I will post here the interviews with iker and we will discuss about them

"Real Madrid has taught me many values"

Iker Casillas was the special guest on Spanish television station La Sexta's new program, 'Habitación 623,' hosted by Olga Viza. The Real Madrid goalkeeper was asked a series of questions by various people that included Iker's brother Unai Casillas, Arantxa de Benito, Pipi Estrada, Enrique Cerezo, Manuel Amieiro and Trinidad Jiménez.

Are you shy?
Very! I have difficulty opening up to people. Once I've gained some confidence, I let myself go.

How does a football player become a star?
Of course a star has to be great on the pitch, but you also get to know players other ways: the press, television, commercials, etc. Someone who plays great football is a star, but he also has to have everything else. Beckham is a great example.

Does your personal life affect the way you play football?
Of course. We're all human and we have our weaknesses.

How do you celebrate when you win?
I make a fool out of myself and I don't worry about.

What did you think about when you went to training sessions with the first team in your Renault 19?
I was fine with it, but it clashed with all the nice cars. I was too happy to even care.

What do you do after losing?
I go home and don't want anything to do with anyone. I lose myself.

What do you do with your gloves after matches?
I save them for the next match until they tear.

What's your relationship with the press like? Have you learned anything from them?
They can tell you a lot. It's hard for a football player to be friends with a journalist, but I don't have anything to hide from anyone. I've been friends with journalists since I started in the Under-16 League.

What was the first thing you bought when you had enough money?
I bought a house for my parents and a car for myself.

What Atlético de Madrid player would you like to act in a movie with?
I get along with the whole team. Fernando Torres, Pablo, Antonio López, any of them.

What do you think about Atlético de Madrid fans?
We have the best fans so why would I want other ones? That said, Atleti has great fans.

Is your character based on the values you have learned since starting with Real Madrid when you were small?
Absolutely! It's been the philosophy that I've been taught since I first began. I've learned many values. I've learned that many people depend on my performance, for example. I feel sorry for the thousands of fans when we lose.

What are your thoughts on all the years of hard work and dedication?
I have to be thankful because I'm here today thanks to that hard work.

You're very committed to your city.
That's correct. I like to remember my roots. It's about helping those kids from my town so they know that hard work pays off and they can do anything they set their minds to.

You do realize you're many people's idol, don't you?
I know there are lots of kids that look up to me and it makes me really proud. When they have their pictures taken with me, I put my hand on their heart and it's beating so fast.

Are you embarrassed when you get scored on?
I get mad, not embarrassed.

www.realmadrid.com

How sweet, how lovely, how adorable!!!!!!I LOVE HIM!!!!he's so smart and handsome!!Every day I love him more!He said his fans are the best!!!yeee!!!I knew it!we're the best for Iker!!!And he said he is shy!How cute!I am shy too! :P

"It's win or win this Saturday"

For the fans, for the players, who want to get even after the Bernab�u match, and to secure the second position in the charts. Among others, these are the three motives that compel Iker Casillas to finish the game at the Camp Nou having pocketed the three points. Both him and the remainder of the squad are dying to win.

What did you think of the Benfica-Barcelona match?
:: Barcelona absolutely dominated Benfica. They had a lot of very clear scoring chances. Barcelona proved it's a great team and that they're a serious candidate to win the Champions League. Benfica's goalkeeper did a really good job. It's 0-0 and I don't think they'll have any problems winning at home. But what I'm really interested in is in winning on Saturday. Fatigue can be a factor when a team plays Wednesday and Saturday, but I think they are quite used to it.

Saturday can help to clear things up, whether positively or negatively for Real Madrid.
:: We're realistic. Our goal is to win at the Camp Nou to distance ourselves from the teams which are fighting for the second position. So, it's a question of win or win this Saturday. If they defeat us, they will almost certainly be League champions.

Would a win there make up for the season?
:: Not at all. We want to win for us and to pocket the three points.

Do you also want Barcelona to lose always?
:: I'm a Madridista since I was a little kid. I wish them all the best, but it's obvious I want them to lose. I have friends there so I respect the club. It's a very healthy rivalry.

Do you think their supporters might stand up and give you an ovation if you play a great game?
:: I don't know. We'll have to wait and see. Nobody applauded us during the Champions League encounter four years ago. If we play well, then great, but if we don't and we win, that's also great.

Against Deportivo you proved that when there's a will there's a way.
:: We've had good and poor games. Now you think of the points you lost at home. League championships have to do with regularity. When you play a game, it's always the player that is judged and not the person. Many things are taken into account when you play a team sport.

Logically, the same starting eleven as Deportivo will feature in Barcelona... and that means no Ra�l.
:: Competition for a position is a good thing, but the coach has the final decision. I'm sure that whoever features will be extremely motivated.
Eto'o is always very motivated against Real Madrid.
He's really progressed as a player. I understand him. His style of play really suits Barcelona, since they play really fast. Both him and Ronaldinho are in top form at the moment; it's something that's easy to see on TV. I'm not bothered by the fact that he always scores against me as it doesn't affect me that Torres never does.

How should you play against Barcelona, on equal terms or somewhat more defensively?
:: I like the team that plays every one of our games.

Are you thirsting for revenge?
:: It could be a revenge, because we are hurt after the 3-0 at home and the impression we left on the fans. But then you realise it's just another game.

There's two teams, but maybe no referee.
:: I respect the referees' position. They have the right to demand their pay. Talking things through normally solves them.

Has the ad you did with Ronaldinho improved your relationship with him?
:: Our relationship has always been good. Outside the pitch we almost never talk football.

What do you think of Figo's declarations about Real Madrid?
::I respect all opinions, so there's little I can add. But we have to look ahead. The past lies behind us.

www.realmadrid.com

On 30th March, Iker took part in some chat in AS.com. He has said the following message and answered these questions:

"Much thanks to everybody who have been at the other side of the chat, I hope I have answered to all of your doubts and I hope I'll see you here soon.
We'll try to make a good show on Saturday and to win the match.
Hugs."




- What you feel when Eto'o scores to you? He is the forward who has put you more goals. (Enric)
:: It is clear that when Eto'o puts a goal to you, or whatever, it bothers to you. With Samuel I do not have any problem, he tries to do his work and I do mine.

- Who is the soccer player who more respect gives you when you have it ahead? Who is the one that better kick penaltis? (Iker2)
:: There are many, from Henry to Ronaldinho, etc. I think that the one that better kick penaltis can be Villa, of Valencia.

- Iker, you are greatest. A result for this Saturday? I vote to give back them the 0-3. (Mori)
:: It is going to be difficult... 1-2

- Hello crack! I am from Barça, but I think you are the best goalkeeper in the world without a doubt. You discard to the 100% the possibility of playing some day for Barça? (Nato)
:: Man, we can't discard anything, but it would be very very difficult... I am glad that people of Barcelona appreciate my work, it is a pride.

- How does it influence on you the encouragement or the critic of the public when you are on the field? (Francis Martorell)
:: It was in the beginning when it hurt to me most, I was younger; but the experience that I am having makes me take the things with much more tranquillity and maturity. I always accept a critic, as long as it is with respect.

- Hello Iker, how do you think that the midfield of a team must be structured if they want to beat Barcelona in their field? (Futbolero)
:: Balanced. Barça handles the midfield very well, they play from the back, they have fast people upfield.

- Hello Iker, how do you prefer to face the match against Barcelona, dominating or playing the con? (m30.gol)
:: I prefer to dominate thematch and to know very well when you must play the con, when you must defend; I believe that that is the most important, although I know that to suffer and to win is also worth.

- Do you see yourself training Real Madrid when you finish your career as a player? (Luis)
:: I have not thought about it, but if I say the truth, yes I would like.

- Do you think that the soccer players have a social responsibility due to the salary you earn, in the sense of being a good example in charity matters? (Lex0807)
:: That is the will of each one, not because you are soccer player you must make those charity deeds. That goes in the responsibility of each one, either soccer player, carpenter or fireman...

- Do you think that the performance of a team depends more on the coach than on the will of the players? (Marugenia)
:: I believe that it depends on the players, who are the true protagonists of a football team; the coach can give you a little of his ideas, but then it is us who must put them into practice.

- Hello Iker! Now that you already know how success and failure feels (as a team). Which has been your greatest joy? Which was the worst moment? (Ramon Forte)
:: My greatest joy was the World Cup in Japan and Korea, and my worst moment when I lived the two lost finals of Copa del Rey with Real Madrid.

- Which player would you sign right now for Real Madrid? (ikercasillas1TK)
:: Difficult question. I think that right now with we have a great team, but the matter is that we have not worked. All the players here are good.

- Which has been the goal that has been put to you that you remember with greatest frustration and sadness? Which has been the save that you remember with greatest joy? (Germán Campos)
:: Perhaps in the season a 2001-2002, a semifinal against Bayern, goal by Elber, we were 0-1 and it left us outside. All the saves, almost always, are good.

- Hello crack, before nothing else, good luck for Saturday. My question. It is clear that being a soccer player for Real Madrid has given much to you in this life, and I suppose that almost everything is positive. But please, answer this sincerely, have you ever felt exhausted of everything included in being a soccer player for Real Madrid (responsibility, fame, etc...) and have you wished to return to your "old" way of living? Come on. (Jaime)
:: Everybody always misses what they do not have, and it is also true that when I was not a football player I thought about being it, and now that I am, I often wish to be calm at home and to go out in the evening and that nobody recognizes me. But I am been thankful because it is what I like.

- Hello fellow! I am also from Móstoles and of Real Madrid and believe that, aside from being the best goalkeeper in the world, you are the one that has greatest future career, given your age. Do you sincerely think that you will retire in Real Madrid? (SiRo Mostoleño)
:: Yes, of course, that would be my hopes, since I began here with 8 years old and I would like to retire in this team.

- Hello Iker. First of all, tell you that you are the best in the world. I love your game and mainly your way to confront the "hand by hand". Outside soccer are you also a handyman? Do you have some hobby apart from your profession? Thanks phenomenon. (Paco Miranda)
:: The truth is that I am not a handyman, I still should wise up. As any 24 year-old boy: to enjoy his people, with his friends...

- Iker, do you think that the time of some players in Real Madrid has finished? Beckham, Raúl, Ronaldo, Roberto Carlos, Míchel Salgado, Helguera... (cucho)
:: It is not that their time has finished, simply fo the past three years we have not been as good as other teams that have been phenomenal. But no, there are people with still much soccer left.

- Good morning champion, my question is: do you think that Fernando Martín is able to obtain just as much as Florentino Pérez obtained? In my opinion, Florentino's departure is going to be a hard misfortune in Real Madrid's performance. Thanks and answer, please. (murcianico)
:: It is necessary to give some time to people. When Florentino arrived, in the beginning, not everything was of pink colour. It is necessary to give some time and tranquillity above all.

- Do you sincerely think that you are the best goalkeeper in the world? (Sergio león)
:: No, I think that neither I am better nor worse than anybody, I have my style and that's all. That is something that should be judged by people, not me.

- Would you go someday to Barça? (Alicia Barreiro Cambeiro)
:: It would be very difficult to change of air. Here I feel very comfortable and very well.

- I have never felt so identified and thankful at the same time with a soccer player as when you went to hit that corner in the last minute. What did you think then? Iker, thanks for your madridismo, players like you or Sergio Ramos make that madridistas as us still feel proud. (Jesus Álvarez)
:: Then I thought about trying to make a landmark, but I knew that it was also very complicated. I believe that I went more with the heart than with the head.

- Hello Iker, you are a phenomenon, I have always admired you. You are an example for everybody. How is the classic against Barça? Do you make some special preparation for this type of matches? Good luck for the match on Saturday and Liga can be won. (Chimpu)
:: It is going to be a vibrant, difficult match and in which we risk assuring the second position. I don't try to be more concentrated than usual, because it is a match that is going to be watched by many people. Thank you very much, that we hope.

- Which coach would have to be in Real Madrid for next season? I would prefer Capello, and you? And do not tell me that yours is Lopez Caro. It is known that he won't stay¡¡¡¡¡¡ (arkan)
:: Although it is known that he will not stay, I think that he is making things very well. I would bet for Lopez Caro.

- Do you think that there is any midfield player with more future than Cesc? Is he ready to be able to play in Real Madrid? (MEDINA DEL CAMPO)
:: I think that the career that he has is very good and it is clear that any player who arrives at Madrid gets hardened. Example, Sergio Ramos.

- Hello Iker, do you have any particular superstition when you play in the Camp Nou? (javi)
:: No, any, like when I play in all the fields. It is clear that it is a field that impresses much, but I behave equal in it as in so many others.

- Would you like that Barça or Villareal win the Champions? (Jokin)
:: Man, yes, that they arrive as far as possible and that in that sense goes to them very well.

- Iker, what do you think of the rumors that locate Buffon in Real Madrid next year? Thanks. (derechos)
:: In Real Madrid there are always rumors of all type: of people who leave, who come... It is normal, Real Madrid is a great team.

- What do you think of Cesc? Don't you think that, given the good result that Spanish people is giving, Real Madrid should sign up spanish players? The last great signing which I saw Madrid did was Ramos. Cheers, stay this way, madridistas are proud of you. (Luis Pinheiro)
:: Cesc is a young boy that still it has to go blunt, but that the progression that he is having is very good. Of course, I love that Spanish players are signed, because I am for Spanish players. A strong hug.

- In a round of penalties, where do you suffer the most, in the bench or at the goal? regards and just tell you that you are the best! (VICEN/ BEJAR)
:: More in the bench. A strong hug.

- To what extent are the individual concentration and the unity of the group important in a sport like soccer? Have been the lack of ambition and confidence the weak points of Real Madrid for the last seasons? Good luck on Saturday. (madridista100%)
:: Just like a chain of a bicycle: if a pinion is broken, all the chain is broken. I believe that many more things have influenced, but it also may be the lack of ambition and confidence. Thank you very much.

- How is your relationship with Ronaldo? Would you say that he is a colleague or a friend? You are the best! Regards and hala Madrid. (Antuan)
:: Very good. He is more a colleague. It is like in every job, you always get on better with one than with another one, but at least there is a relationship.

- What do you think that must be changed in Real Madrid? (benji toldo)
:: I do not know, if I say the truth I do not know it. I am sorry, but I do not have any idea.

- Why is it that at some days you paly so bad, and other days, like the match against Depor, all the players played so great? (seba)
:: Because there are also days when we play bad, and other days when we play good. We cannot have a regular line, we cannot play all 38 matches good.

- Hello Iker, does the word "galáctico" bother you personally? How do you see it? (carlos)
:: It seems to me that it has been something by the press, more than anything, and it is clear that it has not made good to us. But well, we will try to remove that word.

- Do you think that Barcelona will beat Benfica, given the great game they did the other day? Go on Iker (rogelio15)
:: I believe that they made a good result: they did not conceed goals out, they created many occasions for goal, and at home they have everything to their favour.

- What do you prefer, a Champions final or arriving at World Cup semifinals? A hug Iker. (Madridista)
:: Uf! Man, from the two - I'm not sure, World Cup semifinals.

- Who is your best friend within the white team? (Alberto)
:: Almost all the players, I cannot tell you anyone because then I would lie.

AS.com

Casillas: It would ask a bit more to get the little dialogue with the referees"

Nobody doubts that Iker Casillas is the best goalkeeper of Spain, and many think that of the world. The goalkeeper of Móstoles was one of the speakers of the Luis de Carlos Forum, where he gave his forecast for the finals of the World Cup 2006, "Spain - Germany".

Who is the favorite for the World Cup?
:: Brazil is among the four or five favourite teams. But Germany comes last and is the host. But if I have to bet, evidently it will be my team that is Spain.

Is it not sad that in Barcelona - Real Madrid the majority of the important players are not Spanish?
:: Eversince all of the important players come to our league. Some are great and we are delighted to see them in our teams. Perhaps the national player suffers much more, but those players that come to the National Team have minutes (played) and confidence.

Would you like referees of high level?
:: I believe that the refereeing in Spain is good, they mistakes like everybody. But if it was for me, I would like more than a dialogue, that they are not so stiff and inaccessible. There are three or four referees that you can talk to. They'll tell you that they whistled because they have seen it this way. In itself, it may be wrong, but at least you get to see that the what the referee means good.

Do you see Raúl in the World Cup?
:: Yes, clearly. I am delighted because he is my colleague and a very important player.

Do you dream of getting the Zamora this year?
:: Its clear that it is a beautiful trophy and that a lot wants to win it. I would prefer to try to win other things. Being the goalkeeper less beaten means that you have done your job well, but it is a labor of the whole team. That will be to the best team.

Do you feel that you are at your best moment?
:: Yes, I am in an good moment and I feel that each day I go futher. I am 24 years old and each day that passes I grow and I find myself getting better. Little byt little the things are going to arrive and at the personal level a moment arrives where you see that you are no longer that kid who debuted at 18 years of age.

Was the game at the Nou Camp your best match?
:: No, we have had better, where we have won without conceding and goals. When you concede a goal, although its a penalty, you didn't have the best game.

These with the Aragonés in which he says about those concentrations?
:: I do not like them, and I believe that the height of the concentrations are damaged. Whena team plays a lot of competitions, the player needs air. I would bet on my own house.


Translated by Iker-Spain Team
www.realmadrid.com

IKER CASILLAS: “It was a combination of everything. Outside the box with one of their players close by...That was the moment. The first yellow was from arguing, but the second was just part of the game. Madrid has won with and without Casillas. We're a bit more relaxed, now that we have the goal-average advantage. We have to set our sights on Valencia. When playing for a spot in the Champions League, you don't remember a thing. All you think about is winning. It's a hard stadium to play in. They move the ball forward a lot and they can really turn things upside down with their foul shots.”
“The team responded and our defense played really well. I'm happy that I was able to stop the penalty. It boosts my confidence. Finishing second would be practically impossible if we drew or lost. It was a key moment of the game, but as much as anyone says, stopping a penalty is pure luck. I'd rate the team a 10 out of 10; from Raul to the very last player. We were phenomenal. I hope people recognise the effort we put forth. The Racing match is extremely important. They may relax too much, although they need to win to avoid relegation. The Osasuna - Valencia match closes out the season, and we need to be there with as much distance between us as possible to not have to depend on anyone but ourselves.”

www.realmdrid.com

"I just want to thank Zidane for the moments he has given to me"

Much to speak in the press conference offered today by Real Madrid's goalkeeper, Iker Casillas. In first term, words of praise for Zidane, of whom he has said is “better person than player”. Also, he has spoken about the changes in the board of directors of the Club, saying a message to the future candidates for the presidency: “I hope that the winner does anything for Real Madrid”. But in the mind of all the team only winning in Pamplona is the important matter, but Iker warns: “The atmosphere is always difficult there, even so, we will go into the field and do our best”.

Zidane's retirement
“The team is sad for the departure of the best player, but also because as a person he is even better. It is his decision, he thinks that is the best, and he leaves us in sorrow. We have asked him not to leave, but it is a very thought-out decision; I just want to thank him for the moments he has given to us”.

“This happens to all of us, when you do not get a title you are annoyed, I understand him, but all of us are guilty for not having obtained titles these years”. “Time goes by, now the news is Zidane's retirement, but then the World Cup will come, and the new season, and we must go on, Real Madrid goes on”.

Changes in the Club's board of directors
“It is clear that what we are living is hard to understand, it is normal that the supporters are confused, I am confused myself”. “There have been many changes, many movements, but if it is for the Club's sake, then it is perfect to me; but it is true that so many changes are not good”. “Calling an election is the chosen option, and I hope that the winner does anything for Real Madrid”.

“Three presidents in three months is not logical, but we can think only about Osasuna and must forget anything not related to football”. “We know the new president well, from trips, we will get on with him as well as always, besides the appointment”. “This morning we have not spoken about soccer, he has wished good luck to us and we have spoken about making the maximum effort from now till the end of the season”.

“In Real Madrid, everything is exaggerated for good or bad, we must think about soccer only. Real Madrid is more than a Club... for everything”. “We must face these bad times the best possible way. What happens in the Club is important to me, but I know my role and I am a football player”.

“We players have not won any title and we are hurt because it is not normal with the players that are in this team, but everything influences, and so many changes are not good for the team. But if we do not score, that is our fault”. “Our personal crisis is that we do not win titles, the Club does not go so badly, who does not know Real Madrid...”.

Duel in Pamplona
“We have Osasuna in mind only, we spoke about everything among the team, but we only think about assuring the second place”. “Aguirre is leading Osasuna to fight for important targets, and this year they will be in the fight for an access, directly or not, to the Champions. He has done a great job”.

“There is a difficult atmosphere in Pamplona always, but the match is won in the field, people support as they want, but we cannot think about that. It is a vital match, we must be concentrated and work for the goal average”.

The four finals left
“We risk a lot at the four matches, but also them, Sevilla can be in Champions, Racing's stay in the first division, UEFA for the Villarreal and Osasuna, who is a direct rival; they four will be very complicated but we must try our best”.

Barcelona in the final of the Champions
“Some time ago, we were in three finals, it is normal, if things go well you go to the final. It is necessary to learn of the no good seasons' causes that the good ones come”.

“Difficult final, both are great, fast teams that dominate the ball well, anyone can win it. I wish both good luck because in both I have friends”. “Last night I watched the first part... I feel envious (laughs)”. “Sincerely, if Barcelona wins, it will seem good to me because they are doing it very good, giving example of how soccer should be played. I feel good envy”.

The problem of the calendar
“I want Sevilla to win and go to the final, but this matter of the calendar has to be seriously arranged, above all because people, the international players, must have some minimum holidays, you cannot play on 20th May a match of Liga; the fatigue can be accumulated for the following season, I do not think that is the solution, but we will have to wait”.


Translated by Iker-Spain Team
RealMadrid.com

Haha Vera :lol:
IkeR is adorable indeed :yippy:

He's just Fantastic, Magnificent and Splendid
He's just everything :first:

I'm so pRoud become his fans :D

Casillas: "I sign to play the quarter-finals against Brazil."

Iker Casillas is assured that he would be enchanted if they surpass the first round of the World Cup in Germany, although later have to face Brazil in quarter-finals. "To me, you tell me that I must play the quarter-finals against Brazil and I sign it right now", indicated Casillas, that the condition of favourite recognised whatsoever the title of the from Rio de Janeiro Selection.

"Brazil has been in the last three finals and has won two, so they are the favourites", Casillas pointed out, that were taken hold to the format of a match like this one to lay the foundations their hopes of being able to eliminate the effective chapion in the hypothetical confrontation. "In the World Cup antyhing can happen, you can lose to Korea in penalties, or you can eliminate Brazil", assured the goalkeeper of Real Madrid, who analysed the expectations of Spain considering its historical trajectory.

"We left from the base of which Spain has never won anything in the World Cup so we are not favourites for anything, but we have expectations, by us and the fans, to arrive at the final and to win it. We are going to try to go as far as possible", he affirmed.

Casillas emphasized in addition that the entrance in the team to young ones like Cesc or Iniesta can give Spain a new impulse that allows him to surpass eliminatory that follows first stage, in that historically have been eliminated. "The new ones come from the lower categories and are customary to arrive at the final and can be good because they are people who are used to play semifinal and final", the goalkeeper indicated.

Praises to Raul
Casillas also spoke of the situation about his companion, Raul, who has just got over a serious injury in the knee. "I am with him everyday and I see him as phenomenal. He is working like all, with illusion and desire to make the things affluent and to put the difficult things away from him and the trainer", he emphasized. The Spanish international also analysed the mood of Asier del Horno, whose muscular injury could separate him from Germany. "He is annoyed because it is a great opportunity for any player to be in the World Cup. We trust that he recovers soon and can be with us", he said.

Casillas made these declarations in the Inn of Albacete, where tomorrow the selection faces Russia in first of the three encounters that they will be in before the World Cup starts. "In these three matches that we have it is necessary to try mainly to make a good running. Any result can occur, if desire better but if there are stumbles there is time left to rectify", he concluded.

Translated by Iker-Spain.com
Marca.com

"If we do not go into the World Cup doing our best we might as well remain watching it through the television."

The Spanish selection is the hands, and never better said, of its goalkeeper, Iker Casillas, a regular in Real Madrid.

Spain is in the hands of Casillas. One of the best goalkeepers in the world. In the installations from the La Rozas (Madrid) he is, possibly, the most requested player of the 23 chosen by Luis Aragones. The goalkeeper of Madrid knows that he is a key piece for the good operation of the national selection. Of a team that wants to change history. That dreams of doing somewhat large in Germany. That does not rule out being the champion of the world.

- The selection already is, as Luis wants, a team?
:: Little by little, yes. Each day the most compromised people and the work that we veterans have to do is to try to involve the young ones.

- Coincides that with 25 years recently you are one of the veterans and even, in absence of Raul, the captain.
:: Already, but it is that of the 23 players that there are, only six of us have participated in the World Cup in the past, and the experience that we have must serve the others.

- Is having so much inexperience good?
:: The new ones come from the inferior categories and that can be good because they are used to play in semi final and final.

- And you believe that in Germany they would be able to repeat some of those pleasing experiences?
:: We are mentally prepared to go as far as possible, that is to the end and to win it. Therefore, if you tell me that we are going to play the quarterfinals against Brazil, I will sign it right now.

- Another thing would be to win them.
:: In the World Cup anything can happen, you can lose to Korea in penalties and you can win Brazil. They are the great favourites. They have been in the last three finals, have won two and they are the present champions of the world. Surely that team does things well.

- And Spain?
:: We left from the base of which Spain has never won anything in the World Cup so we are not favourites for anything, but we have expectations, not only by us but by all the fans, to arrive at the end and to win it. We are going to try to arrive possible, but the further the better.

- This message of calm optimism is repeated by the coach and all the players. It is a slogan or they truly believe it?
:: What I have seen these first few days of concentration is that we are going to go one hundred percent. If to the World Cup one we do not give our best we might as well watch it on television. The people who go must think that he is going to do something important with the selection.

- In addition to the attitude, you also have to appeal in some occasion to luck.
:: Thus it is. You have to count on that luck that other selections have in penalties or in a match which you deserve to win and not desire. In the last World Cup it is what Spain needed.

- That one is the memory that you have left of the World Cup 02 (Korea and Japan)?
:: The memories that I have of World Cup have been very good except for one very bad one, that was against Korea and by the referee. We have seen World Cup in that Spain has remained in quarter finals by a precise play. We are going to think positive, and if we make the things affluent, we will have that luck that everybody wants.

- Do you think that you are the best goalkeeper in the world?
:: I am neither better or worse than anybody. I have my style and I prefer that I am the one that people thinks.

- For the players of Real Madrid, it has been a liberation to go to the call of the selection?
:: After the fiasco which we have had in Madrid, right now the selection is very important for us.

- And how you contemplate the presence of Raul and everything that people commented about him?
:: I am with him everyday and I see him as phenomenal. He is working like everyone else, with illusions and desire to make the things affluent and to put the difficult things away from him and the coach.

- In the most tactical aspect, you are lacking the most worrisome goal of the selection?
:: It is certain that to win you must go to the attack and score goals, but without neglecting the defense. In that sense we are doing very well. And in front of Russia we played very fast soccer, to the first touch and creating many occasions. This one line is good.

Translated by Iker-Spain.com
DiarioADN.com

Juan Carlos Ablanedo : "Iker Casillas is the best goalkeeper together with Buffon"

He was one of the best valued goalkeepers during his time, with three Zamora trophies and called twice for two world cups. However, the Gatu still have bitter memories of the two world cup meetings where they met with Mexico 86 and Italy 90 and not have disputed neither a minute defending the goalposts. But Juan Carlos Ablanedo, then Ablanedo II, was always characterised as one of the players that do not make bombastic statements and was always noticeable for his work and humility. Perhaps the humility is the better characteristic and something that his friends from in and out of the pitch have always known to value. Now he is dedicated to his real estate business but he still enjoys football especially with the coming World Cup in Germany that begins this Friday. His favourite team is not far away and could not be another other than Spain that is directed by Luise Aragones.

Is the goalpost better covered with the combined nationals?
:: We have three goalkeepers of the first line. So much like Casillas, as Reina or like Cañizares are players of guarantee and leading the world. It is clear that the first goalkeeper will be Casillas, but Reina and Cañizares also border a great height. The position is very well covered.

For you, the best goalkeeper of the championshio without doubt is...
:: It is difficult to select one but the debate will be centered between two goalkeepers: Iker Casillas and the Italian Gianluigi Buffon. Those two have experience keeping in mind their characteristics, they are the more complete that you can find in the world. There are good goalkeepers but if I have to choose, I will stay with the two.

La Voz de Asturias

Casillas: "If we defend as it is, we will adanve in the World Cup"

At 25 years old, he is one of the most respected goalkeepers in the world and the undisputed player of the Spanish team where he is also the second captain.

Madrid. Iker Casillas will live his second World Cup after the bittersweet experience of the Korea-Japan, where his sweet test was against Ireland during the last eight and the elimination against Korea during the quarterfinals, and assured that "there are reasons to trust in the selection". The madridista is one of the more affable players, one who never avoids conversation with the press no matter how thick his records become. The goalkeeper of Real Madrid attends to the DPA agency while the children behind the fences shouts his name, showing that he is one of the football selections referred to.

"We have to be optimists. We are defending very well and that is one of the keys to advance in the World Cup," he said after assuring that "the goal problem has a solution like was already demonstrated against Egypt". One of the virtues of Casillas is that is he is the eternal optimist and the 20-0 victory from Saturday kept his morale high.

Do you get bored after so many days of concentration?
:: Truly not. The chosen model for this preparation is very good. The city changes and the games allow the contentration more cuts. It is a new model for us and we hope that it will help to change the luck.

But is there no anxiety?
:: Yes, because it is what a player wants, that the World Cup arrives soon. But also we have a one and a half day of free time, that allows us to leave the environment and forget about football for a moment, that is always suitable. The team and the players are noting it.

The three friendlies against worthy rivals is another news...
:: It will serve to prepare us, to polish the defects that we have and to know how we want to play.

Does it cost you to adapt the new scheme proposed by Luis Aragonés?
:: I believe that he has talked much about the system and that is not for us. Certainly it is a new design that we have to use against the Ivory Coast, but I think that little by little, with the friendlies, we'll move ahead. It is only a matter of putting together the men and that is what we will attain before the World Cup.

This is your second World Cup and it arrives in different circumstances from that of Korea and Japan. How do you remember your debut?
:: I haven't forgot. I wasn't playing in Real Madrid and believed that I wasn't going. José Antonio Camacho, the coach, called me three months before and calmed me, telling me that I was going in spite of not playing. I was called, things at the personal level are left well and that signified the point of inflection in my sports career.

What did Spain lose in that World Cup?
:: Everything. We were eliminated by the host in a very unpleasant way, with the referee not calling... Me marked two legal goals. We lost a historic opportunity because we could've faces Germany in the semifinals, and I think that we were more superior to them. It give me kicks each time I remember that one.

And not the second captain of the Selection after Raúl...
:: Yes. How things change in only four years... There are more games and it hasn't been easy to be starting during the last four years.

Do you believe that Spain will respond to this World Cup with some more discreet expectations than the preceding tournaments?
:: Spain responds to this World Cup as covered and that is the correct thing. Up to now we haven't done anything important in the World Cup.

Spain goes to Germany with a team whose average age is 25. Is that positive or negative?
:: Very positive. It is good to give responsibilities to the young so that they feel like men as soon as possible.

What should Spain improve on in the remaining days?
:: The success before the goal, something that we should not worry much because the plays is good and depends only on good luck. We hope that the one against Egypt will be the start of something good.

And what aspect invites optimism?
:: There are reasons to trust the selection. It is a very solid group and we defend very well. If we continue not conceeding goals, it will be the key to advance in the World Cup.

Diario de Sevilla
iker-spain.com

Iker Casillas

"To make people believe, we have to beat every team"

In spite of his youth, Íker Casillas is quite a veteran of the Spanish side. As a matter of fact, in Raúl's absence, he's the Captain armband-bearer of Luis Aragonés' team. One of the best goalkeepers in the world was interviewed today by Spanish sports daily AS.

Spain gives you less work than Real Madrid?
They can't be compared. It's a mistake to think that a keeper feels safer because he doesn't get shot on often. A good cadence of shots helps you maintain your concentration, which is basic during a World Cup, because at any given moment you can lose a game by conceding a ridiculous goal and then, you're out. You have to be on your best wits at all moments.

Truthfully, did you expect such a good group stage, with three victories?
We never thought about that when we got to Germany. We learnt our lesson complete, even though it might sound as a cliché: we're taking it game after game, paying attention only to the next opponent. But we can't hide that we're happy because it's positive to start on such a good footing. It's not that easy! It would have been hard to overcome a bad start, trust me.

And now, France. Would you have preferred another rival?
France are a great side, but so are we. To make people believe, we have to beat every team.


Your experience with Henry wasn't all that pleasant. I'm talking about the Champions League Real Madrid-Arsenal game which you lost 1-0. Titi was the striker.
Yes, I have a negative memory of Henry, at least this year. It was very tough. But this match has nothing to do with the one at the Bernabéu. I hope this time I am the one left standing in the end.

The reigning euphoria and the high hopes of getting far are obvious. Why does this team, then, reject favouritism?
Simply because Spain has never done anything special in a World Cup. It's a good reason. All we've ever done is get to the quarterfinals. We've come to Germany to try to do better. We're aiming at the semis, the final, and, why not, being champions. But we're not favourites.

Can you tell that Spain is more attractive now?
We're a young generation and it seems obvious that people want to see new talents. Somehow, Spain has seen a generational changeover over the last few years and that's always pleasant if there are triumphs.

You speak of a new generation. What do you mean?
For whatever reasons, after the Japan&Korea World Cup the Spanish team was renovated. Things had begun with Camacho, they continued with Iñaki Sáez in the Portuguese Euro 2004 and Luis Aragonés is culminating that changeover now. The team has grown enormously over the last few years and still it is full of youngsters.

Did your life change a lot in the 2002 World Cup?
It was a very strange elimination for all of us. It was right out unfair. We would be speaking of a Spain that would have made it past the quarterfinals had it not been for the referee. But in spite of the negative ending, that championship made me, and other players who are also here, grow quite a lot.

Everyone praises this generation. Is it missing anything to be able to win the World Cup?
The team continues growing, but I think we have it all. Great defenders, high-scoring forwards, playmaking midfielders...

And a great keeper. With lots of experience in spite of only being 25. Does Casillas feel like a veteran already?
Well, actually, yes. In spite of my age, because I'm young, especially for a goalkeeper, I have been playing many years with Real Madrid and I'm already past the 60-cap line with Spain. Behind Raúl, who's the top-capped of all of the ones that are here. I'm proud of that.

It's very far away, I know, but have you though of a retirement age?
Yes, of course you think of those things. Many times, I have told myself that maybe 35 would be a good age to retire.

Ten more years among the elite, then.
More or less. Depending on how I feel.

At this pace, you would break many records, both in Real and in the Spanish team. Do you take account of Zubizarreta's 126 caps?
It's an incredible achievement and it wouldn't be bad to surpass it. But it will be very hard. There are many great stoppers in Spain and it's hard to stay on the top always.

Do you find it harder to do those incredible diving saves now than when you were 19 years old?
Age helps you mature in some aspects of the game, such as trasmitting calmness and confidence or being able to be better placed on goal, but you can certainly feel the passing of time. It's been many seasons diving on the ground and my bones hurt quite a lot. I might not have the same vitality as back when I was 17, but I manage the one I have better.

How about Raúl's vitality? It seems like he's back on the starting team...
Raúl is an essential footballer and an example for all of us. If he doesn't play, he rallies the team, makes us better.

It could be Zidane's farewell match with France if Spain win.
Yes, it's not pleasant to see Zizou step down, but it's obvious that I want Spain to win, and if that marks his last game... But we have to watch out for him. I hope it's not his day.

More potential meetings: Ronaldo in quarterfinals. Do you think that he's doing as bad as people say?
Ronie can score at any moment. I hope things go great for him, except if we face each other during the quarter-final stage.

Could it prove an advantage for you to know him so well from training with him every single day at Real Madrid?
Who knows. It could also be a drawback because he knows me well as a keeper. Let's leave it at: between what he knows of me and I of him, we're even.

Since we speak of Real Madrid, let us know if you're following the elections.
It's my team. How could I not read any news regarding this?! That said, my mind is completely focused on the national team.

Do you have any preferences candidate-wise?
All I hope is that, whatever candidate is elected, members will have chosen the best possible option, the one who does the best for Real Madrid, the one that puts the team and the institution back on the track of wining titles and making people proud.

Would it be fine to start with the World Cup?
Of course. That would also make all Madridistas happy.

www.realmadrid.com

28th July: Gordon inspired by classy Casillas

Hearts goalkeeper Craig Gordon has revealed his inspiration to play Champions League football came from Real Madrid goalkeeper Iker Casillas' heroic performance for the Spanish giants in the final against Bayer Leverkusen at Hampden in 2002.

Casillas, then just 20, came on for the injured Cesar with 22 minutes remaining and helped Madrid to a 2-1 win over the Germans.

He said: "Casillas was fantastic for Real Madrid in the last 10 minutes, making save after save and he eventually won them the trophy. That night proved to me that no matter how old you are, if you are good enough you can play there."

He added: "If you have the right temperament and quality you can play at any level.

"But I can still improve, ask any goalkeeper and they will say the same.

"Ask me in 10 years' time and I will say the same thing, you don't stop learning."

www.soccer365.com

28th July: "Since i was young, me and my friends slipped to the orchards"


ALWAYS with the gloves in position and in the football field. And from his youth, with the crest of Real Madrid in his chest, like a dream of a thousand children all over the world. To find a youth photo of Iker Casillas dressed in another way is difficult because on his own he was the sport's king.

Therefore today it is not difficult to recognize our hero of the day in the photo that accompanies this article, and that we discover is the face of the of the best goalkeepers of in the history of football.

Madrileño from birth but Avila at heart, Iker has always carried a very gala relationship with Navalacruz, his family's town, to where he returns occasionaly and one that keeps the best memories of his childhood. There was always that college and his early training with Real Madrid and there he enjoyed the occasions of the liberty that is not so easy to find in Móstoles the city where he lives with his parents. "We used to always go here during the summer and Christmas", he started to remember with us those not so distant times. Those were the days of total relaxation and absolute joy. And all the time of each day, as Iker remembered, there no one looks at the watch nor are preoccupied by cars or luxuries. "My parents don't have any worry", assured the Real Madrid goalkeeper and of the Spanish Selection, he confessed that he only see his parents then when it was time to eat and before going to bed.

Because if something clearly remains after remembering with Iker those magical summers is that, what he enjoyed more then, and he continues to do to these days, surely, is the company of his friends. With them doing a thousand plans, playing football, what not, although that was not his main occupation. "We sneak out to the orchards to steal something and in the houses that were in construction", he said between laughter.

He goes little to the capital of Ávila. "Only to buy something", he recounts, "but I didn't want anything", he confessed. Because he prefers it to stay and sit on the streets of Navalacruz, that he now steps who became the star of the sport. "Now when I come back something is different, but not the town's people, that I continue to see and treat the same, but the children", he explained. But Iker always has a word for those who approach to greet their idol, like that day as they played in the beautiful town.

Iker reconts that he cannot come up to Navalacruta as much as he wants, but that he does whenever there is an occasion. And he knows that he would be delighted to bring, some day, his own children to the town of his granparents. "I want that they enjoy this, the pastuer, all the tranquility of the place, that is what I remember more", as he said goodbye to us. I hope that it is so.

www.Diariodeavila.es

1st August: Press Conference:

"We want Real Madrid to return to the place that it deserves, to be the European and national reference"


Immersed in a full preseason, the regular goalkeeper of Real Madrid, Iker Casillas, explains in a press conference his impression of the team: "We are very stong; the team now is very deep and it is normal that there are rulings out, but the team is being formed, it will be qualified to snatch the hegemony from Barcelona". The goalkeeper has spoken of the signings, of the possible ones like Reyes, the past like Zidane, and the others like Roberto Carlos.

- Preseason time.
:: Well yes, these are the days to recuperate the physical tone, to suit as all, even the goalkeepers run. A lot of us and it is normal that we have to fight to win for a place in the team, and he wants it that the people go strong, to train to the maximum and to have a lot of competition.

- There have been signing and soon the rulings out will start.
:: This is normal in football for each sesason, the number of the staff is only between 22 and 24 players, right now we are 31 here, more will come and it is normal that there will be players who have to leave.

- Roberto Carlos is one of those who may leave.
:: Roberto continues with us, they always speculate it but the certain thing is that he is delighted to be here; nothing more, it is his decision but he has to speak with the Club.

- Some go and others arrive. What do you think of the new signings?
:: They are three important signings and that maintains more competition for the place; Cannavaro for example, is one of the most important centers in the World Cup, he is a veteran and his experience will help players like Ramos or Pavón; Emerson has also shown it all and Van Nistelrooy will give a lot to the team.

- It is more on signing players than publicity icons.
:: The players that have signed are great footballers but are also icons, we are in the era of marketing, but I believe that an image of a good player is on the pitch.

- Do you see the team as being qualified to confront Barcelona?
:: Yes, I believe that we are at a great level, the team is more internally competitive. Madrid has to snatch the hegemon that it has, it is a great challenge and we want to be return the club to the position it deserves, to be the European and national reference.

- Will there be a replacement for Zidane?
:: Zidane is past already, it is a grief, and more for those who lived with him. Those that come want to do well, the same as the reserve players; I have never lived in a team with such competition.

- How is it with Tancredi?
:: Each coach has a different style, Tancredi is from the Italian school, it is important to learn all, his work squeezes you to be the best that you ca be, and teaches you new things.

- Do you think Reyes is for Real Madrid?
:: Reyes is a great player, I know it from from Selección. He is fast, has a great dodge, but I can only say little, it is the Club that chooses the best player to sign looking at the season.


www.RealMadrid.com

2nd August: Interview with RealMadrid.com:

"It will be our year"

Coming back from the World Championships with the intention of helping Real Madrid in its quest to be on top. He knows that with Capello it will be more competitive, that a hard formation is being formed to surpass, but that without work and without good predisposition it will be very complicated. Iker Casillas is conscious of the pressure that surrounds each year to defend Madrid's goal, but he accepts it bravely.

- Has Iker Casillas arrived with different feelings from the previous seasons?
:: I see it as the last seasons, and if you asked me the same a year ago, I will say the same. We take a few seasons where we had the misfortune of not winning any titles. It will be this season because Madrid has suffered enough. Also, our eternal rival has won the league and Champions League, and we want to put an end to that and to this cycle.

- Do you have a different feeling from the other preseasons?
:: We have a lot of desire. We have seeon the people of adrid with the intention to do well, to win titles and to grow like the players. But the main thing is to make the people happy, to give them happiness and to return to Cibeles. At a personal level I also want to the people of the Bernabéu to be entertained so that they'll come.

- Have you been affected with the changes at the sporting and institutional level?
:: It is clear that what happened last year touched us and that will remain in the club's history. What happened was very strange but we are focusing on the sporting aspect and that is where we focus. We want to win titles and to do things well.

- This summer there have been talks about possible offers for Iker Casillas, how did you live with that?
:: Those are normal situations when you belong to Real Madrid. You are exposed, not only those who may arrive but also that you may leave. To think that you will easily stay is a mistake. Each year you have to please the technical staff, to work and try to improve your image.

- The coach now is Fabio Capello, has he noted your arrival?
:: Partly joking and serious. The people say that it is more smoother than ten years ago! Imagine how it would be then! But to have a new coach each year is noted. Since Vicente - by Del Bosque - with whom we were for four years and won titles, we have had a lot of brief moments. It's logical that now we compare the work of Capello with the previous ones.

- He has spoken of a lot of hard work.
:: Those that had to play in the World Cup didn't enjoy a lot of vacation, but almost two months remain and it is normal that now there will be a more difficult plan.

- This year the preseason is more calm, is it the key for the competition that will occur?
:: That we hope for. Although in a month we will not reach our climactic point. We are growing little by little and in Christmas is when we will have an overload of games, and then will have to climb a mountain on January. Surely this hardwork will help us in the future.

- And if you start to win…
:: Then we will gain confidence. We are going to go lighter if we go well in the different competitions.

- Where are the direct differences of the goalkeepers' coach that you have interacted with?
:: You always note the work manner of each coach, with their method, their form of training. But all try to get the maximum performance of each player.

- Capello has asked you something special?
:: He wants the play to be directed up, while the other years I was asked to leave it to Zidane. It will be the same Iker but because I was asked to play the left side, I will have to do a little more. The coach dictates to remove those.

- Yes it's clear that the defense will have more importance.
:: The signings made have been emphasized for their defensive capabilities. But I've had the statistics for the previous seasons in which we are among the teams with less goals against. Although with Capello's playing form we will be more defensive, but not forgetting the offensive facet. We'll surely have less attacks on our goal.

- New names: Van Nistelrooy.
:: He is adapting well because he knows some Spanihs. He seems nice and besides he knows Beckham from his stay in Manchester United, that will surely suit him well.

- Cannavaro.
:: He was phenomenal in the World Cup and we are going to discover it now.

- And Emerson.
:: We are seeing a lot of him and we know about his conditions.

www.RealMadrid.com

I don't know if translated or not but these (last 4) are all from iker-casillas.net

Casillas to Realmadrid.com



"Every team gives 110% when playing against Real Madrid"

On his hands lies the responsibility of preventing their opponents to score. His challenge today is facing Levante, who are in need of a victory. Iker Casillas is aware that Real Madrid can't afford losing any more points after drawing their first League match against Villarreal. The Whites' goalkeeper told Realmadrid.com that the team has gone to Valencia "hoping to earn a positive result."

The League is back after you played your international matches with Spain. How are you preparing for the match against Levante?
It was tough for us to lose with Spain, but we have to forget that now and focus on Real Madrid. The coach hasn't been able to prepare properly for the match, but we a have rejoined the team wanting to get a good reult.

After starting the League with a 0-0 match agaisnt Villarreal, do you feel obliged to win tonight's match and to convince your fans?
The team is going through a blending process. The new additions to the team have been more notorious than in previous years. The squad has changed consierably and this makes it harder to be in good form as a team. Nevertheless, I think we had a promising start and that we will improve with every game.

It seems this year there is going to be greater emphasis made on defending, that you will be better protected, and that the only thing to really work on is on scoring goals.
We can't make judgements based solely on a single game. Capello obviously wants the team to become a solid defensive block, but it is also true that teams give 110% when they play against Real Madrid, and Levante won't be an exception tonight.

Victory seems essential, especially after Barcelona won yesterday and is now six points away.
Yes, that's true. It isn't good to start the season by drawing a match at home, not even against a great team like Villarreal. A victory is therefore important, especially because the points we lose today could be a problem for us at the end of the season.



Do you think the most dangerous thing about Levante is the fact that their coach, López Caro, knows you well?
I think there's various things that make them dangerous. As I said before, every team makes a greater effort when it faces Real Madrid. The special motivation our opponents have is that they now that they will make the headlines if we lose against them. Playing against us is always special for our opponents.

Capello has said that, in order to beat Real Madrid, your opponents have to play an "ugly game." What do you think about that?
Teams can play against us in many different ways. The important thing for us is to prevent them from winning.

The Champions League starts this week. I'm guessing Wednesday's match is also very important.
Yes, it's very important. It's the first Champions League match and we will be the visiting team. We have to win for two reasons. Firstly, because it's essential to start the Champions League well. Secondly, because last year they scored three goals against us in under 30 minutes. I hope we do the same this year.

I suppose Diarra has been giving you some pointers for the match.
Actually, he hasn't said much. I guess he'll say more after today.

How's Reyes?
Very well and very happy. I think both he and the team are going to benefit with his signing because he plays great football when he is happy.

www.realmadrid.com

Iker, about Sunday night's derby with Atletico:

“It's a good result after playing a man down. It wasn't a pretty first half, but we were doing a lot better in the second until Sergio was sent off. We started out soft, and they scored the first chance they got. Guti was tackled really hard four different times. Raúl really wants to prove he belongs on the Spanish national team.”

He defends the Selection is not in chaos
Casillas: "Joaquí­n is old enough to know what he says"

Iker Casillas, goalkeeper of the selection and captain against Sweden after the absence of Raúl, focused on the feeling of the team after the declarations of Joaquin and said that "he is already old enough to know what he says" and that "he knows that the team is not in chaos and that one comes to try to do things the best possible way".

"It's understandable that he's angry because he wasn't called and he is already of age to say what he wants, but today the support of the people is needed because the only important thing is to win against Swede", the goalkeeper said, who added that "he will return to the selection if the manager sees it fit".

"The national team is above anything else. There are others who are in his situation who have remained quiet and have supported the team, and that I believe is what he needs to do", he added.

About the captaincy, starring against Sweden, he said that "it is more responsibility", but that he will play because of being a veteran.

About the game he said that a victory is very important although "everything cannot be lost is they give their best".

Marca.com
iker-casillas.net

"We have to move on"

Casillas wants to forget about the Getafe match and focus on Steaua



Real Madrid's goalkeeper didn't hold back and recognised that Saturday's match against Schuster's men was “the worst match I can remember.” But Casillas wants to leave the game in the past and is only looking ahead to Tuesday's stiff test against Steaua Bucharest.

Did Capello tell you anything significant after the Getafe match?
We all know that it was a bad game. We didn't play well. We have to move on and focus on the Champions League game. Had the team performerd well, it would be another story.

Was the Getafe match worst than the Lyon match?
I think so. That's more or less how we played. Getafe played very well and controlled the ball, and we weren't in good form. We know we didn't perform well, but we can't dwell on it. We have to think about our next match. The good thing about football is that you quickly forget about games, whether they were good or bad, although they always make headlines at Real Madrid.

You have yet to win at the Coliseum.
We don't do very well on that pitch. We have lost twice and drawn once. Getafe have always played well against Madrid, but I would rather play bad games against Getafe if it meant making our fans happy in the long run. The team will continue to bond, and hopefully it will result in a title.

What are your thoughts on Ronaldo's second yellow card?
It was a bit harsh. He didn't say anything disrespectful, insulting, or threatening. It was just a comment. The referee needs to realise we play a lot of games. There is a lot of pressure and he could have put up with a little more. It will be appealed and it will be up to those who decide.

www.realmadrid.com

Sorry for the lateness of this interview... i just found it

Former Real Madrid striker Javi Portillo (now with Nàstic) gave an interview and talked about the SMS that Iker sent him prior to their match tomorrow. Following is the excert of the interview made by AS with Javi.

Interview with Javi Portillo
"I will pay to play this game and to have a go on Iker"

Is it true that the mythical Casillas has sent you an SMS asking you not to play the game?
:: Ha! Ha! How did you know?

AS is information.
:: Yes, it is true. Iker and I are very good friends.

What was your answer to him?
:: That I dream of putting a penalty goal past him.

AS.com

Casillas press conference

"Lyon and Valencia are two teams that motivate us to play our best"



Last night, Iker Casillas once again had an incredible performance he should be praised for. He talked to the press after this morning's training session. He talked about the victory over Racing Santander, which he says "redeems us from losing against Celta Vigo at the Bernabéu, gives us a little boost for the matches against Olympique Lyonnais and Valencia, and allows us to keep fighting for the top spot of the League."

Yesterday's was an important victory
Our latest performances at the Bernabéu had been disappointing, and we were aware that we couldn't really let go of any more points in home matches if we wanted to win the League. It was important for us to win at home after having lost against Celta. We can now carry on fighting with Sevilla and Barcelona for the top spot of the League table.

Sevilla are looking very strong
I didn't watch their match last night, but I've been told they played very well. Up until three weeks ago, teams were still building up, but now the strongest sides are beginning to stand out. Sevilla is defeating very important teams, showing that they are one of the best teams in Spain.

Racing proved to be more problematic than expected last night.
We knew they were dangerous in set pieces and in long balls over the top, due to the height of their striker Zigic. But, they soon conceded a goal by Ramos and, although they fought hard and had several chances on goal, we managed to take advantage of being ahead on the scoreboard. They put up a big fight, and if they carry on playing that way, they won't have any problems staying on the First Division and even earning a comfortable spot on the table.

Have you spoken to Guti about his red card?
Of course I have. He knows and admits he challenged the player badly, but these things happen. Many things go through your head at moments like those. We will learn to be colder and keep calmer in the future. He simply lost his nerve momentarily.

You had an exceptional performance yesterday, although Capello said it wasn't that great in the press conference after the match.
I honestly don't think it was that good a performance. I think I've played much better in other matches. Yesterday, I only did my job. The coach knows exactly what he's talking about at all times because he sees the match better than any of us.

Are you motivated to play against Olympique Lyonnais and Valencia?
Olympique and Valencia are two teams that motivate rival teams in a special way. Lyonnais beat us the last two times we faced them in their home stadium; if we beat them we could win the first spot on our group table, and we really want that to happen. It will be a good and important match. Valencia have many injured players, but they're still Valencia. Every time we play there there's a great atmosphere. I think that will also be an important match to win because, in my opinion, Valencia will be a strong contender in both the Champions League and La Liga.

Do you think the match against Olympique will really let you know exactly what shape you're in as a team?
Definitely. They are a good enough team to show us what level we're in. We had problems when we played against them in Lyon, but I think we are in much better form now. We'll see what we're really capable of on Tuesday. It's obvious that every team wants to defeat us. My experience on this team tells me that you can never be confident about a match. Lyonnais are a great side.

Do you feel you have a better defense this year?
There's been matches in which I've stood out less. What's important is that teams are having too many chances against us at the Bernabéu, more even than in away games. We must improve on that because we can't allow ourselves to let any more points go in home matches

Casillas press conference

"Beckham is a great professional and a great person who has given his all to Real Madrid"



Real Madrid City was the place to be today. After learning that this will be David Beckham's last season in white, the media were eager to catch everyone's reaction. During today's press conference held by Iker Casillas, most of the questions focused on the Englishman's departure. The Spanish emphasised number "23's" professionalism and charisma throughout the entire Q&A session, as well as pleading for the fans' support and unity.

First things first, have you all spoken to Beckham?
Of course. He told us personally and it's a real shame. Those who know him know he is a great player and a great professional. He has given his heart and soul to Real Madrid. It's been an honour to play by his side because he is a magnificent person. We are all happy for him, but sad at the same time. He's an role model for everyone.

With Beckham leaving, is the Galactico era over?
With the departure of Figo, Zidane, David… many stereotypes will come to an end, but this Club is greater than any one player. Those of us still here want to do the best possible. All we can do is look towards the future.

The era of players who earn the most, the Millionaires Club is also coming to an end.
Whether someone earned more or less has nothing to do with it. I am saddened when a teammate leaves. Aside from earning a lot or a little, they were, and are, great teammates. I am proud that one day I will be able to say that I played with them. We aren't able to avoid what is said outside, but it's important that we stay strong internally.

David is leaving without having won a title.
This season isn't over yet. There are still six months left. We have lost two important matches, but we're not far off the lead. You can't make a big deal out of something that really isn't. People talk when we do well, but even more is said when we are going through a bad patch.

What did Beckham's arrival mean?
It was something unseen on a personal level due to all the buzz and news he stirred. There had been no one like him prior to his arrival that could get the media in such a frenzy. But what I'll remember is everything from an personal standpoint; everything that we shared as teammates. He's a great teammate and a great professional who has given his all to Real Madrid.

Is this the beginning of the revamping?
I'm not the one to decide when the 'cleansing process' begins. But I am sure that every player always gives his best effort. Then it's every man for himself. I know David has a lot of football left in his boots.

Is Ronaldo really needed on this Madrid?
I'm not getting involved in that. He is a great player. He has given, and will continue to give this Club some great moments. Nothing more needs to be said.

Is the team very affected by everything that is going on?
Nothing that is being said is good for a team that is hoping to end a three year drought, but this is Real Madrid. I'm not surprised. We want to win to make the fans, and ourselves, happy. The honour of Real Madrid is the most important thing.

Are Capello's days numbered?
No. The players will always support him. He likes to work hard, do things correctly, and is a natural winner. It may take us more or less time to learn things, but we will back him. His decisions are respected and appreciated inside the dressing room.

Are the players to blame for everything that is going on?
It's everyone's fault when things aren't going well. The team trains hard. We are coming off two bad matches. Our opponents performed better, but it's obvious this isn't that path we want to take. We have to improve in all aspects. I am satisfied with the team's work.

Should people have a defeatist outlook?
We're not doing that badly, so I don't understand why people have these defeatist attitudes. Barça held a ten point lead on us in season's past, and today they are only up by three. Being realistic, any Real Madrid loss in catastrophic.

You have to win against Zaragoza
It will be a complicated match. We understand that our fans want us to react. We just want the match to get here so we can get over our last two defeats. I have also been a supporter so I understand why they want the team to take the initiative from the get go. I am asking for their support and unity, now more than ever. They can rest assured that we will give it our best effort. This dressing room knows how to concentrate on the game despite all the outside commentary.

Does the Real Madrid dressing room reek of alcohol?
I can assure you that no player ever smells of alcohol. We're not affected by what the press says. We come to train and do the best we can. No one benefits from all the speculation. I repeat, I have never smelled alcohol on a player.

Are you bothered by Pedja's claim of drinking?
We're not bothered by anyone from the Club. I answer what I am asked, and I know what goes on. I can also tell you I have never heard Pedja say anything of that nature. It baffles me. The only alcohol I smell in the dressing room is antiseptic.

Casillas on El Larguero

"We have fun again and we are excited about winning titles"

Iker Casillas was a guest on Spanish radio station Cadena Ser's programme El Larguero, where he talked about the current situation at the Club.



How are you feeling?
I'm feeling well and focused on the sporting aspects of the Club, which is the only thing that interests me. Despite having been criticised during the past few weeks, we are in good form. The Club is now stable from a sports point of view.

Do you think this edition of the League showcases poorer football quality?
I don't know. What I do know is that teams have better squads and are better prepared each year. I think they all give more solid performances each season. I think everyone in general has grown tired of showing off and they focus on a strong physical game more than in putting on a show.

That style suits Capello just fine.
We are more concerned about being at the top of the table than anything else. I can assure you that that's more important for us than playing well.

The team has changed in the last few games.
This has been a strange season for us so far. We have players that won't be with us next season and we have been reinforced with young footballers that are very excited about playing. Real Madrid is above any player and the coaching staff make decisions that they think will benefit the team and the Club.

People talk less about you this season.
That's a good thing. It's better for me to go unnoticed. I have focused on training and playing well.

How did last week's meeting with the President go?
He said he was sorry for what he said and we had no problem accepting his apology. I don't have a problem with what he said on a personal level. We must only focus on what concerns the sporting side of the Club. All these things don't really affect us. All we want to do is put an end to our lack of titles once and for all.

The Champions League Last 16 round is close at hand.
I think it's still a long way away. I haven't even thought about Bayern Munich yet. I think the League looks very exciting right now. It will be complicated to win it because it seems many teams will be fighting for the title.

Are you surprised with the crisis Barcelona are currently going through?
Yes, I am. We actually benefit from it.

Are you happy?
Yes, I am. I feel very privileged. Me and my teammates have fun playing again. We have regained the excitement of winning titles. I am more excited now with winning a title than I was at the start of the season.

www.realmadrid.com

Casillas to Realmadrid.com

"Winning against Levante is essential"

Iker Casillas was the guest of honour at the ‘Olaf el Vikingo’ Real Madrid fanclub 16th anniversary event, which took place in Guadalajara, the nearest provincial capital to Madrid. The goalkeeper took a short break to speak to Realmadrid.com and underline the crucial importance of this Sunday's match against Levante and to convey that the team aspires to win La Liga and the Champions League.



Your relationship with this fanclub is quite intense.
Yes, they've always offered me their undying support. I have always been thankful and I said that I would repay them in the form of a dinner.

How was the welcome?
It was fantastic. I'm delighted. I can't complain, really. It is also true that I try to be utterly transparent. I just hope to a pleasant evening and stay close to the Madridista fans.

This Sunday's is an important game.
Yes it is. The favourite teams are within a few points at the top of the table. A bad result would make us trail behind many teams and that's never good. That is why it's important to win. Plus, all our direct rivals have tough matches. It would be important to reduce the difference.

Do footballers get over-confident when they play a team from the bottom of the table?
No, none of that. I still remember the day against Recreativo Huelva. Levante was just defeated four two at home and they're coming here to make amends.

How do you feel?
I'm happy, but I'd rather be less satisfied on a personal level and more on a collective one; the team is the most important thing. Let's hope that everyone's happy by the end of the season. That would make me happy.

Real Madrid have all their chances intact, both at home and in Europe.
You're right. We're up there in the League and we're very capable of winning it. In Europe, we have a complicated opponent: Bayern Munich. Plus, we don't have the home advantage. But we trust our chances. We'll try to win to dedicate it to the fans.

How's it going with the new players?
They're top quality. They're adapting. They're good people.

www.realmadrid.com

Iker Casillas after the game with Levante
“In the second half, we had the ball and a good pile of chances. We were unable to draw because of us and because of the referee too. We cannot give away this many points at home with the League as tight as it is. We didn't have bright ideas and quickness ahead, but we have to keep on fighting. In the back, there's a lot of order and we don't concede goals. The crowd is entitled to think whatever they like , but they need to trust their team and that we can do what's expected of us. We need the support of the fans.



We had some chances but we didn't materialise them. We're upset, but we'll keep on fighting, although I have to say that there were some really controversial calls. Stability would be good for all of us, but I'm not saying that as an excuse because what's important is to create chances and to score. The League is very tight at the top, so we need to keep the faith. There are many games ahead of us, but it really bothers me that we've lost so many points at home.”

We Lacked Ideas Up Front - Casillas

After echoing his coach's words on the referee, Real Madrid goalkeeper Iker Casillas admitted that the attack seemed to be lacking in "bright ideas."



"In the second half, we had a lot of possession, and a bunch of chances," said Casillas after the game. "We were unable to draw because of ourselves, but because of the referee too.

"We cannot give away these many points at home with the League as tight as it is.

"We didn't have bright ideas and speed up front, but we have to keep on fighting. At the back, there's a lot of order, and we don't concede goals.

Understanding the fact that fans were upset, he still made a plea for their support in the face of adversity: "The people are entitled to think whatever they want to after this, but they also need to trust their team, and believe that we can do what is expected of us. We need the support of the fans.

"We had some chances but we didn't convert them. We're upset, but we'll keep on fighting, although I have to say that there were some really controversial calls.

"The League is still very tight at the top, so we need to keep believing. There are many games ahead of us, but it really bothers me that we've lost so many points at home."

Real Madrid were handed a lifeline of sorts with Sevilla and Barcelona were both being held to scoreless draws, but they still dropped into fourth place behind a charging Valencia.

www.goal.com

Casillas Sad To See Woody Exit

Iker Casillas believes that Real Madrid could be a making a mistake by allowing Jonathan Woodgate to leave the club in the summer.

The Spanish club reported that they have agreed to make the England defender's loan move to Middlesbrough permanent, even though the player has denied it.

Despite the confusion, it is clear that Madrid are not set to include Woodgate in their plans for next season and Casillas admits that he will be sorry to see him go.

"It would be a shame if Jonathan left us," the Spanish international keeper said. "You always want to keep great players and he is a great player.

"In the short time he has been with Real Madrid, he has suffered greatly through injury.

"But he has shown a lot of quality as a player. He was getting his form back, which was one of the reasons he went to Middlesbrough. I am sure he will do well wherever he goes."

Woodgate joined Real Madrid from Newcastle United in the summer of 2004 and passed a medical, despite having torn a thigh muscle towards the end of the previous season.

After failing to make a single appearance during his first season at the club Madrid kept faith in the former Leeds United star.

Injuries were to blight his time at the Bernabéu, however, and despite playing a handful of games Woodgate never made a real impact.

When Fabio Capello took over in the summer he gave the England international the green light to return to the Premiership to join Middlesbrough on loan for the season.

The Italian boss had stated that he have used Woodgate next term, but the news that Madrid are willing to push through a transfer indicates that the club no longer want him.


www.goal.com

Target: Betis

"We want revenge"

Iker Casillas hasn't forgotten about the fact that Betis knocked Real Madrid out of the King's Cup. This Saturday, the keeper has his chance for payback when the Sevillian team come to the Bernabéu in League play.



Villar Mir said that he would not appeal the postal vote decision. It's better for the Club, right?
It is good news. The people who are at the rudder of the Club are reponsible for pointing this ship in the right direction. You have to let people work and respect their ideas for the good of the Club.

What did you think of the whole Eto'o situation?
Samuel is a grown man and he knows what he's said and done. I'm not going to judge what he said. I have my opinion, but I keep it to myself. He thought it was convenient to say what he said and that's that, although I don' share the way in which he decided to say things. In any event, he is a good friend of mine.

Could his statements de detrimental to Barcelona?
Well, I think that when the press tag this whole situation as a big problem they are exaggerating. Dirty linen should never be washed in public. He surely has his reasons if he said it publically. There's always been problems in every squad.

Do you see him making his way back here?
That's never going to happen. I agree with Michel's words. This sort of thing is almost impossible: him coming back here or me going there.

Is this all good news for Real Madrid?
It's something for the press to feast on rather than good news for us. Much is being said about the subject, but there are problems in every single squad and that's just the way it is. It's that simple. If Barcelona are bad, we're that much further on the dark side… It's laughable to think that they're in a crisis.

Do you think that the hug between Eto'o and Ronaldinho is insincere?
I know the two and I know it's sincere. What I heard Puyol say sounded sincere at least. But I shouldn't be speaking of Barcelona.

Would it be fair to say that what is going on right now at Barcelona is similar to what you went through a few years back?
Well, it would be very similar to our situation three years back if they started to lose games. If they end up winning the League or the Champions League, there's no basis for the comparison.

Are you looking to get even against Betis?
Yes because many of us had our eyes set on the King's Cup. You really miss being there when you see the final on TV. It's such a different game and such a different battle to be fought. That said, Betis are looking to steer clear of the relegation zone and we have our goals set on the top of the table.

Why are you having problems scoring goals?
Our scoring capacity has declines. You can tell because of the low-scoring matches of late. That said, we have improved heaps defensivey. What matters is that we're up there, fighting for the title. This month will establish the true measure of our possibilities because we play at Atletico's Calderón and Barcelona's Camp Nou.

Who's stronger right now, Bayern or you?
I'd say we're at a par. We fail every time we try to take off. In this type of tie, it's hard to call who will go through. Any team could win. It's one of the most important games we have because it decides if we will still be title contenders.

Why is it so hard for you to win at the Bernabéu?
I don't know. The truth is that we play two good games and then we mess up majorly. We falter at the beginning of matches and then we're really unlucky because we either don't score, we have problems with the referees, our shots get deflected by the woodwork, etc.

Will the fans give you a good welcome?
Sure. We won the last game. Had we lost in Saint Sebastian, it would be worse. But on Tuesday, against Bayern, everyone gets transformed.

Is it easier to win the League or the Champions League?
The League, because it's a regularity tournament. A bad result in Madrid would seriously jeopardise our Champions League chances.

Are you expecting a very defensive Betis?
No. They will capitalise on their chances and they have players who are able to drive the ball and orchestrate swift counters. They will try to win playing their game.

Have you softened Capello up?
We worked a lot yesterday and, so, today's toil was lighter. But he really is keen on organising the training sessions so when we haven't played during the week, the Thursday practice game is less pacy.

www.realmadrid.com

Iker Casillas to AS

"It is time to make a comeback; we can't allow ourselves to make more mistakes"

Iker Casillas is very honest. He knows his team have lost many points at the Bernabéu and he hopes this changes tonight. "We can't allow ourselves to lose more points at home," he said in an interview to AS, "It's time for us to win at home." Of Getafe he said they "work very well and they always have a positive attitude," but he nevertheless bets on his team to win. When asked about Bayern Munich, the keeper said they only think about Getafe right now.



You've got some tough days ahead of you. You will face Getafe, Bayern Munich and Barcelona. Is everything going to be decided this week?
I don't know if the League or the Champions League will be decided for us this week or not. We have important League matches ahead of us. We can't miss at home, but we also depend on how well Barcelona do.
Getafe are a very strong team this season.
Yes, they are. They know exactly how we play. They played very well at the Bernabéu the last two times and they deserved to win points, but we were lucky enough to win both clashes.

There's no room for excuses at this stage. Is it time to make a stand and to do your best until the end of the season?
It's time we stop making mistakes and to know that we must be strong at home because we are losing too many points at the Bernabéu. We must take advantage of the mistakes made by our rivals at the top of the table.



Is Güiza as lethal as they say?
When a striker is going through an excellent moment he can score anything. His name is always in the sport newspapers lately because he's doing things very well and he fights very hard to score goals. Getafe are in high spirits, they work very well and they are in optimum shape. They have a very positive attitude.

You and Abbondanzieri are the keepers with the least conceded goals this season.
Yes. Getafe defend very well. That's where the basis of their game lies. We also do well in the back line, but we fail to score.

Abbondanzieri is a surprise player this season.
He is 34 years old and very experienced. He is teaching many of us a lesson.

What have you learnt from him?I always examine every save that he makes. He comes from Argentina; they do things differently there. It's good to pick up on certain things.

Coming back to the lack of goals... Is there a solution to this problem?
Of course there is. Despite scoring little we are very effective because we win many points. We have to try harder at the Bernabéu in order to make the fans happy. This is the time for us to make a comaback. We are suffering too much in our own stadium, but this is going to change starting with tonight.



Is the team more nervous at the Bernabéu?
No, but we always think we have lost too many points and that builds up a weird atmosphere. The fans will come back to us as soon as we get in the box by playing good football.

The fact that Ramos, Helguera and yourself are the best in the sqaud doesn't say much about the team...
I don't think we are the best on the squad. These things change all the time. Sometimes you stand out above the rest, but that is only circumstancial. I'm very happy with my performances so far, but I think I could do better.

There's been a lot of talk about Schuster this week. Does that benefit the Club?
No. He is a very experienced coach and he will be focused on Getafe. He is very loyal to his team.

What do Real Madrid need in order to play well?
We have to believe we are capable of playing better. We are finding it hard to have a good start to every game. We always seem to counterattack, like in the games against Real Sociedad and Atletico. We must realise that it is also possible to win a match in the first half.

Against Bayern Munich the good half was the first.
Yes. We had a great start and disappeared in the end. We must be more consistent. A Champions League match is different, very special, but we should always be consistent.

Realmadrid.com

Ramos, Casillas, and Higuaín

"Feeling the support of the Bernabéu fans is so important and so nice"

The keeper, defender, and forward all concur that it's time to change chips in order to think about Wednesday's pivotal match against Munich. But they did mention the second half of Sunday's game against Getafe and thanked the fans for their support during the full 90 minutes.


CASILLAS: “We need to go to Munich with cool heads”
“We're playing a lot better on the road than at the Bernabéu. We need to go to Munich with cool heads, to fight for the victory, and to start thinking about Barcelona as of Thursday.”

Casillas Ready To Confront His Nemesis

Iker Casillas is well-known for being a goalie who drives many strikers to distraction with match-saving saves, but today the Real Madrid number 1 will come face-to face with his nemesis again: Samuel Eto’o.

Both have faced each other on opposite sides a total of nine times, during which the Cameroonian ace has rippled Iker’s nets seven times; four for ex-club RCD Mallorca (ironically on loan from the Merengues) and the other tree with current club FC Barcelona.

"I know Samuel very well and he's an amazing striker, but, like any other player who I face, I'll just try to do my job and stop him from scoring. I'm ready for the match as are my team-mates and what happened before is history. What mattyers is what happens today", explained the Merengue man.

There is, however, some doubt as to how things will go between the two today as Samuel is slated for a potential bench start after showing against Liverpool that he may be theoretically match fit but he’s still not back to the ultra-high standards he himself expects.

Some pundits place Gudjohnsen in the number 9’s place to start with, the Iceman having hit home against Liverpool but also having put a few backs up with rather inopportune declarations – although ringing with truth – about a lack of cohesion and self-sacrifice in the Blaugrana ranks.

Rijkaard won’t confirm the number 9 or number 7 as a starter yet. “I see Samuel in good shape, with high morale and ready to play, but we need to move forward step by step and not rush things.”

“It’s a special match and not just for Samuel”, emphasised the tactician when asked about the player facing his ex-club. “It’s not the first time that he’s played against Real Madrid, so there aren’t any brand new feelings, just those of a professional who wants to do a good job for his club.”

With only two matches having finished without Iker having to scoop one of Samuel’s goals from the back of his net,, so there aren’t any brand new feelings, just those of a professional who wants to do a good job for his club.”

With only two matches having finished without Iker having to scoop one of Samuel’s goals from the back of his net, teal Madrid goalkeeper will be breathing a small sigh of relief that the African lion isn’t on roaring form right now…but will he bite?

www.goal.com

"We played a great match; Messi's goal was a real pity"

The players of Real Madrid were proud of their performance at the Camp Nou, but quite upset after Leo Messi's goal in the dying minutes: “We domniated throughout the match; it was a pity.”


IKER CASILLAS

"The draw is quite positive because we played away and against Barcelona, but seeing how the game unfolded, it's a real pity that they equalised in the end.”


“We are certain that this will gove us food for thought for the upcoming fixtures. We don't have to hesitate. We had chances to kill the game, but then again, so did they, especially the last one.”

We’re Losing Respect – Casillas

Real Madrid goalkeeper Iker Casillas believes the club is losing the fear factor that has made them such a great side of the years.


The Merengues drew 3-3 with Barcelona at Camp Nou on Saturday night, but will be kicking themselves after conceding a late goal to a Barca side that played with ten men for over half of the game.


Casillas admitted: "You leave hurt because it would have been a very important victory and for Barcelona it would have been a major blow to them. It was a good chance to show our authority with a blow like that. At Madrid, we have been losing respect.


"It was a good result, away from home. But at 2-3, they score in the 92nd minute. You feel very sorry."

Lionel Messi bagged an amazing hat-trick, with Ruud van Nistelrooy (2) and Sergio Ramos on target for Real.

We’re Losing Respect – Casillas

Real Madrid goalkeeper Iker Casillas believes the club is losing the fear factor that has made them such a great side of the years.


The Merengues drew 3-3 with Barcelona at Camp Nou on Saturday night, but will be kicking themselves after conceding a late goal to a Barca side that played with ten men for over half of the game.


Casillas admitted: "You leave hurt because it would have been a very important victory and for Barcelona it would have been a major blow to them. It was a good chance to show our authority with a blow like that. At Madrid, we have been losing respect.


"It was a good result, away from home. But at 2-3, they score in the 92nd minute. You feel very sorry."

Lionel Messi bagged an amazing hat-trick, with Ruud van Nistelrooy (2) and Sergio Ramos on target for Real.

Casillas press conference

"We can still win the League"

Iker Casillas is a heavyweight in the dressing room and he was very bold in a press conference when asked about Real Madrid's main goal. "We want to win the League," he said firmly. On Sunday they play against Nastic Tarragona at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium and they will do their best to win.



It looks you are determined to win the League, but you are aware that it won't be easy, right?
After our performance against Barcelona there's euphoria in the air. We want to do our best and to recover the fans' excitement. We are five points behind Sevilla and Barcelona and there are other teams fighting for the title as well. We are optimistic again thanks to the match in Barcelona; before, we seemed to have a defeatist attitude. We played very well against Barça and we realised that the game could mark a point of no return for us.

The support campaign at the Club seems strange because you are going to face a team in the relegation zone on Sunday.
I don't think it's strange. Any team in the League can be dangerous. Seeing that we have only won two points at home out of a possible nine, facing Nastic is as important as facing Bayern Munich. We've even dropped points at home playing against teams down to ten men.

You are all very happy with the game in Barcelona despite the fact that you drew.
Of course we are happy; Sevilla didn't win either. We realised we can't make any more mistakes. This League is very strange. All the contenders are in a five or six point range and neither of us seem to ever grab hold of the lead spot. We are preparing ourselves to truly kick-start once and for all and to turn the Bernabéu into a fortress. We want to do things well.

The "Together We Can! Together We Stand!" campaign seems quite artificial.
We would be hipocrites if it were. We are not going to be false with our fans. We may suffer when things don't work out, but they're the ones that go back home in disappointment. Things aren't going well for us at the Bernabéu and we need the support of our fans. We must all stand together to achieve something positive.

Will you benefit from the fact that most of your direct rivals are also playing in other competitions?
Maybe. Sevilla, Barcelona and Valencia are in other competitions and that may exhaust them. We have much more time to prepare for each League game.

Why does the team find it so hard to earn good results at home?
I think it's a problem of mentality. It's as if it was us who got stage fright as opposed to the visiting team. We get nervous and we want to change that. We are more confident now.

Raúl said in an interview yesterday that your opponents no longer respected you.
The Bernabéu was a fortress when we used to win League titles. We have a great opportunity to win 21 points in seven games at home. We must be confident at the Bernabéu in order to shake nervousness off and to make the crowd enjoy themselves. We hope to change things and to be excited as soon as we step onto the pitch.

Is this reaction going to start against Nastic on Sunday?
With all due respect to Nastic, we have to win because of the difference betwen both teams, both clubs and our positioning on the table... We must be very focused nevertheless.

Why react now and not before?
At the start of the season we were into group dynamics of recently past seasons. If we finish the year without any titles we will be very disappointed. We are like every other working person out there; we like to do our job well, and if we don't, we are sad and disappointed.

Sergio Ramos thinks you will win the League.
We all think we can win the League, but we know it will be very difficult to do so. Many teams are in a five point range, which makes this League very different. Winning or loosing one game can drastically change the competition.

Why do you think you can win the League?
The League isn't lost yet because other teams still haven't won it. There are still 36 points at stake and the leaders are only five points ahead of us. We have also won the goalaverage over Barcelona. We can still win the competition.

Have you talked to Fabio Capello about your plans to win the League?
We talk constantly and we the veterans try to get the rest excited. Many of us haven't won anything in four years and others that arrived later than us haven't won anything in one or two. We must get each other excited.

Does Capello also think you can win the League?
Of course. We are all equally motivated. We can win the championship because we still have options, but we mustn't be careless.

Have you become an essential player on the Spanish national team?
I'm very lucky because Luis Aragonés has known me for four years and has seen many of my games and training sessions and has always decided to call me up. He thinks I'm good on the team and that's why he drafts me.

Did you see Palop's goal?
I'm very happy for him. Goalkeepers going up to the area to try to finish off a corner kick are a bit crazy because it doesn't work many times, but he scored and his goal made Sevilla go through to the next round.

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