It was a weekend where the contenders got off to good starts. Barcelona, aided by a virtouso performance by Samuel Eto’o, won their match against a beleaguered Osasuna team. Osasuna look very frail this time around, they do miss the presence of ex-coach Javier Aguirre who defected to Atletico Madrid, a club with loftier ambitions. The 3-0 scoreline was well deserved and seeing Leo Messi run circles around defenders is an ominous sign for all the other challengers. Speaking of whom, Real Madrid finally turned on the style with a thumping 4-1 win and I must say, it bodes well for the league. Last year was a bit farcical. Even when Barcelona showed weakness, no other team looked like taking up the gauntlet. This season looks different already. Elsewhere, Aimar scored his first goal for Zaragoza in a three nil victory for his side against struggling Espanyol.

Result of the weekend:

Atletico Madrid 0- 1 Valencia. It was the biggest game in spain in the weekend and Valencia cemented their desire to challenge for the crown with this well worked win at the Calderon. Torres was sent off in the match but Valencia did enough to earn this win. Although Jaqouin sat this one out, You can expect him to play a big role next week.

Performer of the weekend:Ruud Van Nistelrooy (Madrid)

Van the Man was on song for Madrid with a wonderful hattrick. Although his old club doesn’t seem to be missing him, Madrid fans have taken a liking to him already. Doesn’t look like a false dawn for Madrid, but bigger tests ensue in the league season.

Verdict:

Early days yet. But Sevilla look very strong and may make me regret not tipping them as serious contenders. They beat Sociedad away with a 3-1 scoreline. That puts them top of liga. Solid team, despite so many high profile departures in the last few years. Madrid’s revival is on the cards and Becks and Ruud connecting to good effect was a pleasant sight for forlorn Madrid fans, who have been starved of good football for the last three years.

-VÂ

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