In case you missed it – Madrid vs. Espanyol [2010-02-06].

Just as I decide to start writing about the canteranos, as several of them are getting called up for games, Pellegrini decides not to call up any for the game against Espanyol…

So the game saw another fantastic effort from precisely an ex-canterano, El Pirata!  He was brilliant, and certainly made a case for him to be regularly included in the starting line-up.  Speaking of starting line-ups, this was the first time that Madrid had repeated a starting XI this season!  In jornada 21!

Other notes:  I loved the Marcelo-Iker kiss at the end of the game (my favorite moments of games are always those that happen before and after the game), am so happy for Pipita – what a return!, and am disappointed that Sergio did not celebrate his goal with the removal of his shirt, or at least, somersaults.  As for the actual goal celebration, yeah, I didn’t understand it either.

More screencaps for your enjoyment!  See why Iker should banish undershirts from his wardrobe, how intricately layered Sergio’s hair is, and a very happy Pipita!