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Real Madrid storm into title round

Last Updated 17 December 2014, 17:48 IST

European champions Real Madrid turned on the party tricks as they sailed into the Club World Cup final by crushing Cruz Azul 4-0 on Tuesday.

The Mexican side, with far more limited resources than the Spanish giants, did their best to make a game of it and missed a first-half penalty but were chasing shadows from the moment Gareth Bale headed the third goal five minutes into the second half.
Sergio Ramos and Karim Benzema were on target in the opening half before Bale and Isco completed the scoring as Real received fanatical backing from the Marrakech crowd.

Cristiano Ronaldo failed to get on the scoresheet but had the crowd in raptures in the second period when he met a cross on the half volley with a 'rabona' effort that goalkeeper Jose Corona did well to save.

Real, however, left themselves open to criticism for excessive showboating and even the initial enthusiasm of the fans died down as the game went on.

They next meet South American champions San Lorenzo or Oceania champions Auckland City, who face each other on Wednesday, in Saturday's final in Marrakech.

"The game was still open at 2-0 with the penalty but we didn't concede and it was an efficient performance from us," Real coach Carlo Ancelotti told Spanish television.
"Ronaldo didn't score but he is always there helping the team and creating chances."
Real quickly took control against the CONCACAF champions and an early goal was on the cards.

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(Published 17 December 2014, 17:48 IST)

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