Kicking about in Madrid

DAY 1
Upon landing in Madrid and meeting their designated tour representative, the group kicked off their adventure with a visit to the Riyadh Air Metropolitano Stadium to watch a thrilling La Liga match between Atlético Madrid and Celta Vigo. The game ended in a 1-1 draw, with Atlético going down to 10 men just 6 minutes into the match. Despite conceding a controversial penalty in the second half, they fought back to secure a point. The atmosphere in the stadium was incredible and unlike anything the students have witnessed before.

DAY 2

After a hearty breakfast, the group embarked on a coach journey to Torrelaguna to face CD Torrelaguna Villa in the first girls’ match of the tour. The game was tightly contested, with both teams creating very few chances. In the end, a single goal decided the outcome, and unfortunately, it went to the hosts, who scored with just 10 minutes remaining. Martha was named Player of the Game, while Hermione earned the Coaches’ Player award for her outstanding performance as goalkeeper.

In the afternoon, the group returned to the Riyadh Air Metropolitano Stadium for a behind-the-scenes tour. They explored the stadium and museum, had the chance to go pitch-side, visit the dugouts, changing rooms, and the press room, and even took a trip to the club shop. To wind down after a busy day, the group enjoyed a fun evening of bowling – ready for the boys’ teams to have their turn on the pitch the following day.

DAY 3

Today, the teams headed to Getafe where our U15 boys faced off against the Madrid Euro Soccer Academy. After a hard-fought 1-1 draw with Atletico Bilbao Academy in their previous match, we knew the competition would be tough. It was a valuable learning experience, especially for the younger players, who were up against physically stronger opponents. The boys should be incredibly proud of their performance and the effort they put in!

After the game, the group travelled to central Madrid for an unforgettable stadium tour of the Santiago Bernabeu, the iconic home of Real Madrid. Sitting in the legendary stadium and exploring the club’s rich history in their museum was an experience none of the boys will forget.

Following the tour, the team returned to the hotel for lunch before heading out again for the U14 boys’ match against CD Torrelaguna Villa. Later, the U15 boys traveled to EMF Villarejo for an evening game under the lights. Despite already playing earlier in the day, the team showed great determination, but unfortunately, tired legs led to a 3-0 loss.

DAY 4

Day 4 began with an early start and a hearty breakfast at the hotel before heading to the impressive Real Madrid Training Complex. After arriving, the students changed into their Real Madrid training kits and were split into two groups for 90-minute coaching sessions. One coach currently leads the Real Madrid Women’s B Team, while the other works with the U16 girls’ team. The sessions focused on ball retention, transitions, as well as various shooting and possession drills.

Following the training, the students returned to the hotel for lunch. Later in the afternoon, the girls headed out for their final match against CD Molareno. From the beginning, the girls displayed a much more positive attitude. Their confidence grew when Elisa scored a stunning long-range goal. Despite some strong goalkeeping from the opposition, Liv doubled the lead just before halftime. In the second half, Martha and Florie added to the scoreline, securing a 4-0 victory and ensuring the girls finished their matches on a high note. Elisa was named Players’ Player, while Isla earned the Coach’s Player award.

Meanwhile, the U14 boys played their final match at EMF Villarejo. The first half was tightly contested, with the score at 1-0. However, the second half saw a shift as the hosts took advantage of several rotations in the LP lineup, ultimately scoring multiple goals.

Tomorrow promises another early start with the final training session at the Real Madrid Training Complex, kicking off at 8:00 am.

DAY 5

An early start to the final morning in Madrid, reading for raining at Real Madrid CF! Free time was then enjoyed in Madrid before heading to the airport for a safe journey home. An incredible football tour that provided the students’ with fantastic opportunities to build on skills, game play and most importantly experiences that will last a lifetime!

You can see more photos from the trip in our online gallery.

Find out more about football as one of our core sports at Leighton Park!