Spanish Papers Belittle Milan & Real Madrid

The Spanish papers have reacted negatively following Real Madrid's 1-1 draw with Milan in the Champions League on Tuesday.

Blancos coach Manuel Pellegrini risked the wrath of the Iberian media, but they gave him the benefit of the doubt following last week's shambles at Alcorcon. As for Milan, they were criticised.

Marca's paper edition lead with the headline: "Much Better",  and their website echoed that with "A Point Of Improvement".

The article then went on to summarise a work in progress: "Real were better in the first half, but failed to close the game."

However, AS were less forgiving. They heckled Los Merengues' second half display.

They opened with: "From Gold In The First Half, To Mud In The Second".

"Real Madrid's best show of the season (only for 45 minutes), then it was spoilt in the second period.

"Neither Milan nor Madrid can have any hope of winning [the trophy] unless they improve."

Spanish journalist Alfredo Relano is likely to cause a storm of protests after claiming that the team plays better without Raul.

An extract from his editorial reads: "Real played their best football without Raul. [Karim] Benzema was something else."

Barcelona based Sport showed no mercy. They basked in Real's failure to obtain maximum points at the San Siro.

"Real Complications In The Champions League", lead the Catalan daily. As for the Italian side: "Milan Were Disappointing."

El Mundo Deportivo's headline appears to imply collusion between Real and Milan because of the good friendship between Adriano Galliani and Florentino Perez.

"Madrid Receive Help Once Again."