La Liga Week 2 Standings & Table: James Rodríguez Shines for Real Madrid in Win, Barcelona Still Perfect
Real Madrid was by far the most disappointing team in Week 1 after they drew a 0-0 tie with Sporting Gijón. With new coach Rafael Benítez in place, panic began to set in after just one week of play.
Real Madrid once again faced a team from last year's secondary division, Real Betis, and they got a much needed victory. Real Madrid absolutely thrashed Real Betis 5-0 to pick up their first win of the season. Cristiano Ronaldo was held scoreless, but it was the Colombian superstar James Rodríguez who showed up for Real Madrid in spectacular form.
After scoring in the 39th minute of play to make the score 2-0, Rodríguez opened the second half with possibly the goal of the year. Rodríguez tipped the ball up in the air after a teammates shot attempt, then did an acrobatic bicycle kick to score an amazing goal. That strike made the score 4-0, and Real Madrid never looked back. After that incredible goal, "James Rodríguez" and "HalaMadrid" were immediately trending on Twitter worldwide.
As for Barcelona, they once again picked up three points in a 1-0 win over Málaga. This time Barcelona won at home. An unlikely player scored the lone goal for Barcelona in this one. Defender Thomas Vermaelen lit the lamp in the 73rd minute of play for the only goal of the match. Although Barcelona has only scored two goals this season thus far, they have yet to concede even one. Claudio Bravo is picking up right where he left off as the best goalkeeper in the league.
Real Madrid will play Espanyol next weekend.
Neymar was also back in action after a two-week absence with the mumps. The Brazilian has been in rumors with Manchester United, but has since dismissed any possible transfer.
Atlético Madrid also picked up a huge win over Sevilla on Sunday. Atlético Madrid is one of four teams to have won both games so far, collecting all six points. Atlético Madrid is expected to be in contention with Real Madrid and Barcelona this year for the La Liga title. Antoine Griezmann leads La Liga with two goals so far, tied with Roberto Soldado of Villarreal. Valencia, who has one of the best defenses in the league, once again tied. Valencia was a surprise team last season, but too many draws held them back from competing for the championship.
Barcelona and Atlético Madrid will face off next weekend in the game of the week.
Barcelona and Real Madrid have scored a combined seven goals, but not a single one has come from Lionel Messi or Ronaldo. Barcelona's defense has looked much improved since their disappointing Spanish Super Cup.
Undefeated Teams With 6 Points After Week 2
Barcelona
Celta Vigo
Eibar
Atlético Madrid
Follow Damon Salvadore on Twitter @DamonSalvadore1