Giedrius Arlauskis made his debut in the Spanish football league on Sunday. The main goalkeeper of the Lithuanian national team, wearing the colors of "Espanyol", finally got his chance to play when he moved from England, but the opportunity could have been much more favorable.
"Espanyol" faced the star-studded Real Madrid team led by football legend Zinedine Zidane, and the favorites simply outscored G. Arlauskis.
"A bad day for a debut," wrote lavanguardia.com, as "Real" scored 6 goals against G. Arlauskis, celebrating a 6-0 victory.
"The visitors showed no signs of resistance and 'Real' stars spoiled G. Arlauskis' debut," mentioned "Associated Press."
In the first half, G. Arlauskis conceded 4 goals, including a penalty kick. The 28-year-old goalkeeper became crucial, even for Cristiano Ronaldo.
"Real" star recorded a hat-trick. Moreover, he scored already eight goals against "Espanyol" in two matches this season. No other player in the history of the Spanish championship has done so at this age.
"G. Arlauskis coped well with an early free kick by C. Ronaldo and cannot be blamed for three quick 'Real' goals. On the other hand, panic among 'Espanyol' defenders shows that communication problems with the goalkeeper could have affected the team's organization," described BBC. "The goalkeeper could have handled the fourth goal better, when C. Ronaldo's shot went in, but the incredible work of the Portuguese striker with his feet and the 'drowned' defense showed that he deserved a goal."
"Espanyol" team had to play these matches without five regular attacking players: Felice Caicedo (injured), Gerardo Moreno, Victoro Alvarezo (suspended), and Marco Asensio and Burgui (due to contract details).
It was very difficult for G. Arlauskis to play, but he was praised by the Spanish. "Despite the goals conceded, G. Arlauskis showed good skills in the air and with his feet," wrote lavanguardia.com
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