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Real Madrid strikes back into contention

Spanish soccer club Real Madrid made its case Tuesday night on the European level. The team destroyed Dynamo Kiev 5-1 in a persuasive way, for their first win in Group E of the Champions League. Two goals from striker Raul Gonzalez were his first in nearly 11 months for the club. Dutchman striker Ruud van Nistelrooy added two goals, his first European goals for his new club Madrid, and Jose Antonio Reyes scored one.

The second half saw Brazilian Ronaldo enter the game as a substitute. It was his first appearance since the World Cup quarterfinals. Ronaldo, who underwent left knee surgery, was cheered by the crowd at the Santiago Bernabeu in Madrid. Englishman David Beckham also entered as a replacement, playing the entire second half after being left on the bench for the third straight game.

"It was a good match against a team which had a lot of quality," Madrid coach Fabio Capello said. "At some moments we played very well, at other moments we did just enough. Normally, we are better organized." With players back in form, offensive performances that total 5 goals for a game, and players returning from the injured list, Real Madrid is back to being a force to reckon with.