Real Madrid: Five notable moments from the international break
Gareth Bale
While the winger has not been given a lot of playing time with Real Madrid, he is surely letting off some steam with his national side.
Bale traveled to Nanning, China to take part in the China Cup along with Wales. With just four teams included in the tournament, it was a simple two-match affair. Along with the host nation, Uruguay and the Czech Republic filled up the other spots.
The first match was a semifinal fixture against China PR, which resulted in a 6-0 blowout win for Wales. Gareth had a great match as he ran through the lines of the Chinese defense, picking up a hat-trick.
With three more goals added to his tally, Gareth is now the all-time leading scorer for Wales with 29 goals. Bale surpassed Liverpool legend, Ian Rush, who had held the record with 28 goals.
Unbelievable reception here in China and to see so many Welsh Fans make the trip. Very proud to break Ian’s record tonight with the hat-trick ⚽⚽⚽ #29 #togetherstronger🏴 pic.twitter.com/siujPl2wvR
— Gareth Bale (@GarethBale11) March 22, 2018
Despite Wales progressing on to the Final, Bale and his men were unable to get past Uruguay in their 0-1 defeat. From an individual standpoint, this is a great sight coming from the winger as the Madrid season nears an end.
Bale ranks second in goals scored this season but 15th in minutes. That could all change very soon.
His quick pace and scoring ability is surely something that Zidane will be looking to make use of as Real make their push in the Champions League.