Heavyweight broadcaster Robert Marawa, the voice of sports media in South Africa, celebrates 49th birthday
Boxing
Austria and Real Madrid utility player David Alaba has issued an apology on behalf of his teammates following his side's heavy loss to Barcelona.
Alaba and his teammates have been on a purple patch of form lately staging a comeback against Paris-Saint Germain in the Champions League while sealing a comprehensive win against Real Mallorca prior to the El Classico.
However, the Blaugrana had other ideas as they pummeled their archrivals at their own backyard much to the chagrin of the home supporters.
In the words of Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti, nothing went well for his side and shouldered the blame for the embarrassing defeat to the resurgent Barcelona.
Heavyweight broadcaster Robert Marawa, the voice of sports media in South Africa, celebrates 49th birthday
BoxingBut taking full responsibility for the dismal display, Alaba rendered an apology to all Madridistas - supporters of Real Madrid.
In a post on Twitter, spotted by Sports Brief, Alaba acknowledged his side were second-best against a dominant Barcelona before apologizing for the drab performance.
"Last night hurt. Defeats are part of football but this one is hard to take. It was a big disappointment for us and I'm incredibly sorry for all you Madridistas."
"We're disappointed with our performance yesterday and all we can do after the international break is step it up and work that much harder to make up for it and keep playing the season the way we have been. Hala Madrid! Hasta el final!"
Earlier, Sports Brief reported that Barcelona thrashed Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabéu, beating their hosts 4-0 in La Liga.
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FootballTwo goals from Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang together with goals from Ferran Torres and Ronald Araújo gave The Blaugrana a dominant win over their fierce rivals.
Barcelona started much the stronger side, catching out Real Madrid. Torres looked particularly lively in the opening few minutes.
Real Madrid overcame their shock and had their first attempt at the five-minute mark. Federico Valverde found Rodygro on the edge of the box but he sent his shot wide.