Madrid brings a whole world of attention

The 757 charter plane carried about 80 people, 30 of which were players or coaches. The rest were part of the entourage. Real Madrid has its own TV network, broadcast in two languages.

"This team is like having U2 or the Rolling Stones in town — or bigger," said Scot Woodbury, RSL's director of operations.

The team has two full-time security officers as well as a personal chef and a catering service. It also has use of three Suburbans, four buses and two cars.

Media from Poland, Mexico, Spain, England, Japan and the Netherlands will be at Saturday's game. Likewise, there will be fans from 30 states and 12 foreign countries.

But Madrid didn't become internationally adored by accident.

Aside from decades of success, the players know their roles. Yes, they are prima donnas, but they came off the plane Monday looking professional, with matching suits and ties. Beckham even stooped to wipe tears from the eyes of a 4-year-old in the crowd. Tuesday, he patiently posed for pictures after practice with several fans who somehow found their way into the closed stadium.

He was everything a modern metrosexual athlete/actor/pitchman is supposed to be.

Carlos and teammate Raul joined the team's manager in the press conference, politely fielding questions from both Spanish- and English-speaking reporters.

Thus, the U2/Rolling Stones/Yankees of soccer made a splash in their first full day in Salt Lake.

"I can sense the buzz around town," said team owner Dave Checketts.

He added, "If people want to appreciate why soccer is the world's No. 1 sport, you have to be there Saturday."

You'll know Real Madrid. They'll be the ones wearing stage makeup.

---

E-mail: rock@desnews.com