Real Madrid news: 5 September 2015: Bale shines with Wales, France beat Portugal

- Gareth Bale seems decided to prove his critics wrong and has started the season in encouraging form. The Welsh player scored the game-winning goal in Wales' visit to Cyprus. It was a very important victory for Bale and his teammates as Wales are ready to secure a spot in next year's UEFA Euro Cup. Bale has also played well for Real Madrid ever since the season started although he received some undeserved criticism after Real's 0-0 draw to Sporting Gijón. Either way, it seems that he's comfortable playing behind the striker and that this could be a brilliant season for him.

- Cristiano Ronaldo and Pepe's Portugal faced Benzema and Varane's France in a friendly and the French had the last laugh. It wasn't a brilliant match and only a Mathieu Valbuena goal off a free-kick moved the scoreboard. Both Pepe and Varane completed the game while Benzema played 74 minutes and Cristiano Ronaldo was replaced after 67 minutes.

- Spain host Slovakia tonight. Sergio Ramos is expected to start while Isco and Carvajal will most likely sit on the bench.

- Denis Cheryshev might also feature in Russia's important home game against Sweden.