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Blog's for July, 2016
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World Football Daily
2021-04-23T15:05:39Z
2021-04-23T15:05:39Z
World Football Daily
England turn to Sam Allardyce to transform their fortunes
Rafa Gonzales
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/England-turn-to-Sam-Allardyce-to-transform-their-fortunes/285108210609609309.html
2016-07-28T17:23:00Z
2016-07-28T17:23:00Z
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<p dir="ltr" id="docs-internal-guid-f7cdf45b-328c-3d15-72c3-b87aa1a9474a" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-top: 0pt; margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: #000000; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.66px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent;">A thoroughly disappointing Euro 2016 campaign, which ended with an embarrassing </span><a href="http://worldfootballdaily.com/b/Iceland-pulled-off-a-massive-soccer-upset-on-Monday/-159184429530185756.html" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: #0000ff; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.66px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent;">second round defeat at the hands of Iceland</span></a><span style="color: #000000; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.66px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent;">, signalled the end of Roy Hodgson’s tenure as England manager. It was widely considered a debacle from start to finish, with Hodgson coming under considerable fire for not knowing his best team or selecting a formation that made best utilisation of the players he selected within his 23-man squad. Failure to succeed in France means it is now half a century since the Three Lions won a major tournament, with a succession of managers and generation of players falling short in their efforts to emulate the Wembley heroes of 1966. It has led the FA to appoint Sam Allardyce as Hodgson’s successor, with the former Sunderland manager likely to bring a no-nonsense approach and zero tolerance towards those who fail to deliver in an England shirt. Allardyce may be seen as an unfashionable choice, but although England are clear favourites with Betway in the latest football odds to top their World Cup qualifying group, it remains to be seen whether England’s new manager can finally put an end to years of underachieving.</span></p>
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<p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-top: 0pt; margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: #000000; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.66px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent;"><span style="color: #000000; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.66px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent;"><img style="float: left; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/SamAllydyce03.jpg" alt="Sammy, phone!" width="250" /></span>Allardyce has already alluded to the fact that the England job represents the greatest challenge of his managerial career, despite working wonders at Bolton and Sunderland in keeping both teams in the Premier League. Previous managers have tried, and subsequently failed, to get a talented crop of players to play together as a team, with many often coming under criticism for failing to replicate their domestic club form on the international stage. It is one of many hurdles that Allardyce will have to overcome, and although many see him as the right man for the job, becoming England managers comes with the responsibility of getting the very best from a talented crop of players who continue to underperform.</span></p>
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<p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-top: 0pt; margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: #000000; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.66px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent;">Aside from 1994 and 2008, England usually deliver the goods during qualifying campaigns ahead of major tournaments, but often fall well short of expectations when it really matters. What makes England’s debacle at Euro 2016 even worse is that, despite Hodgson’s stern belief that his team had what it took to go all the way, they were under no pressure from the fans who lowered expectation amidst realistic fears that England have not only stood still in recent years, but also been overtaken in terms of quality by a number of other countries. Numerous nations, such as Belgium and Iceland, are flourishing under a golden generation of players that not only have the quality to perform at the highest level, but also have the spirit and determination to fight tooth and nail for the cause; this has arguably been England’s greatest downfall over the years, and although Euro 1996 is an exception to the rule, Allardyce has to find a way of rediscovering the passion and fighting spirit that took the Three Lions within touching distance of glory on home soil. Fans and pundits alike can </span><a href="https://sports.betway.com/#/soccer" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: #0000ff; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.66px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent;">click here to bet on England</span></a><span style="color: #000000; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.66px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent;"> with Betway to start their 2018 World Cup qualifying campaign off against Slovakia with a win in Allardyce’s first game in charge, but it will take a strong performance to beat a side who easily kept the Three Lions at bay during the group stages at Euro 2016.</span></p>
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<p dir="ltr" id="docs-internal-guid-f7cdf45b-328c-8b16-5e10-2da9224985e5" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-top: 0pt; margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: #000000; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.66px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent;">It remains to be seen how England will line up under Allardyce, with formation and player selection likely to provide big talking points ahead of his first game in charge. However, the fact that the new manager has stated that players must stand up and be counted is a refreshing outlook; England certainly have a lot of talent at their disposal through the likes of Dele Alli, Harry Kane and Ross Barkley, but the potential has to be transformed to strong performances on the pitch when they put on the national team shirt. Allardyce has also alluded to his focus on working on people’s strengths, with his choice of system depending on who is available at the time and who deserves to be called up. It would suggest that the days of being called up on name alone, without considering form or fitness, could be a thing of the past under Allardyce, but the players will be made instantly aware that they will have to work hard and restore pride back into the England team if they are to remain in his thoughts.</span></p>
<br /><img style="margin: 5px auto; vertical-align: middle; display: block;" src="/images/blog/SAllardyce02.jpg" alt="" width="300" /><br />
<p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-top: 0pt; margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: #000000; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.66px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent;"> </span></p>
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<p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-top: 0pt; margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: #000000; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.66px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent;">Allardyce will undoubtedly be judged on how he manages to get a crop of talented players to work together as a collective unit and ensure they play positive, entertaining football that creates an identity to be proud of. However, his suggestion that the </span><a href="http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-3706814/England-manager-Sam-Allardyce-calls-Premier-League-introduce-winter-break.html" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: #0000ff; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.66px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent;">absence of a mid-season break has held England back</span></a><span style="color: #000000; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.66px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent;"> carries some weight; fans have become used to the tradition of going to football matches over the festive period, but the severe physical and mental demands of the Premier League can lead to burnout and fatigue which becomes a potential problem during the years in which a major tournament starts soon after the domestic season has finished. Kane and Alli, in particular, appeared exhausted in France and never got close to hitting the same heights as they did for Tottenham, and although tiredness cannot be used as the prime excuse for England’s poor campaign at Euro 2016, considering a winter break may ultimately benefit the Premier League and the national team in the future. Other countries, such as France, Germany and Spain, all benefit from taking a month-long break that allows players to be with their families and, more importantly, recharge the batteries ahead of the second half of the season; Allardyce may need to get more people on board before it is enforced, but he has to consider what is best for the players he believes can finally lift England out of the doldrums and make the nation proud again.</span></p>
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Rafa Gonzales
2016-07-28T17:23:00Z
Iceland pulled off a massive soccer upset on Monday
Staff
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Iceland-pulled-off-a-massive-soccer-upset-on-Monday/-159184429530185756.html
2016-06-28T00:33:00Z
2016-06-28T00:33:00Z
<a href="https://www.bostonglobe.com/sports/soccer/2016/06/27/iceland-pulled-off-massive-soccer-upset-monday/p65sVvzLsbux8psREfo3DI/story.html" target="_blank">Boston Globe</a>:<br /><br />Iceland pulled off one of the biggest shocks in European Championship history by beating England 2-1 in the round of 16 on Monday, continuing the astonishing run of the smallest nation at the tournament.
<p>England slumped to its most embarrassing loss in a generation after taking the lead in the fourth minute through Wayne Rooney’s penalty.</p>
<p>Ragnar Sigurdsson and Kolbeinn Sigthorsson took advantage of defensive shortcomings by England to put Iceland ahead by the 18th minute, and the Icelanders defended superbly in the second half to earn the biggest victory in their history.</p>
<p>The country of 330,000 — in its first major tournament — next plays host nation France in Saint-Denis on Sunday, while England heads home early again for another post-tournament inquest. England’s players slumped to the ground after the final whistle, their heads in their hands.</p>
<p>England manager Roy Hodgson said after the game he would not return as coach.</p>
<p>For a soccer nation of England’s standing, its record in major tournaments is woeful. The English have still never won a knockout-stage game abroad in the European Championship in eight attempts and haven’t won a match beyond the group stage of a major tournament since 2006.</p>
<p>This defeat will probably go down as England’s most humiliating since losing 1-0 to the United States in 1950 World Cup.</p>
<p>Even more so since its team of Premier League stars took the lead on a balmy night at the Stade de Nice after Raheem Sterling — a contentious pick by Hodgson on the left wing — was clipped by goalkeeper Hannes Halldorsson as he prodded the ball past him. Rooney converted the penalty into the bottom-left corner.</p>
<p>Iceland struck back immediately through Sigurdsson, volleying in at the far post after Kari Arnason’s flick-on from a long throw. Sigthorsson then took advantage of more slack defending by England, getting time and space to shoot from just inside the area. Goalkeeper Joe Hart got a hand to the effort but the ball squirmed in.</p>
<p>Iceland was relatively untroubled in the second half as England’s passing and touch deserted its players, with Rooney especially culpable.</p>
<em> </em><br />
Staff
2016-06-28T00:33:00Z
Soccer Shocker: Lionel Messi Says He's Retiring From Argentina's National Team
Staff
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Soccer-Shocker:-Lionel-Messi-Says-Hes-Retiring-From-Argentinas-National-Team/-143227318584062109.html
2016-06-28T00:05:00Z
2016-06-28T00:05:00Z
<a href="http://www.npr.org/sections/thetwo-way/2016/06/27/483698441/soccer-shocker-lionel-messi-says-hes-retiring-from-argentinas-national-team" target="_blank">NPR:</a><br /><br />Lionel Messi says it's over. He's retiring from Argentina's national team. <br /><br />After losing three previous Copa America finals, Lionel Messi on Sunday night had another chance to win. Argentina and Chile were locked in a scoreless tie, and the match would be decided by penalty kicks. Messi bent down to adjust the ball and backed up to get a running start. The five-time FIFA Ballon d'Or winner licked his lip, gave the goalie a quick appraising glance, and sent a cannonball-like shot over the goal, missing for Argentina when it mattered most.<br />
<p>In a promo video before the game, <em>Sports Illustrated</em> called Messi the "greatest soccer player ever" and compared him to Muhammad Ali, Babe Ruth and Michael Jordan. He has had a celebrated career with FC Barcelona in Spain. He's famous for breathtaking shots, often taken after a blur of footwork to get past defenders.</p>
<p>But aside from an Olympic gold in 2008, Messi has never been able to bring home a major international championship playing for his home country.</p>
<p>He was clearly devastated by Sunday night's 4-2 loss to Chile and the part he played in it. <a href="http://www.bbc.com/sport/football/36637591">The BBC quoted</a> Messi after the game as saying:</p>
<blockquote class="edTag">
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<p>" 'For me, the national team is over,' he said after defeat by Chile in the Copa America final. 'I've done all I can. It hurts not to be a champion.' ...</p>
<p>" 'It's been four finals, I tried,' added Messi, who made his debut for Argentina in 2005 and has played 113 times for his country.</p>
<p>" 'It was the thing I wanted the most, but I couldn't get it, so I think it's over.' ...</p>
<p>" 'It's very hard, but the decision is taken. Now I will not try more and there will be no going back.' "</p>
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</blockquote>
Staff
2016-06-28T00:05:00Z
USA Defeated 1-0 by Colombia in 2016 Copa America Centenario Third Place Match
Staff
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/USA-Defeated-1-0-by-Colombia-in-2016-Copa-America-Centenario-Third-Place-Match/-112056866742789832.html
2016-06-26T00:23:00Z
2016-06-26T00:23:00Z
<a href="http://www.ussoccer.com/stories/2016/06/26/03/33/160625-mnt-usa-defeated-by-colombia-in-2016-copa-america-centenario-third-place-match" target="_blank">US Soccer</a>:<br /><br />The U.S. Men’s National Team secured a second fourth place finish in its Copa America history after a 1-0 loss to Colombia at University of Phoenix Stadium in the teams’ final match of the 2016 Copa America Centenario.
<p>The USA had to once again shuffle its defense, this time due to injury, as Matt Besler was drafted into the middle alongside Geoff Cameron and Michael Orozco came in at right back. Additionally, veteran goalkeeper Tim Howard saw his first action of the competition, starting in goal in place of No. 1 ‘keeper Brad Guzan.</p>
<p>The reshuffled defense was breached in the 31st minute as Colombia attacked down the right wing before sending the ball into the center of the pitch just outside the U.S. box for James Rodriguez to play in right back Santiago Arias, whose headed pass was bundled across the line by a sliding Carlos Bacca.</p>
<p>While the U.S. had its chances to score in the second half, notably on a Clint Dempsey free kick and a Bobby Wood shot that hit the right post, the Yanks were unable to find the net despite U.S. head coach Jurgen Klinsmann also bringing on attacking talents Christian Pulisic and Darlington Nagbe late in the match.</p>
Staff
2016-06-26T00:23:00Z
Chile embarrasses Mexico, 7-0, in Copa America quarterfinal
Staff
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Chile-embarrasses-Mexico,-7-0,-in-Copa-America-quarterfinal/879891552799503425.html
2016-06-19T00:13:00Z
2016-06-19T00:13:00Z
<a href="http://www.latimes.com/sports/soccer/la-sp-chile-mexico-20160618-snap-story.html" target="_blank">Los Angeles Times:</a><br />
<p>Chile, perhaps more than any other team, came into this month’s Copa America Centenario feeling it had something to prove.</p>
<p>Although it is the defending champion, it wasn’t one of the four teams seeded into the tournament. Although it’s ranked fifth in the world, most of the pre-Centenario attention focused on Argentina, Mexico, Uruguay and Brazil.</p>
<p>But if Chile was overlooked, Saturday it made sure it could no longer be ignored, dominating Mexico, 7-0, Saturday before a stunned pro-Mexico crowd of 70,547 at Levi’s Stadium.</p>
<p>With the win Chile moves on to the Centenario semifinals Wednesday in Chicago, where it will meet Colombia. Unbeaten Argentina plays the U.S. in the other semifinal Tuesday in Houston.</p>
<p>Mexico, meanwhile, goes home embarrassed, its national-record 22-match unbeaten streak – and its pride – both broken by the most one-sided loss in a competitive match in Mexican history.</p>
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Staff
2016-06-19T00:13:00Z
The England Team for Euro 2016, Can Chris Smalling Make the Grade?
Rafa Gonzales
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/The-England-Team-for-Euro-2016,-Can-Chris-Smalling-Make-the-Grade/-646089878794754320.html
2016-04-08T16:25:00Z
2016-04-08T16:25:00Z
<p><span style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">After England’s defeat by the Netherlands on March 29th, it has called into question which players will make the first team selection ready for the European Championship 2016, a topic that isn’t without a long list of punters. The friendly was the last international match before the team travel to France for the beginning of the matches, and therefore it seems likely that Roy Hodgson will already have </span></span><a href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/35919874"><span style="color: blue; font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">his key players in mind</span></span></a><span style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">. </span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: small;"> </span><span style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">However, with several domestic games between now and June 10th, there is still chance for last minute changes to be made based on performances, a factor that Manchester United player Chris Smalling is eager to work to his advantage. His form has been impressive to say the least, with the defender having made quite the name for himself at Old Trafford during what can only be seen as a difficult time for the club. </span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: small;"> </span><span style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial;"><img src="/images/blog/royhodgsonengland.jpg" alt="England Manager" width="350" style="float: right; margin: 5px;" /></span></span>The drive he has shown in the 29 matches he has played, a total that marks him as</span></span><a href="http://www.manutd.com/en/News-And-Features/Football-News/2016/Jan/Chris-Smalling-admits-transfer-rumours-have-inspired-his-impressive-2015-16-form-for-Man-United.aspx"><span style="color: blue; font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial;"> the most played team member </span></span></a><span style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">of the season, has stoked rumours that Smalling could rival David de Gea for the Sir Matt Busby Player of the Year title. A theory that is proving quite popular with backers who are at the ready to place their bets in anticipation for when the awards will be announced. However, it isn’t just his club that he has impressed, for it is said that Roy Hodgson has his eye on the player ready for the Euro 2016 team decisions.</span></span></p>
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: small;">
<p><span style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">After a string of unfortunate experiences with UEFA in the past, the most recent being in 2014 when he spent the majority of the tournament watching from the bench, Smalling is said to be determined to make this Euro one that witnesses him playing a prominent role. Given his contributions for both teams over the past season, Smalling has commented saying that he fully expects to </span></span><a href="http://www.dailystar.co.uk/sport/football/506292/Chris-Smalling-England-Euro-2016-Premier-League-Man-United-wants-to-be-a-starter"><span style="color: blue; font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">be at the fore of the Euro 2016 action</span></span></a><span style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">, provided he keeps up his current form. </span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">A confident claim that will undoubtedly draw a lot of interest from fans patiently following the fluctuations in betting odds. To </span></span><a href="https://bookmakers.co.uk/free-bets/"><span style="color: blue; font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">play safe</span></span></a><span style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">, and get the most out of the current tips surfacing on the net, bookmaker directories such as Bookmakers.co.uk are the ideal place to see who is offering what, and whether the odds are favourable. A particularly useful source to have when so much is still uncertain about who will go to France and who won’t. Currently there are some </span></span><a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/2016/mar/30/england-euro-2016-squad-on-the-plane-missing-out"><span style="color: blue; font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">certainties for the team we can be sure of</span></span></a><span style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">, like the fact that Jordan Henderson and James Milner are definites for the midfielders, while Eric Dier is a hopeful. Nonetheless, a lot can happen between now and May 31st when the final UEFA squad calls are made. However, with Hodgson said to be announcing his chief selection earlier than the allotted date, it would seem players looking to make an impression don’t have long to do so. </span></span></p>
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Rafa Gonzales
2016-04-08T16:25:00Z
The MLS Champions win in season opener by 2 goals to 1.
Mark Henty
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/The-MLS-Champions-win-in-season-opener-by-2-goals-to-1./469743175126521164.html
2016-03-07T02:08:00Z
2016-03-07T02:08:00Z
<p><strong>Major League Soccer - Providence Park</strong></p>
<p><strong>3/6/2016: Sunshine & Showers, 14C/57F</strong></p>
<p><strong>Attendance: 21,114</strong></p>
<p><strong>Starting Line-ups: </strong></p>
<p><strong>Portland Timbers – </strong>GLK Adam Larsen Kwarasey, DEF Alvas Powell, DEF Liam Ridgewell, DEF Nat Borchers, DEF Zarek Valentin, MID Diego Chara, MID Diego Valeri, MID Darlington Nagbe, FWD Lucas Melano, FWD Dairon Asprilla, FWD Fanendo Adi. <strong>Formation: 4-3-3.</strong></p>
<p><strong>Columbus Crew – </strong>GLK Steve Clark, DEF Harrison Afful, DEF Waylon Francis, DEF Michael Parkhurst, DEF Gaston Sauro, MID Tony Tchani, MID Will Trapp, MID Ethan Finlay, MID Justin Meram, MID Frederico Higuain, FWD Kei Kamara. <strong>Formation: 4-2-3-1.</strong></p>
<p><strong>Game 1:</strong></p>
<p>After what seemed to be an all too short winter break for the new MLS Champions, the Portland Timbers, Providence Park was the setting for the opening game of the 2016 season in a repeat of the 2015 MLS Championship final. Blustery conditions and frequent showers greeted the teams in very different conditions from those of the final just 4 months prior.</p>
<p>The home side have been notoriously slow starters in recent seasons but will have been looking to get off to a flying start and show doubters that last season was not a fluke and that this side was indeed a formidable outfit who could compete with and beat the best in the league. There was little doubting what Columbus motivations would be as they look to seek revenge on the team that stopped them from taking home the title last season.</p>
<p>The Portland Timbers incredible run at the end of last season was clearly sparked by the switch to central midfield of the talented and now 4-time US cap winning Darlington Nagbe, whose combination play with Argentine Diego Valeri was at times thrilling to watch in the end of season run as workhorse and team engine Diego Chara protected the defense brilliantly in the holding position.</p>
<p>Portland had lost important players from their team over the off season with Jorge Villafana, Rodney Wallace, Will Johnson, George Fochive, Max Urruti, and Norberto Paparatto all saying farewell but Caleb Porter has brought in some decent players including Ned Grabavoy, Jack McInerney, Chris Klute, Jermaine Taylor, and Zarek Valentin to look to try to become only the 4<sup>th</sup> team to retain the MLS Championship trophy. Columbus did lose both McInerney and Klute to Portland along with players such as Emanual Pogatetz but they too bolstered their squad with players such as free agents Corey Ashe and Conor Casey, and Ola Kamara from Austria Wien.</p>
<p>After an exciting opening MLS ceremony including the MLS trophy on show for the fans to see plus the traditional fans singing of the national anthem on opening day of the season, it was down to business.</p>
<p><strong>Match Highlights:</strong></p>
<p><strong>1<sup>st</sup> Half</strong></p>
<p><strong>23 mins: GOAL! </strong>Diego Valeri with the free kick from 25 yards out on the left hand side of the penalty area and he swung it in via a style that has been so successful for Chelsea’s Willian this season, over the wall and in between the goalkeeper and defense with pace and it bounced in an awkward area as oncoming Timbers players went charging in and Clark was left standing. <strong>Portland Timbers 1-0 Columbus Crew.</strong></p>
<p><strong>27 mins: </strong>Another dangerous opportunity for Portland as Diego Valeri was fouled in a similar position to where the free kick was for his goal. This time he elected to chip it to the far post and Adi just could not get enough on it to threaten the Columbus goal.</p>
<p><strong>30 mins: </strong>Portland looked dangerous again on the counter attack from a Columbus corner kick and Diego Chara found Fanendo Adi through the center who then found Dairon Asprilla on the left side just inside the penalty area but his show was over the bar and did not test Steve Clark.</p>
<p><strong>36 mins: </strong>More pressure from the Timbers as Lucas Melano broke down the right hand side and drew a foul by the right hand touchline. Valeri’s free kick was perfect for Asprilla to flick on but he missed the ball completely.</p>
<p><strong>39 mins: </strong>Columbus won a tenuous free kick in a dangerous area around 25 yards out and it was Frederico Higuain with the shot that took a deflection of the wall and landed nicely for Kwarasey to collect.</p>
<p><strong>40 mins: </strong>Asprilla with some neat work on the left and his cross found Adi but the referee’s assistant called a handball on Adi and it was close but probably just about the correct decision after Adi squirmed the ball into the net. No goal.</p>
<p><strong>42 mins: </strong>Yet another break from the Timbers and this time it’s Valeri who found his way through the center of the Columbus back line, he dummied to pass and then did so to set up Asprilla but his shot was this time parried over the crossbar.</p>
<p><strong>45 mins: </strong>A rare break for the Columbus Crew and Harrison Afful pulled in an in-swinging cross from the right hand side that Liam Ridgewell just about got his head onto to nod it over the ball and stop a clear headed chance for the onrushing Hector Jiminez.</p>
<p><strong>Half Time Score: Portland Timbers (Valeri 23) 1-0 Columbus Crew </strong></p>
<p><strong>Shots: Portland Timbers 10 (3)-9 (1) Columbus Crew</strong></p>
<p><strong>Possession: Portland Timbers 40%-60% Columbus Crew</strong></p>
<p><strong> </strong></p>
<p><strong>2<sup>nd</sup> Half:</strong></p>
<p><strong>50 mins: </strong>Alves Powell from just inside his half squirmed a pacey ball forward to Adi who came deep for the pass and he laid it off to Valeri whose shot from just outside the box went a whisker wide of the left hand post as Portland looked to grab a crucial second goal. Diego Valeri was looking in inspired form at least up until this point in this game.</p>
<p><strong>56 mins: </strong>Frederico Higuain and Hector Jiminez combined well and it was Jiminez with the shot low from just outside the penalty area but Kwarasey got down well to it. 2 minutes later and a whipped in cross from the right hand side ricochet off Kei Kamara who had been pretty quiet until then but the ball squirmed from under his feet to a thankful Kwarasey. Columbus were beginning to get into the game and cause Portland problems.</p>
<p><strong>63 mins: </strong> An excellent move between Diego Valeri and Darlington Nagbe and via a 1-2 it is the latter who thumps the shot on the run and it rebounds off the crossbar. Another excellent attack from Portland that doesn’t quite find the back of the net.</p>
<p><strong>68 mins: GOAL</strong>! Columbus had been getting back into the game and Frederico Higuain had the ball played back to him inside the Portland penalty area and the ball bobbled up to the perfect height for an overhead kick which he put away with aplomb. A marvelous goal to square things up. <strong>Portland Timber 1-1 Columbus Crew.</strong></p>
<p><strong>78 mins: GOAL! </strong>Lucas Melano from the right sprayed the ball over to the left hand side where Dairon Asprilla chested it down and drilled the ball across at Steve Clark who could only parry it up into the path of Fanendo Adi who made no mistake from 4 yards. <strong>Portland Timbers 2-1 Columbus Crew.</strong></p>
<p><strong>84 mins: </strong>Another acrobatic attempt from the excellent Higuain for the away side this time from the edge of the box and Kwarasey is beaten and it comes back off the post. Higuain almost pulling off another touch of magic.</p>
<p><strong>90 mins: </strong>Kei Kamara almost unleashed an equalizer from close to the penalty spot and it’s Captain Liam Ridgewell who throws himself at the ball to block it and save the win for the Champions.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Full Time Score: Portland Timbers 2-1 Columbus Crew</strong></p>
<p><strong>Shots: Portland Timbers 20 (8)-19 (4) Columbus Crew</strong></p>
<p><strong>Possession: Portland Timbers 39% - 61%</strong></p>
<p><strong>MOTM: Diego Valeri (Portland Timbers)</strong></p>
<p><strong>Summary:</strong></p>
<p>A true end to end game here at Providence Park that had pretty much everything. The Portland Timbers might be notorious for having slow starts to recent seasons but on this occasion they took the 3 points to match the score from last season’s MLS Cup Final. Caleb Porter will be very happy with this start to the season and the Timbers Army will have gone home excited for the new season if performances continue in that vein. Portland appears to have Columbus’ number at the moment and have been able to soak up pressure in recent matches from the away side and hit them with lightning speed on the break.</p>
Mark Henty
2016-03-07T02:08:00Z
Will Lionel Messi win a sixth Ballon d'Or award in 2016?
Rafa Gonzales
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Will-Lionel-Messi-win-a-sixth-Ballon-dOr-award-in-2016/688508378581290543.html
2016-01-13T19:27:00Z
2016-01-13T19:27:00Z
<p><span style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">On Monday, Lionel Messi won the 2015 FIFA Ballon d’Or award – an achievement that means he has now been crowned as the best player on the planet a record five times.</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: small;"> </span><span style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">Without a doubt, Messi will go down as one of the all-time greats but so will runner up Cristiano Ronaldo, who also has three Ballon d’Or successes to his name. Can Lionel Messi win the award in 2016 or will rival Ronaldo topple him? We take a look at their chances whilst also considering whether third-placed Neymar also stands a chance.</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: small;"> </span><span style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">It’s now got to that stage where people are running out of words to describe Lionel Messi. The Argentina captain has been instrumental for both club and country in the past decade and, at just 28 years old, that could continue for the foreseeable future – much to the dismay of defenders across Europe.</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: small;"> </span><span style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">Messi has masterminded an era of Barcelona dominance and the star has been central to their </span></span><a href="http://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/news/newsid=2251733.html"><span style="color: blue; font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">two treble-winning seasons</span></span></a><span style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">. He is simply sublime and is already the leading contender for the award with most bookmakers in their football betting odds. It would take a brave man to back against the Barca forward winning the award again in 2016.</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: small;"> </span><span style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">In 2015, Messi was back to his brilliant best and inspired Barcelona to the treble – their second in six years. The forward, along with Neymar and Luis Suarez, terrorised opposing defenders and enjoyed plenty of success throughout the campaign. “MSN” actually </span></span><a href="http://www.sportsnet.ca/soccer/watch-all-messi-suarez-neymar-goals-in-2015/"><span style="color: blue; font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">finished the calendar year with 137 goals</span></span></a><span style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial;"> – an astonishing figure.</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: small;"> </span><span style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">Because of that, Messi may have to watch out for his Barcelona team-mates in the Ballon d’Or next season. Neymar has matured into one of the top players on the planet and will push Messi close if he performs at his very best. Meanwhile, Suarez is also profiting at Barcelona and is now scoring on an almost weekly basis.</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: small;"> </span><span style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">However, the main threat will once again come from Cristiano Ronaldo. 2015 just wasn’t Real Madrid’s year but they could bounce back with Zinedine Zidane at the helm. Both Carlo Ancelotti and Rafael Benitez failed to control the key personalities at the Santiago Bernabeu and </span></span><a href="http://www.espnfc.co.uk/real-madrid/story/2784364/real-madrids-sacking-of-rafa-benitez-hard-to-understand"><span style="color: blue; font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">lost their jobs after lacklustre results</span></span></a><span style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial;"> on the pitch.</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: small;"> </span><span style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">Despite this, Ronaldo got on with his football and still enjoyed a relatively successful season. By anyone else’s standards, he had a great season but Ronaldo himself knows that 2015 wasn’t his year – even though he scored 66 goals in 58 games.</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: small;"> </span><span style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">The Portuguese star could bounce back in 2016 though and could lead Real to the Champions League crown. Punters looking for Real Madrid and Ronaldo-related markets can </span></span><a href="http://www.bookies.com/news/football/five-fantastic-champions-league-semi-final-bets.html"><span style="color: blue; font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">scout the latest odds here</span></span></a><span style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">. It’s very difficult to pick a winner but Ronaldo will be desperate for success as he continues to age on the wrong side of 30.</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial;"><img style="float: right; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Screen-Shot-2015-01-12-at-21.37.46[1].png" alt="Messi or Ronaldo" width="300" /></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">So, who will come out on top? Well, that’s anybody’s guess. Messi has years ahead of him and it wouldn’t be ridiculous to say that he could go on and win a sixth, seventh or even an eighth Ballon d’Or crown. However, Ronaldo strives to succeed on a daily basis and his hunger for individual recognition stands him in good stead to win the award. One thing’s for sure: neutrals should feel blessed to watch both... they won’t be around forever.</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: small;"> </span></p>
Rafa Gonzales
2016-01-13T19:27:00Z
Portland Timbers 3-1 FC Dallas from Providence Park.
Mark Henty
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Portland-Timbers-3-1-FC-Dallas-from-Providence-Park./-710413475658867551.html
2015-11-23T02:23:00Z
2015-11-23T02:23:00Z
<p><strong>Major League Soccer Western Conference Final Leg 1 - Providence Park</strong></p>
<p><strong>11/22/2015: Clear, 10C/50F</strong></p>
<p><strong>Attendance: 20,814</strong></p>
<p><strong>Starting Line-ups: </strong></p>
<p><strong>Portland Timbers – </strong>GLK Adam Larsen Kwarasey, DEF Alvas Powell, DEF Liam Ridgewell, DEF Nat Borchers, DEF Jorge Villafana, MID Diego Chara, MID Jack Jewsbury, MID Darlington Nagbe, MID Lucas Melano, MID Dairon Asprilla, FWD Fanendo Adi. <strong>Formation: 4-2-3-1.</strong></p>
<p><strong>FC Dallas – </strong>GLK Jesse Gonzalez, DEF Ryan Hollingshead, DEF Matt Hedges, DEF Zach Loyd, DEF Je-Vaughn Watson, MID Victor Ulloa, MID Kellyn Acosta, MID Fabian Castillo, MID Mauro Diaz, MID Micheal Barrios, FWD David Texeira. <strong>Formation: 4-2-3-1.</strong></p>
<p><strong>Leg 1 of the MLS season Western Conference Final:</strong></p>
<p>Providence Park hosted the first leg of the 2015 MLS Western Conference Final and it was a glorious day for one last game this season in the Rose City with temperatures hovering around a comfortable 50F after a rainy week. Co-Supporters Shield winners FC Dallas were looking to set themselves up for the home leg with some kind of positive result from the away leg while Portland would have happily taken another 3-1 victory which they obtained early in the season at home.</p>
<p>For Caleb Porter, both Rodney Wallace and Diego Valeri were missing through suspension and so he had to shuffle the pack. Much interest was to see who he would go with out of Jack Jewsbury, George Fochive, or Will Johnson who had played well for Canada the previous week in replacing Diego Valeri and he elected to bring in Jack Jewsbury in a 4-2-3-1 formation. Rodney Wallace was replaced by Dairon Asprilla for an injection of pace into the attack. This was the second time in 3 seasons that the Portland Timbers had made it to the play off conference final and they are clearly hoping to go all the way this season but FC Dallas were always going to be a tough proposition with their explosive attack.</p>
<p>For FC Dallas, they were on a high having won their tie over the fancied Seattle Sounders and looking to make the most of their first time in a conference final since 2010. If they could grab something at Providence Park then they would certainly be favorites going into the second leg with their league leading record of 13-2-2 at the Toyota Stadium. No suspensions to worry about for Coach Oscar Pareja and this team had been very dangerous on the break all season so Portland will have needed to be switched on with their defending right from the start. An away goal let in here could be very costly for the home side.</p>
<p><br /> <strong>Match Highlights:</strong></p>
<p><strong>1<sup>st</sup> Half</strong></p>
<p><strong>1 min: </strong>Nagbe makes an early break and slides the ball through to Melano who turned his man but Gonzalez made an excellent save. Melano did well but really should have put that away.</p>
<p><strong>3 mins: </strong>It’s the same combo once again as Nagbe sets Melano free again and he had a cheeky shot from a tight angle that Gonzalez should have dealt with but parried it onto his own crossbar. Excellent early pressure from the home side and Nagbe looked like he was really up for this already.</p>
<p><strong>7 mins: </strong>Yet again it was Nagbe sliding another pass in for Melano but his shot from a tight angle was low and wide of the goal. An excellent start from the home side looking to take an early lead now on 3 occasions as Nagbe’s skill and Melano’s pace was causing all kinds of trouble for the FC Dallas defense.</p>
<p><strong>20 mins: </strong>The game had settled down a little and FC Dallas were beginning to at least keep the Timbers at bay. Portland will feel that they should have gotten an early goal while they were really on top. Mauro Diaz put in a low shot from the edge of the box after some head tennis in the Portland penalty area.</p>
<p><strong>GOAL! 24 mins: </strong>Corner swung in from the right hand side and Asprilla nods it on from the near post and it’s Liam Ridgewell who bundles the ball home for a well-deserved goal. <strong>Portland Timbers 1-0 FC Dallas.</strong></p>
<p><strong>27 mins: </strong>Barrios eased his way with great skill past Alves Powell and cut inside from the byline and picked out a pacey pass to Texeira and he tried a back heel flick but completely missed it to the relief of the home fans. This was indeed an example of how dangerous FC Dallas can be.</p>
<p><strong>35 mins: </strong>A free kick won by Diego Chara and it was floated from centrally in and Jack Jewsbury got a good headed flick onto it for Nat Borchers but he just couldn’t get it either side of Gonzalez who kept it to 1-0.</p>
<p><strong>41 mins: </strong>Nagbe once again with an excellent show of vision as he found Asprilla out wide but his low cross was only found by Goalkeeper Gonzalez.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Half Time Score: Portland Timbers (Ridgewell 24) 1-0 FC Dallas () </strong></p>
<p><strong>Shots: Portland Timbers 6 (3)-4 (2) FC Dallas</strong></p>
<p><strong>Possession: Portland Timbers 53%-47% FC Dallas</strong></p>
<p><strong> </strong></p>
<p><strong>2<sup>nd</sup> Half:</strong></p>
<p><strong>46 mins: </strong>Corner won by the home side on the left and side and Alvas Powel put in an in swinger that Asprilla met with his head but nodded it too much down into the surface and Gonzalez was able to tip it over the crossbar. Another bright start to the half from the home side.</p>
<p><strong>GOAL!! 54 mins: </strong>Fanendo Adi tries to get onto a through ball and goes down but nothing was given and Dairon Asprilla picked up the ball 30 yards out on the right hand side of the pitch and rifled it like a laser into the top left hand corner of the goal to make it 2-0 and take the roof off of Providence Park. <strong>Portland Timbers 2-0 FC Dallas.</strong></p>
<p><strong>57 mins: </strong>Fortunate for the Timbers as Ryan Hollingshead found himself through on goal with only Kwarasey to beat and his shot just flew wide of the left hand post in a big let off for the home side. An away goal would be very important in a game like this.</p>
<p><strong>GOAL! 62 mins: </strong>Within 1 minute of Liam Ridgewell being forced off the field due to injury, FC Dallas score a simple goal. Diaz slid the ball onto Watson out wide and Texeira slid the ball home from 5 yards. Portland substitute Norberto Paparatto with a nightmare start as he lost his man for the goal. Poor defending and a crucial away goal for FC Dallas who had looked dangerous on the break. <strong>Portland Timbers 2-1 FC Dallas.</strong></p>
<p><strong>75 mins: </strong>After plenty of good possession for FC Dallas after the goal had changed the game and party atmosphere for the home fans, it was another corner for the Timbers swung in and once again Asprilla won the header down but Paparatto could not prod the ball home. A difficult chance to be fair to him. The game was really in the balance at this point.</p>
<p><strong>GOAL! 90 mins: </strong> Portland had looked dangerous all evening from set pieces and another corner was swung in and Paparatto won the initial header down and via a scramble it’s Nat Borchers who scrambled the ball home for what could be a massive goal in this game! <strong>Portland Timbers 3-1 FC Dallas.</strong></p>
<p><strong>Full Time Score: Portland Timbers 3-1 FC Dallas</strong></p>
<p><strong>Shots: Portland Timbers 14 (8)-11 (5) FC Dallas</strong></p>
<p><strong>Possession: Portland Timbers 54% - 46%</strong></p>
<p><strong>MOTM: Dairon Asprilla - Portland Timbers</strong></p>
<p><strong>Summary:</strong></p>
<p>An excellent performance from the Portland Timbers, especially in the early parts of both halves and they richly deserved the victory. At 2-0 the home side was looking comfortable but when Liam Ridgewell went off injured and FC Dallas scored within a minute, the away team had Portland almost on the ropes as Portland kept giving away possession. Credit to Caleb Porter’s men though who hung on and grabbed a 3<sup>rd</sup> goal from another set piece where they looked dangerous all evening.</p>
<p>It’s all to play for in Dallas 1 week from tonight and FC Dallas will have to win by 2-0 or better to get the better of Caleb Porter’s men, certainly not impossible for them as they have the best home record in the league, but surely the Portland Timbers are favorites to win the Western Conference. </p>
<p> </p>
Mark Henty
2015-11-23T02:23:00Z
Portland Timbers 2 (7)- 2 (6) Sporting Kansas City from Providence Park AET & Pens.
Mark Henty
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Portland-Timbers-2-7--2-6-Sporting-Kansas-City-from-Providence-Park-AET--Pens./50479826795730744.html
2015-10-30T06:07:00Z
2015-10-30T06:07:00Z
<p><strong>Major League Soccer Play-Off - Providence Park</strong></p>
<p><strong>10/29/2015 7:00pm: Cloudy, 14C/55F</strong></p>
<p><strong>Attendance: 21,314</strong></p>
<p><strong>MLS end records: Portland Timbers (W15-D8-L11-53pts) vs. Sporting Kansas City (W14-D9-L11-51pts)</strong></p>
<p><strong>Starting Line-ups: </strong></p>
<p><strong>Portland Timbers – </strong>GLK Adam Larsen Kwarasey, DEF Alves Powell, DEF Liam Ridgewell, DEF Nat Borchers, DEF Jorge Villafana, MID Jack Jewsbury, MID Diego Valeri, MID Darlington Nagbe, FOR Lucas Melano, FOR Rodney Wallace, FWD Fanendo Adi. <strong>Formation: 4-3-3.</strong></p>
<p><strong>Sporting Kansas City: </strong>GLK, Tim Melia DEF Amadou Dia, DEF Matt Besler, DEF Kevin Ellis, DEF Saad Abdul-Salaam, MID Benny Feilhaber, MID Paulo Nagamura, MID Soni Mustivar, FWD Dominic Dwyer, FWD Graham Zusi, FWD Krisztian Nemeth. <strong>Formation: 4-3-3</strong></p>
<p><strong>Preview:</strong></p>
<p>Providence Park and the in-form Portland Timbers (3 seed) played host to, the always difficult to beat, Sporting Kansas City on a showery evening in the Rose City. Portland ended the regular season in style with 3 victories in a row against Real Salt Lake (1-0), and LA Galaxy (5-2) both away and then a stylish victory at home against the Colorado Rapids (4-1) to leap up the table to finish in 3<sup>rd</sup> place in the Western Conference. Sporting Kansas City beat the LA Galaxy 2-1 at home to book their spot in 6<sup>th</sup> place after 2 defeats to the Colorado Rapids and San Jose Earthquakes that threatened to derail their play-off hopes.</p>
<p>Portland Coach Caleb Porter had Argentine Diego Valeri back from suspension and a full strength squad to pick from with the recent return to the bench of Will Johnson as well. Sporting Kansas City have been very strong in attack this season and were unbeaten and unscored against by the Timbers this season going into the game with three players having score 10 or more goals in the regular season (Dominic Dwyer (12), Krisztian Nemeth (10), Benny Feilhaber (10)). The teams had met twice in the past 2 months at Providence Park with a scoreless draw and an away win for KC 1 to 0 after a Nemeth goal after 83 minutes. Many were predicting a close and low scoring encounter but the 1 game deciding play offs are very different to the regular season and the loser goes out. The fans packed Providence Park out once again and it was going to be a great night for one of these teams.</p>
<p><br /> <strong>Match Report:</strong></p>
<p><strong>1<sup>st</sup> Half:</strong></p>
<p><strong>1 min: </strong>An early long ball up field from Nat Borchers and it was nodded down by Fanendo Adi to Diego Valeri who slipped the ball wide through for Rodney Wallace who cut inside and hit a low shot but Tim Melia was able to get down to it and force a corner kick in an attack straight from the kick off.</p>
<p><strong>5 min: </strong>Early pressure from the home side and Liam Ridgewell firmly met a corner with his head but it was cleared off the line by the Sporting KC defense. Portland were really looking up for this and searching for an early goal.</p>
<p><strong>14 mins: </strong>More opportunities for the home side as Diego Valeri spins on the half way line and puts Lucas Melano into a great position on the right hand side but he decided against the pass to Adi and his shot was blocked. One of these chances needed to go in while the Timbers were on top.</p>
<p><strong>21 mins: </strong>Nagbe picked up a loose ball and surged at the Sporting defense but Adi drifted offside in waiting for the pass and the chance was gone. Portland were still on top and the more likely to score but Caleb Porter would have liked to have seen a goal from a dominant opening 20 minutes.</p>
<p><strong>31 mins: </strong>3 minutes after Sporting KC managed their first shot on target that was collected easily by Kwarasey it was time for another corner for the Portland Timbers and Valeri whipped in an out swinger that was met well by Nat Borchers but his header at pace went wide of the goal.</p>
<p><strong>36 mins: </strong>2 more chances in 2 minutes for the home side as first of all, Alves Powell makes an excellent 30 yard dribble on the ball and laid it off for Adi but Melia manage to get a touch on it as the striker was trying to go around him and then a deep cross from Melano found the head of Wallace but he couldn’t get the free header on target from 8 yards. Everything but a goal so far in the first half for the Portland Timbers who continued to dominate.</p>
<p><strong>45 mins: </strong>Darlington Nagbe went on one of his runs at the heart of the Sporting defense and won a free kick from 25 yards out. Nagbe picked up the ball before Diego Valeri could get to it and took the set piece but it was rather weak and deflected wide of the post. Shortly afterwards the half time whistle blew and although Portland had much the better of the chances in the first half, they could not find the net.</p>
<p><strong>Half Time Score: Portland Timbers 0-0 Sporting Kansas City</strong></p>
<p><strong>Shots: Portland Timbers 8 (2) – 2 (1) Sporting Kansas City</strong></p>
<p><strong>Possession: Portland Timbers 50%-50% Sporting Kansas City</strong></p>
<p><strong> </strong></p>
<p><strong>2<sup>nd</sup> Half:</strong></p>
<p><strong>48 mins: </strong>It was the first time that Sporting KC had found a way past Alves Powell at the by line and a low cross after good work from Nemeth was met by Dominic Dwyer but his shot from 10 yards shaved the upper part of the near post. Sporting KC seemed to feel that it was time to try to attack the home side and had the better opening to the 2<sup>nd</sup> half.</p>
<p><strong>GOAL! 57 mins: </strong>From a corner kick and clearance the ball was looping around the edge of the penalty area and Nat Borchers was able to nod the ball down. Rodney Wallace touched it on and Valeri then touched it back to Wallace who poked the ball into the far corner from around 15 yards. <strong>Portland Timbers 1-0 Sporting Kansas City.</strong></p>
<p><strong>68 mins: </strong>Excellent hold up play from Fanendo Adi followed by a nice touch from Valeri and then Rodney Wallace and Adi exchanged passes which almost put Wallace through but Melia came out to grab the ball and a graze on the left cheek for his troubles. Rodney Wallace was booked perhaps a little unfairly for supposedly scraping the goalkeepers face with his boot as he ran by him.</p>
<p><strong>76 mins: </strong>A flash point in the match as Lucas Melano is brought to the ground and Nemeth kicks the ball at him while he is down, the teams then squared up a little to each other and Amadou Dia threw the ball at Melano while he was down too. Both Sporting players received a yellow card and with Nemeth perhaps lucky not to get booked in the first half for a cynical challenge, one could argue that he was lucky to still be on the pitch.</p>
<p><strong>GOAL! 87 mins: </strong>Just when it looked like the game was dead and buried, a poorly cleared corner by Sporting KC went back out wide to Graham Suzi and he whipped in a cross that Kevin Ellis got in front of Liam Ridgewell for to head the away side level past Kwarasey to level the score. 7 minutes of added time was thrown in at the end due to an injury to KC keeper Melia and it was Sporting KC that smelled blood as the Timbers looked tired and lost the ball on many occasions. <strong>Portland Timbers 1-1 Sporting Kansas City.</strong></p>
<p><strong>Full Time Score: Portland Timbers 1-1 Sporting Kansas City</strong></p>
<p><strong>Shots: Portland Timbers 12 (4)–5 (2) Sporting Kansas City</strong></p>
<p><strong>Possession: Portland Timbers 47% – 53% Sporting Kansas City</strong></p>
<p><strong> </strong></p>
<p><strong>Extra Time:</strong></p>
<p><strong>GOAL! 96 mins: </strong>Nemeth managed to spin around a tired looking Alves Powell on the left wing by the by line and from an acute angle at the left edge of the penalty area he curled a beauty into the top corner past Kwarasey who was rooted to the spot. Portland had started brightly in extra time and the smash and grab was well and truly on once again for Sporting KC. <strong>Portland Timbers 1-2 Sporting Kansas City.</strong></p>
<p><strong>104 mins: </strong>Another corner kick from the Portland Timbers and Diego Valeri sent in an inswinger that was met by the head of Jack Jewsbury but his flying header clears the crossbar by a matter of a couple of inches as the home side push to get back into the game that was in their control for so long.</p>
<p><strong>GOAL! 118 mins: </strong>The Portland substitutes combine to raise the roof off Providence Park as Asprilla fired in a low cross and Urruti fired it home from 7 yards. <strong>Portland Timbers 2-2 Sporting Kansas City.</strong></p>
<p><strong>Full Time Score: Portland Timbers 2-2 Sporting Kansas City</strong></p>
<p><strong>Shots: Portland Timbers 15 (5)–9 (3) Sporting Kansas City</strong></p>
<p><strong>Possession: Portland Timbers 49% – 51% Sporting Kansas City</strong></p>
<p><strong>MOTM: Adam Kwarasey (Portland Timbers)</strong></p>
<p><strong>Penalty Kicks:</strong></p>
<p><strong>Portland: Valeri – Saved 0-0</strong></p>
<p><strong>Sporting: Feilhaber – Scored 0-1</strong></p>
<p><strong>Portland: Borchers – Scored 1-1</strong></p>
<p><strong>Sporting: Dwyer – Saved 1-1</strong></p>
<p><strong>Portland: Ridgewell – Scored 2-1</strong></p>
<p><strong>Sporting: Zusi – Scored 2-2</strong></p>
<p><strong>Portland: Jewsbury – Missed 2-2</strong></p>
<p><strong>Sporting: Besler – Missed 2-2</strong></p>
<p><strong>Portland: Urruti – Scored 3-2</strong></p>
<p><strong>Sporting: Nagamura – Scored 3-3</strong></p>
<p><strong>Portland: Villafana – Missed 3-3</strong></p>
<p><strong>Sporting: Ellis – Missed 3-3</strong></p>
<p><strong>Portland: Asprilla – Scored 4-3</strong></p>
<p><strong>Sporting: Mustivar – Scored 4-4</strong></p>
<p><strong>Portland: Nagbe – Scored 5-4</strong></p>
<p><strong>Sporting: Peterson – Scored 5-5</strong></p>
<p><strong>Portland: Powell – Saved 5-5</strong></p>
<p><strong>Sporting: Abdul-Salaam Missed 5-5</strong></p>
<p><strong>Portland: Fochive – Scored 6-5</strong></p>
<p><strong>Sporting: Dia – Scored 6-6</strong></p>
<p><strong>Portland: Kwarasey – Scored 7-6</strong></p>
<p><strong>Sporting: Kemplin – Saved 7-6</strong></p>
<p><strong>Match Result: Portland Timbers 2 (7) – 2 (6) Sporting Kansas City AET/Penalties</strong></p>
<p><strong>Summary:</strong></p>
<p>One the most exciting finales to a match in MLS history with drama being the operative word for this game. Portland were mostly in control of the game and had the better of the chances and must have felt that they had won the game when Coach Porter brought on George Fochive for Lucas Melano with only 5 minutes remaining but Sporting KC struck to take the game into extra time and then once again in extra time. The away side were just 2 minutes from the ultimate smash and grab when substitutes Asprilla and Urruti combined to take the game to penalties and what a shoot-out that was.</p>
<p>The stadium went from nervousness to elation with every penalty that was missed or scored and Sporting KC had 2 opportunities to win the game with a penalty but couldn’t put the winning one away. Credit to Portland who hung in there and in the end it was Adam Kwarasey that was the hero of the hour as he score his penalty and saved that of Sporting KC keeper Jon Kempin.</p>
<p>Portland march on through to the Western Conference semi-final where they will face the Vancouver Whitecaps. They have 3 days to gather back some energy but do get to play at home once again. What an incredible night here at Providence Park.</p>
<p> </p>
Mark Henty
2015-10-30T06:07:00Z
Portland Timbers 4-1 Colorado Rapids from Providence Park. 3rd place finish for the Timbers.
Mark Henty
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Portland-Timbers-4-1-Colorado-Rapids-from-Providence-Park.-3rd-place-finish-for-the-Timbers./753925835715780485.html
2015-10-26T01:21:00Z
2015-10-26T01:21:00Z
<p><strong>Major League Soccer - Providence Park</strong></p>
<p><strong>10/25/2015 4:00pm: Light Rain, 14C/55F</strong></p>
<p><strong>Attendance: 21,314</strong></p>
<p><strong>Pre-game records: Portland Timbers (W14-D8-L11-50pts) vs. Colorado Rapids (W9-D10-L14-37pts)</strong></p>
<p><strong>Starting Line-ups: </strong></p>
<p><strong>Portland Timbers – </strong>GLK Adam Larsen Kwarasey, DEF Alves Powell, DEF Liam Ridgewell, DEF Nat Borchers, DEF Jorge Villafana, MID Diego Chara, MID George Fochive, MID Darlington Nagbe, FOR Lucas Melano, FOR Rodney Wallace, FWD Fanendo Adi. <strong>Formation: 4-2-3-1.</strong></p>
<p><strong>Colorado Rapids: </strong>GLK, Zac MacMath, DEF Maynor Figueroa, DEF Sean St. Ledger, DEF Axel Sjoberg, DEF Marlon Hairston, MID Lucas Pittinari, MID Marcelo Sarvas, MID Dillon Powers, MID Dominique Badji, MID Luis Solignac, FWD Kevin Doyle. <strong>Formation: 4-2-3-1.</strong></p>
<p><strong>Preview:</strong></p>
<p>The final regular game of the season was to be played at the Rose City and things could not have been more up for grabs for the Portland Timbers. A win and they would be guaranteed a spot in the play-offs with the possibility of skipping the first round should neither the LA Galaxy nor Vancouver Whitecaps win their matches, a draw would ensure a play-off spot but be likely to be drawn away in the one off game, but a defeat may have seen the Timbers slip back out of the play-offs if Seattle Sounders, Sporting KC, and San Jose Earthquakes all won their games.</p>
<p>Colorado had very little but end of season pride to play for and their only change from their last time out winning at Sporting KC was to bring in Marcelo Sarvas for Sam Cronin but the Timbers had everything on the line for the season and their excellent road wins at Real Salt Lake (1-0) and the LA Galaxy (an amazing 5-2), Caleb Porter would have hoped to stick to the winning formation of 4-3-3 that he had switched to with only Diego Chara holding in midfield but the suspension to Diego Valeri influenced his decision to go back to the 4-2-3-1 formation that the home side usually play. George Fochive slotted into midfield next to Diego Chara with Lucas Melano and Rodney Wallace playing wide and Darlington Nagbe taking the central attacking midfield position behind Fanendo Adi.</p>
<p>The rain was belting down at Providence Park for one of the few times this season and with the surface slick, this had all the ingredients to be a game about guts and thunder possibly more than skill. 21,000 fans crammed into the ground as they have done for every game this season, it was expected that the home fans would be partying by 6pm local time but the Colorado Rapids were hoping to spoil the celebrations.</p>
<p><br /> <strong>Match Report:</strong></p>
<p><strong>1<sup>st</sup> Half:</strong></p>
<p><strong>1 min: </strong>Straight into the first attack and Darlington Nagbe wins a free kick from 40 yards out. Floated into the penalty area and Nat Borchers caused problems as head performed some head tennis but Rapids keeper tipped Adi’s final header around the post. Liam Ridgewell got his head to the corner but his attempt went just over the crossbar. The home side looked up for this one.</p>
<p><strong>GOAL!! 4 mins: </strong>Darlington Nagbe looking hungry for this game won a free kick 25 yards from goal and took the free kick himself. He powered it straight over the wall and MacMath completely misjudged it and it nestled in the back of the net. <strong>Portland Timbers 1-0 Colorado Rapids.</strong></p>
<p><strong>GOAL!! 13 mins: </strong>After little pressure from the away side, there was some mix up in the Portland defense and Borchers made a poor clearance that resulted in a clear shot for Dominique Badji whose shot deflects off Liam Ridgewell and sails into the back of the net. The home side sat back after scoring and paid the price. <strong>Portland Timbers 1-1 Colorado Rapids.</strong></p>
<p><strong>19 mins: </strong>Colorado are not here to just lie down as both Kevin Doyle and Maynor Figueroa have decent attempts on goal with Doyle hitting the post. Kwarasey relieved to see the ball go out for a corner. Very nervy play from the home side and the party atmosphere was suddenly turning to nerve-jangling tension.</p>
<p><strong>26 mins: </strong>Some very nice interplay between Nagbe and Adi. Nagbe slipped the ball through for the onrushing Melano but his first touch was just too firm and ran through to MacMath. A difficult take to be fair. Portland were beginning to obtain the upper hand again after a poor 15 minute spell after scoring.</p>
<p><strong>GOAL!! 33 mins: </strong>Some lovely play between Fanendo Adi who brought down the ball and slipped it wide to Melano whose curled cross found the head of Darlington Nagbe and it was the deftest of headers that flew into the bottom corner giving MacMath little chance. World class from Nagbe and his first brace in 3 and a half years. <strong>Portland Timbers 2-1 Colorado Rapids.</strong></p>
<p><strong>45 mins: </strong>Into stoppage time in the first half and Alves Powell cleared before Kevin Doyle could get to a free shot with Kwarasey down after misjudging the low cross from Solignac. A nervy end to the half for the home side as Colorado</p>
<p><strong>Half Time Decision Day Update: </strong>As things stood the Portland Timbers (53pts) would finish in 2<sup>nd</sup> place with LA Galaxy (52pts) and the Vancouver Whitecaps (51pts) drawing their games.</p>
<p><strong>Half Time Score: Portland Timbers 2-1 Colorado Rapids</strong></p>
<p><strong>Shots: Portland Timbers 5 (3) – 6 (2) Colorado Rapids</strong></p>
<p><strong>Possession: Portland Timbers 58%-42% Colorado Rapids</strong></p>
<p><strong> </strong></p>
<p><strong>2<sup>nd</sup> Half:</strong></p>
<p><strong>49 mins: </strong>After a battling first half from Diego Chara who was clearly struggling at the end of the half, he had to come off injured within 4 minutes of the 2<sup>nd</sup> half and Jack Jewsbury came into the game for him. Now with no Will Johnson, Diego Valeri, or Diego Chara on the pitch, the backup players were going to have to put in a real shift to see off a dangerous Colorado Rapids.</p>
<p><strong>GOAL!! 62 mins: </strong>Some true persistence and brilliance from Darlington Nagbe who swapped one-twos with 3 separate players and his final pass was to Jorge Villafana who hit it low and it deflected into the bottom corner of the net. News also came through that the Vancouver Whitecaps had taken the lead against Houston and that would put Vancouver into 2<sup>nd</sup> place and Portland into 3<sup>rd</sup>. <strong>Portland Timbers 3-1 Colorado Rapids.</strong></p>
<p><strong>73 mins: </strong>In the Darlington Nagbe show, he takes the ball all the way from just outside his own penalty area to the edge of the opposing box and slipped the ball wide to Asprilla who hit one from the right corner of the box only to see it hit the post and fall right into the arms of Colorado keeper MacMath. Nagbe had been quite amazing in this match.</p>
<p><strong>80 mins: </strong>Jewsbury found a decent pass to substitute Asprilla who charged up the wing and slid the ball wider to Adi but his cross was poor and deflected back off himself and out for a goal kick. Providence Park was quite literally a party by this time and the fans were singing and dancing as they should because winning your last 3 games when it really matters, including one at the LA Galaxy takes some doing.</p>
<p><strong>GOAL!! 86 mins: </strong>The goal to finish the game and of course Fanendo Adi had to get onto the scoresheet. A fine run out wide right from Asprilla who whipped in a low cross and Adi almost had no idea how it had hit him but it went over the line before the Colorado defense could clear the ball. This had been one excellent display from the home side as the home fans began to sing “I can’t help falling in love with you”. <strong>Portland Timbers 4-1 Colorado Rapids.</strong></p>
<p><strong>Full Time Score: Portland Timbers 4-1 Colorado Rapids</strong></p>
<p><strong>Shots: Portland Timbers 9 (5)–8 (2) Colorado Rapids</strong></p>
<p><strong>Possession: Portland Timbers 51% – 49% Colorado Rapids</strong></p>
<p><strong>MOTM: Darlington Nagbe (Portland Timbers) </strong>He had a magnificent game with 2 goals and an assist plus wonderful skill moves galore. US Coach Jurgen Klinsmann should be in touch very soon.</p>
<p><strong>Summary:</strong></p>
<p>That was as exciting a performance that I have seen from any player since I started watching the Portland Timbers 5 years ago. Darlington Nagbe was involved in everything and showed USMNT coach Jurgen Klinsmann just what he is capable of. 2 goals from him and an assist along with some sublime touches. The whole team played their part though and other mentions go to Fanendo Adi who performed excellent hold up play once again and the defense was solid throughout the game with Villafana and Powell supporting well too. George Fochive looked like a natural alongside Diego Chara and ol’ salty dog Jack Jewsbury took over from Chara well when he had to go off injured.</p>
Portland now face Sporting KC in the play-off round at home after finishing in 3<sup>rd</sup> place in the Western Conference. Quite an achievement considering they were sitting just outside the top 6 with 3 games to go. Coach Porter will be delighted with his team’s performance and believe that this team can go on to play either the LA Galaxy or Seattle Sounders in the Western Conference semifinals.
<p> </p>
Mark Henty
2015-10-26T01:21:00Z
Portland Timbers 0-2 New York Red Bulls from Providence Park
Mark Henty
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Portland-Timbers-0-2-New-York-Red-Bulls-from-Providence-Park/-654206972564706758.html
2015-09-20T23:07:00Z
2015-09-20T23:07:00Z
<p><strong>Major League Soccer - Providence Park</strong></p>
<p><strong>9/20/2015 2:00pm: Partly Cloudy, 26C/79F</strong></p>
<p><strong>Attendance: 21,314</strong></p>
<p><strong>Pre-game records: Portland Timbers (W11-D8-L9-41pts) vs. New York Red Bulls (W13-D6-L8-45pts)</strong></p>
<p><strong>Starting Line-ups: </strong></p>
<p><strong>Portland Timbers – </strong>GLK Adam Larsen Kwarasey, DEF Alves Powell, DEF Liam Ridgewell, DEF Nat Borchers, DEF Jorge Villafana, MID Diego Chara, MID Will Johnson, MID Diego Valeri, MID Darlington Nagbe, MID Lucas Melano, FWD Maximilliano Urruti. <strong>Formation: 4-2-3-1.</strong></p>
<p><strong>New York Red Bulls: </strong>GLK, Luis Robles, DEF Kemar Lawrence, DEF Damien Perrinelle, DEF Matt Miazga, DEF Sal Zizzo, MID Sean Davis, MID Felipe, MID Gonzalo Veron, MID Sacha Kljestan, MID Shaun Wright-Phillips, FWD Bradley Wright-Phillips. <strong>Formation: 4-2-3-1.</strong></p>
<p><strong>Preview:</strong></p>
<p>Coming into the final stretch of the season, this was to be a very important clash between the Portland Timbers and New York Red Bulls. Portland had only 6 games left to solidify a play-off spot in the Western Conference and the new that San Jose had drawn and lost this week gave the team good news ahead of the fixture and a chance to pull away from them in 7<sup>th</sup> place. Caleb Porter had a full roster to pick from and welcomed back Diego Chara and Liam Ridgewell from suspension as well as Alves Powell and Will Johnson from international duty last time out at home. Coach Porter went with Urruti as the lone striker for the first time in a while with Fanendo Adi on the bench.<br /> <br /> New York were in 2<sup>nd</sup> place in the Eastern Conference and were in good for coming into this game winning 4 of their last 6 games with Bradley Wright-Phillips shining once again with 6 goals in his last 7 games. He was joined today by his sibling Shaun Wright-Phillips in a strong lineup that included former Timber Sal Zizzo and Sasha Kljestan. A win today would have put Jesse Marsch’ team top of the table with still games in hand on Columbus Crew and New England Revolution. A gorgeous day with light winds and temperatures into the mid 70s made for the perfect atmosphere on a Sunday afternoon.</p>
<p><br /> <strong>Match Report:</strong></p>
<p><strong>1<sup>st</sup> Half:</strong></p>
<p><strong>7 mins: </strong>New York Red Bulls with a corner. Kljestan swung over a low cross and Sal Sizzo steered it towards goal but there were plenty of defenders in the 6 yard box to scupper the opportunity.</p>
<p><strong>9 mins: </strong>2 minutes later, after some excellent work by Powell and Nagbe, Melano slid the ball through the center and Urruti chased the ball down but he couldn’t make it in time and Robles scooped the ball up. Much better from the home side after a slow start where the Red Bulls looked the more threatening side.</p>
<p><strong>17 mins: </strong>A surging run at the heart of the Portland defense by Sasha Kljestan and Diego Chara was able to prevent him a sight on goal. Kljestan knocked it back for Sean Davis to hit from 28 yards but his shot was high and wide. The attack of the away side was certainly looking the more threatening in the opening 20 minutes.</p>
<p><strong>23 mins: </strong>More pressure from the New York Red Bulls and Portland were having to defend and keep their shape well and this time it was Sean Davis who found a way around Diego Chara and he tried to find the bottom corner but once again, he could not find the target. New York were looking dangerous and the home side was finding it hard to get anything going in an attacking sense.</p>
<p><strong>27 mins: </strong>Another break forward from the Timbers and Lucas Melano spotted Diego Valeri making a diagonal run in from the right flank. Valeri was able to get a shot away, fired low and hard toward the near corner but Robles was able to block it with his left boot. Villafana was then cut down by Zizzo but the referee waved play on. The home side were beginning to get into the game.</p>
<p><strong>32 mins: </strong>A lovely one-two between Villafana and Melano and it’s the former who crossed it in from the left, the ball was nodded out by the New York rear guard and Valeri was there and hit a sweet volley, unfortunately for the home side it hit an offside Lucas Melano who could not get out of the way. Much better from the home team.</p>
<p><strong>34 mins: </strong>Valeri swung in an excellent ball from the left hand side and it fell to Nat Borchers from 8 yards out. His shot flew high over the bar. Not really known for his eye for goal with his feet it’s fair to say.</p>
<p><strong>36 mins: </strong>Jorge Villafana with an awful attempted back pass deep in his own half and Gonzalo Veron found himself clean through on goal from a slight angle to the right. He decided to shoot instead of setup one of 4 team-mates in the penalty area and his shot went wide of the far post.</p>
<p><strong>GOAL! </strong>42 mins: Felipe picked up the ball just inside the Portland half and the Portland defense just dropped off and allowed him to run at them. He hit a shot from 30 yards and it looped over Kwarasey to take the lead. Poor defending from the Timbers there. Felipe went over to the Timbers Army for a celebration that was rather lacking in class. <strong>Portland Timbers 0-1 New York Red Bulls.</strong></p>
<p><strong>GOAL! 45 mins: </strong>It’s another goal for the away side as the Portland defense crumbles once again. This time it’s Damien Perrinelle who heads ball home seconds after New York have an attempt cleared off the line. Portland will be very disappointed with their defending in the last 5 minutes of that half. All to do for the home side in the 2<sup>nd</sup> half. <strong>Portland Timber 0-2 New York Red Bulls.</strong></p>
<p><strong>Half Time Score: Portland Timbers 0-2 New York Red Bulls</strong></p>
<p><strong>Shots: Portland Timbers 5 (1) – 13 (3) New York Red Bulls</strong></p>
<p><strong>Possession: Portland Timbers 41%-59% New York Red Bulls</strong></p>
<p><strong> </strong></p>
<p><strong>2<sup>nd</sup> Half:</strong></p>
<p><strong>46 mins: </strong>Once again the New York Red Bulls almost score. This time from a corner that was not dealt with and both Sasha Kljestan and Bradley Wright-Phillips had shots but thankfully Kwarasey was there for the Timbers or this would have been game over. Portland were looking rattled at this point and there was even a strange quiet around the ground which is very rare for a Portland home game.</p>
<p><strong>52 mins: </strong>Much better pressure from the home side who begun to throw players forward and the ball fell to Will Johnson around 30 yards out and he settled the bell down and hit it. The ball hit the crossbar and over for a goal kick but this was much better from the Timbers. New York seemed to be happy to allow the home side to come onto them.</p>
<p><strong>58 mins: </strong> Coach Porter had seen enough and brought on Fanendo Adi for Urruti. Shortly afterwards, Darlington Nagbe picked the ball up from a messy challenge involving Diego Chara and went towards goal. His shot was low and wide of the target. Portland needed something to happen and fast with only 1 third of the game left.</p>
<p><strong>70 mins: </strong>The Red Bulls were enjoying the way that the game was going. Portland could not get into any rhythm and the away side were making the most of the large amount of stoppages occurring, ensuring the play was broken up as many times as possible. Coach Porter took off a ragged Will Johnson and brought on Rodney Wallace in an attempt to get a goal back and give the home fans something to cheer about.</p>
<p><strong>73 mins: </strong>A chance that pretty much summed up the afternoon for Portland as Valeri swung over the corner and Adi met it from 8 yards out but it went wide of the upright. That was a heck of a chance and he knew it as he held his head in his hands.</p>
<p><strong>80 mins: </strong>One final throw of the dice for Caleb Porter as he brought on Dairon Asprilla for a tiring Alves Powell. Portland went to 3 at the back. New York were quite happy to allow Portland possession of the ball and still broke dangerously with an excellent chance falling to substitute Mike Grella and Kwarasey made an excellent save low to his left. Hopes were fading of a comeback for the home side.</p>
<p>83 mins: Diego Valeri swung over another corner and this time it was Fanendo Adi who met it with his head downwards but the New York Red Bulls rear guard were able to clear it off the line with a fine save from Robles. Less than a minute later Valeri went down in the penalty area and asked for a penalty, the referee turned down his request.</p>
<p><strong>87 mins: </strong>The ball just would not go in for the Timbers as this time Nat Borchers scrambles for the ball and gets to it from a yard out after a save from Robles but the keeper was able to block the shot and the ball spun wide of the post. It was all Portland at this stage but New York had done enough and were happy to allow the home side the ball.</p>
<p><strong>Full Time Score: Portland Timbers 0-2 New York Red Bulls</strong></p>
<p><strong>Shots: Portland Timbers 17 (4)–20 (6) New York Red Bulls</strong></p>
<p><strong>Possession: Portland Timbers 47% – 53% New York Red Bulls</strong></p>
<p><strong>MOTM: Sasha Kljestan (New York Red Bulls)</strong></p>
<p><strong>Summary:</strong></p>
<p>A disappointing afternoon in the Rose City for the Portland Timbers as their hopes of making moves in the play-off positions are beginning to fade a little. 6<sup>th</sup> place at the moment in the Western Conference but they are hitting a poor run of form at the wrong time. 5 games left which include a trip to the LA Galaxy, and Columbus Crew plus tough games against Sporting KC and Real Salt Lake. Lots of endeavor but a lack of cutting edge in the final third. New York deserved their victory and often looked dangerous. New York clinched their spot in the play offs with this victory and will be up there along with the LA Galaxy as favorites for the title. For Caleb Porters men, this was not a great performance, especially in the first half and he will be looking for much more from his team in the final games of the regular season</p>
Mark Henty
2015-09-20T23:07:00Z
Portland Timbers 0-0 Sporting Kansas City from Providence Park
Mark Henty
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Portland-Timbers-0-0-Sporting-Kansas-City-from-Providence-Park/-722082101610435450.html
2015-09-10T04:35:00Z
2015-09-10T04:35:00Z
<p><strong>Major League Soccer - Providence Park</strong></p>
<p><strong>9/9/2015 7:30pm: Partly Cloudy & Mild, 21C/70F</strong></p>
<p><strong>Attendance: 21,314</strong></p>
<p><strong>Pre-game records: Portland Timbers (W11-D7-L9-40pts) vs. Sporting Kansas City (W11-D7-L7-40pts)</strong></p>
<p><strong>Starting Line-ups: </strong></p>
<p><strong>Portland Timbers – </strong>GLK Adam Larsen Kwarasey, DEF Taylor Peay, DEF Norberto Paparatto, DEF Nat Borchers, DEF Jorge Villafana, MID George Fochive, MID Jack Jewsbury, MID Diego Valeri, MID Darlington Nagbe, MID Lucas Melano, FWD Fanendo Adi. <strong>Formation: 4-2-3-1.</strong></p>
<p><strong>Sporting Kansas City: </strong>GLK, Tim Melia DEF Seth Sinovic, DEF Matt Besler, DEF Kevin Ellis, DEF Saad Abdul-Salaam, MID Benny Feilhaber, MID Paulo Nagamura, MID Soni Mustivar, FWD Dominic Dwyer, FWD Graham Zusi, FWD Jacob Peterson. <strong>Formation: 4-3-3</strong></p>
<p><strong>Preview:</strong></p>
<p>As the feel of fall began to settle on the Rose City, the Portland Timbers and Sporting Kansas City prepared to do battle in this important Western Conference encounter at Providence Park. Both teams were sitting on 40 points coming into this game with Sporting having played 2 games fewer than their opponents. Both team form had not been particularly inspiring of late with Portland losing despite a dominant performance in Seattle by 2 goals to 1 and Sporting KC losing by the same score line to the Colorado Rapids in their last outing making it 3 defeats on the spin for them. Both teams were looking for a victory tonight as the San Jose Earthquakes were only 2 points behind these two going into the game ensuring that both of these sides were keeping an eye over their shoulders in the race for play-off spots.</p>
<p>Portland boss Caleb Porter had to reshuffle the pack tonight as both Liam Ridgewell and Diego Chara were suspended while Alvas Powell was still on international duty with Jamaica as was Will Johnson so Porter brought in Jack Jewsbury and George Fochive who performed well against the Seattle Sounders in their last match along with Taylor Peay and Norberto Paparatto. Sporting KC coach Peter Vermes also had Kristian Nemeth out of the line up as he played for Hungary on Monday night and he brought in Jacob Peterson to replace him up front alongside Graham Zusi and Dominic Dwyer in a 4-3-3 formation.</p>
<p><br /> <strong>Match Report:</strong></p>
<p><strong>1<sup>st</sup> Half:</strong></p>
<p><strong>5 mins: </strong>A pretty lively start from both sides and Lucas Melano found himself in plenty of space and took a shot from 30 yards out, hit the shot but misconnected and it rolled comfortable into the arms of Tim Melia</p>
<p><strong>15 mins: </strong>A fairly scrappy period of the game that had lots of effort but lacked in quality early doors but Darlington Nagbe brought the ball out from defense and found Diego Valeri whose pass found Fanendo Adi out wide. Adi stumbled his way forward and tried to find Lucas Melano but his pass was too late and Melano was offside. Scrappy opening.</p>
<p><strong>18 mins: </strong>A simple looping ball was heading towards Kwarasey for a comfortable catch but Paparatto must not have gotten the call. The players both made contact with the ball and it went out for a corner but Sporting KC could not make it count and the corner was poor.</p>
<p><strong>29 mins: </strong>The first real clear cut chance of the game and Adi and Valeri play a one-two and Adi finds himself through and shot from the edge of the box, Melia was up to the task and saved with his feet to his lower left. From the resulting Valeri corner, Paparatto met the ball but was unable to keep the ball down and headed it well over the crossbar.</p>
<p><strong>33 mins: </strong>A throw in deep into the left hand side of attack for Sporting KC and Matt Besler sent it long toward the near post but neither Borchers nor Paparatto could get to it before Abdul-Salaam who flicked it with his head fortunately for the home side straight to the arms of Portland keeper Kwarasey. The away side were looking more and more comfortable on the ball and looking more like the home side as the half wore on. Worrying signs for Coach Porter.</p>
<p><strong>40 mins: </strong>From a Sporting KC throw in that bobbled around in the penalty area, Darlington Nagbe toe poked it on paced and onrushing attacker and broke with real pace, slid it to Valeri just past the halfway line as Nagbe was floored by Nagumara who was booked in the aftermath. The move went on as the referee allowed advantage and Valeri played through Adi who could not get the ball past Melia once again, this time from 8 yards out. Best attack of the game up to this point.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Half Time Score: Portland Timbers 0-0 Sporting Kansas City</strong></p>
<p><strong>Shots: Portland Timbers 8 (2) – 2 (2) Sporting Kansas City</strong></p>
<p><strong>Possession: Portland Timbers 46%-54% Sporting Kansas City</strong></p>
<p><strong> </strong></p>
<p><strong>2<sup>nd</sup> Half:</strong></p>
<p><strong>49 mins: </strong> Some excellent build up play from the Portland Timbers as they push men forward straight from kick off and George Fochive found himself 30 yards out and spread the ball to Villafana who sent in an early cross. Fanendo Adi met it sweetly with his head from 6 yards out but once again Melia foiled his effort and clutched onto the ball. A lively start to the 2<sup>nd</sup> half from the home side.</p>
<p><strong>57 mins: </strong>As the Sporting defense thought that they had quelled any danger from another Portland attack, Valeri snuck around his man and slid an excellent through ball in for Lucas Melano who took a touch and hit it but straight at Melia who was in inspired form tonight. Valeri took the corner and Adi met it but yet again Melia got his hands onto the ball. Melano really should have scored moments earlier but Melia was keeping this to 0-0 somehow.</p>
<p><strong>64 mins: </strong>Both teams fancied this one and as Graham Zusi made an excellent turn and strike to hit the post from around the penalty spot. Truly excellent skill from Zusi. Nagbe picks up the ball and spun away from two to send the ball up the line, Adi nodded it on around the halfway line and Valeri powered on through, his pass low found Melano through on the right hand side. This time he tried to take on Melia but once again the goalkeeper won the duel. Portland were really beginning to get on top at this stage and one felt it was just a matter of time until a goal came as surely Melia can only keep so many shots out.</p>
<p><strong>68 mins: </strong>Chance after chance for the Portland Timbers as Valeri swung over a free kick to beyond the far post and Paparatto headed it back across goal, Nat Borchers followed in just past the other post but couldn’t direct a difficult header onto goal. Portland were completely dominant at this point.</p>
<p><strong>73 mins: </strong>An interesting substitution as Caleb Porter took off Adi and brought on Asprilla switching Melano to the front man with Asprilla on the right hand side as Portland sought out a goal. Incredible that this game was still 0-0, mostly thanks to Sporting KC goalkeeper Tim Melia.</p>
<p><strong>80 mins: </strong>Another excellent steal from Diego Valeri who was orchestrating everything that Portland threw at SKC, his pass found Jack Jewsbury in space who charged forward. The home crowd were crying out for him to shoot and he obliged, but his shot was way wide and over the crossbar. Portland had been dominant in the last third of this game but was it to be yet another frustrating night for Caleb Porter and his men?</p>
<p><strong>83 mins: </strong>Last throw of the dice for Caleb Porter and Portland as they brought on Urruti and Wallace for Fochive and Melano. Within 90 seconds Wallace flew down the left flank and squared the ball back for Urruti but he squalls the shot wide of goal.</p>
<p><strong>90 mins: </strong> A complete miskick from a Sporting defender allows Dairon Asprilla to charge forward on the right hand side. His cross found Urruti’s head but guess what, Tim Melia plucked it out of the air to truly claim this as his night.</p>
<p><strong>Full Time Score: Portland Timbers 0-0 Sporting Kansas City</strong></p>
<p><strong>Shots: Portland Timbers 18 (7)–8 (2) Sporting Kansas City</strong></p>
<p><strong>Possession: Portland Timbers 48% – 52% Sporting Kansas City</strong></p>
<p><strong>MOTM: Tim Melia (Sporting Kansas City</strong></p>
<p><strong>Summary:</strong></p>
Well, the game certainly livened up in the 2<sup>nd</sup> half but it was the same old story for the Portland Timbers who enjoyed many, many chances in this game but just could not put the ball into the net but not the want of trying. Tim Melia had an absolutely barnstorming game and kept out at least half a dozen clear cut chances to earn his side a hard fought draw. Coach Porter of Portland will have badly wanted the points tonight and he could not have done much more with the players available to him. In the 2<sup>nd</sup> half it was backs to the wall for Sporting KC as Portland came at them wave after wave but they held on for a crucial point in the race for the play offs. For Coach Porter? They are still very much in the play offs but with difficult games to come, they must pick up more points to earn <br />
<p> </p>
Mark Henty
2015-09-10T04:35:00Z
Portland Timbers 1-1 Vancouver Whitecaps from Providence Park
Mark Henty
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Portland-Timbers-1-1-Vancouver-Whitecaps-from-Providence-Park/867751530121268529.html
2015-07-19T04:32:00Z
2015-07-19T04:32:00Z
<p><strong>Major League Soccer - Providence Park</strong></p>
<p><strong>7/18/2015 7:30pm: Warm & Clear, 33C/91F</strong></p>
<p><strong>Attendance: 21,314</strong></p>
<p><strong>Pre-game records: Portland Timbers (W9-D4-L7-31pts) vs. Vancouver Whitecaps (W10-D2-L8-32pts)</strong></p>
<p><strong>Starting Line-ups: </strong></p>
<p><strong>Portland Timbers – </strong>GLK Adam Larsen Kwarasey, DEF Alvas Powell, DEF Liam Ridgewell, DEF Nat Borchers, DEF Jorge Villafana, MID Diego Valeri, MID Diego Chara, MID Will Johnson, MID Darlington Nagbe, MID Dairon Asprilla, FWD Fanendo Adi. <strong>Formation: 4-2-3-1.</strong></p>
<p><strong>Vancouver Whitecaps: </strong>GLK David Ousted, DEF Jordan Harvey, DEF Tim Parker, DEF Christian Dean, DEF Steven Beitashour, MID Matias Laba, MID Gershon Koffie, MID Kekuta Manneh, MID Mauro Rosales, MID Nicolas Mezquida, FWD Octavio Rivero. <strong>Formation: 4-2-3-1.</strong></p>
<p><strong>Game 21 of the MLS season:</strong></p>
<p>El Nino was once again in full swing here at Providence Park on another warm, clear evening as the Portland Timbers took on Cascadia Cup rivals Vancouver Whitecaps for a 3<sup>rd</sup> time this season. A win at BC Place for the Whitecaps and a scoreless draw at Providence from the other meetings meant that the Timbers were looking for their first victory over their rivals in this calendar year. <br /> <br /> Both sides were coming into this match off of defeats as the Timbers recent good form came to a halt away to the Philadelphia Union in one of the worst performances of the season for them, and BC lost 1-0 at home to Sporting Kansas City. Timbers Chairman Merritt Paulson splashed the cash this week with the announcement that the club had signed 22 year old Argentine Lucas Melano from Lanus for a club record $5,000,000. Caleb Porter was quoted to have said that he has had his eye on this youngster for some time and was delighted to have been able to get the deal over the line. Clear intentions from the Timbers that they were pushing for more than just a play-off spot this season.</p>
<p><br /> <strong>Match Report:</strong></p>
<p><strong>1<sup>st</sup> Half</strong></p>
<p><strong>13 mins: </strong>After a cagey opening where both sides found it difficult to get their foot on the ball, Nagbe drove at the Whitecaps defense got the ball wide to Adi who dragged the ball back from the byline to find Nagbe again and his header down found Will Johnson and his shot from 20 yards out was just inches wide. Less than a minute later, Kekuta Manneh found himself open at the edge of the penalty area and his low shot was met brilliantly by Kwarasey to keep the score 0-0 as the game found it’s first real chances.</p>
<p><strong>18 mins: </strong> A quick throw in on the right hand side and Chara took advantage of the switched off Whitecaps defense and hit a low cross that fizzed passed everyone including Liam Ridgewell who was just inches away from a connection at the far post.</p>
<p><strong>25 mins: </strong>A Vancouver corner kick was swung in from Borchers and a deflection towards goal was cleared away from Diego Chara as the Whitecaps began to get chances. A minute later Manneh was slid through by Rosales and took the ball around Kwarasey with great skill and his shot from 10 yards out to the right hand side was cleared out for a corner from almost the goal line by Nat Borchers.</p>
<p><strong>31 mins: </strong>Nagbe was at the edge of the box and slid the ball to the left edge of the penalty area where Adi played a blind pass beautifully to put in Valeri but his low shot was saved by Ousted.</p>
<p><strong>33 mins GOAL!: </strong>Diego Chara steals the ball with pace in midfield and finds Adi who in turn slips it through for Valeri and his low shot finds the net! <strong>Portland Timbers 1-0 Vancouver Whitecaps.</strong></p>
<p><strong>41 mins: </strong>A long ball pass from Liam Ridgewell found Adi who chested it down and drilled a volley from 25 yards but it went agonizingly wide of the goal.</p>
<p><strong>Half Time Score: Portland Timbers 1-0 Vancouver Whitecaps </strong></p>
<p><strong>Shots: Portland Timbers 6 (2) – 11 (4) Vancouver Whitecaps</strong></p>
<p><strong>Possession: Portland Timbers 51%-49% Vancouver Whitecaps</strong></p>
<p><strong>2<sup>nd</sup> Half:</strong></p>
<p><strong>51 mins:</strong> <strong> </strong>Nagbe and Valeri combined on the left hand side and Valeri made two amazing rollovers to take it past two defenders but his shot hit the side netting. Shortly afterwards, Valeri’s corner was headed only to the edge of the box and Will Johnson’s low shot was deflected wide as Portland went looking for the 2<sup>nd</sup> goal.</p>
<p><strong>58 mins: </strong>For the first time in the game, the Portlend Timbers took their time to close down the Vancouver attack and it was Matias Laba who took the ball for a good 15 yards and hit one into the far corner to make it. <strong>Portland Timbers 1-1 Vancouver Whitecaps.</strong></p>
<p><strong>64 mins: </strong>Corner was whipped in by Diego Valeri and Fanendo Adi got his head to it from around 6 yards but it was blocked by the Vancouver defence.</p>
<p><strong>69 mins: </strong>Rosales stretches but cannot quite get his header on target after an excellent cross from Tim Parker.</p>
<p><strong>84 mins: </strong>The home side were pressuring but unable to find an intricate route through the defense as they began to dominate and a free kick was one by Chara from 40 yards. Johnson slid the ball low to substitute Fernandez who played a smart 1-2 with another sub Urruti but Fernandez shot was deflected just over the crossbar.<br /><br /><strong>90 mins: </strong>At the final whistle and after a couple of hard challenges on Diego Chara, Will Johson was shown the red card for what looked like dissent toward the referee as things got a little out of hand.</p>
<p><strong>Full Time Score: Portland Timbers 1-1 Vancouver Whitecaps</strong></p>
<p><strong>Shots: Portland Timbers 14 (3)–16 (6) Vancouver Whitecaps</strong></p>
<p><strong>Possession: Portland Timbers 54% – 46% Vancouver Whitecaps</strong></p>
<p><strong> </strong></p>
<p><strong>Summary</strong></p>
A feisty game between two of the western conference better teams and to be fair, the Vancouver Whitecaps played very well in stifling the Timbers attack. Portland tried to play intricate balls through the opposition defense but all too often came up short even though they dominated the second half. Coach Porter brought on Wallace, Urruti, and Fernandez in the second half as Asprilla disappointed again and Nagbe could not find many opportunities to get at the away sides defense but to no avail. In the end, it was a deserved draw obtained by the Vancouver Whitecaps who remained unbeaten against the Portland Timbers this season.<br /> <br />
<p> </p>
Mark Henty
2015-07-19T04:32:00Z
Portland Timbers 1-0 San Jose Earthquakes from Providence Park
Mark Henty
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Portland-Timbers-1-0-San-Jose-Earthquakes-from-Providence-Park/-22526666117791245.html
2015-07-06T05:04:00Z
2015-07-06T05:04:00Z
<p><strong>Major League Soccer - Providence Park</strong></p>
<p><strong>7/5/2015 8pm: Warm & Clear, 30C/86F</strong></p>
<p><strong>Attendance: 21,314</strong></p>
<p><strong>Pre-game records: Portland Timbers (W8-D4-L6-28pts) vs. San Jose Earthquakes (W7-D4-L5-25pts)</strong></p>
<p><strong>Starting Line-ups: </strong></p>
<p><strong>Portland Timbers – </strong>GLK Adam Larsen Kwarasey, DEF Alvas Powell, DEF Liam Ridgewell, DEF Norberto Paparatto, DEF Jorge Villafana, MID Diego Valeri, MID Jack Jewsbury, MID Will Johnson, MID Darlington Nagbe, MID Dairon Asprilla, FWD Fanendo Adi. <strong>Formation: 4-2-3-1.</strong></p>
<p><strong>San Jose Earthquakes: </strong>GLK David Bingham, DEF Marvell Wynne, DEF Victor Bernardez, DEF Clarence Goodson, DEF Jordan Stewart, MID Fatai Alashe, MID Leandro Barrera, MID Shea Salinas, MID Tommy Thompson, MID Jean-Baptiste Pierazzi, FWD Mark Sherrod. <strong>Formation: 4-1-4-1.</strong></p>
<p><strong>Game 19 of the MLS season:</strong></p>
<p>Yet another glorious summer’s day in the Rose City as the Portland Timbers took on the San Jose Earthquakes at Providence Park in a game that was moved from a 2pm kick off to 8pm due to worries over excessive heat as temperatures in the Pacific Northwest got within touching distance of 100F once again. Both of these sides had won their local derby games last weekend with wins over the Seattle Sounders and LA Galaxy respectively. Just 3 points separated the 2 sides going into this game and both were battling their way towards the top of the Western conference standings, so this was an important game the season takes a turn for the home stretch.</p>
<p>Earthquakes coach Dominic Kinnear replaced Chris Wondolowski with Mark Sherrod in attack who played in their defeat to LA Galaxy in the US Open Cup. Caleb Porter rested Borchers, Chara, Wallace, Fernandez and Urruti from their win over the Seattle Sounders and brought in Ridgewell (back from suspension) Jewsbury, Asprilla, and Adi. Were the Portland Timbers going to continue their recent excellent run of form with 5 league wins out of 6 or were the San Jose Earthquakes to be able to make it 3 league wins in a row for them instead? A packed crowd at Providence Park was ready to find out.</p>
<p> <br /> <strong>Match Report:</strong></p>
<p><strong>1<sup>st</sup> Half</strong></p>
<p><strong>14 mins: </strong>Apart from a couple of clashes between Ridgewell and Sherrod, there was little to excite either sets of fans as both teams swapped possession in the opening exchanges. The home side seemed to be missing the engine of Diego Chara and lacking some width and San Jose were doing an excellent job of cutting out any through balls played by the home side.</p>
<p><strong>19 mins: </strong>The first time that Darlington Nagbe found some space in midfield, he slid a quality pass wide left to Villafana but his low shot was parried wide by Bingham. This was the first real opportunity for either side.</p>
<p><strong>24 mins: </strong>A corner was swung in by Salinas and the marking was poor by the home side and Mark Sherrod met it purely with his head and it was cleared off the line by Alvas Powell who appeared to handball it but the referee believed that it came off his shoulder. Poor decision by the referee and the Eartquakes should have had a penalty. A real let off for the Timbers who were struggling to get a foothold in the game.</p>
<p><strong>26 mins: </strong>Alvas Powell found space on the right hand side and whipped in a cross that was cleared out only to Valeri who took a touch for control and then hit it sweet and low but unfortunately for the Timbers, very close to the right side of Bingham who collected calmly.</p>
<p><strong>35 mins: </strong>Diego Valeri found himself out wide right and slipped a good pass into Dairon Asprilla who took a touch and hit a powerful shot just over the crossbar as the Timbers were beginning to take control of the game.</p>
<p><strong>40 mins: </strong>Adi flicked on the ball and Valeri took the ball through to score but the flag did not go up and the referee was the one to make the call and disallow the goal. It was the correct decision but the referee’s assistant did not raise the flag. Still no goals as the Timbers pressed. One minute later Will Johnson hit one from 35 yards and it swerved wide of the post as the Timbers came agonizingly close again.</p>
<p><strong>45 mins: </strong>Jordan Stewart clearly appeared to elbow Asprilla directly into the neck but nothing was given as the assistant on the far side had a rough first half as an understatement. Asprilla was okay to carry on.</p>
<p><strong>Half Time Score: Portland Timbers 0-0 San Jose Earthquakes </strong></p>
<p><strong>Shots: Portland Timbers 9 (3) – 5 (2) San Jose Earthquakes</strong></p>
<p><strong>Possession: Portland Timbers 63%-37% San Jose Earthquakes</strong></p>
<p><strong>2<sup>nd</sup> Half:</strong></p>
<p><strong>51 mins: </strong>Asprilla bursts through the center of the field taking the ball right to the edge of the penalty area and is brought down cynically by Clarence Goodson but it’s only a yellow card as there were other defenders around. Valeri hit it from 23 yards out but it hit the wall as the Timbers started well in the second half looking for the opening goal.</p>
<p><strong>53 mins: </strong>Nagbe picked the ball up just outside his own penalty area from an Earthquakes corner and slid the ball down the line to Valeri who put Villafana through on goal but he was adjudged offside in a very tight call. His shot went wide of the post in any case. Portland were looking dangerous at this point of the game.</p>
<p><strong>57 mins: </strong> Tommy Thompson fired in a decent low shot from outside the box on the right hand side but it trickled past the far post in a rare chance for the away team as the Timbers were really showing some urgency in this 2<sup>nd</sup> half.</p>
<p><strong>68 mins: </strong>Alvas Powell was wide right and had his first attempt at a cross blocked but his second attempt at the byline was a good one and it was Will Johnson who almost met it at the back post but Bingham was right there to block any header toward goal. The game was crying out for a Rodney Wallace at this point as Asprilla was struggling to get anything going.</p>
<p><strong>79 mins: </strong> The game had been in a rut for a good 10 minutes when Caleb Porter decided to bring on Rodney Wallace and Max Urruti for Asprilla and Adi, neither had a particularly good game as the Timbers were struggling to find a finishing touch.</p>
<p><strong>81 mins: </strong>So close for the Timbers as Paparatto rises the highest from a corner swung in and his header is firm but bounces right at the arms of Bingham.</p>
<p><strong>87 mins: </strong>Alvas Powell whipped in a decent cross to the far post and substitute Gaston Fernandez nodded it into the back of the net but it is adjudged offside and the home fans joy turns to anger.</p>
<p><strong>90 mins: </strong> Valeri whipped in a free kick from the left hand side and it deflected off Gaston Fernandez and looped up and there was Jack Jewsbury to loop a shot instinctively over the keeper and defense to win it for the Portland Timbers! <strong>Portland Timbers 1-0 San Jose Earthquakes.</strong></p>
<p><strong>Full Time Score: Portland Timbers 1-0 San Jose Earthquakes</strong></p>
<p><strong>Shots: Portland Timbers 23 (7)–7 (2) San Jose Earthquakes</strong></p>
<p><strong>Possession: Portland Timbers 62% – 38% San Jose Earthquakes</strong></p>
<p><strong> </strong></p>
<p><strong>Summary</strong></p>
What was one of the more forgettable games of the season at Providence Park as the Timbers probed and proded but could not find a way through a resilient San Jose defense until Jack Jewsbury popped home an injury time winner. Caleb Porter went with only Asprilla as a natural winger for this game and he did not have the best game and Villafana was not as effective as he had been in previous games. Dominic Kinnear will have gone home quite happy with a point after soaking up the pressure but it was not to be as the home side snatched it at the death. Portland have scored more goals in the last 15 minutes than any other team in the MLS and they are now on a run of 6 wins out of 7 games and once again climbing the league table.
<p> </p>
Mark Henty
2015-07-06T05:04:00Z
Portland Timbers 4-1 Seattle Sounders from Providence Park
Mark Henty
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Portland-Timbers-4-1-Seattle-Sounders-from-Providence-Park/-194035084722767564.html
2015-06-29T01:15:00Z
2015-06-29T01:15:00Z
<p><strong>Major League Soccer - Providence Park</strong></p>
<p><strong>06/28/2015: Warm & Humid, 30C/86F</strong></p>
<p><strong>Attendance: 21,314</strong></p>
<p><strong>Pre-game records: Portland Timbers (W7-D4-L6-25pts) vs. Seattle Sounders (W9-D2-L6-29pts)</strong></p>
<p><strong>Starting Line-ups: </strong></p>
<p><strong>Portland Timbers – </strong>GLK Adam Larsen Kwarasey, DEF Alvas Powell, DEF Nat Borchers, DEF Norberto Paparatto, DEF Jorge Villafana, MID Diego Valeri, MID Diego Chara, MID Will Johnson, MID Darlington Nagbe, MID Gaston Fernandez, FWD Maximiliano Urruti. <strong>Formation: 4-2-3-1.</strong></p>
<p><strong>Seattle Sounders: </strong>GLK Stefan Frei, DEF Oniel Fisher, DEF Jimmy Ockford, DEF Zach Scott, DEF Dylan Remick, MID Gonzalo Pineda, MID Michael Azira, MID Aaron Kovar, MID Cristian Roldan, MID Marco Pappa, FWD Lamar Neagle. <strong>Formation: 4-2-3-1.</strong></p>
<p><strong>Game 18 of the MLS season:</strong></p>
<p>After a record breaking week for heat in the Pacific Northwest, the Rose City hosted another Cascadia Cup meeting between the Portland Timbers and the Seattle Sounders. The Sounders won their first league meeting this season in Seattle but in the last contest between these two, it was the Timbers who ran out 3-1 winners away after extra time in a controversial game that saw 3 players sent off for the Sounders (including Clint Dempsey’s infamous referee notebook ripping up incident) and Obafemi Martins taken off injured leaving the Sounders with just 7 men on the pitch come the end of the game.</p>
<p>With both Martins and Dempsey missing the Sounders had to try to rely on Lemar Neagle and Marco Pappa for goals if they were going to commit at smash and grab at Providence Park. Meanwhile, Liam Ridgewell got himself off for the Timbers last time out as they were thrashed by the LA Galaxy away meaning that Nat Borchers and Norberto Paparatto would be the central defense partnership on the night. Both sides lost in midweek as Seattle also lost 1-0 at the Philadelphia Union for only the 2<sup>nd</sup> time in the league this season. If Portland won tonight, it would put them just 1 point behind the Sounders and so Caleb Porter’s men had plenty of incentive to look for another 3 points at home.</p>
<p><br /> <strong>Match Report:</strong></p>
<p><strong>1<sup>st</sup> Half</strong></p>
<p><strong>8 mins: </strong>After a pretty open start, Will Johnson decided to hit one from around 35 yards and the ball was deflected back into the path of Fanendo Adi who’s shot was also deflected and Frei made a decent save.</p>
<p><strong>12 mins: GOAL! </strong>Darlington Nagbe finds room through the center after a pass from Diego Valeri and Nagbe’s shot flies past Frei in the Seattle goal from 25 yards at the near post. <strong>Portland Timbers 1-0 Seattle Sounders.</strong></p>
<p><strong>17 mins: </strong>Gaston Fernandez laid the ball for Diego Chara who struck a low shot from 25 yards but Frei was able to gather well. The Portland Timbers once again dominated possession in the first 20 minutes at home and were first to the ball on many occasions looking the hungrier of the two sides.</p>
<p><strong>20 mins: </strong>Another attack from the home side as Gaston Fernandez played a breakout ball from the edge of his own penalty area and set Alves Powell free on the right hand side, his shot was low and Frei was able to collect once again.</p>
<p><strong>30 mins: </strong>Another lovely move from defense from the home side as Valeri, Fernandez, and Adi setup Nagbe who went looking for his 2<sup>nd</sup> but his shot was just inches wide of the far post with Frei beaten.</p>
<p><strong>37 mins: </strong>A decent opportunity to get onto the end of a ball from Andy Rose for the Seattle Sounders but Michael Azira just could not connect in a rare attack for the Seattle Sounders and Rose is furious that Azira could not connect.</p>
<p><strong>39 mins: GOAL! </strong>A free kick won by Marco Pappa was swung in from the left hand side by Tyrone Mears and it flew over everyone except Lamar Neagle who snuck in at the back post to volley home comfortable and make it 1-1. Kwarasey didn’t come for it and Borchers did not connect as poor defensive mistakes cost the Timbers once again this season. <strong>Portland Timbers 1-1 Seattle Sounders.</strong></p>
<p><strong> </strong></p>
<p><strong>Half Time Score: Portland Timbers 1-1 Seattle Sounders </strong></p>
<p><strong>Shots: Portland Timbers 10-3 Seattle Sounders</strong></p>
<p><strong>Possession: Portland Timbers 50%-50% Seattle Sounders</strong></p>
<p><strong>2<sup>nd</sup> Half:</strong></p>
<p><strong>60 mins: </strong>Some lovely work on the break after a spell of Seattle pressure as Chara found Powell on the right wing and his cross was almost pinpoint perfect for Adi but he just couldn’t reach it.</p>
<p><strong>62 mins: </strong>As the Timbers began to try to get on top once again, Valeri orchestrated a move in which he traded passes with Villafana on the left hand side and the knocked it into Fernandez who put it back into Valeri’s path but his curled low shot from just outside the box went just wide of the far post.</p>
<p><strong>68 mins: </strong>Borchers won the ball deep inside his own half after a 5 go game of head tennis, he found Nagbe with a sweet low pass who then knocked it onto Fernandez who wriggled around Evans but his shot was saved once again by Frei as the home side took a foothold once again in the match. Valeri came off for Rodney Wallace. Fitness probably the reason as Valeri was pulling the string in that Timbers midfield.</p>
<p><strong>73 mins: </strong>Rodney Wallace won the ball with excellent reading of the intentions of the Seattle defender and combined with Nagbe who knocked it wide to Powell and his low cross almost found Wallace again but he scuffed his shot while off balance. Portland were turning up the heat once again.</p>
<p><strong>74 mins: GOAL! </strong>Nagbe was released through and made one of his classic mazy runs and he nonchalantly found Adi who turned and swept it high into the net to take a deserved lead. <strong>Portland Timbers 2-1 Seattle Sounders.</strong></p>
<p><strong>76 mins: GOAL! </strong>Rodney Wallace made a heck of an impact since coming on and won the ball from Seattle almost straight from the kick off, his pass to Adi was excellent and Adi fired low and hard into the net for yet another brace this season for the striker. <strong>Portland Timbers 3-1 Seattle Sounders.</strong></p>
<p><strong>90 mins: GOAL: </strong> Substitute Urruti came on for Gaston Fernandez for the last 10 minutes or so and jinxed through the middle of the Seattle defense for one last hoorah as he slipped in Rodney Wallace who had been excellent since coming on also and Wallace made no mistake to finish of the rout as the home fans went nuts one more time. <strong>Portland Timbers 4-1 Seattle Sounders.</strong></p>
<p><strong>Summary</strong></p>
<p>5 wins in 6 games for the Portland Timbers who are proving to now be a force to be reckoned with. Seattle may well have been without Clint Dempsey and Obafemi Martins but the home side played with a swagger at home that has been growing in the past month or so and the clinical finishing was there for all to see and Caleb Porter must be delighted with how his team and indeed squad are performing. For Seattle, this is 2 defeats in a row for them and 3 if you include the MLS Cup loss again to the Timbers, and so they need to regroup and continue to push for the Supporters shield. The home crowd? Well, what can you say, they went home very, very happy in a rather one sided affair. <br /> <br /> <strong>Full Time Score: Portland Timbers 4-1 Seattle Sounders</strong></p>
<p><strong>Shots: Portland Timbers 23 (11)–6 (1) Seattle Sounders</strong></p>
<p><strong>Possession: Portland Timbers 47% – 53% Seattle Sounders</strong></p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
Mark Henty
2015-06-29T01:15:00Z
Portland Timbers 2-0 Houston Dynamo from Providence Park
Mark Henty
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Portland-Timbers-2-0-Houston-Dynamo-from-Providence-Park/-49800036417990283.html
2015-06-21T04:28:00Z
2015-06-21T04:28:00Z
<p><strong>Major League Soccer - Providence Park</strong></p>
<p><strong>06/20/2015: Sunny, 26C/79F</strong></p>
<p><strong>Attendance: 21,314</strong></p>
<p><strong>Pre-game records: Portland Timbers (W6-D4-L5-22pts) vs. Houston Dynamo (W5-D5-L5-20pts)</strong></p>
<p><strong>Starting Line-ups: </strong></p>
<p><strong>Portland Timbers – </strong>GLK Adam Larsen Kwarasey, DEF Alvas Powell, DEF Liam Ridgewell, DEF Norberto Paparatto, DEF Jorge Villafana, MID Rodney Wallace, MID Diego Chara, MID Will Johnson, MID Darlington Nagbe, MID Gaston Fernandez, FWD Maximiliano Urruti. <strong>Formation: 4-2-3-1.</strong></p>
<p><strong>New England Revolution: </strong>GLK Tyler Deric, DEF DaMarcus Beasley, DEF Raul Rodriguez, DEF David Horst, DEF Kofi Sarkodie, MID Alexander Lopez, MID Ricardo Clark, MID Luis Garrido, MID Nathan Sturgis, MID Leonel Miranda, FWD Will Bruin. <strong>Formation: 4-5-1.</strong></p>
<p><strong>Game 16 of the MLS season:</strong></p>
<p>It was another glorious day in the Rose City of Portland as the Timbers took on the Houston Dynamo at Providence Park. The home side had hit a real run of form with 3 league wins (and 1 U.S. Open Cup victory at Seattle) on the spin and were looking to continue their rise up the MLS standings. Caleb Porter almost had a full deck to choose from and there is little doubt that the returns of Diego Valeri and Will Johnson from long injury lay-offs had inspired the team in recent weeks. The away side were hoping to grab something to help improve their indifferent season thus far with recent form beginning to shows signs of improvement and Will Bruin on 7 goals and Giles Barnes on 6 for the season thus far, the latter was not available for selection as he was with the Jamaica squad in Chile for the Copa America.</p>
<p><br /> <strong>Match Report:</strong></p>
<p><strong>1<sup>st</sup> Half</strong></p>
<p><strong>10 mins: </strong>The Timbers attacked from the outset and dominated the first 10 minutes without really creating too many chances as the Houston Dynamo sat back and from the outset looked to soak up pressure and hope to break on the counter attack. Even Will Bruin was finding himself going deep as the away side found it difficult to get their foot on the ball.</p>
<p><strong>12 mins: </strong>As Portland looked to create on the offensive, Gaston Fernandez fired the first real attempt on goal of the evening from just outside the penalty area centrally but his shot went wide of the right hand post. All Portland in the early stages.</p>
<p><strong>16 mins: </strong>Goal disallowed for the Houston Dynamo for a foul on Villafana from the corner. The ball nestles in the back of the net but it was a foul by Raul Rodriguez according to referee Toledo.</p>
<p><strong>30 mins: </strong>Still no score but the Houston Dynamo were beginning to get into the game and match the home side in possession much to the frustration of Caleb Porter who had some stern words for Gaston Fernandez and Darlington Nagbe while DaMarcus Beasley was receiving treatment. Liam Ridgewell to a ball to the face shortly afterwards that might knock many down but he got up and battled on. The referee checked that he was okay and Liam adjusted his socks for proof as he likes to do almost 60 times in any single game.</p>
<p><strong>35 mins: </strong>Darlington Nagbe won a free kick on the left hand side about 40 yards from goal and Jorge Villafana swung over a beauty for Urruti to head into the net from 12 yards past Deric. <strong>Portland Timbers 1-0 Houston Dynamo.</strong></p>
<p><strong>38 mins: </strong>Alves Powell tried a cheeky chip-cross at goal and Deric was almost caught out as he just got a hand to it to tip it over the crossbar. The Portland Timbers were really beginning to dominate again winning plenty of corners. As the half time whistle blew, the home side will have been happy to have broken the deadlock but feel that they could have been up by 2 with the pressure that they applied at the end of the half particularly.</p>
<p><strong>Half Time Score: Portland Timbers 1-0 Houston Dynamo </strong></p>
<p><strong>Shots: Portland Timbers 3-4 Houston Dynamo</strong></p>
<p><strong>Possession: Portland Timbers 56%-44% Houston Dynamo</strong></p>
<p><strong>2<sup>nd</sup> Half:</strong></p>
<p><strong>52 mins: </strong>Quite a strange game for taking the ball straight to the face as Liam Ridgewell accidentally smacks it right to the head of Will Bruin. Ridgewell took one to the head in the first half himself. Bruin looked a little dazed but was okay to continue thankfully.</p>
<p><strong>60 mins: Penalty! </strong> David Horst fouled Jorge Villafana in the penalty area while a corner was floated in and receives a booking, more importantly, it was a penalty kick to the home side. Gaston Fernandez fires home into the bottom right hand corner. <strong>Portland Timbers 2-0 Houston Dynamo.</strong></p>
<p><strong>70 mins: </strong>Another booking for the away side as Garrido commits a foul. The Portland Timbers take the free kick and it’s another beauty from the excellent Villafana, Wallace got a touch on it and it almost fell for Liam Ridgewell but it was just inches too far in front of him. The home side were looking supremely comfortable at this point.<strong> </strong></p>
<p><strong>75 mins: </strong>Valeri made a pretty swift impact as he cut inside from the left after excellent work from Urruti to win the ball on the half way line. Valeri’s shot is deflected and it almost scrambles to Will Johnson who was just itching to hit it but it was cleared by the last defender.</p>
<p><strong>84 mins: </strong>As the Timbers took their foot of the gas and allowed the away side to come on to them, Garrido found himself inside the box and although stumbling to control the ball, he somehow managed an athletic shot that looped over Kwarasey and onto the crossbar. Houston did fight right to the very end.</p>
<p><strong>Summary</strong></p>
<p>The Portland Timbers another well-deserved victory as they made it 4 straight league victories in a row (5 wins in a row if you include the MLS Open Cup win at Seattle). Urruti and Fernandez are gelling well and when you have Diego Valeri and Fanendo Adi to bring on, Caleb Porter must be really enjoying the way that the Timbers are playing. High possession and a sound defensive pack are making for a good recipe right now and as this team faces 5 games in 15 days (this being the first), they have a decent looking squad that has plenty of players that can come in and rotate with the first XI. <strong></strong></p>
<p>For the Houston Dynamo, disappointment for coach Owen Coyle but his team are certainly strong enough to still mount a challenge and make the play offs and it was never going to be easy without Giles Barnes who was on international duty with Jamaica and having to face a team in such good form. Caleb Porter will be delighted with the result and if his team can keep this going, they might find themselves in with a shout of the Supporters Shield come the end of the season.<br /> <br /> <strong>Full Time Score: Portland Timbers 2-0 Houston Dynamo</strong></p>
<p><strong>Shots: Portland Timbers 6 (2)–9 (1) Houston Dynamo</strong></p>
<p><strong>Possession: Portland Timbers 52% – 48% Houston Dynamo</strong></p>
<p><strong>MOTM: Jorge Villafana</strong></p>
Mark Henty
2015-06-21T04:28:00Z
Puma EvoSpeeds 1.3 emulate the Dragon
Gio Franco
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Puma-EvoSpeeds-1.3-emulate-the-Dragon/402173492259468570.html
2015-06-12T21:48:00Z
2015-06-12T21:48:00Z
<p>Our friends from <a title="Puma homepage " href="http://us.puma.com/en_US/home?locale=en_US&mktID=PL:Brand%20Marketing:Puma.com-CatchAllPage:United%20States-en&plinkID=Brand" target="_blank">Puma</a> recently released the new EvoSpeeds 1.3 boot in a graphic design. The design features a Japanese Dragon, which was the symbol for speed, power, wisdom, and agility. Much like the Japanese Dragon the EvoSpeeds was designed for speed and agility. Players like Sergio Aguero, Marco Reus, Radamel Falcao, Antoine Griezmann, Marco Verratti and Santi Cazorla are currently wearing these boots.</p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/EvoSpeeds 1.3 1.jpg" alt="" width="350" height="300" />I personally have had the privilege of having these wonderful cleats for about two weeks now and upon unboxing the shoe is very flashy but not too flashy as if it were painted neon. The "flash" comes from the very beautiful dragon depiction and the colors that are used to contrast the graphic.</p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/EvoSpeeds 1.3 2 .jpg" alt="" width="325" height="290" />I have put these boots to the test on all fields from artificial turf fields to fields with real "grass" but the multiple patches of crab grass all over loosely define grass. These cleats perform well on all fields fake or real; in fact the shoes have a bit of scale like design on them. Which I have found that it seems to have a bit of an advantage in the criteria of one's first touch.</p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/EvoSpeeds 1.3 3 .jpg" alt="" width="320" height="315" />The first touch with these cleats by <a title="Puma Dragon Graphic homepage " href="http://us.puma.com/en_US/sports/sports/soccer" target="_blank">Puma</a> is absolutely sublime especially if you have a pet peeve in regards to one's first touch on the ball. Another feature to these boots they are super light weight. The point that the boot is lightweight is a major attribute when it comes to being quick on the ball.</p>
<p><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/EvoSpeeds 1.3 4.jpg" alt="" width="400" height="300" />The last set of boots I received was the red/bright pink EvoSpeeds and the difference one can find on the shoes is the scale like design. The scales must add an extra sense of adhesion when the ball comes into contact with the boot. Comparing the two EvoSpeeds together the graphic dragon design boot offers a better first touch than the bright EvoSpeeds.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Everyone has different feet and your feet are different than mine, my feet are in fact a bit wide at the mouth closest to the toes. The only thing I have found to be off about the boot is that occasionally I feel like the sides of my feet feel like they will slip out. That is the only thing I have with these shoes other than that they are absolutely fantastic. The fact that my "fat feet" occasionally feel off after playing 70 minutes straight the problem isn't much the boot but more along the lines of my DNA. </p>
<p><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/EvoSpeeds 1.3 5 .jpg" alt="" width="345" height="600" /></p>
Gio Franco
2015-06-12T21:48:00Z
Portland Timbers 2-0 New England Revolution from Providence Park
Mark Henty
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Portland-Timbers-2-0-New-England-Revolution-from-Providence-Park/415257618932501067.html
2015-06-07T04:43:00Z
2015-06-07T04:43:00Z
<p><strong>Major League Soccer - Providence Park</strong></p>
<p><strong>06/6/2015: Sunny, 30C/86F</strong></p>
<p><strong>Attendance: 21,314</strong></p>
<p><strong>Pre-game records: Portland Timbers (W5-D4-L5-19pts) vs. New England Revolution (W5-D6-L3-21pts)</strong></p>
<p><strong>Starting Line-ups: </strong></p>
<p><strong>Portland Timbers – </strong>GLK Adam Larsen Kwarasey, DEF Alvas Powell, DEF Liam Ridgewell, DEF Nat Borchers, DEF Jorge Villafana, MID Dairon Asprilla, MID Diego Chara, MID Will Johnson, MID Darlington Nagbe, MID Gaston Fernandez, FWD Maximiliano Urruti. <strong>Formation: 4-2-3-1.</strong></p>
<p><strong>New England Revolution: </strong>GLK Bobby Shuttleworth, DEF Chris Tierney, DEF Jose Goncalves, DEF Andrew Farrell, DEF London Woodberry, MID Andy Dorman, MID Scott Caldwell, MID Kelyn Rowe, MID Teal Bunbury, MID Lee Nguyen, FWD Charlie Davies. <strong>Formation: 4-2-3-1.</strong></p>
<p><strong>Game 15 of the MLS season:</strong></p>
<p>After a hot and summery day in the Rose City of Portland, the Portland Timbers and the New England Revolution faced off in what was to be their only league meeting this season. Portland had come off of two straight victories and the most recent of those was a late smash and grab victory over the Colorado Rapids 2-1 away from home the previous weekend. New England had drawn their last two games coming into this match with a 2-2 draw at home to the LA Galaxy being their most recent fixture. Portland were sitting in 6<sup>th</sup> place in the western conference on 19pts, looking to continue to climb up the league and the Revolution sat in 2<sup>nd</sup> place in the eastern conference even though they only had two more points than the Timbers going into the game.</p>
<p><br /> <strong>Match Report:</strong></p>
<p><strong>1<sup>st</sup> Half</strong></p>
<p><strong>3 mins: </strong>2 chances within the first 3 minutes for the Timbers as first, Gaston Fernandez charges through the middle but scuffs his shot from 20 yards well wide. 90 seconds later, Darlington Nagbe bursts through the center and jinks his way to the edge of the penalty area but he drags his low shot just wide of the left hand post in a positive start for the Portland Timbers.</p>
<p><strong>11 mins: </strong> A lovely piece of combination play between Chara, Nagbe, Fernandez and Urruti and it’s the latter who shoots from the edge of the penalty area and the ball lands just wide of the far post with Shuttleworth looking on stranded.</p>
<p><strong>19 mins: </strong>The first real chance for the New England Revolution as Andy Dorman wriggles free of Liam Ridgwell and his shot is smothered by Kwarasey. Immediately after, Asprilla’s cross from the right hand side is cleared to Fernandez who lays it off for Will Johnson but his low shot misses the target to the left.</p>
<p><strong>32 mins: </strong>A number of corner kicks for New England as they began to settle into the game and took the sting out of Portland’s attacks who will have felt that they should have at least put one of those early shots on target. The Timber were able to clear each corner well but there were signs that the away side were very able to impose pressure of their own.</p>
<p><strong>33 mins: </strong>Nagbe bursts through the center once again and fires a beauty toward the top corner from 25 yards but Shuttleworth tips it around the post acrobatically to deny the Timbers midfielder. Finally, a shot on target from the Timbers from 6 attempts.</p>
<p><strong>Half Time Score: Portland Timbers 0-0 New England Revolution </strong></p>
<p><strong>Shots: Portland Timbers 6-3 New England Revolution</strong></p>
<p><strong>Possession: Portland Timbers 47%-53% New England Revolution</strong></p>
<p><strong>2<sup>nd</sup> Half:</strong></p>
<p><strong>51 mins: </strong>Nagbe wriggled free once again and fired from just outside the box but Shuttleworth palmed it away and just 1 minute later Will Johnson played it through to Asprilla who turned and shot from a wide angle but it skidded wide of the left hand post as the Timbers try to apply some early pressure to the Revolution goal.</p>
<p><strong>60 mins: </strong>Charlie Davies took a run at Nat Borchers and won the battle with pace but his shot from a tight angle on the left was dragged wide of the goal and the danger passed for the Timbers. After an 8-10 minutes of Portland chances the game had become rather messy with a lack of real flow as the home crowd began to get a little restless.</p>
<p><strong>75 mins: </strong>Nagbe whipped over a beauty of a cross that Adi won and nodded it back over to Urruti who heads it powerfully goal wards but Shuttleworth is up to it yet again as the Timber began to turn the screw once again as they searched for that winning goal.</p>
<p><strong>86 mins: </strong> Darlington Nagbe won a free kick 30 yards out on the left side of the pitch and Villafana takes it quickly and it lands perfectly onto Adi’s head into the far corner to finally open the scoring. <strong>Portland Timbers 1-0 New England Revolution.</strong></p>
<p><strong>88 mins: </strong>Nagbe squirmed another cute little pass to Chara who released Villafana down the right hand side and his pinpoint low cross found Adi again who made no mistake and grabbed a double to make it 2-0 and sealed the Portland Timbers third win in a row. <strong>Portland Timbers 2-0 New England Revolution.</strong></p>
<p><strong>Summary:</strong></p>
<p>The Portland Timbers started the game looking as though they would tear apart the New England defense and although they broke with pace, their shooting boots were simply left at home on this occasion but after a frustrating night in which Asprilla was stretchered off, the Timbers finally came good with just a few minutes to go after dominating the game chance wise even though for much of the game New England had more of the possession.</p>
<p>That’s the third win in a row for Caleb Porter’s men who are now 4<sup>th</sup> in the western conference and beginning to look like serious contenders not only for the play-offs but also possibly for the supporters shield if they can keep it going. With Johnson back in the midfield alongside Chara and a solid defense that doesn’t leak goals, they have a solid base and if Adi and company up front can continue to strike when it matter, the season could end very well for the Portland Timbers.<br /> <br /> <strong>Full Time Score: Portland Timbers 2-0 New England Revolution</strong></p>
<p><strong>Shots: Portland Timbers 19–4 New England Revolution</strong></p>
<p><strong>Possession: Portland Timbers 50% – 50% New England Revolution</strong></p>
<p> </p>
Mark Henty
2015-06-07T04:43:00Z
Soccer for Success comes to the Weingart YMCA in East LA
Gio Franco
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Soccer-for-Success-comes-to-the-Weingart-YMCA-in-East-LA/898128761738246789.html
2015-05-21T21:44:00Z
2015-05-21T21:44:00Z
<p>The <a title="Mia Hamm Foundation Homepage " href="http://www.miafoundation.org/" target="_blank">Mia Hamm Foundation</a>, <a title="US Soccer homepage " href="http://www.ussoccer.com/" target="_blank">US Soccer</a> and the <a title="US Soccer Foundation Homepage " href="http://www.ussoccerfoundation.org/" target="_blank">US Soccer Foundation</a>, Wednesday afternoon officially brought the Soccer for Success program to East Los Angeles. The Mia Hamm Foundation along with <a title="Nike Soccer Homepage " href="http://www.nike.com/us/en_us/c/football" target="_blank">Nike</a> is providing a grant that will send 250 girls from the East Los Angeles area into the Soccer for Success program at the <a title="Weingart YMCA Homepage " href="http://www.ymcala.org/weingart-wellness" target="_blank">Weingart YMCA</a>.</p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Mia Hamm drills uswnt .jpg" alt="" width="400" height="295" /></p>
<p>The <a title="Soccer for Success webpage " href="http://www.ussoccerfoundation.org/our-programs/soccer-for-success" target="_blank">Soccer for Success program</a> has made a positive impact in over 55,000 girls' lives since its creation in 2009. The after-school program is free and helps use soccer as tool to teach a healthier, active lifestyle to the girls of the community. The event at the YMCA Wednesday was also part of the “She Believes in Her Community" campaign.</p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Christen Amy and Mia QA .jpg" alt="" width="450" height="350" /></p>
<p>The <a title="She Believes in Her Community webpage " href="http://www.ussoccer.com/womens-national-team" target="_blank">“She Believes in Her Community”</a> campaign is a weeklong celebration where the US Women’s National Team players will be giving back to their local communities. The celebration will focus on special events for young kids in their local communities. The #SheBelieves campaign was conceived and developed by the players. The campaign is a message to young girls that they can accomplish all their goals and dreams.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Soccer for Success girls drills East Los .jpg" alt="" width="385" height="260" /> </p>
<p>The event on Wednesday at the Weingart YMCA had featured two current members of the <a title="USWNT Twitter Handle " href="https://twitter.com/ussoccer_wnt" target="_blank">US Women’s National Team</a>, <a title="Amy Rodriguez twitter handle " href="https://twitter.com/amyrodriguez8" target="_blank">Amy Rodriguez</a> and <a title="Christen Press Twitter Handle " href="https://twitter.com/christenpress" target="_blank">Christen Press</a>. The legendary <a title="Mia Hamm Twitter Handle " href="https://twitter.com/miahamm" target="_blank">Mia Hamm</a> was also in attendance with her foundation to answer questions from the young girls and members of the media. The 100 girls who participated in the actual event on Wednesday got an opportunity to meet Amy, Christen, and Mia and ask them questions about their own personal experiences and advice in the game today. </p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Amy and Christen I believe we will win .jpg" alt="" width="685" height="490" /></p>
<p>The host of the event, <a title="Monica Gonzalez's Twitter Handle " href="https://twitter.com/monicagonzo" target="_blank">Monica Gonzalez</a>, actually asked one Amy Rodriguez one of the most fascinating questions of the Q&A. “How hard was it to return to playing after taking a year off playing and training to have a baby?” Amy Rodriguez’s response was truthful and optimistic for those that want to be involved in the women’s game today. <br /><br />The moment when Monica asks the question in the video is at 21st minute.</p>
<p> </p>
Gio Franco
2015-05-21T21:44:00Z
Can Tim Sherwood's Aston Villa beat Arsenal to win the FA Cup?
Rafa Gonzales
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Can-Tim-Sherwoods-Aston-Villa-beat-Arsenal-to-win-the-FA-Cup/-775246849596149156.html
2015-05-15T19:01:00Z
2015-05-15T19:01:00Z
<p>Since Tim Sherwood was appointed as manager after the dismissal of Paul Lambert, Aston Villa have regained some form and have played some excellent football. The former Tottenham boss has led the club to their <a title="UEFA News" href="http://www.uefa.com/memberassociations/association=eng/news/newsid=2235726.html" target="_blank">first FA Cup final since 2000</a> and has helped Villa climb out of the relegation battle. We take a look at the upcoming final, which will be played on May 30th, and give our thoughts on who may come out on top. For more FA Cup news and odds, or just more general football news, <a title="FA Cup News and Odds" href="http://www.bookies.com/compare-odds/football" target="_blank">click here</a>.<br /><br /><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/FA_Cup_Final_2014_Wembley_stadium.jpg" alt="" width="400" /></p>
<p><strong>Villa have been sensational under Sherwood</strong></p>
<p> </p>
<p><img style="float: right; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Chelsea_3_Aston_Villa_0_(15185655599).jpg" alt="Aston Villa Beat Chelsea FC" width="300" />The Villains have improved significantly during Sherwood’s brief tenure at the club and their stronger players are beginning to regain confidence in front of goal. Belgium international Christian Benteke has scored <a title="News on Benteke" href="http://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/news/aston-villas-christian-benteke-europes-5663704" target="_blank">11 goals in his last 12 matches</a> under Sherwood’s guidance, while the likes of Tom Cleverley and Gabriel Agbonlahor have also been in great form. If they continue to perform at a high standard, Villa will certainly be able to compete with Arsenal and with a bit of luck, will be lifting the famous trophy for the first time since 1957. </p>
<p><strong>The pressure is all on the Gunners</strong></p>
<p> </p>
<p>Arsenal are the current holders of the FA Cup and all of the pressure is on them to deliver back-to-back domestic cup successes. Arsene Wenger’s side have been formidable throughout the second half of the campaign but were recently beaten by <a title="News from the Guardian" href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/2015/may/11/arsenal-swansea-premier-league-match-report" target="_blank">Garry Monk’s Swansea City,</a> despite dominating the match. The likes of Alexis Sanchez, Mesut Ozil and Olivier Giroud have all been in sparkling form and caused numerous problems for some of the league’s best defences. Villa are likely to defend and try to hit Arsenal on the counter-attack, so the Gunners must remain patient if they are to achieve their second FA Cup success in as many years.<br /><br /> <img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Arsenal_FA_Cup_Victory_Parade_2014_008.jpg" alt="Arsenal's Last FA Cup Success" width="450" /></p>
<p><strong>Wenger’s job may be on the line if they lose</strong></p>
<p> </p>
<img style="float: left; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Arsene-Wenger.jpg" alt="Arsene in Trouble" width="250" />
<p>The Frenchman’s position as manager <a title="Arsene in Trouble" href="http://www.arsenation.co.uk/important-fa-cup-final-arsene-wengers-future/" target="_blank">may come under scrutiny</a> if Arsenal do not go on to lift the trophy at the end of May. Apart from an away fixture at Manchester United, the Gunners have had a relatively straightforward route to the final and the 65-year-old will have no excuses if Villa pull off a shock victory. Arsenal supporters have been split on the Frenchman for quite some time now, but back-to-back FA Cup successes would certainly help to keep the critics off his back. However, a defeat could mark the end of his 20 year career at the club.</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
Rafa Gonzales
2015-05-15T19:01:00Z
Barcelona's Dominance makes the Catalans the "Elephant in the Room"
Gio Franco
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Barcelonas-Dominance-makes-the-Catalans-the-Elephant-in-the-Room/67573591481639816.html
2015-05-13T18:58:00Z
2015-05-13T18:58:00Z
<p>Ian and Martin this week discuss the elephant in the room, <a title="Barcelona FC homepage " href="http://www.fcbarcelona.com/" target="_blank">Barcelona FC</a>. The Soccer Comics go into depth about managers and who will be available and where they will go. Will Guardiola leave <a title="Bayern Munich homepage " href="http://www.fcbayern.de/en/" target="_blank">Bayern Munich</a>? Will he leave to go to Manchester City? The guys discuss Jurgen Klopp and if he is perfect for Munich if Pep were to leave the Bavarian club. <br /><br />Martin and Ian also debate the relegation battle, who will avoid the drop? Will it be <a title="Hull City homepage " href="http://www.hullcitytigers.com/" target="_blank">Hull City</a>, <a title="Leicester City homepage " href="http://www.lcfc.com/" target="_blank">Leicester City</a>, <a title="Sunderland homepage " href="http://www.safc.com/" target="_blank">Sunderland</a>, <a title="Newcastle United homepage " href="http://www.nufc.com/" target="_blank">Newcastle United</a>, <a title="Aston Villa homepage " href="http://www.avfc.co.uk/" target="_blank">Aston Villa</a>, or <a title="Burnley FC homepage " href="http://www.burnleyfootballclub.com/" target="_blank">Burnley</a>? The hosts also discuss Manchester United's win and Louis van Gaal's reputation to change systems "on the fly." <br /><br />Ian and Martin take some time to discuss the coming of Steven Gerrard to the <a title="Los Angeles Galaxy homepage " href="http://www.lagalaxy.com/" target="_blank">Los Angeles Galaxy</a> and <a title="Major League Soccer homepage " href="http://www.mlssoccer.com/" target="_blank">Major League Soccer</a>. <br /><br /><br />Also among the topics of discussion in episode 109 of the Soccer Comic Rant, <a title="La Liga Homepage " href="http://usa.laliga.es/en" target="_blank">La Liga</a> and <a title="Champions League Homepage " href="http://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/" target="_blank">Champions League</a>. <br /><br />Tune in for upcoming interviews with quality guests, giveaways and some quality football discussion. Be sure to follow the hosts and the shows twitter accounts too, <a title="Ian Edwards Twitter Page" href="https://twitter.com/ianedwardscomic" target="_blank">@IanEdwardsComic</a> <a title="Martin Harris Twitter Page " href="https://twitter.com/martinwharris" target="_blank">@Martinwharris</a> <a title="Soccer Comic Rant Twitter " href="https://twitter.com/soccercomicrant" target="_blank">@SoccerComicRant </a><br /><br /> If you want to add a topic into the discussion for the weekly show email WFD producer Gio Franco at Gio@worldfootballdaily.com or tweet him at <a title="Gio Franco Twitter" href="https://twitter.com/francotheg" target="_blank">@FrancotheG </a></p>
Gio Franco
2015-05-13T18:58:00Z
"Soccer is very much alive" Alive and Thriving
Gio Franco
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Soccer-is-very-much-alive-Alive-and-Thriving/-131998764728974909.html
2015-05-07T19:07:00Z
2015-05-07T19:07:00Z
<p>This week's edition of the Soccer Comic Rant Ian and Martin discuss the new champions of England, <a title="Chelsea FC Homepage " href="http://www.chelseafc.com/" target="_blank">Chelsea FC</a>. The guys also take time to talk about the most influential players in this season's transfers and the worst transfers in England. The Soccer Comics also go over the massive relegation battle occurring in the <a title="EPL Homepage " href="http://www.premierleague.com/en-gb.html" target="_blank">English Premier League</a>. The argument of "who is the best coach in the BPL this season" appears. <br /><br /><br />It is also a bitter sweet week as both Martin and Ian's teams (<a title="Tottenham Hotspur Homepage " href="http://www.tottenhamhotspur.com/" target="_blank">Tottenham Hotspur</a> and <a title="Manchester United homepage " href="http://www.manutd.com/" target="_blank">Manchester United</a>) suffered a 1-0 loss at the weekend, so the woes come out along with the comedic jabs. The hosts also briefly discuss <a title="Major League Soccer Homepage " href="http://www.mlssoccer.com/" target="_blank">Major League Soccer</a> along with the teams who will be promoted to the English Premier League for the next campaign. <br /><br />Also among the topics of discussion in episode 108 of the Soccer Comic Rant, <a title="Italian Serie A Homepage" href="http://www.legaseriea.it/en/" target="_blank">Serie A</a>, <a title="La Liga Homepage " href="http://usa.laliga.es/en" target="_blank">La Liga</a> and <a title="Champions League Homepage " href="http://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/" target="_blank">Champions League</a>. <br /><br />Tune in for upcoming interviews with quality guests, giveaways and some quality football discussion. Be sure to follow the hosts and the shows twitter accounts too, <a title="Ian Edwards Twitter Page" href="https://twitter.com/ianedwardscomic" target="_blank">@IanEdwardsComic</a> <a title="Martin Harris Twitter Page " href="https://twitter.com/martinwharris" target="_blank">@Martinwharris</a> <a title="Soccer Comic Rant Twitter " href="https://twitter.com/soccercomicrant" target="_blank">@SoccerComicRant </a><br /><br /> If you want to add a topic into the discussion for the weekly show email WFD producer Gio Franco at Gio@worldfootballdaily.com or tweet him at <a title="Gio Franco Twitter" href="https://twitter.com/francotheg" target="_blank">@FrancotheG </a></p>
Gio Franco
2015-05-07T19:07:00Z
Portland Timbers 0-0 Vancouver Whitecaps from Providence Park
Mark Henty
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Portland-Timbers-0-0-Vancouver-Whitecaps-from-Providence-Park/679684015495316643.html
2015-05-03T02:37:00Z
2015-05-03T02:37:00Z
<p><strong>Major League Soccer - Providence Park</strong></p>
<p><strong>05/2/2015: Clear, 18C/65F</strong></p>
<p><strong>Attendance: 21,314</strong></p>
<p><strong>Pre-game records: Portland Timbers (W2-D3-L3) vs. Vancouver Whitecaps (W5-D1-L3)</strong></p>
<p><strong>Starting Line-ups: </strong></p>
<p><strong>Portland Timbers – </strong>GLK Adam Larsen Kwarasey, DEF Alvas Powell, DEF Liam Ridgewell, DEF Nat Borchers, DEF Jorge Villafana, MID Rodney Wallace, MID Diego Chara, MID Jack Jewsbury, MID Darlington Nagbe, MID Ishmael Yartey, FWD Maximiliano Urruti. <strong>Formation: 4-2-3-1.</strong></p>
<p><strong>Vancouver Whitecaps: </strong>GLK David Ousted, DEF Jordan Harvey, DEF Pah Madou Kah, DEF Kendall Waston, DEF Ethen Sampson, MID Pedro Morales, MID Gershon Koffie, MID Russell Teibert, MID Mauro Rosales, MID Darren Mattocks, FWD Octavio Rivero. <strong>Formation: 4-2-3-1.</strong></p>
<p><strong>Game 9 of the MLS season:</strong></p>
<p>On a beautiful day in the Rose City, the Portland Timbers and the Vancouver Whitecaps squared off in what would be another game in the Cascadia Cup series and with the Portland Timbers having unluckily lost to the Seattle Sounders one week prior, they were looking to revive their season with a potential victory over a team flying high early in the season in the shape of the Vancouver Whitecaps. Caleb Porter decided to stick with the same side that lost their previous game except for the returning Rodney Wallace, showing faith in those that showed good possession play away to the Sounders.</p>
<p>The news that Diego Valeri was on the bench delighted not only Coach Porter but also the faithful home fans after a lengthy lay off through injury. Will Johnson was not quite ready to gain a position on the bench but his comeback from an ACL injury is also complete and he is expected to feature in the next game. Vancouver had started the season in excellent form and with 5 wins from 9 games, they began the game 7 points clear of the home side with Octavia Morales netting 5 goals in the process. The noise in the stadium before kick off was almost deafening as both the Timbers Army and the away fans were in full voice looking forward to a potentially cracking game.</p>
<p><br /> <strong>Match Report:</strong></p>
<p><strong>1<sup>st</sup> Half</strong></p>
<p><strong>First 20 mins: </strong>After a fairly even first 10 minutes former Timber Pah Madou Kah decided to ratchet up the intensity with what looked like an elbow into the face of Max Urruti but the referee decided against any malicious intent much to the dismay of the home crowd and did not book the Vancouver center back. To be fair, Urruti certainly made the most of it clutching his face. Rodney Wallace’ pace was exploiting the Vancouver right hand side and on 19 minutes, Vancouver right back Ethen Sampson was booked for a late challenge on Villafana putting him on the back foot. The Timbers were beginning to enjoy a good period of possession heading toward the 20 minute mark.</p>
<p><strong>29 mins: PENALTY! </strong>The Portland Timbers were given a penalty after Kah handled the ball inside the area by raising his arm in an unnatural position from a Yartey cross. The referees’ assistant appeared to signal that it was indeed handball as the referee did not see the incident. Darlington Nagbe stepped up, sent the keeper the wrong way and hit the post to the disbelief of the home fans.</p>
<p><strong>32 mins: </strong>Rodney Wallace once again wriggles free down the left hand side in a pacey attack and delivered a decent cross. Urruti managed to get free of his defender and was onside but headed the ball over the crossbar. Fernendo Adi on the bench must have wished he had that opportunity with that extra height. Still 0-0 and Portland dominated but just could not find the net.</p>
<p><strong>Half Time Score: Portland Timbers 0-0 Vancouver Whitecaps </strong></p>
<p><strong>Shots: Portland Timbers 6-3 Vancouver Whitecaps</strong></p>
<p><strong>Possession: Portland Timbers 64%-36% Vancouver Whitecaps</strong></p>
<p><strong>2<sup>nd</sup> Half:</strong></p>
<p><strong>52 mins: </strong>Coach Porter decided that it was time to bring on the crowd favorite and on comes one Diego Valeri for Ishmael Yartey to an ecstatic home crowd. The Timbers were once again dominating the game and pressing Vancouver back who showed very little in attacking prowess, mostly due to Portland’s excellent retention of the ball in this game.</p>
<p><strong>66 mins: </strong>After a lull in the game with neither team creating much, Caleb Porter decided to introduce Fernendo Adi into the attack removing Max Urruti from the action. Within 2 minutes Adi broke deep inside the Vancouver half but dallied on the ball and lost out to Kah. Adi looked for a free kick but the referee wasn’t buying it.</p>
<p><strong>72 mins: </strong>The Timbers pushing forward again and this time it falls to Darlington Nagbe whose shot is blocked by a defender and Jack Jewsbury finds himself at the edge of the box with a shot on goal which he fires low but there is not enough pace on it to trouble the keeper. A minute later Rodney Wallace is found on the left hand side by Nagbe and his low cross looks perfect for Diego Valeri but he scuffs his shot completely from a golden opportunity.</p>
<p><strong>87 mins: </strong>Constant pressure from the Timbers and they came forward in waves at the Vancouver defense who stood resolute. Diego Valeri was throwing in numerous set piece crosses but the away side continued to block and clear away. This was a true game of defense versus attack and with the clean sheet, it was the Vancouver Whitecaps who came out on top as Portland just could not create clear cut chances.</p>
<p><strong>Summary:</strong></p>
<p>This was a game that the Portland Timbers pretty much dominated from start to finish except for a cagey first 10 minute spell and Caleb Porter will feel that his team did more than enough to take the 3 points at home tonight. Chances came for Urruti, Jewsbury, and returning hero Diego Valeri but somehow the home team were unable to find the back of the net. Nagbe’s penalty miss proved crucial in the end as the match ended in stalemate with Vancouver much the happier team with the result. The Timbers are certainly looking more like the side of 2 season ago though when they won the Western Conference and supporters shield and with Diego Valeri back and looking sharp and Will Johnson to return soon, the future looks brighter for Caleb Porters team.<br /> <br /> <strong>Full Time Score: Portland Timbers 0-0 Vancouver Whitecaps</strong></p>
<p><strong>Shots: Portland Timbers 13 – 7 Vancouver Whitecaps</strong></p>
<p><strong>Possession: Portland Timbers 65% – 35% Vancouver Whitecaps</strong></p>
<p> </p>
Mark Henty
2015-05-03T02:37:00Z
A Tottenham Supporter walks into an Arsenal Pub
Gio Franco
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/A-Tottenham-Supporter-walks-into-an-Arsenal-Pub/49269528777257669.html
2015-04-28T20:30:00Z
2015-04-28T20:30:00Z
<p>The show starts off with Martin describing how he watched the Arsenal vs Chelsea FC match, "A Tottenham Supporter walks into an Arsenal Pub." Ian and Martin go into depth about the match between <a title="Arsenal FC Homepage " href="http://www.arsenal.com/home" target="_blank">Arsenal</a> and <a title="Chelsea FC Homepage" href="http://www.chelseafc.com/" target="_blank">Chelsea</a>. Martin also gets his "jabs" in on Ian rubbing it in about the <a title="Everton FC Homepage" href="http://www.evertonfc.com/" target="_blank">Everton</a> v <a title="Manchester United Homepage " href="http://www.manutd.com/" target="_blank">Man United</a> game. <br /><br />The guys take time to discuss the <a title="UEFA Champions League Homepage " href="http://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/" target="_blank">Champions League</a>, briefly get into a debate about "top teams in Europe," and the massive relegation battle raging on in <a title="English Premier League Homepage " href="http://www.premierleague.com/en-gb.html" target="_blank">England</a>. <br /><br />The guys also go over the <a title="Los Angeles Galaxy Homepage " href="http://www.lagalaxy.com/" target="_blank">Los Angeles Galaxy</a> and the multiple teams in <a title="Major League Soccer Homepage " href="http://www.mlssoccer.com/" target="_blank">Major League Soccer</a> currently. <br /><br /><br /><br />Tune in for upcoming interviews with quality guests, giveaways and some quality football discussion. Be sure to follow the hosts and the shows twitter accounts too, <a title="Ian Edwards Twitter Page" href="https://twitter.com/ianedwardscomic" target="_blank">@IanEdwardsComic</a> <a title="Martin Harris Twitter Page " href="https://twitter.com/martinwharris" target="_blank">@Martinwharris</a> <a title="Soccer Comic Rant Twitter " href="https://twitter.com/soccercomicrant" target="_blank">@SoccerComicRant </a><br /><br /> If you want to add a topic into the discussion for the weekly show email WFD producer Gio Franco at Gio@worldfootballdaily.com or tweet him at <a title="Gio Franco Twitter" href="https://twitter.com/francotheg" target="_blank">@FrancotheG </a></p>
Gio Franco
2015-04-28T20:30:00Z
Soccer Comic Rant Podcast
Gio Franco
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Soccer-Comic-Rant-Podcast/-987555592151586278.html
2015-04-17T22:41:00Z
2015-04-17T22:41:00Z
<p>Soccer is the greatest sport in the world, and it is stand up comedians Ian Edwards and Martin Harris' favorite topic to insult each other about at The Soccer Comic Rant. The Soccer Comic Rant has recorded over 100 episodes since they have been established, right here in Los Angeles too at the famous Comedy Store. Ian and Martin are the hosts and Comedians of the show, the two have been bringing their experience and expertise on the beautiful game since their start back January 4th 2013. <br /><br />Now that the Soccer Comic Rant has joined the WFD family we will be able to collaborate with each other by giving the WFD family what they have been deprived of since our hiatus on the 28th of February 2014. The podcast will be a weekly show for the time being till we can work out all that is needed to make the show "Daily" again. <br /><br /><br />Tune in for upcoming interviews with quality guests, giveaways and some quality football discussion. Be sure to follow the hosts and the shows twitter accounts too, @IanEdwardsComic @Martinwharris @SoccerComicRant <br /><br /><br />Here is the most recent Episode of The Soccer Comic Rant with the guys reaction to the Manchester Derby and the Liverpool match against Newcastle United <br /><br /> <br /><br />If you want to add a topic into the discussion for the weekly show email WFD producer Gio Franco at Gio@worldfootballdaily.com or tweet him at @FrancotheG </p>
Gio Franco
2015-04-17T22:41:00Z
Portland Timbers 0-2 Orlando City SC from Providence Park
Mark Henty
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Portland-Timbers-0-2-Orlando-City-SC-from-Providence-Park/55539944586766856.html
2015-04-12T23:10:00Z
2015-04-12T23:10:00Z
<p><strong>Major League Soccer - Providence Park</strong></p>
<p><strong>04/12/2015: Clear, 11C/52F</strong></p>
<p><strong>Attendance: 21,314</strong></p>
<p><strong>Pre-game records: Portland Timbers (W1-D3-L1) vs. Orlando City SC (W1-D2-L2)</strong></p>
<p><strong>Starting Line-ups: </strong></p>
<p><strong>Portland Timbers – </strong>GLK Adam Larsen Kwarasey, DEF Alvas Powell, DEF Liam Ridgewell, DEF Nat Borchers, DEF Jorge Villafana, MID Rodney Wallace, MID Diego Chara, MID George Fochive, FWD Darlington Nagbe, FWD Maximiliano Urruti, FWD Fanendo Adi. <strong>Formation: 4-4-2.</strong></p>
<p><strong>Orlando City SC: </strong>GLK Donovan Ricketts, DEF Brek Shea, DEF Aurelien Collin, DEF Seb Hines, DEF Rafael Ramos, MID Amobi Okugo, MID Cristian Higuita, MID Carlos Rivas, MID Kaka, MID Kevin Molino, FWD Cyle Larin. <strong>Formation: 4-2-3-1.</strong></p>
<p><strong>Game 6 of the MLS season:</strong></p>
<p>A stunning afternoon in the Rose City for a 2pm kick off and the home crowd will have felt confident after a well-deserved 3-1 victory over FC Dallas at home the previous week. Caleb Porter decided to go with the same starting 11 that beat FC Dallas keeping faith in the 4-4-2 system that served him so well that day. Diego Chara and George Fochive were immense in that victory and with Will Johnson still out injured, Coach Porter must have been delighted that these two worked so well in the center of midfield. Ridgewell and Borchers looked sturdy at the back and Villafana and Powell were always a threat as backup to Nagbe and Wallace.</p>
<p>Orlando City, after a promising start to the season, had not won in their past 3 games, losing at home to DC United and the Vancouver Whitecaps by a goal to nil and drawing away to Montreal Impact 2-2. Orlando Coach Adrian Heath decided to go with a 4-2-3-1 with Kaka playing his usual position in behind Cayle Larin looking to do what FC Dallas could not the previous week in beating the 4-4-2 of the Portland Timbers.</p>
<p><br /> <strong>Match Highlights:</strong></p>
<p><strong>1<sup>st</sup> Half</strong></p>
<p><strong>10 mins: </strong>After a bright opening from the Portland Timbers with some decent early possession, Rodney Wallace works a good space on the left hand side and slides in a medium height cross that Fanendo Adi does get his foot too but at an awkward height, he can only dink it over the crossbar. A minute later Orlando FC work a nice move into the Portland 18 yard box and Kevin Molino twists and turns inside the area but his shot is deflected for a corner. Within another minute, Orlando have a shout for a penalty kick denied as Molino scoops the ball up and it appears to hit the hand of Villafana. Nothing given. Possession was now certainly in favor of Orlando City.</p>
<p><strong>18 mins: </strong>After some good pressure from Orlando City SC, Darlington Nagbe fires in a shot from the right hand side of the 18 yard area and Donovan Ricketts gets a strong hand to it and although it lands at the feet of Urruti, he finds himself in an offside position. Still 0-0.</p>
<p><strong>28 mins</strong>: Alves Powell commits a cynical challenge on Higuita after he felt that he was fouled himself on the edge of the Orlando penalty area.</p>
<p><strong>30 mins: </strong>It’s a goal for Orlando City SC as Molino gets free after an error from Villafana on the right hand side and crosses to <strong>Cyle Larin</strong> who finds himself unmarked in the 6 yard box and he chests it straight into the net. <strong>Portland Timbers 0-1 Orlando City SC.</strong></p>
<p><strong>36 mins: </strong>The Timbers obtained a free kick at the edge of the box after some nice work from George Fochive in what is now a rare attack but Darlington Nagbe fires the shot just over the left hand corner of the crossbar.</p>
<p><strong>45 mins: </strong>Diego Chara found himself into the book as he pulls down Mulino who was on a breakaway from a Timbers corner that Chara and Powell worked well to obtain. Orlando City argued that he was the last man and they have a point, but the card was yellow. The half ends in a flurry of yellow cards as Ramos fouls Urruti in cynical fashion and the half ends with a frustrated Timbers being out passed by a competent Orlando side. Was Portland coach Porter going to stick with the 4-4-2 for the 2<sup>nd</sup> half of change it to combat the 5 man midfield of Orlando.</p>
<p><strong>Half Time Score: Portland Timbers 0-1 Orlando City SC (Larin 30) </strong></p>
<p><strong>Shots: Portland Timbers 5-7 Orlando City SC</strong></p>
<p><strong>Possession: Portland Timbers 49%-51% Orlando City SC</strong></p>
<p><strong>2<sup>nd</sup> Half:</strong></p>
<p><strong>45 mins: </strong>Caleb Porter brought in Jack Jewsbury for George Fochive to try to get a foothold in the game and work their possession game better in the 2<sup>nd</sup> half.</p>
<p><strong>54 mins: </strong>Darlington Nagbe springs through the center of the Orlando defense but gets too much under the ball and scoops the shot over the bar from 20 yards out. That was a real chance for the home side to get back on level terms. Caleb Porter decides that it’s not working for Rodney Wallace today and brings on Dairon Asprilla to bring some more youth and pace into the attack.</p>
<p><strong>68 mins: </strong>With Orlando City SC taking the foot off the gas and the Timbers obtaining better possession of the ball the home side squander a couple of half opportunities as first Adi puts a header over the bar from 8 yards out and then both he and Urruti have shots blocked by a resilient Orlando defense.</p>
<p><strong>71 mins: </strong>The Timbers now beginning to come forward in waves and Nagbe springs through the center and slides in Asprilla who hits a first time shot that Ricketts manages to get glove to as it was heading towards the top left hand corner of the goal. Portland are just unable to find the back of the net now as they are slowly turning up the heat on the Orlando City defense.</p>
<p><strong>77 mins: </strong>Darlington Nagbe again slid in a fine pass and this time it found Urruti 10 yards from goal but once again there is an Orlando leg outstretched to block the artillery being fired in. The home side had created plenty of good half chances in this 15 minute spell but were just unable to get around an excellent display at the back for the away side. Liam Ridgewell 2 minutes later performs a Cruyff turn to the delight of the home fans who had little to cheer about thus far.</p>
<p><strong>82 mins: </strong>One last throw of the dice for Caleb Porter as he went 3 at the back and took off Jorge Villafana for Gaston Fernandez. <strong> </strong></p>
<p><strong>85 mins: PENALTY! </strong>Kwarasey brings down substitute Carlos Rivas and then saves it from Kaka but the referee insisted that there was some infringement and orders the penalty to be retaken to the dismay of the home fans and Caleb Porter. Second time around, <strong>Kaka</strong> makes no mistake and makes it 2-0. <strong>Portland Timbers 0-2 Orlando City SC.</strong></p>
<p><strong>90 mins: </strong>A wonderful turn by Jorge Villafana and he takes on 3 Orlando defenders but his shot is saved by former Timber Donovan Ricketts. Moments later Gaston Fernandez fires in a curling shot that just goes wide. The home side certainly had some chances in the second half but were just unable to convert them.</p>
<p><strong>Summary:</strong></p>
<p>After a cagey first 10 minutes or so, Orlando City got into their passing game and controlled the first half as if they were the home side looking calm on the ball and Kaka seemed to be enjoying himself with some excellent vision and passing. The 4-4-2 formation that had suited Portland so well in the games against the Vancouver Whitecaps (even through defeat they had 66% of the possession) and FC Dallas, did not work well against the extra man in midfield in a side that thrives on possession like Orlando City.</p>
<p>With Diego Valeri and Club Captain Will Johnson still out injured, there was just a slight lack of drive and creativity through the Timbers midfield and being outnumbered made it difficult for the as little was created by the home side in the first half due to the pressure on the ball by Orlando. Coach Porter did some tinkering at half-time and Jack Jewsbury helped to obtain a higher share of possession and there was a 15-20 minute spell where the home side looked the most likely to score but the penalty kick with 5 minutes to go killed off the game. Credit to Orlando City, they came with a game plan to gain possession and frustrate and 2007 FIFA World Player Of The Year Kaka excelled in his role. <br /> <br /> It will be interesting to see if Coach Porter sticks with the 4-4-2 for the next game at New York City or if he will revert back to the 4-2-3-1 formation.<br /><br /> <strong>Full Time Score: Portland Timbers 0-2 Orlando City SC (Larin 30, Kaka 85 Pen)</strong></p>
<p><strong>Shots: Portland Timbers 18 – 14 Orlando City SC</strong></p>
<p><strong>Possession: Portland Timbers 53% – 46% Orlando City SC</strong></p>
<p> </p>
Mark Henty
2015-04-12T23:10:00Z
Portland Timbers 3-1 FC Dallas from Providence Park
Mark Henty
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Portland-Timbers-3-1-FC-Dallas-from-Providence-Park/501621600614503106.html
2015-04-05T04:42:00Z
2015-04-05T04:42:00Z
<p><strong>Major League Soccer - Providence Park</strong></p>
<p><strong>04/04/2015: Clear, 10C/50F</strong></p>
<p><strong>Attendance: 20,814</strong></p>
<p><strong>Pre-game records: Portland Timbers (W0-D3-L1) vs. FC Dallas (W3-D1-L0)</strong></p>
<p><strong><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/admin/IMG_0246.jpg" alt="The traditional handshakes before the game." /><br />Starting Line-ups: </strong></p>
<p><strong>Portland Timbers – </strong>GLK Adam Larsen Kwarasey, DEF Alvas Powell, DEF Liam Ridgewell, DEF Nat Borchers, DEF Jorge Villafana, MID Rodney Wallace, MID Diego Chara, MID George Fochive, FWD Darlington Nagbe, FWD Maximiliano Urruti, FWD Fanendo Adi. <strong>Formation: 4-4-2.</strong></p>
<p><strong>FC Dallas – </strong>GLK Chris Seitz, DEF Matt Hedges, DEF Atiba Harris, DEF Walker Zimmerman, DEF Zach Loyd, MID Michel, MID Victor Ulloa, MID Fabian Castillo, MID Ryan Hollingshead, MID Tesho Akindele, FWD David Texeira. <strong>Formation: 4-2-3-1.</strong></p>
<p><strong>Game 5 of the MLS season:</strong></p>
<p>After a beautiful, dry day in the Rose City, the Portland Timbers and FC Dallas took to the field staring at different ends of the MLS league table early doors with the Timbers only mustering 3 points from their first 4 games despite 3 goals already from Fanendo Adi and FC Dallas looking strong atop the Western Conference with an unbeaten record and 10 points already on the board. <br /> <br /> Many would argue that the Timbers have been unlucky in their first few games with injury time despair at home to the LA Galaxy (to snatch away a Timbers victory) and away to the Vancouver Whitecaps (whom the Timbers dominated in terms of possession and passing but just could not get the result). Caleb Porter had plenty of confidence in his team going into this game, firmly believing that they could get the 3 points and he went with the 4-4-2 formation used at Vancouver as it worked extremely well in terms of possession. Coach Porter said in the run up to this game after a frustrating start to the season that “The best medicine for what we are feeling is a win”.</p>
<p>FC Dallas came into this game brimming with confidence with their somewhat surprisingly lofty position atop the MLS league standings after impressive wins against San Jose (1-0), Sporting KC (3-1), and the Philadelphia Union (2-0), plus a decent draw against the Seattle Sounders. Preseason form did not point to such a good start but this side has performed well and 24 year old Blas Perez had already netted 3 goals in 3 games. FC Dallas had scored 6 goals in their first 4 games and were looking to poach another victory at a place where away wins are hard to come by.</p>
<p><br /> <strong>Match Highlights:</strong></p>
<p><strong>1<sup>st</sup> Half</strong></p>
<p><strong>7 mins: </strong>With the Timbers looking comfortable in possession, Darlington Nagbe dribbles his way through a 40 yard run and knocks it wide left to Rodney Wallace who, with Urruti and Adi waiting in the penalty box, wastes the chance to put in a good cross and FC Dallas clear. 5 minutes later, Wallace chests the ball done nicely and hits a volley but it deflects of the Dallas defense through to the keeper safely.</p>
<p><strong>15 mins: </strong>David Texeira appears to throw an elbow to the nose of Liam Ridgewell and Texeira is booked as Ridgewell receives treatment. Texeira to be fair appeared to have his eyes on the ball and it was more clumsy than malicious.</p>
<p><strong>19 mins</strong>: The first real chance to FC Dallas as Castillo puts a ball through for Akindele but Kwarasey read the play brilliantly and comes out to grab the ball from the midfielder’s feet.</p>
<p><strong>GOAL 23 mins: </strong>The Timbers win a corner and Jorge Villafana swerves in a fine cross from the right hand side and <strong>Nat Borchers</strong> nets his first goal for the Timbers! <strong>Portland Timbers 1-0 FC Dallas.</strong></p>
<p><strong><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/admin/IMG_0297.jpg" alt="Borchers heads home the first goal" /><br />Offside 25 mins: </strong>Fernando Adi breaks free through the FC Dallas defense and strikes low at goal and Chris Seitz pulls off an excellent save and sprays the ball to his right and Urruti is there to convert but is offside from the original shot.</p>
<p><strong>GOAL 30 mins: </strong>FC Dallas score themselves from a corner kick as Michel crosses from the left side an out swinger and it is met by <strong>Tesho Akindele</strong> to slot it home from close range and make the game all square at 1-1. <strong>Portland Timbers 1-1 FC Dallas.</strong></p>
<p><strong>42 mins: </strong>From an FC Dallas corner, Fanendo Adi heads the ball clear to Diego Chara who breaks and gets the ball wide to Darlington Nagbe who then scuffs his shot wide of the left hand post. Excellent work by Chara. Nagbe might usually show more composure there.</p>
<p><strong>45 mins: </strong>Some excellent footwork from Alves Powell as he cuts in from the right at the edge of the penalty box and he is fouled by Ryan Hollingshead. It’s an excellent position for a left footer but Rodney Wallace’s free kick is fired just over the bar.</p>
<p><strong>Half Time Score: Portland Timbers (Nat Borchers 23) 1-1 FC Dallas (Tesho Akindele 30) </strong></p>
<p><strong>Shots: Portland Timbers 7-4 FC Dallas</strong></p>
<p><strong>Possession: Portland Timbers 54%-46% FC Dallas</strong></p>
<p><strong><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/admin/IMG_0313.jpg" alt="Timber Joey revvin' her up" /><br />2<sup>nd</sup> Half:</strong></p>
<p><strong>50 mins: </strong>Urruti is through but it’s a very tight angle and he fires the ball straight to the hands of the Dallas keeper. The Timbers started the 2<sup>nd</sup> half with some extra zeal in an attempt to regain the lead.</p>
<p><strong>56 mins: </strong> A poor and accidental back pass from Diego Chara slips through Ryan Hollingshead for FC Dallas but he is unable to get the ball under control and Kwarasey sprints out to collect the ball from the feet of the wide man.</p>
<p><strong>GOAL 63 mins</strong>: Some excellent work from George Fochive as he wins the ball and Nagbe goes on a mazy run toward the penalty and slips it through to Asprilla who crosses to <strong>Maximiliano</strong> <strong>Urruti</strong> who volleys it high into the net from close range. <strong>Portland Timbers 2-1 FC Dallas. </strong>Darlington Nagbe once again carving a way through the FC Dallas defense and causing them all sorts of problems.</p>
<p><strong><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/admin/IMG_0522.jpg" alt="" /><br />84 mins: </strong>As FC Dallas push people forward with little real threat, the Portland Timbers are breaking well and often and this time its Fochive driving through the midfield and his pass cannot quite reach Adi who would have been through on goal.</p>
<p><strong>85 mins: </strong>FC Dallas win a corner and Zach Loyd climbs all over Nat Borches and gets a decent header onto it and Kwarasey gets a hand on it and tips it onto the crossbar.</p>
<p><strong>GOAL 87 mins: </strong>As FC Dallas file men forward <strong>Diego Chara</strong> steals the ball close the halfway line a prods it to Adi who returns the favor and Chara runs through on goal and slides the ball to the left of Chris Seitz and the home side go 3-1 up to the delight of the majority of the capacity crowd. <strong> Portland Timbers 3-1 FC Dallas.<br /><br /><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/admin/IMG_0675.jpg" alt="Chara slots home the Timbers 3rd goal." /> </strong></p>
<p><strong>Summary:</strong></p>
<p>The Portland Timbers have played better than their 3 points from 4 games had eluded to but tonight they came out and played the 4-4-2 like they had been playing it for years. Borchers and Ridgewell looked solid at the back, if a little war scarred from the game, Chara and Fochive were excellent in the center of midfield as the engine of the team and Nagbe and Wallace threatened often throughout the game supplying some good chances to Urruti and Adi. <br /> <br /> The 3-1 score line was not flattering to the Timbers who had more possession and more shots on goal and Caleb Porter deserves credit for going again with the 4-4-2 formation that dominated Vancouver away, even though they were unfortunate to lose that game. With Valeri and Captain Johnson yet to come back from injury, things are looking positive for the Portland Timbers who finally got their first win of the season tonight.</p>
<p><br /> <strong>Full Time Score: Portland Timbers (Borchers 23, Urruti 63, Chara 87) 3-1 FC Dallas (Akindele 30)<br />Possession: Portland Timbers 49%-51% FC Dallas.<br />Shots: Portland Timbers 12-8 FC Dallas.<br /><br /><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/admin/IMG_0680.jpg" alt="The home fans go nuts after the third goal." /> </strong></p>
<p><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/admin/IMG_0737.jpg" alt="The home scorers receive their prize from Timber Joey" /></p>
Mark Henty
2015-04-05T04:42:00Z
Club Santos vs Atlas Liga MX Preview
Gio Franco
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Club-Santos-vs-Atlas-Liga-MX-Preview/774004618291190616.html
2015-02-20T23:09:00Z
2015-02-20T23:09:00Z
<p><a title="Club Santos Laguna homepage" href="http://www.clubsantos.mx/" target="_blank">Santos Laguna</a> will be looking to extend their unbeaten run from eight games to nine this Friday against Atlas. Santos will be hosting <a title="Club Atlas homepage" href="http://atlas.com.mx/" target="_blank">Atlas</a> at the Estadio Nuevo Corona in Torreon Mexico Friday the 20th of February. Currently both sides sit equal on points with 10 points, although Atlas are in 6th and Santos 4th. The difference between Santos and Atlas is their goal differential. Atlas have an equal number of goals scored and goals allowed to their difference, eight. Santos have outscored their opponents in Liga MX table by three goals; nine goals scored to six goals allowed.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Los Verdiblancos (the Green-and-whites) will be coming into this match against Atlas on a "high" note after defeating Atletico San Luis 3-0 at the Estadio Nuevo Corona. The last occasion that Santos dropped points occurred recently in Toluca. Diego Gonzalez was able to salvage a draw for Santos in the dying stages of the match. The last time Santos were defeated came in the beginning of the season when they were visiting Mexico City and were defeated 1-0 by Cruz Azul.</p>
<p><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Rafael Figueroa santos review .jpg" alt="" width="520" height="340" /> </p>
<p>Atlas on the other hand has been enduring a rough run of form since their last victory back on the 17th of January against Morelia, 2-1. Atlas recently was defeated in their Copa Libertadores match against Colombian side Santa Fe, 0-1. The lost to the Colombians at the Estadio Jalisco in Mexico added to the woes of Atlas and their supporters during this month of February. Los Zorros really need something out of this tie against Santos especially since they will be traveling to Southeastern Brazil in their other Copa Libertadores match against Atletico Mineiro.</p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Julio Gonzalez santos review.jpg" alt="" width="450" height="300" /></p>
<p>Los Laguneros (The Harriers) should in fact see three points easily in this match against Atlas. The last 11 occasions these two sides have met, Santos have won seven, tied three and were defeated by Los Zorros on one occasion. Here is a little piece of frivolous information, the last time Atlas defeated Santos was almost a year from Friday at the Estadio Nuevo Corona, 3-2. </p>
<p><br /><br /><br />Photo credit: Club Santos Laguna </p>
Gio Franco
2015-02-20T23:09:00Z
New Puma EvoPowers and EvoSpeeds
Gio Franco
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/New-Puma-EvoPowers-and-EvoSpeeds/404713001327801109.html
2015-02-02T22:08:00Z
2015-02-02T22:08:00Z
<p> </p>
<p>The Transfer deadline day has made this Monday as chaotic and pressing for those who closely follow football at the club level. Today the good people at <a title="Puma homepage" href="http://us.puma.com/en_US/home?locale=en_US&mktID=PL:Brand%20Marketing:Puma.com-CatchAllPage:United%20States-en&plinkID=Brand" target="_blank">Puma</a> have finally released to purchase in stores the brand new EvoPowers and a new color to the EvoSpeeds. The new EvoPower 1.2 FG boot boasts the new generation technology that aids the boot in generating more power and accuracy to ones kick.</p>
<p><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Puma EvoPower release 2015.jpg" alt="" width="420" height="185" /> </p>
<p>Along with the EvoPowers Puma also released a new color scheme to their much-boasted EvoSpeeds 1.3 cleats. The boot will be kicking out the winter months mixing bright plasma, white and peacoat. The EvoSpeeds now have a bright look that will put ones opposition in awe of the bright color scheme to go along with ones speed and agility on the pitch.</p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Griezmann EvoSpeed release 2015.jpg" alt="" width="500" height="390" /><br /><br />One of the stand out players that sports Puma boots on the pitch is one of <a title="Chelsea FC homepage" href="http://www.chelseafc.com/" target="_blank">Chelsea’s</a> high prized midfield generals, Cesc Fabregas. When Cesc was asked about how he feels about the boot he praised the boot for being one of the most comfortable boots “he has ever worn.” The Chelsea number four was asked also about if the boot has improved since its last release. Fabregas emphasized on how the cleats are “lighter now and your touch is even better now.” Finally the Spanish midfielder was asked about what attribute he sees to be most important accuracy or power and which he would consider himself more, a powerful player or accurate player.</p>
<p><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/fabregas Puma Release 2015.jpg" alt="" width="500" height="375" /><br /><br />Fabregas stated “both are very important, but I believe more in accuracy because the power is more about how physically strong you are, and accuracy is about the technical ability that you have. So, I personally believe more in accuracy. I am definitely an accuracy player.”</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Puma also released with these boots a short film was posted to YouTube with both Cesc Fabregas and Mario Balotelli sporting the EvoPowers and its attributes to their game.</p>
<p><span style="font-family: sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"> </span></p>
<iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/eoCNG4yP3Tc" frameborder="0" height="315" width="560"></iframe>
<p>Coming soon will be thorough account of the boots….. </p>
<p> </p>
Gio Franco
2015-02-02T22:08:00Z
Roma Victor
Gio Franco
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Roma-Victor/-379779046554066883.html
2014-12-20T05:22:00Z
2014-12-20T05:22:00Z
<p><a title="AS Roma homepage" href="http://www.asroma.it/" target="_blank">AS Roma</a> need three points this Saturday if they wish to keep up with <a title="Juventus homepage" href="http://www.juventus.com/juve/en/home" target="_blank">Juventus</a>. The Romans will be entertaining Filippo Inzaghi’s <a title="AC Milan homepage" href="http://www.acmilan.com/en" target="_blank">AC Milan</a> at the Stadio Olimpico. There is a domestic difference between both sides AS Roma and AC Milan. Roma look to push Juventus all the way to the end for their quest for a Scudetto. AC Milan on the other hand continues striving to regain entrance into any European competition. </p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/de rossi vs cesena.jpg" alt="" width="485" height="285" /></p>
<p>The Giallorossi are currently in 2<sup>nd</sup> place behind Juventus by only four points and with a victory on Saturday will close that gap to a mere point. The Romans are on a interesting bout of form after crashing out of the UEFA Champions League and parachuting into the Europa League as a consolation. Last Sunday’s 1-0 victory in <a title="Genoa Homepage" href="http://genoacfc.it/" target="_blank">Genoa</a> hopefully will be a morale boost for the Giallorossi this weekend.</p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/totti v torino.jpg" alt="" width="450" height="285" /></p>
<p>The previous occasion these sides played against each other was back in April of this year 2014 which the Romans were victorious 2-0 in the Olimpico. In fact the last time the Milanese defeated Roma at the Stadio Olimpico was in October 2011, back to a time when Zlatan Ibrahimovic was playing for the Rossoneri. Not to mention Zlatan scored twice in that match in 2011 but hence the tall Swede has come and gone, to Paris.</p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/bonavetura vs napoli.jpg" alt="" width="650" height="300" /></p>
<p>AC Milan on the other hand lingers in seventh place in <a title="Italian Serie A homepage" href="http://www.legaseriea.it/en/" target="_blank">Italy’s Serie A</a>. The Rossoneri look set to battle it out with five other clubs in Italy for the coveted 3<sup>rd</sup>, 4<sup>th</sup>, and 5<sup>th</sup> place position to get into Europe. The Milanese are also going into this match against Roma coming off a massive win against <a title="Napoli homepage" href="http://www.sscnapoli.it/prehome/html/default.html" target="_blank">Napoli</a> 2-0 at the San Siro. Milan manager Filippo Inzaghi stated early on Friday on how “aware he is of the atmosphere going into the Olimpico.”</p>
<p><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/menez vs napoli.jpg" alt="" width="420" height="350" /> </p>
<p>As mentioned earlier the last time the Rossoneri defeated Roma at the Stadio Olimpico was back in 2011. Much has changed in the Serie A since those three years. The football powerhouse that came out of Milan has been overshadowed by Juventus in Turin and Roma out of the capital. This match should be a entertaining one and realistically should be a victory for the Romans. The Giallorossi overall appear to be the more dangerous side particularly in the defense. The Milanese allowed seven more goals than the Romans this campaign and Roma only outscoring the Rossoneri by three goals. One famous roman said it best over 2 thousand years ago and the Roma faithful still utter the same phrase today, "Veni Vidi Vici."<br /><br /><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/roma fans .jpg" alt="" width="450" height="390" /> </p>
<p> </p>
Gio Franco
2014-12-20T05:22:00Z
USMNT Subdued in Dublin
Gio Franco
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/USMNT-Subdued-in-Dublin/722983247095553877.html
2014-11-20T04:29:00Z
2014-11-20T04:29:00Z
<p> </p>
<p>The United States traveled to Dublin <a title="Football Association of Ireland Homepage" href="http://www.fai.ie/" target="_blank">Ireland</a> with hopes of ending the year on a strong result after their rude awakening they experienced with Colombia last Friday. Prior to this match the Stars and Stripes have traveled to Dublin on four separate occasions and each time they were defeated by Ireland. Tuesday evening's match would not be different from the other four occasions. The trendiest issue coming from the <a title="USMNT Homepage" href="http://www.ussoccer.com/" target="_blank">USMNT</a> is one that has always haunted them, the start of each half.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Besler v ireland .jpg" alt="" width="400" height="330" /> </p>
<p>The first goal of the game came in the seventh minute on a counterattack. Ireland debutant David McGoldrick beautifully placed a pass into the on running Anthony Pilkington who made it 1-0 to the hosts. Team USA woke up collectively after the opening goal by Ireland. Klinsmann's side equalized on the 39th minute after a interesting build up that found Wondo in the box who headed the ball into the path of Diskerud who tied the match from close range. The halftime whistle echoed around Aviva Stadium and each side went to their locker rooms at 1-1.</p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Diskerud ties it.jpg" alt="" width="390" height="330" /></p>
<p> </p>
<p>Martin O'Neill's side had a lot of questions going into this match since every single player who played in Ireland's 0-1 lost to Scotland were not present. The Irish looked strong in that first half and many have dubbed this to be Martin O'Neill's "B" team. This "B" team would soon make their names heard in Dublin and to head coach Martin O’Neill.</p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Johnson v ireland .jpg" alt="" width="375" height="320" /></p>
<p> </p>
<p>The second half would begin much like how the first half began, ten minutes after the restart Robert Brady would capitalize off a defensive mistake to give the lead back to Ireland. After a poor defensive clearance by Fabian Johnson, David McGoldrick again assisted Robbie Brady to make it 2-1. The entire second half Jurgen's side found it hard to break into another gear to bring the game back level.</p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Morales vs ireland .jpg" alt="" width="400" height="330" /></p>
<p> </p>
<p>The USMNT did in fact put pressure on their hosts on several occasions before Ireland began to break away. Jordan Morris fed Greg Garza who came on for Alfredo Morales, inside the Ireland penalty box. Garza whipped in a shot, which was saved by Shay Given on the 81st minute for a corner kick for USA. This is the point which history repeated itself in football.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>After the USA’s attempt on said corner kick, Ireland substitute Shane Long was able to exploit his speed on the left wing. Shane Long was able to whip a shot on target that hit the post, immediately after James McClean would fire Ireland to a 3-1 lead. The third goal was a rather unfortunate goal to let in as well for the USMNT as they looked to pry themselves back into the match. The goal took a nasty deflection off of Cameron and past Bill Hamid. Ireland would make it 4-1 in the 86<sup>th</sup> minute after a superb free kick and second for Robert Brady.</p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Brady kills the game Ireland .jpg" alt="" width="385" height="320" /></p>
<p>In retrospect the US Men’s National Team did in fact perform poorly on the road in Dublin Ireland. One thing Jurgen can take to heart in this match was the attacking threat both Alejandro Bedoya and Fabian Johnson pose when they play on the right side for team USA. Klinsmann also probably took note that his side was without Clint Dempsey and Omar Gonzalez. Both players are important for the Stars and Stripes but with the lineup being somewhat new in regards to some personnel in the midfield and defense. The attacking lineup was one of “top” quality with Jozy Altidore and Chris Wondolowski leading the forward line.</p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Bedoya v ireland.jpg" alt="" width="350" height="350" /></p>
<p>Martin O’Neill definitely looked the genius on Tuesday evening as many critiqued him as being very disrespectful to the USMNT with 11 changes to the match. All 11 changes was evidently the correct decision as Ireland looked stronger on all parts of the field and match. </p>
<p> </p>
Gio Franco
2014-11-20T04:29:00Z
Galaxy advance in RSL rout
Gio Franco
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Galaxy-advance-in-RSL-rout/454148571809465489.html
2014-11-12T20:29:00Z
2014-11-12T20:29:00Z
<p> </p>
<p>The <a title="LA Galaxy homepage" href="http://www.lagalaxy.com/" target="_blank">Los Angeles Galaxy</a> advanced to the Western Conference finals Sunday evening after a dominating display against what was once the Galaxy's "jinx" team <a title="Real Salt Lake homepage" href="http://www.realsaltlake.com/" target="_blank">Real Salt Lake</a>. Landon Donovan took the spotlight once again at the Stub Hub Center but this time for the proper reasons. Much has been critiqued on the conduct of Landon Donovan's retirement at the ripe old age of 32. This time in the Western Conference semifinals many again were talking about the Galaxy number ten but instead of his retirement the talk was his hat trick and one assist in the Galaxy's 5-0 victory against RSL.</p>
<p><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/LD scores 3 .jpg" alt="" width="450" height="290" /> </p>
<p>Much has been discussed of the Los Angeles Galaxy going into the Western Conference playoffs being pitted against Real Salt Lake. Real Salt Lake last year defeated the Galaxy in the two-legged affair 2-1. During the regular season each side recorded a win in Carson and tied 1-1 the one time in Salt Lake City. The first leg in Utah of the semifinals ended in a 0-0 draw which in retrospect could of been a big disadvantage to the Galaxy as an away goal scored by Real Salt Lake would give the upper hand to the visitors.</p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Sarvas scores 4th.jpg" alt="" width="440" height="380" /></p>
<p>The match in the Stub Hub Center Sunday opened up rather quick, in the eleventh minute Landon Donovan would score the first goal for the Galaxy. Wonderful switch of play by the Galaxy found Ishizaki on the right wing, the Swede opened space for Sarvas to feed the running De la Garza. AJ crossed the ball on his first touch over to the open Landon Donovan to head the ball in pass Rickets. The second goal for LA came from the Irish international Robbie Keane, after not being able to capitalize on a build up, Juninho was able to beautifully feed Donovan who fed the ball into the barely onside Keane to make it 2-0.</p>
<p><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Sravas & co celebrate 4.jpg" alt="" width="500" height="390" /> </p>
<p>The halftime whistle echoed throughout Stub Hub with the Galaxy on top 2-0 and stewing in two other missed opportunities by Donovan and Zardes. After the restart it took a further nine minutes for Donovan to grab his second goal. Robbie Keane superbly split the defense for the on running Landon the Galaxy legend then rounded Ricketts and dispatched his shot pass the three rushing defenders, 3-0.</p>
<p><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/LD goal 5.jpg" alt="" width="420" height="350" /> </p>
<p>The game appeared to be done and dusted at that moment being 3-0 and Real Salt Lake looked in fact very shell shocked throughout the entire game. The fourth and killing goal arrived in the 63rd minute when once again the Galaxy were searching and passing their way into space. Rogers passed the ball into Keane, which the Galaxy captain again fed the ball to Sarvas who was on a run into the Real Salt Lake box. Sarvas beat his defender and easily dispatched the ball into the back of the net to make it 4-0. The evening would become a more memorable for Landon Donovan in the 72nd minute. Keane would elegantly scoop the ball over the top of the Real Salt defense for Donovan to one time it for his hat trick and the extra insurance policy for the LA Galaxy.</p>
<p><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/LD applauds fans sub.png" alt="" width="525" height="340" /> </p>
<p>The Los Angeles Galaxy ran riot Sunday evening and definitely made a statement to the winner of Monday’s Western Conference semifinal, the Seattle Sounders. After the match Donovan spoke about retiring as a champion again and that "that's the goal." Landon Donovan definitely made it a night to remember for the Galaxy fans as the songs of "one more year" and "Oh Landon Donovan" rang through Stub Hub Center. Hopefully the Galaxy will achieve glory in the MLS Cup to give back to their fans and for Donovan to retire “on a high note.”</p>
<p> </p>
Gio Franco
2014-11-12T20:29:00Z
Portland Timbers 2-4 Seattle Sounders from Providence Park
Mark Henty
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Portland-Timbers-2-4-Seattle-Sounders-from-Providence-Park/66713412247874390.html
2014-08-25T03:37:00Z
2014-08-25T03:37:00Z
<p><strong>MLS Game 25 – Providence Park</strong></p>
<p><strong>08/24/2014: Sunny, 26C/79F</strong></p>
<p><strong>Attendance: 20,814</strong></p>
<p><strong>Pre-game records: Portland Timbers (W7-D10-L7) vs. Seattle Sounders (W13-D3-L7)</strong></p>
<p><strong>Starting Line-ups: </strong></p>
<p><strong>Portland Timbers – </strong>GLK Donovan Ricketts, DEF Danny O’Rourke, DEF Norberto Paparatto, DEF Liam Ridgewell, DEF Michael Harrington, MID Will Johnson, MID Diego Chara, MID Gaston Fernandez, MID Darlington Nagbe, FWD Maximiliano Urruti, MID Diego Valeri. <strong>Formation: 4-2-3-1.</strong></p>
<p><strong>Seattle Sounders - </strong>GLK Stefan Frei, DEF DeAndre Yedlin, DEF Chad Marshall, DEF Zach Scott, DEF Leonardo Gonzalez, MID Brad Evans, MID Osvaldo Alonso, MID Gonzalo Pineda, MID Marco Pappa, FWD Obafemi Martins, FWD Clint Dempsey. <strong>Formation: 4-4-2.</strong></p>
<p><strong>Preview:</strong></p>
<p>It was a gloriously sunny day here in Portland, Oregon as the Portland Timbers hosted the Seattle Sounders for the second time this season at Providence Park. The last encounter at this ground resulted in an amazing 4-4 draw with two late goals from Clint Dempsey to rescue a point from a game that seemed to be far out of reach for the Sounders when the Timbers were 4-2 up with 8 minutes left on the clock. If this game had even half of the drama of that game, then the fans would surely be in for a treat on this beautiful summer’s day in the Pacific Northwest.</p>
<p>Both sides were coming off of 1-1 draws with the Timbers having earned their result at New England and Seattle drawing at home to San Jose. Seattle have gone slightly off the boil in recent weeks with 3 defeats in their last 6 MLS games while the Timbers were on a better run of form with 3 wins, 1 draw, and 2 defeats in their last 6 matches. Portland were just 2 points and 1 spot outside of the playoff places coming into this game and after an up and down season, they are looking to put a good run together to ensure a playoff berth while Seattle are comfortable tied at the top of the league.</p>
<p> <br /> <strong>Match Highlights:</strong></p>
<p><strong>1<sup>st</sup> Half</strong></p>
<p><strong>7 mins: </strong>After some feisty opening exchanges in a charged atmosphere, Darlington Nagbe wins a corner for the Timbers and Valeri’s delivery finds Urruti’s head on the edge of the 6 yard box and the ball hits Clint Dempsey’s raised arm in close range but the officials didn’t see it and nothing is given although it looked to be a penalty.</p>
<p><strong>10 mins: </strong>Diego Valeri takes a free kick from 25 yards out after Nagbe is fouled by DeAndre Yedlin and it deflected off the wall and grazed the top of the crossbar at the far post as the Timbers began to turn up the pressure on the Sounders goal.</p>
<p><strong>13 mins: </strong>An excellent move for the Sounders as Clint Dempsey and Obafemi Martins combine beautifully and it’s Dempsey who curls a shot low from just outside the penalty area and it beats Ricketts but not the far post and it remains 0-0.</p>
<p><strong>GOAL 17 mins: </strong>Some nice work up the right wing and Brad Evans breezes past Ridgewell to slot the ball low across the 6 yard box and <strong>Obafemi Martins </strong>is there to easily slot the ball home and put the away side ahead. Yet again, the Timbers have to try to come back from behind at home. <strong>Portland Timbers 0-1 Seattle Sounders.</strong></p>
<p><strong>21 mins: </strong>Seattle expose an again below par Portland defense as once again Clint Dempsey goes close with a thunderous shot from the edge of the box that sails over the bar.</p>
<p><strong>29 mins: </strong>Johnson and Valeri combine for Portland and Valeri hits one from the edge of the box and it deflects over the bar for a corner from which Paparatto also has an attempt deflected wide, this time a header as the Timbers look to get back into the match.</p>
<p><strong>GOAL 35 mins: </strong>Seattle score again and this time on the counter attack from a Portland corner. Obafemi Martins latches on to a flick out from a defending corner and he runs into the opposing half and has time to pick out a measured pass to <strong>Clint Dempsey</strong> who slots home under Ricketts from the edge of the penalty area and the Portland defense is found wanting yet again. <strong>Portland Timbers 0-2 Seattle Sounders.</strong></p>
<p>Seattle clearly had a game plan to catch the Timbers on the break and playing the ball out wide and it was very effective in the first half while the Timbers struggled once again at home to defend well and paid the price with two goals against and nothing in return despite having two possible handballs inside the penalty area turned down and hitting the woodwork twice. Despite once again having more of the possession and shots at home, Portland just could not find that scoring touch in the first half.</p>
<p><strong>Half Time Score: Portland Timbers 0-2 Seattle Sounders</strong></p>
<p><strong>Shots: POR 13-10 SEA</strong></p>
<p><strong>On Target: POR 3-3 SEA</strong></p>
<p><strong>Corners: POR 9-2 SEA</strong></p>
<p><strong>Possession: Portland Timbers 56.8%-43.2% Seattle Sounders</strong></p>
<p><strong> </strong></p>
<p><strong>2<sup>nd </sup>Half: </strong></p>
<p><strong>52 mins: </strong>Johnson burst through the middle and hits a low shot from the edge of the box but unfortunately it is not wide enough of the keeper Stefan Frei who parries it out and it falls to Danny O’Rourke and he hits it over the bar from a fairly tight angle. The Timbers were pushing more numbers forward in this second half looking for a comeback.</p>
<p><strong>GOAL 70 mins: </strong>Seattle take advantage of the Timbers going 3 at the back and Dempsey, Martins, and finally <strong>Chad Barrett</strong> find it all too easy to march into the Timbers penalty area and it’s Barrett who picks his spot and hammers the ball home from around 10 yards out to pile yet more misery onto the Portland faithful. <strong>Portland Timbers 0-3 Seattle Sounders.</strong></p>
<p><strong>GOAL 73 mins: </strong>Just when it looked all over, Rodney Wallace puts in a lovely cross from the left hand side and it’s Fernendo Adi who had just come onto the pitch who volleys it calmly into the net past Frei. Was this going to be yet another dramatic finish at Providence Park? <strong>Portland Timbers 1-3 Seattle Sounders.</strong></p>
<p><strong>GOAL 76 mins: </strong>Obafemi Martins turns back the clock as he and Dempsey combine and then he takes on 5 Timbers defenders and slots home past Ricketts for the goal of the day and kills off any hopes that the Timbers had of getting back into this match. <strong>Portland Timbers 1-4 Seattle Sounders.</strong></p>
<p><strong>87 mins: </strong>Fernendo Adi and former Sounder Steve Zakuani combine and it’s the latter who hits a low shot from the right hand side of the penalty and it fizzes just past the far post. Adi and Wallace have injected some much needed pace into the attacks for the Timbers but it’s all too late for the home side.</p>
<p><strong>GOAL 91 mins: </strong>Will Johnson slots a ball through to Steve Zakuani who wriggles free of defenders at the edge of the box but realizing that his path to goal is blocked, he slides the ball to the side and finds Fernendo Adi who scores for the second time in the match to grab a brace for the home side. <strong>Portland Timbers 2-4 Seattle Sounders.</strong></p>
<p><strong>Summary:</strong></p>
<p>This was a very classy performance from the Seattle Sounders who have looked a little shaky of late but they came to Portland with a game plan that allowed them to hurt a fragile Timbers defense with good wide play and two excellent displays from both Obafemi Martins and Clint Dempsey. Timbers coach Caleb Porter decided to go with Ridgewell and Paparatto as a central defensive partnership but to be honest Paparatto has not looked good at home all season and once again was poor in decision making and marking. <br /> <br /> For the Timbers? There are 9 games of the season left and unless they can get on a decent run of results soon, there will be no more games for them this season. It is their home form at the moment that is hurting them as they have only won 3 games all season at Providence Park and Caleb Porter will know that this has to improve if they are to stand any chance of making the playoffs for a 2<sup>nd</sup> season in a row. Possession does not win you games and the Timbers need to find some real cutting edge to their play in the final hurdles of the season.</p>
<p><br /> <strong>Full Time Score: Portland Timbers 2-4 Seattle Sounders</strong></p>
<p><strong>Shots: POR 21-16 SEA</strong></p>
<p><strong>Shots On Target: POR 6-6 SEA</strong></p>
<p><strong>Corners: POR 13-3 SEA</strong></p>
<p><strong>Possession: Portland Timbers 55.4%-44.6% Seattle Sounders</strong></p>
<p><strong>MOTM: Obafemi Martins – Seattle Sounders</strong></p>
<p> </p>
Mark Henty
2014-08-25T03:37:00Z
Big Phil's defensive snub
Gio Franco
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Big-Phils-defensive-snub/-646189231730454852.html
2014-07-21T22:52:00Z
2014-07-21T22:52:00Z
<p> </p>
<p>The World Cup has officially ended and the triumph of UEFA over COMMEBOL was evident when Argentina fell short 1-0 to Germany and Brazil being humbled again against Holland 3-0. The Argentines though did show up to the tournament prepared defensively only conceding four goals in the entire competition. Brazil on the other hand lacked defensively, in the group stage the Selecao conceded only twice but the squad looked vulnerable from the back. The opening game against Croatia showed their defensive frailties from the back line when the Croats scored first from a cross on the flank. The match against Cameroon the indomitable lions manage to grab their only goal of the competition by an attack from the Brazilian flank.</p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Joao Miranda Snub bra.jpg" alt="" width="430" height="350" /></p>
<p>After the group stage was the important knockout round of the tournament the Canarinhos defense was still pushed by Chile and Colombia. Brazil in the round of 16 faced off against the high pressing Chile. Chile forced the home side to penalties with Alexis Sanchez canceling out David Luiz's goal. In fact Chile could of stole the quarterfinal spot from Brazil if it wasn't for the woodwork. The quarterfinal match pitted the Selecao against a high tempo Colombia who was being spearheaded by the young maverick James Rodriguez. Brazil was able to score twice and defeat los cafeteros 2-1, limiting James Rodriguez to one goal but yet again Colombia had opportunities to win the game. The match against Colombia left Brazil crippled in attack and defensively as Thiago Silva picked up a yellow card to be suspended in the next match and Neymar broke his vertebrae from a challenge from Charles Zuniga.</p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Joao Miranda d skills snub.jpg" alt="" width="320" height="420" /></p>
<p>The following matches would soon unravel the Selecao's dreams of redeeming the ghosts of 1950. Brazil faced off in the semifinal against the mighty Germans who although hit some stumbles looked strong, confident, and professional. The semifinal ended in a horrendous drubbing of Brazil by die Mannschaft 7-1. Many would soon place an excuse on the Canarinhos semifinal on "lacking Thiago Silva, the defensive rock and captain of Brazil." But in truth even if Parisian based defender played against Germany, the Germans would of still prevailed. The third place game against the Netherlands looked to be the a way for Brazilians to galvanize themselves behind their team. In fact again the match against the Dutch would also show Brazil's lack defensively.</p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/filipe_luis def snub bra.jpg" alt="" width="450" height="365" /></p>
<p>When researching Brazil's defensive options one rather large question is raised in regards to Scolari's selection. Why was Joao Miranda and Filipe Luis omitted from the Selecao? The Brazilian duo that won the La Liga trophy this campaign for Atletico Madrid were not selected by "Big Phil" Scolari. The Colchoneros went on to win the La Liga trophy the 2013-2014 campaign; part of the success by Atletico Madrid last campaign was attributed to the Rojiblancos defense. The defense for Atletico Madrid boasted only allowing 26 goals out of 38 games in La Liga.</p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/filipe luis bra def snub.jpg" alt="" width="480" height="380" /></p>
<p>Many pundits, critics and fans have asked the question of "What if" Miranda and Luis were selected and played instead of Dante and Alves? Unfortunately the public will not know and although the World Cup was very thrilling. Many at first sight saw the selection for Brazil and thought to look away due to the majestic allure of the World Cup being played in a country that lives and the breathes the sport. Instead not many asked about the Brazilians capability to defend in this amazing tournament that only comes once every four years.</p>
<p><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Joao snub defense brasil.jpg" alt="" width="500" height="415" /></p>
Gio Franco
2014-07-21T22:52:00Z
Galaxy rout the Revs
Gio Franco
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Galaxy-rout-the-Revs/877038589428967921.html
2014-07-19T08:45:00Z
2014-07-19T08:45:00Z
<p>Robbie Keane and Gyasi Zardes were both in fine form Wednesday evening in Carson when the<a title="Los Angeles Galaxy homepage" href="http://www.lagalaxy.com/" target="_blank"> Los Angeles Galaxy</a> took on the <a title="New England Revolution homepage" href="http://www.revolutionsoccer.net/" target="_blank">New England Revolution</a>. The party started early when Robbie Keane opened the scoring with a goal in the 10th minute, a goal reminiscent of his glory days at <a title="Tottenham Hotspurs homepage" href="http://www.tottenhamhotspur.com/" target="_blank">Tottenham Hotspurs</a>. Baggio Husidic assisted the Galaxy number seven and the festivities would continue several minutes after. Gyasi Zardes was sent in on goal in the 15th minute but Shuttleworth saved his shot, the tempo of this game was set very quick by the Los Angeles Galaxy.</p>
<p><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Bunbury 5-1.jpg" alt="" width="475" height="300" /></p>
<p>The second goal of the night came for the Galaxy in the 18th minute. Stefan Ishizaki was deployed in the right midfield position and after fighting off a tackle and foul from the Revolutions Goncalves. Ishizaki was able beat past Goncalves tackle and foul to reach deep into the Revs own penalty box. The Swedish midfielder then sent in a low pass into the Revolution box, which Robbie Keane was able to pass it off into the path of the on running Zardes. Gyasi was able to receive the ball on the run and on his first touch blasted the ball into the back of the net for the Galaxy's second goal.</p>
<p><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/penalty v penedo 5-1.jpg" alt="" width="500" height="300" /></p>
<p>The night would then turn into a massive uphill battle for the New England Revolution when AJ Soares was sent off for studs up challenge on Juninho in the 28th minute. The obstacle placed ahead of the Revolution was evident, but they would be given a lifeline by the referee and the Los Angeles Galaxy's Dan Gargan. Gargan was sent off in the 35th minute for a cynical challenge on Bunbury, which awarded the Revolution with a penalty kick that Lee Nguyen was able to convert. At this point the match looked like it could potentially open up for both sides the Galaxy only led by one goal 2-1 and were also on a equal playing ground with each side playing with ten.</p>
<p><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Bruce Arena vs revs 5-1.jpg" alt="" width="550" height="320" /></p>
<p>After the halftime Bruce Arena looked to exploit the space that had opened up from the two sending offs. The Galaxy head coach decided to make a change; Landon Donovan came on for Baggio Husidic at the half. The scoring would resume as well after just three minutes from the restart when AJ de la Garza played Robbie Keane out wide on the left. Keane immediately whipped a low cross into the box where Gyasi Zardes was able to get on the other end of the ball. Zardes off his first touch redirected the ball high into the roof of Shuttleworth's net making it 3-1 to the Galaxy. At that moment Robbie had broken his scoring drought and assisted two of the Los Angeles Galaxy's goals.</p>
<p><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Landon v revs 5-1.jpg" alt="" width="260" height="400" /></p>
<p>Things would soon turn into a nightmare for the New England Revolution in the 75th minute. Stefan Ishizaki sent his free kick into the top of the wall which the ball took a nasty deflection off of both Bengston and Neumann and into the back of Shuttleworth's net making 4-1 to the hosts in the 75th minute. Things did not settle down there in the 75th minute, Robbie Keane would grab his second goal of the night in the 78th minute from a awful back pass by the Revs. Keane was easily able to run onto the pass that if made by a white shirt at the time many would revel in the passes perfection. Shuttleworth was forced to come out of his penalty area, which the veteran striker was able to round the goalie and easily slot home the fifth for the Galaxy and his second of the night.</p>
<p><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Ishizaki vs revs 5-1.jpg" alt="" width="480" height="340" /></p>
<p>The Los Angeles Galaxy has been undefeated in eight matches in Major League Soccer so far this campaign. The next test for the Galaxy will be the next two road matches coming up on the 19th and 28th of July. The Galaxy on Saturday the 19th will be entertained by Graham Zusi's <a title="Sporting Kansas City homepage" href="http://www.sportingkc.com/" target="_blank">Sporting Kansas City</a>. Kansas City currently sits top of the Eastern Conference and have been undefeated in five Major League matches. The next match on the 28th the Galaxy will be in Seattle taking on the number one team in Major League Soccer currently and number one in the Western Conference the <a title="Seattle Sounders homepage" href="http://www.soundersfc.com/" target="_blank">Seattle Sounders</a>. Will the Galaxy be able to continue their recent form into the next coming weeks, only time will tell.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Penedo action revs 5-1.jpg" alt="" width="500" height="365" /><br /><br /><strong><em>Photography credited to Angelica Orozco</em></strong></p>
Gio Franco
2014-07-19T08:45:00Z
Football betting at a record-breaking high
Rafa Gonzales
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Football-betting-at-a-record-breaking-high/-839887229641184208.html
2014-07-14T15:34:00Z
2014-07-14T15:34:00Z
<p>When <a title="Record-breaking Final" href="http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2690667/Its-big-one-German-Argentine-fans-reach-fever-pitch-teams-prepare-World-Cup-Final.html">Germany and Argentina went head to head at the World Cup Final</a>, English bookmakers were set to record some of the biggest takings in history. It seems that football has become an invaluable sport in the betting industry and wagers are currently hitting all-time highs, especially with some of the rather surprising moments the World Cup has produced.</p>
<p>Bookies were expected to take in around 40 million pounds for the final, breaking the previous record of the amount wagered on the 2012 Champions League Final between Bayern Munich and Chelsea. William Hill has already <a href="http://in.reuters.com/article/2014/07/11/us-soccer-world-gambling-idINKBN0FG0WO20140711">exceeded its 200 million pound target for this summer’s World Cup</a>, despite the home team’s rather hasty exit from the tournament. England’s biggest bookies have already doubled the amount wagered during the 2012 FIFA World Cup, and this shows the increase in the number of bettors who are taking an interest in this aspect of the sport.</p>
<p><img style="float: right; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/germany-world-cup-final-gotye-jpeg.jpg" alt="Record-breaking World Cup" width="350" />Sports betting sites are doing a roaring trade and this has had a knock-on effect on football entertainment, with slots games like Soccer Safari being in demand at sites like <a href="http://www.mobileslots.net">http://www.mobileslots.net</a><strong>. </strong>It’s clear that with mobile and online portals now available, sports betting is far more accessible to punters and there’s a whole new generation of bettor whose been putting their money behind their predictions in the hope of winning big.</p>
<p>Bookmakers have clearly capitalised on the World Cup and the amount of ads pushed during televised matches has certainly had an impact on reaching an all-time betting high. The tournament has also come at a good time for the industry, as when the new taxes come into effect they will be expected to shell out around 400 million pounds annually, so record breaking takings now are holding them in good stead.</p>
<p>It’s not only the bookies who are making money this World Cup; punters are also reaping the rewards from the surprise results of the games. <a href="http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2014-07-09/somebody-did-see-it-coming-as-four-win-germany-brazil-bet.html">4 lucky bettors struck it rich</a> when they put money on Germany to beat Brazil by an outlandish score of 7-1 in the semi, and there have been many others who have been surprised by their successful payouts.</p>
<p><img style="float: left; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/0,,17783154_303,00.jpg" alt="Germany beats Argentina" width="350" />The increase in football betting began long before the World Cup, but it’s almost certain that this event has attracted new punters who are contributing to the record breaking takings.</p>
Rafa Gonzales
2014-07-14T15:34:00Z
The Phantom of 1950 rests
Gio Franco
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/The-Phantom-of-1950-rests/-201843587665578620.html
2014-07-11T05:26:00Z
2014-07-11T05:26:00Z
<p>When discussing soccer in Brazil, or as many in the world say football, nothing brings Brazilians together more than futebol. Football folklore has always depicted Brazil as this mighty giant to watch over when playing against them. In the 1994 World Cup hosted in USA, Brazil defeated Italy in penalty kicks to take their fourth World Cup trophy. In 1998 the hosts then France would defeat Brazil 3-0 in the final, but in 2002 Brazil again won the World Cup defeating Germany 2-0. Claiming their fifth trophy the most by any football nation. Afterwards Brazil would fall short in the quarterfinals twice, once to France in 2006 and the other to the Netherlands in 2010. These defeats although at the world stage were not considered this football nation's low point in history.</p>
<p><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/tying goal uruguay 1950.jpg" alt="" width="350" height="225" /> </p>
<p>In the year 1950 Brazil hosted the World Cup for the first time in the wake of the aftermath of World War II. The World Cup also took a bit of a hiatus due to the fact the entire globe was practically locked in armed struggle. The setup to the tournament back then was made into four groups and the winners of the group were placed into a final group, which the winner of the group won the tournament. The Brazilians in 1950 looked as promising and confident as they ever could be. The Selecao in 1950 were sharp, technical and confident. Brazil defeated Mexico in the opening match 4-0; the only hiccup appeared to occur against the Swiss when they drew Brazil 2-2. The Selecao would finish their group on top with a 2-0 victory over Yugoslavia, which booked the hosts to the final group.</p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/David Luiz post 1-7 2014.jpg" alt="" width="400" height="275" /></p>
<p> The hosts then entertained Sweden in the first game of the final group and made the Swede's feel the wrath of the Selecao. The Swedes were completely deflated by the hosts, 7-1 at the Maracana in Rio de Janeiro. The Verde-Amarela would also make mince meat out of Spain, defeating the Spanish 6-1. The Canarinhos looked poised to take the trophy at that point, Brazil only had one more game to play against Uruguay knowing that even a draw would see them to glory. The Uruguayans who were the winners of the first World Cup had drawn their first match of the final group against Spain 2-2 and won 3-2 against Sweden.</p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/tears brazil 1-7 2014.jpg" alt="" width="420" height="300" /></p>
<p>The final match between Brazil and Uruguay would echo in Brazilian minds and dreams for generations. Brazil would soon put their hands on the trophy during the final, scoring the first goal in the 47th minute making it 1-0 to the hosts. What would unfold 19 and 32 minutes later would silence an entire crowd of 170,000 and the voices of an entire nation. Uruguay scored in the 66th minute to tie the match and again in the 77th minute to steal the World Cup trophy from the hosts. Uruguay emerged victorious to achieve their second World Cup trophy at the expense of the hosts and Moacir Barbosa (goalkeeper then) who was the scapegoat for the loss. </p>
<p><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/tears brazil 2014 1-7.jpg" alt="" width="200" height="300" /> </p>
<p>Today although Moacir past away in April of 2000 can finally be exonerated for something he wasn't entirely "responsible" for. That 2-1 defeat back in 1950 has now been completely exorcised. After Tuesday's fever dream score line which if it wasn't for Julio Cesar could of been far worst than how it ended. Brazil's lowest low from 1950 has been surpassed and surpassed with flying colors. The Canarinhos were totally and completely humbled when they played Germany Tuesday afternoon in Belo Horizonte, losing 1-7. Many described the night in 1950 as a sad day in Brazil football folklore, but if that was a sad day and it echoed for generations after. The drubbing that Brazil received Tuesday will ring through the annals of football history for an eternity.</p>
<p><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/tears brasil fans 2014 1-7.jpg" alt="" width="420" height="275" /> </p>
<p>The semifinal Brazil played against Germany will be in the dreams haunting Brazilians for what can possibly be an eternity. Especially if the "phantom of 1950" loomed in Brazilian folklore 64 years later to today in 2014. Tuesday's 7-1 defeat has to echo in the history of Brazilian football forever which millions of viewers and football enthusiasts will always remember Brazil's worse ever defeat on Brazilian soil in their history. </p>
<p><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/tears flow brasil 2014 1-7.jpg" alt="" width="460" height="330" /></p>
<p> </p>
Gio Franco
2014-07-11T05:26:00Z
Fitness With Football: Week 1
Oliver Wilson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Fitness-With-Football:-Week-1/238606412091901843.html
2014-07-10T13:26:00Z
2014-07-10T13:26:00Z
I honestly don't know what I was thinking. <br /><br />It seemed like a really good idea at the time, to get fit after a summer of doing very little. The trouble is that I'd forgotten how much this sort of training takes it out of you. <br /><br />Before I go any further, let me explain what's happening. <br /><br />Three times a week, myself and a couple of friends, will be running high intensity football drills on BerkoAstro near my home town. The idea is to improve our fitness and our footballing ability, two things that I needed before the World Cup even began. We all play on Monday nights together so the four sessions of football, combined with three or four gym visits a week should do the world of good.<br /><br />The sessions, in theory, should be more fun than just going to the gym and using a treadmill or going for a run because, as we all know, the only thing better than watching football is playing football. When you play football I find that I do a lot more cardio, push myself that little bit more, because there's an end goal to the process, going in search of that wonder-volley etc.<br /><br />It was interesting to see on our first session just have addictive it is to play the game, especially when you've got 15 footballs and a big open area to have a knock about in. As soon as we'd finished pumping them up we couldn't get them away from our feet, except when one of us struck a wayward shot that we had to go and chase - that actually happened a lot. <br /><iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/Vi80jpxtf5s" frameborder="0"></iframe><br />Because one of us (TOBY) couldn't be in attendance in these first couple of sessions, we decided to take it slow and just sort out a handful of the drills and give them a few test runs. Even with this, supposedly, more casual approach to the sessions we still got moving and ran ourselves into the ground. It became more and more apparent that both Jon and myself's estimations of our own fitness levels had been much higher than they actually are. <br /><br />After just a few runs of the first two drills on the Tuesday and then three runs each of three drills the following day I can honestly say I was shattered and Wednesday night's sleep came pretty easily after the Argentina v Holland World Cup semi-final. <br /><br />It's been a serious wakeup call and, although I was able to hit the goal in both sessions of getting at least 3000 fuel points - I hadn't been wearing the Fuel Band until I got to the sessions - it's just gone to show how much I really need this. <br /><br />There will be a little more reflection and review of the Fuel Band and its ability to motivate as we go through the weeks, and hopefully we'll improve (10 minute videos of us missing the target aren't going to be fun for anyone to watch) but at least we've broken ground on this plan.<br /><br />Week 1, the casual week, is in the books. <br /><br />We'll be back with week two when the intensity level is meant to go up......uh oh.
Oliver Wilson
2014-07-10T13:26:00Z
Albiceleste clash with the Clockwork Oranje
Gio Franco
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Albiceleste-clash-with-the-Clockwork-Oranje/-988008030251432575.html
2014-07-09T06:07:00Z
2014-07-09T06:07:00Z
<p> </p>
<p>Messi and company are set to take on the Clockwork Oranje in a few hours; many eyes will be glued to this particular match from all over the globe. Rightly so, after some critics vouched both teams to be considered dark horses since both sides performed abysmally in their regional cup competitions before the World Cup. Argentina has been described in this tournament as being dependent on "la Pulga " (Lionel Messi). Holland in the group stage was clinical but at certain moments was pushed and the Dutch were more than bumped around in the knockout round. </p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/messi v belge.jpg" alt="" width="450" height="320" /></p>
<p>Albiceleste currently do emulate their squad from the past, when Juan Roman Riquelme was the provider and supplier of much of Argentina's goals. Currently the role and responsibility of that Argentina number ten shirt rests on one Lionel Messi. After what was a very upsetting and dismal season with FC Barcelona, "La Pulga" looks motivated and determined to make up for that horrid season in La Liga. During the group phase of the tournament Lionel Messi would score four out of the six goals scored in the group. After the Group Albiceleste faced the resilient Swiss, who managed to take Argentina all the way to the end of extra time losing to a Lionel Messi assisted goal to Di Maria. Argentina would also edge Belgium in the same manner they did Switzerland, winning on a goal based on Messi's determination, this time finished by Gonzalo Higuain inside 90 minutes.</p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/messi winning goal iran.jpg" alt="" width="400" height="255" /></p>
<p>Argentina proved to show some kind of defensive fortitude as well limiting their opponents to three goals in the group and none in the knockout round. The goals in the Nigeria game although were made by players who had pace to run at the Argentine back line, Holland might have some attacking threats facing the Albiceleste that fit that criteria. The Argentinean defense must be vigilant when handling the Dutch, Marcos Rojo, Garay and Mascherano will be working overtime.</p>
<p><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/robben vs mexico 2014.jpg" alt="" width="480" height="290" /> </p>
<p>Clockwork Oranje is one interesting machine to look over, their veteran attacking lineup is one to stand up to take notice for. The likes of Arjen Robben, Robin van Persie (going through stomach issues possible food poisoning, he may not play tomorrow), and Wesley Sneijder are all massive threats to observe. Robben is a massive attacking threat (no matter what Rafa tells you) the man has pace if a defender falls asleep on him, Arjen can punish you. Nigel de Jong might possibly make a return also for the Netherlands, which should be a massive defensive boost in the midfield. Louis Van Gaal has so far done everything right in regards to tactics and set up for his side.</p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/van persie goal vs spain.jpg" alt="" width="490" height="360" /></p>
<p>Louis Van Gaal has one more test left, if his tough determined Oranje side could get pass Messi and company. Will Holland perform and make it to another World Cup Final with the possibility of finally gaining World Cup glory? Or will Sabella's Argentina book their place into final instead of Holland? Only time will tell who will progress to the final and who will emerge as the best football nation in the world.</p>
<p><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Louis Van Gaal hooland 2014.jpg" alt="" width="240" height="370" /></p>
Gio Franco
2014-07-09T06:07:00Z
Selecao must adapt against Germany
Gio Franco
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Selecao-must-adapt-against-Germany/-541903931850738236.html
2014-07-08T00:10:00Z
2014-07-08T00:10:00Z
<p> </p>
<p>The group stage is over, the round of 16 washed; quarterfinals have just simmered down and now on to the crescendo. The opening rounds of the World Cup gave many spectators the lure they wanted, especially here in the United States. Even after the elimination of the US Men's National Team to Belgium, the magic of the World Cup has enthralled many merely by watching the superstars perform. The time has come to the final four in the tournament with Brazil taking on Germany and Argentina will be taking on the Netherlands. In some ways these giants were thought to make it this far in the tournament now.</p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/david-luiz-goal brazil .jpg" alt="" width="455" height="400" /></p>
<p>The next game Tuesday will be the large semifinal between the hosts Brazil and Germany. The quarterfinal on how both teams reached the semifinal were both tricky and unfortunately for Brazil their quarterfinal result is rather more pyrrhic than decisive. The match up Germany had in the earlier game on Friday was against France. Both Germany and France showed their dominance in the group stage; also they showed how they could also stutter. France in the group entertained a very drool 0-0 match against Ecuador in the group; Germany also had a tough but also very thrilling 2-2 draw against Ghana in the group stages. Although the Germans at times this tournament looked a bit slow, they have been physical enough to get the job done. Germany had a tough ordeal to get as far as they have, 1-0 against France after 90 minutes and stretched to 2-1 after extra time against Algeria.</p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/bastian schweini brazil 2014.jpg" alt="" width="450" height="300" /></p>
<p>Brazil on the other hand entertained two tough South American opponents in the knockout phase of the tournament. The match against Chile stretched the hosts, being forced to play 120 minutes and take the game to a stressful penalty kick showdown. Which Brazil emerged victorious over the Chileans after Chile, Brazil faced a tough much-hyped Colombia, who was led by the young talisman James Rodriguez. The match against Colombia pushed and beaten the Brazilians physically but the score board had a different story. The Selecao found themselves ahead in the early stages of the match after Thiago Silva struck home a goal off a set piece. David Luiz would add the second from a beautifully taken free kick to make the dreams of many Brazilians come to a possibility. Despite conceding a penalty kick later in the match Brazil was able to withstand the onslaught and prevailed 2-1.</p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/hummels brazil 2014 goal v france.jpg" alt="" width="425" height="300" /></p>
<p> Although there are some notes to take into the Selecao's semifinal against Germany on Tuesday. Brazil will be without Thiago Silva, who is rated as one of the best defenders in the world today. Thiago Silva is suspended for the semifinal game against Germany for an accumulation of yellow cards. Thiago Silva is not the only player who will not be able to play in the semifinal; Neymar suffered a broken vertebra after being kneed in the back by Colombia's Zuniga. Neymar will not only be out of the semifinal but more than likely done for the remainder of the tournament. A broken vertebra is a rather serious matter, if one were to watch his post match video and saw how rigid the young man looked. It's a rather serious injury that will set both Neymar and Brazil back a bit.</p>
<p><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Muller brazil 2014.jpg" alt="" width="420" height="300" /> </p>
<p>Brazil will now take on the strong and physical Germany, who although had a few hiccups in qualifying in the knockout rounds against both Algeria and France. The Germans will be definitely looking forward to this match since it’s more than evident the advantage does goes to Germany. Two large questions loom over Brazil and their national team for the semifinal. Who will score the goals with Neymar out with a broken vertebra? Who will lock up the defense with Thiago Silva on suspension? Heads will now turn to Fred and Hulk in the form of attack to cover for the injured Neymar. The pressure has also fallen onto possibly Dante the Bayern Munich defender who unfortunately hasn't played his tournament but perhaps does know a thing or two in regards to the against some of his team mates at Bayern Munich.</p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/fans brazil 2014.jpg" alt="" width="450" height="315" /></p>
<p>The World Cup is slowly coming to an end, although hope is somewhat dwindling for the home side. Another factor to take into account in the first semifinal match, the twelfth man will more than likely be out in force. Brazilians will be behind their team, their Selecao, even though on paper Germany might enjoy being considered the favorite. Average Brazilians know what is at stake in this clash of titans Tuesday, one thing is also for sure the world and all of Brazil will be on pause for those possible two hours. The tension and stress that will be exhibited in this matchup will be one for the history books of sporting events. <br /><br /><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/brazil 2014 fans .jpg" alt="" width="400" height="265" /><br /><br /> Who would want to let these fans down?!?!</p>
Gio Franco
2014-07-08T00:10:00Z
Portland Timbers 0-1 Sporting Kansas City from Providence Park
Mark Henty
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Portland-Timbers-0-1-Sporting-Kansas-City-from-Providence-Park/531357394667755402.html
2014-06-28T05:17:00Z
2014-06-28T05:17:00Z
<p><strong>MLS Game 17– Providence Park</strong></p>
<p><strong>06/27/2014: Partly Cloudy, 19C/66F</strong></p>
<p><strong>Attendance: 20,814</strong></p>
<p><strong>Pre-game records: Portland Timbers (W4-D8-L4) vs. Sporting Kansas City (W6-D4-L5)</strong></p>
<p><strong>Starting Line-ups: </strong></p>
<p><strong>Portland Timbers – </strong>GLK Donovan Ricketts, DEF Michael Harrington, DEF Danny O’Rourke, DEF Pa Modou Kah, DEF Jorge Villafana, MID Will Johnson, MID Diego Chara, MID Diego Valeri, FWD Darlington Nagbe, FWD Fernando Adi, FWD Rodney Wallace. <strong>Formation: 4-3-3.</strong></p>
<p><strong>Sporting Kansas City - </strong>GLK Eric Kronberg, DEF Igor Juliao, DEF Aurelien Collin, DEF Kevin Ellis, DEF Seth Sinovic, MID Sal Zizzo, MID Lawrence Olum, MID Paulo Nagumara, MID Jacob Peterson, FWD Dominic Dwyer, FWD Soony Saad. <strong>Formation: 4-4-2.</strong></p>
<p><strong>Preview:</strong></p>
<p>World Cup fever had most certainly hit the Rose City and an already soccer mad town was flying high on the buzz from the events going on in Brazil, most especially due to the success of the United States Men’s National Team. For the Timbers, this was game 17 of the league season putting them at the midway point of the current campaign. Caleb Porter will not have been too happy with where the Timbers sit in the table but they have put in some excellent performances, especially in recent games to suggest that the side could really put in a big push in the second half of the season.</p>
<p>Two acquisitions that should help that push for the Timbers will be the new completed signings of Fanendo Adi who was already on loan from Danish club FC Copenhagen, and experienced center back Liam Ridgewell, signed from English side West Bromwich Albion to fill out the clubs quota for designated players along with Diego Valeri, already at the club. Adi has already shown true quality in the matches that he has played for the Timbers and he has already banged in 4 goals in just 6 appearances. Ridgewell will bring stability to the leaky defence and at 29, he has plenty of years left in him and he has faced some of the best strikers around having played the past 11 seasons in the Barclays Premier League in England.</p>
<p>The Timbers and Kansas City had already met this week in the U.S. Open Cup fifth round match with the Timbers running out 3-1 winners at Kansas City. In their last league games, Portland came from behind to grab a late draw with FC Dallas while Kansas put a stop to a 5 game streak without a win by beating Houston Dynamo by 2 goals to 0. Providence Park was rocking for the return of former Timber Sal Zizzo and expecting quite a game.</p>
<p><br /> <strong>Match Highlights:</strong></p>
<p><strong>1<sup>st</sup> Half</strong></p>
<p><strong>7 mins: </strong>The first real opportunity of the match after a lively start from both sides comes to Will Johnson after a Diego Valeri corner was only headed out to the edge of the penalty area and the Captain almost drilled his shot through a crowd of players but a deflection to the sting off of it and Eric Kronberg gratefully scooped the ball up into his arms. Sporting KC were also showing plenty of attacking prowess in the early moments as they probed on multiple occasions down the wings, looking to get good quality balls into the heart of the Timbers defence that has conceded 27 goals so far this season.</p>
<p><strong>14 mins: </strong>Portland break well and Chara finds Darlington Nagbe on the right hand side and his measured cross meets Fanendo Adi’s head perfectly and the ball hits the back of the net but the linesman correctly flags for offside, but only by the slightest margin. Timbers coach Caleb Porter is not happy with the decision though. Then there was an amazing spell of possession for the Portland Timbers who between the 15-20<sup>th</sup> minutes of the game had a staggering 87.5% of the ball. The home side were really beginning to get on the ball and string their passes together.</p>
<p><strong>24 mins: </strong>A throw in that was questionably but correctly awarded to Sporting Kansas City close to the Portland by-line was launched in by specialist Seth Sinovic and Kevin Ellis manages to nudge the ball in the penalty area to <strong>Lawrence Olum</strong> who made no mistake and fired the ball low and hard past Ricketts from 10 yards out. Yet again, despite good possession, the Timbers found themselves behind at home. <strong>Portland Timbers 0-1 Sporting Kansas City.</strong></p>
<p><strong>37 mins: </strong>In almost a carbon copy to the disallowed goal from Adi, this time Diego Valeri finds himself on the right hand side just at the right corner of the 18 yard box and curls in an inviting cross that is met by Darlington Nagbe and his header just flies past the far post. So close again for the Timbers who were pressing in the quest to find the equalizer.</p>
<p><strong>Half Time Score: Portland Timbers 0-1 Sporting Kansas City</strong></p>
<p><strong>Shots: POR 7-6 KAN</strong></p>
<p><strong>On Target: POR 2-3 KAN</strong></p>
<p><strong>Corners: POR 3-3 KAN</strong></p>
<p><strong>Possession: Portland Timbers 60.9%-39.1% Sporting Kansas City</strong></p>
<p><strong> </strong></p>
<p><strong>2<sup>nd </sup>Half: </strong></p>
<p><strong>46 mins: </strong>Almost right off the bat, Sporting KC threaten the Timbers goal again via another long throw from Sinovic and this time it’s Olum who gets a flick on but the Timbers defence this time is able to get the ball away and on the break Valeri so nearly finds Adi in acres of space in the center of the park but just puts too much on the pass that would have put the new signing through on goal.</p>
<p><strong>54 mins: </strong>As the Timbers begin to press the game, Rodney Wallace manages to keep the ball in close to the byline and backheels it beautifully to Will Johnson who twists and turns past two Sporting KC defenders and then delivers a decent ball in but the away side get it clear. The Timbers were now really beginning to pin Sporting Kansas City back into their own half, surely it was just a matter of time until a clear cut chance fell to the home side.</p>
<p><strong>64 mins: </strong> After relentless pressure from the Timbers, including 90% possession of the ball in the 55-60 segment of the game, Sporting KC hit on the break and after a good tackle from Diego Chara to obtain the ball he gives the ball away to danger man Dwyer when dribbling out and Dwyer’s shot is brilliantly saved at close range by Donovan Ricketts in the Portland goal. A reminder that despite all the possession, the Timbers could still be caught out on the break.</p>
<p><strong>77 mins: </strong>Darlington Nagbe with another excellent piece of skills as he glided past 3 defenders and reaches the byline but once again the ball drilled along the ground reaches a Sporting KC player who had defended very well. 5 minutes later Adi is found with a deep ball from Danny O’Rourke but once again his header goes over the bar when it really should have been on target. Portland were still pressing hard but with all their possession, they were still only able to muster 3 shots on goal through the 82<sup>nd</sup> minute.</p>
<p><strong>Summary:</strong></p>
<p>Another frustrating night for Caleb Porter and the home side who suffer their second defeat at home this season in the league, two more than in the whole of last season. The statistics showed that the Timbers dominated possession more than in any other game this season at Providence Park but never really looked like scoring against a resilient Sporting KC defence. The Timbers late on even brought on Urruti for Harrington and went with 3 at the back in an attempt to push the game even further forward and even thought the pressure was relentless at times in this second half, Portland just couldn’t find a way through the Sporting KC defence and to the away sides credit, it never really looked likely either.<br /> <br /> Caleb Porter must be happy with how Portland has kept the ball in this game (exactly double the passes completed at 490 to 245) but once again frustrated with the lack of goals to possession ratio. I am sure that any coach would rather take the goals and victories over the ability to keep the ball. Fanendo Adi had an off night and spurned many opportunities with his head but Nagbe was tireless and Rodney Wallace looked pacey and did well to stretch the Kansas back line on many occasions. With Liam Ridgewell coming in and Fanendo Adi having better nights than this, the Timbers will surely turn the corner once again and get back on track for the play off places.</p>
<p><br /> <strong>Full Time Score: Portland Timbers 0-1 Sporting Kansas City (Olum 24)</strong></p>
<p><strong>Shots: POR 11-9 KAN</strong></p>
<p><strong>Shots On Target: POR 3-4 KAN</strong></p>
<p><strong>Corners: POR 7-5 KAN</strong></p>
<p><strong>Possession: Portland Timbers 66.9%-33.1% Sporting Kansas City</strong></p>
<p> </p>
Mark Henty
2014-06-28T05:17:00Z
LA Galaxy draws against Chivas in LA Classico
Gio Franco
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/LA-Galaxy-draws-against-Chivas-in-LA-Classico/998309620139296136.html
2014-06-13T01:05:00Z
2014-06-13T01:05:00Z
<p>The World Cup always brings drama into the MLS, simply by the timing of the League and the tournament leaves the possibility of heroes to step up for Club when their colleagues are away in Brazil. Many USA supporters were in fact dumbfounded when Landon Donovan was exempt from the squad. Although Jurgen Klinsmann snubbed Donovan from the final 23-man squad selection, Bruce Arena is enjoying the fruit of Jurgen's exemption. Since Jurgen left the Los Angeles number ten off the roster, Landon has scored three times in three games for the Galaxy. Donovan has also found perhaps a little extra motivation to his game for the Los Angeles Galaxy.</p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Landon v Chivas lagvchv.jpg" alt="" width="500" height="390" /></p>
<p>The Los Angeles Classico June 8th was an interesting affair since only one player from the two teams would be participating in the World Cup in a few days. Many have been slightly critical of the <a title="Los Angeles Galaxy homepage" href="http://www.lagalaxy.com/" target="_blank">Los Angeles Galaxy</a> recently with Omar Gonzalez leaving to compete in Brazil, who will fill that spot as a center back for Los Angeles. On this occasion June eighth, AJ DeLaGarza played next to Leonardo in central defense; Robbie Rogers assumed AJ's post as the left back. <a title="Chivas USA homepage" href="http://www.cdchivasusa.com/" target="_blank">Chivas USA</a> also had one of their players called to international duty in Brazil; Oswaldo Minda was called into the Ecuadorian national team for the injured Segundo Castillo. All the tactical and technical corrections made in defense for the Galaxy the first blood to be spilt was the Galaxy's. Martin Rivero was able to surge into the LA box in the 20th minute mark, picking out Erick Torres. “Cubo” took two touches, his first almost forcing him out of position, but “Cubo” fired his shot into the net making it 0-1 to Chivas.</p>
<p><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Ishizaki vs chivas LAGVCHV.jpg" alt="" width="480" height="350" /> </p>
<p>The Galaxy were able to pull themselves level 15 minutes after the first goal after a run of strong build ups against the Chivas USA goal. A probing effort occurred on the Chivas left flank in the 35th minute Stefan Ishizaki laid the ball into the right hand side of the goats box. Marcelo Sarvas was able to cross the ball into the box for Gyasi Zardes to head the game level at 1-1. Many usual spectators of the Los Angeles Classico have got used to the idea of the Galaxy emerging victorious against Chivas, but this time around Chivas would prove to be far more resilient than times before.</p>
<p><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Rosales vs lagvchv.jpg" alt="" width="500" height="375" /> </p>
<p>After the interval the flow of the match did not subside much, the only factor that depicted so was the score line unfortunately. With both sides playing with high levels of intensity and physicality overflowing at both ends of the pitch. Chivas USA came close to taking the lead again in the 70th minute when Martin Rivero again threaded a ball for Rosales to dangerously chip into the box. The cross however was easily picked out by the Galaxy defense. The match ended in a 1-1 draw even though the attack did not find a break another breakthrough in the second half. Much has to be said of the defense and midfield for both sides that played with extreme amounts of fortitude.</p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Barrers vs AJ chvvlag.jpg" alt="" width="475" height="355" /></p>
<p>The <a title="Bruce Arena's post game press conference" href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HimEXwzy7sw" target="_blank">post game press conference</a> much was said of both sides, Bruce Arena was vocal about in regards to his side’s inability to score a second goal. The media quickly pointed out some topics for the upcoming weeks as the Galaxy have two players missing. Omar Gonzalez currently is in Brazil with the US Men's National Team and other designated player Robbie Keane is on international duty for Ireland. Robbie Keane is due to return for the Los Angeles Galaxy soon as Ireland plays Portugal tonight in New Jersey. Bruce Arena was also quick to reiterate that the season is "long" and that "there is plenty of time to work out the necessities" to get the Galaxy on a winning track.</p>
<p><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Zardes equalizer v chv.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="365" /> </p>
<p><a title="Wilmer Cabrera's post game press conference" href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sSd99siZoKc" target="_blank">Wilmer Cabrera</a> on the other hand was more upbeat since his last encounter here against the Galaxy yielded a humiliating 3-0 loss. The goats are in a transition phase, but perhaps it is more along the lines of a metamorphosis since their recent acquisition of players. Martin Rivero particularly has proved to be a vital cog in the center midfield for the Rojiblancos in regards to attack and defense. As brought up in the post game press conference Martin Rivero is described as a "box to box player." Midfield players that can perform both attacking and defensive duties in the modern game are a tough feat. Players with said attribute can be a strong basis to a possible resurgence in the upcoming future. </p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/juninho v chv classsss.jpg" alt="" width="645" height="395" /></p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong><em>Photography accredited to Angelica Orozco</em></strong></p>
Gio Franco
2014-06-13T01:05:00Z
The Real Reason Behind Klinsmann's Donovan Decision
Rafa Gonzales
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/The-Real-Reason-Behind-Klinsmanns-Donovan-Decision/-244242162547812974.html
2014-06-05T19:16:00Z
2014-06-05T19:16:00Z
By now, every one and their moms have an opinion on why the <a title="US Soccer" href="http://www.ussoccer.com/" target="_blank"><strong>United States Men's National Team</strong></a> Coach Jurgen Klinsmann left American Soccer legend Landon Donovan off the 23 man roster for Rio this Summer. This article isn't to say that they are necessarily right or wrong, rather after reading your perspective may have changed.<br /><br />I'm not saying I agree with Jurgen in the decision. Even the <a title="Online Bookmaker" href="http://www.onlinebookmakers.co/" target="_blank">bookmaker</a> is skeptical about the move. The quotes from the US Boss explaining his decision are endless. The one that stands out the most is the one where he states that there are three or four other players on the list who were simply better than Landon.<br /><br />No matter how you measure a player statically, Landon leads this country in just about any department. Hell, Landon leads much of the international footballing community in a lot of statistical areas. If you wanted to compare players by technical ability, Donovan is still one of the most gifted of the American players. Experience? How about three World Cups worth. Maybe fitness? LD has been the most rested he's been for a World Cup, all while still managing to push himself while playing for club and country the past four years.<br /><br /><a title="Online Bookmaker" href="http://www.onlinebookmakers.co/" target="_blank"><img style="float: right; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/LDlag01.jpg" alt="Landon for Los Angeles Galaxy" width="300" /></a>So what is the real reason Jurgen Klinsmann left the most highly decorated American soccer star of the 2014 World Cup Roster for the United States? Because he can.<br /><br />Backed by a new contract extension that pushed the German's job through the next World Cup cycle, plus the fact that the Americans face a daunting task in the Group of Death this tournament, Jurgen decided that now was the perfect time to leave Landon off and really stamp his mark on the team and work towards a definite future. <br /><br />Landon is an American Old Guard if there ever was one. By leaving this player off, it also gives Jurgen complete control and trust from his squad. By leaving Landon off the roster, Jurgen is re-emphasizing his belief in the men he selected. This should bolster their confidence and push them to be at their best.<br /><br />Having limited expectation thanks to a tough group also helped Jurgen make this decision. With expectations understandably low, Jurgen can experiment some with his selection and play of the team in Brazil. He'll be able to bring about new leaders in a squad which could use a fresh new face in front of the masses. <br /><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/jurgen-klinsmann.jpg" alt="Jurgen Klinsmann" width="400" /><br />Again, I'm not saying any of this is right or wrong, but it's the truth. Jurgen made this decision because he would have to eventually and doing it now, like ripping off a band-aid in one quick pull, stings a lot at first, but you soon forget about it. Maybe the 23 Americans can give the United States something to forget about.
Rafa Gonzales
2014-06-05T19:16:00Z
Dark Horses to keep a watchful eye over
Gio Franco
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Dark-Horses-to-keep-a-watchful-eye-over/-385393046060217446.html
2014-06-05T03:45:00Z
2014-06-05T03:45:00Z
<p> The <a title="FIFA homepage" href="http://www.fifa.com/worldcup/" target="_blank">World Cup</a> is vastly approaching and many have asked the simple question, "Who do you think will win it all?" The more intriguing question although must be "who will surprise us all at the World Cup?" The dark horse concept has more than appealed many to witness quality football talent all over the globe. The most recent Copa America Argentina 2011 many saw that all considered the dark horse of the tournament Uruguay, win the competition. The last World Cup in South Africa La Celeste (Uruguay) again impressed reaching the semifinals and losing to a tough Holland team 3-2. Uruguay also fell short in the third place match up against Germany 3-2, granted Uruguay pushed the Germans to the final kick, which Forlan sent over the wall for the post to be the only obstacle in the way of the Uruguayans from a third place finish on the world stage.</p>
<p><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Luis Suarez uruguay.jpg" alt="" width="545" height="350" /> </p>
<p>Evident so far one of the dark horses to watch in this tournament is in fact <a title="Uruguay FIFA webpage" href="http://www.fifa.com/worldcup/teams/team=43930/" target="_blank">Uruguay</a>. The Uruguayans have been a Jekyll and Hyde team to confront when it came to CONMEBOL qualifications for la Celeste. Since Uruguay had to play in the regional playoff against Jordan to qualify since they landed in fifth place in CONMEBOL qualifications. After humbling lowly Jordan, Uruguay became the sixth nation representing South America in the World Cup. Uruguay does have a reputation to "spoil the party" when they play favorites of tournaments. The Brazilians know it best, when they last hosted a World Cup in 1950, instead of the host nation winning the World Cup; the Uruguayans came back from a 0-1 goal deficit to win 2-1. La Celeste won their second World Cup that time in 1950. Since 2010 Uruguay has been a successful dark horse when they won the Copa America in 2011 and they are definitely a team to watch this time around in the World Cup.</p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Godin puma uruguay.jpg" alt="" width="400" height="500" /></p>
<p>There are a multitude of players to watch for la Celeste, take your pick in which position (don't ask about the goalie). Leading the Uruguayan attack most likely will be Liverpool forward Luis Suarez, but Uruguay has more depth in attack than some would think. Joining Luis will be Edinson Cavani which although had a tough time in Paris, Cavani always had a reputation of performing for la Celeste. The old Guard will be there with Diego Forlan, Diego Lugano, Maxi Pereira, Diego Perez, Diego Godin, and Alvaro Pereira. Young players to watch if they get a chance to play during the tournament would be the young forward Abel Hernandez who aided Palermo back into Serie A next Season and Nicolas Lodeiro who was just recently picked up by Brazilian giants Corinthians. Especially now since la Celeste has been grouped with England, Italy and Costa Rica they will need all the help they can get for a tough battle with England, Italy and Costa Rica. </p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Abel Palermo uruguay.jpg" alt="" width="450" height="450" /></p>
<p>This time around Uruguay will not be the only dark horse to watch out for there is four others to keep a watchful eye over. One of the other dark horses is also from South America and the other three come from Europe.</p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Joao Moutinho portugal.jpg" alt="" width="380" height="460" /></p>
<p>The <a title="Portugal FIFA webpage" href="http://www.fifa.com/worldcup/teams/team=43963/" target="_blank">Navegadores</a> will venture to Brazil with the ballon d'or winner Cristiano Ronaldo hopefully spearheading the Portuguese attack. Even though much is not known of the Selecao das Quinas besides their star number seven Cristiano. The players to watch are not really as much as the Real Madrid winger but more along the lines of the number eight Joao Moutinho, four Miguel Veloso and number six William Carvalho. The midfield for Portugal will be key to the selecao's success if it arrives this year. Moutinho will be the key cog when it comes to feeding balls to the attacking third of the field. Veloso and Carvalho will both be likely called into action to perform defensive duties in the midfield battle that’s bound to ensue.</p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Miguel Veloso portugal.jpg" alt="" width="380" height="510" /></p>
<p>Due to the fact that the first game for Os Navegadores is against Germany a result would be enough for the Portuguese to take to their second game. Contending against the Germans won't be an easy feat; the entire squad will be called upon to keep the German onslaught at bay. Starting from Rui Patricio in between the posts to Ronaldo pushing in attack. Especially now after the recent death of what Antonio Salazar called a national treasure, Eusebio, motivation for the Portuguese might travel with the Seleccao in spirit to the former Portuguese colony.</p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/William Carvalho portugal.jpg" alt="" width="400" height="400" /></p>
<p>The <a title="Holland FIFA webpage" href="http://www.fifa.com/worldcup/teams/team=43960/" target="_blank">clockwork orange</a> have always been considered a tough opponent to contend with. Recent years there has been no other team to fall apart in more fantastic fashion. Now with the looming departure of their coach Louis van Gaal many think the Dutch will have the motivation to prove themselves this time around. The Dutch were runners up in the last World Cup in South Africa after losing a tough match against the defending champions Spain 1-0. The massive question that occurs amongst the Dutch squad is the capability of their defense since the majority of the defenders; none have more than 24 caps for the Netherlands.</p>
<p><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Arjen Robben holland.jpg" alt="" width="400" height="400" /> </p>
<p>The part to fear from the Netherlands is their midfield and attacking capabilities since the inclusion of Wesley Sneijder, Robben, de Jong, Huntelaar, and Robin van Persie most likely leading the forward line for Holland. A dismal display from Robben for Munich I Europe this campaign also with van Persie’s injury plagued Manchester United’s campaign. There will be many incentives motivating the Dutch this summer. The Oranje has been pitted in a group with the defending champions Spain. The Dutch would relish an opportunity for revenge in the first game of the group against Spain. The Clockwork Oranje does have to look over their shoulder with the likes of the high pressing Chile.</p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Huntelaar holland.jpg" alt="" width="380" height="500" /></p>
<p>The <a title="Argentina FIFA webpage" href="http://www.fifa.com/worldcup/teams/team=43922/" target="_blank">Albiceleste</a> (Argentina) many would also argue are a tournament favorite but although the squad boasts one of the best player in the world with Lionel Messi. Argentina has endured a rather dire and solemn era with la Pulga as the number ten. Many would of thought the Argentines would of won a World Cup or Copa America at this point but in fact they have fallen rather flat. The 2011 Copa America Argentina fell to the champions Uruguay at home, 1-1 losing in penalties 5-4. In the Copa America prior to 2011 Argentina fell again but that time to Brazil in the final 3-0. The previous World Cup in South Africa Argentina fell in the quarterfinals to Germany 4-0 which more than humbled the Argentines but also saw head coach Diego Maradona axed from his position as head coach.</p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Lionel Messi Argentina.jpg" alt="" width="390" height="500" /></p>
<p>After what has been a very dismal and unsuccessful club campaign this year, Lionel Messi will be looking to silence his critics by performing for his country. What entices fans most about Argentina is how they can accommodate their excess of attacking options. Messi will be representing Argentina up front, but also Sergio Aguero, Gonzalo Higuain, Ezequiel Lavezzi will join him and Rodrigo Palacio will join the Barcelona number ten as options for Alejandro Sabella to pick from. Angel di Maria will be an individual to observe too as a midfield or wing option for the Argentina boss. Especially since he had a rampant season for los Merengues this campaign winning both the Copa del Rey and the Champions League. The players to watch, the ones that the general football public would not know to much about will be the duo from Benfica Enzo Perez in the midfield and Ezequiel Garay in defense, also Marcos Rojo, the young 24 year old center back for Sporting Lisbon. Which with his strong presence, Sporting retained their position as top three in Portugal this campaign.</p>
<p><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Ezequiel Garay argentina.jpg" alt="" width="525" height="320" /> </p>
<p>Finally on to the dark horse which many have put their complete faith into, Belgium. The <a title="Belgium FIFA webpage" href="http://www.fifa.com/worldcup/teams/team=43935/" target="_blank">Rode Duivels </a>(red devils) have possibly the most expensive team on the club level with just two players’ net worth combined being 80 million Euros, Eden Hazard and Axel Witsel. Belgium qualified for the World Cup in a very one sided group, without a single lost in Europe Qualification in group A granted the likes of Croatia was sent to play in a playoff to qualify for the World Cup. Belgium will boast a strong goalie, in fact one of the strongest in the world with the young Thibault Courtois loaned to Atletico Madrid from Chelsea FC. The Belgian defense will also have the young Toby Alderweireld from Atletico Madrid, Thomas Vermaelen from Arsenal, Vincent Kompany from Manchester City, Jan Vertonghen from Tottenham Hotspurs, and the veteran Daniel Van Buyten from Bayern Munich will join the defensive roster for the Belgians.</p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Eden Hazard belgium.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="400" /></p>
<p>Belgian head coach Marc Wilmots will have some options in his midfield with the likes of Axel Witsel, Mousa Dembele, Kevin De Bryune, and the dismal Mouraine Fellaini. Wilmots attacking options are countless though with Romelu Lukaku, Eden Hazard, Kevin Mirallas and Dries Mertens. The players to really watch for Belgium are definitely Eden Hazard and Axel Witsel but also Dries Mertens has had an explosive season with Napoli. Mertens netted 11 goals for Partenopei (Napoli).</p>
<p><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Axel Witsel Belgium.jpg" alt="" width="540" height="320" /> </p>
<p>The dark horse teams are always fun to watch, they add a little drama and spice to the tournament. Instead of a tournament being about giants and minnows or David and Goliath. This World Cup will have a nice twist to it, which team is the most physical, tactical and most technical. What will prevail of the three qualities? Which tactics will all the sides come out with, possession football or counterattacking, defensive or high-pressure setups? June 12th cannot come any sooner.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Mertens Belgium.jpg" alt="" width="290" height="480" /> </p>
<p> </p>
Gio Franco
2014-06-05T03:45:00Z
Weighing the odds for the USMNT
Gio Franco
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Weighing-the-odds-for-the-USMNT/-56790859489365592.html
2014-06-02T20:09:00Z
2014-06-02T20:09:00Z
<p>Jurgen has selected his final 23-man roster for the trip to Brazil to represent team USA in the World Cup. Many have been ultra critical of Klinsmann's exclusion of now the leading goal scorer in Major League Soccer history Landon Donovan. The question perhaps was answered with Landon's current form and motivation since the start of this MLS campaign Donovan has endured a sluggish start. Finally Landon scored twice last in the Los Angeles Galaxy victory over the Philadelphia Union 4-1 and his lone goal tied the Chicago Fire 1-1. Perhaps Galaxy head coach Bruce Arena has to send Jurgen Klinsmann a thank you for motivating Landon to step up to a challenge. Unfortunately that performance came too late for him to make the 23-man squad.</p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/brad davis azerbaijan.jpg" alt="" width="465" height="290" /></p>
<p>More pressing issues lie ahead for team USA as they go into upcoming friendly game before this summer's tournament in Brazil. Also how will the US men's national team perform in their so-called group of death? The tournament has set the USA up against Ghana in the first round of the group stage. Following after will be Portugal in the second round and the Germans in the final round of the group stages. After Tuesday night's sluggish win against Azerbaijan courtesy from two goals off the bench from Mix Diskerud and Aron Johannsson. The dismal and slow display clearly depicted Jurgen' search for a starting eleven to play against Ghana in the first round of the group stage.</p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/jozyazerbaijan.jpg" alt="" width="450" height="325" /></p>
<p>Klinsmann will have one more match to play before he makes his final selection for the crucial game against Ghana. Brad Davis, Johannsson and Diskerud all have left a very positive mark to their credit books with the USA boss. Following Sunday afternoon's victory over a more credible Turkey courtesy of goal each by both Dempsey and Fabian Johnson. The first round match against Ghana will be a crucial game for the USMNT. Ghana will take on the United States and Germany will play Portugal. Depending on the outcome the Portuguese have against the Germans will dictate how the Os Navegadores come out against Jurgen's side.</p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Zusi azerbaijan.jpg" alt="" width="480" height="345" /></p>
<p>Interesting prospect for USA supporters will be the scoring capabilities with the likes of Aron Johannsson who led AZ Alkmaar in the Eredivisie with 16 goals. Under current form Johannsson looks like the strongest choice to lead the stars and stripes going forward in attack. Jozy Altidore has failed to replicate any kind of form or attacking prowess since his acquisition to Sunderland FC. Leading the midfield should fall to the shoulders of Michael Bradley since his return to MLS from Italy. Bradley has been easily able to manage any obstacles thrown at him so far. The problem for USA will be how their defense will be able to handle pressure. Pressure, which will definitely be coming from a more technical and talented Portugal and Germany in Group G.</p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Wondo azerbaijan.jpg" alt="" width="565" height="385" /></p>
<p>The group at first look does in fact look quite grim on paper, but even without Landon Donovan, Jurgen Klinsmann has the stars and stripes playing with something they have been lacking for many years, confidence. The first game will be crucial, as there will not be much time or opportunities to make up against Portugal in the second game or Germany in the final game of the group. With a win against Ghana will aide the US in their hopes to progress after the group stage. A win against Ghana will hopefully not only give USA the extra boost of confidence to take on both Portugal and Germany but will also set the tone for their tournament experience overall. The United States will have a obvious one in four chance to progress beyond the group phase. Even though the group favorites are evidently Germany and Portugal, but as two heavyweights fight over the top spot. The fight for the second position to progress can slip from one of the heavyweights into the hands of a worthy contender. </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
Gio Franco
2014-06-02T20:09:00Z
Portland Timbers 3-4 Vancouver Whitecaps from Providence Park
Mark Henty
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Portland-Timbers-3-4-Vancouver-Whitecaps-from-Providence-Park/-885990065366828803.html
2014-06-02T03:27:00Z
2014-06-02T03:27:00Z
<p><strong>MLS Game 14– Providence Park</strong></p>
<p><strong>06/01/2014: Sunny, 22C/72F</strong></p>
<p><strong>Attendance: 20,814</strong></p>
<p><strong>Pre-game records: Portland Timbers (W3-D7-L3) vs. Vancouver Whitecaps (W4-D5-L2)</strong></p>
<p><strong>Starting Line-ups: </strong></p>
<p><strong>Portland Timbers – </strong>GLK Donovan Ricketts, DEF Jack Jewsbury, DEF Rauwshan Mckenzie, DEF Pa Modou Kah, DEF Jorge Villafana, MID Will Johnson, MID Diego Chara, MID Diego Valeri, FWD Darlington Nagbe, FWD Steve Zakuani, FWD Maximiliano Urruti. <strong>Formation: 4-3-3.</strong></p>
<p><strong>Vancouver Whitecaps – </strong>GLK David Ousted, DEF Nigel Reo-Coker, DEF Jay DeMerit, DEF Andy O’Brien, DEF Jordan Harvey, MID Gershon Koffie, MID Matias Laba, MID Sebastian Fernandez, MID Pedro Morales, MID Kekuta Manneh, FWD Erik Hurtado. <strong>Formation: 4-2-3-1.</strong></p>
<p><strong>Preview:</strong></p>
<p>The past few weeks had seen a gradual turn around in the fortunes of the Portland Timbers who went into this match on a 6 game unbeaten run including 2 recent away wins at New York Red Bulls and Chivas USA. Coach Caleb Porter has made some intelligent signings in the past month or so bringing in experienced defenders in Rauwshan McKenzie and Danny O’Rourke as well as the exciting striker Fernando Adi, who already has a couple of goals to his name. The signings have increased competition for places in the Timbers line up and allowed Coach Porter to shuffle the pack and rest players during fixtures that have come in quick succession.<br /> <br /> Vancouver had also been on a decent run of results and were themselves unbeaten their last 5 games with draws against the Seattle Sounders, LA Galaxy, and Real Salt Lake and wins against Columbus Crew and the San Jose Earthquakes so they were not to be taken lightly at Providence Park in this ‘Cascadia Cup’ encounter which is always keenly contested.</p>
<p><br /> <strong>Match Highlights:</strong></p>
<p><strong>1<sup>st</sup> Half</strong></p>
<p><strong>3 mins: </strong>Portland rush out of the blocks once again and after Diego Chara picks up the ball deep in the Portland half, Diego Valeri finds <strong>Maximiliano Urruti</strong> on the counter attack and he sizes up a terrific shot from just outside the penalty box that curls nicely into the top corner of the goal for his 6<sup>th</sup> of the season. <strong>Portland Timbers 1-0 Vancouver Whitecaps.</strong></p>
<p><strong>16 & 26 mins: </strong>After a bright start from the Timbers including an Urruti header the hit the crossbar from a Valeri corner the San Jose Earthquakes are awarded 2 penalties in 10 minutes as the Timbers defense on both occasions make silly decisions to allow the away side opportunities to take the lead. First in the 16<sup>th</sup> minute Diego Chara brings down Erik Hurtado from behind and then in the 26<sup>th</sup> minute when Jorge Villafana fouls Sebastian Fernandez, both penalties were calmly put away by <strong>Pedro Morales</strong> to stun the home crowd and put the Vancouver Whitecaps into the lead. <strong>Portland Timbers 1-2 Vancouver Whitecaps.</strong></p>
<p>In the 31<sup>st</sup> minute as the Timbers press for an equalizer, Diego Valeri appears to be brought down in the penalty area but the referee waves play on. Caleb Porter is incensed and cannot believe the home sides luck as it did look to be a penalty at the time and on replays. Amazingly, the Portland Timbers have now conceded 8 penalties and not obtained a single one in the league this season.</p>
<p><strong>45 mins: </strong>An incredible half of soccer is not done just yet and there is still time for Vancouver to grab a third goal this time from a slick move culminating in a low cross from the right hand side and <strong>Erik Hurtado</strong> is there to slot the ball home and put the traveling side 3-1 up to stun the home crowd. <strong>Portland Timbers 1-3 Vancouver Whitecaps.</strong></p>
<p>Morales and Hurtado between them had 12 shots in the first half alone as the Whitecaps looked dangerous on many occasions on the break and exposed the Portland defense on multiple occasions. It was going to take an almighty effort for the Timbers to somehow comeback and get something out of this game and maintain their unbeaten home record.</p>
<p><strong>Half Time Score: Portland Timbers 1-3 Vancouver Whitecaps</strong></p>
<p><strong>Shots: POR 6-14 VAN</strong></p>
<p><strong>Shots On Target: POR 5-5 VAN</strong></p>
<p><strong>Corners: POR 3-1 VAN</strong></p>
<p><strong>Possession: Portland Timbers 54.7%-45.3% Vancouver Whitecaps</strong></p>
<p><strong>2<sup>nd</sup> Half:</strong></p>
<p><strong>50 mins: </strong>After some early pressure from the Timbers, it’s Vancouver who stun the home crowd again. Morales found himself in space on the right wing and he picked out a long cross-field pass to<strong> Jordan Harvey</strong> who finds the bottom corner from the edge of the box. The Portland defense once again to blame for a lack of pressure on the players on the ball. <strong>Portland Timbers 1-4 Vancouver Whitecaps.</strong></p>
<p>Caleb Porter made a tactical change and brought on Fernendo Adi in place of Steve Zakuani who had a poor game by his standards. The coach went with a 4-1-3-2 formation allowing Will Johnson license to go and join the attacks a little more with Nagbe and Valeri wide and Adi and Urruti both leading the line. A calculated risk by Porter who knew that the Timbers had to try to go for it to continue the 22 match unbeaten run.</p>
<p>With 68 minutes on the clock and Gaston Fernandez now on for Maximiliano Urruti as well, the Timbers were trying to find a way back into this match and Jack Jewsbury floated over a cross from the right hand side that found Diego Valeri who turned his defender and hit a low shot but it scraped the outside of the near post with Ousted beaten. This was followed by a half-volley from Adi and shot off target by Nagbe as the Timbers agonizingly went close on multiple occasions.</p>
<p><strong>77 mins: </strong>The pressure had to tell and with 13 minutes to go Diego Valeri whipped in a magnificent in swinging ball from the left touchline that seemed to be locked in to meet <strong>Gaston Fernandez</strong> head at the far post and he did not disappoint. Surely the comeback was not on was it? <strong>Portland Timbers 2-4 Vancouver Whitecaps.</strong></p>
<p><strong>86 mins: </strong>Who said that soccer was a boring sport? Fernando Adi with his back to goal chests the ball and then juggles it with his feet twice and lofts it over to an onrushing <strong>Will Johnson</strong> who lashes the ball home for what must be goal of the week or possibly the season. <strong>Portland Timbers 4-3 Vancouver Whitecaps.</strong></p>
<p>The final moments of this game was true blood and thunder as the Timbers desperately tried to get the equalizing goal but unfortunately for them, it just would not come.</p>
<p><strong>Summary:</strong></p>
<p>This was one of the most thrilling encounters I have had the privilege of witnessing. Sadly, for the Timbers, this was the end of their 22 match unbeaten run at home and they truly only had themselves to blame. Portland had an excellent start and fully deserved to be 1-0 when they began to make poor decisions at the back and allowed the Whitecaps to take the lead with 2 penalties. Morales and Hurtado terrorized the Portland defense, especially in the first half.<br /> <br /> Caleb Porter brought on 3 attacking options when chasing the game at 4-1 down and his side almost completed the comeback scoring two top quality goals through Fernandez and Johnson but it just was not enough and the unbeaten home streak came to an end. Vancouver did all their damage in the first hour or so and should be congratulated for their excellent counter attacking play and making the most of some questionable refereeing decisions.</p>
<p>For the Timbers, this is a setback and their defensive frailties are costing them big this season but this team has true heart and some fantastic quality going forward. If they can just sort out the problems at the back, the Timbers can really climb the league and ensure another spot in the playoffs. It was yet another exciting game at Providence Park with some top quality goals from both sides.</p>
<p><br /> <strong>Full Time Score: Portland Timbers (Urruti 3, Fernandez 77, Johnson 86) 3-4 Vancouver Whitecaps (Morales 16PK & 26PK, Erik Hurtado 45, Jordan Harvey 49)</strong></p>
<p><strong>Shots: POR 18-23 VAN </strong></p>
<p><strong>Shots On Target: POR 8-11 VAN</strong></p>
<p><strong>Possession: POR 55%-45% VAN</strong></p>
<p><strong>Corners: POR 8-4 VAN</strong></p>
<p> </p>
Mark Henty
2014-06-02T03:27:00Z
Brazil 2014: We Have Predictions!
Rafa Gonzales
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Brazil-2014:-We-Have-Predictions!/297312027459058278.html
2014-05-27T16:05:00Z
2014-05-27T16:05:00Z
<p>One of the great joys of any World Cup is that the closer you get to the tournament, the more your natural cynicism about FIFA and all those overpaid divas seems to evaporate. People old enough to know better suddenly start whistling the theme tune to Argentina '78 and recalling a special night in a bar during Italia '90. Fully grown adults sneakily buy Panini stickers and download a World Cup wallchart as the excitement mounts</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">If you've ever had such a wallchart yourself, you'll remember the game of Predict The Final. That's what we're going to do today, starting (just because...) with England, and seeing which teams are likely to meet on the road to the Maracana. Here we go...</span></p>
<p> </p>
<p><a href="http://www.sportsinteraction.com/downloads/world-cup-wallchart.pdf">England are drawn in Group D</a> with Uruguay, Costa Rica and Italy; potentially a pretty tough group, but it could have been worse. Much depends on whether they manage a point against the Azzurri – if that happens and they beat Costa Rica, the likelihood will be that they go through to the next round in second place. However, remember that <a href="http://www.costaricantimes.com/costa-ricas-four-soccer-players-to-watch-in-the-world-cup/28149">CR are a good side</a>; in qualification, they beat the USA and Mexico.</p>
<img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/WFD_Brazil_WC_Sponsor_02.png" alt="England and Brazil" width="400" />
<p> </p>
<p>Making it through in second place would see England facing the winners of Group C, which will be Colombia, Ivory Coast, Greece or Japan. Group C is a little tricky to pick a winner from, but Colombia look very strong, having qualified just behind Argentina. There's also a geographical advantage, and the bookies agree at the moment that Colombia should top the group with Ivory Coast second.</p>
<p>So we have England v Colombia playing in Rio on 28th June in the Round of 16! At this point even the most avid England supporter must admit the possibility that South American fervour (and football skills) will win the day, and we'll predict a victory for <a href="http://asia.eurosport.com/football/world-cup/2014/injured-falcao-included-in-colombia-s-30-man-squad_sto4247848/story.shtml">Los Cafeteros</a>.</p>
<img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/WFD_Brazil_WC_Sponsor_03.jpg" alt="Spain and the Netherlands" width="400" /><br />
<p>Now, consulting our wallchart, we have Colombia playing the winner of Match 49 – Group A's winner v Group B's runner-up. That's likely to be Brazil v Netherlands, though Spain might easily replace the Dutch. Either way, you'd have to go with Brazil for obvious reasons.</p>
<p>Now we have a quarter-final on our hands; Brazil v Colombia in Fortaleza on July 4th.</p>
<p>That's going to be one hell of a noisy crowd. The winners will play four days later in Belo Horizonte, against... now we have to look at the wallchart again. Let's say Nigeria beat France on June 30th. Germany beat Russia on the same day in Porto Alegre. So Nigeria face the Germans in Rio... and it's a draw! Penalties ensue, and of course Germany win.</p>
<p>There's our semi-final; Brazil v Germany. By an even more tortuous set of predictions based on our wallchart, the other semi is... Uruguay v Belgium! This requires a quite stunning performance by the Belgians against Argentina on 5th July in Brasilia, but just go with it for now.</p>
<img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/WFD_Brazil_WC_Sponsor_04.jpg" alt="Vidic" width="400" /><br />
<p>We have a final: Belgium have destroyed a tired Uruguay, and Brazil ride the wave of home support to reach the Maracana. Put all your money on it; Belgium to just nick it from a tired Brazil and lift the trophy on July 13th!</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p>(Images courtesy of foxnews.com, football365.com, zimbio.com, zimbio.com)</p>
Rafa Gonzales
2014-05-27T16:05:00Z
Boot Review: EvoPower Leather
Gio Franco
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Boot-Review:-EvoPower-Leather/808947296529979826.html
2014-05-22T23:20:00Z
2014-05-22T23:20:00Z
<p> </p>
<p>The first impression one had with these particular boots is its sleek blackout leather look. Many questions emerged from the public about this boot's capabilities and performance on the pitch, whether its grass or turf. They’re a many things to point out when it comes to this particular cleat from Puma. I personally play in the midfield, so there are certain aspects to the boot many search for comfort, first touch, strength and durability.</p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Puma-evoPOWER-Blackout-Leather.jpg" alt="" width="470" height="325" /></p>
<p>This boot in all surprised me, when it comes to being comfortable these have been the most comfortable I have worn so far. In fact I rarely recall a boot being so comfortable even when putting it on for the first time to wearing and playing in them for the first time. Perhaps back when predators had that classic red, black and white look to them. The leather make up of the boot definitely is a high attribute to the cleat; it almost feels like running on cushions at times. No matter what playing surface your on your feet will be comfortable. The only thing is your feet will get a little hot on turf fields but this issue will always occur when running full speed on an artificial field made of rubber. On all other fields made of grass, whether it’s a rough patchy field with inconsistent patches or a beautifully cut pitch. These boots will be pleasant on all fields at one's disposal.</p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Puma-evoPOWER-L.jpg" alt="" width="480" height="320" /></p>
<p>At points this is where the much-boasted gradual stability frame comes into play, literally. Many critics and Puma have talked highly of this gradual stability frame on the EvoPowers, aiding in the boots durability. The Gradual stability frame is actually one of the few noticeable traits many can feel even as they run on the pitch. The concept of the frame helps in the boots durability but also keeping one’s foot comfortable by always applying support to the player’s foot even when they run in stride.</p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/evoPOWER-Soleplate.jpg" alt="" width="450" height="300" /></p>
<p>The AccuFoam pads on the boot provide a beautifully clean surface for one to strike the ball. The strike feels more natural in ways of the flow with one’s sweeping leg and foot. The AccuFoam not only assists in the factor of striking the ball but also in ways of controlling the ball. Playing the midfield, one has to put a lot of emphasis of their game on their first touch. Retaining possession of the ball happens to be easy as long as one has the ball at their feet. The Accufoam pads act as a cushion when the ball is passed to one’s feet, even when the pass is harsh and kind of erratic the pads still do the job with retaining the ball.</p>
<p> </p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/EvoPower GSF.jpg" alt="" width="400" height="300" /></p>
<p>Many players look also for strength in the boot at vital spots, a multitude of attacking players search for boots that are reinforced on the sides of their feet near the ankle where one is to quickly cut turns. This is where the EverFit external cage comes into action, offering more stability to the middle of one’s foot. The added support to the inside of the foot helps a footballer in reassurance when they sharply cut on an opponent. When playing the beautiful game as much as possible a player puts wear and tear onto the cleats. There is a myriad of players that use the sides of their feet when they play football, but because of many boots today many claim to have their feet literally burst out of the sides of their boots. The EverFit external cage addresses this issue by adding extra protection and stability to the player’s midsection of the foot. </p>
<p> </p>
<p>These new boots by Puma offer a new arsenal of specialties to the footballer’s game. Defenders today look for strength mostly; midfield players search for ball retention and forwards want a nice striking surface. The EvoPowers are a smooth amalgamation of the best Puma has offered so far among their prior boots. Highly recommend these boots when primary concerns are in regards to comfort, striking and control. Nothing better too than the old school look of the all black shoe, its pure nostalgia when thinking about the old cleats from the early 2000s and 1990s. The blackout leather edition of these boots definitely a reminder of my first pair of cleats as a child. </p>
<p><br /><br /><br /><strong><em>Special thanks to both Michelle and Ariela from Puma for the opportunity to test these boots out! </em></strong></p>
Gio Franco
2014-05-22T23:20:00Z
This will be "their finest hour"
Gio Franco
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/This-will-be-their-finest-hour/253822376683639046.html
2014-05-19T17:38:00Z
2014-05-19T17:38:00Z
<p> </p>
<p>Time is vital today, in terms for the <a title="Manchester united homepage" href="http://www.manutd.com/" target="_blank">Red Devils</a> this summer their time is in fact limited from the end of this season to the 1st of September. After what will be a more than woeful campaign the Red Devils are looking to regroup to fight another day. The only difference between this campaign and the last was the obvious switch in managers and what could be arguably a minor reinforcement of the squad with the additions of Mouraine Fellaini and Juan Mata. Certain moments looked possibly bright for United with the development of Adnan Januzaj into the United first squad. The concern among the fans and the Red Devil board was their manager's capabilities in regards to tactics, player selection and substitutions.</p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/United rio olympiacos.jpg" alt="" width="465" height="340" /></p>
<p>The appointment of David Moyes after the announced retirement of the "greatest manager in British history" Sir Alex Ferguson has been a discussion from Moyes hiring to his sacking. At times it appeared that Moyes was able to get results in certain games, for example the display in Greece against Olympiacos and the second leg comeback in Old Trafford. Perhaps the second leg comeback should be more accredited to the performance of one Robin Van Persie, whose hat trick saw United progress to the next round. At this point though in fact that same comeback, many United fans probably saw the alarm bells blaring. When Robin Van Persie was allowed to play the full 90 minutes and was subbed off when he picked up a knee injury on the 90-minute mark. Which the Dutch striker has yet to return to play for the Red Devils with his concerns of playing in the World Cup this summer.</p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/RVP vs olympiacos.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="300" /></p>
<p>The contrary though Robin Van Persie’s injury against Olympiacos occurred in middle of March. So before David Moyes’ "Ides of March" what was the issue for the Red Devils leading up to that point? At one point and moment United "looked as if they were going to break back into the top four" after their dismal approach this season. Although that last statement has been said before about David Moyes when he was in charge of Everton Football Club. Throughout Moyes tenure at Goodison Park that very same statement or concept was echoing among the blue side of Liverpool. This occasion though these comments followed Moyes to United, comments that United supporters were not accustomed to hearing. In fact these comments are something that the supporters would of never heard under the Ferguson regime.</p>
<p><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/United Moyes disdain.jpg" alt="" width="500" height="298" /> </p>
<p>In the match leading up to the United comeback, before their horrid defeat against Olympiacos in Greece, United suffered another heart wrenching loss at the hands of their English rivals Liverpool. In Manchester the match before United traveled to Greece United entertained Liverpool. This match overshadowed the Red Devil's disheartening defense; which both Phil Jones and Rafael each conceded penalty for Steven Gerrard to convert from the spot. The somber sight could of been worst, in ways made things worst, as United's skipper was sent off for minimal contact with Sturridge, which lucky for the Red Devils, Gerrard missed his third penalty. Although the match ended in a 0-3 lost to the Red Devil's rivals Liverpool, some extra damage was evidently inflicted.</p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/liverpool 0-3.jpg" alt="" width="400" height="365" /></p>
<p>Many have described Manchester United as a team like the New York Yankees. In the sense of that when they are successful many claim they are the greatest in the world, if they show the opposite many speak about it as if it were an impending apocalypse. Reasonably so since the mid 90s Manchester United has enjoyed a very successful two decades. Which many of the hardened supporters would notice a growing number of fans joining their ranks, but many in which couldn't describe the club or name current players. The "Plastics" at one point United boasted to have one of the largest fan bases on twitter. After the lost to Liverpool at Old Trafford this year, according to Twitter, United lost almost a quarter of a million followers. Rather large clubs from England have once fallen from grace and lost a fair amount of its "plastic" supporters, look where they are today, Liverpool. In light to the loss of Twitter followers many of the Red Devil faithful actually welcome the lost of their "plastic" supporters.</p>
<p><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Liverpool united 0-3.jpg" alt="" width="440" height="410" /> </p>
<p>This summer will be quite crucial, with the most recent lost coming from Sunderland at Old Trafford, in fact Sunderland's first win at Old Trafford since 1968, basically sealing the deal that United need a Manager with winning accreditation. The man at the helm has finally changed and it will be Louis Van Gaal. Van Gaal does have a very extensive resume when it comes to success as a manager. Louis won the Eredivisie for Ajax from 1993 through 1996 also winning the Champion’s League for Ajax in 1995. Louis Van Gaal was also in charge of Barcelona for a period of time winning La Liga back to back from 1997-1999 as well as winning the Copa del Rey for the blaugrana in 1998. More recent accolades coming for the Dutch boss in the form of a Bundesliga and DFB Pokal victories with Bayern Munich in their 2009-2010 campaign.</p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Louis-van-Gaal UTD.jpg" alt="" width="350" height="300" /></p>
<p>There is a need for "summer clearance" at United, with Vidic due to leave with Giggs retiring taking on a supportive role to Louis Van Gaal. The United faithful are looking to "air out" the old fortress with a growing frustration being exhibited at the likes of Nani, Ashley Young, and Danny Welbeck. Which many reports state of the possibilities of all three moving on, as well a Vidic leaving for Italy, Giggs retiring and Anderson's departure to Fiorentina possibly being permanent. The axe has been wielded on David Moyes and now should be the time to cut out the excess of underperforming players from amongst the squad. Last year's champions of England have faltered stupendously; the new question currently looms amongst United supporters. In regards to the possibility of the “cavalry” coming over the hill to reinforce the stricken Manchester outfit, since the exodus of players might soon commence. </p>
<p> </p>
<p><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/United Rio last game.jpg" alt="" width="380" height="340" /></p>
Gio Franco
2014-05-19T17:38:00Z
If Carlsberg did Premier Leagues.........They wouldn't look like this one.
Oliver Wilson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/If-Carlsberg-did-Premier-Leagues.........They-wouldnt-look-like-this-one./-278466065247773501.html
2014-05-15T21:01:00Z
2014-05-15T21:01:00Z
The Premier League has ruined English football.<br /><br />Why else would Greg Dyke and his band of fickle followers have sat for the last few months, discussing how to save our national team from the unpleasant situation it finds itself in. Expectations are so low going into this year's World Cup that people now agree that Roy Hodgson's dropping Ashley Cole is the right thing to do, - I agree with the move myself but never expected the rest of the country to actually agree with me - and even some of the most stringent of Chelsea fans is scratching their head wondering why Frank Lampard IS making the trip to Brazil.<br /><br />The number of English players in the Premier League is dropping by the season, yet the League itself - along with it's sexism spouting leaders - is booming year after year.<br /><br />Yesterday, the league released its payment figures showing the public just how much each club has made from television revenue over the last 12-months. The facts make horrific reading.<br /><br />Each side, for participating in England's topflight this season, received a guaranteed £52.2m.<br /><br />That's than 13 of last season's Premier League teams took in total last season!!<br /><br />Cardiff City, this year, despite getting relegated, received a whopping £62m in total from the split TV revenue and their finishing position at the foot of the table, giving them £2m more than the Red Devils received for finishing 19 places above them the previous year. This year's failures are going down with more money in the bank than the title winners took away 12-months ago.<br /><br />Some will say that the Premier League has earned this money as a marketing brand, that this is system generated by us, because we are willing to pay the money to watch the Premier League from our sofas, our living rooms, or local pubs. <br /><br />But while the League dishes out almost £100m to it's top clubs (Arsenal, Manchester City, Chelsea and Liverpool all made in excess of £90m from the Premier League this season), we, the fans, continue pay more and more money to watch, be a part of, and enjoy the game.<br /><br />Ticket prices continue to rise, satellite and tv providers still charge the earth for their sport packages, new shirts (both home and away) are released every year - although credit to Arsenal for NOT changing their home shirt for two years, it's just a shame their season ticket prices are the highest in the country - meaning us, the fans, pay out around £60 for one item of clothing to wear to the games. <br /><br />Not only that, but we've had to watch as the Premier League's growth in money, value and television coverage has had a negative impact on England's national team and footballing growth. If the money is there, why can't we solve the problems with the English game's development.<br /><br />It's OUR game. We the fans fund it, we the fans watch it, we the fans devote our lives to it and we the fans should demand more from it. How many of us will see a benefit from this huge financial influx into the league? It may bring enough money to keep some of our favorite players at our clubs, or bring an extra star into the team, but will it lower those ticket prices, build a new astro-turf pitch in our town, give more people the opportunity to get their coaching qualifications and badges, or give more those with those qualifications money to do their job?<br /><br /><br />
Oliver Wilson
2014-05-15T21:01:00Z
Portland Timbers 1-1 LA Galaxy from Providence Park
Mark Henty
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Portland-Timbers-1-1-LA-Galaxy-from-Providence-Park/-173851978436422221.html
2014-05-11T20:52:00Z
2014-05-11T20:52:00Z
<p><strong>MLS Game 10– Providence Park</strong></p>
<p><strong>05/11/2014: Sunny, 18C/64F</strong></p>
<p><strong>Attendance: 20,814</strong></p>
<p><strong>Pre-game records: Portland Timbers (W1-D5-L3) vs. LA Galaxy (W2-D2-L2)</strong></p>
<p><strong>Starting Line-ups: </strong></p>
<p><strong>Portland Timbers – </strong>GLK Donovan Ricketts, DEF Jack Jewsbury, DEF Futty Danso, DEF Pa Modou Kah, DEF Michael Harrington, MID Will Johnson, MID Diego Chara, MID Diego Valeri, FWD Darlington Nagbe, MID Steve Zakuani, FWD Gaston Fernandez. <strong>Formation: 4-3-3.</strong></p>
<p><strong>LA Galaxy – </strong>GLK Jamie Penedo, DEF Dan Gargan, DEF Kofi Opare, DEF Leonardo, DEF A.J. DeLaGarza, MID Juninho, MID Landon Donovan, MID Baggio Husidic, MID Stefan Ishizaki, FWD Robbie Keane, FWD Rob Friend. <strong>Formation: 4-4-2.</strong></p>
<p><strong>Preview:</strong></p>
<p>A truly stunning Spring-time day greeted the LA Galaxy as they visited Providence Park on Mother’s Day and they must have thought they were actually in Los Angeles with blazing Sunshine and temperatures well into the 60s. The sun had finally shone on the Portland Timbers last week as they grabbed their first win of the season in a nail-biter against D.C. United thanks to a last minute goal by substitute Maximilliano Urruti at Providence Park lifting a big weight off the Timbers shoulders. The Timbers and their adoring fans were hoping that this would kick-start their season and start to see them climb the league. <br /> <br /> Portland had the better of the meetings last season with 2 victories (2-1 and 1-0) at home and a 0-0 draw in Los Angeles. The Galaxy had started this season indifferently with 2 wins, 2 draws, and 2 defeats the last of which coming against Real Salt Lake last week by a goal to nil. Bruce Arena felt that his team should have won that match saying “We just blew this game. There’s no excuses for us. We should’ve won this game, at very least get a point”. Both sides will feel that they should be doing better at this stage of the season with the squads that they have at their disposal although the Galaxy might argue that they are in a transitional process this season.</p>
<p>For the Portland Timbers, their line up remained unchanged from the side that got its first victory last week and Urruti and Alhassan remained on the bench as potential game changers.</p>
<p><br /> <strong>Match Highlights:</strong></p>
<p><strong>1<sup>st</sup> Half</strong></p>
<p>The opening 3 minutes saw the LA Galaxy start the brighter with a free kick half chance that was not cleared well by the Timbers and some neat interplay between Robbie Keane and Rob Friend that almost saw Keane through on goal but for some good defending by Kah and Danso. Then with only 5 minutes on the clock Michael Harrington went off with an injury that, if serious, will dent any slim hopes he has of making Jürgen Klinsmann’s 30 man US preliminary squad to be announced tomorrow. Alves Powell came on as a replacement as the Timbers were struggling to get a foot on the ball in the opening exchanges.</p>
<p>Portland soon began to get into the game and some lovely work by Jack Jewsbury almost set up an opener from the left hand side and from the resulting corner, Alves Powell floated in a tempting cross from the right hand side that Kah and Danso. The Timbers almost carved out another opportunity when Diego Valeri had the quick presence of mind to slide the ball up the left to Darlington Nagbe who slipped between two defenders and got to the by line but his cut back could not be met by the oncoming Gaston Fernandez. The game was beginning to open up for the home side halfway through the first half but they were still being very cautious and Landon Donovan was being given too much time on the ball in midfield winning free kicks in some promising positions.</p>
<p>On 29 minutes Rob Friend went very close after some neat interplay in midfield from the Galaxy and his fierce shot from 25 yards barely cleared the top of the crossbar as the Galaxy began to have the better of the play once again and look more like the home side with their high quality passing. Chara was beginning to get into the game and on 39 minutes he stole the ball beautifully on the edge of the 18 yard box as Landon Donovan was about to strike. One minute later, Robbie Keane had the first clear cut chance when Donovan put him through but his low angled shot was saved but Ricketts in the Timbers goal.</p>
<p>As the first half drew to a close, both teams will have settled for a 0-0 score line and hope that more clear chances were to come in the second half as legs tired.</p>
<p> <strong>Half Time Score: Portland Timbers 0-0 LA Galaxy </strong></p>
<p><strong>Shots: Portland Timbers 2-7 LA Galaxy</strong></p>
<p><strong>Corners: Portland Timbers 7-4 LA Galaxy</strong></p>
<p><strong>Possession: Portland Timbers 47.6%-52.4% LA Galaxy</strong></p>
<p><strong>2<sup>nd</sup> Half:</strong></p>
<p>After some early pressure from the LA Galaxy, Steve Zakuani squared the ball to Diego Valeri whose low shot was parried out by Jaime Penedo in the Galaxy goal and Darlington Nagbe’s thunderous follow up was well collected this time by the keeper as the game had a more open feel to it early in the 2<sup>nd</sup> half. On 59 minutes, a whipped in free kick by Diego Valeri found Futty Danso in plenty of space but his header slammed onto the far post with Penedo well beaten. Futty will have been very disappointed to have missed that opportunity.</p>
<p>On 70 minutes, some excellent play between Darlington Nagbe and Gaston Fernandez ends with a delightful ball slipped through for Zakuani who tumbles and there is a loud call for a penalty but the referee gives nothing as the Timbers look to open the scoring in an entertaining game to watch possession-wise but clear cut chances were few and far between. The Galaxy were also getting half chances and on 74 minutes Baggio Husidic’s shot from 8 yards was blocked out for a corner and then 2 minutes later, Juninho tried a curler from 25 yards off a corner and the ball fizzed past the far post. Not sure that Ricketts would have gotten to that one.</p>
<p>With 15 minutes left on the clock, Caleb Porter made a tactical change and brought on Maxi Urruti for Gaston Fernandez in the hope that his introduction would have the same impact as it did last week, scoring the winner. With 9 minutes to go, some nice work by Robbie Keane picked out Landon Donovan on the edge of the 18 yard box and his lot shot was neatly saved by Ricketts and then 1 minute later, Robbie Keane looked to lob one over Ricketts from 25 yards out by the big Portland keeper was able to tip the ball out for a corner kick.</p>
<p><strong>Goal 92 mins: </strong>From out of nothing, a long throw comes in from the right hand side and nobody from the Timbers defense goes to meet it, it bounces up off the turf and still no Timbers defender meets it and in rushes <strong>Robbie Keane</strong> to slot the ball home in a smash and grab scenario and there almost went the Timbers amazing home unbeaten record in a flash through careless defending. <strong>Portland Timbers 0-1 LA Galaxy.</strong></p>
<p><strong>Goal 94 mins: </strong>As if the Galaxy goal had woken up the Portland Timbers, they then proceeded to head onto the attack and after some brilliant hold up play in the penalty area by Will Johnson, his cute back heel flick finds <strong>Diego Valeri</strong> who hammers the ball past Peneda to tie it up and maintain the Timbers unbeaten home record! <strong>Portland Timbers 1-1 LA Galaxy.</strong></p>
<p><strong>Summary:</strong></p>
<p>Well, both teams will probably be happy with a point here. The LA Galaxy edged possession and often looked the more dangerous of the two sides as again at home, Portland found chances few and far between in a game that had a lot of intricate passing but little in the way of penetration. The game came to life in the last 3 minutes of injury time when first the Galaxy and then the Timbers scored to make for a thrilling finish, even if the rest of the game wasn’t all that exciting and more like a chess match. There are rumors going around that Portland may try to bring a certain Didier Drogba to the club and he is most certainly the kind of player that they need up front with real presence and the ability to dominate opposing defenders. The Timbers home unbeaten record remains intact but they will look to win next Saturday against Columbus Crew in their 3<sup>rd</sup> game in a row at home.</p>
<p><strong>Shots: Portland Timbers 10-21 LA Galaxy<br /><br />Corners: Portland Timbers 10-8 LA Galaxy</strong><br /><br /> <strong>Full Time Score: Portland Timbers (Valeri 94 mins) 1-1 LA Galaxy (Keane 92 mins)</strong></p>
<p> </p>
Mark Henty
2014-05-11T20:52:00Z
Portland Timbers 3-2 D.C. United from Providence Park
Mark Henty
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Portland-Timbers-3-2-D.C.-United-from-Providence-Park/404639602906750309.html
2014-05-04T04:42:00Z
2014-05-04T04:42:00Z
<p><strong>MLS Game 9– Providence Park</strong></p>
<p><strong>05/03/2014: Rain, 14C/57F</strong></p>
<p><strong>Attendance: 20,814</strong></p>
<p><strong>Pre-game records: Portland Timbers (W0-D5-L3) vs. D.C. United (W3-D2-L2)</strong></p>
<p><strong>Starting Line-ups: </strong></p>
<p><strong>Portland Timbers – </strong>GLK Donovan Ricketts, DEF Jack Jewsbury, DEF Futty Danso, DEF Pa Modou Kah, DEF Michael Harrington, MID Will Johnson, MID Diego Chara, MID Diego Valeri, FWD Darlington Nagbe, FWD Steve Zakuani, FWD Gaston Fernandez. <strong>Formation: 4-3-3.</strong></p>
<p><strong>D.C.United – </strong>GLK Bill Hamid, DEF Chris Korb, DEF Bobby Boswell, DEF Jeff Parke, DEF Cristian Fernandez, MID Nick DeLeon, MID Perry Kitchen, MID Davy Arnaud, MID Chris Rolfe, FWD Conor Doyle, FWD Fabian Espindola. <strong>Formation: 4-4-2.</strong></p>
<p><strong>Game 6 of the MLS season:</strong></p>
<p>After a beautiful spell of weather in the Rose City, the clouds rolled into Portland just in time to welcome D.C. United to Providence Park and the home side was looking to finally break their duck at home and grab a victory against a team coming off an excellent 4-1 home victory against FC Dallas last weekend. Goals from Bobby Boswell, Sean Franklin, and a brace from Fabian Espindola sealed an emphatic victory and left D.C. United unbeaten in their last five league games. Four of those games were indeed at home but they also grabbed an impressive away draw at the Columbus Crew one week earlier.</p>
<p>Portland were hoping it was to be 5<sup>th</sup> time lucky at home in the first of a string of 3 games at Providence Park against tricky opposition, the other 2 games being against the LA Galaxy and the side currently sitting in 2<sup>nd</sup> place in the Eastern Conference, Columbus Crew. The Timbers were indeed a little unlucky to come away with nothing from their away game against Real Salt Lake going down 1-0 but showing signs of improvement on the road and those signs improved further when they grabbed a point at Houston last weekend through a Gaston Fernandez goal and enjoying some decent possession, especially in the first half.</p>
<p><br /> <strong>Match Highlights:</strong></p>
<p><strong>1<sup>st</sup> Half</strong></p>
<p><strong>Goal 1 min: </strong>With a mere 37 seconds on the clock <strong>Gaston Fernandez </strong>latches on to an excellent drilled cross from the right hand by Diego Valeri after Darlington Nagbe won the ball by the half way line. Gaston’s first attempt is blocked but he acrobatically hooks the rebound into the net for an amazing start for the Timbers! <strong>Portland Timbers 1-0 D.C. United.</strong></p>
<p>In the 6<sup>th</sup> minute, D.C. United almost equalize after Perry Kitchen heads the ball straight from a corner onto the crossbar and Davy Arnuad’s follow up header is straight at Ricketts. Timbers survive some early pressure after their opening goal. Just 2 minutes later, Diego Valeri breaks down the right hand side and delivers another low cut-back cross that is met by Gaston Fernandez once again but this time he scuffs the shot wide to the left of the goal and it rolls out for a goal kick.</p>
<p><strong>Goal 21 mins: Davy Arnaud </strong>takes a speculative shot from around 30 yards out and it takes a wicked deflection from the on-charging defender and loops over Donovan Ricketts into the net. <strong>Portland Timbers 1-1 D.C. United.</strong></p>
<p>After the goal from D.C., the Timbers had started throwing numbers forward and on 32 minutes Darlington Nagbe slipped through a lovely pass for Jack Jewsbury to latch onto who found himself at a tight angle and his only choice was to hit the ball right at Bill Hamid who saves well. It was obvious that the Portland Timbers were determined to try to get another goal before half-time.</p>
<p><strong>Goal 37 mins: </strong>Diego Valeri whips in a corner from the right hand side and none other than <strong>Futty Danso</strong> meets the ball at the bounce and it slides directly into the right hand corner of the goal on the wet surface. The Timbers regain a deserved lead! <strong>Portland Timbers 2-1 D.C. United.</strong></p>
<p>After some late pressure from D.C. United, the Portland Timbers held on to take a 2-1 lead into half-time. This was a much better performance in the first half than we had seen in most of the Timbers home games and Valeri, Nagbe, and Fernandez were looking lively.</p>
<p><strong>Half Time Score: Portland Timbers (Gaston Fernandez 1, Futty Danso 37) 0-0 D.C. United (Davy Arnaud 21) </strong></p>
<p><strong>Shots: Portland Timbers 9-9 D.C.United</strong></p>
<p><strong>Possession: Portland Timbers 49%-51% D.C.United</strong></p>
<p><strong>2<sup>nd</sup> Half:</strong></p>
<p>The worry for the Timbers as has been the case time and time again at home this season would be that the away team would just be allowed to come onto them and equalize and the early exchanges saw the Timbers actually look for the 3<sup>rd</sup> goal and not be afraid to go forward with some quality passing that looked to penetrate the D.C. defense.</p>
<p>After a promising initial first 10 minutes or so for the Portland Timbers, the game began to get a little scrappy and there was no real pattern to it but on 62 minutes Steve Zakuani decided to take the ball inside from the left wing and aim the ball into the bottom corner, but it was met brilliantly by D.C. keeper Bill Hamid who tipped the ball around the post.</p>
<p>In the 68<sup>th</sup> minute some magnificent work from Darlington Nagbee saw him skip past 2 defenders and the goalkeeper but he just could not find the back of the net, instead the side netting as Will Johnson was left agonizingly hoping for the ball to be squared. Darlington did amazingly enough to do all that he did and could be excused for not spotting Johnson in the center to be honest.</p>
<p><strong>Goal 78 mins: </strong>From truly out of nowhere D.C.United swing in an in swinger and Futty fails to pick up Cristian<strong> </strong>puts enough pressure on him to force <strong>Futty Danso</strong> to head the ball into his own net for an own goal to square things up. The game honestly looked like it was petering out to a fairly easy victory for the Timbers but for the 7<sup>th</sup> time out of 15 goals, it was a cross or corner that undid the home side. <strong>Portland Timbers 2-2 D.C.United.</strong></p>
<p>Caleb Porter wanted this victory and it was plain to see as he brought on Maximilliano Urruti for Jack Jewsbury in an attacking move with around 10 minutes to go for broke and with only 5 minutes to go Diego Valeri lays the ball off to Darlington Nagbe who turns and finds Gaston Fernandez….the ball is bobbling and it appears to find the top of his boot and he scoops the ball up and over the cross bar. A golden opportunity to find the winner missed and the score remains 2-2.</p>
<p><strong>Goal 93 mins: </strong>The Timbers are all pushing forward for a final corner and the ball comes out to the only Timbers player outside the penalty area who is Diego Chara and he slips the ball out wide to Diego Valeri who grabs a yard on the defender and finds Urruti who’s first attempt hits the post and it rebounds back out straight to him and this time he finds the net!!! <strong>Portland Timbers 3-2 D.C. United</strong></p>
<p><strong>Summary:</strong></p>
<p>This was the most commanding performance at home that we have seen from the Portland Timbers and they dominated long periods of this game and it looked as though through true resilience shown by the D.C. United side who remember had been unbeaten in 5 matches, the away side were somehow going to be able to force a draw from this game, but the last gasp winner from substitute Maximilliano Urruti ensured that the Portland Timbers secured their first win of the season, and it was richly deserved. Next up for the Timbers, LA Galaxy at Providence Park in 8 days’ time.</p>
<p><br /> <strong>Full Time Score: Portland Timbers (Gaston Fernandez 1, Futty Danso 37, Maximilliano Urruti 93) 3-2 D.C. United (Davy Arnaud 21, Futty Danso OG 78)</strong></p>
<p> </p>
Mark Henty
2014-05-04T04:42:00Z
First Impressions: EvoPower blackout leather
Gio Franco
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/First-Impressions:-EvoPower-blackout-leather/-717645170264752454.html
2014-04-23T23:03:00Z
2014-04-23T23:03:00Z
<p> There here, finally, I have finally got my hands on new boots and they are none other than the new <a title="EvoPower webpage" href="http://www.puma.com/footballclub/global/en/bootlab/evopower" target="_blank">Puma EvoPower</a> boots. This will be my first impression write up; I have only played in these boots twice now. So far the boot has impressed me a lot just by the look of it. The good people of <a title="Puma homepage" href="http://www.puma.com/football" target="_blank">Puma</a> have been buzzing about these new cleats and what they can offer the player on the field.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>When looking at these boots for the first time, they appear to be an amalgamation of the Puma cleats today. The combination of the <a title="EvoSpeeds webpage" href="http://www.puma.com/football/products/evospeed-12-fg" target="_blank">EvoSpeeds</a>, <a title="Puma Powercats webpage" href="http://www.puma.com/football/products/powercat-1-fg" target="_blank">Powercats</a>, and the <a title="Puma Kings webpage" href="http://www.puma.com/football/products/king-fg" target="_blank">Puma Kings</a> some claim. When unboxing the boot for the first time my first impression was "humbling" with all the black as opposed to the new "flashy" boots of today. There is nothing wrong with "flashy" boots but something different is a nice thing when you look for variety in the cleat market today.</p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/EvoPower Accufoam.jpg" alt="" width="515" height="300" /></p>
<p>This boot boasts a handful of interesting attributes and qualities that should give the modern footballer the edge they desire. Forwards of today always brag about one thing in their shoe and that is the strike surface to their boot. The Puma EvoPowers boast the use of Accufoam inserts which are supposed to provide a smooth striking surface. The Accufoam inserts are in fact somewhat noticeable on the bright orange boot. The blackout leather edition on the other hand the only way of noticing the Accufoam inserts is by looking close up. The EvoPower’s also treasure a particular feature, the Gradual Stability Frame, which is boasts a capability of being super flexible.</p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/EvoPower external cage.jpg" alt="" width="365" height="300" /></p>
<p>On to the important attribute (well important for me since I have a tendency to rip my cleats at this exact spot every time) the EverFit External Cage. The Everfit External Cage is alleged to add stability in the middle of the foot, which should help with all aspects to the game and one's performance on the field. Finally on to the AdaptLite one-way stretchable upper, which is supposed to allow maximum flexibility to one's foot when striking the ball.</p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/EvoPower GSF.jpg" alt="" width="400" height="400" /></p>
<p>In the upcoming week I will be putting these boots to the test, playing in as many games as one possibly can. In order to best describe the feeling of the boot when it comes to the boots level of comfort, first touch, striking capability and strength overall. Stay in touch to catch my field test review soon!</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Special Thanks to Michelle and Ariela of Puma for the opportunity to try these bad boys out. </p>
<p><br /><br /><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/EvoPower ending.jpg" alt="" width="450" height="450" /><br /><br /></p>
Gio Franco
2014-04-23T23:03:00Z
" R E S P E C T"
Gio Franco
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/-R-E-S-P-E-C-T/-765845455048426253.html
2014-04-22T19:03:00Z
2014-04-22T19:03:00Z
<p>Errors can cost dearly, especially errors at home, <a title="Chivas USA homepage" href="http://www.cdchivasusa.com/" target="_blank">Chivas USA</a> Saturday evening took on the smooth firing <a title="Seattle Sounders homepage" href="http://www.soundersfc.com/" target="_blank">Seattle Sounders</a> at home in Carson California. In what appeared to be a pragmatic lineup by Chivas USA head coach Wilmer Cabrera decided to play a five man midfield in order to best clog the Seattle attack. Seattle manager Sigi Schmid went with a more traditional lineup with Dempsey paired with Martins up top. A tactical battle for both possession and opportunities ensued from the first half to the second.</p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/CHVvSEA torres.jpg" alt="" width="500" height="300" /></p>
<p>The first half started with a fascinating mistake from Oswaldo Alonso in the fourth minute, after making a strong tackle to intercept a through ball sent in for Barrera. The tackle although pushed the ball slightly forward for Barrera to run onto. Oswaldo made a second tackle, but instead of winning the ball this time around Ossie caught Leandro Barrera in the box and referee Ismail Elfath was quick to point to the spot. Erick Torres stepped up to the penalty and easily dispatched it past Stefan Frei. The match after the goal displayed some intrigue, one mistake led to the goal for the Goats and another error led to Seattle equalizing.</p>
<p><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/CHVvSEA Dempsey.jpg" alt="" width="450" height="300" /> </p>
<p> The sounders won a free kick in the attacking half in the 24th minute of the game. Pineda whipped in a wonderful cross only to be met by Bobby Burling who sent his header soaring into the air and Chivas USA keeper Dan Kennedy approached for a easy save. Kennedy when touching the ball spilled the ball back into the chaotic box where Clint Dempsey lashed a shot into the chaos. The ball deflected off of Chad Marshall and in front of Lamar Neagle who was quick to put the ball into the empty net. The remaining of the first half became a midfield battle which the goats enjoyed a fair share of opportunities.</p>
<p><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/CHVvSEA Rosales.jpg" alt="" width="470" height="300" /> </p>
<p>The second half would reconvene and also would boil over for Chivas in the 73rd minute. Chivas USA midfielder Marco Delgado was shown red for a slight challenge on Pineda, which can be arguably a yellow card. Seattle Sounders who tested Kennedy and got their winning goal in the 81st minute would soon exploit the red card. A quick play between Martins and Dempsey where Martins played a quick pass to Clint. Martins then ran into space where the Seattle number two again found Obafemi Martins in the box and Martins chipped his shot over Kennedy for the winning goal.</p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/CHVvSEA martins v boca.jpg" alt="" width="465" height="300" /></p>
<p>In the post game press conference Chivas USA head coach was livid with officiating on the night particularly with their "display of respect towards Chivas USA.” Coach Cabrera was quick to point out the fact that in most 50-50 contentions his side encountered against the Sounders, referee Ismail Elfath “would give the Sounders the benefit.” When looking at the statistics it is a little conspicuous when Chivas USA are accounted for 26 fouls during the match and Seattle just seven. The fact for this mach is simple though; Chivas was only able to score once opposed to Seattle's two goals. In contrary to what Wilmer Cabrera stated Chivas USA were indeed awarded a penalty in the early stages of the match.</p>
<p><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/CHVvSEA rosales 2.jpg" alt="" width="455" height="300" /> </p>
<p>Coach Wilmer Cabrera was also quick to point out his side's future with the very noticeable obstacles that they need to overcome. The main word Cabrera used was to describe the obstacle the Goats need to overcome is "respect the respect given to them on the field.”</p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/CHVvSEA cabrera.jpg" alt="" width="470" height="300" /></p>
<p>Attendance 7,499</p>
<p><strong><em>Photographs accredited to Angelica Orozco</em></strong></p>
Gio Franco
2014-04-22T19:03:00Z
Field Testing the Mitre Delta V12 Professional Match Ball
Rafa Gonzales
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Field-Testing-the-Mitre-Delta-V12-Professional-Match-Ball/696741996279441253.html
2014-04-16T00:14:00Z
2014-04-16T00:14:00Z
We here at World Football Daily were recently sent the Mitre Delta V12 and Delta V12 Fluo Profession Match Ball to use and test out. It's not like we need much of an excuse to kick a ball around, especially when it is a top quality premium match ball like this. So we took it to the pitch to see just how good this ball really was.<br /><br /><img style="float: right; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/mitre-delta-v12-football-league-match-ball.jpg" alt="" width="301" height="212" />Before we get into the actual field test and the overall opinion of those kicking this ball around, let's go over some of the general "Tech Specs" on this ball. When you go to Mitre.com to research this ball, the first thing that stands out is the bold claim that this ball is the "most advanced FIFA Approved quality match ball ever made". Right off the bat, we had high expectations for this ball.<br /><br />The Delta V12 is a 12 panel Professional football used in the English Football Leagues, the Scottish Premier Football League, and the Capital One Cup. According to Mitre, the football was developed with professional players in mind, relating to the quality of touch, speed of play, and vision during play. The Delta V12 and the "Hi-Vis" brother the Fluo, are recommended for use on natural grass pitches. A Soft-feel, textured grain PU surface offers excellent aerodynamic stability. Basically, the ball is capable of keeping stable, even at 70 mph.<br /><br />Now that we got that out of the way, let's go in to what we use to judge a premium match ball. <br /><ol>
<li>Touch and Feel of the ball</li>
<li>What you see when you play</li>
<li>Actual playability</li>
</ol> <iframe src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/R5dO50DbEas" frameborder="0" height="315" width="560"></iframe>
<p><strong>Touch and Feel</strong></p>
<p><img style="float: left; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/65405.jpg" alt="" width="320" height="320" />One of the coolest things about this ball is the actual feel of it. Most professional match balls these days have a very synthetic feel to them and because I'm not that old (almost 30), I grew up playing with either rubbery or plastic feeling balls that were not of much quality. So when I first touched this ball, I was really impressed with the fact that it literally felt like leather. </p>
<p>At the same time, the leather feel made me wonder a bit because I was was worried that the leather would hold water or moisture in general, but after testing this ball in both dry and wet environments, I can definitely say that this balls stay consistent with its touch and feel, no matter the weather you are playing through. </p>
<p>The leather feel sticks to your feet in a very organic fashion and it doesn't feel like it has to make up for the synthetic cover with padding underneath. It took no time at all to get used to this ball.</p>
<p><strong>What You See</strong></p>
<p>This is something that really impressed me as well. I've been lucky enough to be sent to various research and development conferences with many top sporting good manufacturers and those who build balls always point to the design or graphics on the ball as something that they work on to help the player see the ball better. </p>
<p>When you play with the Delta V12 during the day, it is incredible how much you see while the ball is in motion. Regardless of whether it is in the air or on the ground, the player will be able to pick up the spin and movement immediately. Now, I'm no professional footballer, but the graphics on this ball literally made me a better player simply because I could pick up its movement that much faster.</p>
<p>If you've paid for the top balls from Adidas or Nike, I would highly suggest that you look at this ball in comparison and be prepared to be amazed.</p>
<p><strong>Playability</strong></p>
<p>Flat out, this ball is fun to play with. The Mitre Delta V12 feels like a real football, not a plastic basketball or a synthetic super ball or whatever. The ball has a true roll and true touch. Because you can see the ball better and because of the general touch and feel of the ball, you actually learn with this ball as you play with it which is something I've always appreciated with a ball that I am spending more money on in comparison to the balls you get at your local sporting goods shop.</p>
<p>When you kick this ball, whether you're striking it on goal, taking a set piece or corner, or blasting it out of the back, you understand what you're doing. What I mean by that is, you know how and where you hit the ball and you understand the resulting reaction.</p>
<p>All around, this ball is an amazing purchase if you're buying it. If you're lucky enough to play with this ball in competition, you'll be pleasantly pleased with it. You won't be able to blame the ball for any reason and in general, playing with the Delta V12 is an incredibly enjoyable experience.</p>
<p><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/football-league-matchball-mitre-general_3118300.jpg" alt="" /></p>
Rafa Gonzales
2014-04-16T00:14:00Z
Galaxy grinds the gears against Vancouver
Gio Franco
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Galaxy-grinds-the-gears-against-Vancouver/-858851653990640486.html
2014-04-13T23:22:00Z
2014-04-13T23:22:00Z
<p>Grinding the gears, there's absolutely nothing worst than driving down the road hearing your car's RPMs kick up and she instead slows down instead of speeding up. Saturday night the <a title="Los Angeles Galaxy homepage" href="http://www.lagalaxy.com/" target="_blank">Los Angeles Galaxy</a> experienced a little more stress in their match against the <a title="Vancouver Whitecaps homepage" href="http://www.whitecapsfc.com/" target="_blank">Vancouver Whitecaps</a> than last weeks LA derby encounter. In a match whom the Galaxy really needed to win in order to extend the winning run to two games. In the league none can stress the importance of winning home games most than we here at World Football Daily.</p>
<p><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/team photo LAGvVAN.jpg" alt="" width="500" height="375" /> </p>
<p>The first half exhibited the alacrity and typical slow start to the Los Angeles Galaxy's play. Dominating possession in the first half the Galaxy found it still rather difficult to challenge David Ousted's goal. Only recording one shot on goal out eight total shots. Opposed to Vancouver who instead preferred to press high up the field putting fast paced pressure on the Galaxy's back four. The forward pairing of Mattocks and Manneh by Whitecaps coach Carl Robinson almost paid off on certain moments in the opening half. Pressure from Mattocks in one instance forced a terrible back pass from Leonardo and left Penedo scrambling to boot it clear. The issue for the Los Angeles Galaxy this week appeared to be in their initial passing. Last week's display against <a title="Chivas USA homepage" href="http://www.cdchivasusa.com/" target="_blank">Chivas USA</a>, the Galaxy showed their capacity of creating cutting passes quite astutely. This time around the passing overall throughout the first half lacked immensely.</p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/AJ LAGvVAN.jpg" alt="" width="450" height="300" /></p>
<p>The Galaxy did not look entirely lost in the first half to the contrary of what the statistics stated. The Galaxy was in fact patient when it came to their build up going forward. The main obstacle was coming from random weight on passes or lack of passing. The fruit of their labor would come to forward for the Los Angeles Galaxy though after the restart.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>At the start of the second half it did not take long for the Galaxy to make something of their build up. The Galaxy's new signing Stefan Ishizaki whipped in a beautiful cross from the right side of the Whitecap's penalty box in the 47th minute. Meeting the cross was none other than the Los Angeles number seven Robbie Keane on the volley to make it 1-0 in favor of Los Angeles. Much of the match began to fade after the goal, the best opportunity for Vancouver came in the 77th minute when Kenny Miller got to Mezquida's corner on the near post forcing a save from Penedo.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The Galaxy in fact could have had two more goals in the dying moments of the game. Robert Friend had a chance in both the 82nd minute and in the 88th minute. Friend was able to run onto a one-touch pass by Robbie Keane to take on Ousted one on one, but Robert scuffed his shot wide of the far post. In the 88th minute the Canadian giant was able to get up to a Keane cross into the box but Robert sends his effort again wide of the post. The Galaxy on a third attempt could have extended their lead further. Robbie Keane in the dying moments of the match took down a brilliant header from Rob Friend. Keane sped into the Vancouver box beating DeMerit and attempting a cheeky chip, but the chip went over the bar.</p>
<p> </p>
<p> The Los Angeles Galaxy won their second league game this year in rather dull fashion. The main take away from this match up was the three points for the Los Angeles Galaxy. The questions still rise of the Galaxy's capability of containing themselves when they take on a team that will press them high up the pitch. Sloppy passing could have afforded the Galaxy in this encounter but didn't, the Galaxy need to tighten up their passing from all ends of the field from the attacking role to the defense. The Los Angeles Galaxy will travel to Vancouver next Saturday with hopes of trying to acquire a result in Canada to keep their MLS campaign rolling right. </p>
<p><br /><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Post game celebration LAGvVAN.jpg" alt="" width="450" height="310" /><br /><br />20,847 attendance </p>
Gio Franco
2014-04-13T23:22:00Z
Portland Timbers 1-1 Chivas USA from Providence Park
Mark Henty
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Portland-Timbers-1-1-Chivas-USA-from-Providence-Park/47384394435254547.html
2014-04-13T04:36:00Z
2014-04-13T04:36:00Z
<p><strong>MLS Game 6– Providence Park</strong></p>
<p><strong>04/12/2014: Clear and mild, 16C/61F</strong></p>
<p><strong>Attendance: 21,152</strong></p>
<p><strong>Pre-game records: Portland Timbers (W0-D3-L2) vs. Chivas USA (W1-D2-L2)</strong></p>
<p><strong>Starting Line-ups: </strong></p>
<p><strong>Portland Timbers – </strong>GLK Donovan Ricketts, DEF Alvas Powell, DEF Futty Danso, DEF Pa Modou Kah, DEF Michael Harrington, MID Will Johnson, MID Diego Chara, MID Diego Valeri, MID Darlington Nagbe, MID Kalif Alhassan, FWD Maximiliano Urruti. <strong>Formation: 4-2-3-1.</strong></p>
<p><strong>Chivas USA – </strong>GLK Dan Kennedy, DEF Eric Avila, DEF Eriq Zavaleta, DEF Carlos Bocanegra, DEF Andrew Jean-Baptiste, MID Mauro Rosales, MID Augustin Pelletieri, MID Carlos Alvarez, MID Thomas McNamara, FWD Leandro Barrera, FWD Erick Torres. <strong>Formation: 4-4-1-1.</strong></p>
<p><strong>Game 6 of the MLS season:</strong></p>
<p>A beautiful springtime evening greeted the loyal fans here at Providence Park as the Portland Timbers faced Chivas USA in their 4<sup>th</sup> home game of the season, the Timbers still looking for their first home victory of the season and they started out heavy favorites in this contest as Chivas USA had not won since their opening game of the season against the Chicago Fire at the StubHub Center.<br /> <br /> The Timbers may not have won at home this season, but they also remained unbeaten at Providence Park and after throwing away a 2 goal advantage last week to Seattle who came back to draw 4-4 in a thrilling encounter, the Timbers and their fans will have felt that it was high time to get 3 home points on the board against a Chivas side not fancied by many to make the play-offs this season. Chivas last result was a 3-0 thumping by the LA Galaxy at Chivas which will not have pleased Coach Wilmer Cabrera.<br /> <br /> Kalif Alhassan was excellent in the game against Seattle and his pace and wide play brought a new dimension to the Timbers attack so he kept his place over Gaston Fernandez and Futty Danso came in at the heart of the defense for Nolberto Paparatto who has looked a little shaky throughout the early games this season. Alvas Powell also kept his place over the experienced Jack Jewsbury as Coach Caleb Porter opted for youth at right back.</p>
<p><br /> <strong>Match Highlights:</strong></p>
<p><strong>1<sup>st</sup> Half</strong></p>
<p>The Timbers made a bright start and it was clear from the outset that the plan was to get the ball to Alhassan as often as possible to terrorize former Timber Andrew Jean-Baptiste. Alhassan easily broke past Jean-Baptiste on the right wing and his cross was met by a diving Dan Kennedy whose fist away took the ball off the foot of Diego Valeri.</p>
<p><strong>Goal 8 mins: </strong>With Chivas down a man due to what looked like a change of boots for Carlos Bocanegra, the Timbers took advantage of a defensive error and Diego Valeri found Darlington Nagbe who then slipped in <strong>Will Johnson. </strong>Johnson calmly slotted the ball into the bottom left hand corner from just inside the penalty area. <strong>Portland Timbers 1-0 Chivas USA.</strong></p>
<p>Not many chances were had in the first 20 minutes and Futty Danso was doing a good job of man marking the dangerous Erick Torres and there was no doubt that the Timbers looked more secure at the back than in recent games as Caleb Porter looked to get things right at the back and stop the goal leakages of recent games. <br /> <br /> In the 25<sup>th</sup> minute after some decent possession for Chivas USA, Darlington Nagbe slipped in Maximilliano Urruti who faked a pass to Valeri and turned and shot from just outside the penalty area and Dan Kennedy dove down to his right to tip the ball around the far post. A fine effort by Urruti. Ten minutes later and after some good hold up play by Alhassan, the ball broke loose to Diego Valeri who put Will Johnson in again and his powerful shot just grazed that near sided frame of the goal as he looked to do what Diego Chara did last week and bag a brace.</p>
<p>Just before the stroke of half-time, Chivas USA forced a corner after a slight mistake by Will Johnson and from the corner Avila hit one from outside the box that was deflected on its way toward goal but Donovan Ricketts saw it all the way, even with some severe spin on the ball.<br /> <br /> It was a pretty scrappy first half with clear cut chances few and far between but the home side will have been happy with their first half performance as Danso and Kah looked solid at the back. Chivas had plenty of possession but rarely looked threatening and their set pieces lacked real penetration and were dealt with quite easily by the Timbers defense. Will Johnson’s excellent early strike was the difference between the two sides as Portland actually scored first in a home game for the first time this season.</p>
<p><strong>Half Time Score: Portland Timbers (Johnson 8) 1-0 Chivas USA </strong></p>
<p><strong>2<sup>nd</sup> Half:</strong></p>
<p>The 2<sup>nd</sup> half continued in a similar vein to the first as it was rather scrappy and although Chivas had slightly more possession, the Timbers back line dealt with everything that came at them. Portland almost played like the away side in the first 15 minutes as they looked to counter Chivas on the break and get the all-important second goal that would give them the cushion they need. Chivas almost slipped in Erick Torres on 57 minutes but Kah made a crucial defensive tackle to see off the danger.</p>
<p>As the game approached the 70 minute mark and the Chivas continued to try to press, it was clear that the Timbers were playing it cautiously and were looking to grind out a home win in a scrappy fashion. The game was very disjointed at this time and much of the game was being fought out in the midfield third with few chances being created.<br /> With 15 minutes to go, Chivas USA almost equalized when a whipped in free kick was not dealt with by the Timbers back line and Carlos Bocanegra was unable to steer the ball home in a crowded penalty area after some poor attempts to clear by the Timbers defense. Portland were clearly nervous and looking to hang on to the victory and not commit too many forward.</p>
<p><strong>Goal 79 mins: </strong>Chivas USA found a way through the Timbers defense when former Timber Jean-Baptiste found Leandro Barrera on the left wing and he slid a low cross in for <strong>Erick Torres </strong>to pounce upon and slot it past Donovan Ricketts. The goal was on the cards and Portland were now paying for lacking attacking creativity in the second half. <strong>Portland Timbers 1-1 Chivas USA.</strong></p>
<p>In injury time, the Timbers pushed for the winner and gained a free kick just outside the penalty area. Will Johnson stepped up and the ball took a slight deflection off the wall and smashed onto the near post. So close to a huge winner that would have kicked off the season for the Portland Timbers. The game remained a tight affair as the Timbers tried to get a late winner but as in their first 2 home games, they were unable to penetrate the Chivas defense with any real creativity and the game finished at 1 goal apiece.</p>
<p><strong>Full Time Score: Portland Timbers 1-1 Chivas USA</strong></p>
<p><strong>Summary:</strong></p>
<p>It looked as though the Portland Timbers were going to carry on where they left off last week with some excellent attacking play in the first 20 minutes but once they got the first goal, their attacking mindset seemed to dissipate as the team looked more concerned with keeping the 1-0 lead instead of going at Chivas for the second goal and that allowed the away side to try to go at the Timbers and they finally got their deserved goal with 10 minutes to go. Another frustrating night for the Timbers Army with the 4th home draw in a row at Providence Park. 4 points from 6 games will not please Timbers Coach Caleb Porter.</p>
<strong>Final Score: Portland Timbers (Johnson 8) 1-1 Chivas USA (Torres 79)</strong>
<p> </p>
Mark Henty
2014-04-13T04:36:00Z
LA Derby victory puts the Galaxy into Gear
Gio Franco
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/LA-Derby-victory-puts-the-Galaxy-into-Gear/824288478064734579.html
2014-04-10T22:50:00Z
2014-04-10T22:50:00Z
<p>The <a title="Los Angeles Galaxy homepage" href="http://www.lagalaxy.com/" target="_blank">Los Angeles Galaxy, </a>only two games into the regular season look to kick-start their MLS campaign with a win against their local rivals <a title="Chivas USA homepage" href="http://www.cdchivasusa.com/" target="_blank">Chivas USA</a>. The Los Angeles Galaxy has had their opening home game dashed by<a title="Real Salt Lake homepage" href="http://www.realsaltlake.com/" target="_blank"> Real Salt Lake</a> with a 0-1 lost and scrounged a point with a 1-1 draw against Salt Lake in Utah. The Galaxy will come to rely on their midfield in the upcoming matches. Bruce Arena last sunday chose to start Dan Gargan as right back and Brian Perk in goal. In the game against Chivas USA two players from the midfield would open their scoring accounts for the Los Angeles Galaxy.</p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Jean-Baptiste CHVvLAG.jpg" alt="" width="500" height="340" /></p>
<p>The first half could not of turned out perfectly for the Galaxy as they dominated possession early and created opportunities. The Galaxy got on the score sheet just a little after 37 minutes after Ishizaki sent in a cross to Dan Gargan at the right post. Gargan brilliantly headed the ball across goal for Robbie Keane to smash it home despite Kennedy's best efforts. The LA Galaxy did not stop there either in the 42nd minute Juninho found Ishizaki bursting into the Chivas USA box. Stefan on his second touch quickly dispatched his shot into the back of the net to extend the Galaxy's lead to two going into halftime.</p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Keane CHVvLAG.jpg" alt="" width="495" height="345" /></p>
<p>LA manager Bruce Arena knew as well did his Chivas USA counterpart that if the Galaxy can get a third goal before Chivas can score, they will put the game out of reach. The Galaxy's third decisive goal came in the 56th minute with a beautifully built counterattack. The Galaxy's passing cut through the Chivas USA defense, like a warm knife through butter, clearing enough space for Baggio Husidic to net his first Galaxy goal. The important third goal slowed the game down significantly for the Goats; in fact their first effort on the Los Angeles goal was in the 82nd minute. Chivas USA didn't in fact have much going forward for them until after the 80th minute. Chivas USA head coach Wilmer Cabrera stated in the post game press conference "this is our worst performance." Wilmer Cabrera was also adamant on his side being able to get back to work the next week to recover from this set back.</p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Ishizaki CHVvLAG.jpg" alt="" width="475" height="345" /></p>
<p>The Los Angeles Galaxy have won their first game in the MLS this campaign and reluctantly it was against their hometown rivals Chivas USA. The Galaxy will be facing off against the Vancouver Whitecaps Saturday evening in Carson California. The Whitecaps will be looking to recover from their lost to the Colorado Rapids in week five, losing 2-1 in Colorado. The Los Angeles Galaxy will need to capitalize on their opportunities when they host Vancouver, especially if they hope to come out of the game with all three points.</p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Juninho CHVvLAG.jpg" alt="" width="475" height="300" /></p>
<p>The Los Angeles Galaxy appear to have found an identity to their play especially after their home lost to Real Salt Lake. The fact that the LA Galaxy also were knocked out of the Champions League (CONCACAF) by the other team in California, Baja California, Club Tijuana. A strong home display against the Xoloitzcuintles gave the Galaxy their first win in the overall campaign 1-0 in the first leg. The second leg in Tijuana was where the Galaxy had their worst first half display yet. But the Galaxy in the second half of that leg began to show real character scoring twice but still losing 4-2 in the second leg and dropping out of the tournament 4-3 in aggregate.</p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Rosales CHVvLAG.jpg" alt="" width="440" height="350" /></p>
<p>The game last Sunday in Carson the Galaxy played with that same character and drive that they had in that second half in Tijuana. The upcoming season for the LA Galaxy should be a very enticing one. It is in fact really early in the season, but a strong start can help when it comes to qualifying for the MLS Cup in the end of the season. </p>
<p><br /><em><strong>Photography credit to Angelica Orozco</strong></em></p>
Gio Franco
2014-04-10T22:50:00Z
Portland Timbers 4-4 Seattle Sounders from Providence Park
Mark Henty
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Portland-Timbers-4-4-Seattle-Sounders-from-Providence-Park/-861711071909707452.html
2014-04-05T21:32:00Z
2014-04-05T21:32:00Z
<p><strong>MLS Game 5– Providence Park</strong></p>
<p><strong>04/05/2014: Drizzle, 11C/52F</strong></p>
<p><strong>Attendance: 20,168</strong></p>
<p><strong>Portland Timbers (W0-D2-L2) vs. Seattle Sounders (W2-D0-L2)</strong></p>
<p><strong>Starting Line-ups: </strong></p>
<p><strong>Portland Timbers – </strong>GLK Andrew Weber, DEF Alvas Powell, DEF Norberto Paparatto, DEF Pa Modou Kah, DEF Michael Harrington, MID Will Johnson, MID Diego Chara, MID Diego Valeri, MID Darlington Nagbe, MID Kalif Alhassan, FWD Maximiliano Urruti. <strong>Formation: 4-3-3.</strong></p>
<p><strong>Seattle Sounders – </strong>GLK Stefan Frei, DEF DeAndre Yedlin, DEF Jalil Anibaba, DEF Chad Marshall, DEF Leonardo Gonzalez, MID Osvaldo Alonso, MID Michael Azira, MID Gonzalo Pineda, FWD Kenny Cooper, FWD Clint Dempsey, FWD Obafemi Martins. <strong>Formation 4-3-3.</strong></p>
<p><strong>Game 5 of the MLS season:</strong></p>
<p>This is the game in the season that most soccer fans in the pacific NW look forward between the Portland Timbers and their derby rivals the Seattle Sounders. Neither side has made a blistering start to the season with Seattle sitting on 6 points from 2 wins and 2 defeats and Portland underperforming on 2 points with 2 draws and 2 loses from their opening 4 games. The Timbers will have hoped to have garnished more points from their opening two home games against Philadelphia Union and the Chicago Fire as they came from behind to snatch a draw in both encounters and they will have been disappointed with the two losses on the road since.<br /> <br /> Seattle have had an indifferent start to the season themselves with wins against Champions Kansas City and Montreal Impact but losses at home against the much improved Toronto FC and Columbus Crew will not have pleased coach Sigi Schmid. Still very early on into the season, both teams were looking to take the points, especially in a heated derby game such as this where Pacific NW pride is at stake and of course points in the Cascadia Cup.</p>
<p>Both teams went with a 4-3-3 formation and for the Timbers, Jack Jewsbury and Gaston Fernandez were placed on the bench with Alvas Powell and Kalif Alhassan in to replace them. The Timbers have lacked real width on their opening home games and bringing in Alhassan would hope to provide good pace and crosses from the wing. Seattle did not surprise with their team selection playing Kenny Cooper, the pacey Obafemi Martins, and Clint Dempsey in a 3 pronged attack. It looked like both teams were setup to go for the win and go toe to toe with the same formations.</p>
<p><br /> <strong>Match Highlights:</strong></p>
<p><strong>1<sup>st</sup> Half</strong></p>
<p><strong>Goal 3 mins: </strong>With only 2:15 minutes on the clock the Sounders were ahead through Kenny Cooper from a corner that was driven past the far post and there was Jalil Anibaba to drive the ball back across goal and none other than former Timber <strong>Kenny Cooper</strong> couldn’t miss from a yard out. The perfect start for the away side but yet again for the third time at home this season, the Timbers would have to come from behind to get something from this game<strong>. Portland Timbers 0-1 Seattle Sounders.</strong><br /> <br /> <strong>Goal 9 mins: </strong>Gonzalo Pineda got caught in possession by the hustling <strong>Diego Chara</strong> and he drives toward goal and hits the ball low and although Frei got a hand to it, it’s too good and goes into the bottom right hand corner. Game on! <strong>Portland Timbers 1-1 Seattle Sounders.</strong></p>
<p>In the 12<sup>th</sup> minute Darlington Nagbe found himself in space on the left hand side and skillfully drives the ball from the edge of the area and hits the near post with Frei beaten. The Timbers have suddenly come alive.</p>
<p><strong>Goal 14<sup> </sup>mins: </strong>We are still not out of the first 15 minutes and this time Michael Harrington drives into the Seattle penalty area and reaches the by line, he then sends a simple low cross straight to <strong>Diego Valeri </strong>who gets a truly skillful touch and hits it in off the bar from the edge of the 6 yard box with 3 players around him. This derby was now on fire and this took the roof off the stadium. <strong>Portland Timbers 2-1 Seattle Sounders.<br /> <br /> Goal 24 mins: </strong>Yet another goal in this amazing first half and this time it was Norberto Paparatto who’s headed clearance was knocked back to Osvaldo Alonso who played in <strong>Clint Dempsey</strong> who calmly slotted it home into the bottom right corner of the goal from 12 yards. <strong>Portland Timbers 2-2 Seattle Sounders.<br /> <br /> </strong>The first half was breathless and the Timbers were far more direct than in their previous home games, thanks in part to the introduction of Kalif Alhassan into the first XI. Both sides were playing some excellent, creative football and Martins and Dempsey often looked dangerous going forward for the Sounders. Will Johnson and Gonzalo Pineda were brewing their own personal battle and both were booked in the first half. Watching them off the ball, you could see the fire rising between them and it was sad to see play acting by Pineda when Johnson fouled him in order to get Johnson booked and then sprang but up onto his feet once the card was shown but it seems that this unsavoriness is just a part of the game that will be hard to eradicate.<br /> <br /> Chad Marshall almost scored in the 39<sup>th</sup> minute after a high, looping cross was delivered from deep on the right hand side that the Timbers defense really should have dealt with and Marshall got his head to it and forced a fine one-handed save from Andrew Weber. Neither team was really in control, this was a battle between two teams that really wanted to win this game and it was hard to see how they could keep this energy level throughout the second half too. Quite the spectacle for the paying public.</p>
<p><strong>Half Time Score: Portland Timbers (Chara 9, Valeri 14) 2-2 (Cooper 3, Dempsey 24) Seattle Sounders</strong></p>
<p>Shots: Portland Timbers 8 (3)- (4) 9 Seattle Sounders</p>
<p>Possession: Portland Timbers 48.2%-51.8% Seattle Sounders</p>
<p>Corners: Portland Timbers 2-2 Seattle Sounders</p>
<p><strong>2<sup>nd</sup> Half:</strong></p>
<p>Within 5 minutes of the 2<sup>nd</sup> half starting, it looked like Seattle would get another when a corner was not dealt with at all by the Timbers defense (not for the first time) and Jalil Anibaba almost fired the ball home but for a deflection in a crowded 6 yard box. The Sounders definitely started the 2<sup>nd</sup> half the brighter of the two. But just a minute later, Will Johnson’s excellent cross field pass found Michael Harrington who skipped the ball first time past DeAndre Yedlin but the ball just never settled for him and he screwed his shot wide.</p>
<p><strong>Goal 56 mins: </strong>None other than <strong>Diego Chara</strong> found himself in plenty of space centrally once again as the Seattle defenders backed off and he hit it from 25 yards right into the top corner! This strike was even better than his first! <strong>Portland Timbers 3-2 Seattle Sounders.</strong></p>
<p><strong>Goal 57 mins: </strong>Just 1 minute after Chara scored his second goal. <strong>Maximiliano Urruti</strong> decided to get in on the action and spun his defender Yedlin beautifully to put himself in on goal and he curled a delightful shot to the left of the oncoming Stefan Frei to make it 4-2!! Two skillfully crafted goals in the space of 90 seconds. <strong>Portland Timbers 4-2 Seattle Sounders.</strong></p>
<p>In the 65<sup>th</sup> minute Diego Valeri put in an out-swinging cross that Norberto Paparatto climbed to reached and is header had Frei well beaten but unfortunately not the crossbar which the ball hit and then bounced right onto the goal line and out. So nearly 5-2 to Portland. They were continuing to press and really had Seattle on the ropes looking for the knockout punch.</p>
<p>Into the 71<sup>st</sup> minute and some fabulous interchange play by Diego Valeri and Kalif Alhassan sees Valeri dribble the ball along the edge of the penalty area and it sits up nicely for Urruti but his thunderous shot is blocked by the lunging bodies of the Seattle defense who by now were being run ragged. This was a very direct and different Portland Timbers that we were seeing today and Darlington Nagbe almost scored a minute later after some fantastic interplay with Will Johnson and Michael Harrington. Chances were coming thick and fast for the Timbers and the Sounders looked in trouble as the waves of attacks just kept coming at them.<br /> <br /> 78 minutes on the clock and a rare chance for the Sounders in the 2<sup>nd</sup> half as Clint Dempsey delivers a teasing cross for Obafemi Martins who, from 6 yards out, put his free header over the crossbar. Had that gone in we would have been in for one hectic final 10 minutes or so.<br /> <br /> <strong>Goal 86 mins: </strong>The last 10 minutes or so saw the Timbers take their foot off the gas and allow Seattle to go on the offensive and the introduction of Lamar Neagle really helped to make Seattle look dangerous in the final third and some chances were beginning to come their way and it was Neagle’s neat cross that was flicked on by Martins and <strong>Clint Dempsey</strong> made no mistake to make it 4-3. Portland Timbers 4-3 Seattle Sounders.</p>
<p><strong>Goal 87 mins: </strong>An incredible match! Portland had this game in the bag with 10 minutes to go but the introduction on Neagle put them on the back foot and Portland substitute Ben Zemanski brought down DeAndre Yedlin who was looking to latch onto a ball past the last defender and the referee pointed to the spot. <strong>Clint Dempsey</strong> calmly slotted the ball low and to the keeper’s right and claimed his hat-trick. What an incredible game! <strong>Portland Timbers 4-4 Seattle Sounders.<br /> <br /> </strong></p>
<p><strong>Full Time Score: Portland Timbers 4-4 Seattle Sounders</strong></p>
<p><strong>Summary:</strong></p>
<p>The first half was exactly what a derby should be. Frantic, exciting, with quality goals, and with plenty of fire in the bellies of the two sets of players. The Timbers were far more direct than in earlier home games and Alhassan was causing plenty of problems out wide. Michael Harrington was also providing excellent width as Portland looked a far better outfit than either of their previous two home outings. The Sounders had an excellent first half too and the Dempsey, Martins combinations were causing plenty of problems for the Timbers defenders who did not look too comfortable when they got the ball anywhere around the final third. <br /> <br /> The 2<sup>nd</sup> half? Well, it had just as much drama as the first. Seattle started the brighter of the two but the Timbers knocked the stuffing out of them with two high quality goals within 90 seconds of each other. It looked like Portland were then in control and hit the bar too and could have been 5-2 up. Then with 10 minutes to go, Portland seemed to take the foot off the gas and go on cruise control allowing Seattle the chance to go forward and with the introduction of Lamar Neagle, they created more opening in the final 10 minutes than in the prior 35 and scored an excellent crafted goal through Clint Dempsey and the penalty that completed his hat-trick and the draw for the Seattle Sounders.</p>
<p>It may not be the result that the home crowd wanted, but it was a truly memorable game of football that everyone will remember for a long, long time. You don’t see many games with that intensity, passion, and indeed, skill. This was a magnificent advertisement for the MLS.</p>
<p>Shots: Portland Timbers (11) 19-22 (13) Seattle Sounders</p>
<p>Corners: Portland Timbers (4) 6-5 (3) Seattle Sounders</p>
<p>Possession: Portland Timbers 49.4%-50.6% Seattle Sounders</p>
<p><strong>Final Score: Portland Timbers (Chara 9, 56, Valeri 14, Urruti 57) 4-4 Seattle Sounders (Cooper 3, Dempsey 24, 86, 87pen)</strong><br /> <br /></p>
<p> </p>
Mark Henty
2014-04-05T21:32:00Z
Enigmatic English title enthralls
Gio Franco
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Enigmatic-English-title-enthralls/37229338891196641.html
2014-04-05T20:10:00Z
2014-04-05T20:10:00Z
<p>Every year in the Barclays Premier League the football viewing public is graced with some form of football drama for the title. Last year at this time United were walking away with the title, waving to competitors with confidence. The year before, City and United took the drama to the last day to the very last second and kick of the final game. The year City won the title was one of the most entertaining and emotional occasions in the English Premier League. This current season has the same capacity to enthrall and entertain the football viewing public today as it did two years ago. In fact to an extent this campaign can be one of the most entertaining in the last decade.</p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Luis Saurez.jpg" alt="" width="400" height="325" /></p>
<p> <a title="Liverpool FC homepage" href="http://www.liverpoolfc.com/welcome-to-liverpool-fc" target="_blank">Liverpool</a>, the Brendan Rogers experiment has more than impressed this campaign making a push for the English title. The current form that Liverpool has found are in must be accredited to their manager Brendan Rogers and they’re number nine Luis Saurez. Out of all the forwards in the world the Uruguayan has to be top of the list of all the strikers. Many pundits would argue today that Luis Saurez is the ultimate number nine today. In fact Luis has the most goals in the English Premier League so far with 29 goals. The man behind him is also another Liverpool player, Daniel Sturridge, with a total of 20 goals, both Luis Saurez and Daniel Sturridge have combined for a total of 49 goals in the Barclays Premier League. Under the current form both Sturridge and Saurez are exhibiting its safe to say they will combine for over 50 goals this season. The total number of goals scored for Liverpool this campaign is at 88, with the SAS combining for over 50% of the Reds goals this year. Will Liverpool hit 100 goals this campaign with it the domestic title?</p>
<p><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Philippe-Coutinho-011.jpg" alt="" width="400" height="285" /> </p>
<p>On the other side of the country in Manchester, the blue moon has fallen out of the FA cup and Champions League. The citizen's demise from Europe and the FA Cup could serve as a blessing to <a title="Manchester City homepage" href="http://www.mcfc.com/" target="_blank">Manchester City</a> and to those who watch the English Premier League. Currently in third place in the league with two games in hand to still play to catch up with the rest of the league. City can usurp first from Liverpool by just winning their two games in hand which can add to a total 76 points to Liverpool's 71. Manchester City who have just won the newly dubbed Capital One Cup this season and are definitely not satisfied with just that piece of silverware. Since City was eliminated from Europe by Barcelona, and the FA Cup by what seems to be their kryptonite, Wigan Athletic. Manchester City will more than likely be zeroing in on the league trophy, since their quest for the quadruple has sputtered into a journey for a minor domestic double.</p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Silva v arsenal.jpg" alt="" width="450" height="250" /></p>
<p>Finally back to London, to the blue side of the city, <a title="Chelsea FC homepage" href="http://www.chelseafc.com/" target="_blank">Chelsea</a> at the start of the New Year enjoyed sitting top of the dog pile. At the start of the new year Chelsea seemed to be in firm command of the title from the get go. As time progressed and as teams fixtures began to pile on, fatigue and frustration begins to set in. In regards to Chelsea who currently sit first even after shock defeats to both Aston Villa and Crystal Palace the blues are looking to remedy their situation quick in England. The upcoming weeks left in the Barclay's Premier League will be vital to the blues. Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho should be diligent to have his squad recover from their current stumble since they are also still competing in the Champions League. Even though they lost 3-1 to the Parisian giants, the score line can easily be overturned. Remember the year Chelsea won the Champions League they needed a turn around against Napoli who won 3-1 in Naples and Chelsea won 4-1 in London. Mourinho isn't a stranger to competing on two fronts; he has won multiple trophies with teams before, the treble with Inter Milan and doubles with Chelsea and Porto.</p>
<p><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Salah.jpg" alt="" width="470" height="250" /> </p>
<p>Now to the red side of London, <a title="Arsenal FC homepage" href="http://www.arsenal.com/home" target="_blank">Arsenal</a> have taken a beating recently after a humiliating display against Chelsea a few weeks back 6-0. Arsene Wenger's side has found it difficult to pick themselves back up after that lost, and after drawing to visiting Swansea City. Another tough match against Manchester City yielded another draw for the Gunners. Arsenal currently sits in fourth in the league in the last crucial space for a spot in the UEFA Champions League. The Gunners are aloft from the top spot currently by seven points. Wenger's side appears to be reorganized and reset, which the Arsenal faithful will hope that their side can push for the league this year. Many of the Gunners' supporters would also hope they can make a push for the FA Cup this year since they are in the semifinal match up against Wigan. </p>
<p><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/flamini.jpg" alt="" width="356" height="286" /> </p>
<p>The English Premier League again is one of the most entertaining leagues in the world (yes we at World Football Daily agree, well at least I do). Contrast to last year where United were running away with the title to give as a parting gift to the best manager in British history (Sir Alex Ferguson). This campaign has the potential to give the football public the same thrills and spills that occurred two years ago when City took the title with the last kick of the game. This time though the competitors for the title are definitely between three contenders possibly four depending on how Arsenal do on the road against Everton this coming Sunday. The upcoming fixtures are tough on the top three as Liverpool host Manchester City on the 13th of April and Liverpool again entertains Chelsea on the 27th of April. Again this is under the grounds that all three teams get all three points in their other remaining six games of the league. Remember the Citizens do have two more games in hand as well, instead of six games they have eight, one of those eight is against Liverpool. This campaign may come down to the last game and to the very last kick again to settle who will come up on top of the heap. </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
Gio Franco
2014-04-05T20:10:00Z
Spain's reinvigorated title race
Gio Franco
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Spains-reinvigorated-title-race/716068966985206595.html
2014-03-26T05:00:00Z
2014-03-26T05:00:00Z
<p>Finally in Spain we have an entertaining denouement beginning to unfold before our football eyes. Sunday's duo match up of <a title="Real Betis homepage" href="http://www.realbetisbalompie.es/es/" target="_blank">Real Betis</a> vs <a title="Atletico Madrid" href="http://en.clubatleticodemadrid.com/" target="_blank">Atletico Madrid</a> and <a title="Real Madrid homepage" href="http://www.realmadrid.com/en" target="_blank">Real Madrid</a> vs <a title="Barcelona homepage" href="http://www.fcbarcelona.com/" target="_blank">Barcelona</a> has placed all three hands onto the La Liga title. Atletico Madrid knew leaving Andalusia with a win would project them into first place of Spain. Simeone's men also knew that if Barcelona came out of el Classico with a win, Atleti would sit atop of the totem pole. In the capital of Madrid the Catalan giants knew that a win here would also put them back into the title race.</p>
<p><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Atleti v betis raul v juanfran.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="300" /> </p>
<p>Los Colchoneros traveled to Andalusia to take on Real Betis in the afternoon game in Seville. Real Betis was entertaining Atletico Madrid, Betis needed to refocus their efforts immediately on the league since their exit from the Europa League on Thursday. Real Betis who are in last place in the league had to put on an effective display to save their La Liga hopes. Diego Simeone's men were ready for any onslaught sent their way, in what was a very physical display. The first half was ferocious with the Red and Whites having a very difficult time against Betis. Two opportunities fell to Diego Costa in the opening ten minutes along with chances to JuanFran and Juan Carlos for Betis, but none were converted.</p>
<p><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/filipe luis.jpg" alt="" width="350" height="350" /> </p>
<p>The second half began with quick drama as Juan Carlos struck the Atletico Madrid post in the 48th minute. The game unraveled for Betis in the 56th minute when Braian Rodriguez picked up his second yellow card for an obvious handball. The offense for the handball was justified when looking at the slow motion and at a different angle, as Braian Rodriguez handles the ball in a method of a point guard in the NBA. Barely three minutes after the sending off for Betis the wheels would soon fall of the tracks for Betis. In the 58th minute Gabi drilled a shot into the keepers left post to make it 1-0 to the visitors. The deficit would mount up larger in the 64th minute when a cross into the Betis penalty area was poorly cleared. Koke was able to get a little flick with his head for the ball to fall into the path of the trailing Diego Costa to make it 2-0 to Atleti.</p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Betus v Atleti costa celebrates.jpg" alt="" width="400" height="270" /></p>
<p> The match ended in a 2-0 win to the Rojiblancos and depending on the result of El Classico they climbed to first place. After the match the next move was in the hands of Carlo Ancelotti and Tata Martino. El Classico this year not only means do or die for Real Madrid or Barcelona but affects a third team in the race for the La Liga title. A win for Real Madrid meant the title was in the hands of the Merengues. A draw gave the edge merely to Real Madrid, but a lost would place Atletico Madrid in first and Barcelona trailing the two Madrid outfits by a lone point.</p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/koke.jpg" alt="" width="500" height="300" /></p>
<p>Stating that this year's El Classico was a high-octane affair would be a massive understatement. The hype behind games at times usually tends to subsidize quick or never live to what the hype built up. El Classico this year was the exact opposite; for once the hype not only sold the game but also did so with pessimistic anticipation. The prestige of the name "El Classico" serves itself, but the seven-goal thriller in Madrid served up a journalist smorgasbord of topics. Here at World Football Daily we will do our utmost best to serve you a portion of that feast.</p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/benzema header.jpg" alt="" width="400" height="220" /></p>
<p>The early stages of the match can be described simply as "box to box” play from both sides. The football public was awarded early in the sixth minute of the game. Messi coasted a beautiful pass to Andres Iniesta who was bombing down the left flank and the Spaniard lashed his shot into the back of the net 0-1. Six minutes after the goal in the 12th minute Real Madrid should of equalized through Karim Benzema. Angel Di Maria made a fantastic run to the Barcelona byline teeing up Karim Benzema, but Karim sent his shot flying over the bar. Madrid would even the score line in the 20th minute, Di Maria looped a wonderful cross in for Benzema to rocket a header past Valdez, 1-1.</p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/barca 2nd fabs v pepe.jpg" alt="" width="500" height="300" /></p>
<p>Los Merengues would soon take the lead through a link up play again by Di Maria and Benzema. Four minutes after the tying goal from the Frenchman, Di Maria whipped another cross into the box and it found Karim Benzema. After taking a touch, the ball was placed in the air enough for Karim to volley a shot into the back of the net to make it 2-1 to the hosts. Benzema could of scored four times inside 26 minutes. Another attempt from the French number nine in the 26th minute was cleared off the line by Gerard Pique. The Blaugrana would equalize three minutes from the break. A quick play between Neymar and Lionel Messi inside the Madrid box led to the Messi's first goal of the night and tied the match at 2-2. In the celebration of the second goal for the Catalans, Cesc Fabregas and Pepe were caught in a tussle amongst themselves. Contact between the two saw them both on the Santiago Bernabeau grass and in the referee's book for playacting right before halftime.</p>
<p><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/bale v jorda.jpg" alt="" width="450" height="350" /> </p>
<p>Once the break was over El Classico immediately picked up where they left off. The best effort after the restart came to the former Lyon striker in the 52nd minute, Benzema and Bale linked up for Karim to fire his shot at Valdez. Real would soon, after that miss would take the lead again. Dani Alves who brought down the Portuguese winger met Cristiano Ronaldo’s drive into the Barcelona box. The referee pointed to the penalty spot and Cristiano stepped up to the spot and buried his shot to make it 3-2 to Los Blancos. The wheels would fall off for Real Madrid in the 63rd minute of El Classico. Neymar was played in behind the Real Madrid defense and Sergio Ramos was judged to have brought the young Brazilian down inside the box. Sergio Ramos was the last man in that particular challenge so the referee didn't hesitate to show Ramos the red card and pointed to the exit.</p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/ramos sending off.jpg" alt="" width="470" height="350" /></p>
<p>The man to take the penalty was none other than la Pulga himself. The Argentinean machine smacked the ball into the top right hand corner of the net and it was level again, 3-3. Immediately after the goal Carlo Ancelotti made a tactical change, which he was forced to bring off Benzema for Varane to slot into the empty spot in the center defense. The game came to a final head in the 82nd minute when tackles from both Xabi Alonso and Daniel Carvahal brought down Iniesta in the box for another penalty to Barcelona. Messi would also take Barcelona's second penalty and again he buried his penalty and the game swung back in favor of the Catalans, 4-3. At the full time whistle the Blaugrana emerged victorious from El Classico with a 4-3 win in Madrid.</p>
<p><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/iniesta shot.jpg" alt="" width="325" height="300" /> </p>
<p>The result from both games this weekend has definitely sculpted a rather entertaining ending to the La Liga season this campaign. As opposed to last season at this time the title race was a run away by Barcelona. Today the difference between the top three is a mere point. Barcelona sits in third place with 69 points, behind both Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid by one point. Barcelona still have a Catalan derby to play in come saturday the 29th of March, a tough match against Villarreal at the el Madrigal they have to entertain both Bilbao and Atletico at the end of the season. Real Madrid lies in second in the La Liga race and will encounter a form of resistance come the end of their season. Real Madrid still have to travel to Andalusia to take on Sevilla Wednesday the 26th of March, a Madrid derby against Rayo, they travel to the Basque country against Sociedad. Towards the end Los Merengues have to entertain Valencia and Espanyol on the final day. Atletico Madrid sits on top of the pile will also have to endure a degree of resistance from their remaining fixtures. Simeone's side travel to Bilbao Saturday the 29th, entertain Villarreal, travel to Valencia April the 27th, entertain Malaga the 11th of May and end their campaign at the Camp Nou against Barcelona.</p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/ronaldo celebrates 3rd.jpg" alt="" width="400" height="380" /></p>
<p>The title race at this point and time in La Liga has been all but defined yet. All three sides have at least one hand firmly on the league trophy. The difference between the league today, from where it was last year, where Barcelona was running away with the league title. The football public and neutral will finally get to enjoy the competition in Spain to a degree, which it deserves. At this present stage in the quest for the La Liga title only time will tell, who among the three will emerge victorious in the domestic league in Spain.</p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Lionel-Messi-Barcelona3.jpg" alt="" width="470" height="300" /></p>
<p> </p>
Gio Franco
2014-03-26T05:00:00Z
England Will Surprise the World in Brazil
Rafael Gonzales
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/England-Will-Surprise-the-World-in-Brazil/-518206636250819511.html
2014-03-21T23:32:00Z
2014-03-21T23:32:00Z
<p>It may be a bit of hopeful thinking on our behalf, but we here at World Football Daily have been saying it since the draw that England will likely surprise much of the footballing world come this Summer in Brazil. Roy Hodgson and the Three Lions have a tough group in Italy, Uruguay and Costa Rica, but their schedule may set up perfectly to maximize points and shock fans from all over.</p>
<p>Of course, England will be crossing their fingers when it comes to their stars staying healthy heading into the tournament, but hopes are high that a healthy Jack Wilshere will be back in form just at the right time, along with English stalwarts like Wayne Rooney, Steven Gerrard and Joe Hart who are all competing in an incredibly entertaining title chase in the English Premier League. If Roy has a healthy pool of players to choose from, they should be able to pull off some impressive results come Brazil 2014.</p>
<p><img style="float: right; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Wayne+Rooney+England+v+Chile+B8hHk9rtmrml.jpg" alt="England's World Cup Potential" width="300" />England start things off in the Amazonian city of Manaus where they meet Italy, the team that knocked them out of the European Championships in 2012. Now everyone knows that Italy is a perennial powerhouse when it comes to international footballing competitions, but we can all agree that generally, Italy comes out of the gates a little slow and tend not to peak until later in the knock out rounds. So the fact England get them right off the bat is a boon for them. Plus, Italy are struggling to let go of their old guard with the likes of Captain and Keeper Gianluigi Buffon and Midfield Maestro Andrea Pirlo and the lack of consistency coming from their younger talents means that England should come away with a draw at minimum. Don’t be surprised though if Roy’s men come away with all three points from this encounter though.</p>
<p>The second World Cup group stage match for England comes in the form of Uruguay. Although Luis Suarez is lighting it up for Liverpool this season in the English Premier League, this may also be the reason why England can capitalize on this encounter. Nearly everyone from the England camp are familiar with the Uruguayan striker and that means they should also be familiar with his habits and tendencies up top too. That doesn’t mean they will be able to shut Suarez down, but this may be the game the gets Luis in trouble in the referee’s book as England players push all the right buttons to get Suarez doing all the wrong things. Don’t be surprised if England win this match.</p>
<p>The final match of the group stages for England is against the Ticos of Costa Rica. Although they looked decent in the Hexagonal qualifying rounds of CONCACAF, you can attribute that to the Mexicans and the Americans failing to play at the top of their level. We’re not saying that CONCACAF hasn’t raised the bar a bit in terms of competition, but Costa Rica should be a nice way to wrap up the group stages for England and they should come away with all three points here.</p>
Are we saying that England could come away with a perfect group stage showing? Well, yes we are. Inspite of the odds favoring to Italy in their first match which we can see at William Hill: <a title="Bet on England" href="http://sports.williamhill.com/bet/en-gb/events/england-world-cup-betting/" target="_blank">http://sports.williamhill.com/bet/en-gb/events/england-world-cup-betting/</a>, we still believe that England will top the group and with Italy following behind them. We strongly feel that they will win all the three games in the group stages.
Rafael Gonzales
2014-03-21T23:32:00Z
Club Tijuana terminate the LA Galaxy
Gio Franco
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Club-Tijuana-terminate-the-LA-Galaxy/-71671588633362956.html
2014-03-21T01:51:00Z
2014-03-21T01:51:00Z
<p>A perfect match up between MLS big fish the <a title="LA Galaxy homepage" href="http://www.lagalaxy.com/" target="_blank">Los Angeles Galaxy</a> and Liga MX's top "dogs" <a title="Club Tijuana Xoloitzcuintles homepage" href="http://www.xolos.com.mx/en" target="_blank">Club Tijuana Xoloitzcuintles</a>. The <a title="MLS homepage" href="http://www.mlssoccer.com/" target="_blank">MLS</a> has indeed progressed from where they were a few years ago particularly in the league's athleticism. Liga MX has always been depicted as the "only" major league in North and Central America, in terms of physicality, technique and tactics. The first leg in Los Angeles was an example of the two different types of playing styles. The second leg was an exact same example, but with a higher level of intensity and urgency added by both squads.</p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/omar gonzalez v xolo.jpg" alt="" width="385" height="315" /></p>
<p>The first leg in Los Angeles was a strong depiction of the difference between both teams and their respective leagues as well. The first game of this tie was in fact the Galaxy's second game of their new campaign this season. Opposed to Club Tijuana who is in the middle of their season of the Liga MX Clasaura, the difference of form was evident. LA Galaxy head coach reiterated multiple times to the media. That the setup of the MLS season opposed to that of Liga MX puts the CONCACAF Champions League greatly in the favor of Liga MX. The Galaxy began the first leg flying and pushing themselves forward into good positions at the Stub Hub Center. In just 12 minutes the Galaxy found the back of the net for the first time this season (after losing their home opener 0-1 to RSL). The Galaxy's new acquisition Samuel bolted into the box in the 12th minute to collect Keane’s woeful first touche. Samuel smashed his shot into the back of the net from close range to give the LA Galaxy the lead 1-0 and opening his scoring account after two starts for LA.</p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/samuel celebrates v xolo.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="350" /></p>
<p>The first half at the Stub Hub Center was a strong physical display by the Los Angeles Galaxy; Club Tijuana appeared shell shocked in the first 45 minutes. The second half on the other hand would prove be a very exciting non-scoring half of North American soccer. Xoloitzcuintles came out firing and were surprisingly effective on set pieces. Challenging Jaime Penedo several times and forcing the Panamanian keeper into making many crucial saves. The first leg at Stub Hub ended in a 1-0 victory for the home side, a crucial win but the Galaxy could of had won by a larger margin. When Club Tijuana Head coach Cesar Farias was confronted about the result of the first tie, he admitted to his side's dismal showing in the first half. Cesar Farias also thought that Xolos deserved a goal for their efforts in the second half. Farias was also quick to mention his confidence in Xoloitzcuintles when they returned home in Tijuana for the second leg.</p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/galaxy v xolo.jpg" alt="" width="380" height="300" /></p>
<p>The second leg in Baja California was electrifying to say the least, as it took the home side just one whole minute to get on the score sheet. Quick buildup by Xolos brought Benedetto and Jaime Ayovi in the box. After an obvious foul on Benedetto the ball fell to Ayovi and the Ecuadorian winger quickly dispatched his shot into the net. In less than two minutes Tijuana had equalized the aggregate score at the Estadio Caliente and things would get worst for the Galaxy. In the ninth minute Jaime would grab his second goal of the night to make it 2-0 to Xoloitzcuintles. A beautiful over the top pass by Javier Guemez sent the onside Ayovi one on one with Jaime Penedo. The man from the equator slipped passed Penedo and easily slid his shot into the goal to make it 2-0 to Tijuana.</p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/galaxy-tijuana-blog.jpg" alt="" width="450" height="250" /></p>
<p>The Galaxy's nightmares wouldn't end there either, in the 26th minute Dario Benedetto punished LA after woeful defending from Leonardo. The ball fell in front of Leonardo instead of quickly clearing the ball Leonardo attempted to control the ball. Benedetto mugged Leonardo and from there it was Benedetto taking on Penedo. Dario sent his shot low and to Penedo's right side netting to make it 3-0 to Club Tijuana. The Galaxy defense looked sluggish to say the least, Gonzalez and De La Garza were making tackles. Leonardo and Riley on the other hand were struggling to keep up with Xolos and their high level of urgency going into this match. Halftime couldn't come quick enough for the Los Angeles Galaxy as it was more than evident that a change or two was required.</p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Pellerano v juninho.jpg" alt="" width="400" height="280" /></p>
<p>For the second half Bruce Arena made a double substitution, Riley came off for Todd Dunivant and Samuel exited for the 6’ 4” Robert Friend. After the subs, the Galaxy came back firing, trying to remedy the situation they have found themselves in. In fact, it took just two minutes for the Galaxy to pull a goal back and to establish a lifeline for them. A free kick close to the middle of the field was sent in by Donovan, Gonzalez got to the free kick, nodded the ball to the far post where Robbie Keane was crashing and made it 3-1 in Tijuana. The thrills and spills of the tie wouldn't come to a head until the 82nd minute when Richard Ruiz smashed home a brilliant shot to make it 4-1. More drama would unfold as Landon Donovan and Robbie Keane linked up on a dazzling counter attack, 4-2.</p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/leonardo v benedetto.jpg" alt="" width="350" height="350" /></p>
<p>The match in Tijuana ended 4-2, in favor of Club TJ, the 1-0 lost in LA made the aggregate 4-3 in favor of Xolos. The tie was a fascinating one, a spectacle to observe, in fact an interesting comparison between the two leagues. One has to make an obvious critique that due to the poor scheduling (yes, its poor scheduling) in the MLS. Each team from the MLS will have a hard time performing against their Liga MX counter parts since they have been playing for 11 weeks in their respective league. Opposed to the just two matches the Galaxy has played for their season thus far. An admiral display by the Galaxy in the second half in Tijuana, but it just wasn't enough for LA to progress to the semi finals of the CONCACAF Champions League. The effort displayed by the LA Galaxy in Tijuana, particularly their second half is proof that the MLS is capable of competing against Liga MX. The main detriment to the Galaxy and their campaign for the Champions league should be placed squarely on the MLS. The structure of the league’s schedule allows their teams who are competing in the champions’ league to take an extended break. The LA Galaxy played with real character; they just couldn’t outplay a team who is in form in their current season. Great performance by Xoloitzcuintles, returning home from a defeat in Carson, and scoring four goals at home to qualify to the Champions League semifinals.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/ayovi celebrates .jpg" alt="" width="500" height="360" /></p>
<p><br /><br /></p>
Gio Franco
2014-03-21T01:51:00Z
Rafa's Thoughts on the Nike Release of the US Kit and the Magista Boots
Rafael Gonzales
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Rafas-Thoughts-on-the-Nike-Release-of-the-US-Kit-and-the-Magista-Boots/-96082330852116639.html
2014-03-20T17:37:00Z
2014-03-20T17:37:00Z
One of the best things about World Cup years is all the technology and kits that come with it. We just got the new US Soccer National Team kit, the same kit that the Americans will be rocking this Summer in Brazil. I took some time to talk about the technology and style behind the shirt in further detail in a YouTube review which you can find below. <br /><br />Nike has all the information on the <a title="US Kit Information" href="http://nikeinc.com/nike-football-soccer/news/nike-soccer-unveils-2014-usa" target="_blank"><strong>US Kit here</strong></a>.<br /><br />But that's not all. I also talk about the release of some incredible football boot technology in the form of the new Nike Magistas. Made with Flyknit technology and utilizing a sock type sleeve up your ankle, this boot is going to change the footballing landscape. You can find out more on the Magista boots <a title="Magista Boots" href="http://nikeinc.com/nike-football-soccer/news/nike-changes-football-boots-forever-with-new-magista" target="_blank"><strong>here</strong></a>.<br /><br /><br /><br /><iframe src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/L7gyP0vB1VE" frameborder="0" height="315" width="560"></iframe>
Rafael Gonzales
2014-03-20T17:37:00Z
Arsenal aims high after North London derby
Gio Franco
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Arsenal-aims-high-after-North-London-derby/958303961049566725.html
2014-03-18T06:35:00Z
2014-03-18T06:35:00Z
<p> </p>
<p>After a dreadful Europa League match in London against Benfica, Spurs found themselves humbled again by their rivals <a title="Arsenal homepage" href="http://www.arsenal.com/home" target="_blank">Arsenal</a>. Sunday's display depicted Spurs' occasional obstacles that title contenders usually walk over with ease. The match began with <a title="Tottenham Hotspurs homepage" href="http://www.tottenhamhotspur.com/" target="_blank">Tottenham</a> taking the game to Arsenal, but their forward thinking ended up falling short, rather fast too. Sandro's lazy forward pass was easily picked out by Oxlade-Chamberlain in the second minute and Ox played it wide to Rosicky. Rosicky burst down the right flank played a quick 1-2 pass with Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain right before Tomas blasted his shot into the net. There was absolutely no way Hugo Lloris could save that shot, many can argue that Sandro's initial pass and delayed tackle combined for Arsenal taking a lead at White Hart Lane.</p>
<p><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Rosicky shot.jpg" alt="" width="500" height="325" /> </p>
<p>It was a tale of two different strategies being thrown at Tim Sherwood this week. After having been dealt a humiliating defeat to a high pressing and forward attacking Benfica, at home 3-1. Sherwood was hoping to bounce back from their defeat to the Portuguese giants against Tottenham's north London rival, Arsenal. The Gunners after taking their quick lead were sporting a tactic usually adopted by other teams in England and Italy. Sitting back and holding onto their narrow lead exhibited Wenger's squads’ abilities to survive a physical battle. In fact when looking at the overall match statistics, the facts were there for observation. Tottenham out shot Arsenal 17 shots for Spurs to Arsenal's seven with only 17 shots two of them were on target for the Lilywhites opposed to three by Arsenal.</p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/sagna on rose.jpg" alt="" width="350" height="250" /></p>
<p>Out of 17 shots only two efforts forced Szczeny into action, which translates easily, Tottenham were not making anything of their efforts. Yes Spurs supporters the numbers don't lie, but your side's domination of possession, shots and corner kicks couldn't faze the Gunner's back line. It appears after Arsenal's exit from Europe by the hands of Bayern Munich again, has reinvigorated the Gunners. In the right time too, the defeat in Europe will allow Arsene Wenger's men to refocus on what they deem important, domestic success.</p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Rosicky on vertogonen.jpg" alt="" width="450" height="350" /></p>
<p>Arsenal occupies the third spot in the Premier League and they are also in the semi-final for the FA Cup. With the Gunners exit from Europe the odds of Arsenal sputtering out of contention for silverware has diminished. In regards to the League, a slight warning must be put on for you Gunner supporters; both Arsenal and Chelsea are still competing in other competitions. Arsenal has the semi-final of the FA Cup and Chelsea is still fighting to continue through in the Champions League. <a title="Liverpool FC homepage" href="http://www.liverpoolfc.com/welcome-to-liverpool-fc" target="_blank">Liverpool</a> and <a title="Manchester City homepage" href="http://www.mcfc.com/" target="_blank">Manchester City</a> only have one priority from here on out, winning the Barclays Premier League. That being said Arsenal fans, do keep one eye over your shoulder for City and Liverpool. </p>
<p> </p>
<p><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Massive stop by gunners.jpg" alt="" width="450" height="300" /><br /><br /><br /></p>
Gio Franco
2014-03-18T06:35:00Z
Portland Timbers 1-1 Chicago Fire from Providence Park
Mark Henty
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Portland-Timbers-1-1-Chicago-Fire-from-Providence-Park/-406530742928313963.html
2014-03-16T20:56:00Z
2014-03-16T20:56:00Z
<p><strong>MLS Game 2– Providence Park</strong></p>
<p><strong>03/16/2014: Cloudy, 14C/57F</strong></p>
<p><strong>Attendance: 20,132</strong></p>
<p><strong>Portland Timbers vs. Chicago Fire</strong></p>
<p><strong>Starting Line-ups: </strong></p>
<p><strong>Portland Timbers – </strong>GLK Donovan Ricketts, DEF Jack Jewsbury, DEF Norberto Paparatto, DEF Mamadou Danso, DEF Michael Harrington, MID Will Johnson, MID Diego Chara, MID Diego Valeri, FWD Darlington Nagbe, FWD Gaston Fernandez, FWD Maximiliano Urruti. <strong>Formation: 4-2-3-1.</strong></p>
<p><strong>Chicago Fire – </strong>GLK Sean Johnson, DEF Lovel Palmer, DEF Gonzalo Segares, DEF Bakary Soumare, DEF Jhon Kennedy Hurtado, MID Jeff Larentowicz, MID Matt Watson, MID Alex, MID Harrison Shipp, MID Benji Joy, FWD Quincy Amarikwa. <strong>Formation 4-5-1.</strong></p>
<p><strong>Game 2 of the MLS season:</strong></p>
<p>It was a mostly cloudy and somewhat breezy Sunday afternoon at Providence Park that greeted the hosts the Portland Timbers and the visitors the Chicago Fire for their 2<sup>nd</sup> games of the season. Both were looking to improve on their opening matches after the Timbers required a last gasp equalizer from Gaston Fernandez against Phildelphia Union to secure a 1-1 draw at home and the Fire came back from 2 goals down away to Chivas USA and thought they were on for a well-earned point on the road before Bobby Burling struck in the 88<sup>th</sup> minute to give Chivas the win at home and deny Chicago a point.</p>
<p>Portland’s team sheet had no surprises and the only change was one enforced through Pah Modou Kah’s injury that he suffered in the opening match with Mamadou Danso filling in for him at center back. For the Chicago Fire, there were 4 changes from their opening fixture with Dilly Duka, Chris Rolfe, Patrick Nyarko, and Juan Luis Anangono making way for not only Matt Watson and Harrison Shipp in midfield, but they also included both of their goalscorers who came on as substitutes last week against Chivas USA in midfielder Benji Joya and forward Quincy Amarikwa.</p>
<p><br /> <strong>Match Highlights:</strong></p>
<p><strong>1<sup>st</sup> Half</strong></p>
<p>The opening few minutes saw Portland clearly deciding to go at Chicago using their creative midfield to play some excellent interchange passing through the central areas of the pitch and if Urriti had just held his run in the 8<sup>th</sup> minute, he would have been clean through on the left from Gaston Fernandez excellent, outside of the right foot pass that sliced through the Fire defense. The Fire a minute later responded with a chance of their own as the Timbers failed to deal with a defensive header and Alex slung a shot at goal from just outside the box that Donovan Ricketts tipped around the post. It was the Timbers who pressed more in the opening 15 minutes and when Urruti was fouled 30 yards from goal by Hurtado, it provided a decent opportunity for Will Johnson but he unfortunately dragged his shot low and wide of the goal.</p>
<p>The Chicago Fire had another reasonable opportunity on 16 minutes when a skillful turn from Quincy Amarikwa after Michael Harrington poorly gave the ball away broke through the Timbers defense but his low cross could not be met by Benji Joya as it was just behind him. <strong>Penalty: </strong>A minute later the Chicago Fire were awarded a penalty when the uncomfortable looking Norberto Paparatto clumsily brought down Amarikwa in the penalty area. <strong>Jeff Larentowics</strong> sent Donovon Ricketts the wrong way and slotted the ball home to give the away side the lead in the 19<sup>th</sup> minute. <strong>Portland Timbers 0-1 Chicago Fire.</strong></p>
<p>This was the 2<sup>nd</sup> home game in a row that the Portland Timbers had gone behind in and with 2 games on the road coming up followed by bitter rivals the Seattle Sounders at home, these were already slightly worrying signs for a team whose home record was imperative to their success last season. The game then into a slight lull as the Chicago Fire held the Timbers at bay who rarely threatened and like the Philadelphia Union last week, they looked to catch out Portland on the break. Going into half time, the Timbers continued to enjoy more of the possession but rarely threatened the Chicago Fire goal and when they did obtain free kicks in fairly decent positions, they were unable to create anything clear cut except for a headed chance in the 42<sup>nd</sup> minute from Diego Valeri that didn’t really trouble Fire keeper Sean Johnson.</p>
<p><strong>Half Time Score: Portland Timbers 0-1 Chicago Fire</strong></p>
<p><strong>2<sup>nd</sup> Half:</strong></p>
<p>The Timbers kicked off the 2<sup>nd</sup> half knowing that they were again looking at the possibility of their first defeat at home in over a year unless they upped their game and they clearly looked to adopt a more direct approach, getting the ball forward with more speed and purpose and looking to cut open the Chicago Fire defense. Nagbe and Fernandez had switch position at half time in a change of tactics from coach Caleb Porter. It was, however Donovan Ricketts who pulled off an excellent save from the powerful shot by Matt Watson on 54 minutes.</p>
<p>As the Timbers continued to press, including a neat move between Valeri and Fernandez that almost found an outstretched Urruti at the far post, Caleb Porter decided to being on Steve Zakuani with an hour gone to try to freshen up the attack. By now, Jack Jewsbury was venturing forward on multiple occasions and almost put Gaston Fernandez through in the 66<sup>th</sup> minute closely followed by a well worked move that saw the substitute Zakuani almost open his account for the season. The Portland Timbers were beginning to look dangerous in search of the equalizer.</p>
<p>In the 72<sup>nd</sup> minute the Timbers should have scored as Bakary Soumare and Keeper Sean Johnson both missed a Diego Valeri though ball and Will Johnson had a brief opportunity to hit the almost open goal but it slid agonizingly just wide of the post. A minute later, the now more influential Darlington Nagbe went on a mazy run but was brought down just outside the penalty are by Fire substitute Patrick Nyarko who was booked for his foul. Valeri took the free kick from 20 yards out and having deflected it off the wall, the ensuing scramble in the 6 yard box almost provided Fernandez and finally Will Johnson with a sight on goal but between them, they couldn’t get a dangerous shot off as it was collected by Fire keeper Sean Johnson. By now, it was pretty much all Timbers with 15 minutes to go.</p>
<p><strong>79 mins Goal: </strong>The Timbers finally break through! Some excellent work on the right hand side between Jack Jewsbury and Diego Valeri created an opening where the cut back to Nagbe was well saved by Johnson but <strong>Gaston Fernandez </strong>was on hand to tap it in from 5 yards. <strong>Portland Timbers 1-1 Chicago Fire 1</strong></p>
<p>The Timbers continued to press in search of the winner and with 5 minutes to go as the Timbers broke Steve Zakuani was chopped down by the already booked Patrick Nyarko and the referee had no choice but to give Nyarko his second yellow and send him off.</p>
<p><strong>Full Time</strong></p>
<p><strong>Summary:</strong></p>
<p>The 2<sup>nd</sup> half display from the Portland Timbers was much more direct and they looked dangerous, especially in the final 30 minutes and the switch over between Fernandez and Nagbe brought both players into the game and Jack Jewsbury consistently provided the width that they were missing in the first half. 2 draws is not what the Timbers will have hoped for from these two home opening games but the Chicago Fire will leave Portland happy to have taken a point despite being run ragged for much of the second half.</p>
<p>Shots: Portland Timbers 21-14 Chicago Fire</p>
<p>Corners: Portland Timbers 5-8 Chicago Fire<br /><br />Possession: Portland Timbers 64%-36% Chicago Fire </p>
<p><strong>Final Score: Portland Timbers (Fernandez 79) 1-1 Chicago Fire (Larentowicz 19 pen)</strong><br /> <br /></p>
<p> </p>
Mark Henty
2014-03-16T20:56:00Z
Chelsea's capitulation gives others hope
Gio Franco
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Chelseas-capitulation-gives-others-hope/-472029262421921860.html
2014-03-16T20:20:00Z
2014-03-16T20:20:00Z
<p>Why is the Barclays Premier League one of the most watched leagues in the world? Well if one watched <a title="Aston Villa homepage" href="http://www.avfc.co.uk/" target="_blank">Aston Villa</a> versus <a title="Chelsea FC homepage" href="http://www.chelseafc.com/" target="_blank">Chelsea</a> one would know exactly that reason why. The title race door has been flung completely open potentially allowing anyone in the top four positions to walk right in for domestic glory. Aston Birmingham was the place that door opened wide for the likes of <a title="Manchester City homepage" href="http://www.mcfc.com/" target="_blank">Manchester City</a>, <a title="Arsenal homepage" href="http://www.arsenal.com/home" target="_blank">Arsenal</a> and <a title="Liverpool homepage" href="http://www.liverpoolfc.com/" target="_blank">Liverpool</a>. The game was Aston Villa against Chelsea, in what has been considered a tough fought match between the two.</p>
<p><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Willian vs villa.jpg" alt="" width="350" height="300" /> </p>
<p>The last league game Saturday evening and in fact the one marred with some kind of controversy. In what was a tight first half, which only saw one opportunity coming from Nemanja Matic. The young Serb's goal was disallowed being ruled back for a handball in the 41<sup>st</sup> minute. Originally referee Chris Foy pointed to the center spot allowing the goal, only to be corrected by his assistant for the right call. Not to forget Willian's first yellow card of the evening occurred in the 24th minute for a cynical tackle on Bacuna. Another fascinating fact coming out of the first half of the match in Birmingham was that Chelsea enjoyed a majority of possession (65%).</p>
<p><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Delph back heel goal.jpg" alt="" width="420" height="375" /> </p>
<p>The second half was where the implosion began, the catalyst that set off the chain of events came from Willian. The Brazilian winger made a physical challenge on Fabian Delph , a foul was given but Foy judged it to warrant a second yellow card to send off Willian rather than a warning for what appeared to be slight foul. The sending off was an evident clue to how Chelsea capitulated. Although Manchester City were reduced to 10 men early in their game Saturday, they managed to beat Hull City at Kingston Comm. Stadium. The goal came from a bursting Fabian Delph in the 82nd minute. Delph stole the ball from Ivanovic at the midfield, danced around Matic and charged towards goal. The English international played the ball wide left for Albrington who sent the ball back into the danger area for Fabian to back heel the ball into the back of the net.</p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Delp celebrates.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="300" /></p>
<p>The implosion and more interesting talking points came in the dying seconds of the match as Ramires was given his walking orders. The Brazilian was erupting down the sidelines desperate to get the ball up the field for a final attack on the Villa goal. Ahmadi made the clinical tackle to put a stop to Ramires' breakthrough, but not without paying the price, on the follow through Ahmadi was stamped on by Ramires. The implosion continued, Ramires received his walking orders and not only did the two Brazilians get sent off but so did their Portuguese manager, Jose Mourinho. Jose Mourinho after the challenge by Ramires walked onto the pitch to try to get a few words with referee Chris Foy and from there Jose was sent to the stands.</p>
<p><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Ramires sending off.jpg" alt="" width="400" height="260" /> </p>
<p>With this loss Chelsea allow the title race to become more dramatic than ever. City's impressive win against <a title="Hull City homepage" href="http://www.hullcitytigers.com/" target="_blank">Hull</a>, Liverpool's 3-0 victory over <a title="Manchester United homepage" href="http://www.manutd.com/" target="_blank">Man United</a> at Old Trafford, and Arsenal's triumph over their North London rivals <a title="Tottenham Hotspurs homepage" href="http://www.tottenhamhotspur.com/" target="_blank">Spurs</a> put all four in contention for the domestic title. Each one of these teams has at least one hand on the Premier League trophy, who will be holding it though come May? We will find out in nine more fixtures. </p>
<p><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Mourinho discusing lambert.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="300" /></p>
<p> </p>
Gio Franco
2014-03-16T20:20:00Z
Excited Opening Night Draw in Providence Park
Mark Henty - Timbers' Reporter
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Excited-Opening-Night-Draw-in-Providence-Park/-274153059427020192.html
2014-03-09T14:46:00Z
2014-03-09T14:46:00Z
<strong>The 2014 Season Begins:</strong>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">It was a rainy night in March that greeted the season opener between the <a title="Portland Timbers Online" href="http://www.timbers.com/" target="_blank"><strong>Portland Timbers</strong></a> and <a title="Philadelphia Union Online" href="http://www.philadelphiaunion.com/" target="_blank"><strong>Philadelphia Union</strong></a> at the newly named, Providence Park. Both sides were looking to kick off their seasons with a positive result and the Timbers started the game as favorites after their excellent exploits in the 2013 season which saw them win the Western Conference of the MLS and almost go all the way to the MLS Championship in Caleb Porter’s first full season in charge. <br /><br />Both sides have been busy in the off season and the Portland Timbers have bolstered their ranks in all areas of the pitch with the skillful and experienced forward Gaston Fernandez joining from Argentinian side Estudiantes, and defender Norberto Paparatto who signed from another Argentinian side, Tigre.<br /><br />The Philadelphia Union’s most notable inclusions in the off season include US international midfielder Maurice Edu, who is on loan from BPL side Stoke City, another midfielder in Vincent Nogueira from French side Sochaux, and defender Austin Berry via a trade from Chicago Fire. All of these players were on show in this season opener.</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Caleb Porter started Nagbe, Valeria, and Gaston Fernandez for the first time together in their final preseason draw with the Vancouver Whitecaps and their skillful blend showed very encouraging signs for the Timbers coach. The Timbers went with a 4-2-3-1 with Johnson and Chara sitting centrally behind Fernandez on the left, Valeri in the center, and Nagbe on the right side of the midfield with Urruti the man up top. The Union went with a 4-5-1 formation that broke into a 4-3-3 when on the attack. The ever-raucous Timbers Army ensured there was an electric atmosphere to open the season with.<br /><br /><strong>Match Highlights:</strong></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><strong>1</strong><sup><strong>st</strong></sup><strong> Half</strong></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">After a fantastic rendition of the national anthem by the crowd, the match got underway and as expected the early running was made by the home side from their first corner the Timbers hit the post after Will Johnson’s glancing header was stumbled towards goal by Pa-Modou Kah in only the 3<sup>rd</sup> minute. The Timbers enjoyed a spritely opening 15 minutes with good possession play and Darlington Nagbe was causing the Philadelphia Union some headaches but at the 20 minute mark it was the Union who came closest to opening the scoring when Cristian Maidana’s shot from just inside the penalty brought out an excellent save from Donovan Ricketts down to his left hand side. The Union were getting a foothold in the game and creating chances down both wings, exploiting the Timbers with pacey counter attacks.</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">On 31 minutes just after the Timbers had an excellent opportunity to break through the Union defense after Will Johnson’s pass failed to find an open Gaston Fernandez, the Union had two of the half’s best opportunities in quick succession. One a whipped in free kick by Sebastien Le Toux that was just begging to be headed into the goal and then Michael Harrington cleared another chance almost off the line less than a minute later. The Philadephia Union’s pace down both sides of the pitch were causing the Timbers real problems and will possibly feel that they had more of the clear cut opportunities in the first half.</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">While the Timbers passing patterns were exciting to watch and they had 60% of the possession in the first 45, they were unable to penetrate through the Union back line until the last minutes of the half when they pressed forward obtaining free kicks and corner kicks in decent positions and 2 minutes shy of half time, Gaston Fernandez’ excellent pass gave Will Johnson an opportunity to hit one, centrally from 20 yards out. It had MacMath beaten, but also the left hand post. Going into half time, the home side will have been disappointed not to get a shot on target and the Union will have been the happier side going into the dressing rooms.</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><strong>Score: Portland Timbers 0-0 Philadelphia Union</strong></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"> </p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><strong>2</strong><sup><strong>nd</strong></sup><strong> Half:</strong></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">The 2<sup>nd</sup> half began with half chances at both ends and Will Johnson almost tucked away a difficult after Michael Harrington almost headed him through on goal. Some last ditch defending by the Union’s central pair stopped what would have been a clear cut chance for the Timbers Captain. Much like the first half, it was the Timbers with more possession and some excellent passing maneuvers, but the Philadelphia Union were always a threat on the break .<br /><br />In the 57<sup>th</sup> minute, some excellent hustling by Will Johnson put him deep into the penalty and an excellent cut back to Diego Valeri had “shoot” written all over it. Valeri completely fluffed his shot and the ball skimmed off the outside off his boot and the Union cleared the ball. It was clear that Caleb Porter had some strong words for his side in the dressing room as their play was more direct as the Timbers went in search of the opening goal.</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><strong>Goal 64 mins: </strong>The Union were always looking dangerous on the break and on 64 minutes they forced a corner and from this set piece taken by the impressive playmaker Cristian Maidana they scored via a header by <strong>Jack McInerney</strong> who was in the right place at the right time as he nodded home Maurice Edu’s powerful header to spoil the party for the Timbers from a couple of yards out. <strong>Portland Timbers 0-1 Philadelphia Union.</strong><br /><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/mcinerney_celebrates.jpg" alt="Celebrations" width="350" /><br />The Timbers pressed forward in search of an equalizer and thought they were in on goal from a Michael Harrington cross on 71 minutes but Diego Valeri’s handball inside the penalty area was spotted by the referee just as it looked as though Will Johnson would have a wide open shot from 10 yards out. By now, the Timbers were coming through in waves but cross after cross just were not hitting their targets.</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">As the Portland Timbers went in search of an equalizer the Philadelphia Union seemed quite happy to soak up the pressure and look to steal an impressive away win and make no mistake, they were impressive as they allowed the home side plenty of possession in non-threatening areas but closed them down quickly and utilized good pace on the break. When the Timbers did get into good positions around the edge of the penalty area, they all too often tried for that one pass too many when a shot on target would have been a better option.</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><strong>Goal 93 minutes: </strong>Just as it looked a lost cause and that it was all over, the Timbers scored in the last minute of injury time, also from a corner. Will Johnson swung out the set piece from the right hand side and there was the new signing <strong>Gaston Fernandez</strong> strangely completely free to head the ball home from 6 yards out and send the stadium into orbit. <strong>Portland Timbers 1-1 Philadelphia Union.</strong></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><strong>Summary:</strong></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">A draw was probably a fair result. The Portland Timbers, as one would expect, enjoyed more of the possession and their skill and passing creativity will put them in good standing for the coming season but they will need more cutting edge when in decent attacking positions, especially at home where the packed crowds will be expecting many victories. Valeri and Fernandez were impressive but Darlington Nagbe was probably the man of the match for the home team. Jack Jewsbury and Michael Harrington struggled a little at times with the pace of the breaks from the Union who almost pulled off a smash and grab result. Cristian Maidana was especially impressive for the Philadelphia Union and they soaked up pressure well and kept the Timbers on their toes with their pacey counter attacks that earned them a deserved draw away from home. The home crowd will be happy they their team salvaged a draw right at the death but will know that the Portland Timbers, if they are to emulate of surpass their achievements of last season, will need to provide more cutting edge, especially at Providence Park.</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Shots: Portland Timbers (8) 15-10 (6) Philadelphia Union</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Shots On Target: Portland Timbers 2-4 Philadelphia Union</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><a name="_GoBack"></a>Corners: Portland Timbers (3) 7-6 (2) Philadelphia Union</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><strong>Final Score: Portland Timbers (Gaston Fernandez 93) 1-1 Philadelphia Union (Jack McInerney 64)</strong></p>
<!-- P { margin-bottom: 0.08in; } -->
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><strong>Starting Line-ups: </strong></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><strong>Portland Timbers – </strong>GLK Donovan Ricketts, DEF Jack Jewsbury, DEF Norberto Paparatto, DEF Pa-Modou Kah, DEF Michael Harrington, MID Will Johnson, MID Diego Chara, MID Diego Valeri, FWD Darlington Nagbe, FWD Gaston Fernandez, FWD Maximiliano Urruti.</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><strong>Philadelphia Union – </strong>GLK Zac MacMath, DEF Austin Berry, DEF Amobi Okugo, DEF Raymon Gaddis, DEF Fabinho, MID Maurice Edu, MID Vincent Nogueira, MID Brian Carroll, FWD Jack McInerney, FWD Sebastien Le Toux, FWD Cristian Maidana.</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"> </p>
Mark Henty - Timbers' Reporter
2014-03-09T14:46:00Z
Puma Pushes the Athletes in Italy and Beyond
Rafael Gonzales
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Puma-Pushes-the-Athletes-in-Italy-and-Beyond/-207871845777323714.html
2014-03-05T04:19:00Z
2014-03-05T04:19:00Z
Puma Football and Italy have released their latest home and away kit, 100 days out from this summer's World Cup. The biggest feature in the new kit (aside from the fashionably stylish collar) is the PWR ACTV technology built into the material. This technology is a first to market use of compression and athletic taping within the garment. Allowing the garment to provide micro-massages on the skin, while working with the body to help maximize performance and provide a faster energy supply to the muscles.<br /><br />The shirt itself is a sweet and stylish top, which is what we come to expect from the Italians. In it's tradition Azzurri colors, it's the technology that is the most impressive. It is usually their competitors Nike who bring out this sort of attention to detail in attempts to better their athlete's performance, but in the past year, Puma has really stepped up to deliver some phenomenal products. From boots to kits, Puma has impressed me for sure.<br /><br /><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/SS14 Italy Home FIGC Promo ACTV Slim Jersey_701815_01.jpg" alt="" width="300" /><br /><br />For more see this video:<br /><iframe src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/U2Y90_j0l7g" frameborder="0" height="315" width="560"></iframe>
Rafael Gonzales
2014-03-05T04:19:00Z
Shared Spoils in Madrid
Gio Franco
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Shared-Spoils-in-Madrid/47239894358769873.html
2014-03-03T00:05:00Z
2014-03-03T00:05:00Z
<p>The newly rejuvenated Madrid derby Sunday evening had both its "ups and downs" in regards to tactics and drive by the players. The Madrid "derbi" several years ago was considered an easy walk over by <a title="Real Madrid homepage" href="http://www.realmadrid.com/en" target="_blank">Real Madrid</a>. The "derbi" as of now has been reignited with an explosive vigor. <a title="Atletico Madrid homepage" href="http://en.clubatleticodemadrid.com/" target="_blank">Atletico Madrid's</a> ascension back into the upper echelon of European powerhouses of football has been much accredited to their manager, Diego Simeone. The Copa del Rey victory against their rivals Real Madrid last year at the Bernabeau marked Atletico's official return. Now with their victory at the Santiago Bernabeau in La Liga earlier this year, the mental stumbling block that plagued Atletico has been surmounted.</p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/karims 1st goal 2-2 atletico.jpg" alt="" width="425" height="220" /></p>
<p>The final showing of the "Derbi Madrileno" in the La Liga campaign was electric to say the least. First blood was struck in the opening three minutes of the match at the Vincente Calderon. Diego Godin conceded a corner kick to los Blancos in the opening minutes; the corner was played in short to Di Maria who whipped in a cross to Karim Benzema who cleverly beat the offside trap. Simeone emoted his anger at both the fourth official and his squad, and rightly so as Felipe Luiz left the French striker to alone to stab in Di Maria's cross.</p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Kokes goal.jpg" alt="" width="350" height="350" /></p>
<p>The game had an emotion to it, definitely fueled by los Colchoneros supporters at the Calderon who have been filled with a new faith in their team. Eventually their faith would produce goals, in the 28th minute Arda Turan twist and turned his way into the top of the Real box and found Koke. Jorge "Koke" Resurreccion fired his shot wide into the lower left hand corner of the net from right of the Real Madrid penalty box, 1-1. Los Rojiblancos didn't stop there either, in the 44th minute Atletico Madrid won a foul in the middle of the field in Real's half. Koke played the ball quick into the feet of Gabi. In the open space Gabi powered his shot from 30 yards out into the back of the net to make it 2-1 to home side just before halftime.</p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Gabis shot.jpg" alt="" width="420" height="269" /></p>
<p>The game resumed after the 15-minute interval and the fiery atmosphere was again boiling up like a hot cauldron in the Calderon. Early opportunities fell to the host to take a two goal lead, none more brilliant than Costa's shot in the 51st. Raul Garcia chips the ball over the Real Madrid defense which were pressuring high up the field, for Costa to beat Pepe to the ball. Diego Costa closed in on Lopez in goal, and sent his opportunity wide of the far post. Things in the cauldron nearly boiled over at one point after an hour and five minutes. Costa was booked in the 64th minute for what the referee, Delgado Ferreiro interpreted as simulation by the Brazilian. The Atletico bench and coaching staff evidently felt different, Mono Burgos known for his time playing for Atleti was incensed with the booking on Costa. Displaying his emotions at the referee and for it after being pulled back by Simeone Mono left the dugout. Real Madrid eventually leveled the score when substitute Carvahal cuts down the right flank not contended by Mario Saurez and Carvahal picks out Bale. The Welshman couldn't control Dani's pass and the ball fell right to Cristiano Ronaldo. The Portuguese winger couldn't miss from there, and the game soon became tenser in the ending minutes in search for a winner for both teams.</p>
<p><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Costa takes on Ramos 2-2.jpg" alt="" width="350" height="300" /> </p>
<p>The match ended level at 2-2 in the Vincente Calderon in which Simeone felt the fire from the media. In regards to Simeone’s decision to hold off on making any changes until the 83rd minute when he brought on Christian Rodriguez for Arda Turan; many thought a change was coming earlier. Diego's counterpart Carlo Ancelotti made his first change on the night right before the game hit an hour. The boss for los blancos brought on the more attack minded Marcelo for Coentrao. The Real Madrid manager didn't stop there, in the 71st and 72nd minute Daniel Carvahal and Isco checked in for Arbeloa and Di Maria. The changes began to pay off for Carlo Ancelotti as Carvahal's pressure led to the equalizing goal for the Merengues.</p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/CR7 celebrates.jpg" alt="" width="450" height="280" /></p>
<p>Real Madrid now sits in first place in La Liga and with this draw places Atletico Madrid in third place. The difference between the top three in Spain is only two and three points. The La Liga title is Real Madrid's to lose, despite the upcoming El Classico match against Barcelona March 23 in Madrid.<br /><br /><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Juanfran v CR7 2-2.jpg" alt="" width="430" height="370" /><br /><br /> A victory here can be the deciding factor for Real Madrid, but yet again can also be pivotal to Real Madrid, Barcelona, or Atletico Madrid. In the case of a Real Madrid victory it will push Real four points ahead of the blaugrana, with the assumption they achieve their results against the other teams in Spain the advantage goes to Real in that case. In a circumstance <a title="Barcelona homepage" href="http://www.fcbarcelona.com/" target="_blank">Barcelona</a> win, the Catalans will leap frog los Blancos by two points, again impending they beat everyone else at the end. Again in the latter of circumstances, a draw, a draw would benefit Atletico Madrid, which could tie Real Madrid and make the final match of the league a do or die moment against Barcelona. For once the "harmony" of La Liga is being challenged with the likes of Atletico Madrid and their push for glory this year. The eyes of the neutral football public should now pay particular attention back to Spain. The new Triumvirate of power in Spain has begun to make the quest for the Spanish title entertaining again.</p>
<p> </p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/postgame hugs 2-2.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></p>
<p> </p>
Gio Franco
2014-03-03T00:05:00Z
United chaos in Greece
Gio Franco
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/United-chaos-in-Greece/985803797037930927.html
2014-03-01T02:47:00Z
2014-03-01T02:47:00Z
<p>Many old headlines coming out of Greece in the past were in fact negative, discussing the austerity bill. The austerity bill, that set the entire nation of Greece into chaos and violence in recent times. But here is something that even the great, Pericles himself could of smiled down in Piraeus Greece. <a title="Olmypiacos homepage" href="http://www.olympiacos.org/en" target="_blank">Olympiacos</a> was the first team in Champions League to win at home during the round of 16. <a title="Olympiacos homepage" href="http://www.olympiacos.org/en" target="_blank">Kokkinoi</a> were entertaining the English Champions, <a title="Manchester United homepage" href="http://www.manutd.com/" target="_blank">Manchester United</a>, who are not even a shadow of who they were last year.</p>
<p><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Joel Campbell olympiacos.jpg" alt="" width="450" height="325" /> </p>
<p>Manchester United went into this tie the favorite of the two, and with an assumption that they would get "a result" in Greece. In fact the Greek outfit proved to be a more than a thorn in the English side's foot. To the contrary Olympiacos found themselves in the group stages with <a title="PSG homepage" href="http://www.psg.fr/en/Accueil/0/Home" target="_blank">PSG</a>, <a title="Benfica homepage" href="http://www.slbenfica.pt/en-us/home.aspx" target="_blank">Benfica</a>, and <a title="Anderlecht homepage" href="http://www.rsca.be/go/en" target="_blank">Anderlecht</a>. Thrylos did not get to the Champion's League round of 16 undeservedly; they defeated the Portuguese giants Benfica and outscored Benfica to get where they are now.</p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/1st goal.jpg" alt="" width="400" height="325" /></p>
<p>The match Tuesday evening in Piraeus Greece was a good test for Manchester United and their new manager, who has showed they can perform better at times on the road than at home. In fact this away performance by United is typical to all their performances this campaign in general. A truth to it all is that United seem to lack a drive in all aspects to the game. This team won the premier league last year, and gave <a title="Real Madrid homepage" href="http://www.realmadrid.com/en" target="_blank">Real Madrid</a> a run for their money in Europe as well. The only real difference between this campaign and last year's is a managerial change.</p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/2nd goal celebration.jpg" alt="" width="375" height="325" /></p>
<p>Many have put David Moyes under the microscope this year, and perhaps when it comes to certain areas rightly so. In recent performances many have questioned Moyes capability of changing tactics midway through the game, to better see out a result. Tuesday evening United found themselves down a goal after 38 minutes when Maniatis drove a shot into the crowded penalty area. Dominguez that sent De Gea the wrong way flicked Maniatis shot on and it was 1-0 to the home side with a little more than 50 minutes left in the game. Even though United were capable of dominating possession of the ball, they were unable to make anything concrete of their possession. Their crosses were off target; they couldn't penetrate into the Olympiacos defense by conventional means. The only pressure coming from the Red Devils came from their woeful crosses, which could of fooled many spectators if the delivery was a cross or a shot.</p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Joel celebrates the 2nd goal.jpg" alt="" width="375" height="300" /></p>
<p>At half time some thought a change was coming for the Red Devils, but instead it was "steady on" for United. Which Manchester United bit the bullet, ten minutes after the restart, Michael Olaitan found Joel Campbell in the middle of the field. Joel played the between Carrick’s legs and hooked the ball onto his left foot and past De Gea for the Thrylos second goal of the night. Five minutes from the Arsenal loanee’s goal came Moyes’ change Welbeck came on for the dismal Valencia and Cleverly went off for Kagawa. Even after the change, United still appeared sluggish, and when they finally had a decent opportunity they were wasteful. No moment could better depict the frustration by the Red Devils than that of Robin Van Persie’s miss in the 82 minute. Smalling was able to find Van Persie inside the Olympiacos box; the first real decent opportunity for United and Robin blasted it high over the bar.</p>
<p><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/RVP vs olympiacos.jpg" alt="" width="400" height="325" /> </p>
<p>A defeat in Greece was a possibility, but United will regret not acquiring an away goal in their first leg encounter in Piraeus. In fact it will make the job back at Old Trafford a rather challenging mountain to climb. Since United will have to win 2-0 just to tie the aggregate score. Food for thought for United Supporters, this defeat in Greece is David Moyes first defeat in the Champions League. The legitimate test lies ahead for David Moyes, when United will look to overturn this defeat at Old Trafford in front of the home supporters, who have been very patient with the new boss. Remember football fans, two goals for the red Devils to tie, three to win, with hopes that the Erythrolefkoi can’t get on the score sheet in Manchester. </p>
<p> </p>
Gio Franco
2014-03-01T02:47:00Z
Dortmund dashes Zenit's CL hopes
Gio Franco
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Dortmund-dashes-Zenits-CL-hopes/908820783454527895.html
2014-02-28T02:33:00Z
2014-02-28T02:33:00Z
<p>Tuesday evening in St Petersburg it took Jurgen Klopp's <a title="Borussia Dortmund homepage" href="http://www.bvb.de/eng" target="_blank">Borussia Dortmund</a> side five minutes to go two goals ahead of <a title="Zenit St Petersburg homepage" href="http://en.fc-zenit.ru/main/" target="_blank">Zenit</a>. The match Tuesday in Russia was one of technical skill and physical strength. Klopp would be rather pleased with his side, as it took Dortmund four minutes to strike their first goal. A commanding run by Marco Reus into the Zenit box, in fact barely staying on his feet enduring a tackle from Lombaerts. Reus attempted to stay on his feet and keep the ball in play enough for Henrik Mkhitaryan to assume control and smash it past Lodygin. The nightmare would continue right after for the St Petersburg defense, as Reus grabbed the second for Dortmund just seconds after the first goal.</p>
<p><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/FC-Zenit-v-Borussia 1st goal.jpg" alt="Mkhitaryan nets the first goal" width="450" height="375" /> </p>
<p>St Petersburg manager Luciano Spalleti was reluctant of getting to half time in order to reorganize his squad. It took 12 minutes from the second half restart when Shatov pulled back a goal, after Hulk’s forced goal line clearance from Schmelzer and Rondon rattled the inside post. The ball finally fell to Shatov, which he was quick to send it in despite the chaos in the Dortmund box. Dortmund's two-goal cushion was quickly restored after Zenit's first goal. Lukasz Piszczek found Lewandowski in the box and the Polish combo netted Dortmund's third. The match was quickly turned into a spectacle when Piszczek was booked for obstructing Fayzulin and the referee was quick to point to the spot and show yellow to Lukasz. Hulk stepped up to the spot and cannoned his spot kick into the top right hand corner of the net, making it 2-3 to the visiting Germans. In just two minutes from Hulk's penalty in the 69th minute Zenit again was shell-shocked. Reus combined with Lewandowski inside the 18-yard box and Robert Lewandowski powered a low shot into the lower left hand side of the net.</p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Hulks penalty.jpg" alt="Hulk smashes his penalty in the top right hand corner" width="425" height="325" /></p>
<p>The match ended in a 2-4 lost for the home team, a rather commanding set up for Borussia Dortmund in two weeks when they entertain St Petersburg. If Zenit were to progress to the next round of the Champions League they will need a stroke of luck and vigilance. Luck will help coincide the fortune the Germans had in Russia Tuesday evening. Vigilance, well Zenit at many times was complacent which allowed Dortmund to capitalize on the Russian's stagnant play. In all it might as well be called mission impossible for the Russian outfit, but Football does have its miracles, these miracles are the reason why we watch the Beautiful Game. </p>
<p><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Reus celebrates 2nd goal .jpg" alt="Reus celebrates his goal " width="400" height="300" /></p>
Gio Franco
2014-02-28T02:33:00Z
Knitting and football? It's the adidas Primeknitt
Oliver Wilson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Knitting-and-football-Its-the-adidas-Primeknitt/599747178910830513.html
2014-02-27T13:00:00Z
2014-02-27T13:00:00Z
It's brown, it looks a little different and it's knitted. KNITTED.<br /><br />Adidas claim it's the next big thing to hit football as today they released their new boot for the upcoming World Cup, the Primeknitt.<br /><br /><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/adidas Primeknit -HERO.jpg" alt="" width="480" height="480" /><br /><br />Made of a specially coated yarn that gives the material all the functionality of a normal boot; making it strong, stable and just as waterproof as any other adidas shoe on the market, the company are hoping to have found the next step in football boot evolution. <br /><br />It's environmentally friendly, with one yarn being able to be turned into the boots upper rather than 15 pieces of material being sewn together to make the more traditional looking boots we've become used to, and it fits - according to it's testers, that includes Liverpool hit-man Luis Suarez - like a sock to the players foot, giving the wearer the touch a feel of playing barefoot while providing protection from the elements.<br /><img style="float: right; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Adidas_Primeknits_SideLeft.jpg" alt="" width="400" height="270" /><br />"<em>By producing the world’s first knitted football boot we have provided a brand new solution to the search for higher levels of comfort and flexibility,</em>" said Markus Baumann, Senior VP for Global Football as adidas.<br /><br />"[It] <em>is designed to allow for a bespoke fit for each player, making performance more intuitive and responsive than ever before. Primeknit is a technology that is right at the heart of adidas innovation and we’re excited about introducing this development into football.</em>"<br /><br />The knew shoe has taken around two-years to develop and has been kept as light as possible - weighting in at 165 grams in a size 9 - to give players the burst of speed and quick feet needed for the modern game.<br /><br />Going on general sale in mid-March (and hopefully in some other colours too), adidas hope that the new design is just a starting point to the development of their boot range, with the brand hoping to achieve it's eventual goal of a barefoot or sock fit boot.<br /><img style="float: left; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/251832_Adidas_Primeknits_Styled_shoots134341.jpg" alt="" width="379" height="201" /><br />What do you think of the boot? Are you looking to get your hands on this or are you willing to wait for the reveal of Nike's latest addition to their boot room, especially after yesterday's teaser trailer?<br /><br />Would you think about getting your Gran to make some for you?<br /><br />Let us know on twitter @WFootballDaily or email us show@worldfootballdaily.com
Oliver Wilson
2014-02-27T13:00:00Z
Nike tease and, as usual, we bite
Oliver Wilson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Nike-tease-and,-as-usual,-we-bite/414687667037344973.html
2014-02-26T20:21:00Z
2014-02-26T20:21:00Z
Oh sports equipment makers from around the globe. Why do you tease us with your shinny new products, your tempting videos and your footage of the worlds best telling us your next product is going to revolutionize the sport.<br /><br />It's just not fair because, like the weak willed football fanatics we are, we soak up your photos, videos and press releases time and time again before sitting in a dark room saying, 'It puts the lotion on the skin.'<br /><br />Repeating the same task over and over again, expecting a different result is the definition of madness and, even though we like to think we're not going to be sat rocking, waiting for the big reveal of Nike's new boot, those who know us best know that that is exactly what is going to happen.<br /><br />Below you will find said teaser. WE WANT, WE WANT NOW!!<br /> <iframe src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/EYWMGSGWr_0" frameborder="0" height="315" width="560"></iframe> <br />Could they be <a href="http://www.footyheadlines.com/2014/02/nike-magista-blackout-2014-boot-leaked.html" target="_blank">these</a>? We've seen Iniesta training in these before. <br /><br />We wait with baited breath.<br />
Oliver Wilson
2014-02-26T20:21:00Z
Manic Manchester transfer market
Gio Franco
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Manic-Manchester-transfer-market/629600629723678132.html
2014-02-17T04:15:00Z
2014-02-17T04:15:00Z
<p>As the English Premier League campaign draws to a climax the blame game soon emerges around Old Trafford. How has this very same team who last year won the Premier League, perform so abysmal? Perhaps more appreciation for who and what Sir Alex Ferguson was is in order, the Greatest British manager of all time. Now we live in a era where Sir Alex Ferguson isn't at the helm for United and the Scot's appointed successor appears to be finding life challenging in Manchester. David Moyes since his appointment by Ferguson has been placed under the microscope at Old Trafford.</p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/David Silva 21.jpg" alt="" width="350" height="350" /></p>
<p>Are things at United much different from before to now? When looking at United's local rivals at <a title="Man City homepage" href="http://www.mcfc.com/" target="_blank">Manchester City</a>, there is a plethora of players that were linked to United at times but chose opposite. David Silva after his triumph with Spain in the European Championship of 2008 was linked to both United and City. Valencia in 2010 was in financial disarray (which really not much has changed) and had to opt for the larger offer, which came from the Citizens (24 million pounds). So in 2010 Silva would don the number 21 jersey for City and has been a crucial asset to Manchester City's midfield. Samir Nasri also was linked to join the Red Devils at some point. Instead Manchester City paid the hefty fee of 25 million pounds and he now he's the City's number "8."</p>
<p><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/samirnasri8.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="400" /> </p>
<p>Oddly the list doesn't stop there, Yaya Toure who left Barcelona in the summer of 2010 was also rumored to have acquired the interest of both the Red Devils and the Citizens. The story doesn't change, City paid the money (24 million pounds) and so Yaya became another crucial cog in Manchester City's midfield. Even in the realm of attack, United had an opportunity to acquire Eden Dzeko in the summer of 2009. But the Bosnian decided to stay at Wolfsburg a little longer to build his "stock." Rightly so, 2009-2010 Bundesliga season saw Dzeko as top scorer with 22 goals. City again got to Eden before their red counterparts and purchased the Bosnian's services for a fee of 27 million pounds.</p>
<p><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/yaya toure game blame.jpg" alt="" width="325" height="400" /> </p>
<p>Granted these particular four players for Manchester City have cost the blues 100 million pounds, perhaps more including their salaries. It appears in the football transfer market today, clubs have to pay a pretty premium for players of pristine quality. Instead over the same amount of years and perhaps with a smaller expense report <a title="Man Utd homepage" href="http://www.manutd.com/" target="_blank">Manchester United</a> did acquire players. The question should still stand on these players if they have that certain quality, since it is more than evident that in the football market today, "you get what you pay for."</p>
<p> </p>
<p><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/edin-dzeko-wolfsburg-manchester-united-514.jpg" alt="" width="325" height="325" /></p>
<p> </p>
Gio Franco
2014-02-17T04:15:00Z
Cesar's subs make a "big impact"
Gio Franco
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Cesars-subs-make-a-big-impact/-704107533020682437.html
2014-02-09T04:52:00Z
2014-02-09T04:52:00Z
<p>On a frigid evening in Tijuana Mexico, something many would not associate our friends south of the border with, a cold winter. All things aside Xoloitzcuintles took on <a title="Monterrey homepage" href="http://www.rayados.com/home/bienvenida/" target="_blank">Monterrey</a> in their sixth league match in <a title="Liga MX homepage" href="http://www.ligamx.net/" target="_blank">Liga MX</a>. Club TJ has been enduring a different season again under a new coach Cesar Farias. Before entering this game <a title="Xoloitzcuintles homepage" href="http://www.xolos.com.mx/" target="_blank">Xolos</a> were sitting in the middle of the new Clasaura table at ninth. After their drubbing in Mexico City Xoloitzcuintles were looking to "right the ship." Especially with the upcoming fixtures ahead and their coming CONCACAF Champion's League match against the LA Galaxy.</p>
<p> </p>
<p> Monterrey on the other hand has been bearing the brunt of a dismal Clasaura campaign. Monterrey since the start of the New Year has only achieved one win in six games. Head Coach Jose Cruz also is looking to get his squad back on track. </p>
<p><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/ruiz arce xolo.jpg" alt="" width="450" height="425" /></p>
<p>At the start of the first half, Xoloitzcuintles came out in a 4-3-3 formation, and Monterrey approached this match with 5-3-2 formations. The game was in fact "end to end" drama for both teams; Club TJ looked strong on the build up, but failed to challenge the Monterrey goal. Monterrey's formation allowed their midfield to link up with their defense on the break, which opened the field up for the counter attack. As a matter of fact Monterrey should have been up 1-0 at the break, but Marlon Jesus scuffed his shot wide of the far post in the 16th minute. Monterrey looked very threatening on the counter; their quick passing game was able to find outlets to burst up the field. The first half ended as it started unfortunately, but it was hard to foretell a 0-0 draw in this match.</p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Bennedetto.jpg" alt="Bennedetto celebrates his goal" width="420" height="380" /></p>
<p> The second half it took 21 minutes for the break through to occur, Cesar Delgado for the striped men streaked and weaved into the top of the 18 yard box and bolted his shot into the back of the net. The Xolos were down a goal but refused to give in, and nine minutes after the break through Dario Bennedetto, who was subbed in at the 59th minute, smashed in the equalizer for Tijuana. Bennedetto's goal had an immediate impact on Tijuana's morale as they pressed and pressed for the winning goal. Xoloitzcuintles finally found their winner in the 6 minutes from the full time whistle. On a break down the field Bennedetto was able to cross the ball in the Monterrey box and his cross, found the sub Juan Hernandez who nodded the ball across goal again for Pellerano to head the ball to goal.</p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Pellerano celebrates goal.jpg" alt="" width="450" height="425" /></p>
<p>At the full time whistle Xolos achieved all three points and Monterrey go back home with nothing. Perhaps undeservedly as Jose Cruz's side looked extremely threatening on the break. Food for thought for friends and fans of the <a title="LA Galaxy homepage" href="http://www.lagalaxy.com/" target="_blank">LA Galaxy</a> that are due to play Xolos in March. Club Tijuana is in stride with their current season now, and will be on form when they visit LA March 12. </p>
<p><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Farias press conference.jpg" alt="" width="400" height="400" /></p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
Gio Franco
2014-02-09T04:52:00Z
"Hazard"ous
Gio Franco
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Hazardous/45566013740087912.html
2014-02-06T17:48:00Z
2014-02-06T17:48:00Z
<p>If Eden Hazard had found himself living in the early 90s many in the blue side of London would have constructed a rendition of Michael Jackson's "Dangerous" to his name. <a title="Chelsea FC homepage" href="http://www.chelseafc.com/" target="_blank">Chelsea's</a> display Monday night in the Etihad against <a title="Manchester City homepage" href="http://www.mcfc.com/" target="_blank">Manchester City</a> was one to remember. Jose Mourinho was coy in the post game interviews in regards to how Chelsea performed. Manuel Pellegrini on the other hand will do diligence to get his squad to forget this game and to keep their minds on the task at hand, the possible quadruple. The title race has intensified between first through third as only two points separate them.</p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/ivanovic goal celebration.jpg" alt="Ivanovic celebrates his goal" width="550" height="450" /></p>
<p>The Blues found themselves snapping Manchester City's home record, handing city their first defeat at the Etihad this campaign. One of the key main factors to Chelsea's victory and the position they currently are in contending for the premiership is the form of their Belgian winger Eden Hazard. The young Belgian has become a main attribute to Mourinho's side and cog to Chelsea's attack. Hazard's technique and speed helps add another dimension to the blues when they go forward. His movement from both sides of the pitch was in fact the reason that brought about Chelsea’s goal on Monday night. Many pundits at the start of last season were critical about the young Belgian's price tag from Lille, but he has more than excelled for Chelsea.</p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/hazard vs city zab.jpg" alt="Hazard takes on Zabaleta" width="450" height="400" /></p>
<p>Jose Mourinho when asked about his team's chances of winning the Premier League was coy and perhaps honest with his response. Maybe its the hindsight that Chelsea FC although is playing cohesive and collected football, still lack one key cog. The key the blues are missing is a front man who can score goals left and right. The current strikers at Chelsea have yet to yield a steady flow of goals on their accounts. The last striker the blues could rely on will be making a return to Stamford Bridge in the Champions League, Didier Drogba. The acquisitions of Samuel Eto'o, Demba Ba, Andre Schurrle, and Fernando Torres have failed to replicate their value with goals scored.</p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Jovetic vs chelsea.jpg" alt="Jovetic gets tackled " width="500" height="450" /></p>
<p>In fact Eto'o and only Eto'o can make the only argument, that he took a massive 12 million Euro pay cut to come to Chelsea. Out of the 14 games Samuel has played he bagged six goals for the Blues, his hat trick against Manchester United was alone probably worth his possible "free" transfer from Russia to Chelsea. Demba Ba on the other hand also went to Chelsea on an undisclosed transfer fee, but has yet to reciprocate his form he enjoyed at <a title="Newcastle United homepage" href="http://www.nufc.com/" target="_blank">Newcastle United.</a></p>
<p> </p>
<p>Then you have the German Spanish duo, the duo that was got Roman Abrahmovich to spend a total of 68 million pounds. Andre Schurrle and Fernando Torres, both seem to be an open and closed sore for Chelsea. Although the jury between the Chelsea faithful is out on Torres, since his marketing value and capability at the club have been stellar. But his form on the field has been a shadow of how he was performing at Atletico Madrid and Liverpool. As for Schurrle, it’s been evident he has been finding it difficult to play according to Mourinho's style. Perhaps the remedy for Andre is to be patient and eventually he will find his stride and the back of the net, but time will only tell.</p>
<p><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Eden-Hazard vs demichellis.jpg" alt="Hazard forces Demichellis to commit a foul" width="375" height="325" /> </p>
<p>Mourinho is aware of his squad's capabilities and what position they lack at the moment. The note to take is his ability to get them performing to their best utmost ability and playing to their strengths literally. Maybe Chelsea will not win the Premier League and again maybe they will. They need their forwards to be "firing on all cylinders," and currently they have been "grinding the gears." The light in the Blues world is shining Red, Black and Yellow, Hazard's technique, talent, and pace was enough to help Lille in Ligue 1, and it should be enough to keep Chelsea in the top three.</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
Gio Franco
2014-02-06T17:48:00Z
Wondo and Zusi Show
Gio Franco
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Wondo-and-Zusi-Show/628661417245740376.html
2014-02-02T20:20:00Z
2014-02-02T20:20:00Z
<p>Saturday afternoon was sunny and bright, especially in terms regarding the display from both Chris Wondolowski and Graham Zusi. Leading up to the match that afternoon <a title="USA Soccer homepage" href="http://www.ussoccer.com/" target="_blank">USA</a> head coach challenged his players to remain calm at the back. Even when they are being pressed hard in their own half of the field. The defense on Saturday also endured a clean sheet and was able to calmly able to find simple passes out of pressure. Although the stars and stripes were victorious, there is still a lesson to be had with this win.</p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/1st goal vs Korea.jpg" alt="Wondo nets the first goal for USA" width="500" height="400" /></p>
<p>When USA kicked off Saturday at the Stub Hub Center in Carson, it didn't take long for the stars and stripes to get on the score sheet. In the fourth minute Graham Zusi sent in a cross from the right side of the 18-yard box for Davis to knock back into the danger area for Chris Wondolowski to capitalize. The stars and stripes during the first half found it rather difficult to find a systematic rhythm. At the start of the second half USA were able to find a groove to establish them in. The call for calm by Klinsmann was definitely heard and was the note amongst the squad as they were eager to find each and every outlet pass.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The second half brought about a rhythm of confidence amongst the squad on the field. In the 60th minute Zusi again was able to play Donovan in the box, which Donovan intelligently played the ball back into space for Wondolowski to bag his brace. When it came down to finding space all along the pitch, team USA was not only able to discover space but they did so astutely. When the lads needed to pass the ball out of pressure into space, they accomplished that with some kind of ease. At times though the Warriors were almost able to pin the stars and stripes back into their own half, and forcing a few slight passes back out of the pressure.</p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/2nd goal vs korea.jpg" alt="Team USA celebrates Wondo's 2nd goal" width="400" height="350" /></p>
<p>Food for thought for the red-white and blue though, many anticipated a more forceful display by USA on the score line. Considering all the opportunities that were made during the game and not capitalized on. Regards to a separate issue for head coach Jurgen Klinsmann, player selection. When the day comes for Klinsmann to pick a final 23-man squad for the World Cup. Who will stay and who will go to Brazil? After the display Saturday afternoon, the combination of Landon Donovan, Graham Zusi, and Chris Wondolowski shows a fair amount of attacking promise. But where would it leave the Americans who are abroad, Clint Dempsey, Alejandro Bedoya and Jermaine Jones.</p>
<p><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/mix vs Kim Jin-Su.jpg" alt="Mix challenges for possession of the ball" width="400" height="325" /> </p>
<p>The one thing that must come to Jurgen Klinsmann's mind and on the minds of all the fans of the stars and stripes is who should he take to Brazil, to square off in that grueling group G. </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
Gio Franco
2014-02-02T20:20:00Z
Observe and Report
Gio Franco
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Observe-and-Report/-887820231354673648.html
2014-02-01T18:36:00Z
2014-02-01T18:36:00Z
<p>Under the awkward muggy Southern California weather, the US men's national team endures their January training camp and their friendly against South Korea on the first of February. The players are boisterous and focused for this upcoming encounter with South Korea. Many of who are looking to impress head coach Jurgen Klinsmann in order to make his 23 man roster in Brazil this summer. Graham Zusi will be in the spotlight after his recent win of the <a title="MLS homepage" href="http://www.mlssoccer.com/" target="_blank">MLS</a> Cup with <a title="Sporting Kansas City homepage" href="http://www.sportingkc.com/" target="_blank">Sporting Kansas City</a>. Also one to keep tabs on would be Mike Magee, which would no doubt add a little extra anxiety to Jurgen Klinsmann when it comes to his final selection.</p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/zusi.png" alt="Zusi stops for an interview" width="450" height="450" /></p>
<p>The group stages are set for the world cup and the next thing for USA head coach Jurgen Klinsmann is to select his squad. What better way to judge his players’ form and position among their peers. The upcoming friendly this afternoon will be a good way for one of the many MLS based players to display their attributes to head coach Jurgen. Mike Magee is one to keep an eye on against South Korea. The <a title="Chicago Fire homepage" href="http://www.chicago-fire.com/" target="_blank">Chicago Fire</a> forward netted 21 goals for both the fire and the <a title="LA Galaxy homepage" href="http://www.lagalaxy.com/" target="_blank">LA Galaxy</a>, before he was traded to the Chicago Fire.</p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/mike-magee-chi-fire.jpg" alt="" width="390" height="390" /></p>
<p>This afternoon fans of the <a title="US soccer homepage" href="http://www.ussoccer.com/" target="_blank">US men's national team</a> will watch the possible depth that is slowly emerging from the MLS based players. South Korea will try to press the stars and stripes high up the field in their own half of the field. As Jurgen told the media in Friday’s press conference, Saturday’s game against South Korea "will be a good test for us on Saturday." With the current setup for the world cup, USA has the possibility of playing against South Korea after the group stage, depending on the standings in the group of course. The style of play by South Korea is also somewhat similar to what the stars and stripes can encounter with their particular group.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>As for fans of the Taegeuk Warriors, playing the USA at this stage of their tour will be helpful. After the Reds win against Costa Rica at the LA Coliseum and their lost to Mexico in San Antonio. Many will have their notebooks out for this match, but for the many in the neutral and the fans of both respected teams should relish this matchup from start to end. </p>
<p> </p>
Gio Franco
2014-02-01T18:36:00Z
Juice's five favourite boots of all time
Oliver Wilson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Juices-five-favourite-boots-of-all-time/-906686729909325848.html
2014-01-29T09:37:00Z
2014-01-29T09:37:00Z
<strong>We've been getting a little boot crazy here on World Football Daily and we really don't know when to stop.</strong><br /><br />As football fans - who also happen to be pretty nerdy when it comes to our football equipment - we love seeing new products form our favourite sports brands. Nike, adidas, Lotto, Puma, Diadora, Warrior, you name it, we love seeing it. Shirts, shorts, boots, training gear and, of course, footballs, we want to bring you our top picks every couple of weeks in these categories.<br /><br />First up, arguably the most important category to any part-time pro, football boots.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Before I get into the top five, here are a couple of honourable mentions.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.soccerbible.com/news/football-boots/archive/2014/01/05/up-close-puma-evopower-stampa.aspx" target="_blank">Puma evoPower Stampa</a><br /><br /><img src="http://www.soccerbible.com/cfs-filesystemfile.ashx/__key/CommunityServer.Blogs.Components.WeblogFiles/football-boots.2014.January.PUMA+evoPOWER+Stampa/puma_5F00_evopower_5F00_stampa_5F00_upclose_5F00_img1.jpg" alt="" /><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://www.soccerbible.com/news/football-boots/archive/2009/09/29/power-football-boots-adidas-predator-touch-1996-29-09-09.aspx" target="_blank">adidas Predator Touch 1996</a><br /><br /><img src="http://www.soccerbible.com/cfs-file.ashx/__key/CommunityServer.Components.UserFiles/00.00.00.21.27.Jan09.Jun09.Aug09.Sep09/Predator_5F00_96_5F00_m.jpg" alt="" /><br /><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://www.soccerbible.com/news/football-boots/archive/2009/01/16/football-boots-nike-t90-laser-ii-two-new-colourways-16-01-09.aspx" target="_blank">Nike T90 Laser II</a> (Blue and White)<br /><br /><img src="http://www.soccerbible.com/cfs-file.ashx/__key/CommunityServer.Components.UserFiles/00.00.00.21.27.Jan09/Nike_5F00_laser2new_5F00_m.jpg" alt="" /><br /><br /><br />All of the above look great but weren't unable to make the final cut. These, though, are the top five boots of all time.<br /><br />Lets kick it off. <br /><br />5. <a href="http://www.soccerbible.com/news/football-boots/archive/2013/05/08/nike-mercurial-r9-1998-the-original.aspx" target="_blank">The Nike Mercurial Mk1 - The Original R9</a><br /><br /><img src="http://www.soccerbible.com/cfs-filesystemfile.ashx/__key/CommunityServer.Blogs.Components.WeblogFiles/football-boots.2013.May.Nike+Mercurial+R9+Original/Nike_2D00_Merc_2D00_R9_2D00_98_2D00_Img9.jpg" alt="" /><br /><br />Quite simply, it's the boot that paved the way for all other modern boots.<br /><br />Worn by the greatest player in the world at the time, Ronaldo carved his way through opposition defences right the way to the World Cup final in 1998. Unfortunately the dream ended there for R9, but the boot's legacy lived on through both the players spectacular failure against Zidane's France, and the technology and synthetic design that went into building it.<br /><br /><img src="http://www.soccerbible.com/cfs-filesystemfile.ashx/__key/CommunityServer.Blogs.Components.WeblogFiles/football-boots.2013.May.Nike+Mercurial+R9+Original/Nike_2D00_Merc_2D00_R9_2D00_98_2D00_Img3.jpg" alt="" /><br /><br />It was also one of the first tailor made boots for a player.<br /><br />A CLASSIC. <br /><br /> <br />4. <a href="http://www.soccerbible.com/news/football-boots/archive/2011/06/30/puma-king-top-1982-k-di-football-boots-white-blk-gold.aspx" target="_blank">Puma King Top 1982 K di (White)</a><br /><br /><img src="http://www.soccerbible.com/cfs-filesystemfile.ashx/__key/CommunityServer.Blogs.Components.WeblogFiles/football-boots.2011.June.Puma_5F00_King_5F00_Top_5F00_82_5F00_White/Puma_2D00_King_2D00_Top_2D00_1982_2D00_K_2D00_di_2D002D002D00_WhiteBlkGold_2D00_Main.jpg" alt="" /><br /><br />I don't think much needs to be said about these. When white boots became popular in the 90's it became the mark of top modern players. If you were good enough to get away with wearing white boots, you knew you were good. <br /><br />The Puma Kings were sleek, simple and oh so stylish, the type of boot you almost didn't want to play in incase you got them muddy.<br /><br />The fold over tongue shows the boots retro feel while the Kangaroo leather is soft and comfy for the wearer. <br /><br /><img src="http://www.soccerbible.com/cfs-filesystemfile.ashx/__key/CommunityServer.Blogs.Components.WeblogFiles/football-boots.2011.June.Puma_5F00_King_5F00_Top_5F00_82_5F00_White/Puma_2D00_King_2D00_Top_2D00_1982_2D00_K_2D00_di_2D002D002D00_WhiteBlkGold_2D00_Tech4.jpg" alt="" /><br /><br /><br /><br />3. <a href="http://www.soccerbible.com/news/football-boots/archive/2012/09/25/nike-ctr360-maestri-iii-football-boots-white-volt-green.aspx" target="_blank">Nike CTR360 Maestri III (Green and White)</a><br /><br /><img src="http://www.soccerbible.com/cfs-filesystemfile.ashx/__key/CommunityServer.Blogs.Components.WeblogFiles/football-boots.2012.September.Nike+CTR360+White+Yellow+Green/Nike_2D00_CTR360_2D00_Wht_2D00_Green_2D00_Volt_2D00_Img_2D00_Main.jpg" alt="" /><br /><br /> Rafa loves telling the story of how Nike flew him up to Portland for a weekend of football and drinking with other journalists. While the whole party atmosphere of the weekend, combined with trying out Nike's newest gear, sounded great, the real reason I was (and still am) so jealous of his little trip to the Pacific North West is because he got to wear and bring home a pair of these bad boys.<br /><br /><img src="http://www.soccerbible.com/cfs-filesystemfile.ashx/__key/CommunityServer.Blogs.Components.WeblogFiles/football-boots.2012.September.Nike+CTR360+White+Yellow+Green/Nike_2D00_CTR360_2D00_Wht_2D00_Green_2D00_Volt_2D00_Img_2D00_Inside.jpg" alt="" /><br /><br />They just look beautiful, with some great colour schemes (in yellow and black they're fantastic too), and help provide a little extra touch and control when wearing them.<br /><br />The peak of Nike's technology to assist the playmakers of the game, if I were to own a pair of Nike boots, it would be these.<br /><br /> <br /><br />2. <a href="http://www.soccerbible.com/news/football-boots/archive/2013/09/30/adidas-release-limited-edition-white-copa-mundial.aspx" target="_blank">adidas White or Samba Copa Mundial</a><br /><br /><img src="http://www.soccerbible.com/cfs-filesystemfile.ashx/__key/CommunityServer.Blogs.Components.WeblogFiles/football-boots.2013.September.adidas+Copa+White/White_2D00_adidas_2D00_Copa_2D00_Img8.jpg" alt="" /><br /><br />If you ever listen to the show, you'll know how much I love these boots. A modern twist on a classic shoe, the limited edition white Mundials I was almost in boot heaven. There's nothing better than seeing a classic boot, worn by Zico, Franz Beckenbauer etc be given a facelift shows adidas paying homage to one of it's most iconic styles and bring is into the modern era. <br /><br /><img src="http://www.soccerbible.com/cfs-filesystemfile.ashx/__key/CommunityServer.Blogs.Components.WeblogFiles/football-boots.2013.September.adidas+Copa+White/White_2D00_adidas_2D00_Copa_2D00_Img2.jpg" alt="" /><br /><br />Mr Adi Dassler himself played a big part in designing the boot just before he passed away and many see it as the las big show piece he brought to the company before his death. Released in 1982 to coincide with the greatest World Cup of all time, Spain '82, the boot reminds us of a phenomenal period in the game's history.<br /><br />White boots nearly always look great, but to then decorate them in adidas' new Samba colours for this year's World Cup in Brazil was a stroke of genius. No longer will the Mundial be thought of as a plain black, bland boot by todays youth. <br /><br />Football bliss.<br /><br /> <br />1. <a href="http://www.soccerbible.com/news/football-boots/archive/2012/05/17/adidas-predator-lz-db-football-boots-pink-white-black.aspx" target="_blank">adidas Predator LZ DB </a><br /><br /><img src="http://www.soccerbible.com/cfs-filesystemfile.ashx/__key/CommunityServer.Blogs.Components.WeblogFiles/football-boots.2012.May.Predator+LZ+DB/Pred_2D00_LZ_2D00_DB_2D00_White_2D00_Pink_2D00_Img_2D00_Main2.jpg" alt="" /><br /><br />18-months ago I was able to get my hands on a pair of adidas Predators. I've always been a fan of the Predator boot since 1996, but, having never owned a pair before then, was always sceptical of how boots design over the ages could truly help with striking the ball.<br /><br /><img src="http://www.soccerbible.com/cfs-filesystemfile.ashx/__key/CommunityServer.Blogs.Components.WeblogFiles/football-boots.2012.June.Predator+LZ+Electricity/Predator_2D00_LZ_2D00_SL_2D00_Electricity_2D00_Img1.jpg" alt="" /><br /><br />After three games wearing them, I was totally convinced. adidas' lethal zones do really help with passing and control and it has helped, even the wildest player like myself, find that each bit of touch on a Monday night and Sunday evening. <br /><br />adidas' three stripes on the side of the boot always get the boot porn juices flowing through the veins and this boot, in either bright yellow or pink and silver, looks the absolute business.<br /><br /><img src="http://www.soccerbible.com/cfs-filesystemfile.ashx/__key/CommunityServer.Blogs.Components.WeblogFiles/football-boots.2012.May.Predator+LZ+DB/Pred_2D00_LZ_2D00_DB_2D00_White_2D00_Pink_2D00_Img3.jpg" alt="" /><br /><br />They are, by far, the comfiest boot I've ever worn and you do get a cheap thrill from blasting a bullet strike into the boots corner with these bad boys. <br /><br />The best boot on the planet (to date).<br /><br />Who has picked the best selection of boots, Juice or Rafa?<br />Let us know by commenting below, emailing us at show@worldfootballdaily.com, tweet <a href="https://twitter.com/WFootballDaily" target="_blank">@WFootballDaily</a> or check out our <a href="https://www.facebook.com/WorldFootballDaily?ref=hl" target="_blank">facebook page</a><br />
Oliver Wilson
2014-01-29T09:37:00Z
Old School vs New School: Where do you sit on the football boot fence?
Oliver Wilson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Old-School-vs-New-School:-Where-do-you-sit-on-the-football-boot-fence/850500679389556829.html
2014-01-28T11:10:00Z
2014-01-28T11:10:00Z
<p>Taking them out of the box for the first time and gazing upon them, taking in their smell, their feel, and almost not wanting to take them for a spin incase their pristine image should be tainted by a speck of mud or a scuff from a challenge.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>There really is nothing like getting a new pair of football boots. </p>
<p> </p>
<p>Those who don’t get it, will never get it. Those who do, know exactly what I’m talking about. Going into a shop, gazing up at the shinny new shoes in their different colours and designs, you can feel like a kid in a candy store (and that’s not just because most of the designs are more ‘out there’ than a Lionel Messi Ballon d’Or suit).</p>
<p> <img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Boots Powder Paint_Group_339x226_blue.jpg" alt="The new designs range of the Copa Mundials" width="521" height="364" /></p>
<p>Picking out the style you want, knowing exactly which players wear which boot, imagining how they’ll look along with your club colours, the mind can roam in this playpen of fun for hours.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Playing for the first time in them gives you confidence, and that first match can feel like your best ever, thanks to the ‘look good, feel good, play good’ premise.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>But even those of us who are into our ‘Boot Porn’, as it’s come to be known in the halls of World Football Daily, are divided as a group.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The new school against the old school, Copa Mundials or Predators, Puma Kings or Evo Speeds?</p>
<p> </p>
<p>It’s a tough choice. <br /> <br /> <img style="float: left; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Samba Copa Mundial_detail_orange_a.jpg" alt="The orange Copa Mundials" width="212" height="212" />Some of us love the retro look. Sleek and plain, there’s no need for the bright colours, the overly complicated patterns, the personalisation. All it needs to be is a boot, as our play, our passing and our touch do our talking for us on the pitch. There’s a history too, to our vintage look kicks. Just give us a black and white patch ball and we can imagine ourselves alongside Zico, Michel Platini or Johan Cruyff, recreating the goals from football’s classic age. The players then didn’t need the marketing, the brash colours, or the one of a kind design schemes. They just needed something that was comfy and that would survive a season. Go out in these and it’s finally a time when Instagram becomes useful, as you put sepia and black & white filters on the pictures of you and your friends reliving the ‘good old days’.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>For others, though, it’s the design, the technology and the branding that gives us that rush.</p>
<p><br /> Adidas’ <em>lethal zones</em> on their Predators, the light weight feel of the Nike Mercurial or the power of Puma’s new Evo Powers, this is what gets a new boot fan up in the morning. You can feel the adjustments made to develop the shoe with every strike, every touch, and theirs a overwhelming sense of self confidence as you play knowing that you have all the additional help you can get behind you. “It doesn’t matter if I slice this too much, the boot pull it back for me.”</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Combined with the shear aesthetic beauty of most new boots and suddenly you can find yourself bending towards the post-2000 group, those who want their shoes bright and dazzling as they weave through your defence.</p>
<p> <img style="float: right; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Samba Copa Mundial_detail_red.jpg" alt="The red Copa Mundials" width="204" height="204" /></p>
<p>There is a place where many of the rest of us sit, slap bang in the middle. A place that sees us longing for a mix of the two; the history and emotion behind the old, with the bold brightness of the new. Long have we been sat, not wanting to pull on the plain black and white of Nike’s Tiempos, but also not wanting to sell our sole to modern football’s, ‘it’s a business not a game’ philosophy, as clubs bring out a new kit for every other occasion, let alone once a year.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Before I continue, I would like to remind everyone that I have not been paid, nor am I going to be paid, for any sort of promotional advertising regarding this post, but I believe there is now finally a middle option, a place of near perfection.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The Copa Mundial is one of the most iconic boots in football. Released in 1982 (the year of the greatest World Cup and the greatest side to never win the World Cup, Brazil), the boot has been worn by some of football’s most majestic players. Made from Kangaroo leather, the original’s sleek black design with a white fold over tongue and Adidas’ three white strips in it’s side, every football fan since it’s release would recognise it in stores or on the pitch, even if they couldn’t tell you it’s a Mundial.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Now, those who love the old have been given a kick from the new with the boot being given a makeover, inspired by Brazil, this year’s World Cup hosts.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><img style="float: left; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Samba Copa Mundial_detail_green_c.jpg" alt="the green heel of the Copa Mundials" width="154" height="154" />The pictures will please all; the new school fans, with its vivid colours, and the old with its untainted classic design, and are arguably the boots to please all. Having worn Mundial’s back in the day (as a youngster), I can tell you that they are extremely comfy, the soft leather from down-under moulding to fit the foot perfectly after a few days in them, although I can’t recall whether I was more or less accurate due to their plain, retro design.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The new designs respect their past in a modern tone and will shortly be in my boot room, once I can find where I left my wallet.</p>
Oliver Wilson
2014-01-28T11:10:00Z
Portugal's typical top three
Gio Franco
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Portugals-typical-top-three/-353518993279970556.html
2014-01-22T21:31:00Z
2014-01-22T21:31:00Z
<p>The New Year tends to bring out interesting feelings amongst us all, negative or positive. Currently in Portugal the historic balance of Portuguese Football has returned to the limelight. The top three of Benfica, Porto and Sporting have returned to contending European spots in <a title="Liga Sagres homepage" href="http://www.ligaportugal.pt/" target="_blank">Liga Sagres</a>. Benfica currently sits in first in Liga Sagres after leap frogging Porto in their recent clash at the Estadio da Luz. Sporting now sits in second, which after what occurred last season is a massive step in the right direction for the green and whites. As for last year's champions Porto who are in third, can still potentially win the league this year too.</p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/benfica eusebio tribute 4.jpg" alt="Eusebio tribute" width="400" height="300" /></p>
<p>In light of current events the position <a title="SL Benfica homepage" href="http://www.slbenfica.pt/en-us/home.aspx" target="_blank">Benfica</a> holds currently in the league has to be considered appropriate. With the sudden death of Eusebio, which sent the entire nation of Portugal into mourning, Benfica after their clash with Porto emerged victorious and on top of the league. The Benfica faithful have had a particularly emotional week. The passing of Eusebio and usurping top spot in the league, even after several colleagues have been placing Jorge Jesus under the microscope. Benfica who also suffered crashing out of the Champions League will have their work cut out for them. Since they parachuted into the Europa League, they will definitely make an attempt for the Europa League. But the eagles would have to keep a watchful eye on their form in Liga Sagres if they wish to take back the league from Porto this year.</p>
<p><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Slimani celebrates vs arouca.jpg" alt="Slimani celebrates his equalizing goal" width="375" height="300" /></p>
<p>Another spectrum of Lisbon depicts a rather different picture than the last campaign. The green and white side, <a title="Sporting Lisbon homepage" href="https://www.sporting.pt/english/english_hp.asp" target="_blank">Sporting</a>, last season endured and abysmal campaign. The club was going under with the wages they offered players, and the fees they purchased players at were at large figures, their pocket books began to diminish. This year's campaign Sporting fell back on their best possible asset, their stellar youth academy. The likes of William Carvalho, Andre Carrillo, Adrien Silva, and Wilson Eduardo, all which are products of the Sporting Lisbon academy, have more than out performed of what was expected of them. So much so that each player has attracted the eyes of many European clubs to the possibility of requisitioning their services. At this point last season, Sporting were perched middle of the totem pole ninth in the league. Today's run of form, position in the league and economic status has been more than evident of Sporting’s change of pace from last season's torrential disparity.</p>
<p><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/gerson magrao vs Pintassilgo arouca.jpg" alt="Magrao contends with Pintassiglo" width="425" height="300" /></p>
<p>Then there was one,<a title="FC Porto homepage" href="http://www.fcporto.pt/pt/Pages/fc-porto.aspx" target="_blank"> Porto</a>, the club where Jose Mourinho got his career start as a manager, winning the champions league over Monaco in 2005. Today Porto has been enjoying success domestically in Portugal and have been a force to compete with in Europe. In Liga Sagres Porto have won the last three campaigns in a row. FC Porto even though being in third in the league, the difference between Porto in third and Benfica in first is three points. The league currently is still up for grabs by either one of the teams, and Porto would relish the opportunity to winning a fourth title in a row. Porto's dominance domestically not only has been evident on the table but also in the transfer market as well. During Porto's three-peat, the dragons were able to acquire Joao Moutinho from rivals Sporting Lisbon. Which before that moment in Portugal, selling a top quality player to a domestic rival was unheard of. Smart business during 2010 made Porto the large club they are today. Even with the departures of Hulk, Falcao, and Moutinho FC Porto still can still find talent with their acquisition of Jackson Martinez, who has been dubbed as the new Falcao.</p>
<p><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Eduardo vs Vitoria.jpg" alt="Eduardo passes off the ball" width="450" height="300" /></p>
<p>The times of strife and hard times has somewhat subsided in the Portuguese Football economy. Sporting Lisbon has returned to their rightful position of contending for the Portuguese title and the taca do Portugal. Their current situation of not competing in Europe should work in the Lions benefit this campaign as not being a distraction away from their domestic goals. As for the eagles of Benfica, their current position in the league is strong and is a positive note, since they had an arid start to the current campaign. The loss of <a title="UEFA Champions League homepage" href="http://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/" target="_blank">Champions League</a> for both Benfica and Porto was a shock but they both were "parachuted" into the <a title="UEFA Europa League homepage" href="http://www.uefa.com/uefaeuropaleague/" target="_blank">Europa League</a>. Which will give both the eagles and dragons a chance for European success. At the possibility of expending their league ambitions, which Sporting will be hoping to occur.</p>
<p><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Danilo vs vitoria.gif" alt="Danilo fends off a tackle" width="425" height="300" /></p>
Gio Franco
2014-01-22T21:31:00Z
Vidal:
Oliver Wilson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Vidal:/301537593576845537.html
2014-01-22T12:11:00Z
2014-01-22T12:11:00Z
Everyone used to want to be 'like Mike', but now everyone wants to be 'like Richard'?<br /><br />It's no way near as catchy but it makes for some very entertaining reading around the sports pages of Europe that's for sure.<br /><br />When Richard Sherman became, seemingly, the angriest man to ever make the Super Bowl, most of us laughed and enjoyed the moment, all except Michael Crabtree that is. We even spoke about it on the <a href="http://worldfootballdaily.com/b/Football-wants-more-like-Sherman/331585059290479768.html" target="_blank">Kick About this week</a>, as we asked for more of football's interviews to be less generic drivel and more WWE sport entertainment (without the steroids and chair shots of course). <br /><br />We asked and we duly received as Frank Ribery came out from behind his third place Ballon d'Or trophy (or possibly the huge pile of silverware he amassed in 2013) to point the finger at FIFA, saying that he deserved to win the the World Player of the Year award for 2013, casting aspersions over the extended voting deadline for the competition and implying that football's world governing body did everything it could to ensure Cristiano Ronaldo took home the big prize.<br /><br />While Ribery may be able to back-up the accusations that FIFA's voting process and results were more ridiculous than putting <a href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-beds-bucks-herts-25824255" target="_blank">a pub on a motorway service station</a> - just ask those Real Madrid and Barcelona stars from FIFA's World XI to pull out their medals from 2013 and you'll see why Ribery feels there should have been more of his fellow teammates alongside him in FIFA's all-star side - we thought that the Frenchman's outspoken word would be a one time moment of outspokenness from a current player, and a moment that just happened to coencide with Sherman's outburst.<br /><br />But no.<br /><br />It seems that another is determined to walk the path of the outspoken athlete, with Juventus' South American midfielder Arturo Vidal putting himself in the spotlight with a Kanye West style, 'greatest player in my position' rant.<br /><br />"I am the best player in the world in my position. That's simply the way it is for me," said the Bianconeri star to <em>Sport Bild</em>.<br /><br />"There are a lot of players out there in my position who try and play just like me and want to copy my style of play.<br /><br />"But it's quite clear for me that I'm the best in my role. Nobody puts in as much defensive work as I do and then scores a lot of goals on top of it as well."<br /><br />Bold words that can be backed up by his fantastic start to this season for the 26-year-old. Vidal has grabbed 15 goals in 28 appearances this season, including 10 league goals this year, propelling Antoni Conte's side well above the trailing pack in the Serie A table.<br /><br />Vidal, though, might want to chose his words carefully because, unlike Ribery, he has very little to look at in terms of a trophy haul from last season.<br /><br />A second successive scudetto with Juve is all he can pull out to compare to Bayern's boasting haul from the last 12-months and, while Serie A provides some of the most entertaining football in Europe, the calibre of opposition around Juve doesn't meet the standard of Dortmund, Barcelona, Real Madrid, Atletico Madrid, Chelsea and others, that La Liga, Bundesliga and Premier League side's have to battle with to make a run at a league title. Juventus have struggled in Europe against Europe's best and, while the club is returning to Europe's elite after a two year absence from the tournament between 2010-2012, they haven't looked like a Champions League title contender. <br /><br />There is no doubt that Vidal is having an incredible season in Serie A and is one of the best midfielders in Italy's top flight, but he's still underperformed when put against a real European test. It doesn't help that Vidal's comments come after a Coppa Italia loss to Roma during which he and his Juventus underperformed on a pretty dismal night for the side from Turin.<br /><br />If a player is to be outspoken, they really need to have crossed the Ts and dotted all the Is before they open up.
Oliver Wilson
2014-01-22T12:11:00Z
Manchester madness as Madrid swoop for Rooney
Oliver Wilson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Manchester-madness-as-Madrid-swoop-for-Rooney/186282735860432408.html
2014-01-22T10:25:00Z
2014-01-22T10:25:00Z
Manchester United have been dragged, kicking and screaming, through this first part of the season thanks to the performances of Wayne Rooney. <br /><br />In David Moyes' second Premier League game of his United reign, against Chelsea at Old Trafford, Rooney appeared to be the only player giving 110% as his teammates wilted around him. His battling performance was highlighted by many as being a long awaited return to form for the Englishman, and his performances continued to peak as the Red Devils bumbled their way through a tough transition to life without Sir Alex.<br /><br />A groin injury over New Year has hampered both United and Rooney over the last few weeks and his absence on the field has been sorely missed, with his side managing just one win in their last five outings in all competitions, but now Rooney looks close to return, after he was seen arriving at the club's training facility this week. <br /><br />But just as soon as they get him back, United could be sending Wayne straight back out the door and onto a flight to Madrid with, according to the British press, Real Madrid wanting to add another former Premier League face to their ranks.<br /><br />With Rooney's deal running out at Old Trafford in 18-months, and an extension looking unlikely, United will be fearful of selling one of their star players to another Premier League rival, especially with Jose Mourinho still keen to bring the 28-year-old to London.<br /><br />Carlo Ancelotti, however, is happy to provide United with a safe route to ship Rooney away from England's top flight and unite him with Cristiano ROnaldo, Gareth Bale and Luka Modric at los Blancos. Despite Karim Benzema getting back to goal scoring form - the Madrid striker has 10 league goals already this season, behind only Ronaldo whose tallied 21 strikes in 19 league appearances - the Italian manager is said to have been very impressed by Rooney this year, both with his ability to stick in the hole behind a striker and to play as an out-and-out forward. Rooney would encourage competition for both Isco and Benzema should he arrive in the Spanish capital.<br /><br />To replace Rooney, United would likely seal up a £40 million move for Chelsea's out of favour midfielder Juan Mata. While Rooney's departure would undoubtedly free up space for Mata to sit in the midfield behind Robin van Persie, it's hard to see the two time Chelsea player of the season making such a splash that Rooney's absence would go unnoticed at United. <br /><br />It would also do very little to pave over the cracks that have been continually pointed out by both fans and pundits alike this season, with Shinji Kagawa surely able to fill the spot that Rooney would vacate behind Robin van Persie, without costing a record transfer fee, especially when that money could be spent on a couple of top class defenders and/or a Paul Scholes replacement in the heart of the pitch. <br /><br />Mata is undoubtedly a world class player and would strengthen any side he joins, but would he be worth the money for Moyes and United?
Oliver Wilson
2014-01-22T10:25:00Z
Out with the Nou, in with the new: The Camp Nou to get a makeover.
Oliver Wilson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Out-with-the-Nou,-in-with-the-new:-The-Camp-Nou-to-get-a-makeover./429384667729915134.html
2014-01-21T11:12:00Z
2014-01-21T11:12:00Z
On Monday night, Barca announced their plan to expand the iconic Camp Nou stadium in the heart of the city, turning the 98,000 capacity stadium into a roof ripping 105,000 seater super structure in order to add to matchday revenue and to modernize the aging arena. <br /><br />At first glance the plans look ambitious and rather impressive. The leveling out of the top tier that soars into the city skyline creates and bowl that looks more impressive than either the Rose Bowl or Big House in the USA, while a new roof (that finally covers every seat in the stadium) and outershell add to the aesthetics of the ground. Inside, fans will enjoy a steeper bottom tier, improving visibility for fans in near the pitch, while those with the money will be able to buy seats in the new executive facilities and 'super boxes' around the ground.<br /><br />As I said, it looks and sounds like a very impressive new development. <br /><br />There would be, however, a slight lump in the throat of any person who has experienced the atmosphere and the character of the ground in it's current format. A ground that is known throughout the footballing and is an iconic symbol of Barcelona football club. <br /><br />Since it's opening in 1957 the Camp Nou (or Estadio del FC Barcelona as it was officially named until 2000) has gone under the stadium surgeons knife twice, in 1995 and 208, seeing new boxes, parking facilities, and a number of other alterations adding a modern look to the aging outer shell. The majority of the ground, however, has barely changed since it's opening day, aside from the addition of the impressive top tier opposite the grounds only covered area, and there is a raw feel to a stadium steeped in history. It's very much a sense of "if these walls could talk."<br /><br />What the new construction will do is add 7000 seats and a commercial gloss to a ground that has never needed it. Currently, the Camp Nou sits in the city like an hold sweater or hoodie that holds the memories that summer you spent by the beach, or still holds the smell of the jungles of Asia from that gap year trip. However many replacement hoodies you buy, you can't beat the one that reminds you of those great moments, especially when the replacement for that filthy old hoody is a glossy new brand top, that may look nice, but doesn't have the history or that emotional attachment to it. <br /><br />Add some super boxes, some new seats and a shiny new roof and shell and you've got a new stadium that can once again host the Champions League final, European Championships and World Cups, but you've also got a hollow ground that hasn't been built for the fans or for the players. It's been built for the commercial aspect, to add another zero on the revenue sheet, and that, combined with looking more and more like a generic modern stadium, takes the edge off what currently is one of the greatest grounds in Europe. <br /><br />We, the fans, love our football history, it's what our love of the game is based on. We love looking back at those great moments, the great teams and the great venues of football's by-gone era, but they are dying fast. <br /><br />It's inevitable that this process will take place, as corporate sponsors continue to dictate what was the World's game, but it doesn't make it any less frustrating or depressing that year after year we're losing some of the most iconic pieces of football imagery in the game.<br />
Oliver Wilson
2014-01-21T11:12:00Z
Football wants more like Sherman
Oliver Wilson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Football-wants-more-like-Sherman/331585059290479768.html
2014-01-21T11:00:00Z
2014-01-21T11:00:00Z
<p>The look on Erin Andrews’ face Sunday night, as Richard Sherman burst into his 60 second rant at the end of the NFC Championship game, was just priceless.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The rolled eyes and almost patronising nod as the Seattle Seahawks cornerback announced that he was “the best corner in the game,” may have been lost on the hawks #25, but all of US saw it, and it was brilliant.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>American sports, particularly the NFL, seem to throw up characters like Sherman every so often. A star through college and a great player in the big leagues, a media spotlight on him since he was 18, it’s hard to imagine not getting carried away by all the constant hype surrounding Sherman, and, in an emotional charged game like the NFC Championship game, it’s no wonder that Richard came off the field feeling more than a little amped.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Twitter, Facebook and most other social media outlets immediately went to town with the interview and still, on Tuesday morning, people are discussing the already classic sport television moment. While most either mocked or berated Sherman for his outburst, I couldn’t help thinking how lucky Erin Andrews, and how great Sherman’s reaction was.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Having spoken to a number of athletes in post-game interviews, I know how drab and dull those things can be. Lines roll out of the interviewees’ mouth with tedious repetition as they talk about the great effort the team put in, how it was a 110% effort, and how they were either unlucky or deserving of the loss or win respectively. Those who are media trained can recite this playbook of ‘how to deal with the media’ almost off by heart, while those without are still able to blurt out the standard lines with relative ease. Unless there’s a good story going on elsewhere around the league or the club, the copy that gets brought out can be a little dry.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>There’s a reason why Jose Mourinho is loved so much by the world’s media. Why those players who aren’t afraid to speak out, such as Roy Keane, are far more interesting to have a chat with compared to a current player/manager. Too often are players forced/encouraged to tow the party line of their clubs rather than opening up after a match. What we, the viewer, listener, the reporter wants are more moments like Sherman’s on Sunday, more players willing to call out their opposite number, to gloat about a big victory, to voice their opinions (much <a href="http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-2542613/Mon-dieu-Ribery-slams-Ronaldos-Ballon-dOr-award-criticises-FIFA-having-Bundesliga-stars-team-year.html" target="_blank">like Frank Ribery this week</a>).</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Erin Andrews had what almost every interviewer at Sky Sports, NBC Sports and national newspapers and radio, has ever dreamt of. A pro athlete blowing his lid on the national stage, and she was the one who got to hold the microphone. That may be one of the biggest moments in her professional career and all she had to do was ask two questions and record his voice. Rather than berating Sherman for doing exactly what we wanted him to do, we should be thanking him, while wishing more of our soccer stars were like him.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>We’re still talking about it today.</p>
Oliver Wilson
2014-01-21T11:00:00Z
Puma Launches New evoPOWER Boot in Barcelona
Rafael Gonzales
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Puma-Launches-New-evoPOWER-Boot-in-Barcelona/-448508265006627709.html
2014-01-17T18:06:00Z
2014-01-17T18:06:00Z
<p>Puma Football launched their latest product in Barcelona, Spain today, their Puma evoPOWER boot. The evoPOWER is a new performance boot designed to enhance a player’s natural kicking ability, while optimizing their power and accuracy.</p>
<p>Puma have been publicly testing the boot around the world through various players and the feedback has been incredibly positive. Even Mario Balotelli preached about the boots’ performance. “I’m new to the Puma family, and the football boots they produce were one of the reasons for me signing the deal. The evoPOWER boot impressed me from the first day I tried it in training, I hadn’t really seen a boot like it before. That Puma say about is true, the flexibility helps create a better contact with the ball and generate really good shooting power.”</p>
<p><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/PUMA_Balotelli_0064.jpg" alt="Mario Balotelli" width="500" /></p>
<p>The natural foot is something that keeps coming up in talks about this boot. Tests were made and the facts prove that the bare foot generates a more powerful kick than a booted foot because of the non-restricted flexibility. Of course, anyone who has played beach soccer or bare-foot footy can tell you, the accuracy with shooting with a naked foot is poor. The evoPOWER has this thing called the Gradual Stability Frame which basically allows the foot to bend freely, getting the boot as close to the biometrics of the bare foot as possible. Plus, this AccuFoam insert that is located on the upper, helps to create a smooth kicking surface to harness all this power generated through the boot.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Cesc Fabregas has been tested these boots out for the past month while playing for Barcelona. “They are so much more flexible; the way they bend with the natural shape of your foot really helps you to shoot harder.”</p>
<p><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Puma_Reus_0134.jpg" alt="Marco Reus of Dortmund" width="500" /></p>
<blockquote>
<p><em>Shooting from distance is a key part of my game, in open play and free kicks. Having a boot that maximizes power in these instances is necessary to help you capitalize on these moments, and this evoPOWER boot gives me a lot of confidence. I like the thought behind it and have tested it a lot. You can feel a genuine difference – so much so, it actually surprised me. This is a very exciting new boot Puma has created.</em></p>
<p><em>- Marco Reus, Dortmund Midfielder and German International</em><span style="font-family: mceinline;"> </span></p>
</blockquote>
<p><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/PUMA_Balotelli_0050.jpg" alt="Puma evoPOWER" width="500" /></p>
<p>The marketing campaign behind this boot has been really fun for the most part. Computer wizards are really having some fun with football stars these days. Check out some of the videos –</p>
<p> </p>
<iframe src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/SyDmsIaGG88" width="560" frameborder="0" height="315"></iframe> <br />
<p>All Puma evoPower products will be available for purchase on February 1, 2014.</p>
Rafael Gonzales
2014-01-17T18:06:00Z
The Puma evoPOWER Test Boot Release
Rafael Gonzales
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/The-Puma-evoPOWER-Test-Boot-Release/441153187277029257.html
2014-01-16T00:56:00Z
2014-01-16T00:56:00Z
<p>Early this month, World Football Daily was sent a press release from <a title="Puma Football" href="http://www.puma.com/football" target="_blank"><strong>Puma</strong></a>, informing us about the release of a new boot model. The Puma evoPOWER is the latest boot from the Sports Brand and is set to be released to the public on January 16<sup>th</sup>. Some of the players you will see testing this boot out are FC Barcelona’s Cesc Fabregas, AC Milan’s <a title="Mario Balotelli" href="http://www.puma.com/football/athletes/mario-balotelli" target="_blank"><strong>Mario Balotelli</strong></a>, and Dortmund’s Marco Reus. The camouflage on this boot is cleverly using the Puma cat logo.</p>
<p>According the boot maker, the evoPOWER “takes its inspiration from the bare footb, with design characteristics that are unrivalled in the football industry.”</p>
<p><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/102998_01_social media_3.jpg" alt="Puma evoPOWER" width="500" /></p>
<p>Of course, the actual details of new features and benefits in this boot are very hush, hush. But World Football Daily is happy to bring you some close looks at the boot from several angles. From the looks of it, this boot seems to be cross between the evoSPEED and the PowerCat boots. For myself (Rafa), I’m very interested to see how this might work out because I enjoy strapping on the PowerCats but am not too fond of the evoSPEEDs. The PowerCats fit my foot great. The striking surface is wonderful; clean and true. In comparison to some of the other performance boots on the market, the PowerCat did feel a little bulky and a little sticky in grass, which is not necessarily a bad thing if you’re defending. The evoSPEEDs just don’t fit my foot really. The design is a little too streamline for me. The boot technology itself is incredible. But unfortunately, that same technology is hard to enjoy when your feet are uncomfortable.</p>
<p><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/102998_01_social media_2.jpg" alt="Puma evoPOWER" width="500" /></p>
<p>WFD is also sensing a little similarity between this boot and the Nike CTR III boot. Again, not necessarily a bad thing here. The Nike CTR III is currently my favorite boot on the market today (again, it’s Rafa), so if the Puma evoPOWER can compete in the price range, there is potential for picking up converts.</p>
<p>Overall, we look forward to testing this boot out when it comes. If you’re a Puma die-hard, you should be excited for the release of this boot. </p>
<p>Check out the rest of the images below.</p>
<p><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/102998_01_social media_5.jpg" alt="Puma evoPOWER" width="500" /></p>
<p><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/102998_01_outsole_3d.jpg" alt="Puma evoPOWER" width="500" /></p>
<p><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/102998_01_overhead_3d.jpg" alt="" width="500" /></p>
<p><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/102998_01_medial_3d.jpg" alt="" width="500" /></p>
<p><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/102998_01_profile_3d.jpg" alt="" width="500" /></p>
<p><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/102998_01_social media_1.jpg" alt="" width="500" /></p>
Rafael Gonzales
2014-01-16T00:56:00Z
A tale of two Manchester's
Gio Franco
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/A-tale-of-two-Manchesters/736175904666973863.html
2014-01-09T22:08:00Z
2014-01-09T22:08:00Z
<p>At times in the past the blue side of Manchester lived in the rather large shadow of the red side. That was the past and today the balance of power in Manchester has clearly shifted to the Citizens. Recent displays from both<a title="Manchester City homepage" href="http://www.mcfc.com/" target="_blank"> Manchester City</a> and <a title="Manchester United homepage" href="http://www.manutd.com/" target="_blank">Manchester United</a> have painted a rather interesting picture. After City's dismantling of <a title="West Ham United homepage" href="http://www.whufc.com/page/Welcome" target="_blank">West Ham United</a> 6-0 at the Etihad in Manchester, City is looking threatening and strong as any first class team in the world. Opposed to the red side, which at this current moment have yet to record a win in the New Year and are in dire need of salvaging their campaign.</p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/City vs West Ham coc1.jpg" alt="Dzecko bags his second goal of the night " width="500" height="300" /></p>
<p>The Red Devils, who are under a transition with a new manager, have yet to record a win in the New Year and their strength at Old Trafford has dissipated. Recent times though one could relish that David Moyes has improved the Red Devils away form. Although Tuesday’s match against <a title="Sunderland AFC homepage" href="http://www.safc.com/" target="_blank">Sunderland</a> at the Stadium of Light depicted the alacrity amongst the United squad in the absence of Wayne Rooney or Robin van Persie. The squad overall could use reinforcement and possibly off-loading some of the excess that are underperforming. There is need for new faces at Old Trafford in the defense and in the midfield. The promise coming from the possible "new English youth" as seemed to fade somewhat. The frustration amongst the United faithful isn’t quite placed on the manager entirely, but mostly with the performance on the field.</p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Utd vs Sunderland coc.jpg" alt="Frustration and dismay on the faces of the United players" width="450" height="300" /></p>
<p>On the other side, the blue side, success is flourishing and at admirable pace. The appointment of Manuel Pelegrini has galvanized the blue side into a treble and possible quadruple winning club this campaign. With their recent investments and acquisitions the citizens are poised to acquire silverware this season. With the likes of Yaya Toure, Alvaro Negredo, Jesus Navas, David Silva, Sergio Aguerro, an endless list of players that are performing "out of their socks" for Manchester City. Wednesday’s match against West Ham United showed the strength, depth, and overall quality of the Citizens this campaign. Another fact to ponder about is that the Etihad has become the new Old Trafford; it has become a fortress for Manchester City. Brushing a side teams left and right with much ease in front of the City faithful has many fans dreaming for the moon.</p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/City vs West Ham coc2.jpg" alt="Yaya Toure grabs his first " width="450" height="300" /></p>
<p>The New Year has swiftly arrived and it has yet to yield anything to the Red Devils. On the other side 2014 has been bountiful for City, their expenditures throughout the years has proven to be well worth their time and money (minus Jovetic, but that’s another discussion.) David Moyes should take note of the lack of drive by a handful of United players and simply the squad currently lacks depth and quality. The eras of Ferguson and Cristiano Ronaldo has simply come to a close, but with every closed door a window opens. The open window though currently has a bright glow from a rather large blue moon. </p>
<p> </p>
Gio Franco
2014-01-09T22:08:00Z
Gunning for Silverware
Gio Franco
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Gunning-for-Silverware/-911617000475631083.html
2014-01-05T20:59:00Z
2014-01-05T20:59:00Z
<p>Nothing is better than waking up early Saturday morning to catch the North London Derby. The battle between <a title="Tottenham Hotspurs homepage" href="http://www.tottenhamhotspur.com/" target="_blank">Tottenham Hotspurs</a> and <a title="Arsenal FC homepage " href="http://www.arsenal.com/home" target="_blank">Arsenal FC</a> rarely fails to entertain, and on this occasion in the <a title="FA Cup homepage" href="http://www.thefa.com/thefacup" target="_blank">FA Cup</a> Arsenal emerged victorious of the two. The proof is there in the score line, literally, 2-0 both goals scored by the Gunners' midfield. Goals scored by Santi Cazorla and Tomas Rosicky and further evidence to Arsene Wenger’s midfield surplus and the possibility taking home silverware this campaign.</p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Arsenal-v-Tottenham-Hotspur-FA-Cup-Third-Round-2988655.jpg" alt="Gnarby stretches out to avoid the tackle from Chiriches" width="350" height="300" /></p>
<p>Tottenham through out the majority of the match couldn't facilitate possession out of their midfield line, leaving a large gap between their forwards and wingers. With those open spaces the Gunners found it to be easy to find their passing lanes and runs. The midfield pairing of Dembele and Bentaleb found themselves both defending deep in their own half of the field. The few hopes Spurs had to even salvaging their FA cup campaign were coming from the exploits of their wingback. Kyle Walker proved to be the only hope for Tottenham in his attempts to get forward and help widen the Arsenal defense. The front pairing of Roberto Soldado and Emmanuel Adebayor proved to be as lackluster and frustrating as accomplishing a new years resolution.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>As for the Arsenal, what more can be said than a possible return of Wenger's master class. The Gunner faithful should of enjoyed every moment of this match, Spurs only looked threatening at a handful of times; courtesy of a stalwart and cohesive midfield line working hard their defensive core. Even without an actual forward player in the line-up, Walcott performed well when he had to hold the ball and facilitate passes to the Arsenal wingers. Gnarby's run and vision was something to admire as he set up Santi Cazorla on his run inside the Spurs box for Arsenal's first goal of the game. A lapse in intelligence was the attribute to Arsenal's second as Tomas Rosicky easily picked the pocket of Danny Rose. The old Czech veteran showed his experience in his ability to rob the young Danny Rose and barreling down on goal to make it 2-0 for the gunners. </p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Arsenal vs Spurs FA Cup 2014.jpg" alt="Monreal tracks Kyle Walker on his run" width="350" height="300" /></p>
<p>In the final minutes of the match Spurs began to finally take the game back to Gunners utilizing Kyle Walker's pace on the wings. But these efforts were too little too late for Tottenham and their FA cup dreams this campaign. In regards to who will claim the FA cup this campaign, Wenger has more than thrown down the gauntlet with brushing a side their rivals. Spurs would do diligence to use the exit from the FA cup as a blessing in order to salvage their league form. Food for thought for the Arsenal faithful, the last time the gunners were at this point in the league, FA cup, and Champions League. It came crashing down on them in the 2007-2008 season, fantastic win but "take it with a grain of salt."</p>
Gio Franco
2014-01-05T20:59:00Z
David's Verdict upon MU's Performance in Champions League
Mary James
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Davids-Verdict-upon-MUs-Performance-in-Champions-League/572519280761725069.html
2013-12-18T17:06:00Z
2013-12-18T17:06:00Z
<p>For the first time since the year 1962, Manchester United was successful to avoid a straight third defeat while playing in their home ground. With a 1-0 victory, the team has found their old pace, but the manager is still grim with their situation and has questions with the team’s performance rate. According to him, the team needs to improve to make it at the top of the Champions league.</p>
<p><strong>Need of Improvement</strong></p>
<p>Manager David Moyes has stated that the improvement will lead the team to progress in the future. The manager had admitted in front of the media that his team did not display their best performance. He further claimed that the team’s performance was same as was witnessed in the previous games where they lost successively two times in a row. The team ultimately shook and started to perform after half time when the manager gave the team players a speech inside the dressing room.</p>
<p><strong>Performance against Shakhtar Donetsk</strong></p>
<p>The team has eventually emerged as winners of the qualifying round while <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2013%E2%80%9314_UEFA_Champions_League">carefully avoiding Barcelona, Real Madrid and Bayern Munich</a>. However, they came at a loss past the quarter finals. Former midfielder of the MU, Roy Keane has mentioned in one of his comments that the team is no longer playing like a team, but seem to be a group of individuals running around the open field.</p>
<p><strong>Manager to the Press</strong></p>
<p>The manager has also said that a person can defend a team when it makes mistakes since there is no team that does not make one or two mistakes. However, in this case, he boldly said that his team has no made mistakes but has failed to tackle and even coming close to the opposing team’s players.</p>
<p>Moyes has mentioned to the press that Manchester united has been a favorite from in the earlier stage, during the month of February. But, he now wants the team to improve to progress through the champion’s league. According to him, the team does have a chance in the tournament with them winning the group match. He further said that teams like MU always play to win the trophy of the tournament.</p>
<p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://farm7.staticflickr.com/6080/6033607140_340809a657.jpg">David Moyes is upset with Ashley Young’s</a> Performance in Last Game</span></strong></p>
<p><img style="float: right; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/ashleyyoungmoyesperformance.jpg" alt="Ashley Young" />The press also got to hear the manager’s opinion of the team’s performance during the game against Shakhtar Donetsk. The first half had the team display one of the worst performances of the team. The team went up to the point, where they gave a lot of opportunities to the opposition team to score a number of goals, which Shakhtar Donetsk failed to achieve at the end.</p>
<p><strong>Points to Note</strong></p>
<p>The Ukrainian team dominated the grounds during the first half and if tried, could have maintained a tie. He further mentioned that he is happy in the end since the team was able to out run others in the group matches after so many opinions were claimed about the manager’s inexperience of handling the champion’s league.</p>
<p><strong>Conclusion</strong></p>
<p>The manager did mention the irresponsible performance of Ashley Young as he did failed two golden opportunities to goal in the first half. He also said that Rio Ferdinand's decision making was not up to the mark during the game, and this would have resulted in a catastrophe and eventually a tie. However, with Manchester United winning the group games, it is time to expect some progressive game and performance from them in the coming future.</p>
<p>Summary: Champion’s League is all set to enter its twelve week. For now, Manchester United has emerged as winners of the group games by winning against Shakhtar Donetsk.</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Author’s Bio:</strong> Mary is efficient writer. She has a vast knowledge up on sports and writes about champion’s league news, <span id="OBJ_PREFIX_DWT453_com_zimbra_url" class="Object"><a href="http://www.2014brazilworldcuptickets.com/packages.php" target="_blank">world cup 2014 ticket packages</a></span> and several other topics. Her writings always contain authentic information.</p>
Mary James
2013-12-18T17:06:00Z
The Evolution of La Liga
Gio Franco
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/The-Evolution-of-La-Liga/431940735367671593.html
2013-12-04T22:17:00Z
2013-12-04T22:17:00Z
<p style="text-align: justify;"><br />Charles Darwin described the concept of "survival of the fittest" best in regards to the term natural selection. Many pundits and critics in the past time and time again have argued the ineptitude of La Liga courtesy of the usual two horse race between Real Madrid and Barcelona. Recent results although point to a completely different story and status for <a title="La Liga homepage" href="http://www.ligabbva.com/" target="_blank">La Liga</a>. After the recent results of week 15, which left <a title="Barcelona homepage" href="http://www.fcbarcelona.com/" target="_blank">Barcelona</a> still, reveling in first place in front of Atletico Madrid only on goal differential, a goal differential of just two. The re-emergence of <a title="Atleti homepage" href="http://en.clubatleticodemadrid.com/" target="_blank">Atletico Madrid</a> to a title contending side under the auspices of Diego Simeone has thrown a monkey wrench into the mix of competition in Spain today.</p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Juanfran v Neymar.jpg" alt="JuanFran puts the challenge on Neymar" width="425" height="300" /></p>
<p>The resurgence of the red and white side of Madrid has been more than just a godsend to the competitive state of Spain. Diego Simeone who was appointed manager of Los Colchoneros in December of 2011 saw immediate success in a little less than two years. Simeone won the Europa League for a second time in a row for Atletico Madrid. Beating <a title="Athletic Bilbao homepage" href="http://www.athletic-club.net/web/main.asp?a=0&b=0&c=0&d=0&idi=2" target="_blank">Athletic Bilbao</a> 3-0 in Bucharest proved to be the stepping block Diego Simeone needed to propel the red and whites back to their former glory. The next match up saw the winner of the Champions League face the winner of the Europa League, <a title="Chelsea FC homepage" href="http://www.chelseafc.com/" target="_blank">Chelsea FC</a> squared off against Los Colchoneros in Monaco for the European Super Cup. Atletico Madrid again enjoyed a thrilling win against the European winners, 4-1. Radamel Falcao was easily noticed as being the Prolithic forward he is netted, a hat trick by the end of the first half. At the start of last years campaign many saw Atleti, as a possible team to push for a third place or fourth place spot in La Liga for a European birth.</p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/costa celebrates goal v real.jpg" alt="Diego Costa has been impressive thus far" width="350" height="300" /></p>
<p>The start of the 2012-2013 season was test for Simeone and his squad of how far they would go in the La Liga table. As a handful of critics predicted Atletico did achieve that third spot in Spain. The Rojiblancos still lost to <a title="Real Madrid homepage" href="http://org.realmadrid.com/cs/Satellite/en/Home.htm" target="_blank">Real Madrid</a> in the league match-ups, but Simeone had one real test in front of him and one trick up his sleeve. The Copa del Rey final, the red and whites faced their rival Real Madrid and it was played at the Santiago Bernabeau. Diego 'Cholo' Simeone was a very well renowned player for Atleti having won the domestic double with Atletico Madrid in 1996 under the auspices of Randomir Antic. Anyone can get Atleti to face his or her fears with Real Madrid it would be Diego Simeone. After what was a thrilling game at the Bernabeau Los Colchoneros emerged victorious after a very tense final 2-1 aet. Winning a piece of silverware for Atletico Madrid was a delight, but the means of how they emerged victorious against Real Madrid in their home stadium made the moment even more memorable.</p>
<p><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Diego-SimeoneAtleti.jpg" alt="Simeone at press conference" width="400" height="300" /> </p>
<p>The tides have changed in La Liga; there no longer is a two-team battle between Real Madrid and Barcelona. A new threat has risen from the shadows of Spanish Capital and the threat shines in brilliant red and white colors. The concept of Darwinism has finally come to fruition in the league in Spain with the emergence of Atletico Madrid. The so-called ineptitude of La Liga should be brushed aside now, as it has now become slowly more competitive. There is nothing to be ashamed of when jumping on the Atleti bandwagon; at times Atleti supporters show a beautiful form of fatalism from a harsh decade in the past.</p>
<p> </p>
Gio Franco
2013-12-04T22:17:00Z
La Vecchia Signora's Trial
Gio Franco
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/La-Vecchia-Signoras-Trial/273056240352593280.html
2013-12-03T02:20:00Z
2013-12-03T02:20:00Z
<p style="text-align: justify;"> </p>
<p>The Old Lady of Italy has evidently placed her looming eyes on their European Campaign. Wednesday evening's display against Copenhagen has jolted the Bianconeri's European hopes, winning 3-1 in Torino. All of Juve's hopes for progressing in the Champions League lie on their match in Istanbul against Galatasaray. <a title="Galatasaray homepage" href="http://www.galatasaray.org/en/" target="_blank">Galatasaray</a> in this match will need to win in order to keep their Champions League dreams from bursting on the last day. <a title="Juventus homepage" href="http://www.juventus.com/juve/en/home" target="_blank">Juventus</a> travel to Turkey knowing they only need a draw to continue their hopes of returning to the Champions League.</p>
<p> <a title="Juventus homepage" href="http://www.juventus.com/juve/en/home" target="_blank"><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Llorente udinese.jpg" alt="Llorente celebrates his game winning goal" width="475" height="300" /></a></p>
<p>The Old Lady finally puts on the show, and it’s the Arturo Vidal Show. Wednesday night's display against <a title="FC copenhagen homepage" href="http://www.fck.dk/english1/" target="_blank">Copenhagen</a> in Italy depicted the Serie A champions we all know from last season. Juventus' 3-1 victory at home in front of their fans was more than just a spectacle. Antonio Conte has proved himself to be quite the astute manager in Italy, and in due time he should show his worth in Europe. Not only can one discuss Conte, but also the Chilean in the midfield for Juventus. Arturo Vidal the man from Chile has more than impressed with his career in Italy. Vidal throughout his tenure at the Old Lady has proved to be a hardworking component in the Juventus midfield.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Even when confronting harsh local rivals, Juventus can still turn to other options in their lineup. The attacking options are limitless, with the likes of Carlos Tevez, Fabio Quagiarella, Fernando Llorente, Mirko Vucinic and Sebastien Giovinco on their roster. Llorente grabbing the lone goal sunday evening at the Stadio Delle Apli has proven to slowly regaining his form he once saw at <a title="Athletic Bilbao homepage" href="http://www.athletic-club.net/web/main.asp?a=0&b=0&c=0&d=0&idi=2" target="_blank">Athletic Bilbao</a>. Sunday evening Juventus found themselves up against a resilient <a title="Udinese homepage" href="http://www.udinese.it/portal/IT/handle/?page=homepage" target="_blank">Udinese</a> side that played out of “their socks”, especially in the defense. But Champions always find a way to win, Juventus found that path with their Basque frontman. Llorente got his head on a ball that was mishit by Lichentsteiner and it was enough to beat Brkic. Also enough for the Old Lady to take all three points from the match-up with a 1-0 win.</p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Juventus-v-Udinese-Andrea-Pirlo_3045004.jpg" alt="Pirlo receiving a knock " width="375" height="300" /></p>
<p>On recent form many would think Juventus would be able to come back from Istanbul with a result. As a result is all they need a draw or win sends the Bianconeri to the next stage in Europe. Entrance to Europe will be harder in the future for who ever takes the second place in group B. Second place will have to face the first place winner of the other groups which would prove to a great undertaking by Antonio Conte and his men.</p>
<p> </p>
Gio Franco
2013-12-03T02:20:00Z
Stevie G Needs Lessons From Paul Scholes
Rafael Gonzales
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Stevie-G-Needs-Lessons-From-Paul-Scholes/-378264795852465965.html
2013-12-02T20:28:00Z
2013-12-02T20:28:00Z
<p>On Monday’s program, we spoke with English football writer Kristan Heneage about all things Premier League football. Although we spent the majority of the time talking about the weekend’s results and AVB blowing up on Neil Ashton, one of the more interesting parts of the discussion circled around the waning career of Steven Gerrard.</p>
<p>We asked the question, “how much longer can you seriously see Steven Gerrard competitively playing Premiership football?”</p>
<p>Where I was a little skeptical of how long the legendary <strong><a title="LFC Online" href="http://www.liverpoolfc.com/welcome-to-liverpool-fc" target="_blank">Liverpool FC</a></strong> midfielder had left in him, Kristan was pretty sure that the veteran had about three to four years left in him, as long as he learns to adapt his game. “Towards the end of Scholes’ career, not every pass was a Premiership pass, but it didn’t always need to be” Kristan said Monday. </p>
<p>The fact is <a title="Gerrard Player Profile" href="http://www.liverpoolfc.com/team/first-team/player/steven-gerrard" target="_self"><strong>Steven Gerrard</strong></a> knows the English game inside-out and if he takes the example of Paul Scholes and even Ryan Giggs (I know, following in the footsteps of a rival?), Gerrard can effectively extend his career and really push out a few more years worth of heroic football for the Kop.</p>
<p><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/gerrard-2.jpg" alt="" width="500" /></p>
<p>The real question is whether or not he will be able to step up with the goals finally drying up from fellow teammate Daniel Sturridge and Luis Suarez. The Reds have depended a great deal on the S&S strike partnership and it’s help to bring them to the top of the table. But now, with Sturridge out with injury and Suarez looking like he needs a bit of help up top, can manager Brendan Rogers find a solution? Or will it all fall on the broad shoulders of the Merseyside champion, Steven Gerrard. </p>
<p>Do you think that Liverpool FC will finish atop the table in the Premier League? Odds are pretty stiff, but check out <a title="888sport" href="http://www.888sport.com" target="_blank"><strong>888sport</strong></a> for more lines and bets to take when it comes to football. And come back to World Football Daily when you want to talk about it.</p>
Rafael Gonzales
2013-12-02T20:28:00Z
The Cream Of The Champions League Rises To The Top
Rafael Gonzales
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/The-Cream-Of-The-Champions-League-Rises-To-The-Top/750253663519979005.html
2013-11-28T04:40:00Z
2013-11-28T04:40:00Z
Match day 5 has come to a close in the <a title="UCL Online" href="http://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/" target="_blank"><strong>UEFA Champions League</strong></a>, but there are still many stories that are left begging to be told. Here are just a few stories we think you should keep an eye on as the Champions League Group Stages come to a close.
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Starting things off in Group A, the real question is who will win the battle for second. Shaktar Donetsk have been regulars in the tournament as of recent and find themselves in second, one point ahead of <a title="Bayer Leverkusen Online" href="http://www.bayer04.de/B04-ENG/en/_site_index.aspx" target="_blank"><strong>Bayer Leverkusen</strong></a>. Donetsk travel to Old Trafford to take on Manchester United who have already qualified for the knock-out round, but will be looking to maintain momentum in a season of ups and downs for the new manager David Moyes. Hard to see Donetsk getting a point, let alone three, and although disappointing to say that Real Sociedad have been, well... disappointing, I just see Bayer Leverkusen having enough to get three points over the poorly performing Spanish club and punch their ticket to the knock out rounds.</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">I'm not a big gambling man, but I could tell you where to start if you want to <a title="bet on champions league" href="http://www.sportsbettingdime.com/" target="_blank"><strong>bet on Champions League</strong></a> football.</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">The other story many football fans are frothing over lands you in the “group of death” - Group D. Bayern Munich are on a record breaking streak of 10 straight wins in Champions League match play. The German club are top of the group, but Manchester City have somehow managed to stay within striking distance, despite being beaten 3-1 by Pep Guardiola's men at the Etihad Stadium. If City can find a way to better the result they suffered at the hands of Bayern Munich in Match Day 2, they would do a service for a large number of football fans around the world who wouldn't mind having someone be a speed bump in the road for the German giants.</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">There are many more stories that are yet to be told in this group stage of the competition. There are countless ways to enjoy the experience as the final group stage match day arrives. We hope you join our daily football chat here, at World Football Daily.</p>
Rafael Gonzales
2013-11-28T04:40:00Z
Champions League Overview part two
Gio Franco
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Champions-League-Overview-part-two/785553441808272466.html
2013-11-12T04:22:00Z
2013-11-12T04:22:00Z
<p>We have passed the midway point of the opening stages of the UEFA champions league group stages, and we continue our look into the current group standings.</p>
<p>The blue side of London found it the more fortunate of the English premier league teams when it came to the draw for the groups. <a title="chelsea fc homepage" href="http://www.chelseafc.com/" target="_blank">Chelsea FC</a> found themselves drawn up against the Swiss giants <a title="Basel homepage" href="http://fcb.ch/Startpage" target="_blank">FC Basel</a>, <a title="Steau Homepage" href="http://www.steauafc.com/en/" target="_blank">Steau Bucharest</a>, and the German side <a title="Schalke homepage" href="http://www.schalke04.de/en/" target="_blank">Schalke</a> in group E. Chelsea currently are on top of the group with nine points and only having one blemish to their european campaign having being defeated at home in London to FC Basel. Both Schalke and Basel have their fates in their hands. Basel will be entertaining Chelsea in the next upcoming fixture and if they can pull a result against the English giants the pressure will be building in-group E. As Schalke will travel to Romania to play against Steau Bucharest, the fates of Schalke, Basel and Chelsea all lie on their performance in the next fixture. Each of their performance and the performance of the other in the opposite fixture will determine who will advance and will not.</p>
<p><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Ivanovic n Szaalai.jpg" alt="" width="350" height="300" /> </p>
<p>At the start of the premier league season, not many thought that <a title="Gunners homepage" href="http://www.arsenal.com/home" target="_blank">Arsenal </a>would contend in the domestic league and none thought they had a chance in the Champions League after seeing the draw they received. The gunners had the pleasure of drawing former French giants <a title="Marseille homepage" href="http://www.om.net/en/home/0/Accueil" target="_blank">Olympique Marseille</a>, last year’s champions league finalist <a title="Dortmund homepage" href="http://www.bvb.de/?_%1B%E4%F4%9D" target="_blank">Borussia Dortmund</a>, and the Napoli the resurgent former Italian giants. The gunners who are enjoying a bright run of form in the premier league are in command of group F with nine points. <a title="Napoli homepage" href="http://www.sscnapoli.it/prehome/html/default.html" target="_blank">Napoli</a> sits in second even with Arsenal on points, but behind the gunners by goal difference. Borussia Dortmund last campaign's runners up to Bayern Munich sit in third place in the group after their defeat to Arsenal in Germany during the week. Dortmund who sit in third with six points need to win their next fixture when they entertain Napoli. As for Marseille for haven't picked up a single point in-group F can benefit from an early exit from the Champions League. Marseille are currently perched in fifth place in Ligue 1, with the likes of PSG and now Monaco contending for the french title there still leaves the third place play-off spot for Ligue 1. Which would be wiser to achieve especially under the current circumstances there is in France with Ligue 1.</p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Ramsey celebrates in Dortmund.jpg" alt="" width="350" height="300" /></p>
<p>As we progress to group G, we see a different scenario unfold. <a title="Atleti homepage" href="http://en.clubatleticodemadrid.com/" target="_blank">Atletico Madrid</a> who many pundits and critics anticipated to struggle in-group G, have been thriving and looking sharp as can be. Los Colchoneros have taken four wins in four and have booked their places into the next round of the champions league. Many have questioned the spirit, the intelligence and guile of Diego Simeone's side coming into this season's campaign. In fact Simeone has this once flat side firing on all cylinders but he has them playing with intelligence and confidence. In the upcoming round of 16 Atleti will find themselves to be feared by a fair amount of the other European giants. The opposition many thought would prove to be a challenge to the Rojiblancos now fights for their european lives. <a title="Zenit homepage" href="http://en.fc-zenit.ru/main/" target="_blank">Zenit St Petersburg</a> who are aloft in second with five points will entertain Atletico Madrid and will be hopeful that Simeone will field a younger team, and Zenit should be able to take advantage of the situation if Diego were to field a weaker squad. A little further down the table for group G is the Portuguese champions <a title="FC Porto homepage" href="http://www.fcporto.pt/english/hp_english.asp" target="_blank">FC Porto</a>. Porto finds themselves sounding the european alarms as they entertain the minnows of the group <a title="Austria Wien homepage" href="http://www.fk-austria.at/TEAM.314.0.html" target="_blank">Austria Wien</a>. Porto need to win their remaining fixtures if they want to keep their european dreams alive, or much like a dream it will disappear from their minds as soon as they wake up.</p>
<p><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Costa celebrates.jpg" alt="" width="350" height="300" /> </p>
<p>Finally we come down to group H, which hosts the entertaining<a title="Barcelona homepage" href="http://www.fcbarcelona.com/" target="_blank"> Barcelona</a>, <a title="AC Milan homepage" href="http://www.acmilan.com/en" target="_blank">AC Milan</a>, <a title="Ajax homepage" href="http://english.ajax.nl/" target="_blank">Ajax</a>, and <a title="Celtic homepage" href="http://www.celticfc.net/" target="_blank">Celtic</a>. The headline from this group really isn’t as much about the dominant Barcelona and the likes of their new signing Neymar and how he will adapt to European football compared to Brazilian. But as many pundits predicted, Barcelona sit a top of the group already qualified for the next round comfortably. The second place spot like all the other groups’ up for grabs, and Ajax and AC Milan look to secure that final spot out of the group stages. Milan travel to Glasgow Scotland to face Celtic, who last year were the upset kings. Defeating Barcelona and taking second place in their group last campaign Celtic turned many heads when talking about the Scottish outfit last season. This time around though, they won't be twisting anyone necks for a view; many have set their sights to Milan with the return of Kaka to the rossoneri. Milan are second in the group with five points, behind them is Ajax with four and Celtic with just one point in four games. If Milan can walk away from scotland with a victory in their next fixture and Barcelona getting a result, the Rossoneri should take the final qualifying spot into the next round of the champions league.</p>
<p> <br /><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Neymar v Abate.jpg" alt="" width="350" height="300" /> </p>
<p> </p>
Gio Franco
2013-11-12T04:22:00Z
WFDs Champions League overview
Gio Franco
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/WFDs-Champions-League-overview/395748921502829735.html
2013-11-07T23:22:00Z
2013-11-07T23:22:00Z
<p>We are past the half waypoint in the Champions League group stage and one can start to observe the teams to beat and the teams that are sputtering. Several teams have already secured their position in the next round of the champion’s league. Looking into each group and their games, one can easily paint a picture each team can contribute to the drama of the UEFA champion’s league. Bayern Munich, Manchester City, Barcelona, and Atletico Madrid have secured spots in the knockout round of the champion’s league. With them Real Madrid, and Paris Saint Germain would only need a result in their upcoming fixture to book their places into the knock-out stage. Each group, in particular group F, have been building up to the final games of the group stages.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Group A hosts the <a title="Manchester United homepage" href="http://www.manutd.com/" target="_blank">Manchester United</a>, <a title="Shakhtar Donetsk homepage" href="http://shakhtar.com/en/" target="_blank">Shakhtar Donetsk</a>, <a title="Real Sociedad homepage" href="http://www.realsociedad.com/" target="_blank">Real Sociedad</a>, and <a title="Bayern Leverkusen homepage" href="http://www.bayer04.de/B04-ENG/en/_site_index.aspx" target="_blank">Bayern Leverkusen</a>. In fact this group poses a strong set of opposition for Manchester United, especially in a year in transition from Sir Alex Ferguson to David Moyes at the helm of the club. In the current standing Manchester United sit in first with eight points and two games in hand (one going to Leverkusen in Germany). Bayern Leverkusen sits in second a point behind United (7) and Shakhtar in third are two points Leverkusen (5) all have equal opportunity to progress to the next round. Although both Shakhtar and Leverkusen have to face United, Leverkusen have the better opportunity to gain the result they need since they will be entertaining Manchester United in the next upcoming fixture on the 27<sup>th</sup> of November. All is not lost either for the Ukrainians as they will entertain the lowly Sociedad (who sit in last in the group with one point), if Shakhtar can defeat Sociedad at home, their fate in the group will lie in the next fixture and on the result from both matches.</p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Marouane_Fellaini in spain.jpg" alt="Fellaini being sent off against Real Sociedad" width="350" height="300" /></p>
<p>In Group B we see one easily foreseeable pick to progress in the group, but for many who follow Serie A will be disappointed with the current performance by the bianconeri. <a title="Juventus homepage" href="http://www.juventus.com/juve/en/home" target="_blank">Juventus</a> the current defending Serie A champions sit in the bottom of group B with three points in four games. Its crisis mode in Torino Italy as Juventus needs to win their last two games to keep their dreams for European glory alive. The bianconeri will entertain <a title="FC Copenhagen homepage" href="http://www.fck.dk/english1/" target="_blank">Copenhagen</a> in the next fixture but could endure a trip to "hell" when they face <a title="Galatasaray homepage" href="http://www.galatasaray.org/en/" target="_blank">Galatasaray</a> in Istanbul on the final day of the group. <a title="Real Madrid homepage" href="http://www.realmadrid.com/cs/Satellite/en/Home.htm" target="_blank">Real Madrid</a> currently is in first in the group and will seal their place in the round of 16 with a result against Galatasaray in Madrid, which on paper and pedigree should be assured.</p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Pogba Cr7 torino.jpg" alt="Pogba and CR7 contend for possession" width="350" height="300" /></p>
<p>Looking into group C <a title="PSG homepage" href="http://www.psg.fr/en/Accueil/0/Home" target="_blank">Paris Saint Germain</a> are just a draw or victory away from solidifying their place in the next round of the champion’s league. <a title="Benfica homepage" href="http://www.slbenfica.pt/en-us/home.aspx" target="_blank">Benfica</a> the once Portuguese giants have hit a few stumbling blocks in both the champions league and in Liga Sagres, and early in the week the eagles endured a harsh lost in Athens to <a title="Olympiakos homepage" href="http://www.olympiacos.org/en" target="_blank">Olympiakos</a>. Much like Shakhtar in group A Benfica's fate doesn't rest solely in their hands, the eagles have to win their remaining fixtures and hope that a certain scenario will unfold in the other two matches. Paris Saint Germain is handily in the driving seat in-group C needing only a result at home to Olympiakos. In light of the hopes of the Benfica faithful many will hope that the Parisians will comfortably dispatch Olympiakos in Paris later in November.</p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/olympiacos-benfica Konstantinos Manolas.jpg" alt="Konstantinos Manolas scores the lone goal" width="350" height="300" /></p>
<p>The results from group D painted a completely different picture from the first three groups. In fact we already have the two winners of the group to progress into the knockout round of 16, <a title="Bayern Munich homepage" href="http://www.fcbayern.telekom.de/en/" target="_blank">Bayern Munich</a> and <a title="Manchester City homepage" href="http://www.mcfc.com/" target="_blank">Manchester City</a>. The only question that remains of the group is who will take the third place position in the group. Third place of group stages of the champions league "parachute" into the Europa League competition, which is a quality competition but not as economically inclined as compared to Champions league. <a title="CSKA Moscow homepage" href="http://pfc-cska.com/">CSKA Moscow</a> is indulged with having the upper hand between them and <a title="Victoria Plzen homepage" href="http://www.fcviktoria.cz/en/" target="_blank">Victoria Plzen</a>. CSKA in the next fixture will entertain Munich hoping the Germans will send out younger and more vulnerable squad, the Russians will hope to capitalize on the possibility.</p>
<p><em><strong><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Honda challenging Yaya in City.jpg" alt="Honda challenging Yaya for the ball" width="350" height="300" /><br /><br />To be Continued groups E-H</strong></em></p>
Gio Franco
2013-11-07T23:22:00Z
Crafty Galalxy take first leg
Gio Franco
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Crafty-Galalxy-take-first-leg/367043555976630342.html
2013-11-05T07:58:00Z
2013-11-05T07:58:00Z
<p>Few words could describe the Galaxy’s performance less than the quintessential saying “sh*t happens” as Bruce Arena so lightly put it in the post game press conference. The point being that the Galaxy should of capitalized more than what the final score of the first leg depicted. The evening began with Bruce Arena fielding a traditional 4-4-2 to Jason Kries’ pragmatic 4-5-1. When the match began the Galaxy were enjoying majority of possession of the ball from the start of the first half. Although the possession the Galaxy held only created a handful of decent opportunities. Salt Lake on the other hand found it difficult to hold possession of the ball in the first half. Even though they did manage to sally forth when they did have possession to apply pressure on the Galaxy’s goal.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>At half time going into the break the same way as the game started, the home side were unlucky to grab the lead after an attempt hit wide in the opening 20 minutes by Donovan. Once the game recommenced it did not take long for the first blood to be drawn. Three minutes after the restart Keane laid off a pass for Sean Franklin outside the 18-yard box. Sean Franklin took the pass first time and smashed the ball into the back of Nick Rimando’s goal for the Galaxy to take the lead in the 48<sup>th</sup> minute.After Franklin’s goal Kries needed to restructure his formation on the field, his decision to bring on Robbie Findley for Yordany Alvarez gave Salt Lake another attacking option on the pitch. Slowly with the extra space in the middle of the field <a title="Real Salt Lake homepage" href="http://www.realsaltlake.com/" target="_blank">Real Salt Lake</a> began to enjoy possession of the ball more. In the dying moments of the match Real Salt Lake look threatening, with their extra attacking threat and more space in the middle of the field for them to maneuver the ball.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>But much to Jason Kries’ chagrin Real Salt Lake couldn’t find an away goal at the Stub Hub Center. The Galaxy will take their 1-0 advantage to Salt Lake City thursday night in hopes to advance further in the MLS cup. There are a positive or two for Real Salt Lake when they take on the Galaxy in the second leg of the Western Conference semi-finals at the Rio Tinto in Utah. The deficit going into the second leg for Real is only one goal, Real would relish an opportunity to defeat the Galaxy in front of their home fans. That being said, if the <a title="LA Galaxy homepage" href="http://www.lagalaxy.com/" target="_blank">Los Angeles Galaxy</a> were to go to Salt Lake City and score at the Rio Tinto stadium it would only make the situation a harsh challenge for Real Salt Lake. </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p><em>Photography accredited to Angelica Orozco</em></p>
Gio Franco
2013-11-05T07:58:00Z
Puma levels the playing field
Gio Franco
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Puma-levels-the-playing-field/82233511767782934.html
2013-10-16T20:26:00Z
2013-10-16T20:26:00Z
<p>When it comes to shopping and finding a perfect pair of cleats for one to play football in, it’s difficult to see past the heavy advertisements from Nike and Adidas. Two strong companies, much like la liga today, have plagued the current market out there for players when it comes to selecting a boot. It has been Puma month here at world football daily, and we had the opportunity to out both the <a title="puma king homepage" href="http://www.puma.com/football/products/king-fg" target="_blank">Puma Kings</a> and <a title="Puma powercat homepage" href="http://www.puma.com/football/products/powercat-1-fg" target="_blank">Powercats</a>. </p>
<p> </p>
<p>Some footballers have pet peeves, our first touch must be spot on, and our strike must have a clean follow through or simply is it comfortable to run in. When trying on the Puma Kings at first the immediate observation is that these boots were very comfortable. Playing in these boots were also something else, the first touch on these shoes are sublime and finding the sweet spot to strike the ball is very clean, it just feels natural. The only side note to these shoes are the following, if you have the genetics that gifted you a wide foot, particularly near the arch. The shoe was evidently designed for those with a narrow foot, but still a quality boot to have in one's arsenal.</p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/P kings.jpg" alt="" width="350" height="350" /></p>
<p>Contrast to the Kings specifics to accommodate the needs of players with narrow feet, the Powercats remedies the situation immediately. Puma Powercats from earlier years have boasted an attribute to be a shoe of strength. Constructing a boot to be strong is tough; a strong shoe usually has an immediate insinuation of being heavy. The latest Powercats however are just slightly heavier than its counterpart in the Kings. The first touch with these boots is impeccable at times it feels that the ball just sticks to one's feet. The Powercats also not only are extremely comfortable but the K-leather the boots are designed with make the shoe very adaptable to one's feet. Another note for players who have a fairly wide foot, the powercats are your boot, the leather and sole of the shoe make it easily accommodating to those with wide feet.</p>
<p><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/powercats.jpg" alt="powercat" width="350" height="350" /> </p>
<p>When searching for that specific boot, we all look for certain qualities to the shoe. But unlike the saying "if the shoe fits" when it comes to finding a new pair of boots, it’s not all about the boot just fitting. Every player has a special set of feet whether they are wide or narrow, big or small. Each player not only has special feet but they also have certain qualities each footballer looks for to better enhance their game. <a title="puma football webpage" href="http://www.puma.com/football" target="_blank">Puma</a> not only offers a third party option to what appears to be a two company saturated market but they compete with the quality of boot.</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
Gio Franco
2013-10-16T20:26:00Z
Western Conference heats up
Gio Franco
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Western-Conference-heats-up/594011266300361559.html
2013-10-09T19:32:00Z
2013-10-09T19:32:00Z
<p>The stakes have been raised and tensions are high, as the race for the final spots in the MLS cup play-offs. The <a title="Galaxy Homepage" href="http://www.lagalaxy.com/" target="_blank">Los Angeles Galaxy</a> and the <a title="Rapids homepage" href="http://www.coloradorapids.com/" target="_blank">Colorado Rapids</a> both asserted themselves for the play-off spots over the weekend. The Rapids were hosting the second place team in the western conference, <a title="Sounders homepage" href="http://www.soundersfc.com/" target="_blank">Seattle Sounders</a>. Saturday evening many attested to the strength the Rapids exhibited against a very reputable foe. Los Angeles Galaxy not only showed innovation in attack but their competence in defense.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Saturday night saw many games played throughout the MLS, but none stood out more than the erosion of the Sounders’ at Colorado. The fact that it took less than 20 seconds for the Rapids’ to find the breakthrough against Seattle indicates their capability of scoring. All through out the matches, Seattle found themselves dominating the possession of the ball. In a span of 11 minutes they were chasing the game at 0-2. Which could only prove that even with retaining possession of the ball throughout the majority of the game doesn’t factor into the game until one makes opportunities out of the possession. Granted not to discredit Seattle too much, they indeed created opportunities but found them beaten by the post and by Rapid’s keeper Clint Irwin.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Sunday afternoon in Carson witnessed the Los Angeles Classico, as the Galaxy took on their local rivals <a title="Chivas USA homepage" href="http://www.cdchivasusa.com/" target="_blank">Chivas USA</a>. The Rapid’s home display had to be on the minds of the Galaxy players as they began to run rampant on the goats. The breakthrough was quick in the sixth minute Zardes sent in a cross that was met by an unmarked Donovan to square it back for the run of Keane. The Galaxy would go ahead by two 21 minutes from kickoff, when Zardes again running at the red and whites right back whipped in another low cross. Again an unmarked Landon Donovan latched onto Gyasi pass and easily tapped the ball into the back of the net. The rout was official five minutes after the second goal. Zardes found the back of the net as the build up play stumbled in the Chivas box, and the ball found its way to Gyasi’s feet and he banged it into the net.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The results at the weekend for both Colorado and Los Angeles were ideal in solidifying a play-off spot in the post season. The Rapids victory at home over an established opponent (Seattle Sounders) 5-1, creates a statement that the rapids will not let up in their final three games of the season. Credit to the Sounders, they dominated possession and created opportunities but they only managed to score once. The Galaxy although were playing against an opponent that have endured a woeful season in the MLS, they still exhibited an attacking prowess that has to be marveled by many. Zardes’ display on the left flank in the midfield proved to be a perfect position for the young winger. With Gyasi’s display Sunday, the Galaxy have another attacking option to place out on the pitch when encountering a team that leaves a lot of space in the middle of the field.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The Western Conference continues to heat up as Colorado and Los Angeles stay on track to lock up a play-off spot. Both also can’t afford a slip up in the final stages of the season, as San Jose and Vancouver are breathing down their backsides. The upcoming fixtures during the international break will prove to be crucial for all these teams, if they plan to make the MLS cup play-offs this year. </p>
<p><br /><em>Photo credit to Ali Gilmore and Prost Amerika</em></p>
Gio Franco
2013-10-09T19:32:00Z
Bring Back The Iconic Advert
Oliver Wilson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Bring-Back-The-Iconic-Advert/-403679858049540763.html
2013-10-03T23:22:00Z
2013-10-03T23:22:00Z
<p>You may have noticed this week that World Football Daily’s twitter feed was posting some of the greatest football adverts from the last 20 –years or so. </p>
<p> </p>
<p>That’s right, it’s been almost 20-years since Eric Cantona brought Ronaldo’s lofted ball under control, turned up his collar and said those immortal words, “<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UBODWlCdZW4">Au revoir</a>.”</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Since then we have been lucky enough to see Nike (and on occasion Adidas) produce some of the most enthralling 90-second commercials football fans have ever enjoyed.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>We’ve watched as the 1998 Brazil side slinked and stepovered it’s way through the airport, only to see Ronaldo curl the culminating strike of his teammate’s hard work off the post of the airports makeshift goal. </p>
<p> </p>
<p>We were overjoyed to see Gus Hiddink telling a minivan full of stars that retrieving a football back from a hoard of, presumably, evil robots was of the upmost importance because the ball was, “rounded” at the start of ‘<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5t_fJCOVyN8">The Mission’</a>.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>If Gus had been so desperate to reclaim said ball, he should have thought about the problems of sending in a long haired, dreadlock sporting, Edgar Davids to break past the security field around the ball, thus turning the seemingly simple mission into a all at war with their metallic adversaries before a last launch to a waiting helicopter flung Oliver Bierhoff and the Dutchman to safety. Whether the other heroes of that trip also made it out of the robotic lair alive before it exploded into smithereens is another question but maybe we’re just thinking about it too much here.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>We were talking at the water cooler or in the school yard for hours about the <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7zlX0Sm65zA">3-on-3 all-star tournament on the ship</a> in international waters with Cantona making his triumphant return – one can only presume he checked if there were any seagulls following his vessel as the ship left port – as the ringmaster of the caged contest that saw the likes of Figo, Ronaldo and Roberto Carlos taking on Javier Saviola, Fredrik Ljungberg and Luis Enrique – one always felt sorry for a young Tomas Rosicky who was joined on team <em>Tutto</em> <em>Bene</em> by Fabio Cannavaro and Rio Ferdinand. I think we all know who was being leaned on to provide a moment of magic in that side. We should also spare a moment for Seol Ki-Hyeon, formerly of Wolverhampton Wanderers and Fulham who played on a side with Denilson and Ronaldinho and, as a result, barely made his face into the advert. We had to look up the team lists to work out who was the mythical third party in team <em>Funk Soul Brothers.</em></p>
<p><em> </em></p>
<p>Football adverts even once tried to reclaim the beautiful game back for the fans as Nike launched their <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=krenRc91aE0">Joga Bonito YouTube</a> station and advert campaign. Here, Cantona and a bunch of football guerrilla cameramen, producers and lighting technicians took over television studios in order to broadcast their idealistic football message to the world as they looked to reclaim it back from the divers, cheats and money men who had turned our beloved game into a bitter world where conmen and cheats thrived – who knew that the freelancers of these worlds were so willing to be involved in such bold and extreme broadcast tactics to advertise both this message and their work.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Joga Bonito, though, was the last football advertising campaign that captivated both fans of the sport and those who just happened to catch the advert during breaks of American Idol or Coronation Street. Few discussed in the same way, the <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tc3PZ3Im5aQ">Point of View advert</a> that implied that the viewer was a player progressing through the ranks of the game taking on Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Ronaldinho and Cristiano Ronaldo before finally earning a spot in the Dutch national side and lining up a free-kick from the edge of the area before a cut to black.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The advert was nice, but it didn’t have you on the edge of your seat wondering what was coming next. It didn’t feel real, the tricks you saw players performing looked like – and most probably were – shot on green screen or used CGI footage. When Ronaldinho performed the ‘flip-flap’ trick before being scythed down by the referee in the ‘<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F2q7703-IFg">Brazil v Portugal’</a> advert it was real and we all went and tried it out down the park or in the school playground the next day. The modern day adverts just don’t cut it and it’s a real loss after we were given so many years – and hours on YouTube - of riveting television advertisements.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Football fans genuinely miss these dazzling masterpieces of advertising genius and it’s high time Nike, Adidas or someone else produced another.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Imagine the scene.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The Maracana in the modern era. </p>
<p> </p>
<p>Out steps a team of young stars of the modern game. Jack Wilshere, Neymar, Messi etc are lined up for a pre-season charity game when suddenly from the touchline a voice is overheard saying, “These youngsters don’t have the same drive as we did back in our day.”</p>
<p> </p>
<p>It’s Davids and he’s talking to Pep who nods his head in agreement. There’s a scornful look from Messi and Neymar as the two Barca players laugh off the ‘old men’s’ comments before exclaiming that “Who guys couldn’t beat us in your prime, let alone now.”</p>
<p> </p>
<p>From nowhere steps Henry, Totti, Denilson, Ronaldo (R9 not CR7) Maldini and some of the elder statesmen of the Nike adverts from the past. A quick camera twirl and suddenly the old guard are in kit and lined up against the young guns. The fans are off their seats in the stadium…….this is going to be one hell of a show. The play kicks off (Collina is the referee of course) and both sides take it in turn to dazzle the other with tricks and flicks. Magical passing, flying free-kicks, and thunderous volleys are combined with crunching, but fair, challenges and incredible saves. This is all-star football.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The teams go into extra time and still can’t be separated after 120 minutes. The tone of the match has turned from heated competition - with both sides desperate to show that they’re the kings of the castle - to fun respectful entertainment with the two sides putting their competitive edge’s aside to just enjoy and revere what the other is capable of producing.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>As the teams discuss who is going to take the penalties there’s a whistle off screen. The camera pans to the stadium tunnel where stood, holding a ball, is Cantona with a host of iconic legends from the 80’s and 70’s with him. He call’s out, “Winner stays on no?” causing both Messi and Henry to look at one another with a slightly fearful look before a wry smile creeps across their faces.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The screen flashes to black and the slogan ‘Respect the past. Play for the now. Grow for the future.’ flashes up before finishing with the Nike tick.</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p>That, I pray, will be on my television screen in a month or so rather than the usual gambling, loans, injury lawyers and medical treatment adverts that plague the small screen day after day.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Please, someone, bring back the football advert.</p>
Oliver Wilson
2013-10-03T23:22:00Z
Wondo's strike shakes up Chivas USA
Gio Franco
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Wondos-strike-shakes-up-Chivas-USA/-647233438488363926.html
2013-10-01T04:50:00Z
2013-10-01T04:50:00Z
<p>San Jose displayed Sunday night why they were the team to beat last season with their talisman Chris Wondolowski. Both teams at the start of the first half were showing valiant probing efforts on the opposing goals. Cordell Cato snuffed a chivas build up play with an intelligent step to take Alvarez pass in the ninth minute but the counter was fruitless. The Chivas USA midfield appeared a little slow to maintain possession with their five man midfield setup. Mejia in the opening 17 minutes looked a step behind the link up play for the goats; he found it hard to establish himself throughout the match. Shea Salinas created a quality effort attacking the Chivas box but is tackled out for a San Jose corner by de Luna in the 25th minute. Minda found his place in the game breaking down the San Jose Midfield and countering with de la Fuente on the left wing. De la Fuente's cross was met by 'Cubo' Torres to chest it down for Alvarez to send it high in the 28th minute. Minda achieved the first caution on the night in the 31st minute for a tackle on Wondolowski. Purdy had a stalwart night with his ability to contain Lenhart. Steve Purdy unfortunately picked up an injury and came off in the 40th minute for Jaime Frias. Lenhart the culprit for the injury to Purdy was awarded with a yellow before going into the break.</p>
<p> At the start of the 2nd half, the fiery Lenhart had a goal called back for an offensive foul on de Luna. The second sub of the evening came again from the home side; Eric Avila made way for attacking Matthew Fondy in the 52nd minute. Fondy had an immediate impact, even though his header went straight to Busch’s hands in the 53<sup>rd</sup> minute. Fondy showed an extra attacking presence to the match, as he took on Jordan stewart with an intelligent through ball for himself to run onto to square away for de la Fuente to flash wide of the far post. Shea Salinas came close in the 68th minute, the ball fell to him inside the box and he dispatches his effort high over the bar. Kennedy was also cautioned; referee Rivero issued Kennedy a yellow for time wasting in the 69th minute. San Jose made their 2nd sub of the night Salinas made way for Marvin Chavez to come on and Chivas made their final sub of the evening; Tristan Bowen came on for Alvarez both in the 70th minute. The Earthquakes made their third and final sub of the night; Baca comes off for Alan Gordon. </p>
<p>Things got a little heated in the Chivas box, as Lenhart tackles Kennedy after the whistle was blown. The Chivas players were quick to approach Lenhart and tempers flaired up temporarily. Lenhart was eventually shown his second yellow of the night and was given his walking papers for the challenge on Kennedy. The extra man advantage enticed the goats to charge on. San Jose broke the deadlock with 10 men, Chris Wondolowski pounced on a parried effort from Kennedy after making a save from Alan Gordon’s attempt. Final sub of the night for San Jose, Walter Martinez comes on for Cordell Cato in the 89th minute. Chivas in the final minutes began throwing everything but the kitchen sink at the Earthquakes, trying to find the equalizer. At the end San Jose emerged victorious and Chivas found themselves foundering despite the numerical advantage. The Earthquakes didn't falter after the sending off of Lenhart. Regards to Chivas USA they again find themselves at a lost even after their side was awarded with an extra pair of legs. With these three points the Earthquakes will use them as a possible springboard into the play-offs, depending on the last results in the coming future. </p>
<p> </p>
<p><em><br /></em></p>
Gio Franco
2013-10-01T04:50:00Z
New designated player for Seattle?
Gio Franco
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/New-designated-player-for-Seattle/511131701110604835.html
2013-09-26T03:46:00Z
2013-09-26T03:46:00Z
<p> </p>
<p>John Malkovich said it best in the movie Rounders, “pay that man his money,” regarding the question surrounding Eddie Johnson and the Seattle Sounders, making him a designated player. The <a title="Sounders homepage" href="http://www.soundersfc.com/" target="_blank">Sounder’s</a> forward time and time again has proven to be a deciding factor and crucial cog in Seattle’s attacking line. The tall American forward leads the Sounder’s scoring list with only eight goals. Although Johnson’s tally is miniscule to <a title="Impact's homepage" href="http://www.impactmontreal.com/en/" target="_blank">Montreal’s</a> Marco di Vaio who sits on 18 goals, but Eddie has a tendency to hit his goals on the pivotal games. Saturday night in Carson California was no different for the Seattle number seven.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Saturday evening at Stub Hub was the venue many were hoping to see the duel of American soccer heroes, Landon Donovan against Clint Dempsey. Instead many saw another light, the illuminating play from Eddie Johnson soon overshadowed the lack of Landon and Clint. Johnson’s fitness is at a high point in which makes it a nuisance for a defender to muscle him off the ball as the <a title="Galaxy homepage" href="http://www.lagalaxy.com/" target="_blank">Los Angeles Galaxy</a> found. Another aspect to Eddie’s game has been his aerial presence on set pieces. In fact the deadlock Saturday night was broken from a corner in the 25<sup>th</sup> minute. Eddie Johnson was able to lose his mark (Omar Gonzalez another DP player) in the box, rise up to the ball and send his header into the bottom of the near post.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>As questions rise on the contract for Eddie Johnson, if it should be extended, should he become a designated player? Ej is not only a physical player, an aerial threat, but he also is intelligent on the pitch. Johnson’s knowledge of the run of play on the field and at set pieces led to his goal on Saturday night, his ability to beat an opponent to the ball in the air was proof as he was able to beat Omar Gonzalez for the Sounder’s goal. As opposed to some people here at World Football Daily, who thinks, “The sounders are soft,” there lies a player in Seattle who is far from soft. Eddie Johnson depicts the perfect match of fitness and intelligence, both home and away, and will be a massive threat to the other teams going into the coming MLS play-offs. <br /><br /> </p>
<p><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/EJ LA picture.jpg" alt="photography credit to Angelica Orozco" width="350" height="435" /><br /><em>Photography credit to Angelica Orozco</em></p>
Gio Franco
2013-09-26T03:46:00Z
Sporting's aspirations are discernible
Gio Franco
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Sportings-aspirations-are-discernible/-878774893452004554.html
2013-09-20T13:18:00Z
2013-09-20T13:18:00Z
<p> </p>
<p><a title="Liga Sagres homepage" href="http://www.ligaportugal.pt/" target="_blank">Liga Sagres</a> returned on the weekend like the rest of the leagues in Europe. Sporting returned from the international break to the Liga with out a hitch. The Leoes traveled south to Olhanense in the Portuguese region of Algarve. The match Sunday saw Sporting control the game from the get-go, although it took the green and whites 51 minutes to find the breakthrough. The go-ahead goal for Sporting came from the man who leads the goal tally in Portugal and is on loan from the Seattle Sounders, Fredy Montero.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The Lion’s forward has found the net six times in four matches, making him on course to win the Bota de Prata (silver ball). Fredy’s recent performance against Olhanense and his display in the match with Benfica, has depicted Montero’s many talents on the pitch. His movement off the ball is a factor to marvel, in fact it attributed to his goal against Benfica in the Lisbon derby at the Estadio Avalade. Another surprising feature to Montero’s game has been his ability “to be at the right place at the right time.” The match against Arouca many witnessed his luck, with Sporting’s fifth goal and Fredy’s third on the night, after he lobbed the ball over the defense and smashed the ball home through the hands of Igor Stefanovic.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><a title="Sporting Lisbon homepage" href="http://www.sporting.pt/english/english_hp.asp" target="_blank">Sporting Lisbon</a> now sits in second place behind to rivals <a title="FC Porto homepage" href="http://www.fcporto.pt/english/hp_english.asp" target="_blank">FC Porto</a> by two points. Porto who have enjoyed a perfect start to the season with four wins in four games, appear to be eager and willing to defend their title. Although both <a title="SL Benfica homepage" href="http://www.slbenfica.pt/en-us/home.aspx" target="_blank">Benfica</a> and Porto will be slightly distracted with their campaigns in the Champions League this year. Should give the Leoes a boost in concentration in an attempt to challenge Porto and Benfica for the Liga Sagres title. Sporting and Porto have an extra aid with having their attacking players on form, for Sporting Fredy Montero and at Porto another Colombian Jackson Martinez. Both players will be crucial to each respected sides campaign for domestic success this year.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>This upcoming weekend will be key to Sporting and Porto. Porto travel across Lisbon to Estoril and Sporting entertain Rio at the Avalade. The first real test for Porto, after their victory in Vienna in the Champions League on Wednesday the objective will be to attain three points on the road after a trip to Austria. Sporting would relish the opportunity to possibly overtake Porto if Estoril can attain a result against the dragons. Sporting this campaign does not have a European front to distract them from the objective this season, returning to the upper echelon of Portuguese football. </p>
<p> </p>
Gio Franco
2013-09-20T13:18:00Z
Macronutrients: A Guide for Football Players
Lisa Holden
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Macronutrients:-A-Guide-for-Football-Players/-277080852212926258.html
2013-09-18T22:15:00Z
2013-09-18T22:15:00Z
<p>No matter whether it’s the day of a game, or the off-season, it’s important to watch what you eat, to make sure you’re getting <span id="OBJ_PREFIX_DWT161_com_zimbra_url" class="Object"><a href="http://worldfootballdaily.com/b/Sports-Nutrition-for-Soccer-Players/287202167971353567.html" target="_blank">the nutrients you need</a></span> in the right proportions. Macro-nutrients are the big three, the ones that you need in the greatest amounts: carbohydrates, protein, and fat. For football players, the number one macro-nutrient is carbohydrate; it’s what gives you the long-lasting energy you need to play at peak performance over the length of an entire game.</p>
<p><strong>Complex Carbs for Long-Lasting Energy</strong></p>
<p>While many people don’t necessarily think of football as an endurance sport like marathon-running or the Tour de France, it does fit the description; endurance sports are those that require you to perform for an extended period of time at low to moderate exercise intensity. Complex carbohydrates are the body’s primary source of fuel, and are also the best source of energy for an endurance athlete. Whether or not you consider football an endurance sport, carbs are number one for football players too.</p>
<p>There’s a very simple reason for this: the body can use all three macro-nutrients as fuel sources, but the process by which the body converts stored energy into a usable form is fastest and most efficient when the stored energy is carbohydrates. In addition, carbs are stored as glycogen in the liver and muscles, and high dietary intake of carbohydrate ensures these stores are there when needed. When you start exercising, your muscle stores of glycogen are depleted first, since they are already present in the muscles. As those stores are exhausted, the liver begins to release more of its stored supply of glycogen to refuel the muscles. If you don’t have those stores in the first place, you end up fatigued in the middle of your training session, or worse, in the middle of a game. </p>
<p>In most situations, complex carbohydrates—vegetables, fruits, and whole grains—are the best carb sources to choose, as they contain fiber that slows down digestion, which makes that energy last longer and prevents blood sugar spiking. Simple carbohydrates like sugar, on the other hand, might be good for a quick energy fix, but within an hour your blood sugar has spiked and crashed, typically resulting in fatigue.</p>
<p><strong>Protein and Fat are Important Too</strong></p>
<p>Carbohydrates should be the bulk of what you eat in training season, but there’s more to a balanced diet than keeping your carb intake high. Don’t forget, in the midst of carb-loading, you must still ensure that you’re getting plenty of lean protein and healthy fats. Protein and fat, while they don’t give you the long-lasting energy that carbohydrates do, are a back-up energy source when carbohydrate stores run low. They’re necessary for good general health, as well as a strong immune system, healing injuries, organ function, and healthy bones, skin, <span id="OBJ_PREFIX_DWT162_com_zimbra_url" class="Object"><a href="http://www.manshampoo.com/" target="_blank">hair and scalp</a></span>. Protein is also essential for muscle development, and fatty acids are important in the chemical reactions that control basic functions such as metabolism, immune function, and muscle growth. In short, while carbohydrates are the fuel your muscles need to operate, <span id="OBJ_PREFIX_DWT163_com_zimbra_url" class="Object"><a href="http://www.mckinley.illinois.edu/handouts/macronutrients.htm" target="_blank">protein and fat</a></span> are the building blocks you need to make those muscles in the first place. To be an effective player, you need all three in your diet—it does you no good to skimp on protein or fat, just as it does you no good to restrict carbs.</p>
<p><strong>What is the Right Balance?</strong></p>
<p>With the emphasis on low-carb lifestyles in some areas of the diet and fitness industry, it can get a bit confusing when you’re trying to figure out what your ideal diet is. The important thing to remember is that low-carb diets are typically touted by people who are actively trying to lose weight, and who aren’t involved in competitive sports. As a football player, a low-carb diet is only going to hinder your performance.</p>
<p>According to the <span id="OBJ_PREFIX_DWT164_com_zimbra_url" class="Object"><a href="http://www.iom.edu/Global/News%20Announcements/%7E/media/C5CD2DD7840544979A549EC47E56A02B.ashx" target="_blank">USDA Dietary Reference Intake</a></span>, between 45% and 65% of daily calories should come from carbohydrates, with 10% to 35% coming from protein, and 20% to 35% from fat. The amount of each macro-nutrient you need will vary according to the specific needs of your body. For football players, carbohydrate needs are on the high side of the range, and can be as high as 70% during a heavy training period, or in the days leading up to a competitive event. In general, you need between 2,400 and 3,000 carb calories every day while training.</p>
<p>Should you count calories? It’s not strictly necessary, but it can be a useful way to make sure your carb intake is adequate, and it’s important on game days to make sure your pre-game meal will provide you with enough calories to get you through.</p>
<p style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 11.818181991577148px;"><span> </span></p>
<p style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 11.818181991577148px;"><span> </span></p>
<p style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 11.8182px; padding-left: 30px;"><span><em>This article was written for World Football Daily by a guest author Lisa Holden, who holds a degree in Food and Nutritional Sciences.</em><br /></span></p>
Lisa Holden
2013-09-18T22:15:00Z
Aguero Debuts New Colorway for Puma evoSPEED Boot
Rafa Gonzales
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Aguero-Debuts-New-Colorway-for-Puma-evoSPEED-Boot/167675304534618874.html
2013-09-17T15:48:00Z
2013-09-17T15:48:00Z
It's happening tonight. When <a title="MCFC online" href="http://mcfc.com/" target="_blank"><strong>Manchester City</strong></a> take on Viktoria Plzen in the opening match of the <a title="UEFA Online" href="http://www.uefa.com/" target="_blank"><strong>Champions League </strong></a>Group Stage Round, Sergio Aguero will be donning the latest color options available for the <a title="The Boots" href="http://www.soccer.com/IWCatProductPage.process?Merchant_Id=1&Ne=646&N=4294960675+427+4294959027&Product_Id=11289020" target="_blank"><strong>Puma evoSPEED 1.2</strong></a> boot. I quite fancy the new colorway because I tend to love "purple and gold" (Los Angeles Lakers) as a color pairing. So when I saw the purple and orange color design of the new evoSPEED, I was all over it. <br /><br />Now, this presents a problem for most of us. Not being profession footballers who are sponsored and outfitted in the latest and greatest equipment for free, we have a real predicament when trying to decide between the original in highlighter green, or the new purple and orange.... decisions, decisions.<br /><br />Here's a couple pictures for you.<br /><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/300433.jpg" alt="evoSPEED 1.2 side view" /><br /><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/300431.jpg" alt="evoSPEED top view" /><br /><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/300412.jpg" alt="Gourcuff" /><br />
Rafa Gonzales
2013-09-17T15:48:00Z
What Footballer is on You Wall?
Rafa Gonzales
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/What-Footballer-is-on-You-Wall/-907982465410649037.html
2013-09-16T22:35:00Z
2013-09-16T22:35:00Z
So we've all had our hero's on our walls. No matter the sport or the place where you grew up, as long as you had walls, they got decorated. I personally can tell you that I've had the following hero's of mine up on my wall: Ally McCoist (Rangers Player Picture, not one of his current Managerial positions), Nacho Novo (yes, the Spanish King of Scotland), Lionel Messi (a FatHead or what ever those life-size wall stickers were called), and Darryl Strawberry of the Dodgers (taking it way back). The point being as sports fans, we tend to connect with sports heros, and often times we idolize a select few enough to put them in our homes.<br /><br />Well, <a title="Puma Online" href="http://www.puma.com/" target="_blank"><strong>Puma</strong></a> knows this. So does <a title="Sergio Aguero Online" href="http://www.sergioaguero.com/EN/" target="_blank"><strong>Sergio Aguero</strong></a>. So they asked for from fans, was a picture of themselves playing football where ever they play football. Of course, the pictures came flooding in. One lucky fan who won the competition, found out that the prize was delivering a framed version of the winner's photo to be places in the <strong><a title="MCFC online" href="http://www.mcfc.com/" target="_blank">Manchester City</a></strong> player's home. Not a bad flight to Manchester if you ask me.<br /><br />Here's the link to the <a title="Puma FC Promise" href="http://youtu.be/SaXMYbPaE1A" target="_blank"><strong>video</strong></a> of how it all when down. <br /> <iframe src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/SaXMYbPaE1A" frameborder="0" height="360" width="480"></iframe><br /><br />The next challenge is asking fans to send in their own, original and creative goal celebration. The winner get's his or her's celebration performed by Puma Footballer Marco Reus.<br /><br />Go to <a title="Puma Football Online" href="http://www.puma.com/football" target="_blank"><strong>Puma Football</strong></a> for more details.
Rafa Gonzales
2013-09-16T22:35:00Z
Sports Nutrition for Soccer Players
Lisa Holden
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Sports-Nutrition-for-Soccer-Players/287202167971353567.html
2013-09-13T15:59:00Z
2013-09-13T15:59:00Z
<p style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 11.818181991577148px;"><span>A </span><span id="OBJ_PREFIX_DWT337_com_zimbra_url" class="Object"><a title="Boots like these!" href="http://worldfootballdaily.com/b/Putting-these-boots-on-my-wishlist/-56191026102577349.html" target="_blank">new pair of boots</a></span><span> may enhance performance on the field, but it all depends on the player who’s wearing them. Playing a great game starts not with your equipment, but with your health and nutrition, and while the science behind the advice can get complicated, the advice itself is straightforward and easy to follow.</span></p>
<p style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 11.818181991577148px;"><strong>Eating for General Health and Performance</strong></p>
<p style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 11.818181991577148px;"><span>All food provides calories, but bodies don’t run efficiently on junk. All of the nutrients, vitamins, and minerals that you need as a player are already important to your body simply to maintain good health, so </span><span id="OBJ_PREFIX_DWT338_com_zimbra_url" class="Object"><a title="US Soccer's Nutrition Rules" href="http://www.ussoccer.com/news/mens-national-team/2012/01/10-nutrition-rules.aspx" target="_blank">the basic advice</a></span><span> is the same for everyone, whether or not they’re an athlete, and no matter what sport they play. Eat foods that are minimally processed, eat a wide range of fruits and vegetables, choose lean protein, and eat healthy unsaturated fats. Make this your baseline to ensure your body gets the basic building blocks it needs to build muscle and strength, and keep every part of your body working effectively. You don’t need to bulk up on protein or carbohydrates the way endurance athletes or bodybuilders do, but it’s important to maintain a consistently healthy well-balanced diet. Eating for good health and physical fitness means improved muscle function, more energy, and increased endurance, giving you more energy to operate at peak performance till the end of every game.</span></p>
<p style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 11.818181991577148px;"><span>According to US men’s team coach Jurgen Klinsmann, it’s also important to spread your calories throughout the day, eating four to six small meals and snacks, so that <span class="GINGER_SOFATWARE_correct">you’re</span> refueling your body every three hours or so. Staying hydrated is essential too, and Klinsmann recommends drinking at least three liters a day of non-caloric beverages such as water or green tea.</span></p>
<p style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 11.818181991577148px;"><span>After a workout or training session, it’s important to replace fluids over the following hours, and <span class="GINGER_SOFATWARE_correct">to eat</span> a good post-workout meal that contains both carbohydrates and protein, along with a little healthy fat.</span></p>
<p style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 11.818181991577148px;"><strong>Eating on Game Day</strong></p>
<p style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 11.818181991577148px;"><span>When it comes to eating on the day of a game, it’s vitally important to carefully count the calories you eat, and when you eat them. Eating a nutrient-rich meal of 300-500 calories, three to five hours before a training session or game, gives you the energy you need and means you’re less likely to have problems with muscle fatigue or cramping. On the other hand, if you were to eat that meal two hours beforehand it’s more likely to have a negative effect on the way you play, because your body needs a good amount of time to digest the meal. In general, 100 calories per hour before the game or training session is a good rule to follow—and if you’re eating <span class="GINGER_SOFATWARE_correct">in</span> the one to two hours before a game, it’s often better to go with a liquid snack rather than solid food. Avoid anything that’s high in sugar, especially if it’s in liquid form, as this will be metabolized too quickly to provide long-lasting energy, and can leave you feeling fatigued and light-headed once you start playing.</span></p>
<p style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 11.818181991577148px;"><span>During a game, it’s crucial to keep yourself properly hydrated. This isn’t always easy, but remember that by the time you feel thirsty, you’re already dehydrated—so drink a little water during every break, and go for a sports drink during halftime, to replace carbohydrates and electrolytes.</span></p>
<p style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 11.818181991577148px;"><span>After the game, another sports drink is the easiest and fastest way to replace the fluid and carbohydrates lost during the second half, followed by plenty of water throughout the remainder of the day. For meals, choose foods that are fairly high in carbohydrates, such as bread, pasta, and fruit.</span></p>
<p style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 11.818181991577148px;"><strong>Medications and Supplements</strong></p>
<p style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 11.818181991577148px;"><span>The use of performance-enhancing drugs, commonly referred to as </span><span id="OBJ_PREFIX_DWT339_com_zimbra_url" class="Object"><a title="Definition" href="http://www.wada-ama.org/en/" target="_blank">doping</a></span><span>, <span class="GINGER_SOFATWARE_correct">has never been</span> as big a problem in soccer as it has been in weightlifting, and in endurance sports such as cycling and swimming. Even so, it’s still worthwhile to emphasize the importance of avoiding these substances, as well as recreational drugs, not only because of the ethical implications, but because of the possible health consequences. Long term steroid use, for example, can lead to hair loss, impotency, and impaired liver function, and stimulants such as ephedrine can cause circulatory problems and <span class="GINGER_SOFATWARE_correct">heatstroke</span>. In recent years, some athletes have turned to erectile dysfunction medications for their circulation-boosting effects. </span><span id="OBJ_PREFIX_DWT340_com_zimbra_url" class="Object"><a href="http://licensedprescriptions.com/staxyn-with-alcohol.asp" target="_blank">Erectile dysfunction medications</a></span><span> are safe when used as prescribed, but, as noted in the <span id="OBJ_PREFIX_DWT341_com_zimbra_date" class="Object">June 29</span> issue of the </span><em>Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition,</em><span> misuse of these drugs can have dangerous consequences. One reason for this is that erectile dysfunction medications are prescribed for use only when specifically required, but when used for doping they are typically taken much more frequently than is safe.</span></p>
<p style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 11.818181991577148px;"><span>Supplements, on the other hand, can be an effective addition—but it’s important to remember that they can’t take the place of a healthy diet. On the other hand, if there are certain vitamins or minerals that you’re missing, adding targeted supplements, or a multivitamin, is the best way to address this problem.</span></p>
<p style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 11.818181991577148px;"><span> </span></p>
<p style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 11.818181991577148px;"><span> </span></p>
<p style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 11.8182px; padding-left: 30px;"><span><em>This article was written for World Football Daily by a guest author Lisa Holden, who holds a degree in Food and Nutritional Sciences.</em><br /></span></p>
Lisa Holden
2013-09-13T15:59:00Z
Catch of the day, Red Sharks, cooked by Aztec Dogs
Gio Franco
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Catch-of-the-day,-Red-Sharks,-cooked-by-Aztec-Dogs/30479275331863888.html
2013-09-10T03:34:00Z
2013-09-10T03:34:00Z
<p>Visiting Tijuana, one thing an individual has to try is the seafood in downtown Tijuana. At the Estadio Caliente Xolos were the hosts to the buffet, for the fans of 23,000 plus. Club Tijuana entertained <a title="Veracruz homepage" href="http://tiburones-rojos.com/" target="_blank">Veracruz</a> one of the oldest football clubs in Mexico, which just recently returned to Liga MX. Veracruz at the start of the Mexican apertura enjoyed a rather fantastic start to their season, at the top of the pack after four games into the league. <a title="Xolos homepage" href="http://www.xolosofficial.com/" target="_blank">Xoloitzcuintles</a> on the other end endured a harsh start to the apertura, entering the Caliente undefeated at home, but in 13<sup>th</sup> in the Liga.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The match kicked off on a sultry night in border town of Tijuana, and Xolos were quick firing right out of the starting gate. Dominating possession and creating more opportunities than Veracruz, it only took the Aztec dogs 35 minutes to find the back of the net. A well-timed tackle by Cristian Pellerano halted the Tiburones Rojos (Red Sharks) counter-attack. Pellerano was able to find Olsina on his run into the box and Diego Olsina squared the ball across goal for the trailing Fidel Martinez to simply tap it home. The second of the night would come out of a result from a set piece just four minutes after the first goal was scored. Neatly placed into the space again by Diego Olsina for Pablo Aguilar to re-direct the ball into the post and in the back of the net. Throughout the first half of the match Veracruz found it very difficult to find a rhythm to their build up play and only looked threatening to Tijuana on the counter.</p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/fidel martinez celebrating the opening goal.jpg" alt="" width="350" height="350" /></p>
<p>At the start of the second half the Aztec dogs found themselves still in command of the game, holding a strong majority of possession and threatening the red sharks goalie Edgar Hernandez. The first sub of the night came in the 59<sup>th</sup> minute for Club Tijuana, Paul Arriola was brought on for Richard Ruiz to add fresh legs for Xolos, and Veracruz would also try to change things when bringing on Cristian Ezequiel for Luis Sanchez. The third goal of the night would come to the Tijuana and to the young Fidel Martinez, the man in form for Xolos, a wonderful ball floated over the top of the Veracruz defense by Cristian Pellerano found the run by Martinez and the young Ecuadorian was cool to dispatch the ball over the rushing Hernandez to make it 3-0 in the 65<sup>th</sup> minute.</p>
<p><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Aguilar xolos.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="300" /></p>
<p>Veracruz found it challenging from the get-go to produce any “real” opportunities on the Xolos goal, in fact the red sharks had lacked a real cohesive unit in the middle of the park. Making all efforts for Veracruz highly limited, and when one is limited to their opportunities you have to burry the few you get, and that wasn’t the story for the Tiburones Rojos. Tijuana instead took center stage of the match and with there efforts came the outcome Xolos wanted, continued undefeated streak in the estadio Caliente and all three points. Saturday night it was the fisherman’s hook for the red sharks and they were served on a plate for the Xoloitzcuintles. </p>
<p><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Xolos crest.png" alt="" width="300" height="300" /></p>
Gio Franco
2013-09-10T03:34:00Z
Vidic and Puma Prove PowerCat Gets Results
Gio Franco
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Vidic-and-Puma-Prove-PowerCat-Gets-Results/879467877456812663.html
2013-09-06T18:43:00Z
2013-09-06T18:43:00Z
<p>During the last several years at <a title="Man Utd homepage" href="http://www.manutd.com/" target="_blank">Manchester United</a>, the Red Devils have endured a very prosperous time. Winning a myriad of silverware and selling of one their star players, United still have proven to evolve in winning ways. The main contributor to the successful campaigns for the Red Devils was their sturdy defense with Nemanja Vidic the captain, marshalling the back line. When reporters confronted Manchester United captain at an event for <a title="Puma Homepage" href="https://www.puma.com/">Puma's</a>, the true grit defender had on a pair of Puma powercat1 boots.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Approached by journalists Nemanja had extensive amount of questions asked of him. When inquired about the new boss at the helm, David Moyes, Vidic stated “Were been working quite a lot on tactics with David Moyes and training is intense.” The red devil captain gave many to ponder and hope for with the likes of Jesse Lingard and Adnan Januzaj, both played outstandingly during United’s pre-season tour. Vidic was quick to point out who he thought would challenge for the premier league title “I would say our main competitors this season are Chelsea and City.” Chelsea and Manchester City noted had a very successful transfer season with their acquisition of new players and releasing of certain players.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The subject of the perfect boot for a defender did arose, and Nemanja said the one obvious thing, “the most important feature in a boot is that it is comfortable.” Comfort is the one attribute the lot of us search for in a good playing boot, and the powercat1 boasts premium K-Leather for the best in fit, comfort and touch. The <a title="Puma Powercat1 webpage" href="http://www.shop.puma.com/PowerCat-1-FG-Men%27s-Firm-Ground-Soccer-Cleats/pna102778,en_US,pd.html&cgid=280031#!i%3D15%26color%3D01">powercat1</a> not only is comfortable but also is ideal with shooting power and precision. In the midfield, where first touch reigns supreme the powercats help in improving first touch in small spaces, to help get around opposing players and defenses. The factor that the boots from Puma boast to be 6% lighter, tribute to the red devils captain when he also stated, “if the boot fits well and is lightweight then it will be comfortable to play in.”</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The Puma company should be quite pleased with having Vidic on their team, to help prove their quality in a football boot. Puma offers a nice third party competitor to buying football cleats as opposed to Adidas and Nike. All realms of the field are covered Puma with Falcao to cover the forward role of the pitch, Fabregas to represent the midfield and now Nemanja Vidic to steward the defense in Puma’s advertising. When selecting a boot for a player can be very challenging, when it comes to certain aspects of the boot, comfort has to be the number one quality to a boot especially for a strong and powerful defender, a fast paced midfield general, or the cutthroat poaching striker. </p>
<p><br /><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Tom Oldham Photography_Vidic.jpg" alt="" width="350" height="300" /></p>
<p><span style="font-family: sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><em>Nemanja Vidic wears the PUMA PowerCat football boots. Visit </em></span><span id="OBJ_PREFIX_DWT117_com_zimbra_url" class="Object"><a href="http://www.pumafootballclub.com" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><em>www.pumafootballclub.com</em></span></a></span><span style="font-family: sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><em> for further information</em></span></p>
Gio Franco
2013-09-06T18:43:00Z
Galaxy cruise the California Classico in Carson
Gio Franco
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Galaxy-cruise-the-California-Classico-in-Carson/-173048058483643900.html
2013-09-03T02:26:00Z
2013-09-03T02:26:00Z
<p> </p>
<p>The California Classico in Los Angeles observed an absolute master class for the <a title="Galaxy homepage" href="http://www.lagalaxy.com/" target="_blank">LA Galaxy</a>. A strong and intelligent LA Galaxy was able to dispatch state rivals the San Jose Earthquakes 3-0 on a warm and muggy evening in Carson. The Galaxy went into the interval with a commanding 2-0 lead against San Jose. The Earthquakes in fact were able to probe the galaxy fairly effectively but could not turn any of their ventures into clear opportunities. A fantastic display from both captain Robbie Keane and vice captain Landon Donovan gave way the floodgates.</p>
<p> <img src="/images/blog/Leonardo shaking off def.jpg" alt="Strong defending from Leonardo" width="300" height="300" /></p>
<p>The warm muggy night began slow as both teams slowly tested each other’s strengths and weaknesses. In fact the first open opportunity fell to unmarked Wondolowski in the 10<sup>th</sup> minute on a corner kick. Chris fired the shot from his first touch at close range, but Jaime Penedo was able to parry away Wondo’s effort. The match began to open up for the Galaxy, as Robbie Keane was able to maneuver himself into a prime shooting position but scuffed his attempt wide in the 20<sup>th</sup> minute. The Galaxy struck in the 26<sup>th</sup> minute Omar Gonzalez came up on top of an Earthquakes set piece and set Sarvas up in a open position to play the ball to Robbie Keane. Robbie was calm and cool to see Landon on his run and timed the pass perfectly to play Landon in on goal to round Jon Busch and to take the lead, 1-0. The Los Angeles midfield was hard at work when it came to soaking pressure from the Earthquakes in order to regain possession and create opportunities on goal. Near the closing minutes of the first half saw the Galaxy push forward in attack. Landon Donovan was able to pick out Gyasi Zardes on a run in the box and with the little contact drawn from Steven Beitashour, Zardes sold the contact well with referee Kevin Stott pointing to the spot. Robbie Keane stepped up to the spot, took his time and despite Busch getting a hand to his low penalty it found its way to the back of the net.</p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/franklin assist.jpg" alt="Sean Franklin nodding the ball for Keane" width="500" height="300" /></p>
<p>The first half ended at 2-0 and the <a title="Earthquakes homepage" href="http://www.sjearthquakes.com/">San Jose Earthquakes</a> looked slow, weak, and unresponsive to the LA Galaxy’s incursions. The second half was no different from the first as the Galaxy pressed the San Jose goal. The Earthquakes conceded a third goal in the 67<sup>th</sup> minute when Zardes floated his cross into the box for Franklin to node back into play for Keane to strike the ball on the volley into the net, 3-0. Robbie Keane found himself to be in rare form, Keane and Donovan were fantastic going forward in attack. Franklin, Juninho and Sarvas enjoyed a hard fought night, as none were exempt of defensive duties throughout the game. An evident display of dominance by the LA Galaxy who currently sits second in the <a title="MLS homepage" href="http://www.mlssoccer.com/">MLS</a> and are now serious title contenders. The Earthquakes lacked a response from the inform players coming from Los Angeles. In fact found it rather difficult to trouble Penedo’s goal after the first 10 minutes.</p>
<p> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/la galaxy v san jose final score.jpg" alt="" width="500" height="300" /></p>
<p>A terrific display of mental and physical fortitude was depicted on the night, as the LA Galaxy proved to be a far more assertive and clever, now in the latter stages of the season. The win placed the Galaxy in a very important position on the league table, second in the League, along with their form and depth to the squad. All will be crucial in the looming days of the MLS play-offs. </p>
<p> </p>
Gio Franco
2013-09-03T02:26:00Z
Colombian DP leads the goals scored in Liga Sagres
Gio Franco
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Colombian-DP-leads-the-goals-scored-in-Liga-Sagres/13571236848955835.html
2013-08-30T05:23:00Z
2013-08-30T05:23:00Z
<p>Waves are being made in the talent pool that is Portugal, and the ripples are coming from a Colombian on loan from the <a title="Sounders homepage" href="http://www.soundersfc.com/" target="_blank">Seattle Sounders</a>. Fredy Montero came to the Seattle Sounders in January of 2009 on loan from Deportivo Cali in Colombia. Montero made his debut March 29<sup>th</sup> 2009 against the New York Red Bulls, and scored the first and third goals in Sounders History. After early action of the European campaign Montero has aided Sporting Lisbon in their quest to challenge<a title="FC Porto homepage" href="http://www.fcporto.pt/english/hp_english.asp" target="_blank"> FC Porto</a> for Liga Sagres glory.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>With just two games being played in Portugal, <a title="Sporting Lisbon homepage " href="https://www.sporting.pt/english/english_hp.asp" target="_blank">Sporting Lisbon</a> has finally thrown down the gauntlet to their neighbors Benfica and the Portuguese powerhouse of Football and wine, Porto. After the first week in Liga Sagres saw Sporting thrash Arouca 5-1 on opening day in Portugal. The talk of Lisbon was Fredy Montero the Colombian from the Seattle Sounders, netting an impressive hat trick for the Leoes. Montero enjoyed the debut of the Portuguese league starting against Arouca for Sporting. With the Colombian’s start Leonardo Jardim, head coach, was awarded with a hat trick and an obvious three points at home in Lisbon.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The second week saw the Lions travel north to Coimbra to take on Academica, in Sporting’s first away match of the new campaign. It didn’t take long for Sporting to grab the first goal in the 23<sup>rd</sup> minute of the match. Towards the latter stages of the game that turned to be a rout of Academica, Montero showed up to the party with a goal from the penalty spot to seal the win 4-0 for Sporting. During the match against Arouca, Montero’s off the ball movement was impeccable and with it led to him making chances out of nothing. With Fredy’s movement and chances he found the back of the net on four occasions.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Many large teams’ scouts use a variety of leagues through out the globe to determine upcoming talent today. Holland, France and Portugal have always been the talent pools where many stars came up through the ranks at many teams in these leagues. With the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo coming from Sporting, Falcao from Porto, Moutinho from Sporting, show that Liga Sagres knows talent. Currently sporting sits on top of Liga Sagres and with their leading goal scorer Fredy Monetero, leading the league with four goals in two games. The real test lies just ahead of Fredy Montero and Sporting Lisbon, <a title="SL Benfica homepage" href="http://www.slbenfica.pt/en-us/home.aspx" target="_blank">Benfica</a>. Benfica has been enduring a somewhat slow start to the season to the contrary of Sporting’s current position. What better a time for a goal scorer to prove oneself than in derby against Sporting’s cross-town rival. </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
Gio Franco
2013-08-30T05:23:00Z
Santi Cazorla Signs With Puma
Rafa Gonzales
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Santi-Cazorla-Signs-With-Puma/357466680976297236.html
2013-08-28T18:13:00Z
2013-08-28T18:13:00Z
<a title="Puma Football" href="http://www.puma.com/football" target="_blank"><strong></strong></a><span style="color: black;"><a title="Puma Football" href="http://www.puma.com/football" target="_blank">PUMA </a>has signed a new long-term partnership with Arsenal’s creative midfielder Santi Cazorla. The Spanish international will wear PUMA evoSPEED football boots on pitch this weekend, joining a trend of evoSPEED players that includes Sergio Agüero, Radamel Falcao and AFC teammateOlivier Giroud. Santi Cazorla will become another important asset in PUMA’s global football ‘Nature of Performance’ communication program.<br /><br /></span><span style="color: black;"> Santi Cazorla is the perfect player to promote the PUMA evoSPEED product range. The Spaniard enjoyed a phenomenal first season at Arsenal, thrilling fans with an attacking style of play that led to him being voted the player of the season at the North London club.<br /><br /></span><br />
<blockquote><span style="color: black;"><img style="float: right; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Santi_Cazorla-4131.gif" alt="Santi Cazorla" width="293" height="439" />“Signing this new partnership with PUMA is an exciting step for me. I like the people, their ideas for football and I am impressed with their product development. The evoSPEED boots I have chosen to wear are very light and give me a freedom and quickness of movement, which is very important for me to perform at my best. I am pleased the new season is underway and hope I can help my club and national team enjoy a successful year, and I am looking forward to working with PUMA.”</span> -Santi Cazorla<br /></blockquote>
<br />The evoSPEED 1.2 boot<strong> </strong>that Cazorla will wear is PUMA’S latest performance football boot, designed to enable players reach top speed quickly without sacrificing stability or comfort. This is made possible through the use of light materials in combination with an internal midfoot support cage (EverFit cage) that maintains a good fit during all points of sprinting. The outsole is reconfigured with smaller conical studs that give the player a better grip on the ground and enhances manoeuvrability on the pitch. For optimal comfort, a minimised tongue and heel have been added, reducing pressure on the Achilles tendon whilst the sock liner distributes the foot’s pressure evenly.<span style="color: black;"><br /><br /></span><iframe src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/rQTQpEkLTgo" frameborder="0" height="315" width="560"></iframe>
Rafa Gonzales
2013-08-28T18:13:00Z
Arsenal Finding Its Legs?
Guest
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Arsenal-Finding-Its-Legs/576193998050845102.html
2013-08-26T13:31:00Z
2013-08-26T13:31:00Z
Entering the Premier League season, just a few short weeks ago, hope was relatively high for Arsenal and its followers. Sure, the offseason went by without much in the way of events, and with no notable improvements made. But despite that fact, the club entered league play with, by most people's reckoning, the 4th best odds to come out as champion (behind Man City, Chelsea and Man U). <br /> <br /> The, on the Saturday of opening weekend (August 17th), Arsenal stumbled out of the gate with a start nothing short of disastrous, and fans everywhere scrambled for the proverbial panic button.<br /> <br /> Opening the Premier League at <a href="http://www.arsenal.com/emirates-stadium">Emirates Stadium</a> against Aston Villa, Arsenal came out of the gate with energy. Olivier Giroud tapped in a low, short entry pass from a streaking Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, and the crowd was in an instant frenzy in the 6th minute. However, just 16 minutes later, Christian Benteke scored on a rebound from a blocked PK, and just like that Aston Villa were off and running. Despite the tied score, Arsenal looked as if it were playing catch-up from that point on, and when Benteke converted a second penalty in the 61st minute the feeling became a reality. Sealing the deal, Luna converted an 86th minute breakaway score to cap a 3-1 Aston Villa. Simply put, a horrific start for Arsenal. <br /> <br /> The immediate narrative following the match, from everywhere from casual fans to the <a href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/23644714">BBC</a>, was that the defeat highlighted a failure of an offseason, and the mood turned quite negative, quite quickly. However, before fans despair too much, they should take heart in what appears to have been a quick turnaround. Arsenal have rattled off 2 straight convincing wins, and a glance at the <a href="http://betting.betfair.com/football/">Betfair news</a> sports exchange shows them still with the 4th best odds to win the Premier League.<br /> <br /> Just 4 days after the defeat to Aston Villa, Arsenal delivered a very strong performance in Champions League qualifying, handily defeating an overmatched Fenerbahce 3-0 behind goals from Gibbs, Ramsey, and Giroud (on a PK). Fenerbahce may not be a particularly deadly opponent at the moment, but Arsenal made it look easy, and in Istanbul no less. Another 3 days later, this past Saturday the 24th, Arsenal notched its first win in Premier League play with a very strong 3-1 victory over Fulham at Craven Cottage. Giroud scored for a 3rd straight match, and Lukas Podolski scored once in each half for Arsenal, who suddenly look as if all is well.<br /> <br /> Now ultimately it will take more than a couple of wins over the likes of Fenerbahce and Fulham to truly put Arsenal in the thick of the race. But following the awful start to the season, the strong play in the past week has lead to increasing optimism. A rematch with Fenerbahce on Tuesday and a weekend showdown with Tottenham Hotspur should provide a clearer indication of where this club is headed.
Guest
2013-08-26T13:31:00Z
Putting these boots on my wishlist
Rafa Gonzales
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Putting-these-boots-on-my-wishlist/-56191026102577349.html
2013-08-23T20:47:00Z
2013-08-23T20:47:00Z
I am really digging these boots. They've been on the feet of a lot of footballer all Summer already and I think it's about time I buy them for myself.<br /><br />Keep tuned in to World Football Daily for reviews to come. <a title="Nike Website" href="http://www.nike.com/us/en_us/c/football/hypervenom" target="_blank"><strong>Nike Football </strong></a>keeps delivering.<br />
<p><iframe src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/59W937u-jxg?list=SPmOt0Ey1uV4mH6JMBjFOaP9dh2QTZYPR7" frameborder="0" height="315" width="560"></iframe></p>
<a title="Nike YouTube Video" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=59W937u-jxg&list=SPmOt0Ey1uV4mH6JMBjFOaP9dh2QTZYPR7" target="_blank"><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/nike-hypervenom-new-boot-for-a-new-breed-player-010.jpg" alt="Neymar Hypervenom" width="448" height="298" /></a><br /><br />
Rafa Gonzales
2013-08-23T20:47:00Z
Just Do It - 25 Years in the Making
Rafa Gonzales
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Just-Do-It---25-Years-in-the-Making/366610654432090068.html
2013-08-22T19:47:00Z
2013-08-22T19:47:00Z
<p>Nike’s new campaign, “Possibilities,” inspires viewers to push their limits and strive to reach new goals through a variety of playful scenarios featuring an all-star cast of athletes and guest stars. Digital and social media activations help viewers to #justdoit themselves through a series of Nike+ challenges. The film begins with the line, “If you can run a mile, run a race, run a marathon, outrun a movie star.” Different challenges and scenarios emerge, each challenging characters in the film — and the audience — to push themselves to new limits.</p>
<p>The film features basketball star and reigning NBA MVP, LeBron James; world No. 1 tennis icon Serena Williams; Gerard Pique of FC Barcelona and Spain; and boxing sensation Andre Ward. Actor Bradley Cooper narrates the film, which was directed by the acclaimed Nicolai Fuglsig, and features a guest appearance by actor Chris Pine.</p>
<p><iframe src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/aPkyPdubqDs" frameborder="0" height="360" width="480"></iframe></p>
<p>As part of the 25th anniversary of ‘Just Do It," the inspirational message doesn’t stop when the film ends. “Possibilities” seeks to inspire everyone in their personal achievements through Nike+. The film is a challenge to the audience, who can physically take part in the film’s concept through a series of Nike+ challenges.</p>
<blockquote>
<p>"For 25 years, we’ve been inspiring people to Just Do It,” comments Davide Grasso, Nike Global Chief Marketing Officer. “With ‘Possibilities’ we’re taking 'Just Do It' to a whole new place, showing people a new way to set goals and think about their own athletic potential, then helping them to achieve those goals through products, services and inspiration.”<img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/JDI_large.JPG" alt="Just Do It" /></p>
</blockquote>
<p>Viewers can explore their own “Possibilities” through several activations, including Nike+ Running and NikeFuel challenges. </p>
<p>The <em>Challenges</em> feature on the Nike+ Running app enables runners to set a distance goal, invite Nike+ friends to join and race to the virtual finish line. Users can determine the Challenge’s name, mileage goal, time period and participants, and a new chat feature allows friends to encourage each other and share tips throughout the Challenge. Runners can stay motivated by checking the live leaderboard to track progress and see where they rank amongst their friends.</p>
<p>From Aug. 20-Sept. 13, runners using the Nike+ Running app can log their Nike+ miles towards winning a once-in-lifetime running experience, as part of Nike’s crowd-sourced Free Run concept.</p>
<p>The Nike+ digital ecosystem has more than 18 million global members, and anyone who engages in these Challenges will be encouraged to share their activity through the hashtag #justdoit to ultimately help drive participants to realize new possibilities.</p>
<p> </p>
Rafa Gonzales
2013-08-22T19:47:00Z
Landon Donovan the Provider in CONCACAF
Gio Franco
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Landon-Donovan-the-Provider-in-CONCACAF/652852111856098688.html
2013-08-22T18:08:00Z
2013-08-22T18:08:00Z
<p> </p>
<p>It was the usual suspects at the Stub Hub center for the CONCACAF Champions League match between the Los Angeles Galaxy and CS Cartiganes. The combination play between Landon Donovan and Robbie Keane proved to be the winning factor to Tuesday night in LA. Not only were Landon and Keane on par, but also the stalwart defensive display showed by Omar Gonzalez, Sean Franklin and the debutant Kofi Opare to help secure a shut out. Fairly strong display by a handful of said players proved to be the difference between the LA Galaxy and CS Cartiganes.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>As the game kicked off at the Stub Hub Center in Carson, Bruce Arena introduced three young faces to starting line up in Carson. Michael Stephens was the oldest at 24 years old. Michael was able to gain a certain level of control on the game, but found it difficult to create any kind of attacking play going forward. Kofi Opare was the debutant of the night, and enjoyed a very strong defensive display in the back four alongside Omar Gonzalez, Sean Franklin and Todd Dunivant. Jose Villarreal was the youngest of the three at age 19, struggled to find his 1<sup>st</sup> touch in the match. After 60 minutes it was enough for Bruce Arena to sub off Jose for Landon Donovan, who proved to be the creative factor to the game.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Much of the first half chances the Galaxy created were either scuffed due to a poor first touch or one too many touches inside the 18-yard box. Jose Villarreal could have put the galaxy in the lead in the 27<sup>th</sup> minute but his first touch failed him. This resulted in Cartiganes goalkeeper Alfaro to easily smother the ball in his possession. Robbie Keane had the best opportunity of the first half, having taken one too many touches inside the 18-yard box; Alfaro again came up on top. As time progressed towards halftime, Robbie Rogers suffered a strained hamstring in the 44<sup>th</sup> minute and was subbed off for Gyasi Zardes.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>In the 2<sup>nd</sup> half, Zardes did have a small amount of influence on the game, but not in the creating factor, which the Galaxy lacked a fair portion through out the pitch, creating clear-cut<span style="color: #008000;"> </span>chances. The deadlock was finally broken in the 66<sup>th</sup> minute when Donovan carefully picked out Robbie Keane on a pass into the 18-yard box and Keane was able to force the ball through Alfaro on his third touch. Towards the end it was déjà vu, but this time Donovan was able to find Keane on the through ball in the attacking half of the field and Keane cleverly chipped it past Alfaro in the 91<sup>st</sup> minute.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The Galaxy walked away from this fixture with all 3 points, but at a small price with the injury to Robbie Rogers. At the moment the LA Galaxy sit first in their group equal with points with Cartiganes, ahead on goals and with a game in hand. Bruce Arena would note his team’s lack of attacking creativity from the midfield<ins datetime="2013-08-22T10:20" cite="mailto:Giovani%20Franco"> </ins>until Landon got on the pitch. Even though Omar Gonzalez and Sean Franklin had decent passes from the back of the field for chances but none were capitalized on. With Landon’s presence in the midfield provided the creative spark the Galaxy needed to make goals. Donovan was able to trigger the runs and connections with Robbie Keane. As an outcome Keane made two goals from Donovan’s passes. With them the Los Angeles Galaxy are at the top of the table with a superior goal differential and a game in hand. </p>
<p> </p>
Gio Franco
2013-08-22T18:08:00Z
Rafa Fails, Then Fixes His Own Problems... Unlike the Arsenal.
Rafa Gonzales
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Rafa-Fails,-Then-Fixes-His-Own-Problems...-Unlike-the-Arsenal./696404650649744548.html
2013-08-21T16:46:00Z
2013-08-21T16:46:00Z
Really sorry about the hassle but things should be sorted now and all the podcasts should be releasing appropriately. <br /><br />Whether you listen live through the website, you download through iTunes, or perhaps you use Stitcher Radio to listen to the full show, you can all now go back to your normal routines.<br /><br />I can't apologize enough. I feel like an ass. I know what it's like to have a listening schedule to the show. I did it myself for years. The good thing is, there are some killer, and I mean killer shows to catch up on. Just think about it. You get to re-live the excited of the opening EPL weekend all over again!!!<br /><br />Ok, so small conciliation I know. I appreciate your patience in this whole process. Again, it was a mistake I had made when posting so I take the blame. Hopefully we keep these type of accidents to a minimum.<br /><br />Thanks for all your support.<br />Rafa<br />
Rafa Gonzales
2013-08-21T16:46:00Z
Looking at Juventus this Season - Fan Preview
Rafa Gonzales
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Looking-at-Juventus-this-Season---Fan-Preview/-161391974116028292.html
2013-08-15T19:12:00Z
2013-08-15T19:12:00Z
We always have an open invitation for our members to get involved with the community of World Football Daily. Juve Jay sends in his thoughts and impressions on his beloved Juventus as they get ready for the new Serie A season. <br /><br /><br /><iframe src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/8WX459mpMSw" frameborder="0" height="315" width="560"></iframe><br /><br />Feel free to get stuck in yourself any time. Just email us <a title="Email Us" href="mailto:show@worldfootballdaily.com" target="_blank">here</a> at World Football Daily.
Rafa Gonzales
2013-08-15T19:12:00Z
Lack of discipline costs Chivas USA a much needed three points
Gio Franco
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Lack-of-discipline-costs-Chivas-USA-a-much-needed-three-points/-324726169211684615.html
2013-08-14T03:57:00Z
2013-08-14T03:57:00Z
<p>Mind games, overshadowed the fluid and physical display from Chivas USA in their match against the Colorado Rapids. Both teams played with an exemplary amount of fluidity in their play, going back and forth, box to box. Not one team found itself exempt on any plausible infractions on the night, as referee Chris Penso officiated the night. The pitch played host to all forms of the beautiful game as one can observe in Europe. The three expulsions, intelligent penalty save, and the two beautiful goals are only the obvious talking points to the night.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The first half started brightly for Chivas USA, as Jose Luis Real’s “red and whites” pressured the rapids high up the pitch. After 5 minutes from kick-off the pressure produced a goal as the ball was played up the field. Pressure from both Erick Torres and Marco Delgado forced a poor clearance from German Mera, where Torres picked out the open Alvarez, who placed the ball on the sweet spot on his left foot and into the corner of the goal. After some high probing efforts from the rapids and pressure on the young Chivas defense, their attempts were rewarded with a penalty in the 27<sup>th</sup> minute. With the defender’s best efforts Steven Purdy could not keep his hand at his sides and as a result the ball did in fact come into contact with hand to justify referee Penso to point to the spot. When all looked longingly at Brown to bury the penalty, it was Dan Kennedy who came up on top; Kennedy read the spot kick perfectly and made a comfortable save. As the game began to open up more on the night, a very reckless and atrocious challenge made by Gabriel Farfan on Shane O’Neill gave Penso no choice but to show Farfan red in the 32<sup>nd</sup> minute. With the extra man advantage gave the Rapids more effort with the extra possession gained, and they looked threatening with LaBrocca’s long ranged effort being pushed off target by Kennedy.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>At the start of the 2<sup>nd</sup> half, Pareja the coach of the Rapids decided to capitalize on the man advantage. Oscar Pareja decided take off German Mera for Vincente Sanchez to add on an extra attacking option on the field for the Rapids. Three minutes into the 2<sup>nd</sup> half produced our next sending off of the night. Tony Cascio picked up his second yellow of the night for a high boot on Marco Delgado, granted it appeared that Delgado embellished the action a tad to sell the sending off to the referee. When both sides were at 10 men the game began to balance itself out with Chivas regaining some ground with their possession. But was short lived when Tristan Bowen was sent off for spitting on Chris Klute in the 63<sup>rd</sup> minute. When seeing the act on replay, everyone knew it justified the expulsion from the game for Bowen. Chivas were, again, punished to play a man short on the field and, with the lack of two players the open space, it was easy to find for the Rapids. Finally Colorado’s break through came in the 80<sup>th</sup> minute, a beautiful cross from Chris Klute from the right of the box found Martin Rivero and his unmarked header hit the back of the net. With all things square heading into the final ten minutes of the game, plus extra time, the situation appeared hard for Chivas. At the end of the game, it finished off level at 1-1, with Chivas USA holding onto a point after particularly “shooting themselves in the foot” with the two reckless red cards.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>With the game ending 1-1, Chivas USA should be fairly grateful for coming out of this match with a point. Coming to the expulsions Chivas USA had only itself to blame, when the group had a full, strength squad their game was on tip top, pressuring high up the field, forcing mistakes and capitalizing on-said mistakes. Due to a lapse of concentration and discipline, Chivas USA made it hard for itself to get a foothold into the game after the first 30 minutes. The Rapids, although looked slow after the start of the game slowly, found their identity in the game and were able to exploit the open space on the field. In all a fair result for both teams, Jose Luis would be diligent to stamp out the lack of discipline in his squad. In light of certain events of the game, one could of assumed that Chivas USA could of walked away with all three points, if cooler heads would have prevailed. Instead coach Jose Luis has to settle for a point and hopefully will be able to instill a mental fortitude within his team. </p>
<p> </p>
Gio Franco
2013-08-14T03:57:00Z
Melting pot of football in Dodger Stadium
Gio Franco
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Melting-pot-of-football-in-Dodger-Stadium/-806908834456303471.html
2013-08-11T05:43:00Z
2013-08-11T05:43:00Z
<p>Los Angeles’ Dodger Stadium displayed the many different styles and philosophies of football as it played host to teams from a variety of leagues. Saturday’s double-header, although a pre-season tournament, has shown both positives and negatives to all on all four teams that competed. Real Madrid played and capitalized on their strength in the counter attack. Although Everton were defeated by the giants from Madrid, they had quite a few positive notes to take home from the 2-1 match in Los Angeles. The Galaxy looked to be the team in form in their match against the Italian winners Juventus. Juventus on the other hand appeared slow, as if the team is in the middle of finding a new attacking identity.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The first game of the night was the enticing matchup between Real Madrid and the merseyside outfit Everton FC. The line up for Real Madrid fielded a starting eleven that many viewers can potentially see as the starting squad when their campaign begins. Iker Casillas got the nod over Diego Lopez from Ancelotti and for the first 20 minutes saw little action as the Madrid midfield asserted itself on the game. The first goal was scored in the 17<sup>th</sup> minute when Mesut Ozil found Cristiano Ronaldo on the counterattack from the center circle and the Real Madrid #7 capitalized. The score by halftime (2-0) somehow didn’t justify the run of play as Everton’s Belgian duo of Marouane Fellaini and Kevin Mirallas proved to be a handful for the Madrid midfield and defense. Fellaini physically assert himself on the Real Madrid midfield, out-jumping all the Madristas to the ball and slowing down the advancing Real Madrid counter-attack. On the other end of the pitch Mirallas took the game to the Madrid defense, showing his fierce confidence to take on defenders with his quick touches. But as Everton pressed up the field it left them very vulnerable to Los Blancos counter-attack. In the 31<sup>st</sup> minute Luca Modric fed Ronaldo on the counter where he easily teed up the goal for Ozil to tap in. Although the game ended in a 2-1 victory for los Blancos, the flow of the game was indeed very balanced. Real Madrid looked very threatening on a counter-attack spearheaded by the attacking play of Ronaldo and Benzema, but they still looked suspect at the full backs with Mirallas proving to be a handful for both Marcelo and Arbeloa. Playing higher up the field left the Toffees exposed to the counter-attack, especially when playing against a tough and determined opponent. At the end of the night, Ancelotti’s Real Madrid emerged victorious, a victory that omits an air of swagger amongst the squad.<ins datetime="2013-08-09T14:24" cite="mailto:Giovani%20Franco"></ins></p>
<p> </p>
<p>Later in the night, many were graced with the matchup of the Los Angeles Galaxy against the Italian champions of Serie A, Juventus. The giants from Turin are visiting the United States for pre-season play and have based their training in San Francisco. The Galaxy was clearly the in-form team coming into the match from the middle of their season in the MLS. On the pitch that couldn’t be more evident. The Galaxy were a lot quicker, sharper and more intelligent than the off-season Italian champions. This is not to discredit Juventus however, whose new attacking pair should make them formidable contenders in Europe this campaign. That being said, Antonio Conte would do well to take note of his sides mental capacity to changing tactics, on teams that will not conform to their owndynamic of play. The Galaxy’s work rate was impeccable, pressuring the midfield outlets to disconnect Juve’s link up play with their forward players<ins datetime="2013-08-09T14:33" cite="mailto:Giovani%20Franco">. </ins>Bruce Arena, manager of the Los Angeles Galaxy, should praise his players for performing and not capitulating to a massive team with a large reputation.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The International Champion’s Cup has concluded its visit in Southern California, and it has shed some light on the spectrum of European Football. Los Blanco proved to be very menacing on the counter-attack and very intelligent when it came to soaking up the pressure from the opposing team. Forthe madristas, it is important to sure up the defense when encountering a team that possesses wingers that enjoy running at defenses. Everton, although defeated by Madrid, can take quite a few positives from the game. They showed their ability to muscle opponents on and off the ball with Fellaini marshalling the midfield and Mirallas’ capability to run at defenders forcing them to make mistakes. Roberto Martinez in the press conference after the match was quick to point out the mistakes the Toffees made, simply “by giving up the ball too cheaply, Madrid was able to capitalize on our mistakes.” Shifting to the Italian champions, despite the lost to the LA Galaxy and the remarks made by Antonio Conte in the post game press conference, the main concern is of the squad’s mental capability. Despite these matches being pre-season setups or an experimenting period, football fans can easily locate the upcoming drama for the forthcoming campaign this 2013-2014 season. </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
Gio Franco
2013-08-11T05:43:00Z
Puma's Project Pink Returns for Fourth Season
Rafa Gonzales
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Pumas-Project-Pink-Returns-for-Fourth-Season/-346731667580650943.html
2013-08-06T20:02:00Z
2013-08-06T20:02:00Z
Just yesterday <a title="Puma Football" href="http://www.puma.com/football" target="_blank">PUMA</a> announced the official launch of our breast cancer awareness program, Project Pink. <br /><br />For the past four seasons, PUMA has encouraged consumers and supporters to vote for a favored charity who will then be awarded a large donation of over $120,000 at the end of Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October. <br /><br />Donations of $1 are made every time a supporter uses #projectpink on their Twitter and now Instagram accounts. It is an incredibly easy and interactive way to make a difference! <br /><br />Please feel free to contact <a title="Send Email" href="mailto:show@worldfootballdaily.com" target="_blank">show@worldfootballdaily.com</a> with any questions.
Rafa Gonzales
2013-08-06T20:02:00Z
New manager means a new mentality at Real Madrid
Gio Franco
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/New-manager-means-a-new-mentality-at-Real-Madrid/-473991124685123853.html
2013-08-05T19:58:00Z
2013-08-05T19:58:00Z
<p>Ring in the new age, times have changed at Real Madrid and so has the attitude and morale of the current squad. The Madrid outfit currently is spending its off-season touring the United States and spending a particular amount of its time in Hollywood and UCLA. What a better location to enjoy the scenery before getting back to the stress of La Liga and their upcoming campaign with their new manager at the helm, Carlo Ancelotti. After some very enticing conferences with key players and the manager, the current feeling amongst the team is that of an uplifting one. With that being said, does this new boost in morale translate onto the field during the upcoming fight for silverware?</p>
<p> </p>
<p>After enduring an-hour-and-a-half car ride to Los Angeles, fighting the harsh traffic, and avoiding the hundreds of “fanboys” and “fangirls,” many reporters were pondering what questions to ask the players at the press conference. The first press conference was the Real Madrid captain, Iker Casillas, my fellow associates all had one question in mind but refused to ask it more than once; “How do you feel your chances are at being the starting goal keeper?” Like a professional leader Iker stated how he relishes the “competition” for a spot in the new boss’ line up. More concerning was the thought of the new arrivals, particularly Isco, and any possible new acquisitions in the upcoming future, but the captain of Real Madrid, as always, kept it professional, stating he’s “not in charge of the transfers.” For Real his focus is purely on the team and trying to break into the starting eleven. Casillas, during the press conference, was as diplomatic as one can expect from any elder statesman, when Iker was asked about the feeling around the camp with the new boss in charge. Iker was, again, poised, professional and divergent, as one can be, “I have only had so few trainings with Carlo Ancelotti, and I am not able to gauge the current sentiment with the other players.” </p>
<p> </p>
<p>Opposed to the captain Iker, who is more along the lines of a diplomat and older statesman, Sergio Ramos, the vice captain, in fact, was more easy going. With a new haircut and air of confidence, it appeared very evident that there was something a mist in the morale amongst the players. After several probing questions, one in particular aimed directly to divide the locker room, “who would you rather play next to”, depending on the response by Sergio. Ramos was calm and cool as a cucumber, simply stating, “Its not my place to say who I want to play next, but to focus on my performance on and off the field”. Other questions asked of Ramos were in regards of new arrivals to the club and the recent departures from it. When asked about the departure of Gonzalo Higuain, Sergio stated how the team would be able to recuperate from the lost of Argentinean forward. On the new arrival Isco from Malaga, Ramos praised the young Spaniard for his accolades he achieved with Malaga and the talent he can bring to the team. In all from Sergio Ramos’ responses and his demeanor amongst the press conference, one can immediately feel good sensibility and a more content football player from the Real Madrid right back.</p>
<p><br /><br />The Madrid outfit has appeared to be rid of the “burden” which seemed to be the manager from the past, Jose Mourinho. Although Jose did bring about three trophies in his three-year reign at Madrid, his tenure at the Spanish capital was always marred by controversy. Starting from the eye-poking incident on Barcelona’s Tito Villanova, the somewhat consistent send-offs by La Liga referees, and the unfortunate benching of a healthy Iker Casillas for the in-form Diego Lopez. All signs and pundits point to a massive disruption in the locker room between major players and the coach in the latter end of Real Madrid’s recent campaign. Current signs now point to calmer winds and a pleasant morale coming from the Madrista camp. With the squad observantly more jubilant and less tense, the obvious assessment would be that Carlo Ancelotti has produced a positive reaction amongst the team in regards to employment at Real Madrid. </p>
<p> </p>
Gio Franco
2013-08-05T19:58:00Z
Reinforcements from the Equator
Gio Franco
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Reinforcements-from-the-Equator/603149379619056695.html
2013-07-26T16:19:00Z
2013-07-26T16:19:00Z
<p>These are fascinating times in Chicago, the Bulls had a fair run in the NBA playoffs, the sudden collapse of Detroit financially, and now the Fire have bolstered their attack with the signing of Juan Luis Anangono. With Mike Magee's homecoming the fire still looked to invest in a young forward attacking player, which can work and adapt to multiple playing styles of the game. The signature of the 24-year-old Ecuadorian is an investment of all spheres of the beautiful game, from play on the pitch, possible shirt sales and improvement of attendance at Toyota Park. The young man from the Equator does carry a rather filling resume from his early career in the Ecuadorian League, Argentine Primera A and the National team.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Juan Luis Anangono made his professional debut in Guayaquil, Ecuador, for Sporting Club de Barcelona at age 18, in an unfortunate 1-0 defeat to Universidad Catolica. He would finish his debut season with just 10 games and not a single goal. Juan Luis finally found the back of the net in February 2010 in a 1-0 win against Olmedo, he would finish that season with 8 goals in 28 games. After a rather unpromising start for Barcelona Sporting, Juan was sent to play for El Nacional in Ecuador. While at El Nacional, Juan Luis endured a more fruitful time at El Equipo Militar de Quito; during the 2011 campaign Anangono bagged 22 goals in 45 matches for El Nacional. During his run in Ecuador Juan Luis was able to score 43 goals in 138 appearances for both El Nacional and Barcelona Sporting. In which attracted the eye of Italian side Chievo Verona. After the deal to Chievo Verona fell through, Anangono was loaned to Argentine Primera giants Argentinos Juniors.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>With the deal to Chievo stalling out of the transfer window time frame, and El Nacional loaning Anangono out Argentinos Juniors in Argentina. Anangono found himself to be at the center of what would be en exceptionally thrilling season for Argentinos. In the match against Boca Juniors, which ended as a draw at 1-1, with his golden opportunity to win the match went wide; to winning the local derby match against All Boys in the 88<sup>th</sup> minute. Even being crucial in a lost, like in the match against Atletico Rafaela with him assisting two goals and scoring a third in a 5-3 defeat. One viewpoint to this acquisition by the Chicago Fire is that will be able to adapt to life in the MLS and hopefully thrive with the partnership with either Mike Magee or Chris Rolfe. The extra option should aid coach Frank Klopas in his selection of forwards when it comes to choosing the inform forward or resting one.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>In all this signing by the Fire, in fact shows that Major League Soccer is in fact heading in the right direction. With teams investing their time and money on young players with technical skill and a strong physical display. Only points to the League's improvement and with the fair influx of these young and gifted players will only help provide temperate competition to the American players, playing with and against these foreign players. All facts aside, the introduction of Anangono to the MLS and the Chicago Fire will only benefit the Fire in squad slection and rotation; and the league with new and strong competition. </p>
<br />
Gio Franco
2013-07-26T16:19:00Z
Jurgen's new midfield Duo
Gio Franco
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Jurgens-new-midfield-Duo/-29323719379801194.html
2013-07-23T01:21:00Z
2013-07-23T01:21:00Z
The group stages are over and the quarterfinals are set and thus far the United States has more than cemented itself as the team to beat in the CONCACAF Gold Cup. The stage is set and the United States will face El Salvador, many are pondering on whom Jurgen Klinsmann selects in his squad, and with the form of Wondolowski and the unselfish play by Donovan has put this attacking duo in the spotlight. With the spotlight centered on Landon and Chris, its time to praise the unsung heroes in the midfield, the display from both Joe Corona and Jose Torres has been more than impressive. <br /><br />The midfield display against Belize was one of fair domination, against one of the minnows of Central America (no offense but its true, for CONCACAF in its entirety) was one of being able to put their foot on the gas and at the same time to take it off the accelerator and still being able to contain their opponent. There are some questions to be asked about the Stars and Stripes capability to defend on a set piece which Belize was able to capitalize on with the few opportunities they were able to create. The match with Cuba showed only one of the two starting on the pitch, Joe Corona, with Cuba taking a surprise lead early in the 1st half and the US displaying a slow pace all along the field, the choice was more than evident on who Klinsmann needed to play. At the start of the 2nd half Torres came on for Brek Shea who unfortunately looked dismal. Jose Torres once being subbed on, began to turn the screws quickly to push the US forward. With it came the eventual three goals to insure the Americans authority on the game. <br /><br />The final game of the group stages saw the replay of the hexagonal world cup qualification game USA v Costa Rica, which many had a hard time viewing due to the blizzard in the Colorado Rockies and for some dismayed the game continued, and USA emerged victorious out of the snow in Denver. With both teams booking their places in the quarterfinals both coaches saw to rest certain key players, but it did not stop the Costa Ricans from attempting to enact a form of revenge for that game in Denver. The match was in fact close and dramatic, with the apparent handball by the Costa Rican goalie outside the 18 yard box, and with both sides coming close with several attempts on goal. After both teams looking very threatening, both managers making subs, the final sub of the game came on in the 80th minute, it was for the United States and it was Joe Corona. After being on the pitch for one minute and enduring a Costa Rican attack, Corona was able to hit Landon Donovan on the break where he was able to play Brek Shea in on goal and converting the opportunity. With the game ending 1-0 and the USA continuing on with only two blemishes from the games against Belize and Cuba, the current display from Landon Donovan, Chris Wondolowski, Jose Torres, and Joe Corona; puts the United States in a very promising position continuing forward in the Gold Cup and in the World Cup Qualifying rounds ahead.
Gio Franco
2013-07-23T01:21:00Z
Neymar Stepped Up This Confederations Cup - So Did His Boots.
Rafa Gonzales
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Neymar-Stepped-Up-This-Confederations-Cup---So-Did-His-Boots./791693956587748337.html
2013-07-03T04:12:00Z
2013-07-03T04:12:00Z
The new Nike Hypervenom boot seemed to pull it's own weight when it came to delivering upon promised this Confederations Cup. Scoring in nearly every game with nearly every weapon a footballer can utilize, the new Barcelona man seemed to raise the bar with his national team performances.<br /><br />Here's the back story on new Hypervenom boots from Nike.<br /><br /><br /><iframe src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/Pm_sch1RuX8" frameborder="0" height="315" width="560"></iframe><br />
<blockquote>Brasil striker Neymar was most direct in his feedback: “Help me make space more often and more quickly. I want a boot that helps enhance my agility and gives me the space to get my shot off before I’m closed down.”</blockquote>
<span style="font-size: 13px; line-height: 1.6em;">The Hypervenom is a completely new boot created with feedback from top players including Neymar, Wayne Rooney and Zlatan Ibrahimovic. These players specified the need for a boot that could help them create space quickly in and around the penalty area, and get their shot off from any angle. They discussed the increased agility of opponents, referencing today’s defenders who are now as quick, agile and skillful as many of the world’s best forwards.</span><br /><br /><br /><iframe src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/59W937u-jxg" frameborder="0" height="315" width="560"></iframe><br />
Rafa Gonzales
2013-07-03T04:12:00Z
What else matters? Chelsea's away shirt for 2013/14
Oliver Wilson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/What-else-matters-Chelseas-away-shirt-for-2013/14/-845830445506896782.html
2013-06-06T08:55:00Z
2013-06-06T08:55:00Z
There are no men dressed in blue paint, now David Luis appearing from a pool of blue looking like an Orc from a Lord Of The Rings movie and no Fernando Torres looking like he's just walked out of a rather chaotic children's finger painting party (although Juan Mata does look like he's just been caught using some Harpic toilet cleaner while wearing his new shirt).<br /><br />No, the launch of Chelsea's new away shirt for next season has been done in a very calm and relaxed fashion, with just a couple of screenshots and a simple design that harks back to Chelsea's away shirts of the 1960's being the method of choice to release one of the best looking shirts we've seen this season.<br /><br />The thin blue and red stripes across the chest would look at home on a Netherlands away shirt while the royal blue trim placed on a white background helps the Chelsea badge, and adidas's logo and patented three stripes design stand out on the new kit.<br /><br />The shirt will be given it's freedom to be sold on the 4th of July (you see what we did there) and will cost £49.99.
Oliver Wilson
2013-06-06T08:55:00Z
New Madrid Kit for 2013/14
Oliver Wilson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/New-Madrid-Kit-for-2013/14/231620078427371092.html
2013-05-30T22:57:00Z
2013-05-30T22:57:00Z
Real Madrid have unleashed the kit they hope they'll be lifting La Decima in next season and it smells of second place.<br /><br /><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/RM_Equipacion_Home_04_00011-X4.jpg" alt="" width="312" height="193" /><br />Don't get us wrong. Here at World Football Daily we LOVE the traditional Madrid shirt. Plain white is how it should be for Los Blancos and the three Adidas stripes have almost become part of the Real Madrid family since they first arrived on the scene in 1998.<br /><br />But as the images show, there is a little bit of a silver lining theme running through next year's new shirt.<br /><br />The gold stripes from the arm of last year's shirt - a symbol of their La Liga title win the year before - have been replaced with silver ones, as is the Adidas logo on the shirts chest.<img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/HOME StadioBenzema1.jpg" alt="" width="401" height="494" /><br /><br />The new shirt that Iker Casillas (or Diego Lopez) will be wearing next year appears to have been inspired by their league rivals - and new La Liga champions - Barcelona and that horrific tequila sunrise esc away shirt from last year. Replace the orange and yellow of Barca's shirt with the purple and blue of Iker's new shirt and suddenly you'll see what we're saying.<br /><br /><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/RM_Equipacion_Home_02_00010-X5.jpg" alt="" width="149" height="197" />It's still a great shirt, and with Madrid you can never go wrong, but it does show hints of an inferiority complex to their Catalyan rivals success. Either that or they're hoping the silver that decks their shirts this year will inspire gold again for the next.
Oliver Wilson
2013-05-30T22:57:00Z
Post Season Blues - What is it and how to get through it
Oliver Wilson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Post-Season-Blues---What-is-it-and-how-to-get-through-it/-798286661989993149.html
2013-05-29T11:37:00Z
2013-05-29T11:37:00Z
<p>Monday afternoon produced one of the last meaningful games of football we’ll get to witness before a summer of staying up late for Major League Soccer and the Confederations Cup in Brazil begins. Even the lure of the German Cup is doing little to inspire many of us, or wrap us back up in football fever, with Bayern Munich’s name already penciled onto the trophy – although those of us who still believe in the magic of football will still watch and hope that Vfb Stuttgart can pull of a minor miracle and deny Bayern their much sought after treble.</p>
<p><br /> With South American, North American and the uninspiring Confederations Cup looming, many of us in Europe are beginning to fall foul of the dreaded syndrome known as PSB, Post Season Blues. Some may not realize they’re suffering with it just yet, many may be staving off the symptoms, putting their apathy down to thought of having to arrange that family holiday this summer, the economy, or the fact that Ashley Cole will be donning the captain’s armband for England against Ireland on Wednesday night. Whatever our excuses may be, most of us will eventually realize the PSB is a serious condition and we are going to be hit by it heavily this summer.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>In a study commissioned by Gillette Football Club in the final weeks of the season, Neuropsychlogist Dr David Lewis found that 73% of football fans are at a loss for things to do when the season finishes, with one in 20 of the football fans asked admitting to feeling that there is suddenly a huge void in their lives when the football season finally finishes. One in seven of the fans asked admitted to feeling utter desolation during the off-season.</p>
<p>“A<em>nyone who doubts the strength of what has been termed Post Season Blues (PSB) clearly fails to appreciate the intensity of the passions aroused by the ‘beautiful game," </em>said Dr Lewis<em>.</em></p>
<p><em>“The fans conscious mind has little or no control over the powerful emotions generated.”</em></p>
<p>Dr David Lewis goes on in his report to describes how the excitement of a hard fought match and especially their team’s victory, releases a cascade of potent ‘feel good’ chemicals coursing through the pleasure centres of the fan’s brain. Among the most powerful of these mind-altering chemicals is the neurotransmitter dopamine. This is capable of generating feelings not just of excitement but also of euphoria. As a result, when the season ends, they experience ‘withdrawal’ symptoms including agitation, irritability, anxiety and a sense of emptiness in their lives. The fan’s sleep may also be affected, with early waking becoming more common.</p>
<p>Below is a list of finding from the survey.</p>
<ul>
<li> 25% of football fans say they look forward to the start of the football season very much – rating their excitement at 10 on a scale of 1-10.</li>
</ul>
<p> </p>
<ul>
<li> In comparison, just one in ten (9%) say they really look forward to a weekend during the off season, while around one in seven (15%) rated their excitement at football-free weekend at just one, two or three.</li>
</ul>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<ul>
<li>Almost three quarters (73%) of football fans say they often find themselves looking for other things to fill their time at weekends during the off-season.</li>
</ul>
<p> </p>
<ul>
<li> More than four in ten football fans say they just feel bored during the off-season, while 14 per cent described their feelings as ‘utterly desolate’.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong> </strong></p>
<p><strong>Top five fears about the off-season</strong></p>
<ol>
<li>Not having anything to talk about with friends (16%) </li>
<li>Shopping (16%)</li>
<li>Not having an excuse to go out/go to the pub (13%)</li>
<li>Having to spend more time with their loved ones (6%)</li>
<li>Having to spend more time with their partner (6%)</li>
</ol>
<p><strong>Top five things football fans miss about the game during the off-season</strong><strong> <br /></strong></p>
<ol>
<li>Just watching it (35%)</li>
<li>Banter with friends (18%)</li>
<li>The competition (13%)</li>
<li>Socialising with friends (11%)</li>
<li>Having an excuse to go out (10%)</li>
</ol><strong>
<div><strong>Ten Symptoms of the Post Season Blues</strong></div>
</strong>
<p> </p>
<ol>
<li> Anxiety</li>
<li> Restlessness</li>
<li> Agitation</li>
<li> Irritability</li>
<li> Problems sleeping – especially early waking.</li>
<li> Difficulties with concentration</li>
<li> Depression</li>
<li> Social isolation</li>
<li> Feelings of emptiness</li>
<li> Boredom</li>
</ol>
<p>So how do we combat these feelings and how can we stop ourselves slipping into the hole that is PSB. For those who haven’t prepared for the off-season (many of us didn’t because we were too busy watching football), here are some top tips from World Football Daily on how to stave off PSB until the new season comes around.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Sky+/DVR late night football from across the globe. </strong></p>
<p>It sounds simple and it’s so effective at keeping that rush of the football season going. There’s plenty of South American football on offer in the week and at weekends I you know where to find it and as long as you make sure you sit down and watch it on a Saturday and/or Sunday during your normal football hours, your brain will be just as happy as if it were the Premier League or Serie A. The quality may not be as high, but a 3-3 draw between Real Salt Lake and the LA Galaxy will release the same endorphins as a 3-3 draw between Fulham and West Brom. You may even pick up a new team or two to follow.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Go and watch the WSL or your country’s equivalent. </strong></p>
<p>I’m new to following the Women’s game but already I have noticed two things about it. A) It’s a totally different game to the men’s and can be appreciated as a different sport rather than be compared to it, and B) the touch a skill of the players is far beyond my own skill level so how can I not be impressed.</p>
<p>It may not be as fast paced as the men’s game but you can’t deny that the women have a lot of skill. After a pulsating Olympics tournament last summer I think it’s time we all began to sit down and enjoy the Women’s Super League this off-season.</p>
<p><strong><br />Get your old Subbuteo kit out.</strong></p>
<p>Forgotten by the youth of today as they sit and play FIFA 13 or Pro Evolution Soccer, but before video games were more than just two white lines hitting a white square back and forth to each other, Subbuteo ruled the football fans kitchen table. <img style="float: right; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/DSC05427.JPG" alt="" width="234" height="174" /></p>
<p>Thanks to the custom made set we received here at World Football Daily this week, I've been inspired to bring out the two briefcases of teams, balls and goals I used to have in my bedroom at all times as a youngster and set up some epic clashes on the felt football field over a weekend. Aside from treading on one (or ten) of the small plastic players, the game was – and still is – a fantastic way to while away a few hours with a friend/parent and the skill and precision of a well powered flick to win possession, or a silky passing move leading to a goal, is far more rewarding than merely hitting the A and B buttons on a controller. </p>
<p>If you’re alone, why not set up a camera and try to recreate the greatest goals in football history, Brazil ’78 could be a good one to start with or see if you can find the technique to pull of Pele’s dummy around the keeper, but this time put it in the back of the net.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Videos and DVDs.</strong></p>
<p>When there’s no World Cup or European Cup to entertain you during the summer, what’s the next best thing to do……..? Relive all of your favourite tournaments from the past through your old DVDs and videos. A favourite of mine is <em>Every Goal of Spain ‘82</em> but other great World Cup review videos are calling your name. France ‘98 and the rise of Zidane, Mexico ’86 and Maradonna’s wonder goal, and all the gems in between. Gheorghe Hagi’s strike in USA ’94 is one of those great forgotten gems that gets over looked by ‘football’s greatest ever goal’ judging panels. It also brings back the emotion of those epic clashes where your heart was either broken or exploded with joy come the knockout stages of the tournament – I still get a tear in my eye when I see Gareth Southgate step up for that penalty miss at the end of Euro ’96 with the background noise of Wembley singing ‘footballs coming home’.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Get out and play the sport.</strong></p>
<p>This really should have been the first one on the list – especially to keep the health and fitness police at bay – but one of the great things about football is that it’s so easy to play. A cheap pair of boots for £25 and a cheap ball for a fiver means that you’re now set for a whole summer of playing the beautiful game. It may not be as ‘beautiful’ as the pros but I know that smashing in a screamer for your own local side is just as satisfying as watching someone else do it in your clubs colours. If you really need that affinity, go out and buy your team a club kit its own and wear your own name on your back with pride. And did we mention wall ball – possibly the greatest game to play when there’s no football field available. One wall, unlimited players, hit the target on the wall with one touch football. Each player has three lives and once you’re out, you’re out. The winner then starts the new game.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Become a transfer window aficionado.</strong></p>
<p>Just because the games aren’t on, doesn’t mean your side stops working. The transfer market is filled with rumours and leaks surrounding every club and you could be the guy at the bar/pub who can drop the day’s transfer-window-knowledge-bombs before your mates have had the chance to check if Jose Mourinho has arrived at Chelsea yet. All you need is a second desktop window at work with a ticker of the latest rumours and a notepad to jot down the major movers and shakers on to. You’ll be the king of the football talk, although all the research to find out who certain players are could lead to you being sacked/boring your friends to death. If your mate is a Man United fan, he’s unlikely to care who Yeovil are bringing in this season.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Start a Football Manager Season</strong></p>
<p>Possibly the most dangerous thing to do in the off-season but sometimes it can be the most rewarding, a successful Football Manager campaign can enslave the mind in a whirlwind of transfer market dealing, wage budgeting and on the pitch tactics. I myself have taken Tottenham to four league titles in five seasons, as well as three Champions League final wins in a summer, before realizing that I’d been hidden away from the outside world for so long that I was appearing on milk cartons. It’s a game that has literally caused divorces, breakups, and friend fall outs but a summer of engrossing play can be the ideal treatment to any potential PSB. Do so at your own peril.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Learn to love cricket or baseball [sigh]</strong></p>
<p>The last resort of the desperate football fan, and sometimes the toughest of them all, but turning your back on football and looking for a sporting thrill elsewhere could be the last way to stave off PSB. Those who spent the season ignoring the NBA or NHL will not be able to use the Stanley Cup or NBA Finals to ease their way into the summer of outfields, home runs, and LBWs and as a result, the idea of joining the ranks of another sporting crowd may seem scary and daunting. Those, though, who can drag themselves into the long days of test cricket, or the three hours of baseball, will find enough sporting activity to distract the mind from the dark thoughts that run through anyone’s head when the prospect of ‘no football’ arises.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Use the Gillette Football Club<br /><br /></strong>Thankfully Gillette are treating this condition just as seriously as we are and have found a way to help get over PSB. They're calling it the Gillette Football Club and they're basically compiling the best, boldest and newest football video's on YouTube into one easy to use site. <br /><br />You want to see Michael Carrick being interviewed for TalkSport? They have it. You want to watch Totti's best goals of the season? It's already there. <br /><br />Head over to<br /><a href="http://www.youtube.com/gillettefootballclub?gclid=CJ_a9LrmvbcCFZIPtAodRjoAtg"><a href="http://www.youtube.com/gillettefootballclub" target="_blank"><span>www.youtube.com/gillettefootballclub</span></a></a> or <a href="https://www.gillette.com/GilletteFootballClubPreLive/Home/Index.aspx">https://www.gillette.com/GilletteFootballClubPreLive/Home/Index.aspx</a> <br />for more.</p>
<br />
Oliver Wilson
2013-05-29T11:37:00Z
Predicting the New Breed of Footballer - The Nike Hypervenom Boot
Rafa Gonzales
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Predicting-the-New-Breed-of-Footballer---The-Nike-Hypervenom-Boot/-457701939355953358.html
2013-05-28T18:56:00Z
2013-05-28T18:56:00Z
Nike today unveiled its latest football performance innovation — the Nike Hypervenom — at an event in Rio de Janeiro with Brasil striker Neymar.<br /><br />The Hypervenom is a completely new boot created with feedback from top players including Neymar, Wayne Rooney and Zlatan Ibrahimovic. These players specified the need for a boot that could help them create space quickly in and around the penalty area, and get their shot off from any angle. They discussed the increased agility of opponents, referencing today’s defenders who are now as quick, agile and skillful as many of the world’s best forwards.<br />
<blockquote><em>Brasil striker Neymar was most direct in his feedback: “Help me make space more often and more quickly. I want a boot that helps enhance my agility and gives me the space to get my shot off before I’m closed down.”</em></blockquote>
<br />“Neymar’s input was invaluable. He had been wearing the Mercurial Vapor IX boot, a pure speed product designed to help athletes look and find space to beat a man. The Hypervenom focuses on creating the space in order to put the ball in the net. It’s a small but important nuance,” said Phil McCartney, VP Nike Football, Footwear.<br /><br /><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/HyperVenom_TECH_SHEET_large.jpg" alt="" width="603" height="430" /><br /><br /><strong>New boot for changing game</strong><br /><br />The Nike Football design team, led by Nike Football Design Director Denis Dekovic, began by looking at the attacking forces in today’s game. “The game is changing. It used to be that speed was the focus of the attacking side of the game, but now everybody has pace,” Dekovic said. “The Nike Hypervenom is a response to the way the game is changing. Players want to be quicker, not just in a foot race, but quicker with the ball at their feet in small spaces. They want to create chances from nothing. These faster, more agile defenders need to be combatted and the Hypervenom is designed to do exactly that.” <br /><br /><strong>Revolutionary NIKESKIN upper</strong><br /><br />The design team knew that the product had to re-examine the way boots were being created.<br />
<blockquote>“Traditionally a new boot will focus on an evolution of the fit, the upper material or the sole plate and stud configuration. The Hypervenom features new solutions for all of these areas,” said McCartney.</blockquote>
<br />The Hypervenom’s upper is created using the new NIKESKIN system. This execution of NIKESKIN features a soft, supple mesh bound with a thin polyurethane film, and is finished off with Nike All Conditions Control technology (ACC) to provide the same level of foot-to-ball control in both wet and dry conditions.<br /><br />“Mesh delivers an amazing level of comfort and feel. The athletes asked us to deliver a boot that gets as close as possible to the feeling of playing barefoot,” Dekovic said. “Mesh takes us a step closer to doing that and the All Conditions Control finish keeps the mesh dry.”<br /><strong><br />Perfected last and outsole</strong><br /><br />The Hypervenom also features a new foot last, removing excess materials to place the foot closer to the ground and ball. It is Nike’s most anatomical last to date. <br /><br />Nike worked with some of the world’s top podiatrists to create a decoupled outsole that increases the player’s ability to make that important first step away from the defender. A groove in the forefoot helps to quickly activate the first metatarsal, the bone that defines reaction time of the foot’s first movement.<br /><br /><iframe src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/WYVeAFAZ0ac" frameborder="0" height="315" width="560"></iframe><br /><br />The chassis of the outsole features compressed nylon for a high-response plate that helps deliver strength while being incredibly light. The stud configuration and length is designed to allow for faster penetration of the surface, and ultimately a quicker release – all innovations designed to help players create space faster than ever before.<br /><br />The new Nike Hypervenom will debut on June 2 in the Brasil v. England match on the feet of Neymar and Wayne Rooney. Other players set to wear the boot include Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Robert Lewandowski and Danny Welbeck.<br /><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Nike_Hypervenom_Prof_large.jpg" alt="" width="491" height="350" />
Rafa Gonzales
2013-05-28T18:56:00Z
Puma Celebrates the Borussia Dortmund Season and Accomplishments
Rafa Gonzales
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Puma-Celebrates-the-Borussia-Dortmund-Season-and-Accomplishments/-191482043896400170.html
2013-05-28T16:36:00Z
2013-05-28T16:36:00Z
<p>PUMA served up a musical surprise for the Borussia Dortmund players today to demonstrate their pride for the 2013 UEFA Champions League™ finalists. A team of 30 musicians, singers and dancers were waiting in disguise to put a smile back on the faces of the team as they arrived at London Stansted airport to return home. Upon entering the terminal, a rousing rendition of<em> Movin’ On Up</em> by Primal Scream erupted into a choreographed flashmob. </p>
<p>The players were taken completely by surprise as the impromptu song kicked off around them, acknowledging Borussia Dortmund’s thriling performances in Europe’s most prestigious football competition this season. </p>
<p>Marco Reus said, "We got to the airport exhausted, still very emotional from the night before. We had no idea this was coming, when one guy stood up and started making some strange noises with his mouth we thought he was crazy. But we realised it was an arranged thing for us, and were overwhelmed! We were so disappointed not to win at Wembley last night and finish this incredible season on a high, but this definitely reminded us that we should not be too down and we have still done well. Our thanks go to PUMA for arranging this nice surprise."</p>
<p>Terence Parris, Head of Marketing Teamsport at PUMA, said, "We are so proud of Borussia Dortmund for the way they have played this season. Their commitment to playing thrilling football, entertaining the world as they reached the Champions League final, was really special. We wanted to arrange something fun that demonstrated our support and delight in their incredible performances this year, and remind them that they are very much Champions in the eyes of both us and the BVB fans."</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
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Rafa Gonzales
2013-05-28T16:36:00Z
Puma Steps Up Their Boot Game With The evoSPEED 1.2 FG
Rafa Gonzales
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Puma-Steps-Up-Their-Boot-Game-With-The-evoSPEED-1.2-FG/-454210720157927212.html
2013-05-16T04:52:00Z
2013-05-16T04:52:00Z
I think we all know it. It's going to be a busy Summer. We're seeing drastic changes coming from all across the sport, and the equipment side of the game is no different.<br /><br />Today, May 15th, 2013 Puma Football launched the new evoSPEED 1.2 FG. And for the first time in a long time, a sports manufacturing company has really remodeled, re-tooled, rebooted one of their performance boot lines to bring a fresh look with superior technology. <br /><br />In the official Press Release, Puma made sure to point out that "for the first time ever, the boot features the PUMA brand name on the inner side of the boot instead of the formstripe - the brand's iconic trademark. "<br /><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/102883_01_profile-inside.jpg" alt="" /><br />To be honest, many will point to this as a "Nike" copy-cat tactic, and they very well could be right. But style is style my friends. If you want to try and hate on the boot for that purpose, be my guest. In reality, any one who plays the game and truly tests the boot out, they will be impressed.<br /><br /><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/_DJ28252.jpg" alt="" />The color scheme: Black and fluorescent yellow. The boot itself is said to be "inspired by the shape of muscles, tendons and the smooth curves of a race car".<br /><br />Just looking at the profile of the boot, one can instantly see the race car inspired look and I know I personally saw some inspiration drawn from Puma's performance racing shoes too. <br /><br />"Finishing touches are the transparent dotted print on the vamp for better grip in wet conditions, and small details in fluorescent blue that complement the striking look" states the Puma Press Release.<br /><br />The boot looks sick. As some one who plays, I could not wait to test these boots out. I literally left my other job early to rush home and put these boots on. I joked on twitter saying that just looking at these boots made me feel a few steps faster. <br /><br />Lightweight, but sturdy, these boots feel like not only can they take you past your quickest competition, but it can get stuck in the toughest challenges with your hardest opponents and come out on top. <br /><br />The skin of the boot feels stronger than that of your average speed booth which tends to feature super thin material that last a matter of a couple months, not seasons. With out question, I feel like this boot could easily go a two season or more. At the same time, you don't feel like the boot is uncomfortable or stiff.<br /><br />One of my favorite boots from memory were my Puma V1.08. They were light, but rugged and they lasted me forever. Plus, they looked so fly, that the style of the boot would still look sick today. The boot introduced me to the Puma specific heel-cup style. Unfortunately, I have feet that are a bit large for the game and so my heel always felt like it was being cupped a little low from the boot. So when I got this boot in the mail, I was really interested to see how the heel-cup would feel. Sure enough, snug as a bug. The way the new evoSPEED wraps around your feet, you feel connected or locked into your boot; literally an extension of your feet.<br /><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/TomO_Clichy_210213_shot3_1126.jpg" alt="" /><br />The chassis of the boots is a really cool feature for me as well. A proper speed boots needs to make it's player feel like he or she is being propelled forward with each push of the ground. When you push off to sprint in these boots, you feel like a spring that's just popped, released and whipped forward. <br /><br />The stud pattern was also something I was particularly interested in because I noticed without he Puma Kings which released earlier this year, I felt like the rubber tipped studs tended to feel sticky in the ground. Fortunately, the evoSPEED 1.2 does not have this issue. In no way did I feel hindered by the studs, their pattern or depth. In fact, where most speed boots lack in traction, I found this boot had more than sufficient traction in all types of grass and condition.<br /><br />Overall, I can't express how impressed I am with this boot. I love that Puma took a line of their boots and went to a new place with it. They didn't just tweak a couple color combos and minor details here and there. They made notable changes that positively affect the boot.<br /><br />You'll see this boot this weekend on the feet of Puma footballers Sergio Aguero, Radamel Falcao, Olivier Giroud, and many more.<br /><br />You can buy these boots in stores around the globe come June 1st, 2013.<br /><br />If you're a member to World Football Daily, you can win them before you can buy them. Just keep listening for your chance to win.
Rafa Gonzales
2013-05-16T04:52:00Z
Celebrating 15 Years of the Nike Mercuriial
Rafa Gonzales
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Celebrating-15-Years-of-the-Nike-Mercuriial/54971927889341943.html
2013-05-06T19:11:00Z
2013-05-06T19:11:00Z
<p>In 1998 Nike launched the first Mercurial football boot — a shoe inspired by and designed for an athlete who was playing an entirely new brand of football. The player was Brasilian football phenomenon Ronaldo Luís Nazário de Lima, popularly dubbed "<em style="color: #000000; font-family: sans-serif; line-height: 19.1875px;">El Fenómeno</em>," but more commonly known as Ronaldo.</p>
<p>The tagline for the Nike Mercurial launch ad campaign, “<em>Ultralight, so your legs can be as fast as your imagination,</em>” spoke to Ronaldo's unbelievable creativity and speed. Ronaldo not only captured the imagination with his style, speed, skill and instictive eye for a goal, but he also helped reignite the reputation of Brasilian football. His influence continues to guide exceptional players like Neymar as they <span style="line-height: 1.6em;">follow in his footsteps.</span></p>
<p>Ronaldo is closely associated with the original silver-yellow-blue Nike Mercurial he wore in France during the summer of 1998. Among a field of black and white, the Nike Mercurial stood out for it's sleek shape and colourful, speed-inspired visual design. To celebrate 15 years of the iconic boot, Nike has created a Mercurial Vapor IX inspired by the 1998 design.</p>
<blockquote>“Ronaldo’s impact on the game 15 years ago was immense, and in the run up to 2014, we wanted to celebrate that boot and the man himself. We thought a modern construction of his 1998 boot would be a great commemoration of that moment.” said Phil McCartney, VP of Football Footwear for Nike.</blockquote>
<br /><img style="float: right; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Mercurial_Vapor_XI_SE_Top_large.jpg" alt="" width="298" height="212" />“In the years since the first Mercurial boot was created, modern construction has allowed for a more refined way of making boots. For example, the original version of this boot was constructed of multiple materials stitched together, McCartney elaborated. "This version is a one-piece, seamless upper as per other Nike Vapor Mercurial IX editions.
<p>In addition to rethinking the construction, the team approached the boot with a 2013 visual in mind. The yellow from the 1998 version is replaced by the distinctive Volt hue that became synonymous with Nike design on the running track in London last summer. The original silver is updated with a metallic finish.</p>
<p>1,998 pairs of the Mercurial IX Special Edition will be available from May 8 at select retailers around the world, including <a href="http://www.nike.com">nike.com</a>.</p>
<p> </p>
<iframe src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/Aba0MYS4nEY" frameborder="0" height="315" width="560"></iframe>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p>(Courtesy of NikeInc.com)</p>
Rafa Gonzales
2013-05-06T19:11:00Z
Coming Soon from Puma Football - The evoSPEED 1.2
Rafa Gonzales
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Coming-Soon-from-Puma-Football---The-evoSPEED-1.2/-459089395062498009.html
2013-04-30T22:21:00Z
2013-04-30T22:21:00Z
We were teased some yesterday here at World Football Daily. Puma Football sent us a video that starred Atletico Madrid forward Radamel Falcao kicking a football dipped in what looked like pink paint. <br /><br />Well, today we got the full video which has Falcao blasting shots against a blank white canvas with balls dipped in pastel colored paints. The end of the video shows what looks like a blotchy red and pink outline of their evo-boot.<br /><br />I will say that the video does reflect a little influence from the CFC Blue Kit Campaign with several players dipped in blue paint, but really who's to say who originated the whole paint idea.<br /><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/evoSPEED 1.2 Camo 2.jpg" alt="" /><br />This weekend on the pitch, Puma stars Sergio Aguero and Radamel Falcao will be rocking the new evoSPEED 1.2 Camo boot in their respective matches. Basically, they will be flashing a preview of the boot to be released this May 15th, so try to catch a Manchester City match or a Atletico Madrid game if you want to see the new boots in action.<br /><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/evoSPEED 1.2 Camo 3.jpg" alt="" /><br />In my personal opinion, I think it's a very interesting take on the definition of the word "Camo". I'm not sure where they thought Pink and Red dots of various sizes spread across a boot would blend you in any where on the pitch. If anything, I'm thinking you stand out more! But, trying to reach some with my reasoning, perhaps their thought was that when you're running at pace, perhaps the colors blur to fade into the surrounding atmosphere. I don't know. <br /><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/evoSPEED 1.2 Camo 4.jpg" alt="" /><br />Regardless, I think these boots are still built for speed. The "Camo" print won't slow you down any. Perhaps it distracts your opponent to make them a step or two slower? Again, I could be stretching it there, but no one is getting hurt. Credit to player who confidently steps onto the pitch and puts one or two past you in these. Just think of the mind games that plays on a defender who got beat by these boots.<br /><br /><span style="font-family: sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"> </span><iframe src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/wTdmYsQvsSw" frameborder="0" height="315" width="560"></iframe>
Rafa Gonzales
2013-04-30T22:21:00Z
Boateng Bros Take it to the Concrete of Berlin
Rafa Gonzales
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Boateng-Bros-Take-it-to-the-Concrete-of-Berlin/874435386103790279.html
2013-04-29T23:11:00Z
2013-04-29T23:11:00Z
The Panke, a concrete football court located next to the Panke River in Wedding, Berlin, is the hometown court for the Brothers Boateng. Recently, the three brothers reunited at their hometown court as part of Nike Football's #MyGround campaign to look back at where they all honed their skills and feel in love with the game.<br /><br />"I owe everything to the Panke," said the Milan star Kevin-Prince Boateng.<br /><br />Growing up in Berlin, Kevin-Prince, Jerome, and George would play at the Panke around the clock. "The Panke had a strong influence on us as brothers - small-sided football made us better football players, but also brought us together as brothers. It's very cool to feel the atmosphere here again and pass it on," said K-P.<br /><br />The event saw the brother's rocking the new Nike FC247 collection, which included the Nike Lunar Gato II (my personal favorite) and the Elastico Finale II.<br /><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Su13_GFB_FTBL_Gato_Concrete_Profile_large.jpeg" alt="" /><br />Launching in a distinctive blue and yellow color combo, the Nike Lunar Gato show is designed for a fast and dynamic game. The supple leather upper improves ball-to-foot feel and eliminates a break-in period. Fused mesh panels lock down the midfoot to maximize lateral support and gives the Lunar Gato II the perfect balance of lightweight and comfort. (Where have I heard that before?)<br /><br />A dynamic green design marks out the Nike Elastico Finale II, which features 39% fewer components and is 22% lighter than the previous show. The more flexible outsole, designed hard-court surfaces, features a herringbone and dot design to help maximize traction and improve underfoot ball control. The Elastico Finale II also features a breathable perforated upper and heel, and a redesigned eyestay to optimize comfort and feel.<br /><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Su13_GFB_FTBL_Elastico_Court_Profile_large.jpeg" alt="" /><br /><br />Check out the video from the event below.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><iframe src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/PwxeaVfT4eg" frameborder="0" height="315" width="560"></iframe>
Rafa Gonzales
2013-04-29T23:11:00Z
According to Puma - Falcao is preparing something for you...
Rafa Gonzales
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/According-to-Puma---Falcao-is-preparing-something-for-you.../595817615473681034.html
2013-04-29T19:08:00Z
2013-04-29T19:08:00Z
Puma football has been really ramping up their push for the 2014 World Cup in Brazil. We have it on insider information that they plan to launch a very special release come May 2nd. We can't really be sure as to what the release is all about, but it's our guess that we may be seeing a new model boot for the Atletico Madrid striker. At least, that is what we gathered from the video below.<br /><br />Again, what ever the brilliant Colombian is pimping, we're in all the way. <br /><br />Check out the teaser video below!<br /><br /><br /><iframe src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/rysHKtKiuyg" frameborder="0" height="315" width="560"></iframe>
Rafa Gonzales
2013-04-29T19:08:00Z
Fashion Forward Azzurri Shirt from Puma
Rafa Gonzales
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Fashion-Forward-Azzurri-Shirt-from-Puma/983621440882701901.html
2013-04-26T00:02:00Z
2013-04-26T00:02:00Z
Knowing the connection between Italy and Brazil when it comes to World Cups and general International play, you can bet your behind that there was a ton of thought and work that went into this kit from Puma. You could make the argument that Italy is one of Puma's biggest clients/partners, so the sporting good outfitter is surely taking this particular kit extra serious.<br /><br />"It's a bolder evolution of past shirts" says Puma.<br /><br />"Flourescent blue piping and colored cuffs provide a fresh take on the team's signature hue as well as the national flag of Italy"<br /><br />All this was meant to really unify the team, and the nation, in their pursuit of their fifth star on the badge.<br /><br /><img style="float: left; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Giorgio Chiellini_3.jpg.jpg" alt="" width="146" height="190" />The shirt's general design took into consideration the heritage of Italian football, as well as the current player's physical qualities. Basically, the shirt is not just fashionable on the studly Italians, but it's functional as well.<br /><br />Here's the tech behind it-<br /><br /><em>The official team shirt is made of recycled polyester and Cocona (an activated carbon made from coconut shells) to provide a superior level of comfort and moisture management. The official team replica shirt is made of 100% recycled polyester.</em><br /><br />Lucky for you, the shirt is already made available. Yes, you too can look as stylish as Chiellini or Diamanti.<br /><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Alessandro Diamanti_2.jpg.jpg" alt="" width="697" height="964" /><br />
Rafa Gonzales
2013-04-26T00:02:00Z
The Mid-Week Ramble
Oliver Wilson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/The-Mid-Week-Ramble/338697392667564603.html
2013-04-25T21:54:00Z
2013-04-25T21:54:00Z
<strong>Can Everybody Take A Deep Breath……….. And Relax</strong>
<p><strong> </strong></p>
<p>It’s been very easy this week to get caught up in the hysteria of a week that has seen German football go from being the football equivalent of Indy Car, to joining the ranks of Formula 1.</p>
<p> <!--more--></p>
<p>Before this season it’s safe to say that German football was, in the grand scale of European football, sat in third place behind Spanish and English football with many still believing that Serie A was still the third ranked League in the UEFA spectrum.</p>
<p><br /> Germany was considered a one team league by many, with Bayern Munich being the side everybody “knew” about, while Dortmund, despite their two Bundesliga titles in two years was the team who ‘can’t attract big enough players to be considered a potential Champions League contender’. That, in part, was true, with Bayern willing to splash the cash on players such as Mario Mandzukic and Javi Martinez, while Dortmund were a side who had lost Shinji Kagawa to Manchester United and had brought in a youngster called Marco Reus who the rest of Europe had only begun to learn about with his fleeting appearances for Germany in Euro 2012 last summer. </p>
<p> </p>
<p>Dortmund, though, didn’t want to spend big having almost gone bankrupt in 2005. The clubs owners and fans knew how close they’d come to losing their beloved club (including taking a loan from Bayern Munich in 2003) and the model that had brought them to prominence in the Bundesliga for the last two years was deemed suitable to mount a European challenge this year. They were right.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>With Bayern’s dominance this season on all fronts and Dortmund flexing their muscles in the Champions League, it’s been easy to get caught up in the whirlwind of the two clubs achievements, especially their dominance over Spain’s best this week.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>But there are questions that need to be answered.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>First, does anyone remember Malaga? The Spanish side aren’t held in as high regard as La Liga’s top two clubs, but of all the Spain v Germany ties in the Champions League this year, they have come closest to knocking a side out. If Dortmund hadn’t stumbled and bumbled their way past Malaga, would we be talking about a German dominance of European football, or just the monstrous Munich.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Secondly, what happens when Gotze and others leave Dortmund? Kagawa left for Manchester United and may regret it if his former club lift Europe’s ultimate prize this season, but that doesn’t mean it didn’t happen. Gotze has gone, lured by the panache of Pep [Guardiola] and Lewandoski is apparently off to Manchester United, Bayern Munich or possibly Paris Saint Germain. If this dram team gets broken up, then how will Dortmund replace these players, and who else will follow them out the front door. Reus in 12-months, Matt Hummels, Kuba Blaslksfdhajh-ski? Dortmund’s time could be now and only now. With Andre Schurrle reportedly leaving Bayern Leverkusen along with Stefan Kiebling, and Luis Holtby having already left Schalke, some of Germany’s other top stars could be on their way out of the league. Let the feeding frenzy of the Europe’s big money spenders begin.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Thirdly, Germany haven’t overtaken Spain in international football……..yet.</p>
<p>4-0 up against Sweden at halftime in a World Cup qualifier and Germany were cruising. 45 minutes later, Zlatan Ibrahimovich and co were on level terms while Joachim Low was sat scratching his head wondering what just happened?</p>
<p>Germany on the international stage have had an uncanny ability of fumbling the football at the 10-yard-line. Flopping to Italy last summer, dropping out to Holland at World Cup 2010 and generally just being unable to topple Spain despite being tipped for success in almost every tournament they enter means one thing. Germany’s club sides are rolling at the moment, but World Cup 2014 will be the first chance to truly turn football’s tide in their favour.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Finally, isn’t there still 90 minutes of football left? If any two sides can turn around a 3 or 4 goal deficit Barca and Real Madrid can. An away goal in Dortmund and Barca’s thumping of Milan in the Camp Nou still fresh in our memory, we all need to wait at least a week before we announce German football as the ultimate club league. It’s never over till it’s over.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Biting Back</strong></p>
<p> </p>
<p>Liverpool Football Club have shot themselves in the foot once again with Luis Suarez. The human Rottweiler was given a 10-game ban on Tuesday for gnawing on Branislav Ivanovic and, rather then keeping their mouth shut, Liverpool have described the ban as excessive. <br /> <br /> Lets remind ourselves that Eric Cantona was given a 9-month ban for a kick to a fan, while Mike Tyson has been was away form boxing for a year. All things considered, Saurez’s 10-game ban was a lucky escape for the habitual breaker of social rules, constructs and order. </p>
<p> </p>
<p>The police could still get involved with the incident while children under the age of 6 are being told off for doing exactly what a man 20-years older then them is doing. Liverpool should be happy it’s just 10 games, meanwhile the FA might now be forced to answer the question ‘so is biting someone worse then being racist on a football field?’</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Milan Needs Its Men Back</strong></p>
<p><strong> </strong></p>
<p>Mario Balotelli has been gone from the AC Milan lineup for the last two fixtures against Napoli and Juventus and with their hitman missing, Milan look a little lost and confused upfront. Since his arrival Mario has been a demon in front of goal, and the rest of the flock appears to have lost their way without their attacking shepherd.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Meanwhile, across the city, Andrea Stramaccioni is missing all his men. The injury crisis continues for Inter Milan and Andrea’s time is, according to some, ticking away. The potential short term gain of bringing in a new manager to deal with a team that’s merely suffering from an injury crisis, (Zdenic Zemen anyone?) the long term loss will be losing a manager who might actually be able to mold Inter into a Dortmund type side. Young, cheap and building for the future, Inter, in a few seasons could be reaching for the stars and it’s unlikely they’ll be left floundering like a more fashion conscious Aston Villa.</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
Oliver Wilson
2013-04-25T21:54:00Z
Suarez Takes Liverpool Through Heaven and Hell......... Again
Oliver Wilson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Suarez-Takes-Liverpool-Through-Heaven-and-Hell.........-Again/-323358964733726549.html
2013-04-21T20:31:00Z
2013-04-21T20:31:00Z
<p>Luis Suarez has taken Liverpool on his heaven and hell roller-coaster once more as he shocked the footballing world with his bite on Branislav Ivanovic before scoring the last minute equalizer for against Chelsea in a thrilling game of Sunday Premier League football.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>There is no place in the English Premier League, or football in general, for the antics displayed by Suarez at Anfield .</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The Uruguayan striker, who seems to carry controversy with him where ever he goes, surely crossed the line – and not for the first time since his arrival in England– when he appeared to bite Ivanovic on the arm and now Liverpool should be looking at moving a player, who has dragged the illustrious name of the club through the mud on a number of occasions, to pastures new.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Unfortunately – and sadly in my opinion – this just wont happen and the Liverpool #7 could well be back on a football pitch for The Reds next season, or possibly next week.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Liverpool need Luis Suarez. They need him like they need a hole in the head but they also need him on the pitch providing the world-class quality that he brings to a game when the ball is at his feet. Suarez has found the back of the net 30 times this season and scored the vital equalizer against Chelsea on Sunday. His 23 strikes in the Premier League this season have been the lynchpin to the growth and success Brendan Rodgers has been able to find with his new club, and Suarez is one of the few players in the world who more often then not appears unstoppable on a football pitch. Many have even said that he is the one player in the Premier League that can be compared to Lionel Messi or Cristiano Ronaldo.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>This quality, this incredible talent that Suarez holds is too important to Liverpool football club to lose and the thought a rival club taking control of that talent is something both the club’s manager and board can ill afford to see happen. In a football world ruled by financial prowess, Liverpool must get back into the Champions League and Luis is the man who has had those hopes placed upon his shoulders. As a financial asset to the club, as a moneymaking commodity, he is just too valuable to lose. </p>
<p> </p>
<p>But is it worth a club flexing their morals in order to achieve their dream of returning to the top of English football. This is, after all, a club whose fans have campaigned for years for justice surrounding the Hillsborough disaster. Wouldn’t justice for Suarez be being banned, fined, and sacked or transferred?</p>
<p> </p>
<p>His creativity and class has never been in question but his attitude to the game and his willingness to do whatever it takes to win has. Diving, fighting, fouling, and the allegations and eventual ban for using racist insults on the football pitch have all followed Suarez around his time in the Premier League and the striker has gathered few supporters for his manner and approach to the game outside the Anfield faithful, so much so that there is debate whether he will win the Player of the Year award this season despite being selected as one of the final six nominees along with Gareth Bale, Robin van Persie, Juan Mata, Eden Hazard and Michael Carrick.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>He even has a history of biting his fellow professionals on the pitch. IN his final game for his previous club Ajax, Suarez bit PSV Eindhoven’s Otman Bakkal on the shoulder, resulting in a two game ban from the club and a seven game ban form the Dutch FA. Before he returned to the Amsterdam ArenA he was shipped off to Liverpool on the final day of the January transfer window.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The use of racist language towards Patrick Evra was not enough to see him walked out of the doors of Anfield though, and the club actively backed their forward during the FA inquest and right through his time away on the sidelines as he served his ban. It hardly seems likely that Liverpool will throw the book at Suarez for doing his best rabid dog impression on the Chelsea defender although we can at least hope that the FA will ban him for at least the remainder of the season retrospectively.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>If his club do start to throw the book at him is the message being sent out that Liverpool Football Club will back and support a player when he’s being investigated for racially abusing a player, but it’s not ok to bite someone? It’s hardly a sentiment a club of its stature wants to give off.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>They have, at least, broken their initial silence on Sunday's incident, with Brendan Rodgers saying that the players actions were unacceptable while the clubs Managing Director Ian Ayre has said,</p>
<p> </p>
<blockquote>
<p>"His behaviour is not befitting of any player wearing a Liverpool shirt and Luis is aware that he has let himself and everyone associated with the club down. We will deal with the matter internally and await any action from the FA."</p>
</blockquote>
<p> </p>
<p>For all the beauty he brings to the game, Luis Suarez continues to make life hellish for those behind the scenes of his club. He continues to cause trouble and cheat on the pitch, but he still brings those essential appearances on a football field that Liverpool need to grow as a club. There are two sides to this coin and Liverpool need to decide quickly whether they want this heaven and hell nightmare to continue.</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
Oliver Wilson
2013-04-21T20:31:00Z
Chelsea Feeling Blue As 2013-14 Home Kit Is Released
Oliver Wilson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Chelsea-Feeling-Blue-As-2013-14-Home-Kit-Is-Released/263179652853918897.html
2013-04-18T10:31:00Z
2013-04-18T10:31:00Z
<p><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Blue is the colour, of course, as some of Chelsea’s biggest stars model the London club’s new home kit for the coming 2013-14 season.</p>
<p>With their ‘reigning European Champions’ title long gone from above their head, Chelsea will no longer be sporting their golden Adidas stripes and badge for their 2013-14 campaign, instead reverting back to the ‘traditional’ club crest colours that were branded onto the shirt back in 2006, and the white trim last seen 12 months ago on their trail to European glory.</p>
<p>The shirt is far smarter than the slightly garish blue and gold attire from this season - a sign, maybe, that less is more after the spiral down European football’s proverbial ladder that the Stamford Bridge faithful have had to watch – with a neat white stripe on the sleeve cuffs and around the v-neck of the shirt being the only discernible patches of colour aside from the kit sponsors patented three-stripe design.</p>
<p>Fans may also be pleased to see the man stood next to Gary Cahill in the centre of the picture is, of course, Fernando Torres who even after a fairly poor season (poor by £50 million transfer fee status) has managed to get himself in as one of the poster boys for the new kit. A sign that Fernando is staying put at Cheslea?</p>
<p> </p>
<p> We’ll find out in the summer.</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
Oliver Wilson
2013-04-18T10:31:00Z
The Mid-Week Ramble
Oliver Wilson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/The-Mid-Week-Ramble/100430613067641975.html
2013-04-17T22:30:00Z
2013-04-17T22:30:00Z
<p><strong>Inter Can’t Catch A Break [Or Are Catching Too Many] As All Roads Lead To Rome.</strong></p>
<p> </p>
<p>It’s been a rough couple of months for Andrea Stramaccioni and his Inter Milan side. The former Roma and Inter Youth coach was given the top job this time last year at the Nerazzurri with instruction to bring through a young, inexpensive squad that can get into Europe and challenge the top clubs in Italy, even Juventus.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>His first full season in the hot seat began well and we were raving at their aggressive, attacking performances in the early part of the season, culminating in a win against the The Old Lady herself, breaking Juventus’ 49 game unbeaten streak away in Turin.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>That night in November seems a long long time ago as injuries, suspensions and unconvincing performances now see Stramaccioni’s side hurtling down away from the European places and on their way to a mid-table finish.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Their last six league encounters have seen them take just six points with losses coming against Bologna, Juventus, Atalanta and Calgari, while their injury list continues to pile up.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Out are the goal scorers Rodrigo Palacio, Diego Milito and Antonio Cassano. Gone are the creative sparks of Dejan Stankovic and Yuto Nagatomo along with five other key members of their dwindling squad. On Wednesday night, against a Roma side whose newfound form under Aurelio Andreazzoli has breathed new life into their quest for European football, you just knew that Inter were going to struggle.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The football gods are cruel and can kick even the toughest fighters when their chips are down as Inter found themselves in trouble before the match even began in mid-week. Esteban Cambiasso’s injury in the warm-up was just another name to add to the injury pile at the San Siro as Jonathan replaced the Argentinian late before the kickoff.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Cambiasso’s stand-in opened the scoring after 22 minutes for the home side to pull them level on aggregate with their guests but over 90 minutes, Roma were too strong. Mattia Destro, who was rested on the weekend after his return from injury that kept him out of the side for three months, bagged a brace in a excellent performance against his old club while Michael Bradley and Danielle Di Rossi dominated the midfield. Vasilis Torosidis’ wonderful strike added Roma’s third, before Ricky Alvarez pulled a late goal back for Stramaccioni’s side 10 minutes from time.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>With Roma booking their place in the Coppa Italia final against their local rivals Lazio, Inter fans may be relieved to have the opportunity to focus their time and efforts on a late revival in the league and hope to pip both the sides from the capital city to 5<sup>th</sup> place in Serie A.</p>
<p><br /> Their final fixtures, though, could leave Inter floundering in Italy’s top flight as they take on a difficult Parma side this weekend, with Napoli, Lazio and Udinese all taking on the Italian giants in their last six fixtures of the 2012/13 season. Inter could be falling quicker then Gareth Bale when someone thinks about sticking a leg out at him.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Happy 100<sup>th</sup> David Luiz and The Joe Breaks Wigan’s Hart.</strong></p>
<p><strong> </strong></p>
<p>Some love him, some hate him, but whatever your thoughts on the man’s ability in Chlesea’s back four; you can’t deny that David Luiz sure knows how to hit the target.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>In his 100<sup>th</sup> game for Chelsea against Fulham on Wednesday, Luiz marked his century mark with a 35-yard screamer that any centre forward would be proud to call their own. If you can think of a better goal scored by a player on their 100<sup>th</sup> game, we’d love to hear it.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Elsewhere in the Premier League this mid-week we were treated to a preview of what the FA Cup final could be like this year and those who doubt that Wigan can put up a fight against Manchester City were pleasantly surprised as the Latics were denied a point (or three) by the hands of Joe Hart.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Hart, whose come under a lot of criticism this season after some poor decisions for both club and country have cost his sides dearly [not to mention a <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BQel8rz6Kxo" target="_blank">disastrous shampoo advert in the UK</a>], but his saves on Wednesday night that included an incredible stop to deny Franco Di Santo showed that Joe, in crunch time, can be one the worlds top keepers. Wigan, though, showed enough courage, quality and battle to worry City and those around them in the relegation battle. They have a habit of raising their game against the big boys late in the season, as we saw last year with their wins against United and Arsenal in the final weeks of the season, and Premier League safety and an FA Cup final victory are not beyond the realms of possibility this year. Roberto Martinez could turn disaster in delirium.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Technology</strong></p>
<p><strong> </strong></p>
<p>Goal line technology is pointless unless it paves a way for more technology to be introduced into our beautiful game. Once again on Wednesday night we saw another goal that, was there such a thing as offside technology, would have been disallowed and potentially have handed West Ham United three points at Upton park against Manchester United. </p>
<p> </p>
<p>While Sam Allardyce may find it funny how decisions such as Robin van Persie’s debatable offside position seem to go United’s way more often then not, many of use were sat at our TV screens yelling “this decision effects a game 10x more often then a debatable ‘did the ball cross the line’ goal”.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Unfortunately for FIFA, they have now opened the floodgates for the introduction of more review systems, artificial officials and technology devices in the game, and must find a way to sort out what modern technology can and can’t be used for, as well as finding a way to implement them into the game. Challenge flags? Timeouts? Post-match disallowed goals? Personally, I like the NFL’s approach of two challenges per game. 30 seconds to review a decision can be added on to stoppage time and we can all go home happier knowing that the right result has been played out.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Treble Her We Come</strong></p>
<p> </p>
<p>Manchester United did it in 1999, Barcelona did it in 2009 and Inter Milan did it in 2010. The T word is back on the lips of European football as Bayern Munich booked their place in the DFB Pokal Cup Final on Tuesday, and with only Barcelona standing in their path to a trip to the Champions League final at Wembley in May, it’s time to ask how this Bayern side matches up to out three other treble winners.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Before we decide, let us know your thoughts at World Football Daily via the email (<a href="mailto:show@worldfootballdaily.com">show@worldfootballdaily.com</a>), twitter (<a href="https://twitter.com/WFootballDaily" target="_blank">@WFootballDaily</a>) or down the rant line [+1 (310) 909 8483]. We’ll be letting you know our thoughts later in the week.</p>
Oliver Wilson
2013-04-17T22:30:00Z
The Mid-Week Ramble
Oliver Wilson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/The-Mid-Week-Ramble/-749135607399661053.html
2013-03-29T13:29:00Z
2013-03-29T13:29:00Z
<p>Seeing as our football viewing schedule was changed with due to the international break, we here at WFD took it upon ourselves to alter our own schedule. So here, a little later then normal, is the mid-week ramble.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>International weeks. The American Dream or Depressingly English?</strong></p>
<p> </p>
<p>So with the international break over are many of us surprised about what’s happened over the last 12 days. It looked as though the US Men’s National Team was going to be swimming in a sea of adversity when the stories of disharmony and disruption between the ranks started to leak out of camp before their fixture against Costa Rica.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The stories, though, made little difference to the fortunes of the side as Jurgen Klinsmann and his men came away with four points from their two games, including a monumental point against Mexico in the Azteca. While gaining four points form the two fixtures may not seem like a massive achievement to some, the context of the results shows just how far the USMNT has come.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>An injury plagued US side 10 years ago would surely have been torn apart by Mexico in the Azteca, but lead by the determination of Michael Bradley, Omar Gonzalez and Geoff Cameron the USA rallied - in what many would call ‘true American style – dispel the naysayers and come relieve the mounting pressure on their under fire manager.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The fact that nine of the 23 man squad selected by Jurgen are MLS based players shows the leap the league has made at bringing through international talent, and along with the quality provided by Graham Zusi, Eddie Johnson and Brad Davis, America soccer fans can be safe in the knowledge that US soccer is still moving onwards and upwards in it’s development.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>On the other side of the spectrum, England and they’re miserable second half performance against Montenegro once again sees a good manager under fire while sat in the international hot seat. With the group still in their hands, Hodgson and his men can still finfish top and automatically qualify without going through the perilous process of the playoffs and all in the England camp were keen to highlight this as they spoke to the media on Tuesday night. Few, though, highlighted the fact that England have a major problem at getting the best out of it’s supposed talent pool. So is it a case of poor motivation, or is the talent pool not as deep as England fans like to think. Steven Gerrard has been off form for his country since last summer, while Wayne Rooney still struggles dominate games in his countries shirt. Tom Cleverly has energy but lacked international quality this week and James Milner, although versatile, is sluggish and ineffective on the flanks.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>England fans need to look at this squad and accept that, whatever Hodgson does, these players are not good enough at international level. Seemingly easy road to Brazil 2014 has turned into a perilous one indeed for England………..again………..it’s typical really.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Home Sweet Home</strong></p>
<p> </p>
<p>We’ve said it quite a few times since January, but how good has Mario Balotelli become since he returned home to Italy? Unstoppable? Unplayable? Both?</p>
<p>Confidence is always a key - as we always stress with our philosophy of look good, feel good, play good – and it seems the former City man is full of it in his home country. His 10 goals in eight games for both club and country are testament to the skills that Manchester City paid for in 2010 and indicate a important lesson many players can learn from. Being comfortable is more important then money.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Many who have walked through Manchester City’s doors have learnt this lesson the hard way. Scott Sinclair still can’t buy an appearance for his new Manchester based club, nor can former Everton star Jack Rodwell, while Javi Garcia (brought in from Benfica this season for £17million) has made sporadic performances for his new club. </p>
<p> </p>
<p>Rodwell and Sinclair’s stock was on the rise before their summer moves to the Etihad, with the former knocking on the door of the England squad and the latter being involved in the Olympics for team GB last summer. Now neither player seemingly has a hope of making the jump to the international level in time for the 2014 World Cup.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Any young player thinking about joining a Manchester City or Chelsea type side need only look to Balotelli to see why the decision to move could be the wrong one. There’s no place like home to bring the best football out of the game’s youngsters.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Are We Agreeing With Platini? Almost!</strong></p>
<p><strong> </strong></p>
<p>UEFA this week announced that the implementation of goal line technology to the Champions League and Europa League would be too expensive to make feasibly possible. </p>
<p> </p>
<p>Michel Platini revealed it would cost almost $70million to bring the system to Europe’s elite club competitions saying that the system is, “quite expensive for the sort of mistake which happens once every 40 years.”</p>
<p> </p>
<p>“Honestly, I prefer to put more money into youth football and infrastructure than spend it on technology when there’s a goal in a blue moon that hasn’t been seen by a referee.”</p>
<p> </p>
<p>We’re amazed here at World Football Daily that we find ourselves actually agreeing with the UEFA president on this. Not only does the price tag to implement the system totally out weigh the results of its use, but investing $70million seems like a fantastic idea to us.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>But the former France playmaker couldn’t last a whole press conference without mentioning something we cant abide and it wasn’t long before Platini was praising the additional goal line officials UEFA provide for their club competition fixtures.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>“In the Champions League, I’m very happy with the results [of the fifth official]. Practically no mistakes have been made and the referees see practically everything that happens on the pitch.”</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Did they see the last minute foul on Balotelli when City met Ajax earlier this year, or the pushing and shoving in the Celtic box at every set piece defended by Juventus last month?</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Platini almost had us singing his praises but instead, once again, we’ve been left sat open mouthed as the UEFA boss once again tries to justify a system that isn’t helping to clear controversy. In fact it causes it.</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
Oliver Wilson
2013-03-29T13:29:00Z
Win a pair of Puma Kings from World Football Daily
Rafa Gonzales
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Win-a-pair-of-Puma-Kings-from-World-Football-Daily/-486080072580940739.html
2013-03-28T17:06:00Z
2013-03-28T17:06:00Z
<div class="gmail_default" style="font-family: verdana,sans-serif;"><br />Do you have what it takes to be king of the pitch?</div>
<div class="gmail_default" style="font-family: verdana,sans-serif;"><br />We here at World Football Daily are giving you the chance to win a pair of brand new pair of Puma Kings from Puma Football.</div>
<div class="gmail_default" style="font-family: verdana,sans-serif;"><br />Borussia Dortmund are one of the most exciting and entertaining football clubs to watch. Now, watch them with a little more meaning behind it.</div>
<div class="gmail_default" style="font-family: verdana,sans-serif;"><br />The World Football Daily March Giveaway links your chances to win a pair of Puma Kings with one of the most exciting Puma Football sponsored clubs in Borussia Dortmund.</div>
<div class="gmail_default" style="font-family: verdana,sans-serif;"><br />We want your prediction for how many goals Borussia Dortmund will score and conceede in a five game span. We are even giving you a couple games to pad your prediction. The five games are as folllows:<img style="margin: 5px; float: right;" src="/images/blog/puma_kingfg_1b[1].jpg" alt="" width="343" height="306" /></div>
<div class="gmail_default" style="font-family: verdana,sans-serif;"><br />SC Freiburg (H) : 5-1</div>
<div class="gmail_default" style="font-family: verdana,sans-serif;"><br />Stuttgart (A) : 3/30</div>
<div class="gmail_default" style="font-family: verdana,sans-serif;"><br />Malaga (A) : 4/3</div>
<div class="gmail_default" style="font-family: verdana,sans-serif;"><br />FC Augsburg (H) : 4/6</div>
<div class="gmail_default" style="font-family: verdana,sans-serif;"><br />Malaga (H) : 4/9</div>
<div class="gmail_default" style="font-family: verdana,sans-serif;"><br />Your deadline to enter the competition is March 31st at midnight. Either send in your predictions to show@worldfootballdaily.com or dial in the message line at (310)909-8483 and leave your predictions there.</div>
<div class="gmail_default" style="font-family: verdana,sans-serif;"><br />Again, all we are needing from you to enter the World Football Daily March Giveaway is the goals scored and goals conceeded for Puma Football sponsored club Borussia Dortmund in the five games listed above. Any ties will go to the person who sent in their predictions first. So although the deadline is March 31st at midnight, you may want to submit your predictoins earlier if you think you do not need the two game cushion.</div>
<div class="gmail_default" style="font-family: verdana,sans-serif;"><br />You could be rocking the sweetest boots on the pitch, the Puma Kings from Puma Football.</div>
<div class="gmail_default" style="font-family: verdana,sans-serif;"><br /><br /><br />This competition is open to World Football Daily Members only.</div>
Rafa Gonzales
2013-03-28T17:06:00Z
Qatar 2022. FIFA's Failure Is Now The Premier League's Problem?
Oliver Wilson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Qatar-2022.-FIFAs-Failure-Is-Now-The-Premier-Leagues-Problem/-741505125809565465.html
2013-03-21T16:31:00Z
2013-03-21T16:31:00Z
<p>The red hot - or desert hot - debate surrounding the Qatar 2020 World Cup will surely continue to swirl around the football press right up until a decision is made to either keep the Tournament in the middle of the Emirates' summer, or move it to the Winter as FIFA is suggesting.</p>
<p>In theory, the decision to move the tournament away from it's traditional summer date seems like a logical solution to the problem mother nature brings to hosting the tournament in the middle of the desert. The Qatari summer has an average temperature of 41°C (106°F) with peaks sometimes reaching in excess on 45°C (114°F), making playing 90 minutes of football both very difficult and a health hazard to players and fans alike. Football has gone through enough tragedies in the last year with the death of Piermario Morosini - the Italian under-21 who died playing for Livorno in Serie B last April - and the incredible recovery Fabric Muamba made after going into cardiac arrest during his Bolton Wanderers side's FA Cup fixture against Tottenham at White Hart Lane. Neither of these incidents were caused by excessive heat, but the strain the modern game can take on a players body, combined with 40°C+ temperatures, means that a month long football tournament in the summer sun of Qatar is clearly not a healthy option.</p>
<p>The problem with the idea of moving the tournament, of course, is that a winter World Cup would drastically interfere with the schedules of Europe's major leagues, especially the Premier League.</p>
<p>While Germany's Bundesliga, Spain's La Liga, and Italy's Serie A all take an extended break over the winter months - with Germany's top flight taking over a month off this winter - the Premier League actively increases the number of League games per week during late December and early January - with Newcastle United playing 7 fixtures between December 10th 2012 and January 12th 2013 this season. Germany and the other top leagues may well be able to stretch and shuffle their winter break in order to accommodate a winter World Cup but the Premier League is still opposed to the idea, with a spokesman for the brand saying this week:</p>
<blockquote>
<p>"The Premier League's view remains unchanged. We are opposed to the concept of a winter World Cup for very obvious practical reasons that would impact on all of European domestic football."</p>
</blockquote>
<p>There is, in part, a very selfish attitude being taken by England's first division and their stance on the priority of European football over international football's biggest prize. Brazil and Argentina's top flights are regularly without many of their top players during a World Cup year as their summer season's clash with the tournament, as does America's MLS, and we rarely hear a whimper of disapproval from their league.</p>
<p>The Premier League, though, does have a point with its unwavering stance on the World Cup reshuffle. When Qatar was awarded the 2022 World Cup in 2010, it was awarded the privilege of hosting a summer tournament</p>
<p>The Country's bid didn't revolve around hosting a tournament in the cooler 20°C (70°F) heat of the winter months. It was based around the concept that Qatar had the capability to host the tournament in the summer. We were wowed by the impressive presentation that held the answers to the problem of the summer sun, with air conditioned open air stadiums being dangled in-front of our faces, teasing us with their luxurious and over the top solution.</p>
<p>But in 2011, it was revealed that the air conditioned open air stadiums would be "notoriously unsustainable" to put into practice and the futuristic idea was dropped by the organizing committee. Should the idea of Qatar hosting the tournament have been dropped too? This was, after all, a key element of their bid that the organizers are now failing on and the inability to provide said air conditioning in the grounds is making hosting a summer tournament unsafe for both the players and the fans attendance.</p>
<p>Not once during the bidding process was the a mention of a backup plan to move the World Cup to the winter should they fail in their attempts to harness the power of recirculated air. Qatar's bid has failed, so why should the financially strongest footballing continent on the plant have to rearrange it's whole league calendar around a failed bid.</p>
<p>Should the 2022 World Cup's runner up bidder [the USA] have been passed the mantle two years ago when the Emirates nation failed on the promises made to FIFA in 2010? Should such an unrealistic idea have been so easily grasped for by FIFA's elective committee without first asking some major questions about the plausibility of successfully building such emphatic stadia in the country and what backup plans were available should their be a problem at any stage? FIFA appear to have seen the dollar signs and have rushed towards, not the most suitable option, but the one that benefits the brand and it's elder statesmen.</p>
<p>The unwavering stance of the Premier League may be selfish, but it is not the Premier League and the European nations that have failed to deliver what was asked for for the 2022 World Cup to take place in the summer. That honor goes to FIFA and the Qatari bid team, so should it not be them, rather then our domestic leagues, who are held accountable for their mistakes.</p>
<p>USA 2022? There's still time to change it.</p>
Oliver Wilson
2013-03-21T16:31:00Z
Klinsmann Losing The Hearts And Minds Of USMNT
Oliver Wilson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Klinsmann-Losing-The-Hearts-And-Minds-Of-USMNT/561122881338685214.html
2013-03-20T16:29:00Z
2013-03-20T16:29:00Z
The crisis in the US National Team camp has reached near boiling point in the last 24 hours with rumors of disharmony between the players and the coaching staff filling <a title="USMNT bust up" href="http://www.mlssoccer.com/news/article/2013/03/19/big-debate-friendly-fire-incident-us-national-team-camp-comes-under-scrutiny" target="_blank">MLSSoccer.com</a>.<br /><br />While the story may seem a little far fetched (no specific player names are mentioned, nor are there any details of what exactly was said by the two parties) the obvious lack of cohesion between the manager and his players is obvious to see.<br />It’s a worrying thought as the USA prepare to embark on two of their biggest games to date, with a more then capable Costa Rica side dropping in to Denver on Friday night before the big trip to the Azteca next Tuesday to take on Mexico. Combined with an injury list that holds key names such as Fabian Johnson, Edgar Castillo, Steve Cherundolo, Tim Chandler and goalkeeper Tim Howard, Jurgen’s chances of bouncing back from their dismal 2-1 loss to Honduras in their opening Hexagonal round qualifier look slim indeed.
<p>While training ground bust-ups are not uncommon in football (especially if you’ve got a Mario Balotelli in your side) especially when backs are against the wall, but the manner in which the grumbling about Klinsmann’s side has built up over a long period of time is giving the strong impression that the German head coach is losing the hearts and minds of both his team and the general public.</p>
<p>Performances have been lackluster over the last 6 months, with a loss to Jamaica in World Cup qualifiers last September killing the excitement and momentum built by the friendly win against Mexico in the Azteca a month before. A scrappy win in Antigua added more fuel to Jurgen’s critics fire before a 0-0 draw against Canada in January really pilled on the pressure in the build up to February loss against Honduras.</p>
The tide is turning against Klinsmann rapidly, with even the spirited tweets of Carlos Bocanegra (left out of the German’s 23-man squad due to his lack of playing time this season) being seen more as a sign of graceful leadership that will be missed from the squad in his absence, and less of a call to rally behind the national team in their time of need. To the manager’s credit Jurgen’s decision to leave out the experienced defender stays true to his philosophy of picking players who are playing regular football. Landon Donovan, whose hiatus from football is coming to an end at the end of this month, wasn’t considered for an emergency call back according to the manager on Monday and Carlos is struggling to get into a Spanish second division side.
<p>His reassuring presence in the squad, though, has been considered a major loss to the squad by fans and should things go badly for the USA in Denver on Friday, Klinsmann could be relying on getting his side’s first points of the Hexagonal round away in Mexico. Something they’ve never done in a competitive game.</p>
<br />
Oliver Wilson
2013-03-20T16:29:00Z
England Could Learn From Bocanegra And Team USA.
Oliver Wilson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/England-Could-Learn-From-Bocanegra-And-Team-USA./51376149725052746.html
2013-03-20T13:47:00Z
2013-03-20T13:47:00Z
<p>While the US media continues to build up the crisis taking place in the National team ahead of their World Cup qualifiers against Costa Rica and Mexico some solace can be taken from the difficult situation Jurgen Klinsmann's side finds itself in.</p>
<p>At least we are seeing that every US player picked and dropped from the German's squad is desperate to represent their country.</p>
<p>It may seem like a ridiculous statement to make - with every school child who has any love for the game dreaming, at some point in their adolescence, of pulling on their national team's shirt and scoring that World Cup winning goal, becoming a national hero and giving it all for their country - but other nations have struggles to find willing participants to represent their country on the international stage, with England being the obvious example.</p>
<p>This Monday Rio Ferdinand pulled out of the England squad citing his medical reasons as the main factor for his decision to not pull on the white shirt of his country for the 82nd time. The on going back problem that has hampered Rio's fitness appears to be enough to keep him out of international duty against San Marino and Montenegro with the centre back deciding that a disruption to his specific training regime - that he undertakes with his club side Manchester United - could be too detrimental to the remainder of his season.</p>
<p>Few would argue against this statement were there not a cloud of football politics hanging over the England international's head. Rio, as we all remember, was snubbed by Roy Hodgson and left behind as England embarked on their Euro 2012 adventure last summer, with many believing the fall out from the then ongoing John Terry-Anton Ferdinand (Rio's brother) racism sage being the real reason for Rio's absence in Poland and Ukraine.</p>
<p>Whether Rio's withdrawal from England duty this week is a reaction to being left out of last summers squad is a highly debatable matter, but whatever the reason, Rio's absence from the squad is yet another example of an Englishman not being willing to put his body on the line for his country.</p>
<p>Ben Foster spoke, a few weeks ago, of the lack of desire in many English players to represent their nation when Fabio Capello was at the helm.</p>
<p>"At the time it [the England set up] was very very serious with Fabio Capello," said the West Bromwich goalkeeper.</p>
<p>" We weren’t allowed to go out of the hotel and we weren’t allowed visitors and I just felt that a week of ten days away from the family at that age was too much of a big miss. I think the kids are so impressionable at that age and I’m quite a family orientated person anyway so it really did kind of hurt me to be away from them for that time."</p>
<p>Under Fabio it seemed to be a little bit too negative and the press really did stick it to the team," continued Foster who is back in the England for the coming World Cup qualifiers.</p>
<p>"But Roy has brought a lot more optimism and the lads seem really happy to be called up and be involved now.</p>
<p>“You saw so many people pull out of international duty when the previous managers were there, I don’t even know, at times there were 8 or 10 people pulling out of every trip."</p>
<p>Compare this to the comments of Carlos Bocanegra, the US International veteran left out of Klinsmann's 23-man-squad for their Hexagonal round qualifiers this week.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p>Unfortunately sometimes your club situation directly affects your national team career. I appreciate all the friendly messages (cont)</p>
— Carlos Bocanegra (@BocaBoca3) <a href="https://twitter.com/BocaBoca3/status/314139355868430336">March 19, 2013</a></blockquote>
<script src="http://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script>
<p> </p>
<script src="http://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p>.. (cont) & would love to be in camp. Its an honor and a privilege to represent the USA. Lets all get behind the team for these 2 big games”</p>
— Carlos Bocanegra (@BocaBoca3) <a href="https://twitter.com/BocaBoca3/status/314139619128139776">March 19, 2013</a></blockquote>
<script src="http://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script>
<p> </p>
<p>The centre back also posted the following on his Facebook page:</p>
<blockquote>
<p><span class="userContent">During the last 18 months Jurgen has introduced a lot of new ideas to the team and has a vision of how he wants to grow the program. Every coach around the world has his own style and methods. He has always been up front<br /> with players about where they stand and where he sees them going. Not every player is going to be happy with all of the decisions and methods, but he will tell you to your face where you stand. From a coach, that is the best thing you could ask for. One of the greatest strengths of this team has<br /> always been our unity and spirit, and we all remain committed to the cause of qualifying for the World Cup.</span></p>
</blockquote>
<p> </p>
<p>Bocanegra's tweets & Facebook page contain a humble acceptance for his ultimately disappointing absence from the US side this week, but they also show how much it means to US players to represent their nation. Similarly the youngsters called up to the squad have shown an exuberance at being given the opportunity to pull on red white and blue crest of the national team at such an important time for the side.</p>
<p>Yes, doubters and critics are pointing out the flaws in Team USA and the apparent training ground bust ups are not helping the side prepare for Costa Rica on Friday, but are any of them thinking of dropping out of two competitive internationals?</p>
<p>No.</p>
<p>It's an attitude that England could definitely learn from.</p>
<p> </p>
Oliver Wilson
2013-03-20T13:47:00Z
Guzan Unnerved Despite Injury Crisis Hitting USMNT
Oliver Wilson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Guzan-Unnerved-Despite-Injury-Crisis-Hitting-USMNT/823097112643788531.html
2013-03-19T00:03:00Z
2013-03-19T00:03:00Z
The ever-confident Brad Guzan is a difficult character to break. Even after being stretched to his limits by Queens Park Rangers on Saturday, and being called up to a US Men’s National Team that has been rocked by an injury crisis, the Aston Villa goalkeeper remained upbeat and smiling when asked about his nerves heading into one of the most important weeks in his international career.
<p> </p>
<p>“There’s no nerves at all,” he replied back, grinning at the thought.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>“There’s nothing to be nervous about. You relish the moment, you take it all in, the excitement, and you try to enjoy it.”</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Guzan, though, has an opportunity to make the US teams starting goalkeeper position his after a season with Aston Villa that has seen him produce so many world-class performances that his manger Paul Lambert is sick of discussing him in post match press conferences. Combined with a growing fear that Tim Howard, who will miss the vital clashes with Costa Rica and Mexico through injury, is beginning to lose the command of his international back four and you can see just why some US soccer fans are looking forward to seeing Guzan between the posts this coming week.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>While some may be thinking about the possibility of Brad as a permanent fixture between the posts in the US side, he is thinking about the tasks ahead as they come and focusing on making important saves for both his club and his country.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>“It’s just a matter of just getting on with your job. As a goalkeeper it makes you feel good when you leave that facial expression on strikers and guys when they try to score and you’ve been able to pull off a save. That’s where you get your joy as a goalkeeper. If you keep it out of the back of the net, that’s what it’s about.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>“For me it’s about trying to prove myself week in week out, continue to get better and like I’ve always said, you don’t get too high when things are going well and you just carry on.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The enormity of the coming 10 days is not lost on the 29-year-old, though, and the Illinois native understands that results are needed from the both Friday’s and next Tuesday’s games if the US are going to make it through the CONCACAF Hexagonal round of World Cup qualification.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>“It’s going to be a huge game [in the Azteca] but before we get to Mexico we’ve got Costa Rica in Denver and that’s a massive one for us so hopefully we can go to Denver, take care of business and obviously, any time you play Mexico home or away, it’s a massive game.”</p>
<p> </p>
Oliver Wilson
2013-03-19T00:03:00Z
The Mid-Week Ramble
Oliver Wilson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/The-Mid-Week-Ramble/38891213392657036.html
2013-03-06T21:57:00Z
2013-03-06T21:57:00Z
<p><strong>The Champions League is open for Bayern</strong></p>
<p><strong> </strong></p>
<p>Tuesday night – and the majority of Wednesday – saw football fans across Europe split down the middle in the discussion of Nani’s dismissal at Old Trafford in the Champions League.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>While the impact of Cuneyt Cakir’s decision on Manchester United was obvious as Madrid took little time to seal their berth into the Champions League quarterfinal, the Turkish referees action has had a major impact on the tournament itself, putting Bayern Munich firmly on top of the remaining pile as the favorites for European glory.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Had Real Madrid dominated United on Tuesday many of us would have been hailing the return of Mourinho, the rise of Real and the brilliance of Los Blancos. Instead it took an alarming refereeing decision and the masterful Modric to pull the reigning La Liga champions out of the hole they dug themselves into in Manchester. They were hardly convincing until United went a man behind and much like the majority of their La Liga campaign, Madrid just about managed to get the job done.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>United are now out while Tuesday's other big winner, Borussia Dortmund, have caused the big red machine that is Bayern very few problems when the two have squared off in Germany this season, although Klopp's side were impressive against Shakhtar and have been throughout their European campaign.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>So who else is left?</p>
<p> </p>
<p>AC Milan are in the driving seat against Barcelona after their first leg victory in Milan, and even if Tito Villanova’s side are able to turn around the deficit, their current form – that includes three losses and two draws in their last six encounters – wont have sides quaking in their boots as they were a year ago.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Malaga and Porto have impressed this season but neither would be considered to be on the same platform as Munich, while Schalke and Galatasaray could be considered the two weakest sides left in the tournament with Celtic falling under the weight of Juventus.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>It is maybe the Old Lady of Italian football who could be considered the most likely to rival the German giant, as Antonio Conte’s squad possess the solidarity in defence, that is almost born into the blood of the Italian game, to ride the waves of the Munich attack while still being able to pack a very organised and intricate punch going forward.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><img style="float: right; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/zlatan_beckham.jpg" alt="" width="269" height="240" />And then there’s PSG, a side that can’t wrap up a league in which it is head and shoulders above any opposition on paper and who rely on one key man to bring them quality and good fortune on the pitch. PSG have the potential to cause an upset but the reality is that you just can’t trust them to get the job done.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Bayern’s time to end their 12 year drought and pick up a fifth European Cup is this season and few, now, would bet against it.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>CONCACAF Champions League success big for MLS</strong></p>
<p><strong> </strong></p>
<p>This week the CONCACAF Champions League quarterfinals get underway with three of the eight teams left in the tournament heralding from Major League Soccer.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>While MLS had three representatives in this stage of the competition last season – with Toronto and Los Angeles facing off against one another – the 2012-13 CONCACAF campaign has shown this season’s sides to be far stronger in North America’s continental club cup then in years gone by. This was epitomized by the Houston Dynamo’s late win on Tuesday night against the heavily favored Santos Laguna. </p>
<p> </p>
<p>Laguna, who were the runners up in last years final to Monterrey, were expected by many to grab a vital away win against the Dynamo and hand them their first loss in 32 games on home soil. That proved not to be the case as the two sides exchanged blows in the Texas night before Brad Davis tucked away his 89<sup>th</sup> minute effort to give the Dynamo and delightful win. </p>
<p> </p>
<p>Major League Soccer, despite the complaints of FIFA President Sepp Blatter, has grown and improved and now is set to loosen Mexico’s grip on the CONCACAF crown, one it has held onto for the last seven years. The possibility of having three MLS sides in the semifinals is one US soccer fans will relish, and, although there’s a long way to go before we get there, you can forgive fans for believing that this year might just be their year. Lets just hope it rubs off on the national team in the Hexagonal round of World Cup qualification.</p>
<p><strong> </strong></p>
<p><strong>Brand Beckham lands in China</strong></p>
<p><strong> </strong></p>
<p>If anyone missed the news last week that David Beckham had become the new ambassador of football in China then you at least know it now because that’s exactly what happened. Beckham, a man who’s never played in the Chinese league, has no hope of representing their national team, and who rarely has ever been seen – to the best of our knowledge – in the country is now a ambassador for the game in the country.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>China, of course, is trying to repair the damage done to the sport's reputation in the country after match fixing scandals, of Italian proportions, have rocked fans faith in the game, while the Chinese national side have plummeted down the FIFA world rankings.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Step forward Beckham, donning a super man cape, as the Chinese Football Federation look to use the instant charm and charisma of the Englishman to try and win the hearts and minds of the local fans. It may well work, but it may also be a poor decision on the part of Becks. The Daily Telegraph’s <a href="http://www.google.co.uk/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=1&cad=rja&ved=0CDIQFjAA&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.telegraph.co.uk%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Fplayers%2Fdavid-beckham%2F9841116%2FDavid-Beckham-needs-to-beware-the-motives-of-Qatar-moneymen-behind-his-move-to-Paris-St-Germain.html&ei=38A3UdGgB8il0QXm1ICgCA&usg=AFQjCNE5sX7NwFcZGTk9tzrzP6JtJTZ-aw&bvm=bv.43287494,d.d2k" target="_blank">Henry Winter warned Beckham</a> of the possibility of being sucked into the promotion of the Qatari World Cup in 2022 by PSG’s Arab owners. Similar problems could come Becks' way if he’s seen gallivanting around promoting the beautiful game in a country that has received great international criticism for it’s stance on freedom of speech and human rights. </p>
<p> </p>
<p>Just be careful Becks. Be Careful.</p>
<p><strong> </strong></p>
<br />
<p><strong>And Finally.</strong></p>
<p><strong> </strong></p>
<p>While there are a host of entertaining games in this weekend coming, few will have the impact on the league table like Lyon v Marseille on Saturday. With PSG struggling this season – I think we mentioned that once before – both Lyon and Marseille could mount a late push to the Ligue 1 title, and both will be desperate to not drop vital points against the other. </p>
<p> </p>
<p>Lyon are a thrill to watch at the moment while Marseille are like Forrest Gump’s Momma’s chocolate box - you don’t know what you’re gonna get – and Sunday night in France will surely be a vital match in the outcome of the French league’s title. </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
Oliver Wilson
2013-03-06T21:57:00Z
Magnificent Modric Finally Upends United
Oliver Wilson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Magnificent-Modric-Finally-Upends-United/-238815750433887833.html
2013-03-05T23:31:00Z
2013-03-05T23:31:00Z
In late December the readers of Marca voted Luka Modric, the man who cost real Madrid £26 million, as the <a href="http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-2255422/Luka-Modric-Alex-Song-voted-worst-signings-season-Spain.html" target="_blank">worst signing in Spanish football for 2012</a>. His critics have a strong case to put against the Croatian wizard. Modric had scored just once before Tuesday night in a 4-0 win against Zaragoza and provided just one assist in La Liga. For the amount of money Madrid paid for their summer signing, fans expected more then just a bit part player in Mourinho’s system.
<p> </p>
<p>On Wednesday morning, however, a few of those voters might have started to change their minds about La Liga’s “worst signing of 2012.”</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The world was going to stand still for Manchester United’s Champions League clash with Real Madrid according to Los Blancos manager Jose Mourinho and in Madrid, at least, it did when Sergio Ramos steered the ball into his own net early in the second half to give United a much deserved lead.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Madrid had been slow and were forced to play awkward intricate balls into the final third in an attempt to unsettle a sturdy United defence that dealt with the majority of Madrid’s pressure competently. The breakthrough, though, finally invigorated the Spanish giants as they upped their search for the suddenly essential equalizer.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Nani’s controversial sending off 12 minutes after Ramos’ blunder appeared to place Madrid firmly in the driving seat, but the armada that continually launched wave after wave of attacks at the United goal was stalled by the resilience of a defence that typified the gutsy ‘never say die’ attitude that Sir Alex Ferguson’s sides always had in their locker on the big occasion.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Mourinho made the call and Modric entered the arena to face a side he’d never beaten when he wore the white of Tottenham Hotspur, and immediately the Croatian grabbed the bull by the horns, sending Madrid into overdrive.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The added space, thanks to the removal of Nani, gave the playmaker the freedom to move about at will and every attack was suddenly dictated by the control and vision of Luka. Some would call it an easy occasion to rise to, but with few others offering such determination and composure – with Xabi Alonso having a quiet night and Mesut Ozil and Sami Khedira both having off nights in the centre of the park – Modric was the lone man to keep Madrid driving forward in search of that vital goal.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>When it did come, the strike was unstoppable, a dipping swerving effort that left David De Gea with no chance in the United goal and was a refreshing reminder of what had caught the eye of Europe’s most successful side last summer. Even with the lead Modric was ruthless, exposing the gaps in the United defence with his crisp passing while off the ball Luka’s movement continued to find the gaping space left by the extra man advantage, giving him ample time to operate in.</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p>His two goals at Old Trafford in 2009 had brought nothing but heartbreak as the Red Devils fired five past Spurs in a 5-2 drubbing four years ago, but last night Modric exorcised those demons with a composite display that helped take Madrid into the next round of the Champions League and may have just helped him to find a few new fans back home in Spain.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>A repeat performance on the weekend against 11 men would do a lot to keep those followers coming.</p>
Oliver Wilson
2013-03-05T23:31:00Z
Foster: England Duty Was Too Much Under Capello
Oliver Wilson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Foster:-England-Duty-Was-Too-Much-Under-Capello/-569763643752010895.html
2013-03-04T13:49:00Z
2013-03-04T13:49:00Z
<p>Despite losing to Chelsea on Saturday afternoon West Bromwich Albion keeper Ben Foster still appeared very upbeat about both his side’s and his own performance. His spirits may been buoyed by the fact that West Brom are still in the battle for a Europa League berth next season, despite seeing Everton move a further three points clear in the race for 6<sup>th</sup> place, but the likely hood is that Foster’s good mood stemmed from the knowledge that Roy Hodgson was in the crowd at Stamford Bridge and that the England manager was there, most likely, to watch his former goalkeeper who was on top form that afternoon.</p>
<p class="ecxmsonormal">“It was a busy game,” said the former Birmingham City player.</p>
<p class="ecxmsonormal">“You know when you come to Chelsea it’s going to be a busy game and you’ve got to be on top of your performances to get anything out of the game but I think Roy was in the stands as well so it was nice to be on form today”</p>
<p>An England call up is now a major possibility with Hodgson at the helm of the national side and Foster has put his name back in the hat for national team duty after family issues and the strict regime of Fabio Capello forced him to retire from international football in 2011.</p>
<p class="ecxmsonormal">My kids were born around that time so they were about 1 & 2 and it was really kind of hard for we to go away for a week or ten days at a time and not see my kids or family.</p>
<p class="ecxmsonormal">"At the time it [the England set up] was very very serious with Fabio Capello. We weren’t allowed to go out of the hotel and we weren’t allowed visitors and I just felt that a week of ten days away from the family at that age was too much of a big miss. I think the kids are so impressionable at that age and I’m quite a family orientated person anyway so it really did kind of hurt me to be away from them for that time."</p>
<p class="ecxmsonormal">The change from Fabio to Hodgson has been a major influence in Foster’s decision surrounding the national side, especially after the positivity the former West Brom manager has had on the squad, both in the media and in the locker room.</p>
<p class="ecxmsonormal">“Roy was definitely a big factor.</p>
<p class="ecxmsonormal">“Under Fabio it seemed to be a little bit too negative and the press really did stick it to the team but Roy has brought a lot more optimism and the lads seem really happy to be called up and be involved now.</p>
<p>“You saw so many people pull out of international duty when the previous managers were there, I don’t even know, at times there were 8 or 10 people pulling out of every trip but players really want to be there now and I’m one that wants to be there as well.”</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></p>
Oliver Wilson
2013-03-04T13:49:00Z
Sporting Kansas City flossing a sweet new kit by adidas
Rafa Gonzales
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Sporting-Kansas-City-flossing-a-sweet-new-kit-by-adidas/783446013089857173.html
2013-02-28T02:47:00Z
2013-02-28T02:47:00Z
<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">Another sweet top for another Major League Soccer team.<br /><br /><br />Sporting Kansas City unveiled the team's <a href="http://click.info.mlssoccer.com/?qs=66eee515a7e8a91dd6a377995aa5a685fdba38bed67826a0244a425fee33b5a6" target="_blank">new primary jersey for the 2013 and 2014 seasons</a> on Wednesday during a special Season Ticket Member event held at Sporting Park as part of Major League Soccer's Jersey Week.</span></span></span></span>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></span></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">The new Sporting KC home uniform will be available to purchase online at <a href="http://click.info.mlssoccer.com/?qs=66eee515a7e8a91d645b3394618118d2628d4673fc1a8a59e19a4dd073219cd9" target="_blank">shop.sportingkc.com</a> beginning Thursday and will also be sold at the team's official <a href="http://click.info.mlssoccer.com/?qs=66eee515a7e8a91dbb582f50fb66b360a3d46e1198a155b3baac145e501b3051" target="_blank">Watch Party for the Sporting Kansas City season opener</a> on Saturday inside the Boulevard Members Club at Sporting Park.<br /><br /><img style="float: right; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Bunbury520.jpg" alt="" width="245" height="450" /><br /></span></span></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">"Fashion is an important element of the Sporting Kansas City brand and the new 2013 primary kit takes this focus to new levels," said Sporting Kansas City Vice President of Stadium and Brand Revenue John Moncke. "We wanted the jersey to be a modern kit that imbues the ethos of our brand, so we played a very hands-on role in the design process."<br /></span></span></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></span></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">The new primary jersey showcases the team's Sporting Blue and Dark Indigo colors through a trendy asymmetrical design that emphasizes the state line brand element, which was introduced during the club's rebrand in 2010. The state line represents the shared border between Kansas and Missouri, with Sporting Kansas City having strong ties to both sides of the state line.</span></span></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"> </p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">Additionally, at the time of launch, the Sporting KC home uniform is the only adidas jersey in the world with the company's iconic three stripes shown in a different color on each sleeve. Major League Soccer's exclusive supplier, adidas has provided the club's uniforms since the inaugural season in 1996.<br /></span></span></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></span></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">Ivy Funds, Sporting Kansas City's presenting jersey partner and official investment management partner, is prominently showcased with the asset management firm's logo centrally located on the front of the new home uniform. Headquartered in Overland Park, Kan., Ivy Funds entered into a multi-year sponsorship agreement with Sporting Kansas City that was <a href="http://click.info.mlssoccer.com/?qs=66eee515a7e8a91de078188ecc198db205472de32fba129ce616260f6ce048d5" target="_blank">announced at the 2013 MLS SuperDraft</a> last month.<br /></span></span></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></span></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">In addition to Sporting Kansas City's home and away uniforms, the team will release an alternate third jersey in conjunction with a home match during the 2013 season.</span></span></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Wednesday's launch event, presented by Budweiser, featured Robb Heineman (Sporting Club CEO), Thomas Butch (CEO and President of Ivy Funds Distributor, Inc.) and Peter Vermes (Sporting Kansas City Manager) alongside Sporting Kansas City players.</span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Aurelien Collin.jpg" alt="" width="500" height="500" /><br /></span></span></p>
Rafa Gonzales
2013-02-28T02:47:00Z
The Puma evoSPEED, built for...you guessed it, Speed.
Rafa Gonzales
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/The-Puma-evoSPEED,-built-for...you-guessed-it,-Speed./-246250287031147699.html
2013-02-23T04:54:00Z
2013-02-23T04:54:00Z
<span style="font-family: Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Shortly after the latest PowerCat release, Puma unleashed the latest evoSPEED colorway, worn by the likes of Premier League Champ Sergio Aguero.</span></span>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">If you're looking for a boot that will maximize your speed on the pitch, then the evoSPEED is built for you amigo.</span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Introduced today, the evoSPEED 1 FG has a new standout look in red, with blue and white detail. It is the second boot to join the latest PUMA boot rollout, shortly after the latest PowerCat. Maintaining its classic characteristics of lightweight, flexible and maneuverable innovations, the evoSPEED 1 FG continues to be a great performance boot for the quickest players.<img style="float: right; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/evoSpeedFG1.1.jpg" alt="" width="315" height="204" /> </span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">PUMA athlete, Manchester City's Sergio Aguero explains, "As a striker, I need to be able to move quickly, and the evoSPEED really enables me to do so. I am able to change direction more promptly because of the lightness and flexible sole. The boot really impresses me, and so does the new colorway. PUMA creates all these different and unique designs, which is great because they help me stick out from others on the pitch." </span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">You're probably looking for the specs-</span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">The evoSPEED 1 FG is fitted with speedCELL that allows for the boot to have a mono-layer microfiber, which increases flexibility and reduces weight, while still allowing for the EverFit cage to create a snug midfoot strike. The combination of the Pebax outsole with the bladed and conical studs enhances stability for the heel, as well as absolute freedom during forefront rotation. The upper features an extremely thin 3D film that allows for superior ball grip, even in wet conditions. </span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><img style="float: left; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/SergioAguero2.jpg" alt="" width="338" height="225" /><br /></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Stand out on the pitch. </span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">The new red evoSPEED 1 FG will be worn by Aguero's Manchester City teammate Gael Clichy, as well as FC Schalke's Ibrahim Afellay and Everton's Steven Pienaar as soon as this weekend. You can purchase these boots in store March 1<sup>st</sup>.</span></span></p>
Rafa Gonzales
2013-02-23T04:54:00Z
Are You Avivan A Laugh Norwich?
Oliver Wilson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Are-You-Avivan-A-Laugh-Norwich/923134736530976675.html
2013-02-22T16:14:00Z
2013-02-22T16:14:00Z
<p>Norwich City will have a slightly different look about them this weekend as they step at Carrow Road to face Everton this Saturday.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The club has teamed up with their shirt sponsors Aviva and the players will be donning a shirt bearing the logo of their sponsor’s partner charity Railway Children.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>It will be the second consecutive year that Norwich City have worn Railway Children’s logo on their shirts, with last year’s game generating over £10,000 for the cause as well as delivering priceless recognition of the charity’s critical work.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Railway Children provide support for under-16s who run away from home or who are at risk of doing so. In the UK it’s estimated that 18 children run away form home every 90 minutes, a figure that Norwich boss Chis Houghton shudders at the thought of.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>“To think that 18 children are estimated to run away from home during Saturday's game says a great deal,” said the Canaries manager.</p>
<p><br /> “We hope to raise as much awareness as possible from the activity on the day to help support children who may run away from home.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>“As a father myself, I can’t even begin to imagine what it would be like to have your own child run away from home.”</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Club Director – and all time England pop culture legend – Stephen Fry will also be showing his support for the charity via twitter to help raise money for Railway Children’s cause. For every tweet or retweet posted on Twitter on match day including the hashtag #1every5, Aviva will donate £1 to Railway Children.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Even the Carrow Road will be dressed in the charities colours for Saturday afternoon and, to top it all off, fans will be given the opportunity to win one of the 18 limited edition shirts worn and signed by the players if they head to the charities website after the game.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>For more information on the match day activities and for your chance to win a one of the limited edition Norwich City shirts head to</p>
<p><a href="http://www.railwaychildren.org.uk/ncfc">http://www.railwaychildren.org.uk/ncfc</a></p>
Oliver Wilson
2013-02-22T16:14:00Z
The F50 Messi Is Here
Oliver Wilson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/The-F50-Messi-Is-Here/54061635992903005.html
2013-02-21T09:00:00Z
2013-02-21T09:00:00Z
First he modeled the new F50s. Then he had his own special Ballon d'Or boot made. Now adidas have completed Lionel Messi’s journey to stardom with his own signature style of boot.<br />
<p> </p>
<p>It's no wonder a player who has inspired so many in and around the beautiful game has managed to find himself with his own signature brand in the adidas ranks, and it's even less surprising that the man who plays the game with such grace and passion now has a personalised shoe that mimics its muse in both build and style.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The adizero F50 Messi boot has been made with the mini maestro in mind, with a colour scheme and a design that reflects Leo personally.</p>
<p><img style="float: right; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/AJS_Adidas_SS13_PPP_Individual 9_0882.jpg" alt="" width="288" height="192" /></p>
<p> </p>
<p>The powerful red, Lionel’s favorite colour, reflects the danger the Argentine forward poses to on coming defender - almost like a warning alarm flashing on Leo’s feet telling would be tacklers that he’s coming through – and represents the four time FIFA World Player of the Year’s burning desire for the game.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The sleek white frame of the boot – a boot designed to be as light as possible – shows off the players pace and the delicate touch he possesses. On the sole of the boot there is a single red stud in the centre of the sole surrounded by its white counterparts, which represents Messi with his teammates and shows how he is only as strong as the rest of his team around him.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Messi has been integral to the development of the boot and, just as he is in every move on the pitch, has been at the heart the design and testing stages for the boot. This shoe is as much of Messi as it can be.</p>
<p> <img style="float: left; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/AJS_Adidas_SS13_PPP_Individual 9_0874.jpg" alt="" width="351" height="234" /></p>
<p>The greatest player in the world joins a very short list of players who have had their own custom range of shoes from adidas, including Derrick Rose of the Chicago Bulls and David Beckham.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The best player in the world now his own version of the fastest boots in the world and he will be debuting the F50 Messi this spring.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><a href="http://www.adidas.com/messi-collection">www.adidas.com/messi-collection</a> will be selling the shoe from February 21<sup>st</sup> while other retailers will have it on sale from March 1<sup>st</sup>.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>We here at World Football Daily were big fans of the F50s when we tested them earlier in the year. While the specs for both boots are similar, the F50 Messi looks fantastic, especially with his own signature logo on the tongue. They may look more at home in the San Siro, but these could be the best looking boots since the pink and silver predators were released, and the most iconic signature shoe football has seen since the Nike R9s that Ronaldo dazzled the world with.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The boot reflects the player and it doesn’t involve any polka dots – unlike that Ballon d’Or suit – and we’re going to be doing our best to get a hands on look at the boot in the coming weeks. For now, just enjoy these images.</p>
<p><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/AJS_Adidas_SS13_PPP_Individual 9_0873.jpg" alt="" width="520" height="345" /></p>
Oliver Wilson
2013-02-21T09:00:00Z
Hard Work and Guts Pay Off In Milan.
Oliver Wilson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Hard-Work-and-Guts-Pay-Off-In-Milan./769310288914884851.html
2013-02-20T22:22:00Z
2013-02-20T22:22:00Z
<p>A side so often touted as the most beautiful side on the planet, Barcelona on Wednesday night, were nothing but dull drab and flaccid against a Milan side that worked doggedly to keep the ‘dream team’ at bay for the majority of the night.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Milan were tireless in their efforts, and I’m sure they’ll be more then happy that their next fixture – against their same town rivals Inter Milan – is as late as they come on Sunday night. Massilmillio Allegri’s side will need a rest after last night.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>It was hard work that shut down Barca for 95 minutes in the San Siro. The sort of work we’re used to seeing Barca pull out on big nights both in Spain and in Europe competition. Off the ball Milan hurried their opponents, working in packs as if they had a 12<sup>th</sup> man out on the open surface of the San Siro.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Massimo Ambrosini lead by example, timing his challenges to perfection and staying composed on the ball at all times and playing the Rossoneri away from trouble when Barca threatened in the final third. Riccardo Montolivo was almost a carbon copy of his captain in that respect and his first half sliding challenge to dispossess Lionel Messi brought about a huge roar from the home crowd.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Barca were uncharacteristically quiet throughout the night with Christian Abbiati spending most of his night tucked up in his own goal watching his defence handle the majority of the Catalan side’s advances. The patient tiki-taka football that we’re used to seeing break down defences week-in week-out in La Liga had a lethargic feel to it and as Milan continued to find vital challenges and double team key players such as Messi and Andreas Iniesta, Barca failed to rise to the occasion.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>They even resorted to a shameless display of unsporting behavior that, had they scored from the resulting play, would surely have seen Tito Villanova’s side chastised on the footballing back pages as much as Shakhtar Donetsk were after their controversial goal against Nordsjaelland on match day five in the group stages.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Luckily for Milan, after their Tequila Sunrise coloured visitors refused to sportingly give the ball back after a clash of heads between Giampaolo Pazzini and Carlos Puyol prevented a clear goal scoring opportunity, the Rossoneri’s defence once again dealt with the momentary pressure applied to it.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>On the ball, Milan worked just as hard to keep Barca at bay, leaving passing lanes and easy balls available for the majority of the evening.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>A momentary stroke of luck lead to Kevin Prince Boateng being offered the opportunity to open the scoring after 57 minutes, the former Portsmouth midfielder blasting his effort past Victor Valdes to send the San Siro wild. While Barca clambered for handball to be called Milan regrouped and composed themselves for what many thought would be a 30-minute onslaught from the worlds best. Instead they continued to play football against Barca, out scoring them blow for blow in the games mini battles.</p>
<p><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Milan-1000.jpg" alt="" width="767" height="483" /></p>
<p>Their second came at a crucial time nine minutes from the end and blew away any doubt that the Rossonari’s win wasn’t deserved. Substitute M’Baye Niang jiggled and juggled around the edge of the area before teeing up Stephan El Shaarawy, who in turn flicked the ball across to Sulley Muntari. Portsmouth fans may have taken a sweet joy in seeing two of their ex-players beating the best in the world, but for Milan fans, the past history of their players wont mean a thing. </p>
<p> </p>
<p>The 2-0 aggregate lead will, however, mean everything.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Did Milan meet Barcelona on an off night for the Spanish side? Probably. Have they found the winning formula to beating them? Probably not. Did they show that a team effort, endless focus and an unprecedented work rate can get you a result against Tito Vilanova’s side. Yes they have and now Milan are just a draw away from knocking out the Champions League favorites.</p>
<p> </p>
Oliver Wilson
2013-02-20T22:22:00Z
Did Weakness Lead To Weakness?
Oliver Wilson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Did-Weakness-Lead-To-Weakness/498147364073165248.html
2013-02-20T04:31:00Z
2013-02-20T04:31:00Z
<p>Arsene Wenger didn’t appear strong in the Arsenal pressroom on Monday afternoon when he unleashed his rant at the gathered press as they asked him about his desire to win silverware and a potential contract extension ahead of his side’s huge night against Bayern Munich the following evening.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>His spat in public, and in front of a player, at the press conference was a rare moment of heat from the normally cool calm Wenger, with many believing that, unlike when other managers snap in the press, the uncharacteristically aggressive nature of Wenger made the French manager appear weak ahead of his side’s biggest night of their season so far.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>While some thought that his ‘us against them’ mentality would help to galvanize a squad that appeared to lack any gusto the previous Saturday, the eventual result of the public handbags appeared to be a side that still lacked a leader on the pitch, but who also might have lost their leader off it.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Weakness appeared to breed weakness as Wenger’s side stepped out onto the pitch and the initial puffed out chests of Arsene’s starting XI were soon deflated as their heads were forced to drop and chase the game from the German league leaders.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>It was always going to be a difficult night for the Gunners on Tuesday and Arsenal fans knew that it was going to be tough to get past a Bayern side that hadn’t conceded a goal in over 600 minutes of football. But if Arsenal had any chance of getting a result on Tuesday, it appears that it went out of the door on Monday afternoon in the press conference. <br /> <br /> Everyone asked if it was going to affect his side’s performance on Tuesday. If it did, it didn’t help.</p>
Oliver Wilson
2013-02-20T04:31:00Z
Bayern Are Ready, Arsenal Aren't Steady: A Few Thoughts On Tuesday Night
Oliver Wilson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Bayern-Are-Ready,-Arsenal-Arent-Steady:-A-Few-Thoughts-On-Tuesday-Night/-534896813161122598.html
2013-02-19T22:27:00Z
2013-02-19T22:27:00Z
<p>There was a grace with which Bayern Munich went about their business at the Emirates on Tuesday night.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>It appeared all too easy in the opening 50 minutes of their first leg tie against Arsenal, a tie that saw the Gunners all-but knocked out of the Champions League -baring a minor miracle in the Allianz Arena in two weeks time - a tie that finally has the English mainstream media believing that there is another team on the continent aside from Barcelona or Real Madrid.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Even during the opening eight minutes of the encounter, when Arsenal were spurred on by the adrenaline rush of the night and the energy of the crowd, Bayern still looked in control. Toni Kroos’ goal after seven minutes, though, showed the frailties in the Gunners defence, while Thomas Muller’s strike just rubbed the salt into their defensive wounds.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>There was just too much space for Bayern to operate in on the expansive surface at the Emirates, with a front four of Jack Wilshere, Theo Walcott, Santi Cazorla and Lukas Podoski trying to press from the front. Their opponents, however, were able to manipulate the space given behind the initial wave of pressure as David Alaba and Brazilian centre-back, Dante, moved the ball well out from the back.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Even a rare quiet evening from Frank Ribery failed to slow down the German machine, as Kroos, Muller and Mario Mandzukic linked almost flawlessly across the final third and pressed Arsenal’s back-four, who spent much of the evening retreating into it's 18-yard-box.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>It was almost as if the visitors took their foot right off the gas after the interval and slowly ground to a halt, which was when Arsenal appeared to bounce back.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Wilshere was, as ever, vibrant in the middle of the park and drove Arsenal forward but Walcott and Mikel Arteta were still bland down the middle of the park. The Arsenal number 14 in particular was once again unable to play the role of centre forward for the Gunners against top class opposition and struggled to carve out opportunities to test Neuer.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>It may have been boredom for the German keeper that brought on the Arsenal goal, as Neuer failed to remember to reach out for an in swinging corner, allowing Podolski to tuck the ball home into an empty net.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The buzz from the goal,though, failed to rally the Gunners enough for them to pull themselves level and Bayern once again resumed control. A third was always on the cards and although the finish was lucky from Mandzukic, the cross and overlap from Phillip Lahm was magnificent as Bayern's strong play along the flanks once again caused problems for the Gunners.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The boos that rang out around the Emirates after the game was a little unjust from the Arsenal ‘faithful’. After witnessing the jeers and shouts from the majority of the fans that walked past the press box after their loss to Blackburn on the weekend, it was unsurprising that there were a number of boos after 90 minutes in mid-week. But Tuesday night’s performance didn’t lack guts or heart it lacked quality.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Bayern are just better. Much much better than an Arsenal side who lack a leader, both on the field and possibly off it. It’s an Arsenal side that haven’t spent the money on top quality, Champions League winning caliber, players and finally the fans have reached breaking point with their tolerance for fourth place acceptance.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Bayern, on the other hand, have built a squad to win, a squad to beat Barcelona, Real Madrid and anyone else who they’ll come across in Europe. </p>
<p> </p>
<p>Arsenal have apparently been put to bed – with everyone forgetting that this is the barmy world of football where anything can happen – and the next challenge is waiting for Jupp Heynckes’ side is yet unknown in Europe, but the Bayern machine is ready and able to roll over just about anyone in football.</p>
Oliver Wilson
2013-02-19T22:27:00Z
Landon Donovan Returning to the Galaxy...(soon)
Rafa Gonzales
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Landon-Donovan-Returning-to-the-Galaxy...soon/290633425057534760.html
2013-02-18T04:20:00Z
2013-02-18T04:20:00Z
<span style="font-family: Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Landon Donovan could be the Michael Jordan of Major League Soccer. </span></span>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Take a second to let that sink in.</span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">It's true though. The man has accomplished just about everything and anything you could imagine as an American playing soccer. </span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">The Galaxy's all-time leader in goals, Donovan has spent the last eight seasons with the club, scoring 92 times while adding 79 assists in 194 regular season games. LD is one of two players in league history with 100 career goals and 100 career assists, the 30-year-old ranks third in MLS history with 124 goals and fourth with 108 assists during his 12-year MLS career. </span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">The all-time leader in MLS postseason goals with 22, Donovan has won five MLS Cup championships since 2001, including three with the Galaxy in 2005, 2011 and 2012. In addition to captaining the Galaxy to back-to-back MLS Cup titles, Donovan has scored a record 49 goals in 144 appearances with the U.S. National Team. A veteran of three FIFA World Cups, Donovan is 20 caps shy of Cobi Jones’ U.S. record of 164 international appearances.</span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">That'll do Landon, that'll do.</span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">After this last MLS Cup win, Landon needed a break. An “extended leave of absence”. Hardly a vacation really when you come to realize he'll be rejoining his club before you know it.</span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><img style="float: right; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/1297346809290_ORIGINAL.jpg" alt="" width="380" height="314" />The LA Galaxy announced today that forward Landon Donovan will rejoin the club in training during the final week of March. </span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Galaxy Head Coach and General Manager Bruce Arena seemed just about understanding with the situation saying “After a series of collaborative discussions between Landon, his representative and our key club leaders, we have agreed to allow Landon to remain on an extended leave of absence and return to training with the team during the final week of March”.</span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Sure it might seem like a pain to be without the star of your team, a DP, and the captain of the squad. But need we read through the resume again? Don't you think this is nothing in comparison to some of what David was asking for? </span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Bruce seemed to know how to handle the whole thing. “We understand this arrangement is not ideal, but we are confident it will allow Landon the time he needs to be both mentally and physically prepared for the upcoming season. We remain focused on our preparation for the start of the 2013 season and look forward to Landon rejoining us next month.”</span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">In the end, the Galaxy get their leader back before they know it and generally they have a strong enough squad to get them through until Landon is match fit and ready to play. Which I for one think wont take long as I doubt he trashed his body in his “extend leave of absence”.</span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"> </p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Enjoy it LD.</span></span></p>
Rafa Gonzales
2013-02-18T04:20:00Z
Villa Will Crumble If Benteke Bids Farewell
Oliver Wilson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Villa-Will-Crumble-If-Benteke-Bids-Farewell/15331551280500859.html
2013-02-16T14:15:00Z
2013-02-16T14:15:00Z
<p>Christian Benteke has been somewhat of a revelation at Aston Villa this season.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>His eleven goals this season in the Premier League – almost half of Villa’s total goal tally of 25 so far this season – have been the corner stone to his side’s fight against relegation this season and Paul Lambert needs the 22-year-old Belgian to rebuild the former midland power house around.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>But keeping him will be very much easier said then done this summer, as top Premier League side’s continue to gaze longingly at the potential of another top Belgian striker. Tottenham Hotspur joined the hunt this week, with Arsenal, Manchester City and Chelsea all keen to land forward.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Few batted an eyelid when The Villans nabbed Christian from Genk for a mere £8 million this summer, but there’s no surprise in that. Benteke scored 19 goals in 37 appearances for Genk in the 2011/12 season, but the Belgian league is often overlooked when Europe’s elite scour the globe for talent.</p>
<p><br /> Villa took their chance in a 21-year-old with promise and potential but he started slowly in the Premier League this season. His ability to finish was brought into question, especially after racking up just three goals in by December for his new club, but Lambert insisted that his new signing’s name was on the team sheet before Darren Bent, a decision that frustrated the majority of the Holte End.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>A brace against Liverpool and seven goals in his last seven games has forced his stock sky high and few in the League are doubting his quality in front of goal, his presence in and around the box, or his powerful play right now.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>A trip to White Hart Lane would be the ideal place for Benteke to land this summer if Villa were to let him loose. Emmanuel Adebayor has failed to reach the prolific form he found last season under Harry Redknapp, and Jermaine Defoe can’t lead the Tottenham front line forever, despite the quality he’s shown in front of goal this season. His price could be reasonably cheap when compared to the disastrous signings of Fernando Torres and Andy Carroll from years past and Benteke could be lured away from the Midlands for around £12-£15millon.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><img style="float: right; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Aston-Villa-v-Reading-Christian-Benteke_2867360.jpg" alt="" width="400" height="299" />The question, though, is should Villa accept a bid for the man who is, at the moment, keeping the club out of the Premier League’s bottom three? We know that Randy Lerner wants to strip the club down, reducing wage costs across the board in an attempt to rebuild a new, young, and cheap Premier League side. Benteke came in for a great price that fitted with that philosophy, but almost doubling their money on the striker would keep in tune with the clubs financial plan. </p>
<p> </p>
<p>Lerner appears distant from the club and some fans are under the impression that he feels Villa will be able to stay in England’s top flight because they are ‘too big a club to go down’. If they do stay up this year it will be down to Benteke and his goals and letting him head down to London or elsewhere would mean taking away a potential 15(or so) goals for next season. With Villa only having scored 25 times in 26 matches, the numbers for next season wouldn’t add up to a mid-table snooze-fest for Villa fans next season.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Unless the club was willing to splash out on another top quality striker, or look to get lucky with a young up-coming forward, Benteke leaving Villa Park would be a disaster for the club.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>They may be looking to strip costs and maximize profit at Aston Villa, but that is guaranteed not to happen if next season, or the year after, they’re down in the Championship.</p>
Oliver Wilson
2013-02-16T14:15:00Z
Blackburn Rovers turn to Nike for help returning to the Premier League
Rafa Gonzales
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Blackburn-Rovers-turn-to-Nike-for-help-returning-to-the-Premier-League/-179028848831439303.html
2013-02-15T18:20:00Z
2013-02-15T18:20:00Z
<p>Everyone’s doing it. See under Arsenal, Manchester United, Barcelona and Juventus rock the Nike “swoosh” on their kits these days. They all play wonderful football and are successful clubs playing in the top flight of their respective leagues (sorry Arsenal fans). So put two and two together, obviously Nike breed the culture of success within a club.</p>
<p>So what do you do if you’re a former Premier League club looking to make a return to the class of English football? Obviously, you make sure you’re showing up each match day in the finest threads possible.</p>
<p>Blackburn Rovers has confirmed a new partnership that will see the club’s kit sponsorship move from Umbro to the Nike brand from the start of the 2013-14 season.</p>
<p>The Umbro sponsorship, which has been in place since 2007, will continue to the end of the current 2012-13 season, after which all kit, training wear and related products will be designed, manufactured and distributed by Nike until 2016.</p>
<p>The sports giant will be the official and recognized technical partner on all of Rovers’ replica kits, which will go on sale later this summer.</p>
<p>Greg Coar, Rovers’ Head of Commercial and Marketing, said: “We are delighted to confirm that Rovers are set to start a new partnership with Nike. We are certain that our supporters will be excited by this new partnership and will be looking forward to seeing the iconic blue-and-white halves and the world famous Nike brand on our kits this summer.”</p>
<p>Gareth Hosford, GM Nike UK Football, said: “We are delighted to add Blackburn Rovers to the Nike football family. We look forward to building on the successful partnership the club has already enjoyed with Umbro and working closely with the club and the fans over the coming seasons.”</p>
Rafa Gonzales
2013-02-15T18:20:00Z
Puma Perfect the Balance of Power and Accuracy in latest Puma PowerCat 1 FG
Rafa Gonzales
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Puma-Perfect-the-Balance-of-Power-and-Accuracy-in-latest-Puma-PowerCat-1-FG/-406051907198293333.html
2013-02-14T18:35:00Z
2013-02-14T18:35:00Z
<p>In our attempts to bring you the latest and greatest in footballing equipment, clothing and technology, we’re really excited to bring you the latest from the Puma.</p>
<p>Yesterday, PUMA introduced the latest in their Power range of boots. The PowerCat 1 FG in metallic white, red and blue colorway combines highly developed technologies and advancements.</p>
<p>PUMA athlete Cesc Fabregas was pictured in these boots at his exclusive training session we wrote about yesterday, and the Spaniard will also be wearing them on pitch this weekend against Granada.</p>
<p><img style="margin: 5px; float: right;" src="/images/blog/PowerCat 1 FG 2.jpg" alt="" width="356" height="214" />PowerCat 1 FG is designed for players who long for power and accuracy, while providing increased kicking power and improved ball grip through our PUMA 3D PST DUO Technology. Featuring soft premium K-Leather that enhances fit and comfort and a lightweight microfiber material in the lateral quarter to support the midfoot. <br /><br />Cesc praised his weapon of choice, "The boot not only gives me the power and accuracy I need on the pitch, also its comfort helps me perform to my best potential”.</p>
<p>When asked what it was about the boot that makes it the boot of choice, Cesc said, “To me the boot is the perfect combination of technologies and it helps me do what is most important – score goals. I have been in this boot for a while now and I will continue to do so in the future”.</p>
<p><img style="margin: 5px; float: left;" src="/images/blog/Fabregas_Q2_3.jpg" alt="" width="296" height="206" />Fabregas spoke of how Puma are pushing the envelope. “The technology keeps enhancing and the colorways keep evolving, which always excites me to wear the next PUMA Power boot.” <br /><br />The PowerCat 1 FG will be available in store on the 3/1/13</p>
<p>For more images, checkout <a href="http://www.facebook.com/#!/PumaFootball?fref=ts" target="_blank">Puma Football’s Facebook page </a>or the <a href="http://www.facebook.com/#!/WorldFootballDaily" target="_blank">World Football Daily Facebook page</a>.</p>
Rafa Gonzales
2013-02-14T18:35:00Z
The Training Never Stops for Fabregas, and 17 Lucky Winners Get to Train Alongside the Barcelona Star.
Rafa Gonzales
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/The-Training-Never-Stops-for-Fabregas,-and-17-Lucky-Winners-Get-to-Train-Alongside-the-Barcelona-Star./6332310567635610.html
2013-02-13T22:09:00Z
2013-02-13T22:09:00Z
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="line-height: 115%; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">On a day when most people are looking to Madrid for the Champions League clash between Manchester United and Real Madid, another Champions continues training ahead of his upcoming Champions League match next week. Cesc Fabregas, the Puma footballer, was out today in Barcelona training for next week's match up with Italian giants AC Milan. <br /><br />But Cesc didn't train alone. Oh no.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span class="object2"><span style="line-height: 115%; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><span style="color: #00008b;">Today</span></span></span><span style="line-height: 115%; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">, PUMA gave 17 competition winners the opportunity to train and meet FC Barcelona midfielder and PUMA Power player, Cesc Fabregas in Barcelona, Spain. The competition organized by PUMA, gave a once in a lifetime opportunity to fans from around the world to hang and play with Cesc. </span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="line-height: 115%; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">"It was an amazing experience to meet fans from different countries for this training session. I am happy that I have met such interesting people and was impressed by the footballing talent they demonstrated this afternoon, which is always very encouraging to see.” Cesc said of the training session.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="line-height: 115%; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">“ It was a great experience to interact with fans on a much more personal level. I really enjoyed it and hope they did too."</span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="line-height: 115%; font-size: 12pt;"> <br /><img style="margin: 5px auto; display: block;" src="/images/blog/Fabregas 1.jpg" alt="" width="468" height="235" /><br /></span><span style="line-height: 115%; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">As part of PUMA Football's everyday initiative, training tips, videos and other exclusive football content is regularly published on its global Facebook page, </span><span class="object3"><span style="line-height: 115%; font-size: 12pt;"><a href="http://www.facebook.com/pumafootball" target="_blank"><span id="OBJ_PREFIX_DWT365_com_zimbra_url"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><span style="color: blue; mso-bidi-font-family: Tahoma;">www.facebook.com/pumafootball</span></span></span></a></span></span><span style="line-height: 115%; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">. </span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="line-height: 115%; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Next up is Manchester City's top striker and PUMA Speed Player, Sergio Aguero who will welcome fans at the beginning of March for a similar training experience.</span></span></p>
<p><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Fabregas 3.jpg" alt="" width="462" height="260" /></p>
<div id="_mcePaste" class="mcePaste" style="position: absolute; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden; top: 0px; left: -10000px;"></div>
Rafa Gonzales
2013-02-13T22:09:00Z
Juve and Celtic both Suffer From Additional Indecisiveness.
Oliver Wilson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Juve-and-Celtic-both-Suffer-From-Additional-Indecisiveness./784014290753927060.html
2013-02-12T22:02:00Z
2013-02-12T22:02:00Z
<p>Juventus pulled, dragged, kicked and screamed their way to a rugged and devilishly effective 3-0 win last night at Celtic Park despite a spirited and gutsy performance from the home side.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Celtic's gaffer, Neil Lennon, was pleased with the way his side took the game to the Italian giants, despite the eventual score line, before the former Hoops player raised questions about the games officiating.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Why was Stephan Lichtsteiner allowed to manhandle anyone who came within three feet of his goalkeeper at every corner, and where was the call from the supposedly effective extra official on the goal line?</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Similarly, Juventus could have been denied their opening goal of the game after three minutes were it not for Claudio Marchisio and his presence of mind to drill home a second attempt on goal, after Alessandro Matri’s initial strike was cleared from behind the line.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>We see them on the continent, on both Champions League and Europa League nights, but have we ever seen them actually do anything?</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Holding what appears to be a vibrating baton in their hands, they were meant to be the difference makers in our beloved game, the ones to help bring another level of justice and rule enforcement to the sport.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>But instead they bring frustration to fans, players and managers alike and despite the obvious use of another pair of eyes for any incident that takes place around the 18-yard-box, they cause more controversy then they solve.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The additional officials' big mistake last night may not have been as criminal as the penalty shout Mario Balotelli had for Manchester City in the final seconds of their tie against Ajax last November, but it could well have been.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>When Matri tucked the ball underneath the flailing Frazer Forster few thought Kelvin Wilson would be able to scramble the ball away before the ball crossed the line. He didn’t, yet play continued after Wilson’s desperate clearance.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Thankfully for Antonio Conte's side, Marchisio was on hand to fire the ball into the Celtic goal for certain and midway through the first half websites, television networks and twitter feeds updated the scoreline to read that Matri was the scorer. But had Marchisio not been there to ensure the ball hit the back of the net, would play have been pulled back?</p>
<p> </p>
<p>We heard no whistle, saw no movement from the additional official until the Juve #8's strike hit the roof of the net, and had Celtic cleared the ball away, Juve could well have been denied their third minute advantage.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>They've come under plenty of criticism throughout their inception in the sport, but both Matri’s goal and the lack of action taken against Lichtsteiner in his continuous battle with Gary Hooper at every Celtic corner, highlight just how ineffective the two extra pairs of eyes are along the goal-line.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The extra official experiment has been in place since 2008 and has grown from being used in European Under-19 Championship games, to being used in all major UEFA competitions, and the governing body see it as being a success.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Fans and pundits, however, beg to differ, with many of us unable to remember a time when we’ve seen the extra official do little more then look fearful in the face of adversity.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>There was once an incident in last year's Europa League Final when Mark Clattenburg waved his stick and shook his head during to indicate there was no foul or penalty kick to be given, but the Englishman is the only additional referee to have seemingly made a big decision on a pitch.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>They need guts, or we need technology because at the moment, anyone could be a UEFA match official.</p>
Oliver Wilson
2013-02-12T22:02:00Z
Soccer v Football as explained by Juve Jay
Rafa Gonzales
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Soccer-v-Football-as-explained-by-Juve-Jay/-183810339592585835.html
2013-02-11T16:42:00Z
2013-02-11T16:42:00Z
<p>Rafa,</p>
<div> I was letting this go until your most recent rant on <span id="OBJ_PREFIX_DWT202_com_zimbra_date" class="Object">today</span>'s (<span id="OBJ_PREFIX_DWT203_com_zimbra_date" class="Object">Thursday</span>'s) show. It is not true that the WHOLE rest of the world uses the term "football." As a matter of fact, not even the whole United Kingdom uses the term football.</div>
<div>The English speaking world are basically divided into 2 categories. Countries that have their own game called football and those that don't. Ireland including Northern Ireland (part of the UK) uses football to mean Gaelic football. Though you will find people who call Gaelic football Gaelic and association football is called football.</div>
<div>Australians usually mean Aussie Rules or sometimes Rugby League when they say football. Their national team are the Socceroos.</div>
<div>New Zealanders usually mean Rugby Union when they say football. They use soccer.</div>
<div>In South Africa, they use soccer, and they created a word "sokker" in Afrikaans.</div>
<p>Non-English speaking countries fall into 4 categories. </p>
<div>1) languages which just took the name football straight into their language as the name of the game. These include a large chunk of your European languages.</div>
<div>2) languages where "football" was translated literally into their language. These include German, Dutch, Finnish, Estonian, and Hebrew. This group also includes most of the Celtic languages (Welsh, Manx, Scottish Gaelic, Breton)</div>
<div>3) languages that adopted "soccer" as the name of the game. These include Japanese (sakka), Afrikaans (sokker), and Irish (sacar)</div>
<div>4) languages that made their own word for the game, the most famous of which is Calcio. Other countries beside Italy that have their own word are Croatia, Slovenia, Hungary, Poland, Myanmar, Vietnam, Malaysia, and Korea.</div>
<div>So, as you can see, not EVERYBODY uses the word football to mean the beautiful game.</div>
<div><br /> - Jay in Peekskill, NY</div>
<div><br />P.s. - I realize that I just wrote a novel, and I don't expect you to read this on air. It's just I've been having this argument with England-centric football snobs for literally decades. There is a really good Wikipedia page on this at <span> </span><span id="OBJ_PREFIX_DWT204_com_zimbra_url" class="Object"><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Names_for_association_football" target="_blank">http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Names_for_association_football</a></span></div>
Rafa Gonzales
2013-02-11T16:42:00Z
WFD Exclusive: "I owe San Jose And Wando a lot," says former Quake, Dawkins.
Oliver Wilson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/WFD-Exclusive:-I-owe-San-Jose-And-Wando-a-lot,-says-former-Quake,-Dawkins./982966266150511688.html
2013-02-10T23:59:00Z
2013-02-10T23:59:00Z
<p>Making your first Premier League appearance can be a daunting prospect for any young footballer, but new Aston Villa Loanee Simon Dawkins was as cool as a cucumber following his first run out as a Premier League footballer in a thrilling 2-1 win against West Ham on Sunday afternoon.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The 25-year-old, who joined the Villans from Tottenham on transfer deadline day this January, had never made an appearance in the Premier League until Sunday despite being on the books at White Hart Lane since 2007 and was delighted to finally have got his feet on a top flight football pitch in England.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>“Really, really good," Dawkins replied when he was asked how it felt to finally make his first Premier League appearance.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>“I’m just happy to get on the field and get the win so I’m happy with that.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>“It’s good to finally get that first appearance and push on from here.”</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Dawkins played two seasons of regular football in America’s Major League Soccer, joining the San Jose Earthquakes for the 2011 and 2012 seasons. His 53 appearances for the club, that included 120 minutes of playoff football against 2012 MLS Cup champions the LA Galaxy, has helped prepare the midfielder for the half season in the Midlands, and Dawkins is extremely thankful that Fank Yallop was willing to bring him into the Quakes side for an extended period of time.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>“With all the injuries I’ve had, all I’ve wanted to do is just play a full season without a major injury,” he added.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>“I did that for two years in America and it really helped me develop my game and, like I said, now this is the next step so hopefully I can push on even more.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>“I’m very thankful [to the Earthquakes]. I can’t thank them enough. To go there and for them to give me the backing and just basically say play your game and just do the best you can is great.”</p>
<p> </p>
<p>While in Californishad the opportunity to learn and develop the attacking side of his game with one of MLS’ soon-to-be Hall of Famer Chris Wondolowski, and Dawkins, like many, is convinced that the American international is good enough to play in Europe.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>“I think so. The right opportunities hopefully will come for him.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>“He can definitely do it.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>“I’ve learnt a lot from him on just how to finish. Last year, people that saw MLS, saw that so it’s great to be around him.”</p>
<p> </p>
<p>To hear more from Simon and his interview with Ollie listen to Mondays edition of the show</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
Oliver Wilson
2013-02-10T23:59:00Z
Congrats to Ashley Cole on 100 Caps for England...in Style.
Rafa Gonzales
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Congrats-to-Ashley-Cole-on-100-Caps-for-England...in-Style./-640037487419884140.html
2013-02-07T02:14:00Z
2013-02-07T02:14:00Z
We love Ashley Cole here at World Football Daily. <br /><br />There is something about the way that Ashley does it that we can't help but admire.<br /><br />
<div class="postContent "><img style="float: right; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/HOTEL_98355_R1_large.jpg" alt="" width="196" height="140" />Nike athlete Ashley Cole will join England’s 100 cap club when he takes to the Wembley pitch against Brazil this evening. He becomes only the seventh player to reach this milestone. Even more impressively, Ashley has made the starting XI every single time. Ashley can celebrate 100 England caps, 100 England starts, over 8,166 minutes played and five international tournaments.
<p>To mark this landmark occasion, Cole will run out in a pair of personalized Nike Tiempo Legend IV boots. The boots are embroidered with messages designed to celebrate his achievement: a St George’s cross, his initials and squad number ("AC 3"), "England vs Brazil" and "100th Cap."</p>
<p><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/HOTEL_98379_R1_large.jpg" alt="" /></p>
Ashley's boots were presented to him Feb. 5 at The FA's St George’s Park facility in a specially designed presentation box.
<p>Crafted from premium leather designed to provide a soft, supple touch and comfortable fit, the Tiempo Legend IV, like all Nike football boots, includes All Conditions Control (ACC) technology. Using an innovative coating, ACC ensures that the boot upper delivers consistent friction between foot and ball in wet and dry weather conditions alike.</p>
</div>
<img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/HOTEL_98412_R1_large.jpg" alt="" /><br /><br />Congrats "Cashely".<br />
Rafa Gonzales
2013-02-07T02:14:00Z
Not Club Nor Country: Odemwingie's 10 Day Struggle
Oliver Wilson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Not-Club-Nor-Country:-Odemwingies-10-Day-Struggle/-192618639208428742.html
2013-02-05T23:37:00Z
2013-02-05T23:37:00Z
<p>It really could be 10 of the worst days in Peter Odemwingie’s career come Monday night. </p>
<p> </p>
<p>Not only is there a huge question mark over his possible inclusion in West Bromwich Albion’s squad list for their tie against Liverpool that evening at Anfield – a fixture that saw the striker score the only goal of the game last season in a thrilling first win at the historic ground since 1967 - but Sunday could see the his national side lift the African Nations trophy if they can get past Mali on Wednesday afternoon.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Most footballers would be delighted to see their country lift their continents major trophy but Odemwingie is no ordinary footballer. The Uzbekistani born forward has represented Nigeria – where his father was born - on 55 occasions, scoring nine goals in the process, but has fallen out with the national team chiefs, including former coach Samson Siasia.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>In December the Baggies forward announced that he was retiring from the national side after being left out of their African Nations 2013 squad, and he lambasted the countries FA in the process.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>“It is clear now that my days with the Super Eagles are over,” said Odemwingie on December 22<sup>nd</sup>.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>“I played a very good 10 years from 2002 to 2012. It was getting there [to retirement] but maybe it’s happened earlier than I thought.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>“I wasn’t keen to play for him [current head coach Stephen Keshi] if I didn’t have to, but then the Federation got involved and the Nigerian fans mean a lot to me, so I said if they wanted me to play I would go, even though I wasn’t still welcome.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>“So when, in the first match with the new coach, he substituted me, I thought ‘OK’. After that he didn’t call me and I didn’t talk to him.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>“The manager [Keshi] wants to present it in a way that has nothing to do with football, that I confronted him and said he couldn’t substitute me early. But we just had a nice conversation and I said to him ‘coach, if you don’t see me in your team, don’t try to find stories, just tell me. It’s very easy’.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><img style="float: right; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/PeterOdemwingieNigeria.jpg" alt="" width="279" height="209" />“I don’t want to be with a coach who doesn’t want me, like the previous one [Siasia] for some reason.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>“One day I will give the reason why I fell out with the previous one in the Olympic games and after.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>“Nigerians like to be bossy and maybe it’s just part of it. The coaches like to be big men but it affects a lot of people and I won’t bow my head to anyone.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>After this tirade Odemwengie was destined to never play for Nigeria again, both by his own choice, and the decision of the FA. Will he be pleased to see Nigeria lift the Cup of Nations on Sunday? I don’t think so.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Odemwingie is also having to deal with the fallout from his bizarre actions last Thursday during the final day of the January transfer window.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>“We'll deal with it,” said his teammate Steven Reid on Tuesday. </p>
<p> </p>
<p>“We've got a lot of strong characters in the dressing room. Peter's with us from now until the end of the season and we've got to deal with it as a squad."</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Reid may have said that the situation surrounding his barmy deadline day antics will not affect the club, and maybe the club will be fine, but will Odemwingie? Will he feel comfortable when he faces the press for the first time or when he joins in in training ground ‘banter’?</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Again, it’s unlikely and Odemwingie will have to once again reacclimatise himself to the West Bromwich way of life, like an outsider joining the club for a fresh start, especially after the conflicting reports from last Thursday, with Odemwingie claiming he was given permission to travel to Loftus Road.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>It’s unlikely then, that if the Baggie’s win on Monday, and Nigeria are successful in winning the African Nations – a tournament that this year, has been pretty dire to watch – the forward will not be all smiles for either club, or country.</p>
Oliver Wilson
2013-02-05T23:37:00Z
Neymar Helps Nike Unveil the New Brazil Home Kit
Rafa Gonzales
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Neymar-Helps-Nike-Unveil-the-New-Brazil-Home-Kit/-556389283232101218.html
2013-01-31T23:53:00Z
2013-01-31T23:53:00Z
<p>The iconic canary yellow kit of Brazil, unveiled by the face of Brazilian football on the Copacabana Beach in Rio de Janiero. Seems fitting.<br /><br />Against the spectacular backdrop of Rio de Janeiro’s Copacabana beach, Nike and Brazil star Neymar today unveiled the new Brazil home kit for 2013. The most storied national team kit in football was launched as a part of "Batalha das Quadras" (“Battle of the Court”), a competition for young players to play small-sided football on a variety of surfaces to sharpen their skills and celebrate the game. The new kit will be worn for the first time against England on February 6.</p>
<p><img style="float: right; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Neymar_Brazil_Home_Kit_2_original_large[1].jpg" alt="" />The competition honors the unique heritage of Brazilian football where many of the world’s great players -- including Ronaldo, Neymar and Ronaldinho -- first honed their skills playing street football and small-sided games.</p>
<p>The new Brazil home kit features the classic colors of football’s most iconic shirt combined with design innovation, giving a nation obsessed with football everything they want from their famous jersey. The Brazilian kit is like a national flag; it symbolizes a nation. It must be understated, it must be pure and it must inspire.</p>
<p>"The people's jersey" belongs to Brazilians, and Nike’s new kit reflects the passion and inspiration that the Seleção brings to the nation as a whole. The people demand that their team speaks for them and plays in a way that reflects the country’s natural rhythm.</p>
<p>"To wear the 'amarelinha' is the greatest honor for me and my teammates," Neymar said. "Football is part of our lives in this country and the new Brazil kit is a classic design with all the technology that we need to perform."</p>
<p>A modern classic, the kit has all the tradition linked to the iconic strip that has captured the imagination of the football world for so many decades.</p>
<p>The jersey has a classic rib collar in green with a V inset. Laser venting, bonded seams and hemline vents provide performance benefits for the modern player while the minimalistic, classic look of the jersey resonates with the traditions of Brazilian football.</p>
<p><img style="float: left; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Nike_Football_Brazil_Home_Jersey_(6_2)_large[1].jpg" alt="" width="404" height="333" />The shorts are classic blue with bonded white strips along each side and venting to aid movement and an inner gusset to aid comfort. The socks are white with green trim with “Brazil” detail on each.</p>
<p>In line with Nike’s commitment to combining performance with lower environmental impact, the fabric for the new kit’s shorts is made with 100 percent recycled polyester, while the shirt fabric is made with a minimum 96 percent recycled polyester. Each kit (jersey and shorts) is made using an average 13 recycled plastic bottles.</p>
<p>The kits are constructed using Nike Dri-FIT technology to wick moisture and are made out of 23 percent lighter fabric with 20 percent stronger knit structure than Nike’s previous kits. The shirts also feature laser-cut ventilation holes to promote localized cooling, to help regulate player temperatures during a match.</p>
<p>Off the pitch, fans can also show their support for Brazil with a collection of CBD lifestyle clothing inspired by the canarinho of 1962 and iconic national team of that era. Collection items include a V-neck jersey, polo shirt, hoodie and shorts featuring Chilean insignia that pays homage to the host nation of the world’s greatest football tournament, held that that year.<br /><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Neymar_Brazil_Home_Kit_1_large[1].jpg" alt="" /></p>
Rafa Gonzales
2013-01-31T23:53:00Z
Is Rafa really to blame at Chelsea?
Oliver Wilson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Is-Rafa-really-to-blame-at-Chelsea/-30639095999316780.html
2013-01-30T23:08:00Z
2013-01-30T23:08:00Z
<p>“Rafa Out!” will read the banners in the away end of the ground formerly know as the Sports Direct Stadium on Saturday afternoon.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Chelsea fans were angry when Rafael Benitez turned up at the door of Roman Abramovich’s empire. They were livid when they realized he wasn’t there as a member of the catering staff.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>They’ve been calling for his head ever since, and draws with Queens Park Rangers and Brentford, a loss to QPR, and the inability to bring home a World Club Championship, have done nothing but add fuel to their fire. A fire that once burned an effigy of the former Liverpool manager, is now being prepared for the real thing, as Chelsea threw away a two goal lead in spectacularly late style to draw away at relegation fighters Reading on Wendesday night.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>If their title hopes were almost extinguished before their midweek tie, even the most faithful of Blues fans can now be seen just praying for a Champions League birth come the end of the season.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>But should we blame the manager?</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Sure he’s still playing the ever frustrating (if a little harshly treated) Fernando Torres over a fully fit, and frightfully dangerous, Demba Ba, and Chelsea are still playing the 4-2-3-1 formation that Roberto Di Matteo used to win a Champions League and lose his job under a year later.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>There must be something in the water…… or at least in the board room.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Benitez has not stamped his usual calm, solid, defensive stamp on this Chelsea side, despite the extended amount of time he’s had in the job, and has instead stuck with Di Matteo’s style of football. Torres remains isolated and is becoming more then useless in his form and presence on the pitch, so much so that even the most bemused manager in football can see he either needs a long break or a strike partner.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>So are these the tactics that Rafa -or Di Matteo - wants to employ?</p>
<p>Abramovich’s influence on the club is well known. He wants to win games, but wants his club to do it with style and beautiful football – which explains why he was so desperate to land Pep Guardiola before his major move to Bayern.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>He buys the players he wants, and you have to wonder if he too picks the team sheet. Why else would Fernando still be involved during such a torrid run of form?</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Managers are there to manage, and there is a worry filtering through some of Chelsea’s supporters that at Chelsea, they’re not allowed to do just that. It may in fact be Roman’s drive and desire to succeed that is preventing Chelsea from progressing on from the fairy tale of last season.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Three good managers have tried and failed at the club in the last 18-months and a pattern is emerging at Chelsea.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Andre Villas-Boas struggled at Chelsea but has begun to create something that could be a little special at Tottenham since his departure from the club that almost killed his managerial reputation. Di Matteo hit problems this season with Roman breathing down his kneck, and now Benitez is in the same situation, with almost the same team, and the same tactics as the previous two.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Rafa may be an easy scape goat for the fans to moan at considering his history with the club – and that’s a fact Rafa – but Roman, despite the success his chopping and changing of managers has brought, may have reached breaking point with his side if he is indeed involving himself with the on pitch decision making.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>What happens next for Chelsea is unknown. But my goodness they need something to change, because, “Champions of Europe…… You’re having a laugh.”</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
Oliver Wilson
2013-01-30T23:08:00Z
Get The Tech Specs On Scotland`s Top Flight Match Ball, The Mitre Tensile
Rafa Gonzales
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Get-The-Tech-Specs-On-Scotland`s-Top-Flight-Match-Ball,-The-Mitre-Tensile/-802233419343149621.html
2013-01-30T16:15:00Z
2013-01-30T16:15:00Z
<p>The Mitre Tensile Football is the official ball of the Scottish Premier League and there are many factors that make it an ideal choice. Its design makes it perfect for use in the frequently harsh weather conditions seen in Scotland and improved overall control has seen it welcomed by players and coaches alike.<br /><br />Unlike many other footballs, the Mitre Tensile only uses ten panels in its construction and as a result, there is thirty per cent less stitching than other, similar balls that have been used in the past. Fewer balls and less stitching mean that it flies through the air in a more consistent trajectory and it is less prone to unnatural swerving as it travels. <br /><br />The overall aerodynamics of the football are further enhanced by the material used in its construction. Clarino micro fibre is the key component in the production process and it is this material that makes the Mitre Tensile flow fast and true.<br /><br />However, one of the key reasons why this football is popular with the Scottish FA is its consistenc in all weathers. Many games in Scotland are postponed in the winter months due to either snow, frost, rain or a combination of any of those factors.<br /><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/511279572-21052012095720.jpg" alt="" /><br />Many games that are played see icy or heavy, waterlogged pitches but the Tensile`s design copes with them perfectly. The Clarino Micro Fibre, coupled with the reduction in panels and stitching means that the ball grips better on any surface and the players have far more control over the football as a result.<br />That grip is consistent irrespective of whether the game is played on a firm surface on a hot day, or on a boggy pitch in the middle of winter. The roll and flight of the ball is true no matter what and the Tensile ball resists the exaggerated bounce of hard pitches and it will travel superbly on the wettest of surfaces.<br />Its unique design has been endorsed by players in Scotland and in England`s Npower Championship where the Mitre Tensile has also been introduced. Footballers and coaches affirm that their control is greater than other footballs and the flight and pace of the ball is consistent every time.<br /><br />Goalkeepers are also far happier with the introduction of the Mitre Tensile because it doesn`t move unnaturally in the air. Opponents can still use their skill to put swerve on the football but the Tensile doesn`t get affected by wind or air pressure that could make it move about as it travels towards goal.<br />Naturally, the Mitre Tensile Football complies with all the regulations laid down by the game`s governing body FIFA. The laws state that the weight of a compliant football must be between 410 and 450 grammes whilst the minimum circumference must be 68 millimetres and this can increase up to a top limit of 70.<br /><br /></p>
The Mitre Tensile football has been made available for sale to the public and they can now be found in a <a href="http://www.sportsballshop.co.uk/acatalog/Rugby-Balls.html">www.sportsballshop.co.uk</a> anywhere in the UK. They are a great investment for individuals and for local amateur teams thanks to their unique design and revolutionary technology.<img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/mitrepracticeball.jpg" alt="" />
Rafa Gonzales
2013-01-30T16:15:00Z
Adidas Unveil Champions League Final Ball
Oliver Wilson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Adidas-Unveil-Champions-League-Final-Ball/160436859919454850.html
2013-01-30T16:04:00Z
2013-01-30T16:04:00Z
On May 25<sup>th</sup> Wembley will host its seventh Champions League final, a record for any host venue of this prestigious fixture, and a great honor for the FA during their 150<sup>th</sup> anniversary year.
<p> </p>
<p>The two names battling it out on that Saturday night are unknown for now – although many of us expect at least one Spanish side’s name to be on one of the dressing room doors at Wembley that evening – but the ball they will use to etch their name into history has been unveiled today.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The adidas Finale Wembley was revealed to World Football Daily today and we have the images to prove it.</p>
<p> <img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/AJS_Adidas_SS13_PPP_Individual 33_1070.jpg" alt="The adidas Finale Wembley" width="311" height="207" /></p>
<p>As a venue, Wembley stadium is as iconic as they come, and has seen some of the worlds greatest clubs lift club football’s ultimate trophy inside its great walls. The great AC Milan team of ’63, Manchester United in ’78, Ajax in ’71, Liverpool in ’78 side and Barcelona’s all-conquering teams in ’92 and 2011 have all lifted the European Cup at the home of football, and adidas’ new ball honours that tradition with it’s bold design and colour scheme, and the dates of 1963 & 2013 placed inside the two middle stars on the front of the ball.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The designers say, “The aesthetic of the ball reflects these events, incorporating the years in which the finals took place into the well-known star panel design - an iconic feature of adidas’ official match balls for the competition. The technical graphics and the expressive colour scheme come together to reflect the grandeur of the occasion where this year’s winners will be crowned in front of the near 90,000-strong crowd.”</p>
<p> </p>
<p>We say it looks fantastic. <img style="float: right; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/AJS_Adidas_SS13_PPP_Individual 33_1082.jpg" alt="" width="331" height="220" /></p>
<p> </p>
<p>“Vice President of Global Sports Marketing Football for adidas, Claus Peter-Mayer seems to agree with us saying, <em>“adidas has created a ball to celebrate the finals staged at Wembley which, in turn, is a fitting tribute to this season’s eventual finalists and a wonderful compliment to what is surely going to be a great occasion.”</em></p>
<p><em> </em></p>
<p>The adidas Finale Wembley will be used on field during UEFA Champions League matches from February 12th and is available for purchase in adidas retail stores and associated stockists as of 1<sup>st</sup> February.</p>
<p> </p>
Oliver Wilson
2013-01-30T16:04:00Z
The FA Cup: Who Wants It More
Oliver Wilson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/The-FA-Cup:-Who-Wants-It-More/35840501332463474.html
2013-01-28T23:44:00Z
2013-01-28T23:44:00Z
<p class="ecxmsonormal">Just when we thought Bradford City’s incredible journey to the League Cup final last week was the story of the season, this weekend’s FA Cup carnage had many of us sat gob smacked, staring at our television screens in amazement.</p>
<p class="ecxmsonormal">The reigning European Champions were almost toppled by League One’s Brentford - a game which saw the underdog look like the top god for 70 minutes or so – MK Dons destroyed a weakened Queens Park Rangers side, Leeds United toppled a near full strength Tottenham, Norwich City were beaten by non-league Luton, and Liverpool were beaten by a team with just three sides to their ground, Oldham Athletic.</p>
<p class="ecxmsonormal">After I’d stopped laughing on Sunday night – more because I didn’t know how else to react to a weekend of pure unpredictability then out of any joy taken in seeing some of England’s elite clubs in such bizarre circumstances – a question dawned on me. How important is the FA Cup as a trophy at this point?</p>
<p class="ecxmsonormal">Sure, we saw some teams play a number of reserve team players and youngsters this weekend but now we’re in the business end of the competition, and four clubs will mean business.</p>
<p class="ecxmsonormal">With plenty of the Premier League’s ‘big dogs’ out of the competition, just four real challengers remain in the competition, and those four could easily end up being the Premier League’s final top four come the end of the season.</p>
<p>So who does it mean the most to?</p>
<p>Arsene Wenger’s last piece of silverware was the 2005 FA Cup trophy. Eight years later and Wenger sits atop a very fragile throne at the Emirates. The fans continue to call for his departure with every loss, while a major share holder in the club, Alisher Usmanov, has accused the French manager of turning the club into a feeder club for it’s rivals. A cup final victory could save his job at Arsenal at the end of the season, or would boost his own stock in the managerial market, should he and the club part ways this summer. Either way, with just three major rivals remaining in the draw, expectation on Wenger to deliver the goods this season will now be as high as ever, especially with a home draw against Blackburn awaiting in the last 16.</p>
<p>Roberto Mancini’s first trophy at Manchester City came two years ago when his side beat Stoke City at Wembley in the FA Cup final. Last season his club pulled off the most dramatic Premier League win we are ever likely to see, and the weight of expectation for the Italian to bring another trophy to the club this season is huge. It was supposed to be the Champions League – a natural progression of FA Cup, to a league title, and then to European glory – but success in Europe has evaded the former Sampdoria player on his first two attempts as a manager at the Etihad.</p>
<p><img style="float: right; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Rafael-Benitez[1].jpg" alt="" />With United leading the title race, there is a strong possibility that, unless a long, grueling, Europa League competition is taken seriously this year, the FA Cup could be the only piece of silverware Mancini will have a chance to grab this season. And with Jose Mourinho looking ready and available to take a job in the Premier League in 2013/14, Roberto will need something in his trophy cabinet to persuade the City board to stick with him for another season.</p>
<p>Mourinho’s potential availability this summer will also have been noted by Roman Abramovich and his interim manager at Chelsea, Rafa Benitez. </p>
<p>While fans in Madrid may like the idea of a Rafa, Jose, swap deal with The Blues, the Spaniard has made it know that he would be keen to carry on at Chelsea and make his position at the club a more permanent one. But having lost to Southampton, and drawn with QPR, both at home, and having been unable to get past Brentford at the first time of asking in the FA Cup fourth round, Rafa’s position at the club is hanging in the balance. The fans don’t want him, and Abramovich has been livid with his caretaker manager already this season after poor results. Now, having been knocked out of the League Cup, and being 11 points off the top of the table, Chelsea must rely, like City may have to, on either the Europa League or the FA Cup for silverware. And if Rafa wants the job, he’ll need to bring one of those to trophies home.</p>
<p>All three of these managers are looking at the FA Cup as a way of potentially ending their jobs, but one manager might use it to bring his to an end.</p>
<p><img style="margin: 5px; float: left;" src="/images/blog/158391530_crop_exact[1].jpg" alt="" width="296" height="188" />Sir Alex Ferguson is the most decorated manager in Premier League history and has managed United for over 25 year. Many have wondered when Sir Alex will step down from his role as the all powerful leader of the Red Devils, and some thought it would happen two years ago after his side reached the Champions League final at Wembley. But their crushing loss to the always-impressive Barcelona appeared to give the Scotsman renewed vigor as he looked to topple Barcelona off their perch in European football. </p>
<p>Barca, though, have gone from strength to strength in the last two years, and their crown looks far from slipping off the top of their heads. Ferguson could easily admit defeat and accept his United side to be second to the Catalan giants and no one would hold it against him or his impressive record. So would then, a league and cup double be enough to move the Sir Alex out of the dugout at Old Trafford. He would leave the club two league titles ahead of Liverpool and at the top of English football with its two most important trophies. </p>
<p>It would also give him the opportunity to deny three of his clubs biggest rivals, and three of his most disliked managerial rivals, a trophy they all need to win.</p>
<p>All four managers would love to get their hands on a trophy many consider to be far less prestigious or important as it was 30 years ago, and with us entering the business round of the cup – assuming Chelsea will get past Brentford in their fourth round replay at Stamford Bridge – the importance of this years FA Cup just went up a few notches.</p>
Oliver Wilson
2013-01-28T23:44:00Z
Drogba will be heating it up in the new Nike Mercurial Vapor IX
Rafa Gonzales
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Drogba-will-be-heating-it-up-in-the-new-Nike-Mercurial-Vapor-IX/-185578376856395430.html
2013-01-28T17:09:00Z
2013-01-28T17:09:00Z
<p>The boot has been blazing up and down the pitches of top leagues and competitions world wide. The new Nike Mercurial VaporIX have been received well by footballer around the globe, but it's Drogba who will be debuting this specific "Sunset" colorway at the African Cup of Nations tournament. <br /><br />While snow fails to cool down the game in the European leagues, the South African heat is firing up Africa’s teams as they compete in the biggest continental tournament. The journey starts for the African legend that is Didier Drogba. He has won all major titles with his club and is hoping to finally bring the cup home for football fans in Ivory Coast.</p>
<p><img style="margin: 5px; float: right;" src="/images/blog/JGL_7012_large[1].jpg" alt="" width="399" height="256" />“It would mean a lot for Ivory Coast to win the competition this year because the team has been together for nearly 10 years through difficult moments. We’ve improved and matured as players and as people," Drogba said. "I think it would be the best moment to win for our nation. For us to look forward, forget the past struggles and to unite the country."</p>
<p>Celebrating the momentum in Drogba’s career, he will be the only player in the African tournament wearing the sunset colourway of the new Nike Mercurial Vapor IX. Since its original launch over 10 years ago, the Mercurial has always stood out. Bold and exciting, the boot’s color and design has always ensured its players are noticed. The new Vapor IX is no different.</p>
<p>“For a striker, speed is essential. How fast you run, how fast you are with the ball, how quick you are making decisions - everything has to be quick," Drogba says. "It all comes down to speed. I’ve been wearing the Mercurial for years and you can see and feel the evolution. With the new Mercurial Vapor IX you get better grip on the grass and can change direction very quickly. For example, that last minute of last year’s game -- that equalizer goal -- was a question of timing, speed and agility."<br /><br />Combining performance innovation and heritage of lightweight boots for fast players, the Nike Mercurial Vapor IX takes this legacy to the next level and gives a competitive advantage to players who rely on tight cuts and turns combined with bursts of explosive speed to beat the opposition.<br /><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/JGL_4867_large[1].jpg" alt="" /></p>
Rafa Gonzales
2013-01-28T17:09:00Z
Villa Cost Themselves Their Cup Final Place
Oliver Wilson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Villa-Cost-Themselves-Their-Cup-Final-Place/508225817374983836.html
2013-01-24T23:48:00Z
2013-01-24T23:48:00Z
<p>Cup Magic Or Aston Villa Madness.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>There’s no doubt that Aston Villa are a club in free-fall.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>A horrible Christmas period, that saw the midlanders concede 15 goals in three games, was blamed on a young, tired and inexperienced side, and many still believed after the torrid run of results, that Paul Lambert was still the man to turn around a club that has slowly been imploding on itself for the last 18 months.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>But the cup shock of losing, over two legs, to Bradford City – or the mighty Bradford City as we here at WFD call them – has sent a major shockwave through even the staunchest of Villa fans.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Every dog has its day, and the League 2 side had theirs against both Wigan and Asrenal in the early stages of the Capital One Cup earlier this season. They had their day again when Villa went to Valley Parade two weeks ago and lost 3-1. But that was expected to be the end of their Cinderella cup story, with a tough fixture at the Premier League side in the second leg of the tie still to contend with.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Last night, though, Villa shamed themselves and their fans. </p>
<p> </p>
<p>We should not take anything away from Bradford and their manager Phil Parkinson. Bradford played very very well last night, almost too well in fact.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>If this were this a cycling race, I’m sure there would be a number of Villa fans and players calling for random drug tests to be taken by their opponents.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>But we should put last nights magic 2-1 loss, that was enough that to send the first ever English fourth division side to Wembley, down to ‘cup magic’, or ‘pluck and guts’ – nor should we go looking for Armstrong style plot stories to hurl the minnows way.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Villa were bad. In fact, they were terrible.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>A panic stricken performance in the opening 45 minutes brought wild efforts from Gabby Agbonlahor, Charles N’Zogbia and Stephen Ireland, and all came close to finding the back of the net. Only the fingertips of Matt Duke prevented Villa from adding more then just the one goal to their fight back in the first period.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>When Fabian Delph struck another wayward strike from the edge of the area just before half time, Lambert could be seen calming his side down, something I’m sure he did in the dressing room at the interval.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>But a calm Villa is a wasteful Villa at the moment, and the Premier League side lost their edge in a dire second half performance. Barry Bannan was woeful with his distribution, and any sense of short sharp passing was lost to a sea of long balls and unintelligent buildup play. It was hard to work out which side was in League 2 on occasion.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>One major problem for the Villans is the lack of a spark of creativity and a level head in the midfield. It’s a side that’s really missing Stan Petrov. The calming influence of the Bulgarian midfielder hasn’t been at Villa this season - for obvious reasons - and has been missed greatly. The sooner Villa can find a replacement or are able to bring Petrov back – which we all want to see – they will continue to struggle.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>They need someone who can hold up the ball and open up space with intelligent, yet simple, passing that keeps possession and allows Villa’s attacking threats to find space created in their opponents defence. Bannan has tried to take on this role but he, like many, is too willing to fire long balls over the top to the big front men of Christian Benteke and Darren Bent - on the rare occasion the Englishman plays.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>They also have a long-standing problem with dealing with set pieces, a major factor to a number of their losses from the last two seasons. This too must be fixed as soon as possible or Villa will be staring deep into a relegation battle for the remainder of the season, and could easily lose the fight to stay alive in England’s top flight.<img style="float: right; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/LambertWave.jpg" alt="" /></p>
<p> </p>
<p>Villa will continue to rock between the rare but sublime – such as their 3-1 win at Anfield – and the dire and desperate, if solutions to these problems can’t be found.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Bradford worked hard and have earned their place at Wembley against either Swansea, but Villa did a lot of the work for them already.</p>
Oliver Wilson
2013-01-24T23:48:00Z
De Gea Slips again on Super Sunday
Oliver Wilson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/De-Gea-Slips-again-on-Super-Sunday/836658036827042785.html
2013-01-22T12:17:00Z
2013-01-22T12:17:00Z
<p>Epic Sunday? Super Sunday?</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Whatever you, or your television station, was calling it this weekend Sunday was set up to be a quite phenomenal day of Premier League Football.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>While the big London derby wetted out appetite, and showed the Jekyll and Hyde like personalities of Arsenal and Chelsea, the evening fixture, that saw Manchester United head to Tottenham, failed to excite us under snowy conditions at White Hart Lane.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>There was a tedious inevitability to Robin van Persie’s opening goal as top Cleverly’s cross whipped towards the back post, while Tottenham’s fight back lacked intensity in a slightly drab second half. Only the presence of mind displayed by Aaron Lennon gave Clint Dempsey the opportunity to dash United hearts for the second time this season.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><img style="margin: 5px; float: left;" src="/images/blog/degea[1].jpg" alt="" width="369" height="235" />The equaliser, however, did highlight, once again, the on running problem that United have in their defence. David De Gea still has trouble imposing himself in his 18-yard-box.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The 22-year-old goalkeeper had a fantastic day in North London. Moments of luck, such as his save from Gareth Bale’s deflected effort, were mixed with a some quite spectacular saves – such as his effort to deny Dempsey after the interval - and the Spaniard appeared to have all the confidence in the world.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>But as Benoit Assou-Ekotto’s last ditch cross headed to the United keeper, De Gea, as he’s shown before, failed to out muscle his way past Steven Caulker and collect, what many goalkeepers would call, a routine cross. His clearing punch wasn’t terrible, but neither was it strong, and as a result Lennon was able to find the Texas native to secure a valuable point in the North London club’s fight for fourth spot.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>De Gea’s problem was highlighted last season when United went to Anfield and Andy Carroll was used – in probably his most useful capacity in a Liverpool shirt – as a human shield in front of the United Keeper at set pieces. Carroll’s block allowed Daniel Agger to give Liverpool the lead and the goalkeeper’s ability to impose himself in his own penalty area has been a massive question mark hanging over De Gea ever since.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>This season the former Athletico Madrid keeper appeared to have put on some muscle weight and has looked more confident between the posts. There are, though, still moments of uncertainty in the goalkeeper and Sunday’s blast from the past, although rare, shows that the imperfections in his game can still be detrimental to United’s title hopes.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Sir Alex Ferguson knows he missed out on a world-class goalkeeper when he turned down Petr Cech early in his career, and De Gea was his way of making up for that mistake. But the Red Devils boss may have been too eager to snap up the next ‘big thing’ in the last line of a defence. If, after 91 minutes of near faultless goalkeeping, your man between the posts doesn’t have the confidence and prowess to get to a hanging ball in a busy six-yard-box, United might have a problem that they can only fix by looking elsewhere.<br /><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/garynevillemain[1].jpg" alt="" /></p>
Oliver Wilson
2013-01-22T12:17:00Z
Nike Mercurial Vapor IX delivers performance innovation and explosive speed
Rafa Gonzales
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Nike-Mercurial-Vapor-IX-delivers-performance-innovation-and-explosive-speed/-735881050481477458.html
2013-01-18T01:05:00Z
2013-01-18T01:05:00Z
<p>In today’s highly technical and fast game, straight line speed and ability to simply pass a player is only part of the player's skill set. Combining performance innovation and a heritage of lightweight boots for fast players, the Nike Mercurial Vapor IX takes this legacy to the next level for players who rely on tight cuts and turns combined with bursts of explosive speed to beat the opposition. </p>
<p>The Mercurial Vapor IX is engineered with a completely new upper to deliver a level of support and touch for players to deliver a deadly combination of speed and skill when it matters most. Nike’s new Speed Control texture on the upper gives players the confidence to perform at speed with enhanced friction that combines with a snug and responsive fit -- a hallmark of Mercurial boots. The Speed Control texture wraps around the foot, giving the boot friction when necessary without compromising on the soft touch the player requires. The upper also locks down the foot and prevents unnecessary movement within the boot, while a minimal and soft heel area maximizes comfort and therefore the performance of those wearing them.<img style="float: right; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Nike_Mercurial_IX_Fireberry_(4)_large.jpg" alt="" width="397" height="283" /></p>
<p>Nike’s innovative <a href="http://www.nikeinc.com/news/nike-unveils-all-conditions-control-technology-across-football-boots">All Conditions Control (ACC) technology</a> further aids performance; the special treatment now used on all Nike boots ensures a consistent touch whether playing in wet or dry weather.</p>
<p>Traction is everything for the player who relies on explosive speed and who wears the Mercurial Vapor IX. Twin studs at the back allow for a quick release from the turf, and the asymmetric design of the stud configuration delivers an explosive start. Highly responsive blades also allow for game-altering changes in direction at speed.</p>
<p>The Mercurial Vapor IX features a unique, lightweight plate, incorporating two different pieces of glass fiber that increase flexibility and responsiveness, providing energy return in the heat of the game.</p>
<p>Since its original launch over 10 years ago, the Mercurial has always stood out. Bold and exciting, the boot’s color and design has always ensured its players are noticed. The new Vapor IX is no different. Featured in striking fireberry and sunset colorways, the boot makes a bold statement on pitch. Both colorways will be available for pre-order on January 18 and on January 31 at <a href="http://www.nike.com">Nike.com</a> and retailers worldwide. </p>
<p><strong>Ronaldo blazes a trail in Nike Mercurial Vapor IX "Vapor Trail" film</strong></p>
<p><strong> </strong></p>
<p> </p>
<iframe src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/uGOU8X2JZbc" frameborder="0" height="315" width="560"></iframe>
<p>To fully comprehend explosive speed and the impact it has as it blazes its path, sometimes you need to slow everything down first. That’s the dramatic insight behind Nike’s “Vapor Trail,” a new film that illustrates Cristiano Ronaldo’s devastating combination of speed, skill and impact, all aided by his new Mercurial Vapor IX boots. </p>
<p>The Mercurial Vapor IX is engineered with a completely new upper to deliver a level of support and touch for players to dominate the opposition with lighting speed when it matters most.</p>
<p>“Vapor Trail” captures a passage of play from a pitch-level perspective that unfolds through a vortex of explosive speed. In its wake we see players, fans, stadium security, ball boys and a tumbling linesman literally blown over. No one is spared from the relentless force -- a coach loses his glasses and players cling to the dugout, seconds away from being swept away.</p>
<p>Sports photographers and police struggle to combat the relentless wave of explosive speed pitch side, huddling against flying banners and debris. </p>
<p>As the film builds to a crescendo we see the cause of this force of nature: Cristiano Ronaldo bursting out of the maelstrom, skipping past sliding defenders with lightning footwork and firing the ball into the back of the net. </p>
<p>As CR looks back on the destruction behind him the film cuts to a tag line “Be Fast. Be Mercurial.”</p>
<p><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Nike_Mercurial_IX_Fireberry_Plate_02_large.jpg" alt="" width="469" height="335" /></p>
<p><strong><em>*Courtesy of NIKE, Inc.</em></strong></p>
Rafa Gonzales
2013-01-18T01:05:00Z
Rafa wont talk about Pep's move. FACT!
Oliver Wilson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Rafa-wont-talk-about-Peps-move.-FACT!/-624980895437097913.html
2013-01-16T16:06:00Z
2013-01-16T16:06:00Z
<p class="ecxmsonormal">I’m not talking about Pep Guardiola.<br /><br />Rafa Benitez didn’t say exactly that during his post match press conference in mid-week after his Chelsea side blew a 2-0 half time lead at home to relegations strugglers Southampton.</p>
<p class="ecxmsonormal">Benitez didn’t need to say it. His attitude, his soft voice – that appeared even more hushed then normal at the start of the interrogation into his side’s draw – and his body language said it all.</p>
<p class="ecxmsonormal">He must have known the topic would crop up before his side arrived at Stamford Bridge for their Premier League tie, with Bayern Munich announcing the Catalan King would be their manager for their 2013/14 campaign just hours earlier.</p>
<p class="ecxmsonormal">The fact his side imploded after a dominant first half display may have even been beneficial to the Spanish Manager, who last week was voted as the most popular successor to Jose Mourinho at Real Madrid by readers of the Spanish paper Marca.</p>
<p class="ecxmsonormal">The questioning, as expected, was about Fernando Torres’ less then impactful involvement from the substitutes bench, about the boos that rang out for Rafa’s Spanish striker when he replaced Frank Lampard for the final 15 minutes of the game, and the fact that their last two games against QPR and the Saints have failed to bring three points.</p>
<p class="ecxmsonormal">But then came the Guardiola question. It almost burst into the room, as if the question itself had escaped from the lips that were holding it captive for the last five minutes.</p>
<p class="ecxmsonormal">“What do you make of the news that Pep Guardiola has signed with Bayern Munich?”</p>
<p class="ecxmsonormal">Benitez’ initial shrug was his attempt to stay silent on the matter, but an answer was needed.</p>
<p class="ecxmsonormal">“That has to be fine for him because he’s decided to got there,” was the tentative initial response.</p>
<p class="ecxmsonormal">“Does it surprise you?”</p>
<p class="ecxmsonormal">“Nope.”</p>
<p class="ecxmsonormal">Rafa’s biggest rival for the Chelsea job, the man who Roman Abramovich supposedly was willing to give £18,000,000 a year to join the reigning Champions of Europe, was now out of the picture. Rafa was brought in, initially, as an interim manager. It even said it next to his name on the team sheet at The Bridge.</p>
<p class="ecxmsonormal">With Guardiola out of the picture, who else, aside from Jose Mourinho, is in line to take the job.</p>
<p class="ecxmsonormal">“My job is to get three points against Arsenal,” was the Spaniards response when asked how the move affects the longevity of his reign at Chelsea. The message was clear, Benitez wants to focus on the next game in Chelsea’s schedule and move on from an embarrassing mid-week draw.</p>
<p class="ecxmsonormal"><img style="float: left; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Chelseas-interim-manager--008[1].jpg" alt="" />But there could be more to it. I Rafa realizing, first hand, what it’s lke to be ‘in charge’ at Stamford Bridge. The constant boos from the crowd, the pressure to play Torres, and the feeling that you’re not really in control at all could be hitting home, and Rafa may not want to talk about staying on at Chelsea because he doesn’t want to stay on at Chelsea.</p>
<p class="ecxmsonormal">His dream pay day is turning into a rather depressing nightmare and, as the lights on Munich in last may finally begin to fade and die above the Bridge, Rafa may want to get as far from South West London as he can.</p>
<p class="ecxmsonormal">Next stop Los Blancos?</p>
Oliver Wilson
2013-01-16T16:06:00Z
A Ballon d'Or Breakdown from Yours Truly
Oliver Wilson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/A-Ballon-dOr-Breakdown-from-Yours-Truly/-830102604869972594.html
2013-01-08T00:45:00Z
2013-01-08T00:45:00Z
1. Should Messi have won the Ballon d'Or?<br /><br />Lionel Messi is the best footballer on the planet right now. The Ballon d'Or is the reward given to the footballer who has had the most impressive and influential 12 months in that calendar year. Smashing Gerd Muller's goal scroing record is, more then likely, going to be the single most impressive achievement many of us witness while watching the modern game.<br /><br />But he is far more then just a goalscorer. His touch, his pace, and his physicality all are superior to almost all who take the field to face him and he goes about his business on the pitch with a humility that few others in a similar position would have.<br /><br />While Cristiano Ronaldo won La Liga in 2012, and Andrea Iniesta picked up the player of the tournament award at this summer's European Championships, Messi broke a record that has stood for 40 years in world football and the Argentinian's achievement will probably stand for over another 40 more. He did it in style, with class, and without anyone else approaching his skill or level of ability. We shouldn't ask whether he deserves the Ballon d'Or, but why we questioned whether he'd win it.<br /><br />2. Is it shocking that FIFA's World XI side only included La Liga players? <br /><br />It's unsurprising to see that the FIFA's World XI contained only players from La Liga - and really, aside form Falcao, only players from Real Madrid and Barcelona.<br /><br />Yes we here in England will protest this and claim that the Premier League is the 'best league in the world', and on entertainment value that may be true. But which players in Manchester United's starting XI would you bring into this World XI squad? Robin van Persie maybe?<br /><br />There are only a handful of names of players in the Premier League that stick out above any of the players in the squad chosen by FIFA. Van Persie is a possibility, but is he better then either Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi or Falcao, arguably the best finisher in the world right now. Would Juan Mata replace Xavi, Xavi Alonso or Andrea Iniesta? Sergio Aguero, Manchester City's last minute hero is another who could possibly make the squad, but he falls foul of the same problems as RVP.<br /><br />Others have clamored for Andrea Pirlo's name to be included in the list but, like Mata, he too struggles to get past what is an elite midfield.<br /><br />The back-four could arguably shuffled around, with Vincent Kompany, last year's Premier League Player of the year should be included, but both Gerard Pique and Sergio Ramos are hard to argue with. <br /><br />Similarly Jordi Alba could be included in the squad at full-back, but that would just replace one La Liga star with another.<br /><br />FIFA might as well have tossed a coin to choose between Petr Cech and Iker Casillas for the role of goal keeper, but the Spaniard won the Euro's and La Liga, while Cech brought home just one piece of silverware in 2012.<br /><br />It's frustrating and highly debatable, but the fact of the matter is that there are two teams on the planet that possess 10 of the worlds best players. <br /><br />3. Should Zlatan have been given a place in the World XI? <br /><br />Zlatan, Zlatan, Zlatan. The lynchpin in the Rossoneri's attack for the first half of the year, the driving force behind his national sides Euro 2012 campaign, and the man who Paris St Germain are, even with all their stars and millions of Euros, seemingly reliant on when their backs are against the wall.<br /><br />He scored, arguably, the best goal of 2012 against England in November and he's been the driving force of almost every side he's played for. A case could easily be made for his involvement in FIFA's World XI, but their is also a case against him holding a starting spot in their side. He's played, in 2012, in both Serie A and Ligue 1. Neither league is considered, anymore, as one of the premier leagues in Europe and, while he has achieved a lot over the last 12-months, he didn't win a league title, a Champions League, a Europa League or a European Championships winners medal.<br /><br />Messi and Ronaldo are the two best players in the world, while Falcao is playing in one of Europe's top two leagues and lifted both the Europa League and the UEFA Super Cup in the calendar year. Zlatan should be just behind him, but Falcao has earned his place in FIFA's dream XI.
Oliver Wilson
2013-01-08T00:45:00Z
Didn't Mean To Upset You: Potential Banana Skin in the FA Cup Third Round
Oliver Wilson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Didnt-Mean-To-Upset-You:-Potential-Banana-Skin-in-the-FA-Cup-Third-Round/-154874138269897736.html
2013-01-05T00:39:00Z
2013-01-05T00:39:00Z
<p>The FA Cup has a certain magic about it that, whether the competition still seems important, always manages to garner the attention of football fans across the country, be it Lincoln City or Manchester City.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The main draw, of course, is the potential of the cup upset. When little meets large it’s generally the case that the might of footballs elite clubs is enough to topple the plucky upstarts.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>But sometimes, like when David met Goliath, Liverpool met Barnsley in 2008, Shrewsbury met Everton in 2003 or Barnsley met Chelsea in 2008, little can trump large.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>So here are the four upsets that could take place this weekend.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>1) Brighton</strong> v Newcastle</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Brighton, lead by Gus Poyet are just one win away from the playoff spots in the Championship and have lost just once and in their last five games. Newcastle have won just once in their last 6 games and have had five losses around that. Conceding seven goals against Arsenal was a shock, losing Demba Ba in midweek could be unsettling in their forward line.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Alan Pardew’s side are in a dire slump and Brighton could be another step to fall down as their season continues to tumble away.</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>2) Luton </strong>v Wolves</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Luton Town are back in the playoff spots in the Blue Square Bet Conference and, despite a run of indifferent form, all things are pretty sunny in the south.</p>
<p><br /> Wolves on the other hand are a side lost. After crashing out of the Premier League last season and finding life under new manager Stale Solbakken to be a bit of a nightmare. Languishing in 18<sup>th</sup> place in the Championship, and with seven losses in their last ten games, the Solbakken plan is not paying off in the Midlands. They struggle to score and fail to keep clean sheets and a trip down to the plucky Hatters is the last thing they need. Keep an eye out for a non-league scalping.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>3) </strong>Aston Villa v <strong>Ipswich</strong></p>
<p><strong> </strong></p>
<p>This one’s pretty obvious. Villa, despite their draw at Swansea, are still a side reeling from a most miserable of Christmases while Ipswich are a side on the upturn. Mick McCarthy’s arrival at the Tractor Boys has flipped the script on a season that saw them sat with just seven points from their first 12 games of the season.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Five wins in eight for the Championship side compared to 17 goals conceded over Christmas for the Premier League side sees the form table stacked in McCarthy’s favour, while the Ipswich manager will have the extra incentive of proving all the people who said he’s not good enough to manage a Premier League club wrong.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>4) Swansea</strong> v Arsenal</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Their win on the first of December at the Emirates was definitely considered a low point for Arsene Wenger’s side this season, but many will not think that a Swansea win, at home, will be too much of a shock. <br /> <br /> Arsenal, unlike their Welsh opponents, will be gunning [no pun intended] for this item of silverware, especially after crashing out of the League Cup quarter final against Bradford City.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Wenger’s trophy cabinet is looking too bare for its own good, while Swansea are a side who are more concerned about Premier League survival then by cup competitions.</p>
<p> <img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/MichuSwansea.jpg" alt="Michu scoring big for Swansea" width="436" height="231" /></p>
<p>The Gunners will want this, they need it. Swansea could upset the odds and leave Arsene staring at another trophyless season. The Champions League or bust?</p>
Oliver Wilson
2013-01-05T00:39:00Z
Redknapp Winning the Hearts and Minds in fight against relegation.
Oliver Wilson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Redknapp-Winning-the-Hearts-and-Minds-in-fight-against-relegation./-738812479704021528.html
2013-01-03T00:40:00Z
2013-01-03T00:40:00Z
<p>The man who took a struggling Tottenham Hotspur to the Champions League knock-out rounds has undertaken, argueably, his toughest job to date and he’s hoping that a stellar win against Chelsea on Wednesday night will have convince the rest of the Premier League, and his own side, that Rangers can stay afloat in the England’s top flight.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Redknapp’s side was played off the park by Brendan Rodger’s Liverpool last Sunday at Loftus Road and his dejected side were a mess after the brutal defeat. But Harry worked his man management magic to galvanize his squad for Wednesday night’s encounter against their local rivals.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>His inspiration? </p>
<p> </p>
<p>Redknapp truly believes his side can stay up.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>“I convinced them [after the Liverpool game] that we can stay up. I think when I said that on Sunday you thought I was mad, but I genuinely did. I genuinely believe. I didn’t go home and think, ‘we’re doomed here, what have I done’, I just felt that we can turn it around.”</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Communication, according to the Rangers gaffer, was the reason why his side capitulated against The Reds last weekend, and the same mistakes were not going to be made in the lead up to their midweek encounter.</p>
<p><br /> “The message didn’t quite get through about how we wanted to play against Liverpool and I felt we were all over the place, some were pressing up high, some were dropping.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>“We started the game like we didn’t know what was going on.”</p>
<p> </p>
<p>“I spent a couple of hours [on Tuesday] going through things absolutely. I did shadowing yesterday, got everybody doing it so everybody knew exactly where they were.”</p>
<p> </p>
<p>But the win in midweek will not only build the character and belief of his side, but will also send a ripple to those teams around him and potential transfer targets this January.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>“When those other teams are sitting down tonight, even the teams with 20 points, they’ll sit down tonight and say ‘oh god, that isn’t very good tonight’. I’ve been there. That sends a few shocks through everybody. We’ve got to make the most of that tonight.”</p>
<p> </p>
<p>But still bringing players to Loftus Road, with Rangers in their current predicament, will be difficult this winter, and the club has already missed out on their first signing of the New Year because, in part, players wont believe in their cause.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>“I lost a players today who I tried to sign who would have been my first signing and he probably looked at it and thought ‘you know Harry, I love you but I don’t think you’re going to stay up,’ so he’s gone to the Hammers. I was going to take Joe [Cole]. I like Joe, I think he’d have been good for me, good around the place, a great attitude so it’s not easy when you’re stuck down there.”</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The three points and the big scalp, however, will have still sent a message to the League. If anyone can pull of this great escape with a side who have, until Wednesday night, failed to look like a team and more a mismatch of half footballers thrown together but two different regimes of anarchic management, Harry can.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The hearts and minds game is being won. Now the battle on the pitch can commence.</p>
<p> </p>
<iframe src="http://gu-embedded-video.appspot.com/?a=false&u=/football/video/2013/jan/02/rafael-benitez-chelsea-qpr-derby-video" style="border: 0; overflow: hidden;" height="397px" scrolling="no" width="460px"></iframe>
Oliver Wilson
2013-01-03T00:40:00Z
The Nike+ Fuelband inspires you to do more, simply.
Rafa Gonzales
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/The-Nike+-Fuelband-inspires-you-to-do-more,-simply./721054745183731551.html
2013-01-02T21:00:00Z
2013-01-02T21:00:00Z
You may have heard me bring it up in the show on Wednesday, but I recently received the Nike+ Fuelband from my wife as a surprise Xmas gift over the holidays. I had mentioned the band about a month before and told her I thought it was a pretty cool idea.<br /><br />She remembered.<br /><br />Every since having it, I've been putting it to work, working on myself! I said I wanted to get back into shape and get more active, and the Nike+ Fuelband is doing just that.<br /><br />Look for a more complete testing and review sometime next week. <br /><br />Until then, check out this video from Nike to learn more about this Fuelband and how it help to motivate and inspire a person to do more.<br /><br /><br /><iframe src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/dG0vLFFtZDs" frameborder="0" height="315" width="560"></iframe>
Rafa Gonzales
2013-01-02T21:00:00Z
Testing Out the Mitre Tensile SPL Match Ball
Rafa Gonzales
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Testing-Out-the-Mitre-Tensile-SPL-Match-Ball/-636416547290161746.html
2012-12-18T00:18:00Z
2012-12-18T00:18:00Z
<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;">I'm a Rangers supporter. We all know this. So it may come as no surprise that I am well aware of the fact that Mitre have been the Scottish Premier League Official Match Ball for a couple years now.</span>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;">You may also know that one of the perks to my job is I get to rub elbows with some really cool people and companies. Every now and then, I work out a deal where I get to test out gear for free. Really. Let's not beat around the bush here.</span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;">Recently I was in contact with Mitre in the UK about testing out some of Scotland's Premier League Match Balls, the Tensile, and sure enough, they sent a pair out to me. One to test and talk about from a first person's perspective on the show (score). The other to give away how I wanted on the show. (See under the SPL Mitre Match Ball Holiday Footy Jingle Competition for more details)</span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;">The following is my review of the product I received and proceeded to test out: the Mitre Tensile SPL Match Ball.</span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;">When opening the package, it did impress me some that Mitre essentially have their own spit to put on the needle to pump up their balls. I unfortunately did not have this included in my package, so I simply used my own saliva to moisten the needle before pumping.</span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;">Great.<img style="float: right; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/MitreTensile3.jpg" alt="" width="349" height="184" /></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;">First thing you notice when you have a fully pumped Mitre Tensile ball is the the paneling. It's different. It's like something you'd see from a futuristic footy video game or something Puma would half attempt at. It really is a shock to me still how the ball is so round given the specific panels and their placement. You also look at these things thinking it has surely got to affect the flight of the ball and how it cuts the air. The 10-panel design concept is exclusive to Mitre and is handstitched to create improved player control and response, ultimately creating more excitement on the field and even on the television screens for the viewer.</span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;">For me, the panelling was a distraction at first. It really took my mind off of actually kicking the ball. Once I conquered this though, I really found the ball to roll perfectly fine and true. I do however think the panelling probably helps the player out by generally straightening the flight of the ball out because of the locations and layout of the panels. </span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;">Another thing Mitre tries to pimp out about this ball is the material with which it is made. The specific name of the material is called the “Clarino micro fibre material” which is supposed to also have a nice aerodynamic surface... what ever that means. </span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;">As a player, you only understand that the material is generally soft and sticky, without really affecting the roll or flight, but positively affecting the touch and control of the ball.</span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;">I also tended to compare it to the material, touch and control of the Nike Maxim ball. Although a slight difference, and perhaps a slightly more positive slant towards the official ball of the English Premier League, I don't think it was really that noticeable and definitely not worth it (at least if you're a baller on a budget).</span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;">I brought both my Nike Maxim and my new Mitre Tensile ball to my Monday night practice and pick up games, as well as my full field saturday pick up game, and 9 times out of 10, we were kicking around the Mitre ball. </span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><img style="float: left; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/MitreTensileBlog2.jpg" alt="" width="359" height="197" />Mitre have this campaign around the Tensile, saying that it is “the Player's Ball”, and in many ways, I'd have to agree with them. The Tensile is an extremely fun ball to kick around and it really does reflect the fact that it is a high level, competition match ball. Say what you want about Scotland and the Scottish Premier League. Mitre came through and delivered a well crafted, sturdy, fun ball to play with. When you compare the price point at which these balls are sold for in comparison to you Official Match balls from Sporting giants like Adidas and Nike, you'd be silly not to give this ball a go.</span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;">Thanks again to Mitre for giving us a ball to test and a ball to give away.</span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;">Check out this dude who also got a Mitre Tensile to test out.</span></p>
<br /><br /> <iframe src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/PaP-NbbpW8o" frameborder="0" height="315" width="560"></iframe>
Rafa Gonzales
2012-12-18T00:18:00Z
WFD Spreads the Holiday Cheer in this Month's Giveaway of an Official SPL Celtic Match Ball from Mitre
Rafa Gonzales
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/WFD-Spreads-the-Holiday-Cheer-in-this-Months-Giveaway-of-an-Official-SPL-Celtic-Match-Ball-from-Mitre/-293185764068218550.html
2012-12-12T21:56:00Z
2012-12-12T21:56:00Z
Last month we gave away a pair of Nike boots. The month before that, we gave away a pair of Adidas boots. Both were competition ready boots, and yet, we still received complaints...<br /><br />Okay, so it wasn't like people were hating, but it was brought up that we were leave all sorts of sizes out of this kind of competition and that it was a bit unfair, if not biased.<br /><br />So we took that into consideration and decided to come up with a prize that you all could enjoy. What's that? A football of course.<br /><br />This month, we are giving away and official Scottish Premier League match ball, the Mitre Tensile match ball in Celtic home colors. <br /><br />
<p>The official match ball of the Scottish Premier League, the Tensile's exclusive 10 Panel concept hand stitched professional ball is designed for improved player control and response to create excitement on field and on screen. <img style="float: right; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/mitretensileceltic.jpg" alt="" /></p>
<p>The exclusive Mitre 10 panel design has been matched with our advanced Clarino micro fiber material with its aerodynamic surface . The surface ensures almost equal grip in all weather conditions giving the player increased control. The unique panel configuration with reduced seams delivers powerful and accurate straight or curved shots with equal precision.</p>
How do you get this ball from us for free? I'm glad you asked.<br /><br />All we are asking is for you to send in your Holiday Football Jingles. Yes, that's right. Send in your holiday songs with a clever little football twist. Whether you make a mockery of your most hated player, or you sing praise of your club in a festive holiday song, we want to hear it. <br /><br />The best and most favored way to enter is to call our message line at 1(310)909-8483 and leave your song sung on the voicemail. <a href="http://worldfootballdaily.com/pg/jsp/charts/audioMaster.jsp?dispid=307&pid=18192">Click Here</a> to hear some examples.<br /><br />We have had some ask if they could send in their entries through an mp3 or youtube video, and yes... yes of course we will take it. <br /><br /><img style="vertical-align: top; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/SPLMitreAnnouncement.jpg" alt="" /><br />Should you not have access to these options, you could always email in to show@worldfootballdaily.com to submit your lyrics (with the song tune you are using) and if it's good enough, we'll drop you into the drawing, as well as sing you song on the show one day too!<br /><br />So why not spread the holiday spirit and enjoy the football this season. Join World Football Daily and sing your #WFDHolidayFootyJingle for your chance to win an official Scottish Premier League Match ball, the Mitre Tensile Celtic Home edition.<br /><img style="vertical-align: bottom; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/mitrepracticeball.jpg" alt="" /><br />
Rafa Gonzales
2012-12-12T21:56:00Z
Congrats to Greg Doyle, our November Nike Boot Giveaway Contest Winner!
Rafa Gonzales
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Congrats-to-Greg-Doyle,-our-November-Nike-Boot-Giveaway-Contest-Winner!/-787528661133284303.html
2012-12-03T19:46:00Z
2012-12-03T19:46:00Z
Last month, World Football Daily gave away a pair of Adidas F50 boots to member Gio Franco who now rocks the boots in his weekly kick abouts in Southern California. <br /><br />This months, we decided to give away a pair of brand new, in the box, Nike Mercurial Miracle II CR7 Edition boots. Yes, yes. The one Ronnie rocked last season.<br /><br />It must be something about light boots that World Football Daily must have something about.<br /><br />Congratulations to Premium Member Greg Doyle for winning a pair of brand new boots. You'll have to report back to us with how you fair in them. Sure it will up your game ten-fold.<br /><br /><img style="float: right; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/NikeMercurialMiracleII.jpg" alt="" width="290" height="200" /><br /><br />For all those who are jealous and want to see what you missed out on, check out the video below where they test of the same boots that Greg will be receiving this holiday season just for being a part of one of the best football communities out there.<br /><br /><br /><iframe src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/9MBcUTYKWiE" frameborder="0" height="315" width="560"></iframe>
Rafa Gonzales
2012-12-03T19:46:00Z
Dimitar Berbatov plays the game like a kid with a PS3 Controller
Oliver Wilson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Dimitar-Berbatov-plays-the-game-like-a-kid-with-a-PS3-Controller/-871726849732168938.html
2012-11-29T01:06:00Z
2012-11-29T01:06:00Z
<div>
<p>Dimitar Berbatov showed his class on Wednesday night during Fulham’s 0-0 draw away at Stamford Bridge and once again underlined his quality as one of the Premier League’s most underrated players.</p>
<p>His manager, Martin Jol, described the Bulgarian as, “almost unplayable,” after a night that saw the former Manchester United and Tottenham striker playing on his own in Fulham’s final third as he teased Chelsea’s defenders while waiting for his teammates follow up in support.</p>
<p>During their few ventures towards the Chelsea penalty area, Berbatov looked tall and strong, controlling the play, both on and off the ball, pointing out passes for teammates as if he were controlling them in a video game and patiently building up Fulham’s attack.</p>
<p>“I think Berbatov, who was almost unplayable, linked in other players who could support [him]” said the Fulham boss, after the game.</p>
<p>“Berbatov is fantastic and he was fantastic and the other players too worked ever so hard.”</p>
<p>A forgotten man at Manchester United, Dimitar was chastised for his slow, mathematically thought out play when he led the line for the Red Devils. His style, that had impressed all who watched him at Tottenham, failed to find the same chemistry in a United midfield that lived and breathed of fast flowing attacking football.</p>
<p>Despite this, his penultimate season at Old Trafford still saw him bag 20 goals in 37 appearances, making him the Premier League’s joint top goal scorer in 2010/11, alongside his former Manchester United teammate Carlos Tevez.</p>
<p>At Fulham, though, Dimitar is a player that Jol is building his attack around, rather then slotting him into a system he has to adjust too. His ability to hold the ball and find support, even with an avaerage supporting cast around him, baffles even the best defenders in the Premier League, while his graceful strikes, that rely more on pinpoint accuracy then raw power, are yet to fade from his long list of talents.</p>
<p>Wednesday night’s opposition would love to have a player of Berbatov’s ilk, especially for the minimal, but undisclosed, fee Fulham paid for him. Sat in front of Oscar, Juan Mata and Edin Hazard, Dimitar would have a trio of players ready to support him almost immediately, and, unlike Steve Sidwell, Hugo Rodallega and his Fulham teammates, the Chelsea midfield have the talent and ability to match that of the Fulham forward.</p>
<p>“He’s a great player,“ exclaimed Rafa Benitez when asked if a player of Berbatov’s nature might suit Chelsea better then one of Fernando Torres’ mold.</p>
<p>“They [United] paid £30 million for him in the past, he was not playing too many games for them but they paid big money. Now he’s a player who, in these sorts of games, can show his quality his level, so we knew he was a difficult player to play against.</p>
<p>“But, at the end of the day, they have this player, we don’t have this player. </p>
<p>“We have some good players who can play in a different style so you have to adapt to the players that you have and I am really pleased with these players.”</p>
<p>With Benitez avoiding a direct answer, what is clear from the Spanish manager, is that Chelsea do lack a player with the ability and talents of Berbatov, and it could be something they look for in the near future.</p>
</div>
Oliver Wilson
2012-11-29T01:06:00Z
Joey Barton Busts Out the French Accent in Press Conference
Rafa Gonzales
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Joey-Barton-Busts-Out-the-French-Accent-in-Press-Conference/346492624827230457.html
2012-11-28T21:43:00Z
2012-11-28T21:43:00Z
Ollie brought this story up on Tuesday's show and we most definitely had a right laugh on this one. In case you missed it, Joey Barton recently sat in front of the media for a Marseille Press Conference, and spoke in what must be a new French accent that this Englishman picked up in the few months he's been playing for his new club.<br /><br />The intelligence is just oozing out of this guy.<br /><br />Below is actual video footage of the press conference we are talking about.<br /><br /><br /><iframe src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/Z3U-r8T31Ns" frameborder="0" height="315" width="560"></iframe>
Rafa Gonzales
2012-11-28T21:43:00Z
Nike GS 2 Football Boot Delivers Seamless Ball Control & Low Environmental Impact
Rafa Gonzales
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Nike-GS-2-Football-Boot-Delivers-Seamless-Ball-Control--Low-Environmental-Impact/277777894121209170.html
2012-11-27T05:43:00Z
2012-11-27T05:43:00Z
Nike has unveiled the second generation of its Nike GS boot - Nike GS2 - that is the lightest, fastest production boot Nike has ever made and the most environmentally friendly boot available. Nike GS2 also features All Conditions Control (ACC) which delivers enhanced ball control in both dry and wetweather conditions. <br /><br />Nike GS2 will be worn by some of Europe's best young players including Theo Walcott, Eden Hazard, Raheem Sterling, Mario Goetze, Christian Eriksen and El Shaarawy. The new boot features a classic black and white upper that is contrasted with bold All Conditions Control (ACC) insignia with a safari print found on some of Nike's most iconic shoes.<br /> <img style="margin: 5px auto; display: block;" src="/images/blog/Bootspotting.jpg" alt="" /><br /><br />The Nike GS 2 boot is constructed using renewable and recycled materials, designed for explosive performance on the pitch and lower impact on the planet. Every component has been optimized to reduce weight and waste, creating Nike's lightest football boot ever at 160 grams (size 9). <br /><br />Conceived and engineered in Italy, the Nike GS 2 features recycled and renewable materials throughout the upper and plate design. A bio-based traction plate made primarily from castor beans ensures strength and flexibility on pitch, alongside a sock liner made from 100% castor beans. The boot laces, lining and tongue are made from a minimum of 70% recycled materials. The toeboard and collar, feature at least 15% recycled materials. <br /><br />The All Conditions Control (ACC) technology is created by a special treatment during the development of the upper materials to deliver a consistent feel on the ball at all times.<br /><br /><em>Nike GS 2 includes the following performance, recycled and renewable materials in the new boot:</em> <br /><br /><strong>Traction Plate & Stud Configuration: </strong><br /><br />Nike GS 2 traction plate combines a high performance chassis with a strong responsive and agile form. The sole plate is made of 50% renewable Pebax® Rnew (a plant derived material made with 97% castor beans) and 50% TPU, made from renewable materials. The plate is 15% lighter than a traditional plate composition. <br /><br />The traction plate includes a minimalist diamond-silhouette spine, which provides optimal flex and agility in plate performance. <br /><br />Anatomically positioned studs maximize speed in multiple directions to ensure responsive and assured movement on pitch. <img style="float: right; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/nikegs2boot.jpg" alt="" width="297" height="197" /><br /><br /><strong>Touch & Control: </strong><br /><br />A solvent-free Kanga-Lite synthetic upper provides zonal reinforcement for exceptional touch and control. The synthetic upper also supports lockdown on midfoot and arch area.<br /><br />A special treatment during the development of the Kanga-Lite delivers an optimal touch and feel of the ball in all conditions. <br /><br />The lightweight and chemical-free sock liner is made of 100% castor beans and eliminates any layers for a snug fit and enhanced touch on the ball. <br /><br /><strong>Stability & Support: </strong><br /><br />Anatomical and asymmetrical heel counter and heel bucket locks the foot down for stability and support. The counter is made of Pebax® Rnew, derivedfrom castor bean oil.<br /><br />
<p>Nike GS 2 will be available for purchase for $250.00 on December 1<sup>st.</sup></p>
Rafa Gonzales
2012-11-27T05:43:00Z
Best Goal Ever? Juice says hardly so.
Rafa Gonzales
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Best-Goal-Ever-Juice-says-hardly-so./-224211062850491410.html
2012-11-16T02:00:00Z
2012-11-16T02:00:00Z
If you ask me, I think it's too hard to call a goal best ever. In the history of the sport, there are numerous goals that stand out for the skill, talent and ability it took to accomplish it. There are several goals that stand out because of the occasion. <br /><br />The fourth goal of Zlatan's undoubtedly stands out for the sheer skill and touch it took to strike that ball, but the occasion brings down the goals just a bit. Listen to today's podcast and listen to Juice's argument why there are at least 5 goals that are easily better than Zlatan's fourth against England in Wednesday night's friendly.<br /><br />Below is a clip of the goal we are talking about.<br /><br />Let us know where that goal stand in your all-time favorites. Write show@worldfootballdaily.com and get in touch.<br /><br /><br /><iframe src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/az4mFb18DUE" frameborder="0" height="315" width="560"></iframe>
Rafa Gonzales
2012-11-16T02:00:00Z
Nike's CR7 collection reflects attitude and irreverence of a global icon
Rafa Gonzales
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Nikes-CR7-collection-reflects-attitude-and-irreverence-of-a-global-icon/-877286794192538949.html
2012-11-15T19:22:00Z
2012-11-15T19:22:00Z
<p>The new CR7 on- and off-pitch collection blends the uncompromising attitude of the world’s most iconic player with an irreverent, bold style that symbolizes <a href="http://nikeinc.com/cristiano-ronaldo">Cristiano Ronaldo</a>'s approach to life.</p>
<p>Unified by a striking graphic logo of a heart (symbolizing a love of winning) slashed by an X (representing a hatred of losing), "Love to win, hate to lose" is a philosophy that informs and appears on every piece of the collection.</p>
<p>This mantra also reflects a collection that reveals two distinct sides of CR7 – a relentless, focused footballer at the peak of his power, and a more irreverent, playful and spontaneous style icon with a love of music who lives life full-on.<img style="float: right; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Nike_Soccer_CR7_Lookbook_09_large.jpg" alt="" width="400" height="285" /></p>
<p>Performance-inspired pieces feature premium fabrics and rich detailing that incorporate a classic color palette of blue, black and grey with a thoroughly modern twist of blue and pink detailing on key performance items marking CR7’s individuality. </p>
<p>Cristiano’s signature <a href="http://nikeinc.com/cristiano-ronaldo/news/nike-cr-mercurial-vapor-viii-engineers-explosive-speed-striking-graphics">CR Mercurial Vapor VIII</a> boot is reworked in classic black and white. A pink plate fades upward from pink to blue, which is sure to stand out on pitch. </p>
<p>Additional training items — a short-sleeve top, Mercurial shin guards and CR Nike 5 Gato shoes, plus a backpack and Prestige ball — all feature this striking black, blue and pink fusion.</p>
<p><img style="float: left; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Nike_Cristiano_Ronaldo_Collection_Performance_large.jpg" alt="" width="293" height="390" />Bridging on and off-pitch, the blue, grey and black lifestyle collection elevates classic styles with modern tweaks and singular details that reflect Cristiano’s obsession with perfection. </p>
<p>The grey crew neck sweatshirt features suede elbow patches as well as a subtle embossed leather patch logo, while the clean, button-down Saturday Jacket (in off white and blue) boasts a similar logo, leather drawstrings, button closures and front pockets. The water-resistant fabric and zipper keep wet weather at bay.</p>
<p>The Track Jacket incorporates advanced front blocking, and each piece within the collection is precisely cut. The CR7 T-shirt confidently proclaims the “Love to win, hate to lose” attitude with a bold emblem, while the core t-shirt takes a more literal approach, writing out the mantra in ornate Portuguese calligraphy that speaks to Cristiano’s heritage. A Wardour Max 1 chukka boot takes a running classic and adds an urban twist with fresh colors inspired by the Mercurial Vapor VIII boot. </p>
<p>The CR Collection will be available at retail from November 15</p>
<br /><iframe src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/zD4dLAvBczc" frameborder="0" height="315" width="560"></iframe>
Rafa Gonzales
2012-11-15T19:22:00Z
adidas Unveil The Next Generation of Speed Boot - The adizero f50
Rafa Gonzales
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/adidas-Unveil-The-Next-Generation-of-Speed-Boot----The-adizero-f50/-917799953442826795.html
2012-11-09T17:49:00Z
2012-11-09T17:49:00Z
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<p style="margin-bottom: 0in; line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">adidas are excited to announce the next generation </span></span><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong>adizero f50® </strong></span></span><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">football boot, a boot which enables players to be faster than ever before.</span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in; line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">The new <strong>adizero f50®</strong> is all about precision engineering with every aspect of the boot design based around making the wearer as fast as possible on the football field. At only 165g, the <strong>adizero f50®</strong> is one of the lightest shoes on the market. They will be released in a new Vivid Yellow / Black / Green Zest color way allowing wearers to own the spotlight. Football fans will get an early preview of what the boots can do when the world's best player, <strong>Leo Messi</strong>, exclusively debuts them in the UEFA Champions League<sup>TM</sup> against Celtic on 7<sup>th </sup>November.</span></span></p>
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<p style="margin-bottom: 0in; line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">The new <strong>adizero f50®</strong> combines revolutionary technologies with cutting edge engineering in order to create the latest incarnation of the hugely successful silo series. <strong>Sprintskin</strong> is a 1.5mm thick synthetic layer that allows the boot to be lightweight whilst maintaining a natural feeling between boot and ball. <strong>Sprintweb</strong> is the 3D printed texture on the surface of the boot that allows for exceptional ball control at speed and also provides the supple but stable construction. The final layer of boot construction is the <strong>Sprintframe</strong>, a strong but lightweight lower section that offers players a perfectly balanced boot.<img style="float: right; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Adidas_Messi_F50_0560.jpg" alt="" width="352" height="263" /></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in; line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">The next-generation technologies are designed to enable players to ‘Find Fast’, and performance metrics can be tracked, analysed and compared against the best players in the world or with your friends via social media networks using the ground breaking <strong>adidas miCoach®</strong> capability. The specially designed cavity within the new <strong>adizero f50®</strong> houses the <strong>miCoach Speedcell® </strong>which records statistical data such as top speed, distance covered, and active zones. Once the data is captured, it can be wirelessly synced up to an iPhone/iPod or PC/Mac allowing players to analyse their performance, get tips and advice on how to improve, and compare themselves to others. <br /></span></span></p>
<br /><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">From mid-November onwards some of the most exciting professional players in the world, including <strong>Dani Alves, Karim Benzema, David Silva </strong>and <strong>David Villa</strong> will dominate the game in the boots. <span lang="en-US">The new </span><span lang="en-US"><strong>adizero f50®</strong></span><span lang="en-US"> boots will be available at adidas own-retail outlets as well as specialist stores worldwide from December 2012 in Vivid Yellow / Black / Green Zest. In addition, footballers can download an exclusive mobile app that will unlock unique adidas content, insight into the new boot, and chances to get closer to the brand and its ambassadors. For further information please visit </span><span lang="en-US"><strong>adidas.com/football</strong></span><span lang="en-US"> or go to </span><span lang="en-US"><strong>facebook.com/adidasfootball </strong></span><span lang="en-US">or </span><span lang="en-US"><strong>@adidasfootball</strong></span><span lang="en-US"> on twitter to join the conversation.<br /></span></span></span>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in; line-height: 150%;"><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/BDMiAdidasadidazerof50.jpg" alt="" width="575" height="383" /></p>
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Rafa Gonzales
2012-11-09T17:49:00Z
The Night Celtic Beat the Best Team in the World
Sandy Thin
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/The-Night-Celtic-Beat-the-Best-Team-in-the-World/-395856820512882986.html
2012-11-08T18:16:00Z
2012-11-08T18:16:00Z
<p>How do you go from losing 2-0 to Kilmarnock and drawing 2-2 with Dundee Utd to beating arguably the best team the world has ever seen in just three days? For the last 24 hours this question has been going in circles round my head. It was hard to believe my eyes when, a fortnight ago, I witnessed my beloved Celtic go ahead at the Nou Camp only to suffer the last-minute heartbreak of David Villa’s injury-time winner. This had been our chance. And in all seriousness, I wasn’t upset that we had blown it. The two goals Celtic had conceded were unpreventable. Indeed, you have to go back to April of this year to find the last time Barca went through a whole 90 minutes without scoring. And yet… And yet.</p>
<p>And yet as the famous Champions League theme blared out of the speakers at Parkhead I found myself hoping, willing the impossible to happen. As Victor Wanyama rose above Jordi Alba to put away the first goal I still found myself thinking, ‘No, surely not. Not against <em>this</em> Barcelona team.’ Even as Tony Watts doubled the lead with just 9 minutes to go my thoughts were along the lines of, ‘That’s 9 minutes too many.’ And as Lionel Messi paved the way for the most intense two minutes of my football-fandom it seemed as if Barca were already ahead, and Celtic out of the Champions League. And yet… And yet, just days after the 125<sup>th</sup> birthday of the club, the final whistle blew to secure what is almost certainly the second biggest win of the club’s history.</p>
<p>As a fan, it was impossible to believe it until that moment. It is always important, in football, to know your team’s place in perspective. And for some time now, Celtic have not been within the upper-echelons of the world’s teams, having not had a truly ‘world-class’ player since Henrik Larsson left in 2004. Scottish football has had to accept its place among the likes of the Austrian and Belgian leagues rather than so much the Portuguese and Dutch with which it once dwelt. However, there are times in football where destiny (and this is not a word I apply often) just seems to be on your team’s side, and Wednesday was one of those nights.</p>
<p>From the first minute Celtic were on the back foot, Messi almost scoring within a matter of seconds. And from then on it is impossible to argue that Celtic were doing anything other than ‘parking the bus’ but sometimes that is all a team can do. Chelsea were highly criticised in last season’s semi-finals for employing the same tactic, but when playing a team like Barca, it seems like often the choice is between parking the bus or losing. You simply cannot play Barca at their own game and come out on top, and this is something team after team after team have been steadily realising in La Liga for the past three or four seasons. It seems nonsensical to criticise a team for simply doing everything in their power not to lose. And in terms of defensive play Celtic must be given the credit they deserve. Man of the Match, Fraser Forster, had one of the best goalkeeping displays of any keeper this season so far, a fingertip save to a Messi shot destined for the top corner being a highlight. But mention must also be given to Kelvin Wilson and Efe Ambrose in the central defence who at many times had to simply resort to last ditch clearances to the halfway line so they could have just a few seconds rest off the ball.</p>
<p>After the match Neil Lennon summed up the gulf in class between the two sides well when he said, “Tito Vilanova can bring on David Villa and Cesc Fabregas and I bring on an 18-year-old kid who cost £50,000 from Airdrie." But of those three players, only one of them got on the score sheet last night. Just ten minutes into his Champions League debut and Tony Watt scored his first European goal, and sixth of the season for Celtic. Ultimately, Messi’s ninetieth minute tap-in meant little more than a few degrees more tension for the closing minutes, which only really added to the ecstasy when the final whistle eventually came.</p>
<p>Celtic now sit second in the group with seven points, with a trip to Lisbon and a home game against Spartak Moscow remaining. Realistically, Celtic will only need three points from these final two games in order to progress to the Last 16 for the first time since 2008 (where they were knocked out by Barcelona, incidentally). The emotion of the night was in evidence on the face of each of the players, on the face of the manager and of every single fan inside Celtic Park that night, perhaps most notably Rod Stewart who was visibly crying. Whether they progress or not, the night of the 7<sup>th</sup> November, 2012 will go down in the history books. The night Celtic achieved the impossible. The night Celtic beat the best team in the world.</p>
Sandy Thin
2012-11-08T18:16:00Z
Sterling named in England squad
Thomas Rooney
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Sterling-named-in-England-squad/-73561743062291867.html
2012-09-21T15:45:00Z
2012-09-21T15:45:00Z
<p><span>Liverpool winger Raheem Sterling has been called into Roy Hodgson’s England squad to face Ukraine on Tuesday evening in a World Cup qualifier. </span></p>
<p><span>Those looking at <a href="http://football.betvictor.com/category/premier-league/liverpool" target="_blank"><strong>Liverpool news</strong></a> note how Sterling is just 17-years-old but has made a big impression in the opening three games of the Premier League for the Reds and now could feature for his country and become one of the youngest ever capped players. </span></p>
<p><span>Tottenham’s Jake Livermore and Southampton’s Adam Llanna have also been called up by Hodgson as Theo Walcott has returned to Arsenal with an injury and Daniel Sturridge is a doubt for the game with stomach cramps. </span></p>
<p><span>Both John Terry and Ashley Cole will also miss the encounter against Ukraine through injury and one of Phil Jagielka or Gary Cahill will come in play alongside Joleon Lescott on Tuesday. </span></p>
<p><span>It seems that the England boss is keen to give young players chance to be involved in the national side, he said: "It was a good opportunity to invite some young players to come in and be part of the atmosphere.”</span></p>
<p><span>The Three Lions captain Steven Gerrard, who is of course a teammate of Sterling’s, has backed the decision to include him in the squad.</span></p>
<p><span>“I think he deserves this call-up. The impact he's made has been sensational. He's been one of our shining lights. The important thing is he keeps his feet on the ground. I think it won't be long before he's in the set-up for real." Gerrard said. </span></p>
<p><span>Anyone studying <a href="http://football.betvictor.com/" target="_blank"><strong>Premier League news</strong></a> will note how both Sterling and Lallana are uncapped at international level, but Livermore made his first England appearance when he came on as a substitute against Italy in the 2-1 friednly victory last month. </span></p>
<p><span>After the 5-0 drubbing of Moldova on Friday evening, confidence is sure to be sky high in the England camp and it is likely that Hodgson will name the same side that started that match, which the exception of whoever replaces the injured John Terry. </span></p>
<p><span>The three players drafted in to the squad could make appearances, however it is more likely that they will just be given the experience of being in the squad and seeing how the England team works. </span></p>
<p> </p>
Thomas Rooney
2012-09-21T15:45:00Z
Kompany happy with City form
Thomas Rooney
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Kompany-happy-with-City-form/-711627227441128452.html
2012-09-21T15:21:00Z
2012-09-21T15:21:00Z
<p><span>Manchester City captain Vincent Kompany says that he is happy with the teams start to the season after two wins and a draw sees them in fourth place in the league.</span></p>
<p><span> </span><span>The Citizens of course find themselves as the favourites for the title for the first time in many years and now need to cope with what is expected of them. </span></p>
<p><span>Kompany, who is currently on international duty with Belgium said: "We have seven points out of nine and have won the Community Shield against </span><span><a title="Mouse over ^ icon to search." href="http://topics.skysports.com/chelsea/?section=football" target="_blank"><span style="color: #000000;"><span>Chelsea</span></span></a></span><span> so things haven't started too badly.</span></p>
<p><span>"Everything was flying in this time last season so we were effectively winning games earlier and making things easier for ourselves.</span></p>
<p><span>"I think this season will be a lot more competitive than last year - just look at the talent that has come into the Premier League during the summer. I don't think any sides around us are weaker - they have all strengthened so getting victories at this stage of the season is the most important thing."</span></p>
<p><span>If City are to defend their title, then make no doubt about it – Kompany will need to be as dominant and demanding at the back as he was in the last campaign. </span></p>
<p><span>He is what makes them tick and is a natural leader, and most importantly – a very good central defender. </span></p>
<p><span>The Belgian international has formed a good partnership with Joleon Lescott at the back and the two of them need to stay fit and be part of the spine of the team along with Joe Hart, Yaya Toure and Carlos Tevez (while Sergio Aguero is injured).</span></p>
<p><span>If that happens, then it is difficult to look beyond Roberto Mancini’s men lifting the Premier League title for a second year in a row. </span></p>
<p><span>They must keep the Ethiad Stadium as a fortress and continue to pick up points on the road. City also did the double over rivals Manchester United last season, which played a huge part in delivering the silverware. </span></p>
<p><span>Anyone looking at placing a <strong><a href="http://www.football-data.co.uk/" target="_blank">free bets</a> </strong>in the next couple of weeks will see that Kompany will lead the side out at the Britannia Stadium on Saturday before a trip to Real Madrid in the Champions League and then a home match against Arsenal. After those three matches, we will really see how City are looking this season. </span></p>
Thomas Rooney
2012-09-21T15:21:00Z
Adidas Presents Three New Official Math Balls Reveals for the new 2012/2013 Season
Rafa Gonzales
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Adidas-Presents-Three-New-Official-Math-Balls-Reveals-for-the-new-2012/2013-Season/-600283229672929126.html
2012-08-31T22:59:00Z
2012-08-31T22:59:00Z
<p><strong><em>The Finale 12 – The Official Match Ball for the 2012/2013 UEFA Champions League season</em></strong></p>
<p><em>The adidas UEFA Champions League Finale 12 Official Match Ball will be used in all group stage matches of the 2012/2013 competition, and the new design features an outer coating texture designed to provide optimal grip at the point of impact.</em></p>
<p><em>The artwork within the iconic star panel construction uses bold colours (white/lab lime/dark violet) and is designed to reflect a tactics board of precise on-field movements in addition to the geographical locations throughout Europe linked together as a result of the competition.</em></p>
<p><em>The top and bottom thermal bonded stars on the match ball, based on the design of the UEFA Champions League logo, contain co-ordinates of Nyon, Switzerland, and Herzogenaurach, Germany, the homes of UEFA and Official Match Ball supplier adidas respectively.</em></p>
<p> </p>
<p><em><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Champs League on white.jpg" alt="" width="434" height="266" /></em></p>
<p><em>This season adidas will launch a campaign for fans to engage through the UEFA Champions League and ask themselves the question: “Are you UEFA Champions League level?” For the first time ever this season, all three adidas boot silos (Predator, adiPure and f50) are miCoach enabled, allowing players to track and analyse statistical data from their matches and share on Facebook.</em></p>
<p><em>The season-long activation centres around the three adidas boot silos and miCoach technology and is endorsed by Real Madrid CF manager José Mourinho and prominent adidas players Leo Messi, Xavi (both FC Barcelona) and Bastian Schweinsteiger (FC Bayern Munich).</em></p>
<p><em>A key piece of the “Are you UEFA Champions League level?” campaign is a miCoach training plan developed to allow fans to test themselves against the very best during various stages of the competition from pre-season, through the group stages, all the way to the final. Fans can access the training programmes online on <a href="http://www.micoach.com/uclgroup">www.micoach.com/uclgroup</a> and via specialist activations in adidas stores and on <a href="http://www.facebook.com/adidasfootball">www.facebook.com/adidasfootball</a> and @adidasfootball on Twitter.</em></p>
<p> </p>
<p><em><strong>The Official Match Ball for the UEFA Europa League</strong></em></p>
<p><em>The new-look Official Match Ball for the 2012/2013 season of the UEFA Europa League will see the introduction of key ball technology first used for UEFA EURO 2012™ in the development of the highly successful Tango 12.</em></p>
<p><em>The distinctive design incorporates the now iconic UEFA Europa League colours (red/yellow) and also features a stylised interpretation of the UEFA Europa League Trophy within the panel designs.</em></p>
<p><em><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Europa on white.jpg" alt="" width="505" height="335" /></em></p>
<p> </p>
<p><em><strong>The Official Match Ball for the UEFA Super Cup</strong></em></p>
<p><em>Tomorrow, UEFA Champions League winner Chelsea FC play Club Atlético de Madrid, winner of the 2011/12 UEFA Europa League, in the UEFA Super Cup 2012 taking place in Monaco. The ball features technology taken from the Tango 12 and also builds in design features such as the competition logo and integrated blue and red colours of the two finalists.</em></p>
<p> </p>
<p><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Super cup on White.jpg" alt="" width="506" height="329" /></p>
<p> </p>
<p>*All above information comes directly from Adidas.</p>
Rafa Gonzales
2012-08-31T22:59:00Z
Celtic Progress to the Champions' League Proper
Sandy Thin
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Celtic-Progress-to-the-Champions-League-Proper/147333650147066562.html
2012-08-30T18:57:00Z
2012-08-30T18:57:00Z
<p>Over what has been the most historically significant summer of all time for Scottish football, one half of Glasgow has remained somewhat out of the media spotlight. With all the goings-on in the blue side of Scotland’s biggest city, Celtic have been almost ignored throughout the summer other than in link to the Rangers’ stories in which they may have occasionally gained a passing mention. “Without the competition from Rangers, Celtic will have no hope of maintaining a good side”, “All money leaving Scottish football”, “Mass exodus of players from SPL” many papers have screamed out, with very few offering contrasting opinions. However, on Wednesday 29<sup>th</sup> August, Celtic qualified for the Champions’ League Group Stages for the first time in 4 years, and in doing so sparked a beacon of hope for the future of Scottish football.</p>
<p>Despite making no significant signings, the ‘Bhoys’ have had what can certainly be seen as a successful transfer window, losing only one major player in Ki-Sung Yeung and for a healthy fee of £6 million. This meant that Neil Lennon started the season with a squad virtually unchanged from last seasons’ champions but with a year’s more experience under their belts. Over the opening few matches one young player in particular has stood out: Tony Watt. The 18-year old Scot has proved early on that he is more than willing to challenge for a place in the first team and his 4 goals from 5 league appearances (3 of which came as a sub) would suggest that he has every right to that place. Reports in this morning’s <em>Scotsman</em> of a potential move for Italian legend Alessandro Del Piero may excite Celtic fans but with such a promising young star in the dressing room already I would question whether the 37 year-old would be able to bring much to Celtic Park other than his wealth of experience.</p>
<p>Over the two legs against Swedish champions, Helsingborg, the young Celtic side showed determination in their attempts to overcome their opponents and ultimately did so decisively with a 4-0 aggregate win. Unfortunately, it will take more than pure determination to come over their next obstacle: Barcelona. In Group C, the Glasgow club will face the current world club champions, alongside Benfica and Spartak Moscow. The journey to Russia will introduce another dramatic element to Celtic’s European experience as they will face former player Aiden McGeady, who left the club in 2010 for a record fee of almost £10 million.</p>
<p>The chances of progressing any further in the competition are relatively slim given the quality of opposition, but Celtic are certainly in with a chance of finishing in third place in the group, which would see them drop into the Europa League knockout stages. However, regardless of how the team perform, they are being given an opportunity a young player at any club around the world would die for. To play on the same pitch as the likes of Messi, Iniesta and Xavi will be an invaluable experience for the young Celts and one that they should treasure no matter the outcome.</p>
<p>The experience for Celtic players and fans alike will surely be made all the sweeter by the fact that, while they are rubbing shoulders with the best in the world, their greatest rivals are struggling to pick up draws against the likes of Berwick Rangers in the depths of the fourth tier of Scottish football.</p>
Sandy Thin
2012-08-30T18:57:00Z
The Chosen 16 of Nike's The Chance Football Competition
Rafa Gonzales
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/The-Chosen-16-of-Nikes-The-Chance-Football-Competition/653886799977943323.html
2012-08-27T03:27:00Z
2012-08-27T03:27:00Z
<p>From over 100,000 players from 55 countries, to 100 who experienced an intensive week in Barcelona. Now Nike Academy director Jimmy Gilligan and his elite coaching team have chosen the Final 16 players of The Chance 2012.</p>
<p>The group of yound footballers was cut to just 26 on the final day of competition which saw the players step out at FC Barcelona's Mini Estadi - in a semi-final game refereed by celebrated English match official Howard Webb- as the coaches made their final decision on the selection of the best 16.</p>
The Final 16 will now experience the ultimate training tour, visiting some of the best federations, clubs and facilities in the world - with one Nike Academy contract at stake.
<p>They will train at and play against some of the most renowned youth set-ups in global football, including Manchester United, Juventus and the US Soccer Federation. Under the watchful eye of club coaches and elite scouts, they have the chance to get noticed and potentially win a professional contract.</p>
<p>The Final 100 gathered in Barcelona for one week to train and play in the shadows of Camp Nou at FC Barcelona’s training centre – all with one aim, to make the Final 16.</p>
<p>The group of young footballers was cut to just 26 on the final day of competition which saw the players step out at FC Barcelona’s <em>Mini Estadi </em>– in a semi-final game refereed by celebrated English match official Howard Webb - as the coaches made their final decision on the selection of the best 16.<img style="float: right; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/TheChance_Referee_Howard_Webb_(1)_large.JPG" alt="" width="222" height="334" /></p>
<p>“To the winners, I say a massive well done,” said Jimmy Gilligan, Head of the Nike Academy. “Out of 100,000 footballers who entered The Chance they are the top 16 and I am looking forward to working with each of them. They should enjoy the moment but there is still a lot of work to be done. We will be taking them on an incredible trip to play some of the best youth teams in the world.”</p>
<p>For Gilligan today’s announcement was the conclusion to a memorable week. “The Chance programme is so authentic; everything is in place for the coaches, the scouts and the players to work to the best of their abilities.”</p>
<p>The winners were announced at a gala dinner with Laurent Blanc, ambassador of The Chance and former manager of the French Football Federation, as special guest. He commented: “These players have the talent to go forward and achieve their dreams. The Chance has given these youngsters a unique opportunity and we may well see them in the professional game.”</p>
<p>Brian Iloski from San Diego, CA was selected as one of the top 16 players globally from Nike's THE CHANCE Competition</p>
<p>One of the Final 16, Gonzalo Balbi of Spain said: “I can’t put into words what being here and being selected means to me. I have just tried to give everything I have to The Chance. I am so happy.”</p>
<p>The Final 16, on accepting their place on the global tour, will depart in January 2013. </p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Final 16 winners:</strong></p>
<p><strong> </strong></p>
<p>#32 Dimitris Komnos, Greece</p>
<p>#8 Wallace Camilo, Brazil</p>
<p>#27 David Fernandes, France</p>
<p>#83 Bubakary Sonko, Sweden</p>
<p>#77 Melusi Zulu, South Africa</p>
<p>#72 Petar Golubovic, Serbia</p>
<p>#79 Gonzalo Balbi, Spain</p>
<p><strong>#100 Brian Iloski, United States</strong></p>
<p>#92 Jose Figura, United Kingdon</p>
<p>#7 Dario Van Den Buijs, Belgium</p>
<p>#76 Teboho Charlie Tsotetsi, South Africa</p>
<p>#41 Ryosuke Kinoshita, Japan</p>
<p>#68 Kirill Laptev, Russia</p>
<p>#78 Saifeddine Alami Bazza, Spain</p>
<p>#6 Ismail H’Maidat, Belgium</p>
<p>#39 Marco Di Lauro, Italy</p>
<p> </p>
<p><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/The_Chance_Mini_Estadi_action_(8)_large.JPG" alt="" /></p>
Rafa Gonzales
2012-08-27T03:27:00Z
Calcioscommesse: 10 months for Conte Pepe and Bonucci get off
La Gazetta dello Sport
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Calcioscommesse:-10-months-for-Conte-Pepe-and-Bonucci-get-off/787692117038481722.html
2012-08-10T00:39:00Z
2012-08-10T00:39:00Z
According to this article from La Gazetta dello Sport, Antonio Conte faces a ten month ban to serve thanks to Calciopoli XIV. If Juve face having their manager gone for ten months, might they just part ways with Conte?<br /><br />Here is the article we referenced in today's show. Let us know what you think will be happening at Juve as the Serie A Season begins soon. Email show@worldfootballdaily.com with your thoughts.<br /><br />
<p class="p"><em><strong>Gazzetta dello Sport</strong> can reveal the verdicts to be given in the 'Calcioscommesse' trial relating to Antonio Conte, Leonardo Bonucci, Simone Pepe, Salvatore Masiello and Nicola Belmonte.</em></p>
<p class="p"><em><strong><span class="parag-title">masiello not credibile</span> —</strong> Thursday 9 August 2012 will be a big day for Juventus: they will lose their coach Conte for ten months (pending appeal), but will have Bonucci and Pepe available for Saturday's Super Cup. It appears that the attacks made by Bonucci and Pepe's lawyers and the weak case for the prosecution made by FIGC prosecutor Stefano Palazzi (interrupting the defences to propose plea-bargains) have convinced the Disciplinary Commission that there is insufficient evidence regarding the Udinese v Bari game to accept the prosecutor's sentence requests. Which basically means that Leonardo Bonucci, Simone Pepe, Salvatore Masiello and Nicola Belmonte will be acquitted. And yet they were potentially very heavy sentences: four years for Belmonte, three and a half for Bonucci and Salvatore Masiello, one year for Pepe, a €50,000 fine for Udinese.</em></p>
<p class="p"><em><strong><span class="parag-title">witnesses</span> —</strong> It all hangs on how credible the Disciplinary Commission believes the various witnesses are. The statements given by Filippo Carobbio and Carlo Gervasoni are considered to be very reliable (as the Disciplinary Commission and the FIGC's court of sports justice have already stated), while Andrea Masiello's statement is still “being examined”. His words weren't given much credit by the ordinary judiciary either, and he was arrested after giving statements in Cremona and Bari. The contradictions in his two hearings have been pointed out by Bonucci and Pepe's lawyers (and by Luciano Malagnini for Salvatore Masiello).</em></p>
<p class="p"><em><strong><span class="parag-title">Conte's position</span> — </strong> This is why the position of Juventus coach Antonio Conte – regarding his time at the helm of Siena – is different. In this case Carobbio's statements proved to be decisive. The FIGC prosecutor didn't feel the line adopted by the Bianconeri coach was credible, even though he eventually accepted the plea bargain of three months and a €200,000 fine put forward by Conte's defence. However, the Disciplinary Commission felt the ban was "incongruous". And this is where a series of errors began. Juventus only had to raise the bar a little immediately (to four months), perhaps a little higher (five months) after all the controversy. Instead it has turned into a conflict. Palazzi has donned his grand inquisitor vest once more and asked for 15 months; the Disciplinary Commission has – it appears – decided to adjust that to ten months. Starting from the request made by Palazzi himself (six months and it is unclear why that became one year), and aggravated by the continuation and Conte's role as coach. This is why Angelo Alessio may only get nine months.</em></p>
<p class="p"><em><strong><span class="parag-title">APPEALS</span> —</strong> Official confirmation will arrive on the morning of Thursday 9 August. The defences will then have five days (two for briefs, two for rejoinders, one for counter-deductions) to get ready. The FIGC court of sports justice (with Gerardo Mastrandrea as president) will examine the documentation and it will be back to court on Monday 20 August for the appeals. The dispositions should be made around the 23rd. The grounds will come later (15-20 days), although all parties will be able to appeal to CONI's TNAS (court of arbitration).</em></p>
<p class="p"><em><strong><span class="parag-title">bianconeri in beijing</span> —</strong> And then there's the Super Cup. Everything that is happening around, and especially within, Juventus is having somewhat of a damaging effect; in three days in Beijing the Bianconeri will play for their first trophy of the season, but the growing drumbeats regarding Conte's uncertain future, even including a possible resignation, are not helping. Does this risk exist? To decide will be president Agnelli who re-re-confirmed the coach who led Juventus to the title. His faith was expressed in no uncertain terms with a statement issued in the aftermath of the "blow" handed down by the Disciplinary Commission (plea bargaining refused). Yet it was not enough to calm the "market storm" on Conte. That's why, at the end of yet another day full of contradictions and after the club's new official denial of the abandonment of Conte's defence team, the directors have asked themselves, "And if this destabilisation is coming from within?" It would be like something of loose cannon aiming to undermine the credibility of the coach. Enough to trigger the alarm in the Juve house. Let's try to understand why.</em></p>
<p class="p"><em><strong><span class="parag-title">friction</span> —</strong> The betting story erupted in the Bianconeri house last spring. Conte vehemently claimed his innocence and the club supported him. Yet some material found its way to newspapers: "should a long ban be handed down then the coach will be gone." And the names of Prandelli and Capello were bandied about. The club took a low profile and the coach decided to add lawyer Antonio De Rensis the legal team. Everything was fine until the possibility arose of charges being filed; they spoke of wrongdoings and rumours of passing the buck quickly returned.</em></p>
<p class="p"><em><strong><span class="parag-title">final battle</span> —</strong> The absence of charges calmed the waters, but not the "rat", who arrived right on cue on the plea-bargaining, despite Conte being against it. Then, when the coach was satisfied, another leak came out to the newspapers. Too bad the reassurances about the successful outcome of the compromise turned out to be false. At that point the friction exploded into a very tense face-to-face at the Juve headquarters (with Agnelli present). Conte refused any further mediation and the club guaranteed him his job in any case. Back to the trial, but only De Rensis and Chiappero were present in the courtroom. The club's other attorney (Briamonte, also a member of the board) remained in Turin. The crack became an abyss when Conte decided to hire Bongiorno. More dirt came out, this time discussing the exit of some of Juve's lawyers from the coach's defence team. It seemed a distancing, almost the first step towards Conte's dismissal. Juve were forced into their umpteenth denial on their official website. But in addition to that, statements followed from Briamonte (reappearing for the occasion) to 'Sky Sport Italia': "No, no one is leaving. We'll weigh things after the verdict." All of this after Stellini's resignation (an aide to Count) that someone had revealed as a starter before the main course of coach's resignation, now overwhelmed by the new Bari investigation (although the prosecutors denied the existence of documents incriminating the coach). The "rat" raised his game: "Conte is leaving. He'll go after Beijing. The sentence will be the coup de grace." These are competent "sources", say the journalists to the club that is demanding an explanation. Sources within Juve, perhaps. Things stand to get even hotter in Turin in the <strong>coming days. And through no fault of Caligula.</strong></em></p>
<strong><em> <cite class="signature">Maurizio Galdi, Francesco Ceniti<br /><br /></cite></em><cite class="signature"><br /></cite></strong><em>http://english.gazzetta.it/Football/08-08-2012/calcioscommesse-10-months-for-conte-pepe-and-bonucci-get-off-912184109065.shtml</em><!-- @page { margin: 0.79in } P { margin-bottom: 0.08in } -->
La Gazetta dello Sport
2012-08-10T00:39:00Z
Nikes Pushes the Technological Envelope
Rafa Gonzales
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Nikes-Pushes-the-Technological-Envelope/-780857052817576448.html
2012-07-27T01:20:00Z
2012-07-27T01:20:00Z
<!-- @page { margin: 0.79in } P { margin-bottom: 0.08in } -->
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Getting to Portland-</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Portland is a gorgeous city. This is probably a very biased look at an incredibly green, lush landscape that is a stark contrast to the deserts that I grew up in. Flying in to Portland, you cant help but notice all the green. Of course, the Timbers had to be a shade of forrest green.</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Somewhere between getting off my plane and walking into the Hotel Lucia on SW Broadway, I lost my drivers license. Not the best way to start things off, but what can you do. It's part of the deal when you're a space cadet like myself. But it's definitely something that will need to sorted out somehow in the 36 hours I am here.</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Regardless, I check into my hotel after being dealt with by a front desk lady who's attitude resembled that of someone with a hangover. She admitted to the attitude though and me being an easy-going guy, I could work around that sort of thing.</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">It's probably a good time to go back and let you know that this whole trip is taken care of by Nike. Big thanks. My flight, my nice town car transportation, my hotel, everything. Taken care of by the good people at Nike.</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/hotel-lucia-portland.jpg" alt="" /></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">So I get to the Hotel Lucia around 1pm. With about 2 hours to kill, the first thing I get sorted out is the license thing and my flight tomorrow. Luckily, Alaska Airlines says that I can fly back on the return flight because they know I've flown up with them and I got a Costco card with a picture on the back. So as long as I get there with enough time to answer some questionnaire, I'll be ok. (Thanks to my Sister-in-law for helping me with that.) Next up on my plate, I had to release the separated interviews of Monday's show: Paul MacDonald and David Michael of MyOldManSaid.com. Finally, that left me about an hour and fifteen minutes to run out and get a bite to eat while catching some of the sights of the city immediately around my hotel.<img style="float: right; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/hotdogs.jpg" alt="Hotdog stand" width="317" height="423" /></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Out the doors I make a right and head up the street to whatever looks interesting. With only two cups of coffee, a Sprite and a small package of pretzels in my gut, I was looking about for food. After a couple blocks of stores and coffee shops, I run into a brick square where people playing chess on thoughtfully planned art-work greets me on the corner. Just past them, I see a little farmers market where a handful of tents offer up various berries and other fruits and vegetables. That's all well and good, but I was after something that would fill me up and last me until the planned dinner at 7pm. There was one stand that was grilling up burgers, and went right up to order myself one.</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">I was carrying on some friendly conversation with this dude behind the grill when I saw them. Sure enough, across the street were two of Aston Villa's less recognizable footballers. (I say less recognizable because being about 40 yards away and walking off in the distance, I couldn't make out faces, but I saw the blue jumpsuits with “Villa” across the back.) I damn near put an end to my order to chase these boys down to make them talk with me. What about? Who knows. But I wanted them to feel important and appreciated here in the States, because they were walking around being completely unknown. Well... unknown to everyone but me I guess.</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Instantly I thought of Geoff in Philly who would have loved seeing this. Conversation was an afterthought and I shouted out, “Oh my god! There go two Aston Villa players!”</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">“What man?” Lacking interest, the burger guy seemed a bit upset that I left our discussion.</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">“Those guys play for Aston Villa. I'm supposed to go to their friendly against the Timbers tomorrow night.”</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">The Timbers brought him back to friendly terms. He told me where they were probably staying, and I took note. By they time he finished my burger and wrapped it up, I missed my chance to make the Villa boys feel like the celebrities they thought they were. Regardless, I'd get at them later.</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Burger in hand, I headed back to hotel to prep for Day 1 of the Nike Soccer Immersion event. The group of 24 leaves the hotel on a shuttle at 3pm.</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"> </p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"> </p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Reflecting on Day 1-</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"> </p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">I felt like I was a tourist in some touristy locale, packing into a small bus where to check out the sights and sounds of the place we all chose to vacation at. Everyone had a huge smile on their face. It was great to put faces to guests I've had on the show or people I tweet at regularly on the twitter, and it was even better to see familiar faces like Ben Hooper of the Bumpy Pitch and Juan Arango of GolTV. No egos really at all.</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Everyone was from some where. Everyone new about what your work and for the most part, everyone respected everyone else's work. It seemed like the perfect gathering of football family.</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">We made our way from our downtown hotel, out of Portland and onto the freeway to head to Beaverton, completely against traffic. Although, it should be noted, there wasn't much traffic at all to speak of.</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">When we pull off the free, it's a small town feel that hits you. It isn't until you turn right on to SW Walker that you start to get the feel of the massive Nike Campus. There's a 1.9 mile unobstructed running trail that circles the World Headquarters, covered by trees, taking you over bridges and keeping you in the picturesque natural surrounds of greenery.</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">We walked into the Tiger Woods Center first. Walking in to the rotunda, we're greeted by boots from Nike's past, present and future. After a few moments of everyone checking out the displays, we are wisked away as a group into a meeting room named after some golf experience. Everything is golf themed or related in the Tiger Woods center, touching on major moments in the golfers career.<img style="float: right; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/TigerWcenter.JPG" alt="Tiger Woods Center" width="451" height="338" /></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">In the room are multiple displays of Nike gear and football fashion. Manchester United kits and apparel, same goes for the Barcelona and US Soccer stuff. There is a current boot display that isn't really paid much attention to because we've all been there and seen it for the past few months. Then we are asked to sit down for the official greeting.</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">A hip guy by the name of Tim gives us the official welcome and quick run-down of Nike's history of boots. Fun fact: the first “swoosh” was applied to a 1970's boot that was used in the Mexico World Cup (even though it was an all purpose boot).</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><img style="float: left; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Nike_Soccer_Immersion_009.jpg" alt="" width="446" height="297" />After we get a good run down of Nike's innovation driven football/soccer department from one of it's head's, we taken outside to overlook a gorgeous pitch we are told is “Ronaldo Field” named after Ronaldo #1, leading goal scorer in World Cup history. (Seems reasonable) We're broken up into two groups and we head off in separate directions to tour the Nike Campus.</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Building after building, you come to find out everything is named after a Nike athlete who made history in the name of the brand. Like temples or memorials to various Greek or Roman Gods, we're taken into buildings named after the like's of the Bo Jackson Workout Facility, the Mia Hamm Building, or the Nolan Ryan Building. Each a shrine with tokens of history commemorating athletic achievements. And yes, we feel like we're walking through a college. It's quite inspiring to any person who is slightly interested in sports.</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Finally we return to the Tiger Woods building, meeting up with the other group. We head on to the bus we came in, and the collective of media from around the country head off to Olympic Provisions. I found this clever as well, because not only was it referencing the Olympic region of the Pacific Northwest, but I'm sure Nike PR chose the place because of the Olympics which were set to launch in the next few days. Again, clever, clever.<img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Nike_Soccer_Immersion_001.jpg" alt="" /></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Dinner was fun. Drinks were flowing. Meat was eaten. (There were vegetables and dessert as well) Nike picked up the tab as the group mingled, asking questions about each other's sites, columns, articles and work. The PR girls were kind and friendly, making the evening's three hour dinner (yup, three hours) go by pretty quick. At by 10, we all got back onto our special little bus and headed back into downtown Portland to chic little hotel.</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">It was around this time that I made the decision to walk to Jeld-Wen Stadium. I was told earlier that it was a reasonable walk from my hotel. And it was. Only about 16-18 blocks (I cant really recall). I made the walk, and just about when I was thinking I may have gone in the complete opposite direction, out of nowhere pops up the Timber's home. I made a lap around the thing to take it all in because I wouldn't be able to make the game Tuesday night.</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Afterwards, I ran home. Jeans and polo on, I ran back to the Hotel Lucia.</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">I did a little work and hit my pillow at 12:36am.</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/JeldWen.JPG" alt="" width="702" height="526" /></p>
Rafa Gonzales
2012-07-27T01:20:00Z
Managerial merry-go-round in EPL
Thomas Rooney
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Managerial-merry-go-round-in-EPL/419795905039925067.html
2012-06-12T13:05:00Z
2012-06-12T13:05:00Z
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Everyone over at <a href="http://euro2012onlinebetting.com/">euro2012onlinebetting.com</a> will agree that Aston Villa have a bright, focused and fiercely ambitious young manager in Paul Lambert and after the disappointment of last season under Alex McLeish, Villa fans will be much more optimistic for the new season ahead.<br /><br />He is an excellent man-manager and has the aura that all great managers possess. Lambert will back his players to the hilt and very, very rarely criticises them in public. But they will also know that if they do not show the desired effort and commitment on the pitch, Lambert will have harsh words and they will be out of the door pretty quickly.<br /><br />So while Villa should be moving into calmer waters, what of Norwich City? Well despite the loss of Lambert, which on the face of it is obviously a blow, I believe they are now in a stronger position now Hughton is at the helm.<br /><br />It would have been very difficult for Lambert to repeat last season’s heroic 12th place finish and second season syndrome would have been a significant barrier to overcome. But now the Canaries have a new manager, there is a freshness around the place and it is a new start for City.<br /><br />You will not hear anyone in football say anything negative about Hughton and the job he did at St Andrews last year, by finishing fourth under very difficult circumstances, was outstanding.<br /><br />In my opinion, both Aston Villa and Norwich City look to be in a healthier place right now. And for that, credit must go to the Canaries board, who got their man with minimal fuss.<br /><br />Now, when are those fixtures announced?<br /><br />In the meantime, remember you can <a href="http://euro2012onlinebetting.com/golden-boot/">Bet here</a> on the Euro 2012 top goalscorer!</span>
Thomas Rooney
2012-06-12T13:05:00Z
Euro 2012 Preview: Group D
WFD Staff
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Euro-2012-Preview:-Group-D/46250392653747975.html
2012-06-07T19:02:00Z
2012-06-07T19:02:00Z
<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><strong>Ukraine <br /><br /></strong>
<p><strong>How they qualified: </strong>Home Nation<strong><br /></strong></p>
<p><strong>Team Base: </strong>Kiev<strong> <br /></strong></p>
<p>The co-hosts are probably the weakest side in the whole tournament and, although the support of the home fans may spur them on, it’s very difficult to seem them out doing France, Sweden or England in group D.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.worldfootballdaily.com/images/blog/Andriy-Yarmolenko-Ukraine-vs-Austria_2769711.jpg" alt="" width="349" height="261" /></p>
<p>Yarolslav Rakytskyi will need to show a defensive solidarity in the heart of Ukraine’s midfield in order to give the co-hosts a chance of keeping a grip on their games while Andriy Yarmolenko, the man marked as the new Shevchenko, will be called up one to create and score chances down Ukraine’s left flank.</p>
<p>Talking of Shevchenko, he will be given his last outing as an international player and, at the age of 35, he’ll be desperate to restore some national pride by making a positive impact on the tournament.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img src="https://www.worldfootballdaily.com/images/blog/ShevaUkrain.jpg" alt="" width="339" height="214" /></p>
<p>The lack of standout quality will hinder any progression and with their defence lacking any true identity, limiting opposition’s chances may prove to be very difficult.</p>
<br />
<p> </p>
<p><strong>WFD Predicted Starting XI: </strong>4-4-2</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">Shovkovskyi</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US"> </span>Butko <span lang="EN-US">- </span>Kucher <span lang="EN-US">-</span> Chygrynskyi <span lang="EN-US">- </span>Selin</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">Huslev - Tymoshchuk - Rakytskyi - Yarmolenko</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">Shevchenko - Milevskyi</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></p>
<p><strong>WFD predicted group finish:</strong> 4th</p>
<p> </p>
<strong>Ukraine Group Schedule: </strong>(All times local)<strong><br /></strong>
<p><strong>Match 1: </strong>June 11 v Sweden - Olympic Stadium, Kiev (21:45)</p>
<p><strong>Match 2: </strong>June 15 v France - Donbass Arena, Donetsk (19:00)<strong><br /></strong></p>
<strong>Match 3: </strong>June 19 v England - Donbass Arena, Donetsk (21:45)<br /><br /><strong>Sweden<br /><br /></strong>
<p><strong>How they qualified: </strong>Finished 2nd in European Qualifying Group F; Qualified as best placed runner-up.</p>
<p><strong>Team Base: </strong>Koncha-Zaspa<br /><strong> </strong></p>
<p><strong> </strong>Sweden’s hopes for progressing from Group D come down to one question. Which Zlatan Ibrahimovic will turn up to play in this summers tournament?</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img src="https://www.worldfootballdaily.com/images/blog/Zlatan-Ibrahimovic-Sweden.jpg" alt="" width="228" height="228" /></p>
<p>At his best Zlatan is almost impossible to play against, as Arsenal found out in their 4-0 defeat to AC Milan in this year’s Champions League, but if he’s not imposing himself on the game, the 6’5” forward can look lost and fails to make an impact in a game.</p>
<p>If that happens Johan Elmander will be the man relied on to find the goals for the Scandinavians. Elmander had a promising spell at Bolton Wanderers before moving to Turkish giants Galatasary last summer where he’s flourished.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.worldfootballdaily.com/images/blog/JohanElmanderSweden.jpg" alt="" /></p>
<p>Their main problems for Eric Hamren’s side are in defence where an inexperienced Jonass Olsson will play next to right back Mikael Listig, who has a habit of pushing forward and neglecting his defensive duties.</p>
<p>Sweden are a strong side and one that will go into the tournament very underrated by those they face and the media. This could work to their advantage and they could be the surprise team to come out of this group.</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>WFD Predicted Starting XI: </strong>4-2-2-1-1</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US">Isaksson</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US">Lustig </span><span lang="EN-US">- </span><span lang="EN-US">J. Olsson </span><span lang="EN-US">-</span> <span lang="EN-US">Mellberg </span><span lang="EN-US">- </span><span lang="EN-US">M. Olsson</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US">Svensson </span>- <span lang="EN-US">Kallstrom</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US">Larsson</span> - <span lang="EN-US">Elm</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US">Ibrahimovic</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US">Elmander<br /></span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></p>
<p><strong>WFD predicted group finish:</strong> 3rd</p>
<p> </p>
<strong>Sweden Group Schedule: </strong>(All times local)<strong><br /></strong>
<p><strong>Match 1: </strong>June 11 v Ukraine - Olympic Stadium, Kiev (21:45)</p>
<p><strong>Match 2: </strong>June 15 v England - Olympic Stadium, Kiev (21:45)<strong><br /></strong></p>
<p><strong>Match 3: </strong>June 19 v France - Olympic Stadium, Kiev (21:45)</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>France</strong></p>
<p><strong> </strong></p>
<p><strong>How they qualified: </strong>Finished 1st in European Qualifying Group D</p>
<p><strong>Team Base: </strong>Donetsk<strong> <br /></strong></p>
<p> </p>
<p>It feels like a long time since France hoisted the trophy in the year 2000 after David Trezeguet’s golden goal crushed Italian hearts.</p>
<p>The most recent memory of the national side is one of revolution (surprise surprise) as the mutiny in the French camp destroyed their 2010 World Cup campaign in South Africa.</p>
<p>Laurent Blanc has to be credited with getting his side back on track, and the national pride that should be felt when wearing the French shirt has seemingly returned to the squad, although Patrice Evra’s antics on the bench against Serbia a week before the start of the tournament have placed that mentality under threat.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.worldfootballdaily.com/images/blog/Patrice-Evra-France.jpg" alt="" width="246" height="147" /></p>
<p>His side is young and full of potential and skill. Arjen Robben is of course the man to watch out for in the French attack, along with Real Madrid’s Karim Benzema, but it is the unknown quantities of Yohan Cabaye, Hatem Ben Arfa and Ligue 1 winning, Montpellier striker, Olivier Giroud.<img style="float: right;" src="https://www.worldfootballdaily.com/images/blog/BenzemaFrance.jpg" alt="" width="186" height="186" /></p>
<p>Giroud and Ben Arfa will provide vital cover for Benzema while bringing an extra attacking threat off the bench when needed, while Cabaye, who’s had a phenominal year with the Newcastle, will help control the midfield, especially after wonderkid Yann M’Villa’s late injury scare.</p>
<p>The French could get out of this tough tight group for sure, but the potential for a blowout is always lingering around this side.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>WFD Predicted Starting XI: </strong>4-2-3-1</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US">Lloris</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US">Debuchy </span><span lang="EN-US">- </span><span lang="EN-US">Rami </span><span lang="EN-US">-</span> <span lang="EN-US">Mexes </span><span lang="EN-US">- </span><span lang="EN-US">Evra</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US">Cabaye </span>- <span lang="EN-US">M’Villa</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US">Nasri </span>- <span lang="EN-US">Ribery</span>- <span lang="EN-US">Malouda</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US">Benzema</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></p>
<p><strong>WFD predicted group finish:</strong> 2nd</p>
<p> </p>
<strong>France Group Schedule: </strong>(All times local)<strong><br /></strong>
<p><strong>Match 1: </strong>June 11 v England - Donbass Arena, Donetsk (19:00)</p>
<p><strong>Match 2: </strong>June 15 v Ukraine - Donbass Arena, Donetsk (19:00)<strong><br /></strong></p>
<p><strong>Match 3: </strong>June 19 v Sweden - Olympic Stadium, Kiev (21:45)</p>
<p> </p>
<strong>England<br /><br /></strong>
<p><strong>How they qualified: </strong>Finished 1st in European Qualifying Group G</p>
<p><strong>Team Base: </strong>Krakow<br /><strong> </strong></p>
<p><strong> </strong>It’s the first time in a long time that England have gone into a major tournament without the pressure of being held up by the media as potential finalists.</p>
<p>In fact, with all the turmoil of finding a new manager, the fading of the ‘golden generation’, the off field problems that surround John Terry, and the surprising squad inclusions and injury problems mean that if England get out of the group stage, most fans will be happy with what Roy Hodgson has done.</p>
<p><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="https://www.worldfootballdaily.com/images/blog/Joe-Hart.jpg" alt="" width="252" height="252" /></p>
<p>This could work in England’s favour and that, combined with a solid defence, could see England do what Greece did in ’04 and surprise all of us by<img style="float: right;" src="https://www.worldfootballdaily.com/images/blog/ColeEngland.jpg" alt="" width="246" height="225" /> going all the way.</p>
<p>The defence will be lead by Manchester City keeper Joe Hart, while the loss of Gary Cahill with a broken jaw means Joleon Lescott will partner John Terry, or Phil Jagielka, in England’s back four.</p>
<p>Ashley Cole provides a world class left-back and Glenn Johnson brings pace and cover to the right side of the English back line.</p>
<p>With Rooney missing England’s first two group games, Danny Welbeck looks set to lead the line for Hodgson, while we all wait to see what part, if any, Arsenal’s Alex Oxlaide-Chamberlain will play in the tournament.</p>
<p> </p>
<br />
<p> </p>
<p><strong>WFD Predicted Starting XI: </strong>4-4-1-1</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US">Hart</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US"> </span><span lang="EN-US">G. Johnson </span><span lang="EN-US">- </span><span lang="EN-US">Lescott </span><span lang="EN-US">-</span> Terry <span lang="EN-US">- </span><span lang="EN-US">A. Cole</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US">Milner - </span><span lang="EN-US">Gerrard - </span><span lang="EN-US">Parker - </span><span lang="EN-US">Downing</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US">A. Young</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US">Welbeck<br /></span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></p>
<p><strong>WFD predicted group finish:</strong> 1st</p>
<p> </p>
<strong>England Group Schedule: </strong>(All times local)<strong><br /></strong>
<p><strong>Match 1: </strong>June 11 v France - Donbass Arena, Donetsk (19:00)</p>
<p><strong>Match 2: </strong>June 15 v Sweden - Olympic Stadium, Kiev (21:45)<strong><br /></strong></p>
<p><strong>Match 3: </strong>June 19 v Ukraine - Donbass Arena, Donetsk (21:45)</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Donbass Arena, Donetsk</strong></p>
<strong> </strong><br /><strong>Capacity:</strong> <span lang="EN-US"> </span><span lang="EN-US"> 52,518</span><br /><span lang="EN-US"><br /></span>
<p>Seen on numerous occasions in the Champions League brimming with Shakhtar Donetsk fans, the 50,000+ arena can be one of the most exciting and noisy ground in all of Europe.</p>
<p style="text-align: right;"><img src="https://www.worldfootballdaily.com/images/blog/Donetsk2.jpg" alt="" /></p>
<p>Designed by the British firm that also designed the Etihad Stadium and the Allianz the futuristic, UFO looking, stadium was originally thought to be for the host venue for the final, but the City itself was thought to not hold enough attractions for the tourist to warrant hosting the tournaments most vital game.</p>
<p>Situated in the northern part of the center of the city the Arena cost €320 million to build and was opened with a Beyonce concert on August 29<sup>th</sup> 2009.</p>
<p>The 3,800 ton roof of steal will keep the atmosphere held in this cathedral of football that is often harshly over looked as one of the top football grounds in Europe.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><img src="https://www.worldfootballdaily.com/images/blog/Donetsk3.jpg" alt="" width="355" height="236" /></p>
<br /><strong><br />Games: </strong>(All times are local)<br />France v England June 11th (19:00)<br />France v Ukraine June 15th (19:00)<br />England v Ukraine June 19th (21:45)<br /><br />Quarterfinal #3 <br />Winner of Group C v Runner-up of Group D June 23rd (21:45)<br /><br />Semi-final #1<br />Winner of Quarterfinal #1 v Winner of Quarterfinal #3 June 27th (21:45)<br /><br /><strong>Olympic Stadium, Kiev<br /><br /></strong><strong> </strong><br /><strong>Capacity:</strong> <span lang="EN-US"> </span><span lang="EN-US"> </span>65,720<br /><br />
<p>The host venue for the final is not the newest, but arguably the grandest stadium in the Ukraine.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img src="https://www.worldfootballdaily.com/images/blog/kiev2.jpg" alt="" width="377" height="252" /></p>
<p>The home to Dynamo Kiev Andriy Shevchenko will feel right at home when he walks out, along with his teammates, on June 11<sup>th</sup> for his sides opening game of the tournament.</p>
<p>Built in 1923 the arena has been remodeled since then, including a full makeover in 2011 to bring it up to scratch for the tournament including the construction of a new West Stand with a two-level press box and a new transparent roof.</p>
<p>Situated at the foot of Kiev’s central Cherepanov Hill in Pechersk the stadium is right in the heart of this beautiful city and a fitting venue for the tournaments final.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.worldfootballdaily.com/images/blog/Kiev3.jpg" alt="" width="439" height="341" /></p>
<br /><span lang="EN-US"><br /></span><br /><strong><br />Games: </strong>(All times are local)<br />Ukraine v Sweden June 11th (21:45)<br />England v Sweden June 15th (21:45)<br />France v Sweden June 19th (21:45)<br /><br />Quarterfinal #4 <br />Winner of Group D v Runner-up of Group C June 24th (21:45)<br /><br />Final<br />Winner of Semi-final #1 v Winner of Semi-final #2 July 1st (21:45)<br /><br />
WFD Staff
2012-06-07T19:02:00Z
Downing - We do not fear France
Thomas Rooney
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Downing---We-do-not-fear-France/-210178362426852934.html
2012-06-07T17:10:00Z
2012-06-07T17:10:00Z
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Those over at <a href="http://bonusbetting.co.uk/">BonusBetting</a> note how It is certainly a tough start to the tournament for Roy Hodgson’s men and avoiding defeat is very important with regards to their chances of progressing from Group D.<br /><br />However, Downing – who was a surprise inclusion in the squad for many – says that the team are ready to get Euro 2012 off to the best possible start with three points.<br /><br />The Liverpool man said: “We are confident we can get a result. We don't fear them. We know they are a good team but so are we. We know their strength and weaknesses.”<br /><br />Downing then defended the amount of Liverpool players in the squad – they have six representatives, more than any other club – despite the relatively poor season the Reds had.<br /><br />On this subject, the former Middlesbrough man said: “Whoever the manager picks, we get on with it. I concentrate on my position in the team and so do the other players.”<br /><br />“If you look at our (Liverpool) performances, we battered teams at times but we did not have the killer instinct.”<br /><br />As for what France are saying about England, manager Laurent Blanc believes that Hodgson’s men will be ‘physical’.<br /><br />He said: They are not at full strength but what concerns me is that England will play in a certain style.<br /><br />"We are going to have to be extremely strong physically. That is going to be a difficult match.”<br /><br /></span><span style="font-size: x-small;">Those assessing the match using an <a href="http://oddsconverter.co.uk/">odds converter</a> will tell you that France are the favourites, but England are very much in contention. It should be a top game</span>. <br />
Thomas Rooney
2012-06-07T17:10:00Z
Euro 2012 Preview: Ukraine
WFD Staff
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Euro-2012-Preview:-Ukraine/-966227684737041496.html
2012-06-06T19:16:00Z
2012-06-06T19:16:00Z
<p><strong>How they qualified: </strong>Home Nation<strong><br /></strong></p>
<p><strong>Team Base: </strong>Kiev<strong> <br /></strong></p>
<p>The co-hosts are probably the weakest side in the whole tournament and, although the support of the home fans may spur them on, it’s very difficult to seem them out doing France, Sweden or England in group D.</p>
<p><img src="/images/blog/Andriy-Yarmolenko-Ukraine-vs-Austria_2769711.jpg" alt="" width="349" height="261" /></p>
<p>Yarolslav Rakytskyi will need to show a defensive solidarity in the heart of Ukraine’s midfield in order to give the co-hosts a chance of keeping a grip on their games while Andriy Yarmolenko, the man marked as the new Shevchenko, will be called up one to create and score chances down Ukraine’s left flank.</p>
<p>Talking of Shevchenko, he will be given his last outing as an international player and, at the age of 35, he’ll be desperate to restore some national pride by making a positive impact on the tournament.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/blog/ShevaUkrain.jpg" alt="" width="339" height="214" /></p>
<p>The lack of standout quality will hinder any progression and with their defence lacking any true identity, limiting opposition’s chances may prove to be very difficult.</p>
<br />
<p> </p>
<p><strong>WFD Predicted Starting XI: </strong>4-4-2</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">Shovkovskyi</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US"></span>Butko <span lang="EN-US">- </span>Kucher <span lang="EN-US">-</span> Chygrynskyi <span lang="EN-US">- </span>Selin</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">Huslev - Tymoshchuk - Rakytskyi - Yarmolenko</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">Shevchenko - Milevskyi</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></p>
<p><strong>WFD predicted group finish:</strong> 4th</p>
<p> </p>
<strong>Ukraine Group Schedule: </strong>(All times local)<strong><br /></strong>
<p><strong>Match 1: </strong>June 11 v Sweden - Olympic Stadium, Kiev (21:45)</p>
<p><strong>Match 2: </strong>June 15 v France - Donbass Arena, Donetsk (19:00)<strong><br /></strong></p>
<p><strong>Match 3: </strong>June 19 v England - Donbass Arena, Donetsk (21:45)</p>
<p> </p>
<br />
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
WFD Staff
2012-06-06T19:16:00Z
Euro 2012 Preview: England
WFD Staff
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Euro-2012-Preview:-England/-98361113929315249.html
2012-06-06T19:13:00Z
2012-06-06T19:13:00Z
<p><strong>How they qualified: </strong>Finished 1st in European Qualifying Group G</p>
<p><strong>Team Base: </strong>Krakow<br /><strong> </strong></p>
<p><strong> </strong></p>
<p><strong> </strong>It’s the first time in a long time that England have gone into a major tournament without the pressure of being held up by the media as potential finalists.</p>
<p>In fact, with all the turmoil of finding a new manager, the fading of the ‘golden generation’, the off field problems that surround John Terry, and the surprising squad inclusions and injury problems mean that if England get out of the group stage, most fans will be happy with what Roy Hodgson has done.</p>
<p><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="/images/blog/Joe-Hart.jpg" alt="" width="252" height="252" /></p>
<p>This could work in England’s favour and that, combined with a solid defence, could see England do what Greece did in ’04 and surprise all of us by<img style="float: right;" src="/images/blog/ColeEngland.jpg" alt="" width="246" height="225" /> going all the way.</p>
<p>The defence will be lead by Manchester City keeper Joe Hart, while the loss of Gary Cahill with a broken jaw means Joleon Lescott will partner John Terry, or Phil Jagielka, in England’s back four.</p>
<p>Ashley Cole provides a world class left-back and Glenn Johnson brings pace and cover to the right side of the English back line.</p>
<p>With Rooney missing England’s first two group games, Danny Welbeck looks set to lead the line for Hodgson, while we all wait to see what part, if any, Arsenal’s Alex Oxlaide-Chamberlain will play in the tournament.</p>
<p> </p>
<br />
<p> </p>
<p><strong>WFD Predicted Starting XI: </strong>4-4-1-1</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US">Hart</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US"> </span><span lang="EN-US">G. Johnson </span><span lang="EN-US">- </span><span lang="EN-US">Lescott </span><span lang="EN-US">-</span> Terry <span lang="EN-US">- </span><span lang="EN-US">A. Cole</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US">Milner - </span><span lang="EN-US">Gerrard - </span><span lang="EN-US">Parker - </span><span lang="EN-US">Downing</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US">A. Young</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US">Welbeck<br /></span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></p>
<p><strong>WFD predicted group finish:</strong> 1st</p>
<p> </p>
<strong>England Group Schedule: </strong>(All times local)<strong><br /></strong>
<p><strong>Match 1: </strong>June 11 v France - Donbass Arena, Donetsk (19:00)</p>
<p><strong>Match 2: </strong>June 15 v Sweden - Olympic Stadium, Kiev (21:45)<strong><br /></strong></p>
<p><strong>Match 3: </strong>June 19 v Ukraine - Donbass Arena, Donetsk (21:45)</p>
<p> </p>
<br />
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
WFD Staff
2012-06-06T19:13:00Z
Euro 2012 Preview: Olympic Stadium, Kiev
WFD Staff
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Euro-2012-Preview:-Olympic-Stadium,-Kiev/955389921613528852.html
2012-06-06T18:20:00Z
2012-06-06T18:20:00Z
<strong> </strong><br /><br /><strong><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></strong><strong>Capacity:</strong> <span lang="EN-US"> </span><span lang="EN-US"> </span>65,720<br /><br />
<p>The host venue for the final is not the newest, but arguably the grandest stadium in the Ukraine.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/blog/kiev2.jpg" alt="" width="377" height="252" /></p>
<p>The home to Dynamo Kiev Andriy Shevchenko will feel right at home when he walks out, along with his teammates, on June 11<sup>th</sup> for his sides opening game of the tournament.</p>
<p>Built in 1923 the arena has been remodeled since then, including a full makeover in 2011 to bring it up to scratch for the tournament including the construction of a new West Stand with a two-level press box and a new transparent roof.</p>
<p>Situated at the foot of Kiev’s central Cherepanov Hill in Pechersk the stadium is right in the heart of this beautiful city and a fitting venue for the tournaments final.</p>
<p><img src="/images/blog/Kiev3.jpg" alt="" width="439" height="341" /></p>
<br /><span lang="EN-US"><br /></span><br /><strong><br />Games: </strong>(All times are local)<br />Ukraine v Sweden June 11th (21:45)<br />England v Sweden June 15th (21:45)<br />France v Sweden June 19th (21:45)<br /><br />Quarterfinal #4 <br />Winner of Group D v Runner-up of Group C June 24th (21:45)<br /><br />Final<br />Winner of Semi-final #1 v Winner of Semi-final #2 July 1st (21:45)<br /><br /><br />
WFD Staff
2012-06-06T18:20:00Z
Euro 2012 Preview: France
WFD Staff
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Euro-2012-Preview:-France/-829143977910835791.html
2012-06-05T16:16:00Z
2012-06-05T16:16:00Z
<p><strong>How they qualified: </strong>Finished 1st in European Qualifying Group D</p>
<p><strong>Team Base: </strong>Donetsk<strong> <br /></strong></p>
<p> </p>
<p>It feels like a long time since France hoisted the trophy in the year 2000 after David Trezeguet’s golden goal crushed Italian hearts.</p>
<p>The most recent memory of the national side is one of revolution (surprise surprise) as the mutiny in the French camp destroyed their 2010 World Cup campaign in South Africa.</p>
<p>Laurent Blanc has to be credited with getting his side back on track, and the national pride that should be felt when wearing the French shirt has seemingly returned to the squad, although Patrice Evra’s antics on the bench against Serbia a week before the start of the tournament have placed that mentality under threat.</p>
<p><img src="/images/blog/Patrice-Evra-France.jpg" alt="" width="246" height="147" /></p>
<p>His side is young and full of potential and skill. Arjen Robben is of course the man to watch out for in the French attack, along with Real Madrid’s Karim Benzema, but it is the unknown quantities of Yohan Cabaye, Hatem Ben Arfa and Ligue 1 winning, Montpellier striker, Olivier Giroud.<img style="float: right;" src="/images/blog/BenzemaFrance.jpg" alt="" width="186" height="186" /></p>
<p>Giroud and Ben Arfa will provide vital cover for Benzema while bringing an extra attacking threat off the bench when needed, while Cabaye, who’s had a phenominal year with the Newcastle, will help control the midfield, especially after wonderkid Yann M’Villa’s late injury scare.</p>
<p>The French could get out of this tough tight group for sure, but the potential for a blowout is always lingering around this side.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>WFD Predicted Starting XI: </strong>4-2-3-1</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US">Lloris</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US">Debuchy </span><span lang="EN-US">- </span><span lang="EN-US">Rami </span><span lang="EN-US">-</span> <span lang="EN-US">Mexes </span><span lang="EN-US">- </span><span lang="EN-US">Evra</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US">Cabaye </span>- <span lang="EN-US">M’Villa</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US">Nasri </span>- <span lang="EN-US">Ribery</span>- <span lang="EN-US">Malouda</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US">Benzema</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></p>
<p><strong>WFD predicted group finish:</strong> 2nd</p>
<p> </p>
<strong>France Group Schedule: </strong>(All times local)<strong><br /></strong>
<p><strong>Match 1: </strong>June 11 v England - Donbass Arena, Donetsk (19:00)</p>
<p><strong>Match 2: </strong>June 15 v Ukraine - Donbass Arena, Donetsk (19:00)<strong><br /></strong></p>
<p><strong>Match 3: </strong>June 19 v Sweden - Olympic Stadium, Kiev (21:45)</p>
<p> </p>
<br />
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
WFD Staff
2012-06-05T16:16:00Z
Euro 2012 Preview: Sweden
WFD Staff
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Euro-2012-Preview:-Sweden/419488322533066615.html
2012-06-05T16:10:00Z
2012-06-05T16:10:00Z
<p><strong>How they qualified: </strong>Finished 2nd in European Qualifying Group F; Qualified as best placed runner-up.</p>
<p><strong>Team Base: </strong>Koncha-Zaspa<br /><strong> </strong></p>
<p><strong> </strong></p>
<p><strong> </strong></p>
<p><strong> </strong></p>
<p><strong> </strong></p>
<p><strong> </strong></p>
<p><strong><br /></strong></p>
<p>Sweden’s hopes for progressing from Group D come down to one question. Which Zlatan Ibrahimovic will turn up to play in this summers tournament?</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/blog/Zlatan-Ibrahimovic-Sweden.jpg" alt="" width="228" height="228" /></p>
<p>At his best Zlatan is almost impossible to play against, as Arsenal found out in their 4-0 defeat to AC Milan in this year’s Champions League, but if he’s not imposing himself on the game, the 6’5” forward can look lost and fails to make an impact in a game.</p>
<p>If that happens Johan Elmander will be the man relied on to find the goals for the Scandinavians. Elmander had a promising spell at Bolton Wanderers before moving to Turkish giants Galatasary last summer where he’s flourished.</p>
<p><img src="/images/blog/JohanElmanderSweden.jpg" alt="" /></p>
<p>Their main problems for Eric Hamren’s side are in defence where an inexperienced Jonass Olsson will play next to right back Mikael Listig, who has a habit of pushing forward and neglecting his defensive duties.</p>
<p>Sweden are a strong side and one that will go into the tournament very underrated by those they face and the media. This could work to their advantage and they could be the surprise team to come out of this group.</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>WFD Predicted Starting XI: </strong>4-2-2-1-1</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US">Isaksson</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US">Lustig </span><span lang="EN-US">- </span><span lang="EN-US">J. Olsson </span><span lang="EN-US">-</span> <span lang="EN-US">Mellberg </span><span lang="EN-US">- </span><span lang="EN-US">M. Olsson</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US">Svensson </span>- <span lang="EN-US">Kallstrom</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US">Larsson</span> - <span lang="EN-US">Elm</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US">Ibrahimovic</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US">Elmander<br /></span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></p>
<p><strong>WFD predicted group finish:</strong> 3rd</p>
<p> </p>
<strong>Sweden Group Schedule: </strong>(All times local)<strong><br /></strong>
<p><strong>Match 1: </strong>June 11 v Ukraine - Olympic Stadium, Kiev (21:45)</p>
<p><strong>Match 2: </strong>June 15 v England - Olympic Stadium, Kiev (21:45)<strong><br /></strong></p>
<p><strong>Match 3: </strong>June 19 v France - Olympic Stadium, Kiev (21:45)</p>
<p> </p>
<br />
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
WFD Staff
2012-06-05T16:10:00Z
Euro 2012 Preview: Donbass Arena, Donetsk
WFD Staff
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Euro-2012-Preview:-Donbass-Arena,-Donetsk/-89053088457009296.html
2012-06-05T16:05:00Z
2012-06-05T16:05:00Z
<strong> </strong><br /><br /><strong><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></strong><strong>Capacity:</strong> <span lang="EN-US"> </span><span lang="EN-US"> 52,518</span><br /><span lang="EN-US"><br /></span>
<p>Seen on numerous occasions in the Champions League brimming with Shakhtar Donetsk fans, the 50,000+ arena can be one of the most exciting and noisy ground in all of Europe.</p>
<p style="text-align: right;"><img src="/images/blog/Donetsk2.jpg" alt="" /></p>
<p>Designed by the British firm that also designed the Etihad Stadium and the Allianz the futuristic, UFO looking, stadium was originally thought to be for the host venue for the final, but the City itself was thought to not hold enough attractions for the tourist to warrant hosting the tournaments most vital game.</p>
<p>Situated in the northern part of the center of the city the Arena cost €320 million to build and was opened with a Beyonce concert on August 29<sup>th</sup> 2009.</p>
<p>The 3,800 ton roof of steal will keep the atmosphere held in this cathedral of football that is often harshly over looked as one of the top football grounds in Europe.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><img src="/images/blog/Donetsk3.jpg" alt="" width="355" height="236" /></p>
<br /><strong><br />Games: </strong>(All times are local)<br />France v England June 11th (19:00)<br />France v Ukraine June 15th (19:00)<br />England v Ukraine June 19th (21:45)<br /><br />Quarterfinal #3 <br />Winner of Group C v Runner-up of Group D June 23rd (21:45)<br /><br />Semi-final #1<br />Winner of Quarterfinal #1 v Winner of Quarterfinal #3 June 27th (21:45)<br /><br /><br />
WFD Staff
2012-06-05T16:05:00Z
Euro 2012 Preview: Group C
WFD Staff
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Euro-2012-Preview:-Group-C/-241293641741978474.html
2012-06-05T15:15:00Z
2012-06-05T15:15:00Z
<strong><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Spain<br /><br /><img src="/images/blog/SpainCrest.jpg" alt="" width="243" height="182" /><br /><br /></strong>
<p><strong>How they qualified: </strong>Finished 1st in European Qualifying Group I (Perfect Record)</p>
<p><strong>Team Base: </strong>Gniewino<strong> </strong></p>
<p>No David Villa and no Carlos Puyol would normally seem like two major losses to any footballing side. Spain however have so much strength in depth that these two superstars could go unmissed.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img src="https://www.worldfootballdaily.com/images/blog/TorresSpain.jpg" alt="" width="396" height="297" /></p>
<p>Fernando Torres will look to forget about the woes of the last 18-months and he and Athletic Bilbao’s Fernando Llorente will be in charge of finding the majority of the goals for the reigning European and World Cup champions, while David Silva Juan Mata, Andreas Iniesta and Xavi will, as usual, be providing the skill, touch and class of Spain’s tici-taca football.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.worldfootballdaily.com/images/blog/XaviSpain.jpg" alt="" width="280" height="226" /></p>
<p>With a solid defense lead by Gerard Pique and Sergio Ramos, and one of the worlds best goalkeepers behind them Spain have all the depth and quality they need to continue their international football dynasty.</p>
<br />
<p> </p>
<p><strong>WFD Predicted Starting XI: </strong>4-2-1-3</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">Casillas</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">Arbeloa <span lang="EN-US">- </span>Ramos <span lang="EN-US">-</span> Pique <span lang="EN-US">- </span>Alba</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">Busquets - Xabi Alonso</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">Mata - Xavi - Iniesta</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">Torres</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></p>
<p><strong>WFD predicted group finish:</strong> 1st</p>
<p> </p>
<strong>Spain Group Schedule: </strong>(All times local)<strong><br /></strong>
<p><strong>Match 1: </strong>June 10 v Italy - PGE Arena, Gdansk (18:00)</p>
<p><strong>Match 2: </strong>June 14 v Republic of Ireland - PGE Arena, Gdansk (20:45)<strong><br /></strong></p>
<strong>Match 3: </strong>June 18 v Croatia - PGE Arena, Gdansk (20:45)<br /><br /><strong>Italy<br /><br /><img src="/images/blog/italycrest.jpg" alt="" width="136" height="187" /><br /></strong>
<p><strong>How they qualified: </strong>Finished 1st in European Qualifying Group C</p>
<p><strong>Team Base: </strong>Krakow<strong><br /></strong></p>
<p> </p>
<p>There’s one important thing to remember about major international tournaments.</p>
<p>Never count out the Italians.</p>
<p>While another match fixing scandal begins to tear its way through Serie A Italy will find it difficult to hide from the media spotlight that will engulf them during this summer’s tournament.</p>
<p>The last time a major scandal hit Italy’s top flight though was 2006, a year when Italy went on to lift the World Cup in Germany, and many may underestimate the focus and ability of this Italian side because of the distraction of the media circus.</p>
<p>There have been casualties in the side because of it, with Domenico Criscito dumped out of Cesare Prandelli’s side, <img style="float: right;" src="https://www.worldfootballdaily.com/images/blog/Gianluigi-BUFFON.jpg" alt="" width="322" height="241" />while Gianluigi Buffon, the sides long term goalkeeper, is being investigated by the authorities after being implicated in the scandal too, although Buffon is still traveling with the side to Poland and the Ukraine.</p>
<p>There’s still enough quality in the Italy side to mount a realistic charge against any and all opposition and they could find their way out of the group with ease along with Spain.</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>WFD Predicted Starting XI: </strong>4-1-2-1-2</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US">Buffon</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US">Maggio - </span><span lang="EN-US">Barzagli - </span><span lang="EN-US">Chiellini - </span><span lang="EN-US">Balzaretti</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US">Pirlo</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US">Marchisio - </span><span lang="EN-US">De Rossi</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US">Motta</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US">Cassano - </span><span lang="EN-US">Balotelli</span></p>
<p> </p>
<br />
<p><strong>WFD predicted group finish:</strong> 2nd</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Italy Group Schedule: </strong>(All times local)<strong><br /></strong></p>
<p><strong>Match 1: </strong>June 10 v Spain - PGE Arena, Gdansk (18:00)</p>
<p><strong>Match 2: </strong>June 14 v Croatia - Municipal Stadium, Poznan (18:00)<strong><br /></strong></p>
<p><strong>Match 3: </strong>June 18 v Republic of Ireland - Municipal Stadium, Poznan (20:45)</p>
<p> <strong><br /></strong></p>
<p><strong>Republic of Ireland</strong></p>
<p><strong><img src="/images/blog/IrishCrest.JPG" alt="" width="169" height="169" /></strong></p>
<p><strong>How they qualified: </strong>Finished 2nd in European Qualifying Group B; defeated Estonia 5-1 on aggregate in playoff.</p>
<p><strong>Team Base: </strong>Sopot<strong> </strong></p>
<p><strong><br /></strong></p>
<p>We all know about the luck of the Irish, but Giovanni Trapattoni may need more then just luck to get his Republic of Ireland side out of a difficult group C and into the competitions quarterfinals.</p>
<p>Talisman Robbie Keane has had an indifferent start to the MLS season but he always seems to be able to produce the goods when pulling on the colours of his national side. The LA Galaxy striker scored seven goals in the 11 qualifying games he played in which was almost half the total goal tally of the team.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img src="https://www.worldfootballdaily.com/images/blog/Robbie.Keane.jpg" alt="" /></p>
<p>Alongside him up front will be either Kevin Doyle, of Wolverhampton Wanderers, or West Bromwich Albion’s Shane Long. Long has had a positive first season in the Premiership with the Baggies but injuries and the form of Peter Odewingie and Mark Antoine-Fortune have prevented the former Reading player from securing a place in the starting eleven, while Doyle has struggled to find goals or service in a very shoddy Wolves side.</p>
<p>The reliance on Keane to be the goal provider could hinder an ageing Irish squad while veterans Shay Given and Richard Dunne will be called on heavily to hold the defensive line.</p>
<p>A win in their opening game against Croatia will give them a fighting chance, but Ireland more then likely be on the first plane home after the group stages.</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>WFD Predicted Starting XI: </strong>4-4-2</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US">Given</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US">O’Shea - </span><span lang="EN-US">Dunne - </span><span lang="EN-US">St Ledger - </span><span lang="EN-US">Ward</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US">McGready - </span><span lang="EN-US">Whelan - </span><span lang="EN-US">Andrews - </span><span lang="EN-US">Duff</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US">Doyle - </span><span lang="EN-US">Keane</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></p>
<p><strong>WFD predicted group finish:</strong> 4th</p>
<strong>Republic of Ireland Group Schedule: </strong>(All times local)<strong><br /></strong>
<p><strong>Match 1: </strong>June 10 v Croatia - Municipal Stadium, Poznan (20:45)</p>
<p><strong>Match 2: </strong>June 14 v Spain - PGE Arena, Gdansk (20:45)<strong><br /></strong></p>
<strong>Match 3: </strong>June 18 v Italy - Municipal Stadium, Poznan (20:45)<br /><br /><br /><strong>Croatia<br /><br /><img src="/images/blog/CroatiaCrest.jpg" alt="" width="153" height="188" /><br /></strong>
<p><strong>How they qualified: </strong>Finished 2nd in European Qualifying Group F; defeated Turkey 3-0 on aggregate in playoff.</p>
<p><strong>Team Base: </strong>Warka<strong> </strong></p>
<p>A side that shocked the world in World Cup 98 and has made two quarterfinals appearances in it’s four possible European Championships, Croatia may be a young footballing nation, but it knows how to find success.</p>
<p>Their recent form however, has led to a number of questions being asked about how mentally prepared Slaven Bilic and his side are.<img style="float: right;" src="https://www.worldfootballdaily.com/images/blog/ModricCroatia.jpg" alt="" width="246" height="246" /></p>
<p>Bilic has received a lot of criticism about how his side faired in the qualifying stages and, with this summers tournament being his last, some feel he will not be able to motivate a side that knows they will be under new leadership next year.</p>
<p>The old guard though are ready to step up to what could be their final challenge, and with stars like Luka Modric and Darijo Srna ready to fight for the cause, Croatia have enough ability to cause a shock upset and get through the group stage.</p>
<p>The loss of Ivica Olic is a major loss to the side’s firepower but Everton’s Nikica Jelavic is more then capable of picking up the slack.</p>
<p> </p>
<br />
<p style="text-align: center;"> <img src="https://www.worldfootballdaily.com/images/blog/JelavicCroatia.jpg" alt="" width="409" height="276" /></p>
<br />
<p> </p>
<p><strong>WFD Predicted Starting XI: </strong>4-4-2</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">Pletikosa</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">Corluka <span lang="EN-US">- </span>Vida <span lang="EN-US">- </span>Simunic <span lang="EN-US">- </span>Pranjic</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">Srna <span lang="EN-US">- </span>Modric <span lang="EN-US">- </span>Dujmovic <span lang="EN-US">- </span>Rakitic</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">Jelavic <span lang="EN-US">- </span>Mandzukic</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></p>
<p><strong>WFD predicted group finish:</strong> 3rd</p>
<strong>Croatia Group Schedule: </strong>(All times local)<strong><br /></strong>
<p><strong>Match 1: </strong>June 10 v Republic of Ireland - Municipal Stadium, Poznan (20:45)</p>
<p><strong>Match 2: </strong>June 14 v Italy - Municipal Stadium, Poznan (18:00)<strong><br /></strong></p>
<p><strong>Match 3: </strong>June 18 v Spain - PGE Arena, Gdansk (20:45)</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Stadiums:</strong></p>
<p><strong> </strong></p>
<strong>Poznan Municipal Stadium<br /><br /><img src="/images/blog/Poznan1.jpg" alt="" width="264" height="176" /></strong>
<p> </p>
<strong> </strong><strong>Capacity:</strong> <span lang="EN-US">43,269<br /></span><span lang="EN-US"><br /></span>
<p>The home of Lech and Warta Poznan, City Stadium is the birthplace of the famous goal celebration that Manchester City fans have made their own at the Etihad Stadium.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img src="https://www.worldfootballdaily.com/images/blog/Poznan2.JPG" alt="" width="270" height="203" /></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"> </p>
<p>It’s the only stadium in the tournament to have a fully retractable roof and that combined with the unique atmosphere that could easily be adopted by Europe’s nosiest fans will create a bubbling atmosphere for fans and onlookers to enjoy.</p>
<p>Situated on the outskirts of Poznan the stadium also is home to the two biggest screens in Poland, each made up of 120 smaller LED screens.</p>
<br /><img src="https://www.worldfootballdaily.com/images/blog/Poznan3.jpg" alt="" width="301" height="200" /><br /><br /><strong><br />Games: </strong>(All times are local)<br />Republic of Ireland v Croatia June 10th (20:45)<br />Italy v Croatia June 14th (18:00)<br />Italy v Republic of Ireland June 18th (20:45)<br /><br /><br /><strong>PGE Arena, Gdansk<br /><br /><img src="/images/blog/PGE1.jpg" alt="" width="339" height="190" /><br /><br /></strong><strong>Capacity:</strong> <span lang="EN-US">43,615<br /><br /></span>
<p>Based in northern Poland and home to Lechia Gdansk the PGE arena is a shrine to the regions natural resources.</p>
<p>Decorated in amber plating on its outer shell to show the vast natural copper mines scattered across the region, the inside of the ground it boasts 40 VIP boxes, a pub, a restaurant and some of the steepest stands in the world, that help provide some of the finest viewing available in football.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img src="https://www.worldfootballdaily.com/images/blog/PGE2.jpg" alt="" /></p>
<p> </p>
<p>The ground was opened in 2011 and has hosted a number of games for both Lechia Gadansk and the national side, including Poland v Germany.</p>
<br /><span lang="EN-US"> </span><strong>Games: </strong>(All times are local)<br /><br />Spain v Italy June 10th (18:00)<br />Spain v Republic of Ireland June 14th (20:45)<br />Croatia v Spain June 18th (20:45)<br /> <br /> Quarterfinal #2<br /> Winner of Group B v Runner-up of Group A June 22nd (20:45)
<p> </p>
<strong> </strong>
WFD Staff
2012-06-05T15:15:00Z
Euro 2012 Preview: Spain
WFD Staff
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Euro-2012-Preview:-Spain/599821169154791184.html
2012-06-04T17:29:00Z
2012-06-04T17:29:00Z
<p><strong>How they qualified: </strong>Finished 1st in European Qualifying Group I (Perfect Record)</p>
<p><strong>Team Base: </strong>Gniewino<strong> </strong></p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p>No David Villa and no Carlos Puyol would normally seem like two major losses to any footballing side. Spain however have so much strength in depth that these two superstars could go unmissed.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/blog/TorresSpain.jpg" alt="" width="396" height="297" /></p>
<p>Fernando Torres will look to forget about the woes of the last 18-months and he and Athletic Bilbao’s Fernando Llorente will be in charge of finding the majority of the goals for the reigning European and World Cup champions, while David Silva Juan Mata, Andreas Iniesta and Xavi will, as usual, be providing the skill, touch and class of Spain’s tici-taca football.</p>
<p><img src="/images/blog/XaviSpain.jpg" alt="" width="280" height="226" /></p>
<p>With a solid defense lead by Gerard Pique and Sergio Ramos, and one of the worlds best goalkeepers behind them Spain have all the depth and quality they need to continue their international football dynasty.</p>
<br />
<p> </p>
<p><strong>WFD Predicted Starting XI: </strong>4-2-1-3</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">Casillas</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">Arbeloa <span lang="EN-US">- </span>Ramos <span lang="EN-US">-</span> Pique <span lang="EN-US">- </span>Alba</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">Busquets - Xabi Alonso</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">Mata - Xavi - Iniesta</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">Torres</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></p>
<p><strong>WFD predicted group finish:</strong> 1st</p>
<p> </p>
<strong>Spain Group Schedule: </strong>(All times local)<strong><br /></strong>
<p><strong>Match 1: </strong>June 10 v Italy - PGE Arena, Gdansk (18:00)</p>
<p><strong>Match 2: </strong>June 14 v Republic of Ireland - PGE Arena, Gdansk (20:45)<strong><br /></strong></p>
<p><strong>Match 3: </strong>June 18 v Croatia - PGE Arena, Gdansk (20:45)</p>
<p> </p>
<br />
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
WFD Staff
2012-06-04T17:29:00Z
Euro 2012 Preview: Croatia
WFD Staff
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Euro-2012-Preview:-Croatia/857842023722961803.html
2012-06-04T17:25:00Z
2012-06-04T17:25:00Z
<p><strong>How they qualified: </strong>Finished 2nd in European Qualifying Group F; defeated Turkey 3-0 on aggregate in playoff.</p>
<p><strong>Team Base: </strong>Warka<strong> </strong></p>
<p>A side that shocked the world in World Cup 98 and has made two quarterfinals appearances in it’s four possible European Championships, Croatia may be a young footballing nation, but it knows how to find success.</p>
<p>Their recent form however, has led to a number of questions being asked about how mentally prepared Slaven Bilic and his side are.<img style="float: right;" src="/images/blog/ModricCroatia.jpg" alt="" width="246" height="246" /></p>
<p>Bilic has received a lot of criticism about how his side faired in the qualifying stages and, with this summers tournament being his last, some feel he will not be able to motivate a side that knows they will be under new leadership next year.</p>
<p>The old guard though are ready to step up to what could be their final challenge, and with stars like Luka Modric and Darijo Srna ready to fight for the cause, Croatia have enough ability to cause a shock upset and get through the group stage.</p>
<p>The loss of Ivica Olic is a major loss to the side’s firepower but Everton’s Nikica Jelavic is more then capable of picking up the slack.</p>
<p> </p>
<br />
<p style="text-align: center;"> <img src="/images/blog/JelavicCroatia.jpg" alt="" width="409" height="276" /></p>
<br />
<p> </p>
<p><strong>WFD Predicted Starting XI: </strong>4-4-2</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">Pletikosa</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">Corluka <span lang="EN-US">- </span>Vida <span lang="EN-US">- </span>Simunic <span lang="EN-US">- </span>Pranjic</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">Srna <span lang="EN-US">- </span>Modric <span lang="EN-US">- </span>Dujmovic <span lang="EN-US">- </span>Rakitic</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">Jelavic <span lang="EN-US">- </span>Mandzukic</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></p>
<p><strong>WFD predicted group finish:</strong> 3rd</p>
<strong>Croatia Group Schedule: </strong>(All times local)<strong><br /></strong>
<p><strong>Match 1: </strong>June 10 v Republic of Ireland - Municipal Stadium, Poznan (20:45)</p>
<p><strong>Match 2: </strong>June 14 v Italy - Municipal Stadium, Poznan (18:00)<strong><br /></strong></p>
<p><strong>Match 3: </strong>June 18 v Spain - PGE Arena, Gdansk (20:45)</p>
<p> </p>
<br />
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
WFD Staff
2012-06-04T17:25:00Z
Euro 2012 Preview: Municipal Stadium, Poznan
WFD Staff
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Euro-2012-Preview:-Municipal-Stadium,-Poznan/-695951329886873477.html
2012-06-04T17:15:00Z
2012-06-04T17:15:00Z
<strong> </strong><br /><br /><strong><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></strong><strong>Capacity:</strong> <span lang="EN-US"></span><span lang="EN-US">43,269<br /></span><span lang="EN-US"><br /></span>
<p>The home of Lech and Warta Poznan, City Stadium is the birthplace of the famous goal celebration that Manchester City fans have made their own at the Etihad Stadium.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/blog/Poznan2.JPG" alt="" width="270" height="203" /></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"> </p>
<p>It’s the only stadium in the tournament to have a fully retractable roof and that combined with the unique atmosphere that could easily be adopted by Europe’s nosiest fans will create a bubbling atmosphere for fans and onlookers to enjoy.</p>
<p>Situated on the outskirts of Poznan the stadium also is home to the two biggest screens in Poland, each made up of 120 smaller LED screens.</p>
<br /><img src="/images/blog/Poznan3.jpg" alt="" width="301" height="200" /><br /><br /><strong><br />Games: </strong>(All times are local)<br />Republic of Ireland v Croatia June 10th (20:45)<br />Italy v Croatia June 14th (18:00)<br />Italy v Republic of Ireland June 18th (20:45)<br /> <br /><br /><br />
WFD Staff
2012-06-04T17:15:00Z
Euro 2012 Preview: Republic of Ireland
WFD Staff
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Euro-2012-Preview:-Republic-of-Ireland/519640845373866823.html
2012-06-01T16:24:00Z
2012-06-01T16:24:00Z
<p><strong>How they qualified: </strong>Finished 2nd in European Qualifying Group B; defeated Estonia 5-1 on aggregate in playoff.</p>
<p><strong>Team Base: </strong>Sopot<strong> </strong></p>
<p><strong><br /></strong></p>
<p>We all know about the luck of the Irish, but Giovanni Trapattoni may need more then just luck to get his Republic of Ireland side out of a difficult group C and into the competitions quarterfinals.</p>
<p>Talisman Robbie Keane has had an indifferent start to the MLS season but he always seems to be able to produce the goods when pulling on the colours of his national side. The LA Galaxy striker scored seven goals in the 11 qualifying games he played in which was almost half the total goal tally of the team.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/blog/Robbie.Keane.jpg" alt="" /></p>
<p>Alongside him up front will be either Kevin Doyle, of Wolverhampton Wanderers, or West Bromwich Albion’s Shane Long. Long has had a positive first season in the Premiership with the Baggies but injuries and the form of Peter Odewingie and Mark Antoine-Fortune have prevented the former Reading player from securing a place in the starting eleven, while Doyle has struggled to find goals or service in a very shoddy Wolves side.</p>
<p>The reliance on Keane to be the goal provider could hinder an ageing Irish squad while veterans Shay Given and Richard Dunne will be called on heavily to hold the defensive line.</p>
<p>A win in their opening game against Croatia will give them a fighting chance, but Ireland more then likely be on the first plane home after the group stages.</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>WFD Predicted Starting XI: </strong>4-4-2</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US">Given</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US">O’Shea - </span><span lang="EN-US">Dunne - </span><span lang="EN-US">St Ledger - </span><span lang="EN-US">Ward</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US">McGready - </span><span lang="EN-US">Whelan - </span><span lang="EN-US">Andrews - </span><span lang="EN-US">Duff</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US">Doyle - </span><span lang="EN-US">Keane</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></p>
<p><strong>WFD predicted group finish:</strong> 4th</p>
<strong>Republic of Ireland Group Schedule: </strong>(All times local)<strong><br /></strong>
<p><strong>Match 1: </strong>June 10 v Croatia - Municipal Stadium, Poznan (20:45)</p>
<p><strong>Match 2: </strong>June 14 v Spain - PGE Arena, Gdansk (20:45)<strong><br /></strong></p>
<p><strong>Match 3: </strong>June 18 v Italy - Municipal Stadium, Poznan (20:45)</p>
<p> </p>
<br />
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
WFD Staff
2012-06-01T16:24:00Z
Euro 2012 Preview: Italy
WFD Staff
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Euro-2012-Preview:-Italy/-388054809038179423.html
2012-06-01T16:12:00Z
2012-06-01T16:12:00Z
<p><strong>How they qualified: </strong>Finished 1st in European Qualifying Group C</p>
<p><strong>Team Base: </strong>Krakow<strong><br /></strong></p>
<p> </p>
<p>There’s one important thing to remember about major international tournaments.</p>
<p>Never count out the Italians.</p>
<p>While another match fixing scandal begins to tear its way through Serie A Italy will find it difficult to hide from the media spotlight that will engulf them during this summer’s tournament.</p>
<p>The last time a major scandal hit Italy’s top flight though was 2006, a year when Italy went on to lift the World Cup in Germany, and many may underestimate the focus and ability of this Italian side because of the distraction of the media circus.</p>
<p>There have been casualties in the side because of it, with Domenico Criscito dumped out of Cesare Prandelli’s side, <img style="float: right;" src="/images/blog/Gianluigi-BUFFON.jpg" alt="" width="322" height="241" />while Gianluigi Buffon, the sides long term goalkeeper, is being investigated by the authorities after being implicated in the scandal too, although Buffon is still traveling with the side to Poland and the Ukraine.</p>
<p>There’s still enough quality in the Italy side to mount a realistic charge against any and all opposition and they could find their way out of the group with ease along with Spain.</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>WFD Predicted Starting XI: </strong>4-1-2-1-2</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US">Buffon</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US">Maggio - </span><span lang="EN-US">Barzagli - </span><span lang="EN-US">Chiellini - </span><span lang="EN-US">Balzaretti</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US">Pirlo</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US">Marchisio - </span><span lang="EN-US">De Rossi</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US">Motta</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US">Cassano - </span><span lang="EN-US">Balotelli</span></p>
<p> </p>
<br />
<p><strong>WFD predicted group finish:</strong> 2nd</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Italy Group Schedule: </strong>(All times local)<strong><br /></strong></p>
<p><strong>Match 1: </strong>June 10 v Spain - PGE Arena, Gdansk (18:00)</p>
<p><strong>Match 2: </strong>June 14 v Croatia - Municipal Stadium, Poznan (18:00)<strong><br /></strong></p>
<p><strong>Match 3: </strong>June 18 v Republic of Ireland - Municipal Stadium, Poznan (20:45)</p>
<p> </p>
<br />
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
WFD Staff
2012-06-01T16:12:00Z
Euro 2012 Preview: PGE Arena, Gdansk
WFD Staff
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Euro-2012-Preview:-PGE-Arena,-Gdansk/-882275088855648014.html
2012-06-01T15:36:00Z
2012-06-01T15:36:00Z
<strong> </strong><br /><br /><strong><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></strong><strong>Capacity:</strong> <span lang="EN-US"></span><span lang="EN-US">43,615<br /><br /></span>
<p>Based in northern Poland and home to Lechia Gdansk the PGE arena is a shrine to the regions natural resources.</p>
<p>Decorated in amber plating on its outer shell to show the vast natural copper mines scattered across the region, the inside of the ground it boasts 40 VIP boxes, a pub, a restaurant and some of the steepest stands in the world, that help provide some of the finest viewing available in football.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/blog/PGE2.jpg" alt="" /></p>
<p> </p>
<p>The ground was opened in 2011 and has hosted a number of games for both Lechia Gadansk and the national side, including Poland v Germany.</p>
<br /><span lang="EN-US"><br /></span><br /><br /><strong><br />Games: </strong>(All times are local)<br /><br />Spain v Italy June 10th (18:00)<br />Spain v Republic of Ireland June 14th (20:45)<br />Croatia v Spain June 18th (20:45)<br /> <br /> Quarterfinal #2<br /> Winner of Group B v Runner-up of Group A June 22nd (20:45)<br /><br /><br /><br />
WFD Staff
2012-06-01T15:36:00Z
Rodgers is a 'gamble' for Liverpool
Thomas Rooney
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Rodgers-is-a-gamble-for-Liverpool/-569514288874598301.html
2012-06-01T14:41:00Z
2012-06-01T14:41:00Z
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">
<p>Pundits at <a href="http://www.casinosmobile.com/">CasinosMobile.com</a> note how Rodgers led Swansea to an extremely impressive 11<sup>th</sup> position in their first ever Premier League season but is poised to sign a three-year deal at Anfield.</p>
<p>The former Liverpool defender said: "It's a great appointment for him and the biggest gamble the club have taken in a long time,"</p>
<p>"Liverpool supporters will give him a chance. They will give him time. But if they don't look like finishing anywhere near top four, what do the owners do?" he added.</p>
<p>Rodgers has had a fantastic spell at The Swans and has earned a lot of plaudits for the way in which he gets his teams plays football.</p>
<p>It hasn’t always been a success story for the 39-year-old though, who had indifferent spells at both Watford and Reading before taking charge at the Liberty Stadium.</p>
<p>When asked about his qualities as a manager Lawrenson said: "Rodgers has done a great job at Swansea, everyone loves the way they play their football.”</p>
<p>"The chance for Brendan to manage a club which is in the top 10 in the country was too much to resist. It's a different challenge for him, the club will be expected to win every game.”</p>
<p><a href="http://www.thisissouthwales.co.uk/Rodgers-hails-educated-Swansea-Liverpool/story-16240850-detail/story.html">Liverpool supporters</a> will be wary of appointing a manager that has impressed at a smaller club after Roy Hodgson’s appointment in 2010.</p>
<p>Hodgson led Fulham to a Europa League final and a top ten finish but struggled to cope with the pressure that comes with the job at the five time European Champions.</p>
<p>The BBC Sport pundit fears that the former Reading boss could struggle to deal with the expectations of being at such a big club and getting the best out of players that cost a lot of money.</p>
<p>"Liverpool spent an awful lot of money last season, there's no doubt they overspent. It's a big job for Rodgers because he'll be responsible for everything as there's no director of football.” Added the 54-year-old.</p>
<p>Lawrenson is confident that Swansea will bounce back from the disappointment of losing their manager should he sign a contract at the Merseyside Reds.</p>
<p>"Swansea have lost managers before, Roberto Martinez went to Wigan. They're a very good and well-run football club." He said.</p>
<p>The Swans took four points from Kenny Dalglish’s Liverpool side this campaign, including a 1-0 victory on the final day of the season.</p>
</span>
Thomas Rooney
2012-06-01T14:41:00Z
Martinez to stay at Wigan
Thomas Rooney
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Martinez-to-stay-at-Wigan/-169921819792554029.html
2012-06-01T14:38:00Z
2012-06-01T14:38:00Z
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">
<p>Those placing <a href="http://www.noveltybetting.com/football-betting.html">novelty football bet<strong>s</strong></a> should note fans at the DW Stadium hopes of their manager staying would have only been boosted today as Brendan Rodgers looks set to join Liverpool and Norwich’s Paul Lambert seems to be on his way to Aston Villa.</p>
<p>Martinez returned from his holiday in Barbados with the promise of investment for players from his Chairman.</p>
<p>Whelan said: "We're just so pleased that he's staying with us for another season. We want Roberto to be happy at Wigan and we'll be aiming to make sure we do everything to help him.”</p>
<p>The former ex-Swansea manager guided Wigan to 15<sup>th</sup> place in the Premier League this campaign and took an incredible 23 points from the beginning of March which put them on top of the form table.</p>
<p>Whelan has always gone on record saying that his current manager will go on to a bigger club but he feels he needs to stay at the club for a few more seasons yet.</p>
<p>"We've discussed a lot of things and it was a productive afternoon. He's got two years left on his current contract and we will be looking to extend that. We've also agreed to build up the academy and the training facilities." He said.</p>
<p>The 38-year-old has been given permission to speak to Aston Villa about their vacant managers position after manager <a href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/18056282">Alex McLeish</a><a href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/18056282" target="_blank"></a> was sacked earlier in the month.</p>
<p>Whelan has said that he didn’t feel that a move to Villa Park was ever going to be the right move for him though: "He has had some talks with Villa but he's not going to go there. Villa are a fantastic club with great fans, but I never thought they were big enough for him.</p>
<p>"I've said all along that I never thought he would end up there, and, fortunately for us, that's how it has turned out.</p>
<p>Martinez has been at the DW Stadium for three years and has taken charge 127 games. He has won 34, drawn 36 and lost 57 in his time in charge.</p>
<p>The Wigan boss will now turn his attention into brining new faces to the club as he looks to secure their Premier League status again next season.</p>
</span>
Thomas Rooney
2012-06-01T14:38:00Z
Liver n' Onions: A step in the right direction?
Nash Larson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Liver-n-Onions:-A-step-in-the-right-direction/559127214327866301.html
2012-06-01T14:16:00Z
2012-06-01T14:16:00Z
<p><span>To say it's been a <span class="goog-spellcheck-word">topsy</span> <span class="goog-spellcheck-word">turvy</span> couple of weeks' for Liverpool <span class="goog-spellcheck-word">FC</span> would be a mammoth understatement. Having last week departed with club idol and current manager Kenny <span class="goog-spellcheck-word">Dalglish</span>, the new manger charade began with a fury. Names like </span>Roberto Martinez, Andre Villas-Boas, Louis van <span class="goog-spellcheck-word">Gaal</span>, Fabio <span class="goog-spellcheck-word">Capello</span> and Frank <span class="goog-spellcheck-word">de</span> Boer hit the ears of Liverpool fans eagerly awaiting a new appointment. This wait concluded Wednesday when Liverpool announced the appointment of their 18th manager in the clubs history, ex-Swansea Manager Brendan Rodgers. For me it's the antithesis of a climactic decision.Yes he deserves acclaim for guiding a newly promoted side to the eleventh spot, achieving this playing attractive football to boot, but is taking on the current mess that is Liverpool a job to much for the thirty-nine year old? Liverpool <span class="goog-spellcheck-word">FC</span> is in a hot mess at the moment, and the appointment of a big name like van <span class="goog-spellcheck-word">Gaal</span>, or <span class="goog-spellcheck-word">AVB</span> sparked hope, yet the set-up being implemented forced Liverpool down an alley with limited options. </p>
<p> A trio of footballing directors will oversee the players purchased based on how they will fit into the system. This leaves the manager to work strictly with the team, and utilize the players according to that philosophy. With a big name like <span class="goog-spellcheck-word">AVB</span> or say <span class="goog-spellcheck-word">de</span> Boer, that just won't work. Clash of ideals and falling out between manger and higher-ups is a familiar complication at <span class="goog-spellcheck-word">Anfield</span> as Rafa <span class="goog-spellcheck-word">Benitez</span> fell out with Rick Perry and his purchase of Robbie Keane. The appointment of Brendan Rodgers I fear was a last resort as the bigger names denied the position. According to a statement by Ian <span class="goog-spellcheck-word">Arye</span> on the Liverpool website, Rodgers was Liverpool's " first choice,"which I find highly suspect. For Rodgers the difficulty of getting current players, and any potential new signings to perform at their bast is key, after a lackluster season that saw the majority of the squad under perform. Looking at how new signings will be assessed by<span> "signing by committee type of procedure an 'analysis by committee'. It will be a whole range of people bringing together a whole range of skill-sets to go out and find and identify what we need and Brendan will have a big input in that." <span class="goog-spellcheck-word">Liverpoolfc</span>.<span class="goog-spellcheck-word">tv</span> </span></p>
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<p> Owner John Henry and <span class="goog-spellcheck-word">Fenway</span> Sports Group sent <span class="goog-spellcheck-word">Dalglish</span> packing after he guided Liverpool to an eighth place finish, four points behind club rivals <span class="goog-spellcheck-word">Everton</span>. Wholesale changes seem to be in the offing this summer for the <span class="goog-spellcheck-word">Merseyside</span> club, as the higher-ups look at last year's sub-par results and ponder solutions. The signings that <span class="goog-spellcheck-word">Dalglish</span> made with the help of Damien <span class="goog-spellcheck-word">Comollli</span>, now formally of Liverpool, did not pan out on the whole. Yet with the latest injury to Frank <span class="goog-spellcheck-word">Lampard</span> ahead of Euro 2012 sees Jordan Henderson make the England squad, joining four other Liverpool players on the roster….go figure. I guess this is the time to touch on it because a requires mentioning. Downing had a terrible season, Carroll came decent a month before the end of the season, Glen Johnson underperformed, and now Henderson strikes me as a stretch from the England Manager Roy <span class="goog-spellcheck-word">Hodgson</span>. The season that Liverpool had does not warrant having four players in the squad.</p>
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<p class="separator"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PXq8CTJxBwU/T8kUi-vrhCI/AAAAAAAAA0Y/2FU3Cb7jrVg/s1600/England+U21+v+France+U21+4C3JhVvJU6ml.jpeg"><img style="float: right;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PXq8CTJxBwU/T8kUi-vrhCI/AAAAAAAAA0Y/2FU3Cb7jrVg/s320/England+U21+v+France+U21+4C3JhVvJU6ml.jpeg" border="0" alt="" width="320" height="244" /></a></p>
<p>Now I want to take you into the <span class="goog-spellcheck-word">Oniony</span> side this piece, after all it is silly season. Reports have linked Liverpool with Barcelona's Ibrahim <span class="goog-spellcheck-word">Affellay</span> who could be available for around six million <span class="goog-spellcheck-word">Euro's</span>. What Liverpool need is sure up the Midfield and get some quality wingers. For me the player I want to see at <span class="goog-spellcheck-word">Anfield</span> next season is Adam Johnson. </p>
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<p>Surplus to requirement at Manchester City, Liverpool should be able to sign him for a decent price, which for under ten million pounds would be a snip for a player would could beat any fullback with his tricky and direct play. Judging on Brendan Rodgers style of play at Swansea, he likes playing the ball on the floor utilizing tricky wingers to open defenses. Both of the aforementioned players' would fit well into the system that he would like to implement. </p>
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Nash Larson
2012-06-01T14:16:00Z
Euro 2012 Preview: Group B
WFD Staff
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Euro-2012-Preview:-Group-B/-141730385551655759.html
2012-06-01T03:00:00Z
2012-06-01T03:00:00Z
<strong><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Netherlands<br /><br /><img src="/images/blog/NetherlandsCrest.jpg" alt="" width="199" height="171" /><br /></strong>
<p><strong>How they qualified: </strong>Finished 1st in European Qualifying Group E</p>
<p><strong>Team Base: </strong>Krakow</p>
<p>The Dutch come into this year’s tournament with a major point to prove to the footballing world.</p>
<p>After playing the villain in the 2010 World Cup final Holland’s reputation was dented and the image of total football was replaced with a hard nosed, hard playing efficient side that had the potential to play great football.</p>
<p>The qualifying group for the tournament was a dream for Bert Van Marwijk’s side as they averaged almost four goals a game, but conceding eight goals, including three to Hungary and three to Sweden, was a slight dark spot on a confident qualifying performance.<img style="float: right;" src="https://www.worldfootballdaily.com/images/blog/Mark-van-Bommel.jpg" alt="" width="258" height="153" /></p>
<p>The squad’s age has come into question recently with many wondering if the squad may have peeked in 2010 and its time to win a major tournament is gone. Mark Van Bommel is 35 and will surely be playing his last tournament in a Holland shirt while Joris Mathijsen at center back and Dirk Kuyt are both hovering in the wrong side of 30.</p>
<p>Their strength in depth has been questioned too and with Arjen Robben finishing the season on a rather depressing note, and Wesley Sneijder spending most of the year on the bench at Inter, the mentality of the squad’s key players could prove to be a factor.</p>
<p>They are still very much a contender to lift the trophy and quality emanates through the starting line-up. Robin Van Persie could well be the most inform forward not in a Madrid or Barcelona shirt this season and he will be a key to their success.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img src="https://www.worldfootballdaily.com/images/blog/robin_van_persie.jpeg" alt="" width="409" height="281" /></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><strong>WFD Predicted Starting XI: </strong>4-2-3-1</p>
<p> </p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US">Stekelenburg</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US">Van der Wiel </span>- <span lang="EN-US">Heitinga </span>- <span lang="EN-US">Mathijsen </span>- Bouma<span lang="EN-US"> </span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US"> </span><span lang="EN-US">Van Bommel </span>- <span lang="EN-US">De Jong</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US">Robben - </span><span lang="EN-US">Sneijder - </span><span lang="EN-US">Kuyt</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US">Van Persie</span></p>
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<p><strong>WFD predicted group finish: </strong>2nd</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>The Netherlands Group Schedule: </strong>(All times local)<strong><br /></strong></p>
<p><strong>Match 1: </strong>June 9 v Denmark - Metalist Stadium, Kharkiv (19:00)</p>
<p><strong>Match 2: </strong>June 13 v Germany - Metalist Stadium, Kharkiv (21:45)<strong><br /></strong></p>
<p><strong>Match 3: </strong>June 17 v Portugal - Metalist Stadium, Kharkiv (21:45)</p>
<br /><strong>Denmark<br /><br /><img src="/images/blog/DenmarkCrest.jpg" alt="" width="180" height="208" /><br /></strong>
<p><strong>How they qualified: </strong>Finished 1st in European Qualifying Group H</p>
<p><strong>Team Base: </strong>Kolobrzeg<strong><br /></strong></p>
<p>A tricky side to deal with, Denmark do have an outside chance of making their way out of the group of death and into the Euro 2012 quarterfinals.</p>
<p>There may not be enough magic in the air for the Euro 92 winners to pull off another shock and win the tournament, but this is a Danish side that finished above Portugal in the qualifying stages and handed them a 2-1 defeat in the groups final game.</p>
<p>They also came close to defeating Holland in their opening game of the 2010 World Cup and Morten Olsen is so encouraged by the new talent in the squad that he’s signed on to be the national team’s head coach until 2014.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img src="https://www.worldfootballdaily.com/images/blog/AggerDan.jpg" alt="" width="280" height="228" /></p>
<p>Thomas Sorensen’s absence in goal due to injury will cause a problem but Manchester United backup Anders Lindeguard will provide more then ample cover for the Stoke keeper while Liverpool’s Daniel Agger will look to anchor an experienced back-four.</p>
<p>Going forward Nikolas Bendtner will be looking to continue his international form that always seems to elude him at club level, while Ajax’s exciting young prospect Christian Eriksen will be using this tournament to prove himself against the continents best and catch the eye of Europe’s elite.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.worldfootballdaily.com/images/blog/BendtnerDen.jpg" alt="" /></p>
<p>Don’t count them out, a win against Portugal and a draw against Germany will see the Danish sitting pretty for a spot in the knockout round.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><strong>WFD Predicted Starting XI: </strong>4-2-1-3</p>
<p> </p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US">Lindeguard</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US"> </span><span lang="EN-US">Jacobsen </span>- <span lang="EN-US">Agger </span>- <span lang="EN-US">Bjelland </span>- <span lang="EN-US">S.Poulsen</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US">Kvist </span><span lang="EN-US">- Zimling</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US">Eriksen</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US">Rommedahl - </span><span lang="EN-US">Bendtner - </span><span lang="EN-US">Krohn-Dehil</span></p>
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<p><strong>WFD predicted group finish:</strong> 4th</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Denmark Group Schedule: </strong>(All times local)<strong><br /></strong></p>
<p><strong>Match 1: </strong>June 9 v Netherlands - Metalist Stadium, Kharkiv (19:00)</p>
<p><strong>Match 2: </strong>June 13 v Portugal - Arena Lviv, Lviv (19:00)<strong><br /></strong></p>
<p><strong>Match 3: </strong>June 17 v Germany - Arena Lviv, Lviv (21:45)</p>
<p> </p>
<strong>Germany<br /><br /><img src="/images/blog/GerCrest.jpg" alt="" width="212" height="163" /><br /></strong>
<p><strong>How they qualified: </strong>Finished 1st in European Qualifying Group A (Perfect Record)</p>
<p><strong>Team Base: </strong>Gdansk<strong><br /></strong></p>
<p>Arguably the strongest side going into the tournament, the runners up of the 2008 tournament are no longer considered a young plucky team filled with wonderkids. They’re now the real deal.</p>
<p>A fourth European Championship trophy is being predicted for Joachim Low’s side and few would bet against the firepower and quality they possess going forward, while a sturdy back four anchored by Phillip Lahm will prove a very difficult group to break down.</p>
<p> </p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img src="https://www.worldfootballdaily.com/images/blog/Phillip-Lahm.jpg" alt="" /></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"> </p>
<p>Old hand Miroslav Klose could have played for the host nation Poland, but German football is thanking its lucky stars (all three of them on the shirt) that the man of Polish decent chose not to, as he closes in on Gerd Muller’s international goal scoring record of 68 goals.</p>
<p>Talent runs through the squad and the strength in depth will be important in the later stages of the tournament as injuries and bookings take their toll.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.worldfootballdaily.com/images/blog/Miro-Klose.jpg" alt="" width="286" height="189" /></p>
<p>They’re favorites for a reason and few can look past one of the most exciting teams on the planet.</p>
<p> </p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><strong>WFD Predicted Starting XI: </strong>4-2-3-1</p>
<p> </p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US">Neuer</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US"> </span><span lang="EN-US">Boateng </span>- <span lang="EN-US">Hummels </span>- <span lang="EN-US">Badstuber </span>- <span lang="EN-US">Lahm</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US"> </span><span lang="EN-US">Schweinsteiger </span>- <span lang="EN-US">Khedira</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US">Muller - </span><span lang="EN-US">Ozil - </span><span lang="EN-US">Podolski</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US">Klose<br /></span></p>
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<p><strong>WFD predicted group finish:</strong> 1st</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Germany Group Schedule: </strong>(All times local)<strong><br /></strong></p>
<p><strong>Match 1: </strong>June 9 v Portugal - Arena Lviv, Lviv (21:45)</p>
<p><strong>Match 2: </strong>June 13 v Netherlands - Metalist Stadium, Kharkiv (21:45)<strong><br /></strong></p>
<p><strong>Match 3: </strong>June 17 v Denmark - Arena Lviv, Lviv (21:45)</p>
<br /><strong>Portugal<br /><br /><img src="/images/blog/PortugalCrest.jpg" alt="" width="215" height="215" /><br /><br /></strong>
<p><strong>How they qualified: </strong>Finished 2nd in European Qualifying Group H; defeated Bosnia and Herzegovina 6-2 on aggregate in playoff.</p>
<p><strong>Team Base: </strong>Opalencia<strong><br /></strong></p>
<p>The distraught finalists in 2004 on home soil, Portugal have had a chip on their shoulder for eight years. The new Holland of international football, Portugal are becoming known as the nearly men who always have the potential to win a major tournament but never quite live up to the hype.<img style="float: right;" src="https://www.worldfootballdaily.com/images/blog/CRon.jpg" alt="" width="240" height="175" /></p>
<p>One man that does live up to the hype however, is Cristiano Ronaldo. The self-proclaimed 10/10 Real Madrid star has had an incredible 2011/12 and if Portugal are to do anything this tournament, he will have to play a major part in their side.</p>
<p>Manchester United’s Nani and Porto’s Joao Moutinho will also be key figures to look out for in the Portugal attack, while Real Madrid’s Pepe and Fabio Coentrao will both have to step up their defensive duties as Portugal look to fight their way out of the group of death.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img src="https://www.worldfootballdaily.com/images/blog/Nani-port.jpg" alt="" /></p>
<p>Denmark defeated them in the qualifying stages of the tournament and Bosnia and Herzegovina almost pulled off a shock result in the playoffs, but with their backs against the wall, a thumping 6-2 victory at home over the eastern Europeans sent Paulo Bento’s men off to Poland and Ukraine.</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>WFD Predicted Starting XI: </strong>4-1-2-3</p>
<p> </p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US">Patricio</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US"> </span><span lang="EN-US">Pereira </span>- <span lang="EN-US">Pepe </span>- <span lang="EN-US">Alves </span>- <span lang="EN-US">Coentrao</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US">Veloso</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US">Meireles - </span><span lang="EN-US">Moutinho</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US">Ronaldo - </span><span lang="EN-US">Postiga - </span><span lang="EN-US">Nani</span></p>
<p><strong>WFD predicted group finish:</strong> 3rd</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Portugal Group Schedule: </strong>(All times local)<strong><br /></strong></p>
<p><strong>Match 1: </strong>June 9 v Germany - Arena Lviv, Lviv (21:45)</p>
<p><strong>Match 2: </strong>June 13 v Denmark - Arena Lviv, Lviv (19:00)<strong><br /></strong></p>
<p><strong>Match 3: </strong>June 17 v Netherlands - Metalist Stadium, Kharkiv (21:45)</p>
<br /><strong>Stadiums:<br /><br />Kharkiv Metalist Stadium</strong><strong><br /><br /><img src="/images/blog/Kharkiv1.jpg" alt="" width="295" height="181" /><br /><br />Capacity:</strong> <span lang="EN-US">38,633<br /><br /></span>
<p>Described as looking like a giant spider due to its external supporting pillars, the Metalist Stadium has been remodeled four times since it was first opened in 1926.</p>
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<p style="text-align: center;"><img src="https://www.worldfootballdaily.com/images/blog/Kharkiv2.jpg" alt="" width="405" height="270" /></p>
<p>Its most recent facelift included the addition of undersoil heating, a new pitch and an expansion in its capacity by around 6000 seats, all costing around $75m</p>
<p>Situated in the east of the city the stadium sits on the site of the Holy Spirit cemetery along with the Metalist City complex. Bored fans during the game will be able to go shopping in the stadium’s three-storey mall.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><img src="https://www.worldfootballdaily.com/images/blog/Kharkiv3.jpg" alt="" width="324" height="215" /></p>
<br /><strong><br />Games: </strong>(All times are local)<br /><br />Netherlands v Denmark June 9th (19:00)<br />Netherlands v Germany June 13th (21:45)<br />Portugal v Netherlands June 17th (21:45)<br /><br /><strong>Arena Lviv<br /><br /><img src="/images/blog/Lviv1.jpg" alt="" width="289" height="162" /><br /><br /></strong><strong> </strong><br /><br /><strong>Capacity:</strong> <span lang="EN-US">34,915</span><br /><span lang="EN-US"><br /></span>
<p>The tournament’s smallest stadium will play host to one of the biggest group games on June 9<sup>th</sup> when Portugal meet Germany in group B’s second match of the tournament.</p>
<p>The original Lviv arena hosted Ukraine’s first ever recorded match in 1894 and the stadium was opened with a bang when Marko Devic struck a last minute winner to lift a 10-man Ukraine side past Austria in November 2011.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"> <img src="https://www.worldfootballdaily.com/images/blog/Lviv2.jpg" alt="" width="354" height="264" /></p>
<p>Situated to the south of the city of Lviv, the Lviv Arena boasts some of the best views in a football stadium with its steep sides while a partially transparent roof holds in the crowd atmosphere while allowing the fans to bask in the summer sun.</p>
<p>The outside of the ground is a mixture of old and new Ukrainian architecture with a slight wave to the roof and crisscross markings on its side that look like a giant game of pickup sticks.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.worldfootballdaily.com/images/blog/Lviv3.jpg" alt="" width="290" height="165" /></p>
<br /><strong>Games: </strong>(All times are local)<br /><br />Germany v Portugal June 9th (21:45)<br />Denmark v Portugal June 13th (19:00)<br />Denmark v Germany June 17th (21:45)<br /><strong><br /></strong>
WFD Staff
2012-06-01T03:00:00Z
European Championships Prediction Contest
WFD Staff
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/European-Championships-Prediction-Contest/238459297590207458.html
2012-05-31T16:52:00Z
2012-05-31T16:52:00Z
You have the opportunity to win an official match ball from the European Championships by competing in World Football Daily's prediction competition. <br /><br />All you have to do is send us your picks to <strong><span id="OBJ_PREFIX_DWT83_com_zimbra_email" class="Object">show@worldfootballdaily.com</span></strong> displaying the 1st and 2nd place finishers in each group, then from there, filling out the tournament bracket from the quarterfinal all the way to the final. <br /><br />Don't forget to submit which player will score the final goal in the tournament (excluding penalty shootouts) and what minute the final was scored in as part of the tiebreaker. Connect with your inner Nostradamus to take home the official Tango 12 match ball. Remember, send your picks in to <span id="OBJ_PREFIX_DWT84_com_zimbra_email" class="Object"><strong>show@worldfootballdaily.com</strong>. Must be a premium member to win. <br /><br /><img src="/images/blog/Euro-2012-Wall-Chart_Web.jpg" alt="" width="462" height="328" /><br /><br />The bracket is as follows:<br /><br />Quarters<br />1) Winner of Group A v Runner-up of Group B<br />2) Winner of Group B v Runner-up of Group A<br />3) Winner of Group C v Runner-up of Group D<br />4) Winner of Group D v Runner-up of Group C<br /><br />Semis<br />1) Winner of Quarter 1 v Winner of Quarter 3<br />2) Winner of Quarter 2 v Winner of Quarter 4<br /><br />Final <br />Winner of Semi 1 v Winner of Semi 2<br /><br />If you're still confused here is an example of how you should submit your picks to <strong>show@worldfootballdaily.com.<br /><br /></strong>Group A<br />Russia<br />Poland<br /><br />Group B<br />Germany<br />Netherlands<br /><br />Group C<br />Spain<br />Italy<br /><br />Group D <br />France<br />England<br /><br />Quarterfinals<br />Russia v Netherlands - Netherlands<br /></span><span id="OBJ_PREFIX_DWT84_com_zimbra_email" class="Object">Germany v Poland - Germany</span><br /><span id="OBJ_PREFIX_DWT84_com_zimbra_email" class="Object"><br /></span><span id="OBJ_PREFIX_DWT84_com_zimbra_email" class="Object">Spain v England - Spain</span><br /><span id="OBJ_PREFIX_DWT84_com_zimbra_email" class="Object">France v Italy - Italy<br /><br />Semifinals<br />Netherlands v Spain - Spain<br />Germany v Italy - Germany<br /><br />Final<br />Spain v Germany - Spain<br /><br />Final goal scorer - Llorente 76'<br /><strong></strong></span>
WFD Staff
2012-05-31T16:52:00Z
Euro 2012 Preview: Portugal
WFD Staff
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Euro-2012-Preview:-Portugal/571134209733709069.html
2012-05-31T16:06:00Z
2012-05-31T16:06:00Z
<p><strong>How they qualified: </strong>Finished 2nd in European Qualifying Group H; defeated Bosnia and Herzegovina 6-2 on aggregate in playoff.</p>
<p><strong>Team Base: </strong>Opalencia<strong><br /></strong></p>
<p>The distraught finalists in 2004 on home soil, Portugal have had a chip on their shoulder for eight years. The new Holland of international football, Portugal are becoming known as the nearly men who always have the potential to win a major tournament but never quite live up to the hype.<img style="float: right;" src="/images/blog/CRon.jpg" alt="" width="240" height="175" /></p>
<p>One man that does live up to the hype however, is Cristiano Ronaldo. The self-proclaimed 10/10 Real Madrid star has had an incredible 2011/12 and if Portugal are to do anything this tournament, he will have to play a major part in their side.</p>
<p>Manchester United’s Nani and Porto’s Joao Moutinho will also be key figures to look out for in the Portugal attack, while Real Madrid’s Pepe and Fabio Coentrao will both have to step up their defensive duties as Portugal look to fight their way out of the group of death.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/blog/Nani-port.jpg" alt="" /></p>
<p>Denmark defeated them in the qualifying stages of the tournament and Bosnia and Herzegovina almost pulled off a shock result in the playoffs, but with their backs against the wall, a thumping 6-2 victory at home over the eastern Europeans sent Paulo Bento’s men off to Poland and Ukraine.</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>WFD Predicted Starting XI: </strong>4-1-2-3</p>
<p> </p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US">Patricio</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US"> </span><span lang="EN-US">Pereira </span>- <span lang="EN-US">Pepe </span>- <span lang="EN-US">Alves </span>- <span lang="EN-US">Coentrao</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US">Veloso</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US">Meireles - </span><span lang="EN-US">Moutinho</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US">Ronaldo - </span><span lang="EN-US">Postiga - </span><span lang="EN-US">Nani</span></p>
<p><strong>WFD predicted group finish:</strong> 3rd</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Portugal Group Schedule: </strong>(All times local)<strong><br /></strong></p>
<p><strong>Match 1: </strong>June 9 v Germany - Arena Lviv, Lviv (21:45)</p>
<p><strong>Match 2: </strong>June 13 v Denmark - Arena Lviv, Lviv (19:00)<strong><br /></strong></p>
<p><strong>Match 3: </strong>June 17 v Netherlands - Metalist Stadium, Kharkiv (21:45)</p>
<p> </p>
<br />
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
WFD Staff
2012-05-31T16:06:00Z
Euro 2012 Preview: Denmark
WFD Staff
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Euro-2012-Preview:-Denmark/444489731672023953.html
2012-05-31T16:03:00Z
2012-05-31T16:03:00Z
<p><strong>How they qualified: </strong>Finished 1st in European Qualifying Group H</p>
<p><strong>Team Base: </strong>Kolobrzeg<strong><br /></strong></p>
<p>A tricky side to deal with, Denmark do have an outside chance of making their way out of the group of death and into the Euro 2012 quarterfinals.</p>
<p>There may not be enough magic in the air for the Euro 92 winners to pull off another shock and win the tournament, but this is a Danish side that finished above Portugal in the qualifying stages and handed them a 2-1 defeat in the groups final game.</p>
<p>They also came close to defeating Holland in their opening game of the 2010 World Cup and Morten Olsen is so encouraged by the new talent in the squad that he’s signed on to be the national team’s head coach until 2014.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/blog/AggerDan.jpg" alt="" width="280" height="228" /></p>
<p>Thomas Sorensen’s absence in goal due to injury will cause a problem but Manchester United backup Anders Lindeguard will provide more then ample cover for the Stoke keeper while Liverpool’s Daniel Agger will look to anchor an experienced back-four.</p>
<p>Going forward Nikolas Bendtner will be looking to continue his international form that always seems to elude him at club level, while Ajax’s exciting young prospect Christian Eriksen will be using this tournament to prove himself against the continents best and catch the eye of Europe’s elite.</p>
<p><img src="/images/blog/BendtnerDen.jpg" alt="" /></p>
<p>Don’t count them out, a win against Portugal and a draw against Germany will see the Danish sitting pretty for a spot in the knockout round.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><strong>WFD Predicted Starting XI: </strong>4-2-1-3</p>
<p> </p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US">Lindeguard</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US"> </span><span lang="EN-US">Jacobsen </span>- <span lang="EN-US">Agger </span>- <span lang="EN-US">Bjelland </span>- <span lang="EN-US">S.Poulsen</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US">Kvist </span><span lang="EN-US">- Zimling</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US">Eriksen</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US">Rommedahl - </span><span lang="EN-US">Bendtner - </span><span lang="EN-US">Krohn-Dehil</span></p>
<br />
<p><strong>WFD predicted group finish:</strong> 4th</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Denmark Group Schedule: </strong>(All times local)<strong><br /></strong></p>
<p><strong>Match 1: </strong>June 9 v Netherlands - Metalist Stadium, Kharkiv (19:00)</p>
<p><strong>Match 2: </strong>June 13 v Portugal - Arena Lviv, Lviv (19:00)<strong><br /></strong></p>
<p><strong>Match 3: </strong>June 17 v Germany - Arena Lviv, Lviv (21:45)</p>
<p> </p>
<br />
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
WFD Staff
2012-05-31T16:03:00Z
Euro 2012 Preview: Arena Lviv
WFD Staff
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Euro-2012-Preview:-Arena-Lviv/969756482541442116.html
2012-05-31T15:53:00Z
2012-05-31T15:53:00Z
<strong> </strong><br /><br /><strong><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></strong><strong>Capacity:</strong> <span lang="EN-US">34,915</span><br /><span lang="EN-US"><br /></span>
<p>The tournament’s smallest stadium will play host to one of the biggest group games on June 9<sup>th</sup> when Portugal meet Germany in group B’s second match of the tournament.</p>
<p>The original Lviv arena hosted Ukraine’s first ever recorded match in 1894 and the stadium was opened with a bang when Marko Devic struck a last minute winner to lift a 10-man Ukraine side past Austria in November 2011.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"> <img src="/images/blog/Lviv2.jpg" alt="" width="354" height="264" /></p>
<p>Situated to the south of the city of Lviv, the Lviv Arena boasts some of the best views in a football stadium with its steep sides while a partially transparent roof holds in the crowd atmosphere while allowing the fans to bask in the summer sun.</p>
<p>The outside of the ground is a mixture of old and new Ukrainian architecture with a slight wave to the roof and crisscross markings on its side that look like a giant game of pickup sticks.</p>
<p><img src="/images/blog/Lviv3.jpg" alt="" width="290" height="165" /></p>
<br /><br /><strong><br />Games: </strong>(All times are local)<br /><br />Germany v Portugal June 9th (21:45)<br />Denmark v Portugal June 13th (19:00)<br />Denmark v Germany June 17th (21:45)<br /><br /><br /><br />
WFD Staff
2012-05-31T15:53:00Z
Euro 2012 Preview: Germany
WFD Staff
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Euro-2012-Preview:-Germany/655230754523624614.html
2012-05-30T13:07:00Z
2012-05-30T13:07:00Z
<p><strong>How they qualified: </strong>Finished 1st in European Qualifying Group A (Perfect Record)</p>
<p><strong>Team Base: </strong>Gdansk<strong><br /></strong></p>
<p>Arguably the strongest side going into the tournament, the runners up of the 2008 tournament are no longer considered a young plucky team filled with wonderkids. They’re now the real deal.</p>
<p>A fourth European Championship trophy is being predicted for Joachim Low’s side and few would bet against the firepower and quality they possess going forward, while a sturdy back four anchored by Phillip Lahm will prove a very difficult group to break down.</p>
<p> </p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/blog/Phillip-Lahm.jpg" alt="" /></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"> </p>
<p>Old hand Miroslav Klose could have played for the host nation Poland, but German football is thanking its lucky stars (all three of them on the shirt) that the man of Polish decent chose not to, as he closes in on Gerd Muller’s international goal scoring record of 68 goals.</p>
<p>Talent runs through the squad and the strength in depth will be important in the later stages of the tournament as injuries and bookings take their toll.</p>
<p><img src="/images/blog/Miro-Klose.jpg" alt="" width="286" height="189" /></p>
<p>They’re favorites for a reason and few can look past one of the most exciting teams on the planet.</p>
<p> </p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><strong>WFD Predicted Starting XI: </strong>4-2-3-1</p>
<p> </p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US">Neuer</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US"> </span><span lang="EN-US">Boateng </span>- <span lang="EN-US">Hummels </span>- <span lang="EN-US">Badstuber </span>- <span lang="EN-US">Lahm</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US"> </span><span lang="EN-US">Schweinsteiger </span>- <span lang="EN-US">Khedira</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US">Muller - </span><span lang="EN-US">Ozil - </span><span lang="EN-US">Podolski</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US">Klose<br /></span></p>
<br />
<p><strong>WFD predicted group finish:</strong> 1st</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Germany Group Schedule: </strong>(All times local)<strong><br /></strong></p>
<p><strong>Match 1: </strong>June 9 v Portugal - Arena Lviv, Lviv (21:45)</p>
<p><strong>Match 2: </strong>June 13 v Netherlands - Metalist Stadium, Kharkiv (21:45)<strong><br /></strong></p>
<p><strong>Match 3: </strong>June 17 v Denmark - Arena Lviv, Lviv (21:45)</p>
<p> </p>
<br />
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
WFD Staff
2012-05-30T13:07:00Z
Euro 2012 Preview: Netherlands
WFD Staff
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Euro-2012-Preview:-Netherlands/131466976516846196.html
2012-05-30T13:03:00Z
2012-05-30T13:03:00Z
<p><strong>How they qualified: </strong>Finished 1st in European Qualifying Group E</p>
<p><strong>Team Base: </strong>Krakow</p>
<p>The Dutch come into this year’s tournament with a major point to prove to the footballing world.</p>
<p>After playing the villain in the 2010 World Cup final Holland’s reputation was dented and the image of total football was replaced with a hard nosed, hard playing efficient side that had the potential to play great football.</p>
<p>The qualifying group for the tournament was a dream for Bert Van Marwijk’s side as they averaged almost four goals a game, but conceding eight goals, including three to Hungary and three to Sweden, was a slight dark spot on a confident qualifying performance.<img style="float: right;" src="/images/blog/Mark-van-Bommel.jpg" alt="" width="258" height="153" /></p>
<p>The squad’s age has come into question recently with many wondering if the squad may have peeked in 2010 and its time to win a major tournament is gone. Mark Van Bommel is 35 and will surely be playing his last tournament in a Holland shirt while Joris Mathijsen at center back and Dirk Kuyt are both hovering in the wrong side of 30.</p>
<p>Their strength in depth has been questioned too and with Arjen Robben finishing the season on a rather depressing note, and Wesley Sneijder spending most of the year on the bench at Inter, the mentality of the squad’s key players could prove to be a factor.</p>
<p>They are still very much a contender to lift the trophy and quality emanates through the starting line-up. Robin Van Persie could well be the most inform forward not in a Madrid or Barcelona shirt this season and he will be a key to their success.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/blog/robin_van_persie.jpeg" alt="" width="409" height="281" /></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><strong>WFD Predicted Starting XI: </strong>4-2-3-1</p>
<p> </p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US">Stekelenburg</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US">Van der Wiel </span>- <span lang="EN-US">Heitinga </span>- <span lang="EN-US">Mathijsen </span>- Bouma<span lang="EN-US"> </span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US"> </span><span lang="EN-US">Van Bommel </span>- <span lang="EN-US">De Jong</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US">Robben - </span><span lang="EN-US">Sneijder - </span><span lang="EN-US">Kuyt</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US">Van Persie</span></p>
<br />
<p><strong>WFD predicted group finish: </strong>2nd</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>The Netherlands Group Schedule: </strong>(All times local)<strong><br /></strong></p>
<p><strong>Match 1: </strong>June 9 v Denmark - Metalist Stadium, Kharkiv (19:00)</p>
<p><strong>Match 2: </strong>June 13 v Germany - Metalist Stadium, Kharkiv (21:45)<strong><br /></strong></p>
<p><strong>Match 3: </strong>June 17 v Portugal - Metalist Stadium, Kharkiv (21:45)</p>
<p> </p>
<br />
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
WFD Staff
2012-05-30T13:03:00Z
Euro 2012 Preview: Kharkiv Metalist Stadium
WFD Staff
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Euro-2012-Preview:-Kharkiv-Metalist-Stadium/2434926133278303.html
2012-05-30T12:58:00Z
2012-05-30T12:58:00Z
<strong> </strong><br /><br /><strong><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></strong><strong>Capacity:</strong> <span lang="EN-US">38,633<br /><br /></span>
<p>Described as looking like a giant spider due to its external supporting pillars, the Metalist Stadium has been remodeled four times since it was first opened in 1926.</p>
<p> </p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/blog/Kharkiv2.jpg" alt="" width="405" height="270" /></p>
<p>Its most recent facelift included the addition of undersoil heating, a new pitch and an expansion in its capacity by around 6000 seats, all costing around $75m</p>
<p>Situated in the east of the city the stadium sits on the site of the Holy Spirit cemetery along with the Metalist City complex. Bored fans during the game will be able to go shopping in the stadium’s three-storey mall.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><img src="/images/blog/Kharkiv3.jpg" alt="" width="324" height="215" /></p>
<br /><strong><br />Games: </strong>(All times are local)<br /><br />Netherlands v Denmark June 9th (19:00)<br />Netherlands v Germany June 13th (21:45)<br />Portugal v Netherlands June 17th (21:45)<br /><br /><br /><br />
WFD Staff
2012-05-30T12:58:00Z
Euro 2012 Preview: Group A
WFD Staff
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Euro-2012-Preview:-Group-A/-740724891561349619.html
2012-05-30T03:00:00Z
2012-05-30T03:00:00Z
<strong>Poland</strong><br /><br /><img src="/images/blog/Poland.jpg" alt="" width="115" height="189" />
<p><strong>How they qualified: </strong>Host nation</p>
<p><strong>Team Base: </strong>Warsaw</p>
<p>The host nation come into the tournament with plenty of pressure on them thanks to some lackluster friendly results over the last 12 months.</p>
<p>The Poles went on a eight month losing streak under the tenure of Franciszek Smuda but while everyone else was battling through their qualifying groups, Poland managed to find their form, losing just once in their last eleven outings.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/blog/pol-szczesny.jpg" alt="" width="220" height="152" /></p>
<p>The home support will provide a major boost to Poland’s chances but their arsenal is built on more then just the plucky courage associated with weak host nations.</p>
<p>Arsenal’s Wojciech Szczesny provides an extremely save pair of hands in goal, while Borussia Dortmund star Robert Lewandowski smashed in 22 goals in Germany’s top flight and has proved himself to be one of the top marksmen in Europe.</p>
<p style="text-align: right;"><img src="/images/blog/RLewandoski.jpg" alt="" width="154" height="232" /></p>
<p>Poland have enough talent in their squad to get through a mediocre group, and with the support of the home fans behind them, WFD believes the host nation will be going to the quarterfinals.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>WFD Predicted Starting XI: </strong>4-2-3-1</p>
<p> </p>
<p style="text-align: center;">Sczcesny</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">Piszczek - Wasilewski - Perguis - Boenisch</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">Polanski - Murawski</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">Blaszczykowski - Obraniak - Rybus</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">Lewandowski</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"> </p>
<p><strong>WFD predicted group finish: </strong>2nd</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Poland Group Schedule: </strong>(All times local)<strong><br /></strong></p>
<p><strong>Match 1: </strong>June 8 v Greece - National Stadium, Warsaw (18:00)</p>
<p><strong>Match 2: </strong>June 12 v Russia - National Stadium, Warsaw (20:45)<strong><br /></strong></p>
<p><strong>Match 3: </strong>June 16 v Czech Republic - Municipal Stadium, Wroclaw (20:45)</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Greece</strong></p>
<img src="/images/blog/GreeceCrest.jpg" alt="" width="115" height="189" /><br />
<p> </p>
<p><strong>How they qualified: </strong>Finished 1st in European Qualifying Group F</p>
<p><strong> </strong></p>
<br />
<p><strong>Team Base: </strong>Jachranka</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The shock winners of Euro 2004 will not be underestimated again by Europe’s elite, but the likelihood of them pulling off the same feat again is a slim one.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><img style="float: right;" src="https://www.worldfootballdaily.com/images/blog/Fetfarzidis.jpg" alt="" width="242" height="203" /></p>
<p>Having taken over from Championship winning Otto Rehhagel, Fernando Santos is a manager who has shown he feels right at home in Greek football, having also managed AEK, PAOK and Panathinaikos before taking the national side job. </p>
<p>The Greeks come into the competition with a side filled with youth including 22-year-old Sotiris Ninis of Panathinaikos and the spritely winger Giannis Fetfatzidis who, at 21, can make a big impact coming off the bench.</p>
<p>Santos has tried to build on Greece’s traditionally stable defense while adding attacking flair, but we will have to wait and see if the changes made will work on the big stage.</p>
<p> </p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><strong><br /></strong></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><strong><br /></strong></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><strong>WFD Predicted Starting XI: </strong>4-3-3</p>
<p> </p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US">Karnezis</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US"> </span><span lang="EN-US">Torosidis </span>- <span lang="EN-US">Papastathopoulos</span> <span lang="EN-US"> </span>- <span lang="EN-US">A. Popadopoulos </span>- <span lang="EN-US">Holebas</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US">Ninis - </span><span lang="EN-US">Katsouranis - </span><span lang="EN-US">Karagounis</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US">Samaras - </span><span lang="EN-US">Gekas - </span><span lang="EN-US">Salpigidis</span></p>
<br />
<p><strong>WFD predicted group finish: </strong>4th</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Greece Group Schedule: </strong>(All times local)<strong><br /></strong></p>
<p><strong>Match 1: </strong>June 8 v Poland - National Stadium, Warsaw (18:00)</p>
<p><strong>Match 2: </strong>June 12 v Czech Republic - Municipal Stadium, Wroclaw (18:00)<strong><br /></strong></p>
<strong>Match 3: </strong>June 16 v Russia - National Stadium, Warsaw (20:45)<br /><br /><br /><strong>Russia</strong><br /><img src="/images/blog/RussiaCrest.jpg" alt="" width="115" height="186" /><br />
<p><strong>How they qualified: </strong>Finished 1st in European Qualifying Group B</p>
<p><strong>Team Base: </strong>Warsaw</p>
<p>The surprise package in 2008, Russia thrilled neutrals with some fine attacking football on the way to the tournament’s semifinals before losing to the eventual winners Spain.</p>
<p>Four years on and the Russians are still an unknown and unpredictable quantity to many with Dick Advocaat’s side looking to field an experienced first eleven with youthful backups harvested from Zenit St Petersburg’s Championship winning side.</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img src="https://www.worldfootballdaily.com/images/blog/Alan-Dzagoev.jpg" alt="" width="285" height="214" /></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"> </p>
<p style="text-align: center;"> </p>
<p>The bright spark in their predicted starting 11 is Alan Dzagoev, CSKA Moscow’s 21-year-old left midfielder.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"> </p>
<p>If Andrei Arshavin fails to produce the goods this summer, as many still feel the Arsenal flop is still carrying a little extra weight and lacking in enthusiasm, Dzagoev will be a player who many will look to fill the void left on the pitch.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><img src="https://www.worldfootballdaily.com/images/blog/arshavin276.jpg" alt="" width="222" height="160" /></p>
<p> </p>
<p>Russia still have strength and experience and should still be favorites to top the group.</p>
<p> </p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><strong>WFD Predicted Starting XI: </strong>4-2-1-2-1</p>
<p> </p>
<p style="text-align: center;">Akinfeev</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US">Anyukov</span> - <span lang="EN-US">Nababkin</span> - <span lang="EN-US">Ignashevich </span>- <span lang="EN-US">Zhirkov</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US">Denisov</span>- <span lang="EN-US">Zyryanov</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US">Shirokov</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US">Dzagoev - </span><span lang="EN-US">Arshavin</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US">Kerzhakov</span></p>
<br />
<p><strong>WFD predicted group finish: </strong>1st</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Russia Group Schedule: </strong>(All times local)<strong><br /></strong></p>
<p><strong>Match 1: </strong>June 8 v Czech Republic - Municipal Stadium, Wroclaw (20:45)</p>
<p><strong>Match 2: </strong>June 12 v Poland - National Stadium, Warsaw (20:45)<strong><br /></strong></p>
<p><strong>Match 3: </strong>June 16 v Greece - National Stadium, Warsaw (20:45)</p>
<p> </p>
<strong>Czech Republic<br /><img src="/images/blog/Czechs.jpg" alt="" width="202" height="186" /><br /></strong>
<p><strong>How they qualified: </strong>Finished 2nd in European Qualifying Group I; defeated Montenegro 3-0 on aggregate in playoff</p>
<p><strong>Team Base: </strong>Wroclaw</p>
<br />
<p>A rich history or European Championship success may not be enough to guide Michal Bilek’s side through the group stages of this years tournament.</p>
<p>Semifinalists in 2004 and runners up in 1996 the Czech sides of yester year have had plenty of talent, but the likes of Jan Koller, Pavel Nedved and Karel Poborsky have never truly been replaced with players of similar quality.<img style="float: right;" src="https://www.worldfootballdaily.com/images/blog/MilanBarosCzech.jpg" alt="" width="203" height="154" /></p>
<p>The Czechs have struggled to find goals and were the second worst of the sides forced to qualify through the playoffs, with Michal Kadlec finishing as the squads top scorer with four goals from the left-back position.</p>
<p>Milan Baros is likely to start as the lone man up front, but the former Liverpool striker has been described as playing ‘like he’s been around forever’, a tag which sums up the 30-year-old’s productivity over the last 24 months.</p>
<p>Thomas Rosicky had a strong finish to his season with Arsenal while Petr Cech was the hero in Munich as Chelsea lifted the Champions League trophy, but even they may not be enough to drag their side through to the knockout stages of this years tournament.</p>
<p> </p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img src="https://www.worldfootballdaily.com/images/blog/RosickyCzech.jpg" alt="" width="328" height="215" /></p>
<br />
<p> </p>
<p><strong>WFD Predicted Starting XI: </strong>4-2-3-1</p>
<p> </p>
<p style="text-align: center;">Cech</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">Selassie - Hubnik - Sivok - Kalec</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">Jiracek - Hubschman</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">Plasil - Rosicky - Rezek</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">Baros</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"> </p>
<p><strong>WFD predicted group finish: </strong>3rd</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Czech Republic Group Schedule: </strong>(All times local)<strong><br /></strong></p>
<p><strong>Match 1: </strong>June 8 v Russia - Municipal Stadium, Wroclaw (20:45)</p>
<p><strong>Match 2: </strong>June 12 v Greece - Municipal Stadium, Wroclaw (18:00)<strong><br /></strong></p>
<p><strong>Match 3: </strong>June 16 v Poland - Municipal Stadium, Wroclaw (20:45)</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Stadiums</strong></p>
<p><strong><br />Warsaw National Stadium</strong></p>
<p><strong><img src="/images/blog/Warsaw1.jpg" alt="" width="207" height="151" /></strong></p>
<strong>Capacity:</strong> 58,145<br /><strong><br />Games: </strong>(All times are local)<br />Poland v Greece June 8th (18:00)<br />Poland v Russia June 12th (20:45)<br />Greece v Russia June 16th (20:45)<br /><br />Quarterfinal 1 - Winner of Group A v Runner-up of Group B June 21 (20:45)<br /><br />Semi-final 2 - Winner of Quarterfinal 2 v Winner of Quarterfinal 4 June 28 (20:45)<br /><br /><br />
<p>The national stadium for Poland will host five games this summer includi<img style="float: right;" src="https://www.worldfootballdaily.com/images/blog/Warsaw2.jpg" alt="" width="263" height="175" />ng the tournament’s opening game on June 8<sup>th</sup>.</p>
<p>Building work began back in 2008 and the ground was officially opened on January 29<sup>th</sup> of 2012. </p>
<p>Situated on the bank of the Vistula River that runs through the nation’s capital, Warsaw stadium is close to the center of the busy city.</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p>The defining feature of the ground is the unique PVC roof that unfolds from a nest suspended on a needle above the center of the pitch. The roof is retractable and will provide shelter from any freak summer showers.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img src="https://www.worldfootballdaily.com/images/blog/Warsaw3.jpg" alt="" width="331" height="204" /></p>
<br /><strong><br />Wroclaw Municipal Stadium<br /><br /></strong><img src="/images/blog/Wroclaw1.jpg" alt="" width="271" height="165" /><br /><br /><strong> </strong><br /><br /><strong><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></strong><strong>Capacity:</strong> 42,771<br /><strong><br />Games: </strong>(All times are local)<br /><br />Russia v Czech Republic June 8th (20:45)<br />Greece v Czech Republic June 12th (18:00)<br />Czech Republic v Poland June 16th (20:45)<br /><br /><br />
<p>With a design inspired by Chinese lanterns the Municipal Stadium in Wroclaw will be used in just the three group games for this summers tournament.</p>
<p>Situated on the northeastern outskirts of the city, the stadium sits next to the Sleza River and has great links into the city thanks to a new tramline to help fans get to and from the ground easily.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.worldfootballdaily.com/images/blog/wroclaw2.jpg" alt="" width="419" height="280" /></p>
The venue was officially opened with a George Michael concert in September 2011 and has been built as part of a complex that includes a conference halls, a fitness center and a casino<br />
WFD Staff
2012-05-30T03:00:00Z
Euro 2012 Preview: Greece
WFD Staff
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Euro-2012-Preview:-Greece/689617661459691367.html
2012-05-29T15:04:00Z
2012-05-29T15:04:00Z
<p><strong>How they qualified: </strong>Finished 1st in European Qualifying Group F</p>
<p><strong> </strong></p>
<br />
<p><strong>Team Base: </strong>Jachranka</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The shock winners of Euro 2004 will not be underestimated again by Europe’s elite, but the likelihood of them pulling off the same feat again is a slim one.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><img style="float: right;" src="/images/blog/Fetfarzidis.jpg" alt="" width="242" height="203" /></p>
<p>Having taken over from Championship winning Otto Rehhagel, Fernando Santos is a manager who has shown he feels right at home in Greek football, having also managed AEK, PAOK and Panathinaikos before taking the national side job. </p>
<p>The Greeks come into the competition with a side filled with youth including 22-year-old Sotiris Ninis of Panathinaikos and the spritely winger Giannis Fetfatzidis who, at 21, can make a big impact coming off the bench.</p>
<p>Santos has tried to build on Greece’s traditionally stable defense while adding attacking flair, but we will have to wait and see if the changes made will work on the big stage.</p>
<p> </p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><strong><br /></strong></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><strong><br /></strong></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><strong>WFD Predicted Starting XI: </strong>4-3-3</p>
<p> </p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US">Karnezis</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US"> </span><span lang="EN-US">Torosidis </span>- <span lang="EN-US">Papastathopoulos</span> <span lang="EN-US"> </span>- <span lang="EN-US">A. Popadopoulos </span>- <span lang="EN-US">Holebas</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US">Ninis - </span><span lang="EN-US">Katsouranis - </span><span lang="EN-US">Karagounis</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US">Samaras - </span><span lang="EN-US">Gekas - </span><span lang="EN-US">Salpigidis</span></p>
<br />
<p><strong>WFD predicted group finish: </strong>4th</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Greece Group Schedule: </strong>(All times local)<strong><br /></strong></p>
<p><strong>Match 1: </strong>June 8 v Poland - National Stadium, Warsaw (18:00)</p>
<p><strong>Match 2: </strong>June 12 v Czech Republic - Municipal Stadium, Wroclaw (18:00)<strong><br /></strong></p>
<p><strong>Match 3: </strong>June 16 v Russia - National Stadium, Warsaw (20:45)</p>
<p> </p>
<br />
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
WFD Staff
2012-05-29T15:04:00Z
Euro 2012 Preview: Russia
WFD Staff
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Euro-2012-Preview:-Russia/-346920666499531914.html
2012-05-29T14:49:00Z
2012-05-29T14:49:00Z
<p><strong>How they qualified: </strong>Finished 1st in European Qualifying Group B</p>
<p><strong>Team Base: </strong>Warsaw</p>
<p>The surprise package in 2008, Russia thrilled neutrals with some fine attacking football on the way to the tournament’s semifinals before losing to the eventual winners Spain.</p>
<p>Four years on and the Russians are still an unknown and unpredictable quantity to many with Dick Advocaat’s side looking to field an experienced first eleven with youthful backups harvested from Zenit St Petersburg’s Championship winning side.</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/blog/Alan-Dzagoev.jpg" alt="" width="285" height="214" /></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"> </p>
<p style="text-align: center;"> </p>
<p>The bright spark in their predicted starting 11 is Alan Dzagoev, CSKA Moscow’s 21-year-old left midfielder.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"> </p>
<p>If Andrei Arshavin fails to produce the goods this summer, as many still feel the Arsenal flop is still carrying a little extra weight and lacking in enthusiasm, Dzagoev will be a player who many will look to fill the void left on the pitch.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><img src="/images/blog/arshavin276.jpg" alt="" width="222" height="160" /></p>
<p> </p>
<p>Russia still have strength and experience and should still be favorites to top the group.</p>
<p> </p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><strong>WFD Predicted Starting XI: </strong>4-2-1-2-1</p>
<p> </p>
<p style="text-align: center;">Akinfeev</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US">Anyukov</span> - <span lang="EN-US">Nababkin</span> - <span lang="EN-US">Ignashevich </span>- <span lang="EN-US">Zhirkov</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US">Denisov</span>- <span lang="EN-US">Zyryanov</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US">Shirokov</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US">Dzagoev - </span><span lang="EN-US">Arshavin</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US">Kerzhakov</span></p>
<br />
<p><strong>WFD predicted group finish: </strong>1st</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Russia Group Schedule: </strong>(All times local)<strong><br /></strong></p>
<p><strong>Match 1: </strong>June 8 v Czech Republic - Municipal Stadium, Wroclaw (20:45)</p>
<p><strong>Match 2: </strong>June 12 v Poland - National Stadium, Warsaw (20:45)<strong><br /></strong></p>
<p><strong>Match 3: </strong>June 16 v Greece - National Stadium, Warsaw (20:45)</p>
<p> </p>
<br />
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
WFD Staff
2012-05-29T14:49:00Z
Euro 2012 Preview: Wroclaw Municipal Stadium
WFD Staff
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Euro-2012-Preview:-Wroclaw-Municipal-Stadium/-278296111036029118.html
2012-05-29T14:46:00Z
2012-05-29T14:46:00Z
<strong></strong><br /><br /><strong><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></strong><strong>Capacity:</strong> 42,771<br /><strong><br />Games: </strong>(All times are local)<br /><br />Russia v Czech Republic June 8th (20:45)<br />Greece v Czech Republic June 12th (18:00)<br />Czech Republic v Poland June 16th (20:45)<br /><br /><br />
<p>With a design inspired by Chinese lanterns the Municipal Stadium in Wroclaw will be used in just the three group games for this summers tournament.</p>
<p>Situated on the northeastern outskirts of the city, the stadium sits next to the Sleza River and has great links into the city thanks to a new tramline to help fans get to and from the ground easily.</p>
<p><img src="/images/blog/wroclaw2.jpg" alt="" width="419" height="280" /></p>
<p>The venue was officially opened with a George Michael concert in September 2011 and has been built as part of a complex that includes a conference halls, a fitness center and a casino</p>
WFD Staff
2012-05-29T14:46:00Z
Carroll was 'Excellent'
Thomas Rooney
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Carroll-was-Excellent/903311396790439515.html
2012-05-29T14:45:00Z
2012-05-29T14:45:00Z
<p>Those looking at <a href="http://euro2012onlinebetting.com/euro-2012-odds/">euro2012onlinebetting.com/euro-2012-odds</a> note how Taylor said that he thinks Carroll should be in the starting eleven for the first match of Euro 2012 against France in the absence of suspended Wayne Rooney: "On that performance, especially without Rooney, I would include him in my 11 for the first game."</p>
<p>He then added: "His touch was excellent - he was bringing people into play and he was winning a number of balls in the air when they came."</p>
<p>The Liverpool striker seemed to link up well with Ashley Young who was the player on the score sheet on Saturday but Taylor expects a much different side to step out at Wembley against Belgium this weekend in what is the final match before Euro 2012 for Roy Hodgson’s squad.</p>
<p>"What we saw, if we compare it to a club situation, was the England reserve team taking on Norway, who are not an easy side to deal with here in Oslo. Some of the players who were playing are not even going to be going to the Euros. I think we will see those changes in the game against Belgium” he said.</p>
<p>The 67-year-old believes that appointing Hodgson so close before Euro 2012 could play into England’s favour as it lowered the expectation. Those assessing <a href="http://euro2012onlinebetting.com/euro-2012-free-bets/">euro2012onlinebetting.com/euro-2012-free-bets</a> also thinks that the players may work better with the pressure slightly off them.</p>
<p>“I think the lack of expectancy is actually good for the English players," he said.</p>
<p>Taylor then added:"I wouldn't call it excuses - but if we don't do well, whose fault it is it? Well - the FA's for the late manager. I’m not being cynical, but that actually helps a little bit in terms of taking the pressure off the players.</p>
<p>The ex-Watford manager was asked what he thought The Three Lions are capable of doing into he tournament and what they should be targeting: "If we can get out of the group and go into the quarter-final stage after what's happened at such late notice with the England set-up - that will merit an achievement."</p>
Thomas Rooney
2012-05-29T14:45:00Z
Euro 2012 Preview: Czech Republic
WFD Staff
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Euro-2012-Preview:-Czech-Republic/-513492497913685811.html
2012-05-28T13:42:00Z
2012-05-28T13:42:00Z
<p><strong>How they qualified: </strong>Finished 2nd in European Qualifying Group I; defeated Montenegro 3-0 on aggregate in playoff</p>
<p><strong>Team Base: </strong>Wroclaw</p>
<br />
<p>A rich history or European Championship success may not be enough to guide Michal Bilek’s side through the group stages of this years tournament.</p>
<p>Semifinalists in 2004 and runners up in 1996 the Czech sides of yester year have had plenty of talent, but the likes of Jan Koller, Pavel Nedved and Karel Poborsky have never truly been replaced with players of similar quality.<img style="float: right;" src="/images/blog/MilanBarosCzech.jpg" alt="" width="203" height="154" /></p>
<p>The Czechs have struggled to find goals and were the second worst of the sides forced to qualify through the playoffs, with Michal Kadlec finishing as the squads top scorer with four goals from the left-back position.</p>
<p>Milan Baros is likely to start as the lone man up front, but the former Liverpool striker has been described as playing ‘like he’s been around forever’, a tag which sums up the 30-year-old’s productivity over the last 24 months.</p>
<p>Thomas Rosicky had a strong finish to his season with Arsenal while Petr Cech was the hero in Munich as Chelsea lifted the Champions League trophy, but even they may not be enough to drag their side through to the knockout stages of this years tournament.</p>
<p> </p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/blog/RosickyCzech.jpg" alt="" width="328" height="215" /></p>
<br />
<p> </p>
<p><strong>WFD Predicted Starting XI: </strong>4-2-3-1</p>
<p> </p>
<p style="text-align: center;">Cech</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">Selassie - Hubnik - Sivok - Kalec</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">Jiracek - Hubschman</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">Plasil - Rosicky - Rezek</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">Baros</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"> </p>
<p><strong>WFD predicted group finish: </strong>3rd</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Czech Republic Group Schedule: </strong>(All times local)<strong><br /></strong></p>
<p><strong>Match 1: </strong>June 8 v Russia - Municipal Stadium, Wroclaw (20:45)</p>
<p><strong>Match 2: </strong>June 12 v Greece - Municipal Stadium, Wroclaw (18:00)<strong><br /></strong></p>
<p><strong>Match 3: </strong>June 16 v Poland - Municipal Stadium, Wroclaw (20:45)</p>
<p> </p>
<br />
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
WFD Staff
2012-05-28T13:42:00Z
Euro 2012 Preview: Poland
WFD Staff
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Euro-2012-Preview:-Poland/-606768791259778439.html
2012-05-28T13:27:00Z
2012-05-28T13:27:00Z
<p><strong>How they qualified: </strong>Host nation</p>
<p><strong>Team Base: </strong>Warsaw</p>
<p>The host nation come into the tournament with plenty of pressure on them thanks to some lackluster friendly results over the last 12 months.</p>
<p>The Poles went on a eight month losing streak under the tenure of Franciszek Smuda but while everyone else was battling through their qualifying groups, Poland managed to find their form, losing just once in their last eleven outings.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/blog/pol-szczesny.jpg" alt="" width="220" height="152" /></p>
<p>The home support will provide a major boost to Poland’s chances but their arsenal is built on more then just the plucky courage associated with weak host nations.</p>
<p>Arsenal’s Wojciech Szczesny provides an extremely save pair of hands in goal, while Borussia Dortmund star Robert Lewandowski smashed in 22 goals in Germany’s top flight and has proved himself to be one of the top marksmen in Europe.</p>
<p style="text-align: right;"><img src="/images/blog/RLewandoski.jpg" alt="" width="154" height="232" /></p>
<p>Poland have enough talent in their squad to get through a mediocre group, and with the support of the home fans behind them, WFD believes the host nation will be going to the quarterfinals.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>WFD Predicted Starting XI: </strong>4-2-3-1</p>
<p> </p>
<p style="text-align: center;">Sczcesny</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">Piszczek - Wasilewski - Perguis - Boenisch</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">Polanski - Murawski</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">Blaszczykowski - Obraniak - Rybus</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">Lewandowski</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"> </p>
<p><strong>WFD predicted group finish: </strong>2nd</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Poland Group Schedule: </strong>(All times local)<strong><br /></strong></p>
<p><strong>Match 1: </strong>June 8 v Greece - National Stadium, Warsaw (18:00)</p>
<p><strong>Match 2: </strong>June 12 v Russia - National Stadium, Warsaw (20:45)<strong><br /></strong></p>
<p><strong>Match 3: </strong>June 16 v Czech Republic - Municipal Stadium, Wroclaw (20:45)</p>
<p> </p>
<br />
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<div id="_mcePaste" class="mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 812px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;">
<p><strong>How they qualified: </strong>Finished 2nd in Group I qualifying; defeated Montenegro 3-0 on aggregate in playoff</p>
<p><strong>Team Base: </strong>Wroclaw</p>
<br />
<p>A rich history or European Championship success may not be enough to guide Michal Bilek’s side through the group stages of this years tournament.</p>
<p>Semifinalists in 2004 and runners up in 1996 the Czech sides of yester year have had plenty of talent, but the likes of Jan Koller, Pavel Nedved and Karel Poborsky have never truly been replaced with players of similar quality.<img style="float: right;" src="/images/blog/MilanBarosCzech.jpg" alt="" width="203" height="154" /></p>
<p>The Czechs have struggled to find goals and were the second worst of the sides forced to qualify through the playoffs, with Michal Kadlec finishing as the squads top scorer with four goals from the left-back position.</p>
<p>Milan Baros is likely to start as the lone man up front, but the former Liverpool striker has been described as playing ‘like he’s been around forever’, a tag which sums up the 30-year-old’s productivity over the last 24 months.</p>
<p>Thomas Rosicky had a strong finish to his season with Arsenal while Petr Cech was the hero in Munich as Chelsea lifted the Champions League trophy, but even they may not be enough to drag their side through to the knockout stages of this years tournament.</p>
<p> </p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/blog/RosickyCzech.jpg" alt="" width="328" height="215" /></p>
<br />
<p> </p>
<p><strong>WFD Predicted Starting XI: </strong>4-2-3-1</p>
<p> </p>
<p style="text-align: center;">Cech</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">Selassie - Hubnik - Sivok - Kalec</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">Jiracek - Hubschman</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">Plasil - Rosicky - Rezek</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">Baros</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"> </p>
<p><strong>WFD predicted group finish: </strong>3rd</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Czech Republic Group Schedule: </strong>(All times local)<strong><br /></strong></p>
<p><strong>Match 1: </strong>June 8 v Russia - Municipal Stadium, Wroclaw (20:45)</p>
<p><strong>Match 2: </strong>June 12 v Greece - Municipal Stadium, Wroclaw (18:00)<strong><br /></strong></p>
<strong>Match 3: </strong>June 16 v Poland - Municipal Stadium, Wroclaw (20:45)</div>
WFD Staff
2012-05-28T13:27:00Z
Euro 2012 Preview: Warsaw National Stadium
WFD Staff
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Euro-2012-Preview:-Warsaw-National-Stadium/-340716060672137167.html
2012-05-28T07:46:00Z
2012-05-28T07:46:00Z
<strong> </strong><br /><br /><strong><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></strong><strong><br /><br />Capacity:</strong> 58,145<br /><strong><br />Games: </strong>(All times are local)<br />Poland v Greece June 8th (18:00)<br />Poland v Russia June 12th (20:45)<br />Greece v Russia June 16th (20:45)<br /><br />Quarterfinal 1 - Winner of Group A v Runner-up of Group B June 21 (20:45)<br /><br />Semi-final 2 - Winner of Quarterfinal 2 v Winner of Quarterfinal 4 June 28 (20:45)<br /><br /><br />
<p>The national stadium for Poland will host five games this summer includi<img style="float: right;" src="/images/blog/Warsaw2.jpg" alt="" width="263" height="175" />ng the tournament’s opening game on June 8<sup>th</sup>.</p>
<p>Building work began back in 2008 and the ground was officially opened on January 29<sup>th</sup> of 2012. </p>
<p>Situated on the bank of the Vistula River that runs through the nation’s capital, Warsaw stadium is close to the center of the busy city.</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p>The defining feature of the ground is the unique PVC roof that unfolds from a nest suspended on a needle above the center of the pitch. The roof is retractable and will provide shelter from any freak summer showers.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/blog/Warsaw3.jpg" alt="" width="331" height="204" /></p>
WFD Staff
2012-05-28T07:46:00Z
The FAN
Geoffrey Leavitt
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/The-FAN/189212739391702165.html
2012-05-22T20:40:00Z
2012-05-22T20:40:00Z
<p>Twas months ago when I settled down</p>
<p>Upon my thrown of wood, foam and eiderdown.</p>
<p>The controller held firm in trembling hands</p>
<p>Would soon send me sights fantastic, from foreign lands.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Upon my right, my new computer is set</p>
<p>To give me stats and other things I will soon forget.</p>
<p>Sending pod-cast and blogs from round the world</p>
<p>To remind me, and tell me of what has just unfurled.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Smart phone is added, to be fair,</p>
<p>For witty revelations that I and others might share.</p>
<p>To get more scores and goals so fast and so true,</p>
<p>From teams ignored and unknown by me or you.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>I settle back with no cares, no worries, no strife</p>
<p>Saying goodbye to my friends, my family and wife.</p>
<p>Turn on the TV, with extreme delight.</p>
<p>No sorrow, no sadness everything is perfect, it's just right.</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p>Well it’s over now and "BAM" reality hits!</p>
<p>Ten months of my life spent screaming, yelling and having fits.</p>
<p>My fingers from tweeting, worn down, and black and blue.</p>
<p>My computer is kaput; beat it to death one day with my shoe.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>My visions gone blurry from watching all those games.</p>
<p>CRAP, I just realized, I forgot my kids names.</p>
<p>Slowly rising and pealing my self from the settee.</p>
<p>I accept its really over, it’s done and I'm free.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>So WFD I plead now with all my heart.</p>
<p>You got to save me this summer, with great shows till season's start.</p>
<p>Cause soon I will overlook how much I've suffered I fear.</p>
<p>And convince myself, things will be different next year.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>....</p>
<p>Thank you to Geoff in Philly who sent us this poem, really well done, mate.</p>
<p> </p>
Geoffrey Leavitt
2012-05-22T20:40:00Z
One Hell Of A Ride
A.J. Nelson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/One-Hell-Of-A-Ride/-861897187232290646.html
2012-05-14T22:49:00Z
2012-05-14T22:49:00Z
<p>Sunday’s game had zero league significance for Madrid. They claimed the title of “champions” two weeks ago. And unless Cristiano Ronaldo scored 6 goals in the game, the coveted Pichichi had been won by Lionel Messi after Messi scored a ridiculous 7 goals in 2 games to take a solid lead. Messi and Ronaldo shattered records this season and I feel quite fortunate to be watching history in the making as they compete against one another. Real Madrid’s three strikers as a group made their own history this season. Cristiano Ronaldo, Karim Benzema and Gonzalo Higuain all scored over 20 goals which is the first time in La Liga history that three players from the same squad reached that scoring mark. Cristiano Ronaldo also became the first player in La Liga’s history to score against every other team in one season. Remarkable.</p>
<p>It is an understatement to say that Real Madrid was incredible this season. Even José Mourinho stated that it was “a great season with numbers impossible to improve on”. However, in true Mourinho fashion, he only gave the season a score of 9 out of 10. Ever planning, Mourinho is likely reviewing tapes to try and figure out how to win the Champions League next year and make the season a perfect 10. It is that incredible work ethic that found Mourinho setting his own records, winning his 7<sup>th</sup> title in 4 different leagues (Portugal, Italy, England and Spain), an achievement no other coach has ever managed. A perfect 10, however, would have him winning it all: La Liga, the Copa Del Rey AND the Champions League. He has accomplished two, but clearly has his eye on the trifecta.</p>
<p>There was one final record to be broken on Sunday: the total points scored in a single season. There is a total of 114 points available each year in La Liga. Barcelona held the record at a whopping 99 points. To reach 99 points is incredible. As any lover of football knows, in a long season, on any given day, even the worst team can defeat you or hold you to a draw. Even now-relegated Villarreal was able to hold both Real Madrid and Barcelona to draws in the second half of the season. But with Mallorca at home, Real Madrid had to know they could break this final record. When the win was in the books, #100points and #100puntos were trending worldwide on Twitter. Real Madrid reached a pinnacle that no team in the top 4 European leagues has ever achieved. 32 wins, 4 draws and 2 losses. 100 points. Stunning!</p>
<p>As a team rich with history and tradition, Real Madrid’s past champions include superstars with names scattered throughout the record books: Zidane, Beckham, Raúl, Ronaldo, Figo. The list could go on and on and the list is growing. Many of this season’s players have already broken enough records to be considered legends: Casillas, Ronaldo, Ramos, Alonso. Given the performance of this year’s team, many more names will likely soon be added and it's going to be one he** of a ride! ¡Hala Madrid!<br /><br /><em>A.J. Nelson can be found on Twitter @FootieObsessed and counting the days to the start of Euro 2012.</em></p>
A.J. Nelson
2012-05-14T22:49:00Z
Premier League Recap (May 13)
Adam Johnson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Premier-League-Recap-May-13/-771397784332294062.html
2012-05-14T04:28:00Z
2012-05-14T04:28:00Z
<p>Sunday was the 38<sup>th</sup> and final match day of the 2011-12 Barclays Premier League season, and what an unbelievable day it was. All ten games kicked off at the same time and keeping up with all of it was thrilling stuff. There was plenty of drama, and as has been the case this season, it was left late. Here is how the action unfolded.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Chelsea 2-1 Blackburn</span></p>
<p>The Blues have both their eyes on Munich with the Champions League final coming up, but that didn’t stop them from winning against the hopeless, and already relegated, Blackburn. John Terry and Raul Meireles scored two goals close together to make it 2-0. Yakubu pulled one back for Blackburn but that was all and it ended probably as it should, 2-1.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Everton 3-1 Newcastle</span></p>
<p>If only Everton could start a season in decent form, then they might be in Newcastle’s place, fighting for a Champions League spot. Their 3-1 win over the 5<sup>th</sup> placed side (and breath of fresh air) Newcastle, put a nice exclamation point on a fine second half of the season. Stephen Peinaar and Nikica Jelavic, who have been Everton’s best players in this second half, made it 2-0 before halftime. John Heitinga then made it three with a free header. A Tony Hibbert own goal made it 3-1 but it finished that way and the Goodison Park faithful went home happy.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Norwich 2-0 Aston Villa</span></p>
<p>The promoted Norwich had a much better season than their veteran opponents on Sunday, so a 2-0 win to the home side was a fitting way to finish off the campaign. Grant Holt and Simeon Jackson got the goals to seal the points.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Stoke 2-2 Bolton</span></p>
<p>Bolton needed a win to avoid relegation and it looked like they would get it when the Davies boys (Mark and Kevin) turned around a contentious Jonathan Walters goal for Stoke. But then it was Walters again who would bury from the spot to send Bolton down.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Swansea 1-0 Liverpool</span></p>
<p>This game really didn’t mean much and a late Danny Graham winner for Swansea ended their season off right while Liverpool’s ended, maybe fittingly, with a whimper.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Tottenham 2-0 Fulham</span></p>
<p>Spurs needed to win and hope for an Arsenal draw or loss to get third and they did their part. Emmanuel Adebayor put the home side in front very early after some nice passing straight from the kickoff. Moussa Dembele rattled the woodwork for Fulham in the second half but it was Jermaine Defoe who would double the lead and make sure Spurs finished in the top four.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">West Brom 2-3 Arsenal</span></p>
<p>An Arsenal win assured them third place and a spot in the Champions League next season. It started off brightly when Yossi Benayoun poked home a Martin Fulop mistake to give them the Gunners the lead very early on. But, Shane Long made it 1-1 with a nice finish. Graham Dorrans one-upped his teammate with an even better finish to give West Brom the lead. Just a few minutes later it was level again when Andre Santos powered in a shot from outside the box. After four goals inside of 30 minutes there was a little bit of a break until the 55<sup>th</sup> minute when Laurent Koscielny took advantage of another mistake from Fulop and got the winner to make sure Arsenal finished in third.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Wigan 3-2 Wolves</span></p>
<p>Wigan was safe and Wolves were down, but that didn’t stop a decent game breaking out. Matt Jarvis got the opener while Franco di Santo equalized for Wigan. Emmerson Boyce scored two more for Roberto Martinez’s men, the second a Papiss Cisse-esque strike, to make it 3-1. Steven Fletcher got one for Wolves but their season would end with yet another loss.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Sunderland 0-1 Manchester United</span></p>
<p>Whatever result United got directly impacted what Manchester City needed and vice versa. Which is why when Wayne Rooney scored in the first quarter of the game it made things a little more tense for their Manc neighbors. It ended up being the only goal of the match and United thought it was enough when their final whistle blew, until of course…</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Manchester City 3-2 QPR</span></p>
<p>Wow, this was a simply stunning finish at the Etihad as Manchester City was crowned champions of England for the first time since 1968. QPR came out with a defensive mindset and City came at them in waves. A tension-relieving goal finally came when Pablo Zabaleta’s shot overpowered QPR keeper, Paddy Kenny, and gave City the lead a few minutes before the break. Then, early in the second half, something happened that wasn’t supposed to, Djibril Cisse scored thanks to a Joleon Lescott error that made it 1-1. The City players were somewhat surprised but kept on attacking and things were made easier when the deplorable Joey Barton elbowed Carlos Tevez in the face, saw red, then kneed Sergio Aguero in the back on his way out. He is a disgrace at times, but anyway, instead of exploding against ten men, City let in another goal. This time it was a perfect diving header from Jamie Mackie after a nice counter attack that left Joe Hart with no chance. Roberto Mancini and the City fans were distraught and it looked like the title was slipping away. They kept attacking though and Edin Dzeko and Mario Balotelli were brought on for Gareth Barry and Tevez. Thanks to all of the crap with Barton, along with the subs and goals, there was 5 minutes of stoppage time. So, 90 seconds into that stoppage time, Dzeko scored on a David Silva corner to make it 2-2 and give the home side a chance. Two minutes later, and now just 90 seconds to play, Balotelli played in Aguero who made a move to free himself and let fly. Goal, and then bedlam around the Etihad. I have to admit I’m not a City fan, but I leapt up and started punching the air like the players just at the sheer incredible nature of the goal. It was Aguero’s 30<sup>th</sup> of the season and the biggest of his life. This was the most spectacular finish to a season of all time and I will never forget where I was when it happened. Fair play to City, they are worthy champions, and I couldn’t be happier for their older fans as you could see how much it meant to them.</p>
<p>This hasn’t been the highest quality of seasons in the Premier League but the excitement and stories have been outstanding. I have Robin van Persie as my player of the season for keeping Arsenal alive and delivering when they needed it most. Manchester City is my team of the season for their great defense and resiliency in the face of another title push from their neighbors, Manchester United. There have been some fantastic goals and even better matches but I will remember Aguero’s the most on that final day. After all the games and highlights, I sometimes ask myself why do I love it so much, and then a finish to the season like Sunday happens, and I remember, oh yeah…<em>that’s</em> why.</p>
<em><br />These recaps, and more sports writing, can be found on slappin5.com...or follow @Slappin5</em>
Adam Johnson
2012-05-14T04:28:00Z
Premier League Recap (May 5-8)
Adam Johnson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Premier-League-Recap-May-5-8/-36267383852503843.html
2012-05-09T02:35:00Z
2012-05-09T02:35:00Z
<p>The penultimate weekend in the Premier League was an exciting one that saw a couple places get locked up and a couple more up for grabs. Blackburn joined Wolves in the Championship while the Manchester clubs stayed level at the top after City’s impressive win over Newcastle at St. James’ Park. Here is how the 10 games played out plus a recap of the FA Cup Final.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Arsenal 3-3 Norwich</span></p>
<p>I have to admit; I did not see this one coming. Yossi Benayoun gave Arsenal a quick lead just over a minute into the contest and it looked like they would be off and running. Norwich had other ideas, however. Their attacking play was rewarded with Wes Hoolahan and Grant Holt goals, both of which were deflected in. Norwich should have had a penalty but that would even out later. In the second half it was Arsenal who pressed and Robin van Persie came alive. The Dutchman had a couple of chances before burying two, the second of which was another “alley-oop” from Alex Song, to make it 3-2 Arsenal. There was another twist in the tale as Steve Morrison clinically finished to level it a three all. RVP had another chance saved and a penalty claim denied as this wild finish came to a close. </p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Chelsea 2-1 Liverpool (FA Cup Final)</span></p>
<p>It was Cup Final day at Wembley Stadium on Saturday and the matchup was a classic winner, Liverpool, against a recent powerhouse in the competition, Chelsea. Ramires and Branislav Ivanovic, two players who are ineligible for the Champions League Final, were given the start for Chelsea as well as Didier Drogba over Fernando Torres. For Liverpool it was their second Cup Final of the season and they fielded an experienced team with Luis Suarez acting as the lone striker and Andy Carroll on the bench. The match started as a tense affair but Chelsea started to gain some momentum and the lead through Ramires just 11 minutes in. Neither side created very many chances and we would go into halftime with just the lone Chelsea goal. Early in the second half, the 52<sup>nd</sup> minute to be exact, Drogba added to his list of Wembley goals as he became the first person ever to score in four different FA Cup Finals. His low, left footed shot left Kenny Dalglish with no option but to bring Andy Carroll on and try to get something back. It turned out to be a great move as Carroll was outstanding and got a goal in the 64<sup>th</sup> minute to make it 2-1. Liverpool mounted more and more pressure on Chelsea and eventually looked like they had tied it when Carroll headed a Luis Suarez cross towards goal. It was not given, however, and replays suggest that the whole of the ball did not cross the whole of the line. It was gut wrenching for Liverpool but a fantastic save by Petr Cech as his Blues held out for the remaining minutes to take home the trophy. One cup down, one to go?</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Newcastle 0-2 Manchester City</span></p>
<p>Yaya Toure came through again for City as his two goals all but wrapped up the title for the blue side of Manchester. The first half was pretty entertaining and both sides created a couple of chances, but it was 0-0 at the break. It stayed scoreless as the match wore on and the City fans had to be feeling incredibly tense. But then, the substitution happened: Nigel de Jong for Samir Nasri. It sounds defensive, yes, but it allowed Yaya Toure to get further forward, which paid off mightily as Toure and the outstanding David Silva linked up for the Ivorian to curl it in. It wasn’t over though as Newcastle kept coming. Sergio Aguero and Toure both had chances to double the lead but eventually Toure did so on a swift counter attack that left the Newcastle defenders no chance. 2-0 to City and the title is almost, almost theirs.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Aston Villa 1-1 Tottenham</span></p>
<p>With Arsenal drawing on Saturday, this was a golden opportunity for Spurs to jump them in the table and have the inside track on third place. They did not take that opportunity and a disappointing draw was all they could conjure up. The first chance fell to Villa but Emile Heskey couldn’t get away from the defense and Tottenham were safe, but only for a couple minutes. In the 35<sup>th</sup> minute Ciaran Clark’s shot took a huge deflection off William Gallas and gave the home side a lead. The job was made harder in the second half when young Danny Rose was sent off for a very high and reckless tackle. Ten minutes later, though, Spurs were given a penalty that Emmanuel Adebayor put away. Tottenham pushed but a winner never came.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Bolton 2-2 West Brom</span></p>
<p>West Brom is playing for a manager who is about to take a much higher profile job and Bolton are trying desperately to stay in the Premier League. Bolton struck first, on a penalty after Mark Davies was knocked down and Martin Petrov put the spot kick away. It was 1-0 at halftime and the second half saw both teams go for it. It was then 2-0 to Bolton after a ridiculous own goal. Chris Brunt got West Brom back in the match with a great finish. The away side continued their good play and leveled when James Morrison poked home in the 90<sup>th</sup> minute. It was heartbreaking for Bolton as three points were turned into just one.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Fulham 2-1 Sunderland</span></p>
<p>An early Clint Dempsey free kick gave Fulham the lead, but a powerful Phil Bardsley strike made it 1-1. Just a minute later Fulham were back in front after a great run and shot from Moussa Dembele made it 2-1. That was the score at halftime and at full time as Fulham, and their star Dempsey, continued their impressive run.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">QPR 1-0 Stoke</span></p>
<p>A late, late Djibril Cisse goal may have saved QPR’s Premier League lives as he tapped in a flicked on header from Anton Ferdinand. Loftus Road went nuts as these three points lifted QPR out of the drop zone.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Wolves 0-0 Everton</span></p>
<p>This was a match that meant very little, if anything, in the table and the score line showed it. Everton did put it in once, but was ruled offside.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Manchester United 2-0 Swansea</span></p>
<p>Due to Manchester City’s win earlier in the day, United knew that they not only had to win, but win big. They did not do so and only a 2-0 win, thanks to Paul Scholes and Ashley Young, was all that was in the cards. They are still level on points but eight back in goal differential.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Blackburn 0-1 Wigan</span></p>
<p>It was a wet Monday night at Ewood Park and the home fans used the occasion to vent their frustration with just about everyone involved with the club. There were signs, chants, and protests, but most of all just bad play. Antonin Alcaraz got the lone goal late in the match for Wigan, which sealed their place in the league next season. I have to say that I feel bad for Steve Kean as he looked like a helpless figure on the sidelines. Blackburn is going down and I am going to guess that Kean will not be going with them.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Liverpool Chelsea</span></p>
<p>This was a Tuesday league rematch of the Saturday Cup Final ironically, and this game really didn’t mean much as fourth place was fairly unattainable for Chelsea before the match and impossible after the match. Liverpool can actually look good at times and the first half of this match was one of those times. The Reds took the lead after a great run from Luis Suarez and his pass bounced off of Michael Essien and into the net. It was 2-0 just minutes later after Jordan Henderson took advantage of a John Terry slip and slotted the ball home. Daniel Agger made it three on a corner and it could’ve been four but Stuart Downing missed a penalty that probably never should’ve been. In the second half Chelsea pulled one back through Ramires but Liverpool regained their three goal lead in the 61<sup>st</sup> minute when Jonjo Shelvey took advantage of a terrible clearance from Ross Turnbull and powered a shot home. It finished 4-1 and Chelsea’s immediate future as a club now rests solely on the Champions League Final. </p>
Adam Johnson
2012-05-09T02:35:00Z
Will Crouch or Holt get the nod for England?
Thomas Rooney
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Will-Crouch-or-Holt-get-the-nod-for-England/-468233370491920982.html
2012-05-08T15:01:00Z
2012-05-08T15:01:00Z
<p><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Two players doing themselves no harm whatsoever as far as <a href="http://www.euro2012odds.org.uk/"><strong>Euro 2012 Odds</strong></a> are concerned are Peter Crouch and Grant Holt.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Peter Crouch does have plenty of international experience and a fantastic record in an England shirt, something which he has not been given enough credit for. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The Stoke striker has scored 22 goals in just 44 appearances for his national side so certainly is more than capable at the highest level. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Crouch has also been in good form for the Potters this campaign, finding the net ten times, including one of the goals of the season against Manchester City where he showed technique that some people would have doubted he had in his locker.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The former Liverpool striker is obviously a massive threat in the air and his attributes are something that international sides fear. Hodgson should take players that are appearing week in week out for their club’s and playing well. Crouch has been doing both of these.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Calibri;">One of the Premier League’s surprise packages this season has been Grant Holt. The Norwich captain has been colossal leading the line for his side, playing a big part in a successful campaign for The Canaries.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Those focusing on <a href="http://www.euro2012odds.org.uk/england-euro-2012-odds/422">England Euro 2012 Odds</a> should note that Holt has now scored 14 goals in the league, making him the second highest English scorer in the top flight. Considering his is not at one of the so called big clubs, this is a great achievement. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The 31-year-old is certainly a presence up front and is another striker that international teams would not be used too. Holt is not the kind of player that could play 90 minutes in every game during a tournament. However, he is an ideal substitute. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Calibri;">If you are taking players on form, then Norwich’s number nine deserves his place, at the age he is it would also probably be his only chance so he would be desperate to impress and prove himself. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Both Crouch and Holt have had impressive seasons and most certainly deserve their place on the plane to Poland and Ukraine this summer.</span></p>
Thomas Rooney
2012-05-08T15:01:00Z
Liver n' Onions:
Nash Larson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Liver-n-Onions:/139084941981526828.html
2012-05-07T04:35:00Z
2012-05-07T04:35:00Z
<p>The moment of ecstasy that would flush Andy Carroll's seasons woes down the drain, and perhaps being the moment that would justify Liverpool's sub-par season fizzled as quick as it came. Running away from the Chelsea goal in celebration after having thought he scored the tying goal in the FA Cup Final, a goal that would surely send it to extra time, was disallowed by the officials. It typified Liverpool's season in one second. A team that have hit the post more times than any other, once again suffered from the curse of the wood work. This kept the game 2-1 in Chelsea's favor, after second half substitute Andy Carroll scored for the Reds, shifting momentum, and showing the watching world the potential he bares. He thought he did it again, a goal that would equalize the game, but a smart save from Petr <span class="goog-spellcheck-word">Cech</span> slapped Carroll's header off the bar and out. A huge cry from the Liverpool players, fans and Manager Kenny <span class="goog-spellcheck-word">Dalglish</span> pleading that the ball went over the line cascaded around <span class="goog-spellcheck-word">Wembley</span>, but this was waved away by the officials. I still believe the angles leave some ambiguity in it, but by the letter of the law, the whole ball must go over the line, and according to the cameras set up at <span class="goog-spellcheck-word">Wembley</span>, it didn't. </p>
<p> On the whole the match was well fought by the Liverpool squad, looking for their domestic cup double, having knocked Chelsea out of the Carling Cup earlier this season on their way to winning silverware. It was a Dr. Jekyll, Mr. Hyde performance from the Reds, as they started the game as I suspected, not as I hoped, with Suarez the loan striker, Gerrard, Henderson and Spearing behind him. Downing and Bellamy operating on the wings, with Carroll on the bench. Liverpool were slow out the gates, allowing Chelsea to press upon them, as they sat deep and seemed to lack options when trying to break <span class="goog-spellcheck-word">upfield</span>. Downing and Jose Enrique on the right side both started off bag's of nerves, sloppy in passing and disconnected in their thinking. Their tempo was slow, much like Chelsea under Andre Villa Boas, with unnecessary passing in their own half, that ultimately lead to nothing. I didn't take long for the sloppy play to cost them as <span class="goog-spellcheck-word">Ramieres</span> capitalized on Enrique defending to tight, making it easy for the Brazilian to tun him, skin him for pace and crack a rocket shot off Pepe Reina and into his near post. Clever keeping by Reina backfired, as the Spaniard showed <span class="goog-spellcheck-word">Ramieres</span> his far post, only to have his momentum take him away from the shot at the near. It pains me to say that I was glad Liverpool conceded, but I knew now that they would have to open up and stick the game to the Blues. This is exactly what they did.</p>
<p> Towards the end of the half Liverpool enjoyed some promising forays forward, yet their talisman Luis Suarez remained anonymous. Coming out after the half the excitement and tension of <span class="goog-spellcheck-word">Wembley</span> harnessed itself in my back, and I wondered what changes in mentality and tactics <span class="goog-spellcheck-word">Dalglish</span> instilled at half time. Right from the off I knew more expansive football would be in the offing as a long searching ball was hit by Midfield maestro Gerrard, something non-existent in the first half. </p>
<p> Hope sprung eternal, until a pocket opened up between Johnson and <span class="goog-spellcheck-word">Skrtel</span> in the back line, just wide enough for <span class="goog-spellcheck-word">Lampard</span> to slide a pass to the <span class="goog-spellcheck-word">Wembley</span> specialist himself <span class="goog-spellcheck-word">Drogba</span>, whose one touch then smack trimmed the grass on its way into Reina's far-post, making it 2-0. Just like the first half Liverpool conceded early, but with 40 odd minutes left to play, the game was far from over. The introduction of Andy Carroll turned the game on it's head, and Liverpool grew some teeth in attack. So much criticism has been shot the big Geordie striker this </p>
<p>season, yet in this match he put all the critic's to rest. His hold up play, superb. Inspired by the presence of <span class="goog-spellcheck-word">Drogba</span>, Carroll won numerous headers against anything no slouches, Terry and <span class="goog-spellcheck-word">Ivanovich</span>. It was a loose ball that fell to his feet, and where some would smash it in a panic, Carroll shifted it onto his left and hammered it into the roof of the net past an outstretched <span class="goog-spellcheck-word">Cech</span>, personifying cool. </p>
<p> His scream of joy said it all, knowing he just gave his side a way back into the game. It was his last minute header in the semi-final against <span class="goog-spellcheck-word">Everton</span> that got them to <span class="goog-spellcheck-word">Wembley</span>, and now he did it again. After this Chelsea started to crumble, and the urgency from Liverpool brought out their best stuff. If you look back on their play this season, the times they looked a dangerous side always came when they were down by a goal. Even back to the Rafa <span class="goog-spellcheck-word">Benitez</span> days, Liverpool have always been a "do or die" kind of club, often leaving it late to take their chances, and always a team for the big occasion. At first their play reflected a side <span class="goog-spellcheck-word">unconfident</span> in this match, but growing into it they looked much a better side, one capable of sustaining a challenge for a <span class="goog-spellcheck-word">european</span> place next season. It's no secret that the project didn't work this season, and I fully expect whole-sale changes this summer. </p>
<p> </p>
<p><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SKwNiUdABi4/T6dM-O3aN6I/AAAAAAAAAxE/cm39T7VXgP4/s1600/Screen+shot+2012-05-05+at+5.02.23+PM.png"><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SKwNiUdABi4/T6dM-O3aN6I/AAAAAAAAAxE/cm39T7VXgP4/s400/Screen+shot+2012-05-05+at+5.02.23+PM.png" border="0" alt="" width="400" height="200" /></a>Another goal for Liverpool looked inevitable, as Carroll threw his weight about, Downing started cutting in- and- out getting crosses into the box, and Suarez started to pull strings around the arch. It was Suarez who presented the chance that could have changed the outcome, when tidy work from right-back Glen Johnson put him past Ashley Cole, and into the box. The onrushing Suarez took over the ball, looked up and <span class="goog-spellcheck-word">dinkted</span> a cross to the back post where the poaching Carroll loomed with intent. A violent whip from his pony-tail shot the ball towards the net, where a quick <span class="goog-spellcheck-word">reflexed</span> <span class="goog-spellcheck-word">Cech</span> parried it off the cross bar and out. At first glance it looked to have crossed the line as the keeper arrived late. With Liverpool's No. 9 running away arms outstretched in celebration, the whistle blew and a shake of the head from match official Phil <span class="goog-spellcheck-word">Dowd</span> squashed the celebratory Carroll's exhalations instantaneously. If you look at the shot below, it's really any ones guess if it's a goal or not. It looks as though the ball is over the line, but you cannot tell if all of it is or not. If it didn't, it really is a fantastic reflex save from <span class="goog-spellcheck-word">Cech</span>, who knew it to add, as he wagged his finger in denial at the onrushing Carroll. The debate for goal line technology will rage on, as Liverpool fans will feel <span class="goog-spellcheck-word">argreaved</span> that once again there team was denied by the post.</p>
<p> This decided the match, as Chelsea held on for the remainder and Liverpool lost the opportunity of a domestic cup double. The players can hold their heads high, as they made a valiant effort, but sometimes the luck is not with you, and it has been that way for the whole season. In a positive outlook, Carroll looked fantastic during his spell on the field, and when Liverpool face Chelsea in their next league game on May 8th, he'll be a shoe-in to start. </p>
<p> </p>
<p> For More check out spotkickjournalism.blogspot.com</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
Nash Larson
2012-05-07T04:35:00Z
Liver n' Onions: May 5th, Dalglish's Date With Destiny
Nash Larson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Liver-n-Onions:-May-5th,-Dalglishs-Date-With-Destiny/-35961176305311939.html
2012-05-03T22:56:00Z
2012-05-03T22:56:00Z
<p>The "shock" defeat at the hands of Fulham monday came as anything but a shock to me really. In all truth I half expected it. The heads of Liverpool players already on the Wembley pitch ahead of their FA Cup final against Chelsea Saturday, a game against Fulham was the l;east of their worries. Dalglish said " ease up against Fulham, and risk your spot in the FA cup final." Easing into mediocrity is what the much changed Liverpool side did, and an own goal by this seasons defensive stalwart Martin Skrtel, was the deciding factor in the game. It was the Londoners' first win at Anfield in their Premier League history, but it was far from being a classic. Ex Liverpool fullback John Arne Riise made that ol' familiar overlapping run, one familiar to the Anfield faithful, but this time it was the dagger that undid the Liverpool defense. Senior players Gerrard, Agger and Suarez where given the night off, as was keeper Pepe Reina, and the play lacked their creative spark. A result that thoroughly summed up the Reds season, as they look for retribution in this weekends cup clash. Having already won the Carling Cup, Dalglish looks to hit the domestic cup double with a FA cup win. </p>
<p><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-G3SVqQy527o/T6ML8CQ7rqI/AAAAAAAAAv4/kq56ASKWeqo/s1600/Martin-Skrtel-Liverpool-F-008.jpg"><img style="float: right;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-G3SVqQy527o/T6ML8CQ7rqI/AAAAAAAAAv4/kq56ASKWeqo/s320/Martin-Skrtel-Liverpool-F-008.jpg" border="0" alt="" width="320" height="192" /></a></p>
<p>Question is can they? </p>
<p> They face a resurgent Chelsea, who have booked their Champions Final ticket after defeating the mighty Barcelona. Torres looks like he's back to his old shenanigans with a hat trick at the weekend, and all around the Chelsea camp confidence is high. For me this depends on the line-up set loose by Dalglish, for when set up right Liverpool maintain good width, and are cheeky when making forward runs. To add Liverpool have proved to be a bit of a bogey team for Chelsea this season winning 2-0 in the carling cup, and 1-0 when they faced Chelsea in the League earlier this season. The fact that win was away from home, and the fact the FA cup final is at Wembley, and not at Anfield makes me feel as though they have a chance of taking silverware. Liverpool have secured a mere 24 points this season at Anfield compared to 40 last year, and 42 the year before. What happened..do balls drop off? Liverpool have always been a team for the big game, and they seem to falter against the mid to small level teams in the league. This said their clash with Chelsea this weekend is the biggest game the Reds will participate in this season. With the cards delt this is how the house will be set up.</p>
<p> </p>
<p style="text-align: center;">Reina</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"> </p>
<p style="text-align: center;">Johnson Skrtel Agger Enrique</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"> </p>
<p style="text-align: center;">Spearing Gerrard </p>
<p style="text-align: center;">Kuyt Downing</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">Suarez </p>
<p style="text-align: center;"> Carroll</p>
<p> This in actual fact is more of a hopeful line-up as Jordan Henderson will probably start and Carroll will sit as Dalglish tries to keep it tight in midfield. This match up has story ties in abounty with most likely Torres lining up against Carroll, and the possibility of Raul Meireles starting against his old club Liverpool. </p>
<p class="separator"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BAW3bJAvNX8/T6MM2lVVKWI/AAAAAAAAAwA/DOx-kL0t63Q/s1600/Liverpool-Arsenal.jpg"><img style="float: left;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BAW3bJAvNX8/T6MM2lVVKWI/AAAAAAAAAwA/DOx-kL0t63Q/s320/Liverpool-Arsenal.jpg" border="0" alt="" width="320" height="192" /></a>In a perfect world both Torres and Carroll would find the net, twice, and the Gerrard vs. Lampard duel in midfield is one of the ages. What I want from Liverpool is to get the wing players involved and get crosses to Carroll if he plays, and to give Suarez the ball at every opportunity. His Fantastic hat-trick against Norwich last weekend will have the Uruguayan flying on jet fuel and the Reds need to harness it like an oar of uranium. </p>
<p> This brings me to my next point of gaging success this season for Liverpool. Two words that sounds odd to put together, yet if they do come up trumps this weekend they will have walked away with two trophies this season. The gage for success has always come down to League standing, and the Champions League, yet a domestic cup double is nothing to shrug your shoulders at. If proven to be so, I call it a success. In the recent history Liverpool football club and fans have been used to seeing their club at the top of the EPL, and consistently reaching the latter stages of the Champions League. This is no longer the case, exceptions should change with reality and with I say hold these when you watch the Blues and the Reds march-out onto the Wembley pitch Saturday May 5th at 5:15.</p>
<p>Check out my summarizing thoughts post match at <a href="http://spotkickjournalism.blogspot.com/">spotkickjournalism.blogspot.com</a></p>
Nash Larson
2012-05-03T22:56:00Z
Campeones! Champions!
A.J. Nelson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Campeones!--Champions!/-653806635859950776.html
2012-05-03T17:43:00Z
2012-05-03T17:43:00Z
<p>It is difficult to say that Real Madrid fans went through a lot of lows, but regardless if your team is at the top of the table or the bottom, the lows are there. For Real Madrid, four years of watching their arch rival, Barcelona, lift the La Liga trophy was a definite low. That sinking feeling that it could happen again was renewed when Barcelona flexed their muscle winning the Spanish Super Cup before a single game of the La Liga season was even played. The feeling continued when Barcelona again reminded a flying high Madrid that they could be beat - at the Bernabeu no less. And last week, the lows were there after 120 minutes of play and penalty kicks ended Madrid’s chances to advance to the Champions League Final. </p>
<p>Where the team had highs and lows, the players did as well. Gonzalo Higuain and Mesut Özil both were heavily criticized during the course of the season. Higuain showed brilliant play at times, but fell out of favor and allowed Karim Benzema to solidify his position as José Mourinho’s preferred choice, leaving the talented Argentinian on the bench. In Özil’s case, it was more difficult to pinpoint the issue. He had games where he excelled on every level, but at other times he was mediocre (by Madrid’s high standards). In addition, although the German put forth a strong effort in every game, it was rare that he was able to complete a full game. </p>
<p>Last night, however, the lows for both players and team dissipated. Gonzalo Higuain reminded everyone in the 16<sup>th</sup> minute why he is a superstar. Moving his feet and taking the ball around multiple defenders, he gave a lesson on how goals are scored and sent a scorcher to the back of the net. Only 4 minutes later, the clever Özil, not a frequent goal scorer, made it 2-0. Higuain’s shot would be all Madrid needed, but Cristiano Ronaldo’s 44<sup>th</sup> goal of the season made it a comfortable win. The smiles on the Madridista’s faces got bigger with each passing second.</p>
<p>Having faced the lows, Madrid has now turned to the highs. The 4 years since Los Blancos claimed the league title seemed endless, but on Wednesday night, the party at Cibeles Fountain would start. Champions. Campeones. The official celebration starts shortly and the team may even feel good enough to let Sergio Ramos hold the trophy. Maybe.</p>
<p>Even though being league champions for the 32<sup>nd</sup> time is enough, Madrid could still break some records. They have already broken several scoring records, but they have the potential to reach the 100 point mark in the league – an unbelievable achievement which would break the record set last year by Barcelona at 97 points. And if that isn’t enough to keep watching the La Liga season to its end, there is still the race for the Pichichi Trophy. Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi have already broken the scoring records and a scant 2 goals separate them in that race. </p>
<p>For the next few days, however, none of that will matter - it is going to be all about singing and dancing and celebrating – Campeones! Champions!<br /><br /><img style="vertical-align: bottom; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/RM 4.jpg" alt="Champions" width="438" height="287" /><br /><br /><em>A.J. Nelson can be found on Twitter @FootieObsessed and counting down the days to September when she will find herself in Madrid.</em></p>
A.J. Nelson
2012-05-03T17:43:00Z
Premier League Recap (April 28-May 2)
Adam Johnson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Premier-League-Recap-April-28-May-2/375340424429718851.html
2012-05-02T22:37:00Z
2012-05-02T22:37:00Z
<p>Every team was in action over the weekend but the big one was on Monday between Manchester United and Manchester City. After that massive game we had the make up matches for the teams involved in the FA Cup semifinals. So 14 matches in all and here is how they played out.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Stoke 1-1 Arsenal</span></p>
<p>The two clubs’ strikers, Peter Crouch and Robin van Persie, each got a goal in this one. A point at Stoke is never bad, but third place is not guaranteed for Arsenal so these last two games are now more important than they were on Saturday morning.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Wigan 4-0 Newcastle</span></p>
<p>The Geordie’s are fighting for a Champions League spot but Wigan is trying to seal their place in the Premier League next year. So something had to give, and it was Newcastle who would bend. Wigan went 4-0 up before halftime and all four were wonder goals. The first two came from Victor Moses while Shaun Maloney and Franco di Santo (the best of the group) nabbed the other two. What a stretch this has been for Wigan and they surely are safe now.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Everton 4-0 Fulham</span></p>
<p>The Toffees are on a brilliant run in the league and Fulham were the most recent victims. Nikica Jelavic scored a penalty for the lead and Marouane Fellaini doubled that lead minutes later. Jelavic got Everton’s third, his second, with a tight angled finish. In the second half it was Steven Peinaar who assisted yet again for Tim Cahill to poke home and round out the 4-0 win. </p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Sunderland 2-2 Bolton</span></p>
<p>It has been a tough run recently for Sunderland, while Bolton is in a scrap to remain in the League. Kevin Davies got the opener with a sweet half volley in the 26<sup>th</sup> minute but Nicklas Bendtner leveled with a cool finish before halftime. Ten minutes after the break it was a foul by Davies that led to a Sunderland free kick which James McClean smashed in to make it 2-1. Davies made up for his mistake with a header to tie it up again and get a point out of the match.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Swansea 4-4 Wolves</span></p>
<p>With Wolves already down in the Championship, and literally nothing to play for, Swansea was licking their chops for another home win. It looked like they would get that when they went 3-0 up after just 15 minutes through Andrea Orlandi, Joe Allen, and Nathan Dyer. A Steven Fletcher header made it 3-1 but just three minutes later it was 4-1 when Danny Graham scored. However, just two minutes after the Graham strike, it was Matt Jarvis who was next on the score sheet for Wolves. So it was 4-2, all before halftime. In the 54<sup>th</sup> minute David Edwards was played in by Michael Kightly and finished nicely to really make Swansea sweat. Fifteen minutes later, Jarvis scored again to incredibly make it 4-4. What a match and Wolves deserve credit for fighting back in a game that meant nothing to them.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">West Brom 0-0 Aston Villa</span></p>
<p>Naturally this would be the only 0-0 game in a weekend that was full of goals. Aston Villa is simply terrible at the moment and might go down if they aren’t careful.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Norwich 0-3 Liverpool</span></p>
<p>Luis Suarez scored a hat trick on Saturday to give Liverpool a much-needed win, for confidence’s sake. His first was a powerful left footed strike, second a powerful right footed strike, and third a near midfield shot that had people reminiscing on similar David Beckham and Xabi Alonso strikes. This was the good side of Suarez that we saw on Saturday.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Chelsea 6-1 QPR</span></p>
<p>The Blues came in fresh off the upset of Barcelona in the Champions League semifinal, and their play revealed the apparent confidence that they gained. Daniel Sturridge scored 46 seconds into the match with a great strike that left Paddy Kenny with no chance. The goals flowed after that with John Terry getting the second, Fernando Torres the third and fourth, and this was all before halftime. In the second half it was Torres who had a couple of chances before getting his hat trick to make it 5-0. Florent Malouda then made it six, but Djibril Cisse got one for QPR to round out the thrashing 6-1.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Tottenham 2-0 Blackburn</span></p>
<p>This was a professional performance by Tottenham as Rafeal van der Vaart got one in the first half while Kyle Walker stroked home a beautiful free kick in the second half for the three points. And those were a vital three points as it put Spurs back in fourth place.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Manchester City 1-0 Manchester United</span></p>
<p>This was billed as the Premier League match of the decade. It was a true title decider, or the closest thing to a final that the EPL can have. It was not the goal-scoring classic that some had hoped for, but rather a 1-0 scrap that went to the home side, and it was beautiful. It reminded me of the 2010 NBA Finals game 7 between the Lakers and Celtics. That night didn’t see particularly pretty basketball but the teams fought and scrapped for everything and in the end the Lakers had just a little more, same as City on Monday. Vincent Kompany, the captain, got the lone goal when he rose up and headed home just before halftime. In the second half City continued to dominate and the frustration boiled over when Sir Alex Ferguson started yelling at Roberto Mancini following a challenge by Nigel de Jong on Danny Welbeck. The criticism of Ferguson has already started. Many are saying that starting Ji Sung Park over Antonio Valencia or Ashley Young was a mistake and too defensive. That may be the case, but if it had ended up 1-1 then he would’ve been a genius. City really could have made it 2-0 a couple times, most notably when Samir Nasri failed to score, but one was enough and the Etihad went nuts as the final whistle blew.</p>
<p><strong>Mid-Week Matches</strong></p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Stoke 1-1 Everton</span></p>
<p>Stoke scored twice in this match, unfortunately one of them was into their own net. Peter Crouch took the unenviable distinction of own goal scorer in the first half but second half sub, Cameron Jerome, used his pace to get the equalizer for Stoke. That was it, and a draw seemed about right.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Liverpool 0-1 Fulham</span></p>
<p>This was not a good game at all and the goal was ugly as well. After just five minutes, Fulham were up when a run and cross from John Arne Riise took a bounce off of Martin Skyrtel and went past goalkeeper Doni. That was the only goal of the game and lets just be honest, Liverpool sucks at Anfield.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Chelsea 0-2 Newcastle</span></p>
<p>Chelsea hosted Champions League hopefuls Newcastle at the Bridge on Wednesday and it became clear that the FA Cup Final and Champions League Final are weighing heavily on their minds. Papiss Cisse gave Newcastle the lead in the first half with a perfect first touch and left footed volley. The away side had the better of the chances for most of the game and eventually added a second, through Cisse again on what might be the strike of the season. Cisse smacked a ball with the outside of his boot and sent a swerving, bending ball past a helpless Peter Cech. Newcastle v. Man City on Sunday: what a match that will be.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Bolton 1-4 Tottenham</span></p>
<p>This match was held at the Reebok Stadium, where Fabrice Muamba made an emotional return to the stands as tears flowed and cheers rang loud for good reason. It was great to see him back and all the best wishes in his future from me. As for the match, it was a big one for both clubs as Spurs are fighting for Champions League football and Bolton for their Premier League lives. Luka Modric gave Tottenham the lead in the first half with a screamer. In the second half it was Nigel Reo-Coker who would level the match and give Bolton hope. About ten minutes later Rafael van der Vaart regained the lead after a quality counter attack from Spurs. Aaron Lennon then skinned Sam Ricketts before laying on for Emmanuel Adebayor to finish for the third. Adebayor added a second to make it 4-1 and get the three points for Tottenham, this time thanks to a Gareth Bale pass.</p>
<p>As of Wednesday night every Premier League team has played 36 matches and the table looks nearly complete, but only nearly. These last two matches can decide the fate of careers and legacies, so hang and enjoy the climax of the end of the season.</p>
Adam Johnson
2012-05-02T22:37:00Z
Ferguson's War Won
Matt Guinto
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Fergusons-War-Won/809611157082885941.html
2012-04-28T05:24:00Z
2012-04-28T05:24:00Z
<p>Reports have been confirmed: Josep ‘Pep’ Guardiola will be leaving Barcelona at seasons end. It comes to me a bit of a shock that a competitior of his likeness – and that he was, if you ever saw him play – would allow himself or his beloved Barça to go out with Real Madrid at the top. Granted that these past two or three weeks have been the toughest of his managerial career; losing to rivals Real Madrid in El Clasico and being bounced from the Champions League – a tournament the Blaugrana have essentially owned for the past few years – in the semi-finals to London’s Chelsea FC (playing under an interim coach, mind you); but I didn’t see him stepping down just yet.</p>
<p>Who will replace him? Does this end the Barça best-ever debates? Is it true that Pep will take over at Chelsea, for the very club who played such a large role in confirming his exit? A billion questions and just one very managerial answer from every manager involved: “there are still games to be played and until then I will only focus on (<em>enter team here</em>).”</p>
<p>Still, they say that with every door that closes, one more opens. I hope Pep walks through one being held open by Sir Alex Ferguson.</p>
<p>Shocked? Don’t be. Blasphemous? I don’t think so. It’s all for the best.</p>
<p>Sir Alex is the longest serving manager in the English Premier League and in the history of my beloved Manchester United. His tenure extends some 25 years for United, 10 years longer than Arsenal’s Arsene Wenger, the second longest serving in English top-flight.</p>
<p>In a league that would just about sack a manager for bad penmanship nowadays, it is amazing to consider that he has managed to stay both relevant and healthy in such a highly intense, demanding, dramatic environment; and United plays host to the lot. If Old Trafford isn’t the house that Fergie built, he sure as hell did the decorating.</p>
<p>When he joined the club in November 1986, United weren’t even in the proverbial conversation. To make matters worse, the club that dominated it was Liverpool. They had just won their 16<sup>th</sup> league title in the year before he joined. They added a 17<sup>th</sup> in the season following and kicked off their 18<sup>th</sup> league title campaign right around the time I was born, in August 1989. My deepest apologies; if there was anything I could’ve done to put them off I would have. To be fair, though, they were good. As for United, they hadn’t won any league titles since 1966-67 when they clinched their 7<sup>th</sup> overall.</p>
<p>Looking back, it is truly unfathomable to think we – United – are just a weekend away from knowing that we’ve snagged our 20<sup>th</sup>. But credit to Ferguson, an ever-believing attitude, and one talented, well-balanced squad after another. Here is how we got there:</p>
<p>United were fastest out of the traps in the Premier League era. We won our 8<sup>th</sup> league title in 1992-93, the year of its inception, and only three other clubs have tasted success since: Chelsea, Arsenal, and even Blackburn in the early years. Consider that they, combined, have won seven titles between them. That means United have won a remarkable, incomprehensible <em>twelve</em> since its formation until now.</p>
<p>A few comments, some made by Sir Alex and some directed to him, paint a picture better than I could ever honestly describe in my own words. But apart from “you’ll never win anything with kids” – a presumably regrettable comment made by Alan Hansen to Ferguson – it was one particular comment in a September 2002 interview for which he is best remember and best personified. “My greatest accomplishment,” he said, “was knocking Liverpool off their f-cking perch. And you can print that.” He made quite clear of what his intentions had always been for United. His words were striking, ruthless, and more that of an avid supporter than a manager, in truth. The passion set him apart from all of the other managers in that statement alone, such was his and United’s hatred for Liverpool.</p>
<p>Now, as Manchester United gear up to face those noisy neighbors Manchester City on Monday for the league title, I look around and can’t help but notice Liverpool’s absence: mission accomplished, Fergie. Still, even the most disillusioned United fan will admit that, apart from a few scintillating moments this season (i.e. thumping Arsenal 8-1), it has been a pretty mundane, average squad and overall campaign. </p>
<p>So, here is my stance: should Ferguson lead United to our 20<sup>th</sup> league title – and 13<sup>th</sup> in 20 seasons – he will enjoy one of his finest hours as manager; he will have won his war with Liverpool if he hasn’t already; he will officially have ignited a title-war with City that looks to be a long one; and then, he should make way. He should take a Club Director or higher executive and/or ownership role in the club, considering the long-term future for his beloved Reds.</p>
<p>Then, as eluded to above, Pep should take the helm. It will signify a new era, a new general leading United into a new war to keep City off of <em>our</em> f-cking perch. Ferguson doesn’t have that much left in him anyways, maybe a handful of seasons at most. And, as young and obviously talented as he is, Guardiola has already experienced more success with Barcelona than most coaches do with a list of teams throughout an entire lifetime. If he can take what United has established – an entertaining style of play, always dependable for late drama – and throw in a little bit of Barças ‘tiqui-taca’ style of passing play, the future could be as bright as the past.</p>
<p>I have long-assumed that Jose Mourinho would be the [chosen] one to take the spot if only for his sheer ability to handle a team of this magnitude. But, as irresistible as Barcelona have been and with the promise Pep brings – just for the record, that promise is exactly three consecutive La Liga titles, three consecutive Supercopa titles, a Copa del Rey, two Champions League titles in three seasons, two UEFA Supercup titles, and two FIFA Club World Cup titles – this is the time for Manchester United, for Ferguson, and for Pep.</p>
<p>Fergie, I love you. And I thank you with my whole heart, which is proudly and entirely devoted to <em>your </em>Red Devils. But this is what is best for the club, a club that, no matter how difficult for us United supporters to comprehend, will live on long after you do. You <em>are</em> the greatest of all time.</p>
<p><em>By Matthew Guinto; Red Devil, Red Bull, Ready... follow him on twitter <a href="#!/mattguintofooty">@mattguintofooty</a></em></p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
Matt Guinto
2012-04-28T05:24:00Z
The Barcelona Complex: Dictating the Evolution of Modern Football
Luke Van Patten
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/The-Barcelona-Complex:-Dictating-the-Evolution-of-Modern-Football/-41349521370679236.html
2012-04-28T05:04:00Z
2012-04-28T05:04:00Z
<p>On a Spring night in Barcelona, the history of football was seemingly re-written. The dusted pages of a Spanish chapter that had seemed to last for ages, were now covered with blue ink.</p>
<p>It was a game that encompassed every shade of color in the emotional palette. A center back for each team sustains an injury and leaves the match--before the half. Followed by John Terry’s mindlessly petty red-card on Alexis Sanchez, leading <a href="http://bleacherreport.com/chelsea">Chelsea</a> to play a man down. Barcelona taking the aggregate lead, Ramires oh-so silkily taking it back, Messi vs. Cech, and a moment carried by <a href="http://bleacherreport.com/fernando-torres">Fernando Torres</a> that suddenly stopped the space-time continuum, as we know it.</p>
<p>El Nino’s engagement of a 50 yard 1v1 with one of the best goalies in the world, felt more like the ending of FIFA 12’ match I’d be watching my friends play on a Saturday night at 2:00 A.M. in a beer bottle ridden living room, than an ending to a UEFA Champions League semi-final second leg.</p>
<p>The pale white storm of whisking blonde locks and unsure feet marooned towards destiny at a nauseatingly, slower than you’d expect, kind of pace. Yet, in two touches of the right foot, at the right moment, every recessive deviation of the Spaniard’s game in the past year was made null and void, at the same instance as the dreams and innards of this legendary Barcelona team shattered furiously onto the wet grass of the Nou Camp.</p>
<p>This games lasting impact though, will be felt ultimately in not what it has shown us about where football is now, but where it is headed.</p>
<p>It is hard to believe that a spectacle dripping with such theatrical advances could also be so full of academic revelations. The entirety of this game’s learning experiences lay within the minds of the Barcelona players, and no where else, no credit at all being taken away from Fernando’s special moment and Chelsea as a club.</p>
<p>How could a group of such brilliant and insanely well-trained footballers, who for the past 7 years have unlocked the darkest secrets of footballing genius and tactics, and exchanged whispers with deities of their sport, be so furiously and monotonously helpless when it mattered the most?</p>
<p>How could a team set on a crash course with immortality, a team that had erected their identity on delivering their most quality football in the most clutch moments, suddenly fail to be themselves?</p>
<p>The answer is sadly simple, as it is their inability to be anything BUT themselves. </p>
<p>They walked off the field, owning neither a victory nor a spot in the 2012 Champions League Final, only possessing the sickening knowledge that they tried to do things their way to get the result they desired, and failed over two legs. </p>
<p>It is both sad and pathetic to think that the Barcelona players are content leaving the Nou Camp that night holding on solely to the fact that they never deviated from the Cruyff inspired, Guardiola system of playing, breathing, and living.</p>
<p>It is not within the human realm of emotion to celebrate with insane elation, and then lose with complacency and rationalization. It is a mantra and philosophy that is complex and bold of the Catalonian outfit to attempt to implement. A philosophy which ties into what is both Barcelona’s arrogance and their brilliance: displaying the utmost adherence to a tactical system at any and all costs; no matter the score, injury development, aggregate tie, weather conditions, or any other twisted extra-dimensional scenario all you “Sliders” fans are thinking of right now.<br /><br />Yes, if Barcelona were on a soccer field riddled with synthetic grass and alien plasma mines, playing against dinosaur-robot/androids, in the snow, they would still try to deftly pass and poke their way into their opponent’s goal, and consequently their well being into oblivion.</p>
<p>Such faith is an admirable thing. But the laws of life and football present difficult obstacles for Barcelona.</p>
<p>The best soccer coaches in the world will train their players to adapt to the variability of the sport. While defending, their players will anticipate every pass, every bounce, every deflection, and when going forward, ruthlessly force their opposition to do the same.</p>
<p>And this Catalonian club, for the first ten years of this century, has been a team that epitomizes excellence at displaying a versatility and creativity in their approach to scoring goals and ultimately from this gift, winning games. This singular act is an epic display of beauty in its own right.</p>
<p>But what Barcelona refuses to acknowledge, is that sometimes, life is ugly. When you get denied from your first-choice college, when that hot girl at the bar is taken, when your car breaks down on your way to work, one must always have a “Plan B”; an undesired but still effective alternative to the norm, as a means to ensure survival and success.</p>
<p>On this spring night at the Nou Camp, Guardiola’s men failed to adapt. They failed to show variability and creativity in attempting to score on 10 men. In the end, their relentless creativity crippled their ability to adapt the RIGHT way. </p>
<p>The greatest footballing minds my generation will probably ever be privileged enough to watch, stubbornly failed at implementing their glorified and hallowed tactical philosophy on a depleted West London side who are currently 6<sup>th</sup> in the Premiership, for 45 minutes over the second leg, and some would pompously argue, for 180 minutes, over both legs.<br /><br />Adaptability is the most intrinsic concept in football, and all sports for that matter. And for the world’s perennial footballing powerhouses, embracing such a concept is not at all as commonplace as it should be.</p>
<p>The world’s top teams are conditioned, almost at a disadvantage to play their football in a style specific to the opposition in their respective leagues.</p>
<p>When tactical and personnel based curve-balls are thrown on the biggest of stages, we have seen some of Europe’s most elite struggle in recent years; <a href="http://bleacherreport.com/manchester-united">Manchester United</a>with <a href="http://bleacherreport.com/fc-basel">FC Basel</a> in Champions League and then even more glaringly with <a href="http://bleacherreport.com/ajax">Ajax</a> and Athletic Bilboa in the Europa League this year; and Barcelona in 2010 against <a href="http://bleacherreport.com/inter-milan">Inter Milan</a>, and again against Chelsea in 2012.</p>
<p>For all of those who rejoiced with soar lungs and uncontrollably emoted when the unbeatable Spainards were finally beaten, when the Spanish dragon was finally slain, they should note first that even though the Catalonians lost, they are still dictating the pace of the evolution of modern football, and half been since the turn of the century.</p>
<p>Chelsea’s master class defensive performance was a spectacle created in response to the Barcelona system. Chelsea FC does not notoriously play their strikers at left back to neutralize their oppositions, they have never played wingers at center back to stifle or eradicate offensive chances. </p>
<p>The growth and evolution of Barcelona’s complex possession based attack, has forced the rest of the cells in the footballing Petri dish to expand and change in their defense. And for 90 minutes on Tuesday night in Spain, the Nou Camp was our Galapagos. The weak had evolved and adapted, efficiently enough, to thwart the Barcelona way when it counted most.<br /><br />Barcelona, so well trained and driven by their DNA to execute the game a certain way, chose not to even entertain a change, and Natural Selection did the rest.</p>
<p>As sure as one can be of Barcelona presence in next year’s Champions League with every intention of winning the trophy, one can also be sure the team they will bring to that tournament will have undergone many tactical evolutionary changes of its own by that time….I would hope.</p>
<p>Let it be duly noted at this time though, that the stubbornness of the Catalonians should not be overlooked.</p>
<p>It is hard then to decide which spectacle is more frightening: an unchanged Barcelona side fueled by the determination of failure and retribution, or how big the impending evolutionary gap will be when the Catalonians finally complete their next phase of growth.</p>
<p>For the time being, the history of football unfolds, as the evolution of Barcelona unfolds. And that isn’t such a bad thing to watch.</p>
Luke Van Patten
2012-04-28T05:04:00Z
Galatasaray masterpiece ends in 1-2 Defeat
Aydin Reyhan
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Galatasaray-masterpiece-ends-in-1-2-Defeat/565790347966792920.html
2012-04-24T02:12:00Z
2012-04-24T02:12:00Z
<p>The home side started out a bit slowly which lead to Fenerbahce’s opening goal by left-back Reto Ziegler. The Swiss international made a quick run down the middle and was spotted by captain Alex De Souza who sent him through. Then, he simply slotted the ball into the bottom far corner past Uruguayan international keeper Fernando Muslera.</p>
<p>Galatasaray piled on the pressure with chance after chance but the first half would end 0-1 to the visitors.</p>
<p>Twenty-three minutes into the second half, Gala finally netted their equalizer as Selcuk Inan curled in a free kick from twenty yards out. Twenty-two minutes were remaining.</p>
<p>Just a minute after scoring, the home side almost scored their second off of a counter attack when Johan Elmander sent in a teaser in front of goal that rolled past the keeper and the defense but no one was there to tap it home for the lead.</p>
<p>After four more unsuccessful chances by Gala, the visitors constructed a near perfect counter-attack which ended with the winning goal. Substitute Miroslav Stoch darted past the defense to latch onto the through ball and curled his shot past Muslera into the back of the net. There was ten minutes left on the clock.</p>
<p>Galatasaray missed one equalizing chance after another. Five minutes from time, Elmander volleyed the ball after a quick bounce but it soared well over the cross bar.</p>
<p>The best chance arrived two minutes later when Elmander’s cross reached a wide open Milan Baros whose header sliced past the near post. That chance summed up the home side’s night.</p>
<p>Galatasaray took a total of 28 shots which found the target 9 times while Fenerbahce took five shots with four of them reaching goal.</p>
<p>The home side took more corner kicks, had more possession, committed less fouls, and as previously stated, outshot their opponents. The visitors capitalized on defensive mistakes while Gala simply missed most of their opportunities.</p>
<p>With four matches remaining before the champion is crowned, Galatasaray will look to bounce back away at Trabzonspor this weeked. During the regular season, Gala were victorious by the score of 3-0 at Trabzon. In the second meeting in Istanbul, the two sides shared the spoils at one goal apiece. Now, with one win and loss apiece, both will look to win their second.</p>
<p>Galatasaray sit two points ahead of Fenerbahce atop the play-off standings and will look to win every remaining game, especially the return match on the final day away to Fenerbahce.</p>
<p>During the regular season, Gala defeated Fener 3-0 at home and drew 2-2 away. In the return match, Fener led 2-0 but Gala scored twice to equalize. In the final seconds, Selcuk Inan’s free kick was volleyed off the cross bar by Milan Baros, just missing the comeback victory. The game on May 12 will make or break their championship hopes if both teams are 1, 2, or three points apart or of course, if they are dead even.</p>
<p>The next four games will define Galatasaray’s character as a team under pressure. After losing 1-2 at home in front of their beloved fans against their arch rivals, they have four games to gain their trust back. Fenerbahce’s players danced in the middle of Gala’s field after the final whistle. The fans calmed the nerve and did nothing. They respected the victors and allowed to celebrate in the heart of their house. The players will look to repay their fans. Galatasaray have four matches to prove that they deserve to be crowned new champions of Turkey. </p>
Aydin Reyhan
2012-04-24T02:12:00Z
The Curse Has Ended
A.J. Nelson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/The-Curse-Has-Ended/-91142432392480279.html
2012-04-23T17:49:00Z
2012-04-23T17:49:00Z
The first league game under Mourinho’s tenure would be the worst - a 5-0 thrashing at Barcelona. The second, in Madrid, would be a 1-1 draw. Then there was the semi-finals of the Champions League: a 2-0 loss and a 1-1 draw sent Barcelona to the Champions League Final. There would be a consolatory Copa Del Rey title, but as the “official score” would be 1-1, it was not an outright win. The year 1 tally would be bleak with 5 games and no wins against their arch rivals as Real Madrid had to watch them lift not only the league trophy, but become European Champions as well.
<p>The 2011-2012 season gave Madridistas renewed hope with Barcelona struggling in pre-season where Madrid soared. However, the results would be the same: a 2-2 draw and 3-2 loss in the Spanish Super Cup would give Barcelona their first trophy of the season. A December loss at the Bernabeu would add to Madrid’s worries. Even with a lead in La Liga, losing to their rivals at home was not what anyone hoped for. They would face each other yet again in the Copa Del Rey quarterfinals, but a 2-1 loss and 2‑2 draw would advance Barcelona and leave the rest of us wondering what magic Pep Guardiola is using against Madrid.</p>
<p>The trip to the Camp Nou had to be of significant concern for Madrid. A loss to Barcelona and the possibility became very real that the league title could go to Barcelona yet again. Madrid’s loss to Bayern Munich in the first leg of the Champions League semi-finals would not help their concerns. Given that the second leg would be a mere 4 days after the Barcelona game, many believed Madrid would play for a draw. Of course, given that Barcelona does not lose at the Camp Nou, a draw would be an acceptable outcome for most. Madrid had other plans.</p>
<p>It would not be Madrid’s best offensive game. Quite frankly, although they went a goal up to start (by a surprising goal scorer, Sami Khedira), most figured Barcelona would come back to beat them. They had many times before and at the 70<sup>th</sup> minute, they showed they could again when sub, Alexis Sanchez, scored the tying goal after multiple stops by Iker Casillas and his defenders. </p>
<p>However, it was at that moment things changed for Madrid. Real Madrid’s defense stepped up. They had been playing a great game, but after the tying goal, they played better than before. Álvaro Arbeloa and Fábio Coentrao, in particular get special mention. They are not considered the superstars, but they played like them on Saturday night. Credit also has to be given to Karim Benzema. He played forward, but when called upon, he stormed back to be a much needed additional defender.</p>
<p>In the end, however, it was Cristiano Ronaldo who made the game-winning difference. He has been criticized time and time again for being “absent” in the big games. He was quiet for much of this game, but not absent. When Sanchez scored, it was Ronaldo, less than 3 minutes later who would score a beautiful goal to put Los Blancos ahead once again. When the final whistle blew, the curse had finally been broken and in dramatic fashion. Madrid fans were smiling and Barcelona fans were grumbling. The league is now Real Madrid’s to lose. They hold a 7 point lead in La Liga and the party at the Plaza de Cibeles is almost certain. They need a win on Wednesday against Bayern Munich, but the Champions League final is also within their grasp. A week ago, their dream season was in jeopardy. After Saturday, it is on the brink of near perfection.</p>
<p><em>A.J. Nelson can be found on Twitter @FootieObsessed</em></p>
A.J. Nelson
2012-04-23T17:49:00Z
Premier League Recap (April 21-22)
Adam Johnson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Premier-League-Recap-April-21-22/-387497193072184794.html
2012-04-23T05:25:00Z
2012-04-23T05:25:00Z
<p>All 20 teams were in action on an old fashioned Saturday-Sunday weekend in the Premier League. Here is how those games played out.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Arsenal 0-0 Chelsea</span></p>
<p>In a battle of Champions League hopefuls, the neutral was the one who was left disappointed. This wasn’t necessarily a boring 0-0 but one that could’ve been so much more. Chelsea really needed three points and Arsenal could’ve used them, but the Gunners have to be the ones who will go home satisfied with a point.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Aston Villa 0-0 Sunderland</span></p>
<p>Neither of these teams really needed this game. In fact, it was the most meaningless game of the weekend and the 0-0 score signified that statement.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Blackburn 2-0 Norwich</span></p>
<p>Norwich really doesn’t have much to play for anymore while Blackburn has everything to play for. That’s why this 2-0 victory had the home fans cheering deliriously. Mauro Formica and David Hoilett scored for Blackburn to see off the visiting Canaries. Well done, but there is plenty more work for Steve Kean to do if he wants another season in the league.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Bolton 1-1 Swansea</span></p>
<p>Thankfully, Fabrice Muamba is recovering well and looks like he might get to return to a normal life. Unfortunately, for Bolton, his near tragedy has put them behind in matches played. The Wanderers got a point on Saturday when Chris Eagles nullified an early Scott Sinclair strike, but Owen Coyle’s boys still remain in the drop zone. The two games in hand now only help if they can get something from them.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Fulham 2-1 Wigan</span></p>
<p>So Wigan beats Manchester United and Arsenal then loses to Fulham? I guess this is what makes this league exciting, but still. Emmerson Boyce gave Wigan the lead but Pavel Pogrebnyak came right back and leveled things for Fulham. Then just a minute from the full time whistle, Phillipe Senderos got the winner for the Cottagers and ended Wigan’s impressive streak.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Newcastle 3-0 Stoke</span></p>
<p>Alan Pardew’s men just keep rolling along. Saturday’s win over Stoke was their sixth in a row and fourth place is a very real target for the club. The goal scorers Yohan Cabaye (twice) and Papiss Cisse, were fantastic all afternoon along with Hatem Ben Arfa and Demba Ba. The attacking talent rivals any of the teams around them and with a game in hand on Arsenal, third place isn’t out of the question.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">QPR 1-0 Tottenham</span></p>
<p>Spurs slide continued on Saturday with a 1-0 away loss at Loftus Road. QPR maverick, Adel Taarabt, kept himself busy with a great free kick that turned out to be the winner, and a red card in the second half. Rangers held strong, however, and a goal never came from Tottenham. QPR are that much closer to another year in the EPL.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Manchester United 4-4 Everton</span></p>
<p>This was the match of the season, for me. This past week I had voted on the 20 year Premier League awards and was reminded of a 4-4 that took place a few years ago between Liverpool and Arsenal. All I wanted was another one of those, and if it affected the title race, even better. Well, I got that match and it definitely affected the title race. Everton jumped out to a lead when Nikica Jelavic scored but a Wayne Rooney strike would make sure the score was level at halftime. Danny Welbeck then gave United the lead with a perfectly struck curling shot. Nani then made it 3-1 with a chipped finish after some great movement from Welbeck and Rooney. The Toffees fought back and Marouane Fellaini (who was probably the man of the match) hit a volley past David de Gea. It was 4-2 after Rooney tapped in and you would think that was that. Everton had something more to give and Jelavic, then Steven Pienaar, improbably made it 4-4 with 5 minutes to go. It would stay that way after Fergie time and Everton would claim a famous away point. Title race still on.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Liverpool 0-1 West Brom</span></p>
<p>The home form at Anfield has been dreadful all season and Saturday was no different. A Peter Odemwingie goal, 15 minutes from time, gave West Brom all three points. How West Brom didn’t allow a goal in this match is beyond me. The Reds racked up 28 shots on goal and had 15 corners! Just like Barcelona found out against Chelsea last week, though, the game is about taking chances. Liverpool is in danger of falling out of the top <em>eight.</em></p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Wolves 0-2 Manchester City</span></p>
<p>You have to believe that once City caught wind of the United draw, they would be licking their chops at getting to feast on last placed Wolves. Well, it wasn’t the 5-0 drubbing some might have expected, but it got the job done. Sergio Aguero and Samir Nasri scored on either side of halftime to give Man City the win.</p>
<p>So it is all to play for at the Etihad next Monday. This has to be the biggest Manchester derby of all time. I can’t wait for that game but as for this weekend’s top performers, I am going with Yohan Cabaye of Newcastle and Everton as the team of the week for not rolling over after being down by two goals two different times at Old Trafford. That was a wild game to wrap up a pretty eventful weekend. Only three more to go.</p>
Adam Johnson
2012-04-23T05:25:00Z
Timbers End Losing Streak & Sporting KC's 100% With Home Win 1-0
Mark Henty
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Timbers-End-Losing-Streak--Sporting-KCs-100-With-Home-Win-1-0/-630055043956584281.html
2012-04-22T04:41:00Z
2012-04-22T04:41:00Z
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Portland</strong><strong> Timbers vs. Sporting Kansas City</strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>April 21, 2012</strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>MLS Game 7:30pm Kick Off</strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Weather: Sunny, 64F</strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"> </p>
<p><strong>Match Report:</strong></p>
<p><strong> </strong> After a run of 4 consecutive defeats, the Portland Timbers were looking to stop the rot and get some kind of result at home against the early MLS pace-setters, Sporting Kansas City who had won all 7 of their matches including a 3-1 victory at home to Vancouver on Wednesday night. From the heady heights of that opening day victory over the Philadelphia Union at JELD-WEN field, the Timbers had slumped into a run of form that they could well do without, especially when they were heavily tipped at the start of the season to improve on their inaugural season. Late lapses in concentration have cost them dear in games against Real Salt Lake an away at the LA Galaxy but they were hoping to get their season back on track with the hope of a home win against the league leaders.</p>
<p> The Timbers team sheet before the game left many very surprised as it seemed that Head Coach John Spencer had dropped the talented Eric Alexander to the bench and was seemingly going with Darlington Nagbe and Diego Chara on the wings. Just as surprising was the move to put Lovell Palmer in a position that we rarely see him in at Central Midfield. The Coach was certainly looking to shuffle the pack and was obviously unhappy with the recent run of form. Would it pay off and be a masterstroke of genius from the wee Scot? Or prove to be a disaster and send the loyal Timbers army home with a 5<sup>th</sup> straight defeat?</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>1<sup>st</sup> Half:</strong></p>
<p><strong> </strong> The Portland Timbers began the match in spritely fashion and had the better of the early exchanges albeit without really creating any clear-cut opportunities but after 9 minutes, it was the Timbers' Troy Perkins who was the first goalkeeper to be called into any sort of real action as he saved from Kei Kamara from close range. After seeing out the first 15 minutes of mild Portland pressure quite comfortably, Sporting KC began to get a foothold in the game and got their 'on the deck' passing going to decent effect, forcing corners and free kicks in areas where Portland didn't want to concede them. Eric Brunner in particular and Keeper Perkins ensured though that Sportings' set-pieces came to nothing.</p>
<p> The game was lacking any real flow, with numerous fouls being committed and stoppages for throw-ins as possession swung from one side to the other. The Timbers were scurrying around with decent endeavor but the physicality of the Sporting side was often coming out on top with 50/50 balls and they looked like a side quite happy to try to get to half-time at 0-0. On 42 minutes though, Sporting would have their feathers ruffled through a very fortuitous goal when Kris Boyd was put through down the right wing by Diego Chara and whipped in a right footed cross into the general area that Jorge Perlaza and Chara were heading into at the near post. The ball cleared them both but Sporting defenders Chance Myers and Julio Cesar got into a real mix up and the ball careened off Myers head past a helpless Jimmy Nielsen in the Sporting goal. <strong>42 Mins, Goal Timbers! Por (Myers OG) 1-0 SKC.</strong></p>
<p><strong> </strong><strong> </strong>The Timbers had a couple of minor scares going into to half-time but were able to hold the 1-0 lead as the referee blew the whistle to bring the Timbers Army once again to its feet. Could David knock down Goliath? It was not a pretty half of soccer and that's often how Sporting KC like it, but the spritely and lionhearted Timbers were more than happy to have stood toe to toe in that first half. The question now would be, "can the Timbers finally hold on to or build on a lead without blowing it in the last 15-20 minutes?"</p>
<p><strong>Half-Time: Portland Timbers 1-0 Sporting KC</strong></p>
<p><strong> </strong></p>
<p><strong>2<sup>nd</sup> Half:</strong></p>
<p> Less than two minutes into the 2<sup>nd</sup> half and the Timbers created their best chance of the night when Diego Chara was released down the right hand side and he played a sublime ball across to where both Jorge Perlaza and Kris Boyd were waiting. Perlaza seemingly left it for Boyd who struck it well but Sporting keeper Jimmy Nielsen was able to palm the ball over the bar. The Timbers were pushing much further forward and playing without fear in the early stages of the 2<sup>nd</sup> half, taking the game to Sporting who themselves were seemingly waking up to the fact that they were faced with the possibility of losing their first match of the season.</p>
<p> Again, as in the first half, it was very much a cat and mouse affair with the imposing Sporting KC looking dangerous when they got forward and players like C.J. Sapong and Kei Kamara were beginning to ask questions of the Timbers defense. There were a few flash-points during the game often involving Eric Brunner of Portland and Aurelien Collin of Sporting KC and this added a little extra spice to a match that was opening up more and more as the half went on.</p>
<p> As the match reached the final 15 minutes the Timbers Army was all to aware of how recent games had brought late misfortune to their team and there were a few nervy moments, none more so than in the 2<sup>nd</sup> of 4 minutes of stoppage time when Matt Besler lobbed in one of his trademark long throws which slipped through Troy Perkins hands, fortunately Timbers Centre Back Hanyer Mosquera was on hand to clear the ball off the line. As the whistle blew after almost 5 minutes of injury time, the Timbers Army gave an almighty roar as their team pulled off an immense victory at JELD-WEN field.</p>
<p><strong>Full Time: Portland Timbers 1-0 Sporting KC</strong></p>
<p><strong><br />Summary:</strong></p>
<p> This was a scrappy game that had few clear cut opportunities but that will matter not to the supporters of the Portland Timbers who showed real fight and stood up to the formerly unbeaten Sporting KC. The decision to play Lovell Palmer alongside Jack Jewsbury in the center of the midfield did indeed prove to be a masterstroke as they helped to stifle the Kansas attack and reduce them to mostly efforts from outside the penalty area. Eric Brunner had an excellent game and gets my Man Of The Match vote, Troy Perkins looked decent between the posts and Boyd was his usual self, holding the ball up well, bringing players like Nagbe and Chara into the attacks who themselves did decent jobs down the flanks. All in all, a fine, battling performance from the Timbers, especially when you consider their recent poor run of form and just whom they were facing tonight. <strong>Grade: A-</strong></p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>League Record:</strong></p>
<p><strong>P W D L F A Pts</strong></p>
<p>7 2 1 4 9 11 7</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Mark Henty,</p>
<p>World Football Daily Portland Timbers Correspondent.</p>
Mark Henty
2012-04-22T04:41:00Z
Looking Back Into The Future Of The MLS
Matt Guinto
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Looking-Back-Into-The-Future-Of-The-MLS/783981231066689762.html
2012-04-22T04:01:00Z
2012-04-22T04:01:00Z
<p>Sunday, April 22, 2012; 6:00PM ET. In a warm, noisy atmosphere at our nation’s capital, New York visits Eastern Conference foes DC United.</p>
<p><em>The Good Guy(s):</em> <em>New York Red Bulls, Ryan Meara</em></p>
<p>Truly homegrown talent, Meara, 21, grew up in Yonkers and attended local Fordham University before going to the Red Bulls as the 31<sup>st</sup> overall pick in the MLS SuperDraft. Since joining, he has asserted himself as starting keeper, playing the full 90 in each of their first six games. However, he has conceded over 1.5 goals per game on average and has yet to keep a clean sheet. So why is he earning such positive recognition from around the league? Tied for second overall with 22 saves – one less than the current leader – he has really been quite better than the stats show. Of course, he has also been heavily aided by his side’s free flowing attack, which has scored 16 times (that’s nearly 3 per game). Nevertheless, if the 31 shutouts in his college career are any indication, I expect he’ll get off the mark soon. What better game to do it than this.</p>
<p><em>The Bad Guy(s): DC United, Nick DeLeon</em></p>
<p>If Meara is the hometown ‘good guy’, DeLeon, also 21, is the rebel. Appropriate then that he attended the University of Nevada, Las Vegas – the Rebels of Sin City, mind you – before transferring to the University of Louisville. He was picked up seventh overall by DC United and came on to score in his first appearance, earning a starting role for every game thereafter. He runs a well-orchestrated midfield and plays an important role in his side’s attack, scoring two and creating three already. DeLeon will need to continue that run of form for a side that is struggling somewhat at both ends; they’ve only scored 8 and conceded 7 in their first seven games. If he is to grab a third this season, what better game to do it than this.</p>
<p><em>The Story</em></p>
<p>What is a good melodrama without some…drama? Despite what some journalists are saying, I can prove this isn’t ‘Act One’ for these early Rookie of the Year candidates.</p>
<p>It was the 10<sup>th</sup> of September. The year was 2010. It was an overcast 72-degree night and some 1,113 spectators looked on (this all according to the box score review). Meara had led his Fordham Rams nobly down to Kentucky for the first time in school history. There, waiting for them, stood DeLeon and his squad (I assume it all went something like that). As the game wore on in the second half, Louisville struck twice past Meara, one assisted by DeLeon, and Fordham left defeated. Yes, this was ‘Act One’…seen by few, retold by even fewer. Now, years later, we watch wondering – no, <em>hoping</em> – that Meara and the Red Bulls can triumph in an important Eastern Conference battle.</p>
<p>But still the plot for this saga goes further than the spotlight and beyond the young characters on which it shines. Every story has a betrayer, someone you once called a teammate, now an enemy – for this tale, it is Dwayne De Rosario. New York made a real mess in their trade with Toronto, losing the 12<sup>th</sup> overall pick to procure the services of the MLS All-Star. However, his place in the side was brief and he was offloaded shortly to none other than DC United.</p>
<p>More notable than De Rosario, however, is what could have been for the Red Bulls. Consider that with the 12<sup>th</sup> pick Toronto chose Aaron Maund, yet another 21 year old. If you haven’t heard, Maund is the 6 foot 1 inch center back filling the void left by Toronto’s German international Torsten Frings. Not a bad player, then. As Sports Illustrated’s Grant Wahl noted, it is hard to believe in “a spine” that is made up of Rafa Márquez – who I think we can all agree is more of a liability at this point – Wilman Conde and rookie goalie Ryan Meara. Well, with Márquez suspended by the MLS Disciplinary Committee (like I said: liability) and Conde out injured, that 12<sup>th</sup> pick lost could be all the more costly.</p>
<p>If the Red Bulls do struggle to defend against DeLeon and DC United, they will lose; and fans will be left to wonder about what could’ve been a long-time partnership in the back. Then, as for our hero, Meara will once again head back to the city, defeated by DeLeon.</p>
<p>We can hope for Macbeth-inspired twists and turns and bloody battles, but because my Wiki-sources for theatre seem so highly unreliable, there is just one thing I know for certain: Sunday night will merely be ‘Act Two’ in a long, dramatic tale of young MLS talents.</p>
<p><em>By Matthew Guinto; Red Devil, Red Bull, Ready... follow him on twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/#!/mattguintofooty">@mattguintofooty</a></em></p>
<p class="separator"> </p>
Matt Guinto
2012-04-22T04:01:00Z
Nike Unveils New US Kits...In Style
Luke Van Patten
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Nike-Unveils-New-US-Kits...In-Style/574435773338871419.html
2012-04-18T15:34:00Z
2012-04-18T15:34:00Z
<p><strong>NIKE SOCCER UNVEILS THE NEW US MEN’S AND WOMEN’S NATIONAL SOCCER TEAM KITS</strong></p>
<p>The new USA home kit combines heritage and patriotism in a bold new design that both the Men and Women’s teams will debut on the pitch this summer. The jersey utilizes the colors of the American flag with a blue crew neck collar and a body featuring red and white stripes.</p>
<p>The shirt also features a tonal sash to echo the same design on the shirts worn by the US Men’s National Team when they famously defeated England in the 1950 Finals in Brazil.</p>
<p>Both kits are visually identical but the women’s kit is designed specifically for the female athlete to enhance range of motion creating a uniquely feminine silhouette. The American Stars and Stripes flag, affectionately known as ‘Old Glory,’ is placed inside the back of the neck of both versions to inspire pride.</p>
<p>The new home shorts are blue, while the socks, now with improved cushioning for greater comfort, movement and protection, are white with a blue band at the top.</p>
<p>In line with Nike’s commitment combining athletic performance with lower environmental impact, each kit is made using an average of 13 recycled plastic bottles. The new kit's shorts are made with 100% Dri-FIT recycled polyester and the shirt with a minimum 96% Dri-FIT recycled polyester. Overall the new kit is 23% lighter and 20% stronger than Nike’s previous kits.</p>
<p>Nike Dri-FIT is proprietary technology that works to wick away moisture helping to regulate player’s temperature during a match. The shirts also feature laser-cut ventilation holes to promote localized cooling where it matters most.<br /><br /> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Su12_USA_MEN_HOME_DONOVAN.jpg" alt="" /></p>
<p><strong>NIKE PRO COMBAT</strong></p>
<p>A kit built from the inside out, the US players will wear Nike Pro Combat base layer underneath their match day apparel.</p>
<p>Included in the collection is the Nike Pro Combat Hypercool 2.0 top, which consists of ventilation and sweat-wicking fabric to help keep players cool and comfortable. In colder weather the Thermal Mock top features a mock neck and brushed inner surface reflecting heat back to the body without trapping moisture.</p>
<p>The Nike Pro Combat Hyperstrong compression men's slider shorts feature a padded waist and thigh protection in the most critical areas to provide protection during the rigors of the game. Mesh fabric is placed in high heat zones for breathability. </p>
Luke Van Patten
2012-04-18T15:34:00Z
Premier League and FA Cup Semi's Recap (April 14-16)
Adam Johnson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Premier-League-and-FA-Cup-Semis-Recap-April-14-16/-906005712815524166.html
2012-04-16T22:56:00Z
2012-04-16T22:56:00Z
<p>Because of the FA Cup semi’s this weekend, there were only six Premier League games played from Saturday to Monday. The Manchester clubs were in action, however, so here is a recap of those six games plus the two semi-finals at Wembley.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Liverpool 2-1 Everton (FA Cup Semi)</span></p>
<p>The Merseyside derby made its way to Wembley on Saturday and a hero was made out of a man that has been a disappointment since making his way to Liverpool 15 months ago. That’s right, Andy Carroll, got the winner and will go down in history now as a player who scored to send Liverpool to yet another final. The match started quickly with both sides up for it but the tempo slowed before Everton took the lead. It was Nikica Jelavic who pounced on a mistake from Jamie Carragher and Martin Skyrtel to put the Toffees in front. Not to be outdone by his Liverpool counterparts, Sylvain Distin made a huge mistake of his own when his backpass to Tim Howard was way under hit and Luis Suarez pounced and finished to make it 1-1. The second half wore on and it looked like extra time would be necessary. Then Carroll popped up and headed in a Craig Bellamy free kick to win it for the Reds. On to their second cup final of the season.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Norwich 1-6 Manchester City</span></p>
<p>This match started with lightning quick pace and Norwich actually looked like they would hang for a little while. Carlos Tevez scored the opener with an absolute screamer past John Ruddy but the Canaries kept coming. Unfortunately for them, Man City boasts an insane attack when all players are in the mood. Sergio Aguero used a brilliant Tevez back heel to make it 2-0 before halftime. Andrew Surman pulled one back for Norwich in the second half but then City kicked it into high gear. They exploded for four straight, two more from Tevez for a hat trick, one more for Aguero, and topped off by Adam Johnson. Job done for the blue side of Manchester.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Sunderland 0-0 Wolves</span></p>
<p>Wolves need any points they can get but they are down already so what does it really matter? Plus, Sunderland isn’t playing for much at this point, hence a 0-0.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Swansea 3-0 Blackburn</span></p>
<p>This was exactly what Swansea needed to bounce back from a couple of poor matches. Blackburn came in need of points but got none as the Swans were back to their passing selves. Gylfi Sigurdsson and Nathan Dyer scored fine first half goals to combine with a Scott Dann own goal in the second half to make it three goals and three points for Swansea.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">West Brom 1-0 QPR</span></p>
<p>QPR’s 1-0 loss at West Brom was just another team in the relegation zone that lost this weekend. Graham Dorrans, in the 22<sup>nd</sup> minute, let loose a blast that would turn out to be the only goal of the game. Both sides created a plethora of chances but it stayed 1-0. Rangers sit two points clear at the moment but they need a few more points to survive to play in the Premier League next season.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Manchester United 4-0 Aston Villa</span></p>
<p>Ashley Young went down easily, again, and Wayne Rooney converted the penalty to open the scoring early for the Red Devils. Manchester United never looked back. Danny Welbeck made it 2-0 late in the first half and Rooney and Nani added second half goals to complete the romp.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Chelsea 5-1 Tottenham (FA Cup Semi)</span></p>
<p>The 5-1 score line that this match ended up having was not really fair to the team who suffered it. Wembley Stadium in the evening is a spectacle, as was Didier Drogba’s opening goal for Chelsea. He chested down a ball, used strength to hold off William Gallas, turned brilliantly, and then fired a bullet with his left foot that left Spurs’ keeper Carlo Cudicini with no chance. It stayed 1-0 until halftime but that lead was doubled, wrongly when someone for Chelsea bundled it “in”. Replays showed that the ball, bouncing around in a penalty box scramble, never crossed the line. Tottenham fans and players were pissed, rightly, but they fought back and Gareth Bale got them a goal to make it a game again. 20 minutes later, and with neither side really getting going, Ramires sealed the deal for Chelsea with a fantastic goal. Frank Lampard added a great free kick and Florent Malouda a tap in to wrap up a rout that may have never been if we only had goal line technology.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Arsenal 1-2 Wigan</span></p>
<p>This was an extraordinarily open first half. That was due to the fact that Wigan scored twice within the first eight minutes. The Emirates crowd was stunned as Franco di Santo and Jordi Gomez each netted to give Wigan a shock lead and shake Arsenal up. The Gunners started to throw everything at Wigan and eventually got a goal when Thomas Vermaelen rose to head home. It stayed 2-1 until halftime. Arsenal kept coming in the second half but Wigan held firm as Arsene Wenger (and his puffy, hysterically-long coat) grew more frustrated by the minute. The home side started to look tired after trying so hard to equalize. A special shoutout to Victor Moses, who looked great for Wigan and took players on every chance he could. This win edged Roberto Martinez’s men ever so much closer to safety.</p>
<p>Now we know that the FA Cup Final will be Chelsea v. Liverpool and that the race for the Champions League is back to four fighting for two. The Manchester clubs each held up their side of the bargain while Wigan gained a massive three points. These last four games are going to be thrilling.</p>
Adam Johnson
2012-04-16T22:56:00Z
Houston Dynamo 'Would Avoid Relegation'
Matt Guinto
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Houston-Dynamo-Would-Avoid-Relegation/-320286155189265254.html
2012-04-16T15:39:00Z
2012-04-16T15:39:00Z
<p>I recently sat down with good friend and ex-teammate of mine, Chris Maxwell of the Houston Dynamo staff, and got the low-down on his new employers as they enter their seventh MLS campaign. We discussed what the near future holds for Houston, their dirty laundry, and avoiding the drop in the English Premier League, during the course of this fun conversation.<br /><br /></p>
<p><em><strong>Matt Guinto: </strong>Chris, nice to be able to speak with you today, of course. Good friend of mine, yea.</em></p>
<p><em><strong>Chris Maxwell: </strong>Yea, man, it’s a pleasure.</em></p>
<p><em><strong>Guinto:</strong> Why don’t we start by just telling me a bit about what it is you do for the Houston Dynamo.</em></p>
<p><em><strong>Maxwell: </strong>Sure. Well, my official title is Soccer Operations Coordinator. I work a lot as an assistant equipment manager to Michael Porter; basically just supervise practices and games, make sure the equipment is all there, all of the sponsor logos are visible for the media, see that the players all have the appropriate gear that they require, and so on. Even do the laundry. (Laughs)</em></p>
<p><em><strong>Guinto: </strong>Excellent. Sounds like you stay busy and get your hands dirty then. How does one fall into that sort of position?</em></p>
<p><em><strong>Maxwell: </strong>Started off as an intern in the Operations Department and just really fell into it by offering to help out and do a little extra.</em></p>
<p><em><strong>Guinto: </strong>Okay, then. So basically you get to watch the team practice and play on match day so --</em></p>
<p><em><strong>Maxwell: </strong>Right.</em></p>
<p><em><strong>Guinto: </strong>-- so maybe you can offer a little inside scoop. Give us an idea of a quality player we should be looking to see breakthrough in the MLS sometime soon for Houston.</em></p>
<p><em><strong>Maxwell: </strong>Oh, man, tough question. Umm, we have plenty of quality in our young guys, but if I had to say one that I can think of: Alex Dixon, number 19.</em></p>
<p><em><strong>Guinto: </strong>And why’s that?</em></p>
<p><em><strong>Maxwell: </strong>He is an Academy player, young and strong in the midfield. Right now he is fighting for a spot with Brad Davis and Colin Clark, so it’s tough.</em></p>
<p><em><strong>Guinto: </strong>I’ll keep an eye out. Now, Coach Kinnear. Do you ever get to deal directly with him and if so, what’s he like?</em></p>
<p><em><strong>Maxwell: </strong>I do, fortunately, because he is a great guy and an awesome coach. He’s very passionate and everyone in the club is all bought in to his system, so it works well.</em></p>
<p><em><strong>Guinto: </strong>Well, that’s good, though. For example, Sir Alex Ferguson has no qualm reiterating time and time again that he is the “most important person at Manchester United.” And personally, I think that’s the right way to run a club. Now, Do you get to travel with the team when they go on the road? Because I know you haven’t even had a home game yet, so –</em></p>
<p><em><strong>Maxwell: </strong>No, I haven’t traveled. Well, I did once when Mike Porter was out, but like you said we haven’t had any home games yet. (Laughs) So ‘no’ is the actual answer to that.</em></p>
<p><em><strong>Guinto: </strong>(Laughs) So I have here that you guys played the preseason tournament down at Disney Wide World of Sports – beautiful facility – and then only away games in the league. And the next four games are also away, right? Looks like Chicago, Columbus, DC United, and New York Red Bulls…</em></p>
<p><em><strong>Maxwell: </strong>Yea, tough stretch of Eastern Conference games for the guys.</em></p>
<p><em><strong>Guinto: </strong>Predictions?</em></p>
<p><em><strong>Maxwell: </strong>Ah, tough.</em></p>
<p><em><strong>Guinto: </strong>Out of the next 12 points, Houston will take…</em></p>
<p><em><strong>Maxwell: </strong>Six or nine. I know that Colin Clark is facing a three-game suspension and Adam Moffat in the midfield, too, is out, so –</em></p>
<p><em><strong>Guinto: </strong>Then 9 points out of the next 12 is a strong run of results. Especially an away run like that; should set you up nicely if you can take those points to come back to the BBVA and start your home campaign, too –</em></p>
<p><em><strong>Maxwell: </strong>Yea.</em></p>
<p><em><strong>Guinto: </strong>– and maybe we’ll see Alex Dixon then with the two midfield suspensions? </em></p>
<p><em><strong>Maxwell: </strong>Yea, it’s definitely possible.</em></p>
<p><em><strong>Guinto: </strong>Okay, Chris. You’ve been great with the actual questions, but now onto my version of “a hot seat” drill. Don’t think too much here, just go with your gut.</em></p>
<p><em><strong>Maxwell: </strong>Thank you. And okay, let’s do it!</em></p>
<p><em><strong>Guinto: </strong>What is a Dynamo?</em></p>
<p><em><strong>Maxwell: </strong>Oh, umm…(Laughs) I couldn’t tell you. Not the best start.</em></p>
<p><em><strong>Guinto: </strong>I have here it’s a machine, like a generator, or an extremely energetic person. And now I know they chose that for the ties to the industrious history of the city of Houston, but they also play with high energy and intensity from what I’ve seen.</em></p>
<p><em><strong>Maxwell: </strong>Yea, that is very true. But I should really have known that.</em></p>
<p><em><strong>Guinto: </strong>No problem. Next: If Houston were a European team, whom would they be most like?</em></p>
<p><em><strong>Maxwell: </strong>Jeez, killing me, Guinto. Umm…like you said a high energy team.</em></p>
<p><em><strong>Guinto: </strong>Do you play long ball?</em></p>
<p><em><strong>Maxwell: </strong>No. Definitely don’t just play long ball.</em></p>
<p><em><strong>Guinto: </strong>From what I’ve seen, I would’ve said the likes of Tottenham or Napoli. High energy, good interchanging play but can mix it up as well. Fair?</em></p>
<p><em><strong>Maxwell: </strong>I’m not really sure, but I can’t imagine anyone would have a problem with you drawing those comparisons.</em></p>
<p><em><strong>Guinto: </strong>Next: If they played a season in the English Premier League, would the Dynamo avoid relegation?</em></p>
<p><em><strong>Maxwell: </strong>Yea, the guys have a great chemistry, so I think they would avoid relegation. Middle table. Well, lower middle table.</em></p>
<p><em><strong>Guinto: </strong>Wow, bold. I like it. Says a lot about how far the MLS has come and the direction we’re headed in.</em></p>
<p><em><strong>Maxwell: </strong>Absolutely.<br /></em><em><strong><br />Guinto: </strong>More fun for you: practice or match day?</em></p>
<p><em><strong>Maxwell: </strong>Haven’t had a home match, so can’t say. Sorry.</em></p>
<p><em><strong>Guinto: </strong>Fair enough. First players to show up to training and last to leave?</em></p>
<p><em><strong>Maxwell: </strong>Oh, I can’t answer that, man. All of these guys are so dedicated. I mean I could say any name and truly mean it, but recently who pops in my mind are Corey Ashe, Colin Clark and Andre Hainault. But seriously all of them.</em></p>
<p><em><strong>Guinto: </strong>I believe it. Best and worst parts of your day?</em></p>
<p><em><strong>Maxwell: </strong>Best: interacting with the guys before practice, seeing them as normal guys. I really enjoy that. And worst: hands down, doing the laundry. I hate doing my own laundry though, so – (Laughs)</em></p>
<p><em><strong>Guinto: </strong>(Laughs) Oddest quirk about the guys?</em></p>
<p><em><strong>Maxwell: </strong>Well, some players like to wear cold gear. Mind you, we’re in Houston and it’s not cold, so that’s strange. And people are very particular about their socks. But that’s all.<br /><br /></em><em><strong>Guinto: </strong>(Laughs) Interesting. If the Houston Dynamo as an organization collectively went out to get a drink, what kind of drink would it be?</em></p>
<p><em><strong>Maxwell: </strong>Oh, wow. Well, we have some real country types. You know, backwoods kind of guys. So, I would say a beer. Maybe like a St. Arnold’s beer, which is a Houston brewery.</em></p>
<p><em><strong>Guinto: </strong>Okay, good choice. If you had to fight a first team player, whom do you think you could take on?</em></p>
<p><em><strong>Maxwell: </strong>Are you kidding, Guinto? No one! I couldn’t take any of them I don’t think.</em></p>
<p><em><strong>Guinto: </strong>Who would you most want to have your back in a fight?</em></p>
<p><em><strong>Maxwell: </strong>Any of them, really, but maybe one of the hard-nosed center-mids. Adam Moffat or Bobby Boswell?</em></p>
<p><em><strong>Guinto: </strong>Okay. Brian Ching is…</em></p>
<p><em><strong>Maxwell: </strong>A really nice guy. And great player.</em></p>
<p><em><strong>Guinto: </strong>Houston as a city, as an organization, and as a state of mind.</em></p>
<p><em><strong>Maxwell: </strong>As a city, it’s too hot for you. You’d complain. But people are very nice and it’s a lot of fun; and beautiful. As an organization: great organization. Can’t even compare it to the likes of the Rochester Rhinos. Just an entirely different level. And what was the last one? As a state of mind? Friendly and laid-back.</em></p>
<p><em><strong>Guinto: </strong>Excellent, my man. Almost done here. Have you ever seen the video of Albert Morgan, Manchester United’s Equipment Manager, where he tries on Ronaldo’s dirty undershirt, and then runs around Old Trafford with a ball? And you’ve done this, too? (See video here: <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uXMQeD6zObI">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uXMQeD6zObI</a>)</em></p>
<p><em><strong>Maxwell: </strong>(Laughs) Absolutely not! I wouldn’t do that. Come on, man!</em></p>
<p><em><strong>Guinto: </strong>If you did, whose dirty undershirt would you put on?</em></p>
<p><em><strong>Maxwell: </strong>No ones. I would never do that! I do these guys’ laundry every day, so I definitely wouldn’t want to wear it.</em></p>
<p><em><strong>Guinto: </strong>Okay, Chris, last question. This next statement is true or false: ‘I, Chris Maxwell, am an unsung hero for the Houston Dynamo.’</em></p>
<p><em><strong>Maxwell:</strong> No, I’m definitely not going to call myself that. If anyone fits that category it’s my manager, Mike Porter. He works hard for the club.</em></p>
<p><em><strong>Guinto: </strong>Alright, man. You’re finished. Not so bad, right?</em></p>
<p><em><strong>Maxwell: </strong>(Laughs) It was a lot of fun. But you did catch me on a few. Thanks, man.</em></p>
<p><em><strong>Guinto: </strong>Thank you, maybe I’ll be checking back in a year or two and you’ll be running the joint.</em></p>
<p><em><strong>Maxwell: </strong>Sounds good.<br /><br /></em>The Houston Dynamo currently sit in fourth place in the Eastern Conference behind three teams who have all played six games, twice that of the Texas club. If the Dynamo are able to pick up 9 points as Chris predicted from the three games in hand, they will be sitting in second behind undefeated Sporting Kansas City. Most notably, however, is that of the three teams above them, both DC United and New York Red Bulls are on deck for Houston. They open up their new BBVA Compass Stadium on May 12<sup>th</sup> and will hope to emulate the club success of their inaugural 2006 season. They repeated that accomplishment in 2007 with a second MLS Cup in their first two years. If they can manage to bring the sort of energy of European giants Napoli and Tottenham, then we should all be in for a treat as the season progresses. Oh, and as my final contribution here, mark your calendars for May 9<sup>th</sup>; Houston Dynamo visit Red Bull Arena to take on New York in what I’m tipping to be game of the season. </p>
<p><em>By Matthew Guinto; Red Devil, Red Bull, Ready... follow him on twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/#!/mattguintofooty">@mattguintofooty</a></em></p>
<p class="separator"> </p>
Matt Guinto
2012-04-16T15:39:00Z
Imperious Arsenal
Joaquin Reyes
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Imperious-Arsenal/975795268564299420.html
2012-04-13T16:39:00Z
2012-04-13T16:39:00Z
<p>The swagger is back. The Arsenal are dispatching their foes (QPR aside) with the ruthless precision of assassins. Robin van Ninja leads the line with precision, technique, and uncanny movement that make fans and players alike green with envy. There was a moment in the Man City match where van Persie peeled off Kompany to move into space for the headed effort that hit the bar, and upon replay it is evident he knows the exact moment to make that move demonstrating the understanding that he and Song have developed. </p>
<p>It is no surprise the combinations between Song and Robin, Song and Theo and Theo to Robin have borne so much fruit this season. This comes from staying fit, playing with each other for a season uninterrupted, and hundreds of hours on the training pitch. Arsenal fans are seeing these benefits and rejoicing that this is a TEAM now with real leaders and a spine that’s hard as nails. It is no coincidence that our best run of form comes when our spine is intact. Szczesny, Vermaelen, Koscielny, Song, Arteta, van Persie. Dynamite through the middle, just how we want it. Unfair to leave Sagna out of the equation because he is the epitome of the Arsenal spirit and our best, most consistent performer over the last 5 years, but he doesn’t play through the middle. Sagna’s goal against Tottenham was the turning point of our season. He raced to meet that lofted cross knowing he would never be second best and went up and willed that ball in. There was only one place that ball would end up and upon delivering that kidney shot to the JV team of North London he didn’t celebrate, he picked the ball from the net and ran back to the center circle. The last thing the Tiny Tots wanted to do was play the last 5 minutes of the half and Sagna knew it. Arsenal haven’t looked back and have stormed back to gain 15 points on that capitulating club in the past month and a half and St. Totteringham’s day draws near, its better than Christmas. This year of all years it will mean more than ever because there was a strong chance Christmas wouldn’t come and all we would get in our Arsenal stockings would be dirty spuds, and no one wants that.</p>
<p>The energy and togetherness being shown by the squad is rejuvenating and the fans are taking notice. The Emirates is becoming the fortress it should be, our away fans out-sing everyone the face, and the football on the pitch is immaculate. Sometimes immaculate because of how beautiful and flowing it is, and sometimes the beauty is derived from the spirit shown and the mettle to put games away with a late goal. Tell me that 1-0 over City doesn’t feel better than the 7-1 over Blackburn and I’ll kick you in the bollocks. <br /><br />Sir Alex must be cackling at how we, like his other competitors, fucked up our early season. But you know that he sees this team and considers Arsenal the biggest threat to his eventual title next season. Van Persie will stay, we will reinforce the squad quickly because there will be no Champions League play in. Third is there for the taking, and like Wenger says, “It is hard to stop the horse when it can smell the stable.” The stable is in sight, and in the words of the greatest broadcaster I’ve been lucky enough to witness, the late, great, Chick Hearn, "This game's in the refrigerator! The door's closed, the lights are out, the eggs are cooling, the butter's getting hard, and the Jell-O is jiggling...." </p>
<p>Up the Arse!</p>
Joaquin Reyes
2012-04-13T16:39:00Z
Premier League Recaps (April 6th-8th, 9th-11th)
Adam Johnson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Premier-League-Recaps-April-6th-8th,-9th-11th/-136783271573930718.html
2012-04-13T15:15:00Z
2012-04-13T15:15:00Z
<p>Because of the midweek games, I decided to do a two for one on the recaps this week. Here is what happened in the 20 league matches from the 6<sup>th</sup> to the 11<sup>th</sup> of April.</p>
<p><strong>April 6<sup>th</sup>-8th</strong></p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Swansea 0-2 Newcastle</span></p>
<p>Papiss Cisse has easily been the best January signing in the league and his brace gave Newcastle another win, while Swansea dropped their second in a row.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Sunderland 0-0 Tottenham</span></p>
<p>I’ll save everyone some time and just say that this was a pretty boring game that lacked chances and creativity. Neither team got anything going and both left with a point.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Bolton 0-3 Fulham</span></p>
<p>Clint Dempsey scored twice, one a curling free kick, and handed out an assist (for Mahamadou Diarra) to give Fulham the away win. Just when it seemed like Bolton was about to gain momentum and stay up, they respond with a 3-0 home defeat. Owen Coyle’s men have to do better than that.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Chelsea 2-1 Wigan</span></p>
<p>Anyone watching this match had to feel for Wigan. They came to Stamford Bridge to win and looked like they were at least going to get a draw when Mohamed Diame let loose a left footed rocket to tie it up after Branislav Ivanovic wrongly (he was offside) gave Chelsea the lead. Wigan hung on and could’ve scored again but it was Juan Mata who was there to bundle in Fernando Torres’ spectacular volley that caromed off the post. Both teams needed wins and Chelsea was lucky to get one.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Liverpool 1-1 Aston Villa</span></p>
<p>What do you know, yet another home draw for Liverpool. This time it was the struggling Aston Villa who came in and got a point. Chris Herd gave the Villains the lead inside of ten minutes and it took until the 81<sup>st</sup> for Luis Suarez to snatch the equalizer.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Norwich 2-2 Everton</span></p>
<p>Everton finally climbed all the way up the table and actually jumped their rivals, Liverpool, in the standings with their win last weekend. On Saturday they would travel to Norwich and get a draw. Nikica Jelavic gave the Toffees the lead twice, on either side of a Jonathan Howson goal, but Grant Holt rose to the occasion and preserved a draw for his side with a goal in the 75<sup>th</sup> minute.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">West Brom 3-0 Blackburn</span></p>
<p>West Brom hit Blackburn right in the mouth in this game and forced the away side to remain in the relegation zone. Goals from Marc-Antoine Fortune and Liam Ridgewell, coupled with the earlier own goal by Martin Olsson, gave West Brom the three goals to go along with the three points.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Stoke 2-1 Wolves</span></p>
<p>This has to be the death nail for Wolves as they lose yet another match, this time at Stoke. Michael Kightly actually got the opener for Wolves but Robert Huth and Peter Crouch reversed the scoreline to give Stoke the victory.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Manchester United 2-0 QPR</span></p>
<p>The United train kept rolling along on Sunday with another professional performance. Their first goal came on a Wayne Rooney penalty that was given when Ashley Young went down incredibly easy and the QPR captain, Sean Derry, was sent off for the challenge. Oh, plus Young was offside. Nonetheless, QPR hung for a while but you just knew the Red Devils weren’t giving this one away. Paul Scholes added a screamer to the lead and pushed United’s advantage in the table to eight points.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Arsenal 1-0 Manchester City</span></p>
<p>That United lead would stay at eight after Manchester City failed to get anything at the Emirates and looked sluggish in attack all afternoon. It took until the 87<sup>th</sup> minute but Mikel Arteta’s rocket gave the Gunners a well-earned victory to regain third place in the table. City’s title hopes are toast. By the way, Mario Balotelli was sent off again. Typical.</p>
<p><strong>April 9<sup>th</sup>-11<sup>th</sup></strong></p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Everton 4-0 Sunderland</span></p>
<p>After a scoreless first half, Everton broke loose and put four past Sunderland in the second. The four goals came from four different scorers, Magaye Gaye, Steven Pienaar, Leon Osman, and Victor Anichebe. This means that Everton will stay ahead of Liverpool in the table heading into their FA Cup semi-final clash.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Newcastle 2-0 Bolton</span></p>
<p>With this 2-0 win, Newcastle drew level on points with Tottenham for fourth place. To their credit, Bolton played well, and really should’ve scored at some point in the second half. But, Hatem Ben Arfa scored the first of the match after an unreal run through the entire Bolton defense. Papiss Cisse, of course, scored again and sealed the win for Newcaslte.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Tottenham 1-2 Norwich</span></p>
<p>Spurs cannot lose to Norwich at home if they want that last Champions League spot. Norwich came in and played great, with Anthony Pilkington getting the opener. The away side then had a penalty shout at one end, and maybe should’ve got the call, but seconds later Jermaine Defoe put the ball in the back of the net to level. Both clubs created chances in the second half, including a great Gareth Bale run and shot that rattled the crossbar. Elliott Bennett would be the hero for Norwich, though, as he smashed home the winner in the 66<sup>th</sup> minute.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Aston Villa 1-1 Stoke</span></p>
<p>Villa is trying to stay clear of the relegation fight while Stoke is comfortably in the mid table for yet another season. A draw seemed fair on the night and Andreas Weimann, for Aston Villa, and Robert Huth, for Stoke, got the goals for their respective clubs.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Fulham 1-1 Chelsea</span></p>
<p>Chelsea really needed three points here but left with one when Clint Dempsey (again) scored late to salvage a draw for Fulham. Frank Lampard gave Chelsea the lead right before halftime with a penalty, low and to the left as usual, after Salomon Kalou was brought down. Dempsey’s late header gave him 16 league goals on the season and makes him, quite possibly, the most in-form player in the EPL.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Blackburn 2-3 Liverpool</span></p>
<p>This was a win the Liverpool had to have and they looked well on their way after two Maxi Rodriguez goals inside of 15 minutes. Then the match got strange. Doni, who was starting in goal for Pepe Reina, was sent off and third string keeper, Brad Jones came on to face Yakubu on the penalty shot. Jones saved the terrible penalty but Yakubu wasn’t done on this night. The Nigerian’s header cut the lead in half before halftime. In the second half, it was another strange goalkeeping mistake as Jones hit Yakubu with a clearance and in the ensuing fight for the ball, Jones fouled Yakubu and another penalty was given. This time the Yak put it away for 2-2. This would’ve been a great draw for Blackburn but Andy Carroll ended up the hero with a header to win in the 90<sup>th</sup> minute for Liverpool.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Wigan 1-0 Manchester United</span></p>
<p>The title race is possibly back on after Wednesday’s results. Wigan’s 1-0 defeat of United was well deserved. Shaun Maloney got the lone goal, and what a goal it was. He picked up the ball off a short corner and took advantage of the space he was given and curled a shot past David de Gea. It seemed like one of those games where the Red Devils would score late and break Wigan’s hearts but the goal never came. Roberto Martinez got his win of the season just at the right time.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Manchester City 4-0 West Brom</span></p>
<p>City responded well to the disappointing loss at Arsenal on Saturday with a 4-0 thrashing of West Brom on Wednesday. Carlos Tevez got his first start since returning to the club and actually looked pretty good. City put on their best attacking display in awhile with Sergio Aguero leading said attack. He scored the first two while Tevez got his first goal after returning to the club. David Silva looked back on form and added the fourth goal with a great chip over Ben Foster. Back on track and maybe back in the race.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Wolves 0-3 Arsenal</span></p>
<p>Wolves were pretty much down already but after this match there was no question who would finish at the bottom of the table. The home side was down to ten men and down a goal inside of ten minutes when Sebastian Bassong brought down Theo Walcott for a penalty that Robin van Persie put away. Walcott then doubled the lead with a nice finish. Yossi Benayoun got on the score sheet in the second half to make it three for Arsenal on the night and three points in the bag.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">QPR 3-0 Swansea</span></p>
<p>If Swansea isn’t careful, they themselves may get dragged into the relegation battle. QPR is looking like they might stay up after a couple of decent performances lately. Joey Barton’s first half goal, combined with Jamie Mackie and Akos Buzsaky’s goals in the second half, gave the home team a comprehensive, 3-0 win.</p>
<p>It has been a wild few days in the Premier League and the games don’t stop this weekend with the FA Cup semi’s and six Premier League matches. It is just five to go now, though, and the tension is palpable in every match.</p>
Adam Johnson
2012-04-13T15:15:00Z
WFD MINI GOLF CHALLENGE - Rules and Regulations
WFD Staff
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/WFD-MINI-GOLF-CHALLENGE---Rules-and-Regulations/-694484843589126849.html
2012-04-11T05:32:00Z
2012-04-11T05:32:00Z
<div>Martin Rogers - Tournament Director (self-appointed)<br /><br /></div>
<div><br />EUROPE (Rogers, Nicolaou, Juice, TBD) <br />v<br />UNITED STATES (Gonzales, Cranford, Keirnan, Van Patten)</div>
<div><br />April 12, Boomers Country Club.</div>
<div> </div>
<div><strong>GENERAL RULES</strong><br /><br /></div>
<div>1. Each player must complete the hole in full before the next player takes their turn. Poncing about taking one shot at a time is bollocks, it leads to unnecessary delays and everyone’s balls get in each other’s way, which is no good. Get it in the hole, then let the next bloke take his turn.<br /><br /></div>
<div>2. Sometimes balls get wedged in uncomfortable positions, like up against a rock or a wall, or even a crack. These obstacles could be part of the playing area, or the concrete barriers. Either way, in cases such as these, a bit of ball adjustment is needed. Feel free to move the ball a club head away from the obstacle, about four inches. But please be precise, an inch here or there makes all the difference.<br /><br /></div>
<div>3. In order to prevent delays, timewasting and general uselessness, the maximum number of strokes on any hole is six. If you really need to be stroking it that much, something is seriously wrong. So once you’ve whacked it five times, if you still can’t find the hole, grab your ball and pick it up. You’ll score six and know that you’re crap.<br /><br /></div>
<div>4. If you’re retarded enough to hit the ball out of play then it’s kind of pathetic. I mean, come on, this is MINI-golf. However, if you do, then you need to go back to the tee. There are no penalty strokes, even though I’m sure some of you like that kind of thing, so if you hit it out of play on your first go, the next tee shot will count as your second shot. But it’s still pretty embarrassing.<br /><br /></div>
<div>5. Some of the holes on the course can be tricky to get into. For example, on some of them, you need to enter one hole, and your ball drops down to a lower region where you have to then stick it in another hole. In the disastrous scenario that your ball gets stuck through no fault of your own – sometimes the pipes get blocked and need clearing out – then you are allowed to ram your stick into the offending hole and push your ball out at no penalty.<br /><br /></div>
<div>6. Given that this is Southern California, there may be no end of annoying little wankers infiltrating the course. These useless and ungracious little pricks invariably take an eternity to play their round and hold everything up. Therefore, feel free to skip ahead of them before coming back to the hole you were on at a later time. As long as all the holes on each course are finished, the order doesn’t matter.<br /><br /></div>
<div><strong>THE COURSE</strong><br /><br /></div>
<div>7. Boomers in Irvine is where some legendary mini-golf matches have taken place. It was the scene of an infamous meltdown by LA Galaxy press officer Justin Pearson, who followed up a 22 on the front nine of the red course with a horrific 39 on the back. And it is where my Dad beat me by six shots in my most devastating defeat since losing the final of the Queensland Under 17 table tennis championships in 1993. Boomers has three courses, red, blue and yellow, all of similar difficulty. If we get a move on, there is no reason why we can’t play all of ‘em.<br /><br /></div>
<div><strong>THE 18<sup>TH</sup> HOLE<br /><br /></strong></div>
<div>8. Boomers are tight-fisted wankers who will try to scrounge every last cent out of us poor, impoverished socceratis. But worry not, as well as being a cunning linguist I have also come up with a cunning plan to foil their miserly ways. If Boomers had their way, we would putt out on the 18<sup>th</sup> hole of each course, which would then swallow our balls, before rushing up to the counter to put down more money. Fuck that, I say. So, instead of playing the 18<sup>th</sup> on each course, the team or player that is trailing gets to choose to play any of the other 17 holes on that course, which will count as “the 18<sup>th</sup>.”<br /><br /></div>
<div><strong>THE COMMISOLA CUP<br /><br /></strong></div>
<div>9. In inaugural Commisola Cup, named after legendary WFD Italian contributor Rocco Commisola, will take place, weather permitting, on Thursday April 12, at around 7pm. It will feature eight matches of matchplay mini golf; four singles matches, two alternate shot pairs matches and two fourballs matches. And no, fourballs doesn’t refer to Blackburn’s Olsson twins. It will be explained later for those of you who are called Casey. Each match victory is worth one point. Therefore, the first team to reach five points is crowned champion. If it is tied at 4-4, then the trophy is shared and Rocco Commisola becomes the new host of WFD. <br /><br /></div>
<div><strong>MATCHPLAY</strong><br /><br /></div>
<div>10. This method of golf, used for the Ryder Cup, means you go head-to-head on each hole. If you win the hole, it doesn’t matter by how many. If Player A wins the first two holes, he goes “one up”, then “two up” and so on. If a match remains tied it is said to be “all square.” <br /><br /></div>
<div>HONOR<br /><br /></div>
<div>11. The player or team going first is whoever won the previous hole. If the previous hole or holes were tied, it is whoever got it in most recently.</div>
<div>PLAYOFFS<br /><br /></div>
<div>12. Even though we are footy fans, draws are rubbish. So, if any match is all square after 18 holes, it goes straight to a sudden death playoff. Whoever wins a hole first, wins. If the playoff continues past the first hole, you take it in turns to go first, and on who gets to choose the hole.<br /><br /></div>
<div><strong>ROUND 1 - ALTERNATE SHOT PAIRS</strong><br /><br /></div>
<div>13. Players on each team take it in turns to play the same ball. So, the first player will tee off on the odd numbered holes, and the second player will tee off on the evens. Team can choose their pairings.<br /><br /></div>
<div><strong>ROUND 2 - FOURBALLS PAIRS</strong><br /><br /></div>
<div>14. All four players will play their own ball, but only the lowest score in each team will count. For example, if both players on Team A score 3, but Team B scores 2 and 6, Team B wins that hole. The only exception is if there are holes-in-one – any team where both players score an ace on the same hole beats a team where only one player does so. Teams can choose their pairings.<br /><br /></div>
<div><strong>ROUND 3 - SINGLES<br /><br /></strong></div>
<div>15. Each player plays a singles match against an opponent from the other team. The draw is made randomly and will be conducted on Wednesday’s edition of WFD.</div>
<div>Good luck everyone. And come on Europe.<br /><br /><em>Draw results:<br /></em><br />Martin Rogers v. Luke van Patten<br />Oliver Wilson v. Casey Keirnan<br />Joaquin Reyes v. Rafael Gonzales<br />Sophie Nicolaou v. James Cranford<em></em></div>
WFD Staff
2012-04-11T05:32:00Z
Complacency: A Real Danger
A.J. Nelson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Complacency:--A-Real-Danger/-535885388536865560.html
2012-04-09T16:57:00Z
2012-04-09T16:57:00Z
A few weeks ago, Real Madrid was holding a 10 point lead in La Liga. They had just advanced to the quarter finals of the Champions League and received a favorable draw in the Cypriot team, Apoel. They had a relatively healthy team (at least for this point in the season) and had been able to rest a few key players. Sure, they had a few upcoming games against teams in the top half of the table, but the players were feeling good. Perhaps too good and unaware of the dangers they were facing: complacent.
<p>A draw at home against an improving Malaga team was worrisome, but with an 8 point lead, there was nothing to worry about. Although away, their next game would be against a Villarreal side struggling to avoid relegation. Nothing to worry about. But the “yellow submarine” had other ideas. A 1-1 draw against them and Real Madrid’s complacency feeling was <em>hopefully</em> dwindling.</p>
<p>A comfortable win at home against Real Sociedad and a 3-0 away win in the Champions League (courtesy of super-subs Ricardo Kaká and Marcelo) allowed the players to relax again and have fun. And fun they had… Madrid’s fluid motion was definitely in play when they traveled to Osasuna and the “golazos” (because goal is not a strong enough word) would stun everyone. Not only did all 3 of Madrid’s strikers get on the scoreboard, but Karim Benzema’s goal in the 7th minute was gasp-worthy. Even José Mourinho called it “out of this world”. </p>
<p>The second leg of the Champions League against Apoel allowed the fun to continue, and allowed a few key starters, including Xabi Alonso, to get some much needed rest. In that game, it would not take long for Madrid to score and Cristiano Ronaldo’s 49th overall goal on the season would be a stunner off of a free kick. Champions League semi-finals and Bayern Munich await.</p>
<p>For Madrid, after those games, it was time for them to return their focus to La Liga. Real Madrid should not have felt complacent against third place Valencia. Yes, they are 30 points behind them in La Liga, but Valencia has shown strength at times. They even drew against Barcelona earlier in the year. There was a disconnect for Madrid at the start of the game – players were out of position, missed passes and made poor shots on goal. That word complacency was starting to ring in the fans’ heads. Although, however complacent Real Madrid felt at the start of the game, it was an all out war by the end. As Valencia turned up the heat, so did Madrid. Exceptional defending, goal-keeping and a pesky cross bar (which both teams cursed) ended in one of the most exciting scoreless draws I have seen this season. It also brought Real Madrid's lead down to 4 points in La Liga.</p>
<p>If Real Madrid was feeling a sense of complacency a few weeks ago, it is unlikely they do now. They have the Madrid derby on Wednesday, a tough semi-final battle against Bayern Munich and El Clásico in less than two weeks. They are aware of the danger – a few losses in La Liga and losses against Bayern Munich and their dream season could be gone. The danger is now imminent and the time has come to show that they are made of stronger stuff.</p>
A.J. Nelson
2012-04-09T16:57:00Z
Hello Again, Henry
Matt Guinto
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Hello-Again,-Henry/877675844292575336.html
2012-04-09T02:47:00Z
2012-04-09T02:47:00Z
<p>When the Beckham-project commenced, some wondered if the talent washing up on our shores would be washed up in its own right. It wouldn’t be welcomed – nor considered successful – if we just had a bunch of European 30-somethings running around the pitch on holiday, chit-chatting about their glory days gone by.</p>
<p>Beckham, Robbie Keane, Freddy Ljunberg; Juan Pablo Angel, Rafael Marquez, Thierry Henry. These are some of the biggest names in MLS and, in the past decade, were also the ones making headlines in world football.</p>
<p>When Henry joined the New York Red Bulls with 11 games to play in the 2010 season, they were already sitting atop the Eastern Conference and in the conversation for likely MLS Cup Champions. In a city that demands success, Henry was to be the cutting-edge to see them through to the final. If you watched, it didn’t quite happen that way. Known for his breakaway speed, deft touch, and deadliest of finishes, he produced just two goals in the 12 games he played (including the playoff game, when despite being top seed they were bounced in the first round).</p>
<p>Whether it was common belief or personal opinion, I was quick to cast a critical eye on the striker. As probably the best player to never win the Ballon d’Or, such a lack of production was too important to go unnoticed. At times he looked downright lazy, and his shorter, slower strides fit the “washed up” bill quite well. For Henry, 2011 had to be different, better, to maintain his stock in MLS.</p>
<p>For the Frenchman, personally, he did find more success, netting 14 in the regular season and finishing 3<sup>rd </sup>for league top scorer. Still, New York went from winning half of their games in 2010 to winning less than a third in 2011. They managed to squeeze through in a Wild Card Play-In game, only to again be knocked out in the first round.</p>
<p>Now here we are, five games into the 2012 season and he’s already put away seven, including two beautiful braces and his first MLS hat trick (cue the “Welcome Back, Kotter” theme song). Appropriately, following a season where his teams’ success failed to match his personal accolades, he stressed the importance of teamwork and a positive atmosphere. It was a classy, veteran answer – though the question was “which Red Bulls striker would you most like to partner up top?” – but one that seemed both genuine and accurate. Not only do the Red Bulls look capable of challenging for the title, but Henry is playing with the speed and deadly touch of a confident European footballer.</p>
<p>So what has made the difference? Look no further than the turn of the New Year. Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger called for Henry to return on a two-month loan spell to the London side where he made his name and club history. His impact was key and immediate. He came on as a sub to score the winner against Leeds in the FA Cup, capped off a 7-goal rout of Blackburn weeks later, and finished his last game with Arsenal in the only appropriate fashion: a game winner in the dying embers.</p>
<p>Training with a top European club in the top competitions, it seems that Henry has been refocused and reinvigorated. His strides are long and quick and he seems keen to get on the ball. He is making runs and expecting the ball, a sign of a confident player in both himself and in his teammates.</p>
<p>All in all, his loan spell proved to be a huge success for Henry and Arsenal, but who are the real winners? The New York Red Bulls and the MLS (as well as you, and I, and anyone who gets to watch him).</p>
<p>If he can keep up this sort of form, two things are for sure; first is that he will smash his scoring record from 2011 – he’s already half way there – and will be named Golden Boot winner at season’s end. Second, the Red Bulls will go on to win the Eastern Conference and don’t be surprised if you see them – led by Henry – lift the MLS Cup for their first time. <br /><br /><em>By Matthew Guinto; Red Devil, Red Bull, Ready... follow him on twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/#!/mattguintofooty">@mattguintofooty</a><br /></em></p>
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Matt Guinto
2012-04-09T02:47:00Z
Premier League Recap (March 31-April 2)
Adam Johnson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Premier-League-Recap-March-31-April-2/81105463976288011.html
2012-04-08T23:11:00Z
2012-04-08T23:11:00Z
<p>It was craziness in the Premier League this weekend. There was goals a plenty and more dropped points by Manchester City. Chelsea and Tottenham won while Arsenal lost to heat up the race for fourth. Here is how the ten matches played out.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Manchester City 3-3 Sunderland</span></p>
<p>City came in having not lost or drawn a game at home all year. That streak would come to an end on Saturday when Martin O’Neill’s Sunderland drew three all with Roberto Mancini’s squad. Seb Larsson got the opener with a pass into the net that was just out of the reach of Joe Hart. Late in the half Edin Dzeko drew a penalty and Mario Balotelli put it home, but Sunderland came right back. Just before halftime, Nicklas Bendtner regained the lead for Sunderland with a textbook header. The Black Cats continued their great play and the goal scorers, Bendtner and Larsson, hooked up for their third and City looked out of it. The minutes kept passing and nothing was happening for the home side, until Balotelli struck again. He created a goal from nothing, this after he argued with Alex Kolorav over who should take a free kick. Kolorav had the next part to play as his daisy cutter of a shot leveled it for City. That was all they could muster and 3-3 is how it would end.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Aston Villa 2-4 Chelsea</span></p>
<p>It was 2-0 after 50 minutes thanks to Daniel Sturridge and Branislav Ivanovic and it seemed like Chelsea would just cruise to victory. Villa had other plans as James Collins headed home to pull one back. Just a few minutes later they were level as Marc Albrighton played in a brilliant ball that Eric Lichaj poked in. Two minutes later, Chelsea was ahead again when Fernando Torres flicked on for Ivanovic to head in. As the match wound down Torres would get a chance and bury it to make it 4-2 and end his Premier League goal drought.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Everton 2-0 West Brom</span></p>
<p>Everton is on fire right now and with Liverpool’s loss on Sunday, the Merseyside blues jumped their rivals in the table for the first time in a long time. A Gareth McCauley own goal and Victor Anichebe strike got the job done for David Moyes’ side.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Fulham 2-1 Norwich</span></p>
<p>Clint Dempsey provided a goal and an assist, to Damien Duff, to offset an Aaron Wilbraham goal for Norwich.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">QPR 2-1 Arsenal </span></p>
<p>Arsenal came in on a seven match winning streak, so QPR should be no problem, right? Well, Mark Hughes’ boys had other plans. Adel Taarabt got the opening goal with a classy finish while Theo Walcott tied it up with a rebound of his own shot. In the second half QPR stayed the stronger team but Arsenal had chances. It was Jamie Mackie who finally created the winning goal, which Samba Diakite polished off. QPR gained an unbelievably valuable three points with this historic win.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Wolves 2-3 Bolton</span></p>
<p>This relegation battle turned out to be another fairy tale ending for Bolton, whose hobbled man, Fabrice Muamba, seems to be making progress. After an entire half of chances, Wolves <em>finally</em> took the lead when Michael Kightly scored after 53 minutes. Bolton then reeled off three straight goals: a Martin Petrov penalty, Marcos Alonso rebound, and Kevin Davies low shot. Matt Jarvis made it 3-2 for Wolves two minutes from time but it wasn’t enough. Wolves are in serious trouble.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Wigan 2-0 Stoke</span></p>
<p>Stoke have had some very strange losses this season. This was a big one for Wigan though, so lets give them credit. It took awhile but Antolin Alcaraz finally put them ahead in the 55<sup>th</sup> minute. Victor Moses added a stoppage time goal to finish off the Potters.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Newcastle 2-0 Liverpool</span></p>
<p>Liverpool’s free fall continued on Sunday at St. James’ Park as Newcastle put the Reds to the sword. Two Papiss Demba Cisse goals on either side of halftime made sure that the Geordie fans would go home happy as their former striker, Andy Carroll, was subbed early. Pepe Reina would be sent off for a headbutt on James Perch and left back, Jose Enrique, would play goal the rest of the match to cap off an embarrassing day for Liverpool.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Tottenham 3-1 Swansea</span></p>
<p>The Spurs skid had to end this weekend against Swansea at home, and Harry Redknapp and co made sure it did. Rafa van der Vaart scored the first of the game to give Tottenham a halftime lead. In the second half Gylfi Sigurdsson made it level but Emmanuel Adebayor scored on two headers in the 72<sup>nd</sup> and 85<sup>th</sup> minutes to get Spurs back on track over the Swans. The neutral had to enjoy this free flowing game between two attack minded sides.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Blackburn 0-2 Manchester United</span></p>
<p>United did what United does. After 80 minutes of frustration and good defending from Blackburn, Antonio Valencia came up with a terrific goal that honestly looked like a low cross. A gorgeous Ashley Young finish to put a bow on a game that didn’t really deserve one, followed Valencia’s bullet. This team just finds a way to get it done.</p>
<p>United is now five points clear of City while Arsenal and Tottenham are tied for third with Chelsea five points back of them. The bottom three now contains Blackburn, Wigan, and Wolves. This weeks team of the week goes to Newcastle and their validating win over struggling (understatement) Liverpool. Player of the week goes to new Geordie hero, Papiss Demba Cisse, for his brace against the aforementioned Liverpool. Seven to go.</p>
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Adam Johnson
2012-04-08T23:11:00Z
Liver n' Onions: Carroll and Kenny Go To Newcastle
Nash Larson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Liver-n-Onions:-Carroll-and-Kenny-Go-To-Newcastle/974088170997342258.html
2012-04-04T20:10:00Z
2012-04-04T20:10:00Z
<p class="separator"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KhwDljR3MUM/T3yqILxMnHI/AAAAAAAAAus/Bn15FlGYjtw/s1600/Whit+castle.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KhwDljR3MUM/T3yqILxMnHI/AAAAAAAAAus/Bn15FlGYjtw/s1600/Whit+castle.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a></p>
<p>Can hardly tell you the frustration felt as I once again watch Liverpool fall apart like a game of Jenga during a Friday night dinner party. The fact that we where not playing at Anfield sprung hope as Liverpool have won only 5 times out of their 15 chances at Anfield. Also the added incentive to win was apparent as Former Newcastle, and beloved Geordie Andy Carroll made his first return to Tyneside after his 35 million pound move. Kenny Dalglish, Craig Bellamy and Jose Enrique also made their returns to the side they once serviced. </p>
<p> The line-up was promising, starting 4-3-3 with Suarez, Carroll and Bellamy leading the midfield trio of Shelvey, Gerrard and Spearing. Starting so attack heavy is risk one might say, as Newcastle play expansive face paced, attacking football. New boys Demba Ba and Papiss Cisse form a formidable duo uptop, with Yohan Cabaye pulling the strings from the center. What the line-up said to me was that Kenny still does not know what Liverpool's best XI is. This really is nothing new, but when he keeps chopping and changing the line up, how do you expect a cohesive unit to form. He's played a large part in procuring a bunch of underperforming players, perhaps thinking that switching it up is the way to introduce urgency in them, yet so for has shown to do nothing but continually showcase their inability to communicate on the field. </p>
<p class="separator"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vdCeaUlHNuc/T3ypUklEJPI/AAAAAAAAAuk/QPe44z1LYn8/s1600/Live+fan.png"><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vdCeaUlHNuc/T3ypUklEJPI/AAAAAAAAAuk/QPe44z1LYn8/s400/Live+fan.png" border="0" alt="" width="400" height="186" /></a></p>
<p> The differences between the teams are astounding, polar opposites in relation to this years form. Newcastle is operating way above expectation. At the start of the season nobody expected Newcastle to be vying for the forth spot, perhaps sitting 8th- currently where Liverpool are-at best. Astute signings and a team playing as well simply put a team, Newcastle have exceed expectations and reached great heights. This is the opposite in the case of Liverpool, expectations were delusionally high as the team had aspirations of challenging for the title. Kenny had built a classic English based squad focused on Carroll, Downing, Adam and Henderson, which we can see now is not a concoction that produces success. Dispelling start of the season aspirations Liverpool have operated way under expectations. A challenge for the title was never a realistic goal, but at least challenge for the forth spot should have been manageable. Unlike Newcastle Liverpool's signings have gravely disappointed and have left the worshiped Kenny Dalglish looking like a tactless old buffoon, not that I necessarily agree with that last point. </p>
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<p><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wqI53xG4QQ8/T3ypO8vmpXI/AAAAAAAAAuc/8DqJuyS-i4A/s1600/Reina+headbutt.jpg"><img style="float: right;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wqI53xG4QQ8/T3ypO8vmpXI/AAAAAAAAAuc/8DqJuyS-i4A/s320/Reina+headbutt.jpg" border="0" alt="" width="320" height="209" /></a>Carroll looked tidy from the off against Newcastle, but after missing a host of chances the wheels came off for the big lad. Booked for diving Carroll only instigated the increasing volume of boos from "his people" and after that moment he disappeared into oblivion. When he came off in the second half the big center forward walked strait down the tunnel in frustration. It was a game of if's and maybe's for Liverpool, and the strongest part of their game this season the defense, let them down. Cisse was just too much to handle as the 2 goals he netted buried the reds. At the end the game proceedings transpired in comedy flick fashion. Reina was sent off for head nudging James Perch, to be fair, and Gerrard had to shoo Dalglish off the pitch when the decision time came to chose an outfield player to play in goal as they had used all their allocated substitutions.</p>
<p> This loss marks an all time low for the season as Liverpool's point record shapes up as 42 points from 31 games. Which is just plain dreadful.</p>
<p class="separator" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1d8UrqqTab8/T3yqMEH7UjI/AAAAAAAAAu0/vHA_yvUH-Z4/s1600/ITEM+RECALL.jpg"><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1d8UrqqTab8/T3yqMEH7UjI/AAAAAAAAAu0/vHA_yvUH-Z4/s320/ITEM+RECALL.jpg" border="0" alt="" width="230" height="320" /></a></p>
<p>Check out more at spotkickjournalism.blogspot.com </p>
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Nash Larson
2012-04-04T20:10:00Z
Premier League Recap (March 31-April 2)
Adam Johnson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Premier-League-Recap-March-31-April-2/68353631236081299.html
2012-04-04T15:38:00Z
2012-04-04T15:38:00Z
<p>It was craziness in the Premier League this weekend. There was goals a plenty and more dropped points by Manchester City. Chelsea and Tottenham won while Arsenal lost to heat up the race for fourth. Here is how the ten matches played out.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Manchester City 3-3 Sunderland</span></p>
<p>City came in having not lost or drawn a game at home all year. That streak would come to an end on Saturday when Martin O’Neill’s Sunderland drew three all with Roberto Mancini’s squad. Seb Larsson got the opener with a pass into the net that was just out of the reach of Joe Hart. Late in the half Edin Dzeko drew a penalty and Mario Balotelli put it home, but Sunderland came right back. Just before halftime, Nicklas Bendtner regained the lead for Sunderland with a textbook header. The Black Cats continued their great play and the goal scorers, Bendtner and Larsson, hooked up for their third and City looked out of it. The minutes kept passing and nothing was happening for the home side, until Balotelli struck again. He created a goal from nothing, this after he argued with Alex Kolorav over who should take a free kick. Kolorav had the next part to play as his daisy cutter of a shot leveled it for City. That was all they could muster and 3-3 is how it would end.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Aston Villa 2-4 Chelsea</span></p>
<p>It was 2-0 after 50 minutes thanks to Daniel Sturridge and Branislav Ivanovic and it seemed like Chelsea would just cruise to victory. Villa had other plans as James Collins headed home to pull one back. Just a few minutes later they were level as Marc Albrighton played in a brilliant ball that Eric Lichaj poked in. Two minutes later, Chelsea was ahead again when Fernando Torres flicked on for Ivanovic to head in. As the match wound down Torres would get a chance and bury it to make it 4-2 and end his Premier League goal drought.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Everton 2-0 West Brom</span></p>
<p>Everton is on fire right now and with Liverpool’s loss on Sunday, the Merseyside blues jumped their rivals in the table for the first time in a long time. A Gareth McCauley own goal and Victor Anichebe strike got the job done for David Moyes’ side.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Fulham 2-1 Norwich</span></p>
<p>Clint Dempsey provided a goal and an assist, to Damien Duff, to offset an Aaron Wilbraham goal for Norwich.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">QPR 2-1 Arsenal </span></p>
<p>Arsenal came in on a seven match winning streak, so QPR should be no problem, right? Well, Mark Hughes’ boys had other plans. Adel Taarabt got the opening goal with a classy finish while Theo Walcott tied it up with a rebound of his own shot. In the second half QPR stayed the stronger team but Arsenal had chances. It was Jamie Mackie who finally created the winning goal, which Samba Diakite polished off. QPR gained an unbelievably valuable three points with this historic win.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Wolves 2-3 Bolton</span></p>
<p>This relegation battle turned out to be another fairy tale ending for Bolton, whose hobbled man, Fabrice Muamba, seems to be making progress. After an entire half of chances, Wolves <em>finally</em> took the lead when Michael Kightly scored after 53 minutes. Bolton then reeled off three straight goals: a Martin Petrov penalty, Marcos Alonso rebound, and Kevin Davies low shot. Matt Jarvis made it 3-2 for Wolves two minutes from time but it wasn’t enough. Wolves are in serious trouble.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Wigan 2-0 Stoke</span></p>
<p>Stoke have had some very strange losses this season. This was a big one for Wigan though, so lets give them credit. It took awhile but Antolin Alcaraz finally put them ahead in the 55<sup>th</sup> minute. Victor Moses added a stoppage time goal to finish off the Potters.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Newcastle 2-0 Liverpool</span></p>
<p>Liverpool’s free fall continued on Sunday at St. James’ Park as Newcastle put the Reds to the sword. Two Papiss Demba Cisse goals on either side of halftime made sure that the Geordie fans would go home happy as their former striker, Andy Carroll, was subbed early. Pepe Reina would be sent off for a headbutt on James Perch and left back, Jose Enrique, would play goal the rest of the match to cap off an embarrassing day for Liverpool.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Tottenham 3-1 Swansea</span></p>
<p>The Spurs skid had to end this weekend against Swansea at home, and Harry Redknapp and co made sure it did. Rafa van der Vaart scored the first of the game to give Tottenham a halftime lead. In the second half Gylfi Sigurdsson made it level but Emmanuel Adebayor scored on two headers in the 72<sup>nd</sup> and 85<sup>th</sup> minutes to get Spurs back on track over the Swans. The neutral had to enjoy this free flowing game between two attack minded sides.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Blackburn 0-2 Manchester United</span></p>
<p>United did what United does. After 80 minutes of frustration and good defending from Blackburn, Antonio Valencia came up with a terrific goal that honestly looked like a low cross. A gorgeous Ashley Young finish to put a bow on a game that didn’t really deserve one, followed Valencia’s bullet. This team just finds a way to get it done.</p>
<p>United is now five points clear of City while Arsenal and Tottenham are tied for third with Chelsea five points back of them. The bottom three now contains Blackburn, Wigan, and Wolves. This weeks team of the week goes to Newcastle and their validating win over struggling (understatement) Liverpool. Player of the week goes to new Geordie hero, Papiss Demba Cisse, for his brace against the aforementioned Liverpool. Seven to go.</p>
<p> </p>
Adam Johnson
2012-04-04T15:38:00Z
Portland Timbers 2-3 Real Salt Lake
Mark Henty
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Portland-Timbers-2-3-Real-Salt-Lake/-61427486638830345.html
2012-04-01T04:12:00Z
2012-04-01T04:12:00Z
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<p><strong>Portland</strong><strong> Timbers vs. Real Salt Lake</strong></p>
<p><strong>March 31, 2012</strong></p>
<p><strong>MLS Match</strong></p>
<p><strong>Weather: 51F Heavy Showers</strong></p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Match Report:</strong></p>
<p> The Timbers came into this game - after only obtaining 1 point from their opening two away games this season - knowing that they will have to maintain good home form if they are going to make a claim for a playoff spot in a western conference packed with talent. They must improve away but it's equally crucial to ensure that home form is solid as Portland looks to build on a decent 1<sup>st</sup> season in the MLS. March has been the wettest on record here in Portland and after a deluge of rain over the past few days; it was almost refreshing to only have intermittent showers in the downtown area for this important game against the talented Real Salt Lake.</p>
<p> <strong>1<sup>st</sup> Half:</strong></p>
<p> The early exchanges were pretty even with the Timbers looking comfortable on the ball but Real Salt Lake were showing that they are pretty dangerous going forward themselves. The biggest moment of the first 20 minutes came on 17 minutes when Darlington Nagbe should have been allowed the advantage to play on after a foul on Perlaza by the half-way line. Nagbe would have been clean through on goal had the advantage been played but referee Mark Geiger decided to blow for the foul instead. This was very poor refereeing indeed and coach John Spencer was incensed at the decision down on the touchline.</p>
<p> With the Timbers Army in full voice on this blustery March evening, the Timbers continued to push for the opening goal with Nagbe often looking dangerous and some decent balls whipped in, especially from Rodney Wallace down the left hand side. Real Salt Lake had a spate of corners in the first half themselves that they often looked dangerous from but Jewsbury and Chara began to dominate the midfield in the middle and latter stages of the first half as the Timbers sought the first goal in the teaming rain.</p>
<p> Jorge Perlaza missed a terrific opportunity on 31 minutes as he was put clean through by Chara. He rounded the keeper but lost his balance and couldn't finish from a fairly acute angle. Real Salt Lake were awarded a penalty in the 38<sup>th</sup> minute as Rodney Wallace made a clumsy attempt to stop Ned Grabavoy from being through one on one with Troy Perkins and he ended up handling the ball as it bounced up off the wet turf. Alvaro Saborio calmly slotted the penalty away sending Troy Perkins the wrong way. <strong>0-1 RSL Goal.</strong></p>
<p> The Timbers almost immediately struck back when Kris Boyd laid off a chance to Jorge Perlaza who couldn't find the target with his volley that was to be fair, tricky to control. As the whistle blew for half-time it was clear that John Spencer had to remind the Timbers of their home opener against Philadelphia Union where they came from a goal down to win 3-1. Real Salt Lake are a more talented side though, and it was going to be a tougher proposition to pull that kind of result out of the bag.</p>
<p><strong>Half-Time: Portland Timbers 0-1 Real Salt Lake</strong></p>
<p><strong><br /></strong></p>
<p><strong>2<sup>nd</sup> Half:</strong></p>
<p> Within 4 minutes of the restart the Timbers were level when Darlington Nagbe skipped around Kyle Beckerman and hammered the ball low into the bottom left hand corner of the goal for a sensational goal. <strong>1-1 Timbers Goal.</strong> It was obvious that John Spencer demanded more tempo from his team but this attacking mentality left Portland open to the RSL breakaways and with better composure, Real Salt Lake could've found themselves back ahead shortly after the Timbers equalizer with Saborio even hitting the post on 52 mins.</p>
<p> The game was now open and pretty end to end and the Timbers began to calm down and get some possession going and it was Nagbe again who stung the palms of Nick Rimando when he struck from the edge of the penalty area from a cutback after some wonderful skill from Eric Alexander on the left hand side. On 63 minutes John Spencer decided to bring on Frank Songo'o for his home debut in place of the rather disappointing Jorge Perlaza as the Timbers looked to complete the comeback and oh my goodness Darlington Nagbe within 60 seconds produced another incredible finish this time with a beauty of a volley that dipped over a stranded Rimando. <strong>2-1 Timbers Goal</strong></p>
<p> Real Salt Lake were still looking dangerous on the break and Ned Grabavoy went close on 75 minutes as he fired just wide of Troy Perkins left hand post from just outside the area when put through. The Timbers though were by now dominating possession and slowing the game down with a more measured passing approach, showing a little more technical ability while keeping the ball. Into the last ten minutes though and the Timbers started to give away possession and silly free kicks and in the 89<sup>th</sup> minute Jonny Steele placed the ball around Troy Perkins to equalize after the Timbers gave the ball away unnecessarily again in midfield. <strong>2-2 RSL Goal.</strong></p>
<p><strong> </strong>Just when they thought it was all over and there would be a share of the points, RSL completed an astonishing comeback with a Kyle Beckerman sucker punch in the final minute of injury time as he volleyed home from just outside the box to steal the points. <strong>2-3 RSL Goal.</strong> It was truly a smash and grab and quite honestly, the Timbers deserved something out of this game but only had themselves to blame for not seeing the match out.</p>
<p><strong>Full Time: Portland Timbers 2-3 Real Salt Lake</strong></p>
<p><strong>Goals: RSL Saborio 39 mins (Pen), POR Nagbe 49 mins, POR Nagbe 65 mins, RSL 89 mins, RSL Beckerman 93 mins.</strong></p>
<p><strong> S</strong><strong>ummary:</strong></p>
<p> After a frustrating first half which saw opportunities missed, dodgy refereeing decisions and some excellent play on the break by Real Salt Lake, the Timbers upped the tempo in the second half and did what they do best, attack in swash-buckling style with all blood, guts, and thunder. The two strikes from Darlington Nagbe world truly World Class and it was his magic that almost won the match for the Timbers in a game where Kris Boyd and Jorge Perlaza were clearly not at their best. The mistake from Rodney Wallace that led to the Real Salt Lake opener was down to a lack of communication where he was the only defender that decided not to play for offside and it was one of many mistakes at home that proved to be costly.</p>
<p> There is no doubt that the Timbers can steamroll teams when they really go at them but they need to be a little better at seeing out games when they go ahead as they started to give away free kicks in the last 10 minutes when they needed to slow the game down and keep possession. Real Salt Lake were allowed back into the game through sloppy play and the Timbers gave the ball away too often in the closing stages. Real did not deserve to win this game but they often looked dangerous on the break and in the end they pulled out the shock victory in the final minutes when Portland really should have seen this one out for the home victory. Timbers grade <strong>D+: Needs to improve.</strong> .</p>
<p><strong>League Record:</strong></p>
<p><strong>P W D L F A Pts</strong></p>
<p>4 1 1 2 6 6 4</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Mark Henty,</p>
<p>World Football Daily Portland Timbers Correspondent.</p>
Mark Henty
2012-04-01T04:12:00Z
Rangers Postpone Celtic's Title Celebrations
Sandy Thin
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Rangers-Postpone-Celtics-Title-Celebrations/-379749656692121242.html
2012-03-27T18:56:00Z
2012-03-27T18:56:00Z
<p>Sunday’s Old Firm derby between Celtic and Rangers proved somewhat an anomaly: a result which pleased both sets of fans, and even the neutral. Rangers overcame the most turbulent month in their club’s history to come out 3-2 victors over their arch-rivals in front of the home support. It was the first good news to come to the club since they went into administration almost five weeks ago, and the fans loved every minute of it. Even the Celtic fans, however, were not too distressed by the outcome. While they would have loved the opportunity to rub winning the league on Ibrox soil in their rivals’ faces, they knew that, win or lose, the title is theirs and now they can enjoy the victory all the more in front of a full home crowd, probably this weekend.</p>
<p>Even the neutral was left with a warm feeling in their heart following the match on Sunday, and that is not a feat often achieved by matchups between the two Glasgow sides. Over the last few years, the derby has provoked far more bad press than it has good. This year, however, crime was far down from that of previous Old Firm days, and presumably far lower than if Celtic <em>had</em> won the title at Rangers’ stomping ground. Both fans sang in great support for their own team, rather than the usual sectarian abuse we have come to expect from such games. It also proved to be a wonderful game of football. Despite the four red cards the game produced (including Celtic manager, Neil Lennon), it was a far less heated affair than these games often prove to be, possibly because there was less at stake.</p>
<p>Rangers kicked off the scoring early with a superb individual goal following a mazing run through Celtic’s defence from 23 year-old Nigerian forward, Sone Aluko. Signed in January he has proved a real hit with the Ibrox crowd, scoring six goals already, and this will have done nothing to hamper his reputation. The Gers doubled their lead shortly after the break with a close range from Andy Little, who scored with his first touch after coming on off the bench. Lee Wallace bagged their third to seal the win. Celtic proved their fight, however, with two goals right at the death to maintain their dignity and add some drama to the game.</p>
<p>In terms of individual performances, credit must go to 19 year-old Rangers midfielder Rhys McCabe, whose passing and technical skill outclassed that of any other player on the pitch, or indeed the league this weekend. In players such as McCabe, Aluko and Wallace, Rangers fans can be optimistic about their future, should they survive their current financial situation. While the players can be applauded for their attitudes and performances during the match, the referee Calum Murray did not cover himself in glory during the match. All three of the dismissals were questionable, in particular Cha Du-Ri’s, which caused the dismissal of Lennon during the half-time break for questioning the referee’s decision. In the grand scheme of things, however, his decisions did not affect the outcome of the match and the outcome of the match did not ultimately affect the outcome of the league and so his mistakes are forgivable.</p>
<p>All in all, Sunday’s Old Firm proved to be the good advert the Scottish game so desperately needed to see following the turmoil 2012 has brought to Scottish football so far. The bookies had Rangers as 3/1 winners before the match, despite having home advantage and despite being current holders. Everyone loves an underdog story and so no matter your footballing allegiances, everyone was able to smile for once at the outcome of the most fiercely contested derby in world football.</p>
Sandy Thin
2012-03-27T18:56:00Z
Premier League Recap (March 24-26)
Adam Johnson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Premier-League-Recap-March-24-26/177604147065130862.html
2012-03-27T03:52:00Z
2012-03-27T03:52:00Z
<p>It appears as though the races are down to two at the top, four for fourth, and five for relegation as just about every team has now played 30 matches. These next few weeks determine jobs, places in competitions and lots and lots of money.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Chelsea 0-0 Tottenham</span></p>
<p>Steve McManaman was correct during the broadcast of this game when he said, “This is a terrible game”. The boring 0-0 draw probably had a few factors to it, like it being a massive match in the race for fourth, or the fact that both teams had come off draining midweek fixtures, but give us a little more than what we saw Saturday, please. Juan Mata and Gareth Bale both hit the woodwork in the second half. There were also a couple close calls, like when Petr Cech and Ashley Cole kept Rafa van der Vaart off the line twice and a pair of penalty claims from Chelsea, but 0-0 was probably the correct result.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Arsenal 3-0 Aston Villa</span></p>
<p>This is seven in a row for Arsenal and they now, easily, look like the favorites to finish third. Kieran Gibbs, rather surprisingly, got the opener as the Gunners looked like the winners all the way through. Theo Walcott added a good finish to a great Alex Song pass and Mikel Arteta a gorgeous free kick to make it three goals and three points.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Bolton 2-1 Blackburn</span></p>
<p>Bolton’s first match after the collapse of Fabrice Muamba went the way anyone but Blackburn fans wanted it to go. Rovers had an early penalty claim turned down and Bolton took advantage of their luck and took the lead with a David Wheater header. Six minutes later it was that man Wheater again with his head to double the lead. Stephen Nzonzi got one back after halftime but this was Bolton’s afternoon.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Liverpool 1-2 Wigan</span></p>
<p>How would Liverpool respond to the dramatic collapse when they gave up a two-goal lead to lose 3-2 to QPR? Most thought that the Reds would come out strong and make a statement: wrong. A loss at home to Wigan is not what they needed. Martin Skyrtel kicked Victor Moses, which led to a penalty that Shaun Maloney converted to give the away side the advantage. Luis Suarez equalized in the second half when Steven Gerrard played in the Uruguayan. Suarez thought he put Liverpool ahead just minutes later but his goal was disallowed for a push on the goal line. The Anfield faithful were then furious as Gary Caldwell put Wigan back in front after 63 minutes. It stayed that way and Wigan gained three vital points.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Norwich 2-1 Wolves</span></p>
<p>It is starting to look really ominous for Wolves. They started brightly and even took a Matt Jarvis-inspired lead. Then Grant Holt happened. First, he ran on to a ball over the top of the defense and chipped it over the keeper’s head and finished the move off with his head. He then converted a penalty after a Wolves handball. And, to top things off he was shown a second yellow and sent off. Norwich held on without him to end their four match winless streak.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Sunderland 3-1 QPR</span></p>
<p>Niklas Bendtner gave Sunderland the lead while Djibril Cisse made things easier for the Black Cats when the QPR striker was sent off for a two-footed challenge. James McClean doubled then Stephane Sessegnon tripled the Sunderland lead. Even with a late Taye Taiwo goal, QPR didn’t show up, and you have to think that the exhausting 3-2 comeback win over Liverpool on Wednesday had some effect.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Swansea 0-2 Everton</span></p>
<p>This result was a little surprising as Swansea came in on a good run of form and at home, too. A Leighton Baines free kick and Nikica Jelavic tap in on either side of halftime undid Brendan Rodgers side and earned Everton and impressive away victory.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Stoke 1-1 Manchester City</span></p>
<p>It took until the 59<sup>th</sup> minute for someone to score in this game but what a goal it was. Peter Crouch’s deep volley may be the goal of the season and gave Stoke the lead in this important match. Yaya Toure leveled with a long-range shot of his own but the score line wouldn’t change after that. Two more dropped points for City and the title is getting harder and harder to win.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">West Brom 1-3 Newcastle</span></p>
<p>This one was over early as Newcastle went 3-0 up after just 34 minutes thanks to two goals from Papiss Demba Cisse and one from Hatem Ben Arfa. West Brom did pull one back when Shane Long took advantage of a defensive error but it meant nothing in the end as Newcastle took home all three points.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Manchester United 1-0 Fulham</span></p>
<p>A lone Wayne Rooney, follow up goal was all United needed to add yet another just-get-the-job-done type win to their record. With this win the Red Devils move three points clear of City at the top of the table. Fulham came to play but didn’t have enough in this very average match.</p>
<p>Player of the week is going to Peter Crouch, because his goal was simply awesome. Team of the week has to go to Bolton for getting the win for their teammate, Fabrice Muamba. There wasn’t a ton of late drama this weekend but plenty of movement and important results were earned. Eight games to go folks.</p>
Adam Johnson
2012-03-27T03:52:00Z
What chance England success in Euro 2012?
Thomas Rooney
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/What-chance-England-success-in-Euro-2012/738821721656881211.html
2012-03-20T14:35:00Z
2012-03-20T14:35:00Z
<p class="western"><span>It may seem a harsh statement, but as the summer and <a href="http://www.euroodds.co.uk/">euro odds 2012</a> approaches, it seems the English national team are quite possibly the least stable of the sides heading to Poland and Ukraine.</span></p>
<p class="western"><span>Whilst their World Cup campaign of 2010 was nothing short of embarrassing, it was nowhere near the level of humiliation that France caused themselves. It was no coincidence that their dismal showing came as a result of managerial tensions.</span></p>
<p class="western"><span>The likely outcome here, is that Stuart Pearce will be assigned the task of leading England into the tournament, with a permanent manager to be announced following its completion.</span></p>
<p class="western"><span>At this point, no self respecting manager at the top of his game would want to take on the pressure of guiding an England side that he has had no time to work with. His preparations would be limited at best.</span></p>
<p class="western"><span>If Stuart Pearce is given the job, even on a temporary basis, would it not be wise to announce it now? What exactly are the FA doing that is taking this announcement so long? Do they see it as beneficial to wait so long before announcing anything?</span></p>
<p class="western"><span>Quite frankly, it is farcical. The blunt reality is that it will be another year of disappointment and despair for England. Even the best manager in the world would have a job of guiding them to success.</span></p>
<p class="western"><span>All the other times are far better prepared, with the likes of Spain, Germany and Holland all likely to perform considerably better than England.</span></p>
<p class="western"><span>Not only do they all seem to have better players, but they have world class managers. They all play attractive, attacking football, and all did better than England at the World Cup in South Africa.</span></p>
<p class="western"><span>Then again, all England fans will be hoping that from adversity, their side can defy expectations, upset the odds and have a tournament to remember.</span></p>
Thomas Rooney
2012-03-20T14:35:00Z
2012 UEFA Champions League Quarterfinal Draw
WFD Staff
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/2012-UEFA-Champions-League-Quarterfinal-Draw/767944172854717500.html
2012-03-16T12:53:00Z
2012-03-16T12:53:00Z
<strong><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Quarter-final 1<br /><br /></strong>APOEL Nicosia v. Real Madrid<strong><br /><br />Quarter-final 2<br /><br /></strong>Olympigue de Marseille v. Bayern Munchen<br /><br /><strong>Quarter-final 3<br /><br /></strong>Benfica v. Chelsea FC<br /><br /><strong>Quarter-final 4<br /><br /></strong>AC Milan v. FC Barcelona<br /><br /><strong>Semi-final Draw<br /><br /></strong>Olympique de Marseille/Bayern Munchen v. APOEL Nicosia/Real Madrid<br /><br />Benfica/Chelsea FC v. AC Milan/FC Barcelona<br /><br /><strong>Final Draw<br /><br /></strong>Semi-final 1 v. Semi-final 2<strong><br /></strong><strong></strong><strong></strong><strong></strong><strong></strong>
WFD Staff
2012-03-16T12:53:00Z
2012 UEFA Europa League Quarterfinal Draw
WFD Staff
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/2012-UEFA-Europa-League-Quarterfinal-Draw/624982162373717890.html
2012-03-16T12:50:00Z
2012-03-16T12:50:00Z
<strong><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Quarter-final 1<br /><br /></strong>AZ Alkmaar v. Valencia CF<br /><strong></strong><strong><br />Quarter-final 2<br /><br /></strong>Shalke 04 v. Athletic Club<br /><br /><strong>Quarter-final 3<br /><br /></strong>Sporting Lisbon v. Metalist Kharkiv<br /><br /><strong>Quarter-final 4<br /><br /></strong>Athletico Madrid v. Hannover 96<br /><br /><strong>Semi-final Draw<br /><br /></strong>Athletico Madrid/Hannover 96 v. AZ Alkmaar/Valencia CF<br /><br />Sporting Lisbon/Metalist Kharkiv v. Schalke 04/Athletic Club<br /><br /><strong>Final Draw<br /><br /></strong>Semi-final 1 v. Semi-final 2<strong><br /></strong><strong></strong><strong></strong><strong></strong><strong></strong>
WFD Staff
2012-03-16T12:50:00Z
Pay the Man, Arsene!
Joaquin Reyes
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Pay-the-Man,-Arsene!/751174024547640641.html
2012-03-16T10:02:00Z
2012-03-16T10:02:00Z
Today the enigma we know as Theo Walcott turns 23.<br />The man divides opinion amongst Arsenal fans from Philly to Frankfurt. The only thing that can be agreed upon is that this fleet-footed footballer strikes fear into foes with his forays forward.<br />Many love to criticize his decision-making and I for one am guilty of it on more than one occasion. His errant passes, and crosses to no one have driven me up a wall, leaving me wishing he would read the game better and see the pass we can all see from our cozy recliners. <br />This frustration, albeit warranted, is part of the problem that stems from expectations. Theo turns 23 today, TWENTY-THREE! Since joining in 2006 Theo has made 212 appearances for Arsenal, scoring 44 goals and 40 assists. Pretty good for a one trick pony, eh?<br />Walcott hasn't done himself any favors by taking the number 14 shirt and making the comparisons himself with Thierry. Just like with Diaby and Viera people want to compare because of stature and position when truly the two players are nowhere near the same. People compare him to the Ox and say he's rubbish because of the potential they see in Alex, but they are apples and oranges. The Ox will be the most influential English player since the emergence of Rooney, he's that good, but of a different breed than Walcott. <br />Theo will never be an Henry, nor what the Ox has the potential to be, and that's fine. He could be like the Michael Owen he grew up watching, it's up to him. Thierry came to Arsenal at 23 and it can be argued that Theo has done more by the same age. The key is to play to his strengths. He needs to use his pace, play off the shoulder of the last defender, bomb down the line and get those crosses in. Maximize the natural talents and ability that he has to become as effective a footballer as he can be.<br />We have seen his penchant for scoring in big games. This season Theo has scored in the following matches: Udinese (A), Udinese (H), United (A), Chelsea (A), and Spurs (H). Four of those matches were vitally important in our season. We would not even have qualified for the Champions’ League group stages without Theo scoring.<br />What would an English player with 200 matches, 40+ goals at the age of 23 cost Arsenal in today’s market? King Kenny would pay £40m for that kind of English talent based on his recent buys, that is if he were willing to replace the current token at LFC, Glen Johnson. Doubt me? Have a look at their <a title="squad" href="http://www.liverpoolfc.tv/team/first-team" target="_blank">squad</a>. <br />But honestly, Arsenal couldn't(wouldn't) afford to buy Theo as he would fetch at least £20m and last time i checked, we don't spend that kind of money, which makes keeping him all the more of a priority.<br />Perhaps YOU don’t think he is worth what he will ask for. Stay or go, £100k a week or £60k, your ticket price will not be going down.<br />Theo Walcott has a little over one year left on his contract. He wears the Arsenal shirt with class, determination, and improving skill. Support him before he also moves on and before he reaches his full potential and yet another club reaps the benefits.<br />Sign him up, Arsene.
Joaquin Reyes
2012-03-16T10:02:00Z
Happy Anniversary!
A.J. Nelson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Happy-Anniversary!/-902392870689064578.html
2012-03-15T01:56:00Z
2012-03-15T01:56:00Z
<p>José Mourinho coached his 100<sup>th</sup> game for the club. Cristiano Ronaldo scored two more goals to remain at the top of the Pichichi race. They had a celebrity guest at the Santiago Bernabeu in Zac Efron, dropping condoms no less! (OK, he learned his lesson and didn’t drop condoms this time, but he was at the Bernabeu). They celebrated by winning their 10<sup>th</sup> consecutive away match in a season against Real Betis, a record no team in La Liga has ever achieved before. (And before I am questioned, yes, Barcelona did it, but they did it over two seasons.) Real Madrid celebrated it by Ronaldo scoring against the only top flight team he had never scored against in La Liga. Finally and, to many, most importantly, they celebrated by advancing in the Champions League. Winning!</p>
<p>110 years of club history is significant, perhaps even more so in Spain. During those 110 years, Spain was involved in a civil war that killed over 350,000 Spaniards. Two World Wars occurred, assassinations were made, dictators rose and fell, and a king helped the way to democracy. Spain, like so many countries today, is facing staggering unemployment and harsh economic strife. But that’s enough of a history lesson…the one thing that nearly all Spaniards can agree on is football. They certainly don’t agree on which team - they are passionate about their teams of choice - but La Liga as a whole is exhibiting a defined strength.</p>
<p>The quarterfinals of the Champions League include one French team, one German team, one Portuguese team, one English team, one Cypriot team (congratulations Apoel F.C.) and one Italian team. But two Spanish teams remain dominant. They are the favorites and the heavyweights – Real Madrid and Barcelona. The Europa League is also littered with Spanish teams, including a surprising Athletic Bilbao who defeated Premier League leading Manchester United at Old Trafford. [And this writer is seriously hoping Athletic Bilbao takes United down when they face them in Spain.]</p>
<p>The anniversary celebrations for Real Madrid will likely continue throughout the year. They are on the brink of some significant achievements, but regardless of their on the pitch achievements, at 110 years and going strong – life is good for Madrid and they are most certainly winning!</p>
<p><em>A.J. Nelson can be found on Twitter @FootieObsessed</em></p>
A.J. Nelson
2012-03-15T01:56:00Z
Not Your Same Old Arsenal
Joaquin Reyes
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Not-Your-Same-Old-Arsenal/999809875698051915.html
2012-03-14T05:20:00Z
2012-03-14T05:20:00Z
Newcastle were put to the sword by Vermaelen's late dagger Monday, in what has become a familiar come from behind victory. This Premier League record setting 4th comeback in a row is a testament to the new mentality within the squad. In years past, the Arsenal have wilted under the pressure come crunch time but that was a team lacking identity.<br /><br />Now led by the mercurial Robin van Persie, and anchored by Szczesny and Vermaelen, Arsenal have a spine that no one can question. Players are committed to the cause and ready to fight til the end, and more importantly, refusing to fail. <br /> <br />It should come as no surprise that Vermaelen was the player bombing forward to get the goal and you could see in the celebration what the goal meant to the team. When asked about what the four comeback wins meant about these Arsenal players' tenacity and resilience, Vermaelen responded "I think we showed the mentality of fighters." Fans are seeing the true potential of this team, not only in footballing ability but in their spirit to persevere. <br />By matching their season-best five victories in the row, the gap to third has been narrowed to a solitary point and Spurs are shaking in their boots. The perennial patsies are pissing themselves at the thought of another late season collapse that could quickly turn into a fifth place finish if Chelsea find their form. <br /> <br />Arsenal are in the driver's seat, still a point off third place but the form team of the league, brimming with confidence and self belief. Third place will be a major coup considering how much of the season has gone, but the squad and Arsene deserve credit for staying strong when there were so many times the season could have gone pear-shaped.<br /><br />There are 30 points left to play for, and a lot can happen over the rest of the season. The job has not been completed, and difficult matches await. But there is one thing I do know. This Arsenal will not quit. This Arsenal will not crumble. If these men finish outside of the top four it won't be due to a lack of effort. I believe in the spirit of this team and more importantly, they believe in themselves.<br /><br />Up the Arsenal!<br /><br />Follow me at @MorningPint and check out http://www.themorningpint.com/ for more shenanigans.<br />
Joaquin Reyes
2012-03-14T05:20:00Z
Portland Timbers 3 - 1 Philadelphia Union
Mark Henty
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Portland-Timbers-3---1-Philadelphia-Union/-929157537519125617.html
2012-03-13T03:51:00Z
2012-03-13T03:51:00Z
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<p><strong>Portland</strong><strong> Timbers vs. Philadelphia Union</strong></p>
<p><strong>M</strong><strong>arch 12, 2012</strong></p>
<p><strong>MLS Opening Game</strong></p>
<p><strong>Weather: Steady Rain 47F</strong></p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Match Report:</strong></p>
<p><strong> </strong> Much like one season ago, it was a cool, rainy evening in beautiful Portland, Oregon that provided the backdrop for the Portland Timbers vs. Philadelphia Union season opener at JELD-WEN field. John Spencer’s side had come into the season opener off an unbeaten pre-season schedule that saw them score 11 goals and only concede 3 in 7 games. The Timbers had not lost to Philadelphia in the 2011 season and the impressive home turnout was hoping that this would continue into 2012 but Philadelphia Union were looking to spoil the party.</p>
<p><strong>1<sup>st</sup> Half:</strong></p>
<p> The opening exchanges were fairly even as the home side looked to impose themselves onto the game and it was Eric Alexander who went close first with curling right footed-shot from the left hand side of the penalty which Union keeper Zac MacMath could only tip just around the post on 8 minutes. Almost immediately afterwards Portland thought they should have had a penalty when Jorge Perlaza was seemingly pulled back just inside the penalty area after some shoddy defending from Philadelphia. Referee Baldomero Toledo waved appeals away.</p>
<p> The Timbers continued to press throughout the opening 20 minutes and went close when Kris Boyd left it for Perlaza who headed back in front of Boyd but his shot was smothered by the on-rushing MacMath. With 23 minutes gone Kris Boyd and Carlos Valdes suffered a clash of heads and there was a worry for the Union who did not have any defenders on their bench, but Valdes was able to carry on. The game fell pretty flat through the rest of the first half with possession being given away cheaply from both sides. The Philadelphia Union did a good job of keeping the game tight towards the latter part of the first half and they managed to see out the opening waves of attack by the Timbers who left the field the more frustrated of the two sides.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Half-Time: Portland Timbers 0-0 Philadelphia Union</strong></p>
<p><strong>Shots: Por 5, Phi 1</strong></p>
<p><strong>Corners: Por 3, Phi 0</strong></p>
<p><strong>Possession: Por 56% Phi 44%</strong></p>
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<p><strong>2<sup>nd</sup> Half:</strong></p>
<p><strong> </strong>With only 2 minutes of the second half gone, Kris Boyd played Eric Alexander down the left wing and his deflected cross found Alhassan whose shot from a tight angle was cleared off the line by the Union defense. Portland clearly began the first half like they did the first, with a quick tempo and a haste to get the ball forward quickly. John Spencer had clearly told them to get the speed of the game moving again as it was suiting the away side far too much.</p>
<p> With 51 mins on the clock tho it was the Philadelphia Union who took the lead through a free-kick that skimmed off the head of Timbers youngster Jean-Baptiste from Gomez shot that was heading in. 1-0 Union!</p>
<p> Just 2 minutes later the Timbers equalized and it was Jean-Baptiste in the thick of it again, this time heading home into the correct net from a whipped free-kick cross this time from Jack Jewsbury - the ball scrambling under the body of Union keeper MacMath. 1-1! It seemed that the Union goal had really woken up the Timbers who were beginning to have decent opportunities and applying high pressure whenever the Union had the ball.</p>
<p> The game had by now (around the 60<sup>th</sup> minute mark) really opened up and it was the Timbers really applying the pressure and looking to attack with speed and purpose at every opportunity. Philadelphia had tried to freshen things up in attack when they brought on Danny Mwanga for the ineffective Josue Martinez. It was to no avail though as the Timbers went ahead on 65 minutes when the ever-tricky Alhassan whipped in a beauty of a near post cross that was just asking to be put away and Kris Boyd obliged in the exact same that he did in his first game for the Timbers against AIK in preseason. His header was pinpoint and into the far corner that just had Union keeper MacMath glued to the spot as he watched it fly past him 2-1 Timbers!!</p>
<p> On 72 mins Jewsbury delivered in another whipped corner and Boyd once again lost his marker and his header was cleared off the line by Freddie Adu. At this point the Timbers were truly all over the Union and should have been two clear. It was 3-1 on 75 mins as the brilliant Alhassan took on two players out wide and the audaciously chipped brilliantly over the defense and keeper to really put the Timbers in control. 3-1 Timbers!! This place they call JELD-WEN field was really rocking at this time as you might expect.</p>
<p> On 79 minutes Philly took off Michael Farfan and replaced him with Keon Daniel. Kris Boyd came off to a rousing reception on 80 minutes and was replaced by Amobi Okugo as the party continued in the rain in Portland. The last ten minutes was basically a game of cat and mouse as the Timbers allowed the Union to have the ball and then look to break on them with pace but to be honest, Troy Perkins goal was never really under much threat. As the whistle blew, it was noted that Kris Boyd was trending on Twitter worldwide. The crowd who sang throughout the entire game</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Full Time: Portland Timbers 3-1 Philadelphia Union</strong></p>
<p><strong>Shots: Por 14, Phi 6</strong></p>
<p><strong>Corners: Por 4, Phi 1</strong></p>
<p><strong> </strong></p>
<p><strong>Summary:</strong></p>
<p> It was a bright start for the Timbers in the first half but the Philadelphia Union were able to muscle their way into the game and stifle Portland into a frustrating 0-0 half-time score. The Timbers came out to attack in the second half but were caught out by a sucker punch when Gabriel Gomez free kick skimmed off the head of Andrew Jean-Baptiste but he made up for it just two minutes later with an excellent header of his own and then the floodgates opened and two terrific goals by Kris Boyd and my man of the match Kalif Alhassan really took the stuffing out of Philadelphia and put the game to bed. This game was a fine start to the season and this team truly embodies everything about this coach in John Spencer. They fight for each other and they have real capabilities in attack, strengthened this year with the addition of Kris Boyd. The Timbers home form was excellent last season and it is their away form that they must improve on if they want to challenge for the play-offs this time around.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>League Record:</strong></p>
<p><strong>P W D L F A Pts</strong></p>
<p>1 1 0 0 3 1 3</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Mark Henty,</p>
<p>World Football Daily Portland Timbers Correspondent.</p>
Mark Henty
2012-03-13T03:51:00Z
Premier League Recap (March 10-12)
Adam Johnson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Premier-League-Recap-March-10-12/866584376773847027.html
2012-03-12T22:03:00Z
2012-03-12T22:03:00Z
<p>All 20 teams were in action over an exciting 3-day Premier League weekend. Here is how the matches played out.<br /><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><br />Bolton 2-1 QPR</span></p>
<p>The first of two drop zone battles took place in the early match on Saturday when Bolton hosted struggling QPR. This match had its share of controversy as Clint Hill’s header crossed the line for QPR, yet wasn’t given by the ref. Bolton would make them pay, when Darren Pratley headed in for 1-0. In the second half, one could say justice was served when Djibril Cisse wasn’t judged offside, even though he was, to tie it at 1-1. QPR attacked more and more but it was Ivan Klasnic and Bolton who would have the last laugh and claim the victory.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Aston Villa 1-0 Fulham</span></p>
<p>This match sat at 0-0 at halftime and looked like it would stay that way but second half sub, Andreas Weimann who replaced Charles N’Zogbia, scored an odd-looking extra time winner to give Villa a huge three points over an in-form Fulham.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Chelsea 1-0 Stoke</span></p>
<p>The Blues first match post AVB wasn’t necessarily total football, but three points were taken, nonetheless. Roberto Di Matteo played the “old guard” and they got the job done, but it was not until Juan Mata came on for Raul Meireles that things got going. Fortunately, for Chelsea, Ricardo Fuller was sent off in the 25<sup>th</sup> minute for a stupid stomp on Branislav Ivanovic, which made things easier. Chelsea created some chances but finally, in the 68<sup>th</sup> minute, Didier Drogba got what would be the winner in a fairly boring match.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Sunderland 1-0 Liverpool</span></p>
<p>Both of these sides came in on a losing streak and their managers were in need of a win. It was Matin O’Neill’s team that would get that win with a fortunate goal that fell straight into the path of Niklas Bendtner, who finished well. Liverpool’s slide continues and Sunderland is now back on track after this match.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Wolves 0-2 Blackburn</span></p>
<p>This was the second relegation battle and two goals from the lively Canadian, David Hoilett, gave Steve Kean and Blackburn a huge away win.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Everton 1-0 Tottenham</span></p>
<p>Spurs third loss in a row has them in danger of losing their third place spot that they did so well to get in the first place. It took a great finish from new Everton signing, Nikica Jelavic, to go ahead as the battle of American keepers raged on. Tottenham created many chances in the second half but were kept out by Tim Howard and the post. Harry Redknapp was disappointed but the finishing has to be better if they want to stay in third spt.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Manchester United 2-0 West Brom</span></p>
<p>Wayne Rooney’s brace fired United to the top of the table following Man City’s loss in Wales. Rooney’s first goal came after some great movement and play from Paul Scholes and Chicharito. In the second half, West Brom had a penalty claim turned down and United kept on attacking. Naturally, United got their penalty claim when Keith Andrews pulled down Ashley Young. Rooney converted, and that was that.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Swansea 1-0 Manchester City</span></p>
<p>This loss for City could be decisive in their race for the title. It even started poorly, as Joe Hart gave away a penalty. Although he would save Scott Sinclair’s attempt, the alarm bells were ringing. Swansea got their goal when a poor pass by Stefan Savic was intercepted and Luke Moore went unmarked and headed home. Micah Richards thought he had an equalizer but was ruled rightly, but barely, offside. Swansea probably deserved this result.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Norwich 1-1 Wigan</span></p>
<p>Wigan’s late equalizer was indicative of Norwich’s recent form and showed the never-say-die attitude that Roberto Martinez wants to see more often from his Wigan players. A Victor Moses goal canceled out Norwich’s Wes Hoolahan’s opening goal for a share of the points.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Arsenal 2-1 Newcastle </span></p>
<p>It was an incredible finish to a wild night in north London as Arsenal stayed three points ahead of Chelsea and remained one point behind Tottenham. Newcastle came to play and actually took the lead when Hatem Ben Arfa’s low shot crept into the near post. Just 53 seconds later, Robin van Persie neatly turned and finished off a Theo Walcott cross to draw level. The chances flowed in this game and RVP and Newcastle goalkeeper, Tim Krul, who are international teammates, went at it verbally on more than one occasion. In the last ten minutes Arsenal pressed and pressed and in the 95<sup>th</sup> minute got the winner when Thomas Vermaelen made up a ton of ground and finished off the frantic Arsenal attack. The Gunners have now won five in a row and the louder than usual Emirates crowd was showing their appreciation. </p>
Adam Johnson
2012-03-12T22:03:00Z
Liver n' Onions: RVP Strikes Back
Nash Larson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Liver-n-Onions:-RVP-Strikes-Back/-221508782884379083.html
2012-03-07T09:36:00Z
2012-03-07T09:36:00Z
<p>Before the praises where sung of Liverpool's triumphant penalty kick shoot-out win in the Carling Cup final, Liver n' Onions wanted to see how the reds would fair at the weekend against Arsenal. I, like many took their recent form into account in making a prediction wrongfully or not. This said Arsenal was not a stale bag of bread, in terms of form- still riding high off the 5-2 trouncing of city rivals Tottenham. Giving the Reds my much invested faith I put a ten on them to shove the Gunners back down the barrel of the gun they have be residing in for most of the year. But it's a home game, how did that slip my mind…It was the early kickoff being staged at ever growing performance cesspit known as Anfield. Much to my chagrin, that ten dollars I had riding on them did not stand a chance. Before I continue this quick photo compilation sums up Liverpool's,</p>
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<p><em><strong>Form away from Anfield:</strong></em></p>
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<p class="separator"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-E8mIRU98U_E/T1crTn-LkgI/AAAAAAAAArY/t_A0nqXb24g/s1600/liver+n'+Onions+.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-E8mIRU98U_E/T1crTn-LkgI/AAAAAAAAArY/t_A0nqXb24g/s400/liver+n'+Onions+.jpg" border="0" alt="" width="400" height="266" /></a></p>
<p><br /> <em><strong>Form at Anfield:</strong></em></p>
<p class="separator"> </p>
<p class="separator"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wqA4JVycgmc/T1crMk5ZUOI/AAAAAAAAArQ/gXk1yJI9dEE/s1600/rvp-new1_1464099a.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wqA4JVycgmc/T1crMk5ZUOI/AAAAAAAAArQ/gXk1yJI9dEE/s320/rvp-new1_1464099a.jpg" border="0" alt="" width="261" height="320" /></a></p>
<p>Pretty much sums it up, you could say proofs in the Persie…If you may. Arsenal snapped Liverpool's unbeaten home streak with their 2-1 coup at Anfield. It may have been the first loss, but draws have been a plenty. Looking at the content of the 90 'minutes played on Saturday you would render a win was in the offing for the Reds. Arsenal looked shabby in possession and lost their midfield quarterback Mikel Arteta through a rather ambiguous injury. Top-four hopefuls Liverpool had their chances but what has separated them from a team that would make that final Champions League spot their own is their ineptness to take chances. Prior to the game the Liverpool attacking unit had only managed 12 goals between them. Top scores Craig Bellamy and Luis Suarez are on 6 which is frankly not good enough. The look of disgust on Dirk Kuyt's face after his poorly taken penalty was saved by the keeper Scezney said it all. With the better play falling on the side of Liverpool, the man, the myth and the monster Robin van Persie struck again, to compound woes even further. A game where Liverpool should have had 3-points in the wallet, they emerged with none. You just cannot stop the Dutch maestro, he's so hot you could cook an omelet on him. His volley in the 3rd minute of stoppage time was superbly taken, leaving Pepe Reina with no chance, even at his front post.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>I wouldn't chalk down the absence of players to Liverpool's loss, because it really was a smash and grab performance by the Gunners. But this said pundits have come out asserting that Liverpool is still way too dependent on their Captain Steven Gerrard, who did not play at the weekend. Ok i would agree to some extent, as Liverpool look lost i the midfield when he's not playing, lacking a supplemented vision with players like Charlie Adam and Jordan Henderson. Ever since the exit of now Real Madrid's Xabi Alonso and Barcelona's Javier Mascherano the reliance on Gerrad has become too much, though for many years he has been capable of doing it all. To these pundits I would pull the tainted victory mask off and look at Arsenals situation. Would Arsenal have won that game if not for their captain Robin van Persie? He does it all for Arsenal, he has scored 31goals in all competitions this season, and is top goal scorer in the Premier League. He has rescued Arsenal on numerous occasions with his goals, leading by example. Would Theo Walcott have pulled off the same deft dagger in the dying embers of the game…I don't thinks so. Liverpool's over reliance on Gerrard is a notion holds water, but so does Arsenals over reliance on Van Persie. I pose this question: If one team where to lose their star man, Arsenal- RVP and Liverpool- Gerrard, who would be worse off? </p>
<p> </p>
<p class="separator"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BEiGLkZAuG4/T1cr0CoLOoI/AAAAAAAAArg/kD1vDlimtsg/s1600/Kuyt+p.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BEiGLkZAuG4/T1cr0CoLOoI/AAAAAAAAArg/kD1vDlimtsg/s400/Kuyt+p.jpg" border="0" alt="" width="400" height="243" /></a></p>
<p> Liverpool and Arsenal's situations are not all that dissimilar. Two teams that are, or once were part of the fabled top four, have since fallen from grace and are repairing the damages trying coping with the fallout. Both have long standing managers who have come under scrutiny. Arsene Wenger in terms of longevity as manager, and Kenny Dalglish with his association to Liverpool, as player and manager. Both struggle to find a cohesive squad of players. Arsenals reluctancy to buy opting to rely on youth, and Liverpool's over-spending on un-proven talent. Where they finish in the league this year is really anyones guess, and both will certainly have to fight to get into the top 4.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>A little nibblet to munch on before Liverpool faces Sunderland at the weekend.</p>
<p>Stay Oniony my friends....</p>
<p>And don't forget to check out more @ <a href="http://spotkickjournalism.blogspot.com/">spotkickjournalism.blogspot.com</a></p>
<p> </p>
Nash Larson
2012-03-07T09:36:00Z
Portland Timbers Preseason vs. AIK Futboll
Mark Henty
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Portland-Timbers-Preseason-vs.-AIK-Futboll/-308325735558300932.html
2012-03-06T19:32:00Z
2012-03-06T19:32:00Z
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<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Portland</strong><strong> Timbers 1-0 AIK Futboll</strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong> </strong><strong> </strong><strong style="text-align: center;">March 4, 2012</strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Preseason Tournament</strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Crowd: 17,357</strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Weather: Sunny – 54 Degrees</strong></p>
<p> <strong>Match Preview:</strong></p>
<p><strong> </strong> One a rare, beautiful, Sunny Sunday in Portland, Oregon, the Portland Timbers completed their preseason with a match against 11-time Swedish champions, AIK Futboll. AIK were unbeaten coming into this final game of the round robin tournament having sealed a 2-0 victory over Chivas USA last Monday and then drawing 0-0 in a more lackluster game against the San Jose Earthquakes on Thursday.</p>
<p> The Timbers, had enjoyed an undefeated preseason including an impressive win over the LA Galaxy in Los Angeles and came into this final game having drawn both of their first two against San Jose and Chivas USA 1-1 on Monday and Thursday respectively. Preseason of course, is just that and with many players out and full-strength teams often not put out it is difficult to really gauge how far a team has come in the close season and how well they are prepared for the new one but the Timbers have been good to watch and seem to be no the right path with the new season fast approaching. Some decent business has been done during the transfer period with signings such as the exciting midfielder Patrick Songo’o and Scottish International Kris Boyd.</p>
<p> With the San Jose Earthquakes having thumped Chivas USA 5-0 in the 2:30pm kick-off, only AIK could win the round-robin group as they were on 4 points to San Jose’s 5 and the Timbers’ 2. It was a dream start for new signing Kris Boyd in his first game for the Timbers as he coolly glanced home a header from Kalif Alhassan’s right-wing early cross on 6 minutes. It truly was the finish of an old pro who knew what he was doing and it’s pretty clear that his big frame and awareness are going to prove nightmares for defenses this season in the MLS. If pacey players like Jorge Perlaza or Bright Dike can feed off his knock-downs, it could be a very successful season for the Timbers in attack</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>1<sup>st</sup> Half:</strong></p>
<p><strong> </strong> With the Timbers pretty much dominating the opening exchanges, the game then settled into a ‘cat and mouse’ affair with Portland looking to get forward at every opportunity, with emphasis on utilizing the wide men. For the most part AIK dealt with the pressure pretty well but Jorge Perlaza missed a decent chance with 26 minutes on the clock when he fired into the side-netting from just inside the penalty area. AIK began to get into the game around the half hour mark with a couple of half-chances, a shot from outside the box easily dealt with by Troy Perkins and a couple of corners that came to nothing. They did force a half-decent save out of Perkins though when Robin Quaison thundered a 30 yard free-kick at the center of the goal in the 41<sup>st</sup> minute. Perkins chose not to try to catch it and instead force it over the bar. Kris Boyd went close again for the Timbers just before the break with another header this time at the far post but it lacked the pace to get past a grateful Ivana Turina who scooped the ball up as it bounced up at him. Jack Jewsbury, who didn’t have a great half was booked in the 22 minute for a reckless challenge.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Half-Time: Portland Timbers 1-0 AIK Futboll</strong></p>
<p><strong> </strong></p>
<p><strong>2<sup>nd</sup> Half:</strong></p>
<p> AIK began the second half well with a decent attempt from outside the area from Captain Daniel Tjernstrom that forced Troy Perkins into a diving save on his left hand side in the 51<sup>st</sup> minute. The Timbers almost had another through Kris Boyd who was put through in the 55<sup>th</sup> minute by Alhassan but he didn’t really get a decent shot away and Turina forced it out for a corner. The Timbers crowd was angered in the 58<sup>th</sup> minute when Kalif Alhassan danced brilliantly around three AIK defenders and was seemingly clattered into at the by line by Nils-Eric Johansson. It was an ugly challenge and some referees might well have given a penalty for such a clumsy challenge.</p>
<p> Into the last 30 minutes and the Portland Timbers went close again, this time it was Rodney Wallace, fresh from international duty midweek with Costa Rica who drilled at shot low to Turina’s right but the Croatian keeper was able to get his hands to it. AIK defender Niklas Backman was given a yellow card for a foul right on the edge of the penalty area as Alhassan looked to skip past him again and the resulting free-kick was blasted low and deflected out for a corner.</p>
<p> AIK brought on a couple of 20 year olds in Kwame Karikari and Alexander Milosevic and their best chance came with 20 minutes to go as Karikari looked to do exactly what Kris Boyd did in the first half from a cross by Daniel Gustavsson but he pushed his header wide of the target. Karikari then wriggled free of Mosquera as AIK pressed the now slightly tired-looking Timbers with ten minutes to go but his shot was easily smothered by Perkins in the Timbers goal. Just 2 minutes later Timbers wide man Alhassan once again danced around another hapless AIK defender and placed a cross right onto substitute (for Kris Boyd in the 75<sup>th</sup> minute) Bright Dikes’ head who could only power it straight at Turina.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Full Time: Portland Timbers 1-0 AIK Futboll</strong></p>
<p><strong>Shots: Por 4, AIK 6</strong></p>
<p><strong>Corners: Por 13, AIK 11</strong></p>
<p><strong> </strong></p>
<p><strong>Summary:</strong></p>
<p> The Portland Timbers played with a higher tempo than either of their two previous games in the tournament and they deserved the victory. Kris Boyd came through 75 minutes and although clearly not match-fit, he looks the real deal and could help to push the Portland Timbers up into a play-off place this season. Alhassan was very impressive tonight and gets the MOTM award for me. 17,357 turned out to support their team on this mild Sunday afternoon and they will be the 12<sup>th</sup> man on the pitch again this season as their enthusiasm continues to push their side onwards and upwards.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Final Table:</strong></p>
<p><strong>Pos Team P W D L F A Pts</strong></p>
<p>1. San Jose Earthquakes 3 1 2 0 6 1 5</p>
<p>2. Portland Timbers 3 1 2 0 3 2 5</p>
<p>3. AIK Futboll 3 1 1 1 2 1 4</p>
<p>4. Chivas USA 3 0 1 2 1 8 1</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Mark Henty,<br /><strong>World Football Daily Portland Timbers Correspondent.</strong><br /><strong>Twitter:</strong> @MarkHenty</p>
Mark Henty
2012-03-06T19:32:00Z
Premier League Recap (March 3-4)
Adam Johnson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Premier-League-Recap-March-3-4/227840412809473304.html
2012-03-05T06:31:00Z
2012-03-05T06:31:00Z
<p>This weekend we had the regular ten games on the docket, and only a couple of them didn’t have big table implications, huge drama, or the fate of a manager on the line. There were so many quality and timely goals this week, lets get right to it.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Liverpool 1-2 Arsenal</span></p>
<p>This was another great showing by the Gunners. For some reason, they get up for random big games and look like a really good team on occasion. Liverpool took the lead in this game, however, and looked the better side most of the first half. First Luis Suarez won a penalty that Dirk Kuyt would step up and take. Wojciech Szczesny saved the penalty then somehow got back across the goal to save the rebound, completing one of the greatest double saves I have ever seen. The Reds pushed on though and eventually got the goal when Laurent Koscielny put Jordan Henderson’s cross into his own net. Just eight minutes later though, Robin van Persie rose up and of course, scored to equalize. It stayed that way until halftime and as the second half wore on, both teams looked like they could win it. There was only one man that had the quality to actually do so. RVP stepped up and smashed in the winner in stoppage time with a volley reminiscent of his winner against Everton earlier this season. Both keepers made great saves at different points in the match, but the best player in the Premier League proved as much and came to the rescue for his team again.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Blackburn 1-1 Aston Villa</span></p>
<p>I guess this is a good point for Blackburn, but Villa just continues to disappoint this season. Charles N’Zogbia scored for the Villans but they couldn’t double that lead and David Dunn would make them pay with a second half goal to get the draw.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">QPR 1-1 Everton</span></p>
<p>Both goals came in the firs half of this one, with Royston Drenthe scoring for Everton, then giving up the free kick that Bobby Zamora would eventually equalize from. Both sides carved a couple chances and QPR missed a couple sitters but a point each was probably fair.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Stoke 1-0 Norwich</span></p>
<p>Stoke got back to being Stoke on Saturday and pounded out a 1-0 home win. Matthew Etherington got the lone goal when he smashed home after 72 minutes had been played. This win saw Stoke jump their opponents in the table.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Manchester City 2-0 Bolton</span></p>
<p>Another grind-it-out win for City in which the defense looks impenetrable and the attack looks potent. Both goals had some good fortune in them, with Gael Clichy’s shot taking a big deflection and Adam Johnson’s run that led to the Mario Balotelli goal being helped by the Bolton defense, but that is what good teams do. City has learned how to take advantage of mistakes and not allow soft goals, which is the mark of future champions, if you ask me.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Wigan 0-2 Swansea</span></p>
<p>Wigan manager, Roberto Martinez, was facing his former team, Swansea, who are better now than when he managed the club. A brace from Gylfi Sigurdsson was good enough for all three points, even with just ten men for the last 30 minutes.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">West Brom 1-0 Chelsea</span></p>
<p>As we would find out a day later, this would be Andre Villas-Boas’ last match in charge of Chelsea Football Club. Gareth McCauley would be the man to put the final nail in AVB’s coffin as his 82<sup>nd</sup> minute goal gave West Brom a famous home victory. You have to feel for the Portuguese manager, but it probably is the right call to get rid of him.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Newcastle 1-1 Sunderland</span></p>
<p>The typically volatile derby was everything advertised as the Black Cats gained a nice away point at St. James’ Park. Lee Cattermole, naturally, got an early yellow card but it was his Sunderland who would soon be in the lead when Niklas Bendtner converted from the spot. It would get harder for Sunderland, though, because Stephane Sessegnon would be sent off for a stupid hit to the face of Cheik Tiote. It stayed 1-0 until Shola Ameobi drew a penalty, but Demba Ba would miss. No worries, said Ameobi, as he popped up with a goal in the last minute to save a point for the Geordies.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Fulham 5-0 Wolves</span></p>
<p>However great the two-goal comeback last weekend was for Wolves, this match was the exact opposite. Andrew Johnson, Pavel Pogrebnyak, and Clint Dempsey tore open the Wolves defense, time and time again, to the tune of five goals. The strikes were split between Pogrebnyak and Dempsey, two for the latter, and three for the former.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Tottenham 1-3 Manchester United</span></p>
<p>This was one of those matches that the result did not tell the whole story. Now, as much as United was dominated in this game, you have to credit them for finishing their chances. Spurs threw everything at the Red Devils but could not get the ball across the line. Wayne Rooney did, however, for United and it came on a header just before halftime. Tottenham didn’t seem to be too rattled but two goals from Ashley Young, still against the run of play, took the wind completely out of their sails. Jermaine Defoe did get a late consolation but it didn’t mean much as Spurs lost more ground to the Manchester clubs this weekend and probably completely keep the out of the title race.</p>
<p>Team of the week this time around is going to Fulham. They are slowly sliding up the table and their five-star performance on Saturday was further proof that they belong in the top half. The player of the week, once again, has to go to Robin van Persie. The man is unreal, and not only puts the ball in the back of the net, but also does so with style and at huge moments in matches. I love watching this guy and pray that he stays fit; regardless of what team he plays for next season. The calendar has turned to March and the matches are getting bigger and bigger for all 20 clubs. The other 19 clubs are surely thinking, if only we had our own RVP.</p>
Adam Johnson
2012-03-05T06:31:00Z
The Race Is On
A.J. Nelson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/The-Race-Is-On/533096046620608227.html
2012-03-05T02:50:00Z
2012-03-05T02:50:00Z
Watching the La Liga games with players sprinting down the pitch, sending precision passes 30 yards and beyond, twisting and turning before sending the ball in to the back of the net, slow is definitely not the word. However, there are 38 La Liga games alone and the combination of those games plus the Copa Del Rey plus the Champions League along with international commitments (which the vast amount of starters for Real Madrid and Barcelona are called up for) can be grueling. The season is a marathon, not a sprint.
<p>Barcelona has tripped in this year’s marathon more than ever with 2 losses and a startling 6 draws. Real Madrid has also lost 2, but they have kept their focus and drawn only once, making the gap between the two teams 10 points. This weekend, the La Liga curtain seemed to be drawing on Barcelona. They were a man down within 2 minutes of the start of the second half, and their opponent, Sporting de Gijón, had tied the game, were looking strong, and Barcelona was looking shaky. Barcelona’s best player, Lionel Messi, wasn’t even on the bench (being rested) and who comes up huge – a man not known for his scoring abilities – Seydou Keita, scoring his first goal in La Liga this season. When the chips are down, Barcelona’s unlikely goal scorers step up. When all was said and done, even with a man down, Barcelona pulled out the win, placing the pressure back on Real Madrid. It would only take one loss by Madrid to dramatically chip away at the 10 point gap, given that Barcelona still faces Madrid at home and are unlikely to lose – they haven’t lost at home yet this year.</p>
<p>Madrid seems up to the task, however. Facing Espanyol (the other Barcelona squad) with several key players out with injuries, they looked stronger than ever. Although they started somewhat slow (a recurring theme this season), Madrid controlled the ball, was patient and scored goals. 5 in total from 4 different sources: 2 for Gonzalo Higuain, and one a piece for Sami Khedira, Kaká and Cristiano Ronaldo. It was a team effort, with unselfish players working for a common goal. If Madrid continues on this path, there is no telling what they can do.</p>
<p>With 12 games to go, winning La Liga is becoming more of a certainty for Madrid. However, with the Champions League becoming more challenging, end of the season injuries starting to build and exhaustion kicking in for the players, Madrid will have to remain focused, because as most marathon runners will tell you, it’s the last mile that is the hardest.</p>
<p><em>A.J. Nelson can be found on Twitter @FootieObsessed</em></p>
A.J. Nelson
2012-03-05T02:50:00Z
Ranieri admits to Inter slump
Thomas Rooney
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Ranieri-admits-to-Inter-slump/-452248514403524486.html
2012-02-29T15:53:00Z
2012-02-29T15:53:00Z
<p> </p>
<p>Those searching for the best <a href="http://www.ticketcenter.com/">Ticket Center</a> note how Inter are now winless in their last seven and have lost their last four after last night’s defeat which saw Marseille’s Andre Ayew’s late effort give the French side the advantage going into the second leg at the San Siro next month.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Ranieri believes that luck has conspired against his side during their poor spell, and says his side did more than enough to claim victory in the last 16 tie.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>"We knew they would come out strongly and add plenty of pressure in the first half, but we had good chances to take the lead," Ranieri told Sky Sport Italia.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>"This was a snapshot of our situation, when things go wrong, they really go wrong.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>"The tie is not over, if the stadium is filled with our fans, we can turn the score around," he added.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Perhaps Inter’s lowest point of the season came little under two weeks ago when they stumbled to a 1-0 home defeat against lowly Novara, a defeat they followed up with a 3-0 humbling at the hands of Bologna at the San Siro.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>More worryingly for Ranieri, who took over from Gian Piero Gasperini whose three months and five matches in the job yielded four defeats and one draw to leave the Nerazzurri in the relegation zone, is his sides lack of composure in front of goal.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Both <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diego_Forl%C3%A1n">Diego Forlan</a> and Mauro Zarate missed clear cut chances to five Inter a precious away goal and the upper hand in the tie against Marseille, while in their seven game winless run they have scored just four goals, all of which came in the 4-4 draw with Palermo.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Ranieri bemoaned his side’s lack of cutting edge against Marseille, with the former Chelsea boss insisting that his sides’ misfortunes of late are largely down to lady luck not being on their side.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>"I needed quick players who are good in one-on-one situations," Ranieri commented. "[Diego] Milito was not at 100 per cent.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>"We missed luck, which has not been with us lately. Marseille hardly took a shot on goal. We are going through a negative moment. We did not deserve to lose this match."</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Inter sit in 7<sup>th</sup> place in Serie A, 14 points off cross-city rivals A.C Milan at the top of the table.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>There is no respite for the 2010 Champions League winners as they travel to Naples next weekend to play an in-form Napoli side that have already put one foot in the quarter-finals of the Champions League with a 3-1 home win over Chelsea on Tuesday.</p>
Thomas Rooney
2012-02-29T15:53:00Z
Premier League and Carling Cup Final Recap (February 25-26)
Adam Johnson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Premier-League-and-Carling-Cup-Final-Recap-February-25-26/182716763116355369.html
2012-02-27T21:28:00Z
2012-02-27T21:28:00Z
<p>There were nine Premier League games this weekend due to the Carling Cup Final, and all of them had an impact on one of the races in the table. Then there was the Final itself, which saw Liverpool take home their first trophy since 2006. So, ten games to recap, here we go.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Chelsea 3-0 Bolton</span></p>
<p>Chelsea, and more importantly their manager, had to get all three points on Saturday. Luckily for them, Bolton was in town and wouldn’t provide much of a challenge. It was 0-0 at the break but that would change quickly in the second half. David Luiz scored the opener to further the belief that he may be playing out of position. The old boys, Didier Drogba and Frank Lampard, scored the second and third to collect the much needed points.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Newcastle 2-2 Wolves</span></p>
<p>This is a disappointing draw for Newcastle and their hopes of staying with the London clubs for the Champions League spots. The Geordie’s looked great in the first half with Papiss Demba Cisse and Jonas Gutierrez giving them a two-goal lead but things would change after halftime. Matthew Jarvis got one back for Wolves before Kevin Doyle leveled in the 66<sup>th</sup> minute. Well done to new manager Terry Connor for getting a big away point.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">QPR 0-1 Fulham</span></p>
<p>Mark Hughes was facing one of his old clubs when his QPR hosted Fulham on Saturday. Pavel Pogrebnyak scored in the 7<sup>th</sup> minute for Fulham then, to make matters worse for the home side, Samba Diakite was sent off for his second yellow. QPR did well to hold Fulham to the one goal but it wasn’t enough as they dropped another home match.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">West Brom 4-0 Sunderland</span></p>
<p>The new manager shine may just be coming off of Sunderland’s Martin O’Neill. His side was smashed at the Hawthorns on Saturday by a below average West Brom. On this day, the Baggies were more than average and got off to a great start when Peter Odemwingie scored in the 3<sup>rd</sup> minute. He added another one between James Morrison and Keith Andrews strikes to make it five in two matches. After their last two matches I can’t see this club going down.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Wigan 0-0 Aston Villa</span></p>
<p>A poor side and a mediocre side met for this scoreless draw. Neither team could afford a loss, so both go home with a point.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Manchester City 3-0 Blackburn</span></p>
<p>The sky blue side of Manchester is starting to look strong again. Mario Balotelli got back on the scorers sheet to give City the advantage that they would never give up. Sergio Aguero and Edin Dzeko each added one in a strong, well rounded, second half performance.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Norwich 1-2 Manchester United</span></p>
<p>Yes, United picked up three points and kept pace with City, but Ryan Giggs 900<sup>th</sup> appearance and game-winning goal was the story here. Paul Scholes gave United the lead but Grant Holt tied it up in the 83<sup>rd</sup> minute. Then it was Giggs’ turn to steal the show. His stoppage time finish, thanks to a brilliant ball from Ashley Young, capped off his landmark appearance.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Arsenal 5-2 Tottenham</span></p>
<p>What a wild match this was. The North London derby usually provides us with entertaining football and goals but this match was just crazy. Tottenham started on the front foot and took the lead very early when Luis Saha’s deflected shot fell in. Spurs continued to look confident and doubled that lead when Emmanuel Adebayor converted a rather soft penalty drawn by Gareth Bale. It was then that Arsenal, seemingly pissed about the penalty, grabbed the game by the throat. They started moving the ball with precision and actually started looking like the team they can be. Bacary Sagna rose high and headed home for the first and Robin van Persie scored a beauty for the second, and this was all before halftime. Harry Redknapp, for some reason, took off Niko Kranjcar and Luis Saha at halftime for Rafa van der Vaart and Sandro. This instantly made them more narrow and predictable, and Arsenal took advantage. The Gunners scored three straight goals and somehow outpaced the pacy Tottenham. Thomas Rosicky actually scored a Messi-esque goal before Theo Walcott scored two in three minutes to finish it off. The Emirates was rocking, and for good reason, this was a massive win for Arsenal.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Carling Cup Final- Liverpool 2-2 Cardiff</span> (Liverpool wins 3-2 on penalties)</p>
<p>There is another trophy in the Liverpool cabinet today, but it really did not come easily. Cardiff started off poorly but got a goal against the run of play when Joe Mason cooly finished. There was a confidence about the Welsh club but Liverpool got their deserved goal when Martin Skyrtel poked home after a scramble in the box. Both teams had a couple of chances but extra time would be needed. It looked like the match was going in the Reds favor when Dirk Kuyt’s second chance shot snuck home to give his side the lead, but Cardiff wasn’t done yet. On one of their only corners of the match, Ben Turner scored to tie it at 2-2. It was on to penalties. The shootout started with three misses two on the Liverpool side (including Steven Gerrard). After Kuyt, Stuart Downing, and Glen Johnson all scored it was up to Steven’s cousin, Anthony Gerrard, to keep the thing going. Unfortunately for Cardiff though, he missed and Liverpool and their traveling fans celebrated at Wembley for the first time in awhile. </p>
Adam Johnson
2012-02-27T21:28:00Z
Ibrahimovic warns of Arsenal fightback
Thomas Rooney
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Ibrahimovic-warns-of-Arsenal-fightback/-138219059302297232.html
2012-02-25T15:56:00Z
2012-02-25T15:56:00Z
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">
<p>Even those working in the <a href="http://www.casinodirectory.com/">best casinos</a> note how goals from former Tottenham player Kevin Prince-Boateng, two efforts from Robinho and a penalty from Ibrahimovic secured the Rossoneri a clear first league advantage against their Premier League opponents.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The Swedish international was at the heart of Milan’s impressive performance that swept aside Arsenal, with the Swedish international setting up two goals to add to his converted penalty he won following a foul from Johan Djourou in the 79<sup>th</sup> minute.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Milan have been knocked out of the Champions League by English clubs in the last four seasons, prompting former Italian president and Milan owner Silvio Burlusconi to admit the club had a ‘taboo’ in Europe against British clubs.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The result left Gunners boss Arsene Wenger lamenting the ‘worst night’ he had ever experienced at the club in Europe, but Ibrahimovic insisted that the tie was not dead and buried just yet.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>"It was a night of great emotion because we won a difficult match with a great result and the side played brilliantly. You don't beat Arsenal 4-0 every day," Ibrahimovic was quoted as saying on the Uefa website.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>"We are happy to take this first leg result over to London. Everybody helped each other out, we played with a great tempo, we played intelligently and everyone showed a great will to win. Above all, we showed the right mentality tonight.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>"However it's not over yet. This is only the first leg. We'll have to stay focused for the return in London and then we'll see how we get on," the Scandinavia forward stated.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The game marked a low point in <a href="http://www.givemefootball.com/premier-league/arsene-wenger-at-arsenal-highs-and-lows">Wenger’s 16 years in charge of Arsena</a><strong>l</strong> as the Gunners succumbed to their heaviest ever European defeat, while they are far from guaranteed a place in next year’s competition as they battle with Chelsea and Liverpool for the fourth and final league qualifying spot.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Wenger was damning in his criticism of his side’s efforts, admitting it was a ‘shocking’ performance that left them needing to become the first team ever to come back from four goals down in order to qualify for the quarter finals.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>"It is our worst night in Europe. We were punished and deservedly so. I felt we were never in the game, we were very poor offensively and defensively. It was shocking to see how we were beaten everywhere,” he said.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>"There was not one moment in the 90 minutes where we were really in the game. What made it worse was that we had to chase the game. It was always the same problem, balls over the top and we were well beaten. It is difficult to analyse. I think it is better not to talk too much …and to analyse with a cooler head and regroup for the next game." </p>
<p> </p>
</span>
Thomas Rooney
2012-02-25T15:56:00Z
La Liga Gameweek 24 Preview
Joseph Zucker
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/La-Liga-Gameweek-24-Preview/-339996711190236537.html
2012-02-25T04:01:00Z
2012-02-25T04:01:00Z
Considering the fact that it’s already midweek, it would seem a bit out of place to write a La Liga recap. With that in mind, here’s a little preview for the weekend’s action ahead, with the four matches that you should be watching.<br /><br /><strong>Espanyol v. Levante (Saturday 4:00 EST)</strong><br />Previous result: Levante 3-1 Espanyol<br />This is a matchup of 5 v. 7 in the table and the teams are only separated by a point, so it should be a good game. However, it could also turn out to be a drubbing because Levante are definitely on the decline. It appears the bubble has finally burst for Levante. After weeks of hanging on to their Champions League place, they were leapfrogged by both Athletic Bilbao and Espanyol. The fact they remain seventh is more of a testament to the teams around them dropping points rather than Levante actually picking them up. They have still yet to win a league match since their 1-0 defeat of Sevilla on December 10. Another loss here would almost condemn them to the middle of the league table for the rest of the season. Although there’s still 14 games left after this week, it’s hard to see Levante being able to rebound after yet another loss. However, a win could kickstart their Champions League campaign again. Espanyol have been a very good club at the Estadi Cornellà-El Prat. They have picked up 20 of a possible 33 points at home compared to only 13 of 36 away. I’ll predict a reverse of these teams’ previous matchup<br />Prediction: Espanyol 3-1 Levante<br /><br /><strong>Villarreal v. Athletic Bilbao (Sunday 6:00 EST)</strong><br />Previous result: Athletic Bilbao 1-1 Villarreal<br />These two teams met in the fifth week of the season. Athletic was still getting used to the tactics of new manager Marcelo Bielsa and Villarreal was yet to endure the tailspin that saw them in the relegation zone. Villarreal has been playing better under José Francisco Molina, last week’s 4-0 loss to Mallorca aside. Their defense has been playing very well, so Bilbao will have a hard time breaking them down. After sputtering in injury time two weeks in a row, Bilbao picked up three big points against Málaga last week. Athletic now sit fourth in the table, and it’s a position that they look like they can hold on to for the rest of the season. Despite sitting in 17th place, Villarreal are still only seven points behind Athletic, so a win could almost get them in contention for a European, and even Champions League place. It is a far cry from where the club was earlier in the season. Athletic, though, really look to be hitting their stride under Bielsa. It took a little while for them to get used to Bielsa’s system, but the club has been very patient and that looks to be paying off. Still, Villarreal definitely has more than a good chance to pick up at least a draw this week, especially with the match at El Madrigal. <br />Prediction: Villarreal 0-1 Athletic Bilbao<br /><br /><strong>Rayo Vallecano v. Real Madrid (Sunday 10:00 EST)</strong><br />Previous result: Real Madrid 6-2 Rayo Vallecano<br />Sid Lowe can’t seem to stop praising this Rayo Vallecano squad. They have looked very good over the past couple of months, and they play a style that is very fun to watch. Rayo’s 5-3 win against Levante was the best match of last week. Diego Costa, on loan from Atlético Madrid, will be the player to watch for Rayo. He’s scored in each of the three games he’s scored for the club. Unfortunately for Rayo, they are facing a Real Madrid that is coming off a draw against CSKA Moscow in which Madrid surrendered an injury time goal. They will be definitely looking to take out some frustration on Sunday. With that said, it hasn’t been the results against the top clubs in Spain that has given Madrid the most trouble over the past couple of seasons. It was dropped points against mid-table clubs like Rayo that prevented them from lifting the title. And if you’re going to steal points against Madrid, it’s going to be away from the Santiago Bernabéu. Away from home, they have managed to drop a whopping five points, almost double their home tally. If things go too badly, this match will just be worth it to see how Cristiano Ronaldo responds to Lionel Messi’s four goals last week.<br />Prediction: Rayo Vallecano 1-4 Real Madrid<br /><br /><strong>Atlético Madrid v. Barcelona (Sunday 3:30 EST)</strong><br />Previous result: Barcelona 5-0 Atlético Madrid<br />The scoreline in the first matchup was actually quite generous to Atlético Madrid. Barcelona completely dominated the match and could have easily scored seven or eight. It dug Atleti in a hole that former manager Gregorio Manzano could never fully get the club out of. The match could do the same for new manager Diego Simeone. Ever since his arrival, Atlético has looked like a different club. Morale is up and the club looks like a realistic challenger for the final Champions League spot. However, the club has been struggling to find goals over the last three matches, in which they’ve only managed to pick up 3 points. A good result here could effectively be the sign that Simeone is the guy who can lead Atleti to Europe. However, an embarrassing loss could start the finger-pointing and plunge the club right back to where they were before Simeone’s arrival. For Barcelona, this match, much like every one throughout the rest of the season, is a must-win. Dropped points could mean Madrid strengthening their lead at the top of the table. Don’t chalk this up as three automatic points for Barca, though. Their away form has been incredibly pedestrian this year, at a record of 4-5-2.<br />Prediction: Atlético Madrid 2-4 Barcelona
Joseph Zucker
2012-02-25T04:01:00Z
Alex Morgan- In Nothing But Body Paint
Rafa
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Alex-Morgan--In-Nothing-But-Body-Paint/634233642190874295.html
2012-02-23T19:18:00Z
2012-02-23T19:18:00Z
So I love stories like this. Anytime a smoking hot female footballer takes off her clothes is a good time in my book. <br /><br />Alex Morgan has been on our radar for a while, and James Cranford has been in love with this USWNT forward since before the Women's World Cup. When we heard that Alex was taking her clothes off, only to don the coveted Sports Illustrated Body Paint for the Swimsuit Edition<br /><br />Supposedly, she took her cue from he National team mate Hope Solo who striped down for the ESPN Body Issue. Cant tell if it's a little friendly competition (ESPN v Sports Illustrated perhaps??) or a simple appeasement to her throngs of male fans out there.<br /><br />Below is a compile list of her shots in the mag. Once again, you're welcome.<br /><br /><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/AlexMorganBP02.jpg" alt="" /><br />Great stomach and so fit. Not sure how some of our audience seem to hate on this SI shoot she did.<br /><br /><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/AlexMorganBP03.jpg" alt="" /><br /><br />"What an angle on that shot!" And no, we're not talking football there.<br /><br /><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/AlexMorganBP04.jpg" alt="" /><br /><br />She does have great hair in this photo and tremendous legs.<br /><br /><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/AlexMorganBP05.jpg" alt="" /><br /><br />She looks a bit awkward in this one above...<br /><br /><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/AlexMorganBP06.jpg" alt="" /><br /><br />Wind blowing through her hair and all that. A lot of smile there.<br /><br /><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/AlexMorganBP07.jpg" alt="" /><br /><br />Second favorite photo of the shoot. Go ahead Alex, give us a little over the shoulder look.<br /><br /><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/AlexMorganBP08.jpg" alt="" /><br /><br />And this would be my favorite photo. Great angles, Shows off her assets so well.<br /><br /><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/AlexMorganBP09.jpg" alt="" /><br /><br />I'm sorry the photographer picked this one. Another awkward pose. What are your hands doing? Stick to what you know Alex, leave your hands out of it. It's your legs that got you this far anyway, right??<br /><br />And last but not least, I found this photo of Alex getting painted up. How many of your guys out there wish you had that gig. Or even better, what if you were the intern that day?!?! Might as well die and call it a well-lived-life.<br /><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/AlexMorganPainting.jpg" alt="" /><br />Feel free to send us your thoughts on Ms. Morgan. show@worldfootballdaily.com<br /><br /><br /><em></em>
Rafa
2012-02-23T19:18:00Z
"We Talkin' Bout Practice"
Rafa
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/We-Talkin-Bout-Practice/-199488344787950160.html
2012-02-23T18:31:00Z
2012-02-23T18:31:00Z
I read this piece in Goal.com where a good friend of mine, Alex Labidou, reported that Major Indoor Soccer League's Rochester Lancers have offered Allen Iverson $20,000 a game to play in Goal for the club. <br /><br />The Lancers are banking on Iverson's natural skill and ability as an athlete. Although, as good as AI was with his hands, I just don't think he'd make it.<br /><br />Needless to say, I'd watch this all day long.<br /><br />Here's the article written by friend of the show and regular guest from Goal.com, Alex Labidou:<br /><br />
<p><strong>Indoor soccer team says Allen Iverson wouldn't have to practice if he agrees on unusual deal</strong></p>
<p><strong>To market Major Indoor Soccer League better, the Rochester Lancers reached out to the former NBA MVP and he could play goalkeeper for the squad as soon as this weekend. </strong></p>
<em><span id="divAdnetKeyword">Former NBA superstar Allen Iverson and the game of soccer aren't a pairing that most sports fans would expect. <br /><br />Yet, for $20,000 a game, the Rochester Lancers of the Major Indoor Soccer League are willing to gamble on just how well his athleticism will translate into the beautiful game. And no worries A.I., you won't have to practice if you agree to play. </span></em><br /><br /><em><span id="divAdnetKeyword">"If practice is not a part of the agreement, then we'll find a middle ground," Lancers Vice President Rich Randall cracked to Goal.com. "It is humorous and it always comes up with Allen Iverson." <br /><br />Randall is referring to Iverson's memorable postgame rant when he hilariously mocked his head coach for criticizing his unwillingness to train with his teammates. <br /><br />""We're sitting here, I'm supposed to be the franchise player, and we're in here talking about practice... not a game," Iverson told reporters 10 years ago, repeating the word "practice" <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bHJDRgVwcP8" target="_blank">over 20 times</a> for emphasis.<br /><br />Randall admits that the Lancers' interest in Iverson is mainly to help market his club and the MISL. At the height of Iverson's peak, only Michael Jordan was more popular as a <a id="itxthook0" class="itxtrst itxtrsta itxthook" style="font-weight: normal; font-size: 100%; text-decoration: underline; border-bottom: 0.075em solid black; padding-bottom: 1px; color: black; background-color: transparent;" rel="nofollow" href="http://www.goal.com/en-us/news/66/united-states/2012/02/22/2922615/indoor-soccer-team-says-allen-iverson-wouldnt-have-to"><span id="itxthook0w0" class="itxtrst itxtrstspan itxthookspan" style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% transparent; font-size: inherit; font-weight: inherit; color: black;">basketball</span></a> player. Iverson led the NBA in scoring four times and has career averages of 26.7 points and 6.2 assists per game. He will likely be a first ballot Hall of Famer when he officially retires. <br /><br />"I do think with his athletic talent and abilities, he wouldn't embarrass himself. It could be something really unique for our fans," Randall says. <br /><br />Iverson is no stranger to the spotlight and controversy. The 36-year-old has fallen out with numerous coaches and hasn't played professionally in almost two years. Various reports have come out saying that the former Sixers star spent all of his $150 million-plus fortune and owes several creditors money. <br /><br />Randall explained that the Lancers would be willing to potentially up their offer depending on the package that Iverson and his representatives would agree to. The two parties last spoke on Friday. <br /><br />Iverson would have top-class hotel accommodations for he and his family throughout the arrangement. With his poor financial situation dominating headlines, Randall believes that the Lancers' offer provides several positives for both parties. While he couldn't get into specifics, Randall hinted that there will be charitable causes attached to Iverson's deal.<br /><br />"We'd like to make this a well-rounded deal," Randall said. "The perfect scenario for both sides is to do something that breeds positive light on the sport and also brings a positive light to Iverson as well."</span></em><br /><br /><em><span id="divAdnetKeyword">If Iverson decides to join the Lancers, he would likely play in one regular-season match and sparingly during the club's playoff run depending on the agreed deal between both sides. The intention is for Iverson to serve as an honorary captain and raise attention to the team during the postseason. <br /><br />Randall doesn't expect Iverson to play significant minutes unless the Lancers clinch a playoff spot on Wednesday. Then the former NBA MVP could see some action on Sunday in a match that would have little meaning on the standings. <br /><br />Randall sees Iverson potentially as goalkeeper. <br /><br />"He could play a position where he doesn't have to use his feet much," he said. <br /><br />Lancers' ownership expects to hear back from Iverson's agent Leon Rose over the next day or so. Should he agree, there will surely be national attention towards Rochester, the Lancers and the MISL. If not, maybe Terrell Owens or Chad Ochocinco could be interested.</span></em><br /><br />Give us your thoughts on this story and write in with other cross over athlete's who may or may not have succeeded in football.<br /><br /><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/ochoKC.jpg" alt="" /><br /><em></em>
Rafa
2012-02-23T18:31:00Z
Liver n' Onions: Dalglish's dream delivers.
Nash Larson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Liver-n-Onions:-Dalglishs-dream-delivers./-404863338373134092.html
2012-02-21T04:19:00Z
2012-02-21T04:19:00Z
<p><span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Liverpool's lunch time kickoff against Manchester United a week a go </span></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">was always going to be a game worth talking about.The events leading up to it between Suarez and Evra, and the events that transpired during. Having taken a week to digest, asses and formulate thoughts on, I have decided to not comment on it. I could being as this is a Liverpool dedicated blog, but Liver n' Onions has decided to move on. Talking about it anymore will just continue to distract the footballing public from what really matters…the football. This was certainly the case in the game, where the Suarez, Evra storyline stole the show.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">This weekend the EPL was not in action as the FA cup took center stage once again. Liverpool took on Brighton & Hove Albion Sunday in the FA Cup 5th round, as they looked to continue their good form in the cup's this season. The match took place Anfield, for better or worse as the reds have yet to be defeated but have made it a habit of drawing matches. Taking into account how the Brighton side play under Manager Gus Poyet ,who on a side note publicly supported Suarez in the race accusations, could give Liverpool a run for their money. Brighton play a good brand of pass and move football, similar to Swansea City in the Premier League, but Liverpool's defensive solidity was backed to reign supreme. Brighton defeated Newcastle United to reach this level of the competition, a side who is challenging at the top of the Premier League: </span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Before the match I made some mock line-ups for the two teams. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Proposed line-ups for pre match:</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><em><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Reina(GK)</span></em></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><em><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Kelly, Carragher, Coates, Robinson</span></em></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><em><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Maxi, Spearing, Adam, Downing</span></em></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><em><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Suarez, Carroll</span></em></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><em> </em><br /></span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><em><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> Actual starters Henderson ( For Maxi) , Johnson ( For Kelly) , Sktel ( Coates), Enrique ( Robinson)</span></em></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><em> </em><br /></span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><em><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Brezovan(GK)</span></em></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span><em><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Calderon</span></em></span><em><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">, Greer, Dunk, El-Abd</span></em></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><em><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Bridcutt</span></em></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span><em><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Noone</span></em></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">, </span><em><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Forster-Caskey</span></em><span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">,</span></span><em><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> Barnes, Buckly,</span></em></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><em><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Mackail-Smith</span></em></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Vokes started up top, LuaLua on the wing and Navarro in the center forming a 4-2-31</span></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">The line-up spoke volumes about how Dalglish feels towards the cup. A line up that is for me stronger than the one put out against Manchester United last weekend. Brighton is certainly a lesser opposition compared to United, and against United you can't really blame Dalglish for setting up more defensive. This said, Liverpool did exactly that, play defensively. Throwing caution to the wind sometimes gives players confidence as the intent to get a win is shown, and this was seen against Brighton. With a strong line-up emerging from the tunnel we can see that Liverpool's targets this season have changed. Fourth spot looks to be lost, and the chance of winning the league, was never a realistic expectation. Making it to the quarters of the FA cup and to the final of the Carling Cup is certainly a statement, and a valid possibility of acquiring silverware.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Martin Skrtel started proceedings off on the right foot for the Reds as he headed a corner in for the first goal just 5 minutes into the first half. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></p>
<p class="separator"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><img style="float: right;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EMp35LuWNHE/T0MYRNLlMbI/AAAAAAAAAqE/7vtglgFbqjI/s320/suarez_2143777b.jpg" border="0" alt="" width="320" height="200" /></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Right from the off you could see something start to click up-top for Liverpool. This is because Suarez and Carroll both started on the pitch. Bought for the dynamic big-man, small-man combination, we all have been left wanting, as they rarely see game time together. In this game you can see that you need them both on the field on the same time. When you play Carroll you need Suarez, because it allows Carroll to lurk in the box, as Suarez will come a little deeper to get the ball, so Carroll doesn't have to. Carroll doesn't seem to manage all the tasks required when he play's up top on his own. He's not a complete striker, he's rather one dimensional, although he claims otherwise. He needs to be able to rampage into the box, and be physical. He needs it served him, but when he gets isolated he has to work too hard to get service, forcing him out of position. Suarez is the perfect tonic, as he will roam, drop deep, pick the ball up and connect with one-twos in and around the box. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">You could also see the importance that Gerrard plays in this delicate ecosystem. The accuracy, and vision in a pass, gives Liverpool the option to play it short with Suarez, or long to Carroll with deadly accuracy. Gerrard is the common denominator in this, and this cohesion has been missing through a variety of reasons, suspensions, injuries and such. We saw last night that it works, and well when all three are on the pitch at the same time.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">A shaky start for the Brighton side was remedied with a wonderful strike from Lualua in the 17th minute, penetrating Liverpool's….Uhmmm wall? A blistering grass cutter gave Reina no chance as it leveled terms.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Another goal from Liverpool exposed a lethargic looking keeper Brezovan, as he punched across into the air with bodies falling everywhere. Suarez had time to take the lose ball down out of the air and release a shot that rocketed back off the Brighton keeper into the air falling to Glen Johnson who headed it in to Brighton's Bridcutt, who on trying to clear but ricoched it into goal. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Brighton looked particularly vulnerable off crosses, and corners, and most of the promising moves for Liverpool came down Stewart Downing's side. Liverpool flooded the box when Downing and Adam got the ball, and a few crosses wen't close to connecting with the pony-tail of Carroll as he vied with defender El-Abd for room to breath.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> Let's face it Stewart Downing has been a sheer disappointment since his move from Aston Villa. Stats don't lie and the most glaring is his in the 2011/12 EPL season. He has played 24 goals, 0 goals, 0 assists ( that's right 0, not quite the ammunition for Andy Carroll) and he has registered 49 shots. I wish I could say well this is okay because he tracks back, "Puttin in a shift," but this is not the case. He is exposed when he plays a defensive role, a large part of his positions make-up is to help out his fullbacks, but Downing provides slim support. This is not to be forgotten, but with the </span><span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Downing and Carroll combo finally connecting against Brighton things should be looking up….hopefully. In the 57' min Downing cut a ball into the box and the left foot of Carroll took care of the rest making the game 3-1 and possibly the killing the competition. Unbridled joy spread across the face of of Dalglish as two of his, highly scrutinized, big money signings combined. </span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Killing the competition is exactly what this did as, but losing 3-1 away at Anfield is no embarrassment for the likes of Brighton. Neither the scoreline or the lack of embarrassment proved to be true as Brighton was hit with another sucker punch in the form of a second "Og." 71' minute it was Bridcutt once again scoring in his own own net as he tried to clear a Gerrard shot off the line. The the match commentator offered some consolation to the Brighton player saying "it's not often you come to Anfield and scores twice. Don't think he'd see the funny side though. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Losing a grip on reality, Brighton suffered another tragedy when just three minutes later a 3rd own goal went in. Poor control in the box lead to defender Dunk kneeing a cross into his own goal making it a 5-1 scoreline. If I can get a bit "punny" with it it was certainly a slam dunk of an own goal...oh that's bad.</span></p>
<p><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SIu8bFlOcm8/T0MXtFi_nYI/AAAAAAAAAp8/Q0kzrjiWoEs/s1600/Lewis-Dunk-Brighton-Liverpool.jpg"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SIu8bFlOcm8/T0MXtFi_nYI/AAAAAAAAAp8/Q0kzrjiWoEs/s1600/Lewis-Dunk-Brighton-Liverpool.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></span></a></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Polar opposites were Poyet and Dalglish on their respected benches. Everything going horribly wrong for Brighton, and all the hopes and dreams of Dalglish coming true as the 6th goal was a product of the Liverpool's highly priced, and anticipated strike duo combining. A cross found its way onto Carroll's head, who headed across goal to Suarez, finishing in front of a spineless and humiliated Brighton defense. Having just missed a penalty he makes it 6-1, and a smile reaching ear to ear beamed from the face of Dalglish.<br /><br /></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Liverpool emphatically reach the quarter finals of the FA Cup and will face against Stoke City. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Check out more at spotkickjournalism.blogspot.com</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></p>
Nash Larson
2012-02-21T04:19:00Z
Things That Make You Go Hmmm...
A.J. Nelson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Things-That-Make-You-Go-Hmmm.../777132791420633387.html
2012-02-20T21:55:00Z
2012-02-20T21:55:00Z
<p>What? Madrid doesn’t need to take any notes on how to win. They currently stand at the top of La Liga with 20 wins, 1 draw and 2 losses. They have 61 points, are ahead of Barcelona by 10 points, and are well poised to win the league (and have the potential to surpass 100 points on the season). Already this year they have become the most successful group stage team in Champions League history; and they currently have the Pichichi (goal scoring) leader on their team (with Cristiano Ronaldo) along with 2 of the other 5 top goal scorers in La Liga with Gonzalo Higuaín (4<sup>th</sup>) and Karim Benzema (5<sup>th</sup>). They have an excessively talented group of players led by a coach who carries a winning mentality along with the trophies to prove it. </p>
<p>So what could possibly be wrong? Anyone who follows football can give you the answer to that question, they can’t beat Barcelona. They should be able to. Madrid annihilated Osasuna 7-1, a team that beat Barcelona 3-2 the other week. They took down Sevilla 6-2 when Barcelona could only squeak out a nil-nil draw at home at the Camp Nou. <br /><br />So why can’t they beat this Barcelona team? They will have at least one more chance this season (and possible more depending on the Champions League) to allow the pundits to give their wild theories and point out their "clear" problems. There are people that believe if Real Madrid can’t beat Barcelona then Mourinho needs to be fired. That if they can’t beat them, the team should reassess their players. That if they can’t beat Barcelona all is lost for Real Madrid. </p>
<p>In the past 2 years, Real Madrid has only been able to earn 1 victory over Barcelona (and that took extra time on a neutral field for the Copa Del Rey title). Real Madrid has lost to Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup, the Champions League, La Liga and, this season, in the Copa Del Rey. But what is the problem? Real Madrid has had plenty of goal scoring opportunities in the majority of those games, yet the goals that they score so frequently against other teams fail to materialize. Their defense (that has allowed an average of less than one goal a game this season) allowed Barcelona to score 3 (the most any team has scored against them). One cannot sit here and say that Barcelona is not a good team. They are. But is Barcelona better than Real Madrid? Is Pep Guardiola better than José Mourinho? Or when it comes to El Clásico, is it simply all in their minds?</p>
Madridistas continue to be left scratching their heads and wondering about those things that make you go hmmmmm… So here is a thought - maybe Real Madrid’s footballers should have a talk with the basketball players. Kyle Singler, in particular, could impart some wisdom from his days at Duke with Coach “K”. Singler knows what it is like to regularly face an arch nemesis (North Carolina) and clearly he has learned how to defeat them. Perhaps he can share a secret or two and break the cycle…hmmm…
A.J. Nelson
2012-02-20T21:55:00Z
Gala onslaught earns Three Points
Aydin Reyhan
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Gala-onslaught-earns-Three-Points/-549574730255148847.html
2012-02-18T03:22:00Z
2012-02-18T03:22:00Z
<p>The game began brilliantly for Gala as Johan Elmander flicked the ball over the defender and almost had a clear shot at goal except for the defender to swoop in and bring the ball to safety. GS believed they had a reason for a penalty kick but there was no call from the referee.</p>
<p>Finally, Necati Ates sent Engin Baytar through down the right hand side who had no pressure. He took his time by cutting back and patiently waited for Necati to sprint into the box and saw his cross headed in by the 32 year old at the 28<sup>th</sup> minute who had then scored his second goal in three games. 1-0 Galatasaray.</p>
<p>Baytar saw his rocket blast off the cross bar midway through the second half.</p>
<p>Mersin scored an unlikely equalizer in the 76<sup>th</sup> minute even after Gala’s domination. However, the scoring wasn’t even close to over. 1-1.</p>
<p>Just four minutes later, Ates was brought down in the box. Selcuk Inan stepped up to the spot and hammered the pk into the top left corner. 2-1 Galatasaray.</p>
<p>At the 90<sup>th</sup> minute, Emre Colak led a Gala counter attack towards Mersin’s goal and saw his shot parried away by former Besiktas keeper Hakan Arikan. Ates controlled the rebound and shot the ball into the air but Arikan miraculously slapped it away. With the defense watching, Necati controlled the ball again and as Arikan approached, he calmly lobbed it in. 3-1 Galatasaray.</p>
<p>Gala were not finished attacking yet as this time right back Sabri Sarioglu sprinted down the right flank and sent the ball over to Necati right in front of goal and even though he attempted to slide tackle the ball into the empty net, the defender jumped in his way and cleared the danger.</p>
<p>The game would end 3-1 to the Istanbul side’s favor, extending their lead to nine points. The return of Ivory Coast international, Emmanuel Eboue certainly brought some life back into the team. He was solid in his position at right mid and Gala were able to create a lot from that side of the field.</p>
<p>Next week, Galatasaray will play host to rivals Besiktas. The first time around the two sides drew a blank at Besiktas’s Fiyapi Inonu Stadium. At Galatasaray’s Turk Telekom Arena, the home side will be slightly favored but both sides will have a lot to prove. Bragging rights and three points are at stake. Stay tuned and enjoy. </p>
Aydin Reyhan
2012-02-18T03:22:00Z
La Liga Gameweek 22 (February 11-13)
Joseph Zucker
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/La-Liga-Gameweek-22-February-11-13/686306002228704693.html
2012-02-14T04:03:00Z
2012-02-14T04:03:00Z
<strong>1. Barca on the back burner</strong><br />Any discussion of Gameweek 22 must begin with Barcelona’s loss against Osasuna on Saturday. It was shocking enough for the Catalans to lose, but the way they did was very surprising. Osasuna didn’t back down whatsoever and outplayed Barcelona for much of the game. Gerard Piqué in particular had a game to forget. Barcelona supporters might argue that their club should have earned a draw after Alexis Sánchez’s goal. However, it did look as if the linesman got the call right as Sergi Roberto appeared to have headed the ball on to Sánchez. It’s only Barcelona’s second loss of the season, but their away form has really done them in this year. They’ve only picked up 17 out of a possible 33 points outside the Nou Camp.<br /><br />This of course opens the door for Real Madrid to finally knock off their hated rivals. Los Blancos haven’t won La Liga since 2007-08, which isn’t long for most clubs, but in Madrid it seems so long ago Francisco Franco was in charge. Madrid is now 10 points clear at the top of the table. Even a loss to Barcelona won’t do much damage to Real Madrid’s title charge. Even Ronaldo looks to be getting the better of his Barca counterpart, Lionel Messi. Ronaldo notched another hat trick this week, his sixth of the season. With an almost certain league title to his 2012 resume, a strong showing in the 2012 Euros could mean a Ballon d’Or for Ronaldo and supplanting Messi as the best player on the planet.<br /><br /><strong>2. Athletic Bilbao suffers more injury time despair</strong><br />For the second week in a row, Athletic Bilbao let in an injury time goal. Give them the three points they have dropped over the last two weeks and they would be sitting in fourth place right now. It’s definitely not time to panic in Bilbao, but sooner or later the teams ahead of them are going to start winning matches again. It’s hard not to argue that the sending off of Javi Martínez didn’t really affect them in this week’s match. With the man advantage, Real Betis really attacked Bilbao and the winning goal seemed to coming sooner or later. It’s going to be interesting to see how they handle their Europa League match against Lokomotiv Moscow on Thursday. Bilbao would love to win a European league, but they have a big match with Málaga three days later. Bielsa played many of his starters in a Copa del Rey fixture against Mirandes last Tuesday and it really seemed to affect the players against Betis on Saturday as they seemed to have tired out as the match worn on.<br /><br />This is the second week in a row that Bilbao had a golden opportunity to claim a Champions League spot and not look back. Qualifying for the top league in Europe could go a long way in helping to keep players like Martínez and Fernando Llorente with the club. I really like what Marcelo Bielsa is doing with Athletic Bilbao and it would be very nice to see them have a shot at the highest level.<br /><br /><strong>3. Sevilla continues free fall</strong><br />New manager Michel could do nothing to help Sevilla as they lost to Real Sociedad, 2-0, on Monday. The club is now winless in its last eight matches and has only won twice in their last 14 matches. This is a club that finished in fifth place last year, four points away from Champions League qualification. Now they sit three points away from relegation. It was only Michael’s first game in charge of Sevilla, so it’s unclear whether or not the club will get the patented new manager bump.<br /><br />There’s obviously some talent still at Sevilla and plenty of time for Michel to right the ship. With one or two results, they could turn their entire season around. The middle of the table is packed pretty tight so a couple of wins could put them right back into the Champions League hunt. They have Osasuna on Saturday, which is a game Sevilla can take all three points from. Then the following Sunday, they face Valencia at the Estadio Mestalla. It will be tough to get a good result, but if they do, it could be the spark Sevilla so dearly needs to get going.<br /><br /><strong>4. The race for fourth still wide open</strong><br />Another week and yet more failed opportunities for any club to really capitalize the results around them and overtake Levante for fourth place. Every week it seems like Levante will finally lose their grip on the spot. They have played well all year, but realistically, they don’t look like they can hold off the rest of the season. The big winners of the week were Málaga and Osasuna. With their wins, they jumped into the seventh and eighth spots, respectively. Each are only a point off fourth. The biggest loser has to be Espanyol. Following last weekend’s dramatic draw with Athletic Bilbao, they had a golden opportunity to go three points clear of Levante, but they lost to Real Zaragoza, who reside at the bottom of the table and are surely a lock for relegation.<br /><br />For all the talk of how Madrid and Barcelona dominate the league, this race for fourth is incredibly interesting. For the record, I don’t see anyone really challenging Valencia for third since 17th-place Granada is seven points off Levante in fourth, and eight points separate Levante and Valencia. There are quite a few storylines to follow with the clubs between fourth and ninth. No one would have possibly expected either Levante or Espanyol to be anywhere near the Champions League before the season, so it would be quite a welcome surprise to either of them qualify. For Málaga, failure to qualify would be a step back for the project that’s in place. If they can qualify, the added income for Europe could ease them a little closer to become a serious challenger for Madrid or Barcelona. I had previously mentioned what qualification could do for Bilbao. And for Atlético Madrid, it would be a significant turnaround from the state the club was in under Gregorio Manzano. Earlier in the season, it would have been almost unthinkable for Atleti to even sniff fourth place.
Joseph Zucker
2012-02-14T04:03:00Z
Rangers Heading for Administration
Sandy Thin
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Rangers-Heading-for-Administration/-861150387413889282.html
2012-02-13T16:33:00Z
2012-02-13T16:33:00Z
<p>This could be the week which has made Celtic’s season. On Sunday, Rangers were knocked out the Scottish Cup by Dundee Utd while Celtic progressed past Caley Thistle, leaving the path all but clear to Hampden. On Wednesday, the Bhoys travels to Edinburgh saw them come away with a 4-0 thrashing over Hearts in the league. Thursday uncovered some possible financial road blocks to the possibility of a Rangers takeover from former owner Alastair Johnston. And on Sunday, Celtic withstood late pressure from Inverness, along with some very poor refereeing decisions to win the game 1-0, extending their winning streak to 14 in the league.</p>
<p>The midweek win for Celtic at Hearts was certainly a morale booster. For any club the fans and atmosphere at Tynecastle can be intimidating and so to win, and to win in the manner they did will give both Celtic fans, players and staff alike a confidence going into the final few months of the season.</p>
<p>It was a brilliant match, full of real end-to-end football and while Celtic played superbly, Hearts were unlucky not to have a goal to their name by the end of the ninety minutes. Scott Brown put in a true captain’s performance, playing a part in three of the four Celtic goals, continuing his incredible run of form for the Glasgow club and scoring his first goal against Hearts since he joined Celtic from Hibs in 2007.</p>
<p> Kenyan midfielder, Victor Wanyama, who won the January SPL Player of the Month award, scored a fantastic goal, again asserting his place in the first team. He has proved to be an excellent replacement for Beram Kayal, who is still out of action through an ankle injury. It will be interesting to see how easily the Israeli central midfielder will find his place in the Starting 11again, considering the blistering form of those currently playing in his absence.</p>
<p>And as I write this the breaking story has come up the BBC Sport website that Rangers are going down the route of administration. My immediate thoughts, even (or especially) as a Celtic fan are that it is a very sad, or even worrying, sight to see. It is hard for a league to operate when only two teams have a hope of winning each year, when, as you assume they will, Celtic begin winning every trophy every season, the interest and support for the SPL will diminish completely.</p>
<p>This could mean that Celtic seek refuge in the English league system, but what then? We cannot hope to compete with the teams in the upper half of the Premier League, barely even with many of the Championship teams, and without any possibility of European football, and with fans having lost interest in the Scottish game altogether, Celtic too would be at serious risk of financial trouble.</p>
<p>And as well over half of the followers of Scottish football worldwide support either Celtic or Rangers, what will this move mean for the rest of the teams in the league. Yes, it is possible that fans may turn to other local Scottish clubs, and the loss of one of the “two giants” will mean that all the smaller clubs will have greater opportunities in cup competitions. But this isn’t really what any fans of Scottish football want. Despite Celtic’s chief executive, Peter Lawwell’s, insistence that “we don’t need Rangers”, we absolutely do, as a league without them will simply not function properly. Sports without competitiveness are nothing, they have no value.</p>
<p>As administration will mean a ten-point deduction for Rangers, this year’s title race is all but ended, as only a miracle will overturn an eleven-point deficit in the league. Although in the SPL, with two old firms remaining, you can never say never. Despite the point deduction, Rangers will remain in second place in the league, evidence of the extent to which the SPL is a two-team league, if any were needed.</p>
<p>Apologies for the disjointedness of the article (due to breaking news halfway through its writing).</p>
Sandy Thin
2012-02-13T16:33:00Z
Premier League Recap (February 11-12)
Adam Johnson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Premier-League-Recap-February-11-12/47905525268580971.html
2012-02-13T06:33:00Z
2012-02-13T06:33:00Z
<p>There were plenty of battles at both ends of the table this weekend and with tax evasion trials, a manger resigning, and racism rows, there was no shortage of storylines in England this week. Without further ado…</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Manchester United 2-1 Liverpool</span></p>
<p>United came into this match with a chance to go to the top of the table with a win while Liverpool needed to get all three points to stay firmly in the hunt for 4<sup>th</sup> place. However, this was not the biggest story in the lead up to kickoff. Luis Suarez was starting in his first Premier League match since his ban for racially abusing Patrice Evra in their meeting at Anfield in the fall. Of course Suarez’s opponent, and United captain, was one Patrice Evra. The controversy started when Suarez wouldn’t make eye contact or shake Evra’s hand before the match and Rio Ferdinand responded by not shaking Suarez’s hand later down the line. It was a poor gesture from Suarez and he was rightfully booed every time he touched the ball. Neither side created tons of chances in the first half, but there was more drama in the tunnel heading into the break when stewards had to break up a little skirmish between the two sides. Wayne Rooney then took over. He scored twice in four minutes to give United a commanding lead. Luis Suarez got his goal, unfortunately, but even a neutral should feel good for the revenge Evra got on the Uruguayan.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Blackburn 3-2 QPR</span></p>
<p>Two teams around the foot of the table met at Ewood Park and a good match broke out. Yakubu scored the opener in the 15<sup>th</sup> minute for the lead, then Steven Nzonzi doubled, then David Hoilett’s deflected shot tripled that lead. QPR, well specifically Jamie Mackie, fought back with two good goals but it was all for naught.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Bolton 1-2 Wigan</span></p>
<p>This bottom of the table clash went to Wigan. Gary Caldwell got the first but Mark Davies tied it with a nice finish. James McArthur eventually got the winner for Wigan and a huge three points.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Everton 2-0 Chelsea</span></p>
<p>Another lackluster performance from Chelsea this weekend led to yet another three points dropped. You have to credit Everton in this match, however. They got up early with a Steven Peinaar goal and stayed on top all the way through. The Merseyside Blues looked better than their London counterparts all evening and added a second when Landon Donovan played in Denis Stracqualursi who finished past a struggling and unconfident looking, Petr Cech. Andre Villas-Boas’ days may be numbered.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Fulham 2-1 Stoke</span></p>
<p>Fulham leapfrogged Stoke in the table with this win over the Potters. New boy, Pavel Pogrebnyak got the first and a Thomas Sorensen own goal, thanks to a Clint Dempsey rocket, were the two goals that canceled out Ryan Shawcross’ late consolation. Fulham is really on a nice run at the moment.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Sunderland 1-2 Arsenal</span></p>
<p>The in form Sunderland met last week’s big scorers when Arsenal traveled north to the Stadium of Light. The match sat at 0-0 at haltime but James McClean changed that with a tidy finish. Arsenal responded with an Aaron Ramsey goal to level and then it was Thierry Henry who came on for the Ox and gave the fans a winner to remember.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Swansea 2-3 Norwich</span></p>
<p>Danny Graham gave Swansea the lead in this meeting of surprisingly good, promoted sides. Grant Holt tied on a freakish goal in the second half and Anthony Pilkington’s deflected shot then gave the Canaries the lead. Holt and Graham each added another to make it 3-2 but this thriller belonged to the away side. You have to hand it to both managers for the way they have managed their respective clubs.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Tottenham 5-0 Newcastle</span></p>
<p>The question coming in was how would Spurs respond with Harry Redknapp’s crazy week, and well they responded with quite a performance. 4-0 up at halftime thanks to Benoit Assou-Ekoto, two from Luis Saha, and one from Niko Kranjcar. Emmanuel Adebayor played a part in nearly every one of the goals and got his own in the second half to make it 5-0. This team seems to play at another speed than their opponents, and when they combine that speed with quality finishing, they are nearly unbeatable. </p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Wolves 1-5 West Brom</span></p>
<p>This derby match clearly belonged to the away side in a match that they had to play well in. Wolves were awful defensively and let in five. Peter Odemwingie gave West Brom the lead but Steven Fletcher scored a brilliant goal to level before halftime. It was all West Brom after that with Odemwingie scoring two more for a hat trick and Jonas Olsson and Keith Andrews each getting one. This was a wild match that left the home fans booing and the away fans singing.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Aston Villa 0-1 Manchester City</span></p>
<p>This is the second week in a row that Man City got a grind it out win. This time it was Joleon Lescott who headed home a corner as the lone goal but City deserved the three points.</p>
<p>After a wild week and pretty eventful weekend, it is Tottenham that has come up trumps. Their 5-0 win over Newcastle earns them team of the week but player of the week comes from another match. Wayne Rooney wins player of the week for his captain-like performance. When he is in the mood he is a joy to watch. </p>
Adam Johnson
2012-02-13T06:33:00Z
Everton 2-0 Chelsea: Pienaar Stars as Everton Topple Chelsea
James W. Hollis
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Everton-2-0-Chelsea:-Pienaar-Stars-as-Everton-Topple-Chelsea/232510652544714115.html
2012-02-12T22:44:00Z
2012-02-12T22:44:00Z
<p>The scoring opened surprisingly early for Everton, as Pienaar pounced on lazy throw-in from Jose Bosingwa, heading it to Tim Cahill. Frank Lampard blocked Cahill’s attempted pass, which fell to Pienaar, who chested the ball down and fired past Petr Cech into the roof of the net.</p>
<p>Since Saturday was not the first time that Everton have scored an early goal against Chelsea, Everton fans prepared for the inevitable Chelsea revival. Strangely, though, Chelsea’s revival never really materialized.</p>
<p>Chelsea did have some good moments in the first half, mainly involving Chelsea’s resident Hobbit (Juan Mata). Mata set up Daniel Sturridge for a blast that went just over Tim Howard’s crossbar and also played a fine pass to Frank Lampard at the edge of the box that Lampard fired wide of the post. </p>
<p>On the defensive end, Chelsea invited pressure by giving balls away in their half, creating chances for Landon Donovan and Denis Stracqualursi. Everton’s plan on Saturday was to pressure a makeshift Chelsea defense into making mistakes and the Chelsea defense obliged over and over again.</p>
<p>The second half continued in the same vein. The Chelsea team looked devoid of ideas going forward and their body language showed a team that did not fancy a dogfight against a determined opponent. Everton were comfortable and a second goal always looked likely. </p>
<p>That goal came in the 71st minute when Phil Neville crushed Ashley Cole at the halfway line. The ball came to Landon Donovan, who charged at the Chelsea defense, eventually releasing Denis Stracqualursi with a perfectly weighted pass. Big Denis did the rest, beating Cech’s outstretched hand to put Everton two to the good.</p>
<p><strong>Talking Points:</strong></p>
<p><strong>Steven Pienaar’s Return: </strong>Steven has fit back into the Everton team seamlessly. Leon Osman played the Pienaar role well at the end of last season but we’ve struggled to find anyone to fill his creative role this season. Pienaar was everywhere on Saturday. His presence gave us so many more options in the midfield. He opened up the midfield for Fellaini and Gibson, kept Tim Cahill from having to dribble and pass, freed Landon Donovan to go at Ashley Cole and, together with Leighton Baines, sparked a rout down the Chelsea right against part-time defender Jose Bosingwa. What a day for Steven Pienaar, there’s no way he’s going back to Spurs. <strong> </strong></p>
<p><strong>Hard-nosed Play: </strong>Like many of the classic Everton performances under David Moyes, the defeat of Chelsea at Goodison was built on a foundation of physicality and defensive organization. Chelsea wanted to play free-flowing football and, much like Manchester City, did not like being closed-down and out-muscled. Phil Neville capped off the dominating performance with an old-fashioned challenge on Ashley Cole to set up the second goal, extending Cole’s streak of going off injured against Landon Donovan at Goodison Park to two matches.</p>
<p><strong>No Passengers:</strong> If you think about Saturday’s performance, it’s hard to find a single Everton player that did not have a strong performance. Even the much-maligned Phil Neville picked up his game in the second half (and destroyed Ashley Cole). This is further evidence that David Moyes performed magic at the end of January. He got rid of two of our worst underperformers and brought in at least three players that could contribute immediately. Moyes’ magic paid dividends again on Saturday.</p>
<p><strong>Chelsea’s Team is Expensive, but...: </strong>That was the worst performance I’ve ever seen from a Chelsea team. They gave the ball away, they lacked energy and generally looked like they would rather be anywhere else. Their team was the picture of frustration. Getting to watch an expensively assembled team combust at Goodison like Chelsea did on Saturday is one of my favorite things about being an Evertonian. Whether it was Fernando Torres whinging at the referee at half time (apparently he was angry about being a waste of money), Raul Meireles following Mike Jones around complaining about his barber, or Branislav Ivanovich charging like a bull after Landon Donovan, Chelsea’s performance on Saturday was another example of the old adage ‘money don’t buy class.’</p>
<p><strong>Man of the Match: </strong> Steven Pienaar, obviously. Stunning dreadlocks.</p>
<p>Next up for Everton is Blackpool in the FA Cup at Goodison Park on Saturday. It should be the perfect occasion for the home debut of Nikica Jelavic if he can sort his abdominal strain in time. As you will recall from their sojourn to Goodison last year in the league, Blackpool doesn’t really play defense. Should be entertaining.</p>
<p>Follow, Follow, Follow me on twitter: @jwhollis</p>
James W. Hollis
2012-02-12T22:44:00Z
Galatasaray Continue Winning Ways
Aydin Reyhan
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Galatasaray-Continue-Winning-Ways/667792518276146549.html
2012-02-12T19:37:00Z
2012-02-12T19:37:00Z
<p>Chances were beckoning back and forth with visitors Kayserispor enjoying most of them. The home side finally found the break through to take the lead.</p>
<p>Gala’s transfer target, Amrabaat, played very dangerously against the league leaders with slick through balls and near goal scoring opportunities. Keeper Fernando Muslera stood his ground well to keep the ball out of his goal.</p>
<p>The defensive weakness in the side was surprisingly former Czech Republican international, Thomas Ujfalusi. Whether he sent a poor pass or simply slipped, 2-3 of the first half chances for the visitors were due to his errors.</p>
<p>The player who assisted Melo’s goal, Riera, was surprisingly chosen to start at left back. He is known as a left winger to create chances for his team mates or occasionally score a goal. However, Gala coach, Fatih Terim, chose to test out the Spanish international at a new position. When questioned about why he took that risk, he replied, “Hakan Unsal used to be a left winger when he first started playing for me here at Gala. I then switched him to left back.”</p>
<p>Riera played fairly well in that position being that not too many chances were created from his side of the field. Running up from the left-back position to join the attack benefitted him as his cross assisted the only goal of the game. He already knows how to play winger, Terim is helping him to improve his game by placing him at a different part of the field.</p>
<p>Kayseri could have easily scored on more than one occasion but the Gala did deservedly gain all three points. They currently sit atop the league in front by a comfortable margin of six after arch-rivals Fenerbahce failed to grab any points at Karabukspor where they fell 2-1.</p>
<p>Galatasaray will next play away at Mersin Idmanyurdu on Friday and will look to increase their lead to nine points. </p>
Aydin Reyhan
2012-02-12T19:37:00Z
Galatasaray Roar with Return of Necati Ates
Aydin Reyhan
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Galatasaray-Roar-with-Return-of-Necati-Ates/679589001258076770.html
2012-02-10T20:54:00Z
2012-02-10T20:54:00Z
After five years away from his beloved red and yellow jersey, he was finally allowed to make his 100<sup>th</sup> appearance for the historical club. Not only did he easily re-adapt to the GS style of play, he made his mark on the game.
<p>After going down early in the second half at the 50<sup>th</sup> minute, Ates calmly slotted the ball past the keeper into the back of the net to equalize just three minutes later. Johan Elmander added the finishing touch at the 66<sup>th</sup> to cement the victory at 2-1 to grab all three points.</p>
<p>Besides scoring, Necati’s smart play on the ball, field movement, and passing ability to his team mates impressed head coach Fatih Terim.</p>
<p>“Scoring in that situation is not easy”, Terim began saying. “This is why we brought Necati back.”</p>
<p>At the age of 32, Ates looks as if he can play for the next five years with ease. However, Gaziantep was just one game. He is stepping in to take the place of Milan Baros who is facing disciplinary measures with the league after issues with the referee during the home game against Antalyaspor.</p>
<p>The shoes Ates has to fill are quite large, but after his performance at Gaziantep, belief and hopes are high for the Turkish international. </p>
Aydin Reyhan
2012-02-10T20:54:00Z
Besiktas hit by Hilbert blow
Will
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Besiktas-hit-by-Hilbert-blow/888166912333142935.html
2012-02-09T13:39:00Z
2012-02-09T13:39:00Z
The German sustained a hamstring injury in Besiktas' 1-0 Super Lig defeat at the hands of newly promoted Mersin Idman Yurdu earlier this month, with scans confirming the worst and revealing a tear. The eight-week recovery period now means the Turkish side will have to go into their vital games against Braga with one of their most in-form players. Fans of <a href="http://betting.betfair.com/football/">Betfair.com</a> should remember this.<br /><br />The former Stuttgart star has been an ever-present in Besiktas' Europa League campaign so far this season and the Turks will miss his commanding presence in the centre of the park against Braga. <br /><br />It could get worse for Besiktas if left-back Ismail Koybasi fails to shake off the groin problem that has cast doubts over the Turkish international's availability for the first-leg in Portugal. The 22-year old picked up the injury during the Mersin Idman Yurdu defeat and will face a race against time to recover for the second-leg tie later this month and anyone looking at the <a href="http://betting.betfair.com/football/uefa-cup/">Betfair Europa League betting</a> should bear this in mind.<br /><br />The Portuguese club were beaten finalists in last season's competition and will be desperately to hoping to go one better this time around. Braga will certainly know they will have their work cut out when they take on the Turkish giants, who reached the knockout stages after finishing top of a tough looking Group E. <br /><br />Both teams have produced decent, if not title-challenging, first halves to their respective domestic campaigns and this clash will be one that won't have a clear favourite. As ever, both teams will be looking to take advantage of their home ties, and it could well come down to which side manages to grab that all-important away goal. <br />
Will
2012-02-09T13:39:00Z
Liver n' Onions: Cat's Game
Nash Larson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Liver-n-Onions:-Cats-Game/614809752619712320.html
2012-02-08T00:02:00Z
2012-02-08T00:02:00Z
The successes of Liverpool football club in the last couple of weeks has breathed a new wind into the sails of the fans, giving hope of silverware and a possible place in the Champions League next season. <br />
<div style="font: 12px Helvetica; margin: 0px;">On a day that Liverpool were held to another draw at home, and I say " Held," because they deserved a win based on play, I will touch upon a few successful weeks for the red side of the Mersey. The reds' have reached their first Carling Cup final since 1996, defeating Manchester "Moneybags" City to progress to Wembley. The catalyst of this recent consummation is one Craig Bellamy, who I would argue has been one of the most on form players in the all of the English competitions, EPL, Carling Cup and FA Cup. Bellamy was a brow raising signing not unlike Thierry Henry and Paul Scholes returning their old sides. Such furrowed brows have since subsided as he in the absence of Luis Suarez through suspension has earned his stripes and has been the driving force for Liverpool in attack. He defeated old employers City, to reach the Carling Cup Final on the 26th February, in which they will meet Welsh side Cardiff City- another former employer of Bellamy. This is a game the reds should feel they could win, and they should. The Carling Cup was not necessarily the goal that Dalglish targeted this season, as grabbing the fourth spot and a Champions League place next season was surely objective number one. Adding some silverware to the trophy cabinet would be a snip, considering the season thus far. The Calrling Cup is nothing to shrug at considering it's the best we may get as the all elusive fourth spot looks a mammoth undertaking. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-50TXJJ2Tf9Q/TzCdNf2k1cI/AAAAAAAAApQ/7aTNBrAXqh4/s1600/Craig_Bellamy_2006917c-1.jpg"><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-50TXJJ2Tf9Q/TzCdNf2k1cI/AAAAAAAAApQ/7aTNBrAXqh4/s320/Craig_Bellamy_2006917c-1.jpg" border="0" alt="" width="320" height="199" /></a></div>
<div style="font: 12px Helvetica; margin: 0px;">If Liverpool nab the Carling Cup in late February, should people consider this season a failure? Missed opportunities have hurt Liverpool and they continue to consistently drop points in the League to weaker sides, but with all the money spent on talent in the summer, does winning a competition such as the Carling Cup justify the money spent? </div>
<div style="font: 12px Helvetica; margin: 0px;">I say yeas, and this is how I see it. Once the cream of the crop In English football Liverpool have dropped from those heights, due to management, signings and form over a space of time. Yet the expectations still remain high from when they dominated the League. Not being the the club that it used to be fans, and spectators must not necessarily lower expectations, but they should evolve. Reaching the Carling Cup Final by defeating Manchester City, and the fourth round of the FA Cup through defeating Manchester United is just the speed that Liverpool should be striving for. Having spent chunks of cash on two strikers I see the reason for disappointment over performances, as this splashed cash has increased expectations. But in comparison to Manchester City, the cost to get this success pales in comparison, yet Liverpool just knocked them out of a tournament to reach the final.</div>
<div style="font: 12px Helvetica; margin: 0px;">This gel is setting or it has been the last few weeks as Bellamy, Henderson, Kuyt, and even Andy Carroll have created some cohesion amongst each other. This cohesion was necessary as Liverpool faced Tottenham Monday at Anfield. Their home stadium has been anything but a fortress this season yet with blossoming form of late, aided by Luis Suarez and Steven Gerrards' return to the squad, a sense of confidence was set upon me. Suarez did not start as Bellamy, Carroll and Kuyt have performed well together, but he did come on later in the match and looked a tad rusty.</div>
<div style="font: 12px Helvetica; margin: 0px;">Liverpool looked to capitalize on the absence of the influential Raphael van der Vaart, starting with theoretically three forwards up top. Less of a thereat from Tottenham going forward made it possible for Gerrard in the center to push up behind Carroll who was spear-heading the attack. Unfortunately having Bellamy and Kuyt on the wings, they looked to come into the middle too often making Liverpool's shape extremely narrow at times. Glen Johnson playing on the left due to an Injury sustained by Jose Enrique, got forward well and produced a great save from keeper Brad Friedel on the stroke of half time.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PbZPfoay5Tk/TzCc0YBCE3I/AAAAAAAAApI/FzV-65WMMIc/s1600/cat-at-anfield.jpg"><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PbZPfoay5Tk/TzCc0YBCE3I/AAAAAAAAApI/FzV-65WMMIc/s1600/cat-at-anfield.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a></div>
<div style="font: 12px Helvetica; margin: 0px;">The game was not without incident as it ebbed and flowed towards its finale, still without a break in the deadlock. Though the score was as it started, the most interesting point was not the cat that ran out onto the field, stopping play for some minutes, it was the considerable determination the players showed in contest. Similar to a cat Tottenham remained on their feet even after intense pressure from the Liverpool attack. Just like in the game against Wolves Andy Carroll held up play decently, and his touch looked less like he had a wrecking ball as a foot. Suarez walked onto the pitch in the second half to a fanfare of support, only to get booked strait off landing a kick strait into Scotty Parkers' stomach. Manchester United's striker Wayne Rooney offered his opinions via Twitter, saying that the Uruguayan should have been sent off. He's just one of those guys Suarez who just can't avoid controversy to save his life. I was watching and I saw no intent in the kick and whether it was malicious or not, only he would know. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eJf0BuxfYpI/TzCcrj628tI/AAAAAAAAApA/0DS-NBDVXRY/s1600/suarezparker.jpg"><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eJf0BuxfYpI/TzCcrj628tI/AAAAAAAAApA/0DS-NBDVXRY/s320/suarezparker.jpg" border="0" alt="" width="320" height="230" /></a></div>
<div style="font: 12px Helvetica; margin: 0px;">The pace was frenetic, with full blooded tackles flying in left and right yet when it came to chances- production was slim. Gerrard looked in good form, and taking into account the involuntary rest due to an injury ridden season, you might just see him return to full fitness and form at Liverpool sit in seventh, 4 points behind Chelsea in fourth place.</div>
<div style="font: 12px Helvetica; margin: 0px;">Liverpool face Manchester United at Old Trafford this weekend and having defeated City and the team in question a week or two ago, they will be looking to repeat the coup. It would be a bit of a Coup d' Etat against the city of Manchester if Liverpool where to top them again, away from home. If you thought that the atmosphere was roaring in the Chelsea vs. Manchester United game at the weekend, wait until this game takes place. It couldn't come at a more convenient time for a controversy as Suarez will be available, and may possibly start, against Patrice Evra and United. I would expect tempers to be docile on the side of Suarez, but I wouldn't be surprised if Evra refuses to shake his hand in the pre-match pleasantries.</div>
<div style="font: 12px Helvetica; margin: 0px;">Stay tuned for the post match thoughts at spotkickjournalism.blogspot.com</div>
Nash Larson
2012-02-08T00:02:00Z
Premier League Recap (February 4-6)
Adam Johnson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Premier-League-Recap-February-4-6/-940626502422591685.html
2012-02-06T22:26:00Z
2012-02-06T22:26:00Z
<p>Plenty to report in this week’s round of matches so why waste any time…</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Arsenal 7-1 Blackburn</span></p>
<p>The early match on Saturday provided some fireworks at the Emirates. Robin van Persie gave the Gunners the lead early on, but Morten Gamst Pedersen leveled for Blackburn with a brilliant free kick. From that point forward, it was all Arsenal. Their second goal was a fantastic team goal that RVP tapped in. The third came after flamboyant hold up play from van Persie, who then played in Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain for the youngster’s first Premier League goal. The last four goals came from Mikel Arteta, another from the Ox, RVP’s third, and of course, Thierry Henry.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Norwich 2-0 Bolton</span></p>
<p>Andrew Surman and Anthony Pilkington second half goals gave the Canaries all three points over the previously improving Bolton.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">QPR 1-2 Wolves</span></p>
<p>New signing, Bobby Zamora got the opener in the 16<sup>th</sup> minute but it would get tougher before the half for QPR, because Djibril Cisse was sent off for putting his hand to the throat of Wolves’, Roger Johnson. Matt Jarvis would tie it early in the second half before Kevin Doyle got Wolves second. Doyle’s goal would prove to be the winner in a huge victory for the away side.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Stoke 0-1 Sunderland</span></p>
<p>The Black Cats are looking quite good at the moment. Their recent win, at the always-tough Brittania Stadium, validates their great form since Martin O’Neill took over. Robert Huth was controversially sent off in the first half and Sunderland took advantage in the second. James McClean scored the lone goal of the match to take all three points.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">West Brom 1-2 Swansea</span></p>
<p>Brendan Rodger’s and his Swansea side got it done again, this time on the road. The new Premier League darlings are in fine form right now and even had to come back from a Marc-Antoine Fortune goal. In just five minutes the Swans swung the match, first through <a href="http://soccernet.espn.go.com/player/_/id/121910/gylfi-sigurdsson">Gylfi Sigurdsson</a>, then Danny Graham. That lead would hold up for a nice away win.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Wigan 1-1 Everton</span></p>
<p>After 75 minutes 0-0 looked inevitable, the match would end up finishing at 1-1, however. Wigan’s goal went down as a Phil Neville own goal but this one was on Tim Howard. The shot deflected off Neville and took a strange bounce before spinning off the turf and rolling in. Luckily for Everton, though, Victor Anichebe came on and got the equalizer with a strong header. A draw with the last place team, after just beating the first place team, has to be disappointing for Everton.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Manchester City 3-0 Fulham</span></p>
<p>This grind it out win from City came at a time when they needed to be reminded that they could still get that type of result. The loss last time out to Everton should’ve been a shock to the system and Sergio Aguero and co. responded with a comfortable 3-0 win at home. A penalty converted by Aguero, a Chris Baird own goal made by Adam Johnson, and a Edin Dzeko tap in got City the three points.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Newcastle 2-1 Aston Villa</span></p>
<p>Villa has improved over the last few games and actually looked like they might get something at St. James’ Park when Robbie Keane equalized Demba Ba’s strike. Papiss Demba Cisse, Newcastle’s newest signing, would have something to say, though. He scored the winner on his debut after coming on early for Leon Best. The Champions League is not too far out of the question for Newcastle.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Chelsea 3-3 Manchester United</span></p>
<p>This may have just been the match of the season. United came out firing and had a couple of penalty claims early on but Chelsea settled in and actually went ahead when Daniel Sturridge’s great run led to a United own goal and a Chelsea lead at halftime. Then the match really took off. Just 24 seconds into the second half, Fernando Torres played a brilliant cross over the United backline for Juan Mata to smash home on the volley. Another few minutes elapsed before the two goal lead became three for the Blues. David Luiz went unmarked in the box and headed home the Mata free kick. Against any other team, the 3-0 lead would be enough, but the Red Devils always fight back. It would be 3-2 just twenty minutes later on two Wayne Rooney penalties. Torres was then scared to shoot on what could’ve been the winner and the Blues would rue that missed chance. Naturally it was Chicharito that would tie it on a Ryan Giggs cross in the 83<sup>rd</sup> minute. But the match wasn’t over and David de Gea had to make a great save on yet another Mata free kick that was on its way in. 3-3 seemed reasonable in the end.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Liverpool 0-0 Tottenham</span></p>
<p>Anfield was ready for a classic as two top seven clubs were at it Monday night. Unfortunately, the fans did not get what they coveted. Neither team had many clear cut chances apart from one each for Gareth Bale, Andy Carroll, and sub Luis Suarez. The Uruguayan was making his first appearance for Liverpool after his nine-match suspension and got a yellow card for his troubles. Spurs defended very well, including multiple heroic blocks from Scott Parker and Michael Dawson. Not much else here, both teams will have plenty to say about the Champions League places, however.</p>
<p>This week’s team of the week is going to Arsenal for their demolition of Blackburn on Saturday, 7-1. Robin van Persie took home the match ball but my player of the week is going to Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain. His well-timed runs, blistering pace, and clinical finishing were all on display from the future star. Man City is the big winners this week with themselves, Arsenal and Newcastle the only top seven sides picking up three points. The last 14 match days are starting to look incredibly interesting. </p>
Adam Johnson
2012-02-06T22:26:00Z
La Liga Gameweek 21 (February 5 & 6)
Joseph Zucker
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/La-Liga-Gameweek-21-February-5--6/667781687064182760.html
2012-02-06T05:56:00Z
2012-02-06T05:56:00Z
It was a bit of a drab weekend in Spain. A total of 21 goals were scored in the nine matches over the weekend. You didn't even get to watch the dismantling of clubs by either Real Madrid or Barcelona. The teams 4th-7th in the table will be disappointed because by leaving points on the table, they either failed to take a hold of a Champions League place, or in Levante’s place, create some space from the 5th-place team.<br /><br /><strong>Athletic Bilbao 3-3 Espanyol (Match of the Week)</strong><br /><br />This match saw the 5th- and 6th-ranked teams facing off Going into the week, this was the match that was highlighted by all of the neutrals, and it did not disappoint. For Bilbao, it was an opportunity both Espanyol and Levante and claim the 4th spot. Bilbao dominated much of the match, but it didn’t show on the scoreline. Although they went up 1-0 on the strength of an Oscar goal in the 26th minute, Romaric of Espanyol equalized after an unlikely goal in the 33rd minute. Vladimir Weiss made it 2-1 to Espanyol in the 48th minute with what is probably the goal of the week.<br /><br />Athletic, though, stormed back to make it 3-2 after goals from Fernando Llorente and Javi Martinez. It looked like three points were in the bag for them. That was, until Martinez slipped and allowed Juan Albin an open shot on goal, which he finished a minute into injury time. It was definitely a point gained by Espanyol and two points lost for Bilbao. If you have ESPN3, go and watch the replay because it was a very thrilling game.<br /><br /><strong>Levante 1-1 Racing Santander</strong><br /><br />Much like Bilbao, Levante will be kicking themselves for letting an equalizer cost them two points. It was a really good opportunity for Levante to have made up some ground on Valencia at third place. Also, it could have increase some breathing room between themselves and the clubs on the outside looking in on Champions League qualification. You have to wonder if Levante are beginning to run out of steam. They’ve now gone six games without a win and have Real Madrid on Feb. 12th. If this is it for Levante, it’s been a great run for the club.<br /><br /><strong>Mallorca 1-0 Real Betis</strong><br /><br />It was a very well played match for Mallorca. After a free kick from Gonzalo Castro put them up 1-0, it was pretty much smooth sailing from there. Although they didn’t have the majority of possession, Betis failed to get a shot on target. They weren’t helped after Mario was sent off for picking up a second yellow. However, Mallorca saw two players sent off after both Ivan Ramis and Víctor Casadesús when they both received two yellows as well.<br /><br /><strong>Getafe 0-1 Real Madrid</strong><br /><br />Madrid maintained their seven-point lead atop the La Liga table following a win against Getafe. They really bossed the game throughout. You could see the frustration on the Getafe players as they committed needless fouls. Six players for Getafe were booked. Sergio Ramos headed in what would prove to be the winning goal off a corner in the 18th minute. Getafe almost went up early into the match when Diego Castro put a volley over the net from about three yards out. It was the closest Getafe would come to finding the net. You have to credit Getafe Miguel Moya because he performed very well when called upon.<br /><br /><strong>Barcelona 2-1 Real Sociedad</strong><br /><br />It was a dream first league start for 20-year-old winger Cristian Tello. He opened the scoring with a goal in the 8th minute. Following that goal, Barca had a bit of a tough time the rest of the way. Lionel Messi doubled the lead in the 72nd, but Carlos Vela then halved the deficit two minutes later. When you look at the possession numbers (Barcelona had 71% percent.), it would seem as if Sociedad were simply outclassed. That wasn’t necessarily the case. Victor Valdes had to make a couple of good saves to keep Sociedad from equalizing prior to the Messi goal.<br /><br /><strong>Sporting Gijon 1-1 Osasuna</strong><br /><br />Inaki Tejada made his managerial debut for Sporting, but he failed to get the club any closer to safety after picking up only a draw against Osasuna. It shouldn’t be considered a bad result, though, with Osasuna sitting ninth in the table. Gonzalez Carmelo opened the scoring for Gijon with a goal following a fabulous cross from Nacho Cases in the 32nd minute. Dejan Lekic equalized in the 77th minuted. For Osasuna, the story is much the same as every other mid-table club. It’s very packed right now and every victory means getting closer to fourth place.<br /><br /><strong>Sevilla 1-2 Villarreal</strong><br /><br />Villarreal finally escaped the drop zone after picking up all three points against Sevilla, which was also the Yellow Submarines’ first away win of the season. It was a bit of a microcosm for Villarreal’s season. Borja Valero gave them the lead in the 21st minute, but an own goal from Bruno a little over 10 minutes later made the scoreline 1-1. It was a frustrating match for both teams because they had very good chances to go up, but just couldn’t find the back of the net. In the 81st minute, Javier Camuñas gave Villarreal the much-needed win. They seem to be playing much better and receiving the new-manager bump from José Francisco Molina. A late win like this could really kick the rest of their season on.<br /><br /><strong>Real Zaragoza 1-2 Rayo Vallecano</strong><br /><br />For Zaragoza, it was their 13th loss in 21 matches. On only 12 points, they seemed destined for relegation. Things started so well for Zaragoza, too, after Hélder Postiga put them up in the 33rd minute. It was a lead they would maintain for 42 minutes, until Diego Costa leveled things up in the 75th minute. Michu then scored the winner in the 82nd minute. It was a heartbreaking defeat for Zaragoza, and it’s now 14 matches they’ve gone without a victory.<br /><br /><strong>Atlético Madrid 0-0 Valencia</strong><br /><br />Going in, you had to know this match wasn’t going to be pretty on the eyes, and in that respect, it didn’t disappoint. Interestingly enough, both teams had an equal amount of goals scored, 31. And that number would remain the same after 90 minutes. There were a total of four shots on target between the two teams, and quite honestly, there wasn’t a whole lot of action. The closest either team came to scoring was in the 65th minute when Radamel Falcao had a shot blocked off the line by Adil Rami. It was a great job by Rami to be in position to make the block. It was really difficult for either club to gain a serious advantage. Atleti supporters may look at the result as a continuation of the good run under Diego Simeone, but it looks like two points lost. As the last match of the weekend, the club had a golden opportunity as a win would have put them in 4th place.
Joseph Zucker
2012-02-06T05:56:00Z
Wigan 1-1 Everton: Late Goal from Anichebe Salvages Draw at the DW
James W. Hollis
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Wigan-1-1-Everton:-Late-Goal-from-Anichebe-Salvages-Draw-at-the-DW/-49543083946405893.html
2012-02-04T18:35:00Z
2012-02-04T18:35:00Z
<p>Wigan came out brightly despite being spanked in midweek by Tottenham. They kept possession well but never really looked like scoring. Jean Beausejour was had some luck attacking Tony Hibbert but Wigan’s strikers were on their heels when his crosses arrived in the penalty area. Wigan’s best chance in the first half came when Maynor Figueroa played a dangerous ball into Franco Di Santo, who forced a fine save from Tim Howard down to his right.</p>
<p>As the first half went on, Everton began to push Wigan back and the match looked like it would eventually swing fully in Everton’s favor. </p>
<p>The second half saw Everton bring on Phil Neville for Tim Cahill. David Moyes likely thought that Neville’s presence in the center of the park would keep Wigan from linking their defense to their midfield. That strategy appeared to be working (but it’s hard to tell because Wigan’s midfield is dreadful), as Everton became more rampant and the Wigan attackers appeared outnumbered when they attempted to counter. </p>
<p>New signing Nikica Jelavic replaced Denis Stracqualursi in the 60th minute. Jelavic was immediately involved as he dummied a cross to give Marouane Fellaini a shot but the ball was cut out before it got to Fellaini.</p>
<p>Heartbreak struck for the Everton defense in the 76th minute, when Phil Neville poked his foot at Jean Beausejour’s cross, putting a nasty backspin on the ball. Tim Howard appeared to have it covered before the ball spun back away from him and into the Everton net. (Rage. Frustration. Recriminations. Normal service resumed.) </p>
<p>After looking like we could concede a second in short order, Victor Anichebe came on for Tony Hibbert, who trudged off looking like a sodden body double of Vladimir Putin. </p>
<p>Anichebe, never one to stand on ceremony, set to work on the Wigan defense. His labors quickly paid dividends as he powerfully headed home a Leighton Baines cross in the 83rd minute. Everton looked likely to grab a second and finish off Wigan after Nikica Jelavic won a freekick on the edge of the Wigan box.</p>
<p>Unfortunately, David Moyes had used Everton’s weekly supply of luck on his midweek signings and Leighton Baines fired over the Wigan goal. That was the closest Everton came to putting the relegation-strugglers away and the match slumped to a frustrating conclusion.</p>
<p><strong>Talking Points:</strong><strong> </strong></p>
<p><strong>New Boys:</strong> So, positives to take from the game today. Steven Pienaar slipped back into the team as if he had never left. Considering that our team hadn’t recovered from losing him as the focal point of our offense, it wasn’t surprising that his return made our possession play take on a comfortable feel that it hadn’t all season. Jelavic was active when he came on but the service to him wasn’t particularly good. He may need some time to settle into the team but he definitely looks confident.</p>
<p><strong>Negative Tactics Against Inferior Opponents: </strong>Everton went from besting league leaders Manchester City at midweek to coming back to draw against the bottom team in the league in Wigan. While this season has been nothing if not a Jekyll/Hyde adventure for Everton fans, I get the feeling that we’re forcing it on ourselves sometimes by not pressuring poor sides early. Instead, we allow them to gain in confidence by letting them keep possession early and then concede painfully poor goals. I wouldn’t mind seeing Tim Cahill lose his place to Nikica Jelavic and for us to have a real go at poor sides. Tim Cahill is great for when we want to slow the game down and rely on set pieces but he hurts our fluency against sides like Wigan.</p>
<p><strong>Phil Neville: </strong>Moyes brought on Phil Neville at the beginning of the second half. Not that Moyes is never known for making negative decisions and Tim Cahill apparently picked up a knock, but Phil Neville has been drastically poor with the ball at his feet for at least the past two years. He misplaced more passes than any player on the pitch in midweek against City and, though he provides some defensive muscle in the middle of the park, he breaks up our play at least as well as he breaks up the other team’s. With Anichebe, Drenthe, and Magaye Gueye still on the bench and Leon Osman still to return from injury, I think Phil Neville is getting very close to his sell by date.</p>
<p><strong>Offsides:</strong> Everton’s offense came to a standstill on seven occasions today because of players being offside. A number were quite close but every time we appeared to be building something, an offside would foil the attack. Denis Stracqualursi was notably at fault a number of times. Perhaps he was tired from midweek but he didn’t have the concentration he needed to help our team today.</p>
<p><strong>Man of the Match: </strong>Bainaar.</p>
<p>Next Saturday, the Blues welcome Chelsea to Goodison Park. With any luck, losing at Goodison can be what gets the Chelsea manager sacked for the second year running. We’re five games unbeaten in all competitions and starting to put together a bit of a run, though wins are preferable to draws.</p>
<p>Follow me on twitter: @jwhollis </p>
James W. Hollis
2012-02-04T18:35:00Z
See you at Wembley in 2013
Joseph Zucker
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/See-you-at-Wembley-in-2013/207185251597243762.html
2012-02-04T04:40:00Z
2012-02-04T04:40:00Z
In the words of Michael Scott, “It takes a big man to admit his mistake, and I am that big man.”<br /><br />Looking back, I couldn’t have been more wrong about Diego Simeone. It’s almost embarrassing to look back on what I wrote in early January. I figured Simeone would come in and play a kind of game where Atlético would just beat the opponent into submission, find a goal, then go back to playing defensively for the rest of the game. I never would have expected Atlético to show the kind of attack that they have in the past couple of games. With the form the club is on, Champions League qualification is a possibility. Although they are in seventh place, Atlético is only two points behind fourth-place Levante and five points off third-place Valencia. Few expect Levante to finish fourth, but Athletic Bilbao, Espanyol and Malaga will be very stiff competition.<br /><br />Compare that to earlier in the season under Gregorio Manzano when there were whispers, albeit very faint whispers, that this club could be headed for relegation. I was very close to writing an article where I would have argued that if Atlético were to get relegated, it might prove to be the best thing they needed. Newcastle has become a different club since the one season they spent in the Championship.<br /><br />Watching Atlético under Manzano was difficult and it sapped almost all enthusiasm I had for being a supporter of the club. The players just looked lost. If they went down in a game, you could pretty much stick a fork in them because they weren’t coming back. In adversity, it just didn’t look like anyone would step up. You would see 11 faces all looking at each other wondering who would be the leader. Some wondered if sacking Manzano in December or January would even matter. 2011/12 had already been chalked up as a lost cause.<br /><br />That seems to have changed under Simeone. This is the one thing that I believe I got right. Simeone being a former Atleti player, I knew he felt pride in wearing the crest and he would expect his players to feel the same way. Upon his appointment, I had heard Tim Vickery on the World Football Phone-In say that Diego Simeone the player and Diego Simeone the manager were pretty much the same, fiery and in your face. I did question whether or not it would be too much. With players making so much money, it’s easy to think that they would simply tune out a manager like that.<br /><br />With all this said, it’s probably best to fall back down to earth a bit. In the same World Football Phone-In interview, Vickery had also said that Simeone’s style had all but alienated the players and supporters of Racing Club in Argentina. They were actually quite happy to see him go. He had clashed with the higher-ups of the club and certainly did not seem to enjoy his time, so maybe that rubbed off in his style. That leaves the question of if things start to go a little sour at the Calderón, the finger-pointing will begin and the club will fall right back into their mid-table form.<br /><br />Also, while Atlético scored three goals and four goals against Villarreal and Real Sociedad respectively, their style has been a little of what I had predicted. One of the hallmarks under Manzano was that Atlético would dominate possession. Rarely would it translate to the scoreline, but they seemed to maintain the lion’s share of possession. Prior to the Osasuna match, Atlético had failed to get a majority of possession. Even in the Villarreal match, where the club had 20 shots, nine of which were on goal, Atlético only had 41% of possession. I think the Osasuna match is going to be the real kind of game we can expect to see from Atlético Madrid. They only had four shots on goal, and their only goal came in the 40th minute off a cross from Filipe. That was all the club needed to get the three points. It was a pretty heated match as well with both clubs really getting stuck in. That is another thing you can expect to see from Atlético, lots of fouls. In the four games under Simeone, the club has registered 26, 13, 24 and 17 fouls.<br /><br />As great as Simeone has the club playing right now, February is going to really test the club. They face off with Valencia this Sunday, they have two legs with Lazio in the Europa League and finish off the month with Barcelona. By the end of the month, I think we’ll really know if Atlético Madrid is Champions League quality.<br /><br /><strong>Falcaometer</strong> (as of Feb. 3rd, 2012)<br /><br /><img src="data:image/png;base64,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" 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" 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" alt="" /><br /><br />This Week: 3<br /><br />Atlético Madrid is arguably at it's highest point of the season in terms of morale. Looking a bit lost under Manzano, Falcao is starting to show again the form that he had last season and is justifying his €40 million transfer. A showdown with Valencia on Sunday looms large, and a win will go a long way in establishing Atlético as Champions League qualifiers.
Joseph Zucker
2012-02-04T04:40:00Z
Galatasaray drop 5 in 2
Aydin Reyhan
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Galatasaray-drop-5-in-2/25568576754369334.html
2012-02-03T08:29:00Z
2012-02-03T08:29:00Z
<p>A first half strike from Pablo Batalla was enough to take all three points for Bursa over the weekend.</p>
<p>Felipe Melo’s penalty kick grabbed a point for Gala at their Turk Telekom Arena against Antalyaspor after Emrah Bassan opened the scoring for the visitors.</p>
<p>On Saturday, the league leaders will travel to Gaziantep to face Gaziantepspor. Milan Baros will be suspended for that game due to the direct red card he received against Antalya for arguing with the referee.</p>
<p>The Istanbul based side has had to cope with the loss of star right back Emmanuel Eboue due to international duty for the Ivory Coast in the African Cup of Nations. He has missed the last three games and is expected to miss the next two. His absence has caused problems on the right side of the defense since his back-up, Sabri Sarioglu, has been playing at a less-than-average level. Eboue has scored two goals thus far into the season.</p>
<p>Coach Fatih Terim has transferred two new additions to the team with one of them being a former number ten for the club, Necati Ates. The other addition was twenty-one year old Yigit Gokoglan of Vestel Manisaspor. Yigit has scored one goal in two appearances while Necati is still to make his debut since his deal was just finalized yesterday.</p>
<p>The one player who has played every game this season is none other than Selcuk Inan. After arriving in Istanbul this past summer from Trabzonspor, he has scored more goals so far for his new club than he has for any other in one year. The most he had ever scored in one season was five for Vestel Manisaspor back in the 2008/2009 season. After less than 20 games for GS, he has already managed to score seven. He has also assisted his teammates nine times.</p>
<p>Two unexpected young stars that stepped up their game this season are GS youth products Semih Kaya and Emre Colak.</p>
<p>Emre Colak featured for Gala last season and managed to gain the attention of his coaches, teammates, and fans. He was seen to be the replacement of Arda Turan who would later on join La Liga side Atletico Madrid. Emre has scored three times so far this season.</p>
<p>Semih Kaya has been trusted to play center back ahead of Servet Cetin and has done an admirable job. One of his best performances was during the Istanbul derby at home against arch rival Fenerbahce. His assignment was none other than their captain, Alex de Souza. He did manage to grab a late consolation goal for the visitors in which GS were 3-1 victors on the night.</p>
<p>Galatasaray sit atop the league with 51 points after 24 games. Fenerbahce are breathing down their backs as they sit right behind them with 48 points of their own. The two sides will meet for the second time in regular season play at Fenerbahce’s Sukru Saracoglu stadium on Sunday, March 18<sup>th</sup>, 2012. Before that tough match-up, Galatasaray will host other Istanbul rival Besiktas, whom they tied 0-0 in the first meeting at Besiktas’s Fiyapi Stadium. They will be two big games that can determine who finishes in first place.</p>
<p>However, this year even if Gala does finish in first, there will be a play-off system to take place after the regular season for the first time in history. The reason for this is due to match fixing that occurred last year. After a summer of intense investigation, the Turkish Futbol Federation has decided to instill the play-off system, making them the only major European soccer league to do so.</p>
<p>This may not be fair to the team that finishes first, but it will bring more soccer for the fans to enjoy and an interesting twist to crown the new champions of Turkey.</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
Aydin Reyhan
2012-02-03T08:29:00Z
Tim Ream's English Dream
Brian Markowitz
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Tim-Reams-English-Dream/407970188496806472.html
2012-02-03T01:32:00Z
2012-02-03T01:32:00Z
<p>When Tim Ream arrived in Major League Soccer, little was known about the defender. Ream played four years at the University of St. Louis, a solid – but not outstanding – college program, but had never been considered for the youth national team set-up. Ream was still an unknown quantity even after the league scouting combine, where draftees strut their stuff for three days in front of would-be employers. Indeed, after he was drafted in the second round with the 18<sup>th</sup> overall selection, the choice was widely met with bemusement by supporters.</p>
<p>Yet Ream was quick to vindicate his new bosses, head coach Hans Backe and sporting director Erik Soler. He drew rave reviews during the preseason training camp for his poise and skill on the ball, including an <a href="http://goal.blogs.nytimes.com/2010/03/17/red-bulls-coach-likes-one-young-defender-in-particular/">effusion</a> from Backe in which he compared Ream to Rio Ferdinand. Ream also surprised many when he broke into the starting XI in his rookie campaign and started every league match, anchoring the defense en route to the Eastern Conference regular season title. Ream impressed throughout the campaign with his calm demeanor on or off the ball on the backline, as well as his strong aerial skills. Ream was also a finalist, though did not win, the Rookie of the Year award.</p>
<p>The reward for his successful rookie campaign came in the form of a first cap for the United States against South Africa, in a friendly in November 2010. Ream impressed in his early appearances for the notional team and was quickly tipped to be a stalwart in an aging backline. </p>
<p>Yet as his star rose within the national team set-up, his play digressed during year two in MLS. Some of his trademark confidence betrayed him, and New York’s defense became one of the leakier ones in the league. His – and to be fair, the entire team’s – aerial prowess betrayed him a few times during the course of the season and many were beginning to question what happened to the young star. His digression carried over to the international venue, when Ream was called-up for the CONCACAF Gold Cup. Ream started the first two group matches of the competition, though was benched for the remainder of the tournament after his poor performance in the embarrassing 2-1 loss to Panama (it was the USA’s first ever loss to Panama and first ever loss during the group stages of the Gold Cup).</p>
<p>It was during the late summer months and postseason that Ream first put suitors on alert, however. Ream first impressed during the Emirates Cup at the Emirates Stadium, prompting Arsenal to be linked, with rumors of a loan deal or possible offer of £1.5 million being bandied about. During December, Ream went on to train with West Brom and Bolton, again generating rumors that those two clubs could make offers, with Trotters boss Owen Coyle particularly keen.</p>
<p>It was the impending sale of Gary Cahill, however, that really forced Coyle into the market, with the £2.5 million sale representing good business for both sides.</p>
Ream will naturally take some time to settle into the EPL, but should impress. The MLS’s fast and physical play are comparable to what he might find with Bolton and his mobility should hold him in good stead against some of the trickier forwards in the league. Ream will also come into the dressing room with no preconceived notions about playing time, instead relying on his strong work ethic to prove his worth. Further, the presence of fellow American international Stuart Holden will only aid Ream’s transition. As a supporter of Red Bulls, it was easy to tell that this day would come sooner rather than later. It is a sad day knowing that our young star is leaving, but exciting to know that he will be continuing his career in the best league in the world. The move will pay dividends, both for Coyle and for Ream’s progression with the national team, and I am confident that Ream will one day become the player Hans Backe gushed about during that preseason training camp two summers ago
Brian Markowitz
2012-02-03T01:32:00Z
Dust Settles in Scotland
Sandy Thin
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Dust-Settles-in-Scotland/-613108685697493666.html
2012-02-02T11:19:00Z
2012-02-02T11:19:00Z
<p>There are several reasons for this. First and foremost, in my opinion, is the sale of Rangers’ Nikica Jelavic to Everton. The Croat had an impeccable 2011, as the driving force behind Rangers’ double and scoring 28 goals in the calendar year. It was inevitable that bigger clubs were going to come looking for him and indeed in August, Rangers rejected a £6.5m bid from Championship side, Leicester City. Three important braces in the first half of the 2011-12 season, against Dundee Utd, Hibs and St Johnston, made him an even more desirable asset and come January there were several more English clubs after the big striker. Rangers rejected several bids from West Ham before, pressured for time and, with their desperate financial situation, needing to capitalise on Jelavic’ form, they were forced to accept a late £5.5m bid from Everton, taking Jelavic to the Premier League. He got a better reception on the Goodison pitch than an earlier pitch invader (<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QUk3vORG4cY">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QUk3vORG4cY</a>). On his arrival he said, “It is a big thing for me and it is a new step in my career, a step forward.” Time will tell if it was a good career move for the Croat but he should make his first start for the Toffees this weekend against struggling Wigan. Everton have had a turbulent season so far but are showing vague signs of recovery following their victory over league leaders, Man City, last night. A reliable front man is exactly what the Liverpuddlian side needs; currently Leighton Baines is their top scorer for the season with a grand total of three goals. You wouldn’t bet on a European place at this point in the season but stranger things have happened and Jelavic may prove a revelation in the Premier League.</p>
<p>Another reason for my recent joy has been the apparently unstoppable form of Celtic. With twelve wins on the trot, Hooper and Stokes in sensational form and a League Cup final against Kilmarnock to look forward to, things have barely been better for Celtic firms. As Rangers are only a point behind us in the league things are far from secure but considering the point differences mid-November things are certainly swinging in Celtic’s favour. The loss of Jelavic and long-term injury of Steven Naismith leave Rangers with very few options up front, as demonstrated by Ally McCoist’s desperate, yet unsuccessful, last minute attempt to pry Grant Holt from Norwich. Their manager can see that even with great players such as Steven Davis and Allan McGregor they will struggle to continue beating teams in the manner they are currently doing with such a lack of depth to their squad. By the time of the next Old Firm game, at the end of March, it may be that the league and indeed the season for Celtic are wrapped up.</p>
<p>The fan’s backing seems to have given Neil Lennon a greater inner confidence this season; leading him to better management of the team through calm encouragement and, when necessary, criticism. It is a better method than that of last season, in which he made clear his utter contempt for Rangers Football Club, obviously in doing so gaining the utmost respect and support of the Celtic faithful, but also almost getting himself killed in the process.</p>
<p>Yes, the SPL is a two team league and again by February, despite a valiant effort from Motherwell in the early part of the season, the point difference between second and third is almost twenty, but this doesn’t necessarily make it a bad league. It is no more two-team dominant than La Liga; though obviously lacking the majority of the Top 50 players in the world. However, to use a very tenuous allegory, all the Americans will not boycott the 2012 election simply because it is fought between only the Republicans and the Democrats, because that’s the way it has always been. Similarly, the SPL will still continue to be watched by all its fans in Scotland and around the world because it’s taken for granted that the league will always be fought between the two Glasgow clubs and it’s just as entertaining for that. The fact that two teams are much better than everyone else is better than a situation, as often is the case in England, in which yes, there are four or five very good teams, but almost always one separates itself from the pack leaving very little excitement on the final day of the season, unlike the SPL where for three of the last four years, the title race has gone down until the very last day.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Sandy Thin</p>
Sandy Thin
2012-02-02T11:19:00Z
Premier League Recap (January 21-22)
Adam Johnson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Premier-League-Recap-January-21-22/-179854299857534588.html
2012-01-23T08:18:00Z
2012-01-23T08:18:00Z
<p>It was a busy weekend in the Premier League with eight matches on Saturday, leading up to the two huge matches Sunday. It was a wild Saturday and London v. Manchester round 2 on Sunday, so lets get right in it…</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Norwich 0-0 Chelsea</span></p>
<p>Chelsea needed to get the job done away at Norwich but some staunch defending from Norwich and general poor play from Chelsea made sure that the Blues didn’t get what they wanted. It wasn’t necessarily a boring match but the lack of talking points in the early morning kickoff makes it hard to watch. Luckily for Chelsea the teams around them didn’t fare too well, either.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Everton 1-1 Blackburn</span></p>
<p>Tim Cahill finally got back on the score sheet after over a year to give the home side the lead. Blackburn leveled in the second half when Tim Howard whiffed on an attempted punch and David Goodwillie poked in the rebound. The Toffees had chances late and really could’ve used a win here, but had to settle for a point instead.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Fulham 5-2 Newcastle</span></p>
<p>Newcastle came into Craven Cottage on a nice run of form but they weren’t ready for Clint Dempsey, who may be in even better form. Danny Guthrie didn’t get that memo though as he rounded off a good first half for Newcastle with a blast of a goal. Danny Murphy tied it on a controversial penalty. Dempsey then scored with his mid section before conventionally finishing an attack for his second, Fulham’s third. The home side got another penalty and Bobby Zamora put that one away for 4-1. Hatem Ben Arfa pulled one back after a great run but Dempsey finished off his hat trick with another clinical finish.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">QPR 3-1 Wigan</span></p>
<p>New QPR boss, Mark Hughes, had his side up for it Saturday and the home win sent visitors, Wigan, to the bottom of the league. QPR went up on a Heidar Helguson penalty and doubled it on an Akos Buzaky free kick, all in the first half. Hugo Rodallega scored a free kick of his own to make it 2-1. Helguson then missed a penalty but Tommy Smith would leave no doubt and round off the win with a great strike for 3-1.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Stoke 1-2 West Brom</span></p>
<p>This was an odd result. Stoke are usually good at home and West Brom are usually average on the road. James Morrison opened the scoring for West Brom when Thomas Sorensen spilled his shot over the line. Stoke got a penalty that they probably wouldn’t have received on the road but Jon Walters missed the kick, and as Rasheed Wallace would say, “that ball don’t lie”. Cameron Jerome did eventually make it 1-1 for Stoke but Graham Dorrans sent a low free kick through everyone for the three points.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Sunderland 2-0 Swansea</span></p>
<p>Swansea were coming in off the back of their best win of the season and Sunderland, under Martin O’Neill, are looking better each week. Stephane Sessegnon and Craig Gardner scored sensational goals in the 13<sup>th</sup> and 85<sup>th</sup> minutes to get the home win.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Wolves 2-3 Aston Villa</span></p>
<p>The scoreline was the same as City-Spurs would be, even if it were not as important of a match. Darren Bent scored a penalty in the 11<sup>th</sup> minute to give Villa the lead. Michael Kightly and David Edwards flipped the game on its head before halftime and gave Wolves the advantage. Loanee, Robbie Keane, made it two each in the second half on a nice finish. Karl Henry (who might be my least favorite player in the League) was then sent off for a backeel on Marc Albrighton’s chest. With one extra player, Villa went on and won the match when Keane blasted home with just seven minutes to go.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Bolton 3-1 Liverpool</span></p>
<p>Liverpool was absolutely terrible on Saturday and Kenny Dalglish has the right to be upset at his players, as he was after the match. They went down 2-0 on Mark Davies and Nigel Reo-Coker goals. Craig Bellamy got one back but Greitar Steinsson ended any ideas of a comeback with a great finish after a corner fell to his feet, early in the second half. Like I said, Liverpool were awful, but to be fair to Bolton, they looked much better than their counterparts on the day.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Manchester City 3-2 Tottenham</span></p>
<p>The first half was mostly a tense affair where both teams felt each other out. The second half was anything but that. There were four goals in a nine minute stretch that ignited both teams fans and lead to a great finish. First it was Samir Nasri finishing off a beautiful David Silva pass then it was Joleon Lescott bundling over the line for 2-0. Spurs looked dejected but a mistake at the back, by Stefan Savic and Joe Hart, led to Jermaine Defoe pulling one back. Gareth Bale brilliantly leveled for Tottenham on a curling shot that wouldn’t have been saved by any keeper in the world. Mario Balotelli came on for Edin Dzeko in the 65<sup>th</sup> and made quite an impact. First he is yellow carded, then should’ve been sent off for a mini stomp, then brought down for a penalty, then converting said penalty to win the match in stoppage time. More and more people will ask, why always him?</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Arsenal 1-2 Manchester United</span></p>
<p>This match was a big one for soccer in the U.S. It was the first ever, Premier League match broadcasted live on a major network (FOX). The first half wasn’t classic stuff and Arsenal’s defense looked terrible. Antonio Valencia finished off a Ryan Giggs cross just before halftime to give United a well deserved lead. Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, the Arsenal youngster, led the Gunners in the second half and looked great while on the pitch. His run and pass set up Robin van Persie’s to make up for an earlier miss with the equalizer. Chamberlain was then mysteriously taken off to boos around the Emirates. It stayed at one each until Danny Welbeck got the winner for Man United with an emphatic finish.</p>
<p>What a great weekend of matches. The Sunday games, specifically Manchester City v. Tottenham, lived up to the hype and as usual, there were plenty of talking points. As great as that second half was, my player and team of the week go to Clint Dempsey and Fulham, respectively. His three goal performance was the first by an American in the Prem. </p>
Adam Johnson
2012-01-23T08:18:00Z
Liver n' Onions: Liverpool is that bad friend who always gets you into trouble.
Nash Larson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Liver-n-Onions:-Liverpool-is-that-bad-friend-who-always-gets-you-into-trouble./-880422521395027733.html
2012-01-19T00:55:00Z
2012-01-19T00:55:00Z
<p><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Looking back to a few weeks ago and continuing up to present day, I will assess some of the good, the bad and the down right fowl.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><img style="float: right;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QN57Vv0F0_Q/TxdqnasakhI/AAAAAAAAAnM/zeK-oAOf6g0/s320/tom-adeyemi_210288_2105919b.jpeg" border="0" alt="" width="320" height="200" /></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">In the wake of Luis Suarez's 8 match ban for racially abusing Patrice </span><span class="goog-spellcheck-word"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Evra</span></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">, Liverpool fans have been up in arms over a decision that sees their main out of action. What has come out in result of this is the club creating " support Suarez" t- shirts to which players have warn whilst warming up. This seems a bit wrong, supporting racism in a way, even if it's a team member. Feeling aggrieved that their goal threat is now significantly diminished, the club has tried to distance them selves from the racism claim and fight the fact that it was racist at all for Suarez to say what he did to </span><span class="goog-spellcheck-word"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Evra</span></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">. What sees those efforts squashed, quickly to mention was a certain number of fans racially abusing young right-back Tom </span><span class="goog-spellcheck-word"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Adeyemi</span></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> during Liverpool's FA Cup clash with </span><span class="goog-spellcheck-word"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Oldham</span></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">. This abuse brought the young player to tears, playing in one of the most significant games in his young career.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">As a Liverpool fan this disgusts me....the fact that a fans would have the nerve to racially abuse a player is one thing, but this occurring directly after the Suarez ordeal is just plain stupid. Feeling aggrieved that their star man will out for what they view as not a racist act, only responding with the events that took place against </span><span class="goog-spellcheck-word"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Oldham</span></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">. Once again the Reds are in the papers for the wrong reason. Stalling a bit in the league, without their main strike force, and now a pair of racist offensives equals hardly a comfortable standing. Expanding on this Stewart Downing was taken into custody after allegedly assaulting his ex-girlfriend, in a night-club. This is the last thing that Liverpool needed in the wake of the Suarez incident, and what happened at </span><span class="goog-spellcheck-word"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Oldham</span></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">. Downing scored in the 5-1 win against </span><span class="goog-spellcheck-word"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Oldham</span></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">, his first goal since moving from Aston Villa this summer, screaming somewhat of a disappointment in the scheme of new players brought in by </span><span class="goog-spellcheck-word"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Dalgleish</span></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Liverpool have been in the headlines for all the wrong reasons these last weeks with events mentioned above. With the January transfer window upon us rumors of Andy Carroll making a surprise move back to Newcastle, the team he moved from for 35 million pounds. Struggling with fitness since the move Carroll has yet to prove himself at </span><span class="goog-spellcheck-word"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Anfield</span></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">, but with Suarez out for 8 games people should be focusing on how he now has the chance to prove himself instead of him leaving. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">From the red side of Liverpool it has been a silly week or so, but all put levity aside when Liverpool faced Manchester City in the Carling Cup last Wednesday, defeating the Manchester powerhouse 1-0. The goal of a fourth or better place of the </span><span class="goog-spellcheck-word"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Dalgleish</span></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> lead Liverpool is one that will be difficult so in that light the reds should focus sights on the Carling Cup. In all honesty the Carling Cup is a competition that the Reds should feel they could win. A Champions League spot paired with some silverware, though be it the Carling Cup is something the reds should shoot for.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Some have accused manager Kenny </span><span class="goog-spellcheck-word"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Dalgleish</span></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> of being tactically negligent, having taken a long break away from football, and this view-point seemed to retained water when his squad faced Stoke City. The old dog showed us well some old tricks as we failed to score a goal, playing in a highly defensive set-up. Stoke is a side that prides its self of being defensively solid, with strong players from back to front. Liverpool having one of the most defensively sound record this season seemed to fight fire with fire, seemingly to at times have a 5 man back-line. With Luis Suarez out and Carroll well whatever…Dalgleish had the options of Dirk </span><span class="goog-spellcheck-word"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Kuyt</span></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> and Craig Bellamy, the Scot chose </span><span class="goog-spellcheck-word"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Kuyt</span></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> to pierce the Stoke back-line, leading the line on his own. It looked as though he was hoping the trickery of </span><span class="goog-spellcheck-word"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Kuyt</span></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> would foil the slow, strength oriented Stoke back-line. This did not work and </span><span class="goog-spellcheck-word"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Kuyt</span></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> scuffed a pure peach of chance, as he found himself with a free header but it spun wide. Andy Carroll came on with 30 minutes to go to try to get on the end of Gerrard's passes, but he looked lost, and the one dimensional style of lofting balls at the pony-tailed head of Carroll, was dealt with ease by the Stoke defenders. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></p>
<p><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1s-dPXHWTik/TxdqzLZ01lI/AAAAAAAAAnU/UgFFKMjgwLk/s1600/GERRARD+STOKE.jpeg"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><img style="float: right;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1s-dPXHWTik/TxdqzLZ01lI/AAAAAAAAAnU/UgFFKMjgwLk/s320/GERRARD+STOKE.jpeg" border="0" alt="" width="320" height="193" /></span></a><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">There was just not enough in attack, resulting in a 0-0 draw with Stoke, </span><span class="goog-spellcheck-word"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Kuyt</span></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> came to Liverpool as a striker, but after years of watching him, he's not. Better supporting a striker, as a link between midfield, </span><span class="goog-spellcheck-word"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Kuyt</span></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> has been a great servant but I would not ask him to lead the line. Craig Bellamy would have been a better option as his second stint on </span><span class="goog-spellcheck-word"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Merseyside</span></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> has been more fruitful than expected, and his speed and agility is tough for many to deal with. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">To be honest the love affair that I have with </span><span class="goog-spellcheck-word"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Dalgleish</span></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> is being tested. Great last season, when implemented as coach but results this season have fallen by the wayside. It's actually not so much the results but its the way that we set up at the start of the game, the mindset, the approach, all of that. Liverpool put on a defensive clinic against Manchester City in the Carling cup, after Gerrard put the team ahead through a penalty. With Jamie </span><span class="goog-spellcheck-word"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Carragher</span></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> introduced into the midfield in the second half, they defended doggedly, but when this is happening against Stoke City….something is backwards. I am no tactical genius but setting up to attack, when you have one of the best defenses in the Premier League seems like a good idea…or is that just me?</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></p>
<p class="separator"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JvmeLI_gXZg/TxdrDR7cuLI/AAAAAAAAAnc/dkqj7RqkGJg/s1600/Jermain%252BDefoe%252BBlackburn%252BRovers%252Bv%252BTottenham%252B4zZcdWUHpyGl.jpeg"><img style="float: left;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JvmeLI_gXZg/TxdrDR7cuLI/AAAAAAAAAnc/dkqj7RqkGJg/s320/Jermain%252BDefoe%252BBlackburn%252BRovers%252Bv%252BTottenham%252B4zZcdWUHpyGl.jpeg" border="0" alt="" width="263" height="320" /></a><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">With transfer rumors swirling around the footballing landscape, Liverpool have been pretty quiet. Feeling as though he has the squad to push on, even with the suspensions and injuries, the few rumors there has been have come on the offensive side of the game. With </span><span class="goog-spellcheck-word"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Dalgleish</span></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> trying to build a strong British based side, sights have been set on Jermaine Defoe, who has been suffering from sores sustained by sitting on the </span><span class="goog-spellcheck-word"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Tottenham</span></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> bench. Needing a goal scorer, the risk of going for a player whose bench time outweighs his time on the pitch is not really the direction I would orient my compass. I'm one for the outrageous and nothing would be more outrageous than an </span><span class="goog-spellcheck-word"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Anfield</span></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> return from the once divine son, Fernando Torres. With Torres being " offered" to Carlo </span><span class="goog-spellcheck-word"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Ancelotti</span></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> at </span><span class="goog-spellcheck-word"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">PSG</span></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">, the striker with something to prove could do this back at his own stomping grounds having seen what it's like at the next level. Call it a vision quest, and now he is ready to return and show the player he was and is. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">On a more realistic note Liverpool have completed the signing of a player who has been heralded as " The New Deco," 19 year old </span><span><span class="goog-spellcheck-word"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">João</span></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> Carlos from Sporting Lisbon academy, the same academy who produced Cristiano </span><span class="goog-spellcheck-word"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Ronaldo</span></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> and Nani. </span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">With Liverpool's next match against Bolton a team floundering at the bottom who recently lost their prized asset Gary </span><span class="goog-spellcheck-word"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Cahill</span></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> to Chelsea, will be a wounded animal that Liverpool should set out to ravage. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Check out more @ http://spotkickjournalism.blogspot.com/</span></p>
Nash Larson
2012-01-19T00:55:00Z
Pardew delighted with Cisse capture
Thomas Rooney
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Pardew-delighted-with-Cisse-capture/-415600914393055847.html
2012-01-18T16:01:00Z
2012-01-18T16:01:00Z
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">
<div><span style="widows: 2; text-transform: none; text-indent: 0px; display: inline ! important; font: small arial; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; float: none; letter-spacing: normal; color: #000000; word-spacing: 0px;">Those looking at</span><strong style="line-height: normal; widows: 2; text-transform: none; font-variant: normal; font-style: normal; text-indent: 0px; font-family: arial; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; letter-spacing: normal; color: #000000; font-size: small; word-spacing: 0px;"><span class="Apple-converted-space"></span></strong><strong style="line-height: normal; widows: 2; text-transform: none; font-variant: normal; font-style: normal; text-indent: 0px; font-family: arial; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; letter-spacing: normal; color: #000000; font-size: small; word-spacing: 0px;"> <a href="http://www.soccernews.com/soccer-betting/mobile-betting-sites/">mobile betting sites</a></strong><span style="widows: 2; text-transform: none; text-indent: 0px; display: inline ! important; font: small arial; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; float: none; letter-spacing: normal; color: #000000; word-spacing: 0px;"><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span> note how the striker will join up with his new team-mates after the African Cup of Nations, where he will partner leading scorer Demba Ba who is also away on international duty at the moment.</span><br style="widows: 2; text-transform: none; text-indent: 0px; font: small arial; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; letter-spacing: normal; color: #000000; word-spacing: 0px;" /><br style="widows: 2; text-transform: none; text-indent: 0px; font: small arial; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; letter-spacing: normal; color: #000000; word-spacing: 0px;" /><span style="widows: 2; text-transform: none; text-indent: 0px; display: inline ! important; font: small arial; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; float: none; letter-spacing: normal; color: #000000; word-spacing: 0px;">This means that Newcastle will have to be patient for their first choice striker force to take to the field, but Pardew believes it will be worth the wait, saying that Cisse was his ‘number one’ transfer target.</span><br style="widows: 2; text-transform: none; text-indent: 0px; font: small arial; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; letter-spacing: normal; color: #000000; word-spacing: 0px;" /><br style="widows: 2; text-transform: none; text-indent: 0px; font: small arial; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; letter-spacing: normal; color: #000000; word-spacing: 0px;" /><span style="widows: 2; text-transform: none; text-indent: 0px; display: inline ! important; font: small arial; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; float: none; letter-spacing: normal; color: #000000; word-spacing: 0px;">The Magpies boss said: “Ever since Andy Carroll left, Papiss was my first choice in the specific role he has at the end of the play.”</span><br style="widows: 2; text-transform: none; text-indent: 0px; font: small arial; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; letter-spacing: normal; color: #000000; word-spacing: 0px;" /><br style="widows: 2; text-transform: none; text-indent: 0px; font: small arial; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; letter-spacing: normal; color: #000000; word-spacing: 0px;" /><span style="widows: 2; text-transform: none; text-indent: 0px; display: inline ! important; font: small arial; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; float: none; letter-spacing: normal; color: #000000; word-spacing: 0px;">“He is a finisher with an already-established CV in the Bundesliga, where we have monitored him for the best part of two years.”</span><br style="widows: 2; text-transform: none; text-indent: 0px; font: small arial; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; letter-spacing: normal; color: #000000; word-spacing: 0px;" /><br style="widows: 2; text-transform: none; text-indent: 0px; font: small arial; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; letter-spacing: normal; color: #000000; word-spacing: 0px;" /><span style="widows: 2; text-transform: none; text-indent: 0px; display: inline ! important; font: small arial; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; float: none; letter-spacing: normal; color: #000000; word-spacing: 0px;">“Unfortunately he was out of reach, financially, for us in the summer, but it recently became apparent that Derek Llambias and Lee Charnley could do the deal in this window.”</span><br style="widows: 2; text-transform: none; text-indent: 0px; font: small arial; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; letter-spacing: normal; color: #000000; word-spacing: 0px;" /><br style="widows: 2; text-transform: none; text-indent: 0px; font: small arial; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; letter-spacing: normal; color: #000000; word-spacing: 0px;" /><span style="widows: 2; text-transform: none; text-indent: 0px; display: inline ! important; font: small arial; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; float: none; letter-spacing: normal; color: #000000; word-spacing: 0px;">“It has become obvious this season that the team and the club have done exceptionally well, and Mike Ashley has backed me to bring this player to the club.”</span><br style="widows: 2; text-transform: none; text-indent: 0px; font: small arial; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; letter-spacing: normal; color: #000000; word-spacing: 0px;" /><br style="widows: 2; text-transform: none; text-indent: 0px; font: small arial; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; letter-spacing: normal; color: #000000; word-spacing: 0px;" /><span style="widows: 2; text-transform: none; text-indent: 0px; display: inline ! important; font: small arial; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; float: none; letter-spacing: normal; color: #000000; word-spacing: 0px;">“I would like to thank Mike, Derek and everyone involved for getting this deal over the line.”</span><br style="widows: 2; text-transform: none; text-indent: 0px; font: small arial; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; letter-spacing: normal; color: #000000; word-spacing: 0px;" /><br style="widows: 2; text-transform: none; text-indent: 0px; font: small arial; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; letter-spacing: normal; color: #000000; word-spacing: 0px;" /><span style="widows: 2; text-transform: none; text-indent: 0px; display: inline ! important; font: small arial; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; float: none; letter-spacing: normal; color: #000000; word-spacing: 0px;">“I spoke to Demba (Ba) about Papiss, and he cannot wait to join up with his team-mate in Newcastle.”</span><br style="widows: 2; text-transform: none; text-indent: 0px; font: small arial; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; letter-spacing: normal; color: #000000; word-spacing: 0px;" /><br style="widows: 2; text-transform: none; text-indent: 0px; font: small arial; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; letter-spacing: normal; color: #000000; word-spacing: 0px;" /><span style="widows: 2; text-transform: none; text-indent: 0px; display: inline ! important; font: small arial; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; float: none; letter-spacing: normal; color: #000000; word-spacing: 0px;">"In the short-term, of course, he is at the Africa Cup of Nations, but the competition he will bring to our squad when he joins up with us should inspire the players and reassure them of this club's ambition.”</span><br style="widows: 2; text-transform: none; text-indent: 0px; font: small arial; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; letter-spacing: normal; color: #000000; word-spacing: 0px;" /><br style="widows: 2; text-transform: none; text-indent: 0px; font: small arial; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; letter-spacing: normal; color: #000000; word-spacing: 0px;" /><span style="widows: 2; text-transform: none; text-indent: 0px; display: inline ! important; font: small arial; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; float: none; letter-spacing: normal; color: #000000; word-spacing: 0px;">As for the player himself – who left<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span><a href="http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-2088055/Papiss-Demba-Cisse-completes-Newcastle-switch.html"><strong style="line-height: normal; widows: 2; text-transform: none; font-variant: normal; font-style: normal; text-indent: 0px; font-family: arial; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; letter-spacing: normal; color: #000000; font-size: small; word-spacing: 0px;">Senegal’s</strong></a><span style="widows: 2; text-transform: none; text-indent: 0px; display: inline ! important; font: small arial; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; float: none; letter-spacing: normal; color: #000000; word-spacing: 0px;"> training camp to complete the deal – he too has revealed how pleased he is with the move, saying that he cannot wait to get started at his new club.</span><br style="widows: 2; text-transform: none; text-indent: 0px; font: small arial; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; letter-spacing: normal; color: #000000; word-spacing: 0px;" /><br style="widows: 2; text-transform: none; text-indent: 0px; font: small arial; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; letter-spacing: normal; color: #000000; word-spacing: 0px;" /><span style="widows: 2; text-transform: none; text-indent: 0px; display: inline ! important; font: small arial; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; float: none; letter-spacing: normal; color: #000000; word-spacing: 0px;">The 26-year-old said: “It is an honour to play for such a big club. I would like to thank everybody for their welcome, and for inviting me to sign for the club.”</span><br style="widows: 2; text-transform: none; text-indent: 0px; font: small arial; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; letter-spacing: normal; color: #000000; word-spacing: 0px;" /><br style="widows: 2; text-transform: none; text-indent: 0px; font: small arial; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; letter-spacing: normal; color: #000000; word-spacing: 0px;" /><span style="widows: 2; text-transform: none; text-indent: 0px; display: inline ! important; font: small arial; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; float: none; letter-spacing: normal; color: #000000; word-spacing: 0px;">“I want to pay back the confidence the club have shown in me and give the supporters something to be proud of.”</span><br style="widows: 2; text-transform: none; text-indent: 0px; font: small arial; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; letter-spacing: normal; color: #000000; word-spacing: 0px;" /><br style="widows: 2; text-transform: none; text-indent: 0px; font: small arial; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; letter-spacing: normal; color: #000000; word-spacing: 0px;" /><span style="widows: 2; text-transform: none; text-indent: 0px; display: inline ! important; font: small arial; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; float: none; letter-spacing: normal; color: #000000; word-spacing: 0px;">"I am aware of the huge importance of the number nine shirt and, when I spoke with the manager, he made it very clear how important this shirt is.”</span><br style="widows: 2; text-transform: none; text-indent: 0px; font: small arial; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; letter-spacing: normal; color: #000000; word-spacing: 0px;" /><br style="widows: 2; text-transform: none; text-indent: 0px; font: small arial; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; letter-spacing: normal; color: #000000; word-spacing: 0px;" /><span style="widows: 2; text-transform: none; text-indent: 0px; display: inline ! important; font: small arial; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; float: none; letter-spacing: normal; color: #000000; word-spacing: 0px;">"I will treat it with the respect and I hope to do my very best in this shirt.”</span><br style="widows: 2; text-transform: none; text-indent: 0px; font: small arial; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; letter-spacing: normal; color: #000000; word-spacing: 0px;" /><br style="widows: 2; text-transform: none; text-indent: 0px; font: small arial; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; letter-spacing: normal; color: #000000; word-spacing: 0px;" /><span style="widows: 2; text-transform: none; text-indent: 0px; display: inline ! important; font: small arial; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; float: none; letter-spacing: normal; color: #000000; word-spacing: 0px;">Cisse will have to wait until next month for his debut of course, with everyone involved hoping that it is worth the wait as he looks to help Newcastle achieve a top six finish this season.</span><br style="widows: 2; text-transform: none; text-indent: 0px; font: small arial; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; letter-spacing: normal; color: #000000; word-spacing: 0px;" /></div>
</span>
<div style="font: 10pt Tahoma;"></div>
Thomas Rooney
2012-01-18T16:01:00Z
Premier League Recap (January 14-16)
Adam Johnson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Premier-League-Recap-January-14-16/-884170331346112387.html
2012-01-17T20:23:00Z
2012-01-17T20:23:00Z
<p>The Premier League returned this weekend after the 3<sup>rd</sup> round of the FA Cup and while there weren’t any huge matchups, there were plenty of results that affect the Champions League places. Lets jump right in with the key points of the ten matches.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Chelsea 1-0 Sunderland</span></p>
<p>With Didier Drogba at the African Cup of Nations this month, a chance for Fernando Torres to get a run of starts is upon El Nino. He almost had a fantastic goal but his mid air volley nailed the crossbar and Frank Lampard was there to tap in and give Chelsea the lead. Both clubs had opportunities to score but the match would stay this way and Chelsea took home all three points.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Aston Villa 1-1 Everton</span></p>
<p>The bookmakers had this as a 1-1, I had this as a 1-1 and it finished 1-1. Goals from Darren Bent for Villa and Victor Anichebe for Everton made sure it stayed at a goal apiece.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Blackburn 3-1 Fulham</span></p>
<p>I have to admit I didn’t see this coming, but I guess I never see a Blackburn win coming. This win came even with their leading goal scorer, Yakubu, being sent off in the first half. Morten Gamst Pedersen gave Blackburn the lead before halftime. David Dunn doubled that lead early in the second half. Damien Duff then cut that lead but Mauro Formica finished off the Cottagers when he made it 3-1.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Liverpool 0-0 Stoke</span></p>
<p>Yet another home draw for Liverpool in this one. It was a decent point for Stoke, but there is no way Liverpool will make the Champions League with more matches like this.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Manchester United 3-0 Bolton</span></p>
<p>Man United were coming off of two straight league defeats so you had to know that they would come out strong. They did just that and Danny Welbeck drew a penalty but Wayne Rooney had his spot kick saved. The first goal would come, however, when Paul Scholes scored on his first start after a brief retirement. The Red Devils had plenty of chances but the second wouldn’t come until Welbeck poked home after good work from Rooney. The match was finished off when Michael Carrick hit one from outside the box.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">West Brom 1-2 Norwich</span></p>
<p>Norwich just might be a top ten side this season. They won away at the Hawthorns on Saturday with goals from Surman and Morrison either side of a Shane Long penalty. Three more points for the Canaries.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Tottenham 1-1 Wolves</span></p>
<p>These are the matches that Spurs have to win if they want to have a real shot at the title. They dominated the first half and the whole game really but they couldn’t get that goal. Wolves took their one good early chance when Steven Fletcher poked home from a corner they received that should’ve been a goal kick. It would stay 1-0 until halftime but early in the second half Spurs were level when Luka Modric’s shot skimmed under Wolves keeper Wayne Hennessey. The home side had more chances to win but it never came and it would finish in a disappointing draw.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Newcastle 1-0 QPR</span></p>
<p>If Newcastle wants to push for a Europa League place then these are the grind-it-out game they need to win. Fortunately for Alan Pardew, his team did that through a Leon Best strike. Who needs Demba Ba?</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Swansea 3-2 Arsenal</span>*</p>
<p>This was a great game for attacking football. Both teams went at it and both made huge defensive mistakes and scored great goals. Robin van Persie scored the opener inside of ten minutes but Swansea answered back when Scott Sinclair finished a penalty that Nathan Dyer drew. It would stay at 1-1 until halftime, but then Dyer gave the Swans the lead. Arsenal kept coming and Theo Walcott eventually leveled on a nice chip. Just 45 seconds later, however, Danny Graham gave Swansea their biggest win of the season.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Wigan 0-1 Manchester City</span></p>
<p>The Monday night game wasn’t much to watch this week and the entire second half felt like a formality. Edin Dzeko scored with his head after a great free kick from David Silva put it there. Both teams had a couple of chances and Sergio Aguero could’ve wrapped it up twice but it stayed at 1-0.</p>
<p><strong>*Game of the Week</strong></p>
<p>Nathan Dyer get the player of the week award from me but no team of the week award seeing as none of the 20 really stood out. It wasn’t a classic round of matches but the contenders and pretenders are becoming more evident. There are races all over the table that will be interesting down the stretch. Look out for Arsenal v. Manchester United and Tottenham v. Manchester City in next week’s slate of matches.</p>
Adam Johnson
2012-01-17T20:23:00Z
Will They Or Won't They?
A.J. Nelson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Will-They-Or-Wont-They/844487061546183220.html
2012-01-17T03:06:00Z
2012-01-17T03:06:00Z
<p>Real Madrid has three players whose names have been bandied about in the transfer market for some time: Esteban Granero, Raul Albiol and Kaká. The transfer window gives the press fodder to make wild statements based on supposed “insider sources”. Yet for the fans, it is often a time to hold their breath and pray. When all is said and done, they frequently are mumbling something along the lines of…how could my team do something so mind-numbing, stupid, insane, brilliant, or earth-shattering. You can choose. It frequently depends on the team you follow.</p>
<p>So, let’s start with Esteban Granero. I have read several reports (or wishful thinking pieces) that Arsenal is interested in him. Arsenal could use him. The only reason they are in the upper half of the Premier League is courtesy of Robin Van Persie’s sizzling goal scoring record. Injuries and a lack of performance by some players have made their fans question their abilities and Granero would be a good fit. According to Granero’s agent, however, it is not Arsenal, but Liverpool preparing a bid. Is it a wise decision for Madrid to sell him, however? Xabi Alonso is the man José Mourinho wants in the midfield, but at 30 years old, he won’t be there forever. Granero has shown glimpses of brilliance and with consistent playing time he could be a strong addition to any team. He could also be the eventual replacement for Alonso. Perhaps sending him on loan would be a wise decision for José, but a transfer, I think not.</p>
<p>Now, let us move on to Raul Albiol. He was a starter at Valencia, but has been relegated to the Real Madrid bench for the majority of this season, playing in only 5 league games. He is strong enough to be regularly called up for the Spanish National Team (albeit as a part of the bench), yet he has minimal minutes and has barely seen the pitch for Madrid. It would not be a shock to see him transferred, but with Sergio Ramos, Pepe and Carvalho all having injury spells this year, it would not be the wisest move to transfer a player with the experience and versatility of Albiol. Rumor has it that he is also one of the most adored players in the locker room and that says a lot for a team full of big “personalities”.</p>
<p>And that brings us to the third transfer target: Kaká. Rumors have abounded about his departure, almost since his arrival. He is expensive and has not performed to the expected standards, at least in terms of the Madrid media. After being subbed at half two games in a row recently, a transfer seemed all but imminent. However, this past weekend, he came on in the second half against Mallorca and made a significant impact, allowing Madrid to make a comeback. Maybe he isn’t going anywhere after all.</p>
<p>So all this begs the question…will they or won’t they? When it comes to transfers, José Mourinho has been adamant. He was quoted, as recently as last week, that “[Madrid] will finish the season with the same players we have.” Of course, we will have to take that statement with a grain of salt. I am fairly certain Manchester United’s coach, Sir Alex Ferguson, made a similar statement two days before he brought Paul Scholes out of retirement. If that’s the case, perhaps there is a return for Raúl in the works! [My transfer window flare is asserting itself…and if you believe that statement, I have a bridge…]</p>
<p>As for the other big question…the Copa Del Rey quarterfinals start on Wednesday in Madrid. Will they or won’t they beat Barcelona is a question that won’t likely be answered until the second leg in Barcelona. And if I were a gambler, I would say the transfers won’t be answered until after that as well. </p>
A.J. Nelson
2012-01-17T03:06:00Z
Are You Not Entertained?
Joseph Zucker
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Are-You-Not-Entertained/181345464589731843.html
2012-01-13T03:09:00Z
2012-01-13T03:09:00Z
It took 12 seconds for Atlético Madrid to show what can be expected of the club under Simeone. That’s how long it took for Atleti to pick up its first foul of the match. They eventually racked up 26 fouls and five yellow cards. <br /><br />It shouldn’t really come as too much of a shock to hear what kind of style Simeone wants to bring. A defensive midfielder himself, he wasn’t averse to getting stuck into a game, and he is going to expect the same of his players.<br /><br />The good thing about Simeone is that he is a former Colchonero himself. He had two stints at the club, 1994-97 and 2003-05. Prior to receiving the job, he had made it clear that managing Atlético Madrid was a career aspiration of his. One major problem with the current squad seems Joséto be a lack of passion for the crest. Installing a former player as manager may help revive that passion.<br /><br />Simeone is a kind of manager who will get in his players’ faces if need be. That can be a double-edged sword, though. It can really inspire players initially, especially if there’s some success right away. But over time, it can also be very grating. Gregorio Manzano had a much publicized clash with Jose Antonio Reyes and to some extent, it probably cost him the dressing room and his job. I’ve heard that the players and supporters at Racing Club were both happy to see Simeone go because he had begun to wear out his welcome, thanks in large part to his fiery style.<br /><br />I am a bit torn over his hire. As I said, he’s made no bones about what he plans to do. In an interview with the club website, he said, “I want to win and I would be happy attacking once and scoring one goal.” <br /><br />While the first part isn’t anything too surprising, the second half does sound a little too disheartening for any Atlético supporters who wish to watch football and be get some enjoyment by just the spectacle of the sport. This is essentially one of the big debates about the game. Is football meant to be entertaining to the supporter? That was one tenet of Kevin Keegan and his Newcastle side of the ‘90s. He said that supporters had worked all week and deserved to be entertained when they go to a football match. Of course, it also must be said that Newcastle never won the title, either. <br /><br />The brutal truth is that Atlético can try and play the most beautiful football imaginable, but it won’t ever be good enough to be either of these Barcelona or Real Madrid sides. Many would argue that tactics are meaningless in those fixtures anyway, but it is also true that the tactics deployed by Simeone would most likely get Atleti much closer to victory than those used by Gregorio Manzano. You saw it when Levante played Madrid. They essentially kicked Madrid right out of the game, withstood any Real attack and hung on for a 1-0 victory. According to Soccernet, they only had 30% of possession, yet we only remember the scoreline. While the way Levante play isn’t a lot of fun to watch, it has kept them in or near 4th place all season long.<br /><br />I prefer to see a free-flowing, fluid style of football. I’ve always been a fan of the Total Football of the ‘70s Ajax and Dutch national team squads. I understand that every club can’t play like Barcelona, but to read what Simeone’s plans are and to watch the Malaga match, I can’t help but be a little apprehensive at his appointment. <br /><br />I will say, however, that I agree with Jonathan Wilson on one thing: When done right, defensive football can be fascinating to watch. Defensive football ceases to be enjoyable when it’s accompanied by diving, cheating and kicking. What worries me is that the defensive style of Simeone will begin to hover in the antagonistic direction. I think that regardless of results, sometimes playing a slow, defensive style can suck all the fun from winning altogether. Maybe I’m just too idealistic. And if Atlético were to qualify for the Champions League by winning every match 1-0, how they got there would probably become irrelevant.<br /><br /><strong>Falcaometer</strong> (as of January 13th, 2012)<br /><br /><img 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" 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" 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" 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" alt="" /><br /><br />This week: 4<br /><br />Simeone is definitely getting a bit of the new manager bump. Everyone involved with the club has said that there is a renewed sense of optimism among the players in training. It’s most likely only a matter of time before the wheels fall off, but if recent history’s any indicator, Simeone has a good 6-8 months ahead of him.
Joseph Zucker
2012-01-13T03:09:00Z
Everton 1-2 Bolton: Lucky Strike from Tim Howard Not Enough to Overshadow Poor Performance
James W. Hollis
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Everton-1-2-Bolton:-Lucky-Strike-from-Tim-Howard-Not-Enough-to-Overshadow-Poor-Performance/-721589497276311587.html
2012-01-05T17:20:00Z
2012-01-05T17:20:00Z
<p>Everton sank to their fifth loss at home in a gale on Wednesday night despite a freak goal by Tim Howard. Everton started brightly, buoyed by the return of Landon Donovan. Donovan won a free kick in the opening minute, slaloming past Samuel Ricketts before being dragged down just outside the box. Everton looked the more likely to score initially, as Stracqualursi and Saha spurned chances and Leon Osman had a shot tamely saved by Adam Bogdan.</p>
<p>Bolton tried to hit back through David Ngog, who ran clear of the Everton defense after the wind caused the ball to bounce dangerously past Tony Hibbert and Phil Jagielka. Sylvain Distin managed to slow Ngog with a challenge before Phil Jagielka came sliding in to put an end to the danger. In making the challenge, Jagielka injured his knee and was forced off in 42nd minute, replaced by Jack Rodwell. John Heitinga shifted into Jagielka’s right centerback position.</p>
<p>Everton’s best chance for a goal in the first half came in the 44th minute when Landon Donovan ran clear of the Bolton defense and appeared to be taken down from behind by Ricketts. Despite a long discussion with both Donovan and Phil Neville, referee Phil Dowd refused to give a penalty (though the play was almost a mirror image of the foul he gave in the first minute on Ricketts). The half ended scoreless.</p>
<p>Everton began the second half in dominant fashion, ramping up the pressure on the Bolton goal to no avail. Leon Osman, who was orchestrating Everton’s play in the middle, was substituted because of injury in the 52nd minute, replaced by Magaye Gueye. In Osman’s absence, Everton began to fall apart, giving away balls in their own half and allowing Bolton needless scoring opportunities.</p>
<p>Any hope David Moyes had of making an impact sub was foiled in the 61st minute when Jack Rodwell pulled up, feeling his hamstring, and had to be replaced by Tim Cahill. And then it happened, the ball was laid back to Tim Howard who fired it up toward the strikers. The ball took a bounce at the edge of the 18-yard box and picked up speed in the wind, sailing over the head of Adam Bogdan into the Gwladys Street net (<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=bkCzQN1T5Tg">video</a>). Howard, feeling for Bogdan, refused to celebrate.</p>
<p>Everton supporters’ joy was short-lived, as RS cast-off and part-time diver David Ngog, given far too much space in the box for the second time in the half, found the bottom corner of Tim Howard’s goal and leveled the score in the 67th minute. Bolton was not done and, in the 78th minute, Gary Cahill found space following a Martin Petrov free kick and fired another shot past Howard. Leighton Baines almost saved a point at the death when his free kick hit the crossbar but the match finished 2-1 to Bolton.</p>
<p><strong>Talking Points:</strong></p>
<p><strong>Tim Howard’s Goal:</strong> I’ve gotten a number of texts from friends since the match fawning over Howard’s goal. I’m glad that it got Everton on mainstream TV in the U.S. for the first time since probably 2009, but the goal was a product of some horrible wind and Howard scored our only goal against a team clinging onto the bottom of the table. He wasn’t that pumped about it, and neither am I, because we lost to Bolton.</p>
<p><strong>Louis Saha:</strong> Louis Saha cannot start again. Against Bolton, he had three clear opportunities that he failed to even put on target, scuffing them <em>with his good foot</em>. Add those to the similar one he missed on Sunday and it is surprising to see him still included in the starting lineup week after week. He’s scored one goal in 15 matches on 43 shots. I’d rather see Conor McAleny get a start against both Tamworth and Spurs than watch him jog around the pitch and miss both passes and shots. </p>
<p><strong>4-4-2:</strong> This match should be highlighted because David Moyes decided to come out in a 4-4-2 for the first time in recent memory. Unfortunately, the formation appeared to be some of the cause of Everton’s demise after the loss of Leon Osman and Jack Rodwell. We couldn’t manage to get any sort of control of the ball with the likes of Phil Neville and Tim Cahill in the center. David Moyes wanted to use this formation to exploit Bolton’s defensive frailties, but it was our own frailties going forward that took center stage.</p>
<p><strong>Injuries:</strong> Injuries killed us against Bolton. Phil Jagielka, Leon Osman and Jack Rodwell all went off injured. I pray that neither Jagielka nor Osman suffered long-term injury because the defense without Jagielka was awful and our midfield without Leon Osman had to rely on Phil Neville’s meager creative spark. This team needs Marouane Fellaini and Royston Drenthe to recover, and quickly.</p>
<p><strong>Man of the Match:</strong> The wind, with an assist.</p>
<p>Follow James on Twitter: www.twitter.com/jwhollis/</p>
James W. Hollis
2012-01-05T17:20:00Z
Happy New Year! ¡Feliz Año Nuevo!
A.J. Nelson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Happy-New-Year!--¡Feliz-Año-Nuevo!/467800676341237994.html
2012-01-04T18:36:00Z
2012-01-04T18:36:00Z
<p>There were some questions at the end of 2011 for Real Madrid. If they lost the last game of the season against Sevilla, then Barcelona would lead the league. Draw and Madrid would lead the league, but Barcelona would be breathing down their neck. If they won, however, they would get to enjoy a relaxing break knowing that they are three points ahead of Barcelona, a full game. However, there was a pesky Sevilla side standing in the way, boasting only one loss at the Sánchez Pizjuán and holding Barcelona to a scoreless draw at the Camp Nou.</p>
<p>Madrid would eventually find their way clear with an uncomfortable 6-2 win against Sevilla. The score did not reflect the type of game it was. Sevilla pressed but odd calls (for and against both teams) led Los Blancos to the win and three points clear heading in to the winter break. </p>
<p>2012 started on Tuesday with a Copa del Rey game against Malaga (led by a familiar face, former coach Manuel Pellegrini), but the new year did not start the way Madridistas would have hoped. If you didn’t realize that, it only took one look on José Mourinho’s face as he headed down the tunnel at half to understand he was less than pleased with his team’s start. A two goal deficit at half at the Bernabeu was not a part of his new year’s resolutions! </p>
<p>Mourinho, not sitting back and waiting to see how his team came out, made significant changes at half – shockingly using all three substitutions: Mesut Özil for Kaká, Karim Benzema for José Callejón, and Sami Khedira for Álvaro Arbeloa. The changes would have an immediate impact. Madrid’s offense was livelier in the first few minutes with the infusion of Özil and Benzema, although their defense looked shakier with the loss of Arbeloa. </p>
<p>There was a lull in play from about the 52<sup>nd</sup> minute until the 68<sup>th</sup>, although there were chances for both sides, watching this game late in the evening, caused yawns to occur. But suddenly, an unlikely goal scorer, Sami Khedira, found the back of the net. Then, before the fans could sit back down, a horrible back pass by Malaga gave Gonzalo Higuain the space to draw things level.</p>
<p>There was no looking back for Madrid. Karim Benzema would score a lovely goal off some quick passing in the 77<sup>th</sup> minute, sealing the win. The Copa del Rey is two legs, so Malaga still have a chance to turn things around at home on January 10th. However, Malaga will need a win, something only a few teams have been able to find at home or away against Madrid.</p>
<p>Happy New Year! ¡Feliz Año Nuevo!</p>
A.J. Nelson
2012-01-04T18:36:00Z
Liver n' Onions: Bellamy Blasts Back
Nash Larson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Liver-n-Onions:-Bellamy-Blasts-Back/932185462733218709.html
2012-01-03T02:23:00Z
2012-01-03T02:23:00Z
<p>Emerging from the holiday season a slight bit heavier, I recollect on the football feast that has taken place weeks prior to the new year. The holiday season is always a crowded one, where depths of squads and the fitness levels of players are tested. As for the Red side of Merseyside, Liverpool faced a schedule that pitted them against manageable opposition, only to emerge with a draw 0-0 draw against Wigan, and a one all with Blackburn. Hardly the Christmas/Hanukkah wish of the Liverpool fan. Liverpool is a team that of late has struggled to put chances away, and when Liverpool faced Newcastle United on Friday they would be without leading scorer Luis Suarez out due to suspension. </p>
<p> One of the highest scoring fixtures in the Premier League era, former Newcastle player Andy Carroll would be looking to continue that trend leading the line for Liverpool in the Uruguayan's absence. A stop-start career since moving to Liverpool for a phenomenal fee of 35 million pounds, Carroll would relish the opportunity to sink the magpies. Having been robbed of winner last week by Blackburn's keeper Mark Bunn, Carroll's frustration continued into this game as he mustered only one real notable chance but his header rocketed back off the bar.</p>
<p> </p>
<p class="separator"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FcfW8VYbAbU/TwJmQ8KCHLI/AAAAAAAAAl8/KBk4vzOWmUA/s1600/Andy-Carroll-007.jpg"><img style="float: right;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FcfW8VYbAbU/TwJmQ8KCHLI/AAAAAAAAAl8/KBk4vzOWmUA/s400/Andy-Carroll-007.jpg" border="0" alt="" width="400" height="240" /></a></p>
<p>The two teams came into this game one point different with Newcastle sitting below Liverpool in 7th. Newcastle scored first with a freak goal headed on initially by Yohan Cabye, resulting in a ricochet off of Liverpool's Daniel Agger and into the back of the net. Oh no…here we go again I thought as a less than spectacular record at Anfield this year has left me a skeptical and bitter man. Liverpool have been the embodiment of mediocrity of this season dropping valuable points against lesser opposition. This said my woes where short-lived as Liverpool leveled via Craig Bellamy blasting a loose ball of a corner past Tim Krul in goal. Without many notable saves from either of the keepers, this game looked destined for a draw, which would have made it 5 draws in the last 6 home games for the Reds. With one of the best defenses in the Premier League, breaking down the center back pairing of Daniel Agger and Martin Skrtel has proved a tough prospect.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Solid defending paired with a lack of scoring has been the formula for the bountiful draws that the reds have incurred his season. A formula foiled as once again Craig Bellamy hit a peach free kick that dodged traffic on its way into Krul's net. Bellamy had an immense game on the wing, starting in place of Maxi Rodriguez who performed well in the 1-1 draw with Blackburn, yet dropped this weeks dropped to the bench. </p>
<p class="separator"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DPDTi0c-tro/TwJlw6dmXMI/AAAAAAAAAlk/0zQvfvDPxlY/s1600/Liverpool-Newcastle.jpg"><img style="float: left;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DPDTi0c-tro/TwJlw6dmXMI/AAAAAAAAAlk/0zQvfvDPxlY/s320/Liverpool-Newcastle.jpg" border="0" alt="" width="320" height="207" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"> Possibly the signing of the season, Newcastle's Demba Ba nearly leveled the match reaching a slide rule pass in the box which he chipped over Reina from a tight angle, but the Super Slovakian Skrtel was there to clear it off the line with emphatic style. </p>
<p> </p>
<p>Liverpool's central two of Charlie Adam and Jay Spearing operated well, with Spearing sitting the farthest back making the formation almost a 4-1-4-1 at times. Spearing was back from his Red card suspension and nearly paid the price for his tenacity again, as Cabaye straighten his leg and went studs up on a 50-50. With Newcastle deserving of being a man down, yet receiving no punishment Liverpool remained dominant in the center of the pitch. Adam was withdrawn and to the roar of fanfare from the crowd captain fantastic himself, Steven Gerrard emerged. Looking to put the injury woes of this year behind him Gerrard started the new year off right putting the game out of reach for Newcastle in the 79th minute running on to a Henderson pass and nut-megging Krul from an acute angle. Gerrard's goal made it 5 goals in his last 5 appearances against Newcastle, and now with a score of 3-1 the game was out of reach for Newcastle.</p>
<p> With the transfer window now open It's only natural that Dalgleish would look at his squad and take stock. The team has depth in most areas but with the injury sustained to Lucas and a Gerrard struggling with fitness and age, I wonder if some more reinforcements are needed. I have heard links with Fulham's Clint Dempsey, possibly looking to leave Craven Cottage in search of the next level. Versatile, hard working and an American International his introduction would be a seamless fit. American owner John Henry has brought footballing awareness to the States with his acquisition of Liverpool and with an American poster-boy of Clint Dempsey's stature, I would expect the American viewing audience to increase. Just say that the deal happened shits and giggles sake that would mean that with Landon Donovan returning to Everton on-loan, come the Merseyside Derby on February 25th we could see the best current American players face off against each other…tasty.</p>
<p> Luis Suarez is facing a possible 8 game suspension and Andy Carroll is struggling for form, plentiful draws, and a lack of goals being scored should be a sign to add another striker to the ranks. For me a loan deal might best suite the team as Craig Bellamy and Dirk Kuyt will get their chances. Rumors of swoop for Villa striker Darren Bent has graced the pages of nearly every English news publication, the last couple days and it's a rumor I welcome. The unsettled English international left Sunderland for Villa after just a short spell with the black cats, and now could be move again.</p>
<p> </p>
<p class="separator"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-idfiPYtTOpM/TwJl-9qjcbI/AAAAAAAAAlw/aaHR4s2l9oY/s1600/darren-bent_g_1809327c.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-idfiPYtTOpM/TwJl-9qjcbI/AAAAAAAAAlw/aaHR4s2l9oY/s400/darren-bent_g_1809327c.jpg" border="0" alt="" width="400" height="250" /></a></p>
<p> The eve of battle is upon us as Liverpool will face Manchester City tomorrow at the Etihad, a game that can be viewed on ESPN. Don't be surprised if you see Steven Gerrard start from the beginning, proving once again his importance to the team against Newcastle. I think Dalgleish might go with Carroll and Kuyt up top together, with Downing and Bellamy on the wings. I see a tight game that ends in a 2-2 draw with some late heroics from a Liverpool player to salvage a point. Another draw is not what we're looking for but against City at the moment I would take anything.</p>
<p> That's your Liverpool fill for the week so enjoy it like you enjoyed your mothers pumpkin pie. Stay tuned for next weeks addition of Liver n'Onions.</p>
Nash Larson
2012-01-03T02:23:00Z
January Transfers Hi-Ho Hi-ho Neymar Will...
Serie A Weekly/ L'Presidente
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/January-Transfers-Hi-Ho-Hi-ho-Neymar-Will.../-225445803098394149.html
2011-12-30T20:29:00Z
2011-12-30T20:29:00Z
Where to Neymar? I know you´ve been thinking about leaving the nest.<br /> Santos is a great club, there´s no denying it´s pedigree what with Pelé spending his entire career there, but this isn´t 1966 and a great player like yourself can´t measure himself up against the greats without playing in Europe. <br /><br /><img style="margin: 10px;" src="http://www.laligaweekly.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/neymar_holaa.jpg" alt="Neymar a La Liga purchase" width="486" height="303" /><br /><br />Some players leave too early, you know Alexandre Pato and of course Robinho, and you´re no Robinho, but you don´t want to wait until after the Brasil World Cup to move along. You´ll be 22 and it´ll still take you a few years to adjust to Europe.<br /> That said, I know you have Spain in your heart, it´s a great choice considering it´s the perfect place to showcase your skills as a player, and both Italy and England would be wrong choices at the get-go for you. So the question where to in Spain. None of the mid-range clubs can afford you I´m sad to say. It might have been nice<br /> to have seen you in Valencia black-and-white or in Atléti rojiblanco, but let´s be reasonable, there are only two real choices for a player of your Q-rating: Real Madrid and Barcelona.<br /> <br /> <strong>The Case For Barcelona </strong><br /><br />I know playing in their system calls to you, a great attacking player wants to be at a club that has the confidence to trust in its attacking players to do what their instinct tells them, or at least that´s what looking on them as they destroy your Copa Libertadores winning side tells you. It´s not a system you´ll<br /> just pick up in a couple of days, weeks, or even years. What they do may seem like instinct, but that´s from years of muscle-memory. Even Cesc Fabregas who had been away in England for most of the last decade is still a product of their academy. He and Messi were team-mates when they were still practically in diapers. It´s not that foreign players take time to adjust in Barcelona, even the greatest goal-scorer in<br /> Spanish history David Villa has struggled to maintain his prior form in a side that values the team ethic more and shies away from<br /> establishing one point of attack. It´s not personal, Pep doesn´t<br /> really hate Thierry Henry, or Zlatan Ibrahimovic either for that<br /> matter, well maybe he hates Zlatan, but it´s not personal, it´s<br /> business and the business model in Barcelona is that the system is<br /> more important than the player. Well, maybe the exception is Lionel<br /> Messi come to think of it, and that´s also a problem. Do you want to<br /> be just another in a line of players that carries the bucket so that<br /> Messi can put out the barn-fire? I didn´t think so.<br /><br /><strong>Madrid Perhaps</strong><br /> <br /> So then the obvious choice is Real Madrid, then? Not so fast. Madrid is the destination, or a destination if you want to consider that considering the fact that you want a club that you can make your own mark at, but not now. It´s not just that José Mourinho isn´t the best developer of new talent, or that like with Barcelona, another player has already won the hearts of the supporters in Cristiano Ronaldo, but it´s all of that and the act that it´s Madrid; the night-clubs and the bars will be a great distraction for a hip youngster like yourself. Forget Las Vegas, Madrid is really the city that never sleeps, neither will its press. One minute you´ll be DiStefano´s heir and the next they´ll be raking you over the coals for your wastefulness. It´s a rough landing ahead in you choose to make it yours.<br /> <br /> <br /><strong>Doing the Right Thing</strong><br /><br />Do what´s right for yourself Neymar. Take the road that your countryman Ronaldo did. I´m not saying you should go to Holland or to PSV Eindhoven specifically, the comparison is not the same because 20 years ago PSV and the Dutch League were not where they are today, but you should definitely find a club that can build with your image and you could compete on the highest stage, the Champions League stage, but not have too much pressure on your young career to have it stall before it´s barely begun. Of course, make the trek to Spain eventually, but make that your final destination. Heck even the <a href="http://www.mytopsportsbooks.com/">best online sportsbooks</a> are unsure of the final destination but in the mean-time, find a club like AS Roma which is trying to change its very Italian identity for a more Mediterranean style, or even AC Milan which is<br /> desperate for that one singular talent since Kaká left, but ignore the money that unfinished projects like PSG or even Manchester City will offer. Find a club that will grow with you, but do it quickly because your career is waiting.
Serie A Weekly/ L'Presidente
2011-12-30T20:29:00Z
Donovan Set for Merseyside Return
Casey Keirnan
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Donovan-Set-for-Merseyside-Return/418103537550643901.html
2011-12-24T14:00:00Z
2011-12-24T14:00:00Z
<div><span style="color: black; font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">
<div>Just a week after being criticized for failing to test himself against the best, Landon Donovan agreed a loan deal to take him back to English Premier League club Everton on Friday.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Former United States international and current Tottenham goalkeeper Brad Friedel hit out at Donovan recently, insisting the Los Angeles Galaxy star should have taken the plunge by moving to Europe instead of remaining in the comfort zone of Major League Soccer.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Now Donovan, 29, will suit up for the Toffees in up to nine games and will hope for a repeat of the successful loan stint he undertook in 2010.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>But some, including Friedel, will have doubts that the MLS Cup champion can again make a significant impact in one of the world’s top leagues.</div>
<div> </div>
<div> “You get a player like a Landon Donovan, who in my opinion chose to take the easy road and stay in the States,” Friedel told the BBC. “It’s much harder to ply your trade over here. The (EPL) is the best league in the world to play in, and this is where Clint Dempsey got better in my opinion. This is where he became one of the best the United States ever produced.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>“The profiling in the States sometimes is a lot more to do with sponsorships than what you actually do on the field. And listen, I’m not trying to take anything away from Landon because Landon has been absolutely magnificent for the U.S. as well. I’m just saying he gets a lot more notoriety because it’s sponsorship-driven over there.”</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Donovan will also find the squad he joins up with to be very different from its 2010 incarnation. Since the American international’s last spell at the club, the Toffees have lost midfield stalwart Mikel Arteta to Arsenal and playmaker Steven Pienaar to Tottenham, while manager David Moyes had been denied the funds needed to replenish the squad.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Everton lies in 12<sup>th</sup> place in the EPL table but is just four points clear of the relegation zone and will be determined to avoid a scrap for survival.</div>
<div> </div>
</span></div>
Casey Keirnan
2011-12-24T14:00:00Z
Suarez Is Being Sacrificed By A Hypocritical FA
Matt Switalski
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Suarez-Is-Being-Sacrificed-By-A-Hypocritical-FA/-337086405642117713.html
2011-12-21T20:11:00Z
2011-12-21T20:11:00Z
1. As a judge, I find it outrageous that the FA released its decision <br />and sentence without releasing its findings of fact. If I conducted a <br />criminal bench trial and concluded it by simply pronouncing guilty as <br />charged and immediately sentenced the defendant to prison while <br />saying, I'll give you my reasoning later, I might be out of a job <br />within 48 hours. For the life of me, I can't understand what they are <br />thinking. You have the two biggest clubs in the country involved in <br />as acrimonious a dispute as possible. You have zealous, paranoid, and <br />at times appalling fan bases ready to go nuclear, whatever the <br />decision. And you just announce it, without the supporting facts? <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><br />Shameful. What was the rush? You took this long, what's another day, <br />another week? And all it does is fuel the hatred and the conspiracy <br />mongering between the two clubs and sets of supporters. When if you <br />released a compelling finding, it could take the air out of some of <br />the bile. A shameful abdication of responsibility by the FA.<br /><br />2. I try to never criticize a judge/jury when I'm not in the room <br />with them, hearing what they heard. That's why the findings of fact <br />are so important. I don't need the transcript. Just tell me why you <br />ruled how you ruled. So I am not going to criticize the finding until <br />I read the panel's reasoning.<br /><br />3. I'm suspicious that politics are at work here. Not anti-<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><br />Liverpool, but the FA trying to make itself look good. Let me <br />explain. Does anyone really think that there is a problem in England, <br />in 2011, with racism between players on the field? Does anyone think <br />that of Suarez, or of John Terry? It's nonsense, even Evra conceded <br />that. But while the FA is raking in the plaudits from the anti-racism <br />lobby and positioning themselves as the responsible alternative to <br />Sepp Blatter, can I ask a couple of questions? How many black <br />managers does the Premier League have? How about assistant managers? <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><br />Hell, how many blacks are managing in the Championship? How many are <br />in charge of transfer policy? How many blacks even get an interview <br />for any position of power? Other than Chris Hughton, who was sent to <br />the back of the bus, am I missing anyone? I don't think so. So the <br />FA is sending the message out with this decision on Suarez that racism <br />is not tolerated in the English game. What a sick and pathetic joke. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><br />They're using Suarez, and they might use Terry to score political <br />points. I double dare you to tell them they have to adopt an <br />affirmative action program and have blacks in positions of authority <br />at the clubs within 3 years. You'll be told, it's not that simple, <br />these are complex issues, freedom of contract, the owners have the <br />right to hire who they want, etc. If I can borrow from Brian <br />Glanville and Horace Rumpole, " Pull the other one, sweetie, it's got <br />bells on it!"<br /><br />4. There's much criticism over the statement Liverpool released. Now <br />if it was me, I'd have toned it down; we're disappointed; we back our <br />player, we will appeal. However, I don't know that there is anything <br />factually untrue in their statement. Again, we have to wait to see <br />the FA's reasoning. But if it is true that Evra referenced Suarez's <br />ethnicity in an insulting way, and Evra is not being punished <br />similarly to Suarez...................then the statement wasn't strong <br />enough.<br /><br />5. As a defendant, all you want is a judge who is going to treat you <br />fairly and individually, who doesn't care what the papers are going to <br />say the next morning and isn't looking to play to the crowd. A <br />principled judge is often all that stands between an unpopular <br />defendant and the mob. This is most important in the sentencing <br />phase. A judge knows what will play well in the papers. It's not <br />necessarily what is the right thing, the right and just sentence is <br />often a potentially unpopular one. But the good judges are the ones <br />who don't care about the editorial pages, headlines and talk shows. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><br />They do what's right and they do what's proportional to the crime. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><br />There aren't many of those judges out there who are willing to take <br />that kind of heat. It's easier to play to the crowd.<br /><br />I ask you, in terms of the sentencing, which kind of judge do you <br />think Suarez had? One interested in merely the players involved and <br />the individual situation, or one looking to how the ruling would play <br />with the press?<br /><br />6. Suarez is one of the 5 or 10 best players in the world, but he's <br />no angel. And he'll still have the Fulham issue to deal with. But <br />the FA took a very nuanced situation and have issued a draconian ban <br />to make themselves look good, when they care nothing about taking real <br />measures to combat the passive racism practiced by every club in the <br />top two flights. You'll forgive me if, while the FA basks in the glow <br />of the media treatment of its "courageous and landmark" decision, I <br />reach for the air sick bag.<br />
Matt Switalski
2011-12-21T20:11:00Z
How far can Arsenal and Chelsea go in the Champions League?
Thomas Rooney
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/How-far-can-Arsenal-and-Chelsea-go-in-the-Champions-League/830038151044547783.html
2011-12-21T20:06:00Z
2011-12-21T20:06:00Z
<p>And as soon as they were announced, even those more used to <a href="http://www.playbaccarat.com/">online baccarat</a> would have felt even more comfortable about the chances of United. Manchester City probably had the toughest group and it was always going to be a challenge for them to qualify on their competition début.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>As it turned out, however, neither had enough to make it through their group in the end, and instead it was just Chelsea and Arsenal left to carry the hopes of a nation. Two clubs with precisely zero European (Champions League) titles to their name. Without wanting to be a prophet of doom – that does not exactly instil the greatest amount of faith in the chances of 2012 seeing an English winner.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Perhaps I am being a little harsh here. Both of these sides are very capable on the European stage, and although you might not want to pin your hopes on them based on history, they will certainly feel they have as good a chance as anyone of winning it.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Unlike Bayern Munich and Barcelona, neither Chelsea or Arsenal are expected to win their domestic league at a stroll. In fact, you could argue that both of them are already out of contention. That leaves the Champions League as the best piece of silverware either of them could hold out any hope of winning, so perhaps they will now put their all into that. Ask any of their fans – that will be the one they really want right now.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><a href="http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-2074965/Arsenal-v-AC-Milan-Chelsea-v-Napoli--Champions-League-16-draw.html">Looking at their draws for the last 16</a>, neither of them have been given impossible challenges. Arsenal face AC Milan, who will be tough to beat, yes, but Italian football is not what it once was, and they will fancy their chances. Chelsea take on Napoli – the masters of Manchester City's downfall. If Villas-Boas gets his tactics right, though, his side should have the necessary experience and quality to beat them.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The real problem they face is beating Barcelona or Real Madrid if they ever come up against them. Put simply, they are the best two sides in club football at the moment, and will surely be favourites to win the tournament. Despite this, they are both beatable, and if Chelsea or Arsenal come up against them, they must surely believe that they have what it takes to beat them.</p>
<p> </p>
Whether they will or not, remains to be seen – as does the question of whether they will even get to face them. What is true, though, is it is going to be a huge challenge to win the Champions League for these two. But who knows? They can certainly dream.
Thomas Rooney
2011-12-21T20:06:00Z
Everton 1-1 Norwich: No Manner of Luck at All
James W. Hollis
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Everton-1-1-Norwich:-No-Manner-of-Luck-at-All/646194136249320096.html
2011-12-20T16:44:00Z
2011-12-20T16:44:00Z
<p>Everton started brightly, playing some nice football with Leighton Baines and shock-inclusion Magaye Gueye linking up nicely down the left side. There were even shades of four years ago in some of the one touch passing moves that Everton created but again, there was no telling final ball to outwit John Ruddy. As has happened so many times this season, Everton’s impotency in front of goal was punished in the 28th minute when Grant Holt, surrounded by Everton defenders, dragged the ball past John Heitinga and slotted a left-footed shot off of the inside of the post to put the visitors ahead against the run of play. The goal reinforced the frustration that our fans have felt during our performances (especially at home) this season as Norwich went into half time a goal to the good.</p>
<p>The second half started as the first half finished, with Everton on the front foot, well in control of the match but utterly clueless and predictably in the attacking third. Moyes made his first change in the 61st minute as he swapped Tim Cahill for Denis Stracqualursi. Denis (we’re now on a first-name basis after his performance Saturday) had a profound impact on the game and you cannot criticize the effort he put in. He won headers, free kicks and terrorized Norwich’s back line with his physical style of play. However, the equalizer did not come until Royston Drenthe made his return to the team in the 72nd minute. With his introduction, a dull Everton sparked into life and Norwich was hanging on for their lives. In the 81st minute, Drenthe launched into another of his trademark runs into the Norwich box and scuffed a shot. Leon Osman, thinking quickly, guided the ball past John Ruddy. Ruddy was fortunate to save what would have been the go-ahead goal when Drenthe fired another scorching shot from range. The match finished 1-1. </p>
<p><strong>Talking Points:</strong> </p>
<p><strong>Team Selection:</strong> When the team news came out ahead of the match, many were surprised. I think the team selection on Saturday was brought about by a combination of injuries and frustration at our team’s ineptitude in front of goal. Neville was included in the midfield again, much to the chagrin of the set of fans who think he hurts the fluency of our play. Magaye Gueye looked bright early but appeared shattered before he was replaced in the second half (and at the end of the first half, to be fair). All in all, I think that it’s good that Moyes is trying to experiment because it’s plain to see that what he’s been doing recently hasn’t been working. Not that he’s working with solid gold or anything... </p>
<p><strong>The inside of Tim Howard’s left post</strong>: That’s two matches in a row in which the other team scored a goal off of the inside of that post. First RvP, now Grant Holt. Seriously, I’m not asking that the laws of physics be changed in Everton’s favor, but Tim Howard might appreciate a bad bounce every once in a while.</p>
<p><strong>Going behind at home: </strong>Everton traded one terrible stat (no shots on goal for more than two matches) for another one on Saturday. Everton has now taken 8 points from 8 home matches this season. How do you take only 8 points from 8 matches? You let the other team score silly goals to go ahead and allow them to shut up shot for the remainder of the game. Everton have gone behind in the first half of six of the eight home matches: QPR: 31’, United: 19’, Wigan: 31’, Wolves: 37’, Stoke: 15’, Norwich: 28’. When you have only scored 16 goals in 15 games, going a goal behind means that at the very least we’re losing the opportunity to get two of the three points available. That’s what happened again on Saturday. </p>
<p><strong>Creativity: </strong>Everton was dismally predictable before Royston Drenthe came into the game. Go down the left, swing a cross in aimed at Tim Cahill. Headed away. Go down the left, get past a defender, play a ball back to where Leon Osman is supposed to be coming in late. Cut out by the defender. Repeat. Hopefully, Landon Donovan’s return will give Everton the shot in the arm that they need and keep Drenthe from having to pull too much of the weight in terms of creativity. One or two more creative players will also make Leon Osman into the threat he became at the end of last season, he’s just not capable of doing it all on his own.<strong> </strong></p>
<p><strong>Man of the Match:</strong> Royston Drenthe. You know that the performance was dull when someone brought on in the 72nd minute is the man of the match. But, let’s be serious, we would’ve lost at home to another promoted team on Saturday if Royston Drenthe hadn’t played. As such, he gets my man of the match and I hope he’s fit enough to play from the start against Swansea, we need his unpredictability and his turn of pace. </p>
Wednesday sees Everton welcoming the third and final promoted team, Swansea, to Goodison Park. Swansea plays a more swashbuckling passing style and should be an interesting test.
James W. Hollis
2011-12-20T16:44:00Z
And the Good News Keeps on Coming
Joseph Zucker
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/And-the-Good-News-Keeps-on-Coming/-848808793928511573.html
2011-12-16T06:54:00Z
2011-12-16T06:54:00Z
As I’ve said all season, you cannot try to apply reason to Atlético Madrid this season, and really anytime ever. So I don’t know why I’m so surprised that Gregorio Manzano is still at the helm. It’s quite the turnaround from a club that burns through at least one manager every season. I mean, Kim Kardashian has longer marriages than are the managerial stints at the Calderón.<br /> <br /> It’s safe to say that things haven’t exactly gone to plan this year for Atlético Madrid. They are floundering in La Liga. Although they sit in 10th place, they are only 4 points off the drop. The rumors were that Manzano had three matches to prove his worth as manager, but that was about a month ago. Following the loss in the Madrid derby, it appeared his days were numbered. I can only imagine that Madrid newspapers are keeping an article on file in the event of his sacking the same way papers keep obituaries for celebrities who are on death's door.<br /> <a name="more"></a><br /> Wins against Celtic and Rayo Vallecano only offered Manzano a stay of execution.<br /> <br /> Then, it hit the fan with a 2-1 loss to Albacete in the Copa del Rey. Granted they have another leg to guarantee advancement, the embarrassment of losing to a Segunda Division B side can’t be overstated. The Atlético B squad made enough of an effort to force a draw with Albacete in the end of October. <br /> As if the Copa del Rey defeat wasn’t enough, this was followed up by an equally dreadful performance against Espanyol in a 4-2 loss. Atleti surrendered 3 goals in the first 19 minutes of the match. I know there’s the saying that scoring too early can be problematic, but I don’t think there’s ever a wrong timeframe in which to score 3 goals.<br /> <br /> Apparently, Manzano has been given until at least Christmas to try and turn things around. The likelihood of him actually doing that is about the same of Santa Claus himself lining up as the #9 for Atleti. Although it can’t be argued that Mr. Claus isn’t a fervent supporter of Atlético Madrid, what with his red and white suit, not so coincidentally the same colors of Atleti.<br /> <br /> It’s only fair to look at the cases both for and against Gregorio Manzano.<br /> <br /> Quite possibly the biggest thing in his favor is the fact that no one seems to want this job. Rafa Benitez has been highly sought after by the higher-ups at Atlético, but time and time again, Rafa has rebuffed their advances. It’s not really hard to see why. At Liverpool, he constantly complained about the ownership situation and how it adversely affected the club. You can’t really see him taking a job in which the owners are quite possibly worse than the Hicks/Gillett debacle. <br /> <br /> Luis Aragones has been thrown around a little, and while he is an Atleti legend, I don’t really see him taking the job, either. Probably the most likely option is Diego Simeone. He has said that he would like to manage Atlético, but only 41 years old, he doesn’t bring a lot of experience to the table. <br /> It’s not as if there is a throng of prospective managers flocking to the Spanish capital to walk the touchline at the Calderón. Right now, Manzano is the surest thing Atlético has when it comes to managers. If they sack him without a firm backup plan, the club would be in an even worse situation.<br /> <br /> For all of his domestic struggles, Manzano has at least had success in Europe. With a win over Stade Rennes on Thursday, Atleti qualified for the knockout stages of the Europa League at the top of Group I. It was no easy feat either, considering the group included Rennes, Celtic and Udinese. Qualification to the knockout stages was more than Quique Sanchez Flores could bring the club last year after winning the title in 2010. I think that supporters would definitely trade another European title for a few spots in La Liga.<br /> <br /> The case against Gregorio Manzano is quickly gaining more and more evidence in its favor.<br /> When you look at the club’s struggles in the league, you need to only look at one driving factor: the away record. Atleti has managed to only pick up a single draw in seven away matches so far. That lone draw came against 15th place Granada. Granted the away schedule hasn’t been the most friendly, with early season meetings with Valencia, Barcelona and Athletic Bilbao, for a club that wants to compete for a Champions League place, you have to expect to pick up points away from home.<br /> <br /> There has been no consistency with the squad. They take one step forward and one step back. They follow up a 1-0 loss to Valencia with back-to-back 4-0 victories over Sporting Gijon and Racing Santander. Atleti follows up those wins with a 5-0 drubbing to Barcelona. What could be a match that lights a fire under the squad, a hard-fought win over Levante is met with a 4-1 defeat to Madrid. Atlético hasn’t been able to build up any momentum whatsoever.<br /> <br /> Quite possibly the biggest problem with Manzano is the fact that the club just looks absolutely listless. No one on the club has really stepped up as a leader. If Atlético goes down a goal, you have 11 faces all looking at each wondering what they are going to do next. There’s just no fight in the squad, no pride in the crest. It’s one thing if a team is struggling, but fighting the entire time. There’s something to be said for a manager whose team is always willing to give everything until the final whistle. But that isn’t present right now. It appears that Manzano has lost the dressing room completely. It’s obvious that José Reyes’ head is elsewhere. Manzano has frozen him out of the squad and his bags are already packed for Turkey. It just takes one malcontent to ruin an entire squad, though. And it’s not as if Reyes is chopped liver. He was arguably Atleti’s most consistent player last year, and while he hasn’t been great this year, he was still looked upon as a leader in the team.<br /> <br /> Either way, whether Manzano stays or goes, it’s hard to see anyone turning around Atlético Madrid. But then again, always expect the unexpected with these guys.
Joseph Zucker
2011-12-16T06:54:00Z
The Agony and the Ecstasy
A.J. Nelson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/The-Agony-and-the-Ecstasy/406324101705894009.html
2011-12-14T19:31:00Z
2011-12-14T19:31:00Z
<p>The Barcelona faithful will tell you that they are always going to be better than Madrid. The Madrid faithful will likely point to the fact that this is one game out of a long season. Whatever side you choose, each El Clásico game is and will continue to be a classic.</p>
<p>As an American born, Liverpool fan, who always thought the Barclay’s Premier League was the dominant league, this game used to mean nothing to me, but once I was introduced to La Liga, there was no turning back. I heard all of the reasons not to like Madrid, but watching Raúl lead his club, even if they weren’t winning, sealed it for me. The addition of Xabi Alonso and Álvaro Arbeloa from Liverpool, devastating on one front, was the icing on the cake on the other.</p>
<p>This first edition of El Clásico started so well for Los Blancos. At 23 seconds, the Madridistas at the Santiago Bernabéu, who had barely sat down, were suddenly standing and screaming with excitement. Karim Benzema had scored the opener on a Victor Valdés error. It was the fastest goal in El Clásico history. Barcelona was going down!</p>
<p>A strike from Alexis Sanchez, however, tamed those wild thoughts of victory as he tied the match in the 29<sup>th</sup> minute. Even thousands of miles away, you could sense the tension in the air at the Bernabéu. The game remained level until halftime, but the uncharacteristically sloppy Barcelona team from the first few minutes of the game had reverted to the team that won the Champions League and La Liga last year. At the 53<sup>rd</sup> minute, Barcelona took the lead which forced Madrid to go on the offensive, leaving themselves exposed at the back. Madrid would get further chances, as would Barcelona, but a 66<sup>th</sup> minute goal by Cesc Fàbregas would make a comeback extremely challenging. </p>
<p>In the end, the comeback would not be there. Kaká would come on for Mesut Özil, Sami Khedira for Lass Diarra and Gonzalo Higuain for Ángel Di María, but it would not be enough and the scoreboard at the end of the game would show Real Madrid 1 – Barcelona 3.</p>
<p>There was no denying this game was important for Barcelona. Being six points off of Madrid would have been a challenging place to come back from. Barcelona knew it wasn’t a do-or-die situation, however. This was only the first of two games this season, there are a lot of games to play in La Liga and the second game is in their house and they don’t lose at the Camp Nou. </p>
<p>This weekend has now become more important for Real Madrid, however. Barcelona’s game in hand will become obsolete once Madrid faces Sevilla on Saturday. If Madrid wins, they retake a solid three point lead in La Liga. If they lose, Barcelona will hold the top spot and likely become more motivated than ever to hold on to that lead.</p>
<p>For now, the Madridistas are left to ponder the obvious questions. What if they had…? Could they have…? Should they have…? However, those questions will have to hold until April 21. 128 days and counting… ¡Hala Madrid!<br /><br /><em>A.J. Nelson can be found on Twitter @FootieObsessed</em></p>
A.J. Nelson
2011-12-14T19:31:00Z
Premier League Recap (December 10-12)
Adam Johnson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Premier-League-Recap-December-10-12/519952717346676602.html
2011-12-12T21:53:00Z
2011-12-12T21:53:00Z
<p>This weekend’s action got better with time. Monday’s Chelsea v. Man City clash was the highlight but there was sending offs, managerial debuts, and great goals in the other nine matches.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Manchester United 4-1 Wolves</span></p>
<p>A bounce back game with four goals is exactly what United needed against lowly Wolves on Saturday. Nani gave the Red Devils the lead after 17 minutes and Wayne Rooney doubled that lead just 10 minutes later. Early in the second half, Steven Fletcher scored on a header to pull one back for Wolves. However, another goal from Nani and another from Rooney made it two for each of them and four for the team.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Liverpool 1-0 QPR</span></p>
<p>A 1-0 win after a 1-0 loss on Monday was just fine with Kenny Dalglish. Luis Suarez, Maxi Rodriguez, and co. attacked and attacked the QPR goal and Suarez was finally rewarded in the second half with a header that would prove to be the winner.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Bolton 1-2 Aston Villa</span></p>
<p>Bolton, again, just cannot buy a win. They went down early on a Marc Albrighton goal and just a few minutes later Stilyan Petrov made it two. There were boos all around the Reebok but Bolton came out better in the second half. Ivan Klasnic made it 2-1 ten minutes into that second frame but a second goal never came.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Arsenal 1-0 Everton</span></p>
<p>The historic North London club was celebrating their 125<sup>th</sup> anniversary this weekend and they got the win on this historic day with a historic volley from none other than their captain, Robin van Persie. Theo Walcott made a couple of chances but the match remained 0-0 until the 70’ minute when an Alex Song lifted ball met RVP, who hit a volley that was the stuff of legend.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Norwich 4-2 Newcastle</span></p>
<p>Some people feel that this was the time when Newcastle would fall off after their great start. They played City, United, and Chelsea in succession and only took a point out of those three matches so Norwich, one would think, was a great match to bounce back. Unfortunately, though, Norwich were on their A game and took the lead when Wes Hoolahan scrambled it over the line. Demba Ba scored after a great over the top pass from Yohan Cabaye to make it 1-1 at halftime. Grant Holt would get the lead back for Norwich and Steve Morrison doubled it on a fine header. Dan Gosling was then sent off for the Magpies but Ba scored again to make it 3-2. It was Grant Holt who would finish it off with another score as Norwich got their most impressive win of the season.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Swansea 2-0 Fulham</span></p>
<p>It was not Clint Dempsey’s day as he deflected Scott Sinclair’s shot into the net to give Swansea the lead and then had his penalty saved by Michel Vorm in the 87’<sup> </sup>minute. Danny Graham added another to get all three points for the Swans.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">West Brom 1-2 Wigan</span></p>
<p>Wigan got only their second away win of the season after coming back from a 1-0 deficit on a Steven Reid free kick. Victor Moses got the equalizer and Jordi Gomez the winner on a penalty.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Sunderland 2-1 Blackburn</span></p>
<p>This was Martin O’Neill’s first full match in charge at Sunderland and his reign started with a bang. Simon Vukcevic gave Blackburn the lead though and it looked grim at the Stadium of Light. Paul Robinson kept Blackburn in it but no keeper in the world could have kept out David Vaughan’s blast. That strike leveled it with six minutes to go and then a Mauro Formica hand ball set up a free kick in a dangerous position for Sunderland. Seb Larsson stepped up and tucked it home to give O’Neill a dramatic first win. The roar around the stadium was electric.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Stoke 2-1 Tottenham</span></p>
<p>The same man who robbed Chelsea earlier this season, referee Chris Foy, robbed Spurs in this game. Stoke came out very strong and dominated the first 20 minutes. Matthew Etherington got a goal to justify the play but Tottenham started to settle in. Etherington would grab another, though, after a scramble in the box. In the second half Tottenham continued to play well and eventually got one back when Glen Whelan brought down Luka Modric. Emmanuel Adebayor scored from the spot. An equalizer looked likely and Spurs should have had one when first Ryan Shawcross elbowed a ball off the line and just after that Adebayor was wrongly ruled offside as he scored. Yunus Kaboul was then sent off and the legs of every player were heavy as this wild match wound down. 2-2 would have been fair but it ends 2-1 to Stoke.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Chelsea 2-1 Manchester City</span></p>
<p>The marquee match of the weekend was saved for last. Man City came in without a loss in the league yet but has just been knocked out of the Champions League. The away side controlled the first part of the game and Mario Balotelli got a goal out of it when Sergio Aguero played him in beautifully. Stamford Bridge was up for this one and Chelsea showed their thanks with an equalizing goal when Daniel Sturridge’s run and cross led to a Raul Miereles tap in. Neither team made too many chances, as this was a midfield battle that saw seven total cards shown. Gael Clichy was sent off for his second yellow 15 minutes before Frank Lampard was brought on as a sub. Sturridge was again involved when the arm of Joleon Lescott blocked his shot in the box. Penalty to Chelsea and Lampard left no doubt as he smashed it in. It would prove to be the winner as City just ran out of gas and suffered their first league loss of the season.</p>
<p>This week’s team of the week goes to Sunderland for their epic swing in new boss, Martin O’Neill’s first game in charge. The goals from Vaughan and Larsson were both contenders for goal of the week. Player of the week goes to Nani for his excellent performance, which United needed to see, against Wolves. Man City stays top, but not by much.</p>
Adam Johnson
2011-12-12T21:53:00Z
Rossoblu Fight to Draw
Mark Milburn
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Rossoblu-Fight-to-Draw/-631267465230392246.html
2011-12-12T17:49:00Z
2011-12-12T17:49:00Z
Marco Di Vaio continued his resurgent form in Bologna’s 2-2 with Serie A giants Milan. Di Vaio opened the scoring for Bologna when he got on the end of a lobbed through ball and chipped goalkeeper Amelia. Milan struck back with a goal from Clearance Seedorf who fired a shot from outside the box. Marco Di Vaio would hit the post before Bologna were wrongfully denied a penalty just before half time. Replays show that Clarence Seedorf clearly handled the ball in the box, but Bologna were denied of going ahead just before half time.
<p>Bologna continued to frustrate Milan in the second half before Milan were controversially given a penalty in the 70<sup>th</sup> minute when Ibrahimovic went down easy in the area. Big Zlatan went on to put the penalty away to put Milan in front. The lead did not last long as moments later Alessandro Diamanti struck the ball from outside the box past Amelia to make it 2-2. The goalkeeper should have done better, but Diamanti did well to get off the strike with his opposite foot.</p>
<p>The result was a little harsh on Bologna who should have come away with the three points. The Rossablu will have taken a point at the start of the game and it’s a point that takes them further away from the relegation zone. Marco Di Vaio seems to have regained his form with 3 goals in his last 3 matches which has yielded 5 points for his side. Milan dropped to 3<sup>rd</sup> in the table 2 points behind Udinese and level on points with Lazio. Next up for Bologna is Genoa away, while Milan host Siena.</p>
Mark Milburn
2011-12-12T17:49:00Z
Arsenal 1-0 Everton: Why Can't David Moyes Turn Iron into Gold?!
James W. Hollis
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Arsenal-1-0-Everton:-Why-Cant-David-Moyes-Turn-Iron-into-Gold!/-92952665662303871.html
2011-12-10T18:45:00Z
2011-12-10T18:45:00Z
<p>Arsenal hosted Everton for their 125th anniversary match on Saturday. Given the way that I am haunted by the 6-1 defeat on opening day ’09-‘10 (the sordid ‘Lescott Affair’) and the mood around the camp following the Stoke defeat, I thought today was going to be a Robin van Persie-fueled incineration of Everton’s team at the Emirates. Fortunately, the beat down that I feared did not materialize, but what occurred did nothing to dampen the feelings of foreboding doom and frustration that Everton’s form has inspired this season.</p>
<p>Everton came out looking to play positively and might have had a couple of opportunities to score had our crossing not been sub-par. Baines’ corners were particularly bad today (must have caught whatever set play disease Arteta has) and Bily decided to airmail a cross from a good position over to Gervinho for a quick counter attack. The most worrying thing about the first half was the high line that Everton was playing. Everton is not currently a team that is blessed with pace, especially at the back (except for Distin, who was on the bench, but I’ll come to that), which meant that Gervinho and Walcott were flying past our outside backs into dangerous positions. Fortunately, they kept attempting difficult passes instead of shooting (walking it in?). Arsenal kept up sustained pressure near the end of the half but that came to naught and the teams went back into the changing rooms locked at 0-0 (with Wenger looking more like a brooding hen than usual).</p>
<p>Little changed at the beginning of the second half. Arsenal had most of the game but was unable to capitalize on their dominance because their final pass was lacking and, to be fair, Everton’s back line was having a particularly good game. Then, at the 64’ mark, Moyes brought Sylvain Distin on for Louis Saha. Rather than slotting Distin in between Jagielka and Heitinga (which would have been more amusing), Heitinga was shifted into the midfield (collective gasp, Heitinga and Neville together). Remarkably, Everton actually started taking the game to Arsenal a bit more after ‘the most negative substitution possible in the circumstances short of bringing in a second goalkeeper’. Predictably, an Everton resurgence meant that Arsenal were primed for a goal, which came from a world class finish from Robin van Persie and everyone watching thought, “Game Over.” And, it really was.</p>
<p>Moyes brought in youngster (and hair model) Conor McAleny in for Phil Neville and Magaye Gueye for Diniyar Bilyaletdinov. Both of the substitutes had shots that could have saved a point for Everton but it was not to be and Everton fell to a sixth defeat in eight games, recording a second straight match without a single shot on target.</p>
<p><strong>Talking Points:</strong></p>
<p><strong>Strikers: </strong>Louis Saha had today penciled in on his calendar as a ’60 minute jog’. He didn’t chase down balls, he didn’t put pressure on Arsenal defenders, and he passed poorly. It’s always been said of Saha that he does not like to play when he is not feeling fully fit and that is what we were dealing with today. A couple of weeks ago I said that our team needs a striker with more of a work rate and I stand by that. Louis’ recent performances have had me pining for Victor Anichebe’s return (cringe). As for the zero shots on goal in two matches, some of it is down to poor service and some of it has been down to hapless play from our strikers (Tim Cahill included).<strong> </strong></p>
<p><strong>Substitutions: </strong>The Moyes-out troupe swelled predictably after the introduction of Distin for Saha. I’m not going to try to defend it because I thought that it was a laughable decision. However, I think Moyes did it for two reasons. First, he was sending a message to Saha that he was doing so little that having another defender on the field would do more good for the team. Second, Everton’s substitutes bench was made up of four children, one bad goalkeeper, and a terrifying-looking Argentinian striker (who isn’t Carlos Tevez). For me, I would have rather our joint top-scorer Vellios come on (I’ve heard he is carrying an injury?) but what’s done is done.</p>
<p><strong>Injuries Ravaging the Smallest Squad in the League? </strong>At the beginning of the season, Everton had the smallest senior squad in the Premier League (when it still included Joe Yobo). We currently have twelve senior players who are uninjured. Many people jumped on David Moyes’ back for the decisions today and, sure, he’s been really negative and some of his decisions recently have been poor. However, it must be taken in equal measure that his options have been catastrophically limited this season. You can argue that Ross Barkley and Vellios should play more, but you still have to realize that both of these options are youngsters and, as such, are inconsistent and can be dangerous liabilities for a squad that’s floundering around the bottom of the Premier League. The blame for the deterioration of our squad from the past few seasons should be placed at the doorstep of our fan-chairman Bill Kenwright. His stunning lack of resources has forced the sale of so many of the diamonds that David Moyes plucked from the rough. No manager can compete week in and week out against strong Premier League opponents with the threadbare squad that we currently field.</p>
<p><strong>Man of the Match: </strong>Though tempted to say Bill Kenwright, I’m going to go with Tim Howard, he was great today and had no chance against that van Persie strike. Also, his new Landon Donovan-esque beard is practically a new signing, right?</p>
<p>Next up for our beloved Blues is Norwich, who just bested Newcastle 4-2, at Goodison. They are three points above us in the table and have apparently mustered seven more shots on goal than Everton has in the past two matches.</p>
<p>For more of my holiday cheer, follow me on twitter: www.twitter.com/jwhollis</p>
James W. Hollis
2011-12-10T18:45:00Z
England In Amongst It
Craig Miller
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/England-In-Amongst-It/305673756975907343.html
2011-12-09T15:31:00Z
2011-12-09T15:31:00Z
<p>As a country England are renowned for bottling it in competitions, we’ve all felt the ups and downs, the highs and lows and massive heart ache in recent times. If England were to lift the cup and show the passion and commitment expected, it will be easy to reconnect with the overpaid pre-Madonna's that have distanced themselves from fans.</p>
<p>It is guaranteed as far as many <a href="http://www.sportingways.com/">football betting tips</a> are concerned that England’s travelling army will be out in numbers as they always are at International tournaments. Fans and players alike will be hoping for success in the tournament which four years ago saw then manager Steve McLaren fail to even qualify.</p>
<p>As the groups for Euro 2012 have now been drawn and England ending 2011 unbeaten, the squad should be full of confidence heading into the New Year.</p>
<p>Those who <a href="http://www.bet1015.com/"><strong>bet money</strong></a> on international football note how France are the first team to face England in the summer and offer the greatest talent in the group, but nothing for England to be too concerned about, should they turn up.</p>
<p>Home nation Ukraine is the final game for England and could be the difference between qualification and failure at the first hurdle. The home nation’s are renowned for being galvanised by their support in tournaments in recent times, France (98), Japan (02) and Portugal (04). On a personal note I hope England are through by the time the June 19<sup>th</sup> comes around.</p>
<p>Looking outside of the group it is going to be a case of the usual suspects for those who will have the biggest impact on the tournament. Current World and European Champions have to and will be considered favourites to re-lift the trophy, despite being beaten by England a month ago. Group B, the group of death will see at least one big footballing nation exit the competition prematurely, on paper Portugal but rule them out at your peril, with Cristiano Ronaldo being the driving force behind their potential success they will be a constant threat.</p>
<p>Should England fancy their chances at lifting the trophy there are a lot of fixtures to play between the game with France June 11<sup>th</sup> and a potential final on July 1<sup>st</sup>. Outside of the fixtures, the location of England’s camp has raised eyebrows as the players will be expected to travel over 10,000 miles in order to stay at their Ukrainian camp, whilst their games are played in Poland.</p>
<p>This in mind I believe the Football Association should relocate to one of the available camps in Ukraine to reduce travelling times and removing it as a potential excuse.</p>
Craig Miller
2011-12-09T15:31:00Z
Liver n' Onions: Flippin the Bird at Fulham
Nash Larson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Liver-n-Onions:-Flippin-the-Bird-at-Fulham/906585864103999014.html
2011-12-09T04:33:00Z
2011-12-09T04:33:00Z
<p>"Ay dios mío Luis!" Liverpool's Uruguayan cannot stay out of the headlines of late. Not for the right reasons some might say, but I wouldn't say necessarily for the bad. The racism claim by Patrice Evra I can not speak upon really, for I don't know what really happened. Yet on in Monday's fixture against Fulham, Luis Suarez flipped the bird in the direction of the Fulham fans and that for me shows his drive.</p>
<p> There is no hiding that Suarez is emotional, he's bloody South American. When results don't go his way he acts like a child that has dropped his sweets, moaning, rolling on the floor and banging the pitch in anger. People call him a diver, but he is no more a diver than any other speedy, skillful forward out there. Remember when that Ronaldo fellow played for United…say that he was not ten times worse. Look at Drogba, he's ridiculous, seen some years ago having a diving competition with then Arsenal goalkeeper Jens Lehmann…disgraceful. When I watch his antics I feel secure because it shows what the results mean to him. Looking back to Fernando Torres' demeanor in his final days at Anfield, he couldn't be bothered. Suarez's drive to win is unparalleled, and I like it. I won't say that giving Fulham's fans the finger is necessarily appropriate behavior but it doesn't bother me. The FA looks to charge the Uruguayan, but not from strong opposition from his manager. People have been comparing it to Rooney's outburst at T.V.cameras last year, an offense that saw him suspended for two games. Dalgleish's commented on this in the The Guardian by saying,</p>
<p> </p>
<p class="separator"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iCvA4uA7sc8/TuGNWLYN33I/AAAAAAAAAk0/8KhHFGF1BD4/s1600/Luis-gesture415.jpg"><img style="float: right;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iCvA4uA7sc8/TuGNWLYN33I/AAAAAAAAAk0/8KhHFGF1BD4/s320/Luis-gesture415.jpg" border="0" alt="" width="320" height="229" /></a>"I don't see any similarities between the two incidents at all, saying they are a bit like each other is like saying a man is a bit like a woman. We have picked out at least four other instances that were just the same and the players were not charged. All we are asking for is some clarity on the matter."</p>
<p> The Uruguayans action was thoroughly justified after the frustration felt by all during Monday's game. We once again revisited the issue of dropping points to a team we should be beating. Fulham are no pushovers but in the grand spectrum of Liverpool we should be beating them. The omission of Lucas Leiva due to injury was evident, as young Jay Spearing took the helm in the middle of the park. This slightly blew up in our face, as in the 72nd minute Spearing dove in on Moussa Dembele, taking the ball cleanly, yet taking the player with his trailing leg. The replacement Midfielder saw a straight red for "dangerous play," as Dembele crumpled to the floor. The match commentator was as taken a-back as I was, saying that he was just about the call it a good ol' fashion tackle. What looked to be one of those good ol' fashioned ones, ended up being a straight red offense for referee Kevin Friend. Soft decision, but then again it's not to different from the tackle that saw Everton's Jack Rodwell sent off for in the Merseyside derby. This offense by Spearing earned Liverpool another charge from the FA requiring disciplinary action, as the tackle was deemed as reckless…excuse me while I chuckle over that. </p>
<p class="separator"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-V75FhrT8XwM/TuGNz18uOpI/AAAAAAAAAk8/-w9hdUEvplE/s1600/_57145523_spearingred.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-V75FhrT8XwM/TuGNz18uOpI/AAAAAAAAAk8/-w9hdUEvplE/s400/_57145523_spearingred.jpg" border="0" alt="" width="400" height="241" /></a></p>
<p> Clint Dempsey won the game for Fulham in the 85th minute capitalizing on a 10-men Liverpool, after a blistering shot from Danny Murphy was fumbled by Reina in goal. This 1-0 win moves Fulham into 13th place, as Liverpool now sit in 7th. Fun fact: Liverpool have hit the post five times more than any other team in the Premier League, shots from Downing and Henderson made it 12 times on the season. Liverpool will be known as "The Red's" no more, from now in they will be called " The Postmen." </p>
<p> </p>
<p class="separator"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qqEPWOoeWjM/TuGOK8DPTuI/AAAAAAAAAlE/VTnxgohxpX0/s1600/tnt-postman--flkr-FaceMePLS.jpg"><img style="float: right;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qqEPWOoeWjM/TuGOK8DPTuI/AAAAAAAAAlE/VTnxgohxpX0/s320/tnt-postman--flkr-FaceMePLS.jpg" border="0" alt="" width="320" height="162" /></a>Unable to score, Liverpool will always be susceptible to letting one in and that is exactly what they did. Having just signed Suarez and Carroll and Bellamy, I ask with the January transfer window fast approaching if John Henry and Fenway Sports Group need to empty their piggy-banks again and shell out the clams for another striker. A Loan deal maybe….like a Lukaku from Chelsea, someone of that ilk. A fresh new signing especially a proven goal scorer might be a bit much at the moment but the ball needs to be put in the net, no-sooner than QPR this weekend. Ball in net proving a difficult equation for the Merseyside club, and it looks like we need a mathematician to solve it.</p>
If you'd like more check out spotkickjournalism.blogspot.com
<p> </p>
Nash Larson
2011-12-09T04:33:00Z
Everton 0-1 Stoke: Everton's Nightmare Scenario
James W. Hollis
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Everton-0-1-Stoke:-Evertons-Nightmare-Scenario/917750440602185051.html
2011-12-06T16:47:00Z
2011-12-06T16:47:00Z
<p>The match against Stoke on Sunday was the nightmare scenario for Everton. Everton struggles at the best of times against teams that go out to keep it tight at the back. This problem is made worse when that team neutralizes our set pieces with dirty defending. Add that to a referee who puts a blindfold on whenever the ball is in Stoke’s penalty area and Everton has little hope of scoring. Everton faced this nightmare at Goodison Park on Sunday. </p>
<p>For the first fifteen minutes the match looked like it was going to be a dominant performance by Everton. We had all the possession, were playing good football and looked to be out to create some chances despite poor final balls from Bily. Then, like it always seems to happen, Stoke score on their first corner, with an unmarked Huth tapping past Howard from an unchallenged Dean Whitehead blast. After that, the game didn’t really change though, as Everton were still easily on top but could not turn possession into any good scoring chances. </p>
<p>The second half started much the same way, with Everton dominating before Stoke came back into the game. To quell Stoke’s resurgence, Moyes brought in Jack Rodwell for the Bily (who really seems to struggle against physical defenses). The minutes after Rodwell came on were mired by the injury to Thomas Sorenson. Sorenson appeared to be concussed after his head collided with Tim Cahill’s thigh in a challenge (penalty shout). Yet, Sorenson remained on the field for a few more minutes before sinking to his knee and being taken off by a stretcher.</p>
<p>Vellios, who looked outmatched today against Huth and Shawcross, was the next to make way for Denis Stracqualursi as Everton pushed harder and harder for an equalizer. David Moyes even took off Tony Hibbert and played three at the back for the final few minutes. However, all of this was to no avail as Everton refused to turn any of the numerous opportunities into real chances. The best opportunity to equalize came through John Heitinga who was inches off of connecting with a cross from a short corner (and then unleashed his fury at failing on the net inside Stoke’s goal). </p>
<p><strong>Talking Points:</strong> </p>
<p><strong>Lee Mason:</strong> You can’t understand the match today without understanding how poor Lee Mason was. His decisions defied logic at times. To name a few of Mason’s glut of ridiculous calls: a Leon Osman foul on a diving Peter Crouch, a Tim Cahill foul after he’s been thrown off of the field by two Stoke defenders, two nasty sliding challenges on Seamus Coleman that went un-penalized, and a foul on Apostolos Vellios when Robert Huth had him in a bear-hug. Mason obstinately refused to construe anything that Stoke did on set pieces as fouls. Mason even took the extra step of actually donning a blindfold for each Everton corner in the second half. I’m almost certain that Marouane Fellaini has a good case for battery against Ryan Shawcross for the way that Shawcross ‘defended’ him today. Huth was no better. It was one of the dirtiest displays I’ve ever seen and Lee Mason turned a blind eye to it. It was disgraceful refereeing and it turned a tough day for Everton into something truly infuriating. </p>
<p><strong>Tim Cahill: </strong>Tim Cahill was put through the spin cycle today by the Stoke defense. He was held, pulled, tugged, shoved, and kicked. However, he still was not himself. He looks like he’s trying too hard to score a goal. It didn’t help that he was a punching bag for Stoke but he could really use a goal for some confidence at this point as his form of late has been worrying.</p>
<p><strong>Attacking Options:</strong> David Moyes came out in the media this week and said that we didn’t have the quality striker that we need. Everton fans didn’t need to admit it. We know that we lack a quality striker. That’s why we struggle against teams like Stoke: because we don’t have anyone up top that is going to score a quality goal against an organized defense to force them out of their shell. This is why we struggled at the beginning of the season and required referees to bail us out against Blackburn, Bolton and Wolves. It’s why we’ll struggle to finish in the top half of the table. Hopefully we can do something about that in January.</p>
<p><strong>No Shots on Goal at Home, against Stoke: </strong>The most depressing statistic to come out of the match today is that Everton created no shots on goal with 67% possession and ten corners. That’s an appalling performance and it can’t all be down to the referee. We had the chance to put good balls into the box and we either didn’t put in quality crosses, couldn’t get anyone on the end or couldn’t manage to beat the cheating Stoke defenders. We’ve now lost four matches at home to QPR, Liverpool, United and Stoke. We also have a draw against Aston Villa on our conscience. Our performances have to improve because we can’t expect to get the majority of our points away from home, not with this team.</p>
<p><strong>Man of the Match:</strong> Marouane Fellaini. He was really our driving force today. You could tell he was causing a lot of trouble for Stoke with the way that they used three defenders to waylay him every time the ball came anywhere near him. You can thank Lee Mason for the fact that he didn’t score again today. </p>
<p>Up next is Arsenal at the Emirates, and I don’t fancy it if I’m honest.<br /><br />Follow me on Twitter: www.twitter.com/jwhollis<br /><br />Read more of my stuff: www.knowmersey.com </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
James W. Hollis
2011-12-06T16:47:00Z
Premier League Recap (December 3-5)
Adam Johnson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Premier-League-Recap-December-3-5/-426508897159686862.html
2011-12-06T10:41:00Z
2011-12-06T10:41:00Z
<p>City, United, Chelsea, Arsenal and Tottenham all won to keep the top five looking pretty much the same as last week. There were some lopsided victories and goal fests in this round of games. Here is how the ten matches played out.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Newcastle 0-3 Chelsea</span></p>
<p>Chelsea came in reeling and the questions over the amount of pressure Andre Villas-Boas is under keep coming. He needed a strong performance from his team away at Newcastle, which is always tough. AVB got that performance with a nice three-goal victory. David Luiz maybe should’ve been sent off early, though, for a foul on Demba Ba, but that’s football. Frank Lampard also missed a penalty but Didier Drogba eventually gave Chelsea a first half lead with an excellent header from who else, Juan Mata. Tim Krul kept the Blues out and the woodwork kept Newcastle out until Fernando Torres laid on for Salomon Kalou to score the second. Danny Sturridge was fantastic in this match and he finally got his goal in stoppage time for Chelsea’s third.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Manchester City 5-1 Norwich</span></p>
<p>What more can you say about the force of this team? The depth is incredible, there are match winners everywhere on the pitch, and they get stronger as the game goes on. They suffocated Norwich and goals from Sergio Aguero (brilliant), Samir Nasri (weak goal), Yaya Toure (brilliant, again), Mario Balotelli (funny), and Adam Johnson (clinical) completely canceled out Steve Morrison’s header.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Blackburn 4-2 Swansea</span></p>
<p>A goal fest broke out when the lowly Blackburn hosted Swansea. Yakuba got the first for Blackburn on a rocket of a shot but Leroy Lita equalized on a header for the Swans. The Yak scored again, reacting first to a weird shot or cross, I couldn’t figure out which one it was, but nonetheless it was scored. Yakuba then completed the hat trick before Swansea trimmed the lead to one through Luke Moore. Joe Allen was then sent off for Swansea and two minutes later Blackburn got a penalty, which was obviously given to Yakuba for four.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">QPR 1-1 West Brom</span></p>
<p>Yes, there is actual footage of this game. Sorry QPR and West Brom fans for the disrespect but goals from Heidar Helguson (QPR) and Shane Long (West Brom) made sure each team went home with a point.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Tottenham 3-0 Bolton</span></p>
<p>Three goals for Spurs is becoming routine. They dismantled Bolton starting with a Gareth Bale flick from a corner. Gary Cahill was then sent off for Bolton when he brought down Scott Parker, albeit from about 45 yards out. Aaron Lennon got a goal in the second to double, and then Jermaine Defoe tripled. Three more points for the men from North London.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Wigan 0-4 Arsenal</span></p>
<p>The Gunners traveled to Wigan to bounce back from a disappointing home draw with Fulham. Mikel Arteta scored the opener with a nice shot from distance. Thomas Vermaelen then headed in for 2-0 before Gervinho scored for 3-0. Of course Robin van Persie was going to score, and he did, to make it 4-0.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Aston Villa 0-1 Manchester United</span></p>
<p>This is the seventh league match in a row that United has scored just one goal. That one goal came from Phil Jones, his first for the club. Chicharito hurt his ankle early, which left an odd cloud over this win. This was not the most fun game to watch but it did the job for United.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Everton 0-1 Stoke</span></p>
<p>This was Stoke’s first win after a game in Europe the week before. A Robert Huth flick was enough as Everton was held at bay at home.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Wolves 2-1 Sunderland</span></p>
<p>After a scoreless first half, it was Sunderland, under new boss Martin O’Neill, who took the lead. The goal came on a swift counter attack that Keiran Richardson powered home. In the 72<sup>nd</sup> minute Sunderland looked to double the lead when Seb Larsson flamboyantly went down after barely being touched by Jody Craddock. Larsson then had his penalty shot saved and Wolves went down and Steven Fletcher headed in to level just seconds later. The momentum was with Wolves after that and sure enough it was Fletcher who would get the winning goal. This game was turned on its head in the space of ten minutes.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Fulham 1-0 Liverpool</span></p>
<p>England’s Monday Night Football featured a game of teams that could use a win for different reasons. Liverpool needed to maintain the pace of the clubs around them and Fulham needs to stay clear of the drop zone. Liverpool’s lack of finishing really hurt them in this one. There was chance after chance for the Reds but they couldn’t quite put it in. In the second half Jay Spearing was sent off, harshly, and the momentum was swung. Fulham pushed forward and eventually got their goal when Clint Dempsey scored to give the home side a huge win.</p>
<p>With almost all of the teams at the top winning, it was the club at the very top that is getting my team of the week award. Yes, it may be may be getting somewhat monotonous but Manchester City gets it again for their 5-1 thrashing of Norwich. The Welsh sprinter, Gareth Bale, wins player of the week for his outstanding play in Spurs’ 3-0 win over Bolton at the Lane. </p>
Adam Johnson
2011-12-06T10:41:00Z
It's Finally Here...The Week of El Clásico
A.J. Nelson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Its-Finally-Here...The-Week-of-El-Clásico/-190504910589103550.html
2011-12-04T16:49:00Z
2011-12-04T16:49:00Z
<p class="RBNBasicNoSpace">Barcelona and Madrid have already played twice this season – in the Spanish Super Cup. Barcelona held that Cup high, even though the Madridistas were the favorites coming out of a strong preseason. You can be sure that neither team has forgotten the outcome of those two Super Cup games, nor the outcome of the prior season’s Copa del Rey (Real Madrid) or the outcome of the prior season’s Champions League and La Liga (Barcelona). Madrid, in particular, hasn’t forgotten last season’s league games. The 5-0 schooling at the Camp Nou last November will be on their minds when they face their arch rivals on Saturday.</p>
<p class="RBNBasicNoSpace">Both teams are coming off of wins this week. Barcelona’s 5-0 victory at home was convincing against 4<sup>th</sup> place Levante who has started the season strong and, until Saturday, held a significant threat to Barcelona’s 2<sup>nd</sup> place. Madrid’s less convincing 3-0 victory away over a bottom of the table Sporting Gijon was still solid. Several of the players commented how difficult it is to play at El Molinón, so the full three points, multiple goals and a clean sheet were key. It also keeps Real Madrid three points ahead of Barcelona (who have played one more game).</p>
<p>The week of El Clásico historically has been controversial. Much of that is courtesy of the Spanish press looking for a juicy story; likely this week will be no different. Previously, José Mourinho has gone on the offensive in his press conferences to deflect some of the pressures that come with such a big game. He may not need to this year. His team has confidence, and the players are unified and relaxed (as evidenced by their goal celebrations – my personal favorite is Gonzalo Higuain jumping in to Karim Benzema’s arms the other week). Madrid has a perfect record in the Champions League and a near perfect record in La Liga. Their key players are healthy, Xabi Alonso is rested (he was suspended for the Sporting Gijon game) and they know they have a lead on Barcelona.</p>
<p>For Barcelona, they have several players battling injuries, including Xavi who has continued to suffer from calf issues, and Carlos Puyol, who left Saturday’s game against Levante with an injury. That aside, every week Barcelona appears to be returning to their peak form of last year and there is little doubt that regardless of their injuries, their players will excel on Saturday.</p>
<p>This game will be more important for Barcelona than in previous years. Madrid having played one fewer game (which you have to assume they will win) is holding some critical points over Barcelona at the moment. It is not the end of the world for Barcelona if they lose, but a potential nine points will be a large gap to overcome when you are looking at a Madrid team that has three strikers who are scoring, a defense who is allowing a bare minimum of goals and a team playing as a team.</p>
<p>Whatever happens on Saturday, it is bound to be a thing of beauty. Even last year’s 5-0 drumming was incredible to watch – the style of these players is unforgettable. There is a reason this game is called El Clásico. No matter the outcome, it is guaranteed to be an instant classic.</p>
<p><em>A.J. Nelson can be found on Twitter @FootieObsessed and currently salivating over Saturday’s match to come.</em></p>
A.J. Nelson
2011-12-04T16:49:00Z
UEFA European Championship 2012 Draw
WFD Staff
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/UEFA-European-Championship-2012-Draw/-452336460185428581.html
2011-12-02T18:15:00Z
2011-12-02T18:15:00Z
<strong><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Group A<br /></strong><ol>
<li>Poland</li>
<li>Greece</li>
<li>Russia</li>
<li>Czech Republic</li>
</ol>
<p><strong>Group B</strong></p>
<ol>
<li>Netherlands</li>
<li>Denmark</li>
<li>Germany</li>
<li>Portugal</li>
</ol>
<p><strong>Group C</strong></p>
<ol>
<li>Spain</li>
<li>Italy</li>
<li>Ireland</li>
<li>Croatia</li>
</ol>
<p><strong>Group D</strong></p>
<ol>
<li>Ukraine</li>
<li>Sweden</li>
<li>France</li>
<li>England</li>
</ol>
WFD Staff
2011-12-02T18:15:00Z
Liver n' Onions: Lamenting The Loss Of Lucas
Nash Larson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Liver-n-Onions:-Lamenting-The-Loss-Of-Lucas/-28760292104356988.html
2011-12-01T20:12:00Z
2011-12-01T20:12:00Z
<p>Excuse me while I wipe the tear from mine eye caused upon the news that Lucas Leiva has been ruled out for the entire season with a ligament injury.</p>
<p class="separator"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BNKVDpmdPwo/TtffglFM5KI/AAAAAAAAAkE/oW88GhdPaEA/s1600/LUCAS.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BNKVDpmdPwo/TtffglFM5KI/AAAAAAAAAkE/oW88GhdPaEA/s1600/LUCAS.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">This comes as a massive blow to Liverpool as he has been the most valuable player for the Red's this season. The looming absence of the midfield rock posesses a stern test for manager Kenny Dalgleish in how to replace the defensive steel that the Brazilian provides in the center of the park.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Watching the midfielder hit the deck after a seemingly soft challenge in Carling Cup action against Chelsea Tuesday night was a gut-wrenching sight to any Liverpool fan. Scans revealed damage to the a</span><span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">nterior cruciate ligament in his left knee rendering the midfielder a mere spectator for the rest of the season.</span></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> Used in an anchor role for Liverpool alongside new signing Charlie Adam. A partnership that looked to keep paying dividends on the back of their win at Chelsea in the league a fortnight ago, and most recently the 1-1 with Manchester City. Lucas' role allows Adam to play more expansive, breaking forward quite often seen in the two matches previously mentioned. The defensive security the Brazilian provides is integral to this Liverpool side, closing teams down with lighting pace.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">The question now is how does Dalgleish fill the void in midfield. Charlie Adam is not a defensive midfielder by any stretch of the imagination, and neither is Jordan Henderson… really. Maxi Rodriguez is out of the question, though he may get more starting opportunities, and Gerrard operates best sitting behind the striker. </span><span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> Gerrard has made just five appearances this season, recovering from a groin operation in April, set back further due to an infection. So without the Liverpool captain Dalgleish has to dig a little deeper. </span></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Dalgleish has recalled 19-year-old Jonjo Shelvy out on loan with Blackpool, but he lacks the premier experience to shut down the abundant talent in the EPL. Jay Spearing, though young has done well when asked to play the midfield role for the Red's and you should expect to see him start against the lower ranked teams in the league. The seemingly excessive summer purchases of midfield oriented players now looks a stroke of genius by the Scot, as the options are anything but scant. But that said none really posses that defensive mindset that players likes of Lucas, Gattuso and Daniel De Rossi posses, as the role of defensive midfielders seem to be becoming obsolete. Jordan Henderson has been struggling on the wing since his move from Sunderland, so assuming of the Lucas role could be some redemption for the young player. This is how I see the line-up shaping out:</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Reina</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Johnson Agger Skrtel Enrique</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Kuyt Henderson Adam Downing</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Carroll Suarez</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">The return of Gerrard should change this, but until then I see this happening. Also prepare to see Luis Suarez up top on his own with Dirk Kuyt sitting behind him, prepared to help out the midfield when necessary.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Lucas will undergo surgery, but is not expected back by the end of the season. Once the laughing stock of Liverpool, Lucas has evolved tremendously into a player and would be first on my team sheet each week. A couple years ago if someone asked me who on my team I would gladly have just up and vanish I would have said him, or David N'gog. Now I love his role and how he plays it, making his absence from the starting XI that much harder to bare.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">If you want more check out spotkickjournalism.blogspot.com and stay tuned for next weeks Liver n' Onions.</span></p>
<p> </p>
Nash Larson
2011-12-01T20:12:00Z
Should Atlético Madrid Make a Move for Fernando Torres?
Joseph Zucker
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Should-Atlético-Madrid-Make-a-Move-for-Fernando-Torres/180177179225926196.html
2011-12-01T03:27:00Z
2011-12-01T03:27:00Z
I know what I'm about to say might seem kind of extreme and Chelsea supporters everywhere will be up in arms, but here it goes: Fernando Torres has struggled a little bit since making the move to Stamford Bridge almost one year ago. That might be considered extreme hyperbole, but it's just my opinion. I really feel like I'm sticking my neck out with this one.<br /><br />But seriously, ever since that World Cup Final, Fernando Torres has been a shell of himself. He went into the tournament not at 100 percent, and it showed. He wasn't totally ineffective. You could argue that David Villa was able to benefit from the attention that Torres drew from opposing defences. Coming on as a sub in the final, Torres tried to run down a long ball, but pulled up lame. It looked to be his hamstring as he crumpled to the grass.<br /><br />He returned to Liverpool, but it was clear that he wasn't the same player that had set the league on fire in his first season at Anfield. Torres cut a sullen figure almost in almost every match, spare the win over Chelsea. More than likely he was still carrying an injury and resentment over not being moved in the summer. That move obviously came to fruition at the end of January, almost literally blazing a path to London as supporters were burning his Liverpool shirt.<br /><br />The £50 million man was supposed to bring Chelsea the European success the club had failed to attain under the ownership of Roman Abramovich. Instead, the downhill slide has continued. What are supposed to be his peak years as a player are being spent in absolute mediocrity. He has scored only five times in 30 matches as a member of Chelsea. Compare that to the 81 goals he score for Liverpool in 143 matches. Every match, Fernando Torres becomes more and more a specter of his old self.<br /><br />The parallels between Andriy Shevchenko and Torres are becoming more and more alarming. Shevchenko was supposed to be to Chelsea what Torres is following his move from AC Milan in 2006. As much of a flop as Sheva is considered, he scored 22 goals in his 77-match Chelsea career, almost double Torres' goal rate.<br /><br />The longer he stays with Chelsea, it appears the worse things will get for him. It might seem crazy to say after only being with the club for about 10 months, but it's not as if Abramovich is the kind of man to wait for anything. Something needs to happen for Fernando Torres to regain any semblance of what he once was.<br /><br />Call me crazy, but this just might work: a move back to his old club, Atlético Madrid. At this point, I don't really think things could get much worse for Torres. For those who don't know, Torres had a relationship with Atleti that Robbie Keane is able to share with every club he's played for: It was the club he had supported as a boy. You can find a video of a 12-year-old Torres playing for an Atleti youth team and scoring two goals against AC Milan. (I'd actually be willing to bet that 12-year-old Torres could outscore 27-year-old Torres.) There are few players in the world who share the same passion that Fernando Torres has for Atlético Madrid.<br /><br />The feeling is reciprocal with the supporters. Even after his move to Liverpool, Atleti supporters still love Torres. They didn't see his transfer as a betrayal, but rather more of an upgrade where he could achieve things that were unattainable in Madrid. Right now, that undying love may be the one thing Fernando Torres needs the most. I don't believe he will ever have that from Chelsea supporters. He'll simply be looked upon as a hired gun who's only as good as the goals he scored. He had a strong amount of affection from supporters in Liverpool. Of course, there doesn't seem to be any road back to Liverpool.<br /><br />Not only must he be the focal point in the stands, but the same goes on the pitch also. Liverpool supporters would always complain about the lack of a second striker to pair with Torres, but he was arguably at his best as more of a lone striker and Steven Gerrard would play just behind him. That, too, was never going to happen at Chelsea, not with Didier Drogba and Nicolas Anelka already in the Starting XI. Now you can throw in Daniel Sturridge and possibly Romelu Lukaku in the mix as well.<br /><br />As I have written about before, Atlético could really use another striker. Granted they brought in Radamel Falcao over the summer, they need someone to provide consistent goals. I know Adrián has come on strong recently, but even so, Atleti is really only looking at two capable strikers.<br /><br />Lately, Falcao has really struggled and looked completely alone with no support. Sometimes, Manzano would be forced to play him as a lone striker, thus making Falcao have to come higher to receive the ball. He's not particularly effective when running at defenders from a position close to midfield. However, that is one thing I wouldn't say about Torres. He has a great ability to run right at an opposing back four. I know I made the argument about how Torres was so successful as a lone striker, but he has seen success with the Spanish national team when paired with David Villa.<br /><br />After purchasing Falcao, there's simply no way I see Atlético being able to afford bringing in Torres on a full transfer, so a loan deal would be most appropriate. It could also be the deal that benefits almost everyone involved.<br /><br />Chelsea is able to move Torres to a club where he would get consistent playing time, and upon his return, he could be a changed man. Atlético gets another player who could help get the club out of the doldrums and into a Champions League place. And Torres would move to the one club where he would feel most comfortable. In the words of Michael Scott, it's a win, win, win.<br /><br />Although, with Atlético Madrid involved, there's always a chance that things could implode and Fernando Torres somehow literally loses his right foot in some freak accident.
Joseph Zucker
2011-12-01T03:27:00Z
A Performance More Telling Than the Result
Joaquin Reyes
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/A-Performance-More-Telling-Than-the-Result/-150618411139996519.html
2011-11-30T08:22:00Z
2011-11-30T08:22:00Z
It's rare that I am this upbeat after a loss. <br /><br />The team gave a committed performance and were the better team on the pitch for the majority of the match. Manchester City were dangerous at times but Arsenal had more chances, created more, and were pushing for the winner at the end. <br /><br />But games are won by execution and scoring goals, the only thing lacking from this performance by Arsenal. Chamakh and Park's lack of invention up front didn't do justice to the work done by an industrious midfield and solid defense that continuously stifled City and created opportunities. <br /><br />The strikers did not miss sitters, but when we needed that extra bit of quality around the box to produce something special they lacked ideas. A new partnership and tough opponents didn't help but the bottom line is that the second line needs to be able to carry us when Robin is out. That currently doesn't seem to be something they are capable of but should get at least one more chance to prove their worth in the now unimportant Champions League match next week. <br /><br />The biggest shame of the day is that this group doesn't get the chance to play in the semi-finals of the cup, as watching many of them has been a joy. The beauty of reverting back to our old policy of bleeding the youth in the cup has been evident in the performances we have been able to witness from young talents like Oxlade-Chamberlain, Coquelin, and Frimpong. As they stood out the most they will earn all the plaudits deservedly, but even Miquel held his own against stern opposition and the much maligned Squid had a respectable performance. Credit when credit is due, that is two non-shit performances from him this season, which is good to see even though we pray he never gets near the pitch in the league. <br /><br />The maturity displayed in midfield from the aforementioned trio belied their age as they ran the show with the help of the assured Benayoun against an experienced team of internationals much their seniors. The tenacity and bite in tackle from Francis and Frimmers was awe-inspiring, Emmanuel making his presence felt by all who dared to battle him and Coquelin making excellent intercepting tackles timed to perfection. <br /><br />Coquelin's cool and calculated challenges converted calamity to cavalier forays forward, carving City open and created chances on the counter.<br /><br />The rapid transition from defense to attack from the two talents left City exposed constantly, the distribution in midfield sublime and seeming to always find the right outlet in transition. Really a shame that their goal came from a similar incisive counter, as we had too many men committed forward.<br /><br />As ineffective and indecisive as the strikers were, our Ox in the Box was at ease, gliding past defenders and giving the fans the moments that got the out of their seats. He has something. That intangible. When he gets the ball, you get to the edge of your seat, because you know something is going to happen. Not many players stir such emotion, the feeling is reminiscent of Henry. Van Persie has that class, but there isn't that feeling that he may slalom through four defenders and smash one in like Thierry used to.<br /><br />Alex used his pace, trickery, and rocket shots with both feet to torment the City defense all night. The giant Ent in goal had to make use of his extensive reach to stop The Ox from scoring a smash headed for the top corner, and if his hands are stinging after the match it is only due to the smashed efforts from Alex that he could only parry away. <br /><br />In the end, we didn't do enough to win, but we did enough to scare City and especially Nasri, who seemed to try to sub himself off in the first half only to be told to stay on the pitch. He became so anonymous in the second half that I forgot he was on, seeming to dread hearing himself booed anymore. His ego was visibly damaged, and this led to handbags after the match as he decided to get into it with the unfazed Frimpong after the final whistle. <br /><br />Rumor has it that it carried on into the tunnel and maybe even involved him throwing a punch at Manny and running down the tunnel to the visitors locker room. <br />I hope these reports are accurate, as the thought of Chamakh chasing him down the tunnel is hilarious. <br /><br />$amir has gone from frontrunner a year ago for Player of the Year, to a fringe player who will likely see the majority of his minutes in City's Europa League campaign come the New Year. How quickly the mighty fall.<br /><br />We may be out of the Cup but the future looks bright and we have a core of dedicated footballers willing to give it all for the cause. We can only expect these young talents to push on and become more influential within the squad.<br /><br />As the theme of year continues, Forward Arsenal!<br /><br />Follow me on Twitter @MorningPint and check out www.themorningpint.com <br /><br />
Joaquin Reyes
2011-11-30T08:22:00Z
Are the Wheels Falling Off at Rangers as Celtic get Back on Track?
Sandy Thin
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Are-the-Wheels-Falling-Off-at-Rangers-as-Celtic-get-Back-on-Track/617045619618502826.html
2011-11-29T18:56:00Z
2011-11-29T18:56:00Z
<p>Rangers lose at Rugby Park while Celtic thrash St Mirren 5-0 to reduce the gap at the top of the league to only four points. The tides appear to be turning in the SPL as in less than a week Celtic reduce their deficit by more than a half. Only a fortnight ago it looked as if any hope of Celtic delivering the league title this season was dead in the water, but with only four points now separating them from leaders Rangers, everything is up for grabs. With three Old Firms left to play it is impossible to say which of the two teams will eventually lift the trophy as, with the disparity that exists in the league, it will inevitably be largely decided by the three derbies left to play.</p>
<p>Killie achieved their first win against Rangers in all competitions since 1994. A back-header from their captain, Manuel Pascali, ensured a gritty win that the club will cherish. It was a gritty performance, in which both sides had many opportunities to put the game to bed, but eventually the underdogs prevailed and Rangers suffered their first defeat of the season. Gers’ Manager, Ally McCoist put the loss down to a lack of desire in the team, he told the club’s website, “We didn't play the game at a high enough tempo and we didn't show enough urgency to earn the three points.” He will hope that this is just a one-time occurrence and his side will be back to winning ways with haste.</p>
<p>Back in Glasgow, Celtic made short work of St Mirren in the closest thing you’ll see to a master class in Scottish football. Samaras finally bagged his first goal of the season after Saints’ keeper, Samson, failed to stop his long range effort before it crossed the line. Gary Hooper doubled the lead shortly afterwards, before completing his hatrick with two goals just after the break, taking his goal tally for the season up to 12. The goal rout was completed with an incredible solo effort from 18 year-old, home debutant, Dylan McGeouch, who weaved his way through the St Mirren defence before stylishly slotting home to end the game 5-0.</p>
<p>Elsewhere in the league, at the bottom of the table, Dunfermline partook in another 3-3 thriller, this time with Aberdeen, who have yet to win an away game in the league this season. Motherwell dropped two points in a goalless draw at home to Dundee Utd, placing them five points off the top two. St Johnstone and Hearts both continued their good runs of form with wins over Hibs and Caley Thistle respectively.</p>
<p>This coming week will see Celtic visited by Atlético Madrid on Wednesday before playing Dundee Utd at the weekend; Rangers face Dunfermline; Hearts host St Johnstone and Hibs travel to Motherwell.</p>
Sandy Thin
2011-11-29T18:56:00Z
Di Matteo - We want to win Carling Cup
Thomas Rooney
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Di-Matteo---We-want-to-win-Carling-Cup/841554238783245227.html
2011-11-29T15:47:00Z
2011-11-29T15:47:00Z
It may well be considered by those using a<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><a href="http://www.freebetting.com/mobile-gambling/"><strong style="line-height: normal; widows: 2; text-transform: none; font-variant: normal; font-style: normal; text-indent: 0px; font-family: arial; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; letter-spacing: normal; color: #000000; font-size: small; word-spacing: 0px;">gambling mobile</strong></a><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>as the least important competition that Chelsea are in, but it also represents the first piece of silverware available this season and the former West Brom boss wants full focus from his team.<br style="widows: 2; text-transform: none; text-indent: 0px; font: small arial; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; letter-spacing: normal; color: #000000; word-spacing: 0px;" /><br style="widows: 2; text-transform: none; text-indent: 0px; font: small arial; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; letter-spacing: normal; color: #000000; word-spacing: 0px;" />Di Matteo scored in Chelsea’s 2-0 League Cup win over Middlesbrough in the 1998 final of course, a victory that helped the team go on to bigger and better things as the season went on.<br style="widows: 2; text-transform: none; text-indent: 0px; font: small arial; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; letter-spacing: normal; color: #000000; word-spacing: 0px;" /><br style="widows: 2; text-transform: none; text-indent: 0px; font: small arial; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; letter-spacing: normal; color: #000000; word-spacing: 0px;" />Speaking ahead of this week’s home tie with Liverpool, he said: “From our first game in the competition, you could see we set out to win it. It's a way of winning a cup and can also give a positive momentum if you win a trophy in that part of the season.”<br style="widows: 2; text-transform: none; text-indent: 0px; font: small arial; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; letter-spacing: normal; color: #000000; word-spacing: 0px;" /><br style="widows: 2; text-transform: none; text-indent: 0px; font: small arial; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; letter-spacing: normal; color: #000000; word-spacing: 0px;" />“The success under Luca [Vialli] gave the team real belief and momentum, it was a real positive effect to go on and win the Cup Winners' Cup, and finish the season well.”<br style="widows: 2; text-transform: none; text-indent: 0px; font: small arial; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; letter-spacing: normal; color: #000000; word-spacing: 0px;" /><br style="widows: 2; text-transform: none; text-indent: 0px; font: small arial; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; letter-spacing: normal; color: #000000; word-spacing: 0px;" />As well as being a valuable trophy to win, the Carling Cup also gives Chelsea the chance to play some of their younger players with Josh McEachran and Romelu Lukaku hoping for a chance to impress.<br style="widows: 2; text-transform: none; text-indent: 0px; font: small arial; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; letter-spacing: normal; color: #000000; word-spacing: 0px;" /><br style="widows: 2; text-transform: none; text-indent: 0px; font: small arial; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; letter-spacing: normal; color: #000000; word-spacing: 0px;" />Referring to these two, Di Matteo said: “Josh is a great talent, a good player, but look at the competition he has in his position, they are all senior international players, but he will definitely be the future of the club.”<br style="widows: 2; text-transform: none; text-indent: 0px; font: small arial; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; letter-spacing: normal; color: #000000; word-spacing: 0px;" /><br style="widows: 2; text-transform: none; text-indent: 0px; font: small arial; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; letter-spacing: normal; color: #000000; word-spacing: 0px;" />“I'm sure Lukaku knew he wouldn't be able to just walk into the team. He has to work hard and when he gets his opportunity show he deserves to be in the team, it's very simple.”<br style="widows: 2; text-transform: none; text-indent: 0px; font: small arial; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; letter-spacing: normal; color: #000000; word-spacing: 0px;" /><br style="widows: 2; text-transform: none; text-indent: 0px; font: small arial; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; letter-spacing: normal; color: #000000; word-spacing: 0px;" />As for Liverpool, they too are after victory in this quarter-final as they search for their first piece of silverware under Kenny Dalglish in his second spell at the club.<br style="widows: 2; text-transform: none; text-indent: 0px; font: small arial; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; letter-spacing: normal; color: #000000; word-spacing: 0px;" /><br style="widows: 2; text-transform: none; text-indent: 0px; font: small arial; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; letter-spacing: normal; color: #000000; word-spacing: 0px;" />It is therefore set to be a very intense match at Stamford Bridge, with the freedom for both teams to express themselves at the same time. Goals are expected and entertainment is a certainty.<br style="widows: 2; text-transform: none; text-indent: 0px; font: small arial; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; letter-spacing: normal; color: #000000; word-spacing: 0px;" /><br style="widows: 2; text-transform: none; text-indent: 0px; font: small arial; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; letter-spacing: normal; color: #000000; word-spacing: 0px;" />Di Matteo and Chelsea would love revenge for the<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><strong style="line-height: normal; widows: 2; text-transform: none; font-variant: normal; font-style: normal; text-indent: 0px; font-family: arial; white-space: normal; orphans: 2; letter-spacing: normal; color: #000000; font-size: small; word-spacing: 0px;"><a href="http://www2.premierleague.com/en-gb/news.html">league defeat a couple of weeks ago</a> </strong>too, as well as building on their victory over Wolves at the weekend. They need as much momentum as they can get going into a busy run of fixtures in December.
Thomas Rooney
2011-11-29T15:47:00Z
Premier League Recap (November 26-27)
Adam Johnson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Premier-League-Recap-November-26-27/-240978028858629483.html
2011-11-29T15:43:00Z
2011-11-29T15:43:00Z
<p>Tottenham and Chelsea came out as the big winners with all of the teams around them drawing. Those teams around them, Man City, Liverpool, Man. United, and Newcastle, played each other and drew 1-1 in the two big matches of the weekend. Here is a recap of those two and the others.</p>
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<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Stoke 3-1 Blackburn</span></p>
<p>Rory Delap scored a typical Stoke goal to give the Potters the lead. Glen Whelan then Peter Crouch made it a three-goal lead that Blackburn could only make one better. This was a much needed league win for Tony Pulis and Stoke.</p>
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<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Manchester United 1-1 Newcastle</span></p>
<p>The last 15 minutes of this game was one of the most exhilarating stretches of Premier League action I have ever seen. It got to that point thanks to two, well, interesting goals one could say. United scored on a strange deflection after a Rooney free kick that caromed off of Chicharito. Just a few minutes later Newcastle had their equalizer on a very dubious penalty that Demba Ba put away. Rio Ferdinand apparently brought down Hatem Ben Arfa and the linesman apparently was the only one who saw it. Bedlam then ensued. Jonas Gutierrez was sent off before United had at least seven chances that were cleared, scuffed, or saved by the impressive Tim Krul. It was great stuff that actually had me laughing at the Red Devil’s poor luck. 1-1, somehow.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Chelsea 3-0 Wolves</span></p>
<p>Chelsea returned to relative normalcy after a few poor weeks of football. Manager Andre Villas-Boas is under pressure and his captain got the club up and running with a headed goal. Daniel Sturridge scored on a Juan Mata cross then Mata got one himself when Ashley Cole set him up. It was 3-0 at halftime and domination for Chelsea. The scored stayed the same and the three points were all AVB’s.</p>
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<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Bolton 0-2 Everton</span></p>
<p>Everton has slowly worked their way up the table after yet another slow start. David Weater was sent off for Bolton and goals from Marouane Fellaini and Apostolos Vellios gave the away club the win.</p>
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<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Norwich 2-1 QPR</span></p>
<p>Both of these new clubs have over-achieved so far this season and this meeting at Norwich saw the home side take the points. Russell Martin gave Norwich the lead but Luke Young tied it for QPR. Super sub, Grant Holt, gave Norwich the win as he scrambled home a Wes Hoolahan cross.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">West Brom 1-3 Tottenham</span></p>
<p>Oh, when the Spurs go marching in. Tottenham jumped up the table another spot with a game still in hand as they won at West Brom after being down a goal. That goal shocked Spurs as Yusef Mulumbu headed home to give Roy Hodgson’s side the improbable lead. Emmanuel Adebayor then scored off a rebound of his own penalty to make it 1-1. Both teams continued to create chances but the class of Tottenham shone through at the end. Jermaine Defoe gave them the lead on a solo run and shot then Gareth Bale played in Adebayor to seal it.</p>
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<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Sunderland 1-2 Wigan</span></p>
<p>This was not necessarily a glamorous tie but Wigan got a massive three points, on the road no less. Seb Larrson gave Sunderland the lead but it was Larrson who brought down Victor Moses, which gave Jordi Gomez the chance to level. He took that chance and it was improbably 1-1 at halftime. In the final minutes, Wigan’s Franco Di Santo got the winner on a tap in after some awful defending and goalkeeping. Steve Bruce left the pitch to a chorus of boo’s once again.</p>
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<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Arsenal 1-1 Fulham</span></p>
<p>It was a London derby at the Emirates in which both teams showed fairly well. Thomas Vermaelen was unlucky to score in his own net but made up for it when his header tied it and saved a point for Arsene Wenger’s men.</p>
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<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Swansea 0-0 Aston Villa</span></p>
<p>All you need to know about this one is that the Michel Vorm all-stars kept another clean sheet and held Villa to a scoreless draw.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"></span></p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Liverpool 1-1 Manchester City</span></p>
<p>It was a great first half and good second half at Anfield in the first meeting between probably the two most talked about teams this offseason. Both have spent money on talent and both are fun to watch for the most part. City struck first on a Vincent Kompany header from a corner, but literally two minutes later Charlie Adam hit a shot that was going wide but a deflection fooled Joe Hart and he had no chance as it rolled in for one each. The second half wasn’t played at quite the same level of pace as the first but it was still great entertainment. No goals would come but Liverpool probably had more chances later in the match. It would finish 1-1, and oh ya Mario Balotelli was sent off after coming on as a sub.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Team of the week will go to Chelsea for the first time in a while it seems. They played like a team, which hasn’t been the case in about a month or so. This week’s player of the week is City’s keeper, Joe Hart. His saves kept the score level at Anfield and kept the talks of an invincible season alive a third of the way through the campaign.</p>
Adam Johnson
2011-11-29T15:43:00Z
El Derbi Madrileño a.k.a.
A.J.Neson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/El-Derbi-Madrileño-a.k.a./-611656999350992548.html
2011-11-28T00:48:00Z
2011-11-28T00:48:00Z
<p>There are plenty of significant derby games in football (soccer). Manchester and Liverpool stand out as having some of the best battles ever. Barcelona has them, Sevilla does as well and Madrid boasts several (with Getafe and Rayo Vallecano now in the top tier), but the principal Derbi Madrileño is the match between Real Madrid and Atlético Madrid. The one team is full of superstars. The other struggles to retain its stars. One is at the top of La Liga and the other is struggling to stay in the top half. Although Real Madrid has won a majority of their meetings (50 out of 74) and hasn’t lost to Atlético at home since the 1999/2000 season, as everyone knows, a derby means more is on the line and even a last place team has the potential to defeat one of the best.</p>
<p>The desire to win, especially for Atlético, was evident to start the game. It was clear was going to play hard football and hard fouling football, making it difficult for Real to have uninterrupted possession with the ball. Attack seemed to be the word of the day for Atlético. If Real had possession, they attacked to get it back. If Atlético had possession, they attacked Real’s defense to try and score goals. The number of fouls made by Atlético was significant, even in the first few minutes. Some were called, some weren’t. Their plan was working as frustration grew on Real’s side and chances grew on Atlético’s side. A goal for Atlético in the 14<sup>th</sup> minute signaled that this was gearing up to be a true Derbi Madrileño. There were calls for off-sides by Real’s defense, but it was simply a great pass and goal by Atlético.</p>
<p>After the goal, tempers started to flare, more fouls were committed by Atlético and Real was looking decidedly off their game. And then in the 21<sup>st</sup> minute it all went horribly wrong for Atlético. Cristiano Ronaldo slotted a great pass to Ángel Di Maria who laid it off to Karim Benzema. It was a goal for sure…only Atlético’s keeper, Nicolas Courtois, stuck his arm out and tripped up Benzema. The referee never hesitated – straight red. Atlético would have to play 70 minutes against their crosstown rivals with only 10 men.</p>
<p>Atlético continued with their initial game plan and did their best to frustrate Real. In the first half, they were called for 14 fouls and given 4 yellow cards (along with the red to Courtois). They did not, however, give up another goal to Real so the plan seemed to be working. But could they hold on for the entire second half? Unfortunately for Atlético, the answer to that question would be no. Di Maria gave Real the lead in the 48<sup>th</sup> minute and they never looked back. At the 60<sup>th</sup> minute, Mourinho did surprise a few people, however, adding a 3<sup>rd</sup> forward, Gonzalo Higuain, taking off goal scorer, Di Maria. . It almost seemed unfair. At the time of Higuain’s entrance, Ronaldo, Higuain and Benzema had scored a combined 33 goals in La Liga this season. It would only take 4 minutes for Higuain to add to that tally. </p>
<p>Atlético would continue their fouling ways throughout the game and I have to imagine that several of Real’s players had bruises on Sunday. One of the final fouls would again be in the box and allow Ronaldo to take a penalty kick to put him in the lead in the race for the Pichichi. He is now at 16, Lionel Messi at 15. </p>
<p>When the game ended, Atlético would commit a total of 25 fouls, receive 5 yellow cards and 2 red cards. They would also lose to their local rivals 4-1 and drop to 11<sup>th</sup> place in La Liga. For Real, bruises aside, they could smile at the end of the day. A 1-0 loss by Barcelona to another Madrid squad, Getafe, puts Los Blancos a full 6 points ahead of Barcelona in La Liga. And second place Barcelona is now looking over their shoulders with Valencia only one point behind and Levante only 2 points behind, with El Clásico, as of this writing, looming at 13 days and counting…</p>
<p><em>A.J. Nelson can be found on Twitter @FootieObsessed</em></p>
A.J.Neson
2011-11-28T00:48:00Z
Chelsea keeper shows support to Villas-Boas
Thomas Rooney
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Chelsea-keeper-shows-support-to-Villas-Boas/96441417101977163.html
2011-11-24T19:55:00Z
2011-11-24T19:55:00Z
<span><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; color: black;"><span style="widows: 2; orphans: 2; float: none; word-spacing: 0px;">Following the 2-1 defeat to Bayer Leverkusen in the Champions League this week, there is no doubt as far as those who <a href="http://www.inplaybetting.com">bet in play</a> are concerned that Chelsea boss Andre Villas-Boas is under pressure.</span><br style="widows: 2; orphans: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><br style="widows: 2; orphans: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><span style="widows: 2; orphans: 2; float: none; word-spacing: 0px;">It may be too early to suggest that the former Porto man is to be shown the door at Stamford Bridge, but defeats have been far too regular of late.</span><br style="widows: 2; orphans: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><br style="widows: 2; orphans: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><span style="widows: 2; orphans: 2; float: none; word-spacing: 0px;">In the league, they have lost their last two home games – against top four rivals Arsenal and Liverpool no less – and this came soon after the 1-0 reverse at newly promoted Queens Park Rangers.</span><br style="widows: 2; orphans: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><br style="widows: 2; orphans: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><span style="widows: 2; orphans: 2; float: none; word-spacing: 0px;">It looked as though the Blues were set for some light relief last night as they went 1-0 up against Leverkusen in Germany, but goals in the 73rd and 91st minute saw them lose the game.</span><br style="widows: 2; orphans: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><br style="widows: 2; orphans: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><span style="widows: 2; orphans: 2; float: none; word-spacing: 0px;">There can be no denying that things aren’t going for Chelsea or Villas-Boas at the moment. They are 5th in the league and still in need of points to qualify for the knock-out stages at Europe.</span><br style="widows: 2; orphans: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><br style="widows: 2; orphans: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><span style="widows: 2; orphans: 2; float: none; word-spacing: 0px;">The manager shouldn’t be blamed though according to Chelsea goalkeeper Pett Cech who believes that the players are at fault for the poor run of form recently.</span><br style="widows: 2; orphans: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><br style="widows: 2; orphans: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><span style="widows: 2; orphans: 2; float: none; word-spacing: 0px;">He said: “The manager is not on the pitch, we are on the pitch and we are making mistakes. He cannot do anything about individual mistakes while he is standing by the bench.”</span><br style="widows: 2; orphans: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><br style="widows: 2; orphans: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><span style="widows: 2; orphans: 2; float: none; word-spacing: 0px;">“So the players are to blame and we know it and we try to make things happen and change. It is not easy but we keep going.”</span><br style="widows: 2; orphans: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><br style="widows: 2; orphans: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><span style="widows: 2; orphans: 2; float: none; word-spacing: 0px;">Referring to the <a href="http://www.racingpost.com/news/sport/blues-in-danger-of-suffering-a-euro-nightmare/952043/top/">Leverkusen defeat</a> specifically, Cech continued: “We can't really wonder how we lost because we didn't kill the game off and we repeated the same mistakes.”</span><br style="widows: 2; orphans: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><br style="widows: 2; orphans: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><span style="widows: 2; orphans: 2; float: none; word-spacing: 0px;">“We have been talking recently about the same mistakes - concentration and little details when we don't go to clear the ball. I think we need to be much more aggressive in terms of defending and we get punished all the time.”</span><br style="widows: 2; orphans: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><br style="widows: 2; orphans: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><span style="widows: 2; orphans: 2; float: none; word-spacing: 0px;">Chelsea certainly need to get themselves back on track this weekend. They face Wolves in the Premier League in a game that they must get three points from. If they fail to win this one, the pressure will go up another notch on Villas-Boas.</span><br style="widows: 2; orphans: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><br style="widows: 2; orphans: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><span style="widows: 2; orphans: 2; float: none; word-spacing: 0px;">Given the important period of games coming up – there are seven Premier League games between now and the new year, as well as European fixtures – Chelsea need to get a comfortable win on Saturday and hope it is the start of an improved run of form.</span></span></span></span>
Thomas Rooney
2011-11-24T19:55:00Z
Gregorio Manzano Gets a Reprieve
Joseph Zucker
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Gregorio-Manzano-Gets-a-Reprieve/-654540121931856011.html
2011-11-23T17:08:00Z
2011-11-23T17:08:00Z
Those who are in the need of a sleep aid may want to try and watch a replay of the Atlético Madrid/Levante match. It’s difficult to imagine that a more boring first 60 or 70 minutes could ever be played on a football pitch. Neither team really looked like they deserved to get anything out of it. <br /><br />I might sound a bit cynical, though. Going into the match, I didn’t really see Atlético getting anything out of it. Levante certainly aren’t known for their wonderful, free-flowing style of play. It takes a special kind of antagonizing, plodding style to earn the ire/praise of Jose Mourinho. Atlético was coming into the match on a horrific run of form and there were questions marks being asked about almost every facet of the squad.<br /><br />The natives were getting restless in the Calderón. It was a distressing scene to see how empty the stadium was during the match. And the supporters who were in attendance were heard to be chanting the name of Luis Aragonés. Aragonés is the former Atlético player and manager who many are speculating to replace current manager Gregorio Manzano. Many were of the opinion that Atleti’s results in matches against Levante and Real Madrid. So really, it depended on how the Levante match went that would go a long way in determining how much time Manzano had as manager. Looking at the recent results in the Madrid derby, Atleti will be lucky to not embarrass themselves completely. Everything was set up to provide another Rojiblanco disappointment.<br /><br />If there’s anything this season has shown, it’s that nothing will ever go as expected. To make a long story short, Atlético defeated Levante 3-2 in what might have been Atleti’s best match of the season. <br /><br />As I said above, the first 60 minutes of the match were completely uneventful and might have been some of the most boring football I have seen. Although, Atlético had a very strong penalty shout in the first half when Adrián was brought down in the box. Instead, Adrián was giving a yellow for diving. On viewing the replay, it was pretty obviously a horrible decision. When Salvio missed in the 59th minute, it certainly seemed it would be another match Atlético would look back on and regret missed opportunities. Then a funny thing happened: The team actually showed some fight.<br />Pizzi, a halftime substitution found the back of the net, and the floodgates opened. Atlético quickly gave up an equalizer when an unmarked Xavi Torres had an open shot on goal. He was answered back by Adrián only two minutes later after a phenomenal cross from Arda Turan. Diego made it 3-1 after scoring a goal that was clearly offside. Levante pegged one back, but it was too late. It was three much-needed points for Atlético Madrid.<br /><br />I, among many others, have been fooled by Atlético Madrid this season, but this could be a real turning point for the squad. Of course, a matchup with big, bad Real Madrid looms on Saturday, but I don’t really believe that any rational Atleti supporter could expect to get anything from that match.<br /><br />The Levante match could be a turning point because for once, the squad showed fight and determination. At times, the players have just looked really lethargic, as if they couldn’t care less about the result. Levante is the exact wrong kind of squad you want to face if you’re not up for it. In order to really break them down, you have to be on top of your game. While Atleti didn’t look great the entire match, the final 30 minutes showed me more than has almost every week of the season.<br /><br />Jose Antonio Reyes also showed some good signs when he came on as a substitute in the 64th minute. The supporters could be heard chanting his name as well. His place in the squad has come under question with Manzano keeping him out of the lineup for the past couple of matches. The reason made public was because of a sickness Reyes was carrying, but it was obvious that he and Manzano were at odds with one another. Reyes has struggled for much of the season, but if he can start to get on a good run of form, then maybe Atlético can find the consistency they have so sorely lacked this season.<br />Even Manzano seemed to grasp the gravity of the result. He has often kept the same demeanor on the touchline no matter the score, but after Pizzi’s goal, even he was seen to be celebrating. It was quite a surprising sight to see the robotic Spaniard actually showing emotion.<br /><br />It wasn’t a completely dominating performance. The team did show the lack of finishing that has plagued them all season long. There was also some disorganization at the back which led to Torres’ goal. At the beginning of the second half, it took a couple of great plays by Thibaut Courtois to keep Levante off the board.<br />Either way, it’s hard to imagine Atlético going into the Madrid derby with a better result. Manzano looks to have earned himself at least a couple more weeks, but then again, who really knows.<br /><br />Falcaometer (as of November 22, 2011)<br /><br /><img 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" 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" 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" 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" 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" 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" 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" alt="" /><br /><br /><strong>This week: 7</strong><br /><br />The Rojiblancos climbed back up to 9th in the table and showed a real positive performance in the last 30 minutes against Levante. It's hard to expect more of the same against Real Madrid on Saturday. Barring an absolute catastrophe, though, the Falcaometer will remain steady through the weekend. The Europa League match against Celtic on November 30 will be a much better indicator of whether or not Atleti has found a consistently good run of form.<br /><br />You can follow me on Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/#!/TheKuytchPotato">@TheKuytchPotato</a><br />Or check out The Kuytch Potato Podcast on <a href="http://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/the-kuytch-potato-podcast/id463899366">iTunes</a>.
Joseph Zucker
2011-11-23T17:08:00Z
Premier League Recap (November 19-21)
Adam Johnson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Premier-League-Recap-November-19-21/-379084780628849434.html
2011-11-22T22:09:00Z
2011-11-22T22:09:00Z
<p>Coming out of another international break, the entire Premier League just looked glad to be back. We had some of the top teams playing each other as well as some bottom of the table battles. Her we go again.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Norwich 1-2 Arsenal</span></p>
<p>Robin van Persie to the rescue. That line could have been used in virtually all of Arsenal’s wins this season and it was used again on Saturday. First, it was Norwich who made the breakthrough when Steve Morison took advantage of terrible defending by Per Mertesacker. RVP was ready to respond. He leveled in the first half after great play from Theo Walcott then made it 2-1 with a nice finish on his “weaker”, right foot. Walcott and van Persie are starting to link up really well as Arsenal won again.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Everton 2-1 Wolves</span></p>
<p>Neither of these teams is playing very well at the moment but Everton will always be favored in this match up. Wolves took the lead, however, when Stephen Hunt scored thanks to Marouane Fellaini’s late challenge. Phil Jagielka then scored to make it 1-1 before halftime. Louis Saha drew a penalty late in the match, which Leighton Baines converted to give the Toffees three points.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Manchester City 3-1 Newcastle</span></p>
<p>It was 1 (City) v. 3 (Newcastle) but the goal tally would end up the opposite of these two clubs places in the table. Mario Balotelli and Demba Ba exchanged first half chances for their clubs before the former converted a penalty after a handball knocked down a Yaya Toure shot. It was then 2-0 to the league leaders after Sergio Aguero played in right back Micah Richards who scored a nice goal for a striker, let alone a defender. Halftime was needed for the Geordies and they came out better in the second half with Ben Arfa even hitting the post for them. Unfortunately for the away side it was Richards who would haunt them again, drawing another penalty that Aguero put home this time. Dan Gosling got a consolation goal thanks to some good hustle but it didn’t matter. 3-1 City, again.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Stoke 2-3 QPR</span></p>
<p>I have to admit I did not see Stoke struggling this much this season. Things started brightly at the Brittania with Jon Walters scoring first. Heidar Helguson continued his nice streak of matches with a headed goal to level. Luke Young then finished off a great passing sequence before Helguson got his second thanks to a fantastic Joey Barton cross. Ryan Shawcross pulled one back for Stoke and there was suddenly belief for an equalizer. Stoke probably should’ve had a penalty and Glen Whelan had two great chances but it wasn’t meant to be and QPR came out on top.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Sunderland 0-0 Fulham</span></p>
<p>Both of these managers could use a win so of course it just ended 0-0. I would give Wood Work the man of the match in this one.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">West Brom 2-1 Bolton</span></p>
<p>How would Bolton respond to their five goal thrashing of Stoke last time out? Well, they responded promptly with a loss. Jerome Thomas got the first for West Brom but Ivan Klasnic then made his penalty to tie it. In the second half Shane Long rose and headed home the winner.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Wigan 3-3 Blackburn</span></p>
<p>Two teams who are struggling mightily ended up having the highest scoring match of the weekend. Yakubu got the first for Blackburn on a very strange goal. Jordi Gomez then put one home for Wigan to even things up. Wigan then took the lead in the first half when a corner was headed in by Gary Caldwell. David Dunn was sent off for his second yellow early in the first half but Blackburn didn’t seem to be affected as David Hoilett scored to make it 2-2. Wigan took the lead again through little known Albert Crusat but then things got strange. Late in the match Blackbun got a corner which goalkeeper Paul Robinson came up on. In the scramble, Robinson was kicked in the face and drew a penalty. Yakubu scored it and everyone went home with a 3-3.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Swansea 0-1 Manchester United</span></p>
<p>The string of 1-0 league results continued for United on Saturday with a victory in their first visit to Swansea in the Premier League. Chicharito got the lone goal on a set piece but the coolest part of this match was that the Welsh fans got to see their national hero, Ryan Giggs, for the first time as a United player. Those fans gave him a great ovation as Sir Alex Ferguson subbed him out in a nice gesture after the Manchester United win was sealed.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Chelsea 1-2 Liverpool</span></p>
<p>This was smash and dash football as the first half was played at a frenetic pace. Didier Drogba started over Fernando Torres for Chelsea and Drogba looked good early on. Liverpool would strike first though. Mikel lost possession, after a weak goal kick by Petr Cech, for Chelsea and a combination of Craig Bellamy, Luis Suarez, and Maxi Rodriguez got the goal. Daniel Sturridge came on for Mikel at halftime and got the goal to equalize as Chelsea started to look like the team that would grab a winner. Chelsea’s failure to finish cost them in the end though, because Glen Johnson would rise to the occasion and score with a little left footed shot after a great run to get him in scoring position. This was Liverpool’s second win at Stamford Bridge in a row, and what a huge win it was.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Tottenham 2-0 Aston Villa</span></p>
<p>Emmanuel Abebayor’s brace gave Tottenham their fourth win in a row. Spurs haven’t lost since August and have moved into third despite playing a game less than all the clubs around them.</p>
<p>This week’s team of the week is Liverpool for their victory at Chelsea. Kenny Dalglish finally put the right combination of players out there and starting Maxi Rodriguez in his first meaningful game of the season was a great move. Player of the week could go to Robin van Persie again but I will make it a joint award with RVP’s former club mate, Emmanuel Abebayor, joining him. Both players got a brace while extending their respective club’s winning streaks.</p>
Adam Johnson
2011-11-22T22:09:00Z
Johnson aims for top four finish
Thomas Rooney
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Johnson-aims-for-top-four-finish/863313771434037689.html
2011-11-22T15:35:00Z
2011-11-22T15:35:00Z
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; color: black; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="widows: 2; orphans: 2; float: none; word-spacing: 0px;">Johnson – who scored the winning goal at Stamford Bridge, something even those looking at <a href="http://www.casinosonline.com/mobile-casinos/"><strong>mobile casinos</strong></a> were impressed with – says that he and his team are more than capable of securing a Champions League place, especially if they improve their home form.</span><br style="widows: 2; orphans: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><br style="widows: 2; orphans: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><span style="widows: 2; orphans: 2; float: none; word-spacing: 0px;">He said: “We're taking it game by game but our aim is the top four and that's what we are fighting for.”</span><br style="widows: 2; orphans: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><br style="widows: 2; orphans: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><span style="widows: 2; orphans: 2; float: none; word-spacing: 0px;">“If we start getting a few more points at home and keep what we're doing away, I'm sure we won't be too far away.”</span><br style="widows: 2; orphans: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><br style="widows: 2; orphans: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><span style="widows: 2; orphans: 2; float: none; word-spacing: 0px;">Referring specifically to the win at Chelsea, the 27-year-old continued: “I think we dominated the first half, but Chelsea are a great side and we expected a reaction in the second half and we got that.”</span><br style="widows: 2; orphans: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><br style="widows: 2; orphans: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><span style="widows: 2; orphans: 2; float: none; word-spacing: 0px;">“Chelsea are always going to have periods of the game when they're on top. I thought we dealt with it quite well. We conceded but I thought that was quite unfortunate.”</span><br style="widows: 2; orphans: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><br style="widows: 2; orphans: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><span style="widows: 2; orphans: 2; float: none; word-spacing: 0px;">"We showed great character to bounce back. Our last game at home against Swansea was disappointing and then you come here and you do this - that's typical of football.”</span><br style="widows: 2; orphans: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><br style="widows: 2; orphans: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><span style="widows: 2; orphans: 2; float: none; word-spacing: 0px;">It was obviously a special day for Johnson as not only has he only just come back from injury, but his goal on <span id="OBJ_PREFIX_DWT217_com_zimbra_date" class="Object">Sunday</span> came against the club where he spent four years between 2003 and 2007.</span><br style="widows: 2; orphans: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><br style="widows: 2; orphans: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><span style="widows: 2; orphans: 2; float: none; word-spacing: 0px;">The England international never quite held down a place at Chelsea, so the goal will mean a lot to him. It also means a lot for Liverpool as they are now level on points with the Blues.</span><br style="widows: 2; orphans: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><br style="widows: 2; orphans: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><span style="widows: 2; orphans: 2; float: none; word-spacing: 0px;">The race for a <a href="http://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/index.html">Champions League</a></span><span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; color: black; font-size: 10pt;"> place is certainly set to hot up this year with Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool and Tottenham likely to fight it out for two places behind the Manchester teams. Newcastle will hope to stay in the mix as long as possible too.</span></span><span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; color: black; font-size: 10pt;"><br style="widows: 2; orphans: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><br style="widows: 2; orphans: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><span style="widows: 2; orphans: 2; float: none; word-spacing: 0px;">In other Liverpool news, manager Kenny Dalglish was full of praise for his side after the win at Stamford Bridge. The Scotsman said that his team deserved the three points.</span><br style="widows: 2; orphans: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><br style="widows: 2; orphans: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><span style="widows: 2; orphans: 2; float: none; word-spacing: 0px;">“If you have a fantastic performance you've got a better chance of getting a result and I think that's what we did.”</span><br style="widows: 2; orphans: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><br style="widows: 2; orphans: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><span style="widows: 2; orphans: 2; float: none; word-spacing: 0px;">"We played really well in the first half and deserved to win.”</span><br style="widows: 2; orphans: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><br style="widows: 2; orphans: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><span style="widows: 2; orphans: 2; float: none; word-spacing: 0px;">Referring to Johnson, he continued: “It's not bad when your right full-back does it - and it gives you an indication of the commitment and what the players were hoping to get out of the game.”</span></span></span>
Thomas Rooney
2011-11-22T15:35:00Z
Galaxy Win MLS on Starry Night
Casey Keirnan
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Galaxy-Win-MLS-on-Starry-Night/549852339515774366.html
2011-11-21T14:00:00Z
2011-11-21T14:00:00Z
<div><span style="color: black; font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">
<div>
<div>CARSON, Calif. – It was a one heck of a long time coming, but in the end justification was found on a November night when all the Los Angeles Galaxy’s stars shined brightly.</div>
<div>Fulfillment comes in many forms and while the David Beckham has won bigger trophies, Landon Donovan struck more spectacular goals, Robbie Keane played on grander stages and Tim Leiweke cut bigger business deals, this will be few snapshots in time more satisfying for any of them.</div>
<div>Donovan’s 72<sup>nd</sup> minute winner clinched an 1-0 MLS Cup final victory over the Houston Dynamo, capping off both a move that involved all three of the side’s richly-paid superstars and a long and often tortured journey for the league’s most famous club.</div>
<div>Beckham’s American adventure has not been without its pitfalls, yet this was one of his sweetest nights. If, as expected, he departs for a new challenge and a new life in Paris this winter, he can walk away with head held high and his mission, at least to a certain degree, accomplished.</div>
<div>“Tonight is going to be a good night,” Beckham grinned, clutching a bottle of champagne. “I have waited a long time for this. I said I wanted to bring success here and this is very satisfying.”</div>
<div>Donovan, who has so often taken heat for only taking his talents to Europe in limited bursts while preferring to primarily play at home, also took immense satisfaction from not only the winning goal, but the overall outcome.</div>
<div>“We set out our stall at the beginning of the season,” Donovan said. “Nothing other than the title was going to be good enough. That doesn’t leave you a lot of room for error, but we pulled it off and now we can celebrate.”</div>
<div>Early in his career success came readily, with three titles in five years. But there had been none since 2005, and, more importantly, none since Los Angeles threw itself into the Beckham-era by splashing the cash on a star-studded squad.</div>
<div>Keane has been with the Galaxy for just a few months and did not have to endure the painful struggles of Beckham’s early days in California, when the team was simply dreadful and the England midfielder’s decision to cross the Atlantic looked flawed.</div>
<div>Yet the Irishman knows how frustrating a trophy drought can be, having lifted just one minor piece of silverware during his long and distinguished career in the English Premier League. When Keane was brought in toward the end of the season it was hoped he could provide the impetus to push the Galaxy over the line, and he did so.</div>
<div>His deft touch to set up Donovan was worth its weight in gold and instantly repaid a chunk of his reported $4 million salary.</div>
<div>The man who pays it is Leiweke and this was a night of triumph for him too. The Galaxy’s owners AEG have not been afraid to throw their full weight behind trying to build a brand. Largely they have done so, but this night, and this trophy, adds that much more credibility.</div>
</div>
</span></div>
Casey Keirnan
2011-11-21T14:00:00Z
LA Galaxy 1-0 Houston Dynamo MLS Cup Final Match Report
James Cranford
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/LA-Galaxy-1-0-Houston-Dynamo-MLS-Cup-Final-Match-Report/-272411162573069333.html
2011-11-21T06:58:00Z
2011-11-21T06:58:00Z
The Los Angeles Galaxy enjoyed the friendly confines of their home stadium as the Home Depot Center hosted the 2011 MLS Cup Final. <br /><br />On a rainy day in southern California, the leagues' top team got a second half strike from Landon Donovan to defeat the surging Houston Dynamo 1-0.<br /><br />The loss for Houston leaves the franchise with two championships (in '06 and '07).<br /><br />The Galaxy came in as favorites but it was Houston who were on the attack first. Adam Moffat sent in a free kick (set pieces were the main concern for the Galaxy pre-game) that was cleared by Juninho. <br /><br />Just two minutes later, the Galaxy came with a five minute flurry of chances. First, Dunivant had a dangerous cross blocked, then Donovan and Sean Franklin worked the right side, and did so for the entire first half, to have Donovan get a shot away that was blocked.<br /><br />Adam Cristman became the story in the first half, but not for the right reasons. He missed a free header wide from a David Beckham corner kick, then a few minutes later, missed another header and a shot on goal. <br /><br />As the half wound down, Cristman missed his best opportunity of the game as he was through on goal with a good sight at the goal to score but fluffed his shot. <br /><br />The half ended with the majority of the chances to the Galaxy but one might have felt Houston had an opportunity to sneak in a goal if the Galaxy continued to miss chances. <br /><br />The second half started much the same the first ended. The Galaxy had chances with Houston getting a spare shot here or there, most notably Corey Ashe from the left who's shot his the side netting.<br /><br />Controversy came about in the 57th minute as Robbie Keane slotted a ball home and it looked the Galaxy had taken the lead. However, the assistant referee flagged the Irishman offside negating the goal. The replays showed Keane was level and should have been called onside. <br /><br />The missed chances the Galaxy had all game almost came back to haunt them as Adam Moffat rose above the LA defense and headed just wide.<br /><br />But the goal finally came. Landon Donovan, the MLS Cup final MVP, scored the lone goal of the match and it came from his other two DP counter parts. Beckham headed a ball to Keane on the left and he sent in a beautiful through ball to Donovan who toe poked the ball past Hall, who got a hand to it, and into the net.<br /><br /><br /><br /><img src="/images/blog/mls.celebrate.jpg" alt="" /><br /><br />"We had a lot of chances, and we just didn't hit the target and if you don't hit the target you're not going to score," said Donovan of his 20th career playoff goal.<br /><br />It was Donovan's third goal in an MLS Cup final match and was awarded MLS Cup MVP for his efforts, "Earlier in my career the MVP would've mattered. Tonight the win matters; and I'm just so happy for these guys," said Donovan.<br /><br />Galaxy missed a couple other chances and were able to comfortably see out the victory and claim the trophy for the third time. It was a trophy five years in the making and Beckham was finally able to life the trophy he came to LA for. <br /><br />Congratulations to the Los Angeles Galaxy on winning the 2011 MLS Cup from all of us here at World Football Daily!<br />
James Cranford
2011-11-21T06:58:00Z
This Weekend...Passion at the Mestalla
A.J. Nelson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/This-Weekend...Passion-at-the-Mestalla/643657223673869013.html
2011-11-21T03:00:00Z
2011-11-21T03:00:00Z
<p>Raul Albiol and Cristiano Ronaldo both noted it this week, ”We are the most entertaining team right now and people enjoy themselves with us." "People like to see Madrid in action.” Assistant Coach Aitor Karanka, however, would be cautious and warned “[it] will be very difficult to defeat Valencia; last season’s result [at the Mestalla] wasn’t normal given the quality of both sides.” All three quotes would prove to be correct.</p>
<p>So where do you start when processing this game? Do you start with the fact that the final score was a 3-2 win by Real Madrid but could so easily have been 3-3? Do you start with giving commendation to Valencia for demonstrating a “never say die” attitude when the game appeared beyond reach? Do you start with the fact that Valencia proved there are more than two teams in La Liga? Perhaps you start with Iker Casillas’ saves at the end of the game to keep Madrid in the lead? Or do you start with one of the best celebrations I have seen by a coach in some time? </p>
<p>Whatever your take on the Valencia/Real Madrid game; the word “passion” has to be used. Madrid has soaring confidence at the moment (as evidenced by the players’ quotes above) and Karim Benzema’s goal at the 20 minute mark could have signaled another multiple goal fest. Valencia would not go away, however. Whether it was strong defending in the back or a continuous press going forward, Valencia refused to give up. When Madrid added a second goal in the 73<sup>rd</sup> minute, some teams would give in, but it was clear Valencia had heard their coach, Unai Emery, this week when he said “whoever isn’t convinced that we can win should stay away…” They stepped up their efforts, drawing Iker Casillas off his line and scoring on the 75<sup>th</sup> minute. The game was back on.</p>
<p>When Ronaldo scored the third goal in the 80<sup>th</sup> minute, whoever thought this game meant nothing would easily be convinced otherwise. Ronaldo fell to the ground in relief, but it was the sight of Jose Callejon carrying Jose Mourinho on his back that said it all - that’s not a celebration for a meaningless goal. Yet still Valencia refused to give in and would again pull within a goal in the 83<sup>rd</sup> minute. The final minutes would prove Valencia was for real. They held possession, fought for every ball, fought harder when they gave up the ball and showered Madrid’s goal, including a goal that was waived off and a call for hand ball that was refused by the referee (and the replays were unclear).</p>
<p>This was definitely a game to note for both squads. Real Madrid held on to win the game and hold their three point lead in La Liga over Barcelona. Unfortunately for Valencia, the three dropped points meant they dropped to four points below Barcelona, but proved they aren’t going anywhere. With Levante losing to Atletico Madrid, Valencia remains in control of 3<sup>rd</sup> place. If they can bounce back and play as they did this weekend, they may be right there with the supposed “only two” teams in La Liga come May. In the meantime, Ronaldo’s statement proved correct: Madrid <strong><em><span style="text-decoration: underline;">is</span></em></strong> an entertaining team to watch, but this week that was thanks to a feisty Valencia side…and El Clasico is coming…</p>
<p><em>A.J. Nelson can be found on Twitter @FootieObsessed. Happy Thanksgiving!</em></p>
A.J. Nelson
2011-11-21T03:00:00Z
Getting Three Points is Never Bad
James W. Hollis
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Getting-Three-Points-is-Never-Bad/690653994774325748.html
2011-11-19T15:31:00Z
2011-11-19T15:31:00Z
<p>Yesterday’s match was no different. Everton dominated play for much of the first half, keeping good possession but unable to turn that possession into goals. Then, out of nowhere, Wolves attacked and the referee awarded them a penalty which they gladly put away (0-1, 37’).</p>
<p>The goal gave Everton the sense of urgency that was previously lacking and we drew level when Phil Jagielka scored with a towering header off of a set piece (1-1, 44’).</p>
<p>The second half proceeded much like the first half, with Everton creating a few goal scoring opportunities, keeping a lot of possession, but unable to find the breakthrough. For their part, Wolves had no business getting a point yesterday. Everton had ten more shots and eight more corners. Yet, the score was tied with only ten minutes remaining. Then, Everton’s luck evened out as the referee penalized a foul on Vellios (or was it Saha?) on a corner. Leighton Baines put a silky finish into the bottom left corner and Everton ran out winners. Never in doubt.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Talking Points:</strong></p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Penalties: </strong>Both penalties were soft. Certainly, Fellaini shouldn’t have invited Edwards to go down by sticking his leg out but that wasn’t a foul for me. As you may be able to tell from above, I think our penalty at the end was so soft that I’m not even sure whom it was given against. I guess it was the foul by George Elokobi on Vellios but Saha made a meal of a bump in the back from Stephen Ward, which looked to be more of a penalty than the hold on Vellios. This match was quite reminiscent of the match against Blackburn, no?</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Scoring from open play: </strong>Or, rather, not scoring from open play. We haven’t scored from open play in three matches. As happy as I am about scoring from set pieces and getting penalties, our inability to score from open play makes the other 87 minutes of the match rather painful. Yesterday, our possession in the attacking third lacked confidence and our finishing made Wolves look like they haven’t shipped twenty goals in the first twelve matches of this season.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Tim Cahill:</strong> Tim Cahill needs to score. He hasn’t scored since Dec. 20, 2010. I’m not sure exactly what’s wrong but he again missed a shot he normally would’ve finished yesterday. Clearly, he’s aging. As he’s aged, though, the number of offensive threats at Everton has diminished. Right now, it doesn’t look like we’re showing teams anything that they haven’t seen from us for the past three years and Tim looks isolated. He’s never been the fastest and, since he hasn’t been finishing well, he’s not nearly the threat that he has been in years past.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Everton’s Defense:</strong> I thought our defense played particularly well against Wolves. Kevin Doyle has been a thorn in our side in recent years; Jags and Johnny handled him and more yesterday. A couple of nervy moments aside, it was a solid performance. It probably helped the Wolves are offensively challenged.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Man of the Match:</strong> Phil Jagielka (he put in a real captains performance yesterday, scoring a vital goal and returning to his solid self on the back line)</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Up Next:</strong> Bolton Wanderers, who’ve shipped the most goals in the Premier League to date (29).</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Follow me on twitter: <a href="http://www.twitter.com/jwhollis">www.twitter.com/jwhollis</a> </p>
James W. Hollis
2011-11-19T15:31:00Z
The Juice Report: Money, City, and Fair Play
Oliver
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/The-Juice-Report:-Money,-City,-and-Fair-Play/414031609263335166.html
2011-11-18T21:54:00Z
2011-11-18T21:54:00Z
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US">Irresponsible, said, done or characterized by a lack of a sense of responsibility – The Oxford English Dictionary.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US">As in, <em style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Football teams spending in the modern game is totally irresponsible.</em></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><em style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span lang="EN-US"> </span></em></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US">We all looked on in amazement when Chelsea began a spending spree to rival the Galactico grabbing Real Madrid back in 2003, after Russian business mogul Roman Abramovich bought the club for £130 million.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US">And others were bound to follow suit once Roman’s billions lead/bought the Blues their first Premier League title in the 2004/05 season.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US">In 2008 Sheikh Mansour of Abu Dhabi bought Manchester City, and immediately turned the club from struggling penny pinchers, into House Wives of Orange County spendaholics. </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US">This summer saw the Sheikh’s total spending on players smash the £460 million mark, brought about in-part after trumping up a combined total of £61 million for Sergio Aguero and Arsenal’s Samir Nasri.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And while it’s great to see the world’s best flocking to the Premier League, the idea that arguably the greatest league in the world can be bought certainly does taint the magic that surrounds the English game.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US">It also shows a huge lack of financial responsibility during a time when football, and the rest of the world, needs refrain from lavish spending and possibly rethink the idea of spending money to make money.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US">This Monday the Blue side of Manchester announced a whopping £194.9 million loss for the 2010-11 financial year, the most in English football history.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US">Although UEFA are brining in Financial Fair Play rules in 2013-14, City’s recent losses fall just outside the accounting window for the changes, meaning the club wont need to find almost £200 million down the back of the sofa, in order to break even.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US">It almost shows a stroke of genius on the part of the Sheikh Mansour, creating a multi-million pound super squad, just before UEFA try to level the playing field of the monetary situation in the game.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US">But it also means that, along with Manchester United and Chelsea, City have managed to almost certainly cement themselves in the top four or five of the Premiership for the next few years, as the chasing pack begin the fight back to footballing equality.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US">Equality however, seems a long way off as the league’s big boys are already looking for ways to get around UEFA’s financial constraints, such as Etihad’s £400 million sponsorship of City’s ground, formerly known as Eastlands stadium.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US">Many, including Arsene Wenger and Liverpool’s managing director Ian Ayre, suspect foul play and believe their to be too strong a link between Abu Dhabi’s national airline and it’s billionaire Sheik. <br /> <br /> Although UEFA are currently investigating the potential conflict of interest, it seems unlikely any charges will be brought against either party, as cash continues to be king.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US">I do hope that UEFA’s Financial Fair Play plan pays off, especially as a fan of a lower league club who have suffered immense financial hardship since leaving England’s top flight.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US">But as the equality gap between English footballs top league and lower divisions continues to grow, UEFA’s regulations may well be a case of too little too late. </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US">Football is a business, and much like a big multi-national corporation, football’s elite see the rules as something to be manipulated, twisted, and sometimes broken.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US">At least we know that eventually City’s £174 million wage bill will eventually need to be cut at some point.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Lets just hope that happens before the Abu Dhabi investors pull their money out of the club and find something new to play with.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US">Although at least then we’ll have half a chance of leveling the playing field. </span></p>
Oliver
2011-11-18T21:54:00Z
Liver n' Onions: Battle of the alleged racists & Liverpool vs. Chelsea
Nash Larson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Liver-n-Onions:-Battle-of-the-alleged-racists--Liverpool-vs.-Chelsea/-384742773177122395.html
2011-11-17T21:16:00Z
2011-11-17T21:16:00Z
<div>
<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;">The classic color battle: Red vs. Blue, Hot vs. Cold and in terms of this weekend Liverpool vs.Chelsea. The Reds take on West-London's Chelsea at Stamford bridge where ex-Liverpool starlet Fernando Torres will clash heads with the new Liverpool regime.</span></p>
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<div>
<p><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NNIP8W5_T68/TsV5A9llVeI/AAAAAAAAAjs/UHcq9p65AeE/s1600/Evra+suarez.jpg"><img style="float: right;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NNIP8W5_T68/TsV5A9llVeI/AAAAAAAAAjs/UHcq9p65AeE/s320/Evra+suarez.jpg" border="0" alt="" width="320" height="247" /></a><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;">For such a mammoth fixture in the English footballing calendar, the build up to the match has been somewhat of a docile one as off field affairs have somewhat muted the anticipation of Sunday's match. In this week of International play a lot has gone down off the pitch in regards to Liverpool players, consequently arriving in bitter-sweet form. As the player's were off serving their countries, some more than others, journalists have been preying on the decision by the FA to charge Luis Suarez with racial abuse directed towards Manchester United's defender Patrice Evra, during their match on Oct. 15th. They have finally decided to act after weeks of dilly-dallying over it, releasing a official statement that reads,</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;">“The FA has today charged Liverpool’s Luis Suarez following an incident that occurred during the Liverpool versus Manchester United fixture at Anfield on 15 October 2011.</span></p>
</div>
<div>
<p><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;">“It is alleged that Suarez used abusive and/or insulting words and/or behavior towards Manchester United’s Patrice Evra contrary to FA rules.</span></p>
</div>
<div>
<p><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;">“It is further alleged that this included a reference to the ethnic origin and/or color and/or race of Patrice Evra. The FA will issue no further comment at this time.”</span></p>
</div>
<div>
<p><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;">Luis Suarez will face a 6-match ban plus a hefty fine if he is found guilty, which is not comforting to any Liverpool fan as he is the lynch-pin in the Reds attack, the one who makes us tick offensively. Without the Uruguayan's influence we are left with a less than clinical Andy Carroll, a solid Dirk Kuyt, and Craig Bellamy to provide the finishing. Not bad options, but in comparison to Suarez's influence pails in comparison. </span></p>
</div>
<p class="separator"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1-yBI0DA-Qk/TsV5H0zIMWI/AAAAAAAAAj0/j6N-g3tsu1g/s1600/terry+race.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1-yBI0DA-Qk/TsV5H0zIMWI/AAAAAAAAAj0/j6N-g3tsu1g/s1600/terry+race.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a></p>
<div>
<p><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;">Suarez's charge has emerged at a interesting time as his team will face a Chelsea side that fields John Terry, a player also under investigation for racial bashing. Oddly enough these player's will be lining up against each other this weekend, and furthermore could be linked when it comes to a official decision on their charges. Terry could end up being Suarez's alibi. If the FA charges the Liverpool player, they will also have to charge John Terry with the racism claims over his alleged basing of QPR defender Anton Ferdinand. As England's poster boy and captain, Terry won't be painted as a racist by the FA, so if they don't charge him they will most likely not charge the Uruguay. </span></p>
</div>
<div>
<p><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;">One thing that is a fore sure is that they will not be comparing similarities at the weekend, looking to win their personal head-to-head. Suarez will be lining up opposite Terry at the weekend in a match that really is anyone's for the taking. Chelsea sit 5th behind Newcastle, 3 points atop Liverpool in the league table. Chelsea have won 4 of their last 6 games, defeating Blackburn a fortnight ago 1-0, where Liverpool have won 3 and drawn 3. All be their defense looking the weak point of the side, Liverpool have let in only 3 goals in the their last 6 matches, having faced teams like Swansea, Stoke Manchester United, and Everton. Chelsea's stats sing a similar song, but to a more dramatic tune. Having scored a fair amount, with 3 against Arsenal, and 5 against Genk on the 19th of Oct. A more telling stat is that they have shipped 10 goals in their last 6 matches, most notably 5 against Arsenal. This paints a picture of two teams that can both score, but in defense are more than suspect. When Liverpool and Chelsea clash it often produces a quality spectacle, so I will go out on a limb and say a 2-3 Liverpool win, even though my conscience says a 1-1 draw.</span></p>
</div>
<div>
<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Along with the guaranteed racism mentions by the match announcers, a huge talking point is former Liverpool player's Raul Meireles and Fernando Torres facing their old club. Torres will be itching to net a goal against his former employers, after he was booed by England fans in Spain's match with England. Much has come out in various media publications about Torres threatening to tell the " real" story over his exit from Liverpool, which in my mind is no more than the Spaniard creating drama, and journalists trying to sell papers. Anyhow, that just adds fuel to the fire in facing your old squad who's supporters publicly burned your jersey after your departure. Scoring </span></span><span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">56 Premier League goals in just 79 appearances under Rafa Benitez at Liverpool, Torres has struggled to find form after his big money move and Liverpool's replacement Luis Suarez will look to show him how it's done. </span></span></span></p>
</div>
<div>
<p><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GbepQUaSgIo/TsV5TOj97MI/AAAAAAAAAj8/VH22NfVatp0/s1600/Torres+Burn.jpg"><img style="float: left;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GbepQUaSgIo/TsV5TOj97MI/AAAAAAAAAj8/VH22NfVatp0/s320/Torres+Burn.jpg" border="0" alt="" width="320" height="224" /></a><span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">You might expect to Martin Kelly drafted into the line-up for Liverpool, chosen<br /> over Glenn Johnson at right back. Johnson's performance in England's match with Spain was one to forget, as the faults that he is usually accused with where plain to see, and </span></span></span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">proved to the fence-sitters that he lacks International class. Having Juan Mata and and Ashley Cole running at you on the left, the last thing Kenny Dalgleish needs is his right back going walk-about. Johnson and the attacking threat he does provide, will be chosen second to the more disciplined, old-head- yet younger player Martin Kelly.</span></span></p>
</div>
<div>
<p><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;">Not to point out the obvious…Liverpool's Midfield will have to be way more commanding than displayed in their measly 0-0 draw with Swansea in their last Barclay's Premier League match. Against Chelsea, all guns must be firing so the likes of Charlie Adam has to tune his boots to the right pitch and connect some passes. Steven Gerrard, If he starts, will have to look at his opposite number and fellow England International Frank Lampard for some inspiration and motivation. Possession was poor a fortnight ago, and when defending Liverpool sat really deep against a far less challenging opponent in Swansea City. This cannot be how the game transpires against the Blue of Chelsea, as Juan Mata will be have his cutlery sharpened, ready slice the Liverpool defense.</span></p>
</div>
<div>
<p><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;">Looking back a few paragraphs to my prediction, Liverpool see it out thanks to a Carroll header, and a brace from Kuyt. Maxi doesn't get the start, unfortunately, for Dalgleish opts to go with the players he knows/ payed for.</span></p>
</div>
<div>
<p><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;">Stay tuned for the next edition of Liver n' Onions as I will review the match, and bring you the latest form Merseyside. Check out more @http://spotkickjournalism.blogspot.com/</span></p>
</div>
Nash Larson
2011-11-17T21:16:00Z
Vieira Looks Ahead to Ambassador Role
Casey Keirnan
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Vieira-Looks-Ahead-to-Ambassador-Role/-732202943470663528.html
2011-11-16T20:00:00Z
2011-11-16T20:00:00Z
<div>Patrick Vieira earned his salary during his glittering playing career with his crunching tackles, innate reading of the game, and technical gifts.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Freshly retired, the French World Cup and European Championship winner is now being paid for something else altogether.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Perspective.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Vieira is settling into his new role as ambassador for English Premier League big-spenders Manchester City and is making the transition from soccer uniform to business suit without too much difficulty.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>While the soccer world is abuzz with City’s spectacular 6-1 thrashing of Manchester United just 2 weeks ago, Vieira’s thoughts are these days primarily occupied with a wide range of community projects around the world that he is responsible for.</div>
<div> </div>
<div> </div>
<div>“I love being involved in this kind of work,” Vieira said, in an exclusive interview with World Football Daily. “It is rewarding and it is important for clubs to give something back for the good of the game. For me, this is the best of both worlds. I get to still be involved in football, while also doing something that can have a positive effect on the community.”<br /><br /></div>
<div>City’s charitable efforts are both significant, and praiseworthy. In New York last year, the club christened one of the Big Apple’s only rooftop pitches, while Vieira himself unveiled recent plans to build state-of-the-art football facilities at East L.A.’s Boys & Girls Club.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>This benevolent blueprint broke ground almost immediately and only a few months later, the Boys & Girls club of East L.A. unveiled a brand new football pitch complete with year-round coaching sessions and the Manchester City badge emblazoned upon the endlines.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Of course, the competitive spirit within Vieira still burns deep and he would love nothing more than to see City continue its impressive start to the campaign and lift the EPL title. He warned City’s eager fans however, that patience is a virtue they need to hold on to for a little longer.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>“City is a club that was fighting relegation just three years ago and now we are saying that this season is a failure if they do not win the title?” Vieira said. “As long as the team shows growth this season, that will define success.”</div>
Casey Keirnan
2011-11-16T20:00:00Z
Racism, Sexual Abuse, and the Evolution of Media in Sports
Luke Van Patten
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Racism,-Sexual-Abuse,-and-the-Evolution-of-Media-in-Sports/221705181804138020.html
2011-11-11T02:45:00Z
2011-11-11T02:45:00Z
<p>If there was ever a Ground Zero for sports in America, I think we hit it at the beginning of this past week. This nation, like many others, harbors a society that has erected monuments in order to remind them of values which have shaped our past, and consequently form our identity today. The institution of sports is no different. It acts as a living breathing organism, simultaneously yielding both entertainment, and parallels to social values that are applicable to what us American’s have come to call: THE REAL WORLD. </p>
<p> If sports in America was a mirror on a maple colored armoire, than we woke up on Monday hoping to see a reflection of ourselves, only to stare into broken and fragmented shards of glass. Our faces and bodies disfigured, as if copied from Guernica. We stared into a splintered representation of ourselves. Kanye’s “Good Morning” fills my ears more ominously than I ever thought it could. My cell phone alarm clock song has never caused such deep and sickening introspection.</p>
<p> So as I rub the sleep out of my eyes, where should I begin….</p>
<p> The last hopes for salvaging any kind of an NBA season drifted further and further into the abyss of labor disputes, leaving the American public deprived of one of its most concrete pastimes, solely for the reasons of financial advancement and stubbornness. Major League Baseball’s season is over, the climax of which was a surprising beacon of refreshment in the midst of the NBA lockout, but now sadly, that’s gone and the distractions are becoming fewer and far between. Oh and what else…. Oh yeah! A legendary personality and coach within Penn State’s storied football program is an alleged child molester and is being taken to task for the separate abuses of more than nine children, some alleged incidents apparently taking place WITHIN the sacred halls of PSU football facilities! What a great morning to be a sports fan in America.</p>
<p> So I turn off Kanye, and attempt waking up to the familiar chimes and banter of Sports Center, only to be bombarded with the following: Highlights from the two deformed stepchildren, that live together under the stairs in a linen closet of the American sports household…drumroll please…. The NHL and MLS. Hooray for goals; further coverage that the pompous parties on both sides of the NBA lockout have moved yet farther apart; NO baseball coverage, which in a pathetic way would actually be enjoyable; and breaking news that one of the most famous, respected, and tenured programs in the history of college football, has played an integral part in covering up the sexual abuse of several children by its former Defensive Coordinator. </p>
<p> What is going on here? Where am I? Who are we?</p>
<p> And that is the primary question at hand; Who are we? What is wrong with our mirror? Why over night, has it become so hard to see the reflection of ourselves we had become so accustomed to waking up to. Is our mirror broken forever, or is it simply just changing?</p>
<p> This sudden fragmenting of our sports perception is something not at all specific to just America, or Sports, in general.</p>
<p> Hop across the Atlantic Pond to visit our friends in Great Britain; The soccer playing, toffee eating, pint slashing barbarians of the North. Here the acronyms are all backwards. The premier sports leagues in which all media drama and scrutiny arises are as follows: the EPL, the EPL, and the EPL. Combine the media orgy of every domestic American sport into one, and you’ve gotten ¼ of the situation in England’s Barclay’s Premiership.</p>
<p>And at the moment, the league has no shortage of its own controversies. </p>
<p> In the fledgling life of the season there have already been two reports of racial abuse in a “player on player” context; each respective abuse having elicited a report or investigation by the FA (Footballing Association) The latter of these two incidents, shockingly involving London’s in residence philistine, John Terry, has ascended to such a level of uproar within the media world because of the camera footage of Terry addressing the accuser on the pitch.</p>
<p> You don’t need to be a lip reader for the CIA to see what JT is insinuating towards Ferdinand minor. Go youtube it if you haven’t had the chance to yet…</p>
<p> And of course there is a fence with two sides. There are those on one side, who feel it is absolute rubbish to even read into and follow up on delegating punishment for such offenses in the “heat of the battle” if you will, of a sporting event; and the Mr. Feeny’s on the other side are horrified that a professional athlete would act out in such a way, and feel as though there is no other alternative to punishment, for the sake of preserving societal standards.</p>
<p> Although seemingly appearing as non sequiturs to one another, the Penn State cover-up scandal and the alleged practice of racial abuse by John Terry are linked by a similar thread: the role media played in expediting the respective “over night” transformations of each entity, in a context of positive to negative, good to bad, brute to bigot, coach to criminal. The two incidents beg the same statement: No athlete, coach, institution, franchise, or club can continue its ongoing operations in today’s society if there are or have been any traces, big or small, of illegitimacy, illegal activity, misconduct, abuse, or misguidance in each respective entity.</p>
<p> Media has grown too fast, and too strong. In its growth it has perfected relentlessness, perfected its efficiency. Initial reports are gasoline leaks which lead to infernos. Reference Tiger Woods’ recent life developments. Sandusky and Terry’s plights were both initiated by accusations, which were later affirmed by media details. Emails were searched, cameras were checked, audio was re-ran, cell phones were infiltrated, lips were read, and lives were ruined. With no cameras would an event even have been made out of the accusations by Anton Ferdinand on JT? With no phones how can we prove that Gerald Sandusky made 57 calls from his cell phone to Victim 1’s home phone between 2008-2009, as explained so accurately in the Grand Jury Report? Our advancements in technology have created an environment for professional athletes, and all professionals in general, where every action is seen. Every conversation is recorded. No event, good or bad, goes by undocumented. Financial and moral transparency is the most crucial business asset any sporting enterprise could possess in this climate. </p>
<p> The fragmented and broken reality of my mirror is in a sick way truthful. It is in a sad way accurate. The images of sporting icons and institutions in which we rally around, to provide structure to our boring lives, in the hope to be a part of something bigger and more meaningful than our routine, are unfortunately splintered in their nature and DNA. Nothing from this point forward, and consequently anything in the past, has been or will ever be black and white again. Gray areas, very very very dark gray areas are what seemingly more and more of professional sports entities are made of. </p>
<p> And gray is the appropriate color. Because no one can take away from the positives that Joe Paterno brought and fostered into that football program and town in State College. But as we learned in elementary school art-class, when you mix white with black, it makes gray. Paterno’s negligence to the Grad Assistants confiding in him that he had seen a former member of the coaching staff sodomizing a child, is the empty pitch black to the fulfilling bright white of the Nittany Lion’s on-field success.</p>
<p> In this sense, the advancements of technology in media, appear beneficial. Acting as a vacuum to suck out every single spec of what our society deems “foul play” from the infrastructure and appearance of every sporting franchise, and athlete. I never knew that some 1984 shit could be so beneficial to the masses. I never thought that I would be such a sudden and staunch advocate of increasing and bolstering this surveillance. The real reason why this is such a meaningful development because it will weed out the people and places who will try to hide the ugliness of their humanity behind the purity of sports.</p>
<p> And in all honesty no one is asking them to be anything other THAN human. Embrace the gray area, leave it out in the open, for the benefit of being forthcoming and completely truthful ALWAYS outweighs the cost of trying to hide human errors.</p>
<p> For now this Orson Welles stuff is helping sports clean up its act. I am supporting the continuous expansion of media as a means to document sports and sporting entities more accurately and more entertainingly. Perhaps these opinions of mine will change when the cameras are watching me as I mindlessly act out. It is Scary how fast things can change. Until then, keep up the good work Big Brother, keep up the damn good work.</p>
<br />
Luke Van Patten
2011-11-11T02:45:00Z
Here we go again...again
Joseph Zucker
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Here-we-go-again...again/-139661022547961751.html
2011-11-09T22:38:00Z
2011-11-09T22:38:00Z
In my season preview for Atlético Madrid, my expert analysis had predicted a 14th-place finish for the club. By expert analysis, I mean I literally picked a number out of a hat. It just was a representation of how little good it does to try and plan out how the season will play out for the Rojiblancos. Really though, that prediction is probably the most accurate preseason projection made about the club. Atlético sits in 11th position on 13 points.<br /><br />With this atrocious start comes renewed calls for the sacking of manager Gregorio Manzano. It is quite the turnaround from where the club was early in the season. In the first four league matches, Atlético looked like a club that would have a very good shot at a Champions League spot. Manzano was looked upon as a genius and the man who would finally return the club to the promised land, or at least to consistent success. He was a calm, stabilizing force in the dressing room and his press conferences were very open and welcoming.<br /><br />But that all started to change following the Barcelona match. It seems that with every result Atlético reaches a lower point. And just when you think that maybe the winds have begun to change again—following wins against Zaragoza and Udinese—they lose to 10-man Getafe. I just want that to sink in a little bit. Down to 10 men for 62 minutes, Getafe were able to put three past Atlético. The Rojiblancos dominated possession, with 67%, but only managed to get five shots on target.<br /><br />Sporting director José Luis Caminero has <a href="http://www.atleticofans.com/10463/caminero-now-is-not-the-time-for-drastic-measures/">said</a> that Manzano’s job is safe, for now. It all really seems to depend on the next two fixtures, though: home at Levante and away to Real Madrid. It’s hard to see Atleti getting anything in the Bernabéu. But luckily, Atlético’s home form has been much better at home, so taking three points from Levante is a possibility.<br /><br />I don’t really see Manzano lasting the rest of the season, though. The best comparison I could think of is Roy Hodgson’s reign at Liverpool. Hodgson had arguably his best results with smaller clubs. He was able to get a club like Fulham to finish mid-table in the Premier League and runner-up in the Europa League and that was a great finish for them. Then he goes to Liverpool and we all kind of know how that played out. That’s pretty much Manzano’s career path. Granted Sevilla shouldn’t be considered a small club, most of his time spent has been with clubs like Mallorca and Racing Santander, the lower rungs of the La Liga ladder. Much like Hodgson, I expect Manzano to out of a job by the end of the year. He had only signed a one-year contract prior to this season so it was difficult to see him managing past this year anyway.<br /><br />The bigger problem is, who do you bring in? On the “This is Atleti” podcast, this topic came up and two of the higher-profile names were Louis van Gaal and Rafael Benitez. Either one of these men would not do anything to stop the train wreck that is Atlético’s season. I don’t see Benitez taking the job, although he is obviously Spanish. After he complained so vociferously about Liverpool’s troubles behind the scenes, there isn’t any way I could possibly see him coming to a club with a situation that is even worse in comparison to how it was at Anfield. I don’t see van Gaal showing a lot of interest, either. I also don’t see van Gaal being able to get the players to listen to him. He was of course the manager who dropped his pants at Bayern Munich to show he literally had the balls to drop any player he wanted. Both van Gaal and Benitez are from the same kind of mold as managers. They’re tacticians who only really worry about the game. They’re not concerned with building relationships with the players or really seeing them as anything other than mindless chess pieces to be moved according to the situation on the field. This approach wouldn’t really work at Atlético. I think the players would just tune out a manager who simply barked orders at them all day. They need a José Mourinho-type who, while certainly very demanding, will coddle the players to an extent and tell them they are the best in the world, even though that is far from the truth.<br /><br />No matter who comes in, chances are at this point next season, there will be another change in managers. The revolving door will continue to swing at the Calderón. Here are the list of men who have managed Atlético since 1998: Arrigo Sacchi, Radomir Antić, Claudio Ranieri, Radomir Antić (again), Fernando Zambrano, Marcos Alonso, Garcia Cantarero, Luis Aragonés, Gregorio Manzano, César Ferrando, Carlos Bianchi, José Murcia, Javier Aguirre, Abel Resino, Quique Sánchez Flores, and Gregorio Manzano (again).<br /><br />This is obviously not the way you build long-term stability and the club has really suffered because of it. It’s really hard to put into words how toxic this club is. Many football fans are familiar with what Hicks/Gillett did to Liverpool, but this really is a much worse situation. These are systemic problems from the top on down that have been going on for decades. The worst part is, it’s not going to get any better in the future. The debt isn’t just going to disappear and someone like John Henry isn’t going to save supporters from the horrible ownership. Certainly the finances of La Liga are going to do nothing to help rescue Atlético on the budget sheet, either. <br /><br />Supporting this club is like being in an unhealthy relationship with a girlfriend/boyfriend. Your partner does nothing but bring you pain. What little excitement there is, is short-lived and overshadowed by the disappointments. And yet, you keep coming back, expecting things to finally be different.<br /><br />A lot of people have said how Albert Einstein defined insanity as, “doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results.” I am going to provide my own definition.<br /><br /><strong>insanity</strong><br />in-san-i-ty <br />noun<br />1. the condition of being insane; supporting Atlético Madrid<br /><br />You can follow me on Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/#!/TheKuytchPotato">@TheKuytchPotato</a><br />Or you can listen to <a href="http://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/the-kuytch-potato-podcast/id463899366">The Kuytch Potato Podcast</a> on iTunes
Joseph Zucker
2011-11-09T22:38:00Z
Liver n'Onions: 11 Swans a-singing equals 11 Reds a-rooing.
Nash Larson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Liver-nOnions:-11-Swans-a-singing-equals-11-Reds-a-rooing./-622662477628362359.html
2011-11-09T02:00:00Z
2011-11-09T02:00:00Z
<p><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Oooh the Swans were singing on Saturday at Anfield. Not a tune that Liverpool fans were whistling along to as they watched their beloved Reds tie 0-0 with the Swans of Swansea. This draw pre-empted a massacre of the majestic white birds around the grater Liverpool area. Only joking but it could have been a reality as the frustration of dropping points again to a newly promoted team was clearly evident. The old adage of "it's a point earned" doesn't encapsulate it, nor make it better. It's two points lost by a Liverpool team who should be running riot over this Swansea side. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">In actual fact, the newly promoted Swans play some decent football, sitting tenth in the table between co-promtees QPR and Norwich. But Liverpool are sixth, on 19 points, should notch a convincing win at fortress Anfield. I'm not sure if you could accuse Liverpool of playing to their oppositions level, but their seems to be an Achilles heel when they face newly promoted squads. Defender Daniel Agger stated it well by saying that Liverpool looked like headless chickens running around.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">"This is likely one of the most exciting 0-0 you'll see." <br /><br />The match announcer proclaimed, which is a grand claim, but in terms of 0-0 draws it was a decent game. As I mentioned earlier, this Swansea side do pass, and keep possession well, making a good showing of it away from home at Anfield. When Swansea were mounting attacks, Liverpool responded by sitting deeper than I usually see them. This is unlike the Liverpool I know, who are usually quick to charge down loose balls in the middle of the park. Without the commanding presence of Jamie Carragher, and Steven Gerrard in the midfield, the team seemed to lack a defensive leader.The same side that won against West Brom last week, looked half the team that marched out on Saturday.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">A possible game dictating situation fizzled away as fast as it came about, when Andy Carroll rocketed a quasi-sitter off the bar from six yards. The missed chance from a low teasing cross from the Liverpool left, paved the way for the nail-biting "almost" type of game it would conclude to be. Carroll was removed in the 75th minute, responding by walking strait down the tunnel in frustration for his failure to put his team ahead.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><img style="float: right;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Gd-LrVLwjbo/TrneMM8kNVI/AAAAAAAAAgw/ITpfEe8J-IA/s320/liverpool-v-swansea-city-685591964.jpg" border="0" alt="" width="320" height="320" /></span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Liverpool ran the show in the early minutes but as the game road on, the midfield of Jordan Henderson, Charlie Adam and Lucas got out played. Adam is proving hit or miss in games, either brilliant in his distribution or invisible in the center of the park. Lucas is as solid as the rock of Gibraltar, improving immensely from his first couple seasons at the club, but in this game lost his way a-bit. Henderson I thought was a tad disappointing, looking slightly unfit. Meandering into 50/50's made it hard for him to keep possession in the midfield, and his passing radar seemed to be jammed. So bringing him off at halftime, for Dirk Kuyt was a no-brainer for Dalgleish. I have heard cries for the return of Maxi Rodriguez to the starting line-up. Is he the answer? I'm not sure, as he also can be an all or nothing player, but I think it's about time he got a shot. I also look at the work that Joe Cole is doing at Lille in Ligue 1, and wonder if we could benefit from his services now that Gerrard's injury seems to be more involved than was first thought. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Liverpool looked the most dangerous on the wings, with much joy came for Liverpool down their left with Downing and the ever-impressive Jose Enrique ripping the back line of Swansea to shreds. With some of their newest signings in question against Swans, Enrique once again proves to be a class act and his ability to hold on to the ball is something to behold.</span></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Swansea tested Reina a few times, and both sides looked as though they could make the break through, but both men in goal performed heroics to keep the game level. Swansea keeper Michel Vorm ripped a page out of John Ruddy's textbook on how to keep a clean sheet against Liverpool, denying some gilt-edged chances towards the games' climax. All in all their was a fair amount of shots on goal, Liverpool registering 25, doubling Swansea's 12, yet the Reds had only two more than the Swans when it came to shots on target. It's becoming clear to see that Luis Suarez will create more chances than a forward could wish for, but when it comes to finishing he is less clinical. He's like a kid in a candy shop when running at defenses but when it comes to buying a lollipop, he lacks the maturity.</span></p>
<p class="separator"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-r4g1avfRxbs/TrndqwJEJfI/AAAAAAAAAgo/bLPlFJiZLME/s400/SuarezCandy.jpg" border="0" alt="" width="400" height="303" /></span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">This draw makes it eight consecutive games undefeated for Dalgleish's Liverpool, but what I see is four dropped points against two newly promoted sides. Hardly the results that the Liverpool faithful are looking for in a year that a coveted top four position is fathomable. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">In other news this week, Liverpool Football Club have confirmed the signing of Marc Pelosi a U-17 United States International. The midfielder was captain of the United States U17 team who participated in this year’s FIFA World Cup tournament in Mexico. Signed from the DeAnza Force Club in California, Pelosi has featured 28 times for the U-17's against other national sides, scoring eight goals.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Liverpool's Academy director Frank McParland said: ”We’re determined to identify the best possible talent globally and I’m delighted we’ve been able to to bring Marc in to the club.”</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Bringing such a young American talent to a club like Liverpool, you hope that he flourishes in the system, ultimately progressing in to the first team. Which is would be a big step forward for American soccer players. Clint Dempsey performs for his club side Fulham, week in week out, and as an American player abroad should be a role model for players such as the young Pelosi, who has a bright future ahead of him.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">In a fortnight from the fore-mentioned draw Liverpool takes on Chelsea at their home of Stamford Bridge. I will preview this in the next edition Liver n'Onions to supplement your Liverpool needs during the International break.</span></p>
<p>If you'd like some more Oniony fun please check out <a href="http://spotkickjournalism.blogspot.com/">spotkickjournalism.blogspot.com</a></p>
Nash Larson
2011-11-09T02:00:00Z
Premier League Recap (November 5-6)
Adam Johnson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Premier-League-Recap-November-5-6/651035490571350351.html
2011-11-08T06:33:00Z
2011-11-08T06:33:00Z
<p>This last slate of games, before yet another international break, had the teams at the top winning, more drama at the bottom of the table and one special anniversary. There were seven games on Saturday and three on Sunday so let’s get to it.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Newcastle 2-1 Everton</span></p>
<p>As I was watching this game I fully realized how great of an atmosphere St. James’ Park must be when Newcastle is playing well. The Toon got another win, against Everton, this weekend and the first goal came on a very odd Johnny Heitenga own goal. The second was the goal of the weekend as Ryan Taylor hit a brilliant volley past Tim Howard. Everton perked up and Jack Rodwell got one back but it would stay at 2-1 and Newcastle going into second place momentarily.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Arsenal 3-0 West Brom</span></p>
<p>Robin van Persie scored once again to stay at the top of the scoring charts. Thomas Vermaelan made it 2-0 before halftime and this kept going one way. Mikel Arteta made it three for three as Arsene Wenger’s side continued their great league run.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Aston Villa 3-2 Norwich</span></p>
<p>This match was the first of two 3-2 Saturday games and the home fans were the ones singing at the final whistle of this one. Norwich’s Anthony Pilkington gave the away club the lead on a free kick but Darren Bent tied it on a Gabriel Agbonlahor cross. Agbonlahor then gave Villa the advantage when his persistence and pressure paid off as he tapped in after a mistake by the Norwich keeper. The Aston Villa strike force linked up again to make it 3-1 as Bent got his second. Norwich pulled one back through Steve Morrison but that just made it look closer in the end. </p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Blackburn 0-1 Chelsea</span></p>
<p>It wasn’t pretty but Chelsea got the win they came for. The lone goal came in the second half when Branislav Ivanovic sent in a great ball that Frank Lampard headed in. Three points is three points at this point.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Liverpool 0-0 Swansea</span></p>
<p>There may be some real weaknesses in this Liverpool team. If Luis Suarez doesn’t score or get an assist it seems like no one else can for this club at the moment. Fair play to Swansea for getting a great road point at Anfield, with some more heroics from their Dutch keeper, Michel Vorm.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Manchester United 1-0 Sunderland</span></p>
<p>It was the day before Sir Alex Ferguson’s 25<sup>th</sup> anniversary as United boss so anything but a Red Devil win would’ve been shocking. The famous club was less than convincing again but they got that win thanks to a former United defender’s (Wes Brown) own goal.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">QPR 2-3 Manchester City</span></p>
<p>QPR just may be hitting a good run of form and Loftus Road was shocked when they took the lead through Jay Bothroyd. They had a couple more good chances before Edin Dzeko leveled it for City. It was 1-1 at halftime but David Silva gave Man City the lead on a classy finish early in the second half. Heidar Helguson would make it 2-2 and QPR suddenly believed they could get a point out of this one. Yaya Toure had other ideas though as his goal, from an inch perfect cross by Alex Kolorav, kept the City win streak alive.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Wolves 3-1 Wigan</span></p>
<p>These are two managers that I like listening to and two teams that badly need a win. It was Mick McCarthy and Wolves that would emerge. Goals from Jamie O’Hara, David Edwards, and Stephen Ward for Wolves and a penalty follow up by Ben Watson for Wigan summed up the scoring in this one.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Bolton 5-0 Stoke</span></p>
<p>Where has this been all season, Owen Coyle must be saying. His Bolton side exploded for five goals, which is their highest total of the season. The first goal was an odd one, as the kind-of-a-backpass-then-quick-free-kick combo doesn’t happen all that often. Kevin Davies finished it off, however and Bolton were off and running. Chris Eagles made it 2-0 and Ivan Klasnic 3-0. Stoke had chances but Eagles and David Wheater got goals to fully pay back the FA Cup semi final from last year. </p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Fulham 1-3 Tottenham</span></p>
<p>This one could have so easily gone either way, as it was an open and fun match to watch. Fulham had more chances but Tottenham was much more clinical as Gareth Bale finished off a move by smashing a ball off Chris Baird and into the net. The right sided speedy winger, Aaron Lennon, made it 2-0 on a great individual run and finish. Just like last week, Spurs had their lead cut to 2-1 and eventually finished off the opposition with a late goal, this time it was much later, however. Brede Hangeland cut the lead for Fulham and Jermaine Defoe who ended the comeback.</p>
<p>Team of the week is going to Bolton for their high point in this season that very well may not be repeated. Player of the week goes to Ryan Taylor for his great goal and overall solid midfield play in Newcastle’s 2-1 victory over Everton. Finally, congrats to Alex Ferguson for his milestone moment at Manchester United and for having the north stand named after the great gaffer. See you in two weeks. </p>
Adam Johnson
2011-11-08T06:33:00Z
A Change of Luck for Celtic?
Sandy Thin
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/A-Change-of-Luck-for-Celtic/587799242960169739.html
2011-11-07T20:14:00Z
2011-11-07T20:14:00Z
<p>It could be that following a disastrous October for Celtic, in which they all but said goodbye to the league and any hope of progression from the group stages of the Europa League, there was simply nowhere else for Celtic's luck to turn. After a convincing 3-1 win in the midweek against French outfit, Rennes, Celtic continued their form into a 2-1 victory on Sunday away to Motherwell, reclaiming the second spot in the league for their own. While Rangers also won, a 3-1 victory over Dundee Utd, leaving them 12 points clear at the top of the league, a legal battle is brewing concerning Rangers finances, more specifically their somewhat dodgy owner, Craig Whyte. If matters concerning the clubs colossal debt are not resolved, there is every possibility of the club going into administration, which would immediately dock them ten points, but could hold far more dire consequences for the future of the club.</p>
<p>Celtic came from behind, with a brace from Anthony Stokes and a late goal from Gary Hooper, to snatch a much-needed 3-1 win in Glasgow in their Group I match-up against Rennes. The group is still very much in the balance, with Atlético Madrid and Udinese on 7 points, Celtic on 5 and Rennes on 2 with two matches left to play. It will be very impressive if Celtic are able to pull off a place last 32 of the Europa League, although Atlético and Udinese may prove difficult opponents to overcome.</p>
<p>Stokes and Hooper scored again on Sunday against Motherwell, as Celtic again came from behind to clinch the victory late on in the game. It was a vital three points for Celtic, and maybe more importantly a vital three points dropped for Motherwell who may have seen their opportunity of finally splitting the top two in Scotland dashed. The two teams are still joint on points but Celtic still have a game in hand and their goal difference of 12 dwarfs Motherwell’s of 1. Neil Lennon was angered by comments made by Harry Redknapp earlier in the week regarding a possible move for youngster Jamie Forrest, who has been one of the Celts stand-out players so far this season. There is also a high possibility of ex-Dutch international, Bolo Zenden, joining the club after several months as a free agent, according to first-team coach, Alan Thompson.</p>
<p>While Celtic’s luck seems to have changed for the better, on the blue side of Glasgow, Ranger’s seems to have very much turned for the worse. Despite being 12 points clear in the league, the prospect of the club going into administration has left an immense pressure on the players and manager not to drop points as if they are to lose ten points, they will need things to go their way if they are still to win the league, and more importantly, have a chance to qualify for the Champions League next season. They took another blow as, after being stretchered off against Aberdeen last weekend, it was confirmed that star forward, Steven Naismith, had torn the cruciate ligament in his right knee and will therefore be out of action for the remainder of the season. He has undoubtedly been Rangers’ best player thus far this season; however, Nikica Jelavic looks more than fit to step into his boots in terms of scoring, following an impressive brace against Dundee Utd on Saturday.</p>
<p>Elsewhere in the league, after a home defeat at the hands of struggling Dunfermline, Colin Calderwood was sacked as Hibs manager. His twelve months at the helm of the capital’s club was less than impressive with only 12 wins out of 49. Bottom of the league Caley Thistle pulled off a spectacular 6-3 win away to Kilmarnock. Things are very close in the league in general at the moment, after 14 games, with only seven points separating fourth from last in the league.</p>
Sandy Thin
2011-11-07T20:14:00Z
Mikel vs Blackburn: Vertical Passes from the
Lamin Oo
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Mikel-vs-Blackburn:-Vertical-Passes-from-the/624677795046072957.html
2011-11-07T19:43:00Z
2011-11-07T19:43:00Z
Chelsea beat Blackburn with a Frank Lampard header goal, assisted by Branislav Ivanovic who crossed the ball from the right. Both should be applauded for the goal but it was John Obi Mikel's vertical pass from midfield that set Ivanovic free on the right flank. A player who is known for his horizontal passes comes up with a vertical ball that started the attack. We will look at how this particular instance happened and what it means in the bigger picture as far as what Villas-Boas wants from his defensive midfielder.<br /><br /><strong style="color: #000000; font-family: Georgia,Utopia,'Palatino Linotype',Palatino,serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; background-color: #f2efe6;"><em style="background-color: yellow;">The Goal<br /><br /><img style="margin: 5px auto; display: block;" src="/images/blog/Mikel to Ivanovic.jpg.png" alt="" width="501" height="280" /><br /></em></strong>This was at the beginning of the second half. Mikel (red triangle) finds himself with a little bit of time and space in the midfield. Ivanovic (red star), starting the game in place of Jose Bosingwa, makes a run down the right,<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><a style="text-decoration: none; color: #0a5294; font-family: Georgia,Utopia,'Palatino Linotype',Palatino,serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; background-color: #f2efe6;" href="http://carefreechronicles.blogspot.com/2011/11/chelsea-opposition-scout-report.html">the side of Blackburn that bolsters attacking options but lacks defensive solidarity</a>. Mikel lobs a beautiful ball over the Blackburn defense, into the path of Ivanovic's run. Goal scorer Lampard (red square), meanwhile, prepares to make one of his signature late runs into the box.<br /><br /><img style="margin: 5px auto; display: block;" src="/images/blog/Ivanovic to Lampard.jpg.png" alt="" width="501" height="280" /><br />Ivanovic, then, does well to cut back and dribble in towards the goal before whipping in a curving cross with his right foot. Lampard gets low to put the ball into the back of the net with his head.<br /><br />As I've said, both Lampard and Ivanovic did very well for the goal. But I'm interested in that initial pass from Mikel because he is usually known, at least in the Chelsea outfit, for playing the simple, horizontal passes.<br /><br /><img style="margin: 5px auto; display: block;" src="/images/blog/Mikel Passes First Half and Second Half.png" alt="" width="502" height="295" /><br />As you can see in<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><em style="color: #000000; font-family: Georgia,Utopia,'Palatino Linotype',Palatino,serif; font-size: 14px; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; background-color: #f2efe6;">Chart 1</em>, Mikel<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><em style="color: #000000; font-family: Georgia,Utopia,'Palatino Linotype',Palatino,serif; font-size: 14px; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; background-color: #f2efe6;">was</em> mostly making the usual short horizontal passes in the first half. But he changed it up in the break. There were two long balls, both successful, that stood out. One (red star) was the pass to Ivanovic for the goal. Another was for Sturridge on the left flank (which actually came at the 44th minutes in the first half). Both of these vertical passes created good attacking plays for Chelsea. This ability to pulls out accurate vertical passes is exactly what Villas-Boas wants from his defensive midfielder.<br style="color: #000000; font-family: Georgia,Utopia,'Palatino Linotype',Palatino,serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; background-color: #f2efe6;" /> <br style="color: #000000; font-family: Georgia,Utopia,'Palatino Linotype',Palatino,serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; background-color: #f2efe6;" />Back in 2009 when he was still working under Jose Mourinho at Inter Milan, Andre Villas-Boas revealed his footballing philosophy<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><a style="text-decoration: none; color: #0a5294; font-family: Georgia,Utopia,'Palatino Linotype',Palatino,serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; background-color: #f2efe6;" href="http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/teams/chelsea/8699902/Chelsea-manager-Andre-Villas-Boass-footballing-philosophy.html">in a detailed tactical interview</a><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>by<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><a style="text-decoration: none; color: #0a5294; font-family: Georgia,Utopia,'Palatino Linotype',Palatino,serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; background-color: #f2efe6;" href="http://www.chelseafc.com/page/LatestNews/0,,10268%7E2388616,00.html">Daniel Sousa</a>, now the head opposition scout at Chelsea. He said a lot of interesting stuff in that conversation, but his thoughts on what a holding midfielder should offer to the game have stuck with me.<br style="color: #000000; font-family: Georgia,Utopia,'Palatino Linotype',Palatino,serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; background-color: #f2efe6;" /><br style="color: #000000; font-family: Georgia,Utopia,'Palatino Linotype',Palatino,serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; background-color: #f2efe6;" />Sousa asked, "And in that concept of match control, are there any sectors of the team more important than others?" And this was Villas-Boas's answer:<br style="color: #000000; font-family: Georgia,Utopia,'Palatino Linotype',Palatino,serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; background-color: #f2efe6;" />
<blockquote style="color: #000000; font-family: Georgia,Utopia,'Palatino Linotype',Palatino,serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; background-color: #f2efe6;">Well, that depends on the mechanisms you want to use defensively and offensively. Let me give you an example. </blockquote>
<blockquote style="color: #000000; font-family: Georgia,Utopia,'Palatino Linotype',Palatino,serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; background-color: #f2efe6;">Top teams nowadays don’t look to vertical penetration from their midfielders because the coach prefers them to stand in position (horizontally) and then use the movement of the wingers as the main source to create chances. ^ </blockquote>
<blockquote style="color: #000000; font-family: Georgia,Utopia,'Palatino Linotype',Palatino,serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; background-color: #f2efe6;">So, you, as a coach, have to know exactly what kind of players you have and analyse the squad to decide how you want to organise your team offensively. And then, there are maybe some players more important than others. </blockquote>
<blockquote style="color: #000000; font-family: Georgia,Utopia,'Palatino Linotype',Palatino,serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; background-color: #f2efe6;">For instance, many teams play with defensive pivots, small defensive midfielders. ^</blockquote>
<blockquote style="color: #000000; font-family: Georgia,Utopia,'Palatino Linotype',Palatino,serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; background-color: #f2efe6;">And, except Andrea Pirlo and Xabi Alonso, and maybe Esteban Cambiasso and one or two more, they are players that are limited to the horizontal part of the game: they keep passing the ball from one side to another, left or right, without any kind of vertical penetration. </blockquote>
<blockquote style="color: #000000; font-family: Georgia,Utopia,'Palatino Linotype',Palatino,serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; background-color: #f2efe6;"><em>Can’t you use your defensive midfielder to introduce a surprise factor in the match? Let’s say, first he passes horizontally and then, suddenly, vertical penetration?</em> (<a style="text-decoration: none; color: #0a5294;" href="http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/teams/chelsea/8699902/Chelsea-manager-Andre-Villas-Boass-footballing-philosophy.html">Source</a>)</blockquote>
Villas-Boas wants his defensive midfielder to not only shield the defense and make horizontal passes from left to right, but also make vertical passes from time to time to catch opposition by surprise. In lines marked with ^, Villas-Boas almost seems to be describing Claude Makelele style defensive midfielder. But, as the italicized paragraph suggests, he wants more than that.<br style="color: #000000; font-family: Georgia,Utopia,'Palatino Linotype',Palatino,serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; background-color: #f2efe6;" /><br style="color: #000000; font-family: Georgia,Utopia,'Palatino Linotype',Palatino,serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; background-color: #f2efe6;" />At times, we have seen<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><a style="text-decoration: none; color: #0a5294; font-family: Georgia,Utopia,'Palatino Linotype',Palatino,serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; background-color: #f2efe6;" href="http://www.weaintgotnohistory.com/2011/9/13/2421397/match-analysis-chelsea-2-1-sunderland-tactics-statistics">Raul Meireles offering that kind of service from the holding position</a>, which makes us (or at least me) think that Meireles is Villas-Boas's preferred defensive midfielder, especially against<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><em style="color: #000000; font-family: Georgia,Utopia,'Palatino Linotype',Palatino,serif; font-size: 14px; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; background-color: #f2efe6;">weaker oppositions</em>. But I think his performance in this game puts Mikel back into the equation. We know he has more attacking duty when he plays for Nigeria and now he is showing glimpses of his ability to start attack from the deep position. I only hope this will become more of a routine.<br /><br /><em>Carefree wherever you may be...<br /><br /></em>You can read similar posts and more on my blog <a href="http://www.carefreechronicles.blogspot.com">www.carefreechronicles.blogspot.com</a>.<em></em>
Lamin Oo
2011-11-07T19:43:00Z
Newcastle, Why is the Fun Gone?
James W. Hollis
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Newcastle,-Why-is-the-Fun-Gone/-70555608820924650.html
2011-11-04T17:46:00Z
2011-11-04T17:46:00Z
<p>Is it just me or has the Newcastle fixture just gotten a whole lot less fun? <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7NQCCcEr-gY">Kevin 'High and Heavy' Nolan</a> is gone. Joe <a href="http://www.mirror.co.uk/news/top-stories/2008/06/30/video-joey-barton-s-violent-attack-on-a-man-outside-a-mcdonald-s-restaurant-in-liverpool-115875-20627202/">'Big Mac'</a> Barton is gone. Mike Ashley <a href="http://www.sabotagetimes.com/football-sport/is-this-man-footballs-biggest-idiot/">has yet to try to ruin their season.</a> Most of all, Newcastle is actually playing well. In fact, they haven’t lost in the league this season, gaining a respectable 22 points from the first 10 matches. What’s the takeaway from this (sadly for all Evertonians, it’s not Indian)? The match this weekend is primed to suck at least as much as the past few have for Everton. Newcastle may not be as good as United or City, but they have what Everton does not: a striker who is scoring and confidence.</p>
<p>Don’t get me wrong; I’m not calling for an embarrassing loss. I’m the guy that hasn’t picked Everton to lose a game in the past 3 seasons (where are those trophies by the way?). At the same time, I think I need to help manage expectations here. If we go into the match Saturday thinking we should blow Newcastle off the field, we’re going to be disappointed if it’s a nasty game and we have to sneak a point at the end.</p>
<p>In terms of the form table, Newcastle is third, having won four of their last six matches. Everton is sixteenth, having lost four of our last six matches. Sure, I could go into how Newcastle has been playing the <a href="http://knowmersey.com/2011/11/01/newcastle-take-it-from-a-red/">‘shite of the league’</a> and Everton has been facing the world’s best, but the fact of the matter is that Everton’s results recently aren’t anything to brag about.</p>
<p>Do I think we have a chance to give Newcastle their first loss on Saturday? Absolutely. Would I bet on it before I see how we play? No. The problem for Newcastle is that their current form is temporary. Before all of the Geordies jump on me, I’m not saying that your team is bad. I am saying that you don’t have a team that can consistently go on ten-game unbeaten runs. Everton’s form is also temporarily bad, because of a <a href="http://knowmersey.com/2011/10/17/chelsea-3-1-everton-review-woeful-performance-in-need-of-perspective/">tough early-season schedule</a> and a <a href="http://knowmersey.com/2011/10/30/everton-v-united-review-glad-that%E2%80%99s-over-with/">stultifying lack of depth</a>. We don’t have a striker who is scoring consistently, our defense is leaky and our midfield looks like they long for the creative presence of Mikel Arteta or Steven Pienaar.</p>
<p>The result Saturday, then, will rest on whether Everton can turn their possession play into goals. Royston Drenthe’s return is a good omen but our passing play has been woeful of late. Sure, we’ve been keeping the ball but as usual we haven’t been moving the ball into threatening positions and, when we have, we haven’t made the other team pay for it. This is the refrain from the past two seasons; it’s just gotten worse this year because we sold all of our strikers. If we’re going to have a chance to beat Newcastle on Saturday, we’re going to have to score, because our defense isn’t playing well enough to keep an on form Demba Ba from getting a goal. I’m not saying we need to throw caution to the wind but we need the boost of confidence that only goals can provide.</p>
<p>In his press conference today, David Moyes noted that Tim Cahill, Sylvain Distin and Phil Neville would all be facing late fitness tests ahead of the match tomorrow. Marouane Fellaini picked up his fifth yellow card against United last weekend and is banned for this fixture. I hope that this forces Moyes into making offensive changes to the team, though I think we could be in for a 4-5-1 with Louis Saha up top and John Heitinga in the midfield (cringe). I think James McFadden will reappear for Everton tomorrow but it will be off of the bench as he played almost a full half yesterday for the reserves.</p>
<p><strong>As such, here is my XI to start (4-4-OMG):</strong></p>
<p> <span style="white-space: pre;"> </span> Howard</p>
<p> Hibbo Jagielka Distin Baines</p>
<p><br />Coleman Osman Rodwell Drenthe</p>
<p> <br /><span style="white-space: pre;"> </span> Vellios Saha</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Substitutes will (hopefully) be:</strong> Gueye for Coleman, Cahill for Vellios and McFadden for Osman</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Prediction:</strong> I’d be happy if we escape SportsDirect.com@St. James’ Park with a draw. Let’s say 1-1. The pessimist is never disappointed and this is a tough match after the run we’ve had.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Nevertheless, COME ON YOU BLUES!</p>
James W. Hollis
2011-11-04T17:46:00Z
Getting Back on Track...For Now
Joseph Zucker
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Getting-Back-on-Track...For-Now/596860506772376830.html
2011-11-04T03:53:00Z
2011-11-04T03:53:00Z
It really should be expected. Everything has turned upside down for Atletico Madrid at some point this season. Radamel Falcao went from being unable to stop scoring to becoming profligate in front of goal. Manager Gregorio Manzano went from the manager who would return to Atleti back to the promised land, to having to worry about his job security. The club had looked really strong and a chance for Champions League qualification was not outside the realm of believability. Now, getting in Europe looks to be the best they can hope for.<br /><br />Coming into the last couple of matches, there did seem to be one constant: the lack of scoring from Adrián. If there was one thing you could bet on each and every match, it would be that the young Spaniard would once again fail to impress. That is, of course, until the last two matches against Real Zaragoza and Udinese. Adrián found the net twice in each match. It really is a welcome sign for the club, who have been looking for someone to really take the scoring load off of Falcao.<br /><br />A wrote an article here a few weeks back about Atletico's failure to sign a dependable second striker to partner with Falcao. It's kind of hard to tell if that was the purpose of bringing Adrián in this past summer. I would like to believe the club didn't bank on a player who only scored eight goals last year to become a dependable second striker immediately. He came with a good pedigree in the Spain U-21s. Of course, this might all be different had Diego Costa not gotten hurt in July. At the same time, though, the club had plenty of time to look for other options.<br /><br />Maybe I've just been overly cynical about Adrián. I'm just used to seeing strikers the quality of Sergio Aguero and Diego Forlan in an Atletico shirt. I think Manzano's tactics haven't really been helping him too much. Manzano preferred a 4-3-3 early in the season. It really seemed to help the new signings really excel and make quick impacts. But it also stuck Adrián on the right wing. I think it was clear to see he was really struggling to make an impression and seemed to just not know how to create chances for himself. Against Udinese, Manzano opted for a 4-3-1-2. Playing in a more natural position, Adrián looked fantastic and scored two inside of 12 minutes. It will be interesting to see how the team lines up against Getafe on Sunday.<br /><br />The back-to-back wins follow an absolutely horrendous run of form. Following the drubbing by Barcelona, the wheels really fell off for Atletico. Out of a possible 24 points in all competitions, the club was only able to collect 10. As a result, the supporters grew restless and chants calling for Manzano's job began popping up in the Calder<span class="st">ón. A sacking would be incredibly undeserved for him, but there's no doubt the struggles do start with the manager. There's no reason to rush to judgment and get rid of him after only 10 league matches. He hasn't helped himself at times, though. I've listened to a couple of podcasts from the men of This is Atleti, and they commented on how Manzano has started to become a little evasive in his press conferences. That is perhaps not the best strategy for a man whose job security is even the slightest bit in doubt. Earlier in the season, he was much more open and seemed to bring a calming presence in his press conferences.<br /><br />I don't really know why I expected any less. If there is one thing that's predictable with Atletico Madrid, it's their unpredictability in the early part of the season. I'm done trying to make any sense of where the season might end up. Before the season started, I picked a number out a hat and predicted the club would finish in that position, which turned out to be 14th. I pretty much dismissed that as way too low, but it could become a very real possibility. <br /><br />And with that, let's check in on where the Falcaometer stands this week.<br /><br /><strong>Falcaometer </strong>(as of November 4, 2011)<br /><br /></span><img src="data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAADEAAAAtCAYAAAAHiIP8AAAXT2lDQ1BJQ0MgUHJvZmlsZQAAeAHVWWdUFcuy7pmdYLM3Oeecc84554wgabPJWZIEQUVEBRRBRCSoIEoUDAiICoggIEpSBEUUAyKCCpIlvUGP59y77rv/3p/Xa03PN1XV1TVTHap6AGCbI0VGhsK0AISFx0TZm+jz7nF148WNAxxgB7SACFRJ5OhIPVtbS/Bfy8oLAO0yn0nt6vqvYv87g87XL5oMAGSLsH18o8lhCG4AANYnR0bFAIBaQ+iD+2MiEYzuQTBjFGIggl/v4oDfeH4X+/zCGPQvGUd7AwAwrABQEEikqAAAiIIInTeOHIDoIRoCgKUP9w0KB4BhD4K1yYEkXwDYChAZybCwiF3ciWBRn3/RE/AvmETy+VsniRTwN/79LkhLpGPDoOjIUFLCr4f/yyosNBb5Xr8KPVITwkOtd33DjFyffUmGFsidE7m2I0N/+QyRgdj9wp0cENoulgz3sbb5C2v7RxnbIxhpC9lGxujvYuSbQf6RMbaOf9FTEgMNrBFMQOh5ftFGf/RcCiaZ7/qMGqHfjIq1d0KwIILbo+McjBCMjCjoY2Kgo8tfMku+foZ/0WHYP8jY7LcMTB8UY7bbFyPic/6QCItdG5C+YGVgAUKBH4gFUUgdDqSAJTAAhn/VUsAfkBBOHMKLBiHgE4LDkBYRSJsIBPP+JWfwHxTjX+0CkHb/rpEXkBHZ2L/7/N0bL9LnH51BwBfBf+gkpI9d3q510V5Bqf/0+UdiV98va2RrZGdkN//YhBZGy6OV0PpoLbQ2Wg3wopnR7EAKrYhWReuhddAaCE8NGIOPiOaAPzbu6g+76R9XEJGg7hyIcHff3ecPFzj/kg76+/k/LABB/XNNc38sACDGLx6ZBwAYREQmRAUFBMbw6iEz10+S1yycLC3JKy8rJ7fL/n9Tdtes38Yu2v9aiyDmgX9oHk0AKOKRKTn1Dy3KHICb3wFgV/+HJjyCzHscANepybFRcb/1oXdvGIAHNMgIZQPcQACIIt9ZHigDDaALjIA5sAGOwBV4IuMnEBmDUWA/OAAOg3SQCU6Ds6AQXASXQSW4Bm6CJnAPPACPQB8YBCNgHEyCKTAL5sEK2IAgCAcRIQaIDeKBhCAJSB5ShbQhI8gSsodcIW8oAAqHYqED0BEoE8qFCqFSqAq6Ad2BHkC90BD0EnoHzUA/oJ8wCibAjDAXLAzLwKqwHmwBO8IecAC8D06E0+BTcAFcBtfCjfADuA8egSfhWXgZBVBUKGYUH0oKpYoyQNmg3FD+qChUCioDlY8qQ9WhWlDdqGeoSdQcah2NRTOgedFSyDg1RTuhyeh96BR0FroQXYluRHein6HfoefR2xgihhMjgVHHmGH2YAIw+zHpmHzMVcxtTBdmBDOFWcFiscxYEawK1hTrig3GJmGzsCXYemw7dgj7AbuMw+HYcBI4LZwNjoSLwaXjzuNqcW24YdwUbo2CioKHQp7CmMKNIpwilSKfopqilWKYYppig5KWUohSndKG0pcygTKbspyyhXKAcopyA0+HF8Fr4R3xwfjD+AJ8Hb4L/xq/SEVFxU+lRmVHFUR1iKqA6jpVD9U7qnUCPUGcYEBwJ8QSThEqCO2El4RFIpEoTNQluhFjiKeIVcSHxDfENWoGamlqM2pf6oPURdSN1MPU32goaYRo9Gg8aRJp8mlu0QzQzNFS0grTGtCSaFNoi2jv0I7SLtMx0MnR2dCF0WXRVdP10n2mx9EL0xvR+9Kn0V+mf0j/gQHFIMBgwEBmOMJQztDFMMWIZRRhNGMMZsxkvMbYzzjPRM+kyOTMFM9UxHSfaZIZxSzMbMYcypzNfJP5BfNPFi4WPRY/lhMsdSzDLKusHKy6rH6sGaz1rCOsP9l42YzYQthy2JrYJtjR7OLsduz72S+wd7HPcTByaHCQOTI4bnK84oQ5xTntOZM4L3M+4Vzm4uYy4YrkOs/1kGuOm5lblzuYO4+7lXuGh4FHmyeIJ4+njecLLxOvHm8obwFvJ+88HyefKV8sXylfP98Gvwi/E38qfz3/hABeQFXAXyBPoENgXpBH0ErwgGCN4CshSiFVoUChc0LdQqvCIsIuwseEm4Q/i7CKmIkkitSIvBYliuqI7hMtE30uhhVTFQsRKxEbFIfFlcQDxYvEByRgCWWJIIkSiSFJjKSaZLhkmeSoFEFKTypOqkbqnTSztKV0qnST9DcZQRk3mRyZbpltWSXZUNly2XE5ejlzuVS5Frkf8uLyZPki+ecKRAVjhYMKzQoLihKKfooXFMeUGJSslI4pdShtKasoRynXKc+oCKp4qxSrjKoyqtqqZqn2qGHU9NUOqt1TW1dXVo9Rv6n+XUNKI0SjWuOzpoimn2a55gctfi2SVqnWpDavtrf2Je1JHT4dkk6ZzntdAV1f3au603piesF6tXrf9GX1o/Rv668aqBskG7QbogxNDDMM+43ojZyMCo3eGPMbBxjXGM+bKJkkmbSbYkwtTHNMR824zMhmVWbz5irmyeadFgQLB4tCi/eW4pZRli1WsJW51Rmr19ZC1uHWTTbAxszmjM2ErYjtPtu7dlg7W7siu0/2cvYH7LsdGBy8HKodVhz1HbMdx51EnWKdOpxpnN2dq5xXXQxdcl0m98jsSd7T58ruGuTa7IZzc3a76ra812jv2b1T7kru6e4vPEQ84j16Pdk9Qz3ve9F4kbxueWO8XbyrvTdJNqQy0rKPmU+xzzzZgHyOPOur65vnO+On5ZfrN+2v5Z/r/zlAK+BMwEygTmB+4FyQQVBh0EKwafDF4NUQm5CKkJ1Ql9D6MIow77A74fThIeGdEdwR8RFDkRKR6ZGT+9T3nd03H2URdTUaivaIbo5hRILDJ7GisUdj38VpxxXFre133n8rni4+PP5JgnjCiYTpROPEK0noJHJSxwG+A4cPvEvWSy5NgVJ8UjoOChxMOzh1yORQ5WH84ZDDT1NlU3NTl464HGlJ40o7lPbhqMnRmnTq9Kj00WMaxy4eRx8POt5/QuHE+RPbGb4ZjzNlM/MzN7PIWY9Pyp0sOLlzyv9Uf7Zy9oXT2NPhp1/k6ORU5tLlJuZ+OGN1pjGPNy8jb+ms19nefMX8i+fw52LPTRZYFjSfFzx/+vxmYWDhSJF+UX0xZ/GJ4tUS35LhC7oX6i5yXcy8+PNS0KWxUpPSxjLhsvzL2Mtxlz+VO5d3X1G9UnWV/Wrm1a2K8IrJSvvKziqVqqpqzursGrgmtmam1r128JrhteY6qbrSeub6zOvgeuz1Lze8b7y4aXGz45bqrboGoYbi2wy3MxqhxoTG+abApslm1+ahO+Z3Olo0Wm7flb5bcY/vXtF9pvvZrfjWtNadtsS25fbI9rkHAQ8+dHh1jD/c8/B5p11nf5dFV88j40cPu/W623q0eu71qvfeeaz6uKlPua/xidKT20+Vnt7uV+5vHFAZaB5UG2wZ0hxqHdYZfvDM8Nmj52bP+0asR4ZeOL0YG3UfnRzzHfv8MvTlwqu4Vxvjh15jXmdM0E7kv+F8U/ZW7G39pPLk/XeG7568d3g//oH8YfZj9MfNqbRPxE/50zzTVZ/lP9+bMZ4Z/LL3y9Rs5OzGXPpXuq/F30S/NXzX/f5kfs/81ELUws6PrEW2xYolxaWOZdvlNythKxurGWtsa5XrquvdP11+Tm/s38RtFmyJbbVsW2y/3gnb2YkkRZF+xQIopIb9/QH4UYHkEK5I7jAIAJ76d07xSwJJVyBEBsFowACkkbgsCwxDvMi+PQqbwI9QDqjv6EKMC1YUB+HeU7yifI2fJeCJMtReNOdo39JLMCQwDjLLspxhXWH34OjlkuPO41nks+a/IrAkpCEcLXJJtFNsRHxU4pHkValEaQMZrEyXbJqcoTxO/rHCSUU7ZN16ppyrYq9Ko/pE7YS6sQascV8zQUtRa1G7USdVd6+egb6qgbyhgBHeaNF4zmTTTNDc3iLWMsvqnHWJTaltuV2FfZVDtWONU61zrUvtnnrXe24T7qwewZ493hwkN5+D5HO+FX6N/p0Bw4Fvg+aC10IxYSzhKhFRkc+irKJ7Y0XjPPbHxB9IOJZYkFR/oDf540FwiP+wQ2rhkfWjnul3jm2fkM6wziRnhZ2MPBWbffh0QU5D7vMz62eV84sLdAvpiz6VnL2IuWRXeqSs9HJ9eeOV1qs9FSOVn6vRNWK1jtdS667XT9zA31S95d9w7vZAE6HZ8s7xlva7C/f5Wm3akttrHox1bHfSd1F2fXhU2Z3UE9Ab9ji1rwgZff39bwaGBsMGvw5pDZ0c+jpc9SzlufeI4QvRUcLo97Hhl7df5Y9HvTaeIE50v0l5qzmJmZx4d+99yYfkj+5T6p+YPn2f7v18ZebIF59ZvTmOubmvV7+5ficg46lkIe6H46LiEsPSj+WRlc7VgXX4Z+Amdmt6Z+eX/+mBJLBHosAeiAkiQ61IPFaE4kLVoW0wMOY+Nh3nSWFEqY5XptIh2BDDqHNp2mhX6eUZohnvMKNYLFlL2L5wqHOmcfXx0PGa8x3irxV4KjgttCT8VWRMtEEsVdxYfFuiXtJdCit1XdpdBifTIEuSo5Vrl49U4FMYVDykJKc0qZytoq0yq3pezVhtUf2ihqXGmuZlLRutTe1rOmRdId0VvRH9NoM6w0tGZ4zTTeJNg8z2mltYaFpKWnFYU1qv2UzbvrQbsh9yGHecddpwodxD78rqxrWX113AQ8hTxEvUW5wk4SNNVvG18ovxrw54H0QTLBmiEWoYZhPuGRERmbrvbFRVdFvMmzjK/brxSQm3EicPoJK5UxQPGh2yP+yduu/IsbSLR5vSh48tnODKcMu8nDV/Sjk78nRZzrMzFHmGZ4/njxYonS8q3Cy2K8m70HNxrVSkzOnykfIbV95XsFe6IyvdRq3Ztay67vqtG/I3A24VNvQ3Qk3yzd53Mltu3B25t97K1abbTn5wrKP6YV/np66VRyvdMz0jvQ+RdanuydWnJf1nB7IGjwwlDkc+83vuPuL6ImA0d2zwFdW47Gu9CcM3hm/1J3Xfab1X+SD7UWxK8BPvNPdn7hmJLy6zt74qfrszT7+g9cNq0X7JeXnvCmk1du32T+tN4a2PO3Q7x3/5H4vkxfxIfhAESsAExA+FQR0wP5yDwqOy0GzoJownlgb7BJdDQaLUwHNSoahWCN+Ic0gUuUwH6GkY+BjlmAyYHVhIrGFssezxHHGcYVxu3Do8bDwfeS/zufBt858XUBBoE7QUfCFEEvoiHC28JXJUlFr0nBifWJW4gniLhIHEY0l7yTEpL6lP0mHSizKJsrBsphyj3AV5MflbCtoKvYqOim+VgpWWlQ+p4FXyVHlUK9Xk1VrUDdX7NBw1xjXJml+0IrR+aMdr7+jk6srovtE7p+9swGrwyrDYyMOY2/ityUVTLyQSGTU/aaFp8cXygtVeaxHrDZtntrV2afZuDjKOaMdRp3LnYBdul8d79rsquMFuk3t73Bs8Sj2zvQ54B5EcfLTIwr7Uvot+z/2vB2QEBgXZBxuF6IZqhamFy0UwR4xGHtpH3FcR5R3tGEOOPRhXsv9u/MuElSSaA9zJfClsB+kOMR0WS7U8EpN24Whv+o/jHCe0M+wzzbKET4KTs6c2TkvmhOfeQtYXnfzUc20F84XMRarFPiUlF2YuaZbmlk2Xa17JuTpVqV51qvpdrcq1nLqV64E3Jm85NNxtZGoKbr7bQrzree96K9Tm0F7+YOmhYeeZrslu4R7v3qzHd58Qnp4a0BmiGB57XvUiccziFf9rpjfm78DHlVnuJetd//8+W9rdE7DKAOQPAOC4CoAzCwDZ5wAQ8QOABclHbYkIXQ3AqnYA+uQPIGH/v/cPJmT3MAHeIAHkgGrQCSbAKkSHZIXGEAlKhs5Dt6FhaB6mhqVgSzgUzoLr4EF4EcnhNFAk1HHUDdQ4kqcpoH3QZ9DdSDamionF3MHCWEdsHY4el4z7RuFDMYpkSn14C/wglSvVNCGBSEOsojalnqU5RStD+4jOie4tfSD9OsMZRinGe0y6TPeZNZjbWMxYXrPGstGxXUfyh2WOIk5Dzu9cJdxW3Ds8dbzOvD/40vkZ+EsExJGR6SFEIXRfOFFETWRTtF3smLitBKfEF8k7UkelTaQ3ZMpkdWTH5KLl6eUfKZxSDFZyUNZU4VdFq06rPVav18jTjNYy12bWHtU5q+uox6b3Wb/b4JZhjVGdcavJiOlXs20LCksaKyZrDhsWmx3bIbsz9jr2nx2yHJUdp5yuOCe6+Ozxco1wO723w33bU8srybuZ9IMs5Gvnt9+/OOBB4OdguhDN0KCwgvDuiKV93FFG0cExubFtcT/iJRKCEquS5pLlUuIPPjhMnxqF7Fydx56cuJZpl/XslEV2R45GbnOe3tmtgqYLfJfiymLLA656Vu6pdq7dU+d5PfRmVsOLJq876/d8Wy+293Wsdol0e/aW9n3r1xw8Njw4wj4a8fLL6+a3Te/jP65P+80MzGl9q1tgWfRa9luVXuv7qbmRtdm59XF76df6wQzkkJOmAOQcoRg5NRgGXyFK5FRAH/JCTgCKkKx/DFqDWWF1eC+cguTzj+BZFD1KDeWDykI1o6bQTGhjdCL6BnoWI4oJxtzCorDu2HacNK6CQoSihlKBshVviZ+giiIQCNVEK+IydRmNEy2Btocug96OgZ3hHWMJkyXTAnMuiwLLC9YkNgG2fvYkDkmOt5xnuay58dw9PCd4TfnQfHf5wwX4BEYFc4TshBmFx0WuiO4T0xWnE5+SuCuZJxUmrS9DI/NM9rScpTxBflShXjFXKUmZrGKhKq/Gro5Wn9eY0HykVal9VMddV1GPRm9B/43BMJL7DBq/NPlkumQOWRAsWawErGVttGwN7HTs5R14HKkcN5yWnFdcdlyp3Jj2crnzefB7cnkxeEPe30mTPmPkcd85f4oA8UCboLjgSyF9oWvhQhE2kdH7TkdVRN+PGYld3s8Tb4tEKA+StpI1Ug4cbD2MSjU/kp82na51rPD4RoZn5sOT4qfysndyQnNf59mefXrO9TwofFhccCH0kmoZdLnvSkFFUJVmDUPt17on1+tuZjd4NeKbcu8QWrLuCd1/09b4oPjhsa647qBe3z7/p8ED4UP7nsWOxI+Gv9R89fy1/kTxm4VJu3fjH85OpU6fnLk02/C17/v4woNF16W65U+rhDW19cwNvV/+5wRawAOkgAugDUxCMCQImUAhUDbUAL2CIVgMtocPwBXwcxSMkkf5ogpQ/Wgc2gCdin6EocF4YZqwHNhsZKZfpTCk+EJ5Dm9JhaPqJeQRA6j1aYRoaekA3TL9d4Z5xlVmLAsHqzqbN/tpjh4uPLcjTxUfDX+UQK1gp1C/8JjIJ9E1cVoJCUlLqWjpCpkFOQP5QwqVil1K71RgVTE1R/U0jXtaWO0kXbxePBJL/DDiNrY0STKtM5uy4LMkWV2x/mqrY1figHEMdLrvgt1j6prhNoj4LN/rIGmCXO9H9LcKOBLYErQYIh0aGnYtfDXSbl9btFZMYxz7/tD4WwnrSToHjiUPHeQ6FH6454hG2mT6/eNZGVyZKVm9p6iz7ZEI8u0Zsbz9Z/vOSRYUFbIWnSmBL/hcvF2KKrO+XFg+c1W1IqNyolq+5njtZJ16ff71HzetbpU3rDTqNh1p7mqhurvnXn0rXVtS+5cO94cDXYaPWnrke2v6hJ+U9fMOlA4JDlc9lx1pGbUYm3lV9NrjDfPbmnds74M/lH8cntqaFvpsNRP75eJs79zyN77vVvNxCyU/bi62LjUsn18JWJVY7V0LWFteJ68P/9T9WflzcUNnI2PjxSbfZvBm2ebLLbot061DW01b37dFtl2207dvb3/cYdjR34naKd0Z3PV/tL+C/O7uASCCPnL8+GZnZ1EYAFwuAFs5OzsbZTs7W5eRZAP5B9Ie+vt/xa4wFjlzL27fRY/uJu/e/q38DwT7fzuu2dvGAAAACXBIWXMAAAsTAAALSwFy+EtEAAAU7ElEQVRoBa1ZeYxdd3k9d3v3vnXeMm/mzT4e77FjO7GzOARngxBSaEpLXFEoZSmlKW2l/oMoSLUoatVK3StVNF2o1KqCBCgSlEopKUshDWBKFq8Zb7PPvHn7fXffen7PUNmpbRzKk0Zvmbt851vOd77vSkmS4Cf1+siHPnjvSG14zg0cY2hicjmbzQaJLCfNXnfd+lXr1DEci39S97ryOtJPAsTTeFp59gOffYcfKn+o66lSvdGE50dxvjAEI2NgdWHBX1trPOv71rfm5ua8brdfWFxc/nJ3eXntkcOHraeee8650qjX+vn/BeLR7dsLi1ryaJQkb83mcm/rtM20JMkIggiu6yCVSvFPQ79vI47DMI6jsDZSgp7JoNPsuKVCvhk45mo2q//JRq/11fPnW93XCkAc/2ODeNOb7tqycKn+V7YbHJJkJRsFYZqG0ljA9wNIUgI9bSAiIPH98iuBovBP0hDEPrZvmYod0woleN3hQvp0Ljf0+ZcXVj994cLGxg9OuKm3HwvEttmxN0PJfFQ1jLt839d8ej3wPciq8LyBwHOgqvIAkOM4BOHzc4wkEX8CiIQwTjCUNVBiyjU6XVTzqXC6VuuPjU+cWd3YPPbMt44/c1MIeNBrBnH3Hfsec9zgScsLyzxbDQjA92NomgpVz/CKEiLf5W+MijA6ikUqIQxDRFE0ABNFIcGAYGTk82lxCjzXRzGt47Z9e8NabXLta19+5q5Tm5trNwNEvZmDrjxGluT3e0E0EnguPM+n0YChG4BqwA0ClHNZJCkVvZYJh0YzzRgVlRFSCUScIwhKGhgehhG6XXPwfxGh0FBxcv6coqfzy1YmcK+8740+vyYQc3PTR3zbOeLQMJ/eVBUVuUIeO3Zsx3i1Ck2KsWN6HJbZRbPZxvJmHcvrHay3OwQgjDcgQ4UXeCz+ALIsD2wTRCAxHF3LpyMQfv+ll/90cbHbuZHhV/7vNYHotTo/1Xf9gvCaruuoDBfw6EP3467bD0IJHMROD7osIc5rsHIKdg2n0RgrYq3RxcJmC5aXoO96WOTnSFjBSIk0u/xK4NM5KVWWfdcu8h433cBuGsS+fTOlOPYeiaKYZCSjVCrgsYcfwD237UfeSMMzHURkHikK4Ic2fe4xa2igIWForIRSWoXtRLAD5r4hY6VtodG14RF0SOMTxIMaSSRFKQ1X33Zo69anjp8/f1OUezmeP/DFDd4k8s6Hoei7hIOymSzeeN9hHDl0AJVCgQkSQ6dvldhDIpFOI5uF69MwHxldQVqTUODFh5QYtVwKd8zWcPdcDVPDOZDEeD19cGuRcq7noWP2to6w09/Anqv+dVMg3v7mN9zqBeF7PT9IiTyemhzD7Xu2YyiXg8xcTsj55BfIkQuJ9ZgwEmFAIAQVRz581yQFO2yAfcSkYiMlY2wojclimuexVkgOupbisfGA1drt9tQZ2/ylo0ePKldZe50vPxIEC844u3DpCcvxRkQdFApZ5LMpDBeLkMg6Cfk/Zgp5bheu00foWWQkgqIj41h0b9Ir+0RAMDF7Q99xEZCVdJX20dcSneKSXhVVIsuJiEhMuyDt+P6H+/3mrzz99NM/Esh1a+Kee+5J12rDh4+87s6jjmU+HjHdM2QRyybzkZlEiiiKhpCdWfQBvpH4AbvXo20SZC0NNR1CI7Vq7NxezISzWfy8Bg+HMZSivaKHxANQoiZElIvsG8SKTt+a7LW6v3369IvrwOP/cp0gDH6+CgS9Lv30Q3e9YXr73H37d01s7/W9vRriyY7nFfqWA8tyYbEDi+7M5KexCkJGoe/YaLRIo24POV4xVy4xSxI0mk107BjLDXNguMrKYkyonXSURsrQXlkkeLIZjQ4CASIhbYdMN30Ahu1xav7USx89+pYHF5/60n9873pArgLx7scfeZ3l+H/RbvaqpmlmG5tNY63eQLfv0NhwEHbBJIah01N9HD/zLawsL2B9fQPtVgNjeR2HdoxgStfg8JzNdg/zK12cXe2gaXrUTAK7RHbS8TpZYU1lUTI0mI7o4Jclie0FBKKhmCOQgoZU7BzwAvvJn3nzg/+03rb/7vnnn++9GswAxN69e1PjlfGZRPV+3khpuyLHQ7vdxWq9iTY7quBvwUqk18H5GvP59CvzWFxbxebmBjbZB5LQg6/n0O10QCxkmQiOZSPy+gPWEkWvMF0UypMo9HH6wjKZisVdzWO5Q5XLaIjOEDNvgzBgraXQabQxms+paUM7MFGtxdtn9HM04Iv/B8TRRx+tzk1NvSOdyd3pRuGbFOZmt7OJVqfHCJDHfaF3BIBocJOB3klr8K01ZGM2sMhCKUWQpAid9GpbJgGk0O/5qDd6ME2bvSNChecYOuUHgaQ0malpwmRfmRzOo7TaQrPviUoi5Yo0BVjYWFtZR1rVUMnpcrHiH8jkKrOvBiC+q+l8fq8SeB8rFLMjgjXq9XXmcgNNSoXLEvpy8QkvybyBRmKfGh3CRBnoJZTafoV6qE3J0EeHvWJ4KEZ1cgLxpU1sNJax1qcsl1PQ9BRsOiRkTTAeyGe0ATUXMgWMkPGaffaUlIJyIQ07ZDSipJ9Iib6ytqlZ+RTWOpa1cy78zjVBTGydSffabcYx/IbVN0u21b21Q2ncNfv0vmCeZBCBAWKCEI1pZmoERtLCZmwg0dNo+SzqWEKFUrw2UcP41A4EpoRcegFlSUVWz8Lh+ysrdWSZih6vO02arjDvcoxQhsOTUMHbxvIosF7qjErbDr/KG7dNx//FSIbUr5vJ907Nt/7+GijU6enxU0sSfndpafm047sTnm9/wnWcGVlS2AdIlixAj100iQSPq6iVsqiNjCCnDdPvrDHqIHukACU0sHVyBLft38OCrGE9tYRRisORCqOn6WhR3PVyBtKc9DK6hFlOeDnOE64vGElGlc1v91SJEkZDzXSSE0vO5zcc679sO6gkipaiJafZo8xrYIC6sdFdnJ+/9MmnnnoqumVubqbb77Tp1ZlKpYIUvZxhVz7/yhkE1EGVgs6bZ1EcytPQYaQzNkaKq5jKiUFHxcTsFozUJljAKYJOmPsqCkyFDAs4S48XDWXQ4QtDOZSHsojYXFbrXXZrBVtrRdYLHUXX7J4o2a6S+c6Jb6yd5Yj7cT+IU+Vyev78+Y3Na4I4duzyBmLv3qkyKfXuSJJHM0NDGK6OIZcvD+T2RnaRBe5jrJRBbchgXZD6NKZSimyVzzMKVRjZNMrVUc4NTJ1BKlKRptJMSVIyjTSGi8jnBM0SGK8vyTFsziRChpOAUM5nqIRdtMh01UI27EfRENuWSlb87rUMv/K3AcUeffRIVZe092QK+Y8omlau1qZQrkyRcQzU185hbHya88Emdk/mMTdOAxIKaeoildFJsydoIzUaJ34jKFlFn+wmsykMDw+TgtcHmmhklA2QMoV28XuETqsJs9eHRRDjjO5UuUiadrCxwiQ1vdxG0/7jg7fueB+NPXOlwdf6PNBOLODH0+nc74+MjpYnJpgS1Wnez4DZWhrIi8rwKPWMy8jkMT03yqHGRLexAr/XBEILCYWd1VyFb9vk9lV02/xMURjFEdRUBja1kRCCKtMn8mw06ytY26hjpdkd9IUci1ki7YpGOjVTg5vSFcuPD6ey+ofuum//FhGRaxn/w99UHkCpceRgPlvejGSlYKSL2YiDSq9XZ5gNplMOC+zKlmXBpGxQqW1cNrCYn0M2tJgpELgEwv7isMiP//dxRsUjRXtYWO9itFjCdC1Nr3eQZvpY7D0b7B+rnD9sSo0hcQ9qKJO/h2yyI+MjWFnsYWWtkegp9b0UneptO6c+QYNXf2j0q9/VudJcod1zNhzH++vh2ujPJb6zw+p39fLwBNIcaJrrS2jUV+lRFSsNIa+pppIAAftFEFGO9Nm0GpuoTm3jfinAyxdaZKCEFG1hpeWgZYak0UkWeoNOoXZy2Yt6LnpcLqSoXFWmnU1nCEWQcDZdWmnjxQubcamQPbmyuPHilunpicrUlsqNQChbRsp7+36oUpU+44b+Ae6Fzk5MbrG5uWi4vYZ87vx8liMpCtQ5Jj01VskwxViopMeA8sHqtNCpb2J6z52oze7GFs7YtSEd44UcxvNZZLI5MheNZzq1WfDiWq1AxI1MRAAyKZxlwQaYcL5O8NypNSy1+tb4+Pgvj45N/PmBgwf/9XOf+8LSq71/5XfZi42LJ86d/gfOY75ju7/z8Fseew9V2rsdx/3A0tKlv+2YZmiweKulIjzbw9985pv45otUn0J7DxpXAKU8hJi9IKCBaYXdmHOBoOGxapG9Is0ezULmlqPFjm2xG0P0IP7m8bPD1Q6FAh2jU8IYeHGpTVDRmuuGXz9+/HjwqU99SiwMhBK57ks9sXSiJf57/OWXz19x1GnxeXZ21tRU9ddymfSQzWGn02PqsJt+/8wGHrx3F1RNQ5YAJC+EY1s4e/oMmo062UsMSQFZpgPTpswgHTtUsCGNTlNaCP3FGh7QrFiiiao1mK5bJwuolIdh+dHJd73rXT9cG15h1rU/XrfqH3vs3vzO7ds/tl5fy2cYiYuLy3DccGDApcUG6q0+alSg2QJFFOeLM2dP4S+f/BICSugUjUxonMLzXIIZ4VJ5++wIrebsQBCR2AYyFjGlCtlWSJ4B7Y6P6di2825spu959tvlPdoDH/84/3sf7uchx47dL468ZkSuCeL1+/aVyhOV3zS0+Bc4V0gbGx6L1hlMXqIAe5wlzswvo1LaBoVrS4lGSczvhMY32mLe5t3oeTF3i5e4idhVCUkhFs4yZwexHfRFVxfKlX3Hdl1mp8ymx7Qqzr7VXc6uZqUD6/k0r7dnGh/+5wubQd/rR5oWhnoqHNWmrWOPc8b6wfXF+/++HnjggZySVX+vZ5pPLC2tkQ4v77CYOQQhtnhkEh79lefmsXf3NGR2cCEUs5k0quU81td6A6VLRxMJwdH7YpkQMTIincS8IHqi+OzQhCQRecXIBAblu0WJT0BK9+FwvvNwcWTY7mzY0Io+dZxSzxi5uiwlG7Ijrdrx0pc/+KTznD4lm1dFgjfU7rv39jearvPE0somewNnAeE5GiEMCslGHvNffF9Zs3DmUhN37mfB0xhDl7FndhILrXPIUemK+Ul0dhG53TNTqGQp3Xm9OCskeMKZm/sm5pLLk0vUVxzcBwPYGnuLaS0g6lOWtOIMlyTwJKrdUmWWmTkrBpfKcJazu/z+0Vr2C0Yz+vRVIHbvntp54eIytwwcbKguDc4AQxRrtZEqmpsNnF9cH1AiCx2V6jBeeGkF+3dP8fYKskyVO3ZspWyoY6hEgZijpmLMxLpyamYcl9aX2SA5S9PxIaMhjI7igEwmIcNuLYauDgephsNFnLsIJT2G3voatu2ZxTsfmUTLVvCN77WxuNCF5OfQdjW10YreXhxS3n4VCElKj1aK2R7TIzGMRLpl7x7s3bkNz3/zP+n5TbIJ5+NinmlTwsrqOlprEczuPhQp7pgnGB4dxVy1hCzpuMj81rlfMtI5mJybhRBU2RMEAFdszFmmKvVWnvsmsTl32Ud6fa5v4knEise9LgET9aH9YzhyexmOJ+HgriI++2+n8MpyB0Evgw1mRd/UBjVHr1x+nTx59tlb5+Yq3CXdMjszXT188HbtpVOnpIV6S6gTDJdybFBg3q+iUBzF1ltuw8mLFu4fLXNuZr+gV2uFCrYc3AmZmz+VRety03Hq+y8iYDpSpCBiigmvB2xsGQ5RPiWOyfAIOV63C/ATrnoUbtlJGEIdlIsZpiTZjhqtlHLxnsfKXFIM4dSCwTk9xMWN3tUgBBSG4d9lp/8Q7/+zX/naV98pnj0wrWey+Xw+m1HQ6TrUN9OYHJ/hSNrBF19Yxa23THNrIZOCmUpcTforPVIvWYbrnW+fOIsNh7MMo5Iw7mJSFAty0bNjOsZmE8yKOUJL0IkqrLc0h6gC05YeZjMtl8lfjEqas027XWf4Mhhjb5oe5Sr1bj4PpBS6Kp0EiIWFBc6qEH9/UJKkT5bn5pLA8f5sqJR9h2v7epnNSDzC0nMyJvO7cOLiFL7+goS3vT7DkPex0FzCBgktihUujNns2ENqZZ2ikH8cnMTmxGJnj4kkIUOpZCeD9WSFKaw4ZUp4IuS8Qk0ryJebdq5F2Tw5aXFfleNyzkJIVRCREBQq5HKe+1xh+PVe7SQZ8Ov0rl0fO3zoUE8vVn9Dk2Np+6457LplO/7xMxeRq7bwwkqA11PUCRKY3TmO89+9iNPLbZSpr0ZLBnIkCLZqmBR/mx13UCMa3ZtWxDqTFEwg812yHNfSmqozCqRkzhaJrDNa3BAyohJrR0loPPe6MetMpB8R8v1yH7oehsHvy7z9SyfPHDo7f+EhzzGlHI3JcQoT7FKoOKyDgEWZ4PR6D4eqXNvQW3fsnMB0uUApoQ0eYzX5DK9Ffmx2fHTZHMQzCZmMJApfrGioTLDuMZU43UicY8RTp4T7XFYON+QeFwv0OgmNCYh0Nk+BYEM3yvyNQHnMDSOxCD4XtP0/4nOc93FsIVfzuTTFnViCiaefGcqJiMWpMZ8vtccwnXoBLp8OWV2yC5+/iTm7Tkm+YUdoUKZbFJBicUZlgiLlh1CxBq1rB0U4XP9wrcbOTw+TuRKyGfmJ/YRPWglIJmCxvBM6TOLa1A0sLrbz7EUctm4Uhkzf//VUJvU+kzIjxbiJrUcuI0ZMFilv0u5FbDoiBSKca+WwN1PiaHoKjQajQzaIyECrHYuSgw95SYdie54nd07kOKMzjQTjcZfAKFUpQ9gECUCMmjIdJLQV15c0nHVDueDxYWbayLARmowGp0W7SZmfZTTTg3OuieOc40xy//pbvS73T5Qa+RwHec4FYj0p82bcQMAJFWgZeoMrfJ8rnXZQoRLl2qUgMcVirHYFAGE8t+b0aooRy5HFaDvzhoRFIG6SQd0TbCTkifCpWGMyTXiQQjCOafJ/rA2ymlhvCpYSa6Q8H+70OX2KVbwAfs2XEiZP6JrGR1zisowweT7FenBplLhhk0Lv0orLCLFZkQ5l0uFmOIxMuoDpYhYHpjPYOZEFbYbGlBHP8jKcBlM0PmEacSHGrEmw6BXRDy9HNyYDiXRLWLAKHRWwp3ieKfDS45TzHIOFjBfniSeyQjCur1/A/wB6ipfu7zClLAAAAABJRU5ErkJggg==" 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" 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" 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" 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" 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" 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" 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" alt="" /><br /><br />This week: 8<br /><br />It's certainly a long way down from the last reading (a season-high of 21). It's hard to tell if the bad run of form is behind Atletico, or if the bad run of form is what we should get used to for the rest of the season. It does appear any thought of finishing in the Top 4 was just an aberration. They're already eight points off fourth place and I don't really see them closing the gap at any point.<br /><br />You can follow me on Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/#!/TheKuytchPotato">@TheKuytchPotato</a><br />Listen and subscribe to <a href="http://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/the-kuytch-potato-podcast/id463899366">The Kuytch Potato Podcast</a> on iTunes
Joseph Zucker
2011-11-04T03:53:00Z
Liver n'Onions: No joy Roy, and the conceivably consistent Carroll.
Nash Larson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Liver-nOnions:-No-joy-Roy,-and-the-conceivably-consistent-Carroll./659290087102355760.html
2011-11-04T01:45:00Z
2011-11-04T01:45:00Z
<p>No joy for Roy as Ex Liverpool manager Roy Hodgson and his West Bromich Albion boys faced off against the Reds at the weekend. A fixture that the lovable uncle won last year as both the Liverpool and West Brom Manager. When at the helm of Liverpool, Roy cut a frustrated and often marooned character, given the short end of the stick in terms of transfer funds, and his ability to mold a team suffered from it. In his six months at Anfield Roy was unsuccessful in stamping his mark on the team, and a string of bad results frustrated the Liverpool faithful when expectations where higher. Aging was sped up in those six month's, as his hair grayed in frustration and hits fits of writhing on the bench spoke volumes of the issues at the club, issues - that he couldn't not change. On the ESPN Soccernet website written under his profiles picture, the caption reads</p>
<div id="post-body-6527404830268305174" class="post-body entry-content">
<div><span>"The m</span>uch-traveled English coach Roy Hodgson has effected a change in philosophy wherever he goes." This was not true during his tenure on Merseyside, plain and simple.</div>
<div>It didn't take long for his temples to smoke and the writhing fits to start on his return to Anfield, when right on cue, Luis Suarez and his slippery eel style was body checked in the box by West Brom's Jerome Thomas after he was nut-megged in the ninth minute. Seemingly soft, a penalty was awarded to the Red's aided slightly from the roar of the home support. The match commentator didn't seem convinced, and personally I thought the easy-over Suarez got a bit lucky, but to use an old cliche he does put himself about, and the tricky customer that he is paired with his Shakespearean dramatics makes it a job and a half to ref him.</div>
<div><br />With both Steven Gerrard and Jamie Carragher not playing, Charlie Adam stepped up to the spot to take the penalty, and finished in the composed Gerrard-manor, in lieu of his captain's absence. On that note, the camera pans showing Roy on the West Brom bench tugging at his overcoat, flush in the face as though something crawled up in it. </div>
<div class="separator"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-__TJZnLn-FI/TrB9_7wx_3I/AAAAAAAAAdI/S6N8FZGDOZ4/s1600/Wolverhampton-Wanderers-West-Bromwich-Albion-Roy-Hodgson-Premier-League%252Bcropped%252B.jpeg"><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-__TJZnLn-FI/TrB9_7wx_3I/AAAAAAAAAdI/S6N8FZGDOZ4/s400/Wolverhampton-Wanderers-West-Bromwich-Albion-Roy-Hodgson-Premier-League%252Bcropped%252B.jpeg" border="0" alt="" width="400" height="201" /></a></div>
<div>The problem that Liverpool have on a consistent basis is the failure to get that all important goal against the weaker sides, but the penalty allowed the LFC boys to work the ball around, with Jose Enrique looking a peach on the left side, arriving in good areas on the wing. The balls launched up to Andy Carroll looked less an act of hope and desperation with the one goal cushion, and the interchange in the midfield was silky. The Liverpool manger Kenny Dalgelish commented after the game saying,</div>
<div>"I thought we played really well, we thoroughly deserved to win the game and some of the football we played was fantastic.”</div>
<div><br />Liverpool thoroughly outclassed West Brom and to add they looked to have the luck of the draw. The 50/50 tackles and referee decisions all seemed to go in favor of the Reds. The private battle of Andy Carroll against West Brom's center back Jonas Olsson, was one to relish, as both personified physicality. </div>
<div><br />It's has been a rare site this season to see Suarez start with Carroll up top, and the hope of the deadly big man-small man attack has been anything but fruitful this season. Watching this game, I can see no reason why this partnership wouldn't work. Carroll and Suarez are the exact opposites of one another. Suarez operates from a bit deeper, linking midfield with attack, creating his goals and others. We all know what Carroll is there to do, but with restricted chances - from being unfit, and out of form - has made it hard for the Geordie striker to command a place. What the pair needs is time to cement a partnership, which could be in the cards. The potential is there; Suarez looks deadly and Carroll is gathering steam, but the telepathy is not their yet. </div>
<div class="separator"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ecWtBT8SQ5U/TrB9lRvwvcI/AAAAAAAAAdA/39qN4Xux3fM/s1600/1+Kenny+Dalglish.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ecWtBT8SQ5U/TrB9lRvwvcI/AAAAAAAAAdA/39qN4Xux3fM/s400/1+Kenny+Dalglish.jpg" border="0" alt="" width="400" height="240" /></a></div>
<div>Carroll is gathering steam having scored in the Merseyside Derby a few weeks back and for Liverpool's second goal against the weekend opponents. Carroll looked like a locomotive chugging as he barreled down the heart of the pitch to slot it home. The goal was created by a poor back pass from West Brom, in which some beautiful one touch passing from Lucas and Suarez, put Carroll in behind, to which in true nerve-racking style took a heavy touch, yet recovered quickly with a nifty toe poke past Ben Foster. The best part of that goal for me was when the camera cut to Dalgleish with a brimming smile so large and cheery he could have been an advertisement for Trident. Most different from the sulking Hodgson down the touchline, the comparison of the managers couldn't be more apparent.</div>
<div class="separator"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Bo9Ho-hiQAg/TrB-QikOSrI/AAAAAAAAAdQ/pwyNxQzYO9Y/s1600/Andy%252BCarroll%252BWest%252BBromwich%252BAlbion%252Bv%252BLiverpool%252BAYB6R3kMsZHl.jpg"><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Bo9Ho-hiQAg/TrB-QikOSrI/AAAAAAAAAdQ/pwyNxQzYO9Y/s1600/Andy%252BCarroll%252BWest%252BBromwich%252BAlbion%252Bv%252BLiverpool%252BAYB6R3kMsZHl.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a></div>
<div>As the game progressed to its climax, Liverpool looked to add onto their 2-0 lead with Suarez wriggling his way threw the shaky West Brom defense on multiple occasions. I would gather the Uruguayan is mother at Tetris, seemingly able to fit the ball and himself in the tightest angular spots, it's pure geometric brilliance!</div>
<div>Downing came the closest to making it 3 when he hit the post, which is the 10th time Liverpool has hit the post this season. </div>
<div><br />When the final whistle sounded, I felt a sense of comfort from the confident win, extending Liverpool's unbeaten streak and squashing West Brom's. Liverpool sat in 5th place for the day until Spurs defeated Queens Park Rangers on Sunday seeing the Merseyside club drop into 6th.</div>
<div><br />Liverpool face Swansea City at the weekend and I would expect that unbeaten run to continue against the newly promoted side. Captain Steven Gerrard will not be fit for the game at the weekend as he is undergoing treatment for an ankle infection. Having the constant injury problems that he does, would have proved a mammoth problem in years past, but Dalgleish has made the necessary moves to ensure that the Reds have not just back-up but quality back-up. Gerrard is not the player he was just a couple years ago, with his injuries progressing his decline, but when fit still is a top drawer player. The fact that he is out so often is less of a worry knowing that Lucas, Adam, Henderson and Suarez can step right in and do the job.</div>
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<br />If you want more check out spotkickjournalism.blogspot.com
Nash Larson
2011-11-04T01:45:00Z
Identity Crises
Luke Van Patten
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Identity-Crises/-953403331426575219.html
2011-11-02T23:20:00Z
2011-11-02T23:20:00Z
<p>I am not known to be the world’s best multi-tasker. First Person shooters are beyond me, as I lack the dexterity in my digits to walk, jump, and crawl around, while at the same time, aim and shoot at aliens and terrorists…or merely Alien Terrorists. You can ask my college roommates about my Halo credentials, where I’m pretty sure my PR was 10 kills on Valhalla. Depressing isn’t it? The act of trying to simultaneously eat food and watch TV leaves me feeling confused and helpless. Walking and talking…forget about it. I went to the hospital the last time I attempted to rub my stomach and pat the top of my head at the same time. You never heal from that.</p>
<p> But such challenges are the demands placed upon the European clubs who are currently competing in UEFA’s 2011 Champion’s League tournament. Along with the highest quality soccer one can find on this planet, the Champions League also yields unparalleled results in the art of multi-tasking. Take Manchester United, producing a less-than-enthusiastic 1-1 result against Liverpool in mid-October, then having to look forward to immediately (the next day) flying across mainland Europe to play a match against Otelul Gulati in the ominous shadows of the Transylvanian mountains. Or look at Intternazionale, playing Bologna on a Sunday in mid-September, only to find themselves at the edge of the European continent in Russia less than 24 hours later, to prepare for a match against CSKA.</p>
<p> It is a balancing act fit for few, as usually the elite teams are the only sides with the experience and maturity to handle these demands, while also producing winning results. The high level of difficulty in regards to success within the Champions League is definitely tied into the logistical challenges of travel and rest in short spaces of time, but more so, it transcends these issues and becomes completely a matter of mentality. For even when any Champions League fixture is played at home, following a home game in any team’s respective domestic leagues, there is still a tangible electricity of nerves and explosiveness to the game. The skill level and dedication of each club featured within Champions League, makes the glaring and cherished advantage of playing in front of your home fans and in your home stadium, almost obsolete. Obviously you have a bundle of sides with uncommonly hostile home environments, but for the majority, skill and determination can trump such an advantage. So even with all the domestic momentum and expenses in your corner, no result in the Liga de Campeones is at all guaranteed for any side.</p>
<p> There is no better example of the fractions that separate the teams from one another in this league, than the tie that AC Milan not too long ago salvaged at the expense of Barcelona, AT THE NOU CAMP. Yes, the Camp Nou. The Spanish Thunderdome of European football. The Italians walked out of those grounds, which have fostered the decayed corpses of far too many of Europe’s best sides, with a 2-2 draw, scoring in the 1<sup>st</sup> and 90<sup>th</sup> minutes of play. Not even Stephen Gaghan could write a soccer script like that. Every side approaches the execution of their game plan with an “assassin-like” level of focus; every side plays a group stage match as if it will be the last time they will ever breathe again. This intensified level of competition brings out the best of some clubs, big and small, and conversely, the worst in some clubs, both big and small. </p>
<p> It is most intriguing to note though, the way this Champions League rhythm if you will, affects the mentality of certain clubs. Some chug it like a blueberry Four Loko and play out of their minds, others, similarly to attempting to solve a Rubick's cube after getting pepper-sprayed, can never seem to figure it out. Something within the identities of certain teams responds to this implicit invisible electricity. An electricity which creeps into every stadium and pitch, transforming any ground into an agent of footballing history. Like Hogwarts and the wizardry/witchcraft of Harry Potter, Champions League football is less an institution, but more of an invisible universe that lay just beyond the average person’s perception of what these games appear to look or feel like. It is something both special and continuously unseen, as every season adds new chapters to both the dusted history books of Europe’s old guard, and the paperback pages of Europe’s fresher starlets.</p>
<p> This sensation has a tendency of leading to split personalities within clubs. The highs and endorphins being so unique and superior in regards to Champions League, that certain squads engage in retroactive schizophrenia, developing conflicting domestic identities and European identities. Inter Milan finds itself at the top of Group B, but in the bottom 6 of the Serie A table, a place where they haven’t found themselves in nearly 20 years. Schalke 04 displayed an uncanny knack for success in last year’s tournament, reaching the semi-finals against Man United, but enjoyed one of their most dismal domestic seasons in recent memory. Even Manchester City, a team that is experiencing great success at the top Premiership, is 3<sup>rd</sup> in Group A, in need of 3 points to keep their Champions League hopes alive. Arsenal is one of the best examples of this Dr. Jekyll-Mr. Hyde juxtaposition, as of late, enjoying most of their recent and noteworthy success in Europe’s Big Dance; with notable wins, one of those against Barcelona in the 2010 competition. Rangers and Celtic are the exact opposite, experiencing no obstacles in the path to domestic success, as either team has been the Scottish Premiership champion since the birth of the league in 1998, but on the Champions League stage, despite their skill, have progressed minimally. </p>
<p> This condition of schizophrenia is not entirely detrimental, as it allows teams the opportunity to reinvent themselves as far as their identity and capability go, as their season progresses. But the reasons for this development of multiple personalities lays encrypted in an invisible UEFACL code. What within the competition brings the best out of some teams, at the expense of their domestic campaigns? Or having the situation inverted, what is it within Champions League that brings the worst out of some teams, to the benefit of their domestic campaign? We many never know….but it doesn’t mean we cant try to understand or see it. So, like a Muggle searching for Platform 9 and ¾ at Kings Cross Station in London, I will continue to search for the nuances and reasons which contribute to these trends of Champions League schizophrenia, in hope to one day, not find a cure, but just some insight as to how and why the League’s participants undergo these radical fluctuations of identity and habit. All these questions and more are covered on today’s November 2<sup>nd</sup> broadcast at World Football Daily. JOIN US IN THE CHAMBER OF SECRETS.<br /><br />Your friend and teammate,<br /><br />Luke Van Patten </p>
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Luke Van Patten
2011-11-02T23:20:00Z
Premier League Recap (October 29-31)
Adam Johnson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Premier-League-Recap-October-29-31/-977903080509326041.html
2011-10-31T21:55:00Z
2011-10-31T21:55:00Z
<p>The goals came flooding in this weekend, as there were surprise wins and late drama a plenty. The big match was Chelsea-Arsenal but first Manchester United’s response to last week.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Everton 0-1 Manchester United</span></p>
<p>Clearly the big question going into this one was how United would come back after their embarrassing performance last time out against Man City. They got the win against Everton, but weren’t necessarily convincing in the process. Chicharito got the goal in the same way he gets most of his goals, by just being in the right place at the right time. This game was up for grabs and United’s defense looked rusty still. The most notable chance for Everton was a Leighton Baines free kick that shook the crossbar. The home fans left disappointed as it stayed at 1-0.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Chelsea 3-5 Arsenal</span></p>
<p>This was the most glamorous match-up of the weekend and it was safe to say it did not disappoint. This was an incredibly open game with both defenses not looking very good. Fernando Torres was coming back from suspension but it was Frank Lampard who got the opening goal of this thriller after a perfect Juan Mata cross. Then the goals started to flow. First Robin van Persie leveled for Arsenal before John Terry made it 2-1 at halftime. Andre Santos made it 2-2 then for the Gunners. Theo Walcott scored a goal to make a running back proud as he trucked on after being knocked over and split the defense before powering in a shot past Petr Cech. Mata came back and tied for Chelsea at 3-3. It was RVP’s day again though as he got two more to win it: the first thanks to a Terry slip and the second on a counter attack with Chelsea pressing forward. Don’t look now, but here comes Arsenal.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Manchester City 3-1 Wolves</span></p>
<p>This was just another professional win and performance from the City machine. It was 0-0 at halftime but you could feel the home side coming on. They got the first goal thanks to a Wayne Hennessey goalkeeping mistake that saw the ball fall right to Edin Dzeko who tucked it away for the lead. David Silva then had a snap shot saved but it fell right to Alex Kolarov who tapped in for 2-0. Wolves gained a huge boost when City captain Vincent Kompany was sent off and Stephen Hunt scored the ensuing penalty. Adam Johnson made sure that City would take the three points, however, with a blast in stoppage time.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Norwich 3-3 Blackburn</span></p>
<p>This six-goal thriller saw the two teams split the spoils 3-3. One of my favorite players in the league, David Hoilett, got the only goal of the first half on a great solo effort. Steve Morrison would equalize for Norwich early in the second half, but Yakubu then Chris Samba made it 3-1 to Blackburn. Norwich fought on and got one back in the 81’ through Bradley Johnson via a wicked deflection. The match looked over until a handball on a set piece gave Grant Holt the chance to get a draw from the penalty spot. He took that chance and Carrow Road erupted.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Sunderland 2-2 Aston Villa</span></p>
<p>Both of these clubs haven’t quite found their identity this season. Stilyian Petrov scored on a sick curler to give Villa the lead but youngster, Connor Wickham, made it one all for Sunderland. A pair of headers, first from Villa’s Richard Dunne, the second from the Black Cat’s Stephane Sessegnon, made this final scoreline 2-2.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Swansea 3-1 Bolton</span></p>
<p>Swansea picked up a nice home win against the lowly Bolton. Brendan Rodger’s side played good football and it helped when Ricardo Gardner was sent off for a second yellow. Joe Allen scored the first goal and drew a penalty, which Scott Sinclair put away for 2-0. Danny Graham then scored twice, once for Bolton on an own goal and once for his side, to see this one out, 3-1.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Wigan 0-2 Fulham</span></p>
<p>American Clint Dempsey gave Fulham the lead early on. Roberto Matinez’s Wigan is on a terrible run right now and Moussa Dembele made it worse when he scored for 2-0 to pick up the away win.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">West Brom 0-2 Liverpool</span></p>
<p>Manager Kenny Dalglish decided to try out the Luis Suarez and Andy Carroll combo up front for Liverpool again. It wasn’t necessarily pretty but you could say that it worked. Suarez was central to everything Liverpool did and it was he who drew the penalty that was undoubtedly questionable. Charlie Adam put said penalty away and it was 1-0. Carroll, who has come under some criticism for his play recently, popped up just before halftime and got the second goal on a nice finish after a poor first touch. West Brom threw plenty of men forward in the second half but the Reds held on for a clean sheet and three points.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Tottenham 3-1 QPR</span></p>
<p>This match felt like one that Gareth Bale would go off in. The winger did just that as Tottenham continually attacked down the left flank, exploiting the QPR defense. The Welshman got the first goal for Spurs while fellow left-footer, Rafael van der Vaart, continued his scoring streak for the second. There were more good passing moves from Spurs but QPR started to play with them in the second half. Eventually a goal came out of QPR’s play, thanks to Jay Bothroyd, on a set piece. Much like Manchester City, though, Spurs would slam any comeback door shut when Bale got his second after some more excellent passing.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Stoke 1-3 Newcastle</span></p>
<p>The Newcastle revolution just may be for real and Demba Ba may be their leader. Alan Pardew’s men won again, this time at Stoke where nobody has an easy game. It was Ba’s hat trick that sealed the points while Jon Walters got a consolation goal for Stoke.</p>
<p>This week’s team of the week is Arsenal and their captain Robin van Persie was good enough to pick up player of the week. RVP scored three more goals to bring his tally to 28 in the last 27 Premier League games. He is on fire and Arsenal is starting to look pretty good. So are their North London neighbors, Tottenham, as well as new boys, Swansea and Norwich. This season is starting to shape up and the matches are becoming bigger and bigger.</p>
Adam Johnson
2011-10-31T21:55:00Z
Trick or Treat?
Luke Van Patten
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Trick-or-Treat/33819606163455817.html
2011-10-31T20:22:00Z
2011-10-31T20:22:00Z
<p>On a day filled with results so typical of an early season Saturday in the Premiership, the Arsenal and Chelsea throw down at Stamford Bridge sent a quiet and appropriately Halloween-themed message to the rest of the world: in England’s top flight, nothing is what it appears to be. It seems as though many of the Premierships heavyweights are donning cheap costumes on a weekly basis; masks to cover poor defending, capes to conceal sloppy organization, velvet pants to hide legs of inexperience, and fake moustaches to disguise words of doubt, as affirmations of team identity. </p>
<p> From City’s embarrassment of United, to United’s man-handling of Arsenal, to this weekend’s surprise result at Stamford Bridge, the early stages of the league season have been a round robin of each expected title contender enjoying a moment of utter disaster and failure; burning glaring holes in the championship armor each of these teams attempts to wear. Even AVB, with his radiating bravado of originality and self-assuredness, looked confused and out of place with his tactics and approach on Saturday. Reminiscent of a grown ass man in a d’Artagnan costume at a high school Halloween party; chain-eating mini snicker bars with shifty eyes in a dark corner, rather than attempting to conversate with any of the promiscuously dressed females dancing next to the Ipod station. </p>
<p> John Terry came to the party dressed as a version of his old, Mourinho era self, only to blow his cover in an attempt to receive a back pass under absolutely no pressure, that went horrifically wrong. In a fit of embarrassment, he drove under the influence, and left the party early. Though he was on the right side of the result Saturday, Per Mertesacker decided to don no costume at all and show up as his scarecrow-like self, a decision that comprehensively terrorized anyone who laid eyes on this game. He should’ve bought and worn the “I am a semi-qualified and experienced footballer with fast feet” costume that they are selling at Party City for 5.99, just to show that he is trying to make an effort. Cheap bastard. </p>
<p> But more than anyone, or any group, that pretended to be something it wasn’t on Saturday, it was Chelsea’s backline that crashed the Halloween party the hardest. Ashley Cole came dressed as Bruno Mars, to the delight of all the female spectators and Arsenal’s front six as well. I think Boswinga was a variation of Dracula; paying too much attention to the fake….oh wait, never mind, unibrow he bought to tie his costume together. It would have benefited his club greatly if he had decided to wear some fangs as well, just to bring an added bite to the defense that they missed so painfully. A high line, poor communication, and lack of assertiveness, saw a Chelsea team that was expected to pose significant problems to the Manchester juggernauts at the top of the table, drop points, AT HOME, to an Arsenal side that many had thrown to wolves and written off as helpless children.</p>
<p> The glib French cackles of Arsene Wenger floated through the London air and into the cracked windows of countless Chelsea fans on Saturday night, adding an ominous and appropriately frightening element to this Blues loss. As AVB tossed and turned on the soft Egyptian linens which cover the bed in his lavish townhouse, the haunting words of the Frenchman crept their way into his mind: “I told you so…I told you so….I told you so…”</p>
<p> The most intriguing element of these unexpected results and performances from sides that have built their reputation the past couple seasons on being the some of the most organized and disciplined clubs in the world, is whether these shortcomings are a result of their own lack of focus within, or just a failure to cope with opposition that are adjusting their game plans and simply out playing, and out willing them to 3 points. It was nice to see Arsenal on the reverse side of the charade though, after that circus United put on at their expense. This result was an affirmation that the boys from North London still have a lot to play for, and in addition, are capable of doing it the progressively forward and offensive minded Arsenal way.</p>
<p> To give candy to all the kids and be completely fair, the game could’ve gone either direction, had some bounces been thrown Chelsea’s way at the beginning of the match. The Gunners though showed some unexpected resolve and weathered the October storm, letting the adherence to their game plan speak for them. Mr. Wenger was the Dumbledore costume to AVB’s musketeer get up, showing calmness and confidence in an approach and execution that backed up his expectations for this group of young Gunners. This faithfulness in the French maestro’s tactics from the peanut gallery, proved to work out for club, momentarily putting off the bloodthirsty witch hunt for Arsene that was moving along quite rapidly prior to this result. </p>
<p> The Frenchman has bought himself a little bit more time before the mob comes looking to burn him at the stake once again. But after eight wins in their last nine matches, the Duttlenheim Dumbledore’s magic and continuous rubbing of that crystal ball seems to be materializing into something nice. Only time will tell as to where this zombie virus of poor results is originating from; the top teams inability to prepare for such moments, or the challenger’s willingness to prove themselves-at any cost.</p>
<p> But at this rate, I can expect to see some kind of Halloween act like this every weekend into the winter and springtime. Where a team attempting to encapsulate and embody the stature and looks of a championship side, is not only knocked by its opposition, but knocked so hard that this costume and façade of “the Champion” is simultaneously thrown to the pitch and shattered. Maybe the Citizens are next to join the party. Kun Aguero could do a flawless Eddie Munster, as Carlitos and Silva could pull off the Wolfman and Fievel, respectively. </p>
<p> So nothing is what it seems at the top of the table in EPL, and in hindsight, what better way to have things at this point in time? Sophie came into the studio today smiling a tad more brightly than she usually does, rocking out to the Kings of Leon a little more jovially than she usually would. She has no qualms with the erratic nature of this result, as her Gunners have found a recent spell of decent form and a reason to believe in the rest of the season. But as she affirms on today’s <a href="https://www.worldfootballdaily.com/site">show</a>, “I believed it was possible since Day 1…” Are these timely, boasting words from a Gunner with newfound swag? Or a testament of belief from a fan that still thinks this is a top 4 side? Robert Burns, in residence Man United supporter, and James Cranford, our audio engineer and Blue Colour podcast architect, will adamantly work to deflate Sophie’s newfound sense of confidence and reassure her that Arsenal will surely once again be on the reverse side of the reoccurring Halloween costume party.<br /><br />Until next time...your friend and teammate....<br /><br />Luke Van Patten </p>
<p><br /><br />Follow me and my articles at twitter! https://twitter.com/#!/@thisishleb</p>
Luke Van Patten
2011-10-31T20:22:00Z
The 12th Man
A.J. Nelson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/The-12th-Man/-911410715909139300.html
2011-10-31T18:24:00Z
2011-10-31T18:24:00Z
<p>Typically, you hear more about the 12<sup>th</sup> man in the other football, the American kind. Seattle, in particular, is known for housing one of the loudest group of fans (for both the NFL and the MLS). While traveling in Spain recently, I was fortunate enough to be able to attend games at not only Real Madrid’s Santiago Bernabeu, but also to Barcelona’s Camp Nou. I have been to many sporting events in my lifetime, but the noise that the fans in these two stadiums can make raises the idea of the “12<sup>th</sup> man” to a whole new level.</p>
<p>The “12<sup>th</sup> man” can bolster the home team, influence the referees, and make playing unnerving for traveling teams. People often quote the reason for Real Madrid’s and Barcelona’s dominance is their money and ability to purchase the best players. That certainly has a significant impact, but the 80,000+ fans filling their stadiums week in and week out from every part of the world share in their success. Even the players regularly acknowledge it. It is not a requirement for the players to complement the fans (although it is likely encouraged by their publicists). However, when you hear them speak, especially Iker Casillas and Sergio Ramos who have been at Real Madrid for years, it is clear they understand the importance of the fans in their success. Alvaro Arbeloa mentioned it in a recent interview when speaking on social media, noting that although he can’t respond to all the fans sending him messages, he pays close attention and takes encouragement from their good wishes and support. Kaka also recently gushed at how happy he was by the fans’ appreciation for him and how it has made a difference when he takes the pitch. </p>
<p>The 12<sup>th</sup> man was evident this weekend as well. Madrid was taking on Real Sociedad at their home pitch, Anoeta, in beautiful San Sebastian. It is a small field, close to a third of the size of the Santiago Bernabeu and as the game started, even with ESPN minimizing the background noise, you could feel the volume emanating from the stadium. When Gonzalo Higuain scored a scorcher of a goal in the 8<sup>th</sup> minute, the commentators, Madrid fans and neutral fans alike, all assumed that Madrid was poised for another multi-goal fest, perhaps yet another hat trick for Higuain. The Sociedad fans knew better. You could hear their whistles in the background, especially when a call would go against their players. They had every faith that their team could hold their own. And hold their own they did. </p>
<p>When the 90 minutes concluded, Sociedad would lose, but lose admirably. The only goal scored would be Higuain’s first one and, although Madrid would have the lion’s share of possession, Sociedad would create a handful of chances of their own and make the game worth watching. Even José Mourinho recognized the team’s effort and that of their fans: "Our opponent, spurred by a great atmosphere, made things hard for us to the very last minute.” So, here’s to you 12<sup>th</sup> man - at the Bernabeu, Anoeta or elsewhere around the world - you matter!</p>
<p><em>A.J. Nelson can be found on Twitter @FootieObsessed</em></p>
A.J. Nelson
2011-10-31T18:24:00Z
Everton v. United Review: Glad That's Over With
James W. Hollis
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Everton-v.-United-Review:-Glad-Thats-Over-With/-798282193173116986.html
2011-10-30T00:58:00Z
2011-10-30T00:58:00Z
<p>Everton played fairly well, especially at the end of the first and the middle of the second half. Looking at the statistics from the match, you would think that Everton completely dominated the game (19 shots to United’s 7, 52% possession, 4 to 1 on corners). Yet, Everton again showed little cutting edge and the gulf in class told as United held onto a one-goal advantage to take the three points. The closest Everton came to drawing blood was Baines’ free kick that hit the crossbar. Nearly every other shot was right at De Gea.</p>
<p>The United match again highlighted the weaknesses in Everton’s team:</p>
<p>1<strong>. The back line is suspect.</strong> I am not certain whether it is a lack of confidence, chemistry or focus but another lapse in marking cost Everton the match. Defensive mistakes have riddled the past six matches and the teams with real quality have punished us for it (think Chicharito v. Zamora).</p>
<p>2. <strong>We lack creativity in the midfield. </strong>Fellaini was immense today and Rodwell has been coming around lately but Leon Osman is our major creative force after the departures of Arteta and Pienaar (I’m not ready to put Drenthe in that discussion yet) and his poor performances have impaired our play, especially today.</p>
<p>3. <strong>Poor wing play.</strong> Leighton Baines has been uncharacteristically quiet this season. This is due in large part to poor play from the wingers. Seamus Coleman was fairly good going forward against United, Bily was pedestrian, Ross Barkely isn’t quite there yet and Magaye Gueye was only on for a short time. Baines doesn’t have a relationship with any of our wingers that is close to what he had with Steven Pienaar. This has tamed our once-potent attack down the left thus far this season.</p>
<p>4. <strong>Lack of depth.</strong> I don’t need to belabor this point. We all know why we have no depth but it’s put into sharp relief against the teams like United when we have to bring on unproven teenagers while they bring on seasoned internationals (Nani, Berbatov and Valencia versus Barkley, Vellios and Gueye).</p>
<p>Ped on the <a href="http://www.followtonians.com/">Followtonians Podcast</a> made a fine point on the last show: he said that Everton is in the process of developing a new style of play now that Pienaar and Arteta are no longer with us. We’ve seen glimpses of this during the past month: Fellaini is continuing to impose himself on the midfield and Jack Rodwell is looking more and more like a quality player. However, through these glimpses we have also seen the holes in Everton’s team. Crafting a new style is difficult at the best of times but it is made all the more challenging against the strongest teams in the league. Now that this stretch is over, I expect Everton’s play to stabilize if only because the tactics we’ve been employing will work better against teams of lesser quality. Keep the faith.<br /><br />Follow me on twitter: www.twitter.com/jwhollis<br /><br />Check out my website: www.knowmersey.com </p>
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James W. Hollis
2011-10-30T00:58:00Z
Six Degrees of Sporting Separation
Luke Van Patten
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Six-Degrees-of-Sporting-Separation/290636676870879172.html
2011-10-28T20:29:00Z
2011-10-28T20:29:00Z
<p>As I sit here in the quiet aftermath of what some are calling one of “The Greatest Games in Baseball History”, I struggle to gather and arrange my thoughts in a sensible manner. In an ending which looked everything like the prolific template all of us expect October baseball to be, the Cardinals composed a three act, come-from-behind victory to force a Game 7 against the Rangers tonight in St. Louis.</p>
<p> At first I was skeptical of these grandeur claims. It doesn’t take a genius to know that the institution of Major League Baseball is not where it used to be. A dwindling fan base, unbalanced markets, and performance-enhancing illegal substance abuse have continuously held back the growth and reputation of the League in the 2000’s. The quick manner in which this game was thrown into the celestial pecking order of “The Greatest Baseball Games Ever”, screams desperation to me. </p>
<p> The same way I was skeptical when the pundits called the final day of the regular season this year the “greatest singular day in regular season baseball history…”, when the entirety of America got to pretend the Orioles tasting momentary success by fucking the Red Sox was a momentous and historical occasion. For a sport who’s image and pulse have been drowning in the waves of their conservative traditions, claims such as these are panicked gasps for air that are losing credence as their frequency grows. Be ready and prepared for the 2012 season’s Opening Day to be “The Greatest Opening Day in the Rich and Magnificent History of Baseball”.</p>
<p> But like a familiar Phoenix, rising from the ashes of million dollar contracts and the Mitchell report, everything that is sacred, pure, and entertaining about Baseball was on display Thursday evening. For a moment, the entirety of the 162 game, 7 month season seemed appropriately compressed into a back and forth dialogue of brilliance and resilience by both clubs involved.</p>
<p> But if Game 6 has already etched itself into the history of the MLB, how will Game 7 follow it? How can Game 7 follow it? If the last day of this year’s regular season was the greatest in the League’s near 200-year-old history, can I expect similar fireworks in 2012? Can I expect the playoffs following it to be equally as engaging? For many reasons, these sound and feel like claims rooted more in giddy excitement than reason or fact. When you build up passing moments such as these to mean so much, than the acts that follow bear the burden of playing a game of catch up that they usually never win.</p>
<p> Football federations and correspondents all over the world seem to avoid these majestic and conclusive claims of “greatness” in relation to singular soccer games, for one glaring reason: this drama is expected. The Premiership in particular, though lacking a playoff style system, is the best example of a league that has perfected the art of “final day of the season” drama. In so many ways it is the calculated distribution of points amongst 20 clubs over 380 games that boils down to attaining a tie or win on the final match day, either excruciatingly difficult or serendipitously magnificent. It is the teams at the bottom of the table that generate the trademark moments for every Premiership season, as the eventual league champion has usually set themselves apart several points from the rest by the last match day. </p>
<p>Imagine how much sicker it would’ve have been if Baltimore was playing Boston not only to keep the Red Sox out of the playoffs, but also to keep their spot in the AL East. Meaning a loss would make them spend their next season in AAA. Getting laughed at. Making no cash money. Hating life. If the nations’ MLB fans raving about these end of the season fireworks were familiar with the Premiership, than they would probably have orgasmic convulsions on the final day of every EPL season. What a mess! Using this lens, the institutions of soccer and baseball appear as the antitheses of one another, especially in the context of each games rules, structure, and culture.</p>
<p> But what is beautiful about the galaxy of sports is finding similarities and perspective between planets that are oblivious to one another’s existence. Like Steven Hawking listlessly searching the black void of space’s emptiness for signs and occurrences which will help us decipher our own existence, bridging gaps between sports that represent each other’s polar opposites, taps into the primal thread that links every competition together; the space where human nature and technical execution meet in the cross hairs of a structured game. From NASCAR to Croquet, Basketball to Golf, Bowling to Hot Dog Eating, and Soccer to Baseball, each juxtaposition carries a shared, implicit code of homogeneity with its opposite. No matter how hard to see, or unbelievable each connection may be.</p>
<p> World Football Daily’s Friday show pits itself at the intersection of two sporting planets, and what better person than the Oakland A’s and Major League Baseball’s Billy Beane, to help us navigate our way through the intergalactic highways of sport, and discuss both the spaces that divide, and the threads which link Footy and Baseball to one another? Beane is within his own sport, considered an anomaly and outlier. His practice of Sabermetrics in the 1990’s redefined the way people approach General Management and the methods for building a roster in Major League Baseball.</p>
<p> And not surprisingly, Mr. Beane ultimately fulfills his image as a conundrum within the MLB, as he is a die-hard soccer fan and regular listener of and premium subscriber to World Football Daily. The most glaring difference between the two sporting institutions, as Beane points out, is the pace at which both games are played. Baseball ‘s rhythm is staccato, having continuous START and STOP breaks in the game play where the probabilities tied into the numerical outcome, or “Success” of the game, change after every break in play. Soccer conversely is a free flowing sport, where tactics are exchanged at a faster and more rapid pace. Even though the rhythm of the game can at times seem slow, the probabilities are dealt with in quick passing moments, almost blending them together and making these expectations obsolete.</p>
<p> Sophie and Robert ask the question, despite the differences in the two sports’ rhythms, can the application of “metrics” in football yield positive and conclusive results, as they did so visibly for Beane and Co. in Oaktown? As Billy so calmly educates and impresses at the same time, he tells them to remember: “Stats and metrics are different.” There seems to be, more so in soccer than baseball, “X-Factors” found within certain players that don’t materialize into visible stats of positive production, but still constitute that player extremely valuable to each coach or manager’s winning game plan. In a way, Billy explains, these “X-Factors” are the things Sabremetrics looks to measure and keep track of.</p>
<p> Great minds such as Mr. Beane’s, helped inch along the slow yet inevitable evolution of baseball, a sport, which very much like soccer, is rooted to its traditions, in at times detrimental ways. Maybe an Oakland A’s type, statistical revolution is all domestic footy here in America needs in order to explode. Or maybe it is Billy Beane buying the San Jose Earthquakes. Just a thought! The work and interests of galactic sporting explorers and pioneers such as Billy, will continually bridge the interstellar gap that has for so long set baseball and soccer apart. Perhaps the application of “metrics” in football will only bring these distant planets a couple millimeters closer and more acquainted with one another, as they float on in the comforting black emptiness that is the universe of sports.</p>
<p> Check out the amazing time we spent with Mr. Billy Bean on today’s <a href="/site">show</a>, along with countless other tasty nuances of world football. I am, in honor of the MLB, officially calling this “The Greatest Blog Entry in the History of 2011 Blogs”. Now we’ll see how my next piece sizes up to this one...uh oh....Until next time….<br /><br />Your friend and teammate,<br /><br />Luke Van Patten </p>
Luke Van Patten
2011-10-28T20:29:00Z
Not Forwards, Wingers!
Shane Smith
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Not-Forwards,-Wingers!/-857527858512638498.html
2011-10-27T21:25:00Z
2011-10-27T21:25:00Z
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Much has been said about the need for Spurs to find a new crop of forward performers. A cursory reading of several blogs indicates agreement that the Spurs have a wealth of midfielders. This is true if we define the term midfielder in a broad sense. There are twelve midfielders registered on Spurs’s first team. Harry’s preferred formation is a 4-4-2 or a 4-4-1-1 when VDV starts. Both formations require two dedicated wingers. Barring any injuries, Spurs starting lineup has two wingers that would strike terror in the hearts of any fullbacks in the world. Gareth Bale and Aaron Lennon are two old fashion wingers who can blow by a fullback, or two, with shear pace and acceleration to put in a cross. Beyond these players we have no true Premier League ready wingers. We can put VDV, Modric, Pienaar, and Kranjar on the field but they will play central left or central right, not true wide men getting to the bi-line and crossing. Danny Rose is an upcoming contender but he isn’t ready to start in the Premier League yet. I have two suggestions on who our next midfield purchase should be and why.</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">My first man is<strong> Mathieu Valbuena. </strong>At 27 years old he could be considered something of a late bloomer. He obtained his first French national team call-up last year and has been a regular competitor ever since. He is described as a player with explosive pace, great quickness, fantastic technical game, and an absolutely tenacious style of play. Valbuena’s qualities were witnessed in the Champions League game against Arsenal recently. Valbuena is not one of the top earners at OM so his wage demands can likely be met. Given his age in his late twenties, his next transfer would be a very important career decision for Mathieu. Tottenham’s league position in January or summer 2012 would be vital for a transfer to take place.</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">My second choice is 20 year old<strong> Xherdan Shaqiri. </strong>This Kosovo born Swiss international is an undoubted talent by all who have seen him. Shaqiri is left-footed, but equally comfortable on either wing or playmaking in the hole. I put his transfer and wage eligibility at “very possible” for two reasons. First, Basel offers limited wages compared to the EPL, so even Tottenham would be able to provide a better salary for the youngster if he is looking to break into a top league in Europe. Second, his transfer would be reasonable for a top prospect, as long as Real Madrid and Man City choose other targets.</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">The addition of any one of these two players would undoubtedly add to the overall unit quality, but would also push Aaron and Gareth to perform consistently at a higher standard or risk losing their place.</p>
Shane Smith
2011-10-27T21:25:00Z
Chelsea Opposition Scout Report: Arsenal
Lamin Oo
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Chelsea-Opposition-Scout-Report:-Arsenal/447496441159563163.html
2011-10-27T16:41:00Z
2011-10-27T16:41:00Z
<p>Arsene Wenger’s Arsenal will visit Stamford Bridge this weekend for a potential thriller of a football game. With their captain Robin van Persie leading by example, they seem to have finally steadied their ship that was going through a deadly storm at the start of the season. The Gunners’ away form, though, is still shaky.</p>
<p>It may be van Persie who finishes the job but Arsenal’s attacking build up owes a lot to the silky distribution of their creative midfielders and the movement of their wide players. “It’s elementary, my dear Arsene,” would have been the response if Sherlock Holmes were to diagnose most of Arsenal’s defensive woes this season. And they defend set-pieces using zonal marking just like Chelsea do, which means they have been as bad at it as Chelsea have been too. Here’s my scout report.</p>
<p><strong style="color: #000000; font-family: Georgia,Utopia,'Palatino Linotype',Palatino,serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; background-color: #f2efe6;"><em style="background-color: yellow;">Current Form...</em></strong></p>
<p><strong style="color: #000000; font-family: Georgia,Utopia,'Palatino Linotype',Palatino,serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; background-color: #f2efe6;"><em style="background-color: yellow;"><img style="margin: 5px auto; display: block;" src="/images/blog/Arsenal Last Five League Results.jpg" alt="" /></em></strong></p>
<p>If we look at Arsenal's recent results in all competition, they seem to have fully recovered from their ill start of the season: they have won 7 out of the last 8 games. They are doing well in the cup competitions and steadily climbing the league table. Their captain Robin van Persie is in irresistible form, scoring 7 of the 15 league goals Arsenal has scored this season. So, high-flying Arsenal, right? Well..., not quite.</p>
<p><img style="margin: 5px auto; display: block;" src="/images/blog/Arsenal Last Eight.jpg" alt="" /></p>
<p>This recent surge does not accurately show Arsenal's away form. In those last eight games in the Premier League, Champions League and Carling Cup, the Gunners have played only TWO away games -- one against Tottenham (2-1 loss for Arsenal) in the Premier League and another against Marseille (0-1 victory for Arsenal by a 90th minute goal by Ramsey).<br style="color: #000000; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; background-color: #f2efe6;" /><br style="color: #000000; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; background-color: #f2efe6;" />The game at Stamford Bridge obviously is an away fixture for the Gunners and it might be wise to look at their away performances to judge how they will fair against Chelsea. In the league, Arsenal have played four away games, losing three and drawing one. The draw dates back to the opening game of the season against Newcastle United. In those four away league games, Arsenal's talisman Robin van Persie has scored ONE goal (a meaningless goal against Manchester United who won the game 8-2).<br style="color: #000000; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; background-color: #f2efe6;" /><br style="color: #000000; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; background-color: #f2efe6;" />If you make a league table using only home results, Arsenal are fourth. If you make a league table using only away results, Arsenal are eighteenth -- aka relegation status. So, it is fair to say that Arsenal's current form -- which, for some<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><em style="color: #000000; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; background-color: #f2efe6;">strange<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></em>reason, coincides neatly with that of van Persie -- is somewhat flattered by their home victories.</p>
<p><strong style="color: #000000; font-family: Georgia,Utopia,'Palatino Linotype',Palatino,serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; background-color: #f2efe6;"><em style="background-color: yellow;">Last Time Out...</em></strong></p>
<p><strong style="color: #000000; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; background-color: #f2efe6;"><em style="background-color: yellow;"><img style="margin: 5px auto; display: block;" src="/images/blog/Arsenal Starting XI vs Stoke.jpg" alt="" /></em></strong></p>
<p>Against Stoke last weekend, Arsenal started with a 4-2-3-1 formation. Chamakh led the attack as the lone striker while van Persie was benched/rested. Gervinho and Walcott were on wing duties as Ramsey roamed in the pocket of space right behind the striker. Arteta was the deep-lying playmaker and Song was the shield in front of his back four. But, this, like most starting formations, was not set in stones.</p>
<p><img style="margin: 5px auto; display: block;" src="/images/blog/Heat Map First Half Arsenal.jpg" alt="" width="520" height="275" /></p>
<p>Arteta and Ramsey constantly switched positions; one dropping back when the other moved forward. Gervinho played very central for a "left winger" and he shifted between the left and right flanks. Chamakh, who was supposed to be the lone striker, played with his back towards the goal and dropped very deep to connect with his midfielders.<br style="color: #000000; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; background-color: #f2efe6;" /><br style="color: #000000; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; background-color: #f2efe6;" />If you look at the heat map above, you can see that all four attacking midfielders -- Arteta, Ramsey, Gervinho and Walcott -- are way higher up the pitch than Chamakh (black circle). The space opened up on the left (yellow rectangle) due to Gervinho's central movement was covered by left back Santos.<br style="color: #000000; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; background-color: #f2efe6;" /><br style="color: #000000; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; background-color: #f2efe6;" />Chamakh did OK: he played his hold-the-ball-up game well and got his midfielders to advance. But he was poor at finishing. Arsenal scored when Ramsey's accurate chip met Gervinho's clever run (more on that in the next section) and conceded from a Stoke free kick. The game was even until van Persie came on for Chamakh. The Dutch striker played further forward than Chamakh and his clinical finishing won the game for the Emirates faithfuls. Barring injuries, van Persie will undoubtedly start against Chelsea come this Saturday.</p>
<p><strong style="color: #000000; font-family: Georgia,Utopia,'Palatino Linotype',Palatino,serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; background-color: #f2efe6;"><em style="background-color: yellow;">Goal Threats...</em></strong></p>
<p>When we think of Arsenal's goal threat at this moment, it is, understandably, hard to look beyond Robin van Persie. After all, he is the club's top goalscorer in all competition at 8 goals, which is four times the amount of goals scored by the players ranked second on that list. He has scored six out of the last nine league goals in Arsenal's name. He is clearly the player on form. However, there is more to Arsenal's goal threat than van Persie's current form. I want to focus on two things: (1) the passing and vision of their creative midfielders and (2) the speed and movements of their wide players (Gervinho in particular).</p>
<p><img style="margin: 5px auto; display: block;" src="/images/blog/ARS G1.jpg" alt="" width="530" height="324" /></p>
<p>Arsenal scored the first goal against Stoke City by combining the accurate passing of Ramsey (yellow square) and the clever movement of Gervinho (red square). Ramsey finds time and space outside the Stoke's 18-yard box while the Stoke defense sits deep. Gervinho, the "left winger," finds himself in a center forward position unmarked. Ramsey chips the ball over the four Stoke defenders (almost reminiscent of Juan Mata's chip for Fernando Torres to score against Swansesa). Gervinho controls and scores. This was not the first time Arsenal pulled this move. There was an identical scenario involving Ramsey and Gervinho a few minutes before this goal.</p>
<p>This goal could have been prevented either by closing Ramsey down quickly or by closely tracking Gervinho's run. These two precautions are exactly what Chelsea will have to take against the Gunners at Stamford Bridge. Bold it. Underline it. Highlight it. Do whatever you want. <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Close down Ramsey</strong></span>.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Be aware of Gervinho's movement</strong></span>.</p>
<p><img style="margin: 5px auto; display: block;" src="/images/blog/ARS G2.jpg" alt="" width="520" height="321" /></p>
<p>What makes Arsenal's attack particularly threatening is that they have not one but two players who have the vision and ability to make accurate passes in behind the opposition's defense. This time, Arteta takes his turn. The Spaniard (yellow square) picks up the ball from Song and makes a beautiful long pass to (who else?) Gervinho (red square), now, on the right wing (almost reminiscent of <a href="http://carefreechronicles.blogspot.com/2011/10/matas-vision-and-pass-for-chelseas-fist.html">this Mata pass to Cole against Everton</a>). Again, note that Stoke's deep lying defense allowed Arteta time and space to make that pass.</p>
Once he gets the ball under control, Gervinho dribbles the ball down the right and lays it off to van Persie (light blue square) who has made a smart run towards the near post and scores from a tight angle. Different goal, same story: clever pass from midfield combines with Gervinho's movement. Note to Chelsea: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Close down Arteta</strong></span>. <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Be aware of Gervinho's movement</strong></span>.<br /><br />Now that we have seen what this "left winger" has done right down the middle and on the right, let's he how he does in the flank where he's supposed to be.<br /><br /><img style="margin: 5px auto; display: block;" src="/images/blog/ARS G3.jpg" alt="" width="533" height="331" /><br />This was an Arsenal counter attack. Arshavin (yellow square) brings the ball out on the left. Gervinho (red square) makes a run in between the two Stoke defender. The Russian midfielder taps the ball into the space in behind the Stoke defense for Gervinho to exploit. The goalscorer van Persie (light blue sqaure), meanwhile, has been watched by a Stoke defender.<br /><br /><img style="margin: 5px auto; display: block;" src="/images/blog/ARS G4.jpg" alt="" width="509" height="314" /><br />
<p>The Ivorian winger dribbles down the left before cutting back for his captain to finish off Stock. Now that you've read it up to this point, you probably aren't surprised that all three of Gervinho's assist in the league so far are put into the opposition's net by Robin van Persie?</p>
<p>Now, this is Arsenal's attack against a defensive Stoke City. Chelsea will be more proactive against the Gunners and <a href="http://www.zonalmarking.net/2011/10/26/chelsea-villas-boas-pressing/">the effective pressing by the Blues</a> will most likely eliminate the Arsenal's threat in the first two scenarios (aka the pass over the defense). But, since Chelsea plays a high defensive line to complement the pressing game, the speed and the movement of Arsenal's wide men (as in the third scenario) will most likely be the biggest threat from Chelsea's perspective.</p>
<p><strong style="color: #000000; font-family: Georgia,Utopia,'Palatino Linotype',Palatino,serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; background-color: #f2efe6;"><em style="background-color: yellow;">How They Concede...</em></strong></p>
<p>Usually in this section, I pick out a few examples of the way the scouted team usually concedes goals. Of course, it can never cover all the goals a team conceded but I try to highlight a few of the team's defensive weakness. This week though, I will have to abandon that method. This is for one reason: they conceded so many goals by failing to carry out basic defensive measures -- tracking, tackling, blocking, pressing and so on.</p>
<p><img style="margin: 5px auto; display: block;" src="/images/blog/Premier-League-Blackburn-sinks-Arsenal.jpg" alt="" /></p>
<p><a href="http://www.zonalmarking.net/2011/08/28/manchester-united-8-2-arsenal-wengers-heaviest-defeat-as-arsenal-manager/">In his tactical review of Manchester United vs Arsenal game</a>, Michael Cox of Zonal Marking points out how disorganized Arsenal defense allowed United to score as many goals as they did. The pressing in the midfield was poor. And their high defensive line failed to move as a unit. In the end, Arsenal dug their own graves on many of the goals United scored. Cox writes,</p>
<p>"[United] didn’t even have to play particularly well. They passed the ball much better in the 3-0 win over Tottenham and in the 3-2 win over Manchester City. Some of the goals – the Park Ji-Sung shot, the Welbeck header – simply came as they had too much time and space on the ball."</p>
<p>These same criticisms have also been put forward by Arsenal bloggers. Arseblogger makes the case <a href="http://arseblog.com/2011/10/inability-to-do-the-basics-worrying/">here</a> and <a href="http://arseblog.com/2011/09/blackburn-4-3-arsenal-a-game-of-two-halves/">here</a>. Disorganized -- and, at times, clueless -- is the best way to describe the Arsenal defense.<br /> <br /> So, there is little surprise that Arsenal has conceded a lot of goals -- 18 league goals to be exact -- this season (although 8 of them came in just one game). There are only two teams in the Premier League which have conceded more goals than the Gunners -- Blackburn (20) and Bolton (24). But to be fair to Arsenal, the defensive pairing of Mertesacker and Koscielny has been working much better in recent games.</p>
<p>And here's for those of you who likes to pay attention to trends. Eleven out of these eighteen goals were conceded in the second half. And NINE, exactly half of all the goals conceded, were scored in the last 30 minutes of the game. Perhaps, an indication of a "switching-off" in the later stages of the game.<br /> <br /> The interesting thing is that Arsenal and Chelsea have very similar defensive tactics: both play a high defensive line; both depend on pressing when losing possession; and both use zonal marking to defend set-pieces. But Chelsea, perhaps because of better defensive organization, have been able to use pressing and the high defensive line more effectively than Arsenal have. Both, though, have been equally vulnerable from set-pieces.<br /> <br /> Arsenal’s weakness in defending set-pieces is highlighted in the way they conceded the Stoke goal. Instead of the usual cross into the danger area, Stoke lobbed a well-drilled free kick towards the right of the penalty area from where Ryan Shawcross nodded the ball across the 6-yard box. Chaos ensued and Peter Crouch scored. Like Chelsea, Arsenal has adopted a zonal marking system when defending set-pieces and it is clear that they are having trouble with the system just like Chelsea. Poor set-piece defending also played a major role <a href="http://arseblog.com/2011/09/blackburn-4-3-arsenal-a-game-of-two-halves/">in their self-destruction against Blackburn</a>. <br /> <br /> So, the duty for Chelsea attack on Saturday is to maintain possession, keep probing the fragile Arsenal defense, force them into making basic errors and take full advantage when they do. And secondly, it wouldn’t hurt to do some extra attacking set-piece drills in training.</p>
<p><strong style="color: #000000; font-family: Georgia,Utopia,'Palatino Linotype',Palatino,serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; background-color: #f2efe6;"><em style="background-color: yellow;">The Task at Hand…<span class="Apple-converted-space"> <br /></span></em></strong></p>
<p>Defensively Chelsea needs to be mindful of the quality Arsenal have in the midfield, especially Ramsey and Arteta. Give them time and space and they will punish you with their defense-splitting passes. It will be the job of the Chelsea midfielders – Mikel, Ramires, Lampard and Meireles – to constantly occupy Arsenal’s creative midfielders. Additionally, pace and movement of their wide men, especially Gervinho, will cause trouble to Chelsea’s high defensive line. Ivanovic and Cole will have to be extra sharp for the day. In attack, Chelsea will be fine doing what they have been doing in recent games – keeping possession, finding a killer pass and finishing the job. If that Plan A doesn’t work out, well-orchestrated set-pieces should be Chelsea’s Plan B.</p>
<p><em>Carefree, wherever you may be...</em></p>
<p>You can follow me on twitter <a href="http://www.twitter.com/carefreechronic">@CareFreeChronic</a>.</p>
You can read my other posts on my blog <a href="http://www.carefreechronicles.blogspot.com/">CareFreeChronicles.blogspot.com</a> or at <a href="http://bluetinted.com/">BlueTinted.com</a>.
Lamin Oo
2011-10-27T16:41:00Z
WFD with some Fava Beans and Chianti
Luke Van Patten
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/WFD-with-some-Fava-Beans-and-Chianti/352473315817935957.html
2011-10-26T19:13:00Z
2011-10-26T19:13:00Z
<p>America!! Fuck yeah!!! If I get any more excited about the MLS playoffs starting, I’m pretty sure I will get arrested. In case you didn’t know there is a division within the FBI, actually held in higher priority than both the X-Files and Sector Seven, whose sole responsibility is the containment, derailment, and extermination of the Beautiful Game at any and all levels; a group of Hispanics at a park playing pickup, using their shoes and sweatshirts as goal posts, are on an equal threat level as a gaggle of wanted terrorists playing Egyptian rat screw at an LAX terminal; a live Champions League game on TV during the day is in many ways more dangerous than a Hugo Chavez broadcast; hell, even my AYSO practices back in the day were ordinarily interrupted by SWAT teams with cocked 12-gauge shotguns, helicopters and quads. <br /><br />It is an agency that identifies itself with a nightmarish and ominously inappropriate acronym: A.S.S. (Anti Soccer Squad)</p>
<p> But like all things deemed dangerous, illegal, and detrimental by “The Man”….like marijuana, gambling, and downloading music…footy in America now carries an infectiously rebellious element of cool, which is no surprise to the folks it has been contaminating for decades, but more of a note worthy occasion because of those innocent Americans who are accidentally stumbling upon the monster. Like Johnny Utah, I mean…Neo, finding the Matrix when he wasn’t supposed to....I invite you to follow the White Rabbit and down both the Red and Blue Pill with a small paper cup of warm Sparkletts water. Things are on the up and up. World-class players are finally playing world -class football with our homegrown studs in our own little league. When soccer has surpassed Optimus Prime, Megatron, and Dana Scully’s red hair as a significant national threat, then something is going right here.</p>
<p> The MLS playoffs began as a poor imitation of the other premier American championship systems (NBA, NFL, etc.) where after a league season, a bracket style tournament was created, yielding a singular champion. The initial naysayers complained that the game and nature of football was not conducive to some kind of NBA style playoff bracket, where in certain situations and scenarios, one game, not an aggregate fixture or a set league table, would deem one side better than another or determine someone a champion. But what has happened since the league’s birth in 1993, is something both Darwinian and American. The league has grown. The league has evolved. In the gracious words of Jeff Goldblum, “Life will find a way…” And it has. The homegrown talents emerging from America’s soccer cauldrons have finally began to provide a foundation and template for marketable entertainment. </p>
<p> This coupled with an influx of seasoned and accomplished European and South American professionals, has given the MLS a delightfully uncommon flare. And with a newly appointed Jurgen Klinsmann at the helm of our national side, many young and up and coming American players are licking their chops in the hopes to show well and catch the attention of the former German marksmen. This general ambition and desire to go extra HAM (refer to Kanye’s Watch the Throne) is one of two key ingredients of the 2011 MLS Cup’s marketability and revamped entertainment value; the other being the likes of world class players coming to our shores to exhibit whatever skill they have left (which sadly, at 30-40 is much more than anyone born here has yet attained) The influx of young talent and the hunger and pride of any player that touches the pitch has begun to make the typically-American bracketed playoff system not only work, but work well. One-game Wild Card fixtures now blend perfectly with the personalities of the teams and sub text and story lines present in each round and match up. Who would’ve thought we would see the day? I feel like Shia LaBeouf felt when his yellow Camaro fucked off and turned into a space age electronic organism that killed things and made Megan Fox like him. He was surprised, and I guess I am too.</p>
<p> ESPN’s own Allen Hopkins joined us today to break down the playoff scenarios and story lines in both Conferences. Sophie and Robert peppered the analyst with questions, desperate for insight into this weeks matchups; From Dallas and the Red Bulls to RSL and Sounders, also searching for insight beyond tactical previews but more importantly which clubs will prove themselves as contenders or burst at the seems as pretenders. The uneven distribution of wins in the Eastern Conference will prove to generate many exciting matches, where the clubs at the bottom of the bracket were granted entry into the playoffs while chomping on their nails and looking over their shoulders. If Sporting Kansas City, the #1 seed in the East, were in the opposing conference, they might have struggled to make the big dance. But as a new season unfolds, look for all the teams, especially those who had trouble establishing a winning identity in the regular season, to attempt a comprehensive reinvention of themselves. Robert and Sophie can hardly control themselves in anticipation of the October fireworks. Records and big name players are now reduced to nothing, as ten teams start with a clean slate and a chance to etch their names in MLS history. And consequently, the league maintains its “rebelliously infectious element of cool” not by reveling in its past, but working towards and believing in a brighter future. A future which may be closer than we all think.<br /><br />Maybe, just maybe, we will see parades in the streets and die hard MLS fans rejoicing, like the way European ultras celebrate their squads’ wins, before we yet again see Optimus Prime and Bumble Bee causing billions of dollars in damages to downtown Los Angeles, or Agent Scully wrangling UFO’s and Vampires in D.C. The Anti-Soccer Squad may be slightly in over their heads, as I fear no one, citizen of the public or agent for The Man, is ready for what the 2011 MLS Cup will yield. <br /><br />Listen to today's <a href="/">show</a> to catch all this domestic coverage and more as we cruise about the galaxy that is world football. Up, up, and away....<br /><br /><br />Your friend and teammate,<br /><br />Luke Van Patten </p>
<p> </p>
Luke Van Patten
2011-10-26T19:13:00Z
England should consider John Ruddy
Thomas Rooney
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/England-should-consider-John-Ruddy/-156073114170628596.html
2011-10-25T19:54:00Z
2011-10-25T19:54:00Z
The 25-year-old – who Norwich signed from Everton last summer – made a fantastic save during the Canaries' 1-1 draw with Liverpool at the weekend, as his reputation continues to grow.<br /> <br /> As Ruddy continues to impress in the Premier League, Norwich Manager Paul Lambert believes that England should come calling soon, making reference to the fact that he has regularly rescued points for Norwich.<br /> <br /> Lambert said: “At big moments in big games, big players produce things, he certainly did that, he's been massive for me.<br /> <br /> “Last season he saved us in huge games and he's done it again this year, England should have a look at him.”<br /> <br /> When Ruddy made the move to Carrow Road in the summer of 2010, many Norwich fans were keen on Lambert securing the services of Newcastle keeper, Tim Krul, but he has now won their full support with some match-winning displays.<br /> <br /> On this issue, Lambert continued: "People clamoured for Fraser to come back, not giving John time, but now quite rightly he might be getting looked at by England, that shows you the way he's playing.”<br /> <br /> Prior to the <a href="http://www.mirrorfootball.co.uk/news/Liverpool-1-1-Norwich-Daily-Mirror-match-report-Grant-Holt-scores-equaliser-article818879.html">excellent 1-1 draw with Liverpool<strong> </strong><span id="OBJ_PREFIX_DWT102_com_zimbra_url" class="Object"> </span></a> on <span id="OBJ_PREFIX_DWT103_com_zimbra_date" class="Object">Saturday</span> evening – a Grant Holt header secured the memorable point for the newly promoted side – Ruddy himself was asked about the possibility of an England call-up.<br /> <br /> He said: “It’s everybody’s ambition, isn’t it - to play for your country. I’m not expecting a call-up, but I know I have been watched and if I keep playing well for Norwich then that can only improve my chances.<br /> <br /> “I’m trying not to think too much about England at the moment, I just have to concentrate on playing as well as I can for Norwich.<br /> <br /> “But our midfielder Bradley Johnson was named recently in England’s provisional squad of 30, so it proves they are looking at Norwich.”
<p>England’s next fixture is a friendly with Spain in November, so perhaps Ruddy will be included in this. For now, he will be pleased with how things are going for his club.</p>
<p>At the moment, Norwich are 8<sup>th</sup> in the Premier League having only lost once in their last five games. They have certainly performed superbly since returning to the top flight and Ruddy has played his part, no doubt about that.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>In other Norwich news, they have already sold all of the <a href="http://www.soccernews.com/soccer-tickets/">soccer tickets</a> for the clash with Arsenal on Nov. 19th. It took little over an hour for them to sell out and this is a sign of how pleased they are with life at the moment.</p>
<p>After securing back to back promotions, the Canaries have been excellent and they will hope it continues for a few more months yet.</p>
<p> </p>
Thomas Rooney
2011-10-25T19:54:00Z
Premier League Recap (October 22-23)
Adam Johnson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Premier-League-Recap-October-22-23/-938156975491573007.html
2011-10-25T04:25:00Z
2011-10-25T04:25:00Z
<p>It was another eventful weekend in the Premier League with Manchester City laying down the gauntlet on Sunday with their 6-1 demolishing of in city rivals Manchester United, at Old Trafford no less. We will get to that game later, but first a recap of all the other action in this weekend’s Premier League.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Wolves 2-2 Swansea</span></p>
<p>This wasn’t necessarily the type of early morning game that people want to get up and watch at 6:00 AM but it turned out to have a pretty decent finish. Swansea took a 2-0 lead going into halftime amidst boo’s from the Wolves fans. The home side would fight back in the second half and eventually a goal came Kevin Doyle. Then just two minutes later, Jamie O’Hara, made it 2-2. The Wolves fans spirits’ were reversed and Molineaux was rocking. Swansea really should’ve won this match.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Aston Villa 1-2 West Brom</span></p>
<p>Villa’s mini rough patch hit another bump with a home loss to West Brom. Darren Bent missed a golden chance but then made up for it with a penalty after Gabby Agbonlahor was fouled in the area. Chris Brunt then missed a penalty for West Brom, but Aston Villa never took advantage of said miss. Martin Olsson made it 1-1 and Paul Scharner 2-1 to give the away side the win.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Bolton 0-2 Sunderland</span></p>
<p>Bolton can’t buy a win at home and this was maybe the toughest one to deal with yet. Both clubs had chances throughout the match but it was a scramble in the box, which Stephane Sessegnon put home, that gave the away team, Sunderland, the lead. They earned that goal and Bolton tried to get one of their own but while pushing forward, Sunderland broke, and Niklas Bendtner doubled the win margin for the Black Cats.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Newcastle 1-0 Wigan</span></p>
<p>Geordie nation is still in heaven after yet another win. They saved this one for late as Wigan played pretty well throughout the match and caused Newcastle a few problems. Yohan Cabaye was the hero as he got his first goal for the club and it proved to be the winner.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Liverpool 1-1 Norwich</span></p>
<p>This was two points that Liverpool could not drop with the teams around them all gaining three. Craig Bellamy scored right on halftime but Liverpool just didn’t look quite right on Saturday. Grant Holt then came on for Norwich and beat Pepe Reina to a teasing cross and powered it in with his head. Reina thwarted Holt the next time and more missed Luis Suarez chances kept this one at 1-1.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Arsenal 3-1 Stoke</span></p>
<p>Robin van Persie was given a rest but ended up playing a huge role yet again. Gervinho is hitting his stride and scored off an Aaron Ramsey chipped pass to give Arsenal the lead. Peter Crouch and his lankiness would tie it back up for Stoke, though. Enter RVP. The club captain scored twice in the second half to seal the deal for the Gunners.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Fulham 1-3 Everton</span></p>
<p>Everton needed to end their three match losing streak and Royston Drenthe got them on their way after he gave them the lead with a powerful shot. Bryan Ruiz, for Fulham, one-upped that goal with an incredible chip over Tim Howard to tie it at one each. Following a terrible miss by Bobby Zamora, Everton strode forward and took charge of the match. First Luis Saha gave them the advantage then Jack Rodwell doubled it for all three points.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Manchester United 1-6 Manchester City</span></p>
<p>Wow, wow, wow. I predicted to a friend of mine that City would win this game 2-1 with goals from Samir Nasri and Yaya Toure. I was dead wrong. Not about the Man City winning part, of course, but I missed the scoreline badly. It was only 1-0 at halftime thanks to Mario Balotelli’s first goal. The Italian was in the news this weekend with his house catching fire due to his own firework show out of his window. Why he was doing that at 2:00 AM the weekend of this match is beyond anyone, but Roberto Mancini picked him anyway. He responded well with another goal, although that one was a tap-in thanks to great build up involving wizard, David Silva, and the ever-improving James Milner. Jonny Evans was sent off for his lazy pull on Balotelli and it just got worse and worse for the home side. Sergio Aguero got in on the act after another fine passing sequence that ended with a Micah Richards inch perfect low cross. United pulled one back on a nice Darren Fletcher goal but it meant nothing. City added three more late in the game, Edin Dzeko with two and Silva with one, and the rout was on. Sir Alex Ferguson was embarrassed and he had every right to be. Wayne Rooney looked like the only player who cared for United in this absolute thrashing.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Blackburn 1-2 Tottenham</span></p>
<p>Rafael van der Vaart gave Spurs the lead early in this one, but Blackburn leveled it before halftime through Mauro Formica. In the second half both teams created but it was Tottenham and van der Vaart who would again take the lead. The Dutchman’s second goal was enough for the road victory.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">QPR 1-0 Chelsea</span></p>
<p>I’m no conspiracy theorist, but Chelsea got robbed in this game. Referee Chris Foy first gave a weak penalty for a David Luiz push, which Heidar Helguson put away for a 1-0 lead that would last them the rest of the match. The reason that lead lasted is because both Jose Bosingwa and Didier Drogba were sent off before halftime, both for challenges that were arguably yellow’s. With only nine men the rest of the way, Chelsea played very well and controlled possession in the second half. A goal never came, however, and it would end with just the penalty and plenty of controversy.</p>
<p>This is without question the easiest team of the week selection this season: the mighty Manchester City. Obviously we know what they did this weekend. It was hard to pick out a player of the week, however. For the sake of variance, and because any of the 11 players on the pitch could have won the award, I will stray away from a Man City player. Let’s go with Rafa van der Vaart and his two goals that kept the Spurs train rolling. </p>
Adam Johnson
2011-10-25T04:25:00Z
Liver n'Onions: New Faces...Same Ol' Headaches
Nash Larson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Liver-nOnions:-New-Faces...Same-Ol-Headaches/-98327216199516370.html
2011-10-25T02:23:00Z
2011-10-25T02:23:00Z
<p><span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>With the ceremonial anthem of "You'll never walk alone" belting louder than usually from the Anfield stands, in honor of the Hillsborough disaster, Reds fan's were unaware that they were about to witness another disaster.</p>
<p>The significance of what was to come pales in NO way to the devastation of the 96 fans who lost their lives that April 15th 1989, but in terms of results within a season the 1-1 draw with Norwich City was catastrophic. Old habits returned to Anfield with a switchblade smile, once again seeing a slip up against a newly promoted team with far less talent than Liverpool. This fairly regular theme is brought to you by poor defensive showings and an uncanny amount of missed chances. </p>
<p class="separator" style="text-align: left;"> <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LHhnGm6kZx0/TqYdHiH76_I/AAAAAAAAAbI/dJ6m3SLTjGw/s1600/USE+suarez.png"><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LHhnGm6kZx0/TqYdHiH76_I/AAAAAAAAAbI/dJ6m3SLTjGw/s400/USE+suarez.png" border="0" alt="" width="400" height="169" /><br /></a><br />Luis Suarez had the bit between his teeth and was up to his regular shenanigans creating so many right from the start that I swear every minute I was squirming in my chair, oohing-and-awwing, waiting for the net to ripple. After I saw him miss chance after chance, I realized it could be one of those games that the missed chances some back to haunt and to hurt. Liverpool amassed a total of 25 shots on goal, an amount that you would expect to see a higher return from, yet only a single solitary one was converted, The finishing touch was not there for Liverpool as Norwich got an all important point, not because they deserved it, but because of the home team's incompetence to finish the game off. After the 1-1 draw with Manchester United last weekend, it looked like Liverpool were making progress, but that has been halted by another score of 1-1 to a weak side, rendering it a digression from where the Reds stoop last week.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">Kenny Dalgleish opted to start Suarez up top with Dirk Kuyt and Craig Bellamy starting on the wing against the team that he started his career.</p>
<p>Liverpool were off in a flash having created two magnificent chances within in the first 5 minutes, but failed to convert either of them. Martin Skrtel's header glanced off the bar and Suarez started his own personal barrage on Ruddy's goal with a miss. Missing chances has been a reoccurring feature of the new-look Liverpool having already cost them in their matches with Sunderland, Stoke and Manchester United. Having said this, there was no shortage of opportunities but applying the finish touch is where it all fell apart. Having netted 12 goals this season so far from their nine premier league games is simply not clinical enough for a team that views themselves as top four contenders. The talent is apparent stressing again how many chances Luis Suarez alone had, but looking at the line-up you can clearly see that they are far capable of converting with the likes of Steven Gerrard, Bellamy, Kuyt and Andy Carroll on the bench. This is not taking in to account the marauding fullbacks of Jose Enrique and Glen Johnson who made his return to the starting line-up replacing Martin Kelly at the right back spot.</p>
<p>The goal finally came at the end of the first half, which was a model of frustration to all LFC supporters. Craig Bellamy netted in the 46' minute with the ball taking a somewhat lucky deflection off Norwich's left-back Marc Tierney.</p>
<p class="separator"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fByTnXVclTs/TqYdZQBGARI/AAAAAAAAAbQ/_VwAmtyTdDQ/s1600/holt.jpg"><img style="float: right;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fByTnXVclTs/TqYdZQBGARI/AAAAAAAAAbQ/_VwAmtyTdDQ/s400/holt.jpg" border="0" alt="" width="400" height="248" /></a></p>
If you were thinking that LFC's lack of offensive savvy caused their downfall, I would say nay. Conceding silly goals is a pattern that was revisited at the weekend, and is a pattern that all involved would love to banish. When Liverpool came out for the second half they looked terribly sloppy in defense. Not lacking the cutting edge, they still failed to build on their well deserved first half breakthrough. This, coupled with slack marking led to Norwich substitute Gent Holt's equalizer, as he rose to head home past a flapping Reina. A shameful attempt by the Spanish keeper, who usually dominates in those areas gave the hungry forward an opportunity that he took emphatically. Once again done by a poor defensive display it raises the question of Jamie Carragher's ability and the overall cohesion of the back four. Reina may have been at fault which is shocking for the one of the most consistent keepers in the EPL, but the fight to win the header defensively wasn't there.
<p>Norwich's Keeper, Ruddy, determined not to be beaten by his old rivals, as the one time Everton stopper, had a strong showing in goal. Facing a firing squad from Liverpool, he was counting his stars that the majority of the efforts hit the post or went wide, but when he was called upon he performed magnificently.</p>
<p>Missed chances killed us, and lack of assuredness in the back is what cost the Reds what should have been three points. Liverpool face Stoke in the League cup this week, who were defeated by Robin van Persie's heroics for Arsenal at the weekend. Peter Crouch faces his old squad and with the strong front line of Walters, Jones and Jerome, Liverpool's defensive unit will have to look sharp. In the EPL the Reds face West Bromich Albion on Oct. 29, and the onus will be on the them to get the three points with a convincing win.</p>
<p> If you would like more check out more work @ http://spotkickjournalism.blogspot.com/<br />and stay tuned for next weeks version of Liver n'Onions.</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
Nash Larson
2011-10-25T02:23:00Z
Explanation of soccer/football for the average American
Shane Smith
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Explanation-of-soccer/football-for-the-average-American/-201082689378319673.html
2011-10-25T00:08:00Z
2011-10-25T00:08:00Z
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Why is the ball played backwards this seems so negative and boring?</p>
<p style="text-indent: 0.5in; margin-bottom: 0in;">Movement of the ball is very important. Utilization of all corners of the field during one possession may be advantageous for the overall offensive strategy. First and foremost maintaining possession gives a team the distinct ability to deny the other team the opportunity to score. The old Adige, “The best defense is a good offense,” applies here. A player with the ball has basically three options for passing.</p>
<p style="text-indent: 0.5in; margin-bottom: 0in;">The first is forward, assuming the defense is alert, this type of pass has the greatest chance of being stolen. This is true in basketball and football: the closer the offense gets to the goal or basket or end zone the more veracious the defending and usually in much less space. The offense must be patient, methodical and precise with all forward passes.</p>
<p style="text-indent: 0.5in; margin-bottom: 0in;">The second type of pass is lateral, which is usually safer because the defense will always concede lateral movement over forward movement.</p>
<p style="text-indent: 0.5in; margin-bottom: 0in;">Lastly is a back pass. Let’s examine the basic idea of “Spread out on Offense and compact on defense.” The more space the offense has to work with is more space the offense can manipulate or single out defenders. In all team sports, defending as a unit is the key to success. It is a constant battle between offense and defense. The offense must try to manipulate the formation of the defense, even if it is a lone defender, so as to take advantage of space behind or around that defender. The defender is anyone on the opposing team without possession of the ball. This would also include the most forward playing striker on the team without the ball, whose main purpose is to score or assist in scoring goals. Only occasional defense is required depending on the manager’s strategy. As this player is chasing and pressuring the ball there might not be any intelligent passes to be made. There could be several reasons that a pass is inadvisable. For one, the defense is set up in such a way to increase its chances of intercepting the pass. Another is that the offensive players without the ball haven’t made good runs to present themselves for a pass or their runs are being anticipated and shadowed too closely by the defense. At this time the most intelligent decision is to maintain possession of the ball with a safe pass. The player with the ball can then relieve the pressure and start the offense again by passing up to 50 yards back to the keeper. While this pass seems to be silly, since the goal is 100 yards in the opposite direction, the offense maintains possession of the ball and creates more space to work with. The defense will adjust and chase the ball leading to another unique defensive formation. At the same time the forwards and midfielders are making new runs to receive the ball which may culminate in a more advantageous play for the offense. This type of high frequency ball movement is best compared to breaking of a zone defense in basketball.</p>
<p style="text-indent: 0.5in; margin-bottom: 0in;">How does one break the zone defense in basketball? By quickly moving the basketball from left to right, then low, then back out and swing it again. Why is this done? Because the zone offense is so reliant on all defenders being exactly where he or she is suppose to be that even one or two missteps out of position and it creates holes that can and should be exploited. By moving the basketball it forces the defense to constantly react to the position of the ball or point of attack. In doing this, the players must deform and reform into the best defensive position possible. The offense patiently passes using quick ball movement to manipulate the defense until the defense tires, loses concentration and fails to position itself properly. The holes that this passing creates can now be exploited through penetrating dribbles or passes. Thus, soccer can be compared to a giant breaking of the zone defense with more than double the players and quite possibly 8 times the space. Sometimes you must go back to go forward!</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"> </p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Why are football/soccer players always on the ground? Why are they knocked over so easily?</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">In my observations and through play I have found several reasons for this perception.</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">The first, we are going to talk about is anthropological (cultural) in nature. It has to do with cultural perception of the activity. Football players in the US when hit must get right back up immediately so as to deny the hitter any greater satisfaction. If one stays down it is a more dominant achievement to the hitter. For the one hit he must get back up to maintain his own pride and dominance. This mentality is similar to rugby where being hit hard and returning to play as quickly as possible is a part of the psychological game. As if to say, “You can’t hurt me” or “I was off balance.” Because this American idea is so endemic in our society it leads the average Yank to wonder why a soccer player would stay on the ground seemingly mortally wounded just to stand up a minute later and play on.</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">The first reason is that in almost every spot on the field a free kick is advantageous. When a free kick is given 25 yards from goal it is a wonderful opportunity for the offense. This is a precarious position for the defense to be in for one under laying reason. At the professional level the defense will set up in a well practiced almost standard way. A certain number of men in the wall determined by the proximity to the goal with all free defenders man-marking the remaining attacking players. The defenders can do everything right and still face the fact that if the free kick taker hits a certain corner with enough velocity then they will still find themselves down a goal. Imagine this, if the NFL instituted a new rule that says if there are any defensive infractions in their own half, then the offense gets the choice of an uncontested field goal attempt. With the right kicker on your team you can image how this might win games. Let’s look at the reverse example; if a defender is facing his own net with the ball and must try to either turn with the ball, which is very difficult especially for defenders since it isn’t a movement they do often, or play back to the keeper, getting fouled while protecting the ball is a “get free out of jail card” and can be found on numerous occasions in any match. With this foul the defender gets to then pass the ball out of trouble without any pressure and more than enough time to do so. So falling down with the contact or not attempting to stay on your feet is used as a tactic in both ends of the pitch.</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Exaggeration of contact resulting in a foul can give one a distinct advantage no matter where on the pitch it occurs. With the free kick being given there may also lay another benefit to this single action. Because soccer uses the cards system frequent and unsportsmen like behavior can result in a sending off of a player. When a player is sent off with a red card the dynamic of the game changes. This is similar to when a player in basketball fouls out of the game except for one key component. Unlike in basketball, no one can replace that person the team plays with less men.</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">At this point I’d like to discuss the differences in mechanics when playing soccer compared to other sports that don’t use your feet to control an object. I don’t think enough can be said about an athlete’s ability to move from point A to point B. Everyone who has witnessed an athlete move has watched the human body in perfect symphony as it excels in specific motions, while combating the environmental pressures of this planet. What I mean by symphonic motions would be the lifetime of hours accumulated doing specific actions and motions achieving perfection. Having correct throwing mechanics is essential to every pitcher. The ones that do it the most efficiently, accurately, and with the highest velocity end up with big pay days and living in Manhattan. Or let’s look at an NFL wide receiver for a moment. A receiver practices day and night to explode off the mark like a track star. His feet must be positioned correctly with his arms ready to swing parallel with his body so as not to waste any energy. While this is worked on throughout an athletic career we are talking about a person who we might assume already is and always has been prolific at the mechanics of running, above and beyond other humans he has encountered throughout life. So where this receiver’s true skill lies is in his ability to catch a football. He must have perfect 20/20 vision with an especially intuitive relationship between his eyes and hands(“Hand-Eye coordination”). So when we think about the other tasks involved, running with great speed might be considered the easy part. Let’s be frank, while all athletes are constantly trying to improve speed and quickness this is something they were born with an aptitude for. It is the easy part. Now let’s look at the mechanics of soccer. A soccer player must be quick from point A to point B also, but must also control an object on the same phalanges that he or she is using to propel oneself. This means that the mechanics from point A to point B are constantly being deviated so as to control a spherical object. This object can also change direction due to pitch conditions or opposition touches. A soccer player’s body must constantly interrupt the most efficient gate or stride so it can manipulate this object on the ground. This is a far cry from a receiver propelling his body forward and laterally while the ball is tucked safely under his arm. The human body has two legs. When playing soccer the body must use one leg (and variations or parts of that leg) to make precise contact with specific parts of the ball. This means that the leg being used to manipulate the ball is not being used for balance or movement. Whenever a soccer player is controlling the ball he or she can only engage half of their balancing and propulsion ability. The other half is of course engaging in the control of this object.</p>
Shane Smith
2011-10-25T00:08:00Z
Another Manager Falls - But Hey, Roy Keane is Available!!
Rick Fitzgerald
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Another-Manager-Falls---But-Hey,-Roy-Keane-is-Available!!/-227634551156697255.html
2011-10-24T21:00:00Z
2011-10-24T21:00:00Z
First of all, I have to say...HAVE to...even though I am not the official Chelsea fan I am waking up from a red card coma thanks to the wonderful reffing of Chris Foy. Wow...and I love how AVB is getting looked at by the FA for his comments but I have yet to see anyone look into Foy's Chelsea card-fest this Sunday. I'll hold my tongue for now and get onto what I'm supposed to be talking about...which is... <br /><br />THE NPOWER MANAGER MUSICAL-CHAIRS A-THON!!<br /><br />Ok, stop the music. So the latest manager to receive the slip is Sven Goran Eriksson, yes, he who took the England National Team to heights of glory never seen since or before, has been sacked. So maybe he didn't take the team to the heights of glory but he sure did nail mediocrity pretty well. As he did in Mexico...Manchester...and dare I say, Notts County. After having been beat down by Millwall 3-0 this week, and a season that sees them eight points away from first (13th on the table), King Power and Sven have come to a "mutual agreement" which sees him - probably temporarily - unemployed.<br /><br /><img src="/images/admin/sven-goranerikssonpoint20110730_275x155.jpg" alt="" width="275" height="155" /><br /><br />Now I know I am giving him a bit of a hard time with all the lackluster jobs he's done at other clubs, but am I being fair? I mean, really? Is Sven the Chris Foy of football management? (You know I had to get another shot in...). Maybe not. After all he did lift the Foxes out of the relegation zone last year. 13th place this year isn't the worst you can do, especially considering they are only eight points away from the top. So what's the deal? Were his comments that Leicester deserved to lose 3-1 THAT bad that his Thai owners finally had enough? Or was it....<br /><br />Damn you Southampton!! As a theory, I think that Southampton is blowing it for a lot of folks. Southampton, newly promoted this year in case you haven't been paying attention, is at the top of the table and has been so for pretty much the whole year. This is a club considered "little" by most but has somehow managed to snake their way above the rest. They are like the Boise State of nPower football and I say, good on them! They are doing what they should be doing without buying EVERY great player in the world (yes, that was a reference to you Man City.)<br /><br />So what does this mean for the Leicesters of the world? Well, in a word, pressure. Sven is not a new kid on the block - actually, even the New Kids on the Block aren't new kids. He comes to a side with experience that is all over the table so he should have many, many tools in his box and really has no excuse as to why he cannot lead and motivate a club to - at least - a playoff spot. That he has failed again, I think, reflects more on him. Sure it can be said that the Foxes didn't spend, blah, blah, blah, but I would ask you how much Southampton spent this summer? How much did Sunderland spend when they made their Premier League run? Money is great, but it only takes you so far and, make sure you're sitting when you read this, IT DOES NOT AUTOMATICALLY GUARANTEE SUCCESS! At some point the manager has to lead and when they don't, they get sacked, right Sven?<br /><br />So while Sven is headed to the unemployment office, a new void has been created in the nPower management circle. At about this time, another old familiar face has popped up. <br /><br />Hello Roy Keane. After leaving Sunderland - and by "leaving" I mean, he quit - Roy headed off to Ipswich where his run was, lets say, as about as successful as Chris Foy's (that never gets old). Its been about nine months since Roy has stepped onto the ground as a manager and he says, "Hey all, I'm ready to come back now." But there is a stipulation...He wants to manage if only the right challenge presents itself.<br /><br />Hmmm....The right challenge...<br /><br />Look, I am actually a Roy fan but what is this bunk? The right challenge? How are we going to define what is right? Like say, the challenge of taking a team to the Premiership and making them successful against greater, richer teams? No, not that challenge. How about the challenge of taking a losing bottom dweller to new heights? Nope, that one won't do either. So what challenge is he talking about? Is it the challenge of taking Manchester United to another title because that seems pretty easy (prior weekend excepted of course). I don't know. I do like the Keane, but I just don't see how he is in a position to be too picky. I would be pretty cautious about hiring him considering his past two runs didn't end well. I don't want a manager who will quit because he is tired of things. And with Roy already upset about the current mentality of players, where does he think he can go and not have to deal with it? Blue Square maybe?<br /><br />I don't think Roy will end up at Leicester but stranger things have happened. In all, we can agree that there is at least one true statement when it comes to football anywhere: managers will always have a club to manage regardless of their history. This is a league that from top to bottom does not seem to look at a manager's past before hiring. I've seen crappy managers get sacked from Premiership clubs only to reappear two weeks later at another, as if their prior failings were suddenly erased. This kind of firing/hiring process surely makes this league the musical chairs of the sports world.<br /><br />Ok, start the music and let's see whose butt lands where. No Sven, you don't have to sit out this turn. After all, your record has no impact on you getting a job and I would guess that, if you wanted to, you'd have a new club before the year ends.<br /><br /><br />On a completely different note...I saw that Arsenal's former number one goalie, Manuel Almunia, is happy to be at West Ham. I always think these statements are funny. Here's a guy who was playing at a top four club and had a chance to really shine, could not get past his buttery fingers and weekly mistakes so he got replaced and then loaned. Now, he's back in the starting 11 at a lower club and he's "happy." Sure he is, but how happy can you be because you couldn't make it on a better team? I don't really get that. Nothing against West Ham but I think if you compare the two, players would much rather be at the Emirates. It reminds me of the latest aging superstar tied to an MLS move who said, "This is a dream come true." Really? Your dream was to come to America to play football? Maybe he should talk to David nBeckham who is spending more time trying to work out a deal that takes him away from America than he is actually just playing football.<br /><br />Anyway - that'll do it for now. Take care and be safe out there.<br /><br /><br />follow @undefeatedarmy on the Twit.<br /><br /><br /> <br /><br />
Rick Fitzgerald
2011-10-24T21:00:00Z
Super Mario is painful thorn in Sir Bowser Ferguson's side...for now
Luke Van Patten
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Super-Mario-is-painful-thorn-in-Sir-Bowser-Fergusons-side...for-now/222721161284924127.html
2011-10-24T20:06:00Z
2011-10-24T20:06:00Z
Another brilliant weekend for both fans, players, owners, and coaches alike in the MPL. Oh wait...I meant the EPL...or did I? The Manchester Premier League was in full force this weekend, seeing the derby between the top two teams in the league materialize into a near 8 goal explosion. And to clarify, this wasn't the kind of 8 goal explosion that last years oh-so-anticipated Arsenal-Newcastle match up unexpectedly yeilded, or last seasons 7-1 football clinic that United held, pro bono I might add, for Blackburn. This was an explosion of goals that saw the defending champions of the English Premier League look like a group of helpless children and senile adults; depending on if you were watching Smalling or Ferdinand. Sure some of the goals came late, really late...(3 to be exact) but more than the score line, it was City's fearless mentality and razor sharp focus and adherence to maintaining their aggressive style of play that made the result so special. And ugh, oh yeah, it was at Old Trafford, the sacred church of the Red Devils. It seemed as though they might have ran out of Holy Water in Stretford End.<br /> <br /> The calculated equation of Silva's wizard-like craftsmanship on the ball, Milner's relentless weaving runs, Balotelli's slight of hand, and the Lescott, Kompany, Richards wrecking crew, was something only a tactical Italian meastro such like Mancini could have roughly sketched, painted, and sold to a passerby billionaire tourist from Dubai...like a struggling yet talented art vendor on the rustic streets of Genoa. More than his tactical adeptness, Mancini should be heralded for having the balls and brains to even manage having players on his squad in the same room, let alone the same pitch, without killing each other. He has created an environment that appears to be promote a growing bond and friendship between Dzeko and Kolorav, a Bosnian and Serb who could have many prevalent and deep seeded reasons to ignore and have disdain for one another. That is just one example of the cohesion he seems to have brought to the Etihad; for millionaire footballers and their egos can be harder to convince to respect and buy into one another's worth, than it can be to arrange such an environment between a Bosnian and Serb. (See Bowyer vs. Dyer) The impish smile on Roberto's face as the goals came flooding in said it all. Wavy parted locks of hair moving gently in the wind, with his blue eyes sparkling and his teeth clenched in euphoria, he looked like that cute girl in 3rd grade sitting at her desk getting slightly meaningful Valentines cards from all the boys in class on that breezy day in February. It was her moment... she had no idea that she was pretty yet...or at least she was pretending not to know. This was a signature win for the "other" manager in Manchester, who wasn't necessarily desperate for the resounding victory which began to unfold before him, but it seemed to be a nice, and hopefully continuous crescendo to whatever Mancini and his squad have been cooking behind the light blue walls of the Man City locker room. <br /> <br /> There is a expression in the world of sports that goes something like this: "The most entertaining and touching storyline isn't always in the winners' lockeroom.." This mantra could not be more true in the context of City's relentless thrashing of United in front of their own crowd. I was touched deeply, in fact i was tickled by the tickle monster deeply, when I heard Sir Alex Ferguson call this "the worst loss in his career as a player or coach...ever..." He should, before he does his usual and effective deflecting to protect the egos and well being of his squad, refer to the 1959 Boxing Day thrashing by Queen of the South over Queen's Park, for whom a 16 year old Alexander Ferguson scored the lone goal for QP in a 7-1 murk sesh. And I was entertained deeply, watching the likes of Rio Ferdinand, with his beak like lips and angry eyes, struggle to cope with a City attack that continually left the seasoned center back simultaneously crying like a baby yet looking like a dinosaur. There can be some positives taken from the United side of this result; at least Jonny Evans will never play again as long as Fergy is alive. That is a definite and singular sign of comfort for the Red Devils moving forward from Sunday's nightmare.<br /><br />But as our own Sophie Nicolaou so deftly pointed out on today's show...what is a more intimidating, scary, and powerful force: An all smiles Manchester City squad firing on every tactical and technical cylinder, or a wounded and humiliated United squad, disciplined and motivated by a Napoleon-esque leader with Bowser like rage, who is slowly piecing together his team's retribution? The spectacle of a United side with anger and pride serving as their engine, is something to be truly reckoned with. In response Robert Burns dispels Sophie's suggestions that Sir Alex Ferguson is "obsessed" with Champions League glory, especially at the expense of Barcelona, and that he is treating United's domestic campaign as a side show. Will City and their lengthy payroll be ready for this force of Scottish nature? Only time will tell... 6 months to be exact...when these two sides meet again in April at the Etihad. And by that time the true contenders for Premiership glory will be much more clear and established by then. But if things stay the way they are, silverware contention will be left for the taking by one of two Manchester clubs, whose coupled success thus far has defined the MPL, I mean, the EPL season.<br /><br />The drama, excitement, and power shift of the Manchester Derby and the other countless, tantalizing nuances of world football await you on our October 24th braodcast. As Arsenal handily beat Stoke, and United are still lying in a fetal position from the weekend's result...the juxtaposition of Sophie's glee and Robert's depression could cause for more excitement and fireworks than the Derby itself. Check out our <a href="http://worldfootballdaily.com/programhighlights?date=20111025">show</a> to catch it all. Godspeed friends. Until next time......<br /><br />Your friend and teammate,<br /><br />Luke Van Patten
Luke Van Patten
2011-10-24T20:06:00Z
From Scotland With Balls
James W. Hollis
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/From-Scotland-With-Balls/-639575903305590215.html
2011-10-22T04:56:00Z
2011-10-22T04:56:00Z
<p>For many Evertonians, James McFadden’s return to Goodison Park confirmed a fear that they’d had for a while. They see his return as a sign that Everton no longer has the ambition to challenge the top clubs in England and reach Europe. To many supporters, James McFadden’s return proved not only that Everton was no longer looking up the table, but also that our beloved club had begun to regress. That’s understandable given that Everton sold James McFadden in 2008 because he wasn’t good enough to secure a regular place in the starting eleven.</p>
<p>My feelings are different than most Evertonians. Without James McFadden, I would not be the mad Evertonian that I am today. It was a cool Wednesday night in Belfast when I first saw McFadden play. That night, he was featuring for Scotland against France. To the chagrin of most of the other pub patrons, Scotland appeared to be doing the stagnant act that Scotland tends to do in Euro qualifying. However, due to a <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2nmtB7rBs3M">bold and brilliant strike from James McFadden</a>, Scotland beat France in Paris for the first time in 57 years.</p>
<p>In my own words that night, James McFadden was a giant killer. He looked long odds in the face and had the confidence in his ability to score a goal that most players would never attempt. As McFadden learned that night, fortune favors the bold and you can’t score a goal if you don’t put the ball on frame. </p>
<p>About a week later, James McFadden and I crossed paths again. This time I was in a hotel in York trying to get a workout in. On the television, I spotted James McFadden in the royal blue that I would come to love and exclaimed, “That’s that giant killer.” I then watched Joleon Lescott put away a header and cringed as AJ butchered two penalties in a match that finished 1-1 <a href="http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/europe/6996451.stm">(Metalist Kharkiv at Goodison)</a>. Flash forward to October 4, 2007. I was sitting in a hotel in London with a Fuller’s four-pack of pints watching the second leg of Everton v. Metalist Kharkiv <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BPx1tmP0458&feature=results_video&playnext=1&list=PL27E36DD30FF9B570">when McFadden drew Everton level</a> before <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=btEL-LTYMRs&feature=results_video&playnext=1&list=PL27E36DD30FF9B570">Anichebe pounded home a winner</a> to secure our passage to the group stages of the UEFA Cup. My life would never be the same. </p>
<p>James McFadden has special meaning for me. That doesn’t mean that I am blind to the implications of his return to Everton. His return means a number of things. First, it demonstrates that David Moyes is not happy with his striking options. Having sold James Vaughan, Yakubu and Jermaine Beckford this summer without bringing in another proven striker, Moyes can’t ignore Everton’s struggles in front of goal and doesn’t want to have to ride the scoreless Saha and Cahill until January. Second, Moyes isn’t satisfied with our wing play. Coleman is experiencing a sort of second-season syndrome and Moyes does not trust Drenthe enough to start him.</p>
<p>What does McFadden bring to the team? David Moyes is renowned for only buying players that can be used in multiple positions. For Moyes, McFadden represents cover at striker and another experienced player that can work the sidelines with Leighton Baines. I don’t know whether McFadden will be the same player after his knee injury but he’s the only person who knows how much talent his body has left.</p>
<p>The real problem for many Evertonians is the lack of ambition that McFadden’s signing demonstrates. However, I don’t think ambition is the correct word. The problem is that our chairman has no money, the bank has our club by the balls and we have no expectation of investment. As much as McFadden’s signing may be a sign that our club is in decline, we signed James McFadden because he can fill a void in our team. We have two fit strikers capable of playing in the Premier League: Saha and Vellios; and we have two players that are good on the wing: Coleman and Drenthe (Ossie is better in the center and whatever Bilyaletdinov is, he is no winger).</p>
<p>Signing James McFadden for the season is not a bad decision. If he can play a role for our team, then great. If he can’t, then we’re at the same place we were against Chelsea: without a consistent striker and without depth on the wings. If he comes in a scores a couple of goals for us then he’s worth whatever paltry sum Moyes paid for him. More than that, though, James McFadden has character traits that our team lacks. James McFadden rates himself to make shots that most players wouldn’t try. If the past three matches should show us nothing else, it is that our team fundamentally lacks confidence. It started this summer when financial woes and speculation about selling key players unsettled the team and continues as the same scoring problems render our excellent build-up play worthless.</p>
<p>Our team needs an infusion of confidence. I think signing James McFadden will work a positive effect on Everton’s team because he has the sort of irrational belief that our team needs on offense. How many times in the past two years have you screamed in frustration as our players passed up clear shooting opportunities in favor of another pass? Everton’s play will benefit from James McFadden’s presence because he isn’t bashful about shooting. He may hit wide, but he’s going to force defenders to drop off of our other danger men because of the long-range talents he possesses. Whatever you may think of the signing, don’t sleep on James McFadden. He’s a giant killer. <br /><br />Follow me on twitter: www.twitter.com/jwhollis<br /><br />Check me out on: www.knowmersey.com </p>
James W. Hollis
2011-10-22T04:56:00Z
Chelsea Opposition Scout Report: QPR
Lamin Oo
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Chelsea-Opposition-Scout-Report:-QPR/-585781597396290187.html
2011-10-21T19:41:00Z
2011-10-21T19:41:00Z
While the two table topping Manchester clubs battle it out in a local derby, Chelsea will get the chance to improve their league standing on their visit to Loftus Road. Queens Park Rangers are undefeated at home in the last 3 league games but they have not been able to score that many goals at home either (2 goals in 4 home games).<br /><br />QPR will test Chelsea's high defensive line with their long balls out from the back. Their players will press hard to break up the play when they lose possession. Chelsea may, once again, have to rely on the skills and elusiveness of Juan Mata to unlock the QPR's defense and the powerful surging runs of ever-youthful Frank Lampard to pounce on loose ball in QPR's box. Here's my scout report.<br /><br /><strong><em style="background-color: yellow;">Current Form...<br /><br /><img style="margin: 5px auto; display: block;" src="/images/blog/Form Table.jpg" alt="" /><br /></em></strong>After eight games, QPR sits pretty comfortably at 11th in the league table. For a newly promoted team, that is not a bad place to be. And take away their dreadful 6-0 loss to Fulham, Rangers are in decent form recently. They are well-organized both in defense and in midfield. Anton Ferdinand and Danny Gabbidon have had a good partnership in the back and when the latter was injured Fitz Hall has stepped in and done a decent job.<br /><br />Goals have come much easier on the road than at home -- 4 away goals compared to 2 home goals. But they are undefeated at home in the last three league games (all be it, they are all draws). The new signings before the transfer deadline have made Rangers a better team and they can keep things tight. But as the 4-0 defeat to Bolton and 6-0 defeat to Fulham show, they can also be totally torn apart. Work in progress might be the best way to describe QPR's current status.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> <br /><br /></span><strong style="background-color: yellow;"><em>Last Time Out...</em></strong><br /><br /><strong><em style="background-color: yellow;"><img style="margin: 5px auto; display: block;" src="/images/blog/Starting XI vs Blackburn.jpg" alt="" /><br /></em></strong>Against Blackburn, QPR started with a 4-3-3ish formation but the shape of the team changed with the demands of the game. Central midfielder Faurlin dropped back along side Derry to cover the defense. Wright-Phillips on the right also dropped deep to watch the run of Blackburn's Martin Olsson. While the forward Mackie played almost as the second striker, Helguson, who started in the left, found himself to be the most forward QPR player at times.<br /><br />Left back Traore and Wright-Phillips provided somewhat of a width to the team but QPR's play, in general, was rather narrow. Introduction of Taarabt in the second half helped but it didn't change their game drastically.<br /><br />The home side dominated the first half and took the lead in the 16th minute through Helguson's cross/shot. However, QPR failed to take full advantage of it in the first half, during which they only mustered 2 shots on target -- one was the goal and another a long range effort by Young.<br /><br />They were made to pay for this in the second half as Blackburn played much better. David Hoilett pulled the strings from midfield and Olsson's pace was a constant threat from Blackburn's left. But the Rovers scored from their trademark Christopher Samba header from a set piece. QPR fans maybe disappointed but the draw, at the end of the day, was a fair result. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><br /><br />Against Chelsea, manager Neil Warnock might bring back Adel Taarabt on the left with Helguson leading the attack in a 4-3-3 formation.<br /><br /><strong><em style="background-color: yellow;">Starting with Long Balls...<br /><br /><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="/images/blog/Kenny's Long Ball Distribution.jpg" alt="" width="441" height="260" /><br /></em></strong>This season, we have seen newly promoted teams, like Norwich and Swansea, playing passing football and building patient attacks from the back. QPR, though, has a more direct approach. <span class="Apple-converted-space">The chart above </span>shows keeper Paddy Kenny's ball distribution against Blackburn and Aston Villas (both home games). It is apparent that Kenny has no intention to slip a short pass to his defenders to start the attack. Most of his passes are aimed towards the forwards and attacking players in opposition's half. Against Blackburn, six out of his eight long passes were received in Blackburn's half by Helguson.<br /><br /><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="/images/blog/Ferdinand's Long Ball.jpg" alt="" width="446" height="262" /><br />The direct approach is not limited to the keeper. As you can see in <em>Chart 2</em>, Anton Ferdinand is not looking to build patient attacks either. He doesn't even make that many passes to the other center half, Fitz Hall, which is indicative of QPR's very direct approach.<br /><br />
<div>It will be very interesting to see how Chelsea's high defensive line will deal with this long ball approach. If we can execute our offside trap perfectly, we will win a lot of offside (assuming of course that linesmen make the right calls). Another way to deal with this direct approach is for the Chelsea's attacking players to put pressure on the QPR players quick so that the latter won't be enough time to execute accurate passes.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> <br /></span></div>
<br /><strong><em style="background-color: yellow;">Closing Down...<br /><br /><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="/images/blog/QPR's Tackles.jpg" alt="" width="447" height="263" /><br /></em></strong>As mentioned above, QPR are undefeated in their last three home league games. Additionally, in those three games, they have not conceded from open play: Newcastle didn't score, Aston Villa scored through a penalty and Blackburn from a corner. And there is good reason for that.<br /><br />QPR players are very quick to put opposition under pressure and are not afraid to go into tackles. As you can see in<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><em>Chart 3</em>, Rangers players go into tackles all over the pitch. They win some and lose some but they are always ready to break up the play.<br /><br />This means two things for Chelsea. One, we must move the ball quicker without losing accuracy. Otherwise, both teams, playing high intensity pressing game, will lose a lot of possession in the middle and it will make for a terrible game to watch. And two, QPR will commit a good number of fouls as the result of their pressing game and Chelsea must take full advantage of any set piece situations, especially free kicks.<br /><br /><strong><em style="background-color: yellow;">How They Conceded...<br /><br /><br /></em></strong>In my mind, QPR's 6-0 loss to Fulham was a freak result. It is not likely that they will concede that many goals in a game. And to be fair to QPR, they were missing key players in the defense in that game: Armand Traore was suspended and Danny Gabbidon was injured.<br /><br />However, their defense was responsible for (1) not properly tracking the runs of Fulham's attacking players and (2) failing to clear the loose ball in their penalty area. Case in point is Fulham's first goal at Craven Cottage.<br /><br /><img style="margin: 5px auto; display: block;" src="/images/blog/Fulham First Goal 1.jpg" alt="" width="511" height="261" /><br />Fulham comes forward in a counter attacking move, Moussa Dembele (yellow square) playing neat little one-two with Bobby Zomora. Andrew Johnson (red square) , meanwhile, makes a straight run down the middle into the penalty area. There are about four Rangers defenders around the area. The situation is not great but it's not terrible either. Dembele, then, cuts onto his left...<br /><br /><img style="margin: 5px auto; display: block;" src="/images/blog/Fulham First Goal 2.jpg" alt="" width="509" height="247" /><br />... and hits a powerful shot from the edge of the area. Rangers players have retreated all the way back and now there are about six of them around the action. But all of them are watching the ball, while Johnson (red) continues his run towards the goal, unmarked. Paddy Kenny pulls off a good save but the rebound spills right back into the danger area.<br /><br /><img style="margin: 5px auto; display: block;" src="/images/blog/Fulham First Goal 3.jpg" alt="" width="528" height="257" /><br />The poacher Johnson (red) is the first to get on the ball from about seven yards out. This goal could have been prevented if (1) someone kept tracking Johnson's run or (2) someone reacted first to the ball as it bounced back into the danger area. In the end, neither of that happened and QPR gave up a soft goal.<br /><br />
<div>This means two things for Chelsea. First, QPR is going to have trouble tracking elusive and tricky player like Juan Mata who will undoubted pulls the strings, again, in this fixture. If Rangers haven't sorted their defense out, Mata will be a pain to their defense, just as Fulham's Clint Dempsey and Blackburn's David Hoilett were in their respective games against QPR.</div>
<div>Second, Chelsea's late runners into the box will benefit from QPR's inability to clear the loose ball quickly. The likes of Frank Lampard, and Meireles if he gets to start on the right side of midfield ahead of injured Ramires, will get good chances to score from this kind of situations.</div>
<br /><strong><em style="background-color: yellow;">The Task At Hand...<br /><br /><br /></em></strong>In order to seal the victory against QPR, Chelsea's defense must be alert to their long ball technique and must execute their offside trap precisely. Chelsea's attacking players must also do their part in closing down QPR's defensive and midfield players, so that they won't have enough time on their hands (or feet) to make accurate long passes. The Blues must be quick and accurate with their passes since Rangers tend to press opposition all over the pitch. And finally, creative and elusive player like Mata must disrupt the organization of QPR's defense and later runners into the box like Lampard must ready to pounce on the loose ball in QPR's penalty box.<br />
<p><em>Carefree, wherever you may be...</em></p>
<p>You can follow me on twitter <a href="http://www.twitter.com/carefreechronic">@CareFreeChronic</a>.</p>
<p>You can read my other posts on my blog <a href="http://www.carefreechronicles.blogspot.com/">CareFreeChronicles.blogspot.com</a> or at <a href="http://bluetinted.com/">BlueTinted.com</a>.</p>
<strong><em style="background-color: yellow;"></em></strong>
Lamin Oo
2011-10-21T19:41:00Z
Atletico may be feeling a bit of buyer's remorse
Joseph Zucker
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Atletico-may-be-feeling-a-bit-of-buyers-remorse/-594500217643248306.html
2011-10-21T19:22:00Z
2011-10-21T19:22:00Z
Tell me if you’ve heard this one before. Atletico Madrid starts the season off with guns a blazing, only to come crashing back down to earth. It seems to be the same story every season with the club. After back-to-back 4-0 victories over Racing Santander and Sporting Gijon respectively, Atletico was demolished by Barcelona, drew with Stade Rennes, Sevilla, Granada, and lost 2-0 to Udinese.<br /><br />Perhaps most surprising is one thing is this recent run of bad form: a lack of goals. In those five matches, Atletico has scored one goal. One measly goal from Juanfran in the 87th minute against Rennes. And that goal was completely undeserved because Rennes had dominated most of the match. This wasn’t supposed to happen. Although Sergio Aguero and Diego Forlan left in the summer, the club spent a record €40 million on striker Radamel Falcao. And perhaps, that’s when the club management crippled the club as a whole.<br /><br />The transfer was a direct result of Aguero’s move to Manchester City. There was clearly a glaring hole that needed to be filled. Enter Falcao. He is arguably, at his best, the world’s best pure finisher. Falcao found the net 33 times in all competitions last year and 30 the year before. When he signed for Atletico, it was almost too good to be true. The supporters latched on to him immediately as he hit the ground running. He netted his first-ever domestic league hat-trick against Racing, then scored two more against Gijon. Everything was right in the Calderón. And then the Barcelona match happened.<br /><br />It was supposed to be a bit of a measuring stick for the Atletico squad. Manzano had them playing really good football and the club looked like a Champions League spot was not outside the realm of possibility. Since that night in the Nou Camp, the club hasn’t been the same. Falcao was forced to play really high up the pitch and was left horribly exposed. It has been the same story for many of the matches after that. Manzano can’t really be blamed. It’s not as if Falcao is unfamiliar to a 4-3-3, which is the tactic Manzano has used for much of the season. In Spain, Falcao just doesn’t seem to be able to dominate games as much as he did in Portgual. And he also doesn’t have a player the caliber of Hulk playing beside him.<br /><br />I had brought up the fact that there was a lack of another finisher alongside Falcao. Obviously he’s the target man, but sooner or later, someone else would have to step up and score goals. Adrián has had many opportunities to be that guy, but it has been painfully clear he isn’t. The other new transfers, Diego and Arda Turan, have performed really well, but goalscoring was never something they were expected to bring. So you really have to wonder, how much has the Falcao transfer hurt the club?<br /><br />It sounds crazy to think that bringing in such a great striker would be a negative, but this is a club that aren’t like their Madrid rivals. Atletico can’t go and just spend €40 million on one player every transfer window. When the transfer was first announced, I was ecstatic. But then I looked at the price and wondered no matter what his goal output would be, the club grossly overpaid for him. Atletico Madrid, while arguably the third- or fourth-biggest club in Spain, must live within their means. They can’t afford to write off a multi-million Euro transfer disaster. The club is hundreds of millions of Euros in debt and don’t look to be balancing that out anytime soon. There isn’t the kind of television revenue that Barcelona or Real Madrid get. Atletico doesn’t even have a shirt sponsor. The club can’t immediately bring in reinforcements when things go bad.<br /><br />The Falcao transfer looks more and more like a reaction buy based more off hurt feelings. It’s like after you break up with your girlfriend or boyfriend and then you make some stupid impulse buy. Generally, though, you don’t spend $55 million. Just simply by looking at who left and who came in you can see there would be a glaring hole in the finishing category. It wasn’t really a case of addition by subtraction. Atletico lost their two best strikers, Forlan and Aguero, and brought in only one. Adrián was brought in prior to Falcao, but he’s not exactly a killer finisher, scoring eight times in 31 league matches. The club essentially put everything on the Colombian to succeed. It was a purchase with the attitude of winning now. That’s a good thing to see if you’re a supporter, but if things don’t go right, then not only are you struggling in the present, you have sacrificed your future.<br /><br /><strong>Falcaometer</strong> (as of October 21, 2011)<br /><br /><img src="data:image/png;base64,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" 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" 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" 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" 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" 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" 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" 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" 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" 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" 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" 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" 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" 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" 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" 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" 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" 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" 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" 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" 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d53Mltu3B25t97K1abbTn5wrKP6YV/np66VRyvdMz0jvQ+RdanuydWnJf1nB7IGjwwlDkc+83vuPuL6ImA0d2zwFdW47Gu9CcM3hm/1J3Xfab1X+SD7UWxK8BPvNPdn7hmJLy6zt74qfrszT7+g9cNq0X7JeXnvCmk1du32T+tN4a2PO3Q7x3/5H4vkxfxIfhAESsAExA+FQR0wP5yDwqOy0GzoJownlgb7BJdDQaLUwHNSoahWCN+Ic0gUuUwH6GkY+BjlmAyYHVhIrGFssezxHHGcYVxu3Do8bDwfeS/zufBt858XUBBoE7QUfCFEEvoiHC28JXJUlFr0nBifWJW4gniLhIHEY0l7yTEpL6lP0mHSizKJsrBsphyj3AV5MflbCtoKvYqOim+VgpWWlQ+p4FXyVHlUK9Xk1VrUDdX7NBw1xjXJml+0IrR+aMdr7+jk6srovtE7p+9swGrwyrDYyMOY2/ityUVTLyQSGTU/aaFp8cXygtVeaxHrDZtntrV2afZuDjKOaMdRp3LnYBdul8d79rsquMFuk3t73Bs8Sj2zvQ54B5EcfLTIwr7Uvot+z/2vB2QEBgXZBxuF6IZqhamFy0UwR4xGHtpH3FcR5R3tGEOOPRhXsv9u/MuElSSaA9zJfClsB+kOMR0WS7U8EpN24Whv+o/jHCe0M+wzzbKET4KTs6c2TkvmhOfeQtYXnfzUc20F84XMRarFPiUlF2YuaZbmlk2Xa17JuTpVqV51qvpdrcq1nLqV64E3Jm85NNxtZGoKbr7bQrzree96K9Tm0F7+YOmhYeeZrslu4R7v3qzHd58Qnp4a0BmiGB57XvUiccziFf9rpjfm78DHlVnuJetd//8+W9rdE7DKAOQPAOC4CoAzCwDZ5wAQ8QOABclHbYkIXQ3AqnYA+uQPIGH/v/cPJmT3MAHeIAHkgGrQCSbAKkSHZIXGEAlKhs5Dt6FhaB6mhqVgSzgUzoLr4EF4EcnhNFAk1HHUDdQ4kqcpoH3QZ9DdSDamionF3MHCWEdsHY4el4z7RuFDMYpkSn14C/wglSvVNCGBSEOsojalnqU5RStD+4jOie4tfSD9OsMZRinGe0y6TPeZNZjbWMxYXrPGstGxXUfyh2WOIk5Dzu9cJdxW3Ds8dbzOvD/40vkZ+EsExJGR6SFEIXRfOFFETWRTtF3smLitBKfEF8k7UkelTaQ3ZMpkdWTH5KLl6eUfKZxSDFZyUNZU4VdFq06rPVav18jTjNYy12bWHtU5q+uox6b3Wb/b4JZhjVGdcavJiOlXs20LCksaKyZrDhsWmx3bIbsz9jr2nx2yHJUdp5yuOCe6+Ozxco1wO723w33bU8srybuZ9IMs5Gvnt9+/OOBB4OdguhDN0KCwgvDuiKV93FFG0cExubFtcT/iJRKCEquS5pLlUuIPPjhMnxqF7Fydx56cuJZpl/XslEV2R45GbnOe3tmtgqYLfJfiymLLA656Vu6pdq7dU+d5PfRmVsOLJq876/d8Wy+293Wsdol0e/aW9n3r1xw8Njw4wj4a8fLL6+a3Te/jP65P+80MzGl9q1tgWfRa9luVXuv7qbmRtdm59XF76df6wQzkkJOmAOQcoRg5NRgGXyFK5FRAH/JCTgCKkKx/DFqDWWF1eC+cguTzj+BZFD1KDeWDykI1o6bQTGhjdCL6BnoWI4oJxtzCorDu2HacNK6CQoSihlKBshVviZ+giiIQCNVEK+IydRmNEy2Btocug96OgZ3hHWMJkyXTAnMuiwLLC9YkNgG2fvYkDkmOt5xnuay58dw9PCd4TfnQfHf5wwX4BEYFc4TshBmFx0WuiO4T0xWnE5+SuCuZJxUmrS9DI/NM9rScpTxBflShXjFXKUmZrGKhKq/Gro5Wn9eY0HykVal9VMddV1GPRm9B/43BMJL7DBq/NPlkumQOWRAsWawErGVttGwN7HTs5R14HKkcN5yWnFdcdlyp3Jj2crnzefB7cnkxeEPe30mTPmPkcd85f4oA8UCboLjgSyF9oWvhQhE2kdH7TkdVRN+PGYld3s8Tb4tEKA+StpI1Ug4cbD2MSjU/kp82na51rPD4RoZn5sOT4qfysndyQnNf59mefXrO9TwofFhccCH0kmoZdLnvSkFFUJVmDUPt17on1+tuZjd4NeKbcu8QWrLuCd1/09b4oPjhsa647qBe3z7/p8ED4UP7nsWOxI+Gv9R89fy1/kTxm4VJu3fjH85OpU6fnLk02/C17/v4woNF16W65U+rhDW19cwNvV/+5wRawAOkgAugDUxCMCQImUAhUDbUAL2CIVgMtocPwBXwcxSMkkf5ogpQ/Wgc2gCdin6EocF4YZqwHNhsZKZfpTCk+EJ5Dm9JhaPqJeQRA6j1aYRoaekA3TL9d4Z5xlVmLAsHqzqbN/tpjh4uPLcjTxUfDX+UQK1gp1C/8JjIJ9E1cVoJCUlLqWjpCpkFOQP5QwqVil1K71RgVTE1R/U0jXtaWO0kXbxePBJL/DDiNrY0STKtM5uy4LMkWV2x/mqrY1figHEMdLrvgt1j6prhNoj4LN/rIGmCXO9H9LcKOBLYErQYIh0aGnYtfDXSbl9btFZMYxz7/tD4WwnrSToHjiUPHeQ6FH6454hG2mT6/eNZGVyZKVm9p6iz7ZEI8u0Zsbz9Z/vOSRYUFbIWnSmBL/hcvF2KKrO+XFg+c1W1IqNyolq+5njtZJ16ff71HzetbpU3rDTqNh1p7mqhurvnXn0rXVtS+5cO94cDXYaPWnrke2v6hJ+U9fMOlA4JDlc9lx1pGbUYm3lV9NrjDfPbmnds74M/lH8cntqaFvpsNRP75eJs79zyN77vVvNxCyU/bi62LjUsn18JWJVY7V0LWFteJ68P/9T9WflzcUNnI2PjxSbfZvBm2ebLLbot061DW01b37dFtl2207dvb3/cYdjR34naKd0Z3PV/tL+C/O7uASCCPnL8+GZnZ1EYAFwuAFs5OzsbZTs7W5eRZAP5B9Ie+vt/xa4wFjlzL27fRY/uJu/e/q38DwT7fzuu2dvGAAAACXBIWXMAAAsTAAALSwFy+EtEAAAUoUlEQVRoBa1ZaYwk9119dXVXVd/n9PTM9M7s7M7ueNfZw+u148T2Ok4c4yQOCcoHMFiISIDCIUDiU8QRK4h84wMSCooUICBMxBUlRIZgBwJOQhTHxybe3dlrdu6enr6rq7uq6+L9e73GXt8hLfV0T3d11e98v/d+JUVRhJ/U43d++Zda1dmy5HhjpKszUcLUEUkKOgPLf+xTjx21YO39pK71yvNIPwknPovPLq998uy3g1DL6npc2mvuwQuAZCoDPaFje2092tzc6buOHe7fvw/d7hCrq2tBY3f3wgdvvfXrT5w9+7lXGvVO3/+/nHhfrfZXjbjyEV+VlDQfnVYfkGR49MBxRojFYnxqGAyGCMOATx/TUwXEDAOdZjvKpBJhOLI9M6mN1vfW/21rK/jZd+qAOP7HduL97z/14tZac9/Q8xOQVASeNzEyDIHx2IMkRYgbOj8PJv9fNy6CovApafDCMZYWahhaA0hwkU1ow3SqsPv9lcs79br1nnfizI/lxEKtckWNJeaVeFwWBo8ZdW/sQlZF5HV47giqKtMpYDQa0Ykx34eIIvEUjkjwwwgZllounUGz20MpHce+ShnZfMlvdDrr3/zOc4tv1xH57R5447jTJ2+9ylpfiGRZ9v0xgvEQgR8gHtdhmEkomgaNZeT5YF+ENFjjd3Fo/FxRVMiyAt+nM0EEy3ZF00PVZNQ7NlaubWMcBOrBhUMLC8nk925c861e37ETiiLPe0Ekea6DQc+CO/ZpZAxyzITDkjLZA8lkEioUBDTUozcSy01kSNOUl+yR+BmzQed7PMdgwGzxOD8K8OLFy1HH6mOccjpvZfyN799ROc3PV674brAwGvvSOPChMrLJdArLS0uolkrQpBBLtSpsq4dWq4PNvQY2611GuTuJvnAq9H24nkvnvBs2TMpMOBWjk/FYLIpLSuir7Wq9HjVePuhN3rwjJ/LZVDh0vMlvRImUyzk8dP8Z3HHyNijeCOGoj7gsIeScsPsd2LY9qfedZg9re23YboSB42Kd74cCg4OAzrHu+KAPk2fSiEWJuB6t1Zs30vYm5l//Sn3LI146oFbL/EUUsAdY57IiI5dL46MP3Ie7ThxDSjfgWiMERB4pYKP7Q+hEHEg0UJeQmc4hZ6gYjgIaP0ZWl7HFHmj2hnDptM9SYo7YM7IYjlK+UMDJYvHPnm02P/V27Hu7PSHlU7lPyFp8koWEmcAH7n037jl1HIV0mvUfIo4ASujSCJZJMGSJjGnYGGZcgaFJSNOajBKikozh9vkK7txfwVyRvUMLEmZ8YqtoeMd10bctpHV96u04II55W048/MA9TwahZDquR3SRMTc7jZNHDiLDBpZZBxExH4y8HDiQPAcRM+F7dIROhcze2LEIwSMOwAFCQrEekzGdMTCbNfg74jBLKa7FeGxIOPbR7valrTB4j2EYC8LIt3q8pRNsuF/Z3N49Y49cSfRBOp1AKhFDMZvljFNpaMiLe3CdHpzRAL5rc8DRKZkFEorpTdThnPDoTMjZMBg5hF9CssqSJ22TGBTHGUNRJeg8v/BoNBpj4LtTd999+9898sgjx9/KiTfsiaWlpd9dXl76qdtP3roYhZ6sGyZMNqM9dFgu/qRExAzwOZkFneALiKoY9vu0TYKsGVANnzNDhcbJ7YYsuCGbn+fg4dAzMdrLADAIwinREyLL2ZQB+oquZWM0GJ1evHPfF3nmk2/myKucYNSlh86cfmrh0H7pjpOHl/wgqqaMOJptGwN7RLRxYHMCi+nM4ueFObiYhcFoyGMIo04fSZ4xmc+xSiI0Wy10hyE2m9bEcFWKsUs8xNkDuXIe2sV1Ok80o9GeJ5yICNs+yy0+ccajt5urK8c//qF7n/qnr3/r/jdy5FVO/PzHPvDk0PXu63U5gPoDNBpN7PDZ4zDyGX2RdoEkZKroDgZ45sK3sbW5hnp9F512E9OpOE4tlTEX10QUsdfp49JWDyvbXbQsl5xJ+C4RneJ4Dyd3JplATtdgjYhOL1ESXp+OaMgm6UhaY6v1Jdl373v4wfv+Y2V1+4crKyu/ebMzEycOHTr00MzUzKmEGZ4RZC4kHWgxstuNFjqcqGKaCs4j4FU8NNbz+YuXsL6zjb29XexxDkS+i3E8iV63C/pClAkwsklJ3MEEtUTTKywXRSNZJF05f3WTSMXmLqWwSWousiGkTSimvO+x12LoNjuYSiWRiGtSKVs4YxoJ0eivdeKn77//05Vy+SPJVOJ0pMgSaQwN2RMIwQwQx8eCQgsHWLe8iMDylKFhbO8gEXKABTZyMTrJ38UJr0PCo+PGmMkxGs0+LGvI2RGgwN/ocdIPOhLjRWweZ3GuzBZTyG230Rq4opMIuaJMSRwJBjtbdRiqhgKzkimUo8Pz++ZEEG9+qGYq9fu6FMUyrGPRYI1GnbXcRItUQTBUAYHXGSgBhxfQCOxzUxnM5IF+RKo9LsB1O+jZA3Q5K4qZEKXZGYTX9rDb3MTOgLRcjkEjvxoyID57gvlAytQm0Jw20ygT8VoDzpSYgnzawNBnNoIwiogWWzt7kp2KYbs9QCK1bd3sgPhfXTx6SOm1OzTYhTPsMZI9Kq8eeuT5E67DLIgMTA6mE2Iw7ZsrQ4/a2AspP+MG2mM2dSihQCpemamgOrcEz5KQNNaQZ3km4gmM+Hpxq4EES9FlydQI0wXWXZIZMsl6NZbZgekUh1wcDWalO/QiwYKt0VgKmOXBbh8d6/L1er5uzst/1VQu+6X+wI7bPeuiFwW/OhoNKg4RSKY2llSCJRvQ5RSNAoHjKiq5BFh+SGpFxp1KTvCgchqKr2NxtowTx46wISuoxzYwRXJYLjB7Whxte4x+knSdLNeMS5gn70pSTzhjgUgyShx+y3M5UhgNFVKYFzdtbA+8z3QGzh8EkiqRjfiUL3/ysuWveKM+98zZx7rdbvyJJ55YOXZ06ZPNvb2IUZUK5C8xRtnkVL5y8QI88qAChct8OYFsJkVDi9QPQ5Sz25hLCqGjYmZ+AeXKDBs4NtELMUY3zVIw2cAJRjyrK5MJn84kkc8kELBcths9TmsFi5Us+4WBYmiWq7koU526+Od//93HqE8kj3TEMKJgMAj/6BW2v/xWffzxx6+J/5YPTt+7eW2vJAZTIpNBsTRNoZ+f0O3dxDobfIzpnIlKhrqAzRbTWEoxZjeVYhZKXAgYyJemqBtYOpNS9PneYEkSkmmkXswilRQwS8d4fkkOMaQmEXo8xeGST5lkwg7aRLpSKoHpWr7NsXWMqPgZYd+bPSYQ+/EH7rqXUXsqX8pTYcakUmUO+cIcEUdHY+cypqs16oM9LM+msL9KAyheQF6kMjsGZ4JWrtA48RmdklUMiG4yh0KxWCQE1yecqDzFAUiaIgRSSLTqtluwOItsOlFldufyWcL0CLtbLFLLwde/dvbdxWL2i5RPd7Ir/098vI4314edJH0zlchKcV2SdCNDnVulMazj5saEXujZKWxsbjAzVdT2T1HUWOg1HcR8odAIr8ySPezABCeyu41ehzKTpDDghkOl4htySAoiKETP2B2izcHY4GakORSfy0gTQgW2exx6c/sqpOmONPT7OHygdrz1C9kPSX8jXWVGzr6O/ZOP2DGS9OH3vVdKmDnJZJnoRpbDyEe/32CadZZTEmucykLgWKQNKrmNwwEW8j1VHrkQS8KxJ9xnxCZ/5tlnmBUOy46LtXoPU9kcahWDUe/CYPnYnD27nB/bbN4hqUZGXIMcyuLn/shFuVrG1nqf0NoUQ1Uyhvo/lov579PaO9/QieXphbt7vTEphRPkK1NyNB5J9qCHfHEGBgVNq76BZmObEVWx1RT0WuN09eBxXngB6QiFvsVlWWnuALWyhx9ebROBIkK0ja32CG3LJ4zOstGbDAoz5XAW9R30xyFiZK60k70hBimLxvGwsdXBC1f3UMilo62N3QtHlpbmjt5y2H4jB8TnSjmZ+6Htud+NyeG047lcghl75alZQwigUa+JK1cvU1JyLUmeYzFS0wWTJcZGJTx6pA92t41uYw+1I6dRmV/GAjV2JRNHNZ1ElQ1qJrgBUWg8y6nDhhfnanuCsxKJ6IDYfrAtOAAjLhoifOfcDtZbg6iQyV5rdrq/duaOO/CVf/3GJ97MCTUael85v3P10eMHD37DG9jKkROnnl5d2XivkJGXLq3c1R1Y5Hs6SrksS6SNL3z5aTxwz6348P0ZNqoYXB6UfAYhZ4FHAw2F05i6QCIMs42hkBe1+fnADSfbDJ20Q/AzKeLCwFfYTz4d0ZDmb1oDGS9sdCYrnCtrG39M/f3vNF483/ShnuttPCqOeP7SpQduPtI0zc1cWq8mTUMaUux0+ywdTtPnLuzife89zItpSNAByfUxGnJvdP4CWs0GDRQiySPKdGENSTMIxyMyWJ90wiC1EPyLnHICs2KJJtBFZ7kuzqZRyBdJOxRoSu+fb7bnjf5/w23Hz3zo/n19V1ptECJNssjV9U10SK1F7Sa4S/293/ogKmSgMcKqTcpS3xjgTz//L/CINDEh+GmcQvh16EyZ2/GD82X+VqwrOaX5negNcgKiLjdU3N/WCiy/2SIefzaGndjt4eEHH9yvdVbCmWoVRw7ksZjK2h9892z79Ry5DrGv+IZgZdx14kS5NJ29alJ8WZYl7e66kwWXUF7CiT61xIVLm2y+A1C4FJPoCGkByILR7Ai9PdFM/EvxxIe4yIihF5RCosEytUPI55gcims3qJw7Q8dhdcocenHY2SUpdLzLLDorYLmNXRXtlPLV3/7La3+oxOITJpfTgU9/fHrtxvnF68uParX0c2os+kKv15c2NnYIh93Jd6wc1q7KkhBSEnjyO5dwdLkGmRNcEMWEaaCUT6G+058wXQaZntA5iiCxTCApnZST0AtiJorSopRmUERdca3p6aTvNik+HVK60uYPOmq2XMzWt/oYyiVgffBo0tAflak1JPK4SFeDX//bnQPTOp1/2Xq+WVzM1961fPjzjVZH2iDM2RQ1k8jRCGGQ2L26rH9h1NaOjQvXWjh9LEtKwpqOyzgyP4u19mUkyXSFfhKTXWRumTKgkCB15/nChKDgETU3902c3A5/nCO/onCfCLAdzhbLXkMwIC1phxKXJOCKAslcgeglAiOjUExgM64olYqxOo4rwauciCLtwovnrygDIWzILnVqgAzJWqVcQmuPcLten0AiGx2FUhHPn93CseU5Xl5BgqVy+9IiaUMDmRwJYpKcijkT68q5fVVcq29yQFJLM/DU7hOjg9AjkkkwOa2F6OpSSDVHXMQ561CMafTrOzhwZB6PPDiL9lDBf/2gg/W1HqRxEh1Hk5otsouMwq56xUNVE6O0oeki9boe4ZajR3D00AH8z9P/LcQJ0YT6OJti2eSwtV1HeyeA1XsXsiR35A8oTk1hfymHBOE4y/qOc7+kG0lY1M2CCKqcCcIBh3XOwzmpSf64b4qYNodzpE+IdcJZhIrLvS4dptenjk3jnpN5cGOE2w5n8Q9PnMPFzS68voldVsXA0l5dThcvXi0crtXGJGjqwsI+6c7bTuBH585jrdGe1HYxl+SAAut+G2nyqcVbTuDFVRtnpvKkKpwXjGolXcDCbYdIvRSenEZx03HuuRfgsRxJUhCwxETUPQ42kyJqTIpjMT2CjjeGaYwjrnoUdi0BQ7CDfNZkSRJQfCGDHfziR/NcUmRwbk2nTvexSrH0qkyIpLQd50lYneNBOGd846lvJsZsQNawmkilyK8UdHsj8psaZqv7KEm7+Nrz27j1lhq3FjJGDkuJq8kxmzFB7SHWO9/70Qp2R1SVzErEqwm9Tnkw4VqULaQcIRJCR2gRukGB/WZQRKUnA1DlMM3niV/MikFt0+lwSa6amOZsqk1xlXon7weSCr3GiUaj8dCNCmMDf7VULvPGj/PRQiGtONyC5DmMxC2seFLGbOowfrQ6h289L+Fjd5tM+QBrrQ3sEtCCUOHCmMOOM6SSj3MW8EnhJDYnNid4SE8iBkglOunsJ9uPYWuUJ4WnhySiMtU4wZebdq5FBRMX5cmbOEMimE9WEBAQFDLkPLchr3HihgPilVL9YfGaKxRWbjt998FkqQpNDqWDh/fj8C0H8ddfXkWy1MbzWx7uJqkTIDB/qIor31/F+c0O8hxsUwT0JAGCoxoWB9xe15n0iMbwGopYZxKC6cilHlGOa2lNjTMLhGRqi4hyICT8esyoxN5RIhrPvW7IPhPlRw/5en0OCTtf9/GfRM5j3MRc3m0tXrp8FeORJfH+AXWFyeMDpAsj9oHHpoxwvt7HKcK5iNbth2ZQy6dJJTQizRgt3sNrEx9b3TF6HA7inoRMRBKNL1Y0ZCaouyylCa1iP6jsB3I3dg7XmS75GaNOQOOIhJFITTRJXM/zMzo62Z68rvnXPyTmfC4ach8z9thq1N25DKNNLcyLSCRtJulEwOZU9BiudabR6Em8M9RAu2dz/xrnBSQ0SMm3ux5XmQ6afW7G6YROaZqNXWexOq2zowxGXP8wzpz8jDCRKyKasW45T3inlQ6JoTi5N0IeJoltpGcTPBIEgZvQ6WZ/Zgfj39C5mrBIM2LMm9h6JE0hMdmkPFGnH3BhLEogwOV2EkfNHKXpOTSbzA6HXEAE2u5yMezxJi/hUGzPU8TOmSQ1OstITHPuEpilEkuXQ5AOMBmQqQpFAFzeHhBsQBBNd+xQ35gchBazQbU4bJHmJ5hNY/Kbm22f/H9pNNoiFEr9HvdPpBqpJIU8dYFYT8q82JiqbCTYppkia5DJgyR0vAKZKNcuaYklFmKbGRGcKaTDEtMeIwIliWKCAAhaIhxxIhMNV6CRoCeiRcUak2XCgxQ6M7IsfsfeIKqJ9aZAKbFGSvHmzoDqU6ziheOv+1C9aJrLA8HteFpmljgfYz84NEpcsEWid22LOptNG7G0ZMLhnl+EaaRRyyZwvGbi0EyCpcPdLUtG3MszqQZZRYw4G5efCxa27mZ5L+J6dkMikNjTRmxYhYHiHowZtIS/jDjpPGWwoPHid4L9CsJYr1/F/wJXX0JvKBqmRAAAAABJRU5ErkJggg==" alt="" /><br /><br />This week: 21<br /><br />On a scale of 1-10, the Falcaometer is off the charts. It seems every season Atletico must have a terrible run of form. I want to make it clear that the club’s recent run of terrible form isn’t really down the Colombian by himself. It’s really a larger problem. Somebody must show up and take a share of the goalscoring load off of him. Until then, Atletico will languish in the middle of the table.
Joseph Zucker
2011-10-21T19:22:00Z
Jake Livermore; the emerging Spurs star?
Sam Rooke
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Jake-Livermore;-the-emerging-Spurs-star/458845554276741921.html
2011-10-20T14:55:00Z
2011-10-20T14:55:00Z
<p>Much has been made of the current crop of youngsters coming through the ranks at White Hart Lane though, and central midfielder Jake Livermore sits at the top of that class.</p>
<p>After making his first Premier League start at Old Trafford, young Livermore has since made five appearances, four from the bench. His second career start on Tyneside at the weekend demonstrated both the qualities and the shortcomings of this rough diamond.</p>
<p>Livermore’s ball winning qualities are his most important asset. He has won 87% of his tackles and 69% of his possession duels so far and this compares strongly with similar players at Spurs. Scott Parker’s completion rates, for example, are comparable although he has made substantially more of both. Livermore’s defensive abilities demonstrate why he has been occasionally deployed at centre back in preseason and while on loan last season.</p>
<p>He usually lines up as a defensive midfielder, ostensibly his job is to screen the back four and allow the creative players ahead of him to do their work. Livermore though, has demonstrated a willingness to do more. He gets forward, scoring in the 5-0 away win in the Europa League and winning the ball deep in Newcastle territory to set Adebayor away for the penalty on Sunday.</p>
<p>His passing too, it must be noted, is of real quality. He has completed 86% of his 117 passes in the premier league this season. Not bad for only 201 minuted of playing time. He looks forward with the ball too, sending only 15% of his passes back towards Friedel. He has created two goal scoring chances, both leading to shots, and he has mixed up his game by running with ball successfully twice in both of his starts so far.</p>
<p>At Newcastle, Livermore showed both sides to his game. He won the ball eight times, bringing him to sixteen times for the season. That compares well with Scott Parker who has won possession 38 times in his five games. Both average winning possession seven times per game. However, Livermore looked nervous at times and some of his passes, particularly in the first half lacked conviction. His second half performance was much more assured and he looked solid in a Spurs team fighting a tough battle.</p>
<p>Jake Livermore is not yet a star. He will struggle to command a starting role in Tottenham’s exceedingly strong midfield. The 21 year old has time on his side to grow into a very strong player. His quality in both attack and defence as well as his energy combine to make an exciting young player. If he continues to improve, he may yet be the next academy success story. </p>
Sam Rooke
2011-10-20T14:55:00Z
¡Hala Madrid!
A.J. Nelson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/¡Hala-Madrid!/-160745922221856243.html
2011-10-19T08:04:00Z
2011-10-19T08:04:00Z
<p>The Santiago Bernabeu. Decades of football history has been made within its walls. It houses a Real Madrid team arguably the best in the world. And, this past weekend when Real Betis was in town, it also welcomed this American for the first time.</p>
<p>I have seen Real Madrid play before. I have been to Madrid before, but I have never before set foot inside the Bernabeu. It was worth the wait. The seats may have been uncomfortable, the crowds were large and the cigar smoke from a few seats away may have made my eyes itch, but it was all perfection.</p>
<p>Although Madrid would start slow (a continuous problem for the year), it didn´t matter. Although Jose Mourinho would leave some of my favorite players on the bench - it didn´t matter. Although the linesmen would make some dreadful calls - it didn´t matter. And although the goals would all be scored on the far end from me - it didn´t matter.</p>
<p>What did matter was that Kaka had a beautiful strike and received a standing ovation as he was subbed which "made [him] happy." Trust me the fans were happy too. What did matter was that Gonzalo Higuain scored a hat trick (again!). What did matter was that the team made beautiful passes (primarily in the second half) and Marcelo´s ball control was pure perfection. What did matter was that Real Madrid won 4-1. And what did matter was that I was able to witness it all for myself.</p>
<p>I have now left Madrid and am in "enemy" territory (including for the Champions League games), but my heart is truly fixed elsewhere: at the Santiago Bernabeu. Because now I understand. ¡Hala Madrid!</p>
<p><em>A.J. Nelson can be found @FootieObsessed and currently wandering around Spain already planning her next trip to Madrid.</em></p>
A.J. Nelson
2011-10-19T08:04:00Z
Taylor delighted with Coloccini influence
Thomas Rooney
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Taylor-delighted-with-Coloccini-influence/441535870298064206.html
2011-10-18T15:01:00Z
2011-10-18T15:01:00Z
The pair have formed an excellent partnership this season, with Newcastle only conceding four goals in their opening seven Premier League games.<br /><br />This has helped Alan Pardew’s men climb to 4th in the table, meaning they occupy a Champions League place as things stand, something which nobody would have predicted after an eventful summer for the club.<br /><br />However, the entire team has been in form and played to the best of their ability, including Coloccini who Taylor was full of praise for.<br /><br />The 25-year-old said, “We've got a good understanding. It's good to work with him. He's got the experience and hopefully I can learn from him.”<br /><br />Another factor in Taylor’s successful start to the season has been his improved fitness of course and he revealed how important it was to go into the new campaign without any injury problems.<br /><br />He continued, "I had to get a good pre-season under my belt. Last year I wasn't particularly fit.<br /><br />“I came in the last three games of the season, chipped in with a few goals but I'd get to 70 minutes on the clock and cramp would kick in. I knew I wasn't fully fit but I needed to get through the season.<br /><br />"For me now I've had a full pre-season under my belt, I've played every game, and I'm delighted with my fitness. I just want to continue it now and play week in, week out.”<br /><br />Taylor will be hoping to continue his decent form against Tottenham this weekend. Newcastle host Harry Redknapp’s men on <span id="OBJ_PREFIX_DWT62_com_zimbra_date" class="Object">Sunday</span> afternoon in the clash of two form teams at St James Park.<br /><br />Newcastle will be hoping that home advantage tells against Spurs and that their excellent start to the campaign continues. Taylor and Coloccini will certainly be doing all they can to keep out a dangerous attacking side.<br /><br />While we wait for this one to get underway, it is certainly worth visiting <strong><a href="http://www.pokerstars.co.uk/"><span id="OBJ_PREFIX_DWT63_com_zimbra_url" class="Object">www.pokerstars.co.uk</span></a> <span id="OBJ_PREFIX_DWT64_com_zimbra_url" class="Object"><a href="http://www.pokerstars.co.uk/" target="_blank"></a></span></strong> this weekend. Poker and Premier League football – perfect!
Thomas Rooney
2011-10-18T15:01:00Z
Liver n'Onions: Well...history still could happen this year?
Nash Larson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Liver-nOnions:-Well...history-still-could-happen-this-year/995597864503805423.html
2011-10-18T01:31:00Z
2011-10-18T01:31:00Z
<p>Allegations accusing Luis Suarez of racially abusing Patrice Evra is not the only point that scarred the monumental occasion of Liverpool vs. Manchester United at the weekend. The play did that itself. In one of the most disappointing North West Derbies in recent memory, the players from both sides let the gravity of the occasion get to them, effecting the play on view. </p>
<p class="separator"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-As2FBSLcuKs/TpzWNz7YYsI/AAAAAAAAAYU/aOkkTrq54Kw/s1600/suarez+evra.jpg"><img style="float: right;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-As2FBSLcuKs/TpzWNz7YYsI/AAAAAAAAAYU/aOkkTrq54Kw/s400/suarez+evra.jpg" border="0" alt="" width="400" height="225" /></a>There was no real dirty play, with only four yellow cards between the two teams in the match; Liverpool with one to Manchester United's three. But the meandering of players more focused on not making mistakes in such a high profile match, rather than going hell for leather, made for a conservative and sloppy spectacle.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Both sides came out in a formation of 4-5-1, giving birth to the slop in the midfield, congesting it so much that the only way to clear it was with a hefty dose of Mucinex. Steven Gerrard marked his full return to the squad, starting from the beginning along side Lucas and Charlie Adam in the midfield. Leading the line for the Reds was Luis Suarez, whose performance was a mere shadow of that in the corresponding fixture last year. An on song Suarez still would have had a hard time breaking down the defense heavy ranks of United, with Phil Jones playing as a holding midfielder. I was shocked when I saw the line-up Sir Alex put out, not figuring him to make those drastic changes to his line-up. I pondered if both Sir Alex and Kenny Dalgleish had a pow wow before the game and decided to cahoot on tactics together.</p>
<p> "Alright let'us mash a whole bunch of players who don't like each together in the midfield and see what happens…good fun."</p>
<p> Liverpool's attack was crying out for either Andy Carroll or Dirk Kuyt to join the likes of Suarez up top. If not going two up top and having five in midfield, which was clearly pin-pointed as the must win area, the 1 in a 4-5-1 is tailor-made for an Andy Carroll type forward. Someone that can hold the ball up and bring others into the game. The diminutive Suarez is not that player, and with him up top alone Liverpool is forced to play differently, but they continued to loft the ball from the back and more often then not failed to find the head of Suarez. The lack of targets in the box rendered Stewart Downing's crosses wasteful and unproductive, and the link play between Lucas, Adam and Gerrard was a sight to forget. Under performing for me, Suarez fluffed a clear chance when he found himself with only United keeper David de Gea to beat, after Charlie Adam's 34th-minute shot kindly rebounded off Johnny Evans, but the Suarez shot straight at the goalkeeper who parried the ball to safety.</p>
<p> With the undeniably weaker United side, Liverpool held their own and it was any ones guess who would score first. The first half was dismal on all accounts, but with the dawn of the second half play perked up a smidge.</p>
<p> Captain fantastic came to the Scousers rescue once again scoring a welcome back goal, gifted to him by Ryan Giggs splitting off the United wall, allowing Stevie's free kick to arrow the back of the net. An emphatic slide capped his return to relevance, marking his 50th goal at Anfield and most importantly brought a beaming smile to this man's tired face. </p>
<p> <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0wCNPh_5lXI/TpzWgBFtVQI/AAAAAAAAAYc/7fSsU4Ve8A4/s1600/Steven-Gerrard-slide-261x300.jpg"><img style="float: right;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0wCNPh_5lXI/TpzWgBFtVQI/AAAAAAAAAYc/7fSsU4Ve8A4/s1600/Steven-Gerrard-slide-261x300.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a>United really didn't pose much in attack in the majority, but that blessing changed instantly with the introduction of Wayne Rooney, Chicharito and Nani - talk about impact subs. Impact is what they made as Chicharito headed home a corner leveling terms 1-1. Leave it to a Liverpool team to concede on a set piece. I know it's been a while since the days of Rafa, but that damn zonal marking came back to haunt us and robbed the Reds of the three points.</p>
<p> Omitted new-boy Jordan Henderson had a chance to illuminate his name in Scouse studded light's, but his head let him down, as he nodded a clear cut opportunity over the bar in stoppage time. </p>
<p> Forgive the somewhat sarcastic tone to this piece, but I cannot deny my disappointment. The spectacle was less than thrilling, and in all fairness a 1-1 is a decent result, but Liverpool had chances to separate themselves. I would have liked to see more attacking urgency, with the introduction of Andy Carroll. He scored in the Merseyside Derby a fortnight ago, and letting the big man slug it up top against Rio and Evans would have been a welcomed sight. I feel both frustrated at the fact we did bot take advantage of the weakened United squad. A draw is usually a good result to get against United, but I feel Liverpool had their number the whole game, yet still performing below-par. Stuff to ponder.<br /><br />When these two colossuses face off on February 11th I hold high hopes in seeing the game that the occasion deserves.</p>
<p>Liverpool face Rangers tomorrow in a friendly taking place at Ibrox, and are at home against Norwich at the weekend.</p>
<p> You can view more @ http://spotkickjournalism.blogspot.com/</p>
<p> </p>
Nash Larson
2011-10-18T01:31:00Z
Chelsea 3-1 Everton Review: Woeful Performance in Need of Perspective
James W. Hollis
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Chelsea-3-1-Everton-Review:-Woeful-Performance-in-Need-of-Perspective/752871375890914733.html
2011-10-17T21:30:00Z
2011-10-17T21:30:00Z
<p>This match review is not trying to gloss over the performance on Saturday. Everton was woeful defensively and had staggeringly little impetus going forward. Someone can argue all day that we need to play a 4-4-2 every match but that wouldn’t fix our problems. Louis Saha needs to improve his work rate on defense and either he or Tim Cahill needs to take an opportunity that falls their way. Throwing Vellios on from the beginning to partner Saha is not going to solve our problems. It might make us more likely to score, but when we give up three goals with an extra man in midfield it’s tough to argue that we should drop one of the defensive midfielders for an inexperienced striker.</p>
<p>Part in parcel with a lot of the criticism leveled at David Moyes after this (and every match Everton loses) is how defensive his tactics are. Many fans (me included) were unhappy when he took Cahill off and put Neville on in the 72nd minute. Despite my consternation at the time of the decision, I would now say that Moyes was trying to get a better attack going by stopping Chelsea’s forays into (and through) our midfield. Personally, I would have rather seen Vellios come on at that point because Saha’s work rate was infuriatingly casual but I think I need to row back on arguing that it was the worst substitution I’ve ever seen.</p>
<img src="/images/players/pensive Moyes.jpg" alt="" width="240" height="180" />
<p>Given how much our tactics seem to be focused on defense, it was upsetting for fans to see our defense crumbling because of more avoidable mistakes. These defensive lapses have been the bane of this season to date, as they have been at the beginnings of at least the past 4 seasons. The defense turns off for five seconds and then the other team scores. This happens regardless of whom we play and often sees Everton go down a goal after bossing a game for the first half hour. </p>
<p>As much as these defensive frailties are frustrating, there is a certain positive spin that can be placed on them this season. Let’s take a look at our points tallies after seven matches from the past five years:</p>
<p><strong>2011-2012: 7 played, 7 points</strong></p>
<p><strong>2010-2011: 7 played, 6 points </strong></p>
<p><strong>2009-2010: 7 played, 9 points </strong></p>
<p><strong>2008-2009: 7 played, 8 points</strong></p>
<p><strong>2007-2008: 7 played, 10 points</strong></p>
<p>The point totals are all woeful. However, in each of the four previous seasons, we have played one team that is considered part of the top five (United in 2010, Arsenal in 2009, Liverpool in 2008, and United in 2007). This season we’ve played three (City, Liverpool and Chelsea). This argument is not to say that we weren’t shocking in Saturday, but that in previous seasons we’ve amassed a similar tally at this point in the season against inferior teams. This means that, as bad as Everton was on Saturday, at least we have some winnable games coming down the road. Hopefully, we’ll shake off these early season defensive blunders by then.</p>
<p>Follow me on twitter: <a href="http://www.twitter.com/jwhollis">www.twitter.com/jwhollis/<br /><br /></a>Check out more post from me on www.followtonians.com</p>
James W. Hollis
2011-10-17T21:30:00Z
Kilmarnock and St Mirren drop easy points against Celtic and Rangers
Sandy Thin
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Kilmarnock-and-St-Mirren-drop-easy-points-against-Celtic-and-Rangers/960877574238136283.html
2011-10-17T14:48:00Z
2011-10-17T14:48:00Z
<p>Kilmarnock lost two points after strugglers Celtic fought back from a three goal deficit at half-time to gain a draw at Rugby Park. Meanwhile, at Ibrox, St Mirren were also unlucky to come away with only a point after Rangers produced one of their worst performances of the season. For the neutral, Kilmarnock and St Mirren missing out on these wins was the biggest disappointment since East Fife-Forfar ended two goals short of the perfect score line at 4-3.</p>
<p>Kilmarnock went into the game with all guns blazing. They demonstrated impressive team play with nice passing plays and were rewarded with three goals by half time, coming from Dean Shiels, Paul Heffernan and James Fowler. The score was still 3-0 to the home team with 15 minutes left on the clock; however, a three-minute-brace from Anthony Stokes and a header from defender Charlie Mulgrew saw the match end at 3-3. It was a very dramatic and was just a shame that the drama couldn’t have been added to by a late winner from either team.</p>
<p>For almost everyone, Celtic’s incredibly poor start to the season has been very depressing in some way. For Celtic fans, the disappointment in what looked at the start of the season to be a very strong side as they continually fail to meet their expectations, with only two wins in their last seven games. This is almost even more depressing for neutrals or fans of other SPL teams as despite this appalling form, the Glasgow side are still third in the league with a game in-hand after ten games. The sides just below the Old Firm should have capitalised on Celtic’s faults and seized their opportunity to bridge the gap between the Glasgow teams and the rest of Scotland; instead, we are left with Motherwell, who have put in a valiant effort, three points ahead of Celtic having played a game more and still seven points behind Rangers, and Hearts a point behind Celtic having also played a game more.</p>
<p>Rangers suffered possibly from a case of resting on their laurels. They have got by in so many games both this season and last with 1-0 victories having scored early in the second half and then just sitting back for the rest of the match. Why should this game be any different? Well it was, and Rangers were taken somewhat by surprise when plucky St Mirren came up with the goods in the 95<sup>th</sup> minute as ex-Ger Steven Thompson struck home after a pacy attack from the Buddies.</p>
<p>Elsewhere in the league, Motherwell beat Hibs 1-0 at Easter Road through an early strike from Jamie Murphy; Hearts won 2-0 against Dunfermline at East End Park thanks to goals from Andy Webster and Rudi Skacel; Aberdeen beat Dundee Utd 3-1 at Pittodrie while St Johnstone saw away Caley Thistle 2-0.</p>
<p><strong><br /></strong></p>
Sandy Thin
2011-10-17T14:48:00Z
Premier League Recap (October 14-15)
Adam Johnson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Premier-League-Recap-October-14-15/-770676268221039344.html
2011-10-17T05:44:00Z
2011-10-17T05:44:00Z
<p>The Premier League returned this weekend after an international break that saw maybe the league’s biggest star, Wayne Rooney, see his fair share of controversy. The England star was sent off in the nation’s last qualifying match for Euro 2012 for kicking a Montenegrin player in the back of the leg. Rooney was suspended three competitive matches, which will be England’s three group stage matches in next summer’s tournament. In light of all of this, Sir Alex Ferguson left Rooney out of the starting lineup for the lunchtime kickoff against Liverpool at Anfield.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Liverpool 1-1 Manchester United</span></p>
<p>After a tense first half this classic match-up livened up in the second. Steven Gerrard was making his first league start in what felt like years and he looked semi-close to his old self. After each team had a few chances it was Liverpool who looked the more likely and their best chance came after Rio Ferdinand clipped Charlie Adam just outside the box. Gerrard stepped up to take the free kick and it was United legend Ryan Giggs who flinched and allowed the ball to get through the wall and passed David de Gea. You just had to know that Manchester United weren’t done and Javier Hernandez, who came on in the second half, got a typical Chicharito goal to level it up in the 81st. Liverpool created a couple more chances, most notably Jordan Henderson’s missed header, but the match would end at 1-1.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Manchester City 4-1 Aston Villa</span></p>
<p>With United dropping points, this was City’s chance to finally be in first place outright. They took that chance with authority. There were plenty of players playing against their former club in this on and one in particular, James Milner for City (formerly of Villa), had maybe his best game since witching said clubs. Milner got City’s fourth goal on a classy finish, but the first was probably the goal of the weekend. As the ball bounced up in the box, Mario Balotelli had his back to goal and improvised with a perfect bicycle kick past Shay Given. Adam Johnson and Vincent Kompany were the other scorers for the home side as Stephen Warnock gave Villa at least something to go home with. Manchester City is top of the table.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Norwich 3-1 Swansea</span></p>
<p>This battle of newly promoted teams went to the home side, Swansea. Russell Martin scored in between Anthony Pilkington strikes to give Norwich their three goals. Danny Graham scored again for Swansea but Norwich looked pretty solid at home.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">QPR 1-1 Blackburn</span></p>
<p>This was not the headlining match of the weekend with both of these teams struggling so far in the early season. QPR’s Heidar Helguson and Blackburn’s Chris Samba made sure both teams left with a point.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Stoke 2-0 Fulham</span></p>
<p>With both clubs having Europa League games ahead of them, this match was a proving ground for who could handle Euopean football better. This round went to Stoke as Jonathan Walters and Rory Delap gave the Potters the three points.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Wigan 1-3 Bolton</span></p>
<p>Bolton got a big win in yet another matchup of struggling clubs. Nigel Reo-Coker got the opener for Bolton but a wonder goal by Mohamed Diame made it 1-1. Bolton kept attacking and David N’Gog gave them the lead before halftime. Kevin Davies missed a penalty but Chris Eagles made sure to finish off Wigan in the 90<sup>th</sup> minute.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Chelsea 3-1 Everton</span></p>
<p>The West London Blues continued their great run with another impressive performance at Stamford Bridge. Didier Drogba started again with Danny Sturridge. The front line looked really fluid with Juan Mata pulling the strings. Sturridge and John Terry both scored in the first half with Ramires adding a third after halftime. Everton sub, Apostolos Vellios, got one back but the three points would go to Chelsea.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">West Brom 2-0 Wolves</span></p>
<p>West Brom won this Midlands encounter. Chris Brunt scored early on and Peter Odemwingie added a second after coming on as a sub. Wolves continue to struggle while West Brom picked up a much needed win.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Arsenal 2-1 Sunderland</span></p>
<p>The two surprise bottom five teams met at the Emirates on Sunday and Arsenal’s captain rescued the home team once again. Robin van Persie scored just under 30 seconds into the game and it looked like the Gunners were ready to bust out with a huge win. Seb Larsson and Sunderland fought back though and Larsson’s free kick made it and even match. RVP rose up and got the winner on a brilliant free kick for Arsenal They really needed this confidence builder heading into a Champions League week.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Newcastle 2-2 Tottenham</span></p>
<p>This battle of top six clubs turned into a wild finish that really could’ve gone either way. Spurs got on the board first when Rafael van der Vaart finished off a penalty the Emmanuel Abebayor drew. Demba Ba continued his scoring spree for Newcastle when he tied it up at one all in the second half. Jermaine Defoe came on for van der Vaart and scored to give Tottenham the lead but Newcastle were undeterred. Shola Ameobi came on and then he scored with a world-class finish into the bottom right hand corner. Newcastle almost won it with a late flurry but would have to settle for 2-2.</p>
<p>Team of the week once again goes to Manchester City and their rampant gang of talented millionaires and internationals. Carlos Tevez is in Argentina, Sergio Aguero and Edin Dzeko were unfit and there were rumors of testy personalities in the locker room but this team just pushes through and keeps winning. Player of the week was a tough one but I have settled on Robin van Persie for his two goal performance that won it for his Arsenal side.</p>
Adam Johnson
2011-10-17T05:44:00Z
Milan vs. Palermo Review: Life a Little Rosier for the Rossoneri
Ogo Sylla
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Milan-vs.-Palermo-Review:-Life-a-Little-Rosier-for-the-Rossoneri/-133647484575795613.html
2011-10-16T21:42:00Z
2011-10-16T21:42:00Z
<p>There was obviously a lot of talk ahead of the game regarding Milan’s poor <em>Serie A</em> start as well as Zlatan Ibrahimovic’s worrying mid-week comments.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Ibrahimovic had made statements about his waning desire and enthusiasm for playing football during the international break. Comments that certainly had the Milan <em>tifosi</em> not only scratching their head but worried about potential future contributions from their Swedish talisman. After all, Ibrahimovic’s whimsical nature has been well documented throughout his career and the fear that this latest mood swing would coincide with an inopportune dip in form was cause for concern.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>However it was the opposite as Ibrahimovic gave one of his best performances to date. The Swedish striker was all over the pitch, dropping into midfield, working the flanks, harrying the opposition, and making himself available for the team. The big difference between this Ibrahimovic and the one we are more accustomed to had to do with both his positioning and role within the tactical setup. In his usual scheme, Massimiliano Allegri plays Ibrahimovic as a <em>prima punta</em> (target striker) who stays up top and serves as a focal point for the team from which to play. However the Swede played much deeper, almost in a <em>trequartista</em> (playmaker) role with Robinho & Antonio Cassano making runs ahead of him. I have always been of the opinion that many coaches – Fabio Capello [when at Juventus] most notably – have unfairly type-casted Ibrahimovic as a hold-up striker due to the Swede’s strength and size. However Ibrahimovic’s greatest assets are his vision, passing range, and ability to unlock defenses without the use of his formidable athletic gifts. Bearing this in mind, the idea of Ibrahimovic as a playmaker is not so farfetched after all, having been responsible for the cross that found Alberto Aquilani in open space to tee up Antonio Nocerino for the opener, as well as for assisting Robinho’s goal.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Playing Ibrahimovic in a slightly more withdrawn role not only got the best of the Swede but it also added fluency to Milan’s game that was really missing in recent weeks. When Ibrahimovic plays as a <em>prima punta</em>, Milan not only too early but too often opt for the verticality in order to take advantage of the Swede’s hold-up play and singular ability to pierce defenses on his own. In other words, the team becomes all too reliant – and detrimentally so – on the Swede and simply lobs the ball up to him in the hopes that he will make the individual difference. However, with him dropping deeper and partnering him with Robinho and Cassano, it offered much more variety to the <em>Rossoneri</em> attack. In a way it blurred the reference point and made it more difficult for the Palermo defenders to pick any of the forwards up for marking. Robinho and Cassano were constantly moving by going wide, cutting in from the flanks, dropping deep, making runs and calling for the ball in the verticality or for a simple one-two at the edge of the box. Indeed it was the most complete offensive display we have seen from the <em>Rossoneri</em> so far this season.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Playing Ibrahimovic in the <em>trequartista</em> position may have also solved a worrying tactical conundrum for Allegri: Kevin Prince Boateng. The Ghanaian flourished in this position last season that Allegri has assigned him too ever since. However, there is a considerable change of pace/rhythm when Boateng is absent from the lineup. In effect it was his physicality and athleticism that are missing, and the fact that neither of Cassano or Robinho can make up for it has been an issue in the sense that Allegri always needs to tweak his tactical setup because of it. When Boateng plays as the <em>trequartista</em>, he does so as a pivot. That is to say that he is the midfield’s first reference point in that the deepest players [defenders and midfielders] look for him first. Unlike a static pivot however, he plays in relays [one-twos] in a fetch-and-carry role that accelerates ball movement and facilitates fluency in the transitional phases [from defense to offense] of the game. Cassano is unable to play this role for lack of pace, and neither is Robinho for his lack of physicality and ability to hold the ball up. Ibrahimovic is the best candidate in that he possesses all the necessary athletic gifts as well as offers an even greater passing range than Boateng, which [in truth] makes the Swede a more viable candidate for the role.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Whether Allegri played Ibrahimovic in the <em>trequartista </em>role with the intention to replicate Boateng’s effect or simply gave him freedom to roam with the Swede simply putting himself in his comfort zone, Milan have seemingly turned the page today by not only winning but producing good football. The performances of Cassano for the <em>Azzurri</em> may have also convinced Allegri to play the Italian further up top where he can be a greater goal threat. When Boateng returns, it would not be a surprise to see Ibrahimovic allow Cassano play ahead of him while he swaps positions with Boateng throughout the match, just as he did yesterday with Robinho at times. Indeed the one who finds himself threatened right now is Alexandre Pato, who requires for the ball to be played in more vertical spaces and thus would make the <em>Rossoneri</em> attack slightly more one-dimensional. It is also good to note that the football proposed against Palermo was made possible by a midfield setup where Nocerino and Aquilani offered a lot of running than when the veteran Clarence Seedorf is present. Ibrahimovic dropping deeper also offered the <em>Rossoneri</em> more ball retention in midfield – and thus more possession (69%) – as well as more presence in an area where other teams had been overrunning them in past games. The most important lesson gained from this however is certainly that the team has learnt to play without Boateng, especially given the fact that the Ghanaian will be off to the African Cup of Nations in January. </p>
Ogo Sylla
2011-10-16T21:42:00Z
Billy Beane Shows his support for WFD
Rafa
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Billy-Beane-Shows-his-support-for-WFD/705695665066017248.html
2011-10-16T15:55:00Z
2011-10-16T15:55:00Z
It's true. Billy Beane is not only a fan of World Football Daily, but a subscriber who says that WFD is his favorite podcast out there. <br /><br />Look, I'm not trying to to give us an undeserved "pat on the back" (ok, sort of), but we must be doing something right if the guy who got Brad Pitt to play him in a movie about his life is saying he's listening to us because we cover the game of soccer so well.<br /><br /><em><strong>"I listen to a lot of podcasts. My favorite is <a href="/">World Football Daily</a>. It’s a two-hour soccer podcast. It’s got a lot of correspondents from all over the world who cover soccer."</strong><br /><br /></em>Thanks Billy for being such a loyal supporter and subscriber. If you wanted to check out the entire article, you can find it in the New York Times Sunday Review, - <a title="Billy Beane" href="http://www.nytimes.com/2011/10/16/opinion/sunday/billy-beane.html?_r=1" target="_blank">Billy Beane</a>.<em><br /></em>
Rafa
2011-10-16T15:55:00Z
Put Up or Shut Up: Gunners Turning Point
Joaquin Reyes
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Put-Up-or-Shut-Up:-Gunners-Turning-Point/39379341048754622.html
2011-10-15T09:04:00Z
2011-10-15T09:04:00Z
<br />Club football returns this weekend after the longest of interlulls. Normally I am chomping at the bit to watch my Arsenal but this week I find myself feeling emotions I never thought possible regarding the finest club in London.
<p> Apprehension. Uncertainty. Dread?</p>
<p> People say we have lost our mystique, our swagger. They may be right. This Arsenal side doesn't inspire much at the moment, dropping points like it's going out of fashion and producing displays that can generously be described as inconsistent.</p>
<p> I, for the first time, am genuinely worried about the state of the squad, and the club. Arsenal is not going through a crisis, but these hiccups and results can gather steam, leading to bigger problems. It's time to stop the rot. The perfect time would have been to make a statement in beating Tottenham to send everyone into the break feeling good about things, but unfortunately that was not to be. So what now?</p>
<p> Everyone has excuses and scapegoats, but the truth of the matter is that the Arsenal squad is still strong, strong enough to contend, skillful enough to impress, and brimming with young talent. Many a youngster has already impressed this term, particularly Coquelin and Oxlade-Chamberlain. I expect to see more contributions from the powerhouses Chuks Aneke and Emmanuel Frimpong, as well as the exciting Ryo Myaichi, but none of these players are ready to carry a team. The future may look bright, but we need continued success in the short term to secure more top talent in the long term. We have ridden the success of decades prior to continue bringing in top players, but the young men these days will soon have been raised in eras where they don't remember The Invincibles and only know of teams like Manchester United, Chelsea, and soon to be City winning titles. Scary thought. </p>
<p> <br />It is imperative that the club makes their ambition clear to our established stars that Arsenal are here to win, and will do their best to make that happen. We need Sagna, Vermaelen, Walcott, and van Persie to sign new contracts this season, and it should start with Robin. He is the new captain and has voiced his love for the club. I believe Arsenal can succeed without him, but the message it would send if he left would be devastating. Like rats fleeing a sinking ship, the thought of it unbearable. It is up to the club to prove this ambition and give a signal with an impressive signing, maybe even with van Persie's input as to what we need. When he signs, the rest will follow suit.</p>
<p> Even with all of the discontent, the season is not lost. We will not win the league but anything else is possible. There are 93 points still to play for and our realistic goal is to finish fourth. If we can't finish ahead of the inconsistent Liverpool and shit Tottenham then Arsenal don't deserve Champion's League football. There are cups to win and it's down to the squad now. This is the moment to turn it around; there are no more excuses. The squad has had six weeks to gel, players have had their chances, and we have players getting fit. The experienced leaders need to instill the determination to win and a refusal to fail back into the dressing room and more importantly, back onto the pitch. </p>
<p> I see leaders, and I see a spine. The spine of this team is so integral to Arsenal's success and unfortunately this area has been decimated with regularity by injuries. More important than all others is Vermaelen. I still maintain we would have won trophies last year were he fit and the few matches he has played this season demonstrate the effect he has on our defense and composure, not to mention the intensity he brings. The loss of Wilshere is brutal, but even without him our spine can be strong. Our spine runs straight up the middle, beginning with Szczesny, to Vermaelen, and up to van Persie. With this core intact, and one midfielder stepping up, be it Ramsey or Arteta, we have a team that can compete and that I can be proud to say are willing to fight for Arsenal. </p>
<p> It's going to take time for it all to come together, but we need to put a run together of positive results and the confidence will come back, as well as the much-needed swagger. As worried as I am, I have faith this team can turn it around and restore the pride of Gooners worldwide. With that, I look forward to an early Sunday morning at the pub, and hope for that victory that will make the pints taste better and the sun shine brighter, for there is no better way to start a Sunday than an Arsenal victory before breakfast. Up the Arse!<br /><br />Follow me on Twitter @MorningPint http://twitter.com/#!/MorningPint</p>
Joaquin Reyes
2011-10-15T09:04:00Z
Don't Bring Your Significant Others to Chelsea
James W. Hollis
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Dont-Bring-Your-Significant-Others-to-Chelsea/489941030606972902.html
2011-10-15T04:35:00Z
2011-10-15T04:35:00Z
<p>The Premier League world awakes blearily from another international break this weekend. The end of the international break sees Everton ensconced in one of the toughest five-match stretches in recent memory. Already having lost to Manchester City 2-0, the Merseyside Derby was ruined by the <a href="http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/965835/everton's-jack-rodwell-has-derby-day-red-card-rescinded?cc=5901">(now rescinded)</a> red card that Martin Atkinson waved at Jack Rodwell in the 23rd minute. Now, Everton faces Chelsea at Stamford Bridge, Fulham at Craven Cottage, Chelsea at Goodison (League Cup), and Manchester United at Goodison (annual 'Hate Wayne Rooney' day).</p>
<p>It has now been almost a month since Everton's last point. Miserable refereeing decisions aside, we need to secure at least some points during this period. Everton has not been playing poorly this season (the schedule-makers just have it in for us)!</p>
<p>I always have hope when we play Chelsea because <em>what Everton's good at is what Chelsea's bad at. </em>For all of their oligarch-assembled squad and the best new fad manager money can buy (and Abramovich can fire after two seasons), Chelsea's back line is susceptible to high balls into the box.</p>
<p>Petr Cech is questionable in the air. I'm not sure whether it's caused by <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F9I-SEEF94Y">the emotional baggage following his disastrous penalty shank in the Champions League final</a> or the karma that's attached to him <a href="http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1247408/John-Terry-Wayne-Bridges-girlfriend-Vanessa-Perroncel-pregnant--England-captain-arranged-abortion.html">after he had a sexual relationship with his teammate's former fiancé</a> but John Terry can't jump anymore. Also, <a href="/loves%20scoring%20against%20Chelsea.">Louis Saha loves scoring against John Terry.</a> Memorably, <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3kOzGLJUNO8">he scored the fastest goal in FA Cup Final history in 2009.</a> Tim Cahill also <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IHffsMNAekk">loves scoring against Chelsea.</a> They're my biggest hope for the match Saturday.</p>
<p>Everton's past three visits to Stamford Bridge have been draws. I think that we'll be lucky to see a draw tomorrow. Unfortunately, our best chance to get a point went away after Fernando 'Ladyboy' Torres got sent off against Swansea for a <a href="http://www.soccer-blogger.com/2011/09/24/fernando-torres-red-card-vs-swansea-2011-chelsea-video-torres-mark-gower-tackle-sent-off/">challenge more hideous</a> than his <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AKdkflNzNG8">miss against United</a>. This means that we have to face Didier Drogba. He's the exact type of player that our back line has problems with. Inevitably, we will allow chances and Drogba has the skill to put them away.</p>
<p>As is often the case, our chance to get the spoils tomorrow will be determined by whether we can get around Chelsea's outside backs and how often we can craft quality set pieces. As such, Louis Saha and Leighton Baines will be key tomorrow. Louis will be drawing freekicks and Leighton must put them away like he did <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ahuZeSyw3No">against Chelsea in the FA Cup last season</a>. Also, I know I've been saying it for the past month but Tim Cahill is primed to score in one of these big matches. He's had two weeks to think about his missed opportunities against City and the kopites and he's <em>will</em> be a threat tomorrow.</p>
<p>I haven't felt good about a match against Chelsea since the 2009 FA Cup Final. Call it conditioning, but I always get depressed and think we're going to lose against them. Of course, every time I've felt that way we've gotten at least a point.</p>
<p>Here are some key battles to watch on Saturday:</p>
<p>(The aforementioned) <strong>Louis Saha v. John Terry</strong></p>
<p><strong>Seamus Coleman (if he starts) v. (c)Ashley Cole:</strong> Seamus really has it in for Chelsea. These are the matches where I always exclaim, "I love how Seamus Coleman plays football." Whether it's the late challenge on Cole that should have been a penalty or his shove on John Terry in the FA Cup match last year, Seamus will have fire in his belly for this game; I hope he gets the start.</p>
<p><strong>Chelsea v. Jack Rodwell</strong>: Chelsea has never won a match against Everton with Jack Rodwell in the team.</p>
<p><strong>Tim Cahill v. God: </strong>God knows it's time for Tim Cahill to score a goal and, for my part, I hope it's tomorrow.</p>
<p><strong>David Moyes v. The Urge to Play Tim Cahill Alone Up Top: </strong>Please David, Just play Louis.</p>
<p><strong>My XI to start: </strong>Tim 'USA King' Howard, Pip Neville, Phil the Jag, 'Buzz' Distin, Leighton Baines, Fellaini, Drenthe, Coleman, Osman, Cahill, Saha</p>
<p><strong>Subs that will be made: </strong>Jack 'Martin Atkinson is a cheating bastard' Rodwell, Vellios, Hibbert (ftw)</p>
<p><strong>How many times Saha will skin Terry: +/- 5</strong></p>
<p><strong>Result: </strong>1-1 or 2-2</p>
<p>See you in the Carling Cup in a week.</p>
<p>Follow me on twitter: www.twitter.com/jwhollis<br /><br />Check out my other ravings on www.knowmersey.com </p>
<p> </p>
James W. Hollis
2011-10-15T04:35:00Z
Milan vs. Palermo Preview: Mexes Debut
Ogo Sylla
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Milan-vs.-Palermo-Preview:-Mexes-Debut/540200763832032665.html
2011-10-14T17:24:00Z
2011-10-14T17:24:00Z
<p>Philippe Mexes is expected to make his long-awaited return from injury and debut for Milan. The Frenchman suffered from a cruciate ligament knee injury, which had ruled him out since last April. In other words Mexes has not played any type of football for about 6 months and thus the excitement of his return must be tempered.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>In effect, <em>Milanisti</em> all over are delighted that Mexes is able to slot in for the recently injured Alessandro Nesta. However the questions I ask are the following: is he match-fit enough and how will he cope with the pace of a real competitive game after so much time out? Indeed returning from such a serious and debilitating injury is not as straightforward as it might seem. Mexes has always been a player prone to pace, and now more so than ever [due to the injury], and that will be an issue. We all remember the times when Alexandre Pato took the Frenchman for pace and left him in the dust in past seasons. Against a threat like Abel Hernandez, <em>Milanisti</em> should be worried as Mexes could struggle.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Barring the physical handicap, we must remember that Mexes is coming into a brand new defense. Thiago Silva is a completely new partner and the whole of the defense and Milan system are brand new to Mexes. Having been injured this whole time, the Frenchman did not even benefit from getting to know his teammates [on the pitch] by participating in the pre-season. Next to his injury, this is an almost bigger handicap as we all know how important communication and being in sync are important when it comes to the back-four. Not knowing his partners’ tendencies and vice-versa will make it very hard for Mexes in a defense that has not looked anything as organized as it was last season. Christian Abbiati, who has been suspect in recent weeks, will be getting to know a new partner that he will have to be able to anticipate for and position throughout a match. In the heat of a game – during any set-piece for instance – hesitation may creep in as unfamiliarity with Mexes’ tendencies may cause short-circuiting in the defense’s communication. Another point to bear in mind is that Mark Van Bommel hasn’t been in the greatest of forms. Consequently, should the Dutchman have another poor outing tomorrow, Mexes could find himself more exposed than he might like to.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Of course <em>Milanisti </em>will be quick to point out that the excellent Thiago Silva will clean up any issues Mexes might have. In addition, the pace of Ignazio Abate covering behind him should help Mexes settle down a bit more. My only issue with Mexes’ debut – if he is to start of course, which is unsure until we see the team sheet – is that it will be against a team that attacks at pace, in waves, and relentlessly. With the pace of Hernandez, the guile of Fabrizio Miccoli, and the strength of Mauricio Pinilla, Mexes could have a tough match come Saturday. Personally I’d prefer to have seen another defender in there, but with only Daniele Bonera and Nesta [not 100% fit] able to slot in his place, I could be convinced to reconsider.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Milan will need to pick up a win and thus pick up the pace in order to put their <em>Scudetto</em> defense on track. Robinho is said to be returning, which will be great news as his partnership with Zlatan Ibrahimovic last season was a very fruitful one. With the issues in defense, Massimiliano Allegri will maybe have to switch the emphasis of his team and focus more on scoring goals as opposed to preventing them as it had been the formula to last season’s <em>Scudetto</em> success. The <em>Rosanero</em> is definitely a team against which such an approach is viable, as it they are always likely to score goals themselves just as they are prone to concede them. In Milan’s current state, and given all issues mentioned above regarding a premature selection of Mexes in central defense, Allegri simply has to go for it and play to out-score the opposition. </p>
Ogo Sylla
2011-10-14T17:24:00Z
Chelsea Opposition Scout Report: Everton
Lamin Oo
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Chelsea-Opposition-Scout-Report:-Everton/-530224713162576208.html
2011-10-13T18:29:00Z
2011-10-13T18:29:00Z
Club football finally returns this Saturday after another lethargic international break. And what a treat we have this weekend with Everton visiting Stamford Bridge for a mouth-watering game of football. Everton come into this game on the back of two league defeats, while Chelsea has enjoyed solid victories in recent league fixtures.<br /><br />History tells us that this is going to be a tight game. Chelsea will most likely take the initiative in attacking department: long-range efforts and fast paced counter attacks maybe the sources of goals for the home team. Everton's goal threat from set-pieces, high crosses and long balls may well be the thorns that prick Andre Villas-Boas's hand as he reach for the rose of victory. Here is my scout report.<br /><br /><strong><em style="background-color: yellow;">Current Form...<br /><br /><img style="margin: 5px auto; display: block;" src="/images/blog/Last Five League Games Results.jpg" alt="" width="391" height="128" /><br /></em></strong>Everton come to Stamford Bridge at the back to two 2-0 defeats: one is away to Manchester City and another is at home to Liverpool. Looking at the last five league games though, Everton's form has been predictable: they have beaten teams they<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><em>should</em> beat (e.g. Blackburn and Wigan), drawn against team they<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><em>should<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></em>draw against (e.g. Aston Villa), and lost to team they<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><em>should</em> lose to (e.g Manchester City). The result, and the performance, in the Merseyside derby is an outlier (aka an exception, not a norm).<br /><br />So far, the Toffees have not been terrible, but they have not been impressive either. Their defense has been their weakness. In the league they have only kept one clean sheet; even that was in the game against a Blackburn side which failed to score from two penalties. The only defensive record Eventon fans can be proud of this season is that they have not conceded from set-pieces (not even from the three penalties they have given away) in the league. At Stamford Bridge, Everton manager David Moyes will want a solid performance from his defense.<br /><br /><strong><em style="background-color: yellow;">Last Time Out...<br /><br /><img style="margin: 5px auto; display: block;" src="/images/blog/Everton Starting XI v Liverpool.jpg" alt="" /><br /></em></strong>With the return of Louis Saha<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><span style="text-decoration: line-through;">from injury</span> into the starting lineup<strong>*</strong>, Everton set out an<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><em>attacking</em><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>4-4-2 lineup, with Tim Cahill roaming behind the French striker, against Liverpool at Goodinson Park. Fullbacks Baines and Hibbert pushed up to support the wide midfielders Osman and Coleman. Rodwell held down the midfield while Fellaini connected Everton's attack and defense.<br /><br /><strong>*</strong><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Apparently, Saha has been<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><a style="text-decoration: none; color: #174a82;" href="http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/957970/everton-striker-loius-saha-?cc=5901">"fit" but out of favor</a>.<br /><br />
<div>The controversial red card to Jack Rodwell at the 23rd minute forced Everton to change their plan but their starting lineup showed attacking intent against Liverpool. Perhaps, it is not surprising because Everton were the home team. In their home games against Aston Villas and Wigan, Eveton played with three attacking midfielders – Osman, Coleman and Bilyaledinov – running the show in front of two defensive midfielders – Rodwell and Fellaini.<br /><br />However, their approach to the away game against Chelsea might be different. Against high flying Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium, David Moyes put out a defensive 4-5-1 – five-men midfield of Osman, Coleman, Rodwell, Fellaini and Neville, with Tim Cahill as the lone striker.</div>
<br /><img style="margin: 5px auto; display: block;" src="/images/blog/Everton Defending Banks 3.jpg" alt="" width="457" height="254" /><br />
<div><em></em><span class="Apple-converted-space">The above picture </span>shows Everton defending with two banks of four (blue squares) – four midfielders and four defenders – with Phil Neville (red square) sitting right in front of the two center backs. You can also see that all ten outfield players are defending from their half. It worked for the most part – many of Man City's chances coming from the outside the box – and Everton hung on for 68 minutes until the deadlock was broken by Mario Balotelli's goal, which, again, came from outside the 18-yard box. [<strong>Note</strong>: You can watch the extended highlights of that game<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><a style="text-decoration: none; color: #174a82;" href="http://www.mcfc.co.uk/Video/Match-highlights/City-v-Everton-extended-highlights-24092011">here</a>.]<br /><br /></div>
<div>The question is – will Everton come to Stamford Bridge to primarily defend or attack? Without Saha, I would have guessed that they will set up to defend with a 4-5-1, but with the striker<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><span style="text-decoration: line-through;">fit</span> back in favor, Moyes might just opt for a 4-4-2 or 4-4-1-1 to get a result.</div>
<br /><strong><em style="background-color: yellow;">How They Concede...<br /><br /></em></strong>As I mentioned above, the Toffees have had their share of defensive problems this season. So, it will probably take a whole new blog post to really analyze the way they have conceded all their goals. However, if Everton were to approach the Chelsea game in the way they did the Manchester City game (which is quite plausible, since both away games against <em>superior</em><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>opponents), then it might be wise to look particularly at the way Everton conceded goals against the Citizens. <br /><br /><img style="margin: 5px auto; display: block;" src="/images/blog/Everton Defending Banks 2.jpg" alt="" width="486" height="269" /><br />City's first goal came from a long-range effort by Mario Balotelli from the edge of the D. But even before the Italian opened the scoring, there were warning signs for Everton. <br /><br />Against City, Everton defended deep using two banks of players to protect Tim Howard's goal. <em></em>In the picture above, we see eight Everton players (blue squares) dropping back to defend five City players. Although Everton did well to defend by numbers, especially in their penalty box, they did allow City's attackers time and space to shoot from distance. In this case, Nasri (light blue square) took his chance from that position. Only Howard's save kept the scoreline at 0-0. <br /><br /><img style="margin: 5px auto; display: block;" src="/images/blog/Mario Goal.jpg" alt="" width="488" height="249" /><br />
<div>When Mario Balotelli (red square) scored his goal from the edge of the D, there were nine Everton players (blue squares) back defending. Kun Aguero dribbled across the face of the Everton defensive line before back-heeling the ball to Balotelli who scored with the help of a slight deflection. There are two mistakes here: Aguero should not have been given the chance to dribble at the edge of the area and Balotelli should not have been given the time/space to shoot.<br /><br /></div>
<div>The lesson from these two instances is that Everton will allow opposition to shoot from distance even though they have a lot of players back to defend. Written with big bold letters and highlighted with the brightest colors on top of Villas-Boas's training agenda before this game should be:<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><strong><em style="background-color: yellow;">LONG-RANGE SHOOTING PRACTICE!!!</em></strong><strong></strong> If Chelsea can keep their long-range shots on target, goals will come either directly or from deflections and loose balls.</div>
<br /><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="/images/blog/City's Second Goal.jpg" alt="" width="494" height="253" /><br />
<div>City's second goal, just as the first, has a touch of magic and a pinch of luck. David Silva intercepted Everton substitute Royston Drenthe's poor pass around the halfway line and started a quick counter attack. The Spaniard, who had little support at first, was able to hold of Everton's defenders and slipped a beautiful through ball to oncoming James Milner who calmly found the back of the net.</div>
<div>As you can see in the picture above<span class="Apple-converted-space"><em></em></span><em></em>, the Everton defense were caught off-guard by the pace of this counter attack. Usually, they had eight or nine at the back, but now they had four. It is not hard to substitute Mata for Silva and Ramires for Milner in this scenario. If Chelsea can execute quick counter attacking play like this against the Toffees, goals will not be hard to come by.</div>
<br /><strong><em style="background-color: yellow;">Goal Threat...<br /><br /></em></strong>Although Everton's goal-scoring record this season has not been stellar, their strength in set-pieces, high crosses and long balls can really exploit Chelsea's weakness in these exact areas – if I remember correctly, aside from goals scored by Shane Long, Wayne Rooney and Nani, all other goals that Chelsea have conceded in the league so far came from opposition's set-pieces or high crosses or long balls. Anyway, we can see Everton's goal threat by looking at the three goals they scored against Wigan a few weeks ago.<br /><br /><img style="margin: 5px auto; display: block;" src="/images/blog/Everton Header Goal.jpg" alt="" width="465" height="239" /><br />The Toffees scored their first goal from a corner. Leon Osman took Everton's corner from the left. Tim Cahill (red square), in the back post, jumped the highest to meet this cross. Notice another<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>red square<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>in the 6-yard box. That is Phil Jagielka. And he is highlighted here because...<br /><br /><img style="margin: 5px auto; display: block;" src="/images/blog/Everton Header Goal 2.jpg" alt="" width="494" height="239" /><br />Cahill's initial header rattled the crossbar and the ball flew straight into the path of Jagielka (red square) who was waiting for the second ball in the 6-yard box. This is particularly alarming for Chelsea because we have not been able to deal with set-piece crosses that were aimed at the back post (<a style="text-decoration: none; color: #174a82;" href="http://carefreechronicles.blogspot.com/2011/10/pointing-fingers-shocking-set-piece.html">this</a><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>and<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><a style="text-decoration: none; color: #174a82;" href="http://carefreechronicles.blogspot.com/2011/09/pointing-fingers-marking-mess-against.html">this</a><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>are my two quick references). Let's look at the next goal.<br /><br /><img style="margin: 5px auto; display: block;" src="/images/blog/Everton Headed Goal 3.jpg" alt="" width="470" height="241" /><br />Right back Tony Hibbert was the creator of Everton's second goal against Wigan. The fullback bombed forward on Everton's right and swung in a dangerous high cross into Wigan's box. Substitute Apostolos Vellios made a quick dash between the two stagnant Wigan defenders and headed the ball home. Pretty straight forward stuff. Next!<br /><br /><img style="margin: 5px auto; display: block;" src="/images/blog/Everton Long Ball Goal.jpg" alt="" width="486" height="240" /><br />The third is the kind of goal Sam Allardyce would have loved for any of his teams to score. Tim Howard punted a long ball forward. A player in an advance position nodded the ball down into the path of Royston Drenthe (red square) who was making a clever diagonal run.<br /><br /><img style="margin: 5px auto; display: block;" src="/images/blog/Everton Long Ball Goal 2.jpg" alt="" width="477" height="236" /><br />Drenthe, then, dribbled the ball straight towards the Wigan goal and poked it past the keeper to put the cheery on top of Everton's win.<br /><br /><em><strong style="background-color: yellow;">What Needs to Be Done...<br /><br /></strong></em>So, in order to bag all three points against Everton, Chelsea will need to be clinical with their finishing. Although Everton defend with numbers in the back, they do allow shots to be taken from outside the box. If Chelsea players can keep those shots on target, there will be plenty of goal-scoring opportunities in this game. Also, fast paced counter attacks are the only way to catch Everton's defense in lesser numbers than eight. Speed and precision will be key to executing such counter attacks. Finally, be wary of Everton's goal threats from set-pieces, high crosses and long balls. They are direct, brutal and effective. I can see both teams scoring in this game and it will be the case of having to score at least one more than the opposition.<br />
<p><em>Carefree, wherever you may be...</em></p>
<p>You can follow me on twitter <a href="http://www.twitter.com/carefreechronic">@CareFreeChronic</a>.</p>
<p>You can read my other posts on my blog <a href="http://www.carefreechronicles.blogspot.com/">CareFreeChronicles.blogspot.com</a> or</p>
<p>at <a href="http://bluetinted.com/">BlueTinted.com</a>.</p>
Lamin Oo
2011-10-13T18:29:00Z
International Breaks - Yawns, Excitement and Fear
A.J. Nelson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/International-Breaks---Yawns,-Excitement-and-Fear/-134695272270507805.html
2011-10-10T18:32:00Z
2011-10-10T18:32:00Z
<p>The week of the international break was yawn-inducing for some. Portugal vs. Iceland is not a game to hurry home for, unless you are from one of those countries. For others, this international break offered some delectable morsels including the first World Cup qualifiers, with Argentina vs. Chile, and a Mexico vs. Brazil friendly that turned out to not be so friendly. For some, however, the international break was a time to hold your breath and pray.</p>
<p>Real Madrid had 13 players on international duty. There would have been more if not for the recent international retirement by Carvalho and injuries for Karim Benzema, Pepe and Fábio Coentrão. Youngster Raphäel Varane was on duty for the French under-21 squad. Hamit Altintop was on call for Turkey. Naturally, Cristiano Ronaldo was called up by Portugal. Gonzalo Higuain and Ángel Di María headed to South America for games with Argentina. Marcelo joined the Brazilian squad for friendlies in Costa Rica and Mexico. Mesut Özil and Sami Khedira joined their German teammates for Euro 2012 qualifiers (although Germany had already qualified). The remainder of the Madrid players: Iker Casillas, Raul Albiol, Álvaro Arbeloa, Xabi Alonso and Sergio Ramos were called up for Spain (Spain also having qualified for Euro 2012).</p>
<p>For the Spaniards, they were having a good time in the Czech Republic, albeit a little bored. The evidence included some pictures from a <em>Parchis</em> game (thanks @XabiAlonso – the girls appreciated those) as well as the following:<br /><br />Quite a few of the Madridistas had significant impacts in their games. Higuain continued his impressive run of late scoring a hat trick for Argentina against Chile (with 2 of those goals being assisted by Di María). Alonso would take a great pass from David Silva and capitalize beautifully for Spain against the Czech Republic. Cristiano Ronaldo didn’t score for Portugal against Iceland, but his impact is always felt as competitors turn their focus to him, ignoring other strong players who can easily score. He would score against Denmark, but Portugal will still need to fight for a place in Euro 2012. Altintop and Khedira played against each other as Germany faced Turkey. Özil would not play in that game, but scored a fantastic goal against Belgium. It would be Marcelo's stunner and game winner for a 10-men Brazil squad against Mexico that would be my pick for the best goal of the international break.</p>
<p><img style="margin: 5px; float: left;" src="/images/blog/x610.jpg" alt="" width="233" height="508" />The good time feeling about the break would change, at least for Madrid fans. Sergio Ramos would be subbed at half in Spain's match against the Czech Republic due to a thigh problem. Raul Albiol was not available for Spain against Scotland (and apparently will not be available for Madrid for 3 weeks) as he suffered a fractured cheek bone in training. However, it was the hit on Xabi Alonso in the Czech game that caused most of Madrid and Spain to hold their breath and pray. Love or hate Madrid, love or hate Spain, you have to admire Alonso. Liverpool fans still mourn his loss. José Mourinho has admitted that he is an irreplaceable and key component to the squad. The Czech player knew immediately that he had made a poor decision as he slid in with a high boot, studs up (see picture left). Alonso is not the player that goes down. He is not the player that the stretcher is called for. To see him limping, barely able to stand, and then to watch as he headed straight to the locker room, struggling, was difficult. [Note: He apparently suffered a severe bruise, practiced fully and, although fit, did not figure in the Scotland match (apparently Arbeloa's superheroes were looking out for him).]</p>
<p>The players on international duty are now headed home and it appears there were no more significant injuries. A sigh of relief can be taken. Now one can only help wondering if there was any more <em>Parchis</em> time before the players returned. Pictures welcome and encouraged.</p>
<p><em>A.J. Nelson can be found on Twitter @FootieObsessed.</em></p>
A.J. Nelson
2011-10-10T18:32:00Z
Liver n'Onions: History happens twice a year, Liverpool vs. Manchester United
Nash Larson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Liver-nOnions:-History-happens-twice-a-year,-Liverpool-vs.-Manchester-United/-191974404868722154.html
2011-10-10T09:06:00Z
2011-10-10T09:06:00Z
<p>Located a mere 42 miles away, the two great footballing cities of Manchester and Liverpool rely, and since the 1950's into the 60's, when both teams started seeing up-ward success, the rivalry intensified. Know as the North-West Derby, these two footballing juggernauts battle on the day the resulting ramifications carry further, reverberating into talk of the most successful club in England. <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7cgJxIOm0wk/TpK0R3TiIMI/AAAAAAAAAWk/aiJc9SMmMiQ/s1600/113303724_display_image.jpg"><img style="float: right;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7cgJxIOm0wk/TpK0R3TiIMI/AAAAAAAAAWk/aiJc9SMmMiQ/s320/113303724_display_image.jpg" border="0" alt="" width="240" height="320" /></a></p>
<p>Liverpool is regarded as the most successful of the English clubs, a moniker that seems to be out dated with Manchester United surpassing their League title record of 18. Between the two clubs they have won the league 37 times, United with 19 and Liverpool with 18. Looking at both clubs United has enjoyed more success of late having won the League last year and reaching the Champions League final, while Liverpool struggled to break into the top five, settling into sixth when all was said and done. As Liverpool endures a re-building process under manager Kenny Dalgleish, Manchester United has arguably the best manager of all time, Sir Alex Ferguson, at the helm constantly evolving his team of experienced talent and promising youth. The two fabled Scots will have their own private head to head come lunch time on Saturday, and as the Liverpool players walk under the, "This is Anfield," sign, and line-up beside United in the tunnel, King Kenny will know full well that their home record is one to stand by. In the all time results of Liverpool vs. United at Anfield it stands 38 wins to Liverpool, 22 defeats and 18 Draws. </p>
<p>With this said and taking into account recent success, United should still be assumed favorites, even though playing away from home. But in this edition of the so-called North-West Derby I see a potential banana skin for the Red Devils, as defensive frailties could play out as an Achilles heal against the tricky attack play of Luis Suarez. Need I remind those United fans reading of the one known as " El Pistolero," cutting up your defense, megging Raphael, then evading Michael Carrick and Wes Brown, only to poke it through Edwin van der Sar's legs, to Dirk Kuyt who buried it in the net. Deadly skill, that if given the time and space will leave United seeing the gun-fighter shooting his pistols into the air. The corresponding fixture took place on March 6, of last year and ended 3-1 with a Dirk Kuyt hat-trick.</p>
<p>The history and the win record will all be forgotten when the two teams step out on the field letting the passionate atmosphere take hold. Both sides know what to expect, but with the added twist of new signings yet to participate in such a derby. First team coach of Liverpool, Steve Clarke, has insisted that preparations will be as usual even thought much of the Liverpool squad will be returning from International duty in South America only a day prior to the match.</p>
<p><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-f5522WrQQIY/TpKzc8gARkI/AAAAAAAAAWg/V3_yh7kTuSU/s1600/dirkkuytsecondgoal20110306_350x197.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-f5522WrQQIY/TpKzc8gARkI/AAAAAAAAAWg/V3_yh7kTuSU/s400/dirkkuytsecondgoal20110306_350x197.jpg" border="0" alt="" width="400" height="225" /></a></p>
<p>"Hopefully we'll have time on Friday to do a bit of team play and get them ready for the game, but it's a difficult situation. You just hope you get players coming back fit and well and you work on them mentally to make sure they're ready for such a big game," Clarke told Liverpoolfc.tv.</p>
<p>Touching on the Reds abroad, Luis Suarez continued his scoring form taking only three minutes to net in Uruguay's 4-2 win over Bolivia in Montevideo. </p>
<p>Stewart Downing got a half an hour runaround in England's 2-2 draw with Montenegro, securing their ticket to Poland and Ukraine for Euro 2012.</p>
<p>Dirk Kuyt went the full 90 for Holland in their 1-0 win over Moldova to secure top spot in Group E.</p>
<p>When the talent of Liverpool returns to Melwood in preparation for the mammoth clash with United, much shall be discussed on how to approach the match, and the Reds will surly be boosted by the knowledge that Nemanja Vidic will not be fit for the match as he is still out with a calf muscle strain. Injury worries for Liverpool come in the shape of Daniel Agger out with a rib injury, due back later this month not in time for this showdown. So expect to see Skrtel and Carragher anchoring the back line, seeing a possible rejuvenation in the shape of Glen Johnson. Suffering this season with a bum hamstring Johnson is due back on the 12th of October, just in time for United, but the question still remains on whether Kenny uses him instead of the ever- improving Martin Kelly. </p>
<p>My projected line-up (4-4-2):</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">Reina </p>
<p style="text-align: center;">Kelly Carragher Skrtel Enrique</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">Kuyt Lucas Gerrard Downing</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">Carroll Suarez</p>
<p>After Andy Carroll's goal against Everton it would be a mistake to leave the towering forward out, in which playing him hopefully adds fuel to the fire and a statement of, "Go on lad show us what your made of." With United possibly playing with the young center back pairing of Jones and Smalling or Evans, Carroll could prove a proper nuisance. With this said, Dirk Kuyt gets pushed out to the wing and is chosen over Jordan Henderson who you could expect to see come on as a substitute later in the game.</p>
<p>Charlie Adam is the one left feeling the pain of fellow countrymen William Wallace, as his position in the starting XI is sacrificed for Steven Gerrard. In a game of this magnitude you need players with Gerrard's experience, and after another week of R&R for the Liverpool captain expect to see him fit and ready to lead his squad out onto the Anfield pitch.</p>
<p>Liverpool vs. Manchester United Oct. 15, 7:45 ESPN 2<br /><br />If you want more check out http://spotkickjournalism.blogspot.com/ </p>
Nash Larson
2011-10-10T09:06:00Z
Ferguson angry with 'careless' United
Thomas Rooney
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Ferguson-angry-with-careless-United/688472959083278623.html
2011-10-06T03:26:00Z
2011-10-06T03:26:00Z
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">
<p>Sir Alex Ferguson has spoken of his disappointment with Manchester United’s performance during the 3-3 draw with Basel in the Champions League last night.</p>
<p>The Premier League champions led 2-0 early on, but let the Swiss side back into the game as the visitors scored three goals in 18 second-half minutes to go into the lead.</p>
<p>United then <a href="http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/europe/14982476.stm"><strong>required a last-gasp effort from Ashley Young</strong></a> to salvage a point from a game they were not only expected to win comfortably, but were cruising in at the break.</p>
<p>Young’s first ever Champions League goal didn’t overshadow the defensive frailties United showed at times though and Ferguson hopes the display can act as wake up call for the rest of the campaign.</p>
<p>The United boss said: “I thought there was a carelessness about us throughout the game. The attacking part of our game was very good at times and there was some good football, particularly in the first half.</p>
<p>"There was a carelessness that cost us, though, and Basel could have scored three goals in the first half. I suppose you could say it was a welcome to European football for some of them but we were lax for most of the game.”</p>
<p>Referring to the defensive issues in particular, the Scotsman continued: “We've not had a settled defence but there was still enough quality in the back four, and with Rio Ferdinand and Patrice Evra it was very experienced.</p>
<p>"We played too many players forward and by doing that there were so many gaps in midfield to the back four. If we had concentrated on the back four we might not have had the problems we had."</p>
<p>There is no doubt that Basel surprised Manchester United with their attacking ability and perhaps the Red Devils went into the contest a little bit more confident than they should have been.</p>
<p>Then, at the break, even if they won’t admit it, they probably thought it was job done. In fairness, a lot of people that were placing a <strong><a href="http://www.soccernews.com/soccer-betting/bet-in-play/">soccer bet in play</a> </strong>probably did. However, Basel exploited some defensive frailties and fair play to them for that.</p>
<p>United can take positives too though, namely their three goals on the night. England striker Danny Welbeck grabbed the first too and it was good for them to see Young produce a vital strike at the highest level.</p>
<p>To rescue a point from what was a potentially disastrous situation shows excellent spirit too. This United team will never give up and even though they would have expected three points, at least they didn’t lose.</p>
<p>It does mean they have drawn both games in the Champions League so far though and there is no doubt that they will be looking at the double header against SC Otelul Galati<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;"> in November as a much needed six points.</span></p>
<p>Before then though, they will get back to the defence of their Premier League title and Ferguson will be hoping for a more accomplished performance at home to newly promoted Norwich City.</p>
</span>
Thomas Rooney
2011-10-06T03:26:00Z
Celtic Lose to Hearts as Rangers go 10 Points Clear
Sandy Thin
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Celtic-Lose-to-Hearts-as-Rangers-go-10-Points-Clear/647002102382858695.html
2011-10-04T18:52:00Z
2011-10-04T18:52:00Z
<p>Celtic dropped to third place in the league as Hearts beat them 2-0 at Tynecastle on Sunday. Rangers had scraped a 1-0 victory over Hibs on Saturday which took them 10 points clear. It may not have been the most convincing victory of all time but come the end of the season all that matters are the points on the board and Rangers have won three titles in a row by stacking up the 1-0 victories while Celtic have lost or drawn games they really should have won.</p>
<p>It has been a very poor start to the season for the Bhoys and even if they win their game in hand a seven-point deficit in the Scottish Premier League is a hard thing to pull back, even in October. The season is obviously not over though, with three old firms left to play and the inevitability of Rangers slipping up against someone eventually, it is impossible to write off Celtic completely. Neil Lennon; however, will have some tough decisions to make. Following defeat to Hearts he pondered over possible solutions to their poor consistency, “Do I change the system? Do I change the personnel? We’re not finding consistency. We lost four games the whole of last season, we have lost three this season already.” One thing is for sure though, if the Glasgow teams form does not pick up over the next month or so, it may be the Celtic Board considering a change in personnel and he may be the one to suffer the consequences. During midweek, Celtic played their second Europa League Group Stage game, at home to Italian side Udinese, they took the lead early on thanks to a penalty from Ki Sung-Yeung but they were thwarted as another penalty was handed to the Italians in the 88<sup>th</sup> minute which allowed them to equalise.</p>
<p>Elsewhere in the league, Motherwell continued their fantastic run this season with a 3-1 win over Dundee Utd, which took them to second, a point ahead of Celtic having played a game more. I would love at this stage to say that there is every possibility that they will maintain this high standard through the season and push for a top two finish, separating or even beating the two Glasgow teams. However, in reality, it will be a shock to all those involved if, come January or February there isn’t a 10+ point gap between the second placed Old Firm team and Motherwell or whichever other team happens to be in third. Nevertheless, they have shown valiant effort over the first ten games of the season and should at least go some way to closing the gap between second and third.</p>
<p>In the other matches over the weekend, Inverness CT picked up three valuable points with a 2-1 win over St Mirren and high-flying St Johnstone beat Kilmarnock 2-1. There will be no SPL action this weekend as Europe takes an International Break, Scotland will play Liechtenstein on Saturday in what is a must-win game should they retain any hope of qualifying for Euro ’12.</p>
Sandy Thin
2011-10-04T18:52:00Z
Premier League Recap (October 1-2)
Adam Johnson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Premier-League-Recap-October-1-2/-681481342134497668.html
2011-10-03T22:52:00Z
2011-10-03T22:52:00Z
<p>Gameweek 7 was upon us and the teams would be throwing out every star player before they head off for another international break. There were plenty of talking points that would go down on Saturday and Sunday so let’s get to it.</p>
<p> <span style="text-decoration: underline;">Everton 0-2 Liverpool</span></p>
<p>The home team, Everton, came into this Merseyside derby in good form and a win was within reach. Liverpool, however, came in looking to avenge last season’s loss to Everton. The match was completely altered when Jack Rodwell was unfairly sent off for his challenge on Luis Suarez. Suarez was again fouled but this time in the box, penalty to Liverpool. Tim Howard saved Dirk Kuyt’s weak attempt and it would still be 0-0 at halftime. Andy Carroll changed that with his first goal in a Merseyside clash. Suarez was again involved, but this time with a late goal to seal the away points for the Reds.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Aston Villa 2-0 Wigan</span></p>
<p>Gabby Agbonlahor continued his great start to the season with the first goal of the game. Wigan can’t catch a break so far and Darren Bent ended their day with a second Villa goal to wrap up the three points.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Blackburn 0-4 Manchester City</span></p>
<p>All of the Carlos Tevez drama was put to rest for a couple of hours and the Manchester club could just play football. Sergio Aguero went off injured in the first half, but the man with the strongest name in the Premier League, Adam Johnson, got City’s first goal. Mario Balotelli looked great all afternoon and got himself a goal before Samir Nasri made it three. New signing, Stefan Savic, then got his first goal for the club to finish it at 4-0.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Manchester United 2-0 Norwich</span></p>
<p>After back to back draws against Stoke and Basel, United looked to get back to their winning ways against Norwich. Anderson and Danny Welbeck goals got them that win, but the performance was not very good at all.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Sunderland 2-2 West Brom</span></p>
<p>These two teams can’t quite figure out what they are at the moment so a draw seemed like a fair result. James Morrison and Shane Long made it 2-0 for West Brom but Niklas Bendtner and Ahmed Elmohamady rescued a point for Sunderland.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Wolves 1-2 Newcastle</span></p>
<p>Fourth place Newcastle continued their excellent start away at Wolves with a 2-1 win. Demba Ba scored again but Jonas Guttierez made it two with an awesome run and finish. Steven Fletcher pulled one back and Kevin Doyle should’ve tied it but the linesman ruled that the ball had gone out of play before it was crossed into Doyle’s path. Wolves got hosed in this one as a foul inside the box earlier in the match was simply given as a free kick outside the area.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Bolton 1-5 Chelsea</span></p>
<p>It seems like Bolton couldn’t have had a tougher start to the season. Their loan star from last year, Danny Sturridge, scored early on and Chelsea never looked back. Frank Lampard scored his first before Sturridge scored again and fair play to the young Englishman for not celebrating in front of the Bolton fans. Lampard scored again before the first half to make it 4-0. Boyata got one for Bolton but Frank Lampard got his hat trick and the game finished at an embarrassing 5-1 for Bolton.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Fulham 6-0 QPR</span></p>
<p>QPR got absolutely rocked in this one as Clint Dempsey, Danny Murphy, and Bobby Zamora scored while Andrew Johnson got a hat trick. This was Fulham’s first win of the season and what a way to get it.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Swansea 2-0 Stoke </span></p>
<p>Stoke has now lost both league matches on the back of their first two Europa League encounters. Scott Sinclair and Danny Graham were the two goals scorers as Brendan Rodgers’ Swansea put in another strong performance at home.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Tottenham 2-1 Arsenal</span></p>
<p>This North London derby was full of attacking football, controversy, fouls, and great goals, what else is new? Tottenham started the match extremely well but could not get the opening goal until Rafa van der Vaart controlled a diagonal ball and finished neatly between two Arsenal defenders. It may have been a handball but nonetheless, it was 1-0 at the break. Arsenal came right back and Aaron Ramsey leveled it in the 51<sup>st</sup> minute, finishing Alex Song’s cross. But it was Spurs and Kyle Walker’s day as he got the winner and the biggest goal of his career so far.</p>
<p>So the two Manchester teams stayed at the top and Chelsea remained close behind with Newcastle still in a Champions League place. Team of the week, however, is going to Fulham for their great display of finishing. Andy Johnson could get player of the week for his hat trick against Fulham but how about Frank Lampard for that award. A three-goal performance isn’t a bad way to momentarily silence the critics of the Chelsea legend, huh?</p>
Adam Johnson
2011-10-03T22:52:00Z
Liver n'Onions: Does derby day
Nash Larson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Liver-nOnions:-Does-derby-day/-288490232212348377.html
2011-10-03T18:46:00Z
2011-10-03T18:46:00Z
<p>In a footballing bender of a weekend I witnessed a total of 540 minutes, plus extra time of nerve gripping action, including three notable derby's, the high profile match's of PSG v. Lyon, and AC Milan vs. Juventus. Thrilling as those specified were, I cannot deny that the derby's on display took the center stage, non-more exciting than the prospect of the Merseyside derby. Staying up for a 1:30 am kick off on Friday mounts to nothing on the list of things I would do to watch this game. </p>
<p><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Assuming my usual chair, pencil behind the ear and coffee in hand, I gritted my teeth in suspense. However when the clock struck quarter to four, howI felt was akin to the excitement felt before Christmas, only to be let down by the gifts on display. The derby, in comparison to ones previously, lacked impotence and controversy. Watching the North London Derby on the following day only compounded my disappointment, making me question how I feel about the modern derby in general. With the likes of Gervinho, Coquelin, and Mertesacker starting in their first N. London derby for Arsenal, I ask the question are Derby matches a young man's game, or for the old geezers? A derby match is built off of a rivalry, usually containing frenetic pace, take-no-prisoner tackles and a general distain for the opposition. With an injection of young players, or new signings, the rivalry is lessened for the players are only feeling the rivalry tension, based off what they have been told or watched themselves. This is why you see a lot of young players getting sent off because they know what it means to win the game, yet they don't know how to approach it. Derby games are built off the history of the clubs', and the passion is heightened by the fans. Current football players aren't usually permanent enough at a club to really feel the passion of the Derby game willing to kiss any badge as long as the pay is good,so a derby games is just an excuse to slag off your fellow professionals and get stuck in, harder than usual. The billing of the Merseyside Derby, or the North London Derby imply a certain amount of intensity, that some of the derby -virgin players can quite cope with. Either Charlie Adam had a sub-par game, or he had built up the importance of the game, and how doing well in it would impress his manager, but that said he seemed to choke. The elder state-men have played in the atmosphere for years and usually know how to approach it. This is why I was surprised not to see Gerrard come on from the start, niggaling injury aside. A player of his stature knows the playing field, what's required, treating it just like any other game. This is something you might expect from a player new to the intense atmosphere, yet often the adverse is seen. With the older players you feel the history materializing on the pitch, which is not felt with a bucket of new faces playing in their first derby. So I ask this question, do you think that derby games are more entertaining with young, unfamiliar players looking to prove themselves, or with the experienced players who know the derby waters? </span></p>
<p class="separator"><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MqME1fL3NGI/TooCDKU6wvI/AAAAAAAAAU8/MpXN8LU4I3w/s320/jack_rodwell_was_sent_off_in_the_merseyside_derby_for_this.jpg" border="0" alt="" width="320" height="178" /></span><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I will admit that I am still uneasy over the current Reds, as their performance leaves me feeling unconvinced on the the new project that King Kenny has dished up. The 216th version of this city splitting clash didn't do much to change my stance, only getting into the game once the sending off of Jack Rodwell. A dismissal which was if I may a lucky one, catalyzed by a nothing tackle and a sprawling flop from Suarez. Ref Martin Atkinson got it horribly wrong, only succeeding in giving Liverpool a chance back into a game that they looked second best in up until that point. From the start Everton looked the more cohesive unit with both Sylvian Distin and Tim Cahill testing Reina in the Liverpool goal, as the Red's midfield of Adam and Lucas struggled to supply Carroll and Suarez up top. The dismissal killed Everton's expansive play forcing Cahill to slot into the wide left position leaving Louis Saha to forage for himself as the lone advanced player. Even with reduced numbers Everton still carved out a handful of chances, but it was Liverpool who came up the 2-0 winners. Dirk Kuyt endeared himself slightly to the Everton faithful, as his grass cutting penalty kick was saved by Howard, following Jagielka's tackle on Suarez in the box- deemed an illegal one by Atkinson. One of the shining lights in the match that uncharacteristically lacked some atmosphere was Andy Carroll's first goal of the 2011-12 season, latching onto the end of Craig Bellamy's Cross. With Suarez sealing the win on a fortunate rebound clearance from Distin, Liverpool take the spoils of Derby Glory, in a scrappy win, nothing more. As long as three points are there to be taken, I will take them and run, but a comfortably controlled win is what I desire.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Derby rating: 6.5</span></p>
<p class="separator"><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zUWMp36G_ek/TooCgBShM9I/AAAAAAAAAVE/P3KPDhmlQ38/s400/Tottenham-Hotspur-Arsenal-Kyle-Walker-Premier-League%252Bcropped.jpeg" border="0" alt="" width="400" height="201" /></span><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">The Sunday proceeding saw a comparably mammoth fixture with the North London Derby illuminating the eyes of London. Arsenal, though starting the season a bit shaky, I gather feel they have the edge over their closest rivals Tottenham. This fallacy was plain to see, with the power-shift between the two clubs apparent. The match announcer made the interesting point of if you where to making a best XI out of the starting lineups of the two teams, what Arsenal players would make it? Bacary Sagna and Robin Van Persie are shoo-ins, but besides them who else? Like the Merseyside derby this match lacked some atmosphere as I didn't feel much passion, also upset with the fact that the usually controversial Adebayor didn't get in to it with any of his former Arsenal teammates or fans. Both teams' defensive frailties emerged, creating a multitude of chances for each side, both with eight a piece come the whistle for the half. Tottenham were the only team to make the flurry of chances count, as Raphael Van der Vaart made sure to put on his boots with " This Machine Kills Arsenal Dreams," written on the side, as he took down a beautiful cross on the chest and in brilliant style hit it off the bounce past </span><span><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Szczesny</span></span><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> into the back corner. Aaron Ramsey was having a shocker in midfield until he leveled terms in the second, adding some spice to the simmering cauldron of White Heart Lane. As the game wound to its climax Gareth Bale looked like Seabiscuit on speed, galloping down the wing looking capable of making the difference, but the winner came from the most unlikely of specimens in right back Kyle Walker. Having studied Danny Rose's thunderous strike from a couple of years ago, he had a look, put his foot through it, and arrowed it past outstretched arms of the Arsenal keeper like a warm knife through butter. Certainly a good way to open your account for a club, in which after the match he told Sky Sports, </span><span><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">“I’ve just picked up the ball and hit it… Why not have a go?’' </span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Derby rating: 7</span></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9SFCNv8gMhk/TooCNDt3pyI/AAAAAAAAAVA/-aOwTj7ghcA/s1600/Fulham-Queens-Park-Rangers-Andy-Johnson-Premier%252BLeague%252Bcropped.jpeg"><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9SFCNv8gMhk/TooCNDt3pyI/AAAAAAAAAVA/-aOwTj7ghcA/s400/Fulham-Queens-Park-Rangers-Andy-Johnson-Premier%252BLeague%252Bcropped.jpeg" border="0" alt="" width="400" height="201" /><br /></a></span><span><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> </span></span></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><span><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">If Kyle walker learned to harness the power of Thors Hammer in his boot, Andy Johnson had been waxing his board, </span></span><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">looking like the silver surfer with his shiny bald head, and his slick runs past QPR's defense. One of the West London Derby's took action as Fulham played newly promoted Queens Park Rangers, and although spending wisely in the summer showed their scars, falling subject to a 6-0 thrashing. Fulham looked unstoppable, with Johnson notching a hat trick and Dempsey, Murphy ad Zamora grabbing the rest. QPR made Fulham look like a world superpower, complacent in defense and an attack of Jay Bothroyd, who made nil impact. With Fulham being that team you just can't hate, (QPR fans excluded), I was delighted to see them grab their first win of the season and to do it in such emphatic style made for a thrilling spectacle. I don't expect to see many similar shorelines at the cottage, but it was a delightful capper to a slightly disappointing Derby weekend in the English Premier League.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Derby rating: 8.5</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Check out more @ <a href="http://spotkickjournalism.blogspot.com/">spotkickjournalism.blogspot.com</a><br /></span></p>
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Nash Larson
2011-10-03T18:46:00Z
Returned from the Dead: The Good, The Bad and The Ugly....
Rick Fitzgerald
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Returned-from-the-Dead:--The-Good,-The-Bad-and-The-Ugly..../300050248470817160.html
2011-10-03T17:14:00Z
2011-10-03T17:14:00Z
<p>Ok, so I haven't been here for a bit but I promise you my reason is really good. Or, at least, sort of good. Recently I was trying to get onto a reality/elimination competition show and had made it to the second round of casting only to take a fall and crack some ribs! Thus ended my 15 minutes of fame. So, apologies for being absent for so long but now, as I ice my ribs and get back into the swing of things, I assure you we will get back into the nPower with a full head of steam.<br /><br />On to business....A lot has happened since I was here last so let's get right to it.<br /><br />THE GOOD: I know I said it before but I am really impressed with Southampton. Holding strong with 22 points (2 over second place 'boro), the Saints are still playing great ball scoring nearly 2.5 goals per match. Yea, I know 2.5 doesn't seem like a lot but hey, were talking football here, not the NFL. If I was assured that average per match I'd take it! It should also be noted that Southampton is doing so with the fewest amount of cards issued thus far.<br /><br />How about a nod to Barry Roche? Before you minimize your screen and Google him, I'll tell you who he is. Barry is the Irish goalkeeper for Morecambe who has allowed only nine goals, has four clean sheets and a whopping 60 saves from 11 matches. Not a bad start for the League Two player but at 29 I doubt he will ever go someplace where people will begin to recognize his name!<br /><br />Ipswich...For some time The Blues have been my whipping boy with their lack of defending, scoring, or, well, anything really positive. It's nice to see that the pressure of not wanting to end up in "THE UGLY" week after week has finally motivated them to get their collective heads together and make a run of it. After being permanent fixtures at the bottom of the table, Ipswich has managed to put some wins together and now find themselves on the right half of the table. Great job Blues. With talent like Chopra running about the pitch, there is no reason why they shouldn't stay here for the rest of the season. Oh ya, and I might mention that they are the only team on the top half with a negative GD (-2)? <br /><br />THE BAD: This is a team that should be in "THE UGLY," but I'm reserving those slots for our managers who have recently flown the coup. Millwall. Oh Millwall! What happened?? After a darn good showing against West Ham they have really failed to do anything memorable! How about no wins - except over Forest and let's be honest, who isn't beating them right now? Once upon a time Millwall was a dirty, gritty, bloody knuckles kind of team but recently it seems like the only wounds they are dishing are to themselves. I would hate to see them drop out of the championship and, as always, there is still plenty of time. But come on Lions!! I had you pegged as promotion contenders not demotion certainties! <br /><br />How about Nottingham Forest? Have the pressures of barely missing the last few promotions finally done the boys in? And now their leader has packed his bags and kicked some rocks. Things are looking quite grim at the City Ground, unless you're the visiting team that is. I would say that there is some light here but that is difficult. After beating Watford 1-0, the Trees have given up 8 goals in two matches. <br /><br />Finally, a shake of the head has to go to "winner" of the month, Gary Roberts. Seems that trouble follows you around, especially when you are the one causing all of it. Recently our pre-maddonna Port Vale footballer was suspended for having missed training. When he did finally did show, it was in a state that was deemed unfit and he was sent on his way. Feeling none of this, manager Micky Adams was quick to put him on the bench and announce that Gary has some work to do if he is to make it back into the starting 11. This is not Robert's first transgression and, if I know my footballers, it won't be his last.<br /><br />THE UGLY: Steve Mclaren. There, I said it. I've been waiting the whole blog to say it and you know that you've been waiting to get to THE UGLY so you could read it. Yes, he is our ugly this week. Question: What takes 111 days to sink? Answer: Nottingham Forest. Ok, not the funniest joke but true nonetheless. Stevie only helmed this ship for 111 days and in that time he managed to take the team from a top four contender to a bottom four bottom feeder (wave to Millwall everyone!) As usual, part of the blame has been placed on summer spending, or the lack thereof. How can you win matches when no one upstairs is willing to open their pocket books? After all, the ONLY way to win in this league is to buy every great player, right?(I'm looking at you Man City). While lack of spending definitely played its part, the other part could be played by the strained relationship between Stevie and Chairman Nigel Doughty. One begins to think that the two are connected in some way...hmmmmm...<br /><br />So who will be the next boss? Well that's a great question. If it were up to me I would put Roy Keane in the spot and tell him to copy whatever he did with the Black Cats a few years ago. Then I'd tell him if he quit like he did with them, I would fine him a whole heck of a lot of money! As always, many names are being floated about and the hope is that whoever takes the hot-seat can turn this ship around. No one wants to see Forest in League One right? Or is that just me...<br /><br />Keith Millen, don't run out of the room just yet because you my friend, are also in THE UGLY. You are perhaps uglier than Stevie! Keith recently stepped down as manager of the Bristol City after ensuring they were firmly planted at the bottom of the table. His last punch in the eye came when Blackpool showed up and laid the 5-0 smack down on he and the boys. Citing that expectations were not met (Duh), Keith opted to step down instead of taking his boot and grinding City into the pavement some more. So another vacancy has sprung up in the nPower and as stated above, the tongues will be all a flitter over who will be taking the lead. <br /><br />I heard that Steve Mclaren is available...<br /><br /><br />Until next week,<br /><br />Take care and be safe<br /><br /><br />(follow on Twitter @undefeatedarmy)<br /><br /><br /><br /></p>
Rick Fitzgerald
2011-10-03T17:14:00Z
Galatasaray drain 3 points from Ankara
Aydin Reyhan
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Galatasaray-drain-3-points-from-Ankara/997151238499665740.html
2011-10-03T03:13:00Z
2011-10-03T03:13:00Z
<p>Galatasaray drain 3 points from Ankara</p>
<p>The Istanbul giants went into the nation’s capital with one goal in mind- to come back home with all three points. The match was entertaining as there was back and forth action, but it was the away side that ended up celebrating.</p>
<p>The scoring began in the 12<sup>th</sup> minute when Selcuk Inan took a free kick and it as headed home by the defending team, resulting in an own goal to give Gala the 1-0 lead. Still on a high confidence raid from their opener, they added a bit of spice just 8 minutes later.</p>
<p>Engin Baytar passed the ball down to Inan, who then passed to Kazim Richards who rifled into the top side of the net to double Gala’s lead. It was simply a dream start for the Lions.</p>
<p>The first half would end with that score and in the second, Milan Baros would add a penalty kick to open his scoring for the season. Kazim’s goal was his first as well.</p>
<p>This was the first game of the season where Gala looked almost perfect. Defensively, they were simply brilliant, tackling and heading the ball away from their danger area. They were very disciplined, and they have coach Fatih Terim to thank.</p>
<p>Terim brought in a very important defensive minded reinforcement in Felipe Melo; world cup starter for Brazil over a year ago. He wears the number ten, has three goals, and is nicknamed “pittbull.” The reason for that is simple: he plays with bullish quality as he shows no fear on the field. He added a much needed brave approach to the team.</p>
<p>Kazim brought an energy he has never shown before. He usually just coasts around in the offensive side of the field but today, he ran back to assist his defense. His goal was spectacular, but his defense was also admirable. Fatih Terim made a true soccer player out of him within the short amount of time he’s been here.</p>
<p>Selcuk Inan is known as the playmaker of the side. He is very intelligent on the ball, but his free kicks need a lot of work. IN Trabzon, he would score goals at will. For Gala, the only goal he has scored thus far was against Real Madrid in a pre-season friendly over a month ago. His passes are accurate but he falls down to easily. He falls down, looks up at the ref, and gives a fake smile. He is too good of a player to try and pull a maneuver like that. If Gala want 3-0 victories more often, he needs to be on top of his game.</p>
<p>Melo is a good defensive player that could add goals here and there, but the creativity of Arda Turan is still missed as there is no player that can produce an individual flare that could potentially be a game changer. Turan has left so finding a replacement will be hard. Or, Gala will have to build around what they have.</p>
<p>Today’s 3-0 victory was impressive and well-deserved, but it is just one game. If they want to keep winning, they have to put on more clinics like they did today. </p>
Aydin Reyhan
2011-10-03T03:13:00Z
What Would José Do?
A.J. Nelson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/What-Would-José-Do/109347732559082697.html
2011-10-03T02:06:00Z
2011-10-03T02:06:00Z
<p>With Aitor Karanka at the helm these past few Champions League games due to José Mourinho’s suspension, it gave me a moment to ponder an all important question…What would José do?</p>
<p>Real Madrid was sloppy to start this week’s Champions League game against Ajax Amsterdam. The passes were slow and inaccurate, the defense looked shaky and they couldn’t retain possession for more than a few minutes. It begged the question, what would José do?! Karanka demonstrated as he paced the touch line, shouting instructions to the players. There were no cell phone instructions and José was in a darkened VIP box, so there were no secret hand signals. Karanka knew exactly what José would do and it worked. 24 minutes in and Real Madrid was scoring a perfect team goal. Since Karanka clearly understands José and executes his ideas with perfection, should other coaches think…what would José do?</p>
<p>Let’s start with André Villas-Boas, a José protégée. As a young coach, facing an aging team chosen by a wealthy Russian, it was clear the players needed a wakeup call after a slow start to the season. One has to wonder if he asked the question “what would José do”. Answer: “Hmm…I have several Spaniards on my team. What if while one of them is being questioned in Spanish, he says that some of his teammates are slow?” Fernando Torres claims his comments were mistranslated. Villas-Boas says the team will investigate, but the only thing that has happened is that the “slower” players in question started scoring. </p>
<p>On Tuesday, Carlos Tevez allegedly refused to play for Manchester City in a Champions League game. He claims he told Mancini that he wasn’t feeling well. This flu naturally started after he was left on the bench to start the game. Mancini isn’t a José protégée, but should he ask “what would José do”. Answer: Suspend Tevez while you smile and be coy. The fans, owners and players will stand by you. So far so good for Mancini!</p>
<p>Steve Bruce is also facing a dilemma. Titus Bramble was arrested early Wednesday morning for attempted sexual assault and possession of a Class A substance. Bramble was previously involved in a rape case along with his brother (who was eventually convicted). He was stupid enough to act with a witness (the taxi driver questioned Bramble’s behavior and drove to the police station), plus he was carrying an illegal substance. All that and he was supposed to be at practice in a few hours. What would José do? Answer: Send him packing!</p>
<p>José himself is facing his own situation. Lass Diarra is under investigation in a tax fraud probe related to some of his transfer fees. He said on his twitter account that he will “continue to quietly devote myself to my profession and Real Madrid”. He also stated “I have no doubt about the ability of the justice system of my country to establish my innocence”. What did José do for a player who is obviously struggling with a personal issue but continues to work hard? Answer: Start him on Sunday against Espanyol. Lass had been pulled early the other week in favor of Mesut Özil, but the boss gave him another chance (this time alongside Özil) as well as a boost of support. Lass didn’t let him down and worked hard throughout the game.</p>
<p>Love him or hate him, José is a character and I, for one, would love to be able to ask him – what would you do?<br /><br /><em>A.J. Nelson can be found on Twitter @FootieObsessed</em></p>
A.J. Nelson
2011-10-03T02:06:00Z
Chelsea Opposition Scout Report: Bolton Wanderers
Lamin Oo
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Chelsea-Opposition-Scout-Report:-Bolton-Wanderers/669328349072031880.html
2011-10-01T14:51:00Z
2011-10-01T14:51:00Z
<img style="margin: 5px; float: left;" src="/images/blog/01pic1.jpg" alt="" width="75" height="50" />This Sunday, Chelsea will play bottom-of-the-league Bolton Wanderers at the Reebok stadium. Owen Coyle's side are not in great form -- losing the last five league games. They have often found themselves falling behind at the half-time whistle and they have been especially vulnerable right after the re-start. Their main goal threat (surprise, surprise!) comes from set-piece situations and high crosses. Here is my opposition scout report.<br /><br /><strong><em style="background-color: yellow;">Current Form...<br /><br /><img style="margin: 5px auto; display: block;" src="/images/blog/Bolton Last Five League Results.jpg" alt="" /><br /></em></strong>Bolton are in a really bad run of form. Since beating newly promoted Queens Park Rangers 4-0 on the opening day of the season, Bolton has not gotten a single point from the five league games that followed. After conceding 16 goals and only scoring 8, they are now stationed at the bottom of the Premier League table.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><a style="text-decoration: none; color: #174a82;" href="http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/963205/more-bad-news-for-bolton%27s-stuart-holden?cc=5901">The latest injury set back for the American midfielder Stuart Holden</a><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>and<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><a style="text-decoration: none; color: #174a82;" href="http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/960293/bolton-boss-owen-coyle-expects-arsenal-to-return-for-gary-cahill?cc=5901">the constant transfer speculations surrounding defender Gary Cahill</a><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>are making manager Owen Coyle's job even harder.<br /><br />
<div>To be fair to the Trotters, they did have to face some tough oppositions -- playing against the likes of Manchester City, Liverpool, Manchester United and Arsenal -- in those fixtures. A visit from Chelsea will probably not help their cause. However, the Reebok faithfuls may soon find some relief after this game, with matches against Wigan, Sunderland, Swansea, Stoke and West Brom in the horizon.<br /><br /><strong><em style="background-color: yellow;">Last Time Out...<br /><br /><img style="margin: 5px auto; display: block;" src="/images/blog/Starting XI vs Arsenal.jpg" alt="" /><br /></em></strong>When you think of Owen Coyle's Bolton, you often envision<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><a style="text-decoration: none; color: #174a82;" href="http://carefreechronicles.blogspot.com/2011/06/sturr-ing-pot.html">a classic 4-4-2 with a strong center forward like Kevin Davies leading the attack alongside a more skillful second striker</a>. It has worked magic for them last season. But after four straight league defeats, Coyle ditched the 4-4-2 and the reliable Kevin Davies for a 4-5-1 led by David Ngog against Arsenal last week. It did work out... to a certain extent.<br /><br /><img style="margin: 5px auto; display: block;" src="/images/blog/First Half Shots Conceded vs Second Half Against Arsenal.jpg" alt="" width="486" height="289" /><br />
<div>4-5-1 is, conceptually, a very defensive formation with a packed midfield. Bolton accomplish their goal of keeping a clean sheet at least in the first half -- which, in and of itself, is an improvement from previous games (more on that later). Not only that, the Trotters conceded zero shots on goal in the first half and limited most of Arsenal's shooting chances to come from outside the 18 yard box. Arsenal took a total of 27 shots and 20 of them came in the second half.<br /><br />But the game, as we know it, does not end at half time. Robin Van Persie scored 40 seconds after the second half kick off and it was all down hill for the travelling team. At the 55th minute, Wheater was sent off for a foul on Theo Walcott and there was no recovery for Bolton.</div>
<div>For this weekend, Gary has recovered from his illness and will most likely step into the central defensive role left by the suspended Wheater. Coyle might also revert back to 4-4-2 with Ngog partnering Davies up front. Their top goal scorer Ivan Klasnic is still serving his suspension and Gael Kakuta, on-loan from Chelsea, will not be eligible for this game.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> <br /></span></div>
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<strong><em style="background-color: yellow;">First Half Woes...<br /><br /><img style="margin: 5px auto; display: block;" src="/images/blog/Half Time Scores.jpg" alt="" /><br /></em></strong>As I mentioned above, being able to go into half-time with a 0-0 scoreline against Arsenal was an improvement from Bolton's point of view. In all four league games prior to that, they were behind their opponents at the half-time whistle. Three-goal deficit against United and two-goal deficit against Norwhich, especially, left Bolton with a mountain to climb in the second half. <br /><br />
<div>Plus, as even those who have never heard of Sigmund Freud know, being behind at half time put a team at a disadvantage psychologically. It puts a team in a funk that takes time to recover from. That might be the reason why the Wanderers are also most vulnerable in the 15 minutes after the half-time restart. They conceded the highest number of goals, 5, in the 46-60 minute time frame.</div>
<div>Chelsea will need to take advantage of Bolton's slow start and try to take the lead at half-time. It will not be easy task since, as we saw against Arsenal, Owen Coyle has tried to tightened Bolton's defense. Additionally, Chelsea are also slow starters like Bolton. So far in the league this season, the Blues have scored only four goals in the first half, while they found the back of the net eight times in the second half. It shouldn't be a surprise if this game displays little action in the first half only to become more open and explosive after the break.</div>
<br /><strong><em style="background-color: yellow;">Goal Threat...<br /><br /><img style="margin: 5px auto; display: block;" src="/images/blog/Davies Goal Vs Man City.jpg" alt="" width="504" height="281" /><br /></em></strong>
<div>Combine Petrov's crossing ability with the aerial threat of Kevin Davies and Gary Cahill and you have a solid formula to get goals. It is what makes them so threatening from set-piece situations. Of course, saying that Bolton are dangerous from set pieces is stating the obvious. Some of you are thinking, "While he's at it, he might as well tell us that Mario Balotelli is a spoiled brat or that Carlos Tevez is a mercenary". </div>
<div><br />But pointing out Bolton's goal threats from set pieces, I think, is relevant because<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><a style="text-decoration: none; color: #174a82;" href="http://carefreechronicles.blogspot.com/2011/09/pointing-fingers-marking-mess-against.html">Chelsea have had a hard time defending corners and free kicks this season</a>. Manchester United's Young-to-Smalling goal and Swansea's Gower-to-Williams goal are the glaring examples of Chelsea's weakness. If Bolton do find the back of the net against Chelsea, it will most likely be from a set-piece situation or from high crosses into the box in open play.</div>
<br /><strong><em style="background-color: yellow;">What Needs To Be Done...<br /><br /></em></strong>In order to claim victory, Chelsea will need to start strong and take advantage of Bolton's slow start. We must boss the game with early possession and finish the chances that are created. If Villas-Boas has learned anything from the mid-week Champions League game against Valencia, he will not put Juan Mata, who is offensively great but defensively irresponsible, in front of Jose Bosingwa on Chelsea's right. Especially with the threat of Martin Petrov down Bolton's left, Chelsea will need an attacker who can track back on Chelsea's right. And finally, Chelsea must, by one way or the other, learn to deal with Bolton's goal threat from set pieces and high crosses. It will require both great defensive organization and excellent awareness from goal keeper Petr Cech who must decide when to or not to come out for the long balls.<em><br /><br />Carefree, wherever you may be...</em>
<p>You can follow me on twitter <a href="http://www.twitter.com/carefreechronic">@CareFreeChronic</a>.</p>
You can read my other posts on <a href="http://www.carefreechronicles.blogspot.com/">my blog</a> or at <a href="http://bluetinted.com/">BlueTinted.com</a>.
Lamin Oo
2011-10-01T14:51:00Z
Born, Not Manufactured in Norway
James W. Hollis
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Born,-Not-Manufactured-in-Norway/378628578132733702.html
2011-09-30T05:44:00Z
2011-09-30T05:44:00Z
<p>After a mildly disappointing result at Manchester City, the Merseyside Derby looms on the horizon. I say that the result against City was mildly disappointing because they were expected to beat us. What I didn’t expect was the emergence of City’s biggest summer transfer: Howard Webb, from Manchester United. I wasn’t aware that he had stopped being Alex Ferguson’s towel boy. Regardless, Saturday proved that he was willing to do whatever it took to unlock Everton’s (admittedly) defensive-minded formation. Quick yellow cards to Jack Rodwell (for a clean challenge on Silva) and Neville (still don’t know what he did, Silva dove) foiled our plan of making City’s life in midfield difficult. But whatever, that game is behind us.</p>
<p>In front of us are our fiercest rivals, the team that every Evertonian is taught to loathe. In terms of Premier League form, the RS have won three out of the first six matches this year. However, the beginning of this season has rubbed the sheen off of ‘King Kenny’ to some degree, as the RS picked up consecutive losses to Stoke and Spurs. Regardless, the RS will be coming into this match with confidence because they won the Champions League in 2005. They’ll also be hoping to see <a href="http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/uknews/law-and-order/4028642/Steven-Gerrard-charged-with-assault-after-row-in-which-DJ-is-glassed.html">their favorite alleged DJ boxer</a> get more of a run-out after short appearances against Brighton and Wolves. Oh yeah, and the RS’s avid <a href="http://www.guardian.co.uk/football/2007/feb/19/newsstory.sport3">teammate-golfer</a> has returned from his Roberto Mancini-imposed exile in Cardiff.</p>
<p>That’s enough of thinking about them, on to the Pride of Merseyside. Numerous Evertonians were disappointed with the negative tactics against Manchester City. In some quarters, Everton was being called the dirtiest team in the Premier League. Honestly, that’s not an epithet that I have a problem with. There’s a difference between being dirty because you’re undisciplined and being<em> called</em> dirty because you play a combative style in the midfield. This combative style and the prospect of using it against the RS is making me giddy as I write this. Honestly, I didn’t think that the strategy last weekend was a mistake. If we tried to play football at the City of Etihad Stadium, we’d have gotten blown off the pitch à la Tottenham five-to-one-spur. I think we would have done fine had Howard Webb not decided to try to get his baldy head on a <a href="http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/teams/manchester-city/5857213/Manchester-City-taunt-Manchester-United-with-Carlos-Tevez-welcome-poster.html">‘Welcome to Manchester’</a> sign.</p>
<p> </p>
<img src="/images/players/cahill derby.jpg" alt="" />
<p>Saturday, we’ll see more impetus going forward even if we’ll still be running a 4-5-1. We’ll want to put pressure on Charlie Adam because he’s a yellow card magnet and tends to give the ball away in bad positions. Also, we will target the RS’s questionable centerback pairing: Carragher has been showing his age recently and I think he’ll struggle to stay on the field this match. Everton has been fairly solid defensively thus far, which marks a change from the beginnings of the past three seasons. Still, I’m worried about dealing with the RS on the counter, as they’ve added some players with legitimate pace. Tony Hibbert (or whoever plays at right back) will be key if we are to win. Also, though I’m happy to see that <a href="http://soccernet.espn.go.com/player/_/id/11189/dirk-kuyt?cc=5901">the man with the ruined face</a> has not figured into Dalglish’s plans much this season; he’s always a threat in the Derby.</p>
<p>Like most Evertonians, I love and hate the Derby in equal measure. We could win and be able to grin derisively at the kopites until the winter. At the same time, we could be forced to bear the shame of letting <em>that team</em> defeat us at Goodison Park.</p>
<p><strong><br />Predictions:<br /><br /></strong><strong>Everton’s XI to start:</strong> Timmy H., Distin, Jags, Bainsey, Hibbo, Fellaini, Rodwell, Ossie, Coleman, Cahill, Saha (subs will be Drenthe, Vellios and Heitinga)</p>
<p><strong>Red Cards:</strong> Since this fixture features the greatest number of red cards of any since the beginning of the Premier League, I’m expecting some fireworks. As noted earlier, I could see Carragher picking up a red. He’s had it coming for a while, especially after that performance <a href="http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/teams/liverpool/7173697/Liverpool-1-Everton-0-match-report.html">in the 2010 Derby at that place across Stanley Park.</a> If it gets feisty, Charlie Adam could easily go off with a second yellow for a late challenge. On our side, Fellaini is always primed for a red card in the Derby.</p>
<p><strong>Result:</strong> Everton 2-1 The RS</p>
<p>Goals from Timmy ‘Post-WWII Derby Legend’ Cahill and Leighton Baines. Suarez will score for them.</p>
<p><strong>For your pre-match viewing pleasure:</strong></p>
<p><strong>Lee Carsley’s Derby:</strong> <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2cNt76G4mIQ">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2cNt76G4mIQ</a></p>
<p><strong>Duncan Ferguson’s first goal for Everton:</strong> <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-rcXdZpdJ6I">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-rcXdZpdJ6I</a></p>
<p><strong>Dan Gosling:</strong> <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ghelXeWS5JY">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ghelXeWS5JY</a> (look how short Bainsey’s hair is)</p>
<p><strong>A new take on a classic:</strong> <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PYv7qATJ8Co">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PYv7qATJ8Co</a> (stuck in my head now)</p>
<p><br />Let’s have it. Up the Toffees!</p>
<p>Follow me on twitter: www.twitter.com/jwhollis</p>
<p> </p>
James W. Hollis
2011-09-30T05:44:00Z
Premier League Recap (September 24-26)
Adam Johnson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Premier-League-Recap-September-24-26/393072697771738461.html
2011-09-27T18:17:00Z
2011-09-27T18:17:00Z
<p>It was always going to be tough to follow last weekend’s wild slate of matches and this weekend, it must be said, was a bit of a letdown. However, there were still big stories and games so here is how they shook out.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Manchester City 2-0 Everton</span></p>
<p>Back home after their first draw of the season at Fulham, Man City had a chance to temporarily go to the top of the league with a win over Everton. That would not be easy as the blue side of Liverpool came in on good form and always play City well. The first half ended goalless and Roberto Mancini inserted Mario Balotelli for Edin Dzeko and he got the opener on a deflected shot that Tim Howard really had no chance at saving. The home side controlled the second half and added a second goal through another sub, James Milner. This was a good win to gain confidence going into their Champions League clash with Bayern Munich this week.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Arsenal 3-0 Bolton</span></p>
<p>Arsenal just needed something good to happen to them in the league and on Saturday their captain was ready to put the team on his back. Robin van Persie scored the first goal and looked up for it all afternoon. RVP scored again but the second one was a testament to Theo Walcott’s speed. Alex Song made it 3-0 for the three points on a well struck shot. </p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Chelsea 4-1 Swansea</span></p>
<p>This was another eventful match for Fernando Torres: first, he gave Chelsea the lead after coolly bringing down and finishing a Juan Mata pass, and then he was sent off for a super late challenge. I’ll give him credit for trying to win the ball and be involved more this year, but that doesn’t make him a ball winning defensive midfielder. Chelsea seemed undeterred as Ramires scored either side of the sending off to make it 3-0. Ashley Williams would pull one back for Swansea, but Didier Drogba came on and scored to keep the difference at three. Maybe more notable, Frank Lampard did not get in this game at all.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Liverpool 2-1 Wolves</span></p>
<p>Liverpool returned home after their game to forget at Spurs last week. Wolves looked good to start but Charlie Adam gave the home side the advantage after a wicked deflection put it into the net. Luis Suarez was incredible again and his goal doubled the lead and left jaws dropping around the Kop. Steven Fletcher came on at halftime for Wolves and made an immediate impact, scoring early in the second half to make it 2-1. It would stay that way as Steven Gerrard made his Premier League return, coming on for Suarez for the last ten minutes.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Newcastle 3-1 Blackburn </span></p>
<p>Allan Pardew’s Newcastle is starting to look really solid. Demba Ba scored twice before Junior Hoillett pulled one back for Blackburn. Ba would complete his hat trick and then Blackburn were reduced to ten men as Martin Olsson received his second yellow. Don’t look now but Newcastle is in fourth.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">West Brom 0-0 Fulham</span></p>
<p>Both clubs registered a point in a decent match that saw both teams miss plenty of chances.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Wigan 1-2 Tottenham</span></p>
<p>These are the type of games where Tottenham just needs to get the job done. They did just that as last season’s two best players, Rafa van der Vaart and Gareth Bale, got the goals. Wigan improved and cut the lead in half but Steve Gohuri was sent off and that ended any chance of a comeback.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Stoke 1-1 Manchester United</span></p>
<p>Anyone who predicted anything but a United win probably predicted a 1-1 draw. Well that is exactly what happened. Wayne Rooney was out, but the on fire Nani made up for his absence with a brilliant goal to give the champions the lead. Stoke came out swinging in this game and went flying right back at the Red Devils. David de Gea had to save his new club on a couple of Jon Walters occasions. Stoke leveled on a Peter Crouch header in the second half. To be fair to United, they did have a couple of penalty claims that could have been called. A draw was deserved though and it would level Manchester United with their neighbors at the top of the table after this really entertaining match.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">QPR 1-1 Aston Villa </span></p>
<p>QPR and Villa isn’t the match-up someone would anticipate on a one-match Sunday but nevertheless these clubs deserve attention too. Alex McCleish has his new club playing well but they were tested on this day by the feisty home side. QPR were unlucky to have a soft penalty called against them that Barry Bannan converted for the lead. Late in the match, Armond Traore, who was on a yellow from that penalty, was sent off for a late challenge on Marc Albrighton. QPR kept fighting and got a draw thanks to a Richard Dunne own goal.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Norwich 2-1 Sunderland</span></p>
<p>The Monday game wasn’t a classic but a big home win for Norwich over the enigmatic Sunderland. Norwich went 1-0 up before the break thanks to Leon Barnett and doubled that lead on a Steve Morrison strike early in the second half. The home fans were eager for their first Premier League win and they got it despite Kieran Richardson pulling one back late for the Black Cats.</p>
<p>There were red cards and misses a plenty but the Manchester clubs once again share the lead at the top of the table. My team of the week is going to the club that is right behind United and City, Chelsea. Their all-around performance has them now just three points behind the co-leaders. Player of the week is going to Juan Mata for the influence and passing range he has brought to Chelsea.</p>
Adam Johnson
2011-09-27T18:17:00Z
Chelsea Opposition Scout Report: Valencia
Lamin Oo
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Chelsea-Opposition-Scout-Report:-Valencia/-489821351747734601.html
2011-09-27T17:01:00Z
2011-09-27T17:01:00Z
Chelsea will travel to Spain for their second group game of the Champions League game against Valencia, the former club of Chelsea’s new midfield genius Juan Mata. Despite their lack of financial power and the apparent financial problems, Valencia has managed to finish 3rd behind the two Spanish giants – Barcelona and Real Madrid – in the two previous La Liga seasons. They have, yet again, made a decent start in this current season. Their manager Unai Emery likes to change tactics and formation frequently, adding a sense of unpredictability to his side. Valencia's attack, led by their on form striker Roberto Soldado, will be handful to the leaky Chelsea defense. Dominating the midfield and possession, though, may very well be the key to beat the Spanish side at their home ground. Here's my opposition scout report.<br /><br /><strong><em style="background-color: yellow;">Current Form<br /></em></strong><span class="Apple-converted-space"> <br /><img style="margin: 5px auto; display: block;" src="/images/blog/Last 5 League Results.jpg" alt="" /><br /></span>Valencia started their season strongly – winning the first three league games – and sat at the top of the La Liga table. However, the well-earned 2-2 draw against Barcelona at home and the 1-0 defeat to Sevilla in the last league game saw them slipped to the 7<sup>th</sup> position, though they are only 2 points behind the league leader Betis.<br /><br />
<div>In these five game, Valencia, also known as <em>Los Che</em>, have scored 8 – one player netting 5 (more on that later) – and conceded 6, while keeping 2 clean sheets. Perhaps an important statistics to note for a visiting team like Chelsea is that the Spanish side have scored in every home game and they are still undefeated at the Mestalla.<br /><br />
<div>In their first Champions League group game, Valencia drew 0-0 with the Belgium side KRC Genk at the Cristal Arena. The Spanish team were the better side with higher ball possession (69%) and more goal attempts, 22, to Genk’s 7. They came closest to scoring the winning goal with the defender Rami’s outrageous overhead kick which struck the crossbar. With their high hopes of going through to the knock out stages of the competition, Valencia will definitely try to get all three points at home against Chelsea.</div>
</div>
<br /><strong><em><span style="background-color: yellow; line-height: 14px;">Let There Be Rotation!<br /><br /><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="/images/blog/Valencia's Most Used Starting Eleven.jpg" alt="" /><br /></span></em></strong>
<div>If Valencia manager Unai Emery were to author a football bible, he would undoubtedly begin with the line, “Let there be rotation!” So far this season, the goalkeeper Guaita and defender Rami were the only constant figures in Valencia’s starting XI in the league. The rest, including their top goal scorer Soldado and their most influential midfielder Banega, have not been safe from rotation.<br /><br /></div>
<div>In fact, according to <a href="http://bleacherreport.com/articles/861591-5-reasons-why-valencias-unai-emery-is-one-of-the-worlds-best-managers">this article from Bleacher Report</a>, the Valencia manager has never picked the same starting XI on two consecutive occasions in the past 75 matches! Even the likes of Juan Mata, David Silva and David Villa, during their time at <em>Los Che</em>, were subjected to Emery’s rotation system.<br /><br /></div>
<div>The key, of course, is that Emery, who <a href="http://www.sportinglife.com/football/news/story_get.cgi?STORY_NAME=soccer/11/09/24/SOCCER_Chelsea_Champions.html&BID=165">Villas-Boas calls "a friend of mine"</a>, has been able to maintain the quality of his team despite the constant change of personals from game to game. The fact that Valencia has finished 3<sup>rd </sup>in La Liga, behind Barcelona and Real Madrid, in the last two campaigns, is a testament to the success of Emery’s rotation system.</div>
<br /><img style="margin: 5px auto; display: block;" src="/images/blog/1471967_w2.jpg" alt="" width="447" height="251" /><br />
<div>Additionally, Emery is the type of manager who likes to change tactics and formations according the need of a particular match. 4-2-3-1 is said to be their default formation, but it is not unusual for Valencia to line up in <a href="http://www.zonalmarking.net/2010/09/29/valencia-0-1-manchester-united-javier-hernandez-tctics/">4-5-1</a>, <a href="http://www.zonalmarking.net/2010/09/29/valencia-0-1-manchester-united-javier-hernandez-tctics/">4-4-2</a>, <a href="http://www.zonalmarking.net/2010/11/21/villarreal-1-1-valencia-emerys-three-man-defences-copes-with-two-strikers-but-not-three/">3-4-3</a> or <a href="http://www.zonalmarking.net/2011/04/10/valencia-5-0-villarreal-tactics/">5-2-3</a>.<br /><br />In their last home game against Barcelona, Valencia started with two left backs, one in the traditional fullback position and another in the more forward winger position, to deal with the attacking threat of Danni Alves. It worked out beautifully. Valencia were not only able to deal with Alves’s threat but were also able to effectively exploit the space behind the forward running Barcelona right back. <a href="http://carefreechronicles.blogspot.com/2011/09/valencias-threat-from-left.html">The left-back-turned-left-wingerJeremy Mathieu’s explosive runs down the flank and his quality crosses createdthree clear cut goal-scoring opportunities – two of which turned into goals</a>. Will they try the same double-fullback tactics against Bosingwa? Or will they opt for 5-2-3 with an extra defender to track the influential Juan Mata? Who knows?<br /><br />At any rate, it must be stressed that <em>Los Che </em>can afford to rotate players and change formations only because they have the players who are versatile and flexible. They have consistently produced or pursued players who can play in more than one position. All in all, their rotation system and constant tactical changes always keep opposition guessing who will start and what formation Valencia will adopt (and it makes the life of an "opposition scout" like me endlessly harder).<br /><br /><strong><em style="background-color: yellow;">The On Form Striker<br /><br /></em></strong><img style="margin: 5px auto; display: block;" src="/images/blog/Soldado08.jpg" alt="" width="386" height="249" /><br />
<div>Having just written about the unpredictability of Valencia’s staring line up, one player who, I think, will definitely start against Chelsea is Roberto Soldado, the team’s current top goal scorer with five goals in five league games. Since Valencia have notched a total of eight goals this season, Soldado is responsible for 62.5% of all goals scored by the team.</div>
<div>Within the Valencia squad, Soldado also has the highest Goal Attempts (26) and Shots On Goal (12) – almost doubled that of Jonas who is second in these rankings with 14 GA and 6 SOG. Clearly, the Spanish striker is the most dangerous player in the team. He is also the type of player who is capable of making smart runs behind the defenders. Come Wednesday, he will certainly look to exploit Chelsea’s high defensive line.</div>
The good news for Villas-Boas’s Chelsea is that Soldado’s five goals came in the three opening games of the season. He has now failed to find the net in the last three games – against Genk, Barcelona and Sevilla. To be fair to the Valencia striker, he did have some chances against Genk and Barcelona and he only came on as a substitute against Sevilla at the 71<sup>st</sup> minute of the game. Having gotten the rest in that game, he will be ready and raring to go against Chelsea.<br /><br /><strong><em style="background-color: yellow;">Overloading The Midfield And Dominating Possession</em></strong><br /><br /><img style="margin: 5px auto; display: block;" src="/images/blog/Possession and SOG.jpg" alt="" /><br />
<div>I believe that Valencia will definitely find the back of the net in this fixture. That means Chelsea will have to score one more than their Spanish opponent to gain maximum six points after two games. In order to do that, it may be wise to look at Barcelona's second half performance against <em>Los Che </em>in their 2-2 draw.</div>
<div>Pep Guardiola's side were trailing 2-1 to Valencia at half time. According to Michael Cox of Zonal Marking, Barcelona got back into the game in the second half <a href="http://www.zonalmarking.net/2011/09/22/valencia-2-2-guardiola-emery-gets-the-better-of-guardiola-early-on-but-barca-fight-back/">by overloading the midfield and dominating possession</a>. Barca's formation shifted to a 3-4-3, with Busquets, Xavi, Thiago and Fabregas controlling the midfield and Messi, playing as a false nine, dropping deep to pick up the ball. In the end, Barcelona equalized and could have gone on to win the game.</div>
<div>I am not, however, suggesting that Chelsea should go out and play a 3-4-3 formation. The take away from Barcelona's second half performance is the need to control the midfield and to dominate possession in order to be effective against Valencia. Juan Mata, as he has already been in several occasions this season, will be the key to both maintaining possession and unleashing Chelsea's attack with his clever passes.</div>
<br /><strong><em></em></strong><strong><em style="background-color: yellow;">Video Highlights<br /></em></strong><br class="Apple-interchange-newline" />
<div><a href="http://www.dailymotion.com/video/xl8bli_valencia-v-barcelona_sport"><strong>Valencia 2 - 2 Barcelona</strong></a></div>
<div><a href="http://www.dailymotion.com/video/xl2qtk_krc-genk-v-valencia_sport#from=embed"><strong>KRC Genk 0 - 0 Valencia</strong></a></div>
<div><strong><a href="http://www.dailymotion.com/video/xl0tjn_valencia-1-atletico-de-madrid-0_sport">Valencia 1 - 0 Atletico Madrid</a></strong><em><strong><br /><br /></strong>Carefree, wherever you may be...</em>
<p>You can follow me on twitter <a href="http://www.twitter.com/carefreechronic">@CareFreeChronic</a>.</p>
<p>You can read my other posts on <a href="http://www.carefreechronicles.blogspot.com/">my blog</a> or at <a href="http://bluetinted.com/">BlueTinted.com</a>.</p>
</div>
</div>
Lamin Oo
2011-09-27T17:01:00Z
Liver n'Onions: The Curse Of The #9 Shirt
Nash Larson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Liver-nOnions:-The-Curse-Of-The-9-Shirt/-173081552382107391.html
2011-09-27T00:07:00Z
2011-09-27T00:07:00Z
<p>What seems to be the trouble with the number 9 shirt at Liverpool… A hex bestowed upon it since the departure of Fernando Torres perhaps? This edition of Liver n' Onions will tickle the superstition inside of you, with the current occupant of Andy Carroll seeming to be following suit, in the suit vacated by Torres.</p>
<p class="separator"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iz4nwO1sGoQ/ToETQ0zK_iI/AAAAAAAAATw/qMSL98Eg3sg/s1600/Andy-Carroll-2011.jpg-1.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iz4nwO1sGoQ/ToETQ0zK_iI/AAAAAAAAATw/qMSL98Eg3sg/s320/Andy-Carroll-2011.jpg-1.jpg" border="0" alt="" width="320" height="213" /></a></p>
<p>The fanfare of Torres' arrival on Merseyside was and uproar that was thoroughly justified in the performances executed by the great Spaniard, notching goals like they were going out of style. In his first few seasons for the Reds he warranted mention in the conversation of best current players. Since the 2008-09 season in which he was shortlisted for the FIFA world player of the year, arriving in third behind only Ronaldo and Messi, he has faltered. A lot of his later failings at Liverpool were due to having constant issues with fitness. Under Roy Hodgson the struggling striker seemed to be on his last straw, fed up with himself and his teams performances. This was the catalyst to his 50 million pound sale to Chelsea, in which he failed to run away from his problems. The mojo had left him, and he was floundering to make an impact until recently, showing promise in Chelsea's last couple matches looking to have re-gained his sharpness of yesteryears. This is more than could be said of Liverpool's new number 9, who's still wallowing in the mire. The comparisons between Andy Carroll and Torres are apparent to see, going beyond their hefty price tags and their roles in the Liverpool squad, it's that they are both lacking form. </p>
<p class="separator"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-i1iFZhmkXkM/ToETqA8D50I/AAAAAAAAAT0/VAXNNVVtJEk/s1600/fernando_torres-1.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-i1iFZhmkXkM/ToETqA8D50I/AAAAAAAAAT0/VAXNNVVtJEk/s320/fernando_torres-1.jpg" border="0" alt="" width="320" height="240" /></a></p>
<p>Andy Carroll has made six appearances for Liverpool this season, has scored zero goals, and hasn't looked fit, starting most games from the bench. Carroll did start this weekend in their 2- 1 win over Wolves, and actually looked capable of causing perspiration on the brow of Goalkeeper Hennessey. Showing glimpses of why he was bought for 35 million at the weekend suggests a possible turn of form, similar to the situation that Torres is experiencing. Carroll was bought to replace Torres at Liverpool and add depth to a thin front line, but all the Scousers have received as of yet is another frustrated and out of form number 9. Like Torres, Carroll needs the boost of goals and the confidence they bring. Carroll is known to have a rather fruit-full off the field life which has been the suggested cause of his non success so far, but perhaps it's the shirt. With all the greats who have worn the Liverpool number 9, Robbie Fowler and Ian Rush to name a couple it couldn't be could it? Until Carroll turns up at Anfield, myself and fans alike will have to watch another great player struggle in the shirt that should optimizes goals. </p>
Nash Larson
2011-09-27T00:07:00Z
For Madrid, Red Is Not For Roses
A.J. Nelson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/For-Madrid,-Red-Is-Not-For-Roses/-138495166076883884.html
2011-09-26T18:01:00Z
2011-09-26T18:01:00Z
<p>Roses are red, violets are blue... Real Madrid has not been feeling rosy lately, but they are definitely familiar with the color red. A loss to Levante was sealed a week ago when red was shown to Sami Khedira in the 38<sup>th</sup> minute (a card that should be set at the feet of Ángel Dí Maria). The loss, followed by a mid-week draw to Racing Santander, had the Spanish media looking for more red, blood this time. “José Mourinho is ruining Madrid…” “Real Madrid’s Failure …” Those predicting Real Madrid’s slide were smiling broadly as Rayo Vallecano came out swinging on Saturday scoring in the first 12 seconds of the game, the fastest goal ever by an away team at the Santiago Bernabéu. </p>
<p>In the first 20 minutes, it was not Madrid’s Lass (Diarra) making an impact, but Vallecano’s 19 year old youngster, Lass Bangoura, whose speed and skill was causing a threat on both sides of the pitch. Even the commentators (who frequently have a big club bias) recognized the youngster’s talent, joking that Florentino Perez might need to pull out the check book at half time and sign him. As the game progressed, however, it was an exceptional defending job by an admittedly slower Raúl Albiol that kept Vallecano’s Lass in check.</p>
<p>Mourinho made changes to the starting lineup from the prior games as a result of injuries and in preparation for the upcoming Champions League game. The most surprising was the exclusion of the Germans (Khedira and Mesut Özil), but in the 28<sup>th</sup> minute, Mourinho had seen enough. Lass was off. Özil was on. It was a risk. Dí Maria had already picked up a yellow card, but it was Lass’ shaky passing that I suspect sealed Mourinho’s decision. He wanted the ingenuity and passing combination of both Özil and Dí Maria. The change worked and 10 minutes later Cristiano Ronaldo equalized. Gonzalo Higuaín would put them ahead at the half.</p>
<p>This was my first opportunity to watch Rayo Vallecano in action and I found myself realizing that although underdogs, they are much more than a recently promoted side that couldn’t pay their players for part of last season. They had chances for goals and kept up the pace, but made a few critical mistakes (including a penalty on Kaká that would give Madrid and Ronaldo a penalty kick to extend their lead). Vallecano would strike again though, in the 54<sup>th</sup> minute. For a moment, we were all reminded about the need for goal line technology, but thankfully the referee’s assistant got it right.</p>
<p>Unfortunately, Dí Maria would be at the center of controversy again. The 23 year old Argentinian received a second yellow for an intentional handball in the 56<sup>th</sup> minute and would be sent off. It is difficult to be overly critical of this red card, but it definitely had many seeing red. Certainly Dí Maria did not want to be the player that caused his team to go down to 10 men twice in a week. However, regardless that the handball had no impact on the play of the game (the ball went off the upper part of his arm and straight out of bounds), Dí Maria had to be punished.</p>
<p>Albiol said after the game that “the fans were patient and never stopped supporting us”. Even Mourinho conceded that “risks” were taken in the game. In the end, and luckily for Dí Maria, the skill and power of Real Madrid was too much for the less experienced Vallecano side. The additions of Karim Benzema and Sami Khedira for Higuaín and Kaká, moments after Di Maria’s ejection, would only strengthen the team and Madrid would comfortably win. </p>
<p>Red was the color this past week for Madrid and it is certain they hope that is a trend that does not continue. It is worth noting that 18 year old Raphael Varane scored his first goal for the team on Saturday, a beauty. He may be the one player who deserves red this week, in roses, because he is certainly winning over hearts in Madrid.</p>
<p><em>A.J. Nelson can be found on Twitter @FootieObsessed.</em></p>
A.J. Nelson
2011-09-26T18:01:00Z
Finding Cassano
Ogo Sylla
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Finding-Cassano/903460606189878554.html
2011-09-26T17:32:00Z
2011-09-26T17:32:00Z
It was a tough ask for the Rossoneri, even admittedly against lowly Cesena, considering the laundry list of injuries they were entering this match with. It was a makeshift attack indeed with Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Robinho [still] unavailable and Alexandre Pato the latest addition to the infirmary. Allegri therefore lined up a tridente (trident) of Antonio Cassano, Urby Emmanuelson, and Stephan El-Shaarawy. <br /><br /><br /><span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>It was a strange experiment but one that was forced upon Allegri. Since before that match, there had been some interesting rumors emerging about the potential of Allegri deploying Cassano as a false 9. In the end Allegri did not and as interesting an idea as it might have been, it would not have been the best tactical choice in my opinion. In this tridente, Cassano playing as a false 9 while Emmanuelson and Shaarawy offered the width makes does some sense on paper, but only to certain extent. However it would have been strange for Allegri to opt to play Cassano in that role since his abilities don’t really lend themselves to playing as a prima punta (target striker). But then again that is the exact point of a false 9, fitting those without the characteristics of a prima punta into advanced positions. As we all know, Allegri made his name as a 4-3-3 coach and the inclusion of Emmanuelson and Shaarawy would have dictated – to me at least – that the two would operate as wide forwards within the context of the false 9 strategy. It was not what transpired however as the tactical scheme evolved into Allegri’s usual 4-3-1-2, and that mainly because of Cassano’s tendencies. Cassano did very well in both creating & getting into goal-scoring positions but it was obvious that a certain lack of synergy in the frontline – understandably so – was missing. <br /><br /><br /><span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>In fact it is probably futile for me to even attempt to play Cassano as a False 9 in Milan’s weekend setup. The False 9’s effectiveness is not only contingent on one’s own individual ability to intelligently use the space to either call for runs in the verticality and/or drop deeper to create. The fact is the position is also contingent on the other two wide men and their ability to score goals & operate as auxiliary strikers. Emmanuelson is a winger by trade – or least an all-around left-sided player as he can also play as a left-back and left forward – and Shaarawy is a trequartista (playmaker). The point I am making is that there is no natural goal-scoring coming from those two and that would make a false 9 setup unbalanced. As much as the false 9 setup would dictate a 4-3-3, the formation is also narrowed out to Allegri’s usual 4-3-1-2 by Cassano’s movement. Cassano has tendencies to drop deep & drive forward at open spaces. This is where Allegri’s tactical savvy came to the fore as he also recognized Cassano’s tendencies and his tridente lack of goal-scoring ability. Consequently Emmanuelson was played in the trequartista role with the same though in mind that he would use his pace & running to press the opposition à la Kevin Prince Boateng. The difference is that the Dutch & Ghanaian have very different technical and physical abilities, and so the tactics cannot be completely replicated. As for Shaarawy, he was forced into a prima punta role to allow Cassano the freedom of movement to operate in his favored and most natural position. <br /><br /><br /><span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>The position Cassano plays [best and most naturally] is that of a neuf-et-demi (nine-and-a-half). Unlike a trequartista the neuf-et-demi doesn’t simply drop into space but instead drives at it from deep position as an attacking midfielder would. He plays directly and transitions individually from a playmaker role to a seconda punta (second-striker) role in a single play. Think of Kaka’s role back in the 2007 Champions League run or even Wayne Rooney’s role today for Manchester United. In fact Cassano’s best position has never really been as a trequartista behind the striker but as a neuf-et-demi. After all, we all remember the Italian’s exploits alongside Giampaolo Pazzini when at Sampdoria in Luigi Del Neri’s 4-4-1-1.<br /><br /><br /><span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>In the match against Cesena, whether it was knowingly, by accident, or simply the fruits of necessity in lining up a starting eleve, Cassano was played in his natural position. The Italian has done very well, especially from a fitness point of view, to play consecutive matches and putting himself at the service of the team. Cassano is very much repaying Allegri’s faith and proving that he has it within himself to be one of the strong pillars of this team.
Ogo Sylla
2011-09-26T17:32:00Z
Atletic-No Answer for Barcelona
Joseph Zucker
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Atletic-No-Answer-for-Barcelona/491377247077854682.html
2011-09-25T04:53:00Z
2011-09-25T04:53:00Z
It was the most beautiful torture I have ever experienced. The scoreline of 5-0 does not tell the entire story of the domination of Barcelona over Atletico on Saturday night. It’s unfair to say Atleti were second best. That would imply that you could compare the performances of the two squads. Lionel Messi once again proved why he is arguably the world’s best with a wonderful hat trick. The second goal is so incredible for the sheer ease with which he scored.<br /><br />After Barca’s draw with Valencia, it became harder to see Atleti getting anything out of the match. Guardiola went back to a 3-1-3-3, with Busquets dropping as a fourth defender when Barca weren’t on the attack. Dani Alves pushed up the pitch quite often during the match so sometimes, there would only really be 2 defenders behind midfield.<br /><br />Atletico stuck with the 4-3-3 they have been using for most of the season. One surprising change Gregorio Manzano made was to keep Arda Turan on the bench in favor of Gabi. He sent José Reyes out of the left wing, which may have proved to be a mistake, but I’ll get to that later.<br /><br />Things got off to a good start for Atletico when Tiago hit the crossbar in the fourth minute. Unfortunately, that was just about the Rojiblancos only highlight of the night. Barcelona’s midfield of Xavi, Cesc and Thiago held the ball for most of the match, waiting to exploit any weakness in the Atletico back four and play the perfect ball. That’s exactly what they did in the ninth minute when Xavi chipped a wonderful ball over the head of Luis Perea to David Villa who finished well. Then, Barca was quick to close down on the Atletico back four as they were trying to clear it. One thing led to another, Messi had a shot that was saved by Thibault Courtois only to be deflected in by Miranda. And that essentially ended any competitive balance in the match.<br /><br />Although Barcelona only played with only two real defenders, Alves and Eric Abidal, Atletico could hardly get the ball past midfield. The Barca line was pushed so high up that Radamel Falcao was left to received the ball at almost the halfway line, thus rendering him ineffective. The Catalan club did what they do best, tiki-taka the ball around the pitch. They clogged the midfield and didn’t allow Atletico to have any time on the ball. I was actually surprised to see Atletico actually had 32% of possession. That seems a bit high.<br /><br />On the other hand, Barcelona was allowed to pretty much hold the ball up as long as they wanted. It’s one thing I just don’t understand. Why don’t teams try and press Barcelona more? If you just sit back, they pass you to death. Xavi had plenty of time to line up his chip to David Villa, and Cesc had about five minutes to decide to try and chip the ball into the net only to have it hit the crossbar.<br /><br />I have had a lot of praise for Manzano so far this year, but I think he got some of the tactics wrong today. Starting Antonio Lopez at left back was a mistake, as well as Reyes on the left. I would have put Arda on the left and Reyes on the right, with Filipe at left back. Valencia showed a real weakness in Barcelona on the left when Alves pushes up in the attack. The opportunity is there to try and counter. Reyes did have a couple dangerous runs down the left, but I don’t think he ever tracked back once. Arda would have been a much more balanced midfielder on the left. Lopez can push forward a little, but doesn’t have anywhere near the speed to get back as does Filipe. There was definitely an opportunity to try and make the most of a Barca defense that didn’t have either Carles Puyol or Gerard Piqué, but then again, in order to attack, you have to have the ball.<br /><br />As awful as it was to watch on one hand, it was also a bit of a pleasure. I’m not going to say that this Barcelona side is one of the best ever because it’s way too early to compare them to anyone in history. But the gulf in class between Barcelona and most of the clubs in La Liga is simply stunning. The way Messi carved up Atletico was scary. Maybe the worst part was how much Barcelona took their foot off the gas in the second half, yet didn’t drop off in quality. If they really wanted to, Barca might have been able to score 10 or 15. It would be painful if it weren’t so beautiful.<br /><br /><strong>Falcaometer</strong> (as of September 25, 2011)<br /><br /><img 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" alt="" /><br /><br />This week: 6<br /><br />It was hard to see Atletico getting a lot from this match, but they were so thoroughly dominated, it’s hard not to feel scared for the rest of the season. The back four, especially Luis Perea, was horribly exposed. Falcao nor Diego were at any point a threat to the Barcelona defense. It will be interesting to see how they rebound against Rennes in the Europa League on Thursday.<br /><br /><strong>Falcaonter</strong><br /><br /><img src="data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAAK0AAACtCAYAAADCr/9DAAAXT2lDQ1BJQ0MgUHJvZmlsZQAAeAHVWWdUFcuy7pmdYLM3Oeecc84554wgabPJWZIEQUVEBRRBRCSoIEoUDAiICoggIEpSBEUUAyKCCpIlvUGP59y77rv/3p/Xa03PN1XV1TVTHap6AGCbI0VGhsK0AISFx0TZm+jz7nF148WNAxxgB7SACFRJ5OhIPVtbS/Bfy8oLAO0yn0nt6vqvYv87g87XL5oMAGSLsH18o8lhCG4AANYnR0bFAIBaQ+iD+2MiEYzuQTBjFGIggl/v4oDfeH4X+/zCGPQvGUd7AwAwrABQEEikqAAAiIIInTeOHIDoIRoCgKUP9w0KB4BhD4K1yYEkXwDYChAZybCwiF3ciWBRn3/RE/AvmETy+VsniRTwN/79LkhLpGPDoOjIUFLCr4f/yyosNBb5Xr8KPVITwkOtd33DjFyffUmGFsidE7m2I0N/+QyRgdj9wp0cENoulgz3sbb5C2v7RxnbIxhpC9lGxujvYuSbQf6RMbaOf9FTEgMNrBFMQOh5ftFGf/RcCiaZ7/qMGqHfjIq1d0KwIILbo+McjBCMjCjoY2Kgo8tfMku+foZ/0WHYP8jY7LcMTB8UY7bbFyPic/6QCItdG5C+YGVgAUKBH4gFUUgdDqSAJTAAhn/VUsAfkBBOHMKLBiHgE4LDkBYRSJsIBPP+JWfwHxTjX+0CkHb/rpEXkBHZ2L/7/N0bL9LnH51BwBfBf+gkpI9d3q510V5Bqf/0+UdiV98va2RrZGdkN//YhBZGy6OV0PpoLbQ2Wg3wopnR7EAKrYhWReuhddAaCE8NGIOPiOaAPzbu6g+76R9XEJGg7hyIcHff3ecPFzj/kg76+/k/LABB/XNNc38sACDGLx6ZBwAYREQmRAUFBMbw6iEz10+S1yycLC3JKy8rJ7fL/n9Tdtes38Yu2v9aiyDmgX9oHk0AKOKRKTn1Dy3KHICb3wFgV/+HJjyCzHscANepybFRcb/1oXdvGIAHNMgIZQPcQACIIt9ZHigDDaALjIA5sAGOwBV4IuMnEBmDUWA/OAAOg3SQCU6Ds6AQXASXQSW4Bm6CJnAPPACPQB8YBCNgHEyCKTAL5sEK2IAgCAcRIQaIDeKBhCAJSB5ShbQhI8gSsodcIW8oAAqHYqED0BEoE8qFCqFSqAq6Ad2BHkC90BD0EnoHzUA/oJ8wCibAjDAXLAzLwKqwHmwBO8IecAC8D06E0+BTcAFcBtfCjfADuA8egSfhWXgZBVBUKGYUH0oKpYoyQNmg3FD+qChUCioDlY8qQ9WhWlDdqGeoSdQcah2NRTOgedFSyDg1RTuhyeh96BR0FroQXYluRHein6HfoefR2xgihhMjgVHHmGH2YAIw+zHpmHzMVcxtTBdmBDOFWcFiscxYEawK1hTrig3GJmGzsCXYemw7dgj7AbuMw+HYcBI4LZwNjoSLwaXjzuNqcW24YdwUbo2CioKHQp7CmMKNIpwilSKfopqilWKYYppig5KWUohSndKG0pcygTKbspyyhXKAcopyA0+HF8Fr4R3xwfjD+AJ8Hb4L/xq/SEVFxU+lRmVHFUR1iKqA6jpVD9U7qnUCPUGcYEBwJ8QSThEqCO2El4RFIpEoTNQluhFjiKeIVcSHxDfENWoGamlqM2pf6oPURdSN1MPU32goaYRo9Gg8aRJp8mlu0QzQzNFS0grTGtCSaFNoi2jv0I7SLtMx0MnR2dCF0WXRVdP10n2mx9EL0xvR+9Kn0V+mf0j/gQHFIMBgwEBmOMJQztDFMMWIZRRhNGMMZsxkvMbYzzjPRM+kyOTMFM9UxHSfaZIZxSzMbMYcypzNfJP5BfNPFi4WPRY/lhMsdSzDLKusHKy6rH6sGaz1rCOsP9l42YzYQthy2JrYJtjR7OLsduz72S+wd7HPcTByaHCQOTI4bnK84oQ5xTntOZM4L3M+4Vzm4uYy4YrkOs/1kGuOm5lblzuYO4+7lXuGh4FHmyeIJ4+njecLLxOvHm8obwFvJ+88HyefKV8sXylfP98Gvwi/E38qfz3/hABeQFXAXyBPoENgXpBH0ErwgGCN4CshSiFVoUChc0LdQqvCIsIuwseEm4Q/i7CKmIkkitSIvBYliuqI7hMtE30uhhVTFQsRKxEbFIfFlcQDxYvEByRgCWWJIIkSiSFJjKSaZLhkmeSoFEFKTypOqkbqnTSztKV0qnST9DcZQRk3mRyZbpltWSXZUNly2XE5ejlzuVS5Frkf8uLyZPki+ecKRAVjhYMKzQoLihKKfooXFMeUGJSslI4pdShtKasoRynXKc+oCKp4qxSrjKoyqtqqZqn2qGHU9NUOqt1TW1dXVo9Rv6n+XUNKI0SjWuOzpoimn2a55gctfi2SVqnWpDavtrf2Je1JHT4dkk6ZzntdAV1f3au603piesF6tXrf9GX1o/Rv668aqBskG7QbogxNDDMM+43ojZyMCo3eGPMbBxjXGM+bKJkkmbSbYkwtTHNMR824zMhmVWbz5irmyeadFgQLB4tCi/eW4pZRli1WsJW51Rmr19ZC1uHWTTbAxszmjM2ErYjtPtu7dlg7W7siu0/2cvYH7LsdGBy8HKodVhz1HbMdx51EnWKdOpxpnN2dq5xXXQxdcl0m98jsSd7T58ruGuTa7IZzc3a76ra812jv2b1T7kru6e4vPEQ84j16Pdk9Qz3ve9F4kbxueWO8XbyrvTdJNqQy0rKPmU+xzzzZgHyOPOur65vnO+On5ZfrN+2v5Z/r/zlAK+BMwEygTmB+4FyQQVBh0EKwafDF4NUQm5CKkJ1Ql9D6MIow77A74fThIeGdEdwR8RFDkRKR6ZGT+9T3nd03H2URdTUaivaIbo5hRILDJ7GisUdj38VpxxXFre133n8rni4+PP5JgnjCiYTpROPEK0noJHJSxwG+A4cPvEvWSy5NgVJ8UjoOChxMOzh1yORQ5WH84ZDDT1NlU3NTl464HGlJ40o7lPbhqMnRmnTq9Kj00WMaxy4eRx8POt5/QuHE+RPbGb4ZjzNlM/MzN7PIWY9Pyp0sOLlzyv9Uf7Zy9oXT2NPhp1/k6ORU5tLlJuZ+OGN1pjGPNy8jb+ms19nefMX8i+fw52LPTRZYFjSfFzx/+vxmYWDhSJF+UX0xZ/GJ4tUS35LhC7oX6i5yXcy8+PNS0KWxUpPSxjLhsvzL2Mtxlz+VO5d3X1G9UnWV/Wrm1a2K8IrJSvvKziqVqqpqzursGrgmtmam1r128JrhteY6qbrSeub6zOvgeuz1Lze8b7y4aXGz45bqrboGoYbi2wy3MxqhxoTG+abApslm1+ahO+Z3Olo0Wm7flb5bcY/vXtF9pvvZrfjWtNadtsS25fbI9rkHAQ8+dHh1jD/c8/B5p11nf5dFV88j40cPu/W623q0eu71qvfeeaz6uKlPua/xidKT20+Vnt7uV+5vHFAZaB5UG2wZ0hxqHdYZfvDM8Nmj52bP+0asR4ZeOL0YG3UfnRzzHfv8MvTlwqu4Vxvjh15jXmdM0E7kv+F8U/ZW7G39pPLk/XeG7568d3g//oH8YfZj9MfNqbRPxE/50zzTVZ/lP9+bMZ4Z/LL3y9Rs5OzGXPpXuq/F30S/NXzX/f5kfs/81ELUws6PrEW2xYolxaWOZdvlNythKxurGWtsa5XrquvdP11+Tm/s38RtFmyJbbVsW2y/3gnb2YkkRZF+xQIopIb9/QH4UYHkEK5I7jAIAJ76d07xSwJJVyBEBsFowACkkbgsCwxDvMi+PQqbwI9QDqjv6EKMC1YUB+HeU7yifI2fJeCJMtReNOdo39JLMCQwDjLLspxhXWH34OjlkuPO41nks+a/IrAkpCEcLXJJtFNsRHxU4pHkValEaQMZrEyXbJqcoTxO/rHCSUU7ZN16ppyrYq9Ko/pE7YS6sQascV8zQUtRa1G7USdVd6+egb6qgbyhgBHeaNF4zmTTTNDc3iLWMsvqnHWJTaltuV2FfZVDtWONU61zrUvtnnrXe24T7qwewZ493hwkN5+D5HO+FX6N/p0Bw4Fvg+aC10IxYSzhKhFRkc+irKJ7Y0XjPPbHxB9IOJZYkFR/oDf540FwiP+wQ2rhkfWjnul3jm2fkM6wziRnhZ2MPBWbffh0QU5D7vMz62eV84sLdAvpiz6VnL2IuWRXeqSs9HJ9eeOV1qs9FSOVn6vRNWK1jtdS667XT9zA31S95d9w7vZAE6HZ8s7xlva7C/f5Wm3akttrHox1bHfSd1F2fXhU2Z3UE9Ab9ji1rwgZff39bwaGBsMGvw5pDZ0c+jpc9SzlufeI4QvRUcLo97Hhl7df5Y9HvTaeIE50v0l5qzmJmZx4d+99yYfkj+5T6p+YPn2f7v18ZebIF59ZvTmOubmvV7+5ficg46lkIe6H46LiEsPSj+WRlc7VgXX4Z+Amdmt6Z+eX/+mBJLBHosAeiAkiQ61IPFaE4kLVoW0wMOY+Nh3nSWFEqY5XptIh2BDDqHNp2mhX6eUZohnvMKNYLFlL2L5wqHOmcfXx0PGa8x3irxV4KjgttCT8VWRMtEEsVdxYfFuiXtJdCit1XdpdBifTIEuSo5Vrl49U4FMYVDykJKc0qZytoq0yq3pezVhtUf2ihqXGmuZlLRutTe1rOmRdId0VvRH9NoM6w0tGZ4zTTeJNg8z2mltYaFpKWnFYU1qv2UzbvrQbsh9yGHecddpwodxD78rqxrWX113AQ8hTxEvUW5wk4SNNVvG18ovxrw54H0QTLBmiEWoYZhPuGRERmbrvbFRVdFvMmzjK/brxSQm3EicPoJK5UxQPGh2yP+yduu/IsbSLR5vSh48tnODKcMu8nDV/Sjk78nRZzrMzFHmGZ4/njxYonS8q3Cy2K8m70HNxrVSkzOnykfIbV95XsFe6IyvdRq3Ztay67vqtG/I3A24VNvQ3Qk3yzd53Mltu3B25t97K1abbTn5wrKP6YV/np66VRyvdMz0jvQ+RdanuydWnJf1nB7IGjwwlDkc+83vuPuL6ImA0d2zwFdW47Gu9CcM3hm/1J3Xfab1X+SD7UWxK8BPvNPdn7hmJLy6zt74qfrszT7+g9cNq0X7JeXnvCmk1du32T+tN4a2PO3Q7x3/5H4vkxfxIfhAESsAExA+FQR0wP5yDwqOy0GzoJownlgb7BJdDQaLUwHNSoahWCN+Ic0gUuUwH6GkY+BjlmAyYHVhIrGFssezxHHGcYVxu3Do8bDwfeS/zufBt858XUBBoE7QUfCFEEvoiHC28JXJUlFr0nBifWJW4gniLhIHEY0l7yTEpL6lP0mHSizKJsrBsphyj3AV5MflbCtoKvYqOim+VgpWWlQ+p4FXyVHlUK9Xk1VrUDdX7NBw1xjXJml+0IrR+aMdr7+jk6srovtE7p+9swGrwyrDYyMOY2/ityUVTLyQSGTU/aaFp8cXygtVeaxHrDZtntrV2afZuDjKOaMdRp3LnYBdul8d79rsquMFuk3t73Bs8Sj2zvQ54B5EcfLTIwr7Uvot+z/2vB2QEBgXZBxuF6IZqhamFy0UwR4xGHtpH3FcR5R3tGEOOPRhXsv9u/MuElSSaA9zJfClsB+kOMR0WS7U8EpN24Whv+o/jHCe0M+wzzbKET4KTs6c2TkvmhOfeQtYXnfzUc20F84XMRarFPiUlF2YuaZbmlk2Xa17JuTpVqV51qvpdrcq1nLqV64E3Jm85NNxtZGoKbr7bQrzree96K9Tm0F7+YOmhYeeZrslu4R7v3qzHd58Qnp4a0BmiGB57XvUiccziFf9rpjfm78DHlVnuJetd//8+W9rdE7DKAOQPAOC4CoAzCwDZ5wAQ8QOABclHbYkIXQ3AqnYA+uQPIGH/v/cPJmT3MAHeIAHkgGrQCSbAKkSHZIXGEAlKhs5Dt6FhaB6mhqVgSzgUzoLr4EF4EcnhNFAk1HHUDdQ4kqcpoH3QZ9DdSDamionF3MHCWEdsHY4el4z7RuFDMYpkSn14C/wglSvVNCGBSEOsojalnqU5RStD+4jOie4tfSD9OsMZRinGe0y6TPeZNZjbWMxYXrPGstGxXUfyh2WOIk5Dzu9cJdxW3Ds8dbzOvD/40vkZ+EsExJGR6SFEIXRfOFFETWRTtF3smLitBKfEF8k7UkelTaQ3ZMpkdWTH5KLl6eUfKZxSDFZyUNZU4VdFq06rPVav18jTjNYy12bWHtU5q+uox6b3Wb/b4JZhjVGdcavJiOlXs20LCksaKyZrDhsWmx3bIbsz9jr2nx2yHJUdp5yuOCe6+Ozxco1wO723w33bU8srybuZ9IMs5Gvnt9+/OOBB4OdguhDN0KCwgvDuiKV93FFG0cExubFtcT/iJRKCEquS5pLlUuIPPjhMnxqF7Fydx56cuJZpl/XslEV2R45GbnOe3tmtgqYLfJfiymLLA656Vu6pdq7dU+d5PfRmVsOLJq876/d8Wy+293Wsdol0e/aW9n3r1xw8Njw4wj4a8fLL6+a3Te/jP65P+80MzGl9q1tgWfRa9luVXuv7qbmRtdm59XF76df6wQzkkJOmAOQcoRg5NRgGXyFK5FRAH/JCTgCKkKx/DFqDWWF1eC+cguTzj+BZFD1KDeWDykI1o6bQTGhjdCL6BnoWI4oJxtzCorDu2HacNK6CQoSihlKBshVviZ+giiIQCNVEK+IydRmNEy2Btocug96OgZ3hHWMJkyXTAnMuiwLLC9YkNgG2fvYkDkmOt5xnuay58dw9PCd4TfnQfHf5wwX4BEYFc4TshBmFx0WuiO4T0xWnE5+SuCuZJxUmrS9DI/NM9rScpTxBflShXjFXKUmZrGKhKq/Gro5Wn9eY0HykVal9VMddV1GPRm9B/43BMJL7DBq/NPlkumQOWRAsWawErGVttGwN7HTs5R14HKkcN5yWnFdcdlyp3Jj2crnzefB7cnkxeEPe30mTPmPkcd85f4oA8UCboLjgSyF9oWvhQhE2kdH7TkdVRN+PGYld3s8Tb4tEKA+StpI1Ug4cbD2MSjU/kp82na51rPD4RoZn5sOT4qfysndyQnNf59mefXrO9TwofFhccCH0kmoZdLnvSkFFUJVmDUPt17on1+tuZjd4NeKbcu8QWrLuCd1/09b4oPjhsa647qBe3z7/p8ED4UP7nsWOxI+Gv9R89fy1/kTxm4VJu3fjH85OpU6fnLk02/C17/v4woNF16W65U+rhDW19cwNvV/+5wRawAOkgAugDUxCMCQImUAhUDbUAL2CIVgMtocPwBXwcxSMkkf5ogpQ/Wgc2gCdin6EocF4YZqwHNhsZKZfpTCk+EJ5Dm9JhaPqJeQRA6j1aYRoaekA3TL9d4Z5xlVmLAsHqzqbN/tpjh4uPLcjTxUfDX+UQK1gp1C/8JjIJ9E1cVoJCUlLqWjpCpkFOQP5QwqVil1K71RgVTE1R/U0jXtaWO0kXbxePBJL/DDiNrY0STKtM5uy4LMkWV2x/mqrY1figHEMdLrvgt1j6prhNoj4LN/rIGmCXO9H9LcKOBLYErQYIh0aGnYtfDXSbl9btFZMYxz7/tD4WwnrSToHjiUPHeQ6FH6454hG2mT6/eNZGVyZKVm9p6iz7ZEI8u0Zsbz9Z/vOSRYUFbIWnSmBL/hcvF2KKrO+XFg+c1W1IqNyolq+5njtZJ16ff71HzetbpU3rDTqNh1p7mqhurvnXn0rXVtS+5cO94cDXYaPWnrke2v6hJ+U9fMOlA4JDlc9lx1pGbUYm3lV9NrjDfPbmnds74M/lH8cntqaFvpsNRP75eJs79zyN77vVvNxCyU/bi62LjUsn18JWJVY7V0LWFteJ68P/9T9WflzcUNnI2PjxSbfZvBm2ebLLbot061DW01b37dFtl2207dvb3/cYdjR34naKd0Z3PV/tL+C/O7uASCCPnL8+GZnZ1EYAFwuAFs5OzsbZTs7W5eRZAP5B9Ie+vt/xa4wFjlzL27fRY/uJu/e/q38DwT7fzuu2dvGAAAgAElEQVR4Aey9CZSlx1Xned/39iX3rSqrSlVaSrIklyTLxgubsQ0GYzhuaPow0+2mOTTdbE33nD5whoFzYJqlgcFmmTNw3DPAAcaAD4PZabAxFl5YbCMsybakKqlKqr2ycs+Xb9/m97/xvsxXWVmlcqucqkw5Mt973xJfRHwR/7hx740bNxI9gn0xXFkDHbNegmqJetaxrqmCkpawiE/Pz7avspalNtJJcKRPHJLXrOaeJXpds07IhUzCg54FKSQHU4lTe3n/Jr4I2u0AAIgcnAJpAE1Cl14g9HqbAEsI9APnveT2CQibrX48Pd1VfvwL5N5RNpN8gdxfPre/CNpt2rrbp67RAOhiAHaghE4Et3kuJYoZB0UK+OM3YY1rPCRMppUPVF2AFSVXviK4npEf6OSLIa6BL4I2romBX8EnYC4g1KEIrnQt2b8zEP2KQ8UJLIQuJ4RbD9tSam6KIHuSykrnerortiRhXc4zAP6L4coa2GTCrrz+sj6jJ0McBR8N14ReB9YS+ttsWBNqmogC+ZM4cCWk0gAPsPmTAFaA419gzEQa7OPYdAvSETit07VUu2PtpLoKx8RJprPWTCStoefoJl8MV9bAFyntlfURzgBjAB+jNkBKrK3a/Ic/YOtPfNqGyl3LZrImwHY6ktgCXdV5t5cCrgHsiTRgE7gBbpRJWzuf5TASHbUuIG21m9as163dbEFt21aH503z7HCqZKP33GtDb/tq60yM01lCB9mumC/Xa1+ktNu1vFPLcCPR7dj5D/yFtX7vd+32xQWrFwrWEhi5LhooainAcgBVBLBc12kHytnhoMN1oG1dSHYPkAu0EVQ0FSWCroHjdjpn6VTPcp2EFTs5m3vsuK2NF+3A279+u9K97K+9fLuxQMRHw39boBLSNFwLXU0BDOBxp/zUP1rrv/+JTQG49ZGCrWfWrBm1LerUiFSzSr5gvewqlBTlWAa6XMyblcxS+Zol8l2LuJ/N5GwkUbD8cM1KuZIV85GVopLlUtOWKOYsn8hZJ5uydZ5bG+GZUteW/u7jZotLrgmrU8oO1Fjop2hoG7zAfL08w8ua0orlVPtrQHcNlTDAxR5UL4ISJpYX7fLvvN8mLi1Zotu2dcDWyuQBbNFyLQbzZNYsf8hyyTGOC9bhuTYJdRn6rduwThuwNcQLt6wCcKvZlmXT4zbUrUBVodMM/R16R5bOkkVPq2dTzSZUt2XVk8/Z8if/ycbe9rUOVC9oH6Mqs0r9cg0vW9B2xW7S6j7UiNwKwAKsDhPwmZcv2+Jv/K6N/v2Tlu+2AGTCct2kzSylXVxq5BN2Ile00r/8FkveNWqVVNpGahH61Za1exECGwJVs2qJWtnq1aYNrVYt2bhkK6dWrfbpj9psRzSzbelExawhQQ0K2+KcyxGFK6ZTduGP/8wSh47Y8P1HwTdNJT6DoHKHzuanL7uvly1o1f5q/JQAS5DErxmvlZVVO/tn77fhTz5qE8cvWgkgV4pQVYbvYhOONANgunVidq3dytt6PWnDNgRV7dlZhK2hXsU6iYxVUzkrtdNWtDzQLFiTDEuptl0unrT6Z/7RbivULYXmoBelrTWUgQIjiAHWpFQNUOhCEu3BhXP2kXe9yw7/u2+3ux562EqFPHy0dAwquT4vz/CyBa03t8iVPrACTaCwfOGiXX76pHX/6IM2Nr9gGYbs1ULX1jIJS7cbNl7tWDnftg48bc/qtoYA1eK5UjKyeq9p44sVm1g6bo1Wx1Z7IzbUWbREp27rU/fZqfGCDUNRz8G/5uo8XV91liRhVauSfreBkAabEEGlNbXQhR0pINqNXWzY8499xmrwxOOjeZs8NGXDxVFGg6AKcyGQV3D1mr/U3v962YJWbAFYBShdm19bsecX5iy/XLGVx5+xAwurkN66VdMJq4vxbcPfAqgWtZVrpuFpIc/JluUAbBRlUX11UU21rVX/hHUvvteGYBW6ycNQ3UvMhAHE/L+xXOYBy5BAJ1sCrOQOy9FKoQaDdEvoS8Hjdsmjm4LPhdeV1iLbWrfZKGenTl+0sQfMLsCynF89Y2PFSZsdP2DDE8OWzyP4vczCngbtdfk+wLq6vGILFy/ZhWbFmhim5BnDlz97wg4UMrbWg5KhXsgBugK8ao/JhTpDuHVHLAu1jKC2Al0yN0Q8QEa8bnPI8p0RS7WqluHxJGJ+Nzlqre6UFRGy8tDnNM+kE2lLkX4jlbIk88JpAOusAgVuahoMlVqK9LJ0hgQUvH55yeqNlpWKWSg7FH51zaqLsBfnI5ucnLKZmRkrlVA9vEzCrgdtG2oHd8n8vUAGReTTg4QyEnM9UFOps5DznV/sMsxfKi/ZyqWyNaplhuKGJXIF29/O2cnqKTQFJ2y8Lb6UdGEPEqSlY3UAlK/64lNFys/aGsr/9HDXRjhfjvLWLN1ux498LyouZsbgVUVCxX+m8hMANwKklC2NlkDsRi0HfwpgpRvQpANUXQreFE/47Bu2CI2CtAtNm1xZYxKiisoMDQUcdIr8kjzZbrfs3LkLNjc3byMjIzYxMWGjoyNQdd4WYt5GKBS7IW49DCsY4ZCHQs8t2HSEwKhvqLzKIe3JrR52PWhTokw0Y4v6blLp/DhAc1K+StABDAJeHVXSytKyXZ6/bCsAQBJVAYoWJaF2TLGmAdnKuYt2qNUyZCBvyjAtoAZWHuI0Nd8l6temkcmJZ6O0cgyiUW4c1RefiHJomjYOXYZ6BceDopOKUOXf6hz9K5LBXNVGfmIVxEWkEOpE4FsANE050a1BhWk2TQsnOpbm/cTXLi8v2+LioqXQOjQuLtkrZ2Zt6pWHrTMypG6Jik3QpcOQJjUCUPkIp+QtM8wWebpVGee3etj1oHUk0NppGg4iJmLrn67aFfC055bt5KXTVoWytBGQgChK/by1JMjAh4q6JAEvk1HWvQTFAlkJgOTg8SZVEwbqpCM1Mjop6yF8CUAR/Kv10CYQpS1wI0BBmymDqL4ih/IIKE7ziCKzRbdE4Ffp+WOAXHEU9C2AqwwijBEA1pRxBL8rtiEJxdZL9gBuVywE6Qi4STqRWIul9SX76/f/kb3y0D4beuPDNnn/MYvGDqK+SAd+mfSpjlA+JUWO6lben/i91cOuBG0sMXvleuWr0mlEGkDtKSGmMbdklz/5uH3mUVRXb3jQUgf2YwOQhLpoUE4YcwMmE1fZA2h+v4FglJlftFKnvQGKmFYKQAKPMxwcq3m7ACpiGE5ncyTSCADjXpQSHLnER8/4Y3xDk+lUUHZAlSSO0gqUWyxIiNiFz1b8nkgsQZ2nB4VNwW+LHkcUJKl89ac0dN+BDe/MiOP1AviHjszaheGU5R590haffswuTkzb/tlXWPKNx2z02INWmtzHy5MPhdTEsliDLCd6T+9Bnvut+7UrQavqVANJzdPiGJ0/HB5DXG3dKk89Y9V/eNRqn3jcTiyvW+bNX2rTBw4aE6LM9wc9qFM0cCEdrdKQoUq107LhtbrlIwbTSFZd4i4D+ESNez7cB7D68/C3EYBNpskZpAlWQoHgJnZEQXYG4V+A8EiowEhbh5yr8zgroaFbD/IRkIAgo78OeEdYkUgPcDVOW7koOafEyla3SUu/yrPIpEchj+64e47Ztgoze5esfWbFlp74lJ2bnbGJe15po697wEr332O54RGeJDRJiGno3RB2LWhV0wJchtZbvHzO2p9+0tYf+VszQJtdX0ORD/WbOGhDrziKiR/AZEZJ9C1JfF9Kw/CehcETS5xCil9HvZSrtS3HeRPKJ4DrnuOB5zZWJZCWU6M2RoRZVFY8C2vZJ1ACoeDDl57Rl9JwNAE6UUyEM/oAeUKRORf1dLLncfv8rVNBIjEdLBhJmPJfUVni63mxH8rLWXrF4URlFGjzyZxlxvbZcvZJG2IU0DjUznZtupK2+plztnrpvF38h7+x3uHDNvP619nRN7/ZkkNoQbwsKsitHW550MagcQTQSGpigVV/7WrN5j74Yev88YessnDZCq0GdgAYshQRtDpV66DQT+2btqYP2fC8DIOSzFskIvAGvjVApoEANiLWgPtCiCyxEgA7FqJE5wIYgYV4SQb8VAZrV8CdgCEWmHhyI6iMCg5YHQu4/qMyAC6AGcGfuDSPzUKIzDdl1MSBqK20HiqHgq8jo1xKSisbRM27oFeymdJ2+1zlQSFa8L7lGWwcENJuq/asmWnbUqbJVDQjDYY+JfjgkXLB6k+esueeO2dVTCXzX/l6OzA2aUOwPKHknm3/S+W7+upgjJ08vsVAq0oPlSOK0aWFmoArDSic96KRhak205yVp5+3+m/9utVPPGZFzjOllI1hJtXINa2dW7Lc6m3WnrwTPWoWNkAARZhh2O/R0IJEER62EhXRmdKYyY4NrbdttL1q9RzcJ3Ha6GHTSRhfaSAY0sX7igfVJEAzJfuvLBZeedufqGMLm4GXZuKgD0w1oFuN6YB3cNjxahWmgPMYkhfRZDRzwL6XhpfETkGsAHl06QA9dQL0uKLIMqBJUs6kgKtjpjOYVOaaTMXFz5J+P09uc8wHMOd5p2Rhivi8G2lJtTICnx+hKmsnmQruNgE26r5uzvZ1ztqFj/+9ZQ/cZeXMRcsXC6jOJm2GT7DlpfMwlKgj0TXJ4KUPtwxoVd+SYF0oB5iCrgQl7FI8NNttW2NGqLxes6VK3cq/8Qd2+8mnLUs9pgQMAYu2TZKAhs4WeqsCetQsPGcCYUaNK8rKvwcBkwsOxoR0XABf2NGxBBO3fRVQkchVthD0sJ6B0pFZhKG3GjZQ1cBjiydV6P+EE74lgPlFOkFgCXhOF0jLg/LlOEL1Jv2wsJjkWBPMovgueCkNPi5AQqrbMrIRS0Bc71KOXJ6jTBneW3lGsC+BbRBoyY7OQB8FzDykzkzddGtoP5wYtGxtZcWq2F+06jWbPXjIyxq63dY3CsV+Kb5vGdCKTIQBtt+QcevzW2417cxzp63JCoJEIWfry3O27/nzqKdEjTA0of41qEWoDqQhSEfMaGG8kh5ndorklJSWyDjH59gRXGgldK0Cr/jXDpJ7JHBI/yqqAoB8elb6UKmSQIYLYwKZwKwOID2t0iUDn9S4TgtqOHeQQvFkFCNaqU6q4J2AX2c7EPh6AJvbXFc+dA4AnUT/Ks2BsyMUR3pi7wi8u8omDG7w3cRL8S56R32rp+qeZu3UYaSsYPI4TJ5QX71aw9q1qkWTsDuoBYvEKy8t2GnYiX37DzCb56moqLdEuGVAS9VSmaJWVD4f15tSuS34rZPwq4kGQlKmaDWoy/rTT9mxpXlLw7v2oHbSHPh6qyQ8qcCP8r2Sxu51fJhGZopAraSgygfkykvUQ0OxmsOpJaCV+V/kzKbiiBkQXwkFFuNIwUSNQEoAKucpp47CBEAXKJRHP+gdBoPOncICCtceUCTXMniZVC51KfoRfLWrvIivqWMvM3lKWHTTSYFREV048x7IdXUoLupD0MijulTj+uih+pHQp17CPSbk6KSKT5n4zQLqHJ2ipxlAouj+8sUL1l5ftzL1kN836x2GW7dEuGVAq9oQUBRU9VQzFdthBmsOcb6KGgfeDB5wuYFB9mePM5kJ70pjJWnMFBymGlggENSyra41sgVLahUBoFOqalhRR5rJ04+kwuJUFDJGm0Al8AibiinqLBzI4koUT4CVBCUKqBBTyHDMtwreD4MQVlp6H4UenVB9KECUC6TpgCUjva+CzvnyY39MbI9AxSWloo9u6300c6a8PA3eUby0ypcgHwl8UehpDl7F10ShGDFfvMl70UusiQCbYDSbyIz6CokU/Hzz5DO2fn7BDnwdBGAI40u0C/0SeQov5dctBNrQjGoAwUoN21latZV/fNxm7ziEgIVNqubUUcregRlfekLDNgsMGaJTUZNfCVpQTShQipmD7hgCGEtZkiQkoqIajxtdLegUFXKuqQanL8RRozhkAVLEbJlKpGvCNzSfm3QcrgWdLaARpVVcYom3FOY2BDA9QhDONaxLAJQhuQCT5cftCzxDvsi7h8AVua2Cxo3N4BSS57U4UsBMMmSryyRhD7p0JFFY/xPowaDyyohNIp8cYM9SLypTixFHFRBpWptungWYCXjmKJvGXqFkWVgpzIBslWhNLNiG4WsL2BOvpz9ma7dPW36o5PrszZK9dEe3DGjVUKICwaADfm9uwU68732Wqrdt8sgddgbjj3K7bvMXYQnmc3aiN2M9rKi0XirD9f2FVYY4KKJEaqhvuZWx+mLH9k+RKA0pTYQwIlguLjD7RW5jY0XO+OOG3wOdbq0FmM81x6zezjhAhKIEfOYo674mkvWQilMxQAQq5y9xDb3txIyk+82gdBsst1m63HA2p43y/sJZTBrL4yLYNlqoAIQ6FLZtDay9FupI7cUV2A5ZPQRq3upmbaFasGlYlzp65HPnMZyRtkTKYVRlLUYVATeFRDo9k7FarWNLyy27dAFQVlmDBlultHqsxjiQW1FVIMBlbL45gnXkhNU6abu8Pm7RWUwxBfSDaUwy2zZcrdpMo2Hzx5+z888et5lDR9w6zXvU4Etuvu6OHd0yoBVVS4ukAZgy1CBz/ozd8/d/YfVXfZk9O4KY1cDgZXnN3vOfz1j2M7fbkYOocyChoqyyoPreB5+2+yae4VrB5rr77V2/e8Tmfvu4/fgf3mcPvW7Mmqw6UF2L8v36Tz1jmUzPfuDnvsSpkyh0F4ok0ShKNuzDZ4/Zz/3t/fbALI1MfNHi+dWcnS9n7bff/iGbzCxCtXpufnj5XM1+7J89YeWzHfupDz5orzg24kB1+wL4z/f+nyftb9+/YHe/oUTHiWz93JqNPnfUnpkr2JuPXrLvPfZR3rtuFxqz9m//+uvs9bML9p8e/Dvbn5+Hcqfs1PId9vMfu89+/Pt6dnGpZr/1M6ehk9gAk9/Kcy2748tYWAl+D92bs+/+EazMHi/bT/+bk/aKBzoYpD/EjFgHA3I6CED8rmOP2mi0ZifXZ+37P/yVdkehbMND67aKhVrn5LN24VNt+7afPWhv/PoRKy5V7XL6PDbAEzbxt09b5VVfYaWxEQ0ldAB6sfoUlNvZq9C/Xn6gdUhBmkSdVAdtbF2znORHEKaQ5sW7ZRiOG8wM/IuHnrN/dedxuFpWtUKxEuglu1AkuDgoWNLe88QDNvSavD10bNL+24+ftJ9574M2NIyxCIKGAnjzj59c9dWz59eHbAKW4+e//EPkLdNBrpX32++cuNd5RA238l1QKVftN376SXvNN4xaLp+29/zvJ+xnfvNhjuEd6X8C+1OfWrOH3zZmP/jT92NtxQjxx39qr/nTD9kvPvEGOzE/QidDPeXkS34PmNC7MGL//sLb7Ae/9DF788xnPA2YJQCcsDvvKtmPvuduK0Bqfv93Fu3PfuG8/dD/dTcdkBrjnZwNAcDYgdmXv6lmr3v2SZvortlYacH1y3BV1qLzNhEGFb7j2OP28PQ/2BP5B23pm77dfv2/rNj8mZZNza0wGl2ybD5jeUatVQhIBfNHA7QayDQaeSupsV6CcMtQWr27eE6IkVPE5dNnbIohMEKYks4xyexTBV1tHgD94WN32SfOs+Av37L/7dWP2nh6xZ9NsYr1z04ftUfOTNj3vh7b2Hc8aJ/8qxX7nV953r77h+92/Wtcx945oLDeCPwO1r80ELQ8Qon0sNA1AHigsGQ/+MDHZeAFS5KydC6yf/hg1U59bsXe+d47KXPaPvDzc/a+Xz1l3/H9t7umwamt5Ec6S61atxoJVdZx0EHimojQjFgQwtRNyZB8f+yNf28nVqfth//udfYv7tlvXz55HhWe7qiscKOwAWnx5PC2gkyGm2nE/cB3qwIBJX8f/3DKji/fa+O5un33gx9DjSWhi/eCx3dDHJ793ePH7M8v3GUXWqwuXlqhjF277zbYkL/6CIJZGZmAemFmcXjlslXOnrPeK+4K+l0qyzUgpPFShFsGtGoA9V8BF3IKTzuvZkLYQh0jBT9DbQa+Th4Gv/G+S/bPbz/PUhizoT6PKdXW2eqU/eJH77Zxhs8/+/gUvO9zVppO2p//8kV7zRvH7Uu+fILZNOUC8GBD18st+GJWIGAsgi4d6ht6jCymWswirbFwMSs1GELZE8sH7d0fe9B+4S0fsf3ZeTu9NmYffGTCph9I2f/7C2cBRGTjD6Tt93/2nL3y4aI9+CWjVofhbms9WA1+fJXlNbxHjXzWmzleEZ0H+biqKrw5YE4gOHXsnXc+YveMzNvPfuRL7APHZ9GSSOALcdWB1CM0AdKmM4jqh8kDvZVEMhkPpe0tX7lkX3X2Maaml63FLF6th/+FdB1BjCVDGPqoE3zd3Zfs8NgFe8/fPWzPPd61f/dLt9tDiZPW+O+PWnZC+cm/Q8+GmmVbu3CWjtFxYVfPBuCQv/qJ/yn/nQm3DGj1uk4tRFXKFUstrtAwTLv29Zoy8hYVyTE2HkxVbHZkwYWrCEFEEnkXqvirn33Yju0v2099yUftyeKsrX/bG2z/7aP2m7/4rP3afz1ld/5mycbGs1YcStqn3r9kPzb3KeXqOuEawssPHJq0u8bn7OjIsv2BHbT/+ME3Qv/UcXCiUWbKNdNhaEYd1MvZ//OPd9tdbx+2//gTx2jAGgQMoQ0q9uvvPmXv/aXzdud/G7YRWJKHvmrE/vq3LtuPn37KVWnrl/L2/gtvtGXWmn39vWfQqVJ+kCbqV+Q91FFbTK++avyE/co3zNuvPvk6++DlO6R89ee9Y/OV5rw4BZiheurncdCkgiwj/uAPRuzDK69npNCUs9kIo9IPve7jCJJa/9Yir5YdKq55Pt/9jqz93+VZe9+7zlv70Bl7s617Z4g6BcoGRODzG3OXrFdhSTxaBJVBUNWBj45+vnNfsCfOoOxcjtfKiQrQrJQD5Dkq7yd/wcbXPm31N/0za33Tv7Ryc405/oSd/b3H7P6P/ZZNM7TW0YBl4S2lfUSRZHNUcJE4I80le7Z4xBb+7ffZbUcnXOoWpSsBohRCXgU7gzbUvA31QYxj+Utklz973o7+4a/ZUZsntZ6tNYqAk3krUbJ+mYtQ9WKqaZVkxVYXDtqjb3qT3fPOt7GODI2G4lKmRrNtFfRGQ8NwlgzdbbQO5TVg02TaFRuFE3/xQXvoY5+wmei8lTKwCuki06poEHi+3M5j5FJzICtPhyPr1v7yrrfY/u/9VgCHfQNWWznSXAP0Hd6hOCw2QVAXghhB6MSr6/Dgf/BX9qrHnrDRxAr1BCuCqnAog9cbUcZ20lYo2zDQzaQu2efyDPv/6jvhYekI7/oNG25/1nrY42ZY75ZFVmim1uzEHQ/Za/7991jqtkPUGCNCYIsZPehPXtZrNezNv35LUVqvUN6xhzugNIsDGRHdkquFSqhF4zUZOjvVBVa74r2FVbCusZR4T+hChScTy8ylazVYcBBnzKl3aKwU87xjk4hFQgJforQRElwbfjUFqZBLotYUul2mNCGazlePZjEocRzoIYlUUi2RTxeKq7zyawhQqLIQkKR+SiDpi0/NYFGWhQJqGNfQLVuIsQkMajREs2JiqNSzfZl5G0usk7+GFaUPMYMFGcusQrlUzvBOGoY19OdLYhtiaIriwjIBsCTC34bhuAYcSqlOOTSO45Bc1aYxHCpFFbziMMx3M7BW6jiwB5R5nDpUzl3K5zNqGBZNZpbpgGgtZDQEvXbdM0VpMuuYXavY+uK8lW47iI5YtJ1uogZ7CUKonZcg46uzVK2rmbBzxWgDhtQ6uBKKEBDaqIRyvSweXiKWcDOdK/BiMSW5W8ux21ApLfXuNQAoHl06WDLJDLG4qmczghsfLTLUshoaDqC0AXMbhGq2K9XkOmnOZSfoJYJEMD2UfpNJXMCoUQCwAKC2eGtIfAvhL+owbKLzTAA4wVpSXU/xtOSc47BUnHJpXgIj83WuCfQpqHmrN+k8bpLrcXCwejXwBa+UxLUSPQnrqxEbhqT1pMlgVpCpFX4bAbACfR/4/sOj63SgNDbFieS8lSM0FFSWvN70eiy+TFM/sB+d+hT5X0JkyxMPFgk+d/j507YS1SzZxoi8KuBWWYy55sLn4ctryAyLGNPLNSnFouP2kCOk8dhp6N46oHUyq2EOgKDuSiHEyBagN79kSXjchqZxMbqOslQyIJX0KoW5r5oFoD3A5pwO1FNSe4pVrC1cacq+IJhWq3KBI40q81VRUX0U9FyatV5OOKiRMNSG9LZyT34udDBEQ2bBFsech6T6CYZkr/gO6RBPz/LoYNC17T4CrmbfZHkmCqys4qCyh2c8+3DspaCDIlxqujgBuZfw1MIcUuvjfD2ZwMufVjDLDrgnIZTFkyVGiDoOSrJYfWnqVwsgWz4SYNsBeSZJq83jaA99Of2YFATVQHHjMu3U760DWqiYK6qpjhaO37JQrB7DWWZt3XqnzsD7MYxTsW3W/oNHGl7VjnIHitOCWiVoFFFpzYb1iKDKb0NtRFUdJzSyXlafJK1/BXXgnmwYKIK3g+KrWbYLfg/QySg7AEPpC4VXpHjVowJKSPcFo248Sw7+52vKYA+2lihOz8Hbv6t38HKpPsR38q4yZG/U8e3QqEF1xV4w7tB7I1gWeW5ul6ZcJ149fwmASucNOwZvxoBB50SlJsaVUD+HrrYK9ed6YFZCh/GbO/h164CWl3ajbyzru8sowwFtB8EjjY6odBZdJRCNIC/dEhb3MrimMjGZYTRHCFPr0UAJhnwICeCDhUC46ZWRgtHtxlRV3mQ8UOmybXDJW43Mn4ChxYo6U1CSV1I/mhqbXVE/fZznAxDOFqgJ9ag/J3AKKKKS4VjX1ciK49d4zuNArXuazrpO0GwdOANmKpcKpZ/+sR+q9Dr3E4pG+SCLKaZvQ5HIFx13Qh2ejtys0Jlha9pMnqiyOrAr9Yl91kGGWLhwWZVI/fXTJwGtnJAQJyGzhyGClggAACAASURBVO68tbDoday01fW3dH8vxhf665YCraqqjTfBBBRSzSw+VTjKnHrehupVK9BYrdEhVgCkXLJvN0WN1WTiQmWhCvCo8B42eDlR3zUM6xDgZDegoVJtIdi2SJc+4edxBUdYUckKSvQ6hD4Q4ghbflVxCfG/MLx6Ahzqir5uWlCSMtaWEbiOQ4nCt04cu3FuAycdlg4l9N7EkWmlHDsnMTbSO3Zhu5rNGquPRXVhCVDcdvcdsHK9jHuoNYQ2yQCIuJDsFL1FzJV41wjBcQgj/JVnTnmOetN+SeIS7NjvLQVaAbRDhRqeX0TNarKKQuDqnjxpnbNnGaagDlgkrVM9TahtE8FMEz0KSSywZPcaJFqWygD+Drxwl6UtgrP+BFQNn/odDKJ1stgiAe5pYQ9U1SklDUY5BoM/S60pCae8dAgNnoHavfhmjKlz6IyUBEqsFRJuS9svyGbxlWtA78Zz3OxAZWXMLcOKDoKr2II2nVigTaF263SrGMpIkEsgiiKU4pmmg4alM1zCWAYrM2SJNJ1RtiBSJzZFlROreOGp2cLxz7GmLAiPqhnvrC/+tftvdmM/txRoRSw6FYEWWFKyLLNXErQyTfjaTz3uVCMLaNfyk049Mkj90gqoEROaX9VHA7aEDYSIdBUfWCzPkZZBjLDAqAEt8K7i7HSGKSNHWs7SxD0nh4QrW2EQuDIf1FIemWmlYGVaGk5dhr7yGaUyGOhfvsIC+MH2qMTk7KyBZzgYdeCYmTmp5SRcclUG25oJU/FUVzFgde4pclGpNVVforYYDyXTWjqP8yUcO7eadTo3MgHpqU5rVEQtNcQKjxKqQvZ9mJ6GTcgGHaxMF0k0dHb0FcRN8L7Z1UXrrpe9DkXJVYOe+UCpv9CHtxRoRcUSWHKlAK58TY1WUEqhGIextclPfM7KqMJGR/J2ad/t8BFl1F96gIV/ailW4XalElIimBQ2WJQ4snbG6lDbdgITRPhcNXIkNoHfFICRd8IOKqQ0qqUEc/mV3Ij6irMSccX7ngoAxbUEXFTcuqgRqrR8dwWBRaky9KoFOdouqJMoXpFOyHpG7ILFUqA6Ek+rP8AWfwafl8qsQWeSkw+SgPpBdSmLzDEdu0IuB3r/wAoAWiJ26mhceM9uaxhwYUOgBZqoDzvi85la7JFmsbmKdRdG9eOz3GJqpo5K7sgBTEELVmSCopWG92WkS6JqjJDIUkw9VzAEHoeNKGgumnwyqnfeQ++wk+HWAS3vrWG2wxIPppUALUVDCJB3wS7DY6u+aBlWLByELlYP49ANnWMD45GkhATxFQpx43tFYsICSOqsdRI9Vv3qo3YOAPF611Ne5bL2ly+CUP3XbgQ9q9x86YzADJAcO37Vk7vqS6nFHwl/mzlfFfXKC0TVBIUvavQ04lT4ZeiOga7RxkcD3aYWO6z5SjGE9xBSmwhlHUAoau2LHFEDwitQd8N4HofFum3MctTTeqNqE5MzdFwmWqTqgkVIakTxkQQWQklTllaZPScQxvo1zsXNI0XZiXDrgJZ3V2HqF+agZoBXJ4BCRt1tFKuJNEtu/ukEEZj/vmPWltm6KAElkHQrSubNKfRwFBoTN50iR8yuqUHFqSYgQ+5pW3EGatefYsgWODSMK71rhfhJHxo160BZfYi8IsWtT6tM8TWG2eukH8eKf1VuSCWjhXIWj+vYEWZJs5+QV4BoN/UGK9tlpCqIp2fk6XCvicFOhw/mYDjyEGlIIBeghWHiwm7fbxni13lweGrGypMjLG/HhSkzjjKL0VozCXMan8SaFAB47dJFL55eSSUQC7GT4ZYCratr8FyYZthsu5IRugHQGABpANQ0z52104tzrMvfZ3Nj08zZo/LS2q1tAzNrUJoMhjdaLChWQFSIiS/hOtR2/zk1NuhnvBN3q5vcJn7MEviFja/QQJKrNQXsfObGve0P1KgCagx4dc+gbtus/kG+eTAV94MA6yLQ++oLHeifvP3QTwGVo1jXeYd1VjegwlJX7dIZk1BNUd9GAysvWJMMVLeZHLblIisWZiatjlNpVUgJD+P1g9O+f0Qk3wqkLaosbYzS0WyhWJzy82fgkeVM1fus/+7k12at7WSu18irzRKPJI7jUgKZFKm0itttwlfBFNoyg9Qin/2ZcVthabMU/FKCS+20tdFV33koQ3JlAf0kkrIoKRdhJrjjCNoohdMwUCUpPYh116kWPU5wMxXS14zTCwVPXwXSh+dvlNIquuoheLQJAAlp8d1PL5yLHov0orJDTdUBtDkWK8oHmJ7XOrYUHsVbCGcVeFnl3+nkbfHglOXZx2G9xpQvKeQkiB4+ZOuqU97QO4V4Yw7cToJ2kbFOZ5WZMYFW7+JPvlAN3Nz712mdm5vRjaS2Xlm3VBnHEdQqHBk162MgR1nLwMOeY11+bmgUryz8HjjMTBj8GcOdGk5hELhwFWgf4MRoQFGFAC343MHxPzzGk1Q9DZVi+EQ888bwBLf5EgDU6tJjOhXSdCnpOLUeiO9g8pIJYOGj24GnVewbq3pR/uBlkWcdRTzKr/Lsv7Wf60TUV74aGmhMMqi0cMvsrpDE86QY7mXQXuFPEy4d1rQ17jmCHQXx6XgZsU7IsdnbDzP7GCwKeMPwjtSJGASxCvL7W1tasgXc/Wvw8jiKt4PhxmruC10gKlyg6jAZkMRmU+4Mc1AF7cslOHRZHaqKXxqZYnjLoDds2ei+CVvKsmEG6OxJtyoQiY5S+UH7RYoAbHj9MmaGmPvBw6WgGhXxB0QNtCTQCc0AwTjANzOMQpFcrTTwzko5hfZBnyQ6y6wsYGjhiHzlF5fEGXLFXdAp+p8MlF0frTJIy8iGsiR5nyRDbapbgk3lXUlD9rQM1iH9/m+adGU/oVqR03tNTcuWwg14KANv7E7yBCJpDhrkIdDqvZvwpllUUgm8P7apkyzgVB32OM+Jn8UlkhzyLWcKWGwd8pmxNBoYeqw1Ed5GS0O2NDGKnpc5SMqmTVE00+gjEI+3s00bnmc5DqwaOgRlu+PAfUlNE0WBFASdOnPeSTzIpFhS0MDDX569t9bRDuQ0VOEvSw2THb+NITxtNZaCFKeLNjdxyMYXEM6gy3Cw3mg+QyVKSDW3eGa0fNEu4D1luj1Nw9dtBRUaVgbEBUSOX6iIAEnDRFDadmKIZ7VTYlw2UkctdrrJ6l/KKWuwNLasAsKZOn4CWB1bbbBNKBROLEh4infyTqS3IwBAt/5KVO3CijrS3baYmqejYenVlW8GZgGJpmfd8QdnU5gpDkdoPrD57aCySrNxibpehHClxZx1OscQ7Incldaxy8hQXnUi7blbLJe9LFopkUWX3cP3WBfDb6BPvLQtQSJXDs/agen98Llz2B0ItHr3lo3jcfH04SPWObnEVlEIveSHlS1lw/sM5a9ncZc0X7HTz5+1FdSG+9Hu7HR4SUGrlw3DJUMO/Kyt41zNNzi+shrS6AkX0BIkZibw+AeRY3jrwYs1D0xa4/RnLI9/ztifq7QO4sFEo2hFB4NhdCM4afWD88hXJu9oUUypvDo0vLpRgBDxAbQA+7WP/XMaWL61wsDfT9l6H76wNbVtzyFanmYv2kcBv450AsA3cxp4DBOrX37wr+0d4+c9N3nAUYcZDEE5RyficuD76Vzgp8OoEtUwehH1JWh5esIdjXBTnSozZacR1kpHD7NHGobnjEwr8PL7qSuZcyJnuepriY6Qh0pHLCQF+7APGNHQEVOyG0YwrM1dsBa8rY2ODxZrR45fUvYgBqwobr1WsR6UNoItiKQxoM4DsWIIpGWWcRJcxJt3HoqmLT/lHin7wH3QWAEJfDoIJI5oxonKp43kcVGO6aJlZnDUgFBgUSYJZIqnfMMMUx8SaA/UICR2RdCzzn6AZx0rgl/TIQ19Ix9BnZ4U4vrzIaXwrTcY/HAKiOKwoYeOL/Ar7kFpqpOmqS893waUbeSCXF2S/ebzrh/Ts9TFWiJvy/sP2vA9d+HDC20CCdSxpc3COmh0wmzehmembW6EWTJYhIgOJD23vDd6x8ZeoQubk0dXW8P7j/dFpb2DYUvz7GDOZBULKC0pwEVh6bmRXPT4PYDB0BNsQs3mxidsCP+pwawQG1CqK3PokCWmcWkJKRAI1XYBBCTAcRvfXhmGyzSghSZBaSVMKHGG8n5cPSfA6zcJX6fN7BTFWUp+FdRYbnsqkuZ31VTx8Y3/ygvO5vMcbqSh9OKPrpMn5ROTw5fOiEnHopP5e/JL5XinlgNodXLGf5YjAa4K++4yu+WpKQ5Pa+SReaIc7C2zh+8wuz8m2X+hznS5bDfkWlTig2bRZFxTGBpn1hHWRz2CjqZOo2VJ0mOnYKt6sFjDa8tWP/kshkshD5Vyp8JLClq9pKhtHf2hOy9GgND0qrxPyH+BGkiuKZvwcOXpGVyyFxj2qEdYSvlBSLEnV3VmzCljmwp3Pa8qkY+on6CYoRHS7EsrP1mitD6Ukq+InlPaPhgcpFBZtZMa+lYJ6jDbBYcxhRY3H7wwMuXLy3UBolZ3uGjff1DvKV9k2r/BDh+0sTvvIB579uLavkX95NEaeDa8uyZ2Mhjar98Gv8sOleIN5FJUtdKBndCyIlHaYZ6vPHkCdRl873YF/AJee8lBqwqtyz8qlSJDjIx0VQgMsTdsgakBNUkfOAAjACUEfE4xeaKkCjwwDeiZWkQXq0WECjJFROiFmgJYJbAmMzw9J6oKxoVpfvtMgR5xoIqSuN9Wv/J5ftHwPe2d+wIf9Rbl24PlueLXa4Br8EQJeHjvOK5TCpBQPfm1frF0VefqZKKS0prUAVe3iqslXg6CuMli0Vmdx6UORu+5k30W8Eqzgsab1cXrCL5ayqMpc9FxrzsJV4dmxF9Rh9QJlFZ2HZ6GptW5PUx99y5eZisomZHubHgJBTGajJrvoLBu4ItLFR2tsKo1yYcbPchpMgLMCF2XWQ6enj3skrNmebjDbBd7F4pyHn3AKh/6FOA8b508a/RrY6TJZAQL+hLwXzIkH1o5w7op/FOx5X3Uw0wPMAi4ssyH+4VqKz3pNJnWZNl0hCFMR0t9RPEVB+D70C7yvG1goeEh9Bd5sTTbRvDOoA7TXYcLr6AugyqKn3ZeWQgcCC02vZODOHU66ao12ki95TD3DLhOPvIUWaCeWpSvkW7YSKPESlzMMiO0Byo3GWpY76Giy9cKeC6fxHZ2WvhkzWeLd8aOowGLgEZGtsRpekA9i8CFKu5AYZ9dGCvY6Ool8hZQ0+RFGSiXZAxR8hyArZ5HEEXWcCrA5ZjtUv2KXjiVGHi3m3H4EoI2FL8tG1moZxIlfQo3Qx1sDBIsbpaKJdFBOu3kbGlo2oqTU1QCkwlqQCptiEquUTPJqVnr7L/bspdYl6/NQXi6zbLnLr4RUoC3BR+XX7tgS9jVzqRHaYB1AITllCgdjQdt4hoOmFE7teFpe7JqAsgy3xMwrh/6aGNfg//1P0/bG15d8rVUg0N6oI8CJ3QML49nP/xxu++Rj1shd9kV+y1MBX0/BcqhuMDRqd4QIGwwiQKyuaCC8GEoD8DVmeKyVB1xf516aOFdp4R2Y7miTk2HRUNAdAI9DT9eaZaVV0aHLYFrozIjWgt2oUgdaJlSC8+JIiAZVjGU0YE3UDHOpkfsqfGi3U8HS9MWDeolzyiCSoFKo3MSfwTDpuWnnzZ77auVUSimgMuhasYnQ/xIN29eeMlB28DqSL0ywkNfooqDDrqnNkzWXwIQ1dFjtkZHbbKIrhBdpd/pkzMwx0JHdqY5ut+GTst9Ek0EmJsp/AkA1mxdPBnCiYZZhD3xz2p+haCZCMeiDlKe+woBQBKYiHDvRr4TqIVGWJY+Oco0ASCKtSJ6VmBVa7owxCTBepHl56l1/CewyznLWlsJpHSGbafolEJO6uRVR1MOKkfQ28bphF9PU8lSbj2n8ksv3MHQu1XBtFN5ghxROnWgDhRVm6V0cH2aQVOwdvqsDQ8PWw1CoQWPQ1nVpMqgRAnIBxmMZnLFEiow7gHuSDyIujNxtLQshb661KpY9fQpeF/sbFFBKlu3xaAN1AnkppSfmx40Yr1kQdOuDWwzVYgkPq7StbDuX5K6wCsjkDU2T7ZDGCS6/hQgQyHEukqwkmZB0m7tnsMsgcbEDjdGLRTkLSq0qYpTLfJcGjUajK+/p1aZqpNo8xCv0MFapaYFGi+Q2uiGAgl4WVUmyrzNR9fdhZHKTZoCI+MF7xd+3a7Xr0kLQhyuK/vNLhbAyusOBMXgw79c2QtvCVigHiovuYhS0I9mDMX3dhBsW+NDLPas2jpbrUY5fKNp1pEhP81snZYpac5NVF9sizpCamyUiWB1em2EgiaHilPKDbUFbEIJHc44ai/t3+al8UKoPKG84V29KDf1S3jZ0RAoT8jShSNUXV4h9NYkHr87Pu8tCgPvBN9XZoamhUV9l16tZSMiLfrTZhpJ8XsCxPS4rR++DcMY2AIqtie+C3R24Us11KdgDRKkL7sCVaRCwGpodFErza7T2jSwqp82AfSSuF3t5Fe2+/Kmgi3hHono3bb7qEXd/pZoaldRXQ/KOA4CC50GLt2ppIqj1RcKm7HUkfvPct3vctO7n/KnLrXqw3e1cRgBOMWHZ6cWLLNv1i6ePGkdVtWKcMp7YsTIkBZZ5F91p/S1SoHatWh4iM7Py4FgqQwFRk0uSLereCmmhHM4p2tevMh9KDAfgd2zHnw3vcRNDDsOWr1+CEi74mepPKmhuoCqB4sgXguJCNZVwgfbxmMPkJiexOIeOgAl0S43NG8fHFBRVTC84ur9d2EjCn+A+ZwcJmcZsvFEREwEH4ygu1BaBzvZawhzUChz/dMA/Dh7ALo2wHIT6/nmJwX6+6V2wKkhBdo0hjJUglNXCWLCrNgjmCPLjI/amSeesp5W3eKsusfiR616TktDQIUAee8I6liqhxRrxlqAliddYyDSnYYYpNrUM9RXrEsS9Vr1mTM8oBFCYnIISoPq59mbH3YctF6LqhRCHX5WPVSEqqqVs7xmS279EAicyOBmMikhQQIEs2CqEi30k52rUyV+tQAPPZitHWEZNI2ivQYieDv2emOpCpWmOXcockezPz78ixpynY9TfQdsHwBQWhVNhOfzD3rypQgqrGpR78W7q0MCP+lWxacLvWJ5MqzGrdFxV07jd3a5ZosY22uUSoFs6XkFuJinFSjE5kRZwKoThFLtwRbBkmldXlLTjRAId5/PLGL11HnUEaw2oeLCtAa3KYbLkBze7LCzoOVF3LUQbyOetMca/AYVOo9Bx+gFvE4z/MjAoz0U1iAlGO4X9s/i4LgPCKlcvCsH4EErkHZBJxQ4zQK9hXuPUnEM6diM1nINLJygOVCMbrppY2WZJ6KLdH4R43HYDzU22Tm1EfZltigVmXSTci2qXPs5X7felZSKGGM9ZhGueAhgeEfx1qT8nMjPgm94x4Puw0v5UR+ikIHkhebxcqin8VEa4tU1CyZVVFuuTuHjuxj6tGCfpphVrOLeKYOhRdSrWK2ElF9msuDgATu+cNamyxfw+4v376efQ9UolqTNvgqss0O6wk7J370LSLOsfFicxCg8NQ0RQCtDXuKLG9kGtQi7hdwhA3xtRlJ8nv2Iq/OuY9deECqvF/SGak+RP7+ws6ClbGpQ4a7D9KrW5sM4wp82LA1odQx+aQiAqOuY5ZWZBx8V2VVjgizNeikNOeloAlZtxKwunWFUPMdSnBZxIphMCWPozhF8eQ4NQprlJuLDBC5SARyhoqh7rolSiXsVVYqhp2uKe4Nha0TlQ35XB11TCfgWWOMIg8fxte1+eUDAVZllqRYMfKR1gCrCu5cYvVpM1Wq6VXKBliqlKtjOTk3Y+UsXbBx/B6PUR5192KrYxYoba0BFNTmhupcWokHda8PA/MiYladYoUu9SIerummj8Uig9yUKvRz9Lu+YWb5o5YvnHMAZ1aXuqRrjqtzuPV7EtR0HrTChTJsMVWLcM9RafpF5bGZoGnjXFsOfkz6Qnl2h8tP7R71xIQKADt5UFl58GM8ANeIClZSC72pWV+3S59jUmc00LMVz/DhmvJGZ4nQhrk+pyIXLVL5AzBFDoQ+NUNd4u6XPu06V4E4G8gsUnUw51hZTvpqAE00oKIgtkE67WWT0gHVooMseLrDiGHBmmDmr4XBOQpj4Wk1UqA7As9scS7NzEC+Py3fstwp675RLm55sqDuek58J1VeXWbXmk896hQunIgTiUsRHfyHCzoKWdxBclGkdY2/qyrWRaXq9VuG25YadV5WeUDeX2dcqtX/CK0AuKbVDYRfGv8dHvJtke/FkqsXq6pI1sDxaF/9q7HnF9Y74X/LSgNVjzX8K6qxqlCCnG6JYCk73dKzLivA/FESrSYIvTyJOR+n28/kfSvYaD3le/U4HkwFoeS9Gr6Dz5YSXE+uhYb+JfnZx8bKlWIKfx8sjahYbY3TrnjnjvKv26FV9CmwySBL19lqkDruvuMMWM2wkyHH8GhuvBrAlsCVx9JE48Tw64oqXlhbkecDLJ37Gb9ykr50FrQrNG/cY1lt9ShshKEVPPwsAARRDmvqnNz/ouTy9zwpjw9QAsOKWN5TYA0CrpS6qRglvETxYA6V61MIDCreamtUinrtI4kGl2mXJjRyreYVDHTQM+jG/qlhR7fiX03CmeHyuH3hOWiHKqIkFiuUsitgULnmhk3TGLB9YQi/zZnpKezP9QDmDoLnR2KovwOml1UWiD05eqKQhFcrBO6ac/9TUNJ0WYSnJXHW9lLcFltJPq0cSWcbeJfjaAh29ip5crITMk7y+AHsaeaPOAkhFL87M2vw4GwIw8qlDqizyrCMPjFIJysIuQsWYOXfB2nNzrjKQYC2hV+LaFyIo/Z0N9MyaPO/RuJop1crRJPvepiAVKfSGPZbWNBmWkqis5lkOcow9bntMk6q9pLrRGq02qh1RadWKKlI2BOLNMnSGRcC6DnsxCkLklCLC7E4K8y6KdBmD6BmlJRiIOqnBlZQ+quhB90NceoEQnkxgqvfjv3iZHbxxzqbE+2FkLGlT40mb3Ze2Q/tTdvgwI8C6RgwcG7P8RVDBDCWOfgO/lJoMNtgCUvDRgt4hZyEdLWYkPZ9U0LtgLyA5tVlgendu2W4DYKoobVWSalTY8xa/aCwfTwJI6W21dZOQOkz9VaSHpK1GWLG7cHDWmqsXPI5XVL+k3nnIx5cd4eyvcf6iRXfegUCmegwjoZK82WFHQav2VKNq2s8DFvPrc6s2CU/rTlCwKqpjA1vjk8I1e42VoUXaVDabalqvU3p5WzM5DP1CXRIdrRslF7UcxGwFarvKCgh533Y+FWBodk2O7eS8wgtARXtjqzz8uS8EyqUO4TNiKuQN1bbeiDToCGsnMLCm0wyGeTreswDKZ+a40R2fZ2HmuL229LX2VZMn7WsKx20f3rq19kw75rxQUG5eNA5UbnU6AVgXNSC0HbQqujon76L1alCGCvpvrR0r0oGVRlPLc1hSnmGKfAVeX/yqNATqQBJHh3Bhs8hSJ3xUw2ixuuHQbVb9zCchBMpXgcohP203EMgJQrWoMxsWVpkgmk0W0QpBRIjsA9UN1aUnfENfL1xTN5TMjUfS2qtOhSlbfud5qxz6Qk0cpPFALZ11CqY/0xmyc8yNj4wWoQoYJAI451HJpkHvl5pQtqFJdifsYRElYaqShRrg+gf4YBzD2iX0XRnXAw/hTLtnUytz7rsqycLFLMBWekKbLKhobj7qGBIDpe4KraMG0hDp3m443j6EZmSJ2lUhNKhSVqvxgWWoryTto8sz9rFT++3do6+2t+87Z/96+lG7L38KCinfXZSL4HnrC/7SKSsooeZ8mJYTDm1MAj/EPX55/xR1lIE9iRiptDZO625z6PPqUckadx+22/76PL46WGeWRqhiN8t2qmjjZTovS/ar2GqI+jvPT72UsU/IofZTjrJjSO3fB6Dz+FCr2lSZdmIklLYiBUVu0m5N8kMLjAbojNUXVqyxj70cUKf1UDWapuH9/fVWNyeEGro5ad1QKi0sg7RSQYr/AsN88ziNRXvKjsA9FqIJSDcztsa89/T4GKotKazhRWlAb0MZYfCAbw8ElagBQOl31+ERtDiR/Tmg1NAapGPNQAZeEOMZ5seZg4CV0BXxJoIUMKVRxNHCBHJOuttUsGK8+EAqlA2yDjoAItZS642M/d6zd9k3/dM324+e/Wa7yOJL37NW9eFdSGCnnF4AHetUv5RXQzC/0nurzKJ0kfSuugfw5b03y5RgK1+yY9/2TnvF274Rd568N5RfbJhGFHlFzCKgqt55yutCrFQDKp3GyEbmotIiaAPCKp8IkLpncUYGtYe0EK7vxugnCzi1J8Pl8qKVNZupUUsEYJv61Gu8mLCjoPUmQABr8VLVPDvRPHfOsk+fwDieSqeHayVtQ8w9w9PaRNFKeexfaYw2G3i4nwHeVOv6pfYS+GtoINYBrqzpK2gOtFBvBPvSNnrEaqULb6y9bQPFkPCnaU6VQcY0al4F4cExwbfbB4gXdOrrt7+gX4IbwwisS9J++8Q99s2Pf6t9cOU1zi5QjIDPbUrg9cizPjMIogUgfeS23ne3BGjqwBn2MEtik5G//Q67+zu/3ZJ3voqFj6gZ8Z5u2CprWbkIgguMoR87qHVBhMR5fNqqUMja5X1jrPLF6o4l/DV04D3sDqTpaWG5FrErD9unWHX+Ivu/ncVx8xppizQwdH4Bwo6CVuWXN+oES7WdzuG+cxwJNqEl1EzfSqLXRm/ankjueSJJplSaLI20HEfDpBrHgct1N9pg0kCCV/fMBYa0lg1pRoyK7Nz1KiiG5s31ijzH8Imk4lVIk0Bd/DB8kaZTM645IDgfDDptAqyoBumGN9HzHlM6Iv9wSqM7AceQP1oixhJkqqzCcv2qEGceZ0RcwDtfLtj3PP4WbdBvYAAAIABJREFU+7XLb/FyCNRxjLhrbSbVL2z/gupGzpRDg6qjUgewB6n77gFYmHUyxD/Elko1OrKmbHkRQMmkguqEupQxuvqqZgzFK3s9MPqoe+ew/ygf3IcArA1ZsN1ltNAWAaLKSdpyDJ+3DbZ7Gitftn1/8VHLnzvLqyOX9NPZLPPNOdpRnlazWR1Am8UhhOGhpPfU05i3sU4JsiI36nLmKwuiFdZqRftm8EOAcTZChIakuBKVhgZ4TSgkGJ96UO5l9vVKnwW04hNgT4u3w8P9Lz9g87/8E2zhxGJJta+Wh9CoHvp849YqVB4KonLqEPHKBXWGb5o9Y4dya/4ZR1AcZneb1daonXjTV9htrzyIngvQ0EjL7CE2t9iy58+17KnjDTvztKbqYD0YcnvshxzCJhQ3wcg1sQ3A7Wc+/TprP5S279v/5wz7Abjq0EJwXEYduKaDwor3pLD4nwVIFEIevKWHa2BvkDx6hPvwqWQ89frX2OF3vMNO/v5vYstL3YqlQLcaaQRiExaVXwBWfHdQ3U+Xoc2SswfsImv0pjHEj5ps68oUe4qR0E081+atwVK9CenPP3nczt73hJXue4WVXG6gLBuF7r/+i/zZcdA2qIBOtmD5k6hHyss0FMu72QGxk8ApBSDM48nvDEbJhdEJrOVZqkxF+np8alQNKKFL891CYh0WIQkQl5hGLGmfBnQ9KHxs9i1fapkHXmmZh45Z49wj0ByALrCjkUAPTuNcvxbJgo4C0DhQE85kluzdd7wfzzIoi2SXgIumVGrZFhtHLHnkS+3eY6y56k9Jg00fVmU/W8Xl0LlLLfvUE1X7078q2+lHALAo2ojyF0K2C4AUZvLnnn7IjmQW7YGJ5z2Sl5gvlc2DysiJn1Mvej/4LmebpXdV124iyI7dcchtCmRHzPSj3f/Ob7Xnnn7cqk89ageo68waDIL8AecQWJUeaWjNXlHWddRx0D83bHh8nz0zVbSpi5fYCYe6YQatjtvPqA6jjp5WI+Ca2ufuIzb14Ku4BhFybYpK7qUP5b4J32E0uQkJ3UgSWhmQGsLFJC+T+MwZTAERxBhWRB5VyTLISMnR3EjWhnOsvNXL0hbia9VAGtREXUAUlYk9AVZIw1iADQMYsRhJeNnM0LDNfuXrMebAj8TDD7smQIYpasYuKiGpt8QfO+W6RqHdW6KjIVBcVbk6Q439txrsydVEw9GCZ5T7fAl3Laisf5DemxzXYVe0By/tbkdvy9i/fseo/er/MWM/+iuzNvk6CoZfkmsFb17NpSJY/uSp19u55jidjncXKq4IOhcV7tcLgOnA67v1GxSOrm3RJIbxLL1H2QAxUC1jisj5l3/nd6EOg0oy3KfQwNSWV92UUbYcvrs6s5PLbIu1jqcarSxpMtoNZYZs5ciM+CScLkOJ2fExQhYpwlLUYRdydbQJr3+zDf3If8Ifxf2en4PVX+iKgr/okx0FrYxXEsMTdggBqnXmcVgD0bExeFBtIFfHw7QWMpZtZWjSEkVUXlTWfA6LJAlnPKshS3sjpPI5ttccovePoXMsABi2XkqdZWHkihVe89VWvOuYV0zjvmPWnbgdYxooEK7XtWK3BiA6DO9dhnzn4xhG1cAtJGI5+eiSvoZo8QgCgAtnwod6DKEDBYmw3G3I5xd/RWahehzL75UkbWHdKaDHhkfnOW3snEU3+vY3jduPfHvZvvEVp5UQMdSiV7aqQOgBVuHiQtF+5/KDgBYwKp4SB5z8MzIxFItqc1kdsQz1m11hKhtTwV5mHeKHx/LZ2zBJxHYD5rJJ+ah99Xebxu/BA//TO+08KrBia8UyzzxD3SCYQRzkPlXL+BPMlPWgwHJrX2TpTXasZIdvP2pnMKJpsblgcR1WhFGuDPVeePirLPoPP2Qj3/X9ZgdvF4fmxEWzZVvfL7zci/veUfZA2p5xPtHstOW/+S12+Q//yPbN0aC0nyy7OhjMRBi89ABlBr5suIouFpC18HQiRxQpVFmSSjVHoKnE9dVlWIOqLT113B4o0+VZBDnztV9NWgCL08IIVObuu611+SlgKUrbF8Q0lBIELrW6/wgsomai5NcNgg9pwSb4IzS0QLQ1eNobF0M+LSZPsmz5+V8OfszuZufEd508JhhtxLrqAF7mkbP77B0osPdv3IzjwxJwTWf61ViVg6fdWO3Au+Qx64zyrN3iT4JnGF0Y0QDwPf/zt7Af8Ket/bEnLHoen2FUTYIJmpwIBIJsUsOENAPUd4qOvMzp2KGDtgQvvFRFl869LuxX4a1vtkPHXuVERiOjOq4IDI9tFo7Dmxl2FLTeQBrGMGkb/5q3Wn72sC39f++3HBsPl6SewXW69rjKs0JRH39rBDT5QqhT0TpXZTiuNBTSSHlm1UoN9I1zwPJ191r+ofvQUDIc8tEGIen7jlr546pMqCY8sCRaoVRA9eAH8Un/2g3+6CmxKfr4sHyt5yizstEbJJjQ0PH3HPgr+2xj1D7w3GGYdtGmbQK9fH0hbXPrWbtHIr3DM8TTqdS+otf6+G48GD4IK1pRII+J+Un8bGnWAP5aDIPuKWhVXhdrr9d+//fbyc5vIyw+z55rdTa8HnEqKZrsfD/piR3TEv8O5c4WWMlw/71WZbOWide+1rIIW8Y1drvwjqE+L0C5oksknauhlPzcxLCjoFVvl18I7f2h1Qn5Vx6zLB5PGh/9qK1/6COWRm9bgTfVtK12jVlg6FlliBllCI/go6RlUFADaQqxhdAg95SrCAK1N7/B7vr2b2YYw50P9aWoaqouPqtaRXZ5qeORUWwCncbZAq9QFYTGdOB60p/31xWsppKLkaGU+unGl9VpwRIAkF+Dpn3HgUftA+cOXDdP2Q4sANqwEcmWqP2EvQy89AZ153qPlcwFgdaDZsi4qIgUQJO5Mksq3H63PfiTP2yznzlhF7BFxqEXvnzx5wtBUIfQtHZSmhyIzD7YsLGpMTvwH77H8jj7QAtMPVPDalTiqeM4o6UyqXuSl3QhSudmhx0FrdozARi1B5gopszhEsURy7z96yz6sjdY5unnbfnJTzDtOoWQlUPQYV0XvT2JQlzimobkhNQ4mjQoFG0WA+UCvO2XvvWtNjy7H/9UBRpFPg2oMLESEkgO7LMIazE7gz9YHFQISBtGMWpDnfd/vXId7ar0UN1qA5U7DoGA6AG9iyubnMrqgmPUv4gd/8YP+iXeV+nz36QjHs2ft/3DNbu4XIQgiTJtFzDRZO8USfGeqeBB2rKrUGdTRxDDopUgYlhVr11MDXuALDsxDnCoZ//oLUiDEzlQlo8DaQDaCMZjX/awTZG92Kc25o0NVGDKQ6BNAdg0o16HTuBtRioiCp4u70JVs7eFc9w8o3dTORl9VCYyU97K+WaGnQUtL5UBVHXGNlnB62XVKbVXVmMU4ev10zb72nsxkoFKQJLlGaXBkpEhhIAGui+vAAlkaCHcO7aGPqpE1YTYQHx0lORBFoBDnYLKZcgrzczY+vPHYSfCMCyrsPDUi69KsvR81cg32jwhbwCBcn8KYegi/l+3D6G564wQ8f4PvKXnp9/NQDwhidFHPKg6ZQJDogj7DZRsFmb/9Vz8RDgQ/6smUEiqE8BqZQB7pti/GG55fnUuCSxa3aB6FRKhCdjshmse1VWO5KP8aS3FvzIlj/Wiv3YUtP6ifGWpXF6ZRYyAF+BleHN5fMFBCpJw2IElw9x3G9NCITXK5dmVJbyrqltPx1xgrHxPUVFactPDOKbMMwUNXbAU7RyeVPYd9NUOMszxfkIiqswXW6FBW0BioCHAIJTx+t8S49SochufZlgW932tEKjo6JB0pmSDGq1P01R9Hvw9+HJK7DwtJ9yLEJi6+DYQRVTwd9UX9aL6qzMSqUqzisA1dmfytL2a/ZU2M1CdycWqax/oFFInKqkklFp6bxkUaT5DHLVqgtt+ndtE4nOTw86ClsKLAnoL8NMXtcIpb5rXPSzrZTCFFR2UCDM5iVQDL+6VxX0Fr1aNWQR/ETZn0/DLWr6QJjWKjxRbvecBKDcTAq1LuFLCEATEiyKhifJEVLnxzuRSsDtJgvLEPKLnoxktDdEa/hwJDKFqfvELXBPR90baJGfcV1JKzw/YUK6Om3v01EiDOVQgj9fuhF+Fpbkma6AcsA3GRVITv7JZVG1dn4hhrh+1lNR3GfadaGEXq31uh2pLWMrVLNfI2srBnNWHUQ2StazitIGehnJRR9XVhu2VEEZdoHLlBfyfA369ofzQQei8gV/v17WOdUf1QVATwbz1j/T8xiEHNzeoyC9p0Lv5u/YrzKVwvXH/XL37WkF34o/H6UfVS/mh1xxsyNQkrYZeFUW5ACdq1Y96raQ/j+uh0WKAX//BQCmTjDDlTsnec5aZo5gUbvsgpUR7P1PCiQk88CZLE0rfz5knA0+rbUvVcWQZl56YsCwC6LXCZh35414f160T3exHGDjcuBhfi3+vle/NuP6Sg/ZmvMT10lAlZkdGrDuW9720gu0C9b+FIg6mkWUKKXYtNHh9u+MNsAYEbRflimspKFMDQeknLn6NPXqaGSYpr68VGHOPzJZtMqM9wXiTLVGl9nLw8auZLHV4XZMVW3rfLHwtwpYGA9LXR2EvNPheeIfQGtt8q6E0eqVGAS2zZynN4mhKmIsCswfuiw8T+HRNdlJ/ufxqO1+fwkYUm1R0ThHkSxZNMVvjbEH/4U3seyob6FDeG/c4kU1ChlmxpVpkP/C5t9h7n72H+X6RWcXcGlSSUMJvPXgctiCQY+WgRIMxD+XlWLYYAqvUgOJWZIPQQNK3/fuRzQKIlbrkeU1lb7z31ix30fmO87Q7XTfOCKAmszEWjlyEN9S8Ksb+YiPF321tRKnJ3n3yITvTHLJv3H/O3jp+0o4Vz9lkcpm42I+i6UDo33iuD9VwLpUPwNpgP0jfZ/EA1iLmin/5gRX7jfcmrHpmimGfAmwbAuvSQ3vyFYfO25tHP4d24dU27L3Ak1cXc/A6O8mh2HoJpG40A8C7Q3DyE7iS6tNVsRWyXQg857aZ7qqLexu0jki+pMqB0kYnz6OHRApjdmOTP9zSXjRuljG2sp639z1zl70vcaftG6/Ya0cW7LXDl+xo4bLdmTyHGSQ78QCGJAhmup8gqiZkIfAAIGaZbWm1Y6fONO3v/qlmj3ykYmv/BKBKxLmWhsuLAiQR5SfGKvYjt33Eqayc7SllHzY8ztVfMdsj3XcXt5tVpm/bKo/3oyu61tUP77Irexq03tD6QrRPDGM40nzWbWoT8JQ+3F+jsXpiDCXRaCscwsW1gv3J4hH7EzvC7FDbRgoN21+o2v4U9hJ/M2pTOHSTzzAhpMuQvLjcsdPnmnbxHBL+aQxbcGjcLYGecSFIHwUvXTgc/EbUz5fq9kv3PGJ355+3U13KLdZEY/81gqckPS1Bo4dWiTZlO6BLOo+DIsbZx9d24e+eBq0sr1gZAmaxcho/zO8fWgoNQrpUZLgMVv4BOoBKQyjgcJq2BR/SqfqCKRpYXOFSNWfL+Md6EnYgcZwrnfkBNARkoIKFooMQWJGug1XoCLltIsc1n/2rpFWP7OD0mr377kfs1aWnMXvEMAWWxCk4aNT0rxQiYlNUYnn7FhfeRJgrMdsnxX+jgA0G6q8kxjmOdS8OI4ufgOBQPBVm14Y9DVoRGTctpJkzzA4l0Y26pRcNrzb00Xyj6WISJHuw6wWxFoS+1K/VCDHvGJ6K03mhNDQF3B/2faOOnn3D0efsBw4+YgfTc0xh52A/whRKWAt2vfS4pw4nYQyJr6MdZ1hG7wWlOCqRW385z/0C6eyC23setAFhzILj9COpZc1QJA2hmKMCWshO/xN4XAlBUGektKgKeDXboSWpTp5uZmv2OWpfTmB278yifc/Bx+1rxz4NRdQWVNgXq8epeN65RB4D+PzgOl8CeBI75Nrly322guf6AqKn0gfxdZK45W/tbdDSWLI0ktlGklUOsm5KYQyiodXVWIy1optOiYir6co0gP2vd/6NfXTmbvvQ8gF7cnXUqmW0D2p4ieuxyO6UVk8OhgCucMVT5bAfB2EqEVxdua+GVKFlb5iZt2+ZedLeCCtQYmOTFlPXcmfkU7b9rPwYCirGxXFMJ3P67MMEb8I973y8iwxcpCOQa6TmpXNu5olFEkWQkKh7oSxbSz34BrvheE+DVuO8NrzTX4SlkhxPJFknps0uBmaGvZ0EhDB1mbB7C6fslUOn7Ttmcna+OWXPVGfs0cp++2x53E5Xi3apgmQuN+MCWJMOgEHL1cFT9FUDzLxacjSyfSxWnBzr2ZetfdK+Mf2M3Z5hu6MkjvfYhafBMvgrgvOgQi6dyQEa7saTGTFw9Rtf8xggO8NEQ7TIPmHYWginAruCxoy9ELbU1F54pYF3oM21UEUA1bJyd3+EIfhGKw5GBRiB5vIMGxm3cT4hOn04e9HuyJ1n6MakEulqiW3v1zHevtQs2snukD0xc5+lbn8F+aACY92YUALOfGgfHkrYON5DpiZTNjONGovdb9YvrVj6dx+zu9cXmBkr8MlhC3Bt2kd3c2dvKtsgHR8ouh86xRVPS5ATjjzLgFq44FTw99JI4md0oP7vbv3Z26B1KqumgRrJGR2tFuHcQ15m5MZD17XOSrs0So7XiC8uQBqCACOtAAirAIKRQI81/mtMq9btTqZWH0BHe9tD03bHN7GspTcPGFDfu4QfUAt76VRQhioYaLlJ5Rr35dUx+O5SR2F479vuboIo5M4jlJn7zOJpcFd5FeLSOZX1M65IEKM80tRFWALlcbChra0UVI7w/OazfmOXfsUjxy4t/vWLLesm4OGArMLTRuhnx9fxgI0JGYt6AJQ2FMERBRvHZWjZLIsNtTGJdnSRyaTvKQAoHCoY6WqD6V6brYxAdw1hSStZO6iWyiz76WL4L3ucKkt/wiesyoUbgXIDHL7cThsmtYuqSgxKmMViwoG8r/gAQHcgTawcK4i1pkv7RriXHTqc+FM51dNIUEdboCXjOWyPO1rZzHGSvJqjqMtkh0vhZT8sgMtQx1cwXL/abvm7exq0ofb7gyJ8nshQD3VQWtNVNOJGCIQtnAIK3ZEU7qaIG5GuPhBVFj95BU95dTS/4i6GxIK4DWOI5CsoBvO+xrO9PsV06AmFKuFA8cNjSig0J1auOENnPRdukpzMDqarQu/ysKfZA+cw+91Sy51pQVwVsUs3lEhNt9nuALWPAwljDkIXhEKcIKBd3dK67u4u+w9vpsdzDq7NZ9zxBTlqCbyEQ3Ulfm4goHcVaImrIoWy6eHB3JSMzpWq9CVoEIZGWJAIdYe92HRvfEMZKrFbOuxpSqt2FTVTSPq6J0wOq1BaSdUgQHfij+J4TJ7pMwQcaBjmqtIBhE59FSuuNV0Xw9gP/nz/OMQXiEjGQaoB2k82AB1m4HTxGsFR2mcV+vlslmczt0A8KbWyIxMYCUvgLVHGQWEKOKQf8r9GXrvoclz9u6jIn19R5Q9XQT6/elj5p7SjIe4tZRkVhxBDZ1zkX9yiPtuGzcjclpAUgLk1rlxdOivADQFYmNOjLkR5R9KF7fOIO4JnpfKow+g9BqPrmlL0SP7VLwJlYgWt4aGnDhPdgtqGMBinf2mX/uxt0IInMQJqrlZVri2hsExv9vCeEgMqblAHBScCm3aLFNlysFyBFMXmOsO1A8aFKgEqkLjYzjVOy6liyCCsTVNJ1Fv4dOGvXUOG0HdFEDgFSKHcqausxhgV+pQ2jqt38qhKUycDQXvuasOUJuVqoOIbxPpAtF17uLdBS2vF6iFtDBfhh8sALM5rAQ20VLiQcOYSlcCkvRyClkDg9OCAHGxfHkIK16yagO37OIAezabFbKZAK14ynq3SuTsJIRn3kENc4YysvUvpufhZXfEgYMObyntACt8OrNH0c229pGuBYus5VHKouiLsKlzdxp0uLpFWl5cQx3BCBy+/mfZV+A557bLvPQ1arevXknXBoNuuABK5bl+z5Aq+v6T+ASwt/CfJE2KE7rTHVGobI+9uR+owbgog/Ppfn9IJRq6FAAmyE8i48zucXziQyUjPbQmq5BSKWp/5hZL7LpKUyj1AwnfKNiA4xSOmOg0OSqQ57kSsqMVMbbhZQc2GiOWu/QFhAkd69BIJdD08HzZxKZVu4deBmTVtiJeKqlY/+xx+uOR1HddS5C+O5HpLjLYU+ZY+3dOgHax5H7qhXj28YLfxCCg7GNFSp0IxOAFcpFW3g6RpMJEtx2I8XJgC0AGqVwNWjygfZyhIX2yJ2Ia4M2xJMoC+D3xNGIgaS4erSwKecgissB/546TYXyMWHk+wPDzNfrUVdrDpsCGI9LQqg3eMqzLcfRf2NGhD44rOoj3AsZq0s66YX1yCUuFdRY0poKpF+fUfgVYP3EiAp3XwAa4XCg5aUvb9IuT9RrmRkVP07R6mPMR2ahyW0fQjUWb5GBA7orKLTVAjuptPLwZsCS80Mbdia+zr1YPa1ojnYRPn/cR258/eBi1t4s3FVxJr/i6+wQTdLMYk2p7JpxhEfRVLw78AQY3oGd/gbaOxdSUEudEPlE/UD+gh8ATwBAA6CPXclo94Wf+QhwcBnuMYtBK8got+kNfXSKhkit7VujaNBn2KHjpAPxl+tMTG95NQHMXHt9kIvHv3medwaY9fBGbLSMD/PUJ4dNd+72nQehNqqKdR60y1+q7ZvHESJ8Jd5lwDJXas9huQuNIebGlZAeFaYcPLzLUiDFxXOrFGIQaeKOZgEIgH8xMfGufhIO9HllspnYtPdtBqwsQpLa+LYJbFYDh//KytVFbxlq4VxbAQ6pBb8hvMe7cc72nQeiPQqHIntMCO29IYSPiJ1tAeyF7AeUtaml/9eZvTqKJocdsGwAAxUbEtbIAAKD1wTC1fqNFJFmobqnxjac92DylNqK2rvXRfM2JbQgxsZw+43WHyRMceoKxd/B1NLLCYkp1mUhW2WgGt2oMtjrIluV11uqdB6wClOSqdqkXs3Zpk6yA0ROhZ0STgjE5StRofwd+pkE+vwvvK3T1X+cQDtI7DR0BPiqnsayXSzO/DIEDl+oAh5tUhSPoRYJJBejsq8I2aik7QRVvh1FWP95EYA9LPxSqAdqem6iTKmqgRSl59OuiedZ6Ar1Ga0udieYAZZRPXSw2MgFj2ThmloQjag43Ury7mLrmiltizwVVMNNZya9mmzjyHWkhOg/Eqnqr6xh7aw7Ur1VffgKbtfCZbGUntBHCBIuylfgOA9SsX92ksw9iNC4Bgt4pO1EHLYkJHzza1KbotJ8UZXOgDNUDL7ur44U0xpKs8zqsCtg3K2k9DLITKp3y8YwFYmVWqc0XY9spBcytRC0BusaZMowE8QrqJLTCjSq9QsyFWYpT7VDjnI8XuB+2W6Zhtanw3X6JxNfvUWlhiU2i2jacBtWURnuDcW7gorYKInIQpoU4zYpC+ACTgqCDQ+G2hckubi0pKMAvGuLq9JYKnSjpOIcWHQvEoUwxUzyD+8qwHUwCwiq/8BVxGgY0gBpaPDNtlRtnGEEeORLQ611kZORWBLZK7pFoD/n3jwd1/sKcprYAiDUF7bp6tg+BjHbSS2rN4F4yZg7gR42YFUAKtkCwhTscDH+AdP+Acg54ahJluKv7VIcR0Ha1A24/gM2oDkWNbhpCnuNQAcJUjDj6CxM/zq5W2HTbzaKIdUfFU9i4+GzrM/HUqZWbFtEum5tH2RtjboKWNGlDBxIUFDKLxPJjCXwDOhttJLKDYaVCY9CCKHA4kkzlVvGKuX6DtxwiyWB+4AggUUICSgv96QfeVhvjlNnparZaIQyzkxYAl0fiW20H0ZAushZFcVYNpkkAlEiug8x5UtVMosDEz/LjfkwYkzYbXqLtWlhHS2OkGfa0o/PVLuZHtLX2wx0ELayB+7twly0BtpL9so2ets/leh5UMGxRxg4ppOKbBN85D2wlU7uxiAExxqzpFFHBfIMRp+k5MDOXxE1tBJChvwtn7D0gnttgD7sVYD7DtgxYoJseG8b2rsnMNPlxGPTkEsPqlOVgEPKrzET+9F8LeeItrtkQC+xhMEhdXWa3A2jAGSJlI9wpD2Jtia0ADC0wxgAQWUdoeVM3BA1AURycbQlKMGuUpkPAjwxgPWxEYrvq3+oGGbQlRGAdwHPIYiBIOFVFCmecb0m0jKLohODECvVZaxIHSSiOgNDOlYQQ8lYcmRUUiJ9FFBLX6Mo7z0NM24WtDuE4h+zFu9Z89D9p6bc0KTNt2WRcmStvFa3ZlfITN6DjnT6DzHW/4Da7YpUbqN5tuEvo/fiz5RyG+luzrUL0z9K/r3taPC0yAqCAdKiuD8atPeWSMrtT4cVQHyqp+EfKhfKgN0lp1wX05TW5KGOt3HBnNiCVI4kcsXcpZdYh903AA0k6ywQp/TZ4dv8B0brvGru10XtINAmfIc7d+x82zW8t/3XILDw22YiosL1qLLd8TzBS12Yi4jgfFLNSp1Sc6svaSeksb7kn573auosL6U0sT4t9YktdiQw3ZyHaBMpKWH+p0y0fPykKgzcLKErrTFh2m1y7SOQAXoNd9T1/xyC6AlmNNGTOzlQaUbSindg1vuAZBFBajGKa41jhPoXZLFdJWGZkiPZwppaW7JS5WQdPny7baLFtXOzCS/nXVyZR7N4Q9DVqBp4XRdxNXSBHUTRhtw9tlR2EPNEwPBB+6B84HDwOo+sCNWQFF0BBOMg440gvwHnwyHHtWHleggQZqGAeZKsGVpVCSgLj/UafwpeGwK1rNKwFMDSbgKS9NNEiToOMUW1hling750+7VbqNMES5DeAzC2toEOIlRltz5OFdFvY2aNXoa7h+R3rGjYvrv2RYnRoBtP3GjgHg7UZ7CuhXB8FCYHLaCyBEHfn0I27wtFc/GK70I3pHEbjhad0OgLtxGtd6NBh2Ew+qOwg3gV9RduRKAAAfO0lEQVSQT8K/Ko1mhuOREuUSP0sevIh4XsMUM30JbzMdUWv5T9j9YS+8wzVboYMlV7SyCljRIABgUaoOVM7YQMOHYFRA4vEEPzU8mHQqKDBIi7A1bAhl3Ijv+8RCH3mDoArUOQz7ZOEUUXkF7QGg7ecpo22n1KS5ofKKMya+O9xgq/OOloP3M1DZZUehDqeZMvGvLbE1pbynG7lOFj8IiJ6abCgtrOJ2ifN+3Dj53fp7dcvs1jfZptxtNfTKOoAFvLyp+EB5munA3wpI1wpOT0WqCDGg4rgOXFHc+D7HMn65boJKp//xVJnYkODmGLxOOZSnG4JTWLEHKr+CfvxpDrTZn2Ar0BobYYshj+gZeocOdrUiyCVnDxqu9vIEdvnXngZtB2OR9joCiDDF0ChSmsDIu6vt5QGLG584AJxz6IOh36Lcd2rZ5y83KKcAq2f4BRccC7QcXC8ofj+O4oq/7qAJ0PNeuOs8qz1xxcmK0gZfuyFy7OgjSXoCc5ORQZsEavyXQY8oOfSZyRTWmM2XrY6eWhMMeyHsSdDGAClLCFm5jI4W5VaPDeO6a2gRoEZSOQEad0gHoJzk6RcQ+Y/0tAKV1FkOitDUutcF9EmGa1lotVE7aOYsw3EXiSgesjVsD340+9XmfhZWQJvWtZMFspcwiAqO69K1+megKMorwvVnh3iFzgXr4G6pjqZA/CpOkrgJAOFZWwkWa/KbxaqrXhqxZipnFcwSs03KyZoxssaWGBaJaeyOnO/tgbAnQRu3S13Gz+vLAEzKeRq8w9ITdrqJ8NclrlLAUPAhOxxu4PeKi/17+unABycBtcAgX2FwyXQGQA5zKcK5XdB1LXyUSk1qq24yxxBe5FmMWyQsDQQX8OgEzn50pEsuOGh7zA00WfCYhqp2I22urAWO6ihYewm0CJqJoTFroEWQqivD8t2Id5bJZKPLCmRA23MvOwOZ7dLDPQ1azJswGkF7ALh8o2Mcv3WzzMljd3BNhNGQMZjVpgLnIJsgiAPZwB5wX4AUXCGW1w9EEB+r2asUnUaDt4c4fe7HfPJmQkoUu1+A10HPqpXA0joo0HUAPJSbI1ejEbVUGrIWu7JL/nL2QGkSNyn/udghNFH37YWwZ0HrQNM6KSz3JUVD4FjPxW6JQywjZ+7/hVEG0NXiBDee1jGfmBJuHuuiR3vBL49Gj0ikg6A0CNKNY6G//xHMuyhdxVIkqsHphozYQ69SQkyIgH23ueVyhlGkgQ2Cgux+FTQCJPGuk6jWrCpd7R4IexK0bv6nxsGrTFIzQRrGtRmHLPqHWL0ATxteXKqtKz9aXIhCM9jdunI/NL6orz49Mav6FS3DVeiNgN8f6H+583wJYrAZ0EAvxxWAHYgcqHHDcgz/EaATDrsSuMSi/P/tnUuvJMlVxyMrM6tuVd1n39sP90x7BgxGMsJILPBiFpZZIDaIhzArQKzQfACQMBu+Bns+AEvEd0BsQGyMxWs8bY17+nFf9cwqfr8Tmbdv9/SMZEsGsnri3qp8RUZGVvzjxHnFicjHur9sGzqBPHZJuVd3j+EjBKvsD15tAL6CdRggkC4xId/4UNx6Tt92dxK0NkLoRGENBlAZGxq6yTko3MEU6R1HQaX/IJEZhN5japzF8NqvIotgcgtjkA9+4u98n0xBAXsQvgo8+os0DzF7l5wlM2oN5RRRa3BrtIJqEgpNuPC4q8zDUPAgLc7uBGiltEGp4ZsrNA/F5RxdrXrbn7b+P/EL/8xueK15fmbP+V8ruNMcuF0D2u2cD28pe9AoiLCaoSDurFuSz9smXVdbFBYdODNQM6vg+Z8mdfcJF1VkFXrarNtl2G81FFLsG4rbPsT8zqwVmM0F02oMfQRrM5DaAlpBGoIZVL/zn9ieQGl9VyisI4FleP8aSi1P+xkDRvusPm16D9po2JZ6CNQgOrTAFQ1cX6DmgSXQ62lT4cGfTvHwd1W6dVrQ+FqSxliKlnj5l8wLa6RczNIdAe5QeVlYlA0KKM/7ap4RwhCX9mbQTQCxRLFfatlqod7d9eoWSk++Kf1mUw3TxRgNAOGXYq4XxahECEUCLEn4HLCpeOZQNtTQTc0TQo0x/0vjAY42CzQI1m3NotNjWJ8XsunpMp3U0/Tk8Ij7nLuGwAebsKxmaf/FhR7xrKBjrfqdeg9af37BF1vboyVrK40CVwypxNqi2QAMS4Ju4GfDAVvRjFcHgBX5sitiBl1JY6vC8nKEiA9SS6HoZ6VwenVJLQVrubSTaI3iOtuuw1iN1z8KTZ6rUXvpe7B0uo/94AborVaCcsxoXvnUgVEV0b0O5sQfQwsQfgWcDy8C6r5A9eWqlHOlRiZLjqsRHWICSyEDkt/JGbsDo0XyW6wM/NHz1HvQilE/kQCPjR3naNDVFSZcJWZMoA2aA5tLYSUmNwJYxmhxywa1EVu1BGt4YJDCgRNkaHT3SWLJ+x3W5UPDFxcqFmwGx/F3UxFB99qfedr7KvStAWJIa+Ztc5mW2pYMW8AeD5SP1WlmjGHggilDWwwmVrZBYFQbEnUR3JxThhxMWEI1VGpUhusaSEp+lyVs0oZRJVasjDfq71fvQft5P72ClsJLjeQsWAyq4TTuQaXCntSBiHNqBDJrQd6li20AJjKZHzyQXyEOvtIPUJY9CEi2AAYakbpte/jqBhAGpn24pmQor2NAqLBu5bzha6mDlFILnFNn9i/m6cU1HQrBSkdvY+iaVyHM1cal4BSathgXVqMRdaUjxANtYqx3rDXRwPoY86vvaXdBK1hVE+EgbdAOGIFYFknAhMkUssRpwIhdHzBKSjc62GCjV7cpJe3ieYWdHxAEoABQFuIELvdLCaHKEeAjnhNwfgMuZGJ4BlcicDO/fBDCrryufK77HD/WzaWcRPaEtSKumH2g6Vd+JkYBLsXKNVRfzy4IP2bqKq2mhAhFzyfoTZ6HmYWnBfQR4yFO9/aLcWq30o0mAN5t+YI4VoSslyqtsYYJgKCegiuA0Q2vsgY0MEBuGEYls7IFnWAnb6l3zUYlP1AQejEsA1hyAiqPRYblijJ3220+oryWapOvCNNrlAL+KE/0BuDbzN09PG/FR5fKA3TOV1i1QjfscqQhtUmrSdwbDuLkWxjbFmrbsJbYZs8OqmGF+hkGCn59vQOm3P6DtsNGDIUOhNIXhl6Gwdk5ExoZPhdI4dtiEqAFZyI3A4VrgkwAyiOqMdiqFhIH5HMrSJ3o2PIJgA/gwh/EsO18rxaw8sSWk+/iO/Y5bJPUWRYjGFWpvSCmn/BI8gb0eIQU1jJyKgiYnKM0Yu2Cp31+xeK61LNgRUlwH3llDaSkVRTGq0FpC1wUQ90li8R1QbtmnYk1kxtXOsSTuufcdPL8yF589x+0gpVGl4qquiwZOvU1GF6/SIc//lFYwzCEBotAQCSuM/xjT4oI4GwbQLiPbDMjCvh8NWUSIeVAnVV/mcB1bngfA9BgitMeC97BbaQrBB7htgdVA+6Z7QioC/bXEuAxzwrVGkt4pKes87VdfgVWgeg3hmEyu0AmX+zLdgxmGAZgEYqTdLH/JB2jq71mgeYtKjw7nn0ppuNQC8HrU13gr8CcO8dKVuEw44ghPa7n8Oks1ndpLzGn2oy4Jw579dV/0LY/d27qDJVoPihmhfBhkvZKzQZQKfWtwIGzNCJ8n8LKhNbf1gRqCxbBplcpn0Fru1qe9+S70O/SQ2xwPbektEUrFHEynsZX3nXnJqkpoGyotC7gTlDc4MVVoGfdAuMbastDLDtARX1RIdPB4FNL1oxAEJPtZjig81EHeGkfRC2ixpLumKEhUAGla+QKWPlflx7FC5zAdBm0fQWsP+fOgNaX6ZLgslEcrvO0GEEG8PgYPyAAEvhiH97Q82ZwKNbqdDsFJFrqZDYnCkrVo+0Zl51R4OozDvux6o2kOZK1uJUAUK5T5pW9suaeCNthnRzKAViXrK/H1nWNS6WjyEKeVgFTKmxGy8yV5/HtvfIKglljhxsKCjqu3wHsQafysi4Rt6x7YI+2OwnagE2LmQwEDgQFHymjgFCD4F8kAeJJkludtrtrMTMhgBGXocyW4QeKhS3f/egIgZkoKGfsyu6OeK6n4l6fQ5WyqdWTXuruBWkBVm9EWLNT+XxfQTLL8zjKH/bznZyjwIiUaF7rR0dosO1mARFhznly8LWhKrPoHqfdAm3bmm4UxgRICFFVi2DOC8r4M5OnbWAApc+BW0PFG0YI7hhgwfd1w2kLXH0B1EDIQ5YJ3af3kz9Cz4c6yYI/mxy21c1aniyJtFImpApJjD3LAWhAOW6O0YB8sLs3aUNM3Q0dxdFB3bLvJ2hN2kCC2NKpXNHGd4wpPdxvWWpANrBLIexJqa0L938piMXP93/49RKb2fJFVWywaNZWhRWg5YQCjHpQqZMZHF7XANbrjXOpEM/jPvLJYgSIKG8NP7nmPi1sAkxdrvHCQqcLsIHCG3+AUHCJSQCvHUDOOjqL9VOnGvX0BcxklQQV6ipAXmgQYBmmvJI5V4KXBuTRkYSnpJo6eiP1WstCUFR8grUh7gPbAC2qr76C1dcz7Ralze8U3xEQI6gXVAcV0RakSO1MwRpwLfsQAB5VWICvBNglfgGNpl+mxJiyGkrKm1MjpQUYUjk8COK+JaCVond63C7v7a1rjglEgeZejALUR0EJFPEcPgCXndjPOBSGUHQBJ3jtFN7DsT4P+W3slOajcwFcO0LMQpantTi5DfLL6jaYqNd0AJ9dtpT2dh37st9/0NJeOo+UgEl9e1AXf30k7oJJf8vBkDmACE/yhuyXUFYD0Tk8y+ftYVK6hnLNiVl7vD1Pn+Bs8mx6SvC2SxrX8hRjKB9VmtEIFXCu0TQMr4i+uPeNNJ1dpOfNBZ5hBHtD2AljgQTTe19BQeZVawQ9iTvIB3yqqPJ8taC0nAugCVwBOMALTL0x5S6bR+np9CJNmEL0dITuGUeZEcXshTYB3wL9Z3lugaA4IkBJvSzT5bTAqwyWgHeplyex9sKcsu2gTu7sI2vgT9p/0PoWbRIrDr0m54GVWIZYi4nhleFbRDNsLqE2BsAISV+EAEK9vNwFJjicTNKC1h8ryIQp1J6QyzTQh/lAEj+cwS/wpgKEizW8LQiX0kLEcqIeN/uckcpKDYNvRh8rO+IwvQFkcKFQRI/5UHKwCz5fdKOqMAbZQoucwOQ+Kem6QvssK8B5fWu3qNBCaGT4X89d+xdg8s5utjiO66HWYJxoeF5oO9pq9nGzE6BtcRq/v/vipjTgHO5/DofqOuU1XfhufnnJFBWHXCHEUC0FBjwKKiGBHxxgogfkXAsQei8gc/1ZfRICeIC8oFDcVUL3u6AjCD3xnIdqEcvB5yQ1vvmPTOpryReeZgKbZ2xxK8xaCoHHB2vJjHpWe3usLM4YQecTkNbbruYn1GDy3lzbwN5YagWo4xrWwAFBSip8MTb4H3Tqsb7ytjsBWlomJ9sI6hS8o1FcBATxAHzJClbBGQsbWAU1CxVUcwmVVNkuQMO1j6ZeH+7jmyq1k6cFWlBVi5XqmVMgSJnXnGdQJt4Afg0AQZ9acOQdUEZuaFM3BFsn6F3Ow/U47yhgnTDrSsJDwMKxRaobY31LhZlCDPuS0mhKh6IeFc+MUYH66squpc7lUSve16jfmmsHGC0GWxcz4Z1wGq9xtBniFL+dw4ffHgK6ivZouxOgFVQvKZs0FfqCC2JNFEG9oGJ6CmeNQ1sDlMjOELuFiglEUVZA3Rob/uyMmK91UGgQHyCT4hqtxsmINYuMbOApt4C2pENMJXp6X3V/Ej5RKzAst0VwhxOPuRqKfRf+KHBwCVWX5BZ2JMQrquhbCPJcDgub0OkmTKXZECZ0TF1cldzgczceZtQ9BEk61Va1GIHnyhX8PB1zXbjaDaCHH5612gN/g76mnQFtBw4bIkBsIwJaJ17bsDqNyMvOYA+m6DFpTthdhJGYXAWgAYqC1+j0NC0YhpfMXpUiG2JIwEGYKXeQhgAAkz4CXU0UFwHP9BdCiQqzkkLUocbzbsBqbeQpKYOCSvjLPDeRekmdyVeL8RD4oLKUvYU6yvu6lgKus7ADmHvxkT04ZroQ/g4jvLyu4W8G1o2yHVsc8n3uiA43gjUqndEgP0yBIVDy7GoGlYVFiN/HWrV1ZLdXqf+glWx1ZKz96W0UAVQT22rmsMsgGlSTRl3jLWXj1qi2FFAYTLnk5BuGfcqpma3b3D1Fp3lJGSr/A63khSeUEpPTYbgEUDXHBTb9ApYj4AOyxYHlh3BEReR8BYeEVPQE1Re4lOdUcJAbZW1LqKMOLpZkfq6FYMV8MkNybFgnYlQT5sh6LyyHjsDzjLoo/ytPqxujdhTjOgygyCXzyArYjQ363uC48S1uwr2x/aF6uqFF+p0CDDRgNDZgYDeNAce2HKbF6QNURB9DZRGsBofp/ORpOoU/HBo5seScYIUtCAmbn6GElzwCPE/e/WVUWFWalv8MAPAKY1GRYnydDuA1BqMN6jDAMThiqH6YysNP0tG1fGnWAEiSFXpqlkgS7x4LQp1eFLr0e61dpGQCBSRe/oCO0eCVtalwmkENtWXhaSmwgDQQx4hON0zP03xymibojmsiic9HS65NeCc6YwdeOpB88Rx/4CV86zXvi2dj2uKquD+TNqE9KF+k8aXBSzKtVRDrY+o/pY1fXcia/GY/H7B4xj7UBzc+52QZrIN2rVyNnDwr+D6HTVPMJKABHWKHDK/j45OgrA7jG+71nkLq6BAOKYtF6GQtoLYDpH1BH4IUVFOqGmwHW/cj3lYoUNknm98lYBsRCE95qwbgqq1MBeW77H32I4BC88yKZyhcllDc2meSz85gjK4Y3jnh+9aUWZFvBuvjaIJeDG2ZLI7nyUtZqv3mrC32+sgUD+/Rl7Sg98mXkP+MBgV8HQWZHB6GwOKw7zBsa7tObBxH7ldfPYMM6kY8LBc/9pbhYA89vOBkaCYOmIJToeEizskmtKwHApDDvYAuZRsASgzfHAcbEOoyqmFdoaKTvalwQhMAgBnih3x8B3JDfRHIAHN0tltVtFzZgqjnrfPu2v+8TypvnaooD09xOqLaBT3KqFgK611PKWz3yr0HrSAQrm5NGXj5aHSwj6pqCCUTyFyk3cypH2oAKgCQAdbdJ+BLZrQaEnRbHgMSQKB0RINDIn2AqAuAiUN5So0WqACiDg7tt1PoQjmhXiAAx70ibAi/XfAMB/+4A1CFxc2bqV9M93E/Wog6Rkd4WdfoUV7n7vijEF9xCEVWixCaCTrWJkYWrqmPg/eeYDx5+WtFAb37ip+kd7W+VWEb/DZMBF8Ai/OyB5vRnQDACv41ZtTCE4DhaGDz5exu2w+lDQ4BLWzCllkCXfRtdV/is0sCJHPSlCWfAXAtQ2CaAqzsd1Q/1zN3mLCswfMOCKqxpDPoTK46zU9M4wkGxrLoKJGyMOdu7gQvn+ObqHfVp0G3QzsjN3LOeXGOKgphvBvXK8o7OjhMI7QjpvitYq9fXzvC0775Rx+ztkLFtJbBGqq2Riqh8TRhAl8aFcoj8j6TGOaZY6WxAJobelpVVabGqBhhqvBIKAAQeEdVaU5ODF5W0LTppiNEh8h9yZJWAFVjgXHFyvosbVwKVH8Ah3IyBNDZyQDN1bwNMK7wbN/Gjma5uX72nRUearLQBqWzA8jOyDuXqOp4efBMlBuFxPadbpfb1fv/+3anQbs5wDcA0I5mNZ5bFUMyAGbI1BrmkB+gaCljUCoa0sOJlAi+trhkKJUtiDwKRAhK7MMwQM2U/uFFx6fp0NVy0J+qxgp3QRHVpgBuhpcoA4GZ6jVQ8gar3d7eUarQq67Qn2rJMpNsxxrL1hZzrFRUx5+I4UW9ZT+sd3ifKSkKYM6JWw81VdejMZ31EM0BHQmr2pD5YWu0JHo4fuObvxrVsHq339/jvqSdBu3sFDDBN55dVOlTWIWJViJ4zwlK9ynGgUuVmgKABncklraqWbiLX8EP3n2U9h5z7o4hNgXLg1DWq6JSWCqGTI4cMvRu7qWDapWe0RkmFAItF3YtsIABIIUOw1rgYlPPidBdp3tQw48rQLVGF4xdYoU3VyIE6WA/U38pqc7e3rtSg0BkmfLkBH4HQZA6F+hfaxamdnr4poZCg/I9qOg+HmMLtAfGB9tLB9T3RRpdPknl5TY9Hp6kh9/7izT91q9nbNL5+khlrfxOg3YKTzpZjtOz+irNDpZp/+oaa1iTnmuCkiqJkaCiuR0DvEIOillIbVUfOLwSH0tpvsBJvIZCyyVoNAiVFYp/1KZI5ZyxWD6WTT8AqPKWlp2pJ1CPa2ZSJxveZZwzDkIM17omxp3UDaoK9GPtU1dhHNP5SqhzxUOl9HYPjR1Oi7SjheYADUfNugvzwUWq5v/ConeYe19U6Yfv/1L6ub/68/TOH/wudbTcfqedBm2BhH45mqaDjz5KE/wE1uWP0QjoMBNIyo3HrmCVDxRTpu2QZkW9pW9srC7jeU4ZcdtMmkYLItFFcGMApdTvDF3vtxzBG+j1PLueDJEqrgFYt+pN4avNa6nmz8N8BrhO2jqO6y+hNgBOBMBKVHOZBZS4wc9Wp/Uh7EWNBawqxungAawBHWL+yfN0sfcwDb/7O+lXPvww7f/aN/VyDDaCvtTrtNOgbQ4RxH77t9LFX/9rOr28TvP7TCm/wJoEtQ1lO4Dohkh5QuEgpdQ3tVB7oOACOJ3NBV4Ann6sUF5Bxwk1YVJcZzMoqXu/gLydNMVK2wR2prpcJU/ocoFrxUldHH2wcWS9X0m/URsBG7Fau0wq69umT4nPgCUOa5p+D0NYijX3SJv9LJg/htctrouwG/v30uo7302P/vhP0/EH306jMbESeCyeDDzGN/HT37TToHUo/MU/+aP0lNW5/+tv/jZt/+MxEQaI1ALwNlDTCcO8y9JrCbvtY4pkhFQP/wgQKhdUjkbG/AqIVwC0woLV4OWlHsI5XAOXL0elFks8BSXMyPW7AawhILWAlkVQjVZ7HoRVlBcTI6Wc+sJizfLYANBGMV8TvnNLnRfFOXWiM/GRPMvy0qUAOQwF7xEO5NTj9O6d9PXv/WV68Oheujo8oYZ5doNz4mbMuNB7AmVbfxFLzXcatMooW/i8sz/8/TT51gfpo3/4u/Tx338/vXjyJA3PEIR4fc22UtvgKflBHLIbpuU4F+vi8WOkcJsdFRFB3QShoUK1YmEoA/hQUbQS8ryJBUmq9JBOQAegDHlT9bcxgRJ4hRaBY6m3weDW8NcX//7faQyDvMHcugX0agT0zJILcUZEDQ89hIddE1+2QvR3lm0Zcbwohw5ZVGMWaUQAREtygP716PA4jXCssaL6cqmqG8n7mMQpglpInHGiv187DVqHep1K1ozl2/cepft/9mH6+d+bpU9nLwjmdp4uLmAZUC11bIE8pQKQrEFtuEwdxlfPg6KuZ/CKdIIClz9E9qBYy/GcIR1fhi1OKueX8JyAWS0Ez+3YDhlmfQkaNRAER5aCO6sCZVxacM9Ax50K7YAAh+rr1zswWDPYNirMAl3uYoJljgjmNXz2wekdIvCfpcPR3TQdjzEUMCpIyk3g00mPajvG1FXwOtti6XVArrk42PJ+E9rdprRKP/hbRePl3omB4e4w3U9H0cZLHKJnxLC9JEr2jJgAV8yh8pwxBWq8wS7x6rq3/RTKewVgD1E9PUiXJz9AvYRu9tlxmt3/T/jOlI7OR+mf8Gn4mthhuA6qGk8ANHGOgwYPLsA4Y5gvlmd4kBXpaTlN7139I8aPO6i2UInBezZnxzii4532lQfp+J330v57X0/F195P73z1YZrcv4/aixkYFGfwel7v1cSzOvx2HIAioGaVSD0Ha/caO01pu5d801Z2QIlbyfvo6CjYA61SK/hJluxKj37zN1LDqt7bH/5bev78cZpfnKf6OVT2Gq7YmbejKp2jl50ytC8We2n6I4wDUGZn2ZqktpFkPSB5Bp5TLexqi6q7yod30/A7H6ThybfT0en7aXj/LA3euZ8azjcsq1SiV66ZIZwVVHLCQNSR3uJFbfAQ3UPiSW/NFyEAOqbnrXnneNHbr93tB4UEZM/Igbo/7QkSKO9yw5yrFTNczxGGnrPgxiX8JZMfz1fP0h7n1ld1+v67X033foEoiAzPshvO2dJCFs7eUNEG48IQ/jUWc8Z3Vj+ACUstFfAcixpDAI+SEAYxtEmg9jq5OK1GzYYYFbp2ABgOcmZVGDtvXXprQXu7pW+D1n31Aga+UAUFRuALY8MtOp9kn1bFM8WtPFhjHePYIfsLEwJalAf8vF99cYTqRLCTZgbdFKHs+W2K8zcH2bGGgSDOIwu+lelL0L6p2dUhAQvoYozEDvVYbzmlThR9KpevIY1GqrkReMijIPe5KXMNUUaM8xSqH4OCWmfsiHs91RaihlghTirss+IKx0FtyYfM+Famt5an/aLWFpiaCiJYBlgRsGLO82i5SMLG8367HBLykWyB1oZ8Ks6/8kUeJyh4u/Fp85Cv006e4yV+TbKrPksq7r+AtR6uNB5ZyB8WuKgHF9/C9CVo39DoLmRXqnPyI4WDv3QwV7rSEoZ6IQ/tKl8A1JLz+HeF29/nodYiZAkE5JD7K8p21q3AdPE8i7UxopzgIrghgMkXutol+Z1ZrHlXk25oscj/Nqb/AWpxr0tGC16AAAAAAElFTkSuQmCC" alt="" /><br /><br />You can follow me on Twitter <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/JZuckYNWAtleti">@JZuckYNWAtleti</a>, or check out my blog, <a href="http://kuytchpotato.blogspot.com/">The Kuytch Potato</a>.<br /><br />
Joseph Zucker
2011-09-25T04:53:00Z
Time to stand up and be counted
Joaquin Reyes
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Time-to-stand-up-and-be-counted/449233736809668934.html
2011-09-24T05:48:00Z
2011-09-24T05:48:00Z
<p>Arsenal fans worst fear was confirmed earlier today.</p>
<p>Wilshere has officially been Vermaelen'ed. Who was in turn Rosicky'd last season. The cycle goes on and it could be endless if we tried to remember all of the residents of the Arsenal med room.</p>
<p>Jack will have surgery on Monday effectively ruling him out until at least January if we are realistic. Let's not kid ourselves; this injury leaves a gaping hole in about the L1 to L3 area of the spine of this team. Not something that this team can cope with while Vermaelen is out. </p>
<p>It is abundantly clear that The Verminator is the rock at the back and the stabilizing force. The defense has only looked stable when he has been in, saving the day and performing admirably.</p>
<p>Arsenal can't succeed without Vermaelen, not with the current squad. Life without Jack? That's tough, but before Jack there was another promising British midfielder making his mark at the club. <br /><br /> Front and center Aaron, your time has come.</p>
<p>On deadline day we had plenty of action, but only one of those late signings was of the caliber to merit an unquestionable starting place, and that signing was Mikel Arteta. Everyone was previewing their new strongest XI and nearly none included Aaron Ramsey. It was his spot in the midfield that had been usurped. In his absence, Aaron had been leapfrogged by Jack as the bright new hope. Wilshere's great season made people forget the hype as Aaron sat on the sidelines.</p>
<p>Here is your chance Aaron, grab it. I see Ramsey as a box to box midfielder with a great engine. The only player I could compare him to is Stevie G, all the skill yet he can speak English too! But the surging runs forward finding that incisive pass impress me more than his linguistic skills. </p>
<p>The boy has something about him. He is a leader.</p>
<p> The youngest ever captain of Wales at the age of 20, a lot of pressure for such a young man. Aaron appears to have some of those intangibles, leadership qualities one doesn't usually see at such a young age and Arsene and Gary Speed seem to agree. His progress was stunted by the horrible injury sustained at Stoke, but he has come back and shown some of what he is capable of. Scoring the winner against United was huge for him last season. It was the icing on the cake, the announcement of his return. </p>
<p>Aaron is still a young player, and young players lack consistency. No one likes to criticize the golden boy, Jack, but he had subpar games last season and that is normal for young players. Developing consistency takes time, but the time is now for Aaron and he needs to seize this chance; establishing himself as a permanent member of the first XI should be his priority. </p>
<p>We have all seen what Aaron is capable of, and he looks like he can be a world beater. It is time to grab your chance, prove turning down United was the right decision. Stand up Aaron and show the Premier League who they are dealing with.</p>
<p>This means no good halves, we need talismanic displays. No going anonymous when the going gets tough, I believe Aaron has it in him. His place was taken; this is his chance to reclaim it. Remind the fans why we were so devastated when Shawcross scythed him down, and realize the potential we know he has. He has had his niggles, as is typical coming back from injury, but we don't want him to be a Diaby (Who?) and miss a month after every match played. </p>
<p>The opportunity is there, go seize it. The fate of the Arsenal season depends on it.</p>
Joaquin Reyes
2011-09-24T05:48:00Z
Spurs- The Story so Far
Sam Rooke
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Spurs--The-Story-so-Far/766078877828946751.html
2011-09-24T00:37:00Z
2011-09-24T00:37:00Z
After the first four league matches of the season, there is enough evidence to start judging Tottenham’s progress from last season. Spurs had 5 points after four games last season. After a tougher start this season they have 6. They had both scored and conceded 3 goals; those figures stand at 7 and 8 respectively. Spurs were blown away in the first two games this season and stopped the rot with improved performances at Molineux and against Liverpool. <br /><br />They have conceded a massive 63 goal scoring chances so far. They have created almost as many (61) with a third of those coming against a poor Liverpool side. It is interesting to note that last season Spurs had actually conceded more chances (68) and created far fewer (35). <br /><br />By this measure, Spurs have tightened up their defence and vastly improved their creativity. Of course, these statistics don’t tell the entire story, we have to dig a little deeper to really measure the progress from last season. Many statistics indicate a modified style which may have contributed to those improved statistics. Spurs are playing twice as many through balls this season (6 instead of 3) and substantially fewer long balls and flick ons. They have improved their passing rate by 5% too. <br /><br />The presence of Emmanuel Adebayor (who has only played 2 of the 4 matches so far) may have contributed to this tactical change. His pace and mobility make him an ideal target for through balls and also drag defenders away from his strike partner, Jermain Defoe. Defoe has benefited substantially from the presence of a strong and creative forward to play with. Last season, Defoe was often partnered with Crouch or Van der Vaart. Neither player was able to add to Defoe’s game in this way. Van der Vaart likes to drop off and play between the lines, leaving Defoe isolated.<br /><br />Another of Spurs’ new signings, Brad Friedel has also contributed to the improved start this season. Spurs have made substantially fewer defensive errors than last season. A calm and well organised ‘keeper can make all the difference for a back four.<br /><br />So Spurs are changing the way they play in order to get the best out of their new signings. Scott Parker plays a role in tandem with Modric; the two are building an effective central partnership and their combination of silk and steel form the nucleus of this new style. The seeming success of Spurs current setup raises questions about the role of Van der Vaart, Sandro and Huddlestone, each key players for Spurs in the past.
Sam Rooke
2011-09-24T00:37:00Z
Manchester City v. Everton, The 'Lescott Curse' Re-Visited
James W. Hollis
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Manchester-City-v.-Everton,-The-Lescott-Curse-Re-Visited/976558206334000547.html
2011-09-23T22:30:00Z
2011-09-23T22:30:00Z
<p>Tomorrow morning will see the coming together of two sides that couldn’t be more different. Manchester City is riding the wave of investment by one of the richest men in the world, Everton are the opposite of that. Manchester City are real title contenders, Everton aren’t. Manchester City have at least two players for every position, Everton’s players have to be prepared to fill in at least two positions. Clearly, tomorrow is a David-Goliath showdown. <br /><br />For whatever reason, Manchester City has flopped against Everton since receiving their oil-money booster shot. In fact, City has lost seven of the last eight against Everton, including the last four straight. Additionally, there has been a growing animosity between these two clubs since the Lescott saga. These conflicts range from <a href="http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1206661/No-class-Everton-boss-David-Moyes-raps-Manchester-City-counterpart-Mark-Hughes-Joleon-Lescott-transfer-wrangle-escalates.html">verbal sparring</a> in the press between David Moyes and Mark Hughes to an <a href="http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story?id=761711&sec=england&cc=5901">altercation</a> between Garry Cook and a friend of Bill Kenwright’s in the director’s box. In fact, I would say that the matches against City have ranked right behind the Derby and the annual ‘Hate Rooney’ Day at Goodison (Everton v. Man. United) in terms of both fan and player emotion.<br /><br />Here are some battles to watch out for tomorrow:<br /><br /><strong>Moyes v. Mancini</strong></p>
<p>If you care about football at all you recall the touchline fracas between the two managers as Everton exposed all of City’s mercenary-related (read: lack of heart) flaws for the second time in the 09/10 season. Moyes’ <a href="http://www.evertonfc.com/news/archive/2011/09/23/moyes-city-test-tougher-than-ever">appears to be using</a> the ‘no one believes in us’ mantra again, which I think has been the secret to our success against City of the past two years. Mancini needs to break his duck against Moyes this time to keep up with streaking Manchester United.<br /><br />Video evidence: <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6JM0niOycb0">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6JM0niOycb0<br /><br /></a><strong>Neville v. Mancini</strong></p>
<p>Much like the above conflict, David Moyes’ field commander, Phil Neville and Mancini had to be separated following City’s most recent collapse at Goodison Park. Nothing during that exchange was more telling than Moyes’ grin as he walked off after teammates corralled Neville into the locker room. He loved every second of his captain’s passion. Everton will need Phil Neville’s guidance and, after a rare goal on Wednesday, Phil will be on his game.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1384711/Roberto-Mancini-Phil-Neville-Goodison-Park-bust-up.html">http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1384711/Roberto-Mancini-Phil-Neville-Goodison-Park-bust-up.html<br /><br /></a><strong>Coleman v. Kolarov</strong></p>
<p>Coleman helped secure the victory against City at Goodison last May. After being subbed with only six minutes remaining in the match, Coleman was a livewire. He managed to get into it with Kolarov before getting yellow carded for fouling (and then kicking the ball at) Joleon Lescott (to the Goodison crowd’s glee). A ‘discussion’ ensued after the match between Kolarov and Coleman. Kolarov apparently took issue with (losing) a raised elbow from Coleman.<br /><br />This has been the background on my phone since that match: <a href="http://www.supersoccer.co.id/uploads/tx_rwgallery/Everton_s_Seamus_Coleman_and_Manchester_City_s_Aleksander_Kolarov_clash_at_full_time.jpg">http://www.supersoccer.co.id/uploads/tx_rwgallery/Everton_s_Seamus_Coleman_and_Manchester_City_s_Aleksander_Kolarov_clash_at_full_time.jpg</a></p>
<p><strong>City v. Tim Cahill</strong></p>
<p>No player has been bigger for Everton against City recently than Tim Cahill. Whether it was his last minute header to steal a win after a Joe Hart gaffe or the fact that he scored one goal and set up a second at Eastlands (Etihad?) last year, Tim Cahill will be key for Everton in this match. He loves these games against the best teams and raises his game each time. Back him to score tomorrow, somehow.<br /><br />A goal and an assist: <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bEJdQhd8wr0">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bEJdQhd8wr0<br /><br /></a>My Everton XI to start: Howard, Neville, Baines, Jagielka, Distin, Fellaini, Rodwell, Coleman, Drenthe, Osman, Cahill<br /><br />This is the sort of match in which Moyes would love to play Anichebe alone up top. We’re going to look to be combative in the midfield in this game because playing football against the likes of Manchester City would be suicide. We’ll play to our strengths, press them tightly, and I’d be satisfied with a draw. Everton’s set pieces will be critical tomorrow if we struggle to secure possession and get forward. Also, keep an eye out for the ‘heart’ factor and let’s see if City shows more will to win than they have in the past four meetings between these teams. <br /><br />Prediction: Hard-fought 2-2<br /><br />Follow me on twitter: www.twitter.com/jwhollis</p>
<p> </p>
James W. Hollis
2011-09-23T22:30:00Z
Chelsea Opposition Scout Report: Swansea City
Lamin Oo
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Chelsea-Opposition-Scout-Report:-Swansea-City/961210727810414560.html
2011-09-22T23:16:00Z
2011-09-22T23:16:00Z
<div>Swansea manager Brendan Rodgers, former Chelsea youth-team manager and reserve-team boss, will return to Stamford Bridge leading a team which is high on confidence after grabbing their first league win of the season last week. His side has kept three clean sheets at home, and their two losses came against high flying Manchester City in the opening game and against the wounded Arsenal in the back of their 8-2 defeat to United. Swansea is a team that likes to pass the ball: they brew a very patient build up from the back and look to break with the pace of their wingers – one of whom, Scott Sinclair, a former Chelsea player, should be a familiar face to many Chelsea fans. Here is my scout report ahead of the weekend’s encounter. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator"><strong><em></em></strong><strong><em><span style="background-color: yellow; line-height: 14px;">The first win and the third clean sheet at home would have pleased Brendan Rogers...</span></em></strong><br /><br /><img style="margin: 5px auto; display: block;" src="/images/blog/Starting XI vs WBA.jpg" alt="" /><br />
<div>Last week, Swansea ended their four-game goal drought in top flight football, beating West Brom 3-0 at home. Scott Sinclair, Leroy Lita and Nathan Dyer led the attack of a 4-3-3/4-2-3-1 formation and all three of them scored. Injuries to Steven Caulker, Kemy Augustien and Danny Graham mean that the home team came into this game with three personal changes to the starting XI – Garry Monk, Mark Gower and Leroy Lita replaced the injured.<br /><br /></div>
<div>It was quite an open game with both teams getting chances to score. Some good goalkeeping by Michel Vrom kept West Brom from scoring. At the other end, Sinclair scored from the penalty kick and provided the assist for Lita to score Swansea’s second goal. In the second half, Lita turned provider and assisted Dyer for his goal.<br /><br /><img style="margin: 5px auto; display: block;" src="/images/blog/Swansea Last 5 Results.jpg" alt="" /><br />
<div>It is ironic that the goals finally came for Swansea in a game, in which their most dangerous attacking threat, Danny Graham, was out injured. In the four previous league games, Graham has the most shots on target in the team. Now with the good performance that he has put in against West Brom, Lita might be given the start against Chelsea even if Graham recovers from injury on time.<br /><br /></div>
<div>The first win and the third clean sheet at home would have pleased Brendan Rogers but the injury to the right fullback Neil Taylor means that the Swansea manager will have to bring on another player from the bench to start the game against Chelsea.<br /><br /><strong><em><span style="background-color: yellow; line-height: 14px;">Their possession doesn't always translate into attacking threat...</span></em></strong></div>
</div>
<br /><img style="margin: 5px auto; display: block;" src="/images/blog/Swansea Poss vs SOG stats.jpg" alt="" /><br />
<div>After their first five showing in the Barclay’s Premier League, it is no longer a secret that Swansea likes to play possession football with plenty of passes. Even in the season-opening away game at the Etihad Stadium, Swansea had the better share of the ball possession (58%) despite being beaten 4-0 by Manchester City. In the four league games that followed, Arsenal were the only opposition that saw more of the ball (57% possession) than Swansea. And Rogers is not likely to change this ball possession tactic against Chelsea:</div>
<blockquote>“We are learning all the time and we know you have to be collectively right, we are not naïve enough to think we can open everything up like we do at home, but we are still going to try and maintain our idea to control possession and dominate with the ball.” (<a href="http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/959309/swansea%27s-brendan-rodgers-will-stick-to-style-for-chelsea-return?cc=5901">Source</a>)</blockquote>
<div>I think the possession game has served them well defensively because the more time you have on the ball, the less likely that your opponent can fashion a goal scoring opportunity. The three clean sheets at home support this theory.</div>
<div><br />However, their possession doesn’t always translate into attacking threat. This is not only evident in their run of four games without scoring a goal, but also in their low shots on goal statistics in the last five league games – 3.2 SOGs on average and 4 SOGs being the highest in a single game.<br /><br /><strong><em style="background-color: yellow;">Right back, Angel Rangel, has the highest number of successful passes within the Swansea squad...</em></strong> <br /><br />
<div>Perhaps this should not come as a surprise because their possession play is based mainly in their defense. One of the more fascinating statistics I have come across in my research on Swansea is that their right back, Angel Rangel, has the highest number of successful passes within the Swansea squad, in all five league games. More to this point, in the game against Wigan, for instance, Swansea’s back four – Williams, Taylor, Rangel and Caulher – made a total of 260 successful passes, while their front four – Allen, Sinclair, Dyer and Graham – only made 94 successful passes all together.</div>
<div><br />Ultimately, Swansea’s possession play in the back means that Chelsea’s attacking players will have to do a big share of the pressing duty this weekend. If we can force a passing mistake in the back, we will have plenty of goal-scoring opportunities.<br /><br /></div>
</div>
<strong><em style="background-color: yellow;">Swansea's attacking movements usually start with their two pacey wingers<br /><br /><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="/images/blog/Britton'sPasses.jpg" alt="" /><br /></em></strong>
<div>Their slow build up continues in the midfield. As you can see in <em>Chart 1</em>, the majority of central midfielder Britton’s passes in Manchester City game are horizontal (side-to-side). He misplaced only 4 passes out of 55 pass attempts, but all four of those incomplete passes were vertical (forward).<br /><br /></div>
Swansea’s attacking movements usually start with their two pacey wingers – Sinclair (left) and Dyer (right). Both of these players are skillful and fast. Their ability to run with the ball is better than their ability to distribute the ball. So, these two quick players are used as the outlet from the slow build up in the back.<br /><br /><strong><em style="background-color: yellow;">The left side of their defense showed weakness against Manchester City<br /><br /></em></strong>Swansea have conceded five goals in the opening five games but four of those goals came from Manchester City. As mentioned above, Swansea secure their defense through possession. However, the left side of their defense showed weakness against Manchester City.<br /><br /><img style="margin: 5px auto; display: block;" src="/images/blog/Johnson To Silva Pass.jpg" alt="" width="472" height="262" /><br /><em>Picture 1</em><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>shows City's Adam Johnson laying the ball into the run of David Silva, whose shot hit the cross bar. Swansea's three defenders were so focus on Johnson that they failed to pick up the late run by the little Spanish midfielder who got a free sniff at the goal.<br /><br /><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="/images/blog/Johnson's Shot From the Right.jpg" alt="" width="483" height="267" /><br /><em>Picture 2</em><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>shows City winger Johnson bombing down Swansea's left. Although there were two Swansea defenders right in front of him, Johnson still managed to get a shot off. The strike was initially saved by the keeper but Dzeko pounced on the rebound and scored City's first goal.<br /><br /><img style="margin: 5px auto; display: block;" src="/images/blog/Richard To Kun Pass.jpg" alt="" width="474" height="263" /><br />Finally, in<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><em>Picture 3</em>, Micah Richards squares a good pass, again from Swansea's left side, to Sergio Aguero who taps in to score his first goal for Manchester City. [Note: you can watch the extended highlights of this game<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><a style="text-decoration: none; color: #174a82;" href="http://www.mcfc.co.uk/Video/Match-highlights/Manchester-City-4-Swansea-0-extended-highlights">here</a>.]<br /><br /><strong><em style="background-color: yellow;">The home fans should see their side score a lot of goals in this game<br /><br /></em></strong><span style="line-height: 14px;">Swansea's defensive weakness must be exploited by Chelsea players on the right </span>–<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><span style="text-decoration: line-through;">Daniel Sturridge</span> (<strong>Update:<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></strong>injured in Carling Cup game), Nicolas Anelka, Jose Bosingwa and Ramires. If these players can provide quality service to<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><a style="text-decoration: none; color: #174a82;" href="http://carefreechronicles.blogspot.com/2011/09/is-real-fernando-torres-back.html">the improving Fernando Torres</a><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>in the middle, the home fans should see their side score a lot of goals in this game. Defensively, Chelsea should be aware of the pace in the two Swansea wingers, but the majority of the pressing will have to be done by Chelsea attacking players, who will have to put pressure on possession-controlling Swansea's defense.<br />
<p><em>Carefree, wherever you may be...</em></p>
<p>You can follow me on twitter <a href="http://www.twitter.com/carefreechronic">@CareFreeChronic</a>.</p>
<p>You can read my other posts on <a href="http://www.carefreechronicles.blogspot.com/">my blog</a> or at <a href="http://bluetinted.com/">BlueTinted.com</a>.</p>
<strong><em></em></strong></div>
Lamin Oo
2011-09-22T23:16:00Z
Liver n'Onions: Are we as good as we think?
Nash Larson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Liver-nOnions:-Are-we-as-good-as-we-think/740283237281672131.html
2011-09-21T19:04:00Z
2011-09-21T19:04:00Z
<p class="separator" style="text-align: left;">Liverpool's performance against Tottenham at the weekend was just about as rank as a bag of month-old Onions left out in the sun to rot. Under the cosh from the first moments, Liverpool where out played by a team that has been the living embodiment of mediocrity in recent times. In a game where the Reds saw red twice with the sending off of Charlie Adam and Martin Skrtel, who both looked out of depth, out of touch and out of position. I will cut Skrtel some slack for his dismal performance as he was filling in as an emergency right back due to the injures of Martin Kelly and Glen Johnson. The tackle that lead to his sending odd was shambolic and rash, expected from a young player like Coates - who made his debut - but not Skrtel, an experienced defender and should show more maturity in his decision making, earning Andy Gray's, "Rocks for brains." This was the second in the double action personnel loss sustained after Charlie Adam headed to the showers early after picking up his second yellow. Liverpool couldn't start the attacking engines falling behind to a wonder strike from Luka Modric. Not long after the opening goal I had a realization that shook me to my core. Looking at the teams that lined up next to each other, I had to ask myself, "Is Liverpool's first team any better than Tottenham's"? It should be better! But upon examination I have dug up some dirt that you could grow unicorns on. Let me explain the procedures of this examination. I am strictly looking at the players potential, talent, and how they are viewed in a modern footballing sense. The line-ups on sunday where:</p>
<p> Tottenham starting lineup: (4-4-2)</p>
<p>Friedal; Walker, Kaboul, King, Assou- Ekotto; Kranjcar, Parker, Modric, Bale; Defoe, Adebayor</p>
<p> Liverpool's starting lineup: (4-4-2)</p>
<p>Reina; Skrtel, Carragher, Agger, Enrique; Henderson, Adam, Lucas, Downing; Carroll, Suarez</p>
<p> <strong>Friedal v. Reina:</strong></p>
<p>Both are fantastic keepers who have been around the Premier League for a long, long time. In terms of notoriety, Reina is regarded as a more of a star, as a sure fire stater for almost any national teams that don't have Iker Casillas in their national pool. Both are regarded as two of the more consistent keepers in England. So I will call it pretty much a wash between the two keepers with Reina taking the slight edge of the American.</p>
<p><strong>Better player:</strong> Reina</p>
<p> <strong>Kyle Walker v. Martin Skrtel:</strong></p>
<p>Taking into the account that Skrtel was forced to play out of position, he had a miserable game with Tottenham pinpointing his side as the entry point in behind. Kyle Walker is a promising English youngster who had a successful loan at Aston Villa only to be called back to N. London and given Corluka to vie with for first team football. Looking at the two is comparing a horse and a donkey, with Skrtel playing out of the position so I won't go further in depth.</p>
<p><strong>Better player:</strong> Walker</p>
<p> <strong>Younes Kaboul v. Jamie Carragher:</strong></p>
<p>The age old stalwart of Merseyside it seems is reaching his final swan song, looking sloppy and slow. Ok its not that bad yet, but the wonderful servant to Liverpool is a fantastic center back that most teams would like on their books. A few years ago I would take him over Kaboul anyday, and I probably still would, but the gulf of class between Carragher and the Frenchman is not so wide.</p>
<p><strong>Better player:</strong> Carragher</p>
<p> <strong>Ledley King v. Daniel Agger:</strong></p>
<p>Both very injury prone players who when fit are great assets, but If you're lucky enough to have them lacing up their boots in successive games, you should be counting your chickens. Agger and King are quite different players excluding the knack for picking up injures; Agger is a fiery, aggressive player who often talks himself into trouble, even the way he looks, the foehawk and the tat's completes the facade. King is the opposite - calm, composed, and clinical in the back, playing it safe and as I said when fit is a force to be reckoned with.</p>
<p><strong>Better player: </strong>King</p>
<p> <strong>Benoit Assou- Ekotto v. Jose Enrique</strong>:</p>
<p>Enrique has started his Liverpool career liked we all hoped. I see him settling even more as the Reds get on a role and stop hitting speed bumps in the shape of Stoke City. He has linked well with Downing on the left, but I would like to see more adventure in his runs, overlapping and swinging 'em in. Now that Capdevilla is the wrong side of 30, expect to see Enrique as a regular in Spain's left-back spot. Hearing chatter from many outlets it seems that Assou-Ekotto has been pinned at the the weak point in Spurs defense, I don't really see it. Bedsides his poor balls out, he looks decent to me. for my team I am going with Enrique hands down lads</p>
<p><strong>Better player:</strong> Enrique</p>
<p> <strong>Scott Parker v. Lucas Leiva:</strong></p>
<p>Scotty Parker is the embodiment of industry, voted Sports writers Player of the Year last season, shows a great bit of business by Spurs: hard working, spirited, continually doing the simple things well. Lucas, the Brazilian, forced many Liverpool fans to the bottle, watching him give away balls and perform miserably for his first couple years at Anfield. I wished someone would bind his hands, blind fold him and drop him off at David Moyes door step. Since then he has come on leaps and bounds, surgical in his short range passing, tracks players well and works his socks off. I love the player now and has a few youthful years on Scotty Parker. This is cannon fodder as I'm taking Scotty Parker for his hunger is second to none.</p>
<p><strong>Better player:</strong> Parker</p>
<p> <strong>Luka Modric v. Charlie Adam:</strong> </p>
<p>The turmoil surrounding the transfer that did not come, certainly did nothing to slow down the creative Croatian as he undid the Reds with an outrageous strike. For me the gulf in class is enormous between Luka Modric and Charlie Adam. In the start of the season Liverpool had Adam, Meireles, Gerrard, Aquilani, Lucas and Henderson on the roster. Out of those 5 arguably the better 2 left, leaving us with Adam as our creative midfielder. When Captain Gerrard returns to the side, I expect/hope Adam gets dropped to the bench, as I remain bewildered over his contribution other from his set-piece and corner expertise. Modric is more dynamic going forward, dosen't seem to make rash challenges, especially on a yellow. Both players are good with a pass, but when you sign Modric you get a more complete player.</p>
<p><strong>Better player:</strong> Modric</p>
<p> <strong>Bale v. Downing:</strong></p>
<p>This comparison is consistency vs. streakiness, with Gareth Bale being as streaky as they come. He had one half of a fantastic season last year; before there was a stretch of I believe 28 games that when ever he started, Spurs lost. The jet propelled Welshman can out run seemingly anyone, and has it in his locker to turn a defender like Maicon in to minced meat. The problem with Bale is he doesn't do it enough. Downing on the other hand has been a consistent performer for years now, climbing up the footballing latter, from Middlesborough to Villa, to the National team, to Liverpool. You can bet your house on the fact that every game he will swing in a good cross, beat a few players and get to the bi-line more times than you could fathom. Bale can dazzle with the spectacular (refer to the San Siro last year), but Downing is the tortoise I this situation I dare not to pick the hare.</p>
<p><strong>Better player:</strong> Downing</p>
<p> <strong>Kranjcar v. Henderson: </strong></p>
<p>Kranjcar is a real tactile player, who creates going forward with silky passing and creative vision, but is lacking in confidence. Henderson acquired a massive fee this summer for his promise and has performed decently for Liverpool so far but he will grow. He can operate in the center, or on the wing where Dalgleish has deployed him. He is a rudimentary player, doing the simple things well, and is composed for his youth. I think in terms of footballing experience and skill at the moment Kranjcar pips Henderson, but I say this with a condition that come a couple years Henderson will far surpass him.</p>
<p>Better player: Kranjcar</p>
<p> <strong>Defoe vs. Suarez:</strong></p>
<p>Suarez hands down, no contest. More dynamic, hungry, skillful and hard working. Both players are quick, diminutive and natural goal scorers. Suarez takes this one although he failed to break the Spurs defensive shackles this weekend.</p>
<p>Better player: Suarez</p>
<p> <strong>Adebayor v. Carroll:</strong></p>
<p>For the life of me I cannot even remember what Carroll did in the game, besides being involved in the disallowed goal, he was pretty anonymous in link up play. Carroll earned about half of his ridiculous transfer price tag at Newcastle, but since moving to Liverpool has struggled for fitness. The man is actually a boy, in age and how he acts, shows tremendous promise but has yet to show it. Looking at the teams Adebayor has played for over the years says it all: Arsenal, Manchester City, Real Madrid and Tottenham. He is clinical when on song, tricky scoring on his home debut on the weekend with a cheeky chip over Reina. Both have baggage, controversy, and are much maligned by fans alike. In terms of doing it…Its gotta be Adebayor</p>
<p><strong>Better player:</strong> Adebayor</p>
<p> </p>
<p class="separator"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-waKfh8IKJOo/Tno09nT1KJI/AAAAAAAAATI/hSyMnJsdyRc/s1600/charlie.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-waKfh8IKJOo/Tno09nT1KJI/AAAAAAAAATI/hSyMnJsdyRc/s400/charlie.jpg" border="0" alt="" width="400" height="266" /></a></p>
<p>Judging Tottenham so far this season is somewhat unfair to the Spurs as they have faced a flying Man City side, and an even higher soaring United. With much being made over the lack of spending done by 'Arry this summer, looking at the starting lineup that faced Liverpool at the weekend speaks volumes of the squad they have, clearly seen in comparison to Liverpool who spent massively. I have to ask myself…are the Reds any better than Spurs. This is a slightly worrisome realization that the fight to get back into Champions League contention will be tougher than expected.</p>
Nash Larson
2011-09-21T19:04:00Z
Is The REAL Fernando Torres Back?
Lamin Oo
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Is-The-REAL-Fernando-Torres-Back/-752598586858522731.html
2011-09-20T16:13:00Z
2011-09-20T16:13:00Z
<div>In the wake of Chelsea’s 3-1 loss to Manchester United, Fernando Torres’s painful miss from close range headlined the majority of football articles. But many Chelsea fans rightfully find comfort in the Spaniard’s promising performance which hinted that the Torres of old is still alive under the £50 million shell.<br /><br /></div>
<div>Even casual football fans know that Torres is not the type of player who thrives on playing with his back to the goal (a la Didier Drogba). He is most dangerous when running in behind the defense and collecting clever through balls. That is the ability that made him one of the top strikers during his stint at Liverpool. Up until this Sunday’s game, we haven’t quiet seen that Torres in a Chelsea jersey. He was a constant threat to United’s young defense. Last week, I praised Nicolas Anelka for his performance against Sunderland, where he made important runs in behind the defenders. Torres’s runs and movements in the United game were even better. Let’s take a closer look at the performance of Chelsea’s number 9 in that game, shall we?<br /><br /><img style="margin: 5px auto; display: block;" src="/images/blog/Mata To Torres Pass.jpg" alt="" width="518" height="272" /><br />The first dangerous move was started by that little genius Juan Mata who slipped a ball through to Torres, taking Michael Carrick and Chris Smalling out of the game. Torres, in blue circle, timed his run perfectly to run on to the ball. He squared the ball to Ramires to tap in from point blank but, as we all know, the Brazilian shot straight at David de Gea. Let’s take count: Torres’s first smart run resulted in a clear goal scoring opportunity, in which he could (should) have gotten a very good assist.<br /><br /><img style="margin: 5px auto; display: block;" src="/images/blog/Anelka To Torres Pass.jpg" alt="" width="525" height="275" /><br />In the second scenario, Torres snuck in between Johnny Evans and Phil Jones to run onto Anelka’s slight reverse pass. You must admire the quality of Anelka’s pass here, but it was El Nino who made that clever run and finish with a delightful chip to score his first goal of the season. The run timed perfectly with the finish to put the cheery on top. “Torres lacks confidence” is a fashionable media narrative, but the way he scored that goal shows nothing BUT confidence.<br /><br /><img style="margin: 5px auto; display: block;" src="/images/blog/Ramires To Torres Pass.jpg" alt="" width="532" height="279" /><br /><br />Finally, the notorious miss. Before I talk about what’s going on in the picture, let me just credit Ramires for starting this move by intercepting a United pass in Chelsea’s half. After exchanging passes with Anelka, Ramires found himself with the ball in this position and saw that Torres was, again, making a move in between Carrick and Evans. What follows is a sweet turn to collect the ball, a skillful step-over that fooled the goalkeeper and a woeful miss.<br /><br />
<div><img style="margin: 5px; float: left;" src="/images/blog/Torres Pass Received In PK Box.jpg" alt="" />Let’s recount: three clever runs resulted in three goal-scoring opportunities – provided what should have been an assist; beautifully finished one; and unfortunately missed the last. Any player or striker should be proud of this performance, especially against a team that has had an irresistible start of the season.<br /><br /></div>
<div>Part of the reason for this solid performance is, of course, the quality and the quantity of the supply. All the passes featured in the three pictures above are classy, intelligent passes that curved the defense wide open. During this game, Torres received a total of seven passes in United penalty box, Sturridge and Mata supplying two passes each.<br /><img style="margin: 5px; float: right;" src="/images/blog/Torres Pass Received.jpg" alt="" width="214" height="192" /><br />
<div>In the season opening game against Stoke, Torres received many passes but most of which were collected around the center circle. Against United, however, the Spanish international received a total of 35 passes, and 29 those passes (82.9%) were collected in the United half (8 of those passes came from Mata). Ten passes out of those twenty-nine passes received in United's half were gathered within the final 25 yards of United’s half.</div>
<div><br />At any rate, all these passes will not be successful if Torres weren’t willing to make the run. Part of the problem Chelsea fans, or at least some, have with Torres is not his lack of goal but hisdemeanor which occasionally shows the lack of commitment. That was not the case in this game. Not only was he making attacking moves, he was also very much involved in pressing of the United players when Chelsea lost possession. Torres made a total of 12 tackles, all in United’s half, and 6 of them were successful. </div>
<div><br />It is, however, premature to announce that the lethal attacking force that is Fernando Torres has returned. After all, he did fail to finish that one golden opportunity. But the promising signs are there for the Stamford Bridge faithfuls. Despite Chelsea's defeat to a title rival, there are positives to take away from the game, and Torres is a fine example of that. Shakespeare writes in Othello, "The robbed that smiles steals something from the thief". Unfavorable fortune may have robbed a result off of Chelsea but Torres's performance gives fans a reason to smile about.</div>
</div>
<p><em>Carefree, wherever you may be...</em> </p>
<p>You can follow me on twitter <a href="http://www.twitter.com/carefreechronic">@CareFreeChronic</a>.</p>
<p>You can read my other posts on <a href="http://www.carefreechronicles.blogspot.com/">my blog</a> or at <a href="http://bluetinted.com/">BlueTinted.com</a>.</p>
</div>
Lamin Oo
2011-09-20T16:13:00Z
Rangers beat 10-man Celtic in another Old Firm Classic
Sandy Thin
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Rangers-beat-10-man-Celtic-in-another-Old-Firm-Classic/-555022077764276157.html
2011-09-19T19:51:00Z
2011-09-19T19:51:00Z
<p>As with every Old Firm derby, anticipation for Sunday’s clash of the Scottish titans had been building for weeks. It has become true that with the very odd exception, the great Glasgow derbies of recent years have entirely lived up to the hype. This weekend’s one, the first of the 11/12 season, was not one to be missed. Ranger’s came away as 4-2 winners in what was an intense, dramatic affair at Ibrox in which the outcome was uncertain until the very end.</p>
<p>The home side took the lead midway through the first half when bad positioning from Beram Kayal and an awful clearance from new boy Kelvin Wilson led to a classy strike from Steven Naismith, his first in an Old Firm. Celtic replied quickly with a superb finish from Gary Hooper, this was followed up just before the break with another Celtic goal when Alan McGregor fumbled a long range shot from Badr El Kaddouri, which trickles through the keeper’s fingers and between his legs into the Rangers goal.</p>
<p>Rangers scored three in a pulsating second half in which the football was about as end to end as is humanly possible. Nikica Jelavic scored the equaliser and Kyle Lafferty then put the Blues into the lead following a myriad of missed opportunities from the Northern Irish forward. As per usual in Old Firm derbies, tempers were flaring high and despite there only being two bookings in the match, largely thanks to great refereeing from Craig Thompson, Celtic’s Charlie Mulgrew was sent off for a second reckless challenge. The Gers cemented the victory over their greatest rivals with an injury time second from Naismith, who was named Man of the Match.</p>
<p>While the on field action was fantastic, the off field activities left much to be desired. There were the usual fifteen arrests in the stadium itself but this was nothing compared to the events outside the stadium. There was no rioting so it wasn’t even events on the streets but back in fans’ own homes. Incidents of domestic abuse more than doubled compared to the average non-Old Firm Sunday and were even up on last year’s figures for Old Firm days. It is a poor reflection on the two teams and on Scottish Football and even Scotland as a whole. We witnessed a brilliant game of football but rather than celebrating or accepting that a small minority, and it is just a very small minority, of both Rangers and Celtic fans sought alcoholism as a refuge for their problems, which could have resulted in far greater problems than it fortunately did.</p>
<p>Back in the footballing world, Hearts earned a 2-0 victory with a good performance at Tynecastle against St Mirren. Aberdeen and Kilmarnock drew 2-2, as did Dunfermline and Hibs (who are still flailing hopelessly near the bottom). St Johnstone and Dundee Utd also picked up impressive wins over Motherwell and Caley Thistle respectively, leaving them in the upper half of the table.</p>
Sandy Thin
2011-09-19T19:51:00Z
Premier League Recap (September 17-18)
Adam Johnson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Premier-League-Recap-September-17-18/924406803101116976.html
2011-09-19T08:15:00Z
2011-09-19T08:15:00Z
<p>Premier League Recap (September 17-18)</p>
<p>There was drama at the top of the table again this weekend as the Premier League continues to keep its viewers guessing. Let’s just get straight to the action, starting again with Arsenal.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Blackburn 4-3 Arsenal</span></p>
<p>After a week which seemingly saw the Gunners gain some momentum, with a win in the league and a draw in the Champions League, reality set back in for this group of players and supporters. Not only are they not as good as years prior, they are terribly unlucky. They started really well and Gervinho scored early to make it 1-0. Yakubu was making his first start and he tied the match with a sneaky little finish. Arsenal would again take the lead though with Mikel Arteta finishing a beautiful build up. The match was then 2-2 after Rochina’s free kick was turned in off of Alex Song’s leg. As the rain came and went Yakubu scored again, though he was probably offside, and improbably Blackburn had the lead. It was now Laurent Koscielny’s turn to score for the wrong team as he was the victim of a great run by Martin Olsson. Marouane Chamakh came on and made it 4-3 but Mertesacker missed his header and it would finish with another Arsenal loss.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Aston Villa 1-1 Newcastle</span></p>
<p>Both of these teams have gotten off to pretty decent starts and a point would most likely satisfy both managers. Gabby Agbonlahor scored again for Villa and Leon Best for Newcastle to ensure the point for the two clubs. Darren Bent didn’t have his best game but luckily for Villa, Shay Given did as he saved the home side on a few occasions.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Everton 3-1 Wigan</span></p>
<p>The Goodison Park faithful deserved a win and good performance and they got it on Saturday. Franco di Santo got the away side in front, however, with a deflected shot past Tim Howard. Phil Jagielka made it 1-1 just a couple minutes later. Late in the match Everton were rewarded for their good play when new guy, Apostolos Vellios, headed in the go ahead goal. With Wigan pushing forward former Real Madrid man, Royston Drenthe, got his first for the Blues and their third on the day.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Wolves 0-3 QPR</span></p>
<p>Wolves have had a good start to the season but this match may have been a wakeup call for them. Joey Barton got his first goal for his new club to get this one going for Rangers. Just two minutes later Alejandro Faurlin doubled the lead with a nice volley. QPR continued to look good and got the third goal from DJ Campbell to wrap up the three points.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Swansea 3-0 West Brom</span></p>
<p>Michel Vorm kept another clean sheet as Swansea got their first home Premier League win. Goals came from Scott Sinclair (via penalty), Leroy Lita, and Nathan Dyer. The Swansea fans were going nuts and it was a cool sight to see for the Welsh supporters.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Bolton 1-2 Norwich</span></p>
<p>Bolton hasn’t gotten off to a good start but a tough schedule could be an excuse for that. With newly promoted Norwich in town though, the tough schedule would not be an excuse for a poor performance in this match. Norwich went up 2-0 thanks to Anthony Pilkington and Bradley Johnson. Ivan Klasnic was then sent off for an apparent headbutt but Marc Tierney should be ashamed of how easily he went down from said headbutt. Bolton pulled one back on a Martin Petrov penalty but that was it as Norwich got the win, 2-1.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Tottenham 4-0 Liverpool</span></p>
<p>These two teams are most likely going to be close near the top of the table at the end of the season so points off of each other are at a premium. Liverpool needed to respond after their loss at Stoke and oh how they didn’t. Luka Modric opened the scoring for Spurs with an awesome strike. Luis Suarez had a goal disallowed for offside. Charlie Adam was booked twice before halftime and Liverpool was down a goal and a man going into the second half. Early in the second half Martin Skyrtel got his second yellow and the Reds were down to nine men. It all fell apart after that with Jermaine Defoe getting one and Emmanuel Adebayor getting two on his home debut to make it a perfect day at White Heart Lane.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Fulham 2-2 Manchester City</span></p>
<p>Everyone was interested to see how Man City would handle a Champions League week and the first blip on the season radar finally showed up at Craven Cottage. Sergio Aguero got them out to a 2-0 lead on two more strikes for him but Fulham fought back in the second half. Bobby Zamora got the first off a Clint Dempsey assist. The second was unfortunate as the deflected shot from Danny Murphy left Joe Hart helpless. This is a nice point for Fulham.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Sunderland 4-0 Stoke</span></p>
<p>What an odd one this was. Stoke was traveling back from Kiev after their Europa League opener but still, 4-0 to Sunderland? Titus Bramble scored first before an own goal doubled the lead. It was clearly the Black Cats day as Anthony Gardner and Seb Larrson added two more. Steve Bruce somehow gets these random great performances out of his club every once in a while.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Manchester United 3-1 Chelsea</span></p>
<p>Chances, misses, cards, goals, and a missed penalty were all factors in a talking point heavy match. First big event: Chris Smalling gets on the end of an Ashley Young free kick. Here is the thing though, Smalling was offside. Nonetheless, Chelsea responded well and should’ve equalized when Fernando Torres played a ball over for Ramires who shot straight at an outstretched David de Gea. Nani then made it 2-0 with a great run and even better finish outside the box. It all went wrong for Chelsea when United’s Phil Jones went rampaging into the box and after a mix up in the box the ball fell right to Wayne Rooney who made it 3-0 before halftime. Chelsea again responded well, with Fernando Torres scoring just 30 seconds into the second half with a deft chip after sub Nicolas Anelka played him in, more from Torres later. Rooney then missed a penalty and a sitter of his own, but the most glaring miss of all was Torres’. He did incredibly well to round de Gea and but hit his left footed shot wide with a wide open net in front of him. The match commentator summed it up perfectly by saying he just wouldn’t wish that on any player. One had to feel bad for the guy, unless you are a United fan. Neither team would score again and this wild match finished at 3-1. This was a remarkably eventful game of football.</p>
<p>This was an incredible weekend in the Premier League and with the Carling Cup getting under way mid-week, it’s only going to get more dramatic. Team of the week is going to go Tottenham for their thrashing of Liverpool while player of the week is going to Phil Jones of Man United who was outstanding in the Red Devils win over Chelsea.</p>
Adam Johnson
2011-09-19T08:15:00Z
Jose! You Got Some 'Splaining To Do!
A.J. Nelson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Jose!--You-Got-Some-Splaining-To-Do!/-514607331447048835.html
2011-09-19T03:04:00Z
2011-09-19T03:04:00Z
<p>It is difficult to judge any professional team’s coaches or players, but on Sunday there were a few complaints and the need for some answers. The Special One’s team was not so special against Levante. Many fans were complaining at the very start - with Cristiano Ronaldo and Mesut Özil being left on the bench, being replaced by Kaká and Sami Khedira. But there was no question that Ronaldo and Özil needed the rest - Ronaldo needed several stitches after the Dinamo Zagreb game and Özil was clearly exhausted after putting it all on the line in Croatia on Wednesday. The questions came later.</p>
<p>The first 20 minutes of Sunday’s game were typical Madrid. They felt out their opponent, had some good chances and played like the team that fans expect to see every week. But errors started to occur and that back line (Marcelo, Carvalho, Pepe and Ramos) showed weakness once again. That line with its experience and talent should be solid, but it’s not. There truly should be no reason they are failing. And they aren’t failing (most of the time), but the weakness is there. There have been hints of it all season. When Madrid presses forward, they leave themselves exposed in the back. Naturally, a team like Madrid needs to press forward. They have so much talent and fire power in their offense nothing less would be expected, but when any team does that, they face a big risk. Saint Iker Casillas is good, but he is not infallible.</p>
<p>In this game, it was the 38<sup>th</sup> minute that was the game changer…a weak (maybe) foul on Angel Di Maria wasn’t called and he retaliated. Di Maria deserved a card for the retaliation, no question. Did the Levante player who hit him in the face after it deserve one? Yes, but it was a light slap. It was Di Maria’s “acting” that he had taken a direct punch that caused everything to go wrong. Khedira was wrong to shove a Levante player aside who was badgering Di Maria while on the ground (especially carrying a yellow card), but in his defense he was standing up for his teammate who he thought was mauled, who wasn’t. His teammate was pretending for a referee who wasn’t paying attention and wasn’t buying it. The referee had no choice. A second yellow was given, and Khedira was off.</p>
<p>It was the start of the second half where many began to question Mourinho. You are down a man. Your back line has looked shaky for several games. Plus you have a player on who has a yellow and has caused you to lose a second player. How on earth do you decide to replace Benzema (who has had several good chances and kept his head)? I understand wanting to get Ronaldo on, but for Benzema? Suddenly there are finesse players (in Ronaldo and Kaká) playing when you need some muscle. You have Alvaro Arbeloa and Lass Diarra on the bench. Arbeloa has replaced Di Maria frequently and always works hard and admirably and Lass had expressed his desire to perform for Madrid. How do you reward Di Maria’s bad behavior with leaving him on? Going forward, he took at least 2 additional dives, which are not acceptable. I love Madrid and their players, but my biggest complaint this week was their behavior, in particular, Di Maria’s. </p>
<p>Madrid’s players aren’t alone in La Liga (or any league or that matter). There were players on both sides in Sunday’s game that made a meal out of a simple nudge. And there are plenty of players in the league who exhibit similar ridiculous behavior – see also Sergio Busquets ‘I’ve been shot and let me peek to see if everyone knows it’ evidence. Unfortunately, in the 67<sup>th</sup> minute, Madrid’s clock expired. Iker had no chance. The back line failed him and he was faced with a player who had time to pause, set himself and blast a shot. Game, set, match.</p>
<p>After the game, Mourinho said that “the game became even once we were down to ten men.” That may be true, but questions will still be asked. For me, I want to know why Di Maria stayed on that field after causing the calamity. He’s good, but really, Jose, you have some explaining to do! We shall see what happens in the next game. I, for one, hope Mourinho recognizes that you can’t reward bad acting. This wasn’t Di Maria’s first offense, but I hope it will be his last this year. Until next week...<br /><br /><em>A.J. Nelson can be found on Twitter @FootieObsessed</em></p>
A.J. Nelson
2011-09-19T03:04:00Z
Radamel Falcao Expedites the Healing Process
Joseph Zucker
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Radamel-Falcao-Expedites-the-Healing-Process/-142223000481525161.html
2011-09-18T22:49:00Z
2011-09-18T22:49:00Z
The title race is back on. Look out Barcelona because there’s new competition in Madrid.<br /><br />Atleti sputtered a bit against Valencia. It was a bit of the same story as the match against Osasuna. The club lacked the killing instinct in the final third. Atletico had 56% of possession, but only two shots on goal. Manager Gregorio had opted to stick with young striker Adrián, who once again struggled. Although he was partnered with Radamel Falcao, making his first start for Atleti, things were a bit concerning. It was rumored that Atleti's newest signing Diego would try and work an emergency loan deal for his countryman, Brazilian striker Herendinho.<br /><br />Manzano then decided to tweak things a little bit in the club's Europa League match against Celtic. He replaced Adrián with Arda Turan on the left wing and started Diego on the right wing, giving José Reyes a break. It might just prove to be the spark the squad needed. After the Valencia match, there was speculation as to whether Manzano would survive if the club continued with its average form. It took about three minutes to quiet all of that. That's how long it took Falcao to get off the mark for Atletico. Diego followed suit in the 68th minute. Celtic threatened at times during the match, but it was a solid three points for the Rojiblancos. Of course, a win should have been expected. Celtic have only won once in 31 away European matches.<br /><br />There was obviously some momentum coming in to the league match with Racing Santander. Manzano had Reyes take his normal spot on the right wing and Diego dropped to the central midfield. Earlier in the day, former Rojiblanco Sergio Aguero netted a brace against Fulham. The supporters always seem to take each goal he scores pretty hard, and it wasn’t the way they wanted to start the day. But it was the supporters’ new flame who came to the rescue: Radamel Falcao. He did Aguero one better by getting a hat trick. It was his first hat trick in a European domestic league. Falcao should have had four but the official made an incorrect offside call. The entire team played really well. Atletico had 68% of possession for the entire match. The midfield really bossed the game, and Racing hardly posed any threat. Goalkeeper Thibault Courtois could have spent the first 90 minutes on the bench because it wasn’t until the first minute of injury time that Racing got a shot on goal. It was certainly a well-earned victory.<br /><br />I was very critical of the Manzano hiring, but he looks to be exactly who the club needed. He is very level-headed and can help to bring calm to an otherwise hectic club. The 4-3-3 he is using is maximizing the talent he has available to him. The combination of Diego-Arda-Reyes-Falcao looks to be one of the more dangerous attacks in La Liga. But perhaps the biggest surprise is how quickly the new signings have blended in to the club. They have only been here for a few matches, but Diego and Arda have looked like club veterans. They had their fingerprints, or should I say footprints, all over the attack. Arda sent in a cross to Adrián, himself a new signing, for the fourth goal against Racing. Falcao obviously impacted the scoreline. And Diego, especially, is playing well. (He was substituted at halftime of the Racing match after picking up a minor strain in his leg. It doesn’t appear to be serious, and he was only taken off as a precaution.) It seems that Atletico has the Werder Bremen model of Diego and not the Wolfsburg model. <br /><br />Skeptics might say it is still way too early to try and accurately predict a club’s success. And I would agree. There’s no way they’ll finish 9th. Real Madrid lost to Levante and Barcelona looks to be on the decline with the draws against Real Sociedad in the league and AC Milan in the Champions League. (Barca’s 8-0 win against Osasuna simply papers over the cracks.) I’ve got Atletico finishing top of the table now. I’ve already booked my tickets to the Europa League final in Bucharest. And of course, to follow that up, I’ll be traveling to Wembley in 2013 for the Champions League final. If you ask Tim Vickery, he’ll probably tell you this is the most fluid 4-3-3 since Brazil ’82. Wait, what am I saying? That’s an insult to Atletico. Brazil would get played off the park.<br /><br /><strong>Falcaometer</strong> (as of September 18, 2011)<br /><br /><img src="data:image/png;base64,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" alt="" /><br /><br />This week: 2<br /><br />I tracked the Falcaometer at a 6 after the Valencia match, but two wins in a row have significantly lowered it. A difficult week looms, though, with a Wednesday meeting with Sporting Gijon and a real test against Barcelona on Saturday. I expect the Falcaometer to reach its highest rating come Sunday.<br /><br />Also, I am introducing a new feature to these articles. Cleveland Cavaliers fans are familiar with a scoreboard feature called “The Diff.” Basically, it was for the fans who were too lazy to try and tabulate the difference between the scores of the opposing teams. So I am going to create “The Falcaonter” (pronounced Fal-counter). It will tabulate the difference in points between Atletico and whichever team is top of the table at least until they’re mathematically eliminated. Although I expect as the season goes on, it will be the difference between Atleti and the 2nd place team.<br /><br /><strong>Falcaonter</strong><br /><br /><img src="data:image/png;base64,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" alt="" /><br /><br />You can follow me on Twitter <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/JZuckYNWAtleti">@JZuckYNWAtleti</a> or check out my blog, <a href="http://kuytchpotato.blogspot.com/">The Kuytch Potato</a>.
Joseph Zucker
2011-09-18T22:49:00Z
Chelsea Opposition Scout Report: Manchester United
Lamin Oo
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Chelsea-Opposition-Scout-Report:-Manchester-United/-258583447183105963.html
2011-09-16T13:14:00Z
2011-09-16T13:14:00Z
<div><em><strong>Introduction/Rant</strong></em><br /><br />I almost did not write an Opposition Scout Report (OSR) for Manchester United: I thought it was unnecessary. If you are reading this website, which offers you more than the usual “these-are-my-unfiltered-opinions-about-the-club-do-you-agree-or-disagree?” Chelsea blogs, you probably already seen United play this season and paid attention to their tactics and formations. You probably already know that Sir Alex Ferguson sets his team up in a 4-4-2, with Wayne Rooney given the freedom to roam slightly behind his striking partner. If I were to tell you that Ashley Young and Louis Nani have been tearing down opponents on the wings, you would probably slap me in the face for wasting your time with common knowledge. And unless you are a Gaddafi sympathizer who is on the run with your leader, you no doubt realize that Anderson and Tom Cleverly have been running United’s central midfield in impressive manner. So, I thought, “What is the point of writing the usual OSR?”<br /><br /></div>
<div>However, the way many people have written Chelsea off for this game turned my head. Media’s over-reaction and over-dramatization of the way the Red Devils have destroyed oppositions so far this season have made 3-0 Manchester United win (or the likes) the only conclusion that could come from this match. If we only consider the results (the 8-2s and the 3-0s) and the names of the beaten teams (Arsenal and Tottenham), then this popular view, that Chelsea will be destroyed at Old Trafford this weekend, seems reasonable. But there is more to football than score lines and team names, isn’t there?<br /><br /></div>
<div>Are our memories so uselessly fleeting that we forgot how United conceded two preventable goals against their Manchester rivals in the Community Shield? Were our brain cells so overworked in the opening week of the season that they failed to register how West Brom were heading to a 1-1 draw against United with 7 minutes left on the clock – ­only to be unkindly defeated by Young’s double-deflected goal? Has the opening 60 minutes of a game, a period in which Tottenham were able to more than hold their own against the league champions, irrelevant to match analysis? Were anyone honestly surprised that a team consisting of Jenkinson, Djourou, Koscielny, Traore, Coquelin, Ramsey and Rosicky, despite bearing the name of the once <em>Invincibles</em>, were bullied like small school children?<br /><br /></div>
<div>Don’t take my word for it. Just listen to Michael Cox, from <a href="http://www.zonalmarking.net/2011/08/28/manchester-united-8-2-arsenal-wengers-heaviest-defeat-as-arsenal-manager/">Zonal Marking</a>, describing how easy Manchester United had it against Arsenal:</div>
<blockquote>“United were frequently pleasing on the eye, and the quality of their finishing was consistently superb, but they didn’t even have to play particularly well. They passed the ball much better in the 3-0 win over Tottenham and in the 3-2 win over Manchester City. Some of the goals – the Park Ji-Sung shot, the Welbeck header – simply came as they had too much time and space on the ball. Rooney’s three goals came because Arsenal had conceded fouls by diving in. Young’s strikes were superb – yet if they’d been the only goals in a 2-0 win, we would have been here questioning why a right-footed player was allowed to come inside onto his stronger side so easily. Almost everything went wrong for Arsenal.”</blockquote>
Of course, it will be foolish to disregard the attacking threat of Manchester United, but it will also be equally unwise to assume that an improving Chelsea will be battered in the same way some of the United’s opponents were so far this season. The game – win or lose – will be a close one, barring any unexpected incidences (i.e. controversial sending off or a penalty). Here, finally, is the scour report.<br />
<div><br />
<div><strong><em>The Flexible Front Four<br /><br /><img style="margin: 5px auto; display: block;" src="/images/blog/United Possible Starting XI And Front Four Movements.jpg" alt="" /><br /></em></strong>
<div><a href="http://www.zonalmarking.net/2011/08/07/manchester-united-community-shield-2011/">In his tactical review of the Community Shield match between Manchester City and Manchester United</a>, Michael Cox notes that the flexibility of United’s four attacking players was vital to their win over their noisy neighbors. In Rooney and Welback (and later, Hernandez), you have two strikers who can not only lead the attack but can also drop back to midfield to collect passes or go out wide to stretch the opposition’s defense. In Young and Nani, you have two “wingers” who can play on either flanks and also play behind the striker in the middle. These four attackers move in and out of their positions with such fluidity that it is almost impossible to defend them by means of man-marking. Combine this “attacking variation” with clinical finishing and you can see clearly why United has been scoring goals left and right.<br /><br /></div>
<div>Like the gentle but consistent waves that eat away massive rocks on the beach, United’s fluid attack has been able to break down rigid defenses with great efficiency. The only way to defend them is by being as flexible as their attack. Instead of strict man-marking, Chelsea defense must be able to seamlessly shift from marking one United player to another.<br /><br /></div>
<div>If, for instance, Rooney dropped deeper into midfield, the Chelsea center back who is marking him should let him go and allow a defensive midfielder to pick up the England striker. Otherwise, the space created by the defender moving with Rooney will most definitely be exploited by the likes of Young and Nani, who will ran in with pace. <br /><br />This, of course, is the simplest of instances that can take place due to their versatile attacking quartet. Chelsea do have a flexible defense, especially if we use Ivanovic as right back, with Terry and Luiz in the center, Cole on the left and Mikel sitting front of the back four. Aside from Cole who is strictly a left fullback, the other four Chelsea defensive players can play interchangeably. This will be key to holding back United’s attack in Old Trafford.</div>
<div><strong><em><br /></em></strong></div>
<div><em><strong>Battle for the Ball</strong></em></div>
<br /><img style="margin: 5px auto; display: block;" src="/images/blog/CHE vs MTD Possess and SOG.jpg" alt="" width="543" height="127" /><br />
<div>Interestingly, despite their massive score lines in recent games, Manchester United did not have overwhelming possession percentages. Sure they did see more of the ball than their opponent on the day, but the Red Devils’ numbers aren’t as high as Chelsea’s. Purely looking at the possession statistics, Chelsea keeps the ball better than United. Furthermore, seeing that United have less ball possession at home (53% and 56%) than away (59% and 58%), it is likely that Chelsea will have more possession at Old Trafford this Sunday.<br /><br /></div>
But, of course, having higher possession is not always the good thing: it may simply indicate that a team takes longer to build up an attack. Sometimes, it is offensively more efficient to have a little bit less possession with faster attacking build-up.<br />
<div><br />At any rate, United has done better with their possession than Chelsea: they took 2.5 more Shots on Goals (SOG) than the Blues on average despite having 9% less ball possession. Efficient might be the word to describe Manchester United’s attack at this moment (can you get more efficient than scoring TWO goals despite having only ONE shot on goal against West Brom?!). Man of the moment Wayne Rooney, by the way, is responsible for 13 of United’s SOGs after 21 attempts (61.9% shot accuracy).<br /><br /><img style="margin: 5px auto; display: block;" src="/images/blog/Man Utd Tackles.jpg" alt="" width="535" height="318" /><br />Another intriguing aspect of this game is going to be the effort both teams put into winning the ball back when they lose possession. This season, both Manchester United and Chelsea have been consistent in putting oppositions under pressure everywhere on the pitch when they lose the ball. Chart 1 above shows all the tackles that United players committed in games against Arsenal (left) and Tottenham (right). It is clear that United players are willing to tackle and retain possession anywhere on the pitch. Now, compare that to Chelsea’s recent tackles against Stoke (left) and Norwich (right) in Chart 2 below.<br /><br /><img style="margin: 5px auto; display: block;" src="/images/blog/Chelsea Tackles Stoke and Norwich.jpg" alt="" width="537" height="320" /><br />
<div>The two, Chart 1 and 2, look almost identical. There are tackles, some successful and other not, all over the pitch. With this pressing attitude from both teams, we will see many frantic overturns of possession back and forth, unless/until, one team is able to sustain possession and set the pace of the game. In all likelihood, it will be Chelsea who will control possession.<br /><br /></div>
<div><strong><em>Think Inside the Box</em></strong></div>
<div><strong><br /></strong></div>
<div>Manchester United’s attack has been so dominant this season that very little has been talked about their defense. In fact, the only topic that hit the headlines concerning United defense is their goalkeeper – who, remember, is part of the defense too – looking very shaky between the sticks. Since his unimpressive Premier League debut against West Brom, Daivd de Gea has seen plenty of shots hit towards his goal from every angle, near and far, hoping the young keeper will fumble. In the four opening games of this season, there have been 25 SOGs from United’s opposition – 13 of them (52%) came from outside the 18 yard box; shots, if I may, taken with 25 % belief and 75% hope.<br /><br /></div>
</div>
<img style="margin: 5px auto; display: block;" src="/images/blog/David-De-Gea-Manchester-United1_2636746.jpg" alt="" width="319" height="239" /><br />
<div>The fact of the matter is that de Gea is a solid shot stopper(if you can erase his attempt to save Dzeko’s shot in the Community Shield). He (at least according to my Facebook Fantasy Football statistics) has made 24 saves so far and is only topped by Brad Friedel’s 25 in that particular stats ranking. He is not be easily beaten by optimistic shots from outside the box. United has conceded only 3 times this season and all of the goals were resulted from shots inside the 18 yard box.<br /><br /></div>
<div>That does not put Chelsea at too much of a disadvantage because we tend to score from inside the box anyway. Only 1 out of 7 goals Chelsea have scored so far this season has come from outside the 18 yard box (see under: Bosingwa, Jose). Chelsea have the creativity, especially in the likes of Mata, Sturridge and Anelka, to fashion goal scoring opportunities inside the box and they will pose a tough test for United’s defense.<br /><br /></div>
<div><strong><em>The Verdict</em></strong></div>
<div><strong><br /></strong></div>
The game is going to be a lot closer than most people think. A win for Chelsea is a little hopeful but it is not a stretch. Chelsea’s defense will have to execute a near perfect performance in order to keep United attacking threats at bay. There will be a heated battle in the midfield for possession and it may result in a fragmented game, until one side decides to take control. In order to score, Chelsea will have to weave their way into United box since shots from outside the box most certainly will be saved or blocked. A perfect Chelsea performance will result in a 1-0 victory.<br />
<p><em>Carefree, wherever you may be...</em></p>
<p>You can follow me on twitter <a href="http://www.twitter.com/carefreechronic">@CareFreeChronic</a>.</p>
<p>You can read my other posts on <a href="http://www.carefreechronicles.blogspot.com/">my blog</a> or at <a href="http://bluetinted.com/">BlueTinted.com</a>.</p>
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Lamin Oo
2011-09-16T13:14:00Z
UEFA Champions League Round 1 Review
James Cranford
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/UEFA-Champions-League-Round-1-Review/-677770281428477740.html
2011-09-15T03:58:00Z
2011-09-15T03:58:00Z
<strong><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Tuesday, September 13, 2011:<br /><br />Group E:<br /><br /></strong><em>Chelsea 2-0 Bayer Leverkusen<br /><br /></em><strong></strong>The first match saw England runners-up Chelsea host German runners-up Bayer Leverkusen at Stamford Bridge and welcome former blue, Michael Ballack, back where he also received a warm welcome from the Blues fans. <br /><br />The first half ended goalless with the home side looking the more dangerous as both Danny Sturridge and Fernando Torres came close for the Pensioners. <br /><br /><img src="/images/blog/luiz-leverkusen.jpg" alt="" width="273" height="185" /><br /><br />The second half saw Michael Ballack with a glorious chance that was well saved by Petr Cech, and what a return that would have been for the former German captain. Chelsea finally had their breakthrough through David Luiz who made a run from midfield, passed to Ashley Cole, who passed to Torres, who returned the favor the Luiz, who curled the ball in the bottom corner for the lead. Chelsea sealed the game in stoppage time as Torres broke in on the right and unselfishly passed to Juan Mata who easily tapped in for the win.<br /><br /><em>KRC Genk 0-0 Valencia<br /><br /></em>The Belgium Champions were back in the competition for the first time in nine years and started at home against the third-placed Spaniards. <br /><br />Genk repelled a lot of Valencia pressure in the first half including a chance for Pablo Piatti who sped down the left and crossed to Roberto Soldado who couldn't finish. Scoreless at the break. <br /><br />Genk started the better of the two sides in the second half but couldn't get a shot past Diego Alves. Daniel Parejo hit a thunderous volley for the visitors but Genk Goalkeeper Laszio Koteles made the save. Then the best chance came from an Adil Rami overhead that beat Koteles but came off the crossbar. <br /><br /><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Next Matches:<br /></span>Bayer Leverkusen v. KRC Genk<br />Valencia v. Chelsea<br /><br /><strong>Group F:<br /><br /></strong><em>Borrussia Dortmund 1-1 Arsenal<br /><br /></em>German Champions Dortmund welcomed Arsenal to their boisterous crowd. <br /><br />Arsenal had to hold onto early pressure from Dortmund in the first half, but it was the English side who scored first from Robin Van Persie who was sent through by Theo Walcott and sent it passed the Dortmund Keeper. Arsenal led at the break.<br /><br /><img src="/images/blog/perisic-arsenal.jpg" alt="" width="299" height="223" /><br /><br />Arsenal looked as though they would hang on for a terrific three points at the BVB Stadion Dortmund but substitue Ivan Perisic hit a screamer of a volley into the top corner leaving Szczesny rooted to the floor. One point each.<br /><br /><em>Olympiacos 0-1 Marseille<br /><br /></em>Marseille were able to get a valuable three points on the road at the Georgios Karaiskakis Stadium. Lucho Gonzales nabbed the winner for the Frenchmen tapping in a wonderful cross from the right by Jeremy Morel. However, Rod Fanni was sent off in stoppage time and will miss the next match. <br /><br /><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Next Matches:<br /></span>Arsenal v. Olympiacos<br />Marseille v. Dortmund<br /><em></em><em></em><strong></strong><em></em><br /><strong>Group G<br /><br /></strong><em>APOEL Nicosia 2-1 Zenit St. Petersburg<br /><br /></em>The Cypriot Champions gained their first ever Group Stage win scoring twice in the second half in as many minutes to defeat the Russians. <br /><br />The first half saw no goals scored but Zenit nabbed the opener through Konstantin Zyryanov. The lead lasted ten minutes as Gustavo Manduca cleaned up and finished an effort that Helio Pinto scuffed in front of goal. Just two minutes later, Ailton found himself free on the right an coolly finished off the attack for the lead and the win. <br /><br /><em>FC Porto 2-1 Shakhtar Donetsk <br /><br /></em>Last year's Europa League winners started<em></em> this year's Champions League campaign with a home victory over the Ukrainian quarter-finalists from a year ago. <br /><br /><em></em><em><img src="/images/blog/Hulk-celebrates-scoring-P-007.jpg" alt="" width="297" height="178" /></em><br /><br /><br />Luiz Adriano put Shakhtar 1-0 up early after a shot from Willian looked to have been secured by Porto Keeper, Helton, but Luiz Adriano was there to clean up the spoils. Hulk, who missed a penalty earlier, hit a fierce shot passed the keeper from 35 meters. <br /><br />The second half saw the Portuguese Champions take the lead through Kleber after he tapped in a pass from James Rodriguez from the left. Shakhtar finished the game with nine men having both Yaroslav Rahitskiy and Dmytro Chygrynskiy sent off.<br /><br /><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Next Matches<br /></span>Shakhtar Donetsk v. APOEL Nicosia<br />Zenit St. Petersburg v. FC Porto<br /><br /><strong>Group H<br /><br /></strong><em>Barcelona 2-2 AC Milan<br /><br /></em>The glamour tie of the round came from the Nou Camp as the title holders, Barcelona, faced seven-time winners, AC Milan. <em><br /><br /><img style="float: right; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Thiago-Silva-barcelona-200x120.jpg" alt="" width="260" height="156" /></em>The game was off to a fast start as Alexandre Pato scored after 25 seconds bursting past the Barcelona defense. The Spaniards were able to respond in the first half through that man Messi who burst by three Milan defenders and squared a ball to Pedro who tapped in for the equalizer. <br /><br />The second half saw Barcelona take the lead through David Villa 30 meter free kick that dipped over the wall and past Abbiati in the Milan net. Milan were able to get a last-gasp equalizer from a corner that Thiago Silva powerfully headed home and gained a valuable road point for the Italian Champions.<br /><br /><br /><em>Plzen 1-1 BATE Borisov<br /><br /></em>The Czech Republic Champions, Plzen, made their Champions League debut and made the breakthrough just before halftime from Marek Bakos. <br /><br />BATE were able to level the score in the 69' through Renan Bressan and share the spoils in the Czech Republic. <br /><br /><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Next Matches<br /></span>AC Milan v. Viktoria Plzen <br />BATE Borisov v. Barcelona<br /><br /><strong>Wednesday, September 14, 2011<br /><br />Group A<br /><br /></strong><em>Manchester City 1-1 Napoli<br /><br /></em>Both teams finished third in their respective league campaigns a season ago and both made their Champions League debut on Wednesday. <br /><br />The first half ended goalless even though City held most of the possession and Napoli were looking to counter through Edinson Cavanni and Ezequiel Lavezzi.<br /><em></em><strong><br /><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/cavani-mancity.jpg" alt="" width="338" height="230" /><br /><br /></strong><em></em><em></em><strong></strong>The Italians made the breakthrough in the second half after Maggio won the ball and started a counter in which he fed Cavani who slotted the ball in between Joe Hart's legs and into the net for the lead. The lead did not last long, however, as Alexandar Kolarov coolly placed a free kick into the corner of the net and gained the equalizer for a share of the spoils at the Etihad stadium. <em><br /><br />Villareal 0-2 Bayern Munich<br /><br /></em>This year's hosts of the final, Bayern Munich, traveled to Spain and came away with three points to gain the early advantage in the group. <br /><br />It only took seven minutes for the Bavarians to take the lead, with Frank Ribery and Tony Kroos combining to score the opener. In the second half, substitute Rafhina came in on the left hand side and blasted a shot past Villareal Goalkeeper Diego Lopez and sealed the win.<br /><br /><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Next Matches<br /></span>Bayern Munich v. Manchester City<br />Napoli v. Villareal<br /><br /><strong>Group B<br /><br /></strong><em>Internazionale 0-1 Trabzonspor<br /><br /><img style="float: right; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/trabzsonspor-inter.jpg" alt="" /></em>The shock of the round came from Turkish runners-up, Trabzonspor, who weren't even in the competition initially, as they went the San Siro and defeated the 2010 winners. <br /><br />The goal came from a Halil Altintop blast that ricocheted off the crossbar and Ondrej Celustka was first to react and score the Turkish side's first ever goal in the Champions League proper. <br /><br />The loss means the seat gets even hotter for Inter coach Gian Piero Gasperini with a game against Roma coming next weekend. Will we see him in charge next when Inter travel to Moscow in two weeks time?<br /><br /><em>Lille 2-2 CSKA Moscow<br /><br /></em>The French Champions looked to have claimed all three points at home, but a late equalizer denied them of that right and the points were shared at the Lille Métropole.<br /><br />The first half started brightly for Lille as they pressed to find the opener. It finally came through Moussa Sow with a back-heel following a pass from David Rozenhal.<br /><br />It took 12 minutes after the break for Lille to double their advantage, Benoit Pedretti put the ball in the net. Then, Moscow got found their groove through Seydou Doumbia who scored twice in the last 20 minutes to steal a valuable road point.<br /><br /><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Next Matches<br /></span>CSKA Moscow v. Internazionale<br />Trabzonspor v. Lille<br /><br /><strong>Group C<br /><br /></strong><em>Basel 2-1 Otelul Galati<br /><br /></em>Basel earned three points in a game they would have thought they needed to win entering the tie. Basel got on the score sheet first in the first half through Fabian Frei's header. <br /><br />The second half saw the Romanian's equalize through Morius Zena, scoring their first ever Champions League goal, who pounced on a loose ball in front of the net. But, the game was put to bed by the home side as Alexander Frei converted a penalty and sealed the points.<br /><br /><em>Benfica 1-1 Manchester United<br /><br /></em>Last year's finalists, Manchester United, took on arguably their toughest test in this year's Group Stage by traveling to Lisbon to play Benfica. <br /><br /> <img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/giggs-benfica.jpeg" alt="" width="279" height="194" /><br /><br />It was a couple first half goals, first from the home side through Oscar Cardozo after he shook off Johnny Evans and slotted the ball home. But, the old Manchester United guard, Ryan Giggs, scoring in his 22nd straight season and 17 straight Champions League match, thunderously equalized right before the interval.<br /><br />The share of the spoils is how it ended and both teams will not be overly disappointed with a point.<br /><br /><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Next Matches<br /><br /></span>Manchester United v. Basel<br />Otelul Galati v. Benfica<br /><br /><strong>Group D<br /><br /></strong><em>Ajax 0-0 Lyon<br /><br /></em>Not much to comment on in terms of goals, but Lyon had to withstand some second half pressure from the Dutch side to hold on and gain a share of the spoils at the Amsterdam ArenA.<br /><br /><em>Dinamo Zagreb 0-1 Real Madrid<br /><br /></em><img style="float: left; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/angeldimariteamceleb.jpg" alt="" />Real Madrid had to make the trip to Croatia and found a way to get three points on the road. The Croatian Champions will find points hard to come by in this group but played well v. last season's semi-finalists. <br /><br />After a goalless first half, Angel DiMaria was able to put the Spaniards up and grab the three points. <br /><br /><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Next Matches<br /></span>Lyon v. Dinamo Zagreb<br />Real Madrid v. Ajax<br /><em></em><strong></strong><em></em><em></em><strong></strong><em></em><em></em><strong></strong><br /><strong></strong>
James Cranford
2011-09-15T03:58:00Z
Liver n'Onions: Torres From Grace
Nash Larson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Liver-nOnions:-Torres-From-Grace/310588677712786796.html
2011-09-14T10:48:00Z
2011-09-14T10:48:00Z
<p><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Chelsea faced German runner ups Bayer Leverkusen yesterday, with Torres reinstated to the starting line-up after being left out of the starting XI last weekend against Sunderland. With only one goal in 18 league matches for Chelsea, Fernando Torres once again failed to get on the score sheet in a game that he did absolutely everything - but notch a goal. He tracked back to aid in defense, turned defender Castro's hide a few times, and showed invention, personified by an over-head kick that almost that nearly landed in the back of the net. Most notably he had two assists setting up both David Luiz's curler and Mata's tap-in securing a 2-o win for the Blues against Leverkusen. </span></p>
<p><span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">It's a sad sight to see a player I absolutely adore be so unlucky. This admiration is felt now more than ever for the fact he's not playing for Liverpool, or else we would have these problems. I remember it feeling odd how happy I was when he scored his first and only goal for the Blues, having never been so ecstatic over the fact a Chelsea player had scored. Talk about twilight zone level. It doesn't matter what team he's playing for, I can't forget that hair-raising excitement he impressed upon me overtime he touched the ball in Red, leaving me waiting with baited-breath for the net ripple. Eternally endeared to the player, his magical goals he seemed to score at will in Red seem to have dried up completely in West London. Strikers score goals, but his lack thereof should not take away the value that he still possesses in the Blue of Chelsea, having fellow</span><span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> players Mata and Luiz pointing at the Spaniard saying, " Gracias, Nino," after serving them up the chance to score.</span></span></p>
<p><span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Manager Andre Villas-Boas hoped that dropping the striker would inspire him to up his game, and get back in form. The fact he started against Leverkusen came as a shock - enhanced even more after being quoted in a recent interview with </span></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Spain’s Primera Liga calling his fellow Chelsea teammates "old and slow", hinting at the fact that they are in part to blame for his mis-firings. Torres was quick to say he has been misquoted and it was not meant as slight against his teammates. Mis-quoted or not, it is water under the bridge as it's what's done on the pitch that matters. Having listened to the interview myself I can honestly say that the quote causing all this fanfare is as harmful as his goal threat at the moment. This uproar is a load of bollocks and gives clearer reason to why players' give such mundane answers in interviews, for fear of encoring such nonsensical controversy in the wake of a comment. The fact that he has netted just once after his 50 million pound move from Liverpool, would prove supremely troubling to even the great intellectuals of the past, looking to their crystal balls for answers to only summon," Where have to goals gone, lad?"</span></p>
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<p><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">If you go onto google images and search Fernando Torres Chelsea, every image</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">is one of him scowling, upset, looking pissed and unhappy...it's sad but brilliant!</span></p>
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<p><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">If he were a Native American, this would be the opportune moment for the out of form striker to set out upon a vision quest, to find himself, becoming one with the pitch he plays on. We all know he has the skills in his locker, the tantalizing Torres, the tormenting and the terrorizing. This vision quest I speak of would come in the shape of Torres returning back to home town club Atletico Madrid and starting anew. He needs to rediscover the hunger, and the will to dominate, felt by playing for passion, and not for money. Since moving to Chelsea with a 50 million pound price tag, the expectation seems too much for the man, unable to cope with the pressure. Moving back "home", is the confidence booster that he needs. A pay cut should be expected ,but that's is the least of his worries as I cannot fathom a scenario of him coming good anytime soon for Chelsea. I would like to, and I know it's certainly possible but I don't see it. He has tried growing his hair long again, even highlighting it slightly, but his gorgeous locks have yet to help his finishing prowess. When that goal came that rainy night at West Ham, I thought the flood gates would open, the goal acting as a catalyst....but sadly this prophecy did not hold water.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">More @ http://spotkickjournalism.blogspot.com/</span></p>
Nash Larson
2011-09-14T10:48:00Z
Mixed Fortunes in Scotland
Sandy Thin
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Mixed-Fortunes-in-Scotland/605550355683294779.html
2011-09-13T17:38:00Z
2011-09-13T17:38:00Z
<p>It has been a fortnight of mixed fortunes for Scottish football. We went from the high of Celtic being handed a lifeline into the Europa League (which make no mistake is a high for any Scottish football fan), to the terrible low as we were robbed the three points which would have gone some way to taking us to our first Euros in well over a decade. We moved on however, and gained a reasonable three points against Lithuania at Hampden before resuming SPL action this weekend.</p>
<p>On the 25<sup>th</sup> of August, it seemed like it might be the end to Scottish fans of the game; all three teams had lost their Europa League qualification ties leaving no Scottish teams in European competition for the first time in over 30 years. However, Celtic’s opponents, FC Sion, had played several illegitimate players and were therefore excluded from the tournament, leaving Celtic to take their place in Group I. Despite this second chance, they have been placed in a very challenging group with Atlético Madrid, Udinese and Rennes, which they will do very well to qualify from. On Thursday, they will travel to Spain for their first match, against Atlético. Even with the Madrid team losing key players such as Sergio Aguero, Diego Forlan and David De Gea they are a formidable opponent and if Celtic can take anything from the game it will be a great achievement.</p>
<p>As I say though, this happiness was short-lived as the Scottish National Team met the Czech Republic at Hampden. It was a hugely entertaining game of football in which Scotland took the lead twice through goals from Kenny Miller and Darren Fletcher. However, as has seemed to happen at some stage in every qualification cycle, something went wrong. This was possibly the worst though, worse than the terrible refereeing against Italy in qualifying for Euro 08, worse even than Chris Iwelumo’s horrific miss against Norway, his shot the only thing from Scotland to reach South Africa in that cycle. And yet again, the luck of the Scots prevailed. Going into injury time Scotland were leading 2-1, at which point Czech forward Jan Rezek made a dive worthy of an Olympic gold. Obviously the penalty was given and converted leaving two points behind the Czechs and needing an away win against the European and World Champions along with other results to have a chance of qualifying.</p>
<p>Back in the SPL, things were back to usual as the Old Firm returned to their allocated seats in first and second place in the league. Rangers edged a 1-0 win over a 10-man Dundee Utd to move to the top of the table, while a brace from James Forrest helped Celtic gain a 4-0 victory over third-placed Motherwell. A goalless draw saw Hibs and Aberdeen fall to the bottom of the table with only 3 and 4 points respectively after six games.</p>
Sandy Thin
2011-09-13T17:38:00Z
Premier League Recap (September 10-12)
Adam Johnson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Premier-League-Recap-September-10-12/283630853606980402.html
2011-09-13T00:50:00Z
2011-09-13T00:50:00Z
<p>Premier League Recap (September 10-12)</p>
<p>With the transfer window now closed and the international break over, the Premier League came back in full force this past weekend with every team in action. There were no real marquee games this weekend but many players were making their debuts for their new clubs after deadline day deals like, bnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnbbbbbbn Raul Meireles for Chelsea, Per Mertesacker for Arsenal, and Niklas Bendtner for Sunderland (formerly of Arsenal). And we all know Arsenal is a team full of talking points at the moment as they really needed to respond well after their 8-2 thrashing at the hands of Manchester United last week. Here is how their match went along with the nine others.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Arsenal 1-0 Swansea</span></p>
<p>Three points is what they got but there is definitely still something missing from this Arsenal side. The lone goal came after a big mistake by Swansea keeper Michel Vorm, a guy who I have praised on this blog. He rolled the ball out straight into the back of a defender and Andrei Arshavin was right there to finish. Arsenal did create more chances this game but still almost gave up the lead as Swansea pushed hard late in the match. </p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Everton 2-2 Aston Villa</span></p>
<p>Everton led 1-0 at the break in an attacking game. Leon Osman got the first for the home side before Stilyan Petrov leveled on a wonder strike. The Blues again took the lead on a Leighton Baines penalty after Fabian Delph foolishly took down Phil Jagielka. Gabby Agbonlahor nabbed an away point for Villa thanks to a perfect Marc Albrighton cross.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Sunderland 1-2 Chelsea</span></p>
<p>In this week’s game of “which striker should I start”, AVB chose the young Danny Sturridge over Fernando Torres and Didier Drogba. That move turned out to be a masterstroke as Sturridge got the goal, on a nice backheeled shot, to double Chelsea’s lead over the Black Cats. John Terry got the first for the Blues whereas Dong-Won Ji got a consolation goal late for Sunderland. It would finish 2-1 and Chelsea seemed like they may have been looking ahead to the Champions League game against Bayer Leverkusen on Tuesday.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Manchester City 3-0 Wigan</span></p>
<p>The City train kept on rolling with another three points and another three goals. Sergio Aguero scored the opener and Carlos Tevez had a chance to make his mark but he saw his penalty saved. Then David Silva, Samir Nasri, and Aguero linked up for the Argentine’s second goal. Aguero would add even a third as he and City continued to trounce their opponents.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Stoke 1-0 Liverpool</span></p>
<p>Liverpool’s first loss of the season came on Saturday at Stoke thanks to poor finishing, a thunderous penalty from Jon Walters, and bad refereeing decisions (according to Kenny Dalglish). Suarez and co. could not score at the Brittania and Stoke goalie, Asmir Begovich, had a fantastic match.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Wolves 0-2 Tottenham</span></p>
<p>Bottom of the table Tottenham faced top five Wolves on Saturday and the form guide proved wrong in this case. Scott Parker and Emmanuel Adebayor made their debuts for Spurs and those two hooked up for the opening goal with the former assisting on the latter’s goal. Jermaine Defoe would add another as Tottenham got their first points of the season.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Bolton 0-5 Manchester United</span></p>
<p>Look all you really need to know about United right now is that they are passing the ball brilliantly, finishing clinically, and looking like they just want Barcelona right now. Wayne Rooney and Javier Harnandez seem like they are right on the same page and those two combined for all five goals. Rooney with a hat trick and Chicharito with two, sorry Bolton.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Norwich City 0-1 West Brom</span></p>
<p>Peter Odemwingie got the only goal in this one as West Brom claimed the away win despite a penalty miss from the Nigerian.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Fulham 1-1 Blackburn</span></p>
<p>This wasn’t a classic match-up by any means but each club’s goals were definitely of note. Blackburn opened the scoring with a Ruben Rochina left footed strike but Bobby Zamora equalized with a lefty of his own. The match would stay this way and each team left with a point.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">QPR 0-0 Newcastle </span></p>
<p>In a pretty dull to average Monday evening game, QPR and Newcastle played to a 0-0 draw and each claimed a point. Joey Barton, coincidentally, made his debut for QPR against his old club.</p>
<p>The Manchester clubs just keep on rolling. Now we will see how Man City handles a Champions League week with their game against Napoli on Wednesday. My team of the week has to go to Manchester United this week and their “anything you can do I can do better” performance. Mr. Wayne Rooney gets this week’s top player spot.</p>
Adam Johnson
2011-09-13T00:50:00Z
B Is For Bayer: Get To Know Chelsea's CL Opponent Bayer Leverkusen
Lamin Oo
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/B-Is-For-Bayer:-Get-To-Know-Chelseas-CL-Opponent-Bayer-Leverkusen/575166717540574578.html
2011-09-12T17:20:00Z
2011-09-12T17:20:00Z
Chelsea are set to begin their 2011-2012 Champions League campaign at home against the German side Bayer Leverkusen this Tuesday. Ahead of this game, I have done a little bit of research on how Bayer Leverkusen have been doing this season in the Bundesliga. They have had a decent start to their season (L, W, W, D, W) and are ranked 4<sup>th</sup><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>in the league with 10 points from the first 5 games.<br /><br /><img style="margin: 5px auto; display: block;" src="/images/blog/Leverkusen League Results.jpg" alt="" width="490" height="126" /><br /><br />
<div>In the opening game of this season, Bayer Leverkusen suffered a 2-0 defeat away to Mainz, who finished 5<sup>th</sup> in the Bundesliga last season. Bayer had a couple of goal-scoring opportunities, but good goalkeeping by Mainz’s Heinz Muller prevented Bayer from finding the back of the net. On the other end, Bayer goalkeeper Fabian Giefer, selected ahead of David Yelldell following Bayer’s 4-3 defeat to Dynamo Dreden in the DFB-Pokal, was at fault for Mainz’s first goal. Giefer sliced his clearance and allowed Mainz’s striker Sami Allagui to pounce and finish from an acute angle.</div>
<div><br />After that game, Bayer Leverkusen manager Robin Dutt dropped Fabian Giefer and deployed on-loan goalkeeper Bernd Leno between the sticks. Bayer has, since, conceded only one goal in the next four league games. The stand-in keeper Leno didn’t concede a goal for about 290 minutes since his debut against Werder Bremen. To be fair to Giefer though, Leno has to make only 8 saves in the following 4 games while Giefer has to make 7 in that one game against Mainz. It is also fair to say that Bayer’s defense tightens up after the loss in the opening game. Bayer kept 3 consecutive clean sheets in games against Werder Bremen, VfB Stuttgart and the current champion Borrussia Dortmund.</div>
<br /><img style="margin: 5px auto; display: block;" src="/images/blog/Leverkusen League Goal Stats.jpg" alt="" width="537" height="90" /><br /><br />Bayer’s goal tally up to this point (6 goals scored in 5 games) has been flattered by their recent 4-1 thrashing of the newly promoted side FC Augsburg. Without that result, Bayer only have 2 goals to their credit and they have failed to scored in 2 occasions in the last 5 games. Attacking left midfielder Sidney Sam and forward Stefan Kieβling have scored 2 goals each and are the current joint top goal scorers for Bayer. Most notably the pair combined to score a neat first goal against FC Augsburg; Kieβling executed a lovely turn and found Sam who finished calmly with his right foot to equalize within minutes of conceding a goal (see video below). <br /><br /><img style="margin: 5px auto; display: block;" src="/images/blog/Leverkusen Starting XI.jpg" alt="" /><br />Michal Kadlec also pose considerable goal threat – both have recorded 4 Shots On Goal (the same number of SOGs as Sam and Kieβling) in the league so far. Kadlec, the left back, loves to get forward and shot from long range. He scored the decisive goal against Werder Bremen – finding the back of the net from close range after his initial header was blocked in a corner situation. He also takes free kicks from dangerous positions (think Leighton Baines or Aleksandar Kolarov in the BPL). Against VfB Stuttgart, Kadlec unleashed a 25-yard shot which was parried Stuttgart goalkeeper, but forward Kieβling was there to tap in the loose ball. [Note: In that game, former Chelsea defender Khalid Boulahrouz, who now plays for Stuttgart, got sent off for flipping the referee off (6:33 mins). Below, I’ve provided the link to the video. A must see!]<br /><br />Although Bayer have kept 3 clean sheets in 5 games, they do have defensive weakness that is masked by brilliant goalkeeping and luck. The goalless draw against Borussia Dortmund was a game full of goal-scoring chances from both teams – real end to end stuff. But great goalkeeping from both sides, especially Leno who pulled out some swift reaction saves, kept the score line at 0-0.<br /><br /><img style="margin: 5px auto; display: block;" src="/images/blog/Bremen Miss Against Bayer.jpg" alt="" width="512" height="308" /><br />Against Werder Bremen (see picture above), Bayer were lucky not to have conceded a goal as Werder Bremen forward missed a total sitter from about 5 yards out. A low cross from the right was swung dangerously into Bayer’s six-yard box, but Werder Bremen forward, who got to the ball ahead of everyone, shot it over the crossbar.<br /><br /><img style="margin: 5px auto; display: block;" src="/images/blog/Stuttgart Miss Against Bayer.jpg" alt="" width="507" height="331" /><br /><br /><img style="margin: 5px auto; display: block;" src="/images/blog/Stuttgart Miss Against Bayer 2.jpg" alt="" /><br /><br />
<div>It was a similar story against Stuttgart. Not once, but twice, low crosses from the right are allowed to skip right between the Bayer defense and their goalkeeper. One bounced right between the legs of a Stuttgart forward as he tried to score from close range, while another rolled safely away from the goal as the same Stuttgart player failed to reach it.</div>
This game is not going to be a walk in the park for Chelsea. Bayer Leverkusen, who finished 2<sup>nd</sup> in the league last season, are going to give Chelsea a decent game. However, I believe that Chelsea are going to win this game. Andre Villas-Boas, of course, will want to win his first Champions League game, but he will also expect Chelsea to build on the improving performance against Sunderland and put on a good show for the fans in a big European night at Stamford Bridge. <br />
<div><strong><br />Video Highlights of Bayer Leverkusen:</strong></div>
<div><strong><br /></strong></div>
<div><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iOdgdqmu4pM&feature=player_embedded">Bayer Leverkusen vs Borussia Dortmund</a> (0 - 0)</div>
<div><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LjMBRalsPvc&feature=player_embedded">VfB Stuttgart vs Bayer Leverkusen</a> (0 - 1)</div>
<div><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RBVDSI3aIhg">FC Augsburg vs Bayer Leverkusen</a> (1 - 4)</div>
<p><em>Carefree, wherever you may be...</em></p>
<p>You can follow me on twitter <a href="http://www.twitter.com/carefreechronic">@CareFreeChronic</a>.</p>
<p>You can read my other posts on <a href="http://www.carefreechronicles.blogspot.com/">my blog</a> or at <a href="http://bluetinted.com/">BlueTinted.com</a>.</p>
Lamin Oo
2011-09-12T17:20:00Z
The Difference Is In The Finish
A.J. Nelson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/The-Difference-Is-In-The-Finish/-37805368495481179.html
2011-09-11T21:41:00Z
2011-09-11T21:41:00Z
<p>As I was settling in to watch Real Madrid play Getafe on Saturday, I had to look at my text message twice. Barcelona drew with Real Sociedad? What? When I last checked, Barcelona was comfortably leading 2-0. They are the consistent team, once they have a lead, they rarely lose it. OK, so they didn’t start some of their top players including David Villa and Lionel Messi, but Cesc Fabregas and Alexis Sanchez are no slouches. Wait, Barcelona had a 2-0 lead when Villa came in? Messi and Iniesta came in as well? Shocking and completely unexpected are the words that come to mind.</p>
<p>Knowing that final score, as a Madridista I was relaxed as I sat down to watch Real Madrid take on Getafe. All too quickly I remembered that there is a reason I should not listen to the “pundits” who say that La Liga is a 2 horse race. I have little doubt that the other 18 teams in the top tier of La Liga could defeat some of the top English, German or Italian teams. They can beat Barcelona and Real Madrid too.</p>
<p>Getafe looked the weaker side to start especially given Madrid’s multiple chances out of the gate. At the 13<sup>th</sup> minute, Mesut Özil set up Karim Benzema with a strong pass that Benzema rocketed in to the back of the net - time to settle in for a nice easy game and 3 points for Madrid. Getafe had other ideas. Continuous pressure, questionable defending and fancy dribbling by Getafe’s Miku brought them level with Madrid on the 39<sup>th</sup> minute.</p>
<p>The second half would start in the same manner as the first ended, with Getafe pressing and Madrid failing to capitalize on opportunities. It would be an accurate penalty call, but inaccurate placement that would allow Madrid to again take the lead in the 59<sup>th</sup> minute as Cristiano Ronaldo converted a penalty kick. Getafe’s keeper, Miguel Moyà, would be close, but not close enough. Getafe’s anger and frustration was understandable. That penalty kick was a game changer. </p>
<p>As the game progressed, Madrid would continue to press, but Getafe refused to go away and a 2-2 draw seemed a definite possibility, but then Getafe would face the combination of Ronaldo and Benzema. Ronaldo drew the keeper’s and defenders’ attention and then sent the ball across the pitch to an open Benzema who finished with perfection. Madrid had a solid 3-1 lead at 69 minutes. The celebrations would be short-lived though as Getafe resumed pressure and found a second goal less than 4 minutes later. Substitutions were made and it was Kaká’s finesse and Gonzalo Higuaín’s power that would seal the victory with a fantastic goal in the 87<sup>th</sup> minute. Real Madrid would take their second victory and remain leaders in La Liga.</p>
<p>As I am sure Roger Federer can tell you right about now, it’s not about how you start, it is about how you finish. Federer had two match points and Novak Djokovic’s U.S. Open run looked over. It wasn’t and Djokovic is now in the finals. Barcelona relaxed with a two goal lead and then couldn’t find solutions to Real Sociedad’s attacks and dropped points. For Real Madrid, they never underestimated their opponent. If they had backed off, Getafe would have beaten them, but Los Blancos kept fighting to the end and finished with perfection. And that's the key for Real Madrid to become the champions - it’s all about the finish.<br /><br /><em>A.J. Nelson can be found on Twitter @FootieObsessed</em></p>
A.J. Nelson
2011-09-11T21:41:00Z
Galatasaray pegged back in opener
Aydin Reyhan
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Galatasaray-pegged-back-in-opener/-984455424693497269.html
2011-09-11T19:38:00Z
2011-09-11T19:38:00Z
Galatasaray, who are considered one of this year’s favorites to win the title, have started out awfully by losing their opening game. There wasn’t much scoring, but 2-0 is an absolute embarrassment for a side with Gala’s caliber.
<p>The away side, Gala, started out much better by holding possession of the ball, good accurate passing, good runs being made, and decent looks on goal. At one point, they had 108 passes completed opposed to Istanbul’s 33. Possession is good, but scoring is what matters.</p>
<p>The first goal came all the way in the 42<sup>nd</sup> minute when keeper Fernando Muslera dropped a cross after landing awkwardly as the ball was then hit home by Istanbul captain Efe Inanc. Muslera won the COPA America with Uruguay mainly thanks to his heroic keeping. However, his one error turned out to be crucial as it led to the opening goal for the home side.</p>
<p>In the second half, Galatasaray’s pressure continued but even by inserting Sercan Yildirim and Engin Baytar, the lions could not find the equalizing goal. Unfortunately for them, Istanbul made matters worse in the 80<sup>th</sup> minute.</p>
<p>Istanbul crossed the ball from the left into the danger area where there was a swarm of Gala players and on striker for Istanbul, former Mallorca ace Pierre Webo. The Cameroonian international controlled the pass, with no pressure, at all, and slotted the ball into the bottom left corner past a helpless Muslera.</p>
<p>The first goal could easily be blamed on Muslera as he dropped a routine cross save but there was nothing he could do for the second goal as the Gala defense decided to ball watch instead of closing down Webo.</p>
<p>Along with Fenerbahce, Galatasaray are by far one of the favorites to win the title this season. However, after a dismal performance in the opener, they leave fans questioning their chances. The players they have added could easily play their part in Gala winning the title. Emmanual Eboue, Selcuk Inan, Johan Elmander, Milan Baros, and Felipe Melo could all step up their game and perform well for the lions.</p>
<p>One of the flops of the match for me was none other than Selcuk Inan. The 26 year old former Manisa and Trabzon midfielder could not send one decent pass to set up one of his team mates. Either Istanbul was perfectly organized, or Inan could not find his creativity that he normally has.</p>
<p>Las week for Turkey against Kazakhstan, Selcuk sent a gorgeous lobbed through ball to Burak Yilmaz who footed home from close range. Today, there was none of that vision from him. Wearing the number 8 shirt means that he needs to fill those shoes with pride and has to play a better game.</p>
<p>Arda Turan’s absence is sorely missed by Gala as he shone in games such as this one where the rest of the team draws a blank at what to do in order to score/win. For Turkey he proved to be a hero.</p>
<p>Last week in the 9<sup>th</sup> minute, game tied at 1, Arda Turan’s free kick was deflected in for the game winner. He also had the chance to win the game in Austria after his penalty kick was saved when his header unluckily smacked the near post then went out. Basically, he is a game winning player that could have easily provided magic against Istanbul.</p>
<p>On the bright side, this was only the first game of the season. Galatasaray added 5 new starts so they still need time to get used to one another. Next week, they will play their first home match against Samsunspor who won their opener 3-2 against Genclerbirligi.</p>
<p>With the support of their home fans in their beautiful new stadium, Galatasaray should go on to defeat Samsun by at least 2 goals. If that turns out to be wrong, then Gala are in trouble because their opponents were just promoted back to the Super League this season.</p>
<p>Regardless of today’s result, Galatasaray will play a good season and finish at least within the top 3. The championship is what they desire and require, but a top 3 finish will be much better than their 9<sup>th</sup> place end last term.</p>
<p>It was a rocky start, but will slowly but surely change into a smooth journey throughout the season.</p>
<p> </p>
Aydin Reyhan
2011-09-11T19:38:00Z
Click...Send...Oops. Garry Cook out as Manchester City CEO
Branham Biggers
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Click...Send...Oops.--Garry-Cook-out-as-Manchester-City-CEO/294366016152745375.html
2011-09-11T15:51:00Z
2011-09-11T15:51:00Z
After allegations surfaced that Garry Cook sent an inflamatory email to the mother of Manchester City defensive player, Nedum Onuoha, Cook resigned his post as CEO of the team. Dr. Anthonia Onuoha served as the agent for her son's contract negotiations, and had sent a number of emails to Cook discussing the process, and especially concerning a dispute over the status of Nedum's contract after a disagreement last October. Dr. Onuah stated in her email that she would continue to hold talks regarding the dispute, despite the fact that she was "ravaged with cancer." She received an email from Cook two weeks later, which appeared to make fun of her condition and make light of the situation. <br /><br /><img src="/images/admin/cook.jpg" alt="" /><br /><br />Cook denied the fact that he ever sent the email, which was intended for Brian Marwood, City's football adminstrator. After the email became public, Cook then said that he was on holiday in South Africa, and somebody must have hacked into his email account and sent the email as a practical joke. Manchester City's board immediately launched an investigation into the allegations. The result of the investigation found validity in the claim, and soon thereafter, Cook resigned.<br /><br />Cook stated, "I am privileged to have held my position at Manchester City and to have experienced the opportunities that it has presented. The privilege is in part offset however by the significant personal focus which has at times, detracted from the magnificent achievements of those working at the football club. It is that factor, together with my error of judgement in this matter that has prompted me to reach this decision, which I believe is in the best interests of the football club."<br /><br />Garry Cook was brought to Manchester City by then owner Thaksin Shinawatra to replace Alistair Mackintosh in 2008. Cook had spent the previous 12 years working for Nike, and running the Brand Jordan project. New City owner Sheik Mansour ultimatley decided that the best thing for the club would be to move on and distance themselves from these controversies. Nedum Onuoha remains at the club, even though he does not appear to be a part of coach Roberto Mancini's plans. The 24 year old Onuoha signed a five year contract at Eastlands in 2009. The defenseman spent last season on loan at Sunderland, and has made a total of 72 league starts for Manchester City. Director John MacBeath will take over as temporary CEO while the board searches to find a permanent replacement.<br /><br />Amidst all of the off-field controversy, Citeh continues to dominate on the field. After their 3-0 dismissal of Wigan on Saturday, Manchester City remains tied at the top of the Premier League, trailing Manchester United only on goal differential. City have taken maximum points through four games, and after Sergio Aguero's sublime hat-trick against Wigan, have outscored their opponents 15-3. An incredible start to a very promising campaign. City will begin their European quest as their first group game will see the Eastlands club host the offensive-minded Italian team, Napoli, and their dangerous attack force of Cavani, Lavezzi, Hamsik and crew on Wednesday. City will then look to make it five out of five as they play Fulham on Sunday.<br /><br />Never a dull moment in the hearts of Manchester City fans. What will be the next controversy??? I predict it will have something to do with either Tevez or Balotelli, but that is not much of a stretch, is it?<br /><br />Thanks for checking this out and supporting World Football Daily. Please remember to follow me on twitter: <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/@branhambiggers">@branhambiggers<br /><br /></a>Cheers!<br /><br /><br /><br />
Branham Biggers
2011-09-11T15:51:00Z
Rossoneri Clip Aquile's Wings
Ogo Sylla
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Rossoneri-Clip-Aquiles-Wings/935936271612552612.html
2011-09-10T14:19:00Z
2011-09-10T14:19:00Z
<p style="text-align: justify;">Milan took on Lazio yesterday evening in the <em>Serie A</em> curtain raiser. Massimiliano Allegri was in bullish mood that his side would come out with a win. Before them however stood a Lazio side that seriously re-tooled during the summer mercato and added the likes of Djibril Cisse, Miroslav Klose, and Lorik Cana as their most high profile recruits. Edy Reja was himself very confident that the <em>Aquile </em>could come to the Champions home and shake up the San Siro.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"> </p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Given how the game panned out in the opening minutes, it seemed that the Lazio boss had a good point in being so confident of his side's chances. Lazio dominated the play and bossed the midfield. Reja's starting 4-5-1 formation was getting the best of Milan and the <em>Rossoneri </em>were pinned back. Despite struggling for cohesion in their build-up play, the first and best chance of the opening minutes fell to Milan as Zlatan Ibrahimovic played in Alberto Aquilani but the Italian was unable to convert after being denied in 1v1 by Albano Bizarri. However, all of Lazio's good pressing soon came good as Stefano Mauri floated in a cross that Klose plucked out the air and fired home past Christian Abbiati. Soon after it was the other new signing who came to the fore as Cisse leapt high above the <em>Rossoneri</em> defense to head in another glorious Mauri cross. It was 20 minutes into the match and the champions were already two goals down and with a mountain to climb.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"> </p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">In effect Milan's struggles originated from Lazio flooding the midfield, a lesson Reja doubtlessly picked up from the <em>Supercoppa</em> when Inter really had Milan under the cosh in that game's first half. Alessandro Nesta was having a particularly poor game, having been beaten both by Klose and Cisse for the two goals. Ignazio Abate spent most of the first half defending and worried about Cisse's pace coming from the left. Luca Antonini really struggled against Abdoulay Konko who got the better of him more time than not. His task was made all the more difficult with Mauri sliding to that side and double-teaming the Italian fullback, thus making him indecisive and difficult for him to decide whether to challenge or not. In effect, both of Mauri's assists came from Antonini's left wing after he had failed to be closed him down fast enough. The whole of the defense struggled in fact and there reigned a real air of disorganization and panic, which was uncharacteristic of what had been <em>Serie A</em>'s best defense last season.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"> </p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Milan responded however and channeled what had to be the wounded pride of champions to get back into the game via a four-minute blitz. At the half-hour mark, Aquilani played Antonio Cassano in with a ball over the top, who then squared it for an easy Ibrahimovic tap-in. Mere minutes later, It was Aquilani's corner that found Cassano's header which he guided in the opposite bottom corner. It was 2-2 before Lazio could even react, and Allegri will have been pleased of his side's response. From then on, it was all Milan as the <em>Rossoneri</em> piled on the pressure throughout the remainder of the match. In the end however, with Cassano hitting the post and an inspired Bizarri denying both Kevin Prince Boateng and Ibrahimovic, Milan had to settle for a single point.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"> </p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">The turnaround Milan were able to engineer was not all down to sheer force of will however. The <em>Rossoneri</em> were helped out by Reja's tactical switch following his side getting the lead. As mentioned before, Lazio flooding the midfield with five players as Inter had during the <em>Supercoppa</em> paid great dividends in disrupting Milan's play. However, upon going a goal up, Reja committed the same mistake Gian Piero Gasperini had. Gasperini had set up his Inter side in a 3-5-1-1 formation but then switched to a four-men back-line when Inter went up through Wesley Sneijder's free-kick. What Gasperini essentially did was remove the fifth midfielder to add an extra defender to protect his lead. In effect it allowed Milan to get more of the ball and dominate the midfield area as more space became available. In Reja's 3-5-1 setup, Cisse was the extra midfielder, as he played wide left and turned into an auxiliary striker on the counter-attack. When Lazio took the lead however, Cisse joined the attack to play closer up top with Klose, and thus changing the formation to a more classic 4-4-2. Like it had been the case with Gasperini, the degradation of the five-men midfield was advantageous to Milan and allowed the <em>Rossoneri</em> to put their stamp on the game and reverse the run of play.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"> </p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">On the one hand Allegri will be pleased that his team were able to roar back with such aplomb. Milan dominated proceedings and despite the disappointment of a mere point at home, the <em>Rossoneri </em>created a lot of chances and were unlucky not to have won the game. On the other hand however, Allegri will be disappointed by the fact that his team once again had a very lackluster start to the game. It seems to have become one of the <em>Rossoneri</em>'s bad habits indeed when it takes them 15-20 minutes to rev up their engine. Furthermore, the circumstances of the reversal should also be a worry for the Italian tactician, as this five-men midfield template seems to be something the <em>Rossoneri</em> has tended to struggle against in their games so far this year. It is something Allegri will be addressing in training surely, but overall, he should certainly be pleased by what was a good showing in the performance and character of his team. </p>
Ogo Sylla
2011-09-10T14:19:00Z
Spurs vs Wolves: A Preview
Sam Rooke
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Spurs-vs-Wolves:-A-Preview/-36147721054868487.html
2011-09-10T07:46:00Z
2011-09-10T07:46:00Z
<p>Wolverhampton Wanderers vs Tottenham Hotspur</p>
<p>Undefeated Wolves welcome bottom placed Spurs to Molineux this weekend. Wolves' excellent start is similar to last season when they were undefeated after three matches however, it didn't last and they went on to gain only one point in their following six games. Spurs will be desperate to get their season going after consecutive heavy defeats against both City and United. It remains to be seen whether those results indicate more about Spurs or the Manchester clubs.</p>
<p>In the same fixture last season, six goals were shared in a thrilling match underscored by the tribute to fallen son Dean Richards before kick-off. Spurs twice took the lead but couldn't prevent a strong finishing Wolves side from claiming a point late in the match. This continued season long trends for both clubs. Wolves had a fantastic record against top 6 clubs and Spurs were dreadful against those battling relegation.</p>
<p>If Spurs are to pick up their first points of the season, they'll have to break several unfortunate records. They haven't won away in September in the Premier League since 2001 and won just three of their past 14 matches in the division.<br />Spurs will likely give debuts to summer signings Adebayor and Parker. Each signing is aimed at solving specific problems made clear so far this season. Last season, Spurs created more chances than anyone but Chelsea. The weakness was converting those chances.</p>
<p>Adebayor scored with more than half of his shots on target in the last two seasons (15 from 24). Spurs major problem in attack has been the conversion of chances. Peter Crouch's miss against City made this problem manifest. Excellent passing in the build-up and an exquisite cross from Bale found Crouch who duly put the golden chance wide. At 1-0 down, that error proved hugely costly when City immediately proceeded to score a knock out second goal.</p>
<p>If Adebayor can prove capable of scoring when given such chances, Tottenham's abysmal start to the season may soon be forgotten. Parker too, reinforces Spurs in several vital areas. Against City, Spurs were beaten in midfield, the mobility and interplay of the fleet-footed and creative trio of Silva, Nasri and Aguero met little resistance in the form of the Croatian pair that opposed them in midfield. Their movement pulled Tottenham apart and the arrival of Parker should help to prevent similar exposure at Molineux. Parker also provides that ineffable quality of leadership. His West Ham teammates spoke often about his attitude and professionalism. Despite his relegation last season, Parker is a winner and Spurs will be hoping that attitude rubs off on his new team.</p>
<p>Summer signing Roger Johnson has made a strong start to his Wolves career and helped to strengthen what was a leaky defence last season. 66 goals conceded last season marked Wolves out as particularly susceptible in defence. So far this term Wolves have only conceded once. Fellow new signing O'Hara will be hoping to make a big impact against his former club after also making a solid start.</p>
<p>Spurs can expect to have chances on Saturday. Despite their strong defensive performances, Wolves have lost possession on 44 occasions so far this season and conceded 47 chances in their opening matches. They are clearly susceptible. Spurs have also created more chances (31) in their two matches than Wolves (29) in three.</p>
<p>It is interesting to note that Wayne Hennessy has played every minute in 2011-12 and been forced to make only one save. Despite the fact that his back four have given the ball away often and in dangerous areas, they have had very few dangerous shots to deal with. Spurs will be hoping to test out the Welshman a little more rigorously.</p>
<p>These two sides contested the 1921 FA Cup final and the 1972 UEFA Cup final, both won by Spurs. This match doesn't hold the same significance as those storied occasions, but may yet be an important factor in determining how both sides fare this season. If Spurs can get back on track with a solid performance, optimism will return at the Lane. If Wolves can continue their stellar start with a win over their more fancied rivals, it may help to solidify their position; well away from the relegation scrap.</p>
Sam Rooke
2011-09-10T07:46:00Z
Forward Arsenal: A New Beginning
Joaquin Reyes
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Forward-Arsenal:-A-New-Beginning/144843235206716771.html
2011-09-10T03:10:00Z
2011-09-10T03:10:00Z
<p>It has been a little over a week since the transfer window closed and the weekend marks a return to club football and a fresh start for Arsenal Football Club. The beginning of the season was tumultuous, just like the rest of the summer, and I found it impossible to set realistic expectations for the season until all transfers had been made. </p>
<p>On deadline day, once the dust had settled, I felt that Arsenal had done a decent bit of business. We did not get the splash signing all had hoped for, but we addressed the biggest problem in the squad, which was depth. Many had said our starting XI was up to par, but not strong enough through the squad, a valid concern. There were question marks all over the squad with a couple yet to depart and the picture still fuzzy as to what we would be left with. In the end, Arsenal signed 8 first team players: Carl Jenkinson, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, Gervinho, Chu (Ju) Young Park, Yossi Benayoun, Per Mertesacker, Mikel Arteta, and Andre Santos. Not to mention the 2 from Barcelona, Bellerin and Toral that joined our youth ranks. To bring depth in, turn a profit on transfers, and trim a sizeable chunk of wages being spent on fringe players, it looks a pretty good summer. </p>
<p>But wait, we lost one of the best midfield talents in the game, and a greedy bastard who was pretty good himself. I really believe the signing of Gervinho offsets Nasri's departure, but losing Cesc would hurt any team, there is no like for like replacement, and we probably couldn't afford him if there was. So people will say that it was a disappointment that we didn't sign a world class replacement, but we really only get one shot at this. There is no oil money. Our club is run responsibly and if the plan is to blow our wad on one superstar then it had better be the right man to lead us to glory. Had we signed Kaka for £35m I would have considered that poorly spent money while others rejoiced. People have said we bid £35m for Mario Götze, and France Football reported that we bid over €30m for Lille's Eden Hazard. I would like to think of these bids as statements of intent. Both of those players fit the profile of the type of signing I would like to see. I'd rather come back to those targets in January than settle for a lower tier recruit, and that's what makes the signings of Benayoun and Arteta smart deals. Neither one stifles the youth, as Wenger always states is his fear, adds the creativity we've been lacking, and leaves room for a big money signing in the next two windows.</p>
<p>If it weren't for the injuries to Wilshere and Vermaelen, I'd feel great going in to the match against Swansea. Injury ravaged is how this squad lives, and they have to learn to cope. The one thing we can say is that the team has added strength and leadership, and we can now boast six players who captain their national sides. What more do you want? We now have a squad full of players who want to be at Arsenal and are willing to give it their all. That's all I ask. To a new beginning, our season starts now.</p>
Joaquin Reyes
2011-09-10T03:10:00Z
Chelsea Opposition Scout Report: Sunderland
Lamin Oo
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Chelsea-Opposition-Scout-Report:-Sunderland/406200043136267498.html
2011-09-09T17:32:00Z
2011-09-09T17:32:00Z
Club football returns after another dull international break. This time around Chelsea will visit the Stadium of Light to battle Steve Bruce's Sunderland team which is still looking for the first win of the current campaign. Their form in the first three league games is D/L/D. Bruce might shift to a traditional 4-4-2 from the 4-4-1-1; Sunderland played pretty well without the ball or at least they were pretty lucky so far; their defense can be exposed by counter attacks and dangerous high crosses; if their strikers take 10 shots, 8 are probably off target. Here is my scout report.<span class="Apple-converted-space"><br /><br /></span><strong><em><span style="background-color: yellow;">Bringing in Bendtner to end a goal drought is like appointing Sam Allardyce as a manager to transform a team into a creative, attacking force.<br /><br /><img style="margin: 5px auto; display: block;" src="/images/blog/Sunderland Starting XI and Movements vs Liverpool.jpg" alt="" width="302" height="487" /><br /></span></em></strong>
<p style="margin: 0px;">Steve Bruce has set up his men in a 4-4-1-1 formation in all three league games so far. There have been some personal changes in the lineup in some games but usually Gyan leads the attack while Sessegnon roams around in the pocket of space behind the attack and the central midfield. Larsson on the left and Elmohamady on the right provide the width to this Sunderland team as Colback and Cattermole marshal the central midfield. Richardson (L) and Bardsley (R) are both attack-minded fullbacks and they are willing to bomb down the flank. Bruce has also used O'Shea on the right back role, moving Bardsley to the left.</p>
<p style="margin: 0px;"> </p>
<p style="margin: 0px;">With the team scoring a single goal in three matches, Bruce has snatched up Nicklas Bendtner from Arsenal to bolster the Black Cats' attack. This is yet another questionable transfer move by Bruce who has bought a total of 10 players during this summer's transfer window. Bringing in Bendtner to end a goal drought is like appointing Sam Allardyce as a manager to transform a team into a creative, attacking force. At any rate, with the Dane, who thinks he's<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><em>great</em>, in the frame, Bruce must decide whether to start Bendtner in place of Gyan in the same 4-4-1-1 formation or to pair the two strikers up in a traditional 4-4-2 moving the pacey Sessegnon out to a wider position.</p>
<p style="margin: 0px;"><strong><em style="background-color: yellow;"><br /></em></strong></p>
<p style="margin: 0px;"><strong><em style="background-color: yellow;">A team can get a result with little ball possession if they have a good defensive organization or if they are lucky and the opponent missed their chances. I think it is a little bit of both in Sunderland's case.</em></strong></p>
<p style="margin: 0px;"><strong><em style="background-color: yellow;"> </em></strong></p>
<p style="margin: 0px;"><strong><em style="background-color: yellow;"><img style="margin: 5px auto; display: block;" src="/images/blog/Passing Heatmaps.jpg" alt="" width="500" height="298" /><br /></em></strong></p>
<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>
<p style="margin: 0px;">Even though Sunderland will be playing Chelsea at the Stadium of Light, the Black Cats will probably have less possession of the ball than Chelsea due to the difference in quality between the two teams. So far this season, Sunderland has done reasonably well in games where the opposition has more possession. Against Liverpool, Sunderland only had 40% ball possession. Yet, they still played well -- they made 58% of their successful passes in Liverpool's half -- and managed to get a point at Anfield. Against Swansea, the Black Cats were able to keep a clean sheet and grabbed another away point even though they only had 38% ball possession.</p>
<p style="margin: 0px;"> </p>
<p style="margin: 0px;">A team can get a result with little ball possession if they have a good defensive organization or if they are lucky and the opponent missed their chances. I think it is a little bit of both in Sunderland's case. They do defend as a team when they don't have the ball and they do that well. But they were lucky not to have lost the games against Liverpool and Swansea. Liverpool striker Luis Suarez missed a penalty and Swansea players also failed to finish a handful of easy chances against Sunderland.</p>
<p style="margin: 0px;"> </p>
<p style="margin: 0px;"><img style="margin: 5px auto; display: block;" src="/images/blog/Sunderland defending against Swansea Open header.jpg" alt="" width="525" height="288" /></p>
<p style="margin: 0px;"> </p>
<p style="margin: 0px;">The above picture captures an instance of Sunderland's defensive shamble. A Swansea corner kick was taken from the right but the ball eventually ended up on the left side of Swansea's attack. As a cross came in, there were eight Sunderland defenders in their penalty box but Swansea forward Danny Graham was totally left unmarked eight yards out from the goal. Graham got a free header but it was off target.</p>
<p style="margin: 0px;"> </p>
<p style="margin: 0px;"><strong><em style="background-color: yellow;">Their defenders don't have any problem getting back to defend opposition's counter attack but they often fail to pick up late runners into the box...</em></strong></p>
<p style="margin: 0px;"><strong><em><br /></em></strong></p>
<p style="margin: 0px;">Sunderland's defense can be especially vulnerable in transitions as their defensive organization gets thrown out the window. Their defenders don't have any problem getting back to defend opposition's counter attack but they often fail to pick up late runners into the box, leaving themselves exposed in the back. Here's an example from the Swansea game.</p>
<p style="margin: 0px;"> </p>
<p style="margin: 0px;"><img style="margin: 5px auto; display: block;" src="/images/blog/Sunderland Defend Counter Attack.jpg" alt="" /></p>
<p style="margin: 0px;"> </p>
<p style="margin: 0px;">The ball was played to the left side of Swansea attack as a counter-attack developed. Four Sunderland defenders (in red circles) were ready in the box to deal with a looping cross as three Swansea attackers waited in the box. The situation seemed to be under control -- four defenders marking three attackers --except that Sunderland defenders were unaware of a Swansea player making a late run in the far post (in black circle). The late runner was able to get his head on the ball and only a strong save from the Sunderland keeper kept the score line at 0-0. For that reason, even though Chelsea may have better ball possession against Sunderland, counter attacks might provide Chelsea with better goal scoring chances.</p>
<p style="margin: 0px;"> </p>
<p style="margin: 0px;">Sunderland also has a problem dealing with high crosses in general. You may already have noticed it from the two examples that I have given here from the Swansea game. Sunderland has conceded only two goals so far and both goals were direct results of Sunderland's failure to defend crosses.</p>
<p style="margin: 0px;"> </p>
<p style="margin: 0px;"><img style="margin: 5px auto; display: block;" src="/images/blog/How Sunderland Conceded Goals.jpg" alt="" /></p>
<p style="margin: 0px;"> </p>
<p style="margin: 0px;">Liverpool swung a cross in from a free kick from the right. Suarez eluded his marker and scored from a header. Against Newcastle, the free kick by Ryan Taylor was no doubt a very dangerous one but both Mignolet and his defender made a mess of clearing it as it floated into the net. In the<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><a href="http://carefreechronicles.blogspot.com/2011/08/opposition-scout-report-west-brom-vs.html">Opposition Scout Report for West Brom</a>, I wrote that putting in high crosses might not be an effective tactics. It is the opposite in Sunderland's case. Chelsea might very well profit from whipping in dangerous crosses into Sunderland's box.</p>
<p style="margin: 0px;"> </p>
<p style="margin: 0px;"><span style="background-color: yellow;"><strong><em>Gyan and Sessegnon have a combined shot accuracy of 23%.</em></strong></span></p>
<p style="margin: 0px;"><span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></p>
<p style="margin: 0px;"><span><span style="font-family: inherit;">In offense, Sunderland has not started firing all cylinders yet. They have only scored a single goal in three games. Their two main attackers have not been clinical with their finishing. Gyan had 12 goal attempts so far and only 3 (25%) were on target. In similar vein, Sessegnon had 10 goal attempts but only 2 (20%) shots were on target. Gyan and Sessegnon have a combined shot accuracy of 23%. Therefore, Chelsea defense should not have that much trouble keeping a clean sheet at the Stadium of Light, especially with Petr Cech back between the sticks. However, both Gyan and Sessegnon have the pace and skills to slip behind Chelsea's high defensive line. So, the defensive organization between the two Chelsea central defenders, and the communication between the defenders and the goal keeper have to be flawless in order to avoid conceding goals. </span></span></p>
<p style="margin: 0px;"> </p>
<p style="margin: 0px;"><strong><em style="background-color: yellow;">The Low Down</em></strong></p>
<p style="margin: 0px;"> </p>
<p style="margin: 0px;">This should be an easy win for Chelsea. The Blues should have plenty of possessions but goals might come much easier from counter attacks than from the usual planned offensive build-up. Sunderland defense is vulnerable to high crosses into the box. Quality service from the wings and from set pieces should help the cause. Not much to worry about Sunderland's attack but Chelsea high defensive line should be mindful of the pacey and skillful Sunderland forwards.</p>
<p><em>Carefree, wherever you may be...</em></p>
<p>You can follow me on twitter <a href="http://www.twitter.com/carefreechronic">@CareFreeChronic</a>.</p>
<p>You can read my other posts on <a href="http://www.carefreechronicles.blogspot.com/">my blog</a> or at <a href="http://bluetinted.com/">BlueTinted.com</a>.</p>
Lamin Oo
2011-09-09T17:32:00Z
WFD Crossbar Challenge Draw
WFD Staff
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/WFD-Crossbar-Challenge-Draw/-728063209595448880.html
2011-09-08T19:53:00Z
2011-09-08T19:53:00Z
The head-to-head portion of the competition will be five (5) separate competitions outside the main competition. The 5 head-to-head battles will determine who has to live up to their chosen consequence. The first to hit the crossbar, wins. <br /><br />The main competition is the first to hit the crossbar overall, no matter who that person is up against in the head-to-head. <br /><br />The following is the draw for the head-to-head competition:<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><ol>
<li>James Cranford v. Karina LeBlanc (Canadian Women's National Team GK)</li>
<li>Sophie Nicolaou v. Anna Maria Picarelli (Italian Women's National Team)</li>
<li>Casey Keirnan v. Robert Burns</li>
<li>Rafa Gonzales v. Jimmy Conrad</li>
<li>Mark Henty v. Kenny Hassan</li>
</ol>The order of the kicks has been determined as well, simply the first out of the hat (James) will shoot first, followed by the second (Karina) and so on. (Meaning Kenny will be shooting last). <br /><br />Be sure to stay tuned and look out for a video of the event. <br />
WFD Staff
2011-09-08T19:53:00Z
Liver n' Onions Survives The International Break...Barely
Nash Larson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Liver-n-Onions-Survives-The-International-Break...Barely/-44132530390609629.html
2011-09-08T00:56:00Z
2011-09-08T00:56:00Z
<p class="separator">Putting on my Liverpool kit circa 2008 I am reminded of the roller-coaster ride of a season that saw us secure the second spot just 4 points behind Manchester United. That and the fact I haven't washed it for some time, but I digress. The ritualistic activity of wearing this kit as I sit down to write about the club I love, seems to percolate my creative juices even more, necessary when coping with a week of International play. </p>
<p>Liverpool face a Stoke City fresh with new talent, after a successful transfer window, this coming weekend. For the upcoming match I wouldn't expect to see any real changes to the line-up that tormented Bolton on the final weekend of August. Suarez will most likely start up top supported by Dirk Kuyt, forcing Andy Carroll to sit, due to his lack of form. Just this last week, international manage Fabio Capello has called out the 35 Million pound striker for his drinking habits and off field antics. Saying, "He needs to be careful because he's an important player for England and Liverpool. If he wants to be a good player and a good sportsman, he needs to drink less than the others." A move of intent from the often soft England manager, made a statement by not selecting him at all for their recent game against Bulgaria. In all honesty Carroll does not warrant a place on the England bench as he has been less than mediocre when playing on the Anfield pitch, so the inclusion in the squad against Wales was a surprise to me. Oh but it's all good because JT has come out to praise struggling Carroll, saying, "I've been there, and have made my mistakes." The model professional that is John Terry recognizes the difficulty that some one at Carroll's tender age has in focusing on his job, with all the perks of being a professional footballer. I say, Grow-Up. Earn your price tag Andy! When bought for that amount of money you owe it to your club to train hard and devote yourself entirely. If he can't cope with the distractions of being a professional footballer, dislodging his head from his shoulders, then he deserves his place on the bench. As a fan I remain unconvinced and wait to see him prove his worth. </p>
<p><span> </span>As Carroll struggles to fit into the renaissance happening under King Kenny, fellow new-boy Stewart Downing has been a stroke of inventiveness on the wing, shining in England's match against Wales yesterday, setting up Ashley Young's 35th minute goal. Carroll must seek guidance from fellow England International and level his head. I want to bring up a few of Carroll's potential high and low lights in the Red of Liverpool. so in his best interest I will rely on the solid bedrock of the old Pros and Cons. This segment will be known as SpotKick's "Carroll" - oscopy:</p>
<p> </p>
<p class="separator"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-05GjDlGzwv0/TmgSKUR8Q8I/AAAAAAAAARA/RHiQee5zasM/s1600/lens15183571_1308216925red-andy-carroll.jpg"><img style="float: right;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-05GjDlGzwv0/TmgSKUR8Q8I/AAAAAAAAARA/RHiQee5zasM/s1600/lens15183571_1308216925red-andy-carroll.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a>PROS:</p>
<p>Strong build and height adds a powerful presence up-top, allowing for surrounding players to run on to knock downs and head-ons. Theoretically Carroll should be a huge target for Reina's cosmic kicks, but this has yet to be successful.</p>
<p>Aggression: simply fearless in the box, making more than 50% of headers his when present, body checks and an unbridled desire to win.</p>
<p>Powerful left foot shot shown in his debut v. Man City last year thundering one past Joe Hart in Liverpool's convincing win.</p>
<p>He's young. Really a pro and a con. A Pro for the massive promise for club and country, with plenty room to get even better. A Con in all the things that come with youth: drinking, partying, not focusing on fitness…you name it.</p>
<p> CONS: </p>
<p>When Carroll is on the pitch he changes the way that Liverpool play, which is something you hope of any player, but in the case of Carroll it's for the worse. Being a target man, he doesn't really fit into the fluidity of Liverpool's attack headed by Suarez. Everyone is moving with Downing swapping wings with Henderson or Kuyt, Carroll's position tends to get lost in the middle.</p>
<p>Liverpool tend to play long ball when Carroll is playing, which is not in their nature and in what I have seen doesn't work well at all.</p>
<p>Kuyt has looked fantastic linking up with Suarez, so the addition of Carroll pushes Kuyt out to the wing, restricting this link up. A player with the engine of the Dutch workhorse can motor all over the place so he will not get lost, but the link up Suarez and Carroll is yet to be determined.</p>
<p>Along with my last point the combination of Big man, Small man has been a tried and true formula for success from Di Stefano and Puskas to the most apparent Ian Rush and Kenny Dalgleish in the 1980's. This clear link should not build a false sense of hope for Liverpool fans; the Suarez- Carroll partnership is promising but to bet your house on it mirroring the fore-mentioned ones would be unwise.</p>
<p>Carroll has been struggling with fitness so there is a bit of ambiguity in assessing his impact, but It just seems that the team is much more creative with Suarez as the focal point in attack.</p>
<p>Continuing to look forward in the business sense, Liverpool's director of football Damien Comolli has been mustering up a deal with Uruguayan side Nacional, after recognizing the talent abundant in Uruguay. In my last Liver n' Onions post I addressed the signing of defender Sebastian Coates from Nacional, the first example of this deal in action so to speak. Liverpool are looking to establish a partnership offer the next 4 of 5 years, growing the sides academy and developing footballing standards, giving Liverpool the pick of the bunch in signing some. The Merseyside club now has two players from the Nacional academy, in Coates and Suarez, making Liverpool that much more of an attractive destination for Uruguayans to apply their trade. </p>
<p class="separator"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZLhnICAoCKA/TmgSf74T9AI/AAAAAAAAARE/i4-H_YXc2jk/s1600/185892_luis_suarez.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZLhnICAoCKA/TmgSf74T9AI/AAAAAAAAARE/i4-H_YXc2jk/s320/185892_luis_suarez.jpg" border="0" alt="" width="320" height="237" /></a></p>
<p>Next week I will preview the return of skipper Stevie G ( - insert Darth Vader Theme here-) as he targets the game against Tottenham to mark his return. </p>
<p> Thanks to Alan Duffy@ Who ate all the pies for Capello quotes.</p>
If I left your mouth watering, or dry as the Sahara check out more @ http://spotkickjournalism.blogspot.com/
Nash Larson
2011-09-08T00:56:00Z
Fans want German shepherd's bark and bite
Robert Burns
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Fans-want-German-shepherds-bark-and-bite/-441641035702214960.html
2011-09-07T15:59:00Z
2011-09-07T15:59:00Z
<p>How boring would it have been if Juergen Klinsmann simply walked into the U.S. job and dished out three offensively explosive beatings on Mexico, Costa Rica and Belgium?</p>
<p>No, that would have been far too easy. What we have instead are two losses and a draw – and an entire nation divided between those who feel that results matter at all times, and those who believe that performance and experimentation supersedes the final score.</p>
<p>Hey, at the very least people are talking about the U.S. men’s national team in the mainstream media, and the World Cup is still about as far away as an insightful on-air comment from John Harkes. Without a doubt, the German has got people talking.</p>
<p>But talking leads to questions, and invariably those will have to be answered if Herr Klinsmann expects to see the fruits of his multi-tiered labor in about ten years time. His expectations are elaborate and far-reaching – and most importantly, vital to the future of U.S. Soccer.</p>
<p>Sunil Gulati and the U.S. Soccer Federation have taken the plunge. They’re all-in and there is no re-buy. American soccer fans have known for years what they were going to get out of Bob Bradley, and while it was most often boringly ‘effective,’ it lacked vision and something thrilling to look forward to. Enter Juergen Klinsmann.</p>
<p>Let’s skip the conversation about what Klinsmann wants to do with U.S. Soccer from the grassroots level and beyond – let’s face it – the average American soccer fan (not those wonderful WFD subscribers) is only interested in what he sees from the U.S. men at the senior level. This is the head of the snake … it dies, so then does the rest. While the entire program is certainly worthy of discussion, it can wait for a rainy day.</p>
<p>This is about the here and now. Three games into the reign of a World Cup winner at the helm of the United States program. What have we learned? And perhaps more importantly, what do we need to unlearn?</p>
<p>The first glaring difference between regimes is the USA’s newfound desire to control possession and attack – a far cry from the early sit back and counter that Bradley improved upon from the end of Bruce Arena’s dictatorship. This is not to say that Bradley didn’t do a solid job since 2006, but his style certainly wasn’t going to thrill American fans who were comparing it to their steady dose of EPL and Champions League action each week. So how’s that working out?</p>
Well, we’ve learned a few things so far. We’ve learned that trying to play like Barcelona requires an incredible amount of fitness and commitment that our current collection of players just isn’t ready to deliver. We’ve learned that a lot of pretty passing in the middle third of the pitch does very little in terms of putting the ball on frame (at the very least) in the final third. We’ve learned that Jozy Altidore and Juan Agudelo, while both very talented and still capable of dramatically improving, are not up to the task of being played as lone strikers.
<p>While I admire Klinsmann’s desire to turn the USA into an offensive juggernaut, he must also not put the cart in front of the horse. Back in Germany, when he took over for Rudi Voeller in 2004, he could count on any number of Bundesliga-cultured players with a built-in first touch and the often underappreciated ability to simply feel comfortable on the ball. Here in the U.S.? Not so much.</p>
<p>And while it is essential that Klinsmann identifies players who are on the cusp of providing these skills on a more regular basis, he must also maintain the grit, physicality and never-say-die attitude that propelled the USA from a laughingstock pre-1990 World Cup to the team that ended current world champion Spain’s record unbeaten run in the FIFA Confederations Cup semifinal just two summers ago. The U.S. has come too far in only twenty years to neglect the philosophies that got it there.</p>
<p>Okay, so am I criticizing the early days of the Klinsmann era? Not at all. While it is always difficult to see my country lose any match (at any level), I always respect the twenty years of growth and understand where these three matches fit in our football history. Let’s call it what it is – the preseason.</p>
<p>World Cup qualifying begins next year. With a number of international friendly dates between now and Klinsmann’s first breath of smog-filled air at the Azteca or change of shirt in a sweltering San Pedro Sula, he has every opportunity to pull a Ranieri and tinker away (like someone is going to gripe about Bill Belichick pulling Tom Brady in the second quarter of a preseason game). Let’s be thankful in this instance that we even have the opportunity to experiment – in Europe teams generally go straight from major tournaments into proper qualifying for the next major one – not much breathing room there.</p>
<p>Face it, change is hard. U2 put out ‘Zooropa’ in 1993, representing a strong break from their original sound. It was a mistake, it was corrected and they (more or less) went back to doing what worked for them in the first place. Contrast that with Underworld, a group that started out as a wild-wigged synth-pop rock travesty in the 80s, failed miserably and ultimately found its place as one of the most successful electronica bands in the world by completely reinventing itself in the early 90s.</p>
<p>Two different paths to success. And perhaps, there is a third as well – a potential fusion of the things that made the U.S. a formidable side that no team ever takes lightly, only now with a new attacking flair that answers all the prayers we’ve been shouting at our television screens since Caligiuri’s ‘Shot heard round the world.’</p>
<p>Argentina lost 6-1 to Bolivia, and that was in a World Cup qualifier just two years ago. We recently had the 10-year anniversary of England’s 5-1 World Cup qualifying win over Germany in Munich. And remember how well the French and Italians defended their World Cup titles in 2002 and 2010, respectively?</p>
<p>The U.S. lost to Costa Rica and Belgium. These were friendly matches (see: preseason). If the German finds a way to get a point at the Azteca in qualifying, top the hex and reach the quarterfinals or better in Brazil, very few American fans will remember these ‘dark’ days. And in all honesty, if Bob Bradley was still in charge and had won these three friendlies, would U.S. fans really be any more optimistic about the team’s chances in 2014?</p>
<p>Look, we all want to see victories, but I know that I would rather the U.S. suffer a few setbacks now if it means getting those all-important wins when the brightest lights are shining. That’s usually where Klinsmann does his best work.</p>
Robert Burns
2011-09-07T15:59:00Z
USMNT: New Play, New Coach, Same Result
James Cranford
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/USMNT:-New-Play,-New-Coach,-Same-Result/325778751906971347.html
2011-09-06T04:58:00Z
2011-09-06T04:58:00Z
The USMNT is still in the embryotic stage of the new regime under Jurgen Klinsmann. However, many of the same issues revolve around our national team, and many new changes can be seen.<br /><br />The United States took on Costa Rica at the Home Depot Center on Friday night in front of a crowd of 15,798 and ultimately lost the match 1-0 on a goal from Rodney Wallace. The U.S. fell to 8-2-2 at the HDC all time. <br /><br />The scoreline may not depict how the game actually finished because the US had the majority of possession throughout much of the game, only lacking the final ball in the final third of the pitch. The main concern remains in the U.S. team with a lack of goals. Jozy Altidore has been on form for his new club team, AZ Alkmaar, and looked much better in front of goal. <br /><br />The final ball from either Brek Shea or Robbie Rogers seemed to fail with a cross that was poor or easily defended by the Costa Rican defense. When the final ball did make it to an on-rushing Landon Donovan on six minutes, the U.S. all time leading scorer shot wide. <br /><br />Jurgen Klinsmann commented on the final push in front of goal after the game, "we need to be more determined...a tick more nastiness." That nastiness in front of goal is still yet to be seen.<br /><br />The U.S. did, however, play a high pressure, high intensity game. Jose Torres in particular did a fantastic job of winning balls back in midfield and regaining possession. The high pressure style of game is what Klinsmann is looking for in his U.S. side.<br /><br />"20, 30, 40, 60 minutes they don't have it anymore, a process we must learn." This process is fighting through the down time in games and learning how to play through them. Most notably, Brek Shea looked very tired after playing three days earlier for FC Dallas in the US Open Cup. <br /><br />The new regime has taken over the USMNT but the results still look the same. When will we see the honeymoon period over Klinsmann end and the results starting to matter? Losing to Costa Rica at home used to be unacceptable. Now we let it slide because we all have the coach we want. <br /><br />The U.S. faces a tough friendly match in Belgium on Tuesday. A game in which will be a true test to see how the U.S. can gel together playing their new high tempo, high pressure game.<br /><br />
James Cranford
2011-09-06T04:58:00Z
Villarreal thumped at Barcelona
Aydin Reyhan
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Villarreal-thumped-at-Barcelona/201638860448755191.html
2011-09-04T20:42:00Z
2011-09-04T20:42:00Z
<p>After making the group stage of the UEFA Champions League, Villarreal had the tough task of opening their 2011-2012 La Liga campaign at defending champions Barcelona. It would have been great if they won or even tied, but they were absolutely humbled.</p>
<p>They started off the game very slowly as Barcelona simply dominated with possession and were able to pass the ball the way they desired to do so. At the 25<sup>th</sup> minute, after many chances and hard work, Barca finally found their opener with Alcantara finishing from close range after a quick passing session with his teammates.</p>
<p>Cesc Fabregas added their second right at the brink of half time. It was 2-0, but should have been an even bigger deficit.</p>
<p>Sanchez added their third before Messi scored twice by the 75<sup>th</sup> minute to put Villarreal out of their misery to make it 5-0 on the night.</p>
<p>The problem with Villarreal’s performance is simply that they respected Barca way too much. Instead of playing tough soccer, they decided to ball watch. Even as a mutual fan, it was absolutely demoralizing to watch one team toy with another.</p>
<p>Both sides are in Spain’s top flight and in the Champions League and yet one team is miles ahead of the other success wise. In Spain, Barcelona is one of two teams that is dominant, with the other being Real Madrid.</p>
<p>Villarreal couldn’t put together a single attack where there was a guaranteed chance to score. They were very afraid of Barca and it was obvious by their play. If they are to play well in the group stage of the Champions League, they need to be fearless in order to stand a chance of advancing out of the group.</p>
<p>They most like will finish within the top 4-6 of the domestic league but they could do even better if they play the way they really can; with confidence.</p>
<p>Giuseppe Rossi is by far the most consistent striker they have and with him, they stand a chance in beating teams that stand in their way. Of course, Barcelona is an exception because almost everyone on their team is just as capable of scoring as Rossi is.</p>
<p>Borja Valero really needs to step up his playmaking as he is the key man in charge of setting up his teammates to score. He has the help of Rogerio Cani who can also make good plays and even score himself.</p>
<p>Barcelona will always be better than Villarreal for a few years to come; however, it is still possible for them to cause an upset against the Catalan giants. In order to do that, every single player on the field including the keeper needs to playa at 100% throughout the entire 90 minutes of game time.</p>
<p>It was an awful start to their domestic campaign but will have the chance to redeem themselves next weekend when they host Sevilla at their beloved El Madrigal stadium. Sevilla won 2-1 against big-spending Malaga by a score of 2-1 at home in the opener but will have a tough task against the submarines.</p>
<p>For those who want to witness a competitive Spanish league match, tune into this one next Saturday at 2:00 p.m. It should provide us with goals, a winner, and a “back-to-normal” performance by Villarreal. </p>
Aydin Reyhan
2011-09-04T20:42:00Z
The Football World Is All Atwitter!
A.J. Nelson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/The-Football-World-Is-All-Atwitter!/-658064032616023942.html
2011-09-03T02:49:00Z
2011-09-03T02:49:00Z
<p>As deadline day loomed and the La Liga season started, I found myself frustrated by a lack of football as I was stuck in the deep South courtesy of Hurricane Irene. My friendly inquiry about changing the TV channel in a sports bar to Fox Soccer was scoffed at. I didn’t even bother to ask about GolTV. Apparently, a high school (American) football replay is the preferred choice (which may have been the opinion of a few Arsenal fans since I was looking for their game against United). </p>
<p>As I itched for information on the goals of the day and the potential transfers, I found myself refreshing Twitter every few minutes. The La Liga season kicked off for Real Madrid against Zaragoza while I was waiting in line to get on a standby list. Not only was I given the up to the minute highlights, but I learned that the shot by @XabiAlonso (Xabi Alonso) was phenomenal. It was clear that the fans and fan girls were giddy over a hat track by @Cristiano (Cristiano Ronaldo). And there was no denying that Karim Benzema (no confirmed Twitter account yet) had several great shots blocked and looked great in the process. (Note: I am not sure if the shots looked great or Benzema himself - given the source, likely both.)</p>
<p>We all know Twitter is biased and full of rumors true and false. It is guaranteed to provide amusement, is a great way to kill time, but periodically it will irritate and offend. Negatives aside, the ability for the fans to interact with their favorite players can truly have a positive impact. Real Madrid Twitter King, @aarbeloa17 (Álvaro Arbeloa), always entertains with his posts - be it his passion for “Gladiator” or his commentary about pulling pranks on his abuela (grandmother). @eGranero11 (Esteban Granero) regular provides a range of eclectic new music and personally I have added several new bands to Pandora courtesy of his recommendations. I also never would have expected @XabiAlonso to be an Entourage fan. How well does “let’s hug it out” translate? @SergioRamos (Sergio Ramos) has been catching up to some of his teammates lately, posting quite a bit in the last few days while on international duty including pictures with @llorentefer19 (Fernando Llorente) and @juanmata10 (Juan Mata). And thanks to the translate function one can follow nearly any player or fellow fan, no matter what language they speak. Twitter can also change opinions and here I must take a moment to apologize to @Joey7Barton (Joey Barton). Courtesy of Twitter, I discovered you aren’t the evil *____* I thought. Sorry.</p>
<p>Most professional sports organizations are concerned about Twitter’s impact (especially regarding transfers or team secrets) and fines have been leveled and discussions have been held to ban players from tweeting. My hope is that they realize the positives outweigh the negatives. It is simple. More fans = more money. The closer the fans feel to the players the more they are going to want to support their teams, buy their gear and attend the games. If necessary, give the players guidelines. Clubs prepare them for the press. They should be preparing them for social media (and for the positives and negatives that come with it). Twitter isn’t going away; in fact, it is becoming bigger every day. Two years from now we may have a new fixation, but social media is an integral part of our lives to come and I, for one, hope the players and clubs embrace it.<br /><br /><img style="vertical-align: bottom; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/AJ Nelson.JPG" alt="" /></p>
A.J. Nelson
2011-09-03T02:49:00Z
European Exile for Pippo
Ogo Sylla
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/European-Exile-for-Pippo/-245949670900147270.html
2011-09-03T00:11:00Z
2011-09-03T00:11:00Z
<p>It was the news that was heard all around Milanello. When the Champions League squad was announced, there was a massive omission from Massimiliano Allegri’s list: Filippo Inzaghi. The veteran striker has been a fan favorite for many years and it has come to a real shock that the Italian striker has not been picked in this year’s Champions League 25-men roster. <em>Rossoneri</em> fans will never forget Inzaghi’s goal exploits, and in some way have come to rely on him as a powerful talisman in big nights such as the Champions League. In that regard, Inzaghi had never let the <em>tifosi</em> down and thus makes Allegri’s choice all the more traumatic for the fans.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>What we must consider is that Inzaghi just turned 38 years old a month ago. Even in these advanced years however, there seems to be a blind faith in Inzaghi’s ability to deliver on the big nights and when we count on him the most. Indeed, many <em>Rossoneri</em> fans frustratingly grumbled that Milan would have progressed had Inzaghi been fit for the second leg tie against Tottenham. So powerful is the cult of Super Pippo, as he’s affectionately come to be nicknamed, I am sure much of the <em>tifosi </em>will be turning a worrying eye towards the substitute bench when Milan find themselves in the search of a goal during the upcoming European campaign.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Despite Inzaghi’s age, Allegri’s omission can be further justified even while considering the inclusions of the injured Philippe Mexes and Taye Taiwo. In effect, With Inzaghi’s injury prone status as of late, Allegri would have done well to avoid being short-manned in other areas of the pitch when the attack is already sufficient. The suspension of Gennaro Gattuso – following his high profile altercation with Joe Jordan – will also have been a consideration of Inzaghi’s omission in that respect. The rule of thumb also says that four strikers are required when going into Europe, and Inzaghi would be the fifth of Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Alexandre Pato, Robinho, and Antonio Cassano.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Allegri made a difficult decision, and recognizes as much: “I had to make a couple of tough choices for the UEFA Champions League list and Inzaghi and [Stephan] El Shaarawy were amongst those who missed the cut.” He nevertheless adds however: “I hope Pippo is back to his best by January so that I can add him then.” Allegri obviously made his decision based on the player’s fitness and current calf problem. After all, with an astonishing 70 Champions League goals (one behind record holding Raul) to his name, Inzaghi’s inclusion in the squad would have seemed an obvious one. However Allegri chose to not add an extra attacker so as to bolster the midfield with the late arrival of Antonio Nocerino. It is a decision I personally cannot say I disagree with. It also allows for a bit more breathing room [for Allegri] when in comes to rotating his attacking lineup. For now Inzaghi can be saved up exclusively for the domestic campaign as opposed to the Italian tactician feeling pressured to play the veteran in all big European games. </p>
Ogo Sylla
2011-09-03T00:11:00Z
Everton's Deadline Day: An Exercise in 'Shambology'
James W. Hollis
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Evertons-Deadline-Day:-An-Exercise-in-Shambology/15810806242755558.html
2011-09-02T23:37:00Z
2011-09-02T23:37:00Z
<p>Deadline day was devastating for Evertonians. On the whole, this transfer window has seen many Evertonians walk the line between extreme frustration and veritable despondency. Deadline day swept many of those who were hanging on to trust in the Everton chairman over the edge. Out with the summer went Jermaine Beckford (£2.5 million), Yakubu (£1.5 million) and Mikel Arteta (£10 million).</p>
<p>Let’s get Jermaine and Yak out of the way quickly. There is no doubt in my mind Jermaine was sold because of a personality conflict with David Moyes. Cast your mind back to Everton’s thrashing of Wolves at Molineux last April. Even with Everton ahead 3-0 after goals from Beckford, Neville (screamer) and Bilyaletdinov (screamer), Moyes pulled Beckford off with 20 minutes to go and the two had a ‘quite public spat’ regarding the substitution. Moyes apparently didn’t care for Beckford’s work rate that day and, I suspect, didn’t care for Beckford’s attitude in general.</p>
<p>Everton also tends to try to make what profit they can from former free transfers. In January 2010, we shipped free transfer Lucas Neill off to Turkey for about £750k after Everton had snapped him up in mid-September 2009. Beckford came on a free last summer, so apparently the club decided that making £2.5 million (it really is chump change) was more important than the goals he would no doubt score this season.</p>
<p>Whatever profit we made by sending Beckford to live with uncle Sven at Leceister City was immediately destroyed by the transfer of Yakubu. Everton let Yakubu go for all-you-can-eat chicken at Ewood Park for £1.5 million. I’ll say that again, £1.5 million. This sum is notable because Yakubu was Everton’s former record signing, joining the club in 2007 for £11.25 million from Middlesbrough . OK, I know that he’s been a shadow of himself (ever increasing in size) since his Achilles injury and that he’s probably six years older than we think he is but that’s a loss of.....(sorry math hurts my head).. £9.75 million. That £9.75 million got us 25 goals in 4 years. That’s steep but there is no doubt that Yak had to go because Moyes wasn’t going to let him near the team (he was worried about him eating little Leon Osman).</p>
<p>For a team who fielded the least number of players in the Premier League and struggled on many occasions to turn good build-up play into goals last season, the idea of sending away our strikers on deadline day seems a bit odd. I mean, Beckford scored 10 goals last year. Yakubu scored...err...1. Fortunately, Everton did sign striker Denis (and let me make sure I copy and paste this) Stracqualursi from Argentinian side Tigre on a season long loan. I know nothing about him apart from that he was the joint top scorer in Argentina’s Primera División<strong> </strong>Apertura last year. Again, I know nothing about Argentinean football and shall withhold judgment on him until I get to watch him play. (Though, I must admit that I am concerned by a nasty rumor that Denis recently had a trial at Leceister City where he failed to impress.)</p>
<p>Nevertheless, I must question whether we need to be ditching a striker who has proven that he can score 10 goals for a Premier League club for a completely unproven player. After deadline day, Everton is left with three strikers who have played in the Premier League: Saha (who will get injured), Anichebe (who will not score), and Vellios (who has played for about 5 minutes). I hope Stracqualursi is good, because if he’s not we’ll be back to playing Cahill up top when injuries start to mount. </p>
<p>This brings me to the most painful aspect of deadline day. We sent Mikel Arteta to Arsenal for £10 million. Don’t worry Arsenal supporters, I don’t hate you. It’s not Arsenal that I’m angry with after that transfer. In fact, I would have been fine with sending Mikel to Arsenal if the decision didn’t make Everton’s transfer policy seem devoid of planning and choked by a debt that our chairman cannot even begin to pay.</p>
<p>Since January, Everton has disposed of its two best creative midfielders for relatively paltry sums. Steven Pienaar went to Spurs for £3 million and now we’ve sold Arteta to Arsenal. The question that’s been plaguing me since deadline day is why we had to sell both of our best two midfielders. Pienaar has been the real engine in our team for the past couple of years. However, he refused to sign a new contract so we sold him to uncle ‘arry at Tottenham. Reports indicated that one of the reasons that Pienaar didn’t sign the new contract was because he wanted the same pay as Arteta (Everton’s former co-top-earner). Pienaar felt as if the club did not value him (and may have been told as much) when Arteta was signed to a new long-term deal and the same terms were not offered to him. So, off to London with Pienaar. </p>
<p>Flash-forward just over seven months to deadline day, Everton sells Mikel Arteta to Arsenal. Either the bank has us (figuratively) by the balls or Everton has just stopped planning for the future and is living day to day. It is madness to think that we would sell Pienaar because we couldn’t match his wage demands and then turn around and sell the player that is on our highest wages. Essentially, what I’m saying is that, if we were going to sell Arteta, we didn’t have to sell Pienaar. Now, they’re both gone. That’s not a strategy, that’s a disaster.</p>
<p>Arteta was nominally replaced by Royston Drenthe from Real Madrid who we secured on season long loan. He’s pacy and I’m told from a source in the know that he likes to go forward a lot. He hasn’t played much in the past couple of years. I hope he pans out, but Everton is rolling the dice with his loan if they’re expecting a replacement for either Arteta or Pienaar.</p>
<p>Deadline day was devastating because Everton’s decline under Bill Kenwright accelerated before my eyes. I hope the team’s performances improve. Otherwise, it will be a long wait until January where we will try to use the part of the transfer fees that the bank hasn’t gobbled up by then. If there was a strategy in our moves this summer I don’t see it, unless Kenwright’s trying to get Moyes to resign to avoid having to pay out the rest of his contract.</p>
<p>Chat with me on Twitter: www.twitter.com/jwhollis</p>
<p> </p>
James W. Hollis
2011-09-02T23:37:00Z
Goodbye Diego. And hello Diego
Joseph Zucker
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Goodbye-Diego.-And-hello-Diego/6192924570465171.html
2011-09-02T02:42:00Z
2011-09-02T02:42:00Z
Atletico Madrid began their season with a draw against Osasuna in what may be a sign of things to come. The club didn’t look bad in the midfield, but the finishing was certainly lacking. The transfer papers for striker Radamel Falaco had not been processed in time so he was unavailable to play. In addition, when manager Gregorio Manzano left striker Diego Forlán off the team sheet, it solidified the fact the Uruguayan would be off to Inter Milan to replace Samuel Eto’o. Manzano was left to essentially play Adrián Lopez as a lone striker with Salvio and José Reyes at the wings.<br /><br />Looking at the numbers, Atletico should have taken more from the match than just a point. They got 28 shots, eight of which were on goal, and had 59% of possession. Osasuna looked to slow the game down and play for the draw the whole match, and for that, they succeeded. Credit must also be given to the goalkeepers for Osasuna. Asier Riesgo started the match and looked good but had to be taken off after picking up an injury in the 44th minute. Andrés Fernández came on and continued the steady play between the sticks. <br /><br />As I said, the midfield did look strong, Gabi in particular. Although it has always been a bit of a weakness in the past, Manzano is looking to build the attack from the back and use a short passing game to move the ball up the pitch. Arda Turan made his La Liga debut for the Rojiblancos. The Turkish midfielder still isn’t fully fit so he was only able to come on as a substitute in the 61st minute. One player who did disappoint was Reyes. When the match started, he lined up out wide, but he hovered around the entire pitch not really looking effective anywhere. In addition to Reyes’s less-than-stellar performance, the result illustrated the problems that are easily predictable after a club loses its best two strikers. Adrián was very poor in front of goal. It’s hard to be too critical, though, as it was only the first match of the season. The midfielders tried to compensate for Adrian’s absence of a first touch by trying their luck from long range. Even with Falcao entering the starting XI, the club needed to bring in an experienced striker to provide more support. You obviously can’t judge Adrián off one match, but it would be much more comforting to know that Atletico would have a steady, proven performer to pair with Falcao if they need to.<br /><br />One player who is coming in is Brazilian midfielder Diego, on a one-year loan from Wolfsburg. The transfer has been rumored for weeks, but for some reason, went all the way down to the transfer deadline. He had a great season for Werder Bremen in 2008/09, helping the club win the DFB-Pokal. He was transferred to Juventus the following summer but has failed to regain the same form. A move back to Germany with Wolfsburg in the summer of 2010 also proved unsuccessful. A loan deal may be the most ideal option for Atletico. The club isn’t invested in him long-term so if he continues his downward spiral, he will be gone at the end of the year. There is a rumored future fee to make the deal permanent if Diego does prove to be a good option in the midfield. Along with the purchase of Arda, Diego helps to solidify the midfield. With Manzano’s tatics, he could be a pivotal player.<br /><br />Another Diego was on the move, but this Diego was exiting the Calderón. Diego Forlán finalized his transfer to Inter. Much has been written about his legacy at the club. It’s undeniable that he was the catalyst for their Europa League run in 2009/10, but he was always a bit of an enigma. One day, he would want out, the next day, he professed his love for the club. He almost single-handedly ran former manager Quique Sanchez Flores out of town. For the success he brought the club and the goals he scored, he will most likely be remembered as a legend, but will never be revered among the supporters. <br /><br /><strong>Falcaometer</strong> (as of September 1, 2011)<br /><img src="data:image/png;base64,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" alt="" /><br />This week: 4<br />It is only the first match of the season, but the Rojiblancos need to show much better finishing. Falcao will not be able to score all of the goals himself. An international break may be just what the club needs. Falcao will have more time to integrate with the squad, and Arda and Diego have more time to get fully fit.<br /><br />You can follow me on Twitter: <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/jzuckynwatleti">@JZuckYNWAtleti</a><br />Or read more from myself and fellow WFD Kick About blogger Matt Barry at <a href="http://kuytchpotato.blogspot.com/">http://kuytchpotato.blogspot.com/</a>
Joseph Zucker
2011-09-02T02:42:00Z
Liver n' Onions Consumes The Transfer Market
Nash Larson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Liver-n-Onions-Consumes-The-Transfer-Market/-251349300852036606.html
2011-09-01T08:12:00Z
2011-09-01T08:12:00Z
<p class="separator"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Today it's all Onions on Liver n'Onions, as you can' t get more eye watering, breath spoiling, and layering than the transfer window deadline day. Let me sum it up:</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I awoke this morning still slightly hungover from the two nights prior when I celebrated my 21st birthday, but my head spinning, stomach turning reality couldn't hold a flame to the head spinning induced from the transfer day deadline madness. I felt sick, even thought the excitement of moving players sets my teeth on edge. With a pro-active summer of signings, I did not expect Dalgleish to have dipped his toes into the market any further. I figured the releasing of players would be the ethos of the Scots approach to the dwindling hours of the window. This he did but someone should have warned him not to do it after smoking a doobie. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Quickly going to my bookmark bar I clicked Liverpool.com, ready to savor the findings, but what I saw left a sour taste when I read:</span></p>
<p class="separator"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-viiAvY4ElyE/Tl8gzLLC3EI/AAAAAAAAAP0/XEXGUWvzWcI/s1600/Raul2-500x318.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-viiAvY4ElyE/Tl8gzLLC3EI/AAAAAAAAAP0/XEXGUWvzWcI/s320/Raul2-500x318.jpg" border="0" alt="" width="320" height="203" /></a></p>
<p>Whaaaat? </p>
<p><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">It's a bit of a broadside. I can only pin this on Dalgleish for not giving him playing-time. Not knowing the reasons, it looks like a player wanting to leave because he isn't getting to play, knowing full well he deserves to be on the pitch. Liverpool's best player last year, has been ousted by Charlie Adam and Jordan Henderson. Where is the Logic in that? Jordan is young and promising, but inexperienced. Charlie Adam has looked quality early in the season, but picking him ahead of Meireles is like choosing a donkey for the Kentucky Derby instead of a horse. All we did was help Chelsea secure a better player, than who they were after. Failing with a 40 million pound bid to sign Luka Modric, AVB should be counting his chickens that Ol' Arry stayed firm on not selling Modric, for they have secured a much better player for a bargain price of 12 million pounds. A shock to my system, which can only be remedied with Adam and Henderson stepping up in the big games. This result does not sit well with me at all. An exciting player, who I loved watching in red, now will be seen in blue, which will only make me feel…blue.</span></p>
<p><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7FQ8R4Jksy0/Tl6JzWhTSPI/AAAAAAAAAPI/yDMa0SpizdM/s1600/AYLQjPBCMAANRfh1-500x452-1.jpg"><img style="float: right;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7FQ8R4Jksy0/Tl6JzWhTSPI/AAAAAAAAAPI/yDMa0SpizdM/s320/AYLQjPBCMAANRfh1-500x452-1.jpg" border="0" alt="" width="320" height="289" /></a><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">A less gut wrenching piece of business sees Joe Cole sent out on a year long </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">loan deal to Lille . The English man has a big task ahead of him adjusting to the culture, language and playing style of the reigning French champions. A good bit of business done by Lille, adds depth the the strong squad, in which Cole will most likely play a substitute role, as he forages for form. This move sparked rumors of Eden Hazard jumping, with Cole serving as his replacement, but that looks like a bunch of bollocks. Adding some astuteness to the deal, is Liverpool trying to cultivate first refusal on signing Eden Hazard by paying 60% of Cole's wages for the next 12 months? Dalgleish and Damien Comolli hope to beat their competitors in courting the talented Belgium, with Cole clearly acting as a sweetener.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Christian Poulsen has left Anfield to join league 1 side Evian after failing to break into the first team squad. A deal worth 4.5 million pounds has been finalized for the Danish International, who, since the introduction Adam, has had a reality check that playing time would be at a premium. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">David No'good has been snatched up by Bolton for 4 million pounds, finally relieving Liverpool fans from having to see that poser any longer, Good riddance .</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Phillip Degen's contract has been terminated, which is no great loss to the squad, and it just clears out some dead weight.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Dani Pacheco has also been offloaded, with the Spanish striker joining Atletico Madrid.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Now for the newcomers…</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></p>
<p class="separator"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3hm2EJToVww/Tl8hClsnkmI/AAAAAAAAAP4/VegCv6ndIok/s1600/Coates.jpg"><img style="float: right;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3hm2EJToVww/Tl8hClsnkmI/AAAAAAAAAP4/VegCv6ndIok/s320/Coates.jpg" border="0" alt="" width="320" height="216" /></a>The Liverpool hierarchy seem to have been studying their math of late…coming up with this complicated formula: Uruguayan team + 4th place finish in World Cup 2010, Winners of Copa America = Good Uruguayan players. Liverpool's signing of Sebastion Coates is putting that formula into action. Signing from Nacional, a player who at this years Copa America was voted "best player" after a commanding performance. Fellow country-men Luis Suarez played an important role in bringing the 20 year old to Anfield, that and a fee of 7 million pounds. I see this man "Coates," "Fitting" into Dalgleish's system just fine.</p>
<p><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">The Nutter with the Putter. Yes, it happened. Bellamy will be making his second bow at the Merseyside club. If you want more please read my piece in the WFD kick about section on the " nutter," because it's nut-rageous.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></p>
<p class="separator"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SUjNY6i3BGY/Tl8hvhwHpeI/AAAAAAAAAP8/kth6BIFavkU/s1600/New+bellamy+.jpg"><img style="float: left;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SUjNY6i3BGY/Tl8hvhwHpeI/AAAAAAAAAP8/kth6BIFavkU/s320/New+bellamy+.jpg" border="0" alt="" width="320" height="249" /></a></p>
<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Check out more @http://spotkickjournalism.blogspot.com/
Nash Larson
2011-09-01T08:12:00Z
Let the Games Begin
Stephen Salerno
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Let-the-Games-Begin/-276966668830004083.html
2011-09-01T07:00:00Z
2011-09-01T07:00:00Z
<p>The summer transfer window is closed. Juventus has added some new parts but it seem like the same old bait and switch. We want Kun or Rossi and we get Vucinic. We want Bastros or Vargas and we get Elia. Elia is young, quick and inexperienced. Is he worth €9 million? I sure hope so. The Old Lady are certainly contenders for the quickest wingers in the world now with Krasic and Elia. In no means am I being pessimistic, I just feel Juventus is missing that one player who will put the team on his back and get a result. Del Piero can only do so much. Juventus also picked up Marcelo Estigarribia on loan. The Paraguay international adds youth and depth to the left wing. He is an unknown. The only action I have seen of him was in Copa America. He only has an upside. The best news of the day was that the Brazilian/Italian soap opera star Amauri will stay at Juventus. I am glad Juventus are paying this guy only for his long locks because he is useless in the black and white.</p>
<p>I am tired of the endless talk about what Juventus needs or want. The time has come to show up to the pitch and get it done. Without European football, Juventus should be serious contenders for the Scudetto and Copa Italia. It will come down to Conte getting his troops up for every game and putting the pressure on the Milan clubs.</p>
Stephen Salerno
2011-09-01T07:00:00Z
Summer of Samir: The Manchester City Power Shift Continues
Branham Biggers
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Summer-of-Samir:--The-Manchester-City-Power-Shift-Continues/-322083952301866258.html
2011-08-31T16:51:00Z
2011-08-31T16:51:00Z
<p>In recent years, the Premier League has been dominated by the "Big Four": Manchester United, Chelsea, Arsenal and Liverpool. Liverpool's struggles in recent years has opened the door for a brief appearance by Tottenham, and ultimately a visit by Manchester City last season. With Arsenal currently in disarray (some would say crisis), Manchester City look to have solidified their place in what might now be considered a "Big Three": Man Utd, Chelsea and City. City's big spending and recent success have brought a spot in the Champions League, an FA Cup title and a squad that is richer and deeper than any other in the league. The recent acquisitions of Dzeko, Silva, Toure, Johnson, Aguero and others ensure that City are virtually two deep with quality International stars at every position, but no transfer may prove to have a more profound effect on the power shift at the top of the league than bringing in the French playmaker Nasri.</p>
<p>Not only did City bolster their squad by adding Nasri, but they drastically weakened one of the annual contenders for the league, Arsenal. The departure of Nasri dealt a blow to Arsenal's squad, their perception to other players, their team morale and to Wenger's way of doing things. In a matter of days, Arsenal lost two of their three best players, with former Captain Cesc Fabregas returning to the team of his youth, Barcelona, and Nasri joining City. This leaves questions in the air surrounding the new Arsenal captain, Robin Van Persie, and just how long he might choose to stay in London. Losing Fabregas was not a shock, as he has made it clear that his intentions were always to return to Barcelona. But losing a young player with the quality of Nasri, to one of your main rivals, who states that he is leaving for the desire to win trophies, is something that never would have happened in years past. This will have to make us look hard at the top of the league, and possibly realize that the power shift has indeed taken effect.<br /><br />City are playing such an attractive brand of football right now, that their two most recent signings have had no problems adjusting to life in Manchester. In his debut, Sergio Aguero scored two goals and had an assist after coming on as a sub in City's opening game, a 4-0 thrashing of Swansea City. Nasri made his first appearance in City's third game, the 5-1 tonking of Tottenham at White Hart Lane, where Nasri created chance after chance, and finished the game with 3 assists. Not a bad first time out for a playmaker. Those two games sandwiched City's 3-2 win at Bolton in a very exciting contest, which means City have played three, and won three, with a combined score of 12-3. This puts them tied at the top of the table with 9 points, only trailing Manchester United by one in goal differential. And with Edin Dzeko currently in top form with 6 goals in those three games, including an astounding 4 against Tottenham, City are firing on all cylinders right now. Next up is Wigan after the International break, and City will continue to look for maximum points with another victory.</p>
<p><img src="/images/admin/Dzeko.jpg" alt="" width="330" height="248" /><br /><br />Another exciting front for City is their inclusion in the Champions League this season, where they were drawn into what appears to be the toughest group by far. It will be amazing to watch this group unfold, and see if City can find a way to advance to the knockout round after competing with Bayern Munich, Villareal and Napoli. City's squad depth and focus will certainly be challenged, and it will be of utmost importance to maintain their momentum and not take the foot off the gas as they compete in multiple competitions. Their Champions League campaign will kick off with their first game at home at the Eastlands versus Napoli on September 14, then they will travel to play the German power Bayern Munich on September 27.<br /><br />The future remains bright for Manchester City, and it's getting brighter all the time. The shift in power is here. The Summer of Samir has begun.<br /><br /><br /><br />Thanks for checking this out, don't forget to follow me on twitter: <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/@branhambiggers">@branhambiggers<br /></a><br /><br />Cheers!</p>
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Branham Biggers
2011-08-31T16:51:00Z
What does Scott Parker bring to Tottenham?
Sam Rooke
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/What-does-Scott-Parker-bring-to-Tottenham/-605807348142256436.html
2011-08-31T07:50:00Z
2011-08-31T07:50:00Z
<p>Scott Parker enjoyed a fine season for an otherwise disappointing West Ham United in 2010-11. He scored important goals and led the team admirably in trying circumstances. However, despite his best efforts, West Ham were relegated. Should his transfer to Tottenham be completed, will he be able to make a valuable contribution? Is Scott Parker likely to improve Tottenham?</p>
<p><em>Strength in Depth</em></p>
<p>Spurs' strength is undoubtedly in midfield. They have considerable depth in that area and it seems unlikely that Parker will be an automatic choice. If Parker has been brought in to replace Palacios, it seems shrewd business.</p>
<p><em>Everyone Needs a Leader</em></p>
<p>Scott Parker brings in reputed qualities to the dressing room and the pitch that are hard to define. He brings in leadership quality and an aggressive attitude. His team talk against West Brom has been widely reported. In a Spurs dressing room that Harry Redknapp has described as lacking character, Parker could be the solution. His mentality, despite being relegated last season, is that of a winner.</p>
<p><em>Jack of All Trades</em></p>
<p>Parker combines the attributes of several different kinds of player. Parker completed 75% of his 122 tackle attempts. This is better even than Sandro and Palacios; arguably Spurs' main defensive midfielders. Of Tottenham's current crop, only Tom Huddlestone has a greater success rate. He also created 38 goal scoring chances (2 assists). That is less than Bale, Lennon, Modric and Van Der Vaart. Even Huddlestone managed 22 in only 13 starts. Parker clearly is capable of making things happen on the pitch. 38 chances created in a poor team is somewhat impressive. He will not be expected to be the creative hub, rather an extra option. Parker is capable but not vital to scoring goals. His passing range and quality add further depth to his quality. His 83% completion rate of passes last season is very good and his willingness to look forward (only 13% of his passes were played backwards) underlines his value.</p>
<p><em>A Willing Runner</em></p>
<p>Against Man City on Sunday, Spurs' lack of mobility in midfield was cruelly exposed. Parker has the ability to run with the ball. His 28 successful dribbles last season demonstrate that ability, are not at the top level (Bale had 68 and Lennon 55) but they add another string to Parker's bow.</p>
<p><em>Goals From Midfield</em></p>
<p>Spurs struggled for goals last season, their strikers contributed few goals and the midfield even fewer. Top sides get goals from midfield. Parker scored more goals than Huddlestone, Jenas, Lennon and Palacios combined. His scored his 5 league goals from only 10 shots on target. He had 36 shots in total, with seven blocked and 19 off target. Again, this seems to reinforce the argument that Parker is a player of quality, but not top quality.</p>
<p><em>A Value Purchase</em></p>
<p>If the reported fee of £5.5 million is accurate he will have been purchased for a reasonable price. Parker will likely make a substantial contribution and improve the overall quality of the squad. He can pass, shoot and run with the ball. He is an intelligent footballer, can tackle and brings vital leadership to a squad sorely lacking in that area. Despite his undoubted quality, it is unlikely that Parker makes the difference between 5<sup>th</sup> and 4<sup>th</sup>. </p>
Sam Rooke
2011-08-31T07:50:00Z
A History of Soccer
AwayGrounds.com
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/A-History-of-Soccer/962137818514393510.html
2011-08-30T15:46:00Z
2011-08-30T15:46:00Z
When you consider how far soccer has come since its birth, it`s incredible to think that such a major sport can have grown from such humble origins. These days the game is played out in front of thousands of supporters with millions more watching the game at home but the early forms of the sport were very different indeed.<br /><br />It`s quite difficult to pin down exactly when the game began and it`s likely that primitive forms of soccer have existed for many thousands of years. According to FIFA, the world`s governing body, the first organised versions of soccer were played out in China, around the second or third century BC.<br /><br />In the 19th century, there were informal versions of soccer being played all over the world but the first attempts to standardise the sport came in England where a whole host of different rules were being used across the country. The game was particularly popular in public schools and each one seemed to have their own version of the sport and their own set of regulations.<br /><br />In 1848 therefore, the Cambridge Rules were drawn up at Cambridge University and these came to be used by most of the organisations playing soccer at the time. From here, the sport really began to grow and a significant part of its development took place in 1863 with the formation of the Football Association.<br /><br />Many of the clubs involved in the inception of the FA are still in existence <span id="OBJ_PREFIX_DWT1772_com_zimbra_date" class="Object"><span id="OBJ_PREFIX_DWT1773_com_zimbra_date" class="Object">today</span></span> and these include the likes of Aston Villa and Notts County. From this period, the football league began to grow in England and organised, professional leagues started to crop up all over the world.<br /><br />The next major development came with the inauguration of the FA Cup, the oldest and most famous cup competition in the world. The first tournament took place in 1872 and it also had humble beginnings with only a selected handful of teams taking part. Eventually, the final took place at Kennington Oval where the Wanderers beat the Royal Engineers by one goal to nil.<br /><br />The Cup continued in fairly understated fashion until 1923 when it was first held at Wembley Stadium. The crowd was vast and took a considerable amount of time to get under control before West Ham United and Bolton Wanderers could start the historic occasion.<br /><br />The first true indication that the sport had become a world game came in 1930 when the first ever world cup was held in Uruguay. The first tournament however, was a fairly quiet affair and many countries across the world didn`t actually take part. Perhaps the most notable of these absentees was England, who had formulated the first set of recognised rules.<br /><br />The event finished with a win for the hosts Uruguay and from that first tournament, the World Cup has grown to the point where it is now the pinnacle of achievement for every nation that plays the game.<br /><br />Football <span id="OBJ_PREFIX_DWT1774_com_zimbra_date" class="Object"><span id="OBJ_PREFIX_DWT1776_com_zimbra_date" class="Object">today</span></span> is a multi-billion pound industry and it is more popular than ever. Across the world, <span id="OBJ_PREFIX_DWT1775_com_zimbra_url" class="Object"><span id="OBJ_PREFIX_DWT1777_com_zimbra_url" class="Object"><a href="http://www.awaygrounds.com/" target="_blank"></a></span></span><a href="http://www.awaygrounds.com" target="_blank">football grounds</a> are full to capacity with a huge TV audience to back them up. Meanwhile, merchandising is also big business and from those humble origins in ancient China, the game can only keep growing in popularity.
AwayGrounds.com
2011-08-30T15:46:00Z
Can The Manchester Kids Do It For England?
William Taylor
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Can-The-Manchester-Kids-Do-It-For-England/638884214003461973.html
2011-08-30T14:55:00Z
2011-08-30T14:55:00Z
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<p>Three games into the Premier League season, and we have our first international break. Not only is it a fantastic chance to reflect on each club’s start to the campaign, but we get to see how England fare as Euro 2012 edges ever closer.</p>
<p>Fabio Capello has included no fewer than 11 Manchester based players in his squad, which I honestly believe bodes well for England’s hopes next summer. Not only are so many of them young with bright futures, but crucially, they can be bedded straight into the national team having that understanding that will have been formed at club level.</p>
<p>Down the years, England managers have always looked to include ‘partnerships’ in their squads – Michael Owen and Emile Heskey, for example – but having so many players from individual clubs certainly is rare.</p>
<p>It is almost comparable to the set-up that Spain has in place, where the majority of players come from Real Madrid and Barcelona. Okay, there could well be the inevitable tension that comes with a club rivalry, but in the modern game, when away on international duty, all the players will be pulling together for the same cause.</p>
<p>It is quite apparent that the Manchester sides will be formidable opponents to anyone this season. City’s 5-1 win over Tottenham was pretty special, but no one could have anticipated the 8-2 annihilation of Arsenal that United served up just hours later.</p>
<p>Without doubt, it will be hard for the ‘victims’ of those defeats to take, but as a neutral observer of the Premier League, and an avid England supporter, it made somewhat reassuring viewing. So many of the players that were on winning sides on Sunday will now be pulling on England shirts this week.</p>
<p>Supporters claiming their<a href="http://euro2012onlinebetting.com/euro-2012-free-bets/"> </a> <strong><a href="http://euro2012onlinebetting.com/euro-2012-free-bets/">Euro 2012 Free Be</a>t</strong> (<a href="http://euro2012onlinebetting.com/euro-2012-free-bets/" target="_blank">http://euro2012onlinebetting.com/euro-2012-free-bets/</a>) will surely note how Germany got on at the world cup with a team of young players. That could well be what happens with England, as the likes of Phil Jones, Tom Cleverley and the now injured Danny Welbeck push for inclusion in the squad that travels to Poland and Ukraine.</p>
<p>Bookmakers won’t make <strong>England<a href="http://euro2012onlinebetting.com/euro-2012-free-bets/"> Euro 2012 odds</a></strong> (<a href="http://euro2012onlinebetting.com/england/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0000ff;">http://euro2012onlinebetting.com/england/</span></a>) on favourites, but who is to say that with the next generation of international stars coming through, they can’t be the dark horses of the competition? If they continue their form at club level, and develop as players, surely it will be to the benefit of the national team.</p>
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William Taylor
2011-08-30T14:55:00Z
Empty seats witness bore draw at Villa Park
John Meyerwitz
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Empty-seats-witness-bore-draw-at-Villa-Park/-77492316660102057.html
2011-08-30T04:24:00Z
2011-08-30T04:24:00Z
A disappointing crowd that fell about ten thousand short of capacity witnessed a forgettable scoreless draw when Wolves paid a visit to Villa Park on Saturday.<br /><br />Other than a flurry of Villa chances at the beginning of the second half, neither team was willing to sacrifice a safe point for the chance at three.<br /><br />Villa put out most of the lineup from last week’s 3-1 defeat of Blackburn, but having to face a real defense prevented another triumph of attacking. In fact, the game essentially came to a screeching halt in the 67th minute when Mick McCarthy introduced two subs and the most negative of tactics.<br /><br />McLeish countered in the 74th minute with the insertion of Barry Bannan, who made little impact, and in the 85th minute with Marc Albrighton, who made no impact.<br /><br />The match stats tell a story of Emile Heskey playing the full 90, but he must have fallen through a trap door at some point and disappeared for the rest of the game. His impact was minimal, to say the least.<br /><br />Darren Bent must be happy to go on international duty this week, where Stewart Downing and Ashley Young will remind him what decent midfield delivery was like. Bent looked like a hungry restaurant customer who simply could not find a waiter. At some point this season he my have to rip the ball from the keeper’s hands and take it home with him, that’s going to be the only way he gets to see it on Saturdays.<br /><br />Not to dwell on a hypothetical, but… would it be such a bad thing to risk playing the youngsters Bannan and Albrighton for the entire game? It would mean a bench spot for Heskey and Delph; but do they deserve any better? Manchester United have played a quartet of youngsters this month and all they did was take nine points from three fixtures. <br /><br />With three attacking midfielders feeding the hungry Bent, and a real threat of goals, the fans may creep back in to Villa Park. After all, it beats checking out the lower league on the blue side of town.<br /><br />Follow the author on Twitter @JohnMeyerwitz<br />
John Meyerwitz
2011-08-30T04:24:00Z
Lungamente vive la Rivoluzione
Carlos Bravo
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Lungamente-vive-la-Rivoluzione/196764600670521469.html
2011-08-29T21:45:00Z
2011-08-29T21:45:00Z
<p>There was a time when the ‘common man’ stood in unison against owners and understood one another’s plight. Granted, in this case we are talking about professional footballers who earn higher wages than most of us - but does that mean they are wrong to strike? Over the past few months we have seen NFL players teaming up against owners in the U.S., and it was many months before an agreement was reached. Then there’s the question of NBA basketball players, who may soon face the reality of not playing an entire season. The strike bug seems to have hit soccer as well, when La Liga was on strike until this past weekend, and Serie A, who are still on strike, as of this past weekend. </p>
<p>While there are many reasons for players striking against their bosses across the leagues, there remains a unified undertone: “We are tired of being exploited, and it is time to take a stand.” This is no different in Serie A, where the main points of contention, as we know it, are players do not want to be forced to leave their club with one year left on their contract [just because the club doesn’t want them anymore], and a 5 percent additional tax on income above $128,250 and a 10 percent additional tax on income above $213,750.</p>
<p>These two points of contention present an interesting conundrum, and perhaps leave fans unsure of where to lay their allegiance. While I do not understand all the intricacies of the tax increase, I would assume that this proposed tax increase would not apply to most fans, and owners have been able to sway opinion to their side. It's hard to feel sorry for someone who is making that much money, and even harder if they don’t want to pay more taxes to help your country. If these rich players are the cause of you not being able to see your beloved team, well, that is just plain unacceptable.</p>
<p>Meanwhile, the other point of contention – players demoted and/or not allowed to train with the first team, and in some cases forced to move while still under contract - can become more obscured. If we try not to think about the high salaries that players rake in, they are ostensibly workers just like us. Imagine this: you have a great job and have been promoted to the top level of your company. Then, for whatever reason, your bosses decide they want to move in a different direction and move you to the basement, and you no longer have access to the same resources that enabled you to be as successful as you were. Even worse, imagine you love living in the U.S. and you have been working at your job for 5 years, when suddenly your employer does not think you are of use anymore, so they send you to Panama (no offense to Panama, I used to live there) and you can’t quit your job. Does that sound like the kind of thing you would expect in your chosen occupation?</p>
<p>The fact of the matter is that living under conditions like this are, quite frankly, unbelievable. Most of us will never be able to comprehend a situation like that, yet it is what Serie A players can expect when they sign on with a team. When we get to heart of the matter, we the fans have a hard time relating to players because of the exorbitant amounts of money they make. Owners know this as well, because despite the fact that owners make terrible decisions in the transfer windows on a semi-annual basis, they are successful business people, and as such, they understand how to control us, the consumers. </p>
<p>So while in the short run we may be robbed of a brilliant Serie A football season, in the long run, I hope the players stand their ground and ultimately win the rights for which they are fighting. We will keep you updated here on the Serie A Kick About, and continue to take a deeper look into the current strike in Serie A. Unfortunately, after the 18-2 vote by the owners to reject the players offer, we may be here awhile. <em>Lungamente vive la Rivoluzione</em></p>
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<p>Carlos Bravo is the weekly Serie A recap writer for the Kickabout, and writes the “I Play for Checks” blog, a forthcoming innovative and unique sports and pop culture blog. You may contact him at <a href="mailto:carlos.bravo12@gmail.com">carlos.bravo12@gmail.com</a>, or at his twitter, @BuffBravo</p>
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Carlos Bravo
2011-08-29T21:45:00Z
The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly: The League One Takeover
Rick Fitzgerald
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/The-Good,-The-Bad,-and-The-Ugly:--The-League-One-Takeover/-426059813905247407.html
2011-08-29T18:02:00Z
2011-08-29T18:02:00Z
A few more matches have passed in the nPower and slowly things are beginning to take shape. Some teams brushed off the dust of the off season and are starting to show their true intentions, while others remained in their basements still trying to find some legs. With lots to discuss, we should get right to it...<br /><br />THE GOOD: I have to admit that there is something kind of special about a team that can promote year after year. As a football watcher, I will say it makes me a bit nervous when I see the likes of Norwich hop a few leagues and end up in the Prem. The concern is that they will simply get beat down week after week and shoved back to oblivion. So far, Norwich has done fine, recently taking it to Chelsea in a match that simply could have gone either way.<br /><br />On a similar note, if you look at the top of the Championship table, you might think you were looking at last year's League One table as Brighton and Southampton are neck and neck for first and second. But it isn't Brighton's rise to the top that puts them in "The Good," it's a combination of solid play, most recently beating Posh 2-0 and a stunning victory of Sunderland to thump the Cats out of the Carling Cup. I'm sure if you ask your average Sunderland fan they will tell you they don't care, but trust me, they do. No one likes seeing their team lose in any competition.<br /><br /><img src="/images/admin/article-1089948-02C941BE00000578-827_468x286.jpg" alt="Off and running towards promotion?" width="468" height="286" /><br /><br />A quick nod to the Hammers for a great and entertaining match vs Leeds. Tensions were high as these two clubs took the pitch and I have to say, they delivered on what was easily one of the best matches I've seen this year. <br /><br />A mere 4,063 fans poured into Greenhous Meadow Stadium on 8/23 to watch League Two mid-tablers Shrewsbury play Prem new boys Swansea in another Carling Cup fixture which should have seen the Swans advance easily. This was not the case however as Shrewsbury recovered quickly from an early OG to put the Swans away with a 3-1 victory. This is just the kind of upset I like to see. Well done Shrews! <br /><br />How about the early race in League One?? Three clubs tied with 13 points in what may turn out to be a photo finish? If these clubs can manage to hold their form, this is an overlooked league that may have plenty of exciting ball.<br /><br />THE BAD: Chesterfield...Ugh...Anytime you get beat down 6-2 you know the next morning is going to feel worse than a tequila hangover. Table toppers MK Dons did just that, sinking Chesterfield even lower on the table (second from last...yikes). How about some defense boys??<br /><br />Speaking of defense, lets move into The Ugly...because there was plenty of it - <br /><br />THE UGLY: Arsenal...wow...what can you say about MU's ownership of this previous top four side? Now I know Arsenal are not in the nPower, but if they continue to play as they are, they will be here soon.<br /><br />For the second edition in a row - Ipswich. I know it may be a bit unfair to put them in the Ugly again, after all, they did have a surprising win over Leeds. But anyone who saw their complete lack of defense and painfully awful play against Posh knows that they belong here again. Nine men and some absolutely crappy defense sunk Ipswich early in that match and once the Posh sharks smelled blood, they attacked. I have to hand it to 'swich though, coming back with a 2-1 over Leeds was a strong recovery.<br /><br />Congrats to Leyton Orient for being the first League One club to reach double digits in goal differential. Coming in at a strong - 10, only Chesterfield (-8) hope to catch them in this not-so-great competition.<br /><br />Finding themselves in the Ugly this week, Nottingham Forest. Pounded by West Ham and seeing themselves slip to the wrong side of the table, Stevie's boys, who are usually playoff contenders, are starting a trend that they may not be able to recover from. I don't believe the Trees will find themselves in a relegation battle, but I have a feeling that they will consider the season a complete waste if they don't at least find themselves in a playoff spot again. <br /><br />Matches to watch this week: There are a lot of good ones. Personally, I like Southampton and Forest. This is going to be a good test of how serious Southampton is - though with Forests current run it may not be too hard to get points. This will also be a good challenge for Stevie's men to see if they can pull anything from this recently promoted club.<br /><br />Leeds vs Crystal Palace. CP are riding high with 10 points while Leeds have failed to impress. Leeds will not want to sink further so a win now is pretty vital. Look for Leeds to move for a more offensive push which should make for a very open and free flowing match.<br /><br />Chesterfield vs Leyton. Ok, I know they are bottom feeders right now but sometimes those are the matches that are the best to watch. Neither team will want to be in that un-coveted bottom stop as the week progresses. This match will most likely be a 1-0 to either side but the play should be enough to keep spectators thoroughly entertained.<br /><br />Finally - Getting to know the Npower:<br /><br />This week I would like to look at Doncaster. With a current record of one draw and four losses, the only place the Rovers are roving is at the bottom of the Championship table. <br /><br />Doncaster were founded in 1879 and currently play at Keepmost Stadium. Their most current achievement was winning the Football League Trophy in 2007. So far, the Rovers have only scored two goals, one by James Hayter and the other by Billy Sharp, who still remains their most expensive transfer at 1,500,000 pounds. While Doncaster can name several teams as rivals, their main rivals would be considered Rotherham (though with them being a league below this rivalry has died off a bit) and Nottingham as the two were promoted to the Championship during the new year.<br /><br />As of now, Doncaster has a squad that is slightly below average. The addition of Sharp in 2009 has done little over the years to boost the squads scoring and their defense is shaky at best and if things continue to go the way they have been, Doncaster will be able to renew that Rotherham rivalry as they will both be in League One again. Doncaster may not find themselves climbing in the next few weeks as they have tough matches vs Cardiff, Reading and Palace in September.<br /><br />That's all for now.<br /><br />Take care and be safe<br /><br />Twitter @undefeatedarmy
Rick Fitzgerald
2011-08-29T18:02:00Z
Could This be the End for Scottish Football?
Sandy Thin
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Could-This-be-the-End-for-Scottish-Football/141808169096759046.html
2011-08-28T18:42:00Z
2011-08-28T18:42:00Z
<p>On Thursday night, we saw the end to an era. While Scottish clubs may not have been dominating forces of European football for quite some time, they have always been present always until now. As Hearts, Rangers and Celtic got knocked out of Europa League qualifying - to Tottenham (5-0), NK Maribor (3-2) and FC Sion (3-1) respectively – it meant the European competitions would be commencing for the first time without any Scottish involvement.</p>
<p>Hearts were fighting a lost cause before the tie even began as they were put up against a team clearly superior in every respect and despite losing 5-0 at Tynecastle, showed good effort and persistence in attaining a goalless draw at White Hart Lane against, admittedly, a weakened Tottenham side. The Glasgow teams however, were both expected to see away their opponents with some ease but after the first legs it was clear they were going to have to play well to progress. Unfortunately, they did the complete opposite. After a shocking performance losing at home to St Johnstone the previous weekend which Lennon had grilled the team for, Celtic continued their terrible form, conceding a penalty in the first five minutes with Majstorovic being sent for an early bath for his troubles. It was downhill from there, losing 3-1 eventually. Rangers’ forwards continually missed good opportunities and good only muster a home draw putting them out after they had lost the away leg.</p>
<p>However, all three teams recovered for the weekend. Celtic picked up all three points in Paisley with a 2-0 victory over St Mirren, thanks to a brace from Gary Hooper to take them within a point of Rangers and Motherwell at the top of the table. Ally McCoist finally earned his first home win as manager of Rangers with a 2-0 win over Aberdeen, which they were lucky to get as an Aberdeen side who have failed to impress so far this season played some very good football, especially in the second half. In the first Edinburgh derby of the season, Hearts won 2-0 against fierce rivals Hibs who are struggling at the bottom of the table with only three points from their first five games of the season.</p>
<p>Elsewhere in the league, there were some high scoring games, with SPL new boys Dunfermline losing 4-2 at home to high-flyers Motherwell and St Johnstone and Dundee Utd drawing 3-3 in a dramatic United late comeback. Inverness CT clocked their first win of the season at home to Kilmarnock with a 2-1 victory. In a week where there haven’t been many positive things to say concerning Scottish football, there is one: hopefully, we won’t have to live through another game with Celtic’s hideous third kit!</p>
Sandy Thin
2011-08-28T18:42:00Z
Klinsmann Names Young, Experimental Squad to Face Costa Rica, Belgium
Heath Harshman
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Klinsmann-Names-Young,-Experimental-Squad-to-Face-Costa-Rica,-Belgium/-658993824071117944.html
2011-08-27T16:16:00Z
2011-08-27T16:16:00Z
<p>Although he seemingly just took over the post, new U.S. Men’s National team head coach Jurgen Klinsmann is already putting his stamp on job. After an up-and-down performance against Mexico in his coaching debut a few weeks ago, Klinsmann will be looking to get a better feel for the team during the upcoming exhibition games against Costa Rica and Belgium. Team fixtures such as Clint Dempsey and Jozy Altidore join the team after missing the 1-1 draw with El Tri, giving the U.S. attack a more familiar look.</p>
<p>Both Altidore and Dempsey have started the new season well with their respective teams,AZ Alkmaar (Netherlands)and Fulham (England). Jozy has tallied three goals in his first three games this season in the Eredivisie while Dempsey has scored twice to start the season, snagging a brace in Fulham’s 3-0 Europa League first-leg qualifier victory over Dnipro.</p>
<p>Getting time with expected squad members will be good for Klinsmann, but the future seems to be where the new boss is looking to. With a disturbing historic trend of talented multi-national American players choosing to play for other countries (Giuseppe Rossi and Neven Subotic always come to mind), Klinsmann has named a couple exciting young players who have that choice to this squad, possibly signaling his intention to buck the trend. Midfielder Fabian Johnson, a former Germany U-21 starting midfielder, is the most surprising addition to a squad which includes such multi-national players such as Edgar Castillo, Jose Torres and fellow German Timmy Chandler. </p>
<p>Johnson, a European U-21 Champion in 2009 while playing for Germany alongside the likes of Sami Khedira and Mesut Ozil, has made a surprise switch to the U.S. His inclusion is a shot in the arm of a U.S. roster that, apart from the likes of Donovan and Dempsey, has lacked an offensive attack with some flair. He currently plays in the Bundesliga for Hoffenheim and has set up three goals in three games so far this season. </p>
<p>Chandler will also likely make his first appearance under Klinsmann, after he was pulled from the team to face Mexico on August 10<sup>th</sup> in order to settle in with his club team Nuremburg. He joins other young, relatively fresh faces to the national team squad such as Castillo, Michael Orozco Fiscal and Tim Ream. These defenders are likely the first glimpse into the next generation of U.S. defenders as the regulars, such as Steve Cherundolo and Carlos Bocanegra, are on the wrong side of 30 while left-back and a consistent partner for Bocanegra in the middle have been trouble spots of late.</p>
<p>Some familiar faces will also be missing from the squad. Midfield trio Michael Bradley, Jermaine Jones and Ricardo Clark were all left off the team sheet for the friendlies.</p>
<p>“All three of these players are trying to sort out their club situations, and the deadline for transfers is a week away. They have also not been playing matches, so for these reasons we decided to select different players for this roster,” Klinsmann said in a post on the U.S. team’s website.</p>
<p>Clark and Bradley each played in the last World Cup for the U.S. and Jones, since switching allegiance from Germany to the U.S., has become an expected player on the team sheet. The exclusion of the trio will give guys like Kyle Beckerman, Sacha Kljestan, Jeff Larentowicz and Jose Torres their chance to shine in the center of midfield alongside the welcomed sight of U.S. team regular Maurice Edu.</p>
<p>Up front Altidore will be joined by three MLS strikers - Teal Bunbury, Juan Agudelo and the unforgettable Landon Donovan. Altidore and Donovan, both members of the 2010 World Cup campaign, will play alongside two relative newcomers to the national side. Agudelo appeared in five of the six matches at the Gold Cup this summer and will be looking to continue to impress under new boss Klinsmann while Sporting Kansas City striker Bunbury will look to add to his two cap total.</p>
<p>The new look midfield as well as the younger faces on the defensive end will give Klinsmann plenty of new options when he sets the lineups for the upcoming games and should give fans a good idea of what he’s looking for, something that was more difficult to ascertain in his previous match.</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p>Team in Full:</p>
<p> </p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">GOALKEEPERS (2)</span>:<strong> </strong>Bill Hamid (D.C.United), Tim Howard (Everton)<br /><span style="text-decoration: underline;">DEFENDERS (9)</span>:<strong> </strong>Carlos Bocanegra (Rangers), Edgar Castillo (Club America), Timmy Chandler (FC Nürnberg), Steve Cherundolo (Hannover), Clarence Goodson (Brondby), Zach Loyd (FC Dallas), Michael <br />Orozco Fiscal (San Luis), Heath Pearce (Chivas USA), Tim Ream (New York Red Bulls)<br /><span style="text-decoration: underline;">MIDFIELDERS (9)</span>:<strong> </strong>Kyle Beckerman (Real Salt Lake), Clint Dempsey (Fulham), Maurice Edu (Rangers), Fabian Johnson (Hoffenheim), Sacha Kljestan (Anderlecht), Jeff Larentowicz (Colorado Rapids), Robbie Rogers (Columbus Crew), Brek Shea (FC Dallas), Jose Torres (Pachuca)<br /><span style="text-decoration: underline;">FORWARDS (4)</span>:<strong> </strong>Juan Agudelo (New York Red Bulls), Jozy Altidore (AZ Alkmaar), Teal Bunbury (Sporting Kansas City), Landon Donovan (Los Angeles Galaxy)</p>
Heath Harshman
2011-08-27T16:16:00Z
Your guess is as good as mine
Joseph Zucker
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Your-guess-is-as-good-as-mine/-114283952999162121.html
2011-08-27T03:38:00Z
2011-08-27T03:38:00Z
An exercise in futility is performing a task knowing full well that the result will prove to be pointless. It could also be defined as trying to predict where Atletico Madrid will finish in the table.<br /><br />Just by looking at the past few years, you can see how fruitless it has been to predict what would happen with the Rojiblancos. In 2007/08, manager Javier Aguirre led the club to a fourth-place finish in La Liga, thus qualifying for the Champions League. Good enough, right? Of course. Certainly Aguirre should be given some time if the 2008/09 season should start slowly, right? Surely. Or not. The club did start rather slowly, and Aguirre was given the sack after going win less in the first six games of 2009. Abel Resino was brought in and Atletico turned their season around, finding themselves once again in the fourth spot with the Champions League along with it. Alright, it seems the club has finally found some firm ground to build on. Abel Resino can help lead Atletico Madrid into a new era of success. All he has to do is not stumble in the beginning of the 2009/10 season. Sure enough, Atletico started the season slowly, again. The manager was given the sack, again. The dismissal followed a 4-0 drubbing at the hands of Chelsea in the Champions League.<br /><br />Quique Sanchez Flores was Resino’s replacement, and much like his predecessor, success followed. While unable to continue the same league standing as both Aguirre and Resino, Flores did them one better. After finishing third in their Champions League group, Atletico was dropped down into the Europa League. With a string of results, and a bit of luck, the club found themselves in the final against a charmed Fulham. Going the distance and then some, Diego Forlan’s goal in the 116th minute was the difference in a 2-1 win. It was Atletico’s first European trophy since 1962. When you combine the Europa League title with a runner-up finish in the Copa del Rey, there were many positives to take from the 09/10 season, despite a 9th place finish in La Liga. <br /><br />Needless to say, there were high expectations going into the next year. The very first match of the year was the UEFA Super Cup against Champions League winners Inter Milan. It was a very different Inter side with the departure of Jose Mourinho. Atletico looked very strong and won 2-0. With two European titles under his belt, Flores looked prime to take the club back to the Champions League. I think you can get the picture now. The Rojiblancos struggled and Flores was a dead man walking. Following a 7th place finish and Europa League exit in the group stages, he was given the axe. Frequent quarrels with Forlan certainly did not help Flores’s circumstances. Gregorio Manzano has been brought in as manager in what is his second stint with the club, the first was the 2003/04 season.<br /><br />That brings us to present day. With recent history and failed expectations having beaten them down, Atletico supporters refuse to be broken. There is an optimism coming out of the Calderón. This despite the fact that goalkeeper David de Gea and talisman Sergio Aguero have both changed their addresses to the greater Manchester area. The signing of Radamel Falcao has certainly led to most of that optimism. The arrival of midfielder Arda Turan has also been a source of excitement. However, in typical Atletico fashion, there can’t be too much optimism. The seemingly imminent departure of Forlan leaves the club without one of its key players. Regardless of how much drama has surrounded the Uruguayan in the past couple of years, it is undeniable how much he has meant to the club. No matter how little of a shock it will be to see him go, losing an experienced striker like him will hurt the club immensely. <br /><br />While many Atletico supporters were left scratching their heads with the announcement of Manzano as manager, he may be exactly what the club needs. He brings a lot of experience with him and is a very good motivator. Rafael Benitez was a named heavily linked with the job, but with him, the club would have been one more step closer to implosion than it already is. The one thing about Manzano is that he has had his most success with smaller clubs without a lot of star names. Essentially, he is like a Spanish Roy Hodgson. Now, he is moving to a large club, and I think we can all remember how Hodgson did when he moved to a large club. Manzano will most likely stick to a 4-4-2, which is what how the club has primarily lined up over the past few years. Here’s what the club might look like:<br /><img src="data:image/png;base64,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" alt="" /><br />Of course, whatever formation chosen will likely see multiple face lifts throughout the season. Arda is still injured and will likely command a starting place. Brazilian midfielder Diego is heavily rumored to be coming before the end of the summer transfer window. <br /><br />Whatever Manzano does choose, it seems highly unlikely that any of it will make a bit of difference. As I have said above, no matter what the expectation, Atletico Madrid have been arguably the most consistently inconsistent team in La Liga. It would be meaningless to try and provide an educated guess as to where they finish in the final table. (If I were to make an educated guess, it would be 5th.) So with that knowledge, I will reach into a hat and select a number. Whatever number that is, that is where the Rojiblancos will finish in the 2011/12 season.<br /><br />Write this down, go to Vegas, and bet it all because Atletico will finish, drumroll please.................................14th. Certainly not what’s expected at the Spanish capital. But then again, when does it ever end as expected?<br /><br />On a side note, I will keep a panic meter throughout the entire season, which will be called the Falcaometer, on a scale of 1-10 (1 being calm in the Calderón and 10 being complete implosion).<br /><br /><strong>Falcaometer</strong> (as of August 26, 2011)<br /><img src="data:image/png;base64,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" 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" 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" alt="" /><br />It's early, but the departure of Sergio Aguero still lingers. There's questions about the goalkeeping situation. They kick off their season at home Sunday against Osasuna.
Joseph Zucker
2011-08-27T03:38:00Z
The Nutter with the Putter
Nash Larson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/The-Nutter-with-the-Putter/-664662625348254072.html
2011-08-26T19:34:00Z
2011-08-26T19:34:00Z
<p>I awoke this morning with the sweet, yet surprising chirping of the "Nutter with the Putter," possibly making an Anfield return. Known as Craig Bellamy, only by reputation, as the name on the birth certificate most appropriately is I'm F***ing nuts, has been linked with a move back to Liverpool, after years of team hopping around England. This moniker that the fiery Welshman has coined, is due to the infamous "team building" trip Rafa Benitez's Liverpool took to Portugal, ending in Bellamy settling a dispute with John Arne Riise by brandishing a 9- iron. If you're a fan of football, it's common knowledge that Bellamy is a loose-cannon, but a player that can come up with the miraculous on the pitch. At City he was one of their best performing players, leaving the likes of Robinho and Adebayor looking shite . Phil Mickelson's return, sorry...ahhhh Bellamy's return to Anfield would be an interesting move to say the least, a move that could play dividends for player and club. Signing for Manchester City in 2009, Bellamy played an important role in their move to relevance, but since then he has been loaned out to his hometown club of Cardiff City in the Championship. In my mind, and in the mind of Welsh international manager Gary Speed, Bellamy is a player who is too good of a player to be mucking it around in the second level of British Football. A player capable of terrorizing defenses as he did Barcelona that European night in 2007, pipping a 2-1 result against the European Champions. A result that would not happen in this current archdiocese, even with Bellamy back at Anfield.</p>
<p><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gtdXHAOjxII/Tlf024Vhi-I/AAAAAAAAAOw/rsfSHXKPxwI/s1600/images.jpeg"><img style="float: right;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gtdXHAOjxII/Tlf024Vhi-I/AAAAAAAAAOw/rsfSHXKPxwI/s1600/images.jpeg" border="0" alt="" /></a></p>
<p>Like Balotelli, Bellamy is what you would call a misunderstood genius. A player that needs the arm around the shoulder from that influential manager. As a boy- hood supporter of Liverpool, Bellamy gave them a few good years in his first stint, and with this latest rumor has the chance to giv'em some more, or that is the hope at least. It's a gamble from Dalgleish but if any manager can inspire the Liverpool fan in Bellamy, it's him. An unpredictable player to say the least, who is just as likely to take a golf club to your dome piece, than listen to you. With the talent at Liverpool, he'd probably be no more than a squad player in Merseyside, but with his Welsh work-man-like determination, could be a regular fixture if he impresses. Players that have played with Craig say he's one of the most determined players they have ever lined up with, but with those high-points there comes downsides. Don't EVER try to cut him in line at a chip shop, for you will get stuffed. John Arne Riise knows this first hand, being taught with the comforting utensil of a golf club. Don't ever insult his "mammie" or you'll get stuffed. Don't ever comment him on his silly accent or .....you get the picture. One interesting flash point that could erect is the friendship or - lack there of - with Andy Carroll. Two extreme egos, competing for a striking role, who both love a good time and a few pints. The Welshman is know for his quick spurts of pace, to which forming a partnership with Suarez would make a forward line that you could lose like your pair of spectacles.</p>
Nash Larson
2011-08-26T19:34:00Z
Europa League Draw
WFD Staff
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Europa-League-Draw/127406797469022282.html
2011-08-26T16:25:00Z
2011-08-26T16:25:00Z
<strong><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Group A</strong><br /><ol>
<li>Tottenham Hotspur FC</li>
<li>FC Rubin Kazan</li>
<li>PAOK FC</li>
<li>Shamrock Rovers FC</li>
</ol><strong>Group B<br /></strong><ol>
<li>FC Kobenhavn</li>
<li>R. Standard de Liege</li>
<li>Hannover 96</li>
<li>FC Vorskla Poltava</li>
</ol><strong>Group C<br /></strong><ol>
<li>PSV Eindhoven</li>
<li>Hapoel Tel-Aviv FC</li>
<li>FC Rapid Bucuresti</li>
<li>Legia Warszawa</li>
</ol><strong>Group D<br /></strong><ol>
<li>Sporting Clube de Portugal</li>
<li>S.S. Lazio</li>
<li>FC Zurich</li>
<li>FC Vaslui</li>
</ol><strong>Group E<br /></strong><ol>
<li>FC Dynamo Kyiv</li>
<li>Besiktas JK</li>
<li>Stoke City FC</li>
<li>Maccabi Tel-Aviv FC</li>
</ol><strong>Group F<br /></strong><ol>
<li>Paris Saint-Germain FC</li>
<li>Athletic Club</li>
<li>FC Salzburg</li>
<li>SK Slovan Bratislava</li>
</ol><strong>Group G<br /></strong><ol>
<li>AZ Alkmaar</li>
<li>FC Metalist Kharkiv</li>
<li>FK Austria Wien</li>
<li>Malmo FF</li>
</ol><strong>Group H<br /></strong><ol>
<li>SC Braga</li>
<li>Club Brugge KV</li>
<li>Birmingham City FC</li>
<li>NK Maribor</li>
</ol><strong>Group I<br /></strong><ol>
<li>Club Atletico de Madrid</li>
<li>Udinese Calcio</li>
<li>Stake Rennais FC</li>
<li>FC Sion</li>
</ol><strong>Group J<br /></strong><ol>
<li>FC Shalke 04</li>
<li>FC Steaua Bucuresti</li>
<li>Maccabi Haifa FC</li>
<li>AEK Larnaca FC</li>
</ol><strong>Group K<br /></strong><ol>
<li>FC Twente</li>
<li>Fulham FC</li>
<li>Odense BK</li>
<li>Wisla Krakow</li>
</ol><strong>Group L<br /></strong><ol>
<li>RSC Anderlecht</li>
<li>AEK Athens FC</li>
<li>FC Lokomotiv Moskva</li>
<li>SK Sturm Graz</li>
</ol>
WFD Staff
2011-08-26T16:25:00Z
Opposition Scout Report: Wigan Vs Norwich
Lamin Oo
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Opposition-Scout-Report:-Wigan-Vs-Norwich/-158044947182828103.html
2011-08-26T14:30:00Z
2011-08-26T14:30:00Z
<p style="margin: 0px;">Premier League new boys Norwich City has played three games so far without a win. They drew 1-1 with both Wigan (away) and Stoke (home) in the league and lost 4-0 to MK Dons (home) in the second round of Carling Cup this Tuesday.</p>
<p style="margin: 0px;"> </p>
<p style="margin: 0px;">For this scouting report, I will mainly focus on their season opening game against Wigan for three reasons. First, it is a league game, unlike the game against MK Dons. Second, it was an away game which will be the case when they play against Chelsea this weekend. Third, it was a game in which Norwich had all eleven players on the pitch for the entire time (defender Leon Barnett was sent off at 63rd minute in the Stoke game). However, I will draw in statistics and match facts from all three games in this report.</p>
<p style="margin: 0px;"> </p>
<p style="margin: 0px;"><strong><em>Shifting Lineups</em></strong></p>
<p style="margin: 0px;"><strong><em><br /></em></strong></p>
<p style="margin: 0px;"><strong><em><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Formation Changes.jpg" alt="" width="546" height="441" /></em></strong></p>
<p style="margin: 0px;"><strong><em> </em></strong></p>
<p style="margin: 0px;">Getting a point at Wigan is by no mean a disappointing result for a newly promoted team but Norwich manager Paul Lambert made six changes to his starting eleven in the home game against Stoke. Holt (F), Crofts (M), Tierney (D), De Laet (D) and Ruddy (GK) were the only players who started both games.</p>
<p style="margin: 0px;"> </p>
<p style="margin: 0px;">I'm not familiar enough with Norwich's tactics from last season to know if this is something Lambert does regularly or not. It could be that he likes to start different teams for away and home games. In that case, the starting lineup against Wigan may be the one we will see in Stamford Bridge come this Saturday.</p>
<p style="margin: 0px;"> </p>
<p style="margin: 0px;">Although the personal changes between the Wigan game and the Stoke game, Norwich's formation stayed pretty the same. Against Wigan, it was a 4-4-2 with the central midfielder Hoolahan slightly more forward then his partner Fox, in almost a 4-diamond-2 fashion. Against Stoke, Crofts and Johnson both played as deep lying central midfielders in a classic 4-4-2 formation. I think Lambert will pick the 4-diamond-2 formation which gave Norwich a better hold of the game against Wigan with 51% possession. With the 4-4-2 against Stoke at home, Norwich only saw 47% of the ball.</p>
<p style="margin: 0px;"> </p>
<p style="margin: 0px;"><strong><em>The "Goal Threat"</em></strong></p>
<p style="margin: 0px;"><strong><em><br /></em></strong></p>
<p style="margin: 0px;">Five is the number of shots on target Norwich City was able to collect after making 13 goal attempts against Wigan and 10 against Stoke. So, there is about 21.7% chance that a Norwich player's shot will be within the frame of the goal. Not the most staggering statistics by any stretch of the imagination. Let's see how and where the shots were taken in these two games.</p>
<p style="margin: 0px;"> </p>
<p style="margin: 0px;"><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Norwich Goal Threat.jpg" alt="" width="529" height="317" /></p>
<p style="margin: 0px;"> </p>
<p style="margin: 0px;">I think very few will disagree when I say, "Stoke has a better defense than Wigan." From that understanding, you can see that Norwich's attack could get into the box to take shots against a weak defense of Wigan; eight out of thirteen shots came from inside the box. Yet, the shots lacked accuracy. Against a stronger defense of Stoke, there were fewer shots from inside the box, only two out of ten.</p>
<p style="margin: 0px;"> </p>
<p style="margin: 0px;">Against Chelsea's stingy defense, Norwich will again be restricted to taking shots from outside the 18 yard box. Hilario, who is a great shot stopper, should be able to deal with them but the likes of Mikel, Ramires and Lampard will have to make sure that there is very little space before the defensive line to deny the shooting chances.</p>
<p style="margin: 0px;"> </p>
<p style="margin: 0px;"><strong><em>Tackling In The Midfield</em></strong></p>
<p style="margin: 0px;"><strong><em> </em></strong></p>
<p style="margin: 0px;"><strong><em><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Norwich Tackles vs Wigan.jpg" alt="" /></em></strong></p>
<p style="margin: 0px;"><strong><em> </em></strong></p>
<p style="margin: 0px;">Against Wigan, Norwich did not pressure and tackle until the opposition comes into their half of the field. There were a few odd challenges in the opposition's half, especially by Holt, but they are insignificant compared to the number of tackles they made around the center circle. Of course, a team always makes more tackle in their defensive positions than their attacking positions but you can see the difference in pressing style when you look at Wigan's tackle chart.</p>
<p style="margin: 0px;"> </p>
<p style="margin: 0px;"><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Wigan Tackles vs Norwich.jpg" alt="" /></p>
<p style="margin: 0px;"> </p>
<p style="margin: 0px;">As you can see from Chart 3, Wigan make almost as many tackles in their own half as they do in opposition's half. Norwich were happy to let Wigan have the ball in non-threatening position. It means that our defensive midfielder and our defenders will have a lot of time on the ball, even more than they usually do. It is then crucial for these players to pick out the right pass/cross from those deep positions.</p>
<p style="margin: 0px;"> </p>
<p style="margin: 0px;">What will be the right tactical approach in this kind of situation where the opposition is willing to sit back and defend? Well, don't look at me! Why don't you ask our manager?</p>
<blockquote>
<p style="margin: 0px;">"At this time of ultra-low defensive block teams, you will have to learn how to provoke them with the ball. It's the ball they want, so you have to defy them using the ball as a carrot.</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p style="margin: 0px;">... that's something Henk ten Cate also took to Avram Grant's Chelsea. With Ten Cate, play was started with John Terry or Ricardo Carvalho, to invite the opponent's pressure. Then you had one less opponent in the next step of construction." (<a href="http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/teams/chelsea/8699902/Chelsea-manager-Andre-Villas-Boass-footballing-philosophy.html">Source</a>)</p>
</blockquote>
<p style="margin: 0px;">As Villas-Boas has suggested, Chelsea may have to use the ball as the bait to draw out the opponents before making an attacking move.</p>
<p style="margin: 0px;"> </p>
<p style="margin: 0px;"><strong><em>Route One</em></strong></p>
<p style="margin: 0px;">Against both Stoke and West Brom, Chelsea has mostly used passing from the back as a way to bring the ball forward instead of punting it all the way to the forwards. Understandable approach, since both Stoke and West Brom are good at dealing with long balls. But route one football might be the way to go against Norwich, especially if Chelsea needs to find a winner deep in the second half.</p>
<p style="margin: 0px;"> </p>
<p style="margin: 0px;"><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Ali Al-Habsi Long Passes.jpg" alt="" /></p>
<p style="margin: 0px;"> </p>
<p style="margin: 0px;">Against Norwich, Wigan goalkeeper Al-Habsi was able to deliver 18 successful long balls to his teammates. Either Al-Habsi is a long ball specialist or Norwich has a problem dealing with long balls. The former is less likely because the Wigan goalkeeper could only muster 7 successful long balls against Swansea.</p>
<p style="margin: 0px;"> </p>
<p style="margin: 0px;">In recent years, Chelsea has stayed away from route one football and has been playing passing football. However, Norwich's inability to deal with long balls is a weakness that Chelsea can definitely exploit. As we all know, Drogba is a better target for long balls than Torres. So, we could either start with him in the center to knock down crosses and initiate the attack or bring on in the second half to offer a different attacking option. It will depend on how we want to approach the game and how the game unfolds.</p>
<p style="margin: 0px;"> </p>
<p style="margin: 0px;"><strong><em>Conclusions</em></strong></p>
<p style="margin: 0px;">Norwich has played and suffered an embarrassing defeat at home during mid-week while Chelsea had the whole week of training. Therefore, even without considering the difference in quality between the teams, Chelsea goes into this match with more confidence and preparedness. Chelsea should be able to dominate the possession once again. Since, Norwich will sit back and soak in the pressure, Chelsea will need to find a way to translate ball possession to goal scoring opportunities. Chelsea's defenders and the defensive midfielder will have to initiate the attack drawing out the opponents and even hit a long ball every once in awhile to exploit Norwich's weakness in defending long balls. Although Norwich's attack is not very prolific in front of the goal, Chelsea should not forget that the Canaries were able to find the back of the net in both of the league games that they have played this season.</p>
<p style="margin: 0px;"> </p>
<p style="margin: 0px;">* All the charts featured in this post were constructed using<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><a href="http://www.guardian.co.uk/football/chalkboards">Guardian Chalkboard</a>.</p>
<p style="margin: 0px;"> </p>
<p><em>Carefree, wherever you may be...</em></p>
<p>You can follow me on twitter <a href="http://www.twitter.com/carefreechronic">@CareFreeChronic</a>.</p>
<p>You can read my other posts on <a href="http://www.carefreechronicles.blogspot.com/">my blog</a> or at <a href="http://bluetinted.com/">BlueTinted.com</a>.</p>
Lamin Oo
2011-08-26T14:30:00Z
Villarreal stumble into group of death
Aydin Reyhan
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Villarreal-stumble-into-group-of-death/-264346865416193933.html
2011-08-26T06:46:00Z
2011-08-26T06:46:00Z
<p>Yesterday was a good day for the fans of the beautiful sport of soccer. It was the day we have been waiting for - the UEFA Champions League group stage was announced. Thirty-two teams will embark on a season long journey to reach the summit of Europe’s elite. Last season, it was Barcelona who lifted the trophy. Who will it be this year? Does Villarreal stand a chance in the so called “group of death?”</p>
<p>Group A is where the toughest competition will be found. Bayern Munich, Manchester City, Villarreal, and Napoli will all battle it out for group supremacy.</p>
<p>Bayern Munich is the group favorite as they have a vast amount of experience compared to the other teams. </p>
<p>Manchester City has an immense amount of talent but there players are still learning how to gel with one another. They just purchased a stud attacking midfielder in Samir Nasri. He played well for Arsenal in the competition and will be expected to be even better for his new club.</p>
<p>Villarreal made it all the way to the semi-finals in 2006. They lost narrowly to Arsenal with a 1-0 score but things could have been different if Riquelme had converted his penalty kick against Jens Lehman.</p>
<p>Five years later, the yellow submarines want to wipe their slate clean with a fresh start and impress in this tough group. They have the capability of defeating any team, but not with ease. My prediction may not be to kind for them, but it is better than nothing.</p>
<p>The top two teams will be Bayern Munich with Manchester City finishing in second. Villarreal will fall to the Europa League round of 32 after finishing third in the Champions League group stage. Before you decide to stop reading, read the next paragraph.</p>
<p>Bayern Munich is in the knock-out stages almost every year and they thoroughly deserve to be there. They are a star-studded team with the likes of Ribery, Robben, Gomez, Lahm, and Muller. These players are all game changers. Lahm recovers possession on the defensive end, and then sends the ball up to one of these sharp finishers. Also, they just signed Germany number one keeper, Manuel Neuer, from Schalke 04. They are a very tough team to defeat especially at this level.</p>
<p>Manchester City simply splashes the cash on players they believe will benefit their club. Nasri and Aguero are both key game changers and to start them together on the field alongside David Silva, Carlos Tevez, and Yaya Toure is honestly not fair. Goosebumps are what I feel when thinking about the possibilities of that team.</p>
<p>Villarreal have one key striker that will score a goal almost every single game he plays in, Giuseppe Rossi. Borja Valero, Rogerio Cani, and Nilmar are all productive players but they do not have the “killer touch” Rossi possesses. They can pass the ball, take shots, and make some very good plays but without Rossi to finish them, they don’t look too heroic.</p>
<p>Luckily for them, he has decided to stay with them for at least another 6 months or so and this is exactly what they need especially after discovering their fate in Europe’s most elite competition.</p>
<p>Napoli in my opinion are very good, however, they will not advance from this group. If they do, I apologize in advance to their beloved fans. To force an upset in one or maybe two games is possible. To do so in six? I don’t think so.</p>
<p>Marek Hamsik, Ezequiel Lavezzi, and of course Edson Cavani are all going to be very important factors for their side’s success. We also cannot forget the smart addition they made in Swiss international Gokhan Inler. He was the heart and soul at Udinese and should continue to do wonders in the heart of the Napoli squad. They are good but vastly inexperienced and in the end, this will cost them dearly.</p>
<p>Regardless of my prediction, this is going to be by far the most exciting group. The impatience is growing inside me at a rapid rate. Villarreal has the chance to prove all of their critics wrong if they can upset the likes of Bayern Munich and Manchester City. For me, Napoli is the Villarreal of Italy and when those sides square off, we should all fasten our seat belts folks because they will put on an unforgettable show.</p>
<p>On another note, La Liga will commence this weekend after an agreement has been reached between the players and the league regarding finances. Villarreal have the honor and punishment of facing the defending champion Barcelona at the ever so dangerous Nou Camp. This will be a thriller as both sides play quick, smart, and hopeful soccer. If Villarreal escape with even a point, they will have bragging rights as Barca are the team to beat along with Real Madrid. </p>
<p>Until next time loyal readers, enjoy the game against Barca and look for my article about the match. If you have any questions, concerns, please follow me on twitter @areysportsnews or e-mail me at areysportsnews@gmail.com. </p>
Aydin Reyhan
2011-08-26T06:46:00Z
City Do It To Bolton, We Do It To Spurs / (Very) Quick Arsenal Preview
Brendan Morris
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/City-Do-It-To-Bolton,-We-Do-It-To-Spurs-/-Very-Quick-Arsenal-Preview/-339805352878465506.html
2011-08-25T17:28:00Z
2011-08-25T17:28:00Z
Manchester City fans, along with the footballing world at large, have been endlessly heralding the "ruthless attacking edge" and the finally "free flowing play" of the blue half of Manchester after "emphatic" wins against ...erm... Swansea and Bolton.. While I will more than admit that City's billion dollar playboy attacking line is certainly formidable, and that the likes of Silva, Dzeko, and the newly acquired Aguero have looked very good in these first couple of matches, lets not get too carried away here with the relevance of these victories as they were against a newly promoted side and a PL lower half of the table mainstay. It does bode well to improve this City of the Sheik's reputation that they can "beat Chelsea and lose to anyone", but at the end of the day it was Swansea and Bolton. And yes, I'm well aware that they currently sit at the top of the table on a +1 goal difference, but I'd far from say they've really laid down any kind of marker yet as they haven't really been tested.<br /><br />United on the other hand already laid down 1 marker in the brilliant comeback defeat of the Citizens in the Community Shield, but they in fact did it once again in a truly emphatic win Monday against Spurs. Putting out another young lineup, the second youngest SAF has ever fielded in the PL in fact, including Cleverley, Welbeck, Jones, and Smalling, United got stuck into this one right from the off. This included some great early pressure that included Cleverley nearly notching the opener in the early minutes, taking a very Paul Scholes-esque strike from distance that was ultimately finger tipped away by Brad Friedel, who was making his debut for the London club. <br /><br />Anderson and Cleverley are looking to be a stellar pairing in midfield and did well to keep that momentum up on the night. Developing a wonderful understanding of each other and a, dare I say, almost "tippy tappy" passing relationship they moved the ball through the middle of the park fantastically. This of course was very helpful to both Ashley Young and Nani, who were their usual menacing selves through the first 45 with a continued supply of crosses as well as Young coming very close with a slow and high header around the 30th minute. The attack was rounded out by Rooney and Welbeck at the front, Rooney playing a true deep lying #10 role to Welbeck's central #9. It's fair to say they wreaked havoc on the Spurs defense for the duration of the match, but it's not at all to say that Spurs didn't have a few tricks of their own.<br /><br />Spurs maintained a nearly dead equal share of possession in the first half, with Nico Kranjcar and Rafael van der Vaart attempting to make the most of it with some early blasts on goal that were both artfully saved by De Gea. They're movement of the ball was also very good in spite of missing want-away midfield maestro Luka Modric, and high speed attacks led by Bale and co. were a constant. A forward line of this caliber would have been difficult for most any EPL defense to deal with, but it was something of a trial by fire for our extremely young back line. As hard as it was for the lads, and it wasn't without 1 or 2 shaky moments here and there, it's with an immense amount of satisfaction to say that they passed with flying colors as they managed to keep a clean sheet and look good while doing it. Smalling, a center back by nature, put in another solid performance in the right back position looking just as comfortable there as he does in the middle. This kid is just getting better by the game. Phil Jones was also shining like a new dime in this one, and I have to say I think he's my favorite of our young players at the moment. He's quite agile, good with the ball, and absolutely tough as nails! He loves to get stuck in and take on the fast approaching attacker, and he's got the skill to do so without collecting cards or busting legs. He can be a bit hot headed at times, but I don't think that's necessarily a bad thing if it's kept more or less under control which he seems able to do. All that said, he reminds me a touch of Roy Keane in a way, which also reminds me he can also play at defensive mid. It seems an extremely attractive proposition to see him paired with Cleverely in the middle of the park. In a Carling Cup match maybe? We'll see.<br /><br />In light of his many, many ridiculously harsh critics I have to be fair and point out that De Gea did have a bit of a nervy moment in this match. A fast approaching van der Vaart tried his best to unsettle him as he kept the ball at his feet a touch too long, but our new number 1 handled the situation by simply sidestepping the ball around him. A bit shaky? Maybe. Depending on how you look at it though I thought it was really a fantastic display of his skill. A great many goalkeepers, even good ones, can be found quite lacking with the ball on the ground but De Gea seems to possess that particular skill in spades. Just keep giving hime time, he's going to be immense.<br /><br />Still scoreless at the start of the second half, this 45 would turn out to be a completely different story indeed. United came out looking even stronger than they did in the first and it only seemed a matter of time before they scored, which they finally did in the 61st minute. Cleverley delivered a quick and hard cross from the right wing finding the head of Welbeck, who in turn skillfully guided the ball past big Brad Friedel. It was a truly fantastic play, and just awesome that it came from 2 of out up and comers. <br /><br />This really seemed to demoralize the Spurs squad as they all but completely opened up after that, allowing United to apply constant pressure to their back line. Our build up play and attack became all the more fierce as well as the boys clearly smelled blood in the water. An incredibly well placed back heel pass found the oncoming Anderson, who positively hammered the ball into the net from about 10 yards out to get us our second in the 76th minute. For a guy who couldn't score to save his life for what seemed like an eternity, he's manage to notch 4 of his last 5. Way to go Ando, keep it up and cement a place in this squad. <br /><br />Not as if the nails weren't already well into Spurs coffin for this one, Rooney added insult to injury in the 87th. Substitute Giggs placed a spot on cross from just outside the area which Roo went to powerfully head into the back of the net from close range. <br /><br />Many might say the scoreline was a bit unfair to Tottenham as they managed to hold us until the 61st minute but, while I'm not at all trying to take away anything from the solid performance they put in until that point, I feel it was completely justified. In those initial 61 minutes we hit them time after time after time until they eventually opened up and when they did, we aptly punished them for it. That's the whole idea, isn't it? And the fact that we scored our 3 goals in the last 29 minutes, and it well could've been 4 or 5, coupled with the rest of our fantastic attack seems to harken a return to that ruthless edge we've always been known for. It's definitely been lacking in the last couple of campaigns, and I hope the displays in this match and the Community Shield are an honest sign of things to come.<br /><br /><br />Next Game: Arsenal at United, 8/28 <br /><br />A quick preview of Sunday's match which sees the Arsenal making the visit to Old Trafford. I need not go too far into the seemingly endless woes of our long time North London rivals. Yes, they managed to just sneak through their Champions League qualifier against Udinese, but they also put in that absolutely horrendous appearance against Liverpool at the Emirates last weekend, not to mention against Newcastle the week before. They've not even managed a goal in the Premier League yet, and they'll be even further (is it really possible) weakened by missing the injured Jack Wilshere and the still suspended Gervinho. I honestly feel a bit sorry for them to be stuck in this sorry state, but certainly not sorry enough to not want to see the United boys hammer them. I think they're going to do just that, and I'll say we're in for another 3-0 scoreline for this one. Looking forward to it.<br /><br />Glory Glory <br />
Brendan Morris
2011-08-25T17:28:00Z
Latest Soccer News
LiveFootball.net Contributor
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Latest-Soccer-News/637100938908584842.html
2011-08-25T15:38:00Z
2011-08-25T15:38:00Z
With leagues about to get underway across Europe once again, there is still a great deal of focus on the summer transfer window which has over two weeks left to run. While it is still possible for clubs to do business up until the end of August, managers will be especially keen to strengthen their squads before the big kick off gets underway.<br /><br />In Italy, it had seemed up until the beginning of the month that Wesley Sneijder would be staying at Inter Milan after his club issued a warning to other sides that their influential Dutch midfielder wasn't for sale at any price.<br /><br />However, unconfirmed reports suggest that the player himself has suggested that Inter are in a difficult financial situation and will shortly be in a position to sanction the sale. While Manchester United were believed to be the main contenders for the player`s signature, the suggestion is that their bitter rivals Manchester City are also interested and this could be an interesting developing situation over the next few weeks.<br /><br />Meanwhile, another player could be heading into Serie A as the future of Villarreal`s Giuseppi Rossi remains undecided. The striker seemed set to stay with his Spanish side as Juventus, who had been interested in his signature, switched their attention to Mirko Vucinic but the rumours over Rossi`s future have refused to go away.<br /><br />Italy is still a possible destination for the player and while Spurs are believed to be interested, there are serious doubts as to whether the North London side would be able to fund the transfer fee and subsequent wage demands.<br /><br />In the English Premiership, there will doubtless be some more major transfer activity before the season begins and the attention at the moment is firmly on Manchester City`s Argentinean striker Carlos Tevez. The man who shared the golden boot with Dimitar Berbatov last season has stated his desire to move on but as he returns to training at the Etihad Stadium, there is no sign yet of an imminent transfer.<br /><br />Berbatov is another player whose future is in doubt after he was left out of Manchester United`s squad for May`s Champions League final with Barcelona. It was thought that the Bulgarian was a target for free spending Paris St Germain but once again, nothing definite has materialised.<br /><br />Elsewhere in the Premiership, Liverpool have been among the biggest spenders in 2011 and this summer has been spent by investing in some quality British talent. While Charlie Adam, Stewart Downing and Jordan Henderson await their full debuts for the Anfield side, manager Kenny Dalglish is thought to be looking for further reinforcements with Newcastle`s Jose Enrique and Bolton`s Gary Cahill on the club`s radar.<br /><br />Title challengers Chelsea have been quiet in the transfer market by their standards so far but they have snapped up one of the most promising talents in world football in Belgian striking sensation Romelu Lukaku. The big question for Chelsea fans now is whether manager Andre Villas-Boas will go in with a final bid for Spurs` Croatian international Luka Modric.<br /><br />While football seasons across Europe are about to get underway, the transfer window is about to get even busier and with plenty of <a title="livefootball.net" href="http://www.livefootball.net" target="_blank">live football</a> coming up, it will be fascinating to see how clubs across Europe begin their respective campaigns.<br />
LiveFootball.net Contributor
2011-08-25T15:38:00Z
UEFA Champions League Draw
WFD Staff
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/UEFA-Champions-League-Draw/-578094003586567295.html
2011-08-25T15:26:00Z
2011-08-25T15:26:00Z
<strong><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Group A<br /></strong><ol>
<li>FC Bayern Munchen</li>
<li>Villareal CF</li>
<li>Manchester City FC</li>
<li>SSC Napoli</li>
</ol><ol> </ol><strong>Group B</strong><br /><ol>
<li>FC Internazionale Milano</li>
<li>PFC CSKA Moskva</li>
<li>LOSV Lille Metropole</li>
<li>Trabzonspor AS</li>
</ol><ol> </ol><strong>Group C<br /></strong><ol>
<li>Manchester United FC</li>
<li>SL Benfica</li>
<li>FC Basel 1893</li>
<li>FC Otelul Galati</li>
</ol><ol> </ol><strong>Group D<br /></strong><ol>
<li>Real Madrid CF</li>
<li>Olympique Lyonnais</li>
<li>AFC Ajax</li>
<li>GNK Dinamo Zagreb</li>
</ol><ol> </ol><strong>Group E<br /></strong><ol>
<li>Chelsea FC</li>
<li>Valencia CF</li>
<li>Bayer 04 Leverkusen</li>
<li>KRC Genk</li>
</ol><ol> </ol><strong>Group F<br /></strong><ol>
<li>Arsenal FC</li>
<li>Olympique de Marseille</li>
<li>Olympiacos FC</li>
<li>Borussia Dortmund</li>
</ol><ol> </ol><strong>Group G<br /></strong><ol>
<li>FC Porto</li>
<li>FC Shakhtar Donetsk</li>
<li>FC Zenit St. Petersburg</li>
<li>APOEL FC</li>
</ol><ol> </ol><strong>Group H</strong><br /><ol>
<li>FC Barcelona</li>
<li>AC Milan</li>
<li>FC BATE Borisov</li>
<li>FC Viktoria Plzen</li>
</ol><ol> </ol>
WFD Staff
2011-08-25T15:26:00Z
La Liga Preview Part IV: Fighting for Europe
Stephen Kuzner
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/La-Liga-Preview-Part-IV:-Fighting-for-Europe/-966548487443834666.html
2011-08-25T14:28:00Z
2011-08-25T14:28:00Z
<p><strong>La Liga Preview Part IV: Fighting for Europe<br /></strong>By Stephen Kuzner, WFD La Liga Blogger<br /><br />As of this writing, I don’t know if La Liga will start this week or not or even when. To continue the preview of the league here are the teams that will be vying for a spot in Europe whether it be the Europa League or Champions League. All seven of these teams have a chance at Europe. To me though, the most interesting thing will be whether Valencia finishes 3<sup>rd</sup> for a 3<sup>rd</sup> straight year. We hear about #1 and #2 being etched in stone for either Barca or Madrid, but is #3 the same deal for Valencia? By the end of the transfer window, the whole La Liga guide in PDF format 20+ pages of La Liga soccer-intelligence will available. My goal in all this was to have one page per team that a fan could read in 5 minutes before a game to have a short preview to help if they are new to La Liga. Kind of like what a broadcaster might have in front of them during the game. Not too much information and not too little. Let’s take a look at who has a chance a Europe.<br /><br />9.<strong> RCD Espanyol </strong>| Flagship example of the movie: ”How The Cantera Saved La Liga”.<br />8.<strong> Sevilla FC </strong>| The past few years has been a slow slide. It continues this year.<br />7.<strong> Málaga CF </strong>| Starting a team from scratch with a ton of cash still takes time.<br />6.<strong> Atlético Madrid </strong>| Look great again on paper, but are too volatile to pick higher.<br />5.<strong> Villarreal CF </strong>| Loss of Cazorla is enough to sink the yellow submarine one spot<strong>.<br /></strong>4.<strong> Athletic Bilbao </strong>| Stability, a great buy, two world class players, depth, and Bielsa.<br />3.<strong> Valencia CF </strong>| VCF is written in permanent ink at #3 like the top two.<br /><br />------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><strong><br />Real Club Deportiu Espanyol de Barcelona (Espanyol)<br /></strong><strong><br />Founded</strong>: 1900 | 76 Years Top Flight | 6<sup>th</sup> All-Time Table<br /><strong>Nicknames</strong>: Periquitos (<a title="Parakeet" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Parakeet">Parakeets</a>), Blanquiblaus (White and Blues)<br /><strong>Ground</strong>: Estadi Cornellà-El Prat (40,500)<br /><strong>Last Year</strong>: 8<sup>th</sup> (49 Pts)<br /><strong>Manager</strong>: Mauricio Pochettino<br /><strong>Formation & Style</strong>: 4-3-2-1<br /><strong><br />BEST 11<br /></strong><strong><br />Cristian Álvarez</strong> (GK) | Argentine. Age 25. Rosario Central product.<br /><strong>Dídac Vilà</strong> (LB) | Spain U21. Age 22. Rising star. Espanyol product.<br /><strong>Juan Forlín</strong> (CD-L) | Argentina 1 Cap. Age 23. 45 Apps for Espanyol. Boca Product.<br /><strong>Jordi Amat</strong> (CD-R) | Spain U20 (2011). Age 19. Espanyol product.<br /><strong>Albert Canal</strong> (RB) | Spanish. Age 20. Possible revelation this year?<br /><strong>Raúl Baena</strong> (LM) | Spain U21. Age 22. FC Barcelona Product.<br /><strong>Javi Márquez</strong> (CM) | “Catalonia 1 cap. Age 25. Captain. Espanyol product.<br /><strong>Joan Verdú</strong> (RM) | Spain U20 (2002). 71 apps for Espanyol. Age 28. FCB Product.<br /><strong>Sergio García</strong> (AM-l) | Spain 2 caps (2008). Age 28. FCB product. Winger & FW.<br /><strong>Luis García</strong> (AM-R) | Spain 7 caps (2008). Age 30. Vice Captain. Striker & Winger.<br /><strong>Pablo Osvaldo</strong> (CF) | Italy U21 (2008). Age 25. 13 goals in 24 apps for Espanyol.<br /><strong><br />Notable Returnees</strong>: Felipe Mattioni (RB), Álvaro Vásquez (FW), Ernesto Galán (RB/CB), Raúl Rodríguez (CB), Jesús Dátolo (WR), Thievy Bifouma "Bifouma" (FW), Rui Fonte (FW), Javi López.<br /><strong><br />Players In:</strong> Juan Albín (<em>Getafe</em>), Adrián Luna (<em>Defensor Sporting</em>), Dídac Vilà (<em>AC</em> <em>Milan</em>), Ferran Corominas “Coro” (<em>Osasuna</em>), Marvin Zeegelaar (<em>Ajax</em>), Héctor Moreno (<em>AZ</em>).<br /><strong><br />Players Out:</strong> Ivan De la Peña (Retired), José Callejón (<em>Real Madrid</em>), Javier Chica “Chica” (<em>Real Betis</em>), David García (Girona), Iván Alonso (<em>Toluca</em>), Aldo Duscher (Barcelona), Manu Molina (SD <em>Huesca</em>), Román Martínez (<em>Tigre</em>), Ángel Martínez (<em>Blackpool</em>), Juanjo Ciércoles (<em>Sabadell</em>)<br /><strong><br />SUMMARY<br /></strong><br />Relatively speaking, Barcelona’s “other team” had the better season last year. Manager Mauricio Pochettino had 275 appearances for Espanyol as a player and became manger in 2009. Expect a 4-3-2-1. As of this writing, the team needs to offload keeper <strong>Carlos Kameni</strong> and still considering a transfer of striker <strong>Osvaldo</strong>, ideally for €20 million. The loses of <strong>José Callejón</strong> and <strong>Javier Chica</strong> will hurt some, but for team with as much youth and depth in quality youth, Espanyol should be able to recalibrate if with the loses of <strong>Carlos Kameni</strong> and <strong>Osvaldo</strong>. In <strong>Joan Verdú</strong>, <strong>Sergio Garcia</strong>, and <strong>Luis García</strong> they have enough versatility and creativity to adjust the offense. At this point, the projected backline of <strong>Dídac Vilà</strong>, <strong>Juan Forlín</strong>, <strong>Jordi Amat</strong>, and <strong>Albert Canal</strong> is very young with an average age just under22, but is extremely talented. Part of last year’s success was youth, and this year will be the same. Other possible revelations include Ex-Arsenal <strong>Rui Fonte</strong>, Ex- Ajax <strong>Marvin Zeegelaar</strong>, <strong>Thievy Bifouma</strong>, and <strong>Álvaro Vásquez</strong> (Osvaldo’s replacement?).<br /><strong><br />Prediction: </strong>9<sup>th </sup>(Fighting for Europe)<br /><br />---------------------------<br /><strong><br />Málaga Club de Fútbol<br /></strong><strong><br />Founded</strong>: 1948 | 10 Years Top Flight | 25<sup>th</sup> All-Time Table<br /><strong>Nicknames</strong>: Boquerones (Anchovies)<br /><strong>Ground</strong>: La Rosaleda (28,963)<br /><strong>Last Year</strong>: 11<sup>th</sup> (46 Pts)<br /><strong>Manager</strong>: Manuel Pellegrini<br /><strong>Formation & Style</strong>: 4-4-2<br /><strong><br />BEST 11<br /></strong><strong><br />Wilfredo Caballero </strong>(GK) | "Willy". Argentina U20 (2001). Age 29. Boca product.<br /><strong>Nacho Monreal</strong> (LM) | "Natxo". Spain 4 caps. Age 25. La Liga's best LB last year.<br /><strong>Joris Mathijsen</strong> (CD-L) | Netherlands 72 caps. Age 31. Willem II product.<br /><strong>Martín Demichelis</strong> (CD-R) | “Micho”. Argentina 33 caps. Age 30. 174 Bayern apps.<br /><strong>Jesús Gámez </strong>(RB) | Spain U23 (2005). Age 26. Málaga product. Captain.<br /><strong>Joaquín Sánchez </strong>(LM) | “Joaquín”. Spain 51 caps. Age 30. Real Betis product.<br /><strong>Jérémy Toulalan</strong> (CM) | France 36 caps. Age 27. Defensive mid. Nantes product.<br /><strong>Antonio Galdeano </strong>(CM) | “Apoño”. Spanish. Age 27. 114 Málaga apps & product.<br /><strong>Santi Cazorla</strong> (RM) | Spain 34 caps. Age 26. Ambidextrous winger. Oviedo product.<br /><strong>Júlio Baptista</strong> (FW) | “The Beast”. Brazil 47 caps. Age 29. Attacking midfielder.<br /><strong>Ruud van Nistelrooy</strong> (FW) | Netherlands 70 caps. Age 35. UCL 2<sup>nd</sup> all-time scorer.<br /><strong><br />Notable Returnees</strong>: Sebastián Fernández (FW), Duda (MF), Rubén Martínez (GK), Enzo Maresca (MF), Eliseu (MF), José Salomón Rondón (FW).<br /><strong><br />Players In:</strong> Francisco Román “Isco” (<em>Valencia</em>), Diego Buonanotte (<em>River Plate</em>), Ruud van Nistelrooy (<em>Hamburg</em>), Nacho Monreal (<em>Osasuna</em>), Joris Mathijsen (<em>Hamburgo</em>), Jérémy Toulalan (<em>Lyon</em>), Sergio Sánchez (<em>Sevilla</em>), Joaquín Sánchez<strong> </strong>(<em>Valencia</em>), Santi Cazorla (<em>Villarreal</em>).<br /><strong><br />Players Out:</strong> Jordi Pablo (<em>Villarreal B</em>), Francesc Arnau (<em>Retirado</em>), Mtiliga (<em>FC</em> <em>Nordsjælland</em>), Sergio Asenjo (<em>Atlético</em>), Manuel Gaspar (<em>Cartagena</em>), Quincy Owusu-Abeyie (<em>Panathinaikos</em>), Javi López (<em>Jaén</em>), Xavi Torres (<em>Levante</em>), Manu Torres (<em>Cartagena</em>), Daniel Toribio (<em>Ponferradina</em>), Edu Ramos (<em>Villarreal B</em>).<br /><strong><br />SUMMARY<br /></strong><br />Manchester City of La Liga? 100% yes. They are buying everyone to win…NOW. 12 months ago, I wrote: “Al-Thani’s plan is to build and invest slowly over the next 3-4 years”. Ha! How quickly things change. The best move was getting manager <strong>Manuel Pellegrini</strong>. The Chilean manager combines South American creativity with European organization. Not that long ago he got Villarreal to the UCL semi’s. He got them out of the relegation scrap last year and will be critical in a team so many new players. Trying to work out their best eleven can be a fun thing. There is a wealth of riches for <strong>Pellegrini</strong> to employ. <strong>Apoño</strong>, <strong>Duda</strong>, <strong>Rondón</strong>, <strong>Eliseu</strong>, <strong>Júlio Baptista</strong>, <strong>Martín Demichelis</strong>, and captain <strong>Jesús Gámez </strong>all return. They’ve added the creative <strong>Santi Cazorla</strong>, the fundamentally adept <strong>Jérémy Toulalan</strong>, <strong>Nacho Monreal</strong>, La Liga’s best left back last year, defensive stalwart <strong>Joris</strong> <strong>Mathijsen</strong>, and blazing winger <strong>Joaquín</strong>. Add these players to a team that finished 11<sup>th</sup> last year and Málaga should make a jump. Expect a lot of goals from Baptista, <strong>van Nistelrooy</strong>, and Rondón.<br /><strong><br />Prediction: </strong>7<sup>th</sup> (Fighting for Europe)<br /><br />--------------------------------<br /><strong><br />Sevilla Fútbol Club S.A.D.<br /></strong><strong><br />Founded</strong>: 1905 | 67 Years Top Flight | 1 Title | 7<sup>th</sup> All-Time Table<br /><strong>Nicknames</strong>: Sevillistas, Rojiblancos (Red-Whites), Los nervionenses<br /><strong>Ground</strong>: Ramón Sánchez Pizjuán (48,649)<br /><strong>Last Year</strong>: 5<sup>th</sup> (58 Pts)<br /><strong>Manager</strong>: Marcelino García Toral<br /><strong>Formation & Style</strong>: 4-4-2<br /><strong><br />BEST 11<br /></strong><strong><br />Andrés Palop</strong> (GK) | Spain call-ups, but no caps. Age 37. Valencia product.<br /><strong>Fernando Navarro</strong> (LB) | Spain 2 caps (2008). Age 29. FC Barcelona product.<br /><strong>Alexis Ruano</strong> (CD-L) | “Alexis”. Spain U21 (2006). Age 26. Center or left back.<br /><strong>Julien Escudé</strong> (CD-R) | France 13 caps. Age 32. 126 Sevilla apps. Cannes product.<br /><strong>Martín Cáceres</strong> (RB) | “Pelado”. Uruguay 33 caps. Age 24. Center, right, & left.<br /><strong>Diego Perotti</strong> (LM) | Argentina 1 cap. Age 23. Left winger & attacking midfielder.<br /><strong>Gary Medel</strong> (CM-L) | “Pitbull”, aka Chili’s Gennaro Gattuso. Chile 33 caps. Age 24.<br /><strong>Ivan Rakitiæ</strong> (CM-R) | “Rakete”. Croatia 35 caps. Age 23. Versatile. Basel product.<br /><strong>Jesús Navas</strong> (RM) | “Navitas”. Spain 13 caps. Age 25. Blazing winger.<br /><strong>Álvaro Negredo</strong> (F) | "La Fiera de Vallecas" (The beast of Vallecas). 20 goals.<br /><strong>Frédéric Kanouté </strong>(F) | Mali 39 caps. African Footballer of the Year (2007). Age 33.<br /><strong><br />Notable Returnees</strong>: Koffi Romaric (MF), Mouhamadou Dabo (RB & LB), Federico Fazio (C-DF) Arouna Koné (FW), Javi Varas (GK).<br /><strong><br />Players In:</strong> Manu del Moral (<em>Getafe</em>), Piotr Trochowski (<em>Hamburg</em>), Martín Cáceres (<em>Barçalona</em>), Coke Andújar (<em>Rayo</em>), Emir Spahiæ (<em>Montpellier</em>), Emiliano Armenteros (<em>Rayo</em>).<br /><strong><br />Players Out:</strong> Alfaro (Mallorca), Lautaro Acosta (<em>Racing Santander</em>), José Carlos (<em>AEK</em>), Juan Torres “Cala” (<em>AEK</em>), Renato Florêncio (<em>Botafogo</em>), Didier Zokora (<em>Trabzonspor</em>), Ivica Dragutinoviæ (<em>Retired</em>), Diego Capel (Sporting CP), Sergio Sánchez (<em>Málaga</em>).<br /><strong><br />SUMMARY<br /></strong><br />Sevilla last year wasn’t the Sevilla we have come to know and love over the past decade. An early exit from the Champions League and a 5<sup>th</sup> place finish were well below expectations last year. <strong>Luis Fabiano</strong> leaving will be a good thing. However, the departures of <strong>Renato</strong>, <strong>Didier Zokora</strong>, <strong>Diego Capel</strong>, and <strong>Sergio Sánchez</strong> will smart a bit. Competing in three competitions, depth could be an issue and the club needs to improve on the 60 goals they conceded last year. The additions of <strong>Manu del</strong> <strong>Moral</strong>, <strong>Piotr Trochowski</strong>, and <strong>Coke Andújar</strong> will help. In terms of a starting 11, the club has a lot. <strong>Jesús Navas</strong> is a world class winger, Negredo scored 20 goals in La Liga last year, <strong>Ivan Rakitiæ</strong> is a creative and versatile midfielder, <strong>Gary Medel</strong> is Chili’s and Sevilla’s midfield “Pitbull”, defender <strong>Martín Cáceres</strong> is coming off a Copa America title with Uruguay, <strong>Fernando Navarro</strong>, <strong>Alexis</strong>, and <strong>Escudé</strong> round out a quality backline. There is a lot for manager Marcelino García Toral to work with. The big thing this year is the top eight in La Liga is very crowded. Sevilla could finish anywhere between 3<sup>rd</sup> and 8<sup>th</sup> and it wouldn’t be a surprise.<br /><strong><br />Prediction: </strong>8<sup>th</sup> (Europa League Qualifier)<br /><br />------------------------------------------------------------<br /><strong><br />Club Atlético de Madrid, S.A.D. (Atlético Madrid)<br /></strong><strong><br />Founded</strong>: 1903 | 74 Years Top Flight | 9 Titles | 5<sup>th</sup> All-Time Table<br /><strong>Nicknames</strong>: Los Colchoneros (Mattress-makers), Los Rojiblancos (Red & Whites)<br /><strong>Ground</strong>: Vicente Calderón (54,851)<br /><strong>Last Year</strong>: 7<sup>th</sup> (58 Pts)<br /><strong>Manager</strong>: Gregorio Manzano<br /><strong>Formation & Style</strong>: 4-4-2 | 4-2-3-1 | 4-1-3-2<br /><strong><br />BEST 11<br /></strong><strong><br />Sergio Asenjo</strong> (GK) | Spain U21 (2010). Age 22. Valladolid product. Up-coming.<br /><strong>Filipe Luís</strong> (LB) | Brazil 1 cap (2009). Age 26. Healthy? Figueirense product.<br /><strong>Diego Godín</strong> (CD-L) | Uruguay 47 caps. Age 25. Physical, composed, distributes.<br /><strong>Álvaro Domínguez</strong> (CD-R) | Spain U19-21. Age 22. Center/left. Atlético product.<br /><strong>Luis Perea</strong> (RB) | Columbia 48 caps. Age 32. Center & right back. Endeavour.<br /><strong>Elias Mendes </strong>(LM) | “Elias”. Brazil 8 caps. Age 26. Box to box. Palmeiras product.<br /><strong>Tiago Mendes</strong> (CM-L) | “Tiago”. Portugal 58 caps. Age 30. Versatile midfielder.<br /><strong>Paulo Assunção</strong> (CM-R) | "Assunção" Brazilian. Age 31. Defensive mid.<br /><strong>José Antonio Reyes</strong> (RM) | “Perla”. Spain 21 caps (2006). Age 27. Sevilla product.<br /><strong>Radamel Falcao </strong>(FW) | Columbia 31 caps. Age 25. World Class. River P. Product.<br /><strong>Diego Forlán</strong> (FW) | “Cachavacha”, Uruguay 82 caps. Age 32. Pichichi winner x2.<br /><strong><br />Notable Returnees</strong>: Mario Suárez (MF), Raúl García (MF), Antonio López (DF), Koke (MF), Fran Merida (MF), Juanfran Torres (MF), Juan Valera (DF), Thibaut Courtois (GK).<br /><strong><br />Players In:</strong> Thibaut Courtois (<em>Chelsea</em>), Tiago Mendes (<em>Juventus</em>), Eduardo Salvio (<em>Benfica</em>), Sergio Asenjo (<em>Málaga</em>), João Miranda (<em>Sau Paulo</em>), Sílvio Pereira (<em>Braga</em>), Adrián López (<em>Deportivo La Coruña</em>), Gabi Fernández (<em>Real Zaragoza</em>), Arda Turan (<em>Galatasaray</em>), Radamel Falcao<strong> </strong>(<em>Porto</em>).<br /><strong><br />Players Out:</strong> Sergio Agüero (<em>Manchester City</em>), Tomáš Ujfaluši (<em>Galatasaray</em>), Sergio Gontán "Keko" (<em>Catania</em>), David De Gea (<em>Manchester United</em>), Germán Pacheco (<em>Karpaty</em>), Juan Valera (<em>Getafe</em>), Raúl García (<em>Osasuna</em>), Rúben Micael (<em>Zaragoza</em>).<br /><strong><br />SUMMARY<br /></strong><br />Last year, Atlético started the season with high hopes coming-off winning the Europa League and UEFA’s Cup Super Cup, and ended with a 7<sup>th</sup> finish; making my 3<sup>rd</sup> place prediction in last year’s WFD La Liga preview look foolish. Former coach, <strong>Quique</strong> <strong>Sánchez Flores</strong>’ cold relationship with <strong>Diego Forlán</strong> probably contributed Atlético’s manic/depressive 2010-11 season. Although a historic power in La Liga, Atlético is known for institutional volatility. The transfer of <strong>Sergio Agüero</strong> to Manchester City could have hurt, but is off-set by the arrival of <strong>Falcao</strong>. A minor recalibration of the team is likely. Although highly respected, new manager, <strong>Gregorio Manzano</strong>, has coached 17 teams in 28 years. With a degree in Psychology, he is master motivator, out the box thinker, and user of unorthodox training methods. This seems fitting. He prefers a 4-4-2 which the club used most of last year. The loss of Agüero and rising goal keeper <strong>David de Gea</strong> will be off-set with a number of great buys including <strong>Sergio Asenjo</strong>, <strong>Adrián López</strong>, <strong>Gabi Fernández</strong>. There is talent and uncertainty.<br /><strong><br />Prediction: </strong>6<sup>th</sup> (Europa League)<br /><br />----------------------------------------<br /><strong><br />Villarreal Club de Fútbol, S.A.D.<br /></strong><strong><br />Founded</strong>: 1923 | 12 Years Top Flight | 20<sup>th</sup> All-Time Table<br /><strong>Nicknames</strong>: El Submarino Amarillo (The Yellow Submarine)<br /><strong>Ground</strong>: El Madrigal (25,000)<br /><strong>Last Year</strong>: 4<sup>th</sup> (62 Pts)<br /><strong>Manager</strong>: Juan Carlos Garrido<br /><strong>Formation & Style</strong>: 4-4-2 / 4-3-3<br /><strong><br />BEST 11<br /></strong><strong><br />Diego López</strong> (GK) | Spain 1 cap (2009). Age 29. Lugo product.<br /><strong>Cristián Zapata</strong> (LB) | Columbia 27 caps. Age 24. CB/RB. Deportivo Cali product.<br /><strong>Mateo Musacchio </strong>(CD-L) | Argentina 2 caps. Age 20. Revelation. River product.<br /><strong>Carlos Marchena</strong> (CD-R) | “"El Mataor de Sevilla"”. Spain 67 caps. Age 32.<br /><strong>Ángel López </strong>(RB) | Spain 5 caps (2008). Age 30. RB/RM. Las Palmas product.<br /><strong>Borja Valero</strong> (LM) | Spain 1 cap (2011). Age 26. Central Mid. Real Madrid Product.<br /><strong>Marcos Senna</strong> (CM-L) | Spain 28 caps. Age 35. 228 Villarreal apps. Central Mid.<br /><strong>Bruno Soriano Llido</strong> (CM-R) | “Bruno”. Spain 2 caps. Age 27. Defensive Mid.<br /><strong>Javier Camuñas</strong> (RM) | Spanish. Age 31. Attacking Mid, Winger, or Striker.<br /><strong>Giuseppe Rossi</strong> (F) | “Bambino”. Italy 24 caps. Age 24. 32 goals all competitions.<br /><strong>Nilmar Honorato </strong>(F) | “Nilmar”. Brazil 23 caps. Age 27. Internacional product.<br /><strong><br />Notable Returnees</strong>: Gonzalo Rodríguez (DF), Ruben Cani (MF), Joan Oriol (DF), Marco Ruben (FW), Hernán Pérez (MF), Mario Gaspar (DF), José Catalá (DF), Wakaso Mubarak (MF), Bruno Soriano (MF), Gerard Bordas (FW).<br /><strong><br />Players In:</strong> César Sánchez (<em>Valencia</em>), Edu Ramos (<em>Málaga</em>), Cristián Zapata (<em>Udinese</em>), Javier Camuñas (Osasuna).<br /><strong><br />Players Out:</strong> Santi Cazorla (<em>Málaga</em>), Javier Oliva, Cícero João “Cicinho” (<em>Roma</em>), Juan Carlos (<em>Levante</em>), Iván Marcano (<em>Olympiacos</em>), Joan Capdevila (<em>Benfica</em>), Jozy Altidore (<em>AZ</em>), Cristóbal Márquez (FC Karpaty Lviv), Javier Matilla (<em>Real Betis</em>), Jefferson Montero (<em>Real Betis</em>).<br /><strong><br />SUMMARY<br /></strong><br />Villarreal, top flight since 2000, enjoyed a great first half last season and then slow decline, but finished 4<sup>th</sup>. They recently qualified for the UCL group stages. Villarreal aggressively press and use quick passing game. Manager Juan Carlos Garrido has been known to deploy numerous formations. Like many in La Liga, the club has needed to reduce its wage bill. Transferred out are <strong>Santi Cazorla</strong>, <strong>Jozy Altidore</strong>, <strong>Joan Capdevila</strong>, <strong>Cristóbal</strong> <strong>Márquez</strong>, <strong>Javier Matilla</strong>, and <strong>Jefferson Montero</strong>. Cazorla and Capdevilla will hurt, but the rest are replaceable. Year in year old the past decade, they’ve rebuilt and won. <strong>Cristián Zapata</strong> should indirectly or directly somewhat help compensate for Capdevilla. The same goes for <strong>Javier Camuñas</strong> for Cazorla. The midfield is still very strong with the creative <strong>Borja Valero</strong>, rock-solid <strong>Bruno Soriano</strong>, aging wonder <strong>Marcos Senna</strong>, and Ruben Cani. Defensively, <strong>Mateo Musacchio</strong> was a revelation last year and <strong>Carlos Marchena</strong> is a quality top flight center back. Up top, Giuseppe Rossi and Nilmar are one of the two or three best forward pairings in La Liga and UCL.<br /><strong><br />Prediction: </strong>5<sup>th</sup> (Europa League)<br /><br />---------------------------<br /><strong><br />Athletic Club (Bilbao)<br /></strong><strong><br />Founded</strong>: 1898 | 80 Years Top Flight | 8 Titles | 4<sup>th</sup> All-Time Table<br /><strong>Nicknames</strong>: Los Leones (The Lions)<br /><strong>Ground</strong>: San Mamés (39,750)<br /><strong>Last Year</strong>: 6<sup>th</sup> (58 Pts)<br /><strong>Manager</strong>: Marcelo Bielsa<br /><strong>Formation & Style</strong>: 4-5-1 (Counter-Attacking) or the 3-3-1-3 of Chile?<br /><strong><br />BEST 11<br /></strong><strong><br />Gorka Iraizoz</strong> (GK) | 30 year old Spanish veteran stalwart goal keeper.<br /><strong>Koikili Lertxundi</strong> (LB) | 30 year old Spanish journeyman left back.<br /><strong>Fernando Amorebieta</strong> (CD-L) | Venezuelan-Spanish yellow-card latten center back.<br /><strong>Mikel San José</strong> (CD-R) | Fine 22 year old Spanish central and utility defender.<br /><strong>Andoni Iraola</strong> (RB) Veteran with 5 Spanish caps, passes well, pugnacious.<br /><strong>Javi Martínez</strong> (MF) | World Cup winner. He starts on any team, but Barçalona.<br /><strong>Ander Herrera</strong> (MF) | U20 Spanish International. His signing may tip the scales.<br /><strong>Iker Muniain</strong> (MF) | U20 Spanish International. A revelation last year.<br /><strong>Carlos Gurpegi</strong> (MF) | 30 year old Spanish defensive mid-fielder.<br /><strong>Gaizka Toquero</strong> (FW) | Spanish forward who’s work-rate earned him a starting role.<br /><strong>Fernando Llorente</strong> (FW) | “Lion King”, World Cup winner, & Top 10 Global Striker.<br /><strong><br />Notable Returnees</strong>: Markel Susaeta (MF), Pablo Orbaiz (MF), Borja Ekiza (DF), David López (DF), Igor Gabilondo (MF), Xabier Castillo (DF), Jon Aurtenetxe (DF).<br /><strong><br />Players In:</strong> Ander Herrera (<em>Real Zaragoza</em>),<br /><strong><br />Players Out</strong>: Ion Vélez (<em>Girona FC</em>), Mikel Orbegozo (<em>Las Palmas</em>), Urko Vera (<em>Bilbao Athletic</em>), Díaz de Cerio (<em>Córdoba</em>), Íñigo Pérez (<em>Huesca</em>), Iban Zubiaurre (<em>Albacete</em>).<br /><strong><br />SUMMARY<br /></strong><br />Bilbao is one of 3 clubs that have never been relegated from La Liga. Known for their “Basque policy” of either developing Basque youth players and/or signing professional players native to the greater Basque Country inside and outside of Spain, Bilbao had a better than expected season in 2010-2011 qualifying for the Europa League with a 6<sup>th</sup> place La Liga finish. The past few years they have been a big, strong, physical team that knocks down opponents and then hits them on the counterattack and set-plays. Tactically, this year we could see a very different Bilbao from new coach <strong>Marcelo Bielsa</strong>. Bielsa’s Chile in this past World Cup played a very attacking 3-3-1-3. It will be interesting to see how he’ll mold his attacking principles around a team build very differently personnel-wise. Bilbao has depth and talent all over the field. Target-man forward <strong>Fernando Llorente</strong> and multi-dimensional mid-fielder <strong>Javi Martínez</strong> are world class players that won the World Cup with Spain and would walk into almost any team’s starting eleven. Combine them with utility defender, <strong>Mikel San José</strong>, and keeper, <strong>Gorka Iraizoz</strong>, and you have a very strong spine. Add in attacking midfielders <strong>Ander Herrera</strong> and <strong>Iker Muniain</strong>, both Spanish U20 Internationals and rising stars, and Bielsa’s attacking philosophies may bear fruit. With Bilbao’s talent and personnel stability, a top four finish is must-have goal for Los Leones, even with a new coach and new philosophy.<br /><strong><br />Prediction: </strong>7<sup>th</sup> Place (Champions League)<br /><br />-----------------------------<br /><strong><br />Valencia Club de Fútbol<br /></strong><strong><br />Founded</strong>: 1919 | 73 Years Top Flight | 6 Titles | 3<sup>rd</sup> All-Time Table<br /><strong>Nicknames</strong>: Los Che (Surprise / Exclamation), Murciélagos (Bats), Valencianistas<br /><strong>Ground</strong>: Mestalla (55,000)<br /><strong>Last Year</strong>: 3<sup>rd</sup> (71 Pts)<br /><strong>Manager</strong>: Unai Emery<br /><strong>Formation & Style</strong>: 4-4-2 / 4-2-3-1<br /><strong><br />BEST 11<br /></strong><strong><br />Diego Alves </strong>(GK) | Brazilian. Age 26. Penalty shot stopper. Rising star.<br /><strong>Jérémy Mathieu </strong>(LB) | France U21 (2006). Age 27. LB/winger. Sochaux product.<br /><strong>Hedwiges Maduro</strong> (CD-L) | Netherlands 14 caps. Age 26. CB/Df Mid. Ajax product.<br /><strong>Ricardo Costa </strong>(CD-R) | Portugal 10 caps. Age 30. CB or fullback. Boavista product.<br /><strong>Miguel Monteiro </strong>(RB) | “Miquel”. Portugal 59 caps. Age 31. Sporting CP product.<br /><strong>Daniel Parejo</strong> (LM) | “Dani”. Spain U21. Age 22. Central Mid. Real Madrid product.<br /><strong>David Albelda </strong>(CM-L) | Spain 51 caps (2008). 312 Valencia apps. Age 33. Alzira.<br /><strong>Éver Banega </strong>(CM-R) | “Tanguito”. Argentina 9 caps. Age 23. Boca Juniors Product..<br /><strong>Pablo Hernández </strong>(RM) | Spain 4 caps. Age 23. Right winger. Valencia product.<br /><strong>Aritz Aduriz</strong> (FW) | “El Zorro”. Spain 1 cap (2010). Age 30. Antiguoko product.<br /><strong>Roberto Soldado </strong>(FW)<strong> </strong>| “Soldier”. Spain 2 caps (2007). Age 26. R. Madrid Product.<br /><strong><br />Notable Returnees</strong>: Alberto Tino Costa (MF), Bruno Saltor (DF), Mehmet Topal (MF), Jonas (FW), Vicente Guaita (GK), Ángel Dealbert (DF), Jordi Alba (MF), Miguel Monteiro (DF).<br /><strong><br />Players In:</strong> Adil Rami (<em>Lille</em>), Diego Alves<strong> </strong>(<em>Almería</em>), Feghouli (<em>Almería</em>), Daniel Parejo (<em>Getafe</em>), Pablo Piatti (<em>Almería</em>), Cristiano Pereira (<em>Braga</em>), Sergio Canales (<em>Real Madrid</em>).<br /><strong><br />Players Out:</strong> Asier del Horno (<em>Levante</em>), David Navarro (<em>Neuchatel</em>), Vicente Rodríguez, César Sánchez (<em>Villarreal</em>), Miguel Alfonso "Míchel" (<em>Hércules</em>), Francisco Román “Isco” (<em>Málaga</em>), Chori Domínguez (<em>River Plate</em>), Joaquín Sánchez<strong> </strong>(<em>Málaga</em>), Manuel Fernandes (<em>Besiktas</em>), Renan Brito (<em>Internacional</em>), Nacho González (<em>Standard Liège</em>), Anthony Lozano “Choco” (<em>CD Alcoyano</em>).<br /><strong><br />SUMMARY<br /></strong><br />Valencia, 6 time La Liga winners, are 3<sup>rd</sup> on La Liga’s all-time table, finished 3<sup>rd</sup> the last two years, and have a good chance to finish (you guessed it) 3<sup>rd</sup> this year. This will prove very hard. To reduce its wage bill (like everyone in La Liga it seems), they’ve need to sell players at a premium and find more economical replacements. Two years ago they sold David Silva and David Villa bought <strong>Artiz Aduriz</strong> and <strong>Roberto Soldado</strong> to good effect. This year, they have relieved themselves of 16 players via sales, contract terminations, or free transfers. <strong>Juan Mata</strong> and <strong>Joaquín</strong> <strong>Sánchez</strong> were sold at premiums. Mata’s loss will sting. But, the club has bought very well with <strong>Adil Rami</strong>, <strong>Diego Alves, Daniel Parejo</strong>, <strong>Pablo Piatti</strong>, <strong>Cristiano</strong> <strong>Pereira</strong>, and <strong>Sergio Canales</strong>. Oddly enough, they may be better again replacing a World Class player like Mata with a few very good players. Outside or Madrid or Barca, Valencia probably has the next best first 20 players in a squad.<br /><strong><br />Prediction: </strong>3<sup>rd</sup> (Champions League)</p>
Stephen Kuzner
2011-08-25T14:28:00Z
Real Madrid overcome Galatasaray challenge
Aydin Reyhan
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Real-Madrid-overcome-Galatasaray-challenge/403876186933849322.html
2011-08-25T05:46:00Z
2011-08-25T05:46:00Z
<p>Galatasaray were the guests as Real Madrid hosted their annual Santiago Bernabeu trophy earlier today against the Turkish giants. Madrid was obviously favored but in the first ten minutes, Gala didn’t let that faze them, at all.</p>
<p>Ten minutes in, Emmanuel Eboue lightly passed the ball into the 6 yard box to Selcuk Inan who slammed it home to give the Turkish side a surprising 1-0 lead. After that goal, Madrid picked up the pace after a very slow start.</p>
<p>At the 34<sup>th</sup> minute, Xabi Alonso sent a corner kick directly into Sergio Ramos’s path who headed home the equalizer into the top corner. Keeper Fernando Muslera made some impressive saves up till that point but that was simply less than average defending by his team mates.</p>
<p>The first half ended with the score tied at 1 apiece but then the second half came around. Karim Benzema, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Mesut Ozil all entered the match and Madrid began to play even better. Just six minutes in, Karim Benzema easily slotted the ball past Muslera in a 1 v 1 opportunity. The Gala defense had pulled up a bit too far and Benzema easily made the run from an onside position. Madrid led 2-1 at that point.</p>
<p>The match would finish with that score but even though it was a loss, 2-1 was very generous to the Turkish club. They started out brilliantly but then allowed Madrid to find their rhythm.</p>
<p>Galatasaray played decently in this match but were simply outclassed. The 4-2-3-1 formation works for Real Madrid because every field player on that squad can run, make plays, defend, and play with a true desire. Coach Fatih Terim chose to use the same formation for his players. It’s good to match the opposing team, except when it’s against the caliber, speed, technique, and simple brilliance of Real Madrid.</p>
<p>Gonzalo “Pipa” Higuain is a quick player who can shoot from just about anywhere. He fits the bill perfectly for that position. Milan Baros was the lone striker for Gala and it did not pay off as he didn’t get a single accurate shot off. He does not have the pace one needs to play in that position.</p>
<p>The midfield choices made by Terim was absolutely brilliant with Eboue, Sabri, and Kazim all lining up from right to left respectively. Melo and Inan stood tall and strong behind those three and Inan connected well with Eboue for the goal. That play was the only positive for Gala that paid off. Sabri has played right back during his entire career. If Terim thinks it’s a good idea to try him out in the central attacking midfield position to experiment, well he certainly got his answer as it did not pay off.</p>
<p>For the new season, Terim needs to put at least one more striker up top to assist Baros in scoring. Johan Elmander is tall, strong, and has a wicked shot. The only problem with him is that he is not quick at all. He will make a good run but the player who will give him the final pass has to do most of the work in order to grab a goal.</p>
<p>Defensively, Gala is set with former Atletico right back Tomas Ujfalusi cementing his place in the starting eleven. The center backs are Gokhan Zan and Servet Cetin with Hakan Balta defending on the left. The goal keeper is absolutely way above the Turkish league as Muslera has recently won the COPA America with his beloved nation of Uruguay. He made some unforgettable saves to carry his team past hosts Argentina in the quarter-finals which allowed them to advance to the semis and then to cup glory.</p>
<p>Galatasaray have an above average team to compete in the Turkish league but it is a good thing that they will not be playing in Europe this year as they will not be able to compete with the best of the best. They should easily win the Turkish title by withstanding challenges from Trabzonspor, Besiktas, and Fenerbahce (if they are not relegated due to match-fixing allegations).</p>
<p>It will be a good year for Galatasaray as long as they avoid injuries and Fatih Terim puts Sabri on the right flank, gives Baros help up top, and play smart, quick soccer to win their games. The Turkish Super League commences on September 9<sup>th</sup> this year and Galatasaray’s first opponent is yet to be named. Stay tuned as there will be a weekly update about everything Galatasaray in the world of soccer. </p>
Aydin Reyhan
2011-08-25T05:46:00Z
Fear the Wounded Animal
Joaquin Reyes
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Fear-the-Wounded-Animal/792837449208443870.html
2011-08-24T07:00:00Z
2011-08-24T07:00:00Z
<p>This is truly the lowest point in recent Arsenal history. This summer has left a foul taste in the mouths of all supporters, even the eternally optimistic like me. For my generation it is difficult to remember Arsenal without Wenger, unless you grew up in London. I only know Arsenal under Wenger and I fear for the day he is no longer manager. Hopefully, he will go out on his own terms and line up a proper successor to take over the reins and lead Arsenal to the Promised Land.</p>
<p>With that being said, he’s taken a huge gamble that unfortunately may define a trophy less period of his era and could really fuck up the near future for the club. To call an institution of such prestige and accolade to be in a crisis when they are the only club that should be a role model for success and living within their means for all other clubs about, is a bit much. I understand that Arsene did not want to lose two of his prized assets this summer, but he knew they wanted out and has waited late in the transfer market in order to find the best deals as usual. The problem is that the price to be paid if Arsenal does not qualify for the group stage is immeasurable. We as Arsenal fans only know seasons filled with Champions League nights (or lunches for us on the West Coast) and the outrage if we do not qualify will be immense to say the least. </p>
<p>The negativity about has reached critical levels and seem to have come to a boiling point. One thing to remember through all this is that Arsene is not the only one to blame here. The board has come to look increasingly inept and Gazidis has yet to show us his might in terms of sealing transfers. Why did we lose out on Mata to Chelsea, one or two million pounds? We don’t really know the facts but not many are impressed. Ivan seems to say the right things but the fans care about actions. He has one week to sort it out. Remember that this match would never be a point of contention if the team hadn’t fallen apart in the last two months of the season and dropped from second to fourth. The let down is something that should weigh heavily on the shoulders of the players and should they not qualify, they must know that it’s their own doing.</p>
<p>There is much to be said about the way Liverpool and Manchester United handled their business this summer. Although it is clear to me both (especially Liverpool) overpaid to secure their targets early in the summer, the fact they were able to play a whole preseason together and develop an understanding is a great advantage to have over rivals bringing in players once the season has begun. Arsene loves the bargain bin but the early season fixture list and Champions League qualifier don’t afford you that luxury. As much as Arsene made his hopes clear, they were not realistic. It seems Fábregas knew he was going to leave all summer and was pretty evident to all. It was understandable to hold out for proper money as Barcelona were being completely disrespectful and low-balling as though they had Divine Right to Cesc’s Barca DNA. I had utmost faith Na$ri would sign a new contract in the off-season until I heard the deal on the table from City, along with the bad blood between Wenger and his agent. We know Arsene didn’t think he’d be betrayed by one of his French disciples, but don’t come out and say something like this that is going to make you look stupid later.</p>
<p>Arsene Wenger - "Imagine the worst situation, that we lose Fábregas and Nasri; you cannot convince people that you are ambitious after that"</p>
<p>We all know Arsenal are a great and prosperous club, but the proposition of Europa League football and losing our best players without replacements is unthinkable. I do expect Wenger to spend at least 40-50 million but now there is speculation that players are waiting to ensure that we compete in the Champions League this season. If true I can’t blame the prospected targets because many of them come from clubs that will be competing in the Champions League this season, and that’s a fair thing to want as an ambitious footballer. We want world class talent, and world class talents want to be playing on the biggest stage. I pray this risk by Wenger pans out because shit will hit the fan if Arsenal crash out in Italy.</p>
<p>On to the actual football at hand, the Arsenal side that has flown to Italy is one of the most inexperienced sides I’ve ever seen us put out in Europe other than a garbage last group stage match. That said there is plenty of quality there to secure qualification. The players (most) aren’t stupid and are aware of the media and hype and are sure to have read some of the bullshit being spewed from all the papers. It really seems the English media want nothing more than to see Arsenal fail. There are characters of true grit in the side and are great leaders and role models for the rest of the squad. My preference for captain would have been Vermaelen, but he and van Persie are both determined and will let all know what is expected of them. Just watching Vermaelen in these few games so far makes you think of what could have been last season were he fit. Nevertheless, he wasn’t fit and we move forward but the intensity and vigor with which he plays the game is evident to even the least trained eye. With the departure of Cesc we haven’t seen anyone naturally step in to fill the void and the side looks bereft of creativity through the middle of the park. Many Gooners would love to see Arshavin given that role as that is his preferred position and where he lit the Euros alight with Russia but apparently Wenger doesn’t agree. Ramsey should continue through the middle, and I have plenty of faith that he is the real deal, but one thing we can’t forget that he, just like Jack, is young and not going to produce those great displays week in week out yet. He appeared a bystander in the match against Liverpool against a vastly overrated midfield and the own goal personified his performance, unfortunate and in the wrong place. I expect him to bounce back, the young man has shown great determination and looks to have moved past his horrific injury, but it takes time to build consistency. </p>
<p>There are defenders back fit so the back line shouldn’t be as shoddy as we would have suspected a couple days ago and Djourou and Traore likely to feature. This match will be all about containing play and attacking smartly on the counter. Song will give us help in the midfield but I really expect Gervinho to make an impact. He performed on the big stage with Lille last season scoring and creating crucial goals in the run in to the Ligue 1 and Coupe de France double. Our best weapon will be our speed on the counter attack and his direct style should create some opportunities for himself and Robin. An early goal would settle the nerves but this is the Arsenal we are talking about so I expect a nervy ride but I expect us to progress. Hopefully the enormity of this match won’t be lost on the men and they will rise together to make a statement to world football that we are no club in crisis, perennial performers in the top competitions, and a force to be reckoned with. This may be a Champions League year for us, never say never. We can only hope to see a performance worthy of the badge and one hundred percent effort from all parties involved. I have faith that Robin and Thomas will ensure we get the result.</p>
Joaquin Reyes
2011-08-24T07:00:00Z
A Footie Fan's First Trip to Crew Stadium
Matt Barry
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/A-Footie-Fans-First-Trip-to-Crew-Stadium/681327273317849971.html
2011-08-24T01:03:00Z
2011-08-24T01:03:00Z
<p>A close friend of mine, die-hard soccer fan, and your WFD Kick About Atletico Madrid Blogger Joseph Zucker, finally made it out to his first Columbus Crew and MLS match on August 13<sup>th</sup>, a 3-1 Crew win over the visiting New England Revolution. Joseph and I attended our first soccer game together this past Db ecember at Craven Cottage, a Boxing Day derby between Fulham FC and West Ham United. Joseph was kind enough to share his thoughts on the differences between his experience at the Cottage and his experience at Crew Stadium. I was also fortunate enough to get his thoughts on the general Crew Stadium experience, Columbus supporters culture, this year’s Crew team, and the future of the team in Columbus. You can read his responses below.</p>
<p><strong><br /> 1) What were your expectations going into your first Crew experience?</strong></p>
<p>I expected to hear a passionate crowd. I knew that while the entire stadium wouldn't be full, there would at least be a pocket of the stadium that would be on its feet and yelling the entire match.<br /> <br /> <strong>2) Did it live up to those expectations?</strong></p>
<p>I feel it lived up to those expectations. It really seemed like a friendly atmosphere where even if you didn't know anybody, as long as you had that Crew badge on, you were among friends. On the other hand, this is a club that is first in the conference, and the stadium is just a little over half-full. It was a little disappointing, I guess.<br /> <br /> <br /> <strong>3) What were your thoughts on the stadium and atmosphere? The Nordecke?</strong></p>
<p>The Nordecke really impressed me, especially seeing the different tifos and flags. The one thing I will say negatively is that the singing and chanting needs to get a little more creative. And then you look at what they're doing up in the Northwest, and it really makes you jealous. The Crew are the only game in town right now, and their other pro competition is the Blue Jackets. The Buckeyes only play once a week during football season. There really isn't any excuse as to why Columbus can't adopt a larger soccer culture.<br /> <br /></p>
<p><br /> <strong>4) How would you compare the experience you had at the Crew game to your experience at Craven Cottage? </strong></p>
<p>It's almost like comparing apples and oranges to put Crew Stadium and Craven Cottage side by side. Back in December, I had kept saying how unbelievable it was to actually be in a Premier League stadium watching a league match. At the same time, I got the same feeling to a certain extent with the Crew. It was just unbelievable that I was at an MLS match. The atmosphere was just more electric at Craven Cottage. It was the Premier League. It was Boxing Day. It was the Fulham/West Ham derby. You had 25,000 people crammed into such a quaint little stadium, and I just pictured what it must have been like on that night Fulham beat Juventus.<br /> <br /> <strong>5) Where do you see supporters culture going in the future in Columbus?</strong></p>
<p> I kind of worry about the Crew's future in general. I wonder if there will come a time where seemingly in every sport, business takes over. I just worry that MLS will only see the low attendances and believe their league would be better off financially to move to a different city. As I have said to you, though, at a few different times, I can also see a point 20-30 years down the road when the stadium is packed. You would look back on these days as simply a time when the club and league was still growing.<br /> <strong><br /> 6) What are your thoughts on this year's Crew team? How far can they go?</strong></p>
<p>I think the Crew are overachieving quite a bit. They're clearly having a great year, sitting atop the East. I think, though, once the playoffs start, they could run into trouble. I think they've gotten a little lucky over the entire year, and sometime, that luck will run out. They could win the East, but I don't see any way they could win the Cup. They have players you can really get behind. You have the scrappers like Julius James, a club hero like Chad Marshall, a promising young player in Dilly Duka, and Robbie Rogers, who has picked up national team caps.<br /> <strong><br /> 7) Other final thoughts?</strong></p>
<p>I would love to go back to a Crew match. It's just great to stick it to the higher ups at MLS and watch a club like Columbus succeed. You know every year they want a Galaxy/Red Bulls final. You see those guys bring in Thierry Henry, Robbie Keane, and David Beckham. Then the Crew makes their DP Andres Mendoza. The deck is clearly stacked against the club. I don't know what the club have to do to attract more fans. Maybe it's just something that will grow organically with the city. I think Columbus as a city is growing quite a bit itself, and maybe the club is something that will be a part of that.<br /> <br /></p>
<p><em>A special mention for this post goes to the family of Joel Reynaga, a devoted Crew fan and La Turbina Amarilla member. Joel lost his life in a tragic accident in the Crew Stadium parking lot after the August 13<sup>th</sup> match. One banner at this past weekend’s game read, “Your Drum is the Beat of Our Heart.” I could not express my feelings any better. I got goosebumps on Saturday night as members of the Nordecke placed yellow carnations on Joel’s drum and sang a robust rendition of “Columbus ‘Til I Die”, led by members of Reynaga’s family. Rest in peace, Joel. You will be missed.</em></p>
<p> </p>
<p>You can follow me on Twitter: @bearinthebus</p>
<p>You can also follow Joseph on Twitter: @JZuckYNWAtleti</p>
Matt Barry
2011-08-24T01:03:00Z
Liver N' Onions Week 8/22/11
Nash Larson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Liver-N-Onions-Week-8/22/11/318333658915149227.html
2011-08-23T22:44:00Z
2011-08-23T22:44:00Z
<p>Your Liver:</p>
<p>On paper it looks a good result for Liverpool, 2-0 win against Arsenal, though be it a struggling Arsenal. If you are like me - devoted - staying up for kickoff at 1am hawaiian pacific time, or 4am on the west coast, you would know it was anything but. Two dodgy goals saved Liverpool fans from another speed bump in their season's takeoff, but the brace exists as only as a blanket, covering their blemishes. </p>
<p>A wins is a win, and it was this that saved Liverpool from further scrutiny. The game started as an exciting spectacle with Wenger playing a youthful midfield, more by restriction than choice. Frimpong added some youthful steel to the midfield in which youth and the decisions that come with it earned him a sight at red. Suarez sat from the beginning with Kenny giving him the most rest possible after a long summer of football. When brought on, the major realization for me, and hopefully the world over, is how absolutely key Luis Suarez is to this team. When introduced midway into the second half, the light bulbs were a-flashing over the heads of the reds, acting as the catalyst to all things good for the Merseyside club. Before this. the midfield of Henderson and Adam looked solid against the soft Arsenal center, but still lacked that creative spark.</p>
<p>Suarez's movement is second to none, and with the introduction Meireles from the bench spoke of his importance to the team as well. He is a must start for me! He had a fantastic last season, and his importance was cemented at the Emirates. In my mind, it's a case of Dalgleish playing favorites. He brought in these new English boys and he wants to play them. There are two classy players sitting on the bench, with limited shots in proving they belong in the team from the start. I have spoken of Meireles and you know how I feel on that subject. The second is Alberto Aquilani. Rumors this week preach interest from AC Milan, which might actually be a go vs. the roller coaster summer of transfer links associated with the Italian. The player who at Liverpool, failed to impress, though chances were limited due to injury and lack of form, rendering him with the price tag, a flop. I say Give him a shot! This summer he looked hungry, whether to prove himself at Liverpool or to put himself in the shop window is unclear but the taste for game is there.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Your Onions:</p>
<p>More Rumors this week coming from Italy is the re-emerging link between Dirk Kuyt and Inter Milan. The blue collar Dutchman works tirelessly for Liverpool and his departure would not be a welcomed one. As an elder statesman up top, his experience is key and is a figure to look up to from the youthful Carroll and Henderson. Starting roles may be scarce, but this aging utility man will give 358% what ever position he is put in.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8PSg0qDbekQ/TlQszlXmpRI/AAAAAAAAAOI/HocWmDEcQeY/s1600/raul_meireles_jokingly_gives_lucas_the_finger.jpg"><img style="float: right;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8PSg0qDbekQ/TlQszlXmpRI/AAAAAAAAAOI/HocWmDEcQeY/s320/raul_meireles_jokingly_gives_lucas_the_finger.jpg" border="0" alt="" width="320" height="179" /></a>Other rumors come in the shape of EPL new-boys QPR, pursing a loan move for shabby, shabby Joe Cole. Cole has strait up disappointed at Liverpool! Out of form, shape, mindset…you name it. Has had limited playing time as well, but when given a shot to do anything good he has absolutely failed. Get him out. A Loan move would be the best option as he racks up some regular time and manages to increase his stock, Liverpool can sell him for a higher price. At a team like QPR, that frankly will need all the help they can get, Joe can play some football and come season's end Dalgleish can asses whether he's worth keeping.</p>
<p>After the Merciless Meireles set up Suarez for the second goal, cameras caught the radical misfit flipping Lucas the bird, then poppin' a grin…next time it will be the kiss from the Godfather, " I know it was you, and it warms my heart!" Was it a joke? Who cares? There needs to be some bite. </p>
Nash Larson
2011-08-23T22:44:00Z
Villarreal spear their way into Champions League
Aydin Reyhan
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Villarreal-spear-their-way-into-Champions-League/831126100346157946.html
2011-08-23T21:27:00Z
2011-08-23T21:27:00Z
<p>The "Yellow Submarines" played a game that had its ups and downs but in the end, Villarreal was the team left smiling. After winning 3-0 in the game which is 3-1 on aggregate, they won the right to play in the UEFA Champions League group stage.</p>
<p>The first half ended scoreless with Villarreal at one point out-shooting their opponents 10-0. The second half is where most if not all of the excitement took place.</p>
<p> Just 5 minutes into the second half, Nilmar crossed the ball to an open Rossi whose shot deflected into the goal after a deflection by the Odense keeper Wessels. It was an unlucky goal for Wessels to allow but it makes up for all the goals the submarines should have scored past him.</p>
<p> At the 66<sup>th</sup> minute, Rogerio Cani, who wears the number 10 for Villarreal, gave an assist that will never be forgotten. Dribbling up the right flank, about 40 yards away from the end line, he unleashes a long curling cross which is volleyed home by Giuseppe Rossi who grabbed his second of the night.</p>
<p> Kadrii would receive a red card at the 71<sup>st</sup> minute for his deliberate foul on Zapata leaving the trailing side with 10 men for the rest of the match. However, the playing field would be evened out after Borja Valero head-butted an opposing player for accidentally kicking his head after a foul. It was absolutely unnecessary especially from a player who almost never allows himself to lose his mind in an important game. Valero will miss the opening game of the group stage.</p>
<p> A man who should have scored only seconds after coming into the game, Claudio Marchena does score after unleashing a shot which is accidentally tipped in by keeper Wessels in the 82<sup>nd</sup> minute. This put the icing on the cake for an enthusiastic performance by the home side.</p>
<p> Marco Ruben would have added another one after finding himself in a one v one situation but instead of shooting into the bottom right corner, he fused a shot right at Wessels who smacked it over his goal.</p>
<p> The first leg ended in a 1-0 loss for the submarines but they surely should have won that one as well. They had better, clear cut chances than Odense but after an error by Zapata on defense, Andreasen struck it home after cutting past another defender.</p>
<p> Villarreal knew they had to come in strong today and they did just that. An area of concern in the last game and the first half of this one was up top. Nilmar has been quiet on the scoring front and Giuseppe Rossi has been taking many shots but not scoring. However this did not cause coach Garrido to lose confidence in his Italian-American ace of a striker. Rossi continued to shoot in the first half and second and finally grabbed a brace that eventually led his club to victory.</p>
<p> Borja Valero's red card was absolutely a good call by the ref because the Spanish international midfielder head-butted his opponent. Zinedine Zidane was ejected from a World Cup final 6 years ago. Did Valero think he would receive otherwise? It was a very huge error by the player but in the end, his club still won 2-0, 3-1 on aggregate.</p>
<p> Valero will miss the opening match of the group stage but besides that, Villarreal have a lot to celebrate. Rossi staying with the club, and they have advanced to the group stage of Europe's best club competition. If Rossi stays for the whole year, they should be solid up top if he continues to score. They have a solid squad which should lead them far into the latter stages of Europe and at least a top four finish in Spain. </p>
<p> The sale of key midfielder Santi Cazorla to Malaga was expected to hurt them. However somehow they managed to cop thus far and will have to continue to do so.</p>
<p> They played a great game today and will continue to impress in the matches that will be played. For updates and analysis on Villarreal, keep on reading every week only on World Football Daily. </p>
Aydin Reyhan
2011-08-23T21:27:00Z
Premier League Recap (August 20-22)
Adam Johnson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Premier-League-Recap-August-20-22/578680180555790774.html
2011-08-23T15:08:00Z
2011-08-23T15:08:00Z
<p>The second weekend of the Premier League was more entertaining than the first, even though each team still has holes to fill, most notably Arsenal. The club’s former captain, Cesc Fabregas has finally left Arsenal for his hometown and boyhood club, Barcelona. Samir Nasri, despite playing on Saturday for the Gunners, is most likely on his way to Manchester. So the north London club had many questions ahead of their clash with new-look Liverpool. Here is how that game played out, along with the nine others.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Arsenal 0-2 Liverpool</span></p>
<p>This was undoubtedly the biggest match on Saturday with both teams really wanting a win and going for it. The first half ended goalless with the clubs feeling each other out and playing their particular style: Arsenal attractive, Liverpool aggressive. Everything kicked off, however, when Emmanuel Frimpong got his second yellow card and was sent off. Luis Suarez came on and Liverpool instantly looked better. The first goal came on a freakish deflection and own goal by Aaron Ramsey while trying to defend Suarez. The second was a neat finish after a nice build up, again from Suarez. Liverpool seems to have an identity and they will be a tough team to beat this season.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Sunderland 0-1 Newcastle</span></p>
<p>The bitter rivals from northeast England squared off with both teams coming off of encouraging draws last weekend. This derby match really got going when Seb Larrson used his arm to block a Joey Barton header from going in for Newcastle. Ref, Howard Webb, didn’t see it and therefore didn’t give the penalty. Sunderland had chances but they amounted to nothing. In the second half Newcastle got the breakthrough on a Ryan Taylor free kick. It was all they needed as the away side held on for the victory.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Everton 0-1 QPR</span></p>
<p>Everton’s season got under way after their opener against Spurs was postponed. The notoriously slow starting club got off to a slow start for yet another season with a 1-0 home loss to newly promoted QPR. Neil Warnock’s men got their first three points thanks to a Tommy Smith strike.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Swansea 0-0 Wigan</span></p>
<p>Roberto Martinez was managing against his former club in the first Premier League match played in Wales. In front of a raucous crowd, Swansea went for it but could not muster up a goal. Luckily for them, neither could the opponent despite a penalty and a couple shots off the woodwork. 0-0 was a fair result for each side. </p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Aston Villa 3-1 Blackburn</span></p>
<p>Alex McCleish started three strikers in an attacking formation against Blackburn. That move paid off with all three men getting on the score sheet. Gabby Agbonlahor got the first on a beautiful curler, then Emile Heskey netted before Blackburn pulled one back through Morten Gamst Pedersen. Blackburn really are a boring team to watch aside from the young Junior Hoillet, who set up the Blackburn goal with an amazing run. But anyway, Darren Bent was the last of the trio to score and his second half goal sealed the points for Villa.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Chelsea 2-1 West Brom</span></p>
<p>Fernando Torres was again given the nod over Didier Drogba for Andre Villas-Boas’ Chelsea. The match started perfectly for West Brom when Shane Long took advantage of terrible play from Alex to give the away side a 1-0 lead inside of five minutes. Chelsea never got a hold of the game in the first half and West Brom probably should’ve been ahead by more at halftime. The Blues would come out swinging in the second half, most noticeably Nic Anelka. Florent Malouda came on as AVB switched up formations and Malouda made his new manager look like a genius with a winner in the 83’.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Wolves 2-0 Fulham</span></p>
<p>Mick McCarthey’s boys continued their impressive start with a win on Sunday. Kevin Doyle got the first with Matt Jarvis getting the second first half goal. It stayed that way for Wolves and a 2-0 win was exactly what they wanted on their home debut.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Norwich 1-1 Stoke</span></p>
<p>Norwich was playing its first home Premier League game in six years and it looked like it was going to turn out three points with Ritchie De Leat giving them the lead. It was deep into stoppage time before Stoke would grab an equalizer thanks to a Kenwyne Jones header. </p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Bolton 2-3 Manchester City</span></p>
<p>Manchester City, a club who has been pretty boring to watch the last couple years, has now started the season with two high scoring and fun to watch contests. David Silva got the first goal on a low shot that probably should’ve been saved. The second would come from a left footed blast by Gareth Barry but Bolton struck right back with a nicely worked goal finished off by Ivan Klasnic. The goals didn’t stop in the second half with Edin Dzeko scoring right after halftime to make it 3-1. The home team would again pull one back, this time through Kevin Davies, who was a menace all day. The score would finish at 3-2 and City starts the season 2 for 2.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Manchester United 3-0 Tottenham</span></p>
<p>Calling football a game of two halves is cliché but it was perfectly fitting for this match. Tottenham defended well in the first half and new keeper, Brad Friedel, looked very comfortable. Then the second half came and Man United turned it on. The first goal came via a cross by Tom Cleverley (starting again over Michael Carrick) which was headed home by Danny Welbeck (starting again over Dimitar Berbatov). Welbeck was the assist man on United’s second as his back heel pass set up Anderson. To top it all off Wayne Rooney got on the score sheet thanks to a perfect cross from sub, Ryan Giggs. Spurs looked out of sync, especially Rafa van der Vaart, but let’s not forget that it is their first game.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>This week’s team of the week award goes to Manchester United for their strong second half performance. Player of the week honors belong to Swansea goalkeeper Michel Vorm for his great performance in getting his club a point.</p>
Adam Johnson
2011-08-23T15:08:00Z
Wenger under investigation
Thomas Rooney
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Wenger-under-investigation/560717796571912717.html
2011-08-23T12:58:00Z
2011-08-23T12:58:00Z
<p><a href="http://www.arsenaltalk.co.uk/?p=1276">Arsenal </a>manager Arsene Wenger is under investigation by FIFA after reports suggested he broke a rule during his one-match Champions League touchline ban. <br /> <br /> The Frenchman, in the stands for the European qualifying first leg against Italian side Udinese following his outburst after last season’s exit at the hands of Barcelona, looked to have communicated with the Gunners bench during the game, which is breaching the terms of his suspension. <br /> <br /> Those placing <a href="http://www.bigfreebet.com/">free bets</a> note how Wenger, at present available for the second leg, was seen sending messages down to assistant coach Pat Rice via Boro Primorac, who was sat next to him in the stand. <br /> <br /> He is under investigation and could be heavily fined if the referee believes the Gunners boss has breached the terms of his ban. The reports are likely to be come out within the next 48 hours. <br /> <br /> To make matters worse, Wenger also failed to fulfill media commitments following the 1-0 victory, and is likely to be punished for that. <br /> <br /> Wenger looked a frustrated figure during the encounter which the visitors dominated following Walcott’s early strike. The pressure seems to be telling on Wenger after a dreadful week which included selling his captain and losing two players to suspension. <br /> <br /> Cesc Fabregas was sold to boyhood club and European champions, Barcelona, after a long-running transfer saga, while Emmanuel Eboue departed the Emirates Stadium in favour of a move to Turkey with Galatasary. <br /> <br /> New signing from Lille, Gervinho, was given a three-match ban after he was sent off on debut on Saturday. The Ivory Coast forward slapped Joey Barton during the goalless draw with Newcastle at St James Park and has been punished, meaning he will miss the crucial games against title rivals Liverpool and Manchester United as well as Premier League new boys Swansea City. <br /> <br /> Anyone wanting to place a <strong>free bet</strong> (http://www.bigfreebet.com/) on Arsenal should also note that Alex Song has also been given a three-game suspension after the FA investigated him stamping on Barton, and following the departure of Fabregas and injury to Jack Wilshere, Arsenal’s midfield is seriously depleted.</p>
<p> </p>
Thomas Rooney
2011-08-23T12:58:00Z
Villa attack throttles woeful Blackburn
John Meyerwitz
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Villa-attack-throttles-woeful-Blackburn/346562160120960946.html
2011-08-23T04:23:00Z
2011-08-23T04:23:00Z
Alex McLeish’s home debut could not have gone much better than a 3-1 victory over Blackburn that showed the Scot a willing accomplice to an attack mentality.<br /><br />Goals from Emile Heskey, Gabriel Agbonlahor, and Darren Bent helped Villa go top of the table, albeit for less than 24 hours.<br /><br />Playing only one half of the fixture, Agbonlahor, who also contributed an assist, showed he could still menace defenders from a wide position. His rocket into the top corner in the 12th minute may be the goal of the weekend. He may have had another in the 39th minute, but Paul Robinson’s bear hug of a tackle prevented him from turning his header into the net. <br /><br />Despite his usual poor first touch, Heskey continues to impress. His stumbling roller from an Agbonlahor pass just slipped past the outstretched arms of Paul Robinson. The Ponce de Leon of the Premiership, Heskey appears to have found the fountain of youth at age 33. How long this spark will last, however, may determine whether some of the youngsters see the pitch this season.<br /><br />Darren Bent was his usual predatory self, poaching a goal on a well-angled shot from a ball that should have been intercepted. He must be given credit for always being in position, and his striker’s composure in front of goal make him the top English forward.<br /><br />The Villa defense closed down space quickly for the second game in a row and Shay Given, despite giving up a goal, was not called on to be a hero this week.<br /><br />Positive feelings emanated from the slightly disappointing crowd of 32,319, many apparently dressed as empty seats at Villa Park on this opening home fixture, but a win at home against Blackburn should be expected even with this Villa squad. Next week’s home fixture against surprising Wolverhampton, who have claimed all six points from a similar schedule to Villa, may be a better indicator of how life in the Premiership will be without Ashley Young and Stewart Downing.<br /><br />Follow the author on Twitter @JohnMeyerwitz<br />
John Meyerwitz
2011-08-23T04:23:00Z
Brazil: U-20 World Champions, a Precursor to 2014?
Scotty Byington
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Brazil:-U-20-World-Champions,-a-Precursor-to-2014/986741261256248763.html
2011-08-22T16:46:00Z
2011-08-22T16:46:00Z
<p class="Body">There’s something about that yellow and blue glittering off a tournament’s crowning piece of silverware. Seems all too fitting, as if the trophy was made especially for a shower of Brazilian-colored celebration. Indeed Saturday night’s mini-carnival was no different after a 3-2 extra-time triumph over Portugal added a fifth FIFA U-20 World Cup success to the already sated list of Brazilian crowns. Add to it the dramatic manner in which Brazil won the tournament, an Oscar hat-trick, and the triumph of colony over colonizer, this was surely a night to remember.</p>
<p class="Body">Brazil lived up to their billing as a pre-tournament favorite. Throughout every stage of the competition, the Samba Boys danced their individual talents and showcased a winning mentality. The perfect blend of flair and pragmatism, with perhaps the only hiccup being a lucky ride against Spain in the quarterfinals.</p>
<p class="Body">Yet, that’s not to say the tournament showpiece was a cakewalk. Portugal proved themselves a worthy adversary and, had one or two chances fallen their way, could have won on the night. And for all of Brazil’s wonderful attacking displays, their lack of concentration in defense was worrisome.</p>
<p class="Body">Portugal entered the match having not conceded in the prior 574 minutes, but it took Brazil all of five minutes to breech the Iberian defense, albeit through an unfortunate fluke. A floated 40-yard free-kick from Oscar glanced off the head of Sergio Olieveria and left Mika, the Portuguese keeper, scrambling to no avail. The resulting goal left Mika a mere 19 minutes shy of eclipsing the tournament record of 634 minutes without conceding a goal. More importantly, for a Portuguese team that had relied so heavily on their defense capacity, the game might have been over and done with before it even started.</p>
<p class="Body">Yet this was a World Cup final, and the touted “New Golden Generation” for Portugal responded as such. Just four minutes after conceding, a superb through ball sent Nelson Oliveira racing to the touchline and a ball-watching Danilo allowed Alex to race unmarked into the box from the left channel. With Danilo caught out and reacting far too late, Alex had an easy tap-in once Nelson Oliveria picked him out.</p>
<p class="Body">Danilo quickly moved to make amends for his lackadaisical defending, thumping a low shot that Mika struggled to cover. It signaled a strong spell till the end of the half for the Brazilians as they dominated possession and tested the Portuguese defense on more than one occasion.</p>
<p class="Body">The second half kicked off with much of the same. Brazil brought on Allan and Negueba in place of Gabriel Silva and Willian and quickly the little canaries were threatening the Portuguese’s defensive resolve.</p>
<p class="Body">It was on the end of one of Brazil’s attacking forays that Portugal grabbed the lead just before the hour mark. Nelson Oliveira latched onto a huffed clearance from the Portuguese box, out ran two Brazilian defenders and struck a hard, right-sided shot into the far left post from a very tight angle. Cruzeiro’s Gabriel, the Brazilian No. 1, was extremely slow to get down, allowing the shot to slip beneath his right-side. Another Portuguese goal demonstrating a lack concentration from multiple facets of the Brazilian defense.</p>
<p class="Body">Brazil responded well, surging forward in attack and dominating possession. With the appearance of Ney Franco's super sub, Dudu, the script seemed to written long before the equalizing goal was scored. The diminutive attacker found himself isolated in the box, demonstrating great skill to turn his defender and rifle a shot in at goal. Mika could only punch the ball away and was unfortunate to see the rebound fall straight Oscar, who has all too happy to volley home his second of the night.</p>
<p class="Body">Portugal were twelve minutes short of World Cup glory and they never fully recovered from the disappointing concession. Despite taking the game to extra-time, the inevitability of Brazil’s winner was palpable, especially after Brazilian keeper Gabriel pulled off a smart one-on-one save when substitute Caetano attempted to chip him. Extra-time is as much about mental strength as physical capabilities, and ascendancy of Brazil’s play gave them the upper hand.</p>
<p class="Body">For all beautiful play in the 111 minutes prior, Oscar decided to save the best for last and to top a wonderful display with a hat-trick. If you haven’t already seen it, you MUST go watch the <a href="http://www.fifa.com/u20worldcup/highlights/video/video=1496362/index.html">highlights</a>. With a defender in his face, wide to the right of the box, Oscar caught the whole stadium off guard, not least of all Mika, when he decided to have a go at goal. The looping, dipping, swerving shot was expertly placed just under the bar, into the far, side-netting, a truly magnificent goal difficult to put into words. It was a perfect ending to a perfect night for Oscar, and in all fairness, it was the ultimate summation and reward for the Brazilians who have dazzled us over the entirety of the tournament.</p>
<p class="Body">As yet another crowning trophy was lifted by the joyous hands of the Brazilians, one must ask, what is in store for 2014? Most of the talent on display in the U-20s will be hopeful of pushing for a spot in the senior tournament in three years time. Obviously, it is difficult to predict given the nature of change in the football. Three years is a life-time on the pitch. Yet going strictly off of the displays from the tournament, the future is bright for Brazil.</p>
<p class="Body">The senior squad has lacked cohesion and attacking fluidity. The U-20s had it in abundance. Henrique is one to watch for the No. 9. He demonstrated both determination and skill to rise from the bench and claim the Golden Ball and Golden Boot awards. The Sao Paulo attackers club future may be in doubt but there should be few questioning his potential for 2014.</p>
<p class="Body">Critics of the Dunga-esque defensive mentality will be elated to see the current crop of attacking midfielders rising through the Brazilian ranks. From the hat-trick hero Oscar to the wonderful Dudu, Brazil’s midfield is filled with creative, attacking potential. Inter’s Philippe Coutinho is the obvious one to watch, while Kenny’s perennial favorite Alan Patrick might come good by 2014, though he spent most of the U-20s on the bench.</p>
<p class="Body">Ironically, the troublesome spot for the Brazilian youngsters is their defense. The lack of concentration on both of Portugal’s goals in the final was indicative of their displays through most of the tournament. Too often the defenders, particularly Danilo (sorry Kenny), were caught ball-watching or too slow in getting back for their defensive duties. It’s all well and good to contribute to the attack, but these defenders must work on their mental concentration and awareness if they are to progress into the senior squad. To their credit though, time is on their side and we will undoubtedly see these young men mature.</p>
<p class="Body">All in all, and somewhat inevitably, it seems the future bodes well for Brazil come 2014, though success at the youth levels does not specifically translate to senior winnings. Keep in mind South American teams (Argentina and Brazil) have seized eight of the last ten U-20 trophies. That said, Mano Menezes has a bundle load of talent to consider, and should he skillfully integrate these youngsters with the current squad, 2014 might just see another picturesque Brazil-colored celebration.</p>
Scotty Byington
2011-08-22T16:46:00Z
The Beautiful Game At Its Best
A.J. Nelson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/The-Beautiful-Game-At-Its-Best/60475495004036639.html
2011-08-21T23:08:00Z
2011-08-21T23:08:00Z
<p>It has taken me several days to process the latest round of El Clásico. Perhaps I am too invested. Perhaps I am still depressed that Real Madrid did not win. And although my last article was entitled “The Gloves Are Off, But No Decision Yet”, an actual fight in Wednesday’s Barcelona/Real Madrid match was not expected or wanted. At least not one that involved blows, because there was a more important fight that lasted 90 minutes, one between two highly talented teams who play amazing football, dance around the ball and create magic. </p>
<p>In that fight, it took only 30 seconds for Xabi Alonso to strip the ball, spin around and set up an on target shot by Cristiano Ronaldo. Pace, desire and intensity by Madrid kept the pressure on Barcelona, but in a flash, David Villa and Lionel Messi were threatening. Initial attempts by both sides were thwarted thanks to incredible saves by Iker Casillas and Victor Valdes as well as hard work from their spectacular defensive front men, Pepe and Mascherano, a trend that would continue the entire match.</p>
<p>Every few moments, a spark would ignite one side or the other causing gasps, cheers and jeers from the crowd at the Camp Nou. Messi didn’t even look up to pass to Andres Iniesta, and like Messi’s goal in the first game, Casillas would be faced with a one-on-one challenge and could only watch as Iniesta’s ball slid easily in to the back of the net. Madrid kept their composure, however, and were rewarded when a strong shot from Karim Benzema would pinball off several players (with a final touch by Ronaldo) to land in the back of the net.</p>
<p>The superstars weren’t the only ones who shined. Nearly every player would have moments of brilliance. Pedro’s fancy footwork to split Pepe and Fábio Coenträo required all of Saint Iker’s skill to keep Pedro from scoring. Ángel Di María, Mesut Özil and Sami Khedira worked tirelessly and made gorgeous passes and steals in the process. A bad pass by Gerard Pique and Benzema was nearly free. Ronaldo had a rocket of a shot and Valdes needed an assist from the cross bar to keep it out of goal. I was dizzy trying to count the potential chances – and this was all within the first 25 minutes! It would be Messi’s dance around multiple defenders that led to Barcelona’s second goal just before the half. </p>
<p>It is hard to fathom that this game was being held before the La Liga season starts and not a late stage Champions League match. As the game progressed, changes were made, but the grandeur of this game continued to be spellbinding to watch. Ironically, it would be one of the uglier plays that would tie the game. I was reminded of the old saying “if at first you don’t succeed…” A questionable corner led to confusion in front of the goal. Benzema would get a clear chance that failed but he nailed the off balance second opportunity and it would be 2-2 with under 10 minutes to go.</p>
<p>As if a late in the game tie in was not enough drama, the saga would continue – Barcelona would bring on Cesc Fabregas. After all the questions surrounding his transfer, here he was debuting for his new club with under 10 minutes remaining. Pep Guardiola knew what he was doing. A stunning set of passes would make Fabregas’ start a memorable one - Fabregas to Messi to Adriano to Messi - GOAL. Even as a Madrid fan who felt pain and tears at that moment, I had to appreciate the brilliance that would be the final goal of the match. </p>
<p>Incredible tackles, smart fouls, speedy runs, precision passing, powerful shots, touch steals, finger tip saves, two of the best coaches and the best players in the world - this game had it all. Watching the English Premier League this weekend, I was struck that teams with brilliantly talented players seemed sluggish and had to remind myself that there is a reason Real Madrid/Barcelona is called El Clásico. The talent, skill, desire and intensity is worth every moment and each game is a classic. Last season we were lucky enough to get extra games between these two power houses. One can only hope to get them again.<br /><br /><em>A.J. Nelson can be found on Twitter @FootieObsessed</em></p>
A.J. Nelson
2011-08-21T23:08:00Z
Who Is Juan Mata?
Lamin Oo
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Who-Is-Juan-Mata/-748348766964157078.html
2011-08-21T21:20:00Z
2011-08-21T21:20:00Z
<p>It has been officially reported that <a href="http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/14600979.stm">Valencia have reached an agreement in principle to sell Juan Mata to Chelsea</a>. Reports suggest that Mata will be joining Chelsea for a fee of £23.5m after going through a medical. This is Andre Villas-Boas' first big signing that will impact the current Chelsea team immediately (i.e. Mata is a finished product, unlike the young players that Chelsea have signed thus far).</p>
<p>Mata has been described by many football pundits as a quick, skillful and creative player and will be an exciting addition to the Chelsea squad which is <a href="http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11661_7100706,00.html">lacking numbers in the midfield</a>. With this imminent signing in mind, I decided to do some research on Juan Mata and here is what I have to report.</p>
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<p><strong><em>Coming Of Age</em></strong></p>
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<p>Mata began his youth career with Real Oviedo – the former club of his father, Juan Mata Senior, who was also a footballer and now acts as his agent. Young Mata eventually joined Real Madrid’s cantera, or youth system, at the age of 15. After an impressive three years as a youth player, he was promoted to the Real Madrid Castilla, the reserve team of Real Madrid, in 2006-2007.</p>
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<p>“For a kid that just played for Oviedo, to then going to play for a team like Real Madrid it felt fantastic. But being taken out of my family home and moving away alone, into the residence Madrid have for young players, it was a bit difficult but as time passed I got used to it.” (<a href="http://fourfourtwo.com/interviews/webexclusives/299/article.aspx">Source</a>)</p>
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<p><img style="float: left; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Mata Fact File.jpg" alt="" />Despite having an impressive first season with Castilla, the team was relegated from Segunda Division and Mata was let go. Mata, however, did not dwell on the disappointment of being released. Instead, he signed for Valencia in 2007-2008 and set out to prove that he was a quality footballer, capable of playing at the highest level.</p>
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<p>“It didn’t hurt leaving Madrid – it’s normal. There are a lot of people in Real Madrid squad, and in most great teams, but they can’t all make it…. At 19 when I left I wanted to demonstrate the ability I had and fulfill the hopes that Valencia had in me when they signed me,” he reflects.</p>
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<p>In his first season at Valencia, Mata benefited from injuries to first team players like Vincente Rodriguez and was able to curve out a place for himself in the Valencia starting lineup.<br /><strong><em><br />On The Big Stage</em></strong></p>
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<p class="separator">“What’s marked about him,” Spanish football expert Graham Hunter says of Juan Mata in <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2pGfaBT7z-Q">a radio interview</a>, “is that he’s a big game player and loves the challenge, the test. [He is] not somebody who will shrink away from playing in big matches every three days.”</p>
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<p>There is no better evidence of his ability to thrive in big games than his performances in 2007-2008 Copa del Rey, a competition which Valencia won that season. Mata scored twice against Barcelona in the semi-final of the competition and also netted the opener in a 3-1 win against Getafe in the final.</p>
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<p><img style="float: right; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Mata Assists.jpg" alt="" />Since then, Mata has established himself as an integral player for Valencia playing dominantly on the left wing. However, that’s not the only position he can play. Graham Hunter has this to say about Mata’s versatility:</p>
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<p>“Until now, he has enjoyed playing across the front line for Real Madrid B team, for Valencia and for Spain. He’s a very adaptable footballer who can be pegged wider on the left. He can play as a sole striker if you are not looking for any aerial ability. And he has done so. Watching him and when you listen to him, I think he enjoys using that right foot and his ability to dribble past players playing off of the main striker.” </p>
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<p><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Juan Mata Stats.jpg" alt="" /><br /><br />His goal scoring record is not stellar but he undoubtedly has the ability to score 18 to 20 goals a season. Also, he has an incredible eye for a pass and he can whip in dangerous crosses with both his left and right foot. His ability to create goal scoring opportunities for his teammates is very apparent in the number of assists he has made over the years. There are only three players in La Liga who have more assists than Mata over the past three seasons: Xavi, Lionel Messi and Daniel Alves.</p>
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<p>Fragility often accompanies flair (see under: Robben, Arjen). But Mata seems to be an exception, starting at least 30 league games every season for Valencia in the past three seasons. It is true that La Liga is not known for the physical side of the game but it is still very impressive that Mata has started an average of 39 games in all competitions for Valencia from 2008-2011. </p>
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<p>In international stage, Mata has not played a major role in the Spanish senior team, which by no means is a smudge on his international career, considering that even the likes of Cesc Fabregas finds it hard to get regular starts in the senior team. However, Mata was a key player in both Spain’s UEFA U-19 and UEFA European Under-21 champion sides. He was the awarded as the Top Assisting Player and named in the Team of the Tournament in the European Under-21 competition for his excellent contributions.</p>
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<p><strong><em>What Can Mata Do For Chelsea?</em></strong></p>
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<p>Having read thus far, you may already have figured out where Mata will fit in the Chelsea team and how he might fair playing for The Blues. He will most likely compete with Florent Malouda for the spot on the left side of the three forwards in Andre Villas-Boas’ 4-3-3. As I recall from last season, Malouda started the season in brilliant form but lacked the consistency to carry it through the whole season. As Chelsea embark on another season fighting for trophies in all fronts, it will be crucial to have both Mata and Malouda (the M&M if you like) as your options on the left. He will offer a bit more flair and creativity to the game. </p>
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<p>Additionally, Mata, as mentioned above, is very versatile. He can also play as a right winger in a 4-3-3 or as the second striker in 4-4-2 or as the attacking midfielder at the tip of the 4-4-2 diamond. This versatility will come in handy if and when Chelsea faces a number of injuries in the midfield. Mata will simply move around the fill in the gap.</p>
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<p><img style="float: left; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Mata Table Tennis.jpg" alt="" />There is no denying that for Chelsea to have a successful season, Fernando Torres has to be scoring goals left and right. Mata’s ability to create goal scoring opportunities of the teammates and provide assists will significantly improve Torres’ chances of scoring. During his time with Valencia, Mata was praised for linking up well with the likes of David Villa. While Villa and Torres are not the same player, it is a possibility that Mata and Torres can form a good partnership in Chelsea’s attack. Speaking the same language, of course, always helps.</p>
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<p>Finally, Mata will provide another option for Chelsea in set-pieces. He is very reliable on corners and free-kicks. He can also take a penalty which will be key when it comes to the Champions League knock out stages.</p>
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<p>One Obvious worry is his stature. He is only 5 feet, 7 inches tall and is a lightweight. He can be shrugged off the ball easily by bigger and more physical players. In that department, he may have to learn something from his former Valencia teammate David Silva who has successfully adapted to the physicality of the Premier League despite his light frame. Another worry for Chelsea fans is Mata's defensive commitments. He is a total attacking player, which mean he can sometimes be defensively irresponsible.</p>
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<p>All in all, Mata will be a great asset to Chelsea's attack. He will offer creativity that Chelsea lacked last season and will help undress some of the stubborn defense that Chelsea will face during this long season. Additionally, he is still a young player at 23 and Chelsea can reap the reward of the signing for years to come. And for all the English sports writers worldwide, he will offer plenty puns on Mata/Matter wordplay, as in "he can score goals Juan it Mata(s)." Oh dear... </p>
<p><em><span>Carefree, wherever you may be...</span></em></p>
<p><span>You can follow me on twitter<span> </span></span><a href="http://www.twitter.com/carefreechronic"><span>@CareFreeChronic</span></a><span>.</span></p>
<span>You can my other posts on <a href="http://www.carefreechronicles.blogspot.com/">my blog</a> or at <a href="http://bluetinted.com/">BlueTinted.com</a>.</span>
Lamin Oo
2011-08-21T21:20:00Z
Muslera debut dented by goal but Gala hopes are still high
Aydin Reyhan
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Muslera-debut-dented-by-goal-but-Gala-hopes-are--still-high/53232067503045001.html
2011-08-20T02:53:00Z
2011-08-20T02:53:00Z
<p>Uruguayan debuts for Gala in unlucky loss</p>
<p>Uruguay big man who covers goal for his beloved nation, Fernando Muslera, debuted for his new club Galatasaray SK but unfortunately ended up on the wrong side of a 1-0 score line.</p>
<p>The Turkish side visited neighbors Greece to take on a top club in Olympiakos. It only took the hosts roughly 30 seconds to score as Kevin Mirallas latched onto a through ball and slotted home from close range. There wasn’t much Muslera could do in that situation.</p>
<p>However the Uruguayan hero came up big when the Greek side had a chance from 7 yards out as he bravely blocked the shot by deflecting it out for a corner. Here he made his first save which showed how fearless he is in front of goal.</p>
<p>Galatasaray would score in the second half as Gokhan Zan headed in a Selcuk Inan free kick. However, the match official disallowed the goal as Zan was in a slightly offside position.</p>
<p>The match finished in a loss for Gala but keeper Muslera finally eased the worries of fans of the Turkish giants.</p>
<p>In recent years, Galatasaray has had four different starting keepers and each one made several errors that cost the side many games. They required a keeper who knew how to take a team on his shoulders and defend the two posts behind him. He did it for Uruguay, and he also did it for Gala by only allowing one goal off of many shots.</p>
<p>The team made many changes this year signing a new starting left back in Tomas Ujfalusi and a starting holding midfielder in Selcuk Inan. Johan Elmander also joined the Gala attack from the Premier League’s Bolton Wanderers. Adding Muslera in goal simply put the icing on the cake for the Lion Kings.</p>
<p>The only loss that has hurt them thus far is the sale of captain Arda Turan. As mentioned last week, he was the heart and soul of the team. Now, the number ten is vacant and the team is still debating on whether or not to sign a replacement straight away.</p>
<p>Regardless of that hole, Galatasaray will still be able to field a very strong squad and by not playing in Europe this season, they will have more energy and time to spend preparing for the regular Turkish Super League season and the Turkish Cup. After finishing in 9<sup>th</sup> place last season, they have to prove to Turkey and the rest of the world that they are still capable of winning the Turkish championship.</p>
<p>Besides the new signings, Gala has appointed “the emperor” coach Fatih Terim who recently led the national team to the semi-finals of EURO 2008. He instills a “never quit” attitude into all of his players and this forces them to willingly play hard until the final whistle. This is exactly what this demoralized squad needed after a very disappointing campaign a year ago.</p>
<p>Will the squad be able to perform they way they are expected to? We will have to wait and find out when the season beings and progresses throughout the year. A good year is expected, let’s see if the Turkish giants can provide a memorable season for themselves as well as their millions of fans around the world.</p>
<p> </p>
Aydin Reyhan
2011-08-20T02:53:00Z
Barca and Real renew hostilities
Will
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Barca-and-Real-renew-hostilities/562787310280747350.html
2011-08-19T20:40:00Z
2011-08-19T20:40:00Z
<p class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">Was anyone really surprised at what we were served up in Wednesday's Barcelona v Real Madrid Super Cup second leg?</p>
<p class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">It gave us the dazzling pieces of magic from the likes of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo that makes us gasp for breath.</p>
<p class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">We also had the passion and commitment, befitting of two sides who regularly compete directly against each other for the top honours in Spanish and European football. If you <strong><a href="http://www.bet365.com/news/en/betting/">bet on La Liga</a> </strong>you rarely drift away from these two.</p>
<p class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">Sadly, all too often those passions spilled over into a series of niggly tackles, over-dramatic dives and eventually simmered towards a 22-man brawl with coaches and managers thrown in for good measure.</p>
<p class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">We were treated to all of this as Barca eventually overcame their great rivals 3-2 to take the early season curtain-raiser. A double from the irrepressible Messi the bedrock of their success - the <a href="http://www.bet365.com/news/en/betting/"><strong>La Liga odds</strong></a> suggest this won't be the last trophy they lift this season.</p>
<p class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">However, a crude, late challenge by Marcelo on Cesc Fabregas in the final minutes sparked off yet another bout of fisticuffs between both sets of players and benches.</p>
<p class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">Marcelo was rightly sent off, Ozil and Villa followed for their part in the melee, while Jose Mourinho caused controversy yet again by appearing to flick Barcelona coach Tito Vilanova in the face.</p>
<p class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">It was a childish and petulant act by Mourinho and one that may land him in trouble. However, the comments from some Barca players afterwards, saying that he is 'destroying' football, is a little bit hypocritical.</p>
<p class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">Barcelona, however good their football is, are no angels. They spend just as much time trying to get their opponents booked as Real do. The endless amount of diving and imaginary card waving is just as destructive to the game and infuriating to watch.</p>
<p class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">Just because Barca can produce moments of magic doesn’t mean they can judge others without ensuring their own house is in order.</p>
<p class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">That isn't excusing Mourinho, but I feel both clubs need to remember their responsibilities when they take to the field.</p>
<p class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">Passion, yes; skill; of course, but also respect and honesty to their opponents, referees and fans.</p>
Will
2011-08-19T20:40:00Z
Die Bundesliga: 2. Spieltag/European action recaps & 3. Spieltag Preview
Victor Ellis
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Die-Bundesliga:-2.-Spieltag/European-action-recaps--3.-Spieltag-Preview/-967498065131691801.html
2011-08-19T20:19:00Z
2011-08-19T20:19:00Z
<p class="BodySingle"><strong>2. Spieltag/European Recap/3. Spieltag Preview </strong></p>
<p class="BodySingle"><strong>FC Schalke 04 - 1. FC Köln 5:1 (1:1)</strong></p>
<p class="BodySingle">After calling all three out by name in last week’s KickAbout, avid readers Klaas-Jan Huntelaar, Raul and Lewis Holtby responded with a clear riposte to your humble correspondent, ripping 4 goals in 17 minutes past Michael Rensing and the hapless group of <span style="text-decoration: line-through;">defenders</span> stiffs in front of him. Curiously this barrage occurred after the match itself started 10 minutes late(resulting from a stuck Schalke team bus when Köln manager Ståle Solbakken tried to park it in front of Rensing’s net) and a shock 0:1 lead in the 12th minute from pouting poser Lukas Podolski. Confused but undeterred by these tactics, Schalke eventually equalized right before halftime with an early Maria Himmelfahrt gift of a PK from <span style="text-decoration: line-through;">Father Guido Sarducci</span> Schiedsrichter Guido Winkelmann. Two goals and 180 seconds after the 2nd half whistle and Köln was done, with only some fancy entertainment from Raul and Huntelaar’s hat trick to liven up the final 40 minutes of play.</p>
<p class="BodySingle"><strong>HJK Helsinki - FC Schalke 04(Europa League Qualification) 2:0 (1:0)</strong> After its solid Solbakken shellacking, Schalke traveled Thursday to Helsinki to try and dominate some more <span style="text-decoration: line-through;">Norwegians</span> Finns (aren’t all Scandinavians the same?). They made the trip without Raul, who was variously rumoured to be off to Blackburn (really?), PSG (slightly more plausible) or just home trying out some new tapas recipes. Looking lethargic, uninspired and without Raul and his home cooking, Schalke found itself instead swallowing a Pukki-Pukki platter in a 2:0 defeat that really wasn’t even that close. They’ll have two days to regroup before facing a hot Mainz team in its new stadium.</p>
<p class="BodySingle">This week: 1. FSV Mainz 05 - FC Schalke 04 (Sun); 1. FC Köln - 1. FC Kaiserslautern</p>
<p class="BodySingle">The Köln Kärnival Klöwns return home Saturday to host (almost) equally krappy Kaiserslautern. With both clubs now 0-2 after being outscored by a combined 11-2 in the first two weekends, expect fireworks as they battle to avoid the early season Keller Krown. Expect Köln, without the services of both Rensing (knee) and Podolski (Turkish fever) to grab the Rote Lanterne with all hands.</p>
<p class="BodySingle"><strong>Hamburger SV – Hertha BSC Berlin</strong><strong> 2:2 (1:1)</strong></p>
<p class="BodySingle">Hamburg’s youngsters (avg. age 23.55) looked for solace at home after being flattened by the Prussian steamroller in the Westfalenstadion. Meanwhile Hertha, with a solid defense led by Bayern-castoffs Kraft, Lell and Ottl (the latter two München natives and all 3 products of the Bayern-Jugend) hoped to generate some offense against the struggling HSV Abwehr. The Berliners created several chances, only to be denied by the woodwork on 3 separate occasions. Two HSV goals against the run of play (including a fairly-given Foulelfmeter by Petric), however, put the visitors on their back boot and staring at a second straight defeat in the closing minutes. But in the 88th minute a well-timed header from Mijatovic defeated HSV coach Michael Oenning’s tactical substitutions of Jansen and Jarolim and earned Hertha a deserved point.</p>
<p class="BodySingle">Next: Bayern München - Hamburger SV; Hannover 96 - Hertha BSC (Sun)</p>
<p class="BodySingle">It only gets worse for Oenning’s players, who’ll face a struggling, but slowly (very slowly) improving Bayern in the Allianz Arena. Without several key players HSV can only hope a Bayern tired from their midweek clash with Zürich and without Mario Gomez may be vulnerable to a lucky counterattack.</p>
<p class="BodySingle">It doesn’t get any better for Hertha, either. The jelly-filled doughnuts travel to Hannover to battle the in-form 96ers, fresh from a 2:1 defeat of Sevilla in the Europa League. Hertha will also hope for a post-victory letdown and more generous aluminum to earn at least a point against the Hannoveraner.</p>
<p class="BodySingle"><strong>1. FC Nürnberg - Hannover 96 1:2 (0:2)</strong></p>
<p class="BodySingle">Hot Hannover kept rolling along this week, starting with 2 goals in the first 27 minutes and then holding on for a deserved away 3 points at the <span style="text-decoration: line-through;">Frankenstadion</span> easy-credit Stadion®. The Club made a match of it with a strong 2nd-half offensive, but found their attacks denied by a solid 96 back four and Hannover’s excellent young keeper Ron-Robert Zieler (recently called up to the Nationalelf). Injuries to Club stalwarts keeper Raphael Schäfer and Javier Pinola will only add to coach Dieter Hecking’s misery going forward.</p>
<p class="BodySingle"><strong>Hannover 96 - FC Sevilla (Europa League Qualification) 2:1 (2:1)</strong> Hannover’s excellent run of form continued Thursday night, again with a well-deserved win over a strong Sevilla side in the 96er’s first European match in two decades. Despite a relatively uncharacteristic Steve Cherundolo mistake that led to Sevilla’s equalizer, Hannover rode an otherwise strong defensive performance and two well-timed goals from Jan Schlaudraff to the victory. Hannover looks to retain the upper hand in Sevilla next week in the return leg.</p>
<p class="BodySingle">Next up: Borussia Dortmund - 1. FC Nürnberg; Hannover 96 - Hertha BSC (Sun)</p>
<p class="BodySingle">Injury-plauged Nürnberg head to the Westfalenstadion to face the Wrath of Klopp and a Dortmund side one expects to be well-motivated after their loss to FC Hopp. 96 meanwhile will attempt to keep their strong run going in a battle of opposite ends of the Tabelle, as Hertha coach Markus Babbel tries to build on their relatively-encouraging performance against an (admittedly-struggling) Hamburg side.</p>
<p class="BodySingle"><strong>SC Freiburg – FSV Mainz 05 1:2</strong><strong> (0:0)</strong></p>
<p class="BodySingle">Mainz continued to recover from their difficult DFB-Pokal start (2:1 away extra-time win over 5th division SVN Zweibrücken) and surprising Europa League ouster at the hands of Romanian powerhouse Gaz Metan Medias (3:4 in a shootout) to remain atop the Tabelle with a hard-fought win in Freiburg. Both teams gave the assembled Black Forest faithful little to cheer about in a first-half snoozefest, but then woke up to supply a super second-half chock full of chances. Mainz made the better of theirs, taking a 2:0 lead within a 15-minute span before holding on and giving up the now-obligatory Cissé goal (shock!) in the final minute for the Sieg.</p>
<p class="BodySingle">This week: Werder Bremen - SC Freiburg; 1. FSV Mainz 05 - FC Schalke 04 (Sun)</p>
<p class="BodySingle">Freiburg make the long trek north to the Weserstadion still in search of their first win, which may be possible against a weak Bremen side that struggled to create chances against Leverkusen. Mainz, with an extra day of rest thanks to Schalke’s Scandavian sojourn, gets to head home to their sparkling new Coface-Arena before taking on the Königsblauen.</p>
<p class="BodySingle"><strong>TSG 1899 Hoffenheim – Borussia Dortmund</strong><strong> 1:0 (1:0)</strong></p>
<p class="BodySingle">And here it is, the Shocker der Woche! Or maybe not? Hoppenheim has made itself into quite a nuisance for BVB since arriving in the 1. Bundesliga in 2008, enjoying a 4-3-1 advantage over the 7-time Deutscher Meister. The Kraichgauer showed little respect for the reigning champions, taking the upper hand in the midfield from the opening whistle. New coach Holger Stanislawski’s tactics paid off early, courtesy of a 33-meter hammer free kick from Salihovic into the top left corner. Blessed with the early lead, the Hoppers held out with a compact defensive alignment, some superlative saves from Tom Starke and technical assistance from a “rogue employee” who neutralized the Dortmund fans with a bizarre audio attack scheme. Borussen Field Marshall Jürgen Klopp (semi-legitimately) blamed his squad’s sluggish play on the midweek international games, with Götzinho and Hummels having played 88 minutes against Brazil, and Kagawa returning from the Land of the Rising Sun where he scored 2 of Japan’s 3 goals in their victory over South Korea.</p>
<p class="BodySingle">Next up: FC Augsburg - 1899 Hoffenheim; Borussia Dortmund - 1. FC Nürnberg</p>
<p class="BodySingle">Hoffenheim hope to capitalize on their big win against the promotees in Augsburg, whose confidence is increasing after earning two hard fought draws in their first two games. Dortmund look to have an easier time back within the Westfalenstadion’s friendly confines, against Der Club struggling with new injury problems on top of losing several key players in the off-season.</p>
<p class="BodySingle"><strong>VfL Wolfsburg – FC Bayern 0:1 (0:0)</strong></p>
<p class="BodySingle">Klopp’s komplaints fell on deaf ears in Wolfsburg, where Bayern managed to eke out a lucky victory against Saddam’s minions despite 7 DFB starters, 5 of whom played the full 90 against Brazil. Magath, however, had good grounds to gripe about no video replay after Helmes’ perfectly good goal was disallowed by Knut Kircher. Neither team looked particularly proficient, especially on offense, and a draw was probably a fair result. Late substitute and dauerläufer Ivica Olic had other ideas, though, and his 91st minute sprint down the left side combined with an excellent pass from Ribery to the oncoming Luis Gustavo resulted in a well-delivered 16-meter drive that split 2 defenders and richocheted of Benaglio’s hand into the left corner. Game over, with the Münchener the not altogether deserved victors.</p>
<p class="BodySingle"><strong>FC Bayern - FC Zürich (CL-Qualification) 2:0 (1:0)</strong> Still not superlative, but much more deserved, was Bayern’s victory over their Swiss guests in the Allianz Arena on Wednesday. With Robben back in the starting lineup to complement Ribery for the first time since May 7, Bayern immediately put the visitors under pressure with an 8th minute header from Schweinsteiger off a Robben cross for the 1:0 lead. The Münchener showed more creativity and variability in their offense, with “Robbery” switching from left to right and back again often to complicate Zürich’s defensive marking. Unfortunately despite creating more chances, the finishing, especially from last year’s Bundesliga Torkönig Gomez, left much to be desired. Missed chance after missed chance resulted in no lack of “Meine Güte Junge!” cries of dismay from B5 aktuell (Bayern’s home radio station) announcers Hans-Peter Pull and Edgar Andres. A good result, and with Zürich offering little in the way of offensive capability, Bayern looks a good bet to make the Champions League group stage to continue their dream of making the Final in München next May.</p>
<p class="BodySingle">Up next: Bayern - HSV (Saturday); Gladbach - Wolfsburg (Friday)</p>
<p class="BodySingle"><strong>Borussia Mönchengladbach - VfB Stuttgart 1:1 (0:0)</strong></p>
<p class="BodySingle">In a matchup of two clubs doing well to erase the bad memories of last season’s near-relegation, the Schwaben traveled to Borussia Park with confidence after their 3:0 beatdown of Schalke in Week 1. Equally confident the Borussen, having defeated old nemesis Bayern in München, led to plenty of action. 19-year old keeper Marc-André ter Stegen picked up right where he left off in the Allianz Arena, making save after spectacular save to deny VfB the lead. For the Schwaben, also continuing his strong start in the double-pivot alongside Kuzmanovic was new boy “Billy” Kvist, referee Gräfe’s decision to award a PK to Gladbach after Kvist’s questionable contact with Marco Reus notwithstanding. Indeed it was Kvist’s cross that Christian Gentner headed back across the goal for a classic, perfectly time run and goal by Cacau for the equalizer. Fair result for both squads.</p>
<p class="BodySingle">This week: Gladbach - Wolfsburg (Friday); VfB Stuttgart - Bayer Leverkusen</p>
<p class="BodySingle">The Borussen will enjoy another home game against “Die Wölfe”, who are understandably chapped at their unlucky loss to Bayern and ready for revenge. Gladbach’s defense (without the suspended Brouwers) and the stellar early-season showing from ter Stegen stand in Wolfsburg’s way, however, die Fohlen will need to generate more chances and execute better in front of goal to come up with their second win of the season. VfB will return to their new home with the hope that their makeshift central defense (Tasci, Delpierre, Niedermeyer & Bikacic all injured to varying degrees) will continue to hold against a Werkself still struggling for offensive firepower. </p>
<p class="BodySingle"><strong>1. FC Kaiserslautern – FC Augsburg 1:1 (0:1)</strong></p>
<p class="BodySingle">Another week, another goal for Sascha Mölders, now with 3 in his first two Bundesliga matches. Mölders’ excellent run and shot led to a 9th minute 0:1 lead for the visiting Schwaben, who held on for another deserved point, thanks in no small part to some fantastic goalkeeping from Simon Jenztsch. A back and forth and entertaining Schußfest am Betzenberg between two clubs that fought hard and may ultimately rue dropped points as they face tougher opposition deeper into the season.</p>
<p class="BodySingle">Saturday: 1. FC Köln - 1. FC Kaiserslautern; FC Augsburg - 1899 Hoffenheim</p>
<p class="BodySingle"><strong>Bayer Leverkusen - Werder Bremen 1:0 (0:0)</strong></p>
<p class="BodySingle">Big Pharma makes a Big Comeback: what a difference a week makes. After both clubs were unceremoniously dumped from the DFB-Pokal by lower level opposition, last week Werder looked relatively Dortmundesque in their dismissal of K’town, while Bayer lost another keeper and their opening match to Mainz. No such problems this week for the Pharmaceuticals, as new 19 year-old keeper “Jay” Leno had little to do against a Bremen side happy to park 10 men behind the ball and that struggled to create even a couple of goal chances. Still, the Werkself left it late, with only a billiard shot goal from Kadlec off the inside of the post in the 85th minute to secure the W. Note to Thomas Schaaf: if you want to break your streak of 8 games against Leverkusen without a victory, perhaps the Charlie Brown uniforms aren’t the best good luck charm…</p>
<p class="BodySingle">This Saturday: Werder Bremen - SC Freiburg; VfB Stuttgart - Bayer Leverkusen</p>
<p class="BodySingle"><strong> </strong>Bis zum nächsten mal……</p>
<p class="BodySingle">Auf geht’s ins Stadion!</p>
Victor Ellis
2011-08-19T20:19:00Z
Let's just change the name of the stadium to the Falcaoderón
Joseph Zucker
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Lets-just-change-the-name-of-the-stadium-to-the-Falcaoderón/-683935287708709500.html
2011-08-19T14:45:00Z
2011-08-19T14:45:00Z
There’s many different ways for a guy to go about rebounding from a bad break up. You can feel upset, hurt, try whatever you can to get your ex back. Or, you can immediately find the urge to “accidentally” run into your ex-girlfriend with a beautiful woman draped on your arm, and maybe while you happen to be driving a brand new Ferrari. Atletico Madrid has gone the latter route after taking essentially every penny from the sale of Sergio Aguero to purchase Porto striker Radamel Falcao.<br /><br />The transfer was officially announced during half-time of Thursday’s Europa League qualifying match against Vitória de Guimarães, which Atletico won 2-0. Atleti supporters have been clamoring for a replacement for Aguero since his departure in late July. It seemed likely that Espanyol striker Pablo Osvaldo would be the one to fill those boots. Falcao was an outside possibility, but there were questions as to whether Atletico would make an offer close to the Colombian’s €45 million release clause or he would leave Primeira Liga champions Porto and Champions League football for Atletico Madrid and the promise of playing in the Europa League. With Osvaldo rumored to be off to Roma, supporters were beginning to get a little antsy. Fortunately, they must worry no more. It is difficult to find a more prolific striker in the world over the past two seasons than Falcao. In 2009/10, he scored 30 goals in 38 matches, and in 10/11, he found the net 33 times in 36 matches. His 17 goals in the Europa League last season eclipsed the record for most goals in the competition, previously set by Jürgen Klinsmann. Along with Falcao comes Rubén Micael in a separate €5 million deal with Porto. Although, his transfer is certainly not what has gotten the headlines, quite understandably.<br /><br />The Falcao transfer is good news for Atleti supporters for two reasons. One, it shows Miguel Ángel Gil Marín and Enrique Cerezo can at least put their money where their mouth is. They had stated they would reinvest the money earned from the David de Gea and Aguero transfers back into the club. In that respect, they certainly have not disappointed. Of course, this is the same management that puts the Hicks/Gillett reign in Liverpool to shame. It would be hard to find a more poorly run club than Atletico Madrid. But that is a different topic for a different day. At least temporarily, supporters can enjoy the third most expensive Colombian export, behind cocaine and coffee. It is especially satisfying after watching Mike Ashley fail to spend almost anything from the £35 million Andy Carroll transfer, or Arsene Wenger still refusing to open up the Arsenal checkbook.<br /><br />Two, it shows that Atletico can be a destination for top-class footballers. It is not in the club’s DNA to go out and buy the best players in the world. The signing of Falcao is certainly not going to change that fact. With the debt the club has, it can’t afford to drop lavish transfer fees for great players. But it is at least refreshing to hear a player with the quality of Falcao say how much he is looking forward to putting on the red and white shirt. Certainly, he could be looking more forward to a rise in wages, but it shows some commitment from him to turn down Champions League football with Porto. It is almost impossible to break into the La Liga duopoly of Barcelona and Real Madrid, but that is no reason for Atletico to sit back and just throw in the towel. Especially with the way Málaga has spent millions and Marcelo Bielsa taking the reins at Athletic Bilbao. Valencia, Sevilla and Villarreal are sure to be tough competition as well. If the club can bring in a player like Falcao, it can be an indicator for other good players that Atletico is a club that can compete at the highest levels, regardless of its ownership situation or serious lack of contention for the league title. Falcao follows Arda Turan as the second big-time arrival at the Vicente Calderón. (For a much more in-depth background on the Turkish midfielder, read Aydin Reyhan’s Kick About article: http://www.worldfootballdaily.com/b/Arda-Turan..Turkish-Wonderkid-finally-leaves-nest/-40716798478017906.html) <br /><br />With this news, it brings possibly even more questions about Diego Forlán and his on-again, off-again, on-again, off-again transfer. He’s been linked to at least about six dozen different clubs in his time at Atletico Madrid. Last year, he couldn’t get on with manager Quique Sánchez Flores. Flores is out and Gregorio Manzano is in. Unfortunately, it appears that Samuel Eto’o is moving out of Inter Milan, and Forlán has stated his desire to move, telling an Italian paper that it would be a dream to play for Inter. It all depends on whether Eto’o does complete the move to Russian club Anzhi Makhachkala. Of course, it seemed that Forlán was destined to complete a move to Tottenham before that move fell through. In the event the Uruguayan striker does leave, it would put Atletico in a difficult spot. Even with Falcao, the club wouldn’t have another striker with significant experience in Spanish football, or really another first-team striker. Adrián looks like he could be a good player, but is still largely unproven. Even though Forlán’s value will never be higher, coming of his performance at the Copa America, it makes more sense to try and hold on to him, unless they have another option lined up. Brazilian midfielder Diego appears to also be on his way to Atletico, but especially after the arrival of Arda, he will continue to clog what is already a packed midfield. He would be a good playmaker, but without a good attack up top, he will be ineffective. It would almost be the complete opposite of how the club has been in the past with Aguero and Forlán as the striking duo and no \<br /><br /> Either way, with Falcao’s arrival, Atleti supporters are hoping to see a Rojiblanco revival and not another false dawn.
Joseph Zucker
2011-08-19T14:45:00Z
What's blank, white and red all over? Atletico's shirt.
Joseph Zucker
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Whats-blank,-white-and-red-all-over-Atleticos-shirt./790564812452613388.html
2011-08-19T14:40:00Z
2011-08-19T14:40:00Z
You only have to take one look at Atletico Madrid’s new shirt to notice a gaping hole. It is, of course, the lack of a shirt sponsor after Kia Motors announced it would not renew its contract to remain the main sponsor for the club. Perhaps the writing had been on the wall for the company back in 2007. It was then that the club had upset Kia by not following the part of the contract stating that players would drive Kia automobiles to and from training. With cars given to each player free of charge, it was only captain Maxi Rodriguez who had adhered to the agreement. Maybe it wasn’t a decision that had been made 4 years ago. It could be the fact that the car company simply didn’t want to pay Atletico almost €10 million a year with the economy the way it is.<br /><br />Either way, that is a lot of money the club has yet to replace. The owners themselves have confirmed the debt of Atletico stands at around €183 million, which of course pales in comparison to their Madrid neighbors. Real Madrid, however, are the second richest club in the world and generate the most revenue of any football club. Atletico literally cannot afford to simply leave the front of its shirt blank. It may look better for the traditionalists, especially with the club celebrating 100 years of wearing its red and white color combination, but unfortunately for those traditionalists, football is now run by the almighty dollar.<br /><br />The fact the the front of the shirt remains blank is rather confounding to me. This is a club that is a little over one year removed from winning the Europa League and are the current holders of the UEFA Super Cup. They play in the Spanish capital, which regardless of who their neighbors are, means their support is strong. Last season, Atletico had the third highest attendance in La Liga. And in 2014, the club will move from the Vincente Calderón and into the newly renovated Estadio La Peineta. Liverpool, a club very similar to Atletico in terms of backroom drama, financial difficulties and lack of recent success, was able to lock up a 4-year, £80 million sponsorship with Standard Chartered. And that was under the ownership of Tom Hicks and George Gillett.<br /><br />The fact of the matter is, Atletico Madrid is in a situation where sponsors should be banging on the door for an opportunity to be front and center on the club’s kit. Instead, there are reports where online dating site Ashley Madison has offered €3 million to be the shirt sponsor. For those who don’t know, the site brags “the most recognized name in infidelity” and has the motto: “Life is short. Have an affair.” It is of course highly unlikely that they will end up on the shirt, but with the management of Atletico, you never know. While any type of deal that Liverpool inked is unattainable, it shows that a club with history and support can find good deals somewhere.<br /><br />Club President Enrique Cerezo has stated the value of the sponsorship to be in the range of €5-8 million. Apparently, no one has met that valuation. It’s understandable that the board would want to hold out for what it feels is fair. You don’t want to see the club agree to a deal that years down the road looks like a pittance. On the other hand, by holding out, money is being left on the table. With the club’s financials the way they stand, Atletico has no option but to sell its best players. With a lack of sufficient revenue, those players would be sold at an increased rate for a quick profit. Someone like Sergio Aguero might spend three years at the club, instead of five, and receive half the transfer value of his £35 million move. La Liga is essentially a two-team league, and the only competition for the rest of the clubs is to qualify for the Champions League. In order to that, Atletico needs to maximize its profits. With a large blank space on the shirt, though, there will be an equally large space on the revenue book.
Joseph Zucker
2011-08-19T14:40:00Z
Liver N' Onions Week 8/15/11
Nash Larson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Liver-N-Onions-Week-8/15/11/724180539740520518.html
2011-08-19T14:30:00Z
2011-08-19T14:30:00Z
<p>Your weekly Liver n' Onions dissects the inner and outer workings of Liverpool FC, delving into the latest news, rumors and fan fantasies associated with the Merseyside club. </p>
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<p><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kQdPQurLZFc/Tk1ul6QHofI/AAAAAAAAANM/XeVbaGuglpU/s1600/36286_med_raul_meireles-1.jpg"><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kQdPQurLZFc/Tk1ul6QHofI/AAAAAAAAANM/XeVbaGuglpU/s1600/36286_med_raul_meireles-1.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a></p>
<p> </p>
<p>Latest paper talk circling around England is that Chelsea is looking to raid Liverpool's overstocked midfield for Raul Meireles. Seemingly losing the fight for Luka Modric, and missing out on Javier Pastore, Chelsea are desperate to strengthen their aging midfield. If AVB coax's the Tattoo-clad Portugeezer, it would be massive loss for Liverpool! Without a shadow of a doubt Meireles was one if not Liverpool's best players last year. Traditionally a box-to-box midfielder Meireles was deployed on the wing, and even against such adversity shined. Looking at the Pool's opening fixture v. Sunderland, Dalgleish left the midfield responsibility up to new-boys Charlie Adam and Jordan Henderson, only bringing Meireles on for the final 15 min of the game. I hope for the sake of the club that the former Porto man is in the Scot's plans this season as it would be a big waste to lose him. It's like a child playing exclusively with his new toy, rather than an older one that still works perfectly fine, and has more gadgets. Getting decent time last year to prove his worth, I feel he needs a whole season in England to show his true talent, as he did in Portugal. For me Meireles should ALWAYS be starting before Adam, 10 out of 10. Better player, slightly different but for my money better. Taking from what I saw in their first match Dalgleish looks like he'll give the English players the starting spots, a love affair that could end poorly. Meireles a solid pick up for any team, and the bad ass of all bad asses would be sorrily missed by this fan.</p>
<p>Furthur news:</p>
<p>According to reports Liverpool are primed to hijack any deal for Bolton's centre-back Gary Cahill. Following suit with British signings, Dalgleish knows that the back needs strengthening and Cahill is pure class. Bolton has been stubborn in parting with their prized asset, searching for the right deal, which in Liverpool's case could be sweetened with David N'gog going the other way. Bolton have been keen on the young frenchman all summer, but didn't feel he was worth the 4 million pound price tag slapped upon him. Frankly, I agree he's slight, not hungry enough and I would glad the see the back of him. Owen Coyle will be hoping for another Danny Sturridge, but with N'god awful will get a large amount of nothing.</p>
<p>Strong, commanding, English centre-back is exactly what Liverpool needs, and if the move is completed, Cahill should be primed to shine. He surprised us all on the opening fixture against QPR with a fantastic goal from outside the box, cementing his value not only defensively but coming up with the odd goal. Cahill is valued at about 20 million pounds and according to the inflated price's in football, is worth it. The deal set up is N'gog, Raheem Sterling and 10 Million Pounds for Cahill who is out of contract in 10 months, so cashing in on him would be a smart move for Bolton. Owen Coyle will know this and being the George Clooney look-alike he is, should consider that. </p>
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<p class="separator"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EZ45HYbInlk/Tk1u93hacuI/AAAAAAAAANQ/XIfgxBtNh3Y/s1600/gary-cahill-007.jpg"><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EZ45HYbInlk/Tk1u93hacuI/AAAAAAAAANQ/XIfgxBtNh3Y/s320/gary-cahill-007.jpg" border="0" alt="" width="320" height="192" /></a></p>
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<p>With only 12 days left in the transfer market, Dalgleish needs to come guns a'blazin' if he wants to sign a centre-back. Chasing Ryan Shawcross from Stoke, Scott Dann at Birmingham and even talks of Per Mertesacker have arose. Cahill has been on the Scots hit list all summer, but there hasn't been a strong link until this week. Arsenal have been soliciting the services of the England international, but have acted like a kid too afraid to ask a stranger to by'em a pack of smokes outside a liquor store. Liverpool need to jump at the opportunity, even if it means overpaying: a non-issue in the signings of Henderson, Carroll, and Downing. Dann...not the man, Shawcross... he's alright, Cahill...classy, strong and commanding. Get on it, Kenny!</p>
Nash Larson
2011-08-19T14:30:00Z
Stand Up and Be Heard Sounders!
Rick Fitzgerald
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Stand-Up-and-Be-Heard-Sounders!/429051348115098140.html
2011-08-19T04:33:00Z
2011-08-19T04:33:00Z
I remember when I first started watching MLS, I have to admit, I was a bit underwhelmed. Matches held on college football fields where the lines and football logos were simply covered over - poorly, I might add - was a distraction trying to figure out where the penalty area began but I assumed it was somewhere around the pitch that was colored red and said "UTAH." To say the product put out by the MLS was shabby is like saying that the movie "Battlefield Earth" was slightly bad (in fact, it was rated one of the worst 50 movies ever.) I watched a match here or there out of pure morbid curiosity - and because I love football - but to be honest, I didn't see this league going anywhere. Of course I had to compare it to the (then) EPL and other well established leagues. But see, that's what I get for being a football snob.<br /><br />Fast forward to today. While some teams are still playing on those covered up football greens, a lot of teams have moved or built "soccer" stadiums that capture that old English glory in their design and construct. Seeing some of the grounds now, one might think they were walking the grass at Craven Cottage or the City Ground. This small change in the quality of the product presentation, along with the inflow of talented superstars like Henry, Keane and of course, Beckham, has lifted the MLS from a backyard dirt-lot, cones for goals soccer game into a beautiful stage where thousands of die-hard fans gather to watch the elite in America play. So to the MLS I say, well done!<br /><br />But the point of this blog isn't to lick the boots of the MLS because even with all of the added quality, there would still be no sport if not for the support of you (and me), that 12th player..or, the fan.<br /><br />Since day one, Seattle has been ridiculous in its support of the Sounders. Watching a match there was like being in The Black Hole at a Raiders game without all the bloodshed and stabbings. Seattle has boasted one of the most solid fan bases in the league and rivals many of the teams over seas. Sure, we don't house 85,000 people like some places in Europe, but averaging 37,000 crazy, screaming fans is not too shabby especially for a sport some would say doesn't exist here in the US. Go to a match and just look around. The noise is ear-piercing, the scarves raised high and the fans dedicated till the last second. This driving force of Seattle Sounder-ites makes itself known with a presence in this stadium the likes of which I had never previously seen. Clubs coming to this ground know that they are not only playing the likes of Montero and Keller, they are also going up against the Emerald City Supporters and Gorilla FC. Fans like these make this stadium one of the hardest to leave with points in hand.<br /><br /><img src="/images/admin/untitled.bmp" alt="" width="315" height="237" /><br /><br />Along the way, Toronto FC, Vancouver and Portland have also managed to start campaigns with very solid and boisterous fan bases. I think people along the way are beginning to realize, en masse, that the MLS has taken big steps to promote football and produce exciting matches week in and week out. Fans across the country are taking note and showing up in droves with their blue hair and lifted scarves and, yes, the vuvuzela (ugh!).<br /><br />So as an American football fan and snob, I have to say that it is great to see football - the real football - is alive and kicking here in the US. While teams come from across the pond and, for the most part, kick the hell out of the MLS squads, I believe with the fan base and overall support this league has, expansion will continue and quality players will continue to arrive. Those days of fearing BPL teams are just about over.<br /><br /><br />On a final, unrelated note, how bout it Seattle??? 4-1 over Comunicacion? Not a bad way to start another round of the CONCACAF Champions League, huh?<br /><br />Till next time<br /><br />Be safe and take care<br /><br /><br />Follow on Twitter @undefeatedarmy <br /><br /><br /><br />
Rick Fitzgerald
2011-08-19T04:33:00Z
Npower: The Good, The Bad and The Ugly
Rick Fitzgerald
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Npower:--The-Good,-The-Bad-and-The-Ugly/-506208137586932480.html
2011-08-19T04:31:00Z
2011-08-19T04:31:00Z
Ya, I'm back...I won't say what happened but I will say that a hammer is a terrible tool to fix your computer with..<br /><br />Aaaannnywaaaay.... Now that we are in the 2-3 week period for the nPower, I wanted to do a quick assessment of who is doing what and who isn't doing anything in what I like to call, "The Good, The Bad and The Ugly."<br /><br />First, The GOOD:<br /><br />Correct me if I am wrong, but was Southampton NOT in League One last year? I think someone forgot to tell them. I know its only been three matches but wow, 3-0 with a GD of +5 is pretty impressive. How about the solid 3-1 win over Leeds? With tricky matches v Millwall and Leicester coming up, it'll be interesting to see if snipers Lallana and Connelly can keep up the scoring.<br /><br />Yes, that is a short list of "good" but we are only three weeks in...And now...<br /><br />The BAD:<br /><br />Yikes Forest! Where did you go? The belief that with Stevie stepping in, the team would be even stronger than last year and finally bounce that playoff-loss monkey off their backs. Now, hmmm...I dunno. Keeping in mind it's early, two draws (counting Carling), a loss and a win are not exactly the way to start the campaign. The draws will come back to haunt them and they do not want to get stuck in that rut like they did for part of the season last year.<br /><br />Ok, close your eyes Birmingham and Coventry fans...Can I just say that that match might have been the slowest I have ever seen? I'm not sure what happened but I think someone put sand in all the players' boots to keep them from making fast runs and getting some quality on net. Maybe it was great tactician-ing from the managers or maybe these teams are just too evenly matched, but any first time ball watcher tuning into this would have most likley flipped the channel after a few minutes too see something more exciting...like the 2011 Snail-lympics...<br /><br />The UGLY:<br /><br />Where are you Hull? No, really, where did you go? Three matches, two losses and one win over another team that will appear here shorlty in "The UGLY." As I have said before, I have a soft spot for this team and watching them get beat down by Leeds and Macclesfield (in spite of Hull's 20 shots near the net!) is kinda hard. In these wee opening hours of the nPower, Hull find themselves closer to the bottom of the table than the top. Upcoming, hi-flyers Crystal Palace and mid-tablers Reading are on the menu. These will be some tough matches as Pearson tries to rally his troops and gain some confidence. With their only win coming against Ipswich, it would be hard to believe that Hull own much confidence at the moment. And as we all know, losing is infectious.<br /><br /><img src="/images/admin/imagesCATS37M9.jpg" alt="" width="341" height="281" /><br /><br />And speaking of Ipswich...Are they on track to become the nPower's new whipping boys? I dunno, they surely did when Southampton came to town. I know they are not on the bottom of the table (I'm looking at you Doncaster!) but this is another side that has dropped two and are starting to build some stats that are not very impressive. <br /><br />Finally, jumping down to League Two...Did anyone tell Hereford that it is ok to score? Holy hell! Three matches down and a -8 GD are not the way you get promoted. To say that they are firmly planted at the bottom of the table right now is an understatement. Lucky for them, fifth place AFC Wimbledon is on deck. Well, I guess that isn't so lucky. Maybe they can arrange a desperation friendly with Ipswich to build some confidence?<br /><br />That's all for this week. Next blog I would like to throw in a small section I like to call, "Getting to Know Your nPower." There are a lot of teams and one can easily get lost trying to figure out who is who. I would like to feature a team a week to familiarize you with some of these clubs. That way, maybe when you get your FIFA 12 on and start looking for lower league teams to play, you won't be picking as blindly as most.<br /><br />Take care<br /><br />Be safe<br /><br /><br />Follow on Twitter @ undefeatedarmy<br /><br /><br />
Rick Fitzgerald
2011-08-19T04:31:00Z
La Liga Preview Part III: Mid-Table
By Stephen Kuzner, WFD La Liga Blogger
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/La-Liga-Preview-Part-III:-Mid-Table/-983327814060374179.html
2011-08-17T21:19:00Z
2011-08-17T21:19:00Z
<p><strong>La Liga Preview Part III: Mid-Table<br /></strong>By Stephen Kuzner, WFD La Liga Blogger<br /><br />Hopefully, the world's greatest sports league will start its season in the next two weeks with La Liga's Round #1. A players strike over an emergency pay fund for players could disrupt things. To preview the league, I'll be presenting the teams in six groups of where there they'll finish starting with relegation, fighting relegation, mid-table, challenging for Europe, Europa League, and Champions League. At the end, you'll be able to get the whole La Liga guide in PDF format 20+ pages of La Liga soccer-intelligence that will be updated at the end of the transfer window in August as well as the winter window. We continue with who will be sitting mid-table. Here is who is safe, but without much to play for.<br /><br />----------------------------<br /><strong><br />Club Atlético Osasuna<br /></strong><strong><br />Founded</strong>: 1920 | 33 Years Top Flight | 16<sup>th</sup> All-Time Table<br /><strong>Nicknames</strong>: Los Rojillos, "Gorritxoak" (The little red ones)<br /><strong>Ground</strong>: Estadio Reyno de Navarra (19,800)<br /><strong>Last Year</strong>: 9<sup>th</sup> (47 Pts)<br /><strong>Manager</strong>: José Luis Mendilibar<br /><strong>Formation & Style</strong>: 4-4-2 / 4-4-1-1<br /><strong><br />BEST 11<br /></strong><br />Ricardo López (GK) | "Ricardo". Spain 2 Caps (2002). Age 39. 189 Apps for CAO.<br />Marc Bertrán (LB) | Spain U21 (2003). Age 29. Usually right back. Espanyol product.<br />Miguel Flaño (CD-L) | Spain U23 (2005). Age 26. 157 Apps for & product of Osasuna.<br />Sergio Fernández (CD-R) | "Sergio". Spain U21 (2000). Age 34. Gijón product.<br />Damià Abella Pérez (RB) | "Damià" Spanish. Catalonia 4 Caps (2004). Age 29.<br />Masoud Shojaei (LM) | Iran 27 caps. Age 27. Attackng midfielder or forward.<br />Francisco Puñal (MF-C) | "Patxi". Spanish. Age 35. Combative captain. CAO product.<br />Javad Nekounam (MF-C) | Iran 118 caps. Age 30. Well-rounded central midfielder.<br />Ibrahima Baldé (RM) | "Ibra". Senegalese. Age 20. Apps for Atlético in 2010-11.<br />Enrique Sola "Kike" (FW) | Spain U21 (2008). Age 25. Osasuna Product.<br />Dejan Lekiæ (FW) | Serbia 3 caps. Age 26. Sloga Kraljevo product.<br /><strong><br />Notable Returnees</strong>: Fernando Soriano (MF), Lolo (DF), Asier Riesgo (GK), Álvaro Cejudo (MF), Manuel Ortiz "Lolo" (DF), Krisztián Vadócz (FW), Javier Calleja (MF).<br /><strong><br />Players In:</strong> Marc Bertrán (<em>Tenerife</em>), Rubén González (<em>Mallorca</em>), Ibrahima Baldé (<em>Numancia</em>), Andrés (<em>Huesca</em>), Juan Francisco "Nino" (<em>Tenerife</em>), Ion Echaide (<em>Huesca</em>), Jukka Raitala (Hoffenheim).<br /><strong><br />Players Out:</strong> Soriano (Almería), Pandiani, Josetxo, Coro (<em>Espanyol</em>), Nacho Monreal (<em>Málaga</em>), Nacho Zabal (<em>Numancia</em>), Carlos Aranda (<em>Levante</em>), Javier Camuñas (Villarreal).<br /><strong><br />SUMMARY<br /></strong><br />With a few week left in the season last year, it looked like Osasuna was headed for relegation, but a strong finish propelled them to 9<sup>th</sup> place on the table. Such was the tightness in La Liga last year. Like 2009-10, Osasuna started slow and saw manager <strong>José Antonio Camacho</strong> sacked. In came <strong>José Luis Mendilibar</strong>, having been sacked himself from Valladolid about a year prior. Fortunately, he was able to the right the ship. The big question this year will be if Osasuna can get off to a better start than the previous couple years, have some better form on the road, and scored more than 45 goals. Then again, if they only let in 46 goals again, a mid-table finish is realistic. A win over Real Madrid and a fine showing at home against Barca accentuated an over-achieving season. However, being a club that lives within its means and pays its players on time has meant the loses of <strong>Nacho Monreal</strong>, <strong>Javier Camunas</strong>, <strong>Josetxo Romero</strong>, <strong>Walter Pandiani</strong> and <strong>Ferrán Corominas</strong>. These loses will be offset by reconfiguring the team around signings <strong>Marc Bertrán</strong>, <strong>Rubén</strong> <strong>González</strong>, <strong>Ibrahima</strong>, <strong>Andrés</strong>, <strong>Nino</strong>, and <strong>Jukka Raitala</strong>. In sum, Osasuna has more talent that at least a handful of La Liga teams and a fortress. They'll be fine.<br /><strong><br />Prediction: </strong>14<sup>th</sup> (Mid-Table)<br /><br />--------------------------------------<br /><strong><br />Real Sporting de Gijón, S.A.D.<br /></strong><strong><br />Founded</strong>: 1905 | 39 Years Top Flight | 15<sup>th</sup> All-Time Table<br /><strong>Nicknames</strong>: Sportinguistas / Gijonudos (ballsy Gijon) / Rojiblancos (red & whites)<br /><strong>Ground</strong>: El Molinón (25,885)<br /><strong>Last Year</strong>: 10<sup>th</sup> (47 Pts)<br /><strong>Manager</strong>: Manuel Preciado<br /><strong>Formation & Style</strong>: 4-3-2-1<br /><strong><br />BEST 11<br /></strong><br />Iván Cuéllar (GK) | "Pichu". Spain U23 2005. Atlético Madrid youth Product.<br />Roberto Canella (LB) | 122 Gijón Appearances. Spain U21 2008-10. Gijón Product.<br />Alberto Botía (CD-L) | Spain U21. Barca youth product. Big youth center back.<br />Grégory Arnolin (CD-R) | "Grégory". Veteran French defendor. PSG youth product.<br />Alberto Lora (RB) | Right-sided defender or midfielder. Real Madrid youth product.<br />Alberto Rivera (LM) | Central midfielder known for skill & vision. Spain U20 in 1997.<br />Sebastián Eguren (CM) | 42 caps for Uruguay. Defensive midfielder.<br />Miguel de las Cuevas (RM) | Longest name at "Miguel Ángel de las Cuevas Barberá".<br />Carmelo González (AM-L) | "Carmelo". Spain U21 2004. Age 28. Las Palmas product.<br />Óscar Trejo (AM-r) | Argentine. Age 23. 36 Appearances at Mallorca. Boca Product.<br />David Barral (CF) | Spaniard. Captain. Age 28. San Fernando product.<br /><strong><br />Notable Returnees</strong>: Juan Pablo (GK), Jorge García (DF), Mate Biliæ (FW), Iván Hernández (DF), Sergio Álvarez (MF), Luis Morán (FW), Nacho Cases (MF), Gastón Sangoy (FW), Nacho Novo (FW).<br /><strong><br />Players In:</strong> Óscar Trejo (<em>Mallorca</em>), Ricardo León (<em>Tenerife</em>), Damián Suárez (<em>Defensor</em>).<br /><strong><br />Players Out:</strong> José Ángel (Roma), Diego Castro (<em>Getafe</em>), André Castro (<em>Oporto</em>), Lluís Sastre (SD Huesca).<br /><strong><br />SUMMARY<br /></strong><br />Sporting Gijón, the 6<sup>th</sup> oldest team in La Liga, did well last year placing mid-table at 10<sup>th</sup>. They reflect their ballsy nickname "Gijonudos". They just keep coming at you. This bold approach resulted in a major upset of Real Madrid last year. It was a season of altibajos (highs and lows). There will be some holes for Manager <strong>Manuel Preciado</strong> to fill losing <strong>Diego Castro</strong>, <strong>Andre Castro</strong>, <strong>Jose Angel</strong>. To help offset these loses, in come striker <strong>Oscar Trejo</strong>, midfield creator <strong>Ricardo Leon</strong>, and young Uruguayan defensive talent <strong>Damian Suarez</strong>. Nevertheless, there is more going out than coming in. Gijón, however, does have stability, <strong>Preciado</strong>, and La Liga grade talent across the board on the pitch and in depth. <strong>Miguel de las Cuevas</strong> in addition to having La Liga's longest name is a versatile player capable of playing on the wings, behind a striker or in the midfield, and <strong>Roberto</strong> <strong>Canella</strong>, one of La Liga's most talented left-backs. Barca product and young center back, <strong>Alberto Botía</strong> was a bit of a revelation last year. <strong>Grégory</strong> is a serviceable center back. Captain <strong>David Barral</strong> is capable striker and looks good with Trejo sitting off him. A lot can be said for Gijón's all out approach that you would think would result in win or loses rather than draws. Yet, Gijón let La Liga in draws last year with 14. Only 4 teams had less loses than Gijón last year. This approach and stability keep them out of relegation.<br /><strong><br />Prediction: </strong>13<sup>th</sup> (Mid-Table)<br /><br />-------------------------------------<br /><strong><br />Real Club Deportivo Mallorca<br /></strong><strong><br />Founded</strong>: 1916 | 25 Years Top Flight | 18<sup>th</sup> All-Time Table<br /><strong>Nicknames</strong>: Los Bermellones (The Vermilions - The orange red color of their shirts)<br /><strong>Ground</strong>: ONO Estadi (23,142)<br /><strong>Last Year</strong>: 17<sup>th</sup> (44 Pts)<br /><strong>Manager</strong>: Michael Laudrup<br /><strong>Formation & Style</strong>: 4-4-2<br /><strong><br />BEST 11<br /></strong><br />David Aouate (GK) | "Dudu" Israel 61 caps. Age 33. Maccabi Haifa product.<br />Kevin García, (LB) | "Kevin". Spanish. Age 22. Mallorca Product.<br />José Nunes (CD-L) | "Nunes". Portugal U21 (1999). Age 34. S. Paivense product.<br />Iván Ramis (CD-R) | Spain U23 (2005). Age 26. 130 apps and product of Mallorca.<br />Gianni Zuiverloon (RB) | Netherlands U21 (2008). Age 24. Feyenoord product.<br />Gonzalo Castro (LM) | "Chori". Germany 5 caps. Age 24. 172 apps for Leverkusen.<br />Josep Lluis Martí (CM-L) | Spanish. Age 36. Mallorca product. Vice Captain.<br />Jonathan De Guzmán (CM-R) | Netherlands U23 (2008). Age 23. Feyenoord product.<br />Emilio Nsue (RM) | Spain U21 (2011). Age 21. Mallorca product. Forward or mid.<br />Alejandro Alfaro (FW) | Spain U21 (2007). Age 24. Winger/Striker. Sevilla product.<br />Tomer Hemed (FW) | Israel 1 cap. Age 24. Maccabi Haifa product.<br /><strong><br />Notable Returnees</strong>: José Manuel "Chico" (DF), Michael Pereira (MF), José Luis Martí (MF), Pau Cendrós (DF), João Victor (MF), Tomás Pina Isla (MF), Enrique Corrales (DF), Juan Calatayud (GK), Akihiro Ienaga (MF), Sergio Tejera (MF), Víctor Casadesús (FW).<br /><strong><br />Players In:</strong> Tomer Hemed (<em>Maccabi Haifa</em>), Juan Calatayud (<em>Hércules</em>), Pablo Cáceres (<em>Tigre</em>), Gianni Zuiverloon (<em>WBA</em>), Alejandro Alfaro (Sevilla).<br /><strong><br />Players Out:</strong> Óscar Trejo (<em>Sporting</em>), Rubén González (<em>Osasuna</em>), Ayoze Díaz (<em>Deportivo La Coruña</em>), Lux (<em>Deportivo</em>), Sergi Enrich (<em>Recreativo</em>), Enrique Corrales (Granada), Pierre<strong> </strong>Webó (Eskisehirspol).<br /><strong><br />SUMMARY<br /></strong><br />From 5<sup>th</sup> place in 2009-10 to 17<sup>th</sup> place last year in 2010-11, the Balearic Island club had a mighty slip. Much of last year they spent in the top half of the table for a diseasterous second half of the season. Being expelled by UEFA from the Europa League for financial difficulties symbolized a season of dashed expectations. From this the club has needed to sell key assets <strong>Pierre Webó</strong>, <strong>Rubén González</strong>, <strong>Ayoze</strong> <strong>Díaz</strong>, <strong>Lux</strong>, and <strong>Óscar Trejo</strong>. These departures should be offset if not improved upon with the less expensive arrivals of <strong>Gianni Zuiverloon</strong>, <strong>Pablo Caceres</strong>, <strong>Chico</strong>, <strong>Alejandro Alfaro</strong>, and <strong>Tomer Hemed</strong>. As of this writing the season seems to hinge on the clubs ability to hang-on to <strong>Gonzalo "Chori" Castro</strong> and <strong>Jonathan de</strong> <strong>Guzman</strong>. These two players would be the difference between a mid-table finish and fighting relegation again. A lot also depends on how Manager Michael Laudrup performs in his second season at Mallorca following last year's second half stumble. Fortunately, in a worst case scenario of losing Chori and de Guzman, there are a few teams with much less talent than Mallorca in La Liga to avoid the drop.<br /><strong><br />Prediction: </strong>12<sup>th</sup> (Mid-Table)<br /><br />----------------------------------------<br /><strong><br />Real Sociedad de Fútbol, S.A.D.<br /></strong><strong><br />Founded</strong>: 1909 | 64 Years Top Flight | 2 Titles | 8<sup>th</sup> All-Time Table<br /><strong>Nicknames</strong>: Txuri-urdin (white-blue), Erreala<br /><strong>Ground</strong>: Estadio Anoeta (32,076)<br /><strong>Last Year</strong>: 15<sup>th</sup> (45 Points)<br /><strong>Manager</strong>: Philippe Montanier<br /><strong>Formation & Style</strong>: 4-5-1<br /><strong><br />BEST 11<br /></strong><br />Claudio Bravo (GK) | "Chico". Chile 54 caps. Age 28. 124 apps for Sociedad.<br />Alberto de la Bella (LB) | Catalonia 1 cap. Age 25. Gramenet product.<br />Ion Ansotegui (CD-L) | Spanish. Age 29. 149 apps for Sociedad. Elbar product.<br />Mikel González (CD-R) | Spanish. Age 25. 150 apps and product of Sociedad.<br />Carlos Martínez (RB) | Spanish. Age 25. 85 apps with Sociedad. Izarra product.<br />Jeffrey Sarpong (CM-L) | Netherlands U21 (2003). Age 23. Attacking. Ajax product.<br />Mikel Aranburu (CM-R) | Spanish. Age 32. 373 apps for Sociedad. Captain.<br />Antoine Griezmann (LM) | France U21 (2010). Age 20. Mâcon & Sociedad product..<br />Xabi Prieto (CM) | Spain U21 (2005). Age 27. 245 apps for & product of Sociedad.<br />David Zurutuza (RM) | Spanish. Age 25. Attacking. Real Sociedad product.<br />Joseba Llorente (CF) | Spanish. Age 31. Real Sociedad product.<br /><strong><br />Notable Returnees</strong>: Imanol Agirretxe (FW), Daniel "Dani" Estrada (MF), Vadim Demidov (DF), Gorka Elustondo (MF), Mikel Labaka (DF) Eñaut Zubikarai (GK), Asier Illarramendi (MF), Markel Bergara (MF).<br /><strong><br />Players In:</strong> Borja Viguera (<em>Gimnàstic</em>), Iñigo Sarasola (<em>Real Unión</em>).<br /><strong><br />Players Out: </strong>Albistegui (Logroñés), Raúl Tamudo, Diego Rivas (Hércules), Mikel Labaka.<br /><strong><br />SUMMARY<br /></strong><br />Real Sociedad is a large club (64 top flight seasons, 2 titles, & a 32,076 stadium). They keep a core of Basque players, but also employ non-Basque Spanish players and foreigners. Outside of <strong>Raúl Tamudo</strong>, the club pretty much returns the same team that finished 15<sup>th</sup> last year. In fact, it's almost the same team that one promotion a year ago. The only other significant change was the exit of manager <strong>Martin Lasarte</strong> and signing of manager <strong>Philippe Montanier</strong> who kept French side Valenciennes F.C. in Ligue 1 last last season. His attacking approach will be fun to watch. Perhaps having a French manager will help keep rising French starlet <strong>Antoine Griezmann</strong> at the club. Keeping him may be the difference between mid-table and relegation. Other additions are <strong>Asier Illarramendi</strong> and <strong>Iñigo Martinez</strong> from the cantera. A big thing will be the cohesiveness of returing the entire back five of <strong>Chico</strong>, <strong>Alberto de la Bella</strong>, <strong>Ion Ansotegui</strong>, <strong>Mikel González</strong>, and <strong>Carlos</strong>. Further <strong>Xabi Prieto</strong> is coming-off a career best season that saw him in many La Liga Best 11's for 2010-11 including my own. Captain <strong>Mikel Aranburu</strong> is an anchor, <strong>Jeffrey Sarpong</strong> is a quality attacking midfielder, and <strong>Joseba Llorente</strong> is a serviceable forward. Montanier's attacking style, personnel stability, and 32,000+ strong at Estadio Anoeta should make Sociedad see some slight improvement.<br /><strong><br />Prediction: </strong>11<sup>th</sup> (Mid-Table)<br /><br />---------------------------<br /><strong><br />Getafe Club de Fútbol<br /></strong><strong><br />Founded</strong>: 1946 & 1983 | 7 Years Top Flight | 32<sup>nd</sup> All-Time Table<br /><strong>Nicknames</strong>: Azulones (<a title="Dark blue (color)" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dark_blue_(color)">The Dark Blues</a>), El Geta (Short for Getafe)<br /><strong>Ground</strong>: Coliseum Alfonso Pérez (17,700)<br /><strong>Last Year</strong>: 16<sup>th</sup> (44 Pts)<br /><strong>Manager</strong>: Luis García Plaza<br /><strong>Formation & Style</strong>: 4-4-2 / 4-2-3-1<br /><strong><br />BEST 11<br /></strong><br />Miguel Ángel Moyà (GK) | Spain U21. Age 27. Mallorca Product.<br />José Manuel (LB) | "Mané". Spanish. Age 66 apps for Getafe. Linense product.<br />Daniel Díaz (CD-L) | "Cata". Argentina 12 caps. Age 32. Rosario Central product.<br />Rafa López (CD-R) | "Rafa". Spanish. Age 26. Bosman transfer. Valladolid product.<br />Miguel Torres (LB) | Spain U21 (2009). Age 25. Right-footed. Real Madrid product.<br />Jaime Gavilán (LM) | Spain U21 (2006). Age 26. Sporting Benimaclet product.<br />Pablo Sarabia (CM-L) | Spain U19 (2011). Age 19. Attacking. Real Madrid product.<br />Juan Rodríguez (CM-R) | Spanish. Age 29. Defensive Mid. Malaga Product.<br />Diego Castro (RM) | Spanish. Age 29. Crafty left winger. 170 apps for Gijón.<br />Nicolás Fedor (FW) | "Miku". Venezuela 31 caps. Age 25. ST Villanueva product.<br />Adrián Colunga (FW) | Spanish. Age 26. 10 clubs in career. Sporting Gijón product.<br /><strong><br />Notable Returnees</strong>: Javier Casquero (MF), Oscar Alfredo Ustari (GK), Juan Rodríguez (MF), Pablo Sarabia (MF), Pedro Ríos (MF), Ángel Javier Arizmendi (FW).<br /><strong><br />Players In:</strong> Alberto Lopo (<em>Deportivo La Coruña</em>), Juan Rodríguez (<em>Deportivo La Coruña</em>), Mehdi Lacen (<em>Racing Santander</em>), Diego Castro (<em>Sporting Gijon</em>), Miguel Ángel Moyà (<em>Valencia</em>), Michelangelo Albertazzi (<em>AC Milan</em>), Pablo Sarabia (<em>Castilla</em>), Miguel Marcos "Míchel" (<em>Birmingham</em>), Juan Valera (<em>Atlético</em>).<br /><strong><br />Players Out:</strong> Arizmendi (Neuchatel), Manu del Moral (<em>Sevilla</em>), Albín (<em>Espanyol</em>), Marcano (<em>Villarreal</em>), Víctor Sánchez (<em>Barcelona</em>), Mario Álvarez (<em>Real Betis</em>), Daniel Parejo "Dani" (<em>Valencia</em>), Derek Boateng (<em>Dnipro</em>), Kas (<em>Bursaspor</em>), Miguel Pallardó (<em>Levante</em>)<br /><strong><br />SUMMARY<br /></strong><br />Getafe, a city in greater metro Madrid, is one of 4 Madrid-based clubs in La Liga. A smaller club, they have punched above their weight in recent years. In April 2011, they were bought by Dubai-based Royal Emirates Group for €70-€90m. The new ownerships's impact will play out over the next several months. Last season, the club avoided relegation on the last day of the campaign. Manager Míchel has been replaced by Levante's young miracle-worker Luis García. This summer, the club has sold players to buy with the sales of captain <strong>Manu del Moral</strong>, <strong>Dani Parejo</strong>, <strong>Derek Boateng</strong>, <strong>Víctor Sánchez</strong>, and <strong>Miguel Pallardó</strong>. But, a number of "adequate" replacements arrive with<strong> Diego Castro</strong>, <strong>Mehdi Lacen</strong>, <strong>Alberto Lopo</strong>, <strong>Juan</strong> <strong>Rodríguez</strong>, <strong>Miguel Ángel Moyà</strong>, and <strong>Jaime Gavilán</strong>. Further, there has been talk of <strong>Pedro León</strong> making a return. Some quality returns as well with <strong>Cata</strong>, <strong>Rafa</strong>, <strong>Mané</strong>, <strong>Adrián Colunga</strong>, and <strong>Miku</strong>. Like most of the teams I see mid-table, Getafe will stay afloat because they are a lot of teams in worse condition.<br /><strong><br />Prediction: </strong>10<sup>th</sup> (Mid-Table)<br /><em><br />Stephen Kuzner is a Baltimore-based Blogger for WorldFootballDaily.com who specializes in La Liga. You can reach him on Facebook at facebook.com/BarcaBlogger or Twitter at @twitter.com/BarcaBlogger.</em></p>
<p> </p>
By Stephen Kuzner, WFD La Liga Blogger
2011-08-17T21:19:00Z
La Liga Preview Part II: Avoiding The Drop.
By Stephen Kuzner, WFD La Liga Blogger
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/La-Liga-Preview-Part-II:-Avoiding-The-Drop./203554401097000146.html
2011-08-17T21:18:00Z
2011-08-17T21:18:00Z
<p><strong>La Liga Preview Part II: Avoiding The Drop<br /></strong>By Stephen Kuzner, WFD La Liga Blogger<br /><br />Hopefully, the world's greatest sports league will start its season in the next two weeks with La Liga's Round #1. A players strike over an emergency pay fund for players could disrupt things. To preview the league, I'll be presenting the teams in six groups of where there they'll finish starting with relegation, fighting relegation, mid-table, challenging for Europe, Europa League, and Champions League. At the end, you'll be able to get the whole La Liga guide in PDF format 20+ pages of La Liga soccer-intelligence that will be updated at the end of the transfer window in August as well as the winter window. We continue with who will narrowly miss the drop. Some changes have been made, Racing being moved up to #17 (previewed last week), in their place I have moved down Levante, since Felipe Caicedo has moved on. Here is who just misses drop.<br /><br />-----------------------------------------<br /><strong><br />Levante Unión Deportiva, S.A.D.<br /></strong><strong><br />Founded</strong>: 1909 | 6 Years Top Flight | 38<sup>th</sup> All-Time Table<br /><strong>Nicknames</strong>: Granotes<br /><strong>Ground</strong>: Estadi Ciutat de València (25,534)<br /><strong>Last Year</strong>: 14<sup>th</sup> (45 Pts)<br /><strong>Manager</strong>: Juan Ignacio Martínez<br /><strong>Formation & Style</strong>: 4-4-2 / 4-3-3<br /><strong><br />BEST 11<br /></strong><br />Gustavo Munúa (GK) | 25 Caps for Uruguay. Age 33. Nacional Montevideo Product.<br />Asier del Horno (LB) | 10 Caps for Spain (2006). Age 30. Athletic Bilbao Product.<br />Sergio Ballesteros (CD-L) | Captain. Spain U23 (1997). Age 35. Levante Product.<br />Victoriano Rivas (CD-R) | "Nano". Spanish. Age 31. Left-footed central defender.<br />Javi Venta (RB) | Spanish. Age 35. 182 appearances for Villarreal. Oviedo Product.<br />Juan Gómez (LM) | ""Junanlu". 3 goals last year. Age 31. Don Benito Product.<br />Miguel Pallardó (CM-L) | Spain U21 (2007). Age 24. Valencia product.<br />Xavi Torres (CM-R-D) | Age 24. Spent time at Barca with 2 apps. Villarreal product.<br />Valmiro Lopes (RM) | "Valdo". Spanish-Verdean. 149 apps for Osasuna & Espanyol.<br />Rubén Suárez (FW) | Spain U21 (1999). Age 32. Sporting Gijón product.<br />Wellington Silva (FW) | Brazil U17 (2009). Age 18. Fluminense product.<br /><strong><br />Notable Returnees</strong>: Vicente Iborra (MF), David Cerrajería (Cerra) (DF), Juanfran Francisco García (DF), Rafa Jordà (FW), Keylor Navas (GK).<br /><strong><br />Players In:</strong> Farinós (<em>Hércules</em>), José Barkero (<em>Numancia</em>), Keylor Navas (<em>Albacete</em>), Pedro López (<em>Valladolid</em>), Xavi Torres (<em>Málaga</em>), Aranda (<em>Osasuna</em>), Asier del Horno (<em>Valencia</em>), Gustavo Cabral (<em>Estudiantes Tecoss</em>).<br /><strong><br />Players Out:</strong> Felipe Caicedo (<em>Lokomotiv Moscow</em>), Xisco Nadal, Munúa, Cerra (Córdoba), Reina (Cartagena), J. Montero (<em>Villarreal</em>), Wellington (<em>Arsenal</em>), Xisco Muñoz (<em>Dinamo Tbilisi</em>), Christian Stuani (<em>Reggina</em>), Miguel Pérez, Gorka Larrea, Miquel Robusté (Xerez).<br /><strong><br />SUMMARY<br /></strong><br />Levante is the reason why writing a preview and predictions for La Liga before the transfer window is shut can be futile. Letting, 22 year-old budding-star Ecuadorian striker, <strong>Felipe Caicedo</strong> escape to <em>Lokomotiv Moscow</em> tempts me to downgrade Levante to relegation or fighting relegation. The club's experience with La Liga has been that of a yo-yo club with 6 seasons in the Spanish top flight with a trivia note of Johan Cruyff doing a brief 10 match stink at Levante in the 1980's. He must have liked Levante's similar colors to Barcelona. There are a lot of players in this squad the wrong side of 30 years including the entire back five of <strong>Gustavo Munúa</strong>, <strong>Asier del Horno</strong>, <strong>Sergio Ballesteros</strong>, <strong>Victoriano Rivas</strong>, and <strong>Javi Venta</strong>. If these guys drop-off like they eventually soon will Levante could let in a lot of goals. Also over 30 are <strong>Juan Gómez</strong> "Junanlu", <strong>Valmiro Lopes</strong> "Valdo", and <strong>Rubén Suárez</strong>. Hope comes from central midfielders <strong>Miguel Pallardó</strong> and <strong>Xavi Torres</strong> and 18 year old Brazilian <strong>Wellington Silva</strong>. If Wellington is the next Caicedo, Levante stays up.<br /><strong><br />Prediction: </strong>18<sup>th</sup> (Relegation) <em>*Was previously 14<sup>th</sup>. Racing was moved to 17<sup>th</sup>.<br /></em><br />---------------------------<br /><strong><br />Real Zaragoza, S.A.D.<br /></strong><strong><br />Founded</strong>: 1932 | 56 Years Top Flight | 9<sup>th</sup> All-Time Table<br /><strong>Nicknames</strong>: Blanquillos (little-whites), Maños (magnus / great)<br /><strong>Ground</strong>: La Romareda (34,596)<br /><strong>Last Year</strong>: 13<sup>th</sup> (45 Pts)<br /><strong>Manager</strong>: Javier Aguirre<br /><strong>Formation & Style</strong>: 4-3-2-1 / 4-2-3-1<br /><strong><br />BEST 11<br /></strong><br />Leo Franco (GK) | "Leo". 4 Caps for Argentina. 153 appearances for Atletico.<br />Ivan Obradoviæ (LB) | Serbian international. "Gari" (tan). 23 years old.<br />Matteo Contini (CD-L) | Veteran Italian center back. Former AC Milan youth product.<br />Paulo da Silva (CD-R) | 95 caps for Paraguay. 2008 Best player in México Primera.<br />Efraín Juárez (RB) | Celtic Loan. 34 caps for Mexico. 2 years in Barça youth system.<br />Kevin Lacruz (LM) | Young Spanish U19 midfielder. "Kevin". Zaragoza youth product.<br />Leo Ponzio (CM) | 7 caps for Argentina. Former Newell's Old Boys youth product.<br />Ángel Lafita (RM) | Spanish winger and attacking midfielder. Zaragoza product.<br />Braulio Nóbrega (AM-L) | Canary Islander. "Braulio". Former Spain U20.<br />Edu Oriol (AM-R) | Catalan winger. Spent last two years with Barça B.<br />Ikechukwu Uche (FW) | 27 caps for Nigeria. Spent most of career in Spain.<br /><strong><br />Notable Returnees</strong>: Javier Paredes (DF), Juan Carlos (MF), Toni Doblas (GK), Ádám Pintér (MF) , Maurizio Lanzaro (DF), Abraham Minero (DF).<br /><strong><br />Players In:</strong> Raúl Goni (<em>Real Madrid B</em>), David Mateos (<em>Real Madrid</em>), Abraham (<em>Barça B</em>), Edu Oriol (<em>Barça B</em>), Juan Carlos (<em>Real Madrid B</em>), Efraín Juárez (Celtic), Roberto Jiménez (<em>S.L. Benfica</em>)<br /><strong><br />Players Out:</strong> Ander Herrera (<em>Athletic</em>), Gabi Fernández (<em>Atlético</em>), Edmilson (<em>Ceará</em>), Florent Sinama (<em>AS Saint-Etienne</em>), Jorge López, Maurizio Lanzaro, Marco Pérez (Independiente), Carlos Diogo, Jiri Jarosik, Nicolás Bertolo (<em>Palermo</em>), Saïd Boutahar, Guirane N'Daw (<em>Saint Etienne</em>).<br /><strong><br />SUMMARY<br /></strong><br />For a team that ranks 9<sup>th</sup> in Spain's all-time league table, Zaragoza barely avoided relegation the past two years. Both seasons included the recipe of sacking the manager responsible for a slow start. My guess is the odds are 50/50 on <strong>Javier Aguirre</strong> seeing a full season. A lot of valuable players have departed including <strong>Ander Herrera</strong>, <strong>Gabi</strong>, <strong>Diogo</strong>, <strong>Jiri Jarosik</strong>, and <strong>Nicolás Bertolo</strong>. Aguirre has moved the team in direct of more youth and fewer languages. In come the youth Spanish-speaking <strong>Raúl Goni</strong>, <strong>David</strong> <strong>Mateos</strong>, <strong>Abraham Mineiro</strong>, <strong>Edu Oriol</strong>, <strong>Juan Carlos</strong>, <strong>Efraín Juárez</strong>. These changes are likely economical. Zaragoza went into voluntary bankruptcy to halve its debt. The club symbolizes La Liga's economic disparity. The one thing that will keep them up is Racing, Levante, Granada, and Rayo being in worse shape. The 1<sup>st</sup> team has some servicable players in <strong>Ivan Obradoviæ</strong> (LB), <strong>Paulo da Silva</strong> (CB), <strong>Efraín Juárez</strong> (RB), <strong>Kevin</strong> (MF), <strong>Ponzio </strong>(MF), <strong>Lafita </strong>(MF), <strong>Braulio </strong>(MF), and <strong>Ikechukwu Uche </strong>(FW). This year looks like a rebuilding season without relegation.<br /><strong><br />Prediction: </strong>16<sup>th</sup> (Fighting Relegation)<br /><br />----------------------------------<br /><strong><br />Real Betis Balompié S.A.D.<br /></strong><strong><br />Founded</strong>: 1907 | 46 Years Top Flight | 1 Titles | 10<sup>th</sup> All-Time Table<br /><strong>Nicknames</strong>: Béticos del Universo, Verdiblancos (Green & Whites)<br /><strong>Ground</strong>: Benito Villamarín (52,745)<br /><strong>Last Year</strong>: Promoted<br /><strong>Manager</strong>: Pepe Mel<br /><strong>Formation & Style</strong>: 4-4-2<br /><strong><br />BEST 11<br /></strong><br />Iñaki Goitia (GK) | 29 year old Spanish goal keeper. Amorebieta youth product.<br />Fernando Vega (LB) | Former Spain U21. Sevilla youth product. Runs all day.<br />Arturo Garcia (CD-L) | "Arzu". Captain. Can play defensive midfield too.<br />Mario Álvarez (CD-R) | "Mario". Canary Islander. Former Spain U21.<br />Javi Chica (RB) | Spanish fullback. Former Spain U20. 117 appearances for Espanyol.<br />Ignacio Pérez (MF) | "Nacho". Spanish left-sided midfielder. Málaga youth product.<br />Salvador Sevilla (MF) "Salva". Spanish central midfielder Betis youth product.<br />Juande López (MF) | "Juande". Former Spanish U21. Defensive midfielder.<br />Juanma Gómez (MF) | Spanish right-sided midfielder. Don Benito youth product.<br />Jefferson Montero (FW) | 21 year old Ecuadorian left winger on loan from Villarreal.<br />Rubén Castro (FW) | "Rubén". Spain U21 (2003). Age 32. Artesano product.<br /><strong><br />Notable Returnees</strong>: Nélson Augusto (DF), Iriney Santos (MF), Jerónimo Figueroa "Momo" (MF), José Dorado (DF), Beñat Etxebarria (MF), Iriney Santos (MF), Jorge Molina (FW), Ezequiel Calvente (LW).<br /><strong><br />Players In:</strong> Javier Chica (<em>Espanyol</em>), Antonio<strong> </strong>Amaya (<em>Wigan</em>), Mario Álvarez (<em>Getafe</em>), Fabricio Ramírez (<em>Valladolid</em>), Javier Matilla (<em>Villarreal</em>), Jefferson Montero (<em>Villarreal</em>).<br /><strong><br />Players Out:</strong> David Belenguer, David Odonkor (Dornberg), Israel David (Xerez).<br /><strong><br />SUMMARY<br /></strong><br />If you new to La Liga, but know the EPL, when you look at Real Betis, you see Newcastle: a large club (the Benito Villamarín packs in 52,745), a storied history (46 years in the top flight and a title), and a recent relegation and promotion (2009 & 2011). Like many in La Liga, financial turmoil had damaged the club to the toon of €80million in debt, but they are moving in the right direction. Former Rayo Vallecano boss and ex-Betis player Pepe Mel brought in to manage the club and was able to right the ship by dropping older overpaid stars and replacing them with sound Segunda players. Betis won the Segunda by four points and along the way put up a performance against Barcelona in the Copa del Rey that rated as one of Barca's most difficult encounters last year. The "can't miss" fixture of La Liga Round 1 will be the home derby against Sevilla with Betis symbolizing the working class struggle to Sevilla's privileged. Well, this characterization might not be accurate anymore. The signings of <strong>Javier Matilla</strong> and <strong>Jefferson Montero</strong> from Villarreal and Javi Chica from Expanyol should add some spark to a team that includes <strong>Fernando</strong>, <strong>Arzu</strong>, <strong>Nacho</strong>, <strong>Salva</strong>, and <strong>Juande</strong>. It won't be easy, but Betis should stay up.<br /><strong><br />Prediction: </strong>15<sup>th</sup> (Fighting Relegation)<br /><em><br />Stephen Kuzner is a Baltimore-based Blogger for WorldFootballDaily.com who specializes in La Liga. You can reach him on Facebook at facebook.com/BarcaBlogger or Twitter at @twitter.com/BarcaBlogger.</em> </p>
By Stephen Kuzner, WFD La Liga Blogger
2011-08-17T21:18:00Z
Nearly There: U20 Semi-Finals
Scotty Byington
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Nearly-There:-U20-Semi-Finals/-395841022028237766.html
2011-08-17T18:29:00Z
2011-08-17T18:29:00Z
After an exciting weekend of quarterfinal action that saw heartbreak for the host nation and a near historic Argentine-winning streak snapped, we are now treated with some mid-week World Cup action. The stakes just so happen to be a place in this weekend’s final in Bogotá. With all the drama and excitement the tournament has displayed thus far, these semi-finals will surely be the stand out of a day that also boasts UEFA Champions League action.With no further delay, let’s get into it:
<p><strong>Brazil vs. Mexico</strong> – Spectators might be surprised to see them this far, but the Mexico U20 side are clearly motivated by the grander success of their country this summer at all levels of national completion. <em>El Tri</em> started the tournament in less-than-spectacular fashion, only winning one game in the group stages. They were then taken all the way to penalties against Cameroon in the Round of 16, but have found their winning stride at exactly the right time. Mexico’s 3-1 win over host nation Columbia was a well-deserved result, shouldering the underdog mantle to full aplomb. Interestingly, and somewhat condemning for the future of the USMNT, <em>El Tri’s</em> second appearance in the last four will move them onto 49 matches at the U-20 World Cup, and thereby overtake the US as the CONCACAF nation with the most games in the history of the tournament.</p>
<p>Continuing to write history themselves, Brazil enter the remaining stages as clear frontrunners to claim yet another World Cup title, what will be their fifth should this crop of players succeed. <em>A Seleção</em>, now unbeaten in their last 12 matches at the U-20 World Cup with their last defeat dating back in 2007, will feel confident after overcoming the hugely talented Spain over the weekend. Though the match went to penalties, the eventual winners rightful progressed, as they were the better team throughout. The match itself was a game to behold as both Spain and Brazil committed to attacking football and did not back down from their game plans. It will be difficult for any of the remaining matches to top this one in terms of pure footballing display.</p>
<p><em>Prediction: 3-1 Brazil</em></p>
<p><strong>France vs. Portugal</strong> – Every football student knows the history between these two European sides, yet interestingly, they have never met at the U20 level. Here’s to hoping history continues to bestow her drama on this encounter.</p>
<p>Portugal’s appearance in the semi-finals comes down to sheer defense impenetrability. It has been 525 minutes since they last picked the ball out of their net, and the boys from Iberia are a mere 100 minutes shy of Brazil’s record of not conceding. Yet just as they are a nightmare to get one past, so too are they a bit of a scare in scoring themselves. Astonishingly, Portugal has only netted three times this tournament. It doesn’t take a genius to know what it takes to win a match. Goals will be needed if this current squad wants to replicate their footballing ancestors of 20 years when Portugal last lifted the U20 trophy. Of course that team just so happened to include some minor individuals in the form of Luis Figo, Rui Costa, and Joao Pinto.</p>
<p>France will hope they have uncovered an individual jewel of their own in the shape of Alexandre Lacazette. Utilized as a super sub, Lacazette has netted four times this tournament. Most importantly, hitting a brace last weekend against the formidable Nigeria. Though unconvincing in the early going, <em>Les Bleuets </em>have pulled together and proved themselves to be a highly organized side. This is the first time France have qualified for the U20 semi-finals and they will not want to stop writing national history.</p>
<p><em>Prediction: 1-0 France (ET)</em></p>
Scotty Byington
2011-08-17T18:29:00Z
Premier League Recap (August 13-15)
Adam Johnson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Premier-League-Recap-August-13-15/939139299096212320.html
2011-08-16T15:39:00Z
2011-08-16T15:39:00Z
<p>Its mid-August in England and that only means one thing, the start of another Barclays Premier League season. This year is the 20<sup>th</sup> season of said Premier League and it promises to be an exciting season yet again. Manchester United, Chelsea, and Manchester City are the favorites with Arsenal, Liverpool and Tottenham the most likely to be nipping at their heels. We know who has gone where and what managers need to do what so let’s just get to the first weekend of matches.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Tottenham v. Everton</span>-postponed</p>
<p>This game unfortunately wasn’t played due to the riots in London last week. We will look forward to this fixture when it is actually played.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Liverpool 1-1 Sunderland</span></p>
<p>It is a new year at Anfield and one full of big expectations. The historic club started brightly in their opener with plenty of new signings on display. Luis Suarez drew a penalty, which he missed, inside the first ten minutes. Suarez would make up for that miss with a goal that skimmed off his head from a perfect Charlie Adam free kick. Liverpool looked likely to score again but that goal never came and in fact they were scored against. After a break neck first half it was a wonder strike from new signing Seb Larrson that would level the match for Sunderland in the second half. Both teams had decent chances but the Reds would have to settle for a draw on opening day.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">QPR 0-4 Bolton</span></p>
<p>Welcome back to the Prem, QPR. Bolton hammered new guys on Saturday with the first goal coming from defender Gary Cahill’s brilliant strike into the top left corner. It was all downhill from there in the second half as Bolton would add three more thanks to a QPR own goal, Ivan Klasnic, and Fabrice Muamba.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Fulham 0-0 Aston Villa</span></p>
<p>Both clubs came in with new managers making their debut and both clubs left with a point. It wasn’t a bad game but the lack of finishing and early season rust showed. Shay Given, Villa’s new keeper via Man City, came off as probably the man of the match.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Blackburn 1-2 Wolves</span></p>
<p>Two teams that will surely battle relegation all season long faced off on opening day. Blackburn started well and got the opener through new signing Mauro Formica. Wolves came right back with Steven Fletcher leveling the score. Later in the match Kevin Doyle missed a penalty for Wolves but in the ensuing madness the ball fell to Stephen Ward who won it for Wolves.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Wigan 1-1 Norwich</span></p>
<p>This was probably the least glamorous match of a not so glamorous first weekend in the Premier League season. Goals from Ben Watson for Wigan (penalty) and Wes Hoolahan for Norwich sealed a share of the points.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Newcastle 0-0 Arsenal</span></p>
<p>In the wake of two of their best players, Cesc Fabregas and Samir Nasri, leaving the club, Arsenal looked pretty sluggish in their opener. New signing, Gervinho, started well and showed his speed will be an asset for the Gunners. But, later in the match, it was Gervinho along with Newcastle bad boy, Joey Barton, who would get involved. A weak slap to the face would see Gervinho sent off and Barton, who started the whole thing, see just a yellow card. It was an ugly end to an ugly game.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Stoke 0-0 Chelsea</span></p>
<p>New Chelsea boss, Andre Villas-Boas, decided to go with a 4-3-3 formation with three strikers up front. It was Didier Drogba who would be left out and Fernando Torres almost justified that move. Torres looked up for it and much quicker than last year but his play never amounted to a goal. Chelsea had plenty of chances but a lack of calls from the ref and a superb game from Stoke goalkeeper, Asmir Begovich, kept the match at 0-0 for good. </p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">West Brom 1-2 Manchester United</span></p>
<p>The defending champions got their season under way at the Hawthorns against Roy Hodgson’s side. United looked great to start the game with Danny Welbeck and Tom Cleverley getting surprise starts. It was Wayne Rooney who would open the scoring for the Red Devils but West Brom fought back well. Their equalizer came on a low shot into the right corner by Shane Long, a shot that should’ve been saved by new, and young, United keeper, David de Gea. But, we have seen this story before. It would only be fitting that a newcomer for Man Utd. would be the key part in the winning goal. His shot went down as an own goal but Ashley Young deserves all the credit for the winner.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Manchester City 4-0 Swansea</span></p>
<p>It was another off season of big spending at City and the highest expectations, maybe ever, have been placed on the club. They started the season brilliantly against one of the new additions to the league, Swansea. Chance after chance came and Swansea keeper Michel Vorm, who had a great game, kept City out in the first half. The goals would come though and come fast. Edin Dzeko got the first on a rebound from an Adam Johnson shot. Sergio Aguero was then introduced for the first time in a Man City shirt and he was phenomenal. He scored his first goal for the club just eight minutes after coming on. Aguero then set up David Silva on a sublime piece of determination and skill. But the new guy wasn’t done yet.</p>
<p>It was great to see Premier League players running across my TV screen this weekend and while the nine games on display didn’t produce any classics, it was still high quality stuff. This year, at the end of each recap I will give out a team and player of the week award and this weekend’s team of the week has to be Manchester City. They bounced back very well from last week’s Community Shield loss and looked fantastic in front of the home crowd. Their two stars of the day, David Silva and Sergio Aguero, will get this week’s joint player of the week award.</p>
Adam Johnson
2011-08-16T15:39:00Z
Celtic Show Their Class
Sandy Thin
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Celtic-Show-Their-Class/756377823959048632.html
2011-08-16T12:17:00Z
2011-08-16T12:17:00Z
<p>Celtic separated themselves as early favourites for the Scottish Premier League title as they thrashed Dundee United 5-1 to make it three wins out of three in the season’s opening fixtures.</p>
<p>The Boys got over the blow of losing Emilio Izaguirre to a broken ankle in emphatic style as they scored five goals in front of the home crowd, each goal coming from a different player. Anthony Stokes put them ahead early after some bad defending allowed the Irish forward to bag his third goal in three games; after a hit and miss season last year, Stokes looks to be a star player for the Glasgow side through the rest of this campaign.</p>
<p>However, just as United’s defence was at fault for the first goal, Celtic’s was at fault for the second. A messy headed clearance from Majstorovic lead to a mishit and misjudged shot from John Rankin which fortunately fell at the feet of Johnny Russell to tap into Celtic’s open goal. The goal was almost immediately nullified though as, despite a fantastic double save from United keeper Dusan Pernis, Gary Hooper nodded home to make it 2-1.</p>
<p>The fourth goal of the match came following a menacing run from Kris Commons ending with a perfectly placed through ball for Ki Sung-Yeung to connect with, driving it powerfully into the top corner. More brilliant build-up play lead to a fourth and then a fifth from Joe Ledley and James Forrest. Neil Lennon, who had returned to the sidelines after playing in a Celtic vs Manchester Utd Legends match earlier in the week in which Henrik Larsson returned to Celtic Park to score a hatrick in a 5-2 win, was delighted with his team’s performance.</p>
<p>Rangers once again managed to scrape a 2-0 victory over Inverness CT after two dubious second-half penalties were awarded, the first was put away nicely by Nikica Jelavic and the second was saved only to have the rebound slotted home by Maurice Edu, who was later sent off for a second bookable offence.</p>
<p>Elsewhere in the league, Paulo Sergio’s bright start as manager of Hearts continued as John Sutton scored a brace in a 3-0 victory over Aberdeen, who have still picked up only a point from their first four league games. Motherwell and Dunfermline also continued their bright starts to the season with 1-0 victories over St Mirren and St Johnstone respectively.</p>
<p>Hearts will look to continue their good run of form into Thursday’s Europa League clash with Tottenham at Tynecastle, where should they prevent the visitors from scoring more than a goal they should feel they have a small chance going into the return leg in London. Celtic and Rangers should not have a great deal of trouble against their opponents; however, it’s not uncommon for Scottish clubs to get knocked out of European qualifiers to far weaker opposition.</p>
<p>In transfer news, Celtic have turned to Craig Gordon to fill their goalkeeping place and look likely to confirm a season-long loan of the Scottish international sometime in the next week. While on the blue side of Glasgow, Rangers are looking to further their US links by signing US captain Carlos Bocanegra from St Etienne for a fee of around £500k.</p>
Sandy Thin
2011-08-16T12:17:00Z
WFD's Premier League Table Predictions
WFD Staff
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/WFDs-Premier-League-Table-Predictions/-393414641360697583.html
2011-08-16T01:48:00Z
2011-08-16T01:48:00Z
<strong>Kenny Hassan<br /></strong><br /><ol>
<li>Chelsea</li>
<li>Manchester United</li>
<li>Manchester City</li>
<li>Liverpool</li>
<li>Arsenal</li>
<li>Tottenham Hotspur</li>
<li>Everton</li>
<li>Aston Villa</li>
<li>Bolton Wanderers</li>
<li>Sunderland</li>
<li>Fulham</li>
<li>Stoke City</li>
<li>Newcastle United</li>
<li>West Bromwich Albion</li>
<li>Wolverhampton Wanderers</li>
<li>Norwich City</li>
<li>Queens Park Rangers</li>
<li>Wigan Athletic</li>
<li>Blackburn Rovers</li>
<li>Swansea City</li>
</ol><strong>Sophie Nicolaou<br /><br /></strong><ol>
<li>Manchester United</li>
<li>Chelsea</li>
<li>Arsenal</li>
<li>Manchester City</li>
<li>Everton</li>
<li>Tottenham Hotspur</li>
<li>Liverpool</li>
<li>Fulham</li>
<li>Sunderland </li>
<li>Stoke City</li>
<li>Aston Villa</li>
<li>West Bromwich Albion</li>
<li>Bolton Wanderers</li>
<li>Newcastle United</li>
<li>Queens Park Rangers</li>
<li>Swansea City</li>
<li>Wolverhampton Wanderers</li>
<li>Wigan Athletic</li>
<li>Blackburn Rovers</li>
<li>Norwich City</li>
</ol><strong>Robert Burns<br /><br /></strong><ol>
<li>Manchester United</li>
<li>Manchester City</li>
<li>Chelsea</li>
<li>Liverpool </li>
<li>Arsenal</li>
<li>Everton</li>
<li>Tottenham Hotspur</li>
<li>Newcastle United</li>
<li>Aston Villa</li>
<li>Fulham</li>
<li>West Bromwich Albion</li>
<li>Sunderland </li>
<li>Bolton Wanderers</li>
<li>Stoke City</li>
<li>Swansea City</li>
<li>Blackburn Rovers</li>
<li>Queens Park Rangers</li>
<li>Wolverhampton Wanderers</li>
<li>Norwich City</li>
<li>Wigan Athletic</li>
</ol><strong><br />Rafael Gonzales<br /><br /></strong><ol>
<li>Chelsea</li>
<li>Manchester United</li>
<li>Manchester City</li>
<li>Arsenal</li>
<li>Liverpool</li>
<li>Tottenham Hotspur</li>
<li>Everton</li>
<li>Aston Villa</li>
<li>Newcastle United</li>
<li>Fulham</li>
<li>Bolton Wanderers</li>
<li>Blackburn Rovers</li>
<li>Sunderland</li>
<li>Queens Park Rangers</li>
<li>West Bromwich Albion</li>
<li>Stoke City</li>
<li>Wigan Athletic</li>
<li>Norwich City</li>
<li>Wolverhampton Wanderers </li>
<li>Swansea City</li>
</ol><strong><br />James Cranford<br /><br /></strong><ol>
<li>Chelsea</li>
<li>Manchester United</li>
<li>Manchester City</li>
<li>Arsenal</li>
<li>Tottenham Hotspur</li>
<li>Liverpool</li>
<li>Everton</li>
<li>Aston Villa</li>
<li>Newcastle United</li>
<li>Sunderland</li>
<li>Bolton Wanderers</li>
<li>Stoke City</li>
<li>Fulham</li>
<li>West Bromwich Albion</li>
<li>Norwich City</li>
<li>Queens Park Rangers</li>
<li>Wolverhampton Wandereres</li>
<li>Blackburn Rovers</li>
<li>Wigan Athletic</li>
<li>Swansea City</li>
</ol><strong><br />Casey Keirnan<br /><br /></strong><ol>
<li>Arsenal</li>
<li>Chelsea</li>
<li>Manchester United</li>
<li>Manchester City</li>
<li>Liverpool</li>
<li>Tottenham Hotspur</li>
<li>Everton</li>
<li>Fulham </li>
<li>Aston Villa</li>
<li>Bolton Wanderers</li>
<li>Newcastle United</li>
<li>Wigan Athletic</li>
<li>Stoke City</li>
<li>West Bromwich Albion</li>
<li>Sunderland</li>
<li>Blackburn Rovers</li>
<li>Queens Park Rangers</li>
<li>Swansea City</li>
<li>Wolverhampton Wandereres </li>
<li>Norwich City</li>
</ol><strong>Mark Henty<br /></strong><ol>
<li>Manchester United</li>
<li>Manchester City</li>
<li>Chelsea</li>
<li>Arsenal</li>
<li>Liverpool</li>
<li>Tottenham Hotspur</li>
<li>Everton</li>
<li>Newcastle United</li>
<li>Sunderland</li>
<li>Aston Villa</li>
<li>Bolton Wanderers</li>
<li>Stoke City</li>
<li>West Bromwich Albion</li>
<li>Fulham</li>
<li>Blackburn Rovers</li>
<li>Wolverhampton Wanderers</li>
<li>Queens Park Rangers</li>
<li>Norwich City</li>
<li>Wigan Athletic</li>
<li>Swansea City</li>
</ol>
WFD Staff
2011-08-16T01:48:00Z
Patience is the game, Dalgleish's the name.
Nash Larson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Patience-is-the-game,-Dalgleishs-the-name./173960262171110460.html
2011-08-15T19:40:00Z
2011-08-15T19:40:00Z
<p><br />mmmm…. the smell of promise, cut short like buns toasting in the oven pulled prematurely from their toasty creation, somewhat resembled Liverpool's opener against Sunderland. All the gyp seemed justified until Liverpool's first half dominance was quickly forgotten after being done by a top drawer volley off the boot of Sunderland's Seb Larsson. If you are to lose, that is the way to do it. I say lose even thought the final score read 1-1, but for the Anfield club it was a loss. All the excitement of the coming season and big money signings created a stir of hope and promise, that due to the result has been put on hold. Seen in the fantastic reception received by the fans for the opening of the 2011-12 EPL season. </p>
<p>In the first half Liverpool looked to have jet-heeled enthusiasm, spraying passes around and retaining possession well. Luis Suarez looked to have not skipped a beat on the back of his fantastic half season for Liverpool, and a Copa America, earning a penalty which he thrashed over the bar. However this was quickly forgotten when he nodded in a cross at the front post from fellow new-boy Charlie Adam, to make it 1-0. Newboy's Charlie Adam, and Jordan Henderson - playing against his old side - looked good in the first period, and in collaboration with Lucas bossed the likes of Lee Cattermole and young Jack Colback. Taking into account the abundance of midfielders at Dalgleish's disposal, bringing on the likes of Raul Miereles in the 2nd-half should provide sustained midfield domination for the whole 90, but Sunderland clawed their way back in to contention.</p>
<p>As the whistle sounded for the break, Liverpool had felt that they should have been at least 2 to the good, after a mazy run from Downing, saw him cut onto his left but his shot riffled of the crossbar. On the whole Downing was docile in the game, but the added width was an improvement, and the balls into the box from Downing and Adam look to pay dividends in the future. </p>
<p>The impotence in Liverpool's play subsided, and the crowds fanfare dwindled as their grip on the game loosened. Sunderland still struggled to trouble Reina in goal, until a ferocious volley changed this and Seb Larsson finished in fantastic style, hitting it first-time at the back post. Reina had no chance, as the Swede who signed on a free from Birmingham scored on his debut. This was the last significant chance for either side as the game petered out towards its climax. </p>
<p>Liverpool should feel as though the game was theirs to take, with a massive home support behind them, and the excitement of what could be in the upcoming season. We all recognize that the Dalgleish dynasty will take time to build, but an opening fixture win was necessary. You cannot pull much from the first match but the doubters will voice their opinion using this as proof that a top-4 finish will not be in the cards for the Merseyside club.</p>
<p><strong>Promising features:</strong></p>
<p>Newest signing of the bunch Jose Enrique was cast into the fire, after only completing one full training session with the club, making his debut against Sunderland. The Spaniard had a decent game, getting caught out a couple of times, but overall slotted in quite well with Liverpool's back-line. Had limited forward forays but linked up well with midfield anchors and Downing on the wing. </p>
<p>Suarez looked up to his old shenanigans, thought his energy levels drained towards the end of the match, fitting of the amount of football he has played this summer.</p>
<p>Andy Carroll, though predominately anonymous, linked decently, with on-running players. Ferdinand, had him in his pocket for most of the game, but his ability to find space to get his ponytailed head on the ball was un-canny. </p>
<p><strong>Troublesome features:</strong></p>
<p>With the return of Steven Gerrard looming like an ominous shadow, Dalgleish has to find where to play the no. 8. Will he play him behind Carroll, pushing Suarez out onto the wing? Will he start him in the place of Henderson? Will he have deeper role next to Lucas. The uncertainty is worrisome, but a player of Gerrard's stature must play, even thought during his injury last season Liverpool played some of their best football. </p>
<p>Conceding goals was a feature in their pre-season fixtures, and although it took a piece of brilliant skill to undo them Saturday, the threat is still there. Young Flannigan had a difficult game in the right-back spot beaten to easily by Ji-Dong Won and Larsson.</p>
<p>Patience is Key for Dalgleish and Co. and like said in his post match interview, more is expected of his players. His new signings will take time to settle into the idiosyncrasies of Anfield, and when the team faces Arsenal next weekend it should be on. </p>
See more at <a href="/spotkickjournalism.blogspot.com">spotkickjournalism.blogspot.com</a>
Nash Larson
2011-08-15T19:40:00Z
Round 1 - The Gloves Are Off, But No Decision Yet!
A.J. Nelson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Round-1---The-Gloves-Are-Off,-But-No-Decision-Yet!/-480301021118695781.html
2011-08-15T18:08:00Z
2011-08-15T18:08:00Z
<p>Ecstasy! Agony! Strength! Will! Speed! Tension! Desire! Drama! Controversy! But over-hyped? I don’t think so. The beautiful game’s biggest rivalry didn’t disappoint in Round 1 of the Spanish Super Cup. As Placido Domingo rang throughout the Santiago Bernabéu before the start of the game, one couldn’t help but smile knowing what was likely to come.</p>
<p>Both teams fielded strong starting lineups. On paper, Real Madrid appeared to have the advantage due to injuries on Barcelona’s part. Madrid’s starting eleven was a lineup that one would suspect will be José Mourinho’s core: Cristiano Ronaldo, Karim Benzema, Xabi Alonso, Mesut Özil, Ángel Di María, Marcelo, Sami Khedira, Pepe, Carvalho, Sergio Ramos and Iker Casillas. Barcelona had to leave Xavi, Sergio Busquets, Gerard Pique and Carlos Puyol on the sidelines to start. Regardless, they brought some heat with them: Lionel Messi, David Villa, Dani Alves, Andres Iniesta, Eric Abidal, Seydou Keita, Javier Mascherano, Victor Valdes, Adriano, Alexis Sánchez and Thiago Alcântara.</p>
<p>It took less than 2 minutes for Benzema to show why he was the top goal scorer in the preseason. Abidal’s body was the only barrier between the Frenchman’s strike and the back of Barcelona’s net. Uncharacteristic missed passes and poor timing by Barcelona gave Madrid an edge in possession and a pass from Ronaldo to Benzema created another golden chance for Los Blancos in the 8<sup>th</sup> minute. An alert Valdes kept the ball out, but if Benzema’s header had a fraction more pace and accuracy, he would have opened the scoring for Madrid. A follow up corner gave Ramos a chance at finding the back of the net, but a deflection off Mascherano kept another strong strike out. In the 12<sup>th</sup> minute, however, a steal by Ramos and a pass to Di María sprung Benzema, and some fancy footwork against Abidal combined with a perfect pass to Özil finally sealed the deal. Madrid was on the scoreboard first.</p>
<p>At the 20 minute mark Barcelona fans were beginning to wonder if Villa and Messi were even on the pitch. The look on Pep Guardiola’s face confirmed suspicions that he was concerned about the dominance by Real Madrid at the start of the game. A quick flash of brilliance at the 25<sup>th</sup> minute reminded us all how quickly Barcelona can land a blow. A pass from Messi to Villa gave the fans a gasp-worthy perfect strike and the game was level. Iker Casillas may have seen it coming, but was powerless to stop it. El Clásico was on!</p>
<p>Although Madrid continued their dominance of possession, Barcelona’s goal caused a shift in momentum. A foul by Marcelo (and a subsequent lapse in defense by Khedira and Pepe) and Messi made them pay. Casillas and Messi, two of the best in the world, went one on one and Casillas would blink first. Barcelona would take the lead, only moments before the half.</p>
<p>The teams came out fighting in the second half. Barcelona was looking to increase their lead and Madrid was looking to shut them down and retake control. Fouls increased exponentially and questions were raised with every touch. Was it a foul or a dive? Intentional or not? Only the players themselves know. With every minute that passed, the game intensified. In the 52<sup>nd</sup> minute, only strong defending by Alves could match the speed of Ronaldo and a corner was given to Madrid. During the resulting play, awareness by Pepe led to a stellar strike by Xabi Alonso past multiple defenders to tie the game up.</p>
<p>Anyone not paying attention in the first half was awake by the 54<sup>th</sup> minute. A yellow for a hand ball on Barcelona, a free kick by Xabi Alonso that Valdes missed entirely (and was lucky to not see it find the back of the net) followed by a strong foul by Pepe against Alves and this “preseason friendly” competition became a real battle.</p>
<p>Chances would be close (really close!), fouls would continue to be made and substitutions would occur: Di María for Coenträo, Xavi for Thiago, Callejon for Khedira, Pique for Adriano, Higuain for Benzema, and Pedro for Villa, but when all was said and done, these two great teams found themselves level. Man of the match would have to go to Mesut Özil, closely followed by Karim Benzema. In a fierce battle, both worked tirelessly to create chances and score goals. Against a weaker team or a less experienced keeper, we would have witnessed a complete rout by Real Madrid, but they weren’t playing a lesser team, they were playing their arch rivals.</p>
<p>Round 2 of the Spanish Super Cup coming up on Wednesday night will give everyone just enough time to catch their breath. Advantage is with Barcelona playing at the Camp Nou, but as Sunday’s game evidenced, you can never discount either of these teams. If Round 1 was any indication, Round 2 will be fierce. According to Cristiano Ronaldo, “Wednesday will be an open game, but we are confident we can win.” Regardless, someone will be delivering a knock out punch and lifting the trophy and it will be a spectacular match to watch.<br /><br /><em>A.J. Nelson can also be found on Twitter @FootieObsessed</em></p>
A.J. Nelson
2011-08-15T18:08:00Z
Note to the Good Squad...Looks like Cesc is worth £35m. Shocking!
Stephen Kuzner
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Note-to-the-Good-Squad...Looks-like-Cesc-is-worth-£35m.-Shocking!/-864704163516656820.html
2011-08-15T16:24:00Z
2011-08-15T16:24:00Z
<span style="font-size: 9pt;">It seems that all will be said and done within hours or minutes that Cesc Fàbregas will be transfer from Arsenal to Barcelona for a grand total of total of £35m. He can’t be worth that…right? How much is Cesc really worth? That is the million dollar, I mean Euro, or do I mean Pound question. Let’s take a look at this in purely <strong> <span>business terms</span></strong>; not in sporting terms, moralistic right and wrong terms, or personal pride. Before I get going on this ever so touchy subject, let me give my credentials. I have hired 500+ people in my career up to the C-Level for large organizations and been trained in sports player compensation negotiation by a leading sports agent negotiations institute.<br /> <br /> Cesc is worth £35m. That’s it.<br /> <br /> Like last summer, Barça does not really need him. In reality, Cesc is a luxury to Barcelona. In terms of debt, Barça is like a homeowner being upside down in their home looking to get a home equity loan to add and addition to the house. Xavi and Iniesta should be fine for another year and Keita and Tiago provide plenty of depth. Cesc is want more so than an immediate need. Tiago is probably the long term answer. He really did well this summer in the U20’s for Spain completing a Xavi-esque 120 passes per 90 minutes. A team with the debt that Barça has can’t go breaking the bank, thus...<br /> <br /> Barça isn’t buying Cesc unless it’s a deal or even (gasp) a bargain.<br /> <br /> There also are market forces at play that diminish his value. (gasp again) Yes, the market has reduced his value. That can’t be right you say. Look at all the signings in the EPL of your English players and superstars at Manchester City. Problem is, they are outliers that have left people scratching their heads. They don’t raise the value of players across the board. In reality there is no true “macro market value” of football players. There may be precedents, but Andy Carroll’s transfer doesn’t raise Cesc’s value. Also, take out Real Madrid’s bid earlier this summer for Cesc that was an attempt to raise the price tag to Barça. Why?<br /> <br /> The market for Cesc is only one team…that is Barça.<br /> <br /> Cesc doesn’t want to go anywhere, but Barça. Thus, Barça is the entire market for Cesc. We are talking about micro economics here, not macro economics. This is one on one negotiating between two clubs. What Barça is willing to pay is Cesc’s value on the market. Ouch! That smarts if you are a Gooner. What’s worse, Cesc seems to be fully unsettled. Further micro market-wise, Cesc’s performance in the EPL last year and injuries also would drop his worth to Barça, compared to a year ago coming off the world cup. Going even further, contractually his value diminishes every year he moves closer to moving on a free transfer.<br /> <br /> Diminishing returns?<br /> <br /> Huh? What does that mean? People seem confused about this law of diminishing returns. Simply, it means this: the moment you sign a player is when you’d be able to sell them for the highest transfer fee (all other things being equal) because…well…you just signed them, and at the end of their contract they bring you nothing because they can move on a free transfer.<br /> <br /> What is Arsenal’s opportunity cost of not selling Cesc?<br /> <br /> My biggest fear for Arsenal is that this whole saga has made them appear to world class players as not a destination club. It’s taken their captain two years, who’s appeared politely unsettled, to get a transfer done back to his boyhood club after giving Arsenal 7+ years of service. Keeping him further would really ruin the locker room and make the club less attractive to the level of players it needs to sign to compete in the Champions League and EPL year in and year out. The €5-15 that the club has been fighting over with Barça is probably less than the damage done in terms of talent acquisition public relations. Heck, say hypothetically, Arsenal holds out even longer and got €60 for Cesc before the transfer window, would that make it better? No. €60 is useless if you can’t sign players because they’re afraid you won’t let them leave when they want to.<br /> <br /> Is what Barça did unethical?<br /> <br /> This can’t be answered beyond business. Is it unethical for Company A to recruit Company B’s top salesperson or widget maker? No, it’s called business. In football it’s called tapping-up and almost impossible to prove. I’d be a fool not to this some sort of tapping-up occurred. Everyone seems beyond that now though, and the major grievance seems to be that Barça is raking Arsenal over the coals to get a bargain. Is a transfer of £35m for a player, that Arsenal got for next to nothing seven years ago, raking a club over the coals? Hardly. At the end of the day, that’s €40 form a club that shouldn’t be spending €40 for any one player.<br /> <em><br /> <em><span>Stephen Kuzner is a Baltimore-based Blogger for WorldFootballDaily</span></em></em></span>
Stephen Kuzner
2011-08-15T16:24:00Z
Reactions and Reflections: Stoke vs Chelsea (BPL)
Lamin Oo
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Reactions-and-Reflections:-Stoke-vs-Chelsea-BPL/-751081090095030040.html
2011-08-15T16:07:00Z
2011-08-15T16:07:00Z
<p>Andre Villas-Boas did not get a perfect introduction to the Premier League as Chelsea were held to a goalless draw by Stoke. Chelsea struggled to take hold of the game in the first half. Not conceding a goal going into half time could be considered an achievement since Stoke put Chelsea under immense pressure from set piece situations. We dominated the second half and created a number of good goal scoring opportunities but failed to score. Two of our best chances of the game were Anelka's chip from the right and Mikel's rocket from outside the box -- both of which were tipped over the bar by the brilliant Asmir Begovic*.</p>
<p>This is not the ideal result for Chelsea but there were some promising signs both in attack and in defense. Here are some thoughts on the game.</p>
<p><strong><em>There's No Flying Without Width?</em></strong></p>
<p>Chelsea's lack of width last season has been discussed at length by pundits and armchair football fans alike. Carlo Ancelotti employed Malouda and Anelka on the wings but asked them to tuck to the middle as much as possible, which turns the formation into a 4-3-2-1 (The Christmas Tree), with the full backs providing the width. When it worked, <a href="http://www.zonalmarking.net/2010/04/03/man-united-1-2-chelsea-tactics-anelka-drogba-strikers/">it was brilliant</a>. But when it didn't, it got too crowded in the middle. It is one of Villas-Boas' jobs this season to try to solve that problem.</p>
<p>I have noted before that <a href="http://carefreechronicles.blogspot.com/2011/08/chelsea-pre-season-review-2011.html">Villas-Boas likes his 4-3-3 to have 3 forwards, not just one central striker with two "wingers"</a>. Against Stoke, he started Malouda (left) and Kalou (right) flanking Torres in the center forward position. Malouda provided a lot of width on the left but Kalou tucked into the middle and played almost like a second striker.</p>
<p><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/StkFormation.jpg" alt="" /><br />We, Chelsea fans, may be new to this approach but it is not the first time that Villas-Boas has used it. When Porto beat Benfica 2-1 away from home to clinch the league title, <a href="http://www.zonalmarking.net/2011/04/04/benfica-1-2-porto-tactics/">Villas-Boas played Hulk on the right as a second striker while Varela provided width on the left</a>.</p>
<p>Was it the right tactics to deploy against Stoke? I think so. But our execution was poor. I don't pretend to know the inner workings of Villas-Boas's mind but here is how I understand his approach. Stoke plays with 4 giant defenders (all over 6 feet) in the back. If Chelsea were to try play through wide positions and whip crosses into the middle, Stoke defenders would have easily dealt with them. So it is understandable that Chelsea wanted to keep the ball on the ground and play through the middle.</p>
<p>If the advantage of having big defenders as the back four is the ability to effectively deal with high crosses, then the disadvantage of the same situation is that these big defenders are slower and much easier to be exposed by a faster and more skillful players. Theoretically, Kalou should have an easier time beating the defender on the right and either put in a low cross/cut-back for Torres and forward-running midfielders, like Lampard and Ramires, or take a shot at goal himself. But he failed to do either. It is unfortunate that Sturridge has to sit out because of the three-game ban because he would have been perfect for this scenario. <a href="http://carefreechronicles.blogspot.com/2011/08/chelsea-pre-season-review-2011.html">Sturridge has been executing that role with great success during the pre-season</a>. We missed you badly, Daniel!</p>
<p>Those who were providing width in this game, Malouda, Cole and Bosingwa, also did not do any favors. All three of them combined produced exactly zero successful crosses in this game.</p>
<p><strong><em>Dealing With The Delap-atador<br /><br /><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Stoke-Citys-Rory-Delap-pr-001.jpg" alt="" /> </em></strong></p>
<p>Over the past few seasons, if there is one thing that makes Stoke City stand out in the Premier League, it is Rory Delap's long throw-ins that most defenses have found hard to deal with. These throws are dangerous not only because they are so powerful, but also because Stoke, as I have mentioned above, has great physical presence in the box.</p>
<p>Chelsea, and Petr Cech in particular, dealt very well with this threat. Instead of staying on the goal line and getting ready to come out to punch/grab the ball, the Chelsea goalkeeper stood right up against Stoke's Ryan Shawcross near the edge of the 6 yard box. I don't know who is responsible for this positioning technique but it is genius. We all know that goalkeepers usually get the benefit of the doubt when it comes to pushing and shoving in the penalty box. So, Cech either picked the ball off the air before it gets to a Stoke player or got a foul off of Shawcross as the giant defender moved around in the box. This was how Chelsea successfully defended Delap's throw ins in the first half. Petr Cech drew 3 fouls in this game, as much as Chelsea striker Torres, who was constantly shoved and kicked by Stoke defenders, did.</p>
<p><strong><em>The "Attacking" Midfielders</em></strong> </p>
<p>One of the most telling statistics that came out of this game is the number of shots on goal (SOG) that Lampard and Ramires were able to muster -- ZERO. Playing in the two advance positions of the inverted triangle in the midfield, both of them had the freedom to run forward and to get involved with the attack. But as the SOG statistics show, neither of them were able to create enough space to test the Stoke goalkeeper. Ramires did take two shots but they were both off target.</p>
<p>To be fair, Ramires had a lively game down the right hand side, mainly because, as I have said above, Kalou was tucking into the middle more. Lampard also made a couple of good runs; his overlapping run behind Anelka drew away one defender and allowed the French man to execute his outrageous chip. But this is hardly enough if we want to dominate opponents and win games. I don't think it is solely their fault because their games are affected by how their teammates played but this is an aspect of Chelsea's game that needs improvement in the future.</p>
<p><strong><em>Man of the Match<br /><br /><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/JOM.jpg" alt="" /> </em></strong></p>
<p>John Obi Mikel is my MOTM in this game. Aside from a couple of miss passes, Mikel held his ground well in the defensive midfield position. He won 3 tackles (only 1 behind John Terry) and 6 interceptions (more than any Chelsea players). Mikel's presence in front of the back four prevented most of Stoke's attacking threats; Stoke City had only 1 shot on target in this game. What's more, he was able to get a shot on target unlike his attacking midfield counter parts. He ripped a dipping shot from outside the box; only an acrobatic save from Begovic* prevented the Nigerian international from getting on the score sheet and win the game for Chelsea. His performance in the game is the more impressive now that we know about his dad's disappearance. <a href="http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/944049/chelsea-midfielder-john-obi-mikel's-father-missing-in-nigeria?cc=5901">Mikel was informed on Saturday that his dad has not come back from work on Friday</a>. We all pray for you, Mikel, and we hope your dad will return home safely.</p>
<p>The much improved Fernando Torres, who almost looked like his old goal-scoring-self, gets an honorable mention as one of the better Chelsea players in this game. The Spanish striker would have scored or at least gotten more chances if he has had better support both from his "wingers" and the midfielders.</p>
<p><strong><em>The Take Away</em></strong></p>
<p>I will just quote the manager for the conclusion:</p>
<blockquote>
<p>"I couldn't be pleased with a point but it is one of the most difficult grounds to play away from home" (<a href="http://www.chelseafc.com/page/LatestNews/0,,10268~2420161,00.html">Source</a>)</p>
</blockquote>
<p> * * *</p>
<p>* The great performance that Asmir Begovic has displayed in this game makes me think about our own goalkeeping situation. <a href="http://carefreechronicles.blogspot.com/2011/07/reactions-and-reflections-portsmouth-vs.html">Hilario and Turnbull are not the most reliable back ups to Cech</a>. And Thibaut Courtois is not going to be ready soon. <a href="http://www.guardian.co.uk/football/2010/aug/09/chelsea-asmir-begovic">Chelsea has previously targeted Begovic</a> but the deal did not go through. He would have been (and could still be) a great back up for Cech. Just a thought.</p>
<p>What do you make of the game? Are you pleased or disappointed? Where can Chelsea improve to get the job done?</p>
<p><span style="font-family: inherit;"><em><span style="color: #000000;"><br />Carefree, wherever you may be...</span></em></span> </p>
<div>
<p><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #000000;">You can follow me on Twitter </span><a href="http://www.twitter.com/carefreechronic">@CareFreeChronic</a><span style="color: #000000;">.</span></span></p>
</div>
<div>
<p><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #000000;">You can also read my posts on </span><a href="/carefreechronicles.blogspot.com">my blog</a> and<span style="color: #000000;"> </span><a href="http://bluetinted.com/">BlueTinted.com</a></span><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">.</span></span></p>
</div>
Lamin Oo
2011-08-15T16:07:00Z
Up And Out Of The Gate!!!
Brendan Morris
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Up-And-Out-Of-The-Gate!!!/474995124297946031.html
2011-08-15T05:28:00Z
2011-08-15T05:28:00Z
Ah yes, that magical time is upon us again. That time that reinvigorates, reignites passions, amps up the highs and the bittersweet lows, gives us a reason to get up early on the weekends and bloody smile while we do it. That's right, folks, it's the dawn of a fresh Barclays Premier League season, and the start of the Red Devil's campaign for a further record-setting 20th league title. Rapture my friends, thy name is footy.<br /><br />Today's season opener for the Reds found us traveling to the Hawthornes to take on West Bromwich Albion. Managed by Roy Hodgson who quite impressively whipped them into fantastic shape since his mid season arrival last term, the Baggies are also boosted by the recent signing of Shane Long from Reading. Long is a solid striker who's paid his dues in the Championship and should add a significant and much needed goal threat to the West Brom squad. Something we'd find out first hand in this game as it turned out.<br /><br />United put out a strong lineup that was very much based on the success in the Community Shield, including the likes of up and comers Cleverley, Smalling, and Welbeck, and just like in that match the squad shined right from the start. Our possession was dominant, and we've continued that absolutely gorgeous intricate passing game that gave us the one over on City last week. The usual suspects, Rooney, Young, and Nani, were leading the charge with this attack and they were wonderfully supported by Cleverley playing a decidedly Scholesy kind of role. It paid dividends quite quickly when Ashley Young provided a clever pass to Rooney just inside the box who then, with his back to goal, took a great turn and easily slotted a low roller past WBA keeper Ben Foster in the 13th minute. It was well deserved after our constant early pressure, and particularly satisfying after Welbeck frustratingly missed a sitter right in front of goal very early on.<br /><br />The brilliant build up and dominance continued, and we should've put the game to bed by about the 25th minute if not for Nani squandering consecutive chances by putting 2 absolutely gloriously plaed balls over the bar. As much as I hate to say it, it simply seems to be the curse of our sublimely talented Portuguese winger where he's positively brilliant one week and incredibly frustrating the next. Admittedly he's worked hard to cut down this factor, last season especially, but it still no doubt tends to rear it's ugly head hear and there. Let's completely destroy the dreaded "N" factor this season Nani! We're all pullin' for ya!!!<br /><br />Out of the clear blue in the 37th minute it all went a bit pear shaped for a moment when the previously mentioned Long received the ball outside the box on the far left side, and puts his own low roller past David de Gea. It seemed to stun our new Spanish keeper quite a bit as he hesitated a second too long before his dive and just missed putting a glove to it. Now, should he have saved that shot? Yes, he most probably should have. I'm not going to say every keeper in the league could have, but Manchester United's number 1 should be getting those every time. However, I'm not going to string the kid up like many a pundit, including FSC's perennial know nothing blow hard Warren Barton would do (my intense dislike for that man warrants an entire article in and of itself), but I will say that the boy needs to do better, and I have the absolute belief and confidence that he will. In my opinion he is in the top 5 percentile of the game's keepers in his current form, and given some further top level coaching, strength training, and confidence he could well be the best in the world. Let's not forget he's all of 20 years old. The sky's the limit with that one.<br /><br />The second half delivered more of the same from United, albeit we lost a bit of momentum. Many chances were created and squandered, and to be fair WBA created their fair share of chances as well. Rooney in particular seemed a bit off his game, and Danny Welbeck was rightly subbed off in the 65tth minute after having little to no impact on the game. <br /><br />Dimitar Berbatov replaced the young Englishman and had a pretty good substitute appearance from a player who, although he is brilliant, is typically not the greatest of substitutes. He usually needs to start a game to be able to fully wrap his "Berba magic" around it, but he did a fine job of it in the 25 minutes he got. He never did receive much in the way of service in front of goal, but he was integral in several attack build ups with a mix up of one touch passes and back heels, and he also made the final pass to Ashley Young for what turned out to be the winning goal in the 78th. Young, after receiving said ball on the far left of the box, he then made a dash forward and put a rocket of a strike from a very tight angle into the net. The goal, very cruelly I felt, was ruled as an own goal due to a deflection coming off of WBA defender Reid. The ball appeared to be heading for the net anyway, and the defender couldn't have possibly done anything to avoid a ball with so much on it. It will always be rememberd as Ashley Young's first United goal for me anyway.<br /><br />Both sides had a few more chances in the closing minutes, but the Red Devils held on for a very much deserved win. A fantastic start to the season with the 3 points, but they definitely came at a high cost. Vidic and Rio both suffered injuries, Vida being sidelined for 2 weeks and Rio for 6. They join Rafael who was already injured with a dislocated shoulder and expected out for 10 weeks. This, sadly, has shades of the injury crisis of '09-'10 but I'm not nearly as worried. Evra will return next week, and we've got stellar back-ups in the shapes of Jones and Smalling. Smalling has been better by the day ever since he joined the club, and Jones looks like an absolutely top drawer signing already. We're going to be just fine. <br /><br />Better than fine actually when you consider how formidable and efficient our attacking line has been. In these last 2 games they almost look an entirely different team from last season, and that's saying something as last season we took the title by 9 points. It does however lead me to another point. With this unbelievably fantastic, intricate passing game we are employing in our attack in both the 'Shield and today's match, I feel like we should be putting away a lot more of our chances created by that kind of build up play. While Rooney is always going to score goals regardless, his deep lying style isn't always (now don't slam me over this, I didn't say never. Just not always) suited to this kind of play and Welbeck and Chicharito for that matter aren't exactly finesse strikers. Hmmm....<br /><br />Fortunately we do have exactly that player! Imagine that! What luck!! I'll give you a hint, he earned himself the Golden Boot last season tied with Carlos "I'm never bloody happy or grateful anywher and six of my goals were penalties" Tevez, and was quite ridiculously left off the CL final bench in lieu of Michael Owen and 16 or so midfielders who were never going to play anyway. That's right! You guessed it! Our very own Dimitar Berbatov!!! Now, I'm not at all interested in sparking the endless and stupid Berbatov debate here. I myself am a big, big fan of our slick Bulgarian but that's all beside the point. The point is that one of the man's greatest strengths that I'm pretty sure nobody argues about is his insanely good first touch and otherworldly ability to shake off defenders and score goals using that incredible vision and control in tight spaces. He's made for this style of attack and I think it's quite strange he's not been used much at all within it. Yes, yes, I know it's only been 2 games, one of which was essentially meaningless, I'm simply just anxious to see us reap the utmost benefits from this new found attack. <br /><br />What I do think is quite a solid possibility this term is a return to a regular rotation of strikers, not unlike the policy that was employed during the '99 treble winning season. Wayne Rooney, of course, will likely be exempt from such a policy but I think making regular changes between Berba, Hernandez, Owen, and Welbeck/Macheda could be a very successful and positive thing. I am well aware that most readers and fans are going to scream, yell, and call me crazy for saying that Hernandez should not be an automatic starter for EVERY game, but I just think a rotation policy is particularly effective when you have not only such a wealth of talent, but very different kinds of strike talent. All action Hernandez, Berba the magician, Owen the old school poacher, and our hot rod youngsters all deserve some ample playing time as they could all fantastically play their respective parts in attaining that 20th title.<br /><br />Thanks for reading folks, and I greatly look forward to doing so much more for this blog I'm so deeply privileged to write for the greatest footy podcast on the planet. I've also got a piece brewing on the whole Sneijder will we, won't we, or do we really need him anyway saga so keep an eye out for that in the next couple of days too, though that may well depend on what happens between now and then the way this thing has been going.<br /><br />Glory Glory
Brendan Morris
2011-08-15T05:28:00Z
Silly Summer
Stephen Salerno
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Silly-Summer/-306885634621579880.html
2011-08-15T05:22:00Z
2011-08-15T05:22:00Z
<p><strong>The silly season was in full effect for the bianconeri this summer being linked to everyone and their mother. The summer started with the ambitions of signing the Argentine Sergio Aguero. He was off playing in the Copa America and would not make a transfer decision until the competition was finished. Leaving Juventus’ other striker target, Giuseppe Rossi feeling like the brunette at the bar you attempted to pick up after the blonde turns you away. Instead of being in bed with the brunette you are going home with the red head in this case that red head is the Mirko Vucinic. At least the party was not a waste. You get it in and as my Chinese friend once told me you must slay some dragons before you can get to the princess. Vucinic will be a good role player for Juventus, possibly fill the void on the left flank that is waiting for the return of Nedved, who can only look on as his old flank is filled by a player who is out of position. Bastros or Vargas has been tipped to join to fill the gap but it seems unlikely. I would like to see Conte give the youngsters a shot. Cristian Pasquato scored a good goal against América. With the addition of Vidal in the midfield, Juventus can control the center of the pitch allowing Krasic to do what he does best, causing problems on the right flank. I hope Conte has the swagger the new pink shirts imply. This year Juventus need to be bold. Without European football the old lady should be at the top of the table. </strong></p>
<p><strong>The strike forces of Matri and Quagliarella, if they stay fit, will be worth fifteen goals each this season. With Del Piero super subbing, I do not think Juventus will have a problem putting the ball in the net. So the attention shifts the back line. Chiellini need to be back in the center. He is the rock the holds the back line together he is not an outside back. Right back with the likes of Stephan Lichsteiner and Frederik Sorensen will be strong. I am really keen on Sorensen. The young Dane impressed me on most occasions. He is still inexperanced but with a player like Lichsteiner to learn from think he is the future and should see time on the pitch this season. Left back is more of an issue for me. I love to see the pace of De Ceglie getting forward making problems for the opposition but he lacks the experience. This is where Reto Ziegler comes in. He can score goals and get forward. He could even take care of the left wing if Conte made it so. Now only leaving the middle of defense. It has to be Bonucci and Chiellni with Barzagli coming in when he is called upon. For me, there is no other choice.</strong></p>
<p><strong> </strong></p>
<p><strong>My starting 11 for Juventus</strong></p>
<p><strong>------------Matri---Quagliarella--------------</strong></p>
<p><strong>Pasquato---Marchisio----Pirlo-----Krasic</strong></p>
<p><strong>Ziegler---Chiellini---Bonucci----Lichtsteiner </strong></p>
<p><strong>This was more difficult than I thought. Juventus has some depth. The main thing I am missing is a true ball winner in the center of midfield. This is where Vidal and his work rate will come play but who do you replace? Pirlo is going to pull the strings and Marchisio bleeds black and white. I am picking Pasquato to have a break out year. He is a youngster who has the pace and the energy to complement Krasic. <br /></strong></p>
<p><strong>Let see if Juventus can make a return to its former glory. <br /></strong></p>
Stephen Salerno
2011-08-15T05:22:00Z
Aston Villa defend their way to goalless draw with Fulham
John Meyerwitz
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Aston-Villa-defend-their-way-to-goalless-draw-with-Fulham/649610191082114862.html
2011-08-13T22:30:00Z
2011-08-13T22:30:00Z
The Alex McLeish era at Aston Villa began today with an uninspiring nil-nil draw at Fulham.<br /><br />Seemingly the entire Holte End made the journey to Craven Cottage for the opening fixture, but all of their sound and fury could not prod the Villan's away from their dull tactics and poor passing in the final third.<br /><br />Darren Bent’s service was less than adequate from Charles N’Zogbia, who had a poor debut that lasted only 66 minutes. Hopefully, Bent can chuckle at the irony that his transfer fee had to be recouped during the summer through the departures of his top service providers Ashley Young and, especially, Stewart Downing (to Manchester United and Liverpool, respectively). One wonders what owner Randy Lerner may spend this winter that will result in a summer clearance of Bent and others.<br /><br />On the positive side, new signing Shay Given certainly came through where N’Zogbia failed, with quality saves on close range efforts from Andy Johnson and Bobby Zamora. One wonders, however, if his signing is really just a neutral move after the departure of Brad Friedel to Tottenham. <br /><br />Emile Heskey, ordinarily as mobile as a telephone booth and more out of date, looked spry in the first half, nearly coming up with a scrappy goal and making a key block at the other end. <br /><br />Marc Albrighton briefly injected some pace for Villa after replacing N’Zogbia, but his sole effort on goal was off the side of his foot and sailed wide. <br /><br />Fulham, for their part, relied heavily on overlapping runs and monster throws by fresh signing John Arne Riise, who has finally recovered from Craig Bellamy’s mistaking him for a golf ball in their Liverpool days. Riise filled out his new Fulham kit a bit too much, making viewers thankful that Heskey was not attired in similar spandex.<br /><br />The point Villa earned for their active defending and flashy goalkeeping may be about what was expected in an opener on the road, but McLeish will need to develop some chemistry between N’Zogbia and Bent if they want to avoid the sort of miserable goal scoring droughts that plagued and eventually relegated Birmingham City last year. And comparisons to last season’s Birmingham City are probably not what Lerner wanted when he hired McLeish.<br />
John Meyerwitz
2011-08-13T22:30:00Z
Milan's Renewed Quest for Europe
Ogo Sylla
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Milans-Renewed-Quest-for-Europe/770605366502231752.html
2011-08-13T22:26:00Z
2011-08-13T22:26:00Z
<p style="text-align: justify;">Milan supremo, Silvio Berlusconi, has made it very clear that after the team’s <em>Scudetto</em> triumph the <em>Rossoneri </em>will be turning their eye towards the Champions League. The European Cup has always been the Holy Grail as well as the platform onto which much of Milan’s success has been built. Seven European Cups [second only to Real Madrid] are testament to that as well as Berlusconi’s ambition to put down a marker for his club through domination in Europe’s greatest club competition. In this coming season however, we must ask if the <em>Rossoneri </em>are really equipped to make an impact in Europe.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"> </p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">The answer to this question – were the mercato to end today – is no. The current squad would struggle to make a good enough Champions League run on the simple fact that there exists an important weakness in this current team. The weakness in question has to do with the team’s fluency in and around the middle of the pitch. There is a problem of comfortably dictating the tempo of the game through the midfield with Milan. Aging legs are mostly the reason for this when we consider that Milan’s midfield trio is composed of Mark van Bommel, Clarence Seedorf, and Gennaro Gattuso. All are great players who excelled in their roles last season but their athletic capabilities are an issue when playing in Europe. A player who can put his foot on the ball, carry it forward a bit and ping a pass is what’s needed. Effectively Milan need a <em>mezzala</em> (box-to-box midfielder) to start in Seedorf’s role on the left of midfield. The Dutchman did fantastically well last year and has been in great form this pre-season, but his stamina over the course of a long season as well as fact Milan will be fighting on multiple fronts are concerns.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"> </p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">In addition to the need for a competent passing midfielder, a proper <em>trequartista</em> (playmaker) will be needed if Milan are to go deep in Europe. For much of the general clamor around modern football that the classic no.10 has died, it by no means translates into the fact that they might be ineffectual. I use our neighbors on the blue side of the San Siro as a prime example of this when Jose Mourinho fought long and hard to convince Massimo Moratti to acquire him a <em>trequartista</em> (playmaker). Wesley Sneijder was brought in and Inter Milan went on to win an unprecedented [in Italy] treble, with Sneijder very much at the center of that success. Through much of last season, Kevin Prince Boateng operated in that role and did very well. He is a bit of an unorthodox <em>trequartista</em> however in that his piercing runs and physicality are his best assets, next to a decent passing ability as well as good technical ability. Boateng offers a lot in that role in the sense where Milan become more direct and forceful with Boateng on the pitch. The fact that Boateng works a lot on the defensive side of the game also means that he will be very useful in home legs of Champions League games. A <em>trequartista </em>who can play that all-important defense-splitting pass and can unlock defenses with his vision and passing is what’s needed in my opinion however for Milan to go deep in Champions League.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"> </p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Milan’s best asset right now to go deep in Europe is their defense however. Allegri has really created a good and balanced defensive setup and his work will go a long way to help Milan along their way. I have always been a staunch believer that great defenses are what take you deep in tournaments at the highest level. Indeed everyone is capable of scoring goals [to some extent], but defending well is what the great teams do. With the maturing of Thiago Silva, Milan boast of one of the best defenders in Europe at the moment. I believe Alessandro Nesta still has it within himself to give another big season in Europe, barring injuries of course. As for Abate, he has improved tremendously in his defending under the guidance of Allegri and tutelage of Mauro Tassotti. Taiwo is another great addition who will make a difference in Europe for his athletic ability, pace & counter-attacking capacity. Behind them is the always-consistent Christian Abbiati, who can be a game-winner by himself. The one key player however will be one Milan was deprived of for his having been cup-tied: Mark van Bommel. The Dutchman will sit right in front of the defense and I believe that his ability to break up attacks and experience at the highest level will be a critical asset for Milan in their European campaign.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"> </p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">The quest for the European Cup will be a long and difficult one. The addition of two more quality players, in the <em>mezzala</em> and <em>trequartista</em> positions, will be crucial to any chance Milan have to go deep in Europe. Of course Milan, even with those additions, are still miles away from the likes of Real Madrid and Barcelona but the issue is that such additions would allow Milan to at least compete. What is for sure though is that Milan boast of one important ace-in-the-hole, which is Zlatan Ibrahimovic of course and whether the Swede can have a big season in Europe. In conclusion, and given Berlusconi’s ambitions, anything less than a quarterfinal berth will have to be seen as a failure while a couple more midfield additions before the end of the mercato could spell a semi-final appearance. From there, anything is possible.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"> </p>
Ogo Sylla
2011-08-13T22:26:00Z
The Song Remains the Same
Brian Markowitz
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/The-Song-Remains-the-Same/-796369062416148246.html
2011-08-13T22:23:00Z
2011-08-13T22:23:00Z
<p>Another game, another dreadful performance and another loss. These things are becoming all too common for fans of the New York Red Bulls. Late April was quite a long time ago, but that was the last time the Red Bulls looked like a threatening side. Back then, New York was finishing up a torrid stretch to start the season by beating Sporting Kansas City and it looked like they might run away with the Eastern Conference title.<br /> <br /> But oh how things have changed since then.<br /> <br /> A few months, a few key injuries and absences to the CONCACAF Gold Cup, a trade and more than a few head scratching, sleepless nights later, Hans Backe finds his team third in the Eastern Conference, tied with Kansas City (who have run off a 14-game unbeaten streak since that April meeting) <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/GrantWahl/status/100662051210395648">and with the potential to actually miss the playoffs</a>. This is quite a far cry from the RBNY side I witnessed demolish DC United at RFK Stadium in April. It was hard to imagine that anything could go wrong.<br /> <br /> So what’s happened?</p>
<p>One of the most popular refrains seems to be the lack of Dwayne DeRosario or another playmaking type. But while these cries were undoubtedly amplified over the weekend because of DeRo’s three-goal heroics to earn 10-man DC United a draw with Toronto FC, I don’t necessarily think that’s it. </p>
<p>First, while the reason for the trade that brought DeRo to Red Bulls was to provide more playmaking options going forward, DeRo was consistently played out of position. DeRosario’s worth in attack is not to be creating the chances, but to be finishing the chances. With New York, he was never played in that position. Second, DeRosario and Thierry Henry love occupying the same spaces and Henry was given free reign to be the drifting playmaker in attack. Had DeRosario, therefore, been employed elsewhere, this conversation might not be happening. </p>
<p>The last reason I’m not sold on the DeRo argument is because it is now painfully obvious that New York has no balance on the pitch, with few defensive options in midfield. In the early going of the now months-long tailspin, Red Bulls were victimized because of little or no defensive presence; offensive firepower was never a question. The trade that brought Dax McCarty to Red Bull Arena was well intentioned – he would serve as part of a holding tandem with Teemu Tainio but with more of an option to go forward. The assumption was, of course, that Tainio and McCarty would play together most of the time. The problem, however, is that Tainio has played few games with McCarty and McCarty still frequently goes forward and doesn’t track back quickly enough, leaving a huge imbalance and yards of space to be caught on the counter-attack (DC’s only goal against New York on July 9 in New Jersey is a prime example).<br /> <br /> What then is the more likely reason this team isn’t performing?</p>
<p>Lack of depth. Let’s be honest, when a team has to remove a substitute midfielder for a center back just to move another center back into holding midfield to provide that presence, something is wrong. And that’s exactly what happened this past Saturday against Real Salt Lake. At halftime, already down two demoralizing goals, Backe removed McCarty for center back Stephen Keel and then shifted Rafa Marquez over to McCarty’s holding midfield position. This is clearly an indicator that New York, without Tainio or any other midfield muscle, will get run over too easily. Additionally, on more than one occasion, Mehdi Ballouchy has replaced Tainio in midfield when the Finn was unable to play. While Ballouchy has had his moments, he certainly hasn’t had them in a defensive position, and certainly cannot be confused for the other <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Fellaini,_Everton_FC.jpg">central midfielder with bushy hair playing for Everton</a>.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><img src="/images/blog/alg_red_bulls_thierry_henry.jpg" alt="" width="236" height="189" /></p>
<p> </p>
<p>Not to beat a dead horse, but the little depth Backe does have at his disposal is well out of its league. The substitutes that usually fill out the team sheet are rookies and players without much MLS experience – like Keel, John Rooney, Matt Kassel and Corey Hertzog – who simply cannot yet contribute meaningful minutes. While those players do show glimpses of potential (and I am especially partial to Kassel, as he and I are both Maryland alums), they are too few and far between. The spate of recent injuries only highlights this lack of depth even more and brings this issue front and center as the most important problem to solve going forward.</p>
<p>Another situation, though, to keep an eye on for the remainder of this season and moving forward into next season is the position of Backe as head coach. He was <a href="http://www.bigapplesoccer.com/teams/redbulls2.php?article_id=28076">recently given the dreaded vote of confidence by Erik Soler</a> and has been the target of many fans’ ire. While Backe can only work with what he has, many feel he could, and should, be doing more with what he has. The actions of some players certainly lend credence to the suggestion that Backe may have outgrown his welcome and the recent results only add more pressure. In post-match interviews, the coach’s body language is telling: tired, worn out and hopeless. While no player has said outright they are tired of Backe, the team may have gotten to the point where change is necessary – much like the US men’s national team. Team energy is lacking and they get down on themselves immediately after goals. How much of that is the coach and how much is emotion taking over on the pitch remains to be seen, but the coach is often the first one to go after a string of bad results (see Roman Abramovich).</p>
<p>For me as a fan, this season has lost its excitement. Watching a game, I feel like Bill Murray in <em>Groundhog Day</em>. It’s frustrating to see the problem and not see anything done about it. What will happen the rest of the way out? I, for one, unfortunately, have become much less optimistic about making the MLS Cup playoffs. Does this team have one more Jekyll and Hyde moment left? That is up to the players and coach and that is a scary thought.</p>
Brian Markowitz
2011-08-13T22:23:00Z
Healy praises McCourt
Will Taylor
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Healy-praises-McCourt/-159645164739501263.html
2011-08-13T22:15:00Z
2011-08-13T22:15:00Z
<p>David Healy has praised his international team mate, Pat McCourt for his stunning goal against the Faroe Islands.</p>
<p>Northern Ireland romped to an emphatic 4-0 win over the Faroes on Wednesday, and Celtic man, McCourt’s goal was the highlight of the game.</p>
<p>He has been branded the ‘Derry Pele’ by journalists in his own country, and such acclaim in not undue either.</p>
<p>Healy, who plays his club football for Celtic’s arch-rivals, Rangers, said the goal was something you would expect from Lionel Messi.</p>
<p>He said: “He has all the ability in the world and he goes past defenders as if it's too easy.</p>
<p>“He will lose possession the odd time but it was nice to hear the fans singing: 'Are you Messi in disguise?'</p>
<p>“Paddy did what everyone knows he can do – score two magnificent goals.”</p>
<p>Healy, who was Europe’s leading goal scorer in Euro 2008 qualification, admits that he can sometimes be left in awe of McCourt’s skill.</p>
<p>He added: “Paddy's a star – he's always been a star. I can remember his first game when Sammy McIlroy brought him in against Spain and people were asking: 'What is going on?'”</p>
<p>Northern Ireland failed to qualify for Euro 2008, despite Healy’s incredible goal scoring record.</p>
<p>And even though McCourt’s goal will be remembered by fans for a long time, qualification for Euro 2012 is still some way off.</p>
<p>Manager, Nigel Worthington says it is important that his side now focus on trying to qualify, but knows it will be a hard ask.</p>
<p>For all the result looked impressive on paper, Worthington knows that it was certainly no stroll in the park.</p>
<p>Worthington said: “The most important thing was getting the points but we made hard work of it in the first-half after getting a perfect start.</p>
<p>"We got a perfect start because we did what we had practised in training. It got a bit sloppy because we were happy to play in front of the Faroes which suited them, but we sorted one or two things out at half-time and they carried it out to the letter."</p>
<p>Northern Ireland’s next game is against Serbia at Windsor Park on September 2. It is important that they pick up another win if they are to progress.</p>
Elsewhere, will Wesley Sneijder be wearing an <a href="http://www.football-shirts.co.uk/fans/leaked-inter-away-shirt-201112_12874">Inter Away Shirt</a> next season? Or will he go to Manchester United? Who knows!!!
Will Taylor
2011-08-13T22:15:00Z
Bundesliga 1. Spieltag
Victor Ellis
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Bundesliga-1.-Spieltag/248965171599230076.html
2011-08-13T01:09:00Z
2011-08-13T01:09:00Z
<p class="BodySingle"><strong>1. Spieltag</strong></p>
<p class="BodySingle"><strong>Borussia Dortmund - Hamburger SV 3:1 (2:0)</strong></p>
<p class="BodySingle"><strong> </strong>"Whatever you do, don't mention the War!" Not possible with these Borussen. Especially when, in true Prussian form (for those etymologically-inclined, the "Borussia" appellation in BVB comes from the Latin form of "Prussia"), Dortmund's <span style="text-decoration: line-through;">panzers</span> players rolled across, around, over and through a motley collection of Czechs, Croats, Dutch and French (OK, he's English, but his name sounds French) in a blitzkrieg that picked up right where they left off in May. Feldmarschall Jürgen K. (the successful one) welcomed back his fellow Axis powerhouse Shinji Kagawa who maneuvered around HSV defenders like an A6M against Brewster Buffaloes and was unlucky not to get on the scoresheet. Even after racheting their high-tempo offense down a couple of gears, BVB's rock solid defense rarely looked threatened by an anemic HSV attack (loosely-defined) that generated only 2 real chances and was flattered by the final score.</p>
<p class="BodySingle">Next up: TSG 1899 Hoffenheim - Dortmund; HSV - Hertha BSC Berlin</p>
<p class="BodySingle">Hamburg's Michael Oenning will need to figure out how to translate HSV's success in winning the opening coin toss into 90 minutes of actual play on the pitch. Fortunately hosting Hertha this week will help. Meanwhile ecstatic Dortmund fans left Westfalenstadion looking forward to taking on the Champions League with Wunderkind "Götzinho" and saying "Nuri who?"</p>
<p class="BodySingle"><strong>SV Werder Bremen - 1. FC Kaiserslautern 2:0 (0:0)</strong></p>
<p class="BodySingle">Licking their wounds after an embarrassing 13th-place finish last season and more recently, a 1:2 first-round DFB-Pokal loss to 3rd Division side 1. FC Heidenheim, Bremen looked to show the Weserstadion faithful that the squad really isn't as pathetic as it seems. Fortunately their opponents, who overachieved in their promotion season by riding 7 wins in their last 9 matches to escape relegation, appear to have come back down to earth. The return of Bremen's Swedish striker from his Spanish sojourn at Santander (whose club was ripped by Werder GM Klaus Allofs as "morally bankrupt" for failing to pay for the loan) was the key, with Markus Rosenberg scoring 2 and narrowly missing a hat trick.</p>
<p class="BodySingle">Sunday: Bayer Leverkusen - SV Werder Bremen; 1. FC Kaiserslautern - FC Augsburg</p>
<p class="BodySingle">Bremen, buoyed by captain Per Mertesacker's comeback, may find that bonus short-lived if rumors of his impending departure to points as yet unknown are true. They'll visit the BayArena Sunday to test both their resurgence and the Werkself's fourth keeper of the young season. And FCK, despite a successful first season back in the top flight, looks to struggle during a more difficult sophomore campaign with its young squad. A 9-1 fouls to chances ratio is not a formula for success. Even against newly-promoted Augsburg.</p>
<p class="BodySingle"><strong>Hannover 96 - TSG 1899 Hoffenheim 2:1 (2:1)</strong></p>
<p class="BodySingle">Another of last year's overachievers started the season off right with a comeback win over Hoffenheim and new coach Holger Stanislawski. All 3 goals happened within a 15-minute span, with Hannover taking a 1:0 lead on a controversial free kick that was either quick thinking by Jan Schlaudraff or a bad call by referee Thorsten Kinhöfer (or both), depending on which team you support. Less controversial were the subsequent penalty kicks from fouls by noted goons Emanuel "Anschluß" Pogatetz and Bayern castoff Edson Braafheid, which led to the tying and eventual winning goals, respectively.</p>
<p class="BodySingle">Next up: 1. FC Nürnberg - Hannover 96; TSG 1899 Hoffenheim - Borussia Dortmund</p>
<p class="BodySingle">Hannover hope to continue last season's success this Saturday against other surprise overachievers Nürnberg, while dealing with the additional requirement of a tough Europa League play-off against Sevilla next week. Stanislawski also has a long road ahead. While not bereft of talent, one of the youngest sides in the Bundesliga will take time to gel with their new trainer. Hosting Dortmund's "Ballzauberer" this week won't help.</p>
<p class="BodySingle"><strong>VfB Stuttgart - Schalke 04 3:0 (1:0)</strong></p>
<p class="BodySingle">In another entertaining match at the newly renovated <span style="text-decoration: line-through;">Adolf-Hitler Kampfbahn</span>, <span style="text-decoration: line-through;">Century Stadium</span>, <span style="text-decoration: line-through;">Neckarstadion</span>, <span style="text-decoration: line-through;">Gottlieb-Daimler Stadion</span>, Mercedes-Benz Arena, (whew!) VfB ran their home record against Gelsenkirchen's <span style="text-decoration: line-through;">lovable</span> losers over the last 10 seasons to 8-1-3, with an impressive 18-0 goal difference in their 8 wins. Adopted hometown hero Cacau opened the scoring with a classic header in the 37th minute, from new Mexican defender Maza's assist, before Harnik and Okazaki finished things off in the second half. Schalke shockingly managed not a single shot on frame from Raul, young returnee and rising star Lewis Holtby or Klaas-Jan Huntelaar, although some credit must be given to quality interior defensive work from VfB's new "K2" double-pivot of Kvist and Kuzmanovic, as well as Tasci and the aforementioned Maza.</p>
<p class="BodySingle">This week: Borussia Mönchengladbach - VfB Stuttgart; FC Schalke 04 - 1. FC Köln</p>
<p class="BodySingle">VfB hope their opening win will help banish another "Horrorherbsthinrunde" and the subsequent coach sackings that have characterized the last few seasons. They'll also be hoping for a letdown by Gladbach this weekend after the other Borussen's big win in München last Sunday. Schalke will face an easier task at home against perpetually-in-disarray Köln. The Karnival Klub with its recently dethroned Kronprinz Poldi has been a veritable circus of discontent; expect that to continue after they get thrashed in the Veltins-Arena.</p>
<p class="BodySingle"><strong>1. FC Köln - VfL Wolfsburg 0:3 (0:1)</strong></p>
<p class="BodySingle">New coach Stale Solbakken (Norwegian for "What the hell am I doing here?") has had plenty of headlines since his arrival among the Geißbock and their stubborn (now former) captain Lukas Podolski. Unfortunately none of them good. Add to that injuries to key players, (including Poldi's armband-usurper Geromel) and it looks to be a long autumn with no relief in sight. Who better to take advantage of those problems than "Saddam" Magath himself? Magath's Wolfsburg rebounded from a disastrous DFB-Pokal defeat at the hands of RB Leipzig (who play in the Regionalliga Nord - für alle Nichtdeutschen that's the 4<sup>th</sup> Division) to shellack Köln. Despite being outplayed for most of the match Köln hung onto a 0:1 deficit until Slovenian striker Milivoje Novakovic left his brain outside <span style="text-decoration: line-through;">Müngersdorferstadion</span> Rhein-Energie-Stadion for a bit of handbags with new tough guy Marco Russ. Having already shown him a yellow, referee Manuel Gräfe promptly sent Novakovic to enjoy an early shower. Die Wölfe then settled the match with 2 goals in the last 10 minutes for a deserved win.</p>
<p class="BodySingle">Next up: FC Schalke 04 - 1. FC Köln; VfL Wolfsburg - FC Bayern</p>
<p class="BodySingle">Both clubs will face more difficulty this weekend, facing Schalke and Bayern squads hungry for a victory after opening-day embarrassments.</p>
<p class="BodySingle"><strong>FC Augsburg - SC Freiburg 2:2 (0:0)</strong></p>
<p class="BodySingle">Newcomers Augsburg showed their Kampfgeist, overcoming both pre-match drama over coach Jos Luhukay's ouster of popular striker Michael Thurk as well as two SCF leads to earn a hard fought point in the first Bundesliga match at the SGL-Arena. Freiburg relied on goals from Cissé (shocker!) and Makiadi to twice take the lead, before FCA ace <span style="text-decoration: line-through;">Werner</span> Sascha Mölders piloted the Függerstädter with 2 goals in the seesaw second-half for the deserved draw.</p>
<p class="BodySingle">Saturday: SC Freiburg - FSV Mainz 05; Sunday: 1. FC Kaiserslautern - FC Augsburg</p>
<p class="BodySingle">Freiburg, embarassingly dumped out of the DFB-Pokal 1<sup>st</sup> round by SpVgg Unterhaching of the 3. Bundesliga and in danger of losing star Cissé, need a result against Mainz this weekend. Meanwhile Augsburg will try to build on their relatively positive introduction to the Bundesliga against K'town at the Fritz Walter Stadion.</p>
<p class="BodySingle"><strong>Hertha BSC Berlin - 1. FC Nürnberg 0:1 (0:0)</strong></p>
<p class="BodySingle">A match so boring it was described in "Kicker" magazine as a "Testbild" with rare scenes in the area to entertain the over 60,000 Olympiastadion fans. Der Club found they only needed to convert 1 of their 2 chances to ruin Hertha's return to the top flight. On top of losing rising stars Julian Schieber to VfB (from loan) and "Silky" Ilkay Gündogan to Dortmund (who debuted in the DFB squad in their 3:2 defeat of Brazil this week), injuries look to cause more problems for Nürnberg. Hertha coach Markus Babbel, who thought he got a raw deal at Stuttgart, may end up redefining that term as Berlin struggle to produce some kind of offense in their latest promotion season.</p>
<p class="BodySingle">Saturday: Hamburger SV - Hertha BSC Berlin; 1. FC Nürnberg - Hannover 96</p>
<p class="BodySingle"><strong>FSV Mainz 05 - Bayer Leverkusen 2:0 (1:0)</strong></p>
<p class="BodySingle">Leverkusen, after losing keeper Rene Adler to a preseason knee injury and blowing a 3:0 lead to lose to Dynamo Dresden in the DFB-Pokal, decided borrowing Schalke's uniforms might change their luck. Bad idea. Not only did they lose the match on two relatively bizarre goals, they lost yet another Torwart when 3<sup>rd</sup>-string keeper Fabian Giefer suffered a concussion that left him unable to remember anything that happened over the last month(given the Werkself's performance over that time, maybe not such a bad thing? - die Redaktion.) The injuries left coach (and noted Torwartzerstörer - die Red.) Robin Dutt with only <span style="text-decoration: line-through;">scheiß</span> Amerikaner David Yelldell available. Giving up 4 goals to Dresden in less than 30 minutes has not exactly endeared Yelldell to the Leverkusen <span style="text-decoration: line-through;">Führer</span> Trainer (or fans: "Ami raus!"), thus enters 19 year-old star prodigy Bernd "Jay" Leno on loan from Stuttgart to hopefully shore up Bayer's space between the sticks.</p>
<p class="BodySingle">Saturday: SC Freiburg - FSV Mainz 05; Sunday: Bayer Leverkusen - Werder Bremen</p>
<p class="BodySingle">Coach Thomas Tuchel's Mainz will travel to the Black Forest this weekend to hopefully turn around their recent performances at the <span style="text-decoration: line-through;">Dreisamstadion</span> Badenova-Stadion, having lost 1:0 in the last two seasons, both on goals by Cissé (shocker!). At the BayArena on Sunday, Leverkusen fans will hope to at least hold serve against Bremen (5 draws in the last 5 BL matches between the two clubs) and that they can go a full 90 minutes without any additional goalkeeper injuries. Werkself and VfB fans collectively hold their breath.</p>
<p class="BodySingle"><strong>FC Bayern München - Borussia Mönchengladbach 0:1 (0:0)</strong></p>
<p class="BodySingle">Bayern-Gladbach: that 70s show classic (when current Bayern coach Jupp Heynckes led his fellow players of "Die Fohlen" to 4 Bundesliga championships, one DFB Pokal and the UEFA Cup) had been depressingly one-sided over the last decade plus, but finally was resurrected last Sunday at the Allianz Arena by a determined Fohlenelf. Bayern's play, aptly described by Franck Ribery and Thomas Müller as "Scheiße", looked sluggish and uninspired for much of the match. So much so that far more post-match criticism was directed at the field players, particularly the offense, than at expensive new boys Manuel Neuer and Jerome Boateng, whose misunderstanding on an awkward long ball led to Gladbach's conversion of 1 of 2 chances into the winning goal. Despite winning 12 corners, almost 60% possession and over twice as many chances, Bayern simply could not overcome a sturdy central defense (that last year gave up 65 goals!), some excellent tactics from Lucien Favre ("Robbery" were almost completely stifled) and the visitors' steady gain in confidence as the match went on.</p>
<p class="BodySingle">Saturday: VfL Wolfsburg - FC Bayern München; Borussia Mönchengladbach - VfB Stuttgart</p>
<p class="BodySingle">Bayern travel Saturday to battle their former coach in Wolfsburg and the potential tabloid hype-fest should they fail to win, especially with their first Champions League qualification match looming next week against FC Zürich. Having breathed a sigh of relief when rioting morons in London ended Robben's chance of injury with the KNVB against the 3 Lions, once again Bayern will be without the services of their No. 10, after he injured his <span style="text-decoration: line-through;">groin</span>, <span style="text-decoration: line-through;">hamstring</span>, <span style="text-decoration: line-through;">oblique</span>, back in a bizarre gardening accident Thursday ("Of course he's questionable!" groused Don Jupp). Gladbach return to the friendly confines of the <span style="text-decoration: line-through;">Bökelberg</span> Borussia Park to take on high-flying VfB and looking for some payback for the 0:7 Schwäbische shellacking they suffered in Stuttgart last September.</p>
<p class="BodySingle">Bis zum nächsten mal......</p>
<p class="BodySingle">Auf geht's!</p>
Victor Ellis
2011-08-13T01:09:00Z
Onward and upward- Light at the end of the tunnel
Joaquin Reyes
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Onward-and-upward--Light-at-the-end-of-the-tunnel/-932466759486578122.html
2011-08-12T15:18:00Z
2011-08-12T15:18:00Z
<p>Many people have written off the mighty Arsenal this season, many saying the Gunners will finish outside of the top four, fall apart, get relegated, fall off the face of the Earth, you get the point. Granted it has been a rough summer for Gooners everywhere, and the prospect of losing two of your best players is not going to get everyone excited for the new season. The best thing we can do is get it done and move on and sign new players. </p>
<p>First, look at the teams around us, not too many have strengthened much. I won’t rule Arsenal out of the title race but I am expecting it to be a two horse race between the Manchester clubs. Should United sign Sneijder, I think they may have it in the bag. That said, they play the matches for a reason and anything can happen. We may be in the mix and Chelsea could definitely put it together, but the important thing is to look at the teams below us and see if they will challenge us. The only candidate is Liverpool. Don’t talk to me about Tottenham as they haven’t done shit. Liverpool has spent ridiculous money on players considering they don’t have oil money and I don’t think the money has been spent efficiently. Suarez seems to be the only signing they have made where they will get proper value for money. They have too many midfielders and a shit defense. They will be involved in many a 3-2 match and I am sure they will be on both ends of those results throughout the year. </p>
<p>So let’s talk positives. There is pace up and down this team. All three new signings have plenty of speed and with Ryo getting his work permit it’s “like a new signing.” Arsenal fans hate that term as we hear it all together too much as opposed to signing new players. But it is quite possible that we have the fastest team in the league. Sagna and Gibbs at full back, and the choice between Gervinho, Ryodinho, Theo, Andrei, AOC, and Vela on the wings of the front three should strike fear into the hearts of opposing defenses all season. </p>
<p>While on the subject of full backs, we should expect much better service and crossing this season with the inclusion of Kieran Gibbs. As demonstrated with his assist for Van Persie against Benfica Gibbs adds a new dimension for Arsenal down the left flank. Better movement around the box and actually a shot on him, we shouldn’t see the shanks Clichy would send into the 20<sup>th</sup> row by the corner flag. I believe Sagna’s crossing improved significantly last year and I dare you to find me a better right back in the league.</p>
<p>There certainly are midfield questions, but I thoroughly expect at least one replacement should the want away midfielders depart. Ramsey and Wilshere will perform and grow this season. I do believe they are the future of the club and Aaron could have the breakthrough season this year that Jack enjoyed the previous term.</p>
<p>The most important and exciting prospect for the club is the return of Thomas Vermaelen. The most natural leader in the squad and the man I would hand the armband to when Cesc officially departs. We know the captaincy will go to Van Persie, but I am sure we will see Thomas wearing the armband plenty because we’ve never seen Robin fit a full season. The Verminator is without a doubt the spine many said was lacking in seasons prior and I can’t think of anyone I’d rather have leading the men.</p>
<p>One mistake many have made is writing off Andrei Arshavin, the man is quality. He has come into pre-season looking skinny and fit, probably having heard the criticism about form and fitness with things to prove. I expect a strong season from the diminutive Russian with plenty of goals and assists. We may even see him move into the midfield to play the role he performs for Russia as a true number ten, and if he could recreate the form he lit up Euro 2008 with Arsenal will be in good shape. I am starting to feel that Gervinho may turn into the Premier League buy of the season. His incisiveness and trickery give the attack a much more direct option which has been badly lacking in recent years. He creates as much as he scores, as does Theo, and I expect all three to chip in double figures in goals. Robin has been in the form of his life and we can only pray he stays fit for the majority of the season. We will be banging goals in from all over the pitch and I for one am counting the hours until kickoff Saturday. </p>
<p>With all the happenings of the summer there are two ways the squad can cope. One is to lie down and listen to the bullshit, or they can go out there and put everything on the line. This Arsenal team tends to do better when written off so I hope they come out with a chip on their shoulder and prove the doubters wrong. People thought Manchester United wouldn’t be able to cope with the loss of Ronaldo and Tevez, they did just fine. People thought the club would go to shit when Paddy and Thierry left but we persevered. Someone else will step up and take the reigns as has been done in the past. It’s a new season, everything to play for. The ball is in their court, in these trying times the team needs to show us their true mettle. I, like a naïve mother, believe they will. But isn’t that the beauty of it? Football needs belief to succeed and that applies to supporters as well. Let’s get behind the team and hope for the best, we may be surprised.<br /><br /><br /><br />You can follow me on Twitter @MorningPint<br /><br />Also check out the blog for all my football musings, not to mention this exclusive look at Xavi's journal.<br /><br /><a href="http://morningpint.blogspot.com/2011/08/exclusive-this-just-in-from-barcelona.html">http://morningpint.blogspot.com/2011/08/exclusive-this-just-in-from-barcelona.html</a> </p>
Joaquin Reyes
2011-08-12T15:18:00Z
Spot Kick's EPL predictions for 2011-12 season. Read it and weep.
Nash Larson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Spot-Kicks-EPL-predictions-for-2011-12-season.-Read-it-and-weep./355113169367067370.html
2011-08-12T15:07:00Z
2011-08-12T15:07:00Z
<p>Christmas...superficial, Birthdays...overrated, but the start of the footballing season, sublime. Editor of SpotKickJournalism makes his rash, yet calculated predictions for the 2011-12 English season.</p>
<p>And now drumrole......</p>
<p> </p>
<p>1.) Manchester United <span style="text-decoration: underline;">Top Scorers, (all comp's):</span></p>
<p> 2.) Chelsea Luis Suarez 21</p>
<p> 3.) Manchester City Robin van Persie 19</p>
<p> 4.) Liverpool "Chicharito" Hernandez 18 </p>
<p>5.) Arsenal</p>
<p> 6.) Tottenham <span style="text-decoration: underline;">Surprise of the season:</span></p>
<p> 7.) Aston Villa Stefen Savic ( Man City)</p>
<p> 8.) Fulham David De Gea ( Man U) </p>
<p> 9.) Everton <span style="text-decoration: underline;">Flop of the season:</span></p>
<p>10.) Bolton Edin Dzeko </p>
<p>11.) West Brom Gabriel Obertan</p>
<p>12.) Newcastle Fernando Torres ( Goals scored...6 total)</p>
<p>13.) Stoke <span style="text-decoration: underline;">Signing's of the season:</span></p>
<p>14.) Sunderland Gervinho (Arsenal)</p>
<p>15.) Blackburn Ashley Youing (Man U)</p>
<p>16.)Wolves John Arne Riise (Fulham)</p>
<p>17.) QPR Demba Ba (Newcastle) </p>
<p>----------------- Relegated----------</p>
<p>18.) Wigan</p>
<p>19.) Swansea City</p>
<p>20.) Norwich</p>
<p> </p>
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<td><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fAvSF2B0_eU/TkQeHHxlzZI/AAAAAAAAALs/GhQm6nHWaVU/s1600/Luis%252BSuarez%252BChris%252BSmalling%252BLiverpool%252Bv%252BManchester%252BFHJSu20qdG_l.jpg"><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fAvSF2B0_eU/TkQeHHxlzZI/AAAAAAAAALs/GhQm6nHWaVU/s400/Luis%252BSuarez%252BChris%252BSmalling%252BLiverpool%252Bv%252BManchester%252BFHJSu20qdG_l.jpg" border="0" alt="" width="400" height="267" /></a></td>
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<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;">After winning the Copa America practically on his own, the Uruguayan will destroy defenses this year. </td>
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<td><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-niBNQzLAfcs/TkQjnSbbnmI/AAAAAAAAAL0/S91xUEfiNKY/s1600/manchester-city-aris-saloniki-europa-league-edin-dzeko%252Bcropped.jpeg"><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-niBNQzLAfcs/TkQjnSbbnmI/AAAAAAAAAL0/S91xUEfiNKY/s400/manchester-city-aris-saloniki-europa-league-edin-dzeko%252Bcropped.jpeg" border="0" alt="" width="400" height="201" /></a></td>
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<td class="tr-caption">Looks to have no confidence. Was fantastic in the Bundesliga, but will once again struggle for an impact.</td>
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<p> </p>
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<td><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RGueqM1aHgw/TkQjrqKxDnI/AAAAAAAAAL4/e8Hk1tticuY/s1600/Gabriel-Obertan-leaps-ove-006-1.jpg"><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RGueqM1aHgw/TkQjrqKxDnI/AAAAAAAAAL4/e8Hk1tticuY/s320/Gabriel-Obertan-leaps-ove-006-1.jpg" border="0" alt="" width="245" height="320" /></a></td>
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<td class="tr-caption">Where's the allure? Reminiscent of a car without a speed-o-meter.</td>
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<td><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-itMsuoO1MVE/TkQkWVTWi6I/AAAAAAAAAL8/VJOwptOutl4/s1600/Fernando%252BTorres-Chelsea%252Bcropped.jpeg"><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-itMsuoO1MVE/TkQkWVTWi6I/AAAAAAAAAL8/VJOwptOutl4/s640/Fernando%252BTorres-Chelsea%252Bcropped.jpeg" border="0" alt="" width="640" height="321" /></a></td>
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<td class="tr-caption">Total goal tally....a clinical 6. Suddenly that Lukaku signing looks something special. I am not being bitter, he's lost it. My bet is in two season's he'll be heading back to Athletico, to find himself.</td>
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<td><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-icVI9V0gAM4/TkQisPns81I/AAAAAAAAALw/L7idaqLR8Ic/s1600/Stefan-Savic.jpg"><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-icVI9V0gAM4/TkQisPns81I/AAAAAAAAALw/L7idaqLR8Ic/s320/Stefan-Savic.jpg" border="0" alt="" width="320" height="176" /></a></td>
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<td class="tr-caption">Still unsure over Lescott?? the young Montenegrin might not get much time, but when he does he'll shine like a Swarovski. <br /><br /></td>
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Trust my judgment?.... Check out more @ <br /><a href="/spotkickjournalism.blogspot.com">spotkickjournalism.blogspot.com</a>
Nash Larson
2011-08-12T15:07:00Z
Chelsea's 2010-2011 Season Song Title Review
Lamin Oo
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Chelseas-2010-2011-Season-Song-Title-Review/725067950251326824.html
2011-08-12T15:03:00Z
2011-08-12T15:03:00Z
<p>In a shameless attempt to self-promote my blog, I tried to start a Twitter trend called #Songs4CFC last week. Basically, I encouraged people tweet song titles that could have been news headlines for some of the most memorable events involving Chelsea FC and the players in 2010-2011 season. For example, "It Was A Good Day" by Ice Cube will be the song title choice for Chelsea beating Manchester United 2-1 at Stamford Bridge in the league.</p>
<p>The idea sounds great in my head but in reality, very few people possess the degree of dorkiness required to participate in such an endeavor. Or at least they are not willing to show it publicly. So, I ended up being the only one tweeting away song titles while the rest of the world ignored as if I were a stubborn pig wiggling his pathetic little tail in an attempt to fly.</p>
<p>But by being the sole propagandist <em>and</em> the solitary protester in this Twitter "revolution," I did managed to come up with a nice list of song titles that neatly summarizes various notable events of Chelsea's 2010-2011 season. So, I thought, why not compile them in one blog post. It would just be another one of my musings that will inevitably be overlooked by anyone who has better things to do with their lives.</p>
<p>Without further ado, here is the Chelsea's 2010-2011 Season reviewed in song titles...<br /><br /><img style="float: left; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/article-0-06FFF6E9000005DC-125_468x309.jpg" alt="" /> </p>
<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /># <strong>Cleaning Out My Closet</strong> ~ Eminem: Chelsea says goodbye to Michael Ballack, Deco, Ricardo Calvalho, Joe Cole and Juliano Belletti.<br /><br /># <strong>The Beginning of the End</strong> ~ Nine Inch Nail: Chelsea is defeated 3-1 by Manchester United in the 2010 FA Community Shield.<br />
<p># <strong>Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)</strong> ~ The Eurythmics: The Blues begins the season in brilliant form. Five wins our of five; Scoring 21 goals and conceding only one.</p>
<p># <strong>Break Your Heart</strong> ~ Taio Cruz: 21-year-old defender Sam Hutchinson retires from professional football due to recurring knee injury.<br /><br /><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/rocketman.jpg" alt="" /> </p>
<p># <strong>Rocket Man</strong> ~ Elton John: Chelsea defender Alex scores a cracking free kick from 30 yards out against the London rival Arsenal in the club's 2-0 home victory in the league.</p>
<p># <strong>Good Riddance (Time of Your Life)</strong> ~ Green Day: Chelsea part company with assistant manager Ray Wilkins.</p>
<p># <strong>I Want It That Way</strong> ~ Backstreet Boys: The Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich is reportedly behind the firing of Ray Wilkins and the rumor of the Russian billionaire meddling in the club's management.</p>
<img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/chelsea-sunderland.jpg" alt="" /><br /><br /># <strong>Warning Sign</strong> ~ Coldplay: Chelsea suffer a shock 3-0 defeat to Sunderland at Stamford Bridge, their second league loss in the space of a week.<br />
<p># <strong>Who Are You?</strong> ~ The Who: Michael Emenalo is appointed as successor to Ray Wilkins in the role of assistant manager.</p>
<p># <strong>Cat Scratch Fever</strong> ~ Ted Nugent: Didier Drogba catches malaria but plays through the illness for some part of the season.</p>
<p># <strong>A Long December</strong> ~ Counting Crows: Chelsea went on a long dreadful run from mid November to the end of December during which they fail win a single game (3 losses and 3 draws) in the league.</p>
# <strong>Dog Days Are Over</strong> ~ Florence and the Machine: Chelsea grab a 4-0 victory over Bolton Wanderers at the Reebok Stadium, their third consecutive win on the bounce.<br /><br /><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Fernando-Torres-Chelsea-300x224.jpg" alt="" /><br /><br />
<p># <strong>Mo' Money Mo' Problems</strong> ~ Notorious B.I.G.: Chelsea sign Fernando Torres for a British transfer record of<span style="font-family: inherit;"> £50 million. In return for the money spent for his transfer, the Spanish international scored ONE goal for the club.</span></p>
<p># <strong>Smells Like Teen Spirit</strong> ~ Nirvana: Josh McEachran impresses the fans and the coach in a handful of games he was able to start. The teenager wins the Chelsea Young Player of the Year Award at the end of the season. </p>
<div>
<p># <strong>Killing Me Softly</strong> ~ Fugees: Ashley Cole accidentally shoots an intern with an air rifle in Chelsea's training ground.</p>
</div>
# <strong>Achy Breaky Heart</strong> ~ Billy Ray Cyrus: Chelsea crash out of the FA Cup after losing to Everton in penalty shoot outs.<br /><br /><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Chelsea_beat_Man_Utd.jpg" alt="" /><br /><br />
<p># <strong>Don't Stop Believing</strong> ~ Journey: Chelsea beat Manchester United 2-1 to reignite their chances of defending the Premier League title.<br /><br /># <strong>...Baby One More Time</strong> ~ Britney Spears: Chelsea skipper John Terry is reinstated as captain of England by Fabio Capello. </p>
<p># <strong>Boulevard of Broken Dreams</strong> ~ Green Day: Chelsea are knocked out of the UEFA Chamipions League quarter finals by Manchester United.</p>
<p># <strong>Under Pressure</strong> ~ Queen: After another unsuccessful season in Europe, Carlo Ancelotti's Chelsea has Premier League as their only hope for a trophy.</p>
<p># <strong>Hope For The Hopeless</strong> ~ A Fine Frenzy: With wins over Birmingham, West Ham (Torres scores) and Tottenham (Lampard scores a controversial goal), Chelsea keeps the pressure on the league leader Manchester United.</p>
<p># <strong>Bullet In Your Head</strong> ~ Rage Against The Machine: Manchester United beat Chelsea 2-1, extinguishing almost all the hopes of the Blues winning the title.</p>
<p># <strong>Dead Man Walking</strong> ~ Bruce Springsteen: With a trophy-less season on his hand, Carlo Ancelotti is reported to be very close to the exit doors of Stamford Bridge.</p>
<p># <strong>One</strong> ~ U2: Petr Cech wins the Chelsea Player of the Year, which attests to the fact that most Chelsea players have displayed forgettable performances throughout the season.</p>
<img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/_52900543_carlo464.jpg" alt="" /><br /><br />
<p># <strong>High and Dry</strong> ~ Radiohead: Carlo Ancelotti is reportedly sacked while in the tunnel of Goodison Park after Chelsea's last game of the season which ended in defeat.<br /><br /># <strong>Another One Bites The Dust</strong> ~ Queen: Carlo Ancelotti becomes the sixth manager in eight years to have shown the door by the Russian owner Abramovich.</p>
<p># <strong>Every Rose Has Its Thorn</strong> ~ Poison: Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich is again blamed by the fans and media for not being patient with another Chelsea Manger.</p>
<p># <strong>Life After You</strong> ~ Daughtry: Chelsea looks for a new manger. </p>
Lamin Oo
2011-08-12T15:03:00Z
U-20 World Cup Penalty Drama, Drama, Drama
Scotty Byington
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/U-20-World-Cup-Penalty-Drama,-Drama,-Drama/-445502131256285836.html
2011-08-12T14:49:00Z
2011-08-12T14:49:00Z
<p class="Body">The FIFA U-20 World Cup’s round of sixteen will live long in memory for one reason: penalty kicks. Of the eight knockout games, no less than five were decided by spot kicks. Yes, five. “Penalty Tuesday” as it’s been dubbed featured all four matches coming down to penalties, whilst a solitary game yesterday was decided by the pressure cooker of a penalty shoot out. Yet, surprisingly, out of the madness came no upsets as all the favorites progressed.</p>
<p class="Body"> </p>
<p class="Body">Host nation, Columbia, continued their march towards the final but only just. <em>Los Cafeteros</em> were forced to pull off a heroic fight back against a deserving Costa Rican side. James Rodriguez calmed his nerves in the 93 minute to hit home the winning goal from the penalty spot, and the victory set-up a quarterfinal match against Mexico, who overcame Cameroon 3-0 on penalties.</p>
<p class="Body"> </p>
<p class="Body">Portugal and Argentina are set to meet in the quarters as well after a Nelson Oliveira PK was enough to see Portugal through and two 12-yard conversions from Erik Lamela continued <em>La Albiceleste </em>unbeaten run. The boys from Argentina have now gone 17 matches unbeaten in the FIFA U-20 World Cup, just one shy of Brazil’s record set between 1989 and 1995.</p>
<p class="Body"> </p>
<p class="Body">Wednesday’s matches saw some return to normalcy as only one match was decided from the spot. Lady-luck was with South Korea against a much better Spanish side as the match ended 0-0 at full-time. Yet the Korean Republic was forsaken by their fickle mistress eventually loosing 7-6 after Kyung Jung sent his spot-kick high and wide.</p>
<p class="Body"> </p>
<p class="Body">Elsewhere, France pulled out a 1-0 win over Ecuador, and a toothless England exited the tournament having failed to score a goal or win a game after loosing 1-0 to Nigeria. While the tournament’s failure is not surprising given the lack of administrative support from the F.A., the loss still extended England’s winless run in the U-20s to 14 matches. For a supposed top footballing nation it is a grave misstep to not take seriously the U-20s. The growing failure of England’s performances at the youth level is proving clear evidence of the F.A’s preference to line their pockets in the present rather than invest in the future.</p>
<p class="Body"> </p>
<p class="Body">Conversely, Brazil are once again proving to be a nation knowledgeable of the future as their young men reviled in some samba class while putting three second-half goals past Egypt. <em>A Seleção’s </em>performance was easily the best of the round, full of creativity, flair and entertainment. It was a display truly worthy of the yellow and blue jersey.</p>
<p class="Body"><em> </em></p>
<p class="Body">So as it stands the quarterfinals will be played out as such:</p>
<p class="Body"> </p>
<p class="Body"><strong>Saturday, August 13</strong></p>
<p class="Body">Mexico vs. Colombia*</p>
<p class="Body">Portugal vs. Argentina</p>
<p class="Body"> </p>
<p class="Body"><strong>Sunday, August 14</strong></p>
<p class="Body">Brazil vs. Spain*</p>
<p class="Body">France vs. Nigeria</p>
<p class="Body"> </p>
<p class="Body">The obvious must-see match from this lineup is Brazil-Spain, which has every bit of potential to be an epic affair; however, Mexico-Columbia should also be a great match. The home support for Columbia has been magnificent thus far and another sell-out crowd in Bogota will undoubtedly lift this match. Columbia has been playing entertaining, attacking football as Luis Muriel and Rodriguez continue to showcase buckets of talent.</p>
<p class="Body"> </p>
<p class="Body">Predictions then for these matches:</p>
<p class="Body"><strong> </strong></p>
<p class="Body"><em>Mexico vs. Colombia</em> - Columbia have been inspired by their home support and the attacking prowess of Muriel and Rodriguez will be too much for Mexico - <strong>2-1 Columbia</strong></p>
<p class="Body"> </p>
<p class="Body"><em>Portugal vs. Argentina</em> - Both of these teams have yet to really hit their stride. Portugal has had very little going forward, and I expect Argentina’s individual talent will be enough get them through. Won’t be a classic though - <strong>1-0 Argentina</strong></p>
<p class="Body"><strong> </strong></p>
<p class="Body"><em>Brazil vs. Spain - </em>Tough to call but I feel Brazil are the form team in this tie. Their teamwork coupled with the classic samba footy of old gives <em>A Seleção</em> the edge . . . but just barely - <strong>3-2 Brazil</strong></p>
<p class="Body"> </p>
<p class="Body"><em>France vs. Nigeria</em> - African nations have had great history at the U-20s and I don’t think France has shown enough to buck this trend as Nigeria are an imposing team. The Super Eagles have put 13 goals past their opponents in this tournament while only conceding twice - <strong>2-0 Nigeria</strong></p>
<p class="Body"> </p>
<p class="Body">That’s right, no more penalty drama. After “Penalty Tuesday’s” ridiculousness, we can only hope . . . but this is football after all so who really knows?</p>
Scotty Byington
2011-08-12T14:49:00Z
Arda Turan..Turkish Wonderkid finally leaves nest
Aydin Reyhan
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Arda-Turan..Turkish-Wonderkid-finally-leaves-nest/-40716798478017906.html
2011-08-12T04:08:00Z
2011-08-12T04:08:00Z
<p>The world focuses on the players that play in the top European leagues. Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi, and Wayne Rooney are just a few of the top players the world has to offer. However there is one player that most have never even heard of—Arda Turan.</p>
<p>For the past 12 years, Arda embarked on an unforgettable journey with the most prestigious club in Turkey, Galatasaray. He rose through their youth system and eventually wore the honorable number 10 and captain’s arm band at the tender age of 22. With that in mind, it is difficult to forget the first time he suited up for the Lions in a competitive game.</p>
<p>In August 2006, Mlada Boleslav played guest to Galatasaray and the 19 year old Arda Turan was shockingly placed in the starting 11. At the time, it was unbelievable how a youngster was given a chance in a very important game. However his performance answered anyone in doubt.</p>
<p>He was bursting with confidence and he didn’t show any signs of fear. He scored two goals and added an assist to showcase his jaw dropping performance. The second goal he scored saw him in a one on one situation with the defender who had the keeper covering his back. Their tactic didn’t work as Arda calmly slotted the ball home into the bottom right corner.</p>
<p>He was 19 in his first ever European and he played like a veteran. It was a performance that will forever be etched into the hearts of Galatasaray fans. However he is more than just a club player.</p>
<p>One of his best performances ever for his beloved nation of Turkey arrived in the second group stage match against hosts Switzerland in EURO 2008. The game was tied at one apiece and Arda Turan struck a stunning winner in added time for the win. He cut past a few defenders and placed the ball accurately into the top corner.</p>
<p>Then in the final group game, Turkey was down 2-0 heading into the final fifteen and he scored the first goal that led to the amazing comeback victory. His presence, youth, energy, and leadership were felt at both club and international level.</p>
<p>Now the time has finally come for “great captain” Arda to leave the familiar nest. After months of speculation regarding his transfer out of the Turkish Super League, he has finally joined Atletico Madrid of Spain’s top flight. He will be greatly missed by his club but will continue to shine for his country.</p>
<p>When he first began playing for Gala, he was excited to play. After 5-6 successful seasons, he has lost his appetite for Turkish soccer. He had issues with the media regarding his personal life as well so he decided it was time to go abroad.</p>
<p>Spain’s La Liga is regarded as one of the top 3 leagues in the world and the style of play is rapid. He is very quick, has a good touch, and has brilliant vision. The problem is that he hasn’t been showing his talents too much towards the end of his stint with Gala. Will he be able to regain and maybe even improve his form in Spain?</p>
<p>In order to get quality playing time, he needs to work much harder than he ever has. There is a lot more running, passing, and defending in La Liga. For him to impress the coach, he needs to get into top shape in order to provide a full ninety minutes on the field.</p>
<p>If he succeeds in Spain, it will be a huge stepping stone in Turkish soccer. Young Turkish players may follow in his footsteps to better leagues across Europe and make names for themselves. What they learn in Europe could be useful in improving the Turkish national team.</p>
<p>This will be a tough season for Galatasaray as they now seek a replacement for the star pupil. They have quality players in Selcuk Inan and Kazim Richards but Arda Turan’s presence will certainly be missed.</p>
<p>Atletico Madrid has signed a player that will provide a spark after some time. Patience is the key for both player and club but if he works hard, Arda will succeed. </p>
<p> </p>
Aydin Reyhan
2011-08-12T04:08:00Z
Old Rivals Meet Early - A Must For Football Lovers
A.J. Nelson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Old-Rivals-Meet-Early---A-Must-For-Football-Lovers/266583642908228658.html
2011-08-12T02:08:00Z
2011-08-12T02:08:00Z
<p class="RBNBasicNoSpace">Liverpool/Everton, City/United, Celtic/Rangers, Red Sox/Yankees, Redskins/Cowboys, AC/Inter: Depending on where (and sometimes when) you grew up, you have drawn the line and made the choice - there is a team you love and a team you hate. Most of these rivalries, however strong, pale in comparison to El Clásico - Real Madrid vs. Barcelona. The political, cultural and historical rift between these two runs so deep that close friends who celebrated with hugs and tears upon winning the World Cup were close to blows a few months later.</p>
<p class="RBNBasicNoSpace">This year, the La Liga season will start with a bang. The Supercopa de España (Spanish Super Cup) will give us two El Clásico games in the span of a week. The first leg will be held at the Santiago Bernabéu on Sunday, August 14<sup>th</sup>, followed by the second at the Camp Nou on Wednesday, August 17<sup>th</sup>. Although the matches have zero impact on the La Liga season or the Champions League (trophies coveted for both teams), the Super Cup’s underlying bragging rights could have a lasting impact on the winner and loser. This will be the first chance for silverware for both teams and a chance for the coaches to strategize before their first La Liga game in December. For fans of football, it will be a chance to watch the best of the best in action. Plus, if this past weekend’s Community Shield game between Manchester City and Manchester United is any indication, it will be a hotly contested and likely not so friendly set of matches. </p>
<p class="RBNBasicNoSpace">It has been more than 10 years since Real Madrid and Barcelona have faced each other in the Super Cup (Real Madrid won that year, but Barcelona took the Cup and the La Liga title). In recent years, Real Madrid has played runner up to Barcelona in most competitions, a fact that does not sit well in the Spanish capital. Hopes were high last season with the arrival of the “Special One”, José Mourinho, but a 5-0 thrashing by Barcelona in November did not start the Mourinho era well. In the end, Los Blancos would lose both the La Liga title and the Champions League to Barcelona. Madrid’s win over Barcelona in the Copa del Rey helped ease the pain, but one would guess they are hungry for more than that title this season.</p>
<p class="RBNBasicNoSpace">The Super Cup chances look strong for Real Madrid if Karim Benzema’s scoring continues. His eight goals tie him for the top goal scorer in Europe in the preseason (along with Bayern Munich’s Nils Petersen). The return of a healthy Gonzalo Higuaín will give Real Madrid additional scoring options and, well, there is that other player, you may have heard of him, Cristiano Ronaldo. He has some potential to score a goal or two. Rumors of an additional forward would shore up any deficit that might occur due to injury, but if these three continue improving as the season progresses, additional players will not be needed. As a side note, although he has received a great deal of attention, Madrid’s new seven year old signing (Leonel Angel Coira) will not be appearing this season. It appears the other youngster in Madrid’s sights, Neymar, will also not be appearing (at least not in 2011).</p>
<p class="RBNBasicNoSpace">If anyone has concerns about Los Blancos depth in certain areas, in the midfield, there is no question that the wealth of options is staggering. Any Liverpool supporter will tell you that Xabi Alonso alone is worth his weight in gold, but when your midfielder list includes Kaká, Ángel Di María, Mesut Özil, Sami Khedira, Esteban Granero and Marcelo (coming off his best season yet), you almost feel bad at the tough decisions Mourinho has to make (almost). The addition of José Callejon, Nuri Sahin and Hamit Altintop, once all are healthy, should add exciting new talent to the roster.</p>
<p class="RBNBasicNoSpace">On the defensive side, Sergio Ramos’ back injury could prove a problem. The long term extent of the injury is yet to be determined, but with veterans like Pepe and Carvalho, diverse players like Álvaro Arbeloa and Raúl Albiol, along with the newly-signed Fábio Coenträo and Raphaël Varane, Madrid should have enough coverage on defense even if Ramos’ recovery is slow. They have the added comfort that when all else fails, Iker Casillas is waiting between the posts. He bailed Madrid out of several defensive messes last season and there is no doubt, if needed, he is up for the challenge again.</p>
<p class="RBNBasicNoSpace">On the Barcelona front, questions about Xavi’s and Puyol’s fitness, the lingering doubts about Cesc Fabregas joining the squad (as of this writing at least), the departure of Bojan Krkiæ, the recent return of key players (most significantly Messi and Alves) from the Copa América, and a less than stellar preseason call in to doubt Barcelona’s fitness as well as their ability to start the La Liga season strong. However, it is difficult to have any reservations about their ability when you watch their style of play on the field (even without key players). The addition of Alexis Sánchez and Thiago Alcântara should make things interesting and no matter how strong one feels about Real Madrid’s ability, Barcelona is the team that knows how to beat them.</p>
<p>Upon returning from opposite sides of the world (Barcelona wrapping up the preseason in the United States and Real Madrid in China), full attention has returned to these great clubs and their longstanding rivalry. Rumors will continue to abound, match fitness will continue to be debated, and Mourinho and Barcelona’s coach, Pep Guardiola, will likely make statements that the press will misconstrue. You know it, I know it and Mourinho knows it. In his press conference following the game against Tianjin in China, he was quoted as saying: “I said the squad was short the other day because I wanted it to be short. It doesn’t mean I need players, but later you will read in the Spanish press that Mourinho wants more players. It could be that my English is better than my Spanish.” I am not going to even try to figure out his relationship with the Spanish press, but it appears he has figured out his relationship with his players and if the preseason is any indication, we are in for quite a ride.</p>
<p class="RBNBasicNoSpace">For fans of both teams, the Spanish Super Cup offers a tasty morsel of quality football before the La Liga season properly begins. Both teams include superstars, including a majority of the Spanish National Team, but it is not only the superstars that make the Spanish Super Cup something to watch. The fact that both teams have over 100 years of history (Barcelona forming in 1899 and Real Madrid in 1902), and a rivalry that has existed for nearly that long, guarantees an exciting and tense battle on Sunday evening (and again on Wednesday). Regardless of what side you have chosen, Real Madrid vs. Barcelona is a spectacle to behold. If you are a football fan, take the time to watch.</p>
A.J. Nelson
2011-08-12T02:08:00Z
Klinsmann Unveiled to Media
Casey Keirnan
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Klinsmann-Unveiled-to-Media/838364365170980550.html
2011-08-11T22:00:00Z
2011-08-11T22:00:00Z
<div>Jurgen Klinsmann believes his “deep connection” with American soccer will ensure he makes a success of his new role in charge of the United States men’s national team.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>The former German international and World Cup record-breaker addressed the media for the first time Thursday following US Soccer’s announcement last week that he would replace Bob Bradley.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>“There has always been the feeling that one day I would get the opportunity to coach the USA,” Klinsmann said in his opening press conference. “I took over Germany through the World Cup and spent a year with Bayern Munich but I’ve always stayed…deeply connected with the U.S. game.”</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Klinsmann, who has his home in Newport Beach, Ca., has long been seen by many as the perfect candidate for the job – an ex-player with a foreign pedigree who also has his finger on the pulse of American soccer. But the question of how he will fare as manager of the often over-achieving USA side still hangs in the air.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>“Every national team coach has his own way of doing things and his own ideas,” Klinsmann said. “What I want to do over the next months is to get as much information as possible to understand the culture within the federation and its resources. This will take a lot of talk and exploration with coaches and others involved in the American game.”</div>
<div> </div>
<div>That exploration should be undertaken with some care. The attacking style which Klinsmann employed so gracefully as a player did not serve him so well as manager of German giant Bayern and soccer is littered with former superstar players whose managerial performances failed to reach a similar level.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>His first big test, no doubt, will come against European power-house France.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>“I hope the French have a good turnout and that the fans will enjoy seeing their team do the best they can…we will give them a real battle and will definitely try to beat them.” Klinsmann spoke these words with confidence and it will certainly be quite a feat if he can translate this confidence to his team, which will be facing recent European Cup and World Cup holders France.</div>
Casey Keirnan
2011-08-11T22:00:00Z
Little Man; Big Story - The Story of Diego Buonanotte
Ed Malyon
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Little-Man;-Big-Story---The-Story-of-Diego-Buonanotte/211703100957392296.html
2011-08-11T15:00:00Z
2011-08-11T15:00:00Z
<a href="http://t.co/p9hIrYx"></a>
<p>It is not entirely surprising that any player nicknamed the dwarf is a bit on the short side. At 1.61m (5ft 3 inches), Buonanotte is a diminutive playmaker who has always had to make up for what he lacks in height with pure ability. It’s over five years now since he made his debut for River Plate, and having finally made the move to Europe, it seems that this could be the Argentine’s time to shine.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>In 2008 and 2009, few would have believed it would take so long for ‘el enano’ to make the big move across the Atlantic but in December 2009 Buonanotte was involved in a fatal car crash in which he was the driver. His three friends in the car all died whilst he survived with multiple serious injuries. He took a while to return to football and his absence could even be attributed as a factor in the relegation of his beloved River Plate, due to the nature of the three-year points average system that decides who drops out of the Argentine top flight.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>When he returned to the side, it was earlier than predicted and seen as desperation given that the ‘millionarios’ were on a run of five consective defeats – without scoring a goal. Their season improved slightly but he then had little input in the 2010/11 season. River manager JJ Lopez oversaw the demise of the Argentine giants as they lost three vital games at the end of the season to slide into the second tier. He had completely discarded little Diego by the end, preferring to use Mauro Diaz – who hadn’t featured in over eight months – as a substitute, and completely leaving ‘el enano’ out of the squad for the relegation playoffs against Belgrano.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Following agreeing a move to Malaga that would come into effect in June, his relationship with the fans began to deteriorate. Erik Lamela was the new golden boy and sharing a role, every mistake Buonanotte made – whether shooting instead of a pass or vice versa – was met with audible displeasure by the River ‘hinchada’. By the end of the season, many fans were desperate for his return but it was too late, and he watched on from the stands as his team from the age of eleven was relegated:</p>
<p> </p>
<p>“I just wanted to help, to play for River, the team I am a fan of… I believed I could save them from relegation”</p>
<p> </p>
<p>However Buonanotte is now in new surroundings and the change of scenery could be exactly what he needed. Given his amazing pre-season form with the Andalucian outfit, he looks set to thrive with a fresh start, his natural ability is still there and with an ocean now between him and a tumultuous few years in Argentina, €3m is a price so teeny it’s almost fitting for the dwarf.</p>
Ed Malyon
2011-08-11T15:00:00Z
The Idiots Guide to the Carling Cup.
Rick Fitzgerald
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/The-Idiots-Guide-to-the-Carling-Cup./-208714706088392548.html
2011-08-11T05:20:00Z
2011-08-11T05:20:00Z
<div dir="ltr"> </div>
<div dir="ltr"><span style="color: #000000; font-family: Tahoma; font-size: x-small;">Premier League? Blah...</span></div>
<div dir="ltr"> </div>
<div dir="ltr"><span style="color: #000000; font-family: Tahoma; font-size: x-small;">UEFA Champions League? Booooring...</span></div>
<div dir="ltr"> </div>
<div dir="ltr"><span style="color: #000000; font-family: Tahoma; font-size: x-small;">FA Cup? Puh-leeeassse!</span></div>
<div dir="ltr"> </div>
<div dir="ltr"><span style="color: #000000; font-family: Tahoma; font-size: x-small;"><span id="OBJ_PREFIX_DWT583_com_zimbra_date" class="Object">Today</span> I would like to talk about the best competition of them all, the Carling Cup! Now I know that some of you might think I've overdosed on my Flintstone Vitamins but I assure you that is not the case. I know as well as you that the Carling Cup is, essentially, the red-headed step child of the silverware world. That being said, like that red-headed step child, the Carling Cup needs some love too. So <span id="OBJ_PREFIX_DWT584_com_zimbra_date" class="Object">today</span> we are going to take a quick look at this obscure cup filled with lots of teams you may have never heard of. Hopefully, by the end of this Idiot's Guide, you will have a greater appreciation for this competition and not be so wary of watching it on TV.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr"> </div>
<div dir="ltr"><span style="color: #000000; font-family: Tahoma; font-size: x-small;">You know how sometimes you open your fridge and move the butter and see, there in the back, that forgotten and sealed </span><span style="color: #000000; font-family: Tahoma; font-size: x-small;">container of - who knows what? Some left over from when you were watching the last Summer Olympics? There is a bit of </span><span style="color: #000000; font-family: Tahoma; font-size: x-small;">fear in your eyes as you realize that at some point you are going to have to peel the lid back and see what is inside if </span><span style="color: #000000; font-family: Tahoma; font-size: x-small;">for no other reason than just to see what it is, or was. So you work up the nerve, grab the container, close your eyes and </span><span style="color: #000000; font-family: Tahoma; font-size: x-small;">slowly - ever so slowly - snap the lid off only to find it was a container of Jello that didn't go bad. This is like the </span><span style="color: #000000; font-family: Tahoma; font-size: x-small;">Carling Cup. Think of it as your personal cup of Jello. While at first it may seem like a container full of crap, once you actually take a look at it you'l find that it's not bad to watch at all. Let me explain...</span></div>
<div dir="ltr"> </div>
<div dir="ltr"><span style="color: #000000; font-family: Tahoma; font-size: x-small;">A lot of people don't like watching the Carling Cup for several valid reasons. The teams are no names. There's never any </span><span style="color: #000000; font-family: Tahoma; font-size: x-small;">matches on TV. It doesn't mean anything. The crowds and pitches are small and unimpressive. The play is sloppy. I'm </span><span style="color: #000000; font-family: Tahoma; font-size: x-small;">sure I could go on. But there are fixes to all these problems, it is just a matter of adjusting your perspective. Before </span><span style="color: #000000; font-family: Tahoma; font-size: x-small;">we do that, lets dip a little into the history of the cup.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr"> </div>
<div dir="ltr"><span style="color: #000000; font-family: Tahoma; font-size: x-small;">Way back in the day, and by that I mean the 60's, stadiums were being outfitted with floodlights. The addition of these </span><span style="color: #000000; font-family: Tahoma; font-size: x-small;">lights gave clubs the ability to play night games. As this ability grew, the powers that be decided to play mid-week </span><span style="color: #000000; font-family: Tahoma; font-size: x-small;">matches in the form of this cup. Now at that time, it was called the Football League Cup and not everyone showed up to </span><span style="color: #000000; font-family: Tahoma; font-size: x-small;">play. As time passed, the competition was named after whoever the current sponsor was. As a result, we've had such </span><span style="color: #000000; font-family: Tahoma; font-size: x-small;">doozies as the Littlewoods Challenge Cup, Rumbelows Cup and my personal favorite, the Milk Cup. I'm not sure but I don't </span><span style="color: #000000; font-family: Tahoma; font-size: x-small;">think there is any way to sound cool saying, "I just won the Milk Cup!" </span></div>
<div dir="ltr"><span style="color: #000000; font-family: Tahoma; font-size: x-small;"> </span></div>
<div dir="ltr"><span style="color: #000000; font-family: Tahoma; font-size: x-small;">This new cup was having a problem with participation. The bigger clubs saw no reason to join since they had other </span></div>
<div dir="ltr"><span style="color: #000000; font-family: Tahoma; font-size: x-small;">silverware to worry about. What was the point in injuring star players for a cup that didn't matter? Seeing this </span></div>
<div dir="ltr"><span style="color: #000000; font-family: Tahoma; font-size: x-small;">problem, the Football League added the extra bonus that whoever wins their cup gets an automatic bid in the UEFA Cup, a </span><span style="color: #000000; font-family: Tahoma; font-size: x-small;">much more prestigious competition. This bait was enough to lure bigger clubs into the pen and the Football League Cup was </span><span style="color: #000000; font-family: Tahoma; font-size: x-small;">well underway, fat with teams. This bait, however, was challenged with the advent of the UEFA Champions League. It was </span><span style="color: #000000; font-family: Tahoma; font-size: x-small;">thought that the Football League would lose its bid for placement in the UEFA Cup. As of <span id="OBJ_PREFIX_DWT585_com_zimbra_date" class="Object">today</span>, this has not happened and </span><span style="color: #000000; font-family: Tahoma; font-size: x-small;">the cup has continued to enjoy membership from all around England.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr"> </div>
<div dir="ltr"><span style="color: #000000; font-family: Tahoma; font-size: x-small;">So why watch the cup? I have already identified several concerns right? Ok, lets look at them. Too many teams that no </span><span style="color: #000000; font-family: Tahoma; font-size: x-small;">one has heard of. That is valid. Unknown teams means unknown players. This is something that can change. When I first </span><span style="color: #000000; font-family: Tahoma; font-size: x-small;">started watching football about (mumble) years ago, I had NO idea who was who. Only through watching and my love of the </span><span style="color: #000000; font-family: Tahoma; font-size: x-small;">sport was I able to acquaint myself with the clubs and players. Lower league ball is no different. It only takes time </span><span style="color: #000000; font-family: Tahoma; font-size: x-small;">and some paying attention. As far as the unknown teams, it doesn't take you memorizing all the teams, just familiarize </span><span style="color: #000000; font-family: Tahoma; font-size: x-small;">yourself with them in the event you happen to see them again.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr"><span style="color: #000000; font-family: Tahoma; font-size: x-small;">No matches are televised. This is not true. There are channels on TV that do show Carling Cup matches. As a matter of </span><span style="color: #000000; font-family: Tahoma; font-size: x-small;">fact, in this day and age there are plenty of places to go to watch a match. So finding a match either on TV or on the net </span><span style="color: #000000; font-family: Tahoma; font-size: x-small;">is not as hard as it used to be. You just need to look around.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr"> </div>
<div dir="ltr"><span style="color: #000000; font-family: Tahoma; font-size: x-small;">Small clubs, small pitches, no named players. I see this as a plus. Watching 1,000 avid, raving fans cheer on their tiny </span><span style="color: #000000; font-family: Tahoma; font-size: x-small;">squad is sometimes better than watching the big boys box it out. It's like watching college football, you see a group of </span><span style="color: #000000; font-family: Tahoma; font-size: x-small;">teams that are still fighting to make it to the top. Sure their play isn't always as crisp as say a Man U or a Chelsea, </span><span style="color: #000000; font-family: Tahoma; font-size: x-small;">but that is a small issue when compared to the other joys of watching these lower level clubs in action.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr"><span style="color: #000000; font-family: Tahoma; font-size: x-small;">Another big plus, and my favorite, is the upset. In round one of the Carling Cup, we see teams from the Npower in action. </span><span style="color: #000000; font-family: Tahoma; font-size: x-small;">It's mainly Championship, League One and League Two clubs battling it out. So far we have already seen some interesting </span><span style="color: #000000; font-family: Tahoma; font-size: x-small;">scores. How about Hull City losing to Macclesfield? West Ham drawing against lowley Aldershot Town? Or how about the </span><span style="color: #000000; font-family: Tahoma; font-size: x-small;">nail biting Forest v Notts match where six goals were scored? In round two, we see the insertion on Prem clubs. Again, </span><span style="color: #000000; font-family: Tahoma; font-size: x-small;">things here are bound to get interesting as your little fish take on the big ones, sometimes in their own backyard. You </span><span style="color: #000000; font-family: Tahoma; font-size: x-small;">have to admit, there is some joy in watching a Bournemouth take out an Everton especially since one Everton player probably </span><span style="color: #000000; font-family: Tahoma; font-size: x-small;">costs as much as the entire Bournemouth squad.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr"> </div>
<div dir="ltr"><span style="color: #000000; font-family: Tahoma; font-size: x-small;">In closing, I hope I have given you some things to think about. Don't pass by the Carling Cup the next time you see it on </span><span style="color: #000000; font-family: Tahoma; font-size: x-small;">your cable's menu page. Stop and have a look. I think you'll really enjoy the small club feel! And now, a few </span></div>
<div dir="ltr"><span style="color: #000000; font-family: Tahoma; font-size: x-small;">interesting notes:</span></div>
<div dir="ltr"> </div>
<div dir="ltr"><span style="color: #000000; font-family: Tahoma; font-size: x-small;">Did you know Liverpool has won the Football League Cup more than anyone (7).</span></div>
<div dir="ltr"> </div>
<div dir="ltr"><span style="color: #000000; font-family: Tahoma; font-size: x-small;">The biggest defeat in cup history was West Ham over Bury. West Ham pounded in 10 goals while Bury failed to get even one </span><span style="color: #000000; font-family: Tahoma; font-size: x-small;">in the net.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr"> </div>
<div dir="ltr"><span style="color: #000000; font-family: Tahoma; font-size: x-small;">Everton, Bolton and West Ham have all managed to reach the finals twice but have not won the cup.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr"> </div>
<div dir="ltr"><span style="color: #000000; font-family: Tahoma; font-size: x-small;">Last year, Birmingham beat Arsenal 2-1 in the cup final securing another year of no silver for the Gunners. (This fact is </span><span style="color: #000000; font-family: Tahoma; font-size: x-small;">dedicated to my brother who is a Gooner.) </span></div>
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<div dir="ltr"><span style="color: #000000; font-family: Tahoma; font-size: x-small;">Finally, I realize that it may be hard to follow the Npower League. While there are channels on TV and the net that show </span><span style="color: #000000; font-family: Tahoma; font-size: x-small;">them, sometimes they can be difficult to find. As that is the case, it may be hard to learn about clubs, who their players </span><span style="color: #000000; font-family: Tahoma; font-size: x-small;">are, their rivalries and what makes them special. Over the next few weeks I will be adding a feature called, "Getting to </span><span style="color: #000000; font-family: Tahoma; font-size: x-small;">Know Your Npower." I will take one lesser known team and throw out some tidbits to help acqaint you with them. This will </span><span style="color: #000000; font-family: Tahoma; font-size: x-small;">be in addition to the regular blog about whatever news is happening in the league. The first team we will take a look at </span><span style="color: #000000; font-family: Tahoma; font-size: x-small;">is Doncaster. Who? You ask? Exactly! That is why we will take a look at the Rovers! In the meantime, find those round </span><span style="color: #000000; font-family: Tahoma; font-size: x-small;">one Carling replays, kick back and check them out. I think you'll be pleasantly surprised.</span></div>
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<div dir="ltr"><span style="color: #000000; font-family: Tahoma; font-size: x-small;">Till next time - </span></div>
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<div dir="ltr"><span style="color: #000000; font-family: Tahoma; font-size: x-small;">Be safe, take care</span></div>
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<div dir="ltr"><span style="color: #000000; font-family: Tahoma; font-size: x-small;">twitter @undefeatedarmy </span></div>
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Rick Fitzgerald
2011-08-11T05:20:00Z
Tottenham vs Everton: Preview
Sam Rooke
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Tottenham-vs-Everton:-Preview/368498427553530334.html
2011-08-11T02:09:00Z
2011-08-11T02:09:00Z
<p>Tottenham will welcome Everton to the Lane for the first game of season 2011-12 as both clubs look to improve on last season’s efforts. Spurs are looking to return to Europe’s top table; not satisfied with Europa League football. Everton too, will be unhappy with their final league placing last season, though a late season surge did see them push Liverpool for 6<sup>th</sup> place.</p>
<p><em>History never repeats</em></p>
<p>Last season, this fixture finished a 1-1 draw and Everton won the away fixture 2-1. Over the longer term, Spurs have had a very strong record against Everton in the Premier League period. They have gained more points against the Toffees than any other club in this era. In the most recent clash, the Goodison fixture last season, Spurs were out-enthused from the kick off and second best throughout. Everton’s robust approach meant that Spurs never looked like winning, despite created 11 scoring chances.</p>
<p>Last season, both sides scored and conceded similar numbers of goals despite the 8 point gap in the final standings. Spurs never won by more than 2 and finished with more 2-1 wins than any other team.</p>
<p><em>Absentees</em></p>
<p>Spurs will be pleased that Seamus Coleman will be missing the match due to ankle ligament damage. He had a stormer against Spurs at Goodison in January, scoring the winner and tormenting Tottenham down their left. Assou-Ekotto was singled out for criticism after his performance.</p>
<p>Pienaar will also miss the clash with his former club, ruled out for 6 week with a groin injury. So too, Sandro, who will continue his knee rehab and miss the opening day.</p>
<p><em>Running Battles</em></p>
<p>Several key duels will be vital in determining the outcome of this match. Leighton Baines against Tottenham’s right back (likely Walker) is among the key clashes. Stopping Baines will go a long way towards shutting down Everton’s attack. His 5 goals, 11 assists and 63 chances created put him among the top attacking players in the league. Walker is notable for his own surges forward. This, when paired with Lennon’s attacking threat may be sufficient to peg Baines back. If not, Lennon and Walker are not well known for their defensive quality; they may have trouble stopping the Evertonian fullback from causing havoc.</p>
<p>Also of note is Bale against Neville. In this fixture last season, Neville was highly successful in stopping Bale. He defended deep, giving Bale no room to run into. Bale’s passing on that occasion was poor, completing only 56% of all passes and none of his 9 attempted crosses. He was also below average in creating only 1 chance. When Spurs met Everton at home in the season before last, it was Bale who ran the game, winning man of the match honours from left back. The Welshman is Spurs’ favoured attacking outlet and will be sure to see plenty of the ball. If he can produce his best form, Spurs should have too much for Everton</p>
<p>As always, Tim Cahill will be a major threat for Everton, his midweek goal for Australia demonstrates that he is in good touch. He will be a handful at set pieces and a constant aerial presence.</p>
<p><em>And the Winner Is…</em></p>
<p>Spurs and Everton do have similar players in many positions; Van der Vaart and Cahill, Modric and Arteta and Bale and Baines (Left side). It should make for a balanced match, though Tottenham are heavily favoured by the bookmakers. Spurs have started well in recent seasons while Everton have been often slow to get going. With that in mind, Spurs should be able to take the points in a closely contested match.</p>
<p> </p>
Sam Rooke
2011-08-11T02:09:00Z
One Life to Live - The Manchester City Soap Opera
Branham Biggers
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/One-Life-to-Live---The-Manchester-City-Soap-Opera/494837885779933697.html
2011-08-11T00:20:00Z
2011-08-11T00:20:00Z
Balotelli. Tevez. Bellamy. Adebayor. Santa Cruz. Mancini. I wondered <em><strong>how</strong></em> in the world all of these egos could co-exist at one club, and <em><strong>why</strong></em> in the world would that club want to put up with all of the drama that would accompany this lot. Then it hit me. Brilliant. Manchester City is actually targeting a new demographic of fan: the 18-49 year old female viewers in the United States, as two of the longest running Soap Operas in television history have been cancelled by ABC. "One Life to Live" and "All My Children" have been shown TV's version of a red card, but never fear, there will be more twists, turns, laughs, tears and rocky relationships at the Eastlands this year than any soap opera could provide! <br /><br />Joking aside, Manchester City fans are teeming with optimism entering the 2011-2012 campaign. Last season was mission accomplished. The trophy drought was halted with the winning of the FA Cup, and the ultimate prize of the Champion's League was obtained with a third place league finish. Sheikh Mansour and the Abu Dhabi group have the deep pockets to splash the cash, and the pieces have been put in place to make a run at the Barclay's Premier League crown this time around. <br /><br /><br /><strong>Players In:</strong> Sergio Aguero-ST (Atletico Madrid) Costel Pantilimon-GK (FC Timisoara) Stefan Savic-CB (Partizan Belgrade) Gael Clichy-LB (Arsenal)<br /><br /><strong>Players Out: </strong>Michael Johnson-CB (Leicester City, Loan) Jerome Boateng-RB (Bayern Munich) Jo-ST (Internacional) Shay Given-GK (Aston Villa)<br /><br /><strong>Rumored In</strong>: Just about every big name footballer on the planet, but the ones with some traction are Samir Nasri-CM (Arsenal) or Wesley Sneijder-CM (Inter)<br /><br /><strong>Rumored Out</strong>: It's no secret that Emmanuel Adebayor (Real Madrid) Craig Bellamy (Cardiff) and Roque Santa Cruz are not in Mancini's plans for the season, so City might have to find a team willing to take them on loan. But the biggest question of all is the status of 2011 captain Carlos Tevez, who kissed the Man City badge last year during a campaign that saw him tie for the Golden Boot with 20 goals in the league. Can Mancini make nice, or will Tevez be off to Inter Milan?<br /><br /><br /><strong>Key Players</strong>: <em><strong>Joe Hart</strong></em>-GK (Can Hart continue to improve and mature, as last season saw him rise to the number one spot for both club and country.) <em><strong>Vincent Kompany</strong></em>-CB (The Belgian will need to be the stalwart that he has shown in the past, and be the leader that City needs, now that he has been given the captain's armband. No more mistakes like the one that led to Nani's winner in the Community Shield.) <em><strong>David </strong></em><strong></strong><strong>Silva</strong>-F (The Spanish playmaker will need to do exactly that, as that is the one area that City do not have much depth. They posses a ton of brawn and strength in the midfield with De Jong, Toure and Barry, but in order to break down opposing defenses, Silva will be required to thread passes and supply the attack.) <em><strong>Mario </strong><strong>Balotelli</strong></em>-ST (There is no question as to the talent this young Italian possesses, but there are a million questions surrounding his mental make up. If Roberto Mancini can somehow keep Mario calm, the sky is the limit.) <em><strong>Sergio Aguero</strong></em>-ST (The son-in-law of one of the all-time greats, Diego Maradona, joins the Blues this year, and could provide a boatload of goals, depending on how quickly he adjusts to the Premier League. His arrival is of added importance if Tevez ultimately departs.)<br /><br /><br /><strong>Snapshots</strong>: A few quick facts about all things Manchester City:<br />Club was founded in 1880 as St. Marks, and became Manchester City in 1894.<br />Song of Choice: "Blue Moon"<br />Owners: Sheikh Mansour and the Abu Dhabi Investment Group.<br />Stadium: City of Manchester Stadium, known as "Eastlands"<br />League Titles: 2 ('37, '68)<br />FA Cup Titles: 5<br />League Cups: 2<br />Community Shields: 3<br />European Cup-Winners Cup: 1 (1970)<br /><br /><br />All the ingredients make for what could be a fantastic season this year for Manchester City. With the expectations of the fans, and those of the owners, nothing short of a serious push for the League Title and a strong European run in the Champions League will be tolerated. Even Soap Operas have happy endings from time to time, and this could be the year of the Blue Moon Rising. Can City survive the drama? Unlike the two unfortunate soap operas, there is no chance City will be cancelled this year! Stay tuned for all the drama.<br /><br />My prediction: City finish 2nd in the league (Close, but not quite), and make the quarter-finals of the Champions League.<br /><br /><br />Thanks for checking this out, and I'd love to hear your predictions as well. Don't forget to follow me on twitter: <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/@branhambiggers">@branhambiggers</a> <br /><br /><br /><br /><br />
Branham Biggers
2011-08-11T00:20:00Z
Tunnel Chatter
Nash Larson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Tunnel-Chatter/-122873942304702974.html
2011-08-10T19:25:00Z
2011-08-10T19:25:00Z
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">When the USMNT steps out onto the link this evening against Mexico, American soccer fans will be watching the dawn of a new era in American Soccer. The usual suspects will for the most part, be playing right where you think they would, but when it comes to the new-boys, it's a horse of a different color. Some of the names include, Brek Shea of FC Dallas, Omar Gonzalez, Edgar Castillo, Michael Orozco Fiscal and Kyle Beckerman. Many had brief appearances for the squad, but never got a good look in under Bradley's regime. From the 22 men squad their are 7 from MLS, 4 playing for Mexican clubs, and 11 from England and Europe. For me, the most exciting player that will take the field in one form or another is Brek Shea. The dynamic winger is the future of the USMNT wide game, giving excellent showings week-in, week-out in Dallas. I am interested to see what position he occupies if he gets the nod? Hopefully he will start in the left back role, which is entirely possible with the mass of injuries. Primarily a left winger he has been used as a left back on occasion, and has shown brilliantly. FC Dallas coach </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Schellas Hyndman uses him in one, one week and one, another week, but he's</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> consistent in his performances, no matter where he plays.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Here is my projected starting line up for Klinsmann's first match:</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Howard</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Cherundolo </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Bocanegra</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> Ream Pearce</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> </span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Bradley Torres</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Donovan Adu Shea</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Agudelo </span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Here is the Line-up I want to see: " taking into account that Timmy Chandler, and now Clarence Goodson are injured, plus Dempsey and Lichaj are tied to their clubs:"</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Howard</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Cherundolo Bocanegra Ream Shea</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Jones</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> Donovan </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Bradley </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> Adu</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> </span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> Buddle Agudelo</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Be it Jurgen's first game at the helm, I would be surprised to see anything overly poetic from the German. A lot is at stake, if an experiment goes pear shaped, so I figure he plays it safe. Mexico are a fantastic squad, and have a star-studded line up ready to prove once again they're the heavy weight in the CONCACAF region, so some familiarity in the US line-up is a must. Due to personnel loss, the USMNT ,will not have all their starters available, making for a perfect opportunity to give the fringe players a run out.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">If Jurgen is to impress me in this game, win or lose, I require this:</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Freddy Adu starts behind the striker or pushed out to one side. He needs to be our trequartista if have you, that no. 10, allowed to make mazey runs into the box. If Shea occupies the left back spot, he will have free reign to overlap Adu as he cuts inside.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Bradley played way too deep under his fathers control. I Want to see him pushed higher up the field in a more attacking role, box to box, rather than a holder.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">A 2nd striker needs to be played. Agudelo cannot do it on his own, he's too young, inexperienced, and not strong enough. Looking at the roster, Edson Buddle ticks all boxes needed to get the best out of the young Red Bull. At his age Buddle is not one for the future, but if played shows attacking intent from Jurgen, which we need more of.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Prediction: There will be goals, for both sides, rendering it an all to familiar to the finale of the Gold Cup played last month. The final ended 4-2 in Mexico's favor, as once again are defensive frailties cooked our goose. This time it ends, painfully said: 2-1 in Mexico's favor, as our team still struggles to find an identity. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />This and more can be viewed @<br /><br /><br /><a href="http://spotkickjournalism.blogspot.com/">http://spotkickjournalism.blogspot.com/</a><br /><br /><br />Get what's kickin'.</span></p>
Nash Larson
2011-08-10T19:25:00Z
Scotland's Opening Weeks
Sandy Thin
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Scotlands-Opening-Weeks/-526343410710667075.html
2011-08-10T17:08:00Z
2011-08-10T17:08:00Z
<p>The first and probably biggest story came as Rangers saw their dreams of reaching the Champions League Group Stages dashed in Sweden when they went out of the third round of qualifying to the current Swedish champions, Malmo. As a Celtic fan, it was impossible to suppress a smile and a laugh as I looked up the score to find, not only that Rangers had lost 1-0 at Ibrox to the Swedes, but that the player to strike the only goal of the game none other than Larsson... no, not that Larsson but it was close enough for me and all other Celtic fans to whoop with delight. They went on to draw the second leg 1-1 after taking the lead, following two deserved red cards for Steven Whittaker and Madjid Bougherra, who has since moved to Qatari champions, Lekhwiya, for a fee of around £1.7m.</p>
<p>However, putting my Celtic biases aside, the failure to qualify is not only a terrible blow to Rangers but to all of Scottish football, one that will undoubtedly affect Celtic as much as anyone. As the Scottish Champions are now denied automatic entry to the group stage it will become harder and harder for Scottish teams and, aside from a very strong Europa League run from a Scottish club, there is no foreseeable way of Scotland earning back this right. Thankfully, both Rangers and Celtic have very manageable ties for Europa League qualification and will hope to at the very least qualify from their group. Hearts, unfortunately, have been drawn against Tottenham who, even without Modric or any other players that may leave them between now and next week, should sweep Hearts aside with great ease.</p>
<p>This brings me nicely on to the second big story of previous weeks, the sacking of Jim Jeffries as manager of Hearts. His second spell as manager of the Edinburgh club ended just two weeks into the season when Chairman, Vladimir Romanov (known as the Abramovich of Scottish football) decided his time was up after a very respectable draw away to Ibrox and a tight 1-0 loss to Dundee United. Former Sporting Lisbon manager, Paulo Sergio Bento Brito was to be his replacement, the 10<sup>th</sup> manager to be appointed during Romanov’s 7-year spell at the club. He made a flying start, beating Hungarian side, Paks, 4-1 at Tynecastle but his side were found out on Sunday when they lost 1-0 away to Motherwell, leaving them still with only a point from their first three league fixtures.</p>
<p>Celtic resumed play in the league, following a 2 week break in which they played 3 friendlies, with a 1-0 win away to Aberdeen, the victory was marred however by a challenge which resulted in Emilio Izaguirre breaking his ankle which looks set to keep last season’s Player of the Year out of action for 6 months. This could prove a big blow to Celtic as the Honduran left-back provided the spark that took them within a game of clinching last season’s trophy. They will be heartened, however by Rangers’ numerous failed attempts to sign 22 year-old David Goodwillie from Dundee United, who earlier this week completed his £2m move to Blackburn Rovers.</p>
<p>Elsewhere in the league, newly promoted Dunfermline had a thrilling 3-3 draw with Inverness CT, who now sit joint-bottom of the league with St Johnstone, Aberdeen and Hearts, who all have only a point. Motherwell have made a good start sitting a point ahead of Celtic, who have a game in hand, with 7 points from their first three games. Next weekend will see Celtic take on Dundee Utd, Rangers travel to Inverness and Hearts play Aberdeen.</p>
Sandy Thin
2011-08-10T17:08:00Z
The People Beyond the Wall
Rick Fitzgerald
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/The-People-Beyond-the-Wall/-574892347322104893.html
2011-08-10T04:40:00Z
2011-08-10T04:40:00Z
<p class="quote">"Every day you make progress. Every step may be fruitful. Yet there will strecth out before you an ever-lengthening, ever-ascending, ever-improving path. You know you will never get to the end of the journey. But this, so far from discouraging, only adds to the joy and the glory of the climb. - Sir Winston Churchill.<br /><br />Turn on your television and flip to the news. You might see a city burning, police skirmish lines, angry people with raised fists and signs of defiance. For us Californians it brings back stark images of LA in the 90's when one Rodney King was senselessly knocked around by officers who had more adrenaline than common sense one fateful night. And now, over a decade later, we are seeing it again across the pond. <br /><br />Way over here, I do not in any way profess to be an expert as to what is going on over there. I was fortunate enough to be over there last year when Cameron took office and I'll tell you what, I fell in love with that city. I couldn't take two steps without tripping over some historical something that probably outdated any of our U.S. history by 1,000 years. There was so much history that I actually found myself saying, "What's the big deal, that building is only 500 years old!" And now that history is burning.<br /><br />In this time when we should all be completely amped about football and the start of the Prem, and the continuance of the nPower Football League, it is hard to focus on such things when there is turmoil surrounding these fun, but in the big picture, insignificant matches. While footballers take the pitch, other people are returning to their businesses or homes so that they might assess the damage and begin the rebuilding of their lives. While we cheer from way over here, there are some who are facing a real crisis just beyond the walls of our favorite football ground. <br /><br />Is this to say that we should feel guilty? No, that isn't the point of this blog. Having seen what riots and discontent can cause, I think it is important to take a moment and say a prayer or whatever it is you believe in and wish those in London well. In this day and age, when countries all along the Middle East are rioting on a daily basis, it seems no country is safe from an uprising. I think London might have been one of the last countries I would have ever thought would go through this, yet they are and to some serious degree. <br /><br />So please, as you sit down and enjoy the matches this weekend, just remember the people beyond the wall. The rioters, then police and everyone in between. We all hope that this ends quickly and for good. Whatever the differences are, there is always a better way to figure them out. <br /><br />Our thoughts are with you London. Take care and be safe.<br /><br />Twitter @undefeatedarmy<br /><br /> </p>
Rick Fitzgerald
2011-08-10T04:40:00Z
Bumpy Pitch and World Football Daily
Rafa
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Bumpy-Pitch-and-World-Football-Daily/265625020405437275.html
2011-08-09T00:50:00Z
2011-08-09T00:50:00Z
So we've been dancing around these boys for a while now. We brought on Brian Dunseth to talk football over the phone a couple times now. We've even had two guest-hosts come in rocking the Bumpy Pitch T-shirts (which did make us quite jealous). <br /><br />Now, we bring in one of the co-owners of <a title="Bumpy Pitch" href="http://bumpypitch.com/" target="_blank">Bumpy Pitch</a>, Ben Hooper, to give us a little insight into his company and talk a little football as well.<br /><br />We will even be giving away a couple t-shirts to our audience as well. So make sure to tune in. If I can figure out a way to offer a t-shirt or two to our podcasters, you can bet you ass I will do it.<br /><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/tealbunburybpfc.jpg" alt="" width="450" height="366" /><br /><br />Don't you want to be as cool as Teal Bunbury? The only way to do that is rock the same gear. And that's <a title="Bumpy Pitch Store" href="http://store.bumpypitch.com/" target="_blank">Bumpy Pitch Apparel </a><br /><br />You can call in to talk with Kenny and Ben at 310-909-8483. And if you can't call in during the show, no worries... just dial the phone number and leave a message on the Rant Line. Write us at show@worldfootballdaily.com. <br /><br />Follow all the tweets from the World Football Daily on Twitter <a title="@WFootballDaily" href="http://twitter.com/#!/@WFootballDaily" target="_blank">@WFootballDaily</a>. <br /><br />Follow the host of the show, Kenny Hassan <a title="@KennyWFDLive" href="http://twitter.com/#!/KennyWFDlive" target="_blank">@KennyWFDlive</a>.<br /><br /><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/herculezgomezxphilly.jpg" alt="" width="451" height="301" /><br /><br />Even our guests rock this stuff. So you should too.<br /><br /><br />
Rafa
2011-08-09T00:50:00Z
Onward and Upward - The U-20s Continue
Scott Byington
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Onward-and-Upward---The-U-20s-Continue/124455110367664203.html
2011-08-08T17:05:00Z
2011-08-08T17:05:00Z
<p class="Body">Unless you have been hiding under a metaphorical football rock, then you are privy to the entertainment that has been the outstanding U-20 World Cup thus far. Group stages are often noted for dour, pragmatic encounters, but it has not been so from this tournament. Goals, guts and glory with the effect being a contagious World Cup fever. Over 1,027,000 tickets have been sold locally, and the U-20s now represent Columbia’s largest sporting happening to date. These record crowds have provided a festive atmosphere both inside and out of the stadiums as the World Cup party has captivated the entire country, if not beyond.</p>
There are countless stories to follow-up on, from the unbeaten host nation to the historic, tearful Guatemalans, and with story-lines aplenty, it would be impossible to encapsulate it all here. So with that impossible task in mind, let's take a look at the action thus far as we gear up for the real meat of the tournament, the knock-out stages.
<p class="Body"><strong>Games to highlight: </strong></p>
<p class="Body"><em>Brazil v. Austria (Match 14)</em> - After stuttering to 1-1 draw against Egypt in their opening match, Brazil showcased their undoubted talent with a classy 3-0 victory over Austria. Proving what their senior counterparts couldn't at the Copa America, these young samba boys put on a thorough display of suburb teamwork and flashy creativity. It was a treat for all to behold, and placed Brazil well and surely as the most prolific team in the tournaments history. This match witnessed Brazil become the first country to tally more than 200 all-time goals in the competition, with the landmark goal coming when Henrique struck the first in the defeat of Austria. <em>A Seleção</em> have taken 91 games to reach that figure, which equates to an average of 2.21 goals per match. Surprised that it comes from the <em>Verde-Amarela</em> boys? Yeah, me neither, but my hats off nonetheless.</p>
<p class="Body"><em>Croatia v. Nigeria (Match 22) - </em>Nigeria's 5-2 thumping of Croatia came on day when 20 goals were scored between the four games being played, including Saudi Arabia's 6-0 rout of poor Guatemala. Yet Nigeria's game stand outs from the day given it was their second game in a row to hit 5 goals past their opposition, and with ease. The "boys" from Nigeria look as if they've taken a few notes from Barry Bond's handbook to successful sporting endeavor. These are massive guys. They ooze power and strength and have been magnificently coached into an unstoppable goal getting team. Their group stage displays will surely be providing nightmares to the lads from England, particularly if the Brits took note of Terna Suswan's awesomely struck 30-yard strike. </p>
<p class="Body"><em>Croatia v. Guatemala</em> <em>(Match 35)</em> - After being utterly destroyed in their previous two games against Nigeria and Saudi Arabia, 5-0 and 6-0 respectively, it seemed beyond the realms of possibility that a meager Guatemalan side would progress into the knockouts. Yet with grit and determination, and bloodied head bandages to boot, the Guatemalans pulled off an unlikely feat. After a deadlock match, with the Croats looking the most likely to score, Guatemalan <em><a href="http://www.fifa.com/worldfootball/statisticsandrecords/players/player=336895/index.html">Marvin Ceballos</a></em> took advantage of some poor defending on the 81 minute mark to slot home Guatemala’s first ever goal in the U-20s. His solitary, historic goal was enough to send Guatemala through, and break the team down into tears. The game made even more history as the Guatemalans became the first team to qualify for the knockout stages of the U-20s with a goal difference of -10.</p>
<p class="Body"><strong>Player of the Tournament, thus far: </strong></p>
<p class="Body">There are plenty to mention as the pre-tournament notables have not disappointed. Argentine Erik Lamela has been nothing short of outstanding (despite not featuring in the final game), so to has his teammate Juan Manuel Iturbe. Brazil's individual talents have shown brightly, <a href="http://www.fifa.com/worldfootball/statisticsandrecords/players/player=308366/index.html">Philippe Coutinho</a> in particular has been sublime. Spanish maestro Sergio Canales has been pulling all the strings for the unbeaten Spaniards, and Luis Muriel has been playing lights-out for the host nation, Columbia.</p>
<p class="Body">However, star-gazing aside, my pick has to go to New Zealand's goalkeeper Stefan Marinovic. He demonstrated the perfect mixture of talent and passion as he put on three brilliant performances for the All Whites. Despite only gaining two points from the group stages, the Kiwis can thank Marinovic for having collected any points at all. His efforts will go down in history for the New Zealanders given the fact the country had yet to amass any points at the U20s prior to this edition (albeit, the only other tournament they participated in was Canada '07). So despite an early departure back home across the Pacific, Marinovic should keep his spirits high as he captured the hearts of many Columbians, especially the locals in Cali, with his resolute performances. </p>
<p class="Body"><strong>Team of the Tournament, thus far: </strong></p>
<p class="Body">Three teams earned maximum points from the groups: Nigeria, Spain and Columbia. While the other group winners (Portugal, Argentina and Brazil) have all been impressive in their own right as well. From this pool it is tough to pick the stand-out team. Nigeria, as already mentioned, has been in goal getting heaven, scoring twelve in their three group games. While much like their senior counterparts, Spain has been fluid, confident and deadly. And of course it is no surprise to see the other three group winners progressing as top seeds.</p>
<p class="Body">So then I guess my choice would have to go to the host nation, Columbia. It always adds that extra zest to a World Cup when the host nation does well, and this has been no exception. The crowds are alight with passion when their boys take the pitch. That energy has clearly motivated the Columbian squad as the team put together a perfect group stage performance. After bossing France 4-1 in the opening game, the Columbian defense shut up shop and did not allow another goal in the following two games against Mali and South Korea. Porto’s rising star James <a href="http://www.fifa.com/worldfootball/statisticsandrecords/players/player=269058/index.html">Rodriguez</a> has demonstrated why his club raised his buy-out clause to €45 million earlier this summer. He’s knocked in two goals and provided an assist. The aforementioned Luis Muriel has also been a joy to behold. Yet the collective nature and passionate support of the host nation is the real reason Columbia are my pick. In that opening game against France, <em>Los Cafeteros </em>were backed with a truly moving rendition of the national anthem by the crowd. The emotion was painted on the young men’s face and you would have to be a cold scrooge to not be warmed by the emotive scene. It is said that prior to taking the pitch, Columbia’s fitness coach yelled out, “There’s 11 of us, but we’ve got 46 million behind us!” <em> </em></p>
<p class="Body"><strong>Interesting to note: </strong></p>
<p class="Body">If you were fooled into thinking Columbian football legend Carlos Valderrama was recruited by the Aussies, you were not alone. Chants of “Pibe! Pibe! Pibe!” rang out everytime Young Socceroo Mustafa Amini touched the ball. The cheers of course being a tribute to Amini’s Carlos Valderrama-style hair-do. Unfortunately his choice of hair style could not channel the master-class talents of the true <em>El Pibe. </em>The young Aussies crashed out after winning just one point from the group stages.</p>
<p class="Body">So there you have it. A quick look at the tournament thus far, and below you’ll see the fixture list for the upcoming round of 16. I’ve put an asterisk next to the must-see matches. This tournament has already been filled with all the emotion one expects from a World Cup, and it will surely only get better from here. So if you’re under that rock, get up and come join the party.</p>
<p class="Body"><strong>Round of 16 Fixtures:</strong></p>
<p class="Body"><em>Tuesday, August 9th:</em></p>
<p class="Body">Argentina v. Egypt*</p>
<p class="Body">Portugal v. Guatemala</p>
<p class="Body">Columbia v. Costa Rica*</p>
<p class="Body">Cameroon v. Mexico</p>
<p class="Body"><em><br /></em></p>
<p class="Body"><em>Wednesday, August 10th:</em></p>
<p class="Body">Nigeria v. England*</p>
<p class="Body">Spain v. South Korea</p>
<p class="Body">France v. Ecuador</p>
<p class="Body">Brazil v. Saudi Arabia*</p>
Scott Byington
2011-08-08T17:05:00Z
Looking Bright, Looking Good
Brendan Morris
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Looking-Bright,-Looking-Good/743779086439552107.html
2011-08-08T01:07:00Z
2011-08-08T01:07:00Z
It would be hard to argue that today's Community Shield, annual curtain raiser to the EPL season, was not the most anticipated one in years. Quite possibly ever. There's always fireworks expected and a massive media hype build up around any derby match involving the red and blue halves of Manchester but this one was pretty special. No matter how much either manager attempted to dismiss any kind of importance or implications surrounding the result of this match in the week leading up to it, we all knew for a hard cold fact that such comments were complete and utter bollocks. In grand tradition, these sides properly hate each other and would love nothing more than to start the season with a leg up on their crosstown rivals. Competitively meaningless and purely psychological as that leg up may be, they both wanted it. Bad. For me though, it was clear that only one of those sides really came into this game like they were going to take it.<br /><br />At no surprise to anyone, United and City both put out strong, "we mean bloody business" lineups, and they were going hammer and tongs from the start. United in particular was tearing into their sky blue opposition in the first 10 minutes, and the Blues were extremely lucky not to concede in that early stretch: Ashley Young being the greatest offensive menace on the attack.<br /><br />The Reds continued to dominate the majority of play in the first half, certainly creating more quality chances and maintaining the lion's share of possession, only to have it all fall apart in the dying minutes. A well taken corner from David Silva soared just over Vidic's reach to meet the head of Joleon Lescott who unfortunately easily put the ball into the back of the net. Well played no doubt, but it did leave you wishing for a bit more from Rio who was in front of the ball as it fell into the box.<br /><br />The first goal coming against the run of play seemed to unhinge the United defense so much so that they quite shockingly allowed City to add insult to injury and go 2-0 up during first half injury time. Edin Dzeko took a, lets face it, not a great strike from distance that manged to find it's way past new boy De Gea. Admittedly our new much hyped keeper should've done a lot better with the somewhat awkward shot from the big Bosnian, I'm going to go ahead and chalk it up to nerves during his first match on a big stage. He's going to need time to settle folks, no need to get worked up here just yet.<br /><br />United started the first half by making some interesting, and really pretty ballsy changes swapping Smalling and Evans (!) for Vida and Rio and Tom Cleverly for Michael Carrick. These almost questionable changes just gave further credence to the old United fan creed "In Fergie We Trust" because boy, what a difference it made. <br /><br />Our Reds came absolutely roaring back and we're all level inside of the first 13 minutes. The combination of the young defenders going forward and the incredible pace and on and off the ball sharpness of Cleverley gave the squad just the kind of shot in the arm it needed. The sheer speed of the buildup play was something to behold, and was some of the best I've seen from United in some time. The best part of all, CITY JUST COULDN'T COPE WITH IT!!<br /><br />The first goal came when Young placed a fantastically taken dead ball into the penalty area for Smalling to receive in mid-air and put a sort of clever side kick on it to put it past Joe Hart. It was due credit to Smalling who managed to make his attacking presence know throughout the match having taken one threatening shot on goal already. Six minutes later though, the next goal was truly a thing of beauty.<br /><br />The gorgeous team play I was waxing on about really came together for this one when Nani put in a great pass to Rooney just off the box, Roo then placing a slick back heel pass to the feet of Cleverley who then tipped the ball sideways into the path of Nani chipping it coolly over the oncoming Joe Hart. <br /><br />Rooney and Nani are always standout performers of course, and their play there was nothing short of just that, but Cleverley was the part of that equation that really made me take notice there. Having already mentioned the instant impact he made upon his substitution, I was doubly impressed to see him so easily reading the play and fitting right in with the big boys. Do we really need Wesley Sneijder? Hmmm.....<br /><br />City were clearly worn down and rattled by these 2 goals in quick succession, and they never did really grab a hold of the match again. Substitute Adam Johnson was definitely the most lively of the bunch in the second half, and put in their best chance with a laser strike from distance around the 75th minute which was fortunately well blocked by De Gea. <br /><br />As the minutes wore on I always felt the winning goal was coming, even as we blew a few late chances I knew this game wasn't going to go to spot kicks. Besides the fact that United have that well earned reputation of making our own luck and getting the result in the dying minutes, It was a feeling also born of the fact that City themselves were already playing like they were beaten. Roberto Mancini made a quite surprisingly bold statement earlier this week claiming his squad had something of a "mental weakness" that needed to be overcome before they can be real title contenders. Well, Bobby Manc was cerainly right about that as they couldn't even keep it together at 2 goals up, always looking like they were expecting the death blow.<br /><br />That death blow lovely and beautifully came in the second minute of stoppage time when a truly (que up S1TV Wayne Rooney voice) shambolic error from Vincent Kompany gifted Nani a one on one position wth Heart in LOADS of space. Nani approached quickly, slowed as he reached Hart, easily wrong wayed the City keeper and put the winner into the net. It was as slick and cool a goal as any I've seen from most top strikers in the game. Call me an arrogant United fan, I don't care, but it was always going to happen that way.<br />Besides the complete breakdown of defence that allowed the 2 city goals at the end of the second half, the positives to take away from the match are absolutely fantastic and set a quite serious statement of intent for this nearly upon us EPL season.<br /> <br />- Ashley Young: Looks to be a top drawer signing to say the very least. His crosses are precise and superbly consistent, and he drifts off the wing into a support striker role at will to a very effective degree. He's going to be a big player for us, mark my words.<br /><br />- Danny Welbeck: To the chagrin of many a United fan I've never been a huge fan of the young Englishman, but coming back from his loan spell he seems a completely different player. All that pace and power has been matched with some much needed maturity in his vision and decision making and it seems he's going the potential to be quite the explosive package this season.<br /><br />- Tom Cleverley: I've said quite a bit about the lad already, but good Lord he's earned it. I think it was always in the back of a lot of supporters minds for the last several seasons that he could well be the replacement for the inevitable retirement of Paul Scholes and today he did more than well to stake his claim as such. I'm not saying a creative midfield signing should be wiped off the cards as of yet, he's still a young player that needs a lot more game time. But hey, if Chicharito had the season he had last year, why not Cleverley? I can not wait to find out.<br /><br />- Our Up And Coming Defenders: Smalling, Phil Jones, Rafael and Jonny Evans were impressive as all hell today deputizing for Rio, Vidic, and Evra. There were a few shaky moments there, but I have all and absolute conviction that the next generation of a powerful and resolute United backline are firmly and well in place. Even Evans who had a very rough year last term seemed to show a return to the form that granted him so much success during the '09-'10 season standing in for an often injured Ferdinand.<br /><br />- General Team Play and Morale: We had a wonderfully successful preseason of scoring goals for fun against admittedly weaker opposition, but it seems that we brought the bond and high spirits of the tour into this match. The boys look confident as can be and for as well as they're playing they damn well should. Like I said, it's been some time since I've seen them looking so sharp. If only they could've managed it in a certain Champions League Final. <br /><br />Granted it's VERY early days yet and I'm not going to get too carried away, but we really couldn't be in a better positon for the start of the league next week. With Arsenal on a steady decline, Chelsea appearing to have all the same short comings they did last season, and Liverpool still re-constructing their squad, City could arguably be our closest competition this year. After today's display I've got to admit I'm feeling pretty damn good about the whole thing. They came from behind and TOOK that trophy away from City. That's the resolve of Champions.
Brendan Morris
2011-08-08T01:07:00Z
A Tale of Two
Branham Biggers
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/A-Tale-of-Two/-934685866302376798.html
2011-08-07T22:17:00Z
2011-08-07T22:17:00Z
It was the best of halves, it was the worst of halves, for Manchester City, at least. 77,169 fans dressed in either red or blue witnessed a dramatic clash between two bitter rivals for the 2011 Community Shield at Wembley Stadium on Sunday. City aimed to prove that the squad of all-stars they have assembled is ready to take on the reputation as the best in England this year, and what better way to prove it than to thrash the current champions, Manchester United?<br /><br />It seemed as though that might be the precise outcome, as City came out blazing in the first half, working the ball nicely and showing their physical presence on more than one occasion. City kicked off in their 4-3-3 formation with Hart in goal, Kolarov-Lescott-Kompany-Richards in the back; YaYa Toure-De Jong-Milner in the middle; and Silva-Dzeko-Balotelli attacking. There was no sight of Carlitos in the lineup or on the bench, and Vincent Kompany was given the captain's armband. New boys Sergio Aguero, Gael Clichy and Stefan Savic were on the sub's list, along with Adam Johnson, Barry, Taylor and Wright-Phillips.<br /><br />The game flowed back and forth for a while, with each team creating minor chances and corner kicks. Then, in the 14th minute, things began to heat up. Vidic took down Balotelli at the midfield line, and the enigmatic Manchester City forward jumped to his feet as if he wanted to eat Vidic with one bite. Vidic was not backing down, however, and referee Phil Dowd opened his book for the first, but not the last time, showing both players yellow cards. There were 7 cautions in total in the contest, 5 to City, and several players were fortunate not to have been sent off. <br /><br />The deadlock was finally broken in the 37th minute, as a tackle from Patrice Evra on James Milner resulted in a free kick for City. David Silva swung a beautiful ball into the box, and Lescott rose above Vidic to direct it past David De Gea for a very nice goal. City lead 1-0. <br /><br />Then, just before the halftime break, Dzeko let loose a screamer from 30 yards out that beat De Gea to his right, and City were in the driver's seat to accomplish their mission and put this game away. After looking at the replay, De Gea should perhaps have done a little better, as his reactions were not lightning speed, but it was still well done by Dzeko, as putting shots on target with power can often result in positive outcomes. City lead at the half 2-0.<br /><br />Now it was time for the worst of halves for Manchester City. When everything seemed to be going their way, and taking the momentum of the second goal into halftime, surely they could stand tall in the second half and prove to their rivals that the Shield was their's, right? Not so fast my friend. Just 7 minutes in to the 2nd frame, Ashley Young played in a free kick of his own from outside the box, and Chris Smalling got free from the "marking" of Dzeko, to volley past Hart to get United on the scoreboard. City still lead 2-1.<br /><br />Five minutes later, United drew level with a brilliant build up of play. Passes in tight areas from Nani, Rooney and Cleverly resulted in a Nani chip past Hart for the second goal, and the momentum had completely shifted to United's side. Score tied 2-2.<br /><br />That looked to be it for the goal scoring, as both teams traded shots, fouls, corners and clearances, and the game really settled in. Gareth Barry came on for Balotelli in a seemingly defensive tactical swap, and the forward was not best pleased, clearly letting everyone see his frustration before storming up the tunnel to pack his gold studded suitcase. Always drama with the talented youngster, Mancini certainly has his hands full. Adam Johnson and Gael Clichy also came into the fray in the second half with Milner and Kolarov making way. Newly arrived Argentinian forward Sergio Aguero stretched and loosened up, but did not make an appearance. <br /><br />Full time arrived, and the fourth official showed 4 additional minutes to be played. With no extra time in the Community Shield, the game looked certain to be going to penalty kicks, and Mancini was undoubtedly busy scribbling the names in the order in which he wanted the kicks taken, when out of nowhere, on a seemingly innocent clearing of the ball, Kompany was beaten to possession by Nani right at the midfield line, and the Portuguese international was free to run all day, with no one in front of him but Joe Hart and the glory of victory. Nani coolly went around Hart and slotted home the finish to put the final emphatic nail in the coffin of City's collapse. (Or United's incredible comeback, depending on which team you support of course.) <br /><br /><img src="/images/admin/Nani celebrating.jpg" alt="" width="394" height="220" /><br /><br />Well, so close, but so far away. This game perfectly portrays the potential of this Manchester City team. The skill, power and class to go two goals up on the Premier League Champions, and the lack of finishing, concentration and overall team dynamic that United has in spades. This was definitely a missed opportunity to lift another trophy and show who the new power is in English football, but ultimately, there were no points on the line, and until next week, City and United are tied with 18 other teams at the top of the Barclay's Premier League table, a place that City want to hold all by themselves after the season has completed. (Which would give them another shot at the Shield next season, and perhaps they will remember to play the full 90 minutes that time. Or 94, rather!)<br /><br />Thanks for checking this out, and I'd be honored if you would like to follow me on twitter: <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/@branhambiggers">@branhambiggers<br /><br /></a><br />Cheers!<br /><br />
Branham Biggers
2011-08-07T22:17:00Z
Pinch of Pastore: Just an ingredient to PSG's success.
Nash Larson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Pinch-of-Pastore:-Just-an-ingredient-to-PSGs-success./276331332604684176.html
2011-08-07T22:03:00Z
2011-08-07T22:03:00Z
<p><span>French club Paris St. Germain have officially announced themselves as big spenders on a day they concluded their signing of Javier Pastore for a fee of 42 Million Euro's, nearly doubling the highest standing transfer fee paid by a French club. PSG's success, where others failed, brings a summer of speculation over the Argentines' future to a close. Pastore joins the ranks of a PSG side that has seen an injection of funds after 70% of the club's controlling interest was bought by the </span>Qatar Investment Authority. Call them the French Man City, or the Parisian Malaga, no-matter PSG is the newest of the European "Super Clubs," and it's about time. Pastore joins fellow new-boy's Salvatore Sirigu, Jeremy Menez and former Lorient striker, Kevin Gameiro. For a city as large and prominent among world cities, Paris is in need of a successful storied club, one that Parisian's can commiserate about, over a baguette or a crepe.</p>
<p>Of late, PSG has been billed as a middle-weight club in Europe. Consistently throwing punches in the mid to upper-table range of League 1, but is a side that hasn't won a title for more than a decade. Last year they pushed hard and were rewarded with a Europa League spot, a success that from now on will be deemed as not good enough. A combination of manager Antoine Kombouare's fiery nature and fresh talent, a leap up the table seems perfectly feasible, if they get the formula right. Challenging for the title will not happen overnight, as the "suga-daddy," oil Sheiks would like to think, but with the players they have signed, and taking into account last years results, should at least be securing a Champions League spot this season. The virtue of patience must be exercised, for the cobbles of Paris won't be paved with rose's just yet. All you have to do is look at the time it took, and is still taking Man City to settle after their influx of funds. This said, Kombouare has picked up some solid talent this summer, but now the man with target on his back, has to only whip out his beakers, rubber gloves, and work on some chemistry. Failure to make an impact will, as history has shown, could be in the cards as money has the power to increase the expectation, putting peoples loyalty to the test. As Andy Brassel astutely put it, " <span>Money raises profile and creates excitement, but rarely does it provide certainty."</span></p>
<p><br /> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/komboure.jpg" alt="" /> </p>
<p><span>This chemistry may be hard to come-by, and PSG fans may have to tough it out for a while as the mold sets. Their patience has already been put to the test as PSG lost their opener to Lorient 1:0. Like I said the mold needs to set, and If anyone can act as a bath of ice water, it's </span>Kombouare. What seemed to be an issue with Mark Hughes' tenure at Man City was he let the high price tags give his players a false sense of entitlement, to under perform, challenge authority and in the case of Robinho, piss off back home to Brazil, for a little sun on the Copacabana. Kombouare will be having non of this! A straight- shooter, personified in an instance of shouting,<span>“Shut your face! Come here and see!” after </span>PSG keeper Apoula Edel shined him on over a mix-up with defender Sylvain Armand leading to a consolation goal in their 2-1 victory over Toulouse. Complacency will not be tolerated, and even if you're "worth" 56 million Euro's, you're gonna follow his demands. <span>In his playing career as a rugged central defender, </span>Kombouare got a reputation of berating referees, and has transferred this petulance to his coaching style. His man-management is glove-like, which is the tonic needed if PSG are to avoid the same precarious situations seen up at Manchester.</p>
<p>Check out more at,<a href="http://spotkickjournalism.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"><br />http://spotkickjournalism.blogspot.com/</a></p>
Nash Larson
2011-08-07T22:03:00Z
Real Madrid's Preseason - I Like It
A.J. Nelson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Real-Madrids-Preseason---I-Like-It/657620719290741765.html
2011-08-07T21:40:00Z
2011-08-07T21:40:00Z
<p>For fans of Real Madrid, the end of the 2010/2011 season brought a sense of uncertainty and trepidation about the future. Rumors abounded. Would José Mourinho, Cristiano Ronaldo and others depart? Was it true that significant players were fighting with one another and threatening to leave? Some discontent within an organization the size of Real Madrid is understandable and expected. However, in May, the hint that the fighting could spiral out of control and make for a miserable 2011/2012 season became a growing fear. Watching Barcelona lift not one, but two major trophies did not help. But when vacations were over and the key players and coaches returned, the uncertainty dissipated and preseason became a beautiful thing to watch.</p>
<p>Mourinho has brought teams to Los Angeles for several years now and, to the delight of American fans, this year was no different. I suspect the opportunity to start the preseason in a mild climate with celebrities abounding was a significant draw for all involved. The fact that David Beckham was healthy and could appear when his former club played their first preseason game against the Los Angeles Galaxy sweetened the pot. Even “carmageddon” couldn’t dampen the party atmosphere at the Los Angeles Coliseum. The game itself disappointed from a competitive standpoint, but the fans clearly didn’t care. They knew seeing Beckham and Ronaldo on the same pitch was something not to miss. As it was the first game of preseason, there was a mixture of new and old players along with starters and non-starters. Credit has to be given to Josh Saunders and Brian Perk, the Galaxy’s back-up keepers. They had to face shots from nearly every player and made some strong saves. At the end of the day, however, Los Blancos made it look easy and coasted to a 4-1 victory with goals by youngsters José Callejón and Joselu in the first half followed by goals by Ronaldo and Karim Benzema in the second. The footwork, angle and strength of the strike from Ronaldo left the commentators nearly speechless and certainly star-struck. For the fans, Ronaldo lived up to his billing and didn’t disappoint.<br /><br />Mid-week found Real Madrid taking a short flight south to San Diego where they faced one of the most decorated clubs in Mexico, Chivas Guadalajara. Chivas put up a good fight in the first half keeping the game scoreless, but the entrance of Ronaldo in the second wore down their defense. Around the 70th minute, Real Madrid took over and once again made it look easy, ending with a 3-0 victory and a hat trick for Ronaldo. The win allowed Madrid to head to Philadelphia feeling bolstered by their early preseason success in California.</p>
<p>The Philadelphia Union provided a unique challenge for Real Madrid. The MLS side appeared undaunted facing a European power. For Madrid, a few cracks appeared. Early goals by Mesut Özil and Callejón confirmed a victory, but Los Blancos were reminded that they weren’t flawless. Aitor Karanka, Mourinho’s assistant said it best. "This was our weakest match, but the positive thing is we won and that our previous two games truly showed how hard we've been working." </p>
<p>After a brief return to Spain, Madrid was back on the road, this time heading to Germany to face newly promoted Hertha Berlin. The Germans took the lead at 18 minutes, but 10 minutes later a goal by Ronaldo leveled things up. A brace by Benzema closed things out and Madrid was celebrating another preseason win.</p>
<p>Bags were packed again when Madrid headed to England to showcase a “special” event - the meeting of Mourinho and Sven-Goran Eriksson. For those of you who have never seen “Special 1 TV” and are football fans, climb out from under the rock you have been hiding under and find it. No matter what team you support, it should make you smile. The game against Eriksson’s Leicester City was a typical preseason friendly. Third goals in the preseason campaign for both Callejón and Benzema wrapped up the victory. An 88th minute goal by Leicester likely pleased the local fans, but had no impact on a game dominated by Real Madrid.</p>
<p>The final leg of Real Madrid’s preseason “World Tour” sent them to China. If the jet lag had an effect, it didn’t show. Madrid coasted past Guangzhou Evergrande with a 7-1 victory. The Chinese side scored a few minutes before the final whistle, but rarely showed any significant opposition. Real Madrid’s follow up match against Tianjin Teda ended in another convincing 6-0 victory.</p>
<p>Mourinho has had a season to learn about his players, discover their strengths and weaknesses and make adjustments. If the preseason is any indication, those adjustments are working. Real Madrid allowed only 5 goals in their 7 preseason games and found the back of the net 24 times, a third of those goals being provided by Benzema. The French international is proving his worth as a full time starter and goal scorer. (I suspect there is an EPL team or two kicking themselves right about now.) With the typical starters (including Benzema) playing limited minutes in the preseason and already looking like they are in mid-season form, I am definitely hearing music playing for Los Blancos. As Real Madrid supporter Enrique Iglesias would say, “Baby, I like it. Come on and give me some more!” </p>
A.J. Nelson
2011-08-07T21:40:00Z
La Liga Preview I: Relegation. A few quick hello & goodbyes.
Stephen Kuzner
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/La-Liga-Preview-I:-Relegation.-A-few-quick-hello--goodbyes./666538981850929664.html
2011-08-07T19:08:00Z
2011-08-07T19:08:00Z
<p><strong>La Liga Preview I: Relegation. A few quick hello & goodbyes.<br /></strong>By Stephen Kuzner, WFD La Liga Blogger<br /><br />Mark your calendars, on 8/21 the world’s greatest sports league starts its season with La Liga’s Round #1. To preview the league, I’ll be presenting the teams in six groups of where there they’ll finish starting with relegation, fighting relegation, mid-table, challenging for Europe, Europa League, and Champions League. At the end, you’ll be able to get the whole La Liga guide in PDF format, 20+ pages of La Liga soccer-intelligence that will be updated at the end of the transfer window in August as well as the winter window. We’ll start at the bottom with who will be relegated. Here is, who will most likely be relegated…<br /><br />------------------------------------------------<br /><strong><br />Rayo Vallecano de Madrid, S.A.D.<br /></strong><strong><br />Founded</strong>: 1924 | 12 Years Top Flight | 28<sup>th</sup> All-Time Tabl<br /><strong>Nicknames</strong>: Ray<br /><strong>Ground</strong>: Estadio Teresa Rivero (15,500<br /><strong>Last Year</strong>: Promote<br /><strong>Manager</strong>: José Ramón Sandova<br /><strong>Formation & Style</strong>: 4-4-2<br /><strong><br />BEST 11<br /></strong><br />David Cobeño (GK) | Spanish, 29 years old, 99 appearances with Rayo past 3 years.<br />José Casado (LB) | Spanish 24 year old, loaned in Segunda past few years by Sevilla.<br />Alejandro Arribas (CB) | Young 22 year old Spanish centerback.<br />Salva Funet (CB) | Spanish defender with 75 appearances for Rayo past 4 years.<br />Roberto Román (RB) | Spanish, “Titi”, has spent time in 3<sup>rd</sup> and 4<sup>th</sup> tiers.<br />Rafa García (MF) | Spanish midfielder. All experience is in Segunda.<br />José Movilla (MF) | Spanish 36 year old veteran central midfielder. Tireless worker.<br />Juli Cerdá (MF) | Spanish 30 year old attacking midfielder. Primarily Segunda.<br />Michel Muñoz (LM) | Spanish 35 year old left-sided midfielder. Former Spanish U20.<br />Francisco Medina (FW) | Spanish, “Piti”<br />David Aganzo (FW) | Former Spanish U21 and Real Madrid youth product .<br /><strong><br />Notable Returnees</strong>: Daniel Giménez (GK), Néstor Susaeta (MF), Javi Fuego (MF), Andrija Delibašiæ (FW).<br /><strong><br />Players In:</strong> Pedro Botelho (<em>Arsenal</em>), Sueliton Pereira (<em>San José</em>), Alberto Perea (<em>Atlético</em>), Michu Cuesta (Celta)<br /><strong><br />Players Out:</strong> Coke Andújar (<em>Sevilla</em>), Emiliano Armenteros (<em>Sevilla</em>), Yuma, De la Vega, Bryan Angulo, Óscar Trejo (<em>Sporting Gijón</em>), Antonio Amaya (<em>Real Betis</em>), Salva, Borja García (<em>Córdoba</em>), Provencio, Susaeta<br /><strong><br />Summary</strong>: Despite some serious economic trouble, Rayo was promoted last year. In many ways, manager <strong>José Ramón Sandoval</strong> created a miracle in gaining promotion. Often looked upon as Madrid’s 4<sup>th</sup> team (after Atlético Madrid, Getafe, and Real Madrid), most want to see them do well. Rayo sits in the Vallecas neighborhood of Madrid known for its working class ethics and left wing politics. During Franco’s regime, the area was known for right wing resistance. The supporters of the club embrace these values. <strong>Raúl Martín Presa</strong> has been trying to offload the club since acquiring it earlier this year. This has created a lot of instability including transferring out the key players that helped get Ray promoted last year including: <strong>Coke Andújar</strong> (<em>Sevilla</em>), <strong>Emiliano Armenteros</strong> (<em>Sevilla</em>), <strong>Óscar Trejo</strong> (<em>Sporting Gijón</em>), <strong>Antonio Amaya</strong> (<em>Real Betis</em>). This is a very old team that lacks top flight quality. Many of the players are on the wrong side of thirty and fans will not recognize the names of most of the squad. It will be very hard not so see Rayo not be relegated. What will be interesting is the atmosphere on game day. Vallecas sell out most every game and generate an extremely intimidating environment. The level of insults that supporters hurl at opponents is something not seen in most of La Liga. Players that take corner kicks will be face with severe abuse. Despite the entertainment value of the Teresa Rivero, Rayo should go down.<br /><strong><br />Prediction: </strong>20<sup>th </sup>(Relegation)<br /><br />-----------------------------------<br /><strong><br />Granada Club de Fútbol<br /></strong><strong><br />Founded</strong>: 1931 | 17 Years Top Flight | 26<sup>th</sup> All-Time Table<br /><strong>Nicknames</strong>: El Graná, Rojiblancos Horizontales, El 5001, Filipinos<br /><strong>Ground</strong>: Estadio Nuevo Los Cármenes (16,212)<br /><strong>Last Year</strong>: Promoted<br /><strong>Manager</strong>: Fabri González<br /><strong>Formation & Style</strong>: 4-2-3-1<br /><strong><br />BEST 11<br /></strong><br />Roberto Fernández (GK) | 32 year old Spanish keeper. 197 appearances for Gijón.<br />Mikel Rico (LB) | 26 year old Spanish Midfielder. 1<sup>st</sup> year in top flight.<br />Diego Mainz (CD-L) | Udinese loan. 29 year old Spaniard. 1<sup>st</sup> year in top flight.<br />Iñigo López (CD-R) | Udinese loan. 23 year old Spanish defender.<br />Allan Nyom (RB) | French defender from AS Nancy youth system.<br />Dani Benítez (LM) | Udinese loan. Spanish left-sided midfielder. 1<sup>st</sup> year in top flight.<br />Manuel Lucena (CM-L) 28 year old Spanish defensive midfielder.<br />Abel Gómez (CM) | Spanish midfielder. Played for Xerez in La Liga two years ago.<br />Jaime Romero (CM-R) | Udinese loan. Young Spanish wingback. 6 U19 Caps.<br />Yohan Mollo (RM) | 22 year old French winger. 5 U21 caps. "Cristiano de Monaco"<br />Alex Geijo (FW) | “Alex”. Udinese loan. Swiss-born Spanish footballer.<br /><strong><br />Notable Returnees</strong>: José Juan (GK), Rafa Martínez (GK), Noe Pamarot (DF), Ikechi Anya (FW), Odion Ighalo (FW).<br /><strong><br />Players In:</strong> Guilherme Siqueira (<em>Udinese</em>), Jaime Romero (<em>Udinese</em>), David Cortés (<em>Hércules</em>).<br /><strong><br />Players Out:</strong> Juan Collantes (<em>FC Cartagena</em>),<strong> </strong>Rubén Párraga (Real Murcia), Juande (<em>Betis</em>), Óscar Pérez (<em>Cádiz CF</em>), Jonathan Mensah (Udinese Calcio), Carlos Calvo (<em>Udinese</em>), Párraga, Mensah (<em>Evian</em>).<br /><strong><br />Summary</strong>: Granada CF is based in the province of Granada, an autonomous community of Andalusia in Southern Spain. In 2002–03 financial troubles began the club and a spell of time in the third division of Spanish football in the Segunda B. Things got so bad financially that in July 2009 on brink of closing the club, they signed a partnership agreement with Serie A’s <strong>Udinese</strong> to incorporate Spaniards into the Italian club and receiving its youth players and reserves. This unusual arrangement enabled Granada to be promoted to the second division. This quick climb back in continued in 2010–11 when Granada finished fifth position and won the first promotion playoffs to La Liga. It will be 35 years since Granada’s last time in Spain’s top flight. The promotion was won with many players on loan from Udinese. This season, Granada could have as many as seven players from Udinese play significant roles including: <strong>Diego Mainz</strong> (DF), <strong>Allan Nyom</strong> (DF), <strong>Guilherme Siqueira</strong> (DF), <strong>Dani Benítez</strong> (MF), <strong>Jaime Romero</strong> (MF), <strong>Alex Geijo</strong> (FW), <strong>Odion Ighalo</strong> (FW). It’s hard not to look at Granada and think of it as Udinese B. Their situation symbolizes the great disparity and debt within Spanish football. In terms of tactics, expect an intelligent and defensive 4-2-3-1. Don’t feel bad if you don’t recognize any of the players. They won’t be in La Liga next year. Relegation is almost guaranteed.<br /><strong><br />Prediction: 19</strong><sup>th </sup>(Relegation)<br /><br />-------------------------------------------------------<br /><strong><br />Real Racing Club de Santander, S.A.D.<br /></strong><strong><br />Founded</strong>: 1913 | 43 Years Top Flight | 14<sup>th</sup> All-Time Table<br /><strong>Nicknames</strong>: Los Racinguistas (of Racing), Los Verdiblancos (The Green and Whites), Los Montañeses (The Highlanders / Mountains)<br /><strong>Ground</strong>: El Sardinero (22,271)<br /><strong>Last Year</strong>: 12<sup>th</sup> (46 Pts)<br /><strong>Manager</strong>: Héctor Cúper<br /><strong>Formation & Style</strong>: 4-4-2 / 4-2-3-1<br /><strong><br />BEST 11<br /></strong><br />Toño (GK) | Veteran Spanish goal keeper. Hércules youth product.<br />Domingo Cisma (LB) | Spanish Andalusia left back. Can fill-in at center back.<br />Marc Torrejón (CD-L) | Quality Catalan center back in his prime. Espanyol product.<br />Osmar Barba (CD-R) | Big (6-3) Spanish central defender. Racing B youth product.<br />Francis (RB) | Spanish right-sided player. Most of career with Xerez in lower tiers<br />Adrián González (LM) | Spanish left midfielder. Real Madrid youth product.<br />Gonzalo Colsa (CM-L) | Spanish journeyman central midfielder. Former Spain U21.<br />Edu Bedia (CM-R) | Spanish U21 rising youth player via Racing youth team.<br />Kennedy Bakircioglü (MF) | “Kennedy”. Former Swedish international and U21.<br />Pedro Munitis (FW) | Spanish short (5-5 ½) stalwart forward. Racing’s fighting spirit.<br />Julián Luque (FW) | Spanish 19 year old. Creative. Spain U18. Racing product.<br /><strong><br />Notable Returnees</strong>: Óscar Serrano (MF), Papa Kouli Diop (MF), Manuel Arana (MF), Kennedy Bakircioglü (MF), Mario Fernández (GK), Christian Fernández (LB) Ariel Nahuelpan (FW).<br /><strong><br />Players In:</strong> Edu Bedia (<em>Salamanca</em>), José Picón (<em>Pontevedra</em>), Brian Sarmiento (<em>Salamanca</em>), Lautaro Acosta (<em>Sevilla</em>), Ramón Arcas (<em>Racing B</em>), Julián Luque (<em>Racing B), </em> Tato (<em>Racing B)</em>.<br /><strong><br />Players Out:</strong> Fabio Coltorti (<em>Lausanne</em>), Pablo Pinillos, Iván Bolado (<em>Cartagena</em>), Giovani dos Santos (<em>Tottenham</em>), Medhi Lacen (<em>Getafe</em>), Henrique Buss (<em>Palmeiras</em>), Markus Rosenberg (<em>Werder Bremen</em>), Alexandros Tziolis (<em>Siena</em>).<br /><strong><br />Summary</strong>: Racing, a pillar of La Liga (44 seasons in the Spanish top flight), have spent the past two seasons fighting relegation and look to continue that trend. Last year, Racing Was bought by Indian businessman <strong>Ali Syed</strong>. Trouble soon ensued. The club narrowly avoided relegation, players protested of not being paid, and lost its manager <strong>Marcelino</strong> to Sevilla. Reports materialized that Syed was looking to offload the club. At the season’s end, Racing looked like a good side, but the this summer the club has lost <strong>Giovani dos Santos</strong>, <strong>Medhi Lacen</strong>, <strong>Henrique</strong>, <strong>Markus Rosenberg</strong>, and <strong>Pablo Pinillos</strong>. It will be difficult to replace the quality lost from these players. Signing <strong>Edu Bedia</strong>, <strong>José Picón</strong>, <strong>Brian Sarmiento</strong>, and <strong>Lautaro</strong> <strong>Acosta</strong> will help, but not enough. The clubs best hope comes in the form of promoting the creative <strong>Julián Luque</strong> from Racing B. Former There are some other good players in <strong>Marc Torrejón</strong>, <strong>Cisma</strong>, <strong>Kennedy</strong>, and the aging <strong>Pedro Munitis</strong>.Valencia and Intermilan manager, <strong>Héctor Cúper</strong>, has been brought in to guide the team this year, but for a team that scored few goals last year, it will be hard for him to find goals with the current roster. Despite the disarray of the club, their squad isn’t the worst in La Liga, but not enough either.<br /><strong><br />Prediction: </strong>18<sup>th</sup> (Relegation)<br /><em><br />Stephen Kuzner is a Baltimore-based Blogger for WorldFootballDaily.com who specializes in La Liga. You can reach him on at @twitter.com/BarcaBlogger.</em> </p>
Stephen Kuzner
2011-08-07T19:08:00Z
New Season Cometh (already?)
James W. Hollis
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/New-Season-Cometh-already/51422605835722639.html
2011-08-06T15:22:00Z
2011-08-06T15:22:00Z
<p>I would be lying to you if I said that the end of this preseason has made me feel good. It’s hard not to have misgivings about our opening day fixture against Spurs when we haven’t scored in the last two preseason matches. Perhaps I should look at this preseason differently. Last preseason, we pillaged and burned through a number of A League foes before getting smoked by a Wolfsburg team that finished near the bottom of the table in Germany last year.</p>
<p>This preseason we played fewer games and scheduled seemingly better opponents. What is sad is that precious little has changed since last season. Everton is missing a consistent goal scorer. In game, that deficiency takes the form of Everton players creating and then spurning the great chances that fall to them. Those missed chances only add to the palpable frustration that can be felt building inside of Goodison Park (or at least in my apartment) during almost every match.</p>
<p>The match against Villareal was our first home match of the summer and it struck me how little had changed since last season. We had nearly the same line-up succumbing to precisely the same problems and, unless you count Yakubu (which you shouldn’t?!), no new faces. Despite the undercurrent of negativity this summer, the match against Villareal was going quite well until an appalling challenge from ‘Nigel de’ (Carlos) Marchena on Seamus Coleman set tempers alight. He should’ve been off. I don’t care if it’s a friendly. It was a two-footed challenge around the center circle and he got Coleman’s back leg. He missed the ball by almost four feet. As a professional footballer, that’s evidence of bad intent. </p>
<p>Next came Everton’s usual second half decline. Last season, we had the tendency to only play one half in each game and I dare say that the tendency continues to plague us during the preseason (as you would expect). Apart from Tim Cahill, Marouane Fellaini, and Victor Anichebe exacting recompense from Marchena for his challenge on Coleman, only two things stick out in my mind from the second half. The first was a surging run from Leighton Baines. He beat Villareal’s entire defense and did everything but stick the ball into the back of the net. The second was the stunning free kick by Giuseppe ‘Born in the USA’ Iscariot (Rossi). Iscariot’s screamer was only partially tainted by the dive (yes, in a friendly) that his teammate made to earn the chance.</p>
<p>The one bright spot for Everton this summer, and against Villareal, has been the emergence of Ross Barkley. He swings passes around, he runs at players and his game is really impressive especially given that he’s a 17-year-old. Some, specifically those inside the commentary booth for Everton this preseason, have compared him to Steven Gerrard. I understand the comparison because Ross moves in a similar way, cutting across defenses and to try to look to slip a pass through or hit a long-range blast. They also run similarly. However, I’m happy to say that that is where the comparisons should cease since, to the best of my knowledge, Ross doesn’t (allegedly) assault DJ’s after they refuse to play his favorite song.</p>
<p>I guess this is the point where I talk about transfer rumor(s). The only credible rumor regarding Everton this week (none of them are credible) divided the Evertonian community worldwide. For much of the week, we were linked heavily with one Joseph Barton. Joey’s not particularly well liked anywhere in the Premier League but I’m certain that no fan base is more hesitant over him than the club he supports. Arguments raged on twitter and various fansites about whether he was worth the gamble or even whether he was worthy of wearing the Everton shirt. Fortunately, none of these arguments proved necessary since Everton was unable to meet Barton’s wage demands. Problem solved. Well done Bill and the Board, really crushed that rumor...and along with it many Evertonians’ hopes of getting <em>any</em> new <em>signing</em> this summer.</p>
<p>On to exit rumors (all involving Arsenal). Arsene Wenger has been spotted peeking his head over the fence at Finch Farm to watch Everton train more regularly in the past week. Word on the street is that they’ve made at least one and possibly two offers for Phil Jagielka. To his everlasting credit, ‘Jags’ has reportedly said that he’s not interested in being at the Arsenal. To be fair, though, it could be that he’s just getting caught up in the fad of players who don’t want to be a part of Arsenal Football Club (will that increase his valuation?). That said, Wenger is also in for Leighton Baines and, as of earlier today, Jack Rodwell. Arsene must have some special glasses that help him see Rodwell when he slips on his invisibility suit during games.</p>
<p>However, Arsenal do seem to be quite interested in bringing one of our players to London this summer. As such, I propose a deal that will benefit the entire footballing world: a swap deal, Phil Jagielka for Cesc Fabregas. Everton takes Fabregas and agrees to <em>immediately</em> sell him to Barcelona. If this deal goes through, Arsenal will get a good defender, Everton will get a much-needed injection of cash and the world will be able to rejoice in the knowledge that they never again be forced to endure the use of the term ‘Cesc-Gate’. Everyone wins.</p>
<p><br />Follow me on twitter: http://twitter.com/jwhollis</p>
James W. Hollis
2011-08-06T15:22:00Z
Manchester City Aim to Raise the Shield on Sunday
Branham Biggers
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Manchester-City-Aim-to-Raise-the-Shield-on-Sunday/264054000217164161.html
2011-08-06T02:29:00Z
2011-08-06T02:29:00Z
On Sunday morning, FA Cup Champions Manchester City will face the Barclay's Premier League Champions, Manchester United, in the first of at least three Manchester Derby's in the upcoming season. At stake: bragging rights, a potential pyschological edge, an early leg up on confidence, and most importantly the Community Shield Trophy.<br /><br />Wembley Stadium will be buzzing with excitement as Manchester City look to kick off the new season and add another trophy to the FA Cup they hoisted at the end of the last campaign, which ended a decades long drought and brought a new sense of swagger to go along with the deep pockets and seemingly endless amount of stars they have acquired over the past few years. City will be seeking their 4th Community Shield Trophy, and their first since 1972. In fact, this will be their first appearance since the following season of 1973, when they lost to Burnley 1-0. <br /><br />Standing in their way will be the giants of this competition, as no team has won more Shields than Manchester United's 18. And no individual player has won more (8) or appeared in more (14) than United's stalwart, Ryan Giggs. He will undoubtedly be looking to add to each of those already amazing totals. These two huge clubs from the same town have squared off against each other once before in this match, in 1956, with United emerging as victors 1-0. And no, Giggsy did not play in that game, it just seems like it!<br /><br />This current version of Manchester City never fails to produce drama or controversy, so the team selection will be very interesting come Sunday. If City play their standard 4-3-3, will Balotelli be chosen, or will he be resigned to back-heeling empty water bottles on the bench? Will Kun Aguero recover from an illness in time to make his much anticipated debut for the City fans? Will Tevez be given time on the field, and will he be given the armband again? Will Mancini continue with the THREE defensive midfielders in Yaya Toure, Gareth Barry and Nigel De Jong, or will his hopes of playing more attacking football lead his decision making to feature David Silva in a more central, distributing role? In any scenario, the wealth of talent is amazing to behold, as there could be names like Tevez, Dzeko, Adam Johnson, Balotelli and Kolarov to choose from to <em><strong>come off the bench</strong></em> depending on how things get started. Not a bad problem to have, egos aside.<br /><br /><img src="/images/admin/Man City Logo.jpg" alt="" width="339" height="253" /><br /><br />It is a bit ironic that a team so well known for splashing the cash to no end, is playing in a "Community" Shield, but this event is actually quite remarkable, and really pays it forward to those in need. The proceeds for this fixture are distributed to the 124 teams that competed from the First Round and onwards in last season's FA Cup campaign. The funds are then passed along to the charities, initiatives and projects of the teams' choice, as well as the FA's national charity partners. Cheers for giving back in a positive manner!<br /><br />Manchester City's time is now. After what has to be deemed as a successful 2010-2011 campaign which brought the FA Cup title and the coveted direct entry into the Champions League Group Stage by their third place league finish, City will be looking for even more glory this season. They will be hopeful of jump-starting their new year with another trophy, and proving to their main rivals, and current title holders that they have their sights set on stealing their Barclay's Premier League title this time around. <br /><br />But then again, could a resounding thumping from Manchester United spark another onslought of cash and see City dive right back into the transfer market before the deadline arrives? If so, we might see names like Eto'o, Nasri or Maicon added to the two/three deep roster of world stars? Hey, it's all for Charity, right???<br /><br />Tune in soon for my preview of the upcoming League Campaign for Manchester City, and follow me on twitter if you'd like: <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/@branhambiggers">@branhambiggers<br /><br /></a>Cheers!
Branham Biggers
2011-08-06T02:29:00Z
Zach Loyd Gets the USMNT Call Up- We Get Him First
Rafa
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Zach-Loyd-Gets-the-USMNT-Call-Up--We-Get-Him-First/848247308162419842.html
2011-08-05T21:55:00Z
2011-08-05T21:55:00Z
Exactly what the title says. Zach Loyd gets the last minute call up to the United States Men's National Team (as a replacement for the injured Timmy Chandler) as they prep for the August 10th friendly match against our biggest rivals in Mexico. And as Zach steps off the training field, we get to talk to the USMNT international first, before anyone else.<br /><br />You'll be able to watch the video interview of WFD at the FC Dallas Training session ahead of their match against Galaxy on Saturday some time this evening or early Saturday. Just keep refreshing the WorldFootballDaily.com website.<br /><br />Zach discusses many things in the interview - his first reaction when he heard the news, how he will take the experience of his first cap (against Chile this January at the HDC) to this game, and what he wants to learn from veteran right-back Steve Cherundolo.<br /><br />You can call in to talk with Kenny at 310-909-8483. And if you can't call in during the show, no worries... just dial the phone number and leave a message on the Rant Line. Write us at show@worldfootballdaily.com. <br /><br />Follow all the tweets from the World Football Daily on Twitter <a title="@WFootballDaily" href="http://twitter.com/#!/@WFootballDaily" target="_blank">@WFootballDaily</a>. <br /><br />Follow the host of the show, Kenny Hassan <a title="@KennyWFDLive" href="http://twitter.com/#!/KennyWFDlive" target="_blank">@KennyWFDlive</a>.<br /><br /><br />
Rafa
2011-08-05T21:55:00Z
Crew Fans Show the True Meaning of Being a Supporter
Matt Barry
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Crew-Fans-Show-the-True-Meaning-of-Being-a-Supporter/727066277779825939.html
2011-08-05T21:31:00Z
2011-08-05T21:31:00Z
<p>Crew supporters used to be scattered all around the House that Lamar Built. That was, until the club put in a huge concert stage after the 2007 season that facilitated a move to the Northwest corner of the stadium, effectively forcing the Crew’s supporters to sit together and unite in the newly formed Nordecke. The team and fans came together under this new-look supporters section, and Columbus snagged the Supporters Shield and MLS Cup in the section’s first year. Crew Stadium became a fortress. The stars had aligned. A few good, but trophy-less seasons followed and the Nordecke motored along and continued to develop. The Nordecke had united in the best of times.</p>
<p>Fast-forward to the night of June 26, 2011. The Crew were on the field, taking it to a ten-man Colorado Rapids team and pounding them 4-1. It was a great night to be a Crew fan, and strangely enough, the events in the stands were more of the story than the Crew’s big victory on the field. Confusion and miscommunication between a Nordecke member and a security guard over the placement of the fan’s drum caused the fan to be escorted out of the section. Then, with the majority of the section unaware of the exact details as to why the fan was escorted to the upper deck, nearly 90% of the Nordecke followed the refugee fan to the upper deck, forming the “Upperdecke”. It was an incredible display of solidarity among the Crew’s three principle supporters groups: La Turbina Amarilla, the Hudson Street Hooligans, and the Crew Supporters Union. The fans in the section, for the most part, had no idea why the man was asked to move, or whether the security guard was right in asking him to move. The fans of the Nordecke honestly didn’t care. They just did what they thought was appropriate, which was to come together and move as a unit. The Nordecke had united in the strangest of times.</p>
<p>Now the Nordecke has united in the worst of times. The Hudson Street Hooligans got word this week that their ground-breaking, one of a kind bar, Hooligans Pub, would have to be shut down for the time-being in order to meet the City of Columbus code. The repairs needed to get the bar up and running again are in the tens of thousands of dollars, and the Hooligans will be without a home for the foreseeable future. After creating one of America’s first (and maybe only) supporters owned and operated bars, this is a setback to the growing supporters culture in Columbus. Team officials joined supporters from all of the groups on Thursday to rally outside of Hooligans to present a unified front and to show resolve that Hooligans will open its doors again for Crew supporters. Fans from the Crew Supporters Union and La Turbina Amarilla have reached out in support of the Hudson Street Hooligans. The Crew Supporters Union has offered for their displaced Nordecke brethren to join them at their pre-game tailgate and other events. As many in Crew Soccer Nation have put it, this is what we do. We’re family. It is times like these that remind us as soccer fans anywhere in the world that supporters don’t just exist to support their club. They exist, too, to support each other.</p>
<p>Follow Me on Twitter: @bearinthebus</p>
Matt Barry
2011-08-05T21:31:00Z
Marcelo Bielsa: A
Rob Carvajal
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Marcelo-Bielsa:-A/-593952250790244971.html
2011-08-05T20:57:00Z
2011-08-05T20:57:00Z
After the dust had settled, and white smoke had emerged, Josu Urrutia Telleria's name stood alone as the new president of Athletic Bilbao and with him a new era with Marcelo Bielsa at the helm. One could even say that Bielsa's selection as his coach helped to tip the scale in Urrutia's favor. Bielsa (Argentinean by birth, Chilean at heart...credit to Ruben Uria) has had a very short managerial career in European club soccer, just a handful of games at Espanyol before taking over the Argentinean and Chilean national squads; but what he may lack in top European club pedigree, he more than makes up for with a great reputation among the coaching elite, Guardola, for one, names him as one of his influences, even meeting with him before embarking on a successful managerial career of his own. You can even see the Bielsa's influence in Barcelona's pursuit and later signing of Alexis Sanchez, a clear example of what "<em>El Loco</em>" gets out of his players: tactical awareness, an understanding of correct positioning on the field, a vertical approach probably second to none, and an unrelenting attack mentality.<br /><br />Bielsa (who doesn't do exclusive interviews, but is known for doing long press conferences, sometimes lasting 3 or 4 hours) usually sets up his teams in a 3-3-1-3 formation, with a libero and two center backs, a holding midfielder, two wingbacks, a classic number 10 or "creator", two old school wingers and a center forward. At times, especially with Chile, he adopted a 4-3-3 formation due to the lack of height of the Chilean backline, but this should not be a problem at Bilbao. "<em>Los Leones</em>" are known for their physical approach, never shying away from getting "stuck in". But Bielsa will add his well known style to them: an unrelenting attack, and pressure on the opposing team in all areas of the field... No, don't expect Athletic to have the pause and parsimony, the "<em>tiki taca</em>" that is so en vogue nowadays with Spain and FC Barcelona. No, with him you'll get attack, attack attack... go for goal, lose the ball. and start again, all with as little possible passes available. Football vertigo at its finest.<br /><br />The revolution has been swift, many players have been dropped; Ion Velez,and Balenziaga to Girona and Valladolid respectively, alongside Urko Vera, Diaz de Cerio, Perez, Zubiaurre and Koikili and only two new signings, Ander Herrera (Zaragoza) and Mikel Ordegozo (Real Sociedad). Athletic's Tranfer policy does make things just a little more difficult due to the fact that only players with Basque lineage can be part of the team. But no matter, Bielsa had already done his homework, amassing more than fifty DVD's of the players ranging from the first squad to the B squad and youth squads (newly crowned U'19 European champions Jon Aurtenetxe and Jonas Ramalho stand out among them)... Even before he was officially named their coach...They don't call him "<em>El Loco</em>" for nothing!<br /><br />Judging by an auspicious run of pre-season friendlies, undefeated in all of them, his do or die moment will most likely be the Europa League qualification playoff against Trabzonspor, Senol Gunes' team plan on improving on last season second place finish in the Turkish league adding Didier Zokora from Sevilla (formerly of Tottenham Hotspurs) to boost their midfield. Though they should see it through, considering the return leg is played at San Mames, bowing out of the competition even before reaching the group stages, would surely be seen by Bielsa and his players as a failure.<br /><br />La Liga will see them kick things off against Mourinho's Madrid (version 2.0) at the Bernabeu, and what a game that should be! Things do get slightly easier from then on, at least on paper, They welcome newly promoted Rayo Vallecano at San Mames, travel to Cornella El Prat, a tricky fixture, to face Espanyol, then return home to face another newly promoted side and last season's second division champions Real Betis, after that, to Andalusia to face newly rich Malaga, a team worth it's weight in oil. A start that should see them get 7 to 9 points from a possible 15.<br /><br />While all the major headlines will be given to Madrid and Barcelona, as is usually the case in Spain, or even Abdullah ben Nasser Al Thani's new adventure at Malaga, one should keep an eye on Athletic's developments this season, after all a team that has at their diposal the talents of Javi Martinez, and Fernando Llorente (both World Chamions with Spain this past summer) and Iker Muniain (everyday less a promise for the future and more of a reality for the now) all led by an obsessive, detail-mad perfectionist, isn't something you'd want to miss.<br /><br />After all, it's a "<em>Madman</em>" leading "<em>Lions</em>" <br /> <br />Rob Carvajal <br />barcagonzo@twitter.com<br />
Rob Carvajal
2011-08-05T20:57:00Z
Supercoppa Showdown in Beijing: Inter Milan vs. AC Milan
Ogo Sylla
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Supercoppa-Showdown-in-Beijing:-Inter-Milan-vs.-AC-Milan/952038404141016487.html
2011-08-05T11:13:00Z
2011-08-05T11:13:00Z
<p>Milan and Inter will face off in a pre-season derby this Saturday at the Beijing National Stadium for the right to lift the Italian Supercup. Although Milan arrive in Hong Kong as the <em>Scudetto</em> champions, the onus is very much on Inter to show that they still have it within themselves to push their city-rivals to the end and even overtake them in the fast-approaching Serie A season.</p>
<p>The <em>Nerazzurri</em>'s issues are firmly in regards to the defense Gasperini has called up relative to the formation the Italian intends to deploy. When scrutinizing the Inter’s defense we must first look at the absentees. Unlike in Milan’s case where Allegri called back the entire South American contingent that played in the Copa America, Gasperini finds himself without some of them. The ones of interest to us however are Maicon and most notably, Lucio. Maicon has been a key player for Inter and the team’s offensive transitions throughout his career with the <em>Nerazzurri</em>, and so his absence will be felt. But it is the fact that towering Brazilian center-back Lucio will not be there, which will hurt Inter the most. We indeed saw a similar situation in the second <em>Derby della Madonnina </em>of the season. In the pre-match of this encounter, many pundits made a lot out Zlatan Ibrahimovic not being able to take part [due to suspension]. However it proved to be that Inter being deprived of Lucio which proved the pivotal factor, as the <em>Rossoneri</em> put their opponents to the sword in an emphatic 3-0 victory.</p>
<p>In Gasperini’s 3-4-3, that issue will be all the more magnified [naturally] due to the fact that he will deploy a three-man backline. Lucio is a powerful, uncompromising, and monstrously athletic center-back who would immensely improve Inter’s chances defensively. And therein lies the problem really. With the absence of Lucio, we must then look at the players who are available for the defense. The first names that come up are club captain Javier Zanetti, Ivan Cordoba, Andrea Ranocchia, Cristian Chivu, and Walter Samuel. The most likely players to feature in Gasperini’s three-man backline would be Cordoba, Ranocchia, Chivu, Samuel, and the aforementioned – but unavailable – Lucio. With Lucio not being there, one would think that Samuel would slot in seamlessly. However the issue is that Samuel has not played any football for a year now and thus may have lost a lot of his dynamic presence since then. In effect the nature of his injury and considerable lay-off time would make him quite the gamble to throw into this game. As for Chivu, he has proven on multiple occasions last season that he has simply lost all his pace and become far too error-prone. Therefore, in the context of a three-man backline, the Romanian could prove a huge liability. This then leaves young Ranocchia to anchor the defense, a truly daunting task for a boy who showed his age last season with some shaky performances (against Bayern Munchen in Champions League and key Serie A games in particular) for Inter. Cordoba is not necessarily a great option through the middle of that three either due to his lack of size and physicality. I expect him to do well flanking the center-back however due to his ability to read to game and cover the wide areas. After all, the Colombian played many years as a left fullback for the <em>Nerazzurri</em>, and so I don’t anticipate the transition to a three-man backline to be too difficult an adaptation. The solution would really seem to be playing Zanetti through the middle and have Ranocchia to cover the right side of the defense. The Argentine’s experience should prove useful and the best option of the lot. With Ranocchia on the right of the defense, another problem does emerge however. It is most likely that Robinho or Antonio Cassano will be cutting in from that side. Both being right-footed players, Ranocchia – also being right-footed – could have a hard time defending against Milan’s attacks coming from wider positions.</p>
<p><img src="/images/slideshow/italian-supercup.jpeg" alt="" width="428" height="312" /></p>
<p>In the end, the point being made here is that a three-man defense without Lucio anchoring it is a risk for Inter. Gasperini exacerbates the issue by playing Sneijder in central midfield ahead of the defense. The Dutchman’s less than ideal defensive and tackling abilities would only expose the defense further. The solution would be to play with a double-pivot midfield, with [ideally] Zanetti playing alongside Thiago Motta. Other options do exist however with Dejan Stankovic and even Sulley Muntari. Young McDonald Mariga is himself a great option for that role, but it unlikely that he would get the nod.</p>
<p>With all these issues born of Lucio’s absence, it might be best for Gasperini to fortify his defense by simply switching to a 4-3-3. Retaining a 3-4-3 and tinkering the midfield to protect what looks a fragile defense, could throw the entire balance of the team off. In effect removing Sneijder from central midfield to solidify it as a means to protect the defense seriously stunts Inter’s ability to move the ball forward, at speed, and indeed robs them of what the Spanish call <em>profundidad</em>*. To that point, we go back to the absence of Maicon which here makes itself known, as the Brazilian would have provided just that in the attacking phases of the play. Allegri is sure to latch onto this and probably deploy Robinho as a <em>seconda punta </em>(second striker) and Kevin Prince Boateng as a <em>trequartista </em>(playmaker) in order to pull and stretch the defense as wide as possible. In this particular tactic, Taye Taiwo would have proven a great exponent had he not been unavailable [through suspension**].</p>
<p><em><br /></em></p>
<p><em>* Profundidad</em>: refers to a team’s ability to play in vertical spaces – not necessarily long-ball tactics – by always looking to move the ball forward and towards goal, through either defense-spitting passes or dynamic individual runs</p>
<p> </p>
<p>** Taiwo was suspended following Marseille’s Coupe de France victory, when the Nigerian sang offensive songs direct at OM’s arch-rivals PSG </p>
Ogo Sylla
2011-08-05T11:13:00Z
New York Wins Emirates Cup (Or Why Anyone Should Stop Trying to Make Sense of this Team)
Brian Markowitz
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/New-York-Wins-Emirates-Cup-Or-Why-Anyone-Should-Stop-Trying-to-Make-Sense-of-this-Team/884624954092345196.html
2011-08-05T04:12:00Z
2011-08-05T04:12:00Z
<p><span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>About the only thing that looked hideous for New York Red Bulls last weekend in London were the yellow shorts the team wore for Sunday’s game with Arsenal.</p>
In a performance that hasn’t been seen in weeks by fans, the Red Bulls looked like the best – or least worse, at the very least – team at the Emirates. In two matches that belied their recent struggles in MLS, the Red Bulls hung with some of the big boys in European football and became the first non-European side to win the Emirates Cup in the first year non-European clubs had been invited to the preseason tournament.
<p>In the first match against nouveau riche Paris Saint-Germain, New York looked the more composed side for most of the match, despite having far less shots on goal. However, it was Hans Backe’s side who created the meaningful chances, and midway into the first half, it was all-star Joel Lindpere who converted one of the few quality chances of the match, slotting coolly from fellow all-star Juan Agudelo’s slide rule pass. In the second half, it was New York’s defense that clung on to the lead, with PSG proving wasteful time after time, helping an already composed defense.</p>
Dax McCarty and Teemu Tainio again partnered successfully in midfield, though this was also a rare sighting for New York fans, as it was only the fourth time they had paired together in close to ten games together. Tainio was content sitting back while the energetic McCarty linked successfully with the offense time and time again. New acquisition Frank Rost also looked comfortable in goal, although PSG did make it easy for him on many occasions.
<p>In the tilt against Arsenal, things were much different. In a New York lineup that lacked the midfield steel and experience of Tainio, the Gunners were easily able to dictate play – to the tune of <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/OptaJoe/status/97701405061689344">66% possession</a> through the first half. It was Robin Van Persie who put the Arsenal up toward the end of the first half, and with the way things were going, that could have been enough. However, on his return to London, it would not have been a game without Thierry Henry significantly involved. With the match coming to an end, Henry sent a pass in for defender Roy Miller, whose shot was deflected off young Gunner Kyle Bartley and into the net. The goal sealed the draw and the championship for New York. While it was utter embarrassment for Arsenal, in what was likely their only legitimate shot at silverware this season, it was the exact opposite for New York, who had a thousand-pound gorilla lifted off their back. </p>
<p><img src="/images/blog/Arsenal+v+New+York+Red+Bulls+Emirates+Cup+7MuOGAdkYw_l.jpg" alt="" width="291" height="374" /></p>
<p> One can only hope that the cup win will spur a late resurgence in Harrison, yet the road ahead is still tough. Domestically, Red Bulls had won just three games in all competitions heading into The Emirates Cup and have slipped to third in the Eastern conference. Just about every match left on the schedule is against a team in contention for MLS Cup playoffs and New York will have to be at its very best against the likes of Real Salt Lake, FC Dallas and that team from Philadelphia. Further, forward Luke Rodgers will miss at least three more weeks with nagging injuries, meaning New York will be missing its second leading scorer and will likely start a front line of two very similar players in Henry and Agudelo.</p>
<p>But if there’s some known quantity coming out of the weekend, it’s that the Red Bulls will finish with some silverware and that yet again, Arsenal did not get any trophy.<br /><br /><br /><br />Find me on twitter! @brianm1090 </p>
Brian Markowitz
2011-08-05T04:12:00Z
All Things US Soccer, and Then Some.
Rafa
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/All-Things-US-Soccer,-and-Then-Some./156226280504462037.html
2011-08-05T00:18:00Z
2011-08-05T00:18:00Z
I really wouldn't lie to you. The man. The myth. The legend that is Con-Radical comes into the World Football Daily studios to host a day with Kenny and we are touched. Like literally touched by JC himself. Even Chuck Norris would feel blessed.<br /><br />With that sad, there was an excellent show from Kenny and Jimmy as the two really got into the US Soccer discussion.<br /><br />We kicked off the show with Chief Soccer Writer for Sport Illustrated who, let me tell you, is kind of important. You can see by the picture below, this guy gets sit downs with Pele and got to visit Mourinho in his house in Madrid. So he felt pretty natural talking with the likes of Jimmy.<br /><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/GrantWahlPele.jpg" alt="" /><br /><br />Next on guest list was a good friend of the show and a good friend to Jimmy as well. Craig Waibel, former Houston Dynamo Defender and NFL Place-kicker prospect, called in to the show to chat with the boys. Sure we discussed the US Soccer Head Coaching move, but we also discussed his new Assistant Coaching position at Michigan.<br /><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/dynamocraigwaibel.jpg" alt="" /><br /><br />Next up was another really good friend of Jimmy's who he played with back in his college days. We get some special insider knowledge on Jimmy's dark days (ok, so not really dark days but his younger years). Still well worth a listen.<br /><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/ReisRevs.jpg" alt="" width="405" height="252" /><br /><br />We then dialed up Chicago Fire Captain Logan Pause to discuss the latest signing at the club and how Pavel Pardo might positively contribute to the Fire. <br /><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/LoganPauseFire.jpg" alt="" width="408" height="230" /><br /><br />And lastly, we got to speak with FC Dallas Coach Schellas Hyndman, in the airport the day after his team saw off El Salvadorian side Allianza last night in the club's first ever CONCACAF Champions League tie. FC Dallas were on their way to Los Angeles to take on the Galaxy this Saturday.<br /><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/hyndman.jpg" alt="" width="403" height="227" /><br /><br />You can call in to talk with Kenny at 310-909-8483. And if you can't call in during the show, no worries... just dial the phone number and leave a message on the Rant Line. Write us at show@worldfootballdaily.com. <br /><br />Follow all the tweets from the World Football Daily on Twitter <a title="@WFootballDaily" href="http://twitter.com/#!/@WFootballDaily" target="_blank">@WFootballDaily</a>. <br /><br />Follow the host of the show, Kenny Hassan <a title="@KennyWFDLive" href="http://twitter.com/#!/KennyWFDlive" target="_blank">@KennyWFDlive</a>.<br /><br /><br />
Rafa
2011-08-05T00:18:00Z
Now the shoe is on the other foot
Joseph Zucker
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Now-the-shoe-is-on-the-other-foot/-590761395837426766.html
2011-08-05T00:04:00Z
2011-08-05T00:04:00Z
“Die, traitor Kun!” Those were the words splattered on a banner at the Vicente Calderón Stadium in Atletico’s Europa League 3rd round qualifying match against Strømsgodset. The vitriol was of course directed at Sergio Aguero after his very public move to Manchester City. It was quite the change in opinion about a player the Atleti faithful had idolized for many years. The situation resembled that of Fernando Torres, a former Atletico player himself, as he swapped Liverpool for Chelsea. Torres watched as he went from favorite of the Kop to turning on Sky Sports only to see his shirt burned by the same supporters who adored him only days prior. <br /><br />The supporters were not alone in feeling betrayed by Aguero. Atleti President Enrique Cerezo told Spanish radio station Cadena COPE of the transfer saga, “(It) is a subject which is over and closed. Aguero had a buy-out clause and City paid it, though I still ask myself what we did for him to treat us like this.” Kun came over from Argentine club Independiente in 2006 for what is believe to be €23 million, the most Atletico has ever paid for a player. Seemingly ever since that moment, he has been adored by the Atleti supporters. That, of course, that is what made his departure the most difficult to take. The supporters feel Aguero has turned his back on the club, and is now public enemy No. 1. Granted, in hindsight, it certainly could have been handled much better by the Argentine, but the club was not left completely out in the cold. Now £38 million richer, they have been searching for his ways to reinvest the money. It appears that they could on the other side of the betrayal this time. Two footballers has made their intentions clear that they excited at the prospect of playing for Atletico Madrid. Of course, they would have to leave their current clubs to do so. <br /><br />The first is Wolfsburg midfielder Diego. The 26-year-old Brazilian has made clear his intentions to German magazine Kicker, stating bluntly, “I don’t want to be in Wolfsburg any longer.” The club’s humbling loss to RB Leipzig in the 1st round of the DFB-Pokal might have only increased his wanting to leave. In the same Kicker interview, Diego said, “There is an official offer (from Atletico). We have had contact with other clubs, but Atletico is a concrete option.” Diego has been a target for many big European clubs this summer, but his massive wage demands, in the range of €4-4.5 million a year, have derailed any actual move. It now seems as though he may be willing to take a wage cut in order to facilitate a move. Should he move to Atletico, he would be a very good signing. He is the kind of playmaking central midfielder the club has lacked in recent years.<br /><br />The other footballer to state his interest in Atleti is Real Sociedad winger Antoine Griezmann. Much like Diego, Griezmann has made his interest in coming to the Calderón very explicit, telling L’Equipe: “I [have] thought a lot about it. I [have] had time. I [have] chosen but it's my president [that] will decide. Atletico are a great club, very popular. I want to grow alongside players like Diego Forlan and Diego Costa.” Only 20 years old, Griezmann has been a member of Real Sociedad since 2005, and only signed his first professional contract in April 2010. Having had a breakout season at the San Sebastián, the Frenchman has re-evaluated his career path, and that means a move to a different club. He also said to L’Equipe, “I want to learn quickly, I dream of playing in the national side and I think a change of clubs would be the best decision to help me achieve that. (If you are) together with great players, you progress more quickly.” Griezmann also feels that Sociedad have broken an agreement with him in which the club would possibly look to change the winger’s role with the club. Instead, he claims they have not spoken to him in weeks, which has heightened his resolve to leave. Griezmann would be a fantastic signing for Atletico as the club has been looking for a winger to replace Simão, who left in the January window. This move is much less likely to happen as Sociedad’s management has made it clear they are in no hurry to sell Griezmann unless a fee close to his €30 million release clause is met. Either way, he has surely alienated the club’s supporters and his own teammates with his comments about a move to Atletico and put himself in an unenviable situation.<br /><br />It’s almost funny to read these sagas unfold, as they are almost parallel to Aguero’s move away from Atleti. Of course, it’s not as if stories like these don’t pop up every transfer window. (Insert player here) publicly asserts his desire to transfer to (insert new club here). The interesting part is how one club and its supporters have so quickly gone from the spurned to the object of another’s desire. It is now when we see how fickle football supporters are. Atletico supporters vilify Sergio Aguero for making public how he wanted to leave the club, and in turn are willing to welcome with open arms two players who are doing the exact same to their own clubs. It is of little concern that supporters of Wolfsburg and Real Sociedad are left in almost the exact same situation in which Atletico was left. The only real difference is that Aguero’s standing with Atleti supporters was much higher than that of either Diego or Griezmann. The change of heart is certainly nothing unique to Atleti supporters. It happens at every club across the world, the whole “If you’re not with us, you’re against us” mentality. It’s all a vicious circle really.<br /><br />You can follow me on Twitter @JZuckYNWAtleti<br />
Joseph Zucker
2011-08-05T00:04:00Z
If at first you don't succeed, hip check!
Rick Fitzgerald
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/If-at-first-you-dont-succeed,-hip-check!/-973205277820309963.html
2011-08-04T08:50:00Z
2011-08-04T08:50:00Z
First of all, I want you all to read this correctly so lets get the pronunciation thing out of the way. It isn't San Francisco, it's San Franseeesco, if the commentators are to be believed. Now that we have that out of the way, I feel like we can continue this blog with some amount of accuracy...<br /><br />This is not a blog where I am going to spend all my time complaining. Well, I might but stick with me because I think you'll agree. I get that soccer is a tough sport. I am an amature player and professional spectator. If you cut me I bleed soccer balls (a fact which really freaked my doctor out.) So yes, I understand the many nuances of the game and appreciate that some calls are good and some are bad. Hold that thought for a moment....<br /><br />Have you ever played an XBOX or PS3 FIFA game? If so, you know that sometimes you can push and slide and tackle and do everything you want but you are just not going to bounce that little computer cretin off the ball! Usually that cretin is wearing a Manchester United shirt. Watching this match, I was reminded of those games I played, when I had the time to plug in. <br /><br />OK, before I start complaining, and to show that I am fair, I will give all credit to SF for playing a pretty slick, quick passing match with a defense that was, for the most part, very stout. Seattle was in the offensive zone so much I forgot that there was another half to the pitch. And SF's goalie? Wow, not too many people are going to waltz into Seattle and show Keller up. Granted, Kasey played a nice match but Torres' double save was simply ridiculous.<br /><br />And now for the complaining....<br /><br />Was it me, or did it seem like there was a lot, and I mean a lot, of jump kicking, hard tackling (I mean the kind using your arms and not the slide), pushing over, shin kicking and whatever other ninja-like moves the SF players could muster to get the Seattle players down? I'm not one to cringe when the play gets a little rough, after all, I'm a pretty die hard rugby fan, but when the blows are continuous and as hard as they were in this match, AND Ref Solis doesn't appear to have a whistle that works, it makes me wonder what the heck is going on. There were numerous SF hits out there that would have made a hockey player hi-five the hitter. And yes, I am aware that there were some Seattle players who got a little chippy (I'm looking at you Alonso). But what are you supposed to do when the team your playing continues to introduce you to their spikes and the ref is a complete no show? You get frustrated and retaliate.<br /><br />I'm not a big fan of the dirty play and when the match starts to have more time lost due to players rolling around on the pitch rather than time playing, the ref needs to seriously evaluate what he is doing because it is very likely he has lost control. That is what I saw out there, a team that was chip-chip-chipping away and a ref who refused to pull the trigger when he should have. You may look at the yellow card count and comment that there was some discipline. While this is true, anyone who watched the match would not that there should have been a few more cards handed out and probably earlier.<br /><br />I give much credit to Seattle for a) keeping their cool while being kicked at for 90+ minutes and b) winning the match. Well done boys and yes, we are through to the next stage!<br /><br />Props to the crowd as well. Leave it to Seattle fans to show the rest of the US how it's done.<br /><br />Til next time...<br /><br />Be safe<br /><br />twitter @undefeatedarmy
Rick Fitzgerald
2011-08-04T08:50:00Z
Football League Starting? Ooh....My Girl's Gonna Be Maaad!!
Rick Fitzgerald
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Football-League-Starting--Ooh....My-Girls-Gonna-Be-Maaad!!/278882299182093049.html
2011-08-04T07:44:00Z
2011-08-04T07:44:00Z
Hi all and welcome to the first of many, many blogs covering the Npower Championship, League 1, League 2 and some FA Trophy news. When I found out I was going to be handling these divisions, I did what every good writer does - I consulted my Magic 8 ball to help me figure out the best way to cover so many teams, players and an endless amount of news. After several hours and a lot of "maybe next time" answers, I tossed the ball aside and jumped over to the computer so I could get right on it. Obviously there is a lot, and I mean A LOT going on in the world of football with the kick off of the 2011/2012 season less than a week away. Rather than inundate you with every tidbit of news I can find (because, let's be honest, do you really have time to read 12 paragraphs of football news when there is so much to watch? Ya, me either) I thought we could take a look at some matches that I think are going to be pretty tasty for this opening week. <br /><br />This season starts out with a match that I will be glued to: Hull City v Blackpool. With recent visits to and back out of the top flight, I can only imagine that both teams still have the taste of Prem life on their tongues. Both sides are hard working, blue collar clubs that are going to grind and grind until they've worn the other side to shreds. This match should be evenly paced and loaded with hard tackles and aggressive play. For these reasons, Hull City v Blackpool is getting my Match of the Week vote. I am not so sure this will be a 4-3 match but it should be filled with a lot of action. I'll get at you after the match to see if it lived up to its billing!<br /><br />Nottingham Forest yet again slipped out of a Prem spot last year by losing in the playoff round. Two years running, the frustration has to be growing as that all elusive promotion seems to be so close, yet just out of reach. Stevie will be looking to his experience this year to help them lift the cup. That campaign starts with a home stand v middle of the tablers Barnsley. Why is this a match to watch? Nottingham need to crash out of the gate and make early statements. With the addition of a much used George Boateng and team goal leader Lewis McGugan, Barnsley presents the perfect mat on which Forest can wipe their feet and let the other teams know that they have arrived. Will they? Well, if their preseason is any indicator, maybe not. But at this point, this being the first match, I'm willing to give them the benefit of the doubt.<br /><br />I would like to add West Ham to the list of hot matches this week but I am still a little shocked they got relegated!! <br /><br />Moving down to League One, the match that stands out to me the most is Leyton Orient v Walsall. Last year Leyton missed the playoffs by a single point after mounting a very back-and-forth campaign 'til the end. Conversely, Walsall managed to scrape their way out of the relegation to remain in League One by that same, all important single point. Both teams have much to prove this year and starting the season with three points in the bag might be the best way to do it.<br /><br />Not too much stands out in League Two. Sure we have the recent drops of Bristol City and Plymouth but I wonder at this time if they are going to have it in them mount a serious comeback. Notts Co. is a team that can produce, should produce, yet somehow doesn't seem to have the wheels to get the car moving in the right direction with any consistency. So I'll keep a keen eye on this league to see just who the players and pretenders are. <br /><br />On a quick side note - I know there is football to watch and I'm almost done - on the heels of opening day comes the Carling Cup. While interest in the Cup itself may be on the downslide, I do like the matches that, on paper anyway, seemed to be unbalanced. West Ham v Aldershot? Hull v Macclesfield? You know coming out of this round there will be a few upsets and scorelines that will make you think - what the heck just happened?? As we have all learned, in football, there are no gimmies, and anyone can win on any day. Who is your pick for Carling upset of the week?<br /><br />So sit back this weekend and enjoy the kickoff of what will be a most interesting year. How will it play out? Who will rise and who will fall? Only time will tell! I'll be there right along with you, eyes glued to the matches and voice raw from screaming (because, well, watching football can be very emotional.) You all take care and I'll be back in a few days. As always, there will be LOTS to cover.<br /><br />Be safe - <br /><br /><br />twitter name: @undefeatedarmy - feel free to hit me up!
Rick Fitzgerald
2011-08-04T07:44:00Z
Changes for the Better in Crew-Land
Matt Barry
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Changes-for-the-Better-in-Crew-Land/-97605104956205102.html
2011-08-04T05:10:00Z
2011-08-04T05:10:00Z
Last November, Crew Soccer Nation was rocked by the news of what was almost immediately tabbed “Black Monday”. After a second consecutive first-round playoff exit, this time at the hands of eventual MLS Cup Champion, the Colorado Rapids (and in PK’s no less), the Columbus Crew front office decided it was time for change. On a Monday in mid-November Crew President and GM Mark McCullers, Technical Director Brian Bliss, and Head Coach Robert Warzycha held their annual post-season meetings with all of the players. The meetings are meant to review the season and to discuss the future of each individual. Change is inevitable at any club, but no one was truly prepared for the front office’s decisions. The team had decided that it was time to cut ties with Guillermo Barros Schelotto (2008 MLS and MLS Cup MVP and Crew all-time great), Frankie Hejduk (long-serving club captain and US Soccer Legend), Duncan Oughton (longest tenured player in club history), and Gino Padula (fan-favorite left back from 2008 cup-winning team). The Crew also decided that it was time for more auxiliary players like Jason Garey to join the November cuts. More moves would come in the inaugural expansion draft in December, as the Crew lost Eric Brunner and Adam Moffat to the expansion draft and midfield stalwart Brian Carroll in the re-entry draft. By the time the New Year had rolled around, many in Columbus wondered whether the Crew would be fielding a team at all in 2011.<br /><br />The funny thing about the off-season was that it seemed like it was all out and no in for the Crew. This, however, was a wrong assertion. While all of these jettisons made the headlines, the team of McCullers, Bliss, and Warzycha were building their “New Crew” under the radar. Soon to be Crew and MLS all-time leading scorer Jeff Cunningham was brought in via the same re-entry draft that saw Carroll go. Tommy Heinemann of the NASL Carolina Railhawks, whose style of play often draws comparisons to one Andy Carroll, was also acquired to add depth to the strike-force. January saw the Super Draft selections of versatile defender and midfielder Rich Balchan from Indiana, striker Justin Meram from Michigan, midfielder Cole Grossman from Duke, midfielder Eric Gehrig from Loyola, and midfielder Bernardo Anor from South Florida. It should also be noted that Meram’s selection was part of a deal that sent big striker Steven Lenhart to San Jose. MLS journeymen Josh Gardner and Julius James were acquired to round out the off-season moves along with the acquisition of veteran right back Sebastian Miranda.<br /><br />The story for me, at least, was that the Crew had sent away some of its greatest ever players, while replacing them with guys past their prime (Cunningham), unproven on the big stage (Heinemann), rejected by other MLS teams (James, Gardner), and totally inexperienced and fresh-out of college (the Super Draft picks). Moreover, the Crew were asking a lot from players like Emilio Renteria, newly-DP’d Andres Mendoza, Eddie Gaven, Robbie Rogers , Chad Marshall, Emmanuel Ekpo, Will Hesmer, and Danny O’Rourke. These players were referred to by McCullers as “the core”. They would shoulder the burden for leading the Crew in 2011.<br /><br />Ok, so based on this evidence, where do you think the Columbus Crew sit in the league come August 1st? My guess coming into the season was mid-table, in the hunt, but not spectacular. McCullers consistently refused to use the word “rebuilding”, the dreaded R-word, to describe the off-season between 2010 and 2011. But that was what this was right?<br /><br />The Crew currently sit in first place in the Eastern Conference. They have no stars, literally. Of the 32 total MLS All-Stars selected to face Manchester United last week, not one of them dons Crew black and gold. Well, at least fans from around the league can see what all the excitement is about in Central Ohio this year right? Wrong. The Crew have no ESPN appearances this season and will make one of their few Fox Soccer Channel feature appearances this Friday at Colorado. The point? This is Robert Warzycha’s vision for HIS Crew. They don’t need to be flashy. They’re quick. They’re gritty. They buzz around the field. They get results. Have they had their low-points? Absolutely. The thrashing they took at the hands of Real Salt Lake in the Champions League and a loss at home to Chicago come to mind. Yet they are also capable of the unprecedented. Away wins at Houston and Salt Lake were never accomplished in the Schelotto era. <br /><br />Warzycha has built his team. Schelotto, Hejduk, Oughton, and Padula were great players. Maybe more importantly, they were incredible club servants. They were a lot of things to the Crew, but they were certainly not Warzycha’s guys. Nope, those guys are Josh Gardner, who has filled in heroically for first-choice left back Shaun Francis. Those guys are Julius James, whose athleticism has paired nicely with the towering Chad Marshall to form one of the best centerback pairings in the league. Those guys are Rich Balchan, who has played along the back line and in central midfield, a younger (dare I say better) version of Danny O’Rourke. The list goes on and on. I haven’t even mentioned the much maligned Andres Mendoza, who is living up to his high salary by leading the team in goals. Chad Marshall is having another MLS Defender of the Year type season. Eddie Gaven and Will Hesmer are having their usual solid seasons. In recent weeks, Robbie Rogers is showing flashes of his 2008 form, form that made him one of the top prospects in the US pool a few years ago. Emilio Renteria and Andres Mendoza have had minimal playing time together up top, and they are the team’s first choice strike pairing. That’s scary. Even scarier is that the likes of Dilly Duka, Tony Tchani (just acquired from Toronto), Balchan, and others are young and in Columbus to stay. This is a team performing well now and built for the future. This is Warzycha’s team. MLS fans: the Crew have reloaded, and they aren’t going away. Kudos, Robert. Guillermo who?<br /><br />Follow me on Twitter: @bearinthebus
Matt Barry
2011-08-04T05:10:00Z
Cescgate: The Saga Continues
Joaquin
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Cescgate:-The-Saga-Continues/917014353250834882.html
2011-08-04T04:29:00Z
2011-08-04T04:29:00Z
This summer has been the most trying for Arsenal fans in recent history. For most American Gooners that means the past decade, as our coverage of the Premier League in the States in prior years was minimal to say the least.<br /><br />The biggest story of the summer is something altogether too familiar. Will Fabregas leave for Barcelona? Everyone and their mothers are experts, citing rumors and making assumptions. It really is hard to decipher stories with real merit as opposed to the bile from the Daily Fail and The Sun. The problem is that even a blind squirrel can find a nut sometimes.<br /><br />In an era where we are connected to millions with the click of a button, missing fifteen minutes of your Twitter timeline can see your club certainly relegated or winning the Champion's League. Fans have never had as much access to players and as great as that may be the abuse dealt out is appalling. You may think players get grief from opposing fans but the primary problem lies with fans of their own club. People are quick to react to stories without checking facts and this leads to much unflattering vitriol. I'm no big Denilson fan but the young man used to interact with fans and sing and dance on camera, having a good time. That didn't last too long. Now that he's been loaned back to Brazil he's back at it because he is happy. Imagine getting hundreds of hate messages daily and think what it would do for your confidence and self worth. No surprise Nasri never tweets anymore and Cesc much less frequently before. I can't blame them.<br /><br />The real story at hand is the negotiations between Barcelona and Arsenal. The manner by which Barcelona have disrespected Arsenal and Cesc by the bids they have put in and comments their front office have made. Many think that Arsenal are holding out for £40m and although it seems to be true that valuation can't be fair in this inflated transfer market. Barcelona's first bid was £26m and that was a slap in the face. Some great statistics from @Orbinho have shown that he has been the most prolific passer and chance creator in Europe ahead of Xavi over the past five seasons.<br /><br />When Liverpool are paying £35m for Andy Carroll and £20m for Henderson and Downing each why shouldn't Fabregas' price-tag be at least £50m? That's what Chelsea paid for Torres. You look at the greatly talented yet unproven Javier Pastore moving to PSG for close to £40m who can't even get into the Argentina starting XI yet and he's on par with World Cup winning Cesc Fabregas? Not a chance.<br /><br />Further it doesn't seem Barca need Fabregas as they have the now and the future already at the club in Xavi/Iniesta and Thiago Alcantara. Thiago has been lighting up preseason and looks a real talent, very likely to be ready to step in when the others are past their prime. It doesn't seem feasible to play Cesc with the two others as we have seen evidence of in the recent Euros and World Cup for Spain. How do they intend on dealing with the £400m debts they have?<br /><br />Then to go as far as list Cesc as second priority of the summer should show all parties involved how serious Barcelona take this. It seems they feel a sense of entitlement to Cesc as he was their youth player "robbed" from them and don't want to pay market value. <br /><br />Many speculate that Cesc and Wenger may have had an agreement in place to leave as long as proper compensation has been met. This matter should have been dealt with by last month in order to prepare for the season properly and the fact Barca hasn't stumped up the cash yet doesn't help relations between the clubs or fans. A deadline should have been set, so appropriate replacements and pieces could be sorted. <br /><br />The Cesc saga is a Red herring as we Arsenal fans know the club has money to spend and the main targets of the summer are yet to been acquired. The center back most are clamoring for has not arrived, nor the exciting prospect of Juan Mata. The money is there, the impetus is on Wenger and Gazidis to spend. Most know they like doing their business late in order to not overpay, but if the goal is to win titles you need the team to be settled and form understanding with one another. With a Champion's League qualifier with £20m at stake coming up, most would think the squad important to be sorted by now. It would cost much more than any extra million on a transfer to get knocked out before the group stages, not to mention the embarrassment.<br /><br />If the Fabregas move isn't completed in the coming days I say give the finger to Barca and play him in the CL qualifier. I don't doubt Cesc's love for Arsenal, maybe he should question Barcelona's love for him? I believe he will be a Gooner for life like Thierry, and I will always appreciate his contribution to the club.<br /><br />Reports are coming out as I type that a deal has been agreed between the two clubs but I am yet to see any confirmation. True or not, the loss of Fabregas will/would be an enormous blow to the club and fans. Unless some miraculous replacement were to come in I couldn't realistically see us winning the title. I don't think our top four spot is in as much jeopardy as the English media would like it to be. The teams below us haven't done anything special.<br /><br />The day Cesc leaves will be a sad day for all Gooners. Below is a great video compiling Cesc's career with us from start to finish. No matter what happens we will be there to support our club and someone will step up to lead the club, great players have left before and yet here we still stand, top contenders year after year, developing superstars. We are The Arsenal.<br /><br /> <iframe src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/PQ26T1Ws73E" frameborder="0" height="349" width="560"></iframe>
Joaquin
2011-08-04T04:29:00Z
Dirty Harry
Nash Larson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Dirty-Harry/-104264048826925348.html
2011-08-04T04:29:00Z
2011-08-04T04:29:00Z
<div>Harry Redknapp has been watching his fair share of Gun-Slinger films this summer as he's modeled his transfer policy after the trigger happy, " Shoot first, ask questions later, "philosophy. With envious amounts of depth in his attacking options, his boys seem to lack gun-powder. Harry has deemed players like Robbie Keane and Roman Pavlyuchenko dead weight at the club, and will look to offload them. Throwing Peter Crouch and Jermaine Defoe into that mix and you have four quality strikers that scored a total of 17 goals between them last season. With one or two bound to vacate White Hart Lane before the English season kicks off later this month, Harry's Spurs have been linked with everyone besides Jesus Christ himself.
<div><br />Uncle Harry was chasing American-born Guiseppie Rossi with reckless abandon, but prying him away from Villarreal proved too much of a task. A clinical goal scorer who racked up 32 goals in all competitions, has confirmed that he is staying at the Spanish outfit, a must since the recent departure of Santi Carzola to Malaga. </div>
<div><img style="float: left; margin: 1px;" src="/images/blog/diego-forlan-in-uruguay-5.jpg" alt="" width=".2" height=".2" /><br />Another target for Harry's six-shooter is Uruguayan talisman Diego Forlan. On the back of a strong finish in the World Cup in 2010, and a Copa America Championship, Forlan has been linked to Spurs since the beginning of the summer, as he looks desperate to leave current club Athletico Madrid. He was put up for sale at the price of 7 million Euro's by Athletico, a bargain for the still influential yet aging playmaker. If Harry really wanted him, he could get him, but an unsuccessful run with Manchester United from 2001-04, still looms over the strikers head. The key...I think so. Proven goal scorer, influential presence, and a decent price......go git'em Arry! </div>
<div><br />Harry has even resorted to pursuing former Spurs player Dimitar Berbatov, as the Bulgarian's future is in question at United. The joint top scorer in the EPL last year, finds it near impossible to get a starting berth at United, due to the rise of Javier Hernandez. Berbatov has been accused of being a lazy player by United fans, a style that Spurs fans hold near and dear to their heart. A return would be welcomed by many, but in my opinion Berb's needs to seek new pastures, like signing for interested club PSG. </div>
<div><br />Harry's most recent pot-shot has been directed at Athletic Bilbao's monstrous striker, Fernando Llorente. The broad-shouldered Spanish International, nick named "El Grandee", has been chased by many clubs including Spanish giants Real Madrid, but has yet to be tempted away from his home town club of Bilbao. Harry will find this task a difficult one, but nevertheless will try to work some magic, as he is certainly capable of conjuring some, seen with last-minute acquisition of Rafael Van der Vaart last season. Tottenham and Bilbao meet in a friendly match this Saturday, where Harry will have ample opportunity to whisper some sweet nothings to Llorente, in an attempt to commandeer the wondrous talent.</div>
<div><img style="float: right; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/fernando-llorente.jpg" alt="" /><br />Others rumored to be on Harry's hit list include Emmanuel Adebayor, Mirko Vucinic and Sevilla's Alvaro Negredo. </div>
<div><br />When Spurs kick off their first league match against Everton on August 13th, Harry's front line may consist of new blood, but questions remain on whether or not he can secure some deals before the window closes. Crouch had a terrible season in front of goal, but with the introduction of Van der Vaart, Crouch's primary role is to play a moving back-board for the Dutch-man. Crouch is a useful player to have for these purposes, but he's not a 20 goal a season player. Pavlyuchenko was signed after a good showing in the 2008 Euro's for a Russian side that punched high above their weight. Ever since he signed for Spurs he has seemingly wanted to leave, but with an influx of game time under Harry he has stuck around longer than expected. A talented player who on the off-hand comes up with the miraculous, has yet to justify regular game time. If he is able to transfer National team form to club, he should see a starting spot in his future. Former captain Robbie Keane seems a definite departure, Jermaine Defoe has been linked with a move away, but come season's start he should still be wearing the lillywhite kit.</div>
<div><br />Hopefully for Spurs fans, Ol'Arry wrangles a new striker, who can score consistently, remains injury free, helping bring the fourth spot to North London. If he fails to do so he will be stuck with the same Ol' cowboys...So I have to ask Spurs fans one question..."Do you feel lucky? Do ya?"</div>
<br /><a href="http://spotkickjournalism.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"> http://spotkickjournalism.blogspot.com/</a></div>
Nash Larson
2011-08-04T04:29:00Z
Atletico's Goalkeeper Conundrum
Joseph Zucker
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Atleticos-Goalkeeper-Conundrum/-143369047569040932.html
2011-08-03T23:55:00Z
2011-08-03T23:55:00Z
It’s been a little over a month since David de Gea left the Calderón for Manchester United. The £18.9 million paid for de Gea is the second most ever paid for a goalkeeper. Since that time, Atletico had been searching for his replacement. It appears that a temporary solution has been found in Thibaut Courtois. <br /><br />Only 19 years old, the Belgian moved from Racing Club Genk to Chelsea for €9 million. It was rumored that Atletico were interested in signing Courtois to a permanent deal before the Blues got his signature. Having lost out on him, almost immediately it was announced Courtois would be moving on a season-long loan to Atletico Madrid. While highly rated, the loan move is a bit odd for the Rojiblancos since, already at the club are Joel, 21 years old, and Sergio Asenjo, 22 years old.<br />Surely, Courtois and Chelsea both know he will receive the majority of starts between the sticks. Otherwise, why make the move? It’s understandable that Atleti would seek another goalkeeper. Joel is a product of the Atleti youth system but has only made two appearances for the club prior to this season. The first coming as a substitute in May 2010 against Sporting Gijon when starting ‘keeper Asenjo picked up an injury during the match. The other was in the 2009/10 season finale against Getafe. Joel only got the start because manager Quique Sanchez Flores chose to rest de Gea for the Europa League Final against Fulham.<br /><br />Asenjo is a different story altogether. Purchased from Valladolid in summer 2009, he was brought in as the replacement for departed goalkeepers Leo Franco and Gregory Coupet. Linked with possible moves to Barcelona and Manchester United, Atleti believed they were bringing in the next Iker Casillas, someone who could finally solve a serious problem for the club in the years prior. The 09/10 season started well for Asenjo until a string of costly mistakes brought doubt into the minds of the club personnel and supporters. <br /><br />Flores’ arrival as manager added to Asenjo’s problems as he preferred de Gea. Not even making it to Christmas, he was dropped as starting goalkeeper in favor of de Gea. Things only got worse from there as he was injured in the match against Gijon allowing Joel to get his debut. He suffered a ligament injury to his left leg which ruled him out for six months. Returning in November of the 2010/11 season, he stayed at the Calderón a short time before being loaned to Málaga in the January window. He didn’t last very long as he injured the same knee on February 6 against Sevilla and was ruled out for the rest of the season.<br /><br /><img src="/images/blog/Sergio-Asenjo.jpg" alt="" width="235" height="326" /><br /><br />Which brings us to the current situation. Asenjo has returned to Atletico with an apparent clean bill of health, but until he proves otherwise, questions will continue to persist over his left knee. He is penciled in as the third choice ‘keeper right now. Joel, while he shows promise, is untested at the senior level. He started in the 2-1 win against Stromsgodset in the Europa League 3rd round qualifying match. It appears that one of the two will leave with the arrival of Courtois, more than likely Asenjo. He told Eurosport Spain, “In case a third ‘keeper who can become a starter arrives, and taking into account what happened last year, I would rather play, and perhaps leave, since it would hinder the progression of the two.” Even in the event that one of the incumbent goalkeepers does depart on loan or is sold outright, it seems that Atleti has chosen to replace a young, untested goalkeeper with an even younger one who is unproven in La Liga. Rather than to help its own players develop, the club has decided to nurture Courtois until he is ready to move to Chelsea full-time, in which case they will receive no money. Whereas by developing a player of its own, Atletico could receive another huge transfer fee. If the club wants to bring in a temporary goalkeeper, it would seem to make more sense to bring in a veteran like Manuel Almunia as a backup in the event that Joel isn’t ready. Instead, the club has chosen to place him on the bench in favor of Courtois in a move that will surely hurt Joel’s possibilities to reach his full potential. Although Joel has only had two starts for the club, de Gea was just as inexperienced when he took over in 2009. A year and a half later, he was sold to one of the best clubs in the world for almost 20 million pounds. It would appear that Atletico Madrid has no long-term direction when it comes to its future at the position. Of course, it wouldn’t be the first time the club has appeared to have no direction.
Joseph Zucker
2011-08-03T23:55:00Z
Reactions and Reflections: Chelsea vs Aston Villa (Pre-season)
Lamin Oo
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Reactions-and-Reflections:-Chelsea-vs-Aston-Villa-Pre-season/-83110925747534166.html
2011-08-02T14:40:00Z
2011-08-02T14:40:00Z
<p class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left; margin: 0px;">Chelsea made it six wins out of six in pre-season by beating Aston Villas 2-0 and reclaimed the Barclay's Asia Trophy. Out of all the pre-season games so far, this was a better test of Chelsea's prospects in the upcoming season. First of all, it was against a Premier League team. Even a decent (top ten) Premier League team. Secondly, Aston Villa has been training and preparing for the new season as a team, not just an "All Star" collection put together in a hurry for one occasion. </p>
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<p style="margin: 0px;">So it is a good sign that Chelsea put on a dominant performance in this game. We looked comfortable in possession and created plenty of chances -- two of which found the back of the net. In attack, both Anelka and Malouda looked very sharp. The midfield trio of Mikel, McEachran and Lampard rarely put a step wrong. The defense extended their clean sheet run under Andre Villas-Boas to six games. [Note: You can read the full match report<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><a href="http://www.chelseafc.com/page/TourNews/0,,10268%7E2405853,00.html">here</a>.] My thoughts on the game after the stats via Fox Soccer Channel.</p>
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<p style="margin: 0px;"><strong><em>Nicolas in the Middle</em></strong></p>
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<p style="margin: 0px;">If Chelsea fans were the parents and the attacking trio of Drogba, Anelka and Torres were their children, Nicolas Anelka is definitely the middle child. I say this not only because of the order in which the strikers came to the club, but also because Anelka gets as much love and attention from Chelsea fans as a middle child might from his parents. Stuck between Drogba who already has a great history with the club and Torres who offers a promising future, Anelka finds it hard to establish his place both in the hearts of the Chelsea fans and in the Chelsea formation.</p>
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<p style="margin: 0px;">Before Chelsea bought him in January of 2008, Anelka was scoring goals left and right for Bolton playing as the lone striker. However, the dominance of Didier Drogba as the central striker pushed Anelka out to the wings. He adapted to that position and had performed reasonably well playing 'out of position.' Whenever Drogba was not available for Chelsea (e.g., injury in 08-09 season and African Cup of Nations in 09-10), Anelka seamlessly shifted back into the central striker position. It is fair to say that Chelsea did not miss Drogba during those times because Anelka was so effective in that position. He even won the Golden Boot award in 08-09 mainly because of the goals he scored as the lone striker.</p>
<p style="margin: 0px;"><img style="margin: 5px auto; display: block;" src="/images/blog/ChelseaVVillaPreseason.jpg" alt="" width="267" height="429" /></p>
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<p style="margin: 0px;">Now with Drogba and Torres at the club and Andre Villas-Boas' preference to play only one central striker, everyone has assume that Anelka is only going to play in the wings. But the Chelsea manager has challenged this assumption by starting the French striker in the central role, flanked by Malouda on the left and Sturridge on the right, against Aston Villa. Anelka played superbly in this familiar role -- making smart runs in behind the defense, dropping deep into midfield to connect well with Lampard and McEachran, and being a constant threat in the opponent's penalty box. The first Chelsea goal by Josh McEachran came about because Anelka timed his run perfectly to collect a clever pass by Bosingwa, held off a physical challenge from Richard Dunn and subsequently forced a good save from Shay Given. Chelsea striker looked very sharp through out the first half; two out of the five Chelsea's shots on goal in the first half were by Anelka. However, when Torres and Drogba came into the frame in the second half, Anelka was again pushed out to the wings. After Torres scored his first goal of the pre-season, the good first half that Nicolas Anelka has had was all but forgotten. But I think he made a pretty good impression on his manager who says:</p>
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<p style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">"It was good. We managed to find the correct space, it was a good pass from Bosingwa to Nico and then following from that, we really found some good spaces today." (<a href="http://www.chelseafc.com/page/LatestNews/0,,10268%7E2405895,00.html">Source</a>)</span></p>
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<p style="margin: 0px;"><strong><em>Josh In Dangerous Positions</em></strong></p>
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<p style="margin: 0px;">One of the highlights of this game is the goal scored by Josh McEachran. This was the first senior goal for the young midfielder. As I mentioned above, Anelka forced a good save from Shay Given in the opening few seconds of the game. Malouda jumped onto the loose ball that resulted from Given's block but the Irish goalkeeper pulled out another great save. However, McEachran reacted first after that second save and struck the ball to the roof of the net. It is great that McEachran got the goal but what's more important, as I see it, is the fact that he is getting into the dangerous positions in the first place. This was a quick counter attacking movement and when Anelka took the first shot, there were only two Chelsea players in 18 yard box -- McEachran and Malouda. By the time Malouda struck his shot, Josh McEachran was the only Chelsea player in the six yard box, between three Villa defenders and the goalkeeper. Much have been said about<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><a href="http://carefreechronicles.blogspot.com/2011/07/josh-says-zidane-is-his-idol.html">using McEachran in a more advance position</a><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>and this goal was the direct result of Villas-Boas' decision push the young midfielder forward. In the past, it would have been Frank Lampard who was in that six yard box, stabbing a quick reaction goal. Signs of a changing time indeed.</p>
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<p style="margin: 0px;"> </p>
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<p style="margin: 0px;"><strong><em>He Scores</em></strong></p>
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<p style="margin: 0px;"> </p>
<p style="margin: 0px;">Goal scoring can sometimes be far too hard, yet it can also be way too easy at times. If you don't believe me, just ask Fernando Torres. The fact that a top quality striker scores a goal sounds rather mundane but that is not the reality that the<span style="font-family: inherit;"> <span>£50 million striker lives in. When he doesn't score, the world awaits the impeding doom. When he does score, a few rainbows and </span></span><span>unicorns</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span> are added to the outlook of the future. Torres came on as a substitute in the second half and scored with his first touch by gently guiding a shot/pass from Malouda into the net. I didn't worry too much when he didn't score and I don't think I will join the parade just because he scores. I'm with the manager who says,</span></span></p>
</div>
<blockquote>
<p style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">"Good for him because in the end when you find the back of the net it gives you more confidence but for us it's not important.</span></p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">We are happy with whoever scores, we had a couple of good chances today, not only from Fernando, a couple from Anelka, a couple from Daniel and we are happy the team is able to put them in the back of the net whoever scores and for us to be able to continue winning." (<a href="http://www.chelseafc.com/page/LatestNews/0,,10268%7E2405895,00.html">Source</a>)</span></p>
</blockquote>
<p style="margin: 0px;"><strong><em>Offensive Defense</em></strong></p>
<p style="margin: 0px;"> </p>
<p style="margin: 0px;">Finally, I would like to give a tip of my hat to the defense that has kept six clean sheets in six games. Since we have dominated the possession and the game, there weren't much for the defense to do but when they were needed, they did their job. Chelsea started with the back line of Bosingwa, Ivanovic, Terry and Zhirkov, with Cech in goal. Alex came in at half time due to a minor injury to Ivanovic but the transition was seamless. Terry has been a rock in the defense through out the pre-season and this game was not an exception. When asked about the impressive defensive work by Chelsea so far, Villas-Boas has this to say:</p>
<blockquote>
<p style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">"Our defensive work is an offensive weapon, that's what we have been telling the players. We want to attack more so for us to do that we have to get it back as soon as possible.</span></p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">These players have an excellent acceptance of these principles and are able to apply it. Thanks to them and their commitment we are able to put these ideas across and I think they are enjoying it." (<a href="http://www.chelseafc.com/page/LatestNews/0,,10268%7E2405895,00.html">Source</a>)</span></p>
</blockquote>
<p style="margin: 0px;">Using good pressure to get possession back quickly and applying offensive prowess as the best defensive measure? Barcelona-esque, wouldn't you say?</p>
<div style="margin: 0in;">
<p style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><em><span style="color: #000000;"><br /></span></em></span></p>
<p style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><em><span style="color: #000000;"><br /></span></em></span></p>
<p style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><em><span style="color: #000000;"><br /></span></em></span></p>
<p style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><em><span style="color: #000000;">Carefree, wherever you may be...</span></em></span></p>
</div>
<div style="margin: 0in;">
<p style="margin: 0px;"> </p>
</div>
<div style="margin: 0in;">
<p style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #000000;">You can follow me on Twitter </span><a href="http://www.twitter.com/carefreechronic">@CareFreeChronic</a><span style="color: #000000;">.</span></span></p>
</div>
<div style="margin: 0in;">
<p style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #000000;">You can also read my posts on <a href="http://www.carefreechronicles.blogspot.com">my blog</a></span><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>and<span style="color: #000000;"><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span><a href="http://bluetinted.com/">BlueTinted.com</a></span><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">.</span></span></p>
</div>
</div>
</div>
Lamin Oo
2011-08-02T14:40:00Z
Do you Yahoo?
Rafa
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Do-you-Yahoo/209219857924819847.html
2011-08-01T19:29:00Z
2011-08-01T19:29:00Z
It's true. <a title="Martin Rogers" href="http://twitter.com/#!/mrogersyahoo" target="_blank">Martin Rogers</a> of Yahoo Sports will be coming in to the World Football Daily studios to guest-host a show with Kenny. You can check out Martin's work on Yahoo <a title="Rogers" href="http://sports.yahoo.com/top/expertsarchive?author=martin+rogers" target="_blank">here</a>.<br /><br />There will be a ton to talk about with a list of excellent guests for the hosts to talk with. <a title="Wondo" href="http://twitter.com/#!/ChrisWondo" target="_blank">Chris Wondolowski</a> of the San Jose Earthquakes and USMNT representative will kick the show off. <a title="andy brassell" href="http://twitter.com/#!/andybrassell" target="_blank">Andy Brassell</a> should be joining us immediately following the MLS player. The we bring on Eurosport Presenter <a title="Tim Caple" href="http://twitter.com/#!/timcaple" target="_blank">Tim Caple</a> to talk some U-20 World Cup. Finally, we wrap the show with Eurosport journalist and Bundesliga commentator <a title="Ian Holyman" href="http://twitter.com/#!/ian_holyman" target="_blank">Ian Holyman</a>.<br /><br />You can call in to talk with Kenny and Martin at 310-909-8483. And if you can't call in during the show, no worries... just dial the phone number and leave a message on the Rant Line. Write us at show@worldfootballdaily.com. <br /><br />Follow all the tweets from the World Football Daily on Twitter <a title="@WFootballDaily" href="http://twitter.com/#!/@WFootballDaily" target="_blank">@WFootballDaily</a>. <br /><br />Follow the host of the show, Kenny Hassan <a title="@KennyWFDLive" href="http://twitter.com/#!/KennyWFDlive" target="_blank">@KennyWFDlive</a>.<br /><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Wondo.jpg" alt="Wondolowski" /><br /><br />
Rafa
2011-08-01T19:29:00Z
Left-Back Crack-Up
Nash Larson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Left-Back-Crack-Up/-258647635074675836.html
2011-08-01T19:22:00Z
2011-08-01T19:22:00Z
<p>If one thing that <span class="goog-spellcheck-word">pre</span>-season friendlies have reaffirmed for newly resurgent Liverpool is that they are still frail in the the back. King Kenny has hinted at this himself, but so far has done nothing to change it. In building the <span class="goog-spellcheck-word">Dalglish</span> dynasty, the <span class="goog-spellcheck-word">Merseyside</span> club have procured many new faces to plug the gaps that need filling. With an overloaded midfield, some width, and a attacking force to reckoned with, one hole remains unfilled. The vacant spot of left- back has been a perilous void, ever since the departure of John Arne <span class="goog-spellcheck-word">Riise</span>. With out any talent brought in to address this issue directly, the left- back spot has been a bi-polar position for the reds in recent times, full of nutters, <span class="goog-spellcheck-word">un</span>-tested youth and player's playing out of position. From the <span class="goog-spellcheck-word">Benitez</span> era to date, we have seen a whole host of different faces try to scale the void and make the spot their own, but to no avail as of now. To look at Liverpool's books , you would find that they have a few players that can, and have occupied that position. Much speculation has been a drift with Liverpool reportedly chasing Newcastle's Jose Enrique, but just of a few day's ago Newcastle have stated no formal bid has been submitted. Can Liverpool work with the player's they have or does a marquee, international-quality left-back need to enter the fray. Let us take a look at Liverpool's options and assess:</p>
<p><img style="vertical-align: top; margin-top: 5px; margin-bottom: 5px; display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="/images/blog/liverpool defense.jpg" alt="" /></p>
<p>Take Brazilian Fabio Aurelio, once regarded as one of the best left-backs in Spain playing for <span class="goog-spellcheck-word">Benitez's</span> Valencia, now finds himself very much a fringe player at <span class="goog-spellcheck-word">Anfield</span>. Troubled by Injury Aurelio didn't feature much the last couple seasons, but when fit showed flashes of brilliance. All you have to do is look at his prowess from a set piece, best represented in Liverpool's Champions league semi final vs. Chelsea, catching Petr <span class="goog-spellcheck-word">Cech</span> out at his near post. When Roy <span class="goog-spellcheck-word">Hodgson</span> took over the helm, Aurelio look set to leave Liverpool but resigned, yet still played infrequently. Besides his neat work with a dead ball, Aurelio runs rather hot and cold for me, not consistent enough for week in week out selection, spotty in defense and attack, as he often likes to bomb up the wings. He has been used as a left wing-back when <span class="goog-spellcheck-word">Dalgleish</span> uses 3 at the back with 2 wing-backs, allowing him to impose himself offensively. Is he Liverpool's answer to their left back predicament?..no way jose…but a good back up to have.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><span class="goog-spellcheck-word">Emiliano</span> <span class="goog-spellcheck-word">Insua</span> is another left back currently on Liverpool's roster, yet isn't seen playing in red all that often. The former <span class="goog-spellcheck-word">Boca</span> <span class="goog-spellcheck-word">Junior's</span> man in neither an unproven youngster, or a regular first <span class="goog-spellcheck-word">teamer</span>, having made 44 appearances for Liverpool since his signing in 2007. Last season he was loaned out to <span class="goog-spellcheck-word">Galatasaray</span>, but since has joined Liverpool in their <span class="goog-spellcheck-word">pre</span>-season tour, looking impressive and even notching a goal in their 6-3 win over a Malaysian side. <span class="goog-spellcheck-word">Dalgleish</span> could have bigger plans for the somewhat forgotten Argentine this season, other than loaning him out. He is a promising talent no doubt but I often get the sense that he doesn't really want to be playing his football at <span class="goog-spellcheck-word">Anfield</span>, and might possibly be eyeing a move this summer. In the 2009-10 season when Liverpool came close to claiming the title, <span class="goog-spellcheck-word">Insua</span> enjoyed a good run of games due to then left back Andrea <span class="goog-spellcheck-word">Dossena's</span> poor form, and Aurelio's injury woes. To insure he gets a central role this season he has to improve in some facets of his game. He is slight in the tackle, and slight in stature standing a mere 5'10, contributing to his ineptness in the air. He is slow to react and has slow acceleration from a standing position, though looked quick when he could run into attacking positions. Under the guidance of King Kenny maybe <span class="goog-spellcheck-word">Insua</span> can turn into the player he looks he can, and some of his faults should be cured with regular playing time. Another loan I feel would be detrimental to his development and possibly turn him off Liverpool all together. Is he the answer?…possibly, but could give a few Liverpool fans near heart attacks with his decision making.</p>
<p> Glen Johnson needs no introduction as he is a strait up starter in the Liverpool set-up. Primarily a right back, was used on the left last season to supplement the lack of options at their disposal. His performances where passable in this foreign position, to which he didn't look so happy in, a part of the English players mentality when asked to play out of position… but I digress. What made this acceptable was that there was back up on the right- Glen's normal position- in the frame of Martin Kelly. Young, but a tremendous prospect! Liverpool's most exciting talent to emerge from their youth system in a while plays pretty exclusively right back and has a knack for getting forward. Kelly's rise to significance and a stretched back line justified moving Johnson onto the left. Kelly is one for the future, and I could see a situation occurring where Johnson plays as the right wing-back in a 3-5-2, for he is almost better going forward than back, and Kelly playing as the left sided center-back. What I can deduce from last season is that Johnson playing on the left is not the answer, so a new signing seems necessary. </p>
<p> In summary Kenny will have to either trust in youth, or splash the cash and bring a top quality defender to <span class="goog-spellcheck-word">Anfield</span> this summer . It's apparent that the weak spot in the Liverpool's squad is in defense, weakest being the left-back position. This combined with lack of depth, an aging <span class="goog-spellcheck-word">Carragher</span>, and Johnson's lack of defensive clout, it is a back line that needs added steel. At one time rumored to be in for <span class="goog-spellcheck-word">Udinese's</span> Christian Zapata, but proceedings have since cooled and now looks like only a dying ember of hope, that the Colombian will sign with the <span class="goog-spellcheck-word">Merseyside</span> outfit. Liverpool are most heavily linked with Newcastle's want away Argentinian, Jose Enrique, and if signed would do a job for the team, as a consistent performer for many years up in Tyne side. Enrique is the best and the easiest option at the moment, as I would really like to see Liverpool chasing somebody of Phillip <span class="goog-spellcheck-word">Lahm's</span> stature, but where the club stands at the moment renders that just unrealistic. Liverpool cannot afford to endure another season of conceding unnecessary goals due to a weak back line, it needs reinforcements, In the center and on the left. Buying a quality left -back should be <span class="goog-spellcheck-word">Dalglish's</span> next move in the transfer market. The old expression always rings true of success being of built from the back, a expression that in viewing the signings this summer, is not in the Scot's vocabulary.</p>
<p> </p>
<p> <a href="http://spotkickjournalism.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">http://spotkickjournalism.blogspot.com/</a></p>
Nash Larson
2011-08-01T19:22:00Z
Klinsmann Ushers in a New Era for the United States Men's Team
Sean Marraffini
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Klinsmann-Ushers-in-a-New-Era-for-the-United-States-Mens-Team/-263804486550139652.html
2011-08-01T14:52:00Z
2011-08-01T14:52:00Z
<p>This afternoon, Sunil Gulati, President of the US soccer federation, announced the hiring of former German coach and World Cup winner, Jurgen Klinsmann, to be the next coach of the US men’s national team.</p>
<p>Not long after the defeat at the hands of Mexico in the Gold Cup, and after an overall questionable performance throughout the tournament, now with about two weeks before a rematch in Philadelphia, the US had to make a change.</p>
<p>Before the Gold Cup, it had seemed that former coach Bob Bradley has gotten the most out of the team that he could, winning the group at the World Cup for the first time since 1950. Coming in second at the Confederations Cup and winning the 2007 Gold Cup. He has quite a resume in his five year tenure.</p>
<p>It could be argued that only three coaches have had better success on the world stage, being Vicente Del Bosque (Winner of Euro 2008 and 2010 World Cup), Dunga (2007 Copa America and 2009 Confederations Cup winner) and Jochim Low (strong showings at all levels in European competition.)</p>
<p>Klinsmann’s knowledge of the game will be the most important thing he brings to this US side. He has played at the top level in Europe for both club and country. His understanding of how the game is played globally will benefit the team very well. With 2010 and the Gold Cup well behind them, It’s time to regroup and use that knowledge and focus on qualifying for 2014.</p>
<p>With the rise of Chicharito and his Mexican team’s performance, the US will at the least have one constant contender in CONCACAF. With only three qualifying spots on the line, the US cannot afford to make too many mistakes.</p>
<p>Being one of the higher seeded teams based on past performance in CONCACAF, the US has sometime before they have to start qualifying, which gives Klinsmann time to use the next three friendlies (Mexico, Costa Rica and Belgium) to start to find a squad that can compete at the highest level.</p>
<p>Klinsmann coming onto the scene has a team with a lot of players still on the right side of 30 that has proven after the second place finish at the Confederations Cup, the bar has been raised for the US. They have proven they can play with the top dogs and need to continue to play with that competitive edge.</p>
<p>Klinsmann will bring a bit more of respectability to the squad as well. His track record speaks for its self. His legacy mixed with the potential success of the United States the current 30<sup>th</sup> world ranking will be a thing of the past.</p>
<p>This is the kind of steps that the US needs to take to make a real run at a World Cup. I will be at his testimonial in Philadelphia, as well as many other American fans to see the beginning of what should be a very bright future of US soccer program.</p>
<p>More will be known when a press conference is held with Klinsmann in New York on August 1<sup>st</sup>.</p>
Sean Marraffini
2011-08-01T14:52:00Z
US Soccer Name Klinsmann Head Coach
Rafa
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/US-Soccer-Name-Klinsmann-Head-Coach/75607549980162.html
2011-07-29T20:16:00Z
2011-07-29T20:16:00Z
And we have a new coach of the US Men's National Soccer Team. Jurgen Klinsmann takes over where Bob Bradley left off and we are undoubtedly set for an interesting next few years in US Soccer.<br /><br />We had quite the show today covering this topic including the likes of Taylor Twellman, Mia Hamm, Ives Galarcep, The Shin Guardian and much more.<br /><br />Here's the story straight from <a title="Bob Bradley is Fired" href="http://www.ussoccer.com/News/Mens-National-Team/2011/07/Bradleys-Tenure-Ends.aspx" target="_blank">US Soccer's website</a>:<br /><br />
<p><em>CHICAGO (July 29, 2011) — U.S. Soccer President Sunil Gulati named Jürgen Klinsmann as head coach of the U.S. Men’s National Team today, making him the 35<sup>th</sup> coach in the history of the program.</em></p>
<p><em>“We are excited to have Jürgen as the head coach of our Men’s National Team,” said Gulati. “He is a highly accomplished player and coach with the experience and knowledge to advance the program. Jürgen has had success in many different areas of the game and we look forward to the leadership he will provide on and off the field.” </em></p>
<p><em>U.S. Soccer will hold a press conference in New York on Monday, Aug. 1, to formally introduce Klinsmann. Further details regarding the press conference will be released later today.</em></p>
<p><em>Klinsmann’s first match in charge of the U.S. National Team will be against Mexico on Aug. 10 in Philadelphia. Tickets are still available for the match and can be purchased at ussoccer.com. Kickoff is set for 9 p.m. ET and the match will be broadcast live on ESPN2, ESPN3.com and Univision. In addition, Univision will air a live pre-game show beginning at 8:30 p.m. ET.</em></p>
<p><em>“I am proud and honored to be named the head coach of the U.S. Men’s National Team,” said Klinsmann. “I would like to thank the U.S. Soccer Federation for the opportunity, and I’m excited about the challenge ahead. I am looking forward to bringing the team together for our upcoming match against Mexico and starting on the road toward qualifying for the 2014 FIFA World Cup.”</em></p>
Write us at show@worldfootballdaily.com.<br /><br />Follow all the tweets from the World Football Daily on Twitter <a title="@WFootballDaily" href="http://twitter.com/#!/@WFootballDaily" target="_blank">@WFootballDaily</a>. <br /><br />Follow the host of the show, Kenny Hassan <a title="@KennyWFDLive" href="http://twitter.com/#!/KennyWFDlive" target="_blank">@KennyWFDlive</a>.<br /><br /><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/klinsmann.jpg" alt="" /><br /><br />
Rafa
2011-07-29T20:16:00Z
Blues turn to Pastore
Chelsea are in the running to sign Palermo playmaker Javier Pastore
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Blues-turn-to-Pastore/201875227410870256.html
2011-07-29T13:50:00Z
2011-07-29T13:50:00Z
<p>Chelsea are in the running to sign Palermo playmaker Javier Pastore, casting into doubt the likelihood of Luka Modric’s transfer to Stamford Bridge.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Pastore is rated as one of the top prospects in Serie A and is set to cost the Blues upwards of £25million should he arrive in the Premier League.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>However, Andre Villas-Boas’ side face competition for the player’s signature from French Ligue 1 outfit Paris Saint-Germain, who have recently been bankrolled by a consortium from Qatar.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Reports had claimed that PSG had been close to sealing a deal for the player, but Palermo president Maurizio Zamparini has claimed that these are wide of the mark.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>He also claimed that the player’s agent could rendezvous with Chelsea to discuss terms.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>"Tomorrow [Friday 29 July] his agent Marcelo Simonian will be in London to meet Chelsea," Zamparini told <em>Stadio News.</em></p>
<p><em> </em></p>
<p>He also told a radio station that reports that a deal with PSG had been completed were ‘an invention’, but admitted that the player looks certain to depart the club and head abroad.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Zamparini also claimed that offers for the player lodged between 40 and 50million Euros, though it is thought that Chelsea could land the player for less.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>If Pastore does pen a deal at Stamford Bridge, a move by the Blues for Tottenham Hotspur’s Luka Modric could fail to materialise.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>According to those looking ahead to <a href="http://euro2012onlinebetting.com/euro-2012-odds/">Euro 2012 odds</a>, Manchester United and Manchester City are also thought to be in the hunt for the Croatian.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Recently retired midfielder and United legend Paul Scholes recently offered a public backing of the transfer of Modric to the Red Devils, similarly to the way Chelsea captain John Terry praised the Spurs player.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Scholes claimed to <a href="http://www.euro2012onlinebetting.com">Euro 2012 betting</a> pundits that of the three apparent United targets, Modric, Samir Nasri and Wesley Sneijder, it was the Tottenham player he would most like to see in a red shirt. </p>
Chelsea are in the running to sign Palermo playmaker Javier Pastore
2011-07-29T13:50:00Z
This Is No Kindergarten Pick-Up Game, It's A World Cup For God's Sake
Scott Byington
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/This-Is-No-Kindergarten-Pick-Up-Game,-Its-A-World-Cup-For-Gods-Sake/-800925514496585599.html
2011-07-29T01:21:00Z
2011-07-29T01:21:00Z
The global game played on the grandest of global scales. Few other sporting events hold a flame to the glory that is the World Cup. It is the event that breeds immortal legends and writes football’s history all on it’s own. From the Brazil squad of 1970 to the defining moments of the Maradona mystique, the World Cup has been the football theatre of greatest display. So that to say, do not be fooled by the “U-20” qualifier defining the World Cup tournament kicking-off in less than 24 hours in Columbia. Despite its youth filled squads, this is a World Cup tournament nonetheless, full of all the promise and intrigue that the senior tournament offers.<br /><br />The current holder is Ghana, who in 2009 became the first African nation to lift the cup. Historically, Argentina hold the most success at the tournament, having won the competition on six different occasions, though Brazil will be just one shy of equaling this total should they go on to glory in the upcoming weeks. And of course, it is these two teams that yet again hold the public captive going into competition.<br /><br /><img src="/images/blog/Ghana.U20WC.jpg" alt="" /><br /><br />Of the two, Argentina appear the weaker side. Despite La Albiceleste being the historical team-to-beat, with past squads boasting Golden Boot winners such as Leo Messi, Sergio Augero and even the legendary El Pibe de Oro himself, the current crop of players is a shade less impressive. These young men only mustered a third-place finish earlier this year during Peru’s South American U-20 Championship and have failed to impress since then, failing to qualify for the 2012 Olympic Games. <br /><br />Much like their senior counterparts, this younger Albiceleste side lacks a cohesive and creative midfield. Perhaps though it is time for former River Plate prodigy and new AS Roma recruit, Erik Lamela, to prove his talent on the grandest of stages. Should Lamela be on his game, keep an eye on his link-up play with fellow virtuoso, Juan Manuel Iturbe. A productive partnership between these two is a devastating proposition.<br /><br />While Argentina place their hopes on these two rising stars, Brazil are happily placing theirs on an entire starting XI. Perhaps a bit of hyperbole, but this superb squad of samba boys is with no doubt the tournament favorite. They were the deserved winners of this year’s South American U-20 Championship, thumping runners-up Uruguay 6-0. <br /><br />However, that conquering team will be without their attacking starlets, Neymar and Lucas, since the pair were called up to represent A Seleção in the Copa America. Nevertheless, Brazil will be confident of reaching the final as their star-studded midfield boasts the likes of Inter Milan’s Philippe Coutinho, Porto’s hard-hitting Fernando, Santo’s Alan Patrick and Sao Paulo’s rising-star Casemiro. Attack minded fullbacks Alex Sandro and the impressive Danilo, both newly signed by Porto, will also prove to be a handful for opposing teams. If you’re the betting type, here is your team.<br /><br />But it would not be a World Cup without some dark horses looking to cause some trouble. On the whole, football in Uruguay is on a bit of a renaissance, and after an impressive South American U-20 Championship, La Celeste will be no slouches in this competition. The same could be said of Mexico. The U-20 side has watched both their younger counterparts claim the U-17 World Cup trophy and the senior squad lift the Gold Cup this summer so there should be no shortage of confidence and motivation. <br /><br />Most likely though to cause a stir, and break the South American dominance of the tournament, will be none other than the boys from Spain. With Spanish football being all the rage these days, it is no surprise the U-20 Spanish side boasts a wealth of talent capable of winning it all. With Chelsea’s new boy Oriol Romeu bossing the midfield, look to Kiko, Sergio Canales and Daniel Pacheco to add a bit of flair to the La Roja attack while the likes of Isco and Rodrigo lead the line. These boys will have no shortage of aspiration given all the footballing glory surrounding their homeland as of late. <br /><br />You may have to dig a bit, but don’t let the national broadcasters here in the States rob you of a World Cup experience. Columbia 2011 is a World Cup event worthy of a worldwide audience. Tune in, you won’t be disappointed.<br /><br />
Scott Byington
2011-07-29T01:21:00Z
Bob Bradley is Gone
Rafa
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Bob-Bradley-is-Gone/-505203856563596706.html
2011-07-29T00:32:00Z
2011-07-29T00:32:00Z
So World Football Daily signs off the air and what happens? Oh that's right, Bob Bradley gets fired. Well at least there will be plenty to talk about tomorrow.<br /><br />Make sure to dial in the show first thing at 9am PST or leave a message on the Rant Line at 310.909.8483.<br /><br />Here's the story straight from <a title="Bob Bradley is Fired" href="http://www.ussoccer.com/News/Mens-National-Team/2011/07/Bradleys-Tenure-Ends.aspx" target="_blank">US Soccer's website</a>:<br /><br />
<p><em>CHICAGO (July 28, 2011) — U.S. Soccer President Sunil Gulati announced today that Bob Bradley has been relieved of his duties as the head coach of the U.S. Men’s National Team.</em></p>
<p><em>“We want to thank Bob Bradley for his service and dedication to U.S. Soccer during the past five years,” said Gulati. “During his time as the head coach of our Men’s National Team he led the team to a number of accomplishments, but we felt now was the right time for us to make a change. It is always hard to make these decisions, especially when it involves someone we respect as much as Bob. We wish him the best in his future endeavors.”</em></p>
<p><em>This announcement comes after a meeting at The Home Depot Center in Carson, Calif., between Gulati, Bradley and U.S. Soccer CEO Dan Flynn.</em></p>
<p><em>Bradley was named the head coach of the U.S. MNT in January of 2007 and during his five-year tenure compiled a 43-25-12 record. He led the team to a number of accomplishments, including winning the 2007 CONCACAF Gold Cup, finishing second in the 2009 FIFA Confederations Cup, winning their World Cup qualifying group and advancing to the Round of 16 of the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa.</em></p>
<em> U.S. Soccer will have a further announcement on Friday.</em><br /><br /><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/photos/bradleypc.jpg" alt="" /><br />Write us at show@worldfootballdaily.com.<br /><br />Follow all the tweets from the World Football Daily on Twitter <a title="@WFootballDaily" href="http://twitter.com/#!/@WFootballDaily" target="_blank">@WFootballDaily</a>. <br /><br />Follow the host of the show, Kenny Hassan <a title="@KennyWFDLive" href="http://twitter.com/#!/KennyWFDlive" target="_blank">@KennyWFDlive</a>.<br /><br /><br /><br />
Rafa
2011-07-29T00:32:00Z
Mike Check. One, Two.
Lamin Oo
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Mike-Check.-One,-Two./-343286883570821209.html
2011-07-27T17:39:00Z
2011-07-27T17:39:00Z
The Villas-Boas era at Chelsea FC started out with a setback. In early July, Chelsea's midfield engine Michael Essien injured his right knee in training. After a successful surgery, it was announced that <a href="http://www.chelseafc.com/page/LatestNews/0,,10268~2390624,00.html">the Ghanaian international will be out for at least six months</a>. As the speculations of his replacement continue to circulate, I take a look back at Michael Essien's contribution to Chelsea in Barclay's Premier League 2010-2011.<br /><br />First let me just state the obvious that it is easier to analyze the performance of a solely attacking or a solely defending player than that of a midfielder who is involved in both offense and defense. The statistics, such as Goals and Assists, give you a neat and tidy picture of a striker's input. Clean Sheets, on the other hand, tell you how effective a defender is. Although these numbers and statistics can be used to evaluate a midfielder, they do not tell you the whole story.<br />
<p>At any rate, here are <a href="http://soccernet.espn.go.com/team/squad?id=363&cc=5901">the usual statistics of Michael Essien in the Premier League 2010-2011</a>.</p>
<p class="separator"><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Essien 2010-2011.jpg" alt="" /> </p>
On the surface, it looks pretty unimpressive. Even a defender like Branislav Ivanovic (4 goals and 4 assists) has scored more goals and provided more assists than Essien. The Chelsea number 5 also committed a number of fouls and he was the only Chelsea player to have been sent off in this past Premier League season. However, one rather unsuspecting statistics caught my eyes. Foul Suffered.<br /><br /><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/1880979566-21102009203119.jpg" alt="" /><br /><br />As it turns out, Essien was the most fouled Chelsea player in the Premier League last season. He was fouled 53 times. [Note: Ashley Cole, who was fouled 45 times, is in the second place.] Generally, we don't look at Foul Suffered (FS) as an important measure of a player's contribution but a quick look at recent history tells us that we might be missing out by ignoring that particular statistics.<br />
<p>In 2009-2010 double winning season, Didier Drogba, the top goal scorer of that season, was the most fouled Chelsea player in the league, with 55 FS's. In the Back To Back title winning seasons of 04-05 and 05-06, "the irreplaceable" Claude Makelele held the high numbers of FS in the Chelsea squad, with 69 and 60 in the respective seasons. If we look over at Manchester United, Christiano Ronaldo (Surprise, surprise) was the most fouled United player from 2006 to 2009, during which the Red Devils won three consecutive league titles -- 06-07 (98), 07-08 (82), and 08-09 (79). Over the years, FS has a painful badge of honor reserved for impact making players.</p>
<p>Plus, if you look at which players from last season (10-11) have suffered the most fouls in their respective clubs, you will notice a similar trend -- good players get fouled.<br /><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Fouled Suffered By Top 5 Clus 2010-2011.jpg" alt="" /></p>
<p><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />Even by briefly scanning through these names, you might recognize that players who are prone to be fouled by opponents can be generally divided into two camps – those that do step-overs and those that never stop running. The likes of Ronaldo, Nani, Drogba, Fabregas, Bale and Van der Vaart are skillful, attack minded players who belong to the “step-over camp”. On the other hand, the likes of Makelele, Essien, Park, De Jong, Tevez and Modric are players, with lungs the size of Goodyear blimps, who chase loose balls, close down on oppositions and are always on the move throughout the whole game. The latter camp might be called the “industrious camp.” I think this FS statistics of Michael Essien tells us a lot about his performance for Chelsea last season and the nature of his game in general.</span></p>
<p><strong><span style="font-family: inherit;"><em>Ball Possession</em></span></strong></p>
<p>First of all, you don't need to have a UEFA coaching license to figure out that a player is most likely to be fouled when he is in possession of the ball. Fouls are usually committed when a player tries to dispossess the ball from the opponent. Essien's high FS number hints that he probably had a lot of ball possession last season. Plus, you know a player is doing a great job of possessing the ball if the only way opponents can dispossess the ball from him is to commit a foul. This assessment is supported by another statistics -- Pass Received (PR) -- which was tweeted by <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/OptaJoe">OptaJoe</a>. </p>
<p><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Essien Pass Recieved Tweet.jpg" alt="" />Essien received 2004 passes in the 2010-2011 Premier League season, making him the top pass receiver in the entire league. This, again, indicates that he had a lot of the ball possession for Chelsea last season. He was the main connection between the defense and the offense -- receiving balls from the defense to move forward and collecting the pass back from the offense when attack needed to change direction. His FS and PR statistics also point to another attribute in Essien's game.</p>
<p><strong><em>Stamina</em></strong></p>
<p>Even a casual football player, who conducts his trade in weekend kick about games bumpy pitches of the local park, may have observed that players tend to commit fouls when they are tired. Worn out legs often equal clumsy challenges. Hence, it does not seem out of ordinary that a player like Essien, who can run tirelessly through out the whole ninety minutes, has been fouled many times. Again, his high PR statistics is a testament to Essien's stamina; a player can only receive a pass if he is in open positions, which he has to run to create for himself on most occasions. </p>
<p><strong><em>Get Stuck In</em></strong></p>
<p>Finally, let me make another point, which might be already obvious to most of you, regarding what FS statistics can tell us about the player who has come to be known as "The Bison." One fail-safe way to avoid being fouled or committing a foul is to not go in for 50-50 balls. You won't get wet if you don't go near water. But, we all know what kind of a player Michael Essien is. He has never been shy to get stuck in. It is often a concern with players who come back from serious injuries that they wouldn't go into challenges that could possibly put them back onto crutches. Essien has just returned from his knee injury before last season but he seems to have kept his inner "bison" alive.</p>
<p><strong><em>Hail To The Beast</em></strong></p>
<p>To most fans, it felt as if Essien did not have a great season in 2010-2011 and they are probably right. Essien should get his share of the blame for a trophy-less season. But if what Chelsea lacked season, as pointed out by both fans and analysts, was offensive creativity, then the charge against Essien should be more lenient, for he has never been known for skills and flairs. His game is built on endless energy, commitment, power and strength, which he has shown plenty in his performance last season. I think the Foul Suffered statistics support that observation. </p>
<p>Chelsea will find a way to replace the Ghanaian while he recovers from his latest injury but he will surely be missed. I truly hope that he can come back better and stronger.<br /><br /><em>Carefree, wherever you may be...<br /><br /></em>You can follow me on twitter <a href="http://www.twitter.com/carefreechronic">@CareFreeChronic</a>. </p>
You can also read my other post on <a href="http://www.carefreechronicles.blogspot.com">my blog</a> or on <a href="http://www.bluetinted.com">BlueTinted.com</a>.
Lamin Oo
2011-07-27T17:39:00Z
LA Galaxy 1-1 Manchester City (6-7 penalties)
Casey Keirnan
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/LA-Galaxy-1-1-Manchester-City-6-7-penalties/-581809019218077864.html
2011-07-25T04:33:00Z
2011-07-25T04:33:00Z
A crowd of 24,897 were left with excitement following an nine round shootout at the Home Depot Center in Carson, California. The game gave us goals, crowd gamesmanship, and a Mario Balotelli meltown - but what else do we expect from the Ghanaian-born Italian striker.<br /><br />The Galaxy started the game without the favors of both Juan Pablo Angel and Landon Donovan (who has now said he will not play in the MLS All-Star game vs. Manchester United on Wednesday). Meanwhile, City put on a starting XI that was quite strong and the starting XI you could see from Mancini's side come August 6th in the Community Shield vs. Manchester United.<br /><br />The game started off with a scare as newly bought left back Gael Clichy, formerly of Arsenal, took a serious knock to the head. The Frenchman tried to get up but stumbled over and the trainers were immediately for assistance by the players. Good news though, Clichy came back on three minutes later and was able to finish the half. <br /><br />David Silva looked lively all first half, more so when he received the ball in the box from Balotelli and shrugged himself away from his defender (well done as well for the small midfielder) and hit a shot across the goal and just wide.<br /><br />City then were able to get their goal. Micah Richards received the ball on the right and made a darting run past Bryan Jordan and into the penalty area where he was brought down by the Galaxy midfielder for a penalty. Mario Balotelli stepped up for the kick and sent Galaxy Goalkeeper Josh Saunders the wrong way for a 1-0 lead.<br /><br /><img src="/images/blog/100MEDIA_IMAG0295.jpg" alt="" /><br /><br />We were privileged enough to sit behind some Citeh supporters who were ranting and raving at the Angel City Brigade. After the Balotelli goal, the Angel City Brigade greeted the City supporters with a chant of, "You'll never beat United!" Great stuff from a near sold out crowd.<br /><br />Balotelli made things interesting a half hour in. He received a beautiful pass from Silva and was left 1-on-1 with Saunders and a chance for a 2-0 lead, but, for some reason, turned and tried to back heel the ball into the net. The shot went wide. <br /><br />Mancini was not best pleased on the sidelines and immediately took Mario off and put on James Milner. Balotelli yelled expletives in Italian towards his coach as he was obviously not pleased with the substitution. Mancini did say afterward that no further punishment would be put on the young striker. And Balotelli was not available for comment after the game.<br /><br />The second half started brightly for the Galaxy. Dan Keat sent a cross field pass to Chris Birchall who head the ball down into the path of Mike Magee who was able to control the ball and send it over the head of Joe Hart and into the back of the net on the half volley. 1-1. Great goal from Magee.<br /><br />Not a whole lot more action in the second frame except at the end. Manchester City sub John Guidetti found himself in the box and was able to get a foot to it for a shot that was saved, then his rebound shot was put over the net and into the crowd. That goal would have secured victory for City.<br /><br />Full Time ended and the game, per tournament rules, went straight to penalties. Keat, Birchall, Milner, and Weiss each scored for their respective teams. Juninho missed with a shot off the bar and Suarez made for a 3-2 City lead after 3 penalties each.<br /><br />Dunivant and Kolarov each scored in round 4; and Stephens scored for the Galaxy at the start of round 5 to even the score. Guidetti had another chance to win it for City but his shot was saved and the shootout went into sudden death.<br /><br />Round 6 saw both McBean and Lescott miss their chances; round 7 Gonzales and de Jong each scored; round 8 McCarty and Shaun Wright-Phillips scored. Round 9 de la Garza missed his penalty which was saved by Hart, who then, picked the ball up, put it on the spot, and blasted it in the top corner to give City the win 7-6 on penalties. Great shootout to witness.<br /><br />After the game, Casey caught both Adam Johnson and Joe Hart as we were walking out and took a nice photo with the City duo. Very nice, Casey.<br /><br /><img src="/images/blog/100MEDIA_IMAG0299.jpg" alt="" width="408" height="244" /><br /><br />
Casey Keirnan
2011-07-25T04:33:00Z
Tevez still determined to leave
Thomas Rooney
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Tevez-still-determined-to-leave/-932348408754444043.html
2011-07-22T08:45:00Z
2011-07-22T08:45:00Z
<p>Despite his move to Corinthians falling through, Carlos Tevez has made it clear that he is still determined to leave Manchester City.</p>
<p>The player’s representative has said that he is “not overly worried” about the Brazilian club’s withdrawal from the £40m deal for the striker and believes there are plenty of other options.</p>
<p>Kia Joorabchian said: “This is Carlos Tevez we are talking about, one of the best players in the world. We are not overly worried.”</p>
<p>“He wants to leave but is still a City player at the moment and we will of course respect that. We've just got to wait and see who comes in next for him.”</p>
<p>Following the move to Corinthians falling through, it was suggested that Tevez could remain a City player as time was running out before the start of the season.</p>
<p>However, Joorabchian is clearly confident that there will be some interested clubs. This will no doubt be the case as Tevez is a world-class player, but there is a difference between clubs being interested and clubs agreeing a deal with Manchester City.</p>
<p>The Premier League club have made it clear to <a href="http://www.bigfreebet.com/sports-betting/football-betting/">football betting</a> pundits that they do not need to sell their captain and if they do not receive a sufficient offer, the deal won’t go through. The player wants to leave and the club are willing to sell at the right price, but it isn’t always that simple.</p>
<p>How many clubs realistically have £40m to spend on a player at this stage of the summer? Normally the only club we mention in terms of having this spending power are....Manchester City.</p>
<p>Basically, this could get ugly. With Copa America over, Tevez needs to return to Manchester for pre-season training and having made it clear that he wants to leave, this could create an unwelcome atmosphere. Will we get him refusing to return? It seems like a possibility.</p>
<p>Quite simply, it remains unclear where Tevez will be playing next season. Whether a loan move away from Manchester City is an option on a short-term basis, much like when Robinho moved away from the club, who knows.</p>
<p>This has been one of the biggest talking points of the summer and to be honest, it will probably continue to be over the next few weeks. Joy!</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
Thomas Rooney
2011-07-22T08:45:00Z
The Sounders are Soundly Whipped!
Rafa
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/The-Sounders-are-Soundly-Whipped!/569010871825761414.html
2011-07-21T21:37:00Z
2011-07-21T21:37:00Z
That is the question we need to ask ourselves. Does having Manchester United whipping our MLS boys help the league or hinder the growth? Does Real Madrid coming to Los Angeles to breeze by a LA Galaxy team really bring the right attention to the league and football in this country or does it make American Soccer look like a joke?<br /><br />That's all I am saying.<br /><br />I just can't see why having Manchester United come to one of the best venues in the country to school a team in front of the home crowd, 7-0 while Sir Alex goes on about how great the game is going here in the states cannot be a positive thing.<br /><br />If you disagree, call in the show or leave a message on the Rant Line at 310.909.8483 or write us at show@worldfootballdaily.com.<br /><br />Follow all the tweets from the World Football Daily on Twitter <a title="@WFootballDaily" href="http://twitter.com/#!/@WFootballDaily" target="_blank">@WFootballDaily</a>. <br /><br />Follow the host of the show, Kenny Hassan <a title="@KennyWFDLive" href="http://twitter.com/#!/KennyWFDlive" target="_blank">@KennyWFDlive</a>.<br /><br /><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/ManUnitedSounders.jpg" alt="" /><br /><br />
Rafa
2011-07-21T21:37:00Z
Who can stop Barcelona in the Champions League?
Can anyone stop Barcelona?
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Who-can-stop-Barcelona-in-the-Champions-League/205640515479531324.html
2011-07-20T11:26:00Z
2011-07-20T11:26:00Z
<p>Can anyone stop Barcelona? Their Champions League record over the last few years speaks for itself. They came up against English champions Manchester United, a team that fancied their chances of beating the Spanish giants, and got played off the Wembley park.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>According to most placing <a href="http://www.bigfreebet.com/">free bets</a>, they are arguably the best side in Europe and their win proved it as they dominated United from start to finish. It’s hard to see how they could improve their squad and, with manager Pep Guardiola hoping to reunite Arsenal midfielder Cesc Fabregas with his Spanish team-mates, the Catalan side are likely to be stronger this time around.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>They have some of the best players in the world, all over the pitch. Their defence always seems to get criticised, but in Carlos Puyol and Gerard Pique, they have quality across their backline.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Their midfielders are the best in the world. The way Xavi and Andres Iniesta caress the ball around the pitch, creating chances for Lionel Messi and David Villa. Villa must be licking his lips every time the Spanish midfielders collect the ball as he knows there is a goal scoring opportunity. </p>
<p> </p>
<p>Messi constantly defies what someone can do with a football. It’s as if the ball is stuck to his boot, its textbook dribbling. If you are placing a <a href="http://www.bigfreebet.com/">free bet</a> on his success, you will know how defenders must be frightened lining up against Barca because they know they are in for a tough night, with all the attacking talent on the field.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>In Europe, there is no chance they will ever exit the group stages due to their superiority to destroy teams at the Nou Camp. Inter Milan, under Jose Mourinho, found a way of beating them last season in the semi-finals but that was a one-off.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Home advantage is vital when playing Barcelona, but just as Arsenal found out last season, even if you beat them on home soil, they are going to be too strong in Spain.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The best chance a team has of beating them is a one-off match, the final, but after seeing them beat Alex Ferguson’s side so easily, that theory is extinguished.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>People do rave about Barcelona and so they should. After taking apart arguably the second best side in Europe, Manchester United, so comfortably in the Champions League final, it’s impossible to find a side that are likely to topple them.</p>
<p> </p>
Can anyone stop Barcelona?
2011-07-20T11:26:00Z
Reactions and Reflections: Portsmouth vs Chelsea (Pre-Season)
Lamin Oo
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Reactions-and-Reflections:-Portsmouth-vs-Chelsea-Pre-Season/-872474011562341630.html
2011-07-19T14:50:00Z
2011-07-19T14:50:00Z
<div>
<p><img style="margin: 5px auto; display: block;" src="/images/blog/Pre Match - Friendly - Portsmouth v. Chelsea - 16-07-11-muxed (1)[(002199)15-41-00].JPG" alt="" width="376" height="210" /></p>
<p>I find pre-season games odd. I enjoy seeing the team in action after a LONG summer break and just being back in the football-state-of-mind. But as far as analyzing the team’s performance is concerned, I am not really sure how to react to pre-season games.</p>
</div>
<div>
<p>In some ways, I feel like a dad who has to deal with his teenage daughter’s boyfriend. You know that the kids are still young and that their relationship is probably not too serious. So you try not to draw too many conclusions but you still can’t help analyzing the kid. <em>What kind of family is he from?</em> <em>Does he have any piercings?</em> <em>Does he smoke? </em>So on and so forth.</p>
<div>
<p>So I watched our pre-season game against Portsmouth with interest but I told myself not to over-analyze the performance. The game itself was not very exciting. Chelsea won the game 1-0, thanks to an own goal by former Chelsea defender Tal Ben Haim. If I am not mistaken, we only had five shots on target in the whole game (2 in first half and 3 in the second half). Four of those shots were by our players and they were all straight at the goalkeeper. The other shot on target was Tal Ben Haim's own goal in the first half. As far as passing and possession are concerned, we did a better job in the second half than we did in the first. One good news that we can take away from this game, and any pre-season game, is that all the players came out of the game without any injuries. [Note: You can read the full match report <a href="http://www.chelseafc.com/page/LatestNews/0,,10268%7E2394386,00.html">here </a>and you can watch the extended highlights <a href="http://www.dailymotion.com/video/xjy73p_portsmouth-v-chelsea_sport">here</a>.]</p>
</div>
<div>
<p>Although we cannot draw any serious conclusions from the game, there are some hints as to what Chelsea is going to look like under Andre Villas-Boas.</p>
<p><strong>The Formation</strong></p>
<p><strong><img style="margin: 5px auto; display: block;" src="/images/blog/1st half team.jpg" alt="" width="519" height="407" /></strong></p>
<div>
<p>As with most pre-season games, Chelsea played a different set of 11 players for each half. But the formation stayed the same for both halves. 4-3-3. Most of us have speculated that 4-3-3 will be Andre Villas-Boas choice of formation since he used the same formation with Porto. It was also the same formation that Jose Mourinho had used while Villas-Boas was an opposition scout under Mourinho. This speculation is proven to be right. The manager also said after the game that 4-3-3 is the only formation that they have been using in training so far*. He also said that the team will be "forwarding on from that into other structures." But seeing that 4-3-3 is the first formation that the team has been trained in, I think it will be our default formation for the coming season.</p>
</div>
<div>
<p><strong>Torres vs Drogba</strong></p>
<p><strong><img style="margin: 5px auto; display: block;" src="/images/blog/Drogba vs Torres.jpg" alt="" width="395" height="198" /></strong></p>
<div>
<p>Seeing that Torres and Drogba played in the same position in different halves, it might be tempting to assume that it is going to be only one place in the team for the two strikers. It's Drogba or Torres, not Drogba and Torres. When asked about this very issue, the manager gave a very diplomatic answer. </p>
</div>
<blockquote>
<p>"I see no problem [with playing Drogba and Torres together]. If players of this dimension cannot play alongside each other then something would be wrong."</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p>"These games are about finding new ideas, new spaces and taking new chances."</p>
</blockquote>
<p>We will have to wait and see if they can indeed play well together but they didn't do a stellar job of playing without one another in this game. Both strikers had a quiet game. Torres had zero shot on target and Drogba had one long range shot that was tame and straight at the keeper. They both got caught in possession on several occasions and looked far from hitting their top forms. However, Torres did (kind of) provided the assist for the bizarre own goal by Tal Ben Haim.</p>
<p><strong>Sturridge's Position</strong></p>
<p>Daniel Sturridge started on the right side of the attacking three. I have written before that <a href="http://carefreechronicles.blogspot.com/2011/06/sturr-ing-pot.html">Sturridge's great form with Bolton came from playing a second striker to a physically dominant Kevin Davies in a 4-4-2 formation</a>. I worried that he might struggle to transition into a wider role in a 4-3-3 formation. From what we have seen in this game, it looks as if he is going to have to play in the wing. He didn't look very comfortable in that position. It was partly due to the fact that he had to play with young Billy Clifford on the right side. But I just don't think we can get the best out of him in that setting. Sturridge did a shot on target from a freekick and had some good passing phases with Zhirkov in the middle.</p>
<p><strong>The Essien Role</strong></p>
<p>Billy Clifford and Yossi Benayoun took turns, Clifford in the first half and Benayoun in the second half, playing in the right sided midfield. I called this The Essien Role. Although Essien played in many different position, I believe the right sided midfield in a 4-3-3 is Essien's best position. Since <a href="http://carefreechronicles.blogspot.com/2011/07/essiens-injury-bad-rumor-of-scott.html">the Ghanaian's knee injury</a>, we needed someone to step into that role or we need to buy a new player to fill the spot. Young Clifford was very shaky in the first half. He struggled to cope with the pressure from strong opponents like Dave Kitson. Benayoun had a good game compared to the rest of the team. His movements and passing were fluid. He connected well with McEachran behind him and Anelka/KalouBenayoun can grow into that position, he is going to be fantastic this season. Again, from the Chelsea manager,</p>
<blockquote>
<p>"Today you saw we adapted Yossi Benayoun's position in the middle, and also against Wycombe he was marvellous in that position (meaning Essien's position)."</p>
</blockquote>
<p>But the Portuguese is keeping his options open.</p>
<blockquote>
<p>"We know what the situation is with Luka Modric, it is public. We also understand the situation the club has taken, so at the moment we are scanning the markets for anything, not just certain players.</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p>But that's one of the positions that we are looking to strengthen. But I reinforce that today you saw Yossi adapting to his position in the middle, so it's just a question of finding a solution. If it happens, it happens".</p>
</blockquote>
<p><strong>The "Fringe" Players</strong></p>
<p><strong><img style="margin: 5px auto; display: block;" src="/images/blog/0,,10268~9510716,00.jpg" alt="" width="385" height="292" /></strong></p>
<p style="margin: 0px;">Zhirkov and Anelka are considered to be the "fringe" players who are most likely to move on to other clubs this summer. As far as this game is concerned, both players had a good game.</p>
<p style="margin: 0px;"> </p>
<p style="margin: 0px;">Zhirkov played in the left sided midfield (where Lampard usually plays) and he was solid. He played well with both Malouda and Sturridge. The Russian was also the creator of most of the attacking chances in the first half. His in-swinging corner from the left was met in the back post by Torres but the Spanish striker couldn't put it on target. Zhirkov created a shooting chance for Sturridge after a couple of slick passes but the young England striker failed to take the shot early. Zhirkov also won a freekick in a dangerous area; Sturridge took the resulting freekick and tested the goalkeeper.</p>
<p style="margin: 0px;"> </p>
<p style="margin: 0px;">We, Chelsea fans, know that Zhirkov hasn't had a decent season since he moved to Chelsea. However, we have to remember that he is a versatile player who can play left back, left midfield and left wing. If he can impress Villas-Boas and finally break into the starting eleven this season, he could be an important asset to the team.</p>
<p style="margin: 0px;"> </p>
<p style="margin: 0px;">Anelka also had a good half against Portsmouth. He was lively both on the left and the right side of the attack. He was very calm on the ball and made a lot of smart runs. He took two shots, both on target but straight at the keeper. Both shots were taken from the left after cutting onto his right.</p>
<p style="margin: 0px;"> </p>
<p style="margin: 0px;">Last week on the BBC World Football Phone-In, European football correspondent Andy Brassell talked about Villas-Boas' 4-3-3 and what kind of "wingers" he liked to use. Brassell said that the likes of Hulk and Valera, the two "wingers" in Porto's 4-3-3 last season, were not out-and-out wingers who hugged the sidelines. According to Brassell, the front 3 in Porto (Falcao, Hulk and Valera) were almost interchangeable and all of them, at one time of another, were able to come into the middle to score goals. Correct me if I am wrong but Anelka can be that kind of player. His natural position is center forward but he can be effective in cutting in to take shots or interchanging position with the central striker to get into the box and be a goal threat.</p>
<p style="margin: 0px;"> </p>
<p style="margin: 0px;">So, I wouldn't rule out the possibility of both Zhirkov and Anelka sticking around for another season if Villas-Boas find them useful one way or the other. As the manager has said again and again, he is still assessing the current squad and giving everyone a chance to prove their worth.</p>
<p style="margin: 0px;"> </p>
<p style="margin: 0px;"><strong>The Clowns Between The Sticks</strong></p>
<p style="margin: 0px;"> </p>
<p style="margin: 0px;">Although you can't judge the outfield players for their pre-season performances, I think that is not the case for goalkeepers. Goalies don't have to adapt to formations and tactics the same way outfield players do. They might still be in holiday mode but their performances, good or bad, during the pre-season is not too far from their real abilities. Since<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><a href="http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11668_7045441,00.html">Petr Cech was out due to a minor injury</a>, Turnbull and Hilario were in goal for each half. Turnbull made some decent saves in the first half but he didn't look very comfortable at all. He made a couple of poor decisions about coming out to get the ball and he flapped at crosses like a chicken trying to execute Kung Fu moves. Hilario showed both sides of his game, the brilliant and the idiotic, in the second half. He brought down a Portmouth player in a one on one situation to give away a penalty but made an excellent diving save for the resulting penalty. Later he got into two messy situation simply because he came off the line too quickly without communicating it to the defenders. These two goalkeepers command as much authority in the box as two kittens in a lion's den. The only relief for Chelsea fans is that the news that<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><a href="http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/14173776.stm">Chelsea has agreed a deal to sign teenage goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois</a><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>came out during the game.</p>
<p style="margin: 0px;"> </p>
<p style="margin: 0px;">*All of the Villas-Boas quotes and comments were taken from <a href="http://www.chelseafc.com/page/LatestNews/0,,10268~2394447,00.html">ChelseaFC.com</a>.</p>
<p style="margin: 0px;"> </p>
<em><br />Carefree, wherever you may be...</em>
<p style="margin: 0px;"><em><br /></em></p>
<p style="margin: 0px;">You can follow me on Twitter<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><a href="http://www.twitter.com/carefreechronic">@CareFreeChronic</a>.</p>
<p style="margin: 0px;">You can read my other posts on <a href="http://www.carefreechronicles.blogspot.com">my blog</a>.</p>
</div>
</div>
</div>
Lamin Oo
2011-07-19T14:50:00Z
A Photographic Journey With the Boys of WFD
Rafa
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/A-Photographic-Journey-With-the-Boys-of-WFD/-938131373810173216.html
2011-07-18T21:47:00Z
2011-07-18T21:47:00Z
So if you weren't following our live tweets from the stadium (I really can't see why wouldn't be monitoring our updates 24 hours a day?), here is a little picture journey of the past week's fun we had with Real Madrd. More to come, for sure, just stayed tuned.<br /><br />Follow all the tweets from the World Football Daily on Twitter <a title="@WFootballDaily" href="http://twitter.com/#!/@WFootballDaily" target="_blank">@WFootballDaily</a>. <br /><br />Follow the host of the show, Kenny Hassan <a title="@KennyWFDLive" href="http://twitter.com/#!/KennyWFDlive" target="_blank">@KennyWFDlive</a>.<br /><br />Follow Sayed on Twitter <a title="@SayedOtaru" href="http://twitter.com/#!/sayedotaru" target="_blank">@SayedOtaru</a>.<br /><br /><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Benzema.jpg" alt="Benzema" /><br />We should probably mention that Real Madird were in town all week here in Los Angeles so the boys of WFD frequently caught up with the team during the week at their two-a-day trainings on the campus of UCLA.<br /><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/SergioRonaldo.jpg" alt="Sergio Ronaldo" /><br />Awwww... how cute, huh? Nothing like a little team bonding between two well groomed footballers. In case you can't tell who's thighs those are, they are Ronaldo's... duh! You can see Kaka on the left feeling a little left out... is that possibly signs of someone for the off??? <br /><br />"Uh-ohhhh" as wee Drake would say.<br /><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/IkerCasillas.jpg" alt="Iker Casillas" width="500" height="334" /><br />Gotta give a bit of love to Iker Casillas who is not only the guaranteed goalkeeper for one of (if not the) biggest clubs on the planet and he's got a smokin' hot babe to go with... Life ain't bad for Spain's number 1.<br /><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/MardidMessi.jpg" alt="Nutter" /><br />This nutter was just some UCLA student who thought he was clever... obviously a sore loser Lionel. Don't worry.<br /><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Xavi1jpg" alt="Xavi" /><br />After practice, there is a Press Conference with players and coaches in the John Wooden Center. Xabi Alonso gets in front of the firing squad here.<br /><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/SayedMaxJames.jpg" alt="" width="500" height="374" /><br />Here we see the boys of World Football Daily in the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum Press Box. Max Patrick was loving life and he got plenty of football on his first trip to the United States. The more interesting thing is Sayed in his designer shades. <br /><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/WFClaPressBox.jpg" alt="" width="499" height="332" /><br />Once again, the boys of World Football Daily in the Press Box at the World Football Challenge match between Real Madrid and Los Angeles Galaxy.<br /><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Beckham01.jpg" alt="" width="502" height="334" /><br />Here we see Beckham posing for the cameras looking stylish as ever.<br /><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Beckham02.jpg" alt="" width="495" height="371" /><br />And Beckham again. The guy is golden in front of the Press. Nicely done Golden Balls.<br /><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/CR9.jpg" alt="" width="500" height="375" /><br />As you could imagine, Cristiano Ronaldo was tough to get to. But we tried.<br /><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Xavi01.jpg" alt="" width="500" height="375" /><br />Xabi Alonso coming out of the locker room post match.<br /><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Pepe01.jpg" alt="" width="500" height="664" /><br />Defender Pepe walking out. As you can see, not much media following this guy.<br /><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/SayedMaxJames01.jpg" alt="" width="500" height="375" /><br />Post match in the middle of the night, the boys of World Football Daily took to the field. I personally swung in a couple brilliant corners for big Sayed to get a head to.<br /><br />You can also subscribe to the free <a title="WFD iTunes Podcast" href="http://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/wfd-premium-complete-show/id431285687" target="_blank">World Football Daily Podcast on iTunes</a>. Just an FYI.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br />
Rafa
2011-07-18T21:47:00Z
Congratulations Japan- World Champions.
Rafa
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Congratulations-Japan--World-Champions./350588580395553880.html
2011-07-18T21:08:00Z
2011-07-18T21:08:00Z
It wasn't like the American's didn't have a chance. Will this result really doom the interest in the Women's games domestically? We'll surely find out. Regardless, the Women's World Cup Tournament was brilliant to watch this summer and a welcomed event for those missing their club season. Fantastic goals, smart play, dramatic matches between epic competitors; all brought to you in HD!<br /><br />But seriously, we want to thank all of those women who competed in that wonderful spectacle this past month. <br /><br />Speaking of women who competed in the Women's World Cup this summer, Karina LeBlanc, Goalkeeper for the Canadian National Team joins the show this Monday to give us an actual players perspective on the Tournament. Make sure to listen or watch!<br /><br />You can actually follow Karina on twitter <a title="@karinaleblanc" href="http://twitter.com/#!/karinaleblanc" target="_blank">@karinaleblanc</a><br /><br />Follow all the tweets from the World Football Daily on Twitter <a title="@WFootballDaily" href="http://twitter.com/#!/@WFootballDaily" target="_blank">@WFootballDaily</a>. <br /><br />Follow the host of the show, Kenny Hassan <a title="@KennyWFDLive" href="http://twitter.com/#!/KennyWFDlive" target="_blank">@KennyWFDlive</a>.<br /><br /><br /><br />
Rafa
2011-07-18T21:08:00Z
La Galaxy 1-4 Real Madrid
Assistant Producer James Cranford
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/La-Galaxy-1-4-Real-Madrid/-572712877167756978.html
2011-07-17T03:12:00Z
2011-07-17T03:12:00Z
Real Madrid came back to LA for the second year on the trot, and again start their pre-season tour playing MLS’ Los Angeles Galaxy. Unlike last year at the Rose Bowl, this year’s game was set at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum in front of 56,211 spectators.<br /><br />The home side Galaxy started in a 4-5-1 with Saunders in goal replacing the injured Donovan Ricketts; Franklin, Berhalter, DeLaGarza, and Dunivant in the back line; Birchall, Juninho, Beckham, Lopez, and Donovan in the middle; Juan Pablo Angel up front on his own.<br /><br />Real Madrid started with Iker Casillas in goal; Pepe, Carvalho, Ramos, and Marcelo in the back; Coentrao, Granero, Khedira, Kaka, and Callejon in the middle of the park; and Martin up front.<br /><br />Real Madrid started brightly and continued the inspired play throughout the first half. Kaka was influential early on, clearly told by Mourinho to play creatively, and set up Marcelo with a through ball after a lovely run through the middle, the shot, however, was high.<br />Kaka was again on the action, as he concluded a lovely run of play by Madrid by passing to Callejon, who’s shot was well saved by Saunders. <br /><br />A cry for a penalty came moments later as Kaka tried to dribble around Landon Donovan, contact was made inside the area but no call came from head referee Jorge Gonzales. The Brazilian looked to have claim for a penalty on that one.<br /><br />Kaka was yet again in on the action, this time as a finisher but his side-footed shot from a Ramos cross went straight into the keepers’ arms. <br /><br />Finally, Madrid were able to make their passing movement count as Coentrao started a passing combination from Kaka, who sent the ball to Callejon who made no mistake and scored the opener for the Merengues. <br /><br />The only spark of life the Galaxy could create, aside from a few passing moves that led to nothing, came from the flashbulbs before a David Beckham free kick that ended up in the wall.<br /><br />Beckham was on the wrong end of the second Madrid goal of the game. He gave the ball away to Martin who then finished for a goal from a deflection off of Beckham’s foot.<br /><br />The half ended with the Galaxy being really disappointing. The only players who made an impact for the Galaxy and kept the half from getting out of hand were Saunders and defender Gregg Berhalter.<br /><br />The second half started with the Galaxy making four changes including Landon Donovan coming off for Hector Jimenez. The Merengues made nine changes at the half, most notably Cristiano Ronaldo entering the field. The only starters to survive the half time break were Jose Maria Callejon and Fabio Coentrao. <br /><br />The Galaxy started much brighter in the second stanza, but it all ended rather quickly with that guy Ronaldo providing the magic. He took the ball in midfield, ran with it, did a couple step overs, shimmied, stepped over the ball again, and from an acute angle beat the Keeper to his upper near post. Absolute beauty of a goal!<br /><br />Madrid were pouring it on the Galaxy, as moments later Coentrao crossed the ball to the back post where Karim Benzema easily headed home for the 4-0 goal. <br /><br />The Galaxy were finally able to keep some pressure up and were rewarded with a goal. Adam Cristman scored from a rebound that bounced off the Keeper straight to his head and he easily deposited the ball into the back of the net. 4-1 Merengues.<br /><br />The match ended with the same scoreline as a few other chances went to waste.
Assistant Producer James Cranford
2011-07-17T03:12:00Z
World Football Daily Live with Real Madrid
Rafa
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/World-Football-Daily-Live-with-Real-Madrid/991011042895339215.html
2011-07-17T02:42:00Z
2011-07-17T02:42:00Z
Ok, so we aren't going live on air with the entire Real Madrid squad, but you can bet your ass that World Foootball Daily is here covering the Spanish giants as they enjoy our Southern Californian home. <br /><br />As Jose Mourinho would say, "Very Nice!"<br /><br />Follow all the tweets from the World Football Daily on Twitter here. <br /><br />Follow the host of the show, Kenny Hassan <a title="@KennyWFDLive" href="http://twitter.com/#!/KennyWFDlive" target="_blank">@KennyWFDlive</a>.<br /><br />Follow Rafa <a title="@GersRafa" href="http://twitter.com/#!/GersRafa" target="_blank">@GersRafa</a>.<br /><br />Follow James Cranford, the Assistant Producer and Audio Engineer <a title="@JamesCWFD" href="http://twitter.com/#!/JamesCWFD" target="_blank">@JamesCWFD</a>.<br /><br />Follow Sayed Otaru, the host of the Goal Africa Podcast who will also be in attendence <a title="@SayedOtaru" href="http://twitter.com/#!/SayedOtaru" target="_blank">@SayedOtaru</a>.<br /><br />Or follow good friend and guest of the show, Italian Commentator <a title="@MaxPatrick" href="http://twitter.com/#!/MaxPatrick" target="_blank">@MaxPatrick</a>.<br /><br /><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/CR9UCLA.jpg" alt="Real Madrid" width="450" height="337" /><br />
Rafa
2011-07-17T02:42:00Z
The fourth may have passed, but Old Glory flying for US women
Sean Marraffini
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/The-fourth-may-have-passed,-but-Old-Glory-flying-for-US-women/879004819548684448.html
2011-07-15T20:00:00Z
2011-07-15T20:00:00Z
<p>All that stands between the US women and history is the team that shocked Germany in the earlier round, Japan.</p>
<p>Looking at the numbers for the tournament, there is not much that separates Japan and the US. They both finished second in their groups, with six points. They both scored six goals, while the US allowed two goals and Japan three. Also both teams needed extra football against their respective opponents to see their way through.</p>
<p>In two pre-tournament friendlies against Japan, the United States defeated them both times, 2-0. There is something of note from both games, at about the same time in both games is when the US scored their first goal. In the first game Abby Wambach scored in the 29<sup>th</sup> minute and in the second game Amy Rodriguez scored her goal 28<sup>th</sup> minute.</p>
<p>So if anything is to be taken from this, it may take most of the first half to break down the Japanese defense, but once they do the game is theirs.</p>
<p>But that would be about where the similarities end. The bottom line is that the United States has everything they need to bring home the title.</p>
<p>The issues that were present with goaltender Hope Solo in 2007 are all but a memory as she has backstopped her team to the final. The offense, in what seems to be typical US fashion is able to find goals at the death knell from brilliant play making from the likes of Carli Lloyd and Abby Wambach.</p>
<p>Out of the six World Cups that the Japanese women have played in, they have gone out at the group stage four times. The US has had considerably more success and that experience will be the x-factor to carry them through.</p>
<p>There also is no doubt that these women are a team. They have clicked at the right moment, that chemistry along with a nation of some 300 million, and countless service men and women around the world, who support them. These ladies are in the right place at the right time.</p>
<p>The fourth may have passed, but leave your flag flying and sit the kids in front of the TV, this Sunday, it should be a moment in US history that no one will want to miss.</p>
Sean Marraffini
2011-07-15T20:00:00Z
Chelsea Lacked Wambach Style Comeback
Lamin Oo
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Chelsea-Lacked-Wambach-Style-Comeback/480545934588427716.html
2011-07-15T15:00:00Z
2011-07-15T15:00:00Z
<div>
<p class="separator"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9mRtNX6ukcg/TiBRWlmbszI/AAAAAAAAAH0/IPZEx6yYs-0/s1600/image-7-for-chelsea-1-1-barcelona-barcelona-through-on-away-goals-gallery-706150099.jpg"></a></p>
<p>Like many football fans around the world, I had my eyes glued to a screen last Sunday, watching one of the most dramatic games in the world – the 2011 Women’s World Cup Quarter Final game between USA and Brazil. The game was jammed packed with all the elements of excitement a football game at a knock out stage can ask for – an own goal, a red card, a penalty, controversial refereeing, an offside goal, a scapegoat player to boo throughout the game, a late equalizer and hard pounding end-of-the-game penalty kicks. This over-two-and-a-half-hour-long episode of football entertainment was so exhilarating that I felt as if I was coming down with a fever when the game was over. But, when the dust finally settled, as my wife often says with a roll of her eyes, ‘everything goes back to Chelsea’.</p>
</div>
<div>
<p>Before I go any further, let me give quick break down of the game for those of you who didn’t get to watch the game. USA took an early lead with a Brazil own goal. In the second half, an American defender was sent off for denying a goal scoring opportunity and Brazil equalized from the resulting penalty. With only 10 players, USA was not only able to hang on to the draw until the end of regular time but they even played better. Brazil took the lead in the first half of extra time but USA somehow managed to get an equalizer during the added minutes of the extra time. USA won the penalty shoot outs and moved on to the semi finals of the tournament.<br /><br /><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/alg_soccer_wambach.jpg" alt="" /> </p>
<p>As someone who sees most things in life, from <a href="http://carefreechronicles.blogspot.com/2011/07/silver-lining-ramires-goal-vs-man-city.html">psychiatry</a> to <a href="http://carefreechronicles.blogspot.com/2011/06/hey-wind-catch-these-cautions.html">politics</a>, through a set of blue tinted lenses, I find myself relating some aspects of this game to the performance of my beloved Chelsea Football Club in 2010-2011 season. More specifically, the way that game between USA and Brazil was won and lost points to some factors that have led to Chelsea's failure to retain the Premier League title.</p>
</div>
<div>
<p>As I see it, USA won the game out of sheer determination and belief that they could get something out of a situation in which most teams would have given up. Brazil, on the other hand, lost the game because they could not turn their possession and technical advantage (and later in the game, a player advantage) into goals. Chelsea lost the title to Manchester United last season because we lacked that edge to grind out results in tough situations and we weren't able to turn our dominant performances into goals that win games.</p>
<p><img src="/images/blog/image-7-for-chelsea-1-1-barcelona-barcelona-through-on-away-goals-gallery-706150099.jpg" alt="" width="262" height="203" /></p>
<p>First of all, Chelsea lacked the kind of determination that USA displayed against Brazil in order to turns things around in adversity. This is not breaking news. Most Chelsea fans probably felt that Chelsea lacked this ability to get it done when the going got tough. That intuition is supported by statistics, which show that although Chelsea was able to win games when they scored first, The Blues found it hard to get a result when the opposition was the first to get on the score sheet. Manchester United, on the other hand, did not let the opponents to score first as many times as Chelsea and when the opponents did score first, the Red Devils were able to get at least something out of it.<br /><br /><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Chelsea vs Utd Goal Scored First.jpg" alt="" /> </p>
<p>Looking at the numbers that describe how Chelsea and Manchester United reacted to first half deficit also tells a similar story. United were able to salvage some decent results after losing at half time, while Chelsea failed to recover from the setbacks.<br /><br /><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Chelsea vs Utd 2nd Half Recovery.jpg" alt="" /> </p>
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<div>
<p>Long gone are the days when <a href="http://soccernet.espn.go.com/report?id=192470&cc=5901">10 men Chelsea team with a goal deficit came back to beat West Ham 4-1</a>. Why Chelsea wasn't able to recover from setbacks the way USA did against Brazil and the way Manchester United did throughout the season is the £25 million question (a bit more expensive than Luka Modric). It could be that Carlo Ancelotti lacked "Plan B" as <a href="http://chelseadaft.org/">Chelsea Daft</a> has often suggested. It could also be the case that Ancelotti had a "Plan B" but the players couldn't carry it out effectively. In the former case, blame falls squarely on the former first team coach but the blame is shared between the coach and the players in the latter scenario. It is possible that Ancelotti, unlike Sir Alex Ferguson (who is famous for his "hair dryer" treatment during half-time), was not able to motivate or get a good reaction out of the players when Chelsea was up against the wall. This is a debate that will continue as long as Chelsea fans are willing to talk about it.</p>
<p>Although we found ourselves not being able to pull out tangible results in tough situations, it would not be fair to say that the team didn't try. I think on many occasions last season, we outplayed the opponent and, yet found ourselves without all three points. <a href="http://soccernet.espn.go.com/match?id=292887&cc=5901">The away game against Birmingham where we lost 1-0</a> came to my mind as quickly as a flashback from a recurring nightmare. Much like the Brazil women's team in the game against USWNT, we dominated that game in St. Andrews Stadium. We had 63% possession. We had 16 corner kicks to their 4. We had 32 goal attempts, of which 9 were on target, while Birmingham had 3 goal attempts and only 1 shot on target, which ended in the back of the Chelsea's net. Examples of this kind of performances are plenty (see, <a href="http://soccernet.espn.go.com/match?id=292841&cc=5901">0-0 draw at Aston Villa</a>, <a href="http://soccernet.espn.go.com/match?id=292953&cc=5901">1-1 draw at Tottenham</a>, <a href="http://soccernet.espn.go.com/match?id=292953&cc=5901">1-1 draw at Newcastle</a>). </p>
<p>If only we were able to fight back like the US team and if only we, unlike the Brazil team, were able to turn dominance into goals, we would have been celebrating the second back-to-back title. Who knows, even Uncle Ancelotti might still be with us today.</p>
<p>This summer's Women's World Cup has been thoroughly entertaining. I have no doubt gotten the WWC fever. But as you can tell, I'm still recovering from the season long cold that is Chelsea FC's performance in 2010-2011 Premier League.</p>
<p><em><br />Carefree, wherever you may be...</em><br /><br />You can follow me on Twitter <a href="http://www.twitter.com/carefreechronic">@CareFreeChronic</a>.</p>
<p>You can also read more posts on <a href="http://www.carefreechronicles.blogspot.com/">my blog</a>.</p>
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Lamin Oo
2011-07-15T15:00:00Z
Menezes backs his forwards to shine
Brazilian coach Mano Menezes has revealed his delight at his attacking players' most recent performance.
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Menezes-backs-his-forwards-to-shine/952053655045207842.html
2011-07-15T09:28:00Z
2011-07-15T09:28:00Z
<p>Brazilian coach Mano Menezes has revealed his delight at his attacking players’ most recent performance, saying that he expects them to continue improving as the 2011 Copa America progresses.</p>
<p>Brazil drew a blank in their first game against Venezuela, before a 2-2 draw with Ecudaor was followed by a thrilling 4-2 victory over Ecuador in their final Group B encounter.</p>
<p>There has been progression in each game with regards to attack performances, with Alexandre Pato and Neymar scoring two goals apiece against Ecuador having failed to find the back of the net in the opening two games.</p>
<p>Referring to his main two strikers, Menezes said: “Attackers can play well and score goals, but they need confidence. We gave our best attacking display against Ecuador, and this has given me more options. I knew it was only a matter of time before the forwards started playing well.”</p>
<p>During what has been a relatively low scoring tournament so far, the men in the famous <a href="http://www.football-shirts.co.uk/brazil-shirt.html">Brazil Copa America Kit</a> are actually leading scorers so far with six goals in their three games. However, Menezes is under no illusions about his side and admits they haven’t been the best side going forward.</p>
<p>The Brazil boss continued: “The figures can deceive us. We have not been the best team so far. Offensively, Chile have been the best. They have had a more defined pattern and possessed a balance over their three matches.”</p>
<p>“Although our training sessions have been based on attacking plays, we have not reached our level yet. However, this will get better with more time and confidence.”</p>
<p>Should this turn out to be the case, Paraguay should perhaps be fearful of Brazil in this weekend’s quarter-final. The two teams meet on Sunday and if Meneze’s comments are anything to go by, it will be an open, attacking and therefore entertaining contest.</p>
<p>The winner of this match will play either Chile or Venezuela in the semi-final and even though Menezes says he will ‘not think that far ahead’ it has to be said that Brazil v Chile would be one of the stand out fixtures of the tournament so far.</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p>: </p>
Brazilian coach Mano Menezes has revealed his delight at his attacking players' most recent performance.
2011-07-15T09:28:00Z
Can Manchester City succeed in the Champions League?
Can Manchester City succeed in the Champions League?
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Can-Manchester-City-succeed-in-the-Champions-League/167812218477035423.html
2011-07-15T08:54:00Z
2011-07-15T08:54:00Z
<p>With Manchester City finally breaking into the Premier League top four, it will be interesting to see how they fair in the Champions League. Their predecessors Tottenham took Europe by storm but do Roberto Mancini’s men have the team spirit and desire to take on the best teams in the world?</p>
<p> </p>
<p>City have been, in the past, criticised for the amount of money they spend on new players and lamented for their lack of team spirit, due to the players egos. Big-money signings are always going to bring different personalities and languages to the dressing room and that may be a burden when City try for European honours.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>However, they did show spirit towards the back end of last season, which ensured European qualification, and now they have the belief they can succeed after their FA Cup triumph.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Mancini, being a foreign manager, will know how to set his team up in Europe and certainly play a defensive formation, looking to counter-attack on the break. City have the players at the club to provide a winning mentality and bring glory nights back to Eastlands.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Pundits over at <a href="http://www.bigfreebet.com/">bigfreebet</a><strong> </strong>will tell you that experience is key but only the Toure brothers have played in the Champions League, with most members of Mancini’s squad set for their first taste of European action. That could be a real stumbling block for City.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>One player Mancini won't have at his disposal in the Champions League is captain Carlos Tevez, who is set to leave the club to move back to South America. Tevez’s goals have been vital and it’s his work-rate that will be sorely missed in Europe. Edin Dzeko will have a huge role to play away from home as his strong build will be needed to bully defenders and hold up the ball in an attempt to set up a City attack.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Vincent Kompany will be a huge player in defence as his organisation, commitment and positive attitude will inspire others as they look to keep out the very best strikers in the business.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>What City have is a strong midfield, which is needed to dominate opposition and take a stranglehold of a game, whether its home or away. City have aggressive players such as Nigel De Jong, Yaya Toure and Gareth Barry who will fight for the cause and try to unsettle foreign players, strutting their stuff on a cold, winters night in Manchester.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>They will protect the back four and allow City’s wingers and attacking prospects the freedom to go forward which is always a winning tactic in the Champions League.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Everyone discussing this issue over at <a href="http://www.bigfreebet.com/">big free bet</a> will agree that Adam Johnson, David Silva and James Milner are all going to be key players if City are to progress and emulate Tottenham’s success.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>City have to be ruthless, enthusiastic and passionate, no matter how many foreign players they have on their books, if they are to silence a few critics and show they are capable of beating the best in Europe.</p>
<p> </p>
Can Manchester City succeed in the Champions League?
2011-07-15T08:54:00Z
US Midfielder, Heather O'Reilly, Joins WFD en Route to Frankfurt
Rafa
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/US-Midfielder,-Heather-OReilly,-Joins-WFD-en-Route-to-Frankfurt/-803826817636917995.html
2011-07-14T17:40:00Z
2011-07-14T17:40:00Z
US Midfielder, Heather O'Reilly joined Kenny in the wee hours of the morning here in Los Angeles after team USA defeated France to reach the Women's World Cup final. Heather talked with Kenny in the wind tunnel that was the team bus and discussed how her team was striving to win this tournament for the third time.<br /><br />She went on to say how amazed she was at all of the support she and her teammates have been receiving from back home (the good 'ol U-S of A). She wanted to give an extra shout out to all who have been following our girls across the pond in Germany. <br /><br />When asked how good this side was compared to the 1999 team, she responded that this 2011 team would beat that 1999 team. Good news, and great encouragement for all fans of team USA that our girls can bring the cup home after their match against Japan on Sunday.<br /><br />All of us here at World Football Daily wish Heather and the rest of the girls the best, and hope they can bring the title home. <br /><br />GO! GO! USA! <br /><br />You can listen to the audio <a title="Heather O'Reilly" href="https://www.worldfootballdaily.com/pg/jsp/charts/audioMaster.jsp?dispid=301&pid=13313" target="_self">interview of Heather O'Reilly</a> as her and the team travel by bus to the Final in Frankfurt on WorldFootballDaily.com.<br /><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/HeatherAndTeam.jpg" alt="Heather and Team" /><br />
Rafa
2011-07-14T17:40:00Z
Congratulations to our US Women's National Team
Rafa
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Congratulations-to-our-US-Womens-National-Team/690024861200001205.html
2011-07-14T01:32:00Z
2011-07-14T01:32:00Z
What can I say. Who knows whether or not soccer will ever get the complete respect it deserves here in this country, but at least when it comes to international competition, Americans are happy to show their support. <br /><br />Of course it helps that our Women's National team are incredibly good and win stuff like Olympic Medals and World Cup trophies and things like that, but I am sure you'll agree that there is something magical about the USWNT and the Women's World Cup in Germany this Summer. If you don't agree, well... go be a pessimistic grouch elsewhere please. <br /><br />I am serious. This summer/off-season has been electric with this tournament. The football being played is brilliant to watch. The goals have been stellar and the matches have almost Hollywood-style story lines. <br /><br />We cannot thank Megan Rapinoe and US Soccer enough for allowing us access into the team as they prepared for France on Tuesday night, and if everything works out, we may be able to bring you more from the ladies of the USWNT before the week is through.<br /><br />Best of luck girls. We send all our love and support to you this Sunday. Kenny and Sophie will surely shed a tear.<br /><br />You can listen to the audio interview of Megan on the show here in the <a title="Daily Recaps" href="/pg/jsp/charts/audioMaster.jsp?dispid=306&pid=13295" target="_self">Daily Recap</a> section of the site. You can also subscribe to the free <a title="WFD iTunes Podcast" href="http://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/wfd-premium-complete-show/id431285687" target="_blank">World Football Daily Podcast on iTunes</a>.<br /><br />And here, you can <a title="WFD Show" href="/v/07.12.2011--WFD-Video/chartID_315/13293.html" target="_self">watch the show</a> where Megan joined Kenny and Sophie the night before their big semi-final clash against a tough French side.<br /><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/uswntfrance.jpg" alt="US v France" /><br />
Rafa
2011-07-14T01:32:00Z
US National Hero Megan Rapinoe Joins WFD
Rafa
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/US-National-Hero-Megan-Rapinoe-Joins-WFD/-970296439606405053.html
2011-07-12T21:03:00Z
2011-07-12T21:03:00Z
Kenny and Sophie are honored to welcome a national hero to the show, Megan Rapinoe of the United States Women's National Team. Megan was the sweet left-footed (self-proclaimed weak-foot) crosser of the ball in the last minute of the US v Brazil match which found the head of Abby Wombach, who in turn scored the equalizing goal to send the match into Penalty Kicks.<br /><br />Midfielder for US Soccer and Philadelphia Independence, Rapinoe is one of the team's best goal scorers and craftiest players, Rapinoe saw the early part of her career stalled by knee injuries, but over the past year or so she has developed into a true scoring threat for the USA. She set up the clinching goal in second leg of the USA's two-game playoff series against Italy to earn a berth to the Women's World Cup and can strike on goal equally well with both feet.<img style="float: right; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/RapinoeWambach.jpg" alt="" /><br /><br />You can listen to the audio interview of Megan on the show here in the <a title="Daily Recaps" href="/pg/jsp/charts/audioMaster.jsp?dispid=306&pid=13295" target="_self">Daily Recap</a> section of the site. You can also subscribe to the free <a title="WFD iTunes Podcast" href="http://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/wfd-premium-complete-show/id431285687" target="_blank">World Football Daily Podcast on iTunes</a>.<br /><br />And here, you can <a title="WFD Show" href="/v/07.12.2011--WFD-Video/chartID_315/13293.html" target="_self">watch the show</a> where Megan joined Kenny and Sophie the night before their big semi-final clash against a tough French side.<br /><br />
Rafa
2011-07-12T21:03:00Z
Juventus Leads the Way
Serie A Weekly/Frank Tigani
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Juventus-Leads-the-Way/-535319447532946688.html
2011-07-09T02:02:00Z
2011-07-09T02:02:00Z
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">The Old Lady does not have much to sing and dance about these days. For the second season in a row the club has missed out on Champions League football after coming seventh, the same position the club finished in the season before last. In the Europa league last season, again the club fell short of expectation after failing to qualify for the knockout stages. As a result of their lack of progress the club relieved Luigi Del Neri of his position as head coach with Juve old boy Antonio Conte the latest to be given the responsibility of leading the club back to success. <br /><br />Amidst all the gloom, however, Juventus have taken one important step forward that, in time, will surely help the club return to the top of the Italian game. Unlike any of her rivals, as of next season Juventus will start the campaign with her own brand new and ultra-modern stadium named the Juventus Arena. <br /><br />AS Roma also have plans to build their own stadium thanks to the funds promised by new owner Thomas Di Benedetto. However, theirs will not be ready for next season thus Juventus, at least in one respect, are again leading the way on the peninsula. <br /><br />The significance of Juventus having their own new stadium cannot be understated. In this year’s Money League Report by Deloitte, it again showed how heavily Italy’s top clubs have relied on revenue from the individual sale of broadcasting rights. In fact, revenue from broadcasting rights as a percentage of total revenue was highest with Italy’s top three clubs, Milan, Inter and Juventus compared to the rest of the clubs in the top twenty of the report. <br /><br />However, this past season was the first time since the 1990’s that the sale of broadcasting rights in the Serie A was sold collectively and not individually. Basically, this means that the top clubs will earn less as the revenue from television rights are distributed more evenly across the division. Consequently, Italian clubs, in particular the top three that rely so heavily on this one source of income, will have to focus their efforts to increase revenue from other sources to offset the inevitable losses from the move from individual bargaining to collective. <br /><br />Aside from commercial sales, match day revenue represents a potentially huge source of revenue. However, this has not been realised by Italian clubs in the past as they have not owned their own stadiums. Instead, they have rented them from local councils and this has greatly undermined the potential they could have earned. <br /><br />But, next season all this will change for Juventus. The Old Lady, with her own new stadium, should see her match day revenue increase significantly. In addition, commercial sales are tipped to increase too as the stadium offers much in the way of entertainment and hospitality. Milan and Inter, meanwhile, will continue to play in the grand yet dilapidated San Siro which they continue to pay to use. <br /><br />It is expected that both Milan and Inter, barring un-paralleled success on the field, will struggle to maintain their current positions in the Money League next year, seventh and ninth respectively. This is because of the change in how broadcasting rights are sold and because neither club earns much in the way in terms of match day revenue. In fact, in this regard both Milan clubs earn less than some clubs not even in the top twenty of the Money League. <br /><br />In May this year Italy suffered a setback as it again failed to secure the hosting rights for the European Championships, this time for the 2016 edition. This followed the embarrassment of the country’s fail bid to host the Championships next year. <br /><br />Yet, for Calcio these failures could prove to be a blessing in disguise. Many Italian clubs, Milan and Inter in particular, had been hoping that if the country could land hosting rights for a major tournament than their stadiums, without any effort of their own, would be redeveloped. But, the redevelopment and much needed modernisation of Italian stadia is not enough. Italian clubs, from a financial perspective, need to own their own stadiums if they are to stay amongst the top clubs in Europe. <br /><br />In football, financial success is greatly linked to on field success. Of all the domestic league titles won in the ‘Big Five’ leagues of Europe, forty three out of a total of fifty in the last ten years have been won by clubs in the top twenty of the Money League. Also in the last ten years, only one club outside the top ten has claimed the Champions League – FC Porto in 2004. Therefore, it would not be enough for Italian stadia to merely be redeveloped. Italian clubs need to start investing in their own stadia and become the owners of them outright. Only this can greatly increase their match day revenue which should become a source of major attention now that broadcasting rights are collectively sold. This simply needs to be done for Italian clubs to maintain and improve their financial positions. <br /><br />Juventus have already taken this step with the development of their own new stadium. Just like prior to Calciopoli when the Old Lady led the way on the field in the Serie A she is once again leading the way but this time in a different manner. However, the financial advantage that she stands to benefit from as of next season could see the Old Lady, before long, again lead the way on the field. <br /><br /><br id="FontBreak" /></span><br /><br /><br />
Serie A Weekly/Frank Tigani
2011-07-09T02:02:00Z
All Quiet on the Blue Side of the Mersey
James W. Hollis
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/All-Quiet-on-the-Blue-Side-of-the-Mersey/-370029659309520832.html
2011-07-08T23:38:00Z
2011-07-08T23:38:00Z
One reason for this lengthy drought is that Everton’s transfer policy last year was predicated on youths, loans and free transfers. Don’t be fooled, this wasn’t some reasoned policy decision about the market being overinflated (United). We didn’t choose to stay out of the market as much as we were priced out or undercut each time we showed interest in a player. <br /><br />That’s one of the problems with David Moyes’ success at picking prospects like Cahill, Arteta, Jagielka and Coleman. Since we don’t have money and other clubs know that, Moyes’s keen eye for young/lower league talent, attracts vultures like ‘arry Redknapp. They stalk Moyes in the transfer market and then offer a higher transfer fee and more wages than we can muster. If you don’t believe me about Harry: see Kyle Walker and Kyle Naughton.<br /><br />Our most recent purchases are John Heitinga, Diniyar Bilyaletdinov and Sylvain Distin in August/September of 2009. These transfers happened because we splashed some of the £23-ish million we extorted from City during the sordid Lescott affair. The year before, we bought Marouane Fellaini for something like £15 million on the final day of the transfer window. The Fellaini money was largely derived from the sale of Andy ‘Penalty Shout’ Johnson to Fulham for nearly £11 million. I think we can be assured that Fulham hasn’t had to pay any of the add-ons for accumulated appearances to date. <br /><br /><img src="/images/blog/Feleini.jpg" alt="" width="247" height="184" /><br /><br />I’d love to say that I’m not going to have a whinge about not having any money but I suspect I will. I’ve been struggling to come up with material to discuss for my first blog post because there has been nothing going on at Everton this summer. What, have we been left out of silly season because Bill Kenwright bounces too many checks? Instead of silly season, Everton fans all over the world have been treated to a summer of mild depression and ever-growing bitterness. Is this the lot that is left for clubs in the Premier League that aren’t financed by fossil fuel money or, in Roman’s case, by price gouging Poland on heating oil every winter. (See how bitter I’m getting.)<br /><br />The normal fare for a summer silly season at Everton sees us linked with stupidly expensive players and everyone gets their hopes up. This particular trend has led me to ignore any transfer rumor involving Everton and any team that has more money than us. (Does that mean all transfer rumors now?). Sadly, Everton fans haven’t even had these fantastical stories to keep us from starving this summer. We’ve made two signings. One is supposedly a 14-year-old Polish goalkeeper. I suspect his family has gotten sick of paying for Fernando Torres’ transfer fee every winter. I don’t even know his name. We’ve also ‘snagged’ Eric Dier on loan from Sporting Lisbon.....for the second season running. <br /><br />In terms of new players, apparently we’re in for Jay Bothroyd on a free! We also showed interest in Charles N’Zogbia until we realized that he wanted to be paid in money. There’s also someone from a club called Derry City who should be a star, and a Northern Irish under-21 international. Those are the extent of Everton’s links this summer.<br /><br />What’s holding up our transfers this summer, apart from Blue Bill’s stunning paucity of coin? We’ve been trying to sell several players, which I suspect is supposed to be funding Moyes’ transfer fund as it has in years gone by. The first of these players is former vice-captain Joseph Yobo who was scripted to exit quietly stage...um...Turkey. As part of the loan deal we had with Fenerbahce that saw Joe exiled for a year in the place where Brazilian careers go to die, if they wanted his ‘services’ on a permanent basis they would have to pay £6 million this summer. Seemingly, after having had Joe for a year, Fenerbahce decided he’s not worth £6 million despite his prominent role in their title run this year.<br /><br />The second hold-up is another Nigerian international. Yakubu spent the end of the season perusing the local ‘crops’ at Leicester City with Sven and was supposed to return there this summer. However, according to reports, his desired wages, to be paid exclusively in gift certificates to Nando’s, have turned Sven off at least temporarily. Yakubu is currently with the team in Austria. Whether he’s there as a player or a food-vacuum is anyone’s guess (as is his actual age). Regardless, Yak’s reportedly a really nice guy that smiles all the time. Sadly, at Everton Football Club, we don’t have time for smiles, there’s no smiling when you don’t have enough money for teeth. <br /><br /><img src="/images/blog/Yakubu.jpg" alt="" width="280" height="209" /><br /><br />Despite the lack of rumors regarding signings at Everton this summer, papers and the internet have been littered with stories linking our best players to other clubs. Baines to City. Baines to Arsenal. Baines to Liverpool. Jagielka to Arsenal. Arteta to somewhere in Spain. Hibbert to Barcelona. Anichebe to Stoke. Rodwell to one of the clubs in/near Manchester. Will any of these deals happen? In a word.....perhaps? <br /><br />I don’t think Leighton Baines will be leaving. He’s our best player. He knocked back a transfer to Bayern Munich in January and signed a new 5-year deal in June 2010. He’s from Liverpool. He looks like a Beatle. He was left out the World Cup squad because he talked about being homesick if he had to stay in South Africa for 2 months (as if the English would ever be at a World Cup for that long). So, unless he’s going to play for that ghastly red team across the park, which would see me rocking in the fetal position for several days, he’s not going anywhere. Hands off Arsene, he’s too old for you anyway.<br /><br />I don’t see Phil Jagielka leaving because Gary Cahill is a better bet for Arsenal. He’s younger, he’s taller, he’s less expensive. Arsenal supporters, if you could all send a message saying that to your manager, we at Everton would be most appreciative. Arteta: I don’t care. He had a terrible season last year. If he plays like that again we should take a stack of cash for him, because a stack of cash could hit the first defender on a set piece every time and wouldn’t be on the highest wages at the club. Hibbert to Barcelona is pretty much a done deal. I expect that to happen this week. I hope Anichebe to Stoke, or anywhere else, happens. I’ve said recently that if Stoke has to pay for Anichebe based on his number of missed chances from last year, then they’ll be paying Messi money. He had more cards (3) than he had goals last year (0). <br /><br />I know that if you’re still reading at this point you’re probably wondering about Jack Rodwell. My opinion on his transfer away hasn’t changed recently. He’s English. One club in Liverpool and one in Manchester have been spending unconscionable sums on underdeveloped English talent this off-season. If a club wants to come buy Jack for more than £20 million, I’ll fly over there and drive him myself. Jack Rodwell is not worth £20 million, nor is Jordan Henderson worth £16 million or Phil Jones worth whatever United paid for him. Not yet at least. <br /><br /><img src="/images/blog/Jack-Rodwell-001.jpg" alt="" width="294" height="177" /><br /><br />As our past few summers have demonstrated, the only way Everton is going to be able to compete in this market is if we make a fortune off of a transfer. If somebody wants to gamble on Rodwell, go ahead, and thanks for the 4 players it’ll buy us. That’s the biggest problem I see with Everton’s lack of money. Not only do we have to penny-pinch on every transfer and risk having wealthier clubs come over the top and steal the players, everyone we’re dealing with knows that we have no money. So, when they try to buy our players, the lowball us. A good example of this is when West Ham last summer offered less for Yakubu later than they did earlier in the summer. As the summer drags on with no transfers, other teams realize that Everton starts to get desperate for any money and lower their offers accordingly.<br /><br />I apologize that this turned out to be so long but there is a growing angst amongst Everton supporters. Two summers ago was bad. Last summer was worse. This summer is almost unbearably painful as we are faced with the impending destruction of everything David Moyes has built at Everton during his tenure. We know it’s coming, and without some billionaire sugar-daddy to rescue us, Everton is coming dangerously close to losing the man many supporters see as the club’s Messiah. Will this summer be the last straw for Moyes? Almost certainly. Without investment I fear for the future of our club. We can’t keep playing in a billionaire’s league with a millionaire’s money and expect a good outcome.<br /><br />Follow me on ‘the Twitter’: www.twitter.com/jwhollis<br /><br /><a href="/”</span"></a><span style="font-size: 11pt; color: #1f497d;"><a href="/”</span"><br /> <br /> <br /><br /></a></span>
James W. Hollis
2011-07-08T23:38:00Z
It's Christmas in July for Red Bulls
Brian Markowitz
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Its-Christmas-in-July-for-Red-Bulls/872912258722684236.html
2011-07-08T20:14:00Z
2011-07-08T20:14:00Z
<p>With all the talk about Christmas and having fun on the pitch from Thierry Henry and Joel Lindpere, it would be understandable to mistake July for December for the Red Bulls. Well, at least for one night it was Christmas in July in Harrison.</p>
<br />With a 1-2-8 skid dating back to May – not to mention the recent 0-1-2 road trip – wearing on players and morale in the locker room dwindling, it was going to take a big effort last night against Toronto in Harrison to get the team back on track. A 5-0 romp should go a long way to ease those concerns ahead of the Atlantic Cup tilt Saturday against DC United. The flurry of highlight-reel goals came from Henry, newly returned Luke Rodgers, Lindpere and a double from impact sub Juan Agudelo. Further, New York regained first place in the Eastern conference with the win.
<p> </p>
<p>The goals were just one of many positive signs to take away from the match for the Red Bulls, who for the first time in more than a month were with a full-strength side (albeit missing center back Rafa Marquez, who was injured in the Gold Cup final and is expected to be out of action for another few weeks). My major takeaways from the game:</p>
<p> </p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Luke-ing good: </strong>Enough can’t be said about Luke Rodgers’ impact on the pitch last night. From the off, the Englishman was hustling, and he looked to be doing his best Juan Agudelo impersonation on his goal. For someone who hasn’t played in nearly a month and had only a handful of practices before the match, Rodgers looked more than up to the challenge. Rodgers’ presence also electrified the rest of the starting XI and Henry in particular. The reunion of the most potent scoring combination in MLS resulted in the first two New York goals, raising the total between Rodgers and Henry to 15, or almost half of the team’s league leading 33 goals.</li>
</ul>
<p> </p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Midfield Maestros:</strong> In only their second game playing together, Dax McCarty and Teemu Tainio looked to be gelling very quickly into a strong central midfield partnership. They’re not Xavi and Iniesta, but Tainio and McCarty shared an excellent understanding and awareness in midfield. They were strong both in <a href="http://www.mlssoccer.com/sites/all/modules/custom/mls_matchcenter/mls-gamematrix/index.php?omi=354190&seasonId=2011&competitionId=98&language=en&tag=1&reiter=g&efltblosd=JnBsYXllcnM9NDE2MjYsNjI3OCZmaWx0ZXJzPTI1LDI3LDI4LDI5LDMx">defense</a> and in distribution, where they completed almost 90% of their passes. Both knew when to attack and when to defend, with the forward-thinking McCarty rarely leaving the team out of balance and Tainio content to sit back, make challenges and start the attack from a deeper position. For a team based on possession, the success of this partnership will go a long way to determining the final outcome of New York’s season.</li>
</ul>
<p> </p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Joel on the Spot: </strong>Reigning MLS player of the week Joel Lindpere continued his torrid form Wednesday, scoring a goal and setting up two more. The goal was his fourth in three games and goes a long way to back up his talk of not enjoying playing anymore with all the draws. Lindpere has been at his best this season when playing on the left wing, overlapping with left back Roy Miller and interchanging with Henry and Rodgers, and that’s where he’s been operating recently.</li>
</ul>
<p> </p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Lockdown D: </strong>For the first time in well over a month, the Red Bulls were able to keep a clean sheet. Although it was against a weakened TFC side, the back line look composed and snuffed out most threats – though tricky Ecuadorean Joao Plata did have a few chances – and ‘keeper Greg Sutton faced few dangerous chances against his old side. Sutton’s play was key, as it has been quite some time since a New York goalie – Bouna Coundoul being the other – has NOT made a mess of at least one routine play. Sutton’s steady hand may have cemented his claim to position, and along with an improving back line will be a key cog to keeping hold of first in the Eastern conference.</li>
</ul>
<p> </p>
<p>Yet Saturday’s matchup against DC will be a much different challenge. Unlike TFC, United actually have forwards and midfielders that can actually pose a threat. The Red Bulls’ defenders have a tendency to spread themselves thin at times (check out MLS’s new <a href="http://www.mlssoccer.com/matchcenter/2011-07-06-new-york-red-bulls-vs-toronto-fc/chalkboard">Opta Chalkboard</a> for heat maps) and that could pose a problem, as DC has quick attackers who like to run at defenders – Charlie Davies and Andy Najar among them.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Further, New York will be without Tainio on Saturday due to yellow card accumulation. This could be in issue if McCarty picks the wrong time to link with the attack, as United could spring forward quickly on a counterattack. Hans Backe has a tough decision to make in deciding who will replace Tainio in midfield. New York has no other natural holding midfielders on the roster, though Mehdi Ballouchy has played there in the past. However, using Ballouchy would be a major gamble, as he is even more offensive minded than McCarty. A more likely option would be to leave McCarty alone at holding midfield, with Ballouchy farther up in a more natural creative midfield role. When New York played at RFK Stadium in April, when New York was not busy putting the ball in the back of the net the game was fought in the midfield. Ben Olson’s men were able to hold New York to much less possession than they are particularly used to, so making the right tactical decision will be essential.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>However, Rodgers, Henry and co. will be attacking a very young United back line. Both center back Ethan White and right back Perry Kitchen are rookies, which could lead to many easy opportunities. <a href="http://www.newyorkredbulls.com/news/2011/07/armchair-analyst-new-york-have-upper-hand-vs-dc">DC is also prone to leaving the midfield vacant, playing into New York's game plan</a>. Lastly, lets be honest: New York is simply a better team and should win, especially with the home support for such a key match. </p>
<p> </p>
<p>After Wednesday night’s match, Jan Gunnar Solli said, “there’s a lot of happy faces. And that’s a good thing.” It might be good for New York, but the rest of the league is on warning: New York Red Bulls are back.</p>
Brian Markowitz
2011-07-08T20:14:00Z
Flo Is No Flop!
Lamin Oo
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Flo-Is-No-Flop!/765026917060744539.html
2011-07-08T14:17:00Z
2011-07-08T14:17:00Z
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<p><a href="http://carefreechronicles.blogspot.com/2011/07/players-meet-new-boss-in-training.html">Chelsea's pre-season training started this week</a> and the players met Andre Villas-Boas for the first time as the manger of Chelsea Football Club. <a href="http://www.chelseafc.com/page/LatestNews/0,,10268~2383589,00.html">Villas-Boas has said that he will think about player transfers only after meeting the current squad members</a>. Now that he is in the process of evaluating the current players, the talk of <a href="http://www.chelseadaft.org/2011/07/players-i-believe-could-be-on-their-way.html">which players are possibly leaving the club is heating up again</a>. <br /><br />According to some of the discussions on Chelsea fan blogs, Anelka, Zhirkov, Benayoun, Kalou, Malouda and Bosingwa are some of the players who are in danger of being shown the exit door at Stamford Bridge.</p>
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<p>While I'm not surprise to see the likes of Zhirkov, Kalou and Bosingwa on that list, I simply can not grasp the reason why Florent Malouda (or "Flo") should be included there. From reading fans' blogs, I notice that Malouda doesn't get much love from the fans for his performance last season. This baffles me because in my book, Malouda had a good season in 2010-2011 and if it weren't for Petr Cech, the French man could have been the player of the season for The Blues. </p>
<p><a href="http://carefreechronicles.blogspot.com/2011/07/players-meet-new-boss-in-training.html"><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Malouda_goal_WestHam_11_ARTICLE.gif" alt="" /></a></p>
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<p>He is the club's top goal scorer with 13 goals. He has 5 assists, which is only second to Drogba's 13. In the league, he played every single game of the season, starting 33 and coming on as a sub on the other 5 occasions. He played a total of 2,809 minutes in the league which is the longest game time by an attacking player in the club; Cech (3,420), Cole (3,387), Terry (2,962) and Ivanovic (2,829) played more minutes than Malouda but they are all in <em>defense</em> (although Ashley Cole can sometimes be counted as an attacking winger).</p>
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<p>Chelsea's number 15 was also the club's most dangerous player of the season in offense with a Shot On Goal percentage of 46.3. He took 82 shots, 38 of which were on target. Drogba is a close second with a SOG percentage of 40.3 (139 shots and 56 on target).<br /><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Top Goal Scorers (2010-2011).jpg" alt="Courtesy of bbc.co.uk/football" /> </p>
<p>In the league <a href="http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_prem/top_scorers/default.stm">Top Scorers Table</a>, Malouda is tied for top midfield goal scorers with Dirk Kuyt and Rafael van der Vaart at 13 goals. But unlike the Chelsea midfielder, Kuyt and van der Vaart both scored penalty goals, 5 goals and 4 goals respectively.</p>
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<p>Perhaps, it will not be easy to make the argument that Malouda was the best midfielder in the Premiere League in 2010-2011, but the fact that<a href="http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/13110874.stm"> the winner of the PFA Player of the Year Award</a>, Gareth Bale, has played fewer games (30), fewer minutes (2451), scored fewer goals (7) and provided fewer assists (1), than Malouda tells us that the Chelsea man's contributions in this past season are not going to be recognized by the mainstream footballing community.</p>
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<p>However, it is not surprising to see Malouda being ranked No. 1 on <a href="http://www.premierleague.com/page/PlayerPerformanceIndex">the EA SPORTS Index Top 100 Ranking in 2010-2011</a>. The EA Sports Index considers important contributions a player has made on the game by considering <a href="http://www.premierleague.com/page/EAIndex/0,,12306,00.html">key factors</a> such as Winning Performance, Player's Performance Per Match, Appearances, Goals Scored, Assists, and Clean Sheets. Of course, it is always hard to measure the REAL contribution of a player but these measures are better than most. In this ranking, the closest midfield competition comes from Kuyt (at 3rd in the ranking and 98 points behind Malouda). Meanwhile, Gareth Bale comes in at 29th (239 points behind Malouda). Perhaps, people are quick to give accolades to footballers based on a few dashing performances but maybe that shouldn't be the case because the statistics tell a different story. More surprising is the fact that Malouda didn't even make it to the <a href="http://strettynews.com/2011/04/pfa-team-of-the-year-2011-containing-four-united-players/">PFA Team of the Year</a> despite outscoring all of the Midfielders on the list (Nani's 9, Bale's 7, Nasri's 10, Wilshere's 1)!!!</p>
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<p>In this past season, Malouda has also shown under-appreciated qualities, the kind that draws scrutiny only in lacking. I'm talking about versatility, fitness, willingness to defend and conduct during the game. Malouda played mainly as the attacking left winger but he also marshaled the left side of midfield during Frank Lampard's absence. He has had no major injuries in this past season and has never been an injury-prone player. He is willing to do his share of defending and tracking back. This is especially important because Ashley Cole is such an attack-minded defender. Finally, Malouda doesn't get carded often; he has one yellow card in the league last season. This means that he is always available for the club (no need to fear suspensions) and that he is not a liability to the team (no need to fear of being red carded).</p>
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<p>It is very telling that fans and the media are suggesting Malouda leave the club only after a trophy-less season. Virtually no one was calling for Malouda to be sold off after the double winning season in 2009-2010. Why? Did his performance drastically go down in the 10-11 season compare to the 09-10 season? If that were the case, it would make sense to consider trading him in for a better option. That, however, is not the case.<br /><br /><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Players Attacking Contribution in 09-10 vs 10-11.jpg" alt="" /> </p>
<p>As you can clearly see from the chart above, Malouda's attacking contribution stayed almost the same over the two season while those of Lampard, Drogba and Anelka dropped off significantly. So why do fans and media think that he should be gone after this season and not the previous one?</p>
<p>One of the criticism of the French man's performance last season is the lack of consistency. I think it is a fair assessment. He started the season scoring goals left and right (7 goals in the first 10 league games). There was a goal drought in the middle of the season (2 goals in the following 20 league games). He finished in decent form (4 goals in the last 8 games). However, he is not the only player in the club that lacked consistency. In fact, most players in the league, aside from Carlo Tevez, did not perform consistently last season. </p>
<p>All things considered, Florent Malouda had a GOOD season if not a great season. What bothers me the most about those who are calling for Malouda to be traded off is that they are so hung up on what they call his "poor performance" last season that they are blind to other factors that might help make their argument. For example, Malouda is 31 years old and his age, in my opinion, can be considered a good reason to exchange him with younger and fresher legs. Regardless, I might still argue that his good fitness level should earn him at least two more years, which practically runs out his contract. </p>
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<div>Recently, the French man has come out and said that <a href="http://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/2896/premier-league/2011/07/04/2559478/florent-malouda-wants-to-remain-at-chelsea-for-at-least">he wants to stay at the club for at least 3 more years and that he has a good relationship with the new manager Andre Villas-Boas</a>. If <a href="http://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/2896/premier-league/2011/06/29/2552838/chelsea-boss-andre-villas-boas-im-the-group-one-not-the">the Group One</a> sees that Malouda is a hard working team player, I bet the Chelsea number 15 is going to stick around with us for awhile. The impression he makes on the manager during the pre-season training is going to be very important for Malouda. And I, for one, am rooting for him and his ever changing hairstyles.</div>
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<div><em>Carefree, wherever you may be...</em></div>
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<p>You can follow me on Twitter (<a href="http://www.twitter.com/carefreechronic">www.twitter.com/carefreechronic</a>).</p>
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<p>You can also read more of my writings on <a href="http://www.carefreechronicles.blogspot.com">my blog</a>. </p>
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Lamin Oo
2011-07-08T14:17:00Z
Max Patrick's First Week in America
Rafa
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Max-Patricks-First-Week-in-America/501637030130404500.html
2011-07-07T04:53:00Z
2011-07-07T04:53:00Z
Italian Commentator Max Patrick has come to America!<br /><br />It's true. He is staying in my house. I know, it's crazy... The same guy who I listen to commentate Serie A matches at the weekend on my couch, is now watching Copa America with me on that same couch! It's quite surreal actually.<br /><br />Max flew in this past Saturday to LAX where I picked him up. The man was quite tired, understandably, and went to bed only to awake to a Huntington Beach house that was starting to fill up. My little brother, cousin and friends had come out for the Fourth of July weekend. On Sunday, Max and the boys went to beach to play some beach soccer and introduce the Italian Football Commentator to the Pacific Ocean. I even taught the man how to properly body surf the California waves.<br /><br />Of course, Monday was the Fourth of July and quite the experience for Max. To see hundreds of thousands of Californians pouring out into the streets and on the beach to celebrate the birth of our nation was quite touching for our guest and it was definitely an experience that we were happy to share with him.<img style="float: right; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/MaxRafaFourth.jpg" alt="" width="144" height="194" /><br /><br />Tuesday was his first taste of guest-hosting the show with Kenny. This show was actually given away for free for all to enjoy and can be found in the <a title="Daily Recaps" href="/pg/jsp/charts/audioMaster.jsp?dispid=306&pid=13173" target="_self">Daily Recap</a> section on the website. There is still much for Max to do, so stay tuned in to World Football Daily to hear all the news. You wont find this type of content on any other podcast or show from the States.<br /><br />You can always catch all the World Football Daily free content through the <a title="WFD iTunes Podcast" href="http://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/wfd-premium-complete-show/id431285687" target="_blank">World Football Daily Sample Podcast</a> on iTunes. <br /><br /><br /><img style="float: left; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/RafaMaxVenice.jpg" alt="" width="254" height="189" /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><img style="float: left; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/MaxStudio01.jpg" alt="" width="153" height="204" /><br /><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/KennyMaxP.jpg" alt="" width="491" height="368" /><br />
Rafa
2011-07-07T04:53:00Z
After Gold Cup victory, de Nigris the right man to join Suazo and lead Rayados back to the promise land
Sean Marraffini
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/After-Gold-Cup-victory,-de-Nigris-the-right-man-to-join-Suazo-and-lead-Rayados-back-to-the-promise-land/-286568488726254593.html
2011-07-02T17:38:00Z
2011-07-02T17:38:00Z
Coming off the heels of the 2011 Gold Cup, where Mexico were far and away the better them, the second highest scoring player on team, Aldo de Nigris could be the right player to help Monterrey land another title. <br /><br />In his time with Rayados and the national side he has proven he can score goals, and at key times. He was the man in 2009 to put his side up against Cruz Azul on aggregate in the playoff finals, which they went on to win. <br /><br />His four goals and leadership were a key part in this year’s Gold Cup only falling three behind super star Hernandez.<br /><br />Aldo fits in well with coach Victor Manuel Vucetich who plays a very offensive style. He likes to put men behind like Suazo and Walter Ayovi behind the ball and go for goal. It was that offensive push that gets de Nigris and Suazo their chances. Which the likes of Suazo made good on with last moment heroics to bring home the Apertura title in 2010. <br /><br /><img src="/images/blog/suazo.jpg" alt="" width="270" height="198" /><br /><br />Also the duo lead the way in scoring on the way to 2010-2011 CONCACAF Champions league title scoring four goals each. They were part of a Monterrey side that was dominating in the group stage winning five of six games. <br /><br />It must also be remembered that both players have special ties to Rayados. With de Nigris being the hometown boy (born in Nuevo Leon, Monterrey) and Suazo having struggled with Real Zaragoza came back to the club where he had success. It would mean both the players wish to see their club succeed. <br /><br />Also de Nigris is only 27 and has plenty of time left to lead his team. Suazo is 30 and with the magnificent football from the past let’s hope there’s enough in the tank to take Rayados for one more title run. <br /><br />With things on the offensive side of ball take care of, Monterrey needs to shore up its defense and be ready for the fall. This could be done by possibly adding the likes of Rafael Marquez from the New York Red Bulls. Who could also add experience, to fill the void left by the retiring Jesus Arellano. Marquez would join fellow Mexico teammate Ricardo Osorio and lead a youthful backline. <br /><br />With the Copa America about to get underway Suazo will gain even more experience playing on a grand strange. That coupled with the summer time performance of de Nigris, the two should bring positive energy and more experience to a team that with some tweaks can compete for a title. <br /><br /><br />
Sean Marraffini
2011-07-02T17:38:00Z
DC United Again This Week!
Rafa
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/DC-United-Again-This-Week!/-101060855026490773.html
2011-07-02T01:59:00Z
2011-07-02T01:59:00Z
Today we had a special interview with a long time friend of the show (and listener). Alex Caulfield is the Press Officer from DC United and he gave us an insiders perspective on what it takes to do his job. We also get some really good stories from the guy who gets to do what he loves for a living.<br /> <br /> I mean really, who could complain about working in the game of football when you are embedded with a club like he is.<br /> <br /> You can listen to this interview for free in our <a title="Daily Recaps" href="/pg/jsp/charts/audioMaster.jsp?dispid=306&pid=13173" target="_self">Daily Recap</a> section on the website.<br /><br />You can always catch all the World Football Daily free content through the <a title="WFD iTunes Podcast" href="http://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/wfd-premium-complete-show/id431285687" target="_blank">World Football Daily Sample Podcast</a> on iTunes. <br /><br /><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/OnFieldDC.jpg" alt="" width="470" height="268" /><br />
Rafa
2011-07-02T01:59:00Z
Hey Wind, Catch These Cautions!
Lamin Oo
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Hey-Wind,-Catch-These-Cautions!/-102594483355720335.html
2011-06-30T14:59:00Z
2011-06-30T14:59:00Z
<div>It has only been a little over three years. Yet the optimism and the enthusiasm that have totally engulfed the United States with the inauguration of Barack Obama into the oval office seem like some distant memories. His speeches have moved us. His promises have made us hopeful. But with the economy in the tank, with U.S. soldiers still on foreign soil, and with Washington still as divided as the Red Sea under Moses’ command, we are forcefully dragged back into the reality that Obama, after all, is a human being, not a deity; a politician, not a philosopher.<br /><br /><img src="/images/blog/Villas-Boas-Hope.jpg" alt="" width="228" height="298" /><br /> <br />With that cautionary experience in mind, I am starting to wonder if we, Chelsea fans, might be falling prey to the same phenomenon with Andre Villas-Boas.</div>
<br />Since the young Portuguese man has been named the new manager of Chelsea Football Club, there has been a generous outflow of excitement and optimism about the prospect of this signing both from the press and the fans.<br />
<div> <br />This, in some parts, is justified. After a trophy-less season and the sacking of Carlo Ancelotti who is like the Italian uncle we all secretly want at the Christmas dinner, this is the first time Chelsea fans can hope again and look forward to the new season with a genuine sense of anticipation. The media also enjoys Villas-Boas’ incredible back story, the potential they see in him and the fact that he has given them something to write about during the silly season. In strictly business term, Villas-Boas is a very marketable material -- photogenic, young, hot and intelligent. </div>
<div><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/3752-andre-villas-boas-manager-chelsea-23443.jpg" alt="" /><br />Plus, the man is making all the right moves (whether <a href="http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/13957547.stm">it is assigning Roberto Di Matteo as Assistant Coach</a> or <a href="http://www.chelseafc.com/page/LatestNews/0,,10268~2382514,00.html">canceling pre-season match that comes too soon</a>) and saying all the right thing (<a href="http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/13955095.stm">whether it is the promise of attacking football or the focus on the group rather than him as the individual</a>). It is hard not to like him.<br /><br /> While there are some who have adopted a ‘we’ll wait and see’ attitude, others have gone totally overboard. Some say that he is <a href="http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/13846140.stm">Jose Mourinho 2.0</a>. Others say he will be <a href="http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/13878066.stm">even better than The Special One</a>. More still predict that <a href="http://bleacherreport.com/articles/743045-chelsea-fc-why-andre-villas-boas-can-take-blues-to-champions-league-title">he is going to win the Champions League for Chelsea</a>. We have just bought the ticket and some of us (both media and the fans) are acting like we have won the big jackpot.</div>
<div><br />We all know that football is played on the pitch and at the end of the day, the results of the games are going to determine if this signing was a success or not. Meanwhile, there are real issues and questions surrounding Villas-Boas that we are not pursuing hard enough because we are being swept away by an incredible wave of excitement and optimism. Some of these issues have been briefly addressed but never seriously considered. But I'm sure that if Chelsea season starts to go pear shape, everyone from all corners of the world will come out to make these points.<br /><br />So, I'm going to state these points briefly here hoping that we can have a better and more informed debate instead of falling head over heel before Villas-Boas has even managed a game for Chelsea.<br /><br />(1) He has only managed club football for less than 2 seasons. Sure he has been around football all his life but being the manager who has to make all the big decisions is in a different level. Some argue that being a scout for Jose Mourinho has prepared him for the job. However, it does not guarantee that it will translate into managerial success. You may be observing and writing reports on the enemies but it is the general who makes the final call, the battle plan.<br /><br />(2) Primeira Liga is definitely a quality league but it is by no means as strong as the Barclay's Premier League. Villas-Boas' league success with Porto may or may not replicated with Chelsea in the Premier League.<br /><br />(3) Kind of along the same line with the second point is that Europa League is inferior to the Champions League in both status and the strength of the competition that you have to face. Last year, FC Porto won the Europa League under Villas-Boas by beating these teams: Sevilla, CSKA Moscow, Spartak Moscow, Villarreal, and Braga. These are strong teams but not in the same level as Real Madrid, Manchester United, Barcelona or Inter Milan. Some of us have easily accepted that his success in Europa League is going to translate smoothly into success in the Champions League that we have not even looked at what other Europa League winning managers have done. Juande Ramos, Dick Advocaat, Mircea Lucescu, and Quique Sanchez Flores are the managers that won the previous five Europa League titles (Ramos won twice) before Villas-Boas and they have not exactly ruled the world of European football since then. Juande Ramos, for example, has given a great opportunity to shine at Real Madrid, just like Villas-Boas at Chelsea, but he didn't turn out too well either.<br /><br />(4) Even though we are currently mesmerized by his youth, if he fails to win anything with Chelsea, his age is going to be pointed out by football writers and fans as possible cause of the failure. Some will say that he is not able to establish his leadership role among players who are around his age.<br /><br />These are some of the points that we should be taking more seriously. However, this does not mean that I do not support our manager or that I do not like him. I, like any fan, LOVE him already and wish him the best but we must be cautious in our optimism. I'm sure he will succeed with Chelsea. Even if he turns out to be a bust, we have a solid team and an owner who is willing to anything for the club. After all, even Avram Grant took us to the Champions League finals, didn't he?<br /><br />But we must not get so far ahead of ourselves. All I'm saying is that we should wait and see if the man is going to bomb any country or not before we award a Nobel Peace Prize.</div>
<br /><em>Carefree, wherever you may be...<br /><br /></em>You can read more posts about Chesea FC on <a href="http://www.carefreechronicles.blogspot.com">my blog</a>. <br />You can follow me on twitter at <a href="http://www.twitter.com/carefreechronic">www.twitter.com/carefreechronic</a>.
Lamin Oo
2011-06-30T14:59:00Z
What Argentina learned from its three international friendlies
Steven Gomez
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/What-Argentina-learned-from-its-three-international-friendlies/-415865747338202375.html
2011-06-30T05:42:00Z
2011-06-30T05:42:00Z
<p>Nothing.</p>
<p>What happens when an international powerhouse plays a very good African team with their B team? They get hammered (loss to Nigeria 4-1). What happens when that same B team plays a mediocre international team? Either a draw or a slim loss (loss to Poland 2-1). What happens when that strong international team plays a pathetic European squad with their A team? They demolish them (win against Albania 4-0). </p>
<p>All very predictable results. Some may defend Batista’s choice in squad selection for these matches as looking to select his bench for the Copa America. But why play them with no starters on the field? How are you to measure their chemistry with the players you know will be on the field if none of them are present? Thanks Batista, we were all just reminded why second tier players are second tier players… and another thanks for the 10<sup>th</sup> place FIFA ranking you just earned us.</p>
<p>Tongue-in-cheek aside, there were two small surprises in these few games. Pablo Zabaleta’s performance with the B team was shocking. Where was the Pablo we saw this past season at Manchester City? He, and the rest of his defensive line, allowed 6 goals in 2 games. Those aren’t the stats of someone with designs on taking over Javier Zanetti’s position.</p>
<p>The other surprise was more pleasant. Ever Banega’s link up with Messi in the Albania game was on point. The way they pass to each other when setting up an attack is very reminiscent of Messi working with his club puppet master, Xavi.</p>
<p><img src="/images/blog/batista.jpeg" alt="" /></p>
<p>Batista’s first team defense was not tested in the Albania game. Zanetti, Burdisso, Milito and Rojo were left twiddling their thumbs for 90 minutes thanks to the offensive pressure. Under normal circumstances, I would say this may be his best possible choice for a back line given the options. However, we have a situation where Argentina’s captain just came off a club season where he displayed his remarkable versatility while helping secure a UEFA Champions League title. Burdisso and Milito are pathetic. Why not replace one of the two with Mascherano? There are several other talented options to fill in for him in midfield. </p>
<p>Tomorrow Argentina opens the tournament against Bolivia. Los Albiceleste will be looking to avenge their 6-1 loss to them under Maradona. However, this time Bolivia will not have the altitude advantage they had in La Paz. A loss to one of the weakest teams in the tournament on home soil will see Batista crucified.</p>
<p><img src="/images/blog/Argentina-bolivia.jpeg" alt="" /></p>
<p>Let the games begin.</p>
Steven Gomez
2011-06-30T05:42:00Z
Big Ben Olsen Joins WFD
Rafa
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Big-Ben-Olsen-Joins-WFD/268139313624600171.html
2011-06-29T21:44:00Z
2011-06-29T21:44:00Z
Today we had on an old friend of the show, Ben Olsen from DC United. We actually we lucky enough to have been when they made him the "interim manager" last year thanks to our friends at DC United. But this year he starts with a clean slate and after going from an iconic player to legendary manager, Ben still has a lot of pressure on his shoulders to get his club to perform this season.<br /><br />Kenny and Robert ask all the tough questions that put Coach Ben on the spot a little bit. For example, you should hear what the DC United Boss had to say about how Referees in the MLS have been helping to bring about the enormous amounts of draws in this season. For the entire interview, go to our <a title="Daily Recaps" href="/pg/jsp/charts/audioMaster.jsp?dispid=306&pid=13135" target="_self">Daily Recap</a> page and hear it for yourself. <br /><br />On Friday, we bring on the Press Officer for DC United, Alex Caulfield, who will give us a little insight in to life as an employee of an MLS club. Have you ever wanted to get involved in the game? Well wait until you hear this story of how Alex landed his gig. Tune in on Friday at 1pm ET.<br /><br />You can always catch all the World Football Daily free content through the <a title="WFD iTunes Podcast" href="http://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/wfd-premium-complete-show/id431285687" target="_blank">World Football Daily Sample Podcast</a> on iTunes. <br /><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/BenOlsenSS.jpg" alt="" /><br />
Rafa
2011-06-29T21:44:00Z
Welcome to New York, Dax McCarty
Brian Markowitz
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Welcome-to-New-York,-Dax-McCarty/794651578068284855.html
2011-06-28T04:20:00Z
2011-06-28T04:20:00Z
<p>Well, I was planning on writing a review of the last week for the New York Red Bulls, but bigger news has pushed that to the side. In a move that until further notice can only be called head scratching from a Red Bulls perspective, the team has traded midfield playmaker Dwayne De Rosario in a straight swap for DC United’s Dax McCarty.</p>
<p> I can’t even begin to wrap my head around this trade. De Rosario finally seemed to be settling in nicely to the team, scoring the equalizer against Portland last week and also having his hand in other goals. De Rosario was tied for the team lead in assists with four, and with Thierry Henry and Luke Rodgers both having suffered ailments throughout the season, would have effortlessly slotted into a forward role. Further, the Red Bulls fared much better with De Rosario in the fold: in the 13 games with De Rosario the team scored 23 goals; without him they scored only 4.</p>
<p>Early reactions are that United won the trade outright. De Rosario will add a lot to an extremely young squad and will help propel the team into the playoffs, while McCarty will join an already established New York midfield, but should still see minutes playing either behind the strikers or in a more defensive role. McCarty is an all-action type player and could make an impact in many ways. The other question surrounding this trade is the cumulative price New York paid to get McCarty. In effect, the trade amounts to McCarty for Tony Tchani, Danleigh Borman and a first round pick in next year’s draft. While DC General Manager Dave Kasper says "NY wanted him [McCarty] moving forward” and Erik Soler has made similar comments, the price paid is steep.</p>
<p>Why trade a player who’s had such a big impact impact for New York? A few reasons immediately come to mind. First, De Ro and Thierry Henry never really formed the potent relationship Soler and Hans Backe had in mind. De Rosario is truly a forward, and forcing him into a new position may have blunted the offensive threat he provided at times. Henry also prefers to be a drifting player who makes plays up field and takes defenders on, something else De Rosario likes to do. It’s possible (though not entirely plausible), that Backe decided that although De Rosario was a nice piece, he was an expendable piece. And at 33 years old, even players of De Rosario’s quality suffer a dip in form eventually. Bringing in McCarty will give Backe a solid option at defensive midfield, where Finn Teemu Tainio – himself 31 years old – has carried some lingering injuries this season.</p>
<p>The other, more plausible reasons are purely financial. In the final year of his contract, De Rosario made it known that he wanted to get paid Designated Player money. Toronto FC was unwilling to do so and instead opted for a youth movement and New York was also apparently unwilling to do so. De Rosario was owed close to $500,000 this year, while McCarty is due less than half of that. Furthermore, letting go of De Rosario frees up an international player spot and considerable money for the bulls to make a run at some overseas veteran looking to end their career at Red Bull Arena. With needs at goalkeeper (the Bouna/Sutton platoon just isn’t cutting it – could a play at Marcus Hahnemann be on the cards?) and in midfield (Mehdi Ballouchy has never been the creative spark envisioned), this move could, and likely will, be nothing more than a precursor of bigger things to come. However, only time will tell.</p>
Brian Markowitz
2011-06-28T04:20:00Z
On the Wrong Side of History: River Plate Relegated
Scott Byington
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/On-the-Wrong-Side-of-History:-River-Plate-Relegated/-490536007512157848.html
2011-06-28T04:01:00Z
2011-06-28T04:01:00Z
As the streets outside Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires pick up from what looks nothing short of a war zone, the devastating fact remains: River Plate, Argentina’s most successful club, is relegated. After losing 3-1 in an aggregate playoff match against relative minnows, Belgrano, River Plate will be starting their next campaign in the Nacional B. This is the first relegation suffered in River’s illustrious 110-year history, having spent 102 consecutive years in the Primera A and winning the league a record thirty-three times.<br /><br />Before going further into what brought about River’s unthinkable relegation, it must be said that no matter how saddening it is to see a historic club relegated, an outpouring of violence is never an appropriate response. The scenes following the game were pure chaos as hysterical fans tore up stadium seating, fences and anything they could get their hands on. Players and media alike had to be huddled in the middle of the pitch to avoid debris and flying bottles. As police fired water canons and tear gas into the crowd, the rioting moved outside the Monumental where cars were set alight and further clashes with authorities played out well into the night. Whether orchestrated by River’s barra brava or born from fan despair, this violence is shameful and puts an unfortunate stain on Argentine football just days before the Copa kicks off in the country.<br /><br />Now to the football. Only the disillusioned will say they did not see this coming. Despite this campaign’s respectable showings in both the Apertura (2010) and Clausura (2011), River has been found wanting over the past three years. This cumulative struggle left a young squad fighting against the three-year points-averaging system, and that pressure was clearly too much. They collected a mere three points from their final seven regular season matches, and therefore, found themselves facing the playoff. <br /><br />River’s greatest weakness has been their inability to score. As demonstrated in their two games against Belgrano, the attacking front of Mariano Pavone and Leandro Caruso have averaged a meager solitary goal per 105 minutes. With the creative impetus placed almost entirely on Erik Lamela, it is no wonder River have struggled to find the back of the net. Lamela is an undoubted prodigy, but still too young to shoulder an entire club’s attacking prowess. Perhaps the Nacional B will prove an appropriate arena to refine the attacking talents of some the younger River players?<br /><br />This may prove to be the silver lining to relegation. As a young team, the Nacional B might be the right environment for these boys to gain confidence should they taste the success of a winning season. There will certainly be departures of the big names. Malaga-bound Diego Buonanotte has already put pen-to-paper. Lamela will almost certainly move on with a host of European clubs already casting covetous glances. Short term signees Juan Pablo Carrizo and Pavone will not be renewing their links to the club. So this will leave ample room for the young starlets to lead River back to the Primera. Keep in mind, this is the club whose famed academy produced icons such as Di Stéfano and Sívori. Do not be surprised to see the likes of Manuel Lanzini, Daniel Villalva and the aforementioned Funes Mori come of age in the second tier.<br /><br />However, this silver lining may prove to be insignificant should the club fail to overcome the financial ramifications of relegation. River’s massive debt is no secret and the hugely reduced TV earnings of the second division will cause further complications. River earned $25 million pesos a season in the Primera, but they’ll be lucky to scrape together $3 million next season. Match-day revenue will also drop. Who is going to pay Primera prices to watch Nacional B football? These financial woes will have to be carefully navigated by River’s board, which unfortunately, has done little to inspire confidence as of late. <br /><br />So as both the literal and historic dust continues to settle outside El Monumental, it’s difficult to discern the future of one of Argentina’s most prestigious clubs. On one hand, relegation might prove to be just what the club needs to revamp and redefine itself. Or, on the other side, it may be the beginning of the proverbial end. Yet regardless of what’s to come, the truth of the day is that history will forever reflect 26 June, 2011 as the day River Plate’s century-long run in the Primera came to a crashing halt.<br />
Scott Byington
2011-06-28T04:01:00Z
Gold Cup 2011: WFD Style
Rafa
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Gold-Cup-2011:-WFD-Style/-986891101675013841.html
2011-06-27T21:32:00Z
2011-06-27T21:32:00Z
Yes, of course we are bummed that the United States lost the Gold Cup Final (well, I don't know about Kenny), but the neutral must have watch this game smiling like a kid with the up and down action on the field, strong attacks from both side, brilliant goals and lots of them! <br /><br />I guess what I'm trying to tell the American supporters is this: "buck up!"<br /><br />It was a great game. You should be happy you made it to the finals after a weak overall tournament performance. AND MEXICO WERE THE BETTER TEAM!<br /><br />Moving on...<br /><br /><img style="float: left; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/RafaAlex.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" />So it was quite the event for us WFD boys (Casey, Kenny and my self. James was an idiot and forget to sign up for credentials before the deadline, but no worries... he's beating himself up for it). Both Friday and Saturday was good fun and quite the experience. On top of players and coaches to interview, we ended up getting to meet several of the guests we have on the show regularly, putting faces to voices finally. For example, here is Alex Labidou and myself chatting about future world domination while our national team trained. Nothing major really.<br /><br />On Friday, we actually headed up to the Rose Bowl to watch the team train and catch a couple players for pre-match interviews. We spoke to several of the boys and it was really great to look at the squad and note that only a select few have yet to join WFD in some capacity: whether on the show in a phone interview or in the locker rooms after an MLS match. <br /><br />So when I saw Mo Edu leaving the field and hollered, "hey Mo, whattup!"<br /><br />Mo came back at me with a handshake, a smile, and a "whattup man!"<br /><br />Quite the cool feeling. But it was really the same for Ale, Clint and several others, so big thanks goes out to the USMNT and US Soccer for being so gracious with their time for us.<br /><br />Although I must say, one of the best things about Friday wasn't the national team. Oh no. It was Ines Sainz from TV Azteca. Wow. She's pretty much everything they say she is and more. I almost got lost looking for her on Saturday, but on Friday we became good friends.<img style="float: right; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/InesSainz01.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="327" /><br /><br />Ok, so good friends is a bit much. But both her crew and ours were working side by side for much of the day and when we were waiting for players to come down the mix zone, we chatted for about a minutes forty-five seconds. True statement. <br /><br />Actually, it was quite funny to see my fellow journalist and media personnel starring and even asking for photos with her. She was always more than happy to pose with each requester and I was "this close" (you can't see me pinching my fingers really close together) to asking for a photo with my iPhone myself, but then Casey talked me back. Probably a smart idea from my colleague there. Good one Casey.<br /><br />Saturday was long. How long you ask? Well, we met up around 1, only to return home around twelve hours later, not to the chagrin of our women waiting for us. "But all in a days work honey."<br /><br /><img style="float: left; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/CaseyGC02.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="334" />Isn't Casey such a believable camera guy? <br /><br />Well, I think so. And actually, Casey is the Video Producer for World Football Daily and every video you watch on WorldFootballDaily.com is a product of his labor. Although, not everyone believes him when he says he's a professional, but that's a tale for the Behind the Glass Podcast perhaps.<br /><br />Here is Casey chilling in the South end of the Rose Bowl just behind the net. Not a bad seat, especially when Michael Bradley opens the scoring directly in front you.<br /><br />(story behind the photo: papa hassan gets so welled up with emotion about seeing his little laddies grow up right before his eyes, he feels it necessary to document every minute of this match with photos taken on his iPhone to later be sent to rafa, clogging up his inbox. no worries kenny, i forgive you.<br /><br />The game itself was a "cracker" as Kenny surely must have said in show today. But it's true. Quite a game for the neutral. And if you were a well education supporter of the game, whether you were American or not, you have to admit that there was some incredibly entertaining football on display that evening. (Will the rest of America be open to it??? Probably not.)<br /><br /><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/RoseBowlGC02.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="450" /><br /><br />There is the view from the press box. I was sitting about two seats to the left of Leander Schaerlaeckens of ESPN and Jonah Freedman of MLSsoccer.com.<br /><br /><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/RafaGC02.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="450" /><br /><br />Above is some of the free swag that CONCACAF gave away to the media in the Press Box towards then end of the game. Others were saying that this didn't happen in Houston or the other venues. HA HA! (that's rude, I know)<br /><br />What's that really sweet website on the screen there? Oh yea, that's right. Only the best damn football online community ever! <br /><br />Below you see Casey and Kenny posing on the pitch while the match is being played. No, we are not tourists in Old Trafford.<br /><br /><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/CaseyKennyGC01.jpg" alt="" /><br /><br />Don't these two look adorable. Hard at work obviously. This photo was taken by Stuart Holden who was supposed to be on his set taping a segment right at this moment but he told his producer how important Kenny and Casey were so they let him get away with it.<br /><br />Below is Casey and Kenny wallowing in depression after the US loss at Lucky Baldwin's after the match.<br /><br /><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/CaseyKennyGC02.jpg" alt="" /><br /><br />Here is a Mexican Marching band leading a group of fans up to the stadium. They started way back where we were parked which meant the guys with the big ass drums and instruments had to carry them and play them for over nearly a mile across the golf course.<br /><br /><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/MexicanMarchingLine.jpg" alt="" width="395" height="296" /><br /><br />And last but certainly not least... I wanted to leave you with yet another picture of the beautiful Ines Sainz who must have liked the way we all smelled because she stayed so close to us. (ok, not really, but clever joke... ha, ha, yes?)<br /><br />Make sure to send in your Gold Cup memories... or lack thereof, to show@worldfootballdaily.com or download the free <a title="WFD iTunes Podcast" href="http://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/wfd-premium-complete-show/id431285687" target="_blank">World Football Daily Sample Podcast</a> from iTunes for free! <img style="float: right; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/InesSainz02.jpg" alt="" width="400" height="447" /><br />
Rafa
2011-06-27T21:32:00Z
Inter's Disarray Signals end of Post Calciopoli Era
Serie A Weekly - Frank Tigani
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Inters-Disarray-Signals-end-of-Post-Calciopoli-Era/858508749556419578.html
2011-06-27T14:40:00Z
2011-06-27T14:40:00Z
It is hard to believe that just over a year ago Inter Milan stormed their way to European success in Madrid’s Santiago Bernabeu after defeating Bayern Munich. Back then the Nerazzurri were led by the ‘Special One’, Jose Mourinho, now of Real Madrid. Those halcyon days of European success coupled with domestic domination seem a long time ago now for Massimo Moratti’s beloved Inter. <br /><br />Since Mourinho departed Inter have struggled to reassert themselves in a new mold. This is largely thanks to the horror performance of Rafa Benitez, the man who took over after Mourinho was lured to the Spanish capital. His successor, Leonardo, did a much better job despite suspicions about his capacity as a coach. However, the Brazilian’s small success, if one labels his time at the club in such a way, was completely undone last week when he shockingly announced his resignation. This was one summer move that no one guessed. <br /><br />Inter are now in disarray. The lack of world class options to take over from Leonardo are few. This past week the club suffered the humiliation of Marcelo Bielsa’s rejection to head to the north of Italy, instead favoring a move to Athletic Bilbao. In addition, there are continuing rumors that many of the team’s top players, in particular Wesley Scneijder and Samuel Eto'o, could follow the Brazilian out the same door. Now doubt, the chaos that Leonardo has left the club will not help in keeping their star players at the San Siro. <br /><br />The Nerazzurri’s predicament signals the end of the post Calciopoli era and a possible permanent shift in the balance of power. <br /><br />Last term Milan re-established themselves with their Scudetto triumph. Though Inter’s demise under Benitez in the first half of the season greatly aided their success, the Rossoneri’s Serie A success is perhaps a sign of things to come. <br /><br />Milan are in a great position to build on their success of last season as the club is expected to keep hold of all their key men while adding a few extras this summer. Juventus are poised to make yet another attempt to reclaim former glories by adding to their squad, though the Old Lady has lost much of her appeal of yesteryear. <br /><br />In addition to Milan, most significantly, Roma are greatly threatening to become a force on the peninsula. The club was recently taken over by American business tycoon Thomas Di Benedetto and a big summer transfer campaign is expected. Luis Enrique has been brought in from Barcelona B as the Giallorossi aim to become something akin to the Italian version of the real Barcelona. <br /><br />In the post Calciopoli era, Inter cruised to four consecutive Scudetti, five if one includes the one taken from Juventus and given to Inter. Three Coppa Italia triumphs were also secured while, as mentioned, the club became European champions last year. <br /><br />But, Inter’s fortunes have greatly faded since their treble success and it seems a tough road back to the top. Currently without a coach and with few quality options available, the horizon is not a great one for the blue half of Milan. <br /><br />The post Calciopoli era was characterized by the almost complete lack of competition to contest Inter for Italy’s major honors. The Nerazzurri were by far and away the strongest side. But, this is no longer the case. The Nerazzurri will remain a strong contender in Italy and maybe even in Europe next term. Yet, the club will have to fight hard to prove so and this is something that was not required of them for much of their post Calciopoli successes. The post-Calciopoli era has come to an end. <br /><br /><br />You can read more from Frank Tigani on the pages of <a title="Italian Serie A News" href="http://www.serieaweekly.com/">SerieAWeekly.com</a> and <a href="http://twitter.com/Franky_T" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.serieaweekly.com/images/followmeontwitter.gif" border="0" alt="twitter link" width="160" height="27" /></a><br />
Serie A Weekly - Frank Tigani
2011-06-27T14:40:00Z
Chicharito: The True Nine
Matthew Switalski
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Chicharito:-The-True-Nine/659698882428428902.html
2011-06-24T18:00:00Z
2011-06-24T18:00:00Z
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<p class="Body" style="padding-top: 0pt;">The dominant player of this moment is Lionel Messi and the dominant team is Barcelona. Beyond the tiki-taka and the magnificent possession football, we are told that Barcelona and Messi have taken the game to another level tactically by the use of Messi as a “false nine”. Barca play with no striker, therefore the likes of Vidic and Ferdinand have no one to mark. Messi, the nominal striker, goes where he pleases, left, right, back to midfield. This is nothing that Cruyff and DiStefano did not do in years past, but as a tactic it is sweeping all before it with magnificent beauty and when watching it one can feel like there is no other way to play.</p>
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<p class="Body"><span class="style">But there is.</span> One of the greatest things about football is that there is more than one way to play. And when the concept of “the false nine” seemed to be rendering “the true nine” obsolete, one man in particular has shown that there is still much to recommend an old fashioned striker. That man is the little pea, Javier Hernandez. <span class="style_1">Chicharito.</span></p>
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<p class="Body">Hernandez does not have every tool in his arsenal. His pace is average at best. His shot is not particularly powerful. Tracking back? Not really his thing. Strength? He looks like Charlie Atlas next to Drogba. The next defender he beats off the dribble will be his first. He’s not selfish, but with his relative lack of gifts, you wouldn’t expect him to be. He really only does one thing. He scores goals. 7 in 5 games in this Gold Cup. More specifically, he scores them in the six yard box, at most, from ten yards. None of them are worthy of a YouTube clip. They are a modern equivalent of Gerd Muller’s famed “little goals”. A perfect example is his goal against Honduras in the Gold cup semifinal to put El Tri 2-0 to the good. It seems simple, but try it at home without handling it or taking too much time to get your feet set, a la Dempsey v Guadeloupe. Instead, Chicharito just groined it in, and he looked like he could do it every time.</p>
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<p class="Body">Hernandez is only 23, so to compare him too strongly to Muller is reckless. <span class="style">Der Bomber</span> is arguably the greatest pure goal scorer ever. But there’s another name that comes to mind. Gary Lineker. Another guy who didn’t seem to do a whole lot out there. He would just show up in the six yard box and score once or twice every 90 minutes to win the game. Think of Lineker’s World Cup goal v West Germany in Turin or Muller’s against the Dutch in the 74 final. In those moments, when everyone else on the field is off-balance, and the ball is just laying there, these supreme predators are in their element.</p>
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<p class="Body">Now, the greatest football genius of the last 40 years is probably Johan Cruyff. On and off the field. It is his philosophy of play that personified the Total Football of the 1970’s and the modern version that is Barcelona. To Cruyff, a footballer must be a polymath; he has no time for specialists. Accordingly, when Cruyff took the reins at Barcelona, he moved Lineker from striker to the right wing. Only a true genius could do something that stupid. A player like Lineker had no place in Cruyff’s ideology, though interestingly he later made peace with another archetype of the breed, Romario.</p>
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<p class="Body">And that’s o.k. Because by running Lineker out, Cruyff created his Dream Team, Barca’s greatest era prior to the current one. But there will always be a place for a Muller, a Lineker, a Romario. They decide games. They don’t need chances. In the right moment, they only need a half-chance. In those moments, someone like Chicharito is nonpareil. As beautiful in his own way as any of Barca’s passing. And on Saturday night in Pasadena, in the greatest current international rivalry in world football, the US will have to overcome this truest of nines to win the Gold Cup.</p>
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<p class="paragraph_style_1" style="padding-bottom: 0pt;">Matthew Switalski is a 16th circuit judge in Macomb County, MI, USA and is the managing editor of <a title="http://www.worldsoccerusa.com" href="http://www.worldsoccerusa.com/">www.worldsoccerusa.com</a>. Matt attended 8 Gold Cup matches in Charlotte, Chicago, East Rutherford and Washington, D.C., and is writing a memoir of his journey to South Africa for the 2010 World Cup, to be published later this year. He is a WFD premium member.</p>
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Matthew Switalski
2011-06-24T18:00:00Z
Villas-Boas And The Challenge Ahead
Lamin Oo
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Villas-Boas-And-The-Challenge-Ahead/130809478604505433.html
2011-06-24T15:38:00Z
2011-06-24T15:38:00Z
<img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px auto; display: block;" src="/images/blog/Andre-Villas-Boas-007.jpg" alt="" />
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<p>Since the end of the Jose Mourinho era, there have been too many managers going in and out of the doors at Stamford Bridge. There has been a lack of continuity. A trophy-less season and the sacking of well-liked and well-respected Carlo Ancelotti has brought too much negativity and uncertainty to those around Chelsea Football Club.</p>
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<p> Now, with the signing of Andre Villas-Boas as the new manager, there seems to be a genuine sense of excitement and positivity around the Chelsea camp. How can you not be excited? The man looks like he could be the next James Bond <em>and</em> he has a hyphenated last name. Actually, a James Bond role might not be too alien to Villas-Boas. After all, he successfully led the Opponent Observation Department, a “spy team” that compiled secret service-style dossiers on rivals, under Jose Mourinho. But I digress.</p>
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<p>Like any other Chelsea fan, with the somewhat surprising signing of AVB (can we call him that?), I have been spending the past few days reading up on the man. (<a href="http://www.level3football.com/royhendo/article/andre_villas_boas_how_would_he_fare_at_chelsea">Here</a> and <a href="http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-2006735/Andre-Villas-Boas-How-got-Chelsea-job-33.html">here </a>are some of the informative articles on AVB). And like most fans, I'm really intrigued by AVB's story up to this point. Making such a good impression on Bobby Robson as a teenager and being offered a place in Porto's youth coaching staff. Getting the UEFA C licence at the age of 17. Becoming the Director of Football at the British Virgin Islands before he could legally drink alcohol. Playing a vital role under Jose Mourinho. And finally becoming the youngest manager to win a European trophy with Porto in 2010-2011. It definitely has a Hollywood ring to his story (I say Christian Bale can definitely play AVB, don't you think?)</p>
<p><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px auto; display: block;" src="/images/blog/christian-bale-assault21.jpg" alt="" width="292" height="221" /></p>
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<td>Christian Bale as Villas-Boas?</td>
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<p>Again, I digress. Before we get swept away by the man's background story (like I have), it may be helpful to look at the reality of the situation.</p>
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<p> First consider who we passed (or who passed us). Guus Hiddink. A proven man at Chelsea. A personal friend and a trusted man of Roman Abramovich. We were sure for awhile that Hiddink was going to come back to coach Chelsea for the second term. This was welcome news for most Chelsea fans, including me. Under Hiddink, Chelsea won 15 out of the 21 games, drawing 5 and losing only one. At the time, most people would have agreed that the greatest achievement of Hiddink at Chelsea was winning the FA Cup by beating Everton in the final. But now that we see how dominant Barcelona is in Europe, there might be an argument to be made that the Dutch man's greatest achievement at Chelsea was not losing to Barcelona after playing 180 minutes (Sir Alex Ferguson, last year, would have loved to have stayed level with the Spanish giant after 90 or even 120 minutes). There are also a lot of rumors that Guus Hiddink was the first choice by Roman Abramovich and it certainly has looked that way in the beginning of the summer. </p>
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<p> But my own feeling is that AVB was the man Abramovich wanted in the first place because of the price he paid for the services of the Portuguese. Chelsea had to pay around 13.3 million pounds solely for the release of AVB from the contract with Porto. That is a lot of money to be splashing on an up and coming manager who is supposedly "the fall back option" from Guus Hiddink. But more importantly, the price we have paid for AVB tells us again about the reality at Chelsea. While other clubs stock up on players with talents and abilities, we gather managers with proven record or great potentials. If you count all the major trophies the managers appointed by Abramovich have won through out their career, you will be astounded. 8 major domestic league titles, 4 Champions League titles, and a FIFA World Cup title. And a whole lot of money has been paid to work their magic at the club. Now, it is Villas-Boas turn to prove his worth.</p>
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<p> So, what does he need to do to prove his worth? Well, I can't really say anything new about that. Since his appointment has been made official, everybody is quick to give a little piece of advice to AVB the way opinionated relatives are with regards to a pregnant teen. <span><a href="http://goal.com/">Goal.com</a></span> says these are the <a href="http://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/2896/premier-league/2011/06/22/2542870/the-top-five-things-on-andre-villas-boass-to-do-list-as-he-takes-">5 things AVB needs to do</a>. <span><a href="http://www.chelseadaft.org/">ChelseaDaft </a></span>has his own version of <a href="http://www.chelseadaft.org/2011/06/villas-boas-five-things-he-must-do.html">5 things AVB must to do</a>. Sounds to me like sports writers have unofficially agree that 5 is the number of suggestions that readers (and AVB) can handle in an article or a blog post. While they make valid and interesting points, they fail to make the obvious (but important) point. That is, there is only ONE thing AVB needs to do. Win! And not just win but win quick.</p>
<p> He needs to win at least something (even if it is just FA Cup or Carling Cup) in his first season. Former Chelsea star Pat Nevin says that <a href="http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/13875661.stm">we must give time to AVB</a> in order to make his own mark at the club. It is a wonderful sentiment and I'm sure most of us feel the same way. But we must also face reality. And the reality is that Chelsea (by Chelsea, I mean Roman Abramovich) does not give time. Former Chelsea manager Avram Grant has come out and said that <a href="http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/13887405.stm">AVB must achieve immediate success</a>. He is right and we all know that he is right. History tells us that no manager, under Roman Abramovich, has lasted longer than a season without winning something at the club.</p>
<p> Some say that this creates a toxic environment – a pressurized atmosphere where the relentless insistence on immediate gratification hinders the growth of the club (and the manager). Others see this as a challenge – an opportunity to prove oneself and be noticed in the highest level of football. AVB definitely sees it as a challenge:</p>
<blockquote>"There is no doubt that the challenge for me is to keep winning. I am an individual who has the hunger for success and I want to keep it that way."</blockquote>
<p>So what does that challenge looks like next year? While the task at the domestic front looks feasible, the challenge at the European front seems daunting.</p>
<p><img style="margin: 5px auto; display: block;" src="/images/blog/Manchester+United+v+Chelsea+Premier+League+0jPHoxCYRdQl.jpg" alt="" width="514" height="408" /></p>
<p>Let’s take the domestic front first. The champions Manchester United are rebuilding again. With the addition of <a href="http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/13882802.stm">Ashley Young</a> and <a href="http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/13754461.stm">Phil Jones</a>, United already has a better squad than last year. They will again be the one to contend with for the title. On the other side of Manchester, City has been rather quiet in the transfer market (but I’m sure they will make up for it later down the line). They have already made it into the top four, so a meaningful challenge for the title may sounds reasonable. But I think they will have a bit more on their hands with the Champions League. Possible challenger? Yes. Any real chance? No.</p>
<p>It is rather early in the transfer window to say that Arsenal is going to be the same toothless team that they were last year. Maybe a contender but it will depend on the signings they make in the summer. Outside of the top four, Liverpool has the best chance to taking a crack at the title. Their late surge last season under Kenny Dalglish has been impressive and they are also rebuilding – adding the likes of young Jordan Henderson to their squad. But I think their objective, first and foremost, is to finish in the top four and the title might be way too ambitious for them. Plus, has any team gone on the win the title after finishing 6<sup>th</sup> in the year before?</p>
<p>So, as of now, I only see Manchester United as the only “real” title challenger that will give Chelsea a tough fight. But the league title is a very real possibility. After all, the way I see it, Manchester United didn’t win the title last year. Chelsea lost it.</p>
<p><img style="margin: 5px auto; display: block;" src="/images/blog/barcelona-v-chelsea-pic-getty-560355690.jpg" alt="" /></p>
<p>Champions League, though, is going to be a tough assignment for AVB (as it would be for any manager). The current champions Barcelona simply look undefeatable at the moment and they are already looking to expand their collection of playing talents by <a href="http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/929139/barcelona-win-race-to-sign-alexis-sanchez?cc=5901">signing Alexis Sanchez</a>. Sure Champions League is a knock out competition and anyone can beat anyone in an off game but that's a given. If we count that in for every game, there will be no point in making any predictions. Of course, there is also the wounded animal that is Real Madrid (and Jose Mourinho). If Mourinho's record at Inter Milan is anything to go by, The Special One will make sure that his team succeeds in Europe in his second year. There is also the likes of AC Milan who looks to be a tough side again under Massimiliano Allegri and they will no doubt make a strong case in the Champions League. Our domestic rival Manchester United, without a question, will also be a threat in Europe.</p>
<p>These European giants aren't the only one standing in our way of grabbing that trophy with the big ears. Unless you forget, we are Chelsea FC. We, for one reason or another, do not do well in Europe. Sometimes it is our performance and most times it is our dumb luck, but Chelsea's record in Europe is tragic enough to give most fans Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.</p>
<p>So, that is the challenge that is put in front of AVB. It is a tough assignment for any manager, let alone a young manager like AVB. In my opinion, it will be very hard for us to win the Champions League this coming season (<a href="http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/13904815.stm">despite some saying that AVB will conquer Europe</a>). However, I think we can definitely win the league and that should be enough to keep AVB at the club for at least another year to take a good crack at the Champions League. But this is football -- anything that can happen has happened and will happen. </p>
<p>As a fan, I'm going to hope for the best (and by that I don't mean AVB hanging on to his healthy patch of hair on his head by the end of the season). So, here's to a year of success for Chelsea and our new manager!</p>
<p>Cheers!</p>
<p><em>Carefree, wherever you may be...</em></p>
<p>You can read more more me on my blog (www.carefreechronicles.blogspot.com) and follow me on Twitter (<a href="http://www.twitter.com/carefreechronic">www.twitter.com/carefreechronic</a>). </p>
</div>
Lamin Oo
2011-06-24T15:38:00Z
GB or not GB?
Sandy Thin
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/GB-or-not-GB/-948362447511577167.html
2011-06-23T18:44:00Z
2011-06-23T18:44:00Z
<p><strong>Sandy Thin</strong></p>
<p>With just over a year until the Olympics arrive in London, the football associations of Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland are not taken with the idea of joining forces with England to make a 'Team GB'. The British Olympic Association and the English FA have reached an agreement on the team and while it's not necessary for the BOA to have the support of each individual FA, the process would be made much easier with the willing participation of the Scots, Welsh and Irish.</p>
<p>Britain have not entered a team for the Olympics since 1972 but the fact that they are coming to London in 2012 puts pressure on Britain to enter every possible event to maximise chance of medals. The fans and FAs in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland are generally opposed to the English FA running the team and the inevitable fact that, ignoring several notable exceptions, the vast majority of the squad would be made up of English players.</p>
<p>A factor that many journalists seem to be forgetting when putting forward their "Possible GB XIs" is that all bar three players in the squad must be Under 23 players. With no outstanding young British goalkeepers it is likely that one of the 'Overs' would be a keeper, most probably either Joe Hart or Craig Gordon, largely dependent on their performances next season. The remaining two 'Over' places are debatable, it is hard to predict with another season of football before the decision must be made but for the moment you would have to say that Rooney would be a safe bet, along with maybe a Charlie Adam or Ryan Giggs or if Northen Irish places were struggling to be filled, potentially Stven Davis or even Paddy McCourt.</p>
<p>As for the rest of the team; the defence is hard to call although Micah Richards, Chris Smalling and Phil Jones are all fairly likely inclusions, possibly alongside Kyle Walker. The midfield is slightly easier to predict as Gareth Bale and Jack Wilshere are both near certs for the team, with other spaces being taken by two out of Jordan Henderson, Aaron Ramsey, Jamie Forrest or Charlie Adam. Assuming that Rooney is included then he is likely to be alongside his England team-mate, Andy Carrol.</p>
<p>Even if all of these things fall into place for the BOA, Team GB will have a very tough time progressing very far in the tournament. Several players in the squad will have already played in the European Championships in Poland and Ukraine only the month before, straight after grueling club seasons without breaks and will inevitably be tired before the tournament even begins. They will also have to compete with what promise to be strong sides from Brazil, Spain and Argentina along with others. Brazil in particular will take the competition very seriously as it remains the only competition they are eligible for and have failed to win, despite entering strong sides in the last few games running up to 2012, their side will likely include great players such as Neymar and Pato.</p>
Sandy Thin
2011-06-23T18:44:00Z
In Defense Of Bob Bradley
Matthew Switalski
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/In-Defense-Of-Bob-Bradley/785026187693583526.html
2011-06-23T15:38:00Z
2011-06-23T15:38:00Z
<p class="Body" style="padding-top: 0pt;">At the risk of destroying my credibility with all American readers, I want to come out in defense of Bob Bradley. He’s a good coach. He’s doing a good job. The criticisms of his regime and his work are almost completely without merit. And he’s probably going to win the Gold Cup. Over Mexico. Again. Before you denounce me as a fool, consider the following:</p>
<p class="Body"> </p>
<p class="paragraph_style">He’s Picking The Right Team..........<span class="style">We are constantly being told that Bradley won’t pick the right players, but when you actually engage in the argument, there’s no there there. I had a guy screaming at me after the Guadaloupe game that Bradley is horrible and won’t pick the right players. O.K., I said, but who are these players? Who should Bradley be selecting, but is keeping out of the team? You know what the answer was? “Well, you can’t tell me that in a nation of 310 million, we shouldn’t be producing more latin and black players who are good with the ball.” I agree, but what the hell does that have to do with Bradley? A selection controversy is Argentina choosing between Tevez, Messi, Higuain and Aguero, when only 2 of them will play. It’s Italy back in the day, choosing between Totti, Del Piero and Baggio. It’s Brazil every 4 years. Pay attention: there is no pool of world class players that Bradley is ignoring. He’s picking the best guys. None of them went to La Masia. That’s not his fault.<br /></span></p>
<p class="paragraph_style"><span class="style"><br /></span></p>
<p class="paragraph_style">The Critics Have No Shame...........<span class="style">When Bradley makes a decision, he has to live with the results. His critics have a better deal. They can demand something, and then when Bradley adopts their idea and it doesn’t work, that’s not a repudiation of their analysis. Bradley’s still a bad coach, and they are on to the next suggestion. Remember the Jose Francisco Torres bandwagon prior to the 2010 World Cup? I do. I was on it. Well, Bradley gave the crowd what they wanted, and started Torres against Slovenia. I was at Ellis Park watching it. It was a disaster. Anybody admit they were wrong? No, they just move to the next critique. Recently, it’s been all about Tim Ream, seen as the future at center back. Bradley started him the first two games of this tournament. I like Ream, and I bet he’s a starter in 2014, but he was killing us against Canada and Panama. Now I’m hearing that he should be playing Freddy Adu. Seriously? 2 weeks ago I was hearing what a joke it was that Bradley picked him for the squad. From the same people!<br /></span></p>
<p class="paragraph_style"><span class="style"><br /></span></p>
<p class="paragraph_style">Just Win Baby................<span class="style">As Leander Schlaeckens noted on World Football Daily last week, this current US squad peaked at the World Cup in 2010. He’s right, except I think they may have peaked in 2009, at the Confederations Cup. And that’s o.k. But Bradley must try to win this tournament prior to turning the team over in preparation for 2014. Sunil Gulati, US Soccer and the fan base all demand a Gold Cup victory, preferably over Mexico. They also want the team to play better soccer and get younger. All in good time. We’re between cycles right now. Bradley is actually being very pragmatic about this. The next wave is not quite ready. The veterans give us the best chance of winning this tournament. And this tournament is the only thing that has mattered since South Africa, not a meaningless Spain friendly. Imagine what they’d be saying about Bradley if he’d played Donovan in the Spain match and he was injured. After this tournament, there will be no competitive matches for the US until August 2012 when the initial pre Hexagonal World Cup qualifiers begin. By that time you could see a starting XI like this: Howard, Lichaj, Ream, Gonzalez, Chandler, Edu, Bradley, Holden, Diskelruud, Dempsey and Altidore. With Donovan, Agudelo, Jones, Shea, Bocanegra, Bedoya and Goodson in reserve. That’s a brand new back four and a very nice age balance. Actually, we could be better in 2014 than in 2010.<br /></span></p>
<p class="paragraph_style"><span class="style"><br /></span></p>
<p class="paragraph_style"><span class="style">Believe me, I get frustrated when I see us lose to Paraguay and get owned by Brazil and Spain. But Brazil and Spain are better than us. I wish Rossi and Subotic had chosen us, but Chandler and Jones did and we’ll win a big one in the next couple years. I’ve attended 8 Gold Cup matches, in Charlotte, Chicago, East Rutherford and Washington, D.C. Mexico is playing fluid, attacking, possession soccer. We look clumsy by comparison. But we actually remind me of a typical German team post 1990 and pre 2006. Not particularly attractive, not real likable......but in the semifinal again, and most likely the final. And if you think Mexico is going to look that good, that fast, that cultured against us in a final, you’re crazy. The US and Mexico will always be a great game for many reasons, among them the contrast in styles. We will not be as open as Cuba, El Salvador and Costa Rica were, and Guatemala had El Tri very frustrated for 50 minutes on Saturday. And I would rather have our semifinal then Mexico’s. Honduras are no mugs. In any event, if Bradley wins the Gold Cup with this team, he’ll add that to a resume that reads won the 2007 Gold Cup, lost the final of the 2009 Confederations Cup, won the Hexagonal, won our World Cup group over England, and lost the knockout game in extra time. If that’s failure, I’ll have some more please.<br /></span></p>
<p class="paragraph_style"><span class="style"><br /></span></p>
<p class="paragraph_style"><span class="style"><br /></span></p>
<p class="paragraph_style">Matthew Switalski is a 16th circuit judge in Macomb County, MI, USA and is a WFD premium member. He is the Managing Editor of <a title="http://www.worldsoccerusa.com" href="http://www.worldsoccerusa.com/">www.worldsoccerusa.com</a>. <span class="style"><br /></span></p>
Matthew Switalski
2011-06-23T15:38:00Z
Hahnemann heading to Seattle?
Rafa
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Hahnemann-heading-to-Seattle/-8007420191819363.html
2011-06-21T22:51:00Z
2011-06-21T22:51:00Z
We had a fantastic day today. A big thanks goes out the US Soccer for allowing us to speak with <a title="Marcus Hahnemann Interview" href="https://www.worldfootballdaily.com/pg/jsp/charts/audioMaster.jsp?dispid=301&pid=12993" target="_self">Marucs Hahnemann</a> ahead of their match against Panama tomorrow.<br /><br />Confidence is high in the US Camp in Houston and the Americans are really looking forward to make up for the loss Panama handed them earlier in the tournament. The loss to Panama in the group stages was the only loss the US has experiences at that stage of the Gold Cup. <br /><br />Either way, look for a different American team compared to the one who showed up last time to face Panama. <br /><br />It's not unknown that Marcus is currently without a club. We also know the American keeper has plenty of quality play left in both hands and feet and Kenny asked the question "what's next for Marcus" and the keeper answered honestly.<img style="float: right; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Marcus02.jpg" alt="Marcus Hahnemann" width="281" height="141" /><br /><br />"Keller is retiring and I'd love to be back in Seattle" said Hahnemann.<br /><br /><em>Funny you mention that Mark because we just so happened to be interviewing the head coach for the Seattle Sounders about an hour after we get off the phone with you!</em><br /><br />So when we heard this from Marcus, of course we had thought to put it to Coach Sigi Schmid. Guest-host Robert was going to interview the head coach of the Sounders as Premium Content for our subscribers. <a title="Sigi Interview" href="https://www.worldfootballdaily.com/pg/jsp/charts/audioMaster.jsp?dispid=301&pid=13005" target="_self">Listen to the Sigi Schmid interview here.</a><br /><br />"For us (Seattle Sounders FC) it's a great fit," Sigi told us in the interview. "We'd love to have him."<br /><br /><img style="float: left; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Sigi01.jpg" alt="Sigi Schmid" width="224" height="233" />Of course thing are a bit more complicated than that and you get the entire explanation in the interview, but if Sigi and Marcus had it their way, Hahnemann would be a Sounder again next year.<br /><br />To hear the Sigi Schmid interview for free, you can find it in the <a title="Daily Recaps" href="https://www.worldfootballdaily.com/pg/jsp/charts/audioMaster.jsp?dispid=306&pid=13009" target="_self">Daily Recap</a> section of WorldFootballDaily.com or you can download the <a title="WFD iTunes Podcast" href="http://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/wfd-premium-complete-show/id431285687" target="_blank">free World Football Daily Sample Podcast on iTunes</a>!<br />
Rafa
2011-06-21T22:51:00Z
Trying Weeks Set to End for New York Red Bulls - for now
Brian Markowitz
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Trying-Weeks-Set-to-End-for-New-York-Red-Bulls---for-now/146851602664692858.html
2011-06-21T14:56:00Z
2011-06-21T14:56:00Z
<p>Red Bull nation can exhale now. Sunday night’s match against Portland marked the end of a tough stretch for New York, yet marked the beginning of another. The match, which ended in a 3-3 draw,<strong> </strong>was significant in many ways.<strong> </strong>While the team welcomed back playmaker Dwayne de Rosario to the starting XI, the first of five key players set to return throughout the next two weeks from the CONCACAF Gold Cup, they lost Thierry Henry on a questionable red card for arguing with Portland’s Adam Moffat– after all, as the always-colorful Shep Messing said, “no one pays to see the referee.” The point gained also gave New York the slenderest of leads at the top of the Eastern Conference table over Philadelphia. </p>
<p> Going into Sunday’s match with confidence from a win over rivals New England, New York welcomed back De Rosario with open arms. For much of the last month, the Red Bulls’ match day 18 featured bit players and reserves – at one point listing only three on the bench – so having a player of De Rosario’s quality is immense. De Rosario’s impact was felt early and often, as he was involved in the lead-up to Austin da Luz’s fifth minute opener and coolly slotted home a penalty kick in the dying moments of the match.</p>
<p> The win against the Revolution was the first since April 30 against a Sporting Kansas City side that was in the middle of a 10-game road trip to start the season. Since the SKC win, the Bulls have endured a dire stretch which saw the offense sputter and gain only 9 of 27 possible points. Although they are on a six-game unbeaten streak, New York has looked far from the imperious side they were in early April.</p>
<p> Hans Backe will have at least Dane Richards for next Thursday’s match at Seattle, the second of the team’s four-game stretch until July 2, which also includes tough matches against Chicago and San Jose. By the end of the trip, Rafa Marquez, Tim Ream and Juan Agudelo will all be back, to the delight of Backe and fans alike. Yet in the mean time, Henry will be missing in action for at least the run-in at Qwest Field, meaning Dane Richards could be forced up front to pair with De Rosario.</p>
<p> On the pitch Sunday, there were both positives and negatives to take into the next stretch. Encouraging were the performances of De Rosario and rookie da Luz, who consistently put in the effort, even in the second half when Portland dominated play. Henry was also influential, especially with his long pass to De Rosario to start the sequence leading up to the first goal and his own goal. New York played with intensity in the first half, something lacking in previous weeks. That play, which culminated in the early goal, silenced the raucous Jeld-Wen field crowd and will be important for Thursday’s clash. New York also showed a feistiness late, which allowed them to even be in place to come back.</p>
<p> However, the lackadaisical play to start the second half will be distressing for Backe. The Red Bulls lax play for the first 25 minutes of the second half allowed Portland to get back into it, and fans must have had déjà vu, thinking they were watching clips from previous matches – or maybe even last season’s first round playoff second leg match against San Jose. Defense against set pieces was also shocking, with the first goal coming off a free kick and Jack Jewsbury always looking threating.</p>
<p> At the end of the day, the point will have been encouraging, and fans will be happy to see the Gold Cup coming to an end, even if the end did come prematurely for De Rosario and the Canucks. Yet there is still plenty of work left to be done if the Red Bulls are to stay in first place for the remainder of the season.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><em>Questions/Comments? Find Brian on twitter, @brianm1090.</em></p>
Brian Markowitz
2011-06-21T14:56:00Z
First Milan, Now Inter Leonardo Packs It In
Serie A Weekly - Frank Tigani
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/First-Milan,-Now-Inter-Leonardo-Packs-It-In/526005031930508607.html
2011-06-20T16:02:00Z
2011-06-20T16:02:00Z
<br />How quickly things change in football. Two years ago Milan had arguably the club’s weakest squad of players of the Berlusconi era. Now, the team are the reigning Italian league champions. Despite their old and poor squad of the 2009-10 season, Milan still managed to come third in the league, at one point even threatening to seriously challenge for the Scudetto. <br /><br />All this took many Milanisti by surprise as many of them feared the worst. Perhaps the team would not qualify for the 2010-2011 Champions League edition, or worse, fail to qualify for Europe altogether. In the end, however, Champions League football was assured relatively easy. <br /><br />The most remarkable thing about Milan’s 2009-10 campaign, however, was that at what was a critical time, the club took a chance by appointing Leonardo as head coach. The Brazilian had no previous experience at the time and only took on the appointment after much persuading by Andrea Galliani. It was a gamble of sorts and it paid off. <br /><br />Leonardo rejuvenated Inter these last 6 months, much like he did with Milan, as he built an attractive and attacking team with Ronaldinho as the talisman. Some good results were garnered too. Milan’s four nil destruction of Siena in January of 2010 being one of the standout performances for the club under Leonardo’s tenure. <br /><br />However, some humiliating defeats in crucial games signaled that Leonardo was a coach who could only take the club so far. Milan were humiliated four goals to nil at Old Trafford under Leo and lost both derbies to hated rivals Inter. <br /><br />Many argued at the time, yours truly being one of them, that with a stronger side the Brazilian could achieve greater things. Yet, despite an impressive six months with the Nerazzurri where he took them to within fighting distance of the Scudetto, Leonardo was again found wanting in the crucial games that separates the winners from the losers. In the derby against his former employees, Leo’s Inter succumbed limply to a three nil defeat while in the Champions League his team were embarrassed by Schalke at home, conceding five goals to two. <br /><br />Despite his disappointments when boss of Milan, his departure from the club he once played for was more due to his deteriorating relationship with club supremo Silvio Berlusconi that had deteriorated beyond repair rather than because of the team’s on field displays. <br /><br />After literally being pushed on to the bench of the Rossoneri and then being asked to vacate just a year later, Leo jumped at the opportunity to take the over the reins at Milan’s hated rivals Inter. Though a qualified decision from the point of view of his own career, it was a betrayal of sorts to the club that first employed him as a player, then as a player and later as a coach over a thirteen year period. While Gattuso’s partaking in the chants by the club’s Ultras at the Stadio Olimpico was a step too far, the former Rangers midfielder justifiably felt aggrieved – like many Milan fans – with Leo’s decision to jump ship as when departing Milan he had made it clear he just did not want to continue coaching. <br /><br />After betraying the red half of Milan just six months ago, Leo has now betrayed the blue half. Inter had a horror start to their 2010-11 campaign under Rafa Benitez. The team’s Scudetto ambitions had effectively faded completely while they only managed to hang on in the Champions League time enough for things to be changed. <br /><br />Inter’s club President, Massimo Moratti took the right decision by pushing Benitez out of the club and bringing in a new boss. He turned to Leonardo who he hoped would rejuvenate his side much like he had done with the Rossoneri. <br /><br />By all accounts, Leonardo’s short six month tenure at Inter will be regarded as a success. He brought the team storming back up the table to finish second and he crowned the season with victory in the Coppa Italia. Certainly, as already noted, Leo’s Inter did display characteristic flaws; the failure to win in big matches and a complete lack of organization in defence being the two most notable. <br /><br />Nonetheless, despite his shortcomings and the two embarrassing defeats, one to Milan and the other Schalke, there was every reason for Leo to continue as Inter’s head coach. He had done enough to earn his stay and with the club looking to bridge the gap between them and title winning rivals Milan over the summer with some new signings, the Brazilian had much to look forward to. In addition, with another campaign over and with some valuable experience gained, Leo surely would have grown as a coach. Yet, Leonardo has now decided to leave Inter in what can only be seen as another betrayal. <br /><br />This time of the summer transfer campaign is critical as many players are considering their options. With Leonardo’s exit, not only does the club have to find a worthy replacement, but it hampers the club’s ability to find the right players and keep their key players. Wesley Scneijder has been strongly linked with a move to Manchester, either for the blue or red half, and he may just look more favourably upon such a move as a result of the position Leo has left Inter in. <br /><br />Leonardo is expected to return to PSG for a technical coaching role and for both the fans of Inter and Milan, it will be a welcome sight to see the back of Brazilian. <br /><br />You can read more from Frank Tigani on the pages of <a title="Italian Serie A News" href="http://www.serieaweekly.com/">SerieAWeekly.com</a> and <a href="http://twitter.com/serieaweekly" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.serieaweekly.com/images/followmeontwitter.gif" border="0" alt="twitter link" width="160" height="27" /></a><br />
Serie A Weekly - Frank Tigani
2011-06-20T16:02:00Z
Lessons From Pep And Kenny
Lamin
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Lessons-From-Pep-And-Kenny/-366961915050585390.html
2011-06-17T15:48:00Z
2011-06-17T15:48:00Z
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<p style="margin-bottom: 0.17in; line-height: 100%;"><a name="more"></a> <span style="font-family: Century,serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">As Chelsea takes a break for the summer and the search for the next manager continues, we, Chelsea fans, have to consider what kind of changes we would like to have done at the club to move forward from this "bad moment" that we had last season.<br /><br />There are two approaches when it comes to making changes in the team personals. The conservative approach suggests only a few tweaking to team, mainly getting rid of fringe players and bringing on fresher names into the lineup. It is a sensible approach since we only lost out the league title to Manchester United because of the mid-season slump which might be avoidable by bringing in a few players. This approach may call for getting rid of players like Yuri Zhirkov, Paulo Ferreira, Salomon Kalou and Nicolas Anelka.</span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0.17in; line-height: 100%;"><span style="font-family: Century,serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">There is also the Wholesale change approach. This approach will shake the current foundation of the team and call for some of the aging and under-performing players, who have been great servants for the team over the years, to leave the club. This approach concerns the likes of Didier Drogba, Jose Bosingwa, Michael Essien, and even Frank Lampard and John Terry. This is a much riskier and a more controversial approach. It will definitely take a strong manager (with the backing of Roman Abramovich) to carry out this move.<br /><br />The question is... which one works? I think that the club has stuck to the conservative approach since the departure of Jose Mourinho. Other players came and went but the core of the team - Cech, Terry, Lampard, Drogba, Asheley Cole, Essien - remained pretty much intact. And I think this approach has worked well for us. Sure we haven't won the Champions League yet but by sticking to this approach we have gotten to the final of Champions League, we remain as one of the fixtures in the Champions League knockout stages, and we won the FA Cup twice and a league title.<br /><br />But is there an argument to be made for the Wholesale approach? After all, these great players are getting older and slower. It is no doubt going to hard to let go of some of our favorites but is this the time to finally let go of those old soldiers?<br /><br />At least two examples back up the Wholesale approach. Pep Guardiola and Kenny Dalglish.<img style="float: right; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/PepYell.jpg" alt="" width="288" height="186" /></span></span></p>
<span style="font-family: Century,serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">When Guardiola was appointed as Barcelona manager in 2008, he immediately </span></span><a href="http://bleacherreport.com/articles/30185-pep-guardiola-says-ronaldinho-deco-and-etoo-are-free-to-go"><span style="color: #0000ff;"><span style="font-family: Century,serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">announced that the likes of Deco, Ronaldinho and Samuel Eto'o are not on his plan moving forward</span></span></span></span></a>. It was definitely a shock because Barcelona has won titles and a Champions League trophy with these very players playing in the spine of that team. Deco was the Xavi of his time, Ronaldinho was the FIFA World Player of the Year, and Eto'o was one of the top goal scorers both in the Spanish league and in the Champions League. This announcement comes soon after letting go of Zambrotta, Giovani dos Santos and Edmilson.<br />
<p style="margin-bottom: 0.17in; line-height: 100%;"><span style="font-family: Century,serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />These changes allowed Barcelona to bring in the likes of Daniel Alves, Seydou Keita, and Gerard Pique, while promoting youth players like Sergio Busquets and Pedro Rodriguez to the first team.<br /><br />And Guardiola's bold moves paid off. Barcelona has looked fresh and motivated. The numerous trophies they have won since 2008 is the testament to the success of Guardiola's Wholesale approach in his first year.</span></span></p>
<img style="float: left; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/KennyDalglish.jpg" alt="" width="228" height="127" />Kenny Dalglish is the other manager who has benefited from a Wholesale approach. In his case, the changes were less intentional than Pep Guardiola. Part of the Wholesale change came from the selling of Fernando Torres and injuries to some of Liverpool's key players like Steven Gerard.<br />
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Century,serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />By the time Dalglish took over in January of 2011, Liverpool is sitting at 12th position (losing 9 and drawing 4 of the first 20 games under Roy Hodgson). Dalglish was able to bring Liverpool back to 6th position at the end of the season. During this climb up the table, main striker Torres was sold, Steven Gerard was largely unavailable, Fabio Aurelio's injury and Paul Konchesky's form forced Glen Johnson to move to the left side of defense, and later Glen Johnson himself was injured too.<br /><br />Steven Gerard's injury allowed Raul Meireles, Lucas, and Jay Spearing to form new partnership in midfield. Injuries to their full backs mean that young players like Martin Kelly and John Flanagan can shine in the back. And up front, without Torres, Luis Suarez and Dirk Kuyt lined up well.<br /><br />Wholesale approach, intentional or unintentional, worked for these teams. It does not, however, mean that the same result will be replicated in Chelsea. But I think we should be open to the idea. As I said, it must be done with the right manager at the right time. If it happens, it will definitely be sad to some of the familiar faces go but it could be for the better, in some cases for both the players and the club (e.g. Samuel Eto'o). But it would also be bitter sweet because we will get a better chance to see some of our younger players become regulars in the starting lineup (e.g. Josh McEachran and Daniel Sturridge).<br /><br />So, what do you think is the suitable approach? Would you go with the conservative approach or the riskier one? Can that kind of Wholesale change approach work at the club? Would it be even allowed by Roman? Your thoughts?</span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Century,serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">By Lamin Oo (<a href="http://www.carefreechronicles.blogspot.com/">www.carefreechronicles.blogspot.com</a>)</span></span></p>
Lamin
2011-06-17T15:48:00Z
Here's why Rafa will be watching the Women's World Cup
Rafa
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Heres-why-Rafa-will-be-watching-the-Womens-World-Cup/-979786185436245733.html
2011-06-16T01:54:00Z
2011-06-16T01:54:00Z
Like I said, this posting is pretty simple and pretty straightforward. Some incredibly attractive female footballers took their clothes off for the German Playboy Magazine. I tried to decipher what their whole purpose of doing this was, but let's be honest... we all know why. The ladies stripped down to their birthday suits (in several images, many of which I cannot post in this blog because, well... we are not a porn site) in order to get a little bit of attention. Hey! More power to them.<br /><br />I mean really. The boys do it too. Look at all the half-naked Armani adds Becks and CR7 bust out. Sex sells ladies and gentlemen. It has for ages and let's not kid ourselves on that fact. Why should we look at this any differently. As long as these ladies can prove their skills and abilities on the field, why shouldn't they take their clothes off to bring more attention to their teams, careers, and sport in general. <br /><br /><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/GermanWomenNT01.jpg" alt="" width="349" height="456" /><br /><br />I mean look how hard these girls work! The girl on the right worked so hard she worked her shirt off in the process. Now that's dedication! But again, think about it. How many men are going to watch the Women's World Cup to see what these little lassies can do with a football. I know I spent some time anoraking footage of these girls play to see if they were any good, and guess what? They are. Three of the players in this shoot are from Bayern Munich and they dominate in Germany.<br /><br /><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/GermanWomenNT04.jpg" alt="" width="309" height="406" /><br /><br />See! I told you so. In the picture above you can see what these girls look like as they are prepping to head out to the pitch. Kind of makes this whole thing that much hotter to think what they can do with a ball and their feet. Now imagine that with no clothes on and I think many subscribers are envisioning their future wives!<br /><br /><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/GermanWomenNT03.jpg" alt="" width="459" height="306" /><br /><br />Nicely done Playboy in Germany. (ps... the real image of this picture has the girl in the tube naked fyi... if you really want to see the artsy naked pictures from the shoot, you'll find them. Or just email rafa@worldfootballdaily.com and he'll send you a link)<br /><br />Another point I want to bring up is the whole "Heavenly Sports Bra" shot heard round the world. Remember??? Ah yes. Brandi Chastain made a whole movement in Women's soccer by ripping off her shirt. I know she didn't mean to cause that much stir from the celebration and it was more of a natural reaction than a planned media pose.<br /><br /><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/GermanWomenNT05.jpg" alt="" width="500" height="526" /><br /><br />I mean you can't hate on a bunch of girls who are running around with no pants, a thong, some football boots and socks and dirty ripped t-shirts, can you? I think not! I'm seriously looking forward to watching these girls play and I hope all the best for them because if they play well, they'll only prove that they are more than just something to look at. (see how I make this non-sexist) Best of luck to you Lady Germans. I'll be pulling for ya.... (does that sound dirty to you?)<br /><br /><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/GermanWomenNT07safe.jpg" alt="" width="541" height="455" /><br />
Rafa
2011-06-16T01:54:00Z
Modric to become a Blue?
Will
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Modric-to-become-a-Blue/680141156715867918.html
2011-06-15T10:28:00Z
2011-06-15T10:28:00Z
There's been plenty of talk in recent months about the possibility of striker Didier Drogba defecting to North London side Spurs from Chelsea this summer as Harry Redknapp aims to lure the frontman away from a squad that now possesses an almost ridiculous level of competition up front, but could it be that as we look back on the main movements this summer when the 2011/2012 campaign gets underway, it's not Drogba who ended up being the headline mover between the clubs, but a man headed in the opposite direction?<br /><br />That man is none other than Luka Modric, who is being heavily linked with a big money move to Stamford Bridge. With Chelsea thought to be willing to offer the talented Croatian playmaker around £130,000 per week and also not thought to have a problem finding the £15 million or so thought to be the value placed on his head by Spurs, it could yet be that the tricky Spurs star steps out on the first day of next season in a blue shirt. Those following the <a href="http://betting.betfair.com/football/betfairfootball/">footballbetting</a> will know he's exactly the kind of player Chelsea need.<br /><br />With Modric thought to be just one of the names on Chelsea's wish-list as they bid to add strength in depth to a squad that lacked quality and the experience to cope when a few first team names picked up injuries last season, it looks likely that players such as John Terry, who have called for owner Roman Abramovich to invest heavily in order for the Blues to be able to compete with the likes of Manchester City, will be kept content over the coming months. Anyone who looks at the <a href="http://betting.betfair.com/football/betfairfootball/champions-league/">Champions League odds</a> will know how vital this is.<br /><br />Should Modric, however, decide that he doesn't want to follow in the footsteps of Fernando Torres by failing to resist the lure of a bigger club even though it would perhaps be more sensible to stay as a big fish in a smaller pond, Spurs will need to prove they are a club capable of fighting their way back into the Champions League next season.<br />
Will
2011-06-15T10:28:00Z
Big Stars That Could Arrive In Italy This Summer
Serie A Weekly - Frank Tigani
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Big-Stars-That-Could-Arrive-In-Italy-This-Summer/-968643804851876965.html
2011-06-09T17:07:00Z
2011-06-09T17:07:00Z
<p>This summer is set to be the most exciting in Serie A for a number of seasons. Recently, Inter have dominated Italian football not just on the field but also in the transfer market. Stars like Samuel Eto’o, Wesley Sneijder and Lucio are just some that the Nerazzurri have brought to the peninsula. However, just as the balance of power shifted on the field this past season, so too is the balance of power levelling out in the transfer market.</p>
<p>Despite becoming champions, this summer Milan look set to strengthen their champion team even more. In fact, they have already started after it was confirmed that Philippe Mexes and Taye Taiwo will be Rossoneri players next season. A host of other players have been linked to the club too.</p>
<p>Juventus meanwhile are set to commence another major rebuilding process after the failure of previous attempts. The Old Lady has a new boss in Antonio Conte and have already signed Andrea Pirlo and Reto Ziegler. Like Milan, they have also been linked with a host of stars as they aim for Champions League football next season after missing out this term.</p>
<p>The American Revolution that is set to take place in Roma when Thomas Di Benedetto arrives in a few weeks also sees the Giallorossi as potential major players in the market. Indeed, Roma are perhaps the club that is set for the biggest transfer campaign as their new American owner aims to turn the club into a force once again in Italy and in Europe.</p>
<p>Here some of the stars that have been rumoured to be on their way to the Italian peninsula. There are some exciting names and the addition of any one or few of them will make for an even more exciting Serie A season.</p>
<p>Franck Ribery</p>
<p>The French international is one of the game’s undoubted stars. Alongside Arjen Robben, his impressive performances last season were one of the main reasons the Bavarians reached the Champions League final in Madrid.</p>
<p>Just as he is a major protagonist at club level, Ribery is also the talisman for France post Zidane. His arrival in Italy would spark major excitement not just in Turin but across the country. For Juventus, a club so desperate to get back to their former glories, he is the class of player that could help the Old Lady’s cause.</p>
<p>Despite Bayern’s disappointing season, Ribery was a key player throughout the season just past and at 28 years old the Frenchman is in the peak of his career. New Juventus coach Antonio Conte is known to favour a 4-4-2 system and Ribery would slot in nicely on either the right or left side of midfield, interchanging with Milos Krasic.</p>
<p>Chances of Ribery coming to Italy: Very low</p>
<p>Carlos Tevez</p>
<p>The Argentinean has seemingly never really settled in Manchester City. In fact, Tevez has even hinted at retiring from the game completely. Unsettled he may always seem to be, Tevez was equal</p>
<p>top goal scorer in the Premier League last season in addition to captaining the Citizens to their first trophy in 35 years.</p>
<p>Manager Roberto Mancini has revealed during the season that Tevez desires a move to Italy. At least, he did in January when he handed in a transfer request.</p>
<p>Juventus have been linked with the Argentine dynamo as well as Inter who have expressed their interest. At 27 years of age he has some of his best years ahead of him and he would be a great addition to either the Turin giants or the Nerazzurri.</p>
<p>Chances of Coming to Italy: Low</p>
<p>Lukaku</p>
<p>Romelu Lukaku is one of the hottest properties in Europe at the moment. Still only 17 years old, the young Belgian has attracted the interest of Premier League giants Chelsea who have been heavily linked to him as they sought a replacement for Didier Drogba.</p>
<p>However, with Thomas Di Benedetto willing to spend big in order to attract top quality talent to Rome, the Anderlecht star could see himself in the colours of the Giallorossi next season.</p>
<p>Top goal scorer in Belgian last season, Lukaku would be a major coup for the capital club and it would send a strong signal to the rest of the league and Europe for that matter that Roma mean business.</p>
<p>However, Lukaku would not come cheap after his club have demanded 30 million euros for his signature. This should not ward of the attention of Roma, however, competing with Chelsea for his services will prove a tough challenge.</p>
<p>Chances of Coming to Italy: Low</p>
<p>Sergio Aguero</p>
<p>Juventus have been linked with a host of stars in recent months and Sergio Aguero is just another one. The Argentine is one of the hottest stars in Europe and at the still young age of 22 years the best is still yet to come.</p>
<p>Ageuro would be an instant hit in Italy with his clinical finishing and speed. He is just adept to creating goals as well as scoring them. Just like the arrival of Ribery, Aguero’s arrival in Turin if it were to happen would be a major boost to the Old Lady’s bid to regain its status at the top of Italian football.</p>
<p>Juventus, however, face stiff competition from Premier League giants Chelsea and Manchester United.</p>
<p>Chances of Aguero Coming to Italy: Maybe</p>
<p>Rafael van der Vaart</p>
<p>It is no secret that Milan are searching for a left sided midfield player. They are willing to spend big too. Galliani has indicated that the club are looking for well-rounded player, one who can both score goals and help out defensively. Rafael van der Vaart fits this description.</p>
<p>Though they enjoyed an impressive inaugural season in the Champions League, Tottenham failed to qualify for next year’s edition and this could help aid Milan’s attempts to lure him to Italy.</p>
<p>The season past, van der Vaart was Tottenham’s top goal scorer as well as assist provider. With his exceptional attacking qualities he could also be deployed as the team’s trequartista meaning that he offers greater options to coach Max Allegri.</p>
<p>Chances of Coming to Italy: Good</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
You can read more from Frank Tigani on the pages of <a title="Italian Serie A News" href="http://www.serieaweekly.com">SerieAWeekly.com</a> and <a href="http://twitter.com/serieaweekly" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.serieaweekly.com/images/followmeontwitter.gif" border="0" alt="twitter link" width="160" height="27" /></a>
Serie A Weekly - Frank Tigani
2011-06-09T17:07:00Z
Why we love America!
Rafa
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Why-we-love-America!/-279251055857461818.html
2011-06-08T00:08:00Z
2011-06-08T00:08:00Z
With the United States kicking off their Gold Cup Campaign tonight against our Northern rivals in Canada, I thought what better way to show support for our "Indivisible" boys then by reminding them what living the American Dream is all about. <br /><br />Here we see what happens when you live the American Dream as a soccer player. Clint Dempsey is not only scoring loads of goals for Fulham in England making a name for himself on a world wide stage, not only does this Texas boy get to represent his country in international competition, but he married this lovely little lady by the name of Bethany.<br /><br />Bethany's love for her husband and her country, made her strip down and get body painted in support of his World Cup Dream back in the day for Sports Illustrated. Now that's love boys and girls. <br /><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/BethanyD04.jpg" alt="Bethany Dempsey" width="285" height="429" /><br />You wanna know why Clint is doing so well? I'll tell you. Because whether he is at Fulham or back home reppin the his country in the Gold Cup... this smokie hot piece of American Pie will always keep him warm.<br /><br />Not bad sir. Not bad at all. Now go whip us some Canadian ass and make the old Stars and Stripes proud.<br /><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/BethanyDempsey01.jpg" alt="Bethany Dempsey" width="349" height="262" /><br />We should also mention that we talked about football on today's show. Yes. It's true. World Football Daily prepped it's American audience big time for today's match against Canada. We had Nigel Reed of CBC Sports, Arlo White of the Seattle Sounders, and we wrapped up the show with <a href="http://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/wfd-premium-complete-show/id431285687" target="_blank">Jordan Harvey, defender for the Philadelphia Union</a>, who's interview you can find and download for free under the <a href="/pg/jsp/charts/audioMaster.jsp?dispid=306&pid=12805" target="_self">Daily Recap Archives</a>.<br /><br />"Go, Go! U-S-A!!!"<br /><br /><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/harvey.jpg" alt="Jordan Harvey" /><br />
Rafa
2011-06-08T00:08:00Z
Adam's Barclays Premier League Awards
Adam Johnson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Adams-Barclays-Premier-League-Awards/298482804914548447.html
2011-06-03T16:13:00Z
2011-06-03T16:13:00Z
<p><em><strong>Adam Johnson's Premier League Awards</strong></em></p>
<p>It has been a wild season in the Barclays Premier League with plenty of storylines and young stars rising up all over the place. Manchester United was probably the most consistent team and deserved the title. Chelsea and Manchester City locked up the Champions League group stage spots while Arsenal went from first to fourth in a couple months and will have to qualify through the playoffs. The relegation battle was hot all season with teams in the bottom half only separated by a few points. All of those things are great but let’s get to what this post is all about, the awards. Everyone has an opinion on these at this time of year so here is mine…</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Manager of the Season</span>- Sir Alex Ferguson, Manchester United</p>
<p>You cannot deny what Fergie has done this season. Many say this United team is the worst winners of the league in awhile but he doesn’t care about that. He kept everybody involved and got another great season out of Ryan Giggs. His team was the best defensively in the Premier League and they won most of the games they had to. It looks like he hasn’t lost any of the joy he got out of winning 30 years ago.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Goal of the Season</span>-Rooney gets on his bike, Manchester United 2-1 Manchester City</p>
<p>We have all seen it by now and what a goal it was. 1-1 against their cross town rivals, United needed someone to step up and Rooney was that guy. His bicycle kick gave Man United the lead in a game they needed to win. This goal may have lifted Manchester United to their record breaking 19<sup>th</sup> title.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Game of the Season</span>- Newcastle 4-4 Arsenal</p>
<p>When I was watching this game I thought, I have never seen anything like this, and apparently no one had ever seen anything like it. No one in the Premier League era has ever come back from down four to get a win or a draw until this game. Theo Walcott, Johan Djorou, and two from Robin van Persie put Arsenal up 4-0 after 26 minutes. In the second half Newcastle came out strong but the mountain to climb was a steep one. They got one on a Joey Barton penalty then another from Leon Best. Arsenal started to look nervous and even more so when Barton converted another penalty in the 82<sup>nd</sup> minute. Then in the 87<sup>th</sup> minute Cheik Tiote hit a volley on what was probably the runner up for goal of the season. St. James’ Park was going nuts and Arsenal looked mentally fragile once again.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Young Player of the Season</span>-Gareth Bale, Tottenham</p>
<p>This is the award Bale should’ve won. He had a brilliant start to the season and was a breath of fresh air. His pace and athleticism brought a new aspect to Tottenham’s game and when he was out of the lineup through injury it showed in Spurs’ results. He has a great career ahead of him.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Player of the Season</span>-Nemanja Vidic, Manchester United</p>
<p>Vidic was the stalwart at the back for United’s title winning team. He was the most consistent player on the best team in the league so this award makes sense. There wasn’t a standout player for this award so Vidic it is.</p>
Adam Johnson
2011-06-03T16:13:00Z
An Off Review For This Past Season
Rafa
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/An-Off-Review-For-This-Past-Season/542944941999396093.html
2011-05-30T22:32:00Z
2011-05-30T22:32:00Z
<br /><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #000000;"><strong>Of the Season: Some of the off-the-field moments</strong></span><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"> </span></span></span></span>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0.22in;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #000000;"><em><span style="font-weight: normal;">Supporter of the Season</span></em></span><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"> </span></span></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0.22in;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">That'd be 36-year-old Liverpool fan Shaun McCormack who, in December, demonstrated just how passionate he felt about his favorite player by changing his name by deed poll.</span></span></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0.22in; font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">How did he feel after the January transfer window?</span></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0.22in;"><span style="color: #000000;">“<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">Gutted,” Fernando Torres McCormack moaned.</span></span></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0.22in;"><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><em><span style="font-weight: normal;">Model of the season?</span></em></span></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0.22in;"><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Congratulations Aurora Oliveira: “I sleep with Serie A and Italy players. They’re all married. Sometimes I do it with the coaches there too.</span></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0.22in;"><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">The only issue is that footballers show such little respect, and some are far from beauties.</span></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0.22in;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #000000;">So I am closing that door, and opening another. I am all about Formula One. "</span></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0.22in;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #000000;"><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/auroraoliveira1.jpg" alt="Aurora Oliveira" /><br /></span></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0.22in;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #000000;"><em><span style="font-weight: normal;">Banner of the season</span></em></span><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"> </span></span></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0.22in;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">As seen at Blackpools Bloomfield Road: “Jesus satisfied 5,000 with five loaves and two fishes. Ian Holloway has satisfied millions with 11 Tangerines. </span></span></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0.22in;"><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><em><span style="font-weight: normal;">Joke of the season</span></em><span style="font-weight: normal;"> </span></span></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0.22in;"><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">Cristiano Ronaldo: “The god of football sent me to this planet to teach people how to play and showcase my talent.</span></span></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0.22in;"><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">Lionel Messi: I don’t remember sending anyone.</span></span></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0.22in;"><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"> <img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/messironaldoelclassico.jpg" alt="Messi Ronaldo" width="374" height="261" /></span></span></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0.22in;"><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><em><span style="font-weight: normal;">Friends of the season</span></em><span style="font-weight: normal;"> </span></span></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0.22in;"><span style="color: #000000;"><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Dioufy.jpg" alt="Dioufy" width="282" height="179" /><br /></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0.22in;"><span style="color: #000000;">“<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">Gaddafi is a man I have always admired. I do not honestly know what is really happening in Libya at the moment, but it must be very hard for Gaddafi and his family.” </span></span></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0.22in;"><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">- Rangers El-Hadji Diouf . . . </span></span></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0.22in;"><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong>Worth repeating: Words of wisdom from usual suspects</strong></span></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0.22in;"><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">Glenn Hoddle: “Didier Drogba’s had malaria, so he’s not 100 per cent fit for whatever reason.” </span></span></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0.22in;"><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">Jamie Redknapp: “Real Madrid aren’t in the same league as Barcelona.” </span></span></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0.22in;"><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">Ray Parlour: “If I was me, I would pick Lampard.” </span></span></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0.22in;"><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">Ray Wilkins: “Fabregas literally carries 10 yards of space around in his shorts.” </span></span></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0.22in;"><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/wilkins.jpg" alt="Ray Wilkins" width="239" height="320" /><br /></span></span></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0.22in;"><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">Ian Wright: “The thing about Drogba is that he scores when he doesn’t even play, if that’s possible.” </span></span></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0.22in;"><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">Micky Quinn: “Barcelona play football to die of.” </span></span></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0.22in;"><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">George Graham: “London is up there with Madrid or Milan, but Glasgow’s unique, along with Liverpool and Newcastle.” </span></span></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0.22in;"><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">Perry Groves: “Arsene Wenger has bought some tall defenders. There was Edu, then came Sol Campbell, Kolo Toure and even Ralph Lauren was over six foot.” </span></span></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0.22in;"><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong>Leaving a mark - how do you spell that again?</strong></span></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0.22in; font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">WHO clinched the tattoo of the season award? It was a close enough contest, with David Beckham putting in a strong challenge with his latest creation.</span></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0.22in; font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/DavidBeckhamtattoo.jpg" alt="Beckham Tattoo" width="332" height="249" /><br /></span></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0.22in; font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">As he explained: “It’s Jesus being carried by three cherubs and obviously the cherubs are my boys and so my thought of it is that at some point my boys are going to need to look after me and that’s what they’re doing in the picture. It means a lot.”</span></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0.22in; font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">The winner, though, is John Carew, the Norway striker on loan at Stoke City from Aston Villa.</span></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0.22in; font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">The poor lad went through the agony of having a tattoo put on his neck, the inscription, in French, meant to read My Life My Rules.</span></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0.22in; font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/johncarewtattoo.jpg" alt="Carew Tattoo" /></span></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0.22in; font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">Alas, a French professor at the University of Oslo noted that a stray accent over the word Regles meant Carew’s neck actually reads: My Life My Menstruation.</span></span></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"> </p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong>U-turns</strong></span></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"> </p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0.22in;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #07007a;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">January 2010</span></span><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">: “I’d just like to say that I would never in a million years go to Norwich. I can categorically say that.”</span></span></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0.22in;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #07007a;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">January 2011</span></span><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">: “I am massively pleased to join this massive club.”</span></span></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0.22in; font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #000000;">– <span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><em>Marc Tierney after leaving Colchester for, well, Norwich.</em></span></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0.22in;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #07007a;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">February 17th</span></span><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">: “Relax, I’m not going anywhere. I will not abandon the ship. I won’t leave mid-season.”</span></span></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0.22in;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">February 20th: “After a game like </span></span><span style="color: #07007a;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">today</span></span><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">’s, I think it is right to send a signal. So at the final whistle I went to the locker-room to thank the team and decided to resign.”</span></span></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0.22in; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/ClaudioRanieri.jpg" alt="Claudio Ranieri" width="289" height="173" /><br /></span></span></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0.22in; font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #000000;">– <span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><em>Claudio Ranieri after abandoning the good ship Roma.</em></span></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0.22in;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #07007a;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">March 1st</span></span><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">: “Live in Cork? I’d rather shoot myself. I prefer Los Angeles.”</span></span></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0.22in;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #07007a;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">March 4th</span></span><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">: “I love Cork. I’ve Cork tattooed on my body."</span></span></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="color: #000000;">– <span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><em><span style="font-weight: normal;">Stephen Ireland leaving his fellow Rebels confused</span></em></span></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"> </p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><strong>APOLOGY of the season?</strong></span><em> </em></span></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"> </p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><em>Take a bow Gigi Becali. The owner of Steaua Bucharest decided it was time to clear his conscience by apologising to everyone he has offended this year – and that list is really rather lengthy (it includes gays, Rapid Bucharest owner George Copos and anyone who doesn’t share the Orthodox Christian’s religion).</em></span></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0.22in;"><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/gigibecali.jpg" alt="Gigi Becali" width="295" height="196" /><br /><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">His apology to Copos? “I’m sorry for what I called him. Yes, he’s cheap, but let God judge everyone, I don’t have to do it.”</span></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0.22in;"><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Gays? “I apologise to them. It’s their problem, their disease, not mine.”</span></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0.22in;"><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Miscellaneous religious groups? “I’m sorry to all of the religions, the cults. But I do have my views. Jehovah’s Witnesses are on the way to perdition.”</span></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0.22in;"><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">And with that he declared himself “cleansed” and “reborn”.</span></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0.22in;"><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Sorry, after all, seems to be the hardest word.</span></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0.22in;"><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/auroraoliveira3.jpg" alt="Aurora Oliveira" width="314" height="429" /><br /><br /></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0.22in;"><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><em>As printed in the Irish Times (05/23) and written by Mary Hannigan.</em></span></span></span></p>
Rafa
2011-05-30T22:32:00Z
The future of US Soccer is in good hands
Rafa
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/The-future-of-US-Soccer-is-in-good-hands/-933486682063539350.html
2011-05-26T23:09:00Z
2011-05-26T23:09:00Z
<br />He's been nothing but consistent for Hans Backe and the New York Red Bulls. Sure, playing with Thierry Henry, Marquez, D-Ro and that lot doesn't hurt, but Tim Ream is quickly carving his piece of the spotlight and will be representing his country (something he takes the utmost pride in) this summer in the Gold Cup.<br /><br />We cannot thank Tim and the NYRB club enough for getting together with us this morning. We ended up keeping the defender for 20 minutes, discussing everything from who he looks up to in the Red Bull's dressing room and what it means to represent his country on international duty, to being nutmegged by his fiancée who he will marry soon! With all this recent success and attention, we ask him if a move to Europe is in his plans. Hear what Tim had to say by listening to the entire interview in the <a title="Interview Archives" href="/pg/jsp/charts/audioMaster.jsp?dispid=301" target="_self">Interview Archives</a> section.<br /><br />Not a member? You can still catch the highlights from the Tim Ream interview in the <a title="Daily Recaps" href="/pg/jsp/charts/audioMaster.jsp?dispid=306&pid=12659" target="_self">Daily Recap Section</a> on WorldFootballDaily.com, or by downloading the free <a title="WFD Podcast" href="http://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/wfd-premium-complete-show/id431285687" target="_blank">WFD Podcast</a> with all the free content we offer out there.<br /><br />Best of luck Tim, although by judging your past year, I am sure you're lucky enough. Go make us proud and represent these States!<br /><br /><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/USTimReam.jpg" alt="Tim Ream USMNT" width="668" height="375" /><br />
Rafa
2011-05-26T23:09:00Z
Italian Football On The Way Up!
Serie A Weekly - Frank Tigani
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Italian-Football-On-The-Way-Up!/940005240862606209.html
2011-05-26T18:08:00Z
2011-05-26T18:08:00Z
<p>This season in Italy’s Serie A there was a new Scudetto winner for the first time since Calciopoli. Led by the young genius of Max Allegri, with a combination of starlets, genuine stars and the ever present veterans, Milan marched towards their 18th title in impressive fashion after retaining pole position for the best part of the season.</p>
<p>It was a triumph well deserved and that marks the end of Inter’s hegemony of the Serie A and perhaps the start of a new and successful cycle at Milan. It was not easily won, however, in contrast to Inter’s previous Scudetto successes when Roma were really the only other genuine contenders though even their credentials at the time were debatable.</p>
<p>Napoli provided strong competition for nearly the breadth of the season while Lazio threatened to be contenders after showing to be the early season pacesetters. Then, of course, Inter fought back remarkably under former Milan boss Leonardo to become challengers after a disastrous first half of the season.</p>
<p>It was one of the most competitive and exciting Serie A seasons in recent memory. As much as it may mark a new era for the Champions, Milan, it may also signal the start of a brighter period for Italian football in general.</p>
<p>Milan were undoubtedly the strongest team over the stretch of the season and this was thanks to the number of key signings the club made last summer and during the January transfer window. This summer the club is intent on further strengthening their squad in order to challenge for the top prize in Europe, the Champions League. With a few extra additions, this is highly possible.</p>
<p>While Milan continue to build an even stronger side, Inter and Napoli, the two sides that pushed them the furthest during the campaign will also be looking to either to, at least, maintain or strengthen their competitiveness.</p>
<p>For certain Inter will endeavour to bridge the gap between them and their city rivals with an injection of a few new players to freshen up their squad.</p>
<p>Napoli, the best supported club in Southern Italy, will attempt to do the same though for them it may prove a more difficult task. The club do seem on the right track, however, after securing the services of their prolific striker and talisman Edison Cavani for another five seasons. Yet, whether Napoli can again be a force in Serie A whilst also participating in the Champions League will depend on whether they can keep their stars like Lavezzi and Hamsik and, in addition, add some needed depth to their squad.</p>
<p>What is certain, next season both Inter and Milan will be stronger. This is not only a positive for the league, but, hopefully Italy will be better represented in the Champions League as a result. It should not be hard for this to happen after the embarrassing Italian campaign of the season just passed.</p>
<p>Napoli’s Champions League prospects depend on what occurs over the summer in terms of who comes in and who leaves. Importantly, the debacle as to whether Walter Mazzari was to remain the team’s coach is over and the club can now focus on their strategy for the summer transfer season.</p>
<p>While Inter, Milan and Napoli are capable of being formidable forces in Europe next season, Udinese are not.</p>
<p>The Zebrette surely exceeded even their own expectations by claiming fourth spot and, hence, the last Champions League place for the Serie A. This season just finished is the last that the Serie A will be afforded a fourth spot for the Champions League. In truth, it would have been better for Calcio if either Juventus or Roma claimed it.</p>
<p>Udinese have never in their history achieved much on the European stage and this is not about to change anytime soon, despite their impressive season where they played some of the best attacking football on the peninsula.</p>
<p>For all their success in qualifying for the Champions League the club already seem resigned to the fact that many of the star players, in particular, Alexis Sanchez – who is undoubtedly their most talented and promising star – will leave. Kwadwo Asamoah is another who may leave while Gohklan Inler has already agreed a move to Napoli.</p>
<p>Outside Italy’s top four teams this season, there is reason to believe that next season there will much increased competition for the title and for the three Champions League spots especially from Juventus and Roma.</p>
<p>The Giallorossi, in particular, are set to undergo an American revolution when their new owner Thomas Di Benedetto arrives in town with his American dollars. He has already made it clear that he wants to make Roma a power once again of Italian football with his ambitions of replicating the success Silvio Berlusconi has enjoyed at Milan since buying the club in 1986.</p>
<p>It could be similar to the Russian revolution experienced at Chelsea when Roman Ambramovich arrived. This means that there could be a number of star players headed to the Italian capital next season as the club will, at the very least, be aiming to qualify for the Champions League if not aiming to become Serie A Champions.</p>
<p>In addition to Di Benedetto’s objective of signing star players he is also planning to build Roma its own stadium. It is well known that one of the key issues in Italy has been that clubs do not own their own stadiums and as a result they miss out on a potentially significant source of revenue. Hence, this development is a real positive for Italian football in general. Hopefully other clubs will follow suit.</p>
<p>After another disappointing season, Juventus, who will have their own new stadium ready for next season, will attempt to again rebuild their squad as the club desperately tries to regain its former glories. Luigi Del Neri has been fired, Antonio Conte is set to take over his role and the club have been linked to numerous stars from Spain, Italy and England. If the Old Lady can finally get it right with a successful summer campaign and provide their supporters with a competitive team to take to the pitch at their new stadium, then, along with Roma the Turin giants will also by vying for top spot and Champions League qualification.</p>
<p>All this signals positive change for Serie A. The strength of the two Milan giants, the expected added competitiveness of Roma and Juventus along with the likes of Napoli and Lazio – if they can maintain or even strengthen their positions – will make for an even more exciting and tense season next time round.</p>
<p>In addition, all this means that there could be more talent coming to the peninsula, rather, as it has been for much of the last five years, than leaving. Serie A will be more competitive, better and consequently Italian clubs, aside from just Milan and Inter, may start performing better on the European stage.</p>
<p>With more competitive sides and if the trend towards clubs building and owning their own stadiums continues, then the future of Calcio looks brighter. All this may just be the start of Italian football slowly making its way up to where it belongs, as one of the top three leagues in Europe.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><em>Frank Tigani is a writer for Italian Football Website, Serie A Weekly.com. He is also the creator of acmilanblog.net and is a editor for the Canadian Soccer Magazine publication, 11 Players. Originally from Australia, Frank covered Australian football and Australia's World Cup campaign during the 2010 South Africa FIFA World Cup for, just-football.com.</em></p>
<p><em> </em></p>
<p>You can read more from Frank Tigani on the pages of <a href="http://www.serieaweekly.com/" target="_blank">SerieAWeekly.com</a> and <a rel="nofollow" href="http://twitter.com/Franky_T" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.serieaweekly.com/images/followmeontwitter.gif" border="0" alt="twitter link" width="160" height="27" /></a></p>
Serie A Weekly - Frank Tigani
2011-05-26T18:08:00Z
Balotelli back in Italian plans
Will
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Balotelli-back-in-Italian-plans/548063102284288974.html
2011-05-26T09:51:00Z
2011-05-26T09:51:00Z
Manchester City's Italian striker Mario Balotelli has been handed a recall to the national squad for their upcoming Euro 2012 qualification match against Estonia. That match will followed by a friendly against the Republic of Ireland four days later and the striker will have the chance to prove his worth to Cesare Prandelli. The Italy head coach dropped Balotelli along with Daniele De Rossi for breaching team rules. The Roma midfielder has once again been left out of the squad though, his absence from the final three Serie A games due to suspension not helping his case. Those who look at the <a href="http://betting.betfair.com/football/euro-2012/">Euro betting odds</a> will know ill discipline can cost a side a game.<br /><br />Balotelli finally begun to prove himself at Eastlands during City's successful end of season run-in, and Prandelli has been impressed by the striker's return to form. The fiery front-man hasn't exactly blown the City fans away since his big money move to the club last summer. An injury interrupted season as well as a number of disciplinary issues has seen the striker only start 22 games for his new club, finishing with 10 goals. Those who look at the <a href="http://betting.betfair.com/football/">latest football betting odds</a> will have expected more of him.<br /><br />He seemed to regain his focus towards the end of the season though, playing a key role in City's FA Cup success. It looks as though Balotelli is determined to repay Roberto Mancini for the faith he has shown him over the years. The battle will be on for the former Inter Milan man to get himself in ideal shape ahead of the new season, when he'll have the perfect chance to show the Premier League just what he is capable of. <br /><br />Firstly though, and the 20-year-old will need to prove the faith shown in him by his national manager Prandelli. The head coach handed Balotelli his Italy debut earlier this season and the front-man will now have a chance to establish himself in the national team. Balotelli's relationship with the Italian public has often been a fractured one – neither side doing themselves any favours in the past – but if the striker can start scoring for the national team then he'll soon become a fans favourite. <br />
Will
2011-05-26T09:51:00Z
Top 5 American Gold Cup Omissions
Cody Worsham
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Top-5-American-Gold-Cup-Omissions/445465025566212133.html
2011-05-26T01:18:00Z
2011-05-26T01:18:00Z
The confusion among US soccer media and fans as Monday's Gold Cup roster announcement was delayed was not in the least bit stymied once the roster was finally released.<br /><br />
<div>If nothing else, Bob Bradley's 23-man roster for June's CONCACAF championship tournament was a puzzling one – a mixed bag of pleasant surprises and disappointments – and the weeks leading up to June 7's opening round matchup vs. Canada in Detroit leaves us ample time to analyze Bradley's selections.</div>
<div><br />We'll kick off the discussion with the five most surprising omissions from the roster, with a special bonus mention at the end.<br /><a name="more"></a></div>
<div><strong>1) Mixx Diskerud</strong></div>
<div><strong><br /></strong></div>
<div><a href="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/7/77/Mikkel_Diskerud_02.JPG/467px-Mikkel_Diskerud_02.JPG"><img style="border: 0; float: right;" src="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/7/77/Mikkel_Diskerud_02.JPG/467px-Mikkel_Diskerud_02.JPG" border="0" alt="" width="155" height="200" /></a>With the absence of injured playmaker Stuart Holden, Diskerud seemed a shoo-in to fill that central creative void. It was not to be, however, for Stabæk midfielder.</div>
<div>Born in Norway but eligible for the U.S. by way of an Arizonian mother, Diskerud made his debut for the U.S. in November's friendly v. South Africa, and his incisive passing, as well as an ability to play a variety of midfield and attacking positions, seemed to favor his selection.</div>
<div><strong><br /></strong></div>
<div>Bradley had other thoughts, and his decision to leave Mix at home indicates a larger trend for this tournament favoring age and experience over youth and potential.</div>
<br />“Mixx is a younger player that has shown promise," Bradley said. "So many different things get put into it when you’re looking at a roster. I think Mixx is a player...when you think about the Olympic team situation coming up and other opportunities including friendlies with the national team that we’ll see him again.”<br />
<div><br />While few expected Diskerud to be a starter this summer, there's no doubt the U.S. could use his offensive spark late in games if the attack isn't up to par.<br /><br />
<div><strong>2) Teal Bunbury</strong></div>
<div><strong><br /></strong></div>
<img style="border: 0; float: left;" src="http://spotkicks.files.wordpress.com/2010/11/teal-bunbury.png" border="0" alt="" />
<div>Bunbury, like Diskeruud, seems to have fallen victim to age here, as Bradley selected the more veteran Chris Wondolowski ahead of Sporting Kansas City's budding star.</div>
<div>Bradley, however, argues that the selection was less about age and more about form.</div>
"I didn’t think it was the right time for him," the coach said of Bunbury. "I don’t think he’s been as sharp as we would like so far in the season. I think that’s a sign of him continuing to mature and grow."</div>
<div><br />That lack In seven MLS contests this season, Bunbury has tallied three goals, two of which came against a leaky Vancouver defense, but has gone scoreless in his last five, <br />all KC losses.</div>
<div>Another dual-citizen, Bunbury may be regretting his decision to pledge his allegiance to the flag of the United States of America instead of standing on guard for O' Canada. </div>
He expressed his disappointment over Twitter last night: "Thanks for all the support. Things like this make me a stronger person and player. Good Luck to all the guys."<br />
<div><br />
<div><strong>3) Timothy Chandler</strong></div>
<div><strong><br /></strong><br />Of the five (plus one) players mentioned here, Chandler is the biggest surprise, but speculation that his absence is just that – an absence, not an omission.<br /><br />In fact, it seems the delay on Monday could have been a result of Chandler's request to remain left out of the mix this summer.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.thedenimkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/chandler-timothy.jpg"><img style="border: 0; float: left;" src="http://www.thedenimkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/chandler-timothy.jpg" border="0" alt="" width="200" height="150" /></a>"We felt that it didn’t make sense at this time for [Chandler]" Bradley said. "He’s carried a few little injuries of late. He has told us that physically and mentally this season has been a hard one. We feel strongly that we’ve worked hard to build a good relationship with him and felt that when you added everything up that the time wasn’t right for this Gold Cup."<br /><br />The Nuremberg fullback would have provided great outside defensive depth, and perhaps could have challenged for a starting left back nod (though he's featured on the right for the U.S. in the past). There is also speculation that Chandler could be buying time to ponder a German call-up, if Die Mannschaft throw one his way.<br /><br />Steve Cherundolo should do just fine on the right, but Chandler's speed and work rate would have made the U.S. defense stronger, regardless. Bradley needs to ensure Chandler is capped in a non-friendly international match so the Germans keep their hands away from the best defensive prospect the U.S. has.</div>
<div><strong>4) Alejandro Bedoya</strong><br /><strong><br /></strong><br />For the second time in as many Mays, Bedoya finds himself on the wrong side of the cutline for a major international tournament.<br /><br /><a href="http://u.goal.com/91400/91432.jpg"><img style="border: 0; float: right;" src="http://u.goal.com/91400/91432.jpg" border="0" alt="" width="226" height="320" /></a>The young Orebro midfielder was one of the last names axed from the 2010 World Cup roster, but he seemed a lock for a Gold Cup spot. His energy and versatility would come in handy on the substitutes' bench, but Bradley indicated Bedoya's style of play might be too similar to what the U.S already have ample supply of.<br /><br />"[Bedoya] has energy and willingness to be involved in the game in a good way, but nonetheless we looked at some of the other players and now in some cases you have to make some tough decisions where certain guys are almost in the same category," Bradley said.</div>
<div>That "same category" includes interior wingers – outside midfielders who like to drift centrally, ala Clint Dempsey, Landon Donovan, Sacha Kljestan, and Benny Feilhaber. Add in a surprise like Freddy Adu, and Bedoya becomes expendable.<br /><br /></div>
<div><strong><br />5) Charlie Davies</strong><br /><strong><br /></strong><br />It's crazy to think that this time a year ago, many fans felt Charlie Davies could make a World Cup roster, even though he was just a few months past an October car crash that almost took his life.<br /><br />Fast forward another year, and Davies, like Bedoya, will have to watch the national team play its biggest tournament of the year from home.<br /><br />
<div class="separator"><a href="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/2/26/Charlie-davies.jpg/398px-Charlie-davies.jpg"><img style="border: 0; float: left;" src="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/2/26/Charlie-davies.jpg/398px-Charlie-davies.jpg" border="0" alt="" width="211" height="320" /></a></div>
Though his MLS resurgence has been a media dream – his six goals in league play trail only Landon Donovan's seven – Bradley indicated Davies has yet to show he can impact the game enough away from the penalty spot, where he's scored four of his goals, to merit a call up.<br /><br />"I had a good conversation with [Davies] on the telephone the other day and just told him that I still feel that it’s still not totally where it needs to be," Bradley said. "Part of that is tricky because you’re looking at strikers and you want to see goals. Obviously he’s done well to put himself in some good goal scoring situations but in terms of his all-around contribution to the team I still think he’s working his way back."</div>
<div>That comeback, coupled with the emergence of Juan Agudelo as a fitting partner for Jozy Altidore, would have made it difficult for Bradley to include Davies.<br /><br /><strong><br /></strong><br /><strong><br />Bonus: Jose Francisco Torres</strong><br /><strong><br /></strong><br />Torres' omission isn't surprising at this point in time. But, had you asked a year ago, most fans would have expected the 23-year-old central midfielder to compete for a starting spot in the Gold Cup and would not have wondered if he'd even earn a roster spot.<br />
<div class="separator"><a href="http://www.majorleaguesoccertalk.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/08/jose-francisco-torres2-215x300.jpg"><img style="border: 0; float: right;" src="http://www.majorleaguesoccertalk.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/08/jose-francisco-torres2-215x300.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a></div>
<br />Torres' decline in the U.S. soccer picture has been strange. In pre-World Cup friendlies against the likes of Turkey, Torres showed a composure, passing range, and defensive skill that boded well for his future internationally.<br /><br />However, a "poor" (quotations to emphasize the misperception of his play) performance in a World Cup start against Slovenia was the last we've seen of Torres. The Pachuca midfielder hasn't even really been an afterthought, especially with the abundance of central midfield talent in the U.S. ranks right now.<br /><br />Don't rule him out of the USMNT picture just yet, however. Jermaine Jones will be too gray for World Cup 2014 play, and Torres, should he improve at the club level, could battle Maurice Edu and (gasp!) Michael Bradley (whose lack of club playing time is worth note) for midfield spots (if Stu Holden moves wide right, as expected).</div>
</div>
Cody Worsham
2011-05-26T01:18:00Z
Celtic Triumph in Scottish Cup Final
Sandy Thin
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Celtic-Triumph-in-Scottish-Cup-Final/332304843684905593.html
2011-05-23T17:48:00Z
2011-05-23T17:48:00Z
<p>Celtic took home their first trophy since 2009 with a 3-0 victory over Motherwell in the Scottish Cup Final at Hampden on Saturday. After the disappointed of losing the league to Rangers last weekend, it was vital for the Glasgow side to win the cup for their season not to be an utter failure. For both Celtic and Rangers no season is seen as a great success for the team that loses the league but the Scottish Cup is the second best thing and provided Neil Lennon with his first silverware as manager of the club.</p>
<p>The Parkhead side dominated Motherwell over the 90 minutes with fantastic goals from both Ki Sung-Yeung and Charlie Mulgrew, as well as an own goal from Motherwell captain Stephen Craigan. The Korean had one of his best games in a Celtic shirt and rightfully picked up the man of the match award after the game.</p>
<p>Although not the most successful season for Celtic in terms of silverware, Celtic have benefited this season from building a new backbone to their side; new signings such as Gary Hooper, Emilio Izaguirre, Beram Kayal and perhaps most notably Kris Commons have vastly improved the team. They will hope next season to prevent Rangers from getting a fourth successive title.</p>
<p>Celtic's majority shareholder has said that Neil Lennon will be promised a long-term contract shortly. Lennon has had a turbulent season to say the least, involving death threats, attempted parcel bombings, bullets being sent to his home, all of which have resulted in him being kept under 24-hour police surveillance for his own safety. It is unlikely that next season he or his nemeses will quieten down and with Ally McCoist taking charge of Rangers, things are only going to get more nasty between the two clubs and their fans.</p>
<p>Scotland will have four teams in Europe next season, Rangers will have to play two play-offs to get into the group stages of the Champions League as a result of Scotland losing its coefficient to Belgium. Celtic, Hearts and Dundee United will in turn have to play one, two and three play-offs to get into the Europa League. It is largely based on who they get in the draw but it is very likely that at least two of the four clubs will not reach their desired competitions which will cause further damage to the coefficient which is in dire need of at least one club to have a decent run in either the Champions League or, more likely, the Europa League.</p>
Sandy Thin
2011-05-23T17:48:00Z
La Liga's Best 11 & Review of the World's Best League
By Stephen Kuzner, WFD La Liga Blogger
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/La-Ligas-Best-11--Review-of-the-Worlds-Best-League/-591459058389672127.html
2011-05-23T02:29:00Z
2011-05-23T02:29:00Z
<p>The final week of La Liga saw all the games that involved something to be played for occurring all at the same time in the last time slot. It felt kind of strange watching three games before them that had little to watch for other than to see if Ronaldo would beat the single season scoring record (which he did emphatically), to see if Barça’s youth team could beat Málaga at La Rosaleda (which it did), or wonder the point of Hercules vs. Sporting Gijón (which it didn’t). I have to admit the drama of 5 games with relegation implications being contested at the same time is compelling. So here is La Liga week 38 and year 2010-11 in sum.</p>
<p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Scores</span></strong></p>
<p><strong>Málaga </strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">1-2</span> <strong>Barçalona </strong>| Fernández 31', Bojan Krkic p44', Afellay 76', Bartra 84'<br /><strong>Hercules </strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">0-0</span><strong>S Gijón </strong>| Pointless and Scoreless.<br /><strong>Deportivo </strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">0-2</span> <strong>Valencia </strong>| Adruiz 4', Soldado 90'<br /><strong>Espanyol </strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">2-3</span><strong>Sevilla </strong>| Osvaldo 54', Verdu 73', Negredo 2',62', Kanoute 45' <br /><strong>Levante </strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">1-2</span> <strong>R Zaragoza </strong>| Stuani 80', Gabi 39',73'<br /><strong>Mallorca </strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">3-4</span><strong> A Madrid </strong>| Guzman p62', Webo 71',90', Agüero 12',59',81', Juanfran 18'<br /><strong>Osasuna</strong> <span style="text-decoration: underline;">1-0</span><strong> Villarreal </strong>| Cejudo 42'<br /><strong>Racing </strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">1-2</span> <strong>A Bilbao </strong>| Bakircioglü 88', Lopez 21', Llorente 22'<br /><strong>R Sociedad </strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">1-1</span> <strong>Getafe </strong>| Sutil 66', Diaz 9'<br /><strong>R Madrid </strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">8-1</span> <strong>Almeria </strong>| Ronaldo 4',77', Adebayor 31',52',73', Benzema 48',62', Joselu 87', Uche 33'<br /><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><br />Table</span></strong></p>
<p><em>As (#) is what I predicted in my La Liga preview. Not too shabby.</em></p>
<div>
<div>
<p>1. <strong>Barçalona</strong> (96) Undeniably the best team in the world until UCL Final. (#2)<br />2. <strong>Real Madrid</strong> (92) Pellegrini got 96 points last year. Is Mourinho safe? (#1)<br />3. <strong>Valencia</strong> (71) Is Soldado that good? Is everyone for sale? UCL again! (#5)<br />4. <strong>Villarreal</strong> (62) Spectacular start. UCL qualifiers next year. Bye Rossi. (#6)<br />5. <strong>Sevilla</strong> (58) They just don’t swashbuckler as well as past few years. (#4)<br />6. <strong>A Bilbao</strong> (58) Steady improvement. Can they keep “Lion King” Llorente? (#7)<br />7. <strong>A Madrid</strong> (58) UCL Talent. Bi-polar team temperament. Will Agüero stay? (#3)<br />8. <strong>Espanyol</strong> (49) Great 1<sup>st</sup> half. Lagging 2<sup>nd</sup> half. Why? Mucho youth. (#9)<br />9. <strong>Osasuna</strong> (47) They fight…the difference between mid-table & relegation (#15)<br />10. <strong>S. Gijón</strong> (47) Gijonudos (ballsy Gijon) punching above weight…again. (#14)<br />11. <strong>Málaga</strong> (46) Does momentum and deep pockets carry into next year? (#11)<br />12. <strong>Santander</strong> (46) Ditto Málaga comment. (#18)<br />13. <strong>Zaragoza</strong> (45) Was #14 the year prior. #12 year next year? (#17)<br />14. <strong>Levante</strong> (45) Why are they here? Oh yeah…Ecuadorian Felipe Caicedo. (#20)<br />15. <strong>Sociedad</strong> (45) If they keep Prieto & Griezmann, 2011-12 looks good. (#16)<br />16. <strong>Getafe</strong> (44) Sold Soldado & Leon last summer. Parejo this summer? (#10)<br />17. <strong>Mallorca</strong> (44) Last year, almost UCL. Debt = Sell players & fight drop. (#13)<br />18. <strong>Deportivo</strong> (43) Relegation is rough. They won La Liga…um…11 years ago. (#8)<br />19. <strong>Hercules</strong> (34) Well…it was fun. Adios Trezeguet, Valdez, & Drenthe. (#19)<br />20. <strong>Almeria</strong> (30) Sackings, getting killed left & right, pain, and relegation. (#12)</p>
</div>
</div>
<p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">La Liga’s Best 11</span></strong></p>
<p><strong>Iker Casillas</strong> (R Madrid) Zamora to Victor Valdez, but Saint Iker is the best.<br /><strong>Nacho Monreal</strong> (Osasuna) Performance helped keep Osasuna afloat to #9.<br /><strong>Gerard Piqué</strong> (Barçalona) When things are good with Shakira, he stops it all.<br /><strong>R Carvalho</strong> (R Madrid) His arrival improved Madrid’s defensive consistency.<br /><strong>Dani Alves</strong> (Barçalona) Hate the theatrics, but he’s La Liga’s best right-back.<br /><strong>Mesut Özil</strong> (R Madrid) You want someone to create chances. This is your guy.<br /><strong>S Busquets</strong> (Barçalona) A top holding midfielder & now world’s best supervillain.<br /><strong>Xabi Prieto</strong> (R Sociedad) Only Messi, Özil, and Alves had more assists than Prieto.<br /><strong>Ronaldo</strong> (R Madrid) Really…40 goals in La Liga and he’s not the world’s best?<br /><strong>Lionel Messi</strong> (Barçalona) Correct, Messi is the consensus best player in the world.<br /><strong>Soldado</strong> (Valencia) Agüero & Negredo scored more, but Soldado won more.</p>
<p>Substitutes: Sergio Agüero (A Madrid), Giuseppe Rossi (Villarreal), Andrés Iniesta (Barçalona), Xavi (Barçalona), Pepe (R Madrid), Marcello (R Madrid), Victor Valdés (Barçalona)</p>
<p> <strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Pichichi</span></strong></p>
<p>Cristiano Ronaldo may not have won the FIFA World Player of the Year and Real Madrid did not win the league or the Champions League. However, if Ronaldo isn’t considered the best player on the planet, he certainly is the world’s best scorer. This year felt like one where he’d go on a tear in La Liga like we’ve never seen before. And, boy did he, not only winning the Pichichi, but beating La Liga’s all-time single season scoring record with 40 goals. Preseason Pichichi prediction? Ronaldo.</p>
<p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">La Liga’s Revelation</span></strong></p>
<p>This is kind of a hard thing to judge this year because there was no one standout revelation but a groundswell of youthful talent everywhere. If I had to choose someone it would be keeper of David de Gea of Atlético Madrid. It’s going to be hard for Atlético to hold on to him. France’s Antoine Griezmann (Real Sociedad) would be my runner-up. Also, Mateo Musacchio (Villarreal) played a major part in them getting back to the Champions League.</p>
<p>For kicks, Spain does play its youth. Other Spanish U-23 players that made an impact this year are Alberto Botia (Sporting Gijón), Mikel San Jose (Athletic Bilbao), Jordi Alba (Valencia), Thiago (Barcelona), Raul Baena (Espanyol), Ander Herrera (Zaragoza), Daniel Parejo (Getafe), Adrian Lopez (Deportivo), Iker Muniain (Athletic Bilbao), Emilio Nsue (Mallorca), Bojan Krkic (Barcelona), Andreu Fontas (Barcelona), Alvaro Dominguez (Atletico Madrid), and Sergi Busquets (Barcelona).</p>
<p> <em>Stephen Kuzner is a Baltimore-based Blogger for WorldFootballDaily.com who specializes in La Liga. You can reach him on Facebook at facebook.com/BarcaBlogger or Twitter at @twitter.com/BarcaBlogger.</em></p>
By Stephen Kuzner, WFD La Liga Blogger
2011-05-23T02:29:00Z
He played with Pele
Rafa
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/He-played-with-Pele/427818391983543831.html
2011-05-20T15:14:00Z
2011-05-20T15:14:00Z
<br />Shep Messing was one of the highest paid American Soccer players in the 70's. Now, he wasn't on the pay of Pele and that lot, but definitely a New York Cosmos and North American Soccer League legend.<br /><br />He also currently commentates for the New York Red Bulls these days.<br />
Rafa
2011-05-20T15:14:00Z
Wolves need to control their own destiny
Will
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Wolves-need-to-control-their-own-destiny/760703670408509182.html
2011-05-19T11:28:00Z
2011-05-19T11:28:00Z
Mick McCarthy knows Wolves face a must-win game this weekend if they want to ensure they avoid relegation from the Premier League.<br /> <br />After a long and tightly fought campaign it has come down to five teams battling to avoid dropping out of the Premier League on the final day of the season.<br /> <br />Wolves have done themselves a massive favour in their battle to avoid Premier League relegation by recording back-to-back wins over West Brom and Sunderland, meaning they have climbed out of the bottom three but are only safe by one point. The <a href="http://betting.betfred.com/category/sport-betting-news/football-betting/">Premier League best odds</a> show they still have some work to do.<br /> <br />They face Blackburn, who are only a place ahead of them and level on points, at Molineux on the final day of the season knowing a victory would assure they retain their top flight status.<br /> <br />A draw or loss means they need to rely on results from elsewhere going in their favour, as Wigan Blackpool and Birmingham are all capable of leapfrogging them if they get three points.<br /> <br />McCarthy has seen a lot during his years in management and even he admits there are "so many permutations" in the Premier League relegation battle and Wolves need to be careful as they are facing a side who are also desperate for three points.<br /> <br />The manager stated: "Let's take care of our game, that's what I keep saying. If we do that, then no one can do anything about it. We've just got to win our game.<br /> <br />"Our game has turned out to be the crucial one. Ours is a winner-takes-all game and the others are must-wins for the teams involved at the bottom."<br /> <br />What could go in Wolves' favour is the fact that Premier League relegation rivals Blackpool and Birmingham face daunting trips to Manchester United and Spurs on the final day of the season. Anyone following the <a href="http://betting.betfred.com/713/sport-betting-news/football-betting/phillips-backs-mcleish-regardless/">football betting</a> will know how tough these games will be.<br /> <br />Both teams are capable of pulling off a shock however, while Wigan could beat Stoke, which ensures Wolves need to go for all three points to ensure they are the masters of their own destiny and avoid Premier league relegation.
Will
2011-05-19T11:28:00Z
Heating up Portugal
Rafa
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Heating-up-Portugal/-640401231993870871.html
2011-05-19T00:29:00Z
2011-05-19T00:29:00Z
<br />Yea, I know. Benfica isn't exactly Porto or Braga, but in honor of the all-Portuguese Europa League Final, I felt it necessary to complete our coverage of this event by bringing it around full circle and introducing you to Romanella Amato... who is the girlfriend of Benfica Striker Javier Saviola.<br /><br /><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/SaviolayNovia.jpg" alt="Romanella Amato" /><br /><br />Now we gotta tip our caps to the Argentine goal scorer who started dating the young Romanella at the tender age of 16 (he was 26). Score. Now I don't condone this type of thing, but well... uhh... moving on.<br /><br /><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Romanella1.jpg" alt="Romanella Amato" width="300" height="406" /><br /><br />Yup! Life in Buenos Aires is muy bueno mi amigo. Not only did she start dating Javier at a young age, but this model started her modeling career at age 14! (Now I'm just not even going to comment on that. Just look at the picture again.) So this young lady will have a lot more photos for us in the years to come.<br /><br /><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/RomanellaAmato2.jpg" alt="Romanella Amato" width="299" height="426" /><br /><br />Javier has had a decent career with clubs like Barcelona and Real Madrid before ending up in Portugal with Benfica. He has 11 goals in his senior career for Argentina, but only 19 total goals for Benfica since he arrived. <br /><br /><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/RomanellaAmato4.jpg" alt="Romanella Amato" /><br /><br />Perhaps this distracts him a bit. It would distract me. This last picture is definitely NSFW boys... then again, it may not be safe for your girlfriends, wives or children either. But there you go. It isn't hardcore porn.<br /><br />I warned you.<br /><br /><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/romanellaamato3.jpg" alt="Romanella Amato" /><br />
Rafa
2011-05-19T00:29:00Z
Discouraging the flop in MLS
Cody Worsham
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Discouraging-the-flop-in-MLS/-626431311603517013.html
2011-05-18T17:16:00Z
2011-05-18T17:16:00Z
<p>In the good name of earnestness, let me start by airing my biases: I am a San Jose Earthquakes fan.</p>
<p>Though I am not, nor have I ever been (excepting a trip to Santa Cruz for a friend’s wedding) remotely connected to the Quakes by geographical proximity – or any other sort of tangible connection, for that matter – I’ve followed the franchise quite closely for the last three seasons, from the funky stench of the league’s cellar to the sweet aroma of a 3-2 aggregate victory over the Red Bulls last November. </p>
<p>I don’t know why I started following the Quakes. Perhaps it was some sort of translocative, vicarious manner of escaping soccer doldrums of sans-MLS Louisiana, a polar attraction to a landscape so unlike flat, hot, nasty bayous for beautiful beaches. Maybe it’s because my favorite color is blue, or Frank Yallop’s accent intrigues me.</p>
<p>Regardless, when I made the commitment to follow MLS, I hopped on the Earthquake bandwagon, and I’ve ridden it proudly to where I am today.</p>
<p>So when I saw Brandon McDonald red-carded Saturday night for an apparent elbow to the throat of Columbus’ Tom Heinemann and watched the latter do his best Sergio Busquets-face-grabbing impersonation, perhaps my skepticism as to the justification of a straight red card was based on a skewed support for the Earthquakes.</p>
<p>Then I watched the replay.</p>
<p>I won’t deny that McDonald brings his left arm back to clear Heinemann’s grip on his back. I will, however, question why Heinemann needed at least two seconds to react to the “blow,” or why its impact to his core resulted in painful sensations in his throat and face. For an athlete playing at the highest level of a sport so dependent on quick-twitch muscle movement, I’m concerned that Heinemann’s central nervous system isn’t up to snuff.</p>
<p>Sarcasm aside, Heinemann cheated. He not only took a dive, but embellished the repercussions of the collision in a direct attempt to get a player sent off. Brandon McDonald has appealed his suspension, and, as objectively as I can, I believe his ban should be transferred to Heinemann.</p>
<p>Moreover, for the sake of the development of the sport in this country, I believe MLS should use this as an introduction to policy banning player embellishment and actively punishing instances of such behavior.</p>
<p>Anyone who watched the most recent series of El Classico matches understands what diving, flopping, and embellishment does to a game. Barcelona, who play the most beautiful football in the world, disgraced themselves with play-acting and childish foppery, denigrating the world’s greatest footballing rivalry to a series of tantrums and fit-throwing.</p>
<p>Maybe that passes in Spain. Geert Hofstede’s Cultural Dimensions show Spain have far lower levels of masculinity than the United States, so perhaps that decrease of assertiveness and competitiveness broaden the cultural gap between footballers’ actions on the field.</p>
<p>Regardless, the greatest knock against the world’s beautiful game is the flopping and the diving prevalent in the sport. I can’t tell you how many friends I have whose budding interests in the game were stomped out by a player deceitfully rolling around on the pitch, clutching his untouched face like he got the Harvey Dent treatment.</p>
<p>MLS, the U.S. Soccer Federation, and the everyday American soccer fan must do everything it can to prevent this type of behavior from cross the Atlantic and making itself commonplace in MLS.</p>
<p>There are several ways this end can be achieved. First, the league must form a review board whose only job is to crack down on flopping. Let me distinguish here between diving and flopping. Diving is feeling contact and going down to earn the foul. Once down, however, the player no longer sells the foul. This is an unfortunate, but unavoidable part of the game. How does one, after all, judge what is sufficient contact to warrant a fall? Take Luke Rodgers’ earned PK against Heath Pearce this weekend for example. There was certainly contact, but Rodgers certainly fell easily, and MLS has no business determining if Rodgers should have stayed on his feet, nor can it be expected to.</p>
<p>Flopping, on the other hand, is either 1) falling without any contact; 2) falling with contact and lying about the degree and location of the impact; or 3) a combination of 1) and 2). It is a much clearer, and much more detrimental, form of deceit than diving.</p>
<p>To combat flopping, the MLS should establish a review board consisting entirely of former professional players, preferably 5 or 7, who respond to complaints like McDonald’s by reviewing the film. Similar to NFL reviews, if the evidence of flopping is conclusive enough for a majority of the review board to overturn the ruling, the fouler is not only exonerated from guilt and suspension, but the flopper is suspended for three games and fined.</p>
<p>MLS should also consider in-game propositions to curb flopping. For example, any player stretchered off the pitch, as Dani Alves was for Pepe’s red card, should not be able to re-enter the game. I also wouldn’t mind seeing teams play shorthanded the game after a player has flopped to further discourage the practice.</p>
<p>Fans and media can also help put a stop to it. Public derision has proven to be an extremely effective way of curtailing ridiculous behavior — just ask Charlie Sheen.</p>
<p>Maybe my proposed measurements are extreme. Flopping is very subjective, and trying to legislate against subjectivity is like trying to catch a fish with bare hands. But if MLS’s goal is to become a major sporting league in this country, it’s going to have to provide an honest product to fans and hold its players accountable to a higher standard.</p>
<p>There are many things the MLS can learn from Europe’s top leagues to improve itself. How to gain an advantage through flopping, however, isn’t one of them, and America would do well to redefine the game in its own way by putting a stop to it.</p>
<p> </p>
Cody Worsham
2011-05-18T17:16:00Z
Spurs and Birmingham await tense clash
Will
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Spurs-and-Birmingham-await-tense-clash/732997209219470990.html
2011-05-18T10:01:00Z
2011-05-18T10:01:00Z
No section of supporters will be tenser on the nerve-wracking final day of the season than the Birmingham City fans that travel to White Hart Lane. Wigan Athletic and Blackpool are in the bottom three and will view survival as a great escape, but Blues followers thought their team to be safe before they picked up one point from the last 15 available.<br /><br />Much time will be spent listening for updates from Old Trafford and the Britannia Stadium, where Wigan and Blackpool face away trips that for varying reasons are less arduous than they might have been and the <a href="http://news.ladbrokes.com/en-gb/football/premier-league/premier-league-betting.html">Premier League betting odds</a> reflect this.<br /><br />Birmingham, Blackpool and Wigan are locked together on 39 points, with respective goal differences of –20, -21 and -22. Blues fans know both their rivals can lose but still send City down if a heavy defeat is suffered at Spurs, and the danger of happening is significant.<br /><br />The Blues have won twice away all season, at Blackpool and West Ham United, whilst Spurs have lost once at home, to Wigan. That shock result gives Birmingham hope, typifying as is does the struggles Tottenham have had at home against lowly opposition.<br /><br />Since Birmingham first appeared in the Premier League in 2002/03, Spurs have won five of the six league matches at White Hart Lane, a 3-2 City victory in 2007/08 being something of a freak result, a match that Spurs should have won considering their dominance. <br /><br />Tottenham have scored 13 goals in those six clashes, so Birmingham must fear the possibility of suffering <a href="http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport">a worse result than both Blackpool and Wigan</a>, especially as they have scored fewer goals than their rivals, which will decide positions if goal difference is the same.<br /><br />Spurs and Birmingham are two of the division's draw specialists, experiencing stalemates 19 times between them this term. Blues fans would be delighted with another draw, but the team's respective performances last weekend suggests they will be hoping for favours from Manchester United and Stoke.
Will
2011-05-18T10:01:00Z
Adam's Barclays Premier League Roundup
Adam Johnson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Adams-Barclays-Premier-League-Roundup/-250663688233664779.html
2011-05-18T06:20:00Z
2011-05-18T06:20:00Z
<span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Barclays Premier League & FA Cup Final Recap (May 14-17)</strong></span><br />
<p><strong>Blackburn 1-1 Manchester United</strong></p>
<p>Well all they needed was a point and that’s what they got. Wayne Rooney scored on a penalty in the 72<sup>nd</sup> minute to equal Brett Emerton’s first half goal. Blackburn looked quite good in this game but it was always going to be Manchester United’s day. Title 19 all wrapped up.</p>
<p><strong>Blackpool 4-3 Bolton</strong></p>
<p>Bolton was safe in the middle table but the team they were visiting was anything but. This game would prove to be a thriller at Bloomfield Road. Kevin Davies scored the opener for Bolton before DJ Campbell came right back to level the match for Blackpool. Then after some nice movement Jason Puncheon gave Blackpool the lead but this time it was Bolton’s turn to score as Matt Taylor tied it. Still before halftime, Charlie Adam picked out DJ Campbell for another goal, 3-2 Blackpool. In the second half, Danny Sturridge made it 3-3 when he headed home from a Chung Yung Lee cross. But of course, the scoring wasn’t over and Charlie Adam led a great counter attack that led to him getting the winner and keeping Blackpool alive for now.</p>
<p><strong>Sunderland 1-3 Wolves</strong></p>
<p>Wolves were yet another team desperately in need of three points and they would get it while netting three goals. The first came from Joey Craddock on a volley but Sunderland would score to make it 1-1 through Sessegnon. Steven Fletcher gave Wolves the lead again before Elokobi sealed the win with a gaol of his own. </p>
<p><strong>West Brom 1-0 Everton</strong></p>
<p>With both of these teams easily safe, it was just a battle of positioning at the Hawthornes. Yusef Mulumbu got the only goal West Brom needed for the win.</p>
<p><strong>Manchester City 1-0 Stoke- FA Cup Final</strong></p>
<p>Well it was a Blue Moon Rising at Wembley. Man City has finally done, after 35 years they have won a trophy. They came out strong and looked like the best team for most of the 90 minutes. A Yaya Toure second half goal was all they needed to claim the prize. It was a total team effort and even Mario Balotelli even played for the badge. Stoke never looked ready for the occasion and City took advantage. City fans don’t care that United won the title earlier in the day because this is their trophy and they went through their red counterparts to get it.</p>
<p><strong>Chelsea 2-2 Newcastle</strong></p>
<p>The Blues were ever so close to charging in and winning the title and we know how that went last week. They were ever so close to finishing their home season with a win, but just as the commentator said, Chelsea was just not quite good enough. Ivanovic got them off to a great start, scoring from a set piece but Newcastle would equalize just eight minutes later through a Jonas Guttierez deflection. Chelsea took the lead through an Alex header in the 83<sup>rd</sup> but again just seven minutes later Newcastle tied it, this time it was Steven Taylor. It was a good point for Newcastle and it should keep Chelsea in second place.</p>
<p><strong>Birmingham 0-2 Fulham</strong></p>
<p>A somewhat meaningless game in Birmingham saw Fulham secure a top half finish with a 2-0 win. Brede Hangeland got the both goals for the London club.</p>
<p><strong>Liverpool 0-2 Tottenham </strong></p>
<p>Conventional wisdom said that based on the form of these two teams, Liverpool would throttle Tottenham. Conventional wisdom and it being wrong is why we love sports. Spurs came out ready and Liverpool seemed surprised by that. Rafa van der Vaart hit a beautiful shot that gave Spurs the lead and Liverpool just couldn’t find the net. Tottenham then were given a controversial penalty that Luka Modric converted. It was 2-0 and it would stay that way as Tottenham would leap frog Liverpool for 5<sup>th</sup> place.</p>
<p><strong>Arsenal 1-2 Aston Villa</strong></p>
<p>Oh ya, Arsenal lost again. Darren Bent gave Villa the lead and then doubled it within the first 15 minutes. Marouane Chamakh had a goal disallowed but Robin van Persie got one back but that was it as the Emirates faithful booed the team off the pitch as the game ended.</p>
<p><strong>Wigan 3-2 West Ham</strong></p>
<p>With both of these teams sitting in the relegation zone, each club badly needed a win. Demba Ba got the desperate Hammers off to a good start when he headed home for 1-0 and then again for 2-0. West Ham looked like they were going to get it done until Wigan started peppering the away side’s goal. Finally, in the second half it was a Charles N’Zogbia free kick that got WIgan on the board before they eventually equalized through Sammon to make it 2-2. Both teams were obviously going for it and with the game on a knife’s edge it was Charles N’Zogbia who would score again and officially send West Ham to the Championship.</p>
<p><strong>Manchester City 3-0 Stoke</strong></p>
<p>The teams that met for the FA Cup on Saturday met in the league on Tuesday. Man City took the lead through a world class goal where he weaved between Stoke defenders before burying his shot into the top left corner. Stoke again looked outclassed and Joleon Lescott doubled the lead with a header from and Adam Johnson free kick. All City needed to pass Arsenal for third in the league was three points and they locked that up with a third goal, Carlos Tevez again, this time on a brilliant free kick. Not a bad three days for Man City.</p>
The penultimate weekend in the English football season was a wild one and saw teams that needed to win do so and saw two Manchester clubs claim major prizes. United are champions of the league and congratulations to them on that. Arsenal has fallen so far and Robin van Persie seems to be the only guy who tries to do anything about it. There were plenty of relegation questions left to be answered and next weekend by about 1:00 EST we will all know exactly where every team has finished. I can’t wait.
Adam Johnson
2011-05-18T06:20:00Z
World's Best Footballer Argument Continues
By Stephen Kuzner, WFD La Liga Blogger
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Worlds-Best-Footballer-Argument-Continues/965223183297770938.html
2011-05-16T01:52:00Z
2011-05-16T01:52:00Z
<p>The penultimate week of La Liga saw all the matches played at the same time. Thank goodness for ESPN3/360 or a bar. Next week should be great. This is what you need to know. All the Champions League and Europa League slots are finalized. In terms of relegation, Hercules and Almeria are done for, but six other teams can fall into that third drop spot: Mallorca (44), Sociedad (44), Osasuna (44), Getafe (43), Deportivo (43), Zaragoza (42). I’m not going to do the math for you, but this makes a mighty good bit of drama for the last week. Half the matches will directly affect relegation. It’s probably safe to say that the Pichichi belongs to Ronaldo, but tying the La Liga recourd at 38 goals this week, makes Madrid’s matchup with Almeria next week another game with something at stake: La Liga single season scoring record. If he gets it, I say this swings open the greatest player in the world debate with him and Messi. Six games with major ramifications all to be played at the same time. Awh man!</p>
<p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Scores</span></strong></p>
<p><strong>Valencia</strong> <span style="text-decoration: underline;">0-0</span> <strong>Levante </strong>| Nasty.<strong><br /></strong><strong>Almeria</strong> <span style="text-decoration: underline;">3-1</span> <strong>Mallorca </strong>| Uche (5'), Ortiz (15'), Piatti (32'), Webo (42')<br /><strong>Getafe</strong> <span style="text-decoration: underline;">1-0</span> <strong>Osasuna </strong>| Flano (og65')<br /><strong>R Zaragoza</strong> <span style="text-decoration: underline;">1-0</span> <strong>Espanyol </strong>| Ponzio (55')<br /><strong>Sporting</strong> <span style="text-decoration: underline;">2-1</span> <strong>Racing </strong>| de las Cuevas (45'), Novo (51'), Fernandez (32')<br /><strong>Sevilla</strong> <span style="text-decoration: underline;">3-1</span> <strong>R Sociedad </strong>| Kanoute (54') & (60'), Negredo (85'), Agirretxe (72')<br /><strong>A Bilbao</strong> <span style="text-decoration: underline;">1-1</span> <strong>Málaga </strong>| Lopez (p55'), Recio (42')<br /><strong>Atlético</strong> <span style="text-decoration: underline;">2-1</span> <strong>Hercules |</strong> Soto (2'), Reyes (71'), Trezeguet (67')<br /><strong>Barcelona</strong> <span style="text-decoration: underline;">0-0</span> <strong>Deportivo </strong>| This is not a typo.<br /><strong>Villarreal</strong> <span style="text-decoration: underline;">1-2</span> <strong>Real Madrid </strong>| Cani (51'), Marcelo (17), Ronaldo (22)</p>
<p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Table</span></strong></p>
<p>1. <strong>Barçalona</strong> (93) | Barça B finished 5<sup>th</sup> in the Segunda. We saw why this week.<br />2. <strong>Real Madrid</strong> (89) | Pichichi is not enough. Ronaldo wants the record for himself.<br />3. <strong>Valencia</strong> (68) | Next week is now meaningless. 3<sup>rd</sup> spot wrapped-up.<br />4. <strong>Villarreal</strong> (62) | Time to play some of that Villarreal B next week.<br />5. <strong>Sevilla</strong> (55) | King Kanoute’s brace opens the Europa automatic bid race.<br />6. <strong>A Bilbao</strong> (55) | The automatic Europa league spots will go down the bitter end.<br />7. <strong>Atlético</strong> (55) | A predictable win at home against Hercules? Yes.<br />8. <strong>Espanyol</strong> (49) | Not much to play for but fun and experience.<br />9. <strong>Málaga</strong> (46) | Málaga draw at Bilbao is another strong result.<br />10. <strong>S. Gijón</strong> (46) | Gijón is safe!<br />11. <strong>Santander</strong> (46) | Did they help Sporing Gijón?. Nawh?<br />12. <strong>Levante</strong> (45) | Are they safe? I can’t do that much math. Wait they are safe.<br />13. <strong>Mallorca</strong> (44) | Loss at Almeria puts them in the relegation race.<br />14. <strong>Sociedad</strong> (44) | A result at Sevilla may have meant safety.<br />15. <strong>Osasuna</strong> (44) | Loss at Getafe keeps them in the relegation hunt.<br />16. <strong>Getafe</strong> (43) | Critical win over Osasuna breaths life into survival.<br />17. <strong>Deportivo</strong> (43) | Normal a point at Barçalona is good, but Depor is in dire straits.<br />18. <strong>Zaragoza</strong> (42) | A win at Levante in week 38 and Zaragoza lives.<br />19. <strong>Hercules</strong> (34) | At least they made it interesting at Atlético.<br />20. <strong>Almeria</strong> (30) | Great showing at home before relegation and roster pillaging.</p>
<p><em>Stephen Kuzner is a Baltimore-based Blogger for WorldFootballDaily.com who specializes in La Liga. You can reach him on Facebook at facebook.com/BarcaBlogger or Twitter at @twitter.com/BarcaBlogger.</em></p>
By Stephen Kuzner, WFD La Liga Blogger
2011-05-16T01:52:00Z
54 and Coutning...
Sandy Thin
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/54-and-Coutning.../554222400099330306.html
2011-05-15T17:51:00Z
2011-05-15T17:51:00Z
<p>Rangers only needed a win at Kilmarnock to seal their 54th Scottish League win in a week in which once again Scottish football was filling the papers for all the wrong reasons. Celtic's small hope of a Rangers slip-up was dashed almost instantly after kick off at Rugby Park as the Gers went 3-0 up within seven minutes.</p>
<p>Walter Smith remained composed despite the dream start, forcing his side to remain focused on the task at hand and that they did, keeping the score at 3-0 until half time before increasing their lead to five shortly after half time. Kyle Lafferty took home the match ball after topping off an incredible end to the season with a well deserved hatrick. The other two goals came from Naismith and Jelavic who have also enjoyed good form in the later months of the season. Kilmarnock got a consolation goal from a deflected shot from James Deyton to lessen the embarrassment slightly.</p>
<p>Since their League Cup victory over Celtic, which followed several big losses to their fierce rivals, Rangers seemed to find their form and with it their confidence. You have to go back some six matches to find the last time they conceded a goal, scoring a mere twenty-two goals in those games, critics may say that the competition in the SPL isn't quite up to scratch but it is hard to argue with those stats no matter the competition.</p>
<p>The crowd at Celtic Park realised early on that it was not going to be their name on the trophy this year but they were treated to a fine performance from their team, winning 4-0 against a weakened version of the Motherwell team they will face in the Scottish Cup Final at Hampden next week. The fans were eager to show their support for their Manager Neil Lennon, who was greeted on to the pitch by a standing ovation from the supporters, following his experience on Wednesday night when a fan at Tynecastle ran on to the pitch and attacked him mid-match.</p>
<p>Lennon has been the subject to racial abuse and attack throughout the season and this incident was nothing if not lucky. The fan was stopped before he could get anything more than a punch on the Irishman but had he been carrying a weapon, which is more than possible, the consequences could have been far more severe. He believes that he has been subjected to the attacks and threats purely for being a Roman Catholic constantly in the public eye. This fan is due to be seen in Edinburgh's Sheriff Court later this week to face the verdict of the judge and jury. Two other men will also appear in court later in the week in relation to the parcel bombs sent to Lennon last month.</p>
<p>In his post-match interview, the 39 year-old remained defiant saying that he will not be scared out of his job by these people. He had a positive outlook on next week's Cup Final saying that he "came to Celtic to win silverware, and that's what he intends to do next weekend". Also stating categorically that "this was not the end for Celtic, but the beginning".</p>
<p>For the third time in four years, the title has remained undecided in Scotland until the last day of the season, which is not something that can be said for many leagues. Even the relegation battle was not concluded until Wednesday night following their 1-0 defeat to St Johnstone. Hearts took the third European spot despite a 2-1 loss to 4th placed Dundee Utd who look to challenge them again for it next season.</p>
<p>Next Saturday brings the Scottish Cup Final between Celtic and Motherwell, which will hopefully be slightly closer than the match this weekend with both teams looking to have something to show for their seasons.</p>
<p> </p>
Sandy Thin
2011-05-15T17:51:00Z
The Battle for Italia's Last Champions League Spot
Serie A Weekly.com - Walker
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/The-Battle-for-Italias-Last-Champions-League-Spot/48440505038555338.html
2011-05-13T23:46:00Z
2011-05-13T23:46:00Z
<p>Serie A Weekly - Frank Tigani</p>
<p>This season's Scudetto race has been one of the more exciting ones in recent history. Ever since Calciopoli, Inter have strolled to league success year after year without much competition from their down and out rivals. But, this year, things changed dramatically and it has been for the better.</p>
<p>Lazio, most unexpectedly, took the league by storm in the early rounds of the season as they catapulted themselves to pole position. Juventus, after suffering more than any other Italian club following the 2006 scandal, put themselves in a good position to challenge for the title before they self-destructed in the second half of the season. Like Lazio, Napoli also surprised many with their good form that, only until recently, saw them as creditable title contenders.</p>
<p>The rise of Lazio and Napoli has made for an interesting Scudetto race. In addition to the rise of these at one time powers of the Italian game, Inter re-emerged in the second half of the season to become the biggest threat to a team that, above the rest, has re-established itself as a force on the Italian domestic front, Milan. Last weekend the Rossoneri wrapped up the title after their draw in the Stadio Olimpico.</p>
<p>Just as the race for top spot has proven to be an exciting affair, now, so too is the race for fourth spot.</p>
<p>With just two rounds remaining there are still three clubs aiming to claim the coveted final place for next season's champion's league. As it stands, Udinese are in the best position to claim the spot as they already occupy fourth two points ahead of both Lazio and Rome who are equal with sixty points. Up until the last round of fixtures, Juventus were still entertaining hopes of Champions League football next term, however, the failure to beat Chievo on Monday night effectively spelt the end of their dreams.</p>
<p>The pressure on the clubs chasing fourth spot in order to guarantee Champions League football has evidently shown in their somewhat inconsistent results in recent weeks.</p>
<p>Early season pace setters Lazio have lost three in a row including a crucial lost to rivals Udinese last weekend. Despite their crucial win over Edy Reja's men, the Zebrette have been largely inconsistent also with just two wins in their last six matches. Roma are the most in form team of the three clubs as they have lost just once in their last six matches and have now gone three matches without defeat.</p>
<p>Before their draw against the Flying Donkey's on Monday when Juventus who were still in with a chance of claiming fourth spot, the Turin giants boasted the most impressive run of results having not being defeated in seven matches running. After their draw against Chievo, this run has extended to eight matches.</p>
<p>For the Serie A, this season's battle for fourth spot will be the last in the foreseeable future as from next year on it will be the Bundesliga that is granted four spots for the Champions League. Italy will only be awarded three.</p>
<p>But, not only for this reason is this season's battle for fourth spot most intriguing. As Italian football continues in its attempt to reassert itself as a power on the continent two clubs, in particular, are pushing hard to be at the forefront of such a resurgence.</p>
<p>Traditional Italian heavyweight Juventus is a club desperate to reclaim its former status at the summit of the Italian game. Ever since being humiliatingly relegated to Serie B as punishment for their role in Calciopoli, the Old Lady has struggled in its bid to rebuild itself and its image.</p>
<p>This season has proven to be no different. Despite an impressive first half of the season, Luigi Del Neri's side have self-destructed since the New Year and now the club is effectively out of the race for Champions League football.</p>
<p>With a new stadium to be ready for next year, the Old Lady is doing some things right. However, now that the club will play another season in the Europa League, again, will the club struggle to lure the big names that it needs.</p>
<p>The one club, however, that would be the biggest loser if it failed to claim fourth spot would be AS Roma. The past month has seen the club taken over by American business tycoon Thomas Di Benedetto. The new owner has promised to make Roma great again by bringing major changes to the club in the form of its youth development, a new stadium and new players.</p>
<p>By securing fourth spot the club would be able to attract a higher calibre of players and for Roma and Italian football alike, this would be beneficial.</p>
<p>But, eternal rivals Lazio along with Udinese threaten the hopes of the Giallorossi. Despite their paper thin squads, the Biancocelesti and the Zebrette have been magnificent at times this season. Indeed, the latter has played some of the best football on the peninsula.</p>
<p>While the achievements of Lazio and Udinese are to be commended, both clubs' lack the ambition of Roma, and Juventus for that matter, and for this reason, for Calcio, it would be best if Roma finished fourth.</p>
<p>Of course, this is not to say that Lazio and Udinese would be undeserving of playing Champions League football next season. On the contrary, the two clubs have outdone even their own expectations with their limited squads and perhaps in a way deserve fourth spot more than their more illustrious rivals.</p>
<p>However, looking at the bigger picture, it seems that either Roma stand to gain the most from qualifying for the Champions League. What is their gain would be Calcio's gain also and for a competition trying to reclaim its status amongst the powers of Europe it is best that they claim the last fourth placed Champions League qualifying spot for Serie A.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><em>Frank Tigani is a writer for Italian Football Website, Serie A Weekly.com. He is also the creator of acmilanblog.net and is a editor for the Canadian Soccer Magazine publication, 11 Players. Originally from Australia, Frank covered Australian football and Australia's World Cup campaign during the 2010 South Africa FIFA World Cup for, just-football.com.</em><br /><br /><br /><br /></p>
<div style="text-align: center;">You can read more from Frank Tigani on the pages of <a href="http://www.serieaweekly.com/" target="_blank">SerieAWeekly.com</a> and <a rel="nofollow" href="http://twitter.com/serieaweekly" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.serieaweekly.com/images/followmeontwitter.gif" border="0" alt="twitter link" width="160" height="27" /></a></div>
<img src="https://www.worldfootballdaily.com/images/clearimage.gif" border="0" alt="" width="1" height="35" />
Serie A Weekly.com - Walker
2011-05-13T23:46:00Z
Cole's Liverpool nightmare continues
Will
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Coles-Liverpool-nightmare-continues/-421851163555717523.html
2011-05-13T09:38:00Z
2011-05-13T09:38:00Z
Not so long ago Joe Cole was being talked up as being "like a god" in Liverpool by a man who knows more than any other what the average Liverpool fan is thinking, Jamie Carragher. Yes, that's right, it seems difficult to believe now after a season during which Cole has been, to put it politely, anonymous, but Carragher made that remark after the midfielder was shown a red card way back in August when the Reds took on Arsenal in their first league fixture of the season.<br /><br />Fast forward not even the duration of a calendar year, however, and nobody's talking about the ex-Chelsea man anymore, that's for sure. With the move previously looking in theory like the perfect one for all involved, with the player clearly not getting the chances he desired at Chelsea but nevertheless at the right age to make a high-profile move to a club without the money running through it that the Blues possess, it seemed as if Liverpool were getting a good deal in bringing in the midfielder. Those following the <a href="http://betting.stanjames.com/Football-Betting-News">Premier League betting offers</a> certainly thought so.<br /><br />Injury problems certainly haven't helped matters, but with Cole reduced to cameo appearances since the arrival of Kenny Dalglish, it wouldn't be too much of a shock if he decided to move on this summer to take on a new challenge that could rejuvenate his flagging career, particularly with Dalglish appearing to be keen on bringing through young talent from the Liverpool youth ranks rather than relying upon the stars of the past. The side are increasingly looking like <a href="http://betting.stanjames.com/Football-Betting-News/2011-05-13/Steven-Gerrard-Liverpool-Premier-League-football">Premier League best bets</a>, and Cole doesn't seem to be part of the plan.<br /><br />Should Cole opt for pastures new, there will certainly be clubs interested in asking after a price for him, with Premier League newcomers QPR thought to be one of them. Whether or not Cole can cope well enough with the psychological results of dropping from a club pushing for league glory (if you listen to Steven Gerrard) to one likely to end up battling for league survival does, however, remain to be seen.<br />
Will
2011-05-13T09:38:00Z
In Safe hands with Brazil's No.1
Rafa
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/In-Safe-hands-with-Brazils-No.1/-476653797732020582.html
2011-05-12T00:35:00Z
2011-05-12T00:35:00Z
<br />So you probably saw that I posted this picture in the Photo of the Day section in honor of the Inter Milan vs AS Roma clash today in Coppa Italia. There were a couple of smokin' hot ladies who are either dating, married, or at least hooked up with footballers from both team, yes I know, but Wesley Sneijder's woman will be saved for a rainy day (or just a boring day during the summer silly season).<br /><br />Oh, and yea I know I could have used Shakira. But like I said in my POTD posting, Pique had a shite game and practically gave up the equalizing goal in the game today, so I don't think Shakira would approve.<br /><br />Although now I am wondering about the kind of ladies the magisterial Messi can pull? hmmm. <br /><br />Ok, back on track. Here is Susana showing her support for her husband like a good wife should.<br /><br /><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/SusanaBrasil.jpg" alt="Susana Werner" width="258" height="386" /><br /><br />Now that is a site I'd love to see if I were the Brazilian Keeper coming home after holding a clean-sheet in some major international match for my country. I mean seriously, who wouldn't want their model/actress wife or girlfriend waiting at home for them in just your work top, nothing else. That's heaven I tell ya.<br /><br />I wont dance around the fact that my most recent blog postings have been really stretching the boundaries a bit, pushing the envelope as you will. I have been walking the fine line between upstanding journalistic reporting and downright dirty tabloid fodder. But who cares. The male audience of this site will greatly appreciate this and even the female audience (yes, we have it) will have to admit these women are gorgeous.<br /><br />Before I drop this next bit of juicy info on you, I should warn you that it's a bit scandalous. <br /><br />When Susana was younger (and still impressionable shall we say), she actually dated the original Ronaldo (old Ronaldo) before he made an ass out of himself with that whole tranny thing. Obviously we all have our skeletons in the closet and we all have a history of some sort, but it makes you wonder if JC has ever been accidentally called Ronnie in the bedroom?<br /><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/RonaldoSusana.jpg" alt="Susana and Ronaldo" width="350" height="350" /><br /><br />The Brazilian model/actress is now happily married to Julio Cesar with two lovely children. Hard not to be happy when you got a girl like this. And I'm sure he plays his best just for her! hahaha.<br /><br />Anyways, here is the loving couple below.<br /><br /><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/JulioSusana.jpg" alt="Julio and Susana" /><br />
Rafa
2011-05-12T00:35:00Z
This relegation battle is nuts.
By Stephen Kuzner, WFD La Liga Blogger
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/This-relegation-battle-is-nuts./-247819772379920555.html
2011-05-11T10:13:00Z
2011-05-11T10:13:00Z
<p>Everything is still up for grabs, but mainly relegation Hercules and Almeria are done with 10 teams now separated by 5 points (with 9 remaining) from the final relegation spot. This may be the most compelling relegation battle in La Liga for some time. Deportivo being in the drop zone is truly sad when you consider they were vying for the league only 6-7 years ago. I really can’t make a call on this battle at this point. Ronaldo netted four goals to take him two above Messi in the Pichichi race. It Barça wins or ties their next match at Levante they’ll win the La Liga title. Speaking of scoring Soldado and Júlio Baptista kept their scoring form. My prediction for next week is that they’ll each score again. In case you forgot there are games this Tuesday and Wednesday. Here’s what happened last week.</p>
<p><strong>Hercules</strong> <span style="text-decoration: underline;">2-3</span> <strong>Racing</strong> | Basterrechea 40',Gomes 43',Dos Santos 14',41',Henrique 45'<br /><strong>Valencia</strong> <span style="text-decoration: underline;">3-0</span> R <strong>Sociedad</strong> | Soldado 16',37', Jonas 25'<br /><strong>Getafe</strong> <span style="text-decoration: underline;">2-0</span> <strong>Almeria</strong> | Colunga 5', Pedro Ríos 52'<br /><strong>Sporting Gijón</strong> <span style="text-decoration: underline;">2-2</span> <strong>Deportivo</strong> | Ayoze p35', Barral p35', Adrián 9',40'<br /><strong>Athletic</strong> <span style="text-decoration: underline;">3-2</span> <strong>Levante</strong> | Toquero 30', López p47', Llorente 63', Stuani 77', Nano 85'<br /><strong>Atlético</strong> <span style="text-decoration: underline;">0-3</span> <strong>Málaga</strong> | Rondon 29', Baptista 35', Maresca 84'<br /><strong>Sevilla</strong> <span style="text-decoration: underline;">2-6</span> <strong>R Madrid</strong> | Negredo 61',84', Ramos 21',Ronaldo 31',65',70’,75',Kaká 42'<br /><strong>Mallorca</strong> <span style="text-decoration: underline;">0-0</span> <strong>Villarreal</strong> | None?<br /><strong>Barçalona</strong> <span style="text-decoration: underline;">2-0</span> <strong>Espanyol</strong> | Iniesta 29', Piqué 47'<br /><strong>R Zaragoza</strong> <span style="text-decoration: underline;">1-3</span> <strong>Osasuna</strong> | Lafita 14', Camuñas 62', Sergio 70', Sola 80'</p>
<p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Table</span></strong></p>
<p>1. <strong>Barçalona</strong> (91) 1 point gets them the title. 9 of 9 points gets the record of 100.<br />2. <strong>Real Madrid</strong> (83) It’s all about Ronaldo in the Pichichi race now.<br />3. <strong>Valencia</strong> (66) Madrid could have used Soldado against Barça in the El Clasicos.<br />4. <strong>Villarreal</strong> (61) Their UCL spot is not guaranteed because...<br />5. <span style="text-decoration: underline;">Athletic Bilbao</span> (54) Bibao keeps winning.<br />6. <span style="text-decoration: underline;">Sevilla</span> (52) Ouch! Madrid hurt! Negredo, another Madrid product doing well.<br />7. <span style="text-decoration: underline;">Atlético</span> (52) Still Europa league spot because Barça and Madrid in Copa del Ray.<br />8. Espanyol (48) Europa League is not out of question to catch Atlético.<br />9. Sporting Gijón (43) Oddly at #9 they are only 5 points from the drop zone.<br />10. Levante (43) Don’t expect any points this week from Barça?<br />11. Mallorca (43) Draw with Villarreal is a good result in a right relegation battle.<br />12. Racing Santander (43) Win pretty much relegates Herucles.<br />13. Málaga (42) Júlio Baptista scores again and Málaga wins again.<br />14. Osasuna (41) Their last two wins really opened-up the relegation battle.<br />15. Real Sociedad (41) They follow-up Barça win with Valencia loss.<br />16. Getafe (40) Almeria win was must-have and was.<br />17. R Zaragoza (39) Does loss to Osasuna mean free fall?<br />18. <strong>Deportivo</strong> (39) Draw at Gijón, usually good result, but got Depor in zone.<br />19. <strong>Hercules</strong> (33) Loss at Málaga leaves little room to avoid the drop?<br />20. <strong>Almeria</strong> (26) One more loss and they are relegated.</p>
<p><em>Stephen Kuzner is a Baltimore-based Blogger for WorldFootballDaily.com who specializes in La Liga. You can reach him on Facebook at facebook.com/BarcaBlogger or Twitter at @twitter.com/BarcaBlogger.</em></p>
By Stephen Kuzner, WFD La Liga Blogger
2011-05-11T10:13:00Z
Champions League the main objective for Barca
Guest Blogger
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Champions-League-the-main-objective-for-Barca/-474594958615712790.html
2011-05-10T15:01:00Z
2011-05-10T15:01:00Z
<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />Barcelona are looking on course to complete a prestigious double again but midfielder Sergio Busquets reckons Champions League glory would be the sweetest result.</span></span>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">The Catalan giants came through a semi-final against archrivals Real Madrid to book a meeting with Manchester United in the Champions League final at Wembley.</span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">It is the second time in three years the two clubs will compete in the showpiece event, with Lionel Messi leading Barca to victory in 2009 in Rome. Those who have placed a </span></span><strong><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://betting.betfred.com/category/sport-betting-news/football-betting/" target="_blank">Champions League bet</a> </span></span></strong><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://betting.betfred.com/category/sport-betting-news/football-betting/" target="_blank"></a> on Barca will be confident they will win the trophy.</span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Pep Guardiola's side are looking on course to wrap up the La Liga title, as they sit eight points clear of Real Madrid with three games left to play, then all their focus will go on the final and those looking at the </span></span><a href="http://betting.betfred.com/713/sport-betting-news/football-betting/fergie-reveals-youth-talent/" target="_blank"><strong><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Champions League promotions</span></span></strong></a><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"> should remember this.</span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Andres Iniesta has said he is confident a final between them and United will be a "special" game, but his midfield partner Busquets has gone one step further and reckons winning the Champions League will mean more to the players than domestic glory.</span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">"I'm confident we can win it, and bring some joy to our fans. The league is great, but it's not as prestigious as the Champions League," he stated.</span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">United boss Sir Alex Ferguson has already stated he is aiming to "find a solution" for his side to cope with the prowess of Xavi, Messi and Iniesta as it was that trio that hurt his team in Rome.</span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">The veteran manager is out for revenge and the game has all the potential to be a classic Champions League final between two very well-matched sides.</span></span></p>
Guest Blogger
2011-05-10T15:01:00Z
Adam's Barclays Premier League Roundup
Adam Johnson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Adams-Barclays-Premier-League-Roundup/483322461277222053.html
2011-05-09T23:08:00Z
2011-05-09T23:08:00Z
<p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Premier League Recap (May 7-9)</span></strong></p>
<p><strong>Everton 2-1 Man City</strong></p>
<p>Man City needed a win to all but lock up the fourth position and a Champions League spot and they looked like they would get that win as Yaya Toure put them ahead in the first half. City had chances but couldn’t make them count and then Sylvan Distin leveled the match with a low header. City always has trouble with Everton and that streak continued when Leon Osman scored with his head to win it for the home team.</p>
<p><strong><br />Aston Villa 1-1 Wigan</strong></p>
<p>Charles N’Zogbia scored for Wigan then an Ashley Young free kick for Villa got each team a point.</p>
<p><strong><br />Bolton 1-2 Sunderland</strong></p>
<p>Sunderland got a rare win away from home as these two struggling sides battle for mid-table mediocrity. Bolo Zenden got the opener for Sunderland as they looked the better side until Ivan Klasnic scored a late goal to tie it for Bolton. Then as Bolton were going for the win, Sunderland came back and got a goal when Sulley Muntari played it in and Zat Knight put it in his own net.</p>
<p><strong><br />Newcastle 2-1 Birmingham</strong></p>
<p>Another mid table battle in Newcastle as the home team got the three points. Liam Ridgewell was sent off for a goal line hand ball that was given as a penalty. Shola Ameobi converted it and then the lead was doubled when Steven Taylor scored from a corner. Lee Bowyer came right back and got one for Birmingham before halftime but that would be the final goal of the match as Newcastle hung on.</p>
<p><br /><strong>West Ham 1-1 Blackburn</strong></p>
<p>This was a relegation battle of the highest order and wouldn’t you know it, it ended as a draw. Jason Roberts first for Blackburn then a Thomas Hitzelsperger low rocket saved the day for Russell Brand and Kanye West’s girlfriends’ club.</p>
<p><br /><strong>Tottenham 1-1 Blackpool</strong></p>
<p>Each of these teams needed a win but for much different reasons. Tottenham to stay in the Champions League race and Blackpool just to stay in the league. A draw is all we would get as Charlie Adam converted a penalty just a minute after he had missed one. Then Jermaine Defoe would strike to earn a point for the home side.</p>
<p><br /><strong>Stoke 3-1 Arsenal</strong></p>
<p>If I were an Arsenal fan, I would be disgusted at my team’s collapse down the stretch. But I am not an Arsenal fan so I am simply amused by the fact that they can’t put two games together. They beat United at home last week then go on the road and lose to mid-table Stoke. I know Stoke has the F.A. Cup Final next week but Arsenal has to be better than this. Stoke went up 2-0 before halftime after goals from Kenwyne Jones (which he just chested in off of a corner) and Jermaine Pennant (a deflected shot from just outside the box). Arsenal looked woeful until Robin van Persie and Marouane Chamakh were paired together in the second half. RVP eventually got the Gunners close with a well taken goal but Stoke would come right back and finish it with a Jon Walters poke home after Arsenal couldn’t get the ball out of their penalty area. Arsene Wenger has a lot of questions to answer. </p>
<p><br /><strong>Wolves 3-1 West Brom</strong></p>
<p>Wolves have been terrible lately so any kind of win would boost their confidence this late in the season. Steven Fletcher slammed home a ball that was bounced around after a corner then Fletcher was provider as he headed a ball across the goal for Guedioura put home. Fletcher then sewed up his man of the match performance with another goal after he took advantage of sloppy play at the back from West Brom. Wolves gave up a penalty in the second half but that was it, three points for Wolves.</p>
<p><strong><br />Manchester United 2-1 Chelsea</strong></p>
<p>It was the game to decide everything. If Chelsea won then they would tie Manchester United on points and go ahead of them on goal differential and if United won then they would essentially lock up the title. Spoiler alert, United won. The match started beautifully for them when after just 36 seconds, Chicharito scored after the ever reliable Ji Sung Park played him in. Sir Alex Ferguson got the most out of his team on this day and they continued to dominate the first half and got a second when Ryan Giggs crossed for Nemanja Vidic to head home. Chelsea was better in the second half and Torres was brought on to hopefully give them some scoring punch. The away side got one back through Frank Lampard but it was a red day as the commentator noted. The match ended 2-1 just as this fixture did last year except this time it was United winning.</p>
<p><strong>Fulham 2-5 Liverpool</strong></p>
<p>Liverpool started out with a bang just as Manchester United did when Maxi Rodriguez scored in the first minute of the game. It got better for the reds as they would make it 3-0 before halftime with another Maxi goal and a soft goal from Dirk Kuyt. Fulham started to make a game out of it in the second half and they became the 20<sup>th</sup> team to score in the Prem this weekend when Dembele made it 3-1. Maxi would then round out his hat trick with probably the goal of the weekend. Like I said before, Fulham made a game of it but the three points was always going to be Liverpool’s.</p>
<p>With just two games left for everybody the table is starting to look complete. Manchester United will win the title with just a point out of their last two games which are away at Blackburn and Bolton. There was a very cool moment at the end of their game when the final whistle blew and Sir Alex was jumping up and down with the pure joy that only winning can bring. It was as if right then and there he realized he had finally knocked Liverpool off their effing perch.</p>
Adam Johnson
2011-05-09T23:08:00Z
Essien to head for Italian challenge?
Guest Blogger
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Essien-to-head-for-Italian-challenge/836943840919453002.html
2011-05-09T21:43:00Z
2011-05-09T21:43:00Z
<!-- @page { margin: 0.79in } P { margin-bottom: 0.08in } A:link { so-language: zxx } --><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: small;">No Chelsea fan would want owner Roman Abramovich to dispose of Michael Essien, even though he hasn't been able to enjoy the best of seasons in a midfield that has, to be fair, been lacking consistent star performers since the Blues' mid-season slump. </span></span>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: small;">However, could it be that Chelsea fans need to prepare themselves for the departure of a man who has in his career in London veered from being a liability when his over-physical approach errs on the side of dangerous to fantastic when he's grabbed a couple of stunning goals from range (especially against Arsenal)?</span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: small;">Well, if you believe the </span></span><a href="http://www.betfairfootball.com/" target="_blank"><strong><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: small;">football transfer rumours</span></span></strong></a><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: small;">, the answer could well be 'yes'. The papers have this week reported that AC Milan manager Massimiliano Allegri has planted Essien on his list of summer transfer targets and is keen to bring the player over to Italy in order to add a bit of steel to his midfield. With Silvio Berlusconi promising fans at the club that he is prepared to spend big during the summer months, it could well be that Carlo Ancelotti finds his hand forced by owner Roman Abramovich when it comes to bringing in a few extra pounds to make up for the extortionate sums paid out in January for David Luiz and Fernando Torres. There'll be a fair few</span></span><strong><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: small;"> <a href="http://www.betfairfootball.com/premier-league/" target="_blank">Premier League bets</a></span></span></strong><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: small;"> placed on a big clear out this summer.</span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: small;">With the Italian club thought to be considering making a bid in the region of £18 million, while admitting they might be willing to add a player or two to the deal in order to achieve what is likely to be an unrealistic valuation for the player from Chelsea, it could well turn out to be the case that Essien waves goodbye to the Stamford Bridge faithful this summer after all.</span></span></p>
Guest Blogger
2011-05-09T21:43:00Z
Have Celtic Thrown Away the Title?
Sandy Thin
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Have-Celtic-Thrown-Away-the-Title/602566320577446103.html
2011-05-09T18:12:00Z
2011-05-09T18:12:00Z
<p>Celtic's midweek loss away to Inverness CT and Rangers' 4-0 thrashing of Hearts on Sunday have as good as won Rangers the title; their third in three years. While Celtic managed a 2-0 win over Kilmarnock they are now relying on Rangers slipping up in either of their two final games for them to have any hope of returning the cup to Celtic Park.</p>
<p>Wednesday night saw Caley Thistle take full advantage of poor display by what looked like a tired Celtic side, who having only conceded twice in the previous seven games, let in three goals to the Inverness attack. It was a performance littered with individual errors and following the game Lennon admitted that his players had been "lazy" and that "at least two of the goals easily avoidable". Another negative Celtic came back to Glasgow with was the injury to Beram Kayal which will keep him out for two to three months, he will be sorely missed in the last few games of the season as he has fast become the linchpin of Celtic's midfield.</p>
<p>The Bhoys were hoping that third placed Hearts could send them a lifeline by getting something out of their visit to Ibrox on Saturday but they were out of luck. Hearts applied some early pressure but as soon as Jelavic put the ball in the back of the net there was only one possible outcome for the match. Strikes from Lafferty and Davis before the break took the score to 3-0 before Hearts captain Eggert Jonsson was sent off for a cynical challenge on Jelavic and then Ryan Stevenson turned the ball into his own net to seal the defeat for the Edinburgh side.</p>
<p>This win took Rangers four points clear of Celtic, who were playing on the Sunday, and the Ibrox crowd seemed confident of bringing home the SPL title for the third consecutive year. Hearts are on a poor run of form at the moment and should it continue they run the risk of losing the coveted Europa League spot with Dundee Utd hot on their heels.</p>
<p>As halftime approached at Rugby Park, it looked as if it might again just not be Celtic's day with two goals being disallowed for offside and Kilmarnock looking promising. However, a Scott Brown header in stoppage time in the first half gave the Glaswegian team hope going into the break. Their lead was doubled in the second half as Kris Commons scored his thirteenth goal for Celtic from 30 yards, a rocket that left the Killie keeper with no chance. All Celtic can now do is win their remaining two fixtures and hope that either Dundee Utd or Kilmarnock can get something out of their ties with Rangers.</p>
<p>Elsewhere in the league, Hamilton, who looked certain to go down several weeks ago, beat Hibernian 1-0 taking them within three points of safety. Dundee Utd continued their good form with a 4-0 win over Motherwell to maintain pressure on Hearts in third place. St Johnstone came away with a 2-0 vicory against Aberdeen at Pittodrie and St Mirren lost 1-0 to Inverness to continue their woeful form over the past few months.</p>
Sandy Thin
2011-05-09T18:12:00Z
Kanye West's Hammers Girl
Rafa
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Kanye-Wests-Hammers-Girl/-803591259069234022.html
2011-05-07T01:12:00Z
2011-05-07T01:12:00Z
Posted by your Producer, Rafa...<br /><br /><br />Yea, I know. I may be getting this news from The Sun in the UK but still, what straight male doesn't give it up for the rapper? <br /><br />The story is this: Kanye West's latest girlfriend is a model who happens to have the last name of Upton. I stretch this truth to say that this nice young lassie is prime for being a West Ham supporter. (*no fact to this statement at all) <br /><br />I don't care who she supports or what her name is, I'd watch whatever football all day if she is around, although I am not sure how much of the game I might take in. Let's be honest. She's a bit distracting.<br /><br />So here is the good part. Her name, Kate <strong>UPTON</strong>. Hahahahaha! Seriously, this poor soul was made to follow the Hammers. If they're going down well... she is too! What I'd give to be a successful rapper from Chicago right about now. <br /><br />I wonder if she'll make it into any of Kanye's Rap videos.<br /><br /><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/KateUpton1.jpg" alt="Kate Upton 1" /><br />I mean, I'd put her in my videos and flaunt that all day long. Anyways, if you want the whole story from The Sun, click on the full story: <a title="Kanye's Lover is an Upton Girl" href="http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/showbiz/bizarre/3566778/Kanyes-lover-is-an-Upton-girl.html">Kanye's Lover is an Upton Girl</a>. <br /><br />But you've got the picture(s) here so not sure how much more there is to it.<br /><img style="margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/KateUpton2.jpg" alt="Kate Upton 2" /><br /><br />Enjoy it lads. And keep up the good work Kanye. I am sure "you can be her American boy..."<br />
Rafa
2011-05-07T01:12:00Z
UCL 2010-2011 Semi-Finals Week 2
M B Mehdi
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/UCL-2010-2011-Semi-Finals-Week-2/202852557939393447.html
2011-05-06T01:43:00Z
2011-05-06T01:43:00Z
<strong></strong><br />MANCHESTER UNITED 4 (Valencia 26, Gibson 31, Anderson 72, Anderson 76)<br /> SCHALKE 1 (Jurado 35)<br /><br /> Gibson, the only Manchester United player I like, played a gloriously weighted 30 yard pass between two defenders to Valencia who killed the ball with a great first touch before nutmegging Neuer. Neuer, irrepressible in the first leg, let a Gibson drive slip through his fingers. Jurado hammered in a loose ball after United's makeshift defence failed to deal with a cross. Valencia beat Neuer for a second time only to see his shot cleared off the line by Howedes. Schalke were robbed of a penalty when Evans grabbed Raul with both arms in the box. It would have been a different game at 2-2 given the weak line-up fielded by Taggart. United recovered from that incident and continued to pummel the Schalke goal. Anderson scrambled in a third on the break and tapped in his second after a Berbatov centre.<br /><br /> Far, far too easy for United, as had been the first leg. If Magath was still coach I'm sure Schalke would have given United a much tougher game. With the exception of their home tie against Marseille, United have breezed through to the final. Let's hope they get absolutely annihilated by Barcelona, it's the lesser of two evils.<br /><br /> Post match on Italian TV Taggart was about to get interviewed. He saw the reporter, slapped him on the back of the head & said "An Arsenal Fan", pointing to an Asenal badge on the reporter's jacket then kissing it! That's the closest Arsenal will get to silverware this season.<br /><br /> Manchester United win 6-1 on aggregate.<br /><br /> Attendance : 74,687<br /> Assists : Gibson, Valencia, n/a, n/a, Berbatov<br /><br /><br /> <strong></strong><br /><br /> BARCELONA 1 (Pedro 54)<br /> REAL MADRID 1 (Marcelo 64)<br /><br /> Massive cheat Busquets wasted a free header from a corner, failing to trouble Casillas. It took Barca a while to get going but towards the end of the half chances started coming thick and fast. Messi chest trapped an Alves cross on the edge of the D, skipped a typically reckless Xabi Alonso sliding tackle and went past Carvalho before pulling his shot wide of the right post. Iniesta tackled Diarra in midfield and sent Messi at Real Madrid's centre backs, he passed to the overlapping Villa and his first time shot was spectacularly saved, one handed, by Casillas. Pedro missed a much easier chance after excellent work by Villa then back healed a Villa centre to Messi, drawing another excellent save from the Real Madrid goalkeeper.<br /><br /> Ronaldo turned away from Alves in midfield and drove into the heart of the Real Madrid defence, he was tripped by Pique and his momentum carried him into the lowlife Mascherano, who rolled around clutching his ankle as Higuain whipped the ball past Valdes. Ridiculous decision. Barca scored shortly thereafter. Iniesta picked a pass between a huge gap left by Marcelo and the past it Carvalho to Pedro who slotted into the left corner. Xabi Alonso intercepted a hospital pass, his only positive contribution in the two ties, and gave the ball do Di Maria, he skipped a typically thuggish Mascherano sliding tackle (I'm surprised he didn't tackle it and go down) and hammered a shot against the left post, the ball came back to him and he centred for Marcelo to tap in. The match then petered out. Abidal made a miraculous return from cancer and Barca celebrated as if they had already won the cup which is always dangerous, unless they know something we don't.<br /><br /> The diving and playacting was almost kept to a minimum, almost as Mascherano did more than enough for box teams. As he's been largely relegated to the Barca bench this season you could be forgiven for forgetting what a dirty, cheating little bastard he is. If he plays another game it will be too soon.<br /><br /> Barcelona win 3-1 on aggregate.<br /><br /> Attendance : 95,701<br /> Assists : Iniesta, Di Maria<br /><br /><br /> <a href="http://soccer-europe.com">http://soccer-europe.com</a><br /> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/calcioeurope">Follow Me On Twitter</a>
M B Mehdi
2011-05-06T01:43:00Z
Big Wins for Celtic and Rangers Keep Title Race Alive
Sandy Thin
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Big-Wins-for-Celtic-and-Rangers-Keep-Title-Race-Alive/717589780491499964.html
2011-05-03T21:17:00Z
2011-05-03T21:17:00Z
Saturday saw Rangers put five past a poor Motherwell side at Fir Park to take them four points clear of Celtic at the table. This was short-lived however, as Celtic took another step closer to the title with a 4-1 victory over Dundee United.<br /><br />Kyle Lafferty put the Blues ahead from a tight angle in the eighteenth minute, scoring only his sixth goal in the league this season. The second half was when Rangers really hit their stride, as Steven Davis found the back of the net from just inside the box with a low shot into the far corner. Nikica Jelavic made it three with a header from close range taking his league tally to thirteen in his first season in Scotland following his summer move from Rapid Vienna. <br /><br />Steven Naismith sealed the victory with two fantastic goals. The first came after a slick one-two with Gregg Wylde finished with a superb 22-yard strike that left Motherwell keeper Darren Randolph with no chance. He then controlled a through ball from El Hadji Diouf before curling his volley perfectly into the far top corner.<br /><br />However, Celtic remained hot on their heels with an emphatic win over a fixture that could have proved difficult. The Hoops went ahead after 23 minutes when Motherwell defender Gary Kenneth’s misplaced pass found Anthony Stokes who remained composed enough to play the through ball to Gary Hooper who slotted home his 17th goal of the season, still hoping that he can catch Kenny Miller’s 21 goals for the SPL Golden Boot.<br /><br />They doubled their lead six minutes into the second half when Beram Kayal dribbled past three defenders before curling the ball into the net from well outside the box with his left foot; another definite contender for goal of the weekend. The Tangerines brought on Johnny Russell who made an immediate impact with several dribbles that troubled the Celtic defence and gave his team hope. However, Kris Commons managed to connect to the rebound that came after his original shot was saved by Dusan Pernis.<br /><br />United found a consolation goal as Goodwillie set up the substitute, Russell. It was replied to almost immediately as Daryl Murphy, who had also just come on to the pitch, blasted through four United defender’s before smashing the ball into the top corner, for his first goal in front of home fans. This means that Celtic are six goals ahead on goal difference with a game in hand which could prove vital should they be tied on points with Rangers come the end of the season.<br /><br />Elsewhere in the league, in an exciting match, Kilmarnock and Hearts drew 2-2 at Rugby Park with both sides taking the lead. St Johnstone, who prior to this match had not scored since early in March, came from behind to snatch a 2-1 victory over Hibs at Easter Road, who themselves are on a bad run of form. Aberdeen managed to end their run of eight games without a win with a 1-0 home win over Inverness CT.<br />
Sandy Thin
2011-05-03T21:17:00Z
Adam's Barclays Premier League Roundup
Adam Johnson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Adams-Barclays-Premier-League-Roundup/-795187061320355786.html
2011-05-03T12:46:00Z
2011-05-03T12:46:00Z
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Premier League Recap (April 30-May 1)</strong></span></p>
<p><strong>Sunderland 0-3 Fulham</strong></p>
<p>Sunderland wins one game and many people thought they were out of their funk, but no, they respond with a poor performance Saturday afternoon. On loan forward, Gael Kakuta, scored Fulham’s first goal before Simon Davies doubled the lead. Sunderland looked awful as Davies scored again to make it 3-0. Fulham continues their good run.</p>
<p><strong>Blackburn 1-0 Bolton</strong></p>
<p>Blackburn has to take points wherever they can get them and all three against Bolton never hurts. Olsson got the winner on a strange looking shot. Bolton needs to find the form they had early in the season if they want to stay in the top half.</p>
<p><strong>Blackpool 0-0 Stoke</strong></p>
<p>Both teams could have used a win but Blackpool really needed it as they are edging ever closer to a return to the Championship. The teams each walked away with a point in this goalless draw.</p>
<p><strong>West Brom 2-1 Aston Villa</strong></p>
<p>Both of these will be safe but this was a chance for one of them to jump a spot in the table and West Brom took that chance. Villa got an own goal to gain an advantage but they couldn’t score themselves. Peter Odemwingie scored again for the club and this one leveled the match at 1-1. Paul Scharner was then sent off for West Brom but it wouldn’t matter. A winner would come from Mulumbu as the home fans celebrated as they knew their club was safe.</p>
<p><strong>Wigan 1-1 Everton</strong></p>
<p>Charles N’Zogbia opened the scoring for Wigan with a perfect left footed strike. Everton would answer with a penalty that Mikel Arteta missed. They would get another chance as Wigan gave away another penalty, this time for a handball. Leighton Baines scored it and both teams got a point.</p>
<p><strong>Chelsea 2-1 Tottenham</strong></p>
<p>A win for Chelsea and they would keep the pressure on Man United in the title race while a win for Spurs would keep them in the race for the fourth Champions League spot. Sandro got the scoring going with a rocket of a shot in the first half. Chelsea had chance after chance and it finally materialized when Frank Lampard’s shot had Gomes scrambling and the ball trickled over the line, in the eyes of the assistant at least. Upon replay, however, it looked like the ball did not totally cross the line. It was 1-1, nonetheless. In the second half it was Salomon Kalou who poked home the winner after a scramble in the box.</p>
<p><strong>Birmingham 1-1 Wolves</strong></p>
<p>Both teams are struggling but Wolves needed a win more than Birmingham did. A win wasn’t in the cards but rather a draw. Birmingham gave up a penalty when Ben Foster charged off his line and brought down the man in the box. Steven Fletcher scored it to give Wolves the lead. The home side had chances and Sebastien Larsson finally took one to make it 1-1 going into halftime. Birmingham had a Craig Gardner sent off when he got a second yellow for diving. The second half didn’t yield any goals so Wolves would have to be satisfied with a draw.</p>
<p><strong>Liverpool 3-0 Newcastle</strong></p>
<p>Yet another impressive win for Kenny Dalglish and Liverpool. This team looks like they are having fun playing together and Maxi Rodriguez looks like a new player. He got the opener while Dirk Kuyt got a penalty, drawn by Luis Suarez, who later made it three for Liverpool. The win vaulted the historic club into 5<sup>th</sup> place.</p>
<p><strong>Arsenal 1-0 Manchester United</strong></p>
<p>Everyone was waiting for Arsenal to show some heart and win a game that really meant something. They finally did that at home against the league leaders Manchester United. The Gunners came out to win and played their usual free flowing game but just as it started to look like another disappointing outing for the home fans, something weird happened. They scored. Yes, Arsenal’s passing amounted into a big goal from Aaron Ramsey, by way of Robin van Persie, and gave the club a valuable lead. We all know Arsenal hasn’t been good at holding leads but this match was different as they held on for a massive win.</p>
<p><strong>Manchester City 2-1 West Ham</strong></p>
<p>Man City all but locked up the fourth spot with this win, in my opinion. I guess a collapse isn’t beyond the realm of possibility but a 2-1 win at home with a performance that showed that they can grind it out said that a collapse probably won’t happen. Goals from Nigel de Jong, oddly enough, and Pablo Zabaleta made it 2-0. West Ham would pull one back through Demba Ba but it wouldn’t matter as City held on for the victory.</p>
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<p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><br /></span></strong></p>
Adam Johnson
2011-05-03T12:46:00Z
Experiencing an Everton Match for the First Time
Chris McClintick
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Experiencing-an-Everton-Match-for-the-First-Time/-263106272921327341.html
2011-05-02T19:00:00Z
2011-05-02T19:00:00Z
<p>by Chris McClintick<br /><br />It was one of the most difficult things I’ve ever had to do, suppress the pure bliss within me watching Everton easily handle Woverhampton, while sitting in the Wolves supporters-section of Molineux.</p>
<p>Following the crowd, booing the Everton players, acting appalled at the slightest hint of an Everton infraction, sitting silently when Everton scored their three goals, muttering expletives to my friend beside me to disguise myself the best I could. Inside however, I was singing along with the Everton faithful just sitting around the corner, jumping up and down after Phil Neville scored, and in a constant state of shock and disbelief that I was actually watching my favorite club and players in the flesh. </p>
<p>For the previous six years, my weekly schedule was planned solely around Everton’s match that week. I would do whatever possible to catch the match on a tiny, pixilated, screen on whichever computer I happened to be closest to. Sometimes while at home, I would have the luxury of watching them on FSC, but mainly I was left scouring streaming websites to continue nourishing the ever-growing, deep, emotional bonds with the club. </p>
<p>Perhaps the best part about being a soccer fan -- regardless of whichever club one supports -- are those bonds that are created when one watches a team week-in, week-out. Not only with the club, but each player, and most importantly the fans. After every Everton goal is scored at Goodison Park, the camera pans to the fans in a state of pure jubilation. I’ve always wished I could be with them, caught in a moment filled with a cascade of joy, relief, excitement, hope, noise, euphoria, and so many other emotions, which only a goal could elicit. </p>
<p>Instead, usually I’m screaming, jumping, and cheering alone in the early morning wearing only boxers, a kit, and a scarf. If at work, pumping my fists underneath the desk to avoid anyone noticing my blatant and out of place celebrations; or even worse celebrating in front of non-soccer fans who see me as some crazed fanatic who needs to learn some civility. </p>
<p>None of that was the case this time. For the first time in my life I was at an actual match, on a real pitch, no pixilation or worries about losing the stream to be had. And what a game it was. I was on the Wolves’ end of the pitch during the first half, putting me in perfect position to see Leon Osman’s cross that Beckford headed home, Phil Neville’s goal from the top of the box, and the rocket from Bilyaletdinov. It was incredible as an American to see Tim Howard’s big saves right in front of me, and being awed by the reaction time and athleticism. However the pinnacle of the match for me was surely Phil Neville’s goal in the first half.</p>
<p>After Phil Neville scored his goal I relished seeing him point straight to Moyes then head directly to the corner flag to do the signature Tim Cahill celebration of punching the corner flag, but then I immediately turned to the Everton section only a few rows from me. I’ll never forget what I saw. A few thousand supporters had just witnessed their captain score his first goal in three years, the last coming off a deflection on a rainy boxing day in Goodison Park against Bolton. Not only was it a great shot right on top of the 18-yard box that put Everton 2-0 before the half, but also it was novelty of seeing a solid, consistent, defensive player have shot instead of laying the ball to the wing for a cross in the typical Everton style. Most importantly, it was from the captain, the player who has lead the squad for years and is looked up to by all of the players on the pitch, who sets the example, and what a better example to set. </p>
<p>This was the one point of the match in which I couldn’t hold back a smile. The travelling Everton fans knew they just witnessed history, albeit one goal from a club hero, it could very well be his last. They knew right when it happened that they would never forget the fact that they saw Phil Neville -- of all people -- smash one home, and so did I. </p>
Chris McClintick
2011-05-02T19:00:00Z
La Liga Week 34: Sociedad & Zaragoza Shock Barça & Madrid
By Stephen Kuzner, WFD La Liga Blogger
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/La-Liga-Week-34:-Sociedad--Zaragoza-Shock-Barça--Madrid/251400893143921577.html
2011-05-02T11:47:00Z
2011-05-02T11:47:00Z
<p>Sometimes you wonder what you are going to write about and then <strong>Real Sociedad</strong> and <strong>Real Zaragoza</strong> go out and beat <strong>Barçalona</strong> and <strong>Real Madrid</strong> on the road. Granted Barça had ended with 3 players out of position on their backline, but any lineup with <strong>Gerard Piqué</strong>, <strong>Lionel Messi</strong>, and <strong>Xavi</strong> should get it done at Sociedad. This result in the grand scheme of things makes Sociedad’s road to La Liga next year pretty much ensured and creates a road of perfection needed for Barça to reach the 100 point mark and beat their all-time La Liga point record set last year. Sociedad’s <strong>Antoine Griezmann</strong>, highly touted by GolTV’s and WFD regular Wayne Hudson, looks like a star in the making. It’ll be hard for Sociedad to turn down the millions that will be cast their way over the summer transfer period for his services. Same goes for <strong>Zabi Prieto</strong>. It would be great to see if they could hold on to these two, add some pieces, and compete for a Europa League spot next year.</p>
<p>Zaragoza needed it much more than Madrid, but Madrid playing home at the Bernabéu and with a squad eight players different than the loss on Wednesday still should have finished off Zaragoza. Madrid’s 2<sup>nd</sup> eleven is better than all of La Liga’s 1<sup>st</sup> eleven save Barça.</p>
<p>Are we surprised Madrid finished with ten men again?</p>
<p><strong>José Mourinho</strong> would have been better suited to try and raise a conspiracy theory about the ‘powers that be” trying to undermine him rather than help Barça. Although that would be fantasy as well. Most folks aren’t fooled into thinking an aggressive, physical, and defensive style of play won’t produce fouls and thus cards and sendings-off. Does the <strong>Ricardo Carvalho</strong>’s dismissal mean that the ‘UEFA loves Barça’ conspiracy theory extend to La Liga? Do we really need to answer that? Here’s what I believe: the majority of the footballing world is not fond of Mourinho for his antics and for his teams’ styles of play. Because he is Mourinho, most say he is safe for at least another year in Madrid because of the Copa del Ray win. I am not so sure. If Barça win the double between La Liga and the UEFA Champions League, I think Madrid sacks him. The triple combination of having the world’s deepest roster and highest payroll, not winning either of the two big trophies, and not playing the traditional Madrid way will be too much.</p>
<p>What will happen in <strong>El Clásico</strong> Part IV? Could it get any worse than the debacle on last Wednesday? Yes and it will. What everyone wants to see is Mourinho give the green light to an attacking game to make-up the two goal deficit. I think the opposite will happen. You’ll see Madrid add simulation to the ultra-defensive tactics and fouling. Do we really think Mourinho will use a more open strategy that created a 5-0 loss earlier this season? My greatest fear is someone getting injured. Genuinely injured that is, <strong>Nigel Dejong</strong> karate kick style, not Dani Alves stretchered-off and running back on style. That or a full scale brawl on the pitch. Just about everything else happened in the last match. <strong>El Clásico</strong> Part IV will be more reality TV than sporting spectacle.</p>
<p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Scores</span></strong></p>
<p><strong>R Madrid</strong> <span style="text-decoration: underline;">2-3</span> <strong>R Zaragoza</strong> | Lafita 41' & 77', Gabi 54', Ramos 62', Benzema 84'<br /><strong>Real Sociedad</strong> <span style="text-decoration: underline;">2-1</span> <strong>Barçalona</strong> | Thiago 29', Ifran 71', Prieto 82'<br /><strong>Deportivo</strong> <span style="text-decoration: underline;">0-1</span> <strong>Atletico</strong> | Agüero 80'<br /><strong>Almeria</strong> <span style="text-decoration: underline;">0-1</span> <strong>Sevilla</strong> | Renato 58'<br /><strong>Levante</strong> <span style="text-decoration: underline;">0-0</span> <strong>Sporting Gijón</strong> |<br /><strong>Málaga</strong> <span style="text-decoration: underline;">3-1</span> <strong>Hercules</strong> | Valdez 4', Baptista 5' & 76', Rondon 73'<br /><strong>Racing</strong> <strong>Santander</strong> <span style="text-decoration: underline;">2-0</span> <strong>Mallorca</strong> | Rosenberg 13' & Bakircioglü 43'<br /><strong>Villarreal</strong> <span style="text-decoration: underline;">2-1</span> <strong>Getafe</strong> | Rios 31', Cani 61', Rossi 74'<br /><strong>Osasuna</strong> <span style="text-decoration: underline;">1-0</span> <strong>Valencia</strong> | Cejudo 59'<br /><strong>Espanyol</strong> <span style="text-decoration: underline;">vs.</span> <strong>Athletic Bilbao</strong> | Monday</p>
<p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Table</span></strong></p>
<p>1. <strong>Barçalona</strong> (88) Shock loss means little beyond perfection for 100 pts.<br />2. <strong>Real Madrid</strong> (80) Will shock loss at home hurt karma for UCL?<br />3. <strong>Valencia</strong> (63) Villarreal are going to make the #3 spot race interesting.<br />4. <strong>Villarreal</strong> (60) Getting close to UCL being numerical done and close to automatic.<br />5. Atlético Madrid (52) Agüero is on fire, maybe the hottest striker in world.<br />6. <span style="text-decoration: underline;">Sevilla</span> (52) Win at Almeria gets them ahead of<strong> </strong>Bilbao temporarily.<br />7. <span style="text-decoration: underline;">Athletic</span> (51) Win on Monday at Espanyol gets them back into Europa League spot.<br />8. Espanyol (45) Expect a lot of youth to play against Bilbao on Monday.<br />9. Levante (43) Really #9?<br />10. Sporting Gijón (41) Draw at Levante oddly seems a good result.<br />11. Mallorca (42) Loss at Racing is no surprise. Racing needed it a lot more.<br />12. Real Sociedad (41) Tamudo, Griezmann, and Prieto too much for Barça B.<br />13. Racing (40) They are a result or two from safety.<br />14. R Zaragoza (39) They needed it more than Madrid, but at Madrid is shock.<br />15. Málaga (39) Baptista keeps scoring and scoring. Best winter pick-up.<br />16. Osasuna (38) Huge win hosting Valencia. Relegation race now wide open.<br />17. Deportivo (38) They really needed at least a draw hosting Atlético.<br />18. <strong>Getafe</strong> (37) Lose at Villarreal was expected. Dropped 4 spots to drop zone.<br />19. <strong>Hercules</strong> (33) Loss at Málaga leaves little room to avoid the drop?<br />20. <strong>Almeria</strong> (26) One more loss and they are relegated.</p>
<p><em>Stephen Kuzner is a Baltimore-based Blogger for WorldFootballDaily.com who specializes in La Liga. You can reach him on Facebook at facebook.com/BarcaBlogger or Twitter at @twitter.com/BarcaBlogger.</em> </p>
By Stephen Kuzner, WFD La Liga Blogger
2011-05-02T11:47:00Z
Manager Profile: Milan and Massimiliano
Frank Tigani - SerieAWeekly.com
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Manager-Profile:-Milan-and-Massimiliano/-188926494388384596.html
2011-04-29T16:51:00Z
2011-04-29T16:51:00Z
<div class="OutlineElement Ltr SCX54687860" style="margin-left: 0px; text-indent: 0px;">
<p class="Paragraph SCX54687860" style="font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; vertical-align: baseline; font-size: 8pt; font-family: 'Segoe UI',Tahoma,Verdana,'Sans-Serif'; background-color: transparent; color: windowtext; text-indent: 0px; width: auto; height: auto; margin-right: 3px;"><span class="TextRun SCX54687860" style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,Sans-Serif;">Italy has long produced some of the world’s best managers. From the much travelled Giovanni </span><span class="TextRun SCX54687860" style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,Sans-Serif;">Trapattoni</span><span class="TextRun SCX54687860" style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,Sans-Serif;"> and the world cup winning </span><span class="TextRun SCX54687860" style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,Sans-Serif;">Enzo</span><span class="TextRun SCX54687860" style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,Sans-Serif;"> </span><span class="TextRun SCX54687860" style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,Sans-Serif;">Bearzot</span><span class="TextRun SCX54687860" style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,Sans-Serif;"> to today’s masters such as Fabio Capello and Carlo Ancelotti.</span><span class="EOP SCX54687860" style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,Sans-Serif;"> </span></p>
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<p class="Paragraph SCX54687860" style="font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; vertical-align: baseline; font-size: 8pt; font-family: 'Segoe UI',Tahoma,Verdana,'Sans-Serif'; background-color: transparent; color: windowtext; text-indent: 0px;"><span class="TextRun SCX54687860" style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,Sans-Serif;">Such names have built their reputations over a long period now. Fabio Capello established his reputation during Milan’s glory days in the early 1990’s and Marcello Lippi did the same towards the end of the same decade. More recently Carlo Ancelotti earnt his reputation as a cup expert with his Champions League exploits in the middle part of the noughties. </span><span class="EOP SCX54687860" style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,Sans-Serif;"> </span></p>
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<p class="Paragraph SCX54687860" style="font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; vertical-align: baseline; font-size: 8pt; font-family: 'Segoe UI',Tahoma,Verdana,'Sans-Serif'; background-color: transparent; color: windowtext; text-indent: 0px;"><span class="TextRun SCX54687860" style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,Sans-Serif;">But, not since Ancelotti’s Milan raised the European Cup in Old Trafford back in 2003 has a n</span><span class="TextRun SCX54687860" style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,Sans-Serif;">ew Italian tactician emerged from the peninsula with a creditable claim to being a new master of the game. </span><span class="EOP SCX54687860" style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,Sans-Serif;"> </span></p>
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<div class="OutlineElement Ltr SCX54687860" style="margin-left: 0px; text-indent: 0px;">
<p class="Paragraph SCX54687860" style="font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; vertical-align: baseline; font-size: 8pt; font-family: 'Segoe UI',Tahoma,Verdana,'Sans-Serif'; background-color: transparent; color: windowtext; text-indent: 0px;"><span class="TextRun SCX54687860" style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,Sans-Serif;">That is, until now. This season has seen the re-emergence of Milan as a domestic force in the Serie A. The man behind the Rossoneri’s return to the top of Italian </span><span class="TextRun SCX54687860" style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,Sans-Serif;">football has been the young,</span><span class="TextRun SCX54687860" style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,Sans-Serif;"> stylish and wily Max Allegri.</span><span class="TextRun SCX54687860" style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,Sans-Serif;"> </span><span class="EOP SCX54687860" style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,Sans-Serif;"> </span></p>
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<p class="Paragraph SCX54687860" style="font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; vertical-align: baseline; font-size: 8pt; font-family: 'Segoe UI',Tahoma,Verdana,'Sans-Serif'; background-color: transparent; color: windowtext; text-indent: 0px;"><span class="TextRun SCX54687860" style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,Sans-Serif;">Hired from Cagliari wh</span><span class="TextRun SCX54687860" style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,Sans-Serif;">ere he took a</span><span class="TextRun SCX54687860" style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,Sans-Serif;"> modest team that regularly struggles surviving relegation to mid table security, Allegri was thrusted into the big time when he was lured to the Milanello. His move to Milan was </span><span class="TextRun SCX54687860" style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,Sans-Serif;">reminiscent</span><span class="TextRun SCX54687860" style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,Sans-Serif;"> of that of Arrigo Sacchi in the mid 1980’</span><span class="TextRun SCX54687860" style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,Sans-Serif;">s who, like Allegri, had but limited previous experience as a manager let alone having won anything.</span><span class="EOP SCX54687860" style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,Sans-Serif;"> </span></p>
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<p class="Paragraph SCX54687860" style="font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; vertical-align: baseline; font-size: 8pt; font-family: 'Segoe UI',Tahoma,Verdana,'Sans-Serif'; background-color: transparent; color: windowtext; text-indent: 0px;"><span class="TextRun SCX54687860" style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,Sans-Serif;">Allegri arrived in Milan at a </span><span class="TextRun SCX54687860" style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,Sans-Serif;">peculiar</span><span class="TextRun SCX54687860" style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,Sans-Serif;"> time in the club’s recent history. A decade of success, mainly on the European stage, had long ended as the team entered into a period of underachievement partially triggered by Calciopoli in 2006. Painfully for all Milanisti, during this period hated rivals Inter established </span><span class="TextRun SCX54687860" style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,Sans-Serif;">themselves as the dominant power in the</span><span class="TextRun SCX54687860" style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,Sans-Serif;"> Serie A. </span><span class="EOP SCX54687860" style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,Sans-Serif;"> </span></p>
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<p class="Paragraph SCX54687860" style="font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; vertical-align: baseline; font-size: 8pt; font-family: 'Segoe UI',Tahoma,Verdana,'Sans-Serif'; background-color: transparent; color: windowtext; text-indent: 0px;"><span class="TextRun SCX54687860" style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,Sans-Serif;">T</span><span class="TextRun SCX54687860" style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,Sans-Serif;">he experiment of Leonardo as he</span><span class="TextRun SCX54687860" style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,Sans-Serif;">ad coach</span><span class="TextRun SCX54687860" style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,Sans-Serif;"> failed miserably last season </span><span class="TextRun SCX54687860" style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,Sans-Serif;">as the club was embarrassingly bundled out of the Champions League and finished some distance behind winners Inter. </span><span class="EOP SCX54687860" style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,Sans-Serif;"> </span></p>
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<p class="Paragraph SCX54687860" style="font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; vertical-align: baseline; font-size: 8pt; font-family: 'Segoe UI',Tahoma,Verdana,'Sans-Serif'; background-color: transparent; color: windowtext; text-indent: 0px;"><span class="TextRun SCX54687860" style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,Sans-Serif;">With no success, or even evident progress, since the club’s 2007 Champions League triumph this season the club’s patron’s embarked on a valiant attempt to rebuild the side with some quality. </span><span class="TextRun SCX54687860" style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,Sans-Serif;">The likes of Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Robinho were brought in along with useful additions like Kevin Prince Boateng and Mark van Bommel.</span><span class="EOP SCX54687860" style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,Sans-Serif;"> </span></p>
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<p class="Paragraph SCX54687860" style="font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; vertical-align: baseline; font-size: 8pt; font-family: 'Segoe UI',Tahoma,Verdana,'Sans-Serif'; background-color: transparent; color: windowtext; text-indent: 0px;"><span class="TextRun SCX54687860" style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,Sans-Serif;">But, the most important appointment has proved to be the first one the club made l</span><span class="TextRun SCX54687860" style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,Sans-Serif;">ast summer when Max Allegri was brought in</span><span class="TextRun SCX54687860" style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,Sans-Serif;">. </span><span class="EOP SCX54687860" style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,Sans-Serif;"> </span></p>
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<p class="Paragraph SCX54687860" style="font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; vertical-align: baseline; font-size: 8pt; font-family: 'Segoe UI',Tahoma,Verdana,'Sans-Serif'; background-color: transparent; color: windowtext; text-indent: 0px;"><span class="TextRun SCX54687860" style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,Sans-Serif;">Though the team did not enjoy a great start to the campaign, undermined by Ronaldinho’s tactical limitations and Berlusconi’s demand to see his favourite Brazilian in the starting line-up, Allegri has slowly built a side </span><span class="TextRun SCX54687860" style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,Sans-Serif;">that now looks set to clinch the club’s first league title since 2004.</span><span class="EOP SCX54687860" style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,Sans-Serif;"> </span></p>
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<p class="Paragraph SCX54687860" style="font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; vertical-align: baseline; font-size: 8pt; font-family: 'Segoe UI',Tahoma,Verdana,'Sans-Serif'; background-color: transparent; color: windowtext; text-indent: 0px;"><span class="TextRun SCX54687860" style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,Sans-Serif;">In contrast to last season when Leonardo’s swashbuckling approach to tactics saw Milan leak goals left right and centre, much like his Inter side this season, Allegri has built a strong a team bu</span><span class="TextRun SCX54687860" style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,Sans-Serif;">ilt upon a sound defensive unit formed around the ever improving and ever consistent Thiago Silva. </span><span class="TextRun SCX54687860" style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,Sans-Serif;"> </span><span class="EOP SCX54687860" style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,Sans-Serif;"> </span></p>
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<p class="Paragraph SCX54687860" style="font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; vertical-align: baseline; font-size: 8pt; font-family: 'Segoe UI',Tahoma,Verdana,'Sans-Serif'; background-color: transparent; color: windowtext; text-indent: 0px;"><span class="TextRun SCX54687860" style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,Sans-Serif;">In attack, Allegri has been blessed with some of the finest talents in the game. Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Robinho, Antonio Cassano and Alexandre Pato all have their critics and in the past they have had </span><span class="TextRun SCX54687860" style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,Sans-Serif;">their troubles</span><span class="TextRun SCX54687860" style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,Sans-Serif;"> too</span><span class="TextRun SCX54687860" style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,Sans-Serif;">. But, there is no denying that this gr</span><span class="TextRun SCX54687860" style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,Sans-Serif;">oup of strikers are world class, even if they have not always displayed it. </span><span class="TextRun SCX54687860" style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,Sans-Serif;"> </span><span class="EOP SCX54687860" style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,Sans-Serif;"> </span></p>
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<p class="Paragraph SCX54687860" style="font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; vertical-align: baseline; font-size: 8pt; font-family: 'Segoe UI',Tahoma,Verdana,'Sans-Serif'; background-color: transparent; color: windowtext; text-indent: 0px;"><span class="TextRun SCX54687860" style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,Sans-Serif;">Perhaps Allegri’s greatest achievement this season, and something that tells much about his promising capacity as a manager, </span><span class="TextRun SCX54687860" style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,Sans-Serif;">has been his ability to get the best out of his four attackers. Many a manager would struggle to deal with the </span><span class="TextRun SCX54687860" style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,Sans-Serif;">egos</span><span class="TextRun SCX54687860" style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,Sans-Serif;"> and fickle personalities of Ibra, Robinho, Cassano and even Pato</span><span class="TextRun SCX54687860" style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,Sans-Serif;"> on an individual basis let alone</span><span class="TextRun SCX54687860" style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,Sans-Serif;"> when they are all in the same dressing room. </span><span class="EOP SCX54687860" style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,Sans-Serif;"> </span></p>
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<p class="Paragraph SCX54687860" style="font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; vertical-align: baseline; font-size: 8pt; font-family: 'Segoe UI',Tahoma,Verdana,'Sans-Serif'; background-color: transparent; color: windowtext; text-indent: 0px;"><span class="TextRun SCX54687860" style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,Sans-Serif;">Max Allegri has helped make Ibrahimovic the club’s new talisman. Even if the Swede’s form has declined recently, he still remains the club’s top goal scorer and provider of assists. </span><span class="TextRun SCX54687860" style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,Sans-Serif;">In addition</span><span class="TextRun SCX54687860" style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,Sans-Serif;">, </span><span class="TextRun SCX54687860" style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,Sans-Serif;">Allegri has also helped Cassano and Robinho get </span><span class="TextRun SCX54687860" style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,Sans-Serif;">their</span><span class="TextRun SCX54687860" style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,Sans-Serif;"> own</span><span class="TextRun SCX54687860" style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,Sans-Serif;"> careers back on track. The Brazilian has aided Milan’s title challenge with a number of goals this season. But, even more importantly, and this must be due to Allegri’s sound man management skills, Robinho has been happy to play anywhere the coach has opted to play him even if it has meant starting from the bench. In the past, the </span><span class="TextRun SCX54687860" style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,Sans-Serif;">Brazilian would have become unsettled at such a situation, yet, under Allegri, he has remained calm and kept his focus. </span><span class="EOP SCX54687860" style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,Sans-Serif;"> </span></p>
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<p class="Paragraph SCX54687860" style="font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; vertical-align: baseline; font-size: 8pt; font-family: 'Segoe UI',Tahoma,Verdana,'Sans-Serif'; background-color: transparent; color: windowtext; text-indent: 0px;"><span class="TextRun SCX54687860" style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,Sans-Serif;">Much like his Brazilian counterpart, Cassano</span><span class="TextRun SCX54687860" style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,Sans-Serif;"> too seems content and settled at the Milanello. Again, like Robinho, Allegri has started the Italian maestro from the bench more often than not. </span><span class="TextRun SCX54687860" style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,Sans-Serif;">Nonetheless, u</span><span class="TextRun SCX54687860" style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,Sans-Serif;">nlike </span><span class="TextRun SCX54687860" style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,Sans-Serif;">what </span><span class="TextRun SCX54687860" style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,Sans-Serif;">would have been the case in the past, the former Roma star has not become disgruntled by the situation, but, rather, has kept his cool and </span><span class="TextRun SCX54687860" style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,Sans-Serif;">has also maintained his focus. </span><span class="EOP SCX54687860" style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,Sans-Serif;"> </span></p>
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<p class="Paragraph SCX54687860" style="font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; vertical-align: baseline; font-size: 8pt; font-family: 'Segoe UI',Tahoma,Verdana,'Sans-Serif'; background-color: transparent; color: windowtext; text-indent: 0px;"><span class="TextRun SCX54687860" style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,Sans-Serif;">Max Allegri’s ability to keep his stars happy</span><span class="TextRun SCX54687860" style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,Sans-Serif;">,</span><span class="TextRun SCX54687860" style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,Sans-Serif;"> even when relegating them to the bench, has arguably been his greatest achievement and is certainly one of the </span><span class="TextRun SCX54687860" style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,Sans-Serif;">key reasons behind </span><span class="TextRun SCX54687860" style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,Sans-Serif;">Milan</span><span class="TextRun SCX54687860" style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,Sans-Serif;">’</span><span class="TextRun SCX54687860" style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,Sans-Serif;">s re-emergence this season</span><span class="TextRun SCX54687860" style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,Sans-Serif;">. </span><span class="TextRun SCX54687860" style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,Sans-Serif;">Not so much was expected of a coach who hailed from Cagliari and with no experience at a big club. Moreover, not so much was expected of a coach when given </span><span class="TextRun SCX54687860" style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,Sans-Serif;">a group of star players with such complicated personalities</span><span class="TextRun SCX54687860" style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,Sans-Serif;">. </span><span class="TextRun SCX54687860" style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,Sans-Serif;"> </span><span class="TextRun SCX54687860" style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,Sans-Serif;"> </span><span class="EOP SCX54687860" style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,Sans-Serif;"> </span></p>
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<p class="Paragraph SCX54687860" style="font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; vertical-align: baseline; font-size: 8pt; font-family: 'Segoe UI',Tahoma,Verdana,'Sans-Serif'; background-color: transparent; color: windowtext; text-indent: 0px;"><span class="TextRun SCX54687860" style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,Sans-Serif;">This season Allegri has shown his masterful man-management skills, but, in addition, he has also shown his tactical prowess best displayed in the two derby</span><span class="TextRun SCX54687860" style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,Sans-Serif;"> defe</span><span class="TextRun SCX54687860" style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,Sans-Serif;">ats of Inter. In the first</span><span class="TextRun SCX54687860" style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,Sans-Serif;">, he outwitted the Champions League winning Rafa Benitez even after seeing his side reduced to ten men</span><span class="TextRun SCX54687860" style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,Sans-Serif;">. I</span><span class="TextRun SCX54687860" style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,Sans-Serif;">n the second derby he exploited Leonardo’s defensive shortcomings as a manager as he led his side to a comprehensive three nil victory. </span><span class="EOP SCX54687860" style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,Sans-Serif;"> </span></p>
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<p class="Paragraph SCX54687860" style="font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; vertical-align: baseline; font-size: 8pt; font-family: 'Segoe UI',Tahoma,Verdana,'Sans-Serif'; background-color: transparent; color: windowtext; text-indent: 0px;"><span class="TextRun SCX54687860" style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,Sans-Serif;">With an eight point advantage and with just four rounds remaining, barring a monumental disaster, Max Allegri looks set to lead Milan to championship success in just his first season at the club. Just three years after taking his first role in top flight football with Cagliari, it will be an amazing achievement for the young tactician.</span><span class="EOP SCX54687860" style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,Sans-Serif;"> </span></p>
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<p class="Paragraph SCX54687860" style="font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; vertical-align: baseline; font-size: 8pt; font-family: 'Segoe UI',Tahoma,Verdana,'Sans-Serif'; background-color: transparent; color: windowtext; text-indent: 0px;"><span class="TextRun SCX54687860" style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,Sans-Serif;">For a nation that has always produced master tacticians, Max Allegri looks set to continue the tradition. If and when Milan all but wrap up the title this season, it will not only mark the end of a bleak period </span><span class="TextRun SCX54687860" style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,Sans-Serif;">for the club </span><span class="TextRun SCX54687860" style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,Sans-Serif;">and the </span><span class="TextRun SCX54687860" style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,Sans-Serif;">beginning of a new brighter one. B</span><span class="TextRun SCX54687860" style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,Sans-Serif;">ut, it will also announce the arrival of the next master Italian tactician who g</span><span class="TextRun SCX54687860" style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,Sans-Serif;">oes by the name of Max Allegri.</span><br /><span class="EOP SCX54687860" style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,Sans-Serif;"> </span></p>
<p class="Paragraph SCX54687860" style="font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; vertical-align: baseline; font-size: 8pt; font-family: 'Segoe UI',Tahoma,Verdana,'Sans-Serif'; background-color: transparent; color: windowtext; text-indent: 0px;"><span class="EOP SCX54687860" style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,Sans-Serif;"> </span></p>
<p class="Paragraph SCX54687860" style="font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; vertical-align: baseline; font-size: 8pt; font-family: 'Segoe UI',Tahoma,Verdana,'Sans-Serif'; background-color: transparent; color: windowtext; text-indent: 0px;"><em>Frank Tigani is a writer for Italian Football Website, Serie A Weekly.com. He is also the creator of acmilanblog.net and is a editor for the Canadian Soccer Magazine publication, 11 Players. Originally from Australia, Frank covered Australian football and Australia’s World Cup campaign during the 2010 South Africa FIFA World Cup for, just-football.com.</em></p>
<p class="Paragraph SCX54687860" style="font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; vertical-align: baseline; font-size: 8pt; font-family: 'Segoe UI',Tahoma,Verdana,'Sans-Serif'; background-color: transparent; color: windowtext; text-indent: 0px;"> </p>
<p class="Paragraph SCX54687860" style="font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; vertical-align: baseline; font-size: 8pt; font-family: 'Segoe UI',Tahoma,Verdana,'Sans-Serif'; background-color: transparent; color: windowtext; text-indent: 0px;">You can read more from Frank Tigani on the pages of <a href="http://www.serieaweekly.com/" target="_blank">SerieAWeekly.com</a> and <a rel="nofollow" href="http://twitter.com/Franky_T" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.serieaweekly.com/images/followmeontwitter.gif" border="0" alt="twitter link" width="160" height="27" /></a></p>
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Frank Tigani - SerieAWeekly.com
2011-04-29T16:51:00Z
UCL 2010-2011 Semi-Finals Week 1
M B Mehdi
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/UCL-2010-2011-Semi-Finals-Week-1/533449366319196193.html
2011-04-28T22:28:00Z
2011-04-28T22:28:00Z
<strong></strong><br /><br /> <br />REAL MADRID 0<br /> BARCELONA 2 (Messi 76, Messi 87)<br /><br /> Only two chances, one for either side, in a dreadful first half. Xavi should have done better after Messi played him in but he shot straight at Casillas. Ozil missed an absolute sitter on the rebound after Valdes fumbled a Ronaldo rocket. Barca reserve goalkeeper Pinto was sent off in a half time kerfuffle.<br /><br /> Pepe challenged fellow cheat Dani Alves for a 50-50 ball, both players had their fight foot raised, Alves of course spun away and pretended to be crippled, red card. Casillas parried a Villa shot straight at Pedro who headed wide with the goal at his mercy, as he fell Marcelo stamped on his ankle. I'm not sure if it was deliberate. Messi ran trough a typically reckless Xabi Alonso tackle but had a shot charged down, he was first the rebound and touched the ball to Xavi, he spread the ball out wide to Affelay on the right, Xabi Alonso took two quick glimpses past Messi, who was standing next to him, but somehow managed to forget to track him as he made a beeline for Affelay's centre at turned the ball at the near post. Xabi Alonso put his hands on his head. That's the reaction I have whenever seeing the useless, pointless twat. Messi played a ball into Busquets who trapped it and stood still, Messi took the ball off him and held off Diarra, who played the Peter Reid let him pass role, turned Ramos, knocked the ball past the statute that was Albiol, ran inside Marcelo then tapped into the bottom left corner. Fantastic goal, to paraphrase from Spartacus "A flower of beauty in a world of shit".<br /><br /> This game was a perfect summation of Spanish football, lots of diving and playacting with the occasional dirty foul. Dani Alves especially is a despicable player. Di Maria is an equal level of cheating bastard. Of course over in the UK Sky Sports and their La Liga salesman would have us believe La Liga and Barcelona especially are the bastions of virtue and fairplay.<br /><br /> Mourinho needs a miracle in the second leg and he won't get it. Real Madrid simply don't have a DM good enough to stop Barca's midfield rhythm. They've been playing together so long (because they can keep spending money they don't have to pay high wages and hold onto their best players) it gives them a massive advantage over other teams - trying to outplay them is a waste of time.<br /><br /> Attendance : 71,567<br /> Red Card : Pinto 47 (Barcelona), Pepe 61 (Real Madrid)<br /> Assists : Affelay, Busquets<br /><br /><br /> <strong>26 April 2011</strong><br /><br /> SCHALKE 0<br /> MANCHESTER UNITED 2 (Giggs 67, Rooney 69)<br /><br /> Neuer was called into action twice in the opening 5 minutes. Schalke couldn't stop the bleeding as the visitors laid siege to their goal. The pick Neuer's saves was a superb one handed stop from Giggs. He denied Giggs again at the end of the first half. Rangnick's half time team talk must have been shit because Neuer was forced into another brilliant one handed save from Valencia seconds into the restart. A moment of magic from the despicable Rooney broke the deadlock. He turned onto a pass, feigned to shoot as a defender dived in with a sliding tackle, skipped past his outstretched legs and hit a reverse pass between three players and Giggs shot first time under Neuer as he ran off his line. Two minutes later Hernandez flicked a Valencia pass through for Rooney who again beat Neuer with a first time shot. Nani, on as a substitute, flicked a ball between two defenders to Evra, he bounced the ball off a knee and dragged a shot just wide of a post. Would have been one hell of a goal.<br /><br /> Another dreadfully sad night for the sport which presents a conundrum for ABUs like myself. Should Barca reach the final I think there's a 90% chance they'll beat United as United are not a good pressing side and will eventually be worn down by chasing shadows. I only give Real Madrid 60%. Real Madrid's approach play under Mourinho is more deliberate and measured which will allow United's defence to hold their shape.<br /><br /> Attendance : 54,142<br /> Assists : Rooney, Hernandez<br /><br /> <a href="http://soccer-europe.com">http://soccer-europe.com</a><br /> <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/calcioeurope">Follow Me On Twitter</a>
M B Mehdi
2011-04-28T22:28:00Z
El Clásico Act III: Guardiola as Hamlet & Simulation Served
By Stephen Kuzner, WFD La Liga Blogger
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/El-Clásico-Act-III:-Guardiola-as-Hamlet--Simulation-Served/-63796228559970433.html
2011-04-28T21:59:00Z
2011-04-28T21:59:00Z
<p>Where do we start? Fingers can be pointed all over the place regarding the most contentious match in memory. You knew the game was doing to be ugly from <strong>Pep Guardiola</strong>’s expletive-laced pregame press conference response to <strong>José</strong> <strong>Mourinho</strong>’s sarcastic jab that Guardiola whines when officials make correct calls. Having failed to breakdown Real Madrid in two matches, Guardiola looked like he had lost the plot. Usually the epitome of class and dignity in the public eye, this seemed his unraveling. His moment of madness. Not so…</p>
<p>Was Pep Guardiola playing <strong>Hamlet</strong>?</p>
<p>Don’t worry, I won’t bore you with too much <strong>Shakespeare</strong> in this column. All you need to know is that in the play, Prince Hamlet exacts revenge on his uncle Claudius. Although Hamlet suffers from genuine madness in the play, he also feigns madness in order to execute his vengeful plot. If we examine Guardiola’s remarks we see that he was acutely hurt by Mourinho’s mind games, tactics, antics, press manipulation, and particularly how Mourinho refers to Guardiola in public because they worked together from 1996-2000 while Pep was a player and Mourinho was an assistant coach. The uncle and nephew analogy is not that far off. Pep felt he has deserved more (at least some) respect form Mourinho the past few years.</p>
<p>Is this Barca vs. Madrid or Guardiola vs. Mourinho?</p>
<p>It is an absolute shame that these Clásicos are more about Mourinho and Guardiola than about Real Madrid and Barcelona. Two weeks ago, I wrote about how I believed that Mourinho used systematic fouling as a major component of their strategy to stop Barca in El Clásico Act I. Well, what comes around, goes around, right? Not only do I think Guardiola decided to add a dash of fouling to Barca’s plan, but also simulation, surrounding officials, and taking ticky-tacky to a literal form of keep-away. <strong>Sergio Busquets</strong>, <strong>Pedro</strong> and <strong>Dani Alves</strong> all go down easy, but doing down holding their heads on any collision was taking acting to another level.</p>
<p>But, can you blame Barcelona for going to the ground, head in hands?</p>
<p>If you are going to get fouled every time you beat your opponent “fair and square” what are you left to do? Further, simulation would infuriate Mourinho and thus Madrid. And it did. This brings us back to our Hamlet acting analogy. The video that Real Madrid released on their website about Pedro and Busquets going down, writhing in pain, holding their heads that weren’t hit, misses the point that they WERE fouled.</p>
<p>So which is the worse crime, simulation or incessant fouling?</p>
<p>The right answer is neither. If you have one, you are going to have the other. When you have a ton of both, you better surround the officials or you are going to miss out on any calls. Hence, we have the mess we witnessed Wednesday night. Mourinho said Madrid practiced with 10 men because someone would get sent off. Why not have a game plan that would ensure you’re players stay on the field. Fouling is conceding your adversary is better than you. The true shame in it, is both Real Madrid and Barcelona did not do this the majority of each of their seasons this year.</p>
<p>What about all that ticky-tacky?</p>
<p>Something was awry when the camera panned the players during the Champions League anthem. Busquets was grinning cheek to cheek. He was to be the center piece of a ticky-tacky game designed to frustrate and enrage Madrid. It was comical how many passes he exchanged back and forth the Barca’s backline. It was almost like a recess keep away game with a stooge in the middle, only Ronaldo is not a stooge. Most of the first half was pretty much a possession training session. Was this fun to watch? No. It was downright annoying to a fan of the game. Was it necessary and effective? Yes. I wondered why they didn’t do it the first two Clásicos when Madrid was content to sit back and not build much creatively. The oles were merited as a strategy and reaction to Madrid in the first two matches and they worked in opening up the game.</p>
<p>Is <strong>Lionel Messi</strong> better than Ronaldo?</p>
<p>After his game, this is beyond a shadow of a doubt. The second goal slicing through a handful of defenders is an all time great. Remarkably, Messi has overtaken Josep Samitier as the #3 scorer at Barcelona only behind Ladislao Kubala (194) and Cesar Rodriguez (235). Messi is only 23 years old. This is staggering. Messi’s goals were two of a few redeeming aspects of the game.</p>
<p>Is Barcelona involved in a conspiracy with UEFA to win the Champions League?</p>
<p>I couldn’t believe that Mourinho and <strong>Ronaldo</strong> brought this up after the game. Simply put as before, if you want 11 players the whole game, don’t have them go out and foul like fighters from a Cobra Kai dojo. Did Mourinho forget that his Intermilan got through the semi’s in the Champions League last year due to a controversial offside call? Mourinho can dish it out, but can’t take it on the chin. Not only is he ruining his own creditability, but he is doing the same with Madrid. As of the this writing, Madrid is being investigated on five accounts related to UEFA Disciplinary Regulations for throwing of missiles, a pitch invasion, Pepe’s red card, José Mourinho’s dismissal, and Mourinho’s statements to the media after the game, while Barca’s José Pinto’s is being investigated for fighting at half time.</p>
<p>Did Pep Guardiola rub it in by subbing in <strong>Sergi Roberto</strong> with a minute to go?</p>
<p>Don’t know who is Sergi Roberto? Don’t worry, you shouldn’t. The youngster from Barca’s youth academy has only played 25 minutes in the cup against Ceuta. On the surface, this was a statement that Barcelona develops its own players compared to <strong>Florentino Perez</strong>’s Madrid buying them. Barca started seven players that were developed at <strong>La Masia</strong>, <strong>Victor Valdés</strong>, <strong>Gerard Piqué</strong>, <strong>Carles Puyol</strong>, Busquets, <strong>Xavi</strong>, Pedro, and Messi. And four of their seven substitutes came the same route, <strong>Jeffrén Suárez</strong>, <strong>Thiago</strong> ,<strong>Antonio Fontás</strong>, and <strong>Roberto</strong>. Roberto’s substitution, however, meant something deeper between Guardiola and Mourinho. Roberto’s entrance in the game was a message to Mourinho that he was once part of the Barca family and never will be again. Roberto’s youth and innocence could not be more contrary to Mourinho’s Machavellian mind games</p>
<p><em>Stephen Kuzner is a Baltimore-based Blogger for WorldFootballDaily.com who specializes in La Liga. You can reach him on Facebook at facebook.com/BarcaBlogger or Twitter at @twitter.com/BarcaBlogger.</em></p>
By Stephen Kuzner, WFD La Liga Blogger
2011-04-28T21:59:00Z
Can Barca be stopped?
Guest Blogger
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Can-Barca-be-stopped/-692306021516836571.html
2011-04-27T19:55:00Z
2011-04-27T19:55:00Z
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: small;">As anyone with even the slightest interest in football will tell you Barcelona are the team to beat in this year's Champions League, but that doesn't mean they already have one hand on the trophy.</span></span>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: small;">They've navigated their way to the semi-final stage of the tournament without too many problems, but know they face a tricky tie against their fiercest rivals Real Madrid.</span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: small;">In the early part of the season Barca seemed to have the better of Jose Mourinho's side, but Real's win in Copa del Rey certainly indicates that the former Chelsea boss is in with a chance of overcoming the Catalan side, even if the </span></span><a href="http://betting.betfred.com/category/sport-betting-news/football-betting/" target="_blank"><strong><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: small;">Champions League betting</span></span></strong></a><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://betting.betfred.com/category/sport-betting-news/football-betting/" target="_blank"></a> doesn't make his side favourites.</span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: small;">Perhaps the biggest worry for Real is the fact that they will have to do the business in not one, but two games. As Arsenal proved earlier in the season it's perfectly possible to take a lead into the second leg of a Champions League tie, but holding on to it is a different matter entirely. No one will know this better than Mourinho after his Inter Milan side only just held on to a first leg lead at the semi final stage last season.</span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: small;">Barcelona's style of play is so efficient, and they keep the ball so well, it's almost impossible to get the better of them over two games as their opponents can barely afford to make a single mistake over the course of 180 minutes. Those looking to </span></span><a href="http://betting.betfred.com/713/sport-betting-news/football-betting/barca-suffer-midfielder-blow/" target="_blank"><strong><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: small;">bet on Champions League winner</span></span></strong></a><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: small;"> should bear this in mind.</span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: small;">With this in mind, Mourinho will no doubt look to stifle the acting threat Barca have in spades. If he fails to do so, then whoever they meet in the final will have the best possible opportunity of stopping Barcelona's seemingly unstoppable charge towards Champions League glory.</span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: small;">As Arsenal showed earlier in the year anything can happen over the space of 90 minutes. Barcelona are very good, but they're not unbeatable.</span></span></p>
Guest Blogger
2011-04-27T19:55:00Z
The Importance of Being Benny: How Feilhaber's MLS move reveals greater trend in American soccer
Cody Worsham
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/The-Importance-of-Being-Benny:-How-Feilhabers-MLS-move-reveals-greater-trend-in-American-soccer/305421655821957156.html
2011-04-27T02:01:00Z
2011-04-27T02:01:00Z
<strong></strong>
<p>I’ve never been much of a Benny Feilhaber fan.</p>
<p>Granted, I’ll always have some love for the guy after his 2007 Gold Cup golazo. Not only was his 73<sup>rd</sup> minute volley a moment of technical brilliance, but it also stands as one the most important – and underrated – goals in American history. Without it, the Americans likely miss out on the 2009 Confederations Cup, meaning no upset of Spain and no pre-World Cup tune up.</p>
<p>But that strike aside, Feilhaber’s inconsistency in the national team has not helped endear him to my good graces. One game he’s a world beater, but the next he vanishes. His poor play in South Africa led to several broken lamps in my living room, for what it’s worth (doing my best to avoid “Fail” puns here, folks).</p>
<p>Still, when I found out Feilhaber was on his way back to Major League Soccer last week, I couldn’t help but get excited. Here’s a regular international, in his prime, coming back to play his trade in the States. I firmly believe that if MLS is going to continue to grow <em>domestically</em>, it takes as many Feilhabers and Jay DeMerits inspiring local markets of fans and young players as it does Theirry Henrys and (swallowing vomit) David Beckhams. Stronger players make for a stronger league, especially when those players have international experience.</p>
<p>Now, I’m certainly aware of the opposition to that sentiment. Hell, my good buddy Steve Cherundolo spoke out last week on the importance of American players moving abroad to develop their games, citing the importance those leagues’ relegation threats places on each game, as opposed to the sometimes casualness associated with many MLS matches.</p>
<p>I agree with Stevey C., for the most part. Yes, Stu Holden’s move to Bolton brought him to the forefront of the national squad, and Clint Dempsey, Tim Howard, and Carlos Bocanegra head up the lengthy list of MLS’ers whose international moves made all of U.S. soccer better.</p>
<p>But all of those players, Holden excepted, grew up in a different age of MLS. Before Beckham, the league was all export, and no import. We sent players abroad to grow, while the fledgling league sought to find its feet.</p>
<p>In the age of the DP, however, MLS has begun bringing in quality. I’ll concede that Henry, Rafa Marquez, Omar Bravo, and several other big DP signings are past their primes. But the experience and knowledge they bring to the field – not to mention the oodles of media attention and attendance revenues they generate – have removed the Mickey Mouse ears from the league.</p>
<p>No longer is America a soccer colony of raw goods, exported to more mature markets for refinement. We’re now developing our own quality players, building youth academies, graduating homegrown players into first teams. In short, we’re taking the steps toward international prominence – developing a national infrastructure, organizing player development, and producing a quality product on the pitch.</p>
<p>Change won’t come overnight. Barring a miracle, the Yanks won’t hoist the 2014 World Cup in Brazil. But the necessary steps are being made, and the leap from 10 years ago to now is worth noting.</p>
<p>So how does Feilhaber fit into all of this? In short, his return to MLS highlights a broader trend in American soccer. To be a regular international, to play in Gold Cups and qualifiers, to be on Bob Bradley’s list of favorites, you’ve got to play. Period.</p>
<p>No longer is being a “European player” prestigious enough for a call up. The days of Frank Simek and Bobby Convey getting call ups just because they play in England are done. Bob Bradley has enough talent to choose from that he’s able to pick players who are getting regular time, regardless of where they are playing. That includes MLS players – just ask Edson Buddle, who was a World Cup player while tallying goal after goal for the Galaxy, but is now an afterthought as a bench player in the German second division.</p>
<p>Feilhaber, like Charlie Davies and Jay DeMerit, saw the emerging depth in the international pool. Perhaps if Benny were a younger, developing player, remaining abroad would have served him well. But, like Davies, DeMerit, and even the appositional Buddle, Feilhaber’s technical abilities have little room for growth. For these veterans, playing time in a good league is more important than practice time in a “European” league.</p>
<p>Feilhaber is a microcosm of the increase in reputation MLS is earning among the older aspiring internationals. I wish the best of luck to the Alejandro Bedoyas and Connor Doyles of U.S. Soccer, whose development would greatly benefit from time abroad. But those players on the other side of 25 should heed the call home.</p>
<p>And if Feilhaber’s debut for New England is any indicator, his chances of making this summer’s Gold Cup roster, particular in Holden’s absence, are much increased. Eddie Johnson, Ricardo Clark, and (gasp!) Freddy Adu would do well to take note.</p>
<p>I don’t doubt European moves are best for many players. But playing in Europe for the sake of playing in Europe is sillier than a rain coat in the Kalahari. As MLS is slowly, but surely, emerging as one of the best leagues in the Western Hemisphere, it’s time for some of our exports to return home.</p>
Cody Worsham
2011-04-27T02:01:00Z
Mancini delighted with Dzeko
Thomas Rooney
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Mancini-delighted-with-Dzeko/882365189580538724.html
2011-04-26T19:48:00Z
2011-04-26T19:48:00Z
<span style="color: #464646;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Following his first Premier League goal for the club at the weekend, Edin Dzeko has been praised by Manchester City manager Roberto Mancini.</span></span>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0.14in;"><a name="OBJ_PREFIX_DWT400_com_zimbra_date"></a> <span style="color: #464646;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The Bosnian striker had scored two FA Cup and two Europa League goals before yesterday’s strike, but he will be massively relieved to have netted his first Premier League strike.</span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0.14in;"><span style="color: #464646;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Dzeko’s goal was enough for a crucial three points in the race for a Champions League spot too, so there is no wonder he and Mancini were happy with life after the game against Blackburn Rovers.</span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0.14in;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="color: #464646;">The Manchester City boss said: “I'm very happy for Edin because he deserves to score, he is a good player and a good man</span>. I am sure it will help his confidence. Edin is a fantastic striker.”</span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0.14in;"><span style="color: #464646;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The former Wolsburg man had previously gone nine league games without a goal and was in and out of the side a fair amount. This didn’t help his cause according to Mancini.</span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0.12in; line-height: 0.23in;"><a name="OBJ_PREFIX_DWT401_com_zimbra_date"></a><a name="OBJ_PREFIX_DWT402_com_zimbra_date"></a> <span style="color: #464646;">“<span style="font-family: Calibri,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">He had problems with not playing some games and had difficulties not scoring but tonight he scored an important goal for us. It was not easy for him so I will enjoy tonight.”</span></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0.14in;"><span style="color: #464646;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">With Carlos Tevez injured at the moment, much emphasis is on the other strikers at the club and Mancini believes it is very important for the team that Dzeko has opened his Premier League account. </span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0.14in;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="color: #464646;">He also reserved praised for Mario Balotelli</span>, saying the Italian was ‘fantastic’ at Ewood Park, so he was extremely content after the hard fought win and believes his team are in good shape to secure a Champions League place this season.</span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0.14in;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="color: #464646;">Mancini continued: “It was a very big win, especially as it was away from home, because at this stage every game is difficult. We found it difficult to play football but we deserved to win.</span>”</span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0.14in;"><a name="OBJ_PREFIX_DWT403_com_zimbra_url"></a> <span style="color: #464646;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">As things stand, the Eastlands club sit four points above Tottenham in the race for 4</span></span><span style="color: #464646;"><sup><span style="font-family: Calibri;">th</span></sup></span><span style="color: #464646;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> place and those who </span></span><a href="http://www.free-bet-finder.com/betting_sites_accepting_paypal.php" target="_blank"><span style="color: #464646;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>bet with paypal</strong></span></span></a><span style="color: #464646;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><a href="http://www.free-bet-finder.com/betting_sites_accepting_paypal.php" target="_blank"></a> will note that they are favourites to stay where they are.</span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0.14in;"><span style="color: #464646;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Although their lead may seem a comfortable one with five games to go, City face Spurs next month, so there are plenty of twists and turns to come.</span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0.14in;"><span style="color: #464646;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Before the visit of Harry Redknapp’s men, Mancini sees his side take on West Ham and Everton. </span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0.14in;"><span style="color: #464646;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">He will be hoping that Dzeko and Balotelli remain in form for these games to possibly increase the gap on Spurs before the crucial clash at Eastlands.</span></span></p>
Thomas Rooney
2011-04-26T19:48:00Z
Mehdi's Serie A Round 34 Recap
Mehdi
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Mehdis-Serie-A-Round-34-Recap/-821827669773613785.html
2011-04-26T16:20:00Z
2011-04-26T16:20:00Z
<strong></strong><br /><br /> <strong>ROMA </strong>1 (Perrotta 4)<br /> <strong>CHIEVO</strong> 0<br /><br /> <strong>Attendance</strong>: 20,000<br /> <strong>Assist</strong>: De Rossi<br /><br /><br /> <strong>BARI</strong> 0<br /> <strong>SAMPDORIA </strong>1 (Pozzi 59 Pen)<br /><br /> <strong>Attendance</strong>: 20,000<br /> <strong>Red Card:</strong> Poli 93 (Sampdoria)<br /> <strong>Assist</strong>: Poli (won pen)<br /><br /><br /> <strong>BOLOGNA</strong> 0<br /> <strong>CESENA</strong> 2 (Giaccherini 48, Malonga 84)<br /><br /> Given Bologna gave up once they hit the 40 point target this was a great opportunity for Cesena to claim a rare away victory. Bologna were unlucky not to lead at half time. Viviano saved from Jimenez but parried the ball straight out to Giaccherini, his first shot was charged down by Rubin but he made no mistake on the rebound, hammering it high into the top left corner. Malonga, Cesena's physically imposing 22 year old French striker, headed down a crossfield pass before nutmegging Viviano. Great finish and a massive three points for Cesena.<br /><br /> If Cesena stay up they'll do well to hold onto jet healed Giaccherini and Parolo, who has been linked with a move to Milan.<br /><br /> <strong>Attendance</strong>: 21,458<br /> <strong>Assists</strong>: n/a, Caserta<br /><br /><br /> <strong>CAGLIARI</strong> 1 (Cossu 46)<br /> <strong>FIORENTINA</strong> 2 (Cerci 46, Cerci 50)<br /><br /> Mutu tried to clip a ball over the top of the Cagliari defence only Gilardino didn't move so the ball whacked him in the head and came back to the Romanian. Mutu decided to go the other way and passed to Cerci, the perm haired turned and fired a grass cutter past Agazzi. Cossu scored a fantastic equaliser a minute into the second half, a 25 yard left foot half volley which arrowed inside the left post. Cerci scrambled Fiorentina back into the lead four minutes later. Boruc denied Acquafresca late on but it would have been hard on Fiorentina who were well worth their three points.<br /><br /> <strong>Attendance</strong>: 8,000<br /> <strong>Assists</strong>: Mutu, Acquafresca, n/a <br /><br /><br /> <strong>GENOA</strong> 4 (Floro Flores 10, Palacio 42, Palacio 54, Floro Flores 61)<br /> <strong>LECCE</strong> 2 (Di Michele 3, Di Michele 30)<br /><br /> Di Michele gave Lecce the lead with a magnificent strike from way out wide left of goal into the top right corner. Lecce's offside trap passed on the chance to hold their lead, leaving Floro Flores with a tap-in. Di Michele restored Lecce's lead from a corner. Palacio levelled from close range following a goalmouth scramble. His second was a near post header and Floro Flores turned in a Criscito centre at the back post to also complete a brace.<br /><br /> This was the return of the old Genoa, just like how they played under Gandalf Gasperini who I think would be a great fit for Fiorentina.<br /><br /> <strong>Attendance</strong>: 21,359<br /> <strong>Assists</strong>: Giacomazzi, Criscito, Munari, n/a, Milanetto (ck), Criscito<br /><br /><br /> <strong>INTER</strong> 2 (Sneijder 40 fk, Eto'o 54)<br /> <strong>LAZIO</strong> 1 (Zarate 24 Pen)<br /><br /> Julio Cesar took out Zarate to concede a penalty and earn a red card. Lazio failed to make their man advantage count and Sneijder equalised late in the half with a superb free kick. Zanetti pumped a longball between Biava and Dias towards Eto'o, Biava slipped and Eto'o ran through to round Muslera and tap into an empty net. Lazio's chance of getting back into the game ended when Mauri was sent off for kicking out in frustration after Nagatomo forced him off the ball.<br /><br /> <strong>Attendance</strong>: 57,830<br /> <strong>Red Cards</strong>: Julio Cesar 22 (Inter), Mauri 66 (Lazio)<br /> <strong>Assists</strong>: Zarate (won pen), Eto'o (won fk), Zanetti<br /><br /><br /> <strong>PALERMO</strong> 2 (Balzaretti 38, Bovo 46 Pen)<br /> <strong>NAPOLI</strong> 1 (Cavani 2 Pen)<br /><br /> Cassani conceded a penalty with a volleyball spike but Palermo fought back brilliantly to kill off any lingering hopes Napoli had of winning the scudetto. Napoli survived penalty appeals of their own before Balzaretti slammed home the equaliser after fellow fullback Cassani overcooked his cross. Migliaccio was about to pull the trigger after running onto Pastore's outrageous back heal volley before Maggio tripped him. Palermo should have scored four, and had another penalty.<br /><br /> <strong>Attendance</strong>: 26,778<br /> <strong>Red Card</strong>: Delio Rossi 41 (Palermo)<br /> <strong>Assists</strong>: n/a, Casani, Migliaccio<br /><br /><br /> <strong>UDINESE</strong> 0<br /> <strong>PARMA</strong> 2 (Amauri 14, Amauri 91)<br /><br /> Amauri, who looks like pornstar Zenza Raggi, got between two defenders to head in a superb Giovinco cross. Having helped end Napoli's scudetto hopes last week Inler made what could be an equally damaging blow to his own team's Champions League hopes with a stupid red card. He fouled Giovinco and as the ref was showing him a yellow card he went chest to chest which earned him a red. Amauri looked miles offside as he ran down a longball and beat Belardi. It has been coming.<br /><br /> A massive and unexpected three points for Parma. Another win and they're safe only next up they host in- form Palermo.<br /><br /> <strong>Attendance</strong>: 18,000<br /> <strong>Red Card</strong>: Inler 21 (Udinese)<br /> <strong>Assists</strong>: Giovinco, Gobbi<br /><br /><br /> <strong>BRESCIA</strong> 0<br /> <strong>MILAN</strong> 1 (Robinho 82)<br /><br /> When Milan celebrate winning the scudetto they'll look back to this match as the one that sealed it. Abbiati made an incredible one handed save with his left arm to parry a Diamanti free kick against the crossbar, Bega sliced the rebound away from goal and Zambrotta cleared. A minute later Milan countered as Brescia began to throw more and more men forward in search of a goal. Seedorf turned onto a Thiago Silva pass and clipped a glorious 50 yard pass to Cassano who, naturally, killed the ball stone dead with the greatest first touch the game has seen since the days of Maradona, before playing a perfectly weighted pass to the onrushing Robinho who waited for Arcari to come off his line before tapping into the bottom corner. Abbiati made another amazing save to deny Diamanti.<br /><br /> <strong>Attendance</strong>: 23,000<br /> <strong>Assist</strong>: Cassano<br /><br /><br /> <strong>JUVENTUS</strong> 2 (Del Piero 19 Pen, Del Piero 37)<br /> <strong>CATANIA</strong> 2 (Gomez 81, Lodi 91 fk)<br /><br /> Del Piero converted a soft penalty to score league goal #205. #206 followed a Krasic cross, which deflected off a defender, hit Del Piero in the chest and bounced past Andujar. Having went into the break with a two goal lead Juve should have gone on to complete an easy victory and God knows there haven't been many of them in recent months. Catania won a free kick deep in their own half, Lodi swapped passes with a team-mate while waiting for a runner, Ricchiuti, who released Bergessio on the overlook, Bergessio centred and Gomez tapped in at the back post. With the last kick of the game dead ball specialist Lodi curled a fantastic free kick inside the left post, Buffon didn't even move. You should have seen the look on his face.<br /><br /> I left at half time to bake a cake and this happens.<br /><br /> <strong>Attendance</strong>: 23,411<br /> <strong>Assists</strong>: n/a, n/a, Bergessio, n/a<br />
Mehdi
2011-04-26T16:20:00Z
McGregor Saves Rangers' Title Hopes
Sandy Thin
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/McGregor-Saves-Rangers-Title-Hopes/-444951045982405011.html
2011-04-26T16:00:00Z
2011-04-26T16:00:00Z
<p>The Rangers number one pulled out a spectacular penalty save from Georgios Samaras to maintain the blues hopes of retaining the league for the third successive year. The goalless draw at Ibrox puts Rangers a point ahead of Celtic, who still have 6 games remaining while Rangers have only five. This means if the Bhoys win all their remaining fixtures Neil Lennon will lift his first trophy as a manager.</p>
<p>The first half failed to excite, with Rangers dominating the chances, with attempts from Naismith and Lafferty coming close but failing to trouble Fraser Forster in the Celtic goals. The atmosphere, which is always incredible in Old Firm encounters, rocketed in the eighteenth minute when the 10,000 travelling fans began their tribute to Lennon, who had earlier in the week been targeted, along with two other famous Celtic fans, by parcel bombs. These chants sparked a war of cheers and jeers between the two sets of fans which lasted several minutes longer than the intended one.</p>
<p>In the second half, the pace of the match increased, with both sides coming close to scoring on a number of occasions before referee Craig Thompson controversially pointed to the spot ten minutes from time following what appeared to be a soft challenge by Steven Davis on Anthony Stokes. However, justice was done as McGregor saved Samaras’ penalty which some critics may say would have been better taken by either Stokes or Commons.</p>
<p>Elsewhere in the league, Saturday provided two six-goal-thrillers with Hearts giving up a 3 goal lead to draw 3-3 with Motherwell at Tynecastle, while brilliant displays from Craig Conway and David Goodwillie saw Dundee United romp to a 4-2 victory at home to Kilmarnock, keeping them in with a shout of getting the third European spot. Hibernian and St Mirren also drew 1-1 at Easter Road in a tie which meant very little for either side.</p>
Sandy Thin
2011-04-26T16:00:00Z
Adam's Barclays Premier League Roundup
Adam Johnson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Adams-Barclays-Premier-League-Roundup/46868926214392894.html
2011-04-26T05:38:00Z
2011-04-26T05:38:00Z
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Premier League Recap (April 23-25)</strong></span></p>
<p><strong>Manchester United 1-0 Everton</strong></p>
<p>If I told you before the game that this would be a decent game where both teams created chances but United looked like the more likely to score and they eventually would late in the game, would you be all that surprised? Well, if you would have said yes then I don’t know what team you have watched this year. Tim Howard was in top form but it was Chicharito who would beat him with a header with just over 5 minutes to play. Manchester United does it again.</p>
<p><strong>Wolves 1-1 Fulham</strong></p>
<p>Fletcher (Wolves) in the 21<sup>st</sup> and Johnson (Fulham) in the 80<sup>th</sup> is all you need to know here.</p>
<p><strong>Tottenham 2-2 West Brom</strong></p>
<p>One of my new favorite players, Peter Odemwingie, scored the matches first goal for West Brom with a curling left footed strike. The left foot was again in play for a forward when Roman Pavlyuchenko tied it with his left peg, 1-1 at halftime. The game continued to be open and lively and Spurs took the lead through Jermaine Defoe, with you guessed it, his left foot. Finally a goal was scored with a right foot, and what a goal it was. Simon Cox came on for West Brom and scored his first Premier League goal on a brilliant shot that curled into the top corner. A point for each side.</p>
<p><strong>Aston Villa 1-1 Stoke City</strong></p>
<p>Fresh off of their dream performance at Wembley last week, Stoke could only get a point at Villa Park. The strikers for each club, Kenwyne Jones then Darren Bent, each headed one home to earn their respective teams a point.</p>
<p><strong>Blackpool 1-1 Newcastle</strong></p>
<p>Blackpool could have really used a win at home but a draw will have to do for Holloway’s men. Joey Barton scored first for Newcastle but it was DJ Campbell who continued his good run of form with the equalizer. Blackpool came at Newcastle in waves but simply couldn’t find a winner.</p>
<p><strong>Sunderland 4-2 Wigan</strong></p>
<p>It was a must win for Sunderland if they didn’t want to get dragged into the drop zone. While the match was 0-0 at the half, we would have no shortage of goals in the second half. Diame rifled home the opener for Wigan in the 52<sup>nd</sup> minute but Asamoah Gyan, who has struggled recently, got Sunderland back on track. Gyan then went out with a hamstring injury but Sulley Muntari and Jordan Henderson hooked up to give Sundrland the lead. The lead would be stretched when Stephen Sessegnon converted the weak penalty he drew and then Henderson got himself a second. Former Chelsea boy, Franco di Santo got a consolation goal but it was a massive three points for the home side.</p>
<p><strong>Liverpool 5-0 Birmingham</strong></p>
<p>This was the largest margin for Liverpool in awhile and certainly the biggest since Kenny Dalglish took over. Maxi Rodriguez had his best game in red, netting a hat trick while Dirk Kuyt scored again and oddly enough, Joe Cole got a goal when his shot was spilled in by Birmingham’s backup keeper, Doyle. Anfield is beginning to see the start of a pretty good team.</p>
<p><strong>Chelsea 3-0 West Ham</strong></p>
<p>Chelsea is making a late charge towards United with another three points but the big story from this game is the Fernando Torres finally scored for his new club. His goal was the second of the day, but it was Frank Lampard who struck first to give the Blues a halftime lead. West Ham started to create chances but Chelsea got the Torres goal and eventually it was Florent Malouda who would make it three goals and three points.</p>
<p><strong>Bolton 2-1 Arsenal</strong></p>
<p>Wow, this Arsenal team just finds new ways to screw up every week it seems. Danny Sturridge got the opener for Bolton but Arsenal responded well to their credit. Arsenal, once again, had plenty of opportunities but they could not get a goal. Bolton got a weak penalty but Kevin Davies penalty kick was even weaker. Robin van Persie then scored after some nice link up play with Samir Nasri to tie at 1 all. It stayed at 1-1 until, inevitably, Arsenal gave up a soft goal from a corner that Tamir Cohen headed home. Arsene Wenger goes home a defeated man.</p>
<p><strong>Blackburn 0-1 Manchester City</strong></p>
<p>City needed a win if they were going to take full advantage of Tottenham dropping points against West Brom, and a win is what they got. 0-0 at the break, it was Edin Dzeko who came on for Adam Johnson and it paid immediate dividends with a goal in the 74<sup>th</sup> minute. This is Dzeko’s best moment for City so far and an even bigger one for City.</p>
So Chelsea is clearly in second and Arsenal continues to free fall. Chelsea will be rooting hard for their crosstown rivals against United, however, this upcoming weekend. Liverpool is looking great and Man City may bore us all to fourth place. There are two midweek games
<p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><br /></span></strong></p>
Adam Johnson
2011-04-26T05:38:00Z
La Liga Week 33: 9 Team Relegation Battle?
By Stephen Kuzner, WFD La Liga Blogger
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/La-Liga-Week-33:-9-Team-Relegation-Battle/-957475052126099867.html
2011-04-26T02:19:00Z
2011-04-26T02:19:00Z
<p>With five match weeks left in La Liga, this is the time to take a look at the relegation battle. <strong>Real Madrid</strong> probably won’t catch <strong>Barcelona</strong>. <strong>Athletic Bilbao</strong> will need to win-out and have <strong>Villarreal</strong> really tank in the league to have any change in the Champions League spots. There is three team battle for Europa League spots with Bilbao, <strong>Sevilla</strong>, and <strong>Atlético Madrid</strong>. But what really intrigues me is that right now there are nine teams at least within six points of the drop zone. It’ so tight, you could see 19 teams with forty or more points. Take a look at the table below.</p>
<p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Table</span></strong></p>
<p>1. <strong>Barcelona</strong> (88) Three wins gets the La Liga title.<br />2. <strong>Real Madrid</strong> (80) Although 2<sup>nd</sup> on table, may have UCL momentum advantage.<br />3. <strong>Valencia</strong> (63) Probably safe in a UCL spot, but Athletic has eyes on UCL too.<br />4. <strong>Villarreal</strong> (57) Can they win Europa League and keep UCL spot for next year?<br />5. <span style="text-decoration: underline;">Athletic</span> (51) They are going to make it interesting for Valencia and Villarreal.<br />6. <span style="text-decoration: underline;">Sevilla</span> (49) This week’s win was a week or two too late for UCL hopes.<br />7. Atlético (49) Sevilla better watch themselves. Agüero’s on fire.<br />8. Espanyol (45) Won’t catch Sevilla or Atlético. Time to continue playing youth.<br />9. Mallorca (42) Watch them slide next few weeks. Not much to play for.<br />10. Levante (42) They are probably safe now. Great 1<sup>st</sup> season back in La Liga.<br />11. Sporting (41) Safe? Don’t be so sure. Only 6 points from drop zone.<br />12. Real Sociedad (38) Tough loss in Basque derby. 4 points from safety.<br />13. Deportivo (38) Loss to Hercules really hurt. They really need to right the ship.<br />14. Getafe (37) Loss to Mallorca? That needs to be a win if they want to stay up.<br />15. Racing (37) Málaga wanted it more. Need to go .500 to survive now.<br />16. Málaga (36) Will Baptista’s momentum continue carry them up?<br />17. R Zaragoza (36) Critical win this week. They need 2 wins in five to survive..<br />18. <strong>Osasuna</strong> (35) There last 5 games pretty much means relegation.<br />19. <strong>Hercules</strong> (33) Win at<strong> </strong>La Coruña means there is a chance…like Dumb & Dumber?<br />20. <strong>Almeria</strong> (26) Can they win 5 in a row? No.</p>
<p>But, does <strong>Sporting Gijon</strong> have much to worry about six points clear of <strong>Osasuna</strong> considering Osasuna’s current form of four losses in a row and probably the most difficult schedule of the nine teams. No, I doubt it. Thing is though, only four teams have let in less goals that Osasuna’s 41. I like my chances in a scrap with the scrappier team. It’s worth it to take a look to see how these nine teams will close out the season. Below, we have the predicted season ending points and last five games for all those that should be worried about relegation.</p>
<p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Almeria</span></strong><strong> </strong>(26 pts)<br />@ Sevilla (L)<br />Getafe (L)<br />@ Villarreal (L)<br />@ Mallorca (L)<br />Real Madrid (L)</p>
<p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Hercules</span></strong><strong> </strong>(39 pts)<br />Malaga (L)<br />Racing (L)<br />Mallocra (W)<br />@ Atlético Madrid (L)<br />Sporting Gijon (W)</p>
<p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Osasuna</span></strong> (40 pts)<br />Valencia (D)<br />@ Real Zaragoza (L)<br />Sevilla (L)<br />@ Getafe (D)<br />Villarreal (W)</p>
<p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Real Zaragoza</span></strong> (43 pts)<br />@ Real Madrid (L)<br />Osasuna (W)<br />@ Real Sociedad (D)<br />Espanyol (W)<br />@ Levante (L)</p>
<p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Málaga</span></strong> (42 pts)<br />Hercules (W)<br />Atlético Madrid (L)<br />Sporting Gijon (W)<br />@ Athletic Bilbao (L)<br />@ Barcelona (L)</p>
<p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Racing Santander</span></strong> (43 pts)<br />Mallorca (W)<br />@ Hercules (W)<br />Atlético Madrid (L)<br />Sporting Gijon (L)<br />Athletic Bilbao (L)</p>
<p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Getafe</span></strong> (41 pts)<br />@ Villarreal (L)<br />Almeria (W)<br />Real Madrid (L)<br />Osasuna (D)<br />Real Sociedad (L)</p>
<p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Deportivo</span></strong> (42 pts)<br />Atlético Madrid (L)<br />Sporting Gijon (D)<br />Athletic Bilbao (L)<br />@ Barcelona (L)<br />Valencia (W)</p>
<p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Real Sociedad</span></strong> (42 pts)<br />FC Barcelona (L)<br />@ Valencia (L)<br />@ Real Zaragoza (D)<br />Sevilla (L)<br />Getafe (W)</p>
<p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Sporting Gijon</span></strong> (45 pts)<br />@ Levante (L)<br />Deportivo (D)<br />@ Malaga (L)<br />Racing Santander (W)<br />Hercules (L)</p>
<p>Well, it looks like we’ll still see <strong>Osasuna</strong>, <strong>Hercules</strong>, and <strong>Almeria</strong> going down. Something to take note of though, is that a lot will be riding on the final week. <strong>Deportivo</strong> and <strong>Real Sociedad</strong> will probably be fighting off Osasuna and Hercules until the bitter end. What happened this week? This is what happened this week.</p>
<p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Scores</span></strong></p>
<p><strong>Real Zaragoza</strong> vs. <strong>Almeria</strong>| Diego Alves (o70')<br /><strong>Atlético </strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">4-1</span> <strong>Levante</strong> | Elias (19'), Agüero (50 & 70'), Munua (o84'), Caicedo (39')<br /><strong>Hercules</strong> <span style="text-decoration: underline;">1-0</span> <strong>Deportivo La Coruña</strong>| Tiago Gomes (60')<br /><strong>Racing Santander</strong> <span style="text-decoration: underline;">1-2</span> <strong>Málaga</strong> | Baptista (32'), Fernández (35'), Rosenberg (73')<br /><strong>Sporting Gijon</strong> <span style="text-decoration: underline;">1-0</span> <strong>Espanyol</strong> | Nacho Novo (71')<br /><strong>Mallorca</strong> <span style="text-decoration: underline;">2-0</span> <strong>Getafe</strong> | Nunes (25'), Akihiro Ienaga (67')<br /><strong>Barcelona</strong> <span style="text-decoration: underline;">2-0</span> <strong>Osasuna</strong> | David Villa (24'), Lionel Messi (87')<br /><strong><br />Valencia</strong> <span style="text-decoration: underline;">3-6</span> <strong>Real Madrid</strong> | Soldado (60'), Jonas (80'), Alba (84'), Benzema (23'), Gonzalo Higuaín (31', 42', & 53') Kaká (39' & 62')<br /><strong><br />Sevilla</strong> <span style="text-decoration: underline;">3-2</span> <strong>Villarreal</strong> | Rakitic (9'), Negredo (14'), Romaric (62'), Marchena (56'), Rossi (73')</p>
<p><em>Stephen Kuzner is a Baltimore-based Blogger for WorldFootballDaily.com who specializes in La Liga. You can reach him on Facebook at facebook.com/BarcaBlogger or Twitter at @twitter.com/BarcaBlogger.</em></p>
<p> </p>
By Stephen Kuzner, WFD La Liga Blogger
2011-04-26T02:19:00Z
Di Benedetto's Takeover of Roma Marks a New Era for Calcio
Frank Tigani - serieaweekly.com
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Di-Benedettos-Takeover-of-Roma-Marks-a-New-Era-for-Calcio/283474322166286949.html
2011-04-22T12:20:00Z
2011-04-22T12:20:00Z
For Italian football the last five years have been troublesome. Forget the triumphs of Inter and Milan in the Champions League, Calcio has been falling behind in Europe in more ways than one. Financially, it is light years behind the successes of the English Premier League. In popularity, no Italian club enjoys the attention of so many fans that either of the two Spanish heavyweights, Barcelona and Real Madrid, both demand. This season even the Bundesliga has eclipsed the Serie A in the UEFA Coefficient Rankings. <br /><br /><br /> But, just as it happened seventy years ago when the Americans arrived on the peninsula to augur in a brighter future, the arrival of the American tycoon Thomas Di Benedetto as Roma’s new owner promises just as much for the future of Calcio. <br /><br /><br /> Italian football has been in need of some positive change for some time now. The game has needed new ideas, new stadiums and, most importantly, new financial resources. Di Benedetto’s arrival in Italy as the new President of AS Roma promises to deliver on all these three fronts. <br /><br /><br /> Talking at his first press conference, the American with Italian origins explained that he aimed to have the same impact and success that Silvio Berlusconi has enjoyed since overtaking Milan back in the mid 1980’s. It is an ambitions statement of intent that is for sure. As the boss of Milan, Berlusconi has become one of the most successful club President’s the game has ever seen. One imagines that if Di Benedetto can guide Roma to half that success, its fans will be more than pleased. <br /><br /><br /> One idea that Di Benedetto has brought with him is his plan to develop local talent in the Rome region. This is an idea that resembles that implemented when Barcelona built their now famous La Masia youth academy. The Catalan club’s aim was to produce local Catalan talent and today it is clear that the club has achieved this with resounding success. <br /><br /><br /> Youth development in Italy, or lack of it, has come under focus in recent times as a result of the less than impressive displays of the Azzurri in South Africa and the seemingly lack of talent coming through the ranks. <br /><br /><br /> But, if Di Benedetto achieves his goal of producing quality young talent from the central region than it will not only serve to benefit Roma but the Italian national team also. Italian football will be the real winner. <br /><br /><br /> The game of football is slowly changing and next year UEFA is set to introduce a system of financial fair play rules that will make it hard for clubs to spend big. Therefore, the American’s plan to focus on youth is perceptive. No longer will new owners be able to buy football clubs and spend their way to success, like Roman Ambramovich has done with Chelsea. Instead, youth development will become a more important focus for any club wishing to maintain a competitive team and this is what Di Benedetto plans to do with Roma. <br /><br /><br /> Nonetheless, as the takeover of Roma slowly came to its successful conclusion there had been much talk of star players the club is now interested in signing. While the club will have to consider the new rules of play, it appears that Di Benedetto remains keen to bring in a few star players to fasten the process of building a strong Roma team. Financial resources will not be a problem to do this. <br /><br /><br /> In recent years as the state of the Italian game has slowly declined, the world’s best players have become increasingly attracted to playing elsewhere, particularly, in England and Spain. But, with the financial resources Di Benedetto will bring with him, playing on the peninsula may become more attractive again for the game’s stars. It may also prove to be the catalyst for other clubs’ to look beyond Italy for the money to bring in their own star players. Such a result would augur well for the Italian game as it would help increase the quality of the game and the competitiveness of Italian clubs in Europe. <br /><br /><br /> One of Di Benedetto’s other aims is to build a new stadium for the Giallorossi. There has been much talk of plans of clubs from around the peninsula to build new stadiums. But, apart from Juventus who are in the process of building a new stadium, unfortunately, talk is about all that it has been. Admittedly, there has only been talk from the American too. But, unlike it is with Lazio, money is not a problem for Di Benedetto and therefore his promises to build a new stadium appear much more creditable. In addition, as the incoming President he will be under much more pressure to deliver on his promises. <br /><br /><br /> While Di Benedetto’s arrival in Italy promises as much as a new and brighter future for the Italian game, he will not achieve half of his goals if he is unable to navigate himself through the many obstacles, both political and legal that Italy will present to him. <br /><br /><br /> Italy is one of the most conservative countries in Europe and this transcends into the national game. Foreign ownership of an Italian club is something many Italians, particularly, some of those in the high positions of the game, will not look favourably upon. <br /><br /><br /> In addition to having to deal with a difficult administration, Di Benedetto will also have to contend with the country’s tax system which has long time the bane of Italian clubs. <br /><br /><br /> The American has set himself a tough challenge with his takeover of Roma and his ambitious statements of intent. He has delivered himself into in to the heart of a fickle national game that is rife with its trials and tribulations. But, surely, he already knew this and this can only mean that Di Benedetto is game. If this proves to be the case then certainly a new era in Calcio beckons.<br /><br /><em>Frank Tigani is a writer for Italian Football Website, Serie A Weekly.com. He is also the creator of acmilanblog.net and is a editor for the Canadian Soccer Magazine publication, 11 Players. Originally from Australia, Frank covered Australian football and Australia’s World Cup campaign during the 2010 South Africa FIFA World Cup for, just-football.com.</em><br /><br /><br /><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">You can read more from Frank Tigani on the pages of <a href="http://www.serieaweekly.com/" target="_blank">SerieAWeekly.com</a> and <a rel="nofollow" href="http://twitter.com/Frankly_T" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.serieaweekly.com/images/followmeontwitter.gif" border="0" alt="twitter link" width="160" height="27" /></a></div>
Frank Tigani - serieaweekly.com
2011-04-22T12:20:00Z
El Clásico Intermission, Did Madrid Supporters Deserve It More?
By Stephen Kuzner, WFD La Liga Blogger
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/El-Clásico-Intermission,-Did-Madrid-Supporters-Deserve-It-More/-683267206792831137.html
2011-04-21T16:52:00Z
2011-04-21T16:52:00Z
<p><strong>El Clásico Intermission, Did Madrid Supporters Deserve It More?<br /></strong>By Stephen Kuzner, WFD La Liga Blogger<br /><br />One of the best things about writing about La Liga for WFD and being a Barça supporter at the same time is writing an opinion piece about <strong>Real Madrid</strong> winning the <strong>Copa del Ray</strong> in extra time fashion over <strong>FC Barçalona</strong> in Act II of a four act El Clásico play. This hurts, but I have to do it. Maybe it’ll be cathartic.<br /><br />The first thing I have to get off my chest is regarding the supporters. WFD regular and GolTV commentator <strong>Phil Schoen</strong> mentioned during the broadcast that the Barça faithful had their culés (bottom sides) attached to their seats most of the game waiting in anticipation for that goal that just did not come. I have a major problem with my tribe that travelled to the Mestalla. Supporters should support, i.e. make noise and make an effort to elevate the team, not sit and wait with baited breath to be satiated with a goal.<br /><br />I was reminded of a trip I made to Ann Arbor to watch <strong>U. Michigan</strong> play <strong>Ohio State</strong> in girdiron. The Michigan fans at the “Big House”, one of the world’s handful of largest stadia, stayed reserved, dignified, patient. I felt like I was swimming in a quiet soothing sea of polite people. The focus on manners and respect had seemed to sap all enthusiasm out of them. It was a very depressing scene to me to see 100K+ walk from the stadium, heads down, not mentioning much after the loss to their mortal enemy, while happy, boisterous, and some obnoxious and rude Ohio State fans paraded among the Big Blue supporters.<br /><strong><br /></strong>FC Barçalona President, <strong>Sandro Rosell</strong>, congratulated Madrid and expressed his pride that Barça’s supporters “set a great example”. This may be true in relative terms to some of the venom that I saw spewing forth from Madrid’s section on my TV, but the broadcast looked and sounded like a home match for Madrid. In my mind, it’s better to be 110% vocally behind your club you whole game with a few instances of “inappropriateness” than sitting and waiting. Now, I wasn’t there so this is all second hand to me, but I’d have to say that the Madridistas deserved it more. Man, that hurts.<br /><br />So we are at intermission in this four act El Clásico play. At this point, things look bleak for Barça. The Copa del Ray was very reminiscent of the Champions League semifinals tie between Barça and<strong> Inter Milan</strong>. Madrid defended brave and brilliantly, relying much less on fouling, but more on occupying more players collectively in the spaces on which Barça passed the ball on their half of the field. This is the only method I’ve seen consistently stymie Barça.<br /><strong><br />Jose </strong><strong>Mourinho</strong>, with Inter and now with Madrid, deployed <strong>soccer’s equivalent of a</strong> <strong>half-court trap in basketball</strong>: let Barça slowly get into your half, but once then do, unleash the hounds, swarm the ball, double-team is occupant, and suffocate the short placing lanes. This tactic was remarkable in the first half. In the second half, it was less effective because of tiredness, but still got the job done.<br /><br />At the end of the next two ties, Mourinho will be lauded the best coach ever if Madrid gets through or Barça touted the best team ever if they advance. The bigger silverware lies in the next two El Clásicos. Right now, things look bleak to me for Barça. The 5-0 drubbing earlier this year now looks like it was intentional by Mourinho. It’s as if he decided to play ‘beautiful attacking’ football to have it fail so he could go back to what he does best later in the season when things mattered most. In the last two seasons, Mourinho is 2-3-2 against Barça, but you could write off two of the ties and one of the loses. Things look dark for Barça, however hope comes in passing and passing and passing again. Many times the past few years, their opponents get passed to death and broken down in the second halves of games. This is Barça’s hope for the second half of our four act El Clásico play.<br /><em><br />Stephen Kuzner is a Baltimore-based Blogger for WorldFootballDaily.com who specializes in La Liga. You can reach him on Facebook at facebook.com/BarcaBlogger or Twitter at @twitter.com/BarcaBlogger.</em> </p>
By Stephen Kuzner, WFD La Liga Blogger
2011-04-21T16:52:00Z
Hleb needs a reality check, and fast
Guest Blogger
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Hleb-needs-a-reality-check,-and-fast/460636584315955968.html
2011-04-20T05:11:00Z
2011-04-20T05:11:00Z
<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Alex Hleb is a man who hasn't experienced the best of times since leaving Arsenal. After failing miserably to break into the Barcelona first team on a regular basis, he was shipped out on loan to one of the Premier League's less successful sides where, humiliatingly, he failed to make even the slightest impact. </span></span>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">With Hleb's attitude and fitness coming under fire from the Birmingham coaching staff and management team, he's failed to show anything either on or off the pitch to suggest that he still has what it takes to play at the highest level of English (or Spanish) football. With Barcelona's midfield packed full of talent and with the club keen to recruit through the youth ranks rather than rely upon fading stars of old, it seems that Hleb's future lies away from the Nou Camp and away from Birmingham City. Those who have placed a </span></span><a href="http://news.ladbrokes.com/en-gb/football" target="_blank"><strong><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">football online bet </span></span></strong></a><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://news.ladbrokes.com/en-gb/football" target="_blank"></a> this season won't have been impressed by his attitude.</span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><img style="float: left; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/lackoffitness.jpg" alt="Lack of Fitness" />However, the question remains as to who would want someone who has not only failed to fit in at a team like Birmingham but has also failed to recognise the fact that he needs to improve his game. With Hleb clearly itching for a move back to Arsenal but stating in the press that he doesn't like to "fight and run", which life at Birmingham clearly involves more of than life at Barcelona or the Gunners, it remains </span></span><a href="http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport" target="_blank"><strong><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">to be seen whether Arsene Wenger</span></span></strong></a><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"> would want to acquire a man not willing to put in a shift or two for the good of the team.</span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Should Hleb find his level in the Premier League and prove that, with a run of games under his belt and with the right attitude, he can get back to the sort of form that made him a key man in Wenger's midfield, the league could yet benefit from another returning Arsenal star.</span></span></p>
Guest Blogger
2011-04-20T05:11:00Z
Overpowering Displays at Hampden Take Celtic and Motherwell to Scottish Cup Final
Sandy Thin
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Overpowering-Displays-at-Hampden-Take-Celtic-and-Motherwell-to-Scottish-Cup-Final/757447647605584702.html
2011-04-19T00:57:00Z
2011-04-19T00:57:00Z
Sandy Thin<br /><br />In a weekend in which regular SPL fixtures failed to impress, it was vital that the two Scottish Cup Semi-Final ties stepped up to the plate, and thankfully, they delivered. A fantastic first half display from Motherwell and a superlative second half display from Celtic saw off St Johnstone and Aberdeen respectively.<br /><br />Stephen Craigan put Motherwell ahead within the first five minutes of the match as the 34 year-old skipper headed home following the Saints’ failure to clear a well struck corner. Ten minutes later Motherwell doubled their lead as the pace and skill of Jamie Murphy proved too much for the opposition defence, weaving his way through to the box before slotting the ball low into the far bottom corner. The first half rout was completed with a stunning volley by John Sutton from 35 yards, catching Peter Enckelman by surprise and seeing off any hope the Saints had of a recovery.<br /><br />In the second Semi of the weekend, Aberdeen took on a Celtic side that had already scored 17 goals against them this season, conceding only one. Aberdeen’s luck took a turn for the worse as Andrew Considine brought SFA Player of the Year Nominee, Gary Hooper, down in the box and was duly sent off. However, Dons keeper Jamie Langfield saved Stokes’ penalty taking the teams into half time even. Charlie Mulgrew put the Bhoys ahead early in the second half, curling his free-kick over the wall and over the keeper scoring for the second time this season against his former club. A driven effort from Joe Ledley and a penalty from Kris Commons took the score to 3-0 before Shaun Maloney sealed their place in the final with a tap in, his first goal since returning from an injury that had kept him out for 4 months.<br /><br />Celtic and Motherwell will return to Hampden on the 29 May, where Celtic could face the prospect of completing a League and Cup double for the first time since 2007. If the weekend’s football is anything to go by however, Celtic will have no easy job defeating a Motherwell side that will be looking to win their first piece of silverware in 20 years.<br />In the SPL, a second half penalty from Stephen Whittaker gave Rangers a 2-1 victory over St Mirren, taking them a point clear off Celtic, who have a game in hand, and leaving the champions to essentially be decided on the Easter Sunday winner-takes-all Old Firm match next week. Elsewhere, Hearts and Inverness drew 1-1 and Hamilton beat Hibs 2-1 to maintain the glimmer of hope that still remains with the Accies that they may avoid relegation from the League. <br />
Sandy Thin
2011-04-19T00:57:00Z
Mourinho succeeds in soiling El Classico glamour
Guest Blogger
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Mourinho-succeeds-in-soiling-El-Classico-glamour/876819512604018199.html
2011-04-18T15:37:00Z
2011-04-18T15:37:00Z
<span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;">You knew something had to be awry if Lionel Messi found himself involved in a controversial incident during the 1-1 draw between Real Madrid and Barcelona on Saturday night.</span></span>
<p><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;">The quiet yet deadly Argentinian grew in frustration as the usual bully-boy tactics that confront him around the depths of La Liga found him on the grandest of stages and against the grandest of opponents. </span></span></p>
<p><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;">He revealed himself to be human by retorting after being hacked at yet again. Lashing the ball into the partisan Madrid crowd, whose faces were contorted in anger and disdain for the man that walked on water to help his side beat Los Blancos 5-0 earlier in the season, a performance described as one of the greatest ever.</span></span></p>
<p><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;">Cue the waving of imaginary cards.</span></span></p>
<p><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;">Jose Mourinho brandished an imaginary red when Marcelo tumbled over a seemingly innocuous Dani Alves tackle for Madrid’s late penalty after seeing Raul Albiol sent to the stands. The Brazilian full-back had shown off his own unseemly side by waving his own invisible discipline earlier in the game.</span></span></p>
<p><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;">This was just the tip of the iceberg in a game which promised a festival of football but only delivered a 10-year-old’s birthday party, with petty squabbles and tantrums to suit.</span></span></p>
<p><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;">Most of the blame must be attached to a Real Madrid side </span></span><a href="http://www.guardian.co.uk/football/blog/2011/apr/18/real-madrid-critics-mourinho" target="_blank"><strong><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;">not so intent</span></span></strong><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"> </span></span><strong><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;">on winning the game as not not losing</span></span></strong></a><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;">. For Jose Mourinho, Barcelona represent his one obstacle on his road to unbridled greatness, and having had his fingers burnt badly by Pep Guardiola’s men before, would not be caught out twice. </span></span></p>
<p><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;">Their spoiling tactics revolved mainly around keeping Messi on the periphery game, while keeping the ball away from the centre of the park and out of the reach of the creatively destructive Barcelona midfield. </span></span></p>
<p><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;">The special one was reduced to commoner’s tactics to stop Barcelona’s dangerously beautiful football sweeping them aside once more.</span></span></p>
<p><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;">Marcelo and Pepe proved to be the chief protagonists on a night where the La Liga title surely slipped from Mourinho’s grasp once more. The aggravating pair were never shy of letting their opinions felt, both to the referee with exaggerated hand gestures and to Barcelona with a series of late niggly tackles. The irony of their lament towards Messi as he vented his frustrations seemed lost in the Madrid night air.</span></span></p>
<p><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;">Christiano Ronaldo came to symbolise all that was wrong with the game as he arched his back and preened all over the Santiago Bernabeu with little effect but plenty of petulant anger. His well taken penalty proved to be the highlight on a night where both he and Messi were secondary figures when they should have lived up to their top billing.</span></span></p>
<p><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;">Barcelona tried to make the game easy on the eye. Xavi and Iniesta as ever clipped delightful balls for David Villa to latch onto, but the former Valencia man could only offer more proof that this is a poor time of year for Spanish strikers. But in truth the Catalan club seemed only a parody of themselves as they passed passed passed in the middle of the pitch without any sense of urgency.</span></span></p>
<p><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;">Real Madrid may take the brunt of the blame for the lack of spectacle, but Barcelona had the ability to change it, and refused.</span></span></p>
<p><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;">This was a game that left a bitter taste in the mouth; Suddenly the prospect of three more Classico derbies to come doesn’t raise as much of a smile as it did last year; this is not what the world tuned in to watch </span></span><strong><a href="http://www.watchlivefootball.tv/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;">live football</span></span></a></strong><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"> for.</span></span></p>
<p><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;">Jose Mourinho must now take a look in the mirror. The effervescent Portuguese manager will rightly suggest he set his side up in a similar manner when he defeated Barcelona during his time at Inter Milan, and what more can he do against one of the greatest sides to have played the game? You are the man who needs to find answers, and quick, Jose, it is you that passed up an opportunity to haul Real Madrid back into the title fight.</span></span></p>
<p><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;">Reputations as the world’s best side are hard won and easily lost. Real Madrid cannot fear their league rivals; Mourinho cannot fear his opponents, but the evidence was damning on a disappointing night in the Spanish capital. Talk of the referee or of red cards and penalties should not be allowed to distract and Madrid must change their approach for both theirs, and our benefit.</span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"> </p>
Guest Blogger
2011-04-18T15:37:00Z
Adam's Barclays Premier League & FA Cup Roundup
Adam Johnson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Adams-Barclays-Premier-League--FA-Cup-Roundup/-745008180537766009.html
2011-04-18T08:30:00Z
2011-04-18T08:30:00Z
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Premier League and FA Cup Recap (April 16-17)</strong></span></p>
<p><strong>Birmingham 2-0 Sunderland</strong></p>
<p>Sunderland’s terrible run of games continues as Birmingham passes them up in the league with this win. The away side at least made some good chances but it was goals from Sebastien Larsson and Craig Gardner that won it for Birmingham. The first one, a keeper and defender mix up; will really have Steve Bruce upset.</p>
<p><strong><br />West Brom 1-3 Chelsea</strong></p>
<p>Chelsea needs three points every time they go out for the rest of the season and against Hodgson’s West Brom it would not be easy. The home side even took the lead through a Peter Odemwingie chip but Chelsea would respond quickly. Didier Drogba leveled it then Salomon Kalou gave Chelsea the lead on a rebound from a Drogba shot. Both teams had opportunities but Chelsea would finish it off when Frank Lampard scored to make it 3-1. Oh, and Fernando Torres put a ball in the back of the net, but he was offside.</p>
<p><strong><br />Blackpool 1-3 Wigan</strong></p>
<p>Blackpool’s dream season is looking more and more like it will end in relegation after another loss. Hugo Rodallega gave Wigan the lead and Charles N’Zogbia doubled that lead at halftime. Wigan would even get a third on a wicked deflection that would go down as an own goal. DJ Campbell would get one back but it was mere consolation. Blackpool drops into the drop zone.</p>
<p><strong><br />Everton 2-0 Blackburn</strong></p>
<p>Everton just keeps on winning. David Moyes has them flying right now and in the driver’s seat for a top seven finish. Leon Osman scored a rocket and Leighton Baines a penalty to get the three points for Everton.</p>
<p><strong><br />West Ham 1-2 Aston Villa</strong></p>
<p>The Hammers stay close to the relegation zone with this loss. They did take the lead through Robbie Keane but Villa came back. Darren Bent scored from a Luke Young cross to tie it before halftime. The all-England attack of Bent, Stuart Downing, Ashley Young and Gabriel Agbonlahor is looking impressive and it was Agbonlahor who would eventually grad the winner for Aston Villa.</p>
<p><br /><strong>Manchester City 1-0 Manchester United (FA Cup Semi)</strong></p>
<p>It was two Manchester clubs at Wembley on Saturday, meeting up to see who would play in the final next month. A treble was on the line for United while City just wants a trophy. Both teams carved out chance in the first half but it was two misses from Berbatov that United would rue. It was 0-0 at the break and after a little scramble from United’s defense it was Yaya Toure who came away with the ball and then went around Vidic before finishing under Van der Saar’s legs. It would prove to be the games only goal and City finished the game off easily after Paul Scholes was sent off for the Red Devils. It will be Manchester City in a final at Wembley.</p>
<p><br /><strong>Arsenal 1-1 Liverpool</strong></p>
<p>Well, I must admit I have never really seen anything like this game. Not much happened through 96 minutes, aside from a few bookings, and then things got interesting. Arsenal was awarded a penalty when Cesc Fabregas was brought down in the box, Robin van Persie converted and the Gunners celebrated wildly. Liverpool was not done, however. A scramble around the 18 yard box led to a free kick right on the edge which Luis Suarez blasted into the wall. As the ball was deflected in the air it fell to Lucas who had his back to goal and was stupidly brought down by Eboue of Arsenal. Penalty to Liverpool! With over 100 minutes gone Dirk Kuyt blasted home the penalty to earn a point and probably ruin the remaining hopes of Arsenal’s title challenge.</p>
<p><br /><strong>Stoke City 5-0 Bolton (FA Cup semi)</strong></p>
<p>Sunday afternoon was dreamland for Stoke fans and a nightmare for Bolton supporters. Everything that could have gone right did so for Stoke. Matthew Etherington got the scoring going with a beautiful strike, then it was Robert Huth scoring before Kenwyne Jones made it 3-0 at the break. You would think Bolton would be the ones to come out strong but instead it was Stoke who added to the lead with two class goals from John Walters. 5-0 is how it finished and Tony Pulis’ men deserved every one of them. This win sets up a meeting with Man City next month for the FA Cup.</p>
It was a small weekend in the Prem. due to the FA Cup semis but don’t forget about Newcastle v. Man Utd on Tuesday and Chelsea v. Birmingham and Tottenham (with newly crowned PFA player of the year Gareth Bale) v. Arsenal on Wednesday. Those should be good.
<p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><br /></span></strong></p>
Adam Johnson
2011-04-18T08:30:00Z
Josh's Bundesliga Recap - Matchday 30
Josh Morris
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Joshs-Bundesliga-Recap---Matchday-30/-914927904885884970.html
2011-04-18T07:10:00Z
2011-04-18T07:10:00Z
<div><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Matchday 30:</strong></span></div>
<div>
<p><strong>Borussia Dortmund v. SC Freiburg 3:0 (2:0)</strong></p>
<p><strong>Goal Scorers: BVB – Götze 23’, Lewandowski 43’, Großkreutz 78’</strong></p>
<p>Solid victory for Dortmund who solidified their lead at the top to 8 points with only 4 games and 12 points to play for. So, clearly, if Dortmund wins next week against Gladbach and Leverkusen fails to beat Hoffenheim than the title will return to Dortmund. On the day, Dortmund looked effortless at times. Clinical first goal for the youngster Götze. Lewandowski’s goal seemed clinical, but still had a lot to do in order to round the keeper and score. The third was an unselfish thing of beauty. Götze chose to pass instead of steal the goal, and he ended up stealing the player of the game – excellent player.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>FC Bayern München v. Bayer 04 Leverkusen 5:1 (4:0)</strong></p>
<p><strong>Goal Scorers: FCB – Rolfes (OG) 7’, Gomez 28’, 44’, 45+1’, Ribéry 75’; Bayer – Derdiyok 62’</strong></p>
<p>New manager bounce… This one had to drive van Gaal mad. The score line was massive, I get that, but Leverkusen will go home wondering what happened – how could 61% possession only land one goal? How can Bayern score 4 goals (not including the OG from Rolfes) off 5 total shots? Gomez’s first goal came off the back of various mistakes and an easy finish. Gomez was wide open for his second – and actually for his third as well. I have not seen Leverkusen’s defense this bad in a while – I mean even Ribéry scored! The score is misleading - Bayern are not back on the right foot, as odd as that sounds. </p>
<p>Rolfes mentioned in a post match interview putting this game behind them, and that is a wise statement. They need to move forward – Bayern are only six points behind in third.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>SV Werder Bremen v. FC Schalke 04 1:1 (0:0)</strong></p>
<p><strong>Goal Scorers: Bremen – Wagner 59’; Schalke – Edu 63’</strong> </p>
<p>Crazy first half, and a tame second. Bremen’s Pizarro was taken down hard in the box and Wagner missed the ensuing penalty but converted the rebound. He then decided to celebrate by doing the robot – after missing a penalty, lame. Seemingly a robot would make a penalty… A thundering header from Edu leveled the match, and that was all she wrote. Schalke sit <em>secure </em>in tenth – level on points with Hoffenheim in 9<sup>th</sup> – and prepare for their cup competitions.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>1. FSV Mainz 05 v. Borussia Mönchengladbach 1:0 (0:0)</strong></p>
<p><strong>Goal Scorers: Mainz – Schürrle 87’</strong></p>
<p>Maybe one of the players of the season – at least the first half – Andre Schürrle saved Mainz and helped them toward securing a Europa League place. The goal was a rocket from about 25 yards (<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5904cCu5GNw" target="_blank">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5904cCu5GNw</a>). Schürrle leveled Mainz’s all time goal tally for a season. Gladbach will feel hard done by when Reus was pulled down in the box, but that is how life goes in the cellar I guess. </p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Hamburger SV v. Hannover 96 0:0 (0:0)</strong></p>
<p>Tame northern German derby. Unfortunate.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>VfL Wolfsburg v. FC St. Pauli 2:2 (1:0)</strong></p>
<p><strong>Goal Scorers: VfL – Mandzukic 39’, Polak 89’; St. Pauli – Naki 61’, Lehmann 77’</strong></p>
<p>The score should have been St. Pauli 3-1 before Wolfsburg even scored their first! This was the most calamitous 2-2 ever. Mandzukic’s goal was nice, however it was offside, and the ball went off Diego’s arm (like I said, calamitous). St. Pauli’s first goal was a debut goal for Naki, and terrible defending from VfL. Catch my drift?</p>
<p>The 2. Bundesliga sides will feel blessed to have either (or both) Wolfsburg or St. Pauli next year… Magath has a lot of work to do in order to save this Wolfsburg side from relegation. Safety is four points away…</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>1899 Hoffenheim v. Eintracht Frankfurt 1:0 (0:0)</strong></p>
<p><strong>Goal Scorers: Hoffenheim – Firmino 78’</strong></p>
<p>Frankfurt's "Christoph Daum effect" didn’t work on the day. The influential manager could not get the Eagles to convert any of their 13 opportunities. What happened to Gekas?! Hoffenheim converted an awkward goal twelve minutes before time. Ibisevic was clearly offside and obstructed the defender from getting to Firmino, who gladly converted the wide-open chance.</p>
<p><strong><br />1. FC Köln v. VfB Stuttgart 1:3 (0:0)</strong></p>
<p><strong>Goal Scorers: Köln – Novakovic 68’; VfB – Träsch 51’, Harnik 53’, Kuzmanovic 63’ (PK)</strong></p>
<p>Three goals in twelve minutes killed off any hope of a comeback for the Billy Goats. Träsch got the scoring started with some venom, maybe the solo effort of the weekend. Belted in a rocket from about 25 yards (<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uLQ-aAAVNPo" target="_blank">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uLQ-aAAVNPo</a>). From there, VfB went from strength to strength. Their strength was bolstered by shabby defense by Köln. The third goal was a penalty, and an unlucky handball as well. Köln pulled one back but they were already climbing a massive mountain.</p>
<p>Köln sit in 12<sup>th</sup> with 35 points, while VfB sit in 14<sup>th</sup> only two points behind. Stuttgart are still dangerously close to relegation. They are tied on points with Eintracht who sit just above the drop. This victory was huge for Stuttgart.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>1. FC Kaiserslautern v. 1. FC Nürnberg 0:2 (0:1)</strong></p>
<p><strong>Goal Scorers: FCN – Eigler 34’, Mak 90+2’</strong></p>
<p>Der Club, once again, pulls off a solid away victory. They are still the team of the second half of the season! Only two points away from a Europa League berth. K-town, on the other hand, sit just above Stuttgart, and we just mentioned their recent win. If you have read anything I have written you will not be surprised that Mehmet Ekici was Der Club’s player of the game. He constantly finds the correct pass, knows when to take an opponent, and has dynamite defensive skills. A Kaiserslautern fan even tried to stop Ekici from taking a corner by throwing a missile, but he was escorted out of the park. "Mr Biceps" (re: Last week’s roundup) Lakic should have scored late on for Kaiserslautern but somehow missed an open goal… too much P90X I guess. Great win for Nürnberg.</p>
</div>
<p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><br /></span></strong></p>
Josh Morris
2011-04-18T07:10:00Z
La Liga Week 32: El Clásico, Asi, asi, asi gana Madrid!
By Stephen Kuzner, WFD La Liga Blogger
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/La-Liga-Week-32:-El-Clásico,-Asi,-asi,-asi-gana-Madrid!/460450346780316953.html
2011-04-18T01:25:00Z
2011-04-18T01:25:00Z
<p>“Asi, asi, asi gana Madrid!” is a throwback phrase of “That's how Madrid wins” alluding to the belief in the Franco years that <strong>Real Madrid</strong> could always count on an intimidated official granting them penalty shots to ensure a win or avoid a loss. It gained popularity in the 1960’s and may or may not have represented the truth, but did reflect the sentiment of a large portion of Spain. It was hard not to think of this phrase during this past El Clásico after Madrid was granted a penalty when <strong>Dani Alves</strong> tackled <strong>Marcelo</strong> in the box while getting the ball and Barcelona was not awarded a penalty when <strong>David Villa</strong> was taken down by <strong>Iker Casillas</strong> in box while not getting the ball. Asi, asi, asi gana Madrid? I think not. That’s more a relic of the past and, more practically speaking, an official and his linesmen can’t see everything…unless they have reviews for goals, penalties, and red cards, but I’m not going there in this piece.</p>
<p>Although Mourinho had nothing to say before the match, snubbing the media and thus making himself some more unnecessary enemies, he had plenty to say afterwards about the officiating not being ‘consistent’ and thus being sick and tired of having to face <strong>FC Barçalona</strong> with 10 men. He is correct in that Alves should have received a second yellow for his tackle on Marcelo since it was in the box, but on the other hand, Villa should have been awarded a penalty on the aforementioned collision with Casillas<strong>.</strong></p>
<p>Mourinho needs to be more concerned about his choice of using systematic fouling as part of his strategy. I have watched every (yes every) Madrid game in La Liga this season and the level of fouling that occurred in El Clásico has been rare this season for Los Blancos. I believe they were instructed by Mourinho to foul whenever they lost possession and in other circumstances and that this fouling was well coordinated. This sounds like a conspiracy theory, but it felt as if you were watching Spain and the Netherlands in the World Cup finals again with so much fouling by Madrid particularly in the 2<sup>nd</sup> half. Every time Madrid lost possession it seemed a Barça<strong> </strong>player was pulled down somewhere off the ball. Barça played a bunch of their counterattacks essentially a man down. The number of uncalled fouls off the ball was staggering. The officials couldn’t keep up.</p>
<p>If Mourinho wants Madrid to play with 11 players, don’t systematically foul.</p>
<p>The Madrid players before the game looked uncomfortable in their warm-ups, at least in my eyes, and that would be natural for an El Clásico. But something looked a bit off…uneasy. My guess is that they were not comfortable knowing that they would be called upon to systematically foul. A player had to be worried about getting caught if forced to foul. In my mind’s eye, the feeling was that in the Karate Kid when the <strong>Cobra Kai</strong> sensei instructs pupil <strong>John (Johnny) Lawrence</strong> to use the ‘frontal sweep’, a tactic against the rules, on <strong>Daniel LaRusso</strong>. At first, Johnny looks at his sensei with a look of frustration as if he thinks he can win without it and finally with a look of guilt knowing what he is being forced to do to win: break the rules or what some people would call (dramatic pause)…cheat. This was the look I saw on faces of Madrid’s players before the game. Or maybe, I just watch too much of The Karate Kid?</p>
<p>Is systematic fouling a form of cheating or sign of cleverness? Probably both. Fouling is against the rules and it gains an advantage. An official also can’t call every single one of them or too many games will finish with less than 11 players. People like to use phrases like anti-football, defensive, or counter-attacking to disguise the fact that their team systematically fouls. Cheating is a word not used often with systematic fouling as if it was another C-word. The shame in this is that you can use physicality to intimidate a team without fouling. Just outmuscle them. It’s not like Barça are a team of juggernauts. You would have to catch them though. Is fouling the only way to catch them? Madrid is fast. They should be able to do it. Fouling as a strategy most importantly undermines your team’s confidence. It sends a message to players that they are not believed in.</p>
<p>Being forced to foul is being told you are good enough to win within the rules.</p>
<p>Wow, I constructed a mighty high soapbox there. It needed to be said though because as was pointed out by WFD Regular and Deity of South American Soccer Knowledge, <strong>Tim Vickery</strong>, systematic fouling is probably the worst blight in football today. It saps all the joy, beauty, and fun out of the game.</p>
<p>But, Barça weren’t angels either.</p>
<p>To be fair, Barça had their fair share of rough-housing and low moments as well. The boiling point was <strong>Lionel Messi</strong> kicking the ball full strength at point blank range into the crowd. This looked like a sign of frustration taken out on the Madrid faithful. A shower of garbage was then thrown onto and near the part of the pitch from where Messi had kicked the ball. Such a powerful boot of the ball was not necessary. I feel bad, but obliged to mention this incident because in postgame write-ups, it didn’t seem to be mentioned. I’m sorry, but Messi losing his cool is front page news to me. This may have been the most morbo-filled moment of the game.</p>
<p>So where does this leave us in our four El Clásicos? Mourinho may have shown too many of his cards with <strong>Pepe</strong> in the midfield and the defensive foul-laden strategy he employed. However, this strategy worked well. It kept Barça from gaining momentum and a psychological advantage. Barça must now feel beatable to the Madrid players. The only caveat is that officials will be on heightened alert for fouls. But, maybe that piece of the plan will disappear for a game or two and then reemerge at the Camp Nou in the return leg of the Champions League with Madrid defending a lead? That would be exciting. So what will happen next at <strong>La </strong><strong>Mestalla</strong> on Wednesday for the final of the <strong>Copa del Ray</strong>? I think we’ll see the same sort of game minus the amount of fouls. Then again, more of the same would bring the game to penalty shots.</p>
<p>Some other things did happen in La Liga. My favorite moment of the week was Getafe’s Miku goal celebration where he took the corner flag and parodied talking into it like a microphone while the press in the corner jammed microphones his way at the same time. Clever indeed. Here’s what happened with a comment-filled table and comment-filled top scorer’s list.</p>
<p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Scores</span></strong></p>
<p><strong>Getafe</strong> <span style="text-decoration: underline;">1-0</span> <strong>Sevilla</strong> | Miku (76')<br /><strong>Málaga</strong> <span style="text-decoration: underline;">3-0</span> <strong>Mallorca</strong> | Sebastián Fernández (26'), Júlio Baptista (40') & (57')<br /><strong>Almeria</strong> <span style="text-decoration: underline;">0-3</span> <strong>Valencia</strong> | Soldado (51'), Stankevicius (67'), Alba (81')<br /><strong>Real Madrid</strong> <span style="text-decoration: underline;">1-1</span> <strong>Barcelona</strong> | Lionel Messi (p53'), Cristiano Ronaldo (p82')<br /><strong>Levante</strong> <span style="text-decoration: underline;">2-1</span> <strong>Hercules</strong> | Estrada (5'), Juanlu (43'), Trezeguet (82')<br /><strong>Deportivo</strong> <span style="text-decoration: underline;">2-0</span> <strong>Racing</strong> | Lassad Nouioui (45'), Xisco (49')<br /><strong>Real Sociedad</strong> <span style="text-decoration: underline;">2-1</span> <strong>Sporting Gijon </strong>| Griezmann (32') & (79'), de las Cuevas (69')<br /><strong>Osasuna</strong> <span style="text-decoration: underline;">1-2</span> <strong>Athletic Bilbao</strong> | Kike Sola (51'), Llorente (69'), Munianin (90')<br /><strong>Espanyol</strong> <span style="text-decoration: underline;">2-2</span> <strong>Atlético</strong> | Koke (2'), Osvaldo (38') & (58'), Sergio Agüero (49')<br /><strong>Villarreal </strong>vs. <strong>R Zaragoza</strong> | Monday night game.</p>
<p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Table</span></strong></p>
<p>1. <strong>Barcelona</strong> (85) The draw in El Clásico felt like a loss.<br />2. <strong>Real Madrid</strong> (77) The draw in El Clásico probably insured 2<sup>nd</sup> place.<br />3. <strong>Valencia</strong> (63) On fantastic run of form after being ousted from UCL.<br />4. <strong>Villarreal</strong> (54) Should bounce back on Monday hosting Real Zaragoza.<br />5. <span style="text-decoration: underline;">Athletic</span> (48) Could they catch Villarreal? Nawh. Hmm?<br />6. <span style="text-decoration: underline;">Sevilla</span> (46) Getafe loss means no UCL next year & Europa League battle instead.<br />7. Atlético (46) In the fight for a Europa League spot.<br />8. Espanyol (45) Osvaldo is back! Can the slipping stop?<br />9. Levante (42) They still astound me. Win ensured La Liga next year.<br />10. Mallorca (39) Was loss at Málaga cruise control? Only 6 points from relegation.<br />11. Sporting (38) Real Sociedad simply needed it more this week.<br />12. R Sociedad (38) Big win over Gijon gets them closer to safety.<br />13. Deportivo (38) Vital win over Racing this week. Same as above for Sociedad.<br />14. Getafe (37) Unexpected and critical win given the tightness in relegation battle.<br />15. Racing (37) The loss to Deportivo saw them leap-frogged.<br />16. Osasuna (35) This week’s loss to Bilbao was expected. Not relegation-bound.<br />17. R Zaragoza (33) Need Monday night win at Villarreal, but won’t.<br />18. <strong>Málaga</strong> (33) Big win. Will Júlio Baptista’s return propel them out of relegation?<br />19. <strong>Hercules</strong> (30) Trezeguet scores and they lose. The season’s theme.<br />20. <strong>Almeria</strong> (26) They ran ads asking for supporters help. It won’t be enough.</p>
<p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Top 20 Goals Scored</span></strong></p>
<p>Being a nerdy stat guy, I’ve found these types of lists handy if they are some side notes. So, here is the top 20 scorers in La Liga this year.</p>
<p>1. <strong>Lionel Messi</strong> (Barcelona) Best player in the world. (30)<br />2. <strong>Cristiano Ronaldo</strong> (Real Madrid) Pichichi is coin flip tween him and Messi. (29)<br />3. <strong>David Villa</strong> (Barcelona) Spain’s #9, but Barca’s 2<sup>nd</sup> leading scorer. (17)<br />4. <strong>Fernando Llorente</strong> (Athletic Bilbao) The giant “Lion King” can do it all. (16)<br />5. <strong>Giuseppe Rossi</strong> (Villarreal) Villarreal will sell him for a king’s ransom. (15)<br />6. <strong>Sergio Agüero</strong> (Atlético Madrid) Recent form coincided with Atlético’s rise. (14)<br />7. <strong>Roberto Soldado</strong> (Valencia) Seven goals in last 3 games. Yikes! (13)<br />7. <strong>Pedro</strong> (Barcelona) He runs everywhere including to the bathroom. (13)<br />9. <strong>Álvaro Negredo</strong> (Sevilla FC) Double digit goals the past four years. (12)<br />9. <strong>Rondon</strong> (Málaga) Great 1<sup>st</sup> season in top flight for the 21 year Venezuelan. (12)<br />11. <strong>Nilmar</strong> (Villarreal) Injury slowed the Brazilian’s trajectory off 20 goals. (11)<br />11. <strong>Felipe Caicedo</strong> (Levante) 22 Year Ecuadorian flourishing in 1<sup>st</sup> full season. (11)<br />11. <strong>David Trezeguet</strong> (Hercules) Aging all-time great from Juventus & France (11)<br />14. <strong>Luis Fabiano</strong> (Sevilla FC) Playing in Brazil now for Sao Paulo. (10)<br />14. <strong>Karim Benzema</strong> (Real Madrid) After a slow start, has proved valuable. (10)<br />14. <strong>Osvaldo</strong> (Espanyol) The Argentine had career turn-around season. (10)<br />17. <strong>Frederic Kanouté</strong> (Sevilla FC) Tall ‘King Kanouté’is best as a set-up man. (9)<br />17. <strong>Aritz Aduriz</strong> (Valencia) Reliable journeyman striker. (9)<br />17. <strong>Manu</strong> (Getafe) Speedy winger/striker that scores about 9 goals a year. (9)<br />17. <strong>Diego Castro </strong>(Sporting Gijon) Crafty left winger. (9)</p>
<p><em>Stephen Kuzner is a Baltimore-based Blogger for WorldFootballDaily.com who specializes in La Liga. You can reach him on Facebook at facebook.com/BarcaBlogger or Twitter at @twitter.com/BarcaBlogger.</em> </p>
By Stephen Kuzner, WFD La Liga Blogger
2011-04-18T01:25:00Z
The Least Important El Clásico Ever?
By Stephen Kuzner, WFD La Liga Blogger
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/The-Least-Important-El-Clásico-Ever/818458266425362712.html
2011-04-15T01:44:00Z
2011-04-15T01:44:00Z
<p>This weekend we have the first of four El Clásicos in eighteen days in what could be the least important El Clásico ever. Why? In terms of the league, <strong>FC Barçalona</strong> have an 8 point lead with 7 games to go, an easier schedule, and the likely (barring a miracle performance by Madrid on Saturday) head-to-head tiebreaker. Well, if you buy that the league is wrapped-up, and most people do, then any El Clásico would provide plenty of morbo at least, right? I’m not so sure here as well because the next three games for the Copa del Ray and Champions League semifinals provide instant silverware. If may make most sense for both <strong>Jose Mourinho</strong> and <strong>Pep Guardiola</strong> to view this match as a test battle in larger war. There is potential for minimal morbo.</p>
<p>Then again, it is an El Clásico, there has to be morbo.</p>
<p>In case you were wondering what the heck is morbo, I wasn’t referring to the human-hating alien news anchor in Fox’s Futurama nor the Mexican electronica-rock band. Rather, I am referring to the self-sustaining and ever-growing hatred between Spanish football teams that WFD Regular <strong>Phil Ball</strong> brilliantly wrote about in <strong>morbo: The Story of Spanish Football</strong>. If you follow La Liga, this is a must-read. Morbo is more than hatred, a derby, or a disease. It spreads all over the place. Think about it. Even, GolTV in the United States is running El Clásico history and preview shows all week. Catch them if you can, they are really good.</p>
<p>This first of four El Clásicos will be fertile ground for the seed of morbo to take root with each of these four encounters sure to grow morbo more and more until one of these two European giants is ousted from the Champions League. Although these games are across three different competitions there will be a crescendo at the end. The Champion’s League is the trophy this specific vintage of Barça needs the most to be considered the best ever. Further, the League and Copa del Ray will not be enough for Barça if they become a stepping stone for Madrid’s tenth UEFA Champions League Trophy, Mourinho’s third with three clubs, and a back-to-back coaching two different teams between <strong>Intermilan</strong> and Madrid. The team passing through the UCL Final will feel the victor over these four matches.</p>
<p>At the end of this year, a Champions League title could garner Barça the title as the best team ever or grant Mourinho the designation of best coach ever.</p>
<p>This one means the least and will set the stage. What will happen in round one? WFD had on GolTV’s <strong>Juan Arango</strong> and he said to expect the unexpected to a certain degree, that Pep might go to a 4-1-4-1. For the El Clásico this past fall, I wrote a <strong><a href="/blog?action=viewBlog&blogID=-524018206872804115">dissertation</a> </strong>of the tactical match-ups because I felt I had a grasp on what Mourinho and Pep would likely do. The only significant differences are Kaka returning and Puyol’s and Higuaín’s fitness. I believe writing again in detail on tactics may be a waste of time because I think Juan is right; we’ll see something in this match out of the ordinary tactically. What that is, I don’t know.</p>
<p>However, I will take a stab at what will happen. Fortunately, a 5-0 drubbing will not happen. We will be entertained. The Estadio Santiago Bernabéu will be electric. The Madridistas will deliver on creating and nurturing some morbo. Having the least riding on this game, it would be the time to make a racy statement of some sort. Madrid will start firing on all cylinders and it will appear that Barça have met their match. Madrid will knock in one or two in the first half early-on. But, Barça will keep passing-away like they do, and do, and do again, gaining more and more momentum. Pepe or Sergio Ramos will make a silly mistake that gives Barça an advantage and they’ll climb back into it to make it a draw.</p>
<p><em>Stephen Kuzner is a Baltimore-based Blogger for WorldFootballDaily.com who specializes in La Liga. You can reach him on Facebook at facebook.com/BarcaBlogger or Twitter at @twitter.com/BarcaBlogger.</em></p>
By Stephen Kuzner, WFD La Liga Blogger
2011-04-15T01:44:00Z
Spurs facing huge task to get back into Champions League
Guest Blogger
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Spurs-facing-huge-task-to-get-back-into-Champions-League/-95796597820105935.html
2011-04-14T18:23:00Z
2011-04-14T18:23:00Z
<p>Harry Redknapp has called for his Spurs side to bounce back from their Champions League disappointment by confirming their place in the Premier League top four come the end of the season.</p>
<p>The veteran manager has seen the North London side surprise many people with their performances in the Champions League this season, but defeat to Real Madrid has ended their participation.</p>
<p>Spurs now face a fight in the remaining Premier League games to get into the top four and ensure they qualify for the tournament for next season. Anyone looking to <strong><a href="http://betting.betfred.com/category/sport-betting-news/football-betting/">bet on Premier League weekend games</a> </strong>will know that a win is crucial.</p>
<p>Currently Redknapp's side are sitting fifth in the table, but have a game in hand with Manchester City who are three points ahead of them, however Spurs' inferior goal difference makes it more of a challenge to get into the Premier League top four.</p>
<p>Spurs face North London rivals Arsenal in their next game, together with matches against Chelsea and City before the end of the season, but Redknapp reckons his side still have a "great chance" of achieving Champions League qualification, even if the <a href="http://betting.betfred.com/713/sport-betting-news/football-betting/spurs-seek-divine-intervention/"><strong>Premier League tips</strong></a> suggest otherwise</p>
<p>He said: "It's very difficult to retain that top-four spot, but that's something we've got to aim to do at Tottenham.</p>
<p>"We've got to be up there every year. We should be. If we can make the top four again, it would be a great achievement."</p>
<p>Tottenham captain Michael Dawson has also issued a rallying call for his team-mates to step up over the coming weeks, declaring qualifying only for the Europa League would be a disappointing finish.</p>
<p>He claims Spurs are "hungry for more" after tasting the Champions League, and the players will need to be at their best in every remaining game if they want to get back into that Premier League top four.</p>
Guest Blogger
2011-04-14T18:23:00Z
Aldridge impressed by Suarez
Thomas Rooney
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Aldridge-impressed-by-Suarez/157222284353639321.html
2011-04-14T18:15:00Z
2011-04-14T18:15:00Z
<p>It seems fair to say that those purchasing a Luis<a href="http://www.football-shirts.co.uk/suarezshirts.html"> </a><strong><a href="http://www.football-shirts.co.uk/suarezshirts.html">Suarez Liverpool Kit</a> </strong>since his arrival at Anfield will be extremely happy with the way their new hero has performed so far.</p>
<p>The Uruguay international has been fantastic for Kenny Dalglish in the last few weeks, linking up superbly with his new team-mates to be heavily involved in everything Liverpool are doing well.</p>
<p>Most recently he has formed an impressive looking partnership with fellow new-signing Andy Carroll. The pair were both excellent against Manchester City on Monday evening and helped the Reds secure an impressive 3-0 win.</p>
<p>This has led to much praise for Suarez from Liverpool legend John Aldridge. The former striker has been delighted with the way the new No.7 has settled into life on Merseyside.</p>
<p>Referring to the performance on Monday evening, he said: “People will rightly point out how poor<abbr> <a href="http://www.tribalfootball.com/english-premiership/manchester-city-0" target="_blank">Manchester City</a></abbr> were, but the truth is that <a href="http://www.tribalfootball.com/english-premiership/liverpool-0" target="_blank"><abbr>Liverpool</abbr></a> made them look poor with their attitude and their desire.”</p>
<p>“Nobody encapsulated that mentality better than the strike force of Andy Carroll and Luis Suarez. When you have two lads up front who are fighters, and will do anything for the team, rather than just themselves, it does so much to help the team, and those two were absolutely superb."</p>
<p>Liverpool fans are certainly excited about what the future holds with these two leading the line and at the moment it looks like fantastic business for Dalglish to replace Fernando Torres with this new strike force.</p>
<p>Looking at Suarez’s impact specifically, it is all the more impressive considering he speaks very little English at the moment. He has had to communicate using the language of football, with his undoubted creativity, flair and work-rate on show.</p>
<p>His strike partner Carroll is certainly pleased to be working alongside the former Ajax striker, lavishing the praise on him following the pair’s first start together at Anfield on Monday.</p>
<p>The £35 million man said: “Luis is a great player and I'm really looking forward to building a successful partnership with him. You can see what he's all about and the range of skills that he has. I feel that we've been working really well together in training and the partnership's going from strength to strength.”</p>
<p>The short-term target for Liverpool with their new striker force will be to qualify for the Europa League next season, something they will believe they are more than capable of doing after the excellent display over Manchester City.</p>
<p> </p>
Thomas Rooney
2011-04-14T18:15:00Z
Ibrahimovic's Fall From Grace at Milan
Frank Tigani
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Ibrahimovics-Fall-From-Grace-at-Milan/623633033147644694.html
2011-04-13T20:33:00Z
2011-04-13T20:33:00Z
<p>It is an amazing record for a player, seven consecutive league titles with four different clubs in three different countries. No other player can boast such a unique and impressive record that leaves no doubt that Ibrahimovic is a winner. Unfortunately, his lack of success in Europe has long overshadowed his domestic successes and his most recent failure to deliver in the Champions League has only cast more doubt.</p>
<p>After a troubled season at Barcelona Ibrahimovic moved back to Italy this time to don the colours of Milan. His arrival at the Milanello, followed by the signing of Robinho, signalled a new era for the Rossoneri who were without a league title since 2004. True to his reputation for being a master at winning league titles, Ibra quickly established himself as the club’s talisman and his sparkling form early in the season put Milan on track to break their Scudetto duck.</p>
<p>In total, the Big Swede contributed seventeen goals before the end of January along with eight assists. It seemed that Ibra would again lead another team to league title success.</p>
<p>But, then something went wrong. Ibra’s form declined and since January he has claimed just one goal and it came from the penalty spot. Why the Swede’s displays have dropped off is anyone’s guess. Fatigue, pressure or any unknown personal dilemma could be the reason. What is clear is that the former Inter star is frustrated.</p>
<p>Some have pointed to Milan’s recent elimination by Tottenham in the Champions League as the reason for his frustrations. Ibra’s performances in Europe have long been criticised for his failure to deliver at key moments. As the undoubted star of the Rossoneri, much hope was placed on his shoulders to guide the club to the quarter finals. But, as has become too often a sight, Ibra failed to deliver in Europe when his club really needed him to do so.</p>
<p>Yet, this explanation does not tell the whole story. Why it may be a factor in Ibra’s recent misconduct in his last two matches that have seen him pick up two needless red cards, the fact of the matter is that the Swede’s form since the end of January has left much to be desired.</p>
<p>Now, following Ibra’s expulsion in Florence he is set to miss the next three matches. With just six rounds remaining in Italy’s Serie A, his absence comes at a most crucial stage in his club’s bid to claim the Scudetto.</p>
<p>After being such an influential figure in helping place Milan in pole position to win the title, Ibra now will be forced to watch from the sidelines and hope that his team mates can finish what he helped to start.</p>
<p>It has been a real fall from grace. From being the hero earlier in the season, Ibra is now being derided by some of the club’s own fans as was seen at the Artemio Franchi stadium over the weekend. Sitting in the stand Andrea Galliani looked far from impressed either as did Max Allegri when Ibra received his marching orders.</p>
<p>In addition, in recent weeks there has been some speculation that Milan will not take the option granted to them to buy the Swede outright from the club that still currently own him, Barcelona. His drop in form and unwarranted conduct on the field may just have convinced the board that they will do better to let him go and invest their funds elsewhere.</p>
<p>The future of Zlatan Ibrahimovic is now not so clear. If Milan do decide not to secure his move on a permanent basis he will not exactly be welcomed back to Barcelona with open arms. The Catalan outfit invested heavily in David Villa last summer as the replacement for Ibrahimovic whose frictious relationship with Josep Guardiola last season makes a return to Camp Nou highly unlikely.</p>
<p>Few clubs with the resources to purchase the Swede who will still demand a high transfer fee and equally high wages will be interested securing his signature this summer. His record in the Champions League is definitely going against him along with his recent dip in form and his tendency to play as an individual rather than as part of a team.</p>
<p>When Ibra does return from his suspension there still will be three games remaining in the season that could prove decisive. If Ibra is cast straight back into the side he will have the chance, albeit a small one, to prove his value to Milan and potential suitors. The Big Swede, who is now 29 years old, will hope to do this as career nears a critical juncture. </p>
Frank Tigani
2011-04-13T20:33:00Z
Batista continues to shuffle the deck in search of his 11 for Copa America
Steven Gomez
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Batista-continues-to-shuffle-the-deck-in-search-of-his-11-for-Copa-America/930984058993033133.html
2011-04-12T23:42:00Z
2011-04-12T23:42:00Z
<br />Since Batista’s appointment as head of the Argentina national team after South Africa, we have seen him try new players in almost every position not already reserved for Lio Messi.<br /><br />One of the biggest clichés heard in any sport, is that “no player is bigger than the team.” That is not the case for the Albiceleste number 10.<br /><br />Batisita has made it clear from the beginning that he wants his team to emulate Barcelona and he wants Messi to play the same role he does for his club. He has made his roster choices based on that principle. In Barca fashion, Batista has deployed a 4-3-3 more often than not, with Messi playing a free-roaming center forward/attacking midfielder/central midfielder role.<br /><br />The biggest puzzle Batista needs to solve in anticipation of the Copa America in July is the defense. His predecessor, Maradona, didn’t even come close in addressing Argentina’s defensive woes during the World Cup. He made some choices that are laughable when compared to los gauchos attacking might and midfield talent. (i.e. Jonas Gutierrez at right back????)<br /><br />Batista is making improvements to the back line; most notable is the inclusion of that reliable dinosaur, Javier Zanetti. Although, getting close to 40, Zanetti may well be the best choice for right back. He has a high work rate, and keeps the back line tight, despite not wearing his country’s armband anymore. His closest competitor is Pablo Zabaleta, who may be having his best season to date at Manchester City, but still has much room to improve if he plans on ever filling Il Capitano’s shoes.<br /><br />The two centerback roles are Argentina’s biggest problem. One of the best options for this role is Inter’s Walter Samuel who has been injured for the entirety of Batista’s tenure. Reports out of Milan say he is on the starting 11 for Inter’s second leg tie versus Schalke in the EUFA Champions League next week. Perhaps he will get a call from Batista before this summer’s tournament.<br /><br />Argentina’s other center back options are sketchy at best. The popular choices are Milito, Pareja, Burdisso, Demichelis, and Garay. Milito and Demichelis are both about as useless as they come. Demichelis only knows how to defend if his partner is a world-class center back, and Milito has never been the same after returning from his long-term injury. Garay is a great defender, but it seems his lack of playing time at the club level is keeping him from starting for his country too. Burdisso is a mediocre defender who continues to be a first choice for Batista, simply because …..there aren’t many other choices.<br /><br />The left back spot was owned by Gabi Heinze for many years. Recently, however, his legs have begun to give him a dose of reality. There is no question that Heinze is a hard worker with a history of terrorizing the opposition. He is brilliant at heading the ball from set pieces, and has great tactical awareness. Unfortunately, he is being found out too often these days and like most footballers his age, is getting frustrated in the pace department. For the past two friendlies, Batista has called a young Marcos Rojo in his stead. Rojo is quick and has much to offer going forward in addition to defending. His recent performances for Argentina have shown much promise for this 21 year old.<br /><br />Goal keeping is another problem. AZ Aklmar’s Sergio Romero is the first choice. Like the center back conundrum, he is only between the posts because there isn’t any other decent talent available. He has the physical prowess to perform his duties, but too often looks nervous and indecisive. His backup is the inept Mariano Andujar of Catania. His blunder during the USA friendly cost Argentina the victory.<br /><br />Argentina’s midfield has a mix of experience and young talent. Although not as talented as Barca’s midfield, they have the potential to play that same type of possession game. Batista is making lineup choices in an attempt to mimic that style. There have been many questions raised about Mascherano’s ability to play in that system ever since his transfer from Liverpool to Barcelona. In England he was that anchorman who destroyed the opposition’s attack. He had an uncanny ability to read the play and put a crushing stop to it. Settling in Barca was very difficult for him and el jefecito spent the majority of his time sitting on the bench and playing second fiddle to the less talented Busquets. Because of injuries and suspensions, Mascherano has recently had much more playing time at his club and is finally showing signs of settling into the possession-based passing game. Batista must surely be pleased.<br /><br />The middle three are Cambiasso and Mascherano cleaning up after Ever Banega. Banega is Batista’s attempt at cloning Xavi. Although that may seem like an impossible task, Banega’s ping style game play is improving with every cap for Argentina. His link up with Messi during the USA game was a treat to watch. Surely he will retain his position for the Copa America. The midfield bench includes the likes of D’Alessandro, Bolatti, Sosa and Pastore with the latter being haled as an emerging new talent. Maradona used him sparingly and the same can be said about Batista. He is a ‘move to a big club’ away from a starting role with Argentina. <br /><br />The situation with the front line is complicated. Not for lack of talent, but quite the opposite, in fact. Argentina may well be the nation with the most talented pool of forwards to choose from. Lavezzi, Tevez, Aguero, Messi, Higuain, D. Milito, Lopez, Di Maria. Surely anyone of those names would have a starting position on any national team.<br /><br />In keeping with his 4-3-3, Batista has recently been favoring Di Maria in the right wing, Messi in the middle, and Lavezzi on the left wing. Three of the world’s trickiest dribblers all on the same front line! This lineup is an obvious attempt to use possession, ping passing, and skillful dribbling to put the ball in the net. However, save for the match against Spain, all of Argentina’s matches have been low or no scoring affairs. The team is missing their number 9. With Higuain and D. Milito being injured for so long, that position has been vacant. During the World Cup, Argentina were punishing the opposition by wide margins thanks to the tall and skillful target man known as “el Pipita” Higuain. Will Batista call him up again now that he is finding regular playing time at Madrid? Can Higuain play in a 4-3-3? Or will Batista have to revert back to a 4-2-3-1 to accommodate someone not named Messi? Is the Argentine public prepared to allow Batisita to shift the attacking focus away from Messi without slating him? Is Higuain the final piece to the attacking puzzle?<br /><br />I expect little change in midfield and in goal. Batista will have to decide whether he wants to keep his front line of players all under 5’8”, or bring in big Higuain. The back line will surely continue to morph. <br /><br />Batista will have to continue to fine-tune his Albiceleste machine for the next few months. When the tournament begins on home turf, his 11 must be able to cope with the pressure of a demanding public suffering from a major trophy drought of 18 years.<br />--Steven in Houston<br /><br /><br />
Steven Gomez
2011-04-12T23:42:00Z
Adam's Barclays Premier League Roundup
Adam Johnson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Adams-Barclays-Premier-League-Roundup/528993207863112587.html
2011-04-11T21:56:00Z
2011-04-11T21:56:00Z
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Premier League Recap (April 9-11)</strong></span></p>
<p><strong>Wolves 0-3 Everton</strong></p>
<p>Quietly, Everton has made a run and now sit in 7<sup>th</sup> place after this 3-0 win. They dominated the first half after a Jermaine Beckford header, a right footed rocket from Phil Neville, then a left footed rocket from Dinyar Bilyaletdinov made it 3-0 and the Wolves fans were not happy. The score would stay the same and Everton continues their good run.</p>
<p><strong>Manchester United 2-0 Fulham</strong></p>
<p>This was one of those, we know we are going to win and you know we are going to win so how about we just win, matches for United. They didn’t look great as a team but Nani was on his game again, setting up both goals for Dimitar Berbatov and Antonio Valencia. Fulham had chances but the three points were never in doubt for the league leaders.</p>
<p><strong>Chelsea 1-0 Wigan</strong></p>
<p>The play was much better from Chelsea but the goals still aren’t coming, especially for Fernando Torres. The Spaniard was substituted for Nic Anelka in the second half and had to great chances to score but it wasn’t meant to be. Didier Drogba looked up for it setting up players for chances but none were finished and the game sat at 0-0. Until a scrappy goal was hit home by Florent Malouda to give Chelsea the home win. Wigan played well but probably got what they deserved.</p>
<p><strong>Tottenham 3-2 Stoke</strong></p>
<p>A win for Spurs was the only way to respond after their thrashing at the hands of Real Madrid last week. They got that win but it wasn’t easy. Peter Crouch and Luka Modric both scored beautiful goals to make it 2-0 but Stoke fought back, thanks to a run and finish by Matthew Etherington. Peter Crouch got another goal using his head to make it 3-1 but Stoke scored again with a Kenwyne Jones left footed rocket. It was 3-2 at halftime and all five goals were first class. The score would stay the same and Tottenham got a much needed three points.</p>
<p><strong>Blackburn 1-1 Birmingham</strong></p>
<p>Not one of those mouth watering matchups, but still an important game, I guess. Lee Bowyer scored first for Birmingham before the young Junior Hoilett equalized for Blackburn after picking Liam Ridgewell clean. That was it and a point a piece to the two teams.</p>
<p><strong>Bolton 3-0 West Ham</strong></p>
<p>West Ham continued their confusing run as they were dominated on Saturday by Bolton. Danny Sturridge scored his first before Chung Yong-Lee and Sturridge again made it 3-0 to finish the Hammers off. Demba Ba had a few good shots on goal but that was the only positive West Ham could take from this one.</p>
<p><strong>Sunderland 2-3 West Brom</strong></p>
<p>Sunderland had to respond after their 5-0 blowout loss to Man City last week and they did just that. It was a Shorey own goal that got Sunderland going but Peter Odemwingie leveled it a 1-1. Phil Bardsley then gave Sunderland the lead on a missile of a free kick that went into the top left corner. Yusef Mulumbu tied it again for West Brom and then Paul Scharner gave the away side the lead 3-2 after an impressive build up. Roy Hodgson really has West Brom playing well with another three priceless points.</p>
<p><strong>Blackpool 1-3 Arsenal</strong></p>
<p>With these two teams playing you knew it was going to be an open game and it was. Jens Lehmann got his first start for Arsenal since joining the club and while he looked decent there were still those scary moments that we are used to from Arsenal keepers. Abou Diaby and Emmanuel Eboue both scored in the first half after nice passing sequences and it looked like a formality until Blackpool struck early in the second half through Gary Taylor-Fletcher to trim the lead. Both teams continued to push and create chances but it was Arsenal who would seal it after a brilliant counter attack involving Diaby, Cesc Fabregas, Theo Walcott, and finished by Robin Van Persie. The Gunners have to win every game and they did so in Sunday.</p>
<p><strong>Aston Villa 1-0 Newcastle</strong></p>
<p>This certainly wasn’t the best game of the weekend but a big one for each team, nonetheless. James Collins headed home off an Ashley Young free kick for Villa and it would prove to be enough for the victory.</p>
<p><strong>Liverpool 3-0 Man City</strong></p>
<p>The Monday matchup was the most glamorous of the weekend and it lived up to it if you are LeBron James or a Liverpool fan. The Merseyside club dominated the first half and the first goal was always going to come from them, and oh how it came. Andy Carroll got his first Liverpool goal on a left footed blast that swerved low and away from keeper Joe Hart. City created very few chances while Liverpool kept coming and they got two more in fact. One from Dirk Kuyt after a wild sequence of shots and blocks and passing around the box, and Liverpool’s third was again Carroll on a header from a Raul Miereles cross. Anfield was rocking and that was that. 3-0 to Liverpool and another big win for Dalglish’s men.</p>
While United remained the leaders, the races for the Champions League, Europa League, and relegation are heating up. With only six or seven games left for each team, every manager and player must be on their A game from here on out.
<p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><br /></span></strong></p>
Adam Johnson
2011-04-11T21:56:00Z
LA LIGA WEEK 31: GOSSIP GIRL & LOOMING EL CLASICOS
By Stephen Kuzner, WFD La Liga Blogger
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/LA-LIGA-WEEK-31:-GOSSIP-GIRL--LOOMING-EL-CLASICOS/172511484747150283.html
2011-04-11T18:08:00Z
2011-04-11T18:08:00Z
<p>I’ve been away for a few months sorting-out some things in my personal life, but your WFD La Liga Blogger is back, XOXO. Did I really just XOXO? This week in the world’s best league (hint …. La Liga BBVA) felt more gossipy than business-end. In case you missed it, <strong>Justin Bieber</strong> attended and participated in practice at <strong>FC Barcelona</strong> and <strong>Lionel Messi</strong> joined the Facebook community netting 7 million+ friends. Also, “The Lion King” <strong>Fernando</strong> <strong>Llorente</strong> swatted away rumors prior to <strong>Athletic Bilbao</strong>’s 0-3 loss to <strong>Real Madrid</strong> that he is not headed to Madrid in the summer; this being great news to Athletic since Llorente is the best person on the planet to lead the line of a <strong>José Mourinho</strong> coached team. This lets me sleep easier when I consider that the money Madrid used to buy Kaka could have brought in Llorente, <strong>Javi Martinez</strong>, and <strong>Ashely Cole</strong>. Not that they were for sale.</p>
<p>One of my last pieces in December before my hiatus was about the silliness of trying to figure-out which of the top four leagues in Europe is the best. After <strong>Sporting</strong> <strong>Gijon</strong>’s 0-1 defeat of Real Madrid in Madrid and then Madrid’s drubbing of <strong>Tottenham</strong> in the UEFA Champion’s League, I have to reconsider. I know Crouchie got sent-off at the Bernabéu, but 4-0? That’s a beating. Throw-in what Villarreal is doing in the Europa League, La Liga is the best. I’ll eat my words if Manchester United or Chelsea beat Barca or Madrid in the UEFA Champions League final, but do you see that happening? La Liga deserves it’s due.</p>
<p>In desperation, <strong>Almeria</strong> sacked <strong>Jose Luis Oltra</strong> and appointed <strong>Roberto Olabe</strong>. I am not a fan of sacking multiple coaches in a season. A club going down can be made worse by the stench of blame. But hey, that’s just me. If new coach bounces were so vital, why not sack your coach 38 times? Almeria should have kept Juan Manuel Lillo who gave Barcelona coach Pep Guardiola much of his tactical education while Lillo coached Mexican side Dorados de Sinaloa. Then again, losing to Barca 3-1 this week is better than the 0-8 thrashing that Almeria took from Barca in November under Lillo that got him fired. Nevertheless, he should have stayed.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>So what else happened this week?</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Athletic</strong> <span style="text-decoration: underline;">0-3</span> <strong>Real Madrid</strong> | Kaká (p14' & p54'), Ronaldo (70')</p>
<p><strong>Barcelona</strong> <span style="text-decoration: underline;">3-1</span> <strong>Almeria</strong> | Messi (p53' & 90'), Corona (50'), Thiago (64')</p>
<p><strong>Mallorca</strong> <span style="text-decoration: underline;">2-2</span> <strong>Sevilla </strong>| Ienaga (16'), Negredo (p31'), De Guzman (42'), Rakitic (68')</p>
<p><strong>Sporting</strong> <span style="text-decoration: underline;">1-0</span> <strong>Osasuna </strong> | Barral (66')</p>
<p><strong>Málaga</strong> <span style="text-decoration: underline;">0-0</span> <strong>Deportivo</strong> | Yucky.</p>
<p><strong>Racing</strong> <span style="text-decoration: underline;">1-1</span> <strong>Levante </strong> | Nano (og 32') Jorda (90')</p>
<p><strong>Hercules</strong> <span style="text-decoration: underline;">0-0</span> <strong>Espanyol</strong> | Yucky again.</p>
<p><strong>Atlético</strong> <span style="text-decoration: underline;">3-0</span> R <strong>Sociedad</strong> | Luis Filipe (12'), Mario Suárez (45'), Agüero (78')</p>
<p><strong>Valencia</strong> <span style="text-decoration: underline;">5-0</span> <strong>Villarreal </strong> | Soldado (14' & 75'), Mata (56' & 73'), Banega (62') </p>
<p><strong>R Zaragoza</strong> <span style="text-decoration: underline;">vs.</span> <strong>Getafe</strong> | (4/11)</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The game I was looking forward to most was <strong>Valencia</strong> hosting <strong>Villarreal</strong>, two V-Teams that would finish in most leagues’ top 4. Valencia is known as Los Che (surprise!) and that’s what Villarreal got. It has been truly amazing to see how well they are playing having sold <strong>David Villa</strong> and <strong>David Silva</strong> this past summer. I felt so bad for Villarreal, I played peak-a-boo with my 2 year-old at times during the game to hide from their embarrassment.</p>
<p>I didn’t get to do a mid-year review, so here is where things stand in my view.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>1. Barcelona</strong> | 84 pts | Still on track to be greatest sports team ever.</p>
<p><strong>2. Real Madrid</strong> | 76 pts | They win any league in any year except this year’s Barca.</p>
<p><strong>3. Valencia</strong> | 60 pts | Impressive demolition of Villarreal to ensure automatic UCL.</p>
<p><strong>4. Villarreal</strong> | 54 pts | 2<sup>nd</sup> half of season, their pace has really slowed-down.</p>
<p><strong><em>5. Sevilla</em></strong> | 46 pts | Not quite the Sevilla of the last 5-7 years.</p>
<p><strong><em>6. Athletic</em></strong> | 45 pts | Big, strong, mean, young. UCL next year.</p>
<p>7. Atlético | 45 pts | Are we surprised they underachieved? Déjà vu?</p>
<p>8. Espanyol | 44 pts | When you blood 9 youth players you drop in the 2<sup>nd</sup> half.</p>
<p>9. Mallorca | 39 pts | Mid-table results with relegation budget.</p>
<p>10. Levante | 39 pts | I am astounded that they are here.</p>
<p>11. Sporting | 38 pts | I love the audacity of Gijonudos (ballsy Gijon).</p>
<p>12. Racing | 37 pts | A few pieces away from Europa League potential … next year.</p>
<p>13. Osasuna | 35 pts | Too touch to go down #1.</p>
<p>14. R Sociedad | 35 pts | Too touch to go down #2.</p>
<p>15. Deportivo | 35 pts | Better get it together soon.</p>
<p>16. Getafe | 34 pts | Hercules & Málaga’s best chance of catching someone.</p>
<p>17. R Zaragoza | 30 pts | I predicted them 17<sup>th</sup>. Now stay here.</p>
<p><strong>18. Hercules</strong> | 30 pts | They have come down to reality.</p>
<p><strong>19. Málaga</strong> | 30 pts | With that winter spending, they shouldn’t be here.</p>
<p><strong>20. Almeria</strong> | 26 pts | Repeatedly sacking coaches doesn’t work.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>In case you forgot, this Saturday (4/16) is <strong>El Clásico</strong> in what most likely will be four encounters between Barcelona and Madrid. The sad thing is, with Barca having an 8 point lead with 7 games to go and the likely head-to-head tiebreaker, this El Clásico will be more about morbo and momentum for the likely UEFA Champions League tie and Copa del Ray final. In many ways, the El Clásico on Saturday could end-up being one of the least significant El Clásicos in history. That is, unless something truly morbo-ic happens like a pig’s head being tossed on the pitch. We can always wish.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><em>Stephen Kuzner is a Baltimore</em><em>-based Blogger for WorldFootballDaily.com who specializes in You can reach him on Facebook at <a href="http://facebook.com/BarcaBlogger" target="_blank"> facebook.com/BarcaBlogger</a> or Twitter at @<a href="http://twitter.com/BarcaBlogger" target="_blank">BarcaBlogger</a>, or at BarcaBlogger.com.</em></p>
By Stephen Kuzner, WFD La Liga Blogger
2011-04-11T18:08:00Z
Josh's Bundesliga Recap - Matchday 29
Josh Morris
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Joshs-Bundesliga-Recap---Matchday-29/105785757690332499.html
2011-04-11T11:26:00Z
2011-04-11T11:26:00Z
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Bundesliga Matchday 29</strong></span><em><strong><br /></strong></em></p>
<p><strong>1. FC Nürnberg v. FC Bayern München 1:1 (0:1)</strong></p>
<p><strong>Goal Scorers: Nürnberg Eigler 60’; FCB – Müller 5’</strong></p>
<p>EasyCredit Stadion – 48, 548</p>
<p>This Bavarian derby started so promising for FCB, a brilliant cross-filed through ball from Robben to Müller – one in which Müller almost failed to control - but finished well. Mehmet Ekici was once again the player of the game. The Howler of the weekend? The Munich goal... Kraft… He tried to clear the ball (at numerous points), but only got it as far as Eigler who obliged him by knocking it in from 40 meters. Another Kraft error should have gone in earlier, but Munich got lucky… The real error Kraft made seems to be his presence - his name on the team sheet has been a continual bridge too far for the Heads of State at Munich. Louis van Gaal has been released with immediate effect. Assistant manager, Andries Jonker, will take over until the end of the season.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Hamburger SV v. Borussia Dortmund 1:1 (1:0)</strong></p>
<p><strong>Goal Scorers: HSV – van Nistelrooy (pk) 39’; BVB – Kuba 90’</strong></p>
<p>Imtech Arena – 57,000 </p>
<p>The lead at the top is now 5 points. It still seems too wide for Leverkusen… I thought that when it was double figures though… Dortmund continues to impress, however. To fight and crawl their way back to a draw was impressive, and a deserved draw as well. Nuri Sahin still pulls the strings for BVB (61/75 pass success), but Kuba should get the plaudits. At the end of the day, Dortmund pummeled HSV’s goal. Continuous wide play (27 crosses) and break neck speed had HSV on their heels. HSV’s goal came off a penalty when Petric was brought down in the box. Ruud van Nistelrooy converted with ease.</p>
<p> *If you have the time you should YouTube Dortmund manager, Klopp’s goal celebration.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>FC Schalke 04 v. VfL Wolfsburg 1:0 (0:0)</strong></p>
<p><strong>Goal Scorers: Schalke – Jurado 76’</strong></p>
<p>Veltins Arena – 61,600</p>
<p>After that <em>certain </em>midweek victory Schalke may be out of gas, which seems only natural following Schalke’s other midweek victories met with a drop in form in the league. Schalke goalkeeper, Manuel Neuer, has assured Royal Blue fans that the partying will not be too crazy assuring them that the only drink will be “water and apple juice.” This match matters more for Wolfsburg as they try to beat the drop. This is also Felix “Saddam” Magath’s first trip back to Gelsenkirchen (since he left the helm last month).</p>
<p>Schalke have a foot in the Champion's League semifinals, and are now in the top half of the Bundesliga table. </p>
<p>All’s well in Gelsenkirchen? </p>
<p>Ralf Rangnick has Schalke fighting in ways that Magath could not. If this match was a month ago it probably would have ended 0-0, but Jurado and the rest of the Royal Blues fought and scrapped a win.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Bayer 04 Leverkusen v. FC St. Pauli 2:1 (0:0)</strong></p>
<p><strong>Goal Scorers: Leverkusen – Kießling 66’, Bender 77’; St. Pauli – Takyi 58’</strong></p>
<p>Bay Arena – 30, 210</p>
<p>Five points, that’s it! Takyi sought to throw a wrench in the wheel after a sloppy bit of defense from Leverkusen, but Leverkusen responded quickly. A brilliant back heel from Castro to Derdiyok and finished superbly by Kießling. Michael “Big Impact” Ballack had a rocket of a free kick saved, but Leverkusen would go ahead by the increasingly reliable Lars Bender – although it should have been saved. Great match though – St. Pauli may be heading down but nobody can argue with their determination (I wish the same could be said for their fans’ antics last week… The DFB has decided that St. Pauli will play their next home game behind closed doors).</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>SC Freiburg v. 1899 Hoffenheim 3:2 (1:2)</strong></p>
<p><strong>Goal Scorers: Freiburg – Schuster 23’, Cisse (pk) 60’, Butscher 78’; Hoffenheim – Ibisevic (pk) 34’, Babel 42’</strong></p>
<p>Badenova Stadion – 24,000 </p>
<p>Great match. Shuster’s opening goal was either a complete fluke or brilliant. Knocking it in from the corner looked great, but I think it may have been lucky. This ended up being a match of penalties and more penalty questions. Hoffenheim has a legitimate argument that they should have received one in the first ten minutes, but went begging. Ryan Babel’s goal was a hint at the promise he should have showed at Liverpool, taking on the Freiburg defense alone.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Eintracht Frankfurt v. SV Werder Bremen 1:1 (0:0)</strong></p>
<p><strong>Goal Scorers: Frankfurt – Fenin 83; Bremen – Altintop (OG) 58’</strong></p>
<p>Commerzbank Arena – 51,500</p>
<p>A great diving header goal from Fenin helped save Altintop’s earlier own goal blunder to help keep Frankfurt away from the drop for one more week. In 14<sup>th</sup> and five points away from trouble maybe Frankfurt can correct the early calendar blunders.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Hannover 96 v. 1. FSV Mainz 05 2:0 (1:0)</strong></p>
<p><strong>Goal Scorers: Hannover – Ya Konan (pk) 45’, Pinto 59’;</strong></p>
<p>AWD Arena – 48,000</p>
<p>Hannover is getting back on track, and have third place to show for it. A straightforward penalty put the 96ers ahead just before the half. A pinto rocket goal just after the break sealed the points.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>VfB Stuttgart v. 1. FC Kaiserslautern 2:4 (2:1)</strong></p>
<p><strong>Goal Scorers: VfB – Kuzmanovic (pk) 26’, Pogrebnyak 39’; Kaiserslautern – Lakic 17’, 79’, Hoffer 68’, Rivic 86’</strong></p>
<p>Mercedes-Benz Arena – 39,500</p>
<p>Lakic’s opening goal was powerful. A towering header over the flaccid VfB defense. I wish I could say his celebration was strong, but as he flexed his bicep I simply felt sorry for him. However, his second goal, another towering and powerful header, was not met with a Hulk Hogan flex. For VfB, Kuzmanovic’s penalty came after karate kick to the chest. Now Pogrebnyak’s goal may have been the goal of the weekend. A perfect through ball and an inch perfect pass for a diving Pogrebnyak. Kaiserslautern were simply too strong for a weak VfB defense. Total lack of communication.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Borussia Mönchengladbach v. 1. FC Köln 5:1 (3:0)</strong></p>
<p><strong>Goal Scorers: Gladbach – Arango 29’, Reus 34’, 39’, Daems (pk) 65’, Nordtveit 67’; Köln – Novakovic 50’</strong></p>
<p>Stadion im Borussia Park – 53,104</p>
<p>Derby Day! An absolute massacre. If Gladbach played their rivals each week they might be playing in the Bundesliga next season…Köln just looked awful. The opening goal, a corner, was one from the training ground because there was no defense! Speaking of that, the next goal(s) was the exact same: terrible, terrible defense from the Köln. Köln didn’t really deserve their goal, but Gladbach are <em>still </em>awful in defense and it showed.</p>
<p>*Moment of brilliance in minute 34 from Reus – go watch this goal! </p>
<p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><br /></span></strong></p>
Josh Morris
2011-04-11T11:26:00Z
Mehdi's Serie A Round 32 Recap
Mehdi
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Mehdis-Serie-A-Round-32-Recap/704157368829528831.html
2011-04-11T05:45:00Z
2011-04-11T05:45:00Z
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<em><strong> </strong></em><br />
<div id="content"><em><strong>RELLEGATION BATTLE</strong></em><br /><br /> <em><strong><br />Lecce</strong></em>: Cagliari (H), Genoa (A), Chievo (A), Napoli (H), Bari (A), Lazio (H)<br /><br /> With 34 points and excellent recent form which includes wins over Juventus and Udinese Lecce are almost there.<br /><br /> <em><strong>Sampdoria</strong></em>: Milan (A), Bari (H), Brescia (H), Genoa (H), Palermo (H), Roma (A)<br /><br /> From Champions League to Serie B? Sampdoria's penny pinching president, Riccardo Garrone, has to be blamed for this mess. Sampdoria were a crap side that punched above their weight due to Cassano and Pazzini and of course Del Neri. The team are demoralised and struggle to score. I think they're doomed.<br /><br /> <em><strong>Parma</strong></em>: Inter (H), Udinese (A), Palermo (H), Bologna (A), Juventus (H), Cagliari (A)<br /><br /> The fixture list hasn't been kind to Parma. They're relying on the misfortunes of others. If they're brave they'll go all out against an Inter side that should be mentally and physically exhausted from chasing down four goals against Schalke.<br /><br /> <em><strong>Cesena</strong></em>: Bari (H), Bologna (A), Inter (H), Cagliari (A), Brescia (H), Genoa (A)<br /><br /> With home games against Bari and Brescia, Cesena are masters of their own destiny. If they win those two, they'll stay up.<br /><br /> <em><strong>Brescia</strong></em>: Genoa (A), Milan (H), Sampdoria (A), Catania (H), Cesena (A), Fiorentina (H)<br /><br /> As with Cesena they face direct relegation rivals. Brescia have suddenly become hard to beat with only two defeats, to Lazio and Juve, since January. The problem is turning those draws into wins.<br /><br /> <em><strong>Bari</strong></em>: Forget about it. They're done. Relegation will be confirmed by the end of the month.<br /><br /><br /> <em><strong>JUVENTUS</strong></em> 3 (Rossi 50 og, Matri 63, Toni 83)<br /> <em><strong>GENOA</strong></em> 2 (Bonucci 7 og, Flores 57)<br /><br /> Both teams traded ogs. Antonelli drove a centre into the box, Floro Flores took a touch to control before slamming a low drive in off Storari's right post. A Pepe centre flicked off Toni's heals and landed at Matri's feet, a sharp turn onto his right foot gave him a yard on fat boy Milanetto before he fired inside the right post. Toni held off a defender as he ran onto an Aquilani through ball then flicked the ball wide of Eduardo. Excellent finish. He missed a much easier chance minutes later.<br /><br /> <em><strong>Attendance</strong></em>: 23,137<br /> <em><strong>Assists</strong></em>: n/a, n/a, Antonelli, Toni, Aquilani<br /><br /><br /> <em><strong>BARI</strong></em> 1 (Gazzi 33)<br /> <em><strong>CATANIA</strong></em> 1 (Maxi Lopez 44)<br /><br /> Gazzi headed Bari into the lead from a corner. Maxi Lopez scored a superb equaliser. He waved in and out between two defenders then curled the ball inside the right post. Bergessio should have won it for Catania but missed two absolute sitters. I'm not a fan of Argentinean top heavy Catania but they're almost certainly safe.<br /><br /> <em><strong>Attendance</strong></em>: 15,000<br /> <em><strong>Assists</strong></em>: Rudolf (ck), n/a<br /><br /><br /> <em><strong>BOLOGNA</strong></em> 0<br /> <em><strong>NAPOLI </strong></em>2 (Mascara 30, Hamsik 47 Pen)<br /><br /> Lavezzi flicked on a centre, Viviano scrambled across goal and spilled the ball to the onrushing Mascara, 1-0. It was a bad day for Viviano, he tripped over Lavezzi to concede the penalty. Like Viviano, Di Vaio had an off day. He shot wide with an open goal at his mercy and also missed the target from a couple of yards out.<br /><br /> <em><strong>Attendance</strong></em>: 33,092<br /> <em><strong>Assists</strong></em>: n/a, Lavezzi (won pen)<br /><br /><br /> <em><strong>CAGLIARI</strong></em> 1 (Cossu 22)<br /> <em><strong>BRESCIA</strong></em> 1 (Caracciolo 61)<br /><br /> Astori pumped a longball into the Brescia box, of all people Cossu, who usually makes the bullets, not fire them, capitalised as Arcari was caught yards off his line and Cossu went past him before tapping into an empty net. Eder was shown a second yellow for diving but despite being a man down Brescia rescued a point. Caracciolo headed them level from another superb Diamanti set piece delivery.<br /><br /> <em><strong>Attendance</strong></em>: 10,000<br /> <em><strong>Red Card</strong></em>: Eder 46 (Brescia)<br /> <em><strong>Assists</strong></em>: Astori, Diamanti (fk)<br /><br /><br /> <em><strong>LAZIO</strong></em> 2 (Hernanes 23, Floccari 77)<br /> <em><strong>PARMA</strong></em> 0<br /><br /> Hernanes got Lazio's Champions League push back on track with a fantastic goal. He controlled a Brocchi pass on his chest and fired off a shot BETWEEN two defenders which dipped over Mirante in the Parma goal. He made the second goal, against the run of play, with a superb lofted pass. Floccari pulled it down and picked his spot.<br /><br /> If Lazio get into the Champions League it will be Hernanes' last season for the club. He's good enough to grace any team on the planet. Lazio are a striker away from being genuine title contenders. Someone like Giuseppe Rossi would be ideal.<br /><br /> <em><strong>Attendance</strong></em>: 30,000<br /> <em><strong>Assists</strong></em>: Brocchi, Hernanes<br /><br /><br /> <em><strong>PALERMO</strong></em> 2 (Kurtic 5, Pinilla 36)<br /> <em><strong>CESENA</strong></em> 2 (Parolo 92, Giaccherini 96)<br /><br /> Liverani spread the play wide with a fantastic first time pass over the Cesena defence, Balzaretti rolled the ball to the centre circle for Kurtic to score his first Serie A goal in only his second appearance. Balzaretti also made the second. Antonioli made a brilliant save to keep out a Pinilla header, Balzaretti fired the rebound back across goal and the Chilean stabbed over the line. Van Bergen was sent off for going through the back of Pinilla. Parolo beat Sirigu at his near post with a low drive. Palermo wasted two chances on the break to finish off Cesena and paid the price. A longball into the box was headed down by Bogdani then Parolo, Pellegrino flicked it on and as appeals went up for handball against a Palermo player Giaccherini swept first time into the bottom corner and the Palermo bench cleared. Zamparni must have blown a gasket.<br /><br /> Sirigu is not Italy material. He makes far too many mistake. Cagliari's Agazzi is a better goalkeeper and more worthy of the #3 spot (behind Buffon and Viviano).<br /><br /> <em><strong>Attendance</strong></em>: 22,375<br /> <em><strong>Red Card</strong></em>: Van Bergen 74 (Cesena) <br /> <em><strong>Assists</strong></em>: Balzaretti, Balzaretti, n/a, n/a<br /><br /><br /> <em><strong>SAMPDORIA</strong></em> 1 (Maccarone 69)<br /> <em><strong>LECCE</strong></em> 2 (Di Michele 39, Olivera 66)<br /><br /> Palombo got the ball caught in his feet after Sampdoria struggled to clear a corner, Di Michele picked his pocket before thrashing the ball past Curci. Olivera, who counts Sampdoria among his former clubs, had a shot charged down but scored on the rebound. Big Mac Maccarone gave Samp hope when Donati failed to make a routine clearance but Mannini ended it when he earned a second yellow for body checking Jeda.<br /><br /> <em><strong>Attendance</strong></em>: 26,621<br /> <em><strong>Assists</strong></em>: n/a, n/a, Guberti<br /><br /><br /> <em><strong>FIORENTINA</strong></em> 1 (Vargas 80)<br /> <em><strong>MILAN</strong></em> 2 (Seedorf 8, Pato 41)<br /><br /> Ibrahimovic tried to release Seedorf with a reverse pass but the ball was cut out, Pato intercepted and headed down and the Dutchman who hit a rising shot into the top left corner. Lovely finish. Seedorf returned the favour but with only Boruc to beat, Pato shot straight at the former Celtic 'keeper. He wasted another easy chance but made no mistake at the third time of asking after good work by Ibrahimovic and Boateng. Milan should have been 0-4 up early in the second half but Ibrahimovic missed two sitters. He was picked out by a longball, drew out Boruc but shot wide of the target. Then after a one-two with Pato he blazed horribly wide from 6 yards. Shocking miss. Milan then sat back and resorted to longballs, handing the initiative to the hosts. Montolivo stung Abbiati's palms with a first time shot and Vargas scored via a deflection off Gattuso on the rebound. Ibrahimovic, who picked up an earlier booking which ruled him out of next week's game, was shown a straight red for swearing at a linesman. That's a three match ban.<br /><br /> Ibrahimovic won't be back until a daunting trip to the Olimpico to face Roma. I would expect he'll start on the bench. With Pato on fire since dating Barbara Berlusconi (release of fluids) and Inzaghi due imminently Allegri doesn't need him nor will he take the risk on a player who has lost the plot.<br /><br /> <em><strong>Attendance</strong></em>: 32,677<br /> <em><strong>Red Card</strong></em>: Ibrahimovic 87 (Milan)<br /> <em><strong>Assists</strong></em>: Pato, Boateng, n/a<br /><br /><br /> <strong><em>9 April 2011</em></strong><br /><br /> <em><strong>INTER</strong></em> 2 (Cambiasso 64, Maicon 84)<br /> <em><strong>CHIEVO</strong></em> 0<br /><br /> This was a fairly routine, hard fought, win for the Nerazzurri. Constant should have given the visitors the lead but failed to connect from six yards. Maicon pulled back a centre and Cambiasso scored via a deflection. Milito was tackled in the box, the ball broke for Maicon who scored a rare tap-in. His goals are usually more spectacular.<br /><br /> <em><strong>Attendance</strong></em>: 61,456<br /> <em><strong>Assists</strong></em>: n/a, n/a<br /><br /><br /> <em><strong>UDINESE</strong></em> 1 (Di Natale 88)<br /> <em><strong>ROMA </strong></em>2 (Totti 57 Pen, Totti 94)<br /><br /> Pinzi tripped Pizarro to concede the penalty. Corradi flicked on a longball and Di Natale lost Juan to volley Udinese level. In the dying seconds of injury time Riise cut back a throw-in and Totti volleyed a heartbreaking winner into the roof of the net.<br /><br /> Totti became a dressing room cancer under Ranieri, under Montella he's back to being a hero. The result highlights Udinese's lack of depth. Sanchez was injured and in his place Denis started and he in turn he was replaced by Corradi. Two mediocre forwards. Udinese have a very hard run-in though Lazio's form has been poor so they're still in the hunt for fourth place. They'll need to invest big money on a forward if they want to make a mark in the Champions League, should they get there.<br /><br /> <em><strong>Attendance</strong></em>: 25,000<br /> <em><strong>Assists</strong></em>: Pizarro (won pen), Corradi, Riise<br /><br /></div>
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<p><em>For more of Mehdi's work, check out:</em><br /> <a href="http://soccer-europe.com/" target="_blank">http://soccer-europe.com</a> <em><br />Follow Mehdi on Twitter:</em><br /><a title="http://twitter.com/calcioeurope" href="http://twitter.com/calcioeurope" target="_blank">http://twitter.com/calcioeurope</a></p>
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</div>
Mehdi
2011-04-11T05:45:00Z
Mehdi's UCL 2010-2011 Quarter-Finals Week 1
Mehdi
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Mehdis-UCL-2010-2011-Quarter-Finals-Week-1/-539754385630873899.html
2011-04-11T05:34:00Z
2011-04-11T05:34:00Z
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<div id="content"><br /> <em><strong><br />CHELSEA</strong></em> 0<br /> <em><strong>MANCHESTER UNITED</strong></em> 1 (Rooney 24)<br /><br /> Giggs flew pass Bosingwa, who is almost 10 years his junior, took Carrick's fabulous crossfield pass in his stride, pulled the ball back and that despicable lowlife Rooney tapped past a flat footed Chelsea defence. As an attacking force Chelsea were a non event until the last minute of the first half. Torres got the faintest of touches to a Drogba cross, the ball rebounded off the inside of the right post and Lampard's volley was hacked clear by Evra.<br /><br /> Ramires wasted another excellent Drogba delivery, heading towards the corner flag from the penalty spot. Van der Sar made a brilliant fingertip save to deny Torres his first Chelsea goal. In injury time Evra chopped down Ramires with a crude scissor tackle, should have been a penalty, and Torres ended another miserable outing for his new club, it was his best (which isn't saying much) when he picked up a booking for diving.<br /><br /> Given how Manchester United have defended Chelsea have a chance but desperately need Torres to catch fire and catch fire quickly. Drogba has been hopeless this year and Anelka is a flat track bully. A good performance for Essien would help. Over the past three years he's been about as effective as Steve Sidwell.<br /><br /> <em><strong>Attendance</strong></em>: 37,915<br /> <em><strong>Assist</strong></em>: Giggs<br /><br /><br /> <em><strong>BARCELONA</strong></em> 5 (Iniesta 2, Alves 34, Pique 53, Keita 60, Xavi 86)<br /> <em><strong>SHAKHTAR DONETSK</strong></em> 1 (Rakytskyy 59)<br /><br /> Shakhtar had penalty appeals turned down, I didn't see a replay, before Barcelona raced upfield and promptly scored when Messi's deflected pass broke for Iniesta. Luiz Adriano ran through Barca's centre backs but shot wide and Willian missed an open goal after Valdez was caught yards off his line chasing down Alves' underhit backpass. Alves beat the offside trap onto Iniesta's terrific crossfield pass to score Barca's second.<br /><br /> Pique scored Barca's third via a deflection from a corner. Rakytskyy deftly volleyed in a free kick. Within seconds Keita restored Barca's three goal lead. Messi ran in from the left and as four Shakhtar players went with him, he rolled the ball square for the onrushing Keita to crash a first time shot into the top left corner. The pick of Barca's goals. Luiz Adriano hit the inside of Valdez's right post from a tight angle. Xavi side footed in Barca's 5th after good work by monstrously overrated Dani Alves.<br /><br /> <em><strong>Attendance</strong></em>: 86,847<br /> <em><strong>Assists</strong></em>: n/a, Iniesta, n/a, Srna (fk), Messi, Alves<br /><br /><em><strong></strong></em><br /><br /> <em><strong>REAL MADRID</strong></em> 4 (Adebayor 4, Adebayor 57, Di Maria 72, Ronaldo 87)<br /> <em><strong>TOTTENHAM </strong></em>0<br /><br /> Spurs suffered a triple early blow. Lennon had a panic attack and couldn't play then Gomes fumbled an Adebayor header and Crouch was shown a second yellow for diving into challenge Marcelo for a loose ball, and winning it cleanly. Having already been booked and playing in Spain that's how that goes. Real Madrid were robbed of a first half penalty for handball. Adebayor headed in his second from a Marcelo cross. Di Maria scored with a tremendous left foot shot from the edge of the box. Gomez, outstanding against Milan, ended how he began with another blunder.<br /><br /> <em><strong>Attendance</strong></em> : 80,000<br /> <em><strong>Red Card</strong></em> : Crouch 15 (Tottenham)<br /> <em><strong>Assists</strong></em> : Ozil (ck), Marcelo, Ozil, Kaka'<br /><br /><br /> <em><strong>INTER</strong></em> 2 (Stankovic 1, Milito 34)<br /> <em><strong>SCHALKE </strong></em>5 (Matip 17, Edu 40, Raul 53, Ranocchia 57 og, Edu 75)<br /><br /> For the second consecutive game there was a goal inside the first minute at the San Siro (that has to be a record). Neuer headed out a longball under pressure from Milito, Stankovic, standing inside the centre circle, met the goalkeeper's clearance with a sensational first time volley. Schalke weren't at all phased by the goal and Raul had two chances before Matip scrambled the visitors level from a corner. Cambiasso headed a Sneijder cross back across goal and Milito beat the offside trap to restore Inter's lead. Edu ran between Zanetti, who couldn't catch him, and Chivu onto a through pass, Chivu dived into a tackle, deflecting the Brazilian's shot, Julio Cesar made a desperate save but Edu scrambled to his feet and volleyed in the rebound. Great finish.<br /><br /> Milito should have made it 3-2 inside the opening minute of the second half but having pulled down a great Sneijder pass with an equally great first touch he flashed wide of the left post. Farfan played a one-two with Jurado before flicking a pass to Raul, an exquisite first touch allowed him to turn Chivu and he still managed to find a gap between Julio Cesar and the near post as Ranocchia dived in with a tackle. It was the first time Schalke had lead on the night. Jurado ran into space down the right on a counter attack and Ranocchia turned his centre past his own 'keeper. Edu's theatrics earned Chivu a second yellow. Farfan nutmegged Ranocchia on the edge of the box, scuffed his shot, rounded Julio Cesar and shot again, the ball clipped Ranocchia's heals and bounced off a post, Cordoba failed to get good distance on his clearance, Papadopoulos headed the ball to Baumjohann and as Edu turned onto his pass he rifled a shot inside the left post. Brilliant goal, amazing game.<br /><br /> Raul was lost in the shuffle at Real Madrid but in a Schalke side without their level of household names he's outstanding, in Europe at least. Do I really need to repeat what I have been saying about Leonardo all season or the running count on the goals Inter have conceded? Rabbit killer. He has the dubious honour of leading both Milan clubs to heavy defeats in Europe. He's not first team coach material but he has the makings of a good assistant coach.<br /><br /> <em><strong>Attendance</strong></em>: 75,000<br /> <em><strong>Red Card</strong></em>: Chivu 62 (Inter)<br /> <em><strong>Assists</strong></em>: n/a, n/a, Cambiasso, n/a, Farfan, n/a, Baumjohann<br /><br /><em>For more of Mehdi's work, check out:</em><br /> <a href="http://soccer-europe.com/" target="_blank">http://soccer-europe.com</a> <em><br />Follow Mehdi on Twitter:</em><br /><a title="http://twitter.com/calcioeurope" href="http://twitter.com/calcioeurope" target="_blank">http://twitter.com/calcioeurope</a><br /><br /></div>
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Mehdi
2011-04-11T05:34:00Z
Welcome To UEFA Champion League - Wipe The Slate Clean FC Internazionale
Frank Tigani - SerieAWeekly
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Welcome-To-UEFA-Champion-League---Wipe-The-Slate-Clean-FC-Internazionale/590964092279630133.html
2011-04-05T13:28:00Z
2011-04-05T13:28:00Z
This evening UEFA Champions League resumes and the quarter finals commence with Inter’s home clash against German outfit, Schalke. <br /><br />It has not been a fruitful season in Europe for Italian football with Inter the last remaining side from the peninsula involved in European competition. However, despite their heavy loss in the Milan derby over the weekend, the reigning European champions have good reason to believe they can make the quarter finals for the second consecutive season. <br /><br />On paper the Benemeata are by far the strongest of the two sides. Leading their attack will be Samuel Eto’o who was unplayable in Inter’s dramatic victory against Bayern in the second leg of the last round. After a less than impressive derby showing, the Cameroon star will be eager to return to form and help his side take an early advantage in the tie. <br /><br />Whilst Inter have been scoring freely since Leonardo took over the helm in January, they have shown weaknesses in defence that against the likes of Klaas-Jan Huntelaar and Raul, in particular, could prove problematic. With Lucio ruled out of the tie and with long term absentee Walter Samuel still on the sidelines, Leonardo will be forced to set out a makeshift backline with the vulnerable Christian Chivu expected to be pitted alongside the still developing Andrea Ranocchia. <br /><br />Incredibly, this quarter final will see Inter take on a German side for the fifth time already in this season’s Champions League. In the group stage the Nerazzurri played Werder Bremen twice, beating them four nil at the San Siro before losing three nil to them in Germany. Then, of course, Inter traded wins with Bayern in the round of 16 and only managed to proceed at the expense of the Bavarians on the away goal rule. <br /><br />Though Inter have fared reasonably well against German sides in the past year, with their historic two nil triumph over Bayern Munich last May easily the pick of the bunch, their record since the 2006 Champions League season is not all that impressive. In nine matches played against German opposition in this time, the Italians have only managed three wins, two draws and have lost four times. If there is one thing in favour of the Nerazzurri it is that their three victories have come in their last five matches. <br /><br />In a year that has seen Germany’s Bundesliga take over the Serie A in UEFA’s Coefficient ranking system, Inter’s edge over Bundesliga sides and indeed their European triumph last May have served as a source of pride for Italian football. <br /><br />The Nerazzurri will start as favourites and will look to continue flying the Italian flag into the semi-finals of the Champions League. In a tactical reshuffle, Leonardo is pipped to drop his favoured 4-2-crazy system that contributed to his side’s downfall in the derby della Madoninna in favour for a more balanced 4-3-1-2 system with Diego Milito to pair Samuel Eto’o in attack. <br /><br />The Champions League quarter-finals promises much in the way of intrigue and drama. This tie between the Italian giants and the less fancied Germans promises just as much. Questions pertaining about Inter’s ability to retain their title and whether or not they will continue to be the bane of German sides will be answered come the end of this fascinating tie.<br /><br /><br /><em><span class="TextRun SCX256304858" style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,Sans-Serif;">Frank Tigani is a writer for Italian Football Website, Serie A Weekly.com. He is also the creator of acmilanblog.net and is a editor for the Canadian Soccer Magazine publication, </span><span class="TextRun SCX256304858" style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,Sans-Serif;">11 Players</span><span class="TextRun SCX256304858" style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri,Sans-Serif;">. Originally from Australia, Frank covered Australian football and Australia’s World Cup campaign during the 2010 South Africa FIFA World Cup for, just-football.com.</span><br /><br /></em>You can read more from Frank Tigani on the pages of <a href="http://www.serieaweekly.com/" target="_blank">SerieAWeekly.com</a> and make sure to
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Frank Tigani - SerieAWeekly
2011-04-05T13:28:00Z
Devoured by Minnows
Vincent
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Devoured-by-Minnows/-348746686856544840.html
2011-04-05T05:33:00Z
2011-04-05T05:33:00Z
<p> A season removed from their worst in team history, and a day after their two to nil victory over fellow perennial top-table finishers Roma, Juventus find themselves still tragically glued to the 7<sup>th</sup> spot in the Serie A table. While last season can only be explained as a total disaster, both on the field and in the board room, the re-tooled 2010/2011 edition of Juve are undefeated against the traditional “top 4” of Roma, Inter and Milan.</p>
<p> So, why is it Juve are a virtual lock to miss the Champions’ League again this season, and also in danger of no European football at all next season? In all likelihood, it will be their performances against the minnows of Italy that will doom this Juventus squad.</p>
<p> In England, it is commonly accepted that how you fair against the top teams decides your championship caliber. Perhaps this season aside, teams like Arsenal, United and Chelsea are expected to pocket full points against the likes of lower-tier teams like your Wigans and Wolves of the league with very few setbacks. It is how the eventual champion copes against the tops of the league that traditional decides the Premier League each season. “To be the best, you have to beat the best,” so the cliché goes. But to paraphrase Jose Mourinho in his time at Inter, Italy is different.</p>
<p> Essentially, Mourinho, even in his short time in Italy, pinpointed the subtle difference separating a Serie A champion from a Premier League champion. While it is important to take points off your closest rivals in Italy, in a league of tactical systems and tightly contested games week in and week out, it is how you fair against the lower teams that decides your Scudetto chances at the end of each season.</p>
<p>And where do a once proud champion and current 7<sup>th</sup> place team fit into all this? Unfortunately for Juve, this season they are experiencing Mourinho’s words the hard way.</p>
<p> With a mere seven games remaining in their season, Juventus has completed their games with all three <em>other </em>traditional powers in Italy, and of the 18 points possible, they have plundered 14 from their rivals. An impressive haul for any team in any league wouldn’t you say? But this is also a team that beat their fiercest rivals in Inter only to be humiliated in back to back weeks by Lecce and Bologna respectively. Not to mention losses to Bari and Parma this season as well. For Juve, each step forward seemly always precedes two steps back.</p>
<p> So, how will this Juventus team respond this time around? The win in Roma will go a long way to restore the confidence of the players, and possibly even some of the faith in manager Gigi Delneri. But with Juventus’ tendency to bottle games after big victories, Delneri will to have his side in a big game frame of mind against even lowly Genoa this coming match day at home. His job may even depend on it.</p>
<p> One thing is for sure, after another rollercoaster-like season, it won’t be Juventus’ record against the big boys of Italy that will doom them to the infamy of a season without European football next year. Sadly, when the bianconeri faithful survey the remains of their team at the end of this season, they’ll have to conclude the true demise of their team’s aspirations were the result of being eaten alive by minnows. </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
Vincent
2011-04-05T05:33:00Z
Josh's Bundesliga Recap - Matchday 28
Josh Morris
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Joshs-Bundesliga-Recap---Matchday-28/-768503886370535725.html
2011-04-04T17:00:00Z
2011-04-04T17:00:00Z
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Bundesliga Matchday 28</strong></span></p>
<p><strong>Borussia Dortmund v. Hannover 96 4:1 (0:0)</strong></p>
<p><strong>Goal Scorers: BVB – Götze 59’, Barrios 64’, 73’, Großkreutz 83’; Hannover – Abdellaoue 57’</strong></p>
<p>After the bomb threat outside of the Signal Iduna Park the previous day, Dortmund were just feeling lucky to get on the pitch and try and get back on track (although they never felt they went off course…). After a tense first half, BVB responded well in the second half. It took a moment of sloppy defending and the following 96ers goal from Abdellaoue to compel Mario Götze to take over, and how! He showed glimpses of the future for German football. He is a classy midfielder who can fight and win back possession but also slalom through defense as he did this weekend. This should be a minor hiccup for Hannover, FCB overtook them for third, but I think Hannover’s momentum should propel them back.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>FC Bayern München v. Borussia Mönchengladbach 1:0 (0:0)</strong></p>
<p><strong>Goal Scorers: FCB Robben 77’</strong></p>
<p>The press is saying that Bayern are <em>back</em>. Personally, I don’t see it. Yes, they have hired Jupp Heynckes as their upcoming manager (again?!), but they walked through this match like zombies. There are very few seasons in Germany in which FCB are fighting for third place. The Bavarians will be happy when this season is dead and buried. The result was never <em>really </em>in doubt, Bayern holding 61.7% of possession, but that has been the story of the season – bundles of possession and a lack of true goal scoring prowess. I realize they have scored 3 or 4 a couple of times, but these seem to be the exception that proves the rule.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>FC St. Pauli v. FC Schalke 04 0:2 (0:1)</strong></p>
<p><strong>Goal Scorers: Schalke – Raul 26’, Draxler 66’</strong></p>
<p>*This game was abandoned after 88 minutes after a beer cup hit assistant referee, Thomas Schiffner. Up until this point, it would have been a straight forward win for Schalke, which is odd because they did not control possession and were matched for grit by the home side – that is sort of St. Pauli’s thing…</p>
<p>*Schalke look forward to a mid week Champions League match.</p>
<p>* Two acts of violence this weekend, the bomb scare the day before the Dortmund match, and the Schalke match, is a worrying sign for a league that usually squashes the violence out. The German FA will take serious steps to get this out.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>SV Werder Bremen v. VfB Stuttgart 1:1 (1:1)</strong></p>
<p><strong>Goal Scorers: Bremen – Frings 34’; VfB – Hajnal 13’</strong> </p>
<p>This match was an exciting relegation battle – and this almost seems like an oxymoron for these two storied clubs. Bremen walk away in 12<sup>th</sup> only four points away from relegation, and VfB are only two points away. In all honesty, Bremen <em>should </em>be safe because the teams around them (especially Frankfurt) are in serious danger of going down. Bremen have the class to stay up, but conventional wisdom is not consulted for relegation. Bremen controlled the match, registering 57% possession.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>1. FSV Mainz 05 v. SC Freiburg 1:1 (0:1)</strong></p>
<p><strong>Goal Scorers: Mainz – Allagui 74’; Freiburg Cisse 1’</strong></p>
<p>Freiburg could not have gotten off to a better start. On the road, against a nearby rival in the table, and against a Mainz side who have been playing better. Speaking of Mainz, this was the type of game they would have won in the first half of the season. Especially with 66% possession! 12 shots and only one goal! 66% passing completion – which is not a great stat, but against Freiburg’s 34% it looks <em>better!</em> The exciting player at Mainz, no not Schürrle, but Allagui nailed the equalizer to make a tense final fifteen minutes.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>1. FC Kaiserslautern v. Bayer 04 Leverkusen 0:1 (0:0)</strong></p>
<p><strong>Goal Scorers: Leverkusen – Sam 74’</strong></p>
<p>This is the sort of match Leverkusen needs to win, especially with the “Bundesliga Managerial Carousel” affecting them. They are losing Heynckes and getting Freiburg manager, Robin Dutt, at the end of the season, but on the field they look unfazed. Sidney Sam – arguably Leverkusen’s player of the season – knocked home the winner away at K-town. I don’t think this match was ever in doubt; it was just a matter of Leverkusen knocking in one of their 10 shots and turning their 60% possession into a goal. Kaiserslautern are only two points away from relegation, and are seemingly heading that way.</p>
<p>A question for Leverkusen next season is what will Dutt do with Ballack? His days are well behind him, and even in Germany – a league not as pacey as the EPL – still struggles to play at the top level.</p>
<p><strong><br />1899 Hoffenheim v. Hamburger SV 0:0 (0:0)</strong></p>
<p>Borden, Snooze, a game of errors, insipid…</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>1. FC Köln v. 1. FC Nürnberg 1:0 (0:0)</strong></p>
<p><strong>Goal Scorers: Köln – Novakovic 90+2</strong></p>
<p>Unlike the above dire match in Sinsheim, Novakovic saved the previous 90 minutes of hard work and grit by getting his home side the win in added time. In all fairness, Nürnberg deserved the draw – if not a win. Nürnberg, the form side of 2011, controlled this match and edged out possession, but were punished for a lapse in the end.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Vfl Wolfsburg v. Eintracht Frankfurt 1:1 (0:0)</strong></p>
<p><strong>Goal Scorers: VfL – Mandzukic 85’; Frankfurt – Meier 59’</strong></p>
<p> Wow… </p>
<p>I recommend Magath take his team to his infamous “hill” workout. I have never witnessed a game in which a draw is absolutely moronic. Wolfsburg should have capitalized and punished Frankfurt. 65% possession and 27 shots (compared to a measly 6 by Eintracht)! That was the story of this match… Personally, I am going to go work on my shooting, this match hurt to watch…</p>
<p><strong><em><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><br /></span></em></strong></p>
Josh Morris
2011-04-04T17:00:00Z
Adam's Barclays Premier League Roundup
Adam Johnson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Adams-Barclays-Premier-League-Roundup/672893683448478398.html
2011-04-04T05:52:00Z
2011-04-04T05:52:00Z
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Premier League Recap (April 2-3)</strong></span></p>
<p><strong>West Ham 2-4 Manchester United</strong></p>
<p>The Hammers shocked United in the first half and were at 2-0 at the break thanks to a pair of penalties converted by Mark Noble. You just knew, however, that if Man Utd got one then they would probably get two and then probably three. Well, that did happen thanks to Wayne Rooney. His hat trick gave United the lead and Chicharito got a fourth just to rub it in the faces of the home side. This team will win the title.</p>
<p><strong>Stoke 1-1 Chelsea</strong></p>
<p>This was actually a thrilling game. The last 20 minutes or so saw more chances than a couple full matches combined. Petr Cech was unbelievable in goal for Chelsea for most of the match even though Jonathan Walters opened the scoring with a great run and finish inside of ten minutes. Didier Drogba leveled the match after a perfect header from a Nic Anelka cross. The woodwork was rattled by both clubs but Stoke could not get a second goal they deserved and the match ended in a draw.</p>
<p><strong>Everton 2-2 Aston Villa</strong></p>
<p>This was a fairly big game for both clubs with Everton Streaking and Villa struggling. Leon Osman got the first for Everton with a good run and strike but Villa would get it back with a Darren Bent goal who was played in by Stuart Downing. Then the controversy started when Jermaine Beckford should’ve had a goal after his shot was ricocheted over the line but not given. While that was happening Bent went and scored again to give Villa the lead. Everton were awarded a penalty thanks to Jean Makoun taking down Phil Jagielka in the box. Although it may have been a make-up call it rightly got Everton a point when Leighton Baines put it away.</p>
<p><strong>Wigan 0-0 Tottenham</strong></p>
<p>Another disappointing result for Spurs. I guess you can’t blame them with Real Madrid coming up on Tuesday. </p>
<p><strong>Newcastle 4-1 Wolves</strong></p>
<p>Kevin Nolan gave Newcastle the lead after a Shola Ameobi flick on. Ameobi would get his to double the lead and Peter Lovenkrands made it three. Wolves would get one back through Sylvan Ebanks-Blake but that was it for the away side. Jonas Gutierrez even added a fourth to complete a great win.</p>
<p><strong>Birmingham 2-1 Bolton</strong></p>
<p>A battle of B’s and contrasting styles was won by Birmingham thanks to the wily veteran Kevin Phillips and midfielder Craig Gardner. Johan Elmander karate kicked a volley home to get one back but that was about it for Bolton.</p>
<p><strong>West Brom 2-1 Liverpool</strong></p>
<p>Anyone, save Liverpool fans, would be happy to see West Brom boss, Roy Hodgson, get a win against the club that sacked him just a couple months ago. His team did just that with a strong performance. It was 0-0 at the break but Liverpool would take the lead thanks to a Matin Skyrtel headed goal. West Brom equalized with a Chris Brunt penalty and would eventually get the lead on another penalty that Brunt smashed home after Pepe Reina weakly brought down Peter Odemwingie. This was a huge three points for West Brom in the relegation battle.</p>
<p><strong>Arsenal 0-0 Blackburn</strong></p>
<p>The reason I said that Manchester United will win the title has not to do with their play but the fact that Arsenal just doesn’t seem to want it. Another home draw to a lesser opponent has Gunners worldwide pissed off. They had their chances, 11 attempts on target, but Blackburn defended well, even with ten men.</p>
<p><strong>Manchester City 5-0 Sunderland</strong></p>
<p>Man City went up 2-0 (Adam Johnson and Carlos Tevez) early and Sunderland visibly gave up. The third, fourth, and fifth goals were scored by David Silva, Patrick Veiera, and Yaya Toure, respectively. That’s about all you need to know about this one.</p>
<p><strong>Fulham 3-0 Blackpool</strong></p>
<p>Bobby Zamora is looking good again and his two goals to start the match were proof of that. The London club would get a third and consequently get the three points.</p>
The two big Manchester clubs were the big winners as the three big London clubs all drew this weekend to liven up the race for Champions League spots. The relegation battle is becoming a dogfight and any of the bottom half could easily go down. No big matchup, but a good weekend in the Premier League.
<p> </p>
Adam Johnson
2011-04-04T05:52:00Z
Diary of a Street Footballer
Franklin Grimes
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Diary-of-a-Street-Footballer/196922843498530611.html
2011-04-01T19:15:00Z
2011-04-01T19:15:00Z
<p>If there’s but one thing we, footballers, share in common with skaters, it has to be the public nuisance status. Whenever either of us steps on the scene with a pair of cleats or a set of wheels under our feet, a rent-a-cop is already making tracks to shoo us away. The establishment’s beef with skating is understandable. Anyone, who has ever watched outtakes from a skate tape, knows the lengths these daredevils on dollies go to in pursuit of rock star status. It’s more an insurance liability than it is a health concern. In the case of footballers however, it’s all about the grass.</p>
<p>Most of Los Angeles is pretty much prime real estate, so it should really come as no surprise that green open spaces come at such a premium. There are very few public parks you and your mates can link up for a pickup game of footy without being threatened with citations or even a tussle with the Johnnies. No, the ratty remnants of crab grass, left over from the other football’s season, were far too precious to waste on a “commie sport like soccer”. If you wanted to play the beautiful game without the inside track of being a professional player or owning your own pitch, you had to know the right spots.</p>
<p>Having lived in Los Angeles for going on 22 years now, I managed to stumble into more than a few pickup games. Mondays and Fridays, I would lace up the flats to play 11s on the outfield of a muddied baseball diamond, nestled deep in the heart of West Hollywood. Tuesdays was invite-only at a secret location. I’ve been sworn to secrecy, but I can tell you this, the feeling of playing ‘winner stays on’ in the confines of a cage made me feel like a gladiator. At one point, there was even a game just a few steps removed from the sandlot that is Santa Monica beach. There we were, surrounded by bicycling bikini babes and fanny packed tourists, going for glory. I never realized how good I had it then.</p>
<p>Years later, the synthetic stuff would replace old-fashioned grass throughout most, if not all, of Los Angeles. The chokehold on playing fields only tightened. From then on, if I wanted to run a game of footy, I’d have no choice but to join a pay-to-play league. Where’s the fun in that? 8am sharp, Saturday morning, on such and such turf field, playing with a bunch of yuppies in a game reffed by some rummy out for beer money. Forget about it. I liken it to Old Vegas transitioning into the Disneyland that it is today.</p>
<p>Street football is Fight Club and even though most of the games have been snuffed, we, yardies, still get it in from time to time. To preserve the sanctity of those games, I am pleading the fifth; however, with the blessing of World Football Daily, I will share with you the Diary of a Street Footballer. Over the course of the next few weeks, I’ll spill the beans on Los Angeles’s best kept secret – the street football scene studded with pros, regular Joes, off-duty cops, bombshells and the occasional celebrity. It was a secret then, but it’d be a shame to not share it now. Stay tuned.</p>
<p> </p>
Franklin Grimes
2011-04-01T19:15:00Z
Welcome To The Derby della Madonnina
SerieAWeekly - Frank Tigani
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Welcome-To-The-Derby-della-Madonnina/-695968157664918713.html
2011-04-01T02:57:00Z
2011-04-01T02:57:00Z
This weekend in Italy’s Serie A Milan host Inter in the derby match that could decide this seasons’ Scudetto winner. Just two points separates the city rivals with Milan maintaining a fragile two point lead despite their recent drop in form. Inter, on the other hand, have been in great form of late and a win for them would put them in pole position to retain their domestic crown. <br /><br />Seven rounds remain in the Serie A after Saturday nights’ derby della Madonnina and it is for this reason that whoever does gain local bragging rights will become the favourite to win the title. <br /><br />For Milan, a win would see them extend their lead to five points. Despite Inter’s great form in recent matches, such a gap may prove too much for them especially as they are still involved in the Champions League, unlike Milan who can focus their efforts solely on domestic matters. <br /><br />Either a draw or a win for Inter would see the title race remain wide open perhaps making for a thrilling finish to the season. However, a win for Inter could see the Nerazzurri attain a slender yet significant one point lead that could provide the foundations of a late and successful bid to continue their domestic dominance of recent years. <br /><br />In recent matches the spark has disappeared from Milan’s displays. Eliminated by Champions League debutants Tottenham, unable to defeat bottom placed Bari and the loss to Palermo in the last round have dented the confidence of Max Allegri’s side at a most critical stage of the season. For this reason, losing to Inter could see Milan’s title challenge slowly slip away. <br /><br />In the derby played earlier this season, Milan grinded out a narrow yet deserving one nil victory largely thanks to the heroic display of Zlatan Ibrahimovic. The big Swede won and converted the penalty that separated the two sides and he remained a constant thorn to Inter’s backline even when the Rossoneri were reduced to ten men after Ignazio Abate’s dismissal. <br /><br />For the derby this weekend, Milan will be without Ibrahimovic and his absence could prove significant. The Swede has been instrumental throughout the season for Milan with his goals and ability to provide assists. Despite having led the Serie A for much of the season, Milan have struggled to find goals only scoring 51 in 30 matches and this will make Ibra’s absence all the more problematic for Max Allegri. <br /><br />Aside from what this weekend’s derby clash could mean for the title race, there is an intriguing subplot set to take place. Leonardo, who spent 13 fruitful years at Milan as a player, scout and head coach, will be directing Inter from the dugout as he meets his former employers for the first time as head coach of their hated rivals. <br /><br />Leonardo took over the reins at Inter in January after Rafa Benitez was asked to leave following a poor first half of the season. He has proved an instant success at his new club, helping his side back into contention for the domestic title as well as guiding them into the quarter finals of the Champions League. <br /><br />However, for Milan, their players and fans alike, Leonardo’s defection to Inter was seen as a major insult. Talking to Sky Italia about Leonardo, Milan goalkeeper Christian Abbiati was quoted saying "I think his passage to Inter has disappointed many Milan fans. Some of my team-mates were also hurt by the decision." <br /><br />This subplot to a game that already has so much riding upon it will only serve to intensify the emotionally charged atmosphere so typical of derby matches at the San Siro. <br /><br />Without Ibrahimovic, Milan will have to rely on the genius of Antonio Cassano and the speed and finishing of Pato to provide the goals. Inter will look to their star man Samuel Eto’o, as always. The Cameroonian has been in sparkling form of late scoring and creating goals in both Europe and in Italy. Goran Pandev and new signing Giampaolo Pazzini, who has been an instant hit for his new club, will also pose a real threat to Milan’s backline. <br /><br />This weekend’s Milan derby will see the league’s best defensive outfit take on the most prolific strike force. Though Milan have struggled to score goals this season, they boast the meanest defensive record having only conceded 22 goals. Inter, conversely, have scored 56 goals which is only matched by free scoring Udinese. <br /><br />Last season Inter won their 18th Scudetti, overtaking Milan who have only claimed seventeen. For Milan, the chance to break Inter’s domestic dominance, equal Inter’s record of Scudetti and win their first domestic league title since 2004 very much rests upon the outcome of this match. Add the passion that Leonardo’s presence on the Inter bench will invoke from a largely Milan crowd and the stage is set for one of the most memorable and fascinating Milan derby in years. <br /><br />
<div>You can read more from Frank Tigani on the pages of <a href="http://www.serieaweekly.com" target="_blank">SerieAWeekly.com</a> and <br /><br /><a href="http://twitter.com/Franky_T" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.serieaweekly.com/images/followmeontwitter.gif" border="0" alt="" width="160" height="27" /></a></div>
SerieAWeekly - Frank Tigani
2011-04-01T02:57:00Z
Arsenal still lack mental toughness
Guest Blogger
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Arsenal-still-lack-mental-toughness/-762830850863362919.html
2011-03-31T17:57:00Z
2011-03-31T17:57:00Z
<p style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">With Arsenal crashing out of the Champions League at the hands of a far superior Barcelona side this week, it's surely about time for the Gunners to stop doing all their talking off the pitch, and start doing it where it matters: on the pitch. </span></p>
<p style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;"> </span></p>
<p style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">Arsenal may have been rightly outraged by the intervention of match referee Massimo Busacca, who for some reason decided it was the right thing to do to send off star striker Robin van Persie after the frontman hit a strike towards goal after being flagged offside, but they were deservedly defeated by a Lionel Messi-inspired Barca side that now must surely be considered strong favourites to lift the Champions League trophy aloft come May and anyone looking to <strong><a title="Betting Tips" href="http://www.betfairfootball.com/" target="_blank">bet football</a></strong> money should remember this.</span></p>
<p style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;"> </span></p>
<p style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">With Bacary Sagna attempting to use the latest high-profile defeat for Arsenal within the space of just a couple of weeks to talk up the club's chances of some sort of success in the near future, perhaps the Gunners need to realise that, as much as they can talk the talk, they won't be able to walk the walk in the same style as the Spanish champions until they inject a level of confidence into their play on the pitch that is sorely lacking right now. Some people make <strong><a title="Arsenal Betting Tips" href="http://www.betfairfootball.com/premier-league/arsenal/" target="_blank">Arsenal betting tips</a></strong><strong> </strong>to claim the Premier League, but given the way they have capitulated in big games, huge doubts remain.</span></p>
<p style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;"> </span></p>
<p style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">Sagna may be right that "everyone [at the club] is still confident" of winning, but no amount of training or expounding upon the philosophy of attacking football will alter the fact that the Gunners have a severe lack of a winning mentality. With Bendtner's miss in the closing minutes of <span id="OBJ_PREFIX_DWT241" class="Object">last night</span>'s game yet another example of a lack of composure and quality at crucial moments, Arsene Wenger needs to ensure that his players start to prove their words of lofty ambition on the pitch, turning them into much needed silverware in the process.</span></p>
Guest Blogger
2011-03-31T17:57:00Z
Gunners still on for main target
Guest Blogger
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Gunners-still-on-for-main-target/-50057568532974955.html
2011-03-31T17:30:00Z
2011-03-31T17:30:00Z
<p><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">While Arsenal have seen their season all but crumble around them following their elimination from three competitions in the space of two weeks, the club are still in the hunt for their main target this season, the Premier League title. Despite dropping points last weekend, West Brom holding the Gunners to a 2-2 draw at the Hawthorns, Arsenal are still only five points behind Manchester United with a game in hand.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">After losing in the Carling Cup, Champions League and FA Cup in quick succession, the Premier League will be all or nothing for Arsene Wenger and his side, who are still looking to end their six year trophy drought. Striker Robin van Persie is confident that his side can use the pain from their recent cup defeats and use it to their advantage in the Premier League run-in.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">"It is a real blow that we threw away three trophies within the space of only three weeks. We still have another big objective and that is winning the Premier League title," he said.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">United are going through their own issues and Sir Alex is trying to plug all sorts of defensive leaks, following the injuries to Rio Ferdinand, Nemanja Vidic and the suspension of Jonny Evans. This topsy-turvy season may still have a couple more twists in it and Arsenal will need to take advantage should United slip up over the next few games. However, given their current form they may not attract too many <strong><a title="Premier League Betting" href="http://www.betfairfootball.com/premier-league/" target="_blank">Premier League bets</a></strong>.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">If Arsenal are going to pull the title out of the bag, then they are going to need van Persie fit and firing on all cylinders. The Dutchman has had another injury interrupted campaign, and the Gunners can ill-afford to have their main goal threat watching from the stands. There doesn't appear to be loads of goals throughout this Arsenal side at the moment and van Persie's presence in attack will be essential to their hopes and the <strong><a title="Arsenal Betting Tips" href="http://www.betfairfootball.com/premier-league/arsenal/" target="_blank">Arsenal betting tips</a></strong> reflect this.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">Nicklas Bendter has once again shown he isn't anywhere near as good as he thinks he is, and Marouane Chamakh has failed to build on his promising early season form. Van Persie's goals will have a major part to play if Arsenal are going to climb above United at the top of the table and regain their crown. </span></p>
Guest Blogger
2011-03-31T17:30:00Z
Top Flight Football Not Accepting of Gay Athletes
Guest Blogger Avi
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Top-Flight-Football-Not-Accepting-of-Gay-Athletes/-615316645530029643.html
2011-03-24T21:07:00Z
2011-03-24T21:07:00Z
<p><strong><em></em></strong>I was very happy to hear that Anton Hysen felt comfortable enough to come out. However, I think that it is very telling that the he is a player in the third tier of the Swedish league. We are at least 20 years away from an openly gay player at the top tier of football, and I will tell you why I think that. </p>
<p>First, let me say that I am a fan of Barcelona. Despite their constant refrain of <em>mes que un club</em>, I believe that any gay Barcelona player would not be supported. Despite Barcelona's somewhat sanctimonious image of being a socially responsible club, despite the fact that Spain has legalized same-sex marriage, and despite the fact that city of Barcelona itself is well known for being friendly towards gays and lesbians; Barcelona FC is a money-making corporation first, foremost, and always. This means that Barcelona has to advertise its brand to the entire world: including nations in the Middle East and Africa where homosexuality is a criminal or even a death penalty offense. If you need any proof, look no further than next year's shirt sponsors, the Qatar Foundation (imprisonment for up to 5 years). When money and principals meet, money always wins out. </p>
<p>As for the first question, whether there could be a gay player in a top tier league, once again, the answer is no. A gay player would need support from his club, and from the global football establishment. Look at the problems that UEFA and FIFA have combating racism (FIFA combating it with lip service, empty gestures and UEFA somewhat more successfully.) Now ask yourself if UEFA would force a club to play before an empty home stadium because the crowd chanted "faggot" or something to the like to a gay player--which is inevitability even if those same fans then go home to their gay sons and daughters. Look at the reaction of Sepp Blatter's blithe apathy to the concerns of gay and lesbian football fans about the World Cup being held in Qatar. Would Mohammed Bin Hammam (a Qatari) be any more caring? </p>
<p>Any gay player will always be tarred with being the gay player. Unless he comes out only after he achieves Pele/Maradona superstar status, being gay will be what he is known for, and every reflection of his play by the media will be tinged by his being gay. (Despite having perhaps a more liberal bent of reporters, the media as a whole cares about selling papers, and a gay player will sell.) </p>
<p>Finally, top players have a host of agents, managers, image consultants, and other--both for themselves and from their teams and sponsors--who will constantly tell them to stay in the closet. They will use scare tactics, and it would take a very brave young man constantly subjected to that negativity and fear to ignore that. </p>
<p>While we are seeing more athletes come out while they play, it is generally in minor niche sports, i.e. rugby, cricket, women's basketball, tennis (although no top man in tennis has ever come out as gay). High profile international team sports--football, baseball, basketball, ice hockey, and American football--are a completely different story. </p>
<p>Don't get me wrong; I will gladly support a gay player no matter what team he plays for or what country he plays in--even Real Madrid. But it is no accident that high profile gay athletes don't come out until after they retire--and then complain that their sport isn't ready for an openly gay player.</p>
<p><strong><em>One of the big topics on the show this week was Swedish footballer Anton Hysen openly admitting his homosexuality. We challenged you to send us your comments on the topic. We chose Avi, who emailed the show and opened our eyes to <a href="http://outsports.com/">outsports.com</a>, to feature in our Kick About.</em></strong></p>
<p><strong><em>Listener Avi has been a supporter of Barcelona after being amazed at the samba feet of Ronaldinho back in 2006. He felt inclined to email in on a subject he felt passionate about. If you have a passion about a current topic in the footballing community, would like it to be featured on our Kick About and can keep it to less than 500 words email: <a href="mailto:show@worldfootballdaily.com">show@worldfootballdaily.com</a> </em></strong></p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
Guest Blogger Avi
2011-03-24T21:07:00Z
Mancini's Catenaccio Failure
Mehdi
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Mancinis-Catenaccio-Failure/-472757871526546440.html
2011-03-22T16:30:00Z
2011-03-22T16:30:00Z
<em></em><br /> On Sunday Manchester City faced Chelsea in a title eliminator. Mancini lined up with 3 defensive midfielders (Barry, De Jong & Yaya Toure) and with Tevez unfit the much hyped but as yet to deliver Dzeko was deployed as the lone striker while village idiot Mario Balotelli watched from the bench. Trademark Mancini catenaccio with trademark results. Manchester City's defeat, hot on the heals of elimination from the Europa League at the hands of Dynamo Kiev, leaves them nervously looking over their shoulder at 5th placed Tottenham. Nevertheless experts and non experts alike will claim Mancini is on course to deliver this season's primary objective i.e. 4th place and Champions League football but despite what is said publicly, privately the clubs obscenely rich owners cannot be happy with the lack of progress Mancini has made during his 16 months in charge :<br /> <br />
<table class="style3" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0">
<colgroup><col width="45"></col> <col width="148"></col> <col width="29"></col> <col span="10" width="72"></col> </colgroup>
<tbody>
<tr class="style1">
<td class="style1"> </td>
<td class="style1" style="width: 148px;">Coach</td>
<td style="width: 29px;"> </td>
<td style="width: 72px;">P</td>
<td style="width: 72px;">W</td>
<td style="width: 72px;">D</td>
<td style="width: 72px;">L</td>
<td style="width: 72px;">F</td>
<td style="width: 72px;">A</td>
<td style="width: 72px;">PTS</td>
<td style="width: 72px;">PPG</td>
<td style="width: 72px;">GPG</td>
<td style="width: 72px;">GCPG</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><br /></td>
<td>Hughes 2009-2010</td>
<td><br /></td>
<td>17</td>
<td>7</td>
<td>8</td>
<td>2</td>
<td>33</td>
<td>27</td>
<td>29</td>
<td>1.71</td>
<td>1.94</td>
<td>1.59</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><br /></td>
<td>Mancini 2009-2010</td>
<td><br /></td>
<td>21</td>
<td>11</td>
<td>5</td>
<td>5</td>
<td>40</td>
<td>18</td>
<td>38</td>
<td>1.81</td>
<td>1.90</td>
<td>0.86</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><br /></td>
<td>Mancini 2010-2011</td>
<td><br /></td>
<td>30</td>
<td>15</td>
<td>8</td>
<td>7</td>
<td>45</td>
<td>27</td>
<td>53</td>
<td>1.77</td>
<td>1.50</td>
<td>0.90</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br /> PPG : Points Per Game<br /> GPG : Goals Per Game<br /> GCPG : Goals Conceded Per Game<br /><br /> When Mancini took over from Hughes City were in 6th place, 12 points behind leaders Chelsea with a game in hand. As it stands they are in 4th place and 10 points behind the leaders Manchester United. Despite having spent €198 million on transfers this season Manchester City have not made any significant progress. The club are averaging less points per game, conceding more goals per game and scoring considerably less than last season as the table shows. Mancini conforms to the worst stereotypes of Italian football, the defensive straightjacket a succession of coaches (Liedholm, Sacchi, Zeman, Zaccheroni, Ancelotti, Prandelli, Spalletti etc, etc) worked hard to destroy. Mancini's team are overly defensive catenaccio merchants who play miserly, destructive football, especially away from home where he adopts the "a draw is a good result" philosophy. Mancini may well take Manchester City into the Champions League, he may even win the FA Cup but if the club are to break the Manchester United / Chelsea duopoly and actually win a league title they need a more progressive coach. You cannot win the Premier League by playing catenaccio as the supposed tactical genius Rafael Benitez found to his cost.<br />
Mehdi
2011-03-22T16:30:00Z
Adam's Barclays Premier League Roundup
Adam Johnson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Adams-Barclays-Premier-League-Roundup/-393096506685189051.html
2011-03-22T04:38:00Z
2011-03-22T04:38:00Z
<p>Premier League Recap (March 19-20)</p>
<p>With and FA Cup weekend and international break flanking this week’s games, it wasn’t the greatest play in the world but there was still some notable results to tell you about. Here we go…</p>
<p><strong>Tottenham 0-0 West Ham</strong></p>
<p>Another poor result for Spurs in the league. West Ham seems to have their number this year and I had to agree with Ian Darke and Steve McManaman when they said it seemed like Tottenham was just ready for the Real Madrid tie. There won’t be a chance for a Real Madrid tie next year if they don’t pick it up in the league.</p>
<p><strong>Manchester United 1-0 Bolton</strong></p>
<p>With Alex Ferguson sitting in the directors box because of his five match ban, United did it again late in the match. The game was very even and Bolton really didn’t deserve to lose it. Something that was deserved was Jonny Evans’ red card for his overly aggressive challenge on American Stuart Holden. Matt Taylor came on in the second half and really should’ve scored the winner when he hit his free header right at Edwin van der Saar. The goal, of course, came after the sending off when Dimitar Berbatov poked home a rebound shot that Jussi Jaaskelainen should’ve held onto. It was a should’ve kind of day for Bolton.</p>
<p><strong>West Brom 2-2 Arsenal</strong></p>
<p>Arsenal just cannot get it right. Stephen Reid gave West Brom the lead in just the 3’ minute thanks to poor defending on a corner. It got worse for the Gunners as Aaron Ramsey missed an easy chance and then West Brom furthered their lead thanks to another terrible miscommunication between keeper and defense. Manuel Almunia inexplicably came way off his line to try and play the ball just as Sebastien Squillaci was trying to fend off Peter Odemwingie, the ball just bounced between them and the West Brom winger just went around the bumbling Arsenal players and rolled it home. Arsenal did do well to get a draw with goals from Arshavin (a stunner) and van Persie (a scrapper), but more questions have to be asked about this team.</p>
<p><strong>Stoke City 4-0 Newcastle</strong></p>
<p>Stoke dominated this battle of mid table teams with a first half goal from Jonathan Walters and second half strikes from Jermaine Pennant, Danny Higginbotham (rocket free kick), and Ricardo Fuller gave Stoke three more points.</p>
<p><strong>Aston Villa 0-1 Wolves</strong></p>
<p>Fresh off his England call up, Matt Jarvis scored what would end up being the winner. Ashley Young rattled the crossbar but that was about it on this disappointing day for Villa fans.</p>
<p><strong>Wigan 2–1 Birmingham</strong></p>
<p>Umm yes, this game did take place and yes Wigan won. Goals from Liam Ridgewell and Tom Cleverley saw the team’s level before Maynor Figueroa scored the winner. To be fair to Figueroa, it was a phenomenal shot.</p>
<p><strong>Everton 2-1 Fulham</strong></p>
<p>This Everton team is starting to become fun to watch as the potential is finally being reached. Seamus Coleman got them rolling with a perfectly directed header and Luis Saha doubled the lead when he scored on a low free kick. My favorite American, Clint Dempsey, scored on a left footed shot but the score would stay the same.</p>
<p><strong>Blackburn 2-2 Blackpool</strong></p>
<p>A tussle of B’s had Blackpool going ahead thanks to Luke Varney but then not going ahead thanks to an incredibly late offside flag. A penalty and justice would come Blackpool’s way later and Charlie Adam put it away for the lead. Adam then one-upped himself with a stunning free kick that was curled into the top right corner. Blackburn fought back, however, with goals from Samba and Hoilett to earn a draw.</p>
<p><strong>Sunderland 0-2 Liverpool</strong></p>
<p>This was a sneaky good matchup that Liverpool looked up for. The Reds took the lead thanks to a penalty converted by Dirk Kuyt. Andy Carroll and Luis Suarez were finally paired together and it was a sign of good things to come. Luis Suarez scored maybe the goal of the season in the second half when his shot was fired home from an impossible angle to the right of the goal. This was a good away win for Liverpool to bounce back from after their poor loss to West Ham last time out.</p>
<p><strong>Chelsea 2-0 Manchester City</strong></p>
<p>This was a big win for Chelsea as they exorcised the Man City demons that have haunted them recently. Manager, Carlo Ancelotti, opted to start Fernando Torres and leave Nic Anelka and Didier Drogba on the bench. It was again Chelsea’s other January signing, David Luiz, who stole the show with a great defensive display and the opening goal on a great header from a Drogba free kick. The Blues held on and even added a second goal from Ramires after his outstanding turn, run, then finish.</p>
<p>This weekend saw only one team score more than two goals (Stoke, oddly enough) and Chelsea move ahead of Man City and into third place. There were two different 2-2 draws and one of them may have crippled a title contender. Unfortunately, we now have an international break upon us so that’s it for the Premier League til April.</p>
<p><strong><br /></strong></p>
Adam Johnson
2011-03-22T04:38:00Z
Mehdi's Serie A Round 30 Recap
Mehdi
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Mehdis-Serie-A-Round-30-Recap/192114413190821959.html
2011-03-21T04:37:00Z
2011-03-21T04:37:00Z
<em><strong></strong></em><br /><br /><strong><br />FIORENTINA</strong> 2 (Mutu 21, Gamberini 34)<br /> <strong>ROMA</strong> 2 (Totti 27, Totti 52)<br /><br /> Riise dived in to tackle Mutu as he turned onto a Vargas pass and missed, Mutu sold Juan a dummy, took the ball onto his left foot then fired past the exposed Doni. Riise went over in the Fiorentina box to win a dubious penalty which Totti emphatically despatched to score his 200th Seriea A goal. An amazing achievement. Gamberini shot Fiorentina back into the lead after Roma failed to clear a corner. Luckless Fiorentina hit the woodwork twice before Totti equalised. Riise swung in cross from the left, Totti pulled the ball down then lashed it past Boruc. Fine finish.<br /><br /> <strong>Attendance</strong>: 23,634<br /> <strong>Assist</strong>: Vargas, Riise (won pen), n/a, Riise<br /><br /><br /> <strong>BARI</strong> 1 (Ghezzal 41 Pen)<br /> <strong>CHIEVO</strong> 2 (Pellissier 38, Moscardelli 49)<br /><br /> Bari made all the early running but the visitors took the lead. Pellissier was tackled 25 yards from goal, the ball ran for Fernandes who was also tackled, Codrea stood waiting for Rossi, who was nowhere near the ball, to come and clear, Pellissier took advantage of the confusion and ran through to score. Ghezzal converted a soft penalty before Codrea pissed away a point with another awful mistake. Almiron, standing near the penalty box, gave him a pass, he failed to control it, Moscardelli shrugged off his challenge, dribbled past Gilk and chipped the ball wide of Gillet.<br /><br /> <strong>Attendance</strong>: 15,000<br /> <strong>Red Card</strong>: Pioli 86 (Chievo)<br /> <strong>Assists</strong>: n/a, Bentivoglio (won pen), n/a<br /><br /><br /> <strong>BOLOGNA</strong> 1 (Di Vaio 28)<br /> <strong>GENOA</strong> 1 (Dainelli 43)<br /><br /> Genoa dominated the opening 28 minutes but they don't have Di Vaio. He used his left arm to control a crossfield pass, pushed away Criscito then slammed a half volley into the bottom left corner amid appeals for handball. Viviano made a stunning point blank save from a Dainelli header but was helpless as he followed up on the rebound.<br /><br /> With 40 points (less the 3 point deduction for financial irregularities) Bologna are safe and mad man Malesani's reputation restored.<br /><br /> <strong>Attendance</strong>: 19,149<br /> <strong>Assists</strong>: n/a, n/a<br /><br /><br /> <strong>INTER</strong> 1 (Pazzini 52)<br /> <strong>LECCE</strong> 0<br /><br /> <strong>Attendance</strong>: 52,000<br /> <strong>Assist</strong>: Pandev<br /><br /><br /> <strong>JUVENTUS </strong>2 (Krasic 23, Del Piero 68)<br /> <strong>BRESCIA </strong>1 (Eder 42)<br /><br /> Matri flicked on a loose ball to Krasic, the Serb took a couple of steps forward before thumping a volley inside the right post, fantastic goal. Another Buffon mistake handed Brescia the equaliser. He was miles off his line as Vass swung a cross into the box and midget Eder headed past him. Del Piero scored a superb winning goal. Turning on a pass on the centre circle he ran forward, dribbled inside a defender then opened up his body and whipped the ball past Arcari. Mareco was sent off for body checking Matri. Juve should have scored four but Del Neri will be encouraged by this performance.<br /><br /> <strong>Attendance</strong>: 19,162<br /> <strong>Red Card</strong>: Mareco 71 (Brescia)<br /> <strong>Assists</strong>: Matri, Vass, Marchisio<br /><br /><br /> <strong>SAMPDORIA</strong> 0<br /> <strong>PARMA </strong>1 (Zaccardo 65)<br /><br /> <strong>Attendance</strong>: 21,895<br /> <strong>Red Card</strong>: Dzemaili 92 (Parma)<br /> <strong>Assist</strong>: Gobbi<br /><br /><br /><strong> UDINESE</strong> 2 (Inler 22, Di Natale 74 Pen)<br /> <strong>CATANIA</strong> 0<br /><br /> Udinese first goal came from an unlikely source and it was a tremendous strike, Spoli headed out a deflected cross and Inler ran forward and connected with a stunning left foot volley which bounced into the bottom corner. Marchesco shoved over Sanchez to concede the penalty.<br /><br /> <strong>Attendance</strong>: 16,000<br /> <strong>Assists</strong>: n/a, Sanchez (won pen)<br /><br /><br /> <strong>NAPOLI</strong> 2 (Cavani 49 Pen, Cavani 61)<br /> <strong>CAGLIARI</strong> 1 (Acquafresca 56)<br /><br /> Lavezzi took a delayed dive after a defender pulled his arm as he ran into the box. Hamsik smashed a Lavezzi centre against Conti and Agazzi made a superb save to deny Yebda on the rebound. Acquafresca turned the painfully slow Cannavaro to chase down his own flick on and nutmeg De Sanctis in the Napoli goal. Five minutes later Hamsik juggled a cross off his chest before volleying a pass over the Cagliari defence and as Agazzi came off his line Cavani dropped a lob over his head and into the net. Another brilliant goal from Serie A's most complete striker.<br /><br /><strong> Attendance</strong>: 50,000<br /> <strong>Assists</strong>: Lavezzi (won pen), n/a, Hamsik<br /><br /><br /> <em><strong>19 March 2011</strong></em><br /><br /> <strong>LAZIO</strong> 1 (Zarate 2)<br /> <strong>CESENA</strong> 0<br /><br /> <strong>Attendance</strong>: 15,000<br /> <strong>Assist</strong>: Mauri<br /><br /><br /> <strong>PALERMO</strong> 1 (Goian 10)<br /> <strong>MILAN</strong> 0<br /><br /> <strong>Attendance</strong>: 25,116<br /> <strong>Assist</strong>: Migliaccio
Mehdi
2011-03-21T04:37:00Z
Move over Ibrahimovic - Pato Is Milan's Big Game Bottler
Mehdi
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Move-over-Ibrahimovic---Pato-Is-Milans-Big-Game-Bottler/-433172014939108897.html
2011-03-20T22:38:00Z
2011-03-20T22:38:00Z
<strong></strong><br /><br /> In October 2010 following Milan's 1-2 loss to Juventus I wrote :<br /><br /><em>Pato was useless. Despite his talent he is a massively flawed footballer. He over-dribbles, his first touch is shocking at times, his crossing poor etc, etc. In his three years at Milan he hasn't improved. He's yet to hit 20 league goals, he hasn't got close. He has less spots and a less ridiculous haircut and that's about it. He's had a good start to this campaign but where was he today? Where was he against Real Madrid? Other than giving away the ball for the second goal. And last week against Napoli?</em><br /><br />Pato has scored 11 goals in 19 games league games this season. On the surface a very respectable goal ratio but in those 19 games the Brazilian has only hit the winning goal on two occasions, against Bari and Chievo and in his other 17 games he has failed to rescue Milan from a losing position i.e. scored an equalising goal. Berlusconi has been critical of Pato's inability to stay fit, suggesting he may be sold at the end of the season, despite his romance with Silvio's smoking hot daughter, Barbara. In the era of financial fair play it makes sense to cash in on a talented but selfish player and use the funds to make the loan moves of Ibrahimovic and Boateng permanent and address the deficiencies in the make-up of a squad top heavy in defensive midfielders and weak in all other areas.<br /><br /><em>For more of Mehdi's work, check out:</em><br /> <a href="http://soccer-europe.com/" target="_blank">http://soccer-europe.com</a> <em><br />Follow Mehdi on Twitter:</em><br /><a title="http://twitter.com/calcioeurope" href="http://twitter.com/calcioeurope" target="_blank">http://twitter.com/calcioeurope</a>
Mehdi
2011-03-20T22:38:00Z
United hit by Rio blow
Guest Blogger
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/United-hit-by-Rio-blow/-243123472217211267.html
2011-03-17T14:44:00Z
2011-03-17T14:44:00Z
Guest Blogger<br /><br />
<p><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">Sir Alex Ferguson's hopes of pulling off a second stunning treble have been hit by a massive blow, with the news that Rio Ferdinand could miss the rest of the season with his ongoing calf problems. The centre-back has been struggling with various injuries over the past couple of seasons, and has been sidelined with this calf injury since the defeat to Wolves in early February. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">Rio's continued fitness troubles have resulted in his role as England captain coming under question from Fabio Capello. The England manager has this week come out making it clear England need a captain that can represent his country on a regular basis, something Ferdinand just can't promise at the moment. A more pressing concern though will be what affect Ferdinand's absence will have on United's end of season trophy drive. You can <a title="Ladbrokes" href="http://www.ladbrokes.com/home/en" target="_blank"><strong>bet</strong></a> it will have a massive impact.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">Ferguson admitted he was unsure as to when Ferdinand would be available again but made it clear the signs weren't overly promising.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">"We are not looking at this as a short-term situation. He has not started training yet. We will be lucky to get him back for some part of the season," he said.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">While Sir Alex will want to talk down the negative impact Ferdinand's absence will have on his side's bid to win the title, <a title="FA Cup and Champions League" href="http://www.thefa.com/" target="_blank"><strong>FA Cup and Champions League</strong></a>, but the fact is that without the experienced centre-back in the side, this team does look a little iffy at the back. It's been made even worse with the fact that Ferdinand's defensive partner Nemanja Vidic has also been having his own fitness issues over the past few weeks. The manager will have to use all his experience to make sure he can fill the gaps with the players that are available to him.</span></p>
Guest Blogger
2011-03-17T14:44:00Z
Mehdi's ECL Recap Last 16 Day 8
Mehdi
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Mehdis-ECL--Recap-Last-16-Day-8/817363439427264502.html
2011-03-17T02:36:00Z
2011-03-17T02:36:00Z
<em><strong>16 March 2011</strong></em><br /> <br /> <strong>CHELSEA</strong> 0<br /> <strong>COPENHAGEN</strong> 0<br /> <br /> <em>Chelsea win 2-0 on aggregate</em><br /> <br /> Highlights? The full time whistle.<br /> <br /> Attendance : 36,454<br /> Assists : n/a<br /> <br /> <br /> <strong>REAL MADRID</strong> 3 (Marcelo 37, Benzema 66, Di Maria 76)<br /> <strong>LYON</strong> 0<br /> <br /> After a nervous start Real improved as the half wore on, keeping Lloris busy in the Lyon goal. Ronaldo executed an instant drag back and pass, playing it between two defenders to the onrushing Marcelo, he flicked the ball past Cris and with a sharp turn back onto his left foot sent Lovren crashing to the turf then shot straight at Loris who should have saved. Lloris made a fantastic one handed stop to deny Benzema at the end of the first half. Marcelo hit a longball up the left flank, in blocking Ozil Lovren inadvertently helped the ball on and Benzema left Cris for dead before nutmegging Lloris. The Lyon defence failed to deal with another longball, Ozil headed on and Di Maria ran through before lobbing over Lloris to well and truly exercise his teams last 16 ghost.<br /> <br /> Real Madrid win 4-1 on aggregate<br /> <br /> <strong>Attendance</strong>: 76,489<br /> <strong>Assists</strong>: Ronaldo, n/a, Ozil<br /><br /><em>For more of Mehdi's work, check out:</em><br /> <a href="http://soccer-europe.com/" target="_blank">http://soccer-europe.com</a> <em><br />Follow Mehdi on Twitter:</em><br /><a title="http://twitter.com/calcioeurope" href="http://twitter.com/calcioeurope" target="_blank">http://twitter.com/calcioeurope</a>
Mehdi
2011-03-17T02:36:00Z
Mehdi's ECL Recap Last 16 Day 7
Mehdi
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Mehdis-ECL--Recap-Last-16-Day-7/663714594259999048.html
2011-03-16T01:40:00Z
2011-03-16T01:40:00Z
<em><strong>15 March 2011</strong></em><br /> <br /> <strong>MANCHESTER UNITED</strong> 2 (Hernandez 5, Hernandez 75)<br /> <strong>MARSEILLE</strong> 1 (Brown 82 og)<br /> <br /> Rooney turned on a Giggs centre and Hernandez lost the dreadful Heinze to tap in unmarked at the back post. Gignac blew a chance to score a quick equaliser, horribly volleying over and Diawara failed to punish appaling marking, heading Taiwo's cross wide of the left post. Remy was next to miss, again blowing a volley following a mistake by Smalling. A minute after Cheyrou missed another chance United doubled their lead. Giggs ran onto Valencia's disguised pass and centred for Hernandez to score a carbon copy of his first goal. Brown helped out Marseille by putting away one of the chances they created but a toothless Marseille couldn't find a second goal to send out this injury ravaged United side.<br /> <br /> United look as poor in Europe as they have domestically. Taggart better hope for an easy draw i.e. Schalke or Spurs and the return to fitness of Vidic or Ferdinand.<br /> <br /> <em>Manchester United win 2-1 on aggregate.</em><br /> <br /> <strong>Attendance</strong>: 73,996<br /> <strong>Assists</strong>: Rooney, Giggs, n/a<br /> <br /> <br /> <strong>BAYERN MUNICH</strong> 2 (Gomez 21, Muller 31)<br /> <strong>INTER</strong> 3 (Eto'o 4, Sneijder 63, Pandev 88)<br /> <br /> Bayern's lame Dutch coach made a series of tactical blunders. The first was starting with Breno and Van Buyten in defence despite the great job done by Tymoschuk and Badstuber in the first leg. Right on queue Van Buyten lost his position when advancing to tackle Stankovic 35 yards from goal, Stankovic passed to Pandev and Eto'o ran between Pranjic and Breno onto the Macedonian's though ball and shot into the bottom corner. The mistakes continued. At the other end Julio Cesar forgot to catch the ball as Robben took aim with a typically explosive shot, Gomez hooked the rebound over his head as Julio Cesar helplessly watched it sail into an empty net. Nevertheless it was a great finish. Motta inadvertently touched a Robben pass onto Muller and he recovered from a heavy first touch to lob over Julio Cesar. A mistake by Ranocchia put Ribery one on one against Julio Cesar but the big game bottler, I can't remember the last time he did anything of note, took too long to pull the trigger and Julio Cesar managed to block. The Brazilian goalkeeper, who has looked a shadow of himself since picking up a back injury towards the end of last season, ran off his line for a Ribery cross but missed, Gomez got the feintest of touches, the ball rolled across goal and as Muller jumped in with a sliding tackle, Ranocchia kicked the ball against him and it rebouned off the left post. Ranocchia, who was having a nightmare, gave Robben a hospital pass in the box but the brittle wing wizard misscued horribly. Muller caught Lucio dribbling inside his box, Ribery ran away with the ball, played a lazy centre which took a double deflection before bouncing kindkly back to him and Cambiasso threw himself at the goalbound shot. Bayern should have been four goals to the good at half time.<br /> <br /> On the hour mark Julio Cesar finally produced a spectaculr save to match Gomez' equally spectacualr volley. Coutinho, on for the ineffective Stankovic, played a pass to Eto'o on the right of the penalty box and he touched the ball back for the onrushing Sneidjer to fire past Kraft. With the scores tied 2-2 on the night and Bayern leading 3-2 on aggregate Van Gaal substituted Robben for Altintop. Now it was one way traffic. Pandev chested down a Sneijder cross and turned his marker but blazed his volley high over. Sneidjer was off target minutes later then saw his goalbound shot bounce to safety off Pandev. Eto'o battled Breno for a longball, wriggled free of the defender, ran across the box trying to work an angle for a shot before passing square to the onrushing Pandev and this time he managed to keep his shot down, but only just, as it tore into the roof of the net.<br /> <br /> Inter had 3 shots on target to Bayern's 9. If Bayern hadn't already announced Van Gaal would be leaving at the end of the season this would have been a sackable offence.<br /> <br /> <em>3-3 on aggregate, Inter win on away goals.</em><br /> <br /> <strong>Attendance</strong>: 69,000<br /> <strong>Assists</strong>: Pandev, n/a, n/a, Eto'o, Eto'o<br /><br /><em>For more of Mehdi's work, check out:</em><br /> <a href="http://soccer-europe.com/" target="_blank">http://soccer-europe.com</a> <em><br />Follow Mehdi on Twitter:</em><br /><a title="http://twitter.com/calcioeurope" href="http://twitter.com/calcioeurope" target="_blank">http://twitter.com/calcioeurope</a>
Mehdi
2011-03-16T01:40:00Z
Josh's Bundesliga Recap - Matchday 26
Josh Morris
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Joshs-Bundesliga-Recap---Matchday-26/-531879220097947080.html
2011-03-14T05:58:00Z
2011-03-14T05:58:00Z
<p><em><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Bundesliga Matchday 26</strong></span></em></p>
<p> <br /><strong>FC Bayern München v. Hamburger SV 6:0 (1:0)</strong></p>
<p><strong>Goal Scorers: FCB – Robben 40’, 47’, 55’, Ribéry 64’, Müller 79’, Westermann 85’ (OG)</strong></p>
<p>Allianz Arena – 69,000</p>
<p>Instead of the traditional “New Manager Bounce,” it seems that FCB are now experiencing the “Lame Duck Bounce” with Louis Van Gaal announcing that he will not be returning to Bayern at the end of the season. This managerial merry-go-round continued after the 90 minutes at the Allianz with HSV manager, Armin Veh, relieved of his managerial duties. On the field, Robben only played 70 minutes – and got a hat trick within 15 minutes around each side of the halftime whistle. Robben’s first goal was a selfish bit of skill. The better option would have been to pass, but since when does that happen? His second goal was pretty lucky – to be honest. A free kick that was intended to be a cross actually went in as Rost (HSV keeper) failed to come out, but it was still a thing of beauty. His third was from a counter attack and a through ball from Ribéry. Speaking of the Frenchman, his goal was outstanding. His celebration was ridiculous – why take your shirt off only to reveal that you are wearing a sleeveless white top? Doesn’t incite any crowd I know of… well worth a yellow!!</p>
<p>Bayern dominated the game and almost doubled HSV in terms of shots on target (17 to 10). Bayern warmed up for the Inter match in midweek by completing 88% of their passing. HSV had no alternative but to chase and hope to catch Bayern on the break – but to no avail.</p>
<p><br /><strong>1899 Hoffenheim v. Borussia Dortmund 1:0 (0:0)</strong></p>
<p><strong>Goal Scorers: Hoffenheim – Ibisevic 63’</strong></p>
<p>Rein Neckar Arena – 30,150</p>
<p>The startling thing about this match was not just that Dortmund lost, but that they could/should have lost by more. Dortmund played flat throughout the match, but could have equalized in 90+4, but Hoffenheim keeper, Starke, saved Barrios’ chance. Nuri Sahin continues to do whatever he can to help his club – on the day he went 46/59 pass completion helping to contribute to Dortmund’s 16 shots. This match, however, was about Hoffenheim. It is good to see Ibisevic back on some form. A hat trick was a realistic opportunity for him in front of the home crowd, but he will have to settle for one.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>1. FSV Mainz 05 v. Bayer 04 Leverkusen 0:1 (0:0)</strong></p>
<p><strong>Goal Scorers: Bayer – Augusto 82’</strong></p>
<p>Stadion am Bruchweg – 20,300</p>
<p>This was the match of the weekend – don’t tell anyone in Bavaria. Although the score line was only 1-0 this match was played at a blistering pace. Neither team truly imposed themselves (50% possession shows that), and a 0-0 or a 1-1 would have been fair. Mainz striker (until he joins Leverkusen in the summer), Schürrle, was outstanding. He had the normally solid Leverkusen defense at six’s and seven’s. The play from Sidney Sam was pretty shocking; this came as a huge surprise, and he was subbed off at halftime because of it. Leverkusen pounced on a horrible defensive mistake to slot in the game’s only goal near the death.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>FC Schalke 04 v. Eintracht Frankfurt 2:1 (1:0)</strong></p>
<p><strong>Goal Scorers: Schalke – Jurado 45’ (PK), Charisteas 84’; Eintracht – Tzavellas 70’</strong></p>
<p>Veltins Arena – 61,000</p>
<p>What a weird weekend in the Bundesliga – Dortmund fail to win on the road, Schalke won a Bundesliga match after winning a midweek match, and Frankfurt scored a goal in 2011 (after over 800 minutes of football)! The truth is, however, Schalke looked composed in this match, although it took a spark from Raul to get Schalke going before the first half whistle. He snuck in behind the Eintracht keeper and nicked the ball away, which led to a penalty. After Frankfurt leveled it, Angelos Charisteas scored with his first touch to seal the points for the Royal Blues. Frankfurt are now hovering three points above the drop.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>1. FC Kaiserslautern v. SC Freiburg 2:1 (1:1)</strong></p>
<p><strong>Goal Scorers: Kaiserslautern – Nemec 34’, Hoffer 90’; Freiburg – Nemec 21’ (OG)</strong></p>
<p>Fritz Walter Stadion – 41,015</p>
<p>Kaiserslautern was unlucky to go into halftime level on 1:1. In truth, Kaiserslautern set the pace for most of this match. After Nemec’s own goal he corrected his blushes by scoring before half time from a cross. The typical threat for Freiburg – Papiss Demba Cisse – almost put the visitors ahead and probably should have. Freiburg play an intelligent and attacking brand of football. This win will mean more to K-town as it gives them breathing room above the drop, but Freiburg’s aspirations of Europe take another hit.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>FC St. Pauli v. VfB Stuttgart 1:2 (1:1)</strong></p>
<p><strong>Goal Scorers: St. Pauli – Boll 19’; VfB – Kuzmanovic 24’, Schippiock 88’</strong></p>
<p>Millerntor Stadion – 24,487</p>
<p>To say that this result flattered VfB is an understatement. The story of this game was St. Pauli (<em>Kiezkicker</em>) ruing their missed opportunities. VfB came out and sat back, allowing St. Pauli to press higher and higher and Charles Takyi (St. Pauli) could have been through the Swabians’ defense after 14 minutes, but was flagged for offside. St. Pauli would get their goal through Boll (first St. Pauli player to score against VfB in the Bundesliga). VfB’s goal slid through a crowd of onlookers (sort of how Stuttgart escaped the relegation zone this week for the first time since mid-November). After the interval, the Swabians continued to sit back and allow St. Pauli to press, but misplaced passes and shots awry left this match level until “super sub" Schippiock netted the winner after 88 minutes. VfB now find themselves in 13<sup>th</sup>, while St. Pauli dropped to the relegation playoff.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>SV Werder Bremen v. Borussia Mönchengladbach 1:1 (1:0)</strong></p>
<p><strong>Goal Scorers: Bremen – Wagner 39’; Gladbach – Dante 90’</strong></p>
<p>Weserstadion – 40,500</p>
<p>Bremen may look back on this match in disbelief. That fighting spirit they showed a couple of matchdays ago against Leverkusen was not on display this week. Bremen are not only a point away from danger (albeit they are in 12<sup>th</sup>, but such is the competition in the Bundesliga this season), this could have been Bremen’s first win in seven league matches, but as the match inched closer to 90’ 1-0 was never a safe score line. The draw keeps Gladbach cemented to the basement five points away from sunlight. Bremen dominated this match from the opening whistle. As the match neared the end, Gladbach could have easily won – numerous chances from Reus and Stranzl went wide. Dante’s stoppage time equalizer came from a header.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>VfL Wolfsburg v. 1. FC Nürnberg 1:2 (1:1)</strong></p>
<p><strong>Goal Scorers: VfL – Mandzukic 22’; Nürnberg – Wollscheid 45’, Nilsson 90’</strong></p>
<p>Volkswagen Arena – 27, 316</p>
<p>Der Club (Nürnberg) is inching closer and closer to a European place. This is a huge accomplishment for the <em>other </em>team from Bavaria. They are the team of 2011, I thought St. Pauli would be but they are turning into Blackpool. VfL played well and should have been up already when they scored their first. Mbokani should have scored but failed to head it past Schäfer while completely unmarked. After the Wolves scored this seemed to kick the Bavarians into life, not Wolfsburg. The only player, besides Nuri Sahin, that I continually write about is Der Club’s Mehmet Ekici. His free kick and corner led to both goals for Nürnberg who now find themselves one point off Europe and winning 6/7.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>1. FC Köln v. Hannover 96 4:0 (1:0)</strong></p>
<p><strong>Goal Scorers: Köln – Petit 36’, Podolski 60’, Novakovic 79’, 89’</strong></p>
<p>Rheinenergie Stadion – 46,500</p>
<p>Friday Night Lights in the Bundesliga – and what a match to kickoff Matchday 26! This was the Billy Goats sixth home win in a row, their best in 24 years. Hannover will want to put this match behind them and relax knowing they are still in third two points ahead of Bayern. Billy Goat’s keeper, Michael Rensing, kept Köln in this game from early on. In form Rausch will wonder how Rensing saved his attempt. Hannover controlled the middle of the park and really sought to make a name for themselves, but then Köln began the onslaught. I know it says 4-0, but Hannover will travel north wondering how such a one-sided match (in terms of statistics) could end so lopsided.</p>
<p><strong><em><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><br /></span></em></strong></p>
Josh Morris
2011-03-14T05:58:00Z
Adam's English FA Cup Roundup
Adam Johnson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Adams-English-FA-Cup-Roundup/-727805121167768566.html
2011-03-14T05:40:00Z
2011-03-14T05:40:00Z
<p><strong>FA Cup 6<sup>th</sup> Round Review</strong></p>
<p>Of course, there were only eight teams remaining in the FA Cup coming into Saturday’s matches and after this weekend’s action that number now sits at four. There were two cracking games and two fairly dull ones so here is what happened.</p>
<p><strong>Birmingham 2-3 Bolton</strong></p>
<p>Bolton continued their stretch of great games with a thriller at St. Andrews in Birmingham. Johan Elmander got the start over Danny Sturridge because Sturridge has already played with Chelsea in the Cup. Not only did Elmander got the start but also the opening goal in this one in the 21’ minute. Birmingham got the leveler through Cameron Jerome to make the halftime score 1-1. The score would remain that way until Kevin Davies was brought down in the box and then converted from the penalty spot to give Bolton the lead. It would again evaporate, however, when Kevin Phillips scored from the edge of the box on a falling down strike that was out of the keeper’s reach with ten minutes to play. Chung-Yong Lee had come on for Ivan Klasnic earlier in the second half and it would prove to be a master stroke by Owen Coyle as Lee headed home the winner in the 90’ minute to put Bolton in the semi-finals.</p>
<p><strong>Manchester United 2-0 Arsenal</strong></p>
<p>Two weeks ago Arsenal were still in all four competitions that they started in and after this loss they are only in one. They had the look of a team that had had some losses in the past few games, a team that didn’t totally believe anymore. United started Chicharito over Dimitar Berbatov again and the Da Silva twins, Fabio and Rafael, were playing as virtual wingers. The home side took the lead on a Fabio goal in the 28’ minute after a great build up including the two strikers. Wayne Rooney was dropping deep into the midfield to retrieve the ball all afternoon and was rewarded for his work rate when he scored on a header from a tight angle to double United’s lead early in the second half. It would stay that way the rest of the match and Arsenal couldn’t wait to get out of there. The Gunners did outshoot the Red Devils in the match but many of them came from outside the box after a string of passes that couldn’t break through. Also, Johan Djorou was injured to add insult to injury and he may be out for the season. I still believe Arsenal can win the Premier League title but it will take a very strong mental effort to do so.</p>
<p> <strong>Stoke City 2-1 West Ham</strong></p>
<p>The early game on Sunday saw two more Premier League clubs meet in what would turn out to be a pretty open game. Both teams looked hungry early but it was, what else, but a Rory Delap long thrown in that Robert Huth connected on to give Stoke the lead, typical. West Ham would fight back and Scotty Parker led a feisty bunch of Hammers who got into it with the Stoke backline a time or two. The pressure would pay off as Frederic Piquionne scored on the half hour mark. Early in the second half Stoke were given a soft penalty but Matthew Etherington’s attempt was saved by Robert Green. Stoke started to look the more likely to score and they were given a free kick from about 30 yards out that was blocked by Carlton Cole, but unfortunately for West Ham, it was with his hand. The ball was moved up to just outside the box and Danny Higginbotham’s low free kick was too close for Green to handle and Stoke had the lead. With rugged defending and long clearances, Stoke hung on to said lead to earn a place in the FA Cup semi-finals.</p>
<p><strong>Manchester City 1-0 Reading</strong></p>
<p>In what was probably the dullest of the four weekend matches, Man City did the job and advanced to the last four of the competition. It wasn’t pretty in the first half and Reading did a decent job defending but City’s finishing was poor. They started to look better in the second half, however, and the goal finally came, oddly enough, through Micah Richards. It was a great header to be fair to the defender and it came from a David Silva corner in the 74’ minute. City held on for a 1-0 win and avoided a dreaded replay, which I’m sure they would not want with Chelsea coming up in the league next week.</p>
<p>So the English version of the Final Four is set and it is Manchester United v. Manchester City and Bolton v. Stoke City. The two matches will be played at Wembley next month.</p>
<p><strong><em><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><br /></span></em></strong></p>
Adam Johnson
2011-03-14T05:40:00Z
Mehdi's Serie A Round 29 Recap
Mehdi
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Mehdis-Serie-A-Round-29-Recap/-439173653617717348.html
2011-03-14T05:38:00Z
2011-03-14T05:38:00Z
<em><strong>13 March 2011</strong></em><br /><br /> <strong>MILAN</strong> 1 (Cassano 82)<br /> <strong>BARI </strong>1 (Rudolf 39)<br /> <br /> A clever free kick gave rock bottom Bari and their newish coach, Bortolo Mutti, the lead. Almiron played a pass into the space between the two walls, Rudolf broke, turned and angled a shot past Abbiati. Ibrahimovic was penalised for the umpteenth time for climbing over his marker, as the ref blew the giant Swede slapped Rossi in the ribs earning a red card that rules him out of the derby. Almiron should have doubled Bari's lead on the counter before Bari old boy Cassano equalised, gently volleying Antonini's cross between Gillet and a defender.<br /><br /> Ibrahimovic's trademark second half of the season slump continues. He's been complaining about being tired since DECEMBER. Now he gets a few weeks rest. As for the derby a lot rests on Pato's shoulder. It's high time he delivered for Milan in a big match.<br /> <br /> <strong>Attendance</strong>:<br /> <strong>Red Card</strong>: Ibrahimovic 73 (Milan)<br /> <strong>Assists</strong>: Almiron, Antonini<br /> <br /> <br /> <strong>CAGLIARI</strong> 0<br /> <strong>UDINESE</strong> 4 (Benatia 42, Sanchez 44, Di Natale 48, Di Natale 54)<br /><br /> Benatia headed in the crucial first goal from a corner. I say crucial because once Udinese are in the lead they can then lay waste to teams on the break which is exactly what happened two minutes later. Pinzi won possession on the edge of his box and passed to Sanchez, he ran from the centre circle, dropped a defender with a series of stepovers 25 yards from goal, ran right, skipped past the 'keeper and tapped into an empty net with the commentator screaming "Goal ala Maradona" and it was. Ragatzu met a Lazzari cross with an amazing mid-air dropkick/volley but Handanovic saved. Agazzi punched a deflected Di Natale shot into his own net. Two defenders backed off as Di Natale approached the edge of the box, he quickly switched the ball from his left to his right and played in Sanchez on the overlap, the Chilean centred and Di Natale tapped into an empty net. They make it look so easy.<br /> <br /> With Lazio faltering since December, barring injury Udinese will play in the Champions League next season. Finishing 3rd or even 2nd isn't beyond them.<br /> <br /> <strong>Attendance</strong>: 10,000<br /> <strong>Assists</strong>: Di Natale (ck), Pinzi, n/a, Sanchez<br /> <br /> <br /> <strong>CATANIA</strong> 1 (Llama 75)<br /> <strong>SAMPDORIA</strong> 0<br /> <br /> <strong>Attendance</strong>: 10,000 <br /> <strong>Red Card</strong>: Tissone 23 (Sampdoria)<br /> <strong>Assist</strong>: Lodi (ck)<br /> <br /> <br /> <strong>CHIEVO</strong> 0<br /> <strong>FIORENTINA</strong> 1 (Vargas 48 fk)<br /> <br /> <strong>Attendance</strong>: 10,036<br /> <strong>Assist</strong>: Behrami (won fk)<br /> <br /> <br /> <strong>GENOA</strong> 1 (Floro Flores 77)<br /> <strong>PALERMO</strong> 0<br /> <br /> <strong>Attendance</strong>: 22,000<br /> <strong>Assist</strong>: n/a<br /> <br /> <br /><strong> LECCE</strong> 0<br /> <strong>BOLOGNA</strong> 1 (Ramirez 33)<br /> <br /><strong> Attendance</strong>: 7,000<br /> <strong>Assists</strong>: n/a<br /> <br /> <br /> <strong>ROMA </strong>2 (Totti 70, Totti 93)<br /> <strong>LAZIO</strong> 0<br /> <br /> Matuzalem should have been sent off for raking his studs down Totti's face in an incident missed by the ref but not by the camera. Pizarro touched a free kick to Totti and his fearsome low drive clipped off Muslera as he dived under the ball. As Totti and Simplicio stood over a free kick a yard in front of a linesman, Radu ran over and did a Gattuso on Simplicio who to his credit didn't go to ground. Red card. Simplicio was sandwiched by two Lazio defenders in the box as he tried to meet a Taddei centre. Totti converted the penalty to score his 199th career goal.<br /> <br /> <strong>Attendance</strong>: 48,955<br /> <strong>Red Cards</strong>: Radu 87 (Lazio), Ledesma 91 (Lazio)<br /> <strong>Assists</strong>: Pizarro (fk), Simplicio (won pen)<br /> <br /> <br /><strong> PARMA</strong> 1 (Palladino 29)<br /> <strong>NAPOLI</strong> 3 (Hamsik 52, Lavezzi 57, Maggio 87)<br /> <br /> Palladino gave Parma the lead with a fantastic goal. The Napoli defence failed to clear a corner and the Napoli born winger ran across goal and caught the ball on the drop, his volley arrowed inside the right post. Napoli have sorely missed the creative spark provided by Lavezzi in recent weeks. The Argentinean turned on the afterburners and went past Galloppa as if he wasn't there before centring, Hamsik got a touch to take the ball past Mirante. Napoli's second also came down Parma's left, Lavezzi passed infield to Hamsik 40 yards from goal, no one tracked his run onto the Slovakian's return pass and he angled a shot into the bottom left corner. Galloppa was sent off for a late studs up challenge for a high ball, Hamsik saw it coming and turned away, taking a boot to his left arm. Valiani's awful clearance gifted Napoli the third, he kicked the ball against Gargano and Maggio was first to the rebound.<br /> <br /> <strong>Attendance</strong>: 16,273<br /> R<strong>ed Card</strong>: Galloppa 60 (Parma)<br /> <strong>Assis</strong>ts: n/a, Lavezzi, Hamsik, Gargano<br /> <br /> <br /> <em><strong>12 March 2011</strong></em><br /> <br /> <strong>CESENA</strong> 2 (Jimenez 41 Pen, Parolo 80)<br /> <strong>JUVENTUS</strong> 2 (Matri 19, Matri 35)<br /> <br /> This was one of THE games of the season. A fantastic Del Piero lead counter attack gave Bianconeri the lead. Del Piero burst from the half way line, Matri angled his run brilliantly between three defenders and as he turned goalside shot first time past Antonioli. We then witnessed one of the all time worst misses. A ball over the top sent the jet healed Giaccherini clear of the Juve defence, Buffon came off his line, like a bad caricature of former Juve great Peruzzi, Giaccherini's shot bounced off the inside of the right post, Giaccherini tracked it as it rolled to the opposite corner and about a metre from the line he shanked his shot towards the corner flag. Matri rode a bounce before lobbing a pass to the unmarked Del Piero, his volley thundered off a post and Matri headed the rebound into an empty net. Buffon again couldn't resist advancing off his line as Parolo bore down on goal, Parolo checked inside, Buffon tripped him and escaped a second red card in four weeks as Traore was the covering defender. As flares rained down on the pitch Jimenez kept his composure to convert the penalty and spare Giaccherini's blushes. Motta was sent off for kicking Giaccherini in the face when challenging for a high ball. Buffon made fantastic saves from Colucci and Jimenez. Juve had penalty appeals turned down, Buffon made another great save from a deflected shot but was finally beaten when Parolo fired home a loose ball.<br /> <br /> <strong>Attendance</strong>: 21,932<br /> <strong>Red Card</strong>: Motta 43 (Juventus)<br /> <strong>Assists</strong>: Del Piero, n/a, Parolo (won pen), n/a<br /> <br /> <em><strong>11 March 2011</strong></em><br /> <br /> <strong>BRESCIA</strong> 1 (Caracciolo 85)<br /> <strong>INTER</strong> 1 (Eto'o 18)<br /> <br /> After Eto'o gave Inter an early lead you would be forgiven for switching off thinking the three points were in the bag, well that's my excuse. Ranocchia headed on a Sneijder corner and Eto'o stabbed over. If Caracciolo had anything resembling a first touch Brescia would have been a goal to the good before Sneijder hit the woodwork with a shot from the edge of the box. Brescia survived sustained Inter pressure before equalising against the run of play. Cordoba headed a Diamanti corner towards his own net and Caracciolo headed past Julio Cesar. Minutes later Cordoba's phantom trip on diver Eder earned him a red and Brescia a penalty but justice was served when Julio Cesar saved from that big lummox Caracciolo.<br /> <br /> <strong>Attendance</strong>: 30,000<br /> <strong>Red Cards </strong> Cordoba 89 (Inter), Caracciolo 95 (Inter)<br /> <strong>Assists</strong>: Ranocchia, n/a<br /><br /><em>For more of Mehdi's work, check out:</em><br /> <a href="http://soccer-europe.com/" target="_blank">http://soccer-europe.com</a> <em><br />Follow Mehdi on Twitter:</em><br /><a title="http://twitter.com/calcioeurope" href="http://twitter.com/calcioeurope" target="_blank">http://twitter.com/calcioeurope</a>
Mehdi
2011-03-14T05:38:00Z
Seattle Sounders FC Preview
Heath Harshman
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Seattle-Sounders-FC-Preview/-114913337811073786.html
2011-03-10T15:58:00Z
2011-03-10T15:58:00Z
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">In their third year in the league the Seattle Sounders are poised to make the jump from mid-table team to Western Conference title challenger. Joined in the northwest by rivals Portland and Vancouver, Sigi Schmid’s men will also, for the first time in the MLS, be challenged as the northwest’s top dog. Yet to advance past the first round of the playoffs in two attempts, the Sounders are hoping that this will be the year they join the top tier of the MLS. </span></span>
<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Pre-season MVP candidate and MLS superstar Fredy Montero will lead the line for Seattle along with former Swiss international Blaise Nkufo, who has already said this will be his last season with the Sounders. Only two MLS players have more points over the last two seasons than Montero, who has also made the MLS All-Star team in each of his two seasons in the league. The Sounders leaned on the Colombian for a big chunk of the second half of the season last year and, in order to make the leap many are predicting, will need guys like Steve Zakuani, Nkufo, and Nate Jaqua to pick up some of the scoring slack. </span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Anchoring the Sounders defense will once again be U.S. soccer icon goalkeeper Kasey Keller. The 41-year-old from Olympia, Wash. has captained the side for 59 consecutive matches and had a microscopic 1.19 goals against average in his 40 appearances last season. Leading the defense in front of him is a familiar and veteran group Sounders followers will quickly recognize. Jhon Kennedy Hurtado, James Riley, Patrick Ianni and Leo Gonzalez give Seattle a defense that is comfortable with each other and used to the battles of a MLS season. </span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Brad Evans and Osvaldo Alonso maintain, much like the rest of the team, a group of guys used to playing together in the Seattle midfield. Attacking wide men Alvaro Fernandez and Steve Zakuani will need to be the playmakers in the final third and take advantage of space left open from defenders marking Montero. Zakuani scored an impressive 11 goals last season and will likely need to have a similar total this season for the Sounders to be near the top of the Western Conference table. </span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The Sounders finished fourth in the Western Conference last season and saved rough start which saw them sitting in 11<sup>th</sup> place 15 matches into the season. They then faced the Los Angeles Galaxy in the first round of the MLS playoffs, their second appearance in as many seasons, and lost 3-1 on aggregate.</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">In their third term the Sounders will have their highest expectations since their stay in the MLS began. Many are predicting Seattle to challenge for the top spot in the Western Conference and push deep into the MLS playoffs. World Football Daily guest, future FIFA President hopeful and Sports Illustrated writer Grant Wahl (Don’t stall, vote for Wahl) posted </span></span><a href="http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/vault/article/magazine/MAG1182990/3/index.htm" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">his predictions</span></a><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;"> earlier this week and has Seattle finishing in third place in the West. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">These expectations have been somewhat tempered after last weekend’s Cascadia Summit in Tukwila, Wash. The Sounders faced off in a three team preseason tournament with rivals Vancouver and Portland and lost both matches against the MLS rookies. After falling to Portland 2-0 Friday night Seattle lost to Vancouver 3-2. Neither Portland or Vancouver have the expectations of the Sounders and losing both matches to big rivals so close to the season will have sent the team a message. </span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Winning the U.S. Open Cup in their inaugural MLS season, the Sounders were hoping to retain the crown and their ticket back into the CONCACAF Champions League. They did just that, defeating their rival Portland Timbers, the Los Angeles Galaxy and Chivas USA en route to defeating Columbus 2-1 in the final on their home field in Seattle. This season Seattle will try to be the eighth team in U.S. Open Cup history to win the title three times and the first to win it three times consecutively since New York Greek American Atlas did so from 1967-69.</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The Sounders open the season in the MLS opening match against the well equipped Los Angeles Galaxy at Qwest Field in Seattle on March 15<sup>th</sup> on ESPN. They then travel to New York and play another high profile early season match just four days later in the opening Saturday of MLS action. Avoiding a bad start like the one they had last season and playing catch-up the second half of the season will play a major role in whether or not the Sounders reach their full potential. </span></span></p>
<p><em><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">Heath Harshman is a sophomore Communication major at Washington State University in Pullman, WA. He recently appeared on the IKTS segment with WFD and hopes to be back covering the NW of the MLS for WFD. He hopes to have a career in public relations and is currently the media relations coordinator of minor league baseball’s Tri-City Dust Devils. Follow Heath on twitter </span></em><a href="http://twitter.com/#%21/HeathHarshman" target="_blank"><em><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">@heathharshman</span></em></a><em><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> or add him on </span></span></em><a href="http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1191161409" target="_blank"><em><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">facebook</span></em></a><em><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">. Thoughts or comments can be sent to Heath at heath_harshman@yahoo.com</span></em></p>
Heath Harshman
2011-03-10T15:58:00Z
Arsenal right to vent frustration but they deserved to lose
Guest TMR Blogger
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Arsenal-right-to-vent-frustration--but-they-deserved-to-lose/482707415326712599.html
2011-03-10T15:46:00Z
2011-03-10T15:46:00Z
TMR Guest Blogger-<br /><br /><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Arsenal were the sinners as Barcelona, the patron saints of beautiful football battered the pretenders to their throne in the Nou Camp last night. For all Arsene Wenger’s protests and squabbles with the referee after the final whistle had blown, his side took one hell of a beating on a night they had hoped to prove they deserved to be mentioned in the same breath as their simply astounding opponents.</span>
<p><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Would the game have been a different one if Van Persie had not been the victim of a foolish decision by Swiss referee Massimo Busacca? Wenger certainly thought so.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Calibri;">“I felt that Barcelona gave a lot in the first half of the game but in the second half we felt there was more space. I felt that, like in the first game, we would have come back into it and overall I am convinced we would have won this game.” He said in his post-match interview.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Calibri;">This game didn’t hinge on an admittedly poor decision. Wenger, so often blinded by his own love of what he has built at Arsenal, ignored the most basic aspects of the game. His side were played off the park by a team on another planet.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Calibri;">When Inter managed to knock <a title="football betting" href="http://www.bigfreebet.com/sports-betting/football-betting/" target="_blank"><strong>football betting</strong></a> <strong> </strong>favourites Barcelona out of the competition last year, they frustrated the Catalan club by pressing and harrying a team who will pass you into submission of you give them a chance to. They were a solid black and blue wall which frustrated Barcelona – Arsenal were unable to replicate their success.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Far from being a blockade against the Barcelona onslaught, they survived like a heavyweight whose legs had gone in the first round. Last ditch tackles by Gael Clichy and Laurent Koscielny saved Arsenal, as did replacement keeper Manual Almunia as they staggered around defying belief that they were able to keep Barcelona from landing the decisive blow. Goals seemed inevitable with every surge. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Calibri;">But as good as their opponents were, Arsenal committed a cardinal sin that undermined their efforts for most of the night. They gave away the ball far too often. Pep Guardiola’s men had 67% possession throughout the match and when they weren’t in control of the ball Arsenal simply gifted it straight back to them. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Time and time again they managed to wrestle the ball off a team who suffer like a broken hearted lover every time the ball cheated on them by finding an Arsenal boot, only to give it straight back with a rushed pass or an aimless long ball. Guardiola’s men treasure the ball when they have it, and long for it when they don’t. Arsenal never had the ball and when they did they scorned an opportunity to use it – tantamount to a criminal offence against a team like this.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Cesc Fabregas was most guilty of this as his nonchalant back heel on the stroke of half time was picked up by Andreas Iniesta just outside of the Arsenal area, who duly found Lionel Messi with a delicious pass through to the Argentinian magician who did the rest for the first Barcelona goal. His tally for the season moved to 44. The 45<sup>th</sup> would soon follow.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Calibri;">For all their attacking verve the home side were spurning chance after chance, and were made to pay for their wastefulness soon after half-time as Arsenal at least looked like a side who knew they would leave the tournament with a whimper if they couldn’t muster anything going forward in the second half.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Calibri;">One of their first forays into Barcelona territory was rewarded with a goal out of nothing. A good attacking run from Samir Nasri, whose defensive work was far more impressive than anything he could do going forward against the irresistible Dani Alves, who had the time of his life in acres of space left vacant by an increasingly narrow defensive unit, forced a corner. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Sergio Busquets nodded into his own net and for a brief moment of time Arsenal dreamed of the next round. David Villa spurned a golden chance to put his team ahead once more straight away as Arsenal were bought back down to the ground with a bump. Arsenal would have to defend for their lives, and for the most part they were successful, by hook or by crook.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Then came the main talking point of the night. Having already been booked for lashing out at Alves as tempers frayed late in the first half, Van Persie protested his innocence as he fired off an attempt on goal after the linesman’s flag was raised. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The irony of Arsenal’s only attempts on goal leading to his side being reduced to ten men will not have offered much comfort for Arsene Wenger.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The subsequent action had an air of inevitability about it as Arsenal finally succumbed as most teams who travel to the Nou Camp do. Xavi tucked away a simply sumptuous goal after a move between Villa and Messi tore apart the Arsenal defence, and before long Koscielny fouled Pedro to give Messi and Barcelona a chance to wrap up the game. <strong><a title="football betting" href="http://www.bigfreebet.com/sports-betting/football-betting/" target="_blank">Football bets</a> </strong>on the score line increasing began to flood in but the damage had been done, and Barcelona had finished for the night. What havoc they had wreaked.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Although Nicklas Bentdner had a golden opportunity to give Arsenal the goal they needed, in truth it would have been nothing short of robbery had they managed to achieve the most unlikely of smash and grabs.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Arsenal may choose to hide behind what was a poor refereeing decision when the game was at 1-1, but the longer the game wore on the more likely it looked that the home side would eventually overcome their ill-feted opponents, even if they had been able to keep 11 men on the pitch.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Their outrage is justified, but they must now look in the mirror and admit they got what they deserved – nothing.</span></p>
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The game was meant to be the day that Wenger was finally proved right. If his football philosophies cannot guarantee trophies on a regular basis then defeating the best team in the world would have been justification enough of his work, but last night in the Nou Camp, the fallacy was finally blown apart. These two teams are not cut from the same cloth.</span><br />
Guest TMR Blogger
2011-03-10T15:46:00Z
Adam's Barclays Premier League Roundup
Adam Johnson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Adams-Barclays-Premier-League-Roundup/948620900187636923.html
2011-03-08T03:55:00Z
2011-03-08T03:55:00Z
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong>Premier League Recap (Mar. 5-7)</strong></em></span></p>
<p>In a wild weekend in the Premier League we saw the leaders lose, the second place team draw, and 18<sup>th</sup> place team win. Arsenal moved closer to drawing level at the top of the table after Manchester United got embarrassed at Anfield by Liverpool, 3-1. There were some great, open matches this week like Bolton-Aston Villa and Birmingham-West Brom. Oh and you probably can’t guess where a 3-3 thriller took place. Here is how all the games shook out.</p>
<p><strong>Birmingham 1-3 West Brom</strong></p>
<p>The early ESPN2 game didn’t sound like an appealing one but it was somewhat worth the watch. Both teams attacked and the network did a good job of letting us know how the fans felt about Birmingham’s recent Carling Cup triumph. Unfortunately for the Blues, they didn’t play nearly as well on Saturday as they did last Sunday. Mulombu scored the opener before Birmingham leveled it through Beausejour. West Brom took control of the match in the second half with goals from James Morrison and Paul Scharner to give Roy Hodgson his first win as West Brom manager.</p>
<p><strong>Arsenal 0-0 Sunderland</strong></p>
<p>This was a big two points dropped at home for the Gunners. Arsenal had the better chances in the match and the finishing of Robin van Persie was certainly missed. Arsene Wenger’s squad outshot Sunderland and had four more overall attempts on target but couldn’t find the goal that would have put them just one point behind Man Utd.</p>
<p><strong>Manchester City 1-0 Wigan</strong></p>
<p>This was a pretty boring one that Man City always seemed the more likely to win. Both teams had a few decent chances but the one goal came from a David Silva shot that Wigan keeper, Ali Al Habsi, fumbled into the net between his legs.</p>
<p><strong>Fulham 3-2 Blackburn</strong></p>
<p>Damien Duff struck twice but Blackburn scratched and clawed their way level. It would not matter, though, because Aaron Hughes was brought down in the box and Bobby Zamora scored the penalty in his first Prem. game this season.</p>
<p><strong>Newcastle 1-2 Everton</strong></p>
<p>Everton finally put two good matches together when they went to St. James’ Park and took all three points from Newcastle. Leon Best capitalized on a rebound from a Kevin Nolan shot to give the home side the lead but Everton would fight back. Goals from Leon Osman and Phil Jagielka (off a beautiful ball from Leighton Baines) gave Everton the win they probably deserved.</p>
<p><strong>Bolton 3-2 Aston Villa</strong></p>
<p>This was a cracking game that was played at a breakneck pace. Both teams carved out chance after chance until Darren Bent scored the first goal to give Villa the lead. Gary Cahill scored twice on either side of a Marc Albrighton goal (thanks to a Stuart Downing cross) to even the game at 2-2. Finally the winner would come for Bolton on an Ivan Klasnic goal after the commentator nearly had an orgasm explaining how great of an advert this match was for the Premier League.</p>
<p><strong>West Ham 3-0 Stoke</strong></p>
<p>The Hammers continued their good little run they are on by getting all three points at home against struggling Stoke City. Goals from Ba, Costa, and a Hitzelsperger rocket were more than enough to get the win for Avram Grant’s men.</p>
<p><strong>Wolves 3-3 Tottenham</strong></p>
<p>Kevin Doyle got the shock opener with a headed goal in the 20’ minute. Jermaine Defoe hasn’t scored in the Premier League at all this season, which is shocking considering the class of his two goals in this game that gave Tottenham a 2-1 lead. Wolves came back to tie the first time on a Doyle penalty that should’ve seen Alan Hutton sent off. Spurs took the lead again on a great left footed shot from Roman Pavlyuchenko, but Wolves would tie it again with a Steven Fletcher headed goal. This was a crazy one at Molineux. </p>
<p><strong>Liverpool 3-1 Manchester United</strong></p>
<p>It was a Dirk Kuyt hat trick that sunk Manchester United and added another great chapter to this storied fixture. The first goal came from an incredible run by Luis Suarez that Kuyt just tapped over the line and the second was after a horrible clearance attempt by Nani that fell right to the Dutchman’s feet about seven yards out. Things got heated after a couple of challenges that could have seen Carragher or Rafael sent off but, nonetheless, it was 2-0 Liverpool at halftime. The final nail was put in the coffin when Kuyt got his third on a rebound off of a Suarez free kick. Chicharito added a goal late to add to his tally but it wouldn’t ruin Liverpool’s great day.</p>
<p><strong>Blackpool 1-3 Chelsea</strong></p>
<p>The Premier League’s version of Monday Night Football was not a marquee matchup but Chelsea didn’t care, they needed three points. John Terry got the opener and Frank Lampard added two of his own before Blackpool got one back, but it wouldn’t matter because Chelsea moved firmly into fourth place with this win. </p>
<p> </p>
Adam Johnson
2011-03-08T03:55:00Z
Retrospective Video Evidence is Allowed
Mehdi
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Retrospective-Video-Evidence-is-Allowed/201560047605408454.html
2011-03-07T03:53:00Z
2011-03-07T03:53:00Z
<em><strong>7 March 2011</strong></em><br /><br /><strong>Retrospective Video Evidence is Allowed</strong>:<br /> <br /> Another weekend of Premier League football sees fan fury over Phil Dowd's failure to punish Jamie Carragher and Brazilian thug Rafael for studs up fouls on Nani and Lucas respectively. Incredibly Dowd's actions, he stood away as brawls broke out following both incidents, were praised by the idiots on Sunday's Match of the Day. We are continually told the media, by websites and pundits that once a referee makes a decision his decision is final.<br /> <br /> This is of course complete nonsense as fans of Serie A and the SPL are all too aware. Refereeing decisions have been overturned, punishments have been handed out and red cards rescinded on reviewing video evidence. Two of the most high profile recent examples:<br /> <br /> Milos Krasic (Juventus) vs Bologna. 24 October 2010<br /> <br /> During a Serie A game between Bologna and Juventus on October the 24th 2010, Juventus were awarded a penalty (subsequently missed) after Krasic dived in the box. Two days later Lega Calcio announced that Krasic would be handed a two game ban for diving. A statement read:<br /><br />"The referee made an error because of a dive by the Juventus player."<br /><br /> Juventus' appeal was rejected.<br /> <br /> Kyle Lafferty (Rangers) vs Aberdeen. 16 May 2009<br /> <br /> During this SPL game, Lafferty clutched his face after apparently being heabutted by Aberdeen's<br /> Charlie Mulgrew. Mulgrew was sent off. On review the SFA (Scottish Football Association) rescinded Mulgrew's red card and handed Lafferty a three match ban.<br /> <br /> Following the controversy over an incident last week which saw referee Mark Clattenburg ignore Wayne Rooney's premeditated elbow to James McCarthy's head during Manchester United's league game against Wigan, on Saturday FIFA President Sepp Blatter confirmed retrospective video evidence could have been used to punish Rooney:<br /> <br /> <a href="http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/05032011/58/premier-league-blatter-rooney-punished.html" target="_blank">http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/05032011/58/premier-league-blatter-rooney-punished.html</a> <br /> <br /> "This is up to the discretion of the national association. They can use video evidence in the discipline and control committee. They can impose or change a decision if a red or yellow card has been given to the wrong player. If there's violence the national association can intervene and punish a player. This is permitted at the discretion of the national association."<br /> <br /> FA chairman David Bernstein contradicted Blatter, saying:<br /> <br /> "In the Wayne Rooney situation, under FIFA regulations if the referee sees the incident, which in this case he did do, the FA has no authority except in what is called exceptional circumstances, really exceptional - the Ben Thatcher incident is the only one where that has been used."<br /> <br /> Of course the real reason the FA refuse to adopt the use of retrospective video evidence is they do not want to undermine or want to be seen to undermine their inept officials.<br /><br /><em>For more of Mehdi's work, check out:</em><br /> <a href="http://soccer-europe.com/" target="_blank">http://soccer-europe.com</a> <em><br />Follow Mehdi on Twitter:</em><br /><a title="http://twitter.com/calcioeurope" href="http://twitter.com/calcioeurope" target="_blank">http://twitter.com/calcioeurope</a><br />
Mehdi
2011-03-07T03:53:00Z
Josh's Bundesliga Recap - Matchday 25
Josh Morris
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Joshs-Bundesliga-Recap---Matchday-25/241529533569852852.html
2011-03-07T03:51:00Z
2011-03-07T03:51:00Z
<p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em>Bundesliga Matchday 25</em></span></strong></p>
<p><strong><br />Hannover 96 v. FC Bayern München 3:1 (1:0)</strong></p>
<p><strong>Goal Scorers: Hannover – Abdellaoue 16’, Rausch 51’, Pinto 62’; FCB – Robben 55’</strong></p>
<p>AWD Arena – 49,000</p>
<p>“Horror in Hannover” was the post-match headline, and with good reason. A team that had become the whipping boys for Bayern, Hannover, completely controlled this game. Hard to believe that less than a year ago, Bayern beat the 96ers 7-0, but that is the hope and belief that Slomka has instilled in his team. Abdellaoue’s goal on 16 minutes was one of speed and power. He snuck in between the Bayern center backs and capitalized on a beautiful cross. The player of the game, Rausch, netted Hannover’s second goal just after the second half began. Bayern might have thought they were in the game when Robben scored on 55 minutes (his first with his head), but the combination of a red card for Breno and the Pinto goal sealed this game and for the time being sealed Hannover in a Champions League Place. The possession stats were lopsided in Bayern’s favor, but to no avail – Hannover took this match reasonably comfortably.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Borussia Dortmund v. FC Köln 1:0 (1:0)</strong></p>
<p><strong>Goal Scorers: Dortmund – Lewandowski 44’</strong></p>
<p>Signal Iduna Park – 80,720</p>
<p>Dortmund just keeps winning. They talk a good talk – “we are not interested in talking about the title,” and more importantly, they play great football. Please don’t be fooled by the score line – Dortmund could/should/would have won by much, much more if it weren’t for Michael Rensing in the Köln net. The former Bayern keeper was not doing the Bavarians any favors. It gets pretty old talking about Dortmund, you can almost cut and paste every week’s roundup and it will basically be true. Dortmund combines speed, technique, and vision better than anybody in Germany. These stats just show how fortunate Köln were: Dortmund had 24 total shots to the Billy Goats 7; Dortmund registered 60% possession; and more importantly for Dortmund’s style – 82% passing success rate (compared to 68% for Köln). The standout player again for Dortmund was Nuri Sahin. Sahin completed 62/75 of his passes, and if you look at any statistical map of player position it is clear that everything Dortmund does going forward goes through Sahin. Let’s hope he stays at Dortmund and continues to grow, his exciting talent needs nurturing.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Bayer 04 Leverkusen v. VfL Wolfsburg 3:0 (3:0)</strong></p>
<p><strong>Goal Scorers: Bayer – Bender 21’, Augusto 29’, Kießling 45’</strong></p>
<p>Bay Arena – 28,115</p>
<p>First half of the weekend! Too bad Dortmund is so good because Leverkusen are worthy champions. Jupp Heynckes has built a solid squad. Their midfield is only second to Dortmund’s. Much will be made about Lars Bender’s composure to score the first goal, but the flick from Sidney Sam was incredible. As I have mentioned before, if you are not watching Sidney Sam – you should! Augusto’s goal was a thing of beauty as well; a rocket from about 25 yards. A boring second half was really down to the composure and possession of Leverkusen. </p>
<p>What is left to say about Wolfsburg? I watch them and think when will they dust off these cobwebs? Honestly, maybe in 2 Bundesliga… They find themselves one point above the relegation playoff.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Hamburger SV v. 1. FSV Mainz 05 2:4 (1:0)</strong></p>
<p><strong>Goal Scorers: HSV – Jansen 17’, Petric 59’; Mainz – Aogo 56’ (OG), Kacar 61’ (OG), Schürrle 82’, Heller 88’</strong></p>
<p>HSH Nordbank Arena – 49,460</p>
<p>This was a superb match for Mainz. They showed that grit and determination that they embodied for the first half of the season. With a Europa League spot up for grabs this match was fearsome. Mainz simply fought longer and harder than HSV and was rewarded with the victory. Schürrle was the man of the match solely because of the last ten minutes. This win propelled Mainz into fourth and forced Bayern down into fifth one point behind Mainz. HSV, on the other hand, find themselves still in the hunt for Europa League qualification, but are now in seventh after an emphatic win from Nürnberg.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>1. FC Nürnberg v. FC St. Pauli 5:0 (3:0)</strong></p>
<p><strong>Goal Scorers: FCN – Wollscheid 3’, Eigler 14’, 17’, 86’, 87’</strong></p>
<p>Easy-Credit Stadion – 45,109</p>
<p>It is not often that somebody can say Nürnberg looked great; well this was one of those moments. St. Pauli have not been easy prey as of late either (although they are starting to slip away), this was a legitimate result. Christian Eigler will take all the plaudits – four goals will do that for any player! The fact is that this match was never in doubt, 3-0 up at halftime allowed Der Club to sit back and play their game. Mehmet Ekici pulls the strings for Nürnberg – 45/47 passing, and continually is becoming one of the most exciting players in the Bundesliga.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>VfB Stuttgart v. FC Schalke 04 1:0 (1:0)</strong></p>
<p><strong>Goal Scorers: VfB – Kuzmanovic 15’ (PK)</strong></p>
<p>Mercedes-Benz Arena – 39,000</p>
<p>FC Inconsistent, AKA Schalke, once again failed to build on their midweek momentum on the road at Stuttgart this weekend; further frustration for Magath who is already the most unlikable manager in the Bundesliga. Usually we have discussion after a match in Europe, but this week Schalke knocked Bayern out of the DFB Pokal (German FA Cup). Schalke was not helped with a red card for Höwedes after 14 minutes. The resulting penalty led to VfB’s goal from Kuzmanovic. </p>
<p>In actuality, the most important aspect of this match was that Stuttgart are only one point away from safety, and judging by the complete dross that is above them (e.g. Wolfsburg and Frankfurt to name only two), Stuttgart are starting to believe that safety is a real option. Kuzmanovic has been a great player this season, and those reasons were on display against the Royal Blues. He completely controlled the middle of the park and completed 65/74 passes.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Borussia M'gladbach v. 1899 Hoffenheim 2:0 (0:0)</strong></p>
<p><strong>Goal Scorers: Gladbach – Daems 65’ (PK), de Camargo 70’</strong></p>
<p>Stadion im Borussia Park – 35,350</p>
<p>Just like fellow basement dweller VfB, this was a vital three points for Gladbach. They are still 4 points away from safety, but this is a confident move in the right direction against a Hoffenheim side that find themselves 7 points outside of a Europa League spot. It seems as though Lucien Favre is stamping his name on this squad; they should have been up by 2 goals already at the half. Daems slotted in a penalty in his own consistent fashion (although Hoffenheim keeper, Starke got a hand to it). Hoffenheim will ask more questions of their defense; de Camargo was wide open for his 70<sup>th</sup> minute header that sealed the three points.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>SC Freiburg v. SV Werder Bremen 1:3 (0:1)</strong></p>
<p><strong>Goal Scorers: SCF – Cisse 49’ (PK); Bremen – Wagner 12’, Pizarro 76’, Marin 90+2’</strong></p>
<p>Badenova-Stadion – 24,000</p>
<p>For Werder Bremen supporters it cannot be overstated how important these three points are (just as VfB and Gladbach supporters would agree) because it keeps them above the drop for another week (three points clear). At times it appeared that the stress of relegation was getting to Bremen; they panicked in possession and wasted opportunities, but began to calm down in the second half. The Bundesliga’s all-time leading foreign goal scorer Claudio Pizarro (let's call him BALFGS Claudio Pizarro for short) put Bremen ahead and then Marin sealed the points in time added on. Marin is constantly a player to watch out for. While at Gladbach he was a creative menace, but had to hide in the shadows of Mesut Özil<strong> </strong>last season at Bremen. He has a bit more license this season.</p>
<p>Freiburg simply needs to put this match behind them and see the positives in a weekend in which HSV and Hoffenheim lost. They are tied on point with HSV with 37.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Eintracht Frankfurt v. 1. FC Kaiserslautern 0:0 (0:0)</strong></p>
<p>Commerzbank-Arena – 49,400</p>
<p>Snooze…</p>
<p>*The <em>fun</em> statistic for Frankfurt continues – no wins and no goals in 2011!</p>
<p>*Also, this is the first 0-0 since Matchday 21 (Frankfurt was one of those as well…)</p>
<p><em><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><br /></span></em></p>
Josh Morris
2011-03-07T03:51:00Z
Mehdi's Serie A Round 28 Recap
Mehdi
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Mehdis-Serie-A-Round-28-Recap/979619578611631157.html
2011-03-07T03:47:00Z
2011-03-07T03:47:00Z
<em><strong><br /></strong></em><em><strong>6 March 2011</strong></em><br /> <br /> <strong>SAMPDORIA </strong>2 (Volta 83, Maccarone 93 Pen)<br /> <strong>CESENA</strong> 3 (Parolo 43, Giaccherini 46, Giaccherini 48)<br /> <br /> Biabiany missed an open goal, twice. Parolo turned onto a loose ball following a mistake by Lucchini and blasted Cesena into the lead. He set-up the second with a cross to the back post, Giaccherini caught the ball on the drop with a stunning right foot volley which flew in off the left post. Another defensive mistake, another goal. Gastaldello failed to make a routine clearance, Giaccherini picked his pocket, wrestled free as the defender tried to bring him down then swept past Curci. Antonioli caught a Maccarone free kick, bounced the ball then failed to catch it and Volta tapped into an empty net. Maccarone converted a soft last minute penalty but there wasn't enough time for Samp to rescue what would have been an ill deserved point.<br /><br /> <strong>Attendance</strong>: 21,206<br /> <strong>Assists</strong>: n/a, Parolo, n/a, n/a, Volta (won pen)<br /> <br /> <br /> <strong>BOLOGNA </strong>2 (Di Vaio 29 Pen, Ramirez 94)<br /> <strong>CAGLIARI</strong> 2 (Cossu 59, Ragatzu 83)<br /> <br /> Cagliari fought back after Di Vaio gave the home side the lead with a bullshit penalty. Britos and Acquafresca crashed into each other when attacking a Nainggolan cross, the ball broke to Cossu and he took a touch before driving past Viviano to score his first goal of the season. Perico had two bites of the cherry at a corner, Lazzari took the ball off him and centred before he could screw up for a third time and Ragatzu put the visitors in front. With seconds left on the clock Jimenez sent a free kick into a crowded penalty area, Agazzi flapped at the ball and Ramirez, standing to the left of the box, angled his body and un-corked a left foot volley which ripped into the roof of the net.<br /> <br /> <strong>Attendance</strong>: 25,134<br /> <strong>Assists</strong>: Di Vaio (won pen), n/a, Lazzari, n/a<br /><br /> <br /> <strong>CHIEVO</strong> 0<br /> <strong>PARMA</strong> 0<br /> <br /> <strong>Attendance</strong>: 10,036<br /> <strong>Red Card</strong>: Palette 74 (Parma)<br /> <strong>Assists</strong>: n/a<br /> <br /> <br /> <strong>FIORENTINA</strong> 3 (Mutu 21, Mutu 24, Gilardino 61)<br /> <strong>CATANIA</strong> 0<br /> <br /> Gilardino flicked on a corner and Mutu, the Romanian Charlie Sheen, headed in at the back post. Three minutes later a Keystone Cops moment in the Catania defence gifted him a second. Gilardino tapped in a third on the counter to complete what was a rare comfortable victory which ends fear of bring dragged into a relegation dogfight.<br /><br /> <br /> <strong>Attendance</strong>: 28,130<br /> <strong>Assists</strong>: Gilardino, n/a, Montolivo<br /> <br /> <br /> <strong>INTER</strong> 5 (Pazzini 50, Eto'o 51, Eto'o 57, Pandev 71, Nagatomo 84)<br /> <strong>GENOA</strong> 2 (Palacio 40, Boselli 90)<br /> <br /> Chivu got sucked in by Paloschi allowing Palacio to run onto Konko's pass and beat Julio Cesar with a precise low shot into the bottom left corner. Inter turned the game on it's head in a chilling 7 minute spell. Eto'o released Maicon on the overlap and Pazzini hammered his centre first time past Eduardo. Another in a long, long list of Eduardo blunders gifted Inter the lead. He failed to make a routine save from Pandev and Eto'o tapped in the rebound. Konko gave a back-pass to Mesto who had Eto'o breathing down his neck, he slipped, Eto'o ran into the box, flicked the ball past Kaladze then poked into the bottom left corner. Eto'o pulled defenders forward as he ran from inside the box to the outside and played a ball into the space to Sneijder, Pandev tapped in his centre. Nagatomo pushed away Rossi as he turned onto a Kharja pass and blasted in a 5th. Wigan reject Boselli headed in a pointless 2nd for Genoa but at least he got off the mark in Serie A.<br /> <br /> <strong>Attendance</strong>: 56,322<br /> <strong>Assists</strong>: Konko, Maicon, n/a, n/a, Sneijder, Kharja, Palacio<br /> <br /> <br /> <strong>NAPOLI</strong> 0<br /> <strong>BRESCIA</strong> 0<br /> <br /> <strong>Attendance</strong>: 30,000<br /> <strong>Red Card</strong>: Mazzarri 34 (Napoli)<br /> <strong>Assists</strong>: n/a<br /> <br /> <br /> <strong>UDINESE</strong> 1 (Di Natale 76 Pen)<br /> <strong>BARI</strong> 0<br /> <br /> <strong>Attendance</strong>: 16,000<br /> <strong>Assist</strong>: Sanchez (won pen)<br /> <br /> <br /> <strong>LAZIO</strong> 2 (Sculli 7, Sculli 18)<br /> <strong>PALERMO</strong> 0<br /> <br /> Lazio took back four place from Udinese, having lost it hours earlier, with a comfortably victory over Palermo. Sculli ran through a square Palermo defence before beating Sirigu then headed in a Ledesma cross. Pastore forced the only save Muslera had to make from a corner. Too easy, far too easy. Serse Cosmi has a lot of work to do.<br /> <br /> <strong>Attendance</strong>: 25,000<br /> <strong>Assists</strong>: Ledesma, Ledesma<br /> <br /> <br /> <em><strong>5 March 2011</strong></em><br /> <br /> <strong>JUVENTUS</strong> 0<br /> <strong>MILAN</strong> 1 (Gattuso 68)<br /> <br /> Flamini chipped a loose ball to the back post and Traore, yes the one on loan from Arsenal, did enough to put off Ibrahimovic. Jankulovski ran into traffic, Boateng picked up the ball and angled a pass out wide to Cassano, he checked inside Melo and with only Buffon to beat he blazed over. Terrible miss. Ibrahimovic forced a save with a free kick. Thiago Silva hit a longball into Ibrahimovic, he chested it down to Robinho, Gattuso took it off his toes and hit a tame left foot shot, Buffon fumbled and the ball trickled into the net. For the second successive game Milan's opposition didn't register a shot on target.<br /> <br /> <strong>Attendance</strong>: 24,908<br /> <strong>Assist</strong>: Robinho<br /> <br /> <br /> <em><strong>4 March 2011</strong></em><br /> <br /> <strong>LECCE</strong> 1 (Giacomazzi 75)<br /> <strong>ROMA</strong> 2 (Vucinic 32, Pizarro 90 Pen)<br /> <br /> Vucinic scored one of the goals of the season. Standing in the centre circle with his back to goal, he flicked on a high long ball with a back heal volley, held off a defender then chased it down, ran towards the box, forced defenders to back off with a series of feints then gently toe poked the ball inside the right post. Giacomazzi deservedly headed Lecce level but Munari pissed away a point when he charged down a header with his arm.<br /> <br /> <strong>Attendance</strong>: 10,450<br /> <strong>Assists</strong>: n/a, Munari, n/a<br /> <br /> <em>For more of Mehdi's work, check out:</em><br /> <a href="http://soccer-europe.com/" target="_blank">http://soccer-europe.com</a> <em><br />Follow Mehdi on Twitter:</em><br /><a title="http://twitter.com/calcioeurope" href="http://twitter.com/calcioeurope" target="_blank">http://twitter.com/calcioeurope</a><br />
Mehdi
2011-03-07T03:47:00Z
Mehdi's Serie A Round 27 Recap
Mehdi
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Mehdis-Serie-A-Round-27-Recap/-650906964671070914.html
2011-03-07T03:23:00Z
2011-03-07T03:23:00Z
<em><strong><br />28 February 2011</strong></em><br /> <br /> <strong>MILAN</strong> 3 (Ibrahimovic 49 Pen, Boateng 77, Pato 79)<br /> <strong>NAPOLI</strong> 0<br /> <br /> The first half was a repeat of Milan - Spurs until the half hour mark. Van Bommel ran onto a deflected shot as he pulled the trigger Aronica flew across goal and made a great block. Pato should have given Milan the lead on the 40th minute but after De Sanctis spilled for Flamini his tame shot was cleared off the line.<br /> <br /> Van Bommel theatrically went down in the box and minutes later drew a great save with a half volley at the back post. Milan's fierce second half pressure told seconds later. Cannavaro, under pressure from Ibrahimovic, tried to head clear a Gattuso cross, Jankulovski attacked the ball with an overhead kick, Pato went in with his head but Aronica got the decisive touch, elbowing the ball clear. After some confusion the ref pointed to the post and Ibrahimovic put Milan a goal up. Pato and Robinho drew great saves from De Sanctis. Boateng replaced Robinho on 62 minutes and finished off a splendid counter attack. Ibrahimovic released Pato with a sensational no look crossfield pass, Pato chased down the ball, waited for support then rolled the ball across goal and Boateng finished first time. Brilliant goal, brilliant player. Pato rubber stamped his best performance of the season with a brilliant solo goal. The brilliant Van Bommel headed a cross far from the Milan penalty area, Pato picked up possession on the centre circle, ran at two defenders and as they backed off whipped the ball inside the top right corner.<br /> <br /> Brilliant second half performance from Milan. If Boateng stays fit the scudetto is Milan's.<br /> <br /> <strong>Attendance</strong>: 77,276<br /> <strong>Assists</strong>: n/a, Pato, Van Bommel<br /> <br /> <br /> <strong><em>27 February 2011</em></strong><br /> <br /> <strong>CATANIA</strong> 2 (Maxi Lopez 51, Bergessio 56)<br /> <strong>GENOA</strong> 1 (Floro Flores 19)<br /> <br /> Andujar spilled Kucka's fierce drive and Floro Flores snared the rebound. Rossi headed a glorious Moretti cross against the bar and shot the rebound right into Andujar's arms. Terrible miss that cost Genoa the game. Lodi threw himself at a low inswinging free kick, the ball bounded off a clutch of Genoa defenders and Maxi Lopes tapped in the equaliser. Bergessio, who is course Argentinean like most of the Catania team, blasted in the winner, via a deflection, after a failed one-two with Maxi Lopez. Genoa lost Criscito to a bullshit red card. The defender won a ball with a sliding tackle, Lodi ran into his legs and threw himself high up in the air, a ridiculous dive. The ref, Giannoccaro, showed Floro Flores a red for protesting and Ballardini followed. Augustyn was sent off after Paloschi dived in the box but Veloso missed the penalty. Free kick expert Lodi rattled a post with a superb shot from the edge of the box.<br /><br /> <br /> <strong>Attendance</strong>: 12,588<br /> <strong>Red Cards</strong>: Criscito 67 (Genoa), Floro Flores 68 (Genoa), Ballardini 70 (Genoa), Augustyn 75 (Catania)<br /> <strong>Assists</strong>: n/a, n/a, n/a<br /> <br /> <br /> <strong>BARI</strong> 1 (Ghezzal 87)<br /> <strong>FIORENTINA</strong> 1 (Gilardino 21)<br /> <br /> Montolivo clipped a ball over the top, Gilardino let it bounce before angling a half volley into the corner. Lovely finish. Fiorentina failed to clear a corner, Ghezzal picked up the ball on the edge of the D and with the outside of his right foot curled a shot inside the top left corner. Fantastic goal.<br /> <br /> <strong>Attendance</strong>: 15,000<br /> <strong>Assists</strong>: Montolivo, n/a<br /> <br /> <br /> <strong>BRESCIA</strong> 2 (Caracciolo 16, Zoboli 19)<br /> <strong>LECCE</strong> 2 (Corvia 31, Munari 70)<br /> <br /> Brescia raced into a two goal lead, both headers. The first from a great Zambelli cross and the second from a corner. The heavily tattooed Kone could have scored a third before Corvia punished a lame offside trap to pull a goal back for De Canio's men. Lecce won a throw-in high up the pitch, Munari ran onto the ball and equalised via a deflection.<br /> <br /> <strong>Attendance</strong>: 6,000<br /> <strong>Assists</strong>: Zambelli, Diamanti (ck), Munari, Mesbah<br /> <br /> <br /> <strong>CAGLIARI</strong> 1 (Dias 40)<br /> <strong>LAZIO</strong> 0<br /> <br /> <strong>Attendance</strong>: 8,000<br /> <strong>Assists</strong>: n/a<br /> <br /> <br /> <strong>CESENA</strong> 1 (Jimenez 90 Pen)<br /> <strong>CHIEVO</strong> 0<br /><br /> <strong>Attendance</strong>: 14,084<br /> <strong>Assists</strong>: Bogdani (won pen)<br /><br /> <br /> <strong>PALERMO</strong> 0<br /> <strong>UDINESE</strong> 7 (Di Natale 10, Sanchez 19, Sanchez 28, Di Natale 41, Sanchez 42, Sanchez 48, Di Natale 60 Pen)<br /> <br /> Armero, one of the best left backs in Serie A, was given time and space to measure a cross and Di Natale pulled away from Bovo to head past Sirigu. Sanchez made it 0-2 after Sirigu fumbled from a corner. Udinese's third would have brought tears of joy to Dunga's face. Defending a corner Isla passed the ball out wide left to Di Natale who didn't even look up as he played a first time centre to Sanchez who was tearing down the middle, Sanchez bamboozled Sirigu with a series of stepovers before rounding him and tapping into an empty net. Absolutely brilliant. Bacinovic was shown a second yellow for bringing down Armero, who was attacking down the right flank. Another mistake by Italy's #2, another goal. He dropped to his knees as Asamoah let rip from distance, must have forgotten to catch the ball or something as it bounced off his mid-riff, dived at Sanchez's feet but Di Natale tapped in the rebound. Less than a minute later Bovo slipped under pressure from Sanchez who cut in from the left, skipped past Pinzi and tapped the ball inside the left post. Sirigu make an excellent point blank save from Sanchez, putting the ball out for a corner only Sanchez immediately ran it back it play and scored. I guess the linesman had given up as well. The once much vaunted Darmian (on loan from Milan) pulled back Armero to earn himself a red card and Udinese a penalty. By now Udinese got bored and Di Natale didn't celebrate after completing his hat-trick.<br /><br /><br /> <br /> <strong>Attendance</strong>: 22,831<br /> <strong>Red Cards</strong>: Darmian 59 (Palermo), Bacinovic 40 (Palermo)<br /> <strong>Assists</strong>: Armero, n/a, Di Natale, n/a, n/a, n/a, Armero (won pen)<br /> <br /> <br /> <strong>ROMA</strong> 2 (Totti 19 Pen, Juan 36)<br /> <strong>PARMA</strong> 2 (Amauri 74, Amauri 79)<br /><br /> Lucarelli stood his ground in the box as Taddei ran into him, bounced off and fell. The ref awarded Roma a penalty after prompting by the Roma players. Amauri grabbed a big chunk of De Rossi's shirt as Parma defended a corner, Sirigu spilled De Rossi's header and Juan poked in the rebound. Roma lost Pizarro to injury at half time and their midfield as a result. Amauri scored another incredible goal. Standing towards the middle right of the penalty area as Valiani swung in a cross he jumped in the air and scored with a back heal volley. Valiani also had a hand in the equaliser. Crespo and Cassetti collided when attacking his cross and Amauri fired in the rebound. Boy could Juve use Amauri right now. Parma were lucky to survive a penalty appeal for handball but they deserved a point.<br /> <br /> <strong>Attendance</strong>: 28,000<br /> <strong>Red Card</strong>: Paci 80 (Parma)<br /> <strong>Assists</strong>: Taddei (won pen), n/a, Valiani, n/a<br /> <br /> <br /> <strong>SAMPDORIA</strong> 0<br /> <strong>INTER</strong> 2 (Sneijder 73 fk, Eto'o 94)<br /> <br /> Sneijder broke the deadlock with a brilliant free kick. Eto'o, who was once again wasteful, pulled down a Stankovic long ball, beat a defender and fired between Curci's legs.<br /> <br /> <strong>Attendance</strong>: 25,000<br /> <strong>Assists</strong>: Pazzini (won fk), Stankovic<br /> <br /> <br /> <strong><em>26 February 2011</em></strong><br /> <br /> <strong>JUVENTUS </strong>0<br /> <strong>BOLOGNA</strong> 2 (Di Vaio 49, Di Vaio 66)<br /> <br /> Iaquinta rattled the inside of a post late in a dull first half. Sloppy play by Melo allowed Mutarelli to steal a ball in midfield, he chipped a cross over the top of the Juve defence and despite pressure from Chiellini Di Vaio lobbed over Storari. Fine finish. His second was a work of art. Mutarelli dropped a brilliant crossfield pass between two Juve defenders to Meggiorini he back healed the ball to Di Vaio, he touched it inside Bonucci, went past Grygera then squeezed a shot inside the left post. Portanova denied Toni with a brilliant goal-line clearance.<br /> <br /> <strong>Attendance</strong>: 20,843<br /> <strong>Assists</strong>: Mutarelli, Meggiorini<br /><br /><em>For more of Mehdi's work, check out:</em><br /> <a href="http://soccer-europe.com/" target="_blank">http://soccer-europe.com</a> <em><br /> Follow Mehdi on Twitter:</em><br /> <a title="http://twitter.com/calcioeurope" href="http://twitter.com/calcioeurope" target="_blank">http://twitter.com/calcioeurope</a><br />
Mehdi
2011-03-07T03:23:00Z
Portland Timbers Preview
Heath Harshman
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Portland-Timbers-Preview/671241894686596707.html
2011-03-04T03:42:00Z
2011-03-04T03:42:00Z
“<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: small;">Rose City ‘til I die”, a song often sung by the <a href="http://timbersarmy.org/feed" target="_blank">Timbers Army</a>, will be heard loud and proud by teams all over the MLS for the first time this season. The Timbers Army, an independent supporters group of the MLS expansion Portland Timbers, may have quite a bit to cheer this season as well. </span></span>
<p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: small;">Joining Vancouver Whitecaps FC as the two new teams joining the league this season, the Timbers have begun their MLS membership in a much different fashion than their northwest rival. Loaded with players with previous MLS experience, the Timbers are attempting to do what most sports franchises find difficult, be successful while still building for the future. Doing that while also playing at the highest level of play the franchise has ever played at will be one of the more interesting MLS storylines this season. </span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: small;">Former D.C. United goalkeeper Troy Perkins along and MLS returnee forward Kenny Cooper lead a group of 10 players with previous MLS experience, at the moment, on the Timbers first team roster. Recently joined by former Sporting Kansas City midfielder Jack Jewsbury, whom the Timbers traded allocation money for on Tuesday, Portland will have a very experienced starting lineup that will look to challenge immediately.</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: small;">Cooper, arguably the most well known name on the Timbers’ roster, joins Portland after two injury plagued seasons with TSV 1860 Munich in the 2.Bundesliga. He scored just two goals in just 14 appearances during those two seasons and will hope to capture some of the form from his four previous seasons with FC Dallas. Cooper is second all-time on the FC Dallas goals chart, scoring 40 times in 90 games. That impressive goal scoring record earned him three appearances with the U.S. Men’s national team over the last few years in which he is yet to score. </span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: small;">Those experienced players will have a chance to prove their worth from the very outset of the season. The Timbers’ first three matches, as well as four of their first six, are all on the road. Although <a href="http://www.portlandtimbers.com/stadium-renovation" target="_blank">PGE Park</a>, which is undergoing a $31 million renovation to meet MLS standards, will look magnificent and pack around 20,000 LOUD supporters, the Timbers won’t play there until April 14. </span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: small;">The massive amount of MLS experience on the roster is definitely something for Portland fans to be happy about. But, retaining guys that know what it means to pull on the Timbers shirt in front of those fans is something that a team like Portland needed to do.</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: small;">Portland understood this and did well by, so far, bringing back nine players that played for the Timbers in the USSF D-2 last season. Most notably the team’s top two scorers, Ryan Pore and Bright Dike, both return. The duo combined to score 25 of the Timbers’ 33 goals last season and, combined with Cooper, could provide Portland with arguably the best attack in the northwest. </span></span></p>
<p> <span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: small;">One of the more exciting prospects on the Timbers’ roster is rookie forward/midfielder Darlington Nagbe. The 20-year-old out of Akron University was the drafted second overall by Portland in this season’s MLS SuperDraft. A member of Generation Adidas, Nagbe tallied 19 goals and 19 assists in his three seasons with the Zips which included winning a national title last season as a junior. </span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: small;">The “gelling” of the Timbers seemingly good mix of experience and young players will be an important factor in the overall success of the team, especially with starting so much of the season on the road. However, a rough start in those first few road games won’t put Portland out of the playoff picture. Throughout the season they have multiple stretches of four out of five matches at home. Meaning the Timbers will get to use that massive home field advantage during the regular season to help them dig themselves out of any potential hole they find themselves in around mid-April. </span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: small;">Getting their first looks at each other as MLS opponents, the three northwest teams will all meet this weekend for what is being called the “Cascadia Summit”. Seattle will host Portland and Vancouver as each team will face one another with the Timbers and Sounders playing the opener Friday night. All three matches will be played at the Starfire Sports Complex in Tukwila, WA, a few miles outside of Seattle. These matches will be streamed on each respective team’s website for free starting approximately 20 minutes before first kick. </span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: small;">Considering the new playoff format for the upcoming season, the Timbers will be looking to follow their rival Sounders in making the playoffs in their inaugural season. With their roster and fan base, it wouldn’t be surprising at all to see them challenging for a potential spot come September.</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: small;"><em>Heath Harshman is a sophomore Communication major at Washington State University in Pullman, WA. Heath has a weekly political-media radio show Thursdays from 11a.m.-12p.m. on KUGR.org. He hopes to have a career in public relations and is currently the media relations coordinator of minor league baseball’s Tri-City Dust Devils. Follow Heath on twitter <a href="http://twitter.com/#%21/HeathHarshman" target="_blank">@heathharshman</a></em></span></span> <span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: small;"><em>or add him on <a href="http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1191161409" target="_blank">facebook</a>. Thoughts or comments can be sent to Heath at heath_harshman@yahoo.com</em></span></span></p>
Heath Harshman
2011-03-04T03:42:00Z
Adam's Barclays Premier League & Carling Cup Final Roundup
Adam Johnson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Adams-Barclays-Premier-League--Carling-Cup-Final-Roundup/-499116554905738354.html
2011-03-02T08:48:00Z
2011-03-02T08:48:00Z
<p>Premier League Recap & Carling Cup Final (Feb. 26-Mar.01)</p>
<p>It wasn’t the most appealing weekend in the Premier League but some good games were played. Arsenal and Birmingham were in the Carling Cup Final so their games were moved to another date so there were only seven/eight league games played. Here is what happened in those matches along with a little analysis of said Carling Cup Final.</p>
<p><strong>Chelsea 2-1 Manchester United</strong></p>
<p>This wasn’t technically on the weekend, but I wanted to get it in here because of the enormity of the matchup and the fact that it was such a good game. Wayne Rooney opened the scoring with a strikers strike that he tucked into the bottom left corner. Chelsea started Nic Anelka and Fernando Torres up front but it was the new defender they signed, David Luiz, who scored his first goal for the club and a massive one as it drew the Blues level. I felt the winner was coming for Chelsea and it eventually did when Chris Smalling brought down Yuri Zhirkov which allowed Frank Lampard to thump the winning penalty home. Nemanja Vidic was sent off late, which could be costly as he will miss the Liverpool match this coming weekend. I really enjoyed the match all the way through and as a neutral I’m so happy Chelsea won so this title race can now get really interesting.</p>
<p><strong>Carling Cup Final- Birmingham 2-1 Arsenal</strong></p>
<p>What a final it was at Wembley. Arsenal came in as the heavy favorites but Birmingham were up for it. It was Nikola Zigic who opened the scoring for Birmingham with a header that he couldn’t have known much about. The Blue half of the crowd went nuts in a stadium that I would have loved to have been at. Arsenal did come back strongly and got an equalizer through Robin van Persie on an amazing right foot volley from and Andrei Arshavin cross. Just before the goal Jack Wilshere had a shot hit the cross bar after grazing Ben Foster’s fingertips. Both of those young Englishmen had fantastic games, by the way. The second half was great and Arsenal came in waves but Birmingham defended well and fought back and somehow got a winner after a looped ball caused mayhem between Koscielny and Sczczesny. The ball squirted out of the young keeper’s hands and sub Obafemi Martins was right there to roll it home for the Cup. The scenes at the end of the match were inspiring as the Birmingham players and manager, Alex McCleish, ran around and showed true, true joy.</p>
<p><strong>Stoke 1-1 West Brom</strong></p>
<p>This was a matchup that I doubt any of you watched or even knew happened but it did and it was a dull 1-1 draw. The Potters scored first through Rory Delap but late on the on-loan striker, Carlos Vela, got the equalizer to earn a point on the road.</p>
<p><strong>West Ham 3-1 Liverpool</strong></p>
<p>This is a big blow for Liverpool as they drop a very winnable away match at Upton Park. The Reds never looked like they were going to get much out of this and especially when they went down a Scott Parker brilliant goal and equally brilliant Demba Ba header. Livepool did get one back through Glen Johnson, but West Ham sealed the match with Carlton Cole’s strike. Huge win for the Hammers.</p>
<p><strong>Manchester City 1-1 Fulham</strong></p>
<p>How fitting is it that Mark Hughes’ return to the City of Manchester Stadium was a draw? Mario Balotelli and Damien Duff got the goals for each club in the 1-1.</p>
<p><strong>Wigan 0-4 Manchester United</strong></p>
<p>With Arsenal having the Cup final to attend to, Man Utd could push the lead at the top to four points again with a win, and after Wayne Rooney tried to break James McCarthy’s face, United did just that. Chicharito got the first goal after a great build up and then Nani hit the post with his newly ignited left foot. In the second half United poured it on with another goal from Chicharito along with Rooney and Fabio strikes to end it for good. Rooney should have been sent off and suspended for three matches but the FA is the FA.</p>
<p><strong>Aston Villa 4-1 Blackburn</strong></p>
<p>Villa are starting to find their stride as they destroy Blackburn. Ashley Young continued his good run with a penalty followed by an own goal, a Downing goal, Blackburn drawing closer then Young putting it away for good. This match even had a Robert Pires sighting.</p>
<p><strong>Everton 2-0 Sunderland</strong></p>
<p>If you didn’t know the standings you would think Everton was the club trying for a place in Europe, but I guess that’s where they should’ve been all season. Jermaine Beckford got the ball rolling with a great goal in the 8’ minute. Everton dominated this match but Sunderland had one or two chances, mainly Sessegnon’s shot that rattled the crossbar. A second goal and three points would come with another Beckford goal.</p>
<p><strong>Newcastle 1-1 Bolton</strong></p>
<p>Captain Kevin Nolan scored first for Newcastle but Danny Sturridge scored again for Bolton as he leveled it at 1-1. Newcastle’s Ryan Taylor was sent off for a stupid tackle in the second half and the game would finish with the score it was at the half.</p>
<p><strong>Wolves 4-0 Blackpool</strong></p>
Hopefully you didn’t really think I was going to watch this whole match? Well, for the parts I saw it was really worth it. Both teams flew at each other and Matt Jarvis was all over the place getting the opener. And it got better for Wolves when DJ Campbell was sent off. Jamie O’Hara scored the second for Wolves then Sylvan Ebanks-Blake scored the next two to humiliate Blackpool.
<p> </p>
Adam Johnson
2011-03-02T08:48:00Z
MLS New Playoff Breakdown
Heath Harshman
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/MLS-New-Playoff-Breakdown/-296277786405886691.html
2011-02-28T06:12:00Z
2011-02-28T06:12:00Z
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The MLS has announced their changes to the </span></span><a href="http://www.mlssoccer.com/news/article/mls-reveals-expanded-playoffs-structure-2011" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">2011 MLS playoff structure</span></a><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">. Ten of the 18 teams in the league will feature in the playoffs in yet another unique MLS playoff structure. The simple version goes like this: the top three teams in each conference, which got shaken up a bit during the off season, automatically make the playoffs for their conference’s half of the bracket. Joining those six teams will be four wild card teams. Based on a single MLS table, the next highest four point total earners, not already in the playoffs, go into a play-in game to face either conferences number one seed. </span>
<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> Then it gets a little tricky.</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> Those four teams will play as the seven through ten seeds in the wild card playoffs. The seven seed will play the ten while the eight seed faces the nine. Whichever lowest seed is remaining after the two games will play the Supporter’s Shield winner, which goes to the team with the most points in the league at the end of the season. </span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> The wild card round will be played as a one-game playoff hosted by the team with the higher seed, the seven and eight seeds. </span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> The bracket would then look more like the typical 1v4-2v3 seeds facing off on each side, with the one seeds from each conference facing the wild card team as the 2 and 3 seeds in each conference play each other. This format ensures that at least one team from their respective conference will represent that conference in the conference final, hopefully reducing some of the strange conference final matchups in the last few years. </span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> The conference semi-finals will be, like previous postseasons, two-legged goal-aggregate matches, with the winner advancing to one-game conference final playoff hosted by the highest seed remaining. </span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> The location and date of MLS Cup 2011 is yet to be determined and will be announced at a later date. </span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> To give this structure some context, here’s a look at how last season’s standings would’ve shaken out come playoff time. The top three seeds in the East would be, in order, New York, Columbus then Kansas City. The automatic qualifiers from West would consist of Los Angeles, Real Salt Lake and FC Dallas. </span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> Following them, as wild cards, would be Seattle, Colorado, San Jose and Chicago. This would mean Seattle would host Chicago and Colorado would host San Jose. </span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> This format would’ve given two more clubs, Chicago and Kansas City, trips to the playoffs and some potential interesting matchups. Instead of meeting in the Eastern Conference final, Colorado and San Jose would meet for the opportunity to play either Supporter’s Shield winner Los Angeles or Eastern Conference champion New York in the conference semi-finals. </span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> Also guaranteed home playoff games, Columbus and Kansas City would face off as the two and three seeds in the east as well as Real Salt Lake and FC Dallas would in the west. </span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> With over half the teams in the league making the playoffs, this format will still not give the playoffs or the MLS Cup the credibility that the fans would like it to have. Two more teams are scheduled to join the league over the next two years which will obviously make it more difficult, but the league has said that it will leave the door open to future playoff format changes. </span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> <em>Heath Harshman is a sophomore Communication major at Washington State University in Pullman, WA. Heath has a weekly political-media radio show Thursdays from 11a.m.-12p.m. on KUGR.org. He hopes to have a career in public relations and is currently the media relations coordinator of minor league baseball’s Tri-City Dust Devils. Follow Heath on twitter </em></span></span><a href="http://twitter.com/#%21/HeathHarshman" target="_blank"><em><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">@heathharshman</span></em></a><em><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> or add him on </span></span></em><a href="http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1191161409" target="_blank"><em><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">facebook</span></em></a><em><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">. Thoughts or comments can be sent to Heath at heath_harshman@yahoo.com</span></em></p>
Heath Harshman
2011-02-28T06:12:00Z
Josh's Bundesliga Recap - Matchday 24
Josh Morris
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Joshs-Bundesliga-Recap---Matchday-24/486259517841021272.html
2011-02-28T05:39:00Z
2011-02-28T05:39:00Z
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em>Bundesliga Matchday 24</em></span></p>
<p><strong>FC Bayern München v. Borussia Dortmund 1:3 (1:2)</strong></p>
<p><strong>Goal Scorers: FCB – Gustavo 16’; BVB – Barrios 9’, Sahin 18’, Hummels 60’</strong></p>
<p>Allianz Arena – 69,000</p>
<p>Sir Alex Ferguson is not the only one who plays mind games; FCB president, Uli Hoeness, said this week concerning Dortmund, "(Against Dortmund), I expect a clear victory. I can totally rule out a draw or a defeat. We are the better team and Dortmund have no chance against us, and that is that. We will win by two goals.” This was the game of the weekend. The first half was frenetic; end to end action with three goals within ten minutes. In the second half, Bayern came out a little more cautious. They simply could not build momentum. Dortmund did not have this problem, and this is the compelling aspect of Dortmund. They never look intimidated by their opponents, and you get the sense that BVB have the confidence to play their game regardless of the opposition. Sahin is the player of the season in the Bundesliga (as<em>Kicker </em>Magazine attests), and played a more critical role for BVB than Schweinsteiger did for FCB (A player that I feel is up among the world’s best at his position). Dortmund extended their lead to two goals (maybe that is what Hoeness meant??) by a thundering header after an hour played. That same hesitancy the Bavarians began the second half with they finished with.</p>
<p>* This was Dortmund’s first win in Munich in 20 years. In his post match interview Dortmund coach Jürgen Klopp noted that this would mean most of Dortmund’s players were still breast-feeding when Dortmund last won in Munich.</p>
<p>* Dortmund, plain and simple, played like champions today, and find themselves 16 points ahead of last year’s champion Bayern, who drop to fourth after Hannover’s last minute win.</p>
<p><strong><br />Werder Bremen v. Bayer 04 Leverkusen 2:2 (0:1)</strong></p>
<p><strong>Goal Scorers: Bremen – Kießling (OG) 82’ Prodl 90’; Leverkusen - Derdiyok 42’, Rolfes 67’</strong></p>
<p>Weserstadion – 37,500</p>
<p>Such is Bremen’s luck that they found themselves down one nil at half. Tim Borowski should have put the hosts ahead early but scuffed a shot at Rene Adler’s net. He would later come off the pitch for a suspected concussion. For Bayer, on the other hand, there were flashes of brilliance in the first half with only one goal to show for it. Derdiyok’s header on 42 minutes was powerful and maybe highlighted more of Bremen’s shambolic defense. That shambolic defense was on display again when a failure to clear the ball fumbled to the captain, Rolfes, who clinically put the ball away. Big Impact himself, Michael Ballack, came on to finish the remaining twenty minutes. The Bremen captain, Mertesacker, made up for a little bit of his shocking defense by forcing an own goal by Kießling which led to Bremen’s first goal. The drama was far from ever. Bremen scored at the death to earn a draw.</p>
<p> <br /><strong>FC Schalke 04 v. 1. FC Nürnberg 1:1 (0:1)</strong></p>
<p><strong>Goal Scorers: Schalke – Raul 52’; Nürnberg – Hegeler 37’</strong></p>
<p>Veltins Arena – 61,431</p>
<p>This game highlighted the formation trend as of late – a solid emphasis on holding midfielders with a single striker up top. Schalke played Raul off the back of Huntelaar, and it looked cohesive at times. Nürnberg have the exciting Ekici who controls the middle of the park for Der Club. Both sides registered 16 shots on goal, and Schalke will wish they had converted more of their 56.2% possession into more goals.</p>
<p><br /><strong>1899 Hoffenheim v. 1. FSV Mainz 1:2 (0:1)</strong></p>
<p><strong>Goal Scorers: Hoffenheim – Alaba 83’; Mainz – Ivanschitz 23’, Soto 86’</strong></p>
<p>Rhein Neckar Arena – 29,000</p>
<p>Unlike the above review, this match was more free-flowing with the 4-3-3 as the formation of choice. Hoffenheim were close to 60% possession on the day, but only registering 13 shots. Hoffenheim thought they could leave with a draw after Alaba drew Hoffenheim level on 83 minutes, but Soto broke the hearts at the Rhein Neckar with a go ahead goal at the death. It Is good to see Mainz playing well again. They are an exciting side to watch.</p>
<p><br /><strong>FC Köln v. Freiburg 1:0 (0:0)</strong></p>
<p><strong>Goal Scorers: Köln – Podolski 88’</strong></p>
<p>Rheinenergie Stadium – 45,500</p>
<p>A drab 0-0 was rescued by “prinz Poldi” … </p>
<p>There really was not much else to this game, well 5 yellow cards at least kept the referee busy (3 for Freiburg and 2 for <em>Die Geißböcke </em>(The Billy Goats)).</p>
<p><br /><strong>FC Kaiserslautern v. Hamburger SV 1:1 (1:0)</strong></p>
<p><strong>Goal Scorers: Kaiserslautern – Hlousek 18’; HSV – Jansen 54’</strong></p>
<p>Fritz-Walter-Stadium – 46,000</p>
<p>A hard fought draw would be enough for these two clubs fighting at different ends of the table: HSV seeking to cement a European place while Kaiserslautern just want to stay in the top division. This was actually a pretty exciting encounter, if you like games with grit and tough tackles. The Brazilian Zé Roberto is still commanding on the pitch with 48/59 pass completion. HSV are finally starting to click and look like the typical HSV – flirt with success but end up failing.</p>
<p><br /><strong>St. Pauli v. Hannover 96 0:1 (0:0)</strong></p>
<p><strong>Goal Scorers: Hannover – Schulz 89’</strong></p>
<p>Millerntor Stadium – 24, 487</p>
<p>St. Pauli just could not hold on to the draw. Hannover continues their surprise season with a late winner in the port city. This match had the typical derby environment where tackles were more prevalent than shots on target (St. Pauli with 7, and the 96ers with 8). St. Pauli simply didn’t attack – only registering 14 crosses from open play (compared to 22 for Hannover). This snaps a run of decent form for St. Pauli (only their second loss of 2011), while Hannover remain four games undefeated.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Eintracht Frankfurt v. VfB Stuttgart 0:2 (0:0)</strong></p>
<p><strong>Goal Scorers: VfB – Harink 64’, Hajnal 68’</strong></p>
<p>Commerzbank Arena – 47,400</p>
<p>As February comes to a close, Frankfurt has failed to register a win (let alone a goal) in 2011. Their slide down the table continued on Sunday. VfB, another relegation fighter, turned a game in which they were beaten in every attacking category (Eintracht had 18 goal attempts while VfB had only 7; ), and down to ten men after Delpierre’s 15<sup>th</sup> minute red card, and scored twice within four minutes to put this game to bed.</p>
<p><br /><strong>VfL Wolfsburg v. Borussia Mönchengladbach 2:1 (2:0)</strong></p>
<p><strong>Goal Scorers: VfL – Diego 36’, 45+1’; gladbach – Daems 74’(PK)</strong></p>
<p>Volkswagen Arena – 28,763</p>
<p>Relegation six pointer?! Such is the season VfL have had. However, on this night VfL looked decent. Diego had a chance to put his side up with a penalty after 28 minutes – but he missed (actually, his penalty … just… landed...). He regained his composure and scored twice before the break. Mönchengladbach brought the game within one, with Daems showing Diego how to make a penalty. Reus could have leveled on two separate occasions but saw his attempts go wide. </p>
<p> <br /><em><strong>Bundesliga Table after Matchday 24</strong></em></p>
<table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0">
<thead>
<tr>
<td>
<p><strong>Rank</strong></p>
</td>
<td> </td>
<td>
<p><strong>Club</strong></p>
</td>
<td>
<p><strong>Matches</strong></p>
</td>
<td>
<p><strong>Wins</strong></p>
</td>
<td>
<p><strong>Draws</strong></p>
</td>
<td>
<p><strong>Losses</strong></p>
</td>
<td>
<p><strong>Goals</strong></p>
</td>
<td>
<p><strong>GD</strong></p>
</td>
<td>
<p><strong>PTS</strong></p>
</td>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<p>1</p>
</td>
<td>
<p> </p>
</td>
<td>
<p>Borussia Dortmund</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>24</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>18</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>4</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>2</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>52:14</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>+38</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>58</p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p>2</p>
</td>
<td>
<p> </p>
</td>
<td>
<p>Bayer 04 Leverkusen</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>24</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>13</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>7</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>4</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>50:34</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>+16</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>46</p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p>3</p>
</td>
<td>
<p> </p>
</td>
<td>
<p>Hannover 96</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>24</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>14</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>2</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>8</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>34:31</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>+3</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>44</p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p>4</p>
</td>
<td>
<p> </p>
</td>
<td>
<p>FC Bayern München</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>24</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>12</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>6</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>6</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>50:30</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>+20</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>42</p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p>5</p>
</td>
<td>
<p> </p>
</td>
<td>
<p>1. FSV Mainz 05</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>24</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>13</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>1</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>10</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>37:30</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>+7</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>40</p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p>6</p>
</td>
<td>
<p> </p>
</td>
<td>
<p>Hamburger SV</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>24</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>11</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>4</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>9</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>35:32</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>+3</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>37</p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p>7</p>
</td>
<td>
<p> </p>
</td>
<td>
<p>SC Freiburg</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>24</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>11</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>4</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>9</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>31:31</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>0</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>37</p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p>8</p>
</td>
<td>
<p> </p>
</td>
<td>
<p>1. FC Nürnberg</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>24</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>10</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>6</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>8</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>34:32</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>+2</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>36</p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p>9</p>
</td>
<td>
<p> </p>
</td>
<td>
<p>1899 Hoffenheim</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>24</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>8</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>9</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>7</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>41:35</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>+6</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>33</p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p>10</p>
</td>
<td>
<p> </p>
</td>
<td>
<p>FC Schalke 04</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>24</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>8</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>6</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>10</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>29:29</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>0</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>30</p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p>11</p>
</td>
<td>
<p> </p>
</td>
<td>
<p>1. FC Köln</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>24</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>8</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>5</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>11</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>31:42</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>-11</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>29</p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p>12</p>
</td>
<td>
<p> </p>
</td>
<td>
<p>FC St. Pauli</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>24</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>8</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>4</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>12</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>27:38</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>-11</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>28</p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p>13</p>
</td>
<td>
<p> </p>
</td>
<td>
<p>Eintracht Frankfurt</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>24</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>8</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>3</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>13</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>24:34</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>-10</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>27</p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p>14</p>
</td>
<td>
<p> </p>
</td>
<td>
<p>VfL Wolfsburg</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>24</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>6</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>8</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>10</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>29:34</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>-5</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>26</p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p>15</p>
</td>
<td>
<p> </p>
</td>
<td>
<p>SV Werder Bremen</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>24</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>6</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>7</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>11</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>30:50</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>-20</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>25</p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p>16</p>
</td>
<td>
<p> </p>
</td>
<td>
<p>1. FC Kaiserslautern</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>24</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>6</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>6</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>12</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>33:42</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>-9</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>24</p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p>17</p>
</td>
<td>
<p> </p>
</td>
<td>
<p>VfB Stuttgart</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>24</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>6</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>4</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>14</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>42:47</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>-5</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>22</p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p>18</p>
</td>
<td>
<p> </p>
</td>
<td>
<p>Borussia M'gladbach</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>24</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>5</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>4</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>15</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>35:59</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>-24</p>
</td>
<td>
<p>19</p>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p> </p>
<p><strong><em><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><br /></span></em></strong></p>
Josh Morris
2011-02-28T05:39:00Z
Mehdi's ECL Recap Day 4
Mehdi
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Mehdis-ECL-Recap-Day-4/-341433630350716501.html
2011-02-23T23:07:00Z
2011-02-23T23:07:00Z
<em><strong><br />23 February 2011</strong></em><br /> <br /> <strong>MARSEILLE</strong> 0<br /> <strong>MANCHESTER UNITED</strong> 0<br /> <br /> The visitors should have been awarded a penalty when notorious cheat and former red Heinze handled a Fletcher cross.<br /> <br /> <strong>Attendance</strong>: 60,031<br /> <strong>Assists</strong>: n/a<br /> <br /> <br /> <strong>INTER</strong> 0<br /> <strong>BAYERN</strong> 1 (Gomez 90)<br /> <br /> Eto'o went down in the box under a clumsy Tymoschuk challenge but the ref, Kassai, ignored appeals for a penalty. Eto'o played a one-two with Maicon as he ran in from the right, wrestled free of Badstuber and laid the ball to Cambiasso who shot at Kraft from two yards out. Ribery headed a Robben cross against the bar, it was his only positive contribution of the night, absolute rubbish. Chivu hit a high ball into the Bayern box, Lucio centred, Eto'o touched the ball away from a defender and shot on the turn, drawing a marvellous point blank save from Kraft.<br /> <br /> Despite the lack of goals an entertaining first half was followed by a thrilling second. Schweinsteiger ran at Maicon and Zanetti, pirouetted away from them then back healed to Ribery, FANTASTIC skill, Muller instantly laid off Ribery's pass, Robben skipped past Ranocchia's sliding tackle, away from Chivu then hammered a right foot shot off the outside of a post. Minutes later Eto'o took a Maicon cross on his chest, dribbled past Tymoschuk and volleyed a shot at Kraft, the young German couldn't hold the ball, Cambiasso had the goal at his mercy but ballooned over the bar. Motta headed a corner at Kraft, who instinctively got his hands up and parried. A Sneijder free kick fell to Eto'o and his deflected shot agonisingly bounced wide of the right post. In the 89th minute Robben unloaded with a shot from 25 yards out, Julio Cesar spilled the ball and Gomez pounced, 0-1.<br /> <br /> Game of the season. Bayern's approach play was fabulous. They outplayed their hosts but the European Champions had the best chances. 90 minutes of non stop action. With Rabbit Killer Leonardo in charge and having given up an away goal Inter's reign ends next month.<br /> <br /> <strong>Attendance</strong>: 80,000<br /> <strong>Assist</strong>: n/a<br /><br /><em>More of Mehdi's world can be found on his site </em><a title="soccer-europe.com" href="/soccer-europe.com"></a><a title="soccer-europe.com" href="http://soccer-europe.com/" target="_blank">http://soccer-europe.com/#</a><br /><em>Follow him on Twitter </em><a title="@calcioeurope" href="http://twitter.com/calcioeurope" target="_blank">http://twitter.com/calcioeurope</a>
Mehdi
2011-02-23T23:07:00Z
Adam's FA Cup Round Up
Adam Johnson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Adams-FA-Cup-Round-Up/-599977362167433374.html
2011-02-23T16:11:00Z
2011-02-23T16:11:00Z
<p>No, there were no any Premier League games this past weekend due to the F.A. Cup but that doesn’t mean there weren’t Prem. Clubs playing and sometimes playing each other. Here is a quick rundown of what happened in the F.A. Cup from the weekend.</p>
<p>Before the weekend even started we had a mid week game last Wednesday with Bolton beating 1-0 on an Ivan Klasnic 65’ goal which set up Sunday’s 5<sup>th</sup> round match against Fulham. On Saturday, we had a mix of 4<sup>th</sup> round replays and 5<sup>th</sup> round ties. First…</p>
<p><strong>Chelsea 1-1 Everton AET (Everton advance 4-3 on penalty shootout)</strong></p>
<p>The game went 0-0 after 90 minutes and it was finally Frank Lampard who broke the dead lock with his 104’ minute goal. It would not be the winner, however. Leighton Baines scored in the 118’ minute to even the score and the tie would go down to penalties, which is not a good omen for Chelsea. In the battle of the Blues it was Everton who knocked Chelsea out to advance to the 5<sup>th</sup> round.</p>
<p><strong>Birmingham 3-0 Sheffield Wednesday</strong></p>
<p>This wasn’t the sexiest match-up of the weekend but Birmingham continued their good Cup form this season with a 3-0 over Wednesday. Jean Beausejour, Obafemi Martins, and David Murphy were the scorers for Birmingham.</p>
<p><strong>Stoke City 3-0 Brighton</strong></p>
<p>I’m guessing this didn’t draw a huge rating here in the United States, or anywhere really, but it did happen and Carew, Walters, and Shawcross all scored in the first half to lock up the win.</p>
<p><strong>Manchester United 1-0 Crawley Town</strong></p>
<p>This was probably the most lopsided draw of the F.A. Cup so far but Crawley Town held their ground. The minnows outshot United 8-6 (both clubs had 3 each on goal) and also had 53% of the possession. Wes Brown won it on a header in the 28’ minute. Crawley had a chance late when Richard Brodie headed a shot into the crossbar, but it just wasn’t meant to be for the tiny club.</p>
<p>We had three games on Sunday with one of them being a 4<sup>th</sup> round replay, Man City v. Notts County, and the two other being 5<sup>th</sup> round ties.</p>
<p><strong>Manchester City 5-0 Notts County</strong></p>
<p>City simply brushed aside Notts County with a 5-0 thrashing thanks to two goals from Patrick Vieira, and one each from Carlos Tevez, Edin Dzeko, and Micah Richards.</p>
<p><strong>Fulham 0-1 Bolton</strong></p>
<p>Bolton again won on an Ivan Klasnic first half goal. This time it was to take the 5<sup>th</sup> round tie at Fulham.</p>
<p><strong>Leyton Orient 1-1 Arsenal</strong></p>
<p>This was another lopsided match-up in which the smaller team really showed well. Arsenal took the lead on a headed goal by Tomas Rosicky in the 53' minute. The Gunners looked like they would hold on until the home side got an unlikely equalizer from Jonathan Tehoue in the 89’ minute. This forces a 5<sup>th</sup> round replay that Arsenal really could have done without.</p>
<p>There was just one game on Monday and it was another 5<sup>th</sup> round match.</p>
<p><strong>West Ham 5-1 Burnley</strong></p>
<p>It has been a poor Prem. season for West Ham but this was a nice win for them over Burnley at home. They took a 4-0 lead thanks to a Thomas Hitzlsperger goal, then two from Carlton Cole, and another from Winston Reid. Burnley got one back when Jay Rodriguez scored but Fred Sears kept the margin at four when he scored a 90’ minute goal to cap off a great night for the Hammers.</p>
<p>After one more 5<sup>th</sup> round replay (Arsenal v. Leyton Orient) and two more 5<sup>th</sup> round ties (Man City v. Aston Villa and Everton v. Reading) are completed on March 1<sup>st</sup> and 2<sup>nd</sup>, we will then be on to the quarter finals where five clubs are already waiting. We will be back to Premier League action this coming weekend.</p>
Adam Johnson
2011-02-23T16:11:00Z
Mehdi's ECL Recap Day 3
Mehdi
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Mehdis-ECL-Recap-Day-3/879492696102873025.html
2011-02-23T16:10:00Z
2011-02-23T16:10:00Z
<em><strong>22 February 2011</strong></em><br /><br /><strong>COPENHAGEN</strong> 0<br /><strong>CHELSEA</strong> 2 (Anelka 17, Anelka 54)<br /><br />Anelka put paid to near universal hopes for an upset on 17 minutes. Chelsea reject Gronkjaer overhit an un-necessary back pass on the half way line, Anelka ran into the box and fired into the net before Antonsson could make a challenge. Lampard spun onto an Essien pass, dropped a ball over Anelka's shoulder and he pulled clear of his marker before angling a shot into the bottom left corner.<br /><br /><strong>Attendance</strong>: 36,713<br /><strong>Assists</strong>: n/a, Lampard<br /><br /><br /><strong>LYON</strong> 1 (Gomis 83)<br /><strong>REAL MADRID</strong> 1 (Benzema 65)<br /><br />Lyon should have taken the lead on the half hour mark. They launched a rapier counter attack when defending a Real Madrid corner, Real actually did well to get men back in numbers but Casillas dropped Bastos' cross, he quickly scrambled to parry from Gomis as he took aim at an empty net. Terrific save. Real were much improved in the second half. Ronaldo crashed a free kick off the right post and within a minute Ramos headed a corner against the crossbar. Real Madrid should have been awarded a penalty when Gourcuff used an arm to charge down a Ronaldo free kick. Benzema scored within 20 seconds of replacing Adebayor. Di Maria and Benzema caught Toulalan dithering on the ball, Di Maria passed to Ronaldo, he played square to Benzema and he dribbled wide of his former team-mates before nutmegging Lloris. Nothing happened until the equaliser. Gourcuff smacked a free kick into Ronaldo, Cris got above Xabi Alonso to flick on the deflected cross and Gomis tapped wide of Casillas amid appeals for offside, he wasn't.<br /><br />Attendance: 40,299<br /><br /><em>Assists: Ronaldo, Cris</em>
Mehdi
2011-02-23T16:10:00Z
Vancouver Whitecaps Season Preview
Heath Harshman
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Vancouver-Whitecaps-Season-Preview/210307732177061367.html
2011-02-23T15:37:00Z
2011-02-23T15:37:00Z
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: small;">The Vancouver Whitecaps, newcomers to the MLS, are finally back where they feel they belong, the top level of American club soccer. With five players from last season’s squad, five players with previous MLS experience and one member of the 2010 United States World Cup squad, the Whitecaps are hoping to show the rest of the MLS that they, in fact, do belong. </span></span>
<p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: small;">The Whitecaps will be led by former Watford FC and United States national team defender Jay Demerit. The 31-year-old has returned to the U.S. after his contract with Watford in England expired. Demerit spent six years in Watford where he helped them reach the Premier League in the 2006-07, although they were relegated after that one season. He will captain the Whitecaps with leadership help from other league veterans in the squad such as midfielder John Thorrington and goalkeeper Joe Cannon. </span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: small;">Thorrington and Cannon are, along with Demerit, by far the most experienced players on the team. These three will have to step up and take the mantle from the start in order for Vancouver to be competitive throughout the season in a tough Western Conference. They seem to be taking a note from fellow northwest team Seattle, who built their team much the same way; signing veteran players such as Kasey Keller, Peter Vagenas and Tyrone Marshall for their inaugural season. </span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: small;">Those three are currently joined by midfielders Atiba Harris and Shea Salinas and defender Jonathan Leathers as players on the roster with previous MLS experience. These six players will give the Whitecaps a solid structure to their everyday regular season lineup and enough experienced players to help many of the less experienced players throughout the season.</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: small;">These veterans will be joined by several recognizable faces to Vancouver fans. Goalkeeper Jay Nolly, defenders Philippe Davis, Greg Janicki and Wes Knight and midfielder Terry Dunfield all return to the Whitecaps as members of last season’s USSF D-2 team. Last season’s Vancouver team finished fifth out of twelve teams in the regular season table and lost to the Puerto Rico Islanders in extra-time of the semi-finals of the playoffs. </span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: small;">A bittersweet addition to the Whitecaps came in the form of number one overall MLS SuperDraft pick Omar Salgado. The 17-year-old was a member of the U.S. U-20 National Team after accepting a call up last season. Salgado, a native of El Paso, Texas, joined Mexican Club Deportivo Guadalajara at age 15 and spent time with their reserves and U-17 squad. While all this success at a young age is evidence enough of his large potential, Vancouver won’t be able to unleash that potential in their colors for the vast majority of the season.</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: small;">Salgado, arguably the Whitecaps’ most notable acquisition, according to a FIFA rule, is not allowed to play in any other country’s club’s first team than one in his own until he is 18 years old. Since the young American’s new team is located in Canada, he is unavailable until his 18</span></span><sup><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: small;">th</span></span></sup><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: small;"> birthday on September 10</span></span><sup><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: small;">th</span></span></sup><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: small;">. Until then he will continue to play for the U.S. U-20 squad. He’s currently training with the Whitecaps during the preseason and has scored once in their six matches. Vancouver will be hoping to hang on to him for more than just this season, with rumored interest from big name clubs such as Arsenal. </span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: small;">The absence of Salgado leaves an obvious hole for Vancouver: attack. Other than Salgado, the Whitecaps list just one forward on their roster, former FC Dallas midfielder/forward Atiba Harris. The slim options up front leave an open door to the six listed forwards attending preseason camp with the team. Forwards Long Tan and Camilo da Silva Sanvezzo, who played in the USSF D-2 last season, are two of the six attending camp and have both scored once this preseason. </span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: small;">The Whitecaps start the regular season with five of their first seven matches at home, an advantage they will have to take in order to be challenging for a playoff spot later in the season. Also, in those seven games just one, the last match of the seven against FC Dallas, is against a team that made the MLS playoffs last season. How Vancouver starts the season and the quickness with which they can gel will be one of the larger deciding factors in how their season goes. A good start could signal a Sounders-esque playoff appearance while a rocky one could see them be this season’s version of the 2010 Philadelphia Union. </span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: small;">The Whitecaps will also be led by fourth-year head coach Teitur Thordarson. Thordarson has been in charge of Vancouver since December of 2007 after managing in various leagues throughout Europe for the previous 20 years. He led the Whitecaps to the 2008 USL First Division title in his second year at the helm. </span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: small;">The league and their fans will learn a lot about the Whitecaps early in the season. Whether or not their veterans and newcomers can gel quickly and overcome their lack of depth in attack will also be large factors in the overall success of Vancouver in their expansion season. Whether or not those things happen only time will tell, but the MLS will learn what northwest soccer followers already know; that the supporters and atmosphere in Vancouver rivals any others in the country. </span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: small;"><em>Heath Harshman is a sophomore Communication major at Washington State University in Pullman, WA. Heath has a weekly political-media radio show Thursdays from 11a.m.-12p.m. on KUGR.org. He hopes to have a career in public relations and is currently the media relations coordinator of minor league baseball’s Tri-City Dust Devils. Follow Heath on twitter <a href="http://twitter.com/#%21/HeathHarshman" target="_blank">@heathharshman</a></em></span></span> <span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: small;"><em>or add him on <a href="http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1191161409" target="_blank">facebook</a>. Thoughts or comments can be sent to Heath at heath_harshman@yahoo.com</em></span></span></p>
Heath Harshman
2011-02-23T15:37:00Z
Will Carroll guide Liverpool to new golden era?
Guest Blogger
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Will-Carroll-guide-Liverpool-to-new-golden-era/-926479826834707111.html
2011-02-23T15:23:00Z
2011-02-23T15:23:00Z
Guest Blogger<br /><br /><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">After a whirlwind season that has seen Andy Carroll go from being a pretty decent player to a man who is considered to be a key part in the England national team's attempts to rebuild and begin to challenge once again at the top level of international football, the question that now has to be asked is whether Carroll can be the man who turns Liverpool into the top team in England.</span>
<p><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">Although Carroll cannot be blamed for the obscene price that was eventually paid to transfer his services from Newcastle United to Liverpool, the fact is that it is a price tag that he now very much has to live with and live up to. Should he fail to do so, then he knows that he will have been seen as yet another false dawn for the Merseyside outfit that has endured significantly more pain than joy in recent years. Right now, most people make <strong><a title="Liverpool betting tips" href="http://www.betfairfootball.com/premier-league/liverpool/" target="_blank">Liverpool betting tips</a></strong> to finish in the top half, but they could still make the top four but Carroll will have to get the goals for them.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">However, while this pressure is bound to have some impact on the young striker, the fact of the matter is that he has already shown in his short career so far that he is more than capable of scoring goals and creating huge problems for defenders in the Premier League, something that means he definitely has the potential to become as big a hero at Anfield as the man he replaced, Fernando Torres. The <strong><a title="Betting Odds" href="http://www.betfairfootball.com/" target="_blank">football betting odds</a> </strong>suggest he has every chance of being top English scorer next season.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">Despite this, his temperament has already been called into question both on and off the pitch this season, and his new manager will be more than aware that Carroll will need to show that he has both the intelligence and the composure to turn his undoubted potential into performances that can bring both himself and his new club trophies.</span></p>
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman,serif;"></span>
Guest Blogger
2011-02-23T15:23:00Z
Josh's Bundesliga Recap
Josh Morris
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Joshs-Bundesliga-Recap/613931704375361665.html
2011-02-21T05:10:00Z
2011-02-21T05:10:00Z
<p><em><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Bundesliga Matchday 23</strong></span></em></p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Borussia Dortmund v. FC St. Pauli 2:0 (1:0)</strong></span></p>
<p><strong>Goal Scorers: Dortmund – Barrios 39’, Gunesch (OG) 49’</strong></p>
<p><strong>Signal Iduna Park – 80,720</strong></p>
<p>The German press was talking panic – Dortmund has drawn 3/5 matches this calendar year (drawn, not lost!). On the field, however, Dortmund’s young guns looked comfortable. St. Pauli continued their hard work that was shown in the midweek <em>Stadtderby</em>. St. Pauli played with grit, determination, and passion, and honestly if they were playing anybody else besides the league leaders (champions) they would have won; Dortmund simply has too many attacking threats. Barrios really is a constant threat, and played a vital role in both BVB goals (scored on 39’ and his shot led to the OG on 49’). After scoring 5 minutes into the second half the game was as good as over; St. Pauli with only one chance to write about.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>FC Nürnberg v. Eintracht Frankfurt 3:0 (0:0)</strong></span></p>
<p><strong>Goal Scorers: Nürnberg – Schieber 67’, Mak 87’, Cohen 90’</strong></p>
<p><strong>EasyCredit-Stadion – 40,853</strong></p>
<p>Frankfurt needed to make a statement and end the poor form they have displayed in 2011. However, Nürnberg did not receive this statement. Nürnberg’s man of the moment, Schieber, struck a fantastic free kick on 67 minutes. Frankfurt had a mountain to climb for the remaining twenty minutes, but it always seemed that Nürnberg would score again rather than Frankfurt equalizing. With 19 minutes remaining, Skibbe went more offensive with a double substitution (Fenin for the captain Ochs and the Greek Amanatidis for Altintop), but it did not matter in the end. Fenin was a promising addition to the lineup, and looked threatening. However, Frankfurt continues to struggle on the field. No goals in 2011. Der Club, on the other hand, walk away beaming with confidence. Mak’s goal was one of grit and determination that matched his play. Cohen’s goal was simply the icing on the cake. Nürnberg won the midfield battle and tackles were fierce and passionate. This was Nürnberg’s fourth consecutive win in the Bundesliga.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>FSV Mainz 05 v. FC Bayern München 1:3 (0:1)</strong></span></p>
<p><strong>Goal Scorers: Mainz – Allagui 84’; FCB – Schweinsteiger 9’, Müller 50’, Gomez 77’</strong></p>
<p><strong>Stadion am Bruchweg – 20,300</strong></p>
<p>FCB are starting to pick up that swagger that Bundesliga fans either love or hate. A formidable 4-2-3-1 was employed again this week by Louis Van Gaal, having <em>Robbery</em> (Robben + Ribéry) on the wings provides constant width with the threat of them cutting in from either side. Gomez also continues his goal-scoring prowess. Have Thomas Tuchel’s Mainz been found out, or has a run of bad luck crippled them? By the time Allagui scored on 84 minutes this game was in the bag. The Bruchweg Boys (Mainz) have lost that swagger that FCB have picked up. The possession stats go to Bayern at 55.8%. A frustrating stat for Tuchel is that Mainz registered 18 shots (compared to FCB’s 19). And on top of that Mainz completed 76% of their passing. The stats don’t add up for Tuchel and Mainz.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>1899 Hoffenheim v. 1. FC Köln 1:1 (0:0)</strong></span></p>
<p><strong>Goal Scorers: Hoffenheim – Novakovic 48’ (OG); Köln – Mohammad 69’</strong></p>
<p><strong>Rhein-Neckar-Arena – 30,000</strong></p>
<p>This was only the 6<sup>th</sup> point Köln has picked up away from home all season, and should feel lucky to have earned it. Hoffenheim play attractive football even if sometimes it lacked direction. A 4-3-3 makes sense for Hoffenheim. After losing Ba and Gustavo in the transfer window, Hoffenheim seem to be missing that spark that Gustavo brought and that speed and pace that Ba brought (Warren Barton should be happy he is at West Ham now for easy commentary over at Fox Soccer Matchday). For Hoffenheim to put up 60% possession and 18 shots on goal only to leave with a point is criminal. Further, Hoffenheim completed 75% of their passing with Alaba completing 51/62 passes.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>SC Freiburg v. VfL Wolfsburg 2:1 (1:1)</strong></span></p>
<p><strong>Goal Scorers: Freiburg – Reisinger 43’, Cisse 69’; Wolfsburg – Helmes 28’</strong></p>
<p><strong>Badenova-Stadion – 21,000</strong></p>
<p>A couple of seasons ago, Bayer Leverkusen had a young striker on their hands who was a constant threat. However, he got injured, and as the story goes, had a tough time finding his place in the Leverkusen side. The story continued in January when this German international, Patrick Helmes, left for Wolfsburg. Immediately he made an impact – he was involved in the infamous missed penalty by Diego (he was casually brushed aside in order for the Brazilian to slam the cross bar)! Against Freiburg he was the single goal scorer and couldn’t overshadow a Wolfsburg side that look uninterested. Wolfsburg are becoming a team that can dominate every <em>important </em>statistical category but still lose and somehow look uninterested. The relegation dogfight is being staged in a Volkswagen (what is it about teams who win the Bundesliga who aren’t named Bayern. 2003/2004 Werder, 2006/7 Stuttgart, 2008/9 Wolfsburg…). Too good to go down? No way – although they do have Tuncay, and we know he can do it on a “cold Tuesday at Stoke”…</p>
<p> </p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Hannover 96 v. 1. FC Kaiserslautern 3:0 (2:0)</strong></span></p>
<p><strong>Goal Scorers: Hannover – Schlaudraff 17’, 57’ Abdellaoue 45”</strong></p>
<p><strong>AWD Arena – 37,000</strong></p>
<p>Hannover could have been in third at the end of the day (read that statement again). Hannover is legitimately entertaining. I always enjoyed watching Mirko Slomka manage Schalke a few seasons back, and he is bringing that same attacking <em>flair</em> to match the spirit of the 96ers. Kaiserslautern is stuck at the wrong end of the table with five losses from six. All in all this was a pretty boring and straightforward 3-0 win for Hannover, nothing to write home about.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Hamburger SV v. SV Werder Bremen 4:0 (1:0)</strong></span></p>
<p><strong>Goal Scorers: HSV – Petric 42’, Guerrero 64’, 79’, Ben-Hatira 87’</strong></p>
<p><strong>HSH Nordbank Arena – 54,000</strong></p>
<p>For me, this northern German derby was the pick of the litter. Both teams are punching below expectations (especially Werder). One might see the score and think Werder are continuing to struggle, but in fact they played well… until halftime… Werder came out after halftime and handed HSV the three points. The ever reliable, Per Mertesacker, was at fault for two of HSV’s second half goals. At the end of the day Bremen find themselves a point from the bottom three while HSV are inching closer to cementing a European spot.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Bayer 04 Leverkusen v. VfB Stuttgart 4:2 (2:1)</strong></span></p>
<p><strong>Goal Scorers: Leverkusen – Kießling (Kiessling) 6’, 90’, Castro 41’, Reinartz 81’; VfB – Harnik 16’, Kuzmanovic 52’</strong></p>
<p><strong>BayArena – 28,851</strong></p>
<p>Both of these teams found themselves in midweek Europa League fixtures. Bayer looked convincing with a 4-0 win while VfB will feel disappointed losing a lead with an eventual defeat to Benfica (2:1). Here is another fun fact, Leverkusen has won more Bundesliga matches against Stuttgart than any other team (25), and Sunday made 26. For a team to be struggling in the table, like VfB, this was an enthralling encounter. The 4-2-3-1 was in full effect in this match; both teams set up in this formation, but it really fits Bayer’s style. This season I have been a big fan of Sidney Sam, Renato Augusto, and Simon Rolfes, they are the lynchpins for this Bayer squad. VfB, on the other hand, are a roller coaster side. They can look destined for relegation one week and absolutely provide their fans with fighting grit the next. This match was a battle. Leverkusen controlled the midfield battle. Each time Bayer would go up, VfB would come back and equalize but in the end Kiessling was too much to handle.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Borussia M'gladbach v. FC Schalke 04 2:1 (2:1)</strong></span></p>
<p><strong>Goal Scorers: Gladbach – Reus 12’, Idrissou 23’; Schalke – Kluge 2’</strong></p>
<p><strong>Stadion im Borussia-Park – 51,592</strong></p>
<p>Schalke, coming off the back of an impressive draw against Valencia in the Champions League, find themselves on a typical Schalke high (doing decent in Europe while struggling for consistency in the league) against a team who just find it hard to get ahead. Schalke did it again, looked convincing against Valencia and look like a junior side in the league. They did get off to the best possible start with a goal after two minutes, but succumbed to a Gladbach side loving the new manager bounce. This was Borussia’s first home win of the season (yes, of the season!).</p>
<br />
Josh Morris
2011-02-21T05:10:00Z
Mehdi's Serie A Round 26 Recap
Mehdi
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Mehdis-Serie-A-Round-26-Recap/-789181836336291152.html
2011-02-21T00:08:00Z
2011-02-21T00:08:00Z
<em><strong>20 February 2011</strong></em><br /> <br /> <strong>LECCE</strong> 2 (Mesbah 32, Bertolacci 48)<br /> <strong>JUVENTUS</strong> 0<br /> <br /> Juve were always facing an uphill task after a bonehead move by Buffon on 12 minutes saw them reduced to 10 men. He made an excellent save from Di Michele as the striker ran through on goal (the second decent chance Lecce had created) unfortunately it was outside of the box and, unlike in Spain, when a top team gets a 'keeper sent off early, they lose. Krasic made way for Storari, while Toni stayed on. Ok. Explain that one to me? Sorensen botched an onside trap and ran with Mesbah as his team-mates stood in a line, he took the ball on his chest before nutmegging Storari in goal. Di Michele got above Barzagli to head down a cross and 20 year old midfielder Bertolacci smashed the ball in at the back post to score his first ever Serie A goal. He's on loan from Roma. Vives tripped Chiellini to earn a second yellow.<br /><br /> <br /> <strong>Attendance</strong>: 20,380<br /> <strong>Red Card</strong>: Buffon 12 (Juventus) , Vives 69 (Palermo)<br /> <strong>Assists</strong>: Munari, Di Michele<br /> <br /> <br /> <strong>CHIEVO</strong> 1 (Fernandes 61)<br /> <strong>MILAN</strong> 2 (Robinho 25, Pato 82)<br /> <br /> Robinho intercepted a poor defensive header and passed the ball to Cassano, he overhit a first time cross, Ibrahimovic headed down, Robinho controlled the ball with his left arm before tapping into the bottom corner amid furious protests by the Chievo players. Constant, linked with Milan and a dead ringer for Aaron Winter, supplied the cross for the equaliser. Pato came on for Cassano and scored the winner. He collected a Gattuso pass and drifted in from the left, dribbled past Morero and shot low in off a post. Cesar was sent off for handball and ironically it was Robinho who lead the protests for a card.<br /> <br /> <strong>Attendance</strong>: 29,404<br /> <strong>Red Card</strong>: Cesar 84 (Chievo)<br /> <strong>Assists</strong>: Ibrahimovic, Constant, Gattuso<br /> <br /> <br /> <strong>FIORENTINA</strong> 0<br /> <strong>SAMPDORIA</strong> 0<br /> <br /> <strong>Attendance</strong>: 21,723<br /> <strong>Assists</strong>: n/a<br /> <br /> <br /> <strong>GENOA</strong> 4 (Palacio 52, Paloschi 68, Palacio 74, Paloschi 85)<br /> <strong>ROMA</strong> 3 (Mexes 6, Burdisso 16, Totti 51)<br /> <br /> Mexes headed in a glorious Totti free kick. His partner in crime Burdisso, and it's a crime he's a professional footballer, made it 0-2 with a carbon copy goal. It was a GORGEOUS cross. Totti lead a counter attack, passed out wide to Borriello who turned Dainelli before rolling a center to his captain, Totti took a touch and slammed the ball into the bottom right corner. 0-3. Mexes and Julio Cesar almost collided when tracking a longball, Floro Flores pulled down Mexes, Julio Cesar scrambled in vain as Palacio thumped the ball into an empty net. Roma quickly fell apart and repelled two chances before conceding a second goal. Paloschi, on as a 64th minute substitute for Rossi, trapped a Floro Flores cross on his chest and shot wide of Julio Sergio. Four minutes later came the substitution that ended Ranieri's reign as Roma coach. Loria replaced Borriello and failed to pick-up Palacio as he peeled away at the back post and sent a header looping over Julio Sergio, 3-3. Totti had a chance to make it 3-4 on the break but he shot at Criscito with Eduardo beaten. Palacio played a delayed one-two with Criscito, the full back returning his pass with a delightful lob between two players, Julio Sergio ran off his line to narrow the angle, Palacio calmly rolled the ball to the back post and Paloschi hooked a volley into the net.<br /> <br /> Ranieri announced his resignation hours later, during the first half of Napoli - Catania. 36 year old U15 coach Montella is expected to replace him for the remainder of the season and Ancelotti at the end of it (unless Chelsea sack him).<br /> <br /> <strong>Attendance</strong>: 22,180<br /> <strong>Red Card</strong>: Rafinha 92 (Genoa)<br /> <strong>Assists</strong>: Totti (fk), Totti (fk), Borriello, n/a, Floro Flores, Mesto, Palacio<br /> <br /> <br /> <strong>LAZIO</strong> 1 (Hernanes 6)<br /> <strong>BARI</strong> 0<br /> <br /> <strong>Attendance</strong>: 25,000<br /> <strong>Assist</strong>: Sculli<br /> <br /> <br /> <strong>PARMA</strong> 2 (Crespo 64 Pen, Palladino 89)<br /> <strong>CESENA</strong> 2 (Rosina 31, Sammarco 78)<br /> <br /> Rosina scored his first goal following two wasted years at Zenit from the edge of the box, thanks to poor handling by Mirante. Belo got behind Amauri and aggressively tackled him to the floor. Fortunately for the Italian-Brazilian the referee blew for a penalty before Belo could pull down his shorts. He must have mistaken him for pornstar Zenza Raggi. Morrone got the ball caught in his feet near the Parma penalty area, Ceccarelli picked his pocket, ran into the box onto Jimenez' reverse pass and Sammarco slammed his centre into the bottom corner. Lauro challenged Budan for a ball on the edge of the box, it popped up to the centre circle and Palladino volleyed in the equaliser.<br /> <br /> <strong>Attendance</strong>: 14,095<br /> <strong>Assists</strong>: Caserta, Amauri (won pen), Ceccarelli, n/a<br /> <br /> <br /> <strong>UDINESE</strong> 0<br /> <strong>BRESCIA</strong> 0<br /> <br /> <strong>Attendance</strong>: 21,723<br /> <strong>Assists</strong>: n/a<br /> <br /> <br /> <strong>NAPOLI </strong>1 (Zuniga 25)<br /> <strong>CATANIA</strong> 0<br /> <br /> <strong>Attendance</strong>: 35,000<br /> <strong>Assists</strong>: n/a<br /> <br /> <strong><em><br />19 February 2011</em></strong><br /> <br /> <strong>BOLOGNA</strong> 1 (Paponi 90)<br /> <strong>PALERMO</strong> 0<br /> <br /> <strong>Attendance</strong>: 20,396<br /> <strong>Red Card</strong>: Garcia 57 (Palermo)<br /> <strong>Assist</strong>: Rubin<br /> <br /> <br /> <strong>INTER</strong> 1 (Ranocchia 7)<br /> <strong>CAGLIARI</strong> 0<br /> <br /> <strong>Attendance</strong>: 57,891<br /> <strong>Assist</strong>: Kharja
Mehdi
2011-02-21T00:08:00Z
Mehdi's Champions League Recap
Mehdi
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Mehdis-Champions-League-Recap/-438969007247530512.html
2011-02-17T16:45:00Z
2011-02-17T16:45:00Z
<strong>17 February 2011</strong><br /> <br /> <strong>ROMA</strong> 2 (Perrotta 28, Menez 61)<br /> <strong>SHAKHTAR DONETSK</strong> 3 (Jadson 29, Douglas Costa 36, Luiz Adriano 41)<br /> <br /> Shakhtar failed to clear their lines from a Roma corner, De Rossi recycled the ball, touched it back to Rodrigo 'Kevin Bacon' Taddei, Pyatov overshot the flight of the ball and Perrotta headed in at the back post. Immediately after the restart Shakhtar equalised. Burdisso half cleared a cross, Jadson took aim and his shot clipped off De Rossi's heals wrong footing Doni in the Roma goal. Douglas Costa appeared to score a fantastic second but his shot also took a deflection off a Roma player, this time the ever hapless Burdisso. Roma are a different proposition when Juan starts. In trying to control a weak pass into the Roma half before presumably booting the ball clear, Riise fell on his ginger arse. Douglas Costa collected the ball and centred for Luiz Adriano to tap in Shakhtar's third. Perrotta headed on a longball and a great first touch took Menez away from Mkhitaryan, he held off Jadson as he drifted infield then from the edge of the box curled the ball into the top right corner. Wonderful goal but given Shakhtar's imperious home record, Roma are fucked.<br /> <br /> <strong>Attendance</strong> : 39,876<br /> <strong>Assists</strong> : Taddei, n/a, n/a, Douglas Costa, Perrotta<br /> <br /> <br /> <strong>ARSENAL</strong> 2 (Van Persie 78, Arshavin 83)<br /> <strong>BARCELONA</strong> 1 (Villa 26)<br /> <br /> Messi ran at the Arsenal defence and poked a ball through for Villa who pulled clear of a not so square back four before tapping into the corner. Messi resisted a Song challenge in midfield and made the most of a lucky break off Koscielny and continued menacingly towards the Arsenal box, he slipped in Pedro with another brilliant pass but Szczesny (265 points in scrabble) was quick off his line and made a brilliant tackle and Messi's follow-up was disallowed for offside. The game then settled into a tedious pattern of largely pointless Barcelona passing, with Arsenal wasteful on the break. That is until the 78th minute. Clichy chipped a great pass over Pique's head, Van Persie ran clear and from an angle wide left of goal half volleyed the ball into the bottom right corner. Fantastic finish. Five minutes later Arshavin made the impossible possible on a counter. Fabregas angled a through ball between two Barca defenders to Nasri who raced away as they appealed for offside, Nasri put on the breaks and checked inside Keita before waiting for Arshavin to arrive and he rolled the ball towards the beleaguered Russian who curled first time past Valdez.<br /> <br /> If Arsenal defend as well as they did today and providing everyone is fit there's no reason they can't get a result in Barcelona.<br /> <br /> <strong>Attendance</strong> : 59,927<br /> <strong>Assists</strong> : Messi, Clichy, Nasri<br /> <br /> <br />
Mehdi
2011-02-17T16:45:00Z
Pacific Northwest Soccer Round Up
Heath Harshman
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Pacific-Northwest-Soccer-Round-Up/693648650361250022.html
2011-02-17T04:52:00Z
2011-02-17T04:52:00Z
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman,serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">There is only a month remaining until the start of the MLS season, when Seattle takes on Los Angeles in the season opener at Qwest Field on March 15. Although it feels as if the MLS Cup playoffs just ended, the preseason is well under way. The United States showing at last summer’s World Cup coupled with more national and regional coverage of soccer and the MLS around the country are both potential boosts to the MLS’ fan interest for the upcoming season.<br /></span></span><br /><span style="font-family: Times New Roman,serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Another, less discussed, factor that will increase interest is the introduction of two new MLS franchises to the league. The Portland Timbers and Vancouver Whitecaps have both joined the MLS and will give Seattle and other Western Conference teams two tough, prominent teams to play against throughout the season. <img style="float: right; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/portlandtimbersscarfs.jpg" alt="Welcome Portland Timbers" /><br /></span></span><br /><span style="font-family: Times New Roman,serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Mostly unknown and steeped in tradition, soccer in the northwest will finally be on a stage for more than just those in the region to appreciate. It won’t be long until the growing MLS fan base receives a taste of what NW soccer fans have been enjoying for a big part of the last 30 years; a large, intense, passionate and European-esque rivalry that the league has never seen before. The attendance and atmosphere at Sounders’ matches has already become a league-wide story. The crowds and fans in Vancouver and Portland will be eager to show that Seattle is not the only show in town in the northwest. </span></span><span style="font-family: Times New Roman,serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /><br />The Seattle-Portland rivalry has spanned across multiple leagues such as the USL First Division, A-League and NASL and will now continue in the MLS. Freshman Portland has fired the first shot at their twice MLS playoff making rivals in Seattle with a <a href="http://soccer.fanhouse.com/2010/09/10/portland-timbers-launch-seattle-rivalry-with-a-billboard-and-a-b">billboard sign</a> they put up in Seattle. Just a few blocks from Seattle’s home at Qwest Field the Timbers bought space on a billboard that read “Portland, Oregon. Soccer City USA” with a large Timbers logo next to it. </span></span>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman,serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"> Those two teams, along with Vancouver, will again compete for the <a href="http://home.comcast.net/%7Ekurtds2/Cascadia_Cup.html">Cascadia Cup</a>. Co-created by fan groups of the three teams in 2004, the Cascadia Cup goes to the team with the best record in the season series between the three rivals. This season will mark the first time since Seattle jumped from the USL First Division to the MLS that all three NW teams will compete for the crown. Vancouver leads Seattle and Portland, winning the trophy three times. </span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman,serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"> These three teams will also compete with another former NASL member, the San Jose Earthquakes, for the <a href="http://www.ssvcf.org/heritagecup.html">Heritage Cup</a>. Teams that have continued the tradition of their NASL city and team name into the MLS compete for this cup, which has had a fairly low-key start. Only Seattle and San Jose competed for the cup since its creation in 2009. Hopefully, with two more teams added to the fray, the Heritage Cup will gain some steam and add some flavor to west coast and northwest American soccer. </span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman,serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"> The release of the MLS schedule, albeit rather delayed, last Thursday finally put a date on these northwest derby matches. The first of which is, fittingly, between Seattle and Portland. The two rivals will play in Seattle at Qwest Field on Saturday May 14 and will have the game shown on ESPN2. The matchups are evenly split throughout the season, with one game between the three each month for the final six months of the regular season. </span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman,serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"> Even though all three teams are relatively young franchises, including two new ones altogether, northwest footy fans are hoping that they will all be competitive and start these rivalries off right in the MLS. How good the teams will be is yet to be seen, regardless of record the northwest fans will be there, singing loudly for the full 90 and showing the rest of the country what the MLS has been missing out on. </span></span></p>
<br /><span style="font-family: Times New Roman,serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">-Complete list of NW MLS regular season matchups:</span></span><span style="font-family: Times New Roman,serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /><br />Por @ Sea- 5/14</span></span><span style="font-family: Times New Roman,serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /><br />Van @ Sea- 6/11</span></span>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman,serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"> Sea @ Por- 7/10</span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman,serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"> Van @ Por- 8/20</span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman,serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"> Sea @ Van- 9/24</span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman,serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"> Por @ Van- 10/2</span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"> </p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman,serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><em>Heath Harshman is a sophomore Communication major at Washington State University. He has written for the WSU student run newspaper, The Daily Evergreen, where he had a weekly sports column. Heath also has a weekly political-media radio show Thursdays from 11a.m.-12p.m. on KUGR.org. He hopes to have a career in public relations and is currently the media relations coordinator of minor league baseball’s Tri-City Dust Devils. Follow Heath on twitter </em></span></span></span><span style="font-family: Times New Roman,serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><em><a href="http://twitter.com/">@heathharshman</a> or add him </em></span></span><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman,serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><em>on </em></span></span></span><a href="http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1191161409"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman,serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><em>facebook</em></span></span></a><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman,serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><em>. Thoughts or comments can be sent to Heath at heath_harshman@yahoo.com</em></span></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman,serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><em><img style="vertical-align: text-bottom; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/soundersfans.jpg" alt="Sounds Supporters" /><br /></em></span></span></span></p>
Heath Harshman
2011-02-17T04:52:00Z
Adam's Barclays Premier League Recap
Adam Johnson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Adams-Barclays-Premier-League-Recap/140272354990664925.html
2011-02-17T02:20:00Z
2011-02-17T02:20:00Z
<p>Premier League Recap (February 12-14)</p>
<p>Manchester United 2-1 Manchester City</p>
<p>The Manchester derby was one to remember this time around. After a dull 0-0 draw earlier this season, Saturday’s lunchtime match was anything but. Man City boss, Roberto Mancini, went back to his single striker formation while United may have been playing their best and most fit team of the season (sans Rio Ferdinand). The game started brightly with both teams attacking but then slowed down after about 15 minutes. Then came Nani’s goal after a brilliant ball from Ryan Giggs in the latter part of the first half. Edin Dzeko came on for James Milner in the second half and he paid immediate dividends when his shot came off of Silva’s back to level the match at 1-1. I think everyone knows now what happens next, the YouTube worthy, brilliant, overhead goal by Mr. Wayne Rooney. It is definitely one of the best goals I have seen and it won a huge game for United and probably knocked City out of the title race. Great moment.</p>
<p>Arsenal 2-0 Wolves</p>
<p>Arsenal remained firmly in the title race and picked up a big three points ahead of their much talked about match against Barcelona on Wednesday. Robin Van Persie looked like a superstar and got both of the Gunners goals in this match. The only problem with the performance was that Arsenal didn’t score more. That was partly due to not the greatest finishing but mostly due a fantastic game from Wolves keeper, Wayne Hennessey.</p>
<p>Sunderland 1-2 Tottenham</p>
<p>Spurs got a much needed win to give them some confidence going into the mid week Champions League play. Sunderland bossed the opening parts of the game with Ghanaian Asamoah Gyan scoring first. Tottenham equalized with a Matthew Dawson header off a corner. In the second half Niko Kranjcar got the winner just as he did last week against Bolton. The match of the two top seven teams lived up to its billing.</p>
<p>Liverpool 1-1 Wigan</p>
<p>This has to be seen as a disappointing one for Liverpool at home against a team that is in the bottom half. Raul Miereles continued his hot streak with another wonderfully struck goal but Wigan would score on a teasing ball in the second half to even the score and split the points.</p>
<p>Blackburn 0-0 Newcastle</p>
<p>Newcastle responded from their eight goal thriller against Arsenal last week with a good but not great performance that saw them get a single point at Ewood Park.</p>
<p>Bolton 2-0 Everton</p>
<p>Defender Gary Cahill scored the opener for the Wanderers, while the Daniel Sturridge loan move has turned out to be an amazing one for Bolton. He and Stuart Holden look like they have been playing together for years. David Moyes has run out of ideas as Everton’s struggles continue.</p>
<p>Blackpool 1-1 Aston Villa</p>
<p>Blackpool has struggled at home all season and it continued on Saturday. Gabby Agbonlahor opened the scoring after Darren Bent played him into space. Blackpool responded well and eventually got a goal from Grandin to tie it at 1-1. DJ Campbell missed a couple good chances for Blackpool but it got better for the home side when Jean Makoun was sent off for his wild challenge. The goal never came for Blackpool so it was another draw at home.</p>
<p>Birmingham 1-0 Stoke</p>
<p>Not much to say about this one, because it was Stoke and Birmingham. Giant striker, Zigic, got the winner in stoppage time.</p>
<p>West Brom 3-3 West Ham</p>
<p>On paper, this looked like it was going to be a boring match up of terrible W clubs, but in reality it was a six goal classic (kind of). Graham Dorrans got the first one on a screamer in the 3<sup>rd</sup> minute before Jerome Thomas and a West Ham own goal made it 3-0 to West Brom. The Hammers were not done, however. There was a fighting spirit from West Ham and they climbed all the way back to get a 3-3 draw with two goals from new signee Demba Ba (1st and 3rd) and Carlton Cole (2nd).</p>
<p>Fulham 0-0 Chelsea</p>
<p>Not much happened in the first 90 minutes of this game except a lot of missed chances from Chelsea’s Fernando Torres. When the clock hit 90:00 the match got interesting. Fulham started to look they were going to win it when Clint Dempsey won a penalty for them after David Luiz, who had a great game for Chelsea, brought him down in stoppage time. Dempsey then missed the penalty and the rebound which was essentially the last kick of the match. Yet another poor result for Chelsea.</p>
<p>The Rooney goal and United win was obviously the big story of the weekend but plenty happened to keep the various races (title, fourth spot, and relegation) alive and enthralling. </p>
<br />
Adam Johnson
2011-02-17T02:20:00Z
Josh's Bundesliga Recap
Josh Morris
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Joshs-Bundesliga-Recap/477613182414808544.html
2011-02-15T18:12:00Z
2011-02-15T18:12:00Z
Bundesliga Matchday 22<br /><br /><br />FC Bayern München v. 1899 Hoffenheim 4:0 (2:0)<br /><br />Allianz Arena –<br /><br />FCB are building momentum. This is a story that Bundesliga fans know well. Although Louis Van Gaal has written off the retaining the title, second in the table is almost inevitable (after Matchday 22 they find themselves 3 points behind Bayer Leverkusen – Neverkusen). This game was dubbed a game of the week by Bundesliga Magazine and did not disappoint. Bayern came out strong and scored within the first two minutes. A beautiful through ball from 2010 World Golden Boot winner, Thomas Müller, set up Mario Gomez (leading goal scorer in the Bundesliga at 17) for an easy goal. Bayern continued to press throughout the first half and got their second only 13 minutes after the first. Although Franck Ribéry did the majority of the work the finish by Müller was as cool as you like. Bayern continued to dominate the second half with two goals by Robben (his first in typical fashion cutting in from the right almost Messiesque, or does Messi score Robbenesque goals??) The only not for Hoffenheim? 4 bookings? They did hold 48.8% possession, but this day was all about Bayern. They looked like the dominant Bayern from last season and a preferred 4-2-3-1 works well. Robbery is back and playing well.<br /><br /><br />Eintracht Frankfurt v. Bayer 04 Leverkusen 0:3 (0:2)<br /><br />Commerzbank-Arena –<br /><br />Frankfurt, a team that started the season like the other surprises (Mainz, Hannover…) have fallen, and fallen fast. Michael Skibbe’s boys have not scored a goal in 2011 (scored on 8 times), and after this weekend have fallen to 11th in the table. Leverkusen, on the other hand, have taken all three points in each game in 2011, except losing to league leaders Dortmund after the Winter Break. This game was never in doubt. The only question was by how much Bayer would win. Frankfurt’s hope rests on the Greek shoulders of Gekas, who is either really on or really off. Unfortunately for Frankfurt fans he has been really off. Simon Rolfes, extremely underrated as a midfielder in Germany, scored after only nine minutes. A comedy of errors by Frankfurt led to an easy second goal from Renato Augusto. Frankfurt’s defense was just terrible, horrible! Bayer’s third goal, in the 84 minute, was a thing of beauty, but it’s hard to say too much because of Frankfurt’s impotence on the field.<br /><br /><br />Werder Bremen v. Hannover 96 1:1 (0:1)<br /><br />Weserstadion -<br /><br />A northern German derby that sees these rivals at opposite ends of the table. For Thomas Schaaf and Bremen they sit in 14th position with only 24 points (one point away from a relegation spot). At times it is hard to see what went wrong at Bremen. They still have quality players like Aaron Hunt, Marko Marin, and the Bundesliga’s all-time foreign goal scorer Claudio Pizarro, but on the field they constantly fail to play as a team. Hannover, on the other hand, find themselves fighting for a European birth, sitting nervously in 4th – one point behind Bayern and one point ahead of Mainz. Didier Ya Konan scored in the 26th minute through pure grit and determination. That brings his goal total to 11, which is good enough for third place. Bremen pulled the game back from a set piece – Per Mertesacker.<br /><br /><br />FC Schalke 04 v. Freiburg 1:0 (0:0)<br /><br />Veltins-Arena –<br /><br />The highlight of this game, besides the constant support and backing of the Royal Blue faithful, was an exquisite goal from the Peruvian Jefferson Farfán. After a beautiful through ball from Raul all Farfán needed was a touch and shot, and he finished sublimely. Felix Magath sent his boys out in a 4-4-2, which works well for the Royal Blues. For me, one player that constantly underwhelms is Klaas-Jan Huntelaar. Only 7 goals in 1,707 minutes? Seems like a drought. A constant bright light for Schalke is the rise of former Real Madrid player, José Jurado, keep an eye out for this youngster.<br /><br /><br />VfB Stuttgart v. 1. FC Nürnberg 1:4 (1:2)<br /><br />Mercedes-Benz Arena –<br /><br />In a world of kissing the badge and then jumping ship, FC Nürnberg’s on loan, Julian Schieber, almost had a mental breakdown scoring – and bossing – his parent club. Stuttgart, the 2007 champions, are beginning to think they are too good to go down are wandering too close to the drop. If Bob Bradley is reading this he needs to call up the young German born American, Tim Chandler. He looked extremely comfortable in this match. An assist and a sublime goal. Stuttgart find themselves in 17th place with only 19 points and 5 points from safety. Is Bruno Labbadia already out of ideas? They can’t fire him, he is the third manager for VfB this season! Der Club, on the other hand, are punching above their weight in ninth.<br /><br /><br />VfL Wolfsburg v. Hamburger SV 0:1 (0:1)<br /><br />Volkswagen-Arena<br /><br />The main focus of this match was on the touchline. Who would replace Steve McClaren? The answer is surprising, and somewhat nonsensical. Pierre Littbarski takes the helm of a team in which the real problem is the egos of the players. The 2009 champions rarely show that form. Diego is not the same player he was before he left Bremen for Italy. The only note of this actual game was the spot kick by Croatian Mladen Petric. He is consistently one of the most exciting Bundesliga players, but needs a new goal celebration… Wolfsburg took the edge in possession with 57% but could not convert any of their 8 shots.<br /><br /><br />FC St. Pauli v. Borussia M’gladbach 3:1 (1:1)<br /><br />Millerntor Stadium –<br /><br />I realize everyone says this, but if you are a neutral and need a Bundesliga side to support – watch St. Pauli! They are a cult favorite, but actually strive to play attacking football. They are hovering in 12th, but on a decent run of form, undefeated in 2011. It is good to see Gerald Asamoah returning to form after being shown the door at Schalke (4 goals). Gladbach got the game underway after only 9 minutes, but then they did what gladbach do – capitulate and fall. St. Pauli scored three unanswered (Kruse, 37; Asamoah, 53; Lehmann, 58) to win this match with almost 70% possession (68.3). Their 23 shots to gladbach’s 7 shows the trajectory of this match and the firing of coach, Michael Frontzeck. Gladbach hire Lucien Favre, whose recent claim to fame is helping Hertha BSC get relegated. Perhaps that is unfair; he was named coach of the year in 2008/9 season after taking the capital club to 4th place. I would love to hear gladbach fan’s reaction.<br /><br /><br />FC Köln v. 1 FSV Mainz 05 4:2 (2:1)<br /><br />Rheinenergie Stadium –<br /><br />This may have been the surprise game of the weekend, at least for excitement. Whenever Köln takes the field one eye is glued to the Prince, Podolski, who after a slow and almost non-existent start to second spell with his hometown club, Köln, has begun to look fruitful. He bagged a brace (9 total for the season) and had a hand in everything Köln did going forward. On the Mainz side, is the boy band over? They are losing pace and losing that killer edge, but there are signs of hope. Sami Allagui, for example, is a danger whenever he gets on the ball (check out his goal against FC Bayern)<br /><br /><br />FC Kaiserslautern v. Borussia Dortmund 1:1 (0:0)<br /><br />Fritz-Walter-Stadium<br /><br />The 2011 Bundesliga Champions Dortmund (yep, you read it right) are only ten points ahead of Leverkusen after matchday 22. Dortmund had won their last ten road games, and the record set by Werder and Hamburg is 11, but they would not match this record. This game only appeared even. K-town can thank the woodwork and tired legs from the young Dortmund side that this match was only 1-1. The Dortmund goal finally came through Sven Bender in the 81’. Bender is one of the young up and comers at Dortmund. However, the Dortmund defense, usually solid, failed to clear a corner and in the 90th minute were scored on. Dortmund takes the edge on possession with 54%. Dortmund peppered the K-town goal with 17 shots (compared to 15 by K-town).<br /><br /><br />Midweek Update<br /><br />Hamburger SV v. St. Pauli 0:1 (0:0)<br />
<p>Goal Scorers: St. Pauli – Gerald Asamoah (59’)</p>
<p>HSH Nordbank Arena/<em>Imtech Arena</em><em> </em>– 57,000 </p>
<p>The reverse of this <em>Stadtderby </em>was an exhilarating 1-1 draw (seriously). On that day, St. Pauli took the lead over their cross-town neighbors but had their hearts broken by a phenomenal strike by Mladen Petric (with his terrible goal celebration, see Matchday 22 review). Matchday 21 was different. That <em>cult</em> team that I told you to follow is now on top of the Bundesliga form table for 2011 – undefeated in 5 matches. Holger Stanislawski’s team (St. Pauli) has run a 4-2-3-1 for most of the season and this continued tonight. St. Pauli looked happy to sit back and absorb pressure waiting patiently to strike, although they rarely struck (only registering 5 shots on target vs. HSV’s 22). This all should have backfired as St. Pauli were outplayed for much of this contest (HSV registering 64% possession), but nonetheless struck through Gerald Asamoah (59’), bringing his season tally to 5. The former German international even looked surprised to score. HSV will feel robbed. The stats were completely in their favor, and by the way, forget Xavi; David Jarolim completed 63/68 passes in the HSV midfield!</p>
<p>* This was St. Pauli’s first victory at HSV since 1977</p>
<br /><br />
Josh Morris
2011-02-15T18:12:00Z
Mehdi's Serie A Match Day Recap
Mehdi
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Mehdis-Serie-A-Match-Day-Recap/-461106396899964544.html
2011-02-15T16:01:00Z
2011-02-15T16:01:00Z
<p><strong><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-family: Geneva,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">13 February 2011</span></span></span></strong></p>
<p><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><strong>PALERMO 2</strong> (Pastore 7, Nocerino 48)</span></p>
<p><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong>FIORENTINA 4</strong> (Gilardino 36, Camporese 70, Bovo 78 og, Montolivo 88)</span></span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Pastore blasted Palermo into the lead with a brilliant first time shot from an Ilicic cut-back. Gilardino missed two easy chances before losing Munoz to head in the equaliser. The boy needs to learn how to mark. Miccoli wriggled between two defenders before hanging up a cross for the late arriving Nocerino to head past Boruc. Fiorentina's 18 year old centre back took advantage of shocking marking to tap in his first Serie A goal from a corner. Montolivo struck the inside of a post with a spectacular shot on the turn from 35 yards out. Bovo turned a Ljajic centre past his own 'keeper. Ljajic raced down the left flank, put on the breaks and stepped past Ilicic before rolling a centre across goal and Montolivo tapped in the fourth.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Attendance : 24,571</span></p>
<p><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Assists : Ilicic, Behrami, Miccoli, Pasqual, n/a, Ljajic</span></span></span></p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong><span style="font-family: Geneva,sans-serif; font-size: small;">BARI 0</span></strong></p>
<p><strong><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-family: Geneva,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">GENOA 0</span></span></span></strong></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Attendance : 15,000</span></p>
<p><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Assists : n/a</span></span></span></p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong><span style="font-family: Geneva,sans-serif; font-size: small;">BRESCIA 0</span></strong></p>
<p><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong>LAZIO 2</strong> (Gonzalez 17, Kozak 58)</span></span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Uruguayan winger Gonzalez scored his first Serie A goal in only his second appearance with a great flick header from mid-week bad boy Hernanes. Kozak, who Lazio sent on loan to Brescia last season, headed in the second from a corner and as you would expect (Serie A doesn't have the badge kissing culture) didn't celebrate.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Attendance : 7,000</span></p>
<p><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Assists : Lichtsteiner, Ledesma (ck)</span></span></span></p>
<p> </p>
<p><span style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><strong>CAGLIARI 4</strong> (Conti 19, Canini 29, Nene 44, Nene 71)</span></p>
<p><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong>CHIEVO 1</strong> (Thereau 84)</span></span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: small;">After upsetting Napoli and holding Lazio at the Olimpico in recent weeks you wouldn't have expected Chievo to capitulate in this manner. Conti threw himself at Pisano cross to score with a close range header. Cagliari worked a short corner, Conti's miss-hit shot fell kindly to Canini who held off Pulzetti before shooting into a corner. Nene ran onto a longball and lobbed over Sorrentino as he raced off his line. Chievo failed to clear their lines from a corner, Sorrentino punched out Astori's goalbound volley and Nene volleyed in the rebound with a scissor kick. Not nearly as impressive as it sounds. The Cagliari defence were already in the dressing room when Thereau scored his consolation goal. Constant's cross was excellent. Easy to see why both Milan and Inter are chasing him.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Cagliari are surprisingly making light of Matri's absence.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Attendance : 5,000</span></p>
<p><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Assists : Pisano, n/a, Cossu, n/a, Constant</span></span></span></p>
<p> </p>
<p><span style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><strong>CATANIA 3</strong> (Silvestre 47, Lodi 80 fk, Lodi 85 fk)</span></p>
<p><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong>LECCE 2</strong> (Jeda 56, Munari 61)</span></span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Silvestre headed Catania into the lead in first half injury time. Jeda equalised with a textbook header. He's got good hang time for a midget. Munari, who made Lecce's first, tapped in a rebound after Olivera's shot came back off a post. Lecce paid a heavy heavy price for failing to kill off Catania on the break, some of the worst counter attacking you'll see. One two occasions they broke from their own half only to fail miserably with the final ball. Lodi, not to be confused with the 'gay' Pro Wrestler circa 1999 WCW, scored two identical left footed fresh kicks inside the left post. Giacomazzi, who looks like the Syrian that was bummed in Friday's Spartacus, was sent off for dissent.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Attendance : 15,000</span></p>
<p><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Red Card : Giacomazzi 95 (Lecce)</span></span></span></p>
<p><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Assists : Llama (fk), Munari, n/a, Gomez (won fk), Lodi (won fk)</span></span></span></p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong><span style="font-family: Geneva,sans-serif; font-size: small;">CESENA 0</span></strong></p>
<p><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong>UDINESE 3</strong> (Di Natale 41, Inler 69, Di Natale 75)</span></span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Udinese thought they had won a penalty when Sanchez was tripped on/in the box. The ref awarded a free kick on the edge of the box and Di Natale rifled the ball into the top right corner. Inler, making a rare foray forward, recovered from a sloppy first touch to squeeze a shot inside a post. Di Natale tapped in the third from a deflected cross as Udinese continued their menacing push for a Champions League place.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Attendance : 16,704</span></p>
<p><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Assists : Sanchez (won fk), Di Natale, n/a</span></span></span></p>
<p> </p>
<p><span style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><strong>SAMPDORIA 3</strong> (Palombo 8 fk, Gastaldello 11, Maccarone 15)</span></p>
<p><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong>BOLOGNA 1</strong> (Paponi 65)</span></span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Palombo, Colombo's Italian cousin, eased the pressure on his coach with a brilliant free kick through a poorly formed wall. Gastaldello headed in a corner. Dessena dived in for a loose ball, sending Portanova sprawling, the ball broke for 'Big Mac' Maccarone and he rounded Viviano before tapping into an empty net. Paponi scored via a deflection off a Sampdoria defender.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Despite losing this six pointer and their 3 points penalty Bologna are still in a healthy position.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Attendance : 21,000</span></p>
<p><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Assists : Poli (won fk), Ziegler (ck), Dessena, n/a</span></span></span></p>
<p> </p>
<p><span style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><strong>JUVENTUS 1</strong> (Matri 30)</span></p>
<p><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong>INTER 0</strong><br /><br /></span></span></span><span style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Krasic tried to bait Zanetti on the left but he wouldn't bite so he passed the ball back to Sorensen, Cordoba left Matri to attack the Dane's cross, missed the ball and Matri headed down past Julio Cesar. Buffon flapped at a point blank Pazzini header but nonetheless parried the ball to safety. Matri should have put the game to bed but headed a glorious Krasic cross wide when this time Ranocchia bailed and left him unmarked in the centre of the box. Matri took a shot to the ribs under a Maicon challenge and spent the rest of the match moping around in pain. He couldn't jump but saw another chance, a left foot volley, flash wide of a post. Pepe tried to run the ball out of defence but hit the wall that is Maicon, he played a one-two with Pandev before swinging in one of his laser precision crosses, Eto'o, charged towards the back post and shanked his shot against the underside of the crossbar and out. Minutes later Sneijder played him in with a disguised pass, he turned away from Sorensen as the ball bounced off his heals, he uncorked his left foot and kicked free air.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: small;">For those keeping count Inter under Leonardo 14 goals conceded in 9 games. Inter play their game in hand away to a resurgent Fiorentina in mid-week without the suspended Motta.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Attendance : 24,485</span></p>
<p><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Assist : Sorensen</span></span></span></p>
<p> </p>
<p><span style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: small;">12 February 2011</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><strong>MILAN 4</strong> (Seedorf 8, Cassano 17, Robinho 61, Robinho 65)</span></p>
<p><strong><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-family: Geneva,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">PARMA 0</span></span></span></strong></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Ibrahimovic touched Merkel's deflected cross to Seedorf, he rounded Mirante and poked the ball into an empty net. Cassano scored a magnificent first goal for Milan. Hugging the left touchline, he gave a disguised return pass to Antonini, Antonini backed into a defender and passed inside to Seedorf, Cassano ran infield onto Seedorf's pass and played square to Gattuso who chipped a deliciously weighted ball over the heads of the Parma defence and just as it dropped Cassano gently rolled it into the bottom right corner. Beautiful goal. Milan wasted half a dozen chances before, ironically, Robinho came off the bench and took the game away from Parma with two clinical strikes from Cassano passes.</span></p>
<p> </p>
<p><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />Attendance : 46,119</span></span></span></p>
<p><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Assists : Ibrahimovic, Gattuso, Cassano, Cassano</span></span></span></p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong><span style="font-family: Geneva,sans-serif; font-size: small;">ROMA 0</span></strong></p>
<p><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong>NAPOLI 2</strong> (Cavani 49 Pen, Cavani 83)</span></span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Hamsik made the most of Juan's momentary tug on his shirt to go down and win the penalty. Cavani's shot rebounded off both posts though was clearly over the line and he followed up just to make sure. Why De Rossi berated the ref afterwards is anyone's guess. Napoli were comfortably the better side and Cavani put the seal on a fine win with another extraordinary goal, volleying in Cannavaro's cross with the side of his shin.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Attendance : 32,737</span></p>
<p><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Assists : Hamsik (won pen), Cannavaro</span></span></span></p>
<p> </p>
<p><span style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: small;">--</span></p>
<p><a href="http://soccer-europe.com/"><span style="color: #251b8e;"><span style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">http://soccer-europe.com</span></span></span></a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/ChooChooMcGee"><span style="color: #251b8e;"><span style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">http://www.youtube.com/user/ChooChooMcGee</span></span></span></a></p>
<br />
Mehdi
2011-02-15T16:01:00Z
Kenny gunning for full- time managerial role
Tim Mallow's View
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Kenny-gunning-for-full--time-managerial-role/-157810933956584918.html
2011-02-08T02:20:00Z
2011-02-08T02:20:00Z
TMR Football Blogger, Tim Mallows- <br /> <br /><!-- p { margin-bottom: 0.08in; }a:link { } -->Part-time Liverpool boss Kenny Dalglish will be optimistic of securing the role on a long-term basis after he guided his side to an excellent 1-0 over reigning champions Chelsea.<br />
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Prior to his appointment, some considered him too old and, having been out of the game for some time, many questioned his tactical nous. Both doubts were laid to rest as his footballing brain kicked into to stifle a static Chelsea side and emerge victorious from a hostile atmosphere at Stamford Bridge.<br /><img style="vertical-align: bottom; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/torresbluered.jpg" alt="Torres now a Blue" /><br />Prior to the match, all of the talk had been about Fernando Torres; his £50 million transfer set chins wagging on both sides and the Spaniard was duly handed his debut in a blue shirt. Torres was substituted after 67 minutes and left no impact on the match; something which cannot be said of Dalglish.<br /><br />As Raul Meireles pounced upon a Chelsea defensive mistake and drove the ball goalwards, Kenny Dalglish leant forward in anticipation. The rippling of the net was met with a youthful joyous leap that rolled back the years for the Anfield faithful and their hero.<br /><img style="vertical-align: bottom; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/KennyDalglish01.jpg" alt="Happy Kenny!" /><br />Aside from astute knowledge of the game, King Kenny has been able to turn the club around and put them in with a realistic chance of at least a Europa Cup place by sheer force of personality. He exudes a confidence that is felt through the supporters and the players. Anfield rocks upon his presence; something which cannot be said of previous boss Roy Hodgson.<br /><br />His influence can be seen in the like of Meireles and Lucas; both players were criticised under Hodgson but have excelled recently in their <a title="Liverpool shirts" href="http://www.football-shirts.co.uk/liverpool-shirt.html" target="_blank"><strong>Liverpool shirts</strong></a>. Lucas has been a model of passing consistency will the Portuguese international has shown a desire to be involved and get forward that the entire team was lacking under the previous management.<br /><br />Having got his tactics spot on against Chelsea and helped revive what was considered a dead season, there can surely be no other candidate for the job. No other manager would be able to do what Dalglish has done; it takes a special man to turn around a club by sheer personality and enthusiasm. When new signings Luis Suarez and Andy Carroll have established themselves in the side, the Liverpool team will win more games than it loses. The King has returned.</p>
<br />
Tim Mallow's View
2011-02-08T02:20:00Z
Can Carroll prove himself at the Reds?
Guest Blogger
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Can-Carroll-prove-himself-at-the-Reds/-164573946562289200.html
2011-02-07T15:32:00Z
2011-02-07T15:32:00Z
Guest Blogger- <br /><br /><span style="font-family: Times New Roman,serif;"></span><span style="font-family: Times New Roman,serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Fernando Torres is a man who may have left Liverpool fans seething with his big-money move to Premier League rivals Chelsea, but they may yet find their pain eased by a man who, although not the most fashionable name in world football, could find life on Merseyside a perfect fit. </span></span>
<p><span style="font-family: Times New Roman,serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Andy Carroll is not a man who shies away from big challenges and tough situations. Although attracting criticism at times for his actions off the field of play his time at Newcastle was nothing but a success, and now could be the time for the English striker to make a move that could turn out to be the turning point in a career that progresses from promising to successful whilst wearing the red of Liverpool. The </span></span><a title="Liverpool betting tips" href="http://www.betfairfootball.com/" target="_blank"><strong><span style="font-family: Times New Roman,serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Liverpool betting tips</span></span></strong></a><span style="font-family: Times New Roman,serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"> now suggest the side could make Europe, and Carroll can play a big part in their push once he's fit.</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Times New Roman,serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Certainly Kenny Dalglish believes this will become the reality at Anfield, even if the vultures in the English press remain cynical about the transfer. With the Liverpool boss believing that the striker has arrived at the perfect location in which to fulfil his "fantastic potential", and the striker no doubt buzzing with the confidence of being able to boast such a hefty price tag following his move from Newcastle, the signs look good for a Liverpool revival led by perhaps the most unlikely of characters. The </span></span><strong><span style="font-family: Times New Roman,serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a title="football betting odds" href="http://www.betfairfootball.com/premier-league/liverpool/no-gray-areas---carroll-is-a-great-buy-030211.html" target="_blank">football betting odds</a> </span></span></strong><span style="font-family: Times New Roman,serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.betfairfootball.com/premier-league/liverpool/no-gray-areas---carroll-is-a-great-buy-030211.html" target="_blank"></a> hint he could be top English scorer this season, and that would be no mean feat for a player who has missed a significant number of games.</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Times New Roman,serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">At 22 years of age, some Liverpool fans believe that such a big move has been made by the youngster two or three years too early than would ideally be preferable in modern day football, but with Liverpool no longer boasting world class talent in every position on the pitch, Carroll is unlikely to get lost in the ranks of the historic club as he may have done even just two or three years ago. </span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Times New Roman,serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">If Carroll's transition proves to be a smooth one, it could be great news not just for Liverpool fans, but for England fans as well.</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Times New Roman,serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><img style="vertical-align: bottom; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/CarrollNewRed.jpg" alt="Carrol and Dalglish" /><br /></span></span></p>
Guest Blogger
2011-02-07T15:32:00Z
Torres transfer adds spice to Liverpool v Chelsea
Tim Mallow's View
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Torres-transfer-adds-spice-to-Liverpool-v-Chelsea/-332412412513952594.html
2011-02-05T15:23:00Z
2011-02-05T15:23:00Z
TMR Football Blogger, Tim Mallows- <br /> <br /><!-- p { margin-bottom: 0.08in; }a:link { } -->
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">The newest rivalry in the Premier League was established merely six years ago. With Jose Mourinho in charge, Chelsea would go on to secure their first ever Premier League title having already won the League cup earlier in the 2004/5 season, defeating Liverpool in the semi-final on the way. The 2006 FA Cup semi provided Liverpool with revenge as the moved forward to face West Ham at the expense of Chelsea in one of the clubs defining games under Rafa Benitez.<br /><br />Having found themselves drawn against Liverpool in the semi-final of the Champions League, Luis Garcia’s own 1966 moment ensured the tension is always at breaking point between the two sides. Add in another semi-final in Europe’s premier competition in which Chelsea came out on top after a thrilling 4-4 draw in the second leg and Sunday’s game between the two is guaranteed to be a taught affair, with the tension ratcheted up by the sensational move of Spaniard Fernando Torres from red to blue.<br /><br />Cruelly, <a title="Sports Betting" href="http://www.bigfreebet.com/sports-betting/" target="_blank"><strong>sports betting</strong></a> markets will likely install Torres as the favourite to score against his old side.<br /><br />Liverpool endured a torrid start to the season which saw the arrival and departure of Roy Hodgson, and the appointment of Anfield Icon Kenny Dalglish. A rocky start has been preceded by three clean sheets in a row and a lurch up the Premier League table to 7th.<br /><br />Chelsea, under Carlo Ancelotti, have had their own troubles this season and found themselves out of the Champions League spots as a terrible run of only one win in nine meant the Italian’s job was at one point under pressure.<br /><br />Having broken free of their restrictions, Chelsea have hit a purple patch in recent weeks, bagging 10 goals in three games as they look to play catch-up with league leaders Manchester United. Banishing the demons of their own personal low point this season, Chelsea eased past Sunderland and seriously stated their intentions for this season.<br /><br />Ironically it was Liverpool’s win against Chelsea earlier in the season, through the goals of - yes you guessed it -Fernando Torres; that proved to be a high point in Hodgson’s otherwise fruitless reign.<br /><br />Sunday’s game, with the added layer of tension surrounding the transfer of Torres will ensure it will be a game not to be missed. Torres has promised not to celebrate if he scores out respect to his old club, he will be lucky if Liverpool fans are as considerate if he misses.</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><img style="vertical-align: bottom; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/TorresRed1.jpg" alt="Reds Burning Torres" /></p>
<br />
Tim Mallow's View
2011-02-05T15:23:00Z
Steven Pienaar: A Professional, and Inspiration
Chris McClintick
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Steven-Pienaar:-A-Professional,-and-Inspiration/-54673946322914674.html
2011-01-28T18:29:00Z
2011-01-28T18:29:00Z
<!-- p { margin-bottom: 0.08in; }a:link { color: rgb(0, 0, 255); } -->Chris McClintick<br />Former WFD Intern<br />World Famous DJ
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">For Steven Pienaar, deciding which large European club to sign for after his tenure at Goodison Park was only a miniscule challenge compared with those he faced growing up, such as living to see the next day. Pienaar recalls having to sit on the floor while watching television in his Westbury home, one of the most dangerous Townships during Apartheid, out of fear that if he, or one of his three silblings, were to sit on the couch level with the window, they might get hit by a stray bullet.</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Growing up in a dangerous township such as Westbury has given Pienaar a constant sense of gratitude and humbleness in his everyday life, as well as on the pitch. Pienaar is a devout Christian, and is not afraid to show it by always wearing a shirt bearing “God is Great” underneath his jersey during matches. This down-to-earth foundation has contributed to his selfless style of play as a hard-working provider with inimitable vision. This has been constantly shown during his time at Everton through his space-creating turns in the midfield, as well as his cunning passes strung between himself and his former left-flank companion, Leighton Baines.</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">It comes with no surprise then that Pienaar has been a complete professional during his failed contract negotiations with Everton and his move to Tottenham. Never once misleading his fans or the media by dedicating his future to Everton, and honestly stating that he wasn’t sure what his future had in store for him. It is refreshing, during an age where a footballer’s contract means less and less as more money enters the upper echelons of football (as Kenny recently put it, contracts now are simply autographs), that Pienaar saw out the majority of his three-year contract with Everton. With much of the decision to cut the remainder of his contract coming from a club desperate for money, otherwise Pienaar would have walked on a free during the summer transfer window.</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">So what will Harry Redknapp get out of his newly acquired South African? Goals certainly haven’t been Pienaar’s forte throughout his career, although he has scored some important goals during his tenure at Everton. Perhaps most notably his relentless run across half of the Emirates pitch leaving any pursuing Arsenal players in the dust without looking back, and chipping a helpless Almunia, as shown <a title="Steven Pienaar" href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gf5LpxPVpyI" target="_blank">here<span style="color: #0000ff;"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"></span></span></a>. Pienaar later called that goal the best of his career thus far, and it also highlighted his best attribute as a footballer and the reason Spurs, and many other clubs, were attracted to him, his incredible work rate. This is something Everton’s American keeper, Tim Howard, simply described as the “Engine” of the Everton squad.</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">His professionalism will undoubtedly remain unchanged, although his family ties may take a hit. His brother, Kelvin, an ardent Arsenal supporter, did not speak to Steven for a long period of time following Steven’s blistering solo effort against his club. Kelvin will certainly not be welcoming the idea of his brother now playing for his club’s heated North-London rivals. Regardless of his brother’s allegiance to the rivals of his new club, Steven will not let this or any other distractions get in the way of trying to break into the talented Tottenham squad. He is guided and inspired by a god who has always led him throughout his life, and is the motivation behind this skillful midfield engine. Pienaar will be just that, motivated, as he always has been.</p>
Chris McClintick
2011-01-28T18:29:00Z
Arsenal must develop a ruthless streak
Guest Blogger
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Arsenal-must-develop-a-ruthless-streak /229179479964001050.html
2011-01-21T15:50:00Z
2011-01-21T15:50:00Z
Guest Blogger- <br /><br /><span style="font-family: Times New Roman,serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Arsenal have been synonymous with beautiful football ever since the arrival of Arsene Wenger back in 1996. They pass the ball with an ease, they play the ball out from the back through a midfield which is a mix of delicate touch and hardened steel and they have always had striking options which just about every manager on the continent would be envious of. In short, they play football the right way. </span></span>
<p><span style="font-family: Times New Roman,serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">But over the years this strength has ironically been seen as their greatest weakness, and this week their captain has criticized not their playing style, but rather the playing styles of all the other teams in English football. Cesc Fabregas, speaking after their surprise 1-0 loss to Ipswich in the League Cup semi-final this week was scathing of the approach adopted by the home side and has admitted to his frustration at trying to play football against sides that put more emphasis on territory than on possession. </span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Times New Roman,serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">"We just have to put the ball on the floor and try to play football. It was disappointing to lose because I think we were the much better team. Arsenal made the football, the other team refused to play football, they were lucky to score with a long ball," he said.</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Times New Roman,serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">However, fans will still be left wondering how the club lost a game the </span></span><strong><span style="font-family: Times New Roman,serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a title="Football Predictions" href="http://www.betfairfootball.com/" target="_blank">football predictions</a> </span></span></strong><span style="font-family: Times New Roman,serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.betfairfootball.com/" target="_blank"></a> indicated they would win easily.</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Times New Roman,serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Indeed, there are many Arsenal supporters who would happily see their side fight fire with fire and adopt a slightly more direct approach themselves at times, but Wenger has so far refused to compromise on his vision of perfect football, despite regular criticism that his side tend to try to walk the ball into the net rather than winning ugly. Although it would obviously be a shame to lose their trademark elegance, a wait of five season for a trophy does not suggest that the system is quite working and the </span></span><a title="Football Betting" href="http://www.betfairfootball.com/premier-league/arsenal/" target="_blank"><strong><span style="font-family: Times New Roman,serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">football betting</span></span></strong></a><span style="font-family: Times New Roman,serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.betfairfootball.com/premier-league/arsenal/" target="_blank"></a> indicates they will face a battle to land silverware this term.</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Times New Roman,serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">This weekend they face West Ham at Upton Park, and can be assured of a physical contest as Avram Grant's side struggle to escape relegation: whether or not they can resist the urge to try passing it through what will inevitably be a packed midfield remains to be seen and their title hopes may rest on their ability to evolve.</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Times New Roman,serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/nicklasbendtner.jpg" alt="Bendtner" /><br /></span></span></p>
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Guest Blogger
2011-01-21T15:50:00Z
Bent hopes to kickstart Villa's season
Tim Mallow's View
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Bent-hopes-to-kickstart-Villas-season/-893543414446375727.html
2011-01-20T17:34:00Z
2011-01-20T17:34:00Z
TMR Football Blogger, Tim Mallows- <br /> <br />By all accounts Darren Bent was an unrivalled success during his time in Sunderland. 25 goals in his first season with the club represents an excellent return for Nail Quinn on his £11.5 million gamble on the then struggling Spurs striker.<br /><br />And he hasn’t started the 2010/11 season too slowly either, netting eight times and combining excellently with new signing Asamoah Gyan and on-loan Manchester United striker Danny Wellbeck to push the north-east club up to 6th in the league.<br />
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Meanwhile, Aston Villa have struggled badly this season. Rocked after the departure of their inspirational coach Martin O’Neill just a few days before the start of the season, new boss Gerard Houllier has divided opinion with his straight-forward management style.</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">One man to feel his manager’s ire was new signing Stephen Ireland, who was lamented and subsequently dropped for his perceived lack of effort. Full-back Stephen Warnock is also in the manager’s bad books and is currently training with the reserves.<br /><br />The turmoil surrounding the relegation threatened club is a stark contrast to the calm that surrounded Villa Park with O’Neill at the helm. The Irishman bought European football to the club and at one point was in with a sniff of the title as his side played their way to third position in the league last season and were touted as the club to break the top-four monopoly in the league.<br /><br />But the gloom surrounding Villa Park may well be lifted after the record signing of Bent. If ever there was the club in need of a proven goal scorer, it is Villa.<br /><br />Amongst the lowest scorers in the league, <a title="Big Free Bet" href="http://www.bigfreebet.com/" target="_blank"><strong>bigfreebet</strong></a> will put the struggles of the midland’s club at the inability of the current strike force to find the net; 24 goals this season leaves them fifth bottom in the goal scoring charts. By contrast Villa under O’Neill managed 71 goals in the 2007/8 season, their highest ever tally.<br /><br />Proven at Premier League level beyond doubt, the former Charlton marksman is only behind Didier Drogba and Wayne Rooney in terms of goals scored since 2005, and he cost significantly less than his acclaimed peers.<br /><br />But why would Darren Bent risk a move to a struggling club from a club on the up?<br /><br />Bent is correct in his assessment that Villa’s current position is a false one. Houllier’s has a proven record in the Premier League and Bent has gambled on the Frenchman’s abilities to turn the club around and put his faith in a man who had already shown faith in him.<br /><br />Two successive 6th positions under O’Neill showcase the potential of the club and Chairman Randy Lerner has shown he has the money and is willing to back Houllier.<br /><br />Meanwhile, since Sunderland’s return to the Premier League in the 2007/8 season, the Black Cats have yet to really establish a foothold in the league from which to launch an assault on the higher positions in the league.<br /><br />Last season’s 13th placed finish represents their highest position since their return to the big time; although fans will hope that their resurgence under Steve Bruce isn’t a false dawn, Bent’s decision shows what he thinks.<br /><br />Bent’s transfer conjures the image of a beaten yet not defeated boxer. His first shot at the big time came at Tottenham Hotspur where he ended up on the canvas, and after being beaten he secured a move to the north-east.<br /><br />But one defeat does not mean the end of a boxer’s career and Bent has shown his determination by reasserting himself as one of the deadliest strikers in the league to secure his second shot at the big time.<br /><br />Having missed out on a spot in the England World Cup squad, Bent’s decision may also have been swayed by two of the finest wingers in the land currently plying their trade for Villa.<br /><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/AstonVilla.jpg" alt="Aston Villa" /><br />Stuart Downing and Ashley Young may be the men to provide Bent with the ammunition he requires to finally nail down a position in Fabio Capello’s team.<br /><br />After the initial reaction, the money paid by Lerner and Villa will be nothing in comparison to the funds coming their way if they can avoid relegation and move up the league once more thanks to Bent’s goals.<br /><br /><a title="Big Free Bet" href="http://www.bigfreebet.com/" target="_blank"><strong>Big free bet</strong></a> will certainly see Bent as capable of helping Villa move away from trouble, a sentiment echoed by the fans.<br /><br />Bent’s decision to move south may prove to be a wise move, despite the anger he has caused amongst the Sunderland fans.<br /><br />Well, that’s the theory, the goals have to come sooner rather than later otherwise all parties concerned will feel the heat.</p>
Tim Mallow's View
2011-01-20T17:34:00Z
Man Utd remain unbeaten after uninspiring performance at Spurs
Tim Mallow's View
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Man-Utd-remain-unbeaten-after-uninspiring-performance-at-Spurs/640086675598794949.html
2011-01-17T18:11:00Z
2011-01-17T18:11:00Z
TMR Football Blogger, Tim Mallows- <br />
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />It didn’t quite live up to the pre-game billing. Sold as the most exciting clash of the weekend, the game failed for large parts to sparkle, and when the excitement did come, it was down to referee Mike Dean rather than either set of players.<br /><br />If this game represents the peak performance of Manchester United this season, then surely defeat will come sooner rather than later.<br /><br />Spurs boss Harry Redknapp aired his doubts about the ability of the Manchester club to go unbeaten after the game, and said it would be a “miracle” were they to achieve it; a sentiment which is echoed across the land.</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0.2in; border: medium none; padding: 0in;"><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/harryredknappandalexferguson.jpg" alt="Harry Redknapp and Alex Ferguson" /></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0.2in; border: medium none; padding: 0in;">Not that Sir Alex Ferguson will care one jot as his United side worked their way back to the top of the table after a tough game. A season unbeaten would represent the icing on the cake for Ferguson’s reign, but remains a by-product of a successful season.<br /><br />Manchester United fans will be worried by the performance however at a clash which was put in context by the protests against Tottenham’s proposed move to the Olympic Stadium in Stratford. Fans gathered to voice their opinions over the move, and Spurs chairman Daniel Levy will not be encouraged by what he saw.<br /><br />Inside the ground, United fans will be concerned that their main threat came from sporadic long range efforts from Wayne Rooney. Returning after a two game absence, his passing was particularly poor, as effort after effort failed to find its target; The former Everton man will remain a concern for his manager. The man who rampaged through teams last season was nowhere to be seen as the passion that has become a trademark of his game was conspicuous by its absence.<br /><br />That is, aside from the Rafael sending off. Manchester United players, namely Rafael and Rooney screamed abuse at the referee following his controversial decision to send the right-back off. A decision that could have gone either way no doubt – Rafael clipped the back of Benoit Assou-Ekotto’s heels as he ran behind him to pick up his second yellow card of the day –but the reaction afterwards was ugly from a United side with previous form.<br /><br />One man returning to the fold did manage to acquit himself well, however. Nemanja Vidic was rock solid at the back as wave after wave of attacks battered the United area as Spurs looked to take advantage of United’s misfortune. The line was tight as they kept the attacking talents of Spurs – Luka Modric in particular- at arm’s length.<br /><br />That United still remain unbeaten after a string of unimpressive performances will worry their title rivals. Although the famous Manchester United swagger is still absent, if it’s found then the teams chasing them will have good reason to fear.<br /><br />Redknapp can look back with pride on good performances around the pitch from those in a <a href="http://www.football-shirts.co.uk/" target="_blank">Spurs shirt</a>, but will still be aware that his side failed again to break their duck against United. They were far the better side in the second half, but failed to break down the United defence so well marshalled by Vidic. The title race continues to be between five clubs, but if Sir Alex can get performances to start matching results, then he is halfway to winning back the Premier League crown.</p>
Tim Mallow's View
2011-01-17T18:11:00Z
Allegri And The Secret To Success At Milan
Ogo Sylla
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Allegri-And-The-Secret-To-Success-At-Milan/223830821884643905.html
2011-01-13T17:28:00Z
2011-01-13T17:28:00Z
By Ogo Sylla<br /><br />With the dismissal of Leonardo from the San Siro hot-seat, in came ex-Cagliari boss Massimiliano Allegri. It was sure to be an uphill task for the young coach as the Rossoneri had been quiet during the summer mercato, bringing in the likes of Mario Yepes [from Chievo], Marco Amelia, Sokratis Papastathopoulos, and Kevin Prince Boateng [all from Genoa]. From this list of sub-par transfers, only Ghana star Kevin Prince Boateng stood out as a player to incite some excitement from the fans.
<p>But the last 48hrs of the transfer window would see the Milan hierarchy pull in astonishing coups, sealing the signature of both Zlatan Ibrahimovic [from Barcelona] and Robinho [from Manchester City]. Surely now the fans would be licking their chops at the spectacle to be put on display at the San Siro, especially after the four goal salvo against Lecce on the opening day of the season when none of the new recruits had taken part.</p>
<p>As is often the case however, reality quickly tore down all illusions and expectations in the opening rounds of the season. A shock 2-0 away loss to Cesena turned out to be a meteoric coming down to Earth for the Rossoneri. Zlatan Ibrahimovic’s penalty could only connect with the upright, souring his debut and leaving the Milan fans without a shred of dignity to hold on to, in a tie where they had been thoroughly and deservedly beaten.</p>
<p>Two consecutive 1-1 draws followed against Catania and Lazio, as well as narrow victories over Genoa and Parma, both attained through solitary goals, meaning that Milan had scored a paltry four goals in their last five Serie A matches. Certainly not the return the fans had been hoping for, considering the type of firepower available to Allegri.</p>
<p>Certainly one could have understood that everyone was at their panic stations, and was Allegri already feeling the pressure. Fumbling through his lineups, Allegri attempted to find the right balance for the side while obtaining a mixed bag of results both domestically and in Europe.</p>
<p>But with the Derby della Madonnina coming, Allegri had to find a solution for his ailing side. The derby against Internazionale in fact did prove to be the turning point for Milan. Playing as the away team, Allegri patched up an unexpected lineup. Pirlo and Ronaldinho were both omitted (the latter having not been in the manager’s plans for some time now) and the midfield trio was comprised of Rino Gattuso, Massimo Ambrosini, and Mathieu Flamini with Clarence Seedorf playing as the trequartista. A 5<sup>th</sup> minute penalty gave Milan the lead as Ibrahimovic slotted home against his former club. From then on, it was a gritty performance and a hard-earned win from the Rossoneri, who had to hold on especially after Ignazio Abate was given his marching orders on the hour mark.</p>
<p>This victory very much encapsulates the Milan side under Allegri today. The ex-Cagliari tactician has sacrificed some of the flair and creativity of the side to add more steel and running power in the midfield. Indeed Allegri has had to do so. His successful Cagliari side was built on this similar template with the three hard-working, ball-winning midfield runners. This has in some ways become the new identity of Milan as well and instilled a real sense of team spirit on the pitch, where the players fight and work for each other.</p>
<p>We see this in both Ibrahimovic and Robinho tracking back at times to get tackles in. Even at the trequartista position, Allegri has sacrificed the fantasistas like Seedorf and Ronaldinho (who has been offloaded to Flamengo) and placed the more dynamic Kevin Prince Boateng in that position, in an effort to add penetration to the Milanese attacking trident. Slowly Allegri has looked to include Pirlo in his midfield, not in his usual central position as a regista, but slightly shunted to the left of midfield. It would be difficult to surmise why Allegri has done so as of yet since Pirlo has been less than prevalent this season. I would have to think that it might be due to Pirlo’s tendency to focus his passing down the left side of the pitch. Thus if he were to start on the left it would offer him a new view of the pitch on the right-hand side, where Ibrahimovic usually cuts in from and therefore inciting Pirlo to play much more direct passes to the front men.</p>
<p>Allegri’s current work with Milan has been nothing short of impressive. As a coach who was known for playing 4-3-3 during his time at Cagliari, he had to re-adapt himself to Milan’s personnel and switch to 4-3-1-2. His decisions have been bold, with Allegri not scared to let the team know that no one is untouchable and that only performances will guarantee a starting berth.</p>
<p>Indeed from the dropping of Ronaldinho and Pirlo (although injuries were also the cause of this in the latter’s case) to the inclusions of youth products Rodney Strasser and Alexander Merkel in the starting eleven, Allegri’s tactics have all, thus far, been vindicated. His next challenge will now be working in the mercurial talent that is Antonio Cassano into his team setup. He has already made a promising start to his Milan career with three game-winning assists whilst coming off the bench in his last two games.</p>
<p>Allegri has changed the identity of Milan. Actually we should say that he has changed the midfield identity. The ex-Cagliari tactician has proven – certainly to me – that it might be time for the Rossoneri to move on from the likes of Pirlo.</p>
<p>The Milan playmaker is a unique player, and there exists no regista in Europe of his class or guile [certainly not on the Peninsula] at this point in time. For now however, the Rossoneri fans will be forgiven for harboring hopes of the Scudetto, sitting at the top of Serie A, albeit only four points ahead of Napoli, and looking to have the personnel to fire them to some domestic success this season.</p>
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Ogo Sylla
2011-01-13T17:28:00Z
Expanding our horizons
Rafa Gonzales
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Expanding-our-horizons/361249137760634420.html
2011-01-13T06:02:00Z
2011-01-13T06:02:00Z
<!-- p { margin-bottom: 0.08in; } -->by Producer Rafa
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">It's Wednesday and World Football Daily hits the midway point of the week in full stride. It's also been an incredibly long day for myself. My morning started dark and early at 2:45am as I was looking to meet Steven at the studio to record a phone interview with PSV Eindhoven Manager, Fred Rutten at 4am. Unfortunately, PSV had to reschedule the interview and we are hoping to speak with Fred on Thursday morning around the same time. PSV are currently in Spain training and taking part in friendly matches during their winter break from the Dutch Eredivisie.</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">With that said, Steven went back to bed and it was a Kenny solo show as Howard is busy with a dentist appointment. No problem though, there was a packed show for the Scotsman to deal with. Before we jumped into the guest, Kenny took the opportunity to break down a Scottish League on Steroids... also known as La Liga. After a bit of anoraking, Kenny lays it out with the statistics and figures to prove his point that La Liga is not what everyone thinks. 70% of La Liga champions are either Real Madrid or Barcelona, leaving not much for the remainder of the 18 teams that make up the table. 10 of those times we find either Real Madrid or Barcelona finishing as runner up to their major rivals. The statistics speak for themselves.</p>
<h5 style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/bobby_mcmahon.jpg" alt="Bobby McMahon" /></h5>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">We kick off our guests today with Bobby McMahon of the Fox Soccer Channel and <a title="Soccer Report Extra" href="http://www.soccerreportextra.com/" target="_blank">Soccer Report Extra</a>. Bobby has always been a good friend of the show and actually took a ride in the back of my truck after we took him to lunch one time while he was taping a Champions League Special for FSC here in Los Angeles. We then went on to kick the ball about in the parking lot of the studio, but I digress.</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Bobby is quite refreshing and we had a lot to discuss with the Scotsman. The man bring's a certain level-headed, cool perspective when reflecting on the major events in football around the world and the chemistry that Bobby has with both of the hosts is incredibly natural. The Scots tackled the transfer news first with Bobby coming to the conclusion that the January transfer window is necessary, but often times, “it can't live up to the hype that the media often builds up”.</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Bouncing around Europe, Bobby and Kenny tried to predict how the major clubs around the world are planning to build up and strengthen their squads. Whether it was the Beckham loan scandal (cause that is what it has turned into), or the AC Milan back line, we jumped from league to league to broadly cover the clubs you wanted to hear about.</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Bobby also asked whether or not it was possibly for Kenny Dalglish to be passed up by the game. His response is that the only way you can be passed up by the game is if you allow yourself to be passed up. But the fact that Dalglish has been so involved in football since leaving his last managerial position, leads Bobby to believe that he is more than capable righting the ship. Altogether, the boys spent 30 minutes talking football, and the interview is well worth the listen when you have a chance.</p>
<img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/StefanKenny.jpg" alt="Stefan and Kenny" />
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Next, we brought on two new guests to the show. Stefan Bienkowski of “The Oval Log” and Julian De Martinis of “The World Cup Blog”. Stefan, a Celtic supporting Glaswegian, talked about the “alternative leagues” around Europe, including the Belgium League, the Eredivisie, and even the Swedish top flight of football. But what was most refreshing was the fact that two the two Old Firm supporters were able to civilly debate the progression and set-backs of the two Glasgow powerhouse clubs. Julian was another breath of fresh air the way he broke down the AS Roma squad. Everything from the Olympic Stadium to the owners of the clubs, Julian was able to talk about it all. And as a Serie A fanatic, Kenny grilled young Julian on all things Serie A and the boy did well to hold his own.</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/OldFirmFight.jpg" alt="Old Firm Set-Backs" /></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Steven and I will try again at getting Fred Rutten on our show Thursday morning. So cross your fingers as we get up to the studio by 4am PST to record the discussion with the PSV Eindhoven Manager. If you are up for it, we will stream the interview live. We also bring on Premier League Commentator Craig Burley, “The Bundesliga Podcast” host Dan Levy, and Writer for “The Ball is Round Blog” Stuart Fuller. Make sure to tune in to catch it all!</p>
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Rafa Gonzales
2011-01-13T06:02:00Z
Waxing Poetic on Spanish Football
Rafa Gonzales
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Waxing-Poetic-on-Spanish-Football/251734193794864436.html
2011-01-12T06:06:00Z
2011-01-12T06:06:00Z
<!-- p { margin-bottom: 0.08in; } --><span style="font-family: Times New Roman,serif;">by Producer Rafa</span>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman,serif;">Welcome to the Tuesday recap of the show. There is no slowing in the feverish pace we got rolling here at World Football Daily and with Kenny and Steven back together, they had some things to talk about and argue over. For one, the Ballon D'Or winner debate rages on with Steven calling Kenny a Neanderthal for an email he sent the staff following the decision yesterday. It's no secret that Kenny is not a fan of the “Ticky Tacka” Passing style of Xavi and this simply outraged Steven.</span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman,serif;">In my own opinion, I have to disagree with Kenny's criticism of the constant passing that he thinks is over kill at times. The thing is though, there is never a pass that is not important, as long as you keep possession. With every pass you make, the opposing team is made to react and move to defend against it. Whether you think a four yard pass to someone directly next to you, who then passes it back only for you to do the same to someone on the other side of you maybe six yards away is worth it or not, the fact is that the other team has to move and defend those movements of the ball. If you play any sport, you know its not easy to defend and when you see someone passing the ball around your team with ease, it mentally breaks you down until you make the mistake which leads to a goal. The constant passing that makes up the Barcelona style of play is a very primordial and predatory attack tactic. Like a wolf pack who is stalking their herd, scaring them into a run and picking out the weakest link, Barcelona finds that chink in the armor of any defense to exploit it.</span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman,serif;">Luckily enough, we had a true expert join the boys to give us his opinion. The great Graham Hunter of Sky Sports in Spain, stopped by the show ahead of a filming session for Sky to give us his perspective and thoughts on the Ballon D'Or winner, as well as telling our hosts and audience about his “best ever tales”.</span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman,serif;"><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/GoldBall.jpg" alt="Ballon d'Or" /><br /></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman,serif;">Graham Hunter recently wrote a piece that made a case for this current Barcelona squad being amongst the best ever and he definitely made his case on our show. “I've seen three absolutely outstanding sides in my life. That'd be Brazil, AC Milan of '88, '89, and '90, and this Barcelona side”.</span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman,serif;">Next, Graham and the boys tried to break down what goes in to the voting process for the Ballon D'Or winner and what arguments there were for Xavi and Messi individually. There is no doubt that Lionel Messi is one of the world's best, especially in the eyes of Mr. Hunter, but there was something inside the Scotsman who wanted the award to go to Xavi. “Xavi has done something magical for me. He has been utterly brilliant for 10-12 years. He represents the entire bottled ethos and brilliance that is Barcelona Football Club.”</span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman,serif;"><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/XaviMessiIniesta.jpg" alt="Xavi, Messi, Iniesta" /><br /></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman,serif;">We now all know who won the award and it is tough to argue. As much as Graham wanted to see the older Xavi win for being the puppeteer behind the Barcelona show, he will be the first to admit that we are bearing witness to a talent beyond anything that could be put into word on paper or on air. “As much as I was hoping for Xavi, when Pep read the name of Lionel Messi, my heart skipped a beat and I recognized that we are privileged to be living in the time of somebody who will become an all-time great, possibly the greatest ever.”</span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman,serif;">Its hard to follow Graham Hunter who speaks so eloquently about the beautiful game, but with any beauty, there is a dark side, and the dark side of the beautiful game is where we went next. Declan Hill, author of “The Fix”, joined the show to discuss the recent allegations of Champions League match fixing between Schalke and Hapoel Tel-Aviv. Unfortunately, this is a part of our game and professional sports in general. Declan is an investigative journalist who has done extensive research on match fixing in the game around the world. If you can bear it, his book will shed light on this dark corner in hopes of clearing out the criminals of football.</span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman,serif;">Lastly, we bring on Max Patrick who commentated for the Serie A in English. The man did well to brighten our spirits back up and cover some tremendous scorelines coming out of Italy, including the 4-4 draw between AC Milan and Udinese as well as the whipping that Juventus took from the weekend. The boys discussed where some of these Italian squads do the majority of their scouting for players, as well as what we can expect to see from the truly dynamic duo of Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Antonio Cassano.</span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman,serif;">There was much more discussed on the show but too much to try and cover in words. World Football Daily gives you an hour and a half of show a day filled with top quality guests that cover the current events from around the game. Today we covered Spain and Italy with a little time spent on England, Germany and even Israel. Tomorrow, we are pleased to bring you the manager of PSV Eindhoven, Bobby McMahon, and two bloggers who write about the game in Europe outside of the UK. The point is that WFD does it like no other regular podcast or blog can do it. If you are not a part of this community, it isn't too late to join.</span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman,serif;"><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/FredRutten.jpg" alt="Manager of PSV Eindhoven, Fred Rutten" /><br /></span></p>
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Rafa Gonzales
2011-01-12T06:06:00Z
Nostalgia factor will help Dalglish
Betfair's View
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Nostalgia-factor-will-help-Dalglish/904151101689925420.html
2011-01-11T15:41:00Z
2011-01-11T15:41:00Z
Betfair Guest Blogger- <br /><br />
<p><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">It may have resulted in yet another defeat but the atmosphere surrounding Liverpool has changed dramatically over the weekend.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">The inevitable departure of Roy Hodgson, who finally lost the support of the board after losing the fans and players a long time before, paved the way for "King" Kenny Dalglish to once again step into the Anfield hot seat 20 years after he was last there.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">The fans were craving for such a move and so, as the players stepped out at Old Trafford on Sunday, there were chants of support echoing from the away section rather vitriolic songs of hate.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">Could you have imagined the reaction of the fans had Hodgson still been around when Giggs netted that early penalty? Hodgson was guilty of many things at Anfield but it wasn't all his fault - except in the eyes of the fans who would have once again turned on the former Fulham man.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">The advantage of Dalglish is twofold, not only is he one of Liverpool's favourite sons, winning seven league titles and three European Cups as both player and manager, but he is also not Hodgson. Such was the pressure surrounding the 64-year-old that the fans were immediately lifted by his departure.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">That feel good factor should bode them well in the coming weeks as they look to push on up the table, although the <a title="Football Scores" href="http://www.goalwire.com/en/livescore/football/" target="_blank"><strong>latest football scores</strong></a> suggest they face a tough task.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">A tricky away match at Blackpool will be Dalglish's first task before he receives a hero's welcome at Anfield for his first home game against, who else, but Mersey rivals Everton. Fans will no doubt be keeping a keen eye on the <a title="GoalWire.com" href="http://www.goalwire.com/" target="_blank"><strong>live match score</strong></a><a href="http://www.goalwire.com/" target="_blank"></a>.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">The Reds support will have been up for that game anyway but fueled by nostalgia and the renewed hope of future glories the negative vibes and vitriolic chants will be consigned, like Hodgson, to the Anfield history books.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;"><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/Dalglish2.jpg" alt="Kenny Dalglish" /><br /></span></p>
<br />
Betfair's View
2011-01-11T15:41:00Z
Is Beckham's career like an Old Dog who should be put down?
Rafa Gonzales
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Is-Beckhams-career-like-an-Old-Dog-who-should-be-put-down/34778860860830223.html
2011-01-11T06:55:00Z
2011-01-11T06:55:00Z
<!-- p { margin-bottom: 0.08in; } --><span style="font-family: Century,serif;">By Producer Rafa</span><br /><span style="font-family: Century,serif;"><br />Welcome back from another great weekend of football. Kenny took the day off to reunite the pair of Steven and Howard. After three years of not seeing each other, the chemistry was still there and the radio was fun to listen to.</span>
<p><span style="font-family: Century,serif;">The matches from Spain and Italy were more than entertaining, they were electric. The 4-4 Milan v Udinese match had you on the edge of the for the entire 90 minutes. Hell, I was so excited by the first half that I actually watched all the half time highlights, commercials and commentary! Then there was the Real Madrid v Valencia match was another “cracker” (as they say), fully equipped with a come from behind win and a Cristiano Ronaldo hat-trick. Plus it was played on ESPN in HD, so not only was the actual match action exciting, but the picture was sexy too!</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Century,serif;">There was tons to talk about coming out of England with 32 FA Cup Third Round matches to run through, not to mention the on going Beckham loan scandal of will he or wont he. We manager to cover both sides of the Atlantic, starting first with Paul Hayward from the Guardian in the UK.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Century,serif;">It's been much too long since we had Paul on last, but that didn't slow things down. He recently wrote a piece on the return of “King Kenny” (Dalglish) to Liverpool Football Club, and his first match was no walk in the park. The Reds took on Sir Alex and Manchester United at Old Trafford, only to fall to the Red Devils 1-0 thanks to a Howard Webb penalty and straight red given to Steven Gerrard. When asked what Dalglish can do from now until the end of the season, Paul said that the new manager “cant solve the problem from now until May, he simply must find those mediocre players and try to raise their level of play to keep Liverpool afloat”.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Century,serif;">Howard pointed out the disconnect in the Liverpool talisman Steven Gerrard, to which Paul commented, “I think Gerrard and Carragher are fed up with carrying this team full of player who don't deserve to wear the shirt”. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Century,serif;">Howard went on to see if Paul had a solution in mind for the Merseysiders. Thinking that the goal was returning to upper echelons of the English Premier League, Paul theorized that “it will take 50 million pounds to return to the top four”.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Century,serif;">Next order of business was that of Mr. David Beckham and his loan deal to Tottenham Hotspurs. For a while now, we here at WFD (mainly Steven) have been speculating the reason behind yet another move for the aging Becks. Was it to try and get the attention of the England Manager in order to get enough caps to beat Peter Shilton's record? Was he scheming to buddy up the future England Manager in Harry Redknapp? Is Los Angeles that bad? Steven wrapped up the sentiments of most serious soccer supporters in this country when thinking about David Beckham when he said, “if David was a dog, we would put him down”.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Century,serif;">Paul on the other hand, holding on to his love and respect for the British footballing icon, simply said that “David Beckham has to be seen in the public eye at all times in order to make his brand survive.”</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Century,serif;">Finally, Steven posed the question of just what the FA Cup meant to Paul. Steven has gone on and on about how he feels the third and fourth rounds only interrupt a good rhythm to the league play and should therefore be held during the week. Cohen also went on about how the tournament has lost it's magic in this modern day. Sadly, Hayward tended to agree when he said that while watching these third round ties, he “feels the creep of indifference when watching” this Cup competition.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Century,serif;">After Paul, we welcomes another new guest to the show in Juan Arango of GolTV and Simplyfutbol.com. Juan discussed the major matches coming out of La Liga, and pointed out that this is the first time in a long time that we are witnessing both Real Madrid and Barcelona really looking strong rather than having one strong and the other not so much. Juan also gave us his thoughts on what Mourinho plans to do to improve his squad, basically stating that there is too much pressure on Ronaldo. Although from his hat trick against Valencia, seems like he has it under control. We also got Juan's prediction for the Ballon D'Or winner, to which he said that if it's based on the most valuable player, it should go to Xavi, but if its the best player, then it should go to Messi.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Century,serif;"><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/MessiBallondor.jpg" alt="Messi Wins the Ballon D'Or" /><br /></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Century,serif;">We wrapped up today with an ESPN Soccernet writer, Jeff Carlisle who has been covering this Beckham loan deal from an American and MLS perspective. He wrote an excellent piece which you can find on our Facebook fan page that gives the MLS credit for having a backbone and trying to keep Beckham from doing whatever he wants. But as we turned on the televisions today, we saw Becks rocking the powder blue training kit of Tottenham, so as Carlisle says, “it depends on who you're asking”. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Century,serif;">The only thing that Jeff could confirm is that Tottenham Hotspurs have on their website that “a training stint is all that has been agreed to, but the situation fluid and ongoing”.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Century,serif;">Make sure to voice your opinion on the David Beckham loan, or any footballing news that tickles your fancy. Today, we also had Anne Ramos (along with two other callers we could squeeze in) called in to gloat to Steven about her Real Madrid team coming back to beat Valencia. So call in and get your club or concerns recognized on the show. </span></p>
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Rafa Gonzales
2011-01-11T06:55:00Z
LA LIGA IS RUBISH BECAUSE MADRID & BARCA ARE GREAT?
By Stephen Kuzner, WFD La Liga Blogger & BarcaBlogger.com
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/LA-LIGA-IS-RUBISH-BECAUSE-MADRID--BARCA-ARE-GREAT/-863917780562810837.html
2011-01-11T05:08:00Z
2011-01-11T05:08:00Z
<!-- p { margin-bottom: 0.08in; } --><span style="font-family: Century,serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">If you read my piece last week on WorldFootballyDaily.com, you’ll know that I think it’s too close to call this year as to which league in Europe is the best between La Liga, the Bundesliga, Serie A, and the EPL. But, there is something I have to get off my chest. The past few weeks, there has seemed to be something out there, every day, in either the print media, internet, TV, or radio labeling FC Barcelona’s brilliance as false because La Liga is nothing more than the SPL on Steroids. If I hear this over-beaten cliché of the SPL on Steroids again I think I’m going to vomit.</span></span>
<p><span style="font-family: Century,serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">The logic seems to go like this. Barca is on pace to break the most points and goals scored in La Liga history. Real Madrid is a hair-length behind them. Thus, the rest of La Liga must be a joke of a league because there are two teams so supremely good on the league table. So in order to be truly legit, Barca or Madrid must prove it on the road at Stoke, Blackburn, Bolton, etc.</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Century,serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">I have a hard time taking these sorts comments as informed, at all, even if it’s coming from the best and brightest at esteemed media outlets like SkySports, The Guardian, or ESPN. I really have to question one’s knowledge of La Liga if they don’t think Villarreal, Valencia, Espanyol, Atlético Madrid, Getafe, Athletic Bilbao, Mallorca, and Sevilla compare with Arsenal, Tottenham, Chelsea, Sunderland, Bolton, Newcastle, Blackburn, and Stoke City. Heck, look at Bilbao, they have Fernando Llorente and Javi Martinez, two players that would walk into any team in the EPL including Manchester United, City, Chelsea, Tottenham, and Arsenal. Bilbao is mid-table in La Liga. And despite Sunday’s losing to Madrid in what may have been the game of the season in Europe, Villarreal seems capable of winning or at least making a run in any of Europe’s leagues.</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Century,serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">The reality of it is that Barca, Madrid, and Borussia Dortmund, for that matter, are outliers this year. This does not mean a league is weak.</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Century,serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">It seems as if EPL supporters are in denial about the few steps backwards their league has taken in two years from when they were the undisputed best league in the world by having three teams in the Champions League semifinals. None of which beat Barca. If the best team or teams in the world aren’t in the EPL, the emotional reaction seems to be to attack those doing well. Attack Barca. Attack Madrid. Attack La Liga as a whole. (I forgot to add that Real Sociedad, Deportivo, Osasuna, and Málaga are some pretty decent teams as well.) </span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Century,serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Should Barca or Madrid be chastised for playing what most people in the world consider either beautiful or breath-taking football and winning at the same time? The haters label Barca as ticky-tacky as if it was anti-football. The ticky-tacky label feels like name-calling. You may not see teams like the current Barca and Madrid score like this for years. Why not simply enjoy the spectacle while you can?</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Century,serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">In terms of talent, if look at the </span></span><strong><span style="font-family: Century,serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="en">Ballon d’Or candidates</span></span></span></strong><strong><span style="font-family: Century,serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></span></strong><span style="font-family: Century,serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">in big four leagues, La Liga has the most with 11 of the 23 (</span></span><span style="font-family: Century,serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="en">Xabi Alonso, Dani Alves, Iker Casillas, Cristiano Ronaldo, Diego Forlán, Andrés Iniesta, Lionel Messi, Mesut Özil, Carles Puyol, David Villa, and Xavi), </span></span></span><span style="font-family: Century,serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">more than double that of the Bundesliga with the next most at 5 (</span></span><span style="font-family: Century,serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="en">Miroslav Klose, Philipp Lahm, Thomas Müller, Arjen Robben, Bastian Schweinsteiger). Serie A has four (Samuel Eto’o, Júlio César, Maicon, and Wesley Sneijder). And finally the EPL has 3 (Didier Drogba, Cesc Fabregas, and Asamoah Gyan). Don’t get me wrong, I know awards are politically, but here is a gap here.</span></span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Century,serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Recent media attacks on Barcelona for accepting a shirt sponsor seem born out of jealously as well. The fact Barcelona still gives money to Unicef, will keep Unicef on the center of the jersey, donates money to many charities that promote freedom and democracy throughout the world, is a membership organization, and serves as a symbol for liberty, still makes it més que un club. I remember people used to tell me U2’s and Springsteen’s music was horrible because the pretentiousness of their politics as being above others. This is ridiculous. The Qatar Foundation on Barca’s jersey does not erase the good they go in the world.</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Century,serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Now, all this being said, I still don’t believe there is a clear “best” league between La Liga, the Bundesliga, Serie A, and the EPL. However, cretinous, half-witted, uninformed attacks on La Liga and Barca reek of xenophobia or misplaced anger. Further, I also don’t think Barca has earned its place on the Mount Rushmore of all-time greats in Club football. In order to displace either the Madrid of the 1950’s, the Bayern and Ajax of the 1970’s, or AC Milan of the 1980-90’s, Barca needs to win the Champions League again with their current vintage. More about this at a later day. Be a lover not a hater. Life’s too short to hate beautiful football.</span></span></p>
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<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><em><span style="font-family: Century,serif;">If you have feedback, I’m at <a href="/http:/www.barcablogger.com" target="_blank">BarcaBlogger.com</a> (Blog), <a href="/http:/www.facebook.com/BarcaBlogger.com" target="_blank">facebook.com/BarcaBlogger</a> (Facebook), or <a href="http://twitter.com/#%21/BarcaBlogger" target="_blank">@BarcaBlogger</a> (Twitter). I accept all soccer-related invites on Facebook and Twitter. During the club season, I write pieces related to La Liga & Spain for World Football Daily on Tuesdays and articles about FC Barcelona for BarcaBlogger.com on Fridays.</span></em></p>
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By Stephen Kuzner, WFD La Liga Blogger & BarcaBlogger.com
2011-01-11T05:08:00Z
The Best Player Interview of 2011
Rafa Gonzales
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/The-Best-Player-Interview-of-2011/-49329730297899708.html
2011-01-10T05:15:00Z
2011-01-10T05:15:00Z
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<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">by Producer Rafa</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Thursday's show was a epic one. No doubt. The Italian Serie A was about to swing back from it's winter break, we had a whole slate of mid week games to discuss, and most importantly, we had our first (former) player interview of the new year in the legendary MLS and US Soccer forward, Taylor Twellman.</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">First off, Howard came back to bless us with his presence. Kenny and Howard shows are always quite refreshing and a change of pace for us all, so we want to take advantage of the six weeks he is here from China. The boys quickly recapped the matches from the day before, including the bore-fest that was Manchester City and Arsenal. (Howard did call the nil-nil though) Once that was taken care of, on to European continent where we met up with our first guest, Kris Voakes.</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Kris Voakes is one of our favorites. Kenny found Kris and his work on Goal.com a while back and has since been one of his go-to-guys when it comes to talking about the Serie A. Often times we catch Kris on the last minute tip, asking him via text message to join us. Whether we catch him off-guard or not, Kris is usually quick to join in and often times brings us a bit of atmosphere from the Stadiums around Italy. He is almost never in front of a computer which is never a problem for the guy. And no matter how deep or challenging the question may be, he always seems to have some say. Today was no different and Kris joined us from inside the San Siro in Milan.</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">After Kris, we were joined by Ped McPartland of the Followtonians podcast. This was the second in a two part special we wanted to bring our audience. You see, the Followtonian podcast were lucky enough to get an exclusive interview with Landon Donovan, who we can all agree has had an exceptionally busy past two years with stints in Germany and England, leading his Galaxy club deep into two MLS playoffs and one final, and had one of the goals to remember for team USA in South Africa this past summer. So of course we grilled Ped on LD's time on Merseyside.</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Donovan wasn't the only topic of discussion for Ped. Kenny wanted to ask about the issue of ground sharing between the two teams in Liverpool to which Ped easily shifted the blame and responsibility to the red side who seem to stall on the matter. Howard also wanted to chime in to see where Everton were going to get their players from if their owner continues to say that there is no money to spend in the transfer window. The response was simple and direct, “the youth system”.</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Both opening guests were great, but the best part of our day was when we finally got on Taylor Twellman, former superstar of the MLS and New England Revolution, as well as the US Mens National Team. We had been trying to track down Taylor for the past year and a half but every time we asked his former club, The Revolution, he was always battling an injury and was unable to join us. Since his retirement this past year, we went back to our friends at the Revs and sought out his contact. Luckily enough it came through big time and Taylor was nice enough to make time for us. This was huge because as you all know, Kenny was a big fan of Taylor and has always been. Plus with Steven out for the day, this meant that he could conduct the interview with out being interrupted or cut off by his co-host.</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Kenny took advantage of Steven not being there and jumped right into it with Taylor. There was no stone left unturned with Kenny and the former forward was not afraid to answer any questions. Kenny asked what Taylor thought of the MLS's Designated Player Program, to which he responded, “I don't believe in it”.</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Kenny also wanted Taylor's opinion of the MLS's playoff platform to which he didn't mind except for this small issue: “(Real) Salt Lake can't be the East Conference Champions and the New York Red Bulls can't win the west”. (Seems reasonable)</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">As the interview went on and on, and the player spoke more and more openly about all the important matters regarding our professional soccer league here in the States, we all just felt as though this guy should be having an office in the higher-ups of the MLS hierarchy. After sipping the Twellman MLS Kool-Aid, Kenny had to hear what his American Soccer Hero had to say about the National team. I think we have all been a little harsh on Coach Bob Bradley and when Kenny asked Taylor his thoughts on the recently re-signed coach, we were all expecting him to slate the guy most likely. Anything but we came to find. Taylor actually backed the USMNT coach 100%, saying “Bob Bradley is the man”.</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><img style="vertical-align: middle; margin: 5px;" src="/images/blog/BobBradley.jpg" alt="Bob Bradley" /></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">The way Taylor went on about how Bob putting in the hours of research, match viewing, and training with the enormous pool of player the United States has, the more it made me re-think my personal position on him. Has my views changed on Bradley? Not completely, but I will say that I have a greater appreciation for the man after hearing some of the things Taylor Twellman mention.</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">If you were unable to catch the interview live, go back and listen to it. Taylor Twellman was incredibly open and candid about his career, his future, and his hopes and dreams for the Revolution, the MLS, and the United States National Team. By far, Taylor was the best interview we had thus far this year.</p>
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Rafa Gonzales
2011-01-10T05:15:00Z
2010: The Sublime And The Ridiculous
Matt Switalski of World Soccer USA
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/2010:-The-Sublime-And-The-Ridiculous/-415211479385518462.html
2011-01-10T04:11:00Z
2011-01-10T04:11:00Z
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<p class="Body" style="padding-top: 0pt;">The moments that will linger in my mind for years to come from the last year in soccer:</p>
<p class="Body"><strong>Best Team:</strong> <span class="style">Barcelona</span>........Playing the greatest soccer seen for generations. My favorite part of every Barca game is when they line up for the anthems. You have the opponent, who looks like a real team, and then you have the side in the Barca strip, who look like a U-10 team. You think the ball boys have lined up in some practical joke. And then the whistle blows and the other team can’t get the ball. When they do, it is recovered immediately. But the fact that Alves, Xavi, Iniesta, Villa, Pedro and Messi are all no taller than 5 foot 7? God, I love that. That’s why soccer is the greatest game. It doesn’t matter how big and strong you are. It’s not a steroid league. If you have the skill, you can play. And if you can play like a dream, you get what we have the privilege of watching week in and week out. Enjoy it while it lasts. Glory of this calibre is fleeting.</p>
<p class="paragraph_style"><strong>Greatest Achievement:</strong> Spain........<span class="style_1">It’s not that they won the World Cup. Greece won Euro 2004. No one cares or honors that win. It’s the context in which Spain won that matters. This side was not as good as the team that won Euro 2008. That side was based upon the possession game and having the best striker in world soccer, Fernando Torres, up front as the match winner. But this team was 2 years older and was to find, during the tournament, that Torres was of little value, due to lack of form and fitness. And they lost the opener, after dominating the Swiss. At that point, the team and Vicente Del Bosque faced a moment of truth. They could fold like so many Spanish sides had in the past, or they could get on with it. They persevered. They played their game. Not as beautiful as Barcelona’s game, but compelling and positive in a sterile environment. With all other teams devoted to the counter, the negative gospel of Mourinhoism, Spain flew the flag for positive, attacking soccer, when even the Dutch gave in to the false glory of “victory” over honor. Xavi said that Spain were fighting for the soul of soccer. He was correct. But it’s a battle that needs to be fought every day.<br /></span></p>
<p class="paragraph_style"><strong>Best Game:</strong> <a title="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oH1qzWHt_Qg" href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oH1qzWHt_Qg">USA 2 SLOVENIA 2</a>............<span class="style_1">You could choose any of a number of Barcelona games: the </span><a class="style_1" title="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v5YnAF_7ht4&feature=related" href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v5YnAF_7ht4&feature=related">5-0 destruction of Real Madrid</a><span class="style_1">; the </span><a class="style_1" title="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qdxfH14mCL8" href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qdxfH14mCL8">3-1 victory over Villarreal</a><span class="style_1">; or the </span><a class="style_1" title="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fikt9Syh_hE" href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fikt9Syh_hE">3-1 win over Athletic</a><span class="style_1"> Bilbao @ San Mames. But for those of us who were there, the US v Slovenia match @ Ellis Park was unforgettable. A dominant US crowd. An incredible venue in Ellis Park. Everything pointing to a huge win. And everything indicating that the US had to win to advance in the group (because England would obviously thrash Algeria). And then a miserable first half, down 2-0 at halftime, with the American section on the verge of an ad hoc reenactment of Jonestown. Then, an incredible goal by Donovan, and the long, nervous wait for an equalizer. Would it ever come? It came, as glorious as Donovan’s first, from Bradley. Could we get a winner? We did, through Edu; and then it was taken away. Unforgettably compelling in a way that only the World Cup can be. And a perfect table setter for............<br /></span></p>
<p class="paragraph_style"><strong>Best Moment:</strong> <a title="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2bg8vQKN4m8" href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2bg8vQKN4m8">Landon Donovan’s Winner v Algeria</a>..........<span class="style_1">Back from Johannesburg, I watched the game in my living room. Surely we would put the Algerians to the sword? Actually, no. The US were fortunate not to be down 1-0 per usual, with only the crossbar to thank. But after that, it was all American, but with no payoff. The obligatory stolen goal with the offside call on Dempsey before halftime, and the obligatory blown sitters by Altidore, but still confident that the goal and the win was coming. Algeria was strangely content to play it safe. And the clock kept ticking. Finally, it got to stoppage time, and I sat there in a daze; we’re actually going out of this tournament. After all this, we’re going out. Unbelievable. Well, I didn’t know what unbelievable was. After a rare foray by Algeria, a magnificent release from Howard, a jailbreak by Donovan, Altidore and Dempsey. And one of the great goal calls of all time by Ian Darke. The greatest single moment in US soccer history. Goal, goal, USA!<br /></span></p>
<p class="paragraph_style"><strong>Best Goal:</strong> <a title="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o7bgotz_hOE&NR=1" href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o7bgotz_hOE&NR=1">Lionel Messi Opener, Argentina 4 Spain 1, 9-7-2010</a>..........<span class="style_1">There were any number of brilliant goals scored during the year. </span><a class="style_1" title="http://www.yohttp://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y-gm53DjUsMutube.com/watch?v=RILXyTiZfNI" href="http://www.yohttp//www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y-gm53DjUsMutube.com/watch?v=RILXyTiZfNI">Eto’o at Stamford Bridge vs. Chelsea</a><span class="style_1">; </span><a class="style_1" title="http://http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3hxD-sMm03gwww.youtube.com/watch?v=Y-gm53DjUsM" href="http://http//www.youtube.com/watch?v=3hxD-sMm03gwww.youtube.com/watch?v=Y-gm53DjUsM">Robben @ Old Trafford</a><span class="style_1"> v United; </span><a class="style_1" title="http://www.youtube.chttp://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-zU0YZwYZigom/watch?v=Fikt9Syh_hE" href="http://www.youtube.chttp//www.youtube.com/watch?v=-zU0YZwYZigom/watch?v=Fikt9Syh_hE">Tshabalala @ Soccer City v Mexico</a><span class="style_1">; </span><a class="style_1" title="http://http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RILXyTiZfNIwww.youtube.com/watch?v=-zU0YZwYZig" href="http://http//www.youtube.com/watch?v=RILXyTiZfNIwww.youtube.com/watch?v=-zU0YZwYZig">Suarez @ Port Elizabeth v South Korea</a><span class="style_1">; and just about every goal Lionel Messi scored during the year. So why pick possibly the least important goal he scored all year, in a meaningless friendly? Because it’s Argentina against the world champions, in two of the greatest strips in the world, at the Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires, and mostly, because it epitomizes the genius that is Messi. Note the angle, the lack of time, and how well Reina has come off his line; watch the ball float like a feather in the air. How did he do it? Once you’ve seen it, how can you ever forget it?<br /></span></p>
<p class="paragraph_style"><strong>Best Player:</strong> Lionel Messi.............<span class="style_1">In a world all his own. Had the honor to see him in person as he choreographed a 4-1 destruction of a good South Korean side at Soccer City. He was incredible. Put it another way: we are lucky to be watching one of the all time greats of the game, who is nothing less than brilliant game after game. His name is Cristiano Ronaldo. How good does Messi have to be when no one even mentions Ronaldo any more?<br /></span></p>
<p class="paragraph_style"><strong>Greatest Influence:</strong> Johann Cruyff........<span class="style_1">Barcelona are playing the greatest soccer in generations, and their coach dedicates their greatest win, 5-0 over Real Madrid, to his idol, Cruyff, and the principles he laid down for the club. The World Cup final was Holland v Spain, both disciples of Cruyff. Even the Dutch apostasy in the final was instructive, as Cruyff lectured his countrymen after the final like an Old Testament prophet. A difficult character, probably hard to like for many; but on the side of the Angels in his philosophy of attacking, possession soccer.<br /></span></p>
<p class="paragraph_style"><strong>Worst Influence:</strong> Jose Mourinho........<span class="style_1">Catenaccio with good quotes. If both sides simply sit back and wait to counter, you have what Valdano described years ago: shit on a stick. That paradigm of physicality, fitness, positional discipline and counter-attacking, mixed with the obligatory serial professional fouling, cheating, feigning of injury and shameless gamesmanship reflects the moral swamp that is Mourinhoism. <br /></span></p>
<p class="paragraph_style"><strong>Worst Moment:</strong> <a title="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XH7wVdai9T0" href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XH7wVdai9T0">Alonso and Ramos Red Cards, Real Madrid v Ajax</a>.........<span class="style_1">You recall the scenario: Real have ruthlessly dispatched Ajax, are top of the Group and have a dead rubber approaching against Auxerre with several players still on yellow cards, which will not be extinguished after the group phase. With a few minutes left in the game, what is there to do? If you’re Mourinho, that’s easy: tell Xabi Alonso and Sergio Ramos to intentionally get sent off for time wasting, thus insuring they serve their one game suspension against Auxerre and are ready for the round of 16. You have to watch it to appreciate how slimy it was. It’s one thing to pull this nonsense in Serie A or in Europe with Inter. It’s expected. But to have players the quality and class of Alonso and Ramos, in the colors of Real Madrid, behave like this is so low rent that it is the greatest testament to the Special One’s dark arts. You see, Mourinho is the devil. The devil is witty, he’s attractive, he’s successful, he’s fun to hang out with, and he wins trophies. And then one day you realize you’ve lost your soul. Is it worth it? Perez and Valdano are starting to wonder.<br /></span></p>
<p class="paragraph_style"><span class="style_1"> </span><strong>Biggest Fraud:</strong> Qatar’s 2022 World Cup Bid..........<span class="style_1">Back when Dennis Miller was funny, he used to say, “I don’t mind if you lie to me, just don’t bullshit me like I’m Montel Williams”. I don’t mind Qatar being awarded the World Cup. But can we agree that it is already clear that there was never any intention of hosting the tournament in the summer? If they had said ahead of time that if you award us the tournament we can only hold it in the winter and we will have to disrupt the European club calender for the 2020-21, 2021-22 and 2022-23 seasons, they would never have been awarded the tournament. Qualifying will have to be earlier. The Confederations Cup will have to be in January of 2021. The World Cup will be in January of 2022. The players will need the month of December off. The leagues probably won’t resume until March. Can we admit that all the talk of cutting edge cooling technologies was abject nonsense? When did the FIFA Exco become an Arab Marketplace and how many times are the Qataris and their minions going to haggle over the terms they agreed to?<br /></span></p>
<p class="paragraph_style"><span class="style_1"><br /></span></p>
<p class="paragraph_style_1" style="padding-bottom: 0pt;">Matt Switalski is a 16th Circuit Judge in Macomb County, MI. He is the Managing Editor of <a title="http://www.worldsoccerusa.com" href="http://www.worldsoccerusa.com/">www.worldsoccerusa.com</a>. He is writing a memoir of his journey to South Africa 2010.</p>
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Matt Switalski of World Soccer USA
2011-01-10T04:11:00Z
The Prince of Darkness returns to his Domain
Rafa Gonzales
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/The-Prince-of-Darkness-returns-to-his-Domain/171081513862182221.html
2011-01-05T21:23:00Z
2011-01-05T21:23:00Z
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<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">By Producer Rafa</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">The title says it all. The Prince of Darkness returns to the mic to dole out his dark views on the footballing world. For the first time in a long time, we have someone on the show who absolutely adores Manchester United, and not because they are the Yankees of the football. It is a true pleasure to welcome back Howard Rogers to the World Football Daily studio. Many of the “old school” listeners will remember Howard from the old days. He is back in the States for about 6 weeks after spending the past 18 months of teaching in China.</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Howard in studio meant that Steven was taking the day off. No worries though, the game goes on and so does the show. Kenny and Howard start the show off today discussing the most recent transfers and rumors of moves for various clubs, especially focusing on Edin Dzeko. Kenny reminded Howard that they really fancied the Bosnian back before Howard left for China, claiming that they knew how strong and talented the player was over a year ago. After the silly season transfer talk, Howard moved the conversation on to the Chelsea-bashing segment which lasted a good ten minutes, much to the disdain of our Assistant Producer James who loves his Blues. Howard refered to Daniel Sturridge as “waste of $20 million pounds in a blue shirt”.</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Eventually the ranting and raving would have to end and the boys moved on to our guests. There is no better way to brighten up the show than by having the lovely, incredibly knowledgeable and opinionated Rebecca Lowe of ESPN UK. Of course she is a fan favorite, as well as a personal favorite of mine, but Howard shows a bit of extra love because of her personal friendship with the manager of Manchester United, Alex Ferguson.</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">The three discussed all things football in the Premiership and England in general, including Rebecca's favorite club, Crystal Palace. Kenny actually put her on the spot when he asked Ms. Lowe if there was a transfer that she'd really like to see go thru during this January transfer window. Rebecca replied, “I'd love to see David Beckham go on loan to Palace for me”. Although slightly joking, she didn't seem to care about the bigger rumors swirling about in the top division.</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Next we brought on Eric Howell from the Followtonian Podcast and <a title="Followtonians" href="http://www.followtonians.com" target="_blank">Followtonians.com</a>. Eric and his co-host, Ped McPartland, recently had on Landon Donovan of the LA Galaxy to talk about the time he spent on Merseyside with the Toffees. Not a fan favorite for simple novelty, Donovan added a new dimension to Everton while he was there and unlike his other attempts at football in the top flight across Europe, Landon made an incredibly positive impact while player for the blue side of Liverpool. Howard and Kenny didn't want to simply focus on the past of David Moyes' side, and discussed the hardships of an Everton club who have struggled to find their footing in the Premiership this season thanks to a handful of injuries to an already thin squad. With Moyes' saying that the Toffees were not looking to spend any cash in the January transfer window, the second half of the season looks like a true uphill battle for Everton.</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">It was quite refreshing to have a different (slightly darker) perspective on game in Howard Rogers and we will more than likely bring him back in to the studio for a couple more guests appearances in the next six weeks. That means you should stay tuned into the show to catch every minute.</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">We bring on Followtonians Podcast's host Ped McPartland onto our show tomorrow to get the reaction to the Landon interview from across the pond. Ped is a Liverpool native who got their recent interview played on the BBC Merseyside Radio. We also will have an epic interview with US Soccer Legend, Taylor Twellman. And since the Italian Serie A gets back into the swing of things, we bring on Kris Voakes to preview this weekend's matches. For more information, go to <a title="World Football Daily" target="_blank">WorldFootballDaily.com</a>, follow us on Twitter <a title="@wfootballdaily" href="http://twitter.com/#!/WFootballDaily" target="_blank">@wfootballdaily</a>, or join our facebook <a title="WFD Facebook Fan Page" href="http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/World-Football-Daily/321521090514" target="_blank">fan page</a>.</p>
Rafa Gonzales
2011-01-05T21:23:00Z
Arsenal finally show they have mettle required for Premier League glory
Betfair's View
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Arsenal-finally-show-they-have-mettle-required-for-Premier-League-glory/-560825760074256954.html
2011-01-05T15:36:00Z
2011-01-05T15:36:00Z
Betfair Guest Blogger- <br /><br />
<p><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">Arsenal may not be favourites in the title race <a title="Betfair Premier League" href="http://www.betfairfootball.com/premier-league/" target="_blank">football betting</a>, but not many pundits or experts are prepared to write Arsene Wenger's talented young side off just yet, despite the fact that in recent years the Gunners' hopes of winning the title have been almost entirely discounted by this stage of the campaign.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">With the likes of Wilshere, Djourou and Song all starting to fulfil the immense potential that Wenger believed in to the point that he steadfastly avoided splashing the cash to bring in reinforcements to his squad, despite widespread criticism from pundits, experts, and even the most passionate of fans, the Arsenal manager is finally starting to see his team repay that faith.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">The Gunners have, however, still shown a slightly vulnerable side in some of their big games, despite their comprehensive defeat of Chelsea at the Emirates, leaving Wenger hoping that he is correct to assert that his team can take advantage of the home games they have remaining against their main rivals for the title. Should Wenger's side manage to display the kind of performance that they achieved against Chelsea when they face the likes of Manchester United and Manchester City, then we may yet see the biggest shock of the Premier League era, a Premier League triumph for Arsene Wenger's home-grown Arsenal side. The <a title="Betfair Football" href="http://www.betfairfootball.com/" target="_blank">football predictions</a> suggest tonight's game against Manchester City will be crucial for their ambitions.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">However, with Wenger's side yet to lift a trophy of consequence since their 2005 FA Cup Final victory, their season may yet depend on their ability to capitalise firmly upon their tag of favourites to win the Carling Cup, a trophy that would perhaps give Wenger's side the belief required to win the Premier League.</span></p>
<br />
Betfair's View
2011-01-05T15:36:00Z
More Than Your Average Tuesday Show!
Rafa Gonzales
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/More-Than-Your-Average-Tuesday-Show!/367044507912491772.html
2011-01-05T01:44:00Z
2011-01-05T01:44:00Z
<p>Day two of the New Year for World Football Daily. Once again we had a great show, loaded with guests. But before we got stuck in with our guests, the boys covered the current events from the world of football. The thing that Steven had to rant about first is one of his favorite topics, Mr. <strong>David Beckham</strong>. After reading tons of articles on this possible loan deal for David to play at <strong>Spurs</strong> until the start of the MLS season, Steven came to this conclusion: “Everything about this deal from the David Beckham perspective says ego, selfishness, and he doesn't care about anybody but himself.” Cohen goes on to say that “it isn't about the love of the game, it's about breaking Shilton's record”.</p>
<p>Eventually the boys moved on to other topics like the midweek matches in England. Fulham face a must win game at Craven Cottage against West Bromich Albion. (We will get more of a Fulham perspective when we speak to Phil Mison) Our friends at Birmingham City face a must win against an upstart Blackpool squad who look to reach the safety point in the tables of about 32 points. Manchester United have a tricky fixture at home against Stoke City. Then the boys toss about the idea of actually moving the MLS season to follow the rest of the world by having it run through the dead of winter. Before they get to the guests, they quickly discussed the signing of new Inter Milan Manager Leonardo. Kenny made sure to point out how whoever took over Jose Mourinho's position would have a hell of a time proving his worth and as soon as there was a slip or a chink in the armor, that person would be dissected under the microscope from anyone and everyone. To be honest, it almost makes you feel bad for Rafa Benitez.</p>
<p>Our first guests was the ESPN Soccernet Blogger for <strong><a title="Soccernet Fulham FC Blog" href="http://blogs.soccernet.com/fulham/" target="_blank">Fulham FC</a></strong>, Mr. <strong>Phil Mison</strong> who is actually attending the Fulham v WBA match tonight. The main reason we bring on Phil is to dissect just where Fulham have gone wrong this season compared to last. After making it to the Europa League Final against Atletico Madrid, they now see themselves in a relegation battle. When posed the question of where Fulham have gone wrong from last year to this year, Mison responded by saying that “(Fulham) haven't rebuilt the midfield. The engine room at the club in not firing”.</p>
<p>Mison was more than correct when he made that statement. He actually goes as far to say that Roy Hodgson recognize this weakness in the summer, but when Liverpool came calling and he left, the club did not have the time to rebuild their midfield and instead are left with an aging Murphy and a noneffective Duff. In fact, by this point in the season last year, Duff and Murphy combined for a dozen goals, where this year, they have yet to score a goal between them. Mison and the boys really take the time to breakdown his club inside-out, including letting us know the relationship between the manager and the chairman, and the team and the manager. For more, listen to the interview or check out his work <a title="Fulham FC Soccernet Blog" href="http://blogs.soccernet.com/fulham/" target="_blank">here</a>.</p>
<p>Next on the guest list, we were joined by <strong>Tom Dart</strong> of the <a title="The Times Online" href="http://www.thetimes.co.uk/tto/news/" target="_blank">Times</a> in London. The man is a wizard when it comes to cover the top flight across England and Steven and Kenny really try to grill him on the issues that matter. Steven started with the tough questions by asking Tom what is going wrong with Chelsea. “After speaking with Carlo, he says the (Chelsea) need players”. The only problem is that Tom wasn't sure if “they will be able to buy anybody worth making a difference for Chelsea for the price Roman will be willing to spend”. Cohen went on to ask what was the one thing that turned the Chelsea season. “Injuries and not enough squad depth at Chelsea. Their players with potential are simply not ready to make an impact. Chelsea have become a pretty average side.”</p>
<p>Kenny was more concerned with Liverpool and their Manager Roy Hodgson. “With all that is against Roy right now at Liverpool”, Kenny asked, “why doesn't he leave?”</p>
<p>“Pure pride” replied Tom. As any manager who is down in the Premiership, their pride is what keeps them going.</p>
<p>The boys went on to get Tom's opinion on David Beckham's possible move to Spurs and Tom Dart really seemed to think that Becks could add another dimension to the Tottenham squad for however long he was there. They also discussed the “sack-race” with regards to who might be out next. They also went into detail of the Edin Dzeko transfer which is not complete, but Manchester City has agreed to terms with the Bosnian player. Dzeko should sign by tonight or tomorrow.</p>
<p>Last to join the show, guest-wise, was a new addition to the show in <strong>Dave Trotter</strong>, the American writer who covers the French Ligue 1 for his site <a title="Ligue 1 Talk" href="http://www.ligue1talk.com" target="_blank">Ligue1talk.com</a>. Although the French league is in the middle of their winter break, there is still a lot going on in the incredibly entertaining league where there is no outright leader in the tables. The Champions League draw for French teams is the first topic of discussion for our new guest.</p>
<p>Steven made sure to point out the rematch between Lyon and Real Madrid. According to Trotter Lyon really have a chance to move on. Lyon have started off slowly, but they have since picked it up and can really give Mourinho and Real Madrid a run for their money. As for the Marseille v Manchester United tie, although Marseille are no pushovers, United have a better chance of moving on than if they had drawn Lyon. “Marseille are not a strong home team”, but Trotter warned, “Fergie shouldn't take them for granted.”</p>
<p>The incredible thing (also the entertaining thing) about Ligue 1 is that the team from 1-10 are only separated by 5 points. The supporters of Ligue 1 love this fact. “They love that at the beginning of the matchday, no one knows who will take over the lead.” Dave quoted this from his recent interview with Matt Spiro. “We see the superstars of tomorrow in today's matches”. For more on Ligue 1 or the French Ligue 1 commentator interview of Matt Spiro, check out Dave's site, <a title="Ligue 1 Talk" href="http://www.ligue1talk.com" target="_blank">Ligue1Talk.com</a>.</p>
<p>Finally, the boys call upon the Aussie Arsenologist, Nick Mason for a little mid-week “I know the Score”. Check out the boys picks by going to the highlights section of the <a title="World Football Daily" target="_blank">worldfootballdaily.com</a> website. We look forward to Rebecca Lowe and Eric Howell of Followtonians tomorrow. Thursday we will have Eric's partner in podcasting, Ped, as well as Taylor Twellman to discuss his plans for life after soccer. Do tune in for all the action.</p>
<p> </p>
Rafa Gonzales
2011-01-05T01:44:00Z
PEACE ACCORDS: NEITHER LA LIGA NOR THE EPL IS THE BEST LEAGUE
By Stephen Kuzner, WFD La Liga Blogger & BarcaBlogger.com
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/PEACE-ACCORDS:-NEITHER-LA-LIGA-NOR-THE-EPL-IS-THE-BEST-LEAGUE/321844381098598883.html
2011-01-04T17:53:00Z
2011-01-04T17:53:00Z
<p>I was going to kick-off the year with a piece about how La Liga was world’s strongest league thus far this year (yes, stronger than the EPL). But, on a further look, I have come to the conclusion that trying to rate one of the big four leagues in Europe (i.e. La Liga, Bundesliga, Serie A, and EPL) as the best League is next to impossible. All it has seemed to do recently is stir-up things and generate some genuine hatred of other leagues that one may otherwise come to enjoy. Each one provides a little more of something that the others don’t with the skill of La Liga, the goal-generating creativity of the Bundesliga, the tactical Nous of Serie A, and the speed, strength, and bravery of the EPL.</p>
<p>How can you compare the leagues legitimately? Compare the players, coaches, and teams between leagues in a qualitative manner? This method is fun, but subjective in nature and thus victim to opinion. It’s hard for people to objectively rate leagues in relation to their favorite. SkySports’ Andy Gray recently said that he’d like to see Barcelona prove it on the road at places like Stoke and Blackburn where climate and being kicked-off the pitch would truly vindicate Barca’s greatness. I guess he didn’t know that Barcelona already accomplished a similar task against Osasuna (where it had snowed) and Bilbao, two teams that are every ounce as tough as Stoke and Blackburn.</p>
<p>Why doesn’t the conversation include the Bundesliga and Serie A more? Borussia Dortmund’s pace this year is on par with Barcelona and Madrid. It is an absolute shame they aren’t in the Champion’s League this year. Also, has everyone forgot that Intermilan is the reigning Champions League winner? I know Jose Mourinho is gone, but respect is due.</p>
<p>What about a quantitative or statistical way of comparing the leagues like UEFA’s coefficients or IFFHS’s rankings of the top leagues in the world. This seems like a good idea. Numbers can be manipulated, but they can also at least serve as a guide. The problem with a strictly numerical method would be that you don’t have enough matches between teams on the bottom halves of tables playing against clubs from other leagues in a meaningful encounter. Data gained from head-to-head games between teams in the UEFA Champions League and Europa League only include teams in the top half of a league. So even if they don’t give a great indication of how strong leagues are from top-to-bottom, they would give an idea at least how the top halves of tables may rate.</p>
<p>What would be great is to have league challenges the way they do US Men’s NCAA Basketball like where all the teams in the ACC and Big Ten play each other for one game based on how they finished the season before. Although such a thing, where all the teams in La Liga and the EPL played each other based on their table position the year before, would give at least give bragging rights for a year. Good luck working this into an already congested fixture list.</p>
<p>If we are to determine the best league in Europe in terms of the strength of its teams from top to bottom, the best way may be to stack-rank them altogether on one table and see what it looks like. Would any league stand out? Please keep in mind with the point totals that the EPL teams have played about three 2-3 more games on average so their point totals are skewed a little higher. So where is the best soccer being played? Please check below, this took some time to anorak.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">#. La Liga (Pts) – Bundesliga (Pts) – Serie A (Pts) - EPL (Pts)</span></p>
<p>1. Barcelona (46) - Dortmund (43) - AC Milan (36) - Man Utd (41)</p>
<p>2. Real Madrid (44) - Mainz 17 (33) - Napoli (33) - Man City (41)</p>
<p>3. Villarreal (36) - Leverkusen (33) - Lazio (33) - Arsenal (39)</p>
<p>4. Valencia (31) - Hannover (31) - Juventus (31) - Tottenham (36)</p>
<p>5. Espanyol (28) - Bayern (29) - AS Roma (29) - Chelsea (35)</p>
<p>6. Atlético (27) - SC Freiburg (28) - Palermo (27) - Sunderland (30)</p>
<p>7. Getafe (26) - Frankfurt (26) - Inter (23) - Bolton (29)</p>
<p>8. Athletic (25) - Hoffenheim (25) - Sampdoria (23) - Stoke (27)</p>
<p>9. Mallorca (24) - Hamburg SV (24) - Udinese (23) - Liverpool (25)</p>
<p>10. Sevilla (23) - Schalke (22) - Genoa (21) - Newcastle (25)</p>
<p>11. R Sociedad (22) - Nurnberg (22) - Chievo (21) - Blackpool (25)</p>
<p>12. Deportivo (21) - K'lautern (21) - Catania (21) - Blackburn (25)</p>
<p>13. Hercules (19) - Wolfsburg (19) - Cagliari (20) - Everton (22)</p>
<p>14. Racing (19) - Bremen (19) - Bologna (20) - West Brom (22)</p>
<p>15. Osasuna (17) - St Pauli (17) - Fiorentina (19) - Aston Villa (21)</p>
<p>16. Málaga (16) - Cologne (15) - Parma (19) - West Ham (20)</p>
<p>17. Levante (15) - Stuttgart (12) - Cesena (15) - Wigan (20)</p>
<p>18. R Zaragoza (13) - M'gladbach (10) - Brescia (15) - Fulham (19)</p>
<p>19. Almeria (13) - None (0) - Lecce (15) - Birmingham (19)</p>
<p>20. Sporting (12) - None (0) - Bari (11) - Wolves (18)</p>
<p>So what stands out? Barcelona, Borussia Dortmund, and Real Madrid are having historic seasons that are statistical outliers. If Villarreal were to win their next two games they’d have more points that Manchester United. It’s hard not to look at the tables and think La Liga isn’t the greatest power at the apex of the tables. But, does that make it the best overall? Being your resident WFD La Liga blogger, I unfortunately have to say no. The way the TV money is distributed in Spain alone assures a somewhat top heavy table. Oddly, in the much more equitable Bundesliga, we see a 10 point gap between #1 Dortmund and #3 Mainz just like #1 Barcelona and #3 Villarreal in La Liga.</p>
<p>Conversely, when looking at Serie A and the EPL we see two leagues with more parity. Should they be stronger overall because of this parity? Not necessarily. Serie A and the EPL play more defensively. That should result in more draws and thus less total points on the table. Serie A has a bit more draws with 45 than the Bundesliga’s 30 and La Liga’s 33. However, the EPL has a staggering 102 draws thus far this year. Parity may be more a result of styles of play than competitive balance.</p>
<p>If we look at the bottom of the tables, we see a lot of bad teams and underperforming teams. What is Stuttgart and Fulham doing down there? Does anything standout in the UEFA Champions League and Europa League spots or even the middle of the table? The more you look at things, not much jumps out.</p>
<p>So which league is the best? I say that you can’t legitimately tell which league is best top-to-bottom. And, I don’t think it really matters. Let’s call a truce to demeaning and dishonoring other leagues and enjoy them all; Ligue 1 and Eredivisie included. Peace I say.</p>
<br /><span><br />If you have feedback, I’m at </span><a title="BarcaBlogger.com" href="/http:/www.barcablogger.com" target="_blank">BarcaBlogger.com</a><span> (Blog), </span><a href="/http:/www.facebook.com/BarcaBlogger.com" target="_blank">facebook.com/BarcaBlogger</a><span> (Facebook), or </span><a title="@BarcaBlogger" href="http://twitter.com/#!/BarcaBlogger" target="_blank">@BarcaBlogger</a><span> (Twitter). I accept all soccer-related invites on Facebook and Twitter. <span>During the club season, I write pieces related to La Liga & Spain for World Football Daily on Tuesdays and articles about FC Barcelona for BarcaBlogger.com on Fridays.</span></span><br />
By Stephen Kuzner, WFD La Liga Blogger & BarcaBlogger.com
2011-01-04T17:53:00Z
Welcome to 2011, Love World Football Daily...
Rafa Gonzales
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Welcome-to-2011,-Love-World-Football-Daily.../891282760557403491.html
2011-01-04T15:57:00Z
2011-01-04T15:57:00Z
<p>It's great to be back first and foremost. We jump back in to the swing of things immediately. The boys were refreshed and recharged and full of news that they wanted to rant and rave about. The question was where to begin.</p>
<p>Right off the bat, Steven and Kenny jumped into the crumbling club that is Chelsea FC. Poor James our Audio Engineer is not “having a laugh” anymore. In fact, he no longer comes to work smiling, rather he joins us everyday talking about his beloved Ducks from the NHL who are at least doing well.</p>
<p>If you ask Steven what his thoughts were on his former club, “They're done!” he says. “Chelsea will finish 5<sup>th</sup> this year, just as I predicted at the beginning of the season”.</p>
<p>Kenny doesn't quite agree completely. He does believe that Chelsea will not retain the title this year, and he continues to slag-off John Terry who although scoring the third goal for Chelsea, his ineptitude leading the back line, also let in the third goal for a struggling Aston Villa side.</p>
<p>Without dwelling on the Wigan draw, the boys went back to talk about the Arsenal beating Chelsea and whipping Birmingham more recently. The question is whether or not Manchester United will slip up. Arsenal also have a big mid-week fixture against Manchester City Millionaires who will visit the Emirates this week. This match will really spice up the title chase for sure.</p>
<p>On today's show we kicked things off with our good friend and Chief Liverpool Football writer (for both sides of Merseyside), Rory Smith from the Telegraph. Although for the most of the beginning of the interview, we keep on the Chelsea and Arsenal debate. They discussed whether or not Chelsea would open the purse during this January transfer window, whether or not Roman will be the owner of Chelsea next year, and just how far they will go in the Champions League. When they asked him about whether Arsene was to blame for Arsenal not winning trophies, his response was that “Arsenal tend to build for tomorrow, where United and Chelsea tend to want to win today”. The problem with Arsenal and Arsene is that they are not always focused at the task at hand.</p>
<p>Next on, Paul MacDonald of Goal.com, their Spanish La Liga correspondent. With five games from Sunday and a whole slate of game for Monday, Paul was perfect to have on and break down the current state of La Liga. Although with Paul being a Scot, we had to touch on the 40<sup>th</sup> Anniversary of the Ibrox Disaster and the Old Firm on Sunday. Our final guest of the day is Ross Dunbar, ESPN Soccernet blogger for Rangers, who also recapped the Old Firm with it's touching ceremonies and paid respect for the 66 lives that where lost on January 2<sup>nd</sup>, 1971. Both sides where lead out of the tunnel by their respective club captains during that time period, as well as a minute of silence before kick off. All together, it was a very respectable remembrance from both clubs and their supporters, however depressing the 0-2 loss Rangers suffered at home.</p>
<p>Tons more to come from WFD this week including Tom Dart of the Times, the ESPN Soccernet Fulham Blogger Phil Mison, and the Ligue 1 Talk writer Dave Trotter all on Tuesday. We have the two host of Followtonians who recently interviewed Landon Donovan on Wednesday and Thursday. Rebecca Lowe joins us Wednesday and the US Soccer legend Taylor Twellman will joins us on Thursday. Do stay tuned in.</p>
<br />
Rafa Gonzales
2011-01-04T15:57:00Z
Who next for Sheffield United?
Tim Mallow's View
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Who-next-for-Sheffield-United/214645169709666513.html
2010-12-30T21:15:00Z
2010-12-30T21:15:00Z
TMR Football Blogger, Tim Mallows- <br /><br />Ever since Gary Speed left Sheffield United nearly 3 weeks ago, The Blades have been very coy about possible replacements for the Welshman. Not many managers have come out and voiced their interest in the Bramall Lane hot seat, but with 2011 approaching and with The Blades lying just 4 points above the Championship drop zone it seems the club need to appoint a manager quickly in order to instil a bit of stability within the club.<br /> <br />No one can really blame Speed for giving up his post at Sheffield United after only 4 months in charge; it’s every manager’s dream to manage their country, you might even get to pit your wits against those talented players in a <a title="Spain shirt" href="http://www.football-shirts.co.uk/spain-shirt.html" target="_blank">Spain shirt</a><strong></strong>, after all!<br /> <br />But it does seem as though he has left United somewhat in the lurch, as their search for a new manager has thus far proved fruitless. Here we look at some likely candidates:<br /><br />John Carver – Currently in caretaker charge of Sheffield United following Speeds resignation; Carver has a home win and a defeat to date. Looking for his first full-time managerial role in England after several caretaker roles, Carver has the backing of most of the Sheffield United squad and would be the cheapest and most logical option for the Blades.<br /> <br />Sean O’Driscoll – The bookies favourite for the role at Bramall Lane; O’Driscoll is currently manager of over-achievers – Doncaster Rovers. If he was appointed, this would involve United paying a hefty compensation sum to ‘Donny’ who will fight tooth and nail to keep their manager. O’Driscoll’s reputation has been enhanced by heavily successful spells at Bournemouth and now Doncaster and he could well be tempted by a move to a more lucrative, well known club.<br /> <br />Phil Brown – Brown was the early bookies favourite for the role, but has slipped down the betting odds over the past week. Having been out of work since he was sacked by Hull City the best part of a year ago; Brown, who has an already impressive Championship promotion with Hull City on his CV, may be just what the Sheffield United board are after. However with a history of dividing fans views, he may not be the man that is going to create the stability needed to guide this club back to the Premier League.<br /> <br />Micky Adams – Rumour has it that Sheffield United have asked for permission from Adams’ current employer Port Vale; therefore it would appear he is now the favourite for the role. Adams has the experience and knowledge that ‘The Blades’ would require from their future manager; but they would have to take into account Adams’ failings at that level previously before looking to appoint him. <br /><span style="font-size: 11pt; color: #1f497d;"><br /></span>
Tim Mallow's View
2010-12-30T21:15:00Z
Wenger battles to keep Denilson
Betfair's View
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Wenger-battles-to-keep-Denilson/475147757167771283.html
2010-12-21T15:00:00Z
2010-12-21T15:00:00Z
Betfair Guest Blogger- <br /><br />Arsenal's young midfielder Denilson has refused to rule anything out when asked about his future.<br /><br />The Brazilian has failed to cement a regular first team spot at the Emirates but is still highly thought of by manager Arsene Wenger.<br /><br />The Gunners boss wouldn't be keen to lose the 22-year-old who has been showed his exciting potential since breaking into the senior squad in 2007. If the figures being reported are true, then Wenger may be tempted to part with the youngster for around £10 million. The <a href="http://www.betfairfootball.com/">football predictions</a> suggest he could soon be on his way.<br /><br />Denilson has insisted he is still happy at the club but with Barcelona and Milan reportedly interested, has refused to rule anything out.<br /><br />"I am presently happy with Arsenal but I am a professional player and I can never discard anything in my future," he said.<br /><br />Barca seems to be leading the race to sign Denilson with Steve McClaren's Wolfsburg also linked with a possible move. With the abundance of world-class central midfielders at the Nou Camp, Denilson would possibly be in a worse situation with regards to regular first-team action than he is now if he did decide to leave. <br /><br />The Brazilian has been unlucky this season with the emergence of Jack Wilshere as Arsenal's first choice holding midfielder. Denilson had been a mainstay in the Gunners first team for the past two seasons but with Wilshere producing consistently quality performances, the Brazilian will have to be patient if he wants to remain at the Emirates. <br /><br />Wenger would do well to hang on to Denilson with a busy second half of the season just around the corner. The Arsenal squad is going to be tested over the next few months, as the club look to challenge for both European and domestic honours and the <a href="http://www.betfairfootball.com/premier-league/chelsea/chelsea-backed-in-after-copenhagen-draw-171210.html">football odds</a> reflect this.<br /><br />Arsenal are extremely well placed to end their silverware drought, sitting second in the league heading into the busy festive period. The club has been handed one of the toughest draws in the next round of the Champions League, as they face Barcelona. With this ever maturing squad at his disposal, Wenger will be as confident as he has ever been heading into these vital few months.
Betfair's View
2010-12-21T15:00:00Z
Stepping Outside the United Kingdom for a Change
Rafa Gonzales
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Stepping-Outside-the-United-Kingdom-for-a-Change/-136651748535448529.html
2010-12-20T19:00:00Z
2010-12-20T19:00:00Z
So the weather really took it's toll on the game across the UK. There were several matches postponed which took the focus outside of the Premiership for a change. This type of situation is not such a bad thing by the way, especially for those English-centric fanatics... like Steven. Having football freeze up across England allowed for those of us here in the States to get re-introduced to League 1 in France, as well as the Bundesliga which both reminded us how entertaining their respected leagues are. <br><br>This past year, Steven and Kenny have really tried to branch out and expand our footballing minds out side of the English game, and this weekend really made them prove their metal. Coming out of the weekend, Steven came to the conclusion that Italy just isn't as entertaining of a product to that of the English and Spanish top leagues. Citing a lack of goals and a game spent primarily battling it out in the middle of the park, Steven said that he wasn't satisfied watching the Serie A over the weekend and found more interest watching his new found love of Barcelona, or the quick paced, goal-fest that is the German Bundesliga. Kenny quite appropriately countered this argument with the age-old retort that the Italian league is a tactically defensive league with a consistently higher level of skill per player making for a tougher competition game in, and game out. And the Scotsman has a point. So there aren't fixtures full of goals coming out of Italy, but if you take the time to really watch the individual plays, the regular fighting for possession and control of the midfield, and the creative genius that comes from the few goals that are produced, Italy still has a brilliant product that only needs to be spread by those who understand... (listen to a Kris Voakes, Carlo Garganese, or any Calcio and Coffee podcast)<br><br>Guest wise, we kick off the show with the walking quote machine and humble servant of the Magical Messi-ah, Mr. Ray Hudson from GolTV. Steven knew the attachment for Barcelona from Ray and the Catalonian Giants were the first topic of discussion. Bringing back the argument for great team ever in this Barça side, Steven asked Ray his opinion on the matter. "We are witnessing a very special period in time with this Barcelona squad". <br><br>Kenny tried to shift gears away from Spain and Barcelona a bit by trying to see what was Ray's Goal or Moment of 2010 was? Unfortunately for Kenny though, Mr. Hudson took it right back to Barcelona and the "Little Magician" who doesn't have one single glorious highlight, "his masterpiece is yet to come, and that is what makes every touch of Lionel Messi's so special. Every time Messi in on the ball, you are expecting greatness." Eventually the boys switched gears and got Ray to talk a little Bundesliga which he also commentates for GolTV.<br><br>Our second guest of the day was the freelance Italian football journalist Matthew Barker. We are lucky to have several top quality guests to cover all things football out of Italy, and Matt is no exception. He brings a comfortable conversational knowledge about all matter on and off the pitch in Italy, and it shows. Immediately, Kenny wanted to talk about his beloved Cassano who is looking to make a move soon. Then Steven jumped over to Inter and the current job situation of Rafa Benitez. And after 25 minutes of grilling him, the boys gave him the hardest question of the night when they asked what he had planned for the holidays. It took a while for Matt to answer, but "sitting, drinking lots of wine, and watching rubbish holiday television" was his plans for Christmas.<br><br>We were supposed to bring on Craig Burley of ESPN, but he was pushed to Tuesday at 9:15am PST. We also bring you Phil Ball of ESPN Soccernet. He wrote a really powerful piece of Barcelona's visit to Espanyol over the weekend and the warm reception that Andres Iniesta had from usually spiteful and cold Catalonian rivals. You can find it on our Facebook Fan Page. Do make sure to tune in as we bring you some big shows to close out the year.<br><br>Cheers,<br>Rafa<br><br>ps: Happy Birthday Mom!<br><br><br><br>Look for WFD on Twitter <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/wfootballdaily">@wfootballdaily</a> or join the World Football Daily <a href="http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/World-Football-Daily/321521090514">Facebook Fanpage</a>. <br>Keep up with all things WFD online, anytime at <a href="http://www.worldfootballdaily.com">WorldFootballDaily.com</a>worldfootballdaily.com.
Rafa Gonzales
2010-12-20T19:00:00Z
Doing it for the Kids!
Rafa Gonzales
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Doing-it-for-the-Kids!/-374836528400601686.html
2010-12-17T19:00:00Z
2010-12-17T19:00:00Z
Today's title is inspired by one of the better humans in this world, Santino Quaranta. Santino is holding soccer camps for kids as a positive option for them to keep off the streets. So wanting to get in on the action, I figure the best way for our show to show our compassion for the cause is by dedicating today's show to the children of the world (cue the UNICEF show partnership deal we stole from Barça). But for reals, if you are on the east coast and you want to join one of Santino's camps, check out his website <a href="http://www.santinoquaranta.com">here</a>. Right, well onto to the real business. <br><br>Another epic week from World Football Daily. We closed the week off strong with a pretty stellar line up and a two hour show. No, you will not find a single show/podcast/ or other out there that will bring this type of content to you daily. And if you don't have time to listen to the entire show, catch the interviews segmented out so you can listen to the portions of the show you want most. Either way, we bring you the coverage you need with a style and comfort that you cannot find elsewhere.<br><br>Today, we kicked off the show with one of the most respected and loved commentators in the game, Derek Rae of ESPN UK. Although he is fighting off a cold, he joins us from Scotland to give his opinion on the the UEFA Champions League Knock-Out Round of 16 which brings a few tasty ties. They could have talked about the Arsenal drawing a rematch against FC Barcelona, but as Steven said in the show, "let's talk about the draws which are competitive." <br><br>Derek admits to following Spurs closely as one of the more refreshing and entertaining sides in the competition. He also steps out on a limb to say that Shakhtar Donetsk may be the upset of the round as they face off against AS Roma. We spent an easy 15 minutes discussing the draw with one of the best announcers for the Champions League, but we also covered the play from the Scottish Premier League... or lack thereof due to the weather. When we asked Derek about the giant clash between Chelsea v Manchester United match on Sunday, he felt that the return of Super Frank would be enough.<br><br>After Derek, we were joined by Alex Dimond of <a href="http://www.goal.com">Goal.com</a> who covers the nPower Championship. Although with such major current events going on in the top flight of England, we couldn't help but touch on the Big Sam dismissal, the Carlos Tevez and Roberto Mancini showdown, and of course the Chelsea and MUFC match up. Kenny made sure to bring up the new owners of Hull City and the three boys discussed the hopeful return of Queens Park Rangers to the Premier League.<br><br>Finally, we wrap up the guests today with Santino Quaranta of <a href="http://www.dcunited.com/">DC United</a> and the <a href="http://www.ussoccer.com/">USMNT</a>. DC United had a tough season last year and Santino wants nothing more than to rebound and bring his club back to where it should be in the upper echelons of the MLS. Kenny brought up the recently added Dax McCarthy to the United line-up and Santino spoke nothing but complements of the young midfielder, claiming that "Dax may just have what it takes" to control the midfield.<br><br>Santino recently launch his new website, <a href="http://www.santinoquaranta.com">SantinoQuaranta.com</a> where you can keep up with all things in the world of Santino, including his new soccer camps. The United player went on about how he wanted to help kids keep in line, off the streets, while giving them a fun and healthy alternative. Kenny recognized the passion within Santino and had to pose the question of whether or not Santino would consider a coaching career after his playing days are done. Santino said he loved working with kids, but wasn't sure how good he would be "if I can't get my daughter to listen to my coaching".<br><br>We close the Friday show with a little "I know the Score" with the Aussie, Nick Mason. He joins us from New York and sounded eerily confident in his Gooners who found out today that they would be taking on Barcelona in the Round of 16 Knock-out phase of the Champions League. What ever the Kool-Aid he is drinking makes for quality radio. We kick off Monday's show with Craig Burley, so make sure to tune in. <br><br><br><br>Look for WFD on Twitter <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/wfootballdaily">@wfootballdaily</a> or join the World Football Daily <a href="http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/World-Football-Daily/321521090514">Facebook Fanpage</a>. <br>Keep up with all things WFD online, anytime at <a href="http://www.worldfootballdaily.com">WorldFootballDaily.com</a>worldfootballdaily.com.
Rafa Gonzales
2010-12-17T19:00:00Z
Crucial clash for both sides at Ewood Park
Tim Mallow's View
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Crucial-clash-for-both-sides-at-Ewood-Park/-554274818394238374.html
2010-12-17T16:08:00Z
2010-12-17T16:08:00Z
TMR Football Blogger, Tim Mallows- <br><br>From what initially looked like an ordinary league fixture a few weeks back the match between Blackburn and West Ham has suddenly taken on greater significance - for both sides.<br><br>For Rovers, the pressure has been piled on club by new owners, the Rao family. They put the Lancashire outfit under the spotlight this week as far as <a href="http://www.goalwire.com/">live scores</a> are concerned after they sacked boss Sam Allardyce, claiming he didn't fit in with their future plans, despite the club sitting in comfortable mid-table.<br><br>Those plans apparently involve £5million to be spent in the January transfer window in order to turn the club into a top five outfit. Considering Man City nearly 20 times that amount to make fifth last season suggests the new hierarchy at Rovers don't quite appreciate how tough the Premier League is - just staying in the division ins achievement for the majority of the clubs in the league, Blackburn included.<br><br>For now Steve Kean takes the reign and given the week that has gone, he will need to hit the ground quickly if he is to stay in a job himself.<br><br>West Ham boss Avram Grant is arguably under more pressure. The Israeli has been given three games to save his job by the Hammers board, with this trip to Blackburn followed up by an away day at Fulham and a home clash with Everton.<br><br>Given <a href="http://www.goalwire.com/en/livescore/football/">Livescore football</a> pundits note that the club has only won two games all season and none of those away from home it seems almost certain that Grant will be out of a job come the New Year.<br><br>Ironically the sacking of Allardyce is rumoured to have forced the West Ham board to turn up the heat on Grant, with the former Bolton boss seen as the ideal man to dig them out of the large hole they find themselves in.<br><br>By beating West Ham, Blackburn could do their old boss one last favour accelerating the departure of Grant, leaving the door open for big Sam to save the day for the Hammers.
Tim Mallow's View
2010-12-17T16:08:00Z
The WFD Champions League Mock Draw
Rafa Gonzales
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/The-WFD-Champions-League-Mock-Draw/-364874557843451874.html
2010-12-16T19:00:00Z
2010-12-16T19:00:00Z
In today's show we did our official World Football Daily Champions League Mock Draw which we take with the utmost seriousness. Here is how the Champions League Round of 16 Knock-out Stage would look like if they left it up to Steven and Kenny, as performed in our live show.<br><br>Copenhagen FC v Schalke 04<br><br>Valencia v Shakhtar Donetsk<br><br>Arsenal FC v FC Barcelona<br><br>AC Milan v Chelsea FC<br><br>Lyon v Bayern Munich<br><br>Inter Milan v Real Madrid<br><br>Marseille v Manchester United FC<br><br>AS Roma v Tottenham Hotspurs<br><br>There are some real juicy match-ups here and one can only hope to see a rematch between Arsenal and Barcelona, Ancelotti go back to his old club AC Milan, or ever better, seeing Jose return to whip Rafa and his old Inter Milan squad. Would be magical, to say the least.<br><br>In today's show, we had some fantastic guests, including Miriam Elder of the Global Post to discuss what she is seeing in Russia with Fan rioting running rampant in the 2018 World Cup Host nation. Later in the show, we are joined by Eoin O'Callaghan who also gives his two cents on this issue. The Fox Soccer Channel correspondent also gives us his hopes for the Champions League draw and tells us what to expect this Sunday when Manchester United travel to London to take on Chelsea.<br><br>We also had a brilliant 30+ minute chat with current Vancouver Whitecaps' defender, and former Watford FC hero, Jay DeMerit. He is a brilliant man who is "humble and grounded" as described by Steven. Jay opened up on his time spent in England, telling us stories of what it was like to be beaten by Manchester United and a Giggsy goal at Old Trafford, as well as how it felt to be promoted into the Premiership. The defender also went into great detail about his Confederation Cup experience beating Spain and how come the US kept leaking in early goals in their South African World Cup campaign. Well worth the listen if you have the time.<br><br><br><br>Look for WFD on Twitter <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/wfootballdaily">@wfootballdaily</a> or join the World Football Daily <a href="http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/World-Football-Daily/321521090514">Facebook Fanpage</a>. <br>Keep up with all things WFD online, anytime at <a href="http://www.worldfootballdaily.com">WorldFootballDaily.com</a>worldfootballdaily.com.
Rafa Gonzales
2010-12-16T19:00:00Z
Steven's Personal Mock Draw
Steven Cohen
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Stevens-Personal-Mock-Draw/-654379916507902153.html
2010-12-15T22:00:00Z
2010-12-15T22:00:00Z
I have just done my mock draw at home:<br><br><br>Copenhagen v Spurs<br>Arsenal v Schalke 04<br>Valencia v Chelsea<br>Marseille v Bayern Munich<br>Inter Milan v Real Madrid<br>Roma v Manchester United<br>Lyon v Shakhtar<br>AC Milan v Barcelona.<br><br>Looking forward to Thursday's mock draw in the show. <br><br>Cheers,<br>Steven<br><br>Look for Steven on Twitter <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Chelcfc">@Chelcfc</a> or join the World Football Daily <a href="http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/World-Football-Daily/321521090514">Facebook Fanpage</a>. Keep up with all things WFD online, anytime at <a href="http://www.worldfootballdaily.com">WorldFootballDaily.com</a>worldfootballdaily.com.
Steven Cohen
2010-12-15T22:00:00Z
Our Favorite Things: The World Football Daily Podcast
Nicholas Deleon
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Our-Favorite-Things:-The-World-Football-Daily-Podcast/-109384936462531838.html
2010-12-11T22:00:00Z
2010-12-11T22:00:00Z
<a href="http://www.crunchgear.com/2010/12/03/our-favorite-things-the-world-football-daily-podcast/">Crunch Gear's Holiday Gift Guide</a><br><br>Written by <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/nicholasadeleon">Nicholas Deleon</a> on December 3rd, 2010<br><br>As part of our gift guide stuff this year we're also doing something called "Our Favorite Things." I think these things can be from all walks of life and not exclusively tech-y. In any event, one of my favorite things, then, is the World Football Daily podcast. I know I've mentioned it before in passing, but I guess this is my opportunity to say why it's one of my Favorite Things.<br><br>World Football Daily <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/WFootballDaily">(here's their Twitter)</a> is a daily soccer podcast hosted right here in the US of A. Los Angeles, to be exact. It's a premium podcast, so you have to cough up something like $40 per year to listen. But really, that works out to 11 cents per day. You couldn't buy two drops of coffee for 11 cents.<br><br>It's hosted by two fine gentleman, Steven Cohen, by way of England, and Kenny Hassan, by way of Scotland. I am in agreement with Cohen that this incarnation of FC Barcelona is one of the best teams in history. It's certainly the best team I've ever seen. It's kinda difficult to watch some random, mid-table Premier League game after having seen Barcelona over the past three years.<br><br>I guess I could consider myself a longtime listener, going back several years to its swinging bachelor days on Sirius.<br><br>The best is that it's not just a podcast where the hosts blather on and on about their chosen subject, something endemic to many podcasts out there, but they actually talk to people. Proper soccer journalists-off the top of my head, you've got Phil Ball, Andy Brassell, Tim Vickery, Oliver Kay, and Neil Ashton-to talk about the sport.<br><br>If none of those names mean anything to you, well, that's why you listen to the show. Trust me when I say these guys, and all the other guests they have, truly know their stuff.<br><br>Yesterday they had some English sports-business guy who tried to explain why Fifa picked Russia ahead of England to host the 2018 World Cup. Just as Formula 1 is now looking eastward to new markets, so, too, is Fifa. What's so wrong about wanting to build up the game in Russia?<br><br>Same thing with Qatar. I laugh at people who think Qatar won't have the most advanced stadiums in the world at the 2022 World Cup, or that somehow the tournament will now be an unmitigated disaster just because it's hosted in the Middle East. Again, F1 says hi, and I don't see Bernie Ecclestone complaining about the facilities over there.<br><br>More to the point, it's the World Cup, not the Western World Cup. Spread that baby around! Spending a few weeks in a place I've never been before sounds infinitely more exciting than riding the Path train from Penn Station to Red Bull Arena again.<br><br>But yeah, World Football Daily is certainly one of my Favorite Things out there, and I highly recommend it.<br><br>Find this article and more at <a href="http://www.crunchgear.com/">CrunchGear.com</a>
Nicholas Deleon
2010-12-11T22:00:00Z
BARCELONA IS WINNING THIS YEAR'S 6 POINT PR RACE
Stephen Kuzner
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/BARCELONA-IS-WINNING-THIS-YEARS-6-POINT-PR-RACE/-951848293034694893.html
2010-12-09T22:00:00Z
2010-12-09T22:00:00Z
By Stephen Kuzner - WFD Fan Correspondent<br><br>In European football, every country's top flight league has a title race, sack race, relegation battle, domestic cup, and sends teams to compete in the Europa League and Champions League. However, outside of what happens on the pitch, there is a PR race that goes on as well; a psychological battle played-out in the media about what team is the best. A little over a month ago the world was in love with Chelsea and Real Madrid. How things can change fast.<br><br>If you read my stuff you know I'm a Barca-homer. But, the numbers don't lie. Barcelona scored 21 goals in last 5 games with none conceded. That's an average score of 4.2 goals to nil against Almeria, Panathinaikos, Real Madrid, Osasuna, and FK Rubin Kazan. So far this year in La Liga, they scored 41 goals and let in 8 for a whopping goal difference of 33 after 14 games. They are on pace to record 100 out 114 possible points and to top last year's La Liga all-time record of 99. These numbers are staggering.<br><br>But, the stories this year will make Barca seem larger that life in the annals of history if they can win La Liga and the Champions League, two pieces of silverware that will be hard-fought to get. Let's start with the 0-3 win over Osasuna this past weekend where having to take a train and then coach because of an unexpected air controller's strike in Spain. They arrived shortly before the scheduled kick-off time and then played Osasuna off the pitch with 74% of the possession. Now remember, this was supposed to be the potential let-down after the high of trouncing Real Madrid in El Clasico on Monday 5-0. Nevertheless, pushing the kick-off back 45 minutes created an uproar in the Madrid press claiming pro-Barca bias.<br><br>Or you can take the next game in the Champions League against Rubin Kazan where Rubin needed to win in order to finish ahead of FC Copenhagen. Rubin had Barca's number the past two years in the Champions League as well. Then factor in that Barcelona had already won the group so they would feature a number or Barca B players including Víctor Vázquez (23), Andreu Fontàs (21), Marc Bartra (19), Jonathan dos Santos (20) and Thiago Alcântara (19). You wouldn't have guessed a 2-0 win with 79% possession and goals from Centerback Andreu Fontàs and attacking-midfielder Víctor Vázquez. It's almost as if Barca B won a Champions League game.<br><br>As if PR couldn't get any better for Barcelona, Lionel Messi, Xavi Hernandez and Andres Iniesta were listed as the three finalists for the FIFA Ballon d'Or; this being the first year of merging the FIFA World Player of the year and Ballon d'Or. To many it was a shock that Wesley Sneijder did not make the shortlist having won the treble with Intermilan and advancing The Netherlands to the World Cup Final. Messi and Ronaldo are the two best players in the world, but judging by a body of work this year, most expected the shortlist to Xavi, Sneijder, and Diego Forlan.<br><br>Yet, things skill got better for Barcelona in the press this week with FIFA Top Class Referee (the highest level of referees on the planet) Claus Bo Larsen naming Real Madrid's Ronaldo as his 'most annoying player' because "He's always out to get a cheap free-kick, especially at home". This may appear like a minor swipe at Ronaldo, but there is a belief in Italy that the press can be manipulated to increase the points of a team as much as six by exerting pressure on officiating. Spain is not Italy, however, Barcelona is leading in La Liga's title race over Real Madrid by two points as well as in the PR race that may be worth an extra bonus six points.<br><br><br>If you have feedback, email me at skuzner@gmail.com or <a href="http://www.facebook.com/home.php#!/skuzner?v=wall&ref=ts">Facebook me.</a> During the club season, I write pieces related to La Liga on Tuesdays and articles about FC Barcelona on Fridays. During El Clásico, I only live, breath, and sleep El Clásico.
Stephen Kuzner
2010-12-09T22:00:00Z
THE ART OF SEDUCTION AS BY RUSSIA AND QATAR
Stephen Kuzner
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/THE-ART-OF-SEDUCTION-AS-BY-RUSSIA-AND-QATAR/-570821384350479550.html
2010-12-06T22:00:00Z
2010-12-06T22:00:00Z
By Stephen Kuzner - WFD Fan Correspondent<br><br>So the World Cup is going to Russia and Qatar. Being an American La Liga addict, I had my heart broken twice. It kind of leaves you scratching your head at first. Putin decides to snub the voting by not coming and it has no impact. Qatar, a monarch of just over a million people, promises to essentially build and air-condition enough facilities to hold the World Cup in a desert and also build stadia that can be broken down afterward and donated to less fortunate countries. To my best estimation they are going to build the equivalent of a few cities all within a few miles of each other. Talk about an Oasis in a desert. This seems more like science-fiction than politics. The easy thing to do is scream corruption, greed, and graft. Not that I am denying that these things didn't happen, especially after all that is being discovered only a few days after the vote, but there is one thing Russia and Qatar understood very well...<br><br>Winning the privilege to host a World Cup is about seduction.<br><br>Seduction? What are you talking about Kuzner? This isn't a Dear Abby column! Sorry, but in whatever field you dwell professionally whether it politics, business, religion, science, etc, seduction is at play whenever you have to "woo" or court someone. You may need to court someone for a variety of reasons: to back your beliefs and opinions, buy your product or service, or vote for your legislation. People call this all sorts of things from relationship management to lobbying to influencing to selling. Regardless of what you call it, seduction is about getting someone to do what you want.<br><br>FIFA's process to decide who is going to host a World Cup is not democratic. There are twenty-some FIFA executives that vote in three rounds eliminating one country at a time until a winner is determined, unless someone wins an absolute majority. This is more like Survivor, Big Brother, or the Bachelorette. It's silly to call this process democratic. It's a reality-show with out the cameras. This sort of process is vulnerable to the sweet words of a suitor willing to say and promise anything to win a rose ... I mean someone's vote.<br><br>What did the voters want in a host nation: legacy, readiness, history, culture, potential revenue, or the ability to line their pockets? I don't know and would not believe what they say. However, I do know that they heard what they wanted to from Russia and Qatar whether it be over dinner, behind closed doors, or in presentations. Somewhere along the line, voters were seduced by words and promises of Russia and Qatar. They knew the voters' wants, needs, and desires better than the other courters.<br><br>Nevertheless, now that the votes have been cast and the accusations and recriminations have begun, I can accept the winners because both Russia and Qatar both have the potential to do something special. I won't accept that they are technically better that Spain and the US and definitely not England. As an American FC Barcelona supporter, I dreamt of Spain and the US. A great trip and a great stay at home. But, I am reminded of the feeling when I wasn't selected in a starting 11 knowing that I was streets ahead of the number 10 chosen before of me. Good luck Russia and Qatar, you've got a lot of work ahead of yourselves.<br><br><br>If you have feedback, email me at skuzner@gmail.com or <a href="http://www.facebook.com/home.php#!/skuzner?v=wall&ref=ts">Facebook me.</a> During the club season, I write pieces related to La Liga on Tuesdays and articles about FC Barcelona on Fridays. During El Clásico, I only live, breath, and sleep El Clásico.
Stephen Kuzner
2010-12-06T22:00:00Z
RUSSIA AND QATAR: LEGACY AND LEGACIES
Matt Switalski of World Soccer USA
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/RUSSIA-AND-QATAR:-LEGACY-AND-LEGACIES/-257551133384199901.html
2010-12-03T17:00:00Z
2010-12-03T17:00:00Z
There was an earthquake in Zurich yesterday, and the aftershocks will continue for many years. We all knew that Russia and Qatar were in the mix for the 2018 and 2022 World Cups, but it's one thing to speculate about it; to actually see England get only two votes and for the United States of America to actually lose out to Qatar.........well, these are interesting times we live in. Let's measure the fallout:<br><br>LEGACY? I'VE GOT YOUR LEGACY RIGHT HERE..... <br><br>For England and the US, to paraphrase Goebbels, every time they hear the phrase "legacy" they must reach for their revolvers. In reality, "legacy", like "rotation", is an excuse for doing what Sepp Blatter and his ilk want to do in the first place. And as soon as "legacy" no longer suits Blatter's needs, it will be dropped for another fig leaf. But for an organization as paranoid and under siege as FIFA, the concept of legacy is manna from heaven. Whey should England or America get it a second time when places like Russia and Qatar can be improved by a selfless and idealistic FIFA? Russia can be modernized and liberalized and perhaps the whole Middle East will be brought into the modern world culturally by FIFA's bestowing of this gift. Yes and Jack Warner has some reasonably priced tickets to sell to you. But it is a great public relations move by Blatter, and many point to South Africa as proof of the merits of legacy. I was there. I loved it. But as I write this, the Greenpoint stadium in CapeTown has no tenant and if that's the case, how do you think they're doing in Rustenburg, Nelspruit and Polokwane? If your great legacy is simply memories, then what did you really build? How do you say "white elephant" in Arabic?<br><br>ENGLAND ARE IN NEED OF AN INTERVENTION...... <br><br>I admire and revere England and the British Empire. England, its history, customs and principles are everything that is good in the modern world. But England must stop debasing itself. You ask a girl out once and she says no, you should move on. But if you're dumb enough to ask a second time, only to have her lead you on and then dump you in the most humiliating fashion, then you know where you stand with her. Given that England couldn't beat Germany for 2006 even though Germany had hosted it more recently should have told you what you needed to know. But to not get a single vote from your own confederation speaks volumes. They don't like you. And you know what, that's o.k. Have some self respect. And step back and appreciate that the Sunday Times and Panorama acted in the best traditions of your nation. Could those pieces have been published in Russia or Qatar? FIFA should have been thanking the Sunday Times. To have your future King and current PM groveling for favor from the likes of Ricardo Teixeira, Jack Warner and Sepp Blatter is obscene. They have only contempt for you. And like any battered spouse, the more you return to him, the more he'll beat you. You're better than that. Next time Jack Warner wants to make money off you by having your national team come to Trinidad for a friendly, tell him to stick it where the sun don't shine. Next time Brazil wants to play a friendly in London because it's so convenient, tell Teixeira to bugger off. Next time Manchester United or Liverpool win the Champions League and Blatter wants you to go to Japan or the UAE for the World Club Cup, send your reserve team. And unleash the press on this bunch of vipers. You are better than this. In the long run, FIFA did you a favor. <br><br>RUSSIA COULD ACTUALLY BE FANTASTIC AS A HOST.... <br><br>Per WikiLeaks, US diplomats regard Putin's Russia as a mafia state, utterly corrupt and with little chance of improvement. Can anyone seriously argue with that assessment? That said, if you read the Bid Evaluation Report, this could be very interesting. There will be 5 clusters: Central (Moscow), Northern (St.Petersburg & Kaliningrad), Southern (Sochi, Rostov-on-Don, Krasnodar), Volga (Yaroslavl, Nizhny Novgorod, Kazan, Saransk, Samara & Volgograd), and Ural (Yekaterinberg). All teams would play their group matches in three different host cities belonging to one or at most, two clusters. In Moscow alone there will be 4 stadia. St. Petersburg is one of the most beautiful cities in the world. Fanfest in Red Square. Battle of Stalingrad tours in Volgograd. How about a Quarterfinal matchup of Germany v Russia in Volgograd? On the down side, only 6 of the cities will be linked by high speed rail by 2018: St.Petersburg, Moscow, Nizhny Novgorod, Sochi, Smolensk and Krasnoye. Other than that, you'd have to fly. Or drive. Get me Jason Bourne. But count me in.<br><br>QATAR MAY HAVE WRITTEN CHECKS ITS BUTT CANT CASH.... <br><br>Chuck Blazer's comment lingers in one's ears: Maybe you can air condition a stadium; but how do you air condition an entire country? You can promise anything, and clearly money is no object in dealing with the June and July temperatures of 98 daytime and 87 evening in Qatar. But right now, it's a fantasy. If they can solve global warming, then they deserve to host the tournament every time. Just as significant, almost all of the venues are within 60 km of each other. This would be the hottest and most geographically condensed World Cup ever. Another issue is that even if they can cool the Fan Fest sites and stadia to tolerable levels, what do you do when you're not watching the games? What culture or historical sites are there to see? This isn't Egypt or Iran. This is a desert with 5 star hotels. On the other hand, the two greatest World Cups have been the two hottest: Mexico 1970 and 1986. Maybe we should root against the Qatari technology, so the game will open up. If they can't solve the heat, then for the fans, it's a potential catastrophe. I'll go, but only with a Panama Jack hat on my head for two weeks.<br><br>WHAT DOES ALL OF THIS MEAN FOR 2026? <br><br>Per current FIFA rules whatever confederation hosts a World Cup is ineligible to bid for the following two tournaments. Accordingly, both Europe and Asia are banned from hosting in 2026. Unless FIFA change their rule (they wouldn't do something like that, would they?) then it would be between Africa, South America, Concacaf and Oceania. Oceania has no feasible prospect, unless Australia leaves Asia to return to Oceania. Actually, that's not a bad idea for the Aussies, because they would be great hosts. But scratch Oceania. From Africa, let's say you get Egypt and Morocco, maybe even Nigeria. Perhaps Colombia from South America, although there may be a feeling among Comnebol that they should shoot for the 2030 centennial with a joint Argentina/Uruguay bid. That leaves Concacaf. The US or Mexico. One would think on paper that this would be an easy one for the US. But the same argument that leads you to South Africa, Brazil, Russia and Qatar might easily send you to Mexico. While we may not play each other in World Cup qualifying, that would be the Mother of all Battles. Do you think the US can count on Jack Warner's vote?<br><br><br><br>Matt Switalski is a 16th Circuit Court Judge in Macomb County, Michigan and is the managing editor of <a href="http://www.worldsoccerusa.com">World Soccer USA</a>. He appeared as a guest on World Football Daily on October 11 and October 14 to analyze the legal battle for Liverpool FC.
Matt Switalski of World Soccer USA
2010-12-03T17:00:00Z
Fabregas in no rush, except to get to Barcelona
Betfair's View
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Fabregas-in-no-rush,-except-to-get-to-Barcelona/-861114439849537119.html
2010-12-03T15:00:00Z
2010-12-03T15:00:00Z
Betfair Guest Blogger- <br><br>Cesc Fabregas had hoped to put to bed the rumours of a move to Barcelona by issuing his statement of intent earlier in the year and then following this up with a series of solid performances in an Arsenal shirt.<br><br>However, after being forced to miss large chunks of this season through injury problems, and now having declared to Gunners fans that he is in no rush to get back into the swing of things, he has almost encouraged doubts over his commitment to the club to resurface. The rumour mill <a href="http://www.betfairfootball.com/">rumor mill</a> has linked him with a move away from the club for a while now and it seems almost anything is used to fule the claims.<br><br>Wenger has, of course, strenuously supported his talented skipper and is keen to maintain that the Spaniard's mind is not wandering elsewhere, but the Arsenal boss knows deep down that Fabregas needs to reassure fans that he really does love the club that has arguably turned him into the world-class player he is.<br><br>Although Arsenal fans will probably have taken heart in the fact that Barcelona clearly did not look like they needed the services of Fabregas as they demolished title rivals Real Madrid 5-0 in the first El Clasico of the current La Liga season, they must now hope that their skipper can prove whilst in North London that he is indeed good enough to be an instrumental part of Pep Guardiola's side. However, if he is to do this in time to rush off to Barca during the January transfer window, he may need to speed up his recovery in time to demonstrate his talents clearly to the Catalan outfit.<br><br>Such an outcome is not one that Gunners fans would revel in but they certainly wouldn't mind seeing their captain back and performing in a way that they know he is capable of when he is at his very best. With the <a href="http://www.betfairfootball.com/premier-league/manchester-united/andys-saturday-tips---man-utd-to-recover-021210.html">football betting</a> suggesting the Gunners are on course for at least one trophy this season<br><br> If he can locate his best form once more, then Arsenal may just be able to pick up their first major trophy since their 2005 FA Cup triumph this year.
Betfair's View
2010-12-03T15:00:00Z
AN EL CLASICO MIRACLE, THE POWER OF "BALONA"
Stephen Kuzner
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/AN-EL-CLASICO-MIRACLE,-THE-POWER-OF-BALONA/-368298144820740793.html
2010-12-02T22:00:00Z
2010-12-02T22:00:00Z
By Stephen Kuzner - WFD Fan Correspondent<br><br><br><br>I knew it was going to be a good day on Monday when I fed my one year-old daughter her breakfast. For months I'd been trying to get her to say Barcelona. She's learned how to say Messi because of "messy", but not the full four syllables of Barcelona. Time and time again, "Susie, say Barcelona" ....crickets. As I tried to put-on her FC Barcelona bib this El Clasico morning, she grabbed it pointed to the crest and said "Balona". Being a superstitious nut, this had to be a sign; a foreshadowing of something wonderful and great.<br><br>However, "Balona" meant something bigger than Barcelona winning this El Clasico. "Balona" indicated that I would have the divine providence to get through my work-day, come home, have dinner with my parents, put my daughter to bed, pay the bills due the next day, and then finally at 9:00 PM EST be able to watch a DVR'd El Clasico uninterrupted, having dodged anything that could indicate the outcome ahead of time. Have you ever tried to do this sort of thing? In this day and age, evading the result of a game to see it DVR'd is like trying to elude your own shadow on a sunny spring day by doing crossovers on a pitch. I've never done it before. I've pretty much resigned to the fact that I'll know all Champions League and Copa Del Rey results before I get home. Foreknowledge or not, I enjoy them anyway.<br><br>Yet, it felt like "Balona" had aligned me God, karma, and luck in a way I had never experienced before. To borrow a line from Ray Hudson, "Lionel Messi can enter a revolving door behind someone and exit ahead of them". But with the power of "Balona", I felt I could avoid learning the outcome of a game arguably as big as the Super Bowl, World Cup Final, and UEFA Champions League Final.<br><br>An hour before the game started I phoned my parents to make sure they knew not to fool with the DVR while they baby-sat my daughter and to not accidentally let me know about the game. I was good there. They are reliable. Next step was to go into media-silence: shutdown work email, double-check the Windows Task Manager to make sure Outlook isn't running in the background, (it stinks getting a little pop-up email from FC Barcelona informing you of a result), close Gmail, terminate all social media including LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook, and AIM, use no applications linked to the Internet Explorer, and turn-off Blackberry to block calls, texts, and variety of emails. I put my head down and made phone-calls for two straight hours without making eye-contact with any co-workers that could stumble across an El Clasico score on ESPN.com and want to inform the office soccer-spaz.<br><br>I get through the last two hours of the work-day and exited stage-door left in the office. I put a topcoat overtop of my Barca fleece so no one on the street could ID me as a Barca supporter. I put my head down not to make contact with anyone on the street that could be pouring-out of a pub as I walked to my car. I felt my palms sweating in my pockets. I got in my car and decided not to turn-on the radio. Without my IPod my next best choice is the quiet, own thoughts, and the mighty power of "Balona". I kept my eyes only on the road and not on the faces of any drivers or passengers in other vehicles that could telepathically tell me what happened in El Clasico if I should happenstance make eye-contact with them. The commute was quicker than normal. I decided to pick-up some snacks to munch-on for the game.<br><br>I went into the Giant grocery store and realized once I got to the check-out counter that I didn't have my topcoat over my Barca fleece. The cashier looked straight at the Barca crest. I took-off the fleece and folded it under my arm. I felt naked, vulnerable, and dumb. What a stupid and greedy decision to get munchies. I put my head down and left the giant luckily unscathed.<br><br>I got home, hugged my daughter, made her say "Balona" three times and had dinner with my parents. My Dad asked me if I wanted to know about the game. My heart quickened. He smiled, a joke. I exhaled. My parents left after dinner and I put my daughter down to bed. At this point the TV in the house was off. My BlackBerry was off. The computer was off. The landline was unplugged. I paid the bills in loud silence. By 9:00 PM EST, I had no knowledge of El Clasico. The only thing that could go wrong at that point would be to turn-on the TV and have the channel set to GolTV or ESPN Deportes exposing me to an El Clasico rebroadcast or its aftermath. Before hitting the power button for the TV, I turned the cable box to CMT. I switched-on the TV. The pause before the image appeared seemed like eternity. For the first time in my life, I was happy to see Toby Keith.<br><br>El Clasico was DVR'd four times. I went to the first one recorded from GolTV. The voice of Ray Hudson sounded like Yeats and Phil Schoen like Hemingway. 5 goals and you know the rest by know. I watched the match twice. The power of "Balona" is awesome.<br><br>If you have feedback, email me at skuzner@gmail.com or <a href="http://www.facebook.com/home.php#!/skuzner?v=wall&ref=ts">Facebook me.</a> During the club season, I write pieces related to La Liga on Tuesdays and articles about FC Barcelona on Fridays. During El Clásico, I only live, breath, and sleep El Clásico.
Stephen Kuzner
2010-12-02T22:00:00Z
World Cup 2018 and 2022 - Part One
Bobby McMahon of FSC and Soccer Report Extra
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/World-Cup-2018-and-2022---Part-One/-113576677100361423.html
2010-12-01T18:00:00Z
2010-12-01T18:00:00Z
Bobby McMahon-<br>written on December 1, 2010 and posted to <a href="http://www.soccerreportextra.com">Soccer Report Extra</a><br><br>Over the last 15 years I have worked for a number Bid Committees seeking to secure rights to host international, regional and national sporting events. I have helped to develop technical evaluation criteria and have evaluated Bids. I have also been a keen but neutral observer at meetings where awards have been made or the lead up to such events.<br><br>Within a matter of hours we will know which countries have secured the rights to host the 2018 World Cup Finals and the 2022 World Cup Finals. The winners will delude themselves that their awards were simply based on being the best and losers will in public be magnanimous, but in private be crest-fallen and dismissive of the process and the men who rejected their Bids.<br><br>This particular round of World Cup bidding as been particularly vile given the allegations - some considered proven - of corruption both new and old. Add to this the dynamic of collusion and vote trading and it all adds up to a thoroughly repugnant process. The responsibility for corruption and collusion sits firmly at the door of FIFA.<br><br>One only needs to contrast how quickly the IOC has moved to investigate the allegations made against FIFA Vice President and IOC member Issa Hayatou while Sepp Blatter's FIFA sits back and dismisses the assertions with a "let them eat cake" attitude.<br><br>The Olympic movement has already gone through their Waterloo and are at pains to ensure that it doesn't happen again. When the successful Salt Lake bid for the 2012 Winter Olympics was shown to have been dirty the IOC was forced to move to try and root out the corruption and bribery that threatened to overwhelm the organization.<br><br>However, the IOC's hand was not forced by public opinion directly but by the sponsors who regularly anti-up hundreds of millions of dollars to attach their companies to the "ideals" of the Olympic rings. It was under the threat of losing multi-millions that the IOC finally acted and set in motion a system and structure that more rigorously controls the bidding process.<br><br>Until sponsors make the same demands on FIFA to clean up their internal organization nothing will change. Of course it is paradoxical that one of reasons put forward for jointly awarding 18 and 22 was in fact leveraging sponsors. It may in fact work (leveraging sponsors that is) but the decision has only made a murky pool even darker with allegations of vote swapping and collusion.<br><br>This issue provides a perfect illustration of how much the world of sports has changed over the last half century. Politics have always been a factor in such decisions but over the years such considerations have become entwined with the increasing commercial opportunities through the media and television attention that has grown exponentially.<br><br>The combination has made for a potent cocktail and money and resulting power has undoubtedly become a sporting and business aphrodisiac. But what if you take the 2010 reality and subtract media, TV, and money - what do you get? You probably get something like the meeting held in London in 1966.<br><br>In 1964 Mexico had been awarded the right to host the 1970 World Cup Finals. But rather than selecting a host for the 1974 Finals, FIFA actually named the hosts right through to 1982 - that was 16 years in advance.<br><br>Both West Germany and Spain submitted bids for 74 and 82 (these were the days when the award rotated between the Americas and Europe) so Spain stood aside and allowed West Germany the rights to 1974 and vice versa for 1982. Bizarrely Mexico still had a bid on the table for the 1978 Finals even though they were to be the 1970 hosts.<br><br>Argentina had lost the 1970 race (and later also failed to qualify) but were acclaimed the 78 hosts when Mexico stepped aside. The whole process was marked by a much more civil attitude to the problem but such an approach will never return.<br><br>Later today why you should not be sucked in by World Cup Award predictions and Bid analyzes.
Bobby McMahon of FSC and Soccer Report Extra
2010-12-01T18:00:00Z
Rooney's return well timed for United's Euro push
Betfair's View
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Rooneys-return-well-timed-for-Uniteds-Euro-push/-820819416765662018.html
2010-12-01T15:00:00Z
2010-12-01T15:00:00Z
Betfair Guest Blogger- <br><br>It was perhaps inevitable that Wayne Rooney would grab the headlines on his return to European competition.<br><br>His late penalty up at a chilly Ibrox sealed a 1-0 win for Sir Alex Ferguson's men and confirmed their place in the next round. As if to rub salt in Scottish wounds the result also meant Rangers were eliminated and will drop into the Europa League next year.<br><br>Rooney's last European goal came in last season's semi-final first leg against Bayern Munich in Germany. That game ended with Rooney limping off with an ankle injury and that seemed to be the start of his recent problems.<br><br>He was rushed back two weeks later for the return leg but never looked fully fit as Bayern went through on away goals.<br><br>He then missed key league games with that ankle injury as United saw Chelsea win the league title on the final day of the season. He then endured a miserable World Cup with England, which included a post-match, foul-mouthed rant at the England supporters, broadcast live across the world.<br><br>He returned home to sordid allegations in the press about his private life before his much publicised contract negotiations, that saw him criticise his team mates and the club's ambition before declaring his desire to leave. His subsequent about-turn and signing of a new contract just 48 hours just added to the bizarreness of Rooney's year.<br><br>His goal against Rangers will at least start to heal some of the wounds caused by his outbursts and get people talking about his actions on the pitch once more. Anyone who has placed a <a href="http://betting.betfred.com/713/category/sport-betting-news/football-betting/">Champions League bet</a> on United will have been pleased by his return.<br><br>It seems apt that Man United returned to the top of the league and qualified for the Champions League knock out stages the week Rooney returned to the starting line-up. The <a href="http://betting.betfred.com/713/sport-betting-news/football-betting/hodgson-keeps-spurs-faith/">Champions League betting</a> suggests he can help them push on in the tournament.<br><br>With a fully fit Rooney in the side United, who have yet to concede a goal in the Champions League this year, have a player who is a talisman who can make the difference in the big games that matter.
Betfair's View
2010-12-01T15:00:00Z
THE TRUE MEANING OF EL CLASICO, TIS THE SEASON
Stephen Kuzner
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/THE-TRUE-MEANING-OF-EL-CLASICO,-TIS-THE-SEASON/-170069016885865438.html
2010-11-28T22:00:00Z
2010-11-28T22:00:00Z
By Stephen Kuzner - WFD Fan Correspondent<br><br>This week's El Clasico between Real Madrid and FC Barcelona will be played on a Monday because of Catalan elections. The world's most anticipated and watched game each year, outside of a Champions League or Word Cup final, was moved because of politics. Madrid and Barcelona are the two largest cities in Spain and the two clubs are Spain's most successful with Real Madrid amassing 73 trophies and FC Barcelona collecting 68. This game has deep political roots. WFD regular Phil Ball has described the El Clásico as "a re-enactment of the Spanish Civil War". Each year, the whole table in La Liga sort of resembles a re-enactment as well with each club representing a region that held-out longest to Franco. And sure, Real Madrid and Barcelona symbolize opposing nationalisms between Spain and Catalonia, but in this day and age, how does a sporting match thee entire world watches be moved because of politics? To answer this question is to understand El Clasico's story.<br><br>This story starts about ninety years ago in Spain. In 1923, General Miguel Primo de Rivera seized power in Spain with support of the king and set-up a dictatorship where regional languages and identities were frowned upon. In Catalonia, the flag and language were banned. Also, FC Barcelona met similar repression for its symbolic role for a Catalan cosmopolitan-style nationalism.<br> <br>Ever since Joan Gamper, a Swiss Protestant Businessman, launched FC Barcelona in 1899, the club represented not only Catalonia, but also an openness to foreign influence. Sitting in the middle of the Mediteranean, Catalonia became an industrial giant by the late nineteen century. Opening its doors to foreign influence was a natural result. Gamper and soccer were just another import. A cosmopolitan nationalism was born. This was a form of nationalism in contrast to the nationalism from Castillian landowners and de Rivera's dictatorship.<br> <br>In 1925, FC Barcelona supporters booed the Spanish national anthem before an exhibition game ensuing in de Rivera shuttering Barca's stadium for 6 months and fining the club's directors. Eventually, Gamper fled and in 1929 committed suicide. However by 1930, the practice of squashing all dissent had backfired and Primo de Rivera was replaced by a Democratic Republic. Up to this point, FC Barcelona had been persecuted for its emblematic role for Catalonia, not its rivalry with Spain's other huge football giant Real Madrid. However, a number of themes that had already begun that would spill into the rivalry: Catalan Cosmopolitan Nationalism vs. Castillian Centralistic Nationalism, Industry vs. Agriculture, Fragmentation vs. Consolidation, and Nation vs. State.<br> <br>During the dictatorships of Primo de Rivera and eventually of Francisco Franco, FC Barcelona gained their motto "més que un club" (more than a club) to symbolize, at least in its own eyes, a connection to progressive beliefs and a figurative role for Catalonia. To the establishment and others, the adage rang of self-importance and anti-Spain. Then and now, "més que un club" clashes with clubs that have to fight for mere survival. This struggle for survival would be seen in the Spanish Civil War where Madrid had war at its doorstep from day one, while for much of the war, the city of Barcelona was behind the lines.<br><br>The Spanish Civil War began in 1936 with a coup d'état lead by General Francisco Franco and ended with Franco's victory for the landowning Nationalists over the Republicans in 1939. In their mind, the Nationalists brought security and direction to an ungoverned and lawless society left by a fragmented Republic that consisted of Marxists, Liberals, and Anarchists.<br><br>During the early days of the War, fascist gendarmes arrested and executed FC Barcelona's left-leaning president Josep Sunyol as he drove through the Sierra de Guadarrama to visit Catalan troops guarding Madrid from a right-wing siege. Sunyol had been a member of the left-wing group Acció Catalana and founded the left-wing newspaper La Rambla, which opposed the Primo de Rivera regime. Often overlooked by history is the fact that the president of Real Madrid, Rafael Sánchez Guerra, also suffered from the Spanish Civil War. As a prominent Republican, he refused to flee Madrid, was captured and imprisoned by Franco supporters, and then escaped to Paris with the government-in-exile.<br><br>After Franco forces prevailed, he set-out to purge Catalonia of Communists, Anarchists, Separatists, and finally FC Barcelona. FC Barcelona came near the top of the list because Catalonia held-out until 1939, parts of the city both welcomed Franco and engaged in urban warfare, and Franco obsessively followed Real Madrid. Fortunately, a purge of FC Barcelona by Real Madrid's greatest supporter did not mean destruction, but rather meant establishing a Spanish name, the removal of the Catalan flag from the Crest, and the installation of pro-Franco management to run the club. In 1943, to make the message clear in the semifinals of the Generalissimo's Cup (named after Franco himself) between Real Madrid and FC Barcelona, the Director of State Security told FC Barcelona players in their locker room that they should remember the only reason that could part-take in the game was from the generosity of the regime to forgive their lack of patriotism. Real Madrid won 11-1.<br><br>The purging of FC Barcelona instead of its destruction by Franco illustrated a lesson learned from Primo de Rivera's mistakes of trying to completely crush any dissent. Home games for FC Barcelona became viewed as a heroic center of resistance to Franco's military dictatorship. Cules could scream against the regime in their own banned Catalan from safety in numbers. But for Franco, this served as a safety valve for Catalan nationalism to be channeled into a harmless pastime. And, for many years, the FC Barcelona Boardroom still had Franco apologists in it.<br><br>This brings us the most pivotal point in our El Clasico story, the 1953 signing of who WFD regular Tim Vickery believes is perhaps the greatest footballer of all time, Alfredo Di Stefano. Both Real Madrid and FC Barcelona claimed to own his registration, a consequence of di Stéfano moving to Millonarios from River Plate following a strike. FIFA intervened and decided that both clubs would have to share the player in alternate seasons. However, FC Barcelona's Franco-imposed management in due course backed-down and di Stefano ultimately moved to Real Madrid. The transfer exacerbated the already strong enmity between the clubs.<br><br>Madrid would go on to win the European Cup in five successive years from 1955-56 to 1959-60 and again in 1965-66. They also were runners-up in 1961-62 and 1963-64. However conspiracy theories of grand manipulation by Franco can't explain how in the early years of his reign FC Barcelona did well. In the 1950s, FC Barcelona finished near the top of the league, won five Generalissmo's Cups, and the European Fairs Cup in 1958. Further, the Real Madrid of the 1950s won because the talent of di Stéfano, Puskas, Santamaria, Marquitos, and Gento.<br><br>Franco saw triumphs of Real Madrid and Spanish national team as his own. Madrid represented Spain. Foreign Minister Fernando Maria Castiella, said that Real Madrid were "the best embassy we ever had". A 1964 Real Madrid club bulletin read, "people laud the stunning play of Real Madrid. Madrid have unfurled Spain's flag before the world." Real Madrid won when Spain needed the press for acceptance in the western world.<br>In 1975 Franco died and in 1978 a Spanish Constitution was created with the transition of Spain to democracy. In many ways Spain became and is now a nation of nations. Spain has a central government with devolved power for 17 autonomous communities. The constitution recognizes the rights of these autonomous communities for self-government in such things as schools, health, social services, culture, urban and rural development. With gained freedom, FC Barcelona would still not see European glory until 1990s with Johan Cruyff's 1992 Dream Team. But the rivalry and Barcelona's "Real Madrid Complex" continued to grow.<br><br>As each El Clasico moved further and further away in time from the end of the Spanish Civil War, the more each game became about a re-enactment of the war. The Dream Team's Hristo Stoichkov, said "Every time Barcelona and Madrid meet, it's an act of rebellion against the established power, against centralism". Barcelona's homegrown Oleguer Presas states that when Barcelona beat Madrid for the 2004 League title, "We imagined ourselves halting that pack of tanks, responding to their bullets with anthems and song, and laughing in the face of the fascist ire of those military men". Sir Bobby Robson said, "I felt like I was a general leading the Catalan Army."<br><br>In an El Clasico league match during 2002, among many things a pig's head was thrown on the field in a gesture of disapproval to Luis Figo's return to the Camp Nou after transferring from FC Barcelona to Real Madrid. Bernd Schuster and Michael Laudrup are also players that played for FC Barcelona before later playing for Real Madrid. Luis Enrique has made the move in the opposite direction and now coaches Barcelona B.<br><br>The biggest switch however might be former FC Barcelona assistant coach Jose Mourniho now leading Real Madrid. In the 1990s and early 2000s Mourniho served under Robson and Louis van Gaal at Barcelona. After winning the Champions League at FC Porto and Internazionale and the Barclay's Premier League with Chelsea, he gets to do battle with the club where he coached Barcelona B and where Van Gaal entrusted him to run the first team for lesser trophies, like the Copa Catalunya, which Mourinho won in 2000. Last year when Mourniho's Internazionale knocked-out FC Barcelona from the Champions League the ground grew turned-on the sprinklers to soak a Mourinho that ran around the field obnoxiously celebrating.<br><br>This is the backdrop to which this El Clasico will be played. Real Madrid's ship has been righted by a coach who spent time at FC Barcelona to leave and win-big with three clubs as stepping stones to the world's largest club in Real Madrid to restore it to glory. FC Barcelona's greatest fear is that Mourinho will be the coaching version of Di Stefano. Yet, if this El Clásico is a re-enactment of the Spanish Civil War, the result has already been determined. FC Barcelona has won because the war has been moved-back for Catalan elections. Elections are more than a game.<br><br><br>If you have feedback, email me at skuzner@gmail.com or <a href="http://www.facebook.com/home.php#!/skuzner?v=wall&ref=ts">Facebook me.</a> During the club season, I write pieces related to La Liga on Tuesdays and articles about FC Barcelona on Fridays. During El Clásico, I only live, breath, and sleep El Clásico.
Stephen Kuzner
2010-11-28T22:00:00Z
EL CLASICO, 1ST HELPINGS
Stephen Kuzner
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/EL-CLASICO,-1ST-HELPINGS/-524018206872804115.html
2010-11-22T22:00:00Z
2010-11-22T22:00:00Z
By Stephen Kuzner - WFD Fan Correspondent<br><br>I'm going to give you two helpings of El Clásico because rightly or wrongly at least this week La Liga will revolve around the world's largest club-season fixture. This first installment focuses on match-ups, stats, tactics, etc. The Friday morning piece will concentrate on the history, culture, and emotions of El Clásico. What is El Clásico? It is any match between FC Barcelona and Real Madrid, contested at least twice a year in the Spanish Primera, La Liga. Let's take a look at how the two best teams in the world (with Chelsea's fall recently this is fair) stack-up.<br> <br><br>Real Madrid is 10-2-0 with 32 points, 33 goals scored, and conceded 6 in La Liga.<br><br>Barcelona is 10-1-1 with 31 points, 33 goals scored, and conceded 8 in La Liga.<br><br> <br><br>Real Madrid's top scorer is Cristiano Ronaldo with 16 goals in all competitions.<br><br>Barcelona's top scorer is Lionel Messi with 22 goals in all competitions.<br><br> <br><br>4-2-3-1 is Real Madrid's most-used formation.<br><br>4-3-3 is Barcelona's most-used formation.<br><br><br><br>Real Madrid's most-used line-up is: Iker Casillas (G), Marcelo (LB), Ricardo Carvalho (CD-L), Pepe (CD-R), Sergio Ramos (RB), Xabi Alonso (L-HM), Mesut Özil (CM), Sami Khedira (R-HM), Ángel di María (LW), Gonzalo Higuaín (CF), Cristiano Ronaldo (RW)<br><br>Barcelon's most-used line-up is: Victor Valdés (G), Maxwell (LB), Gerard Piqué (CD-L), Puyol (CD-R), Daniel Alves (RB), Andrés Iniesta (LM), Sergio Busquets (C-HM), Xavi (RM), Pedro (LW), Lionel Messi (CF), David Villa (RW).<br><br><br>Ok, enough of the junior-level anoraking, here are the key match-ups you'll see.<br><br>Lionel Messi vs. Ricardo Carvalho in the center of Madrid's defense. Here we have the most in-form defender in the world trying to stop world's greatest player with 22 goals in 17 games across all competitions for Barcelona this year. As good as Carvalho and Madrid have been defensively, its hard not to see Lionel Messi without a goal at the Camp Nou. However, these days holding Messi to just a goal is a good thing. I see Messi scoring a goal, but that leaving this match-up a wash.<br><br>Marcelo vs. David Villa on Madrid's left flank. Now this is the match-up that José Mourinho should be most concerned about. Mourinho has Macelo well-schooled in fundamentals and positioning this year and thus has not been a liability like he was last year on Madrid's left side. Nonetheless, Villa's current form after a World Cup hangover could prove the difference in the game. I see a Villa assist or goal the product of Marcelo not quite having enough or reverting back to old habits.<br><br>Pedro vs. Sergio Ramos on Madrid's right flank. We have World Cup winners for Spain going head-to-head here. Is Ramos a right-winger set-in to rot at right-back? I am not so sure. Ramos can fit-in in many positions all over the field much like who he'll be running into most on Monday in Pedro. Pedro seems to come-up big when it's needed. Pedro will keep Ramos pushed back to a certain degree, but that may a good thing by forcing Ramos not to wander up-field. Nonetheless, I see no clear-cut advantage between Ramos and Pedro.<br><br>Pepe vs. Andrés Iniesta attacking from Madrid's rights-side. Here's the clash that I want to see. I've been telling people for years that Barcelona's "sweet choirboy" Iniesta doesn't dive. Rather, he just makes people look foolish with deft technical skill and as a result they hack down the little guy. Pepe is having the season of his career so far under Mourinho. Based-on form this should be a fair and even match-up. However, I don't see it as such. I see potential cards and frustration for Pepe. Advantage El Ilusionista.<br><br>Xavi vs. Xabi Alonso in the dead-center of the field. Xavi versus Xabi? Say that three times real quick. Again, we have two World Cup winners for Spain squaring-off here. These might be the two most accurate passers in the world here. On their best day, I'd tip my cap to Xavi, but some nagging niggles makes this an even set. I'd like to see 100+ completed passed between the two of them for aesthetic aims.<br><br>Sami Khedira vs. Sergio Busquets also in the dead-center of the field. Blood and guts with distribution in this contest. You have two very similar players here. Guys that win balls, distribute, do dirty-work, and provide movement. Busquets moves and defends better while Khedira has a slight edge in distribution. I prefer Busquets, but this battle will be too close to call.<br><br>Carles Puyol vs. Mesut Özil attacking from Barcelona's center or left. The key to an El Clásico result for Madrid will come from Barca's version of Samson trying to stifle the creativity of the young, imaginative, and ingenious Özil. Özil has many colors on his palette from which to choose between di María, Higuaín, and Ronaldo. Özil is ten years younger than Puyol. If we see Puyol huffing-back to save the day as we usually do when Barca plays a well-versed counter-attacking team, Özil will make the Blaugranes pay. I see an Özil goal or assist.<br><br>Ángel di María vs. Maxwell on Barcelona's left flank. di María complements Özil, Higuaín, and Ronaldo beautifully. Of anywhere on the field, this is the space that Barcelona should be most anxious about. Maxwell really likes to get-up the field and help combine in the attack. And, he is great at it. However, there aren't many people that can exploit this more than the lightening-quick and skillfully adroit di María. I see Maxwell getting pushed-back to cover di María and di María punishing Barca on the counter-attack. The edge goes to di María.<br><br>Gerard Piqué vs. Gonzalo Higuaín in the center of Barcelona's defense. The world's greatest defender versus a great striker known for coming-up short in the big-game. This fight will be where El Clásico will be won, lost, or drawn. If Higuaín makes his own luck with scrap like he did at Sporting Gijón, it will tip the scales in favor of Real Madrid. However, I don't see Piquénbauer allowing this to happen. I give the upper-hand to Piqué.<br><br>Cristiano Ronaldo vs. Daniel Alves on Barcelona's right flank. We should take bets on who is going to wag their finger first in disagreement. We'll see a lot of rolling-on the ground writhing in pain from these two. Ronaldo is the world's other best player and Alves is the world's other best right-back. This should be a fun and contentious spectacle to watch. My guess is if Alves can get Ronaldo to wave his finger first, he may be able to get in his head a bit and slowdown him. Unfortunately for Alves, I don't think this will happen and I expect Ronaldo's class to be enough for a goal.<br><br>Victor Valdés vs. Iker Casillas in the goals. Casillas may be the best in the world to most people, but Valdés form the past two years has been amazing. There is not a clear victor between the keepers in this El Clásico to me. Hopefully, we seem some goals that these guys can't get their paws on. There definitely is a chance for these guys to spoil some things. But, isn't that beauty in and of itself?<br><br>José Mourinho vs. Pep Guardiola from the sidelines, in the locker rooms, in front of the press, and on the training pitch. The Special One is the best in the world outside of Pep or Sir Alex at this point in time. But, it's hard to pick a clear favorite here being that Mourinho won a Treble last year, while Guardiola won six trophies the season before. Last year, Mourinho won-out eliminating Barcelona from the Champions League. Has Guardiola learned from that lesson? I think he has. However, I see this coaching-bout being a draw between Emperor Mourinho Palpatine and Pep Skywalker Guardiola.<br><br><br>Barcelona / Real Madrid<br><br>Messi (23') / Özil (45')<br><br>Villa (27') Ronaldo (80')<br><br> <br><br>14(4) /Shots (on Goal)/ 9(4) <br><br>6 /Fouls/ 9 <br><br>7 /Corner Kicks/ 5 <br><br>3 /Offsides/ 4 <br><br>58% /Time of Possession/ 42% <br><br>2 /Yellow Cards/ 3 <br> <br>0 /Red Cards/ 0 <br><br>2 /Saves/ 2<br><br><br><br><br><br>If you have feedback, email me at skuzner@gmail.com or <a href="http://www.facebook.com/home.php#!/skuzner?v=wall&ref=ts">Facebook me.</a> During the club season, I write pieces related to La Liga on Tuesdays and articles about FC Barcelona on Fridays. During El Clásico, I only live, breath, and sleep El Clásico.
Stephen Kuzner
2010-11-22T22:00:00Z
Ajax look to surprise Madrid
Tim Mallow's View
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Ajax-look-to-surprise-Madrid/758616683954660796.html
2010-11-22T16:08:00Z
2010-11-22T16:08:00Z
TMR Football Blogger, Tom Mallows- <br><br><br>With second spot in Group G still very much up for grabs, Ajax host Real Madrid, as they look to take charge of the race between themselves, AC Milan and Auxerre. Real currently top the table clearly but will be looking to cement their chances of winning the group with <a href="http://news.ladbrokes.com/en-gb/football/champions-league/champions-league-football-betting.html">Champions League betting odds 2010</a>.<br><br> <br><br>Ajax are currently third in the group with four points, with Milan in second on five and Auxerre bottom with three. After suffering a 2-1 loss to Auxerre in their last game, Ajax will realistically need to take something from this match if they are going to progress from this stage. The Dutch side will fancy their chances of getting at least a draw at home to what may well be a pretty relaxed Madrid, already assured of their place in the next round.<br><br> <br><br>Jose Mourinho may choose to rest some of his key players for the tie and will be without injured duo Gonzalo Higuain and Sami Khedira, who both suffered injuries in Real's 5-1 win at the weekend against Athletic Bilbao. Higuain sustained a back injury while German midfielder Khedira strained his hamstring.<br><br> <br><br>Those who <a href="http://news.ladbrokes.com/en-gb/football/champions-league">bet on Champions League</a> note that Karim Benzema may be handed a start, following his recent goal for France against England. The striker will be looking to prove a point to his manager after falling down the pecking order at the Bernabeu this season.<br><br> <br><br>The Dutch side aren't enjoying the best of seasons domestically so far. They played out a goalless draw against PSV at the weekend, leaving them six points adrift of the leaders, in fourth place.<br><br> <br><br>Despite missing several key players, Madrid look to have too much strength for Ajax and a draw could be the best the Dutch team can really hope for.
Tim Mallow's View
2010-11-22T16:08:00Z
Arsenal down but not out
Betfair's View
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Arsenal-down-but-not-out/-636776354279305568.html
2010-11-22T15:00:00Z
2010-11-22T15:00:00Z
Betfair Guest Blogger- <br><br>Any other season and three home defeats at this stage of the campaign would have already killed any hopes of winning the title, not this year though. Arsenal's third home loss of the season came at the weekend, after they surrendered a two goal lead to Spurs.<br><br>In their previous two home losses, to Newcastle and West Brom, Arsenal failed to perform anywhere near their usual high standards. The same couldn't be said about this display against Spurs. In attack, Arsenal were typically dangerous, taking the lead through Samir Nasri before Marouane Chamakh doubled it before the half hour mark.<br><br>The defensive display that followed in the second half was their downfall, although it's not something that Wenger's teams make a habit of doing. As soon as Gareth Bale grabbed Spurs' first goal Arsenal looked fragile at the back and paid for some indecisive defending, conceding a penalty before Younes Kaboul nicked the late winner five minutes from time. There won't have been too many <a href="http://www.betfairfootball.com/premier-league/everton/no-gray-areas---everton-rewarded-for-risk-221110.html">Premier League bets</a> placed on Spurs winning once they went 2-0 down, but it was a superb comeback.<br><br>With the patchy form of the other title hunters this season, Arsene Wenger's side are still only two points off table toppers Chelsea and very much in the race. Had they clung on to their lead, Arsenal would have gone level on points with Chelsea at the top of the league and Wenger will still fancy his chances of keeping pace with their city rivals and the <a href="http://www.betfairfootball.com/">football odds</a> show they are still in with a chance.<br><br>When the dust settles on the disappointing loss, Wenger can still be relatively happy looking at the table. However, Arsenal won't be able to slip up again anytime soon if they are going to mount a genuine challenge this season. They will be looking to bounce back next weekend when they travel to Villa Park, before hosting Wigan then Fulham in three games Arsenal will be looking to win.<br><br>As everyone knows, there is no easy game in the Premier League but Arsenal's next real test will come on the 13th of December when they head to Old Trafford. That match will be a real test as to whether this Arsenal team can pick up their first piece of silverware for five years.
Betfair's View
2010-11-22T15:00:00Z
THE HONOR TO PLAY BARCA?
Stephen Kuzner
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/THE-HONOR-TO-PLAY-BARCA/-948230483396627674.html
2010-11-18T22:00:00Z
2010-11-18T22:00:00Z
By Stephen Kuzner - WFD Fan Correspondent<br><br>If you were a player in La Liga, who would you rather want to exchange shirts with, Messi or Ronaldo? Keep that thought in mind.<br><br><br>I thought that it was presumptuous and arrogant to think, let alone, write in Tuesday's piece this week that many La Liga sides may feel it an honor to play versus beautiful Barcelona. While it would be a chore to play against a defensive Mourinho-mindgame-playing Real Madrid. The thing is, Joe Mourinho may think the same thing. Earlier this week Graham Hunter wrote on ESPNsoccernet that a friend confided in him that Mourinho feared that many small and medium-sized La Liga teams come to the Camp Nou with a defeatist frame of mind hoping to exchange shirts with Lionel Messi.<br><br>I never played professional soccer, but I did play amateur sports and remember the level of effort I gave playing teams I hated compared to the teams I was friends with. It may not be overt turning-in a less than 100% effort when a lesser team plays Barcelona, but at least on a subconscious-level something must take place? What is the frame of mind of a player taking-on a team that won La Liga last year, won six trophies the year before, and starts six of Spain's World Cup winning players? Intimidated? Star-struck? Fired-up to compete? All the above? We'll never know answers to these questions because players won't admit anything short of an attitude of total focus. Still, earlier this year, Sporting Gijon fought hard at the Camp Nou and Hercules beat Barcelona on the road. Perhaps Mourinho has nothing to fear about teams traveling to the Camp Nou.<br><br>However, his perception does not help Madrid. Labeling the team that Gijon boss Manolo Preciado fielded versus Barcelona as one that would get him "jailed" forged a fire in Gijon that nearly resulted in Madrid dropping points. So far this season, Mourinho has unified his players, but he also has unified other La Liga's teams in loathing him and thus Madrid. A siege mentality works in a situational sense like a tactic for a match or tie. As an overarching season-long strategy, it may wear on the team and rile your enemies and create ones where there weren't any before, much like Gijon. I remember reading a book by Bill Russell where he explained that he befriended and broke bread with Wilt Chamberlain to prevent the unstoppable wrath an angry Chamberlain would exert. Madrid doesn't want this sort of fury in every fixture.<br><br>By taking on the world Mourinho has the Madridistas on his side. But if they realize he has intensified the mettle and physicality in Madrid opponents and they subsequently start dropping points, it might be a feeding frenzy in the Madrid press. Porto, Chelsea, and Inter are big football clubs, but Madrid is the biggest sports-club, period, in the world. The siege mentality worked in Milan and Porto, but eventually imploded at Chelsea. This might not be the best strategy in Madrid.<br><br> <br><br>So who are you going to trade jerseys with, Messi or Ronaldo? I'd trade with Puyol.<br><br><br><br>If you have feedback, email me at skuzner@gmail.com or <a href="http://www.facebook.com/home.php#!/skuzner?v=wall&ref=ts">Facebook me.</a>
Stephen Kuzner
2010-11-18T22:00:00Z
The King of Africa (Circa 2010)
Sayed Otaru
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/The-King-of-Africa-Circa-2010/895878693863970345.html
2010-11-17T17:00:00Z
2010-11-17T17:00:00Z
by Sayed Otaru<br><br>The Confederation of African Football (CAF) released an unsurprising list for the 2010 African Player of the Year. 2010 saw the occurrence of 28th African Cup of Nations, multiple African players plying their trade successfully in Europe (which is the continent whose club league traditionally plays a major part in determining the winner), the World Cup in South Africa, the CAF Champions League, and the CAF Confederation Cup. Africa's most celebrated performer of 2010 is sure to have been a prominent presence in some of the aforementioned competitions with the tilt likely to go to the competitions were the national teams were involved (all things considered).<br><br>* Note that this is a separate award from the "CAF African based Player of the Year" award.*<br><br>The CAF Player of the Year award means a lot to African football fans. As a boy, I beamed with extreme happiness to see the likes of Emmanuel Amunike, Papillo (Kanu Nwankwo), and Victor Ikpeba win this very award as Nigerians. I believe a similar level of pride is felt by countrymen of the other winners over time.<br><br><br>Andre 'Dede' Ayew, Kevin-Prince Boateng, Madjid Bougherra, Didier Drogba, Samuel Eto'o Fils, Asamoah Gyan, Ahmed Hassan, Salomon Kalou, Seydou Keita, and Mohamed 'Gedo' Nagy are the chosen 10 vying for Africa's top individual honor. <br><br><br>I believe there can only be 3 credible candidates for this award and here is why in a nutshell:<br><br>Ayew - Good Nations Cup, average performance in the second tier of French football on loan at AC Arles-Avignon. Showed a lot of potential and put in some good displays at the World Cup.<br><br>Boateng - Only became 'African' on May 12th, 2010. Average perfomance at Portsmouth, solid World Cup, average start at AC Milan.<br><br>Bougherra - Though he scored in the shocking victory over Cote d'Ivoire at the Cup of Nations, the Algerian defense line wasn't the most convincing. <br><br>Hassan - One of the legends of Egyptian football. While he was at the heartbeat o the Pharaohs record 7th title, Egypt failed to make it to the World Cup.<br><br>Kalou - Like most of the Ivorian players, he failed to shine for the national team at both the Cup of Nations and the World Cup. Kalou was also not the best African player in 2010 at Chelsea Football Club.<br><br>Keita - Had a very disappointing African Cup of Nations with the entire Malian squad, albeit he played his part in that cracker of a game against Mali with 2 crucial goals in the coming down from 4-0 to tie the game 4-4 with 11 minutes to go. Mali played no part in the 2010 World Cup, albeit Keita put in good displays for FC Barcelona<br><br>Nagy - The surprise of the 2010 Africa Cup of Nations. The super sub and recent introduction to Pharaoh football, Nagy had a fantastic tournament ending up as top scorer, the scorer of the lone goal at the finals and tournament champion. Egypt's absence from the World Cup hurts his stake for me.<br><br>Getting down to Drogba, Eto'o and Gyan. On the face of it, this is a very impressive set of names. In all fairness on the global stage, neither of these 3 players would be in the top 5 players of 2010. The pedigrees of Eto'o and Drogba are not in question, but 2010 was a year were much was expected of them for their national sides and overall they did not deliver. <br><br>Eto'o was relatively subdued by his exalted standards for his new club Internazionale both in Serie A and Europe, as he was often used out wide as opposed to down the middle. Eto'o still had a good return of goals for the Italians as well as some crucial goals for them. Paul Le Guen would do the same with him (as he did in the World Cup qualifiers) at the Africa Cup of Nations and even more extremely at the World Cup save for the last game. Roger Milla's ill advised comments (jealousy if you ask me) didn't do much to help Eto'o going into the World Cup. Cameroon were very disappointing and the Lion King couldn't do much to get his troops marching. Rumors of in-fighting between Eto'o and Emana definitely didn't help his product on the field.<br><br>Drogba was very disappointing for the Ivorians - the quarter final game against Algeria in Cabinda will long live in the memory as one of his most abject performances for Les Elephants as they got eliminated by a technically inferior Desert Foxes team. An injury prior to the World Cup didn't help Drogba's intent to take the competition by storm - albeit he did score against Brazil. While Drogba terrorized teams in England (top scorer in the premier league), he failed to do it where it mattered the most as far as this award is concerned. Drogba was also said to be at the center of some alleged in-fighting during the Africa Cup of Nations by the former coach Halilhodzic.<br><br><br>Asamoah Gyan is a name non-African football enthusiasts must have certainly etched in their memories (incase his exploits at the 2006 World Cup were already forgotten) in 2010. Gyan played as a lone striker in Rajevac's preferred 4-5-1 formation. Gyan led the front line of a very young Ghanaian side (virtually given no chance) surprisingly all the way to the final scoring 3 crucial goals in the process. Gyan embodied the spirit of some of the African legends of yesteryear in Angola and later on in South Africa - grit and persistence being the markers.<br><br>Gyan isn't your typical out and out prolific striker, but his extra time winning goal against the United States in the second round of the World Cup would have you think otherwise. When all's said and done, Gyan had the best World Cup of all the nominees which ended with 3 goals and as well as in tears <a href="http://www.worldfootballdaily.com/b/Ghanas-Tears-are-all-of-Africas-as-well/779347446452796250.html">in tears</a>. Since the World Cup, Gyan has had a good start to life at his new club Sunderland scoring some important goals for the English club. <br><br>There have been some jaw dropping decisions by the voting body and CAF in previous years. Didier Drogba winning out over Eto'o (2009), and Kanoute over Drogba (2007) readily come to mind. In a year of many disappointments for African Football - Asamoah Gyan is my African Footballer of the Year on the strength of his performances for the Black Stars.<br><br><br><br>I should note that the BBC has a 'similar award' allegedly driven by fan votes - said 'award' has never honored Samuel Eto'o as the best player in Africa. That in itself is as high a football related crime as ever existed in my humble opinion. Samuel Eto'o is considered by many well informed viewers of the African game as the best footballer the continent has ever produced.
Sayed Otaru
2010-11-17T17:00:00Z
MLS Playoffs Part 3
Heath Harshman
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/MLS-Playoffs-Part-3/675125922324076401.html
2010-11-16T22:00:00Z
2010-11-16T22:00:00Z
By Heath Harshman- WFD Fan Correspondent<br><br>Not wanting to be surpassed in unexpectedness, the MLS second round had its own version of "Upset Weekend" with FC Dallas smashing the tournament favorite Los Angeles Galaxy 3-0 at the Home Depot Center in California. That victory coupled with Colorado's 1-0 home "Eastern Conference Final" win over San Jose and the MLS has given us one of the more surprising MLS Cup Finals in history.<br><br>FC Dallas is in the midst of one of, if not the, most impressive playoff run in MLS history. Defeating the defending champion Real Salt Lake in the first round and dispatching the Supporter's Shield winning Los Angeles Galaxy in the second round. They've done so with supreme quality and tactics as well as a fight and determination that rivals any other team in the league. Losing just four times all season, with three of those four coming against RSL and L.A., Dallas has mastered something that can only be underrated: not losing. FC Dallas head coach and MLS Coach of the Year (and WFD guest) Schellas Hyndman has got the right guys doing the right things and has the team gelling at the perfect time of the season.<br><br>The crux of Hyndman's team and MLS MVP candidate David Ferreira has been the straw that stirs the drink for FC Dallas. Creating and scoring goals in the Dallas attacking midfield, Ferreira has emerged as one of the league's top players. He was named to the MLS Best XI this week and finished the regular season second in the league in assists (13), only behind Galaxy midfielder Landon Donovan. But the Colombian topped Donovan when it mattered most at the weekend, scoring two of Dallas' three goals and leading his team to the Western Conference title.<br><br>Just as important and valuable on the defensive end, Dallas goalkeeper Kevin Hartman has been immense in Dallas's great season. The 14-year MLS veteran has been nearly perfect in goal for Dallas, earning a 10-1-8 record during the regular season and amassing a miniscule 0.62 goals against average. With his nearly decade and a half of experience Hartman knows how to communicate well with his back line and when to take chances. Although he has a solid defense in front of him, there is no diminishing Hartman's contributions. With the same defense and keeper Dario Sala in net Dallas allowed almost one entire goal more per game, with a 1.52 goals against average in ten games. These two Dallas stalwarts will need to play as they did in the Conference Finals against the Galaxy in order to bring the MLS Cup to Dallas for the first time.<br><br>Despite not having a single player in the MLS Best XI and finishing in fifth place in the Western Conference standings, the Colorado Rapids have got hot at the right time and captured the Eastern Conference crown. A well rounded team, much like their opponent in the MLS Cup Final, Colorado has used its dual threat up front of Conor Casey and Omar Cummings to lead them to their success. The two combined for 27 goals during the regular season and are the spearheads of the Rapids attack. Neither<br><br>While Cummings and Casey often find the back of the net, the strong midfield containing former United States national teamer Pablo Mastroeni as well as MLS veteran Jeff Larentowicz have been the backbone for Colorado. The two have combined to play over 5,000 minutes this MLS season and have 15 trips to the MLS playoffs between them as well. Their experience and leadership will be necessary for the Rapids to take down a hot FC Dallas team.<br><br>These two teams played one another twice in the regular season, with scored draws being the outcome each time. In the latest matchup on October 9th, Larentowicz tallied twice and Ferreira scored for Dallas en route to a 2-2 draw. Both teams are playing hot, are well coached and are solid all over the field. All signs point to a close game with one or two big moments possibly deciding the outcome.<br><br> <br><br>Prediction: Dallas's defense stays strong in a hard fought match between two very strong teams and brings the MLS Cup to the Southwest, 2-1. (November 21, 5:30pm PT on ESPN)<br><br><br><br>In addition to being a weekly blogger for WFD, I write for the Washington State University student newspaper, The Daily Evergreen, where I have a weekly sports column. I am also a WSU Men's basketball correspondent for Jim Basnight and mynorthwest.com. You can find past pieces and follow my work not only for WFD but for The Daily Evergreen and mynorthwest.com by following me on twitter <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/HeathHarshman">@heathharshman</a> or adding me on <a href="http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1191161409">facebook</a>. Any feedback is welcome at heath_harshman@yahoo.com.
Heath Harshman
2010-11-16T22:00:00Z
Western Conference Final Match Report- LA Galaxy 0-3 FC Dallas
James Cranford
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Western-Conference-Final-Match-Report--LA-Galaxy-0-3-FC-Dallas/992580305291953398.html
2010-11-16T18:00:00Z
2010-11-16T18:00:00Z
James Cranford- Assistant Producer of World Football Daily<br><br>FC Dallas has advanced to the MLS Cup Final after securing an impressive 3-0 victory at the Home Depot Center. Dallas moves on to play the Colorado Rapids, who will play in their first final since 1997 where they were defeated 2-1 to DC United, where both teams will be looking for their first MLS title. The Supporter Shield-winning LA Galaxy had a season to remember, but their ultimate goal of a third title will have to be put on hold for another year.<br> <br>The home side started with some early pressure; Hartman came up big, as he did all night long, as LA were asserting themselves in the early going. Juninho made his defenders look shameful with some nifty dribbling, finding himself clean through on goal only to see Hartman save well down to his right.<br> <br>David Beckham swung in a free kick that was looking for the head of Edson Buddle, but the ball hit no one and was heading for the upper 90 until Hartman was able to get over and parry the ball away to safety quite brilliantly.<br> <br>Dallas struck first against the run of the play. Marvin Chavez received the ball in space and placed the ball straight to the feet of David Ferreira who made no mistake, depositing the ball in the lower left hand corner: Ferreira making his claim for MLS MVP.<br>Landon Donovan had space on the left hand side and his shot was superbly saved by Hartman who was able to get his fingers on the ball and away to safety.<br> <br>Dema Kovelenko was a lucky boy not to be sent off in the 38th minute; already on a yellow, he made a late challenge on David Ferreira and it looked a bookable offence but the referee was being lenient.<br> <br>The first half drew to a close with the Galaxy having more chances but Dallas took their one and only chance of the half to lead at the break 1-0.<br> <br>Dallas increased their tempo in the second period and were creating more chances looking for a place in the final. Brek Shea had the ball in space on the left hand side and sent in an inch-perfect cross along the six-yard area where the ball was easily tapped in by George John.<br> <br>Galaxy made an immediate change by bringing on Alex Cazumba for the ineffective Mike Magee.<br> <br>Two minutes after Dallas took their two goal lead, their was miscommunication among the back line and the ball fell straight to Landon Donovan who, with a wide open net, hit the ball just over the bar. Agonizing for the Galaxy.<br> <br>Dallas finished off their hosts with 15 minutes to play. Ferreira set up Marvin Chavez with a perfect through ball and Chavez made no mistake, sending his side to their first ever MLS final. There was a hint of offside, but the replays show<br> <br>The last fifteen minutes of the game were rough and tumble as the Galaxy showed off their frustrations. Beckham hit a trade-mark free kick in stoppage time, but once again Kevin Hartman was up to the task.<br><br>-- <br>James Cranford<br>World Football Daily<br>E-mail: james@worldfootballdaily.com<br>jcranford4@gmail.com
James Cranford
2010-11-16T18:00:00Z
EMPEROR MOURINHO PALPATINE
Stephen Kuzner
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/EMPEROR-MOURINHO-PALPATINE/58819518580057883.html
2010-11-16T17:00:00Z
2010-11-16T17:00:00Z
By Stephen Kuzner - WFD Fan Correspondent<br><br>These are entertaining days in La Liga. I spent my Sunday afternoon convincing my father to get an additional sports package from Comcast that included GolTV so I could see La Liga games when I visit on Sundays. At first, he didn't understand why I needed to watch Real Madrid every week when I am a Barcelona supporter. So I explained that the winner of the league is who sits atop the standings with the post points at the end of the year. As long as Madrid is in first (or near first), a Madrid loss or draw is just as important as a Barca triumph. If you support Barcelona or Madrid you are tied to both. Your team's destiny is dependant on your rival's results.<br><br>It can be unhealthy rooting against the same team week after week. It can fill you with hate and resentment or worse you can start to relate to your enemy. Seeing them week after week, you realize they are not a band goons void or worthy of human compassion. You begin to understand where they are coming-from and that they are people like anyone else. You learn their back-stories. If you are not a righteous supporter this is a healthy thing. Sometimes it's better not to watch, consequently keeping your vision of an arch-nemesis intact. I can't. I dissect Madrid more than I do Barcelona. I watch Madrid as if I was Pep's #1 scout.<br><br>The game started and, being new to La Liga, my Dad asked about some of the players. He recognized Ronaldo and didn't like him. That was good. I wouldn't have to disparage an easy target. Instead, I described how Ronaldo was part of the duality of world's two best players with Lionel Messi. In a way, they need each other the way Magic needed Bird and Bird needed Magic. The antics and smirks soon eradicated this flowerly description of sporting soul-mates.<br><br>There couldn't have been a better game to have someone learn how to root against Madrid than the match at Sporting Gijon. This game was ridiculously physical and contentious. The backdrop of Jose Mourinho getting a few match ban for feuding with officials in the Copa del Ray coupled with his comments about Gijon boss Manolo Preciado fielding a team against Barcelona that would have gotten him jailed in England created a frothing venom-filled caldron at the El Molinón. I'm not sure if I believe in the "White Hand" working its way through La Liga yielding favorable officiating for Madrid, but it's presence could be mistaken in such a belligerent fixture. Above all of this, sat Mourinho perched in a corporate box with the lights turned low. An outline of him visible to the camera. He seemed to be alone up there. This image gave a hint of Emperor Palpatine thus adding an aura of villainy.<br><br>On the field Madrid and Gijon slugged it out. Listening to Ray Hudson laud the effort given by the Gijonudos (meaning ballsy Gijon) versus La Liga's Goliath made it easy to side the smaller "David-ish" club. At the 82nd minute, the score remained 0-0. A well-earned Gijon draw appeared imminent. But it was not to happen. Sergio Ramos sent in a cross that was tamely headed by Karim Benzema. Then, bobbled by Gijon keeper Juan Pablo Colinas landing at Gonzalo Higuaín's feet for an easy tap home. Sometimes, grit can create luck. Soon defensive substitutions were made with Lassana Diarra and Álvaro Arbeloa ensuring a beyond well-fought Madrid victory. This was a great game to introduce my father to rooting in opposition to Madrid. But, I know over time the more he sees them, the more he'll be able to relate and, worse, respect them.<br><br><br>If you have feedback, email me at skuzner@gmail.com or <a href="http://www.facebook.com/home.php#!/skuzner?v=wall&ref=ts">Facebook me.</a>
Stephen Kuzner
2010-11-16T17:00:00Z
MESSI-DEPENDANCE IS A MYTH
Stephen Kuzner
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/MESSI-DEPENDANCE-IS-A-MYTH/-962167310955183307.html
2010-11-11T20:00:00Z
2010-11-11T20:00:00Z
By Stephen Kuzner - WFD Fan Correspondent<br><br>You hear it over and over from those that cover or support Real Madrid: Barcelona is dependant on Lionel Messi. Barca is Messi-dependant. When Messi doesn't perform, Barca doesn't perform. How do you stop Barcelona? Just stop Messi. They are sooo dependant on him. The thought process seems to be, "Look see. Messi scored a goal. They are dependent on him." This logic kind of drives me nuts. It's as if the team that recorded the most points in La Liga history last year has a co-dependant relationship with the world's greatest player. Is Messi a drug? Is Messi's health and form an unfair thing? Maybe we hear this because the world's other best player, Cristiano Ronaldo, wasn't fit a good bit of last year and Real Madrid won no trophies. Describing a team as dependant on a single player in an eleven-a-side game doesn't really respect the other players on the field.<br><br> <br><br>Messi-dependence is a myth.<br><br>Let's take a look at the numbers. This year Messi has 14 out of Barcelona's 38 goals across 16 games between La Liga, Champions League, and Spanish Cup. That leaves 24 goals form the rest of the team. This sounds more like Messi is Barcelona's leading scorer than a crutch. If we take a look over at Madrid, Ronaldo has 15 out of Madrid's 39 goals in 16 games across all competitions. These are near identical numbers. The conclusion? Barcelona without Messi probably would lose to Madrid and Madrid without Ronald likely goes down to Barcelona. Losing one of the two best players in the world would hurt any team. But, it doesn't necessarily mean they are dependant. Look at Madrid last year. Sure, Barcelona won the title, but Madrid had the second most points ever. Every other La Liga team in history would have finished at best second last year.<br><br>Further proof is in Barcelona's squad. Without Messi, Barca's Best 11 is Valdés, Abidal, Piqué, Puyol, Alves, Iniesta, Busquets, Xavi, Pedro, Villa, and Krkic. Isn't this pretty much the same team that just won the World Cup with Spain? These guys were hardly Messi-dependant over the summer. The past two weeks, these guys are starting to wake-up from their World Cup hang-over. Messi picked-up their slack in the beginning. Just to be fair, Madrid's Best 11 without Ronaldo is Casillas, Marcelo, Carvalho, Pepe, Ramos, Alonso, Özil, Khedira, di María, Higuaín, and Leon. That's a squad that could win La Liga or any other league in the world. It's funny to hear the spin that Madrid's cakewalk of an early season fixture list is fortunate for developing chemistry and not a dependence.<br><br>Messi is clutch. Superstars should be clutch. So have been Pedro, Iniesta, Krkic, and Villa throughout their careers. If Messi doesn't step-up, someone else will. Slowing-down Messi does not mean stopping Barcelona.<br><br> <br><br>How do you stop Barcelona?<br><br>Surprise, ensnare, entrap, and attack. Hercules did it this year. Last season in the Champions League, Mourinho's Inter Milan ambushed Barcelona on the counter-attack and defended bravely. Barcelona can be beaten by waylaying their possession and attacking their high backline. To beat Barcelona, interrupt and limit their possession, thus reducing their opportunities. This is easier said than done.<br><br><br><br><br><br><br>If you have feedback, email me at skuzner@gmail.com or <a href="http://www.facebook.com/home.php#!/skuzner?v=wall&ref=ts">Facebook me.</a>
Stephen Kuzner
2010-11-11T20:00:00Z
MLS Playoff Predictions Part 2
Heath Harshman
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/MLS-Playoff-Predictions-Part-2/-750972752007036613.html
2010-11-09T22:00:00Z
2010-11-09T22:00:00Z
By Heath Harshman- WFD Fan Correspondent<br><br>Well that didn't go as planned. After the first round of the MLS playoffs last week the upcoming round looks a bit different than most people (me) thought it would. Lower seed upsets by FC Dallas, San Jose and the Colorado Rapids sent the MLS world tumbling. No matchup more than the brilliantly exciting 3-2 aggregate victory by the Earthquakes over big favorite New York Red Bulls epitomized the first round more. With the semifinals at hand it will be interesting to see what twists and turns the MLS playoffs still have to offer. With that in mind, here are my thoughts and picks for the upcoming round of MLS action.<br><br> <br><br>Los Angeles Galaxy vs. FC Dallas (November 14, 6pm PT on ESPN2/Deportes)<br> <br><br>In the Western Conference finals the Galaxy, who dispatched one of the hottest MLS teams in the Seattle Sounders with ease in round one, take on FC Dallas, who were impressive themselves, defeating defending MLS Cup Champion Real Salt Lake.<br><br>The Supporter's Shield winning Galaxy was lead by MLS MVP candidate Edson Buddle, who tallied twice over the two legs. A stunning first-leg volley from 30 yards out gave Los Angeles a 1-0 advantage going into the second leg, where David Beckham would set up two more Galaxy goals en route to a smooth 3-1 win.<br><br>Meanwhile, FC Dallas, one of the surprises of this MLS season, took out Real Salt Lake 3-2 on aggregate. Second half substitute Eric Avila powered home a line drive goal in the 88th minute of the first leg to give Schellas Hyndman's men a 2-1 victory. That goal meant that the 1-1 road draw in Salt Lake put Dallas through to the conference finals, something not many Dallas fans thought possible after going their first six games of the season without recording a victory.<br><br>The keys in this matchup are fairly obvious. Golden boot runner-up Edson Buddle will need to be target number one for the Dallas defense, which has allowed just .93 goals per game this season. Goalkeeper Kevin Hartman, formerly a member of the Los Angeles Galaxy, will need to keep up his stunning season form, which saw him lose just once in twenty matches.<br><br>While a lineup including Buddle, Beckham, American talisman Landon Donovan and young Brazilian Juninho is about as frightening as an MLS team can get, the Galaxy defense will also have their hands full. Dallas playmaker and MLS MVP candidate David Ferreira and 13-year MLS veteran Jeff Cunningham have combined for 19 goals and 14 assists this season and were both integral parts of the FC Dallas second half run, in which they lost just twice since the month of June.<br> <br><br>Prediction: In what is going to be a much more exciting matchup than most think, Dallas gives the Galaxy a tough matchup, but Los Angeles has just enough offense to get them through, 3-1 to L.A. (Extra credit to up my credentials after going 1-3 on predictions in the first round: Donovan gets two of the three goals.<br><br> <br><br>Colorado Rapids vs. San Jose Earthquakes (November 13, 6:30pm PT on FSC)<br><br> <br>In what is dubbed the "Eastern Conference Finals", despite having no team east of the Mississippi river, the Rapids and Earthquakes offer one of the more interesting playoff matchups in recent memory. Both Western Conference teams upset the only two Eastern Conference teams to make the playoffs and both did so in exciting fashion.<br><br>The Colorado Rapids just barely edged the 2008 MLS Cup Champion Columbus Crew on penalties after the two teams tied 2-2 on aggregate. After taking the home leg 1-0, the Rapids were saved in the final 10 minutes of the second leg after Conor Casey skillfully toe poked the aggregate tying goal after the Crew managed a 2-0 lead. The match then went to penalties where Crew midfielder Brian Carroll skied his kick over the crossbar to send the Rapids to the MLS semis.<br><br>The most exciting tie of the MLS playoffs thus far was the upset of the New York Red Bulls by the San Jose Earthquakes. Despite losing the home leg of the tie 1-0, the Chris Wondolowski lead Earthquakes battled to a dramatic 3-1 road win to move on to the next round. MLS veteran Bobby Convey got the comeback started with a sixth minute goal in the second leg and added to the realism of advancing after scoring again in the 76th. But just two minutes later Red Bulls striker Juan Pablo Angel brought the tie level at 2-2 and put New York back in the pole position. Then came the moment that some expected, some thought too improbable and some couldn't believe. He had a poor first leg and had yet to contribute much in the second leg, but San Jose Earthquakes MVP (and my vote for MLS MVP) Chris Wondolowski headed home a brilliant early cross from Convey to once again put the Earthquakes in place to advance. They held on and now are just one game away from reaching the MLS Cup final after being the last team to clinch a playoff spot.<br><br>These two MLS semifinalists offer a few great matchups to watch for. Both teams allowed an average of over a goal per game and have offensive weapons to do damage. Wondolowski will obviously be a key for the Rapids defense. The Red Bulls successfully marked him for around 170 minutes in the first round and the Colorado coaching staff would've been keen to take notes on that. Wondo has tallied 18 of the Earthquakes 34 goals this season, around 53% of the total. Also, no player other than Wondolowski has tallied more than three goals this season for San Jose. Shutting him down could be the key to Colorado progressing.<br><br>The Rapids are a bit deeper than the Earthquakes, but not much. Striking tandem Conor Casey and Omar Cummings scored 27 goals this season, more than 50% of the Rapids total. Having those two combine well and work together in attack will be the most important thing for San Jose to disrupt. The Earthquakes let the Red Bulls garner much of the possession in the first round of the playoffs, but did a good job of not letting that possession turn into scoring opportunities. Doing what the Red Bulls couldn't and capitalizing on those chances will be the biggest factor in who advances from this tie.<br><br> <br>Prediction: A really tough call in a match that I can really see going either way. Home field in the altitude may just be the difference maker, I'll go 1-0 to Colorado as someone finally figures out Wondo and the Rapids sneak into the MLS Cup Final.<br><br><br>In addition to being a weekly blogger for WFD, I write for the Washington State University student newspaper, The Daily Evergreen, where I have a weekly sports column. I am also a WSU Men's basketball correspondent for Jim Basnight and mynorthwest.com. You can find past pieces and follow my work not only for WFD but for The Daily Evergreen and mynorthwest.com by following me on twitter <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/HeathHarshman">@heathharshman</a> or adding me on <a href="http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1191161409">facebook</a>. Any feedback is welcome at heath_harshman@yahoo.com.
Heath Harshman
2010-11-09T22:00:00Z
LA LIGA ROUNDUP - COULD VILLARREAL WIN THE EPL?
Stephen Kuzner
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/LA-LIGA-ROUNDUP---COULD-VILLARREAL-WIN-THE-EPL/707790112744314683.html
2010-11-09T15:00:00Z
2010-11-09T15:00:00Z
By Stephen Kuzner - WFD Fan Correspondent<br><br>After 10 Rounds of La Liga, there are some surprises. Espanyol sits in a Champions League spot at #4 and Real Sociedad briefly occupied a Europa League slot at #6 before Sevilla beat Valencia earlier yesterday. And, #15 Deportivo La Coruña have dug themselves out of the relegation zone, while Hercules saw themselves slide down to #17 after a few weeks flirting with the Europa League positions. The table remains fluid with Atlético Madrid, Mallorca, and Athletic Bilbao just shy of European football places. Some things haven't changed with Real Madrid and Barcelona sitting atop the table. However, Villarreal remain 2 points from the top having earned 23 out of 30 points. The table has been so topsy-turvy over the past couple weeks, it has me thinking strange things. If Villarreal were to beat Barcelona this week at the Camp Nou, they'd have 26 points after 11 games. That would be more than Chelsea in the EPL with 25 after 11 games.<br><br> <br><br>Could Villarreal win the EPL?<br><br>Now this would be saying a lot between La Liga and the Barclays Premiership if La Liga's #3 team is as good as or better than the EPL's #1. Yet, beating Barcelona on the road, particularly with Barcelona's form as of late, would be a tall order for anyone. Is comparing Chelsea and Villarreal crazy or not that far-fetched?<br><br>There are some striking similarities between the clubs. Their records are analogous with Chelsea at 8-1-2 and Villarreal at 7-2-1. Chelsea have scored 27 and given-up 5. Villarreal have scored 21 (in one less game) and let-in 8. Giuseppe Rossi has 7 goals and so does Florent Malouda. Didier Drogba has scored 6 goals and so has Nilmar. Both have aging highly-capped stalwart center-backs in Carlos Marchena and John Terry. Both have cornerstone right-backs with their clubs and as well as countries with Ashley Cole and Joan Capdevila. Each have central-midfielders just-past their prime in Marcos Senna and Frank Lampard. Chelsea has more strength in the back with Alex and Branislav Ivanovic, but Villarreal has more creativity going forward with Santi Cazorla and Borja Valero.<br><br>Considering all this, the comparison doesn't look that far off-base, especially if you consider that Villarreal has more points in less games than Manchester United and Arsenal. Maybe Villarreal would have a real shot in the EPL? Still, if you were to use the gun-to-my-head test (cleverly used on Cougartown last week) to force me to make a decision as to whether Villarreal would win the EPL, the answer will be no. They don't have as much depth as Chelsea, ManU, Arsenal, or Manchester City. On a European night, it might be a different story, but at Bolton on a February Monday is something else.<br><br>Up to this point, Villarreal's consistency must be lauded and must be feared. They'd be pretty dangerous in the Champions League had they qualified. We'll see their true mettle this weekend against an in-form Barca squad that doesn't seem to have lost much focus with El Clásico right around the corner.<br><br><br><br><br>If you have feedback, email me at skuzner@gmail.com or <a href="http://www.facebook.com/home.php#!/skuzner?v=wall&ref=ts">Facebook me.</a>
Stephen Kuzner
2010-11-09T15:00:00Z
Dear Pep, .... Sincerely, Jose
Stephen Kuzner
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Dear-Pep,-....-Sincerely,-Jose/83434483797648929.html
2010-11-04T15:00:00Z
2010-11-04T15:00:00Z
By Stephen Kuzner - WFD Fan Correspondent<br><br>"Dear Pep,<br><br> <br><br>The Special one here. I wanted to drop you a quick note to say I know what you are doing. I figured you out last year and I am the Champion. Not you. I am on to you Mr. Pep, with you using all kinds of formations and systems. I am not fooled. Many different systems across your games, but the same style of play. You can not teach the teacher and I am the teacher. On the 28th, I will spring a trap on you and Barcelona that you haven't seen before. Also, when Madrid wins, I'll be ready for the sprinklers to be turned-on me with a raincoat and umbrella.<br><br> <br><br>Sincerely,<br><br>Jose Mourinho"<br><br> <br><br>I'd like to think I intercepted a note like this in the mail, but as far as I know, this kind of note is a work of fantasy. El Clásico looms in 22 days and talk has already been brewing. Xavi said that he hypothetically would not work well in Madrid. The pieces around him would not gravitate around his pivot. Gerard Piqué insists that Barca will continue to play their way until they die. Perhaps this is the beginning of the mind-games Pep will have Barca's players engage-in similar to the courting of Cesc Fàbregas. How entertaining would it be for Barca to get under Mourinho's skin the way they did with Arsène Wenger?<br><br>Yet, the note above lends insight into what Pep could be masterminding for Madrid, La Liga, and the Champions League. I've read many analysis's of Barcelona's tactics, systems, and formations this year whether it's their classic 4-3-3, 4-4-2, 4-5-1, 4-2-3-1, or whatever. I've even heard their shape resembling that of an old-timely W-W. If that sounds like a foreign language, read Jonathan Wilson's "Inverting the Pyramid" or his column for the Guardian. W-W is a 2-3-2-3 with the full-backs playing advanced on both sides. Don't worry if you haven't heard of this, it's from the 1930's. There is some validity with Wilson's argument, but I think we need to dig deeper.<br><br>Maxwell, Abidal, Piqué, Puyol, and Alves, can all attack and do get forward at different points. Busquets can drop-back as a center-back. Pedro, David Villa, and Messi all seem to have played in all three attacking spots. Many parts are inter-changeable. The formation doesn't matter. Our fictional Jose, is on to something. The possession-based, attacking, pressing, total-football style of Barcelona hasn't changed. Where every player ends-up executing the style is not important. At this point, a year removed from winning six trophies, what does matter is disguising the style and points of attack as much as possible.<br><br>A few weeks ago, I had a Facebook conversation with some friends about what formation/system Barcelona should use. The conversation was driven by how to best utilize Javier Mascherano. The result of the conversation is that we could come-up with a dozen line-ups and formations that looked good on paper. Pep Guardiola has already used most of them. As the season unfolds we'll see if the systems are red-herrings to conceal the style or just experimentations.<br><br><br>If you have feedback, email me at skuzner@gmail.com or <a href="http://www.facebook.com/home.php#!/skuzner?v=wall&ref=ts">Facebook me.</a>
Stephen Kuzner
2010-11-04T15:00:00Z
Could overconfidence hold back Nani?
Betfair's View
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Could-overconfidence-hold-back-Nani/-136467826890912253.html
2010-11-03T15:00:00Z
2010-11-03T15:00:00Z
Betfair Guest Blogger- <br><br>Setting aside the massive amount of controversy surrounding his goal for Manchester United at the weekend against an unfortunate Tottenham side, Nani's strike was undoubtedly a crucial one in making the scoreline look slightly more comfortable for the Red Devils.<br><br>However, does poking the ball into the back of an empty net from close range mean you should dub yourself one of the best players in the world? Those were the words uttered by Nani after the game at the weekend, with the player now confident that he's cut out the inconsistency and inaccuracies in the final third that had haunted his game to become the complete player. They were certainly problems that had been highlighted by the <a href="http://www.betfairfootball.com/">Betfair Specialists</a> in the past.<br><br>Now, there's no doubting that confidence in a player, particularly an attacking player, is always a good thing, just look at what can happen to talented players such as Fernando Torres and Wayne Rooney when levels of self-belief aren't as high as they should be. However, Nani still hasn't convinced the majority of United fans he's capable of becoming the next big thing at the club, so might his overconfidence end up holding him back?<br><br>Players with a point to prove are often the most deadly in the Premier League. Just think back to the rapid improvements made by Joe Cole at Chelsea when Jose Mourinho launched a stinging public attack on the player despite some promising performances for the Blues. Cole used those comments to improve those areas of his game that weren't yet at the highest level and ended up becoming a crucial player for club and country.<br><br>David Beckham and Frank Lampard are two more examples of players unwilling to believe their own hype. Subsequently, the extra hours spent at their respective club's training grounds ended up turning this pair into two of the best midfielders the game has ever seen. <a href="http://www.betfairfootball.com/premier-league/manchester-united/andys-tuesday-tips---man-utd-to-stay-top-011110.html">The football betting</a> suggests Nani won't be netting any personal accolades soon though, but can he push on to great heights in future?<br><br>With Nani clearly believing that his game needs no further improvements or adaptations, could his high confidence levels actually turn out to be the worst possible thing for the player - and United - in the long term?
Betfair's View
2010-11-03T15:00:00Z
LA LIGA ROUND-UP, MLS WAS MORE INTERESTING
Stephen Kuzner
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/LA-LIGA-ROUND-UP,-MLS-WAS-MORE-INTERESTING/-970617899805106239.html
2010-11-03T05:00:00Z
2010-11-03T05:00:00Z
By Stephen Kuzner - WFD Fan Correspondent<br><br>There I sat on my coach Sunday early-evening trying to catch-up on the few La Liga matches I'd missed, but had DVR'd. In the past few weeks I've consumed all-you-can-eat portions of La Liga trying to be as knowledgeable as I could for this column on WFD's site. And after nine rounds where has it got me? A table with Espanyol (#5) and Mallorca (#7) each overachieving a little bit, but everyone else about where you would expect them. The SPL on steroids? I don't think that's fair. But, ridiculously predictable? Yes. Real Madrid and Barcelona are on pace for 97 and 92 points respectively. A discussion about how to redistribute the television money more similar to the EPL could not come at a more vital than now. In case you were wondering, this is what the table looks like ...<br><br><br>1. Real Madrid<br><br>2. Barcelona<br><br>3. Villarreal<br><br>4. Valencia<br><br>5. Espanyol<br><br>6. Atlético Madrid<br><br>7. Mallorca<br><br>8. Sevilla FC<br><br>9. Athletic Bilbao<br><br>10. Getafe<br><br>11. Real Sociedad<br><br>12. Racing Santander<br><br>13. Osasuna<br><br>14. Hercules<br><br>15. Sporting Gijon<br><br>16. Almeria<br><br>17. Levante<br><br>18. Málaga<br><br>19. Deportivo La Coruña<br><br>20. Real Zaragoza<br><br><br>As entertaining as watching Sporting Gijon and Villarreal unjustifiably draw 1-1 due to some shocking officiating, I found myself drifting to thoughts of MLS Cup Playoffs. At least I have the Seattle Sounders and LA Galaxy at 8:00 PM. Did I just think that? I musingly watched what a Giuseppe Rossi and Jozy Altidore fantasy-partnership might look like for the US national team. Can't Rossi see that we have a better cast to create opportunities for him? Maybe I'm seeing things through rose-filled glasses.<br><br>If you did see the Sounders and Galaxy, you saw the future of sport in America. The more people see that kind of atmosphere on television, the more casual viewers will drop-in. The Sounders supports were strident "Green Hell". They looked and sounded like they believed in something. There are a lot of people that want to feel that they are part of something bigger than themselves. Drew Carey and his boys got this soccer thing down really well. You had to feel for them when Edson Buddle had his wonder-shot.<br><br>Looking around the field, it was remarkable how much the talent-level has increased in MLS in just the past few years. You had rising-stars that will likely soon be plucked by bigger clubs like Fredy Montero (23), Steve Zakuani (22), Sanna Nyassi (21), Omar Gonzalez (22), and Adolph Joseph DeLaGarza (22). There were MLS veterans with Edson Buddle, Jeff Parke, James Riley, Sean Franklin, Dema Kovalenko, and Mike Magee. Long-time international greats with Kasey Keller and Eddie Lewis of the US, Donovan Ricketts of Jamaica, and Leonardo Arce Gonzalez of Costa Rica. Stars of this summer's World Cup with Landon Donovan and Blaise Nkufo. Finally, there was a FIFA World Player of Year runner-up in David Beckham. The thing is, this was just a first round game. Now, I'm not going to lose the plot and start comparing MLS with La Liga in terms of talent, quality, tactics, or technique. If I do, commit me. But, in terms of interest these next couple weeks, MLS has the edge.<br><br><br>If you have feedback, email me at skuzner@gmail.com or <a href="http://www.facebook.com/home.php#!/skuzner?v=wall&ref=ts">Facebook me.</a>
Stephen Kuzner
2010-11-03T05:00:00Z
LORD OF XAVI'S RINGS
Stephen Kuzner
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/LORD-OF-XAVIS-RINGS/882439564181819776.html
2010-10-29T14:00:00Z
2010-10-29T14:00:00Z
By Stephen Kuzner - WFD Fan Correspondent<br><br><br>Barcelona recently started their "We Give Everything" campaign to show the team's commitment to FC Barcelona thus inviting the supporters to fill the Camp Nou every game. Pedro, Iniesta and Messi will be the first group of players to feature in the ad campaign. What might be a more fitting campaign is "we'll give everything for another Xavi". It's funny how quickly Barca-nation has jumped into a frenzied pursuit of the eventually heir-apparent for the 30 year-old master playmaker due to him missing a few games and slow-ish start to Barcelona's 2010-11 season. This obsession rivals Sméagol/Gollum's desire for "the ring" in The Lord of the Rings.<br><br>There seems to be a hyper-sensitivity to finding an apprentice for Xavi since Barcelona's failure to sign their youth-academy product and Arsenal captain Cesc Fàbregas during the summer's transfer period. There could be a one year wait-and-sell plan between Barcelona and Arsenal, but I don't' buy it. Even if Barcelona had the money that Arsenal would want, which this past summer's audit said they didn't, President Sandro Rosell is in no place public relations-wise to make such a high-priced purchase with the financial witch-hunt the current Barca regime have put the club through. Spending 40-50 million on a single player may be political suicide even for bringing Barca's prodigal son back home.<br><br>So if not Cesc, then who? This past week, there was talk of Palermo' s Javier Pastore and PSV Eindhoven's Ibrahim Afellay. Both fine players that would be fit in the Barca-mold and would cost a pittance compared to Fàbregas' potential price-tag. Pastore's possible future at Barcelona may lie in the hand's Lionel Messi. Messi spoke often of his desire to play with fellow Argentine Javier Mascherano. Mascherano is a player not of the Barca-style and is learning the trade. Any pull that Messi could possible have at Barcelona is little talked about or not all. Any future Pastore could have at the Camp Nou would need "The Messi-ah's blessing. Ibrahim Afellay? A potentially great signing for the squad, but an apprentice for Xavi at age 24? I'm not sure.<br><br>The saddest thing for the Blaugranes is that the club failed to sign two players that now, not later, would not only be adequate help for Xavi, but are already contributing to their teams in impactful ways. The first and most obvious is Mesut Özil at Real Madrid. This stings twice being that he signed with Madrid and signed for half the price of Mascherano. I am not going to belabor this point because anyone following World-Football knows the steal of a signing that Özil was for Madrid.<br><br>Up to his year, you would only know the second player that slipped through Barcelona's fingers if you read and listened to Tim Vickery or followed Brazil's domestic league. Lazio's Hernanes has been on Barcelona's radar for a couple of years. However, Barca balked and Lazio stepped-up and signed him. Don't get me wrong, not signing Hernanes is not like Barcelona missing-out on Alfredo Di Stéfano, however, Hernanes play-making and short-passing game would be a very close like-for-like exchange for Xavi. Lazio sits atop the Serie A table and are benefitting from Hernanes hitting his prime at age 25.<br><br>At this point, I am done with Cesc-gate and Lord of Xavi's Rings (and he has a lot of them). Barcelona will never replace Xavi. The best Barcelona can do is to continue to develop players and spend wisely and frugally.<br><br> <br><br>If you have feedback, email me at skuzner@gmail.com or <a href="http://www.facebook.com/home.php#!/skuzner?v=wall&ref=ts">Facebook me.</a>
Stephen Kuzner
2010-10-29T14:00:00Z
Is Owen's injury the final curtain call?
Tim Mallow's View
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Is-Owens-injury-the-final-curtain-call/-955605667650194497.html
2010-10-28T15:00:00Z
2010-10-28T15:00:00Z
TMR Football Blogger, Tom Mallows- <br><br>Throughout his long and high-profile career, Michael Owen has thrilled those looking at <a href="http://news.ladbrokes.com/en-gb/football">football betting tips</a> with his mazy runs, been turned into a hero at St James's Park, Anfield, and to a lesser degree Old Trafford, and experienced life at Real Madrid.<br><br>However, following the revelation that he is once again set for a spell on the sidelines with an injury problem (and yes... of course it's the hamstring again), is now the time for Owen to step down from the football stage and make the most of the good will he still receives from fans and the press in order to combat the Premier League's current image problem, with players becoming ever more synonymous with greed and excess?<br><br>Owen has always been seen by those assessing the <a href="http://news.ladbrokes.com/en-gb/football/football-betting-odds.html">football betting odds</a> as one of the quieter, more refined players in English football and is therefore one of the best positioned individuals to help the current crop of footballers tackle the image problem that they are having to deal with. Combine this with the fact that Fergie clearly no longer needs Owen, with young Javier Hernadez starting to impress the Old Trafford faithful, and you can see that, even when fit again, Owen is no longer going to be anything more crucial to the team than a bit part player.<br><br>With Ian Wright seemingly the 'face' of ex-professional players in his current role at The Sun, Owen is surely someone who could do a far better job at talking about the modern game and the way that it affects players, as he has recently done successfully on Radio Five Live.<br><br>If Owen did decide to pick this route for his career, then the destination of the Premier League is unlikely to be affected, with the striker rarely contributing to United's title efforts last season. Indeed, if he does stick around in the game and fight for his place, he may still find that, even if United win the league, he will not have been in the side enough times to qualify for a winners' medal.
Tim Mallow's View
2010-10-28T15:00:00Z
MLS Playoff Predictions
Heath Harshman
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/MLS-Playoff-Predictions/-147210234259495910.html
2010-10-27T06:00:00Z
2010-10-27T06:00:00Z
By Heath Harshman- WFD Fan Correspondent<br><br>They are finally here. The 2010 MLS playoffs are set to go and get under way Thursday night and will end with the MLS Cup at BMO Field in Toronto on November 21st. I, for one, am just happy that the MLS staff was able to figure out their playoff format and get the schedule set by Christmas. Regardless, Don Garber and company have set the first round and here is how it shapes up.<br><br> <br><br>Columbus v. Colorado<br><br> <br><br> The Rapids and Crew faced each other twice this season, each team winning their home match. Colorado took the first one in Denver after defender Drew Moor scored late on for a 1-0 victory. The match in Columbus went a decidedly different direction with the Crew taking the three points with a 3-1 win. The ability of the Crew to shutout arguably the most dynamic strike partnership in the league, Colorado's Omar Cummings and Conor Casey, over two matches could be the key to who advances in this series. Cummings and Casey have combined for 27 goals this season, 61% of the Rapids goal total.<br><br>The late season injury to starting Crew keeper William Hesmer will add another twist to this home-and-home two legged tie, which begins Thursday at 6pm in Denver. After starting 10 games in which he allowed 12 goals, Crew keeper Andy Gruenebaum will get his first start of the season in place of Hesmer. Gruenebaum has been a member of the Crew since 2006 and has made 23 starts and recorded four shutouts. The match will also be televised on ESPN2, one of four first round MLS playoff matches televised by the sports media giant.<br><br>Pick: Rapids move through in a close one as Cummings and Casey finally click, 3-2 on aggregate.<br><br> <br><br>Real Salt Lake v. Dallas<br><br> <br><br> The defending MLS Cup champions start their road to the repeat in Dallas on Saturday night (2pm PT on FSC), a place in which they have yet to record a victory, ever. These two teams split their two match season series, each team winning 2-0 at home. The latest match on October 16th in Utah was a matchup of two of the most in form teams in the league. Dallas was on a 19 match unbeaten streak while Salt Lake were unbeaten in 24 consecutive home matches. On that night it was Dallas' streak that ended, but with the first leg at Pizza Hut Park, head coach Schellas Hyndman and company have more than a puncher's chance at knocking out RSL.<br><br> Salt Lake and Dallas combined have just two players who tallied double-digit goals on the year, Alvaro Saborio and Jeff Cunningham respectively, as quality defense has been the key to their success this season. Both teams are in the top three in goals against average with Dallas at .93 and Salt Lake at .67 goals allowed per game. Whichever team that can steal a goal on the road will gain a huge advantage in what is sure to be one of the closest and tightly contested playoff matchups in recent memory.<br><br> Pick: Real Salt Lake get an away goal and make it stick at home, 2-1 on aggregate.<br><br> <br><br>New York v. San Jose<br><br> <br><br> In an "Eastern Conference" matchup between teams 2,500+ miles apart, the number one team in the East takes on the last team to secure a spot in the MLS playoffs. They each split their two match season series with each team shutting the other out at home. The Earthquakes took the Red Bulls behind the woodshed and won 4-0 earlier this season in May with four different goal scorers. After the acquisitions of Thierry Henry and Rafael Marquez, New York defeated San Jose 2-0 in the friendly confines, evening the season series.<br><br> The much heralded Henry, according to RBNY head coach Hans Backe, will likely miss the first leg in San Jose. The French striker has been hampered by a knee injury that has kept him out of the Red Bulls last two matches. A guy who will definitely be on the pitch at Buck Shaw stadium on Saturday night (7pm PT, Telefutura) is MLS Golden Boot award winner and San Jose striker Chris Wondolowski. The 27-year old Danville, CA native smashed home 18 goals on the year, nearly five times his career total before the 2010 MLS season. In his last four games Wondolowski, also in strong contention for MLS MVP, has tallied six goals, including a hat-trick in 61 minutes on October 20th against Chivas USA. He'll need to do much of the same if the Earthquakes are going to upset New York.<br><br> Pick: New York in a matchup that is closer than the score shows, 3-1 on aggregate.<br><br> <br><br>Seattle v. Los Angeles<br><br> <br><br> The Supporter's Shield winning Galaxy take on one of the hottest teams in the league in the Seattle Sounders, with the first leg on Halloween (5pm PT, ESPN2). You can thank the "brilliant" MLS playoff structure for this matchup. Los Angeles dominated the season series between the two west coast teams, winning both matches by a 7-1 aggregate. Since a July 4th 3-1 home loss to the Galaxy, the Sounders have gone on a great stretch, earning a 10-2-3 record with five of those ten wins coming on the road.<br><br> The Sounders defense will be sure to keep tabs on Edson Buddle, who came second to Wondolowski in the Golden Boot race, tallying 17 goals this season. Buddle, as well as 2010 MLS assist champion Landon Donovan and on fire David Beckham will give the back-to-back US Open Cup champion Sounders all they can handle. Seattle's talisman and leader in goals and assists, Fredy Montero, will need to be clicking with fellow striker and Swiss international Blaise Nkfuo for the Sounders to have a chance at progressing.<br><br> Pick: Sounders head to the conference finals after beating L.A. 3-1 on penalties as the teams tie 1-1 on aggregate.<br><br> <br><br> <br><br>In addition to being a weekly blogger for WFD, I write for the Washington State University student newspaper, The Daily Evergreen, where I have a weekly sports column. I am also a WSU Men's basketball correspondent for Jim Basnight and mynorthwest.com. You can find past pieces and follow my work not only for WFD but for The Daily Evergreen and mynorthwest.com by following me on twitter @heathharshman or adding me on facebook. Any feedback is welcome at heath_harshman@yahoo.com.
Heath Harshman
2010-10-27T06:00:00Z
Is this Chelsea's year in the Champions League?
Tim Mallow's View
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Is-this-Chelseas-year-in-the-Champions-League/-525138194020706692.html
2010-10-26T15:00:00Z
2010-10-26T15:00:00Z
TMR Football Blogger, Tom Mallows- <br><br><br>Ever since he swept into Stamford Bridge seven years ago, one thing has been on Roman Abramovich's mind - the Champions League.<br><br>His multimillion pound takeover of the club saw the influx of expensive world-class players as he looked to transform Chelsea into the best club on the continent.<br><br>Former boss Jose Mourinho led the Blues to two league titles at a canter, but the owner will only be completely satisfied when the European Cup arrives in the Stamford Bridge trophy cabinet.<br><br>They have come close, Mourinho led them to a semi-final against Liverpool in 2005 only for a disputed Luis Garcia goal to upset the <a href="http://betting.betfred.com/713/category/sport-betting-news/football-betting/">Champions League betting</a> and send the Reds through.<br><br>In 2008 they went one better, reaching the final in Moscow against Manchester United only to lose on penalties. That was despite only being a spot kick away from victory when John Terry stepped up, only to slip and put his shot against the post.<br><br>More heartbreak followed a year later when Barcelona scored an injury time equaliser in the semi final second leg at Stamford Bridge to deny Chelsea a place in the final on the away goals rule.<br><br>Last season it was former boss Mourinho who came back to haunt Chelsea, guiding his Inter side through 3-1 at the first round knockout stage before marching all the way to victory in the final against Bayern Munich.<br><br>That defeat knocked the stuffing out of Carlo Ancelotti's men last February, but credit to the players they turned it around to win the Premier League and FA Cup in style.<br><br>They have started this current campaign equally impressively. They sit top of the Premier League and have scored 23 goals in the process, while they also sit top of their Champions League group with two wins from two and look a guaranteed <a href="http://betting.betfred.com/713/sport-betting-news/football-betting/moratti-makes-messi-admission/">Champions League bet</a> to progress to the next round.<br><br>Ancelotti has won the competition before and was brought in by Abramovich for that exact purpose. With the Italian turning Chelsea into a free flowing, free scoring outfit, is this the year they banish the heartbreak and finally win Europe's biggest prize?
Tim Mallow's View
2010-10-26T15:00:00Z
LA LIGA ROUND-UP, MADRID DOMINATE
Stephen Kuzner
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/LA-LIGA-ROUND-UP,-MADRID-DOMINATE/-895032389453903961.html
2010-10-25T23:00:00Z
2010-10-25T23:00:00Z
By Stephen Kuzner - WFD Fan Correspondent<br><br>Right now, Real Madrid appear unstoppable. After eight games, they have 20 of 24 points, are undefeated, scored 22 goals for an average of 2.75 a game, and conceded only 4 goals for a 0.5 average. A slightly better start and they'd be perfect. They aren't just destroying teams. They are demoralizing them. We are witnessing one the greatest counter-attacks in a long time. This is the point of the season where Madrid start playing, in order, the same teams that Barcelona has already played. Barcelona beat Racing 0-3 on the road a few games ago. Madrid's 6-1 trouncing of Racing Santander not only topped Barcelona's win, but Ronaldo topped it himself with 4 goals. Let the games of one-up mans-ship begin. If the Madridistas were complaining about dullness a few weeks ago, they aren't now. Still, let's not get too carried away just yet. As great as Madrid has looked, they've played #9 Mallorca, #11 Osasuna, #16 Real Sociedad, #5 Espanyol, #13 Levante, #19 Deportivo La Coruña, #17 Málaga, and #19 Racing Santander. If you are counting, that is six of eight games against teams on the bottom half of the table. For now, we'll say they have finished warming-up for next few rounds against Hercules, Atlético Madrid, Sporting Gijon, Athletic Bilbao, Barcelona, and Valencia.<br><br>Villarreal continued to impress with a 2-0 victory over Atlético Madrid. The Yellow Submarine are unbeaten in seven games and off to their best-ever start in the Primera Division. Giuseppe Rossi scored his fifth goal of the season. I'd like to think about what the U.S. National team would look like with Giuseppe Rossi at the top of the attack with support from Clint Dempsey, Landon Donovan, Michael Bradley, Stuart Holden, Maurice Edu, and Jermaine Jones. It would be great if Bob Bradley could pry the New Jersey native from Italy.<br><br>Barcelona chugged-along with a 0-2 victory over Real Zaragoza at the La Romareda. Last year, Lionel Messi had a hat-trick in this one. This year he had just a brace. Wayne Hudson said it best, "Lionel Messi can enter a revolving door behind you and exit ahead of you". Barcelona is winning, but not winning convincingly. Finishing in front of goal is just not happening; particularly, David Villa will need to start putting more chances in goal. It's as if Barca and Madrid have switched places in terms of karma. Sevilla this week at the Camp Nou is a vital game for the Blaugranes.<br><br>Speaking of Sevilla FC, their 4-3 win over Athletic Bilbao was billed as the match to see and it lived-up to the billing. Luis Fabiano was finally back to his usual self with a brace. Ndri Romaric's long-ball to Fabiano that he chipped over Gorka Iraizoz was the goal of the week. The 1st half saw Sevilla constantly attacking. What Bilbao can take from the loss is being down 3-0, and then scoring 3 goals in the final 26 minutes. What will sting is that Sevilla scored twice on penalties one of which came-out of a highly-disputed tussle in the penalty box.<br><br>Rounding-out the rest, Valencia came back to reality with a loss 1-2 to Mallorca. They looked unusually poor against Mallocra's pressure. Espanyol beat Levante 2-1 and are exceeding all expectations early-on by sitting at #5 on the table. Almeria drew 1-1 with Hercules, Paraguayan international Hector Valdes netting his 4th goal of the season. Getafe gained 3 points to #7 on the table with a 3-0 win over Sporting Gijon. Osasuna defeated Málaga 3-0 and Deportivo La Coruña continued their poor form losing to Real Sociedad 3-0. Round #8 of La Liga was highlighted by Madrid's dominance and a large number of penalty-kicks.<br><br> <br><br>If you have feedback, email me at skuzner@gmail.com or Facebook me at http://www.facebook.com/home.php#!/skuzner?v=wall&ref=ts .
Stephen Kuzner
2010-10-25T23:00:00Z
STATE OF THE BARCA-UNION, MOURINHO-IZATION?
Stephen Kuzner
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/STATE-OF-THE-BARCA-UNION,-MOURINHO-IZATION/-173537742294879663.html
2010-10-21T23:00:00Z
2010-10-21T23:00:00Z
By Stephen Kuzner - WFD Fan Correspondent<br><br>Please forgive me for taking some much needed time to sort-out some things in my private life. I am back and here is the State of the Barca-Union. Barcelona is at a crossroads right now. Johan Cruyff's comments that he has "great respect" for, but is not a big fan of Jose Mourinho and his approach symbolize the two paths before Pep Guardiola and Sandro Rosell: to Mourihno-ize or to say true to Cruyff's total football roots. Spain and the Netherland's success at the world cup, using more defensive models, has not only fostered the proliferation of 4-5-1's, but may have caused one of the great bastion's of beautiful football to rethink its philosophy. Before I get carried away let me explain myself.<br><br>The 2-0 victory over Coppenhagen could be viewed as a match that easily could have been a five or six goal rout, but wasn't. David Villa was the only player in the box on what seemed like every cross or through-ball. Whether Barcelona was playing a 4-1-4-1, 4-3-3, or whatever, the important thing to point-out was that their midfield consisted of Maxwell, Sergio Busquets, and Javier Mascherano. That's a lot of steel and distribution, a moderate amount of creativity, and no finishing ability. Ok. Ok. I know Xavi was hurt and we are talking about Coppenhagen here, but why so defensive? The possession was 70% as usually. Isn't that Barcelona's defense, possession and pressing? Perhaps Guardiola feels that Mascherano needs to be used simply because his price-tag.<br><br>Twelve goals scored and six conceded in seven La Liga games. That's 1.7 goals a game. This is not the same high-flying Barcelona side of last year or the year before. However, it's not time to hit the panic button either. Possibly, Guardiola is just experimenting with more defensive approaches as to make Barca more well-rounded and the goals will come after he's done tinkering. The obsessive thing to do is grasp on to Cesc Fábregas as the only long-term heir-apparent to Xavi. Arsene Wenger expressed confidence in Fábregas' commitment to Arsenal this week. If there is a one-year deal in place or not, we won't know until the Summer. Cesc will not be in a Barcelona kit this year. More importantly, instead of signing Mascherano, Barcelona let Mesut Özil slip right through their fingers into Madrid's hands for half the price of Mascherano. Özil will cost one third to one fourth of the cost of Fábregas and there isn't much difference in quality between them from my point of view.<br><br>The cornerstone of this team has been Xavi, Puyol, and Iniesta. In the not so distance future, father time is going to catch-up to Xavi and Puyol. Xavi nursing his Achilles tendon could not be a more accurate representation to Barcelona's slow-ish start. Xavi may send a lot passes back or laterally, but everything the past few years came through him. Biblical in a way, all great things to Barcelona come through "The One True Xavi". This could almost be literally with sheer number of completed passes he generates in a game. In many ways he could be the most boring player of all time, yet this is what makes him and Lionel Messi great. Xavi hypnotizes the opposition like a snake and then Messi strikes for the kill with his directness.<br><br>Nevertheless, even if Barcelona hypothetically lose Xavi permanently, scoring opportunities should still be created via Messi, Iniesta, Pedro, David Villa and Dani Alves. However, Barcelona's three-headed beast of Henry, Eto, and Messi from two years ago still rings as the best model for Barcelona; there scorers and creators upfront, Xavi and Iniesta running the engine-room in the midfield backed-up by the multi-dimensional Busquets. This year, something similar will not be the formula, unless somehow in the winter transfer window Wayne Rooney or Fernando Llorente come. Probably more so than any other team on the planet, you can any formation and be able to make good line-up because Barcelona has so many flexible players. This may be tempting Pep to tinker with defensive possibilities.<br><br>It's early, but it's never too early to be a little paranoid as Barca supporter if Madrid sits atop the table and Rosell wants to put restrictions on who can join the club. At least the next few days should be a respite with games against Real Zaragoza and Ceuta. Then again, there was Hercules only a few weeks ago.<br><br> <br><br>If you have feedback, email me at skuzner@gmail.com or Facebook me at http://www.facebook.com/home.php#!/skuzner?v=wall&ref=ts .
Stephen Kuzner
2010-10-21T23:00:00Z
The Week of My Life
Andrew Dickson
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/The-Week-of-My-Life/-761165953588882213.html
2010-10-18T22:00:00Z
2010-10-18T22:00:00Z
By Andrew Dickson- Rangers.co.uk Journalist<br>This article was posted originally posted on <a href="http://www.rangers.co.uk/articles/20101018/the-week-of-my-life_2254024_2187860">Rangers.co.uk</a> on Mon 18 Oct 2010<br><br>MAURICE EDU says he's ready for what he feels is one of the biggest weeks of his career to date with Rangers over the next few days.<br><br>The American international looks certain to start against both Valencia in the Champions League on Wednesday then in the Old Firm derby at Celtic on Sunday.<br><br>Gers are in a fantastic position in their European group, having drawn at Manchester United on matchday one then beaten Bursaspor at Ibrox at the end of last month.<br><br>They're also in excellent form in the SPL, having won their first eight league games of the season for the first time since 1999.<br><br>But Edu knows there's no time to sit back and dwell on what has been achieved thus far because of the teams chasing the Light Blues both on the continent and at home.<br><br>If Valencia win at Ibrox, they'll move above Walter Smith's side in Group C while Celtic have matched the defending Scottish champions' start to the campaign.<br><br>Edu will continue to deputise for Lee McCulloch in midfield and he's optimistic it can be another good week for Rangers as they look to pull away from their rivals.<br><br>He said: "In terms club football, this is possibly one of the biggest weeks of my career so far.<br><br>"It's not often a Champions League game and an Old Firm game come in the same week but I'm looking forward to the two matches and everyone's excited.<br><br>"With Lee McCulloch being out injured it puts more onus on me in midfield but I'm up for that challenge.<br><br>"Having played a few games for USA recently and most of the games for Rangers this season, I feel like I'm ready for it.<br><br>"It'll be a big test against Valencia but we'll all be up for it at Ibrox. We're in a good position in the Champions League and we want to keep that going.<br><br>"They're both important games for different reasons but Valencia is first so we'll focus on that immediately. When that's done our attention will turn to Celtic.<br><br>"I'm excited about Wednesday. The atmosphere was incredible when we beat Bursaspor but it could be even more special against Valencia.<br><br>"Our Champions League nights at Ibrox are a great spectacle and it's brilliant to be part of them.<br><br>"To get a win at the end of last month - something which we hadn't done in a while in Europe - was special and the fans enjoyed it.<br><br>"We want to do the same against Valencia. We know they'll be tough opponents because they're doing well in La Liga at the moment but we'll be ready for the challenge."<br><br>Edu knows how tough it will be to keep Rangers' good run going two days from now but he has high hopes they can continue to hit the heights.<br><br>Even though Smith's squad is a small one, there are plenty of men in it at the top of their game right now.<br><br>And with the likes of Kenny Miller, Steven Davis, Steven Naismith and David Weir all impressing again at the weekend, Edu has every right to be confident.<br><br>He added: "We need to be that way and you can't go into games counting yourself out before you kick-off.<br><br>"We're in a good position and it would be foolish to get too far ahead of ourselves but we have belief and know what we're capable of achieving.<br><br>"If we stick together and stay united, the potential's there for something special in the Champions League this season.<br><br>"I'm not sure if we're exceeding expectations. After pre-season, we felt pretty good and started the season confidently.<br><br>"I don't know if we've surpassed the goals we set ourselves but I know this is where we wanted to be.<br><br>"When the Champions League draw was made I know a lot of people counted us out. But with the squad we've got, I felt we could do something and we're on track."<br><br><br>Find this article on the Ranger Football Club website:<br>http://www.rangers.co.uk/articles/20101018/the-week-of-my-life_2254024_2187860
Andrew Dickson
2010-10-18T22:00:00Z
JUDGE JORDAN WAS HOODWINKED: HE WILL SETTLE ACCOUNTS TOMORROW
Matt Switalski of <a href="http://www.worldsoccerusa.com">World Soccer USA</a>
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/JUDGE-JORDAN-WAS-HOODWINKED:-HE-WILL-SETTLE-ACCOUNTS-TOMORROW/326289577986742729.html
2010-10-14T17:00:00Z
2010-10-14T17:00:00Z
The antics of Hicks and Gillett have driven me to distraction. But, having correctly predicted Justice Floyd's ruling, I venture that Judge Jordan now sees the Plaintiffs for what they are: flim-flam men, who did not give him the whole story. Judge Jordan will end this charade tomorrow morning.<br><br><br>Last Saturday I posted In Re Liverpool: A Judge Predicts How The High Court Will Rule. With the invaluable help of Horace Rumpole, I explained how I would handle the forthcoming High Court case between RBS and the Liverpool owners, Tom Hicks and George Gillett. You can read it yourself, but I forecast that Hicks and Gillett were on a hiding to nothing and would be put to the sword before Mr. Justice Floyd. I appeared as a guest on World Football Daily on Monday and explored all contingencies with Steven Cohen and Kenny Hassan. Wednesday's ruling went exactly as I predicted.<br><br>Until about 8:30pm London time, that is. As a former prosecutor and as a sitting trial court judge for 8 years, I am cynical by nature. But even I didn't realize how utterly shameless Hicks and Gillett would prove to be. One can imagine Joseph Welch sitting across the table, beseeching them, "Have you no decency, sir, at long last?". I will not underestimate them again. The Texas filing takes the concept of chutzpah to a whole new level. Today, Mr. Justice Floyd called it for what it was: a shameless, cowardly attempt to abuse the court system for personal, venal ends.<br><br>So the British High Court has spoken. Where does that leave the Honorable James Jordan, in Dallas, Texas? He has adjourned the matter to tomorrow morning, where a decision is expected in short order. Here are the key points to consider for tomorrow:<br><br>Judge Jordan is neither a knave nor a fool. There has been predictable outrage to Judge Jordan's decision to grant the Temporary Restraining Order, but it has been unfair and over the top. When Liverpool's QC mocks Judge Jordan before the British judge, he may make the gallery laugh, but he's not doing his client any favors. People need to understand how this works. A trial court judge gets this type of request frequently. A party seeks a restraining order on an ex parte basis, and the immediate relief sought is temporary, pending a full hearing with both sides present. The jurist can only go by the information he's provided. A judge will often err on the side of granting the TRO, knowing that within a few days, the other side will have the opportunity to convince him to set it aside. If the lawyers are giving the judge a woefully misleading portrait of the facts in their pleadings, the judge can't know that at the time. I may not have granted it, but granting the TRO was not outrageous from the perspective of the judge. And he did not grant a blank check. Judge Jordan repeatedly added the word "solely" to the prepared order, making each paragraph state, "Based solely on the allegations.......". That may seem like a meaningless addition, but I see it as the judge emphasizing that the TRO is only as good as the ex parte representations it relies upon. Should those prove inaccurate, the Judge's decision regarding the injunction is foretold. Beyond that, the judge struck the owners' request to prohibit the defendants from "taking any action in any other court to effect or impede this lawsuit". Far from being a knave or a fool, this was a shrewd move by Judge Jordan, as it avoided a direct confrontation with the British court and left Justice Floyd room to maneuver.<br><br>Tom Hicks and George Gillett have been exposed as knaves and fools. As Justice Floyd stated today, there is no question that the Texas lawsuit was in the works while Justice Floyd was hearing evidence on the case in London. To avoid raising the issues in London, while searching for a friendly forum is outrageous, sanctionable behavior. And some of the allegations in the complaint beggar belief. Justice Floyd made clear that Hicks and Gillett had agreed back in April that only Martin Broughton had the power to alter the composition of the board. To knowingly breach that agreement, and to then argue in the Texas complaint that Purslow and Ayre engaged in ultra vires acts as a rogue board is so shameless it is literally breathtaking. It is equivalent to murdering one's parents and seeking mercy at sentencing on the grounds that you are an orphan. And my bet is that Judge Jordan is beginning to get a clearer picture of what is at work here. Two amoral leveraged buyout operatives, trapped in the worst era of de-leveraging in 100 years. They will say and do anything to avoid judgment day. Their complaints that the team is undervalued in the NESV bid will be familiar to anyone who knows the stories of Lehman Brothers, Long Term Capital Management or Bear Stearns. When the market turns against you, the market is never rational, it never is valuing your stock, asset or trade accurately. And if you're not leveraged to the hilt, you have a chance to ride it out. When you're leveraged, you can't play for time. That is what this case is about, and I believe Judge Jordan has figured that out.<br><br>Judge Jordan will rescind the TRO, and the Texas case will proceed as to damages. There is an easy way out of this conflict between jurisdictions, and this is it. Now that the judge sees he was sold a bill of goods, he sees the TRO is a bad idea. And he also now realizes that rescinding it does not prejudice Hicks and Gillett, even if their allegations are true. This is where I disagreed with Judge Jordan's issuance of the TRO. To obtain a TRO, a plaintiff must show a probability of success on the merits, no adequate remedy at law (damages) and irreparable harm if the relief is not granted. Hicks and Gillett have an adequate remedy at law. If their allegations are true, a jury could return money damages against the defendants. There's no need to hold up a sale for that. I believe Judge Jordan realizes this now that he's been adequately briefed. And he also realizes that a creditor (RBS) is owed some 237m by the debtors (Hicks and Gillett) and he was tricked into signing an order that prohibits the creditor from being satisfied through either a sale to NESV or, incredibly, by foreclosing on the collateral, i.e. repossessing the club from Hicks and Gillett when they don't pay by tomorrow. I don't think Judge Jordan is happy about the position Hicks put him in, and I don't think he's impressed that they didn't even show up in London today. Dismissing the TRO solves the immediate problem and leaves the litigants to litigate the damages issue, either in Dallas or London. <br><br>NESV has a binding contract to buy the team, and RBS will not take money from any of Hicks and Gillett's stalking horses. Kenny Hassan asked the obvious question on Monday: If Hicks and Gillett have until October 15th to pay off the debt, how can a sale take place before that deadline? Answer: because by that logic no sale could take place before October 15th. Because they could always claim they still had time to refinance. Once the Board lawfully made an agreement with NESV, Hicks and Gillett's ability to refinance ended.<br><br>That is why they are behaving the way they are. The fourth official (Justice Floyd) has signaled 4 minutes of injury time, and the referee (Judge Jordan) is looking at his watch. And when Judge Jordan calls time on this match, there will be no swapping of shirts and no acknowledgment of the fans. They stand exposed as charlatans, without dignity nor honor. Nothing will become their tenure like their leaving of it. And they walk alone.<br><br><br><br>Matt Switalski is a 16th Circuit Court Judge in Macomb County, Michigan and is the managing editor of <a href="http://www.worldsoccerusa.com">World Soccer USA</a>. He appeared as a guest on World Football Daily on October 11 and October 14 to analyze the legal battle for Liverpool FC.
Matt Switalski of <a href="http://www.worldsoccerusa.com">World Soccer USA</a>
2010-10-14T17:00:00Z
USA and Columbia Match Report
Heath Harshman
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/USA-and-Columbia-Match-Report/52414747596183683.html
2010-10-13T22:00:00Z
2010-10-13T22:00:00Z
By Heath Harshman- WFD Fan Correspondent<br><br>The second friendly of the week for the United States Men's National Team ended in the same result as the first, as they drew 0-0 with Colombia Tuesday night at PPL Park in Pennsylvania. After a sluggish and cluttered first half a few changes from head coach Bob Bradley opened things up in the second half, but the US were unable to get the goal needed for the win. The final pass was missing from both squads throughout the match, which had just four shots on goal.<br><br> <br><br>Midfield<br><br>In continuing with the experimental nature of late, Bob Bradley once again put out a tinkered with side that featured Michael Bradley, Maurice Edu and new guy Jermaine Jones. The three started out the game in the midfield of a rare 4-3-3 United States formation. It was a Chelsea-esque diamond three with Edu holding the back while Jones and Bradley pushed forward. Although it was just 45 minutes for the new look trio, there was a lot of clutter and indecision. The three interchanged positions fluidly and often got caught unsure of where the others were. Edu, Bradley and Jones are all supremely talented midfielders and coach Bradley's ability to get all three of them on the field at once will be interesting to watch over the coming months.<br><br>Friend of WFD Edu was sacrificed at the half, leaving Bradley and Jones to once again work together in the center of midfield, as they did against Poland at the weekend. With one less man and more space the duo worked pretty well and created a lot more going forward. Jones once again looked very good, getting back in defense well while also spraying passes forward. Saying he has a definite spot of now may be a bit much, but if he continues to play this well it won't be long.<br><br> <br><br>Defense<br><br>Another fairly tinkered with part of the side was the back four. With Edu pushed into midfield, Clarence Goodson was paired with Oguchi Onyewu in the center of defense while Jonathan Spector and Heath Pearce took up the fullback positions.<br><br> It was a rough start for the defense, who within five minutes had almost allowed a goal, but Brad Guzan did well. The first 15 minutes overall were shaky for the defense, with a lack of communication and cohesion, which is to be somewhat expected in friendlies such as this. After an initial rough patch, that group did a decent job for the rest of the half and was looking comfortable over the last 15-20 minutes.<br><br>Two halftime defensive changes were made as former New England Revolution center back Michael Parkhurst and Aston Villa youngster Eric Lichaj came on for Onyewu and Spector respectively. While both did pretty well it was the debutant Lichaj who impressed the most. The 22-year-old Lichaj (pronounced: Lee-high) hustled non-stop and provided an attacking option down the right that had been missing for the first half, often combining well with Holden. He almost set up what would've been the game-winning-goal in the 85th minute after he put a great cross into Altidore, who headed straight at the keeper from six yards out, after a nice overlapping run down the right flank. Cherundolo's age along with Spector's spotty performances just may be enough for a young, attacking fullback like Lichaj to creep into the squad by the time World Cup qualifying begins.<br><br> <br><br>Attack<br><br>In the adventurous 4-3-3 that Bradley employed another young player got his debut, FC Dallas winger Brek Shea. Shea worked on the left with Holden our right and Altidore in the center. Shea, unlike Lichaj, seemed to be forcing a lot of his play and struggled to create down the left. Often cutting into the already cluttered center midfield, Shea didn't provide much service to Altidore and left much to be desired. But the 20-year-old was invited for a reason and has done exceptionally well in the MLS and deserves another shot.<br><br>Not receiving a whole lot of service from his teammates, Jozy Altidore didn't do much. He looked much livelier, as did most of the team, in the second half after Fulham forward Eddie Johnson came on and paired with Jozy up top. With Johnson doing more of the holding up role, Altidore got into better spaces in the defense and created well with Jones and 59th minute substitute Clint Dempsey, who came on for Stuart Holden.<br><br>The seemingly forgotten Johnson played well in his 45 minutes of action, providing another outlet for the midfield, which was desperately needed. Although he is far down the United State's forward pecking order, Johnson did well enough tonight to get another run out for the team, providing he sees time with Fulham.<br><br> <br><br>Verdict<br><br>All things considered the match wasn't a bad one for team USA. The rare experimental side of Coach Bradley is interesting to watch and seeing the quick integration of Jermaine Jones into the midfield will excite many US fans. More from Altidore would've been nice, as would more going forward from the Edu-Bradley-Jones midfield, but the clean sheet with a newer defense is a welcomed sight. Here's to more invention and tinkering from Bob Bradley on November 17th against South Africa in Cape Town.
Heath Harshman
2010-10-13T22:00:00Z
Redknapp eyes striking options
Tim Mallow's View
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Redknapp-eyes-striking-options/356304217425353244.html
2010-10-12T17:00:00Z
2010-10-12T17:00:00Z
TMR Football Blogger, Tom Mallows- <br><br>Harry Redknapp hasn't really hidden the fact that he still feels his Spurs side are a little short of a world class striker. In the summer, Redknapp unsuccessfully courted Seville's Brazilian Luis Fabiano as well as Dutchman Klass Jan Huntelaar, before missing out on both options.<br><br>Despite starting the season with four quality strikers in Defoe, Keane, Pavlyuchenko and Crouch, Redknapp is looking for players that will take them from breaking into the top four, into genuine <a href="http://news.ladbrokes.com/en-gb/football/premier-league/premier-league-betting.html">Premier League title odds</a> challengers.<br><br>Reports this week have suggested Redknapp has now singled out Real Madrid's Karim Benzema as his main target when the transfer window re-opens in January. Spurs will be one of a number of clubs linked with the French striker, who has failed to settle into life at the Santiago Bernabeu, since his big money move from Lyon last summer.<br><br>Since taking over in Madrid, Jose Mourinho has made it very clear that he sees the 22 year old as talented but lazy and has reportedly given the striker until January to prove his worth to the Real squad, or face being sold.<br><br>With Defoe currently sidelined with injury, Redknapp has made it painfully obvious he doesn't see Robbie Keane as part of the future of the club.<br><br><a href="http://news.ladbrokes.com/en-gb/football/premier-league">Premier League 2010-2011 betting</a> pundits note how the Irishman has only started one game all season despite Defoe's absence from the first team and looks to be on his way come January. That would clear some funds for Redknapp to spend on a new forward, capable of taking the club to the next stage.
Tim Mallow's View
2010-10-12T17:00:00Z
IN RE LIVERPOOL: A JUDGE PREDICTS HOW THE HIGH COURT WILL RULE
Matt Switalski of <a href="http://www.worldsoccerusa.com">World Soccer USA</a>
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/IN-RE-LIVERPOOL:-A-JUDGE-PREDICTS-HOW-THE-HIGH-COURT-WILL-RULE/767047480405000012.html
2010-10-09T21:00:00Z
2010-10-09T21:00:00Z
How would a High Court Judge in London handle the legal dispute between Liverpool FC and its erstwhile owners, Tom Hicks and George Gillett? Here's one jurist's prediction:Hicks and Gillett have no case.The sale will go through, and Hicks and Gillett will be gone, but not forgotten.<br><br>I am a lifelong Liverpool fan. I am also a trial court judge, in the Detroit area. I won election in 2002, and have handled criminal, civil and domestic matters ever since. And while I may actually know more about soccer than I do about law, I do have some familiarity with the type of issues that are at hand in the Liverpool saga. Accordingly, here's how next week's hearing might play out were I presiding at the high court in London:<br><br><br>BAILIFF: All rise. The Honorable Matthew S. Switalski now presiding, by special appointment from the Lord Chancellor. Please be seated.<br><br>COURT: Good morning, counsel. Please state your appearances for the record.<br><br>LFC COUNSEL: May it please the Court, Horace Rumpole, from Slaughter & May on behalf of Liverpool FC.<br><br>HICKS & GILLETT: May it please the Court, Claude Erskine-Brown, from Dewey, Cheatham & Howe on behalf of the owners, Tom Hicks and George Gillett.<br><br>COURT: Thank you, counsel. Mr. Rumpole, you may proceed on behalf of Liverpool.<br><br>H&G: Excuse me, your Honor, but.......why is an American jurist hearing this case?<br><br>COURT: Well, I happened to be vacationing in London, and the Lord Chancellor contacted me and requested I handle this matter because all the other judges are busy.<br><br>H&G: Busy with what?<br><br>COURT: They're all hearing super injunction requests from England internationals.<br><br>H&G: That makes sense, we have no objection.<br><br>COURT: Proceed, Mr. Rumpole.<br><br>LFC: If your Lordship pleases. I appear on behalf of Martin Broughton, chairman of Liverpool Football Club. The issue is simple. I ask that the Court issue a declaratory judgment in favor of Liverpool, finding that the majority of the board had the authority to approve a sale of the club.<br><br>COURT: Counsel for Hicks & Gillett, do you agree that is the issue?<br><br>H&G: Yes, your honor.<br><br>COURT: Then I have some questions. First, Mr. Rumpole, if Mr. Hicks and Mr. Gillett own the club, then how is it that they find themselves in the minority on the board?<br><br>LFC: Excellent question, my Lord. Because they don't really own the club any more, they haven't since April of this year. This was a leveraged buyout. The Americans borrowed 237m from the Royal Bank of Scotland. That loan had to be repaid in April 2010. H&G didn't have the ability to repay the loan. The Bank could have repossessed the club at that time. But RBS made a deal instead. RBS agreed to extend the repayment date for 6 months, to this October. In return, RBS told H&G they had to sell the club. Since H&G's credibility was at low ebb, RBS insisted that they have their own man at the helm, someone they trust, who would be looking out for the interests of the creditor. That man is Martin Broughton. And it was ordered at that time that Mr. Broughton was the only person who could change the composition of the board and that H&G could do nothing to frustrate any attempt to consumate a reasonable sale of the club.<br><br>H&G: But we own the club. Why can RBS dictate terms to us?<br><br>LFC: They have 237m reasons, my Lord.<br><br>COURT: Be civil, Mr. Rumpole.<br><br>LFC: If your Lordship pleases.<br><br>COURT: Mr. Rumpole, if I'm hearing you right, then the reality is that RBS really did repossess the club in April, and that H&G are owners in name only. Further, that Mr. Broughton is functioning essentially as a Receiver, just like in any other civil litigation, where the secured creditor faces a debtor who is behind on payment and the creditor doesn't trust the debtor to preserve the value of the asset. When you think about it, this is really no different than a foreclosure. H&G have had 6 months to redeem. And that's up on October 15th. You're not going to be able to repay that loan, correct?<br><br>H&G: Your Honor, we fully intend to repay that note by the 15th. We are negotiating with<br>several banks and hedge funds and we give you our word that we will be able to pay that obligation.<br><br>COURT: Did you wish to say something, Mr. Rumpole?<br><br>LFC: Yes, my Lord. We have a saying down the Old Bailey. Pull the other one sweetie. It's got bells on it.<br><br>COURT: That's uncalled for Mr. Rumpole........but I know what you mean. H&G, you don't deny that you committed to sell the club last April, do you?<br><br>H&G: No your Honor, we did. But a price of 300m grossly undervalues this asset. Liverpool FC is one of the 5 greatest football brands in the world. The only comparable ones are Real Madrid, Barcelona, Milan and Manchester Utd. The fair value price is 800m. By voting for a sale price of 300m, Mr. Broughton and the other 2 directors violated their duty to get the best price possible.<br><br>COURT: Let's talk about that. There's no question about the pedigree of the club. I think I'd add Bayern Munich to your list, but I'll tell you, I was in South Africa for the World Cup. I saw more Liverpool jerseys than any others. It was stunning. But just because it's one of the greatest clubs in the world doesn't make it any different from any other asset that needs to be sold. When a couple get divorced, they generally need to sell the house. They rarely agree on the listing price. The wife knows it is worth $500,000. The husband just wants it sold so he can stop the bleeding. He's happy to get what he owes and move on. The thing is, it doesn't need to be a hypothetical debate. You order a sale, and the fair market value is whatever price someone is willing to pay. Now if both parties agree that the price should be higher and can agree to wait for a market correction, than that's fine. But you don't have that luxury here. RBS doesn't want to carry you any more. Now, where do you get the idea that the club is worth 800m in this market?<br><br>H&G: My Lord, Forbes Magazine appraised the club @ 800m earlier this year. There's no more respected business journal in the world.<br><br>LFC: Will they be paying cash or cheque, my Lord? We have another saying round the Old Bailey.........<br><br>COURT: Save it, Mr. Rumpole. Judge Bullingham warned me about you.<br><br>LFC: How is the Old Darling? You're right, my Lord. I'll try to behave.<br><br>COURT: Look, the 800m figure is an estimate, an opinion, and they all sound plausible on paper. But the thing about the market is it can be unforgiving towards allegedly sound theories and estimates. Your illiquid asset is only worth what someone is willing to pay for it at any given time. Life is about timing. Yours, like Bear Stearns, Lehman Brothers and AIG's is bad. When you're highly leveraged, you don't have the luxury of waiting for the market to correct itself. You are forced to get out now. And everyone knows it. So the only issue is whether Mr. Broughton did all he reasonably could to get the best price he could. Mr. Rumpole, what do you say in regard to that?<br><br>LFC: My Lord, like you said, Liverpool is one of the top 5 brands on the planet, in the most popular sport in the world. Everyone knows this club, and everyone knows it is for sale. So I don't think anyone can argue they didn't know we were looking to sell. The owners have always been allowed to produce a buyer -- it hasn't happened. There were several poseurs who talked a big game in the media, but were frauds. NESV and John Henry did it right. They kept it quiet. Mr. Broughton met with them in Boston and in Liverpool. They did their due diligence. And 300m is a fair price in this environment for this club. 300m, for all intents and purposes, wipes out the acquisition debt. Liverpool is a highly profitable club; it's the acquisition debt and the interest payments on it that have been killing the club.<br><br>COURT: Actually, it's the fact that Liverpool haven't developed a player since Steven Gerrard. It's never been the money. It's the fact that the well has gone dry. Continue.<br><br>LFC: I agree my Lord. But a sale price of 300m wipes out the debt and gives the club the ability to move forward. <br><br>COURT: Look, there's no question it's in the best interest of the club. <br><br>H&G: But this sale would still leave us owing approximately 100m to creditors. Your Honor, you can't let them do this.<br><br>COURT: What do you want me to do? Clearly, RSB brought down the hammer in April. People<br>have never understood the import of that. Broughton was not brought in as a patsy. He came in to sell the club. Unless the price was 800m, you were never going to agree to it. Does it make sense to anyone that RBS sent Broughton into battle with an unloaded water pistol? No, he was given a full metal jacket. And the process produces the right answer. This is the capitalist system, the free market. Fair doesn't enter into it. Andgiven what's gone on during your tenure, I'm not sure you want to have that conversation anyway. Given that this was a leveraged buyout, your theory had to be that the value of the club would appreciate significantly. Part of that appreciation would have been based upon building the new stadium. But that never happened, and now the team isn't even in the Champions League. And there's no private TV contract. Given that you paid 219m in 2007, what exactly has happened since then to raise the value of the club? It's a rhetorical question. Nothing has happened. So I find that Mr. Broughton acted within his rights and that the sale is reasonable. I'll tell you another reason it's a fair price. If I denied Mr. Broughton's request, then H&G would miss the October 15 deadline, RBS would formally repossess the club, and would then have the right to sell the club to NESV and H&G's equity in the club would be wiped out anyway. But if it comes to that, then the club probably get hit with a 9 point deduction and NESV would be fools if they didn't seek a reduction in purchase price. That's why the Premier League has already signed onto the deal. So given that there's no plan B for H&G anyway, I guess I don't even understand why we're here. What's that, Mr. Rumpole?<br><br>LFC: It's called a shakedown, my Lord. A smash and grab. A petty attempt to get some greenmail from the club or NESV in order to go away quietly.<br><br>COURT: Did you discuss settlement?<br><br>LFC: My Lord, I gave H&G's lawyers the same answer Michael Corleone gave Senator Geary. <br>Our offer was nothing, not even my legal fees, which we would appreciate if H&G would pay on our behalf.<br><br>COURT: Well, H&G went from having too much leverage, to having none. Funny old world, isn't it? Mr. Rumpole, your motion to approve Mr. Broughton's actions and to obtain a declaratory judgment approving the actions of the Board is granted.<br><br>H&G: Your Honor, with all due respect, we will appeal.<br><br>COURT: You are free to do that. However, given that an appeal may frustrate the sale and<br>prejudice the club, I believe an appeal bond is in order. Mr. Rumpole, what do you suggest?<br><br>LFC: 100m cash or surety my Lord.<br><br>H&G: Your Honor, we can't raise that type of security on such short notice.<br><br>COURT: But you're going to refinance before October 15th?<br><br>MARTIN BROUGHTON: Mr. Rumpole, what did he say?<br><br>RUMPOLE: The judge just made a funny.<br><br>COURT: It's 100m cash bond or surety for the appeal. Otherwise it can't be filed. Gentlemen,good day. Oh, Mr. Rumpole, would you approach, please?<br><br>RUMPOLE: Yes, my Lord.<br><br>COURT: Do you know anywhere I can get a drink?<br><br>RUMPOLE: Pomeroy's, my Lord. Chateau Thames Embankment. I thought you'd never ask.......<br><br><br><br><br>Matt Switalski is a 16th Circuit Court Judge in Macomb County, Michigan. More importantly, he's been a Liverpool fan since he was 8 years old. It is his fervent hope that Hicks and Gillett soonwalk alone. <br><br><br><br>Matt is also a 16th Circuit Court Judge in Macomb County, Michigan and is the managing editor of <a href="http://www.worldsoccerusa.com">World Soccer USA</a>. He appeared as a guest on World Football Daily on October 11 to analyze the legal battle for Liverpool FC.
Matt Switalski of <a href="http://www.worldsoccerusa.com">World Soccer USA</a>
2010-10-09T21:00:00Z
Red (Sox) of Liverpool FC
Heath Harshman
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Red-Sox-of-Liverpool-FC/-778278738197711734.html
2010-10-06T22:00:00Z
2010-10-06T22:00:00Z
By Heath Harshman- WFD Fan Correspondent<br><br>News has been breaking almost constantly over the last 24-36 hours over the seemingly impending sale of Liverpool Football Club to a group of investors known as New England Sports Ventures (NESV). NESV own numerous sports entities such as NASCAR team Roush Fenway Racing (50% ownership), regional sports network New England Sports Network (80%), sports marketing company Fenway Sports Group (100%) and most notably Major League Baseball's Boston Red Sox (100%). In the short time since this story has emerged tons of information on NESV and principal owner John Henry's finances have shown up. Therefore, I won't spend space on this column discussing that. To get that information Wednesday's WFD show featuring the Guardian's David Conn and Misha Sher from Soccerex did a splendid job of summing up much of the facts and background on NESV.<br><br>As an American, an adamant follower of Major League Baseball and a Liverpool supporter, I feel like Mr. Henry and NESV are, right now, as perfect an option as LFC could find. His track record in various major sports is immaculate and I believe that with what his past shows that Henry and NESV are exactly what are needed in Liverpool right now.<br><br>While American sports and the Premiership are not like for like, the MLB is as close to the EPL as any American sports league. The similarities between the two, while not exact, are obvious and a good sign that NESV have an idea of what they are in for. Such similarities are the lack of a salary cap and the minor league/academy systems that both leagues have.<br><br>Under Henry's ownership the Boston RedSox have constantly been near the top of the league in spending and team salary. While splashing cash is nice, (*cough* Man City *cough*) being a top spender while still spending wisely (*cough* NOT Man City *cough*) is even nicer, and under Henry the Red Sox have done just that.<br><br>Take this season for example. The Red Sox were big spenders in the off-season, signing four of the 14 highest paid free agents. All four have performed well, and were it not for key injuries to other big players throughout the season, would have been the key reasons for a playoff appearance.<br><br>As well as spending money wisely, the Red Sox have made other key moves that, in the end, see the Red Sox getting the better end of the deal. An example of this is trading away often inured Red Sox legend Nomar Garciaparra for shortstop Orlando Cabrera and first baseman Doug Mientkiewicz (pronounced: min-kay-vich, not sure why) in the 2004 season. Cabrera and Mientkiewicz were key components to the 2004 Red Sox World Series winning team which ended an 86-year championship drought. Other key trades in which Boston got the sweet end of the lollipop under Henry's reign include obtaining pitching ace Curt Schilling (google "Bloody Sock Game") for a handful of nobodies, getting rid of Manny "I can't field, I fake injuries, I don't hustle, I took performance enhancing drugs" Ramirez for all-star outfielder Jason Bay, and releasing Cy Young award winning pitcher Pedro Martinez at exactly the right time. All of the deals I mentioned involved big names, big money and big risks and in each situation the Red Sox were in the right, under Henry and NESV's ownership.<br><br>Of late, the Red Sox have also developed a lot of good young talent under NESV's watch. Minor league baseball, while not exactly an academy system, is fairly analogous to how young players are brought into the first team of a Premier League side. Boston players like 2008 AL MVP Dustin Pedroia, starting outfielder Jacoby Ellsbury, starting pitchers Clay Buchholz and Jon Lester are all perfect examples of young players brought up through the minor leagues that have become every day starters. The number of good, young players on the Red Sox roster and in the organization proves that NESV acknowledge the importance of developing young talent and have the ability to do so.<br><br>Another key aspect of the ownership of NESV and Henry will be the stadium development. In various interviews on Wednesday Liverpool Chairman Martin Broughton stated that the ownership will get Liverpool Football Club a 60,000 seat stadium. He said it both confidently and with strength. I do not believe someone like Broughton, who has put his heart and soul into Liverpool over the last six months, would claim something like that lightly, considering the false promises of the former LFC regime.<br><br>Broughton makes this statement with confidence knowing, once again, the past record of NESV. Made up of "around 17 investors", according to Broughton in his Wednesday interview with the BBC, they have experience in both refurbishing and building new stadiums. The examples of this are the renovations of Fenway Park, where the Red Sox play. Henry and NESV have spent hundreds of millions of dollars over their reign (2001-present) renovating Fenway and have done a spectacular job. Proof of their work is the fact that during the course of this last MLB season the Red Sox reached an astounding record of 600 consecutive home sellouts, dating from 2003-now. Broughton also mentions, in the BBC interview, that a few of the other investors on the NESV board played a large part in the building of the Baltimore Orioles baseball stadium. With members of the investment group having experience in both building and renovating stadiums worth hundreds of millions of dollars Liverpool supporters should feel assured that the right decision for the club and where it plays will be made.<br><br>The brightest piece of the NESV and Liverpool puzzle is Henry's winning past. The Red Sox have won the World Series twice (2004, 2007) after not winning one since 1918 and Roush Fenway Racing drivers in NASCAR like Carl Edwards, Matt Kenseth and Greg Biffle have all enjoyed great success, all with NESV playing a large role. For a club that hasn't won the Premiership in far too long and is off to its worst start in over half a century, having some winning pedigree at the highest level is surely a step in the right direction. This ownership group has been voted as the best in MLB by the readers of the Sports Business Journal in each of the past two years, and in 2009 Sports Illustrated selected this group as the number one ownership group in MLB.<br><br>The Red Sox and Liverpool FC are, on the surface, strikingly similar in a number of ways. Each team has a long and storied history spanning over a century of past feats and failures. Most notably both teams have endured/are enduring long stretches of not winning the thing they want the most. While Liverpool's current stretch of not raising the Premier League title looks like nothing compared to the Red Sox 86-year failure streak, I'm sure both sets of fans can relate. The fans, also, are a similarity. Each team has a similarly passionate fan base that take pride in their team and hold those responsible accountable.<br><br>Both franchises also had "Istanbul" moments. Liverpool's 3-0 halftime comeback against AC Milan in the 2005 Champions League Final drawing comparisons to Boston's comeback in the 2004 American League Championship Series in which they won four consecutive games against the arch rival New York Yankees, all on the brink of elimination, to reach the World Series. Oh, and they both have red as their main color.<br><br>Could it be that simple for Henry and NESV? It is the most emotionally intense color and stimulates a faster heartbeat and breathing, according to infoplease.com. Hopefully NESV can do just what the name of both of their franchise's colors implies and stimulate the heartbeat of a club in desperate need of just that.<br><br>In addition to being a weekly blogger for WFD, I write for the Washington State University student newspaper, The Daily Evergreen, where I have a weekly sports column. I am also the Washington State University men's basketball beat writer for Jim Basnight's college hoops blog on mynorthwest.com. You can find past pieces and follow my work not only for WFD but for The Daily Evergreen and mynorthwest.com by following me on twitter @heathharshman or adding me on facebook. Any feedback is welcome at heath_harshman@yahoo.com.
Heath Harshman
2010-10-06T22:00:00Z
Harshman's MLS Recap
Heath Harshman
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Harshmans-MLS-Recap/-902972229078759389.html
2010-10-04T22:00:00Z
2010-10-04T22:00:00Z
By Heath Harshman- WFD Fan Correspondent<br><br>Five in and five out. That ratio is how the MLS playoffs look after the first matches of October took place last weekend. New York, Columbus and Dallas joined the Galaxy and Real Salt Lake as teams that have punched their ticket to November soccer. On the other end of the spectrum, Philadelphia, Chivas USA and New England joined Houston and D.C. United as those who were eliminated from playoff contention.<br><br>Now six teams will battle over the final three slots over the last few weeks of the regular season. Were the season to end today Seattle, Colorado and San Jose would all continue into the postseason while Kansas City, Toronto and Chicago would all fall short.<br><br>The "safest" team, Seattle, currently has 42 points, the most of any teams that have not clinched a playoff spot. After a shaky start to their second season the Sounders have calmed the tide and snuck into great place in the standings late in the season. They have taken points in 11 of their last 12 matches, including their Saturday afternoon matchup with Toronto FC.<br><br>After Dwayne De Rosario opened the scoring for TFC at Qwest Field, Seattle responded with two goals before halftime and another early in the second half as they strolled to a 3-2 win. Steve Zakuani, Blaise Nkufo and Sanna Nyassi scored, in that order, for SSFC. Seattle trails their point total from last season, 47, by five points with three matches left in their 2010 campaign. Next weekend they will travel to Community America Ballpark in Missouri to take on the Kansas City Wizards.<br><br>The loss is a big one for Toronto who now trail eighth place San Jose by nine points. TFC will have to win out as well as have San Jose lose out while hoping their goal differential after said results is better than the Earthquakes. The first of their next three games is at the Home Depot Center against already eliminated Chivas USA.<br><br>In the shock result of the week the now seventh place Colorado Rapids fell at home to bottom of the table D.C. United. Just one week after almost ending Real Salt Lake's home unbeaten streak the Rapids came out flat and were unable to recover, losing 1-0. It was United's first win in Colorado in over a decade as a Danny Allsop goal just before the half gave the winners all they needed. The Rapids, now on 41 points, are all but assured a postseason position should they earn points in their final three matches. While it is manageable, Colorado's next three matches are away to Dallas, away to Los Angeles and home versus Real Salt Lake.<br><br>In a late season playoff battle taking points in any game is huge and the San Jose Earthquakes did just that last weekend, earning a hard fought 0-0 draw in Columbus. The draw earned a postseason place for the Crew while it gave the Earthquakes another step in the right direction. In the final playoff spot every point is valuable and one on the road against a top four team in the league is one I'm sure San Jose head coach Frank Yallop would've taken. The Earthquakes will look to make a big move for the postseason next weekend with a road trip to last place D.C. United.<br><br>Road games against top opponents are not what teams outside of the playoff picture ask for late in the season, but that is exactly what ninth place Kansas City had last weekend. 24,799 loud and proud New York Red Bulls fans had plenty to cheer about as they won 1-0 thanks to a Dane Richards sixth minute goal. The win catapults New York to first in the East and deals KC a tough hand to end their season with. It wasn't for lack of effort from the Wizards, who attempted 26 shots in the game, 12 of which on goal. Red Bulls keeper Bouna Coundoul was named MLS Player of the Week for his effort in the match. Coundoul, who is 28-years-old and hails from Senegal, is the first goalkeeper to win the honor this season.<br><br>In the MLS primetime game of the week on ESPN the Los Angeles Galaxy made yet another nationally televised appearance against rival Chivas USA. A sweet right-footed half-volley by Edson Buddle following a perfectly lobbed pass from Michael Stephens gave L.A. a 1-0 lead after 23 minutes. Los Angeles followed that up with a made-for-movie free kick from David Beckham in the 39th. Becks curled the free kick around the outside of the wall to the far post and directly into the top corner. Former Galaxy veteran forward Alan Gordon answered back for the Goats in the second half but it wasn't enough as the league's top team retained its title with a 2-1 win. It was the Galaxy's second consecutive nationally televised match of three consecutive as they face the Philadelphia Union Thursday night on ESPN2.<br><br>Other scores around the MLS from last week include FC Dallas defeating Chicago 3-0 at Pizza Hut Park in Dallas, Real Salt Lake besting the New England Revolution by a score of 2-1 and Philadelphia drawing 1-1 with the Houston Dynamo.<br><br>Next weekend's MLS action offers another slate of great matchups, a tribute to the league's parity. Three games that are must watch for any MLS fan has to include the ESPN MLS Game of the Week at PPL Park in Philly as the Union welcomes the Galaxy. Despite the Union being eliminated from playoff contention you know as well as I do that their crowd and team will come to play against the Galaxy. Saturday features a possible MLS Cup matchup between New York and Real Salt Lake. Defending champion Salt Lake will travel to the east coast and try to slow down the charging Red Bulls. Lastly, two teams that are yet to decide their postseason fate faceoff as Seattle take on Kansas City. It is a big match for both teams that will make a big difference their November scheduling.<br><br>Another game that I will be sure to catch is Tuesday night's US Open Cup matchup between the Sounders and Columbus Crew. The Sounders are trying to be the first MLS team to ever repeat as Cup holders while the Crew are trying to win their first Open Cup since 2002. I wrote a preview of the match for Washington State University's student newspaper, The Daily Evergreen, last week. You can read that piece here http://www.dailyevergreen.com/story/32522.<br><br> <br><br>In addition to being a weekly blogger for WFD, I write for the Washington State University student newspaper, The Daily Evergreen, where I have a weekly sports column. I am also the Washington State University men's basketball beat writer for Jim Basnight's college hoops blog on mynorthwest.com. You can find past pieces and follow my work not only for WFD but for The Daily Evergreen and mynorthwest.com by following me on twitter @heathharshman or adding me on facebook. Any feedback is welcome at heath_harshman@yahoo.com.
Heath Harshman
2010-10-04T22:00:00Z
WHY THE EPL IS NOT BETTER THAN LA LIGA
Stephen Kuzner
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/WHY-THE-EPL-IS-NOT-BETTER-THAN-LA-LIGA/-146154954627290566.html
2010-09-30T23:00:00Z
2010-09-30T23:00:00Z
By Stephen Kuzner - WFD Fan Correspondent<br><br>Three of these articles will come-out this 2010-11 club season. One now, one about-half-way, and one at the end of the season. Which league is stronger, The Barclays English Premier League or La Liga BBVA? The best way I can think to compare the two leagues is to pair-up a team in each league with another team with the same table standing and guess (yes it's a guess) as to which team would win, lose, or draw if they played a (1) meaningful game (2) on a neutral site, (3) not altering their normal playing style. By meaningful game, I mean the two teams play their best 11 and best bench. #2 and #3 don't need an explanation. At the end, we'll tally up the wins, loses, and draws and see which league is stronger. Let's take a look at the "EPL Champions Liga".<br><br>#1 Chelsea vs. Valencia - After 6 games, Chelsea sits atop the EPL with 15 points out of a possible 18 with a goal-differential of +19 and only having conceded 2 goals. After 5 games Valencia has dropped less points than Chelsea, only 2, and have 13 points out of a possible 15 after 5 games. Chelsea gets a slight edge in Champions League play with Valencia falling late to Manchester United. On the surface, this seems like a easy pick with Chelsea simply destroying people left, right, and center. But, could Valencia pose some problems for Chelsea the on the counter-attack similar to what Manchester City did? At this point I have to give the edge to Chelsea. They are time-tested and a more proven product. Valencia seems to be more of a great story at this point. In a season-long competition, Valencia's depth might gain them more points than Chelsea. But, this is a single game. Give the edge to Chelsea 2-1. Chalk-up one win to the EPL.<br><br>#2 Villarreal vs. Manchester United - The bottom line here is Villarreal looks like it has a good chance to win the Europa League and via for a top 4 spot in La Liga, while Manchester United may be Chelsea's only viable contender in the EPL and has a chance to make some noise in the Champion's League, but not necessarily contend to win it. Both teams have a lot of young talent, Nilmar, Giuseppe Rossi, Mateo Musacchio, Jonny Evans, Javier Hernández, Federico Macheda, and Darron Gibson. Villarreal, however, relies more on this talent, particularly up-front and with creating opportunities. At the moment, Manchester United is better at going forward, particularly with Dimitar Berbatov's current form, and Villarreal are better at the back. This is a close one to call, however, Manchester United is doing well enough now to give them a 1-2 win.<br><br>#3 Arsenal vs. Barcelona - Well, wouldn't we all like to see this again? Beautiful football takes on gorgeous football. The drama of Cesc-gate played-out on the pitch. Maybe we'll get this in the Champion's League again. Barcelona may still be suffering from a hangover from the World Cup and only having 19 players will hurt them in the grind of the season, but not in a single game against Arsenal. Like last year against Barcelona, the same will happen here: "Arsenal did not get any trophy". Here Barcelona wins 1-3.<br><br>#4 Real Madrid vs. Manchester City - Picture the amount of money on display here. And, what would you get? .... one boring negative 0-0 draw that would make you hate life and lock yourself in a dark room for 2 weeks.<br><br>#5 Aston Villa vs. Atlético Madrid - Now this is a tasty match-up. A lot of talent here. Stewart Downing, Ashley Young, Stephen Ireland, Gabriel Agbonlahor, Diego Forlán, Simão, Sergio Agüero, Diego Godín, and Tiago. The thing is, Atlético's talent is World Class and there's more of it. They were atop the La Liga table for this reason. Atlético wins 1-2.<br><br>#6 Espanyol vs. West Bromwich Albion - Here we got two teams really punching above their weight. West Brom at #6 on the table? Its' only been 6 games, but still. Espanyol is slightly better, but this is a 1-1 draw.<br><br>#7 Fulham vs. Sevilla FC - Sevilla is sputtering and sacked their coach. On the other hand, every year there seems to be just such a charming story about the Cottagers. This year they are undefeated after 6 games with 1 wins and 5 draws. Would Sevilla and Fulham draw? I don't think so. A sputtering Sevilla has too much talent not to beat a play-it-safe Fulham. Minus a few minor slip-ups, Sevilla might be sitting near the top of the table. Sevilla wins 1-2. When Sevilla hits their stride later this year this is a big win.<br><br>#8 Hercules vs. Tottenham Hotspur - The giant-killers in Spain face a team in the Champions League slipping a little down the table early in the season. All you have to do here is look at the two rosters. The only Hercules player that has a chance to get into Spur's staring 11 is Nelson Valdez. Spurs win 1-3.<br><br>#8 Blackburn Rovers vs. Athletic Bilbao - Here are two teams that beat-up you, don't given- up much at the back, and score just enough. Bilbao just does it a lot better and has better talent in World-Cup winners Fernando Llorente and Javi Martínez. Blackburn is punching above their weight right now. The average height in this game would be off the charts for soccer. They look more like two basketball teams. Bilbao wins in an ugly 0-1.<br><br>#10 Getafe vs. Newcastle United - Getafe is right where I predicted they would finish in my La Liga preview. That's me patting myself on my back. Newcastle United are probably a little above where we would expect them. Nevertheless, I see two equally stacked sides that will probably play conservative and draw 1-1.<br><br>#11 Sunderland vs. Mallorca - Sunderland should beat Mallorca, but they won't. Mallorca, despite selling Aritz Aduriz, Borja Valero, and Mario Suárez to pay debts, continue to overachieve. As a collective Mallorca may be better. If Darren Bent doesn't score, then Sunderland are toast. However, he will score in a 1-1 draw.<br><br>#12 Málaga vs. Bolton Wanderers - If this was Bolton on a Monday night, I'd chalk a win to Bolton, but in this comparison we are using a neutral field. This is another game that I'd really like to see. Málaga leads La Liga in scoring with 11 goals from offensive firepower in Eliseu, Rondon, Apono, and Juanmi. But, they have also given up 11 goals in 5 games. Bolton have given-up 10 and scored 9. The talent between these two teams are comparable as well. This is a fun 2-2 draw.<br><br>#13 Birmingham vs. Almeria - Do any of you other than supporters of these two clubs really care who would win this one? I kind of do because I have Liam Ridgewell on my fantasy team and Almeria are like a junior-Barcelona. Birmingham has more talent looking at the rosters, but these are two teams not playing really good or bad right now. Draw 1-1.<br><br>#14 Osasuna vs. Stoke City - The Candlesticks versus The Little Red Ones These are two teams that are hard to watch that will both finish about 14th-ish in their respective tables. They do enough to overachieve, not get relegated, and draw. This has 0-0 written all over it.<br><br>#15 Blackpool vs. Racing Santander - Interesting one here. Two lowly teams not yet in the relegation zone yet. Ton's of orange and green on the field. I'd guess a high-scoring 3-3 draw.<br><br>#16 Real Sociedad vs. Liverpool - Let's get real here! If Liverpool can't beat Sociedad, they're probably on the road to relegation. There is a gulf in talent between these teams. It's a good thing this is a hypothetical. Liverpool wins 1-4.<br><br>#17 Wolverhampton Wanderers vs. Sporting Gijon - Who cares about what would happen in this game? What I want is to hear Mick McCarthy talk about Sporting Gijon. Now that would be entertainment. To hear him talk about Diego Castro, Alberto Botía, Miguel de las Cuevas, and Nacho Novo would be epic. However, the game would be epic as well. Both teams are terrible at the back and Gijon just don't stop attacking. I think this match-up would a goal-festival. But, Gijon will get more and win 3-4.<br><br>#18 Levante vs. Wigan Athletic - Ugh. Draw. 1-1.<br><br>#19 West Ham United vs. Deportivo La Coruña - What the heck are these two teams doing here? I heard that West Ham is handling-out goals at the mall and Deportivo couldn't kick the ball into a goal even if it was the size of the ocean. This could be the most inept 0-0 draw you would ever see. West Ham would just open-up the goal and Deportivo would shank it time after time in-memorial. 0-0.<br><br>#20 Real Zaragoza vs. Everton - What the "eff" is Everton doing here? I know they start slow, but this is ridiculous. If they can't be Zaragoza they should be relegated to League One. Everton win 0-2.<br><br>What is our tally? There were 10 draws. The EPL won 5. And, if you can do second grade math, that means La Liga won 5. Looks like we have a tie folks. I know what you are thinking. Come-on Steve! Make a stand! But, if you look at the mid-table teams, there really isn't much of a noticeable difference between the teams to think one would beat the other. My gut tells me this type of exercise will become more decisive as we go through the season. Don't tell me you know who would win between Birmingham and Almeria. Have you seen both play a full game at this point? I haven't seen either.<br><br> <br><br>If you have feedback (if it's good we'll read it on the air), email skuzner@gmail.com or Facebook http://www.facebook.com/home.php#!/skuzner?v=wall&ref=ts .
Stephen Kuzner
2010-09-30T23:00:00Z
Sebastian Le Toux- MLS Player Profile
Heath Harshman
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Sebastian-Le-Toux--MLS-Player-Profile/302016505981897932.html
2010-09-29T21:00:00Z
2010-09-29T21:00:00Z
By Heath Harshman- WFD Fan Correspondent<br><br>Most people would find it difficult to continue something that they had been told they were not good enough to do. Philadelphia Union forward Sebastian Le Toux is not one of those people. The Frenchman has been undervalued for most of his career and is now showing those who missed out just what they're missing out on. <br><br>The Rennes-born Le Toux began his football career playing for his hometown youth setup in France. His first professional experience began in 2004 as a member of F.C. Lorient of Ligue 2. In his two years there, from ages 20-21, the 6-foot forward managed just one goal in fifteen appearances. His professional stay in his home country was short lived and before the 2007 season Le Toux decided to move to the United States and try out for MLS side FC Dallas. <br><br>The tryout was unsuccessful for Le Toux who then turned to the Seattle Sounders, then of the USL-1, for his first shot at soccer in America. He took advantage of his first opportunity in the States and netted 10 goals for the Sounders, tying him for the league lead in the USL. He tallied 24 points in all during his inaugural campaign. By the end of his rookie season Le Toux was voted USL-1 MVP and led Seattle to a 16-6-6 to earn Commissioner's Cup for best record. The Sounders also won their second USL-1 crown in three years and advanced to the semifinals of the US Open Cup. <br><br>Le Toux then improved, once again, on his numbers and led the line for the Sounders in 2008. He made the Second team All-USL-1 by scoring 14 goals and 32 total points on the year. This improvement and his obvious ability to put the ball in the back of the net was not unnoticed by the Sounders when they made the jump to the MLS and Le Toux was the first official player signed by Seattle on May 8,2008. <br><br>He was not able to translate his impressive numbers to the MLS in 2009. In 28 appearances, 15 of which starts, he scored just one goal and provided three assists. Largely playing on the wings for WFD Guest and Seattle Head coach Sigi Schmid, Le Toux was unable to make the same impact as his previous years in the Northwest.<br><br>With the inception of the Philadelphia Union for the 2010 MLS season the Sounders could protect only 11 players from the Union's expansion draft. For the third time in his short career Le Toux was deemed surplus to requirements and left unprotected. Philadelphia took advantage and selected the now United States resident Le Toux in their draft. He hasn't looked back. <br><br>After a disappointing 2-0 road loss to his former club on his debut for the Union, Le Toux put Philadelphia on the score sheet for the first time in the MLS in their home opener on April 10, 2010. He did it in stylish fashion as well, netting a hat trick for an exciting 3-2 victory over D.C. United. <br><br>As a member of the Union, Le Toux has flourished, playing up front and scoring goals like he did in the USL-1. He has started in all 23 of his appearances this season and tallied an impressive 12 goals, good enough for a tie for fourth in the MLS. That total puts him ahead of guys like Fredy Montero, Conor Casey and Omar Cummings. In addition to scoring goals he has provided 10 assists this season, also good enough for a tie for fourth best in the league. <br><br>After leaving his home nation, being doubted, proving himself, being undervalued and then finally once again proving himself, Sebastian Le Toux has achieved quite a bit. His hard work and dedication to improvement is obvious when watching him play and even more so when looking at his statistics. <br>The amount of young European MLS players isn't staggering and likely never will be. But Le Toux has created a blueprint for others in Europe to be able to make a name for themselves in America. Like the two previous players on which I've written profiles, (see: Fredy Montero, Kei Kamara) the league is a better place with Sebastian Le Toux in it. The addition of the Henry's, Marquez's, Beckham's and others are all welcome to the young MLS, but it is the guys like Le Toux that hold the key to taking the MLS to the next level. I think I speak for many MLS fans when I say I would welcome the appearance of more "Le Toux's" appear over the coming years.<br><br>In addition to being a weekly blogger for WFD, I write for the Washington State University student newspaper, The Daily Evergreen, where I have a weekly sports column. I am also the Washington State University men's basketball beat writer for Jim Basnight's college hoops blog on mynorthwest.com. You can find past pieces and follow my work not only for WFD but for The Daily Evergreen and mynorthwest.com by following me on twitter @heathharshman or adding me on facebook. Any feedback is welcome at heath_harshman@yahoo.com.
Heath Harshman
2010-09-29T21:00:00Z
He's on the comeback trail
Frank Dell'Apa of the Boston Globe
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Hes-on-the-comeback-trail/-304000872930012313.html
2010-09-29T01:00:00Z
2010-09-29T01:00:00Z
Former BC star Davies eager to regain Cup form<br><br>By Frank Dell'Apa<br>Globe Staff / September 28, 2010<br><br>Charlie Davies has no memories of the Oct. 13 auto accident in which he sustained serious injuries and a passenger died. Davies did not fully realize the extent of the crash until a week later, but he still believed he could return in time to perform in the World Cup in South Africa, he recently told World Football Daily.<br><br>Davies also talked about his recovery from multiple surgeries and expressed a desire to perform in Major League Soccer with the Revolution after his European career ends. Davies, who played for the Greater Boston Bolts, Brooks School, and Boston College, has continued rehabilitating with FC Sochaux in France, but he has yet to make a first-team appearance this season.<br><br>Asked to recall the crash, which occurred on the George Washington Parkway in Virginia in the early-morning hours a day before a US World Cup qualifier in Washington, D.C., Davies told World Football Daily:<br><br>"I remember nothing because of head trauma. Only thing I remember - going out to eat with my roommate, Stuart Holden. I knew I wasn't playing Wednesday because of a groin injury I had from Honduras. I just made a bad decision and stayed out late and I paid for it.''<br><br>Davies's injuries included a broken elbow femur, fibula, and tibia; lacerated bladder; and facial fractures.<br><br>"My face, nose, and cheeks were shattered,'' Davies said in the interview. "They made an incision ear to ear and were able to pull down the skin and reconstruct all that for me.<br><br>"I woke up, I was in the hospital, I had no idea where I was. I thought I was in Honduras. I looked down and saw all these staples in my stomach. My first thing was, 'I'm in a hospital and they're stealing my organs.' I started to take out the staples. I got to the fifth one and decided to make a run for it. A nurse saw me and said, 'What are you doing?' I said: 'What am I doing here, where am I?'<br><br>"I remember being knocked out again for a couple more days. I have flashes of seeing my family and girlfriend, Gooch [Oguchi Onyewu], Robbie Rogers. I talked to Tim Howard and [coach] Bob Bradley on the phone. All these things happened pretty quickly. I didn't know what happened, but when a detective came in a week later and told me the car was split in half and a person died, that's when it really hit me.''<br><br>Davies, 24, said no alcohol or drugs were involved "on my end'' in the incident.<br><br>"I told them I wanted to know what the injuries were, the time frame, because I've got a World Cup to come back for,'' Davies said. "The funny thing is, I never had a meltdown. Of course, it's a huge shock. I couldn't believe someone sitting 6 inches in front of me died.<br><br>"I'm extremely lucky to be alive, I think that's the first thought that went through my head. Then, it's all right, I'm lucky be alive, I'm alive for a reason, let me get back to work and just be positive about everything and just make sure I'm in a good frame of mind and try and get back for World Cup. The only thing I'm thinking is I'm a fast healer, I'll be back for World Cup.''<br><br>Davies, who had scored four goals in 17 appearances for the United States, was working out in Delaware with national team trainer James Hashimoto, but he failed to recover in time for the World Cup. Bradley did not discipline Davies for breaking curfew, but they talked after Davies went to Los Angeles for a second surgery on his elbow, which had been broken and dislocated.<br><br>Recalled Davies: "He told me, 'We've got to have this talk sometime. You know you let people down, teammates, and you made a really bad mistake, and you really have to grow from it. Not many words - you went through the pain, you've got to learn from this, and I know you will.' It was a really good talk.<br><br>"He didn't think I was physically ready to compete at the international level, so he couldn't call me in. That's when it all hit me. I was very close to crumbling. Then, I said, OK, what do I have to work for? I took a week break in the Bahamas. I said, 'Let's get back for the Gold Cup next summer.' That's definitely a huge goal of mine.''<br><br>Davies performed once for the Sochaux reserve team and "had a very bad game,'' which has led to doubts about his prospects for returning.<br><br>"I think I'm able to compete,'' Davies said. "Strength? Yes. Speed? No. Am I on the right path? Yes.''<br><br>Davies played 90 minutes for the US in a 3-2 win over Honduras in San Pedro Sula Oct. 10, the result clinching a berth in the World Cup finals. The team tied Costa Rica, 2-2, in Washington Oct. 14.<br><br>As for Davies's future, he said, "I would love to play in the US. The Revolution would definitely work for me. The idea for me is very appealing to play in the United States. But it's really important for me to succeed in Europe before that.''<br><br>Frank Dell'Apa can be reached at f_dellapa@globe.com.
Frank Dell'Apa of the Boston Globe
2010-09-29T01:00:00Z
World Football Daily Interviews USA Forward Charlie Davies
Goal.com
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/World-Football-Daily-Interviews-USA-Forward-Charlie-Davies/217090406813099636.html
2010-09-28T23:00:00Z
2010-09-28T23:00:00Z
Goal.com<br>Sep 25, 2010 9:15:00 AM<br><br>His terrible car accident had many fearing for his life, let alone his career, but USA forward Charlie Davies surprised many with his recovery push for the World Cup. <br><br>He fell short of that goal, however, and many are still eager to see what Davies is capable of. At only 24 years old, the American striker has a lot of years ahead of him now that his playing career is getting back on track and a recall to the USMNT at some point isn't out of the question.<br><br>Goal.com partners World Football Daily were able to talk with the player in a revealing interview that had the New Hampshire-native open up about the accident and what he has gone through since it happened last October.
Goal.com
2010-09-28T23:00:00Z
La Liga Round 5: Madrid Choke, Valencia On Top, & Sack Race Won
Stephen Kuzner
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/La-Liga-Round-5:-Madrid-Choke,-Valencia-On-Top,--Sack-Race-Won/408043180383875598.html
2010-09-27T23:00:00Z
2010-09-27T23:00:00Z
By Stephen Kuzner - WFD Fan Correspondent<br><br>Barcelona may have passed Real Madrid on the table, but it was Valencia that leapfrogged Real Madrid to first place with a 0-2 win over Sporting Gijon on the road at the El Molinón. Early goals from Mehmet Topal and Roberto Soldado were enough to keep secure the victory. We don't want to get carried away with Valencia since we are only 5 games into the La Liga season, but at some point, probably sooner than later, Los Che will present real trouble for Barcelona and Real Madrid. Only 5 matches into the season, Valencia have started 19 different players and played 2 others as substitutes. If Barcelona is counting, that's 21 players. Valencia's quality of depth could win-out in a season-long battle of attrition with the Blaugranes. With Valencia's current finishing quality, Los Blancos could find themselves in a deep hole early-on if they don't improve their execution in front of the goal.<br><br>This lack of finishing quality resulted in a 0-0 draw with Levante on the road at Estadi Ciutat de València, dropping Madrid to #4. To sum-up the missed chances, Gonzalo Higuaín missed a sitter at 10', Ronaldo had a brilliant header saved at 38', Higuaín had a goal waved-off at 41' for offsides, Ronald botched a chip at 42', Mesut Özil kicked a gridiron field-goal at 43'....I'll save you misery, there were 4 more opportunities that should-of, would-of, could-of been goals. That's 9 golden opportunities. This year through 5 matches, they have scored 6 goals from 105 shots on-goal for the worst accuracy in La Liga. Then again, when you are giving-up 0.2 goals a game, a goal a game might cut-it. It feels like Madrid will have a deluge pretty soon. They are not going to sputter the whole season if they are getting 20+ shots on-target a game. Seriously, Higuaín (27), Ronaldo (26), Özil (9), Ángel Di María (5), Karim Benzema (8), Pedro León (8), and Kaka (8) (remember him) all combined for 91 goals in League play last year. Madrid will go on a tear soon enough as long as they don't listen to the media, accept me, ironically a Barca Supporter.<br><br>Villarreal advanced-up the table to #2 with a 2-3 win against Málaga at La Rosaleda. This was a great game with 5 goals in the 1st half: a brace by Spanish International Santi Cazorla, a rocket-shot by Portuguese International Eliseu, a far-post roller by Giuseppe Rossi, and a sharp header by Venezuelan International Rondón. You have to like what both of these teams are doing. Málaga seems all-or-nothing having drawn no games scoring a La Liga tops 11 goals while also letting in a La Liga high 11. Villarreal are right behind with 10 scored and 4 conceded.<br><br>Barcelona rounds out the top four at #3 with their 1-3 win at the always-tough San Mamés. Fernando Amorebieta's redcard at 34' was a bit excessive and playing a man down against Barcelona is like two grown-ups playing a game of keep=away against a kid. If you are rooting against Barcelona, these games are annoying. However, if there ever was a time for David Villa to get redcarded, a game before a home game against Mallorca would be the time. Nevertheless, I didn't like him losing his cool.<br><br>What else happened? Espanyol put Osasuna back in their place 1-0, Racing no-surprisingly fell to Getafe 0-1, Deportivo dropped to Almeria 0-2, Mallorca beat Real Sociedad 2-0, and Atlético Madrid could only muster a goal to beat Real Zaragoza 1-0. The shocker-of-the-week was Hercules 2-0 victory over Sevilla, though Hercules beating anyone at this point is probably not a surprise anymore. But, it was disappointment enough for Sevilla to sack Antonio Alvarez and hire the architect behind Mallorca's surprise 5th place finish last year, Gregorio Manzano. A win against Racing last week and Hercules this week would have put Sevilla in 1st place. A tie with Racing, a loss to Hercules, and an early exit from the Champions League wins you the sack-race.<br><br> <br><br>If you have feedback (if it's good we'll read it on the air), email skuzner@gmail.com or Facebook http://www.facebook.com/home.php#!/skuzner?v=wall&ref=ts .
Stephen Kuzner
2010-09-27T23:00:00Z
Harshman's MLS Recap
Heath Harshman
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Harshmans-MLS-Recap/458704219582679535.html
2010-09-27T22:00:00Z
2010-09-27T22:00:00Z
By Heath Harshman- WFD Fan Correspondent<br><br>Another week in the MLS and a few more teams now know their future, or lack thereof, once the playoffs roll around. The Houston Dynamo and New England Revolution joined D.C. United as those eliminated from MLS playoff contention while Real Salt Lake joined the top of the league Los Angeles Galaxy among those headed for postseason play.<br><br>Both New England and Houston played a multi-game schedule this week with matches on Wednesday and Saturday. Each team needed to win out this week to keep any realistic chance of making the playoffs, but were unable to do what was needed.<br><br>The Revs week began with a road date with impressive FC Dallas followed by a weekend home visit from Eastern Conference leaders Columbus. Both games rang a similar depressing tone as New England let 2-0 second-half leads slip away as they drew both matches 2-2. Wednesday night Jeff Cunningham was the villain as he scored a stoppage time goal for FC Dallas at Pizza Hut Park, extending their unbeaten streak to 16 games. FC Dallas head coach and WFD guest Schellas Hyndman has guided Dallas to fifth in the MLS playoff standings on 46 points.<br><br>Saturday night against the Crew offered more of the same as Guillermo Barros Schelotto slotted home an 80th minute penalty to deny the Revs the full three points. New England now has just one win in all competitions since August 14th. The Revs will welcome second in the league Real Salt Lake to Gillette Stadium in the upcoming weekend.<br><br>Fellow newly eliminated club Houston faced similar heartbreak during their two matches as well. The Dynamo held a 2-0 lead as well as a 3-1 halftime lead in their midweek match against the Kansas City Wizards only to lose 4-3. Former Dynamo striker and WFD guest Kei Kamara scored the opener for KC but it was Josh Wolff who took the headlines. His 97th minute goal capped a tremendous comeback for the ninth place Wizards who trail the Colorado Rapids by five points for the final MLS playoff spot.<br><br>Houston then had a comeback of their own Saturday in the Nation's capitol as they defeated the bottom dwelling D.C. Untied 3-1. Supremely talented 17-year-old Honduran striker Andy Najar got United on the score-sheet first with a very well taken and patient 29th minute goal. But Houston would score three in the final 25 minutes of the match to earn their seventh win of the season. The Dynamo face off against the Philadelphia Union next weekend at PPL Park.<br><br>San Jose, Seattle and Colorado, the sixth through eighth placed teams in the MLS playoff standings (in that order) all gained valuable road points to help solidify their postseason credentials.<br><br>The Earthquakes, through a Chris Wondolowski hat trick, defeated Toronto FC 3-2 at BMO Field. Wondolowski has now scored 12 goals for San Jose this season including their last four. The Earthquakes have lost just once in their last seven matches and lead Seattle for the sixth place position in the MLS playoff standings. Each team is on 39 points but San Jose has a better goal differential. The loss deals Toronto a significant blow to their playoff hopes as they trail the eighth place rapids by seven points. They have two games this week, a midweek home matchup with the fading Chicago Fire followed by a tough road test against the Crew in Columbus at the weekend.<br><br>Those Rapids were just stoppage time away from ending Real Salt Lake's 23 game home unbeaten run, but a 93rd minute header from 29-year-old defender Nat Borchers drew Salt Lake level at the death. Borchers' goal leveled the game after Rapids forward Conor Casey headed home his 11th goal of the season and fourth in five games in the 36th minute. The draw dropped Colorado to the eighth and final playoff spot as they look forward to back-to-back home matches in the upcoming week versus Philadelphia and D.C. United. <br><br>The now seventh placed Seattle Sounders continued their impressive league form last weekend stealing all three points on the road in Chicago. The suddenly on "fire" (get it?) Blaise Nkufo, with the help of a kind deflection, scored the only goal of the game in the 88th minute for the win. Seattle has earned 24 out of a possible 33 points since their 3-1 July 4th loss to the Los Angeles Galaxy. This stretch of quality play has flipped their season from a sophomore slump into what will likely be a second consecutive playoff appearance. Another win next weekend at home versus the now desperate Toronto FC would go a long way to ensuring postseason football in Seattle.<br><br>In other league play last week the Philadelphia Union defeated Chivas USA 3-0 at home for their most convincing victory in franchise history. The win is the third in the Union's last five matches, but unless they continue this play and get some help from other teams their first season will not continue into November. Chivas meanwhile will head into this week's SuperClasico matchup with the Los Angeles Galaxy as the last place team in the Western Conference.<br><br>Oh yeah, there was this one game between two teams in fairly large markets with well known players on national television Friday night. In that match the New York Red Bulls dominated the top of the table Galaxy 2-0 at the Home Depot Center in Carson, CA. The lights were bright and the stars were out and New York were the ones who took center stage. Even with football legend and international superstar Thierry Henry sidelined the Red Bulls dictated much of the game and sent many of the 27,000 fans in attendance home unhappy. Not even the return of Golden Balls David Beckham into the Galaxy starting lineup could jumpstart Los Angeles, who despite leading the league table, have looked sluggish down the stretch of the season. In their last eight matches the Galaxy are 3-4-1 and have watched their lead atop the MLS dwindle to just two points over Real Salt Lake.<br><br>Just under a month remains in the MLS season and the playoffs continue to draw nearer every day. This weekend offers more interesting matches highlighted by the SuperClasico Sunday night (5PM PT) on ESPN2. Road matches for San Jose and Kansas City will also be big matches for those teams battling for those final postseason spots.<br><br> <br><br>In addition to being a weekly blogger for WFD, I write for the Washington State University student newspaper, The Daily Evergreen, where I have a weekly sports column. I am also the Washington State University men's basketball beat writer for Jim Basnight's college hoops blog on mynorthwest.com. You can find past pieces and follow my work not only for WFD but for The Daily Evergreen and mynorthwest.com by following me on twitter @heathharshman or adding me on facebook. Any feedback is welcome at heath_harshman@yahoo.com.
Heath Harshman
2010-09-27T22:00:00Z
CONCACAF Champions League Review of MLS Clubs
Heath Harshman
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/CONCACAF-Champions-League-Review-of-MLS-Clubs/-828376321157298462.html
2010-09-23T22:00:00Z
2010-09-23T22:00:00Z
By Heath Harshman- WFD Fan Correspondent<br><br>The MLS had another full slate of CONCACAF Champions' League action this week. It was the second of three consecutive weeks of group play for the four MLS squads taking part in the event. League rivalry was also in effect as three of the four MLS teams took on Mexican counterparts.<br><br>The only MLS team not facing a Mexican opponent this week was Real Salt Lake, who battled to an entertaining 3-2 road scalp over Arabe Unido of Panama. A brace from 23-year old Canadian Will Johnson sandwiched a goal from Alvaro Saborio in the first half as the defending MLS Champs held on for a tough three points. The win puts Salt Lake at the top of Group A on nine points through four matches. They hold a two point lead over Mexico's Cruz Azul and a five point lead over fellow MLS foe Toronto FC.<br><br>Those two teams, Cruz Azul and Toronto, matched up Tuesday night in Mexico. Toronto defeated the prestigious Mexican side earlier in the group stage, 2-1 at BMO Field. This match went a bit different as interim head coach Nick Dasovic started somewhat of a second side. Considering Toronto is currently tenth in the MLS playoff standings, five points back of eighth place Seattle, with just over a month left in league play the moves make sense. Toronto defended in numbers for the majority of the match and was outshot 17-2 and was not able to manage a shot on goal. Despite that large disparity and 12 corner kicks Cruz Azul were unable to get on the board and take the full three points. The draw was just the third time in 23 matches that an MLS team has earned a point in Mexico.<br><br>The other match pitting MLS and Mexican teams against each other down south was between the bottom of the group Seattle Sounders and top of the group Monterrey. Seattle, like Toronto, are battling in league play for one of the final playoff spots and, like Toronto, started what would be considered a weakened side. Despite that fact the Sounders amazingly got off to a 2-0 halftime lead. A deflected own goal off of Monterrey midfielder Sergio Perez plus a cool finish from Sounders forward Mike Fucito seemingly put the second-year MLS squad on to victory and into the history books.<br><br>In Istanbul fashion, Monterrey mounted a three-goal comeback in just four minutes in the second half to keep the Primera Division de Mexico's undefeated home reign over their MLS counterparts alive. Chilean international Humberto Suazo led the comeback charge after he came on as a 61st minute substitute. A rebound off of a Suazo shot in the 74th that fell to Jesus de Nigris got the home team on the board and just a minute later Suazo himself got on the score-sheet with a right footed blast from the top of the box. Just minutes later Sounders goalkeeper Terry Boss then Suazo down in the box for a penalty that Luis Perez would put away for a devastating 3-2 Monterrey win. The loss puts the Sounders virtually out of the competition. They are bottom of the group with no points in four matches. In order to advance the Sounders would need to defeat the other two group opponents, Saprissa and Marathon, both of whom they play at Qwest Field in Seattle. They would also need Monterrey to defeat those same teams and hope that their goal differential over that span was better than both Saprissa and Marathon, who are both on six points through four matches. The loss pushed the MLS road record in Mexico to a woeful 0-21-3.<br><br>Coming off of a 4-0 home drubbing at the hands of those same Seattle Sounders, the Columbus Crew rebounded with an impressive 1-0 home victory over Mexican side Santos Laguna. An 87th minute strike from Andres Mendoza of the Crew gave them their third win in four matches. Columbus now leads group B on nine points, two points ahead of Santos. Both Columbus and Santos have dominated the group and should coast into the next round.<br><br>Round five of six is next week as team's battle for precious points late in the group campaign. The second intra-league matchup between Real Salt Lake and Toronto FC will get things started next Tuesday at 5pm PT in Toronto. Salt Lake dominated the first matchup at home with a convincing 4-1 win. On Wednesday night Columbus will travel to Guatemala to face Municipal (7pm PT) as they try to secure their knockout stage spot. The Crew won the first match at Crew Stadium 1-0. Lastly, Seattle will attempt to earn their first CONCACAF Champions' League point(s) on Wednesday night as well. By that time they will know whether their fate is sealed as Monterrey faces off with Saprissa in Costa Rica on Tuesday night, a game that Seattle fans will be cheering hard for the Mexican side. The Sounders will face Marathon of Honduras at 7pm PT. SFC lost the first match between the two 2-1 in Honduras.<br><br> <br><br>In addition to being a weekly blogger for WFD, I write for the Washington State University student newspaper, The Daily Evergreen, where I have a weekly sports column. I am also the Washington State University men's basketball beat writer for Jim Basnight's college hoops blog on mynorthwest.com. You can find past pieces and follow my work not only for WFD but for The Daily Evergreen and mynorthwest.com by following me on twitter @heathharshman or adding me on facebook. Any feedback is welcome at heath_harshman@yahoo.com.
Heath Harshman
2010-09-23T22:00:00Z
La Liga - Roundup Jornada 4
Stephen Kuzner
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/La-Liga---Roundup-Jornada-4/732384638189578302.html
2010-09-22T21:00:00Z
2010-09-22T21:00:00Z
By Stephen Kuzner - WFD Fan Correspondent<br><br>Four weeks into La Liga, order has been restored with Real Madrid at the top of the table. I know, I know, Sevilla have yet to play as of this writing, but it just feels inevitable to have Madrid or Barcelona at the top. It was fun while it lasted with Atlético Madrid and Valencia sharing some time at the top. Madrid has been far from dominating and closer to vulnerable in all their matches, but their bend-but-not-break defense has given up an impressive single goal in four matches. 1.5 goals a game is plenty if you are only giving up 0.25. Against Espanyol, Madrid looked beatable for large stretches. Both sides finished the match with less than 11 players with Pepe, Ernesto Galan, and Juan Forlin all being sent-off. Pepe should be a concern for Madrid because he narrowly missed being sent-off last week against Real Sociedad. At this point, the Madristas should be happy with Mourinho's results. His system is just being implemented and it starts with the back first. By November, Madrid will be demolishing teams the way Chelsea is doing in the EPL.<br><br>Barcelona, missing Lionel Messi, had a hard time breaking-down a well-organized Sporting Gijon, but was able to churn out a 1-0 victory. Barca's 78% possession served as a good defense most of the match. A season with only 19 players is going to have more of these grind-it-out possession games than the beautiful home 4-nils of the previous couple years. Javier Mascherano played in his first yellow card-less La Liga match, so maybe this is progress. The groans and moans from the Camp Nou whenever he touched the ball suggest otherwise.<br><br>Valencia and Atlético Madrid drew 1-1 dropping points to Madrid and Barcelona this week. Things could have been worse for Los Che had new-signing Aritz Aduriz not equalized in the 83rd minute. Teenage Atletico goalkeeper-sensation David de Gea had another fine match after his brilliant performance against Barcelona a week ago. He is a future keeper in an already deep Spain stable.<br><br>Osasuna not only earned their first win with a 3-1 victory over Real Sociedad, but also scored their first goals. Levante also got their first win with a 0-1 victory over Almera. It only took four weeks for Osasuna and Levante to register a win.<br><br>However, Real Zaragoza are still winless after a 0-0 draw against Hercules.<br><br>Athletic Bilbao made their own luck via a David Lopez fluke cross-turned goal and then cruised to a 3-0 win with Mallorca. Bilbao will host Barcelona next week. If each teams' form this week and history are indicators, Barcelona will probably drop some points at San Mamés.<br><br>As of this writing, Getafe vs. Málaga, Villarreal vs. Deportivo La Coruña, and Sevilla FC vs. Racing Santander have yet to play. I see a draw 2-2, Villarreal 2-1 win, and Sevilla 3-1 win. If you read this column on Thursday afternoon, Sevilla should be sitting ahead of Madrid. That is if you use goal-difference. Maybe order will not be restored at the top of the La Liga table just yet?<br><br> <br><br>Please send any feedback to skuzner@mail.com. Seriously, good or bad.
Stephen Kuzner
2010-09-22T21:00:00Z
United now able to move forward together?
Betfair's View
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/United-now-able-to-move-forward-together/-295307131561393960.html
2010-09-21T15:00:00Z
2010-09-21T15:00:00Z
Betfair Guest Blogger- <br><br>Having endured what was widely regarded as a relatively poor start to the season for a Manchester United team, the Red Devils' victory over arch-rivals Liverpool at the weekend may turn out to be the kick start that the title-chasing side needed in order to provide them with the level of self-belief necessary for overcoming the <a href="http://www.betfairfootball.com/">Betfair Football odds</a> and winning the Premier League this season.<br><br>Although they are clearly a top class side, United had already thrown away secure leads this season, attracting the unwanted wrath of their manager in the process. By showing that they themselves are capable of recovering from setbacks to steal all three points, the United players have proved to their demanding manager and their fans that they believe in their own ability.<br><br>This could not apply more to any member of the United squad than Dimitar Berbatov, a man who has failed to live up to his hefty price tag - until his fantastic performance and headline-grabbing hat-trick against Liverpool. If he has finally found his confidence, it is likely that he will also soon start to find sustained top form in a manner that Manchester United fans previously have not had the chance to enjoy.<br><br>With his previous appearances on the pitch often suggesting that he is either lazy or simply not interested in the game, he has been a target of hostility from the United fans and a subject of ridicule from away supporters at Old Trafford, especially when compared with Wayne Rooney, who is often the very epitome of an excellent work rate. However, should Berbatov finally show that he is a man who can score goals and contribute to the team effort overall, he is likely to begin to win over some of the fans who have been on his back until now.<br><br>If Berbatov can pull this off successfully, United will be a side which is able to move forward together to bigger and better things and, more than likely, serious chances at glory.<br><br>Meanwhile, the <a href="http://www.betfairfootball.com/premier-league/wigan-atheltic/">Wigan betting</a> suggests they could still be relegated later this season.<br><br>The side have struggled so far and could be in for a tough time.
Betfair's View
2010-09-21T15:00:00Z
Harshman's MLS Recap
Heath Harshman
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Harshmans-MLS-Recap/974460433499519494.html
2010-09-20T22:00:00Z
2010-09-20T22:00:00Z
By Heath Harshman- WFD Fan Correspondent<br><br>The week that was in the MLS was one of the more eventful weeks in recent memory. The MLS had its first team eliminated from playoff contention, there was just one draw in the eight matches and teams placed sixth through tenth all won, signaling their postseason intent.<br><br>D.C. United, sitting on 18 points at the bottom of the MLS table with a goal differential of minus-22, was officially eliminated Saturday after losing 2-1 on the road to the Los Angeles Galaxy. United took a 60th minute 1-0 lead through Honduran teenager Andy Najar, but were unable to secure what would've been a very surprising victory against the top of the league Galaxy. United States men's national team hero Landon Donovan scored a brace in the final ten minutes to grab all three points for Los Angeles. The win secured the Galaxy's spot atop the league as they kept pace with second place Real Salt Lake, who continued their impressive point-tallying stretch with a 1-0 home win over the Chicago Fire.<br><br>The Royals win set a MLS record for consecutive undefeated league home matches (23) with the win at the Rio Tinto Stadium. The defending MLS Cup champions are just three points behind the Galaxy for the top spot and hold the second place spot above now third place Columbus Crew by three points as well.<br><br>Sixth place Colorado comfortably beat the New England Revolution 3-0 at home on Saturday, pushing their point total to 37 this season, six points above ninth place Toronto FC. First half goals from the increasingly dynamic partnership of Conor Casey and Omar Cummings, each tallying a goal, put the Rapids in cruise control for the rest of the match. The Rapids will now travel to the Rio Tinto Stadium and try to break Real Salt Lake's newly attained home unbeaten record on Saturday night. The match will be aired live on FSC at 7pm PT. The match is the first time the rivals meet this season and will open the scoring for the Rocky Mountain Cup. Real Salt Lake has won the last three editions of the cup.<br><br>The San Jose Earthquakes, currently in seventh place, also won last week, defeating the Philadelphia Union 1-0 at the Buck Shaw Stadium in Santa Clara, California. Chris Wondolowski headed home a 69th minute cross to give the Earthquakes the victory. It was their fourth shutout of the season and puts them five points above ninth place Toronto, who they face at BMO Field next week. San Jose is attempting to reach the postseason for the first time since they were re-established in 2008.<br><br>In what was easily the most impressive victory of the week the eighth place Seattle Sounders defeated Eastern Conference leaders Columbus Crew by a score of 4-0 at Crew Stadium. The result equaled the Crew's worst loss ever. The last time the home side lost by four goals was May 19, 2007, away to New York. Their worst home loss was also 4-0, versus Kansas City on May 14, 2005.<br><br>The Sounders were led to victory by Swiss international Blaise Nkufo. Nkufo joined the Sounders after playing for Switzerland in the World Cup over the summer and was yet to open his account in five appearances. On his way to being named MLS Player of the Week Nkufo scored a hat-trick, his first goals as a Sounder and the first hat-trick in the history of the MLS Sounders.<br><br>The huge win gives Seattle some serious road momentum that they will carry into Toyota Park this weekend when they take on the fading Chicago Fire. The Fire trails the Sounders by ten points in the MLS playoff standings and has not won since August 18th.<br><br>Apart from the Rocky Mountain Cup between Colorado and Salt Lake on Saturday, one other MLS match will be televised nationally this week. In ESPN's MLS showcase on Friday night (ESPN2 at 8pm PT) the stars will be out as the Galaxy take on the New York Red Bulls at the Home Depot Center in Los Angeles.<br><br>The new-look Red Bulls with international stars such as Mexican defender Rafael Marquez and French super-striker Thierry Henry will try to move into a tie for first place in the East with the Crew and can do so with a road win. Red Bulls leading scorer Juan Pablo Angel, who has a league second highest 12 goals on the year, will also be adding to the showcase.<br><br>In opposition for the league leaders' midfielder David Beckham, who had another appearance last week for the Galaxy as he heads towards full fitness, will be available and most MLS fans will hope to see him again alongside Landon Donovan.<br><br>These five designated players plus a matchup of two of the top five teams plus national television equal what is likely the must see game of the MLS season thus far. The names are big, the lights will be bright and both teams will come out firing and trying to prove a point. Non-MLS fans that tuned into the World Cup last summer should definitely tune into this matchup to get a taste of what the MLS has to offer.<br><br> <br><br>In addition to being a weekly blogger for WFD, I write for the Washington State University student newspaper, The Daily Evergreen, where I have a weekly sports column. I am also the Washington State University men's basketball beat writer for Jim Basnight's college hoops blog on mynorthwest.com. You can find past pieces and follow my work not only for WFD but for The Daily Evergreen and mynorthwest.com by following me on twitter @heathharshman or adding me on facebook. Any feedback is welcome at heath_harshman@yahoo.com.
Heath Harshman
2010-09-20T22:00:00Z
Bellamy out to lead Cardiff to glory
Betfair's View
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Bellamy-out-to-lead-Cardiff-to-glory/-839868814901801413.html
2010-09-20T17:00:00Z
2010-09-20T17:00:00Z
Betfair Blogger, Tom Mallows- <br><br>FA Cup finalists in 2008 Cardiff will go into this year's competition with a much better squad than they had two years ago when they lost to Portsmouth in the final. Craig Bellamy's arrival at his boyhood club has given the Welsh club a new lease of life and the future is looking bright at the Cardiff City Stadium.<br><br>Those looking at <a href="http://news.ladbrokes.com/en-gb/football/fa-cup/fa-cup-betting.html">betting odds FA Cup</a> wise will note how Cardiff's record in the FA Cup is pretty decent. Although they haven't lifted the trophy since 1927, they have performed well in recent years. Since they reached the final they have gone as far as the fourth round the following year, where they forced Arsenal into a replay before losing 4-0 at The Emirates Stadium. Last season saw Cardiff reach the fifth round where they lost to eventual winners Chelsea 4-1 at Stamford Bridge.<br><br>With the new Malaysian owners bringing stability to the club, after Peter Risdale left his unforgettable stain on another football club, Cardiff look a good bet to secure promotion to the Premiership this season. The Welsh club are currently one of the front runners in the Championship and have been without the injured Bellamy for much of the new season. They have managed to keep most of their key players along with strengthening the squad with proven top flight quality. Along with Bellamy, midfielders Seyi Olofinjana, Jason Koumas, defender Chris Riggott and Wolves striker Andy Keogh have all joined Cardiff on loan deals. The new additions give the Welsh club one of the strongest squads outside the Premiership.<br><br>Although Cardiff boss Dave Jones's main aim this season will be promotion from the Championship and being able to compete in <a href="http://news.ladbrokes.com/en-gb/football/premier-league">Premiership Betting</a> next year, he will also be keen for a good cup run. The club could really use the money a good run would bring in. Although Man City are still paying most of Bellamy's wages, Cardiff are still shelling out a pretty penny for their star attraction.
Betfair's View
2010-09-20T17:00:00Z
La Liga - Roundup Jornada 3
Stephen Kuzner
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/La-Liga---Roundup-Jornada-3/-696009552640414652.html
2010-09-20T05:00:00Z
2010-09-20T05:00:00Z
By Stephen Kuzner - WFD Fan Correspondent<br><br>After 3 rounds of La Liga, we still have an "early-season" table with Valencia at the top from 3 wins thanks to matches with Málaga, Racing, and Hercules. Looking at their fixture list, this is no surprise in contrary to Barcelona and Madrid's dropping points the previous two weeks to lesser sides. Hercules played liked a side that didn't know how to follow-up their shock success against Barcelona. Valencia captain David Navarro was sent off just four minutes into the second half and Hercules failed to take full advantage of a 10 man side. It was sad to see so many empty seats at the Estadio José Rico Pérez after last week's heroic efforts at the Camp Nou. Nevertheless, Hercules has a core of new players (David Trezeguet, Royston Drenthe, Nelson Valdez, Abel Aguilar) that will continue to gel and hopefully keep them out of relegation and, who knows, maybe somewhere mid-table.<br><br>Juan Mata's goal, a volley from a cross that came across the box to the far side, was something to behold. The word sublime comes to mind, better yet, astonishing when you see it on replay. I'm calling that one a vollaso. Valencia, being the last team to win La Liga outside of Barcelona or Madrid should enjoy their time on top with a tough fixture list coming-up including Atlético Madrid, Sporting Gijon, Athletic Bilbao, and Barcelona. If they can get through that bunch and stay on top, they'll definitely be contenders.<br><br>#2 Sevilla got a much-earned victory on the road to Malaga. Malaga is a dangerous team. No one will be relishing a trip to the La Rosaleda. Malaga's 5 goals last week were no fluke considering the number of opportunities they created. Sevilla has not hit their form yet, but that have to be feeling good about where they are on the table. Not having Luis Fabiano, Frederic Kanoute, and Diego Capel in the starting line-up makes these 3 points a little sweeter as well.<br><br>Watching Jose Mourinho was as much fun as watching Real Madrid narrowly escape with a road victory at the Estadio Anoeta. In this case, being on the road probably helped Madrid psychologically from not hearing the whistles from their own supporters at home. Jose Mourinho didn't blink when Ángel Di María sent a cracker into the upper right corner of the goal for Madrid's 1st goal, but he did go ballistic throwing a water bottle when Sergio Ramos was caught out of position on a Sociedad attack. Madrid should be thankful for this win. Sociedad were able to move the ball up-field, but their 10 shots were limited to one on-goal. At some point, teams are going to start really testing Iker Casillas. This Madrid side looks to be built to survive two-leg battles in the Champions League, but may be prone to dropping points on draws in La Liga. Only time will tell.<br><br>Atletico Madrid's time at the top of the table looks to be short-lived having failed a true test losing to Barcelona at home 1-2. A win would have put Atletico six points ahead of Barcelona only 3 weeks into the season. However, it could have been much worse for Atletico if David Villa and Lionel Messi did not fail on golden opportunities in-front of the net. Messi will miss the next 3 weeks with sprained external ligament in his right ankle. He won't be available for games against Sporting Gijon, Real Mallorca and Athletic Bilbao, and Rubin Kazan. Because of the Messi injury, it would be easy to overlook Sergio Aguero being substituted and then sitting the bench with ice on his legs. He doesn't look like he will be back to 100% soon. Atletico are a different team with a healthy Aguero and Filipe Luis.<br><br>Barca's 19 is now 18. After two weeks of what seemed-like millions of crosses, Barcelona sent through-ball after through-ball down the center. After three games, we have seen 3 different Barcelona teams. Against Racing, we saw a version of the 2008-2009 team. Versus Hercules we met the crossing team. And, this week we witnessed the through-ball team. In addition to Messi's injury, Barcelona should be worried about Javier Mascherano being given a yellow card. That's 2 games and 2 yellow cards for Masch. With 18 players the next 3 weeks, he doesn't have time to adapt to the Spanish game. Oddly enough this week, two of Barcelona's center-backs on loan, Martín Cáceres and Henrique headed in goals for Sevilla and Racing Santander respectively. Their depth would be handy right now.<br><br>Sporting de Gijon always guarantee an exciting game and that's what we got against Athletic Bilbao in a 2-2 draw. Both teams felt that should have won. This game typified the diversity of play in La Liga. Sporting is committed to beautiful attacking football regardless of the situation or opponent. Athletic are committed to defending and getting the ball to La Liga's best target-man, Fernando Llorente.<br><br>Villarreal got a second win via two goals from Nilmar on the road at Levante. After promotion, Levante have played 3 games and received 3 losses. They look doomed. Espanyol rebounded from their 4-0 drubbing at the hands of Villarreal last week and won an ugly match against Almeria 1-0. Despite being winless, Almeria still sit out of the relegation zone. Michael Laudrup got his first win as Real Mallorca coach in a snoozer at the ONO Estadi over Osasuna 2-0. Osasuna sit in the relegation zone and have yet to score after 3 games. Things look bleak for them. Racing Santander got two late goals from Henrique and Ariel Nahuelpán to see-off Real Zaragoza 2-0 in a controversial game. In the 72nd minute, a strike by Zaragoza's Gabi was called-off by a phantom foul by Ander Herrera. Deportivo La Coruna and Getafe will play tonight in another game of contrasting styles. Deportivo can't put the ball anywhere near the net and Getafe's counter-attack revs at warp-speed.<br><br>Its only 3 weeks into La Liga, but there is a lot to be excited about. The top 2 on the table are not Barcelona or Madrid. The Mourinho stage-show is already in full-stride. Valencia may actually be a better team than last year despite selling David Villa and David Silva. Sevilla, Atlético Madrid, and Villarreal all look to be teams capable of Champions League slots. Hercules and Real Sociedad have genuine chances to stay up. Málaga, Mallorca, and Sporting Gijon promise to entertain. La Liga sides have a varied number of styles of play that assure intriguing match-ups every week. It's a good time for La Liga.<br><br> <br><br>Please send any feedback to skuzner@mail.com.
Stephen Kuzner
2010-09-20T05:00:00Z
Early Season = BARCALOCO
Stephen Kuzner
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Early-Season-=-BARCALOCO/-525337214228023086.html
2010-09-17T05:00:00Z
2010-09-17T05:00:00Z
By Stephen Kuzner - WFD Fan Corresponden<br><br>The past few seasons, madness seemed to loom over the Santiago Bernabéu much more so than at the Camp Nou. Madrid signed Kaka and Ronald for sums of money the size as values of entire teams. They sacked a coach last year whose team earned more points than any previous Madrid side. Madridistas do not just desire trophies, but rather lust after beautifully-won trophies. The psychological ache in the world of Real Madrid is one of impulse. Impulse buying. Impulse sacking. Impulse media. While, Barcelona's irrational flaw is one of fear. Fear of falling short. 2006-07 was the La Liga title that no one seems to want to win. Madrid and Barcelona both had 76 points, but Madrid won the title on the head-to-head with Barcelona; this despite Barcelona having a 45 goal-differential to Madrid's 26. Does Barcelona's shock loss to Hercules foreshadow a calamitous repeat their unfocused 2006-07 season?<br><br>An easy thing to do is to say no and point-out that in 2008-09, Barcelona started the campaign with a tie to Numancia and a loss at Racing Santander and then went on to win 6 trophies. You could also blame the loss on an exhausted host of players that helped Spain win the World Cup and were jet-lagged from traveling to Argentina. Maybe Pep Guardiola put out a squad with some players not quite acclimated to the Barcelona-way. You could even joke that it was a day game at the Camp Nou. All these things are probably true and had some impact on the match. However, I am not so sure. Barcelona put out a team that was far superior to Hercules and did not look to be the better team. I think this loss represents a bi-polar start to the Blaugranes' season.<br><br>Barcelona looked sharp and crisp the week before beating Racing Santander on the read, 0-3. Barcelona then slipped to Hercules 0-2. A few days later they trounce Panathinaikos 5-1 in the Champions League with a remarkable 28 shots and 820 completed passes. These are three games where they have either been brilliant or lost the plot. Next comes, a trip his weekend to the Vicente Calderón versus La Liga leaders, albeit 2 weeks into the season, Atlético Madrid. This is a place the past few years where Barcelona have come undone; last year losing 2-1 and in 2007-08 falling 4-2. This weekend will be a treat for a footballing-neutral, but a stressful spectacle to watch for a Barca supporter. Next comes more of the same with two La Liga fixtures: a seemingly easy home match-up on Wednesday against Sporting Gijon, but a difficult test on Saturday traveling to Athletic Bilbao's San Mamés fortress, yet another site famous for Barcelona ambushes. This schedule favors a manic-depressive start. Still, there is something else that will make things even more up and down these first few weeks ...<br> <br><br>Barcelona's 19.<br><br>Is it possible that Barcelona, only two games into La Liga, are already suffering from depth problems having only 19 named squad players? Shaving-down the roster headcount will help balance the books for a team in a financial jam, but it really hurts when you are a team that plays in a very specific way where players can't be brought up to speed very quickly. Adriano and Mascherano didn't look settled-in to the Barca philosophy and timing against Hercules. There's little to no practice time to get them in tune with 3 games in 8 days. Barcelona's 19 need to take a stand now or they'll lose enough points to fall too far behind in the league table to catch either one of the Madrid's. Early losses to Hercules, Atlético Madrid and Athletic Bilbao could be fatal. Is it mad to think that Barcelona could be too far behind to win La Liga after a mere five rounds?<br><br> <br><br>Please send any feedback to skuzner@mail.com.
Stephen Kuzner
2010-09-17T05:00:00Z
Why Villa have a squad with a point to prove
Betfair's View
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Why-Villa-have-a-squad-with-a-point-to-prove/939211149633597400.html
2010-09-16T17:00:00Z
2010-09-16T17:00:00Z
Betfair Guest Blogger- <br><br>The manner in which Villa came unstuck in the last minute of injury time at the Britannia Stadium this week reflected perfectly the mixed start to the season they have endured. Having been knocked out of the Europa League with a disappointing performance in front of their own fans at Villa Park, they bounced back to pull off a win against Everton despite a poor performance, and the Villa squad now know they need to impress new manager Gerard Houllier.<br><br>With Houllier set to take charge after the Villians' game against Bolton this weekend, players and fans alike know that the club are about to undergo what could be their most important change of manager since the arrival of Martin O'Neill.<br><br>More than a few players will be aware of the need to be on top form if they wish to impress the new man in charge, with Luke Young and Nigel Reo Coker notable examples, and others will realise they only really have until January to stake their claim as a permanent part of a new-look Villa squad. Many people made Aston Villa betting tips <a href="http://www.betfairfootball.com/premier-league/aston-villa/">Aston Villa beting tips</a> to claim fourth this season, but they have a lot to prove if they are going to live up to that.<br><br>However, although the Villa players know that they are under intense scrutiny during this period of transition, Houllier himself will also surely be anxious in the knowledge that he is replacing a man who brought the club their most important triumphs since the early 90s. Should the new boss fail to help Villa make that final step up to allow them to compete with the likes of Arsenal, Tottenham and Manchester City for that all important fourth spot, Houllier will know that his reign as Villa manager will be considerably shorter than the time he spent at Liverpool. The Betfair Football <a href="http://www.betfairfootball.com/">The Betfair Football</a> odds certainly suggest he is in for a tough time.<br><br>Despite this, Villa fans will know that his experience at the top level of management could help to propel the club to a height that they have not seen for quite some time, as long as owner Randy Lerner backs him financially.
Betfair's View
2010-09-16T17:00:00Z
Kei Kamara- MLS Player Profile
Heath Harshman
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Kei-Kamara--MLS-Player-Profile/-403775440857013241.html
2010-09-15T21:00:00Z
2010-09-15T21:00:00Z
By Heath Harshman- WFD Fan Correspondent<br><br>Stories of people and athletes coming from sub-standard conditions and rising to fame are plentiful. Movies and books are coming out often with heartwarming stories of perseverance and dedication that most people cannot fathom. It is often rare that a story with these factors fall through the cracks, but the story of Kansas City Wizards forward Kei Kamara seems to have done just that.<br><br>Growing up in civil war stricken Sierra Leone in Western Africa, six-year old Kei would soon come to know the sound of bullets, explosions, fear and death. Something many of those playing against Kamara in the MLS every week will likely never experience. After years of this exposure Kamara eventually grew to know the sounds and sights associated with a civil war.<br><br> "It got to a point where gunshots were like music, something you were used to," he said. "We'd hear pop! pop! pop! and say what kind of gun it was, then the next minute there'd be maybe a big explosion and like, oh, that's maybe a war tank" said Kamara in a July 2nd story on thesoccerroom.com.<br><br>It would be another eight years until the now teenage Kamara would attempt to flee the country. In a trip that took about two years and took him many places, Kamara would finally make it to the United States. After settling he landed on the Cal State-Dominguez Hills soccer team where he would finish his senior season as a third-team All-American.<br><br>The now 26 year-old is having the best season of his career and is the leading scorer for Kansas City with eight goals in 21 appearances. The former member of the Columbus Crew, San Jose Earthquakes and Houston Dynamo seems to have finally found a solid home, something relatively unknown to Kamara up until this point, in KC after being traded to the Wizards at the end of last season. He was originally drafted by the Crew as the ninth pick in the 2006 MLS Superdraft.<br><br>The athletic 6'3" Kamara showed that he was capable of putting the ball in the net with the Dynamo last season, scoring five goals in 20 starts, but seems to have found another gear in 2010. Kamara has not only achieved personal highs in goals (8) this season, with eight games still remaining, he has also recorded highs in assists (3), shots (48) and shots on goal (25). In his last four games Kamara has two goals and three assists, making him a part of five of the last eight Wizard goals. He missed the Wizards last game, a 1-1 draw away to Philadelphia, as he joined the Sierra Leone national team in preparation for the Africa Cup of Nations qualifier. In addition to Kamara's honors he has also appeared on the World Football Daily show in the past, and with a guest list like WFD's, that's no small order.<br><br>Starting at the Home Depot Center on Sunday away to Chivas USA, the Wizards play three games in six days and Kamara's play will be an important factor in whether or not Kansas City can make a legitimate race for one of the final MLS playoff spots. A few wins strung together with a little help from other teams in the playoff hunt like Seattle and Toronto could put KC in a very strong spot to hold the key to their postseason destiny. It is looking as though leaning on Kamara may not be such a bad idea for KC.<br><br><br>In addition to being a weekly blogger for WFD, I write for the Washington State University student newspaper, The Daily Evergreen, where I have a weekly sports column. I am also the Washington State University men's basketball beat writer for Jim Basnight's college hoops blog on mynorthwest.com. You can find past pieces and follow my work not only for WFD but for The Daily Evergreen and mynorthwest.com by following me on twitter @heathharshman.
Heath Harshman
2010-09-15T21:00:00Z
Harshman's MLS Recap
Heath Harshman
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Harshmans-MLS-Recap/758049216562971302.html
2010-09-14T21:00:00Z
2010-09-14T21:00:00Z
By Heath Harshman- WFD Fan Correspondent<br><br>The MLS has another full weekend of matches coming up as well as the welcomed addition of midweek CONCACAF Champions League matches. Over the course of the next seven days there will be five televised matches including MLS teams between FSC, Telefutura and GolTV (CAN). The four MLS teams participating in the CONCACAF Champions League, Seattle, Toronto, Real Salt Lake and the Columbus Crew, all get midweek television time on FSC.<br><br>Up first on Tuesday the Columbus Crew look to solidify their Champions' League group standing. They are currently second in Group B on three points in two games played, behind Santos Laguna (Mexico) who has max points in their two group matches. The Crew takes on Joe Public (5PM PDT on FSC), hailing from Trinidad & Tobago. Joe Public FC is currently bottom of the group along with Municipal of Guatemala, both with just one point earned in their two group matches. Columbus is coming off of a 3-1 road loss to the Los Angeles Galaxy Saturday night in David Beckham's season debut. The match will be in Columbus where the Crew is unbeaten since a July 14th loss to Kansas City.<br><br>Directly after the Columbus match the Sounders will try to get on the board in Champions' League Group C action. The Sounders are yet to earn a point in group play and have scored just one goal in their first two matches. Seattle will try to get back into the thick of things against Costa Rican side Deportivo Saprissa. Saprissa are three time winners of the CONCACAF Champions League, most recently in 2005. It's a long road trip for the Sounders as they travel over 3,000 miles to Costa Rica. The match is at 7PM PDT on FSC.<br><br>The final Champions' League match including MLS teams in an inter-MLS matchup between Toronto FC and Real Salt Lake. Both teams are in the tightest group, Group A, where all four teams are tied on three points. Toronto is also in ninth in the MLS playoff standings, making one wonder how focused they will be for third game in seven days on Wednesday night (7PM PDT on FSC). Salt Lake on the other hand are earning points left and right and did it again over the weekend, earning a hard fought draw away to Seattle on Thursday. They'll have six days between games and should be well rested for match, which will be held in the Rio Tinto Stadium in Utah.<br><br>In league action for the MLS, the teams holding the eighth through tenth spots, Seattle, Toronto and Kansas City (in that order), in the MLS playoff standings all have tough road matchups. The team that can earn the tough road points this late in the season will likely be the one playing into November.<br><br>Seattle has the toughest ask of the three, traveling to Columbus four days after an away trip to Costa Rican side Saprissa in the Champions' League. The Sounders drew with Real Salt Lake last Thursday in a very entertaining 0-0 matchup on ESPN2. Seattle now holds the eighth and final playoff spot with a five point cushion over Toronto and Kansas City.<br><br>Toronto, holding the ninth position, travels to Robertson Stadium to take on the always tough Houston Dynamo. Much like the other teams just outside the MLS' top eight, Toronto failed to take advantage of what would have to be considered must have points over the last couple weeks. They drew last Wednesday on the road to Chicago and followed that up with a surprising 1-0 loss at home to bottom of the table D.C. United. Although there is still time for Toronto, it would be hard to imagine them making the playoffs without a win in Houston this weekend.<br><br>Kansas City, in the lone Sunday game, will face Chivas USA in the Home Depot Center. Kansas City last played on September 4th, a 1-1 road draw to the expansion Philadelphia Union. The Wizards have made a surprising late season playoff push over the last several weeks. Since their July 14th 1-0 victory over the Columbus Crew, Kansas City has taken 15 out of a possible 24 points and have lost just once. Even more impressive is the Jimmy Conrad led Wizards defense has allowed just five goals and earned three shutouts over that same span.<br><br>With tough road trips for the playoff hopefuls as well as midweek Champions' League action for four of the teams, the MLS offers plenty of exciting action for the coming week.<br><br> <br><br>In addition to being a weekly blogger for WFD, I write for the Washington State University student newspaper, The Daily Evergreen, where I have a weekly sports column. I am also the Washington State University men's basketball beat writer for Jim Basnight's college hoops blog on mynorthwest.com. You can find past pieces and follow my work not only for WFD but for The Daily Evergreen and mynorthwest.com by following me on twitter @heathharshman.
Heath Harshman
2010-09-14T21:00:00Z
La Liga - Roundup Jornada 2
Stephen Kuzner
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/La-Liga---Roundup-Jornada-2/625917798724990402.html
2010-09-12T19:00:00Z
2010-09-12T19:00:00Z
By Stephen Kuzner - WFD Fan Corresponden<br><br>It's only been two rounds of La Liga, but it's a La Liga-neutral's dream to see Atlético Madrid atop the table and Diego Forlán leading all scorers. At least for now, the team with the best form and record is not from the big two of Barcelona and Real Madrid. Atlético's victory over Athletic Bilbao will give a team come confidence on the road that did not gain an away victory last season until December 5th. This was a hard-fought win at Bilbao's San Mamés fortress. Atlético made shrewd pick-ups with Tiago, Godín Leal, Mario Suárez, Fran Mérida, and Diego Costa that have already born fruit. This team looks to be poised and capable to make a run in La Liga.<br><br>Another team with shrewd pick-ups this past season, Valencia got a must-have 1-0 home win against ill-fated Racing. Both teams seem to be going in opposite directions with Valencia second to the top and Racing second to the bottom. Sevilla was held to a 0-0 draw with Deportivo La Coruna largely due to the performance of keeper Manu. Both Valencia and Sevilla are starting-out the season in Champions League shots that will be hard to hold-on to.<br><br>Rounding-out the top four is Real Madrid. Jose Mourinho probably could not be less accurate by describing Madrid's 1-0 victory over Osasuna as "easy". Madrid looked great going forward though they squandered a number of opportunities, but they also looked like swiss cheese at the back. The most important thing to take from this game was the emergence of Cristiano Ronaldo as a leader. Leader? He seemed more interested in getting a win than getting a goal. I've never seen that kind of body-language in him before. Mourinho's psychology seems to be have effected Ronaldo.<br><br>Villarreal destroyed pitiful Espanyol 4-0 with a brace by Giuseppe Rossi and goals by Borja Valero's and Nilmar. Getafe rebounded-back from a loss last week to an easy 4-1 win over lowly Levante on a brace by Jaime Gavilán Martínez.<br><br>The shock of the week came with a 0-2 victory for Hércules over Barcelona. Hércules played well as a unit defensively and did well counter-attacking. Paraguayan international Nelson Valdez scored a brace. Everything seemed off for Barcelona from a yellow-card to Javier Mascherano, it being a day game at the Camp Nou (I can't remember the last one), Bojan missing a early sitter, untidy passes all-over the field, Messi being effectively triple and quadruple-teamed out of the game, to even the usually stylishly-clad footballing mastermind Pep Guardiola dressing more akin to a high school science teacher wearing a short-sleeved dress shirt with a tie. Dropping 3 points at home to a promoted team is too much for a team that was possibly tired from an international break. This loss could be an early indicator that 19 players are not enough for the long haul.<br><br>The most exciting game had to be Málaga's 3-5 victory over Real Zaragoza. Málaga hammered Zaragoza for 5 goals in the 1st 35 minutes. This was a much surprising victory given Málaga lost eight players to injury. Yet another brace in La Liga this week by Juanmi of Málaga. Sporting Gijon earned their first 3 points of the season with a 2-0 win over Mallorca. Almeria will host Real Sociedad on Monday night. My prediction is a brace by anybody.<br><br>We are two rounds done in La Liga and the big two are still not in the top two. Maybe La Liga is not the SPL on steroids after all? Or maybe Madrid and Barcelona are just off to a slow start due to an international break and chemistry yet to be realized.<br><br> <br><br>Please send any feedback to skuzner@mail.com.
Stephen Kuzner
2010-09-12T19:00:00Z
Look Out Becks and LD for the Upstart from the Pacific Northwest!
Heath Harshman
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Look-Out-Becks-and-LD-for-the-Upstart-from-the-Pacific-Northwest!/168830961285294723.html
2010-09-09T21:00:00Z
2010-09-09T21:00:00Z
By Heath Harshman- WFD Fan Correspondent<br><br>In a country where stars and celebrities are lauded incessantly and are necessary for the success of a professional sports league, it is rare that someone who has the stats and skill to be a superstar falls under the radar. The average MLS fan knows about the David Beckham's, the Thierry Henry's and the Landon Donovan's. But, apart from the Pacific Northwest, Seattle Sounders FC forward Fredy Montero has not been placed in the same echelon as these bigger named stars. The 23 year old Colombian has lit up the league in his short time here but is yet to gain the status of those who have done as much (Donovan) or less (Beckham) than he. <br><br>The Sounders acquired the then 21 year old Montero on loan in January of 2009 from Deportivo Cali, Montero's club team in his home nation. Fredy joined Cali as a 13 year old and worked his way through the youth team, making his first senior appearance in 2005 at the age of 18. He showed his obvious talent throughout his time in the top Colombian league, scoring 40 goals in 74 appearances and leading the league in scoring in back to back seasons in 2006-07.<br><br>Although he was fairly unknown to the common MLS fan at the time of his arrival, it didn't take long for the 5-foot-9-inch striker to make his presence known. Montero scored his, as well as the Sounders, first career MLS goal in the twelfth minute of his and the Sounders debut on March 19th, 2009 in a 3-0 victory over the New York Red Bulls. He would go on to tally 12 goals and four assists in his rookie MLS campaign and lead the Sounders to their first ever playoff appearance and their first trophy as an MLS team in the US Open Cup. He also garnered the honor of 2009 MLS Newcomer of the Year.<br><br>After what was considered a successful season for Seattle and Montero alike, hopes and expectations were high coming into 2010. The Sounders returned the nucleus of the playoff team from the year before and were able to hold on to Montero. There was rumored interest from Europe, specifically Fulham in England, but Montero decided to stay in America with the Sounders for at least one more year. It would seem as though he made the right choice.<br><br>He has been the most consistent and productive Sounders player this season and was a large part of their second-half rebirth that has now put them firmly in the playoff picture. In his last 16 games (Going into Thursday's matchup with Real Salt Lake) in all competitions Montero has scored eight goals and tallied five assists. He is in the top five in the MLS in major offense categories such as goals (10), assists (9), shots (72), shots on goal (30), game winning goals (4) and game winnings assists (3).<br><br>The MLS needs more Fredy Montero's. It is great that players like Beckham, like Henry, like Marquez are coming to the MLS and giving it national exposure. But the way the league will evolve and go from a semi-retiree plus American collegiate league into a true North and South American developmental league is with players like Montero. Hopefully the Northwest expansion in the coming years with the teams in Portland and Vancouver can reach even deeper into the Caribbean and peripheral South American markets, like Montero's native Colombia.<br><br>The MLS is still relatively young and the development into a solid league full of players like Mr. Montero is a bit much to ask at this point. But with the expanding soccer markets, the USA soccer exposure from the 2010 World Cup, the possible 2018/22 World cup bids and more and more diverse teams in the league, hopefully the MLS can make the transformation into a solid developmental league that teams from Europe will look to for talented young prospects. Fredy Montero, and others like him, are the key to that change that I think any MLS fan would support.<br><br><br>In addition to being a weekly blogger for WFD, I write for the Washington State University student newspaper, The Daily Evergreen, where I have a weekly sports column. I am also the Washington State University men's basketball beat writer for Jim Basnight's college hoops blog on mynorthwest.com. You can find past pieces and follow my work not only for WFD but for The Daily Evergreen and mynorthwest.com by following me on twitter @heathharshman.
Heath Harshman
2010-09-09T21:00:00Z
International Break + Club Season = Footballing Momentum Killjoy
Stephen Kuzner
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/International-Break-+-Club-Season-=-Footballing-Momentum-Killjoy/-337517199853674315.html
2010-09-09T19:00:00Z
2010-09-09T19:00:00Z
By Stephen Kuzner - WFD Fan Correspondent<br><br>Believe it or not, the past number of years I've liked international breaks for no other reason than watching Team USA measure-up to the best in the world and seeing who is rising through the ranks of the US player pool. This may sound like the soccer equivalent of enjoying math homework. However, to satisfy any tabloid cravings I might have, there is the manic and depressive nature of the English national team and its supporters to relish in. So an international break for me is kind of like anoraking your calculus with Jerry Springer on in the background.<br><br>The break for the Euros these past too-many days however has been encumbering. Three weeks into the English Premiership and one week into La Liga, it's like having your sails finally catch some wind and then having it immediately subdued. I know. I know. There is MLS, but that is a byproduct of the MLS needing revenues from weekend crowds. Whether MLS should abide by the FIFA calendar or not is another matter to debate altogether. The rest of the world for the most part stops for these breaks.<br><br>International football during international breaks becomes solely about your home-country's team and not about the big picture of something else like a League Table, Cup, or Champions League. The novelistic plot-line of the club-season is interrupted by the quick short-story of international football. It can be encumbering. Further, if you were to play devils advocate, I don't think FIFA would interrupt either the Copa America, Euro's, or World Cup for the FIFA Club World Cup. If FIFA hired some physicist to craft an equation that could explain the unexplained necessity of international breaks in the midst of a club season, it may be this ....<br><br>International Break + Club Season = Footballing Momentum Killjoy<br><br>All kidding aside, however, these international breaks are necessary. Going with my nerd-theme of this column, in the enlightening Soccernomics, Simon Kuper and Stefan Szymanski point-out three factors (among others) that impact a nation's relative footballing-strength are population size, per capita GDP, and international experience. If the USA is ever going to catch the Spain's, Brazil's, Italy's, and Italy's of the world, the USA needs to keep playing games for experience alone. The US drawing with Argentina in the Meadowlands a few years ago foreshadowed the victory over Spain in the Confederations Cup. For teams playing catch-up in the experience category, these ho-hum international breaks are vital.<br><br>So at the end of the day, International breaks are like medicine or vitamins. You don't really like them, but they are necessary for your health and the health of your home footballing-nation. That being said, lets enjoy some EPL, La Liga, Bundesliga, Serie A, and MLS this weekend. Here's a quick preview of what to expect in La Liga this weekend. Valencia will cruise past Racing Santander 2-0, Barcelona tonks Hercules 4-0, Real Madrid bounces back against Osasuna 4-1, Athletic Bilbao draw with Atlético Madrid 1-1 in a boxing-match of a game, Sporting Gijon slip-by Mallorca 2-1, Real Zaragoza and Málaga draw 1-1, Getafe beat Levante 2-1, Villarreal and Espanyol draw 2-2 in probably the best game of the week, and Sevilla FC win over Deportivo La Coruña 3-1.<br><br> <br><br>Please send any feedback to skuzner@mail.com.
Stephen Kuzner
2010-09-09T19:00:00Z
Who will end Everton's scoring drought?
Chris McClintick
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Who-will-end-Evertons-scoring-drought/-313820675324092237.html
2010-09-08T08:00:00Z
2010-09-08T08:00:00Z
By Chris McClintick - WFD Assistant Producer<br><br>Jermaine Beckford will be focusing on one thing this saturday at Goodison Park, scoring against Manchester United. It's been almost nine months since the former Leeds striker threaded the ball through Wes Brown and Tomasz Kuszczak to score the goal that would eventually give Leeds a historic FA Cup victory over their bitter rivals, Manchester United. Now he has the chance prove himself again once against United. <br><br>One season later, Beckford finds himself in the royal blue shirt of Everton amongst a squad who has only managed to score one goal and earn one point in the first three matches of the Premier league. Despite scoring in preseason matches and a penalty in Everton's carling cup match against Huddersfield Town, Beckford has seemed out of place in what has so far been a toothless Everton front line. However the season is young, and all it takes is one good result to reverse the fortunes of an Everton team trying to avoid last season's dismal start. Beckford hopes to be the goal-scoring catalyst for his new club, and there is no other team he would rather do this against than Manchester United. <br><br>Beckford will certainly get his chance, but whether or not Moyes will give him the starting role is yet to be determined. His main competition, Louis Saha, came on as a second-half substitute for Beckford at Villa Park only to become one of the most dangerous players for Everton's relentless, yet fruitless offence. Saha, another striker with motivation to peg back his former club United, could be given the starting role following that encouraging performance ahead of Beckford. <br><br>Deciding the striking role is not the only decision Moyes faces leading up to this weekend's match. Seamus Coleman has been in electric form lately and could challenge the veteran right back Tony Hibbert for the starting right back position with injured Phil Neville's absence. Moyes has tried three different midfield combinations in three matches and could very well experiment with a fourth come Saturday. Arteta and Pienaar are surely in the starting line-up, but who starts alongside them could be a number of combinations. Fellaini controlled the midfield well alongside Arteta against Villa and offers an aerial threat combined with physicality that complements Arteta's passing and ball control well. However Johnny Heitinga, who started against Wolves at Goodison Park, could be used as a strong defensive marker and try to keep United's potent forwards contained. Bilyaletdinov will certainly remember his left-footed rocket in last season's Goodison fixture, and if given the chance to start, will be on the left with Pienaar on the right. It is not out of the question that Jack Rodwell could start on the right side considering he was given that role against Villa. However, Moyes may start his starlet on the bench and use him for an injection of pace and explosiveness, which ultimately decided Everton's 3-1 victory last season.<br><br>This is a crucial match for David Moyes' side. They need not only results, but confidence and finishing in the final third against an always confident and talented Manchester United side, which is by no means an easy task. Step up Jermaine Beckford.
Chris McClintick
2010-09-08T08:00:00Z
MLS Offers Great Matchups for Season Ending Stretch
Heath Harshman
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/MLS-Offers-Great-Matchups-for-Season-Ending-Stretch/-773205529721546659.html
2010-09-07T16:00:00Z
2010-09-07T16:00:00Z
By Heath Harshman- WFD Fan Correspondent<br><br>Despite the international break that has halted most other professional football leagues in the world; the MLS has kept pace and provided a superb schedule in the upcoming week. There are just nine points separating sixth and eleventh place in the MLS playoff standings and about two months remaining in the regular season. Every game from here on out could be the one that either puts a team in position for a playoff push or will place them squarely between a rock and Rafa Benitez's skull (AKA a hard place). That being said, three games in particular stand out this week that MLS fans should catch as a good precursor to the upcoming postseason.<br><br>Up first for prime viewing will be a Thursday night matchup between the Seattle Sounders and Real Salt Lake at 8PM PST on ESPN2. The game will be held at raucous Qwest Field in Seattle, WA as the Sounders look to solidify their spot in the playoff standings. The sophomore Sounders are currently in the eighth and final playoff spot with a five point lead over Kansas City. A big win over Real Salt Lake on Thursday would go a long way to securing their second football postseason year in a row.<br><br>The two teams met once earlier this season at the Rio Tinto Stadium in Utah, drawing at 2-2 on April 10th. Costa Rican substitute Alvaro Saborio scored in injury time to deny Seattle a big road win early in the year. Almost since that point Salt Lake have gone an incredible run. The Jason Kreis led Royals have earned a point in all but one match since they lost to Columbus in late April. This terrific stretch has put them just a point behind first place Los Angeles Galaxy for the top playoff spot from the Western Conference.<br><br>Saturday the Chicago Fire and expansion Philadelphia Union meet for what is sure to be a battle at PPL Park in Philly. The game will be on FSC at 3PM PST. The Fire are within shouting distance of the playoffs with 25 points in 20 games thus far, giving them three games in hand on eighth place Seattle. Chicago has been frighteningly inconsistent of late and will need to straighten up in order to make a late season playoff push. The Fire have taken just five out of a possible fifteen points in their last five games and getting three on the road in Philadelphia will not be an easy task.<br><br>Philadelphia is well out of the playoff race with 21 points, only ahead of last place DC United, who sit at the bottom of the league table with 15 points. But, the Union has not failed to impress in their premier season in the MLS, losing just twice at home in ten games. Overall at home Philly are 3-2-5 with wins over Toronto, Seattle and DC United. Not overly impressive, but it shows that it is difficult to defeat the Union on their own soil. Working in the Fire's favor is the fact that the Union is yet to keep a clean sheet this season and have allowed 13 goals total in those ten home games.<br><br>The final game on the Saturday docket is a possible MLS Cup matchup between the Columbus Crew and Los Angeles Galaxy. They each sit atop their respective conferences with 44 points apiece. Each team also holds a 13-5-5 record on the year. The game will be at the Home Depot Center at 7:30PM PST. At home this season the Galaxy have dominated, going 6-2-2, but have struggled recently. Los Angeles has lost their last two home matches and has not won in the friendly confines since a 3-1 victory over the Seattle Sounders on the Fourth of July. The Galaxy have watched their large Western Conference first place lead dwindle to just a point over the last two months and the Crew are not exactly the type of team you want to face when you are struggling.<br><br>The Crew are 4-3-4 on the road this season and are seven points ahead of the New York Red Bulls for first place in the East. Led by MLS superstar Guillermo Barros Schelotto, who has tallied seven goals and seven assists this season, the Crew are well on their way to their third consecutive MLS Playoffs appearance. The Crew also booked a spot in the MLS Open Cup final against the Sounders on October 5th in Seattle after defeating D.C. United last week in the semis. The Crew will have to balance a full MLS schedule, the Open Cup final as well as CONCACAF Champions league play for the final two months of the season.<br><br>With less than two months left in the season, the final stretch of play is crucial and will give telling glimpses of what to expect come the MLS postseason. This week in particular will show just what these teams have to offer.<br><br> <br><br> In addition to being a weekly blogger for WFD, I write for the Washington State University student newspaper, The Daily Evergreen, where I have a weekly sports column. I am also the Washington State University men's basketball beat writer for Jim Basnight's college hoops blog on mynorthwest.com. You can find past pieces and follow my work not only for WFD but for The Daily Evergreen and mynorthwest.com by following me on twitter @heathharshman.
Heath Harshman
2010-09-07T16:00:00Z
Barcelona's 19
Stephen Kuzner
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Barcelonas-19/-777708387300213723.html
2010-09-06T16:00:00Z
2010-09-06T16:00:00Z
By Stephen Kuzner - WFD Fan Correspondent<br><br>Here is FC Barcelona's Roster: Victor Valdes, Daniel Alves, Gerard Piqué, Carles Puyol, Xavi, David Villa, Andrés Iniesta, Bojan Krkic, Lionel Messi, Jeffren Suárez, José Manuel Pinto, Javier Mascherano, Seydou Keita, Sergio Busquets, Pedro Rodríguez, Gabriel Milito, Maxwell, Adriano, Éric Abidal. Not a long list at all. If you counted, that's just 19 players. Talk about cutting the fat to save some cash. With Champions League, the Copa del Ray, and La Liga, how are they going to manage with just 19 players? Outnumbered, will they take a stand like 300 Spartans at the Battle of Thermopylae?<br><br>What's more is that of these 19, 10 of them came through Barcelona's vaunted youth system. If anyone gets knackered-up between now and the winter transfer-window, help will have to come from the youth system. For a team playing in a lot of competitions, a lot of youngsters are going to get their chance to show their mettle. My guess is the following Barca B players are going to get some appearances in the not so distant future: Víctor Vázquez (Midfielder), Jonathan dos Santos (Midfielder),<br><br>Marc Muniesa (Defender), Jonathan Soriano (Stirker), Andreu Fontàs (Defender), Armando Lozano (Defender). Someone always seems to step-up from Barca B every year, from Pedro last year, Busquets in the 6 trophy-winning side, and Bojan before that scoring 10 goals in his first La Liga season.<br><br>What is for sure is that I don't think we are gong to see many players upset with playing time. Pep Guardiola can't fall-out with anyone. When you look at the roster you see 19 players that would start on almost any La Liga side. You can already see that Pep will get all the mileage he can out of players Barcelona has signed. Maxwell, Keita, Abidal and Dani Alves have all played the maximum number of minutes in Barcelona's games thus far this season. Expect the same for Javier Mascherano and Adriano once they get settled and Gabriel Milito as well. David Villa will share time with Bojan to a certain degree as a central striker as well as on the left wing.<br><br>Injuries and squad-rotations will also be helped by players that can fill-in at multiple positions. Most of this roster consists of players that can excel in many different roles on the pitch. Nevertheless, a squad of 19 is pressing the limits of flexible players. Right now with Puyol out the next few weeks, Piqué and Gabriel Milito are backed-up with Éric Abidal and Sergio Busquets. Marc Muniesa, Andreu Fontàs, and Armando better be ready.<br><br>The thing not easily apparent to supporters about a squad of 19, remains you'd need 22 players for 11-a-side during practice. Granted, this is great for Barca B players to get exposure quickly to the senior-side in practice, but from a pundit's point of view, I don't understand how much this affects training? Maybe it doesn't at all or just a little. I'm sure they be able to spin it as a good thing.<br><br>If Barcelona take home any significant silverware this year, it will be doing it the old-fashioned way by using homegrown players, rotating players in the line-up, relying of flexible players with multiple skill-sets, and getting the maximum out of every signing. Expect to see this affect trickle through all of football, particularly the English Premier League due to its new squad rules this year. This may be the beginning of sane frugal football.<br><br> <br><br>Please send any feedback to skuzner@mail.com.
Stephen Kuzner
2010-09-06T16:00:00Z
Can A Footballer Be Paid Too Much?
Stephen Kuzner
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Can-A-Footballer-Be-Paid-Too-Much/-568693065730377003.html
2010-09-05T16:00:00Z
2010-09-05T16:00:00Z
By Stephen Kuzner - WFD Fan Correspondent<br><br>There is no La Liga this week so I figured I tackle a topic that seemed to come-up a bit regarding English national team players: are footballers paid too much? The easy thing to do is rant and rave about the millions that superstars make, how spoiled their riches make them, and lessen their desire for national team glory. But before we try to answer this question, we should first determine whether a footballer can be paid too much?<br><br>Companies hire employees. For the most part, employees are paid relative to the value that they provide. If you are hourly, the hours you work are the hours you are paid. If you do incentive-based work, you have a base salary and commissions/bonuses on top it. Or you may simply be salaried. Footballers don't really fit any of these three categories.<br><br>Clubs sign footballers. Companies sign CEO's and high-ranking executives. Footballers and CEOs for large clubs and companies make millions. Footballers have buyout clauses if they are to be transferred. CEOs have parachute payments if they are fired. These compensation-packages are huge because footballers and CEO are supposed to have the biggest impact on the bottom-line both in terms of revenues and results on the pitch.<br><br>Compensation-packages for employees, CEOs, and footballers are dictated to a certain degree by market-forces. If you can afford it, you will employ the best. For most companies and clubs that means either breaking-even, turning a profit, or going into debt to acquire funds to hire top talent. The problem comes when an organization hires someone via debt. This seems to be the prevailing model in football. Clubs pay more than what they earn for players and foot the bill on credit. Does this mean footballers are paid too much if clubs are going into debt or administration/bankruptcy to sign them? No. Footballers aren't paid too much.<br><br>The world of football is for the most-part a highly unregulated market. Adam Smith would be proud. If clubs want to run themselves into the ground, that's their prerogative until the FA, UEFA, FIFA, or some other governing body decide to regulate the transfer market and make them somewhat sane. The problem is not the footballers or the clubs, but rather football's guardian regulatory bodies that have sat-by and done little for decades.<br><br>Why would Cristiano Ronaldo turn-down 94m from Real Madrid? Why would Kaka turn-down 70M? Do they provide enough value to Real Madrid on the pitch or in terms of revenues to justify their absorbent transfer sums? Probably not. Madrid did not win any Silverware last year. In terms of revenues, I don't know the numbers, but I have a hard time believing Madrid is going to make 164m in new kit sales or additional TV revenue. It would very interesting to see Madrid do an audit by a 3rd party like Barcelona did with Deloitte. But that's another story. Regardless of where the money comes from, Madrid should be smart enough not to offer it, but Ronaldo and Kaka would also be crazy not to accept it.<br><br>The complexity of this question comes from moralizing it. Moralizing who merits millions in recompense is a fruitless endeavor. Movie-stars, footballers, and rock-stars will always make more than nurses, teachers, and police-officers. This is unfair, but market-forces are unfair and amoral in nature and unfortunately dictate what people are paid. Morality does not enter the equation except through market regulation.<br><br>So if you follow England and don't think the players are giving what they should because they have grown soft from their exclusive lifestyles, don't point your finger at them. The better place to point it is at the FA, UEFA, and FIFA who let transfer markets spiral out of control the last few decades.<br><br> <br><br>Please send any feedback to skuzner@mail.com.
Stephen Kuzner
2010-09-05T16:00:00Z
La Liga - Roundup Jornada 1
Stephen Kuzner
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/La-Liga---Roundup-Jornada-1/-657074059687829332.html
2010-08-31T16:00:00Z
2010-08-31T16:00:00Z
By Stephen Kuzner - WFD Fan Correspondent<br><br>Stop! Hold the presses! Madrid drew with Mallorca. Barcelona has won La Liga BBVA! If it was only that simple. At the end of Jornada 1 of La Liga, Atlético Madrid sits atop the La Liga table. Los Colchoneros (The Mattress-makers) can sleep well tonight after trouncing Sporting Gijón 4-0. Diego Forlan has not lost his form since the World Cup. Lionel Messi and Ronaldo have a definite third challenger to the Pichichi. Atlético showed well this opening week. It would be great if they could push for the title, but alas we are in but August.<br><br>Another step down the table at #2, we see Sevilla. They took-out on Levante 4-1 what Barcelona took-out on them during the Supecopa and what Braga did sending Sevilla to the Europa League. Not until slot #3 do we see Barcelona and Real Madrid at #12. Print-out this table, frame it, and hang it on a wall. It will not last. Aah, beauty of early tables. But, what did we learn this week about La Liga?<br><br>Supporters of Atlético have a lot to be optimistic about. They can build-on the momentum of the Europa League and the European Super Cup wins as well as Forlan's form. That just sounds nice, Forlan's form. Kun Agüero and Forlan's chemistry will only grow with another year together. New signings Godín, Filipe Luis, Mario Suárez, Fran Mérida, and Diego Costa will blend-in as the year progresses. The best thing is Forlan staying-put at Atlético. He seems to have found a home there. He doesn't want to go to England and doesn't figure into a Real Madrid or Barcelona squad. Atlético fits Forlan and Forlan fits Atlético.<br><br>David Villa looked natural with Barcelona. A few things to notice from their win included: Messi playing-up the middle, a midfield of Seydou Keita, Sergio Busquets, and Xavi that contained as much steal as creativity, and probably most important for Barcelona, Victor Valdez's fine form. Periodic holes at the back should be a concern. So, Mascherano is in and Zlatan is out. Both seemed moves inevitable if you think about it. As much as Zlatan believed in his Barcelona destiny, his immense skills-set did not complement the Barca style. He'll dominate again in Italy. Mascherano will do well with Barcelona. The big fear is that he is a red-card waiting to happen, but the reality of it is that he has the distribution skills that Barcelona requires. Also, the style of play in the La Liga is more technical than the speedy and physical Barclays Premier League. This will suit him as well.<br><br>Don't read much in Real Madrid's tie with Mallorca. Two years ago Barcelona started-off with a tie at Numancia and a loss at Racing Santander and then won the league and 6 trophies. Mourniho's Madrid will go on a run soon enough that worry everyone. Valencia looked like they won't have too much trouble making-up for the goals lost to David Villa and David Silva's departures. Aritz Aduriz's header was superb and Joaquín had a brace. Athletic Bilbao got a 1-nil victory over Hercules. Expect more of these from Bilbao. Hercules signing David Trezeguet is intriguing and Trezeguet finds ending his playing days in Spain to be 'adventurous". Add Trezequet to Nelson Haedo Valdez and Hercules looks like a team that may stay up this year. A much anticipated Villarreal failed to deliver against Real Sociedad, another promoted team that looks to avoid the drop. The only other game of note was Osvaldo's brace for Espanyol. Everyone else went nil-nil. La Liga's first week had it all. Blow-outs, grid-outs, and some surprises. Let's hope some unpredictability creeps into the season as well.<br><br> <br><br>Please send any feedback to skuzner@mail.com.
Stephen Kuzner
2010-08-31T16:00:00Z
LA Galaxy 0-2 Kansas City Wizards: Lackluster Galaxy Pay Price for Poor Performance
James Cranford
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/LA-Galaxy-0-2-Kansas-City-Wizards:-Lackluster-Galaxy-Pay-Price-for-Poor-Performance/698711864753089745.html
2010-08-28T17:00:00Z
2010-08-28T17:00:00Z
James Cranford- Assistant Producer of World Football Daily<br><br><br>A Davy Arnaud first half strike and a Jimmy Conrad theatrical goal in the second half, propelled the visiting Kansas City Wizards 2-0 over hosts and league leaders LA Galaxy. <br><br>The LA Galaxy played one of their worst games of the season while, according to Head Coach Peter Vermes, Kansas City played a full 90 minute game - most likely their best performance of the season - to capture the three points on hand.<br><br>Kansas City stuck with their usual 4-5-1 system with Kei Kamara and Ryan Smith (look for him on the show in the near future) flanking the lone striker, Birahim Diop, and Davy Arnaud playing directly behind him. The Galaxy were without Juninho tonight due to personal reasons, so Chris Klein slotted into the midfield next to Michael Stephens, Chris Birchall, and Landon Donovan, while Mike Magee was given the start partnering with Edson Buddle.<br><br>After a real drab first ten minutes, things livened up when Kei Kamara received a long ball, which he received nicely, down the right side and centered a low ball to Arnaud who made one move on Leonardo, found space, and scored the opener. The Galaxy defense was really cut open on that one.<br><br>The Galaxy were able to exert some pressure as the half wore on winning six corners, but failing to threaten Jimmy Nielson's goal at all. <br><br>A lot of credit must go to Kansas City who were able to stifle the midfield four of the Galaxy and the back line made the leagues leading scorer, Edson Buddle, look redundant the entire half (although he did win a free kick with nice hold up play in the 27th minute that Donovan took poorly) failing to have a shot on target. Buddle ended up with one shot on goal in the game.<br><br>Kansas City would have rued the missed chance in the 36th minute on another night when Davy Arnaud blocked a Leonardo pass and found Birahin Diop in loads of space but the striker failed to get a shot away as Donovan Ricketts was able to stop the attacker, coming off his line. <br><br>The Galaxy seemed to have a golden chance to score right before the half when Chris Klein found Mike Magee at the far post wide open, but the striker's volley lacked any sort of quality and failed to hit the net.<br><br>Neither team made any half time substitutions.<br><br>Edson Buddle was able to get his first shot of the match in the 47th minute but his effort from 30 yards was tame.<br><br>Kansas City, working the ball well in the midfield, had a dangerous Michael Harrington cross into the box with three Wizards forwards in there, but all failed to get a head to the ball.<br><br>The Galaxy finally made some good link up play. Working on the right hand side, Klein passed to Donovan who neatly one timed the pass to Chris Birchall who raced in to the box with space to shoot but Jimmy Nielson was up to the task. <br><br>Birchall had another golden opportunity to score, Stephens played a ball in the middle to Dovovan who deftly touched the ball out of the air into space on the volley to send Birchall through on goal but Jimmy Nielson made his best save of the night. The Galaxy had on or two good moments the entire match, but they looked lackluster, especially in the midfield, or as Bruce Arena said, "We were outcompeted tonight."<br><br>Kei Kamara received a pass in the 61st minute at the top of the area and was tackled by Gonzales, but the tackle caused the ball to end up straight in to the path of Diop who again put a tame effort on goal. Diop could have scored two on another night.<br><br>Bruce Arena clearly needed to make a change as his club was being well outplayed all night, Tristen Bowen came on for Chris Klein to add some pace to the midfield. Bowen made an immediate impact using his pace down the right and won a corner for LA, but it was his only key involvement all game.<br><br>Chris Birchall picked up a yellow in the 66th and will miss the Galaxy's next match due to an accumulation of yellow's.<br><br>The 70th saw Kansas City pick up the vital second goal. A Free kick for that Arnaud whipped into the mixer and Jimmy Conrad theatrically stuck, while being tightly marked by Buddle, his leg out and the ball somehow found its way off the post and into the net. <br><br>The Brazilian Cazumba came on for Mike Magee which pushed Donovan up to play forward alongside Buddle.<br><br>Kei Kamara was one of the best players on the field on the night and was subbed off with little time to go and got his just applause from his teammates for his hard work and overall brilliant play; many times coming back to defend and holding the ball up front to keep possession and break up the Galaxy's momentum.<br><br>The Galaxy finally sprung to life in stoppage time as Jovan Kirovski shot high and not so handsome over the bar: too little, too late.
James Cranford
2010-08-28T17:00:00Z
Madrid look to rid Diarra and Diarra
Betfair's View
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Madrid-look-to-rid-Diarra-and-Diarra/-277152948562932591.html
2010-08-26T17:00:00Z
2010-08-26T17:00:00Z
Betfair Guest Blogger- <br><br>Real Madrid are looking to sell Mahamadou Diarra, with reported interest coming from teams in England and Turkey for the midfielder.<br><br>The Mali international will be one of a number of midfielders who Madrid will be looking to get off their books due to the arrival of German pair Mesut Ozil and Sami Khedira in the summer.<br><br>Diarra has been at Real since 2006 when he signed from Lyon. The 29 year old is about to enter the final year of his contract with Madrid and will be allowed to leave for around the £6million mark.<br><br>Blackburn Rovers are reported to be leading the race to bring Diarra to England. Turkish giants Fenerbahce and Galatasaray are also monitoring the situation closely and may decide to swoop for the tough tackling midfielder.<br><br>Another Diarra who could be on his way out of the Santiago Bernabeu is Frenchman Lassana. The former Arsenal and Chelsea midfielder is reportedly closing in on a move to his third London club, Tottenham Hotspur.<br><br>Spurs manager Harry Redknapp signed the 25 year old when he was in charge of Portsmouth and is keen to team up with Diarra at his latest club. Diarra started 19 games in La Liga last season as Madrid finished second behind Barcelona in the league. Real will be hoping to beat their old rivals to the title this season but the <a href="http://news.ladbrokes.com/en-gb/football/european-football/la-liga-betting-odds.html">Spanish La Liga betting odds</a> suggest it will be a close run thing.<br><br>In his time in Madrid, Diarra has become a regular fixture in the French national team. He was unlucky to suffer a mysterious abdominal injury before this summer's World Cup, forcing him to withdraw from his country's disastrous campaign in South Africa.<br><br>Madrid president Fiorentino Perez is looking to sell the player rather than let him leave in a loan deal after investing heavily in new midfield talent this summer.<br><br>Meanwhile, Ozil's former club, Werder Bremen, got off to a disastrous start to the new Bundesliga season with a 4-1 reverse against TSG Hoffenheim. They are now less fancied in the <a href="http://news.ladbrokes.com/en-gb/football/european-football/bundesliga-betting-odds.html">German Bundesliga betting odds</a> as they sit rock bottom of the table after one game.
Betfair's View
2010-08-26T17:00:00Z
10 Burning La Liga Questions
Stephen Kuzner
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/10-Burning-La-Liga-Questions/-481438813068288491.html
2010-08-25T16:00:00Z
2010-08-25T16:00:00Z
By Stephen Kuzner - WFD Fan Correspondent<br><br>1. Why did Barcelona not sign Cesc Fàbregas?<br><br>The answer is simple. Barcelona didn't offer enough money. Barcelona thought 35m was a fair and equitable price for a player they believed unequivocally wanted to leave. Under the new Sandro Rosell regime of fiscal discipline, Barcelona was not willing to go much above this price. On the contrary, Arsenal thought Cesc was worth much more than 35m and believed they convinced their potentially unsettled star captain that his best option for now was to stay at Arsenal.<br><br> <br><br>2. Is La Liga BBVA better than the Barclays Premier League?<br><br>No. They are probably equal and this is a question that has enough material for a dissertation. But, to keep it short and sweet here we go. Barcelona had 7 starters on the Spain's World Cup winning side. Madrid just bought what seems like the entire world. There's a gulf at the top with Madrid and Barcelona and whoever will win the Premiership, either Chelsea or ManU. Are Arsenal, Manchester City, Tottenham, Everton, and Liverpool truly any better than Atlético Madrid, Sevilla, Valencia, Villarreal, and Athletic Bilbao? Probably not. Things are equal in this group. Blackpool, West Brom, and Newcastle compared to Real Sociedad, Levante, and Hércules. Newcastle is probably a step above, but the rest are likely relegation fodder. What about the rest of Brady Mid-table Bunch? Your Bolton's, Blackburn's, Birmingham's, Espanyol's, Getafe's, Deportivo's and so forth? I don't see much difference here. In the end, the seasons, Europa League and Champions League will tell. But, for now they look the same from here.<br><br> <br><br>3. What is La Liga's Best XI?<br><br>This is kind-of hard to pick. I know this one works against the rest of the world.<br><br>Iker Casillas (Real Madrid), Joan Capdevila (Villarreal), Gerard Piqué (FC Barcelona), Carlos Puyol (FC Barcelona), Sergio Ramos (Real Madrid), Busquets (FC Barcelona), Xabi Alonso (Real Madrid), Andrés Iniesta (FC Barcelona), Xavi (FC Barcelona), Pedro (FC Barcelona), David Villa (FC Barcelona)<br><br>We could make it a little better by doing this.<br><br>Iker Casillas (Real Madrid), Filipe Luis (Atlético Madrid), Gerard Piqué (FC Barcelona), Carlos Puyol (FC Barcelona), Dani Alves (FC Barcelona), Andrés Iniesta (FC Barcelona), Kaka (Real Madrid), Xavi (FC Barcelona), Cristiano Ronaldo (Real Madrid), Lionel Messi (FC Barcelona), Diego Forlan (Atlético Madrid)<br><br>Maybe La Liga BBVA is better than the Barclays Premier League?<br><br> <br><br>4. Who will win the Pichichi?<br><br>Cristiano Ronaldo. Ronaldo will return to the form he had 2 years ago when he won the Golden Boot while at Manchester United. Mourinho's arm on his shoulder and comforting words in his ear will restore Ronaldo to his breath-taking scoring pace. You can also throw-in Sami Khedira, Pedro León, Angel Di María, and Mesut Özil in addition to Xabi Alonso and Kaka to feed Ronaldo the ball on counter-attacks. Yikes!<br><br> <br><br>5. Who will be La Liga's revelation for 2010-11?<br><br>Jonathan dos Santos (FC Barcelona). Someone from Barcelona steps-up every year. Last year it was Pedro. Before that it was Busquets. Before that it was Bojan. Others to watch for include: Jon Aurtenexe Borde (Althetic Bilbao), Fran Merida (Atlético Madrid), Sergio Canales (Real Madrid), Ivan Obradović (Real Zaragoza), Alberto Botía (Sporting Gijon), and Mateo Pablo Mussachio (Villarreal).<br><br> <br><br>6. Who will be sacked first?<br><br>Míchel from Getafe may have more work cut-out for him than any other manager because he has to replace that attacking-force of Soldado and Pedro León while playing in the Europa League. Expectations will be high from a Top 6 finish last year, but goals may be hard to come-by. Míchel will need to find a way to replace the 24 goals that Soldado and Pedro León combined for last year.<br><br> <br><br>7. Will Real Sociedad, Levante, or Hércules escape the drop?<br><br>Real Sociedad stays-up. They are the exact same team that won promotion from last year with the exception of Joseba Llorente Etxarri. He is a proven scorer that should help an already cohesive team hopefully stay in La Liga. Hércules is a maybe. They seem to be doing all they can to improve the squad. A number of signing should help, especially Paraguayan World Cup star, Nelson Haedo Valdez. Manager Esteban Vigo lead Xerez to promotion and then did it again last year with Hércules. The karma will help. Levante's experience in La Liga as a yo-yo club will repeat itself with a relegation.<br><br> <br><br>8. What is Real Madrid's Best XI?<br><br>I put some names in a hat and this is what I drew-out of it.<br><br>Iker Casillas (G), Arbeloa (LB), Ricardo Carvalho (CD-L), Raúl Albiol (CD-R), Sergio Ramos (RB), Xabi Alonso (LM), Mesut Özil (CM), Sami Khedira (RM), Ángel Di María (LW), Gonzalo Higuaín (CF), Cristiano Ronaldo (RW)<br><br> <br><br>9. Will Jose Mourinho survive the hot-seat that is Real Madrid?<br><br>You don't sack The Special One. The Special One sacks you. Right? Wrong. That's Chuck Norris. Chelsea did it. Madrid is likely to do it too if he doesn't produce either a double consisting of La Liga and Champions League or La Liga and a better showing in the Champions League than Barcelona. Whether you consider managing Real Madrid a burning hot-seat, poisoned chalice, or most difficult coaching job in all of sports, the average tenure of a Madrid Manager these days is about 9 months. But, this is The Special One.<br><br> <br><br>10. Will anyone win La Liga BBVA other than FC Barcelona and Real Madrid?<br><br>No. Barcelona and Madrid will both get 100+ points in a quest for perfection. It's so close to tell, you would have a better chance flipping a coin than analyzing the two teams to determine which one will win La Liga. Today I flipped a tails so Madrid will win.<br><br> <br><br>Please send any feedback to skuzner@gmail.com.
Stephen Kuzner
2010-08-25T16:00:00Z
THE TFC EXPERIENCE
Robin Kilgore
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/THE-TFC-EXPERIENCE/395464315612187379.html
2010-08-24T17:00:00Z
2010-08-24T17:00:00Z
Robin Kilgore<br>World Football Daily Correspondent<br><br>We've all heard what it's like to attend a Toronto FC home match. Since that first game in 2007, we were awed by how amazing this city has stood behind the football team. Every game was sold out. The noise bellowing from the supporters was so loud and constant, you wondered if they ever took a moment to relax and catch a breath. <br><br>Was this kind of support already happening for a new team? Around the rest of MLS, we were all a little bit jealous. Honestly though, we were also very excited. It was the kind of experience you wanted to be a part of. On a cool Tuesday night in August, I had the opportunity to attend a Toronto FC game and absorb the experience for myself.<br> <br>The moment you walk into BMO Field, a smile radiates on your face. You can't help but love new stadiums, let alone new football specific stadiums. The color of the stands is a crisp blood red. The white maple leaf and BMO logo fragmented into the stands is a nice touch we haven't seen often in North America. <br> <br>The panoramic view of Toronto is spectacular. On your left is a sprawling metropolis of tall glass buildings highlighted by the CN Tower (the spaceneedle-esque structure that points upwards from the heart of downtown). On your right you have a beautiful mixture of green and blue that is Lake Ontario and Toronto Island Park. <br> <br>You revel in all this amazing scenery before a single fan has walked into the stadium. And when they do, they pack into that stadium like bees in a hive. In the south side tier are the Red Patch Boys, Tribal Rhythm Nation and U-Sector, 3 of the 4 official fan supporters groups. An hour before kickoff and the supporters begin marking their territory with all kinds of banners and flags that broadcast their support and fanaticism. The drummers are banging away as soon as they hit their seats. On the opposite side of the field sits the North End Elite, the 4th group that continues the loud boisterous noise to fend off any kind of calmness a visiting team may have when taking the field.<br> <br>On this particular weekday evening, Toronto is playing its first Champions League game of the group stage. Though not a sellout, the attendance is still over 16,000. That number is high compared with many other MLS teams during a regular league match on the weekend. <br> <br>Once the whistle blows, the atmosphere is even more electric. Every play and action is commented on by the masses. A foul on Dwayne De Rosorio and the fans voice their anger at the player. A foul by someone in red, and they antagonize the referee. That's football fans for you - always looking out for their own interests. <br> <br>After three minutes, Toronto scores and the crowd goes ballistic. It's an amazing start to the game. Air cannons fire red and white paper, streamers are flung from fans in the back of the stand and the entire area is shaking. It's a chorus that's repeated when the team scores a second goal near the end of the first half. A massive red tide moves and bounces in sheer ecstasy. It's clear the team is being lifted by this impressive choir.<br> <br>A brief halftime break and we start the second half. The home fans have had their cool down period and are ready for round two. The visiting team starts off playing better than before and good chances are squandered. The TFC fans aren't angels; they ridicule and heckle as loudly as the best of . The game gets heated between the two teams and eventually, yellow cards are being handed out by the referee. The fans react the way football fans the world over usually react at times like this: with heated debate and a few unkind words.<br> <br>Near games end, the away team scores a goal and for once you can hear the visiting fans celebrate. So for just a moment, the stadium is a little quieter.<br> <br>When the final whistle blows, more confetti is blasted upwards and the crowd is elated. A 2-1 Toronto victory. These players are heroes for the night. It was a well played contest and there's talk of it being the best game in the teams short history. The players applaud the fans throughout all corners of the pitch. As you walk out of the stadium, fans are still rejoicing. Yes, tonight was a victorious night.<br> <br>The TFC Experience is something special. A strong team, devoted followers, and a bit of passion make this place a remarkable home for football.
Robin Kilgore
2010-08-24T17:00:00Z
Stephen's 2010/2011 Spanish La Liga Guide
Stephen Kuzner
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Stephens-2010/2011-Spanish-La-Liga-Guide/32002826390705396.html
2010-08-23T16:00:00Z
2010-08-23T16:00:00Z
By Stephen Kuzner - WFD Fan Correspondent<br><br>2010-2011 La Liga Guide<br><br>If you don't follow La Liga, this is the year to do it and this is the guide to chart your course in Spanish football. Real Madrid and FC Barcelona may have the best teams they have ever assembled. That is saying a lot for two of the world's largest teams and most successful teams. Madrid being the 20th century's best according to FIFA and Barcelona arguably the team of the last decade. For Madrid and Barcelona, this will be a pursuit for perfection. Last year, Barcelona had the most points every in La Liga history with 99 points. Ironically, Madrid had the second most ever with 96. A perfect season would be 114 points. This year we will see two teams surpass the 100 point mark in this pursuit of perfection.<br><br>La Liga BBVA may be the world's best league. It's debatable if La Liga is better than the Barclay's English Premier League, but at the top of the footballing world, La Liga is #2 at worst. Atlético Madrid, Sevilla, Valencia, Villarreal, and Athletic Bilbao are teams that would finish at the top or win most of the leagues around the world. Spain just won a World Cup with players primarily from La Liga. La Liga also has a diversity of playing styles from it's teams making match-ups particularly interesting. It terms of footballing skills and technique, La Liga is often sited as the best.<br><br>This guide is designed as something easily consumed before a match you may watch. Look-up the two teams playing and you have your match preview. It's something you can go back-to time after time throughout the La Liga Season. The information listed comes from dozens of sources. I've done the work for you. Now, all you need to do is enjoy. This guide will be particularly useful if you don't speak Spanish since the best sources of La Liga information are in Spanish.<br><br>So what will happen? Here's a preview of the upcoming La Liga season.<br><br> <br><br>----------------------------------------------------<br><br> <br><br>ALMERIA<br><br>Founded: 1989<br><br>Nicknames: Rojiblancos (like some others)<br><br>Ground: Estadio del Mediterráneo<br><br>Capacity: 22,000<br><br>Last Year: 13th (42 Pts)<br><br>Manager: Juan Manuel Lillo<br><br> <br><br>Players In: Marcelo Silva Fernández (Danubio), D. Valeri (Porto), M. Luque (Barcelona), Ulloa (Castellón), Okoro (Heartland F.C ), Jakobsen (Aalborg), Carlos García (Betis)<br><br> <br><br>Players Out: Chico (Genoa), Cisma (Racing), Gilherme Valladolid), David Rodríguez (Celta), Soriano (Osasuna), Álex Quillo (Recre), Borzani, Solari (Apoel Nicosia), Natalio<br><br> <br><br>Best 11: Diego Alves (G), Michael Jakobsen (LB), Carlos García (CD-L), Marcelo Silva Fernández (CD-R), Míchel (RB), Crusat (LM), Fabián Andrés Vargas (CM-L), Hernán Bernardello (CM-R), Diego Valeri (RM), Pablo Daniel Piatti (F), Kalu Uche (F)<br><br> <br><br>Formation: 4-4-2 (Possession Game)<br><br> <br><br>Summary: AD Almeria played in Spain's 1st Division in 1979-81, left in 1982, and was reborn in 1989. In their somewhat short history, this year will be their fourth (consecutively) season in La Liga. Manager Juan Manuel Lillo took the reins at Almeria in late December 2009, replacing Hugo Sanchez. At the time, Almeria were one step from the relegation zone. Lilllo righted the ship and took Almeria up to 13th in the table. As a team, they retain the ball very well. This should not be a surprise because Lillo often is credited with giving Barcelona coach Pep Guardiola much of his tactical education while Lillo coached Mexican side Dorados de Sinaloa. Piatti, Uche, and Crusat all blossomed under Lillo. Crusat brings pace to the attack while Piatti and Uche (if he stays) both bring creativity. Carlos García coming back from Loan to Real Betis should help a porous defense that gave up 55 goals last year and help relieve Chico's departure to Genoa in Serie A. Chico made a number of La Liga's Best XI lists last year. Michael Jakobsen's arrival will also help the backline. Another year under Lillo should see Almeria progress a little up the table.<br><br> <br><br>Player to Watch: Pablo Daniel Piatti<br><br>Captain: José Ortiz<br><br>Prediction: 12th<br><br> <br><br>----------------------------------------------------<br><br> <br><br>ATHLETIC BILBAO<br><br>Founded: 1898<br><br>Nicknames: Los Leones (The Lions)<br><br>Ground: San Mamés<br><br>Capacity: 39,750<br><br>Last Year: 8th (54Pts)<br><br>Manager: Joaquín Caparrós<br><br> <br><br>Players In: M. San José Domínguez (Liverpool), Igor Martínez (Alavés), Ibai Gómez (Sestao River), Murillo, Balenziaga,<br><br> <br><br>Players Out: Etxeberría (Retired), Armando, Yeste (Al Wasl), Muñoz (Cartagena), Zubiaurre (Albacete), Etxeita, Díaz De Cerio (Córdoba)<br><br> <br><br>Best 11: Iraizoz (G), Andoni Iraola (LB), Jon Aurtenexe Borde (CD-L), Mikel San José Domínguez (CD-R), Amorebieta (RB), Javi Martínez (CM-L), Iturraspe (CM-R), Vélez (LM), Gaizka Toquero (CM), Carlos Gurpegi (RM), Fernando Llorente Torres (F).<br><br> <br><br>Formation: 4-5-1 (Counter-Attacking)<br><br> <br><br>Summary: Bilbao is one of 3 clubs that have never been relegated from La Liga. FC Barcelona and Real Madrid being the other 2. They are known for their cantera policy of developing Basque youth players and signing professional players native to the greater Basque Country. With a winning record and 8th place finish last year, it's amazing to think they conceded 3 more goals than they scored last year. This is a big, strong, physical team that will knock you down and hit you on the counterattack. They can also play through the middle with Markel Susaeta. Javi Martínez and Llorente are world class players, both having won the World Cup with Spain. Javi Martínez is multi-faceted holding midfielder. Llorente is a 6-5 target man that can lead a line, hold-up the ball, and put it in the back of the net as well. His 14 goals in La Liga last year was 9th best. Gaizka Toquero is a hard-working player that netted 8 times last year. The young Aurtenexe may get a chance to step up to the A side this year in the cantera tradition. A chance at the Champions League is not out of question.<br><br> <br><br>Player to Watch: Javi Martínez<br><br>Captain: TBD<br><br>Potential Revelation: Jon Aurtenexe Borde<br><br>Prediction: 7th<br><br> <br><br>----------------------------------------------------<br><br> <br><br>ATLÉTICO MADRID<br><br>Founded: 1903<br><br>Nicknames: Los Colchoneros (The Mattress-makers), Los Rojiblancos (The Red and Whites)<br><br>Ground: Vicente Calderón<br><br>Capacity: 54,851<br><br>Last Year: 9th (47Pts)<br><br>Manager: Quique Sánchez Flores<br><br> <br><br>Players In: Tiago Mendes (Juventus), D. Godín Leal (Villarreal), Filipe Luis (Deportivo), Mario Suárez (Mallorca), Fran Mérida (Arsenal), Diego Costa<br><br> <br><br>Players Out: Cabrera (Recreativo), Roberto (Benfica), Pacheco (Independiente), Pablo (West Bromwich), Pernía<br><br> <br><br>Best 11: De Gea (G), Filipe Luis (LB), Diego Godín Leal (CD-L), Álvaro Domínguez (CD-R), Tomas Ujfalusi (RB), Simão (LM), Tiago Mendes (CM-L), Paulo Assunçao (CM-R), José Antonio Reyes (RM), Kun Agüero (F), Diego Forlán (F)<br><br> <br><br>Formation: 4-4-2<br><br> <br><br>Summary: Atlético has won both La Liga and the Copa del Rey each 9 times. They gained the nickname Los Colchoneros (The Mattress Makers) because their red and white uniforms resembled old mattresses. They are also known as Los Indios (The Indians) because they stadium is "camped" on a river bank and because Los Indios are the traditional enemy of what Atlético's rival Real Madrid call themselves, Los Blancos (the whites). Last year was mixed-bag for a team that had high expectations, finishing only 9th with 47Pts, having lost the Copa Del Rey final to Sevilla, and having won UEFA Europa League final over Fulham. This year should have high expectations as well. Only 3 teams gave-up more goals than Atlético. Signing Godín from Villarreal and Filipe Luis (hopefully healthy) from Deportivo could turn one of La Liga's worst defenses into one of the best. Resigning Tiago will provide help and depth in the midfield. Diego Forlán was perhaps the best player at the World Cup and La Liga's leading scorer two seasons ago. Kun Agüero also is a world class striker. This is a team with talent all over the field that would worry anyone in La Liga and Europe for that matter, if they had qualified for UEFA Champions League or Europa League. Third place in the table is reasonable and realistic with a few breaks.<br><br> <br><br>Player to Watch: Diego Forlán (F)<br><br>Captain: Antonio López<br><br>Potential Revelation: Fran Merida<br><br>Prediction: 3rd (Champions League Qualification)<br><br> <br><br>----------------------------------------------------<br><br> <br><br>BARCELONA<br><br>Founded: 1899<br><br>Nicknames: Culers, Culés (Arse People), Blaugranes (The Blue & Garnets)<br><br>Ground: Camp Nou<br><br>Capacity: 98,772<br><br>Last Year: 1st (99Pts)<br><br>Manager: Pep Guardiola<br><br> <br><br>Players In: Adriano (Sevilla), David Villa (Valencia), Aliaksandr Hleb (VfB Stuttgart), Martin Cáceres (Juventus)<br><br> <br><br>Players Out: Rafa Márquez (NY Red Bulls), Henrique (Racing), T. Henry (NY Red Bulls), Yaya Touré (Manchester City), Chigrinski (Shakhtar Donetsk), Keirrison (Santos), M. Luque (Almeria), Á. Sánchez Benítez (Zaragoza), Botía (Sporting de Gijon)<br><br> <br><br>Best 11: Valdés (G), Maxwell (LB), Gerard Piqué (CD-L), Puyol (CD-R), Daniel Alves (RB), Andrés Iniesta (LM), Busquets (CM), Xavi (RM), David Villa (LW), Zlatan Ibrahimovic (CF), Lionel Messi (RW)<br><br> <br><br>Formation: 4-3-3<br><br> <br><br>Summary: FC Barcelona are known as "Més que un club" (more than a club) for their support of freedom and human rights around the world. In contrast, their supporters are known as Culers/Culés, meaning "Arse People". However, this is a term of endearment being that the name came from the truly dedicated supporters of FC Barcelona that sat at the top row of the old Camp de la Indústria with their butts visible to those walking-by outside the stadium. In Spanish football, Barcelona has won the most total trophies including 20 La Liga titles, a record 25 Spanish Cups, 8 Spanish Super Cups and 2 League Cups. Last year Barcelona finished top of the table in La Liga with the highest point total in La Liga history, 99 points. However, the season fell short of expectations not having won any other trophies and being ambushed by José Mourinho's Intermilan in the UEFA Champions League. Barcelona will play an attacking possession game on offense and a pressing game on defense. On paper they are arguably the world's best team having 7 of Spain's World Cup winning starting 11, Lionel Mess (perhaps the best player in the world), and Dani Alves (one the 2-3 best right-backs in the world). A season ago Barcelona won 6 trophies. Expectations are that high again this year. Only this time, José Mourinho is at Real Madrid and has signed all the necessary ingredients to make this the best title race La Liga will ever see. It will be The Race to Perfection. Barcelona and Madrid will each need to be nearly perfect this year to win La Liga. Because of this arms race, Barcelona orchestrated a very public courting of Cesc Farbregas that ultimately failed, at least for this year, and left a foul taste in many a mouth around London. Road dates at Atlético Madrid, Athletic Bilbao, and Espanyol are probably the most vital fixtures outside of el Clásico with Real Madrid, the grandest of all rivalries in sport.<br><br> <br><br>Player to Watch: Lionel Messi<br><br>Captain: Carles Puyol<br><br>Potential Revelation: Jonathan dos Santos<br><br>Prediction: 2nd (Champions League Qualification)<br><br> <br><br>----------------------------------------------------<br><br> <br><br>DEPORTIVO LA CORUÑA<br><br>Founded: 1906<br><br>Nicknames: Los Turcos (the Turks), Blanquiazules (blue-whites), SuperDepor<br><br>Ground: Riazor<br><br>Capacity: 34,600<br><br>Last Year: 10th (47Pts)<br><br>Manager: Miguel Ángel Lotina<br><br> <br><br>Players In: Felipe Ramos (Real Madrid), Rubén Pérez (Atlético), Stopira (Santa Clara), Saúl (Elche), Urreta (Benfica), Desmarets (Vitoria de Guimaraes), Míchel (Valencia), Aythami (Xerez), Rubén Castro (Rayo),<br><br> <br><br>Players Out: Filipe Luis (Atlético), Iván Pérez (Ponferradina), Sergio (Levante), Bryan Angulo, Mista (Toronto FC), Bodipo (Vaslui), Álex Bergantiños (Granada), Rubén Castro (Betis)<br><br> <br><br>Best 11: Aranzubia (G), Stopira (LB), Alberto Lopo (CD-L), Diego Daniel Colotto (CD-R), Manuel Pablo (RB), Yves Desmarets (LM), Juan Rodríguez (CM), Saúl (RM), José Andrés Guardado (AM-L), Riki (AM-R), Lassad Niouoi (CF)<br><br> <br><br>Formation: 4-3-2-1 / 4-2-3-1<br><br> <br><br>Summary: Deportivo, a La Liga regular, has been in the Spanish top flight all but 2 seasons since the Spanish Football League Systems was formed in 1928. They have won the Spanish First Division League Title once in 1999-2000. Last year they finished mid-table at #10 with 47 points. This place hides the fact they had a -14 goal differential last year scoring only 35 goals and conceding a respectable 49. To build on last year, more goals will have to come from somewhere. Losing fullback Filipe Luis to Atlético Madrid does not help. While healthy last year, Luis has perhaps La Liga's best left back. His transfer was used to make unfulfilled payments to former players Sergio Gonzalez and Sebastian Taborda and avoid a forced relegation. At their best, Deportivo is a well organized tight defensive unit. They turn things into a scrap and grind out results. Going forward they do have Guardado, a classy winger from Mexico and another quality winger in Riki. Another mid-table finish is expected.<br><br> <br><br>Player to Watch: José Andrés Guardado<br><br>Captain: Manuel Pablo<br><br>Prediction: 8th<br><br> <br><br>----------------------------------------------------<br><br> <br><br>ESPANYOL<br><br>Founded: 1900<br><br>Nicknames: Periquitos (Parakeets), Blanquiblaus (White and Blues)<br><br>Ground: Estadi Cornellà-El Prat<br><br>Capacity: 40,500<br><br>Last Year: 11th (44 Pts)<br><br>Manager: Mauricio Pochettino<br><br> <br><br>Players In: Sergio García (Betis), Mattioni (Mallorca), Dátolo (Nápoles), Osvaldo (Bolonia), Galán (Girona)<br><br> <br><br>Players Out: Román Martínez (Tigre), Pareja (Spartak de Moscú), Lola (Partizan), Ben Sahar (Hapoel) , Marqués (Parma), Tamudo (Real Sociedad), Javi Ruiz, Pillud, Roncaglia , Beranger (Tenerife)<br><br> <br><br>Best 11: Kameni (G), Chica (LB), Juan Daniel Forlín (CD-L), Victor Ruiz (CD-R), Mattioni (RB), Javi Márquez (LM), Moisés (CM), Verdú (RM), Pablo Zabaleta (AM-L), Luis García (AM-R), Pablo Daniel Osvaldo (CF)<br><br> <br><br>Formation: 4-3-2-1<br><br> <br><br>Summary: Espanyol, Spain's sixth most winning team and the "other team" in Barcelona, is now a year removed from club captain Daniel Jarque's sudden heart attack and death. Time can heal, but Jarque will never be forgotten. Last season started with the long-awaited unveiling of the 40,500 seat Estadi Cornellà-El Prat. Manager Mauricio Pochettino, who spent his playing days at Espanyol, has a deep love for the club. When Pochettino took over Espanyol in 2008/2009, they sat in the relegations zone with 10 weeks to go. He hiked 12 km to the holy shrine Montserrat and prayed for help. Divine intervention came with 8 victories down the stretch and a 10th place finish. Pochettino's pressuring tactics have been lauded for styming Barcelona last season and were then replicated by Jose Mourniho against Barcelona in the Champions League. These tactics will be needed to help a team that scored a dismal La Liga low 29 goals. Worse, losing Pareja, Ben Sahar, Marqués, and Tamudo will hurt across the board. Some help may come in the form of winger Jesus Datolo on loan from Napoli, striker Sergio García from Betis, and Osvaldo on loan from Bolonia. Another mid-table finish is likely.<br><br> <br><br>Player to Watch: Pablo Daniel Osvaldo<br><br>Captain: Iván de la Peña<br><br>Prediction: 9th<br><br> <br><br>----------------------------------------------------<br><br> <br><br>GETAFE<br><br>Founded: 1946, Re-founded in 1983<br><br>Nicknames: Azulones (The Dark Blues), El Geta (Short for Getafe)<br><br>Ground: Coliseum Alfonso Pérez<br><br>Capacity: 17,700<br><br>Last Year: 6th (58 Pts)<br><br>Manager: Míchel<br><br> <br><br>Players In: Adrián Colunga (Recreativo), Mosquera (Real Madrid), Arizmendi (Real Zaragoza), Borja (Valladolid), Ivan Marcano Sierra (Villarreal), Ibrahim Kas (Besiktas), Signorino (Cartagena)<br><br> <br><br>Players Out: Belenguer (Betis), Celestini, Cortés (Hércules), Adrián, Roberto Soldado (Valencia), Guerrón (Atlético Paranaense), Pedro León (Real Madrid)<br><br> <br><br>Best 11: Oscar Alfredo Ustari (G), Mané (LB), Cata Díaz (CD-L), Rafa Lopez (CD-R), Miguel Torres Gómez (LB), Jaime Martinez Gavilan (LM), Javier Casquero (CM-L), Derek Boateng (CM-R), Daniel Parejo (RM), Manu Del Moral (F), Adrián Colunga (F)<br><br> <br><br>Formation: 4-4-2 / 4-2-3-1<br><br> <br><br>Summary: Getafe was founded in 1946, re-founded in 1983, and was 1st promoted to the Spanish 1st Division in 2004-05. Getafe is a city in the greater Madrid metropolitan area. They are a small club that has punched above their weight the past few years and earned themselves a space in the Europa League with a 6th place finish last year. In the recent past, Getafe had a sponsorship deal with Burger King where if someone scored they could turn their jersey inside-out over their head and the king's face would cover theirs. All kidding aside, tactically, Getafe are no joke. They will park the bus defensively and absorb what's thrown at them and then offensively play a possession style game. Roberto Soldado and Pedro León did much for Getafe attacking, combining for 24 goals. However, both of them have moved-on. There absence will hurt a team that scored 58 goals and conceded 48. The addition of Perez Adrian Colunga will help lessen the blow. Colunga and Manu Del Moral will have their hands full. Again, Getafe will not be a fun team to play, but the loses of Roberto Soldado and Pedro León will likely pull them down a handful of slots on the table.<br><br> <br><br>Player to Watch: Adrián Colunga<br><br>Captain: TBD<br><br>Prediction: 10th<br><br> <br><br>----------------------------------------------------<br><br> <br><br>HERCULES<br><br>Founded: 1922<br><br>Nicknames: Herculanos, Blanquiazules (Whites).<br><br>Ground: Estadio José Rico Pérez<br><br>Capacity: 30,000<br><br>Last Year: Promoted<br><br>Manager: Esteban Vigo<br><br> <br><br>Players In: Nelson Haedo Valdez (Borussia Dortmund), Cristian Pulhac (Dinamo de Bucarest), David Cortés (Getafe), Abel Aguilar (Udinese), Fritzler (Lanus), Thomert (Le Mans), Mohamed Sarr (Standard Liege)<br><br> <br><br>Players Out: Dani Bautista, Rodri, Andrija Delibasic, Sergio Díaz (Nástic), Ionel Danciulescu, Jorge Alonso (Valladolid)<br><br> <br><br>Best 11: Calatayud (G), Paco Peña (LB), Rodri (CD-L), Abraham Paz (CD-R), David Cortés (RB), Cristian Hidalgo González (LM), Farinós (CM-L), Tiago Gomes (CM-R), Rufete (RM), Jorge López Marco (Tote) (F), Nelson Haedo Valdez (F)<br><br> <br><br>Formation: 4-4-2<br><br> <br><br>Summary: In their 88 years as a club, Hércules spent 20 of their seasons in La Liga and rank 24th on all-time La Liga Table. Last year, Hércules was promoted back into La Liga after 13 years. The promotion came in dramatic fashion on the last round of the Segunda season. A comeback in their penultimate game put them into the race again going into the final round. Real Betis' last day 4-0 win over Levante and better goal difference over Hercules was cancelled out because Hércules led in the head to head. Hércules were promoted. Hércules nearly scored double the amount of goals of their opponents last year in the Segunda; 61 scored to 34 conceded. This positive attack should be no surprise because Manager Esteban Vigo spent 10 of his playing years at FC Barcelona during the 1977-87 seasons. Two years ago he lead Xerez to promotion and then did it again last year with Hércules. Recently, the Spanish Football Federation dropped their investigations into match fixing against Hercules. A number of signing should help, particularly Paraguayan World Cup star, Nelson Haedo Valdez, but relegation is still likely.<br><br> <br><br>Player to Watch: Nelson Haedo Valdez.<br><br>Captain: Jorge López Marco (Tote)<br><br>Prediction: 19th (Relegation)<br><br> <br><br>----------------------------------------------------<br><br> <br><br>LEVANTE<br><br>Founded: 1909<br><br>Nicknames: Granotes<br><br>Ground: Estadi Ciutat de València<br><br>Capacity: 25,534<br><br>Last Year: Promoted<br><br>Manager: Luis García Plaza<br><br> <br><br>Players In: Valdo (Espanyol), Munúa (Málaga), Christian Stuani (Reggina), Xavi Torres (Málaga), Miquel Pallardó (Getafe), Sergio (Deportivo)).<br><br> <br><br>Players Out: Dani Carril (Las Palmas), Javi Guerra (Mallorca), Pau Cendrós (Mallorca), Manu, Serra, Ángel, Jorge Pina (Albacete), Samuel, Del Moral, Ángel Sánchez (Alcorcón), Juan Luis Mora (retired)<br><br> <br><br>Best 11: Manolo Reina (G), Nano (LB), Ballesteros (CD-L), Miquel Robusté (CD-R), David Cerrajería (RB), Juan Luis Gómez López (Juanlu) (LM), Pallardó (CM), Vicente Iborra (RM), Xisco Muñoz (LW),Rubén Suárez Estrada (F), Christian Stuani (F)<br><br> <br><br>Formation: 4-3-3<br><br> <br><br>Summary: Levante's experience with La Liga has been that of a yo-yo club. They ranked 41st all-time on the La Liga table, has spent 6 seasons in the Primera División, and won a Copa del Rey in 1937. Johan Cruyff did a brief 10 match stink at Levante in the 1980's. Most recently in 2008 when club players went on strike in the prospect of not being paid 18 million in unpaid wages. The situation was remedied with a friendly best-of-the-best La Liga selection with all the earnings going to Levante players. Despite that, they gained promotion last year. Surviving a year in La Liga is not likely. The sales to Mallorca of Javi Guerra (12 goals last year) and Pau Cendrós will hurt.<br><br> <br><br>Player to Watch: Rubén Suárez Estrada<br><br>Captain: TBD<br><br>Prediction: 20th (Relegation)<br><br> <br><br>----------------------------------------------------<br><br> <br><br>MALLORCA<br><br>Founded: 1916<br><br>Nicknames: Los Bermellones (The Vermilions - The orange red color of their shirts)<br><br>Ground: ONO Estadi<br><br>Capacity: 23,142<br><br>Last Year: 5th (62Pts)<br><br>Manager: Michael Laudrup<br><br> <br><br>Players In: De Guzmán (Feyenoord)<br><br> <br><br>Players Out: Aritz Aduriz (Valencia), Mattioni (Espanyol), Mario Suárez (Atlético Madrid), Óscar Trejo (Rayo Vallecano), Borja Valero (West Bromich), Gregorio Manzano (Entrenador)<br><br> <br><br>Best 11: Dudu Aouate (G), Ayoze Díaz Díaz (LB), Iván Ramis Barrios (CD-L), José Carlos Araújo (Nunes) (CD-R), Enrique Corrales (RM), Gonzalo Castro (Chori) (LM), Josep Lluis Martí (CM-L), Jonathan De Guzmán (CM-R), Tomás Pina Isla, (RM), Emilio Nsue (F), Pierre Achile Webó (F)<br><br> <br><br>Formation: 4-4-2<br><br> <br><br>Summary: Mallorca is an island team from the Balearic Islands. Historically they have exceeded expectations, having spent 20 seasons in the Spanish Top Flight, finishing 3rd twice in La Liga (1998-99 & 2000-01), and having won the Copa del Rey in 2002-03. Staying in the top four of the table most of last year, Mallorca's current nightmare started after they beat Espanyol in their final match putting them ahead of Sevilla briefly on the table. Mallorica watched the final minutes of the Sevilla game on the jumbotron while they sat on the field. Sevilla sank Almeria 3-2 on a last-minute strike. From there it's only been a mess. In May, Mallorca applied for voluntary administration (bankruptcy) amid estimated debts of 70million. Then in July, UEFA denied Los Bermellones entry into the 2010/11 Europe League deeming the administration and debts as foul of financial regulations. The team was dismantled, selling Aritz Aduriz, Borja Valero, and Mario Suárez to pay debts. Between them they played 92 games, scored 22 goals, and dished-out 13 assists. Fortunately Mallorca had a well balanced attack with 37 goals coming from the rest of the team. Nevertheless, their big guns are gone. Depth will be a problem as well. There is some quality with Nunes, Gonzalo Castro, Josep Lluis Martí, Ayoze Díaz Díaz and Iván Ramis Barrios. A fall is likely, but not relegation. That should be a good thing with what surrounds the club. Michael Laudrup has his work cut-out for him.<br><br> <br><br>Player to Watch: Gonzalo Castro (Chori)<br><br>Captain: José Carlos Araújo (Nunes)<br><br>Prediction: 13th<br><br> <br><br>----------------------------------------------------<br><br> <br><br>MÁLAGA<br><br>Founded: 1948<br><br>Nicknames: Boquerones (Anchovies)<br><br>Ground: La Rosaleda<br><br>Capacity: 28,963<br><br>Last Year: 17th (37 Pts)<br><br>Manager: Jesualdo Ferreira<br><br> <br><br>Players In: Galatto (Atletico Paranaense), Fernández (Banfield), Malagueño (Indios), José Salomón Rondón (Las Palmas), Sandro Silva (Botafogo), Eliseu Pereira dos Santos (Eliseu) (Lazio)<br><br> <br><br>Players Out: Miguel Ángel, Pere Martí, Muñiz (Entrenador), Fernando, Stepanov, Santamaría (Las Palmas), Munúa, Stepanov (Oporto),Valdo (Espanyol),Orozco, Caicedo (Man. City), Obbina (Inter de Milán), Forestieri (Genoa), Xavi Torres (Levante)<br><br> <br><br>Best 11: Francesc Arnau (G), Patrick Mtiliga (LM), Weligton Robson Pena de Oliveira (Weligton) (CD-L), Juan Rosario Hélder (CD-R), Jesús Gámez Duarte (RB), Sérgio Paulo Barbosa Valente (Duda) (LM), Fernando Miguel Fernández Escribano (Fernando) (CM-L), Antonio Galdeano Benítez (Apoño) (CM-R), Eliseu Pereira dos Santos (Eliseu) (RM), José Salomón Rondón (F), Sebastián Fernández Miglierina (F)<br><br> <br><br>Formation: 4-4-2<br><br> <br><br>Summary: Málaga CF is generally considered the heir of CD Málaga. Together, they have spend 29 seasons in La Liga. On the all-time La Liga table, combined they would rank 19th. Málaga has a sizeable British following, as result of the amount of British expats residing on the Costa del Sol. Málaga is the southernmost large city in Europe. Last year they finished a disappointing 17th. Having scored 42 goals and allowing 48, their goal differential suggests a mid-table team, but stats don't always reflect in numbers. To blame was former manager Muñiz's inept management. A last round win by Valencia over Tenerife and a Málaga draw with Real Madrid sent Tenerife to the Segunda and secured survival for Málaga. This win was critical because President Fernando Sanz had been negotiating a sale of the club to a Qatari Sheikh, Abdullah Bin Nasser Al-Thani. The deal totaled 36m, but most importantly it included all debts. Al-Thani's plan is to build and invest slowly over the next 3-4 years. New manager, Jesualdo Ferreira comes having success at FC Porto, winning 3 titles in Portugal. Prior to winnng these titles, Jose Mourniho had a swipe a Ferreira in his weekly column for Portuguese sports magazine Record comparing Ferreira to a donkey who worked for 30 years and never became a horse. Mark Málaga vs. Real Madrid as two must see games this year. There already is talent in the midfield with Duda and Apoño and the signing of José Salomón Rondón and Eliseu Pereira dos Santos (Eliseu) will help the attack. Málaga will make some progress this year up the table.<br><br> <br><br>Player to Watch: Duda<br><br>Captain: Francesc Arnau<br><br>Prediction: 11th<br><br> <br><br>----------------------------------------------------<br><br> <br><br>OSASUNA<br><br>Founded: 1920<br><br>Nicknames: Los Rojillos, "Gorritxoak" (The little red ones)<br><br>Ground: Estadio Reyno de Navarra<br><br>Capacity: 19,800<br><br>Last Year: 12th (43 Pts)<br><br>Manager: José Antonio Camacho<br><br> <br><br>Players In: Dejan Lekic (Estrella Roja), Damiá (Betis), Soriano (Almería), Asier Riesgo (Real Sociedad), Medina, Kike Sola<br><br> <br><br>Players Out: Azpilicueta (Olympique Marsella), Dady (Bucapsor), Galán (Huesca), Andrés Fernández (Huesca), Esparza (Huesca), Delporte<br><br> <br><br>Best 11: Ricardo (G), Nacho Monreal (LB), Miguel Flaño (CD-L), Sergio Fernández (CD-R), Damià Abella Pérez (RB), Javier Camuñas (LM), Javad Nekounam (CM), Juanfran (RM), Dejan Lekic (AM-L), Masoud Shojaei (AM-R), Pandiani (CF)<br><br> <br><br>Formation: 4-3-2-1 / 4-2-3-1 / 4-4-2 / 4-4-1-1<br><br> <br><br>Summary: Osasuna has spent 33 seasons in La Liga over its 90 year existence with it's highest-ever position being 4th on 2 occasions (1990-91 & 2005-06). Zaragoza's derby match of every season encounters Osasuna with Real Zaragoza. Last year they finished in the middle of the pack at 12th, but were 3 points within 7 teams on table. 2 years ago they had to beat Real Madrid on the last day of the season to avoid relegation. Osasuna's biggest asset may be manager José Antonio Camacho, one of the most experienced Spanish managers in today's game. A Camacho trademark is tactical fluidity. He will use formations to fit the situation, hence the 4 formations listed above. Leading the attack last year was "El Rifle", Walter Pandani with 11 goals. Although strong and great in the air, he is getting-on in years and would probably be more productive as an MLS Designated player than leading the line of a La Liga side. Masoud Shojaei, when healthy a productive attacking midfielder and Juanfran is good winger. However, Osasuna scored a dismal 37 goals last season. The arrival of 6-4 Serbian Striker Dejan Lekic will help. However, this is an aging team that will need to rely on a respectable defense, tactically acumen of Camacho, and veteran savvy. Otherwise, they could be flirting with relegation again like in 2008-09.<br><br> <br><br>Player to Watch: Dejan Lekic<br><br>Captain: Francisco Puñal<br><br>Prediction: 15th<br><br> <br><br>----------------------------------------------------<br><br> <br><br>RACING SANTANDER<br><br>Founded: 1913<br><br>Nicknames: Los Racinguistas (of Racing), Los Verdiblancos (The Green and Whites), Los Montañeses (The Highlanders / Mountains)<br><br>Ground: El Sardinero<br><br>Capacity: 22,271<br><br>Last Year: 16th (39 Pts)<br><br>Manager: Miguel Ángel Portugal<br><br> <br><br>Players In: Ariel Nahuelpan (Barcelona), Henrique Adriano Buss (Barcelona), Bakircioglu (Ajax), Cisma (Almería), Francis (Xerez), Mario Ortiz, Ismodes<br><br> <br><br>Players Out: Canales (Real Madrid), Luis García, Moratón, Oriol (Aris), Xisco (Newcastle), Morris (Panathinaikos), Crespo (Sevilla), Juanjo Expósito (Wattford), Jorge Gonçalves (Olhanense), Sarmiento (Salamanca), Luis García<br><br> <br><br>Best 11: Toño (G), Domingo Cisma (LB), Henrique Adriano Buss (CD-L), Oriol Lozano (CD-R), Pablo Pinillos (RB), Óscar Serrano (LM), Gonzalo Colsa (CM-L), Papa Kouli Diop (CM-R), Manuel Arana Rodríguez (Arana) (RM), Kennedy Bakircioglu (F), Mohammed Tchité (Memé) (F)<br><br> <br><br>Formation: 4-4-2 / 4-2-3-1<br><br> <br><br>Summary: Racing has spent 43 seasons in the Spanish Top Tier, most notably 2nd in 1930-31, and qualified for the UEFA Cup in 2006-07. Last year they fought possible relegation until the bitter end, finishing 16th 39 points. Manager Miguel Ángel Portugal has deep roots with Real Madrid as a player having won 2 La Liga titles, as a Technical Director at Madrid, and as coach of the Madrid B & C teams. Much of last year he employed a conservative and counterattacking 4-2-3-1 with a lone striker. At age 35, Pedro Alvarez Munitis doesn't have much gas left in the tank. Mohammed Tchité (Memé) is a service-able striker. Despite these tactics they still conceded 59 goals. Matching last season's 42 goals may be enough to survive another season in La Liga, but it's hard to see where the goals are going to come from. After all the signings that Real Madrid made this summer, Sergio Canales should have stayed at Racing. It would really have helped and he would have played. Another relegation fight is probable again.<br><br> <br><br>Player to Watch: Mohammed Tchité (Memé)<br><br>Captain: Pablo Pinillos<br><br>Prediction: 18th<br><br> <br><br>----------------------------------------------------<br><br> <br><br>REAL MADRID<br><br>Founded: 1902<br><br>Nicknames: Los Blancos (The Whites), Los Merengues (The Merengues)<br><br>Ground: Santiago Bernabéu<br><br>Capacity: 80,354<br><br>Last Year: 2nd (96 Pts)<br><br>Manager: José Mourinho<br><br> <br><br>Players In: Ricardo Carvalho (Chelsea ), Sami Khedira (Stuttgart), Pedro León (Getafe), Angel Di María (Benfica), Sergio Canales (Racing Santander), Mesut Özil (Werder Bremen)<br><br> <br><br>Players Out: Marcos Alonso (Bolton), Raúl (Schalke 04), Guti (Besiktas), Metzelder (Schalke 04), Rodrigo (Benfica)<br><br> <br><br>Best 11: Iker Casillas (G), Arbeloa (LB), Ricardo Carvalho (CD-L), Raúl Albiol (CD-R), Sergio Ramos (RB), Xabi Alonso (LM), Mesut Özil (CM), Sami Khedira (RM), Ángel Di María (LW), Gonzalo Higuaín (CF), Cristiano Ronaldo (RW)<br><br> <br><br>Formation: 4-3-3 / 4-3-1-2<br><br> <br><br>Summary: Real Madrid is the most successful club in La Liga history with 31 La Liga Titles. Add on to that 17 Spanish Cups, 8 Spanish Supercups, 1 Copa Eva Duarte, 9 UEFA Champions Leagues, 2 UEFA Cups, 1 UEFA Supercup, and 3 Intercontinental Cups and you see why FIFA voted Real Madrid as the most successful club of the 20th century. If that wasn't enough, Madrid is the highest valued and most followed professional sports club on the planet. Last year, Madrid had the 2nd highest point tally in La Liga history at 96 points, but it was unfortunately not enough to surpass FC Barcelona's 99 points. The two highest point totals in La Liga history in the same year. But Madridistas do not need to fear. With the arrival Manager José Mourinho, Madrid has the mastermind that engineered Intermilan's game-plan that sent Barcelona home in last year's Champion's League. Plus a host of world-class signings, including Ricardo Carvalho, Sami Khedira, Angel Di María, and Mesut Özil, will likely work their way into Mourinho's starting 11. The distribution that will come from Xabi Alonso, Mesut Özil, and Sami Khedira will be a thing of beauty to watch. Ángel Di María, Gonzalo Higuaín, and Cristiano Ronaldo will lead what may be the greatest counter-attack anyone will ever see. The frightening thing for opposing teams, is we haven't even mentioned Kaka yet, who will miss a bit of the season with injuries. Expectations are always the highest in Madrid. This year, the expectation will be perfection. There are 114 possible points. This year Madrid and Barcelona may both surpass the 100 mark. The most difficult dates on the calendar for Madrid will be road dates at Atlético Madrid and Athletic Bilbao and of course el Clásico. However, the most critical thing maybe to simply keep focus the whole way. This superhuman season-long concentration will determine the outcome of perhaps La Liga's greatest title race ever.<br><br> <br><br>Player to Watch: Cristiano Ronaldo<br><br>Captain: Iker Casillas<br><br>Potential Revelation: Sergio Canales<br><br>Prediction: 1st<br><br> <br><br>----------------------------------------------------<br><br> <br><br>REAL SOCIEDAD<br><br>Founded: 1909<br><br>Nicknames: Txuri-urdin (white-blue), Erreala<br><br>Ground: Estadio Anoeta<br><br>Capacity: 32,076<br><br>Last Year: Promoted<br><br>Manager: Martín Lasarte<br><br> <br><br>Players In: Raúl Tamudo (Espanyol), Paco Sutil (Eibar), Joseba Llorente Etxarri (Villarreal), Toño<br><br> <br><br>Players Out: Franck Songo'o (Zaragoza), Emilio Nsue (Mallorca), Carlos Bueno (Peñarol), Jonathan Estrada (Millonarios Bogotá), Sergio Rodríguez y Asier Riesgo (Osasuna)<br><br> <br><br>Best 11: Claudio Bravo Muñoz (G), Alberto de la Bella (LM), Ion Ansotegui (CD-L), Mikel González (CD-R), Carlos Martínez (RM), Diego Rivas Gutiérrez (CM-L), Mikel Aramburu (CM-R), Francisco Sutil Tirado (LM), Xabi Prieto (CM), David Zurutuza (RM), Joseba Llorente Etxarri (CF)<br><br> <br><br>Formation: 4-5-1<br><br> <br><br>Summary: Make no mistake, Real Sociedad is not a small team that won the Segunda Division and was promoted. Sociedad ranks 8th on La Liga's all-time table, has spent 64 seasons in La Liga, has won La Liga twice in 1980-81 and 1981-82, and has won the Copa del Rey twice in 1908-09 and 1986-87. Add to that a 32,076 stadium and you have a rather large club. Last year they finished 1st in the Segunda Division with 74 points, scored 53 goals, and conceded 37. Real Sociedad attempt to keep a core of Basque players, but also employ non-Basque Spanish players and foreigners. For the most part you will see the exact same team that won promotion from last year with the exception of Joseba Llorente Etxarri, who signed from Villarreal. He'll face his former team in the 1st Round of La Liga. Etxarri is a proven scorer that should help an already cohesive team hopefully stay in La Liga.<br><br> <br><br>Player to Watch: Joseba Llorente Etxarri<br><br>Captain: Mikel Aranburu<br><br>Prediction: 16th<br><br> <br><br>----------------------------------------------------<br><br> <br><br>REAL ZARAGOZA<br><br>Founded: 1932<br><br>Nicknames: Blanquillos (little-whites), Maños (magnus / great)<br><br>Ground: La Romareda<br><br>Capacity: 34,596<br><br>Last Year: 14th (41 Pts)<br><br>Manager: José Aurelio Gay<br><br> <br><br>Players In: Álex Sánchez (Barcelona), Nicolás Bertolo (Palermo), Marco Pérez (Gimnasia y Esgrima), Leo Franco (Galatasaray), Matteo Contini (Napoles), Toni Doblas (Huesca), Songo'o, De Barros, Braulio<br><br> <br><br>Players Out: Carrizo, Humberto Suazo (Monterrey), Eliseu (Lazio), Luccin, Pulido, Roberto (Atlético), Arizmendi (Getafe), Edmilson, Pablo Amo, Abel Aguilar (Hércules), Adrián Colunga (Recreativo)<br><br> <br><br>Best 11: Leo Franco (G), Ivan Obradović (LB), Matteo Contini (CD-L), Jiri Jarosik (CD-R), Carlos Diogo (RB), Ander Herrera (LM), José Gomes Moraes (Edmílson) (CM), Gabriel Fernández Arenas (Gabi) (RM), Ángel Lafita Castillo (Lafita) (AM-L), Jorge López (AM-R), Ikechukwu Uche (CF)<br><br> <br><br>Formation: 4-3-2-1 / 4-2-3-1<br><br> <br><br>Summary: Real Zaragoza ranks 9th in Spain's all-time league table. In cup wins they are ranked 6th with 6 victories in the Copa del Rey among other trophies. Last year they were able to scrape their way up to 14th, having gained promotion the year prior. To stay in La Liga they'll need to improve all over the field having scored only 46 goals and allowing 64. Last year, Manager José Aurelio Gay employed a flexible 4-2-3-1 formation with a midfield that fed Chilean striker Humberto Suazo while he was on loan. His 8 goals in 17 games was the closest thing Zaragoza had to a capable scorer. Suazo does not return and striker Ikechukwu Uche is set to miss the first month of the season, Zaragoza will again have to find goals collectively. Signing Matteo Contini and a breakthrough season by Ivan Obradović could help a porous defense. Anticipate Real Zaragoza to be in the middle of a relegation battle again.<br><br> <br><br>Player to Watch: Matteo Contini<br><br>Captain: Gabriel Fernández Arenas (Gabi)<br><br>Potential Revelation: Ivan Obradović<br><br>Prediction: 17th<br><br> <br><br>----------------------------------------------------<br><br> <br><br>SEVILLA FC<br><br>Founded: 1905<br><br>Nicknames: Sevillistas, Rojiblancos (Red-Whites), Los nervionenses<br><br>Ground: Ramón Sánchez Pizjuán<br><br>Capacity: 48,649<br><br>Last Year: 4th (63 Pts)<br><br>Manager: Antonio Álvarez<br><br> <br><br>Players In: Luca Cigarini (Nápoles), Tiberio Guarente (Atalanta), Dabo (Saint Etienne), Alfaro (Tenerife), Koné, David Prieto, Chevantón, Armenteros<br><br> <br><br>Players Out: De Mul (Standard de Lieja) , José Ángel Crespo (Padova) Adriano (Barcelona), Marc Valiente (Valladolid), Stankevicius (Sampdoria), David Prieto (Tenerife)<br><br> <br><br>Best 11: Andrés Palop (G), Fernando Navarro (LB), Sébastien Squillaci (CD-L), Julien Escudé (CD-R), Abdoulay Konko (RB), Diego Perotti (LM), Didier Zokora (CM-L), Renato (CM-R), Jesús Navas (RM), Luis Fabiano (F), Frederic Kanouté (F)<br><br> <br><br>Formation: 4-4-2<br><br>Summary: Founded in 1905, Sevilla is 100+ years old and has 1 La Liga title to it's name and 5 "Copa del Rey" Spanish Cups. Last year they won the Copa del Rey. Their nickname Los nervionenses refers to the River Nervion that passes through the city of Sevilla. Last year, Sevilla earned the fourth and final Champions League spot. Sevilla is known for a deadly attack. Antonio Álvarez uses a standard 4-4-2 with two outright strikers either Luis Fabiano, Frederic Kanouté, or Álvaro Negredo who are supported by wingers Jesús Navas, Diego Perotti, or Diego Capel. Fabiano is world-class when at his best. Kanouté can also serve as a target man, thus making partnerships with Fabiano and Negredo devastating. Navas was a major contributor on Spain's World Cup winning side this past summer. Didier Zokora is an effective holding/defensive mid-fielder, but is known to get unnecessary cards. Another top 3-4 finish will be expected. They are about a year away from probably blowing-up the team and selling Fabiano and Squillaci. As of this writing they have not been sold, but rumors about their transfers abound.<br><br> <br><br>Player to Watch: Jesús Navas<br><br>Captain: Andrés Palop<br><br>Prediction: 4th (Champions League Qualification)<br><br> <br><br>----------------------------------------------------<br><br> <br><br>SPORTING GIJON<br><br>Founded: 1905<br><br>Nicknames: Sportinguistas (those from Sporting) / Gijonudos (ballsy Gijon) / Rojiblancos (red & whites)<br><br>Ground: El Molinón<br><br>Capacity: 25,885<br><br>Last Year: 15th (40 Pts)<br><br>Manager: Manuel Preciado<br><br> <br><br>Players In: Sebastián Eguren (Villareal), Alberto Botía (Barcelona), Nacho Novo (Glasgow Rangers), Ayoze García Pérez (Ayoze) (Tenerife), Gastón Sangoy (Apollon Limassol ), Jorge García (Gimnàstic de Tarragona)<br><br> <br><br>Players Out: Maldonado (Cartagena), Gerard Autet, Milan Smiljanic (Lola) (Espanyol), Diego Camacho, Pedro Santa Cecilia (Pedro), Enrique Mateo Montoya (Elche CF)<br><br> <br><br>Best 11: Pichu Cuéllar (G), Roberto Canella Suárez (LB), Grégory Arnolin (CD-L), Iván Hernández Soto (CD-R), Rafael Sastre Reus (Sastre) (RB), Diego Castro Gimenez (LM), Sebastián Eguren (CM), Miguel de las Cuevas (RM), Nacho Novo (AM-L), Alberto Lora Ramos (AM-R), Mate Bilic (CF)<br><br> <br><br>Formation: 4-3-2-1<br><br> <br><br>Summary: Sporting Gijón is the 6th oldest team in La Liga and sits 15th on the all-time table. Last year they took a step back one spot on the table to 15th from 14th the previous year. However, Sporting was probably a slightly better team last year. 2 years ago after promotion to La Liga, Sporting did not take the typical play-it-safe approach, but rather used an attacking and free-flowing game that resulted in 47 goals and a staggering 79 conceded. This attacking style reflected their ballsy nickname Gijonudos. Last year Sporting sealed-up the defense somewhat letting in 51 goals. Defensively, the back door is half-way closed, but offensively Sporting will need to find more goals than the 36 of last year. There is some quality with Diego Castro as an attacking midfielder, Miguel de las Cuevas a versatile player capable of playing on the wings, behind a striker or in the midfield, and Roberto Canella Suárez, one of the most talented left-backs in La Liga. With continued incremental improvement, Sporting could see themselves mid-table or if they regress defensively, find themselves in a relegation battle.<br><br> <br><br>Player to Watch: Roberto Canella.<br><br>Captain: Rafael Sastre Reus (Sastre)<br><br>Potential Revelation: Alberto Botía<br><br>Prediction: 14th<br><br> <br><br>----------------------------------------------------<br><br> <br><br>VALENCIA<br><br>Founded: 1919<br><br>Nicknames: Los Che (Surprise / Exclamation), Murciélagos (Bats), Valencianistas<br><br>Ground: Mestalla<br><br>Capacity: 55,000<br><br>Last Year: 3rd (71 Pts)<br><br>Manager: Unai Emery<br><br> <br><br>Players In: Artiz Aduriz (Mallorca), Alberto Tino Costa (Montpellier), Roberto Soldado (Getafe), Mehmet Topal (Galatasaray), Ricardo Costa (Lille), Feghouli (Grenoble), Sunny, Del Horno, Guaita, Hugo Viana, Nacho González<br><br> <br><br>Players Out: Aarón Ñíguez (Recreativo) , Marchena (Villarreal), Lombán (Xerez) , David Silva (Manchester City), Baraja, David Villa (Barcelona), Zigic (Birmingham), Míchel (Deportivo), Renan (Sport Club Internacional)<br><br> <br><br>Best 11: César (G), Bruno (LB), Alexis (CD-L), Ángel Dealbert (CD-R), Miguel (RB), Juan Mata (LM), Alberto Tino Costa (CM-L), Ever Banega (CM-R), Pablo Hernández (RM), Aritz Aduriz (F), Soldado (F)<br><br> <br><br>Formation: 4-4-2 / 4-2-3-1<br><br> <br><br>Summary: Valencia is one the most success teams in La Liga history having won the league 6 times. In La Liga's all-time table, Valencia is 3rd behind just Real Madrid and FC Barcelona. They also are the last team to win La Liga outside of Madrid or Barcelona, back in 2003-04. Going a step further with the bronze-metal-theme, Valencia are the 3rd most supported team in Spain as well. Last year, Valencia finished (you guessed it) 3rd in the table with 71 points. Tactically, Valencia like to soak-up pressure and strike on the counterattack. They also have a lot of movement up front in attack. This summer, Valencia finally cashed-in and sold David Villa and David Silva. Roberto Soldado and Artiz Aduriz could prove to be cheaper replacements having combined for 28 goals last year, compared to Villa and Silva's 29. Other signings that will make an already strong team a bit deeper include Alberto Tino Costa, Mehmet Topal, and Ricardo Costa. Ever Banega and Pablo Hernández are budding stars in the mold of Villa and Silva a few years back. Ángel Dealbert will have to step-up to fill the large shoes vacated by Marchena in the heart of the defense. Finishing 3rd this year will be a bit tougher than last year with Atlético Madrid having improved. Nevertheless, Valencia will be fighting for a Champions League spot again.<br><br> <br><br>Player to Watch: Juan Mata<br><br>Captain: TBD<br><br>Prediction: 5th (Europa League Qualification)<br><br> <br><br>----------------------------------------------------<br><br> <br><br>VILLARREAL<br><br>Founded: 1923<br><br>Nicknames: El Submarino Amarillo (The Yellow Submarine)<br><br>Ground: El Madrigal<br><br>Capacity: 25,000<br><br>Last Year: 7th (56 Pts)<br><br>Manager: Juan Carlos Garrido<br><br> <br><br>Players In: Carlos Marchena (Valencia), Dervite (Tottenham), Borja Valero (West Bromwich Albion), Altidore, Somoza<br><br> <br><br>Players Out: Escudero (Boca), Joseba Llorente (R. Sociedad), Pires, Ibagaza (Olympiacos), Eguren (Sporting), Javi Venta, Marcano (Getafe), Sigali (Godoy Cruz), Godín (Atlético de Madrid)<br><br> <br><br>Best 11: Diego López (G), Joan Capdevila (LM), Gonzalo Rodríguez (CD-L), Carlos Marchena (CD-R), Ángel López (RB), Borja Valero Iglesias (LM), Marcos Senna (CM-L), Bruno Soriano Llido (CM-R), Santiago Cazorla González (RM), Giuseppe Rossi (F), Nilmar (F)<br><br> <br><br>Formation: 4-4-2 / 4-3-3<br><br> <br><br>Summary: Villarreal was founded in 1923, but did not make it to the Spanish 1st Division until 65 years later in 1998 and have stayed since 2000. Villarreal, based in the small town of Vila-real, are known as The Yellow Submarine for their yellow-on-yellow uniforms. Last year was a bit of a disappointment not finishing in a Champions League or a Europa League spot. 7th should be a great finish for a club from such a small town, but success over the past number of years has increased expectations for European football. Villarreal play an aggressive pressing style defensively and a quick passing game offensively. Depending on the situation they can become more defensive if necessary and manager Juan Carlos Garrido has been known to deploy numerous formations. In attack, they have a lot of weapons with the young Giuseppe Rossi and Nilmar and recently signed Borja Valero. On the backline, Joan Capdevila and the recently acquired Carlos Marchena both won the 2010 World Cup with Spain and should be productive for a least another year. An improvement on 7th place or even a Champions League spot is possible, but not likely unless some other teams slip.<br><br> <br><br>Player to Watch: Nilmar<br><br>Captain: Marcos Senna<br><br>Potential Revelation: Mateo Pablo Mussachio<br><br>Prediction: 6th (Europa League Qualification)
Stephen Kuzner
2010-08-23T16:00:00Z
Adebayor Focused on City
Tom Mallows and Betfair's View
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Adebayor-Focused-on-City/-648552262937803268.html
2010-08-22T17:00:00Z
2010-08-22T17:00:00Z
By Tom Mallows - <br><br>Manchester City striker Emmanuel Adebayor could be on his way out of Eastlands. The Togo striker was left on the bench for much of his side's opening league game against Tottenham, coming on with just eight minutes to go. His position has become more fragile with the signing of Italian front man Mario Balotelli. Real Madrid are keen to take Adebayor to the Bernabeu and are weighing up a move for the 26-year-old who scored 14 Premier League goals.<br><br>Real were one of the teams who took an interest in Adebayor last summer before City stepped in with £25 million bid to secure their man from Arsenal. Adebayor was given a full match in the week in the 1-0 Europa League victory over Romanian team Timisoara though which will give him some confidence.<br><br>He won't settle for a bit part place in this team but it looks as though Mancini is still confident in the striker. His record in the Premier League is pretty prolific, in his three years at Arsenal, Adebayor scored 46 goals for the Gunners. His carried that form with him to City and his 14 goals came in only 29 matches, including a goal against his former club which resulted in him running the length of the pitch to celebrate in front of the Gunners fans.<br><br>Adebayor has made it clear he isn't seeking a move and is happy at Eastlands. If he spends more of this season on the bench he may be forced to reassess his options. With rival strikers Jo, Robinho and Roque Santa Cruz on the verge of leaving the club, Adebayor will be crucial to Mancini. Despite Balotelli scoring on his debut against Timisoara, he has no experience of the Premier League and could take a while to adapt to the league. Many people have made Manchester City betting tips <a href="http://www.betfairfootball.com/premier-league/manchester-city/">Manchester City betting tips</a> for the title, but they need a proven goalscorer if they are to live up to this.<br><br>Adebayor knows what it takes to succeed in this league, his partnership with Carlos Tevez last year was a fruitful one and should be given a chance this season. Another bonus for City is the fact that Adebayor will be able to fully focus on his club side after taking the decision to retire from international football, meaning he won't be forced to travel to represent his country.<br><br>Meanwhile, most people now make Wolves betting tips <a href="http://www.betfairfootball.com/premier-league/wolverhampton-wanderers/">Wolves betting tips</a> to stay up this season after the side took four points from their first two games.<br><br>The side face Newcastle United in their next game.
Tom Mallows and Betfair's View
2010-08-22T17:00:00Z
TORONTO FC vs. CRUZ AZUL MATCH REPORT
Robin Kilgore
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/TORONTO-FC-vs.-CRUZ-AZUL-MATCH-REPORT/362910671604219319.html
2010-08-19T17:00:00Z
2010-08-19T17:00:00Z
Robin Kilgore<br>World Football Daily Correspondent<br><br>On Tuesday night, Toronto FC opened up their CONCACAF Champions League group stage games against Mexican powerhouse <a href="/images/potd/CruzAzul.jpg">Cruz Azul</a>. It was a beautiful night for North American football. The sunset was majestic as colors of blue, purple and orange filled the sky. A strong wind was blowing and conditions on the field were a little crisp but comfortable. <br><br>It was obvious that TFC had a height advantage. Defenders Adrian Cann and Maksim Usmanov towered over the Mexican front line. But with starters Chad Barret and Maicon out due to injury, Coach Preki was confident his team had more than just height to their advantage. O'Brian White and Mista started up front with Captain <a href="/images/potd/TFCvCruzAzul.jpg">Dwayne DeRosario</a> running the midfield. <br><br>From the opening whistle, Toronto controlled the game. After only three minutes, Martin Saric headed in the opening goal, his first for the club, thoroughly shocking the Mexican side which was unprepared for the ball that was bouncing along in the six yard box. It was an excellent start to the game that set the tone for the rest of the first half.<br><br>Immediately, Toronto kept pressing the ball up field. One minute after the goal, O'Brian White found some open space a took a shot, but it went wide of the goal.<br><br>As the first half went on, it was clear Toronto were the stronger side. Whether Cruz Azul underestimated their opponents from the north was uncertain, but they were clearly frustrated with the few scoring opportunities they had in the first half . Toronto FC defender Maksim Usmanov was tremendous in the back making strong tackles and hindering the forwards from pressing the ball into the box. In the 40th minute, Toronto goal keeper Jon Conway saved a shot from Alejandro Vela that was aimed at the bottom right of the net. It wasn't the strongest of strikes but Conway reacted quickly to parry the ball and deny them an opportunity to tie the game. <br><br>Minutes later, Toronto pressed the ball downfield. As Raivis Hscanovics controlled the ball down the left side, he passed to a wide open Mista on the edge of the box who settled the ball with his right foot and quickly fired with his left. The keeper was able to get a hand , but it wasn't enough as the ball rolled its way to the back of the net. This was Mista's first goal for the club and at the end of the first half it was Toronto ahead 2-nil. <br><br>Cruz Azul coach Enrique Meza made two substitutions at the half, including Mexican National Gerardo Torrado and Christian Gimenez. In the 55th, they had their best opportunity as Gimenez fired a long range strike from about 8 yards outside the box. Goalkeeper Conway launched himself to his right and was able to safely and effectively deflect the ball for a corner.<br><br>The Toronto defense was unrelenting in the second half as the Cruz Azul forwards worked to get on the scoreboard. Fouls started flying from both teams as the game wore on. Two yellow cards for the visitors in the last 15 minutes and one for TFC substitute Jacob Peterson were given.<br><br>It wasn't until the 89th minute when the Mexicans finally broke through and hit the net. A free kick by Christian Gimenez was struck outside the box and bounced off the post to give them their first goal. Jon Conway covered the left side of the goal, and had his four teammates set up a wall to cover the right side. Unfortunately, the wall didn't jump and the ball sailed just over Adrian Cann's head. <br><br>Dwayne De Rosorio was yellow carded deep into stoppage time but the Reds were able to hold on and secure their first Champions League win in front of over <a href="/images/potd/TFCandCAzul.jpg">16,000 fans</a>. <br><br>This win takes TFC's home field unbeaten record to 14 straight games in all competitions. Next they welcome Theirry Henry and the New York Red Bulls to BMO Field for a league match on Saturday afternoon. The Reds look to avenge their recent loss to NY which ended 1-0. <br><br>The current Toronto squad is a strong team, built on a beautiful foundation located at <a href="/images/potd/TFCBMOview06.jpg">BMO Field</a> nestled west of downtown and against the harbour front of Lake Ontario. A rainbow colored sunset filled the sky over the red and white stands while the fans filed in. TFC fans are extremely passionate and are dedicated to the success of the club that rival all the major European clubs. A yell leader guided the scarf adorned supporters groups through a myriad of cheers and songs through out the match that could be heard for kilometers outside the stadium. This match was a pleasure for this Los Angeleno to attend.
Robin Kilgore
2010-08-19T17:00:00Z
Gunners offer fans a share of the club
Tom Mallows and Betfair's View
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Gunners-offer-fans-a-share-of-the-club/-50762097901537826.html
2010-08-18T17:00:00Z
2010-08-18T17:00:00Z
By Tom Mallows - <br><br>Arsenal have often attempted to use innovative ideas to help support the club in its bid for success, with the decision during the Herbert Chapman era to publicise the club by persuading Islington council to name the nearest Underground station after the club one of many examples of the club's creative moves.<br><br>Now, with the introduction of the Arsenal Fanshare scheme, pioneered by Arsenal Supporters Trust (AST), a body recognised for their active involvement in the running of the club, Arsenal have yet again led the way in English football.<br><br>The new model seeks to establish something that the club's fans, and owners, hold dear - the continuation of a plurality of ownership. In an age that has seen clubs such as Manchester United faced with crippling debts after being taken over by an individual, and the continuing debacle at Liverpool, Arsenal have responded to the wishes of their fans by handing them the opportunity to have a direct say in how the club is run. This should give the fans another boost after the Betfair Football rumour mill <a href="http://www.betfairfootball.com/">Betfair Football rumor mill</a> linked them with the purchase of a top keeper in the shape of Mark Schwarzer.<br><br>Although an individual wishing to purchase a share in the club would be required to part with a minimum of £9,500, the Fanshare offer allows members to club together with the AST to own anything ranging from a 1/100 of a share, to investing the full amount for any length of time. This may seem like a tiny fraction of the club, but the AST are confident that 25 per cent of Arsenal could be owned by fans, a share size significant enough to provide a blocking stake in the club.<br><br>With the model based on fan-led ownership that is required by law in Germany, many pundits and fans are hoping that Arsenal's Fanshare innovation is successful enough to be exported to other Premier League clubs in the near future.<br><br>Meanwhile, Arsenal face Blackpool and Blackburn in their next two games and both the Blackpool and the Blackburn betting <a href="http://www.betfairfootball.com/premier-league/blackburn-rovers/">Blackburn beting</a> suggest the Gunners should take six points.
Tom Mallows and Betfair's View
2010-08-18T17:00:00Z
The Smart Season: Squad Rules Bolster EPL?
Stephen Kuzner
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/The-Smart-Season:-Squad-Rules-Bolster-EPL/639678490658385865.html
2010-08-14T17:00:00Z
2010-08-14T17:00:00Z
By Stephen Kuzner - WFD Fan Correspondent<br><br>The Premier League's decision to implement rules limiting squads to 25 players, 8 of which must be 'home-grown' was done for the sake of developing English national team players. However, it is possible England may not get any benefit from the changes because 'home-grown' doesn't mean English, rather a player must have spent 3 years between the ages of 16-21 registered at the club. There is no limit on players under age 21. But above age 21, a team can name no more than 17 in their squad until the next transfer window. It will take a few years to see if the squad rules will have their intended effect or not. In the mean time, what will be the consequences of the squad limitations on the EPL?<br><br>Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger had strong words about the rules saying they have paralyzed the transfer market and will ruin the EPL. The transfer market may have dried up because no one has much money to spend and transfer figures have been inflated by Manchester City and Real Madrid the past two years. Like the financial crisis, there seems to be a market-correction this summer in the transfer window. However, in the long-run, Wenger may be correct. If a club develops 8 players capable of being in the squad, clubs will want to hang-on to them because these players will fit their system, save the club money on transfer fees, and help fill the 'home-grown' requirements. Retaining 'home-grown' players is good for the long-run economic sustainability of the EPL and its clubs. Also, more 'home-grown' players will probably mean more one-club players. This would be great for improving public relations, but would the quality of players improve as well?<br><br>I say yes. EPL clubs will just have to get better at spotting talent earlier-on. The players don't have to be English. They just need to have spent 3 years between the ages of 16-21 registered at the club. The EPL will just get the prospects before they have been developed into stars. Scouting is a global game and the EPL has more resources to get this done better than any other league in the world. Discovering and developing players is proactive, economical, and sustainable. Buying players is reactive, pricey, and limiting. Moreover, we still need to remember that although the 'home-grown' requirements may actually improve player quality, the clubs still have 17 roster spots to spend money on.<br><br>There are many examples of clubs that develop talent to indicate it as a better model than buying players; that being as long as you can hold-on to the players you develop. The obvious case in point being FC Barcelona producing Víctor Valdés, Gerard Piqué, Carles Puyol, Xavi, Andrés Iniesta, Lionel Messi, Bojan Krkić, Sergio Busquets, Pedro Rodríguez, and Jeffrén Suárez, many of which were local boys. 7 of Spain's starters in the World Cup Final came through the Barca Academy. Barcelona also won 6 Trophies a year ago starting 6-7 academy products. Clearly, developing players can be as or more effective than buying players.<br><br>The key to developing talent is to also retain it. Ajax would be a lot better if they were able to keep Edwin van der Sar, Ryan Babel, Wesley Sneijder, Rafael van der Vaart, Klaas-Jan Huntelaar, Eljero Elia, John Heitinga and Nigel de Jong. The same goes for West Ham United's 'Academy of Football', if they still had Rio Ferdinand, Frank Lampard, Joe Cole, Michael Carrick and Glen Johnson to add to Mark Noble and Jack Collison.<br><br>Perhaps the best example is Athletic Bilbao. Along with FC Barcelona and Real Madrid, Athletic Bilbao has never been relegated in the history of La Liga. Last year, they placed 8th in La Liga. Chances are Bilbao would finish in a similar position if they played in the EPL, at worst, mid-table. The thing is, everyone on their squad hailed from Spain. Bilbao is known for it's 'cantera' policy of bringing young Basque players through the ranks. They essentially primarily discover and develop regional talent. Further, when they do buy players, they buy Basque players.<br><br>Yet, there is another way the EPL will gain from squad limitations. Squad limits will prevent richer teams from hoarding players that don't make it on to the field. When roster limitations were put in place for the NFL, parity increased. The same thing happened in NCAA sports with athletic scholarships here limited. The big dogs need to offload some players. At least in the short-run, this may create a market-correction where player values drop thus making players available and affordable to teams further down the table and in the Championship. Steve Ireland or Craig Bellamy playing for the Fulham's or Bolton's of the world will level the playing field. If any player-hoarding is done, it will be with youth players. However, this doesn't hurt the EPL. It hurts other leagues. The biggest benefit may come to teams on the bottom half of the table. This will make traveling to Bolton on a Monday night that much more difficult for the title-contenders.<br><br>In sum, to counter Wenger's belief that 'Ridiculous' squad rules will ruin the EPL, I say 'Sensible' squad rules will bolster the EPL by forcing it's clubs to do what they should have been doing all along: discovering, developing, and retaining talent. Wenger should be upset. These rules will compel other clubs to run a smarter policy regarding talent more akin to Arsenal. That means less transfers, smarter transfers, and youth development. This summer will be known as when the silly season became the smart season.
Stephen Kuzner
2010-08-14T17:00:00Z
Explaining European Club Football To An American
Stephen Kuzner
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Explaining-European-Club-Football-To-An-American/-585745960012868643.html
2010-08-13T17:00:00Z
2010-08-13T17:00:00Z
By Stephen Kuzner - WFD Fan Correspondent<br><br>I have often found myself the past few years explaining to friends and family how European Club Football works. On the surface it seems naturally foreign, but if you look closer there are some American sporting analogies that can help. Consider this column a first step guide in converting an American Sports Fan to soccer by explaining the European Club season.<br><br>To start, take any professional club team in Europe. In our example, we'll use Tottenham Hotspur (Spurs) that play in the Barclays English Premier League. What Spurs try to achieve in a given season is very similar to what a NCAA Division I Men's College Basketball Team tries to accomplish in a season. A Men's College Basketball Team has three primary goals: (1) to win their conference's regular season, win their conference tournament, and win the larger 64 team NCAA Tournament. Hence, the University of North Carolina Tarheels (UNC) set-out every year to have the best record in the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC), win the ACC Tournament, and win the NCAA Tournament.<br><br>Spurs have three goals as well. They set-out to win the Barclays Premiership, the FA Cup, and UEFA Champions League. Spurs winning the Barclays Premiership would be akin to UNC having the best record in the ACC, Spurs winning the FA Cup parallels with UNC winning the ACC Tournament, and Spurs winning the UEFA Champions League would be the equivalent to UNC winning the NCAA Tournament. Every country in Europe has a top flight league that would relate to each NCAA Division I Basketball Conference. All the NCAA conferences get 1 or more teams into the NCAA Tournament the same way every country in Europe gets 1 or more club into the UEFA Champions League.<br><br>This simple 3-Step analogy is your best bet. Giving deep details will be too much. Diving into the points system in the Barclays Premiership, the set-up of the FA Cup having all Tiers of English football participating via draws, or the intricacies of Champions League qualification would be to much information all at once. However, if asked, the point system in soccer is like hockey's old one, promotion and relegations is like having minor league baseball teams being promoted and relegated between the MLB, Triple A , Double A, and Single A, and Champions League qualification would like having multiple play-in games for the NCAA Tournament. Add in that the FA Cup and UEFA Champions League run during the same time as the season; and you can see that this will start to get confusing. Just parallel Spurs and UNC's three simple goals.<br><br>The same goes for preseason cups or shields. The Community Shield is the equivalent to early season tournaments in college basketball like the Maui Classic. Further, if UNC doesn't qualify for the NCAA Tournament, they'd next want to win the NIT Tournament for teams that didn't make it into the NCAA Tournament. European club football's equivalent would be the Europa League. These lesser goals are really not important to bring-up unless asked because they can just confuse things by adding too many analogies.<br><br>After you give you simple 3-Step analogy of Spurs and UNC, a question about international football will inevitably come-up like: "Is this the same as the Brazilian Team or the World Cup?" You can head-off this at the pass by saying club football is professional football and national teams are like the Olympics. The World Cup is played every four years. Players play for and get paid by their club teams, but also play for their country. Leave it at this.<br><br>So keep it easy, straightforward, and minimal. Spurs are like UNC, the Premiership is the ACC regular season, FA Cup is the ACC Tournament, and the UEFA Champions League is the NCAA Tournament. Your national team is like your Olympic team. There you go. Now, go convert some people.
Stephen Kuzner
2010-08-13T17:00:00Z
The Fatal Flaw
Ryan Rozelle
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/The-Fatal-Flaw/586356397578417202.html
2010-08-11T16:00:00Z
2010-08-11T16:00:00Z
by RYAN ROZELLE, written on AUGUST 10, 2010<br><br>Since England crashed out of the World Cup (at least they made it this time, yes?) the English public and press have been picking over the bones with vulture-like glee. It doesn't take a psychologist or sociologist listening to the famous BBC 606 phone in for more than a few minutes to discover the fatal flaw in the English team, English press, and English fans... they're English.<br><br>With the Sunday papers full of Fabio Capello's "no matter how much you pay me, no matter how much tax money I owe in Italy, I'd still rather be fired than deal with you people" forced mea culpa, the English still didn't get it. They think that even though Fabio Capello has been a proven winner everywhere he has ever gone, he clearly became a bad manager somewhere between qualification and the World Cup.<br><br>BBC pundit and journeyman footballer Steve Claridge even went a few steps further. Fabio Capello, Steve McLaren, and Sven Goran Erickson were all to blame for England's failures, not the players. According to Claridge, England has enough talent to win every tournament; the managers just keep setting the team up wrong. He claims the players know it is wrong, so they lack belief, and that is why they always fall flat.<br><br>Claridge also informed us that the next England manager to be named after the 2012 EUROs (lame duck managers do so well at tournaments, maybe Fabio can win the EUROs!) needs to find a way to cure the players of their boredom while away for tournaments.<br><br>Callers to the 606 opined such brilliant gems as the "fact" that John Terry is the best center back in the entire world. That Steven Gerrard is a world class player. That Wayne Rooney is world class, but wasn't fit, even though he wanted to be. Or that if Lampard's goal against Germany had been given, they would have only lost 3-2 instead of 4-1, and that would have changed everything. And one of my favorites, Rio Ferdinand, has pace and plays on the right, so his covering for John Terry (isn't he world class?) would have changed everything, too.<br><br>For more than a month the English have been beating this old drum every chance they get. The manager is useless, the players are world class, and even if the sky is falling, they have youth to really take the world by storm, like Theo Walcott, Jack Wilshere, and Keiran Gibbs. (Ignoring the fact that these fantastic youth can barely get a game with their own clubs.) When anyone questions the party line they are shouted down, cut off, or told that they have never played at an international or club level.<br><br>If ignorance is bliss, why are the English so damn miserable?<br><br>As a public service, I have decided to inform the English what the rest of the world already knows...<br><br>1. Football is not your birth right, and even if it was, winning isn't. You didn't invent the game. The Chinese and Aztecs were having a kick-about with skulls long before you decided to separate soccer and rugby and write down rules. Once you accept you didn't invent anything, and that other people may know the game as well if not better than you, the rest will be easy.<br><br>2. English players are not "world class". Ashley Cole is your only player even in the conversation. Steven Gerrard peaked in Istanbul, and that wasn't exactly last week. Frank Lampard is consistent, but not world class. Wayne Rooney may be one of the most complete footballers on the planet, maybe not, but he hasn't put it all together yet when it matters most, meaning he isn't world class. John Terry and Rio Ferdinand may be the best center backs you have, but that doesn't make them world class, it just makes the rest of your center backs garbage cans. No one else in the England squad is even in the picture for 10th team World XI. Your players aren't world class. Get over yourselves. Drop the ego, play as a team, and accept your role in the new world footballing order.<br><br>3. Fabio Capello isn't a bad manager. With clubs, he could replace players not up to the highest standard by buying a replacement. With England, he can't do that. He has what he has. He got no more or less out of them than the talent available was capable of. They are a top 16 side, and if the sun shines on them, a top 8 side. Anything more would be a minor miracle. Just as putting silicone and a wig on a pig doesn't make it Dolly Parton, putting on the three lions doesn't make James Milner Sir Bobby Charlton.<br><br>4. If in the modern age any footballer is bored during the biggest sporting competition on the planet, their regular lives are probably hazardous to their health. Between television, computers, phones, gaming systems, books, and training, if you can't get by, you don't belong at the World Cup. And despite what Steve Claridge thinks, your manager is not a tour guide. Though for the record, Capello did try. While every other international side within hours of Robben Island took a day trip there to break up that awful World Cup boredom, to a man the English footballers didn't fancy the idea at all. Being a cultural and intellectual homebody, pining for a small damp island, meat pies, and the season finale of "Being Human" isn't a virtue. It's a national character defect. If an Italian can leave his mother for a few weeks, you can DVR the final "Jonathan Ross". The empire is gone, the Earth isn't flat, and the sun doesn't revolve around England. Adjust or continue getting passed by.<br><br>5. Despite what the pundits keep saying, a world class player can do more than one thing. Thierry Henry can be a lone forward. Thierry Henry can play as part of a strike pairing. Thierry Henry can play wide left. Thierry Henry has lifted the World Cup. Cesc Fabregas can come on for Xabi Alonso or Sergio Busquets. He doesn't need to play in his favorite position. He doesn't need to be a similar player to either of the men he can replace. All he needs to do is play football and cover a piece of space. Many see him as a replacement to Xavi Hernandez, though he doesn't play for Arsenal in the same space Xavi occupies with Barcelona. Why could he do it? Because he plays football. Cesc Fabregas has lifted the World Cup. The English mentality of "this is my space and the only bit of space I can play in" is farcical. It's beneath you to even suggest it. You have to be scraping pretty far down in the excuse barrel to even come up with it. If Steven Gerrard can only play as an attacking mid behind a lone striker, he needs to tell his manager that he is unable to play in any other formation due to lack of a footballing IQ and lack of footballing skill. To not do this would be selfish, and a detriment to the team. If Wayne Rooney can only play as a lone striker, he needs to recuse himself for the same reasons. (Though those who claim Rooney can only play as a lone striker also told us a few months back that Rooney only wanted to play with Emile Heskey.) If you can only play one way, or in one bit of space, you aren't a footballer, you are a poorly trained monkey, and surely not world class. Either you develop footballers, or you accept you are a second class footballing nation.<br><br>6. You aren't going to win the World Cup or the EUROs. That train left the station with the Charlton brothers, let alone the Nevilles. The Roman's thought they had a birthright to glory as well, and we all know how that ended. Or maybe you don't, being boring history and all. The Romans, from Italy, once conquered all the way to your tiny island. They lost it all before your empire even began or your royals realized it was a bad idea to marry your own cousin. (That means you too, Liverpool. I know you are the Arkansas of England, but the idea is to spread the genes out.) With realistic expectations, the heavens will no longer weep when you fail to win. When you accept that glory is your prologue and not the current chapter, things non-British may finally appear for you, and you will stop saying things like "I don't fancy Barcelona. They couldn't get a result at Hull on a wet Tuesday night." You won a World Cup on home soil back when air travel was risky, the Russians were a super power, and there was hope Prince Charles could still grow into his ears. At the World Cup stoplight, you are nothing more than the vagrant trying to wash the window of the eventual champion.<br><br>Accept these 6 simple points, and perhaps the losses will be less painful. You may even be able to build a new national identity based on reality, and change what needs to truly be changed. Don't heed my warning, and you can't get offended when I'm laughing hysterically when you start this all over again after falling on your face at the EUROs. If you even make it there.<br><br>The biggest problem for the English is the English themselves.<br><br>Until next time, enjoy the glorious football.<br><br>Find this article and more from Ryan, here:<br>http://www.gloriousfootball.com/premiership/the-fatal-flaw/
Ryan Rozelle
2010-08-11T16:00:00Z
World Cup 2014: The Future of U.S. Soccer, Part IV-The Big Picture
Cody Worsham
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/World-Cup-2014:-The-Future-of-U.S.-Soccer,-Part-IV-The-Big-Picture/167735277615870216.html
2010-08-08T22:00:00Z
2010-08-08T22:00:00Z
By Cody Worsham<br><br>This is the finale in a four-part series looking at the future of the U.S. Men's National Soccer Team. Click to read Part I-Defense, Part II-Midfield, or Part III-Forwards. You can also read more of the author's work at World Football Daily, Man Cave Sports, or Hammy End.<br><br><br>It's done, then.<br><br>All positions, all the big names-and a few no-so-big ones-covered fully and exhaustively. Sure, there may be some omissions (apologies, Steven Lenhart), but for the most part, the future of U.S. Soccer lies somewhere in the text of the first three parts of this series.<br><br>So why a fourth?<br><br>Two reasons: First, as we all know, there is a whole lot more to a team than the fielded player. Second, such a lengthy and prolix breakdown requires a bit of summarizing at the end.<br><br>Let's get on with it then, shall we?<br><br>Coach<br><br>Before the World Cup, many would have said that winning Group C and advancing to the knockout rounds would have been more than enough for the United States Soccer Federation to extend Bob Bradley's contract an additional four years.<br><br>But the style in which Bradley's boys exited the Cup coupled oddly with the fact that Bradley's name is popping up in European club circles may be enough to keep the USSF from re-signing their coach for another cycle.<br><br>It's funny that the same performance at this World Cup both disappointed USSF president Sunil Gulati and impressed European clubs. The disappointment can be seen in the fact that the U.S., in winning their group, put themselves in a prime position to advance to the semifinals, only to lose to a Ghana side that seemed beatable. Many have blamed Bradley's tactical decisions, namely starting Ricardo Clark and Robbie Findley, for the loss.<br><br>The impressive part of Bradley's performance was his ability to make in-game decisions that were necessary to salvaging results. When Clark was clearly struggling against Ghana, he was subbed off at just 30 minutes for Maurice Edu, who had looked impressive in previous appearances. His halftime substitution of Benny Feilhaber for Herculez Gomez pushed the U.S. into a 4-3-3, a formation which dominated an aggressive Ghanaian defense.<br><br>Many U.S. fans, the author of this article included, would wonder why Bradley didn't make these decisions before the U.S. fell into a one-goal deficit-a phenomena that seemed to happen in the first few minutes of every game, save Algeria (thank you, crossbar).<br><br>Still, despite some disappointing decisions, which Bradley correctly bit the bullet on, it's hard to argue against his results from the entirety of his run at the top of the USMNT.<br><br>First in CONCACAF qualifying, a Gold Cup title in 2007, a second-place finish at the 2009 Confederations Cup, and a gutsy showing in South Africa could be enough to renew his contract.<br><br>But I believe, firmly, that the USSF should look elsewhere for the next four years. I'm not the standard Bradley Basher, who hates his tactics and personnel decisions, but I do disagree with many of his decisions. That aside, coaches rarely do well on their second go-round-just ask Bruce Arena. A fresh injection of tactical ingenuity and perspective would do the entire national side a great deal of good.<br><br>Before I move on to the candidates, I have to express appreciation for Bradley's work as head coach of the<br><br>USMNT. The players clearly loved him, and while many didn't see eye to eye with his decisions all the time, he seemed to get the best out of players just when it was needed most.<br><br>Now on to the candidates. There are only two men in my mind for the job:<br><br>Jurgen Klinsmann and Peter Nowak.<br><br>Klinsmann was the candidate of choice last time the job was open, but contract negotiations fell through. Four years later, we're back where we started. Can we lure such a big name coach to our second-tier footballing nation?<br><br>I think we can.<br><br>Klinsmann has always expressed interest in U.S. Soccer and the backward philosophy that has driven it for so long. He knows the system well, having lived in America for several years now, and he knows the players, both young and old.<br><br>Klinsmann is the type of manager who could step in and change the way the USSF runs things-for the better.<br><br>The two downfalls to Klinsmann are his demands and his tactics. The same reason we failed to land him in 2006 may come to fruition again- control.<br><br>Klinsmann wants the power to change the pyramid of the USSF, and Gulati isn't keen on handing the keys over. In addition, Klinsmann is not a tactical genius by any means. He's much more of a player manager, and the USMNT might need someone more tactically astute moving forward.<br><br>In that case, though Klinsmann remains my first choice, it might be best to go after Nowak.<br><br>Nowak has worked in the USSF system for years, having assisted Bradley during his first years as head coach. Now with the Philadelphia Union, Nowak could be lured away for the right price, and his inclination to the 4-3-3 and its off-shoots could be the right tactical move for the U.S.<br><br>Still, is Nowak that much of an improvement on Bradley? I'm not sure yet, but remember in the context of this debate that no foreign manager has ever won a World Cup.<br><br>I'd still lean toward Klinsmann. There's a first time for everything, right?<br><br> <br>Gold Cup Starters<br><br><br><br>I don't think we'll see many changes for next summer's Gold Cup.<br><br>This is the same lineup that featured in the second half against Ghana. It's a 4-3-3 in base, but the Donovan and Dempsey will have free roam to drop into the midfield, operating on a string. Bradley and Feilhaber will be more forward thinking, while Edu is more defensive-minded.<br><br>Stuart Holden should see time in the midfield in place of Feilhaber, as should Jose Francisco Torres. Jermaine Jones could be a factor in the midfield as well, perhaps even replacing Maurice Edu for a short term.<br><br>Charlie Davies could see time up top if healthy, and with Jay DeMerit's club future in question, Chad Marshall or Clarence Goodson could start in his place at the back.<br><br>Steve Cherundolo and Carlos Bocanegra should enjoy strong seasons at their clubs and retain their starting fullback spots.<br><br>Tim Howard is a lock in goal.<br><br>Predicted finish: Champions<br><br> <br>Confederations Cup Starters<br><br><br>Should the U.S. win the 2011 Gold Cup, their birth in the 2013 Confederations Cup could see several changes in personnel.<br><br>Much of this depends on health and form during qualification, but based on current observations, this is the strongest side the U.S. could put forth in three years.<br><br>The shape begins to look more like a 4-2-3-1, the hot formation in international football. It's easily compacted for defensive unity or spread out for offensive continuity. It can be tentative or aggressive, and for the U.S., it puts players in their strongest areas.<br><br>The back sees a lot of change. Marshall is my current pick to be the next center back beside Gooch, but Tim Ream, Omar Gonzales, and Gale Agbossoumonde could all be factors, as could Spector. Jonathan Bornstein may be favored over Edgar Castillo, but I like Castillo's skill going forward.<br><br>Spector, if not in the center, starts on the right.<br><br>Bradley and Edu are back in their holding roles, with Edu likeliest to hold the deepest position. Donovan moves to a more central role but still has free roam-he, Dempsey, and Holden are virtually interchangeable.<br><br>Altidore remains a lone forward, with a hopefully-nationalized Danny Mwanga and healthy Davies pushing for minutes as well.<br><br>Did I mention Howard in net?<br><br>Predicted finish: Third place<br><br> <br>World Cup Starters<br><br><br>Assuming World Cup 2014 qualification for the article's sake, I don't see much change from the 2013 side.<br><br>The biggest change is the inclusion of Agbossoumonde in the starting 11. He'll only be 22, but he's already showing the ability to be a world class center back with his performances in the U-20 side.<br><br>The midfield sees no change, but Torres will still be fighting for time, as could Sebastian Lletget. Another product of the U-20s, he's impressing scouts at West Ham as one of their best youth academy prospects since Joe Cole. Just 17 years old now, he may not have matured enough physically to crack the first XI by 2014, but all bets are off when it comes to the kind of talent he's got.<br><br>Altidore holds on to his forward position, but any combination of Mwanga, Davies, or, dare I say-Freddy Adu-could challenge for time as well.<br><br>Howard will be better than ever.<br><br>Predicted finish: Third place
Cody Worsham
2010-08-08T22:00:00Z
MLS's Biggest Obstacle
Stephen Kuzner
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/MLSs-Biggest-Obstacle/324686020856357216.html
2010-08-08T17:00:00Z
2010-08-08T17:00:00Z
By Stephen Kuzner - WFD Fan Correspondent<br><br>When asked about what could make MLS better, the usual first and obvious answer is continued growth in talent on the field. But, the league's growth at least in terms of attendances face an obstacle often little talked about: that of having something for the teams at the bottom of the table to play for. It's great for MLS to have Seattle Sounders FC bring in an average of 36,159 a game, but the New England Revolution's 11,796 hurts.<br><br>Like the carrot and stick, there are 2 ways to motivate the bottom dwellers, either (1) have enough spots in MLS cup that most teams have chance to qualify for late into the season or (2) a promotion / relegation system.<br><br>The case study of this problem is DC United the past 4 years. RFK Stadium, once the bastion of MLS supporters has slowly dwindled in attendance. In 2007, DC United was ranked 1st overall in the table for MLS. That year they brought in an average of 20,967 at the gates. Their slip down the overall table in 2008 and 2009 to 10th brought down attendances to 19,835 and 16,088 respectively. This year dead-last at 16th overall, DC United is getting 14,949 a game. That's over 6,000 less people.<br><br>Like any sport, people come to games if you are winning. This is not rocket science. But, people also come if you have something to play for. In America, we have sports leagues where there is a surplus of playoff spots available, thus giving mediocre middle of the road teams an opportunity to get in. The NBA and NHL each have 30 teams and 16 playoff spots. More than half the teams get a rebirth in the postseason. The NFL has 32 teams and 12 playoff spots. MLB has 30 teams and 8 playoff spots. MLS has 16 teams and 8 spots.<br><br>MLS looks to expand to 20 teams in the next few years, but expanding MLS Cup beyond 8 spots will diminish its value. Last year's MLS Cup winners Real Salt Lake had a sub-50 record. This draws league format legitimacy into play. Granted the Columbus Crew won the Supporter's Shield, but in America we remember who won the big one. And the winner of the big one was not one of the better teams for the duration of the season.<br><br>For the long term credibility of the league, after the expansion to 20 teams, MLS's chief concern should be finding a way to implement a simple promotion / relegation system. MLS doesn't need this system because the rest of the world uses some form of it, but rather to give teams at the bottom of the table something to play for: survival.<br><br>The Top 3 teams at the top of MLS attendance are Seattle Sounders FC 36,159, Philadelphia Union 21,320, and Toronto FC 20,494. The league can't expect these attendance numbers to stick if any of these franchises has a fall like DC United because there's nothing to play for at the bottom. Seattle's attendance dropping to 14,949 would be catastrophic for the league.<br><br>In a perfectly symmetrical world, an MLS with 2 tiers of 16 teams each with promotion / relegation of 3 teams would be beautiful. In this world, you could have a survival playoff for the 4 teams at the bottom of the top tier, an MLS cup for the top 8 teams in the top Tier, and some form of playoffs between the top 8 teams in the second tier for the 3 promotion. That's 20 teams in a postseason playing for either: glory, survival, or promotion. Attendances would go through the roof.<br><br>In the long run, convincing its owners to implement a promotion / relegation system will be MLS's biggest obstacle.<br><br> <br><br>Please send any feedback to skuzner@gmail.com.
Stephen Kuzner
2010-08-08T17:00:00Z
The Future of U.S. Soccer, Part III-Forwards
Cody Worsham
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/The-Future-of-U.S.-Soccer,-Part-III-Forwards/-767644687768471167.html
2010-08-07T17:00:00Z
2010-08-07T17:00:00Z
By Cody Worsham<br><br>This is the third in a four-part series looking at the future of the U.S. Men's National Soccer Team. <br><br><br>Let's look at the numbers, shall we?<br><br>Four games over 15 days, 390 minutes (plus stoppage time) on the pitch, 23,400 seconds (+ s.t.), four strikers with 50 caps and 13 international goals between them-none of which were scored at the World Cup.<br><br>Of the players who made the trip to South Africa, the most disappointing group for the USMNT, collectively, were the strikers. Sure, there were positive moments from Jozy Altidore, Robbie Findley, Herculez Gomez, and Edson Buddle, but teams who can't get goals from their strikers can't win.<br><br>No, this wasn't the most talented group of forwards in South Africa, and no, expectations were not high for them. But when called upon to do their jobs, with chances at World Cup glory sitting in front of them waiting to be pounced upon, the four forwards selected by Bob Bradley to complete the 23-man roster failed to answer.<br><br>Looking to the future, the U.S. striker pool appears to have some bright spots, but there is much to build on after a goalless 2010 World Cup. As some return to health and others mature and develop, talent will undoubtedly emerge.<br><br>But talent isn't enough. There is a hunger and poise required of all great strikers, and someone will have to develop that in the next four years. Otherwise, it's same story, different chapter come Brazil 2014.<br><br>Let's take a look at the players available, broken down role by role-combo forwards, target forwards, and strikers/second strikers.<br><br>We'll start with the familiar names and work our way to the newer, fresher prospects to find out who can be expected to fill the need for goals.<br><br> <br><br>Combo Forwards<br><br>Clint Dempsey<br><br>In my last piece, I talked a lot about Clint Dempsey's future in the USMNT.<br><br>In 2014, Dempsey will be 31 years old. That's fairly old for an international footballer and probably just past his prime, but I see Dempsey making the move up top by 2014 as a forward or outright winger.<br><br>This move works for Dempsey for a couple of reasons. First, his game is built around creativity, not speed. Rarely does he blow by people even now. His creativity should go nowhere, though, even if he loses a step or two. Second, I expect the U.S. to move to a 4-2-3-1, which would allow Dempsey to move to a wide winger position in the mold of Dirk Kuyt.<br><br>Dempsey will probably be our best option out left if we go to the 4-2-3-1. He cuts in beautifully, and this is his natural spot for Fulham-opposite a similar player in Damien Duff, also 31 years old and still playing at a high level. He can also interchange with Jozy at the top of the formation, as the 4-2-3-1 can shift and look like a 4-3-3 or 4-2-1-3.<br><br>The versatility that Clint provides as an attacker cannot be overlooked. With a great deal of depth emerging in the midfield and a lot of question marks up top, expect Dempsey to begin seeing more and more time at striker in the coming years. He may have to stay in the midfield while the rest of the U.S. midfielders develop, but once they arrive, look for Clint to slide into a forward position permanently.<br><br> <br><br>Herculez Gomez<br><br>If this article were written a year ago and was instead a preview of who might make it to the World Cup, Herculez Gomez's name would certainly not have appeared.<br><br>Like time, money, and love, however, football can be a fickle thing.<br><br>Gomez rose from the pits of the MLS outcast pool to become the leading scorer in the Mexican Clausura for Puebla. His achievement put him right in the middle of the World Cup discussion, and a good pre-Cup training camp put him in the final roster ahead of surefire veterans Brian Ching, Connor Casey, and Eddie Johnson.<br><br>His time in South Africa was too brief, however. In the time that he did play, he played well. With Robbie Findley suspended against Algeria, Gomez started and had a good 45 minutes, putting a few shots in and assisting on an unfairly overturned Dempsey goal.<br><br>But for some reason or another, Gomez was not given much more time to shine. Known for his ability to score in a substitute's role, Gomez was only called on once more, in extra time against Ghana, and he failed to deliver there.<br><br>It was probably his last chance. Gomez is 28 years old, and while his rise from Kansas City Wizards reject to World Cup starter has been nothing short of incredible, there are younger-and better-alternatives. He even has admitted so himself in recent days.<br>He should feature in some qualifiers and friendlies for the next couple of years, but once he hits 30 years old, I imagine Herculez will have capped for the final time. <br> <br><br>Danny Mwanga<br><br>The question with Mwanga is not if he's going to be good enough to play for the USMNT-he already is.<br><br>The question will be whether or not he chooses his country of birth (D.R. Congo) or the country that housed him from civil war (United States).<br><br>Mwanga has taken the MLS by storm this season, emerging as a favorite for Rookie of the Year honors. The 19 year old has scored big goal after big goal for the expansion Philadelphia Union in their initial MLS campaign, and many are calling for Bob Bradley to cap him as quickly as possible.<br><br>Though he is not yet a citizen, he has a U.S. green card and a refugee travel document, both of which make it easier for him to get capped as a U.S. international.<br><br>He's also spoken highly of potentially playing for the Americans.<br><br>Mwanga offers a rare combination of size, speed, and skill, much like Altidore, and he seems to possess great intelligence. He perhaps bests Jozy in terms of his killer instinct, as seen in his ability to score clutch goals for Philly.<br><br>Let's hope Mwanga goes the U.S. route. He can develop into a target or a slashing forward, and he could even push Altidore as the top forward in the country if given a chance.<br><br> <br><br>Marcus Tracy<br><br>Tracy is one of those guys who gets a lot of hype on the Internet but hasn't seen the field for the U.S. That could change this year. With Charlie Davies' health still a concern and a lack of obvious depth in the pool, the former Wake Forest and current Aalborg striker may get a look soon. While he's not huge, at 6'1" he has enough height, and his leaping ability is unparalleled among his countrymen. Who else in the pool could do this ?<br><br>Honorable mentions : Macoumba Kandji, Justin Braun, Juan Agudelo, Stefan Jerome<br><br> <br><br>Target Forwards<br><br>Jozy Altidore<br><br>The future of the United States front line begins and ends with Altidore. There are others who will play important roles, but the broad shoulders of young Jozy must bear the burden of goal scoring going forward.<br><br>Don't get me wrong, Altidore wasn't bad by any means in South Africa. He gave defenses fits for most of his 360 minutes with an improved work rate and his creativity on the ball. His knock-down header to Michael Bradley for the equalizer against Slovenia was one of the biggest plays of his career.<br><br>But his scoring record speaks for itself. Jozy failed to put the ball in the back of the net despite several clear chances that he should have finished. It's the same problem he suffered from with Hull this year: Solid play but no production.<br><br>The good news is that Jozy has shown the ability over the last few years to improve his glaring weaknesses. The knock on him two years ago was his laziness and his inability to hold the ball up. He showed an incredible work rate at the Cup (he covered more ground per game than David Villa, among others), and he held the ball up with great affect, drawing more fouls than any other U.S. player and constantly hassling defenders with his strength.<br><br>The beauty of Jozy as a target is his versatility. He's clever on the ball and cuts inside effectively. He can make diagonal runs as well as anyone, and his best games for Hull were when he played beside Jan Vennegoor of Hesselink, a big target-man himself. In this way, he acts as almost a slashing center forward, versatile and capable of playing beside any other striker in the country.<br><br>If Jozy can find a place in Europe-perhaps Besiktas or Fulham-to get consistent minutes and work on his finishing, he can fulfill the vast potential he's sitting on. Villareal may not give him the time he needs, but a loan-to-buy suitor like Fulham, Besiktas, or Napoli would give him the chance to develop as he needs to. He could realistically become the best forward the country has ever seen, but he'll need time to find a killer instinct in front of net.<br><br>The sitters he missed in South Africa are going to have to be put away. Hopefully, they'll find the net in Brazil.<br><br> <br><br>Edson Buddle<br><br>Buddle's story is a lot like Gomez's. Few, if any, expected him to make the World Cup roster until his 2010 scoring explosion in MLS. Sadly, he saw very little of the field in South Africa, despite a pre-Cup brace against Australia and a top run of form throughout the year.<br><br>At 29 years old, Buddle's window is shrinking. He may get some time in the next year, but he faces the same aging problem as Gomez.<br><br>Of all the forwards available, Buddle plays the best with his back to the goal, and he is the strongest in the air. His connection with Landon Donovan is remarkable, so bringing him to camp and possibly to the Gold Cup might not be a bad idea<br><br> <br><br>Kenny Cooper<br><br>Cooper is as talented a target forward as we've got. The problem is, he doesn't know it.<br><br>Not that he's not talented-his ego has gotten him into trouble enough, certainly this year with Plymouth Argyle.<br><br>No, Cooper has yet to realize that he is a target forward. He fancies himself a combo forward, but he lacks the speed and shiftiness required to get around top-level defenders.<br><br>At 6'4" and 210 pounds, Cooper has all the size required of a solid target. He's clever on the ball, has good passing range, and he scores goals in bunches.<br><br>But he's still poor with his back to the goal. If Cooper can find minutes for 1860 Munich or another side on loan, maybe he can learn what he needs to as center forward. First, however, he'll have to wake up and smell the potential he's oozing with, all while brushing off an oversized ego.<br><br> <br><br>Omar Salgado<br><br>The former Chivas Guadalajara man was forced out after declaring his intentions to play for the U.S. Just 16-years-old, he will enter the MLS draft next year after signing on with Generation Adidas. Don't be shocked if the Whitecaps take the 6'4" speedster first overall after a solid run in leading the U-20 U.S. side to the Milk Cup championship. Could he be the next Altidore?<br><br>Honorable mentions : Yura Movsisyan, Brek Shea, Adrian Ruelas<br><br> <br><br>Strikers<br><br>Landon Donovan<br><br>Like Dempsey, Donovan may benefit from a move to a forward position.<br><br>In South Africa, Donovan was the finally the superstar we've long expected him to be, scoring three goals and playing true top-level football. The Algeria goal will go down in history as one of the biggest in U.S. Soccer history.<br><br>The only question now is where Landon will spend the next four years. European suitors are calling, but the MLS wants to hold on to him. Either way, I don't see Landon moving out of the national team in the next four years. He's just too valuable and will still be one of our best players in four years' time.<br><br>However, he will be 32 years old by the time Brazil 2014 rolls around. That's old enough to say he'll be past his prime and probably a step or two off his top pace. Perhaps playing up top would be best for his aging legs, and like Dempsey, the depth in the midfield could see a U.S. tactical change moving Donovan to a striker or trequartista role.<br><br>It's something to think about, but whether Donovan is flanked wide or in support up top, don't expect Landycakes to depart from the USMNT anytime soon.<br><br> <br><br>Charlie Davies<br><br>It was sad to see Davies not called into the pre-Cup camp in May, and his club deserve much of the blame for that.<br><br>However, even though Davies felt he was fit, he is an asset of the club, and they were protecting what is rightfully theirs. Current reports would seem to support that decision, as nearly three months later, Davies is still struggling to get to full fitness.<br><br>There's no doubt in my mind that a fully fit Davies would have had a great World Cup. His form in the Confederations Cup a year ago was superb, and it didn't drop off at any point prior to his injury.<br><br>But can Davies get back to that point? I'm not sure. Mentally, he's got it together, it would seem, and he's been working his tail off to get back the pace and stamina that made him invaluable beside Jozy. Physically, however, he still has an uphill battle to fight.<br><br>The best-case scenario for the U.S. would be Davies battling Altidore for first-team duty, with the loser being a super sub in a 4-3-3 or close variation. The worst-case scenario-well, let's deal with that if it ever rears its head.<br><br>It'll be important for Bob Bradley to monitor Davies' progression in the coming months. Minutes at Sochaux are up for grabs, so the opportunity will be there.<br><br>Hopefully for Charlie, he'll grab his second chance and never let go.<br><br> <br><br>Freddy Adu<br><br>The Freddy Adu saga has been beat to death. I won't add on to the train of Adu-based debates that can be found on forums all over the Internet.<br><br>Instead, I'll say this. Freddy is only 20 years old, and he's still as talented as any other American in the sport. No one can quite peg his problem, whether it's mental, physical, psychological, or some combination, but if it ever clicks for Freddy, watch out.<br><br>The wing is his natural place, so a 4-3-3 would fit nicely. Don't get your hopes up, but certainly don't take your eye off of Adu, wherever he ends up this season.<br><br> <br><br>Andy Najar<br><br>As is the case with Mwanga, Najar is having an explosive season in the MLS, lighting up the radars of scouts all over the world, including Arsenal.<br><br>Also like Mwanga, however, Najar is not a U.S. citizen, and while he has expressed interest in playing for the U.S., his native Honduras are favorites to land the services of the D.C. United phenom.<br><br>Never say never, however. Najar could go the route of Adu and Benny Feilhaber and join the ranks of foreign-born players who have suited up for the U.S.<br><br>Honorable Mentions : Eddie Johnson, Jack McInerney, Chris Pontius, Robbie Findley, Joseph Gyau<br><br> <br><br>Starters<br><br>2011 Gold Cup starters: Altidore, Davies, Dempsey (winger/wide forward hybrid)<br><br>2013 Confederations Cup starters: Altidore, Davies, Dempsey, Donovan<br><br>2014 World Cup starters: Altidore, Dempsey, Donovan, Davies<br> <br><br>***Note: For all articles, starters have been chosen based on who will get starts, not who will be in the set starting XI. Football has too many injuries and tactical adjustments to pick just eleven starters for a four-year period. Thus, the three starting forwards I have selected in this piece are those who I expect to start at least one game in the tournament they are fielded in.
Cody Worsham
2010-08-07T17:00:00Z
Landon Donovan to FC Barcelona?
Stephen Kuzner
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Landon-Donovan-to-FC-Barcelona/-775957185039310584.html
2010-08-05T17:00:00Z
2010-08-05T17:00:00Z
By Stephen Kuzner - WFD Fan Correspondent<br><br>Well it's the silly season so I figured I'd start some silliness. As of this writing, it looks like Cesc-gate will not end with Cesc Fàbregas in Barcelona until next summer at the earliest, so why not Landon Donovan to FC Barcelona? On the surface, this sounds kind of crazy, but would it be?<br><br>A key to Barcelona's depth the past few years was having players that can fill-in at a number of positions. Andrés Iniesta gets hurt more and more often. Although Xavi doesn't need a replacement for a year or two or three, some depth is needed. This short-term need for a little depth coupled with a long-term eventual replacement for Xavi is why Barcelona has become ob-Cesc'd.<br><br>The past few years, Barcelona had several youth players step-up and add some depth to the first team, i.e. Pedro and Sergio Busquets. Right now, I don't see one popping-up this year better than Donovan. Sorry Jeffrén Suárez and Jonathan Dos santos. There is a need for another player of this type in the near-term at Barcelona. Signing a flexible mid-fielder that can slot in at a number of different positions would come in handy this year.<br><br>Landon Donovan can fill this role. 14m-ish is workable for MLS and Barcelona.<br><br>I am I missing something here? Is Donovan not good enough to make it at Barcelona? Would Donovan be ok with being a squad player for the likely favorites for the UEFA Champion's League? Or would he rather be part of the starting 11 of a Premiership, Europa League or lesser Champions League side? Maybe, 14m would not be viable for the new penny-pinching Sandro Rosell-led Barcelona?<br><br>The thing is this is a short-term need, Donovan can fill it, and he probably could be signed at a price both teams could agree upon. In terms of the business that would have to take place, MLS and Barcelona are in a good place with the recent moves of Thierry Henry and Rafael Márquez to the MLS. There's a lot more conversation going on here than between Arsenal and Barcelona. The lines of communication are open and the there's plenty left in the 50M Kitty. This kind of move would also benefit the MLS publicity-wise in moving one of its players to a perennial UEFA Champion's League semi-finalist and winner. Plus, Donovan could be back in MLS in 2-3 years.<br><br>Donovan would fit well into the Barca rhythm of "Offer, Receive, Pass" and do it again, and again, and again. He's tidy, quick, and smart. His first touch would be up to the task. He can play on either side or up front. He even speaks Spanish. He's America's best and this may be his last chance for a big move since he is 28. The question is: Am I the only person thinking this?<br><br> <br><br>Please send any feedback to skuzner@gmail.com.
Stephen Kuzner
2010-08-05T17:00:00Z
The Future of U.S. Soccer, Part II-Midfield
Cody Worsham
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/The-Future-of-U.S.-Soccer,-Part-II-Midfield/-224326952450242624.html
2010-08-03T17:00:00Z
2010-08-03T17:00:00Z
By Cody Worsham<br><br>This is the second in a four-part series looking at the future of the U.S. Men's National Soccer Team. Read Part I in the WFD Kick About<br><br><br>Before the 2010 FIFA World Cup, Michael Bradley was coasting on the outskirts of international footballing prestige.<br><br>Funny how things change.<br><br>Bradley's performance in South Africa has rocketed him to the top of just about any list of top, young midfielders in the world. Just four years ago, he wasn't even in the conversation of top American midfielders, yet now he is one of the most coveted box-to-box players on the planet.<br><br>Of the changes certain to be made from this year's squad to the future 2014 squad, the midfield should see the easiest transition, built around the 22-year-old Bradley as well as a mixture of both young guns and experienced veterans.<br><br>The difficulty with discussing midfielders comes when you consider just how many formations there are and just how many roles a midfielder can be asked to play.<br><br>To simplify, I've divided the players into two categories. First are your traditional "box-to-box" guys-classic central midfielders like Bastian Schweinsteiger and Mark Van Bommel who are comfortable both holding and getting forward, but would never feature as true trequartistas.<br><br>The second division is for "attacking" mids, offensive-minded, advanced players who could play just behind the forwards-think Mesut Ozil and Wesley Sneijder-or on the wings, ala Arjen Robben and Thomas Muller.<br><br>Let's start with the central midfielders.<br><br>"Box-To-Box" Central Midfielders<br><br>Just 22 years old, Bradley turned in a magnificent quarter of performances for the U.S., grading out among the top players in the Cup in terms of Castrol Index-a measure of player performance analyzed by FIFA, which Bradley earned an 8.94 out of a possible 10.<br><br>More impressive, perhaps, is the distance Bradley covered in just four games: 51.69 km, which by itself is 11th-best in the Cup (mind you, the only players he trails have played at least one game more than him), while his 12.99 km per game bests any other player in the tournament.<br><br>That motor will be crucial in driving the U.S. midfield for the future, and Bradley is sure to be a fixture there.<br><br>What will be interesting to see, however, is where Bradley slots in for the U.S. in the future. Will his 26-year-old legs produce as much mileage as his 22-year-old legs? If so, he could maintain that box-to-box presence in the mold of a Schweinsteiger, but he is capable of playing a holding midfield role, as well.<br><br>I imagine he'll continue in the role which he so thrived in this summer, and Bradley is most effective in this role when he has a complementary holding midfielder. Ricardo Clark has been the main player in this role for the last two years, but his struggles in South Africa may have sealed his fate behind other players, and he will be 31 by the time the next Cup rolls around.<br><br>Maurice Edu, however, stepped in admirably for the struggling Clark. Edu has a calmness and strength on the ball that Clark lacks, and his play week in and out for Rangers indicates that he's the perfect companion for the roaming Bradley.<br><br>Edu is comfortable as the deep-lying midfielder sitting just in front of the defense, a position which allows Bradley to venture forward without having to worry about overrunning the play.<br><br>Clark's struggles, namely ball control and spatial awareness, are in fact Edu's strengths, and he's just as adept at breaking up play and winning aerial battles. <br><br>Perhaps the best thing about Edu-his age. Just 24 years old, he has a good five or six seasons left in his prime, so he and Bradley have plenty of time to acquaint in the coming years and gel into a real tandem.<br><br>Another name that has floated around the U.S. Soccer rumor mill is Jermaine Jones. Jones is one of the best defensive mids in the Bundesliga for Schalke, but he has yet to feature for the U.S. due to injuries. A dual German-American citizen, he has featured for the German national team in non-FIFA friendlies, but retains his eligibility for the U.S. thanks to FIFA regulations.<br><br>But, like Clark, age will be a problem, and at 28, his window to feature is shrinking daily. I wouldn't mind seeing Jones start at the Gold Cup in 2011, however, and he could be an answer at center back, as well.<br><br>Now, before we move on to the attacking midfielders, let's remember something crucial we learned from this Cup. From a tactical perspective, the U.S. showed something special against Slovenia, Algeria, and Ghana-the ability to play effective possession football with three central midfielders.<br><br>The most successful formation in international football today, 4-2-3-1 (implemented by Spain, the Netherlands, and Germany), utilizes three center mids, and going forward, the U.S. should look to this formation, or other variations like 4-3-3 or 4-1-3-2, as a possibility.<br><br>With that said, there could be a third slot for a starting central midfielder. This time around, it was Benny Feilhaber who came on and played a very narrow left wing-essentially a third CM. Feilhaber was good, but while he was an upgrade from the empty bucket 4-4-2, he wasn't great.<br><br>Feilhaber is only 25, so he's still in that frame of age to be a possible starter in Brazil at the 2014 World Cup. He can play any position in the midfield which the 4-2-3-1 calls for, but for a player who is supposed to excel at passing, he's not exceptional, completing only 63 percent of his attempted passes at the Cup.<br><br>If Bradley, a runner/roamer, and Edu, a holder/defender, are going to be tripled up with a third central midfielder, it needs to be a sharp passer, a breaker-down of defenses, a threader with patience and possessing skill.<br><br>In that case, Jose Francisco Torres is the man. While many felt he struggled in his start against Slovenia, Torres actually completed 83 percent of his passes-on a bad night. At his best, Torres is a passer of pinpoint accuracy, and he understands where to put the ball as well. He doesn't offer a whole lot in front of net, but if Edu is covering and Bradley is charging, he won't be asked to do anything but slide in through-balls.<br><br>Torres showed just how green he is against Slovenia, though. He'll need a few more seasons to fully develop, but I think he's a real bright spot for the future.<br><br>But, as always, the starters will probably change from game to game. Very few countries, if any, have the same eleven starters throughout qualification or even throughout a single tournament. It's about depth, and fortunately, the U.S. have that in all midfield positions, the central midfield not excluded.<br><br>For the sake of this article, then, I'll select three central midfielders (and three attacking mids later) so as to take into account different formations or strategic selections.<br><br>2011 Gold Cup starters: Bradley, Edu, Feilhaber<br><br>2013 Confederations Cup starters: Bradley, Edu, Torres<br><br>2014 World Cup starters: Bradley, Edu, Torres<br><br><br><br>Attacking Midfielders<br><br>For the last four years, the two attacking midfield positions (the outside midfielders of the U.S. 4-4-2) have been virtually set in stone. Unless called up top, Clint Dempsey lined up on the left wing with Landon Donovan his opposite.<br><br>No one can argue with the selections. The two are the most prominent players on the national team, with Donovan as its all-time leading scorer and Dempsey as its best performer at the club level. Both have excelled at the international level as well, with Dempsey netting the Bronze Ball Award in the 2009 Confederations Cup and Donovan scoring three times and displaying one of the best World Cup performances of any American player ever.<br><br>But there's one problem: Donovan is 28 years old, and Dempsey is 27. They will certainly feature in the Gold Cup next summer, and while they very well could find their way into the 2014 World Cup squad, they will have four more years of tread on their tires.<br><br>Just look at this year's squad for a reference point. The oldest outfield players on the squad, Steve Cherundolo and Carlos Bocanegra, were each 31, and the only players older than them, Tim Howard (32) and Marcus Hahnemann (38 on June 15), are keepers.<br><br>Thus, age will be an issue for both. If they can stay relatively healthy, perhaps they will still have enough gas in the tank to feature prominently. Dempsey is more likely than Donovan thanks to a) his age and b) his style of play.<br><br>Donovan is a speed player, notching a top speed of 30.31 kmh (one of the best rates at the Cup), but that number is likely to drop as he ages. Dempsey, on the other hand, relies more on strength and dribbling ability, skills that, if anything, improve with age.<br><br>But Donovan, as we know, has a motor and a heart that can overcome even Father Time. I expect he'll remain the right-sided midfielder for the U.S. through Brazil 2014, and the only ways he doesn't stay there are injury or position change. I could see him moving to a more central role or even up top if the U.S. changes their tactics.<br><br>Same goes for Dempsey. It depends on the strategy and manager of the future, but he'll be starting somewhere in this cycle.<br><br>As potent of a duo as they are, Donovan and Dempsey won't start every game on the wings. For one, both could thrive in central roles or as forwards.<br><br>Donovan is probably the better option centrally and does play like a true No. 10, but I can't see the U.S. deploying a lone forward yet, so his skill is better off on the outside. As for Dempsey, he often plays his best ball as a forward, and he may age better up top than out wide.<br><br>If either moves positions in the 4-4-2, or if the U.S. jump aboard the 4-2-3-1 bandwagon, there are a variety of names that could feature in advanced attacking roles with Dempsey and Donovan.<br><br>Of names mentioned already, Feilhaber's versatility could allow him to play in an advanced role, more likely in a central place. However, as I alluded to earlier, Feilhaber's versatility is as much vice as virtue. While he does a lot of things well, he doesn't do any one thing excellently, as I'm not sure how much he'll feature in this cycle.<br><br>Torres could also play an advanced attacking role, but he doesn't have much experience there. For club side Pachuca, he played a deep-lying playmaking role. Advancing him too far might take away his strengths with little gain. DaMarcus Beasley already seems too old, so that's all the mention I'll give him.<br><br>The brightest talent ready to step into a more prominent role for the U.S.M.N.T. might be Stuart Holden. Like Feilhaber, Holden is versatile enough to play on either wing or in the center of midfield. He's young enough (24) to be a factor in the next World Cup, and he offers better service and speed than Feilhaber does.<br><br>Holden's play in the last year since a great 2009 Gold Cup has been good enough for Premiership side Bolton Wanderers to sign him for the 2010-11 EPL campaign, and if he can find a place in the first team consistently, he might find a way into the starting 11 for the national team as well.<br><br>To keep this article from reaching David Foster Wallace levels of prolixity, I'll just list the last few names by location of play.<br><br>There are MLS guys: Sam Cronin, Eddie Gaven, Robbie Rogers, and Luis Gil (pay close attention to this 16-year-old at Real Salt Lake).<br><br>There are players who could play for multiple countries: Andy Najar, Michael Hoyos, and Mikkel Diskerud.<br><br>There is the next generation of young stars currently training for non-domestic clubs: Lester Dewee, Charles Renken, Jared Jeffrey, Joseph Gyua, Will Packwood, Erik Benjaminsen, and Sebastian Lletget. Of these, Lletget is my nod as a future star for the national side.<br><br>Finally, there are players on the brink of this year's squad who are plying their trade outside of the country: Alejandro Bedoya, Sacha Kleijstan, and the ever-controversial Freddy Adu.<br><br>One of the most interesting stories in this next international cycle will be Freddy Adu. Will he ever get it together? Can he still be an asset for the U.S.M.N.T.? Maybe there's a place for him in the midfield or as a second striker, but Freddy has as long a road to the top as any of these other names-maybe even longer. More on him later.<br><br>2011 Gold Cup starters: Donovan, Dempsey, Holden<br><br>2013 Confederations Cup starters: Donovan, Holden, Lletget<br><br>2014 World Cup starters: Donovan, Holden, Lletget<br><br>Before you explode with venomous outrage, chalk up Dempsey's absence to positional change-but you'll have to check out Part III for more on that.
Cody Worsham
2010-08-03T17:00:00Z
Elvis Explains the Transfer Market
Stephen Kuzner
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Elvis-Explains-the-Transfer-Market/-428163204063959992.html
2010-08-01T17:00:00Z
2010-08-01T17:00:00Z
By Stephen Kuzner - WFD Fan Correspondent<br><br>This silly season we have observed much talk and little movement. As Elvis would have put it, "a little less conversation, a little more action please"! Elvis would not be too happy about Cesc-gate. Why does the circulation in this transfer market seem so slow? When skySPORTs runs a "Top 10 Transfers of the Summer so far" article and it lists Thierry Henry at age 32 going to the New York Red Bulls, something is up. Shouldn't the transfer market after a World Cup be going bonkers?<br><br>This summer's transfer market will be known as the Mexican standoff. To figure out why, it may be better to look at the market on a micro-scale before looking at it on the macro. In negotiations, when two parties meet to discuss the selling and buying of a good, product, asset, etc. they come to the table will at least two things worked-out ahead of time: (1) their ideal price and (2) their walk-away worst-case scenario price. It you don't have a goal, you'll never hit your ideal and if the don't have a walk-away, you'll accept something beyond your means. These two prices create different ranges in which the buyer and seller will operate. Usually, deals are struck where these ranges intersect. The key thing to point out here is that these ranges don't necessarily have to intersect.<br><br>In this transfer market, at least for the good, great, and world-class players, sellers' minimal walk-away prices are higher than what most buyers can afford. How did it get to his?<br><br>There are a number of outlier signings the past few years that have warped people's perceptions of what players are truly worth. A few to mention would be Cristiano Ronaldo (94m), Kaka (70M), Zlatan Ibrahimović (66M), Carlos Tevez (£47m?), Robinho (42.5), Emmanuel Adebayor (£25). That group didn't win much silverware. What most clubs fail to realize is that if Cristiano Ronaldo is worth 94m to Real Madrid, it doesn't mean that James Milner is worth 20M+ to the other 99.99% of clubs. For less than the price of one Ronaldo, you can revamp much of a team and win the Champions League like Inter Milan did with Samuel Eto'o (30m), Wesley Sneijder (15m), Lúcio (7m), Diego Milito (25), and Thiago Motta (14).<br><br>Even though selling prices of players are inflated from a few outliers, clubs would probably still buy players at inflated prices if they could. This is not a good thing. Clubs are kind of like shop-aholics who can't stop spending if they have a credit card. The thing is right now, many clubs credit is overstretched. They are strapped for cash. Barcelona are probably not the only club with cash-flow or liquidity problems; rather they are the only club audited by Deloitte so a new President could reveal that his predecessor was running things in the red. If Barcelona who starts 6-7 players that came through their academy ran a 77.1m deficit last year, what do the books look like at Manchester United and Real Madrid?<br><br>Clubs having little to spend would explain why Mesut Ozil has not yet been signed. With Ozil you have a player that had a great World Cup, is 20 years old, a playmaker (which has gone back in vogue), and has 1 year left on his contract. If he is not sold this summer, Werder Bremen could miss-out on a lot of money next summer when he could move on a free-transfer. Ozil is a prime target and hasn't moved yet.<br><br>However, there is some light at the end of the tunnel to see a flurry of transfers in August. The new squad rules in Premier League that sides must have a first-team squad of no more than 25, of which eight must be 'home-grown', will force some teams to unload players hopefully creating some movement in the transfer market. There might be some discounts too because of this, particularly from Manchester City.<br><br>A quiet transfer market can be dull, but it really is a mixed bag. Less movement of players means that they'll stay with the same teams longer ideally creating more squad chemistry. On the other hand, if a team has a definite need at right-back, they may not be able to sign one. If teams hold-on to players longer, the Ajax's of the world, who are masters at developing players, could again become dominant once again, thus leveling the playing field in Europe. Conversely, the teams that will lose out are the Boca Juniors and River Plates of the world who develop players to be sold to Europe and find a dry market. Either way, I'd like my Silly Season to be silly. A little less conversation, a little more action please!<br><br> <br><br>Please send any feedback to skuzner@gmail.com.
Stephen Kuzner
2010-08-01T17:00:00Z
Magic Number 26 for the MLS
Stephen Kuzner
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Magic-Number-26-for-the-MLS/-214070062834166340.html
2010-07-30T17:00:00Z
2010-07-30T17:00:00Z
By Stephen Kuzner - WFD Fan Correspondent<br><br>There are a few things we need to look at when we look at the MLS's progress as a League. Attendances, expansion of teams, TV deals and ratings are important. They help us quantify the growth of the league. But, we need to take a look at the quality of what is presented on the field; aka a qualitative measure to MLS as a league. Ultimately what determines the quality of the product on the field is the quality of the players themselves. You hear it time and time again: bring the world's best to MLS and the American public will come-out in droves to the games. I don't totally buy into this argument, but it has some credence. Talent matters. More importantly, peak talent matters.<br><br>As Athletes evolve through their careers, they grow in sports-intelligence and skill and decline in raw athleticism as they age. In their mid-to-late twenties, between ages 24-28 years, athletes hit a peak balance of sports-intelligence, skill, and physical capabilities. This peak-zone can be seen if you look at the last 10 FIFA World Players of the Year. Their ages were the following: Lionel Messi (22), Cristiano Ronaldo (23), Kaká (25), Fabio Cannavaro (33), Ronaldinho (25) & (24), Zinedine Zidane (31), Ronaldo (26), Luís Figo (29), and Zinedine Zidane (28). The average age of this list was 26.6, close to the middle of 24-28 years.<br><br>The MLS has a way to go in terms of getting great players in the peak years. If we look at the MLS All-Star team we have the following Donovan Ricketts (33), Jamison Olave (29), Heath Pearce (25), Kevin Alston (22), Chad Marshall (25), Shalrie Joseph (32), Guillermo Barros Schelotto (37), Javier Morales (30), Marco Pappa (22), Sébastien Le Toux (26), Juan Pablo Angel (34), with an average of 28.6 years. Only three of these players are in their peak years. Further, Heath Pearce, Chad Marshall, and Sébastien Le Toux are hardly world-class. At this point, they'd make good squad players or start on mid-table teams in Europe's big leagues. Also, many in this group are a bit old or quite young.<br><br>The key to MLS's product on the field the next 10-20 years is to have more good, great, and eventually world-class players at their peak. There are a few ways this can happen. As the US develops players, the MLS needs to hold on to them longer in the beginning of their careers. Jozy Altidore leaving before he could have a legal drink in America was not a good thing for the talent level of MLS. Second, when the world-superstars of the world decide to do their farewell tour, i.e. Thierry Henry and David Beckham, the MLS needs to get them a year or two earlier. Although, Thierry Henry has a lot to contribute to the MLS, at age 32, he is about 4 years out of his prime. Finally, as the MLS continues to grow financially, the league eventually will be able to bring in good and great players at their peak.<br><br>The key to raising the level of play in MLS is a gradual approach to gaining and retaining talent. The league so far has progressed year by year in this capacity. A rising tide is not as sexy as a tidal wave, but incremental improvements are sustainable.<br><br>Landon Donovan has probably been the MLS's best player in its history. At age 28 now, if he take a move overseas he'll be a great player moving in reverse form the US to Europe at the end of his peak. In the short term, there likely will not be more Landon Donovans that stay in MLS because of financial reasons, but the league can hold onto the Kevin Alstons and Marco Pappas of the world a bit longer than they held onto Jozy Altidore.<br><br> <br><br>Please send any feedback to skuzner@gmail.com.
Stephen Kuzner
2010-07-30T17:00:00Z
The Future of U.S. Soccer, Part I-Defense
Cody Worsham
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/The-Future-of-U.S.-Soccer,-Part-I-Defense/625963577470750561.html
2010-07-29T17:00:00Z
2010-07-29T17:00:00Z
By Cody Worsham<br><br><br>With the U.S. 2010 World Cup run done and dusted after the first knockout round, most fans are taking a look back at the last four years-particularly the Cup's four weeks-to determine where U.S. Soccer currently stands in relation to the past.<br><br>That's all well and good, and certainly a function of the past is to teach us where to go in the future. But the doomsday prophecies I've been reading since the loss to a very good Ghana side are a bit melodramatic.<br>Don't be decieved-this World Cup was a positive one for the U.S. The objective all along was to get out of the group stages, which we did. But few expected the Americans to win Group C, which we did.<br><br>The tie against England intrigued the U.S. public, Maurice Edu's negated match-winner against Slovenia invigorated it, and Landon Donovan's winner against Algeria inspired it.<br><br>Certainly, Ghana was a winnable game, and the semifinals were there for the taking. In the grand scheme of things, however, the U.S. Soccer Federation should look at this Cup as a positive. U.S. soccer, thanks to massive ESPN coverage, got more positive media attention than it did even in 2002, when the U.S. was in the quarterfinals of the World Cup.<br><br>This series of articles, however, is more concerned with the future of U.S. Soccer, a one which, despite the outcry of the bandwagon media and public after the Ghana loss, looks quite bright.<br>Let's take a look at each area of the squad and determine what changes-if any-need to be made in advance of the big international tournaments before and including Brazil 2014.<br><br>All of these articles assume (for argument's sake, only) qualification for the Confederations Cup in 2013, as well as the World Cup in 2014, neither of which is a guarantee, of course.<br><br>Today's focus: defense<br> <br>The Old Regime<br><br>Of all the positions on the field, the U.S. Men's National Team will likely see the most turnover in the next few years defensively.<br><br>Just take a look at the starters' ages from the first two group games: Carlos Bocanegra (31), Steve Cherundolo (31), Jay DeMerit (30), and Oguchi Onyewu (28)-not exactly spring chickens here, folks.<br><br>Other than Gooch, I don't expect any of these to feature for the USMNT beyond the very near future. The 2011 Gold Cup is only a summer away, so a lot will depend on how these guys perform for their clubs next year.<br><br>Bocanegra is getting a fresh start at St. Ettiene, while Cherundolo, on the back of a wonderful World Cup, is set to sign a two-year extension with Hannover, with an option for a third. He also will become the club's captain. DeMerit, on the other hand, is out of contract, as Watford have yet to resign their former captain, but a good performance against England marking Wayne Rooney has piqued interest from Leeds, among others. Rumors are also circulating that DeMerit could return to the MLS as a DP, possibly to D.C. United or the Chicago Fire.<br><br>The only other defender to make a start in the Cup, Jonathan Bornstein, is only 25 and could be an option down the road. While he did well in his two Cup starts, he currently lacks the strength and skill of an international-caliber left back.<br><br>With so much up for grabs as the starts of the old regime enter the twilights of their respective careers, let's break down the possible replacements position by position, starting on the right.<br> <br>Right Back<br><br>The right back of the future for the U.S. is Jonathan Spector. A former Manchester United player, Spector is a regular starter for West Ham United in the English Premier League, and he was stellar in the Confederations Cup just a summer ago. Poor form down the stretch for West Ham and a surge from Cherundolo saw Spector go minuteless in the World Cup. Bob Bradley has seemed reluctant to play him at left back, though that's his regular position at West Ham.<br><br>Spector would seem to be the guy to build the defense around in the future. He has yet to hit his prime and offers creativity, service, and strong defense at right back, although his versatility could put him anywhere on the U.S. back line.<br><br>Daniel Williams could provide another young option at right back should he capitalize on his American eligibility (born in Germany to an American father), as could Eric Lichaj, only 21 and an Aston Villa defender who had a nice spell on loan for Leyton Orient this season. Frank Simek is only 25 and might be a player more familiar to U.S. fans, but he has done little recently for Sheffield and has been released by the club.<br><br>Other names that could emerge with enough success on the right side are Kevin Alston (22 years old, New England Revolution), Marvell Wynne (24 years old, Toronto FC), and Rodney Wallace (22 years old, D.C. United, but is not yet eligible since he was born in Costa Rica). Zarek Valentin is experienced in the U.S. system with 28 caps at the U-20 level, and the 18-year-old Akron star is an amateur player to watch for. <br><br>Cherundolo should hold on to his spot for another year or two, but it's Spector's job to lose beyond 2012.<br><br>2011 Gold Cup starter: Cherundolo<br>2013 Confederations Cup starter: Spector<br>2014 World Cup starter: Spector<br> <br>Center Back<br><br>In the center, Onyewu could possibly be a starter for 2014 (he would be 32, older than any player on the U.S. roster this go round), but he's definitely the go-to guy for the Gold Cup upcoming. While this World Cup run was forgettable for Gooch, who was benched the final two games, he will bounce back quickly. With rest for his injured knee, he should be our best defender henceforth.<br><br>If Gooch can get some time at A.C. Milan, who are known for keeping older players fit well into their thirties, he could definitely be a starter for the next four years. He still has some development to do, but there's no better place for him to learn than Milan beside Nesta and Thiago Silva. Playing time could be a concern, however, but he still seems the best option in the center for now.<br><br>The big question, then, is who plays beside Onyewu in the years to come? Eliminating Bocanegra and DeMerit, who may or may not play in next year's Gold Cup but most probably will not be starters longterm, there are several options, starting with Clarence Goodson.<br><br>Goodson has emerged on the USMNT scene in last 12 months as an athletic, lengthy player who offers great aerial ability and good agility. He's 6'4" and has looked good when featuring for the U.S., but he's 28. While he might be a starter short-term as DeMerit and Bocanegra age, two 32-year-old center backs will get us nowhere in 2014.<br>That leaves us with some younger players who are so far unproven but will have to step up. Among these are Chad Marshall, Gale Agbossoumonde, Omar Gonazles, Ike Opara, and Michael Orozco. Marshall has the most USMNT experience of the bunch and might have made the 2010 World Cup squad if not for nagging injuries. Agbossoumonde has been dubbed the next Onyewu, while Gonzales, Opara, and Orozco are among the best young central defenders in the MLS.<br><br>Then, of course, there are complete wildcards that could emerge from nowhere ala DeMerit, like Jamil Fearrington, Hunter Freeman, and Brandon McDonald, among others. Again, you'll notice a pattern here, but Spector is a likely candidate to play in the center should a right-sided player emerge.<br><br>One last note at center back: With the young depth of the U.S. central midfield (more on that in Part II)-namely Michael Bradley, Jose Torres, Benny Feilhaber, Stuart Holden, maybe Landon Donovan in an attacking role, and Sebastian Lletget-Maurice Edu could be a future center back for the U.S.<br><br>Edu was great in this Cup in the midfield, but he has played central defender for the U.S. before. If the Rangers give him some playing time in defense, it's a possibility worth considering until a younger option like Opara or Agbossoumonde is ready.<br><br>2011 Gold Cup starters: Onyewu, DeMerit<br>2013 Confederations Cup starters: Onyewu, Marshall/Edu<br>2014 World Cup starters: Onyewu, Agbossoumonde<br> <br>Left Back<br><br>Bocanegra has served the U.S. admirably, and his time on the national team is not quite done.<br>However, past next summer's Gold Cup and a couple of qualifiers and friendlies, Bocanegra has probably seen his last days as the U.S. left back.<br><br>Granted, if Bob Bradley sticks around, it's likely Bocanegra will remain captain and start either in the center or on the left. But the U.S. need to find a replacement going forward if we are to build on our international success.<br>Left back has always been a problem position for U.S. Soccer. More often than not, a former midfielder like Eddie Lewis or DaMarcus Beasley or a right-sided defender ala Frankie Hejduk has slotted in at the left, but it's been a long while since a natural left back was in the American defense. There was David Regis, but even he was a) French and b) a natural central defender.<br><br>Spector is again a possibility if Lichaj or Simek emerges as a starter at right back, but let's keep him out of the left back picture and look elsewhere.<br><br>The first and most obvious choice is Bornstein, a familiar face in the USMNT under Bob Bradley. The Chivas USA man has experience at all levels of international play and might move abroad after a solid couple of starts in the World Cup, but he has never been the most consistent player and was lucky to make the World Cup squad.<br>Unless Bornstein puts on some muscle and picks up some tactical awareness, I would stray away from him as a long-term starter at left back. Yes, he played well in the Cup, but he really didn't face an attacking winger. The last time he did-against the Dutch in March-he was embarrassed. I see him as a back-up or situational player and nothing more.<br><br>Heath Pearce is only 25 but seems to be on the downward slope of his career for FC Dallas, and this was probably his last chance to get in a World Cup squad. Beasley is old and has never done well at left back, and it's tough to come up with another name who has seen significant time on the left of the U.S. defense. Maybe Feilhaber could find a place at left back, but other than actually having a left foot, his skills aren't really suited there.<br>The best decision, then, might be to go outside of the familiar names to find the left back we are looking for, and the best selection would be Edgar Castillo.<br><br>Just 23 years old, Castillo is a dual United States-Mexico citizen and grew up playing in the Mexican youth ranks. However, passed over by Sven Goran Erikkson during 2010 qualifying, Castillo switched his allegiances to the U.S. and was capped in November 2009 against Denmark.<br><br>Castillo provides speed and skill from the back as a real attacking threat. Like Bornstein, he need to add some weight to deal with the superior strength of international wingers like Ronaldo, Robben, or Ribery. He's a real burner, however, and he gets forward like he's being chased. Currently on loan to San Luis from Club America, keep an eye out for him in the Apertura 2010 campaign.<br><br>A young name to watch for is Greg Garza, who plays for Sporting Lisbon and has featured for the U-20s. He can play on the wing or at the back and is a promising talent, but he's even greener than Castillo and doesn't provide much size at 5'8".<br><br>Outside of Castillo, Bornstein, and possibly Garza, there's not much talent for the U.S. left back pool. It will be crucial for one of them to develop into a quality left back, or else Spector may need to get comfortable on the left side and pray that a right-sided candidate emerges.<br><br>2011 Gold Cup starter: Bocanegra<br>2013 Confederations Cup starter: Castillo<br>2014 World Cup starter: Castillo<br> <br>Keeper<br><br>Two words: Tim Howard.<br><br>He's the present and the future of U.S. keepers. Brad Guzan will provide solid backup and will step into the starter's role one day, but it's Howard's for now and the future. This is one spot Americans will never have to worry about.<br>Yes, Howard is 31, but keepers enter their prime in their 30s, so it's looking good for Timmy.<br><br>2011 Gold Cup starter: Howard<br>2013 Confederations Cup starter: Howard<br>2014 World Cup starter: Howard<br> <br>Stay tuned for Parts II and III of this series looking at the future of the USMNT in the coming weeks. Part IV will appear just before the Brazil friendly in August.
Cody Worsham
2010-07-29T17:00:00Z
O'Neill backs Young
Tom Mallows and Betfair's View
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/ONeill-backs-Young/350191198339542563.html
2010-07-28T17:00:00Z
2010-07-28T17:00:00Z
By Tom Mallows - <br><br>With Jamie Milner's future looking increasingly likely to be away from Villa Park, those who <a href="http://news.ladbrokes.com/en-gb/football/premier-league/premier-league-betting.html">bet on Premier League</a> transfers are now stating that Martin O'Neill now faces a battle to keep Ashley Young at the club.<br><br>Over the past year, some of the Premiership's big boys have been sniffing around the winger. With Milner leaving the club, O'Neill won't entertain the idea of Young departing. Many didn't think Young enjoyed the best of campaigns last season. It was always going to be difficult to fulfil expectations after he was awarded 2008/09 PFA Young Player of the Year. That season cemented Young's reputation as one of England's best young prospects.<br><br>O'Neill has stated he believes Young was one of his players of last season. The winger was unlucky not to go to the World Cup. England didn't have many options on the left side of midfield, in South Africa this summer. Young would have given them something different. He is a different kind of winger to Milner, Aaron Lennon and Shaun Wright-Phillips. His crossing is one of his strong points, England seriously lacked quality delivery at the World Cup. The omission may work in Villa's favour; Young will be out to prove Fabio Capello wrong this season.<br><br>The ex Watford player has stated his desire to remain at Villa Park. It's unlikely any of his suitors would be able to match Villa's valuation of the player. With Villa expected to receive close to £25million for Milner, O'Neill will be under no pressure to sell.<br><br>Those who <a href="http://news.ladbrokes.com/en-gb/football/championship/championship-betting.html">bet on Championship</a> football will even tell you that Milner should be the only big name to leave Villa as O'Neill looks to bring Champions League football to the Midlands.
Tom Mallows and Betfair's View
2010-07-28T17:00:00Z
Summer Friendly's, Thierry Henry, & MLS Attendances
Stephen Kuzner
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Summer-Friendlys,-Thierry-Henry,--MLS-Attendances/-903269202656825728.html
2010-07-25T17:00:00Z
2010-07-25T17:00:00Z
By Stephen Kuzner - WFD Fan Correspondent<br><br>It's that time of the year on the soccer calendar when MLS, European Club tours to the US, and the Europe's silly season get the headlines. Now is the time to take stock on where soccer in America is going, primarily the MLS. The Men's National Team will always be centerpiece of soccer in America, but its lifeblood comes from the MLS.<br><br>In 2010, the MLS has averaged 16,517 per game. The big question for the summer and fall is whether MLS will get a sustainable attendance bump from this year's World Cup. The tempting thing to do is to say it will get a bump when you consider the ratings ESPN got for its World Cup coverage outside of the US Team. However, when you consider we are in the beginning of slow economic recovery after a major recession, a growth in MLS popularity may be better reflected in a leveling-off for a year or two in attendance.<br><br>The near targets for the MLS to pass are the NHL at 17,070 per game and the NBA at 17,149 per game. A bump of only 1,000 would do this. However, the MLS passing the NHL and NBA in average attendance would be more of a headline than a reflection of MLS being bigger than the NHL and NBA because in total attendances (NHL's 21,236,255 and NBA's 21,389,899) the MLS lags far behind at 3,608,359 as discussed a few weeks ago. The number the MLS really should be hoping for is not 17,000 or 18,000, but 20,000+ in 5-10 years. At that point, say in 2020, an MLS of 20 teams and an average attendance over 20,000+, the MLS would be a legitimate 3rd rival to baseball and the gridiron, poised for rapid growth after the 2022 World Cup hopefully hosted in the US.<br><br>What should we make of the tours that the top European Clubs use in the summer to fine-tune before the start of the club seasons? We can gather two things. First, when the world's top clubs can sell-out gridiron stadiums in the 60,000-100,000 capacity range, it means the market for soccer in America can be as large as anywhere if the MLS gets its talent to that level or at least to be perceived at that level. The 20,000+ mark is attainable. The second thing we can gather is the relative talent level of the MLS. When you see Manchester United play the MLS All-stars, you'll get to see a top 4 or 5 European Club play the MLS's Best 11 in a preseason warm-up for Man U. We can't take it for anything more than that, but we can get a relative idea of the talent level of the players on the field. The same will go when UEFA Champions League Winners, Intermilan, play FC Dallas and LA Galaxy later this summer. The talent level of the MLS seems to be incrementally increasing every year.<br><br>Thierry Henry's move to New York Red Bulls would be a great symbol of this gradual increase of MLS's talent. Henry has more gas in the tank than David Beckham had a few years ago when he came to MLS. Although, he no longer is at his peak, Henry still has something to give a top flight European team. Instead, he is coming here. With Henry you have someone that has won a World Cup, European Championship, an Undefeated Title in England, and a Six-tuple at FC Barcelona. The way it looks is the last thing for him to do is conquer America the way a rock-band would. The best part may be that he wants to not just play for the New York Red Bulls, but represent them as a New Yorker.<br><br>Please send any feedback to skuzner@gmail.com.
Stephen Kuzner
2010-07-25T17:00:00Z
Cesc & Barca, A Love Story of Tapping-Up
Stephen Kuzner
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Cesc--Barca,-A-Love-Story-of-Tapping-Up/-859098051412407713.html
2010-07-22T17:00:00Z
2010-07-22T17:00:00Z
By Stephen Kuzner - WFD Fan Correspondent<br><br>Thursday July 22nd was the first day in awhile I didn't see anything related to FC Barcelona's courtship, tapping-up, tampering or whatever you have it of Cesc Fàbregas. My skySPORTS Ticker on my laptop empty of Cesc/Barca gossip? This is when I realized I was more interested in Cesc's courtship than Barcelona actually signing him. This silly season hasn't been one of outlandish signing rather one of a silly seduction of an entire team to one player. You couldn't make this stuff up.<br><br>Before we get to this love story, lets go to the all-knowing decider of definitions, Wikipedia to define tapping-up. It states, "tapping-up is an attempt to persuade a player contracted to one team to transfer to another team, without the knowledge or permission of the player's current team." From this definition it's really tricky say whether Barcelona is tapping-up or not. They certainly are attempting to persuade Cesc to transfer to Barcelona. There are very few Barcelona players who haven't done this publicly the past few weeks. Arsenal undoubtedly is aware of their public affection for Cesc. But, is Barcelona's courting of Cesc with Arsenal's permission? This question may be more gray than it seems at first. Arsene Wenger has made it clear he doesn't want to sell, but why then has Rosell said Barcelona won't pay 50. This sounds like there was a price discussed.<br><br>It may be better not to get caught up in the concept of tapping-up at all. In the end, there has to be a buyer, a seller, and some communication. Anything outside of a formal transfer request and a formal bid by a buying team could be deemed tapping-up. Such a black and white definition would prohibit normal human communication. In the real work world, it's called giving a two week notice to move on to something better. However, sports isn't the normal world.<br><br>As of this writing, Cesc has not put in a formal transfer request. Why? He has loyalties to both teams. He wants to move-on according to his cryptic public statements, but probably wants to keep Arsenal in a good place with the transfer fee. He's stuck in the middle of a Mexican standoff where each side really does not want to budge on what they deem is a fit and proper price; hence the crazed courting of Cesc as leverage.<br><br>Some of the things Barcelona have done in this courting are truly audacious: Puyol and Pigue putting a Barcelona jersey on Cesc during a world cup celebration of all places in Madrid, Xavi saying that if Cesc doesn't transfer this summer he'd really be on loan at Arsenal, this, the day after Barcelona sporting vice-president Josep Maria Bartolomeu says they need to repair relations with Arsenal, and long-line of Barcelona players that have made a public statement about their affection for Cesc over the last two months. Arsenal supporters have right to be upset simply from the shear number of these public displays of affection for CESC. We'll call them PDAC's.<br><br>Tomorrow's Friday. What will be on my skySPORTS Ticker? It's a safe bet to see another episode of Barca, The Cesc-less.<br><br>Please send any feedback to skuzner@gmail.com.
Stephen Kuzner
2010-07-22T17:00:00Z
No Wonder You're Tired
Premium Subscriber Email from Greg in Minneapolis
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/No-Wonder-Youre-Tired/-927190305983517375.html
2010-07-19T17:00:00Z
2010-07-19T17:00:00Z
Hi Steven,<br> <br>Your coverage of the World Cup was fantastic, I loved every minute of it. But I was wondering, how fantastic was it? So I did some anoraking to compare WFD's coverage of the World Cup with some of the other podcasts out there. Here's approximately how they stack up based on available episodes on iTunes:<br> <br>Totally Football and The Game each came in at around 5 ½ hours of coverage. Chapper's Premier League Podcast posted about 7 ½ hours of coverage. ESPN's Off the Ball put out about 20 hours of World Cup coverage, but they get special mention for what I thought was fantastic TV coverage of the games.<br> <br>Taking a big jump is World Cup Buzz with 34 ½ hours of coverage, BUT...topping the list...with a mind-blowing 64 ½ hours of quality World Cup coverage is the football journalism juggernaut known as World Football Daily. To put it in golf terms for Kenny, that's like Tiger Woods winning the British Open by 15 strokes, and then shagging 47 women in the clubhouse afterwards. If anyone tells you that you don't deserve some time off, tell them to get stuffed.<br> <br>Keep up the good work and enjoy the rest of your summer. Cheers!<br> <br>Greg in Minneapolis
Premium Subscriber Email from Greg in Minneapolis
2010-07-19T17:00:00Z
Barcelona, The Silly Season, & Rosell
Stephen Kuzner
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Barcelona,-The-Silly-Season,--Rosell/860287672533690648.html
2010-07-18T17:00:00Z
2010-07-18T17:00:00Z
By Stephen Kuzner - WFD Fan Correspondent<br><br>So far this summer for Barcelona and world soccer, this has been the not so silly season. But, we still have well over a month for Real Madrid, Chelsea, and Manchester City to make something of it.<br><br>At this point, the Cesc Fàbregas transfer saga has come to a close for at least this summer. Barcelona will not move from 35 million they offered and Wenger now seems adamant not to sell. The 50 million kitty that Sandro Rosell says that Barcelona has to spend also does not suggest an urgent need for Cesc and a sticking price of 35 million for Cesc even if Barcelona sells more players. Barcelona doesn't need Cesc to replace Xavi just yet, but its coming quick.<br><br>Sandro Rosell's first few weeks running Barcelona have set a tone of financial responsibility and transparency. On the surface this looks like a good thing, but it does come with an underbelly. Revealing what you have to spend is like showing your cards to potential buyers and sellers. In negotiations, much like poker, you need to keep as much information to yourself as possible. However, letting others know your kitty and sticking to it over time can lower prices you buy at. The potential pitfall being that your selling prices could diminish as well. In the case of Barcelona, lowering selling and buying prices of players in the whole market works to their advantage because everyone wants to go there.<br><br>Rosell has done well in establishing himself as the anti-Perez president in that he is preaching and exercising financial discipline instead of mortgaging the home for former world player of the years. If he can do this as well as win trophies for Barcelona, he'll be greatly revered not only by Barcelona, but by the world of soccer.<br><br>How will Madrid react to Barcelona not signing Cesc and capping its spending at 50 million? Will this stem a spending spree like last summer by Madrid? Madrid has already signed Angel Di Maria and Pedro Leon. Di Maria will make an already devastating counter-attack even more so. 25 million was not terribly too much. Leon from Getafe for 10 million gives Madrid another attacking winger. This is a much different summer than last with Madrid sold Arjen Robben at 25 million and Wesley Sneijder at 15 million.<br><br>Who else? Carlo Ancelotti says Ashely Cole will not move, Intermilan wants 60 million for Maicon, and Stuttgart insists that Sami Khedira will not move. Who is Mourinho going to bring to the Bernabéu this fall? Bastian Schweinsteiger, Ramires, or Mesut Ozil? In this not-so silly summer, it's hard to tell.<br><br>And, what will happen with Barcelona's 50 million kitty? Rosell said that the sales of Dmytro Chygrynskiy and Yaya Toure offset the purchase of David Villa. After the signing of Adriano from Sevilla at 13.5 million, there's about 36 million left. Adriano at left-back gives Barcelona a player in his prime that should fit in with the Barcelona system. Look for Barcelona to sign another Sevilla or Valencia player. They like to sign pairs of guys from the same team. Maybe Juan Mata will follow Villa to Barcelona and a defender from Sevilla? It's strange that David Villa's signing already feels like it happened last summer. Oh, that's right. Spain won the World Cup, not Barcelona.<br><br>Please send any feedback to skuzner@gmail.com.
Stephen Kuzner
2010-07-18T17:00:00Z
Maybe America Already Was A Footballing Nation?
Stephen Kuzner
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Maybe-America-Already-Was-A-Footballing-Nation/498548878248603698.html
2010-07-15T17:00:00Z
2010-07-15T17:00:00Z
By Stephen Kuzner - WFD Fan Correspondent<br><br>I am sick and tired of all the "is America ready to embrace soccer" or "will America finally become a Footballing Nation" nonsense that comes with a World Cup and following spike in soccer's popularity in America. America already had embraced soccer and was a Footballing Nation prior to 5 weeks ago.<br><br>Let's go back in time 4 years ago. In the 2006 FIFA Big Count of people playing soccer in the world it was estimated that 265 million or 4% of the world played soccer. The USA clocked in at #2 with 24 million people according to FIFA, double the average in the world. So at least in terms of participation the USA was and is a Footballing Nation. However, participation does not mean popularity or the following of sport. The cliché is Americans play soccer and watch the Gridiron. How accurate is this cliché? We can look at two things: attendances and TV ratings.<br><br>If you travel further back in time to 1994, we have the most attended World Cup in history. Where? The USA. We shouldn't forget this. When the rest of the world questions the USA's place in the world of soccer, I'd like to remind them of 1994. To host the World Cup, the US had to create is own league. MLS was founded in 1993 and hosted its first season in 1996. Here at soccer's 3rd birth in the USA (ASL and NASL are another story) we can see two measuring sticks for soccer's popularity in the USA: the International Team and the MLS.<br><br>How big has the MLS become? By 2009, it had the 24nd highest average attendance for all sporting leagues in the world at 16,037 per game and 3,608,359 total. However in soccer the MLS checks-in at #12. Right behind the US is the Scottish Premier League 14,915 per game and 3,400,567 total. Let's think about that. We hosted the most attended World Cup, have the 12th most attended league, and play soccer at double the rate of the rest of the world. This should put us on the map in the world, but does it put us on the map in the American Sporting Landscape?<br><br>How does the MLS stack up against the NBA and NHL? In average attendance the MLS's 16,037 per game compares well with the NBA's 17,390 per game and the NHL's 17,265 per game. The MLS falls well short in total attendance at 3,608,359 compared to the NBA's 21,389,899 and NHL's 21,236,255. MLS has a way to go to catch the NBA and NHL in total attendance, but bridging this gap in a generation or two may be possible if MLS continues to slowly grow.<br><br>The attendances in the 60, 80, and 100,000 ranges for international and club friends in the summer months would indicate a thirst for soccer on a large scale in America. Also, the large number of channels that broadcast soccer-related content can be a bit staggering. You have Fox Soccer Channel, Fox Soccer Plus, Gol TV, Telemundo, Telefutura, Galavisión, ESPN Deportes, Fox Sports en Español, ABC, ESPN, ESPN2, ESPN Classic, and Comcast. At least these are the ones I know of. Soccer is available like never before in America. To quantify the amount of coverage overseas leagues get in America would be too much for this article. Regardless, the USA has a market for soccer consumption that ESPN finally started to realize was there.<br><br>What about TV ratings? The previous highest rated soccer games were 1999 Women's World Cup final at 18 million viewers, the 1994 World Cup final at 14.5 million, the 1994 World Cup Second-round match between the USA and Brazil at 13.7 million, and the 2006 World Cup Final at 12 million. How do these games stack-up to the NBA? What about a Game 7 of the Lakers vs. Celtics in 2010 NBA Finals? This Game 7 a few weeks ago got 28.2 million viewers.<br><br>This World Cup, the USA-England got 12,956,000 viewers, USA-Ghana got 14.863 million, and the Spain-Netherlands final got 24.3 million on ABC and Univision. Ratings-wise, the US Soccer does very comparable to the NBA a least in the big games. What would the rating be if the USA ever got to the Semi's or Final of a World Cup?<br><br>Does the USA measure up against England in viewership? Interestingly enough the USA does. The combined coverage of ABC and Univision Spain-Netherlands final of 24.3 million was about 6 million more than the combined coverage of BBC and ITV at 18.4 million. Yet, we still have to take these numbers with a grain of salt being that the USA's population is about 6 times that of Britain at 309 million to 62 million. Nevertheless, more people watched the World Cup final in America than in Soccer's birthplace.<br><br>These World Cup numbers would quantitatively confirm the USA as a definite Footballing Nation. And just as important, the ESPY award for "Best Moment" going to Landon Donovan in the World Cup vs. Algeria culturally validates American-Soccer's place in America's and the World's Sporting Landscape. We've been a Footballing National a little while now. Just a little while. The question now is, when does American become a soccer-obsessed nation?<br><br> <br><br>Please send any feedback to skuzner@gmail.com.
Stephen Kuzner
2010-07-15T17:00:00Z
Spain's WC Tactics, Anti-Football, & Beauty
Stephen Kuzner
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Spains-WC-Tactics,-Anti-Football,--Beauty/976570374581196748.html
2010-07-11T17:00:00Z
2010-07-11T17:00:00Z
By Stephen Kuzner - WFD Fan Correspondent<br><br>Spain just won the World Cup scoring only 8 goals and conceding only 2. How did they do this? The answer to this question lies in the never-ending debate about beautiful soccer vs. effective soccer, or in more evocative terms positive football versus anti-football.<br><br>Spain and the Netherlands both played 4-2-3-1 formations, but very different styles of play. Spain used a possession style offense and pressing defense. Essentially, they took part of FC Barcelona's style of play (I assume because they started 7 FC Barcelona players), namely possession and pressing in numbers, and implemented it in 4-2-3-1 instead of a more attack-minded 4-3-3. The Netherlands played a more cagey pressing counter-attacking style from the same 4-2-3-1.<br><br>Let's define what possession means in soccer. As an FC Barcelona supporter, I've felt over the years that when I heard people say we played the right way, i.e. beautiful football, that they didn't really understand what was going-on. Yes, Barcelona plays an attack-minded 4-3-3, but possession lied at the heart of the philosophy. Simply having the ball and passing it around whether it be directly forward, laterally, or back had many advantages. On one hand it tires your opponent physically, mentally, and emotionally. And on the other hand, it builds up your confidence, precision, rhythm and momentum. This possession game has the same effect on opposition as the short-yardage running game in the gridiron, working the body in boxing, playing small-ball in baseball, and making more than the extra pass in basketball. Possession more so sets up the attack than actually being on the attack. Iniesta's goal in the 115th minutes was the total accumulation of this style of play. The dam finally broke.<br><br>As much as I love the possession game and would use and teach it if I coached, it is not necessarily the de-facto best style of play. Holding back and counter-attacking can be just as effective. This style guarantees acres of space to run into once you eventually win the ball back. Twice, Arjen Robben had two golden opportunities on the break that were squandered. It just depends on your personal, execution, and it Robben's case a little luck. Possession means moving a lot of people forward slowly so you can out-pass your opponent because of superior numbers in an area of pitch. This requires extraordinary technical skills. Holding back and counter-attacking requires better overall defensive skills and speed. A completely direct approach like Arsenal can be effective as well.<br><br>Possession does not mean beauty. They are not synonymous. Is connecting 30 passes in a row beautiful if half of them are backwards or lateral? I'd guess that half of people would say yes and the other half would say no. As much as I loved seeing Spain connect a zillion passes, it probably was because I was rooting for them. To the person who is rooting against Spain, the short-passing possession game may have seemed like a cheap game of keep-away. So what is beautiful soccer?<br><br>Beautiful soccer is really how successful you attack. In the end it's about goals. The goal can come at the end of 30 passes through a possession game or a counter-attack after repeated absorbed blows. The goal can also come through a direct attack as well. Any system that attacks effectively will be viewed as beautiful. I had to stomach it, but Intermilan's defeat of FC Barcelona was beautiful. Ouch, it hurts to write that!<br><br>It may be easy to define a team's style of play as either positively or negatively charged like an atom or some subatomic particle. The positively-charged teams make more direct forward passes and deploy more players up the pitch when out of possession. The negatively-charges teams make more backwards passes and keep more players defending at home in their side of the pitch. This really seems like a silly way to define teams as negatively or positively charged, but it seems to be how people do it. In these terms, Spain is probably neutrally charged because of all the lateral and back-passes.<br><br>However, to define a team as negative or positive misses the point. It also seems kind of bi-polar as well. We don't live in a black and white world and like a reflection of life; soccer has a lot of gray areas. Football can be viewed in many hues including beautiful as defined above, effective (i.e. winning), or as anti-football. What is anti-football?<br><br>First, let's define what anti-football is not. Anti-football is not throwing 10 men behind the ball and hoping for a fluke counter-attack. That might be a team's only legitimate chance against a superior opponent. Anti-football is not defensive football. Anti-football also is not negative football as discussed above.<br><br>Anti-football is a strategy of stopping your opponent or gaining an advantage over your opponent through deliberate breaches of the rules of the game.<br><br>This could include diving, play-attacking, jersey grabbing, and a host of other infringements that could get you a yellow or red card. What it means most is fouling as a strategy. Fouling as a strategy to stop your opponent means you are out-classed tactically and personnel-wise. A lot of people around the globe say that if you gain your team an advantage from fouling diving, etc., you are doing the right thing for your team. That it's really street-smart; especially if you don't get caught. Even if you do get caught and get a yellow or red card, as long as you won its ok. This is absolute rubbish! This same logic would be like saying it's not breaking the law when you commit a misdemeanor, but its only breaking the law when you are convicted of felony.<br><br>Anti-football is not clever. It's cheating.<br><br>Unfortunately, anti-football can not eradicated by changing the rules or even a referee individually in a game. How can you manage 29 fouls? Howard Webb's job was impossible. Video technology won't help either with 14 yellow cards being issued. Would you want to see 14 minutes of stoppage time added? Although, video and goal-line technology would help with other things. Soccer is a simple game with simple rules; a game that reflects the human-condition and not a fairness utopia like the American Gridiron. The truly great teams will still win through bouts with anti-football. However, Anti-football can be slowed down by pressure from soccer's culture, namely the coaches, fans, and press. Anti-football starts with the coach using it as a strategy. It can also end there.<br><br>The Netherland's problem was the fouling. They committed 28 fouls, 8 yellow cards, and 1 red card. When you are solely concerned about stopping a team, how are you going to go forward? Spain wasn't too much better with 19 fouls and 5 yellow cards. Fouling spoils the game and turns it ugly.<br><br>This World Cup final came as a mixed-bag. Spain won their first title, the seven winning countries became eight, and we saw a lot of drama. Unfortunately, we also witnessed a lot of anti-football in the final and have a World Cup winner that for the first time lost a game in the group phase and only scored 8 goals in 7 games. Spain may not have been beautiful, but they were effective. For me, as an FC Barcelona supporter, this World Cup Final will be remembered for when Xavi, Iniesta, and Puyol became soccer's ultimate winners having won this World Cup, the Euro's two years ago, and FC Barcelona's six titles a year ago. In the end, winning is always beautiful.<br><br>Please send any feedback to skuzner@gmail.com.
Stephen Kuzner
2010-07-11T17:00:00Z
Puyol's Samson-esque Hair & 10 Things Spain
Stephen Kuzner
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Puyols-Samson-esque-Hair--10-Things-Spain/-727668519651450636.html
2010-07-08T17:00:00Z
2010-07-08T17:00:00Z
By Stephen Kuzner - WFD Fan Correspondent<br><br>With Spain's win over Germany we have our second finalist for the World Cup. Here are 10 things Spain, starting with Carles Puyol's gorgeous noggin.<br><br>uno<br><br>Like the Biblical narrative of Samson, Carles Puyol's power comes from his hair. This could not be more apparent than on his header sending Barcelona, I mean Spain in the World Cup final. Nothing in the world of soccer compares to Puyol banging his head late-eighties heavy metal-style into the ball while soaring through the air. You have to feel bad for the ball and the keeper. No one would stand a chance. It's pretty amazing how much force Puyol gets behind his head-thrust. The one earlier in the first half that was off target foreshadowed his smash in the 73rd minute. Puyol deserves his time in the spotlight since he often is overlooked when the best center-backs in the World are discussed. As long as his curly head-banging locks are flowing on Sunday, Spain's chances are good.<br><br>dos<br><br>Like an idiot during the Germany vs. Spain match I thought something seemed familiar. I wrote it off in my mind as a passing thought of how a Germany vs. Netherlands final would be a great repeat of World Cup history from the 1970's. What didn't come to fruition in my mind's eye until after the game was that Spain vs. Germany was a repeat of the Euro's 2 years ago. How come more wasn't made of this before the game? History repeats itself. It just did. I almost missed it.<br><br>tres<br><br>Did anyone find it a bit remiss for ESPN to cut-to jubilant scenes of celebration in Madrid after the match when you consider that La Furia Roja started 7 players from FC Barcelona? Granted that Iker Casillas, Xabi Alonso, and Sergio Ramos are madridistas, ESPN may have wanted to show scenes from a few cities in Spain since Spain in a way is a country of countries and many languages. This was probably lost on a lot of Americans that just follow the MLS or Premier League. Either way, seeing madridistas celebrating a header by FC Barcelona's captain confirms soccer's brilliant ambivalent culture and nature.<br><br>cuatro<br><br>Alexi Lalas, soccer broadcasting's equivalent of Bill Walton, correctly predicted that the Netherlands and Spain would meet in the World Cup final. While watching the ESPN preview, I remember thinking to myself "What is Lalas thinking, the Netherlands? They always self-destruct and choke. There's no need to be that contrarian." Well, he was right and I don't remember seeing that final in many people's picks. Kudos to Alexi!<br><br>cinco<br><br>Spain is not FC Barcelona, but it's really hard not to see it and identify with that way. They started 7 Barcelona players and although they haven't been playing a 4-3-3, the offensive possession style and quick ball-recover defensive pressure Spain is using has Barcelona written all over it. If you replaced Xabi Alonso with Lionel Messi, Sergio Ramos with Dani Alves, Joan Capdevila with Maxwell, and Iker Casillas with Víctor Valdés you'd have a little better team. Keep pinching yourself, they'll still look like and play like Barcelona.<br><br>seis<br><br>Speaking of Barcelona, Spain winning the World Cup can save the Ballon d'Or and FIFA World Player of the Year awards for Lionel Messi. A win for the Netherlands coupled with Intermilan's UEFA Champion's League win would push Wesley Sneijder over the top. Messi's Barcelona buddies can do him quite a favor with a win.<br><br>siete<br><br>If the Netherlands are going to beat Spain, they can't throw everyone behind the ball in their half and expect to be able to counter-attack in the open space. Spain's slow-build possession game functions more like a long-term military siege where you surround and starve-off your enemy. Connecting 20, 30, 40 passes in a row and then winning the ball right back doesn't just tire you physically through the chasing, but also mentally and emotionally. The Netherlands can't let Spain slowly build from the back. Those early passes on the backline either squarely or shortly-direct gradually build-up the momentum and confidence to connect the surgeon's-touch short incisions close to and in the penalty box. People may call this the beautiful game because of the number of passes connected, but make no mistake, it's really a long-term siege prior to storming the games. All this being said, the Netherlands will still have to get the ball off them at some point.<br><br>ocho<br><br>The Netherlands won't stay in their half and be happy to defend. They'll initiate with Spain a little further up the pitch and be happy to foul a lot more often than Germany did. Mark van Bommel and Nigel de Jong will push the limit with the official with how much they can get away with. They'll either maintain this steely balance or be frustrated by Spain's possession and get booked more than once. This balance on the pitch, strategic fouling, and eventual counter-attacking by the Netherlands will be where the game is won or lost. Wesley Sneijder and Intermilan beat Barcelona (Spain as well for all intents and purposes) with this proper balance. Spain will execute their game-plan. The question is whether the Netherlands will too. If they do, we'll have quite a chess-match to watch.<br><br>nueve<br><br>Xavi's passes are about as reliable as the force of gravity. When he has an errant pass I get scared that things are going to start floating around or something. Heck, if he is off by an inch on a pass it feels like a "great disturbance in the force" as Obi Wan Kenobi put it. Xavi had an errant pass around the 39th minute against Germany. Don't count on one against the Netherlands.<br><br>diez<br><br>We are at the end. The Netherland vs. Spain. The group of seven World Cup winning nations will become eight on Sunday. Going back to number dos, history can't and won't repeat itself with the winner on the Sunday's final, but if Germany wins 3rd place on Saturday, something again will seem awfully familiar?<br><br>Please send any feedback to skuzner@gmail.com.
Stephen Kuzner
2010-07-08T17:00:00Z
The Yet to be Fulfilled Dutch Promise
Stephen Kuzner
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/The-Yet-to-be-Fulfilled-Dutch-Promise/-914359033868511360.html
2010-07-06T17:00:00Z
2010-07-06T17:00:00Z
By Stephen Kuzner - WFD Fan Correspondent<br><br>We have one of our finalists for the World Cup, the Netherlands, also known as Holland, Oranje, or Clockwork Orange among other things. They have won all of their games in the World Cup, scored 12 goals, conceded only 5, and knocked-out Brazil, the number one team in the world, at least according to FIFA rankings. On paper the Netherlands are legitimate contenders, but they always are. Is this their time? This story is a bit familiar.<br><br>In 1974, the Netherlands lost to East Germany in the World Cup finals and in 1978 they lost to Argentina. This was a golden-age for believers in the beautiful game. Those teams played a gorgeous system of soccer known as total football. In this system any player, accept the keeper, could slot in and take over the role of any other player. This elegant ever flowing system of play and its accompanying fluid passing game garnered the Netherlands the nick-name Clockwork Orange. The player that encompassed this dazzling style of play the most was Johan Cruyff, one of a handful of the greatest players ever. Further, in 1988, they won a European Championship with a host of stars including Marco van Basten, Ruud Gullit, Ronald Koeman, and Frank Frank Rijkaard. The promise of the Dutch has been to win the World Cup beautifully.<br><br>Yet, the Netherlands never won the big one at the World Cup. Something always went wrong. To a certain degree they have been plagued with a history of unraveling at large tournaments. The current squad is no exception with quick self-destruct buttons for Mark van Bommel, Nigel de Jong, Robin van Persie, and Arjen Robben. This psychology of coming-undone could also be called Clock Work Orange. Additionally, this team does not play the brand of soccer we'd usually attribute with the historic beauty of past Netherlands teams. The current squad plays with two defensive mid-fielders, Nigel de Jong and Mark van Bommel, who although provide protection also slow things down. However, it has been affective. Brazil was always known for its flair, but had a solid defense in its last two World Cup wins in 1994 and 2002. There are some similarities here.<br><br>If the Netherlands win, they may only fulfill half of their promise because it may not be very pretty. Nevertheless, having the Netherlands as a World Cup winner would be nice to see given their rich soccer history. If Spain were to win they could fulfill this promise. Spain has some strange connections with this Dutch Promise. Spain's current style of play reflects the legacy of Total Football through Johan Cruyff's influence at FC Barcelona. Spain started 6 players (Gerard Piqué, Carles Puyol, Sergio Busquets, Xavi, Andrés Iniesta, and David Villa) from Barcelona and brought another one off the bench (Pedro) and yet another one of the bench that was developed in their youth academy (Cesc Fábregas). These players and the Spain side as a whole are known for a beautiful passing possession game and the players can interchange positions on the fly. Further, Cruyff and Rijkaard both coached Champions League winners at Barcelona.<br><br>Either way at the time of this writing, Spain still have yet to beat Germany and it would be foolish to write-off Germany. They always produce. However, the story that this World Cup may be about is seeing either the Netherlands or Spain fulfill the Dutch Promise.<br><br><br>Please send any feedback to skuzner@gmail.com.
Stephen Kuzner
2010-07-06T17:00:00Z
Ghana's Tears are all of Africa's as well
Sayed Otaru
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Ghanas-Tears-are-all-of-Africas-as-well/779347446452796250.html
2010-07-05T16:00:00Z
2010-07-05T16:00:00Z
by Sayed Otaru<br><br>Surely, they had no chance? Getting to the final of the 2010 Africa Cup of Nations had to have been a fluke - the players are too young, Michael Essien is out injured, as is the penalty hero of the last U-20 World Cup final Agyemang-Badu. Sule Muntari might as well have continued to give Coach Milo the silent treatment and not flown out to South Africa with the squad - no? Riddled with injury and some level of division within the squad (Laryea Kingston's alleged and later denied verbal dressing down of Coach Milo: plus Muntari's continued dispute with Coach Milo, and later on some of his team mates ) - surely Ghana were going to cede "second spot" to Serbia or perhaps even Australia.<br><br>On July 2, 2010 this generation of Ghanaian footballers permanently sealed spots in the hearts of Ghanaians and Africans as a whole around the continent. The last of the 6 African teams standing, and only the 3rd African team to make it to the Quarter Finals. On this day, they didn't play for Ghana, they played for Africa!<br><br>Of course there are those on/from the African continent who do not bear Ghanaian nationalities and would argue that they did not share the same sentiments and wished Ghana ill luck because they were a jealous neighbor. I am fairly certain that the number of folks who expressed such sentiments was rather paltry. I encountered two such individuals and the best they could ramble on about was: "Well, Argentineans won't support Brazil, so as a Nigerian, why should I support Ghana?". <br><br>Fair play, but the dynamics are different. The rivalries do not have the same origins or characteristics. While fiercely competitive (note, never really violent) when up against one another, there has been a historical backing among African teams on the International stage at all levels of competition. Until such a time comes when African teams are dominating the senior setup on the international stage, I expect this trend to continue.<br><br>Back to the game - Ghana missing the increasingly impressive Dede Ayew (son of the legendary Abedi Pele), and Jonathan Mensah due to suspension started the game rather nervy. Muntari and KP Boateng weren't exerting the influence many expected them to have early on. As Ghana grew increasingly confident, my palpitations eased back to normal - what's this? I only feel this way (increased heart rate) about Nigerian football and a certain English club team that I support. I like Ghana and want them to win, but something else is going on here, this actually means a lot to me. Muntari's blinder from 35 yards had me in pure ecstasy!<br><br>The game as a whole was a rollercoaster and every time danger men Suarez or Forlan had the ball, we held our collective breaths. Forlan's amazing goal did little to help my fragile state. As the game wore on, you could see the Ghanaian players tiring our and my concern grew. When Suarez handled the ball in the very last minute of extra time, I thought "Yes, this is it! The football gods have finally stepped in for us!" As Gyan's penalty went off the cross bar, all hope died. It knocked the stuffing out of some of the players and fans alike. John Mensah's poor penalty and young Dominic Adiyiah's saved penalty later and a whole continent was in mourning. These men gave everything and some more all tournament long. The great manners Dede Ayew displayed in his interview with Super Sport earlier in the tournament paying homage to the "elders of the team" in typical African fashion showed the other side to the team that may perhaps not have been as visible to the public at large. Kwadwo Asamoah was another young stalwart who carried himself well all tournament long and is destined for great things provided he can keep his head down and continue to work hard. Gyan was inconsolable as he clearly identified himself as being at fault for this loss - I disagree with that notion, because the man was a warrior all tournament long and did very well to score the first Ghanaian spot kick during the shootout. There are heroes all over the team from Richard Kingson in goal to Kevin Prince Boateng who had only assumed the right to play for Ghana on May 12, 2010.<br><br>South Africa made us say: "Ayoba!", Cameroon had us saying: "Please take Emana off", Algeria had us saying: "You could have used Belloumi, Madjer & Menad!", Ivory Coast: "Why Sven, why would you play Dindane over Gervinho!", Nigeria: "Yaaakkkkuubbbuuu.....noooooooooooo!", and Ghana; Ghana made us cry...<br><br>The Black Stars have a bright future ahead of them. If Coach Milo does indeed stay on, I hope he gets the full backing of the Football Federation as well as ex players. He deserves that respect. A few days on from that now infamous day, I have spoken to several non-Ghanaian Africans and the consensus has been the same: "Otaru, that Ghana match pain me oh!" (in pidgin English). We are all (well mostly) proud of our Chales.<br><br>
Sayed Otaru
2010-07-05T16:00:00Z
The Oldest Cliche in our Sport Rang True!
Kenny Hassan
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/The-Oldest-Cliche-in-our-Sport-Rang-True!/-110698001711728904.html
2010-07-01T17:00:00Z
2010-07-01T17:00:00Z
-Kenny Hassan Email to WFD Colleagues<br><br>The oldest cliche in our sport ran true today...'a game of 2 halves'.<br>The Dutch woeful in the first and Brazil equally as woeful in the second.<br><br>After the initial alarm bells went off in the Dutch dressing room with Mathijsen having to opt out at the last second, in comes big veteran PSV defender Ooijer to replace him. Pairing up 'on the fly' with Heitinga is no easy feat, trust me. Johnny has been clueless looking since he left Ajax 3 years ago. Brazil dominate the first half with Robinho threading 5-15 yd one touch passes like he's havin' a laugh. Alves even looks comfortable, Bastos, Silva and Lucio make the game look easy. 1-0 at the interval, could have/should have...been 3.<br><br>Kaka, what the fuck has happened to you son?....one good shot and a decent pass in the first half was unacceptable, Jesus would be SO mad.<br><br>Arjen 'predictable' Robben was going down quicker than Lindsay Lohan with the promise of an 8ball. Van Bomber is a dirty, diving, disgrace to our game and along with Robben, should be banned for life, or sent to Broadway.<br><br>What a 2nd half the Flying Dutchmen had in store for us. De Jong continued his superlative understanding and awareness on a football pitch and if he can control that notion to fly off the handle, he will be a giant for this or any team. He misses the next game for the afore-mentioned problem. Ji Sung Kuyt is as industrious a footballer you will see on this planet, I dont know what he's trying to accomplish, Bert Van Marwijk doesnt know what he's trying to accomplish and Kuyt himself is absolutely bewildered. Magnificent effort throughout the match from him. RVP is brittle and selfish and not that good in BIG games, and oh, thats why he's at Arsenal.<br><br>Snejder is amazing, right foot, left foot, wherever it lands, he's as precise with both, as evident when he swung that left foot cross in and Melo, the Dud beat Cesar to it and knocked it in his own net. Wesley, the smallest guy in the box then pops up AND HEADS the winner. <br><br>Overall, a fairly entertaining game of football, we wont be talking about it years from now, unless your Dutch.<br>Thank fuck Brazil are out the way now, Argentina prepare for victory next Sunday.<br><br>Ghana anyone?....<br><br><br><br>Cheers,<br>Kenny.
Kenny Hassan
2010-07-01T17:00:00Z
Bradley stays and then goes?
Stephen Kuzner
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Bradley-stays-and-then-goes/-136254834432591498.html
2010-06-30T17:00:00Z
2010-06-30T17:00:00Z
By Stephen Kuzner - WFD Fan Correspondent<br><br>Does US Soccer Coach Bob Bradley stay or does he go? This will ultimately be answered by US Soccer President Sunil Gulati over the next few weeks and months. Any employer goes through a process when deciding to replace an employee and then who to hire. The following are 6 questions that can serve as a guide to what Sunil Gulati decision-making process may look like.<br><br>1. Did Bradley do enough as US Men's Coach to merit another 4 years?<br><br>If Sunil Gulati answers yes to this question, the process becomes a quick extension for Bob Bradley. Unfortunately, the answer to this question will be no. Although winning Group C may have been enough in past years to be retained, not avenging the 2006 defeat against Ghana in the Knock-phase makes merit a very tricky question to answer. The US's performance in last summer's Confederations Cup and Bradley's overall record the last 4 years help, but this question is too close to call. What we can reasonable guess is that in the eyes of Sunil Gulati, Bradley probably does not unequivocally deserve another 4 years. Nevertheless, he also hasn't done too little to automatically merit a dismissal. Thus, Gulati will probably consider all options.<br><br>2. Will Bradley suffer from staleness if he is retained for 2 World Cup cycles?<br><br>Everyone seems to think that if a national team coach is retained for 8 years that "staleness" sets in the following World Cup. Look at Bruce Arena and Marcello Lippi. They held onto the same players for 2 cycles and these players seemed to expire like food past its expiration date. Still something doesn't quite seem right about this theory of staleness. Let's take a look at World Cup Winners the last 20 years. In reverse order this is how much time the winning coaches had prior to the World Cup: Marcello Lippi had 2 years with Italy prior to 2006, Luiz Felipe Scolari had 1 year with Brazil prior to 2002, Aimé Jacquet had 5 years with France prior to 1998, Carlos Alberto Parreira had 3 years with Brazil prior to 1994, and Franz Beckenbauer had 6 years with Germany prior to 1990. That's 3 winners with coaches just for the 1 cycle and 2 for 2 cycles. Staleness may not be as much of a concern as initially thought.<br><br>3. How often is Bradley better than his opponent's coach?<br><br>If Bradley does not run out of ideas or cling to the same players through 2 cycles, is he still better, more times than not, than the coach standing across the field from him. Lets look at who Bradley faced this World Cup. Ghana had Milovan Rajevac, Algeria had Rabah Saadane, Slovenia had Matjaz Kek, and England had Fabio Capello. Out of this lot, Fabio Capello is probably the only one Sunil Gulati would probably want more, although Milovan Rajevac could really make a name for himself if Ghana defeats Uruguay and makes it to the semi's. Nevertheless, Bradley is not out of his league and if anything is probably better than more of the coaches that he faces.<br><br>4. Should the USA have an American or a foreign coach for the next cycle?<br><br>Should we stay with one our own or learn from a outsider that may have experience actually winning a World Cup as a coach or player? The reality of the situation is that the US is not going to win the World Cup in 2014. We don't have that caliber of talent in the pipeline right now. 2018 or 2022 would be more realistic chances if we continue to grow as a footballing nation. If we are to learn from a foreigner with some World Cup wisdom, this is the time to do it.<br><br>5. Would US Soccer experience a bounce from a new coach?<br><br>A better question would be: Would US Soccer experience more of a bounce from a new coach 1-2 years prior to the World Cup than 4 years ahead of time. The answer to question #2 gives some evidence here. Marcello Lippi had 2 years with Italy prior to 2006, Luiz Felipe Scolari had 1 year with Brazil prior to 2002, and Carlos Alberto Parreira had 3 years with Brazil prior to 1994. Taking this into consideration, hanging-on to Bradley for 2-3 more years and then bringing-in a foreign coach makes some sense.<br><br>6. What coaches can US Soccer reasonably expect to sign?<br><br>So if it makes sense to replace Bradley in 2-3 years, who can Sunil Gulati reasonably expect to be able to sign in that timeframe? A short-list right now could include Jürgen Klinsmann, Ottmar Hitzfeld, Guus Hiddink, and Carlos Alberto Parreira. Everything would seem to point in Klinsmann's direction. He was a close choice before. Maybe Sunil Gulati is willing this time around to give Klinsmann more the total control that he wanted. He speaks American English great and seems to fit right in with ESPN's broadcast of the World Cup. Heck he even has a residence in Los Angeles right convenient to WFD. If Gulati wanted to make a change and stay American, maybe Jason Kreis gets a chance or Bruce Arena is brought back-in rejuvenated. Kreis probably needs some more seasoning though.<br><br>Answer:<br><br>So what will happen? At this point, it seems that retaining Bradley for at least another 2-3 years will probably happen. And if he does well by going deep in the Copa America, maybe he'll become a permanent interim coach. However, now is the time to go abroad for a coach if we are going to do it and Klinsmann seems to fit the bill. This seems like déjà vu. Perhaps in 2-3 years, it won't be Klinsmann but rather his ESPN Studio-mate Roberto Martínez. That would give Martinez a few more years seasoning to his 3 years coaching in England. Bradley will stay at least for a year or 2, tops 3, but after that its anyone's guess. We've seen this before.<br><br>Please send any feedback to skuzner@gmail.com.
Stephen Kuzner
2010-06-30T17:00:00Z
An American's View of England
Stephen Kuzner
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/An-Americans-View-of-England/-359570185755050099.html
2010-06-27T17:00:00Z
2010-06-27T17:00:00Z
By Stephen Kuzner - WFD Fan Correspondent<br><br>Dear England,<br><br> I writing out of concern for your national team not only on behalf of America, but also on behalf of the Footballing world as a whole. If things go as planned for you-all, the 2018 World Cup will be "coming home" to your great land. Particularly for us in America, if you win the bid, we'll be given a great opportunity for a somewhat convenient soccer vacation. All this being said, an underachieving English national team, is a blight on England and the global footballing landscape. The world needs you to get things together before a potential embarrassment on your own soil. This is what you need to do.<br><br> It is an honor to play for England. Cut any player that doesn't feel this way about your great country. Your players need to be either in or out. Players caught in between will only make your team indecisive, divided, and un-driven. Any player should be honored to play for soccer's founding country. Soccer's exact origins will always be a source of debate, nonetheless it would be fair to say your people created the game. At the very least, you spread soccer across the globe more so than anyone. Soccer would not be a global game without you. Any player that does not understand and revere England's footballing legacy needs to go.<br><br> Next, release any player that has or even potentially could divide your team. The collective whole must be greater than its parts. Before the World Cup began, I knew your team would underachieve for no other reason than John Terry was on your roster. How can any team unify around a key player that is, without a shadow of a doubt, a dubious character in relation to his teammates? Any way you cut it, Terry was a polarizing factor in your team this time around. A team can not truly rally around a player they know has truly betrayed a former teammate. Don't believe what your team said about being behind Terry. They don't believe their own words. Think about what England in 2010 would have been if Terry's character was that of Sir Bobby Charlton or that of Bobby Moore? You'd have a legitimate captain the team could be centered around. Steven Gerrard was third string captain, hardly a leader.<br><br> Please don't play Gerrard and Lampard together or two similar players in 2018.<br><br> While on the Gerrard/Lampard thing, every player needs to be willing to play any position they are called-upon to slot into. Phillip Lahm plays better on the left, but Germany needed him on the right. Please take note because you just saw this one while losing to Germany. If Gerrard won't play on the left and stay on left if called-upon, cut him. Your players must be willing to do whatever is asked of them. No exceptions.<br><br> That brings us to the fragile psyche of your players. You're a courageous nation and your players need to reflect this admirable trait. It is absolute rubbish that your players were not "mentally ready" because they didn't know the team-sheet until just hours before the match. The complaints from your national team about this are ridiculous. This is the World Cup where you go home if you lose, not the week-in and week-out daily grind of the club season. Every player should be focused to play every game. Players without this emotional fortitude and attitude of do or die should not be considered for your team. Further, your players whined like a bunch of pampered kids that they were bored! Are you kidding? (No pun intended.) It's the World Cup. Who cares if you are bored? You are England! Your players need to understand that:<br><br> PLAYING FOR ENGLAND IS AN HONOR NOT A PRIVILEGE!<br><br> Getting back to courage, honor, and strength, these are the characteristics with which the world tends to think of when they think about the English game. This time round, these values were lacking. Your team displayed little grit, determination, and resolve after Lampard's goal was disallowed against Germany. Your veteran star-laden team lost 4-1 to bunch of up-coming German kids. You need players that encompass these values and you need to create a culture within your national team that re-enforces them. The culture of the team can make the sum of its parts greater than the whole. A focus on the core English footballing values must come from the FA down.<br><br> These issues deal with both the personnel and the culture of your team. You got 8 years to get them straightened-out before you potentially host the 2018 World Cup. Don't get distracted about tactics or whether to have a foreign or an English coach. Don't let your tabloid press keep you focused on these two areas. They are meaningless without the people and culture to successfully execute a plan. We want you to do well. A repeat of 1966 on English soil would be a great story.
Stephen Kuzner
2010-06-27T17:00:00Z
USA Soccer Defined: Bomb & Invade
Stephen Kuzner
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/USA-Soccer-Defined:-Bomb--Invade/-913982688692222941.html
2010-06-25T17:00:00Z
2010-06-25T17:00:00Z
By Stephen Kuzner - WFD Fan Correspondent<br><br> <br>It doesn't take a rocket scientist to realize that soccer's moment in America has arrived. The World Cup Talk that so often envelopes every fiber of a nation's consciousness has finally taken grip in the US. Can you remember the last time Congress stopped to catch the end of a US Soccer game? The World Cup conversation has even made its way into Conservation Talk Radio and Cable TV. For at least the moment, soccer has America's attention. However, for years America has failed to define its national-brand of soccer. Brazil has its individual-celebratory beautiful game of "Joga Bonito", Italy has its defensive "Catenaccio", and Holland has its fluid "Total Football". What is American Soccer? Right now, we are seeing it define itself ........ Bomb & Invade.<br><br> Let's look at the first part of this brand of soccer: Bomb. To understand the style of US Soccer we must start in the context of American sports. After all, Bob Bradley had the greatest winner ever, Celtics legend, Bill Russell, speak to the team. Against Algeria, the US goal was set up by two bombs. The first was a punt by Tim Howard that went the length of the field to the other penalty box. Howard did the same thing shortly before Robert Green's gaffe against England. The second was Howard's throw that set up the counterattack that led to the goal. This throw reminded me of one thing; the bomb in the American Gridiron. In that throw, a lot of Americans didn't see a goalie chuck a soccer-ball down a pitch, but rather a quarterback throw a pig-skin down the gridiron. Make no mistake, this was a bomb. Bombs shock. Bombs disorient. Bombs win games.<br><br> Further, throughout this World Cup campaign the US has been playing long-ball after long-ball down the pitch to Jozy Altidore and company. Soccer purists will call this "Kick and Rush", the old-school English-style. And, this claim would have some merit, but long-balls alone are only part of Bomb and Invade. Also, this aerial attack is more akin to the long passing game of the gridiron but played with the feet and heads, minus the hands. Prior to US goals, Slovenia and Algeria seemed in shock from all this bombing.<br><br> This bombing stretches the field creating gaps in the midfield for Donovan, Bradley, and Dempsey to exploit or in other words invade. With a team stretched, a multitude of attacking options open up. The US can do a slow build-up of passes functioning much like a long-term siege, launch a counterattack, out-flank their opponents, push it up gut, or hold-up a long-ball and flick it on to a runner coming from the midfield. Using a wide-range of attacking options reflects the US's diversity of players. We are a melting pot and our national team reflects this diversity.<br><br> We must not forget to be careful when creating new sports analogies with the military. We are extremely fortunate for what our troops do. We can not thank them enough. Still, the world watches this US team and equates its resolve with that of the US military. US Soccer can't receive a comment better than this. We have a team that reflects the best values of an America that never gives up. This probably refreshes a world that saw the French national team implode and try to pack-up its bags and leave early.<br><br> This brand of soccer is the new sporting American-Exceptionalism. We created our own sports with the Gridiron, Basketball, and Baseball. Our American games connect us to who we are as Americans. Now we have finally opened up to the global game that connects us to collective human experience throughout the world. Nevertheless, in America, we do things our way. And we'll play and win soccer our way.
Stephen Kuzner
2010-06-25T17:00:00Z
Brazilian Nazgûl
Stephen Kuzner
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Brazilian-Nazgûl/603150779406515222.html
2010-06-21T17:00:00Z
2010-06-21T17:00:00Z
By Stephen Kuzner - WFD Fan Correspondent<br><br>Let's face it. As I believe Kenny Hassan mentioned a few times on WFD, Spain may be a lot of folks' favorite for the World Cup, but Brazil remains in the back of our subconscious as the team to truly fear. It sure would be nice to see Spain or Holland win their first World Cup, maybe England get their second, or the Maradona circus keep-up with its early pace. These would be pleasing headlines. But, Brazil hovers above this World Cup like the Nazgûl Ring Wraiths from Lord of the Rings. They descend-upon and devour whatever is in front of them. This Brazil relentlessly hunts for number six.<br><br>It never felt like the Ivory Coast had much of a chance in Sunday's match. Sven-Göran Eriksson said that, "to beat Brazil, you must be almost perfect." Well, the Ivory Coast was not perfect, but the Ivory Coast is a team a lot of folks felt was Africa's best chance in the World Cup. The Ivorians seemed very much outclassed in a game that was touted as a marquee match-up in the group phase. It may be that even if you play perfectly and Brazil play flawed, Brazil will still pretty much beat you senseless.<br><br>The partying, overindulgences, and lack of focus from Brazil 2006 have been transformed into an efficient Dunga-designed Brazilan Sparta. As routinely described by the Vickapedia, Brazil's physical preparations are meticulous and best-in-class. Their depth and quality of talent are superior to most, bar Spain and the floundering French. Further, this talent is ideal personnel to play an organized defensive counter-acting style of football. Lúcio, Maicon, and Júlio César played pivotal roles for José Mourinho's defense at Intermilan. Gilberto Silva and Felipe Melo provide additional protection in front the defense and bite in the midfield. Kaká and Robinho launch counter-attacks at light-speed. And, Luis Fabiano finishes with ruthless execution. Nevertheless, there surely must be some chink in their armor?<br><br>In the Confederations Cup final, the US nearly found a way to beat Brazil but in the end just enraged them, at least if you judge by the second half of the match. Against the Ivory Coast, Brazil's vaunted team discipline slowly eroded away under relentless hacking, dubious tackling, diving, and theatrics from the Ivorians resulting in Kaká being sent-off after two yellow cards, albeit the second from an Oscar worthy performance from Kader Keita. However, this hardly seems like a chink in the armor. Perhaps national pressure boils beneath the surface of a team that is not playing the beautiful football its country craves so much. In its place now resides an effective and at times ugly brand of football. If this pressure is rising, we have yet to see it. Searching for a significant flaw in Brazil's game may be as difficult as trying to catch a fly with chopsticks like Mr. Miyagi.<br><br>The closest thing to a flaw may well be that Brazil hasn't figured out yet how to work in Dani Alves to the staring eleven. Macion, the #1 right-back in the world is backed-up by Alves, the #2 right-back in the world. Now there's a real problem? We are grasping at straws here. Instead, let's grasp at some chopsticks. Brazil doesn't have the one person on the planet outside of Mr. Miyagi that can catch a fly with chopsticks. They don't have Lionel Messi.
Stephen Kuzner
2010-06-21T17:00:00Z
USA 2 SLOVENIA 2: HIGHWAY ROBBERY AT ELLIS PARK
Matthew Switalski
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/USA-2-SLOVENIA-2:-HIGHWAY-ROBBERY-AT-ELLIS-PARK/-109787251810909592.html
2010-06-19T19:00:00Z
2010-06-19T19:00:00Z
Dateline Johannesburg, South Africa:<br><br>We wuz robbed. <br><br>Last night I had the privilege of being in Ellis Park, for the greatest soccer match I've ever attended. Sam's Army was there in full force. Elvis was in the building. So was the Statue of Liberty. America owned that stadium. I've been here since the 11th, and the US is the most popular team here with the natives after Bafana Bafana. We had played England to a draw on the pitch, and more impressively, in the terraces. But this was a home game for us and we were ready to put Slovenia to the sword. <br><br>Unfortunately, the Slovenes refused to play their assigned role. We have had trouble with the likes of Poland, the Czechs, the Slovaks. Now these characters. A typical slavic outfit. Tactically astute, technically sound, strong in the air and the tackle, and keen apostles of Mourinhoism, i.e., feigning injury, cheating and time wasting. Utterly shameless. But first was the skill. Many were calling for Ricardo Clark to get the hook, and Jose Torres to be put into central midfield. Well, not so good. Twice, Slovenia clinically exploited the lack of a shield to go up 2-0, the second being a sucker punch before halftime and against the run of play. On the first, there was no understanding between Bradley and Torres, giving the shooter all the time and space in the world. And Howard was too far off his line. On the second, Bradley was out of the play, and Torres challenged meekly, while Onyewu could have saved matters by stepping up to play the runner offside. Instead, Gooch planted, the runner was onside, and Howard failed to make the save -- I think the ribs are bothering him. At the halftime whistle, I wondered how this could be happening. With the greatest crowd we've ever had, with everything poised for a major statement, were we really going to lay down?<br><br>No, we weren't. In the 46th minute, Landon Donovan came up big. The goal was right in front of us, as we were in the US section, inside the 10 yard area. Donovan dribbled toward the goal, slowly. I took my eye off him to see who would make the run; surely, he was going to pass. The angle was impossibly acute for him to attempt a shot. It seemed like it was in slow motion, as he got closer and closer.......and then he almost decapitated the goalie with a finish into the roof of the net. I don't know what it was like on TV at home, but we went crazy. The crowd was hysterical. And then the long wait for an equalizer. You felt it had to come, but we were getting discouraged. Bob Bradley had acted decisively at halftime. Dempsey up front, Torres and Findlay off, Feilhaber and Maurice Edu in. Edu was making a major difference, a superior athlete. We were winning balls, Edu was staying home, freeing Bradley to do his box to box routine. Yet the Slovenes were cagey, and shameless with their time wasting, with a Ref unable or unwilling to police their tactics. Finally, it came. The knockdown from Altidore, the distracting run by Gomez to pull the center half out of position, and a great finish from Bradley. Bedlam.<br><br>But we wanted the win. A blatant trip on Altidore for a free kick. Should have been a second yellow and a dismissal. Donovan placed it perfectly and Edu crashed it in for the victory, right in front of us. Our crowd was going nuts. But I never stopped watching the box, and saw the Malian was up to no good. Koman Coulibaly is a financial inspector by day. Here, his books were not in good order. We've all seen the replays. It was a rugby match, with at least 3 Slovenes holding US players in bear hugs.<br><br>And that went on all game, every free kick or corner. You see it all the time and I resigned myself to the fact that the only way to stop it is to put 2 more linesman on each byline to call the penalties. Surely it's too much to ask of one referee? Actually, no, it's not. Today I had the pleasure of watching Roberto Rosetti of Italy handle the Ghana v Australia match in Rustenburg. An absorbing encounter, and a fabulous crowd, full marks to the Ghanians and the Aussies. But I was in the 3rd row in the corner where Australia attacked the first half. There were several corners and free kicks during the game at my end. Most of the free kicks were in the area where Donovan had to take his last night. You probably don't see it on TV, but let me tell you what Rosetti does. He makes the call; then he marches off the 10 yards. Then he takes his position near the scrum, and gets all their attention by making the safe sign with his arms while he yells "hands off". He blows the whistle, and he doesn't even look at the ball. He concentrates on the area. And guess what? There's no wrestling, no bear hugs, no shirt pulling, no nothing. Just clean runs and defending. Cus they know he's watching and they know he has the cajones to call a penalty. There was no arguing and no time wasting all game. He had complete control and respect and it was a good match as a result. So, it can be done.<br><br>As for the tie, you can't always get what you want. But I think we got what we needed. Full credit must go to Bob Bradley. The lineup changes backfired. So what? What matters is, he adjusted, acting decisively to correct the problems. And we have a wonderful spirit in our team. You only have to watch the rabble that was England against Algeria to see players who cannot function together. That never happens with us. We're not the most talented side, but we are a team, a unit. And our support has come of age. That was an awesome performance by our supporters and I was honored to be there amongst them. Believe me, it wasn't easy for me to get here, and I know I'm no exception. But our fans gave everything they had last night, and it made a difference.<br><br>I've been to Anfield, Stamford Bridge, Highbury and Parkhead. I toured the Bernabeu on the way here. I know it's a rugby ground, but Ellis Park was the best soccer ground I've ever been to, and that was the most electric atmosphere I've ever been a part of. We sit 2nd in the group. Two 0-0 ties in the remaining matches and we are through. But you should have to win to get through your group. We need to beat Algeria. I'll finally be stateside, but with my brothers and sisters in arms still here from Sam's Army, I'm confident Bradley's Boys will get the result.<br><br>What a night. What a game. What a country.<br><br>Matt Switalski
Matthew Switalski
2010-06-19T19:00:00Z
Spain Gutted with a Swiss Army Knife
Stephen Kuzner
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Spain-Gutted-with-a-Swiss-Army-Knife/959371321698616125.html
2010-06-19T17:00:00Z
2010-06-19T17:00:00Z
By Stephen Kuzner - WFD Fan Correspondent<br><br> <br><br>Switzerland's defeat of Spain gave us our first World Cup shocker. The Swiss played not to lose and ended-up winning. del Bosque's comment that the Swiss win was an "excessive prize ... considering the football they displayed" may be unmerited, but may not necessarily be inaccurate because as well as the Swiss executed their plan to perfection, the Spanish were a half step behind in executing their own plan.<br><br> <br><br>So far, we can call this the "2010 José Mourinho World Cup". Success breeds copy-cats. Mourinho's Intermilan was good enough to beat the Barcelona with a well organized defensive counter-attacking style. And like Intermilan, the Swiss beat Barcelona, being that Spain started six Barcelona players (Iniesta, Xavi, Busquets, Villa, Pique, and Puyol) and brought on a seventh in Pedro, with a well organized defensive counter-attacking style.<br><br> <br><br>Ottmar Hitzfeld wanted two compact lines behind their strikers, to not lose too much energy fighting for the ball, and to focus on their defense and wait for the counter attack. They stuck to this plan and made their own luck. When you score against Gerard Pique and Iker Casillas, arguably the world's best center-back and goalie, via a mad scramble with players tumbling and tossing on the ground, a little luck is involved. To be fair, we'll call it well-earned luck.<br><br> <br><br>The reality of the situation though is that Spain was a half-step or inches away from running away with this one. I stopped taking notes on the near misses at one point. Villa was just short of connecting on a lot of chances. Without Torres most of the game, Villa was out of sync. Iniesta was menacing, but not venomous. Navas brought a lot of energy to the right wing. The 67th through 69th minutes brought a number of chances but no goals. Torres looked not himself and had a few heavy touches.<br><br> <br><br>So even if Spain had chances, despite an unfit Torres, is there still something wrong in the Spanish camp? Xavi flailed his arms in disgust a number of times at his teammates for not making passes. And, things aren't going right if Gerard Pique is coming forward into the box throughout the game and he's producing some of your best opportunities.<br><br> <br><br>Spain moved from a 4-5-1 to 4-4-2 in the second half. Why not use the 4-1-3-2 that won the Euro's? A lone striker may not be the best option when you are playing a possession game versus a team that throws ten behind the ball or uses back five hoping for a counter-attack. Zabi Alonso or Busquets could fill the role vacated by Marcos Senna. Until Torres is fully fit, Pedro could blend up front with Villa.<br><br> <br><br>Still, at the end of the day, the 24th ranked team in the world beat the 2nd ranked team in the world. Perhaps we should not read too much into the Spanish slip-up. 8% of teams that have lost their 1st Game have advanced past the group phase, including 1990's Argentina that lost to Cameroon in their first game and eventually advanced to the final. Spain with all that talent should be fine, right?<br><br> <br><br>Nevertheless, all this makes you wonder. If with a little luck, Switzerland can beat Spain playing an organized defensive counter-attacking brand of football, how can anyone stop Brazil if they do the same thing?
Stephen Kuzner
2010-06-19T17:00:00Z
USA vs. England in Amish Country
Stephen Kuzner
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/USA-vs.-England-in-Amish-Country/361894736690450595.html
2010-06-14T17:00:00Z
2010-06-14T17:00:00Z
By Stephen Kuzner - WFD Fan Correspondent<br><br>A few months ago, my wife and I agreed to go on a camping trip with a couple-friend who have a daughter the same age as our daughter. Little did I know, when I agreed, half-listening because I was watching an FC Barcelona match, that the weekend was the first of the World Cup. I didn't put the date on my Outlook Calendar. Months passed by having forgotten this trip. The US gets drawn with England. And Presto-Chango, I am in a predicament that I can't get myself out of.<br><br>Now this isn't some ordinary camping trip. We are doing to Lancaster County Pennsylvania, God's Country. Well, Amish Country. I've been waiting 4 years for the World Cup, the US gets drawn with England, I get about a half-dozen viewing party invites, and I'm going camping? What am I going to do? The trip is a done deal. Finding a sports-bar in Amish Country is a tall order. At least, I can listen to it on radio. Heck, maybe this would create an even better story.<br><br>I bring a radio and batteries. Early Saturday morning I test the radio and find two sports stations. Surely one of these will have the game. Even better, I find a four-leaf clover while playing with my daughter. Perhaps, the US will win. 2:30 comes and everyone at the camp is napping. Perfect, I can turn on the radio, hold on to my rosary beads from the Vatican, and listen to the game. However, neither station has the game. <br><br>Panic time! I run to my car and frantically scan through every AM station. It feels like an eternity. My heart starts to speed. My hands and feet go cold. Oddly, I hear the click-clack of an Amish horse-drawn carriage somewhere beyond a tree-line. My wife walks-up to the car to remind me not to run the engine too long. My plan #2 was to try and go the whole weekend without finding-out who wins and watch the DVR recording. I have a better chance at the lottery than that. <br><br>After 3 scans through the channels, the radio finally picks-up a faint ESPN station. Four minutes have passed and England is winning 1-Nil from a Steven Gerrard goal. <br><br>The click-clack of the horse-drawn carriage drifts off and the Vuvuzelas from the broadcast slowly surround my car like the buzz of circling bees. I have heard this sound before. The rally sound of the US in the Confederations Cup. We got 86 more minutes, my four-leaf clover, and Vatican beads. WE can do this!<br><br>I'm sitting in my car in Amish Country thinking "WE" can do this?<br><br>Apparently Donovan only touches the ball on corners. We misfire on header after header. Tommy Smith keeps saying we need to string some passes together. Tim Howard gets hurt. James Milner gets a yellow card and Shawn Wright-Phillips replaces him. Howards punts a long ball that goes over the goal. Tommy Smith points out that Robert Green was a bit far out of goal, unfocused. Foreshadowing? Then, Green has the Howler. He bobbles in a routine shot by Clint Dempsey.<br><br>America! F@#$ yeah! <br><br>Half time. I take a walk to a public bathroom in the woods and walk back. The second half I try to picture things more. I close my eyes. They say the US is moving left to right. I hear long ball after long ball by the US that just misses its intended recipient. More and more Tommy Smith and JP Dellacamera mention Rooney's name. Frank Lampard delivers free-kicks and corners. My mind sees siege after siege after siege. <br><br>Peter Crouch replaces Emile Heskey. I've seen Crouchie play dozens of times. On TV he is 6 foot 5 inches. In my mind he is 6 foot 10 inches. Jan Koller might as well be entering the game. Memories of getting tanked by Czech Republic in 2006 flood my mind. I can't have negative vibes! We can do this. Use that "Creative Visualization" nonsense that David Beckham spoke about. I go to my "happy place" and picture Tim Howard Saves, Landon Donovan-led counter-attacks, and, most of all, Jay Demerit slide-tackles.<br><br>Tommy Smith says that both teams are playing to win, not tie. This is stressful to listen to. Stuart Holden subs-in. The 90th minute mark comes. Stoppage time starts. We get half-way through stoppage time. Herculez Gomes is set to ....... The Whistle Blows. Draw!<br><br>I turn off the radio and its Vuvuzela backdrop. I get out of the car. Everyone is awake now. My smile tells them that something good happened. The next 20 minutes are spent explaining to our friends why a draw is good and how there even are draws in soccer. My cell phone has a few drunk-dials about the game. Another click-clack of a horse-drawn carriage starts in the distance.
Stephen Kuzner
2010-06-14T17:00:00Z
Ze Germans Are Coming!
Dylan Thomas
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Ze-Germans-Are-Coming!/867513943003866658.html
2010-06-14T16:00:00Z
2010-06-14T16:00:00Z
Philipp Lahm lead Die Mannschaft out in their opening World Cup match against Australia and captained his side to an emphatic 4-0 victory over the Socceroos. Goals from Podolski and Klose in the first half, and then Muller and Cacau in the second half showcased Germany's dominance and superiority over technically inferior opposition. <br> <br>Australia, on the other hand, will be having a hard time picking themselves up after this result. A crushing defeat in their opening game, and a straight red card shown to their talismanic midfielder Tim Cahill, means the Socceroos must be favourites to finish bottom of the group, especially with Serbia and Ghana still on the horizon.<br> <br>What does it mean, though, this result for Germany? While they looked very convincing going forward, with an excellent fluidity to their play through the midfield and into the front four, they were almost completely untested at the back. Australia's formation was essentially an awfully defensive 4-6-0, and they made absolutely no impact at all going forward. Manuel Neuer, who would be third choice if Rene Adler was fit and if Robert Enke would be alive, made only one real save today. Going into the next two group games, very little may change. Serbia and Ghana will be pressed back by Germany's front four, and Schweinsteiger and Khedira in the midfield will control possession with their battling mentality and passing ability, so when will Germany be tested?<br> <br>Many consider this Germany side to have only a small chance of making a Ballack-esque 'big impact' on this tournament. After injuries to number one goalkeeper Rene Adler, Heiko Westermann, Simon Rolfes, Christian Traesch, and obviously ex-captain Michael Ballack, many football fans around the world had written Germany off. But, after today, we have seen fantastically talented younger players like Mesut Ozil, Thomas Muller, Sami Khedira, Holger Badstuber, and Lukas Podolski, and while they may not yet be household names, they will certainly become that as the tournament wears on.<br> <br>But I digress. Germany should take maximum points from their remaining two group games, and then will most likely play USA in the round of sixteen. The USMNT gave England a run for their money just days ago but I doubt they will give Germany so much trouble. Germany's fluidity of passing and movement throughout midfield and through the front four should be too much for USA to handle. <br> <br>Now, with Germany looking at an almost assured quarter-final spot, confidence in the German camp will be very high after what should be four exciting wins for the Nationalelf. But where are Germany's weaknesses? When will they be exposed? Are they as good as they looked against Australia? <br> <br>If you can bet on anything, you can bet on the fact that the Germans will be prepared for anything. Despite them being a very young squad on average, they have all the same characteristics of great German players like Lothar Matthaus and Michael Ballack. They are determined, they are clinical, and they know what is at stake. I don't see this German side being slowed down by any team who performs less than extraordinarily.
Dylan Thomas
2010-06-14T16:00:00Z
Brazilian Yin and Spanish Yang
Stephen Kuzner
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Brazilian-Yin-and-Spanish-Yang/-420103854892076944.html
2010-06-09T17:00:00Z
2010-06-09T17:00:00Z
What can we expect in terms of tactics from this World Cup? In 2006 we saw a lot of 4-5-1's and 4-4-2's. How much scoring will we see? Will we see more defensive-counterattacking yin or more attack-mined yang? Let's take a look at tactics in regards to formations and style of play. Please keep in mind, these groupings are on my best guess what each manager will use. This is what we'll see.<br><br>We'll group formations into three categories: "More-Offensive", "More-Defensive", or "More-Balanced". "More-Offensive" formations include three 4-3-3's (including Portugal and both Greece and Denmark who are not exactly attack-minded), one 3-5-2 (Uruguay), and one 3-3-1-2 (Chile). These formations are termed "More-Offensive" because they allow more players to get forward. It doesn't look like many teams are taking chances with more offensive-minded formations. That's just five out of thirty-two.<br><br>"More-Defensive" formations include seven 4-2-3-1's (Australia, Brazil, Germany, Italy, Japan, Mexico, Holland), one 5-2-3 (New Zealand), and one 5-3-1-1 (North Korea). These formations are considered defensive in nature because six of the players are in more defensive-oriented roles. Some of these 4-2-3-1's may be more flexible 4-5-1's that allow quicker counterattacks. And, although 4-2-3-1 provides more cover with the option of two defensive/holding midfielders, Mexico, Holland, and Germany will probably have a more offensive-minded or at least balanced style of play. New Zealand and North Korea will play five at the back out of necessity. Nevertheless, nine out of the thirty-two formations expected to be used are "More-Defensive".<br><br>More than half the teams this time around will have what we'll call a "More-Balanced" formation. By this, meaning at least four at the back and where the two central midfielders provide a balance between creative play-making and defensive holding by either having two well-rounded midfielders or dividing-up the creative play-making and defensive holding duties. They include sixteen 4-4-2's (Algeria, Argentina, Cameroon, Côte d'Ivoire, England, France, Honduras, South Korea, Nigeria, Paraguay, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Africa, Switzerland, United States) and two 4-1-3-2's (Ghana & Spain). It makes sense to see a variety of styles of play being deployed by these teams given the flexibility in utilizing a 4-4-2. <br><br>What do we see in terms of style of play? We'll group styles of play into three broadly-based categories. Teams that want to initiate offensive either by possession or more attack-minded play we'll call "Offensive-Minded". Teams that like to sit back and absorb what a team throws at them and then hit on the counterattack via the spaced created we'll call "Defensive-Minded". Teams that do a variety of both we'll call "Balanced".<br><br>If we break things down this way, we see things similar to the formations, although they don't match-up exactly. We have eighteen "Balanced" styles of play (Algeria, Argentina, Cameroon, England, France, Germany, Ghana, Honduras, South Korea, Netherlands, Nigeria, Portugal, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Africa, United States, & Uruguay), eleven "Defensive-Minded" styles of play (Australia, Brazil, Côte d'Ivoire, Denmark, Greece, Italy, Japan, North Korea, New Zealand, Paraguay, & Switzerland) and three "Offensive-Minded" styles of play (Chile, Mexico, & Spain). Again, we see lots of balance, some defensive-minded teams, and little offensive focus.<br> <br>So what does all this mean in terms of scoring in the World Cup? Mourinho's Intermilan beat Barcelona 3-1 in their first leg of the Champions League Semi-final using a very defensive counterattacking style and a defensive 4-3-1-2 formation, so being more defensive and counterattack-focused may not necessarily mean less goals. <br><br>The majority of teams have balanced formations and styles of play. Like vs. like often means fewer points of weakness and fewer spaces to exploit on the field. So if we are judging by formations and styles of play alone we'll probably see a little less scoring than hoped for. But, that will be alright because a final of Brazil and Spain would create a lot of potential for scoring and drama between Brazil's defensive counterattacking yin and Spain's possession-based attacking yang.
Stephen Kuzner
2010-06-09T17:00:00Z
The Dressing Down
Steven Cohen
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/The-Dressing-Down/-246843644500969486.html
2010-06-08T19:00:00Z
2010-06-08T19:00:00Z
Wow! The last kick about before the start of the greatest show on earth -- and I do really mean the greatest show on earth. The FIFA 2010 World Cup is 4 days and some change from kicking of in Soccer City, South Africa next Friday.<br><br>Let's start with the USMNT v Australia; I thought the US, in a very professional, workman like, performance, got the required result.<br><br>The line up was good with the exception that I am not convinced about Ricardo Clark at this level but I do think that the combination of Altidore, Buddle, and Findley, and a splash of Herculez Gomez, can be very effective and very easily inter-changed.<br><br>Kenny had been talking all last week whether or not we are about to see a really defensive World Cup. Judging on what I saw yesterday in the US vs. Australia game, he could well be right with all the goals coming from various forms of counterattacking. With that said, I thought the US defense played well and soaked up a lot of pressure.<br>Terrific to see Edson Buddle live up to being named after Pele and getting his first two international goals<br><br>Bradley has a chance to leave a mark on his team and so this is what I think the line up should be vs. England next Saturday June 12th in Rustenburg:<br>Howard<br>Cherundolo Goodson DeMerit Bocanegra<br>Bradley<br>Dempsey Torres Donovan<br>Altidore Buddle<br><br>Yeah sure, you can maybe put in Edu, Clark, Findley etc...and I think what it proves, is that Bradley does have options and he might have a little more depth than we think.<br><br>My issue with the US is: if it's not going well and you need a game changer, who is that player? <br><br>Also, I am hoping that this world cup concludes with us all having a greater understanding of the style the US plays. I am never really sure how to describe the manner in which the US plays. I need the US to develop a personality on the pitch and I am not sure it has thus far.<br><br>Anyway, all will be revealed soon enough and I will give my tournament predictions at the end of this Kick About for all to digest.<br><br><br><br><br>Is the 2010 FIFA World Cup going to become known as the injury-riddled World Cup before it even starts? Let's look at who will, could, or might be out of this tournament.<br><br>Essien and Ballack were out before it even got started and squads were finalized. Since then: Rio Ferdinand gone for the entire month, Drogba could miss the first couple of group games (which only happen to be against Portugal and Brazil) with a fractured right arm which came from a challenge that should have seen the Japanese player (Marcus Tulio Tanaka) suspended for this tournament, Jon Obi Mikel is out of the entire tournament, and Arjen Robben has had a recurrence of his hamstring problems.<br><br>The World Cup can live without all those guys but one: Didier Drogba. Didier Drogba has essentially become the poster boy for the FIFA 2010 World Cup. He is plastered all over many of the bigger African capitals, he is a larger than life character, and he was recently named to Time Magazines "100 Most Influential People in the World" for the impact that he has in his own country and across the continent of Africa. This World Cup needs Didier Drogba.<br><br><br>When you turn on your TV on Friday for the first game between South Africa and Mexico, you will take a snapshot in your mind of the FIFA 2010 World Cup. Here is how it works. That image will stay with you for the rest of your life. Every World Cup looks and sounds different. I go all the way back to 1970 Mexico, the grainy picture and the electrical humming on the broadcast. Show me any picture of any World Cup since 1970 (actually I have seen enough photos of 1966 you can include 1966) and I can instantly tell you what World Cup it was. They instantly have their own personality.<br><br>Such is the enormity of the World Cup that it stays with you forever and we will over the next month be searching for the memories that will define the FIFA 2010 World Cup.<br><br>Of course, I think a lot of us are more worried about the sound of the FIFA 2010 World Cup. Getting a wee glimpse of the vuvuzelas in yesterday's US game, made me realize that as a viewing spectacle this World Cup, and those horns, could really turn off an American audience.<br><br><br>Feel that, I have to mention the disgraceful scenes outside Anfield on Thursday. Liverpool fans burning the American flag as if we were witnessing scenes from Saigon or some tin pot Middle Eastern capital. The depths and depravity that this set of fans will go to, to make their silly points, has become laughable.<br><br>I am now wondering if they realize at all just how much damage they doing to Liverpool as a club. If you were a potential investor would you want to go anywhere near this club with this type of fan base. No thanks.<br><br>Yeah I know the line...they are a small but loud minority who do not represent all Liverpool fans. But that is the same argument that Muslims use about the Islamic Fundamentalists. Might be what you think, but it is not reality or perception and let's be honest perception is reality. Islamic Fundamentalist when they blow up buildings, fly planes into buildings, and blow people up, they represent the rest of Islam whether Islam likes it or not. The same goes for this ilk of Liverpool fan. They are doing far more harm than good.<br><br>Benitez has gone with a £6 million payout and will surely walk straight into the offices recently vacated by Jose Mourinho at Inter Milan. Meanwhile at Anfield, they made this move to oust Benitez without having a successor in place. Kenny Dalglish as an interim manager, with Roy Hodgson, Martin O'Neil, Sven Goran Erickson (a Liverpool fan) all in the frame to take over the hot seat.<br><br>If I am Martin O'Neil I want nothing to do with Liverpool. Yes they may well be a "big club" but they are a big club in turmoil. Kenny tells me that Torres to Chelsea is nailed on; Gerrard, I believe will choose this time to make his move and most likely abroad to Real Madrid to be with Jose Mourinho and be able to avoid the injunctions and stories about his private life etc.; Javier Mascherano could well go to Real Madrid; Yossi Benayoun could also end up at Chelsea. The likelihood of most of the other Spaniards leaving is not beyond the realm of possibility.<br><br>Additionally, Liverpool is no longer any kind of destination for the better players in the world with the state of the club, the tax issues in England, and the level of football that is likely to be played.<br><br>But really I want to talk to American Liverpool fans: Is it not time to make the decision club or country when your club and its fans are burning your country's flag in public and laughing about it?<br><br>I have had to answer some questions about my loyalties, or lack thereof, for Chelsea (all of which I am very comfortable with so far) and I am seeing more and more cases where people are looking at their clubs, and actions by their clubs or their clubs supporters, and asking themselves if this is really what they stand for. The world and blind faith of the football fan is having a bit of a re-think.<br><br><br>World Football Daily will be broadcasting every single day of the World Cup when there are games. We will only have a day off when the World Cup has a day off.<br><br>The show will be airing/streaming live at 2.30PM Pacific/5.30PM Eastern time every day, so that we can take in all the games before coming on the air.<br><br>We will be launching two terrific competitions this week:<br><br>1. Facebook: we are asking all our World Football Daily Facebook friends for one week to change their Facebook photo/image to the World Football Daily logo that I am hoping will be attached to this Kick About. <br>2. Then please change your status/what's on your mind to "I am listening everyday to World Football Daily for all my World Cup action, scores and commentary" or something like that.<br>3. We will be giving away 50-100 World Football Daily World Cup wall charts randomly so we hope everyone will do this for us for the next week.<br><br>The second competition is not unlike the one we have done for the Champions league the last few years. Fill out the bracket top to bottom. From the first game to the last! The rules breakdown like this:<br><br>1. You have to choose 14/16 countries that get into the Round of 16.<br>2. You have to choose 7/8 teams that advance from the Round of 16 to the Quarter Finals.<br>3. You have to be perfect from the Quarter Finals through the Final to win.<br><br>The winner, if there is one, will win an iPad or the latest iPod, we have not decided quite yet.<br><br>We hope you will get involved with both of these competitions/promotions as every little bit helps in the promotion area.<br><br><br>Lastly, a word and huge props to the LA Galaxy! Without Buddle and Donovan and, yes, and Beckham, they are rolling all over this league.<br><br>They have played 12, won 10, and drawn 2. They are unbeaten with over a third of the season gone, and I am pretty sure that everyone thought that once Landon and Buddle departed on World Cup duty there would a lull in their play. Not so much. Last week they win away at, also unbeaten at the time, Columbus, and on Saturday they dismantled the Houston Dynamo.<br><br>It is amazing what good management can do without the continual circus of one David Beckham, when a team gets to focus on the job at hand and everyone in the squad is treated equally.<br><br>OK here are my World Cup predictions:<br>Group A: Mexico/Uruguay<br>Group B: Argentina/South Korea<br>Group C: England/USA<br>Group D: Germany/Serbia<br>Group E: Netherlands/Cameroon<br>Group F: Italy/Paraguay<br>Group G: Brazil/Ivory Coast<br>Group H: Spain/Chile<br><br>Round of 16:<br>Mexico 2 South Korea 0<br>England 1 Serbia 1 (Serbia win 4-3 on penalties)<br>Germany 2 USA 1<br>Argentina 3 Uruguay 1<br>Netherlands 3 Paraguay 2<br>Brazil 3 Chile 0<br>Italy 1 Cameroon 0<br>Spain 3 Ivory Coast 1<br><br>Quarter Finals:<br>Netherlands 1 Brazil 3<br>Mexico 1 Serbia 2<br>Argentina 3 Germany 1<br>Italy 1 Spain 2<br><br><br><br>Semi Finals:<br>Serbia 0 Brazil 2<br>Argentina 1 Spain 2<br><br>3rd Place Game<br>Serbia 1 Argentina 4<br><br>Final<br>Brazil 1 Spain 2<br><br>By the way: US 1 England 1<br><br><br>John Wooden 1910-2010 RIP.<br>There it is, enjoy the football, and until then.<br>Cheers,<br>Steven.
Steven Cohen
2010-06-08T19:00:00Z
35 Million - The Price is Right?
Stephen Kuzner
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/35-Million---The-Price-is-Right/-787332417247615846.html
2010-06-06T19:00:00Z
2010-06-06T19:00:00Z
by Stephen Kuzner<br><br>Is 35 million a fair fee for Cesc Fàbregas?<br><br>When any key player wants a transfer, he puts his club in an unsettling situation. But it can become downright unnerving if it's your captain. Worse, if you developed him in your system over the last seven years. Worst still, you contracted him to 2015. Arsenal's ideal damage control would be convincing Cesc to stay. But how do you convince someone to stay who wants to play for his boyhood club that is regularly winning Champions Leagues Titles under his childhood hero that gave him a jersey when his parents divorced? <br><br>On the other hand, if you do convince him to stay, will he still lose focus because of a move that did not happen. This type of distraction affected the form of Javier Mascherano in Liverpool this past season. Remember, Liverpool got bumped out of the top four. So whether you call it tapping-up, wooing, tampering, dissatisfaction, or whatever you want to call it, Arsenal's best choice is to sell. <br><br>What has not been talked about much is that Barcelona doesn't have a great need for Cesc. Barcelona doesn't need much help on left side with Iniesta, Pedro, and Keita. Helb may come back from loan and even Villa can play on the wing for flexibility. Not that I am saying pushing Iniesta up to the left wing (his preferred area) and slotting Cesc behind him on the left wouldn't be an upgrade (it definitely would), but Barcelona doesn't need to break the bank for an "unnecessary" upgrade. Barcelona will buy if "The Price is Right".<br><br>That being said, unless Cesc decides he's interested in other clubs outside of Barcelona, the market by definition is Barcelona. Further, Barcelona's price is not that of Real Madrid or Manchester City. So if Barcelona doesn't have to win a bidding war, then 60-70 million is not realistic. If Arsenal doesn't like this "Barcelona market", they don't have to sell, but would be stuck with an unhappy captain. Unless Cesc decides he's interested in clubs other than Barcelona, Arsenal has little leverage in price.<br><br>Precedents mean a lot in negotiations. If we are to look at comparables, Kaka and Ronaldo would be outliers in the market especially in relation to Cesc. These are 2 FIFA World Player of Year Winners who have won the Champions League. Further, their absorbent sums aren't justified having won nothing last year. Again, the 60-70 million for Cesc is unrealistic from Barcelona.<br><br>Better comparables would be David Villa at 40.0 million, Samuel Eto'o at 30 million, Arjen Robben at 25 million, and Wesley Sneijder 15 million. Villa may be the world's best striker or at least top 3-4. Eto'o and Sneijder just won the treble at Inter. And, Robben on his best day is arguably one of the world's top 5 or at least top 10 players in the world. Sneijder is probably the closest comparable to Cesc being a player-maker in his early twenties. <br><br>In this light, 35 million for Cesc may not just be fair in a "Barcelona's Market", but also fair in the market period. If Arsenal does sell to Barcelona, it won't be far of from 35 million. Then again, it is the silly season.
Stephen Kuzner
2010-06-06T19:00:00Z
They Make Our Argument For Us
Rafa Gonzales
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/They-Make-Our-Argument-For-Us/491927155379754872.html
2010-06-03T10:00:00Z
2010-06-03T10:00:00Z
Doesn't it just make you wonder sometimes when you see pictures like this? I mean usually when you see pictures like these the terms terrorists and radicals come to mind. I am not going to label anyone anything here. But I do know that my boss and friend, Steven Cohen served this country and he calls himself an American first always.<br><br> I also think that it is important to remember just how ahead of the curve World Football Daily, Steven Cohen and Kenny Hassan, and the entire movement that sweeps across the nation 5 days a week really is. Wait... I forgot, coming this World Cup, you can expect WFD to go 7 days a week. That's right, we will be broadcasting after the matches every day; even on the weekends, yes. So don't forget to call in after the matches and give us your thoughts on all the World Cup fixtures. <br><br> To be quite honest, I cannot help but have to say, "thank you". Words really are not needed to point out the "facts" here. No list necessary. They just seem to keep making our argument for us.<br><center><br><img src="/images/blog/RedBurn1.jpg" border="0" width="475" /> <img src="/images/blog/RedBurn2.jpg" border="0" width="475" /><br></center>
Rafa Gonzales
2010-06-03T10:00:00Z
Soccer Wrap Up review of WFD
Chris McClintick
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Soccer-Wrap-Up-review-of-WFD/307126034218172810.html
2010-06-03T09:30:00Z
2010-06-03T09:30:00Z
Niccolo from the Soccer Wrap Up blog reviews our show in the following article. Still reluctant to pay the price of a coffee each month for hours upon hours of your daily football fix? Well have a read, sign up, and start enjoying the finest footy show in the United States: <br><br><br>Ever since World Soccer Daily was canceled after some terrible Liverpool hate, quality audio soccer shows were scarce. Thank god World Soccer Daily returned as World Football Daily, and since they aren't on Sirius anymore, they started a payment style. The lads on the show have been so nice to mention SWU on their show, and I feel that I have to let you all know about their fantastic show.<br><br>First of all, here's a link to their website where you can find plenty of preview podcasts, information, and much much more, WFD. While the idea of a payment option may put you off (it put me off at first, and I had been a loyal listener), it's very important to note three things about the show:<br><br><br>1. You are paying for at least one hour and thirty minutes (it usually ends up to be a good two hours) of soccer discussion, monday to friday PLUS tons of added interviews, video segments, and so much more which I will talk about more below.<br><br>2. You are only paying $4.99 a month! That is a very low price if you think about all the hours of quality footy news and analysis.<br><br>3. You are listening to the best of the best, MLS coaches and players, Premiership managers and presidents, USA team players, and journalists of the highest order.<br><br><br>Payment<br><br><br>There are other payment options other than the 4.99 a month, if you want a better deal you can go for 6 months for 19.99 (you're saving 9.95), or you can go for the best deal there is, and that's the yearly deal for 39.99 (you're saving a whopping 19.98). If you're interested, I have gone for the monthly package, but that's only because during the summer I don't have wi-fi when I'm in Italy so I can't receive the podcasts, it's a great system for me because I pay for when I have it.<br><br><br>Guests<br><br><br>Up at point #3 of three important things to know about the show, I mentioned exclusive interviews with the best of the best of the beautiful game, I wasn't kidding. With World Football Daily, you truly get a worldwide spectrum of soccer news, whether it be Andy Brassell filling you in about Europe, Tim Vickery talking about South America, Graham Hunter waxing poetic about Spain, or Grant Wahl explaining MLS in-depth, that's just a few of their amazing selection of journalists who cover the beautiful game. They've also had commentators like Martin Tyler, Andy Gray, and Tim Capel, all giving you high-quality, in-depth views into all matters regarding soccer.<br><br>As for coaches, they've had Harry Redknapp (Tottenham Hotspur), Alex McLeish (Birmingham City), Roberto Martinez (Wigan Athletic) and more. They've also had many professional players like Houston Dynamo forward Brian Ching, first Indian born player to play in the MLS Sunhil Chetri, and Manchester City's Micah Richards.<br><br><br>Overall<br><br>I have to say that World Football Daily is truly the best soccer show I have ever encountered, and while there are other great podcasts like The Gaurdian, The Football Ramble, and others, World Football Daily provides a truly unique coverage that goes on Monday to Friday. It's easy to call into the show to share your opinions with Steven and Kenny, and if you can't call, you can always drop an e-mail and they always read them. They're all over the internet, you can find them on Facebook and Twitter and you should also be aware of their amazing give-aways. If you're looking for a soccer show to listen to which provides an epic amount of coverage, you can stop looking, because World Football Daily's site is right here.
Chris McClintick
2010-06-03T09:30:00Z
Greetings from Behind the Glass
Chris McClintick
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Greetings-from-Behind-the-Glass/-2358807593291154.html
2010-06-03T09:00:00Z
2010-06-03T09:00:00Z
In my previous blog, I briefly touched upon the South African national squad and how much this tournament means to not only them, but also their entire country. Despite the predictions of many, this powerful motivation could very well surprise the other three teams in South Africa's group. A quick glance at the four teams' lineups and one would quickly point to South Africa's squad as the weakest of the four. But like so many things in the world of Football, it's not quite that simple. <br><br>Before South Africa took the pitch against Iraq in their opening match in the Confederations Cup, there was much speculation about the potential of the Bafana Bafana. After extravagant opening ceremonies, few questions were answered following a 0-0 draw against a defensive-minded Iraq. The second match against New Zealand yielded a better result with a 2-0 win, and an encouraging double from Red Star Belgrade (now FC Twente) forward, Bernard Parker. Following two disappointing, yet well-fought defeats to Spain (2:0) and Brazil (1:0 on an 88th minute free-kick by Dani Alves) South Africa found themselves in the third-place match against Spain. <br><br>After 90 minutes South Africa found themselves down 2-1, only to see Katlego Mphela dramatically equalize with a thrashing free kick. Despite their loss in extra time, to yet another set piece from Spain's Xabi Alonso, South Africa had put together a convincing string of results against two of the strongest teams in the world. Surely, Parreira will expect nothing less than performances of this caliber from his team come June 11. <br><br>With the World Cup looming, many seem to be reverting back to similar predictions made about South Africa before the Confederations Cup. Not only did the Confederations Cup provide South Africa with a significant boost of confidence, but they are also coming off of an eleven game unbeaten streak, the latest being a 5-0 thrashing of Guatemala. It would be a grave mistake for teams in Group A to underestimate the talent of the South African-based players in the Squad. Mamelodi Sundowns striker Katlego Mphela, who has scored 15 goals in 29 appearances at the international level, will most likely be starting alongside Bernard Parker who netted in their latest match. This is a strike force chosen by Parreira ahead of South Africa's all-time leading scorer, Benni McCarthy. In the midfield, the in-form Steven Pienaar and the talented Orlando Pirates midfielder, Teko Modise, will be streaking down the wings of pitch providing service for Mphela and Parker to finish. To anchor the backline, South Africa's most-capped player and captain, Aaron Mokoena (Portsmouth), will be paired with the massive Matthew Booth (Mamelodi Sundowns). This is a pairing who caused some of the best strikers in the world trouble, and will certainly try their best to do the same to the likes of Forlan, Vela, and Anelka. <br><br><br>It is quite possible, almost likely, that South Africa will indeed stumble against difficult opposition and fail to reach the knockout stages of the tournament. However, our beloved game has never failed to provide us with the unexpected, and the stage is set for South Africa to do just that. Mexico, France, and Uruguay beware, despite a squad mostly made up with South Africa-based players, the bafana bafana could cause many problems. And with tens of thousands of deafening South Africans behind them, do not be surprised to see the rainbow nation make it through to the knockout rounds of the tournament. As their Carlos Parreira put it, "Once the ball moves, anything can happen." <br><br> -Chris
Chris McClintick
2010-06-03T09:00:00Z
Dear Wife...
Rafa Gonzales
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Dear-Wife.../-509046889788982863.html
2010-06-02T16:00:00Z
2010-06-02T16:00:00Z
Dear Wife/Sweetheart/Girlfriend/Partner/Whomever it may concern,<br><br>1. Between 11 June and 11 July 2010, you should read the sports section of the newspaper so that you are aware of what is going on regarding the South African World Cup, and that way you will be able to join in the conversations. If you fail to do this, then you will be looked at in a bad way, or you will be totally ignored. DO NOT complain about not receiving any attention.<br><br>2. During the World Cup, the television is mine, at all times, without any exceptions. If you even take a glimpse of the remote control, you will lose it (your eye).<br><br>3. If you have to pass by in front of the TV during a game, I don't mind, as long as you do it crawling on the floor and without distracting me.<br><br>4. During the games I will be blind, deaf and mute, unless I require a refill of my drink or something to eat. You are out of your mind if you expect me to listen to you, open the door, answer the telephone, or pick up the baby that just fell on the floor....It won't happen.<br><br>5. It would be a good idea for you to keep at least 2 six packs in the fridge at all times, as well as plenty of things to nibble on (excluding your body parts), and please do not make any funny faces to my friends when they come over to watch the games. In return, you will be allowed to use the TV between 12am and 6am, unless they replay a good game that I missed during the day.<br><br>6. Please, please, please!! If you see me upset because one of my teams is losing, DO NOT say "get over it, it's only a game", or "don't worry, they'll win next time ". If you say these things, you will only make me angrier and I will love you less. Remember, you will never ever know more about football than me and your so called "words of encouragement" will only lead to a break up or divorce.<br><br>7. You are welcome to sit with me to watch one game and you can talk to me during halftime but only when the commercials are on, and only if the half time score is pleasing me. In addition, please note I am saying "one" game; hence do not use the World Cup as a nice cheesy excuse to "spend time together".<br><br>8. The replays of the goals are very important. I don't care if I have seen them or I haven't seen them, I want to see them again, Many times.<br><br>9. Tell your friends NOT to have any babies, or any other child related parties or gatherings that requires my attendance because:<br>a ) I will not go,
<br>b ) I will not go, and<br>
c) I will not go.<br><br>10. But, if a friend of mine invites us to his house on a Sunday to watch a game, we will be there in a flash.<br><br>11. The daily World Cup highlights show on TV every night is just as important as the games themselves. Do not even think about saying "but you have already seen this...why don't you change the channel to something we can all watch?" because, the reply will be, "Refer to Rule #2 of this list".<br><br>12. And finally, please save your expressions such as "Thank God the World Cup is only every 4 years". I am immune to these words, because before and after this comes the Champions League, Premier League, Italian League, Spanish League, KPL, FA Cup, Euro Cup, etc.<br><br>P/S<br>By the way if you get stuck on the road call the Police or AA.<br>Thank you for your co-operation.
Rafa Gonzales
2010-06-02T16:00:00Z
The Dressing Down
Kenny Hassan
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/The-Dressing-Down/224797813806964681.html
2010-05-31T18:00:00Z
2010-05-31T18:00:00Z
Well it's here, the month of June 2010, the World Cup in South Africa begins. By the time most of you read this (in less than 2wks!) and by the time I get to write another newsletter, we will have already seen the hosts open the tournament against Mexico, a probable loss for Bafana in many peoples minds but I'm not so sure myself. I'll go with a draw -- Pienaar, Modise, Parker and Booth can hold their own in front of the home crowd. Uruguay may not be on the greatest form recently and may also be lucky enough to draw a lackluster French squad, who should have done the right thing and taken Laurent Blanc with them and left Domenech at home to figure out a better way to propose to his girlfriend -- sacre bleu! The second day of action will see my pick (my logical pick, that is) Argentina take on Nigeria, a match that should see some physical play and some wonderful skill by Messi, Milito, and Di Maria, a trio that will be too much for the African team. South Korea will play former European Champions Greece in which will most likely be the first "snoozer" game of the tournament, a draw. Then, we have the big one. England vs USA, in Rustenberg. England are coming off a very lucky friendly against Japan, which they won 2-1 courtesy of the Japanese scoring all 3 goals. Of course, if second half performances were how you judged a team, then none better than Coach Bradley's boys' combined effort against Turkey at the weekend when they fought back from a shambolic first half effort to seal the win with goals by Altidore, that's right I said it, ALTIDORE scored, and of course Fulham talisman Clint Dempsey notched the other. Phew!!!...that was a close one, they were really, really fortunate not to be down by 4 at the interval. Hiddink will not be happy with the Turkish finishing. Algeria will play Slovenia in the other group game that day, which is an interesting one if either team win it, and of course the USA get beat by England -- which they will -- it puts an incredible amount of pressure on the US squad for the Slovenia game. Immense pressure. Germany will beat the Socceroos, and Serbia will push Ghana all the way in a 2-2 draw and, maybe for me, one of the better opening games. I have a feeling like Steven does, Serbia could spring a surprise on us.<br><br><br>So there you have it, a quick preview of many wrong predictions by myself between now and the next time we connect through the WFD newsletter.<br><br>The World Cup really does bring back so many vivid football memories when it comes around every 4 years. I always cast my mind back and try to visualize the look of the tournament, the build up on TV, geographically where these countries are even located, how old I was, and how I was trying to gauge who these great men were only days away from battle; which clubs did they play for and in what country? The list was endless trying to piece together the greatest of all greatest sporting jigsaws.<br><br>I was born the month prior to England's victory at Wembley in 1966, a 4-2 win over arch rivals West Germany. Of course, if Gottfried Dienst, the Swiss ref, had any clue how to position himself on a football pitch, that result could have been oh so different. It did, mind you, catapult Sir Alf Ramsey to greatness with his belief in the 4-4-2 system.<br><br>1970, I was 4 so don't recall much of that one, although apparently Brazil faired rather well. So well that people are still in awe of that astounding Pele-led team. Its all opinion I guess when it boils right down to it, but for me, this is the THE team of all time.<br><br>1974 was special. I understood football, hey, I was 8 now, a man in some corners of the globe. I had even picked out my own position on the field (it would change by the next WC) right-half, the old #4, a Billy Bremner type, that's who I was, hard, industrious, and a gifted passer of the ball -- at 8.<br><br>The TV in our living room now had something it had never showed me before, ever -- It had colour pictures on it!! And the Dutch were orange, really, really bright orange. Man, it was heaven. Scotland had drawn Yugoslavia, Zaire.....and Brazil, who were really, really yellow. This colour TV was well worth the money, in my 8 year old eyes, that my Dad seemed to be constantly reminding everyone it was a 'fortune' to buy. Unbeaten in the tournament but still went out, such is the story attached to my country and its efforts at big tournaments.<br>Not the Dutch mind you, the really, really orange team were playing a football style my inexperienced 8 year old eyes had never seen before, and according to the commentators, neither had they. Surely it was their competition to lose, I mean the only thing that could possibly stop them would be a team full of players from a club that were out to avenge what was taking place, in the Premier club get together every year. That would be the European Cup, that would be the greats from Bayern Munchen, and that would be trying to stop the juggernaut that was Ajax. Incredible European Cup football led to incredible World Cup games in the early to mid 70's and of course after the Dutch took a very early lead through Neeskens, Breitner and wee Gerd Muller sealed it for West Germany in front of the great English ref, Jack Taylor.<br><br>1978 was my year, hey, I was 12, I had moved on from that old right-half position and was now a left-half! That's right, I was two footed now. That came around because the tournament that year was being held in military-run Argentina, who were somewhat favourites. But to play in the final match, they had to beat Peru by 4 and did by 6 in a game that is still considered the fix of all fixes. Scotland had drawn those really, really orange guys and went on to beat them with an Archie Gemmell wonder goal, an instant hero in Scotland the minute he weaved his way through the Dutch defense to score one of the most remarkable World Cup goals ever.<br><br>Mario Kempes had been the top scorer in La Liga for Valencia and my eyes have never been so mesmerized by a left footer since, not Maradona or Messi, but Kempes, he put me in a trance, and at that time my Dad told me, "If you want to be great at this great game, you better play with both feet and that guy Kempes has the best left foot of them all"....so I tried as hard as you can at 12 to copy him. He didn't let me down either, he was the star of the tournament and will always, always be a big part of the players I can't get out of my mind. Superlative skill.<br><br><br>'82 saw Brazil not win it, but they should have because they were sublime. Italy beat West Germany 3-1 at the Bernabeu and really great overall play by Rossi and Tardelli. <br><br>'86 was Maradona, Maradona, and even more Maradona. The 'Hand of God' goal will always come up, but he did some truly incredible things with the ball at those games and hence put himself in the same sentence for many, as Pele. What do you know? West Germany in the final again, this time losing 3-2 to goals by Brown, Valdano, and Burruchaga. Epic tournament for Diego Maradona, no question.<br><br>'90 was not my thing to be honest, a late Andreas Brehme penalty in Rome saw West Germany see off Argentina in a rematch from 4 years prior.<br><br>'94 was interesting because I actually attended. The US did a superb job, as expected, of hosting the games, and in a drab final Brazil took care of Italy in penalties 3-2.<br><br>The more recent World Cups are probably etched in your own minds, so I would encourage any of the audience to go ahead and write in and tell your own story, or even better yet, call in and let's have some WC memories start to fill the airwaves as soon as we can.<br><br>Anyone wishing to cover their country or any other in a preview is welcome to contact the show and we will be glad to find a spot for you somewhere. Don't forget that WFD is going to be on-air every single day the WC is on, yes!....even weekends! That's commitment from the crew right there. Shows will start a little bit later in the afternoon right after the games have been played which gives you, the listener, maximum coverage as it happens, and of course the real benefit is, you get the chance to call in right away and get on the line and get your take on the match -- live on-air.<br><br>Don't forget if you are in the Los Angeles area for the Eng/USA game, I'll be at the Capitol City Sports Bar in Hollywood with a film crew documenting all the action as it happens from a US perspective, and Steven will be close by at XIV doing the exact same thing from an English side of the coin. Should make for great content that Casey will put together for the video side of the broadcast.<br><br><br><br>Speak soon everyone,<br>Kenny.
Kenny Hassan
2010-05-31T18:00:00Z
World Football Daily at US v Cech Republic
Premium Subscriber Monty
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/World-Football-Daily-at-US-v-Cech-Republic/-951638543840954886.html
2010-05-26T18:15:00Z
2010-05-26T18:15:00Z
Hey WFD Crew,<br><br>As goofie as these pictures are, WFD did make it to the Hartford, CT game. I wish I could have snapped a picture of Boca, Landon, Clint and the other four having dinner in their press box instead of on the field.<br>Hope the memberships are going well.<br>All the best!<br><br>Monty
Premium Subscriber Monty
2010-05-26T18:15:00Z
Greetings from Behind the Glass Part 3
Casey Keirnan
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Greetings-from-Behind-the-Glass-Part-3/382649129269173002.html
2010-05-25T22:33:00Z
2010-05-25T22:33:00Z
So I'm standing in my living room talking to my roommate one afternoon after school when my phone rings. It is a 323 number that I don't recognize and I say to my friend, "Who is this?" He doesn't know and neither do I and I don't usually answer calls from strange numbers but for some reason I had a funny feeling about the call so I took a chance and answered it. "Hello?" I said into the phone and out the other end came a very familiar voice, "Hello Casey?!" I absolutely couldn't believe it, it was Steven Cohen from World Football Daily. He was calling to tell me that I "got the job" and to get my ass down there on Monday of the following week! I was so excited I could barely contain myself. I literally called everyone who was close to me - relatives, girlfriend, friends - to tell them that a literal dream had come true and I was going to be interning at the radio show that I spent EVERY day of my life listening to and obsessing over. The previous day Steven and Kenny had mentioned that their producer Rafael Gonzales was becoming a bit spread thin and that he needed help behind the glass. So, when I got home the FIRST thing I did was jump on the computer and email Steven - now the very next day I am a part of the WFD crew! Hold on, hold on...let me back up a second and tell you how I got into this whole soccer thing to begin with. I moved to California from where my heart still resides (Texas) to attend film school at one of the fine universities they have. Growing up I had had a few friends who were obsessed with soccer and who tried to get me into the whole thing but it just never stuck. Then when I moved to California (with nothing to do) I bought the FIFA 07 video game and to be honest, THAT is what got me into the sport. I know, I know, it is a bit embarrassing but if I'm to be honest, a video game introduced this all American boy to the world's sport. From there I caught a few games on the TV, started attending Galaxy matches and the rest is history.<br> <br>My induction to soccer began in 2007 and by the beginning of 2008 it had become a full on obsession. With my television constantly tuned to Fox Soccer Channel I invariably stumbled upon Fox Football Fone-in. Now there was what I had been looking for! FFF was a smart show with some personality that delved into football on a deeper level than Sky Sports or FSR. What really kept me watching though was the pundit on the left - Steven Cohen. I would tune in every Monday to hear what he and Webster had to say about the past week's action and was gutted when I found out that they went off the air every summer! With NO WHERE to turn to I begrudgingly checked out the radio show/podcast that Steven was always promoting on FFF called World Soccer Daily. I was DEFINITELY not a podcaster or even a casual radio talk show person at the time and was understandably apprehensive about what I would find. What I found, however, was a show that was infinitely better than what I was getting over on Fox AND it was 5 days a week! WSD was a show where I could hear Steven speak his mind without the censorship of FSC and some random Scotsman named Kenny Hassan replaced Nicky Webster. Soon, World Soccer Daily became an integral part of my daily life and my enjoyment and fandom of listening to the thoughts of Steven Cohen was quickly being rivaled and almost equaled by Kenny Hassan. I could not wait to hear the boys every day in my car and soon I came to know and love the personalities of Steven, Kenny and their producer Rafael.<br> <br>Then came that dreaded day on August 21st 2009 when - unexpectedly for the listeners - World Soccer Daily announced it was no more. I was completely gutted. My car (not to mention my days) felt totally empty without the show and I could not understand for the life of me why it HAD to go. I sent many futile emails across the net and chatted on many message boards but to no avail. Of course, as we all know World Football Daily was announced just 10 days later and when it went on the air I was one of the first 20 people to subscribe. So, needless to say, when I got hired on as an intern it was unequivocally a dream come true. Sure it was radio and not TV or film but it was still a dream come true. My first days at the show were surreal and it took - no joke - about 3 months for me to get over the "star-struckness" of hanging out with Steven and Kenny. During the first time we all went out for lunch (sort of my get-to-know-you lunch) I remember thinking that just a week prior I had to call in the show, possibly try over and over because of busy lines and wait on hold just to get the boys' opinion on a footballing matter and now all I had to do was turn my head and say, "Hey, what do you think about blah, blah, blah", completely surreal.<br> <br> Almost immediately after starting work behind the glass and began learning the ropes at WFD I had to leave for a dream vacation in England during which I would be attending 2 Premier League matches and seeing the sights. It suddenly occurred to me that if I brought my camera and microphone and produced some sort of a story - like an NPR or Sky Sports reporter - while I was over there then maybe the guys would put it on the site. This was my big chance to integrate my video skills/interest into my work at WFD! What I brought back home with me was "Casey In England" (which you can still see in the Featured Highlights tab) and my status as official camera/video person of World Football Daily was born. Since those days in mid December, my time at World Football Daily has been unforgettable. My time spent carpooling with Kenny, learning from Rafa, having lunch with Steven and forming a close bond with James while sharing the role as the "new guys" has become a chapter in my life that I will never forget. Over the past six months we have accomplished a lot with the show (supporters groups segments and MLS 2010) and we have SO many projects that are in the works - not to mention that I have enough candid footage from behind the scenes to make a hilarious blooper-reel. I am truly grateful for my time spent so far at World Football Daily and I look forward to whatever lies ahead.
Casey Keirnan
2010-05-25T22:33:00Z
The Dressing Down
Steven Cohen
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/The-Dressing-Down/362005935827777347.html
2010-05-23T16:30:00Z
2010-05-23T16:30:00Z
Well the club season has finally come to an end after another amazing 10-month journey that we have all had the privilege to be a part of and it is our honor at World Football Daily to guide you on the journey.<br><br>It all ended, as we knew it would with either Inter Milan or Bayern Munich winning a treble, and as it turned out it was Jose Mourinho's treble. He led Inter to a Serie A title, a Coppa Italia championship, and closed their season with a 2-0 victory in the Champions League Final in Madrid and did so convincingly. <br><br>Lots to mention about what happened and some milestones reached. <br><br>Inter won their third European Cup/Champions League having won it previously in 1964 and 1965. They are also the first team in Italy to ever win The Treble.<br><br>Jose Mourinho becomes the youngest manager to win the European Cup/Champions League with two different clubs (Porto in 2004 was the other and Omar Hitzfeld with Borussia Dortmund and Bayern Munich and Ernst Happel did it with Feyernord and Hamburger SV.) Mourinho is making no bones or secrets that he wants to do it with three different clubs and he has without doubt coached Inter Milan for the last time. He will sign a 4 year deal worth £40 million with Real Madrid this week and it truly boggles the mind what he will be able to do with players like Ronaldo, Kaka, Higuain, Karim Benzema et al. Will he raid Inter Milan and bring back Wesley Sneijder, Maicon has already making noises that eh wants to go with Mourinho to Real Madrid. Or might he go and pick up someone like Steven Gerrard or Frank Lampard, which is also being rumored.<br><br>The thing about Jose Mourinho and why he is the best coach in the world is really simple. Yes he is a great tactician and man manager but it is the belief that he instills in his teams. Porto come from nowhere and won everything, he fell just short in Europe with Chelsea but led them to two Premier League titles (their first in 50 years) as well as FA Cups and Carling Cups. And now with Inter he has taken them to the next level. He inspires, he makes players believe and he will quite easily become the greatest manager of all time by the time he is done.<br><br>People say that he is only good with a checkbook and that he does not build sides and teams. I would say differently and I think that what he does stays with a team and those players long after he is gone. Frank Lampard is the greatest example of that in my opinion.<br><br>One last thing on Mourinho and what he has done in Italy while at Inter Milan. By winning the Champions League he and Inter saved Italy from losing there forth Champions League spot. So while the media apparently will be happy to see the back of him, he really has left his mark and as he put it "his work is done in Italy."<br><br>Add to that the signing by Barcelona of David Villa from Valencia this week and proposed signing of Cesc Fabregas from Arsenal and I think it is becoming pretty clear that Spain is fast becoming the go to league in world football. Spain is going to be the league to be watching next season, of that there is no question.<br><br>Samuel Eto'o has won the treble two years in a row. Obviously last year with Barcelona and this year with Inter Milan...pretty certain that has never been done.<br><br>Javier Zanetti played his 700th game for Inter Milan in Madrid on Saturday. Not a bad way to ring up number 700 by picking up the Champions League trophy.<br><br>I do not see how the Balon D'Or and World Footballer of the Year go to anyone but Diego Milito. He scored all the big goals. The goal to win Coppa Italia vs. Roma! He scored the goal last weekend at Siena that secured the title, and his brace in Madrid to win the cup with the big ears. Not sure what else he could do. He is a striker and he scores really big goals and it is only amazing to think that Maradona was going to leave him out of the Argentina squad preferring Boca Juniors Martin Palermo. In the end he is taking both and rightfully so.<br><br>The broadcast on Fox was pretty good as well. Curt Menefee looked pretty good and even sounded as if he had a passing knowledge for the game. Not sure about Bruce Arena or Eric Wynalda. Not sure what they really brought to the proceedings except to verify that they truly do not care for each other and of course Martin Tyler and Andy Grey were terrific. Nobody gets hurt when they do a game together. <br><br>All told it was a good day and especially for the US Soccer fan who got to see a game of such magnitude in HD and on network television...a serious first for America. Well-done Fox!<br><br>In the other huge game that was played on Saturday but this time at Wembley in front of 83,000 fans was the right to play off for the chance to land in the Premier League.<br><br>After a 39 year absence from the top flight of English football little old Blackpool will be visiting Old Trafford, The Emirates, Anfield and Stamford Bridge and even more wonderful all the Premier League teams will be visiting Bloomfield Road which only holds about 16,000 seats. The Seasiders are coming to the big time.<br><br>They beat Cardiff City at Wembley 3-2. All goals came in the first half and some of the goals were terrific although it should be mentioned that some of defending was pretty unbelievable. The second half was not nearly as good but Blackpool although dead tired hung on and won and in addition to a spot in the Premier League they are now guaranteed £90 million over the next 5 years. They have literally hit the lottery.<br><br>Great credit to Ian Holloway the Blackpool manager who is a quote machine and will be great value for money in the Premier League. http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11689_6167787,00.html<br><br>He has bounced around in the lower leagues managing at Bristol Rovers, QPR, Plymouth Argyle and Leicester City before landing at Blackpool in May 2009. His only mission from the Chairman was to keep them in the Championship. A full year later he has got them to the Premier League. He is one of the footballs good guys and a real personality.<br><br>He is a very high profile campaigner for deaf issues and concerns as 3 or his 4 children are severely deaf. You are going to like Ian Holloway next season and you are going to like Blackpool Football Club and their see of tangerine.<br><br>Nice to see David Beckham visiting the British soldiers in Afghanistan. If I did not know better I would have thought that he has retired from football. Surely he should be in LA rehabbing under the watchful eye of the club that own his rights and are paying his salary.<br><br>MLS had a more spread out schedule than in previous weeks and some of the stories are becoming quite big and taking on a life of their own. With some teams having played 10 games we are at the one-third mark of the season.<br>DC United is a disaster having won just once in 9 games and all the others are losses not even a couple of draws. You do wonder for Curt Onalfo as they are already 14 points behind Columbus in the east and 10 points behind Toronto who would be the 3rd playoff team from east if at all ended today. Of course it doesn't all end today and DC United have 21 games to get something going.<br><br>The Red Bulls have just lost their second in a row at home to Seattle and Columbus respectively.<br><br>LA leads the league by some margin but with Buddle and Donovan gone on World Cup duty will be very interesting to see where their scoring is going to come from.<br><br>Seattle lost at home to San Jose, which was a shock any way you look at it as the Sounders have only won 3 times in 10 game. New England is really struggling as well. They won 2 or their first 3 (the loss was to the Galaxy on opening day) but since then have drawn 2 and lost 5.<br><br>Now our attention turns to the World Cup. The festivities kick off in 18 days in South Africa. This week will see a bunch of international friendlies as coaches start to look to reduce their squads by June 1st to 23 players. <br><br>Of course some managers like Dunga with Brazil did not even bother with a squad of 30. He knows his team, he knows who got him there and could Dunga be about to join that very rare group of men who have won the world cup as a player and a manager. There are only two: Franz Beckenbauer and Mario Zagallo. Of course Beckenbauer was the only one to captain a winning side and manage a winning side. Dunga who was Brazil's captain in 1994 would join The Kaiser in a very elite group.<br><br>Congratulations to Toluca in Mexico for wining the Mexican title on penalties against Santos Laguna...or so Kenny tells me.<br><br>One new thing that we are now offering at World Football Daily is the six-month special for a mere $19.99. So if you are not sure about the yearlong commitment we just sorted you out. Grab the 6-month subscription and we will get you through the World Cup and well into the start of the new seasons. Just climb on board.<br><br>Don't forget to check out of new website and download our very own WFD mobile application.<br><br>We will be doing some sort of show every single day of the World Cup when there are matches. So I think for the entire month on the tournament we will do some sort of show on all but 6 days and we might even do those days as well so we can set up some the big knock out stage matches. So we will be upping the ante on our end and now we just need and want you to become loyal members and subscribers to what is still the only daily radio broadcast in English anywhere in the world that is exclusively dedicated to football.<br><br>But bear in mind that our shows during the World Cup will be beginning every day at around 2.30pm Pacific/5.30pm Eastern so that we can watch all the watches and then come in and talk about them.<br><br>18 days until the festivities in South Africa begin.<br>Until then...<br>Steven
Steven Cohen
2010-05-23T16:30:00Z
THE WORLD CUP, TRANSLATED INTO AMERICAN
Brenden Hunt
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/THE-WORLD-CUP,-TRANSLATED-INTO-AMERICAN/-398237412369274643.html
2010-05-21T16:30:00Z
2010-05-21T16:30:00Z
If you're American, soccer probably isn't your cuppa tea. But, due to ESPN's admirably relentless promotion (they'll be unleashing their three Big B's: Bob Ley, Bill Simmons and Bono), you're probably at least a little curious about the World Cup, if you're a sports fan anyway. But when it comes to going the extra mile and actually learning about all the teams, perhaps that sounds like something for which you can't be bothered.<br><br>I'm here to help.<br><br>What follows is a list of every one of the World Cup's 32 teams, alongside the American sports team it most parallels. Some of these analogies are slightly better than tenuous. Some of them are dead-on. All of them are at least a decent starting point to give you a frame of reference. <br><br>(This next bit is the part where I explain the process and criteria. It's skippable if you're already too curious.) <br><br>First of all, at all times I used the soccer teams themselves as a starting point, so as to assure that I was going off of their qualities and not just what I want them to be. For example, I didn't just ask "Who is the most like the Vancouver Canucks?" This would have been the wrong way to go. <br><br>In that vein, I also eschewed trying to fill out US rivalries. For example, if I'd equated someone to the Chicago Cubs (I didn't) I wouldn't have then tried to find that team's rival and make them the St. Louis Cardinals. That would have been a most unsavory shoehorning.<br><br>One criteria was to look at how good the given team was, both on a World Cup scale, as well as in their respective regions and their given confederation tournaments. More weight was given to having won Europe or South America, slightly less was given to titles in CONCACAF and the rest. <br><br>Another question was "are they good?" and also "when were they good?" This would help to give a historical frame of reference for the team and their fan base. <br><br>The general personality of the team and their fans over the years was also a consideration; do they have a recognized playing style, for example? Are their fans particularly insufferable? <br><br>So overall, I tended to look at the historical totality of a team or a franchise, and not try to make them immediate match-ups for this exact moment in time. <br><br>Then, when in doubt, I just went with the color of their unis. <br><br>And that's about it. The descriptions of the teams are also intentionally vague, so as to keep them applicable to both teams in the equation.<br><br>I welcome your constructive suggestions where I could get this one or that one even more perfect. <br><br>And with that, here we go .<br> <br><br><br><br>1. ALGERIA <br><br><br><br>They are not good. At all. And they're obsessed with their more-successful neighbors. Not to say that they don't have some degree of history to hang their hat on, but... that was a while ago. And no one, outside of their fans, remembers anymore. This team is easily underestimated. Too easily, I fear.<br><br><br>ALGERIA = THE NEW JERSEY NETS<br><br>2. ARGENTINA<br><br><br><br><br>They've been good for about as long as the game has been played. They have so much history that your default expectation is for them to always be good, even great. But the reality doesn't support that: they haven't won anything in around twenty years. They haven't been horrible (usually), but they have not at all lived up to the greatness of their traditions. Supposedly, this will be the year when they restore the luster. But we've been hearing that for a loooooooooooong time.<br><br><br><br>ARGENTINA = THE WASHINGTON REDSKINS<br><br>3. AUSTRALIA<br><br><br><br><br>This team used to be almost completely insignificant, and were shown a thorough lack of respect. But then they moved*, and since then they have taken on an unshakable legitimacy, evolving into an opponent that must be taken very seriously indeed. Their fans are vocal, though most people in the area prefer (their) football.<br><br>AUSTRALIA = THE MEMPHIS GRIZZLIES<br>(* In 2005 Australia switched allegiances, leaving the ineffectual Oceania region for the more competitive Asian confederation.)<br><br>4. BRAZIL<br><br><br><br><br>If we were to go strictly in terms of dominance, we would have to go with the Yankees, or even the Canadiens. But Brazil is more than dominance, they are also glamor, style and exuberance. They are known for their amazing offensive displays, but this overshadows a history of champions who have relied on defense to kick-start those attacks. Plus they have yellow shirts. I mean... there's only one choice here, right?<br><br>BRAZIL = THE LOS ANGELES LAKERS<br><br><br>5. CAMEROON<br><br><br><br><br>A powerhouse from a medium conference who are making noise that they are ready to finally step up into the championship picture. No one knows for sure until they do it, of course, but they've been around the block enough that it's no longer a crazy idea. They're fun to watch and easy to root for. (They're also innovative with the external trappings of the game, so to speak.)<br><br>CAMEROON = THE BOISE STATE BRONCOS<br><br><br>6. CHILE<br><br><br><br><br>A team for whom recent natural disasters overshadow the trivialities of sport. A fan base for whom their team means more now than it ever did before. A team that has never won anything at all from a land with a distinctive physical shape. A high-octane offense. For the rest of us, a sentimental favorite, a team we wouldn't mind seeing rise above. (And one of only two entries that will have a specific time period attached to them).<br><br>CHILE = THE NEW ORLEANS SAINTS<br>(POST-KATRINA/PRE-SUPER BOWL)<br><br>7. DENMARK<br><br><br><br><br>A respected team with a tradition of consistently making the big tournaments, where you always have to take them seriously. Occasionally throws a truly great team together, though even then they usually fall short. Finally won (a) big one in the '90s, and that probably wasn't even their best-ever team. Generally associated with one long-serving head coach named Olsen. Or Olson. <br><br>DENMARK = ARIZONA WILDCATS BASKETBALL<br><br><br>8. ENGLAND<br><br><br><br><br>Man oh man do their fans talk a lotta shit. A LOTTA shit. Not so much in praise of themselves as raggin' on other squads. Way too much for a team that's won it all exactly one time, and that was way back in the '60s. Since then, they haven't even finished second. Yet they talk and talk and deify the main man behind that '60s win. As opposed to their local tabloids, who take every chance they can to tear the team apart one day, while predicting impending championships the next. This team will almost always fall before the final hurdle, but... their current coach might just be the perfect man for this team. He has them playing better than they've played in decades, behind a mix of veterans and one gifted youngster whose performance will be the primary determining factor of where they finish. Still, you generally have to assume that they will buckle under the double burdens of incredible media pressure and inescapable history.<br><br>ENGLAND = THE NEW YORK JETS<br><br><br>9. FRANCE<br><br><br><br><br>Some undeniably great players have been on this blue-clad team, a team that has provided the sport with some of its defining matches and greatest plays. But something about them drives the neutral fan crazy. Almost nobody who's not from there roots for them, which they bring on themselves for being a little snooty, and by so often being the recipient of grossly questionable calls by the refs.<br><br>FRANCE = THE DUKE BLUE DEVILS<br>(I mean, come on. The dude even looks French.)<br><br>10. GERMANY<br><br><br><br><br><br><br>They may not have won the big game the most times, but they're close. And no one's been to that game more than them. They're hard to root for if you're not from there, moreso than France, even. That's partly cultural, sure, but it's mostly because they do so much damn winning (especially in the '70s and '90s). The team is always made up of a combination of straight-laced leaders and absolute looney-tunes. It's dysfunctional but seems to work. One of the all-time great squads, like 'em or not.<br><br>GERMANY = THE DALLAS COWBOYS<br><br>11. GHANA<br><br><br><br><br>Sadly there is no American sports entity that matches the gravitas of Ghana's nickname, The Black Stars. So, as we shall do with another African team, let's just try to define them by their on-field situation.<br><br><br>They have a longer history of being good than people give them credit for and, while they haven't won anything lately, their current team might be the baddest, deepest squad they've ever had, man-for-man. They play fast and physical and on their day they can beat anybody.<br><br>GHANA = THE ATLANTA HAWKS<br><br><br>12. GREECE<br><br><br><br><br>A team of no importance until they came out of nowhere to win a title, early in the 21st century, that was won almost entirely on defense. Before that, they sucked. Now they suck again. Still dangerous D though.<br><br>GREECE = THE TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS<br><br><br>13. HOLLAND<br><br><br><br><br>From a land of free spirits comes a team who will never be able to completely let slip of the long-hair hippie image their greatest sides exuded. They're not in the list of never-wons, but they're not quite among the all-time greats either, as they've fallen victim to a) some of the greatest performances ever, b) some gut-wrenching choke jobs and c) some horrible injuries to players who could have been all-time greats. Still, this is a widely admired team, respected for the way they play the game and their amazing fans.<br><br>HOLLAND = THE PORTLAND TRAIL BLAZERS<br><br>14. HONDURAS<br><br><br><br><br>They were really good in 1981. Haven't really made noise since, until now. They're adorable! Who would root against these irascible underdogs!?!<br><br>HONDURAS = THE MILWAUKEE BREWERS<br><br>15. ITALY<br><br><br><br><br>Italy are a tough one. At first I wanted to go New York Giants. Both have won titles sporadically since the '30s. Both wear blue. Both are built on a commitment to defense. Both won the big one in the '80s and in this decade. But in the end I had to go with a team that better fits their current personality and identity.<br><br><br>A team that has had tremendous success this decade, despite constant underestimation from the media, who always seem to think this squad is too old and not talented enough. But the thing is: they don't give a fuck what the media says. When their opponent makes a mistake they pounce, with a surgical accuracy and unspeakable togetherness. They're not afraid of a well-timed flop and not one of their players has ever, EVER committed a foul. They focus on D and do whatever it takes to win. Whatever it takes.<br><br>ITALY = THE SAN ANTONIO SPURS<br><br>16. IVORY COAST<br><br><br><br><br>Y'know, in the '80s, they were okay for a little while. Since then they haven't done much, which is a shame, since they're from a depressed region that could use the pick-me-up. But this current team might be special. I say "might" because, though people love to watch them and talk them up like they've already won something... they haven't. The thing is... they've got this one dude... and this dude is a freak. I mean, he's big and strong, but also fast and nimble. Everything they do runs through him. When he turns it on, you can see it in his eyes; he's unstoppable. You do not want to be a defender looking up to see this dude bearing down on you. That would be truly scary. If it happened to me, I would poop.<br><br>IVORY COAST = THE CLEVELAND CAVALIERS <br>(NOTE - I am NOT saying Drogba is the Soccer LeBron. But their teams do depend on each of them in a similar way. And they're both bad-ass dudes.)<br><br>17. JAPAN<br><br><br><br><br>A team that has come to dominate its humble region the last couple decades or so. But they don't make a dent in the big dance, despite amazing hair.<br><br>JAPAN = GONZAGA<br><br>18. MEXICO<br><br><br><br><br>This side is a big player in a small conference. In fact they have basically owned their conference since the damn thing started. But when it comes to matching up with the big boys, they fall wayyyyy short, almost every time. Also, they have a tendency to employ combustible coaches who try to assault the other team. Finally, their logo prominently features a winged bird of displeasure.<br><br>MEXICO = TEMPLE BASKETBALL<br><br>19. NEW ZEALAND<br><br> <br><br>A bunch of squirrelly, over-matched, mostly white guys with dodgy haircuts, who play with so much heart that they just might cause some trouble for a big team. But overall, these irrepressible scamps are basically just happy to be there.<br><br>NEW ZEALAND = NORTHERN IOWA<br><br>20. NIGERIA<br><br><br><br><br>This team has a degree of success that any reasonable fan base would be happy to have. But this team's fans are tired of disappointment, tired of seeing generation after generation of great players fail the final hurdle. This of course just compounds the problem, putting undue pressure on a very talented group of players who should be appreciated more for what they have accomplished than derided for what they have not.<br><br>NIGERIA = THE PHILADELPHIA EAGLES<br>(Nigeria's team is also nicknamed the Super Eagles, which helps.)<br><br>21. NORTH KOREA<br><br><br><br>Isolated. Military. Probably not very honest with their fans about their chances. Will not be around the tournament long.<br><br>NORTH KOREA = THE CITADEL BASKETBALL<br><br>22. PARAGUAY<br><br><br><br><br>An unassuming team from an unassuming (and not heavily populated) part of the world. Not a huge threat, but no pushover, either.<br><br>PARAGUAY = IOWA HAWKEYES FOOTBALL<br><br>23. PORTUGAL<br><br><br><br><br>I'm not quite a journalist, I don't have to be that impartial, so let me just confess that Portugal are probably my least favorite team in the world. Not just in soccer- in all of sports. I might hate them as much as I hate the Packers and Vikings combined. They are classless crybabies and divers, and have been so since at least Euro 2000. They prance and preen, but they've never won a damn thing, which is problematic since they are HORRIBLE losers. Their best player comes off as a Hall of Fame douchebag, despite his exemplary skills. Their coach is an outmatched drone. Despite all this, they are in the upper echelon right now, always a legitimate threat. But be sure: no one likes them. This one was easy.<br><br>PORTUGAL = THE SAN DIEGO CHARGERS<br><br>24. SERBIA<br><br><br><br><br>Fast. Strong. High-scoring. Well-organized. Always dominant on the way to tournament, always likely to fall apart once they get there.<br><br>SERBIA = THE SAN JOSE SHARKS<br><br>25. SLOVAKIA<br><br><br>SLOVAKIA = THE FLORIDA PANTHERS<br><br><br>Ummmm... Both were founded in 1993. Yes. Yes, that will do.<br><br>26. SLOVENIA<br><br> <br><br><br>There used to be a different team here, a much better one, but they're gone now. They do have tradition, but expectations are low for this expansion team in green and white.<br><br>SLOVENIA = THE MINNESOTA WILD<br>(NOTE -Those different teams were Yugoslavia and the Minnesota North Stars, who don't get mentioned in<br>the same sentence often, so enjoy it.)<br><br>27. SOUTH AFRICA<br><br><br><br><br>Obviously, it is pretty impossible to equate South Africa and everything going on there with a mere American sports team. So let's just say that, in strictly sporting terms, they are a team that isn't very strong, from a less than dominant conference, on an ongoing journey of releasing themselves of a tragic history. The sort of team for whom you can't help but cheer, though victory will likely elude them.<br><br>SOUTH AFRICA = THE MARSHALL UNIVERSITY THUNDERING HERD<br><br><br>28. SOUTH KOREA<br><br><br><br><br>Haven't been around all that long. Amazing fans. Incredibly fast-paced offense. Tireless. Relentless. But on D? Can't stop anybody. Won't stop anybody. Side note: local government is very concerned about border control.<br><br>SOUTH KOREA = THE PHOENIX SUNS<br><br>(NOTE - At time of writing, the Suns are inconveniently ripping through the NBA playoffs. If they win the title, I will revise this. But not before.)<br><br>29. SPAIN<br><br><br><br><br>After decades of torturing their fans with mind-boggling losses and historical disappointments, they finally got their shit together last time out and brought home a trophy. All the tortured ghosts are now banished. They still basically have that same side together and had another dominant regular season. What now? Can they keep it going? Will the removal of their back-monkey set them forever free, or was it a blip, with more harrowing failure waiting around the corner? We're gonna find out, starting now. La maldición ha sido invertida!<br><br>SPAIN = THE 2005 BOSTON RED SOX<br><br>30. SWITZERLAND<br><br><br><br><br>Not a great team, but they'll beat you if you're not careful. Fundamentally sound, if lacking great athleticism. Also, they all probably have rich parents.<br><br>SWITZERLAND = CORNELL BIG RED BASKETBALL<br><br>31. URUGUAY<br><br><br><br><br><br>They were the first great team. They've been winning it all since the earliest days. But now they haven't won anything in years, and despite this fact, they (and their fans) carry with them an almost revolting haughtiness, allowing a nostalgia-distorted self-image to fuel utterly unrealistic expectations. Maybe it's because of all the Catholicism.<br><br>URUGUAY = NOTRE DAME<br><br>32. USA<br><br><br><br><br>A place with more tradition in the sport than people remember. Still, a fairly recent addition to the big scene. Haven't yet gotten over the hump to be a real contender, despite considerable resources. Their fans, being new to this, expect too much. But their enthusiasm is somewhat justified- this team has been slowly stockpiling sneaky-good young talent, with a stable, patient organization running the show. It's quite possible that their ascendancy, when and if it comes, will come before anyone but them expects it. All in all this is a solid but flawed team, one that absolutely can beat the big boys... but probably won't.<br><br>USA = THE HOUSTON TEXANS<br><br><br>EPILOGUE<br><br><br>So now that we have that, let's take a look at how this lays out this summer. Perhaps this will give you a better sense of who to expect to do well in each group.<br><br><br>GROUP A<br><br>MARSHALL FOOTBALL<br>TEMPLE B-BALL<br>NOTRE DAME FOOTBALL<br>DUKE B-BALL<br><br><br>GROUP B<br><br>WASHINGTON REDSKINS<br>PHILADELPHIA EAGLES<br>PHOENIX SUNS<br>TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS<br><br><br>GROUP C<br><br>NEW YORK JETS<br>HOUSTON TEXANS<br>NEW JERSEY NETS<br>MINNESOTA WILD<br><br><br>GROUP D<br><br>DALLAS COWBOYS<br>MEMPHIS GRIZZLIES<br>SAN JOSE SHARKS<br>ATLANTA HAWKS<br><br><br>GROUP E<br><br>PORTLAND TRAIL BLAZERS<br>ARIZONA B-BALL<br>GONZAGA<br>BOISE STATE FOOTBALL<br><br><br>GROUP F<br><br>SAN ANTONIO SPURS<br>IOWA FOOTBALL<br>NORTHERN IOWA B-BALL<br>FLORIDA PANTHERS<br><br><br>GROUP G<br><br>LOS ANGELES LAKERS<br>THE CITADEL<br>CLEVELAND CAVALIERS<br>SAN DIEGO CHARGERS<br><br><br>GROUP H<br><br>2005 BOSTON RED SOX<br>CORNELL BASKETBALL<br>MILWAUKEE BREWERS<br>PRE-SUPER BOWL NEW ORLEANS SAINTS<br><br><br>Only two teams advance from each group... but you knew that, right?<br><br><br>I hope this helped. Give the World Cup a chance, y'all. It's good times.<br><br><br>- Brendan Hunt<br>twitter.com/theunlikelyfan<br>© Brendan Hunt, 2010
Brenden Hunt
2010-05-21T16:30:00Z
Greetings from Behind the Glass Part 2
Chris McClintick
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Greetings-from-Behind-the-Glass-Part-2/973421035236568810.html
2010-05-20T16:30:00Z
2010-05-20T16:30:00Z
My name is Chris McClintick, Assistant Producer, and the latest addition to the World Football Daily family.<br><br>Soccer (football) has always been an important part of my life. I began playing the game in my small hometown of Mercersburg, Pennsylvania as part of small youth leagues, thanks to my soccer-savvy father. I continued to play throughout my Elementary, middle, and later high school, but I didn't truly fall in love with the game until High School (where I had plenty of time to study the game from the bench). <br><br>During the summer of 2006 I had the opportunity to travel to Austria and Germany as a part of an exchange program with a school in Worms, Germany. It just so happened the World Cup, or Weltmeisterschaft, was about to take place a week or two after our arrival in the Central-European nation. We watched the opening match, Germany vs. Costa Rica,in Salzburg, Austria among a large crowd in the town center (most of the Austrians were rooting for Costa Rica). That gave me a small taste of the passion so many people around the world share for the game, however, the most influential night, was the match between Germany and Poland. <br><br>After what was a fairly even match in the first minute of stoppage time, Oliver Neuville slid across the goalmouth to finish a cross, handing Germany the late victory over their neighboring rivals. The moment the ball crossed the line, Germany exploded. After the match, and a few drinks at the Biergarten (at the age of sixteen), we walked through the small city only to witness traffic jams, horns sounding throughout the city, German flags as far as the eye could see, and cars overloaded with people, beer in hand. After being a part of that spectacle, I felt the sheer power and importance of Football, and have loved it ever since. <br><br>Upon my return to the states, a close family friend, and now fellow premium subscriber, introduced me to a free podcast called World Soccer Daily. I adopted Everton FC as my club, and like so many other listeners, my knowledge of, and love, for football expanded with every episode, becoming a daily staple to everyday life. It was through the musical taste of Adam, the producer at the time, that I developed a second passion in life, music. I recall hearing the beginning of "Rebellion (lies)" by the Arcade Fire during a show, and thinking to myself, what is this music? I've never heard anything like it, and it's absolutely incredible. I fell into the habit of exploring music played on the show anytime I heard something I remotely enjoyed, until my love for music coupled my affinity for football.<br><br>After completing high school at the Mercersburg Academy, I continued my studies at the University of Richmond in hopes of pursuing a career in the world of football by majoring in International Studies: Modern Europe with a minor in Journalism. I began hosting my own music-focused radio program at the University's Independent Radio station, WDCE. I still host every Friday afternoon during the school year (the show can be streamed live through iTunes at www.wdce.org should you wish to listen to some new indie/alternative music). At school I watch football whenever possible (occasionally in class) regardless of what league or country out of pure enjoyment and in an effort to learn as much as possible about the game we all know and love. <br><br>While attempting to plan my summer in January, I felt the need for a new challenge and something different in my life, so naturally the first people I got in touch with were the boys at WFD. Five months later, I find myself writing this in an apartment outside of UCLA where I'm living with extremely generous and welcoming fraternity brothers. Although I've only been here for a little over two and a half weeks, my time so far with Steven, Kenny, Rafa, James, and Casey have been life-changing. Perhaps the greatest aspect of being a part of the WFD team is coming to the realization that the guys I've listened to for years now, really are the incredible people you think they are as a listener. Already I've learned so much dealing with the show, football journalism, and their place in a globalizing Unites States. As a journalism student, I've looked at the effect the Internet has had on journalism as we know it. The ever-increasing amount of information, news, and forms of communication the Internet provides, serves as the perfect platform for World Football Daily to thrive in, and it surely will.<br><br>I couldn't be more excited about the upcoming World Cup in South Africa. As an Everton fan, I've found some special interest in the role Steven Pienaar who will be playing as a key member of the South African squad. However, this interest includes not only his play-making ability on the pitch, but also the connection he has with his home country and its past. In an interview with The Daily Mail (google Steven Pienaar interview daily mail if you want to read the entire interview, I recommend doing so at some point before the WC), Pienaar talks about growing up in a township with a single mother during Apartheid. This recent dark history and the developments South Africa has made since Apartheid are going to be showcased during this summer's tournament. The global audience being witnesses to this can attest to the power football possesses, and what it will mean to the country and people of South Africa.<br><br>Of course I will be supporting Bob Bradley's men in this summer's tournament and I believe we have great potential to do well (yes, I was part of the 2% of voters in our recent poll who said the US will go all the way). I look forward to what the rest of my short time at WFD has in store for not only myself, but the entire WFD community as we approach this historic tournament. (U! S! A! U! S! A!)
Chris McClintick
2010-05-20T16:30:00Z
Greetings from Behind the Glass
James Cranford
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Greetings-from-Behind-the-Glass/-25254465125837211.html
2010-05-19T05:30:00Z
2010-05-19T05:30:00Z
Hello everyone,<br><br>My name is James Cranford, and I am one of the Assistant Producer's here at World Football Daily. I am sure many of you are familiar with my name and some of you have been in contact with me at some point during my five months thus far at WFD. I am writing this to introduce myself further, so you may have a better understanding of who I am as a person, and a football supporter. <br><br>Firstly, I would like to tell the tale of how I came to work at World Football Daily and my experiences that have subsequently followed during my short tenure. <br><br>As all of you are, I am a premium subscriber to the only daily English language football pod cast. One day in December (I can't remember which), Kenny stated that they are looking for interns to help Rafa with work in the studio; as I recall, his statement said,"We need a body." Ever since I can remember, I have always wanted to work in the sports business in anyway possible (I will be majoring in Broadcast Journalism when I go back to school in August: more on that later) whether that be playing, managing, or working in the press. The easy route has always been the press. So when I heard Kenny's statement, I thought about e-mailing Rafa. I did so the next day and immediately heard back from Rafa that he was interested in having me come in, and I thought to myself, this is a great opportunity for my future (not to mention I was stoked about meeting the gang at WFD). I must say that the last five months of my life have been difficult, fun, and a great experience -- what more could you want from life? <br><br>I remember during my first full week working at WFD, Rafa got me started by calling the guests on the show and getting them ready to talk with Steven and Kenny for their interview. That first week I remember I was suddenly talking to Phil Brown, then manager of Hull City, and thinking to myself, how many kids my age would love to be doing what I am right now? But since then, calling people we see everyday in the football world has become the norm in my life, and all in the blink of an eye. <br><br>Now I am privileged to sit in the press box at MLS games, go to the away teams' practice the day before the match, and even talk to professional footballers in person on occasion. I have had many unforgettable experiences all ready while working at WFD and I plan to keep my post at this show for as long as I can. I have always wanted to have a job where I can get up in the morning and not complain about going to work -- I have that at WFD. <br><br>I am currently taking this semester off of school, which was always the plan even before i started working at WFD, but will be back as a Junior at California State University of Fullerton, as a Broadcast Journalism major. I plan to use what I will learn pursuing this degree and apply that to my work at WFD to make the show better, and your dollar worth the full price of subscription. Doing both will be difficult, but I have planned and prepared myself for two hard-working years that I know will be well worth the struggle.<br><br>Now what about me as a football fan?<br><br>Well, I support the great club of Chelsea FC and attended my first game at Stamford Bridge in January (the 7-2 victory over Sunderland). I started becoming interested in this game when I was thirteen during the 2002 World Cup. Of course the help of the US team reaching the quarterfinal peeked my interest. But for two years after that I could never find the game on television and so I was lost on the game during that span. I rediscovered the game thanks to my brother who got me into it during the European Championships in 2004, and I thought to myself, why not give soccer a try? So I did. I fell in love with the game straight away. I became a Chelsea fan for the simple reason that they were playing in Seattle in the summer of 2004 and I heard the announcer say that they were based in London; I picked them straight away because London was the only city I have ever heard of in England (hey, I was 15 and didn't care much for European geography) and I thought football was like American sports where every city only has one team(I was always going to pick an English team because my family heritage originates from there). So Chelsea it was, and I came to find out quickly that they weren't half bad, which has never been anything more than a bonus.<br><br>This has been one great year.<br><br>As a Chelsea fan, at the start of the year I told myself that winning the Premier League this season has to be the goal, the Champions League seems as though it is cursed for us to win it. What a year it was indeed. Going through all the ups-and-downs during this season with Chelsea has made the double they won all the sweeter. I have had a smile on my face for the last two weeks, and nothing seems to be able to rid myself from that happiness. Although we were once again eliminated in the Champions League, by our former manager and Didier Drogba getting a red card, winning the double gives all of us, as Chelsea fans, the bragging rights that we need. By my calculations we should win the Champions League next year because Carlo wins it every four years, in 2003 and 2007, and next year is 2011, four years after he won his last. Haha I hope I am right but what I do know is, if we get knocked out again, I am sure we will make another headline exit. <br><br>As for the rest of the European season, I was thrilled to see all the races go to the last day in four of the five major leagues in Europe, because sport is all about competitive competition. I found myself seized into the excitement of how close the French League was, until Marseille ran away with it. Inter and Barca won again and good to see Bayern Munich back on top in Germany. For the Champions League final, I am going to be rooting for the Bayern in this one, for the simple reason that I hate when my team gets knocked out of a competition by the eventual winner, because that means we most likely would have won it. C'mon Bayern. Oh, and no hard feelings to Jose.<br><br>Ah, yes, the World Cup.<br><br>I am really looking forward to the World Cup this year. I think that playing the tournament on African soil will create the ultimate neutral affect on the European and South American giants, which will lead us to seeing some remarkable games. I cannot wait! My pick to win has to be Brazil. They are simply the best. But I hope I am wrong and we see a new team win it this year. The USA perhaps? That would make my year. I don't think they have the horses to go all the way but I expect them to get out of the group, because if they don't, that could damage the popularity of the game in this country because I feel it has some momentum towards gaining that popularity (not to mention they are the second best team talent wise in their group).<br><br>That was a little bit about me. I hope you feel you may know me better as a football fan and how I started working at WFD. If you have any questions or comments, you can always reach out to me at james@worldfootballdaily.com, and I will try to answer back to you as fast as I can. Thank you all for reading for this.<br><br>James Cranford, Assistant Producer, World Football Daily.
James Cranford
2010-05-19T05:30:00Z
Weekly Newsletter from Kenny's Couch
Kenny Hassan
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Weekly-Newsletter-from-Kennys-Couch/527671058183588432.html
2010-05-16T07:10:00Z
2010-05-16T07:10:00Z
'Magnificent Messi'.....<br><br>Ok, let's first of all congratulate Chelsea for winning a historic 'double' under, for my money, the manager of the year in England without question, Carlo Ancelotti. Let's tip our hat to Jose for winning leg-2 of the treble by securing the title in Italy, Louis van Gaal for guiding Bayern Munchen to the 2nd of 3 possible piece's of silverware for the German giants, Pep Guardiola for retaining the La Liga crown with Madrid breathing down his neck till the last 45 minute's of the season, Atletico Madrid for winning the Europa League in a mundane finale, and Dundee Utd for replacing Craig Levein, who took the Scotland job, with Peter Houston who took them to Scottish Cup glory at Hampden Park.<br>Is any of this most recent glory by such storied football clubs truly leaving any more of an imprint in your football membrain than what Lionel Messi has again displayed this season? To put into perspective what the human hovercraft has showed us, lets look at the numbers. He has scored as many or more goals in league play -- let me repeat that -- LEAGUE PLAY, with 34 goals, than Espanyol, Livorno, FC Cologne, Nurnberg, VFL Bochum, Hertha Berlin, Kilmarnock FC, Falkirk FC, Boulogne, St Etienne, Sochaux, Grenoble, Stoke City, Wolves, Hull City, and Portsmouth. If we want to spend the time embarrassing many more clubs around Europe with his overall tally of 47 in all competiions, we could.<br><br>I don't want to. I don't even want to look at how many clubs will be diminished into the darkness and destruction smothered in entertainment that this wee fella provides, week in, week out.<br><br>'Magnificent Messi', Abramovich cant afford him, Manchester City and Real Madrid cant afford him, and FC Barcelona cant afford to lose him. Such is the value of the game's greatest example. I, like you, know every single time when I see him get the ball, that a goal will be scored or a goalscoring opportunity will be hatched.<br><br>In Glasgow, we call these type of football players, " absolutely fucking beyond ".<br><br>Last week's guest line-up was very nice indeed, a great pleasure for us to chat with Hans Backe, coach of NYRB, Danny Allsopp, the first Aussie to score in MLS for DC United, our good friend Declan Hill, author of 'The Fix', who examined with us some areas of concern with the upcoming World Cup and possible match fixers trying to weave their way into players pockets. Steven went to the HDC and had a good talk with USMNT candidate Edson Buddle about his hopes and thoughts regarding plane tickets to South Africa, great interview by Steven AND he waited for some time to conclude it. Michael Cox from Zonalmarking.net joined us for the first time to talk formations, tactical evolutions, and really set the marker for us with having a guest that can break down what takes place right in front of our eyes across the world. Richard Whittle, Serie A commentator, gave us his usual terrific brand of previewing the weekend in Italy, Grant Wahl, on the Bradley squad, and of course we rounded out the week with the incredible thoughts on Spanish football from Graham Hunter, who broke the news that he is sure Joan Laporta, President at Camp Nou, will, by this weds, leave a 'legacy' signing in Catalonia, namely, David Villa. Wow!<br><br>This week will see the return of Martin Tyler, Tim Caple, Graham Spiers, Andy Brassell, Neil Ashton, Daniel King, Ray Hudson and many more as we head into the biggest week of the European calendar of football, the Champions League Final from the Santiago Bernabeu this coming Saturday as the current Italian and German Champs face off.<br><br>Inter 2-1.<br><br>Enjoy the game everyone and please, please continue to spread the good word about the best daily football broadcast on the planet. And look out for our new contest set to be launched this week.<br><br><br>Cheers,<br>Kenny.
Kenny Hassan
2010-05-16T07:10:00Z
Weekly Newsletter from Cohen's Desk
Steven Cohen
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Weekly-Newsletter-from-Cohens-Desk/-492131349390136019.html
2010-05-09T07:10:00Z
2010-05-09T07:10:00Z
Another decent week on World Football Daily. It started with the awesome Pat Dolan who as always pulls no punches and just tells it like it is. We ended the week with the superlative Jon Champion and Ian Herbert from the Independent.<br><br>We have been focusing a lot last week on the looming trouble at Liverpool. Really, take a closer look at it because as Lineker said in the English media last week you could seriously be seeing the end of Liverpool football club as we have known it for the last 35 plus years. It is not just the squad, it is not just the debt, it is not just the awful owners, it is not just the need for a new stadium to keep pace with the likes of Manchester United, Chelsea, Arsenal, Spurs and City...it is all those things combined and it is a recipe and cocktail for disaster. It is a £1.2 billion fix if it is to be done the right way.<br><br>I am the first to admit that the club is a British sporting institution and it is pretty amazing to see the demise over pretty much one season. Let us not forget that they were only 4 points from winning the title last season. How the mighty have fallen and the next 90 days will be, as David Bick said on the show on Thursday possibly the most important in the clubs history or at least since pre-Bill Shankly.<br><br>Also the day after they famously lost any chance of getting 4th and a spot in next seasons Champions League we had Manchester City's Micah Richards on to reflect on Manchester City's disappointment.<br><br>I do feel I need to keep banging the drum about subscriptions. We are seeing an upswing, which is great and thanks and welcome to all the new subscribers but we just need to see a bigger upswing. Listen if you are getting this Kick Around newsletter but have not yet decided to subscribe yet take a chance on World Football Daily because at the $4.99 price point we are asking for 25 cents per day for a 90 minute daily show with outstanding guests that is easily the equal of any other football show anywhere in the world. It is 25 cents a day from right here in the US what are you waiting for.<br><br>Seriously, if you are reading this newsletter and are still undecided on whether to subscribe I would still love to hear your concerns and you should feel welcome to e-mail me any and all your concerns at steven@worldfootballdaily.com. I want to hear from you and answer any questions you might have.<br><br>The new website was re-launched last week and we hope you are all enjoying it and look out because we will releasing for free the World Football Daily mobile application this coming week.<br><br>And look out because we are going to have some interesting and exciting partnerships to announce in the coming weeks.<br><br>If you are into buying a bunch of World Cup gear or Bayern, Chelsea, Barcelona or Marseille championship gear please check out the new re-launched World Football Daily Shop at www.worldfootballdailyshop.com and also we are happy to welcome back to our air VIP Communications and you can sign up at www.joinvip.com/worldfootballdaily.<br><br>OK to the football...<br><br>Lets start in Spain where they played all this weekends games on Saturday at the same time which is how they do it for the last two weeks of the league season. To be sure we are really only looking for that battle at the top of the table between Barcelona and Real Madrid but it has been some battle.<br><br>Barcelona however have for now kept their nerve. They had some big games that a lot of people (Kenny) thought they would bottle. Villarreal away last weekend: no worries 4-1, Tenerife at home mid-week: no worries 4-1 but then this weekend they had to travel to Sevilla. OK Sevilla have not been as good as we had hoped this season and we all hoped that maybe they could mount a serious challenge to the big two...it was not to be but coming off of beating Racing Santander 5-1 away in mid week you really saw this as a tricky fixture for Barcelona.<br><br>But 3-0 up on 62 minutes they looked to be coasting until a combination of great passing/alert set pieces and some very sloppy defending put Sevilla right back in it. Barcelona showed their courage and their skill and held on for all 3 points and they had come through what was supposed to be a very tricky week. Three games, 9 points win next week at home to Valladolid and they are champions of La Liga.<br><br>Meanwhile Real Madrid after going in at half time 1-1 with Athletic Bilbao came out in the second half and ended up putting 5 past them to keep it interesting Certainly nobody would doubt that if their rivals from Catalonia slip up next week you know for sure Ronaldo and the rest of Los Blancos will be there to pounce.<br><br>I can't see it and it will be Barcelona as champions. Remember though it was Sevilla who knocked Barcelona out of Copa Del Rey earlier in the season meaning Barcelona could not equal their feats of last season where they had the single greatest season any club has ever had. They are also doing this at the business end of the season without Andres Iniesta.<br><br>Relegation in La Liga is pretty interesting. Xerex are relegated and Real Zaragoza are safe on 40 points but that leaves Valladolid (away vs. Barcelona on the last day), Malaga (at home to Real Madrid on the last day), Racing Santander (at home vs. Sporting Gijon on the last day), and Tenerife (away vs. Valencia on the last day) all on 36 points. My money would be on Racing Santander and Tenerife to get something and survive.<br><br>Valencia has secured Champions League football next year while Sevilla and Real Mallorca will battle down to the wire. Separated by one point they go into the final weekend with Sevilla at home to Atletico Madrid who could be on a high from Europa League success and might not really care while Real Mallorca are at home to Espanyol. I fancy Sevilla's chances.<br>In Germany Bayern Munich wrapped up the Bundesliga title. It is their 22nd title overall making them the most successful footballing club in German football history.<br><br>To be fair it was pretty much done last weekend when they won and Schalke 04 lost and with a 17-goal lead in goal difference this was just a formality. However they did so by confirming Hertha Berlin's relegation, and my what a woeful seasons it has been for the chaps from Berlin. Five wins, 20 loses and a goal difference of -22.<br><br>To wrap Germany: Bayern are champions, Schalke 04 qualify automatically for the group stage of the Champions League while Werder Bremen will have to qualify in the third round. At the other end: Nurnberg, Bochum and Hertha Berlin are relegated<br><br>It is not all over in Germany though. Bayern will take on Werder Bremen next Saturday in the German Cup Final looking to do the domestic double and the following week will try and complete The Treble when they take on Inter Milan in Madrid on May 22nd.<br><br>And that is not it...Hamburg will host the Europa League Final this Thursday between Fulham and Atletico Madrid.<br>In Italy Inter Milan took the first step towards The Treble by beating Roma in the Coppa Italia Final in Rome on Wednesday. It was an ill-tempered affair with Roma playing straight into Inter's hands and tried to get down and dirty against an Inter team that was just waiting for them. Inter completed a Rome sweep in 4 days having beaten Lazio last weekend and Roma on Wednesday.<br><br>Francesco Totti was an utter disgrace when he so deliberately hacked at Mario Balotelli not even trying to disguise an act of severe brutality. To Balotelli's credit he did not retaliate and Totti got his marching orders. It would be good to see the Italian FA suspend and fine Totti severely. The fact the Totti suggested afterwards why he did it makes it even worse and shows that he did it with forethought.<br><br>From Inter's point of view they did what they needed to do but I think that some of Jose Mourinho's comments this weekend about Claudio Ranieri being a loser are not only disgusting but they are so unnecessary.<br><br>I would really hope that Mourinho would see that in Italy he is about to do all he could do...if he wins The Treble he will be seen as a manager who has won the Champions League with two different teams in two different countries. He will win a second Scudetto and will have done it in an imperious fashion. He is about to be talked about as one of the greatest managers of all time, a real leader of men. I really hope that Jose will look at this and recognize that this is not the time to give "them" anything negative to say, just take your bows Jose. You are the greatest in the game and all this other nonsense only dims your star and really won't making Roman Abromavich cry as you pick up the Champions League trophy be enough.<br><br>Like Spain, Serie A plays all is games the last two weeks of the season at the same time. Some drama, not much especially for Inter who went behind early courtesy of a Thiago Motta own goal but then scored four straight with the goals coming from a Mantovani own goal, Cambiasso, Diego Milito and finally from Mario Balotelli. But Chievo did not lie down and two goals from Granoche and Pellisier made it at least interesting although Mourinho's men ran out winner 4-3 winners. Not a score line that Jose would have enjoyed or admired.<br><br>Roma beat Cagliari 2-1 with two goals from Totti in a game that he should not even have been playing due to his antics in the Coppa Italia Final on Wednesday and they remain second. Final day fixtures have Inter travelling to already relegated Siena and a win and the title is theirs. Roma travel to Chievo Verona.<br><br>The battle for the fourth Champions league spot between Palermo and Sampdoria ended in a 1-1 draw. Two penalties settled the affair in a stalemate. Sampdoria's from Pazzini on 54 minutes and Palermo's Miccoli on 68 minutes.<br><br>However that last day sees Palermo travelling to already relegated Atalanta while Sampdoria host Napoli who are already assured of Europa League football next season and a win would secure 4th for Cassano and Pazzini and company.<br><br>Relegated from Serie A are Livorno, Siena and Atalanta while Juventus will not participate in European football at all next season.<br><br>In France Olympique Marseille have won their first French title since 1992, they won it again in 1993 but it was taken from them due to a match-fixing scandal. Congrats to French world Cup winning captain Didier Decamps.<br><br>In Holland, I am sure Kenny dealt with it last week but a huge round of applause to Steve McLaren. He took FC Twente to second last year and did one better this season by winning them the Dutch title. The scenes on TV of the celebration were awe-inspiring. When he asked Sir Booby Robson for one word of advice about going to coach in a foreign country all Sir Bobby said was don't take your own coaches. Think about that...that is saying you have to open yourself up to the country you are going to and their footballing culture rather than expecting them to welcome yours.<br><br>He did this by beating out Martin Jol's Ajax who had scored 106 goals, had a goal difference of +86 and won their last 14 games in a row. Not so much the wolly with the brolly anymore.<br><br>In England and the final day of the Premiership: Wow what a way to end it and pick up the Premier League trophy. Chelsea 8 vs. Wigan 0. A hat trick from Drogba after a bit of a spat with Lampard early on over the penalty. A brace from Anelka and goals from Ashley Cole, Kalou a penalty from Lampard completed the route.<br><br>We have often talked about this being the Premier League championship that nobody wanted to win but look inside the numbers for Chelsea. Most goals scored ever (103), most clean sheets, tied for most wins, fewest loses. Chelsea scored 3 vs. Arsenal, Everton, Sunderland, Burnley, Birmingham and Spurs. They scored 4 vs. Bolton, Wolves, West Ham. They scored 5 vs. Blackburn and Portsmouth, 7 vs. Villa, Sunderland and Stoke and topped it all off with 8 vs. Wigan. They were perfect vs. the big four and remember that they did this since December without Michael Essen and did all that with an Italian manager...who says the Italians are defense minded. They will be partying in West London tonight and rightfully so.<br><br>You always have to look at next season and to be sure the assault on the Champions League will be priority number 1. That said you might have seen the last of Joe Cole, Ricardo Carvalho and Michael Ballack as Chelsea players. Mean while full credit to Carlo Ancelotti who wins the league in his first year in England fighting off the mighty Manchester United. He could indeed end it next Saturday at Wembley with The Double if Chelsea can beat Portsmouth and former Chelsea manager Avram Grant.<br><br>Some interesting info about The Double: The Double is always the League championship and the FA Cup (never the Carling Cup) and it has been done 1o times by 6 teams. Preston North End 1889, Aston Villa 1897, Tottenham 1961, Liverpool 1986, Manchester United 1994, 1996 and 1999 as part of The Treble season and Arsenal in 1971, 1998 and 2002. Chelsea can make it 11 times by 7 teams with victory over Portsmouth next weekend.<br><br>How stupid is the rule in the Premier League that you have to have played 10 times to pick up a winners medal. If you are part of the squad and back room fitness and training staff you should get a medal...simple as.<br><br>I thought Fox's coverage of the trophy presentation was dreadful. In previous years as I recall they have allowed the audio to be from the stadium where the champions are being crowned. Sadly this year we had to listen as Miles, Barton and Costigan prattle on about stuff they have said for weeks and weeks and weeks. It brought nothing to the proceedings. You watch the Premier League for 10 months and then once it is all over they do that to it. We want the passion from the stadium not from a generic studio in Los Angeles. Pathetic. They continue to damage and harm their own product. The fans of the newly crowned champions deserve not only a bird's eye view but also a words eye view of the trophy presentation from within the stadium.<br><br>Elsewhere in England it was a huge week for Harry Redknapp and Tottenham. They went to Manchester City on Wednesday and played them off of the park and laid claim to the 4th spot in the Premier League and Champions League football next season.<br><br>Peter Crouch was superb and Spurs had a total of 7 English players take part in this game.<br><br>Ten games out we were talking about how Tottenham could not get through a schedule that included Arsenal, Chelsea, United and City but they were not buying it. They took 9 of 12 points in those all important games and will rightly be hearing the Champions League anthem in their ears next season but not from their televisions at home. It meant losing to Burnley 4-2 on the final day meant nothing and with Arsenal's win vs. Fulham it is a Chelsea, United, Arsenal and Tottenham top four and in that order.<br><br>This is bad news for Liverpool, Villa and Everton. Spurs are an attractive club to lure some great players. In North London, with a new stadium and training complex to come they will be tough to dislodge. Of course City will use that financial muscle and so we really could be seeing a serious changing of the guard in English football. And London reigns supreme with 3 of the top four hailing from the capital.<br><br>Of course Fulham will also compete for the Europa League title this week but loses against Stoke and Arsenal do not have them travelling to Hamburg with much momentum. Thursday should and could be special...come on Fulham!<br><br>And finally to Major League Soccer, which we promise we will start to give much more attention as soon as the European seasons are over.<br><br>We had a great time out at the HDC on Friday with the Dynamo. Got to finally meet Dominic Kinnear, what a nice man and also Jon Spencer the former Chelsea and Rangers player. We also grabbed Pat Onstad, Brian Ching and Craig Weibel and that should be up on our site for Premium members only by Monday.<br><br>In the league the Galaxy continued to cruise with a 4-0 thumping of Seattle who I think might be experiencing a second season syndrome situation. Four goals from the Galaxy and none from Edson Buddle who we are hoping to get a sit down interview with this week. LA got goals from Kirovski, Omar Gonzalez, Todd Dunivant and Landon Donovan who amazingly got his first goal in 8 games.<br><br>San Jose thrashed the Red Bulls in NY's first real set back of the season. Good to see Frankie Yallop getting it going up at San Jose as they have looked dead in the water at times. Toronto thrashed Chicago 4-1 at BMO while the Champions took care of the Union.<br><br>Dallas condemned DC United to another loss and was it not for the 2-1 win over KC in midweek we would be looking at panic stations at RFK. Houston beat Chivas 2-0 in LA and the Crew took care of New England despite Robbie Rogers being sent off.<br><br>Off the pitch MLS will welcome the Montreal Impact to the league in 2012. That will make it 19 teams and lets hope they cap it at 20. There is no need and not enough good enough talent at the professional level to warrant anymore than 20 teams. Lets hope that MLS is not as greedy as we think and they do what is best for the league and cap it at 20.<br><br>That is it for me...another very long newsletter but with all the seasons coming to an end I thought I would express myself.<br><br>We will keep it going on the show so do not miss a second, Hans Bake and many others coming up this week.<br><br>33 days until the festivities in South Africa begin.<br><br>Until then...<br><br>Steven
Steven Cohen
2010-05-09T07:10:00Z
Weekly Newsletter from Kenny's Couch
Kenny Hassan
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Weekly-Newsletter-from-Kennys-Couch/335829089767466063.html
2010-05-03T07:10:00Z
2010-05-03T07:10:00Z
"Cometh the hour, cometh the man".<br><br>Well, if only it was applicable to one man I could wax poetically about him and be on my way.<br>However, this week produced many of 'those' men. Olic, Mourinho, Hodgson, Forlan, McClaren, Houghton, Nani, Lampard, Ronaldo, Totti, Deschamps.....the list is endless, and with crucial input from the aforementioned group, we are in for one helluva couple of weeks prior to the World Cup starting in June.<br>What more could we ask for?<br><br>Inter will meet Bayern in Madrid later this month to determine this years winner of Europe's Premier club competition. The Germans have historically done well anytime they march into France and this week from a football perspective, was no exception. Olic, Olic and Olic ended the hopes of the French giants.<br>Inter Milan, who made life a little bit easier for themselves by building a 3-1 lead at home in the first leg, went to the Nou Camp and put the 'D' in defense. I for one was impressed to watch such an organized, effective and disciplined effort from 10 men against the best club side in the world over the last 2 years. Yes, defending is easier than attacking, but to have been this mentally strong for so long shows great concentration and will. Finally, those who have inexcusably tagged Barca as the greatest football team ever have been proven to be possibly 2-3 years early with such an inaccurate statement. The greatest teams and athletes in any sport are renowned for having the word 'domination' attached to their story, and as of yet, this great team have yet to dominate. Come back next year, win the ECL, defend it the following year....then we can talk. Nice to have Graham Hunter come straight on the show the day after and concur.<br><br>Fulham have, after an incredible journey that started in July last year, now made it to the Europa League final where they will play Atletico Madrid who silenced the Kop midweek thanks to Diego Forlan. Back to the Nordbank Arena for the Cottagers and one would think that having beaten many good teams to get to the final hurdle, why not one more time?. Good luck to Roy Hodgson who has accelerated his resume to the top of many chairman's summer priorities.<br><br>Congratulations to Steve McClaren and Twente Enschede who held off Ajax right to the last day in the Netherlands. What a fantastic job by the easiest target for the British press over the years. A fine club manager who will now get the chance to represent the Eredivisie.<br><br>England and it's debt ridden Premier League goes to the last day in what can only be described as a rollercoaster of a season. Any dropped points to Wigan by Chelsea and a win for Utd against Stoke is the only way the reigning champions can pass Liverpool as England's most decorated club in title's. The race for fourth is actually where the real drama is for myself, the opportunity to have a club break the Big 4 and enter the European platform at the highest level is what we have all been waiting for. 'Come on you Spurs'. The Eastlands on wednesday will be absolutely electric in what might turn out to be 'THE' game of the season. 3-3 would be fine by me. Bye-bye to Burnley, Hull and 'poor' old Pompey.<br><br>Ronaldo, love him or hate him, scored an absolutely vital goal late on in Real's quest to take the La Liga title away from arch-rivals Barcelona. Madrid will have to better Messi and Co by 2 points when it's all said and done, due to the Catalan's better head to head. Valencia, Mallorca and Sevilla all still have the ECL firmly in their sights and with Barcelona's second last game away to Sevilla, the Primera Division has plenty of drama yet to unfold.<br><br>Italy looks like it may well have a treble winner this year. Inter have the Coppa Italia, Champions League Final and Scudetto all within their grasp. I would not be the least bit surprised if their trophy room add's 3 piece's of silverware in the next month. They look like they are on a mission and with Jose as the conductor, who would bet against them? Week 37 will be a cracker with Palermo hosting Sampdoria in the decider for the fourth spot. My money is on Palombo and Cassano to pull through.<br><br>Bayern Munich are all but crowned in Germany and Didier Deschamp's Marseille boy's look set to pick up a long awaited Ligue 1 title in France.<br><br>Look out for the redesigned WFD website this week which having had an early peek at it, looks magnificent. The mobile app is on it's way at last and as always the production team in the studio, Rafa, Casey and James, with the help of NOX Solutions continue to bring you the best daily show about football, anywhere.<br><br>Anyone who is interested in giving a rundown of their country's chances at the World Cup is welcome to contact me at Kenny@worldfootballdaily.com As we have done in the past, it would be a 5-10 minute preview by you, team formation, group analysis, expectations, etc. Get on it quickly as we always get great response on these requests.<br><br>The WFD t-shirt's have been arriving in everyone's mailboxes and the feedback is excellent! We have just placed another order so get on the website and pick your colour now!<br><br>Please continue to spread the word about the show and it's great daily content, down the pub, chatting with friends at work or e-mailing any footy friends anywhere on the planet, let them know that for next to nothing, and I mean next to nothing, we are around and always bringing the best line up available.<br><br><br><br>Cheers,<br>Kenny.
Kenny Hassan
2010-05-03T07:10:00Z
Weekly Newsletter from Cohen's Desk
Steven Cohen
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Weekly-Newsletter-from-Cohens-Desk/198616051821724213.html
2010-04-27T01:00:00Z
2010-04-27T01:00:00Z
Hope you enjoyed last week on World Football Daily. We concluded the week with a great interview from Newcastle United manager Chris Hughton who joined us to talk about the season just gone, now that they are champions of The Championship. They will rightfully take their place in the Premier League starting next season. It was a good week of guests which we started out with Pat Dolan along with Tim Vickery. Phil Ball made his first visit for a while and Oli Kay who was outside the Vincente Calderon stadium in Madrid, just prior to the Europa League game between Atletico Madrid and Liverpool. We also caught up with Kris Voakes on Tuesday outside the San Siro before Inter v Barcelona and the very next day we grabbed Ben Gladwell outside the Allianz Arena in Munich prior to Bayern v Lyon...if you can tell me where else you can get that kind of coverage I am all ears, as Ross Perot once said.<br><br>I do feel I need to keep banging the drum about subscriptions. We are seeing an upswing, which is great and thanks and welcome to all the new subscribers but we just need to see a bigger upswing. Listen if you are getting this Kick Around newsletter but have not yet decided to subscribe, take a chance on World Football Daily because at the $4.99 price point we are asking, for 25 cents per day for a 90 minute daily show with outstanding guests that is easily the equal of any other football show anywhere in the world. It is 25 cents a day from right here in the US! What are you waiting for?<br><br>Seriously, if you are reading this newsletter and are still undecided on whether to subscribe, I would love to hear your concerns and you should feel welcome to e-mail me any and all your concerns at steven@worldfootballdaily.com. I want to hear from you and answer any questions you might have.<br><br>We will be launching our new website starting early in May and with it will come a terrific mobile app that will not be limited to just the iPhone but will be available to all manner of mobile devices, so please stay tuned for that.<br><br>OK to the football...<br><br>So if you are reasonably new to the game then you must be thinking that this is how it is every season. Sadly no but even more reason to enjoy what you are witnessing. Going into the weekend the leads in the Premier League, Serie A and La Liga all separated by a single point. Germany and Holland just 2 points and so as we head into the final 2-3-4 weeks of the European seasons, we are looking at quite an ending and if for no other reason than this weekend in the Premier League, City fans will be cheering for United and Spurs fans will be cheering (albeit quietly) for Arsenal to keep Manchester City off Tottenham's back.<br><br>Football always throws up surprises, which is why they always say, "that is why they play the games."<br>The Europa League was dull this week. Liverpool failed to show up again for any game anywhere that is not called Anfield. The real shame is that they will probably overturn the 1-0 loss to Atletico Madrid next Thursday and get themselves into the Europa League Final in Hamburg next month. Got to see former Manchester United striker Diego Forlan get the goal.<br><br>Fulham played a good tactical game in Hamburg without ever looking likely to score but they were strong in defense had a couple of decent breaks which could have gone somewhere but sadly did not. They will still have it all to do at Craven Cottage next Thursday and if they can keep a clean sheet then they will find themselves in utter dreamland in Hamburg next month.<br><br>In the Champions League a decent game in Munich saw Frank Ribery sent off at the half hour mark for a tackle that was atrocious and a clear red card. But the club from Bavaria never really looked that troubled even before Lyon were also reduced to 10 men when Jeremy Toulalan picked up 2 yellow cards in 3 minutes. Arjen Robben was the star and he looked menacing every single time he picked up the ball and his goal was top draw not unlike the goals he has scored vs. Fiorentina and Manchester United in the previous two rounds. But the game that the world would be focused on was in Milan on Tuesday night. Poor defending by Maicon and Cambiaso gifted Pedro and Barcelona an opening goal but that was the end of highlight reel for Barcelona. The kind of preparation that Jose Mourinho puts his teams through is epic and impressive and the way Cambiaso and Zanetti locked up and collapsed on Messi every time he got the ball really was a game changer. Xavi did not have the options he is used to. I thought that Pique and Puyol were playing a really dangerous and risky game tactically playing such a high line against forwards with the speed of Pandev, Eto'o and Milito. Inter Milan answered with three from Wesley Sneijder, Maicon and Diego Milito (although clearly offside, he really did deserve a goal) and Barcelona have it all to do next week at the Nou Camp. But they will not have their captain Carlos Puyol who will miss next week's game through suspension, which means that Gabi Milito might get the start for Barcelona. That would mean for the first time that brothers have faced of in a European Cup/Champions League semi-final and more to the point they would be marking each other.<br>Then of course there is the drama that seems to follow Mario Balotelli around. Giving the Inter fans the finger, throwing his shirt to the ground and getting into it with teammates...physically and verbally. He is not long for Inter and has already submitted a transfer request.<br><br>I cannot wait for this coming Wednesday. To see Barcelona have to chase a game will be something to watch. I cannot see Inter ruining a 2 goal lead and so my predictions for the two European Finals is:<br>Inter over Bayern and Liverpool over Hamburg.<br><br>In The Premier League it was the same old result if not the same old performance for Spurs up at Old Trafford. In the lunchtime kick off Spurs fell to two nailed on penalty=is by Ryan Giggs and a sublime goal from Nani which moved United back to the top of the table if only temporarily and this time United got it done without Wayne Rooney who was out with a groin injury.<br><br>In watching the United v Tottenham game I found myself for the first time ever really cheering for a team to do Chelsea harm. Early on Saturday morning I had received an e-mail from a friend here in the US (he has been on the show before) who has been contributing some writing to the official Chelsea website. In his latest offering he had referenced me and our show and was talking about the topic that I have mentioned many times before that I think the US is the best country in the world go out and watch football in sports bars and pubs etc... My dear friend submitted it to the club only for it to come back completely edited with every mention of myself, and the show taken out. They even said that there was no way that they wanted to be giving me, or the show any publicity. I don't care if they score 7 or 70 they are as an organization total and utter scum.<br><br>I was really upset for about half an hour and then I realized that it simply validates the decision I made a few weeks ago. I will be scouring the house this weekend to get every single everything with any mention of Chelsea out of here and the license plates will be gone by Tuesday.<br><br>Around the rest of the league: with West Ham coming back to win and Hull losing 1-0 to Sunderland it is sad to say but Hull are officially relegated being 6 points behind West Ham with 2 games to go and a goal difference of 23 worse than the Hammers. Ok it is not official but it is as good as done.<br><br>Burnley however are officially relegated to the Championship. They lost 4-0 at home to Liverpool and that was all it took. They tried to do it the right way by not spending themselves to safety and they will enjoy some pretty decent parachute payments to try and mount a promotion challenge next season. We will miss them as their press people have been amazing at providing us with everyone we have ever asked for.<br><br>Aston Villa won the midlands derby vs. Birmingham with a James Milner penalty and are now tied with Tottenham and ahead of City with two games two go which for just happen to be away to City and home to Blackburn. So the race for 4th is really alive and That said lets not forget that on May 5th Manchester City host Spurs at Eastland's in what should be a serious decider for the 4th Champions League spot. Villa though are making it quite a battle.<br>Stoke joined Sunderland and Aston Villa as teams who have had 7 put past them by Chelsea. What was strange was the lack of fight from Stoke...very unusual for a Tony Polis managed side.<br><br>So safe to say that the title comes down to Chelsea's visit next week to Anfield! Didn't you just know that is how it would work. They have to win otherwise it opens the door for United. A draw would only give them a point obviously and with United going to Sunderland much will be revealed next weekend. In case you are wondering Chelsea play Liverpool in the early game next Sunday and United play Sunderland in the late game on Sunday so United will know what they have to do.<br><br>Dodgy penalty gives Everton all three points against Fulham who clearly have other things on their mind. And what might I ask was Jozy Altidore thinking? I can only imagine what Bob Bradley must be thinking. That was stupid stupid stupid.<br><br>In Europe and starting in Germany: Bayern who lets face it would appear to have bigger fish to fry in the form of Lyon and the Champions League took their eye off of the Bundesliga prize and slipped up with a 1-1 draw against Borussia Monchengladbach while Schalke 04 beat bottom of the table Hertha Berlin 1-0 away. The title will come down to will come down to Bayern or Schalke 04who with two game to play looks like this for Bayern: home to VFL Bochum and away to Hertha Berlin which Schalke 04 home to Werder Bremen and a way to Mainz so you would probably say advantage Bayern. And also lets not forget that Bayern are going for the treble. <br>In Germany with 2 games to go it is tied at the top between Bayern Munich and Schalke 04.<br><br>Talking of trebles Inter Milan got their domestic form back on course with a 3-1 dismantling of Atalanta as they get ready to FLY to Barcelona for their Champions League 2nd leg vs. Barcelona. Having already booked their passage into the Coppa Italia 10 days ago they are very much in for the treble.<br><br>What is amazing about all this is that just like when he left Porto after winning the Champions League he is more than likely to leave Inter and does anyone have any doubt that after Inter pick up the CL trophy at the Santiago Bernebeu Jose will head upstairs and sign his deal. I am not convinced, that unless the United job was available, he is coming back to England any time too soon.<br><br>Some of the football AS Roma is playing at the moment is quite breathtaking. But at home they looked amazing in the first half taking a 1-0 lead thanks to Mr. Roma himself Francisco Totti but a brace by Pazzini undoes them in a game that I am not sure that they could afford to lose, but lose they did and how lucky is Jose Mourinho...the treble is on and he must be laughing his ass off.<br><br>In Italy with 4 games to go it is a two point lead at the top between Inter Milan and AS Roma.<br><br>In Spain both Barcelona and Real Madrid won. Real Madrid with the tougher fixture won 2-1 away to Real Zaragoza while Barcelona made reasonably easy work of bottom of the league Xerox winning 3-1 at the Nou Camp.<br>Four games to go in La Liga, Barcelona lead by a point and their run in looks like this: away v Villarreal, hone to Tenerife, AWAY TO SEVILLA, home to Valladolid.<br>Real Madrid with four games to go and behind by one point: home to Osasuna, AWAY TO REAL MALLORCA, home to Athletic Bilbao and away to Malaga.<br><br>It would seem pretty close in terms of toughness of schedule and obviously there are two game that stand out: Barcelona away to Seville and Real Madrid away to Real Mallorca who have only lost twice at home all season. Stay tuned in Spain with 4 games to go, it is a one point lead at the top between Barcelona and Real Madrid.<br><br>In Major League Soccer Edson Buddle is still the only scorer for LA Galaxy as Kansas City are the first team to cause LA to drop points with a 0-0 in Kansas.<br><br>The Red Bulls march on with a nice 2-1 win over the Union and last years MLS Cup winners went down again this time to Columbus. Colorado had a good win at New England and we will get the chance to ask Gary Smith all about this week on the show.<br><br>And good for Chivas who got their second win this time at home to San Jose where you have to believe that things are not going as well as Frankie Yallop would like.<br><br>Dare I say it but it looks like Seattle are having some second season jitters.<br><br>And finally congrats to Rangers for winning the title in Scotland...their 53rd I believe Kenny was saying on Friday and to nobodies surprise but congrats to Wayne Rooney and James Milner who picked up the PFA Player of the Year and PFA Young player of the Year awards respectively last night in London.<br><br>OK so enjoy this coming week on World Football Daily. Loads to talk about especially these great European battles on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday.<br><br>Until then...<br><br>Steven
Steven Cohen
2010-04-27T01:00:00Z
WFD coming with constant quality!
James Cranford
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/WFD-coming-with-constant-quality!/-129607102306592109.html
2010-04-25T16:00:00Z
2010-04-25T16:00:00Z
Another terrific week on World Football Daily where we got you prepped and prepared for a big week of European action. We had the first legs of the semi-finals in both the Champions League and the Europa League this week. We brought you extensive coverage from our top-quality guests who were willing to join us from outside the various stadiums before kick-off.<br><br>On Tuesday, we were joined by Italian correspondent, Kris Voakes, who joined us from outside the Giuseppe Meazza to preview the match between Internazionale and FC Barcelona. Inter were able to win the match at home, 3-1, and move ever closer to the final in Madrid in one month?s time. On Wednesday, we were joined by Ben Gladwell, our German correspondent, who previewed the Champions League clash between Bayern Munich and Olympique Lyonnais. Bayern were able to win the match 1-0, thanks to an Arjen Robben strike, even though Franck Ribery was sent-off in the first half (of course, Toulalan was sent-off for Lyon in the second half after committing two bookable offenses). We didn?t stop with the Champions League either, as we brought you outside stadium coverage from the Vicente Calderon Stadium, where Oliver Kay from the Times was able to join us to preview the Europa League match between Atletico Madrid and Liverpool. Atletico won the match 1-0 and will take the aggregate score line advantage back to Anfield next week. Russ Goldman, although this time not from outside a stadium, the Fulham blogger, joined us to talk about his club and their chance at upsetting German side, Hamburg. Tremendous insight from the Fulham man as he may be delighted coming away with a 0-0 draw in Germany.<br><br>We were, however, unable to get coverage of the San Jose Earthquakes this time around (no worries though, we plan to get Earthquake coverage later in the season when they take on the LA Galaxy) but always stay tuned to WFD?s coverage of the MLS this season.<br><br>Keep it right here on World Football Daily as we are the only daily football pod cast broadcasted in English. World Football Daily is your one-stop shop to all things football.
James Cranford
2010-04-25T16:00:00Z
My Weekend Dressing Down for all of Yous!
Kenny Hassan
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/My-Weekend-Dressing-Down-for-all-of-Yous!/63149610367770477.html
2010-04-19T03:00:00Z
2010-04-19T03:00:00Z
Just when you thought a loudspeaker could not get any cheesier at a football match, seconds after Arjen Robben chipped Hanover6 keeper Florian Fromlowitz for his 12th league goal of the season in this year's highest scoring Bundesliga game, 69,000 in attendance at the Allianz Arena were seen knocking their knees together to the awful tune 'Tulips from Amsterdam'.<br><br>I hate to quote Sir Alex, but I will, "Typical Germans" indeed. Robben went on to beat Olic and the brilliant young Muller to be the first man to a hat-trick in this Bavarian demolition job.<br><br>Well here we go heading to another round of fixtures not yet knowing who will be champions of England, Italy, Spain and the Netherlands whose respective league leaders are separated by one solitary point. One! It is truly remarkable that at the very end of the 'business end' of the season we have so many title's as yet undecided, the afore-mentioned Munchen are only 2 points ahead of Magath and his Schalke group, Marseille are 5 ahead of Auxerre and look out Bursaspor because Fenerbache are a mere 4 behind with a game in hand in the always competitive Turkcell Super Lig.<br><br>Chelsea slipped this weekend and it was no surprise to many as Tottenham Hotspur have, as I said on many occasions, kept playing a very attack minded and enjoyable brand of football. Fair play to Redknapp, he's not everyone's cup of tea but he has meshed those lads together, made them fight for their spot and instilled belief in all of his squad. No better example than Gareth Bale who had that horrid stat where when he played, they couldn't buy a win. Fantastic performance from the new Welsh-Wizard and if only Cappello could pick him many problems would be solved for the England manager while he awaits Ashley Cole's recovery. Dawson has been magnificent, Modric looks back to his crafty and creative best and low and behold, having not seen that much action under 'Arry, David Bentley still shows a subtle touch when he gets the chance. Spurs and Man City are surely the contenders now for ECL fixtures next season and that could be decided when they face off on May 5th at Eastlands, look out for some fireworks in that one, a game that almost certainly will see Howard Webb take charge of, I would think. Arsenal tossed it away at Wigan who have been somewhat of the giant killer's this year, pity their form lacked focus in many other spells this year. Utd pulled off a typical late drama 3 pointer in a mundane match with their local and cash rich neighbors. Scholes played particularly well and it was his experience that showed up right when the Red Devils needed it most. Not sure about the kissing on the lips from Captain Neville though.<br><br>Italy saw Mr Mourinho these past few days keep his incredible home league record in tact that has been going for what seems like an eternity. Juventus just don't have any cohesion as a unit and on top of some injuries which were not that damaging still fielded a strong team. Maicon showed superb skill at the arc and buried a difficult shot from his viewpoint and then at the death Eto'o finished it in stoppage time. Roma went back on top after a pulsating derby which saw the Serie A frontrunners go behind to a Rocchi goal and then Ranieri made a bold move to replace De Rossi and Totti. Floccari missed a woeful penalty attempt and then Vucinic took the game and maybe the biggest 3 points of the year, on his own shoulders. 2 super goals including a truly memorable rocket free kick, sealed it. Sampdoria took it to Milan in stretches but against 10 men should have done better than wait for Pazzini's unreal header as the clock was ticking away in added time. Cassano won a penalty and also converted after Borriello had given the visitors a glimmer of hope that the title was still possible. Not now. <br><br>Barcelona were given a great contest with their old foe's Espanyol. Alves went for an early bath and Messi as hard as he tried just couldn'tt conquer a determineddefensee, Pareja and Didac did well in front of the home crowd. Real sit a point behind the Champions and if only CR9 would pass now and then maybe we see finishing. He did try and get Benzema in on the act but the game was already won by that stage and the Frenchman continues to be a shadow of the player we know. Old Trafford looms in the summer. Fine set up by Marcelo for Ronaldo to score and the opener was a thing of beauty with Gonzalo showing tremendous technique. Valencia still have some work left to do to stake their claim as Spain's 3 rd best team. A massive 24 pts separate them and Madrid in 2nd.<br><br>Hey guys, look out and take a moment if you can on May 2nd to see if Steve McLaren can win the Dutch Eredivisie, what an achievement that would be given the talent Martin Jol has in his Ajax squad that are finally coming back to the forefront of football in the Netherlands, 03-04 was their last title and with Twente leading by 1 pt it will be a day to remember in 2 weeks.<br><br>Rangers have to wait another week in Scotland, the 11pt cushion is very nice mind you.<br><br>Champions League semi's this week and 2 cracking games in store for us. I'll leave my thought's to the show if it's all the same...(Inter !).Both teams traveling by road because of the Volcanic ash from Iceland which has crippled air travel, so it's 'on the buses' for Barcelona to Milan and Lyon to Munich. <br><br>Many great guests lined up again this week, Pat Dolan, Graham Spiers, Andy Brassell, Tim Vickery and a few surprises along the way.<br><br>Check out the RSL segment the boys did at the Home Depot Center last week and don't forget to buy the WFD shirts before they run out, selling like hot cakes. Thanks everyone!<br><br><br>Cheers,<br>Kenny.
Kenny Hassan
2010-04-19T03:00:00Z
Welcome Supporters!
Rafa
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Welcome-Supporters!/570448381007878913.html
2010-04-12T16:00:00Z
2010-04-12T16:00:00Z
Welcome Supporters,<br><br>How's it going everyone? Rafa here. Did you buy your WFD tee shirt yet? If not, then just head on down to worldfootballdaily.com and get yours, stat! Incase you are unaware; I am the Producer of World Football Daily. I will be writing the Kick-About this week. After a good deal of begging and pleading, Kenny and Steven who love to get carried away with it, let me write one for a change. I'll try to keep it short and sweet, but as always, so much to talk about.<br><br>First and foremost, I want to thank all those supporters out there who have joined the club. Really, that is what World Football Daily has turned itself into. A bunch of the boys have got together to sit and talk about footy everyday of the week. Hell! Sometimes we meet up on the weekends to throw back a couple pints and take in a good days worth of football in the pub. Look out for the new Pub Sponsor page that will be coming with the redesign of the World Football Daily Network. Currently we have the "wfd.com" and the "wfdpremium.com" websites. We will be combining the two so that all traffic and content will be on the "worldfootballdaily.com" website, meaning premium members will be signed into their accounts at this website now. <br><br>Like any other club, we have our perks. Not only are your buying a season ticket to our live show and commercial free pod cast, but you are also getting exclusive content that you really can't find anywhere else. Every week we bring you top quality guests with even better quality football discussion. Whether you are a newbie to the game, or a lifetime supporter, you can always enjoy the conversation.<br><br>Think about it. Sure you may have heard Harry Redknapp on TV before, but did you ever hear a 20minute interview with the Tottenham Hotspur Manager where Harry opened up like he did with Steven and Kenny? I am sorry, but no. Where else can you find USMNT and Rangers FC midfielder Maurice Edu sit down for a 25 minutes interview? We even have the "best American outfield player" Landon Donovan on the show regularly now. The quality of the content that WFD brings on a consistent basis is unbelievable compared to the price we ask for membership <br><br>To quickly recap last week, let's remember it was the second leg of the Champions League Quarter Finals. The top clubs in Europe, and our supporters get a complete experience to compliment the tournament. We started the week with Phil Schoen (Spanish perspective), Ian Herbert (English perspective), and Kris Voakes (Italian perspective) on Monday, all set to preview the massive mid week fixtures. Nick Szczepanik and the Arseblogger joined the boys on Tuesday to give our audience the build up to one of most talk about fixtures of the year between Arsenal and Barcelona. To use the words of Cohen, "it was an honor for Arsenal to be put to the sword by a team like Barcelona." <br><br>Wednesday was a great show for the audience. A fantastic game brings fantastic callers who make it so much fun to interact with on air. But our audience was also lucky to get a 45minute chat with Graham Hunter of Sky Sports. Graham always speaks reverently about the Spanish game, and he breaks down Messi's performance as only a true poet could. Later, we even got Jimmy Conrad of the Kansas City Wizards to give us his opinion on the Argentine wonder. Thursday was just as good with Andy Brassell and Ben Gladwell to cover the French tie and Bayern/United clash. We also had on former Premier League referee Dermot Gallagher to cover all dodgy calls throughout the Champion League Quarter Finals and even the Manchester United and Chelsea fixture from the weekend.<br><br>Friday brought the game back to our home soil... in terms of discussion of course. We started the show off with Jack Bell of the New York Times. Then we closed the show with New York Red Bull player, Mike Petke, who was in town to take on Chivas USA. But we used most of Friday to continue to dialogue on the Quarter Final leg of this year Champions League.<br><br>Now to the weekend's football. <br><br>The major match up this week was on Saturday: with Barcelona traveling to take on Real Madrid. After much emailing back and forth between all the crew at WFD, we can agree that the game wasn't on the same entertainment level as the Arsenal meeting just a few days earlier. But lets think about that. Just a few days before, Lionel Messi... I mean, Barcelona beat one of England's finest (at least, no mugs), and then they go on the road that weekend to take on the Galacticos in Madrid, and come away with a 2-0 El Classico win to top the table of La Liga. Not bad for one week's worth of work.<br><br>The other major game to see on Saturday wasn't the Chelsea v. Aston Villa FA Cup match, but the Serie A match up between Fiorentina and Inter Milan. Inter went to Florence and fumbled with a 2-2 draw against Fiorentina, keeping the race for the Scudetto interesting. AS Roma took the top place when they beat Atalanta. As for the FA Cup, you got to say that this weekend had a pretty predictable result on Saturday with Chelsea beating Villa, and a not so predictable result when Portsmouth beat Spurs on Sunday. I must say, that I predicted this on Friday when I took to the mic for The Big Debate.<br><br>There were some other big fixtures that help add to the twists and turns that come with the climax of the season ending: United drawing 0-0 at Blackburn, Milan drawing with Catania, and Cassano taking Sampdoria to beat their rivals Genoa. All good games and I am really looking forward to the discussion this week. <br><br>As for this week, you can look for WFD to continue to bring you the best correspondents, journalists, players and coaches from around the world. All you need to do is give up the Frappe for one day in the month. Not a bad compromise when you get to talk footy for everyday. Thanks for reading and make sure to tune into WFD all week long for more epic content.
Rafa
2010-04-12T16:00:00Z
WFD at the "SuperClassico"!
James
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/WFD-at-the-SuperClassico!/-51208330051096841.html
2010-04-02T16:00:00Z
2010-04-02T16:00:00Z
A hard fought and feisty battle between the LA Galaxy and Chivas USA saw the home side victorious in the LA derby.<br> <br>Edson Buddle got off the mark once again early in the game; this time in the 7th minute with a perfectly placed header to the near post. Landon Donovan swung the ball out wide to right back Sean Franklin who put in a superb cross for Buddle to head in the 1-0 lead. Buddle continued to show the great form he is in at the start of the season, bursting around Chivas defender, Michael Umana, and drawing the foul and the first yellow card of the game.<br> <br>The next LA chance came from a corner that Leonardo headed over.<br> <br>The only chance for Chivas USA in the first half came from Maykel Galindo who got in behind the Galaxy defense but Leonardo tracked back well to challenge the Cuban and force a shot wide.<br> <br>The rash challenges started coming in, no more so than Chris Birchall who picked up a yellow for his challenge in the 25th. The handbags came out when Edson Buddle was challenged by Chivas captain, Sacha Kljestan, and received a slight elbow in the jaw. Buddle was none to pleased, and got into the face of the Chivas captain and went too far for the referee's liking and was booked for unsporting behavior.<br> <br>A first half that saw thrice as many yellows as shots on goal, ended in the Galaxy's favor.<br> <br>The second half started out very slow with nothing going on in the first fifteen minutes.<br> <br>Jesus Padilla came on for Osael Romero and made an impact straight away, firing a shot just over the bar five minutes from coming on the pitch. In the 79th minute Chivas should have scored: Padilla got in on goal, from a ball over the top by Kljestan, his shot was saved by Rickets and the ball laid on a platter for the newly introduced, Maicon Santos, who shot over the bar with the goal at his mercy. Chance wasted.<br> <br>Seven minutes later a quick Chivas free kick to Mariano Trujillo, who crossed, found a teammate at the far post that was headed back across goal only to be put wide by Santos.<br> <br>Chivas started to make an impact with the changes they made, changing both starting forwards in the second half, in the game but could not convert the chances to get themselves back into this one.<br> <br>Chivas would rue their missed chances as Landon Donovan found he and Edson Buddle both behind the defense and the American international found his strike partner who coolly finished for the brace and the win.<br> <br>The Galaxy took game one in this season's 'Superclasico' and have two wins from two to start the season; Chivas have lost two from two and still in search of their first goal of the season. The Galaxy back-line has yet to concede this season and could prove to be one of the best defenses in the league this season. It would be hard to find a better center pairing than the Galaxy's Omar Gonzalez, who very well could be on Bob Bradley's radar, and Leonardo.<br> <br>It wasn't the best 'Superclasico', six shots by both teams, but the rivalry was still visible as the compete level of both teams was very high. <br><br>James, Assistant Producer of World Football Daily.
James
2010-04-02T16:00:00Z
MLS Opening Week
James
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/MLS-Opening-Week/-914662722161820040.html
2010-03-30T16:00:00Z
2010-03-30T16:00:00Z
James here, Assistant Producer of World Football Daily, covering MLS opening weekend for <br>you.<br><br> World Football Daily was at the Home Depot Center to cover both the Chivas USA v. <br>Colorado Rapids and LA Galaxy vs. New England Revolution games this weekend. We were also <br>very privileged to be at the Revolution practice on Friday, the day before their opening <br>kick-off. We were able to capture countless video of the highest quality with interviews <br>of many of the stars from all four teams. You can count on this type of coverage <br>throughout the MLS season here on World Football Daily.<br><br> The weekend started with our Friday trip to the training session of the New England <br>Revolution where we saw the Revs getting ready for their opening season encounter with <br>the Galaxy. We captured great footage of the training while also getting interviews with: <br>Manager Steve Nicol, Defender Cory Gibbs, Midfielder Chris Tierney, and Forward Kheli <br>Dube. The video is up now on wfdpremium.com, check out this great footage. Special thanks <br>to Lizz Summers for setting this up for us.<br><br> We came back later that day for the home opener for Chivas USA as they took on the <br>Colorado Rapids. Colorado started with a make-shift backline from last season, with <br>Marvel Wynne and Danny Earls as new comers to the back line; Jeff Larentowicz also made <br>his Rapids debut slotting into the midfield. Chivas decided to start two new boys: <br>Midfielder/Forward Osael Romero and Defender Michael Umana.<br><br> First half saw Chivas as the more dangerous team with a penalty shout in the 9th minute <br>that was not given, Saragosa had a shot that made goalkeeper Matt Pickens punch, who did <br>not look comfortable all game. Marvel Wynne had an excellent first half denying a <br>Gallindo chance in the 40th with a well-timed challenge. Colin Clark had the only real <br>scoring opportunity of the half for the Rapids with a long-range effort that went wide.<br><br> Chivas made a half-time change with Justin Braun coming on for Jorge Flores, moving <br>Braun up top with Gallindo and pushing Romero to the midfield. Colin Clark was the <br>Rapids? top midfielder for me all game and no more proof than in the opening goal of the <br>game where he drove up the left hand side and was able to get the ball to Omar Cummings <br>who spun and hit a low drive into the bottom corner for the goal. Good Finish by the <br>Jamaican. The rest of the game saw Colorado stay very organized and limit chances for <br>Chivas, only allowing one shot on goal in the second half. Final score: Colorado Rapids <br>1-0 Chivas USA.<br><br> It was the first ever win on the road to start a season for the Rapids and much of the <br>credit must go to the very organized back line. Man of the Match for me was Marvell <br>Wynne, looking to be on the plane to South Africa for the USA, limiting the number of <br>good opportunities that Chivas were able to create. Marshalling the back line, holding <br>the Goats to three shots, and catching them offside seven times in the match. Omar <br>Cummings also had a good game for the Rapids, did a lot of running and hard work for his <br>side up top with strike partner Conor Casey. I was impressed with the Rapids as a whole <br>and full marks to their Manager Gary Smith, who I thought out-coached Martin Vazquez in <br>this one. Superb road game by the Rapids.<br><br> We were able to grab Marvell Wynne for an interview in the tunnel after the game and <br>also went into the Chivas locker room and interviewed: Sacha Kljestan, Justin Braun, and <br>Chukwudi Chijindu.<br><br> Friday done. On to Saturday.<br><br> Saturday saw the defending Western Conference Champion LA Galaxy play the battered and <br>bruised, New England Revolution. Revs came into the game without Matt Reis, Taylor <br>Twellman, and Shalrie Joseph, while Emmanuel Osei got the nod over the very good yound <br>defender Darrius Barnes, who played every minute of every game last season, with Cory <br>Gibbs in the center of the defense; LA started two of the three Brazilians brought in <br>during the off-season, Juninho in the midfield and Leonardo at center back along with <br>impressive youngster, Omar Gonzales.<br><br> Galaxy were off to a flier with an Edson Buddle goal five minutes in. Landon Donovan, <br>back from his loan with Everton, swung in a beautiful free-kick and Buddle out-muscled <br>his man to head in the opener. Eddie Lewis was subbed off in the 26th minute with a left <br>foot contusion and was replaced with the newly acquired Brazilian, Alex Cazumba. Galaxy <br>looked dangerous from set-plays all first half and a Leonardo header in the 27th proved <br>that. Counter-attacking now, the Galaxy had an opportunity to score but Buddle?s effort <br>was blocked by Kevin Alston. New England was finding it hard creating chances in the half <br>with only one shot on a target, which was an easy save for Donovan Ricketts.<br><br> Second half saw Kelhi Dube -- who we interviewed the day prior -- miss two chances, one <br>in the 54th and one in the 58th minutes.<br><br> WFD team was tweeting all game long and we received a tweet from listener Norma, who was <br>at the game, wanting us to come visit her. So I did. It was great to meet a listener of <br>the show and I enjoyed my fifteen minute visit. Thank you for your support Norma!<br><br> Galaxy had numerous chances to put the game away in the second half, no more evident <br>than a Landon Donovan counter where he was clean in on goal, only to be unselfish and <br>pass, which was out of the reach of Cazumba.<br><br> Man of the Match for me has to be Edson Buddle. He was dangerous throughout with six <br>shots, two on target, and one goal; looks like Buddle could have a big season. He took an <br>elbow to the face in the second half, having just had braces removed two weeks ago, and <br>had to get a splint in behind his front bottom four teeth.<br><br> New England played well against one of the better MLS teams considering the injury list <br>they have upon them: only could dress 6 instead of 7 players on the bench. LA was <br>wasteful with a few too many chances and should have made the game more comfortable, but <br>three points is what they needed, and got. The center back pairing of Leonard and <br>Gonzales looks solid and they also have Greg Berhalter to slot in from time-to-time. They <br>could very well improve on last seasons defensive record where they gave up 31 goals.<br><br> After the game we go interviews with Sean Franklin and Omar Gonzales in the tunnel, and <br>went to locker room to interview: Landon Donovan, Todd Dunivant, and Edson Buddle.<br><br> It was a great weekend to kick-off the MLS season and we at WFD have excellent footage <br>of both games, and interviews with players and coaches. Look out for premium video?s of <br>this weekend?s action all next week at www.wfdpremium.com where you can get a taste of <br>what to expect from WFD?s coverage of the MLS this season.
James
2010-03-30T16:00:00Z
WFD Review
Rafa
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/WFD-Review/-309967405532801375.html
2010-03-25T16:00:00Z
2010-03-25T16:00:00Z
Hello, James here, Assistant Producer of World Football Daily. I joined the crew four <br>months ago to get involved with the number one football show in the world and have <br>enjoyed every minute of it. I am here to give you a review of the week, and a preview of <br>what we are looking forward to achieve at World Football Daily.<br><br>We at World Football Daily will be pleased to bring you full coverage of every MLS team <br>this season. Since we have two MLS teams in the Los Angeles area each team in the MLS <br>will have to travel here at least twice a season ? great opportunity to get coverage on <br>the teams. We are covering MLS opening weekend by attending both Chivas USA?s, Friday, <br>and LA Galaxay?s, Saturday, home openers. We have had a great week and it is yet to be <br>over with so much more coverage coming from the World Football Daily network.<br><br>Steven Cohen gave us the news that he will no longer support Chelsea FC, the club he has <br>supported for 40 years. Blasphemous? Maybe, but he his has reasons. Great news to start <br>the week.<br><br><br>We started this week off with the world-famous Arseblogger, who gave us his thoughts on <br>his beloved Arsenal and their chances on the title race. Can they win it? On Tuesday, we <br>completed the trio of Seria A commentator?s with, Max Patrick. Max will be commentating <br>on the AC Milan v. Lazio match this weekend and he says that he will be talking about his <br>interview on World Football Daily. Thank you Max! Want more of Max Patrick? Check out his <br>website, maxpatrick.net. Wednesday was quite the show; we started off with Pat Dolan from <br>Setanta, who gave us his incredible knowledge of the Premier League. We continued our <br>preview of the MLS with the Managers of New England, Steve Nicol, and Houston Dynamo, <br>Dominic Kinnear to give us a preview of their teams for the upcoming season. We also <br>heard from the great Tim Vickery covering all things South America.<br><br>Today?s show, Thursday, we bring in Sean Wheelock to talk about the MLS season CBA <br>agreement, and preview the MLS season. We also have Kris Voakes to talk all things Serie <br>A and Inter in the Champions League. On Friday we bring in the lovely Rebecca Lowe to <br>give us a Premier League preview of the weekend and play, everyone?s favorite game, I <br>Know the Score, with everyone?s favorite Aussie, Nick Mason. We also bring in Grant Wahl <br>to recap the MLS kick-off and give us his thoughts on the CBA negotiations and preview <br>the MLS season. We will also bring back ?El Luchador? to preview his Columbus Crew.<br><br>We were at the Home Depot Center yesterday (Wednesday, March 24) with the Chivas USA team <br>putting together a video segment of their training session and interviewing Sacha <br>Kljesten, Jonathan Bornstein, and Head Coach Martin Vazquez. This is the first of 16 MLS <br>team segments ? yes, we will get every team on video when they come to LA this season. On <br>Friday we will be getting the same coverage of the New England Revolution, who are <br>playing the LA Galaxy on Saturday. We will be giving you the ultimate coverage of all <br>things MLS so you can get all the info on your domestic league in the USA. Be on the <br>lookout for announcements of when we are putting these videos together, and when the <br>videos will be released.<br><br>We will be at the Home Depot Center, both Chivas USA on Friday and LA Galaxy on Saturday, <br>this weekend to cover MLS opening kick-off weekend. If you are in the LA area, be on the <br>lookout for the WFD boys at these games ? and tell your friends we will be there as well. <br>We would love to see you.<br><br>Next week is the return of the Champions League with the quarterfinals set to kick-off. <br>The big match-up being Arsenal v. Barcelona, where we are trying to set something us to <br>be at the Fox and Hounds pub for the second leg of that match. We would love to see you <br>there as well.<br><br>Keep listening for all the best coverage of the world of football, on World Football <br>Daily, your season ticket to travel the world of football as your number one source for <br>the beautiful game.<br><br>-James
Rafa
2010-03-25T16:00:00Z
Eric Frimpong's Appeal Denied
Rafa
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Eric-Frimpongs-Appeal-Denied/-627496404101601320.html
2010-03-17T17:10:00Z
2010-03-17T17:10:00Z
World Football Daily has been following the Eric Frimpong situation for quite sometime now, and today, we are sad to say that the Justice system has failed this country once again. Yesterday, Eric Frimpong's Appeal was denied in a California Court. Here is the email that broke the news. It gives us the links to all the specifics:<br><br>-----------<br>The following transaction has occurred in:<br>The People v. Frimpong<br>Case: B206433, 2nd District, Division 6<br><br>Disposition date (YYYY-MM-DD): 2010-03-16<br>Disposition description: Affirmed in full<br>Disposition status as of 2010-03-16: Final <br>Notes: <br>The judgment is affirmed. (23pgs) CGP <br><br><br><br>For more information on this case, go to:<br>http://appellatecases.courtinfo.ca.gov/search/case/disposition.cfm?dist=2&doc_id=1201545<br><br>For opinions, go to the following web site: http://www.courtinfo.ca.gov/cgi-bin/opinions.cgi?Courts=B<br>Court of Appeal opinions are generally available on the web site by 5 p.m. on the disposition date. <br>Unpublished opinions are generally available on the web site by 5 p.m. on the disposition date or <br>by 5 p.m. on the court workday following the disposition date. <br>----------<br><br>If you want to hear the Steven and Kenny's take on the decision, check out the "Interviews and Highlights" section of the archives here on the Premium site. WFD takes a definite stand on the case and cannot believe how this intelligent young man is still behind bars!
Rafa
2010-03-17T17:10:00Z
The Joys of Midweek Footie!
Rafa
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/The-Joys-of-Midweek-Footie!/832620066539962179.html
2010-03-11T05:25:00Z
2010-03-11T05:25:00Z
So we are only midway through the week, but there is so much going on here behind the scenes. Of course we have two days of Champions League action to cover with the clubs from England flexing their muscle against some fairly weak opponents. Hate to call teams like AC Milan and Porto weak, but the fact of the matter is that after two legs, both teams made a sad exit from the tournament.<br><br>You would have to say that so far, the Champions League has produced some entertaining football. Whether they are goal-fests or a simple 1-1 draw, the Champions League ties have had some real exciting stories being weaved into the fabric of this tournament. We here at WFD are happy to simply talk about the tournament. Hopefully we can plan a great Champions League Final Viewing Party somewhere to gather the WFD Community together. <br><br>Thursday is a huge day here in studio. The entire crew is gathering at 4:30am PST to await the phone-call of one, Mr. Harry Redknapp, Manager of Tottenham Hotspur. For Premium content, subscribers to the show will be lucky enough to hear the exclusive interview that Steven and Kenny get with the manager who is pushing his squad for a top four finish. The battle for fourth is getting interesting and the opportunity of European football is a very likely possibility for some teams who can find some positive consistency in the Premiership. Tottenham's schedule proves to be incredibly difficult ahead with visits to Arsenal and United still slated in the near future.<br><br>We also bring you Tim Vickery and Henry Winter in the live show. Two men who know their stuff. You can catch Tim, representing all of South American football on the BBC's World Football Phone-In, which is part of Five Live's Up All Night Program. But Tim also has a Blog he writes for the BBC where he informs his reader on all things South American football, whether it is the national players being farmed out to go abroad, or the domestic leagues across the South American Continent, Tim can speak volumes on any and all subjects. Henry Winter, who recently won a Sports Journalism Award for his work, will be joining Steven and Kenny to break down the Champions League, as well as the Premiership. <br><br>All in all, you would be fooling yourself if you didn't join the new World Football Daily Premium. As if all the audio interviews were not enough... Kenny and the Interns head to the HDC for an exclusive interview with the new Chivas USA coach, Martin Vasquez. WFD always has the premium content on a regular basis for our subscribers.
Rafa
2010-03-11T05:25:00Z
Madrid look to rid Diarra and Diarra
Betfair's View
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Madrid-look-to-rid-Diarra-and-Diarra/-386087282246108482.html
2009-08-26T17:00:00Z
2009-08-26T17:00:00Z
Betfair Guest Blogger- <br><br>Real Madrid are looking to sell Mahamadou Diarra, with reported interest coming from teams in England and Turkey for the midfielder.<br><br>The Mali international will be one of a number of midfielders who Madrid will be looking to get off their books due to the arrival of German pair Mesut Ozil and Sami Khedira in the summer.<br><br>Diarra has been at Real since 2006 when he signed from Lyon. The 29 year old is about to enter the final year of his contract with Madrid and will be allowed to leave for around the £6million mark.<br><br>Blackburn Rovers are reported to be leading the race to bring Diarra to England. Turkish giants Fenerbahce and Galatasaray are also monitoring the situation closely and may decide to swoop for the tough tackling midfielder.<br><br>Another Diarra who could be on his way out of the Santiago Bernabeu is Frenchman Lassana. The former Arsenal and Chelsea midfielder is reportedly closing in on a move to his third London club, Tottenham Hotspur.<br><br>Spurs manager Harry Redknapp signed the 25 year old when he was in charge of Portsmouth and is keen to team up with Diarra at his latest club. Diarra started 19 games in La Liga last season as Madrid finished second behind Barcelona in the league. Real will be hoping to beat their old rivals to the title this season but the <a href="http://news.ladbrokes.com/en-gb/football/european-football/la-liga-betting-odds.html">Spanish La Liga betting odds</a> suggest it will be a close run thing.<br><br>In his time in Madrid, Diarra has become a regular fixture in the French national team. He was unlucky to suffer a mysterious abdominal injury before this summer's World Cup, forcing him to withdraw from his country's disastrous campaign in South Africa.<br><br>Madrid president Fiorentino Perez is looking to sell the player rather than let him leave in a loan deal after investing heavily in new midfield talent this summer.<br><br>Meanwhile, Ozil's former club, Werder Bremen, got off to a disastrous start to the new Bundesliga season with a 4-1 reverse against TSG Hoffenheim. They are now less fancied in the <a href="http://news.ladbrokes.com/en-gb/football/european-football/bundesliga-betting-odds.html">German Bundesliga betting odds</a> as they sit rock bottom of the table after one game.
Betfair's View
2009-08-26T17:00:00Z
Adebayor Focused on City
Tom Mallows and Betfair's View
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/Adebayor-Focused-on-City/-484255804003657069.html
2009-08-22T17:00:00Z
2009-08-22T17:00:00Z
By Tom Mallows - <br><br>Manchester City striker Emmanuel Adebayor could be on his way out of Eastlands. The Togo striker was left on the bench for much of his side's opening league game against Tottenham, coming on with just eight minutes to go. His position has become more fragile with the signing of Italian front man Mario Balotelli. Real Madrid are keen to take Adebayor to the Bernabeu and are weighing up a move for the 26-year-old who scored 14 Premier League goals.<br><br>Real were one of the teams who took an interest in Adebayor last summer before City stepped in with £25 million bid to secure their man from Arsenal. Adebayor was given a full match in the week in the 1-0 Europa League victory over Romanian team Timisoara though which will give him some confidence.<br><br>He won't settle for a bit part place in this team but it looks as though Mancini is still confident in the striker. His record in the Premier League is pretty prolific, in his three years at Arsenal, Adebayor scored 46 goals for the Gunners. His carried that form with him to City and his 14 goals came in only 29 matches, including a goal against his former club which resulted in him running the length of the pitch to celebrate in front of the Gunners fans.<br><br>Adebayor has made it clear he isn't seeking a move and is happy at Eastlands. If he spends more of this season on the bench he may be forced to reassess his options. With rival strikers Jo, Robinho and Roque Santa Cruz on the verge of leaving the club, Adebayor will be crucial to Mancini. Despite Balotelli scoring on his debut against Timisoara, he has no experience of the Premier League and could take a while to adapt to the league. Many people have made Manchester City betting tips <a href="http://www.betfairfootball.com/premier-league/manchester-city/">Manchester City betting tips</a> for the title, but they need a proven goalscorer if they are to live up to this.<br><br>Adebayor knows what it takes to succeed in this league, his partnership with Carlos Tevez last year was a fruitful one and should be given a chance this season. Another bonus for City is the fact that Adebayor will be able to fully focus on his club side after taking the decision to retire from international football, meaning he won't be forced to travel to represent his country.<br><br>Meanwhile, most people now make Wolves betting tips <a href="http://www.betfairfootball.com/premier-league/wolverhampton-wanderers/">Wolves betting tips</a> to stay up this season after the side took four points from their first two games.<br><br>The side face Newcastle United in their next game.
Tom Mallows and Betfair's View
2009-08-22T17:00:00Z
The WFD Champions League Mock Draw
Rafa Gonzales
http://www.WorldFootballDaily.com/b/The-WFD-Champions-League-Mock-Draw/-725103389741236249.html
2003-12-16T19:00:00Z
2003-12-16T19:00:00Z
In today's show we did our official World Football Daily Champions League Mock Draw which we take with the utmost seriousness. Here is how the Champions League Round of 16 Knock-out Stage would look like if they left it up to Steven and Kenny, as performed in our live show.<br><br>Copenhagen FC v Schalke 04<br><br>Valencia v Shakhtar Donetsk<br><br>Arsenal FC v FC Barcelona<br><br>AC Milan v Chelsea FC<br><br>Lyon v Bayern Munich<br><br>Inter Milan v Real Madrid<br><br>Marseille v Manchester United FC<br><br>AS Roma v Tottenham Hotspurs<br><br>There are some real juicy match-ups here and one can only hope to see a rematch between Arsenal and Barcelona, Ancelotti go back to his old club AC Milan, or ever better, seeing Jose return to whip Rafa and his old Inter Milan squad. Would be magical, to say the least.<br><br>In today's show, we had some fantastic guests, including Miriam Elder of the Global Post to discuss what she is seeing in Russia with Fan rioting running rampant in the 2018 World Cup Host nation. Later in the show, we are joined by Eoin O'Callaghan who also gives his two cents on this issue. The Fox Soccer Channel correspondent also gives us his hopes for the Champions League draw and tells us what to expect this Sunday when Manchester United travel to London to take on Chelsea.<br><br>We also had a brilliant 30+ minute chat with current Vancouver Whitecaps' defender, and former Watford FC hero, Jay DeMerit. He is a brilliant man who is "humble and grounded" as describer by Steven. Jay opened up on his time spent in England, telling us stories of what it was like to be beaten by Manchester United and a Giggsy goal at Old Trafford, as well as how it felt to be promoted into the Premiership. The defender also went into great detail about his Confederation Cup experience beating Spain and how come the US kept leaking in early goals in their South African World Cup campaign. Well worth the listen if you have the time.<br><br><br><br>Look for WFD on Twitter <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/Chelcfc">@wfootballdaily</a> or join the World Football Daily <a href="http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/World-Football-Daily/321521090514">Facebook Fanpage</a>. <br>Keep up with all things WFD online, anytime at <a href="http://www.worldfootballdaily.com">WorldFootballDaily.com</a>worldfootballdaily.com.
Rafa Gonzales
2003-12-16T19:00:00Z