Posts Tagged Football
July 10, 2010 at 2:48 PM · Filed under Football, World Cup ·Tagged Alvaro Pereira, Arne Friedrich, Bastian Schweinsteiger, Diego Forlan, Diego Godin, Diego Perez, Edinson Cavani, Egidio Arévalo Ríos, Fernando Muslera, Football, Germany, Jerome Boateng, Joachim Loew, Jorge Fucile, Luis Suarez, Lukas Podolski, Manuel Neuer, Mauricio Victorinio, Maximiliano Pereira, Mesut Ozil, Miroslav Klose, Oscar Tabarez, Per Mertesacker, Philipp Lahm, Sami Khedira, Soccer, South Africa, Third Place match, Thomas Muller, Uruguay, World Cup 2010
The dream of reaching the final is over for Germany and Uruguay but both teams will want to go out of the 2010 World Cup on a high note by winning today’s third place match. The great thing about third place matches for spectators is that usually it is high scoring with both teams not having much to lose and therefore going all out to score. Also, third place matches are kinda like a day at the spa, all about relaxation, enjoyment, de-stressing before the most stressful, nail-biting of all matches, the Final.
Uruguay
Ranking: 16
Uruguay have been the dark horse of the tournament. They have won the World Cup twice but no one really remembers when and no one ever imagined they’d be playing to secure a 3rd place in this World Cup. Los Charrúas featured in the last four of a World Cup for the first time in 40 years. Uruguay’s journey at this World Cup has been a real adventure and full of surprises. They played the most dramatic match of this World Cup so far, winning in controversial manner and which might lead to the intoduction of goal-line technology and forever change the beautiful game. They also surprised the Dutch by putting up a real fight in the Semi-final losing by a narrow 3-2 scoreline. The nation of only 3 million people won the very first World Cup and hasn’t been a big achiever in football for a long long time and to be officially tagged as the ‘third best team at the World Cup’ would be a great achievement for this football crazy country.
Luis Suarez who was suspended for the Semi-Final against Netherlands will return for Uruguay however star striker Diego Forlan picked up an injury in the last match and could miss out. Oscar Tabarez will most likely go with his tried and tested 4-3-3 formation with Fernando Muslera in goal and Maximiliano Pereira, Mauricio Victorinio, Diego Godin, Jorge Fucile at the back. In the midfield Egidio Arévalo Ríos will sit back with Alvaro Pereira and Diego Perez expected to provide width. Edinson Cavani, Diego Forlan and Luis Suarez will play up front and form Uruguay’s attack.
Germany
Ranking: 6
To say that Germany have impressed is like saying that ‘Nutella’ is ‘ just alright’. They have made many football newbies and neutrals fall head over heels in love with them and left rival supporters shuddering at the prospect of meeting them in Euro 2012.The German football system is already being quoted as an example for nations who have been less fortunate (read England) in achieving their World Cup ambitions. Today, Joachim Loew will want his players to just go out there, play their game, enjoy the occasion and if Miroslav Klose can beat Ronaldo’s 15 goal World Cup record, it will be a bonus, albeit a deserved one. We will finally get to judge just how important the young Thomas Muller, who comes back into the starting XI after serving a one-match suspension, is to Germany’s cause. Unfortunately, Germany’s ‘national’ goal scoring machine Miroslav Klose might miss out on today’s game and an opportunity to set a new World Cup record due to an injury. Loew will go with a 4-2-3-1 formation with Manuel Neuer in goal and Arne Friedrich, Per Mertesacker, Philipp Lahm, Jerome Boateng at the back. Sami Khedira and Bastian Schweinsteiger will look to control the midfield. Miroslav Klose will lead Germany’s attack with Mesut Ozil and Thomas Muller and Lukas Podolski playing behind him.
Both team will definitely play an open game and will put up a good show for the fans as they bow out of the World Cup. It will be a chance for the fans to see some stars playing their last World Cup match and while other ‘newly’ discovered stars like Muller and Ozil will get an opportunity to impress the fans again and leave them with high expectations for the next World Cup. Today’s fixture is all about the joy of football and a tribute to skills and ability and spirit of both these wonderful teams. Germany’s young team might just win their consecutive World Cup 3rd place today.
Manager Speak
“Finishing fourth is not the same as third. We’ll go into the game with the same passion as we did against Holland.” – Oscar Tabarez, Uruguay manager
“Nobody needs to hang their heads low and we want to have a good final match.” – Joachim Loew, Germany manager
Stars to Watch Out For
Uruguay: Luis Suarez, Diego Forlan, Fernando Muslera
Germany: Thomas Muller, Miroslav Klose, Mesut Ozil, Bastian Schweinsteiger
Go Figure!
Uruguay’s loss to Holland in the semi-final was their first international defeat of 2010
This is a record fifth appearance in a World Cup third-place play-off match for Germany – they have won three times (1934, 1970 and 2006) and lost once (1958)
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July 7, 2010 at 2:49 PM · Filed under Football, World Cup ·Tagged Iker Casillas, Sergio Ramos, Football, Argentina, Fernando Torres, Soccer, England, South Africa, David Villa, World Cup 2010, Germany, Joachim Loew, Miroslav Klose, Australia, Bastian Schweinsteiger, Philipp Lahm, Sami Khedira, Spain, Xavi Hernandez, La Furia Roja, Vincente Del Bosque, Sergio Busquets, Carles Puyol, Gerard Pique, Joan Capdevila, Andres Iniesta, Cacau, Jerome Boateng, Per Mertesacker, Arne Friedrich, Xabi Alonso, Manuel Neuer, Semi-Finals, Lukas Podolski, Thomas Muellar, Sami Khedi, Mesut Ozil, Toni Koos, David Silva
The second Semi-Final of the World Cup 2010 has all the elements to make it a classic. It sees a young, vibrant, new-look German side who have been stamping their authority on the tournament round by round take on Spain who have not hit top-form in the tournament yet.
The fixture is a repeat of the 2008 European Championship Final in which Lukas Podolski was head-butted by David Silva in an incident missed by the officials and a Fernando Torres strike broke German hearts settling the match 1-0 in Spain’s favour. The Germans would like nothing more than to turn the tables on Spain today.
Spain who are often labelled as ‘underachievers’ at major tournaments, ‘partly’ got rid of that label with 2008 Euro win but their real test will be winning the World Cup, something they have never done before. Interestingly, Germany who are almost always favourites haven’t won the World Cup since reunification and will want to win it this time with their vibrant, multi-ethnic team.
Germany
Ranking: 6
Germany have been the surprise of the tournament. Joachim Loew’s team with so many young players coming in to replace injured experienced players and most players playing at changed positions was written off even before a ball was kicked. However, Germany in their first match against Australia won with an impressive 4 goals and single-handedly lighted up a World Cup which was till then looking quite drab. Doubters like me, continued to believe that the win was more courtesy of a poor performance by Australia than phenomenal German play. However, to prove that the performance against Australia was no fluke, Germany have since then repeated the feat of scoring 4 goals as they knockout heavyweights Argentina and England out of the tournament, on their way to the Semi-Final.
Its tough not to support this German side which quite sensibly favours youth and pace over the oft overrated experience and today will be another test for them. Germany are without the suspended Thomas Muellar while both Cacau and Sami Khedira have shaken off their injuries and will be available for today’s match. Thomas Muellar will most likely be replaced by Toni Koos on the right.
Germany manager Joachim Loew will go with a 4-2-3-1 formation with Manuel Neuer in goal and Arne Friedrich, Per Mertesacker, Philipp Lahm, Jerome Boateng at the back. Sami Khedira and Bastian Schweinsteiger will look to control the midfield. Mesut Ozil and Toni Koos will combine with Lukas Podolski and Miroslav Klose to form Germany’s attack.
For Germany to win today, they need Khedira and Schweinsteiger to control the formidable Spanish duo of Iniesta and Xavi Alonso in midfield. Another interesting battle will be the one down the German right and the Spanish left between David Villa and Philip Lahm. David Villa has been absolutely stunning in the World Cup and if the German captain can contain the Spaniard, he would have negated Spain’s most potent goal threat.
Spain
Ranking: 2
Spain came into the World Cup as one of the favourites. They have won every single game since their shock defeat against Switzerland in their World Cup opening match. However, La Furia Roja have yet to have as authoritative a win as Germany’s wins in their matches. Spain have struggled to find goals with Fernando Torres not being able to find form and defensive teams being successful in containing their midfield. Even Spain’s defence hasn’t looked its best. The free-scoring Spain have a reputation to protect today, with Germany’s 13 goals being more than double the number that Spain have managed so far.
Vincente Del Bosque will be faced with a tough decision about whether or not to keep Fernando Torres in the starting line-up. The striker has struggled to find form and playing him today might be Spain’s undoing. However, he did score the winner in the 2008 Euro and is a super finisher when he is in form. If the Liverpool striker is dropped he will most likely be replaced by Cescs Fabregas (who probably isn’t 100% fit) or David Silva (of Lukas Podolski headbutt fame).
Spain will go with a 4-2-3-1 formation with Iker Casillas in goal and Sergio Ramos,Carles Puyol, Gerard Pique, Joan Capdevila at the back. Sergio Busquets and Xabi Alonso sit ahead of them. Andres Iniesta, Xavi Hernandez and David Silva will make up Spain’s attacking midfield with David Villa up front.
Spain’s Carles Puyol who has been known to lose his focus sometimes cannot afford to do so today as he tries to keep Germany’s ‘national’ goal scoring machine Miroslav Klose at bay. Sergio Busquets is another player whose performance could be crucial for Spain. The Barcelona star must contain one of the stars of the 2010 World Cup and the most likely to win ‘the best young player’ award for this World Cup Mesut Ozil from supplying to Germany’s attackers, for Spain to frustrate Germany.
Spain have the best midfield in the tournament while Germany have the best attack in the tournament. Spain must not make the mistake Argentina and England made against Germany and need to control the game and keep their organisation to win. So far, Germany have been defying the odds and winning. However, Spain are still Spain and can’t be written off just because they aren’t in top-gear yet. They can turn it on anytime and are dangerous even when they aren’t at their best.
Manager Speak
“Spain do not have one Messi. They have more than one Messi. Especially in attack there are many players who can decide a game. Spain are not like England and Argentina, teams that make mistakes.” – Joachim Loew, Germany manager
“We know we can play better than we have done so far, hopefully it will be an open match and a good advert for football.” – Vincente Del Bosque
Lucky Charms
Germany
Okay, so the octopus has ditched Germany by predicting a Spain win. However, Germany have another potent weapon in Joachim Loew’s blue jumper which the manager was wearing when Germany beat Argentina and England. Loew will be wearing the blue jumper today and so far whenever he dons the blue sweater, Germany score 4 goals. Spain you have been warned.
Spain
If Germany have their blue sweater, Spain have Rafael Nadal. Yep, the Spanish tennis star. The last time Nadal won the Wimbledon (his first Wimbledon title), Spain won the Euro. He has won the Wimbledon again. Germany you have been warned.
Stars to Watch Out For
Germany: Miroslav Klose, Mesut Ozil, Bastian Schweinsteiger, Lukas Podolski
Spain: David Villa, Xavi Hernandez, Andres Iniesta, Sergio Ramos
Go Figure!
Thomas Müller could be missed – he has scored four goals from four shots on target in this tournament
David Villa is one goal away from equalling Raúl’s record as Spain’s all-time top scorer (44)
Xavi has completed more passes at the World Cup (404) than any other player
All 14 of Miroslav Klose’s World Cup goals have come in open play and from inside the box, and half of them have been headers.
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July 6, 2010 at 1:13 PM · Filed under Football, Uncategorized, World Cup ·Tagged Alvaro Pereira, Arjen Robben, Bert van Marwijk, Demy de Zeeuw, Diego Forlan, Diego Godin, Diego Perez, Dirk Kuyt, Edinson Cavani, Egidio Arévalo Ríos, Fernando Muslera, Football, Giovanni van Bronckhorst, Gregory van der Wiel, John Heitinga, Jorge Fucile. Diego Lugano, Joris Mathijsen, Khalid Boulahrouz, La Celeste, Luis Suarez, Maarten Stekelenburg, Mark van Bommel, Martin Caceres, Maurice Victorino, Maximiliano Pereira, Netherlands, Nigel De Jong, Orange, Oscar Tabarez, Robin Van Persie, Semi-Finals, Soccer, South Africa, Uruguay, Walter Gargano, Wesley Sneijder, World Cup 2010
When we talk about South American teams, we usually mean Argentina or Brazil. No one ever thinks about Uruguay even though Uruguay won the very first World Cup. This time Uruguay have made people sit up and pay attention. Their win over Ghana which assured them a place in the Semi-Finals was undoubtedly the most dramatic of this World Cup. Since Uruguay have outlasted Brazil, Argentina and Paraguay in the tournament they are South America’s only hope to win the 2010 World Cup. No one could have guessed that La Celeste who qualified for this year’s competition after winning a play-off against Costa Rica would be only one win away from a place in the single biggest football match, the World Cup Final. Uruguay haven’t even made it to the final since 1950 and Oscar Tabarez’s team wants to change that. Netherlands on the other hand, like Spain, have always had a talented team but failed to achieve real glory. Oranje haven’t been past the semis in 32 years after having made it to consecutive finals in 1974 and 1978 where they lost to West Germany and Argentina respectively. Usually, its Brazil that bursts the Oranje bubble but this time the Dutch have already sent the Brazilians packing and will therefore feel this to be their best chance in a long time, to win the World Cup.
Uruguay
Ranking: 16
Uruguay is a small nation steeped in football history. They play a game which is more scrappy and physical and quite unlike the quintessential flamboyant South American ‘samba’ style of football. They qualified for the knockout stages as winners of Group A by drawing against France and beating South Africa and Mexico. It was in the knock-out stages in their game against Ghana where things took a turn for the dramatic for Uruguay. In the first half of stoppage time, Ghana scored and it looked like Uruguay were going back home. However,Diego Forlan had other ideas and leveled the score in the second half of stoppage time by netting one for the South Americans. In the last minute of added time however, Ghana struck again but this time, Luis Suarez handled the ball on the line but stopping a sure shot goal. Suarez was sent off and Ghana were awarded a penalty. Once again, it looked certain that the South Americans were on their way out. However, Ghana’s Asamoah Gyan missed and the game went to a penalty shoot with Uruguay still hanging on. And then, La Celeste broke Ghanaian hearts and won 5-3 on penalty kicks.
It is this kind of ’never-die-spirit’ that can once again be expected from Uruguay today. Oscar Tabarez has so far been able to select a steady team but today he will be without the suspended Luis Suarez and Jorge Fucile. Diego Lugano, who went off early in the game against Ghana with a knee problem is also unlikely to star in today’s game. However, defender Diego Godin has recovered from his injury and will be available for today’s match. Tabarez will most likely go with a 4-4-2 formation with Fernando Muslera in goal and Maximiliano Pereira, Diego Godin, Maurice Victorino and Martin Caceres forming Uruguay back four. In the midfield, Egidio Arévalo Ríos and Walter Gargano will hold the midfield and shield the back four. Alvaro Pereira and Diego Perez will provide width when they can. Edinson Cavani will partner Diego Forlan up front in leading Uruguay’s attack.
Uruguay want to win this game bad and they have a great defence and are dangerous up front. They will put up a great fight and cannot be taken lightly.
Netherlands
Ranking: 4
Netherlands are yet to lose a game in South Africa and dutch striker Wesley Sneijder is the joint-highest scorer at the World Cup. Oranje beat favourites Brazil 2-1 in their last match to progress to the quarterfinals. All these stats point to a very strong World Cup campaign so far and yet many still feel that Netherlands are still not in top gear. They definitely seem to be the team that will peak at absolutely the right time. They go into this game as favourites and are expected to beat Uruguay. However, the same was expected of the Dutch in their Euro 2008 quarter- final match against Russia which they lost in extra time. Today, Netherlands must avoid complacency or once again it could become their undoing.
The Netherlands manager Bert van Marwijk, has a formidable record of 13 wins from 13 games in competitive matches and will want to keep it that way. He will be without the suspended Gregory van der Wiel and Nigel de Jong and will most likely replace them with Khalid Boulahrouz and Demy de Zeeuw. Luckily for Netherlands, Robin Van Persie’s elbow injury wasn’t serious and neither was Joris Mathijsen’s knee-problem and both of the players are expected to star in today match. Marwijk will most likely go with his favourite 4-2-3-1 formation with Maarten Stekelenburg in goal and John Heitinga, Joris Mathijsen, Giovanni van Bronckhorst and Khalid Boulahrouz at the back. Demy De Zeeuw and Mark van Bommel will hold midfield for Holland. Robin Van Persie will play alone up-front with offensive midfielders Dirk Kuyt, Arjen Robben and Wesley Sneijder behind him.
Netherlands will look to control the ball and the pace of the game with Wesley Sneijder and Arjen Robben making life very tough for the Uruguan defence while the Dutch defender John Heitinga will look to keep his former club mate from Athletico Madrid Diego Forlan from scoring for Uruguay.
Uruguay are without Luis Suarez and that tips the balance in Netherlands favour. However, Netherlands is without Nigel De Jong, whose tackles will be sorely (pun unintended!) missed. Netherlands must keep focus to win today.
Manager Speak
“We will certainly not throw in the towel before playing that match. Holland will be very difficult but not impossible.” – Oscar Tabarez, Uruguay manager
“Uruguay didn’t reach the final for nothing, so we have to really focus again and not think that we’re already there.” - Bert van Warwijk, Netherlands manager
Stars to Watch Out For
Uruguay: Diego Forlan, Diego Perez, Edinson Cavani
Netherlands: Arjen Robben, Wesley Sneijder, Dirk Kuyt, Robin Van Persie
Go Figure!
These sides have met on four occasions in total, with Uruguay winning three matches and the Dutch one.
Three of Diego Forlán’s four goals in World Cup finals history have come from outside the box
Wesley Sneijder has now scored five goals in his last seven internationals
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July 3, 2010 at 4:59 PM · Filed under Football, World Cup ·Tagged Andres Iniesta, Antolin Alcaraz, Aureliano Torres, Carles Puyol, Carlos Bonet, Claudio Morel, David Villa, Enrique Daniel Vera, Fernando Torres, Football, Gerardo Martino, Gerrard Pique, Iker Casillas, Joan Capdevilla, Justo Villar, La Furia Roja, Miguel Riveros, Nelson Valdez, Paraguay, Paulo Da Silva, Roque Santa Cruz, Segio Ramos, Sergio Busquets, Soccer, South Africa, Spain, Vincente Del Bosque, World Cup 2010, Xabi Alonso, Xavi Hernandez
This match will see history created regardless of which team wins as both Paraguay and Spain have never reached the Semi-final of a World Cup.
Paraguay
Ranking: 31
Paraguay were never expected to reach the quarter-finals. They got a little lucky as all teams in their group didn’t play to their potential with Italy being the guiltiest of that crime. Paraguay managed to draw their games against Slovakia and Italy. Against Japan, Paraguay won on penalties after goalless draw courtesy a Japan side that can defend beautifully but just can’t score. Today’s game against Spain is Paraguay’s chance to leave cynics dumfounded. Gerardo Martino will most likely, go with a 4-4-2 formation with Nelson Valdez and Roque Santa Cruz leading Paraguay’s attack. Victor Caceres, who missed the match against Japan due to suspension, will be available for today’s match and should make the starting XI alongside Enrique Daniel Vera, Miguel Riveros and Aureliano Torres in midfield. Carlos Bonet, Paulo Da Silva, Antolin Alcarez and Claudio Morel will form Paraguay’s back four with Justo Villar in goal.
Spain
Ranking: 2
Spain lost to Switzerland in their World Cup opener. This shock was probably the best thing that happened to La Furia Roja because since then Spain have simply got better and better with every game. Spain were sublime in their 1-0 win against Euro Finalists Portugal. They completely outplayed Portugal; the 1-0 score line not really doing justice to their performance. Spain undoubtedly have one of the best attacking line-ups and their coach Vincente Del Bosque will most likely put out a 4-3-3 formation. Fernando Torres will keep his position in the starting XI despite being terribly out of form. He along with David Villa and Andres Iniesta will lead Spain’s attack with Xavi Hernandez, Sergio Busquets, Xabi Alonso making up Spain’s midfield. At the back, Spain have quite a solid defence. Segio Ramos,Gerrard Pique, Carles Puyol, Joan Capdevilla form Spain’s defensive backbone with captain Iker Casillas in goal.
Manager Speak
I do not know if all teams have the heart of Paraguay. For over 20 days of the World Cup, nobody has matched us. – Gerardo Martino, Paraguay manager
“We know we’re in good shape. It’s been more than 30 days together training as a team and I think these players want to make history.” – Vincente Del Bosque, Spain manager
Stars to Watch Out For
Paraguay: Nelson Valdez, Roque Santa Cruz, Enrique Daniel Vera, Antolin Alcarez
Spain: David Villa, Andres Iniesta, Xavi Hernandez
Go Figure!
Roque Santa Cruz is now without a goal in 799 minutes at the World Cup
Xavi created eight goalscoring chances in his last match against Portugal, no player has created more in a single game at this World Cup
Paraguay will be playing in their first-ever World Cup quarter-final
Spain have never won a quarter-final tie at the World Cup, losing two of their four quarter-finals on penalties including their most recent against South Korea
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July 3, 2010 at 1:29 PM · Filed under Football, World Cup ·Tagged Angel Di Maria, Argentina, Arne Friedrich, Bastian Schweinsteiger, Carlos Tevez, Diego Maradona, Football, Gabriel Heinze, Germany, Gonzalo Higuain, Javier Mascherano, Jerome Boateng, Joachim Loew, Lionel Messi, Lucas Podolski, Manuel Neuer, Martin Demichelis, Maxi Rodriguez, Mesut Oezil, Miroslav Klose, Nicolas Burdisso, Nicolas Otamendi, Per Mertesacker, Philipp Lahm, Sami Khedira, Sergio Romero, Soccer, South Africa, Thomas Mueller, World Cup 2010
The quarter-final clash between Argentina and Germany promises to make up for the lack of goals in this World Cup since both the teams have a somewhat weak defence and very good attacking line-up. Both teams are very strong in their attack and relatively weak in their defence which hold promise of some exciting and entertaining footballing moments. Add to that the history of rivalry between the two giants in World Cup and we can be sure of some vintage football today. In 2006 Germany beat Argentina on penalties in the quarter-finals, results which lead to a scuffle between some players and the coaching staff of the two teams making the fixture the most eagerly awaited contest of the World Cup2010.
Both teams, Germany because of their young and inexperienced players and Argentina, mainly due to their mercurial manager were not considered great threats coming in to the World Cup. Both teams have gotten to this stage of the tournament having overcome major challenges to reach the World Cup. So, will Diego Maradona’s men self-destruct or will Joachim Loew’s team find South American football too hot to handle?
Argentina
Ranking: 7
Argentina have an exceptionally talented team going forward. Diego Maradona was criticized for some of his tactical decisions and team selections during Argentina’s qualification run to the World Cup but Maradona has got everything in the World Cup. Argentina’s performance against Mexico in the Round of 16 showed that the Albiceleste are growing stronger as we move into the business end of the tournament. Maradona will most likely go with a 4-3-1-2 formation with Romero in goal. Otamendi, Demichelis, Burdisso and Heinze will need to keep calm at the back and control the midfield so that Angel Di Maria and Maxi Rodriguez can make their runs on the flanks and pass the ball to Messi. Messi will then look to create chances for Higuain and Tevez who’ll play up front for Argentina.
Argentina have a better attacking force and superior players than Germany. They have the current World Player of the Year in Messi who is yet to open his scoring account at the World Cup. Argentina’s however do need to be extra focused and keep their formation, or else they will get caught out by Germany on the counter. Argentina’s defence is yet to be tested in this World Cup and Germany can be counted upon to test it. Argentina defender Demicheles will need to stop his Bayern Munich teammate Miroslav Klose who is in great form for Germany from scoring. Argentina will also need their captain Javier Mascherano who will have to play his part as defensive midfielder perfectly apart from shielding his back four, Mascherano will also need to keep Germany’s Mesut Ozil out.
Germany
Ranking: 6
Joachim Loew’s German side is what many a football associations dream of; a team. Germany have managed to put together a bunch of footballers who aren’t stars as individuals but are absolutely sparkling as a team. The new German side is made up of a mix of youth and experience with a never-say-die attitude. Germany most certainly will be a force to reckon with come next World Cup. Joachim Loew’s side showed that they were masters of counter-attacks in their game against England. However, Argentina are no England and will pose a much tougher challenge for them. Loew will most likely play 4-2-3-1 formation with Miroslav Klose as the lone striker. Mueller, Oezil, Podolski will play just behind him with Sami Khedira and Bastian Schweinsteiger playing as holding midfielders. Friedrich, Mertesacker, and Boateng will be at the back for Germany with Nuer in goal.
Germany are quite well organized and have a good defence. However, their defence has not been truly tested so far. They launch blinding, breathtaking counter-attacks and will look to do the same against Argentina.
Argentina have quality in their attack and hopefully in defence to win this match. Germany have probably been judged to be a little better than they are after they beat England. They were great against England, but the England team (under Fabio Capello) wasn’t a ‘real’ World Cup favourite. England was more of a ‘very well supported team’ rather than a very ‘likely to win the World Cup’ team. Germany’s real test against a real top-class team will be today. I see Diego Maradona celebrating at the end of this fixture.
Manager Speak
“This time we will not need the Hand of God, because it is the will of God.” – Diego Maradona, Argentina manager
“They will definitely be extremely dangerous. I’m sure they will try and get a goal very soon. I don’t think they’ll come onto the pitch with any extra fear or respect.” – Joachim Loew, Germany manager
Players to Watch Out For
Argentina: Lionel Messi, Gonzalo Higuain, Carlos Tevez. Angel Di Maria
Germany: Miroslav Klose, Mesut Ozil, Thomas Muellar, Bastian Schweinsteiger
Go Figure!
Diego Maradona is yet to draw a match as Argentina manager
Germany have only ever failed to score with one of their 18 shots in penalty shoot-outs at the World Cup
Miroslav Klose’s goal against England was the 12th of his World Cup career. Only Just Fontaine (13), Gerd Müller (14) and Ronaldo (15) have scored more at the tournament
Lionel Messi has attempted more shots (23) without scoring in this World Cup than any other player
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July 2, 2010 at 1:19 PM · Filed under Football, World Cup ·Tagged Arjen Robben, Bert van Marwijk, Brazil, Dirk Kuyt, Dunga, Dutch, Felipe Melo, Felipe Melo de Carvalho, Football, Gilberto Aparecido Silva, Gilberto Silva, Giovanni van Bronckhorst, Gregory van der Wiel, Holland, Johan Cruyff, Johan Neeskens, John Heitinga, Joris Mathijsen, Juan, Julio Caesar, Kaka, Lucio, Luis Fabiano, Maarten Stekelenburg, Maicon, Mark van Bommel, Michel Fernandes Bastos, Netherlands, Nigel De Jong, Nilmar, Phillip Cocu, Robin Van Persie, Robinho, Soccer, South Africa, Wesley Sneijder, World Cup 2010
Both Brazil and Netherlands play beautiful football, both of them have improved their defence but only one of them will make it to semi-final of the World Cup. The Oranje and the Canarinho, have met twice in the quarter-finals previously in 1974 World Cup and in the 1994 World Cup and have one win a piece. In 1974, the second round used to lead directly to the semi-finals and it was Netherlands who knocked Brazil out of the World Cup with goals from Johan Cruyff and Johan Neeskens. However, in 1994, goals from Brazil’s got their revenge and won 3-2, knocking the Netherlands out of the World Cup.
Brazil won on penalties in the in the 1998 Semi-final meeting between the two teams. The current Brazil manager, Dunga had successfully found the back of the net from the penalty spot while one of the Dutch manager Marwijk’s assistant, Phillip Cocu had missed his. Will Cocu’s Netherlands finally beat Dunga’s Brazil?
Netherlands
Ranking:4
Bert van Marwijk has had his critics including the Dutch striker Robin Van Persie, however he has only lost one match as manager ever since he took up the job of managing the national side. Netherland’s have not looked very convincing in the World Cup so far but have managed to get results. Today’s match promises to be a real challenge for the Dutch. Marwijk will most likely go with a 4-2-3-1 formation with Maarten Stekelenburg in goal. Their defence will be lead by their captain Giovanni van Bronckhorst, who has had a very good World Cup campaign so far along with Gregory van der Wiel, John Heitinga and Joris Mathijsen. Netherland’s strength is their midfield. Today’s match depends on how well Netherland’s two-holding midfielders Mark van Bommel and Nigel De Jong recover balls, keep possession and support the back four. Netherland’s attack will be lead by Robin Van Persie playing up front with Arjen Robben, Dirk Kuyt and Wesley Sneijder just sitting behind him. Netherland’s had a relatively easy path to the quarter-finals and today’s match against Brazil will be by far the most difficult challenge that Netherlands has faced in the last two years.
Brazil
Ranking: 1
If ranking is anything to go by, well they are the BEST. However, Dunga’s Brazil many claim doesn’t play attractive football anymore. Good football however is not always attractive football and Brazil have qualified to this stage by winning was was called the ‘Group of Death’. And, they played pretty attractive football in their 3-0 win over Chile! So Dunga seems to know very well when Brazil can afford to play attractive football and when they need to just get a result. For the first time in a very long time, Brazil have a very good defence. This is their strength and they will need to be on guard against the Dutch midfield bursting with talent. Dunga will most likely also go with a 4-2-3-1 formation with Julio Caesar, one of the best goalkeepers in the world in goal. Maicon, Lucio, Juan and Michel Fernandes Bastos will be at the back for Brazil. Gilberto Silva and Felipe Melo will hold midfield and control the Dutch attack. Kaka, Nilmar Robinho and Luis Fabiano will form Brazil’s attack. Netherlands will need to watch out for Brazil’s wingers. Giovanni Van Bronckhorst could get caught out by the pace of the Brazilian wingers. Robinho will most likely push infield and any concentration lapse by Mark Van Bommel will result in a Robinho goal!
Brazil are happy to just keep possession till they strike. They do not launch hopeful long balls to Luis Fabiano and instead try and weave their way through the opposition’s defence. This is bound to frustrate Netherlands who also like to keep possession. Just because Brazil keep possession doesn’t mean that they are in any way less dangerous on the counter. The second an opposition’s move comes to a halt, Brazil run with the ball.
Netherlands will need to be extra vigilant if they really want to make it to the Semi-finals.
The match will be physical. It will be like a chess match at times. It is bound to be a very close one with one moment of brilliance from either of the teams deciding the outcome. It might even go to penalties, if it does, then Netherland will win.
Manager Speak
“Brazil are a very mature and stable team. We might be the underdogs against Brazil, for the first time in the World Cup.” – Bert van Marwijk, Netherlands manager
“Holland have a good tradition at the World Cup, we have to be very careful with the Dutch players, they are very technically able.” – Dunga, Brazil manager
Stars to Watch Out For
Netherlands: Arjen Robben, Wesley Sneijder, Dirk Kuyt, Giovanni van Bronckhorst
Brazil: Luis Fabiano, Robinho, Kaka, Maicon
Go Figure!
The Holland midfielder Wesley Sneijder has scored four goals in his last six internationals
Luís Fabiano has hit 13 goals in his last 13 competitive appearances for Brazil
Holland are on a national record 23-game unbeaten run
Brazil have lost only one of their last 30 games
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June 30, 2010 at 4:45 PM · Filed under Football, World Cup ·Tagged FIFA, Football, robbery, Soccer, South Africa, World Cup 2010, World Cup trophy
If England, Italy and France want the World Cup, all they need to do is track down a group of burglers. It has been reported that FIFA’s temporary headquarters in Johannesburg have been burgled. The robbers walked away with sports equipment and get this, 7 World Cup trophies (!!!), albeit replicas. The replicas were used mostly as gifts for officials and each trophy was worth an estimated $225.
The South African police commissioner Gen. Bheki Cele told reporters earlier today:
“We know there was a burglary at the FIFA offices. Seven replicas of the World Cup were stolen and several sweaters. Police are looking into it.”
Since the World Cup began, the police have arrested 316 people for various crimes related to the tournament, mostly cell phone thieves and forged tickets sellers.Reports claim authorities believe it to have been an inside job and are looking for suspects “very familiar with the environment in the FIFA offices”.
FIFA, who have had a very embarrassing week already, with the Frank Lampard and Carlos Tevez goal controversy are yet to make a statement about the incident.
Article first published as World Cup Trophies Stolen on Technorati.
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June 29, 2010 at 5:16 PM · Filed under Football, Uncategorized, World Cup ·Tagged Andres Iniesta, Bruno Alves, Carles Puyol, Carlos Queiroz, Cristiano Ronaldo, Danny, David Villa, Deco, Eduardo, Fabio Coentrao, Fernando Torres, Football, Gerrard Pique, Jabulani, Joan Capdevilla, Liedson, Paulo Ferreira, Pepe, Portugal, Raul Meireles, Ricardo Carvalho, Sergio Busquets, Sergio Ramos, Simao Sabrosa, Soccer, South Africa, Spain, Tiago, Vincente Del Bosque, World Cup 2010, Xabi Alonso, Xavi Hernandez, Xavi Martinez
Two years ago, on this day, Spain beat Germany to break their major tournament jinx and lift the European Championship trophy. Today, they can continue on that tradition and take a very significant step towards breaking their World Cup hex by beating neighbours Portugal. The two teams have met 32 times in international football. Portugal have won just five matches, Spain 15 and there have been 12 draws. However, Spain have only beaten Portugal once in ten matches since 1958 and the last time the two teams met Portugal won 1-0, knocking Spain out of the 2004 Euro in the group stages.
Spain
Ranking: 2
Spain entered the World Cup as favourites for the first time. They have always had a talented, entertaining team but since they always underachieved at major tournaments, no one really ever thought of them as favourites. All that changed however,with their 2008 win at the European Championships and now Spain have to live with the pressure of expectation every time they get on the pitch. It is probably this pressure to perform which saw Spain unable to score against Switzerland and also concede a very sloppy goal which made their last game in the group stages a must-win game. The European champions, however, have gotten over that shock dealt to them by the Swiss and have looked good against Honduras and Chile but that defeat showed other teams how to beat Spain.
Spain manager, Vincente Del Bosque will most likely play a 4-2-3-1 formation with Iker Casillas in goal. Sergio Ramos, Gerrard Pique, Carles Puyol, Joan Capdevilla will form Spain’s back four. Xabi Alonso who sprained his ankle during Spain’s 2-1 win over Chile, will most likely be replaced by Xavi Martinez who will play alongside Sergio Busquets in defensive mid-field. Andres Iniesta, Xavi Hernandez and David Villa will make up Spain’s attacking midfield and support Fernando Torres in front.
Portugal have great wingers who pose a massive threat to Spain on the counter and Sergio Ramos and Joan Capdevilla will have to be extra sharp today.
Portugal
Ranking: 3
Portugal have Cristiano Ronaldo. That is all that most people seem to relate with Portugal. Cristiano is definitely one of those players that can change the complexion of any game and since Cristiano hasn’t been extremely effective for his national side, many people wrote off Portugal’s chances. However, Portugal have proved that although they may not play the prettiest of football at times, they have found a way of staying in the competition and getting results. They managed a very good albeit dull draw against Ivory Coast and then held Brazil. Anyone who can keep Brazil from scoring is dangerous in their own way. Portugal have transformed themselves in to a very good defensive side. They are yet to concede a goal in the World Cup and have kept 22 clean sheets in their last 26 matches. Furthermore, they have gone 19 games unbeaten under coach Carlos Queiroz. Portugal’s only weakness it seems is their inability to score goals and that they lack an out and out striker. However, they do have incredibly talented wingers in Cristiano Ronaldo and Simao Sabrosa who can catch any team on the counter. So even though, it seems impossible for any team to keep the very talented Spanish squad from scoring, Portugal just might. Also, if Cristiano Ronaldo can tame the Jabulani, Portugal would have a great advantage from set pieces especially since Iker Casillas and Spain are not the best, at defending set-pieces.
Portugal manager, Carlos Queiroz will most likely play a 4-3-3 formation with Eduardo in goal. Paulo Ferreira, Bruno Alves, Ricardo Carvalho, Fabio Coentrao will form ‘the great wall of Portugal’. Although Deco has recovered from the hip injury that forced him to miss Portugal’s final Group G game against Brazil, he is unlikely to be in the starting line-up as Tiago has done very well so far. Another player sure to miss out is the injured midfielder Danny. Pepe will most likely retain his position in Portugal’s midfield alongside Tiago and Raul Meireles and Portugal’s attack will be lead by Simao Sabrosa and Cristiano Ronaldo playing on the wing on either side of Liedson.
Although, Spain have to be the favourites going in to this match considering the quality they have in their team, Portugal cannot be counted out especially since they have a very good defence and have players that can be lethal on counter-attacks. The match bound to be a very close one and if it goes to extra time, then Portugal will win.
Manager Speak
“Portugal are going to be a very tough side. I take no satisfaction from the fact we’re up against Portugal instead of Brazil. They are both great national teams.”- Vincente Del Bosque, Spain manager
“We want to win this game from the very first minute.” – Carlos Queiroz, Portugal manager
Stars to Watch Out For
Spain: David Villa, Andres Iniesta,Xavi Hernandez, Fernando Torres
Portugal: Cristiano Ronaldo, Raul Meireles, Tiago, Simão Sabrosa
Go Figure!
David Villa has scored six goals in six starts at the World Cup and is now the all-time top scorer for Spain at the tournament.
Portugal have failed to score in their last two World Cup knockout matches – 0-0 (aet) against England in the quarter-final and a 1-0 defeat to France in the semi-final in 2006.
Spain have kept clean sheets in 26% of their World Cup games (nine out of 34) since the start of the 1982 tournament
Portugal have conceded just one goal in their last 12 internationals.
Spain were the first team since Hungary in 1986 not to collect a single card in the group stages of a World Cup tournament
If Portugal avoid defeat in this match they will set a new national team record of 20 games unbeaten in all competitions
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June 29, 2010 at 1:20 PM · Filed under Football, Uncategorized, World Cup ·Tagged Antolin Alcaraz, Blue Samurai, Carlos Bonet, Claudio Morel, Cristian Riveros, Daisuke Matsui, Edgar Barreto, Eiji Kawashima, Enrique Vera, Football, free kick, Gerardo Martino, Group F, Jabulani, Japan, Justo Villar, Keisuke Honda, Lucas Barrios, Makoto Hasebe, Marcus Tulio Tanaka, Nelson Valdez, Paraguay, Paulo Da Silva, Roque Santa Cruz, Soccer, South Africa, Takeshi Okada, Victor Caceres, World Cup 2010, Yasuhito Endo, Yoshito Okubo, Yuichi Komano, Yuji Nakazawa, Yuki Abe, Yuto Nagatomo
Japan are to Asia what Ghana are to Africa i.e. the last nation left standing at the World Cup from the continent. They play Paraguay in today’s knock out match and whoever wins, makes history as neither of these sides have made it to the quarter-finals of a World Cup before.
Paraguay
Ranking: 31
Paraguay were the surprise winners of Group F which also had the defending champions Italy in it. They are the minnows of South America and won their group by winning one match and scoring just 3 goals. Their strength lies is their defence which has seen then concede only 1 goal in South Africa. Another thing working to the South American’s advantage against Japan will be their large forwards.
Paraguay manager, Gerardo Martino will most likely go with a 4-3-3 formation with Justo Villar in goal and Carlos Bonet, Antolin Alcaraz, Paulo Da Silva, Claudio Morel at the back. Paraguay’s 3-man midfield made up of Enrique Vera, Cristian Riveros and Victor Caceres has been a crucial factor in their success at this World Cup. However, Victor Caceres is suspended for today’s match, having picked up 2 yellow cards and will be replaced by Edgar Barreto. Paraguay have quality strikers in their line-up but have struggled to score in their last matches. They will look to Roque Santa Cruz, Lucas Barrios and Nelson Valdez to change that today.
Japan
Ranking: 45
Many considered the possiblity of the Japan manager Takeshi Okada having lost his mind when he announced that Japan could reach the semi-finals of the World Cup. Japan, the minnows of Asia, were considered anything but a threat by teams at the start of the World Cup. They were dismissed as being a very defensive team with absolutely no attacking skills lead by a crazily optimistic manager whose tactics were outdated. However, Japan have surprised everyone. The Blue Samurai seem to know exactly how to handle the moody Jabulani perfectly and became the first team to score a goal from a free-kick.
They have great spirit and defend like a team. Their manager will most likely not make any changes to the team and will play a 4-5-1 formation with Eiji Kawashima in goal and Yuichi Komano, Yuji Nakazawa, Marcus Tulio Tanaka and Yuto Nagatomo at the back. Keisuke Honda will play upfront on his own and will be supported by Daisuke Matsui, Yuki Abe, Makoto Hasebe, Yasuhito Endo, Yoshito Okubo. Although the headlines have been dominated by Honda’s goals, Daisuke Matsuito and Yasuhito Endo have been brilliant for Japan in the last matches. Yuki Abe is key to Japan’s formation as he shields the defence while allowing the creative players a bit of freedom.
It is interesting to note that Japan have very bad passing and of all the teams remaining, Japan have completed the least amount of passes (709) with a completion rate of only 62%. However, Japan proved with their 3-1 win over Denmark, of which 2 goals game from free kicks that they have tamed the Jabulani. This gives Japan an edge over Paraguay today.
The game will be a cagey affair with a very crowded midfield. Both these teams have already performed above expectations at the World Cup and neither will want to go home today. They both have good defenses and the game might end up going in to extra-time or penalties.
A Paraguay win will mean four South American teams in the the quarter-finals (along with Argentina, Brazil and Uruguay), while a Japan will see an Asian team beat a South American one to reach the quarter finals.
Manager Speak
“If we don’t go through nobody will remember us but if we turn in our best ever showing then they will talk about us for a while.” – Gerardo Martino, Paraguay manager
“I think we’ve to play with extra pride as we are now the only Asian representatives. My desire to beat Paraguay is even more resolute.” -Takeshi Okada, Japan manager
Players to Watch Out For
Paraguay: Enrique Vera, Nelson Valdez, Lucas Barrios
Japan: Keisuke Honda, Yasuhito Endo, Daisuke Matsui
Go Figure!
Paraguay have lost all three of their second-round matches in World Cup history, failing to score on each occasion
Japan have lost both of their World Cup matches against South American sides, losing 4-1 to Brazil in 2006 and 1-0 to Argentina in 1998
Paraguay are unbeaten in four World Cup matches. Only once have they gone five matches unbeaten, with that run straddling the 1958 and 1986 World Cups
Japan have won on the six occasions that Keisuke Honda has scored and on the 11 occasions that Shinji Okazaki has found the net for them
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June 28, 2010 at 7:15 PM · Filed under Football, World Cup ·Tagged Adam Johnson, Emile Heskey, England, Fabio Capello, FIFA, Football, Frank Lampard, Gareth Barry, Germany, Jemaine Defoe, John Terry, Matthew Upson, Michael Dawson, Peter Crouch, Referee, Scott Parker, Sepp Blatter, Soccer, South Africa, Steven Gerrard, technology, Tom Huddlestone, WAGs, wayne rooney, World Cup 2010
Fabio Capello is absolutely right when he says England “played well” in the 4-1 thrashing by Germany. Capello is right because if England had not played well they would have been kicked out of the 2010 World Cup by a much bigger margin; say 20-1 – After all, England were minnows of football world till the fabulous Fabio Capello so kindly took over the reins and turned us into a superpower. He braved the ever so unpredictable weather of England for a paltry annual fee of £6 million sacrificing the comforts of living in his favourite Italy. The lousy English weather must have put him a little bit under the weather, affected his judgment a little bit and clouded his thinking, you might think, after you saw the England-Germany encounter. If you question his team selection and rubbish his game plan; it just shows your ignorance of Fabio’s fantastic plan for the future of English football in general and 2014 World Cup in Brazil in particular. What a match it was! What fabulous foresight and what great execution of the first part of the bigger plan. Thank you Fabio Capello, for saving the honour of the English. Without your guidance we could not have “played well’ and would have been completely humiliated. Thank you God for giving us the one and only Fabio.
England defence was not just disorganised, you might think, “it was non-existent,” you might comment. So it seemed to the untrained eye of the ordinary fan or pundit. Thanks to the fabulous foresight of the fantastic Fabio Capello and his mind blowing strategy, the England defence was so cleverly camouflaged that everyone failed to notice it. Capello cleverly used it instead, to score the all important goal for England. If he had not planned Upson to be strongly entrenched in the German 16 yard box, who would have scored the only goal for England? England can now go back with their head held in the knowledge that even their defence is capable of scoring goals. You can imagine if our defence can do that what wonders can our strikers perform when the fabulous Fabio Capello decides to take them along to the World Cup in Brazil or remembers to get them off the bench and on to the field. Do you understand the strategy now? It is as clear as day why Peter Crouch was never got to play in this World Cup which can only be considered to be a warm up for 2014. The Fabulous one did not want to risk injury to his tallest player ahead of the Brazil World Cup. What phenomenal foresight.
The fabulous gains
The Fabulous Fabio knows how to build National teams. You just have to read his CV to realize that. He knows it is not easy. He knows it takes time; it takes money. Before you win the World Cup you need to instill self esteem, self control, and spirit of self sacrifice into the team. He knows he has achieved all that or else why would he say “England played well”. The fabulous Fabio is no fool. The lessons the team has learnt are that, not only can the England team score a goal but even their defence can do it. This was important for the self esteem of the team. So what if they left their goal undefended? The important thing is the knowledge that their defence can score. Now it is not beyond comprehension that the next piece of Fabio’s strategy is to train his strikers to defend our goal. But that is a top secret. Can you imagine how baffled the opposition will be when they are chasing our strikers and our defense sneak out and score goals? Their confusion will be confounded when our strikers pounce on their strikers and defend our goal. But that will be jumping the gun. That is to be in the next World cup. To keep things simple Capello likes to teach one thing at a time.
One major gain of the team is that they learnt the importance of self control. The players now know how to live without their Wives and Girlfriends. The considerate Capello, master mind that he is, planned all along to keep the first stint, of learning to live without WAGs, short and sweet. It has been proven to the world now that the England players can not only survive without WAGS during the tournaments but they also “play well” in their absence. Frank Lampard nearly spoiled the plan by scoring the equalizer but such was the belief of the fantastic Fabio in the plan that Gods decided to intervene and blinded the referees. You will have to wait and see; this experience will come handy in Brazil.
The biggest lesson the England team learnt was in the area of self sacrifice and delayed gratification. Fabio has taught the fans and players alike the importance of postponing gratification. What is the point in winning the World Cup if we can’t even appreciate the value of winning that comes only to those who can delay getting what they desire? Fabio the famous one knows very well that most England fans and even pundits cannot appreciate the deep philosophical aspect of delaying the World Cup win till 2014. Frank Lampard is all groggy eyed as he has spent sleepless nights in his effort to comprehend the significance of Fabio’s fabulous philosophy. John Terry has lost his head trying to make head or tail of it. He was seen, in the match, running all over the pitch like a chicken who has just been beheaded. The likes of Wayne Rooney, Joe Cole, Peter Crouch, Ashley Cole and James are wondering what happened. Theo Walcott, Darren Bent, Adam Johnson, Leighton Bains and Scott Parker are at a loss to know if they are missing something. But he, in his graciousness, the fabulous Fabio Capello is willing to be patient and wait till they all understand and appreciate. That’s why he has said he will not stand down and will continue to be England Coach. There is one silver lining though. Steven Gerrard is in tune with the master and knows what the fabulous one is doing. That’s why he wants Fabio Capello to stay, “I’m sure Fabio will stay and he’ll address his own situation very soon,” Gerrard told The Sun. Thank God for small mercies.
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