What’s Up With Theo?
Yeah, I wish I knew what was wrong too
I have to admit to having a fascination with Theo Walcott. Why? Well, it’s clearly evident that Theo has something. What that is and whether or not it will be fully realized is another thing.
Theo has both his detractors and supporters. I think I come in somewhere between the two. When he plays like he did against Barca and the goal he scored in the first leg of the Champion’s League or his hat-trick against Croatia, he is absolutelydeserving of the praise.
On the other hand when he continues to not show football knowledge on the pitch and and keeps shooting his dribblers wide of the net – especially when he has the run of the pitch and can burn the defenders it is frustratingly annoying.
In fairness to the lad he has been laden with injuries. His 2009/2010 campaign was more a fit of stops and starts and he got no chance at consistent play. That hurt his club form and it eventually caught up to him and stopped him from featuring on the national side for the World Cup. (Frankly watching the performance of the England team – he is probably happier for it.)
In an interview with Arsenal TV Online Theo had this to say about his injuries:
“Last season was a disappointment, personally, with the amount of injuries I have had,” Walcott said.
“I will just be trying to concentrate on having a better season than last year, because it was a disappointment not to play as much as I wanted to,” he added later.
Personally, I think one of the biggest reasons Theo has so many detractors is he is a vicitim of the hype machine that built him up. The worst thing that could happen to Theo is that he was selected for the 2006 Cup team by Sven Goran Ericsson. That was a huge mistake. Sure, prior to signing with Arsenal, Theo was tearing up the ppitch when he played for Southampton.
In 2005, Theo made his full first team debut against Leeds United scoring in the same game. 4 days later against Millwall he scored yet again. Then on his home debut against Stoke City, he would score again. He did so well that first season for Southampton he was named as one of three finalist for BBC Young Sports Personality of the Year for 2005.
Theo was such a highly touted prospect that no less than Arsenal, Manchester United, Chelse and Spurs wanted to sign him. Besides Wenger there are two other great managers who touted Theo’s talents – Sir Alex and Jose. Wenger was no fool in bringing the lad in. But when it came to it, Southampton took the deal from Arsenal.
The signing and his past success are probably what drove Sven to pick Theo over the likes of Darren Bent. And even though Theo did play in some pre-tournament friendlies he did not play in the tournament. Sven says he kept on the bench so the experience would benefit him in future tournaments. Personally I think Sven thought as talented as the boy is he wasn’t ready for this.
Still the table was set – from 2006 on, high expectations were set for Theo. But 4 years on has he siffered because of the expectations – unfair or not. Theo is at the age where he should be realising his talent. Coming into his own. But because of the expectations, I wonder if Arsene, his coacing staff and the player have done him a disservice. Arsene and his coacing staff may have played the boy too soon in some games. The player, may have tried to do too much to live up to his expecations. Who knows. either way, Theo has failed to impress – consistently.
We head into the 2010/2011 season with a lot of questions still unanswered about our team this year. Will Cesc be here or not is the biggest. Who will our keeper be? How better will our denfence be? Theo is definitely a question mark as well. Will he stay healthy enough to develop some consistent form? Will he understand how to use his speed and score rather than just using his speed. There are many more.
Without the hassle of the World Cup or event he U21 tournaments Theo has had a quiet off-season. He should be well rested for the season and hopefully can come through the pre-season without any scratches. I really want Theo to do well. It benefits so many – none more than Arsenal and Theo himself.
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Comments
BRAZIL is OUT of the WORLD CUP!
Theo.
well, I have to say I think he has the talent.
I simply wish he could go most of a season, without
being injured.
If he could get a half season run of matches, while
being healthy, we would know whether he can be the player
many think he can.
Is he the next Thierry Henry?
No. But nobody is. The hype machine, as noted by DAG, has worked
overdrive for years on this lad.
Let’s hope we find out about Theo this year… and then we can
move on with… or without him.
and Yaya Toure signs a 5 year deal with City…
I agree that Theo is a vicitim of the hype, bad injuries and poor decisions on the pitch. Like Stag I am hoping the lad can go at least 75% or 80% of the season with consistent play.
And . . .
COME ON HOLLAND!!!!!
What a game!
Brazil were dominating after scoring a nice goal.
But in the second half, they self destruct. Melo scores an own goal and then gets sent off stupidly and suddenly the Dutch are leading.
How Michel Bastos did not get a red card is beyond me.
In the first half, I was thinking
Gilberto – what Arsene had
Melo – what Arsene wanted
Deni – what Arsene is stuck with 
After today’s display and the way Melo got substituted before he got sent off against Portugal makes you feel that maybe he was just the right person for Arsenal. Cause since Vieira left, we are missing those red cards. 
And on the last post, I agree with Arthur that Mertersacker is too slow. And yes, Fred, I have been watching Bundesliga this year.
We will know for sure tomorrow when he will be up against Tevez, Messi and co.
Fred Reply:
July 2nd, 2010 at 2:58 pm
Re: Mertesacker: He seemed just fine against the speed and power of Rooney no? And in all those games in WC 2006 and Euro 2008 – where he met several speedy strikers.
Its just like the whole Sol Campbell is slow thing … just because someone is huge doesnt mean he is a tanker!
We’ll see how he does against Messi.
nipuna Reply:
July 3rd, 2010 at 1:34 am
Fred, what did Rooney do in that game? Nothing.
I am not saying he is a bad defender. Just that he is slow and therefore he is not fit for Arsenal. Cause we play a high line.
Of course, in the past, we have had the likes of Cygan, Sendy, etc.
Fred Reply:
July 3rd, 2010 at 9:35 am
And am saying he is NOT slow, look again. Germany and Bremen play a high line and has been a solid starter for over four years now for both.
There is a match coming up today against speedy forwards like Messi, Tevez.
Netherlands keep their nerve after going down in the 10th minute. Sneijder puts on a clinic in the 2nd half, Dutch score two goals, and Melo gets a straight red. Unless they have a major f*ck-up, the Dutch have a straight road to the final.
As for Theo, I think Capello was wishing he had taken him to SA during England’s first two games. Against both the US and Algeria, England were in need of someone late in the game to unlock the defense by blowing the game open. Theo is the kind of player that can do that as a super-sub. He can change a tense stale-mate into a check-mate. We’ll see if he is ever able to do more than that.
Another reason why Melo would have fit right in at Arsenal.
He heads into his own goal.
stag133 Reply:
July 2nd, 2010 at 3:00 pm
what would Diaby do if Melo is heading into his own goal?
we already have one of them.
he’s INCREDIBLE!
but I can easily see why Wenger likes(d) Robinho. He is such a Wenger-type player.
Oranje!!!!
Glad to see Brazil sent home. Their arrogance, boring play and the way the media drools over them is sickening.
———
We NEED to sign Melo ASAP… we need to get off the top of the fair play table
———
Now that Barca have an additional 30 mill from Yaya, maybe they can now add that to the 30 M they initially bid for a cool 60 M! That would at least beat Kaka’s transfer fee.
What drama!
If Suarez does not handle the ball, Ghana make history.
Instead, he is sent off, but Gyan misses the penalty and Ghana are out!
stag133 Reply:
July 2nd, 2010 at 6:30 pm
wow.
is the Suarez handball “cheating”? or just a smart play?
if he doesn’t swat it with his hand, they are out of the WC, at least he gave the keeper a chance and the Gyan a chance to miss, which he did.
wild game.
nipuna Reply:
July 3rd, 2010 at 1:30 am
I would ban Suarez for at least 5 games.
stag133 Reply:
July 3rd, 2010 at 2:21 pm
you can ban him forever! but it still doesn’t help Ghana in this World Cup!
nipuna Reply:
July 3rd, 2010 at 3:24 pm
True, that is why I said it is sad and unfortunate but unavoidable.
Crazy game!!
TO answer the question, is it cheating or just a smart play? The answer is both. It’s unfortunate, but that’s how it is in sports: sometimes it’s smart to cheat. I’d have loved to see Ghana in the semis, but now Suarez looks like a genius. People can tell him, “but now you’ll miss the next game,” to which he’ll reply, “at least we have a next game.” No matter what rules you make, there will always be situations where it is advantageous for players to break those rules.
nipuna Reply:
July 3rd, 2010 at 1:44 am
The commentator made a good joke.
Suarez is Uruguay’s top scorer AND top saver.
Really sad and unfortunate but unavoidable.
Howard Webb in contention to referee the final.
Oh my, isn’t there anyone else?
Betting on Germany getting to the semis is like printing money really. Shocked how every body assumed Argentina was the favorite and are now shocked they are out.
Like Argentina would magically get some mental strength or that their crack-head manager would suddenly become a tactical genius … lol.
—————————
PS: Mertesacker was on a couple of occasions with Tevez and once with Messi toe-to-toe on a short foot race and held his own excellently. He was not “slow” in WC 2006, Euro 2008 and sure as f&ck isnt “slow” now. And thats despite the defensive high lines for Bremen and Germany.
He won every header and tackle I saw him make and talked/directed Khedira, Friedrich, Schweinstiger often and vocally (like he always does) … thats what someone like Vermaelen and Song would need.
He is an excellent, 25 yr old defender and a veteran for his age … and its defenders like him (and there are quite a few) we should be looking at spending 10 million on rather than on middle-aged, inexperienced newbies who would poop their pants and cry for their mommy long before the likes of Tevez, Rooney and Drogba get the chance to rape them … and extinguish Arsenal’s unlikely title hopes for the umpteenth time.
Its all well and good f&cking around up front but when will we stop f&cking around at DM, CB and GK?
arthur3sheds Reply:
July 3rd, 2010 at 5:44 pm
He’s slow Fred! Arsene knows best too 
Fred Reply:
July 3rd, 2010 at 5:50 pm
Slow enough to take on Messi and Tevez, got it. Thats the kind of “snail speed” we need for our defense.
arthur3sheds Reply:
July 3rd, 2010 at 5:51 pm
SLOOOOW Fred 
Germany sure looked good today.
but its very easy to play with a lead, and the 1-0 3 minutes
in changes the game for sure.
Germany play as a unit… solid defensively… and with a
good system…
still think Spain will beat them… I said Spain would win
the WC at the start, ain’t changing that now.
Cheating or smart play… Plain old cheating I say. The worst kind of cheating possible in a football game, along with putting the ball in the net intentionally with your hand.
I have never seen the “professional” foul as acceptable part of the game as some of the pundits do and I would never label it as something positive like “smart”. I would not even label it sly or crafty which somewhat belittles the offense, I think cheating is the perfect word.
Unfortunately it is true nothing will help Ghana this world cup, but hey the have exceeded all expectations. They dominated most of the game against Urgay and the USA as underdogs. They have represented Africa well and outlasted all the Asian and North American opposition and only been topped by the traditional football powerhouses of Europe and South America. That is an acheivement the Ghanaians should be proud of.
No doubt some will be secretly happy that Ghana are out, but Ghana can hold there heads up high and know that they were not outclassed by any opponents they faced in this world cup not even the seemingly great German team were able to dominate them. Even with their player of the tournament missing in the Urgay game they had to be cheated out of their semi final place.
Ghana successfully destroyed the myth that African teams are undisciplined, unorganised by their very nature and played some nice football at times.
I think Fifa should change the rules for intentional handballs on the line. Since the GK is not behind the ball when the ball was handled neither should he be behind the ball at the resulting penalty kick. In other words the GK should stand outside the box with the rest of the players and th PK taker be allowed to kick into an empty net. This way people like Saurez cannot rewarded for, and celebrate cheating but rather true justice be acheived.
Mazza Reply:
July 3rd, 2010 at 7:32 pm
The Ghana player SIMULATED to get the free kick.
Suarez was punished for his offence. Blame “couldn’t hit a cows arse with a banjo” Gyan for not converting the penalty.
arthur3sheds Reply:
July 3rd, 2010 at 9:15 pm
I bet he is more likely to be able to hit a cows arse with a banjo than that good for nothing, ice cream munching, Barcelona bench warming, loser Hleb
Fred Reply:
July 3rd, 2010 at 7:47 pm
Ghana didnt play “nice” football at any time during the world cup.
They displayed average discipline and organization … their main M.O. was defending in large numbers and shooting from ridiculous distances and hoping on a large dollop of LUCK.
Sure they were unlucky with the whole Suarez issue but then again they would just be like Turkey and S. Korea in the 2002 semis – unworthy. To be fair, Uruguay are not worthy either.
All in all, African teams are even more ridiculous than they were ten years ago. At least back then they used to dribble and attack.
arthur3sheds Reply:
July 3rd, 2010 at 8:57 pm
No Mazza, simulation or not it was a foul. In reality it is Saurez to be blamed for the worse form of cheating not the penalty taker, who is under duress. If Saurez does not cheat then there is no need for a penalty kick in the first place
Who is to blamed in the “hand of god” incident Maradona for fisting the ball into the net or Shilton for not saving it?
Fred, Ghana did play nice football in the world cup even against Urgay. If Ghana has not played nice football then neither has Holland.
“Ridiculous distances” LOL! 30/35 yards is far from ridiculous when you know you have the ability. Muntari’s strike was obviously placed the ball moved in one direction. The dollop of luck came from Forlan’ free kick which changed direction contrary to a swerved shot. The GK moved in the direction of the trajectory of the ball but then the Jubalani changed direction. Do you think Forlan meant to do that? I don’t.
And Fred you talk about a dollop of luck, a team does not dominate another through luck.
You say Turkey were unworthy, you are either mad or crazy, which one? . Turkey played some good, good football and had a bunch of technically skilled players. South Korea I did not watch so intently and from all account they did have some luck along the way but without hard work they would have not had to chance to get that bit of luck. Turkey were worthy, definitely. Name me the team who was more worthy than Ghana?
USA? Urgay? Australia? Serbia? Slovenia? England? LOL! I am sure the majority of sane people would agree with me after waching the performances of the aforementioned nations, so please no more BS it stinks
Yes, how ridculous these African teams are yet the mighty US with all it’s resources have gone down to an African team two WCs in a row. So what does that make the US? Ultra ridiculous?
If you had watched the Ghana games you would see they always attacked apart from in the beginning of the first half against the US and the beginning of the game against Urgay when they were tentative. You seem to be confusing the DF formation 4-1-4-1 with their attitude. Ghana played with a customary attacking attitude which was tempered with a DF formation. Ghana created enough clear cut chances to score two goals a game or more. England scored less goals per game than Ghana with a 4-4-2 but can honestly say they were defensive?
Fred Reply:
July 3rd, 2010 at 9:26 pm
Ghana is still a very mediocre team that got really lucky.
All African teams are ridiculous.
arthur3sheds Reply:
July 3rd, 2010 at 9:36 pm
Tell where the luck was involved Fred? Give me real instances, and I will call you a liar.
A mediocre team does not get into the semi final (which they would have had they not been cheated) of the WC without being “really lucky” as you said, give me the instances of this luck, please.
Fred Reply:
July 3rd, 2010 at 10:28 pm
Ghana like South Korea, Turkey and Greece before them are fundamentally nonsense teams that got on a lucky streak.
Live with it, Arthur.
arthur3sheds Reply:
July 4th, 2010 at 9:21 am
Fred, I didn’t expect you to give any real instances anway.
Typical don’t anwer the questions just sidestep it and change the focus of the debate. You are so predictable, but I love you anyway.
Fred you do not win the Euros by luck or being a nonsense team. We may not have liked the way the Greeks played but they knew what they were doing and did it well, they deserve your respect, they have already got mine.
As for Ghana they are truly a fantastic team despite their lack of superstars and they have bright future I can live with that .
Fred Reply:
July 4th, 2010 at 1:04 pm
Greece won the Euros purely by luck. Nothing else.
They are an utterly nonsensical team.
So is Ghana. Live with it!
stag133 Reply:
July 4th, 2010 at 1:05 pm
Luck?
everyone needs a bit of luck sometimes.
and Ghana played well enough to get where they got.
No, it wasn’t down to luck as the reason they made the Qtrs.
So, Germany Spain Uruaguay and Holland… all lucky?
Fred Reply:
July 4th, 2010 at 1:27 pm
Uruguay are very lucky to get to the QFs, SFs.
Germany, Spain and Holland have the quality and deserve to play in World Cup QFs.
Spain finally make it after more drama.
Amazingly, this is their first time since 1950.
Spain are overrated. Arsenal’s soul-mates. Not the present Arsenal of course, the Arsenal of 5-9 years ago.
Germany will smash them to smithereens.
arthur3sheds Reply:
July 3rd, 2010 at 6:15 pm
I sooo hope you are wrong Fred.
I do not think Germany can smash the Spaniards though although they might win by the odd goal.
Del Bosque knows tactics Maradona doesn’t and Spain are more disciplined than England and Australia. Germany struggled against Gahan and Serbia they will struggle against Spain.
Fred Reply:
July 3rd, 2010 at 7:37 pm
ALL of Spain’s managers have been good in tactics so thats irrelevant.
Spain are not that disciplined. Their Barca boys have excellent physical technique but the team’s overrall play was RIDDLED with mistakes all over the pitch.
First round games are completely irrelevant to World Cup semis, incase you wish to forget Spain struggled immensely in the group stage too.
Brazil and Argentina would have thrashed the Spain that played today, so they are lucky its just Paraguay they were up against.
arthur3sheds Reply:
July 3rd, 2010 at 9:05 pm
Fred you are being so dramtic as usual I should remind myself that you don’t really men what you say you are just being adrama queen
No seriously, the fact that Del Bosque knows tactics is oh so relevant, Fred. What is irrevelant is you bringing previous mamangers into the conversation.
Yep Spain make mistakes but and struggled through the group, but they have far more quality than Australia, they have far more tactical know how than Argentina and I cannot see them being as Cavalier as England.
Spain may be beaten but they will not be thrashed.
Fred Reply:
July 3rd, 2010 at 11:07 pm
Spain is better than Australia?? Wow! I never knew that!
Every manager at the semis knows his tactics.
Brazil and Argentina who went out would have thrashed the Spain of today.
arthur3sheds Reply:
July 4th, 2010 at 9:32 am
Again complete irrelevant answer Fred, you are missing the point.
Point 1) I was highlighting the difference between Spain and those including Australia that the Germans thrashed.
Point 2) Del Bosque is far superior to Maradona when it comes to tactical awareness, hence they will not be thrashed.
Brazil and Argentina are irrelevant because we are talking about journey, you have no wy of verifying the hypothetical thrashing anyway, it is just highly unrealistic, or should I say dramatic, queen Fred
Fred Reply:
July 4th, 2010 at 1:06 pm
Drama queen … you were the one who went all personal, high-emotional … spraying the last couple of threads with oestrogen LOL!
Brazil and Argentina would have beaten the Spain on yesterday!
Ghana is whack!
arthur3sheds Reply:
July 6th, 2010 at 3:03 am
I get personal with you Fred because that’s how you interact here on blogosphere.
Don’t be offended when you reap what you sow
High emotional is not my thing unless you really piss me off. You will need to say a lot more than Ghana is whack to piss me off Fred I am sure you can do better than that
Spain have the technical ‘antidote’ to Germany’s energy and movement. They have patience, they will play horizontally for large spells, mix it up, diffuse Germany and frustrate Schweinsteiger and Khedira, who may have shot their bolt.
The teams Germany have played thus far are straight up and down. Predictable teams that try and get to from one end to the other as quick as possible, in the process playing into Germany’s hands and leaving them open to the counter attack.
Spain will play slower, undertake a more softly-softly approach, grind Germany down. They will strike when the time is right. Andres Iniesta began getting into his stride late on and him and Xavi will be the main protaganists.
It will be close as Spain aren’t as good as they were in the Euros, but they are due a good game and they match up well to Germany. I think they will win 3-1.
Fred Reply:
July 3rd, 2010 at 8:10 pm
Schweinsteiger and Khedira are “mop up” guys who play in front of DM and who act as the “tap” to regulate the team’s tempo … they are not exactly in a position to be “frustrated”.
You can attack them and pin them down, but I dont see where frustration comes in.
Ozil is the one that can get caged in … but guess what Germany do patience too.
I dont think Busquets is good enough to cage Ozil. Xavi and Iniesta are not that kind of guys.
Paraguay had MANY solid opportunities to counter Spain but failed … Germany should do much better than that.
The only saving grace for Spain is that Mueller will be suspended. But Kiessling or Gomez should still be able to do a job.
Spain’s cause wont be helped if their coach continues to idiotically play an out of form Torres up front. You cant win a semi-final with ten men.
Too similar to forcing Lampard and Gerrard together.
I think Germany wins 2-1 or 3-1.
Mazza Reply:
July 3rd, 2010 at 8:30 pm
By frustrated I mean they will start giving away free kicks and losing discipline when Iniesta and Xavi start playing around them. Khedira and Schweinsteiger have been stars thus far but I’m still not convinced Bastian is a genuine central midfielder. I think he will get out-manouevered in there.
I could be wrong, but I think Spain even on a bad day have ingrained strengths that the Germans don’t like.
Spain will be out to prove a point as well. Bit like Barca before our game at the Emirates.
stag133 Reply:
July 3rd, 2010 at 9:03 pm
Spain hasn’t played really well YET.
They can have one very good game, take out Germany, and they are in the Finals.
I like their chances against Germany.
Germany need the early goal again, so it forces Spain to play in a less patient manner, like Argentina had to.
Should be fun to watch, as should Netherlands v Uruaguay…
arthur3sheds Reply:
July 3rd, 2010 at 9:12 pm
That’s Kaiser Schweinsteiger to you Mazza
What do you mean you are not convinced he is a genuine CM? if this WC has not convinced you he is a kingpin in CM then what will.
And if the ignorant want to demote him to being a mere “mop up” guy then just cover you ears and ignore them
Fred Reply:
July 3rd, 2010 at 9:53 pm
Calling some one a “mop up” guy and a “tap” is not an insult.
Infact that “regulatory” position is by far the most vital in every team. In the very best traditions of Beckenbauer, Lothar Mathaus, Frank Rijkaard and recently Pirlo. Khedira and the Schwein are doing an excellent job.
Mopper/cleaner was the nickname for Rijkaard by the Ajax Joden.
Hahn or Tap was the nick for Lothar.
Their deep-lying starting point means they can not be “frustrated” out of the game as Mazza mentioned.
Germany wont fall for any trap because they can simply fall back and lie in wait too.
arthur3sheds Reply:
July 4th, 2010 at 9:34 am
OK, I hear you
Fred Reply:
July 3rd, 2010 at 10:13 pm
@ Mazza: I still dont see what ingrained strengths Spain has that are that fantastic.
Bastian and Khedira have been playing CM/DM for a while now, so they are quite good at what they do.
Germany has potential weaknesses in their full-backs (Lahm and Boateng), but Spain’s wing play is labored … they are using Alonso and Iniesta out wide…. they would be gobbled up ALL day.
If they dropped Torres and flank a central Villa with two fast wingers and have Iniesta-Xavi-Busquets in CM then I would be able to see where you are coming from.
Eventually Iniest-Xavi will think of “something”.
Even then, you are as strong as your weak link and Busquets is someone that can be targeted.
PS: I dont see why you mention Arsenal-Barcelona. Arsenal had no keeper, no CBs, no midfielders, Walcott on the wing, Bendtner on top and a tactical oaf as manager. So I dont see the point of bringing that match up.
stag133 Reply:
July 4th, 2010 at 1:08 pm
and somehow, with no keeper, no CB’s no midfielders, no strikers, and a tactical oaf as manager… on a shoe string budget… they get a top 4 spot every year.
Miracles never cease.
Fred Reply:
July 4th, 2010 at 1:24 pm
The top four was courtesy of the Fabregas. He didnt play the second leg of the Barca game.
Barca on their Cesc talk… AGAIN.
We have to recognise that it’s under negotiation, and we will continue negotiating, but we aren’t going to go crazy,” Rosell said. “We won’t pay anything other than the right price. If Arsenal want to talk to us we will talk, but we’ll never pay a price that we believe is unfair.”
Don’t you just hate comment like this? F*ck it. They talked like as if we are the one who’s desperate to sell Cesc to them. Don’t wanna pay a price that they believe is unfair? Fair enough. Then just p+ss off and leave us alone.
nipuna Reply:
July 4th, 2010 at 2:48 am
“If Arsenal want to talk to us we will talk.”
LOL
stag133 Reply:
July 4th, 2010 at 1:09 pm
I would tell them to screw, but the PLAYER wants to be at Barcelona.
I don’t want a player in my team, that doesn’t want to be there.
If he wants to go, sell him.
I like Spain’s chances against Germany. I think it will be a very tight game.
Germany’s rampaging wins have been based on score early and let the opposition go mad and try to strike back immediately. Then just sit and pick on the counter attack. I don’t think Spain are that naive to let Germany do the same again.
At the same time. Torres has become a liability. He must be dropped for someone like Cesc. Spain can then pass the ball around and let Germany take the onus, which I am not sure they are capable of. I think it will be nice game and I am looking forward to watching it with my German friends.
Fred Reply:
July 4th, 2010 at 1:16 pm
Paraguay did have 3 to 4 very decent chances to take the lead against Spain, so has every other team they have faced so far.
I think they are rather unbalanced … why? They dont have a “real” DM in there … and their defense is a bit shaky.
I feel they are a team that Germany can even afford to go behind to … as long as they have at least 30 minutes to come back they should be fine.
But then again, we’ll have to see on Wednesday.
The bookies are already giving Germany odds as long as 4:1 !!!!!
If you are brave man you could bet your house on it!
Wait for the octopus first though.
Germany stomping Argentina is no surprise. When we gave world cup predictions, I mentioned that as soon as Maradona had to deal with a tough tactical predicament, he’d be exposed in a bad way. Maradona isn’t used to relying on sound tactics to win; rather on technical brilliance. Players like he, Pele, Zidane, Figo, Kaka, Cristiano, etc. will never make good managers. They only know one way to win tough games and it’s not with tactics. Whats made Maradona’s predicament even worse is he’s left out the likes of Cambiasso and Zanetti, who do know how to win these types of games. Then he’s forced to play against a very efficient German side. No surprise at all.
As for Germany/Spain, the only way I see a thrashing is if Spain do something stupid. No one is going to thrash Germany. Torres probably needs to be dropped. We all know he’s a dynamite talent but injuries have cost him top form. Llorente seems an obvious pick to replace el nino but Mertesacker dominates that match-up.
The only chance Spain has of beating Germany is if they score first. If they fall behind at any point, they’re simply not going to break down the Germans and will be exposed to the counter. The Germans are a better tactical team than Spain is a technical team. Are Spain’s technical players better than Argentina’s? Both teams attack in numbers but the Germans also defend in numbers. Will Spain have the same discipline?
I’ve read where other teams would have destroyed Spain last night. I think this overlooks how hard both Paraguay and Uruguay are to break down defensively. Paraguay worked their socks off and had they converted that penalty, I think Spain might have lost last night 2-0. Paraguay worked hard to put Spain off their game.
To all those who think RvP is not injury prone, did you read about his injury scare last night?
RvP had to go for a scan after he sustained an injury colliding with ……. himself. Yes, he was imbalanced, fell down and bam, we have an injury scare. 
arthur3sheds Reply:
July 4th, 2010 at 9:36 am
LOL! but that ain’t even funny
As for the actual thread, I think Theo will be just fine. He’s had some problems with injuries but he’s still so young and developing. The injuires has slowed his development and has led to inconsistencies. Constant injuries is the worst thing that can happen to a young athlete in any sport. If these injures are behind him and he can get in a descent pre-season, this will be his breakout year.
I think Capello regrets not taking Theo to the World Cup. I’m sure he regrets not taking quite a few players. Once you know who your first eleven are, then you have to have players who can give you a different option when the primary tactic doesn’t work. Theo does lack consistency but he poses a threat that all defenses have to respect. His introduction may take a double-team off of Wayne Rooney or cause a fullback to not attack so much. Even if he’s not consistent with certain parts of his game, it doesn’t mean he can’t give you something once or twice. If that leads to one or 2 goals, then he’s certainly worth the spot on the plane.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/magazine/8783206.stm
Bursting Capello’s myth that England played more games this season and therefore were more tired.
Cesc v VanPersie in the WC Finals.
They both play well…
Real Madrid offer 30 million for RVP
Barca stump up 40 million for Cesc
we sell both, make 70 Million GBP.
every body goes home happy.
The German press are finally catching up to the point that I was making before the WC – Ballack getting injured was a blessing in disguise. The team is now freed up and playing at a higher tempo.
—————–
Apparently Toure is going to be paid 220k pounds per week. Man City logic is really incredible … where was the competition for him? None of the other big teams was going in for him, so why capitulate and quadruple his salary? If he didnt go to City where else would he have gone to? No other major team was in for him. Baffling really.
City were the same guys who managed to pay 18M for De Jong 5 months before he was available on a free.
City now have five DMs in Barry, De Jong, Vieira, Kompany. One will have to leave soon.
Am beginning to think Arsenal were RIPPED OFF when they sold Adebayor for only 25 M. We could have got 40 M!!!
I wish City can enter the bidding for Fabregas …. maybe they will go up to 100 M for him
So not 24 hours after being formally introduced by Man City – Yaya Toure has said he would like to go back to Barca. If that doesn’t say all you need to know about today’s players then nothing will. If it also doesn’t give you an insight as to what the players view Man City as (nothing more than a place to get paid and get paid well) – then nothing will.
Also read with glee Lionel Messi stating he couldn’t understand why England left Theo Walcott behind. Said he felt that when Barca played Arsenal he changed the entire dynamic of the game. Said that Pep made that point to the Barca players before both legs of the CL games against Arsenal.
HighburyterraceSteve Reply:
July 5th, 2010 at 11:52 am
Both of those pieces of news are interesting…And Fred may be right: maybe we should’ve held out for more money for the players we sold to Man City! (Interesting, that David Silva has also cashed in with ManCity and now picks splinters from his behind on the Spanish bench.)
This World Cup stuff needs to wrap up….RVP and Cesc, who look at least somewhat set to feature in the semis and/or final, both need to pass fitness tests, proving that they are Arsenal through and through….
And Theo, by avoiding selection and now being lauded by Messi, comes out as maybe the only English player with a burnished reputation! (And, maybe, has also avoided injury) Crazy stuff. And Nasri may have similarly profited by being left off the French squad.
In some ways, reputation DOES matter, in that if the opposing team is scared of a player, it presents problems and opens the pitch up for his teammates. Theo’s pace, Bendtner’s size and Arshavin’s ability to get free and finish smartly occupy the minds of defenders and create openings for others. (Whether or not the likes of Chamakh, Vela, RVP, Diaby and Nasri can put them away is another question entirely.) A few blown chances or evidence that a player is playing hurt can undermine just as easily. The prime example in the current Tournament is Fernando Torres. With his “Howdy Doody” haircut, and his on-pitch appearance as a “perma-crock,” Spain does appear to be playing with 10. (Credit to Fred again) Certainly they look a lot better with Cesc on in his stead….
And speaking of our (for now) Captain…I still see him coming off the bench, for Spain and for Barca and there seems little way (at the moment) that the latter will pay more for him than for (potential golden boot) Villa. His realistic statement (“I may stay at Arsenal”), for me however, provides poor comfort. Arsenal need stability, leadership and toughness, and Cesc’s desire to provide all of those qualities seems very, very questionable. Unfortunately, whether he stays or goes, I’m not sure where else (in the current squad) we are supposed to find them?
To hear what Messi had to say about Theo being left out of the England team has got to do wonders for the kid’s confidence. It’s not every day you get to hear such a compliment from the FIFA World POTY.
I made a similar point yesterday when I said that Theo is a player that every defense has to respect. I also meant to mention that Capello may have been swayed by the media. Ever since Capello’s been in charge and Theo’s been fully fit, Capello has selected Theo. Why would he not select Theo for the World Cup? Has Fabio been listening to those dumb-ass English pundits?
Anyway, I totally agree with Messi.
Fred Reply:
July 5th, 2010 at 1:09 pm
Yeah, Theo has the “bull in a china shop” thing going on. If you start him, your shop is vulnerable. But if you need to a result with 20 minutes to go, you release Theo and pray for the best.
Walcott against a tired full-back is still a very favorable matchup.
Yeah, I think Fabregas will need to start against Germany if they are really serious about winning the semis.
Iniesta/Xavi like to do their thing up close and personal, Fabregas might be able to unlock the door from a distance. The Germans do a lot of hardwork, so they most likely will be pressuring upfield, hoping for a mistake … the exact same way Paraguay did (where you have the keeper pssing to a defender who is forced to come close to the corner flag to hoof clear in a hurry). If Spain are playing in such a hurried fashion from the beginning they are in trouble. Fabregas is good at hurriedly releasing a striker/winger from long-range.
All in all, tasty match coming up.
Yaya Toure, the HIGHEST paid player in the Premier League!
amazing.
City don’t care about the money. Just trying to bring players
into their team… to get them to the next level. Money is not an issue.
Will be an interesting season for that club… will be a lot of
pressure to succeed. But at least they have experienced players
in the team that have done it before. That helps.
Fred Reply:
July 5th, 2010 at 11:09 pm
Done it before?
What is “it”??
What experience does Silva have of “doing it” in the English Premier league?
What experience does Yaya??
stag133 Reply:
July 6th, 2010 at 12:00 am
ummm.
Fred, they have PLAYERS in their team that have won trophies.
Kolo Toure at Arsenal.
Patrick Vieira at Arsenal. (and Inter)
Carlos Tevez at ManU.
Yaya has won at Barcelona.
With that type of experience, they are certainly not going to be intimidated or shy about the prospect of a big match, or getting into the Top 4.
In terms of experience / winners… in comparison… we have… ?????
IT = WINNING TROPHIES at THEIR CLUB(s).
Fred Reply:
July 6th, 2010 at 10:27 am
Stick to my comments. I asked about Silva and Yaya Toure.
What exactly has David Silva done that translates into helping Man City get into the top four EPL.
He didnt win any thing at Valencia.
He is very small and goes to ground ALL the time – even by Spanish standards. That might work in Spain, but that wont help you against the rough boys here in the EPL. Sorry.
Yaya Toure lost his CM spot two years ago to a 19 year old … and has been a bit part player ever since, playing mostly as a CB.
Am sorry, being a jack-of-all-trades centerback helping Barcelona in the Champions League is quite some ways from taking City into the top four.
If Vieira couldnt carry City into top four, I dont see how Toure can. There is a reason he was third choice DM at Barcelona.
No need arguing. The final answer will be evident in May of 2011.
stag133 Reply:
July 6th, 2010 at 12:26 pm
Fred, my point was that these players who have experience winning HELP the team attitude in big matches.
There is no fear.
Without it, you often get ARSENAL v Chelsea, where we get smoked every time.
You can underestimate experienced winners if you wish, but its exactly what Arsenal need. It’s partially why Sol is good for our team.
City will be in the Top 4 this year… the bigger question is whether Arsenal will be…
They don’t need Vieira to CARRY them, just provide leadership… they don’t need Yaya to carry them, just provide stability and steady play.
They can suffer injuries, and still succeed. We can not.
Fred Reply:
July 6th, 2010 at 1:05 pm
Again: What has David Silva won? Explain to me how he is an “experienced” winner.
Their “experience” winning helped them in that match at HOME against Spurs that they … LOST?
LOL!
“City will be in the top four this year”.
Yeah, sure, just like Liverpool will surely win the EPL like every dummy was saying last summer.
As I said, no need to argue, we will find out by mid-May next year.
arthur3sheds Reply:
July 7th, 2010 at 3:51 am
Silva one the Euros Fred. Yaya is quality 3rd choice or not.
DaAdminGooner Reply:
July 6th, 2010 at 1:43 pm
I have to agree with Fred, other than spend a lot of money what have City really done?
If Chelsea proved anything is that in addition to spending money – you need to have a coach with a vision. Mancini doesn’t strike me as visionary able to pull a team together.
Seriously, if they ever get a manager who can pull together a team – like Mourhino, Ancelotti, or Hiddink – maybe the results will be different – but I do think that right now – City will look very promising and fall short.
I mean for all intensive purposes going into the end of the season all they had to do was beat a very depleted Arsenal side and beat Spurs. They failed to do both.
All the talent will get you fuck all unless it is put together properly.
My dream final that I said I wanted before the WC started is looking increasingly likely!
The Dutch have a quiet confidence about them, and should be better than Uruguay, though Forlan is extremely efficient with his chances. (If you were able to successfully categorize chances into categories of: 1) sure thing, 2) could’ve done better, and 3) would have been an incredible goal, and then compare how many of each kind a striker converted, Forlan would be one of the best in the world.)
Spain have a bit more treacherous path, and I hope they can do it, but a Germany-Netherlands final would have an appeal of its own. I really just want to see a first-time winner hoist the trophy.
Players we will see in both the semifinals/finals of the World Cup and the English Premier league (if they stay with their current club):
Uruguay: Nobody
Netherlands: RVP (Arsenal), Dirk Kuyt (Liverpool), John Heitenga (Everton), Nigel De Jong (ManCity; Banned for semi, could play in the Final)
Spain: Cesc Fabregas (Arsenal), Fernando Torres (Liverpool)
Germany: Nobody
Am I missing anybody?
Looking at this (very small) list I can’t really see ANYONE who has actually played a key role in their team’s success. I’m biased towards the Arsenal players and I think RVP (1 goal/1 assist) has worked hard and helped create a lot of space and movement to benefit the likes of Robben and Sneijder and Kuyt. And Cesc has done well in his short opportunities on the pitch; playing, as always, with his head up and helping Spain look dangerous or close out games without trouble. The other Dutch players (particularly De Jong) have been solid and earned their (extensive) minutes. Torres, of course, has been a huge disappointment.
So then, if you go beyond that paltry list, who have we seen among all the others who people might be looking to see more of in England? KP Boateng (Ghana/ relegated Portsmouth)? JS Park (S. Korea/ManU)? Tim Howard (USA/Everton)? Jozy Altidore (USA/relegated Hull)? Carlos Tevez (Argentina/ManCity)? Javier Hernandez (Mexico/ManU)? Anybody playing for England? Anybody else? Certainly the big stars/names (Drogba, Rooney, Anelka, Gerrard, Lampard, etc.) have been disappointments and a lot of the lesser names I was hoping would shine (Vela and Dos Santos for Mexico, Alex Song for Cameroon, Bendtner for Denmark) did very, very little. Maybe others had a few personal favorites I’m missing.
My point is: the World Cup as a big promotion for the English Premier League is not materializing. Where are the stars who have lit up the tournament who people might follow back to their clubs in England? Of course a few big matches have yet to be played and maybe a hero (or two) will emerge. And I’ve seen that Howard Webb still has a shot at refereeing the final. Perhaps he’ll be the memorable figure people will watch in England when South Africa is done and dusted….
stag133 Reply:
July 6th, 2010 at 12:22 pm
actually, the WC is a big SHOPPING CART for the EPL’s big teams!
Isn’t this lovely? Bendy already crocked and could miss the start of the new season.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/teams/a/arsenal/8792026.stm
“My whole body must be scanned to find out where the groin problem really comes from. I still feel pain and it is very frustrating.”
Don’t know whether to laugh or cry.
New Barca president Sandro Rosell has admitted that they can not meet the £40-£50 million valuation Arsenal has placed on Cesc.
According to Rosell in a radio interview he noted that the club hav eto take a £125 million loan to cover short-term liquidity problems.
He also went on to say he was disturbed at how Joan Laporta’s regime had upsrt Arsenal in the handling of this desired deal.
Rosell, is very close to the Fabregas family. He is a former Nike executive and was recently pictured with Cesc’s mum and dad.
Rosell is planning on going to South Africa and he hopes to meet with both Wenger and Fabregas. However, I don’t think Wenger or the club is going to move off of its valuation. Also unless Wenger and the club give their permission for Rosell to talk to Cesc, he can’t as it would be akin to tapping up.
In the end – I said it out the outset – Barca simply look like they do not have the money to purchase Fabregas from Arsenal. They had to sell Dmytro Chygrynskiy back to Shakhtar Donetsk for £12.5m to ease the situation – taking a £10m hit on the player just 12 months after his arrival. The money for Yaya Toure is also likely to be applied to some of this short-term problems the club are facing.
stag133 Reply:
July 6th, 2010 at 12:19 pm
So, we want to keep Cesc at the club, even if he doesn’t want to be at Arsenal?
Force him to stay, that way he’ll really be happy and committed.
He doesn’t want to be with Arsenal, F*CK OFF mate. Get to feck.
He wants to be here… cool, say so… not… I “might not leave”.
If he wants to go sit on the bench, send him packing fast, and move on.
ChicagoGooner Reply:
July 6th, 2010 at 1:39 pm
Cesc’s a competitor and even if he’d rather be at Barcelona, he’s not going to waste an entire season not trying just b/c he didn’t get to move there.
Besides, he is probably smart enough to realize that if he stops putting forth genuine effort for Arsenal this year (assuming he doesn’t get the transfer this summer), then Barcelona will lose interest on not want him at all. The reason they’re interested to begin with is b/c of his awesome performances for Arsenal. Yeah, sure, he used to be there, but had he tanked for Arsenal they wouldn’t want him back.
The club he plays for is very important, but it’s only half the story. As a professional athlete, I’m sure he has lots of personal ambitions as well, and those will most likely keep him focused and determined to play well, no matter for who.
stag133 Reply:
July 6th, 2010 at 3:44 pm
look, for me, its simple.
I don’t want players in the team that don’t want to play for Arsenal.
I don’t care who they are, or how good they are/think they are.
He’s been wonderful for us. He’s a very good young player.
But if he wants to go elsewhere, just feck off and go…
You need 100% COMMITTED to the CAUSE players, … not half hearted, wish I were home playing in Spain wannabes.
I hope he stays ONLY if he WANTS TO BE HERE.
Not because we couldn’t get the right price.
Screw that.
nipuna Reply:
July 6th, 2010 at 5:31 pm
Less than 100% Cesc is still better than 100% of most other players in this Arsenal team.
stag133 Reply:
July 6th, 2010 at 6:19 pm
yeah.
now he’s bigger than the team, we have to have him… make him stay even if he doesn’t want to play here…
we can’t go on without him.
screw that.
And now Cesc is injured and may miss the semis.
ChicagoGooner Reply:
July 6th, 2010 at 12:11 pm
According to this he’s been declared fit for tomorrow’s match:
http://worldcup.football365.com/story/0,27111,18484_6245541,00.html
stag133 Reply:
July 6th, 2010 at 12:16 pm
I’ve read he is both RULED OUT, and NOT RULED OUT!
Haven’t read he’s “fit” anywhere.
But I did read Bendtner is crocked, and not sure when he’ll be healthy either. Never fully recovered from last season’s injuries. (just saw Nip mention it above!)
Great stuff.
DaAdminGooner Reply:
July 6th, 2010 at 1:28 pm
Fabregas experienced a knock on his leg during today’s training session and he is now a 50/50 for the semi-final against Germany.
For some strange reason, everytime I look at a picture of Theo now, I see a similarity to that of the character Santiago Muñez (played by Kuno Becker) from the Goal movies, minus the goals, ofcourse The second film in the series does show in a brief moment that when the Madrid heirarchy want someone, they move in quickly. Pure fiction. When Madrid and Barca want someone, they spend months and years in long drawn out transfer sagas played out via the media and their choosen PR mouths, be it a player, an agent, or a player’s cousin’s neighbour’s ex-girlfriend’s friend’s barber.
Oh, oh, Paul the Octopus has predicted a Spain victory!
DaAdminGooner Reply:
July 6th, 2010 at 2:39 pm
Which is funny because Paul is in Germany – where if he is right – he could quickly become Calimari
seattle gooner Reply:
July 6th, 2010 at 3:53 pm
Paul is also English-born. Wonder which national team he is eligible for.
DaAdminGooner Reply:
July 6th, 2010 at 4:40 pm
He chose Germany
seattle gooner Reply:
July 6th, 2010 at 7:13 pm
I’d like to see a passport.
Two keeper errors makes the first semis finely poised at HT.
The Dutch are through.
Woo Hoo !!
Glad to see the Dutch make it through. All credit to Uruguay in that match, though. They went down swinging.
The one thing I didn’t get was why the subbed out Forlan. What’s the rationale there? If there was one, I couldn’t see it.
CaribKid Reply:
July 6th, 2010 at 6:43 pm
Instead of his normal deep role he was playing central in the absence of Sousa.
He was just plain tired after doping all that chasing to which he is unaccustomed.
ALL 3 TEAMS LEFT… European.
Euro domination in the World Cup.
Good Luck to RVP, stay healthy.
Hope you meet Cesc in the Finals.
Now for something completely different -
Been to Arsenal USA lately?
Go to the online store and you might be surprised what they are selling – CHELSEA GEAR.
Who the fuck is running that place?
seattle gooner Reply:
July 6th, 2010 at 8:10 pm
I didn’t see any Chelsea gear on there – maybe I wasn’t looking in the right place – but I saw that you can get a Silvestre alternate white jersey for the cut-rate price of $102.00.
ChicagoGooner Reply:
July 6th, 2010 at 8:18 pm
Hold up, are you talking about Arsenal America or the USA version of Arsenal.com? I didn’t see any Chelsea gear at usa.arsenal.com, but I couldn’t find the shop at Arsenal America.
stag133 Reply:
July 6th, 2010 at 10:52 pm
they don’t sell anything at Arsenal America.
(other than $25 fee to be a member, so you can ask for the chance to buy tickets to home matches if you travel to London).
Go Holland. We’ll see if they can pull off the result on Sunday. If so, Sneijder will win FIFA World POTY. The funny thing about that story, were it to unfold that way is that less than one year ago, Sneijder was treated so badly by Real Madrid and then sold against the wishes of both the player and the coach. I hate Real Madrid. What a pompus bunch of assclowns. It’s simple; you leave the politics to the politicians and the soccer to the coaches. I wonder how long Mourinho will stay at that circus once he truly realizes how much they get involved in coaching affairs.
Yeah, less than a year ago, Robben and Schneider were being hounded out of Madrid even though both were begging to stay. Now both have played in CL finals and World cup finals …. and both have won league and cups. I couldnt be happier for them.
I hope RVP gets a WC medal.
I couldn’t care less about Robben, Schneider, or anyone else in the Dutch team.
(unless Arsenal sign one of them)
They’ve played well, but haven’t been anything special really.
Japan, Cameroon and Denmark. EASY group.
Beat Slovakia.
Yes. Great 2nd half against Brazil. The first half, they were being
outplayed completely.
And lucky to be playing Uruguay today… the easiest of the teams left.
They deserve to be in the Finals, as they’ve beaten every team
put in front of them, but other than a GREAT 2nd half against Brazil, they haven’t been that special.
Germany has probably been the best team… but even they LOST to
Serbia, and edged Ghana 1-0.
But if Spain has a GOOD match, they’ll do the same as the Dutch.
Make the final with one really good match.
That’s knockout football … and luckily the World Cup has been
exciting and good to watch.
From a purely entertainment point of view I would love to see the Germans go all the way. They consistently have played the best ball of the tournament.
Urgay are out are out and I am happy about that. Holland without sparkling have got to the final and I hope that will be Spains testimony too.
I would love Holland to win it now, after all they have underacheived for so long it would be nice to see them get their hands on the trophy. I wouldn’t be too disappointed if Spain win either, anyone but the Germans.
I hope the Octopus is right Fred, It would be a win win situation for Arsenal if Cesc is injury free.
http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story?id=806751&sec=europe&cc=5901
Nelson Muntz: HA HA!
Hats off to Uruguay’s defensive organization. Arsenal can learn a lot from them on how to defend as a team and right from up front.
Mixed emotions for tonight’s game.
I want Spain to win for Cesc.
I want Spain to fail because of all the Barca players and their constant tapping up of Cesc.
I want Germany to win because of my German friend.
Hope it is a good game.
Ok folks, Spain is winning tonight!
Not because Paul the octopus says so.
But because Myles the Great predicts Germany will win.
And we all know that Myles never gets it right.
A CB has finally signed.
http://www.arsenal.com/news/reserves-news/hajrovic-signs-professional-terms-at-arsenal
Not, it is not Koscielny.
It is 17-year old, Sead Hajrovic, the next Senderos / Djourou (take your pick).
The look on Ballack’s face during the Argentina game was priceless.
Surely, he is seething inside for missing the WC and to top it, Germany are playing better without him.
But outwardly, he has to show his support for his country.
I would call his celebration during the goals as controlled at best.
Definitely looking forward to today’s match, which means it can’t possibly live up to the billing….
Like others I’m conflicted about which team to support. I’m German by ancestry, but generally I’m against any show of German nationalism (i.e., my family had to leave Germany–in a hurry–in the 1930s). The Spanish, of course, aren’t a whole lot better, in this regard….
And, of course, I think about how it all relates to our boy Cesc….Barca (a bit under the WC radar) take out a 150 million Euro loan to pay their bills?!?, I guess they were counting on playing in (and winning) that CL final? If Spain go on to win the WC, with all those Barca players as conquering heroes, it can only be good for shirt sales and TV contracts (all over the world), and, of course, additional player purchases…..If they go out today, maybe not so much.
What’s the latest news?….Is Cesc with his various knocks gonna take the pitch, or ‘Nando with his goalless new hair-do? Or maybe speedy Pedro or tall Llorente might get a chance. (Both Jesus Naves and David Silva, I guess, failed to do enough with their opportunities.) Certainly it is a star-studded group, but I’m with Mazza in thinking that Busquets (and the Barca duo behind him) might finally get exposed by the German forwards/MF. Spain miss their Brazilian (Senna) and Germany (and/or Holland) may be the team to exploit his absence.
I imagine a few of us will be in the GDC for the match…
Well. Reports quote new Barca president Sandro Rosell as saying that the team does not have the money to pay player wages.
http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story?id=806751&sec=europe&cc=5901
I somehow doubt they will be buying Cesc this year, and I wonder if he would even want to go now. I don’t care how much any player loves his home team, most are probably not going to play for free. Hell, they just took a big loss selling a player back to CSKA yesterday just so he wouldn’t be on their books.
Before the tournament, I had wanted Holland or Spain to win but being disappointed with Holland mostly. Still, I rather see Holland win so that the ghosts of 1974 can finally be put to bed, or 1978 for that matter. The 1974, 1978 & 1998 Dutch teams were better than the current Dutch squad and they failed so it would be interesting to see if this Dutch team can finally pull it off.
Having Spain in the final against Holland would be nice because the two have under-achieved quite a bit, although they both have Euro titles.
Really looking forward to today’s game. Although I wonder if today’s semi would be like the Barca-Inter game where Germany let Spain have all the possession and then sit back and watch Xavi make 400 sideway passes before pouncing and dismantling Spain 2-0 or 3-0. The Swiss used that model against Spain and interestingly, the Swiss were coached by a German, not that means anything. But hey if an Octopus is news, then everything else probably has meaning Such as the earth’s rotation causing the Jabulani to swerve into the net or something.
Laurent Koscielny moves is now official.
Hope he is TV’s soul brother and not another Cygan..
Spanish pundit Guillem Balague on BBC Radio 5 Live:
“Fernando Torres will be on the bench for Spain tonight and Pedro will start.”
Pedro has been sensational for Barca in the league as well as key CL games. He was the one who rocked the post before Villa scored against Paraguay.
Guess Cesc is not fit to start.
Barca’s player kit for next season should have the following words on the front:
“Will play for food.”
And the replica shirts sold to the fans should say:
“I am a financial donor to the club.”
ChicagoGooner Reply:
July 7th, 2010 at 5:20 pm
HAHAHA!!
That link you posted above said they didn’t even deliver last month’s wages to the players.
ChicagoGooner Reply:
July 7th, 2010 at 5:26 pm
Nevermind, I think it was the link from Seattle Gooner that said that. Still funny tho.
The new Barca president has blamed Arsenal for allowing the media interest in in Cesc Fabregas’ possible transfer to raise the transfer fee sky high. WTF? The only thing Arsenal have said is that Barca made an offer and they have refused it because Cesc is too valuable to the team. Screw Barca.
If Germany score first, I can’t see Spain coming back. Neuer is the key. He’s very prone to the gaff. He hasn’t cost Germany yet and he may not but the likelihood of him going an entire World Cup… We’ll see.
Game’s on now. Maybe I’ll scoot over to the GDC.
Spain make it. They were clearly the better side. Germany totally outplayed in terms of passing and possession. Should be a good final.
Go Oranje!!
There you have it: The first World Cup in Africa will be won by a brand-new champion. The last time a final featured to non-winners was 1978.
I really don’t know who to cheer for… I gave Spain 32 pts in my pool and Holland 31… too bad I f*cked up all the other picks and I was out after the group stage!
Another notable note to note: there were no bookings in that game.
Finally, a new team will win the WC. About time. And I hope that team is Holland Although I can’t envision a classic final though. Germany will probably find their scoring boots in the 3rd place game when Muller returns and helps Klose to his 15 goal mark.
ChicagoGooner Reply:
July 7th, 2010 at 5:39 pm
Do goals in the third place game count?
sachin Reply:
July 7th, 2010 at 6:51 pm
why wouldn’t they? It is still an official World Cup game. Or are you trying to make a sarcastic comment that I don’t get?
CaribKid Reply:
July 7th, 2010 at 7:07 pm
They count.
ChicagoGooner Reply:
July 7th, 2010 at 7:36 pm
No I actually wondered. It’s an official game, yeah… but for teams that were eliminated. If it were up to me, they wouldn’t count.
sachin Reply:
July 7th, 2010 at 8:04 pm
Fontaine got 4 goals in such a third place game in 1958. So without those 4 goals, his overall WC tally would only have been 9 not the current 13. I believe Suker clinched a goal in a third place in 1998 thereby giving him 6 goals & top goal scorer award in 1998.
I would want to see the 3rd place game scraped all together as usually one team is less up for it than the other. Ofcourse, that does lead to a case where the 3rd place game has lots of goals. In 1998, both the final and 3rd place had 3 goals each but otherwise, one would have to back to 1978 when the final had more goals than the 3rd place game.
Basically turned out how I expected.
Spain have the technical mastery to slow the game down and take the fight and energy out of the Germans. We seen that in the final of euro 2008 and although Germany have improved, they’re still ripe pickings for a team of Spain’s class.
Close-ish game on the scoreboard, but Spain had them on a leash for the most part.
Spain should stuff the dutch in terms of possession even more embarrasingly than tonight but Holland could score at any moment so should be a good one.
seattle gooner Reply:
July 7th, 2010 at 6:38 pm
Spain should have scored several more goals at the end of the game on counter-attacks, but each time the man with the ball selfishly tried to do it all leaving a man wide open on the left who probably would have scored easily. I kept waiting for that to come back and bite them but it never happened.
Germany appeared to try and play the same counter-attacking game that Portugal tried and it worked out pretty much the same. In the second half you could see the goal coming because Spain were just allowed to have too much possession.
Fred Reply:
July 7th, 2010 at 6:43 pm
You were right on how it eventually turned out.
The margins were close enough though, and the Mueller suspension is a bit of a factor as he is the REAL gladiator attacking wise. Ozil is not really the big-moment guy.
Loew should have gone for disrupting them very high up rather than trying to go all “Inter” on them.
The benching Torres and finally playing with 11 men helped Spain too
sachin Reply:
July 7th, 2010 at 6:56 pm
In the 1974 WC final, it was all Holland. Can’t remember how much posession the Dutch had in 1978 but this time around, like you say, Spain will have majority of posession in the final. Then hopefully Holland can score with a one chance and win
Now that Germany is out and that (darned Octopus is going to die for it!!!) I can now avoid the absolute torture of watching a Holland-Germany final. Being 1/4 Dutch and 1/4 German, and having lived significantly in both countries I have no idea how I would have handled it.
The Oranje really need to win this – despite their altogether poor play – they need to win it for the 74 and 78 team, for Cruijf and Bergkamp. A goal for van Persie wont be bad either.
——————————————————————-
Dan Gosling available on a free??? Wenger jump on that!!
Get in Gosling, Joe Cole ASAP. Free and English – Wenger cant possibly complain about inflated prices now can he?
sachin Reply:
July 7th, 2010 at 7:09 pm
Oddly, I wouldn’t have been able to handle a Holland-Germany final either. One of the first WC games I saw as a young kid was the 1974 final and I thought it was so unfair that the Dutch didn’t win that. I was happy the Dutch won Euro 88 by beating Germany in the semis but then was crushed at Italia 1990. Interestingly, all 3 games ended 2-1.
CaribKid Reply:
July 7th, 2010 at 9:25 pm
I also vividly remember the 74 game Sachin. I was a big Le Orange fan because of their total football and Brazil was eliminated.
I was deeply disappointed when Holland lost on that Gerd Mueller goal which he scored while sitting on his ass.
@Fred,
1/4 German, 1/4 Dutch! WOW! what’s the other half?
Fred Reply:
July 7th, 2010 at 11:10 pm
American!
Mom’s side has been stateside for over 300 years. So British essentially. Father’s side Dutch/German 20th century immigrants.
All-american baby! Not the ignorant type though … I’ve seen the world
Spain dominated possession, and got it done.
Germany produced very little offensive, and were mostly on their
back foot the whole match.
Without a lead, they are very suspect… they
simply were not as good as Spain.
I think they will take it to the Dutch as well.
I predicted Spain at the start… hard not too.
Too many good players, too much depth.
They CAN play defense as well… contrary to popular belief.
Happy to see the win…
and what was really amazing, is that there were almost NO FOULS
in this match.
Remember Arsenal v Barcelona, where Barcelona hardly commited a foul
the entire match(es)… same for Spain.
They don’t foul. So there was very little stoppage in play, and a
lot of flow to the game, making it quite easy on the eyes.
Well done Spain.
AND… Arsenal finally confirm and complete
the signing of Koscielny.
Happy we signed a CB… would be nice to lock up Sol
Campbell now… and we can move on to other positions.
Will Schwarzer quickly follow?
Would be nice … as we starting training in about a week in Austria.
Looks like everyone is going for for Holland with their hearts, but for Spain with their brains.
seattle gooner Reply:
July 7th, 2010 at 8:53 pm
I honestly have no idea who to root for. I’ve always liked both teams because despite all the talent they have, both teams have a history of finding a way to lose. I suppose rooting for the loveable loser always appeals to me.
That and traditionally they have played some pretty nice ball, although I don’t think the Dutch have been all that entertaining in this tournament. As someone said above, they’ve only really played on half of really good football against Brazil.
CaribKid Reply:
July 7th, 2010 at 9:29 pm
Sentimentally, I am rooting for the Dutch to erase their title as the best national team never to win the WC.
I was behind Spain all the way at the Euros but have been somewhat turned off by how they do business. Tapping up of players by Real and Barca, players tapping up for their clubs, arrogance in dealing with other organizations.
Let’s go Holland.
Fred Reply:
July 7th, 2010 at 11:11 pm
Ditto, I hate their arrogance.
sachin Reply:
July 8th, 2010 at 3:12 am
Yeah I also have trouble seeing Spain thinking that most of these players will go to the press after the game and once again open their mouth about why Cesc should come to Barca.
For me, it has to be the Dutch.
stag133 Reply:
July 7th, 2010 at 10:31 pm
no ties to the Dutch at all.
don’t like them with my heart or head… they have the best kits, and had Bergy & now RVP… but not caring a damn about the Dutch.
I appreciate the style of play of Spain… the fact that they don’t foul a lot, and if you like the Arsenal passing game, Spain’s is along the same lines… lots of passing, not enough direct shooting!
Spain.
All Day.
Just don’t want an injury to RVP or Cesc.
sachin Reply:
July 8th, 2010 at 3:27 am
Yeah I didn’t realize how limited their fouling has been. A friend said that Spain is like their manager, quietly going about their way. Although the team can’t shut their mouth off the field about Cesc though
Everyone seems to be recalling the ’74 final. When people talk about the Dutch, they always mention that one but never the ’78 final. Probably b/c of their rivalry and ‘real’ history w/ Germany, as well as the absence of Cuyff in ’78.
Anyways, for those that have seen many more World Cups than I have (which would be about 3 now, maybe 3.5), which one was your favorite? Which one had the best football, which one do you have the fondest memories of?
Of the ones I’ve seen, this one definitely tops the pile. 2002 would be 2nd b/c the USA made it so far. If I remembered more of 1998 it would also beat out 2006, which was won by my least favorite team and featured somewhat lackluster games.
Fred Reply:
July 7th, 2010 at 11:20 pm
Italia 90 is my favorite … mostly because I was a youngling watching my first full World Cup. Technically it wasnt that great, but it was high school … more memorable!
Roberto Baggio my favorite player of that WC.
Cant really remember Mexico 86 much, a bit too young plus it was way too late at night due to different time zone (me being in Europe).
Every World cup since then has been progressively worse (except France 98 and this one). Japan/South Korea is my all time worst.
sachin Reply:
July 8th, 2010 at 3:07 am
I will echo Fred a bit here but Italia 90 & USA 94 have fond memories for me. Italia 90 was the first time I saw every single game of the world cup and I gobbled everything up. Back then, I was young and didn’t know too much about football so everything I saw was just great. Baggio and Zenga were my heroes and for some reason I remember being a fan of Giuseppe Giannini although my memory fades. There were plenty of interesting stories, right from the opener. It was interesting to see how Argentina’s #2 keeper Goycochea came in from nowhere and carried the team so far.
USA 94 had some surprizing stories as well especially how Romania took apart Columbia. That was a game of contrasting styles and it was jaw dropping, seeing Hagi at work.
Also, I think back in 90 & 94, there was a bigger chance to be surprized as I didn’t enjoy too much soccer coverage outside of the world cups. So I was not saturated with any hype going into the world cup and could enjoy the games for what they were.
I have been pleasantly surprized by this world cup and have loved it, although I could do without the first week or so.
CaribKid Reply:
July 8th, 2010 at 9:31 am
I know this shows my age (lol) but the first WC I watched in total was 1970, thanks to the origin of the “Big Dish” which a friend of mine had installed for the occasion.
Brazil beat Italy 4-1 in the finals and retired the Jules Rimet Cup, the original WC, as they captured their 3rd title.
This was the final chance to see Pele on the international stage and Brazil totally dominated by winning all six of their games in their irrepressible Samba style.
The Brazil 1970 team is widely considered as the best ever. Since then, I would have to say the current WC has been most intriguing due to the refereeing controversies, close calls, surprise wins and the monotonous drone of vuvuzelas.
I think Holland will beat Spain. I know a lot of records have been beaten in this WC, but no team has ever won it after losing a first round game and I don’t think that will change.
My fav WC is this one. I like it when less fancied teams play well and there are lots of surprises.
2006 was pathetic thanks to the Italians although Germany’s games against Argentina and Italy were fun.
2002 was also poor. Although smaller countries did well, there was more than a dollop of luck/refereeing involved. Plus I was traveling all over the world, so couldn’t catch all the games.
1998 was fun. I likes France’s rise to the top, especially Zidane’s brilliance in the final.
1994 was the most boring WC, IMHO. The games were at odd hours and barring two games (Hol vs Bra and Arg vs Rom), I can’t remember being excited in any game.
1990 was my first WC from start to end. It was pretty good, but I wasn’t too happy with the way Arg made it all the way to the final thanks to penalties. Was happy that they lost finally.
1986, I only saw from Q/F onwards. Too little and can’t remember much now. I remember Socrates missing a penalty in regular time against France, Belanov scoring a hat-trick but still losing to Belgium, and of course the final, which still remains the most exciting final I have watched so far.
Now for the biggest question.
We all now the Dutch will stick to their tried and tested starting 11 for the final.
Spain – Torres or Pedro?
I really liked that Pedro kid. I know he screwed up on the late chance and was immediately hauled off. But looking at him and Muller, I wonder what the fuss around Theo is all about. These kids are younger than Theo but light years ahead of him. They play consistently for their clubs, produce the goods and are proving invaluable for their country.
ChicagoGooner Reply:
July 8th, 2010 at 2:42 am
The mistake was bad, but only the dumbest of the dumb would not learn from it. I am sure the elder players in the team were sure to kick his ass for it after the game ended too.
Hopefully, one bad play by him will not convince Del Bosque to go back to the man who has had a string of bad plays throughout the Cup- unless you’re rooting for Holland, that is.
The more I think about it, the more I am rooting for Holland. I’m still up in the air, but from a long historical perspective of football, they are the more deserving nation.
nipuna Reply:
July 8th, 2010 at 5:42 am
I would start with Pedro, but I am supporting Holland so I don’t mind if they start with Torres.
One good thing about this final: At least one Arsenal player- even if it is just one out of 25-ish- will actually, at long last, FINALLY win something. From failing to win so much as the CC, FA, EPL, or CL to winning the greatest prize there is in the entire sporting universe… at least someone on Arsenal’s squad will know what it feels like to win something. Maybe (hopefully) then RVP or Cesc (if he’s still around) can teach the rest of the squad how to do it… and give Arsene a refresher too, since he used to know how but somehow forgot.
Didn’t realize that Spain have only 3 yellow cards at this WC while Holland have 15, the most at the tournament. The only team that has less yellow cards than Spain is North Korea with 2. Although I heard a soccer analyst in Canada rightly say that Spain have the ball so much that they can’t possibly lead in fouls.
Both Spain and the Dutch lead in passes completed and even the length of passes and Spain have the most shots on target.
Will the Octopus be used to predict the final or is he used exclusively for German results? Since Germany has one more game, they might as well use him to see if he gets a clean sweep. There are only a max of 7 games in the WC, so I guess the Octopus has one free arm to predict……the end of the world.
It is settled then – Holland are winning the World Cup.
Because Myles the Great says it will be Spain.
Just like the octopus has predicted correctly, Myles has consistently predicted wrongly.
Who is the man looking like our manager down in South Africa? Cause I don’t remember Arsene ever talking about our players like this:
The Gunners boss, speaking to Kenya newspaper The Standard, was quoted as saying: ‘Manuel Almunia is a talented goalkeeper. In training, he is superb, the only problem is that he gets nervous on big matches, thereby making silly mistakes.
‘After the World Cup, we will be making an announcement on goalkeeping.’
There is also this Nugget:
“Koscielny can be an outstanding addition to our team, but it is not over, we are still open to buy,” Wenger told http://www.arsenal.com.
“We are still in the market for another defensive player because we have the need for one more.”
Maybe he does get it?
stag133 Reply:
July 8th, 2010 at 12:39 pm
the more he talks, the less he does!
rumors have us signing Schwarzer soon, Felipe Melo coming in with a swap for Clichy, and signing SWP for 6 Mill!
That’d give us a new keeper, new CB, new DM, new winger, and new striker.
add Joe Cole for Free, and re-sign Sol, and we’d have all that for: under 20 Million!
seattle gooner Reply:
July 8th, 2010 at 2:07 pm
Arsenal has come out and said the interview never took place and that they would request that web sites, newspapers, etc. not use it as it is patently false.
http://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archive/arsene-wenger-interview-a-clarification
nipuna Reply:
July 9th, 2010 at 3:09 am
Actions speak louder than words.
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jroybower Reply:
July 2nd, 2010 at 1:15 pm
the homeland moves on, nice.