America: the New Football (Soccer) Frontier
Better than Beckham - for American Football?
Well the World Cup is here and as much as I was loathe to write on this topic, I seem to be focused on the idea that football REAL FOOTBALL has finally arrived in the United States of America. Long the product of the rest of the world the sport that requires you use your feet to move the ball may finally have enough momentum to actually have a sustainable existence on these colonial shores.
If you needed validation of this point you only need look at the overall investment of ABC/ESPN of $400 million for the broadcast rights for World Cup. And the two organizations have poured their heart and soul into. Sharing home page prominence on ESPN.com with the likes of the Lakers and Celtics are the likes of Didier Drogba, Frank Lampard, Franck Ribery, and Landon Donovan. The networks are going all out to cover the world’s most popular sporting event. It is truly a world series. Not one named after a newspaper. And this time the US really seems to be taking notice.
The beautiful game has graced the front pages and covers many of the major US publications. The Wall Street Journal has covered the sport and to top it off the authority on what is news in America, the Drudge Report has given substantial coverage as well. If football weren’t really here and really a topic worth covering, Drudge wouldn’t cover it. Regardless of the man’s politics his site has shown a propensity of identifying what the nation wants to know about.
To top things off I was driving to the train station this morning when even my favourite radio talk show host was talking about the football. He had lots of questions and admitted that he is totall hooked ont he game. So being the talk show host he is he got access to a pundit – none other than former EPL referree Graham Poll. After lots of plesantries and Graham Poll blushing over the introduction he got, Philadelphia syndicated talk show host Michael Smerconish went into a list of questions he had about the game in order to understand it better. At one point Graham out loud wondered if this was all a joke – Michael assured him he wasn’t leading him on and was generally curious. The questions varied on how many men can play (minimum of 7 must be on the pitch), what is a striker, why the gloves on the keeper (ball travels at speeds of 70 mph), and what is the difference between red and yellow cards. It really was a football 101 and I loved it – except when Michael called Graham, Grant. It can’t all be perfect.
Besides these things I’ve mentioned maybe football was reaching a ground swell before the World Cup and maybe the World Cup is just the vehicle to address it. Everyone thought 1994 was going to be the tidal wave that sparked interest in the sport. It ushered in the era of MLS but the enthusiasm didn’t take. But kids did start to sign up for their developmental leagues in droves and now 15 years since the world cup here in the US we have spend a decade and half cultivating the sport where it matters most with the kids. Those kids are now older. They are the ones who are watching the EPL on Fox Soccer and ESPN. They are buying the kits and they are making up the majority of the supporters clubs following the MLS clubs.
There are still ways to go. MLS has to expand beyond its current model and attract young European talent to fill out its ranks. Sure, the product improves year to year but it lacks the overall excitement of the European game. Many of the games still seem to trudge along. But again, year over year the product improves. Many of the new clubs, like my own Philadelphia Union are selling out their new stadiums before the buildings are even open. If you could have seen the crowd at the unveiling of the Union logo in Philadelphia you would know that the this sports town is going to get behind its team.
The model for success isn’t so much the MLB or NFL model – its the NHL model. A largely followed sport that has loads of rabid fans but is still loosely considered a fringe or specialty sport. But if you saw the crowds at the bars and parties around the cities during even the regular season, you’d know that hockey is anything but fringe. But what hockey did as it expanded was spending the time to educate their fans. The made sure the rules were explained via the broadcasts. Expansion teams tried to bring the right talent and made sure the fans were part of the experience.
That is happening but maybe not at the breakkneck speed we footie in america fans would like. This is a great sport, regardless of what the unitiated morons say. Finally, I think football has arrived – why – on Friday when I walked around my office there wasn’t a computer that wasn’t watching France vs Uruguay. Just saying.
Some Thoughts About US v England:
This match has already been disected enough. Needless to say England should take heart from the fact that they played to a 0-0 draw in their 1966 winning campaign. The US should take heart that even on a wonky goal, they hung in and played with a football powerhouse like England. Many of my English friends were predicting a shellacking. Their arrogance was a little too much to handle but if you had watched the US and England play you knew this match was going to be tighter than national pride dictates.
By the way Robert Green should absolutely start again. Yeah he did his best Almunia and Flapianski imitation but for much of the season at West Ham he was as solid as he could be with such a weak defence. His best match – the first meeting against a Man City side that were rolling over lesser teams. He absolutely kept West Ham in the match and allowed them to stay with the stronger team.
Soccer v Football
You may have noticed I stayed away from the term soccer. I was purposely avoiding the English yelling at me saying it’s “football”. However, I wanted to remind my English friends that the term is an English term originating at Oxford:
The term “soccer” came into use in England during the 1880’s by university men from Oxford and Cambridge. The use of “association football” as distinct from “rugby football” was already in practice and “soccer” became a colloquialism formed by extending the second syllable of “association”. Today it remains a primarily journalistic or conversational term in Britain and throughout the Commonwealth, but in the United States, Canada and Australia its use is the rule.
In its early days soccer in the United States was known as football and when the national governing body of soccer in the United States was formed in 1913, it was known as “The United States of America Football Association.” In later years that gave way to “The United States Soccer Football Association” (USSFA) and then to day’s “United States Soccer Federation.” Many of the state associations in the U.S. contained “football” in their title when they were formed in the early years of the century.
In Australia the national team is known as the “Socceroos”, while one of the world’s best known soccer magazines “World Soccer” is published in England. Consequently soccer is not a term unique to the United States as many people seem to think.
And now for some Arsenal News:
The new away kit has been announced – while it should be its own story I figured I would put it up here:
The Yellow Is Back!!! - I like it!
So what do you think?
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Hai degli aggiornamenti in proposito?
Mazzaratti is a nice term! :)
Yes, I have been quite negative of late but with a strong reason. If you canceled family plans to watch Arsenal lose to Wigan 2-3, you would understand why.
Fair enough, comparing Arsenal to Switzerland is stretching it, but when it comes to short selling, Arsenal have been doing no less in the past few years. Promising a lot but delivering very little.
I will try to get back to my original self, but can’t help but feel that Arsenal have to do some winning over me. When the fixtures came out, I couldn’t care less who we are playing first or last, because right now I don’t see us having any chance of winning anything. If we sign a few good players, I might change my opinion. In any case, I won’t be taking things as seriously as before because it has ended all too familiarly (and badly) in the past. Just take it easy and enjoy the ride.
As I said before, I am looking to watch more Bundesliga this year. Except for Arsenal games. :)
LOL! I cannot remember what caused me to coin the term for those with the Mazza mindset, I am happy you appreciate the humour.
Yep you have strong reason to be negative Nip.
Enjoy the ride is the right attitude, I learned that in the Terry Neill management era. As my friend used to say “don’t put you trust in Arsenal they will disappoint you” LOL
I hope you enjoy the Bundesliga, i will give it a miss since I was grown up in England with a steady diet of war movies I have an aversion to most things German LOL!
Enjoy the football, Arthur!
Country should not matter, because as you know, if that were the case, I could never watch the EPL. :)
LOL! I get you
of England…
I won’t rule them out so early yet.
From what I understand of the English, from a footballing point of view, they are always at their best when their backs are against the wall.
That is, of course, provided the current bunch of English stars still have that famous English fighting spirit left in them.
England will win nothing, but if they can break the apparent lethargy and struggle out of the group stage then like you said they do seem to functions better when their backs are against the wall.
I would expect better performances from England in the KO stages it is their way, start terrible come to life in the KOs.
Andez what country are you from? I am puzzled, I used to assume you were a Spanish speaking American.
art, one reason I believe England will qualify for the 2nd round (of 16) is – because everyone has been prematurely written them off at the moment.
You know how I feel about Terry, Cole, Rooney the likes, never their fans and never will be. But I cannot lie to myself those guys are softies. Mentally they are tough. Or else their clubs would not have beat us to the league titles. As talent wise, we are as good as anybody in the Premiership.
when everyone are talking like England are already out of the WC, that will only fire them up. Capello doesnt’ even need to do the team talk, just pass them the newspapers.
As for where i’m coming from, I’d like to keep it unknown to anyone. I’m already being accused of bias when comes to support my club, at least now I can pretend to be a neutral when comes to international competition! KoolAid-free ;)
I think the mental strength you are talking about varies from the EPL to the WC.
For instance in a league game, Rooney is abusing the referee every second minute. Mouthing some bad words every second second. Have you seen him do that here?
Similarly, in the league, if someone is passing the ball well, you just aim at their leg and give it one nice kick, a la Phil Neville. The referee will probably have a “word” with you.
In the World Cup, any half bad tackle and you are into the book.
So, maybe it is simply not the same.
LOL! Your prerogative ‘dez.
But you know my mind is just wondering right now.
I would think somewhere with an American connection but Spanish speaking.
Hmmmh… maybe a team in the competition maybe that’s why you refer to bias?
Mexico, no yo u don’t big up Vela that much. That would be a natural inclination if he were your country man or maybe you are so cagey you don’t want to let on ;-)
Paraguay? Naaa, you would have been calling for Santa Cruz as a replacement for Ade?
Anyway no real American connection there.
Uummh Brazil, no they speak Spanish not Portuguese.
Argentina no! Spain no!
Ummmh maybe your team is not there after all, how about Cuba or Puerto Rico? they have an American connection, a bit of notoriety so you would want the Yanks labelling you.
That was fun guess the nationality :-D
No need to answer me Andez i am just having fun
Brazil speak Portuguese not Spanish!!
As for England the pressure is still on.
Hopefully the criticism will spur the like s of Wayne Rooney to put their heart into the cause.
The DF cannot be faulted at the moment but the Gerrards, Rooney, Lampards and Lennons need to stand up and be counted.
either of two Englands can come out for the last game, one whom will show an aggressive attitude with their desire to win the game or one that is afraid due to the pressure upon their shoulders.
Being an optimist I expect them toscrape through either way and be mentally ready for the KOs.
Saying that I want Ghana to win the world cup, yep I know it is extremely unlikey. But I will support England in any other game but against Ghana and the Ivory Coast.
World Cup 2010: Spain midfielder Cesc Fabregas disappointed to be left on the bench during loss to Switzerland
Well, perhaps he should ask for a move transferring to Brazil.
LOL! But he wouldn’t mind sitting on Barca’ bench it seems.
Being the main man for Switzerland and beat Spain once in a blue moon but never win anything
OR
be on the bench for Spain but start in fewer games and come on as a sub in some others and go on to win the Euro and maybe the WC.
Tough choice?
Sorry Nip I can’t see the relevance.
that’s an awful comparison Nip. If your point is to compare Switzerland to Arsenal.
Switzerland never won anything in their history. I forgot how many times Arsenal had won the league and FA Cup in our history.
bare in mind though, we finished 3rd in the league last season. Not 13.
So instead of Switzerland, you should compare Arsenal to Holland.
don’t sell the club you “support” so short man.
Oh I get it now! I just couldn’t grasp the fact that our dear Nipuna would be comparing our glorious club to Switzerland! ;-)
Come on Nip don’t let your shift to negativism make you sound like a faithful and devoted Mazzaratti ;-)
one more point Nip.
I think everyone remember or heard of George Best of Northern Ireland (during his time N.Ireland never got to play in WC).
But name me a “sub” from that most famous WC winning team of all time – Brazil 1970.
some 40 years down the road, I’m sure fans will remember or hear of Messi who won a Champions League with Barcelona.
but not sure how many of them will remember or hear of Alex Hleb.
Good point ‘dez but I am sure that Cesc would get more play than the Ice Cream Man, he has far more quality, contrary to the beliefs of the Hlebists ;-)
As for the ball, they did use the new ball in the last few months in the German league. Why only there? Because Adidas is the sponsor in the Germany, while it is Nike in most other top leagues.
Not sure if FIFA tried to push the ball in other leagues, but I doubt someone like Nike would allow it.
“The ball was launched in December. Since then it has been used in the United States, Germany, Argentina without any negative comments,” said the company.”
The link to the article is in my comment above.
Yep you’re right the Nike sponsored leagues would not allow it
I knew from the moment I saw Lampard and Gerrard in a 2-man midfield before the first game that Fabio had completely lost it and that England were doomed. So not really surprised.
When you combine Fabio’s new found ineptitude with the fact the country doesnt have a single decent keeper or proper wingers or ability to patiently build play, then its no real surprise they struggle.
” the world’s biggest tournament is hardly the ideal TIME for players to “get used to” a new ball.
Don’t you think players would perform to a better, higher standard with a football they had played with it for years?”
I agree with you totally Andez it is just a dumb decision made by people who do not understand the game. The premise that lighter more unpredictable balls automatically means more goals therefore more entertaining football is so short sighted. To compound the error they have introduced it at the WC no less. It has backfired in quite a big way with so many chances ballooned over the bar and not one direct free kick scored to date.
yes art,
the worst part is it wasn’t the first time they did that (intro a new ball in WC).
Those decision makers probably never played football in their life, not even park football.
say, players’ boots. The players today can afford to wear a new pair of boots for every different game if they want to(just ring their sponsors).
But I bet few of them do. Players would stick to their old boots, cos they are already used to playing with them, and feel comfortable playing with the old boots on.
Let alone the ball.
I guess it’s not really a coincidence that World Cup always ended up disappointing in recent years. 4 years ago it was the stupid new rule that got lot of players sending off in early rounds. Now that.
‘Dez this happens in all walks of life people making decisons from on high without knowing or not caring about the reality that is facing the people that these decisions affect.
Haven’t they made the ball lighter before, how far do they intend to go with this? how light does the ball have to be before they stop?
Contrary to popular belief, the ball is not lighter. It has to conform with FIFA weight and diameter specs. The major differences are as follows:
1) Different material
2) No seams
3) The surface of the ball is now dimpled, which produces the golf ball effect
Combined with the rarefied air at high altitude it produces a totally different effect in comparison to the old ball.
BTW, the ball is shite and should not have been introduced so quickly for the WC.
Carib is the different material lighter? Has the weight spec being reduced?
I hear all the comentators say it is a lighter ball and it appears to change course more which is consistent with a lighter ball. What is the golf ball effect apart from aesthetics?
What were FIFA trying to achieve by introducing this new ball?
No need reply I have found an article as well:
“I wouldn’t say I am surprised by the negative reaction. It is customary when there is a new ball that players need to get used to it,” said Thomas Schaikvan, head of global public relations at adidas.
“What is strange is that people are saying the ball is lighter. That is just not true. There are stringent Fifa technical specifications and our standards are significantly tighter than that. We don’t concentrate on making a faster ball, we want to create a more stable ball.”
I have to take this this guys word for it as i have not seen any concrete evidence to the contrary but I am still skeptical as this is a virtual politician we are dealing with.
There is no mention of what he means by a more “stable ball” and how they intended to achieve it.
Do you have a link to the FIFA specifications?
Here is the link to the quote:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/world_cup_2010/8739146.stm
Funnily enough I stumbled accross this quote from the same guy:
“”According to the rigorous FIFA specification range for footballs, we have created a ball that is small and heavy allowing for maximum accuracy, perfect grip and exceptionally stable flight,” said Thomas Van Schaik, the adidas Head of Global Public Relations.”
So this politrican is saying the ball is heavier and smaller!! How much give and take do these FIFA specifications have!!?
I see, FIFA introduced the new ball to help their partners Adidas make more money.
The route of all (kinds of) evil… I might have guessed. Stupid question really ;-)
@ arthur:
“Do you think you know better than the national team manager and even the Frnch public who watch these players week in week out?
if France hads any better there would be a public outcry.
Do not waste your time with the list I doubt if anyone will take it seriously anyway.”
1) There are donkeys who know more than the Raymond Domenech.
2) The French public doesnt give two f%cks for the NT. They look at it like a circus. Support from white French is extremely low … compared to France 98. Most call the NT a “zoo” … (and yes it does have racist connotations). Black African french care more about Senegal and Ivory Coast than for the French team. The support for the NT lies mostly with the Algerian and Caribbean immigrants. The only folks who would bother to give analysis or engage in a “public outcry” are the FFF and the elite papers … but even those are far too jaded to give an “outcry”. The most they can do is continually blast Domenech, which they have always done.
If you speak or understand French, you should have a look at the blogs and papers and see for yourself.
3) I was talking about a bunch of players that could have been blooded in starting in 2006, that would have given them time to get exposed, move to “bigger” clubs and been ready for 2010. Instead, Raymond wasted the last four years on the same weary brigade of Vieira, Henry, Gallas, Abidal, etc.
4) NOTHING anybody says on a blog is taken seriously by anybody. Its called a blog, Arthur, it isnt “real” life ;-)
“Its called a blog, Arthur, it isnt “real” life” Duuuhhh, Thank you Fred for the reality check, I found myself getting carried away there ;-)
No I don’t speak French or understand it. But I know enough about life to know what bullshit smells like :-P
No, Seriously ;-)
1)Donkeys may know more than our Ray but you don’t
2)
a)The French public, who? how many? Any facts/stats to back up your very general claim. Do you know any black French people? I know some that support France and see themselves as French too.
b)The term “outcry” I used is for dramatic purposes it is not intended to be a definitive descriptive… it’s called a blog, Fred it’s not real life. However if Domonech was ignorant enough to bring even half a squad of the wrong players leaving the cream of the crop at home I am sure we would hear about it, in English even. But as I said only the exclusion of Benzema and Nasri have caused an “outcry”.
c)When I see the French crowd I don’t see a Algerian/Caribbean majority I see at least 90% of them being white French. Maybe your understanding of the language in those French blogs is on the wane or you are deliberately trying to misinform me.
3)Fred do you have a scouting network that stretches the globe (excluding Championship Manager)? I am unlikely to believe that you know a team of players that should have been good enough to jeopardise Frances chances in 2006 by being “blooded” at the World Cup of all places. In the real world do managers scout youngsters at WC tournaments or at youth level comps and at their various clubs? I am referring to “real life” Fred. In the real world their clubs would play them regularly and they would be scouted from there, like Benzema and Nasri. If these hypothetical wonderkids you are talking about are not good enough to be included in this WC squad how could they possible have been good enough to have been “blooded” in 2006. The weary brigade you refer to were most likely the best France had to offer in 2006 being 4 years younger.
4)Thanks again Fred these are words of wisdom that I will cherish like the woman of my dreams and cleave to like a baby to bosom of his dear mother. In fact Fred I will take those words to my grave and even then the hands of death will be unable to wrestle that glorious light from the depths of my very soul ;-)
Olalala, arthur, dont get too emotional, man. Keep the hormone levels down ;-)
1) I know more than you and Ray, son :-)
2) Between 1997 and 2006, I was based in Kaiserslautern, Germany but spent 4 months each year in Marseille, where my company was headquartered. I speak French fluently and use it both locally and for technical conferences.
3) Blood in players AFTER the world cup in 2006, rather than FAIL with the same old brigade.
I assumed you understood English comprehension.
4) Whats with the hormonal hysteria? You’re OK? :-)
No hormone hysteria, just fun Fred, honestly. I enjoyed myself disecting your nonsense.
As usual you never answer anything directly. When you look like a prat best policy do not focus on the points made just try and deflect the focus on to something else. Ingenious ;-)
LOL.
I said France should have purged the team after 2006 and for some reason you disagree with that.
You have NEVER been to France and know nothing about the country and dont speak the language and you happily admit it YET you actually argue with me. LOL!
Get the oestrogen levels down boy. Its not like I insulted Adebayor or anything? ooops!:-)
Kinda having this impression that – the new ball was designed to make the keepers look bad.
I believe given TIME, players would “get used to” any type of ball. But I’d like to think the world’s biggest tournament is hardly the ideal TIME for players to “get used to” a new ball.
Don’t you think players would perform to a better, higher standard with a football they had played with it for years?
Well, but it was not the first time, and it won’t be the last time FIFA came up with this brilliant idea for “experiment” a brand new ball, or a brand new rule in a major tournament.
I’m sure those people in FIFA earn big salary, and I guess that’s what they are paid for – to come up with something with zero common sense.
When I was a young infantry paratrooper, we had this crusty, old, Sergeants First Class who fought in Vietnam. Whenever one of the young guys would screw up, he had this saying where he would say, “c’mon, son! Headass son, headass!” Obviously, this implies to pull your head out of your ass so that you can see what’s going on. It’s so appropriate to say to Capello, “headass Fabio, headass!” Except he’s got his head up Wayne Rooney’s ass. What he needs to do is send a message to Rooney, produce or sit.
If I’m Fabio, I tell everybody to be ready to play against Slovenia. I would drop Lampard for Carrick and push Gerrard closer to Rooney with Joe Cole on the right and Milner on the left. If I’m not up by two goals at the half, I’m dropping either Rooney or Gerrard (captain) for Defoe or Lampard as appropriate. That sets a precedence that if you don’t produce, anybody can be dropped. If Defoe comes off the bench and scores a brace to beat Slovenia, what can Rooney say? What can big name players say when substitutes did in half a game what they couldn’t do in 2 1/2 games? Everyone suddenly wonders who’s going to play in the next game. That’s where England need to be if they’re going to challenge for the World Cup.
I like this idea very much (i.e., ain’t never gonna happen…It would almost make me root for England…a little, maybe. And don’t look past Crouch. Johnson and Cole are about as good as it gets for fullbacks (attack-wise, at least) and ought to be able to win a corner or two, if not put in some crosses….
As for goal of the tournament…I still like the first one, the counter-attacking goal from South Africa. Donovan’s reminded me of one Arshavin made from the opposite side in his first half season with us.
Cameroon score through Eto’o early on a horrible defensive error. Both Song and Bendy playing. Reasonable fun so far….
Wild end to the 1st half in the Cameroon-Denmark match. Song gives away but then makes a goal saving block, Eto’o hits the post after another defensive gaffe….All on the heels of Bendy’s nice goal….
Sitting in the GDC if anybody else is watching….
I would do that as well Josh. England have the players to do very well, they just need to find the right combination.
It’s clear the whole Rooney, Gerrard, Lampard dynamic ain’t working. Too much water under the bridge.
Bring in Cole and Carrick. Increase the technical level of the side, slow down the tempo in midfield and just get some combination passing going. Carrick at this best can do that.
Crouch also has to play. Maybe even at the expense of Rooney.
Crouch for Hesky or not at all. But I am not sure Crouch could hold up the ball as well, but that is the only way Crouch will get on the field.
But if Rooney doesn’t turn it on in the first 20 mins he should be replaced with Defoe.
Rooney looks really lethargic, no workrate maybe the season took too much out of him. But if he does not change his attitude he needs to be dropped.
Defoe is the best other finisher in the England squad, Crouch cannot do what Defoe and Rooney can.
Well, you go with what got you there.
If he benched Rooney Lampard Gerrard… and they lose, he’s gonna get crucified.
If he goes with them, and they lose, the players are more at fault… they didn’t produce.
I think he’ll take the safe route and play the players that got England to the WC.
Crouch over who?
Rooney?
I’d rather lose than try that one.
Carlos Vela out for 10 days. Will miss last group game against Uruguay and is doubtful for possible second round game.
yawn.
he’s not that good anyway.
Haven’t been able to post on here in awhile:
1. USA: We was robbed! We should be top of the group, w/ one foot in the next round.
2. Capello? He seemed like he was blazing his own trail in the role of England manager, and in the qualifiers and friendlies he tried his own thing and it looked to be working pretty good. Why then revert to the same tried and tested BAD tactics at the last second, right when you get to the real deal?
3. Australia: Unluckiest team in the tournament. Got red cards at 56′ and 24′ in their first 2 matches. First one was soft, and the second one had to be given, but it was still very unlucky. They really deserved the point they got from Ghana, playing for 66 minutes and the only goal conceded was a PK.
4. Ghana: Luckiest f*cking team at the tournament! They have been given a PK AND played against 10 men in BOTH of their games! They are top of the group w/ 4 pts despite scoring all their goals from PK’s. Honestly, they played 66 minutes against 10 men vs. Australia and 16 minutes against 10 men vs. Serbia, and they never scored! And yet they are top of the group… sometimes luck is all you need in football.
5. Maybe I’m biased b/c he plays for the US, but the Donovan goal was the BEST of the Cup so far. Awesome!
Chicago, Ghana should not have got a penalty kick today because had Kewell not handballed then it would have gone straight in the net and denied the critics the opportunity. In other words they would have scored without a penalty! Is it luck when a Serb gets what he deserves for two challenges clearly worthy of a yellow and one that was malicious and very dangerous. Honestly Chicago was it luck or justice? By t he letter of the law is it not compulsory for a player to be sent off for deliberately handling the ball preventing it from going into the net? If it was the US playing that game would you not demand that player be sent off? If it were the US would you call it luck?
Ghana dominated the first game eleven against 11 despite being the underdogs, nothing lucky about that. They also hit the post in the Serbia game which would have made it two nil, nothing lucky about that.
Against Australia, the Roos played better with ten men IMO. Although Ghana had the most chances the Aussies had the most clear cut when they played with a more adventerous 2 up front.
The Ghanaians have lost their only decent CB pairing and are left with two youngsters, at least one of them has not even played outside Ghana. I see nothing lucky in that.
How about looking at the luck involved in the US goal against England. Yes the US deserved the victory against Slovenia as that goal was legitimate. But it could have been different if Dempsy had got the red card he deserved for that ummmh…. shall we say reckless ;-) “challenge” early on in the game.
Ghana was TERRIBLE today against the Aussies.
The Aussies were more dangerous with 10 men, and Ghana was disorganized, clueless in attack.
Ghana were not terrible against the Ozzies, they were good enough to get a draw without relying on a slippery fingered GK ;-)
Ghana have only got one decent striker fit for this world cup, they have to try and score from MF whilst keeping it tight defensively, that’s why they were shooting from distance. That’s far from clueless 133. Rather you are clueless because you don’t understand the srategy.
Ghana were more organised today than the US were against Slovenia in the first half it seems!
However they did have to play with two very inexperienced CBs, I think they got a decent result considering. However I doubt if they will be able to cope against the Germans who will aim to be ruthless.
Yep your’re biased Chicago, although Donovans goal was fantastic the first goal for Slovenia was better, a perfect strike with a crappy ball too.
No way.
Donavan’s goal was the best of the tournament.
FANTASTIC strike.
USA USA USA!
;)
LOL :-P
Anelka sent home by the French Football Federation.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/football/2010/jun/19/france-worldcup2010
I suggested he be sent home before the first game when he refused to pass to an open teammate. I doubt Benzema would have told his coach to go fuck himself. Domenech should have given himself a bit more diversity at center forward instead of putting all of his trust in Les Sulk. I’ve given Anelka the benefit of the doubt over the years but he will never clear his reputation after this. His France career is done.
If France looked likely to advance, we wouldn’t hear Anelka say anything stupid like that. I hope that France advances just so he can know that the team did it without him.
Gourcuff said the same thing that I did about France not playing for each other. It’s hard enough to win a World Cup match but it’s impossible when you don’t play as a team and your opposition does.
who has played well for France?
Gorcuff hasn’t shown anything in the WC, and he didn’t have a good year at Bordeaux either.
Anelka has always been the same, that’s why it was his first (and only) WC, despite his talent.
Domenech has done SHIT as coach of a team full of stars over the years.
I believe they have only won 4 times in 12 matches during the WC and Euros with him as manager.
Oh and Robin Van Persie is excellent at creating his own space with trickery
He can create space to get a shot off in and around the penalty area but put him on the flank and he gets shown up.
I shouldn’t have really mentioned him though. It’s more the midfielder’s fault and wide forwards. RVP is ploughing a lone furrow.
True our Robin is no winger
Nice control and lay-off for Sneijder’s goal…Another element of RVPs game that I like is how he manages to stay onside…
Match is a bit livelier now….
And RVP leaves the pitch uninjured….With commentators calling Sneijder’s goal one of the best of the tournament….Wouldn’t (future Arsenal #1?) Rob Green have been dropped for letting it go through him just as the Japan keeper did?
Two teams in the first five groups go through with 6 points and both look unconvincing, esp. at the back. Now Ghana has a chance to join them and then play Germany for a 0-0….
The excitement of the first round just goes on and on…. Pending lingering injuries and coaching whims an Arsenal player (or two) might actually play in the later match….
Holland without Robben are complete garbage. Full of static non-dribblers like Sneijder, Van Der Vaart, Kuyt and Van Persie who can’t create their own space with trickery. How on earth Van Der Vaart commands such a high reputation is beyond me.
Shows the importance of a penetrative dribbler than can penetrate the midfield line. Most important type of player in world football.
I suppose you referring to someone like Hleb, right?
Were you able to keep your pants on while watching the game you mentioned the other day ;-)
I didn’t bother with the pants :)
LOL
Personally, I think the biggest problem of the current refereeing system is – it allows the ref has too much “room” to interpret a decision based on his own liking.
As a result, it left a great deal of gray area. That resulted to a lot of “inconsistent” calls. Because every ref interprets a rule differently.
To me, that’s so wrong. Rules are rules, it should be black and white. If they want to ensure the game is FAIR PLAY.
For instance, a hard tackle, some refs would flash a yellow straightaway. Some would give the players a warning. Some would just wave play on. Under this circumstance, how can the game be played in a FAIR spirit?
That is also why if you wanna fix a game, there’s no better one to bride than the ref. Because he is free to INTERPRET the rules by himself. If he does not give a clear cut penalty in the box, or rule out a good goal, to the worst he would get hammered by the media afterward. But then, some would come up and defend them – “the refs are only human”. Before long we will see him again refereeing the next game.
If you wanna bride a player, and he has a howler, he may run the risk of being dropped by the manager afterward. The refs though, they do not have this concern. And you know no matter how poor they performed in a match, they are ONLY HUMAN afterall.
Of course, in reality, I understand that it’s hard for refs to do everything by the book. Cos if every hard tackle ought to be a bookable offense, then there would be no player left in a match after 90 minutes.
Personally, I believe there is a real need for a complete overhaul of current refereeing system. And the rules as well. Or at least try to get the refs some extra help. Be it video tech, or an extra ref.
I absolutely hate it when seeing a match ruined by the ref. People waited for 4 years to watch the teams, the players in the World Cup, not the refs.
Andy, I agree with you completely…And I like the use of the word “bride” as a verb (as in what you might do to your new wife….) but I’m sure you mean “bribe”…as in a pay off.
The referee lost control of the US match in the first minute when Dempsey’s high arm went without a yellow or at least a very strong verbal reprimand. At that point it was all catch up, with overly physical play throughout the match, including at least 4 or 5 pairs of players grappling each other on the controversial play. Still, it was a stirring comeback and we can only hope that the US get through with a win vs Algeria. And, of course, England need to do likewise against Slovenia.
Referees ARE overwhelmed and in competitions with good TV coverage their inadequacies are highlighted. A full overhaul of the rules will not happen, as the traditions of football make the game what it is. Incremental progress begins with some sort of video replay (goal line camera and manager challenges on free kick/penalties). Referees also need the “Orange” card (or three grades of censure) especially in tournaments where the yellows actually count.
haha steve, yeah, i meant bribe!
Whenever I criticized the refs at the past, you got some “no-nonsense” fellow came out and accusing me of seeking “excuse”.
Now, I’m not an US fan, and Arsenal were not involved, I would still wanna say – the refs are crap.
One of them probably singlehandly robbed away a US victory again Slovenia. That THIRD goal from US which was disallowed for…. what?
now tell me I’m talking EXCUSE.
Andez, there are posters on here who actually believe the referees are biased against Arsenal… and for Chelsea & United.
I highly doubt a ref is anti-US Soccer, but there was bad refereeing today in that match.
what’s the “difference”?
if you believe ppl who criticized refs who made bad decisions against Arsenal were merely looking for “excuse”, while now you are criticising the refs for making bad decision against your country is NOT looking for excuse?
Face it man. The refs are crap. There is no worst feeling than watching your team get robbed by a poor ref mistake.
And they DESERVE the criticisms they got. I don’t care if they are only human, or not.
the difference is, I understand the referees are human, and prone to making mistakes…
they should use video technology for goals, and take that issue out of their hands.
If a ref is biased against a team, or for a team… then they are in essence FIXING MATCHES.
That’s a big difference between bad refereeing, and a referee influencing a match with bad calls.
“If a ref is biased against a team, or for a team… then they are in essence FIXING MATCHES.”
I don’t think that is entirely true. You can be subconsciously biased and make calls that reflect this which means in the refs mind he is being fair but factors like home crowd, fear of being labelled incompetent, fear of getting ripped on by fergie etc etc, are playing a part.
I think it is a big part of why home teams get so many calls and why host nations get more than their fair share of calls.
Here’s the deal…
As bad as England were… they could win their next
match, scrape thru to the next round, play a good match, and
then BAM… all of a sudden, 2 good matches and they are in the
Semi’s…
That’s how Italy won last time…
I think the fact that just about any result is possible, and
that almost all the matches are very competitive, makes this
tournament fun.
——————-
It is a wonderful respite from thinking about Arsenal.
Wenger saying… “we will sign a defender before the end of the WC”.
Really.
Is that supposed to make it all better?
Since we haven’t re-signed 3 defenders, in Syl – Sol and Billy…
that probably might be something you should look into Arsene.
That’s genius.
Once the WC ends, we’ll have plenty of time for PANIC MODE, as it will
be around mid-July, and we will likely not have addressed any of our
glaring needs…
we’ll get excuses, as usual… you can guarantee it.
but the schedule is out for next year, and so is the away kit.
yaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaawn.
Today’s results are what set the WC in its own Universe. Three exciting matches, each with its on distinct script.
30 days of rooting for underdogs and witnessing the unexpected.
The smaller countries have gained so much ground in the areas of: physicality, tactics, and technically.
Although Holland is one of my favorites, I think Japan can pull the upset.
England were shite
Absolutely. Rooney was the King of Shite. Absolutely no workrate, the England fans should stone him.
Heskey was their best player with Barry doing a decent job.
Funny? Both were substituted.
Lampard, Gerrard and Rooney stunk up the pitch.
Yep those three really did stink!
Cannot fault the defence but I agree Barry and Heskey performed better than most, I also think Wright-Philips looked lively when he came on.
The second round of games have been great!
Anyone fancy an England upset?
oh, we can hope! I’d love a draw…
Half way there.
Got it!
What a GREAT match … and a great comeback
by the USA.
The Referee was TERRIBLE. He should not be allowed
to be involved in another World Cup match.
He cost the US the match, as the disallowed goal was RIDICULOUS.
Not only was it ONSIDE… but their was a foul AGAINST the US… which
could have been a penalty… and we still scored.
I still don’t know what the call was…
EMBARRASSING display of refereeing.
Altidore is going to be an excellent player… 20 years old.
He is strong, powerful, fast, talented…
He’d look good in an Arsenal uniform…
I think Onyewu is also becoming a very good defender…
and offered to play for AC Milan for FREE next year… to pay them
back for their faith in him recovering from injuries.
LOTS of good stories in the US Team…
The World Cup is starting to heat up…
Tim Howard… far superior to any keeper we have…
Imagine what could happen if the US could actually keep a clean sheet? ref was awful though – US should have won at the end.
Best game of the tournament so far.
We don’t die, we multiply. Who wants to play the USA?
Yeaaahh, bitches. Landonian! We don’t die, we multiply.
sure… Germany.
they are wonderful. they are excellent.
haaaaaa.
LOVE IT.
1-0 loss to Serbia.
The World Cup is beautiful.
anything can happen. one day a hero, next day a goat.
Now if everyone’s favorite, Mesut Ozil had actually done “something” in this game when it became “tough” rather than hide completely, I would have been really impressed. As it is I am not really surprised.
The Germany/Ghana game will now be do or die for them.
Played a wonderful ball through to Podolski and also deftly set up Podolski again, who then blazed over the bar again.
He’s better than Gourcuff. Better movement, more invention, better passer.
You figure that by a performance against Australia?
Judging Gourcuff based on a game with THIS France NT is utterly ridiculous. Only Lloris and Toulalan talk to him apparently.
I have watched over 50 league games of Gourcuff over the past years. I have also watched a bucket load of Bundesliga. So I know Ozil quite well too.
No one loves a dynamic more than me. And I can assure you, if you want a player to build around with a reasonably solid cast, so he can just concentrate on ripping out the hearts of Man U, you go for someone like Gourcuff.
If you are looking for flat-track bully types who are looking to embarass Burnley and co. then Ozil is definitely not bad.
But then again for the latter we already have Nasri and Diaby … sigh.
I’ll take your word for it then but I just prefer Ozil. I’m also sick of French players at the moment. They seem so depressing and lethargic.
I hear you on French players.
The problem is there is a paucity of options if/when Cesc leaves.
I fear we’d go with Nasri.
If no money is to be spent, I’ll rather get Joe Cole and make Wilshere his assistant.
In which case, he is a typical Arsenal player.
I wish I spoke French b/c I would love to hear Arsene commentate a football match. As I have said many times before, I really want to know what this man’s thought process is. His commentary might give some of those inner thoughts away.
The funny thing would be to assume that he sat there all game and talked about how the France squad was too old, that all the Arsenal players in it played superbly, that there are not enough Arsenal players in the squad, that Clichy should’ve started, that they don’t focus enough on tippy-tappy passing through the center, that the ref did not protect the French players enough, that France focuses too much on their GK, and that France deserved the win instead of Mexico b/c Mexico cheated by employing a strategy that played to all their own strengths and all of France’s weaknesses
You echo my thoughts regarding listening to his commentary. I wanted to get a friend to translate because I wanted to know if he ever talks tactics in his commentary. If he did, then I would be puzzled why none of that manifests into the Arsenal team.
Does he actually commentate – or just pass erudite comments before and after the game and at half time?
Knowing Arsene he wouldn’t give much away. His comments would be a little bit deep and mysterious.
I am not sure. I figured the person sitting next to him would be doing the play by play and would just query Wenger for some analysis. After Vela’s injury, the english commentator mentioned Wenger was present in the press box and a few minutes after that, the camera showed Wenger pulling the mike closer to his mouth to speak something.
He must have said – I am planning to give Vela a new contract. :)
makes perfect sense, he gets injured, new contract on the way. No wait a minute. that makes too much sense. Maybe he said see I already gave him a new contract and now he has gotten injured while on international duty. He is now truly an Arsenal player :) Because we all know a player isn’t pure Arsenal until he gets injured while playing for an international team. Which means there are two players on the team who will never be true Arsenal players, which is why they get so much sympathy from Le boss.
It has been a typical summer for Arsenal.
Mass exodus of players in one position (CB this time). Check.
Key player linked with a move away from club. Check.
No sign of new players (at least good ones). Check.
Lot of young teenagers joining. Check.
Arsene busy commentating at an international tournament. Check.
+ the signing of an ‘ok’ player on a free. Check ;-)
I also noted the similarity of Wenger sauntering off to the bi-annual tourney to wax lyrical to the eager masses.
He did that 2 years ago as well, and I let rip. That was when Hleb and Flam left and Ade tried to. That off-season was the beginning of the end of this first post-invincibles team. A lot of folk kept saying that he had his mobile phone and he would be doing stuff. Well….. he didn’t. And perhaps he won’t again. Although I think he might this time. That said, the chances of it being enough are remote.
This is good….
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z-Ln_rqPpPk&feature=player_embedded
That video is kind of funny, but it’s about the millionth time I’ve seen it. Someone or other has dubbed audio over that clip to make fun of just about every team and player in every sport. There was a really good Tottenham one I saw a few years ago.
My first time seeing it, so I had a jolly good laugh. :-)
Yeah it is :) I have seen the film Downfall whose subtitles were replaced here and it is a very good replacements as the intensity of the scene conveys the frustration regarding the beehive emulator.
There’s not a lot of point dissecting the French team. It needs a clean broom. Some of the players are excellent and will come good under new management. Like I said before the WC play started the French team have an inbuilt self-destruct botton as do the Dutch. Talent often isn’t the issue rather a lack of relational cohesiveness. The Germans on the other hand operate in the other extreme, individually they often seem to lack the inspirational players and yet collectively their record is stellar. Some traits simply are in a nations cultural DNA and repeat often (but not always).
I agree Sachin re Blanc’s appointment being post-WC. It struck me at the time to be a clever (some might say clinical/cynical) move to ensure Blanc wasn’t contaminated by the mess that the French team had arrived at.
Speaking of clean brooms, it looks like Wenger is taking one to the centre of his defence. The contracts of Gallas and Campbell could have been long sorted, the fact they’re not suggests Wenger is happy for them to go. With Gallas, when he’s tuned-in he’s a quality defender, yet he’s a tricky customer in a team context, and he’s accrued a bit of baggage at Arsenal. With the benefit of hindsight we may well have done better to accept a straight cash deal for Cole. I get the sense that quite a lot of what has been built over the last 5 seasons is/has been dismantled. The post-invincibles team that Wenger constructed has failed and is being replaced.
Has failed and is being replaced by more of the same: 16 year olds.
Also, a straight cash deal for Cashley maybe would’ve been better in theory, but not in real life: Gallas is not perfect, but Wenger never would have spent the extra Cashley cash to by an experienced, competent player like Gallas, especially when you consider he’s a defender.
Fair comments.
Life is rarely as tidy as we would like.
I wouldn’t be surprised to see 1 or 2 off-radar signings in their early 20’s at CB. It really does look like we’re having a clean-out.
When France won in 1998, I figured they had a great decade ahead given how many young players were emerging. But it has been painful watching them in decline starting with 2002. Change should have started after Euro 2004 but some of the retired players were called back and that led to one final attempt in 2006 to salvage some pride. Yet 2008 should have been the final straw for change. But here we are.
In a way, I see a parallel with the French team’s inability for change with Arsenal’s failure to modify. There have been many times over the years that I have felt enough was enough and that it was time for a change with Arsenal. Yet, nothing changed and things got worse.
Come to think of it. Maybe the Arsenal board and French federation also share a trait. The Arsenal board don’t want trophies but 4th will do. The French federation probably are happy just to qualify for the big tournaments.
I wish the camera didn’t show us Domenech’s face so much in the second half of the France vs Mexico game. His face had defeat written all over it but I have seen that expression on his face so many times before.
From what I have read, Wenger and Domenech have not gotten along but the two seem to share a trait in watching their team struggle helplessly while they stand on the sidelines motionless. Atleast Wenger ruffles his hair in frustration but Domenech is just too cool to mess with his hair :)
France is a team chocked full of ego-maniacs. These guys did not work for each other. The only time they worked is when they had the ball. Samir Nasri is the same type of player and would not have made a difference. Diaby was their most effective player in midfield; it’s just that he didn’t have anyone to play with.
I’ve said for years that Bergkamp is a master of deception in that he convinced Real Madrid that Anelka was worth 23 million pounds. Nicolas is a talented player but he’s still damaged goods since leaving Arsenal and he’s not special enough to lead France to silverware.
Ribery needs for someone else to be the focus in order for him to be effective. Simply put, France need someone to replace Zidane. In 1994, Houllier didn’t select Zidane and they failed to qualify for the World Cup. In ’98 and Euro 2000, Zidane played and France won. In 2002, Zidane was injured and they failed to score a single goal. In 2006 Zidane was fit and led France to the final. It’s 2010 and with Zidane retired, France have yet to score. Gourcuff is their best answer.
France needs a few changes. I was critical of Abidal at CB from before the first kick. His play buried them last night. The CM’s France started in game one, Toulalan-Diaby-Gourcuff, was the best that they’ve got. France need to drop Govou, move Ribery to the right and Malouda to the left, and they really could use Benzema; a big, pacy, greedy out and out striker who’s not going to dance with the ball but only cares about scoring. Since there’s no Benzema, and Anelka and Gignac have failed, roll the dice with Henry. He’s not a much better option but he’s a winner. In my opinion, that team is France’s best chance. They really need Benzema.
Here’s to our new signing as per the BBC:
“Arsenal have agreed a deal to sign Feyenoord’s 16-year-old midfielder Kyle Ebecilio when he becomes available on 1 July – the Gunners will only have to pay about £500,000 for the Dutch Under-17 star.”
Arsene was too busy announcing the France game he couldn’t be available to sign any “REAL” players.
Gallas looks like he is a goner as he has a multi-year offer from another club, Sol is 50-50 and I daresay he won’t offer another contract to Silvestre. Where does this leave us even if we get Kock or whatever his name is?
Signing young stars is the business of Arsenal.
Gallas, Sol, and Sylvestre are not our future.
The only young star we have signed in the last 7 years is Cesc.
We end up signing potential like Walcott, Diaby, Denilson, Merida, Vela, etc.
The adjective ‘young’ was purposely used to infer a temporary labeling, spotlighting players with potential.
Our club has an active youth academy and scouting system. Both are evaluated by those youngsters that make it to 1st team.
So in looking at the other major clubs in football, would you say that most other clubs bought their ‘star’ player in the transfer market for $illions!
You are right, Wenger’s record with real youngsters is poor actually.
Fabregas has been his sole youth project that succeeded.
Funny how 25 year old Diaby is still a “youngster” though.
When your CM is Diaby, you know you are utterly f&cked as a team.
I said it immediately after the 2006 WC that France should FLUSH out the old guard and rebuild. I even ventured that Henry, Trezeguet, Wiltord, Gallas, Vieira, etc should all retire or be retired … turns out I was right on the money.
What was the point of Henry not retiring back then. He hasnt done squat for the NT and he cant make the team.
Anelka is an overrated, blunt tool … a giant pussy who hides when it counts. Its telling that he is just making his world cup debut at age 31!!! However what annoys me the most is that Anelka was one of the ringleaders dogging Gourcuff and refusing to pass. Unprofessional twat.
Ribery? Not even showing us mere flashes. Overrated to the core. Tabloid are claiming Chelsea/Madrid wanted him for 60m … the guy isnt even the man at Bayern. The day he makes a decisive goal or assist the angels will sing allelujah!
The team needs a strong purge, a near complete clear out. Hopefully Blanc is up to it.
Apart from Nasri and Benzema do you think France has better than they already have in the squad?
Apart from those two names I doubt that many people in France are complaining about the squad. They have not got a manager with the skills to galvanise those talented players into a efficient unit.
Hopefully Blanc can galvanise them, sort out the attitude as well as the tactics. Until a new generation has blossomed that is the realistic path to take. To clear out without adequate replcements for the sake of it is ridiculous. However the likes of Henry, Gallas, Anelka will die a natural death anyway as they are all on the down side of their careers and Blanc will have to blood replacments for the next WC and even Euros.
The jury is still out on Diaby Your Honour so don’t sentence him just yet.
There are 10s of players I could name that could do a job. A whole new generation of under-rated players.
Will give a list when next I have time.
Make no mistake though, these set of overrated has-beens are not the best France can give.
Do you think you know better than the national team manager and even the Frnch public who watch these players week in week out?
if France hads any better there would be a public outcry.
Do not waste your time with the list I doubt if anyone will take it seriously anyway.
Fred, I’m not sure why you take such pleasure to slam Arsenal players – especially Diaby.
Maybe his playing style doesn’t suit you, but if you want to critique the play of the French team, the spotlight is not on Diaby.
So much of the French play went through Evra, Malouda, and Ribery – and to me that was the team’s achilles heel. The linking play, control of possession, and creativity from these three players was sh*t.
I dont take pleasure in slamming Arsenal players, I want Diaby to STOP being an Arsenal player so I can stop caring about his performances.
In my view, central midfield is by far the most crucial part of a team. Far more important than defense or attack.
Thats why I always slate the likes of Denilson/Diaby.
Frnace were utter dross but Diaby was one of their better players as was Evra, Sagna and Molouda I thought. Nobody could claim to have played a good game though but I certainly do not concur that Diaby was worthy of special criticism.
Dos santos looked like the best player on the pitch he put in some really good defensive work for an attacker, it’s a shame he plays for Spurs.
Diaby was utter, thorough garbage. It seems a lot of people dont really appreciate what a CM is supposed to do.
Probably because Arsenal hasnt had a solid one in years.
That said, the rest of the team aint much better.
I think you will see that Diaby broke up the play more than anyone else in that French MF.
The problem was the team was functioning so badly he was not able to offer much going forward. On occasion he had to ball and no outlet to pass to and at times he made runs which were not found.
It was by no means a stellar performance from Diaby but he was certainly one of Frances better players.
Group A is shaping out to be exactly as I picked in my office pool, although I will miss out on getting any bonus points because the group A points total will not match up with my picks of Uruguay (7 points), Mexico (6), South Africa (3) and France (1).
I went with the 2002 scores for the French in that I picked 0-0 with Uruguay, 0-2 with Mexico and 0-1 with South Africa. I have not gotten too many scores correct for this world cup so far but good to see the French have given me 2 perfect score predictions. Although I wonder if the French federation also knew that their team would fail which is why they named Blanc as manager before the world cup so as to distance themselves from the anger that will be directed at them for keeping Domenech.
Sachin those predictions were good, if I were a betting man I would enlist your services :-D
And thats an interesting theory on the timing of the Blanc announcement.
Thanks but it seems my picks are terrible when money is involved. The only time I did well was in 2006 when I won the Arsenal America World Cup pool but that was free :) On other occasions, friends have lost their money and although it is still early, it seems a few friends will get no return from my picks this time around either. My office pool is purely for fun, which is why I have gotten atleast something right.
Okay you do the predictions for free and i will place the money ;-)
but don’t tell me any money is to be placed. Any hint of money probably subconsciously makes me take a cautious approach :)
Diaby complete crap tonight. We have to sell this joke of a player pronto.
I’ve read that if you make your national team you must be good, or is it the opposite?…. Actually watching the players (and judging for yourself)….ABSURD!
Mexico looked bright from the kick-off and Vela was making nice space for himself and his mates until his (latest) injury. Diaby (I thought) looked at least as committed as any of the other French players (which is as back-handed a compliment as I can imagine). His final ball is a bit lacking….
Les Bleus will rebound with Blanc in charge and a new generation of players, hopefully including some Arsenal up and comers….
If you stand off Diaby and let him make the next move he’s totally clueless. He needs players running at him to force him to attempt progress into the space they leave, either by dropping his shoulder or doing a quick one two. Even that has a success rate of about 30 %.
Incapable of tight combination play and absolutely useless defensively.
Diaby, Walcott, Denilson along with the more talented-flatterer-to-decievers. We’ve got so many crap midfielders.
Agree Diaby did not shine today, but the ‘POOR’ performances came from Evra, Malouda, Anelka, Ribery, and Abidal.
Demichelis made 2 atrocious errors today, but he’s still nowhere near as idiotic as Kaita ws for Nigeria. Stupidest play of the Cup so far.
Malouda for Gourcuff. Diaby stays.
Nobody watching France tonight? I am in GDC.
Brazil have the same attitude towards scouting their opponents as Arsene Wenger has and they’ve won five World Cups.
I told you guys that Demichelis was garbage. He’s not done screwing up either. I’m surprised he hasn’t cost them more than one goal in two whole games. Wait until the Germans or Brazil get a hold of him.
2nd round games have started with a bang!
Uruguay thrashed South Africa.
Argentina put 4 past Korea (although the game was a lot tighter).
Nigeria have scored against Greece but are a man down now!
Has the World Cup finally kicked off?
And now Greece have equalized.
Bring it on!
The Nigerian team are so pathetic, the perennial underachievers.
What was Kieta doing?
We open away to Liverpool. First rough match is October 2 away to Chelsea. We don’t have Aston Villa on Boxing Day which is now the home leg against Chelsea.
Another trip to Liverpool to open the season…. Another 6-1 opening day victory would be tasty. Perhaps it’s an opportunity to see the stability of our club against one of our “top 4” (well, top 7, at least) rivals, following a different economic model. ‘Pool will have the excitement of a new manager and new squad members on display at “Fortress Anfield”….An exciting start to the club season for sure.
By contrast we have the continuing drone of the World Cup…or at least the sexy named blowthings everybody has their mouths upon…
Actually a bit better these past couple of days, with the Swiss bus parking success and then strong play from all those La Liga strikers scoring goals or at least looking very competent and dangerous (Forlan, Kun, Higuain, Messi). Spain will come back and I wouldn’t be surprised to see Cesc pulling at least some of the strings. (Iniesta looks awfully hurt; Villa, Silva, Naves, Xavi and Alonso just a bit slow and bereft of ideas–maybe they SHOULD be thinking about their own games, rather than how to match up with their opponents….) Argentina was a good start to the day but if ALL the inter players are now gone (Samuel hurt, Cambiasso and Zanetti left home in favor of the likes of Heinze, Maxi Rodriguez, etc????) and all those tall guys with the long hair (DiMichelis, Jonas, Romero) are the defensive answer, I think we may see the goal-fests that people hope for….
Looking forward to Mexico/France (and some Arsenal or future/former Arsenal players) later today and hoping for an early goal or two as both teams could choose to settle/play for a draw…
A somewhat interesting letter I read in the F365 mailbox, which sort of goes along with our ongoing debate about whether or not players that AW thinks are worthy of starting for Arsenal are worthy of making their NT’s starting XI:
“I was watching the build-up to the Spain v Switzerland game today and during an interview Cesc Fabregas said the difference between Arsenal and Spain was Arsenal never study the opposition whereas with Spain, they watch videos, study the expected first XI etc. However at Arsenal they concentrate on their own game, presuming this will see them through.
Is this maybe a big part – as well as their lack of great players in key positions – that they struggle against the other ‘Big Four’ teams in the Premier League? Surely knowing the opposition is a vital part of winning games?
Just wondering what any Gooners out their might think. Does Arsene really know?
Alan Keane”
Ummm. it didn’t really work too well for Spain against Switzerland, did it?
Wenger believes if his team plays well, and like its capable… it doesn’t matter what the opposition does.
I don’t agree with that, but that’s what my eyes tell me!
And Cesc is now telling tales about Arsene and Arsenal?
Not exactly flattering ones…
Why would we want him at Arsenal, if he doesn’t want to be with the club, or doesn’t like how Arsene operates?
strange. seemed like last week he said he wanted to be here, loved Arsene, and all was wonderful.
You’re right. Judge Spain solely on their one loss to Switzerland, rather than on the 40-something match streak of which that match is part of, during which they lost twice (USA, Swiss) and drew twice. I’m not saying I necessarily agree w/ what Cesc said, but to judge it based on one game, when there is a sample size of nearly 50 games is ridiculous.
Stag is ridiculous, dont bother arguing with him about this.
Spain doesn’t play against most teams very often so it makes sense they rely on tape. Arsenal plays every EPL team twice (or more) a year. I don’t think there is as much call to have to gameplan for the opponents since they are well familiar with them already.
If you have a chance to catch the Chile – Honduras match, do so. Chile was impressive.
Alexis Sanchez (#7) for Chile was outstanding – he has Theo’s quickness & pace but the skill and IQ of
Rosicky.
Yep, Sanchez was very impressive indeed, as were Chile.
Seems to me that the South American ‘also rans’ will be stubborn opposition in this tournament and hard to shift. Chile for their flair and Uruguay for their pragmatism and dangerous forwards.
I’m expecting lots from the South Americans. European teams have traditionally fared much worse in World Cups not held in Europe.
i forgot that cesc has still not played much after coming back from injury.
Still, personally, I think, he should start from the next match.
I remember in the last Euros, he was awesome everytime he was given a look-in
He regularly used to be subbed for Xavi, which pragmatically is something you do not see, i.e. one CM replacing another.
He created so many goals, and whenever he was on the pitch, they were much more attacking.
Against us, Xavi was immense, but that is not the level he generally plays at, while Cesc can REGULARLY weave havoc if he has to service a strike-force of Torres and Villa.
Forlan with a beauty of a goal for Uruguay
So, Sol Campbell says he is mulling
a 1-year offer with the Arsenal, versus a 2-year
with Celtic.
Nice options really, for a player who was close to being
out of football … at Notts County last year.
I wouldn’t blame him for taking 2 years at Celtic,
but I do hope he opts for the Arsenal.
I would also like for him to come back. however, I don’t blame Arsenal for only offering a one year deal and wouldn’t go beyond that.
Fabregas and Torres haven’t played a competitive match in a long time. It’s understandable that they didn’t get the nod and the same should have gone for Iniesta. Regardless, Spain should have been able to get atleast a point against Switzerland. Frankly, I don’t think all is good in their camp either. Did anyone notice how Xavi seemed to resent having that Real Madrid scum, Sergio Ramos, in the side?
As far as doffing the shirt in a goal celebration, I think it comes down to being offensive in some countries, mainly arab countries. FIFA just decided to make it a cautionable offense across the board. That could be wrong but I think I remember reading that.
don’t blow the vuvuzela, don’t take your shirt off, don’t celebrate too much!
;)
totally agree on Cesc and Torres… both coming off injuries… no need to rush them into the team…
especially in the 1st match, against a team you “should” have handled.
Maybe its me but every time I read or hear the word vuvuzela I think of a woman’s anatomy.
Just saying.
HAHAHA! Goddamnit DAG, I hadn’t thought of that but now that you mention it, I’ll keep thinking about it as too…
Man I don’t get it it must be a East Coast thing, right?
Josh,
I think the shirt removal receiving an automatic yellow card was instituted because more and more players had messages on their chests or t-shirts that were politically themed; THAT MIGHT CREATE RESENTMENT IN THE STANDS.
No Josh is right I think Ars.
If I remember right after the shirt off yellow card thing, players were still revealing messages under their shirts without taking of the shirt entirely, until Fifa anything on “under shirts” apart from the logos of the kit manufacturers that happened sometime later if I remember rightly.
I meant FIFA banned the revealing of messages under the shirts at a latter date.
I am extremely disappointed by the Spain result. I really wanted to see them turn on the style at this tournament. Now every team has played their first game, and still, if you only count the goals which Germany scored against 11 men, then not a single team has scored more than two goals in a match. I’m going crazy here!
why are you infatuated with “goals”?
the Spain match was entertaining… and so was the Chile match…
Nobody wants to lose the first match, or get beat down in the first match… so teams will opt for tentative … conservative play.
Spain didn’t finish well, but obviously they controlled the match.
They aren’t out of it, and I am pretty sure they will get out of their group!
They aren’t too concerned.
I never said that I was concerned, or that I thought they were concerned. I too am sure they will make it out of the group, and I bet they are too.
Why am I infatuated with goals? Hmm… if you’ve met a football fan that doesn’t like to see goals, let me know. Again, I am not talking about one game here, b/c there are low-scoring games that are exciting. I am talking about the first 16 games of the cup as a whole. Games w/ goals (and I’m not talking about really high-scoring matches here, just your average-scoring match) are generally more exciting than one’s without goals, and if you disagree you’re either lying or just about the ONLY football fan alive who’d rather watch a 0-0 or 1-0 than a 3-3 or 3-2.
Goals are the essence of the game, and you know it.
Asking me what my infatuation with goals is would be like asking a track-and-field fan what his obsession with fast time is.
No, not really.
There is more to football than just scoring.
I have seen fantastic 0-0 matches, and shit 2-2 matches.
Its about competition.
As a high-school track and field coach, and long-time track athlete… yes, fast times are great, but COMPETITION is just as important.
a competitive close race, is far more exciting than watching Usain Bolt win the 100 by 10 meters and run a fast time.
Yes, close competition is good. But from a neutral’s perspective I’d much rather watch a close competition w/ lots of goals (or elite times) than a close competition with few goals (or slow times).
“There is more to football than just scoring.”
Amen
Ya know, Stag, it is conceivable that soccerfreak thinks Cesc should have gotten a chance b/c he genuinely thinks Cesc is a good player… not just b/c he plays for the team soccerfreak happens to support.
I am quite aware of that, but since Spain’s line-up is littered with stars, and many in Cesc’s position, I don’t really think the term “Unthinkable” applies to the situation.
Actually, there were no stars today for Spain.
Just many Denilson’s.
I have to agree with Stag if Xavi and Iniesta were both fit I would not start Cesc.
Nor would I. But if you watched the Euros, you too know what he can do as a sub.
Yeah I agree bring him on from the bench
i did not know that del bosque was also a
retard like doemenech …
it is unthinkable that cesc was not given a chance..
should start next one, if del bosque wants to hint presence of any
grey matter…
really?
have you looked at the Spanish team?
why is it “unthinkable” that Cesc not play in a match?
He’s not a guarateed starter or player with a squad like Spain’s…
Just because he plays for Arsenal, doesn’t mean he’s gonna start…
I mean, he’s not Phil Senderos or anything!
;)
You mean the same Phil Senderos who tackled his own teammate and got hurt doing it?
that’s the one.
his team posted yet another shut-out.
we gotta get more players like Big Phil, he’d be the next Tony Adams!!
;)
Spain lose. Cesc doesn’t play. Hmm….
WOW!!! Stunner Swiss score the only goal against one of the two heavy favourites of the tournament.
And – Cesc doesn’t even make it on to the pitch.
Swiss score !!!
Route one football.
Cescie on the bench for Spain today
Torres too.
Did you guys read about how the Dutch girls were treated by FIFA?
http://blog.emiratesstadium.info/2010/06/does-the-f-in-fifa-stand-for-fascist/
Pathetic!
I read the article – had it been posted anywhere else, I’m not sure I would have given it any credibility.
Does anyone see any logic for FIFA to care about what fans wear?
If you google bavaria babes, you’ll see numerous articles about the girls being arrested and FIFA complaining about the girls so-called marketing stunt.
Truth is I saw the girls before the match and, while I thought they were hot, I had no idea who they were or what they were about. The FIFA clowns have only helped promote Bavaria beer.
I just read the article. F*ck FIFA. That is ridiculous, what a bunch of fascist pigs. Not surprising from the organization that has an incompetent, money-grubbing pig at the helm who cares about himself and his inner circle, but doesn’t give a rat’s ass about football.
Funny to see Germany play like Brazil and Brazil play like Germany. :)
Hopefully Spain will play like Spain.
Curious to see if Cesc will start for Spain tomorrow and if he does see pt, how he performs.
he’s going to do well when he plays… I think he’ll score, rip off his shirt, and reveal a t-shirt that says… I love Barcelona!
;)
He would get rightly booked for that :P
LOL, nice one Stag
I just finished watching the replay. Gutted that NZ goalscorer was booked for taking his shirt off. It gotta be the most stupid rule in football, always hate that. The player did not hurt anyone, did not cheat anyone neither. He simply could not contain his emotion at that moment. Who would? He’s playing for his country, and he just scored a last minute goal that created history in the football of NZ history – he will forever be remembered as the first player to score and earn the first point for NZ. And he was booked for that. One more booking his WC is likely to be over.
Whoever came up with those petty rules were really pathetic.
I agree Andez, can’t help but feel an experienced ref would go with the flow and usher the lads back to the centre circle. I hope the card doesn’t have any real consequence.
Reid (the NZ 6 ft 3 CB and scorer) looks interesting. He’s only played a few games for NZ and is playing professionally in Denmark.
I also think the rule is a bit much.
But the reason it was instituted was because a number of players started taking of their shirts to reveal political, nationalistic or religious quotes or symbols … which could cause unrest or rioting amongst the fans.
Ofcourse this happened more in the smaller leagues in East Europe and sometimes in Italy, France in the lower divisions.
They should just amend the rule to say yellow card if the removal of t-shirt results in any message.
Of course, this is FIFA, so nothing will happen.
The interest-factor for non-New Zealanders won’t be high yet for me ‘what a result’ for the NZ team against Slovakia.
They went a goal down which looked on the wrong end of off-side – yet quite close. NZ then competed for the remainder of the match and scored in the last minute with an excellent back-to-goal cross and an equally excellent headed finish by the young CB Reid who had been pushed forward to add to the physical firepower. The lazy commentators will accuse NZ of being physical yet as the match went on it was the Slovaks that got away with repeated fouls.
It’s been interesting to see this NZ team emerge. This is no one-off result, the team has been meshing together and playing better for some time. Ricki Herbert the coach is quality. A good man-manager, astute, and knows how to get the best out of his resources. He’ll move on after the WC to a club role – I hope he does really well.
Well done to NZ.
i missed the match, but will catch the highlight later.
but i definitely long for all the “underdogs”. It feels good watching teams getting result against the odds. Germany aside, the “favourites” so far been disappointing.
I think last time Kiwi’s appearance in WC was back in 82. with 3 defeat out of 3, scoring twice and conceding 12.
nobody gave them a prayer against Slovakia. A draw has already shown an improvement. In fact, i think the gap do become narrower these days between the so called smaller footballing nation and the traditional big guns.
A last minute equalizer as well, dream stuff for New Zealand.
You’re right Andez, understandably no one gave us much of a hope. It was 82 the only other time we made the WC. We scored a couple of goals against Scotland but Brazil (yes we got them in our group!!) toyed with us. Our emerging star then was a young striker called Wynton Rufer who went on to become a star for Werder Bremen. He was named Oceania Footballer of the Century.
It’s interesting to see that a team like NZ can now ‘compete’ with the major countries. With all our players playing professionally (even in relatively minor leagues) they learn how to compete and be organised. So the gap between the great and the rest has narrowed.
I couldn’t believe it when we scored in the last minute, it was almost like the 89 goal by Michael Thomas. In fact, when the NZ goalkeeper collected the ball almost at the end I remember thinking “I wish we could do an Arsenal 89”!!!! And in a way we did.
Kiwi, I was rooting for NZ.. As I’m sure most people were with the whole underdog thing. Felt good when you equalized (even though it didn’t do my bet of you winning the game much good). Still, it’s the first goal in the tournament (other than the dutch) that has got me off my seat. Congrats!!
Thanks Ozi, sorry about the bet ;-)
Quite surprised by the NZ effort. Kudos to them…..they deserved the draw.
The result will add to their confidence and make them even tougher in the balance of their group matches.
Also impressed with Japan and N. Korea.
I believe a few of the favorites will struggle to advance from their group.
Agreed. Football’s an unforgiving game. Matches are decided on a few incidents.
A team can be in many ways superior to their opposition yet (as we Arsenal fans know only too well) if you don’t convert that superiority you’re vulnerable.
So with the lesser lights like Japan, North Korea, NZ etc being organised and well managed the margins are closing further. So as you say upsets are on the cards.
Yeah well done to the Kiwis! I haveen’t seen the match either I hope thay will not fall away like SA in the next game.
“The lazy commentators will accuse NZ of being physical”
and the utter fools will accuse them of using purely “brute strength” LOL :-P
so they haven’t played that “football” since the 80’s?
———————————————-
Yes basically I think they started changing to a more European style of football since the 1990 WC. And in particular, US94. Far more tactical and defensive minded than their previous generation.
Of course, they always got great players. Romario/Bebeto combination up front IMO is one of the best of all time. A joy to watch. Then u got Ronaldo, after “resting” for an entire season, came alive in 2002 and stole the show.
perhaps their current style of football is more effective to get result. But they do lose that glamour of yesteryears. My personal favourite was Socrates – playing like a Kanu in midfield with passing range and vision. Eder as well, a sweet left foot and a master of banana strike.
Gotta take your hat off for the N.Koreans. Sheer guts. Period.
yes, and their hand-picked, paid fans from China, who are acting as North Koreans!
;)
would Arsenal fans wanna act like Spurs fans? if they PAY you to become one?
stupid comment.
Huh?
The rumor is… that there are NO NORTH KOREAN FANS in South Africa.
North Koreans are not allowed to leave their country. So apparently, they PAID hand-picked Chinese to act as if they are North Korean.
I have no clue what you are talking about in regard Arsenal fans acting like Spurs fans.
That makes no sense Andez. China is an ally of North Korea so the parallel you draw isn’t there. Also, no one is allowed to travel from NK, so the “fans” actually are Chinese nationals.
I think they are genuine Korean fans hand selected to go. They are probably all soldiers or something no need to pay the Chinese.
If NKs are not allowed to leave their country with permission from their goverment then how do the players leave the country?
they simply tell them if you attempt to flee, or seek asylum, we’ll kill your family.
Not just sheer guts……smart tactics and good execution.
whatever happens in the 2nd half, the N.Koreans can be very proud of their first half display. Robinho earns in a week probably more than N.Korean’s entire starting XI earn in an entire year. And yet…
The “Samba Football” is now officially a past tense. The way Brazil play today are so European.
They may still get the win in 2nd half though, N.Korea may eventually run out of steam.
you base “Samba Football” being over, on one half of football against the worst team in the tournament?
I am sure they figured they would just roll N.Korea, and not even have to break a sweat.
do u know what was “Samba football”? Go watch tapes of the Brailian teams of 80s. Worst team, best team they were taking on, Brazil never changed the way they played – they were literally “danced” through 90 minutes. Elegant, flair, slick passing. Saw anything like that in the in the N.Korea match?
so they haven’t played that “football” since the 80’s?
They still play with flair, that is rarely seen in other teams.
and also, good to see Gilberto Silva playing a prominent role for Brazil.
he’s not good enough for Arsenal though!
Hilarious.
what about Elano, Robinho? were they a success at Man City?
does that mean Man City are better than Brazil?
don’t twist things around. Arsene never said he’s not good enough. Flamini won over his place that’s all. Why dwelling on his departure? that was like age ago.
I am simply happy that he is still a good player, playing well for the Brazilian National Team.
I believe we could have kept Gilberto in the team, and he could have contributed. We sold him for 2 Million GBP. That’s NOTHING.
He still has skills, he has experience, he has WON trophies.
All the things we need a bit of in our squad.
I have a feeling Brazil will seriously dissappoint. Maybe a 2-0 or 1-0 victory or something ridiculous like that.
The team just seems way too bare! Kaka and Robinho are really the only possible “sparks” … after that you are looking at the likes of Elano, Baptista … oh dear!
Well you were dead on, except that they even conceded.
Brazil is coming on, dude. Prepare to be entertained. Anybody going to be in the GDC?
Nip, I know the uni with the blue shorts you were talking about. I have an autographed Bergkamp that my wife bought me of that. The difference is the collar was blue, so blue shorts made sense.
You know who really impressed me yesterday was the Danish LB, Poulsen. He was unfortunate with the own goal but that kid didn’t hide. It would have really been nice to see him up against Robben. I’ll be watching for him in Denmark’s next game.
Agreed, Poulsen impressed me also. Tall, quick, athletic with good ground and aerial skills.
Cameroon did have a good team back in the 90s. In fact, they were the first African force to emerge to the world scene.
As far as I’m concerned, no matter how a nation did in the Olympics, the World Cup is still the ultimate test to a football nation’s strength. World Cup is like Champions League to club football. While Olympics is like the league cup – when teams sent there an under 23 side.
Cameroon in WC 90 had beaten Argentina, the defending champs, the team with Maradona in it. It’s still one of the greatest achievement any African side had ever pull off in the world stage.
And Cameroon 1990 were not just about Roger Milla. He’s very much a supersub. Without Omam Biyik, Milla probably would not have scored all those goals. They also had a good keeper N’Kono in goal.
Don’t get it twisted. Milla was a super-duper sub. You’ve got to admit the dance Milla did after scoring changed football. That’s what Milla is most famous for. Did people even celebrate scoring goals before that?
Why do you guys keep on saying “back in the 90s”. It was ONLY in the World cup of 1990. After the world cup the team was dismantled and they struggled to get out of their group stages in the African Nations cup of the 90s.
Cameroon were solid in the 80s and peaked at Italia 90.
Even then the Roger Milla Cameroon team was mostly of brute strength and were incredible and consistent foulers.
The Nigeria team of 94-98 on the other hand hinted at real creativity with the likes of Amokachi, Ikpeba, Finidi, Kanu and ofcourse Okocha.
Too bad they like all African teams are completely indisciplined.
Sorry what did Cameroon achieve in the 80s Fred?
The world cup of the 1990 was the peak of that teams achievement why does the reference to that surprise you.
“Brute strength” Fred, LOL, really funny!! It was not brute strength but rather the African flair, fearlessness and attack minded attitude that got them to the QFs. If it was brute strength they used they would not even been remembered much less get through to the QFs.
IF you want to talk about incredible and consisent foulers and fantastic cheats you should be looking at Italy, oh yeah I forgot to remember the professional diving that they are so good at.
Fred it is not about the names fellow it is about how they play as a team don’t you get it?!! Have you ever seen Amokachi play for Everton? no better than average.
All African teams indisciplined, LOL. I would not expect anything more than ignorance from you anyway. Does Ghana look indisciplined to you? If you want to talk about fouling, who was the dirty team Serbia or Ghana? In fact it surprised me how dirty the Serbians were but no one will ever top De Rossi and his assualt on that USA striker that used to play for Fulham, forgot his name.
Next time you chat such bullshit I will probably ignore you like I usually do :-D
looks like David Seaman is having the last laugh. The media had called for him to be dropped not just back in WC2002, but EURO 2000. I was thinking back then “wait until big Dave retires, you will know how much you are going to miss him”.
Anyway, I bet Capello will start James instead of Green the next match. Simple, if he keeps faith with Green, should he make another mistake and cause England a defeat, Capello’s a$$ is on the line.
Playing James, if James makes a howler instead, Capello could say don’t blame me. It’s not my false your keepers are all crap.
he should stick with Green, and I think he will.
To return to the debate about goalless draws, the one b/w Ivory Coast and Portugal is 0-0 in the 86th minute, but I’ve been glued to the screen the whole way. Ronaldo diving again…
yes, he’s so ridiculous with his diving…
even the announcers were all over him…
the most amusing moment in the game was when Ronaldo hit the bar with that long range effort, the next moment the camera pan to the Ivory Coast bench, when I saw Drogba was making a cross sign – “thanks heaven”!
(I only watched the highlight, so I’m not sure if this was what really happened – Drogba making a cross sign right after Ronaldo hit the post. But if it’s the TV crew’s effort to edit the clip like that, it’s still funny!)
LOL! Spot on Andez. Exactly what happened…
Just saw the new kit on the official website and I’m very proud to say that they got it right. They’ve also got a warm-up that matches the kit. They really got this one right. I think it’s sexy as hell.
Now that we’ve got two nice uni’s, it’s time to win some silverware.
yes.
nice kits.
they want every one to buy those shirts and kits and warm-ups and scarves and all that merchandise!
;)
I’ll wait.
Not spending a dime on Arsenal until they spend on players to improve the team.
I hope every Arsenal supporter in the world doesn’t buy a thing from the club until the Arsenal Football Club, PLC LTD… actually attempt to better the team on the pitch.
I stopped going into my cash reserves for Arsenal merchandise at the start of the last season as a means of my silent protest.
amen.
@ arthur from last thread:
Cameroon did not have a good team in the 90s. They simply had a good run at the WC 90 and Milla scored some memorable goals. They didnt have a decent team again till the early 2000s.
The Nigeria team that won the Olympics gold in Atlanta was quite tasty though.
Agreed. I still fondly remember either Ikpeba or Kanu playing the ball off their ass for the goal in the gold medal match.
Nigeria won the ’96 Olympics and were favored to do better in France ’98. I think the Spain/Nigeria game was the best game of that World Cup. Cameroon won the 2000 Olympics.
I was lucky to be at that match (at the Nantes grounds), and did rate it exciting…..but
the Chile v Italy match had more entertainment for me;
The match of the tournament was Croatia drumming the Germans.
The team was very good Fred I watched all their games. They played very well they wer just unknown to the likes of me and you.
Cameroon put African football on the map.There was far more to that team than Roga Milla he stands out in particular because of the goals he scored and their celebration.
Yep the Nigerian team in 94 lifted the profile of African football to the next level and by the time of the Olympic triumph they had players who had become household names.
But don’t get it twisted that Cameroon team was hot they could have beaten England a dubious penalty or two! I cannot remeber each one but the English were looking for them, that I do remember.
@Nipuna,
“Szczesny is too young to be considered for the #1 position. However, good he is.”
Valdes and Casillas both started for their clubs at age 18 with Iker making his 1st Spain cap at the same age. Age is really irrelevant for the chosen ones.
Exactly. You also forget Buffon. He started for Parma at 18 too.
Van der Saar broke through at Ajax at age 19.
Szczesny is 20.
That said, we have gambled on keepers for too long. The kid should be sent on loan to a championship side for a season at least.
I haven’t seen enough of Szczesny to know if he is as good as Buffon or Casillas.
Szczesny has got to be the second coming of Lev Yashin for him to be a starter at 22. And we all know that if he makes a few mistakes, he is going to be another Manninger or Taylor.
Why risk a kid’s career like that?
He has already done that and proven himself a revelation.
Nice write-up DAG….
Hoping to weigh in on a few of the topics discussed here and in the previous thread…
I haven’t seen as much football as many of the regular posters on this site, but apparently I don’t have to…According to some, all I have to know is that if a national coach doesn’t select or play certain Arsenal players THEN they must (obviously) SUCK.
I refer, of course, to the dropping of Alexandre Song by Cameroon manager Le Guen and the massive success on display by his team. I thought Song played quite well this past season for Arsenal and was actually a large creative force (esp. when that Fabregas fellow was injured) in addition to capably handling his ball protection and DM duties. Now, thankfully, I know better….On the plus side, however, I now know that Diaby IS world class….
(In truth, I’m very eager to hear some inside scoop on why Song’s been dropped and why Cameroon and Le Guen seem hell-bent on going through the motions for three quick games and getting the hell out of South Africa. Anybody?)
Thinking about my own observations from the tournament so far…(which I now know I shouldn’t do….) Geezus, how low can we go? Old, tired players, playing on skinny pitches with a balloon for a ball (with wind to boot). If it weren’t for the hideous goalkeeper errors (and defenders too–witness goals by Mexico, Holland and Japan) we might have seen nothing but German goals. I’m surprised that fewer teams aren’t playing for set pieces, but then again, the refs seem far less tolerant of the hi-jinx in the box that I’m used to in English football. Likewise, where is the routine blind eye to players being well off-sides?….It’s as if the linesmen aren’t taking their mandatory pre-match pints….
(A nice late goal from New Zealand, spices things up a bit…At least Slovakia and the Kiwis seemed interested in procuring a result.)
Re: The USA and soccer/football and the England match….It seems that our “football” tradition (hand/throw ball, featuring big people getting the crap beaten out of them) may be the perfect training ground for the position of keeper. Our top three keepers (Friedel//Howard/Hahnemann) worked for teams that finished 6th/8th/15th while English keepers Hart/Green/James toiled for teams finishing 9th/17th/20th. Hmmm…Maybe we need to get ourselves an Old American keeper to help us until our Poles are old enough or otherwise get their wings (flappers?) under control…Seriously, if any of the keepers we have seen/been linked to warrant ANY attention, it would be Sorensen…He’s probably pretty well versed in defending the long-throw in, at least…by that same logic, maybe Ryan Shawcross is the answer in central defense….
OK, onto the Drogba/Ronaldo showdown and I’m hoping that Eboue can entertain the African audience like he does the one in Islington (two yellows, one for diving, one for arguing, in the opening minutes?). Maybe some chat in the GDC….
Cameroon has only played 1 match. That doesn’t mean their tournaments over!
They will have their chance to redeem themselves.
Portugal/IV Coast.
6 minutes in, Ronaldo already took a dive… nice won too, I say 8.2
Now its up to Eboue to match him, as you KNOW he’s going to be flopping all over the pitch before its over!
The away shorts are red/brown color. The kit looks cool!!
The away shorts are neither red nor brown – they are red currant.
Come on don’t you know Arsenal-speak yet?
LOL! Red currant, Arsenal speak indeed. Never heard that colour mentioned anywhere else. It is probably an “official” colour but most people would just be general and call it Burgandy.
If the interest in the States for football keeps growing at this rate then they will be a super power in footballing terms sometime in the future.
I’d say it will take 2 more World Cups… at least.
With the country being a nation of immigrants, there is great interest in the World Cup, but our best athletes are still playing other sports.
Yeah your right.
8 years is a really long time in footballing terms we should see a lot of progress by then.
The idea that Robert Green is, somehow, a top-quality keeper is nonsense. I didn’t just start watching Green. He’s been overrated for years and has never been top-quality. The problem is England are still looking for the replacement of David Seaman. Through the years, the media have hyped up every young English keeper with a little talent. That list ranges from Stuart Taylor and Paul Robinson to Scott Carson and Robert Green. But, it hasn’t happened yet.
In fairness to Green, it’s not all his fault. How many qualifiers did Green start? How many must-win games has Green played for England? It’s freaking nonsense to start him in a game this important for England when he has no experience playing those types of games. McClren did the same thing with Scott Carson, starting him in a must win game to qualify for the Euro’s. Carson cracked under that pressure and is still falling.
To stir it up a bit, Green may be slightly better than Fabinaski but he certainly isn’t better than Manuel Almunia. Sure, Green’s had a few awesome games but that is something that all goal keepers have in common. I’ve watched Green for years and he is just as likely to have a blunder as Almunia. In fact, I don’t recall ever seeing Almunia let such a soft shot from that far away go through his hands and into the net. The idea of Arsenal paying any amount of money for a keeper who’s only as good as Almunia is absurd.
We should just go with a player who is a serious upgrade over what we currently have.
We are simply looking at folks who are (at best) marginally better than what we have.
Seems like Arsene still believes that Fabianski can be a good keeper, because going for someone like Schwarzer is a clearly a short term move.
I think we should go for the Nigerian keeper, he is the best GK in Africa for years now apart from the Eygptian GK possibly if he still still up to it.
I have only watched him in the ANC the last couple of tournaments but he has been outstanding in both.
There was a rumour that we tried to sign him, personal terms were agreed but Hapoel upped his price to 2mill Euros and Arsene tight fist pulled out.
Maybe Arsene is not trying to “kill” Schezsny rather than Fabianski.
Szczesny is too young to be considered for the #1 position. However, good he is.
Where did you read that he was been considered for the number one position??
It has nothing to do with Fabianksi. The interest in an older keeper is two-fold:
1. Gets someone in who is experienced
2. Gets someone in who be a limited option so he is not a long-term block to Sczesnsy. From what is being said the entire staff rate him very well and there is hopes that he is really a year or two away from being the first team keeper.
Exactly DAG, on the button!
“Gets someone in who be a limited option so he is not a long-term block to Sczesnsy.”
Wenger does not want to kill Schez if he the new GK is too young he would put Shex down the pecking order and hamper his development.
JoshuaD has stuart Taylor ever played for England? or even been in the reckoning much less hyped?
I will agree is n ot much better than ‘Al if any better at all. But you must have forgotten Almunia letting one through his hands and then his legs in his first year or two at Arsenal. I cannot remember against who and how far the shot was struck from but I will never forget it.
Josh. Your opinion of course.
I watched a fair number of West Ham matches this season, and Green was VERY GOOD.
Not OK, average, or pretty good… VERY GOOD.
He saved them repeatedly, and is a major reason they stayed up.
You can have Almunia. He isn’t as good as Green in my opinion. Not even close. Almunia consistently screws up, and is still better than Fabianski.
I have always loved the yellow away shirts, the 03-04 blue + yellow being my favorite.
With this kit, I assume the shorts are red or brown? My choice would be blue.
Blue shorts don’t match, nip! Why the hell would you choose blue shorts?
Blue doesn’t match with this shirt, yes, I agree. I am guessing the shorts will be red or brown.
I meant my first choice would be blue + yellow. Remember the 03-04 kit. I always picture Pires scoring at Anfield and the celebration that followed. Awesome !
I always picture Keown lording it over RVN after the PK miss at OT. Fuck Ruud.
That shirt is hella tight. I wouldn’t change a thing about it. But what’s likely to happen is they will wear some jacked-up shorts/socks combination and mess up the potential for a really awesome looking kit. Hope I’m wrong.
I do like the new away kit… very sharp looking.
I wish they’d use that Arabic? insignia instead of “Fly Emirates”,
but hey, that’s just me…
Is there a new Home kit due out as well?
Just don’t rush out and put #4 Cesc on the back just yet!
;)
I went into Boston proper to watch the England v USA match, at
the House of Blues… they had NE Revolution players there, etc…
I figured they might attract a decent crowd and some good atmosphere.
WOW is all I can say. I was SHOCKED to see 2000 people packed into
this place… it was jammed and alive with every kick of the ball.
Nice to see that kind of interest in the US.
Arseblog had a link to the rumored new home kit. Very much a nod to the older 70s uniforms with white the sleeves.
I LOVE that shirt! IMO, Arsenal should ALWAYS stick to yellow away kits. (And all white sleeves on the home kits, but what are ya gonna do?) The only thing I would change would be the trim on the neck and arms from maroon to dark blue. But I think it looks bad ass. Yellow was the away color in the Invincibles year and the “It’s up for grabs now” year, and before teams changed away colors every year, it was always THE color. Blue is OK I guess, but no green, gold, or odd blue melding into white/gray (early 2000’s), and ESPECIALLY not white, the color of Spurs and thus of evil. The only way they can make that shirt look better now is to hoist a trophy while wearing it…