Joe Cole (Chelsea)
Joe Cole has nothing to prove at Chelsea. The arrival of Florent Malouda, even if Arjen Robben doesn't head off to Spain, will not marginalise a player whose game improved immeasurably when Jose Mourinho arrived at Stamford Bridge. But Cole must perform to the very highest level this year if he wants to secure his place in the England team.
Let's be honest here. Frank Lampard and Steven Gerrard will, if fit, be in that team. So will Owen Hargreaves - Steve McClaren has spoken publicly about the importance of the Manchester United newbie. That means there's one place left in midfield; either on the right wing, with Frank Lampard shunted left, or on the left, with Gerrard shunted right (and yes, even as I type this, it hits me again what a bad idea it is. But it will happen. Just you wait and see). That means Cole is effectively competing against every English winger - your Bentleys, your Beckhams, your Lennons, your Downings and more - for his place in the national team. And that's a hell of a challenge.
Robert Earnshaw (Derby County)
There can't be many neutrals who expect Derby to stay up this season. Having faltered in the Championship and allowed themselves to be overtaken by both Sunderland and Birmingham, it was clear they needed to strengthen significantly just to make a fight of it. As things stand, they have signed three players; 80 per cent of their summer expenditure has been on a lad who couldn't get in the West Brom side in their relegation season, and was packed off to Norwich.
It's that last point that makes Earnshaw's performances this season worth particular scrutiny. First, he needs to hit the net regularly to give his side any chance of survival. Second, in doing so, he will hope to prove he actually has what it takes to be a top-flight striker. Next May we could be laughing at Bryan Robson for booting him out - or admitting that the former England captain got a management decision right for once.
James Beattie (Everton)
Whether he'll actually be at Everton to prove anything remains to be seen, of course, but the injury to James Vaughan may give James Beattie one more chance to prove himself to be something other than a total flop. Because that's what he has been so far in an Everton shirt. The reported interest of Sheffield United should serve as a warning to Beattie. He turns 30 this January. His next move could quite possibly be his last one. He has too much natural talent for that to be a step down to the lower leagues.
No, really, he does. Look past the overweight, underperforming player in royal blue, and remember the man who scored 23 Premier League goals in a season, helped spearhead Southampton's run to an FA Cup final and has earned himself not one, not two, but five England caps. Now, don't get me wrong, I'm not arguing that Beattie is anything approaching a top-class striker, and a £6m fee looks, in retrospect, like silly money. But when he's fit and firing, he scores goals - and good goals, too. This season will be his last chance to prove he can score them for a top-flight team. Bottle it this time, and he won't get another go.
David Healy (Fulham)
I'll get it out of the way, just because it never fails to astonish me: David Healy, a man who only found the net four times for Leeds after Christmas last season, has scored more goals than any other player for any other country in Europe in the Euro2008 qualifiers. Healy can clearly perform against top-class opposition - a hat-trick against Spain proves that. So the question must be why he simply is not the same player at club level.
Is he some sort of reverse John Barnes, whose domestic performances can never live up to the promise of what he does for his country? Or was he just unlucky with his managers and teammates at Leeds? He certainly won't have that excuse at Fulham; half the Northern Ireland team will be lining up alongside him, and the manager is more than a little familiar. Could this be the season when Healy finally proves he's as good as he looks in green?
Harry Kewell (Liverpool)
Not so long ago, when Harry Kewell was tearing up defences as part of a genuinely exhilarating Leeds team, fans of any club in the country would have been glad to see him in their colours. Hang on a second, what am I talking about? Not so long ago? That was ages ago. Kewell's been at Liverpool for more than four years. And in that time, despite having got his hands on a couple of rather prestigious cup medals, he's contributed almost nothing to his club's cause.
Kewell scored more goals in his last season with Leeds than he has managed in his entire Liverpool career. The additions of Ryan Babel and Yossi Benayoun would, on paper, seem to marginalise him even more. But as Liverpool look to add much-needed width and creativity to last season's solid but dull approach, a player like Kewell could be a vital part of the team. Especially if he can finally, finally recapture his form from his days in Yorkshire.
From football365.com
Monday, 30 July 2007
AFC President Labels Socceroos Disappointing
Asian Football Confederation president Mohamed Bin Hammam has declared Australia's performance in the Asian Cup as "very disappointing".
He was the main force behind Australia's entrance into the Asian Confederation. He has admitted that he expected more.
"Australia were very disappointing because I thought they would play at least in the semi-finals but unfortunately that did not happen. But this was their first time in Asia, maybe they found the standard was not so low...and victories cannot be taken for granted." Mohamed told a news conference on Sunday.
Goal.com : Asian Cup 2007 Best Eleven
GK – Lee Woon-jae (South Korea)
May be getting on a little but was solid as a rock at the back for South Korea.
DF – Vitaliy Denisov (Uzbekistan)
Can play on the left in midfield or defence and was a sight to behold on his marauding runs forward.
DF- Oh Beom-seok (South Korea)
Young Pohang Steelers right-back was one of the finds of the competition – solid in defence, good going forward and what an engine!
DF –Yuji Nakazawa (Japan)
It was no disgrace to be undone by the majestic Malek Maaz in the semi-final, ‘Bomberhead’ was class throughout.
DF- Jassim Gholam (Iraq)
An absolute rock at the back for the new champions.
MF – Nashat Akram (Iraq)
Skilful, classy and pulled the strings for Iraq in their march to the final.
MF - Server Djeparov (Uzbekistan)
A classy, creative midfielder who is bound to go on to bigger things.
MF – Shunsuke Nakamura (Japan)
Wasn’t at his best in the semi-final defeat but overall, an impressive tournament.
FW- Malek Maaz (Saudi Arabia)
There were good reports about this guy coming out of Riyadh before the tournament but in the win over Japan, he was a pleasure to watch.
FW –Yasser Al-Qahtani (Saudi Arabia)
The Sniper confirmed that he is one of the continent’s most feared strikers. Four goals and a number of assists – a great tournament all round.
FW –Younis Mahound (Iraq)
Simple - his goals fired Iraq towards a historic championship.
Emirates Cup Final Standings
PSG vs Valencia
Arsenal vs Inter Milan
Team Pts
1. Arsenal 10
2. PSG 7
3. Valencia 5
4. Inter Milan 1
Arsenal vs Inter Milan
Team Pts
1. Arsenal 10
2. PSG 7
3. Valencia 5
4. Inter Milan 1
Asian Cup Final : Iraq Triumphs Over Saudi Arabia
Ultimately, Iraq deserved to win this tournament when we look back at the quality of opposition they disposed of. They were the better team in that final, with a proper system of play and much discipline in defending. The final was decided by poor marking by the Saudi defenders and a horrible lapse of judgement by the Saudi keeper.
Celebrations around the world for the Iraq victory.
London
Hannover, Germany
Sydney Road (unsure)
Celebrations around the world for the Iraq victory.
London
Hannover, Germany
Sydney Road (unsure)
Sunday, 29 July 2007
Transfer Talk
Sir Alex Ferguson has aimed a stinging volley at Gabriel Heinze, blasting: We'll see you in court!
Carlos Tevez's move to Manchester United will finally get the go-ahead early next week.
Portsmouth have held clear-the-air talks with Sol Campbell in an attempt to persuade him to stay.
Steve Bruce has warned Carson Yeung he will not turn Birmingham into a refuge for sub-standard Chinese imports.
Arsenal face an anxious wait to see if Eduardo da Silva will be granted a work permit.
Newcastle are awaiting developments over midfielder Kieron Dyer's future after a three-way fight for his services developed.
Roy Keane has revealed talks have stalled over a new Sunderland contract.
Chelsea are closing in on a deal to make Sevilla full-back Daniel Alves their final signing of the summer.
Everton have offered £4million, plus the choice of a squad man, in a bid to sign Wigan defender Leighton Baines.
Manchester United left-back Mikael Silvestre has snubbed a move to Newcastle because he refuses to play with Joey Barton.
Arsenal are closing in on the signing of Chelsea midfielder Lassana Diarra.
Manchester City manager Sven-Goran Eriksson hopes to have Giorgio Chiellini and Nery Castillo on board before next weekend.
Carlos Tevez's move to Manchester United will finally get the go-ahead early next week.
Portsmouth have held clear-the-air talks with Sol Campbell in an attempt to persuade him to stay.
Steve Bruce has warned Carson Yeung he will not turn Birmingham into a refuge for sub-standard Chinese imports.
Arsenal face an anxious wait to see if Eduardo da Silva will be granted a work permit.
Newcastle are awaiting developments over midfielder Kieron Dyer's future after a three-way fight for his services developed.
Roy Keane has revealed talks have stalled over a new Sunderland contract.
Chelsea are closing in on a deal to make Sevilla full-back Daniel Alves their final signing of the summer.
Everton have offered £4million, plus the choice of a squad man, in a bid to sign Wigan defender Leighton Baines.
Manchester United left-back Mikael Silvestre has snubbed a move to Newcastle because he refuses to play with Joey Barton.
Arsenal are closing in on the signing of Chelsea midfielder Lassana Diarra.
Manchester City manager Sven-Goran Eriksson hopes to have Giorgio Chiellini and Nery Castillo on board before next weekend.
Pakistan National Team Recruiting British
Pakistan are targeting British talent to boost their national teams.
The Pakistan Football Federation (PFF) will be conducting trials in northern England on Sunday and Monday to scout out British Pakistanis who are eligible to play for the national team.
"They are a lot of players of Pakistani origin in England, Ireland, Wales and Scotland who are interested in playing for their mother country. We are giving them a chance to play for their country." Saleh Faisal Hayat, the PFF President said.
Pakistan are currently 176th in the FIFA world rankings and have never qualified for the Asian Cup or the World Cup.
"We want to utilise the skills of such players as obviously the level of football competition and quality in the UK is much higher than ours," added Hayat.
Latest Major Transfers Update
7/28/2007 R. Santa Cruz Bayern to Blackburn
7/28/2007 H. Ghaly Tottenham to Birmingham
7/26/2007 Roy O'Donovan Cork City to Fulham Confirmed
7/26/2007 P. McShane West Bromwich to Sunderland
7/26/2007 C. Wilhelmsson FC Nantes Atlantique to Bolton Loan
7/26/2007 M. Petrov Atletico de Madrid to Manchester City
7/26/2007 Simao Benfica to Atletico de Madrid
7/26/2007 Moore Newcastle to Queensland Roar
7/25/2007 M. Gray Blackburn to Wolves
7/24/2007 F. Carini Inter to Murcia
7/23/2007 R. Fowler Liverpool to Cardiff City
7/23/2007 H. Helgusson Fulham to Bolton
7/23/2007 F. Ljungberg Arsenal to West Ham
7/21/2007 S. Pienaar Borussia to Everton Loan
7/21/2007 L. Young Charlton to Middlesbrough
7/20/2007 D. Tristán Mallorca to Livorno
7/20/2007 Rommedahl Charlton to Ajax
7/20/2007 I. Helguera Bujía Real Madrid to Valencia
7/20/2007 Mido Tottenham to Birmingham
7/20/2007 D. Navarro Valencia to Mallorca Loan
7/19/2007 I. Urzaiz Athletic Bilbao to Ajax
7/19/2007 Pandiani Espanyol to Osasuna
7/19/2007 C. Vieri Atalanta to Fiorentina
7/18/2007 Matuzalem Shakhtar to Zaragoza
7/28/2007 H. Ghaly Tottenham to Birmingham
7/26/2007 Roy O'Donovan Cork City to Fulham Confirmed
7/26/2007 P. McShane West Bromwich to Sunderland
7/26/2007 C. Wilhelmsson FC Nantes Atlantique to Bolton Loan
7/26/2007 M. Petrov Atletico de Madrid to Manchester City
7/26/2007 Simao Benfica to Atletico de Madrid
7/26/2007 Moore Newcastle to Queensland Roar
7/25/2007 M. Gray Blackburn to Wolves
7/24/2007 F. Carini Inter to Murcia
7/23/2007 R. Fowler Liverpool to Cardiff City
7/23/2007 H. Helgusson Fulham to Bolton
7/23/2007 F. Ljungberg Arsenal to West Ham
7/21/2007 S. Pienaar Borussia to Everton Loan
7/21/2007 L. Young Charlton to Middlesbrough
7/20/2007 D. Tristán Mallorca to Livorno
7/20/2007 Rommedahl Charlton to Ajax
7/20/2007 I. Helguera Bujía Real Madrid to Valencia
7/20/2007 Mido Tottenham to Birmingham
7/20/2007 D. Navarro Valencia to Mallorca Loan
7/19/2007 I. Urzaiz Athletic Bilbao to Ajax
7/19/2007 Pandiani Espanyol to Osasuna
7/19/2007 C. Vieri Atalanta to Fiorentina
7/18/2007 Matuzalem Shakhtar to Zaragoza
Crybaby Australian Vince Grella
Australian midfielder Vince Grella has launched a scathing attack on the team’s opponents at the Asian Cup and the Asian Football Confederation itself.
He was sent off in Australia’s quarter-final defeat against Japan for using his arm against striker Naohiro Takahara but that wasn’t his only complaint..
“He went down screaming as if he’d been shot or something and that intimidated the referee who to my surprise gave me a straight red,” Grella told Australian broadcasters SBS.
“He made such a fuss, it was like he’d broken his leg or something but I barely touched him. It was an aerial challenge I’ve made a thousand times before without there being any reaction from a referee.”
Grella also had words for the four teams that Australia faced in south-east Asia.
“They all had a bad attitude towards us," he said. "I’ve written the names of Oman, Iraq, Thailand and Japan down and I’ll be tying that note to my little finger, so it will be payback time when we meet again.”
“I don’t know what they all had against Australia but it was a joke. When Iraq scored against us, they were jumping around like Kangaroos, that’s taking the piss. Oman scored a goal, then they go and celebrate in front of the Green and Gold army, that’s taking the piss.
“When Japan called us a bunch of wrestlers before the game. They were winding us up and, as an honourable nation, their people should be ashamed of the conduct of the national team. It was totally unacceptable and disgraceful. What have we ever done to them? Except beat them at the World Cup."
They drove me insane with their remarks, I’d want to kill them before the game even starts.The way the acted wasn’t in the spirit of football. We have players in the best leagues in the world and I don’t even know the names of half their team.But I wouldn’t have come out and said they were a bunch of nobodies.”
"Thailand were unsporting, even harassing our players after we deliberately kicked the ball out of play while in a good attacking position because they had a player injured.There were guys rolling around all over the place every time we played and all our opponents went out of their way to goad us. But the referees let it all go.
"We need to remember these things and give these teams a hiding when they come to Australia in the future but we’re too nice."
Off the pitch Grella was also none too impressed.
"Our governing body needs to make sure they get the respect they show others because the AFC treated us like s**t and that’s not good enough.”
Boo hoo hoo...Mr Grella. Welcome to asian football. You guys wanted in so live with it and shut your pie hole. Australia was definitely not the best team in the tournament. Yes, they had the world class players but they didnt play as a decent enough team. We dont know who you are either Grella. If you cant even take the pre match stick from opponents, boy you are weak dude. Try again in 4 years time. Play like a team next time yah mate!
Qatar Will Be The Next Hosts
The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) has confirmed that Qatar will host the 2011 Asian Cup. The announcement comes as no surprise as the nation was the sole bidder for the competition.
Iran and India were both initially interested but failed to submit a bid.
"I think it will be a great tournament. The Asian Cup from now on will be different from what we've seen in the past, in terms of organization, in terms of popularity and in terms of standard. This is my promise to you, said AFC president Mohamed Bin Hammam
It is likely that the tournament will take place in January.
Iran and India were both initially interested but failed to submit a bid.
"I think it will be a great tournament. The Asian Cup from now on will be different from what we've seen in the past, in terms of organization, in terms of popularity and in terms of standard. This is my promise to you, said AFC president Mohamed Bin Hammam
It is likely that the tournament will take place in January.
German League Cup Final : Bayern Munich vs Schalke 04
The German League Cup, is a competition that takes place before the start of the Bundesliga season, featuring the top teams of the previous Bundesliga season and the winners of the German Cup.
Format
The Cup is played between six teams, the top four teams of the Bundesliga, the German Cup winners, and the winner of the 2nd Bundesliga. If a team is doubly qualified by also winning the German Cup, the number five team in the Bundesliga will take the spare place.
The tournament is a knock-out competition played over three rounds with two matches in the first two rounds, and a single final in the last round. The current Bundesliga champion and the German Cup winner enter the tournament in the second round. If the Bundesliga champion is also the cup winner, the Bundesliga runner-up will skip the first round. The four remaining teams play one match to determine who qualifies for the next round. The four teams in the second round then play one match to determine which teams qualify for the final. All matches take place in neutral venues and last 90 minutes, with a penalty shootout immediately following if the match is tied.
History
From 1972 to 1996, it was a single match between the German champions and German Cup winners which was called German Supercup and is akin to the English FA Community Shield. In 1997 this was extended to a cup competition consisting of six teams, the top five placed teams from the Bundesliga plus the German Cup winners, with the cup winners and champions entering in the semifinals. If the cup winner was the same as any of the top five finishers in the league, the 6th place team was entitled to participate and the format was adjusted accordingly. Starting with the 2007 cup, the participating teams will be the top four teams from the Bundesliga, the German Cup winners, as well as the winners of the 2nd Bundesliga.
Format
The Cup is played between six teams, the top four teams of the Bundesliga, the German Cup winners, and the winner of the 2nd Bundesliga. If a team is doubly qualified by also winning the German Cup, the number five team in the Bundesliga will take the spare place.
The tournament is a knock-out competition played over three rounds with two matches in the first two rounds, and a single final in the last round. The current Bundesliga champion and the German Cup winner enter the tournament in the second round. If the Bundesliga champion is also the cup winner, the Bundesliga runner-up will skip the first round. The four remaining teams play one match to determine who qualifies for the next round. The four teams in the second round then play one match to determine which teams qualify for the final. All matches take place in neutral venues and last 90 minutes, with a penalty shootout immediately following if the match is tied.
History
From 1972 to 1996, it was a single match between the German champions and German Cup winners which was called German Supercup and is akin to the English FA Community Shield. In 1997 this was extended to a cup competition consisting of six teams, the top five placed teams from the Bundesliga plus the German Cup winners, with the cup winners and champions entering in the semifinals. If the cup winner was the same as any of the top five finishers in the league, the 6th place team was entitled to participate and the format was adjusted accordingly. Starting with the 2007 cup, the participating teams will be the top four teams from the Bundesliga, the German Cup winners, as well as the winners of the 2nd Bundesliga.
Emirates Cup Day 1
Emirates Cup
The Emirates Cup is a two-day pre-season football tournament, to be held on July 28 and July 29, 2007 at Emirates Stadium in London, England. [1] The tournament is similar in style to the Amsterdam Tournament held by AFC Ajax, and is hosted by Premier League side Arsenal.
The first tournament will feature the hosts, as well as Serie A champions Inter Milan, French side Paris Saint-Germain and Spanish side Valencia. Each team will play two matches, with three points awarded for a win, one point for a draw, and a point for every goal scored, much like the Amsterdam Tournament. Hence Arsenal will not play against Valencia, and Inter Milan will not play against Paris Saint-Germain.
Valencia replaced Hamburg SV, who had to pull out of the tournament because of Intertoto Cup commitments.
Valencia vs Inter Milan
Arsenal vs Paris Saint Germain
The Emirates Cup is a two-day pre-season football tournament, to be held on July 28 and July 29, 2007 at Emirates Stadium in London, England. [1] The tournament is similar in style to the Amsterdam Tournament held by AFC Ajax, and is hosted by Premier League side Arsenal.
The first tournament will feature the hosts, as well as Serie A champions Inter Milan, French side Paris Saint-Germain and Spanish side Valencia. Each team will play two matches, with three points awarded for a win, one point for a draw, and a point for every goal scored, much like the Amsterdam Tournament. Hence Arsenal will not play against Valencia, and Inter Milan will not play against Paris Saint-Germain.
Valencia replaced Hamburg SV, who had to pull out of the tournament because of Intertoto Cup commitments.
Valencia vs Inter Milan
Arsenal vs Paris Saint Germain
Saturday, 28 July 2007
Its Gonna Be A Big Season For.....Part One
They might be world class but have to prove they've still got it, they might be hoping that a move can help save their career. For whatever reason, a lot of players need a big season this year. F365 pick one man from each club who really needs to shine...
Aleksandr Hleb (Arsenal)
Has ever a man split the Arsenal fans more? One grumpy Gooner in F365 Towers uses no adjective other than 'rancid' for Alex Bread, but any time that opinion makes its way onto the site itself it kicks off a frenzy of Emirates bickering.
The fact is, Hleb has looked a decent prospect at times, but he blimmin' well should do - he cost the best part of £10m quid. He's now entering his third full season with Arsenal, and the departure of Freddie Ljungberg means he's the biggest-name winger they have - whether you think it's his best position or not. Will he rise to the challenge, or will his failings be further exposed?
Stiliyan Petrov (Aston Villa)
The Aston Villa fans expected big things from Stiliyan Petrov when he arrived from Celtic last summer, and his debut against West Ham suggested he would deliver. The Bulgarian ran the game, his performance peaking with a sublime chip over Roy Carroll...that was cleared off the line. Would things have been different if it had gone in?
As it was, Petrov struggled desperately through Villa's winter of discontent. Even the normally loyal Martin O'Neill expressed concern over the time it had taken him to settle. Towards the end of the season, though, he began to show real signs of improvement, and played a key part in Villa's final nine-game unbeaten run. After a full pre-season, he needs to produce (and better) that end-of-season form for a full campaign. Otherwise he'll just be another player who shone in the SPL but wasn't good enough south of the border.
Gary McSheffrey (Birmingham City)
Eyebrows were raised when Birmingham forked out £4m on Coventry's Gary McSheffrey - in Championship terms, that's a lot of money. But the ends justify the means...McSheffrey's 13 goals were a vital part of the Blues' run to promotion. Overshadowed at first by the form of Nicklas Bendtner, he quickly established himself as the key man at St Andrews, whether playing wide left or up front.
Will he be able to carry that form into the Premier League? Natural skill can see you get away with being a bit small and a bit slow in the lower leagues (everybody wave to Lee Trundle), but can often see players shown up when they make the step up to the big time. McSheffrey was the Premier League's youngest player when he made his debut as a 16-year-old for Coventry back in 1999, in a 4-1 win over Villa. He could make even more friends in one side of Birmingham if he inspires the same this year.
David Bentley (Blackburn Rovers)
Refusing to play for your country's Under-21 side because you're planning on being a fixture in the senior squad a year later is a hell of a gamble. It's a gamble that's in Bentley's hands, though; if he shines this season everyone will hail his foresight. If he looks good, and it comes down to a choice between him and, say, Aaron Lennon for a spot at Euro 2008, the England management might not look too kindly on his decision. If he doesn't perform, he'll be a laughing stock.
Bentley clearly has the potential to be a very good player, and he clearly has the confidence to go with it - demanding a move from Arsenal because he felt he was good enough to play first-team football had proved that even before this summer's controversy - but it doesn't need too many poor performances for people to stop talking about confidence, and start talking about arrogance. The winger must avoid giving them that chance.
Kevin Nolan (Bolton Wanderers)
It's always the way, isn't it? Player performs well for months. Fans wonder why he doesn't get a look in at international level. Player keeps it up for a couple of seasons. Fans and newspapers wonder why he doesn't get a look in at international level. International manager admits that player is looking good. Player's form vanishes.
So it was with Kevin Nolan, who has turned 25 this summer, and taken the step from being a promising young talent to a senior professional who needs to show what he can do week in and week out. If he ever wants people to talk about him as an England prospect again, Nolan cannot afford to have another season where he scores just four league goals from his position as an attacking midfielder. If they want to stay at the right end of the table following Sam Allardyce's departure, Bolton can't afford him to have one either.
from football365.com
Aleksandr Hleb (Arsenal)
Has ever a man split the Arsenal fans more? One grumpy Gooner in F365 Towers uses no adjective other than 'rancid' for Alex Bread, but any time that opinion makes its way onto the site itself it kicks off a frenzy of Emirates bickering.
The fact is, Hleb has looked a decent prospect at times, but he blimmin' well should do - he cost the best part of £10m quid. He's now entering his third full season with Arsenal, and the departure of Freddie Ljungberg means he's the biggest-name winger they have - whether you think it's his best position or not. Will he rise to the challenge, or will his failings be further exposed?
Stiliyan Petrov (Aston Villa)
The Aston Villa fans expected big things from Stiliyan Petrov when he arrived from Celtic last summer, and his debut against West Ham suggested he would deliver. The Bulgarian ran the game, his performance peaking with a sublime chip over Roy Carroll...that was cleared off the line. Would things have been different if it had gone in?
As it was, Petrov struggled desperately through Villa's winter of discontent. Even the normally loyal Martin O'Neill expressed concern over the time it had taken him to settle. Towards the end of the season, though, he began to show real signs of improvement, and played a key part in Villa's final nine-game unbeaten run. After a full pre-season, he needs to produce (and better) that end-of-season form for a full campaign. Otherwise he'll just be another player who shone in the SPL but wasn't good enough south of the border.
Gary McSheffrey (Birmingham City)
Eyebrows were raised when Birmingham forked out £4m on Coventry's Gary McSheffrey - in Championship terms, that's a lot of money. But the ends justify the means...McSheffrey's 13 goals were a vital part of the Blues' run to promotion. Overshadowed at first by the form of Nicklas Bendtner, he quickly established himself as the key man at St Andrews, whether playing wide left or up front.
Will he be able to carry that form into the Premier League? Natural skill can see you get away with being a bit small and a bit slow in the lower leagues (everybody wave to Lee Trundle), but can often see players shown up when they make the step up to the big time. McSheffrey was the Premier League's youngest player when he made his debut as a 16-year-old for Coventry back in 1999, in a 4-1 win over Villa. He could make even more friends in one side of Birmingham if he inspires the same this year.
David Bentley (Blackburn Rovers)
Refusing to play for your country's Under-21 side because you're planning on being a fixture in the senior squad a year later is a hell of a gamble. It's a gamble that's in Bentley's hands, though; if he shines this season everyone will hail his foresight. If he looks good, and it comes down to a choice between him and, say, Aaron Lennon for a spot at Euro 2008, the England management might not look too kindly on his decision. If he doesn't perform, he'll be a laughing stock.
Bentley clearly has the potential to be a very good player, and he clearly has the confidence to go with it - demanding a move from Arsenal because he felt he was good enough to play first-team football had proved that even before this summer's controversy - but it doesn't need too many poor performances for people to stop talking about confidence, and start talking about arrogance. The winger must avoid giving them that chance.
Kevin Nolan (Bolton Wanderers)
It's always the way, isn't it? Player performs well for months. Fans wonder why he doesn't get a look in at international level. Player keeps it up for a couple of seasons. Fans and newspapers wonder why he doesn't get a look in at international level. International manager admits that player is looking good. Player's form vanishes.
So it was with Kevin Nolan, who has turned 25 this summer, and taken the step from being a promising young talent to a senior professional who needs to show what he can do week in and week out. If he ever wants people to talk about him as an England prospect again, Nolan cannot afford to have another season where he scores just four league goals from his position as an attacking midfielder. If they want to stay at the right end of the table following Sam Allardyce's departure, Bolton can't afford him to have one either.
from football365.com
Pre Season Friendlies : Man United
Tue 17 July v Urawa Red Diamonds (a)
Thur 20 July v FC Seoul (a)
Mon 23 July v Shenzhen FC (a)
Fri 27 July v Guangzhou Pharmaceutical (a)
NA yet
Thur 20 July v FC Seoul (a)
Mon 23 July v Shenzhen FC (a)
Fri 27 July v Guangzhou Pharmaceutical (a)
NA yet
Pre Season Friendlies : Liverpool
Fri 20 July v Auxerre (a)
Tue 24 July v South China FC (a)
Fri 27 July v Portsmouth (a)
N.A
Tue 24 July v South China FC (a)
Fri 27 July v Portsmouth (a)
N.A
Pre Season Friendlies : Chelsea
14 July Chelsea vs Club America
17 July Chelsea vs Samsung Bluewings
21 July Chelsea vs LA Galaxy
17 July Chelsea vs Samsung Bluewings
21 July Chelsea vs LA Galaxy
Thursday, 26 July 2007
Kaka has a younger brother. He is in AC Milan too!
Kaka’s younger brother Rodrigo Leite aka Digao has officially joined the squad.
The 21-year-old defender trained for Milan for the first time yesterday, along side his older brother and boyhood idol Paolo Maldini.
Milan had signed the lanky defender in 2005, but immediately sent him on loan to gain experience at Rimini.
Liverpool's New Stadium Plans Announced
Liverpool have revealed plans for a new 60,000 seater stadium at Stanley Park, which features an 18,000 capacity Kop Stand. The stadium will cost 300 million pounds.
Here below are a video of Rick Parry's comments about the new stadium and also the first look at the stadium structure itself.
Here below are a video of Rick Parry's comments about the new stadium and also the first look at the stadium structure itself.
Wednesday, 25 July 2007
FIFA World Rankings - July 2007
Top 20
Team / Pts / Movement From June
1 Brazil 1500 2
2 Argentina 1476 3
3 Italy 1368 -2
4 France 1357 -2
5 Germany 1311 -1
6 Netherlands 1195 3
7 Croatia 1192 4
8 Portugal 1146 -2
9 Spain 1144 -2
10 Mexico 1142 16
11 Czech Republic 1117 -1
12 England 1097 -4
13 Romania 1068 -1
14 USA 1036 2
15 Cameroon 979 -1
16 Greece 978 -1
17 Serbia 973 5
17 Ukraine 973 -4
19 Uruguay 949 11
20 Sweden 918 -3
Asia
Ranking / Zonal Ranking / Team / Pts / Movement
36 1 Japan 722 4
46 2 Iran 666 1
49 3 Australia 594 -1
54 4 Uzbekistan 526 4
58 5 Korea Republic 511 -7
61 6 Saudi Arabia 488 1
73 7 China PR 439 3
76 8 Oman 416 -2
80 9 Iraq 398 4
83 10 Qatar 387 2
88 11 Bahrain 366 12
94 12 Kuwait 339 -1
98 13 Jordan 332 -11
106 14 United Arab Emirates 311 -12
107 15 Thailand 293 15
113 16 Syria 261 1
115 17 Korea DPR 260 21
117 18 Vietnam 251 25
127 19 Indonesia 214 16
128 20 Hong Kong 212 -13
132 21 Singapore 185 -1
Team / Pts / Movement From June
1 Brazil 1500 2
2 Argentina 1476 3
3 Italy 1368 -2
4 France 1357 -2
5 Germany 1311 -1
6 Netherlands 1195 3
7 Croatia 1192 4
8 Portugal 1146 -2
9 Spain 1144 -2
10 Mexico 1142 16
11 Czech Republic 1117 -1
12 England 1097 -4
13 Romania 1068 -1
14 USA 1036 2
15 Cameroon 979 -1
16 Greece 978 -1
17 Serbia 973 5
17 Ukraine 973 -4
19 Uruguay 949 11
20 Sweden 918 -3
Asia
Ranking / Zonal Ranking / Team / Pts / Movement
36 1 Japan 722 4
46 2 Iran 666 1
49 3 Australia 594 -1
54 4 Uzbekistan 526 4
58 5 Korea Republic 511 -7
61 6 Saudi Arabia 488 1
73 7 China PR 439 3
76 8 Oman 416 -2
80 9 Iraq 398 4
83 10 Qatar 387 2
88 11 Bahrain 366 12
94 12 Kuwait 339 -1
98 13 Jordan 332 -11
106 14 United Arab Emirates 311 -12
107 15 Thailand 293 15
113 16 Syria 261 1
115 17 Korea DPR 260 21
117 18 Vietnam 251 25
127 19 Indonesia 214 16
128 20 Hong Kong 212 -13
132 21 Singapore 185 -1
UEFA Under 19 European Championships: Final Group Standings
Group A
Teams Pld W D L GF GA Pts
Spain 3 1 2 0 3 1 5
Greece 3 1 2 0 2 1 5
Portugal 3 1 1 1 3 2 4
Austria 3 0 1 2 1 5 1
Greece 1 - 0 Portugal
Austria 0 - 2 Spain
Spain 1 - 1 Portugal
Austria 1 - 1 Greece
Portugal 2 - 0 Austria
Spain 0 - 0 Greece
Group B
Teams Pld W D L GF GA Pts
Germany 3 2 1 0 7 5 7
France 3 1 2 0 6 3 5
Serbia 3 1 0 2 10 10 3
Russia 3 0 1 2 4 9 1
Matches
Germany 3 - 2 Russia
France 5 - 2 Serbia
Russia 2 - 6 Serbia
Germany 1 - 1 France
Serbia 2 - 3 Germany
Russia 0 - 0 France
Semi-finals
Germany vs Greece
Spain vs France
(0-0) Spain win 4-2 on penalties
Teams Pld W D L GF GA Pts
Spain 3 1 2 0 3 1 5
Greece 3 1 2 0 2 1 5
Portugal 3 1 1 1 3 2 4
Austria 3 0 1 2 1 5 1
Greece 1 - 0 Portugal
Austria 0 - 2 Spain
Spain 1 - 1 Portugal
Austria 1 - 1 Greece
Portugal 2 - 0 Austria
Spain 0 - 0 Greece
Group B
Teams Pld W D L GF GA Pts
Germany 3 2 1 0 7 5 7
France 3 1 2 0 6 3 5
Serbia 3 1 0 2 10 10 3
Russia 3 0 1 2 4 9 1
Matches
Germany 3 - 2 Russia
France 5 - 2 Serbia
Russia 2 - 6 Serbia
Germany 1 - 1 France
Serbia 2 - 3 Germany
Russia 0 - 0 France
Semi-finals
Germany vs Greece
Spain vs France
(0-0) Spain win 4-2 on penalties
Monday, 23 July 2007
New Kid at Man Utd Youth Team
Man United has recruited 9 year old Australian, Rhain Davis. He has been recruited to join MU's U-10 side. This happened after Rhain's grandfather sent a DVD of Rhain's abilities to MU's scouts.
Rhain has a British passport and an English-based grandfather, making his arrival in Britain that much easier.
"It's been brilliant so far. The best part has been meeting a lot of the players," said Rhain, after spending time with a host of his heroes such as Ronaldo and Wayne Rooney.
Rhain has a British passport and an English-based grandfather, making his arrival in Britain that much easier.
"It's been brilliant so far. The best part has been meeting a lot of the players," said Rhain, after spending time with a host of his heroes such as Ronaldo and Wayne Rooney.
Asian Cup 2007 Quarter Finals
Japan vs Australia
Penalty Shootout
Vietnam vs Iraq
Iran vs Korea Republic
Saudi Arabia vs Uzbekistan
Penalty Shootout
Vietnam vs Iraq
Iran vs Korea Republic
Saudi Arabia vs Uzbekistan
Friday, 20 July 2007
Goal.com: Asian Cup Team of the Group Stages
GK – Yasser Al Mosailem (Saudi Arabia) Three solid performances from the 23 year-old gave the Saudi team the platform to score seven and finish top of Group D.
DF- Michael Beauchamp (Australia) Only paid one game but shored up a hitherto chaotic Australian back-line when it was needed most against Thailand and also scored the vital first goal to get his team on the way.
DF- Yuji Nakazawa (Japan) Always solid, always classy. Japan fans everywhere are delighted that 'Bomberhead' came out of international retirement.
DF- Hunyh Quang Thanh (Vietnam) Strong in the tackle, quick going forward, had a tough time against Japan but that’s no disgrace. Also scored a vital goal against UAE.
DF -Suree Sukha (Thailand) The best right-back in the competition so far. Solid at the back but it is going forward that the right-back created lots of problems for Thailand’s Group A opponents.
MF Javad Nekounam (Iran) Iran were up and down in Group C. Nekounam was too –up and down the pitch as he holds Iran’s midfield together. A class act.
MF-Shunsuke Nakamura (Japan) His goal against Vietnam was the best of the competition so far. His crossing and passing have been a joy to behold.
MF-Nashat Akram (Iraq) Supposedly a Sunderland target and Australia’s Premier League contingent won’t want to see him in England next season and the skilful and intelligent midfielder ran the game as Iraq defeated the Socceroos 3-1.
MF-Yasuhito Endo (Japan) Divides opinion in Japan, but Endo has carried his good form from the J-League into steady and solid performances in south-east Asia.
FW: Sebastian Quintana (Qatar) Three goals in three games. They were all vital goals and demonstrated the range of abilities he has. Fortunately for Asian defences, Qatar couldn’t make the knockout stage.
FW: Maksim Shatskikh (Uzbekistan) Two games and three goals. The Dinamo Kiev striker is as ruthless as they come in Asian football and with him in their ranks, the Uzbeks can never be counted out.
Subs: Malek Maaz, Yasser Al Qahtani (Saudi Arabia) Tim Cahill, (Australia) Kim Sang-shik (South Korea), Bambang Pamungkas, Firman Utina (Indonesia) Naohiro Takahara (Japan)
From Goal.com
DF- Michael Beauchamp (Australia) Only paid one game but shored up a hitherto chaotic Australian back-line when it was needed most against Thailand and also scored the vital first goal to get his team on the way.
DF- Yuji Nakazawa (Japan) Always solid, always classy. Japan fans everywhere are delighted that 'Bomberhead' came out of international retirement.
DF- Hunyh Quang Thanh (Vietnam) Strong in the tackle, quick going forward, had a tough time against Japan but that’s no disgrace. Also scored a vital goal against UAE.
DF -Suree Sukha (Thailand) The best right-back in the competition so far. Solid at the back but it is going forward that the right-back created lots of problems for Thailand’s Group A opponents.
MF Javad Nekounam (Iran) Iran were up and down in Group C. Nekounam was too –up and down the pitch as he holds Iran’s midfield together. A class act.
MF-Shunsuke Nakamura (Japan) His goal against Vietnam was the best of the competition so far. His crossing and passing have been a joy to behold.
MF-Nashat Akram (Iraq) Supposedly a Sunderland target and Australia’s Premier League contingent won’t want to see him in England next season and the skilful and intelligent midfielder ran the game as Iraq defeated the Socceroos 3-1.
MF-Yasuhito Endo (Japan) Divides opinion in Japan, but Endo has carried his good form from the J-League into steady and solid performances in south-east Asia.
FW: Sebastian Quintana (Qatar) Three goals in three games. They were all vital goals and demonstrated the range of abilities he has. Fortunately for Asian defences, Qatar couldn’t make the knockout stage.
FW: Maksim Shatskikh (Uzbekistan) Two games and three goals. The Dinamo Kiev striker is as ruthless as they come in Asian football and with him in their ranks, the Uzbeks can never be counted out.
Subs: Malek Maaz, Yasser Al Qahtani (Saudi Arabia) Tim Cahill, (Australia) Kim Sang-shik (South Korea), Bambang Pamungkas, Firman Utina (Indonesia) Naohiro Takahara (Japan)
From Goal.com
Asian Cup 2007 Quarter Final Draw
21/7/07
My Dinh National Stadium, Hanoi, VIE
Japan vs Australia
Rajamangala National Stadium, Bangkok, THA
Iraq vs Vietnam
22/7/07
National Stadium Bukit Jalil, Kuala Lumpur, MAS
Iran vs Korea Republic
Gelora Bung Karno Stadium, Jakarta, IDN
Saudi Arabia vs Uzbekistan
My Dinh National Stadium, Hanoi, VIE
Japan vs Australia
Rajamangala National Stadium, Bangkok, THA
Iraq vs Vietnam
22/7/07
National Stadium Bukit Jalil, Kuala Lumpur, MAS
Iran vs Korea Republic
Gelora Bung Karno Stadium, Jakarta, IDN
Saudi Arabia vs Uzbekistan
Asian Cup 2007
Group C
Malaysia vs Iran
China vs Uzbekistan
P W D L F A Pts
Iran 3 2 1 0 6 3 7
Uzbekistan 3 2 0 1 9 2 6
China 3 1 1 1 7 6 4
Malaysia 3 0 0 3 1 12 0
Group D
Indonesia vs Korea Republic
Saudi Arabia vs Bahrain
P W D L F A Pts
Saudi Arabia 3 2 1 0 7 2 7
Korea Republic 3 1 1 1 3 3 4
Indonesia 3 1 0 2 3 4 3
Bahrain 3 1 0 2 3 7 3
Malaysia vs Iran
China vs Uzbekistan
P W D L F A Pts
Iran 3 2 1 0 6 3 7
Uzbekistan 3 2 0 1 9 2 6
China 3 1 1 1 7 6 4
Malaysia 3 0 0 3 1 12 0
Group D
Indonesia vs Korea Republic
Saudi Arabia vs Bahrain
P W D L F A Pts
Saudi Arabia 3 2 1 0 7 2 7
Korea Republic 3 1 1 1 3 3 4
Indonesia 3 1 0 2 3 4 3
Bahrain 3 1 0 2 3 7 3
Wednesday, 18 July 2007
Asian Watch
Man City is reportedly interested in Thai keeper Kosin Hathairattanakool. Remember, Thaksin is the owner of the club. Kosin, 25, earns £150-a-week as a professional in Thailand.
Iraq captain Younis Mahmood has revealed that he has been approached by numerous European clubs. "I spoke to Sunderland two months ago. They asked me but I have a problem and because of my family I will not go. Marseille and Lille also spoke with me but my family are in Iraq. I want to take them out but my father likes it there and won't go. Maybe next year I will move."
Reading is considerind adding another South Korean to its playing staff. They are monitoring forward Lee Chun Soo.
Leicester has signed Iran international winger Hoessein Kaebi on a two-year contract. The 21-year-old becomes City boss Martin Allen's ninth new signing since he took charge.
HChina's Yu Dabao has been promoted to the Benfica senior squad for preseason. Yu joined Benfica last season and his progress has won him a place in coach Fernando Santos' senior squad for preseason training.
Iraq captain Younis Mahmood has revealed that he has been approached by numerous European clubs. "I spoke to Sunderland two months ago. They asked me but I have a problem and because of my family I will not go. Marseille and Lille also spoke with me but my family are in Iraq. I want to take them out but my father likes it there and won't go. Maybe next year I will move."
Reading is considerind adding another South Korean to its playing staff. They are monitoring forward Lee Chun Soo.
Leicester has signed Iran international winger Hoessein Kaebi on a two-year contract. The 21-year-old becomes City boss Martin Allen's ninth new signing since he took charge.
HChina's Yu Dabao has been promoted to the Benfica senior squad for preseason. Yu joined Benfica last season and his progress has won him a place in coach Fernando Santos' senior squad for preseason training.
Latest Major Transfers
England
7/17/2007 Geovanni Cruzeiro to Manchester City
7/17/2007 D. Etuhu Norwich to Sunderland
7/17/2007 M. Harewood West Ham to Aston Villa
7/16/2007 K. Richardson Man Utd. to Sunderland
7/13/2007 P. Konchesky West Ham to Fulham
7/13/2007 D. Healy Leeds to Fulham
7/13/2007 M. Chopra Cardiff City to Sunderland
7/12/2007 B. Sagna AJ Auxerre to Arsenal
7/12/2007 Y. Benayoun West Ham to Liverpool
7/12/2007 C. Baird Southampton to Fulham
7/11/2007 J. Utaka Stade Rennais to FC Portsmouth
7/11/2007 D. Nugent Preston to Portsmouth
7/11/2007 R. Babel Ajax to Liverpool
Italy
7/17/2007 L. Giuly Barcelona to Roma
7/13/2007 V. Montella Roma to Sampdoria Loan
7/11/2007 M. Taibi Torino to Ascoli
7/11/2007 P. Foggia Lazio to Cagliari
Germany
7/17/2007 Ewerthon Zaragoza to VfB Stuttgart
Spain
7/17/2007 P. García Real Madrid to Murcia Loan
7/14/2007 R. Ayala Valencia to Zaragoza
7/13/2007 J. Saviola Barcelona to Real Madrid
7/12/2007 K. Boulahrouz Chelsea to Sevilla Loan
7/12/2007 J. Dudek Liverpool to Real Madrid
Greece
7/13/2007 Raúl Bravo Real Madrid to Olympiakos
Scotland
7/12/2007 L. McCulloch Wigan Athletic to Rangers
Holland
7/11/2007 S. Rajkovic Chelsea to PSV Loan
7/17/2007 Geovanni Cruzeiro to Manchester City
7/17/2007 D. Etuhu Norwich to Sunderland
7/17/2007 M. Harewood West Ham to Aston Villa
7/16/2007 K. Richardson Man Utd. to Sunderland
7/13/2007 P. Konchesky West Ham to Fulham
7/13/2007 D. Healy Leeds to Fulham
7/13/2007 M. Chopra Cardiff City to Sunderland
7/12/2007 B. Sagna AJ Auxerre to Arsenal
7/12/2007 Y. Benayoun West Ham to Liverpool
7/12/2007 C. Baird Southampton to Fulham
7/11/2007 J. Utaka Stade Rennais to FC Portsmouth
7/11/2007 D. Nugent Preston to Portsmouth
7/11/2007 R. Babel Ajax to Liverpool
Italy
7/17/2007 L. Giuly Barcelona to Roma
7/13/2007 V. Montella Roma to Sampdoria Loan
7/11/2007 M. Taibi Torino to Ascoli
7/11/2007 P. Foggia Lazio to Cagliari
Germany
7/17/2007 Ewerthon Zaragoza to VfB Stuttgart
Spain
7/17/2007 P. García Real Madrid to Murcia Loan
7/14/2007 R. Ayala Valencia to Zaragoza
7/13/2007 J. Saviola Barcelona to Real Madrid
7/12/2007 K. Boulahrouz Chelsea to Sevilla Loan
7/12/2007 J. Dudek Liverpool to Real Madrid
Greece
7/13/2007 Raúl Bravo Real Madrid to Olympiakos
Scotland
7/12/2007 L. McCulloch Wigan Athletic to Rangers
Holland
7/11/2007 S. Rajkovic Chelsea to PSV Loan
Friendly Tournament: Peace Cup 2007 Group B
Group B
Reading vs Lyon
River Plate vs Shimizu S Pulse
Group B
Team Pts Pld W D L GF GA GD
River Plate 6 2 2 0 0 2 0 2
Lyon 3 2 1 0 1 2 1 1
Reading 3 2 1 0 1 1 1 0
Shimizu S-Pulse 0 2 0 0 2 0 3 -3
Reading vs Lyon
River Plate vs Shimizu S Pulse
Group B
Team Pts Pld W D L GF GA GD
River Plate 6 2 2 0 0 2 0 2
Lyon 3 2 1 0 1 2 1 1
Reading 3 2 1 0 1 1 1 0
Shimizu S-Pulse 0 2 0 0 2 0 3 -3
Friendly Tournament: Peace Cup 2007 Group A
Group A
Seongnam Ilhwa vs Racing Santander
(0-0)
Bolton vs Chivas
(2-0)
Racing Santander vs Bolton
Chivas vs Seongnam Ilhwa
Team Pts Pld W D L GF GA GD
Bolton Wanderers 7 3 2 1 0 5 2 3
Chivas de Guadalajara 6 3 2 0 1 6 2 4
Seongnam Ilhwa Chunma 2 3 0 2 1 1 2 -1
Racing Santander 1 3 0 1 2 1 7 -6
Seongnam Ilhwa vs Racing Santander
(0-0)
Bolton vs Chivas
(2-0)
Racing Santander vs Bolton
Chivas vs Seongnam Ilhwa
Team Pts Pld W D L GF GA GD
Bolton Wanderers 7 3 2 1 0 5 2 3
Chivas de Guadalajara 6 3 2 0 1 6 2 4
Seongnam Ilhwa Chunma 2 3 0 2 1 1 2 -1
Racing Santander 1 3 0 1 2 1 7 -6
Asian Cup 2007
Group A
Iraq vs Oman
Thailand vs Australia
P W D L F A Pts
Iraq 3 1 2 0 4 2 5
Australia 3 1 1 1 6 4 4
Thailand 3 1 1 1 3 5 4
Oman 3 0 2 1 1 3 2
Group B
Vietnam vs Japan
UAE vs Qatar
P W D L F A Pts
Japan 3 2 1 0 8 3 7
Vietnam 3 1 1 1 4 5 4
UAE 3 1 0 2 3 6 3
Qatar 3 0 2 1 3 4 2
Iraq vs Oman
Thailand vs Australia
P W D L F A Pts
Iraq 3 1 2 0 4 2 5
Australia 3 1 1 1 6 4 4
Thailand 3 1 1 1 3 5 4
Oman 3 0 2 1 1 3 2
Group B
Vietnam vs Japan
UAE vs Qatar
P W D L F A Pts
Japan 3 2 1 0 8 3 7
Vietnam 3 1 1 1 4 5 4
UAE 3 1 0 2 3 6 3
Qatar 3 0 2 1 3 4 2
Monday, 16 July 2007
Copa America Final Review: Brazil 3-0 Argentina
Here was how we see the match went down. Argentina lost not because of their lack of quality...duh...Individually, Argentina had the best team in the competition but in this final, the reasons for thier loss was tactical and also effort. The boys from Brazil just wanted it more. Lets look at how the teams set up.
Brazil played a 4-5-1 system. Alex and Juan make up the central defence while Gilberto and Maicon are the fullbacks. The difference maker was in Brazil's midfield set-up. Gilberto Silva, who was suspended was replaced by Josue. He came in to form a defensive central midfield pairing with Mineiro. The two of them were used as sweepers behind the three attacking midfielders. They are Robinho(left), Baptista(centre) and Elano(right). Elano was to get injured and replaced by Daniel Alves who played the exact role. Up front, Wagner Love led the line for the Brazillians.
This is just our opinion but i think Argentina played the exact same system. Milito and Ayala was flanked by Heinze and Zanetti at the back. Playing in front of them are Mascherano and Cambiasso. Tevez led the creative trio of Messi, Riquelme and Veron.
So why Brazil won and Argentina lost. Lets observed it tactically. Argentina came out as favourites and like favourites, their game plan was to attack at Brazil. We cant really fault them because they are an attacking team. That was what thier good at. What spoilt their party was that Brazil had set out to frustrate the Argentinians. Thier plan was to defend with numbers and counter with speed and directness. It worked out perfectly for them.
Argentina was like a team where "too many cooks spoil the broth" They had to many players having a creative free role it seems. Veron, Messi and Riquelme were all trying to create and to us, got in each others ways. They were trying to play pretty short passing football, going for the perfect goal. They were not direct enough with their play. Most of thier attacks were broken down. There was not much width in their play especially on the left. Veron and Riquelme usually floats around in the middle. They were too narrow in thier approach, trying to play through the centre. Another factor could be the choice of using Carlos Tevez as the lone man upfront. Why didnt they used Crespo? Why not drop Veron, place Tevez down the right with Messi down the left. Crespo would do better against the big boys of Alex and Juan. Thrpughout the match, Tevez was outmuscled. Crespo had an injury but he was fit and cleared to play.
Dunga got it right big time. The two defensive midfielders and the two central defenders dominated in their zones. It helped that Argentina were playing into thier hands by coming from the middle. Dunga set out his team much like the team of World Cup 1994, strong defensively and lethal in the counter. Back then they had a Bebeto, Rai and Romario to do the damage. And he drew in his playing experience for this game. Brazil defended stoutly in numbers and in their respective zones. Everytime they lose the ball, 11 yellow shirts get behind it. They let Argentina enter their half before applyinh pressure, not allowing space and time for the Argentinians. It was good to see Love and Robinho tracking back into their zonal defending positions. Brazil were very disciplined in their defensive duties. I wonder if Kaka and ROnaldinho were present, will they get that same defensive discipline, i doubt so.
Dunga set out his team to defend and strike with pace on the counter. Against an aging and slow backline of Argentina, it was a great idea. Brazil had willing runners with pace with the likes of Alves, Robinho and Maicon. They did not play tick tock football. Once regain possession, they looked to attack directly with pace, not allowing the opposition to regroup. Direct counter attacking football were the catalyst for all three goals. Let us look at the goals.
Brazil won it in midfield. Simple direct long ball behind the defence. We think Roberto Ayala should be analysed here. Why was he far behind his defensive line? HWy wasnt he in line with his partner Milito? A simple long ball. We think that Ayala could have done more to get to the ball first. Its not as though he was sprinting for that long ball. Baptista was also to us, given too much time and space. The fatal error obviously there was to let him shift it onto this right leg. But then again we are here and not on the field. HAHA
Second goal came from a neat one two down the right flank which released Maicon whose cross was steered into his own net by Ayala. A torrid final for him. The key here was pace and directness. A straightforward give-and-go fused with the pacy off the ball movement by the mobile Brazillians unlocked Argentina's defence. Watch Argentina's midfield during that give-and-go. Three midfielders were drawn to the ball, allowing space for Maicon on the right. Yes u can argue Ayala could have let it go for Abondanzieri but there is Wagner Love within striking distance as well. I dont think he had a shout from the keeper either.
The last goal summed up Brazil's game plan of the day. Off the poor free kick by Riquelme, three passes opened Argentina up. Robinho to Love. Love ran at Argentina's defence. They kept backing up allowing him to run. Should have just fouled him. Why? The last two players in defence for Argentina was Riquelme and Mascherano. It was worth the foul. Riquelme's lack of defensive awareness in such situations were paarent to all as Dani Alves just ghosted in behind him to slot the ball home. Pace..Direct..Simple..That was the name of the game for Brazil in this game.
Besides the tactical aspect, it was clear that Brazil wanted it more and worked harder for it. They got behind the ball everytime they lost it. They won the 2nd balls and were more committed to their challenges. Argentina looked labored and lack movement. Messi was seen at times just walking and ball watching. Maybe the media hype has got to they boy's head. Brazil put in the effort and was duely rewarded. The tags of underdogs did not apply any pressure on the Samba Boys. Argentina felt the heat of being overwhelming favourites and crumbled under the weight of expectancy.
Brazil played a 4-5-1 system. Alex and Juan make up the central defence while Gilberto and Maicon are the fullbacks. The difference maker was in Brazil's midfield set-up. Gilberto Silva, who was suspended was replaced by Josue. He came in to form a defensive central midfield pairing with Mineiro. The two of them were used as sweepers behind the three attacking midfielders. They are Robinho(left), Baptista(centre) and Elano(right). Elano was to get injured and replaced by Daniel Alves who played the exact role. Up front, Wagner Love led the line for the Brazillians.
This is just our opinion but i think Argentina played the exact same system. Milito and Ayala was flanked by Heinze and Zanetti at the back. Playing in front of them are Mascherano and Cambiasso. Tevez led the creative trio of Messi, Riquelme and Veron.
So why Brazil won and Argentina lost. Lets observed it tactically. Argentina came out as favourites and like favourites, their game plan was to attack at Brazil. We cant really fault them because they are an attacking team. That was what thier good at. What spoilt their party was that Brazil had set out to frustrate the Argentinians. Thier plan was to defend with numbers and counter with speed and directness. It worked out perfectly for them.
Argentina was like a team where "too many cooks spoil the broth" They had to many players having a creative free role it seems. Veron, Messi and Riquelme were all trying to create and to us, got in each others ways. They were trying to play pretty short passing football, going for the perfect goal. They were not direct enough with their play. Most of thier attacks were broken down. There was not much width in their play especially on the left. Veron and Riquelme usually floats around in the middle. They were too narrow in thier approach, trying to play through the centre. Another factor could be the choice of using Carlos Tevez as the lone man upfront. Why didnt they used Crespo? Why not drop Veron, place Tevez down the right with Messi down the left. Crespo would do better against the big boys of Alex and Juan. Thrpughout the match, Tevez was outmuscled. Crespo had an injury but he was fit and cleared to play.
Dunga got it right big time. The two defensive midfielders and the two central defenders dominated in their zones. It helped that Argentina were playing into thier hands by coming from the middle. Dunga set out his team much like the team of World Cup 1994, strong defensively and lethal in the counter. Back then they had a Bebeto, Rai and Romario to do the damage. And he drew in his playing experience for this game. Brazil defended stoutly in numbers and in their respective zones. Everytime they lose the ball, 11 yellow shirts get behind it. They let Argentina enter their half before applyinh pressure, not allowing space and time for the Argentinians. It was good to see Love and Robinho tracking back into their zonal defending positions. Brazil were very disciplined in their defensive duties. I wonder if Kaka and ROnaldinho were present, will they get that same defensive discipline, i doubt so.
Dunga set out his team to defend and strike with pace on the counter. Against an aging and slow backline of Argentina, it was a great idea. Brazil had willing runners with pace with the likes of Alves, Robinho and Maicon. They did not play tick tock football. Once regain possession, they looked to attack directly with pace, not allowing the opposition to regroup. Direct counter attacking football were the catalyst for all three goals. Let us look at the goals.
Brazil won it in midfield. Simple direct long ball behind the defence. We think Roberto Ayala should be analysed here. Why was he far behind his defensive line? HWy wasnt he in line with his partner Milito? A simple long ball. We think that Ayala could have done more to get to the ball first. Its not as though he was sprinting for that long ball. Baptista was also to us, given too much time and space. The fatal error obviously there was to let him shift it onto this right leg. But then again we are here and not on the field. HAHA
Second goal came from a neat one two down the right flank which released Maicon whose cross was steered into his own net by Ayala. A torrid final for him. The key here was pace and directness. A straightforward give-and-go fused with the pacy off the ball movement by the mobile Brazillians unlocked Argentina's defence. Watch Argentina's midfield during that give-and-go. Three midfielders were drawn to the ball, allowing space for Maicon on the right. Yes u can argue Ayala could have let it go for Abondanzieri but there is Wagner Love within striking distance as well. I dont think he had a shout from the keeper either.
The last goal summed up Brazil's game plan of the day. Off the poor free kick by Riquelme, three passes opened Argentina up. Robinho to Love. Love ran at Argentina's defence. They kept backing up allowing him to run. Should have just fouled him. Why? The last two players in defence for Argentina was Riquelme and Mascherano. It was worth the foul. Riquelme's lack of defensive awareness in such situations were paarent to all as Dani Alves just ghosted in behind him to slot the ball home. Pace..Direct..Simple..That was the name of the game for Brazil in this game.
Besides the tactical aspect, it was clear that Brazil wanted it more and worked harder for it. They got behind the ball everytime they lost it. They won the 2nd balls and were more committed to their challenges. Argentina looked labored and lack movement. Messi was seen at times just walking and ball watching. Maybe the media hype has got to they boy's head. Brazil put in the effort and was duely rewarded. The tags of underdogs did not apply any pressure on the Samba Boys. Argentina felt the heat of being overwhelming favourites and crumbled under the weight of expectancy.
Sunday, 15 July 2007
Friendlies
Barnet vs Arsenal
Crewe vs Liverpool
Doncaster vs Man. City (Sven's first game)
Yeovil vs Portsmouth
Dagenham vs West Ham
Other Results:
Middlesbrough 0-3 Schalke
Bury 0-1 Everton
Preston 0-2 Everton
Stafford Rangers 1-1 Derby County
Crewe vs Liverpool
Doncaster vs Man. City (Sven's first game)
Yeovil vs Portsmouth
Dagenham vs West Ham
Other Results:
Middlesbrough 0-3 Schalke
Bury 0-1 Everton
Preston 0-2 Everton
Stafford Rangers 1-1 Derby County
Copa America Final Preview : Brazil vs Argentina
For the complete match preview go here
http://www.goal.com/en/articolo.aspx?contenutoid=353042
Copa America Final
Tonight at 5am
Supersports Channel
http://www.goal.com/en/articolo.aspx?contenutoid=353042
Copa America Final
Tonight at 5am
Supersports Channel
Saturday, 14 July 2007
18 YARD BOX FORUMS
We are in the midst of creating our own little forum page. Everyone can now go there and register with it but there isnt any content yet. It should be up within the next few days.
You can access the forum at the My Links section on the right side of the blog or go to http://18yb.proboards83.com/
You can access the forum at the My Links section on the right side of the blog or go to http://18yb.proboards83.com/
2007/2008 Football Kits....In Video!!!
It shows almost all English clubs...so some jerseys wont be recognisable i.e lower leagues.
Pre Season Friendlies: Peace Cup 2007
Group A
Seongnam Ilhwa vs Bolton Wanderers
Chivas Guadalajara vs Racing Santander(green)
Group B
Reading vs River Plate
Shimizu S Pulse vs Lyon
Seongnam Ilhwa vs Bolton Wanderers
Chivas Guadalajara vs Racing Santander(green)
Group B
Reading vs River Plate
Shimizu S Pulse vs Lyon
Liverpool's New Signings
Liverpool have signed Yossi Benayoun from West Ham and Ryan Babel from Ajax.
Benayoun signs on a contract that will keep him at Anfield until 2011. The Israeli international reportedly cost Liverpool 5 million pounds. This after he refused to sign a new contract for West Ham after being told of Liverpool's interest.
Babel, fresh from winning the under 23 European Championships with Holland, costs Liverpool 11.5 million pounds. He signs on a 5 year deal with the Reds.
Babel will wear the number 19 shirt at Anfield with Benayoun taking over the number 11 jersey. Here are some clips from both individuals.
Ryan Babel
Yossi Benayoun
Benayoun signs on a contract that will keep him at Anfield until 2011. The Israeli international reportedly cost Liverpool 5 million pounds. This after he refused to sign a new contract for West Ham after being told of Liverpool's interest.
Babel, fresh from winning the under 23 European Championships with Holland, costs Liverpool 11.5 million pounds. He signs on a 5 year deal with the Reds.
Babel will wear the number 19 shirt at Anfield with Benayoun taking over the number 11 jersey. Here are some clips from both individuals.
Ryan Babel
Yossi Benayoun
FIFA Under 20 World Cup - Quarter Final Draw
Austria vs USA
Spain vs Czech Republic
Chile vs Nigeria
Argentina vs Mexico
Spain vs Czech Republic
Chile vs Nigeria
Argentina vs Mexico
Friday, 13 July 2007
FIFA Under 20 World Cup - Round of 16 Results
Chile(red) vs Portugal
Zambia vs Nigeria(green)
Argentina vs Poland(white)
Mexico vs Congo
Zambia vs Nigeria(green)
Argentina vs Poland(white)
Mexico vs Congo
Asian Cup 2007
Group A
Thailand vs Oman
Iraq vs Australia
Group B
Vietnam vs Qatar
UAE vs Japan (uploaded later, 1-3)
Thailand vs Oman
Iraq vs Australia
Group B
Vietnam vs Qatar
UAE vs Japan (uploaded later, 1-3)
Babel joins Liverpool
In a statement on Ajax's website, 'The attacker (Babel), who had a contract at Ajax up to July 1 2010, has signed an agreement for five years with the Champions League finalists,'
The deal is expected to be worth 11.5 million pounds.
The deal is expected to be worth 11.5 million pounds.
Thursday, 12 July 2007
New Defender for Arsenal
Arsenal have confirmed that they have completed the signing of Auxerre full-back Bacary Sagna for an undisclosed fee.
Arsene Wenger confirmed to Arsenal’s official website: “He is a very capable defender and has played consistently well for Auxerre in recent seasons. He plays mainly at right-back, but can also play along the defence or in midfield. He is strong and quick.”
Sagna: “It's amazing. If someone had told me that one day I would be an Arsenal player I would not have believed him. I am very happy for my family, my friends and also for my future. It is really a positive move. I think this is one of the best English sides, the one that plays the best football."
"We have the youth card and the fact that no one really rates us means that maybe we can surprise people. The young players want to prove what they can do and I want to prove what I can do. And all of this together will help us have a good season, I hope.”
Arsene Wenger confirmed to Arsenal’s official website: “He is a very capable defender and has played consistently well for Auxerre in recent seasons. He plays mainly at right-back, but can also play along the defence or in midfield. He is strong and quick.”
Sagna: “It's amazing. If someone had told me that one day I would be an Arsenal player I would not have believed him. I am very happy for my family, my friends and also for my future. It is really a positive move. I think this is one of the best English sides, the one that plays the best football."
"We have the youth card and the fact that no one really rates us means that maybe we can surprise people. The young players want to prove what they can do and I want to prove what I can do. And all of this together will help us have a good season, I hope.”
Latest Major Transfers
Spain
7/12/2007 J. Dudek Liverpool to Real Madrid
7/11/2007 G. Milito Zaragoza to Barcelona
7/11/2007 J. Guardado Atlas to Deportivo
7/11/2007 S. Keita RC Lens to Sevilla
7/10/2007 J. Tomasson VfB Stuttgart to Villarreal
7/9/2007 T. de Mul Ajax to Sevilla
7/10/2007 Pepe Porto to Real Madrid
7/9/2007 M. De Sanctis Udinese to Sevilla
Italy
7/11/2007 M. Taibi Torino to Ascoli
7/10/2007 Andrade Deportivo to Juventus
England
7/11/2007 D. Nugent Preston to Portsmouth
7/10/2007 T. Sinclair Manchester City to Cardiff City
7/10/2007 J. Gray Birmingham to Coventry
7/10/2007 J. Koumas West Bromwich to Wigan Athletic
7/10/2007 Mikel Alonso Real Sociedad to Bolton Loan
7/10/2007 M. Connolly Arsenal to Colchester City Loan
7/10/2007 D. Kamara West Bromwich to Fulham
7/10/2007 C. Bellamy Liverpool to West Ham
7/8/2007 F. Malouda O. Lyon to Chelsea
7/8/2007 A. Todd Blackburn to Derby Confirmed
France
7/8/2007 B. Zenden Liverpool to Olympique de Marseille
7/8/2007 D. Cisse Liverpool to Olympique de Marseille
7/12/2007 J. Dudek Liverpool to Real Madrid
7/11/2007 G. Milito Zaragoza to Barcelona
7/11/2007 J. Guardado Atlas to Deportivo
7/11/2007 S. Keita RC Lens to Sevilla
7/10/2007 J. Tomasson VfB Stuttgart to Villarreal
7/9/2007 T. de Mul Ajax to Sevilla
7/10/2007 Pepe Porto to Real Madrid
7/9/2007 M. De Sanctis Udinese to Sevilla
Italy
7/11/2007 M. Taibi Torino to Ascoli
7/10/2007 Andrade Deportivo to Juventus
England
7/11/2007 D. Nugent Preston to Portsmouth
7/10/2007 T. Sinclair Manchester City to Cardiff City
7/10/2007 J. Gray Birmingham to Coventry
7/10/2007 J. Koumas West Bromwich to Wigan Athletic
7/10/2007 Mikel Alonso Real Sociedad to Bolton Loan
7/10/2007 M. Connolly Arsenal to Colchester City Loan
7/10/2007 D. Kamara West Bromwich to Fulham
7/10/2007 C. Bellamy Liverpool to West Ham
7/8/2007 F. Malouda O. Lyon to Chelsea
7/8/2007 A. Todd Blackburn to Derby Confirmed
France
7/8/2007 B. Zenden Liverpool to Olympique de Marseille
7/8/2007 D. Cisse Liverpool to Olympique de Marseille
Pre Season Friendlies
Arsenal:
Sat 14 July v Barnet (a)
Thur 19 July v Genclerbirligi (n)
Wed 25 July v Salzburg (a)
Sat 28 July v PSG (h) Emirates Cup
Sun 29 July v Inter Milan (h) Emirates Cup
Thurs 2 Aug v Lazio (n) Amsterdam Tournament
Sat 4 Aug v Ajax (a) Amsterdam Tournament
Chelsea:
Sat 14 July v Club America (a)
Tues 17 July v Samsung Bluewings (a)
Sat 21 July v LA Galaxy (a)
Wed 25 July v Feyenoord (a)
Sat 28 July v Rangers (a)
Tue 31 July v Brondby (a)
Liverpool:
Sat 14 July v Crew Alexandra (a)
Tue 17 July v Werder Bremen (a)
Fri 20 July v Auxerre (a)
Tue 24 July v South China FC (a)
Fri 27 July v TBA (a)
Fri 3 Aug v Shanghai Shenhua (a)
Sun 5 Aug v Feyenoord (a)
Manchester United:
Tue 17 July v Urawa Red Diamonds (a)
Thur 20 July v FC Seoul (a)
Mon 23 July v Shenzhen FC (a)
Fri 27 July v Guangzhou Pharmaceutical (a)
Wed1 Aug v Inter Milan (h)
Tottenham Hotspur:
Thu 12 July v St Patrick (a)
Sat 21 July v Kaizer Cheifs (a)
Tue 24 July v Orlando Pirates (a)
Sat 28 July v TBC (a)
Wed 1 Aug v Leyton Orient (a)
Sat 4 Aug v Torino (h)
Sat 14 July v Barnet (a)
Thur 19 July v Genclerbirligi (n)
Wed 25 July v Salzburg (a)
Sat 28 July v PSG (h) Emirates Cup
Sun 29 July v Inter Milan (h) Emirates Cup
Thurs 2 Aug v Lazio (n) Amsterdam Tournament
Sat 4 Aug v Ajax (a) Amsterdam Tournament
Chelsea:
Sat 14 July v Club America (a)
Tues 17 July v Samsung Bluewings (a)
Sat 21 July v LA Galaxy (a)
Wed 25 July v Feyenoord (a)
Sat 28 July v Rangers (a)
Tue 31 July v Brondby (a)
Liverpool:
Sat 14 July v Crew Alexandra (a)
Tue 17 July v Werder Bremen (a)
Fri 20 July v Auxerre (a)
Tue 24 July v South China FC (a)
Fri 27 July v TBA (a)
Fri 3 Aug v Shanghai Shenhua (a)
Sun 5 Aug v Feyenoord (a)
Manchester United:
Tue 17 July v Urawa Red Diamonds (a)
Thur 20 July v FC Seoul (a)
Mon 23 July v Shenzhen FC (a)
Fri 27 July v Guangzhou Pharmaceutical (a)
Wed1 Aug v Inter Milan (h)
Tottenham Hotspur:
Thu 12 July v St Patrick (a)
Sat 21 July v Kaizer Cheifs (a)
Tue 24 July v Orlando Pirates (a)
Sat 28 July v TBC (a)
Wed 1 Aug v Leyton Orient (a)
Sat 4 Aug v Torino (h)
FIFA Under 20 World Cup - Round of 16 Results
Austria vs Gambia
USA vs Uruguay
Spain vs Brazil
Japan vs CZech Republic
USA vs Uruguay
Spain vs Brazil
Japan vs CZech Republic
Arsenal Pair Heading to Barcelona Next Season?
Reports in Spain has indicated that an Arsenal pairing is planning to move to Barcelona together next summer. Who are these two? Rumours have been going around that Arsene Wenger plans to move to Barcelona with his golden boy Cesc Fabregas. The plan was for Cesc to remain with Wenger this season and next summer, they will both move together to Spain.
Spanish newspaper, Marca believe that a deal has already been struck with the Catalan club. It is mentioned that such a deal was struck amidst negotiations for the transfer of Henry.
It is worth noting that Wenger's contract expires at the end of the new season and has dropped several hints that he will not be prolonging his stay.
Cesc is unlikely to be moving to Madrid due to his background. He was playing for Barca until he was 15 and most of his family and friends are supporters of Barcelona.
So you must be going, what will happen to Rijkaard? Rijkaard has for a long time being targeted by his old club, AC Milan.
Spanish newspaper, Marca believe that a deal has already been struck with the Catalan club. It is mentioned that such a deal was struck amidst negotiations for the transfer of Henry.
It is worth noting that Wenger's contract expires at the end of the new season and has dropped several hints that he will not be prolonging his stay.
Cesc is unlikely to be moving to Madrid due to his background. He was playing for Barca until he was 15 and most of his family and friends are supporters of Barcelona.
So you must be going, what will happen to Rijkaard? Rijkaard has for a long time being targeted by his old club, AC Milan.
Wednesday, 11 July 2007
Fantasy Premier League is Back!!!
We created a league for all u guys to join and compete against one another.
Go to fantasy.premierleague.com
League Code: 123055-28432
Invite all your other friends also.
Go to fantasy.premierleague.com
League Code: 123055-28432
Invite all your other friends also.
Tuesday, 10 July 2007
What Happens Next
A guy is about to take a penalty. What happens next?
a) Ball hits keeper in the face
b) Ball hits keeper in the balls
c) Ball hits post and goes in/out
d) Ball hits crossbar and goalposts collapsed
a) Ball hits keeper in the face
b) Ball hits keeper in the balls
c) Ball hits post and goes in/out
d) Ball hits crossbar and goalposts collapsed
Monday, 9 July 2007
S-League : Round 15 Results
Match 85
Thu 5 Jul 2007 Toa Payoh Stadium
Balestier Khalsa 2 vs 0 Korean Super Reds
BAL: Farizal Basri 44, 67
Match 86
Fri 6 Jul 2007 Jalan Besar Stadium
Albirex Niigata (S) 1 vs 2 Home United
ALB: Shahril Alias 74(og)
HOM: Shi Jiayi 88, Kengne Ludovick 13
Match 87
Sat 7 Jul 2007 Jurong West Stadium
Gombak United 0 vs 2 Woodlands Wellington
GOM: Obadin Aikhena sent off 88
WOO: Laakkad Abdelhadi 16, Ahmad Latiff 71
Match 88
Sat 7 Jul 2007 Jalan Besar Stadium
Young Lions 4 vs 1 Sengkang Punggol
YLS: Khairul Amri 18, 32, 33, Fazrul Nawaz 40, Noor Ikhsan sent off 90
SEN: Farhan Farook 63
Match 123
Wed 4 Jul 2007 Bedok Stadium
Geylang United 0 vs 1 Young Lions
YLS: Khairul Amri 33
Thu 5 Jul 2007 Toa Payoh Stadium
Balestier Khalsa 2 vs 0 Korean Super Reds
BAL: Farizal Basri 44, 67
Match 86
Fri 6 Jul 2007 Jalan Besar Stadium
Albirex Niigata (S) 1 vs 2 Home United
ALB: Shahril Alias 74(og)
HOM: Shi Jiayi 88, Kengne Ludovick 13
Match 87
Sat 7 Jul 2007 Jurong West Stadium
Gombak United 0 vs 2 Woodlands Wellington
GOM: Obadin Aikhena sent off 88
WOO: Laakkad Abdelhadi 16, Ahmad Latiff 71
Match 88
Sat 7 Jul 2007 Jalan Besar Stadium
Young Lions 4 vs 1 Sengkang Punggol
YLS: Khairul Amri 18, 32, 33, Fazrul Nawaz 40, Noor Ikhsan sent off 90
SEN: Farhan Farook 63
Match 123
Wed 4 Jul 2007 Bedok Stadium
Geylang United 0 vs 1 Young Lions
YLS: Khairul Amri 33
FIFA Under 20 World Cup - Round of 16 Draw
Round of 16
11-07-07
Austria vs Gambia
USA vs Uruguay
Spain vs Brazil
Japan vs Czech Republic
12-07-07
Chile vs Portugal
Zambia vs Nigeria
Argentina vs Poland
Mexico vs Congo
11-07-07
Austria vs Gambia
USA vs Uruguay
Spain vs Brazil
Japan vs Czech Republic
12-07-07
Chile vs Portugal
Zambia vs Nigeria
Argentina vs Poland
Mexico vs Congo
FIFA Under 20 World Cup Final Group Standings
Group A
MP W D L GF GA Pts
Chile 3 2 1 0 6 0 7
Austria 3 1 2 0 2 1 5
Congo 3 1 1 1 3 4 4
Canada 3 0 0 3 0 6 0
Canada 0:3 Chile
Congo 1:1 Austria
Austria 1:0 Canada
Chile 3:0 Congo
Canada 0:2 Congo
Chile 0:0 Austria
Group B
MP W D L GF GA Pts
Spain 3 2 1 0 8 5 7
Zambia 3 1 1 1 4 3 4
Uruguay 3 1 1 1 3 4 4
Jordan 3 0 1 2 3 6 1
Jordan 1:1 Zambia
Spain 2:2 Uruguay
Uruguay 1:0 Jordan
Zambia 1:2 Spain
Spain 4:2 Jordan
Uruguay 0:2 Zambia
Group C
MP W D L GF GA Pts
Mexico 3 3 0 0 7 2 9
Gambia 3 2 0 1 3 4 6
Portugal 3 1 0 2 4 4 3
New Zealand 3 0 0 3 1 5 0
Portugal 2:0 New Zealand
Gambia 0:3 Mexico
New Zealand 0:1 Gambia
Mexico 2:1 Portugal
Portugal 1:2 Gambia
New Zealand 1:2 Mexico
Group D
MP W D L GF GA Pts
USA 3 2 1 0 9 3 7
Poland 3 1 1 1 3 7 4
Brazil 3 1 0 2 4 5 3
Korea Republic 3 0 2 1 4 5 2
Poland 1:0 Brazil
Korea Republic 1:1 USA
USA 6:1 Poland
Brazil 3:2 Korea Republic
Brazil 1:2 USA
Poland 1:1 Korea Republic
Group E
MP W D L GF GA Pts
Argentina 3 2 1 0 7 0 7
Czech Republic 3 1 2 0 4 3 5
Korea DPR 3 0 2 1 2 3 2
Panama 3 0 1 2 1 8 1
Korea DPR 0:0 Panama
Argentina 0:0 Czech Republic
Czech Republic 2:2 Korea DPR
Panama 0:6 Argentina
Czech Republic 2:1 Panama
Argentina 1:0 Korea DPR
Group F
MP W D L GF GA Pts
Japan 3 2 1 0 4 1 7
Nigeria 3 2 1 0 3 0 7
Costa Rica 3 1 0 2 2 3 3
Scotland 3 0 0 3 2 7 0
Japan 3:1 Scotland
Nigeria 1:0 Costa Rica
Costa Rica 0:1 Japan
Scotland 0:2 Nigeria
Japan 0:0 Nigeria
Scotland 1:2 Costa Rica
MP W D L GF GA Pts
Chile 3 2 1 0 6 0 7
Austria 3 1 2 0 2 1 5
Congo 3 1 1 1 3 4 4
Canada 3 0 0 3 0 6 0
Canada 0:3 Chile
Congo 1:1 Austria
Austria 1:0 Canada
Chile 3:0 Congo
Canada 0:2 Congo
Chile 0:0 Austria
Group B
MP W D L GF GA Pts
Spain 3 2 1 0 8 5 7
Zambia 3 1 1 1 4 3 4
Uruguay 3 1 1 1 3 4 4
Jordan 3 0 1 2 3 6 1
Jordan 1:1 Zambia
Spain 2:2 Uruguay
Uruguay 1:0 Jordan
Zambia 1:2 Spain
Spain 4:2 Jordan
Uruguay 0:2 Zambia
Group C
MP W D L GF GA Pts
Mexico 3 3 0 0 7 2 9
Gambia 3 2 0 1 3 4 6
Portugal 3 1 0 2 4 4 3
New Zealand 3 0 0 3 1 5 0
Portugal 2:0 New Zealand
Gambia 0:3 Mexico
New Zealand 0:1 Gambia
Mexico 2:1 Portugal
Portugal 1:2 Gambia
New Zealand 1:2 Mexico
Group D
MP W D L GF GA Pts
USA 3 2 1 0 9 3 7
Poland 3 1 1 1 3 7 4
Brazil 3 1 0 2 4 5 3
Korea Republic 3 0 2 1 4 5 2
Poland 1:0 Brazil
Korea Republic 1:1 USA
USA 6:1 Poland
Brazil 3:2 Korea Republic
Brazil 1:2 USA
Poland 1:1 Korea Republic
Group E
MP W D L GF GA Pts
Argentina 3 2 1 0 7 0 7
Czech Republic 3 1 2 0 4 3 5
Korea DPR 3 0 2 1 2 3 2
Panama 3 0 1 2 1 8 1
Korea DPR 0:0 Panama
Argentina 0:0 Czech Republic
Czech Republic 2:2 Korea DPR
Panama 0:6 Argentina
Czech Republic 2:1 Panama
Argentina 1:0 Korea DPR
Group F
MP W D L GF GA Pts
Japan 3 2 1 0 4 1 7
Nigeria 3 2 1 0 3 0 7
Costa Rica 3 1 0 2 2 3 3
Scotland 3 0 0 3 2 7 0
Japan 3:1 Scotland
Nigeria 1:0 Costa Rica
Costa Rica 0:1 Japan
Scotland 0:2 Nigeria
Japan 0:0 Nigeria
Scotland 1:2 Costa Rica
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