Arsene Wenger has come out and publicly asked for EPL referees to provide some measure of protection for his players in the face of increasingly rough and aggressive challenges by their oppositon.
'If one team is making three times more foul tackles than the others then they need to be punished,' Wenger told reporters on Friday.
'I am not asking for special treatment. The referees have to find an answer. I don't want to go into what is right and wrong.'
Wenger's comments come on the heels of Arsenal's bitter reaction to and forced acceptance of Martin Taylor's punishing tackle that ended Eduardo's season. Those in the Arsenal camp who deem Taylor's three match ban as too lenient are finding themselves to be in the minority in the court of public opinion, so Wenger is saying what he can to try and spread some awareness as to the crisis of reckless challenges that he sees as dangerous to the Premier League's product.
It's a tough topic, as physicality is indeed part of football, and no one wants to institute rules that would discourage fullbacks from playing aggressive, hard-nosed defense. Yet, fans of fluid, attractive attack will most likely agree with Wenger in hopes of sustaining an Arsenal-esque approach to the game and will likely call for more protection of players so the beautiful game can cease to be clogged up by bullish backs. Somewhere, there is a happy medium, and tranquility will be restored.
For now, Arsene would be best served to focus on his difficult tasks at hand: winning the Premeirship and overcoming AC Milan in Champions League.
Friday, February 29, 2008
Monday, February 25, 2008
Eduardo Update
Good news out of London today: Eduardo is expected to recover relatively quickly and be able to be up and running within six months, with a possible clearance of playing football again in nine months. After looking at the injury in closer detail, I am thrilled to hear that the Croatian international could be playing again in 2008. I did not foresee that possibility after looking at still photos and slowed down footage on YouTube. But today, Arsenal and Croatia fans may breathe a little easier and hold on to positive hopes for Eduardo's future.
And now hopefully the death threats on Birmingham's Martin Taylor will cease.
Though I deem it ridiculous and criminal for anyone to threaten the man's life, I do not find myself in the increasingly vocal majority of pundits and fans who feel the tackle was not malicious, and I take particular umbrage with those ex-players and commentators who have suggested the challenge did not even merit a yellow card. Malicious intent or not, it is painfully obvious that Taylor's attempted tackle was reckless, and reckless challenges are, by their very nature, condemnable and subject to guaranteed sending offs. And when reckless challenges result in career-threatening injuries? There is no doubt that the guilty player should come under review and be considered for serious suspension. I do not agree with Arsene Wenger's initial reaction that Taylor should "not be allowed to play football" ever again, but I do see a year suspension being warranted. Furthermore, it is becoming increasingly clear that Wenger's constant suspicion about teams' approach to Arsenal well-founded and accurate. EPL squads appear intentionally out to "kick Arsenal;" to knock them out of their free-flowing rhythm by playing doggedly physical, in an effort to neutralize the Gunners' stylish approach. While I don't believe this approach should be prohibited by any stretch (it is basic sport to look for ways to neutralize opponents, and getting physical with your opponent is a heady tactic that transcends most sports), I do believe that Arsenal opponents should take heed to this latest injury, and be wary of commiting reckless fouls in the course of this strategy. I believe Taylor's case should be made an example of, to some extent, and that the FA should reaffirm the position that reckless and dangerous challenges on any player of any team will not be tolerated. Perhaps a year
is too harsh, but a three game ban is surely too lenient, with respect to Taylor's tackle on poor Eduardo.
The Croation media are understandably irate over this development, as Eduardo figured to be a key component in Croatia's summer campaign in Euro '08. However, they are being overzealous and extreme, as evidenced by several of their journalists stopping Martin Taylor's car on the road and attempting to get in for what one assumes would have been a sort of "hijack-interview."
And now hopefully the death threats on Birmingham's Martin Taylor will cease.
Though I deem it ridiculous and criminal for anyone to threaten the man's life, I do not find myself in the increasingly vocal majority of pundits and fans who feel the tackle was not malicious, and I take particular umbrage with those ex-players and commentators who have suggested the challenge did not even merit a yellow card. Malicious intent or not, it is painfully obvious that Taylor's attempted tackle was reckless, and reckless challenges are, by their very nature, condemnable and subject to guaranteed sending offs. And when reckless challenges result in career-threatening injuries? There is no doubt that the guilty player should come under review and be considered for serious suspension. I do not agree with Arsene Wenger's initial reaction that Taylor should "not be allowed to play football" ever again, but I do see a year suspension being warranted. Furthermore, it is becoming increasingly clear that Wenger's constant suspicion about teams' approach to Arsenal well-founded and accurate. EPL squads appear intentionally out to "kick Arsenal;" to knock them out of their free-flowing rhythm by playing doggedly physical, in an effort to neutralize the Gunners' stylish approach. While I don't believe this approach should be prohibited by any stretch (it is basic sport to look for ways to neutralize opponents, and getting physical with your opponent is a heady tactic that transcends most sports), I do believe that Arsenal opponents should take heed to this latest injury, and be wary of commiting reckless fouls in the course of this strategy. I believe Taylor's case should be made an example of, to some extent, and that the FA should reaffirm the position that reckless and dangerous challenges on any player of any team will not be tolerated. Perhaps a year
is too harsh, but a three game ban is surely too lenient, with respect to Taylor's tackle on poor Eduardo.The Croation media are understandably irate over this development, as Eduardo figured to be a key component in Croatia's summer campaign in Euro '08. However, they are being overzealous and extreme, as evidenced by several of their journalists stopping Martin Taylor's car on the road and attempting to get in for what one assumes would have been a sort of "hijack-interview."
Sunday, February 24, 2008
Weekend Review
First off, congratulations to Tottenham Hotspur for winning the Carling Cup over Chelsea at Wembley. Their first trophy in nine years, Spurs went a goal down in the first half before equalizing through a fortunate penalty award in the second half, when Wayne bridge handled the ball in the box. Dmitar Berbatov was cool as ever in leveling the match, and Tottenham capitalized in extra time on their overall superiority in attack when Jonathan Woodgate scored the winner from a set piece. Tottenham were deserved winners on the day, and Chelsea appeared to be off their form, possibly due to Avram Grant's questionable decision to not start Joe Cole and to play Anelka up top alongside Drogba. Chelsea never flowed in the attack, and were not their usual fortified selves in defence, conceding two goals to the new League Cup champions.
Premiership action over the weekend saw Manchester United close the gap on Arsenal to three points, with 11 games remaining. The title chase is squarely up for grabs after United took advantage of Arsenal's 2-2 draw at Birmingham by drubbing Newcastle 5-1 at St. James Park. Ronaldo and Rooney were in stellar form and United were back to their dynamic, deadly ways after a disappointing defeat to Manchester City two weeks ago in their last league fixture. Arsenal, on the other hand, endured a devastating day that saw a 2-1 lead squandered in the 94th minute to a dubious penalty decision but also (and more improtantly) witnessed a season-ending injury to Eduardo. The Brazilian born, Croatian international, who had been in great form of late and was proving one of Arsene Wenger's most delightful surprises of the year, suffered a vicious lower leg break that will cause him to miss the rest of the season, and possibly beyond. Let's hope he is able to come back at the start of the '08-'09 campaign. The loss of Eduardo means Arsenal are desperate to have Robin van Persie return to match fitness asap, or else they will redefine the term "thin" at the striker role.
Liverpool enjoyed a hat trick from Spanish superstar Fernando Torres in their comeback win over Middlesbrough at Anfield, a vital result for the Reds as they were able to move ahead of their Merseyside rivals Everton in pursuit of England's fourth Champions League slot. Aston Villa and Portsmouth both gained crucial wins as they too remained in staunch contention for a top four finish, with Villa notbaly staying level on points at 47 with both Liverpool and Everton. The race for the last Champions League spot is looking to be as compelling as the race for the title.
Sadly for American soccer fans, it looks as if the majority of the Americans playing Premier League football abroad will be playing in the Coca Cola Championship next season, as Reading, Fulham and (surely) Derby County all looked destined for relegation. Fulham boast a whopping four American outfield players in McBride, Dempsey, Bocanegra, and Johnson. Reading's Marcus Hahnemann and Bobby Convey look likely to join their international teammates in relegation despair, alongside Benny Feilhaber, who's Derby side is 100% assured of its fate. It's a shame for the Americans, as conventional wisdom suggests that the American national team can only rise to the level of global contender if a majority of its stars are competing in top flight leagues overseas. Americans have largely acquitted themselves well in the EPL, so to see seven of them relegated in one season would feel disastrous. Proponents of MLS (particularly the loquacious Alexi Lalas) would argue that the domestic league is just as qualified at preparing national team stars (a la Landon Donovan) as any overseas competition, but those in the "know" can see that this is fallacy. The U.S. national team can only benefit from having its stars cut their teeth among the world's best in the best overseas leagues, and it's been a credit to the rising American talent that so many have emerged as key figures for teams not just in the EPL, but also the top flights in Germany, Holland, Belgium, and Scotland. Continued American progression up the ladder of international achievement depends on its players becoming the best they can, and to this end, MLS is certainly not the answer.
Premiership action over the weekend saw Manchester United close the gap on Arsenal to three points, with 11 games remaining. The title chase is squarely up for grabs after United took advantage of Arsenal's 2-2 draw at Birmingham by drubbing Newcastle 5-1 at St. James Park. Ronaldo and Rooney were in stellar form and United were back to their dynamic, deadly ways after a disappointing defeat to Manchester City two weeks ago in their last league fixture. Arsenal, on the other hand, endured a devastating day that saw a 2-1 lead squandered in the 94th minute to a dubious penalty decision but also (and more improtantly) witnessed a season-ending injury to Eduardo. The Brazilian born, Croatian international, who had been in great form of late and was proving one of Arsene Wenger's most delightful surprises of the year, suffered a vicious lower leg break that will cause him to miss the rest of the season, and possibly beyond. Let's hope he is able to come back at the start of the '08-'09 campaign. The loss of Eduardo means Arsenal are desperate to have Robin van Persie return to match fitness asap, or else they will redefine the term "thin" at the striker role.
Liverpool enjoyed a hat trick from Spanish superstar Fernando Torres in their comeback win over Middlesbrough at Anfield, a vital result for the Reds as they were able to move ahead of their Merseyside rivals Everton in pursuit of England's fourth Champions League slot. Aston Villa and Portsmouth both gained crucial wins as they too remained in staunch contention for a top four finish, with Villa notbaly staying level on points at 47 with both Liverpool and Everton. The race for the last Champions League spot is looking to be as compelling as the race for the title.
Sadly for American soccer fans, it looks as if the majority of the Americans playing Premier League football abroad will be playing in the Coca Cola Championship next season, as Reading, Fulham and (surely) Derby County all looked destined for relegation. Fulham boast a whopping four American outfield players in McBride, Dempsey, Bocanegra, and Johnson. Reading's Marcus Hahnemann and Bobby Convey look likely to join their international teammates in relegation despair, alongside Benny Feilhaber, who's Derby side is 100% assured of its fate. It's a shame for the Americans, as conventional wisdom suggests that the American national team can only rise to the level of global contender if a majority of its stars are competing in top flight leagues overseas. Americans have largely acquitted themselves well in the EPL, so to see seven of them relegated in one season would feel disastrous. Proponents of MLS (particularly the loquacious Alexi Lalas) would argue that the domestic league is just as qualified at preparing national team stars (a la Landon Donovan) as any overseas competition, but those in the "know" can see that this is fallacy. The U.S. national team can only benefit from having its stars cut their teeth among the world's best in the best overseas leagues, and it's been a credit to the rising American talent that so many have emerged as key figures for teams not just in the EPL, but also the top flights in Germany, Holland, Belgium, and Scotland. Continued American progression up the ladder of international achievement depends on its players becoming the best they can, and to this end, MLS is certainly not the answer.
Wednesday, February 20, 2008
Copa Libertadores
All the global focus is on Champions League in Europe right now, and rightfully so, but let's not forget that the "other" champions' league, the Copa Libertadores, is getting underway with its group stages this month. While it doesn't carry the mystique or glamour clubs of the UEFA version, the Libertadores is a fine tournament, with very good teams with emerging talent destined for the brighter shores of Europe.
Here is a link to the eight group pairings, courtesy of ESPN Soccernet:
http://soccernet-akamai.espn.go.com/league?id=conmebol.libertadores&cc=5901
I will dive deeper into this tournament as it progresses through the group stages. So far, the only noteworthy result was River Plate losing to Peruvian club Universidad San Martin. That was a shocker.
Here is a link to the eight group pairings, courtesy of ESPN Soccernet:
http://soccernet-akamai.espn.go.com/league?id=conmebol.libertadores&cc=5901
I will dive deeper into this tournament as it progresses through the group stages. So far, the only noteworthy result was River Plate losing to Peruvian club Universidad San Martin. That was a shocker.
Tuesday, February 19, 2008
Champions League Preview (Part 2)
Continuing on with our Champions League preview for round of 16 ties, we look at the matchups beginning on Wednesday...
AC Milan v. Arsenal
This has to be the glamour matchup of this round, with the defending champions squaring off against the runners-up of two years ago. Arsenal have arguably (along with Inter and Manchester United) looked the most attractive and dangerous of European clubs so far this year, but they stumbled slightly in the group stage and ended up finishing 2nd to Sevilla, a penalty that caused them to face 1st seed Milan. Six weeks ago, Arsenal would be tghe odds-on favorites here, as Milan were floundering in Serie A and looked in danger of losing out on next year's Champions League by not finishing in the top four spots of the Italian league. But they have recently found their form, and are threatening to re-enter the top four in Serie A, and more importantly are regaining their identity just in time for Champions League knockout stages, where they thrive. So Arsenal have their work cut out for them, and I see this tie hinging on the Arsenal array of talented midfielders and how they deal with Kaka's attack and Gattuso's defense. Milan are loaded with other threats as well, including newcomer Alexandre Pato, but the midfield matchups are scintillating. My gut prediction says Tomas Rosicky is the MVP of this round for the Gunners.
Aggregate Preditcion: 2-2 Arsenal (on away goals)
Barcelona v. Celtic
To say this Barca side is an enigma would be understatement. They have to be the most talented team in Europe, top to bottom, with apologies to Man Utd, Real Madrid, Inter, et. al., and with word released that Eto'o is fit and ready to go, conventional wisdom suggests Barcelona will ride their big names (Eto'o Ronaldinho, Messi, Henry, Deco, etc) to easy passage into the quarterfinal. But Celtic are no pushovers, and are experienced in Champions League knockout football. Last year at this stage they acquitted themselves extremely well against eventual winners Milan, pushing the Rossoneri to the brink before succumbing to an injury-time winner in the 2nd leg at the San Siro. The Glaswegian side knows how to defend, and will look to frustrate Barcelona by impeding their flow, and disrupting their flair. But at home in the first leg, Celtic must score, and for that they must look to Dutch name-for-the-ages Jan Vennegoor of Hesselink, Scott McDonald, and Shinsuke Nakamura.
Aggregate Prediction: 4-2 Barcelona
FC Sevilla v. Fenerbahce
I have to be honest and admit I don't know a lot about the Turkish side, other than they are perennial entrants into Champions League, if not always the knockout fixtures. I do know they have international talent mixed in among some rough and tumble countrymen who help make Turkey such a dangerous international opponent (and World Cup semifinalist in 2002). Sevilla have navigated their way through to the final of the UEFA Cup each of the last two years, winning and then losing in an attempt to repeat last year. But this is where Sevilla feel they ought to be competing: in Champions League late rounds. Their wunderkind striker Fredy Kanoute was just named African footballer of the year (perhaps a dubious win when considering the 2007 Didier Drogba had), and he partners with the very in form Luis Fabiano up front to form a very dangerous attacking Spanish side. Sevilla are struggling currently in 6th place in La Liga which means they better make the most of their time here and now on the big stage, lest they not qualify for next year's show. You have to believe then that they got the draw they wanted.
Aggregate Prediction: 5-0 Sevilla
Manchester United v. Lyon
Lyon are very good, but not good enough to defeat United. Sir Alex's charges are brimming with confidence after drubbing Arsenal 4-0 in the FA Cup at the weekend, and will not be denied in this round. Juninho will need to be big for Lyon, and they will have to score first so they can sit back and frustrate United. Unfortunately for Olympique, Rooney or Ronaldo will create too many chances and will head back to Old Trafford with a lead.
Aggregate Prediction: 4-1 Manchester United
Poor Inter... I though Marco Materrazi's sending off was horrific, and quite possibly gifted Liverpool passage into the next round. Will Inter be able to rebound in three weeks and score a 2-0 or 3-0 victory? Real Madrid have their work cut out for them after succumbing to Roma at the Estadio Olimpico after going 1-0 up early through Raul. Now they return to the Bernebeu with a 2-1 deficit. Porto too, return home needing to overcome a deficit, and Chelsea should have no trouble winning at Stamford Bridge after playing to a 0-0 draw in Athens.
Interesting stuff played out today, with more to come tomorrow, and fascinating possibilities wait in two weeks as we prepare to welcome our final eight teams to the Champions League.
AC Milan v. Arsenal
This has to be the glamour matchup of this round, with the defending champions squaring off against the runners-up of two years ago. Arsenal have arguably (along with Inter and Manchester United) looked the most attractive and dangerous of European clubs so far this year, but they stumbled slightly in the group stage and ended up finishing 2nd to Sevilla, a penalty that caused them to face 1st seed Milan. Six weeks ago, Arsenal would be tghe odds-on favorites here, as Milan were floundering in Serie A and looked in danger of losing out on next year's Champions League by not finishing in the top four spots of the Italian league. But they have recently found their form, and are threatening to re-enter the top four in Serie A, and more importantly are regaining their identity just in time for Champions League knockout stages, where they thrive. So Arsenal have their work cut out for them, and I see this tie hinging on the Arsenal array of talented midfielders and how they deal with Kaka's attack and Gattuso's defense. Milan are loaded with other threats as well, including newcomer Alexandre Pato, but the midfield matchups are scintillating. My gut prediction says Tomas Rosicky is the MVP of this round for the Gunners.
Aggregate Preditcion: 2-2 Arsenal (on away goals)
Barcelona v. Celtic
To say this Barca side is an enigma would be understatement. They have to be the most talented team in Europe, top to bottom, with apologies to Man Utd, Real Madrid, Inter, et. al., and with word released that Eto'o is fit and ready to go, conventional wisdom suggests Barcelona will ride their big names (Eto'o Ronaldinho, Messi, Henry, Deco, etc) to easy passage into the quarterfinal. But Celtic are no pushovers, and are experienced in Champions League knockout football. Last year at this stage they acquitted themselves extremely well against eventual winners Milan, pushing the Rossoneri to the brink before succumbing to an injury-time winner in the 2nd leg at the San Siro. The Glaswegian side knows how to defend, and will look to frustrate Barcelona by impeding their flow, and disrupting their flair. But at home in the first leg, Celtic must score, and for that they must look to Dutch name-for-the-ages Jan Vennegoor of Hesselink, Scott McDonald, and Shinsuke Nakamura.
Aggregate Prediction: 4-2 Barcelona
FC Sevilla v. Fenerbahce
I have to be honest and admit I don't know a lot about the Turkish side, other than they are perennial entrants into Champions League, if not always the knockout fixtures. I do know they have international talent mixed in among some rough and tumble countrymen who help make Turkey such a dangerous international opponent (and World Cup semifinalist in 2002). Sevilla have navigated their way through to the final of the UEFA Cup each of the last two years, winning and then losing in an attempt to repeat last year. But this is where Sevilla feel they ought to be competing: in Champions League late rounds. Their wunderkind striker Fredy Kanoute was just named African footballer of the year (perhaps a dubious win when considering the 2007 Didier Drogba had), and he partners with the very in form Luis Fabiano up front to form a very dangerous attacking Spanish side. Sevilla are struggling currently in 6th place in La Liga which means they better make the most of their time here and now on the big stage, lest they not qualify for next year's show. You have to believe then that they got the draw they wanted.
Aggregate Prediction: 5-0 Sevilla
Manchester United v. Lyon
Lyon are very good, but not good enough to defeat United. Sir Alex's charges are brimming with confidence after drubbing Arsenal 4-0 in the FA Cup at the weekend, and will not be denied in this round. Juninho will need to be big for Lyon, and they will have to score first so they can sit back and frustrate United. Unfortunately for Olympique, Rooney or Ronaldo will create too many chances and will head back to Old Trafford with a lead.
Aggregate Prediction: 4-1 Manchester United
Poor Inter... I though Marco Materrazi's sending off was horrific, and quite possibly gifted Liverpool passage into the next round. Will Inter be able to rebound in three weeks and score a 2-0 or 3-0 victory? Real Madrid have their work cut out for them after succumbing to Roma at the Estadio Olimpico after going 1-0 up early through Raul. Now they return to the Bernebeu with a 2-1 deficit. Porto too, return home needing to overcome a deficit, and Chelsea should have no trouble winning at Stamford Bridge after playing to a 0-0 draw in Athens.
Interesting stuff played out today, with more to come tomorrow, and fascinating possibilities wait in two weeks as we prepare to welcome our final eight teams to the Champions League.
Monday, February 18, 2008
Champions League Preview (Part 1)
After a long lapse between final group stage games and the start of knockout fixtures, the Champions League is ready to resume this week, with the round of 16 knockout phase taking place Tuesday and Wednesday. There are great matchups across the board. The last 16 clubs remaining in Europe's ultimate club competition all carry compelling storylines into this phase. Let's try to label them into three categories (with license to alter and edit later) and then look at the actual matchups individually and try to make some predictions.
The Favorites
Real Madrid
Manchester United
AC Milan
Liverpool
Barcelona
The Next in Line
Inter Milan
Arsenal
Lyon
Chelsea
Roma
Sevilla
The Underdogs
Porto
Celtic
Schalke 04
Olympiacos
Fenerbahce
Now, before we get onto the matchups, a qualification: the above tiers may raise some eyebrows, particularly the exlusion of teams such as Inter, Arsenal, and Chelsea. Well, in order to be considered a favorite in this exercise, I decided that you must be a past winner of Champions League. And with apologies to Porto, the five favorites listed are all previous holders of the trophy and thus deserve to be considered favorites, based on experience alone (that and the fact they are all very powerful sides this year). That said, you can make the argument for ANY of the six teams in the second tier winning the title this year. And in fact, I believe either Inter or Arsenal are the real favorites at this stage. The underdogs are all poised to make a lot of noise in the form of dramatic upsets and deep runs into the semi-final or perhaps farther. They are all to be taken seriously.
So with that, it's safe to say each of the last 16 are dangerous and talented, so let's examine the ties:
FC Porto v. Schalke 04
Schalke, who are 5th in the Bundesliga, have to be the underdogs against a very in-form Porto, led by Argentines Lisandro Lopez and Luis Gonzales, and Portuguese sensation Ricardo Quaresma. But Kevin Kuranyi and Schalke will try to score goals first and keep the dangerous Porto side from getting in rhythm. Schalke may be able to get a result at home, but most likely will hope for a draw, and I see Porto going through on aggregate.
Aggregate Prediction: 3-1 Porto
Chelsea v. Olympiacos
Chelsea are overwhelming favorites to advance to the quarterfinal, but Olympiacos may very well provide a scare. It is up to Chelsea's African stars to regain their stellar form they maintained prior to leaving for the African Cup of Nations. If they do, they will win in a walk. If not, Chelsea may be forced to earn their passage in a prickly home leg at Stamford Bridge.
Aggregate Prediction: 2-0 Chelsea
Real Madrid v. RomaThis is an intriguing matchup between powerhouse clubs, but most will argue Real Madrid is the clear favorite to go through. They are still top of La Liga, and are playing well, if not erratic at times. They are clearly the deeper and more talented side, but Roma are dangerous in attack, particularly with Totti and Perotta working interplay off each other. I am going with an upset here.
Aggregate Prediction: 3-3 Roma (on away goals)
Inter Milan v. Liverpool
In any other year, this matchup would be the best of the round of 16, but this year it's not even the best matchup between Italian and English clubs (that honor goes to Milan v. Arsenal). Inter have been the best club in the world this season, utterly dominating Serie A and looking nearly invincible with their depth of talent, most of which is culled from outside Italy. But Liverpool and Rafa Benitez are never to be underestimated in European play (just ask last year's favorites Barca), and will no doubt put all their energies into Champions League success as a way of slavaging an otherwise disappointing season so far. Liverpool play a style of football more suited for Europe, and will be very tough at Anfield in tomorrow's first leg. Still, if Inter are ever to break through on the European stage, this has to be their year.
Aggregate Prediction: 3-1 Inter
Part 2 tomorrow, as well as reaction to these first leg results.
The Favorites
Real Madrid
Manchester United
AC Milan
Liverpool
Barcelona
The Next in Line
Inter Milan
Arsenal
Lyon
Chelsea
Roma
Sevilla
The Underdogs
Porto
Celtic
Schalke 04
Olympiacos
Fenerbahce
Now, before we get onto the matchups, a qualification: the above tiers may raise some eyebrows, particularly the exlusion of teams such as Inter, Arsenal, and Chelsea. Well, in order to be considered a favorite in this exercise, I decided that you must be a past winner of Champions League. And with apologies to Porto, the five favorites listed are all previous holders of the trophy and thus deserve to be considered favorites, based on experience alone (that and the fact they are all very powerful sides this year). That said, you can make the argument for ANY of the six teams in the second tier winning the title this year. And in fact, I believe either Inter or Arsenal are the real favorites at this stage. The underdogs are all poised to make a lot of noise in the form of dramatic upsets and deep runs into the semi-final or perhaps farther. They are all to be taken seriously.
So with that, it's safe to say each of the last 16 are dangerous and talented, so let's examine the ties:
FC Porto v. Schalke 04
Schalke, who are 5th in the Bundesliga, have to be the underdogs against a very in-form Porto, led by Argentines Lisandro Lopez and Luis Gonzales, and Portuguese sensation Ricardo Quaresma. But Kevin Kuranyi and Schalke will try to score goals first and keep the dangerous Porto side from getting in rhythm. Schalke may be able to get a result at home, but most likely will hope for a draw, and I see Porto going through on aggregate.
Aggregate Prediction: 3-1 Porto
Chelsea v. Olympiacos
Chelsea are overwhelming favorites to advance to the quarterfinal, but Olympiacos may very well provide a scare. It is up to Chelsea's African stars to regain their stellar form they maintained prior to leaving for the African Cup of Nations. If they do, they will win in a walk. If not, Chelsea may be forced to earn their passage in a prickly home leg at Stamford Bridge.
Aggregate Prediction: 2-0 Chelsea
Real Madrid v. RomaThis is an intriguing matchup between powerhouse clubs, but most will argue Real Madrid is the clear favorite to go through. They are still top of La Liga, and are playing well, if not erratic at times. They are clearly the deeper and more talented side, but Roma are dangerous in attack, particularly with Totti and Perotta working interplay off each other. I am going with an upset here.
Aggregate Prediction: 3-3 Roma (on away goals)
Inter Milan v. Liverpool
In any other year, this matchup would be the best of the round of 16, but this year it's not even the best matchup between Italian and English clubs (that honor goes to Milan v. Arsenal). Inter have been the best club in the world this season, utterly dominating Serie A and looking nearly invincible with their depth of talent, most of which is culled from outside Italy. But Liverpool and Rafa Benitez are never to be underestimated in European play (just ask last year's favorites Barca), and will no doubt put all their energies into Champions League success as a way of slavaging an otherwise disappointing season so far. Liverpool play a style of football more suited for Europe, and will be very tough at Anfield in tomorrow's first leg. Still, if Inter are ever to break through on the European stage, this has to be their year.
Aggregate Prediction: 3-1 Inter
Part 2 tomorrow, as well as reaction to these first leg results.
Wednesday, February 13, 2008
Weekend in Review
A lot of things to review from the past weekend...
Premiership
The big event was the Manchester derby at Old Trafford, where both United and City wore blank throwback jerseys in honor of the 1958 Munich air disaster that killed the Busby Babes as well as several Manchester journalists, including an ex City player. The crowd was cooperative and respectful, remaining quiet for the full 60 seconds of the observed moment of silence (this is only noteworthy because Sir Alex had begged City fans to stay silent as though they were a real threat to whoop and holler during the silence...perhaps they were). United were clearly efftected by the emotional gravity of the occasion, and were outplayed by City, who defended and countered to perfection, eventually earning a 2-0 lead before the break that would never really be in danger (Carrick's injury time goal in the 2nd made the result appear closer than it was).
And Arsenal capitalized. A 2-0 home win vs Blackburn Rovers saw the Gunners move 5 points clear of United in the title race. The talk all season has been about how United are superior to the youthful Arsenal, about how Arsenal's hot start could not last, and how ultimately they would succumb to the pressure of the long season and the sheer force that is United. Well, we are still waiting to see if the pundits' predictions will come through. Arsenal still have to travel to Stamford Bridge and Old Trafford, but with their current form in the league, assuming that points will be dropped would not be a smart idea. Arsenal have the makeup of a young side that knows exactly what it's doing. They are executing their stylish brand of football and capitalizing on one of the great goal-scoring runs in recent memory in Emmanuel Adebayor. Their midfield when fully healthy, is the deepest and most technically adroit unit in all of Europe, and now their back line is re-enforced with the return of Kolo Toure. United still might catch them, but at this point, there's a lot less skepticism being bandied about rgearding these Gunners.
Argentine Clausura
The Argentine second season got underway as well, with last season's Apertura winners Lanus getting off to the start they wanted, earning a 1-0 win. River Plate also got a nice three point start to their Clausura campaign, and look to finally reclaim their rightful place at the top of the league under new coach Diego Simeone, who only a year and a half ago won the Apertura title with Estudiantes La Plata. Boca Juniors conceded a wonderful late goal at Rosario Central, and were forced to head back to Buenos Aires with only a share of the spoils in a 1-1 draw.
The Argentine league looks to continue its recent run as "most competitive league in the world," or at least to continue to earn mention in that conversation. It may sound surprising or ridiculous to some, but it is not inaccurate to say that Argentina's domestic competition is the most top-to-bottom league in the world. Not the best competition, or the best teams, but the most truly competitive. Formerly a shared monarchy between Boca and River, the Apertura and Clausura titles in recent years have proven genuinely up for grabs. The fact that the most recent three champions (Lanus, San Lorenzo, Estudiantes) are not names Boca or River is testament to how deep the league is. Last season, newly promoted Tigre challenged Lanus all the way for the title. Giants Independiente and Racing are back on the upswing. It is clear that with so much homegrown talent in the world's current top ranked nation, Argentina is able to produce stars everywhere, at almost every club. What is more amazing is that the superstars, of which there are many, constantly emigrate to Europe to play for the world's biggest and richest clubs in Italy, Spain, and England. Unlike Brazil, who loses stars abroad and doesn't replicate them quickly or efficiently in the domestic product, Argentina's clubs don't seem to truly suffer from an exodus of top talent, because there's always new talent coming in right behind them. With this infrastructure in place, it's no wonder Argentina currently enjoys status as Fifa's # 1 in the world. Now if they could just go and prove it with another World Cup...
(Now if they could just beat Brazil....)
Premiership
The big event was the Manchester derby at Old Trafford, where both United and City wore blank throwback jerseys in honor of the 1958 Munich air disaster that killed the Busby Babes as well as several Manchester journalists, including an ex City player. The crowd was cooperative and respectful, remaining quiet for the full 60 seconds of the observed moment of silence (this is only noteworthy because Sir Alex had begged City fans to stay silent as though they were a real threat to whoop and holler during the silence...perhaps they were). United were clearly efftected by the emotional gravity of the occasion, and were outplayed by City, who defended and countered to perfection, eventually earning a 2-0 lead before the break that would never really be in danger (Carrick's injury time goal in the 2nd made the result appear closer than it was).
And Arsenal capitalized. A 2-0 home win vs Blackburn Rovers saw the Gunners move 5 points clear of United in the title race. The talk all season has been about how United are superior to the youthful Arsenal, about how Arsenal's hot start could not last, and how ultimately they would succumb to the pressure of the long season and the sheer force that is United. Well, we are still waiting to see if the pundits' predictions will come through. Arsenal still have to travel to Stamford Bridge and Old Trafford, but with their current form in the league, assuming that points will be dropped would not be a smart idea. Arsenal have the makeup of a young side that knows exactly what it's doing. They are executing their stylish brand of football and capitalizing on one of the great goal-scoring runs in recent memory in Emmanuel Adebayor. Their midfield when fully healthy, is the deepest and most technically adroit unit in all of Europe, and now their back line is re-enforced with the return of Kolo Toure. United still might catch them, but at this point, there's a lot less skepticism being bandied about rgearding these Gunners.
Argentine Clausura
The Argentine second season got underway as well, with last season's Apertura winners Lanus getting off to the start they wanted, earning a 1-0 win. River Plate also got a nice three point start to their Clausura campaign, and look to finally reclaim their rightful place at the top of the league under new coach Diego Simeone, who only a year and a half ago won the Apertura title with Estudiantes La Plata. Boca Juniors conceded a wonderful late goal at Rosario Central, and were forced to head back to Buenos Aires with only a share of the spoils in a 1-1 draw.
The Argentine league looks to continue its recent run as "most competitive league in the world," or at least to continue to earn mention in that conversation. It may sound surprising or ridiculous to some, but it is not inaccurate to say that Argentina's domestic competition is the most top-to-bottom league in the world. Not the best competition, or the best teams, but the most truly competitive. Formerly a shared monarchy between Boca and River, the Apertura and Clausura titles in recent years have proven genuinely up for grabs. The fact that the most recent three champions (Lanus, San Lorenzo, Estudiantes) are not names Boca or River is testament to how deep the league is. Last season, newly promoted Tigre challenged Lanus all the way for the title. Giants Independiente and Racing are back on the upswing. It is clear that with so much homegrown talent in the world's current top ranked nation, Argentina is able to produce stars everywhere, at almost every club. What is more amazing is that the superstars, of which there are many, constantly emigrate to Europe to play for the world's biggest and richest clubs in Italy, Spain, and England. Unlike Brazil, who loses stars abroad and doesn't replicate them quickly or efficiently in the domestic product, Argentina's clubs don't seem to truly suffer from an exodus of top talent, because there's always new talent coming in right behind them. With this infrastructure in place, it's no wonder Argentina currently enjoys status as Fifa's # 1 in the world. Now if they could just go and prove it with another World Cup...
(Now if they could just beat Brazil....)
Friday, February 8, 2008
Global Premier League?
A quick take on the proposal to turn the EPL into the GPL for one weekend a year...
I think the Premiership adding a 39th fixture and having teams play international league games is an interesting idea, if not a wholly practical one. The EPL is undoubtedly the most popular league in the world in terms of television contracts and persistent interest among fans from all continents. So it's an understandable wish to promote the EPL brand by bringing it directly to several international destinations. If done correctly, the English game's brand will expand exponentially, and the sponsors and owners and television execs will enjoy a serious financial windfall. The NFL succesfully pulled off its first ever regular season game outside of North America this past season when it staged a festive duel at Wembley.
But there are considerable hurdles to making this work, some which may prove to be insurmountable. The fans, first, need to be guaged, and if there is overwhelming support against such a plan, then the EPL cannot simply ignore and marginalize its rabid domestic fans who essentially make the league so special. Second, but not of less importance, are the teams, managers, and players themselves to consider. Will they be keen to hopping jets to Singapore or Sydney or San Francisco? Perhaps, and perhaps not. But getting the clubs themselves and their managers and players to go along with this radical proposal will be an essential, an d difficult proposition.
Finally, there's the matter of the competition. How will this effect the Premiershiop title race, and will the integrity of the 38 fair fixtures be compromised? A 39th game means each team will have to play one team in the league three times. How will this be determined? Will the top four play each other a third time? That might hold balance, but then there would be disproportional weight given to the cities that host these matches. I have to believe the idea is to spread the big four out across the globe, to assure that each city has a big brand name of English football attracting fans to its site. But how then, to assign the fixtures? Must Newcastle or Middlesbrough or even Tottenham or Reading agree to playing Manchester United an extra time? Blackburn or Bolton against Chelsea...in Miami? And these points matter? A newly promoted team has to play Everton a third time, and it costs them being relegated. Is that a risk a club would sign off on in order to expand the global image of the Premier League?
It is indeed an intriguing proposal, and it may yet prove visionary. But from where I'm sitting right now, I just don't see it. I'm with Gareth Southgate: "Is it April the 1st?"
I think the Premiership adding a 39th fixture and having teams play international league games is an interesting idea, if not a wholly practical one. The EPL is undoubtedly the most popular league in the world in terms of television contracts and persistent interest among fans from all continents. So it's an understandable wish to promote the EPL brand by bringing it directly to several international destinations. If done correctly, the English game's brand will expand exponentially, and the sponsors and owners and television execs will enjoy a serious financial windfall. The NFL succesfully pulled off its first ever regular season game outside of North America this past season when it staged a festive duel at Wembley.
But there are considerable hurdles to making this work, some which may prove to be insurmountable. The fans, first, need to be guaged, and if there is overwhelming support against such a plan, then the EPL cannot simply ignore and marginalize its rabid domestic fans who essentially make the league so special. Second, but not of less importance, are the teams, managers, and players themselves to consider. Will they be keen to hopping jets to Singapore or Sydney or San Francisco? Perhaps, and perhaps not. But getting the clubs themselves and their managers and players to go along with this radical proposal will be an essential, an d difficult proposition.
Finally, there's the matter of the competition. How will this effect the Premiershiop title race, and will the integrity of the 38 fair fixtures be compromised? A 39th game means each team will have to play one team in the league three times. How will this be determined? Will the top four play each other a third time? That might hold balance, but then there would be disproportional weight given to the cities that host these matches. I have to believe the idea is to spread the big four out across the globe, to assure that each city has a big brand name of English football attracting fans to its site. But how then, to assign the fixtures? Must Newcastle or Middlesbrough or even Tottenham or Reading agree to playing Manchester United an extra time? Blackburn or Bolton against Chelsea...in Miami? And these points matter? A newly promoted team has to play Everton a third time, and it costs them being relegated. Is that a risk a club would sign off on in order to expand the global image of the Premier League?
It is indeed an intriguing proposal, and it may yet prove visionary. But from where I'm sitting right now, I just don't see it. I'm with Gareth Southgate: "Is it April the 1st?"
Thursday, February 7, 2008
A Prophet and a Witness
Today I am a man of two hats: prophet and witness.
I predicted the England-Switzerland scoreline was going to be 2-1 to England, and it was, and my prophetic wisdom was proven more accurate still by suggesting it would be an "ugly" game (though to be fair, I thought England played much of the 2nd half with an exciting flair that already hints at some of the excitement to come under Capello).
I witnessed the 5-0 thumping Argentina put on Guatemala last night at the L.A. Coliseum, and, though the scoreline should not really come as a surprise given the #1 vs. # 103 disparity in Fifa world rankings, the nature of Argentina's dominance was eye-opening indeed. Playing without their four principal national team strikers (Messi, Tevez, Crespo, and Saviola) Argentina fielded a mostly under-23 team in preparation for the Beijing Olympics, with a sprinkling of seasoned veterans in Javier Mascherano, Esteban Cambiasso, and Juan Roman Riquelme. I was given the opportunity to witness the spectacle from field level for the 2nd half, and was right behind the goal for all three Argentina 2nd half goals. You can even see me celebrating with arms in the air after the 5th goal!
The shocking news today comes from the African Cup of Nations, where both Ivory Coast and Ghana were upset, by Egypt and Cameroon, respectively. Egypt dispensed with favorites Ivory Coast 4-1 while Cameroon stunned the host nation 1-0, setting up a tasty final between the defending champion Egyptians and the always dangerous Cameroon side. It's a bit disappointing that the supposed juggernaut in Cote d' Ivoire was beaten, and same can be said for seeing the powerful Ghanaian side leave its home fans just a bit wanting, but the good news for Chelsea fans at least, and particularly for FFF's Steven Cohen, is that now Drogba, Kalou, and Essien can all return to Stamford Bridge sooner than expected.
USA and Mexico played to a 2-2 draw last night, with Mexico clearly the better team on the night, but AGAIN being denied a victory on American soil by some opportunistic attacking by Oguchi Onyewu and Jozy Altidore (a.k.a. "the new hope"). It was a festive atmosphere in Houston, as it always is whenever and wherever El Tri play in the United States. Mexico have to be bitterly disappointed with the result.
I predicted the England-Switzerland scoreline was going to be 2-1 to England, and it was, and my prophetic wisdom was proven more accurate still by suggesting it would be an "ugly" game (though to be fair, I thought England played much of the 2nd half with an exciting flair that already hints at some of the excitement to come under Capello).
I witnessed the 5-0 thumping Argentina put on Guatemala last night at the L.A. Coliseum, and, though the scoreline should not really come as a surprise given the #1 vs. # 103 disparity in Fifa world rankings, the nature of Argentina's dominance was eye-opening indeed. Playing without their four principal national team strikers (Messi, Tevez, Crespo, and Saviola) Argentina fielded a mostly under-23 team in preparation for the Beijing Olympics, with a sprinkling of seasoned veterans in Javier Mascherano, Esteban Cambiasso, and Juan Roman Riquelme. I was given the opportunity to witness the spectacle from field level for the 2nd half, and was right behind the goal for all three Argentina 2nd half goals. You can even see me celebrating with arms in the air after the 5th goal!
The shocking news today comes from the African Cup of Nations, where both Ivory Coast and Ghana were upset, by Egypt and Cameroon, respectively. Egypt dispensed with favorites Ivory Coast 4-1 while Cameroon stunned the host nation 1-0, setting up a tasty final between the defending champion Egyptians and the always dangerous Cameroon side. It's a bit disappointing that the supposed juggernaut in Cote d' Ivoire was beaten, and same can be said for seeing the powerful Ghanaian side leave its home fans just a bit wanting, but the good news for Chelsea fans at least, and particularly for FFF's Steven Cohen, is that now Drogba, Kalou, and Essien can all return to Stamford Bridge sooner than expected.
USA and Mexico played to a 2-2 draw last night, with Mexico clearly the better team on the night, but AGAIN being denied a victory on American soil by some opportunistic attacking by Oguchi Onyewu and Jozy Altidore (a.k.a. "the new hope"). It was a festive atmosphere in Houston, as it always is whenever and wherever El Tri play in the United States. Mexico have to be bitterly disappointed with the result.
Wednesday, February 6, 2008
International Wednesday
Today, nations around the world compete in international friendlies, some carrying weight, some not. There are also international qualifier matches in Concacaf as well as Oceania/Asia, where I hear that Australia has passed their first test on their way to securing a place in South Africa, 2010. The Socceroos defeated Qatar 3-0.
But while the Asia region puts on games with actual meaning, much of the focus today is on matches that have no technical meaning, and most attention is on England's friendly against Switzerland at Wembley Stadium. It is the dawn of a new era for the England national team, as "Don" Fabio Capello makes his debut as England manager. Already the national scutiny is at fever pitch, with constant speculation and anxiety over who will start today. Will Michael Owen play? Will David James be in goal? What formation will be run? Where will Joe Cole be positioned? Despite the media frenzy, the prevailing mood is that Capello's buttoned-up, no-nonsense approach will be a welcome change in atmosphere for both players and fans. Expect a gradually instilled discipline to influence this team positively, with gradually improving results to follow in parallel. The shift won't happen overnight, but England will be strong by the start of real World Cup qualifiers (can Andorra be considered "real"?) and there will be a genuine difference in their displays on the pitch, one that will have the media and populace of the UK uproarious and spastic about the best England team in several decades. It's too early to even begin to think about such projections, but a semi-final birth in South Africa seems attainable with Capello at the helm. Today? 2-1 to England, in an ugly affair. It will take time.
Other European friendlies of interest today: Brazil visits Ireland, Netherlands visits Croatia, France visits Spain, and Portugal visits Italy.
Mexico faces U.S.A. in Houston in a match that is "friendly" in name only. The two fierce rivals and Concacaf powers meet in yet another volatile bout for bragging rights. Mexico has not defeated the U.S. on American soil in their last 10 attempts, despite carrying majority support in nearly all of those matches, as they were contested in southwest destinations such as Los Angeles, Phoenix, Houston and Dallas where large immigrant populations have made their Mexican loyalties heard. Mexico is fielding a much stronger starting 11 than is the United States, which signals their clear intent of winning this match and ending the drought. Still bitter over their 2-1 finals defeat in the Gold Cup last June, when they had gone a goal up only to see chance after chance denied in the 2nd half after Benny Feilhaber's miraculous go ahead volley put them in a hole, the Mexican players are fired up for this one, but so too are the Americans. Landon Donovan expressed his candid assessment of the rivalry when he said something to the effect of "the teams just don't like each other." He relishes the underdog role, even in his own country, speaking of the minority voice the U.S. fans will hold in Reliant stadium. However, as well as the Americans have fared against them, I have a feeling Mexico finally breaks through today, 3-1, behind their fierce support, formidable lineup, and sheer will to end this run of American dominance in America.
Should be an interesting day. I will have a first hand account of Argentina-Guatemala tomorrow, as I will be in attendance tonight in Los Angeles at the Colisseum.
back later in the week with much more on the Premiership, Serie A, Bundesliga, and La Liga, as well as a preview of the Argentine Clausura.
But while the Asia region puts on games with actual meaning, much of the focus today is on matches that have no technical meaning, and most attention is on England's friendly against Switzerland at Wembley Stadium. It is the dawn of a new era for the England national team, as "Don" Fabio Capello makes his debut as England manager. Already the national scutiny is at fever pitch, with constant speculation and anxiety over who will start today. Will Michael Owen play? Will David James be in goal? What formation will be run? Where will Joe Cole be positioned? Despite the media frenzy, the prevailing mood is that Capello's buttoned-up, no-nonsense approach will be a welcome change in atmosphere for both players and fans. Expect a gradually instilled discipline to influence this team positively, with gradually improving results to follow in parallel. The shift won't happen overnight, but England will be strong by the start of real World Cup qualifiers (can Andorra be considered "real"?) and there will be a genuine difference in their displays on the pitch, one that will have the media and populace of the UK uproarious and spastic about the best England team in several decades. It's too early to even begin to think about such projections, but a semi-final birth in South Africa seems attainable with Capello at the helm. Today? 2-1 to England, in an ugly affair. It will take time.
Other European friendlies of interest today: Brazil visits Ireland, Netherlands visits Croatia, France visits Spain, and Portugal visits Italy.
Mexico faces U.S.A. in Houston in a match that is "friendly" in name only. The two fierce rivals and Concacaf powers meet in yet another volatile bout for bragging rights. Mexico has not defeated the U.S. on American soil in their last 10 attempts, despite carrying majority support in nearly all of those matches, as they were contested in southwest destinations such as Los Angeles, Phoenix, Houston and Dallas where large immigrant populations have made their Mexican loyalties heard. Mexico is fielding a much stronger starting 11 than is the United States, which signals their clear intent of winning this match and ending the drought. Still bitter over their 2-1 finals defeat in the Gold Cup last June, when they had gone a goal up only to see chance after chance denied in the 2nd half after Benny Feilhaber's miraculous go ahead volley put them in a hole, the Mexican players are fired up for this one, but so too are the Americans. Landon Donovan expressed his candid assessment of the rivalry when he said something to the effect of "the teams just don't like each other." He relishes the underdog role, even in his own country, speaking of the minority voice the U.S. fans will hold in Reliant stadium. However, as well as the Americans have fared against them, I have a feeling Mexico finally breaks through today, 3-1, behind their fierce support, formidable lineup, and sheer will to end this run of American dominance in America.
Should be an interesting day. I will have a first hand account of Argentina-Guatemala tomorrow, as I will be in attendance tonight in Los Angeles at the Colisseum.
back later in the week with much more on the Premiership, Serie A, Bundesliga, and La Liga, as well as a preview of the Argentine Clausura.
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