Libero

Complacent Arsenal Deserve Defeat.

2008-09-27T13:11:00.001-07:00

It was Arsene Wenger’s twelfth anniversary in charge of the club, Hull City were the opponents. The fans were expectant of a cricket score. Yet as we’ve seen in a number of games in the past four years, the players have believed in their own hype and become complacent. They did not respect Hull City in this game. They played at a snail’s pace in terms of tempo, didn’t fight for any ball, and were beaten by the better team. The second half, bar our goal, was shambolic.

Arsenal created many openings, squandered by wayward finishing and an obsession to score a ‘perfect passing goal’. Theo Walcott showed the flaws in his game when given time and space in front of goal. The young winger had three great chances but his indecision in each situation cost the Gunners. When only given one option, he has shown the direct attitude, which has suddenly made him a worldwide star. The assisting dribble and pass for our scrappy goal was one of the few instances in which our most dangerous player was able to exert his influence. On a number of other occasions, he flashed in decent crosses, which our non-existent strike-force didn’t bother to attack. Unfortunately for Walcott, who was our most threatening attacker, he was sacrificed for Vela instead of Adebayor or van Persie, both of whom had forgotten their already fragile ability to score. This is another example of the influence of seniority which affects Wenger’s substitutions.

The decision for Wenger was to keep the young, in-form strike partnership of Bendtner and Vela or to reinstate the senior members of the squad. The boss opted for the latter, who despite being on form in their past few games, hadn’t played for a week. Our Danish striker was the in-form man, while his link-up play with Vela is far more effective than that between our first choice strikers, who seem to play as lone forwards together (if that makes sense...). Adebayor took 34 minutes to bag his first offside, but had little effective play in the box or any decent shots. Playing in Eboue with a fine pass, who unsurprisingly elected to pass to Van Persie, despite having a great opportunity to open the scoring, was his one moment of the game. Yes, he pulled out wide, and collected the ball, but it was predominantly to pass back to Clichy. When did he take on his defender and win? Michael Turner, possibly the defensive find of the season, had him covered for the whole game with the aid of a little luck.

As for the defensive play, this was the third time this season where Gallas’ terrible marking has cost us a set-piece goal (the other occasions being Bolton and Fulham). It seems he has regressed in his defensive capabilities and is infatuated at playing a Beckenbauer role, in setting up attacks from deep, and often finishing. Yes, he has scored three goals, which have led to some key results in the Champions League, but his main occupation is to defend. And it seems that he is slow to pick up his marker, complacent on the ball and poor when attacking an aerial ball. While he may not be one of the most vocal leaders, he has to lead by example in his play. There is no doubt that some smug pundit will mention the incidents at St. Andrews last season, but it isn’t a matter of his speech-making capabilities this time, but simple defending. And it appears he can’t do that either.

Unfortunately, much of our attacking thrust was blocked with both Clichy and Sagna unable to bombard their respective flanks with menacing, direct runs. What was noticeable was how both checked their stride when passed the ball, breaking up any momentum. Toure was possibly the only defender who came out with any credit. The passes they were fed, mainly by Denilson, were imprecise and unclean, losing vital seconds for any attack against a very well-drilled Hull side. Denilson had the largest amount of possession for an Arsenal player, at least according to the eye, and retained the ball well, but lacked any cutting edge or drive. He works very well as a midfield runner in a 4-5-1, supporting the attack, as shown at Bolton, but lacks the physical strength to impose his defensive abilities. In terms of statistics, he seems most efficient of our midfielders but considering each pass, very few were attack-minded.

I still feel Alexandre Song is the best partner for Fabregas, with the Cameroonian having tactical, physical and technical abilities to prove a successful foil for our Spaniard. Denilson restricts Fabregas’ game, forcing him to play as the defensive player on many occasions. This tactical inexperience and lack of decent positioning is affecting our attacking game. On some occasions, when the whole team presses together, Denilson looks very effective, winning the first ball, with another red shirt sweeping up. In a performance, where most of his team-mates looked disinterested, his game was weakened. Song is much better against counter-attacking players (Hull did this several times in the second half), and uses his body better to shield and tackle. It is only a matter of time before Song will slot into the starting eleven.

Hull were brilliant, with the hold up play of Marlon King key to their attacking play. Their organisation was far from normal of a promoted side, with Phil Brown instilling a mentality that will see them stay up with ease. They were set up well to counter-attack with the pace of Daniel Cousin, the battling qualities of Ashbee and Boateng had commitment which our players couldn’t match, and having targeted our set-piece weakness, it was a masterclass in how to take a result at the Emirates by actually playing football. The crowning moment was Geovanni’s rocket from outside the box. It’s a shame that no-one could pick him up from midfield, and how we stopped playing having got the breakthrough. Real Madrid just showed how to win these kinds of games, with second round of Champions League games coming through. They won 1-2 away against a dangerous Betis, with each player showing a fine work ethic, something we lacked and has to be highlighted.

What was ominous about this game was how Fabregas spoke of the Champions League in the build up to the Hull game, a telling sign that the players were saving themselves for the supposedly bigger game. After a week, where the club was in the headlines consistently, with first the side taking the three points for the third game running at the Reebok, and then the youngest ever side thrashing Championship side Sheffield United, the players bought into their own hype, as has happened many times over the past few years. Would the youth players, who are fighting for a career at the club, have made a better impact?

We are best when there is no media attention or on the end of a defeat and heavy criticism. There will be a reaction on Tuesday and Porto will prove a huge test. Fabregas talked of its importance, now they have to deliver.

(Image courtesy of BBC Sport)

European Title Races Preview - England and Spain

2008-08-26T07:22:00.000-07:00

England:
After a troubled pre-season in which many first-team regulars have left (Gilberto, Flamini, Hoyte) and been replaced by inexperienced newcomers, Arsenal do not currently look like challengers A number of squad players have been loaned out thus lowering the depth of the side, with a notable departure in the loaning of Philippe Senderos to AC Milan. The lack of a midfield enforcer to set the tempo, drive on the side and gee up team-mates is a major factor why the side is likely to fall well short from first place. If a current squad member can step up or a new signing or two (Inler?) comes in, then the Gunners will have a squad with enough quality to compete for silverware this year.

Chelsea have hired another Portuguese manager and a larger Portuguese-speaking contingent with Bosingwa and Deco adding to Ferreira, Alex et al. The addition of Deco, the Brazilian born playmaker, looks to be key to the side’s style of play. There is an embarrassment of midfield riches, with Lampard, Deco, Ballack, Mikel and Essien all fighting for a starting spot. Scolari’s use of attacking full-backs might finally get the best out of Ashley Cole. The squad depth and the re-signing of Frank Lampard to a new hugely-inflated five year deal might spur last year’s runners up to challenge on all four fronts.

Having won the Champions League and Premiership last season, Sir Alex Ferguson’s Manchester United will look to defend their titles, with an even more congested fixture list, with the World Club Championship in December, it will be even more difficult this time round, especially if they decide to take part in the FA Cup, unlike last time. The main issue with the team is the lack of a reliable third striker aside from Rooney and Tevez, especially with Saha being as injury prone as…well, Rosicky. Berbatov is the name being touted everywhere but will cost close to £30m. The injury to Real Madrid fan Ronaldo will inhibit their play but the strength in depth means results will come even without the Portuguese attacker. The sale of Silvestre to Arsenal means the promotion of Fabio and Rafael the adventurous full-backs, with the former of the two top-scoring for Brazil in the U17 World Cup in 2007. Silverware is very likely for the Red Devils.

‘When will Liverpool win the title again?’ is a question on the lips of many a football fan. Pundits and ex-players alike have tipped the side to run the favourites close having signed Keane from Tottenham. Yet the issue of money has come up once more, with Benitez insistent on signing Barry for £18m and his reasons for this protracted transfer saga being the need of left footers and British players. The reported £8m arrival of ex-Manchester City player Albert Riera from Espanyol is now being seen as the alternative to Barry, despite their different positions and style of play. The future of Alonso is still up for debate, while the fans are also worried concerning the success of the DIC’s bid to buy the club from its American owners, neither of whom are particularly liked (and that’s being kind). Success on the pitch will do much to distract the media attention from the inner turmoil at the club.

Prediction: Chelsea 1st, Manchester United 2nd, Arsenal 3rd, Liverpool 4th
Abramovich may finally get his wish of wining the title with aesthetically pleasing football. United will no doubt be right up there, but lagging behind unfortunately will be Arsenal and Liverpool (the order of the two is anybody’s guess – I’m feeling optimistic!).

Spain:
A poor quality La Liga title race was won by Real Madrid at a canter last season and one can only hope a better fight is put up this time around. The Spanish Champions will no doubt put priority on a 10th Champions League crown, having been knocked out by Roma last year, but a third league title is very appealing. They have strengthened with the signing of Rafael Van Der Vaart, who will play a key role, especially after the injury which Sneijder sustained in the Emirates Cup, keeping him out for roughly 3 months. The transfer saga of Robinho is seen as karma by many for the flirtatious manner in which the Spanish side courted Ronaldo over the summer. After a relatively low key summer in terms of spending, with De La Red bought back and Garay signed and loaned back to Racing Santander, it seems Schuster is happy with the size of his squad. Perhaps the signing of David Villa might be the key to another successful season. If they can pull it off (a figure of £41m is being touted), glory should be theirs.

Finally, for Barcelona, the old guard is gone. Coach Frank Rikjaard leaves; having won a Champions League title (something which only club legend Johan Cruyff has achieved) and two La Ligas. His players let him down with the likes of Ronaldinho and Deco rightly criticised for their poor form. Both have since left and Samuel Eto’o, after a brief flirtation with Uzbekistani side Kuruvchi, has buckled down and decided to stay. A new defence has practically been bought by new coach Pep Guardiola, with Alex Hleb also coming in from Arsenal but with Lionel Messi in front of him, it is unlikely he will start many games this upcoming season. An impressive pre-season against small sides showed their potential after it culminated in a 4-0 win in the important Champions League qualifier against Wisla Krakow. They will run the Champions closer this time around.

Has complacency set in at El Madrigal? The Yellow Submarine, led by Manuel Pellegrini has performed poorly against sides including Sevilla and Valladolid, with the latter thrashing them 5-1. Goalkeeper Diego Lopez called for self-reflection with Villarreal looking to improve on a 2nd placed finish last year. They have retained Marcos Senna, who performed a master-class in the holding role over the summer for Spain. They have signed Joseba Llorente, who will guarantee goals. The size of their squad may make challenging for the title difficult, especially with a Champions League campaign to contend with. A better work ethic from the one shown over pre-season is needed if they are to reach the heights of last year.

Sevilla under Juande Ramos were aggressive and attacking, playing wonderful football at a high tempo. After a year of mediocrity, Manolo Jimenez’s side is ready for another shot at the title. Transfer activity with Barcelona has been very common with Alves and Keita arriving at the Nou camp, while Diego Capel is also being linked to the Blaugrana. The goals of the fiery Luis Fabiano and Kanoute will be key to their challenge. They have brought in defensive solidity with midfielders such as Romaric and Acosta and defenders such as Sebastien Squillaci, Abdoulay Konko and Fernando Navarro strengthening the side.

Prediction: Real Madrid 1st, Barcelona 2nd, Sevilla 3rd, Villarreal 4th
The Champions look to have the quality and strength in depth to retain their title. Another season playing together will improve them as well. Barcelona will run them very close and are likely to win a cup instead. It becomes tricky predicting third and fourth place with Valencia also threatening to break into the Champions League slots with a new president and coach and their Euro 2008 stars.

Italy and Germany to follow. Comments are invited as usual.

The Idea Of Seniority Will Hinder Arsenal

2008-08-26T07:21:00.000-07:00

‘Shocking and disgraceful’: These are the words on the lips of many Arsenal fans after a match in which the side were well beaten and echoed the horrendous performance against the Cottagers in November 2005. Fulham were worthy of their 1-0 success and with further shrewd buys, they will avoid a relegation tussle this time around.

The game was a strong reminder of the seasons between 2005 and 2007, where the Gunners were outfought and outmuscled throughout the whole season and lost to mediocre opposition, with respect to Fulham, who played an impressive pressing game, but that is the level where Arsene Wenger’s side dropped most of their points.

Having lost midfield dynamo Mathieu Flamini to Milan, there is no sense of urgency or aggression in central midfield. It was actually only when Song came on that the side looked capable of even creating a chance. Flamini’s running forced others to make up equal ground, with the resultant movement really making it difficult for opposition teams. As the former Marseille trainee moves to Italy his current replacement, the static Denilson, had his worst game for the club, and on current form, Gökhan Inler’s reported arrival will be very well received.

There was no cohesion, with Arsenal’s best chances coming from Sagna’s crossing and the occasional opening created by the fledgling partnership between Clichy and Nasri. Any move that reached the feet of Denilson or Eboue was abruptly ended and forced the forward players to chase back and stop that inevitable second goal.

There is a theory that the one-time successful full-back is only in the side due to his age and thus the idea of seniority comes up. There are more talented, skilful players left on the bench to accommodate this ‘experience’ which Eboue is supposed to bring. It might seem ironic that a club famed for giving chances to youth is being criticised for this trait in team selection but when a lack of experience throughout the side is evident, age is seen as a determinant for experience. This means younger, better players aren’t given a chance which they apparently deserve. Arsene Wenger is a wonderful manager and the best thing that has happened to this club but his sentimental nature is affecting the side.

The quality of Eboue at full-back (even if it seems a distant memory) is certain but anywhere in midfield he is a liability, perhaps barely adequate for games against the likes of West Brom and Hull City, but he had no idea concerning positioning or when pressing the ball today. Denilson’s performance was the worst seen in an Arsenal shirt for a while. He is played as a ‘second volante’, and thus the more attacking and aggressive of his central pairing with Eboue. Yet he was moved off the ball easily and his passing was ‘disguised’ in that it was so obvious a blind man could have anticipated it.

There were no forward balls from the Brazilian, whose stagnation is mirroring the demise of the current ‘Selecao’ every day and is doing nothing to show the flair and ability that the south American nation have been renowned for. He couldn’t turn his man once and should have been subbed within half an hour had Arsene Wenger been a more pro-reactive manager. Aaron Ramsey was criticised for his performance in the win against Twente so one can imagine the poor quality of the Brazilian’s performance.

The balance of the side was poor as Wenger uses seniority of players to fit them in the starting line-up. While the starting eleven looked worryingly ineffective, the substitutions did not do much to quell concerns. Many fans see Song as a ‘donkey’, in the same way that Luzhny and Cygan were once scapegoated and ridiculed, but those who watched him on loan at Charlton and play for Cameroon in the African Cup and Olympics, will have seen a fine, purposeful player. But to bring him on at centre-back where his attacking potential will have the least impact was questionable at least.

This was the first of many problems. Why drop an in-form Djourou for an out-of-sorts Toure, who was still recovering from his bout of malaria? The idea of easing him in at right-wing in a game Arsenal could have easily drawn against West Brom could have also back-fired. These doubts were confirmed as the brittle Gallas-Toure partnership was outmuscled by Fulham’s Brede Hangeland, who poked in past Almunia. While set-pieces still present themselves as a major flaw in the side, there is strong media speculation concerning the club’s most natural defender in Philippe Senderos being touted off to Milan and Newcastle. There must surely be a grain of truth in this; otherwise the Swiss defender would have been in the squad.

Some fickle Arsenal fans have once more knocked down ‘Big Phil’ whenever they’ve had the chance, but his lack of success at the club has purely been down to the issue of seniority. Over the past few years, he has performed much better than Kolo Toure, but has been dropped on every occasion the Ivorian is fit, with Djourou now experiencing that same fate. Every time Senderos has had a sustained run in the side, they have been more secure defensively, with his style complementing one of Gallas and Toure, and forming a cohesive back four alongside full-backs Gael Clichy and Bacary Sagna

In terms of seniority, Theo Walcott is one of the older players at the club now, yet his anonymous showing over the past three games, bar an assist for Adebayor against Twente means that a place at right wing is very much up for grabs. Like Quincy (now at Birmingham), he is threatening to being labelled as a ‘speed merchant’. He clearly lacks footballing intelligence with ex-Gunner Stewart Robson even suggesting that 16 year old Jack Wilshere is the smarter player and has aspects to his game which Theo should pick up on.

If it wasn’t for fatigue after a tough pre-season which neither is accustomed to, one would hope that Ramsey and Wilshere could have played some part in the game at Craven Cottage. Yet, hypothetically speaking, if they were fully fit, why did they not play any part whatsoever, having been on the bench (with a 3rd substitution still available)? And once more the idea of seniority comes up as does the question of squad depth.

This idea extends to tactics and set pieces, with Robin Van Persie taking over all direct free-kicks, and missing every single one of them. Samir Nasri was lining up to take the final one but was denied the chance as profligate Dutchman wasted another decent opportunity. And while many criticise Adebayor for his lack of accuracy upon goal, Van Persie has been equally wasteful, overusing the power in that demonic left foot, and not using the wonderful technique and accuracy that he has when he has an opportunity. The decision to take the short corner with Nasri at a vital point in the match, rather than just hit an in-swinger, was also very misjudged with the result causing the away side to lose the ball as they did several times during the game.

It has been a number of games since the free-flowing football attributed to Arsenal has actually been displayed, and while the average age of the side is young, the call for success is present and Arsene Wenger’s young tyros will have to answer the phone. Twente at home on Wednesday is the perfect stage to begin.

New Stars To Shine In Beijing

2008-08-08T10:24:00.000-07:00

As it was in Athens four years ago, new stars were formed, especially in the shape of one Carlitos Tevez, who accumulated an 8 goal tally, the highest in 32 years. Argentina triumphed then and they are back now to defend their gold medals, with Brazil among others chasing the title which has successfully eluded them since they began they began their participation in the Olympics some 56 years ago in 1952 in Helsinki, Finland.

While some house-hold names are participating in Beijing, greater interest in the Games arises from politics, selection issues and transfer stories. The preliminary rounds began before the actual Opening Ceremony with some potential stars looking to showcase their talents and perhaps win a big money move to a European giant. Brazil have had their fair share of media attention, following the inclusion of Ronaldinho as Brazil Captain, after his high profile move to AC Milan from Barcelona.

Another curious incident is the removal of Robinho from the squad, with his side Real Madrid citing a groin strain as the reason, though the player was deemed fit enough to play in last week’s Emirates Cup. Time will tell whether a move to Chelsea is the reason behind the withdrawal of the flamboyant attacker. No doubt the biggest story concerned Lionel Messi and his club side’s reliance on him, so much so that they don’t want to take on minnows without the diminutive Argentine.

Barcelona even appealed to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) and won their case, as did Schalke concerning Rafinha and Werder Bremen concerning Diego. All three sides have allowed their players to remain at the Olympic Games, thus rendering their defence and protest an utter waste of time. The media focus on Messi has led to suggestions that Argentina’s preparations were affected, despite the plethora of talent boasted in their squad, ranging from Juan Roman Riquelme, the Boca Juniors schemer, to Sergio Aguero, Player of the Year in La Liga last year.

Brazil manager Dunga is under immense pressure after poor qualifying results in the marathon South American World Cup qualifying race. A 2007 Copa America win hasn’t been enough to remove the doubters, with the mind-numbing football being played by the side, inspired by a three-man defensive pivot of Josue, Gilberto Silva and Mineiro, which achieves little if any imaginative creative forward play. The Olympics squad is full of dynamic, creative players, such as Hernanes of Sao Paulo.

The name Anderson Hernanes de Carvalho Andrade Lima won’t be familiar at all to European football fans but the man voted best ‘volante’ in 2007 by the respected football magazine Placar. He has the ability to mark without fouling, and has a fine passing range. Oh, and he boasts a great long range shot and can dribble with ease. Trouble is, Barcelona are tracking him, but a reported fee of 25 million euros is likely to put them off. Considering no Brazilian midfielder over the age of 23 has been sold for over 9 million euros, the fee could be exaggerated or simply a reflection of how highly rated the player is.

He already has made a short cameo in the friendly with Sweden at the Emirates, in which he attempted a curling effort from distance. The classy player has already made an impact in Beijing, scoring the winner against Belgium, showing clever feet and a powerful shot to clinch as close game. The two-footed player is thought to eventually fulfil an attacking role, and his style reminds me of Edu as does his upright pose when playing. A fine goal against Cruzeiro in 2007, was very similar to Edu’s effort against Celta Vigo in the Champions League in 2004.

Other names such Pato, the teenager from Milan, his much-criticised team-mate Ronaldinho, and the likes of Diego, Breno all represent a European interest in the Brazilian side. A disappointing opening performance could be an indicator of another failure attempting to land the prize which South Americans rate most highly. Argentina, on the other hand seem quick and incisive in their passing, but the number of small players has caused concerns regard the physical side of the game. Players such as Diego Buonanotte and Pablo Piatti have great technical ability but with a side full of small, tricky players, Argentina may suffer against a physical side, such as the Brazil team they faced in the Copa America final.

Sergio Batista, the Argentina Olympics football coach, will rely on the imagination of Riquelme, a player whose mood reflects his output. Majestic at his composer-like best, and completely ineffective when put off his stride, Argentina are solely at his mercy. Playing the Boca Juniors ‘enganche’ alongside Barcelona’s Messi, has some fans disappointed, concerning the impact of the duo together, but their combination in the victory over the Ivorians, with Messi scoring from a Riquelme through-ball.

Let us not forget Sergio ‘Kun’ Aguero, who makes it a triumvirate, from which most of Argentina’s attacking patterns will emerge. The explosive forward, who has drawn comparisons with Romario scored 19 goals in La Liga, with his most memorable performance, the 4-2 win over Messi’s Barcelona in the Calderon, netting two and embarrassing the Catalonian side’s back-line. Javier Mascherano, Burdisso and Riquelme are the three overage players allowed, with the former two hoping to form a solid defensive spine.

Oscar Ustari, the next bright goalkeeping hope for the Argentinians, has many qualities but his size is an issue, with Cisse’s headed effort looping over him in a 2-1 defeat of the African nation. The Ivory Coast have a youthful squad in Beijing, epitomised by including a 16 year old keeper in the squad. Chelsea fans will be looking for the impact of Kalou, who supported the Ivorian attack, which included Gervinho (or Gervais Yao Kouassi, as he is actually called). The Le Mans striker, linked strongly to Arsenal, has been touted as the new Drogba, and he troubled the Argentineans with his powerful frame.

If it were not for England not taking up their place in the 16-team tournament, Italy wouldn’t be in Beijing. Thankfully, a young and talented side, led by ‘trequartista’ Sebastian Giovinco, should challenge for the crown, having been named as one of the favourites. The young Juventus talent, sadly not on show during the Emirates Cup, due to his Olympic commitments, has been in the middle of a contract dispute, with his agent using the issue to bring in names such as Arsenal to try and get his client a better deal. He scored a fine opening goal against Honduras, helping the side reach a 3-0 score-line. The Hondurans had a late chance to find a consolation, but their 34 year old striker Carlos Pavon blazed his spot-kick over the bar. The young Azzurri have great talent and will look to improve the reputation of the national team with a better showing than the full side did at Euro 2008.

In looking at the big names, Holland boasts the veteran Roy Makaay to lead their attack alongside Ryan Babel. The new West Brom signing Zuiverlooon will also be on display. Yet the most interesting prospect is Ismaïl Aissati, the attacking midfielder, who became only the fourth player move from PSV to Ajax, as the lure of Van Basten and Bergkamp proves irresistible. The Oranje began in a competitive match against Nigeria, but couldn’t force the break-through as it ended 0-0.

And finally, we have to look out for our very own Alexandre Song, who became a star over a fortnight in January this year, making the team of the tournament and helping Cameroon reach the final. Unfortunately, he was unable to complete the final due to injury, but now he has a chance to win the Olympics. Having risen greatly in the estimation of Arsenal fans, many of whom chastise him still based on that horrible performance at Fulham a few years back, forgetting the whole side failed to perform.

In the eyes of Arsene Wenger, Song doesn’t have the stamina to play 60 games in central midfield, but I can’t think of any players who have made that many appearances in the middle of the park. Perhaps he’ll change the mind of the manager with a strong tournament in Beijing. The Boss prefers him at centre-back but as with many of these youngsters, he too has a lot to prove, be it his ability to play in midfield or in the case of others, to prove their quality to earn a big money move. Whatever happens after a promising start, Beijing will see a new star being born.

Archive: Emirates Cup Preview

2008-08-08T10:22:00.000-07:00

Los Blancos going Oranje?

Once it was Barcelona who had the Dutch obsession, starting with Johan Cruyff in the 70s, and rightly so, the widely recognized greatest European player of all time won many trophies in his time in Catalonia and became the bench mark for future generations, much like the late Faas Wilkes before him.

Then came the Louis Van Gaal era, where the Dutch coach tried to recreate his success with a young Ajax team, which won the 1995 Champions League. The trouble is, rather than use training methods and tactics, he bought half the Ajax side and various Dutch players, betraying Catalan tradition and depriving the Barca fans the privilege of seeing local talent thrive in the side.

Players ranging from the De Boer twins to Marc Overmars moved to the Camp Nou, and caused a civil war in the Azulgrana’s minds, torn between tradition and success. And truth be told, it achieved nothing. President Gaspart and manager Van Gaal departed, allowing a new regime to be installed. Laporta brought in Rikjaard, the former AC Milan player, to start the revolution, beginning with removing the overpaid Dutchmen who achieved little in their final seasons.

He brought in fresher legs, but did use his fellow countrymen to form aspects of the squad, with Van Bronckhorst (now Feyenoord) arriving on the cheap and performing heroically at left-back. Then Edgar Davids came on loan from Juventus and added some much needed bite in the Barca midfield, catalysing some brilliant performances in the league, alongside Catalans Xavi, Puyol et al.

And now it is Real who are buying Dutch, with Robben, Sneijder and Drenthe all coming in last year. And if it wasn’t for Ramon Calderon’s obsession with Ronaldo, Van Der Vaart could have joined them in the last week or so. While Huntelaar won’t be arriving at the Bernabeu this summer, having been named captain under the new coach Van Basten and coach Bergkamp, he could do so with the Hamburg playmaker next year with clauses in their respective contracts allowing them to leave for roughly £20m and £1.2m respectively. Yet according to Marca, the Hamburg player will sign for the club next week, after negotiations in London during the Emirates Cup itself.

Perhaps it was the success of clinical attacker Ruud Van Nistlerooy that prompted the hierarchy to sign more of his countrymen, but one thing is for sure, all the signings bar Drenthe have worked very well. The versatile youngster seemed a impulse buy, when Real youngsters, such as Javi Garcia, De La Red, or Bueno, who are equally talented had another block placed in their path to the first team, one that only Casillas, Raul and Guti have successfully reached in the last decade or so.

There were some brilliant performances by Real, not least in the 4-1 mauling of arch-rivals Barca, or the thrashings of Villarreal (0-5) and Valencia (1-5) away, but over the course of the whole season there were several defeats (7) and draws (4) which coincided with Barcelona dropping points consistently in the same period allowing the Whites to extend their lead. Only Manuel Pelligrini’s Villarreal kept a sustained challenge with fewer resources and a smaller squad.

The main objective of achieving a 10th European Cup was not reached for another season as an impressive Roma defeated Real in the second round of the Champions League, thus causing Calderon (who is being challenged by Adriano Galliani of Milan for the Most Annoying Person in European Football) to start a typical media campaign with puppets La Marca, AS and Sport all being used to sign (read: unsettle) Manchester United’s Ronaldo, with the club reporting losses after the departure of Beckham took with him all commercial and marketing opportunities.

The potential big-name signing of Ronaldo is thought to be able to cover that gap and stop the club resorting to emergency loans, as they recently did. The side plays more attacking football than Capello’s cautious side did but has a large amount of defensive solidity with Casillas, Ramos, Pepe, Cannavaro and Henize making up the defence. It is their central midfield which seems to be the weak link, with Diarra and one of Guti and Gago making up the middle. Sneidjer is usually deployed wide on the right, with Robinho or Robben appearing on the left.

Up front is the classy Dutchman Van Nistlerooy, who has scored 41 in just 61 games for the Spanish Champions, who will return to face a side which has been his greatest rival during his Premiership years. Alongside him is Raul, who hit 23 goals last year in his highest scoring campaign for years, and led to the claims that he should have been in the Euro 2008 squad. There is no doubt that Aragones’ victorious squad laid those claims to rest, but the Real talisman will look to reignite them this upcoming season starting at the Emirates Cup.

Madrid have been quiet on the transfer regarding actual signings rather than media-fuelled stories regarding a certain Portuguese attacker, with Ezequiel Garay, the Argentine central defender of Racing Santander, who has a penchant for taking penalties signing before being sent out on loan to his former club. Ruben de La Red has been bought back from Getafe after an impressive season, and is being touted for £9m as Real look to solely profit on his success.

While their second league victory in the last two years looks impressive, one must realise it was the poorest La Liga in years, with perennial underachievers Atletico Madrid actually reaching the Champions league spots. They are continued to evolve their style of possession football, and the indicators point to something that is close to what the Dutch managed to play in the group stages at Euro 2008, but with a stronger holding midfield partnership.

The Spanish Champions won their first fixture 3-2 against Austrian side Linz, and after the Emirates Cup, will face Independiente Santa Fe in Columbia, Frankfurt, Valencia in the Super Cup and Sporting Lisbon in the Santiago Bernabeu trophy, before kicking their season off to defend their title.

It will be a good test for Arsenal, against a style of football which they prefer, with more space afforded to the Gunners, it will be rematch against between two improved sides since the wonderful matches in the Champions League in 2006.

New Guard in for Old Lady

The Old Lady of Turin is proving once more to have her effect on Ranieri’s squad, with a number of hugely talented youngsters either being sold or having to haggle for better contracts despite their great talent, which propelled the side from Serie B to a Champions League spot on their return to Serie A.

It seemed the Calciopoli scandal would have little effect on the football side of things, as Juve continued their tradition of success, even after the departure of several internationals. Yet such achievements and pressure on young shoulders, doesn’t seem to have had any effect on the management, who are buying older, more experienced players instead.

Palladino, who Arsenal were once reported to have an interest in, has moved to Genoa on a co-ownership deal, while Nocerino has moved to Palermo, Rey Volpato has signed for Bari. Giovinco returns from Empoli, having shined on loan, the little trequartista, is currently in contract negotiations, with Arsenal once more reportedly standing by. Others such as De Ceglie and Marchisio are also fighting for their places in the new-look squad. Juventus would be foolish to let these starlets leave as they have let others do so. Unfortunately, these youngsters will be at the Olympics in Beijing, and so the Emirates will not be able to witness their talents.

Albin Ekdal, the 19 year old Swedish playmaker has been impressive since signing from the Swedish side Brommapojkarna (tongue-twister or what?) this summer. It is hoped he will add creativity to the midfield with signings such as Tiago Mendes and Sergio Almiron not being the answer. The latter is being mooted for a move to either River Plate or Napoli, having been unable to make the step up since his move from Empoli. Alberto Aquilani of Roma has been named as a possible transfer target, as Ranieri shapes his squad for a title challenge next year as Serie A looks to have four title competitors for the first time in three years.

Like Real and Arsenal, central midfield is their problem area, with Sissoko and Poulsen both defensive minded players. The latter, famous for his tough approach to the game and spats with Totti and Kaka, was met with a poor reception, as the Juve fans protested against his signing, unaware of his technical qualities, exhibited in the 30 yard lofted pass to Iaquinta for his goal against Inter in the TIM Cup. The Danish battler will prove a tough test for any opponent and will look to win over fans with an impressive pre-season alongside Sissoko, the former Liverpool midfielder, who is one of several players dubbed the ‘new Vieira’. The Italians will have a tactical, structured style on display, one that arsenal will face next year as they look to break teams down with different options.

Yet while the future of the young, Italian talents are looking bleak, Juventus has strengthened the best strike-force in Italy, with the addition of the Brazilian Amauri for a lofty £18m fee, who is one of the rare battering-ram type forward in the game today, with Adebayor, Drogba and Adriano some of the few attackers in this mould. The Brazilian from Sicily has begun his pre-season with the Old Lady in some style netting five goals against amateurs Mezzocorona, in a 7-1 win, showing his full array of skills in an exhibition of varied finishing, including a back-heel for his fifth.

The Bianconeri defeated Dortmund 3-1 with ease despite being behind in their preparations in comparison to the German side, with Iaquinta (2) and Amauri scoring. And we haven’t even mentioned Trezeguet and Del Piero, who together netted 41 goals in Serie A. The TIM Cup saw Juve face last years Emirates Cup entrants Inter and a rejuvenated Milan, with Iaquinta defeating an anxious Inter, who had new signings Muntari and Mancini debut for the side but not perform well. They only lost to Milan on penalties after a 2-2 draw, and this highlights the strength of the side with two different XIs taking to the field in two 45 minute games.

In defence, Juventus has Giorgio Chiellini, one of few players from Italy’s Euro 2008 squad to come out with any credit, having come in after the disastrous partnership of Barzagli and Materazzi collapsed against Holland. Ironically, he was the man whose tackle put Cannavaro out of the tournament, but several tackles, interventions and clearances from the Juventino’s boots begged the question as to how the Azzurri ever did without him. The converted left-back is now partnered by Mellberg, formerly of Aston Villa, in what looks to be potentially a tough defensive partnership to break down.

And who can forget the £32m man defending the net for Juve in Gianluigi Buffon. The classy stopper became a national hero in 2006, and reaffirmed his class with a fine stop from Adrian Mutu, the Fiorentina striker, in their second Group game against Romania. Smart signings such as Grygera from Ajax have added depth to the side but not all signings have worked out well. Jorge Andrade has been desperately unlucky in fracturing his knee-cap, is out for a second consecutive season.

Juventus will be a completely different proposition from the side dismantled with ease in March 2006, with younger, more agile players replacing the old guard. The match between the two sides is likely to feature younger players and the odd veteran in Juve’s case, with the first-teamers saved for the Sunday. Either way it looks very exciting.

A Familiar Face Returns

The big man returns to the ground of the side against whom he had little to no success (unless you can call a draw a success for Spurs). Yes, Martin Jol is back, but only to face Real and Juve as Arsenal will too. He was an entertaining manager, with his first game that memorable 5-4 win at White Hart Lane, but as any fan would say, his dismissal from Tottenham was handled with a lack of class attributed to Daniel Levy, who reportedly informed him of the news before the game against Getafe which he lost 2-1.

In leaving Tottenham, he gained a certain amount of credibility by taking Hamburg to 4th spot in the Bundesliga, after the previous coach Thomas Doll was sacked after a 1-1 home draw in February 2007 with Energie Cottbus left Hamburg bottom of the Bundesliga table and obviously proved to be the last straw for the club’s board. He inherited a talented side and managed to revive their fortunes, with the main aim probably being a title challenge and Champions League football. His reception will be interesting, that is for certain.

There are a number of well-known players in the side, with many reputations enhanced after Euro 2008. Ivica Olic, the tireless Croatian forward, is supported by the classy Van Der Vaart, who is wanted by Madrid right away, but Hamburg rejected the bid, with Didi Beiersdorfer, the Sporting Director, claiming the offer was ‘absolutely ridiculous’. Others include Joris Mathijsen, the centre-back, who is partnered by the talented but injury prone Vincent Kompany.

The Belgium stopper is what many claim to be the tall commanding centre-back who is needed to stop certain types of goals, namely direct aerial balls, but personally, Cristian Zapata of Udinese is the answer, with Kompany being hyped up by fans of the ‘Football Manager’ series, when it is likely he could be a Younnes Kaboul style mistake, but these are concerns that are probably exaggerated.

Jol, who still has a permanent residence in London, will move to Hamburg this summer. His side have started preparations for the new season well, defeating Manchester City 1-0 at the HSH Nordbank Arena, with Mark Hughes side only recently beginning their pre-season. New signing Jonathan Pitroipa, a left midfielder, scored the only goal of the game in the sweltering heat.

It is easy to argue that Hamburg are the weakest of the four sides, but with practically two different sides taking to the pitch on both days, nothing is certain. The games will be key in preparation for all the teams and goals are likely to come. After this two day event, Arsenal will look to further challenges against sides of European pedigree in Ajax and Sevilla, with one more signing set to be made, and hopefully it is a partner for Fabregas in central midfield.

All that’s left to be said for this coming weekend is: Come on Arsenal!

New Generation Proves Wenger’s English Policy

2008-08-08T10:21:00.001-07:00

One thing the typical spectator will have noticed when watching Arsenal this pre-season is the increased participation of the club’s young English players in first team activities.

A new generation of players, including Jay Simpson (the League One player of the year), Gavin Hoyte, Henri Lansbury, Mark Randall and the wonderful Jack Wilshere have given Arsenal fans even more optimism (well, the optimism one can have bar a defensive midfielder and a central defender) preceding the start of the new season as they slot in beside attacking midfielders Ramsey, Nasri and Bischoff.

Many onlookers have criticised Arsenal’s foreign youth policy but it is hard to argue against it when you see Rafael Van Der Vaart signing for Real Madrid for £10.3m and a footballer who has half the talent in David Bentley signing for Spurs for roughly £17m. In the modern game, Arsene Wenger is right to feel a responsibility for the finances of the club, buying cheap, selling for a profit.

The other option would be to find a billionaire and run the club as a business making loss after loss as Chelsea have done. Peter Kenyon, the Chief Executive has spent his time voicing his concern over ‘gimmick’ players rather than attempt to balance the books for the West London club.

The News Of The World report that the club had to buy cheap and sell one big name each year caused widespread panic, but the patchwork of quotes attributed to Wenger were actually of the Frenchman speaking of the Olympic Lyonnais model and their finances. Yet starting a sentence with ‘The club…’ opened an avenue for the tabloids to report the quote in an incorrect context. And adding actual figures next to this inaccurate quote actually created controversy among Arsenal fans and an unneeded panic spiral.

Yet, while players fail to make the grade at Arsenal, they forge successful careers due to the youth training they receive at London Colney. Players including the likes of Steve Sidwell, James Harper, Fabrice Muamba, Jermaine Pennant, David Bentley, Matthew Connelly, Ashley Cole, Matthew Upson, Stuart Taylor, Jerome Thomas and countless others have successful careers as well in the top two divisions of this country. The club do well from these sales, with sell-on clauses bringing home a tidy sum, with a reported 40% of Bentley’s fee landing in the Arsenal bank account.

Yet it is this new generation that has mouths watering, with Wenger not wanting to limit the development of this new generation. This is evident through handing the 16 year old Jack Wilshere Gilberto’s no.19 shirt as he looks to make an impact on Arsenal’s season. The fleet-footed winger has been compared to many great players; with the hyperbolic claiming he is similar in style to Liam Brady, now Arsenal’s Academy Director, and Barcelona’s Lionel Messi.

Yet the closest comparison seems to be Joe Cole, who can be seen as the most free of the English midfielders in terms of creativity and style. Former Gunner Stewart Robson has even suggested his footballing intelligence has already surpassed Theo Walcott, while his trademark (cut in from the right and play a reverse pass to the striker) has shown his ability to appreciate the weight of the pass and his ball manipulation.

Any fears over his physique were dispelled by his energetic display in the Emirates Cup, as he made a wonderful cameo, embarrassing Javi Garcia, the converted Real Madrid centre-back, whilst also taking on Michel Salgado in a tussle. For an attacking player, his execution of the tackle is very clean and he is infective in his style, urging on his team-mates through his mature actions on the pitch. Do not be surprised if this youngster makes waves in the Carling Cup.

Arsene Wenger has been right in his attempts to shield the schoolboy from publicity, but the impact of his appearances have weakened his manager’s attempts to respect his development in peace. The new generation will prove the doubters wrong. Alongside foreign imports, such as the brilliant Dutchman Nacer Barazite and Spaniard Fran Merida, the depth and quality of Arsenal’s squad will increase as the youth players develop and compete for places in the first XI.

Here are a few others to watch:

Henri Lansbury – The teenager has been likened to Steven Gerrard in his style of play, and is also quite versatile but unfortunate with injuries.

Mark Randall – Alongside Wilshere is the closest to breaking into the first team. He started games against Blackburn in the Carling Cup and Sunderland in the league. Is a classy passing midfielder.

Analysis: Gunning For No.1

2008-08-08T10:18:00.000-07:00

The Goalkeeper. Pull off a remarkable save…you are showered with praise. Make a howler… get cursed to the high heavens. It’s a love-hate relationship. Jens Lehmann should know.

The goalkeeper is perhaps the only player to be defeated in the aftermath of a victory, knowing that the conceded goal could have been prevented. Therefore mental strength is a key factor in playing perhaps the most important role on the pitch. Pundits usually say a great ’keeper can bring at least six points to the cause of occupying a strong league position. In the repercussion of committing errors, a strong mind can erase the mistake and start again.

For example having been dropped soon after the end of the unbeaten run, Lehmann managed to turn his disappointment into his drive to regain his starting place (that and the lure of becoming first choice keeper for hosts Germany in the 2006 World Cup). In his error-strewn 2007/08 campaign, the German had to overcome criticism from the off, in games against Fulham and Blackburn, and later against Croatia at the Euros. Yet he kept his head up and reached the final, despite claims that he didn’t have enough match practice.

Confidence in one’s own ability can spread throughout the whole backline, resulting in assured rearguard performances. Almunia only came in after Lehmann had poor performances but his instalment into the side did not result in the 3-0 win against Birmingham in December 2004, for the Spaniard was shaky and had little communication with his back four. Compare the Almunia of then to now and you’ll see a new man and a new player. More assured in his own ability, the former Osasuna man is a solid base for Arsenal to play their style of football.

While Lehmann had a great mental belief in his own ability, being the old head in a young defence, he did not exactly spread assurance throughout the side. This was evident in his paranoid acts during set-pieces, thrown off his game, through instances as simple as having the opposition put a man on him. In a similar manner, he berated his team-mates for losing the ball in key areas, or if they passed to the wrong option. An example of this was raging at Alex Hleb in a game at Charlton, where Van Persie scored a majestic double.

Organisation skills is another attribute in great goalkeepers, but this can also be worked on the training ground, with each outfield player knowing his role, be it positionally in open play or when defending set pieces. Speed is important in this quality, especially with the worth of set pieces and the ability to take quick free-kicks. Due to the high defensive line, Almunia and Lehmann before him have often been seen as an 11th outfield player, with both having to play of their line, and join the play when necessary, whether sweeping up, like Jan Jongbloed, from the 1974 Netherlands side, who would perform a similar role, or releasing early balls in a more direct route and shifting possession swiftly. The end result is greater possession, with a keeper who is able to add to the side in an attacking sense rather than just in terms of goalkeeping. In the few seasons before this, Almunia had no idea when to come off his line; the worst consequence of this was the 4-2 defeat by Manchester United and being lobbed by John O’Shea of all people. But time on the training ground with coach Gerry Peyton has allowed him to work on this and his general reading of the game.

Fabianski on the other hand has a bravery to go for high balls and one-on-ones, and this quick decision making aids the side in the defensive aspect. But often his quick distribution affects the attacks, with the opposition still high up in our own half, and thus they can close down well, the most destructive instance of this was the defeat to Tottenham in the Carling Cup, while the inexperienced defence didn’t help either. Hesitate as Lehmann did in the first game of last season, and it could result in goals for the opposition. Another example was lack of speed, when Viduka, then of Leeds, charged down a clearance into the net during the unbeaten season, though it didn’t matter then, as we triumphed with ease.

The erection of the defensive wall has now been breached meaning reflexes and reaction of the keeper is important as the ball is not seen until very late. This is trained on vigorously and although reflexes are natural, reaction time can be improved in training. For example, Lehmann made a number of belief defying saves in the last season at Highbury such as the double save from Raul in possibly the greatest ever European match at Highbury. This can be down to improving diet and working on the same moves continuously, whilst building the body up to an optimum, as Lehmann did, being the consummate professional that he is. And so even at this veteran stage in his career, he is still able to make saves that others in this same age group would not be able to attempt.

While one ages, positioning and experience replace reflexes and agility, but eccentrics such as Arsenal’s German goalkeeper are prone to the odd error. Perhaps match rituals affect the mood of the goalkeeper. Lehmann, a very serious character, while he is a leader on the pitch (not necessarily by leading through example as the Stamford Bridge pantomime with Drogba portrays), his relationship with his competition for the number one jersey is less than comfortable to put kindly. Gabor Kiraly wore long bottoms for each game and performed well until a convincing defeat at Chelsea, where he, to Crystal Palace’s horror, wore shorts (the effect of the bottoms wore off soon after and hence Palace were relegated) It is these small beliefs that can affect a player greatly.

And a mention to the reserve: Once this was Almunia, who had played the waiting game for a number of seasons, till the point where he ‘hoped’ for a red card, and naturally not an injury…as is the case now (or not as the cynics claim). The waiting game is difficult; especially as in most cases the substitute keeper comes on the field of play, without a proper warm up and in many cases, he is not mentally prepared as David James claimed in the 4-1 friendly defeat to Denmark a few years ago.

Now it is Fabianski and Vito Mannone, who both will challenge Almunia for the number one spot. The former, is much greater prospect, and will no doubt improve and take the jersey over the next few years, but his Italian rival has less of a chance. His loan spell at Barnsley was riddled with errors, and his decision making seems poor – see his game against Barnet, although it was just a friendly. He is highly rated at the club but hasn’t proven himself yet to have a shot in the fight for Almunia’s newly found spot. There won’t be a new arrival in goalkeeping, so it will be these players who will fight it out. And if these options are exhausted, there is still the brilliantly named Wojciech Szczesny, who has already had a taste of top-flight football having appeared for his former club Legia Warsaw when he was just 15, where he was 3rd choice behind Fabianski himself.

But for now, Almunia looks to be the best bet for this next season. Have faith in the Spaniard, he will repay it.

Match Report: Szombathelyi Haladas 1 Arsenal 1

2008-07-22T12:27:00.000-07:00

The wonderfully named Hungarian side met Arsenal in Hungary as the Gunners continued to build up fitness and continued their match preparations after making a short trip from their Austrian base. Arsene Wenger had no favourites as he picked those who impressed against Barnet, and those in need of match fitness.

An interesting line-up was chosen with the Hoyte brothers paired up at centre-back. But there was no doubt that the majority of Arsenal interest fell upon Carlos Vela, who finally made his debut after loan spells at Salamanca and Osasuna. The impressive Wilshere was handed a starting berth on the left and no doubt was looking to fast-track his route into the first team. Walcott was placed out wide as Vela partnered Bendtner up front. On the bench, the rugged Simpson, who had a key role in the turnaround against Barnet, bagging a goal and an assist, was rewarded with a place on the bench.

Bendtner won the ball on the left and crossed for Vela, who failed to control but the ball fell to Denilson, who shot against the bar. The Dane was involved in the early stages but seemed to have a heavy touch and a lack of mobility as he eased himself into match sharpness. Vela then played in Walcott, who failed to execute his shot as another chance went. Clinical finishing is a must for next season as the usual chances were created.

Denilson, who acknowledged that 2008/09 will be a key one for him, started confidently alongside Ramsey, who seemed to have slotted in with great ease, looking like he had been at the club for years. The Welshman was set up by his Brazilian partner to shot from distance, but his effort was blocked and landed for a corner.

At the back, Gavin Hoyte seemed quite disturbed by any ball that was hopefully played in, completely opposite to the calm Sagna. The young defender grew into the game, making a key interception as the Haladas striker closed in. The number 17 Simon found space on the left flank as the ball ricocheted off Walcott. Kenesei then played in the same man but Sagna read the danger and covered the inexperienced Hoyte brothers.

The former Auxerre man will be hugely important in this upcoming season, with Justin Hoyte not looking positionally sound as a central defender or as a full-back. The older brother lost Kenesei who ran in and lifted the ball over Almunia to give the Hungarians the lead. Gavin Hoyte tried to cover and seemed to hook the ball off the line but the referee gave it in front of the 13,000 sell-out crowd at the Haladas VSE Stadium. Like at Underhill, Arsenal were behind once more. It was this kind of mistake that lost Arsenal points in the run-in last year and they must improve on this kind of direct ball if they are to challenge once more.

In a bid to make amends for his error, Justin Hoyte went up field and found himself a few yards from the net but sliced his kick from the corner in a very poor effort. Clichy, once more captaining the side, showed great energy in supporting the attacks but his end product was lacking. A early cross reached only the arms of the goalkeeper, while when he was played in by Bendtner, he shot into the side netting, when squaring for a team-mate could have resulted in a equalizer. Alumnia was forced into a fine save, as the defenders in front of him were lax in their concentration, allowing a dangerous cross in.

The Spanish stopper blocked the effort from the opposition striker as Haladas got more into the game. Wilshere hit a volley over from the left side of the box in a competitive tempo from the hosts. But the Gunners weren’t behind for long as Bendtner controlled a difficult long ball and played in Walcott with a fine pass to finish with aplomb, as the ball rolled in off the post. Bendtner then suffered a knock as the first half ended in an intriguing contest. Randall, Traore, Lansbury, Almunia came on for Vela, Ramsey, Hoyte and Mannone at the start of the second half, as several changes disrupted the flow of the game, as it became more cage in the opening exchanges of the second 45 minutes.

Randall, who had a goal wrongly disallowed versus Sunderland, on the final day of the season, had an early effort in the second half blaze just over the bar. The Hungarians, dressed in white shirts and black shorts, were still threatening to break the deadlock once more but when the chance came, it was Traore, who covered his centre-back and removed the ball from danger. But the youngsters were by no means being overrun as a curled shot from Lansbury was tipped over by Rozsa, who seemed as eccentric as former Szombathelyi Haladas keeper Gabor Kiraly.

Soon after the 16 year old Jack Wilshere shaped to shoot but crossed for Hoyte who failed to connect. The vision shown by the rookie at such a young age was encouraging. He certainly has great footballing intelligence, with Arsenal TV analyser Stewart Robson even suggesting he has better vision than Walcott currently. Nicklas Bendtner, much more impressive than against Barnet, made a driving run past a number of players. He played in Theo whose shot was blocked. The Dane seemed to be a slow starter who needs games to get into his stride, unlike Clichy and Sagna, who appear to have reached a high level in just 135 minutes of matches.

Soon after Jay Simpson, Francis Coquelin came on for Wilshere and Bendtner as the side found a whole new look. The new French defensive midfielder showed his physical prowess by closing down quickly, as he tried to set a higher tempo by pressing higher up the pitch, a mantra echoed by Perry Groves in commentary. Randall too, often playing second fiddle to Merida in the reserves last season, was playing in a attacking role and tried to dictate play, with many probing passes and a few shots, both of which were off target.

Peter Toth was causing Hoyte and Lansbury problems down the Arsenal right flank, with driving runs from deep buying his team space and even a chance to nick the win. The physical Hungarians were worthy of a point as they battled harder than a young Arsenal side, made up predominantly of reserves. Coquelin was closing down impressively and won the ball for Simpson to dribble and win a free kick, which Clichy whipped wide. Sagna showed why he is the best right-back in England, as he was alert to the danger after Clichy slipped, the man with the braided hair ran across to cover the cross, whilst also showing his versatility, by playing at centre-back.

Henri Lansbury then made a run down the right, beating one man and he went to ground but was denied a penalty after a strong, but fair challenge from his Hungarian marker. Coquelin made a driving run and pulled back for Simpson to shoot but his effort was blocked, as was Walcott’s follow up. The game became more stretched towards the end as both sides went for the win. Theo Walcott made a fine turn away from his man and set up Traore for the cross but the ball was met by no-one as the game ended at 1-1. This game was a good physical work-out and contest for the younger players. Both the first and second half sides had decent performances which can be seen as general improvements on the first game at Barnet.

Next up is a game against a Burgenland XI, followed by a big test against Stuttgart in their new stadium. As captain Clichy stated in a post match interview, ‘the main objective is fitness’, with integration of new signings also an aim for Arsenal. It was good to see a number of the younger players and obviously Carlos Vela’s debut. There are six days until the next game, and one should expect to see the first team then.

The Curse Of Pele...?

2008-07-11T13:06:00.000-07:00

Edison Arantes do Nascimento is widely regarded as the greatest footballer of all time, with the European view shaped by his amazing performances at the greatest stage of all: the World Cup finals, and not his club form, which may be dismissed by claiming the level of competition was low in comparison to Europe, but his side was run extremely close each year by Sao Paolo, Portuguesa and especially Palmeiras. In terms of the physical element, Santos played 31 times in 1958 between 16th July and 1st November, a run of games involving almost three games every week.

The legend of the man who scored over a thousand goals has often cast aside players who were equally brilliant or efficient in their end product. Players such as Alberto Spencer or Garrincha, who perished a genius troubled by alcoholism, all fell into the shadow of the idea that was Pele. The former outscored Pele in the Copa Liberadores, while the latter was the star of the 1962 World Cup impressing all with his outstanding dribbling ability. Brazil never lost when the man dubbed the ‘Angel with bent legs’ and Pele were in the same line-up. His myth has become so overwhelming that fans just acknowledge his position as the best ever rather than make a decision based on any footage, meaning that earlier genius such as Di Stefano, Josef Bican and others such as Cruyff and Beckenbauer were never held in such esteem either despite their ability and the size of their trophy cabinet.

Of course, the modern game is more fitness based and less on technique, but there were very rugged defenders not nicknamed ‘Tiny’ in those days, who were fighting for a living in each game unlike today, where a young player can earn £10,000 a week. Pele now earns £18 million annually, based on his image and promotion of various products such as Viagra and Nokia. The great man sadly never moved to Europe, as he was deemed a ‘national treasure’ as Eusebio also was but has had a trail of ‘new Peles’ attempt to follow his exploits. Rarely have many of these players had a similar impact but as Brazilians move to Europe from an ever-younger age any action is strongly examined by the seemingly omnipresent eye of the media, leading to a number of players seen as the ‘second coming’. Unfortunately many of these footballers are more like Matrix Revolutions than the Godfather II.

Here we profile some of those who have tried to meet the (half the) achievements of the phenomenon or have been called the new Pele by the media, even if the comparison is not warranted.

Not as media friendly (not by a long shot) as the legend but Romario became the second man to reach a thousand goals, with a number of controversial goals in matches that weren’t official, like the FIFA joint player of the century (not Maradona, if you’re wondering). He won the 1994 World Cup scoring 5 goals, with his explosive style bringing back fine memories. Fond of caricatures (on the toilets of his nightclub) of those who he has fallen out, he has had arch-enemy Edmundo and Brazil coaching legend Mario Zagallo (after being left out of the 1998 World Cup squad) drawn on. Surprisingly Zagallo failed to see the funny side and sued the temperamental striker.

When one thinks of Rivaldo, they see two sides: the con-artist and the magician. The man who collapsed in a heap holding his face in agony, as the ball was thrown at his chest against Turkey in 2002 is not the Rivaldo we’ve come to expect. It is the man who scores free-kicks with the falling leaf technique, and the one who scored that master-class of a hat-trick against Valencia once upon a time, with the famous overhead kick the pick of the lot. He was one of Barcelona’s best players in recent years, standing out as Catalonia had an influx of Dutchmen.

‘El Phenomeno’ had probably the most chance of becoming a modern day legend. The teenage Ronaldo had a stunning goal-scoring record in Holland with PSV and in Spain with Barca. 54 goals in 58 games for PSV and 47 in 49 games for the Catalan Giants, he was surely about to reach the pinnacle of the world’s greatest sport. Then came that infamous night in Paris (1998). A ‘zombie-like’ Ronaldo took to the pitch having reportedly suffered a fit of some sort in the hours leading up to the match. Since then thousands of conspiracy theories have been formed as to why he took to the pitch despite not being fit to play, such as a clause in his boot deal with Nike.

Then came the injuries in 1999 and 2000, whilst playing for Inter. The rebirth of the phenomenon came in Japan/Korea in 2002, where his goals sent a Brazil side to their fifth title. Another inflated transfer fee took him to Madrid, where he managed over a 100 goals in all competitions along with enduring jibes such as ‘el Gordo’. Even Pele himself got in on the act, to which Ronaldo retaliated calling the Brazil legend a ‘two-bob opportunist’. The descent continued as he moved to Milan, where having scored 7 goals in 14 games, as things began to look up, he suffered another cruciate ligament injury. Then came the mishap with three transvestites and the Brazilian Legend is now a free agent as his contract with AC Milan ended this summer. A seemingly unfortunate end to a man who could have emulated Pele himself.

And finally we come to Robinho, the then 15 year old, ‘a little black boy, very thin and skilful’ who Pele likened himself to. Santos had gone 18 years without winning a trophy, and Robinho, of the same age, came to the fore, in a side full of young Brazilian talent, including Elano, Diego and Alex, they brought silverware back where it belonged. His initial impressions for both Santos and Real have been mouthwatering. A 25 minute cameo against Cadiz had the Spanish press placing Robinho on a pedestal and kneeling before him. But the change in managers at Real affected the youngster as did the new country and initial separation from his family.

The kidnapping of his mother was a key reason of his decision to move abroad with his family. After a 5-0 thrashing of Ecuador in the South American Qualifiers in the Autumn of 2007, the young striker went to a nightclub with his team-mates to celebrate their success. The night out was covered by the local media, Robinho arrived late for Real’s next training session and was left out for the defeat at Espanyol. Despite the controversy, the Brazilian wizard scored twice and got an assist in a scintillating performance against Olympiakos. It was to be the turning point in his career. He has matured and started to fulfil the potential that could propel him to the very top. Having scored 15 from the wing last season, he must add a consistency to his game if he is to reach the top.

Best Of The Rest:

Diego of Werder Bremen was dubbed ‘White Pele’ after his stunning performances for Santos. Tostao claims he organizes the play better than Zico, while others have made the comparison to Deco, due to his slight physique and running style.

Anderson was known as ‘Little Pele’ on the streets as a child playing football. The tenacious midfielder was seen as a natural playmaker, but has seen his position change to a rugged all-action midfielder who only lacks goals from his game

Such was the hype around Alexandre Pato that the Milanese faithful were seeing him as the saviour to their faltering league campaign. No pressure on his 18 year old shoulders then, eh? ‘The Duck’ took it all into his stride and finished his first six months in the side with 9 goals, with more to come.

It is typical of the world press and their obsession to pigeonhole new players as replicas of more established footballers but a new precedent was set when 9 year old Jean Carlos Chera was seen as the second coming of Pele. Interest from Manchester United has been spoken of, but such attention on such young shoulders has had an adverse effect before – Freddy Adu being the obvious example.

Marta Vieira da Silva has 47 goals in 45 games for Brazil and this young star is only 22 years old. Who you ask, well this young striker is the best female footballer in the world and has even been called ‘Pele in skirts’. And when you have your own documentary Marta - Pelés kusin" ("Marta, cousin of Pelé"), especially so early in your career, you must be something special. And Marta certainly is. She has also had 68,000 spectators rise to a standing ovation in the Maracana Stadium. Not many others her age have done that.

The most recognisable face in the world alongside the boxer Muhammad Ali, fittingly, his autobiography read ‘Even people who don’t know football know Pele’. And in this modern world, where we are obsessed with comparisons to the past, we should remember each player is his own man. Pele is Pele and others will always have to suffer the burden of his name (a nickname which incidentally, he hated as a kid).

Is Huntelaar Really The Answer?

2008-07-11T10:24:00.000-07:00

We’ve gathered that he is currently one of the most prolific players in Europe, but is this Dutch striker really the ideal replacement to the seemingly Milan-bound Adebayor? He is a typical poacher, who began at De Graafschap and has worked his way around a number of Dutch clubs before signing for Ajax from Heerenveen in what was a Dutch transfer record at the time (one broken recently by another deal between the two clubs as Miralem Sulejmani arrived in Amsterdam for over 16 million euros).

The stats show his ability in one of Europe’s smaller leagues with the poacher netting 36 goals in the last two seasons. But as we’ve all come to find out, statistics are misleading with the quality of the opposition not taken into account. This is clear as Mateja Kezman actually outscored Ruud Van Nistlerooy in Holland, but upon arriving in the Premiership, we realised who had the talent and adaptability. The elder of the two scores goals everywhere he’s played: Holland, England and now Spain with Real Madrid, where he seamlessly fitted into the set-up, scoring the goals that have lead to two title triumphs after four trophyless years.

While Huntelaar is dubbed ‘the new Van Nistlerooy’, his style is much more restricted to pure finishing and finding space. In fact, he is much closer in his style of play to Inzaghi of Milan than to the Real Madrid striker. There is a common misconception that Van Nistlerooy is only a finisher, and despite his differences with Arsenal players, there was always an admiration for the Dutchman. From the perspective of the fan, even though Henry outshone him on many occasions in the scoring charts, we knew of his danger and prowess around the box. He brings players into the game, can hold up the ball and has the vision for the pass. This was evident in his wonderful displays for Holland in the group stages before their customary failure. Despite failing to score, the game against France confirmed what most doubted of the former Manchester United attacker. He was the focal point of the Dutch counter-attacks as the more mobile players supported him in attack and was lively throughout the games he played.

In comparison, Huntelaar appears to have the physique to play in this league, having bulked up over the past few years. He doesn’t have the pace that is necessary in behind to give different options to our midfield. The Milan game at home demonstrated the number of times Fabregas released Adebayor who tormented the aging Milan defence with his pace (the sheer number of times that we have tried this move has caused Adebayor’s off-side stats to rise enormously), this reported target probably couldn’t provide this option. One could also argue that Huntelaar, had he been in place of Adebayor at the death, would have buried that header, rather than hit the bar, such is his clinical nature. He is basically a more limited version of Eduardo, who has playmaking skills, versatility and pace.

It may seem that this is a critical piece on the Ajax striker but his ability to find space and time to finish would make him a valuable asset to any side. There are potential positives, with the number of chances we create, our efficiency would increase with his prowess in front of goal but would the chance actually come? His first touch is disappointing and his interplay with his team-mates seems to be limited but he certainly knows how to finish and this is predominantly what strikers are judged upon – well efficiency rather than goals, Adebayor scored 30 in all competitions but was still heavily criticised. Rather than prove his doubters wrong by playing another season and trying to better himself, he has decided to depart for ‘greener pastures’, which they won’t be.

The goal against Greece was typical of Huntelaar, finding space at the back post and tapping in, having shifted away from his marker. Dutch international central defender Barry Opdam said of Huntelaar, ‘He can easily move in between defense and our midfield, leaving most of us confused. He is smart. He can predict what his team mates do and what we will do in response. He also uses his body smartly. At the right time, before the cross or pass comes in, he’ll nudge you. That gives him those extra seconds or that extra half a yard. He has grown enormously, in particular physically’. It is this footballing intelligence and ability to lull his defender into a false sense of security that makes him so dangerous.

Klaas Jan Huntelaar is a quality striker but is too similar to what we already have and may not suit our style of play. I think Italy would suit his style of play in a more rigid and tactical game, as equally as I think it will restrict Adebayor’s potential.

There have been other names mentioned, such as Roque Santa Cruz, and while one could claim that he would fit right in due to his injury prone nature, his style of play, like Huntelaar is incompatible to ours. Adebayor seems to have been pigeonholed into the same bracket as Santa Cruz but the Togolese man’s game is far more expansive. Santa Cruz plays in a side, where the favoured pattern of play is to shift the ball wide and cross. The majority of his goals have been from aerial circumstances, much like Nicklas Bendtner this season.

For Bayern, his goals-to-games record was very poor, and it is easy to see that their game is closer to Arsenal’s style than Blackburn’s is. Former Blackburn boss Mark Hughes astutely saw Santa Cruz’s attributes and saw him fit in swiftly into a side that plays to his strengths. The type of chance created at Arsenal and the angles formed for the shot are different due to the way we play (i.e. less direct) and so he would probably be less effective in comparison to a roaming, mobile forward with physical presence, a ‘battering ram’ if you will. It is likely that if we sign a replacement, he will come from France, someone like Gomis (or at a huge stretch - Benzema) seems a realistic target.

One thing that is disappointing is the manner in which our resolve has seemingly dwindled away. This might not actually be the case, as Wenger may have already have found a replacement. The endless list of attacking midfielders being linked to us is worrying, especially with Invincible Gilberto (only Toure and Clichy will remain) set for a move to Greece or to surprisingly rejoin Dennis Bergkamp at Ajax, and with Flamini and Diarra gone, a new defensive midfielder is a priority. Despite all the striker talk and rumours of player departures, one thing is for sure. Denilson and Diaby will have to step up this upcoming season and fulfil their potential and repay the boss, the faith he has shown to them.

Update: According to Spanish tabloid Marca, Real Madrid have secured first option on Huntelaar. And 'according to Marca' means take this news with a huge amount of caution.

Euro 2008: Final Matchday Round Up

2008-07-11T10:23:00.000-07:00

Germany vs. Spain

Everything has to come to an end. Tonight, one of the most thrilling tournaments in football history will end, hopefully in the most enticing, dramatic fashion. There was an Arsenal presence on either side, with Cesc Fabregas supporting Torres in attack against his soon-to-be ex-team-mate Jens Lehmann, who will join Stuttgart on July 1st. Both must have been hoping for their first piece of silverware since the 2005 FA Cup.

Germany disposed of their fellow favourites Portugal with a pressing game and their use of the aerial ball and set pieces, with Klose and Ballack netting with headers. Joachim Low’s side also gave a reminder of their technical ability in Schweinsteiger’s opening goal, showing they have that intriguing quality, we English call ‘grit’ and the necessary technical ability. Moreover Michael Ballack was declared fit to start, a player who has been lavished with praise this summer, averaging 12 miles a game. The German captain is deceptive with his movement on the pitch, especially when viewing the game on television. One hopes he can complete the 90 minutes on a stage with is fitting of his talents, having been suspended for the 2002 World Cup final.

For their efficient style of play, with the needed ball always played accurately and always finished with aplomb, their defensive play has little to be admired, with the fear that Mertesacker and Metzelder likely to troubled by the pace and industry of Torres always in the back of the German mind. Or will they? The psychology of major games is a huge factor, with the white shirts so successful in major tournaments, last triumphing in 1996 thanks to Oliver Bierhoff, now the team manager of the national side. Despite their lack of progress in Euro 2000 and 2004, it is a testament, partly to their history and predominantly their qualifying campaign and their 2006 showing, as to their pre-tournament backing. Spain, who last reached a final in Euro 1984 and lost 2-0 against Platini’s france, and last triumphed in 1964, in a side inspired by Luis Suarez, may have felt under greater pressure to make history.

Against them, the Spanish side were shorn of David Villa, the current top scorer with 4 goals, but Fabregas was brought in to influence the attacking play alongside Catalan duo Xavi and Iniesta. The size of the Spanish team was a concern despite their technique, as Xavi claimed of his fellow midfielders: ‘Passing is in our DNA’, with the short midfield of Portugal overcome by the Germans in a physical contest. Spain have a much more varied approach to their neighbours and this intriguing contest between two differing styles appeared to make for a fitting end to this enthralling three weeks.

Real Madrid’s Sergio Ramos has often been compared to the legendary Paolo Maldini but this comparison looks false especially on the basis of his positional play throughout the tournament and his defensive assurance with a poor back-pass to Puyol intercepted by Klose, who overran the ball as he raced into the box. The Germans had more of the ball and pressed hard as they made the more impressive start, with Ballack beating Puyol to the ball and flashing a cross in, which reached no-one. But for all their industry it was Spain, who created the first chance, as Xavi cut open the German defence with a slide-rule pass inside Friedrich, who was beaten by Iniesta as he cut in. The Barcelona playmaker drove the ball into the box and it almost hit the net, deflecting off Metzelder. Lehmann, who has been criticised for error-prone displays throughout the tournament, proved that age is no barrier, with a stunning reaction save to keep the score at 0-0. Aragones’ side grew into the match, using the running of Torres down the channels to create space in the German defence allowing time for the midfield runners to support him in attack. Sergio Ramos crossed at the far post over the head of the giant Mertesacker for Torres, who headed against the post with Lehmann beaten. Fortunately for Low’s side, the rebound evaded any red shirts. Germany countered as Ballack’s effort was blocked in the box by Ramos. Torres made runs from early passes as Spain looked to bypass the German midfield, but on both occasions he was denied by well-timed sliding challenges from Mertesacker.

The Liverpool man, overshadowed by the clinical nature of David Villa, continued to torment the German defence, as he ran onto a fine pass from the ‘quarter-back’ Xavi, and outmuscled Lahm to finish with aplomb over Lehmann’s dive as the net rippled. The Red half of the Ernst Happel Stadium shook the stands with a flare going off and covering a part of the stadium in a mist. They would have been rejoicing once more, as Iniesta clipped a cross to Silva at the far post, but he sliced his volleyed effort high and wide. Germany had a few set-pieces, which we unsuccessful as they attempted to equalize, but the aerial threat of Ballack was not present as he had to be attended to after a cut by his eye. Spain closed down any German attack and countered in numbers with Xavi playing in Iniesta on the left flank, but he could not find the space to cut the ball back to Torres.

The second half began with Marcel Jansen, disappointing in his defensive game in the group stages, but adventurous in supporting the attack, replacing Lahm as Low attempted to perhaps pin back Sergio Ramos, who was supporting the Spanish attack. A Spanish corner reached David Silva at the far post. The Valencia wideman had time to control and shoot and his shot was almost turned in by Ramos. Spain almost doubled their lead with a move involving the same players as Xavi played in Torres once more, but this time Lehmann gathered. Soon after, the Real Madrid full-back stormed forward and lashed in a cross across the goal, but it was Germany who began to take the initiative. Jansen passed to Schweinsteiger in the centre, who laid the ball off for Ballack to shoot into the side netting.

Aragones, in his last game as Spainish coach, showed once more that he was not afraid to take off the big players, as he has done with Torres in the past few games. He replaced Fabregas and Silva with Alonso and Cazorla respectively. Ramos then had a header tipped over by Lehmann at the back post, after horrible defending by Jansen playing on his fellow full-back. Iniesta had a chance from the resulting corner and after it was played short, he hammered a shot to the near post. A combination of Frings on the line and Lehmann denied the Barcelona man, who had another chance soon after. Cazorla fed the tricky attacker but his shot was straight at Lehmann and lacked pace.

Frings then curled a free-kick into the box, but Casillas punched well clearing any danger. The Real Madrid keeper was assured at any high ball, clearing any set-piece or cross with ease, showing why he is rated the best in the world. Xavi released Torres once more, who knocked the ball past Mertesacker, but overhit his touch, allowing Lehmann to gather in what was becoming a typical move for the Spanish. They continued their dominance as Xabi Alonso made a first time volleyed pass to his club team-mate Torres from a lofted ball but the striker couldn’t reach. Low brought on Gomez for Klose in his final throw of the dice but the Stuttgart attacker barely had a touch of the ball. Santi Cazorla of Villarreal crossed to the far post where Guiza stood. The 27-goal Mallorca man headed back across to Marcos Senna, who was inches away from connecting and making it 2-0. Xavi was involved in a late move, but rather than shoot the last man elected to play in Xabi Alonso, who couldn’t reach the ball. The four minutes of stoppage time ended as Roberto Rosetti blew for the final whistle in a score-line that didn’t reflect the Spanish dominance. Iker Casillas held aloft the Henri Delauney trophy as the fireworks began and the champagne rolled.

It was fitting that a side that adopted an attacking philosophy came out victorious in a tournament that promoted attacking football that was aesthetically pleasing. The goals to games ratio increased from 2.30 in the 2006 World Cup to 2.53 in Euro 2008 showing a clear indication of the forward-minded mature of the majority of the 16 sides that began the tournament on June 7th. The organisation by the host nations Austria and Switzerland was exceptional and only added to the viewing experience of the tournament. They last won this tournament 44 years ago, but that elusive World Cup still awaits their talents. We should offer commiserations to Michael Ballack, after an agonizing season, in which he lost three trophies, similar to the 2001/02 season, in which his side was beaten on three fronts, while Germany lost against Brazil in the final. An exceptional player, if not one of the most unlucky.

Aragones celebrates his 70th birthday with this deserved triumph, having been heavily criticised for his decisions throughout his four year reign, such as dropping Real Madrid talisman Raul, but now he is likely to be afforded the freedom of the country after ending so many years of hurt and under-achievement. Finally, our own Cesc, ending his club season on a low, should be very optimistic and on a mental high note come the new season. The Arsenal maestro gave an eloquent interview to the BBC revealing his joy and acknowledgement to their success and its place in Spanish history. In two years time, one is likely to bet the media will compare England’s hopes in South Africa to Spain in 2008, with it being 44 years in 2010 since the 1966 triumph.

A final word goes out to John Motson, who bowed out from live commentary on the BBC, after a long and illustrious career beginning in modest radio roots and ending on the biggest stage. But it was Spain’s day and Spain’s summer. Sport is by no means short in summer 2008, with the Olympics soon to begin and Wimbledon underway.

Germany 0 – 1 Spain

Euro 2008: Matchday Seventeen Round Up

2008-06-25T13:56:00.000-07:00

The Turks were reeling from injuries and suspensions that Fatih Terrim joked that he would have to play a reserve goalkeeper to make up the numbers – a point many media outlets took literally (N.B. Mr. Redknapp, this is correct usage of the word). Nihat, the explosive little striker was ruled out of the tournament with a thigh injury, but his replacement Semih Senturk looks to be a big game player scoring vital equalizers against co-hosts Switzerland and that last minute effort against the delightful Croatians. The Turkish side has a great belief but the number of set-backs may have weakened their psychological state. In contrast, complacency may have crept into the German side, as it did against Croatia, but following consultation with the senior players, coach Joachim Low changed to a 4-5-1 allowing Ballack to thrive in his favoured role.

Turkey may have been written off but as this wonderful tournament shows, nothing is certain. Germany started confidently as they passed the ball around in the Turkish half, as the red shirts couldn’t roam into the German half in the opening minutes. Topal and Zan seemed uncertain but it wasn’t important as Kazim, the naturalised Turk took an early shot, which was straight at Jens Lehmann. Soon after, the English-born youngster crossed in a ball that was poorly cleared by Lahm as Altintop, his Bayern Munich team-mate (several of the Turks ply their trade in Germany) stole in and shot but Lehmann blocked. The Turks had settled and continued their onslaught as they kept possession and worked the angles with Sabri, the right-back swinging the ball back to the Brazilian born Aurelio, who chipped a pass into the box, which fell by the by-line. The ball was laid back to Kazim, who rattled the bar with his fierce shot.

Terrim’s side was wonderful to watch with a stunning work ethic that dominated Germany, who missed the tempo-setting Torsten Frings, apparently still not fit to start having suffered a fractured rib. A simple cross was worked cleverly from the right flank and reached Kazim, whose shot looped up onto the bar. Boral, equally industrious in his running bundled the rebound through the legs of Lehmann, who seemed helpless, perhaps expecting a harder shot, but no doubt the press was rejoicing at the chance to knock down the controversial goalkeeper. Soon after Semih had his shot from the edge of the box block for a corner that Aurelio almost nodded into the net in a period of sheer dominance. But the stereotype of the Germans came through as they levelled with their first meaningful chance. Podolski crossed from the left to the near post, where Schweinsteiger added the deftest of touches to lift the ball into the net (after ghosting in from the right with a clever run), leaving the veteran Rustu helpless. Topal tried to block but couldn’t make up the ground.

Altintop was very influential in his preferred central role, as his overhit free-kick fooled Lehmann, who managed to stretch out an arm and palm the ball over for a corner. The Bayern playmaker then made a darting run as he continued to control the pace of Turkey’s game. At the other end, Hitzelsperger played in Podolski down the left flank, with Sabri, the full-back nowhere to be found. Klose ran at ‘break-neck’ speed to support him but his club team-mate, having not seen his run, elected to shoot. In another instance, he spread the play wide to Kazim, whose end product was for once lacking as he completely miscalculated his cross and whacked it into the stands. The former Brighton player won a free-kick after another tussle in what was becoming an intriguing battle with Lahm down the Turkish right flank. Lehmann, still of Arsenal until July 1st, made a punch from Boral’s fierce free-kick (from an acute angle), as he partially redeemed himself for his earlier error. Soon after, this highly eventful game took an ugly turn after a clash of heads between Rolfes and Akman, with the former bleeding from a nasty cut.

Friedrich then made a last-ditch, desperate poke at the ball as Altintop was played in after a clever give-and-go with the striker Semih as the static defence was once more exploited. The full-back was at fault like Lehmann for the opening goal as he failed to pick up his man Boral. The half ended with Joachim Low the more worried of the two coaches. He responded by taking a huge risk in bringing on Frings, who was still recovering from his rib injury but the difference was immediately evident as the Germans seemed to press harder. It seemed fine that an Austrian was taking charge of a semi-final but if he wasn’t good enough under the immense pressure, then why appoint him? He bottled a major decision as he denied Germany a penalty (or even a free-kick) as Sabri clattered into Lahm on the edge of the box. The referee tried to stop the boos by booking Semih for a challenge but the question as to why UEFA didn’t appoint the best referees must have surely risen in the minds of some of the fans and the coaches.

One disappointment was the BBC, as they still persisted with John Motson. The man so familiar with the sheepskin coat first mistook Boral for Topal and mentioning Kazim when Semih had the ball. The veteran man had problems distinguishing David Silva and Marcos Senna in the fourth quarter final so this issue was nothing new. A power failure, which affected all television outlets cut the picture showed the difference in the quality of commentating between 5live and BBC One, with Chris Waddle surpassing Mark Lawrenson in every aspect of being a summariser. It’s time to pass the mantle to another commentating team.

Germany were more prominent but the wing play of Turkey still caused immense problems for the opposition defence. Kazim made a wonderful turn from two defenders and appeared to have his shirt pulled by Lahm in the box, but the manner in which he fell meant the claim was waived away. On the other flank Boral ran onto a lofted pass and cut inside Friedrich, who was having a poor game like the rest of his defence. The Turkish winger then shot rather than pick a team-mate, with his effort collected by Lehmann, at the first time of asking. Just as when the game seemed find a new consistency in terms of television coverage, first we lost coverage and then Klose headed in, as Rustu ran out when there was no need) once more disturbing the experience of watching the match. What was encouraging is that the BBC seemed to stick with 5live coverage, which was much more impressive, especially as it included Alan Green commentating in a game with no Liverpool presence.

Turkey just don’t know when they’re beaten do they? Senturk proved his burgeoning reputation as a big game player by stealing in at the near post from Sabri’s cross as Lehmann waited to gather. Sabri was typical of Turkey, poor defensively, great in an attacking sense. The thick-skinned Stuttgart signing seemed most likely bear the brunt of any criticism in the morning papers, but Lahm who let Sabri in down his side atoned for his error in a fine move from the left flank and he swept home confidently from Hitzelsperger’s through ball, as Germany seemed to steal the win in an unconvincing performance. Kazim appeared to turn his knee when tracking Lahm’s run as Metin came on in the dying stages. His only contribution was to fire over a free-kick, their last chance as referee Massimo Busacca blew the final whistle.

As I previously wrote on a previous post, the semi-finals and the final will be the making of this tournament and so far it is adhering to the call, in this brilliant end to the first semi final. While Germany stumbled into the final, it is the brave losers that this tournament willl remember, at least for a while. The Dutch also delighted us, but what this tournament needs is a side playing fine, technical football to triumph. On current evidence, we need one of Spain and Russia to lift the Henri Delauney trophy. But knowing the Germans and their winning mentality, a fourth win is very, very likely.

Germany 3 – 2 Turkey FT

Euro 2008: Matchday Sixteen Round Up

2008-06-22T14:37:00.000-07:00

Spain vs. Italy

It had been well documented in the pre-match build up that Spain had failed to defeat Italy in a major tournament since the 1920 Olympics. Aragones’ side had defeated the Italians in a friendly in the build up to this tournament, but they must do it when it counts as Aragones is only one win away from being statistically the most successful Spanish manager in their history, with the win over Greece, his ninth in a row, a run not matched by the national side since 1927. The manager has been in the news recently for dismissing the absence of Gattuso, getting into an alleged row with Ramos for his off-the-pitch life style, and even getting riled up by a Spanish radio station, which was acting as an Italian one, causing the controversial coach to declare his side would win 4-0.

The Italians always come into form in the latter stages of the tournament, but the blow of Pirlo must have affected their preparation, allowing the promising Aquilani to come in. Aragones, 70 next month, played the side that started against Russia and Sweden. Iniesta dribbled with fine balance and drew in defenders as he reached the corner flag on the left flank, before crossing. The Italians cleared easily and broke with Grosso down their left, but David Villa made up the yards to slide in and win the ball. Toni had a huge physical and aerial advantage against Puyol and Marchena, winning a free-kick, which he failed to connect with as Casillas gathered. ‘La Furia Roja’ searched for angles for the telling ball as Silva played a one-two down the inside-left channel and his deflected shot looped up for Buffon to catch.

The Italians appeared to defend deep and deny Spain their greatest strength, pace in behind. Thus Xavi and his fellow midfielders had plenty of possession but no direction in their play as they patiently waited for any opening. Donadoni’s side soaked up any pressure and looked to break using the volatile Cassano and Perrotta as outlets to supporting Toni. Torres found space on the right flank but Ambrosini robbed him off the ball with a fine tackle. The Milan midfielder then appeared to catch Villa from behind inside the box, as Lyon’s Grosso cleared. Perrotta, who thrives off Totti’s supply for Roma, made a clever run unnoticed to meet Ambrosini’s cross but his effort was tame as Casillas grabbed his header.

Ramos, criticised for his positioning in conjunction with his centre-backs, and his poor judgement as regards when to bomb forward was caught on the ball as he tried to drive forward by Ambrosini, who swiftly crossed for Toni, but the effort was out of the Bayern man’s reach. Villa was then fouled at the other end and took the resulting free-kick, shooting low under the wall for Buffon to clutch gratefully, having seen it late. Valencia’s Silva found himself popping up on the right, before he cut in and shot; Buffon smothered his effort comfortably. His fellow wide midfielder Iniesta then blazed a shot over as the game threatened to increase its pace. It was likely to be more tactical than the three previous quarter finals.

As the first half came to a close, there were a number of good chances as Cassano created space on the wing and crossed accurately to Toni, whose header was blocked by Marchena. Soon after, Torres broke down the opposite end and cut in, fooling Zambrotta with a sharp turn but the Liverpool hitman’s shot was blocked. The rebound fell to Silva, who shifted inside and shot just past Buffon’s right hand post. The clever Spaniard was reminiscent of Rosicky, when fit (if you can remember that far back) when he cut inside and shaped to shoot. While Spain struggled against Sweden, Italy were even more of a challenge. Cassano and Aquilani tucked in with the holding central midfield duo of Ambrosini and De Rossi, to add numbers in their defensive effort.

Panucci’s clearance fell to Silva at the beginning of the second half, who turned but was brilliantly blocked by the imposing Chiellini of Juventus. Torres then chased the ball down the left flank and competed with Panucci for it. He shrugged off the Roma man and turned inside, but his attempt to cross for Villa, free at the far post, was blocked by the first man. As Spain pressed, a Xavi corner was played back to Marchena, who blazed over as he attempted to imitate Denis Kolodin’s long range efforts against Holland. Both sides made changes as Camoranesi came on for Italy and Fabregas and Cazorla replaced Barcelona duo Iniesta and Xavi. De Rossi’s lofted ball into the box created panic as Casillas raced off his line to challenge Toni, who sparked a scramble in the box with his persistence, ending in Juventus winger Camoranesi shooting, with Casillas making a vital block on the line with his feet.

More space was apparent in the game as John Motson showed his age in frequently referring to Marcos Senna as Silva, a mistake non existent in the first half. This adds to the growing belief that Jonathon Pearce should replace him as the main commentator. Villa then took another free-kick that clipped the wall and landed on the roof of the net. Italy were beginning to create more chances as Zambrotta crossed for Toni, who beat two men but headed over. Fabregas began to influence the game positively, playing earlier passes, with one lofted pass out to Torres, who controlled well and forced a corner, and upping the tempo of Spain’s game. Senna then took over free-kick duties, temporarily at least, and his effort was punched away by Buffon, who was behind the goal-line. The Brazilian-born defensive midfielder had another strike, which squeezed under Buffon and touched the post, as the captain made an uncharacteristic error.

At the other end, substitute Di Natale, of Udinese, crossed to the back post, where Grosso was running in but Toni, unaware of the full-back’s run attempted an overhead kick and took away the chance for either to shoot. Aragones brought off Torres, who couldn’t reproduce his Liverpool form against the World Cup winners, for Dani Guiza, the 27 goal Mallorca striker. The big target man appeared to handle the ball as he controlled a cross from Villa, while his effort was blocked by the alert Buffon, although it didn’t matter as he was penalised. In the final minutes of injury time, a ball from the right flank by the brilliant Fabregas went over the Italian defence as Villa looked to pounce but his control let him down. Once more extra time beckoned.

Camoranesi made a fine dribble and attempted to play in Di Natale but his pass was blocked enabling Spain to start a counter-attack, as Villa crossed for Guiza to head back to Fabregas, whose first time effort was saved, as he popped up in the forward positions he frequently adopts for Arsenal. David Silva had a better attempt as he fired just wide from the rebound. Italy attacked as Marchena just knocked the ball away from Toni’s path, while Casillas tipped over Di Natale’s header for a corner. Luca Toni headed over at the near post with a clever attempt. David Villa slipped in the box but had the composure to back-heel the ball into Fabregas’ path, whilst still on the turf but Zambrotta eased the Arsenal maestro off the ball. The playmaker was then found offside as he continued to support the strikers, something Xavi failed to do, but his eventual meaningless effort was slapped aside by Buffon, who simply stuck out an arm, showed a lack of composure in front of goal on Cesc’s part.

Guiza was played down the right flank by a simple ball from the back, but the Mallorca striker dragged his shot wide, as he failed to look up with Villa supporting. In the second half of extra time, Silva played in Villa, whose first touch was poor, but his pace allowed him to atone for his original error and he shot at goal, forcing a corner as Buffon raced off his line. In the final minutes of extra-time the game became very stretched with Ramos having to play inside as Toni began to favour the space between the Real man and Puyol. The long haired full-back was aerially combative and sharp in the key moments. Cazorla of Villarreal broke down the left flank in the final minutes and his cross-shot went wide as Villa tried to connect, causing it to go to penalties. As the BBC came up with a wonderful statistic that Spain had lost three penalty shoot-outs on the 22nd of June (in 1986 against Belgium, 1996 vs. England, and in 2002 vs. South Korea). Now Spain came up against the most impressive keeper in Euro 2008.

Villa was the first to take the long walk to the spot and scored confidently, followed by Grosso, who curled it past Casillas’ right, the same corner Villa went for, as did Santi Cazorla. De Rossi, who scored in the World Cup final in Berlin, had his shot palmed away. Senna fired centrally, while Camoranesi confidently hit the ball into the top right-hand corner. Guiza, who replaced Torres, had his shot saved by Buffon. Di Natale couldn’t capitalise as Casillas guessed correctly once more. And it was up to Arsenal’s Cesc Fabregas to take the deciding kick. He sent the brilliant Buffon the wrong way confidently. I personally didn’t really see the playmaker as a penalty taker, but he sent the Spanish into the semi-finals. A re-match with Russia beckons as all the history and all trivia were proved, well, trivial.

Cesc deserved the glory with his contribution on the game, perhaps winning him a place against a much improved Russia, in a game which should provide an equal, but more balanced dose of entertainment to the viewers. It is the semi-finals and the finals which this tournament will be remembered on. Let us hope they are memorable indeed.

Spain 0 – 0 Italy FT (a.e.t) (Spain won 4-2 on penalties)

Euro 2008: Matchday Fifteen Round Up

2008-06-21T14:50:00.000-07:00

‘Hiddink against his homeland’ - That was how the press had billed it. Arsene Wenger claimed any advantage for the Russians would be a psychological impact on the Dutch players thinking he would have some sort of inside knowledge. Of course these were all theories. Holland were unchanged from the side that overcame the World Cup finalists, with Robben suffering a recurrence of a groin problem. Russia started with a 4-4-2, of course this was only a formation on paper, as it was with the Dutch, during the game, there were likely to be positional changes to create wonderful football. Fitttingly, it was a rematch of the Euro 88 final between the two nations, on the very day which Van Basten scored a stunning volley, in what is seen as the most break-taking goal in Euro history.

Early on Dirk Kuyt, who complemented the technical style of some of his fellow midfielders with sheer running and hard graft, headed over after Van Bronckhorst crossed from the left. His fellow full-back, equally impressive in his attacking power and drive, hit a free-kick after Arshavin was fouled on the edge of the area. It had Van Der Sar scrambling across and the European Cup winner pushed it away for a corner. The Russians looked a slick outfit, as Kolodin’s goal-bound drive was deflected wide. The white shirts attacked once more, finding Semshov on the right flank, whose cross was headed over by the enigmatic Pavlyuchenko, outrageous one minute, frustrating the next.

Holland tried to build from the back but the pressing of the Russians denied them the space afforded to them by the bigger sides. The set up of the game allowed Russia to play their typical counter-attacking style, while Holland were forced to play a possession style unsuited to their set-up. The Russians looked more defensively aware from their naïve display in their opening game against the Spanish. Aniukov made a poor defensive header and Van Nistlerooy headed back in towards Sneidjer, who shot with the outside of his foot to the far corner but Ignashevich came across to made a vital block to keep the scores level.

The Dutch got in behind by a long ball, so unlike the style typically associated to them, as Bouhalrouz won a corner, which was cleared to Engelaar who steered his shot wide. Soon afterwards, Kolodin was unfortunate to give away a free-kick on Van Nistlerooy. Sneidjer took it and both De Jong and the Real Madrid striker both missed it by a whisker. At the other end, Arshavin broke and cut in and forced Van Der Sar into a world class save, tipping it past the post. Soon after Denis Kolodin tested the Dutch captain with two vicious strikes from long range, the former forcing him to knock it over, the latter causing him to scramble across as it threatened to dip.

Boulahrouz then played in a pass to Van Nistlerooy, who turned his man, and despite almost slipping, he kept his composure to shoot across Akinfeev, who parried straight into the danger area, but the defence cleared as the Dutch were about to pounce. Kolodin, impressive as he pushed up for any chance of a pot-shot at goal, displayed his defensive flaws by poking the ball when under pressure straight to Van Der Vaart, who shot immediately, albeit straight at Akinfeev, who elected to punch as usual. The second half began as the industrious Kuyt was taken off for Arsenal’s Van Persie, who appeared to add mobility and attacking flair immediately as he drifted in to end a finely crafted Dutch move, but unfortunately sliced his volleyed effort from Van Nistlerooy’s flick.

Once more Van Der Vaart’s deliveries from set-pieces troubled the Russians, whose defensive frailties were evident on occasion despite a huge improvement since their opening game. On this occasion, De Jong ran around the back and failed to connect once more. Heitinga was then brought on for Boulahrouz, who ran off to rapturous applause after the tragic death of his daughter ealier in the week. Holland fell behind as their right flank was adapting, with Arshavin cutting in and then playing a reverse pass down the same flnak for Semak to cross. Pavlyuchenko connected with a first-time shot past Van Der Sar as the Russians extended their fine performance to goals.

It was this situation the Dutch had not found themselves in previously. This was the first occasion in which they were a goal behind. The question of character came to the fore, with Van Basten’s side against arguably a weaker team (based on reputation alone), who afforded them little space. Van Persie cut in from the right and blazed a shot over, while later he won a corner and headed wide under pressure from Zhirkov, with Akinfeev stranded. The Russians showed their fluid movement as Pavlyuchenko lifted the ball into Anuikov’s path, and as he controlled, the angle closed but he forced the keeper into sharp stop. Van Nistlerooy was fouled on the edge of the area, as Kolodin was booked, meaning he will be suspended from any potential semi-final involvement. Sneidjer looked to take the free-kick but it was Van Persie who blazed it over, as he struggled to make his frequent involvement count.

Holland weren’t able to get in behind Russia and had possession in areas far from Akinfeev’s net, and thus, they were reduced to shots from long- range, with Van Der Vaart having one such attempt straight at the 22 year old keeper. Russia continued to attack as Pavlyunchencko exploited Mathijsen’s error but his attempted lob was blocked by the brilliant Van Der Sar. The eastern European nation tried to walk the ball in, creating brilliant angles as Zhirkov’s final ball was taken off the target as the net gaped. Sneidjer continued to take shots from long range but they all fell wide or were blocked by the white shirts. Only five minutes remained when Pavlyuchenko was penalised for using his hand to control the ball. Sneidjer whipped a brilliant ball in to the far post to Real Madrid team-mate Van Nistlerooy, who nodded in for his 33rd international goal to equal with Johan Cruyff, arguably the greatest ever to play the beautiful game.

Zhirkov’s driven cross cleared off the goal-line by Ooijer, as Russia reminded their opponents of their clear attacking threat and intent. Lubos Michel appeared to send off (for a second booking) Kolodin for a challenge on the brilliant Sneidjer, but to his credit reversed the decision following consultation with the linesman, who was focussed for a vital decision, as extra time loomed. The tireless Sneidjer, who Real Madrid would be idiotic to sell (especially after he confirmed his desire to stay, just recently), burst past a defender and shot, as his team-mates failed to support his run, only to Akinfeev’s chest. Once more the former Ajax playmaker found his club team-mate after a sharp turn, but Van Nistlerooy aimed his shot over. Van Persie cut in and played a one-two with the prolific Real striker, but his weak shot was deflected by Ignashevich but Akinfeev gathered.

Pavlyuchenko cut in from the left flank and hit a fine right-foot shot at the near post that rattled the crossbar as the Russians showed their flair. The brilliant Arshavin, burst past his marker and cut back precisely for the substitute Torbinksy, who side-footed into Van Der Sar’s clutch. Kolodin smacked a free-kick just past the post as the game opened up with chances at both ends. The first half of extra-time ended as penalties loomed with the record of one success in five looming over the Oranje. Zhirkov beat Heitinga with ease and cut into the penalty area. He appeared to be felled but Lubos Michel ordered him to get up.

Arshavin dribbled with wonderful balance, constantly changing pace and unhinging Heitinga as he reached the by-line to cross. The ball stayed in play and bent over Van Der Sar to fall for Torbinsky, who tapped it into a open goal, having been booked earlier meaning he’d miss the semi-final. The world class Arshavin, who surely has increased his range of suitors from Everton and Newcastle to the likes of Arsenal and Bayern, turned in the box and slotted home through the legs of Van Der Sar at the near post, a disappointing end to a illustrious international career. The little maestro cared until the final minute, showing brilliant character as he fought for every ball. A quarter final in the Euros had always gone to penalties when it went into extra-time – until now that is. Hiddink’s ‘Russian Revolution’, (yes, get used to it, it’s a phrase you’ll be hearing for some time) deservedly put out Holland, who seemed strangely disjointed as Van Basten’s reign ended.

They couldn’t cope with another counter-attacking side, which played with the pressing reminiscent of their group stage games, and the off-the-ball running that was compatible with the vision of the more creative players. They may be defensively vulnerable, especially aerially, but their attacking play, with Anuikov and Zhrikov bombing down the flank, mobility in midfield and attack. They had the threat from long range, with Kolodin, while not so assured defensively, hit long range free-kicks, like Koeman, Witschge and De Boer in Dutch history. The Russians were giving reminders of Holland circa 1974 as they claimed revenge against their 1988 conquerors. Hiddink claimed that he would willingly become ‘traitor of the year’ for a Russian win, and with a £400,000 bonus for reaching the quarter finals, another healthy dose of roubles must have been added to his bank account.

Once more the Dutch choked when it mattered, the only comfort an Arsenal fan can take is the early return of Robin Van Persie. The ‘inferiority complex’ in Dutch football culture was further emphasised, as a side of great team spirit appeared to break down when their usual game could not be administered to the situation at hand. One would expect the Russians to give anyone a run for their money, but their aerial weakness could be exploited by the giant Luca Toni if the trend of Group Stage runners up proving victorious in the quarter finals, Spain could once more fall to the Azzurri as they have done for almost 100 years.

He has done it with South Korea, Austrailia and Holland. Now he has led Russia to the latter stages of a major international tournament. Whatever he has, it is frightening to think Chelsea could have signed him once upon a time.

Holland 1 – 3 Russia (a.e.t) FT

Euro 2008: Matchday Fourteen Round Up

2008-06-20T14:52:00.000-07:00

Croatia vs. Turkey

Turkey, a side who have only led for two minutes in the whole tournament, and won two matches came into the match with great confidence and a sense of belief that they could reach a first semi-final, a target Croatia were also looking at. Bilic was confident enough to name his side, unchanged from the one that overcame Germany, to the media the day before the match. Turkey can only play at a high tempo, while Croatia’s team suits matches against the bigger sides, where more space is available to attack. It seemed to make for an intriguing contest.

Arda Turan, who has a wonderful balance and dribbling ability, beat a number of men, when given the ball in the opening seconds but his final cross into the box was behind the intended target, giving an indication of a end to end game as Sabri played a poor pass out from the back, which Modric intercepted. The Tottenham schemer drove forward and his shot was blocked by his own man when the pass to the left flank was available. At the other end, Altintop, a creative playmaker, was finally given a midfield berth as he was laid off by Nihat, but the Bayern man shot wide of the mark. Sabri gave the ball away once more after Rustu, the veteran hesitated once more, and a last ditch block denied Srna in the six yard box as the ball was played back in.

At the other end Nihat won a fortunate free-kick after Croatia Captain Niko Kovac won the ball. Altintop drove the ball but Kovac blocked bravely as he led by example. Croatia had two brilliant chances as Modric skipped down the right channel and crossed perfectly for Olic, who fired his shot against the woodwork with the goal gaping. The ball fell quickly to Kranjcar but the Portsmouth attacker couldn’t react swiftly enough and headed over. Soon after Pranjic, arguably the full-back of the tournament together with Van Bronckhorst and Zhirkov, worked space deep in the Turkish half as Fatih Terrim’s right flank was continually exposed but his cross was cleared.

Rakitic, the Schalke player continued to disturb the Turkish right flank as his cross was punched away by Rustu as Olic waited to pounce and atone for his earlier miss. At the other end, Turan’s backheel played in Tuncay who didn’t have the strength to brush off his marker. One would think he’d try twice as hard having been booked causing him to miss a prospective semi-final. Soon after, Altintop burst past Kovac and was looking to play Nihat in for a one versus one situation, but he mis-kicked the ball at the critical moment. Turkey came back into the game as Topal shot from long-range, in a strike which had Pletikosa scrambling across goal.

Turkey added comedy to the game with horrible defending as Olic broke after a poor headed clearance. Rustu met him but his punch was weak. The defender Asik came over to cover but misjudeged the bounce allowing Olic to head towards the goal from the end-line but Balta was back to clear to Tuncay who ran it away from danger. Modric was becoming increasingly influential, with a smart turn and pass playing in Kranjcar, who managed to squeeze away a shot despite being closed down swiftly by Sabri and Asik. The former Zagreb man, started a counter-attack and found himself in possession on the left flank, turning his marker several times, he crossed for the off-side Olic, who controlled and finished but couldn’t control his run at all.

Pranjic passed inside to Rakitic, who played a one-two with Olic, to find himself only against Rustu, with pressure from the Turkey defenders running back but he blazed his shot over as Croatia looked to take the game by the scruff of the neck, while Turkey looked content to hold on and look for the odd counter-attack. Terrim then took a risk by bringing on Semih Senturk, a striker, for midfield workhorse Topal to partner Nihat, who had little service throughout. Petric, brought on for Kranjcar in an earlier substitution, went past a number of men to win a free-kick on the edge of the area. Srna had a curling effort but Rustu saved it acrobatically, while Petric headed wide soon after. Turkey entered the final minutes with a sense of destiny as Altintop’s thread pass reached its target but the cross was immediately blocked. The game became stretched as Croatia attacked, with Modric played in down the right flank by a clever back-heeled pass and his cross reached Olic, who, squeezed in a shot, albeit straight at Rustu. The keeper was forced to make a save from a 40 yard free-kick from Srna, which almost squeezed under him.

Olic has hit by Robert Kovac’s shot but he was quick to react and fired a volley over in the final action of the 90 minutes. Extra time beckoned. Tuncay burst past a number of blue shirts and tried to angle in a cross from the by-line but rather than find a red shirt, the attempt troubled Pletikosa at the near post, who punched it away for a corner. Klasnic (yes, he of the double kidney transplant) was brought on for Olic, who was wasteful in front of goal despite his endless running and energetic display. Semih Senturk blazed over after being playing in by Arda Turan from the right flank. Turkey continued a good spell of possession, as Tuncay fired in a shot from the edge of the area and it flashed wide as only 15 minutes remained.

Asik joined Tuncay and Turan in the book as he would be the third Turk to be suspended from any semi-final involvement, as Fatih Terrim’s side further weakened themselves. The exhausted players were surely roused to that extra yard of running or inspiration by the great atmosphere created, which was even more prominent in the final stages, with no-one wanting penalties. Croatia were the fitter and better rested side, with their first-choice side having not played since the second matchday of Group B. Turkey caused some panic in the Croatian box as the ball fell to Turan wide on the right, but his cross was blocked. At the other end Modric battled for the ball but Rustu gathered. Sabri was fouled on the right flank of the Croatian area, allowing Nihat to take the free-kick. He injured himself in taking the dead ball as it went out for a throw in. The captain and explosive Villarreal striker went off injured four minutes before penalties. Was it worth keeping him on?

But Croatia attacked in the dying seconds and the first cross was blocked and Modric gathered as Rustu ran out pointlessly, and the schemer of slight build crossed with the veteran in no position to save as Klasnic headed in. Was it won? Not with Turkey in the game. A long ball up from Rustu bounced and the substitute Semih, who scored against Switzerland, smacked it in with aid of a slight deflection. Bilic went from ecstasy to shock, complaining about the time keeping and the refusal by the referee for him to bring on Jerko Leko. He had to gather himself to lift his players for a penalty shoot-out.

Modric took the first spot-kick and the delay of getting the ball may have affected him as he shot wide to the left of Rustu, having scored against Austria inside 3 minutes in their opening game he missed here (0-0). Turan, the confident youngster hit it low and opted for power and it crept under Pletikosa (0-1). Srna sent Rustu the wrong way and slotted home (1-1). Semih took a powerfully struck penalty into the left corner (1-2). Rakitic, the 20 year old Schalke player, wilted under pressure in the Turkey end (1-2). Hamit Altintop slotted home to Pletikosa’s left, beating the keeper with ease (1-3). Petric shot to the left but Rustu guessed correctly and beat it away to turn from villain to hero (1-3).

The Turks prevailed in one of the most stunning finales to a game as the huge psychological blow of Semih’s goal gave the Turks the advantage. Terrim’s side reach the semi-finals as Bilic tried to lift his shattered players, with images of the inconsolable Srna evoking sympathy from the stunned fans. 66-1 at the start of the tournament, Turkey may struggle to reach the final, with key players suspended against Germany. But if we’ve learnt anything from this brilliant tournament, one of the best ever, never ever rule Turkey out. Having been out of games for its majority, they showed it takes a second to succeed. The last gasp goals are becoming a trademark. As one forum member claimed: Alex Ferguson said in one of his more lucid moments: "Bloody Hell. Football, eh?!" That phrase is no more fitting in any situation than this one.

The stunning end to a tense, cagey encounter will predictably allow the BBC to roll out the pun ‘Turkish Delight’. They along with several tabloids surely won’t be able to resist, will they?

Croatia 1- 1 Turkey FT (a.e.t) (Turkey won 3-1 on penalties)

Euro 2008: Matchday Thirteen Round Up

2008-06-19T13:50:00.000-07:00

Germany, a side shorn of Manager Joachim Low and midfield workhorse Torsten Frings out injured, brought in Rolfes, the Bayer Leverkusen midfielder, while Hitzelsperger also came in. Hans Flick, the assistant coach took charge of the technical area as Low watched from a box, apparently under watch from a UEFA official.

Ronaldo had an early run down the left and crossed but it was too close to Lehmann, who claimed that Arsenal have a formula for dealing with the winger, one dismissed by Clive Tyldesley, the ITV commentator. There must have been an element of truth with Gael Clichy, Bacary Sagna, and Emmanuel Eboue all dealing with the attacker with ease, with his dangerous moments coming in central areas in a roaming role. Portugal started confidently with decent possession bypassing strong pressure using the wingers to relieve any pressure, with Simao taking one raking ball confidently into his stride. He was played down the right channel but his shot at the near post was caught by Lehmann.

The first big chance fell to Moutinho, the Sporting Lisbon playmaker, after Boswinga’s burst of pace and swerving cross, but the young schemer was undesicive and lifted his knee to connect with it, only to see it blaze over. A diving header could have given the Portuguese the lead. They failed to take their chance as wonderful interplay between Podolski and Ballack found the former in space down the left flank and he outpaced one to score accurately for Schweinsteiger who slid in to round off a wonderful move

Then Bastian Schweinsteiger’s free-kick was floated in for Miroslav Klose to head in unmarked as the red shirts were static in their marking for the Bayern Munich striker to double their lead, with a second in four minutes. The Portuguese were stunned as the Germans used to counter-attack and their physical style to keep the ball well and attack in numbers. Clive Tyldesley called for the ‘real Ronaldo’, but obviously he was in Brazil recuperating from a serious injury. They used the running of Ronaldo, who was more involved in a central role, in behind more frequently to gain a foothold in the game. But it was a brilliant piece of possession play that cut open Germany, as Deco won the ball in his own half, and played in Simao, who spread the play to Ronaldo, who sprinted down the left channel to the box. His effort was blocked well by Lehmann who rushed out but the ball fell to a central area, where Nuno Gomes turned and fired in past the last-ditch attempt to block the shot from Metzelder, with Lehmann stranded.

ITV’s obsession and continuing hype of Ronaldo was tedious; the Real Madrid target was more prominent in the later minutes, but lost his marker for the second Germany goal and was well marshalled by the Germans. He did come close as the half drew to an end but his shot was wide as he burst into the box. Portugal were still in the ascendancy in the second half, as Ronaldo run forward past a few men, and was brought down by Friedrich, who then stepped on the winger as he returned to his position. He was booked only for the original foul, while the hilarious reaction from Ronaldo, who writhed around as if he had been shot, did not affect the referee, who might not have seen the incident.

Deco, revitalised after an apparent decline, was dominating the midfield, with mobility and incisive passing into space. The Barcelona midfielder, soon to on the move, flicked on a corner to Pepe, who headed over, with the ball coming quickly to him. Perhaps Lehmann’s outstretched form distracted the Real Madrid defender who headed over. The naturalised Portuguese defender then was booked for a shoulder charge on Klose. Schweinsteiger took the resulting free-kick and Ballack headed in past the flapping Ricardo to reinstate their two-goal lead. He was adjudged to push Ferreira away to connect with the ball.

Scholari brought on Nani for Gomes, who gave the armband to Ronaldo, whose first duty as captain was to further feed his ego and puff his chest before wasting a perfectly good free-kick opportunity by blazing the ball over instead of crossing. The younger United winger made one fine run as his side chased the game. The new Chelsea manager took the final throw of the dice by bringing on Helder Postiga, the £6m Tottenham flop, for Petit, the defensive midfielder, as four attackers were on, with their midfield light as Germany threatened to counter. Deco probed and lifted a pass to the Porto striker, who was challenged bravely by Jens Lehmann, who took a blow to the thigh. Nani troubled two defenders on the left flank, before shifting back away from goal before hitting an inswinging cross for Postiga to head home past Lehmann with little defensive pressure.

Germany were attacked with heavy pressure as Carvalho ran forward too but their pressure was stopped on two occasions by Postiga fouling the centre-back, while Nani wasted another opportunity by blazing high. Bosingwa provided width and endless energy down the right flank, but wasn’t given the pass to exploit the space in behind as crosses were frequently put in but headed away by Mertesacker and Metzelder. Germany had the final chance as Podolski broke down the left wing, cut inside his man, but his shot was easily caught by Ricardo. The Germans had prevailed once more as Ballack knocked out his new manager, as Metzelder knocked out his rival Pepe for the centre-back position at Real. A tense finish was epitomised by Jogi Low lighting up a cigarette. Apparently he doesn’t smoke.

Hopefully Jens Lehmann can round off a frustrating season with a triumph in the Euros. Tomorrow they will find out who their semi-final opponents will be. A rematch between Croatia and Germany looks enticing as another brilliant match appears to be in the prospect.

Portugal 2 – 3 Germany FT

Euro 2008: Matchday Twelve Round Up

2008-06-18T14:09:00.000-07:00

With their place secured in the quarter finals, Aragones decided to rest the first choice players and give a run-out to the fringe players as he tested his squad out, like Marco Van Basten and Slaven Bilic in the past few days, with Pepe Reina, Fabregas and 27 goal Mallorca striker Dani Guiza all starting. Reported Arsenal targets Raul Albiol and Ruben de La Red also started. Many of those playing were all supported by the Spanish media and fans to start in the first choice side with a fine performance likely to be used as a justification for why they should start more frequently. Greece were only fighting for pride having been eliminated without much of a fight. Surely they must leave having at least scored a goal?

Fabregas broke down the right hand side and crossed for Ruben De la Red, but the ball was taken away from his path after Sergio Garcia, also running into the box took a touch. The incisive Spanish passing appeared to trouble Greece early on. Fabregas was playing early balls to Guiza to exploit his height, in a faster pace in comparison to perhaps Xavi and David Silva. Xabi Alonso attempted to lob Nikopolidis from his own half, with the veteran having no idea of his angles as he back peddled into the post as the Juventus target’s shot was just wide. The Liverpool man was then played in by Fabregas but his low shot lacked the required bend to creep in.

The two Premiership stars combined once more as Fabregas laid off a free-kick to his compatriot, whose side-footed strike from distance whizzed past the post as Nikopolidis left the ball. After Iniesta’s penalty appeal was rejected, Greece won a free-kick at the other end. Karagounis whipped a ball in and Charisteas was afforded a free-header which he bulleted into the net as Greece finally got their goal, with their first decent chance. It appeared that the Greece of old had returned with the main change the placement of Karagounis in a central role allowing Rehhagel’s team to lead despite having little possession.

Alonso then hit the post with a rasping drive that deserved to be an equaliser, as Spain used further chances up but failed to register a goal for all their possession. The Greeks seemed to be troubling Spain even more so but a moment of brilliance allowed the Spanish to equalize. A fine floated ball from Fabregas reached Guiza, who headed back to De la Red, whose rocket of a shot slammed into the net, despite the firm hand of Nikopolidis, who was taken aback by the speed of the shot. In Spain’s possession play, De la Red was over shadowed by his fellow midfielders, such as Iniesta on the wing, but his graft went unnoticed until this fine goal.

Soon after Fabregas’ ball reached the head of Juanito, who headed wide. Guiza was played in down the channel and steadied himself before shooting across goal, as the ball edged past the post. Soon after Sergio Garcia lifted the ball over Nikopolidis from an acute angle as the Greek captain committed himself by rushing out but the effort trickled wide. The Zaragoza man, looking for a move this summer after his side was relegated, might have put off a few, by ghosting in from the right to hit a shot that was rising at a great angle, an effort fitting for rugby rather than football. But the wideman showed his better side, with a curling ball towards Dani Guiza, who obliged at the opportunity to score his first international goal with a simple header and to win the game for Spain.

Spain enter the quarter finals with a perfect record as once more rotation pays off in Euro 2008 after a long club season, freshness and fatigue are key factors. Some brilliant footballing nations will meet in a mouth-watering round starting with Germany and Portugal tomorrow.

Greece 1 – 2 Spain FT

In the more important game of the night, Russia played Sweden, with the winner of the two qualifying naturally, but Sweden can qualify with a draw due to a better goal difference. A simple target, with none of the complicated permutations from yesterday made this game more accessible. Arshavin, a brilliant playmaker of Zenit St. Petersburg returned in place of Torbinsky as Russia were given a boost. Shame his club team-mate Pavel Pogrebnyak, a clinical striker was ruled out of the tournament altogether with injury. On the opposing side, Ibrahimovic, who finally came into scoring form for his national side in the last two games, was deemed fit enough to play, after his dominating 45 minute appearance against Spain threatened to cause an upset.

Arshavin showed his vision by picking out Pavlyuchenko’s run on the left flank with a raking long-range pass. Soon after the mobile dibbler headed wide and failed to fully connect to a cross from the right. The Russians were dominant in their ball manipulation, creating fine angles to work the pass as they stretched Sweden. Arshavin’s misjudged cross troubled Isaksson, who was forced to tip over for a corner. A clever ball past the crowd of players waiting to head it reached Zhirkov, a brilliant full-back whose volley edged past the post and almost swerved back in threatening to ripple the net thus Isaksson was scrambling across the goal.

The Russian dominance paid off as Sweden’s defence was in disarray, with Anyukov crossing for Pavlyuchenko to sweep home as Hiddink’s influence once more appeared to give success in a wonderful footballing display. Their possession was assured and confident but Henrik Larsson gave a reminder with a flicked header to the far post that hit the upright. Soon after order was restored and the lead nearly doubled as Pavlyuchenko hit the bar after another sweeping move while Zyryanov’s follow up was patted away for a corner by Isaksson.

Akinfeev added to the Russian collective performance with two important saves, one from Ljungberg as the Swedes stepped up their efforts, while the second was at the feet of Ibrahimovic, with both running out for corners. They were not utilised by the Swedes as the half ended with an Arshavin-inspired Russia in front. The brilliant attacker slotted home after a deadly counter-attack on 50 minutes, once more involving the rampaging Zhirkov. Sweden were more prominent in their attacks, using crosses more frequently realising the tendency of Akinfeev to punch rather than catch the ball caused concerns in the Russian defence.

Ibrahimovic headed downwards at the far post after a cross from the left flank, but the bounce caused the power of his effort to be lost as it fell into Akinfeev’s hands. Another Russian attack saw Zyryanov’s shot deflect onto the post as they chased a third. The Russians attempted to keep the move alive as a cross was chipped up for Ivan Saenko, who, with the goal gaping, headed across goal. Then Pavlyuchenko headed into Isaksson’s arms. Another chance passed by as Saenko crossed for Pavlyuchenko but the cut-back was behind the striker who couldn’t connect well enough, despite the fact that he had time to control and shoot after the Saenko had drawn two defenders to him.

Hiddink and his group of technical footballers reached the quarter final for the first time since the Soviet Union disbanded and meet Holland in a tie where the sides with a brilliant brand of counter-attacking football meet. Holland, being the bigger side will be obliged to take the game to Russia, who’ll thrive in their usual set-up. It appears to be a wonderful game in the making as Hiddink plays his homeland.

Russia 2 – 0 Sweden FT

Below is the full quarter-final draw with a kick-offs at 7.45pm.

Thursday - Germany v Portugal (ITV)
Friday - Croatia v Turkey (BBC)
Saturday - Netherlands v Russia (ITV)
Sunday - Spain v Italy (BBC)

One would see a Portugal – Netherlands final as likely but with so many results in this tournament against the trend, we should not be surprised to see a dark horse triumphing in Vienna on June 29th.

Euro 2008: Matchday Eleven Round Up

2008-06-18T11:11:00.002-07:00

Raymond Domenech was under intense pressure, having played tactics and personnel that have made his side take only a point in their opening two games. The Frenchman, prone to astrological factors in his decision-making, a point highlighted by the media only recently whereas as we Arsenal fans, realised his flaws when Robert Pires was dropped after Euro 2004. A changed side was put out, with Thuram, apparently not playing due a poor mental state to play, with Abidal playing in central defence with Gallas. Clerc and Evra were the full-backs as Sagnol made a similar claim. Donadoni, under the threat of being sacked if he doesn’t reach at least the semi-finals due to a clause in his new contract, brought in the wonderfully talented but hugely temperamental Cassano, now of Sampdoria.

The two World Cup finalists of two years previous now met in a match with their fates in the hands of Romania, who played a Dutch side making nine changes. When the replacements include Robben, Van Persie and Huntelaar and Afellay, who Arsenal reportedly had a bid of £10 million rejected, they could hardly be accused of playing a weakened team. In Zurich, Abidal, a questionable choice at centre-back, let in Toni, who broke free but appeared to shoot early when time was on his side, as the ball was fired past Coupet’s right hand post. Franck Ribery appeared to injury himself in the aftermath of a collision with Zambrotta, and the Bayern’s wing wizard was in considerable pain as he was taken off the pitch on a stretcher. Arsenal target Samir Nasri replaced his former Marseille teammate.

Pirlo’s corner was headed goalwards by Panucci, whose effort was blocked by a combination of Coupet and Makelele on the post as Italy pressed sensing an advantage with Ribery’s injury affecting the French, while the weakness in their defence also aided Italy. Evra was booked for a poor challenge, while Toni had another effort from the resulting free-kick taken by Pirlo. At the other end Govou broke with space on the right flank, but ignored the supporting run from Clerc and dragged his shot well wide. Pirlo played a one-two with Toni and chipped in a wonderful pass to Perrotta, who failed to control as he was through on goal.

Toni controlled a long ball beautifully with an outstretched leg, but the bumbling Abidal denied him a clear goal scoring opportunity, with referee Michel did not hesitate to send off the Barcelona full-back, as France’s night went from bad to worse. Pirlo fired home the spot-kick into the top corner to send the Italians into the lead. Nasri was taken off after only 16 minutes to allow Boumsong replace Abidal in the defence. One would question Domenech’s faith in Boumsong, as he preferred to start a full-back in his place. The former Newcastle man is famous for his participation on Newcastle’s comedy defence, with English fans assuming that the result for Italy was looking more likely. Arsenal fans must have been disappointed by the French coach’s decision to take off Nasri, who rarely had the ball, with only one run lacking penetration made, with two fouls made to break up Italian dominance.

De Rossi fired over as the Italians used patient build-up play to move the French players around and tire them as quickly as possible. Then a back-heeled flick from Toni went agonizingly past the post after a deep cross from the right flank. This was one of five chances the 38 goal Bayern man had in a few minutes. Henry was then played in by Toulalan’s finely weighted ball but he fired wide in a great chance to level.

In Berne, Mutu teased his man and crossed from the left flank for Niculae to control and volley wide. Arsenal’s Van Persie headed high and wide from an Englelaar ball, which he struggled to direct. Soon after a throw-in reached Mutu and turned his marker to create half a yard of space to cross but it narrowly evaded his target. Soon after, Van Persie ran to the left to meet another Engelar ball but couldn’t direct his header back at goal as it once more went wide. Huntelaar headed over, while Robben was played in soon after by Huntelaar’s deft touch but touched it wide when one on one with Lobont as the Dutch threatened to take the lead. But Romania, having heard of Italy’s goal, were forced to take the initiative as Mutu hit a rising shot from the edge of the area but it whirred wide. Then Rat bombed down the right flank and pulled back for Codrea but he blazes over in a fine chance.

Benzema hit a free kick against the wall, while his second attempt was volleyed over.
De Rossi fine run forward and turned Toulalan brilliantly but was fouled on the edge of the box. Grosso, who scored the winner against Germany in the 2006 semi-final hit the base of the post with a bending effort with a touch from Coupet preventing the Italians doubling their lead. The second half began with the Italians playing deep and on the counter-attack in a typical defensive manner as they looked to hold their lead. Henry had two efforts on goal which Buffon grabbed with ease. Toulalan, dubbed the ‘white Makelele’ in some quarters, was dictating the French play impressively as both sides were given fresh incentive with news filtering through into the stadium that Huntlelaar had scored in Berne from an Afellay cross stepped over by Engelaar, who deceived two Romanian defenders with his decoy run. Previous to this Van Persie latched onto a long ball, turned and shot, but Lobont was equal to it, with a fine reaction save.

Coupet rushed out to deny Toni but the Italians doubled their lead after Cassano was fouled. De Rossi took the free-kick and the net rippled following a wicked deflection of the outstretched leg of Thierry Henry, which fooled Coupet who had already dived to his right. The goal was marked down as an own goal for the Barcelona striker with De Rossi’s original effort looking to end up closer to the corner flag than the net. With the game practically won, the Italians resorted to delaying the game with a small foul on Cassano causing the former Bari man to collapse dramatically and needing treatment on the pitch as the French players waited to try an unlikely fight back. Buffon made a wonderful save from a curling effort by Benzema. Arsenal captain William Gallas appeared to hurt his back after a collision, but the tough defender dared not go off and reduce his side to nine men as Anelka came on as a third and final substitute.

It seemed the end of an era for France after a particularly cruel end, with Vieira, outstanding in the closing stages of Inter’s third Scudetto triumph, despite what Mark Lawrensen may think was a huge loss, while the mental state of Thuram and Sagnol the age of the defence and injury to Ribery, poor tactics all contributed to the fall of this onc great side. But the future is bright, with youngsters such as Benzema (who made a fine run in the last action of the game), Nasri and Ben Arfa, who failed to make the final cut, all three won a U17 youth tournament together for France. 2010 is the objective for France, with or without Domenech, probably and hopefully without. Deschamps may be the man to take the Blues forward in a qualification group containing Romania.

Arsenal’s Robin Van Persie scored in clinical fashion and reminded fans of his vast potential when match-fit after he collected a pass from the right and lashing into the net at the near post with a bullet of a shot. Like Croatia, Van Basten’s side showed a winning pattern despite wholesale changes in personnel, and face one of Sweden or Russia on Sunday. Romania, despite a spirited effort in drawing with France and Italy will no doubt look towards Mutu’s missed penalty as the predominant factor concerning their elimination. The playmaker was no doubt their best player but it was his action that made the difference for the worse unfortunately for the Fiorentina man.

A mouth-watering match ha now been set up between Spain and Italy in the pick of the round. A wonderful tournament with such entertainment continues with pure footballing sides all progressing so far as it threatens to surpass Euro 2000, the last great tournament of recent times.

France 0 – 2 Italy FT
Holland 2 – 0 Romania FT

Euro 2008: Matchday Ten Round Up

2008-06-18T11:11:00.001-07:00

Germany and Austria is a match with huge history, with politics, and being geographical neighbours creating an intense rivalry and a stunning atmosphere in the Ernst Happel Stadium. Austria defeated the ‘enemy’ in 1978 in a 3-2 thriller dubbed the ‘Miracle of Cordoba’, the 1982 game was controversial with the sides accused in some quarters of not ‘competing’ and keeping the score favourable for both sides as the game ended 0-0. That apparently is the reason why the final group game is always played at the same time to avoid future accusations, at least according to the BBC.

Jansen was dropped after his poor defensive performances at left back. Friedrich was reinstated to the starting eleven as Low returned to the World Cup 2006 defence. Klose ran down the right flank and checked his run to beat his marker. Then the Bayern Munich man shifted a yard to create space to roll the ball to Gomez, who had the simple job of tapping in from a yard. But the highly rated striker continued a disappointing tournament as he mishit the ball and it looped up high into the air and the Austrian defence managed clear. The German pressure continued as Podolski, who must be wondering why he cannot seem to start up front ahead of the luckless Gomez, had his shot blocked. Soon after Austria were denied a penalty kick as Metzelder grappled with his striker and brought him down.

The static German defence struggled as Hopper failed to control the cross from the right as the ball rolled through to Lehmann, who clutched it gratefully. Aufhauser then shot from long range as Lehmann had to parry to his left with a diving save. The Germans then took their turn to attack as Podolski, who looked to add to his 3 goals, shot from outside of the box but Macho saved. The tensions were high as Aufhauser appeared to raise his hand to Podolski in an off-the-ball incident. Soon after both Hickersberger and Low were sent to the stands as the referee Manuel Gonzalez lost patience with their protests against the 4th Official.

Germany began the second half with renewed vigour, as they played with a higher tempo and more urgency with Lahm frequently bursting forward from left-back aiding the attack. The greater attacking pressure from Lahm resulted in a free-kick as he was brought down by Ivanschitz. Michael Ballack obliged to fire into the top right-hand corner past the dive of Macho, from the dead ball as he ended a run of poor, direct set-piece taking in the tournament.

Bayern Munich’s Lahm continued his influential second half display with a driving run past several Austrian players but he lacked end product as his shot was dragged wide. Some decent interplay down the left flank between Ballack and Podolski allowed the latter to shoot, but his shot whirred just wide of the right hand post. Austria fought back as Ivanschitz hit a tame shot, which rolled to Lehmann. The substitute Kienast almost levelled but his effort was blocked, while a few seconds later, the same striker’s header went wide.

The Germans tried to extend their lead, by substituting the ineffective Mario Gomez for Hitzelsperger, famous for his long range shots and their power. He played in Klose, who was challenged by Macho, who bravely dived it his feet and won the ball but was injured in the process. Ivanschitz had a lucky break as the ball fell in his direction after a block on his original run by Metzelder and he closed down on goal but was denied the opportunity to shoot as Lahm cleared over his own bar with a sliding clearance. Hoffer then had the chance to turn and shoot but sliced his hit wide as the co-hosts pressed for an equaliser. Germany tried to break as Klose was played in but his shot was too close to Macho who batted it away. Soon after Torsten Frings drove forward and shot low, inches wide.

In the final seconds of stoppage time Kormaz’s cross was headed away by Metzelder, who was brilliantly positioned as two strikers waited in behind in what was Austria’s final opportunity to equalize. They managed to work the ball to the wide areas on several occasions but the quality of the final ball was always poor. Oliver Neuville broke forward as Germany had a chance to kill the game off shot wide, despite having many options on either side of him.

Low’s side set up a mouth-watering quarter final with fellow favourites Portugal, as the hosts went out in respectable fashion, and not the humiliating manner, which many of their fans dreaded.

Austria 0 – 1 Germany FT

Bilic started with essentially a second choice side with a few regulars as Modric was rested in a game which Poland had to emerge victorious to stand any chance of progressing to the next stage. Beenhakker moved Dudka into defence

Poland almost took the lead as Lobodzinski crossed but Runje punched the ball away, while the returning ball into the box from the left was cleared for a corner. Rakitic whipped in a dangerous free-kick from the right flank, which Werder’s Klasnic, the first kidney transplant patient to play football almost stole in, after Vejic headed agonizingly wide. Schalke 04’s Rakitic showed his importance in the side by taking set-pieces and dictating their play. Lewandowski then fired a shot high and wide as Poland looked to seize the initiative. The fine left footed Pranjic of Heerenveen continued to bomb down the left and crossed for Petric, who failed to connect but was flagged offside anyway. Previously he tried a chip to the far post, but the left footed strike meant it curved away from the post in another chance.

Ivan Klasnic ran clear of the Poland defence and looked primed to break the deadlock, but Poland keeper Artur Boruc raced off his line and did brilliantly to smother the Croat's strike. Minutes later the Celtic stopper repeated the feat against Ivan Rakitic's effort from the left-hand side of the box. Krzynowek hits a free kick into the wall and the same man had a volley blocked as the ball set up nicely. Jerko Leko then shot wide as Croatia dominated. Klasnic was played in after a simple flick beat the Polish defence but his shot was blocked by Arthur Boruc, who rushed out expertly, as Rakitic’s follow up was hit well wide of the goal.

Boruc was finally beaten as Pranjic cut back for Klasnic, who shot into the far corner to send the Croats into the lead and driving seat for the top spot in Group A. Pranjic continued to bomb forward and hit the bar after getting his angles wrong. Roger Guerreiro, the naturalised Pole, received a simple pass when in space, which he used to turn and shoot to the far post, and it trickled despairingly wide as he held his head in his hands. Saganowski headed at the far post, which was caught by Runje after a floated cross from the left flank. His replacement Zahorski was then denied by Croatia reserve Runje as Poland desperately went for an equalizer but it was in vain.

Ivan Klasnic’s brilliant recovery from a kidney disorder to score the winner and set up a quarter final with Turkey, was fitting of a player who worked incredibly hard to bring back his career from the dead. His goal brought an easier route to the Semi-final with two colourful managers meeting in Slaven Bilic and Fatih Terrim in what should be an entertaining contest.

Poland 0 – 1 Croatia FT

Euro 2008: Matchday Nine Round Up

2008-06-18T11:10:00.000-07:00

The stage was set for a great game as the Czech Republic and Turkey with the two sides level on points and sharing defeats to Portugal and victories against co-hosts Switzerland, the match had to be won by one side or penalties after 90 minutes was a very real possibility. The main change was bringing in Koller for Baros, whose mobility and smart movement gave Bruckner’s side a strong focal point in comparison to the slow, static beanpole striker. But his stature was the main reason for his selection as he competed with Cetin physically.

Libor Sionko then returned the ball into the box from the right after great work down the left from the brilliant Marek Jankulovski and with Jan Koller set to pounce, Servet Cetin made a fine interception, showing he can match Koller on the ground, despite struggling aerially. Grygera then stormed down the right flank and crossed for Koller, who accepted the invitation to finish and guided the ball into the net off the underside of the bar via the hand of Volkan. Koller, who looked very unfit in the opening game, was totally dominant in this decider heading another ball over and volleying high and wide as the Czechs had the larger influence on the game.

Nihat tried an acrobatic scissor kick as the ball looped up into the air from a poor Jankulovski clearance but it was overhit. The Turks came back into the game as Tuncay Sanli headed goalwards but Cech was equal to it. Sabri, worked hard on the right flank and tricked his marker to allow him to advance to the box but his cut-back was blocked. Soon after the lively Libor Sionko swung in a deep cross from the right and Jaroslav Plasil met it at the far post to double the Czechs advantage, with the pace of the ball beating Volkan, who got a touch onto the ball in vain.

Jan Koller ran through, despite being marginally offside, only to shoot tamely wide from 10 yards, in an awkward fashion with mobility never being his strong point Fortunately for the Czechs, it wasn't too costly. Fatih Terrim was furious as Turkey were down to ten men, looking to bring a substitute on in the build up due to injury. Polak then hit the post after a fine cut-back and tried to head in the rebound with Emre Asik almost catching him fully on the head as they competed for the same ball. The Turkish defender then was booked for hauling down David Rozenhal, who was at the time strangely the furthest man up-field for the Czechs.

At the other end, a dangerous cut-back from Altintop, the right-back, normally an attacking midfielder for Bayern and it passed a crowd of players at the near post and ran to Arda Turan, who arrowed his shot in at the far post. Cech got a hand but it wasn’t enough. Kazim Kazim found himself in space but couldn’t control and eventually got into a tangle with his own team mate, resulting in the Czechs regaining the ball. Petr Cech continued a season of apparently uncharacteristic errors as he failed to catch a seemingly harmless cross and the untiring Nihat took advantage and tapped in to level the scores very late.

Nihat hit a wonderful curling shot in off the underside past Cech after being played in by a simple ball from Altintop through the Czech defence as the pint-sized Villarreal striker made it two in two minute to destroy Czech hopes and cement this night as one of the worst in Petr Cech’s career. There was still enough time for more controversy the Czechs almost equalized as Volkan shoved Jan Koller to the ground after the ball ran out for a goal kick, with referee Frojdfeldt not hesitating to send off the Turk, who should be the proud in the sense that he is capable of flooring the 6ft 7inch giant. But he will now miss the quarter final with Slaven Bilic’s Croatia. Tuncay went into goal for the remainder of injury time.

A most exhilarating denouement to this group stage match in this wonderful tournament showed the enigmatic nature of the Turks, who will make one half of an intriguing quarter final.

Turkey 3 – 2 Czech Republic FT

Portugal fielded essentially a reserve side as Fernando Meira, predominantly a centre-back for Stuttgart, came into midfield. The highly rated Miguel Veloso, a defensive midfielder started too in place of his Sporting Lisbon team-mate Joao Moutinho. To The Swiss had nothing to play for apart from pride and to give veteran coach Kobi Kuhn a fine send off as he went into retirement after their final group stage match.

The Portuguese started confidently, epitomised by an eye-catching cross from the exuberant Ricardo Quaresma, who executed a Rabona to float a fine cross that Helder Postiga, once of Tottenham headed over. Portugal's Nani fired in a low free-kick and Pepe deflects it on to the crossbar, via a brilliant reaction save from Pascal Zuberbuehler. The Manchester United youngster took on the role of his team-mate Ronaldo in influencing the proceedings from the wing. Yet as Portugal seemed to dominate possession, Inler reminded the audience of his ability with a long range shot that Ricardo had to tip over. Nani then broke into the area and passed sideways to Postiga, whose goal-bound shot was brilliantly blocked by Senderos.

Nani’s free kick was then punched away by Zuberbuehler as Portugal continued to search for the opener. Behrami of Lazio was caught by Paulo Ferreira, after the winger beat him for pace, and the Swiss man was caught on his ankle and was carried off by stretcher but fortunately came back on. Hakan Yakin then headed at goal from an Inler free-kick but was denied by Ricardo as the Swiss almost stole into the lead, after Scolari typically kept three men up-field for a chance to counter as set pieces continued to show themselves as a weakness in Portugal’s impressive arsenal of talents. Meira fed Postiga, with a slide-rule pass, and he slotted home but was incorrectly flagged offside (Lichtsteiner played him on) as Portugal continued to dominate.

Nani then hit the outside of the post having been found by a fine pass from Veloso. Ricardo Quaresma, who once more seemed to be playing second fiddle in this Portugual side, this time to Nani, drilled in a shot from 20 yards that Pascal Zuberbuehler punched the ball away, unable to gather. Gokhan Inler, who has attracted many suitors through his commanding displays in centre midfield, hit a sensational right-foot shot from 30 yards that clipped the outside of the post, as the Swiss began to take the game to Portugal. Their pressure was rewarded when Hakan Yakin latched onto a great clipped pass from Eren Derdiyok and kept his composure and smashed his shot between the legs of Ricardo. Hakan Yakin hammered a left-foot shot into the top corner from the penalty spot as Basel went mad as they went closer to what would be their first win at a European Championship finals as Tranquilo Barnetta was fouled through a challenge from Fernando Meira, who was already booked for dissent but escaped a second yellow.

The game ended, overshadowed by events in Geneva, but the scenes were as jubilant as those from the Turkish team and fans as the co-hosts bowed out with their pride in tact, and Kobi Kuhn could retire on a climax defeating one of the favourites, albeit a weakened Portugal side.

Switzerland 2 – 0 Portugal FT

Euro 2008: Matchday Eight Round Up

2008-06-18T11:09:00.002-07:00

While the whole of Europe spoke of the Brilliant ‘Oranje’, the other outstanding performer of Euro 2008, Spain were preparing for a game to settle the winners of Group D. Unchanged from the 4-1 destruction of Russia, Spain were not overconfident, knowing that a bright start doesn’t necessarily mean a bright finish, as their 4-0 opening win against Ukraine in Germany 2006, a tournament that ended early, as seems to be the norm with ‘La Furia Roja’, with a defeat to France. Sweden, on the other hand, rarely have sides of outstanding individual talent, but a team of grafters, who always seem to reach the big stage. This time, however, they have the temperamental Zlatan Ibrahimovic leading the line alongside with veteran Henrik Larsson, who always seemingly accepts his call for his country after the tedious process of qualifying, to play on the big stage.

An early conceded free-kick by Spain, saw Ibrahimovic receive the ball, but he failed to control and shoot. Torres raised a similar warning as he dribbled down the right side of the box and cut back, but it was blocked. Sweden countered, as one would expect them to, when facing the patient possession football of Spain, as Larsson set Ljungberg free down the left flank, but his shot was weak as it rolled into the arms of Casillas. A finely worked corner, as the ball was played short and cut back to David Silva, who chipped a delicate pass into the run of Torres, who touched the ball in while stretching to take the lead for Spain. The celebration however, left great room for improvement. Elmander could have helped restore the lead but lacked the composure to find Ljungberg at the far post and instead shot into the side netting as he raced into the box.

Larsson made a cleverly timed run from Ibrahimovic’s floated pass but could only direct his shot high over the bar. Yet for all of Spain’s dominance, Sweden hit back as a simple move beat Spain with a cross-field pass to Stoor, who crossed from deep to Ibrahimovic, who controlled well, turned Sergio Ramos with ease and slotted home past the despairing hand of Casillas, who got a touch, which fortunately for Sweden was not enough to deny them a goal, as the ball trickled over the line. Ibrahimovic was controlling the tempo of the attack and dropped deep to play in midfield runners in a typical playmaker role as Spain were rattled. Aragones’ side had more to complain about as Pieter Vink denied them a penalty with Elmander clearly barging David Silva in the penalty area. Furthermore, he blew for half time when Silva had a chance to cross into the box, denying them an advantage.

Swedish hopes took a blow as Markus Rosenberg came on for Ibrahimovic at half time, after the Inter talisman was hampered by a knee injury. The Spanish had Silva through on goal but he elected to pass, as did Villa, with their side reminiscent of Arsenal in the 06/07 season, wasting a great chance to retake the lead. Aragones decided to bring off Barcelona duo Iniesta and Xavi for Arsenal’s Fabregas and Santi Cazorla of Villarreal to bring different ideas to refocus the Spanish attack, with urgency and a higher tempo needed. Villa cut in from the left and fed Silva, who checked back and shot and Isaksson saved but could not gather as Villa won the ball back and cut back for Torres, whose shot was blocked off the line by Daniel Andersson as Spain pressed for another goal.

Senna, then drove forward and forced Isaksson to parry his long range shot as Spain struggled to open up the hard working Swedes. The defender Hansson hit a free-kick from deep back across goal as Larsson agonizingly stretched to make the goal-bound touch in vain. Yet the substitution of Ibrahimovic had hampered Sweden who sat back behind the ball to prevent Spain from playing their way through to goal. Werder Bremen’s Rosenberg was not as effective in holding up the ball or influencing the play. And it was not possession football that shocked Sweden in stoppage time but route one as a hopeful long ball from Capdevila evaded the leap of Torres, but found its way into the path of David Villa, who turned from the defender and fired low in the far corner to practically confirm Spain a place in the quarter finals and make himself the leading scorer (with 4 goals) once more.

The Valencia striker added more pounds onto his already vast transfer value with this goal and showed why he is regarded as a better finisher than compatriot Torres. Despite not really deserving this victory in terms of their performance, a clinical finisher at their disposal could take Spain far in this competition. Ramos, so highly rated in European football after a wonderful season with Real Madrid had a poor game in an attacking and defensive sense. This gritty side might just be what the Spanish need to finally add to their 1964 success in the same competition. What Luis Suarez inspired then, David Villa could do now.

Sweden 1 – 1 Spain FT

Russia were destroyed in their opening game by attempting to play football against the Spanish, but their possession football may prove more successful against the defensive Greeks. Still deprived of their star attacker Andrei Arshavin, they’ll need to use the majority of the possession to open up Otto Rehhagel’s side instead of the counter-attacking style which Zenit St. Petersburg held in such good stead in their UEFA Cup success. Their poor defensive performance has to be improved upon with more pressure needed high up the pitch.

On the other hand the defending champions have to prove they are worthy of the title which they won with organisation and steel in Lisbon four years ago. After a performance with almost no adventure a few days ago, they switched to a 4-3-3, with Ansas, the third centre-back against Sweden being dropped. And Amanatidis almost stole in after Kolodin slipped by the highly rated, 22 year old Igor Akinfeev rushed out to deny him by clearing quickly. Bilyaletdinov countered for the Russians in what what shaping out to be a scrappy match but his shot was high and wide. Greece managed to show some invention as a fine reverse pass released full-back Seitaridis, whose cross was too near to Akinfeev. At the other end Pavyluchenko, cut in and shot but his bending effort was tipped over by veteran Nikopolidis. The same man whose brace dampened English hopes in Russia, appealed for a penalty for handball of Dellas but his claims by countered through his original offside position as the cross came in from the right.

The Russians were looking more threatening but the direct Greece, won a free kick, in which Angelo Charisteas missed the ball completely as a free heading opportunity came his way. The ball hit Semshov on the line and he awkwardly cleared it for a corner. The Greece striker was guilty for wasting another opening as Patsatzoglou. Zhrikov had been instrumental in the majority of Russian moves as he bombed down the left flank continuously and tormented his marker. This was evident as he passed to Torbinsky, who crossed to the back post drawing out Nikopolidis, who was taken out of play by a wonderful flick by Russia captain Semak, for Zyryanov to tap into an empty net. The Champions were on the brink of elimination. Greece were able to reshuffle after the injury of Seitaridis, as playmaker Karagounis was brought on. His first action was to a hit a poor free-kick and then to take a booking to stop Russia countering his original error.

Angelo Charisteas continued his poor finishing by showing a complete lack of composure when one versus one against Akinfeev, he lamely lifts his shot into the air so that the CSKA, one time arsenal target could simply catch it. Where was the power in that shot? Pavlyuchenko then shot hard at the near post to remind the viewer how to hit a ball when required. The same man then was found ploughing a lone furrow down the left flank and cut inside with a brilliant turn of pace past Kyrgiakos but he dragged his shot wide at the near post when a curling effort around Nikopolidis would have fared him better. Zhrikov then crossed to Pavlyuchenko, who backheeled it into the path of Bilyaletdinov, who lashed it wide, as Russia wasted another chance to extend their lead.

Bilyaletdinov had another chance after Nikopolidis’ outstretched hand patted away a dangerous cross but the danger was imminent as the Russian stole the ball and his goal-bound shot was blocked by Dellas’s brilliant block to add some gloss to further shambolic defending. Four years ago, they were the epitome of defensive solidity, now, ages has weakened them significantly, as it as many defences in Austria and Switzerland, the French a clear example. The substitute Saenko made a fine dribble beating two players as he carried the ball out of defence and played a wonderfully weighted through ball to Pavlyuchenko, who shot high and wide, once more lacking composure.

The lively Karagounis, who was willing to shoot as shown earlier in the match, turned away from two players before being chopped down to win a free-kick. Charisteas had the ball in the net but the Greeks were contentiously flagged offside as Russia continued to dominate the closing stages. Fine counter-attacking, and aesthetically brilliant passing patterns were insignificant with a lack of composure in the final third, be it the assisting pass or the shot on goal. Semak broke after Greece threw a number of players up the pitch and fed Pavlyuchenko, who fired over the bar as Russia’s lack of attacking end product was evident once more. Roberto Rosetti blew his whistle and Greece were no more.

A shadow of the victors that shocked the whole of Europe, they went out without having scored a goal. This Russian win means that Spain will go through, while all depends on the final matchday encounter between Sweden and Russia. While the entertainment wasn’t as compelling as yesterday, it was still of a high level but ITV’s coverage was very disappointing. The constant repetition of Sweden-Spain highlights, Andy Townsend’s constant stream of clichés when analysing the match and appointing Sam Allyardyce as a pundit (who by the way looked like a tacky, low level mob boss) further emphasised BBC’s superiority in every department of football coverage on free-to-air television. Oh, and I forgot the adverts every other minute. Things will be low in the autumn when Internationals and the FA Cup arrive on the channel.
Greece 0 – 1 Russia FT

Euro 2008: Matchday Seven Round Up

2008-06-18T11:09:00.001-07:00

After a heavy, unexpected defeat to the Dutch, the World Champions Italy reinstated veteran attacker Del Piero and broke up the Milan midfield trio torn apart in the first leg by swapping Gattuso with De Rossi and also removing Ambrosini. The five changes expected to exploit Toni’s strength and aerial ability, by using the width and running brought by left back Fabio Grosso and Simone Perrotta of Roma. Romania kept the same formation which brought them a draw against France, once more looking to counter attack with the Italians likely to be presented the majority of possession just like France.

Romania’s biggest threat in Adrian Mutu made an early impression as he challenged for a cross in the opening stages but headed over. Later the Fiorentina man was found to be offside as the Romanians broke again. Yet Italy tried to take an early advantage as Toni played in Del Piero, top scorer in Serie A this past season, whose shot was deflected for a corner. Camoranesi chipped in a weighted pass in the path of the Juventus trequartista but the ball was taken away from him. Yet Perrotta, as every commentator will mention him being born in Aston-under –Lyne, the birth place of Geoff Hurst, crossed the ball back across goal but Del Piero headed wide at the near post. The same man played a delicate back-heel into the direction of Perrotta but the pass was intercepted. While Del Piero was involved in most of the early Italian attacks, Mutu broke and shot towards the far post but Buffon rushed out swiftly and denied him well.

Defender Gabriel Tamas hit a rasping long range drive, which he did well to keep low as Buffon pushed it away from his left. Soon after Chivu whipped in a dangerous free-kick, with which Niculae connected well and it hit the base of the post with aid of a deflection of an Italian defender. Zambrotta cleared and two Romanian players collided head on in a bid to knock the ball back into the box. Radoi was worse off and was taken off by a stretcher cart with Dica replacing him. Yet the Italians hit back as Grosso curled a dangerous ball into the six-yard box, with which Del Piero almost connected in what would have been a sure goal. Later Toni headed wide as Italian pressure continued.

Yet the Romanians reminded the fans of their threat as Razvan Rat hit from long range after some decent possession, with the ball whirring just past the post as Buffon scrambled across the goal. Soon after, Del Piero was fouled and hit the resulting free-kick high and wide as Pirlo also competed to have a try. Pirlo played a fine pass down the line, which his new AC Milan team-mate Zambrotta controlled and crossed to Toni, who knocked down for Perrotta to hit, but a fine recovery challenge denied him. Then came three successive corners, from which Romania were stretched and seemed to forget their defensive strategy as Toni wreaked havoc with a powerful header that was saved and knock-downs into dangerous areas, as Lobont bravely cleared the ball.

The Italians used their set pieces in a creative manner as the ball was played deep on the stroke of half time by Pirlo to Zambrotta who chipped the ball into the box to Toni who headed in but was wrongly flagged offside in a poor decision by the linesman as Italy’s luck deserted them. Italy began the second half with patient possession but were shocked after a poorly weighted back-header to Buffon fell into the path of Mutu, who swept home with great confidence past Buffon to send Romania into a unexpected lead. Just two minutes later Giorgio Chiellini headed the ball back across goal from a corner and Panucci stabbed home to equalize and relight Italian hopes. Yet the Romanians had further chances to retake the lead with Petre’s shot blocked by Grosso. The Lyon left-back then made a last ditch sliding tackle to stop Nicolita shooting as the Italians were short at the back.

Soon after, Cassano lifted a ball into Toni, who chested down to De Rossi, whose diving header was well saved by the athletic lunge of Lobont to his right. Yet Panucci’s fine performance had a turn for the worse as referee Tom Ovrebo gave a penalty for pulling. In the most tense of moments, Buffon showed why he is rated as the finest keeper in the world in some quarters with a wonderful save from Mutu’ well struck penalty. The Romanians appeared to rock the Italians, with Ambrosini brought on to steady the Italian ship. Toni went down under pressure when competing for a Cassano cross and appealed for a penalty but all Italian claims were waived away. Soon after a lofted pass from Pirlo was directed to Quagliarella via a Luca Toni knock-down but the Udinese striker failed to connect and was also called off-side.

In injury time the Romanians won a free-kick but it was wasted as Tamas fired over from distance ending the match in a draw, which adds great need of a win against France on the final Group C Matchday (which doesn’t guarantee their progress), while Romanian hopes are looking up as one of the favourites’ hopes linger by a thread after a fascinating encounter in Zurich.

Italy 1 – 1 Romania FT

After a footballing master-class against Italy, this most anticipated of matches is set to decide if all four sides can still progress on the final matchday. Marco Van Basten started with the same eleven players who provided a balance that played to their counter-attacking strengths and refuted claims from those such as Johan Cruyff, the Oranje legend and one of the pioneers of ‘totaalvoetbal’, who claims their rich footballing heritage is being betrayed with the use of two holding midfielders in Engelaar and De Jong. The duo performed heroically.

France on the other hand had to step up their pedestrian tempo and provide defensive pressure from the front. The return of Henry with both Benzema and Anelka dropped meant two similar styles as France kept their two holding midfielders, providing defensive stability. This time they were not expected to create with Ribery in an attacking trio alongside Govou and Malouda in a bid to support ex-Arsenal attacker Henry. Holland started aggressively with two foul in quick succession to halt any prolonged French possession. Soon after the bounce of the ball beat the experienced Lilian Thuram and found its way to Van Nistlerooy, who turned and shot rather than set up Kuyt. The Liverpool man was body checked by the wily Makelele in an action which deserved a booking, but Herbert Fandel did not caution the Chelsea man.

Soon after, France’s decent start continued as Malouda crossed to the far post for Ribery who headed wide. Yet Holland continued their fine form as Kuyt headed in Van Bronckhorst’s corner after easily fending off the poor aerial challenge of Malouda to give the Dutch a 1-0 lead after nine minutes. France almost hit back as Ribery dispossessed the giant Engelaar and drove at the Dutch defence, as Henry ran wide to create space for his compatriot but the Bayern man was stopped in full-flow. Some wonderful possession football by the Dutch created an opening for Sneidjer, whose shot was blocked, as France failed to pressure the orange shirts. A long ball from Van Bronckhorst beat Thuram with alarming ease and Kuyt pounced on the loose ball but shot over as with the defence in trouble.

The Dutch appeared to be in control as Van Nistlerooy turned wonderfully but France suddenly pounced into life as Sidney Govou shot from an acute angle at the near post under pressure but Van Der Sar saved sharply with his feet. France came back into the game to a certain extent as Govou had another shot blocked and soon after Malouda hit a shot from distance, which the Dutch keeper gathered. Soon after the veteran clutched onto Govou effort, while Ribery and Makelele also strode forward with the former using the run of the latter to create space for a shot, which the Manchester United keeper saved well once more. These three efforts in quick succession swung the momentum of the tie as Ribery broke down the right flank and crossed only for both Henry and Govou to evade the ball. Later, the busy Makelele fed Henry who turned and shot just wide.

Engelaar’s tendency to lose the ball in the first half caused him to be replaced by Arjen Robben, so impressive in the closing stages of Real Madrid’s season, as Van Basten tried to stem the tide of French attacks. Henry, quiet in the first half, beat two players and crossed for Ribery to win a corner off Van Bronckhorst. The Dutch were rocked after many deflections as the ball fell to Henry whose shot was brilliantly blocked by Oojier at point blank range. Henry was brilliantly played through be Malouda’s overhead kick but his lob was too long, and the finish was not typical of what one expects of the Barcelona man. Perhaps a season of playing on the left flank has taken away his sharpness in front of goal, despite scoring 19 last season (mostly against lesser sides).

Later Robben dribbled down the left flank and crossed for Sneidjer, who headed straight into the arms of Coupet. A world class goal from Holland stunned France as Van Nistlerooy did a roulette playing the ball into the path of Robben, who drove down the wing with electric pace and found Van Persie, who at the far post fired in with what seemed to be his first meaningful touch to double the Dutch lead. Soon after Robben switched to the right flank and dribbled with menace but his shot was too close to Coupet, who gathered well. Soon after, Robin Van Persie intercepted a lax Makelele pass, and advanced but was without support and his cut-back found no-one.

Sagnol bombed down the right and provided a brilliant cross for Henry to direct into the goal with the faintest of touches to bring France back into contention. Immediately, Arjen Robben, wonderfully dribbled in the box, shifted the ball to his left and fired a totally unexpected bullet of a shot past the shell-shocked Coupet to retake a two goal lead. The brilliant, but injury prone Dutchman stood totally perplexed, amazed at his own ability in this enthralling game. After Anelka and Gomis were brought on, Ribery beat De Jong with ease and pulled back only for Makelele to be the recipient, a more composed finisher would have made it 3-2 as the Chelsea man fluffed his shot. At the other end, a fine floated pass from midfield found Ruud Van Nistlerooy, who headed towards goal as Coupet scrambled back to knock it past the post. Soon after fine interplay between Van Bronckhorst and Sneidjer played in Van Persie with a cross-field pass, but Coupet rushed out and cleared the danger. Ribery fired a free-kick over after Makelele was fouled and with his miss went any hope of a France comeback. Evra’s cross was blocked and the Dutch countered once more as Robben sped up the pitch and fired in a shot from the edge of the area, but it flashed wide. Sneidjer topped off a stunning performance with a turn and shot into the top corner. Comprehensive victories over the two World Cup finalists and scoring 7 goals in turn, showed why this Netherlands side are true contenders for the Henri Delauney trophy.

France and Italy are now contesting for survival in Euro 2008, with their chances not in their hands, even with a win, while two years ago they were competing for the World Cup. Such has been their demise. The brilliant Dutch have qualified for the quarter finals, alongside Portugal and Croatia and have surely gained thousands of new fans with their stunning counter-attacking football. Van Basten’s substitutions were very attacking and bold, when another manager would have put on a defender to stem the French attacks, he went for broke and it paid off. Surely he’d rather stay on than leave to become Ajax coach this summer?

This was definitely the game of the tournament so far and the entertainment bar a few matches has been of high quality. Who needs England to make a tournament sparkle when we have the Oranje?

Holland 4 – 1 France FT

Euro 2008: Matchday Six Round Up

2008-06-18T11:08:00.002-07:00

Once again, the two contenders for the top spot met, this time in Group B. The Germans were unchanged following their relatively comprehensive defeat of Poland, while Petric, ineffective in the first game against co-hosts Austria was replaced by Rakitic, as they changed into a more cohesive formation. A generally lacklustre performance by the whole side reduced the expectations of the fans especially with match against the tournament favourites up next.

Naturally both sides were looking to exploit each others weaknesses, with German left-back Marcel Jansen the focus of much criticism along with Jens Lehmann’s capability with the long-range shot. In contrast, Luka Modric’s consistency in controlling the tempo throughout a game and the capability of the whole side to withstand a fast paced game was also questioned. The Germans looked to use Ballack’s vision to progress further up the pitch as Jansen’s cross reached the box and Gomez nicely set it up for Podolski to volley, but his effort was blocked. The Croatians looked to make their own impact on the game with a fine passing move ending in Mertesacker heading the ball clear under heavy pressure earning the centre back a free kick. Later Metzelder, the injury prone Real Madrid player, had to execute a perfectly timed sliding tackle on Olic, as he ran onto a testing through-ball from Modric.

The Croatian pressure continued as Kranjcar spread the play to the left flank where fine interplay involving Rakitic, Pranjic and Olic drew the German defence deep into the box allowing space for a fine cross to the far post to be made. Srna connected ahead of Jansen who was poor positionally, and fired past Jens Lehmann, who had no chance. Further Croatian possession saw Rakitic work the ball into the box and an Olic knockdown into a large hole in the German defence allowed Kranjcar to shoot but pressure from Jansen saw him fire over in a fine chance. But the Germans came back as Ballack’s free-kick, perhaps the second decent dead ball shot since Pirlo against Holland a few days back, was saved by Pletikosa.

After a much delayed corner, due to the referee attempting to stop any shoving and shirt pulling, Frings whipped in a decent corner, only for Metzelder to head over. Corluka beat Jansen with ease and ran down the line with no opposition. The Manchester City full-back passed across the edge of the box and the ball ended up at the feet of Olic who lifted a pass into the stride of Kranjcar, who controlled with his chest and volleyed, albeit it straight at Jens Lehmann, who saved brilliantly. From the resulting corner, Lehmann was forced to punch under pressure as Bilic’s side were on the ascendancy as the first half ended. The lack of urgency in the German midfield in comparison to their competitive, hungry opponents was perhaps the key reason as to their lack of success in the opening 45 minutes.

The poor Jansen was replaced by ‘speed merchant’ Odonkor as Germany looked to assert their influence on the game. This was evident in the early stages of the second half as Lahm’s cross was awkwardly punched out by Pletikosa as Ballack lifted the rebound over. Modric then tested Lehmann with a dipping shot after a move involving Ballack broke down for Germany. There was possession but a lack of end product as Gomez ran towards the box, after Corluka mistimed his interception, but his cross was behind Klose. But as they began to improve on their first half showing, a cross from Rakitic deflected off Podolski towards the goal. Lehmann managed to touch it onto the post but the ball rebounded fortuitously for Olic to tap into an empty net as the tournament favourites were thrown into despair.

Yet they almost drew level as Ballack spread the ball wide to substitute Schweinsteiger, who teased his marker and fired a low shot across the goal mouth which Pletikosa did well to divert from the goal. Yet the Germans hit back once more as Lahm crossed from the left and Ballack headed back across the goal with aid of a deflection and Podolski volleyed in past the keeper to level with David Villa, who also has 3 goals as the Germans mounted a late fight back. Yet any hopes of scoring an equalizer were dashed as the volatile Schweinsteiger reacted to Jerko Leko’s cynical challenge.

The German shoved his fellow substitute, who held his face as he collapsed dramatically, despite no contact being made against his face, but referee Frank De Bleeckere did not hesitate to send off the left winger as Joachim Low’s side suffered their first defeat, which significantly reduced their chances of them finishing top and avoiding Portugal in the quarter finals. The game ended as Germany tried to launch the ball into the Croatia box from a free kick after Luka Modric was booked for a poor challenge on Torsten Frings, a reported Arsenal target. The 31 year old Werder Bremen man broke up play well on occasions but was unable to stop the tides of Croatia attacks as his side failed to really make an impact until the dying moments.

Croatia celebrated with their charismatic lawyer-guitarist-manager Slaven Bilic as the side progressed into the quarter finals, adding their name to a list of favourites including Portugal and Holland (after initial impressive showings), whilst temporarily chalking off Germany’s hopes, at least in the eyes of the tabloid media. The ineffective performances of Gomez and Klose will see calls for Podolski, best young player in the 2006 World Cup, to be used in a striking role rather than the left win position he currently occupies. There he doesn’t provide the defensively frail Marcel Jansen protection as shown frequently as the Bayern Munich full back was repeatedly beaten in Germany’s opening two games. Fritz was anonymous on the right flank while Odonkor is unnecessary unless a counter-attacking formation is utilised. The loss of Bernd Schneider now appears to be revealing itself against greater opposition.

Perhaps this first upset of Euro 2008 will be the first of many concerning Europe’s giants as the Croats try to win it for the injured Eduardo. Bilic looks very tactically sharp following his very effective changes from the opening game. The Croatian Football Federation president Vlatko Markovic must be privately congratulating himself on securing Bilic’s signature until 2010.

Croatia 2 – 1 Germany FT

The Austrian side performed heroically in their opening game and were by no means humiliated by Croatia as expected by most viewers. After co-hosts were knocked out yesterday, they will be wishing for a different fate with all hopes the hosts of resting on the lowest ranked side in the tournament. Both sides need a victory to remain within a chance of qualifying, while a loss would have been disaster. Obviously we have to mention the sole English presence with Howard Webb and his team of officials refereeing this seemingly unglamorous tie.

A change from the 3-5-2 formation to the standard 4-4-2 allowed Hickersberger greater defensive stability in what was expected to be a physical contest. Austria could have countered as Korkmaz found room on the left flank but the winger delayed as Austria built up some possession with playmaker Ivanschitz taking the first shot of the game, but it dragged wide. The influential midfielder then tried his luck from 32m out, as he curled a free kick over the wall but Boruc gathered well. Later, the Polish defence, still playing a high line were caught out with a terrible back pass as Martin Harnik ran through but Celtic’s Boruc got a vital touch on his slide rule shot. The same man was denied from a few yards out after Korkmaz dribbled down the flank and cut back as the Austrian striker shot straight down the middle of the goal.

The Polish keeper was having a brilliant game as he denied the Austrians a third time with Poland cut open with a finely weighted ball as Leitgeb was played onside by the defence but his shot was too close to Boruc, who rushed out swiftly to close the angle once more. Soon after Ivanschitz hit a rising shot from the edge of the area as Austria looked to take the lead in this open game, where defence was obviously not the priority. Once more Boruc came to the rescue, rushing out and denying Garics the chance to cross back into the danger area.

Even the Austrian centre back Stranzl roamed forward and he beat his markers when surrounded in the corner with a delightful nutmeg but his pull back was behind everyone. The lack of defensive pressure and slow tempo allowed Leitgeb to rush forward but he failed to control the cross as it ran away from him. Immediately the dominant Poles were shocked as Roger Guerreiro, who scored his first goal for his adopted country after a smart ball to the back post was controlled by Saganowski, who then cut inside and shot but goalkeeper Jurgen Macho’s touch moved the ball away from the goal and unfortunately the last defender as the Brazilian-pole tapped in the rebound. There were claims of offside despite the keeper and the last defender getting a touch before it reached Roger.

The dominant Austrians regressed as the momentum swung and Poland began to see more of the ball with Krzynowek taking a shot from distance, which the ex-Sunderland man Macho saving to his left with ease. The first half ended as Austria saw another sight of goal with Stranzl at the far post stretching for Leitgeb’s over-hit free-kick. In a bid to improve on their lead, Leo Beenhakker swapped the suicidal defensive capabilities (or lack of) for Golanski, who struggled against Germany’s Fritz in their opening game, a player who was anonymous in today’s earlier kick-off. The substitute brought down Ivanschitz causing penalty claims which Howard Webb rejected.

A fine pass from Guerreiro released Ebi Smolarek, whose shot was spilled by Macho but cleared on the second attempt. Jurgen Macho saved from close range after Bak volleyed from a Guerreiro cross, and he added to this one with a punch from Lewandowski’s follow up. As Poland pressed, it was Macho that was busy once more, having to tip over Krzynowek’s long range free-kick. Austria had six minutes left to salvage a draw as Proedl headed wide from a corner. Fatigue set in as their play was never as aggressive or high-paced as their opening 30 minutes. Yet in the dying minutes of injury time, Howard Webb gave the host nation a penalty, after pushing and shoving in the box, and the veteran Ivica Vastic, Austrian player of the year, smashed home the penalty to equalize. Apparently the lucky chap will receive a lifetime supply of beer just for scoring. Yet Hickersberger and his side will rue their missed opportunities in the opening half, hich could have given them a priceless win.

The host nation will play Germany in a local derby in their final group match with need of a win to have any chance of qualifying but have defender Proedl suspended. An exciting finale aided the Austrians and added further excitement to a tournament that has burst into life. Imagine the scenes if they qualify for the next round. Just imagine.

Austria 1 – 1 Poland FT

Euro 2008: Matchday Five Round Up

2008-06-18T11:08:00.001-07:00

After opening day victories over Switzerland and Turkey, Czech Republic and Portugal came head to head in the second match day of Group A. The collective play of Scolari’s side meets a Czech side that hasn’t reached its peak with a lack of direction in attack, shown by using the selfless running of Milan Baros preferred to the static Jan Koller as the neat passing of Karel Buckner’s side looked to secure a quarter final spot.

The eastern Europeans started the brighter with Libor Sionko’s shot being blocked as he dribbled into towards the box from the right flank. Yet Portugal cut open the Czech defence as Ronaldo ran into the box after a deft touch from Nuno Gomes. Ronaldo appeared to round Cech but the brilliant Chelsea keeper denied him, and blocked Deco’s follow up, but the out of favour Barcelona man shot on the third opportunity his side were presented and the ball crept in after deflecting in off a Czech defender. The Portuguese played a patient build up as space opened up for Armando Petit to rush forward and shoot from distance, but Cech gathered well

Yet the Czechs rushed forward as Baros headed over, and Sionko dribbled to the byline getting the better of Pepe, but his cut back was met by none of his team mates but Petit anxiously cleared for a Czech corner. The former Rangers’ man, his country’s best performer in the last match, timed his run perfectly to beat Petit to the ball from Plasil and headed past Ricardo into the net to level the score. As the Czechs began to influence proceedings more with a higher tempo and the earlier ball to lone frontman Milan Baros, Polak was booked as he overran the ball and lunged in a 50-50 with Real’s Pepe. Yet Portugal showed why they are considered one of the favourites as Deco strode forward and aimed for the top right hand corner but fired over while countryman Ronaldo shot through a crowd of players in a bid to surprise Cech, who once more was unfazed.

The Portuguese struggled with set pieces as Plasil whipped in a ball from the left to the far post, which was knocked back into the danger area. As Portugal slowed the game down, Chelsea’s new signing Boswinga showed fine strength to win the ball back having lost it, but lacked the composure to lay the ball off. This was evident as his over exuberance in the tackle earned him a yellow card having once more lost the ball. The ‘Republic of Czechoslovakia’, according to David Pleat, began to break frequently as another early tackle, this time by Simao prevented this forays into their half. Yet a fine dribble by Baros, having not scored once in 16 appearances for Portsmouth on loan, allowed him to trick his way down the right wing beating several Portuguese players, but his final pass was lacking as he aimed a cross for team mates gathering at the far post.

Then Ronaldo hit another, left footed this time, powerful shot at Cech, who palmed the ball away at full stretch. Then bursting forward towards the Czech defence, he fell dramatically, as the fans glimpsed the unsavoury side of the Real Madrid target and stayed down clutching his face. Immediately, as the play resumed to normal after Paulo Ferreira received a nasty cut by his eye, Ronaldo fired a dipping free-kick, which Cech was once more equal to. The game was typical of a recent upturn in the quality of the games with chances at both ends and a fascinating contest between two contrasting styles: neat possession and the swift counter attack.

Pepe, having tackled Baros, strode forward with ease to the opposition box and crossed to win a corner. Yet the Czechs continued their improvement as the very lively Sionko dribbled to the byline, from a brilliant pass from Matejovsky, once more and cut back, with Baros not reading the direction of the cross as it trickled across the goalmouth before being cleared. The slow build up of Portugal almost broke through the wall of red that is the Czech defence, as a pass from Simao luckily found Nuno Gomes, who improved well by turning well from three defenders before firing on target but at Cech. The Benfica striker stole the ball from Lazio defender Rozenhal but his shot was blocked as the former Newcastle man recovered well.

Deco drove forward and poked a pass through to Simao, whose shot was blocked by Cech while Grygera blocked Ronaldo’s follow up. The Atletico Madrid winger then ran forward in another attack but his pull-back was too close to Cech. While Scolari altered his tactics when defending set pieces, reducing the chance to counter attack by bringing back more players, still Ujfalusi’s flick on attracted two players who couldn’t connect in a very good chance highlighting a fragility in this aspect of his side’s play.

Yet it didn’t matter as Ronaldo hit a low, early shot from Deco’s square pass and it passed through the legs of Grygera, to disguise it from Cech until late on when he was helpless, allowing Portugal to take the lead. The Czech Republic brought on Jan Koller alongside Milan Baros to provide an aerial threat, as Ricardo flapped at another dangerous free-kick. Soon after, Bruckner’s side threatened once more as an early cross from Baros was touched on by Koller, but the finish was lacking from Sionko, who played in an advanced role late in the game. The set-pieces of Plasil always disturbed Portugal, but it was their quick thinking that allowed a quick free kick to be played on towards Ronaldo, who ran free and faced Cech but squared to Porto’s Quaresma, who slotted home to confirm their place in the quarter finals.

The fine combination play of Portugal allowed them to overcome an improved Czech side but the sycophantic and hyperbolic presentation of Ronaldo did once more overshadow the ITV coverage, mentioning him once in every minute of playing time (93) and 27 times during the half time break. They must really find another angle to their coverage of Portugal to appeal to all aspects of their varied audience.

Czech Republic 1 – 3 Portugal FT

When Turkey and Switzerland last met, the game ended on a sour note in a 2006 World Cup play-off as television showed images of fighting in the tunnel as Switzerland qualified through the away goals rule despite losing 4-2 on the night. No doubt the game would have had revenge and a shot at qualification high on the list of priorities. The hosts had already lost captain and star striker Alexander Frei and Kobi Kuhn was under pressure to restore pride lost in the opening day defeat to the Czech Republic. Erin Derdiyok, of whom commentators will be so swift as to remind us of his debut goal against England, replaced the Dortmund man.

Arda Turan, chased by Newcastle among others, showed a flash of skill as he did the roulette, moving away from two Swiss players in the opening stages. Decent possession football by Turkey pressured the Swiss into deeper areas with the four attacking players involved heavily. The Swiss looked to up the tempo by taking the quick throw or the early forward pass to throw Fatih Terrim’s side from their stride.

As the rain poured down in Basel, Inler decided to use the pitch to fire a low shot that could have troubled Volkan, who gathered. Arsenal’s Senderos made a perfectly timed sliding tackle on Tuncay after Arda Turan had mad headway through the Swiss defence. The young defender had a lapse in concentration having gathered he ball in the left back area, he blindly passed down the line to a white shirt, sparking goalmouth scramble. Inler found Hakan Yakin wide on the left and he drove forward and hit a stinging drive which was palmed away by Volkan, who bettered himself with a diving save from a Yakin free-kick once more.

Turkey increased their pressure following a Swiss spell of possession, as Tuncay turned well on the edge of the box but was fouled to win a free-kick, from which Nihat crossed only for Benaglio to clear onto the head of Galatasaray youngster Turan who hit the post. Senderos played a long ball to Derdiyok, who ran past the keeper and cut back accurately for Hakan Yakin to tap in as the ball was held up in one of the many puddles on the pitch. Yet the same man became the villain in the following minute as Behrami crossed for Yakin, who was in an identical position to his goal but hit his shot wide, as the Swiss frequently played the ball in the air to progress without the disadvantage of the pitch, which hindered the more cultured style of the Turks. This tactic brought out the best in the more physical Swiss with Erin Derdiyok pressing well from the front.

Turkey seemed to have adapted to the wet pitch after half time but their improvement was dampened by Hakan Balta’s blatant handball and he was rightly booked. Barnetta countered as the Swiss looked to extend their fragile lead but his shot never looked like troubling Volkan as he sliced it wide. Lazio’s Behrami stole the ball deep in the Turkish half and drove to the byline where he did well to cross albeit to no-one. Yet Turkey equalized from a simple cross as Senturk headed straight at the keeper Benaglio, who was at fault by slapping the ball into the net, rather than lifting it over his goal. The centre backs were also poor in holding the line throughout the game.

Nihat then shot from the edge of the area; he tried to claim a penalty for handball from Senderos, whose hands were firmly behind his back. With their hopes predominantly resting on this game, Turkey almost went ahead, as a fine Turan pass reached Tuncay, whose cross evaded his strike partner as he stretched for it. As the game came into the final ten minutes, Aurelio found an opportunity as the ball broke in the area but his shot was valiantly blocked. Turkey piled forward for a free-kick but Nihat’s dead ball was cleared by the first man and Switzerland broke with three attackers against one as Derdiyok slid the ball through, and it was knocked it back to Vonlanthen, whose shot was saved while Volkan bravely grabbed the loose ball as well before Yakin could follow up.

There was blood and panic as Turkey rushed to bring Emre Asik back on the pitch, who suffered a deep cut and the Swiss drove forward to find a winner but Asik was waved back on and the Turks broke and the brilliant Arda Turan, whose suggested £13 million transfer value has surely risen, ran down the left and cut in and scored the winner with the aid of a deflection. The improvement in conditions surely aided the Turks and sadly the co-hosts are knocked out just five days into the tournament despite their spirited performance. Now what is sure is the winner between an interesting game between the Czech Republic and Turkey will join Portugal in the quarter final.

Switzerland 1 – 2 Turkey FT

Euro 2008: Matchday Four Round Up

2008-06-18T11:07:00.000-07:00

Perennial underachievers Spain took on Russia as they finally look to add to the 1964 European Championship success inspired by Luis Suarez. As they attempt to find the correct balance to win the tournament, Arsenal’s Fabregas started from the bench as Xavi started as playmaker with Villarreal’s Marcos Senna supporting him in the holding role. Against them Gus Hiddink leads a Russia side shorn of star striker Pavel Pogrebnyak and playmaker Andrei Arshavin in hope of upsetting one of the tournament favourites as Romania did so to France yesterday. A national hero in South Korea and having also led Australia to the World Cup, his international achievements cannot be questioned.

Despite being unbeaten for 18 months with victories over Italy and France, Spain played with Villa up alone being supported with a creative midfield. The inclusion of Torres may have affected the style of play according to some (having only scored twice in 18 months for his country), despite his qualities as they strained to wins in their build up to the Euro. The Liverpool hit man cut in from the left flank but hit his shot weakly. Soon after Real Madrid’s Sergio Ramos played a lofted pass to Villa, looking to find a new club, who shot over under pressure from the Russian defenders. As the Russians looked to break up the Spanish monopoly of the possession with a few hard tackles, which Referee Konrad Plautz allowed, Russia almost stole the advantage with a fine spell of passing in the channels behind the full-backs and cutting the ball back across goal as Semshov nearly swept in, if not for the Spanish defence who closed in swiftly.

Torres ran down the channel from a wonderful Capdevila pass and lost his defender with a lucky break but had brilliant composure to find Villa, who slotted home into the empty net with the keeper already committed. Any criticisms of their partnership appeared to disappear, yet as Spain were celebrating, Russia caught Spain asleep as the cut-back evaded all of the Spanish defence and fell to Zyryanov, who sidefooted his shot against the post. Immediately Spain countered and Torres was found one on one against Akinfeev but the angles were against him. Villa was found by an Iniesta through ball and shot at the Russian keeper despite an acute angle, drawing a corner.

Iniesta was beginning to find room to run into and their ‘tika-taka’ passing patterns created openings for ‘La Furia Roja’ but Torres shot weakly at Akinfeev. Spain patiently passed at the back for an opening until Xavi played Torres in down the flank and he turned his man with ease and passed to David Silva whose shot was blocked for a corner. Pavluchenko first hit a free kick into the wall then fired the ball against the bar, which didn’t count as he fouled his marker. Yet from another poor Russia dead ball, Spain broke with wonderful agility as Capdevila gathered the ball and laid off the ball to Iniesta, who dropped his shoulder one way than the other, confusing his marker as he slipped a perfectly timed pass into Villa, who slotted home a second time, through the keeper’s legs.

As these Group D sides threatened to match yesterday’s fine performance between the Dutch and the Italians, with the Russians playing their part with adventurous forward play, the tournament has shown signs of bursting into life. The Russians started with a high tempo and plenty of possession as Bystrov headed softly into the arms of Casillas. As Spain’s influence in midfield waned, Aragones brought on Arsenal’s Fabregas for Torres, who did not appear satisfied at all, concerning the early timing of the substitution. The young Spaniard made a fine run to open up space for Villa to run into as he shot into the grateful arms of Akinfeev. Yet Russia’s increasing influence allowed Bilyaletdinov to shoot, albeit wide of Casillas’ goal. David Silva almost added a third for Spain if not for a final, tackle to allow the ball to be gathered by the Russian keeper.

Iniesta made way for Santi Cazorla of Villarreal, as Aragones perhaps used the second half to find other styles of play to use later in the tournament. As Villa played in Fabregas, who made the run but showed his lack of pace as Akinfeev stole the ball before him. Later Ramos burst down the right flank and crossed for Villa, but Aniukov cut the ball out in an example of fine defending. Senna headed at Akinfeev from the resulting corner and had another attempt which the 22 year old Russian keeper caught with ease.

The Spanish queue for a shot, with Cazorla having the best opening but he delayed and eventually David Silva fired high over the bar. After their slow start, Spain came back into the game and ended it as Fabregas found Villa with a wonderfully weighted pass, and he turned his defender before slotting home at the near post fooling the keeper. As they dropped off the tempo with the game won, Russia grabbed a consolation goal with a well worked corner as Pavluchenko thumped in a header at the far post. The Spanish relaxed in defence as Semak controlled and tamely volleyed the ball straight at Casillas after the ball was pumped back in.

Then the man of the match David Villa broke and held the ball before lifting the ball over his defender to Xavi, a wonderfully weighted pass, with the Barcelona midfielder volleying at Akinfeev, and Fabregas headed into an empty net to round up a wonderful performance by the Spanish. Cesc’s passing and off the ball running created space for his team-mates before scoring in a fine 35 minutes of play. No doubt Villa raised his transfer value by £10 million or so, that is certain but, in looking at Spain, we have seen false horizons before, is this another?

Finally both sides scored in a Euro 2008 game, while this game was also the highest scoring game in the tournament so far, with plenty of entertainment. Hopefully it continues.

Spain 4 – 1 Russia FT

The holders Greece were written off once again despite improving since their triumph four years ago. Otto Rehhagel has a tough job to repeat his success in Portugal, yet a collection of tough defenders, a deep-lying midfielder in Basinas and a free-scoring forward in Fanis Gekas could spring another surprise. Yet an inconsistency in their performance has made Otto’s job more about striking a balance between Jekyll and Hyde. In contrast, Sweden relied on the evergreen Henrik Larsson and Zlatan Ibrahimovic, who hasn’t scored for his country in his last 14 games, with injury-prone ex-Arsenal player Freddie Ljungberg captaining the side.

Charisteas, who scored the winner in 2004, was busy in the opening stages, as he was booked for an excited lunge on Hansson, while soon after he burst down the right side and cut into the box, but ended a fine run with a scuffed shot. The Swedes reacted with some patient possession football and a Svensson volley from a cleared corner. Another fine move was made by the recipient of the final ball was clearly offside. As the Swedes looked to create the openings in this clash of the counter-attacking sides, Ljungberg chipped the ball forward for Ibrahimovic to help on, but his flick fell just over the bar. After a very slow tempo opening in a match between two counter attacking sides, the Greeks went forward as Juventus-bound Mellberg was forced to head over his own bar.

Wilhelmsson back heeled to Larsson, who was unwilling to shoot and made one pass too many as another move broke down. As the Greeks were content at sitting deep and soaking up moderate Swedish pressure, with the crowd booing their cautious passing across the back four, it was up to their opponents to score to bring the defending champions more into the game. They countered as Charisteas ran down the right and shot high at the near post but Isaksson had it covered. To be honest the most interesting moment in the first half was a seemingly painful injury to Zlatan Ibrahimovic, as Wilhelmsson’ cross from the left caused few problems to a side, which is in its element when defending.

Sweden finally got in behind the deep lying Greeks as Wilhelmsson ran in and lobbed the veteran Nikopolidis, but lacked the composure to finish accurately as the ball landed behind the goal. There wasn’t much action as almost every Swedish attack was ended by the wrong pass or movement as the Greeks looked to counter with Giorgios Samaras replacing Gekas at half time to provide a focal point with which to release any prolonged pressure on their defence. Sweden appeared to forget all defensive duties as Karagounis was allowed to shoot on two occasions but the defence recovered sufficiently to block both attempts and the ball to land in Isaksson’s arms on the latter occasion.

Yet as all were about to fall into a boredom induced coma, Zlatan Ibrahimovic scored with a stunning strike after a one-two with Larsson, to score his first international goal since October 2005. So disappointing against English opposition, perhaps British viewers could see ho highly rated the Inter attacker is on mainland Europe. Rehhagel threw on another striker to regain the lead but Sweden attacked once more and Ljungberg should have made it two but his shot was saved and Elmander attempted to lob the (for once) disorganised Greek defence and the panic which this induced allowed Hanssen to score in the scrappiest goal this tournament so far.

Four years ago, the Greeks were seen as the freshest side in Portugal, yet as Ansas fell victim to cramp on 82 minutes, one could see all the omens turning away from them. Torosidis almost brought a goal back as he burst into the area and shot from a narrow angle, when perhaps going down to gain a penalty would have been the better option. Zlatan’s goal was naturally the high point of a woeful game.

While we may despair of Greece’s tactics, these were similar to what won them the tournament in Lisbon and they still have an outside chance of reaching the quarter finals. The two winners on the opening match day of Group D will meet on Saturday in an intriguing prospect.

Greece 0 – 2 Sweden FT

Euro 2008: Matchday Three Round Up

2008-06-18T11:06:00.002-07:00

When the Groups were announced, one caught the eye. Immediately Romania was ruled out with any chance of qualifying, despite finishing above Holland in qualifying and beating them as well. There is always a ‘Group of Death’ and Raymond Domenech had to call upon a younger group of players in its opening match as the veterans were ruled out by injury and fitness concerns with Henry and Vieira replaced by Benzema and Toulalan respectively. In the crowd Arsene Wenger looked on at his country men and any potential signings with Samir Nasri on the bench.

From the outset France were afforded possession in areas away from the Romanian net, but were closed down in numbers when they moved into advanced positions on the pitch as the Romanians played a counter-attacking game. Ex-Real Madrid president Florentino Perez claimed Makelele couldn’t pass more than three metres, and he certainly proved the Galactico loving Spaniard wrong with a lovely pass that split the Romanian defence to find Malouda, who was blocked by the keeper. Yet perhaps it wasn’t what they needed with the defensive midfielder creating their sporadic chances; the creative Ribery having little influence on the match. Nicolas Anelka tried to keep that attack going but couldn’t provide the cross required for another chance to be fashioned.

Any criticism of a lack of attacking creativity from the central areas of the French side, where two defensive midfielders provided a shield for the defence, was firmly shunned. As France continued to search for an opening, Anelka headed over from a corner mid way through the first half in what was their best chance, although the ball came to him quickly. The Chelsea striker then worked some space on the right flank and decided to shoot from an acute angle rather than cross to Benzema in the box. A fine delivery from the left flank sparked anxiety in the French defence, with two corners creating problems.

This style caused the French forwards to roam and search for the ball in frustration when attacking. Their defensive play lacked any aggression with none of the front six pressing the Romanian defence, who were allowed to play the ball out from the back without any pressure. This complacency added signs of Romania scoring from a set-piece or a swift counter-attack. Malouda was criticised for his efforts (or lack of) in the first half, but showed glimpses of his old Lyon self by twice beating his man and firing over, when the cross was perhaps the better option. At least there was urgency in the French attack. At the other end, Sagnol was booked for hauling down Mutu, who attacked him in a similar fashion.

A decent break occurred for the French as Ribery finally ran in behind the opposition defence and cut back to Benzema as Anelka ran forward to leave some space for his strike partner, whose shot was straight at Lobont. The young attacker, who has attracted the interest of most of Europe’s big guns, did well to run and create some space in from of the goal, but once more his accuracy was far off as he dragged his shot wide. The same pattern of play occurred for the French as they allowed Romania the ball in defence and failed to press them, a major issue in their lack of creativity, thus meaning Bafe Gomis, the ‘new Drogba’, came on for Anelka, reflecting on his explosive style of play.

Yet his inexperience did not help the French attack as he lost the ball in areas where another man would make the right pass or shot. Samir Nasri came on and always wanted the ball and was involved frequently in the closing stages, but none of the attacking players could break through the yellow wall of Romania. The slow tempo had to be raised and the French could not do so as Romania broke and held the ball in the corner winning a free-kick. The free-kick virtually destroyed any hopes of a French win. The Romanians have an organised style which the Dutch and the Italians will also struggle to break down.

Domenech will look to the stars as he attempts to steer his side away from the humiliation that they suffered in the 2002 World Cup, while a 0-0 draw adds to an already low goals to games ratio in a tournament where one would have been forgiven for predicting open matches with bland sides such as England not qualifying.

Romania 0 – 0 France FT

There is always tension in the Dutch camp, with several past confrontations coming in the days before a major tournament. Clarence Seedorf rejected a call-up on the basis that he wouldn’t feature regularly, while Mark Van Bommel refuses to feature under the stewardship of Van Basten. And a training ground incident invited the media to bring up whispers of a rift between Arsenal’s Van Persie and Real Madrid’s Sneidjer, although it was played down by the latter.

It is fitting that Holland’s camp is united with a game against World Cup winners Italy the ultimate test of character. Their previous forays in International tournaments have handed them the toughest group stage draws such in Euro 2004 (Germany, Czech Republic and Latvia) or the 2006 World Cup (Argentina, Ivory Coast and Serbia & Montenegro). They must be cursing their luck this time around as well.

While France’s utilisation of two defensive midfielders was not necessary, Holland’s vulnerable defence means this two-man shield of De Jong and the giant Engelaar is important and fits into their style well where three attacking midfielders support Ruud van Nistlerooy. The use of this new formation has meant they have come in from criticism, most notably from Oranje legend Johan Cruyff, who claims they are abandoning their total football heritage.

A high tempo start from Holland allowed Sneidjer to exhibit some fine touches and a neat turn, but Italy showed their efficiency with Di Natale getting on the end of a long pass but his cross was too pacy for Luca Toni to connect with. Real Madrid’s Dutch maestro nutmegged the Italian defender and fed Van Nistlerooy whose shot was blocked. Van Der Vaart broke soon after a Sneidjer free-kick was locked and shot low at Buffon, who comfortably saved. Yet the assured passing of Pirlo allowed Italy to gain a footing in the game as Toni headed wide, as Di Natale ran on in hope of connecting to the 39 goal Bayern attacker’s header.

Holland cut open Italy’s defence as Van Nistlerooy ran past Buffon but stumbled and the angle closed to shoot as Donadoni’s side were given another warning. Sneidjer whipped in a dangerous free-kick, which Materazzi just about cleared with Van Nistlerooy lurking. As Van Der Vaart whipped in another ball, Buffon punched and Sneidjer lashed the ball back into the box and Van Nistlerooy tapped it in. Hesitant in his celebration, Van Nistlerooy perhaps knew his offside position but the very contentious goal (a horrendous decision by the linesman) stood as the Italians protested with Luca Toni being booked.

Ex-Arsenal defender Van Bronckhorst cleared off his own line from a Pirlo corner and set up a wonderful counter attack as he ran deep into the Italy half and crossed to the far post where Dirk Kuyt headed back across and the wonderful Sneidjer cleverly hooked the ball over Buffon to double the lead of the Dutch. Di Natale then volleyed from a cross through the legs of Boulahrouz, which goalkeeper Van Der Sar saw late but managed to save at the second attempt having originally fumbled as the Italians gave a reminder of their quality. But their defence shorn of Cannavaro was shaky as Barzagli and Materazzi failed to clear allowing the Dutch to have another attempt on goal.

Van Der Vaart split the Italian defence with a wonderful pass through to Van Nistlerooy, who was brilliantly denied by Buffon, who once again displayed his agility of body and mind. In what was becoming the game of the tournament so far, Italy attempted to hit back as Udinese’s Di Natale fired narrowly over. Yet the striker was lacking any central support from the Milan trio in midfield, who lack the legs to consistently make runs forward unlike possible replacements Roma’s De Rossi and Aquilani.

By bringing on Grosso and Del Piero, Italy attempted to add fresh attacking impetus to their side, with the latter firing in a snap-shot when surrounded by Orange shirts, which was saved comfortably by Dutch Captain Van Der Sar. As Holland looked to defend and play on the break, they brought off Van Nistlerooy for Arsenal’s Robin Van Persie, who was supposed to be a doubt for their opener. Engelaar played a fine pass through to Van Persie, who was onside, but had the ball dummied to him by Van Der Vaart, who was in an offside position.

At the other end Toni broke clear but lifted it high over the goal without his typical composure in a one on one situation. Soon after Grosso broke free and Van Der Sar parried as he did with stunning agility to keep out a brilliant dead ball effort from Pirlo. Immediately, the Dutch broke with typical fluidity and Feyenoord’s Van Bronckhorst cut back to Kuyt whose chip failed but the tireless Liverpool man regained his composure and crossed for the left back to head the ball in amid the despairing lunge of the last defender to kill the game off.

Then the substitute Ibrahim Afellay, a wonderful young prospect who played a large part in PSV Eindhoven’s defeat of Tottenham Hotspur in the UEFA Cup, tricked his man with a stepover and shot against the top of the bar in what would have rounded a wonderful night for Dutch football. Van Persie reminded fans why he is so highly rated by Wenger and Van Basten by squeezing away from three Italian defenders and hitting a fierce shot wide. Yet the Italians had a final chance as Cassano crossed to Toni, who laid the ball off to Ambrosini whose shot deflected agonizingly wide.

A stunning performance by the Dutch defeated the World Cup Winners, yet the created hype may yet work against them. The wonderful attacking duo of Van Der Vaart and Sneidjer created the majority of their chances and were very well complemented by the lively Kuyt and the very hard-working Engelaar and De Jong. Donadoni’s attacking tactics did not give the result the Azzurri were expecting but providing some sumptuous attacking football, with the margins of victory and defeat so slim: an offside decision and two counter-attacks, before which Italy were very close to scoring. The brilliant Van Bronckhorst showed that age is not a limiting factor as he stormed up and down the line constantly.

We have another favourite added to a small group of teams fancying their chances and for Dutch football, I hope they do not falter at any hurdle as they have done so often in the past. Perhaps it is fitting that twenty years ago Marco Van Basten scored a stunning volley against the USSR and won Euro 88 as a player. Maybe now his time has come again.

Holland 3 – 0 Italy FT

Euro 2008: Matchday Two Round Up

2008-06-18T11:06:00.001-07:00

A side, whose own fans were against their participation in the Euros, despite co-hosting the tournament, Austria must have been bracing themselves for humiliation this summer. Playing a fine Croatia, whose play is predominantly dictated by the clever Modric and Kranjcar, in their first competitive game in two and half years would not have been high on their wish list, even if they were shorn of Arsenal striker Eduardo.

And two minutes in, their worst dreams were realised when they conceded a penalty after smart work by Modric in the corner to slip in Olic who was fouled by the experienced Rene Aufhauser, who set a new record time for a penalty being conceded. And the schemer of slight build confidently slotted the ball down the middle past ex-Sunderland keeper Jurgen Macho. The Croatians continued to dominate with intelligent movement and incisive passing patterns allowing them to work their way around Austria with ease. The co-hosts themselves were reduced to speculative shots from distance from the scraps of possession they were afforded in the opening match of Group B. Yet they missed good chance when Prodl headed wide from an Ivanschitz free-kick.

Fine work by Ivica Olic was rewarded by a free-kick after Pogatetz wrestled him to the ground, having already been booked for complained concerning the penalty decision, the big defender was on thin ice. The free-kick itself was unsuccessful. Corluka’s cross found its way to Petric, who sliced his shot, despite having time and space on his side, as Croatia searched for the killer goal. A swift counter attack almost brought a second after Pletikosa’s fine distribution, but the final through ball couldn’t find its way to the striker. At the other end Austria cut open the Croatia defence with a perfectly weighted ball from Ivanschitz but the cut-back from Harnik was cleared by Slaven Bilic’s side who gathered themselves in time. Their increasing use of width brought them back in the game as Croatia slowed the tempo as the first half grew to a close.

Austria were the better side in the opening minutes of the second half as Harnik twice cut back to dangerous areas, with the first dummied to no-one and the second read by none of his team mates as he opted for power. Yet their spell of possession could have been undone as Modric crossed and Olic almost stole in, resulting in corner. As Austria began to exert their influence on the game, Modric released some of their pressure by controlling, with allegedly a handball, and playing a fine ball out the left, which Olic controlled and took down the line, eventually drawing in a foul from Prodl who was booked.

But the co-hosts didn’t give up as Harnik whipped in a dangerous cross, which Pletikosa got a hand to and averted any danger. Then the substitute No.11 Korkmaz cut in past two Croatian players and won the free-kick. This was followed by a goal mouth scramble with a poor clearance resulting in Harnik firing over from distance. As time was running out, Vastic headed towards the goal, which was almost fumbled by Pletikosa, but luck was not on their side, as Ivanschitz shot, albeit straight at the keeper. Korkmaz then fired in a shot from distance, which swerved in from the left flank. Pletikosa did well to parry it away from the goal with players running in for any rebound.
While a spirited Austria side performed better than expected, similar to Switzerland yesterday, both sides did not win the points their efforts deserved, due to a lack of clinical finishing. The same could be said for Croatia, who did not finish the chances they created, as complacency appeared to creep into their game, allowing Austria back into the game.

In comparison to ITV’s sycophantic coverage of Ronaldo, the BBC was not as focussed on Croatia and their comprehensive defeat of England, mentioning it only 6 times, while a significant part of their analysis focussed on the lack of a clinical striker in the Croatian attack, i.e. Eduardo and the performance of Modric, naturally as both were of interest to Premiership fans.

Austria 0 – 1 Croatia FT

It was never mean to be a simple match between Germany and Poland without controversy. Naturally Polish newspaper Super Express decided to ask Leo Beenhakker to bring back the severed heads of Germany manager Joachim Low and Captain Michael Ballack, disgustingly invoking memories of WWII, while tensions continued to run high as seven German fans were arrested in Klagenfurt after minor clashes. Having never defeated Germany in football, Poland would have been forgiven for scarcely embracing controversy in what is their first appearance at the European Championships.

Błaszczykowski, a highly rated right winger was injured for the Euros, but the Polish still have some fine players, notably Smolarek, and even beat Portugal in qualifying. The Germans have clinical finishers, with Klose and the new star of the Bundesliga Mario Gomez, supported by Ballack and Frings. The defenses of both sides are their Achilles’ heel, with pace lacking in either centre-back pairing, but with Arsenal hero Jens Lehmann and Celtic’s Boruc in goal (Fabianski started from the bench) there are two assured presences in goal, both of which will be under scrutiny with shots from long-range using the new Europass ball.

In the first minute Poland worked a cross into the box, with Mertesacker clattering into Lehmann, who punched weakly but the rebound was blazed over the bar. Soon after, Ballack cut open the Polish defence and Klose who was free elected to pass to Gomez, who appeared to be in an off-side position, rather than shoot, with the result the ball rolling agonizingly past the post. Podolski then made a strong run and appeared to dive, while he later made incomplete contact with a Fritz cross and hit it into the ground.

As Germany eased into the game, Lahm drove forward twisting and turning his defender, he was judged to have been fouled to win a free-kick, which went out for a corner. The Polish born striker Podolski slotted home into an empty net from a slided pass across the goal from Klose who was cleverly played in by reported Arsenal target Mario Gomez. This time the team benefited from Klose’s unselfish play, who distanced himself from his reputation as a poacher through these patterns of play.

Lobodzinski then forced an opening through tricky dribbling and fired a low shot which Lehmann grabbed with ease. At the other end, Ballack reached a loose ball first and won a free-kick from a Krzynowek tackle. Poland started to exert their influence on the game with a number of blocked shots from distance, while a lucky bounce from a tackle allowed Poland to run down the right wing and cut back to Zurawski who fired wide. In a similar fashion Fritz cut back to Gomez who scuffed his shot wide as the defender committed himself in the tackle and slid.

The game became scrappier with number of lucky bounces allowing Germany to reduce the pressure on their defence, as Poland came more into the game. The high Polish line, given their lack of pace seemed a poor tactical decision, but with only a one goal deficit at half time, they were still in with a good chance to peg back Germany, who play a deep defensive line to protect the slow Mertesacker, having leaked goals consistently in the years before the 2006 World Cup.

Roger Guerreiro, a Brazilian only naturalised as a Pole in April, came on at half time and forced a corner running on from a through pass, from which Lehmann, who kept 16 clean sheets in his last 18 games, elected to punch. The substitute’s influence increased as he played a fine pass which forced a corner. The end product was still lacking from a Polish perspective.

As they appeared to be fading, the Germans reminded Europe why they were seen as favourites as Ballack shot after a brilliant passing move but Boruc was equally capable, tipping the ball over. Podolski, capped off a fine night in his new found ‘false’ left midfield role, by lashing in the ball past Boruc, after Klose miskicked and the ball jumped up favourably. Having effectively won the game, Hitzelsperger came on for Gomez to add further defensive solidity. Yet, Poland fashioned a rare chance and finally tested Lehmann, after Guerreiro flashed in a dangerous cross, headed at the near post by Saganowski, with the new Stuttgart signing saving sharply, albeit knocking the ball into the danger area, which was quickly cleared by the defence.

Frings and Lahm in particular were impressive, undertaking their roles as the holding midfielder and marauding full-back respectively in an impressive fashion. Their ability to fashion chances from most attacks makes them perhaps the most impressive team in the tournament, with a more varied style of play in comparison to Portugal’s wing based play on Saturday perhaps more suited to face any opposition. With only 6 goals in 4 games, this does look like becoming a defensive-based tournament, especially with the ‘Group of Death’ normally tight, entertainment may be scarce.

Germany 2 – 0 Poland FT

Euro 2008: Matchday One Round Up

2008-06-18T10:58:00.000-07:00

After another unnecessary opening ceremony, which this time took place at the 42000 seater St. Jakob Park stadium, the hosts Switzerland took on the Czech Republic in the opening game, with an early mistake by the Czech allowing Alexander Frei to fire wide in the opening shot of the game.

The high tempo from both sides caused a few fouls such as Jankulovski knocking down Behrami with some danger for both defences. The Lazio winger Behrami certainly seemed eager to add to his suitors, having recently threatened to invoke the ‘Webster clause’, with some tricky dribbling and dangerous delivery, including a shot straight down the throat of Cech. With the Czechs eager to counter-attack and exploit the height of the 6ft 7.5 inch Jan Koller, the contrasting styles set up an intriguing contest, with a win in the first game creating a psychological boost.

A back-heeled pass by Frei to Inler allowed the defensive midfielder to drive forward and shoot, albeit straight the giant Cech, who had to be equally sharp when Frei turned his marker and got the shot away after a long ball and knock on beat the centre-backs too easily (21). A poor clearance by Arsenal’s Senderos created panic in the Swiss box, with the experienced Muller covering for his error-prone partner, stealing the ball away from Koller. The smart interplay between the technical Czech midfielders created various angles to play the high ball into the box to Koller.

When this appeared to break down, the Swiss broke forward quickly, with a rasping drive from Frei swerving, forcing Cech to punch, no doubt proof of the criticisms from various keepers of its disadvantage from a defensive perspective. While this may be the case, surely in terms of goals and entertainment there are only positives. In comparison to the number of long range goals in Germany 2006, we should expect a similar number proportionately in the rest of the tournament.

Switzerland suffered a huge blow on the stroke of half time, when star striker Frei appeared to jar his knee, causing doubts about the rest of his involvement in this tournament. The distraught Frei limped off, with the experienced Hakan Yakin, top scorer with 24 in the Swiss league replacing him. Having missed out in Euro 2004, after spitting at Steven Gerrard, injury struck this time, lowering already modest Swiss hopes reliant on their captain and inspiration Frei. One positive of BBC coverage was the lack of an update from the England camp, which at past tournaments shifted the focus from the match at hand. A negative was their ability to do the impossible: pair John Motson with an even more annoying Mark, whose most insightful piece of analysis was to sheepishly laugh at ‘Motty’ noticing ‘Platini scratching his chin’.

The lack of pace in the Czech attack helped Switzerland soak up any sustained pressure, with the whole side pressing and defending in numbers allowing the Czechs to pass amongst themselves but not build any dangerous attacking play. His set up suited Arsenal’s Senderos, who was rarely exposed with the team suiting his style of play. The substitute Yakin slotted in without much trouble, causing problems through his early touches, firing a free-kick narrowly over. The lack of movement from the all Koller caused Karel Bruckner to substitute the 54 goal striker for the more mobile Sverkos, who is equally capable aerially.

Libor Sionko won a free-kick, which the left-footed Jankulovski whipped in, with a number of the Czech players waiting at the far post, including the tricky Sionko. Immediately, the Swiss responded with fine interplay between Behrami and Lichtensteiner, with the resulting cross blazed over by Barnetta, who was marked closely throughout. In frustration, he clumsily tackled Plasil resulting in a free-kick, which Jankulovski curled over. Kobi Kuhn, recently at the centre of Swiss news concerning his ill wife, held his hands up in frustration as Hakan Yakin wasted a free header.

Sionko probed for any openings causing Senderos to clear after the former Ranger’s player slipped in a pass to the striker. Eventually, a simple headed ball back into the box beat the whole Swiss back four and Sverkos finished with his shin, with the keeper stranded. The Swiss responded with a scramble in the box eventually causing Vonlanthen to hit the bar when all that was required was to keep the shot low from the rebound after Cech saved well from Barnetta. In the dying seconds there was a large claim for handball, with Ujfalusi the offender but referee Roberto Rosetti waived away any claims.

Thus Czech Republic took the initial advantage in Group A, with Switzerland coach Kuhn set to come under further pressure from the media, with already the perception that given his age, perhaps he doesn’t have the drive needed to manage the host nation widespread.

Switzerland 0 – 1 Czech Republic FT

Having scored 42 goals, he set himself into Manchester United history winning both the league and the European Cup, yet Ronaldo fuelled intense speculation in the media, when declaring his dream to join Real Madrid, deciding to dismiss the love and admiration given to him. Another tricky winger Ricardo Quaresma, eternally in Ronaldo’s shadow also wants to win a move from Porto started from the bench.

With all the focus on the Portuguese winger, he is yet to set the big stage alight, having been outshone by Lionel Messi in the Champions League semi-final and having missed key penalties in the same run, there hasn’t been one memorable performance by the widely acknowledged world’s best player that comes to mind. Perhaps the great interest in this ‘saga’ influenced the questionable decision to appoint Gary Neville as an ITV pundit.

With the two sides meting in a more attractive encounter, there was one English presence in Colin Kazim-Richards obviously mentioned by ITV, with television outlets searching for any angle to attract larger audiences to their station. ‘It beats GCSE revision’ according to Clive Tyldsley, revealing their ‘chosen’ demographic, according to one forum member. With Turkey threatening on the counter, with a misunderstanding between Nihat and Tuncay broke down an attack, while Tuncay fell dramatically following another attack. Real Madrid defender Pepe headed the ball in the net from a corner but it was judged offside. Following this, a wonderful cross-field ball from Deco to Simao, who kept wide throughout, opened up the play, who delayed and a great block by Hamit Altintop stopped his cross. Simao then curled a deal ball over the bar, while his fellow wideman Ronaldo seemed sporadic in his involvement in influencing Portugal’s play, with his first dive 26 seconds in, followed by a misplaced pass, then he made a by fine dribble which then ended in a scuffed shot.

The end product of Portugal still appeared to be lacking as Ronaldo whipped in a brilliant free kick was stunningly saved by the Turkish keeper Demirel. Even Nuno Gomes’ predecessor Pauleta, their all-time top scorer, who surpassed the legendary Eusebio, never performed in the big tournaments, while the player himself seemed isolated from the midfield. Yet the poacher hit the post after the referee allowed the advantage with Simao feeling the full force of Besiktas’ Zan’s clumsy attempt at a clearance, who was rightly booked. Later Deco misjudged the weight of the pass needed for the final ball, after a fine Portugal attack, with the Euro 2004 finalists starting to turn the screw as Turkey were reduced to rare counter attacks.

A stunning goal from Pepe of Real Madrid stunned Turkey with fine interplay with Nuno Gomes and the Brazilian naturalised with the Euro 2004 hosts finished with aplomb. Once dismissed after a horrible debut for the Spanish champions in a 5-3 defeat to Sevilla, following an inflated €30 million transfer fee, Pepe grew into his role this year as Real retained the title. Gomes, anonymous in the first half, headed against the bar from a Ronaldo cross. While Portugal started to monopolise possession, Nihat still gave a reminder of his threat, intending to add to his successes with Villarreal this year, as he chased onto a ball from Altintop, but the powerful Pepe ran it out of play, while Ricardo snatched the high ball from Tuncay.

Asik headed wide late on, while Tuncay swung wildly at the ball in a great chance and missed his kick completely, adding to Turkey’s lack of attacking potency. As the game edged to a close, Nani was scythed down in a very poor challenge by Aurelio. Another beautiful goal killed off Turkey with a fine turn by Moutinho, once linked to Arsenal, and pass left a simple finish for Raul Meireles, who looked dangerous in his few minutes, although Ronaldo can be deemed lucky for not being penalised for a foul in the build up.

The only disappointment of the opening day was ITV’s obsession with Ronaldo, which bordered on the unhealthy, mentioning him so many times that an estimate of about 200 would not be exaggerating. It is clear to see that Portugal do not have the most potent attacking options in the tournament, despite what the excitable Clive Tyldesley may think. Their fine possession football may be aesthetically pleasing but their style doesn’t have the clinical finishing necessary to win the tournament, much like Arsenal in some aspects.

Portugal 2 – 0 Turkey FT

Champions League Preview - Round Of 16

2008-02-18T10:57:00.000-08:00

Lyon versus Manchester United

The French Champions take on their English counterparts in an intriguing encounter. The key battle will be between Benzema and Vidic and Ferdinand, and the Frenchman, who has the look of a young Ronaldo, has been tearing up the French league, leading the scoring charts. His pace, skill and strength were clearly evident on the defeat of Rangers at Ibrox, with Benzema scoring twice. At the other end, Manchester United will have practically a full squad available, with naturally the main threat coming from Cristiano Ronaldo and a on-form Rooney. The two attacking sides should yield a number of goals, with the previous meeting between the two causing a 4-3 score-line. Will Man United’s defensive strength overcome the Lyon attack?

Prediction: First leg: 2-1; Second leg: 3-1 (Man United progress)

Roma versus Real Madrid

Roma have been widely acclaimed for their free-flowing football, claiming it to be the closest modern reincarnation of Rinus Michel’s Ajax. Playing Totti in a false striker role and clever movement off the ball could cause problems to a back-line that appears to have struggled in recent games, despite the continued heroics of Casillas. The same issue plagues Roma, who will face the most clinical striker in Spain last year, a revitalised Raul and the flair of Robinho, and a defence comprising of Doni should not hold the clean sheet in either game. This appears to be the game for the purists and it should not fail to excite.

Prediction: First leg: 2-2; Second leg: 1-0 (Real Madrid progress)

Celtic versus Barcelona

Celtic Park is a mysterious place. The reigning European champions have come here and lost. The English Champions have lost there too. The crowd has such a force on the players that even the greats can freeze upon encountering such noise. The fantastic four of Barcelona has largely failed as a nickname by the fans, with perhaps only Messi performing to the heights expected. The introduction of two precocious youngsters in Bojan Krkic and Giovani Dos Santos has highlighted a bright future. The return of Yaya Toure from the African Cup of Nations has given defensive solidity. Yet the side have come to rely on Messi and a lack of variety in their play could prove costly.

Prediction: First leg: 1-0; Second leg: 3-0 (Barcelona progress)

Liverpool versus Inter Milan

Letting Havant and Waterlooville lead twice in the FA Cup? Losing to Barnsley at Anfield in the very competition? This side of Liverpool is very rarely seen. Off the field matters concerning ownership and managerial distress has caused a terrible run of form. Contrast that to the ultra-consistent Inter Milan. Still unbeaten in the league, crippled by injury, the strength of the side is clearly evident. What Massimo Moratti wanted is finally coming to place. The influential Ibrahimovic returns to the scene of a defeat two years ago with Juve, and will be seeking revenge. But Liverpool is a different creature in European competition. This now is their only chance of a trophy against a side prone to collapsing at vital moments in a season, but change is common in football as Inter won the Scudetto for the first time since 1989, can they win a European Cup since the days of Sandro Mazzola?

Prediction: First leg: 2-2; Second leg: 2-0 (Inter Milan progress)

Arsenal versus AC Milan

A match billed as the new generation against the old guard. The Milanese have been revived by the youthful exuberance of one Alexandre Pato. While both sides have been debilitated by injuries, something close to their full sides will encounter one another. The midfield tussles between Flamini and Fabregas against the cunning of Pirlo and aggression of Gattuso. The pace of the game will be vital, with a high tempo favouring the Gunners, yet if the Rossoneri take charge as they did last year in the semi-final, few teams can cope with such an attacking force. And we have not even mentioned Kaka yet.

Prediction: First leg: 2-1; Second leg: 0-0 (Arsenal progress)

Olympiakos versus Chelsea

Arguably the most one-sided tie of the round, with an Olympiakos side that only this year managed to win away after 31 attempts, with the reward being a tie with the Blues. Chelsea’s strength in depth will allow them to prevail with relative ease. The former Premiership presence in the Greek side is from Lua-Lua. With Terry and Lampard back in the side, a win should be a formality on paper, yet the often laborious style of Chelsea will not make this an aesthetically pleasing game despite the talent on offer.

Prediction: First leg: 1-2; Second leg: 3-0 (Chelsea progress)

Fenerbahçe versus Sevilla

The Turkish side caused the shocks of the first round of group games, in dominating Inter, resulting in a 1-0 score-line, that was not a true reflection of what took place. Led by Brazilian legend Zico, they play with a sense of flair embodied in the Brazilian side of the 80s. Led by Japan’s Brazil-born playmaker Alex, and the strongest (but not always accurate) left foot in the modern game in Roberto Carlos, this promises to be a game of aggressive, attacking football. Sevilla, may have lost Juande Ramos, but have the clinical, if volatile Fabiano, and on of the best right wing combinations in Europe in Navas and Alves. A side rejoined by its Africans and with the pace and industry of Capel on the right will want to make up for their mediocre league position. This could prove to be a classic game.

Prediction: First leg: 3-1; Second leg: 3-0 (Sevilla progress)

Schalke 04 versus Porto FC

The least mentioned game in the whole round sees Mirko Slomka’s side take on Porto in an intriguing clash, with the attacking prowess of Kuranyi up front and Pander and Rafinha providing an attacking outlet down the flanks. A side which has always challenged for titles but rarely succeeded will face the most successful Portuguese side, in terms of titles won. Naturally with the threat of Quaresma, more influential will be the game of Lucho Gonzalez, and the finishing of Lisandro Lopez. The stronger defence of Porto should prevail but this Schalke could prove to be a strong underdog.

Prediction: First leg: 1-1; Second leg: 1-1 (Porto progress on penalties)

A. Song Of Praise

2008-02-18T10:56:00.000-08:00

“As I've said before... Song Billong's in a Job Centre”

November 29th 2006

“Alex Song to score 12 and named best player of the tournament but I want Egypt to capitulate utterly and bow down at Song's feet like he is a manifestation of Ra.”

February 9th 2008

How times change. The former quote occurred at half-time on one Internet forum during the defeat at Fulham in a season of mediocrity which the Cameroonian embodied in the eyes of several fans. While Song did not live up to the expectations of one Gooner in the ACON final, having hobbled off injured, he did however deserve the praise lavished upon him throughout the tournament, since he entered the fray at half-time, 3-0 down against the side who was to defeat his country once more to secure a consecutive Cup victory.

It was always true that Song had promise, with several European giants interested in him, after his exploits with Bastia, where he displayed raw talent, aggression, strength, technique and vision for a pass. Having signed permanently after a loan, Song made his mark in the Champions league game against Thun and made a few appearances throughout the season, including near the end of the season in the build up to the Champion’s league performance. Yet by then, the youngster had been used to criticism from his own fans, of which the majority had made a snap judgement condemning him to the level of Igor Stepanovs, analysing his performance on the basis of screaming ‘blue murder’ at any mistake. His ‘lazy’ facial expression may have given fresh material to those obsessed with aesthetics, as Senderos among others has discovered. Many used the loan to Charlton as a sign to confirm that Wenger had realised what they had claimed to see since his first appearance for the club. Once again Arsene proved them wrong as Rigobert’s nephew played a pivotal role in the side, displaying his technique in less pressured circumstances, and great tenacity, marking Wayne Rooney out of the game on one occasion.

Ultimately, he was unable to prevent Charlton’s downfall, yet he had portrayed a plethora of abilities, perhaps changing the view of some cynics, but question marks remained over his ability to survive at the top level. This season, the answer came with a resounding overall performance in the Carling Cup. Having scored his first (very odd) goal against Liverpool, the previous year, this year he caused the more optimistic among pundits to liken his playmaking qualities from the back to that on one Franz Beckenbauer. A perfectly weighted through-ball to Eduardo at Ewood Park highlighted this aspect of his game, along with the composure to attempt a back-header with Santa Cruz lurking.

Versatility is a key reason of his importance to the Arsenal squad, playing in his preferred position against Steaua Bucharest, making key tackles and sharp passes, and a defensive solidity with aggression rather than the more reactive Gilberto. Julien Laurens of Le Parisien compared him to Michael Essien, also a former player of Bastia. Having changed Cameroon’s fortunes adding a creative edge to a side full of brawn, he has now introduced himself to the international stage, having been named in the Best XI in the tournament. Arsenal fans will now eagerly await his return from injury as we now fight on two fronts, with a reliable replacement if another defensive crisis occurs.

With the mental strength to succeed at a top club, and the technique, physique to match, Alexandre Song is here to stay. Trust this precocious youngster to fight for a claim in the first XI next season.

Strength In Adversity...

2008-02-18T10:54:00.000-08:00

There are several types of football fans. The wannabe manager, the statistician, the severely optimistic, the completely opposite of that, and the ones almost slipping off the edge of their seat through uncontrollable tension, even when the score is 6-0 in favour of your side and you’re playing Derby at home. Then you have your thugs, the ones chanting unintelligible songs, that you know comprise of topics that are best left unspoken. Then there are ones who are unable to pronounce a simple foreign name, and it’s sad to see 55,000 Arsenal fans chant Sagna’s name erroneously every weekend.

And one common flaw in every breed of football fan is the judging of a player on first impressions and deciding his capability on that very instance, dismissing factors, such as the importance of the game, the integration with the team, the mentality of the player and communication with the bench and his fellow players, let alone the referee. The greatest players are those who stand up to the negativity, appearing to be a new creature to those blinded by the first impression, when in truth they are fully expressing themselves on the pitch. This can be said of several Arsenal players, who are one point or other along their Gunners’ career, were appearing to leave for mediocrity. Yet having persisted, Adebayor, Flamini, Almunia, Senderos and more recently Song now form vital pieces of the Arsenal squad.

“You know what the fellow said: In Italy for 30 years under the Borgias, they had warfare, terror, murder and bloodshed, but they produced Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci and the Renaissance. In Switzerland they had brotherly love - they had 500 years of democracy and peace, and what did that produce? The cuckoo clock.”

Orson Welles (The Third Man 1949)

This is quote is correct even when using it as an analogy to the modern game. The corruption scandal in Italy ruined the reputation of several officials and players, yet the Azzurri won the most recent World Cup and a team debilitated by the subsequent punishments, in AC Milan, won the Champions League the following year. It is true, adversity breeds success. It may be ironic to now mention that a Swiss footballer has found success in adversity when his fellow countrymen did not experience either, but Senderos would beg to differ.

When Pires was mentioned for his duckesque running style, it was not the intention of this label to be derogatory to our former French genius, but when a certain Tony Adams had the weight of a term such as ‘Donkey’ thrown on his back, even the dim-witted realised was not with the same warmth. And having spent his club career trying to disassociate himself with this ‘nickname’, having won several trophies and developed into a brilliant captain and defender, this esteemed mantle was passed onto Philippe Senderos, who also coincidently inherited the no. 6 shirt.

A much more eloquent speaker than from whom he inherited the shirt, fluent in six languages and more promising than our former captain in his youth, he too was cursed from the stands for his running style and occasional slips. Rather than choosing to focus on his defensive attributes, so clearly portrayed in the record-breaking Champions League run and his recent appearances in the side, the so called ‘haters’ will pick on appearance and other inconsequential topics. The Swiss captain has provided balance in centre defence, complimenting Gallas well, with Toure perhaps too similar to the Arsenal captain. He appeared to regress last season, but once more has shown he only needs a run of games to blossom to his full potential. Yes, twice when he had the ball, he found Carrick, but else what could he do from a substitute point, with the team 3-0 down and with a man less?

Adecantscore, Adebarndoor…who you ask? Adebayor, that’s who. These are just some of the subtle insults by those first unimpressed with Kanu reincarnate, but a better all round footballer with much greater goal threat and capable of the outrageous, in a similar fashion to his idol, still will not deter Adebayor from progressing. Hung up to dry at Monaco, in a light portraying him to be the Joey Barton of Ligue 1, then suspended from the Togo national team for sticking to his principles about unpaid bonuses promised to the side. And more recently, a little tiff with Bendtner, it is true; Adebayor has been in the spotlight of controversy on many occasions, but even after our North London Rivals (probably) contemplated organising a open-top bus parade for a landmark in their insignificant history, Adebayor still scored goals.

Having worked tremendously hard on his finishing (with Boro Primorac after training), runs, heading, and fitness aspects of his game, he has become one of the feared strikers on the continent, a label usually true, when Madrid and their propaganda agency in Marca begin to formulate stories. Yet, there was a lack of support because obviously Henry played at a similar level when he first joined the club, and the short memories of supporters did nothing to help the Togolese attacker even after scoring on his debut. Yet he has shown every aspect of what a footballer should compromise. Drogba played in Ligue 2 at a similar age, look where he has ended up. Think what Adebayor can become. His desire to change the game against United was strong, but channelled into the wrong ideas, in diving for a penalty. He will be vital against Milan.

As his Togolese team-mate progresses, Flamini too has shown the typical mental strength to progress from being close to leaving to displacing the current Brazil captain. Instantly compared with the then current captain Vieira upon his arrival from Marseille, Flamini always had the capacity to succeed, with good technique, tenacity and the urge to win at all costs. Having performing a brilliant job at full-back during the Champion’s league run, he was ruled out by injury. This blow compounded with a lack of appearances in his regular position caused our ‘Gattuso’ to question his future at Arsenal. It is not clear what caused the improvement in his game, but a new-found sense of calmness on the ball and brilliant positioning to allow him to express himself through his technique has resulted in one of the best pass completion percentages in the league, and more importantly a starting berth. Now, all there is to do is to sign a new contract, and that small matter of the goings-on on the football pitch. His notable action was to stop Nani showboating but the importance of his being fit is overall more important.

His worst time on the football pitch: the score read ‘Arsenal 2 Manchester United 4’ at Highbury, and ended his original run as first-choice ’keeper after displaying a lack of calmness and a tendency to rush out that added weight to John O’Shea’s ‘Mr. Versatile’ tag. Having fully adapted to the country and familiarised himself with his team-mates, Almunia is in the form of his life, with intense competition for Lehmann, neither keeper has a chance to relax. A requirement of our goalkeepers to be technically adept, Almunia is calmer in interceptions and plays as a sweeper when the defence breaks down. Having improved his distribution, he is now vital to the side’s footballing performance. And in light of Lehmann’s performance, in the best of a woeful bunch, the German once more proved his strong mentality. Almunia has now had to endure controversy about becoming a British citizen and representing this country, yet it has not affected his performances for the team.

In particular, Traore and Hoyte have let down Wenger, who has such faith in their ability, and now they must show the capacity to succeed as has been displayed at various points of their Arsenal careers by the aforementioned team-mates. These players are examples of a winning mentality that was missing at Old Trafford, with no one stepping up to the more urgent tempo. Perhaps, it was because of the more important tie on Wednesday but our downfall was clear upon looking at the full-back positions, with neither possessing a player of positional sense, calm and fighting character (Eboue chose to take that literally), and covering the centre-backs was apparently not on their agenda, who too were poor.

But as recent history shows, the FA Cup run has little effect on who is crowned as Premiership champions. Let us congratulate Manchester United and look forward to the next few games, hoping our injury situation improves somewhat. The side has been beaten comprehensively in every one of our defeats this season. There has always been a reaction, which on this case will be evident on Wednesday. What response we get will reflect on the character of the side.

A Test Of Character...

2008-01-26T02:49:00.000-08:00

The mental strength of this side will be evident in the next few matches. This comprehensive defeat has been amusingly glorified by Tottenham, through the immediate release of a commemorative DVD and even a mug, which fittingly is symbolic of Levy and their marketing department, once more portraying our rivals in a true light.

Never has one seen the whole team play so poorly, and it was seen in Wenger’s post-match interview, where his reluctance to accept Spurs’ one, recent day of glory (excluding the defeats of Chelsea and West Ham previously, both of which were followed by a DVD release), embodied the acknowledgement of a huge tactical error. The balance of the side was incorrect, and those involved in errors leading up to the Tottenham goals, and the “butting” incident, as it was so subtly described in the tabloids, must be focused on the Newcastle game, with both sides looking for instant responses, with Kevin-‘I’ll love it if we beat them’-Keegan, the inspiration for our fourth round rivals. The naivety mentioned by Wenger was evident, with several players showing a lack of positional sense and an inability to track back. The latter statement does not only relate to the youngsters, but the most experienced member of the squad in Gilberto. The demise of our Brazilian has been painful to see, and has to do with the eradication of the zone which he normally patrols, with Gallas and Toure pushing up, due to the energy and excellent tackling of Flamini, whose absence from the team does not cause a change in tactics such as a deeper defensive line, allowing a more effective defensive midfielder.

Wenger’s experiment with Diaby forces him to improve his left foot, or so he thought. Our left side was beaten by this tactical manoeuvre, with Diaby not forced inside, where when he did was beaten by the compact opposition midfield. The lack of positional sense of Walcott and Bendtner as well as their lack of movement nullified the more creative players, and caused a block of the final third, with Spurs countering to great effect. Traore has been poor defensively in the majority of his starts, with the exception being Newcastle in the Carling Cup. He will improve, the raw technique is present, and only experience is needed, as recently he seems more like Djimi than Armand. Denilson is yet to find a role in this Arsenal side, touted as an in-between of Rosicky and Gilberto, yet this lack of clarity in either department is affecting his ability to orchestrate some games.

The only Arsenal player to leave the match with footballing credit was Adebayor, yet even this was tempered by his outburst with Bendtner. Both must reconcile to some extent, yet it seems clear that the Togo striker is easily the better player and perhaps the one the other players favour over the seemingly arrogant Bendtner (an image his father only enhances, although the player does not seem to be in the wrong here). Adebayor must be internally punished, but not to the demise of team spirit. His determination to fight (literally in one instance) for the cause, caused a stir in the heart of many arsenal fans, on many instances running stride for stride as Spurs counter-attacked, while his bemused team-mates stood watching after another failed attack. With Flamini back in the side along with Clichy and Senderos, there will be a greater defensive stability, but as seen recently, Cesc plays deeper to compensate for the lack of pace on Senderos’ part. While the squad has depth, it does not have balance, affecting the attacking performance, but credit on our part, the team has been very clinical this season.

Flamini recently claimed that the camp is united, and he epitomises the character needed to be shown by the rest of the squad. From on the verge of an exit, to displacing a World Cup winner and playing the best football of his career, he has shown that a new deal is a priority for the club. The more passive characters in the dressing room, who tend to dwell on such results, such as Walcott, who has also suffered from the ‘English’ hype and pressure, and others such as Alex Hleb, who has only recently shown his true self will be tested to forget this defeat and remember it was a fourth priority competition, used predominantly for the development of youngsters and exposing them to the harshness of top-level cup football. Since the introduction of a sports psychologist in February 2006, it is clear Wenger trusts the players’ ability but wants an improvement from the psychological perspective. It appears Wenger too believes actions speak louder than words, having cancelled the weekly press conference; the players will too want to make a strong response. Wenger always protects his players from criticism and on many occasions this trust in them can be affected, with players not giving all their focus, playing in a lax manner. Yet, this defeat will be forgotten and the team will give a response owed to the fans (especially the man in the Rocastle shirt at the end) and the manager.

We have seen the response of Arsenal in the aftermath of the Manchester United game in October 2004 as Wayne Rooney attempted to imitate ‘Swan Lake’, and it was not pleasing, but this side is at the beginning of its cycle. In our previous two defeats this season, both have been comprehensive, and also followed by a positive response. We have leaders in this side, both footballing and personality-wise. It is time them to step.

The Formation Issue

2007-12-28T11:32:00.001-08:00

There is no crisis at Arsenal. Having been predicted to drop out of the top four in the summer, there is no question that any rational Arsenal fan, would have grabbed our current league position with two hands, having followed two seasons of toying with Tottenham in fourth place mediocrity. Yet, as fatigue, injuries amongst other things set in; it is our formation that is not bringing the best performances out of the team, not shown by our recent collection of league points this winter.
This defensive formation, while it suited us last year, as it gave Cesc physical support in the midfield to counter the rougher sides, he rarely made the runs he does this year, and Hleb there inhibits the space in which he can operate as does the aggressive Flamini who closes down so early Cesc isn't in any position to play the pass; the 4-5-1 worked with Gilberto last year, who was passive in his role. Furthermore Rosicky has a tendency to cut in, and while this is typical of a fluid style, it further congests the midfield. Eboue on the opposite flank has shown a lack of spontaneity in his play, consistently looking for the one-two instead of opening his mind into better options. Instead, two strikers pressure the opposition defence to be wary all the time, and give more freedom to the midfield. It also spatially covers the most ground on the pitch, rendering it most effective.

In a 4-4-2 Adebayor can run the channels and pull out wide as his strike partner, normally Van Persie, would stay central or move to the right flank. If one comes short, the other will hang on the shoulder of the last defender in a bid to split the central defensive pairing. Therefore it would make sense in a 4-5-1 that the lone striker stays central, and if not directly involved in the play, can affect the opposition with his mere presence. At Portsmouth, Adebayor pulled wide (in an attempt to allow midfield runners, who surprisingly had poor movement), and on many occasions inadvertently blocked Clichy’s forward run, who then was forced to play it back (similar to this was Eboue running directly ahead of Sagna’s run, making his intentions crystal clear and thus ending the attack). On other occasions, he received the ball short, when pulling away to the far post was the better option. When pulling wide was the correct option, the wrong man made the forward run into space, and this can be put down to pure luck as Fabregas’ touch let him down. We created two chances in the final few minutes with two strikers on the pitch, both of which should have led to goals, but instead led to injury to the captain and then a bewildered look from our Czech playmaker.

At the beginning of the season, Arsenal were frustrated at home by Fulham, until Bendtner came on late in the game, and provided a greater attacking presence, coupled with Van Persie and Hleb, who won the game right at the death. Therefore this is not a criticism of any Arsenal striker but more so of the formation employed by Wenger, a great tactician perhaps slightly flawed by his reluctance to change formation. Our game is based on intuition, fitness and concentration in manipulating the ball, and if influential players are off form, then it reflects on the whole performance, especially in a formation not bringing out the best in the team as a whole. There are many examples of world-class strikers struggling as a lone forward, with Torres in his later years at Atletico, being criticised for his contribution, when his lack of supply formed statistics shaped against his talent. Drogba only blossomed at Chelsea when played with a partner, and with Rooney shown to be lacking in discipline when leading the line alone, this point shows a clear pattern.

Credit must be given to Portsmouth; they gave a master-class into defending against Arsenal. They squeezed the midfield, reducing our fluency, and sat back, when the ball was on the flanks. It would have been a great escape, as Benjani nearly stole a goal, yet fortunately his touch was too heavy past Almunia, allowing the impressive Clichy to clear away. It occurred because Toure abandoned his position and tried to play in midfield and add urgency to our game, but only succeeded in further congesting the area. Furthermore our last two winners in the Premiership have come as a result of poor defending from the opposition. Put Cech’s error down to pure luck (unless it is the beginning of an unthinkable dip in form) and Spurs, well it was bound to happen. Both corners taken by Fabregas were in the area where the keeper normally collects as shown by James on many occasions on Boxing Day, yet inept Spurs’ defending and an uncharacteristic gaffe from a world class keeper allowed us to win both games.

Earlier in the season, Wenger admitted his error in playing the 4-5-1 against Manchester United, yet he continues to adopt this formation. Possession of the ball is vial in Arsenal’s game and the 4-5-1 helps this along with coping with a physical threat, yet it reduces our attacking potential in the final third, although by no means is it a defensive formation. As it reduces attacking options, i.e. bodies (in the optimum position) to pass to, the players have limited options and on many occasions have played the wrong option, or have been unable to execute the correct one (see Adebayor’s attempted slide-rule pass to Toure at Anfield). This compounds frustration in the players. On the other hand, it can highlight the efficiency of some of our play, in taking one chance out of a few, though not at Fratton Park.

The statistics however, do not lie. We have played the 4-5-1 in 15 games of a possible 28 and have scored a disappointingly low 9 goals, with a measly 0.6 goals scored per game. In contrast, we have scored a huge 31 goals in the 13 games that we played 4-42. This gives a ratio of 2.38 goals per game. This includes every fixture we have played this season, and so shows the 4-4-2’s played excluding Van Persie (although he is hugely important in our game, it shows that we have played a 4-4-2 based on the opposition and not entirely on the personnel available) too, a clear example of which is the 7-0 demolition of Slavia Prague, with Adebayor and Walcott, as the forward pairing. As pure statistics, these do not look at injuries or suspensions, form (as clearly the win over Slavia had the whole team on form, while the Middlesbrough game away had a depleted side). Nor do they look at the quality of the opposition.

Therefore, while this is one of many articles on our minute drop in form, all show that a return to 4-4-2 is needed, as are some fresh legs through rotation. Yet with extremely busy period coming up, rest for some of our first team stars looks like a rare prospect. Also, having gained 7 points in our last three games, when two are tough London derbies and the other against a side who have now only let in one goal in their last five premiership home games, we appear to have come through well, without playing too well (the mark of strong team spirit and belief). The comparison to Man Utd is not needed, they are the champions, have spent close to £100 million in the summer, and have potentially the best player in the world in Ronaldo.

We are in the early stages of developing the third generation under Wenger. If we can continue to achieve results as we have done so far and as the players gain even more experience, we can become something special. This is just the beginning. Let us hope the team perform at Everton tomorrow (and hopefully play in a 4-4-2!).

The 20 Greatest Defeats Of All Time (No. 5-1)

2007-12-28T11:29:00.000-08:00

And here it is… the top five defeats in the history of football. And what better place for all of these to occur on the biggest stage there is: the World Cup. Controversy, huge upsets and national pride being battered…

Chile 2-0 Italy 1962 World Cup Group 2
‘Good evening. The game you are about to see is the most stupid, appalling, disgusting and disgraceful exhibition of football, possibly in the history of the game’. These were the words used to introduce the Battle of Santiago by BBC presenter David Coleman. Tensions ran high due to two Italian journalists (Antonio Ghiredelli and Corrado Pizzinelli – and both had to leave the country before the game) describing earthquake-stricken Chile in a deriding manner. The first foul came eight seconds after kick-off. The first sending off came eight minutes later. Next came a kick in the neck, soon followed by a broken nose. More scuffles, spitting occurred and the police had to repeatedly intervene during the came, such as escorting Giorgio Ferrini off the pitch after eight minutes. Late goals by Ramirez and Toro sealed Chile’s revenge against the Italians.

Argentina 2-1 England 1986 World Cup Quarter Final
Mention this defeat to any Englishman and it is a guarantee that Diego Maradona will be the first words out of his mouth. Forget the controversy from the ‘Hand of God’ goal or the individual excellence of the dribble (both were recently imitated by Leo Messi, one of the endless line of heirs to the legend himself). The background behind the defeat surrounding the dispute over the Falklands islands in 1982 between the two countries in question. The most recent invasion of British territory caused a strong rivalry that affected the viewpoints of the public in both countries. Thus Maradona claimed ‘Whoever robs a thief gets a 100-year pardon’, a popular Spanish saying, which is seen as a justification by Maradona as a retaliation against the British for the war four years previous.

Hungary 2- 3 West Germany 1954 World Cup Final
‘Das Wunder von Bern’. The Miracle of Bern saw the Germans pitted against the ‘Mighty Magyars’. Unbeaten in their previous 32 games, lead by a strike-force of Puskas and Hidegkuti, they had previously defeated England at Wembley 6-3, becoming the first non-UK team to do so at the famous stadium. They won 7-1 in the return game in Budapest. Legendary coach Josef Herberger was famous for conjuring up phrases such as ‘The ball is round and the game lasts for 90 minutes’, played his reserves that lost 8-3 in the first round. The Hungarians raced into a two goal lead in the first 8 minutes, through the unfit Puskas and Czibor. The Germans, playing with Adidas’s revolutionary removable studs, had an advantage in the ‘Fritz Walter’ (rainy) weather, named after their star player, whose best performances came ironically against the literary idea of pathetic fallacy. A film was released almost 50 years later in 2003, to commemorate the victory and it signifying the change in German society purging it from the sin of the Nazi regime. Helmut Rahn, featured in the film named: ‘Das Wunder von Bern’, scored twice in the final, and the winner caused Herbert Zimmermann to scream ‘Tor! Tor! Tor! Tor!’ followed by an eight second gap, before the celebrations continued.

Brazil 1-2 Uruguay 1950 World Cup Final
Another day… it was earlier in history but equally important in shaping another country’s mentality through football. Having taken victory for granted, after seeing the team, led by Ademir, an outstanding forward, defeat rivals, who adopted the WM formation, they were surprised when Uruguay appeared in the final with an attacking mentality and a formation that was equal to Brazil’s attacking play. The Europeans, were awestruck by Brazil, and before letting in the first goal so were Uruguay, but words from their captain inspired the team to victory. The goal by Ghiggia in the 79th minute, after shooting at the near post, rather than crossing as he did for his team’s first goal, caught out Barbosa, who dived too late. ‘The Fateful Goal’ silenced the 199,954 Brazilians in the Maracanã. It ruined celebrations, prepared, such as the golden medals with the players’ names on it, the speech in Portuguese Jules Rimet had prepared and amongst other things, it prompted a thorough post mortem into the defeat.

Germany 2-1 Holland 1974 World Cup Final
Possibly the greatest team to never win the World Cup, the Dutch raced into an early lead with a Neeskens penalty, but rather than adding to their lead, played a taunting style of possession football, perhaps in retaliation to Nazi oppressors in the second world war to which their opponents on the day had no relation to. This angered the Germans, who came back as the first half progressed, perhaps because Cruyff, in an attempt to find space and be released from Berti Vogts shackles, played too deep and lost his influence upon proceedings. The game was also a tale of two penalties, both given by the English referee Taylor, the first, a correct one, the second was given after simulation by Holzenbein, perhaps influenced by Beckenbauer’s words to Taylor (perhaps in another reference to the war): ‘You are an Englishman’. The Dutch played their usual unique style in the second half but could break down a rearguard action lead by ‘Der Kaiser’ Beckenbauer, leaving July 7th 1974 as the day when every Dutchman remembers where there were, mourning the ‘Lost Final’.

The 20 Greatest Defeats Of All Time (No. 10-6)

2007-12-28T11:28:00.000-08:00

Enter the top ten defeats of all time. Naturally many matches are remembered for incidents occurring of and on the pitch, perhaps with violent clashes, footballing master classes and shifts in power concerning who rules the footballing world.

France (4) 3-3 (5) West Germany 1982 World Cup Semi- Final
An epic football match marred by Harold Schumacher’s tendency to rush out to take out man or ball, in a mindset where the end justifies the means, as it did for the Germans. The match was level between the two sides with Littbarski rifling in a shot and a Platini penalty to equalise. Then Schumacher took out substitute Battiston (whose attempted shot went just wide), knocking him unconscious and leaving him with two less teeth. Later when Platini went for a header, when Schumacher came to claim the ball; Platini was left clutching his shoulder. Tresor scored with a hooked finish for France, followed by a thunderbolt from Giresse, Rummenigge pulled one back, before Fischer sent the match to penalties – a first in the World Cup. Schumacher made the headlines, by moving early off his line (a ploy not noticed by the officials) and saving twice from Six and then Bossis. The great French team of Platini and Tigana could not progress ‘because the officials did not do their job’ as the BBC commentator put it.

Real 0 -5 Barcelona 1973 Primera Division
After being voted out of the captaincy at Ajax, Cruyff left for a club that too was valued on playing beautiful football. In this match he crossed superbly twice to result in goals, and scored a gorgeous goal. Receiving the ball in the edge of the area from the left he burst forward to the left past the despairing lunge of a Real defender, running towards another defender, he quickly shifted the ball onto his right then again onto his left, always shielding the ball from the defender. To top off a superb performance, he finished with aplomb, blasting the ball through the keeper’s legs. To this day Cruyff and his Barcelona team-mates hold the record for Real’s heaviest defeat in the Bernabeu in an El Clasico, an astonishing achievement.

Arsenal 4-5 Man Utd 1958 Old Division One
The Busby babes came to North London, with a brand of exciting attacking, youthful football. They raced up a 0-3 lead in the first half, and the match seemed to be as good as over. Yet in the space of three minutes The Gunners came racing back and clawed back to a 3-3 score-line. The reputation of the Manchester United side came through, showing mental strength to score twice through the devastating Denis Viollet and Tommy Taylor to an unreachable 3-5 lead. Yet in the dying minutes The Gunners pulled a goal back, leaving a tense finish in which Vic Groves almost equalised. A few days later, the Red Devils flew out to Belgrade to meet Red Star in the European Cup. After a victory, their plane stopped to refuel in Munich. Therefore the game at Arsenal’s historical Highbury was to be the last arena where the famous ‘Busby Babes’ strutted their stuff in England.

England 3-6 Hungary 1953 International Friendly
The first defeat at Wembley by a team outside of the British Isles broke an undefeated streak since 1901 against such teams. Finally showed how different styles had evolved in contrast to the stereotypical gung-ho British football and it was no fluke. The Hungarians played a pass and move style, with a strike-force of ‘that fat little chap’ (The England player who referred to the Hungarian legend would later live to regret his words) Ferenc Puskas and Nandor Hidegkuti, who played in a revolutionary half-striker role, ghosting between the lines of midfield and attack, impossible to pick up. ‘The Mighty Magyars’ were seen to many as the influence to Rinus Michel’s ‘Total Football’ concept with their fluid formation and interchange of positions. The return game in 1954 was even more one-sided with Hungary annihilating England 7-1.

Real 11-4 Barcelona 1943 Kings Cup Semi Final
The words Generalissimo or Franco will crop up in remembrance of this semi-final. 3-0 up from the first leg, the Catalans were favourites to meet Bilbao in the final. Yet before the start of the second leg, they were paid a visit by the director of state security, who emphasized the unpatriotic Catalans were only living in Spain on behalf of the generous Franco. Therefore they were forced to throw the match, and even with ten men at half time, it is believed that only such a reason would cause such a loss. The conspiracy theorists continue to look to this dressing room visit. Real still managed to lose the final to Bilbao, after all of their favourite dictator’s help against their arch-rivals.

The 20 Greatest Defeats Of All Time (No. 15-11)

2007-12-28T11:26:00.000-08:00

Continuing on from yesterday, here is the next five, which were influenced by pieces of magic, the event and social and moral talking points.

Real Madrid 0-1 Ajax 1973 European Cup Semi-final second leg
According to David Winner, author of ‘Brilliant Orange’ the greatest moment of Ajax’s ‘Golden Age’ was not a goal or a great save. It was a simple piece of juggling by a player who had idolised the legends which had graced the turf of the Bernabeu before him. Gerrie Muhren had the 110,000 fans applauding, rather than the customary white handkerchiefs away teams were used to. It was said to be the moment Ajax took over from Real Madrid as the true Kings of Europe. Having already won the two previous European cups, Ajax strolled to their third successive European Cup victory, having raised the Bernabeu to applaud the brilliance of totaalvoetbal.

Italy 3-2 Brazil 1982 World Cup Second Round
This was truly an occasion was for a phoenix to rise from the flames. His name blackened from a betting scandal and his critics rounding on the poor performances of his and the national’s teams poor ‘aimless’ play. They reached the second round on the back of three draws to meet a Brazilian side that truly brought back beautiful football. Falcao, Zico and Socrates, formed a midfield of vision technique and unlimited flair. Yet it was Rossi who struck first blood, ghosting in to score a free header. John Motson said the Brazilian school of footballing philosophy shows ‘how to play when you’re behind’. He was proved right when an awesome turn by Zico allowed him to release Socrates with a threaded pass. Yet Rossi replied with a brace, and even with a Falcao thunderbolt, Italy prevailed with Dino Zoff making crucial saves. ‘Thankfully skill will still prevail even though teams try to destroy it’. In hindsight, Motson’s words truly marked the ‘death of joga bonito’ as one internet forum member put it. Brazil’s light, glowing football did not prevail and it was loss for football in the long run.

Arsenal 2-1 Sheffield United 1999 Premier League
The unwritten rule can have a strong influence and it did until the English FA decided to ignore it from this previous season and onwards. Kelly was putting a ball out, so that his team-mate could receive treatment, or rather so that Bergkamp didn’t score. The resulting throw-in, was taken by Parlour to the Sheffield United players, but was intercepted by Kanu, who crossed for Overmars to slot home. The fact that giving the ball back is seen as an unwritten rule, no-one cannot be sure if all 22 players are playing to the same rule! The match was followed by a generous offer by Arsenal to replay the match, which Steve Bruce ‘expected’, yet in truth he had no right to. Arsenal won the return match 2-1, with no controversy.

Peru 0-6 Argentina – 1978 World Cup Second Round
The situation: Argentina needed to win by more than four goals to reach the final. Why? Brazil’s superior goal difference was blocking their path to World Cup glory. The conspiracy theory: The game was fixed. The Peruvian keeper had only let in 6 goals in his previous five games; He had Argentinean nationality too. Argentina had only scored 6 in their previous games; the exact margin they won this game by. Argentina progressed to the final where they used stalling tactics to unnerve the Dutch team in Estadio Buenos Aires, a cauldron of blue and white. The greatest mystery of all: they were winners of the FIFA Fair Play Award.

Germany 2-1 Holland 1990 World Cup Round of 16
After the second World War, the Dutch had moved away from it and had rebuilt. A few generations later, books were released about concentration camps, and trials were held for war crimes. Thus the new youth, which included the footballers, coached by Cruyff, in van Basten, Gullit and Rikjaard saw Germany as the enemy. This boiled over onto the pitch, with Rikjaard spitting at Rudi Voller, and this settled the match. Another aspect to the rivalry was the setting. Stadio Giuseppe Meazza. The AC Milan team of the nineties had a Dutch spine, and in contrast the Inter team, contained a number of Germans. Thus the match reflected a rivalry that was on a number of planes; club and international. The defeat also caused violent clashes on the Dutch-German border.

The 20 Greatest Defeats Of All Time (No. 20-16)

2007-12-28T11:23:00.000-08:00

Following on from my article about reasons of defeat, I have compiled a list of defeats, which have caused a great impact in the course of footballing history. Here is the first five…of which most have been chosen of the circumstances and the drama involved.

Inter Milan 0 – 5 AC Milan 2005 Champions League Quarter Final
One of the most infamous Milan derbies in recent history, with a 2-0 lead from the first leg, AC were set to win, with a 1-0 lead from Shevchenko when the unruly Inter Ultras struck in protest to a goal from Argentine Cambiasso ruled out by referee Markus Merk. The objection consisted of bottles and debris being thrown onto the pitch and soon escalated to lit flares, one of which hit Milan keeper Dida on the shoulder, suffering first-degree burns. Therefore, the game was abandoned and Milan were awarded a 3-0 win, and the Nerazzurri fined €200,000, a UEFA record.

Bayern Munich v Manchester United 1999 Champions League Final
Three minutes of injury time had changed the outcome of this game. Man United had played poorly in Barcelona and it seemed to be Bayern’s trophy. The Bavarian club’s ribbons had been attached onto the cup, and it was only till after Munich substituted Basler and Matthaus that United came back into the game. A scuffed Giggs shot reached Sheringham, who scored from six yards. Then came another Beckham corner as ITV commentator asked: ‘is this their moment?’ Sheringham headed the ball down and Solskjaer instinctively swung his boot at the ball and lashed it into the roof of the net with virtually the final kick of the game. Having played an effective counter-attacking game-plan and hit the woodwork a number of times, against all the odds, the Mancunians completed the infamous treble and rival fans would never hear the end of it.

AC Milan 3-3 Liverpool 2005 Champions League Final
An impossible defeat. A Milan side, who scored inside a minute, and tore Liverpool to shreds through the clever running of Kaka, the smart passing of Pirlo and the killer instinct of Crespo and Shevchenko. It should have been four, if not for a poor decision by the linesman to deny Milan a fourth before the half time whistle. Then inside a six minute period, doubts crept into Milanese minds, when Gerard scored with a looping header. Reminders of previous matches against Deportivo La Coruna and close scares against Lyon and PSV Eindhoven cropped up. Even after the score was level, now cult hero Jerzy Dudek made to awesome saves from Shevchenko in the dying moments of extra-time at point-blank range. The penalty shoot-out brought out a Grobbelaar-esque instinct in Dudek who won the cup for the Merseyside club. Milan took revenge two years later.

USA 1-0 England 1950 World Cup First Round
Dubbed ‘Miracle on Grass’, it also has a film made after it released in 2005. This defeat finally took away the English belief of superiority in the game of football, and it displayed an urgent need to change the outlook upon the English game. New styles were being developed; most were tactically and aesthetically superior. Having refused to play against countries against whom they had fought in the war previously, and arguments on bonuses amongst other things, they finally arrived in Brazil, ready to prove their dominance. Or so they hope. Gaetjens scored against in defiance to the English dominance. It was beautifully summed by victorious American footballer Harry Keough in the aftermath through, ‘Boy, I feel sorry for these bastards. How are they ever going to live down the fact we beat them?’

Liverpool 0-2 Arsenal 1989 Division One
It was the final game of the season. Arsenal was trailing by three points. Liverpool was ahead on goal difference. The situation to George Graham’s Gunners was clear. They had to win by two clear goals. For Liverpool defeat was unthinkable and not a possibility against an Arsenal side with a defeat and a draw in their previous two home games. Enter Michael Thomas. Arsenal was leading by a goal through Alan Smith. Appeals of offside were waved away, and the final seconds are remembered by Brian Moore’s commentary: ‘Thomas, charging through the midfield... it's up for grabs now... Thomas, right at the end!’ Liverpool had lost in unbelievable circumstances.

Passive Midfield Causes Tactical Defeat!

2007-12-28T11:21:00.000-08:00

In the ‘invincible season’, we played a team with two destructive centre midfielders with two unconventional wingers, attacking the box, and switching positions with Henry, with the central focus, arguably the greatest Dutchman of this era, with his vision, technique and awareness providing elegance to the intelligent runs of Pires and Ljungberg. In contrast, that central attacking focus has changed, with Fabregas adopting a deeper role in this new, more continental team. With more technical players used in the elusive Hleb and the (ever so slightly) Rosicky, the speed on the counter-attack is not what it once used to be. Until this season that is. As Vieira used to press and harass opponents high up the pitch, leading his fellow players in forcing the opposition into making a mistake, now it is Flamini who while not as physically intimidating, makes this deficiency up through his unlimited stamina, and this new-found aggression allows us to exploit any space with greater speed.

Yet in rotating against Sevilla, while we lost any consistency, (injuries also played a hand), there has no central attacking focus, and with our wide players a striker and a right-back, this tactic did not work. It has done on occasions, such as in January 2007, in the FA cup game at Anfield where, we adopted almost a stereotypical Brazilian 4-2-2-2, with Flamini providing aggression and Gilberto experience. The wing play was superb, with the two eastern Europeans in Hleb and Rosicky, combining to great effect. Yet such a counter-attacking formation was allowed by playing two strikers, who while they were marked well, always gave a hint of a threat, and in the end (with some luck), Henry scored a great goal. With poor wide players (with Eboue limited technically, with the exception that inch perfect back heel and Eduardo, not accustomed to tracking back, leaving us exposed on the left flank), the central trio had to be strong and compact and providing an attacking focus. The fact that Cesc Fabregas, a player who has grown to become the fulcrum of this new side, barely touched the ball in the game, and operating with limited space, epitomised the poor nature of the performance.

Gilberto’s role was vital in the game-plan, with Wenger assuming he would sweep up any counter-attacks, and tackle efficiently, preventing any prolonged spell of possession for the home side. Yet after scoring early, in a group from which we had qualified, the team perhaps subconsciously dropped off, and ceased from pressing and maintaining the momentum built up. There were several instances where a Sevilla player ran at the back-four, without Denilson, Cesc or the Brazilian captain getting near to him, and delaying the release of the pass. The strong central core that was necessary had failed; as a result Sevilla for all their wasteful nature could have had six or seven, if only for some composure. With Eduardo not attempting to track back, once he scored his goal, Traore was left woefully exposed to the attacking intent of Alves and Navas, a potent combination, especially at home in front of over 60, 000 fans. Yet this was not the main issue. The midfield was being bypassed with every Sevilla attack, our ‘volante’ and his young pretender, were like Fabregas, being completely outplayed. While this added to our demise, the simple mistakes made in a Champions League match, which were extremely disappointing, emphasise that concentration and focus must be 100% at all times.

The creativity dilemma is very difficult to solve, with no replacement capable of playing the natural game, which Cesc adds to our team. Without Hleb, it will be even more evident how much this duo adds to our attacking game. Rosicky is not the solution, although he is a wonderful footballer, his direct nature is needed on the wing, where he will track back too, unlike make-shift wide-men in Walcott and Eduardo. We must hope our maestro’s injury is not serious, and will need Flamini back for the Villa game, adding aggression and a high pressing game to our style, which has now been disrupted.

A pacy backline will be needed as the positioning of Senderos ( no more needs to be said, knee-jerk articles will crop up anyway) did not inspire, nor did the majority of his play. Toure lost Fabiano for the header and conceded the penalty, and so a calm presence in Gallas, with the addition of the assured Sagna and Clichy, must improve our defensive shambles. The return of Van Persie would help the team to no end, and would force Wenger to drop the unsuccessful 4-5-1 formation he has adopted since the Dutchman’s unfortunate injury. This would all cover the fragile midfield played in Seville, but a replacement for Cesc is needed, as is cover for Hleb and Rosicky. Naturally Luka Modric comes to mind, but in addition to this, young Fran Merida can come to the fray as a contender to become Cesc’s replacement when suspension and injury strikes. In addition to this, a centre-back is needed, to cover Toure’s departure in January. The Villarreal youngster Caceres may be a possibility, having impressed on loan at Huelva. While it proved to be a good learning experience for the younger member’s of the team, it proved that many of our players aren’t as versatile as once thought.

Hopefully this nightmare of a tactical plan will make Wenger to abandon his 4-5-1 approach, and we should be lucky that it was in a match with little significance, although come February, we may be cursing the decision to rotate.

In Praise Of The Belarussian Genius!

2007-12-28T11:19:00.000-08:00

It is not right that while Walcott was very, very impressive in his role in last night’s victory, most pundits and fans alike missed out our very own Belarusian genius’ role in one of the most complete footballing performances of recent times. This was clear when the ITV commentator screamed ‘Arsenal and England!’ that most other players were to be left the scraps of praise after a young Englishman appeared to have gotten his break at the most aesthetically pleasing football club in the country.

Yet as this happened, there aren’t enough adjectives to describe how well Hleb has been playing recently and his role in the destruction of Slavia Prague. Done Howe, the former Arsenal manager, claimed some months ago that Hleb can play a similar role in this side as Messi does for Barcelona (this is not to directly compare the two players in any way). After witnessing his form this season it is hard to understand why he could not fulfil such a role. His close control, vision and awareness, enabled Arsenal to unlock the stubborn rearguard action of Bolton last weekend. His ability to find space in the centre of the pitch assisted his more direct team-mates with an inch perfect pass exploited by Walcott to enable Rosicky to score. In a similar fashion he attracted a couple of Prague defenders to the corner flag occupying them as Fabregas ran into the space created, albeit assisted by a slip of his marker, to fire a curling effort beyond the reaches of Vlcek.

For all his abilities Hleb once epitomised Arsenal’s tendency to overplay. No longer is this the case. After scoring the winning goal against Fulham on the opening day of the season, which followed the equalising goal in the Emirates Cup against Inter Milan, Hleb repeated the trick in Europe against Sparta in a last minute counter attack. And against their neighbours and Czech league leaders Slavia, a quick turn in direction left a defender for dead and his pose as he shaped to shoot deceived the keeper who dived for the far post, with Hleb slotting in at the near post. Overall, of the few goals he has scored for Arsenal, more have come in Europe with perhaps the slower tempo and more tactical play benefiting Arsenal and the Belarusian in particular. And if we’re being generous, he can claim the second, which took a large deflection to lift it over the flailing hands of the Prague keeper.

Having played on the right hand side for the majority of his Arsenal career, linking up with the marauding Eboue (and now Sagna), it is clear that at his most effective Hleb plays best in the half-striker role. During Arsenal’s unbeaten season, Hleb played in the hole for Stuttgart, in a run of games which saw them defeat Manchester United, but as momentum dissipated, he was shunted out to his old role on the left, with Coach Felix Magath in favour of Hakan Yakin, which ironically is where some of his best Arsenal performances have come from. With Wenger experimenting with a more possession based 4-5-1 rather than the 4-5-1, successful in Europe in 2005/6 with runners from midfield supporting Henry, this new style was less direct but more efficient in unlocking defensive teams and in retaining the ball against giants such as Inter. Qualms that remain that in this free roaming role, he may inhibit areas usually covered by Fabregas and now, Flamini.

His style which can embarrass opponents has caused retaliation or such very unorthodox methods of stopping his genius. Read Mark Noble (when has a name never been so uncomplimentary to the nature of his actions) and Paul Mcshane. Wenger has encouraged the Belarusian to continue his playing style despite a number of obstacles blocking his path, including thuggish tackles and overly defensive formations. So praise Hleb, and his much improved performances. On last night’s exhibition his name should be held in the same manner as Cesc and Theo.

If we continue our momentum there’s no reason why there shouldn’t be silverware to fill the empty trophy cabinet at Emirates Stadium, and one of the deciding factors surely must be Hleb’s awkward, yet graceful playing style.

Merida Out? Not A Chance!

2007-12-28T11:15:00.000-08:00

Francisco Merida Perez. The excitement was evident especially when those barely followed the youth and reserves were excitedly rubbing their hands in expectation. Arsenal had just signed a player who had apparently been rated more highly than Cesc Fabregas, a player who was (and is more so than ever) the nucleus of this young Arsenal team at the ripe, old age of 19.

With a cloud of confusion between UEFA and FIFA concerning rules over the transfer of youth players, with the latter prohibiting the international transfers of U18s and the former allowing it in exceptional circumstances, which for most Champions League sides such a rule applies on all occasions. Thus Arsenal again exploited the loophole and was helped by the fact that promising youth players cannot sign a professional contract until 18 in Spain. In shady circumstances, Merida left the Barcelona academy months before his 16th birthday and signed for Arsenal under the advice of Joseba Diaz, also the agent of Fabregas. At London Colney, he improved various aspects of game, which were already acquired from the £7 million academy at Barcelona. An experience of the continental way of playing certainly bodes well, especially if one considers the unique brand of football Arsenal play. Compare the player to Theo Walcott, who started playing the beautiful game relatively late, and it appears that the majority of his youth football exploited his pace and focused on competitiveness, rather than look to improve his weaknesses.

While Theo has great potential as we have seen in a number of his appearances (where he has been played out of position), his footballing intelligence is relatively poor, while the majority of foreign players can quickly select the most promising option to advantage their side. Therefore players like Rooney, who has extraordinary footballing intelligence, are extremely rare to find in England. On personal evidence, I have seen Merida play thrice at the Emirates, with the former two appearances in the FA Youth Cup, where he dictated the play from deep, playing as a base, which the youngsters used to keep possession, in an almost Pirlo-esque manner. He rarely ventured forward in the matches but in most cases kept the attacking impetus to the home side. This appeared to be similar to Fabregas’ early Arsenal career, where having scored 30 goals a season in the Barca youth team, he played from deep, and only recently where having bulked up, he started adding goals to his already large tally of assists. I see Merida progressing in a similar way, perhaps even quicker. The player himself has a stocky build, allowing him to shield the ball to find enough time to spot and execute a pass. In a similar fashion to Fabregas, he does not have great pace, but he overcomes this with a strong positional sense. Merida, is predominantly left footed, and thus can adopt the position of an unconventional winger similar to either Hleb or Rosicky, where vision, awareness and quick feet aid the attacking cause.

As one tabloid claimed his lack of mobility and pace are said to be his downfall, yet this is just seen as a sensationalized twist by a newspaper which has little or no credibility at all. Therefore a £2.1 million fine for one of the most promising youngsters in the world is seen to be perfectly reasonable, considering Barcelona’s state of the art youth academy and the training Merida, an Atletico fan, received. Compare this to a scapegoat of many fans in Alex Song. Playing as a relatively composed central defender now, he once was ridiculed at half time in a 2-1 defeat at Craven Cottage, almost cursing Arsene Wenger in signing a £2.8 million flop. In comparison to this Merida looks to be a bargain, with Song improving to such an extent that he was the most impressive defender in the recent Carling Cup tie against Newcastle United.

It is clear that foreign players are more highly rated at clubs rather than home-grown ones. The best example is at Barcelona, where Lionel Messi, Bojan Krkic and Giovani Dos Santos, are all originally from Argentina, Serbia/Spain and Mexico respectively, these three were the only ones to graduate to the first team, rubbing shoulders with the likes of Captain Carlos Puyol and Ronaldinho. With Arsene Wenger recently claimed he is ‘addicted to statistics’, no one is better placed than the Frenchman himself to judge whether the young Spaniard is good enough. Proof that Merida has a bright future at the club is shown by a brief appearance against Newcastle in what was his first team debut. With the player predominantly left-footed, a rarity at Arsenal, with only left-full backs and striker Eduardo, such a quality is again likely to be treasured. Therefore, the reports of a possible loan move to Spain are interesting, and the cause of a presidential candidate making transfer promises in the ‘Segunda division’ (think of it to be a smaller scale claim in comparison to Calderon’s claims of signing Fabregas this summer)

Therefore I firmly believe that the young Spaniard will be fixture in the Arsenal side for years to come.

Captain Fantastic Leads Gunners To Victory

2007-11-24T11:41:00.000-08:00

Arsenal (Gallas 83’, Rosicky 85’) 2 – 0 Wigan

What do you do when three of your most influential centre-midfielders are out either suspended or injured? Also with two reserves out too, one being the Brazil captain and World Cup winner? In Arsene Wenger’s case, you bring in the second volante a.k.a. Denilson and if we’re going down the comparison route, the new Makelele in Diarra.

Yet this was far from the polished performance from Arsenal’s youngsters, with neither youngster able to make the runs from deep to support Adebayor, the Togolese focal point in attack, in a way that only the mercurial Fabregas can.

After a week of criticism concerning the lack of Englishmen in this Arsenal team, young Theo Walcott had a promising performance, where rather than give the ball away as an Englishman tends to do (just ask Luka Modric), his performance was full of pace, control and excitement, with one turn, evading a trio of Wigan players, but the end product compromised of a lash that went into the upper tiers of the Emirates stadium.

Wigan came into the game with the simple idea of defending in numbers and counter-attacking sporadically (with some added luck), executed it with some success with Marcus Bent heading over the bar, when forcing Almunia (when does he naturalise to play for England?) into at least a save should have been on the cards.

Frustrated in their inability to break through the resilient Latics’ backline, led by Emerson Boyce, who made a number of blocks and interceptions to keep Arsenal out, as usual in their bid to replicate Cruyff’s ‘total football’ Messrs Gallas and Toure came forward in a bid to rescue their relatively blunt attack.

After all this is Arsenal we are talking about. An unfortunate injury to Theo Walcott was caused by a foul from the substitute Heskey, making his comeback from the dreaded metatarsal injury.

Enter Bendtner. The young Dane came to the fray, with Steve Bruce quaking in his corporate box seat, after managing the youngster on loan last season. And Bruce was right to be worried, with Bendtner laying off Sagna to provide the assist for a Gallas header, in a typical captain’s performance, naturally including a scuffle and stoutly accusing Bent.

Immediately after, he provided the assist to Rosicky, who finished with aplomb as the Gunners went three points clear, but with Walcott now out, Arsenal will be a marketing tool in the quota propaganda machine.

Super Eagles Fly High as Spain’s Penalty Hell continues…

2007-09-09T06:28:00.001-07:00

Two contrasting styles faced each other in Seoul with a powerful Nigeria full of enthusiasm, up against the more technical and patient Spanish style; the result? An open attacking game, with plenty of chances but in the end, Spain lost in a shoot-out, which followed history, with most Spanish national teams being knocked out in the latter stages of a competition, perhaps due to an unseen mental block.

Nigeria’s adventurous style created a number of chances, with a plethora of dribbles, past a number of Spanish players, shooting as soon as the opportunity rose. Naturally, this eccentric style resulted in a number of efforts unsuccessfully off target. Spain too, missing the striker’s instinct and cutting edge provided by Barcelona’s Bojan Krkic, who was suspended, and so adopted this method of shooting on site, with the link up play with the strikers erased by the disciplined Nigerian defence, whose quick release of possession allowed the Super Eagles to embark on quick counter attacks, to unsettle the Spaniards.

Quick passing and strength allowed Yemi Tella’s side to keep the ball well and the dangerous Rafeal amongst others provided a predatory threat to De Gea’s goal, with long shots, to mazy dribbles and good positioning making him a constant threat. But don’t forget luck. When a cross evaded all and reached the far post (30’), he cut inside his marker to create space, and having done the hard part, the shot rifled the net from five yards (the side netting that is).

What followed was constant Nigerian pressure, with the Spaniards unable to cope with the speed and strength, which was clearly evident, of the African side. When Spain attempted to break up the run of play, they were unsuccessful, with Fran Merida and co. being pressed into making errors. In one occasion, Spain did nearly score (35’) but at the far post from a corner, the Spanish player side-footed against the post, in what was one of the game’s best chances.

The end to end action petered out, as the tempo slowed and both sides over-hit simple passes or tried the unnecessarily complex pass. Any attempts to break the deadlock were becoming more desperate, with the best chances coming from set pieces. In a jagged second period Spain, had few opportunities, but decision making was poor, even by the normally reliable Merida, who opted to shoot (high and wide), when a pass was better option.

Nigeria discovered a late sense of urgency and attacked in numbers with substitute Isa forced a great save from the Spanish keeper after he controlled a pass over the top of the Spanish defence, cut inside his marker and fired towards the opposite corner, with De Gea tipping the ball over at full stretch (90+2’). The game could have been over earlier if Nigeria used their counter attacks to good effect, with a number of their players guilty of perhaps overplaying and losing the opportunity to create a scoring chance.

Extra time beckoned and both sides hit the woodwork, with Iago Falque, who has interested Chelsea cutting in from the right wing, firing in a powerful drive (116’). The look on his face presumed defeat, as the penalty shoot-out loomed. Both sides received bookings as the flow broke up, and both Merida and Abdulkarim being booked for unnecessary challenges.

Ajiboye was to be Nigeria’s hero saving two spot kicks and seeing another wide, with his large presence. The final penalty was slightly delayed due the ball being in the wrong position and with the added pressure of the necessity to score; Iago Falque struck a poor penalty straight at Ajiboye and sealed the Super Eaglets’ win in Seoul.

No doubt the number of scouts would have been impressed by the talent displayed in South Korea, with eyes pointing towards, Toni Kroos, the German playmaker, Chrisantus, the top-scoring Nigerian, and naturally Bojan Krkic, who is set to break into Barcelona’s first team, while his team mate Dani Aquino has already been interesting Real Madrid. It is natural to expect that in a few years time, these same names will be showing their talents on a much greater stage.

AC Milan 3 Sevilla 1

2007-08-31T14:15:00.000-07:00

In a moving tribute to the late Antonio Puerta, Sevilla decided to play in the European Super cup final. In the aftermath to the tragic death of the much loved Andalusian, Sevilla president stated, “With the memory of Antonio Puerta, we start playing again with the desire to win the Super Cup and we will dedicate it to him”. With a short video preceding the match showing the highlights of Puerta’s short footballing career, his Sevilla team-mates sporting his name on their shirts and the fans chanting ‘Puerta!’ right until the minute of silence...the whole of the Stade Louis II appearing to be weighed down by emotion and the memory of Puerta.

The match began at a fast pace, with a well worked opening allowing Renato to shoot in the second minute, inevitably wide after scuffing the effort. Immediately at the other end Seedorf played in Inzaghi, who cut in, only for Kaka to take the ball into his stride and fire against the woodwork. 14 minutes in Renato headed in at the far post from a corner taken in from the right, after Jankulovski took no chances from a deep Duda cross. The celebration that followed was a team huddle with all arms pointing to the high heavens. In a game of fair play, Inzaghi soon had to fall with alarming ease in a meager attempt (20’) to win Milan a penalty. The experienced back-line were torn to shreds when an Alves cross was deflected into Kanoute’s path, who evaded Dida and opted to cross to Renato, whose shot was hacked clear by Nesta on the goal line. Duda’s return was high and wide.

Renato was an aerial threat and failed to connect to a free-kick on 28 minutes. Then Seedorf headed over following a Pirlo corner a few minutes later. In 32 minutes Palop gratefully clutched the ball after Inzaghi moved away from his marker and fired in a low drive from the edge of the area. Ambrosini (43’) almost broke the resistance but a dangerous through ball was cut out but the Sevilla defence. While earlier Kanoute chested down and fired wide. Inzaghi went even closer but somehow missed. Finally the Sevilla defence broke, but the linesman’s flag chalked off a predatory finish by the Italian (46’).

Alves was a constant thorn in the Milan side, with driving runs and probing lofted passing he applied himself well by spreading the play with long range passing and also Sevilla’s short passing game and burst a lung to supply support to Sevilla’s pacy counter attacks. His aggressive manner in defensive situations certainly doesn’t bode well for Rosicky or whoever plays on the Arsenal left flank for the opening Champions league match against the Andalusian club.

After a slow second start, Milan started to press more and on 51 minutes a Seedorf cross was cut out, a minute later a Pirlo counter attack ended following a poor cross from the Dutchman. Following this a clever turn and backheel by the deep-lying Italian playmaker released Gattuso, who crossed for Inzaghi to head into an empty net after the Sevilla defence fell asleep, perhaps unprepared for Pirlo’s brilliance (55’). Sevilla almost regained the lead when Kanoute crossed, but Duda was unable to connect (56’). But it was the Milanese that struck, with Jankulovski running in from left-back on a lofted through ball by Pirlo to volley past Palop in an efficient manner (62’).

Milan took control as they showed their experience, with pieces of delightful skill coming from Kaka, who knocked the ball past Alves and ran the opposite side, with the strong dribble ended with a stern Poulsen challenge. In an attempt to press for the equaliser, Juande Ramos brought on Luis Fabiano, a volatile Brazilian on for Julian Escude, who is a centre-back (82’). Sevilla’s hopes ended when the brilliant Brazilian Kaka headed in a rebound after his penalty was saved by Palop (86’). The celebration included pointing to Puerta’s name on his shirt at the Sevilla end of the ground in a touching gesture. In similar fashion Seedorf raised his shirt to the fans, holding up Puerta’s name, when being substituted. Maresca had a late chance to make for a nervy finish but hit the post from point blank range (90’).

In the end the Italians deserved their win, but this night will long be remembered for the tribute of Antonio Puerta. Meanwhile Arsenal should be aware of the quality of the Spanish team, while the occasion may have been overwhelming, the Andalusians acquitted themselves well and well dangerous on many occasions. Rest in Peace: Antonio Puerta.

Goals: Renato (14’), Inzaghi (55’), Jankulovski (62’), Kaka (86’)

Milan: Dida, Kakha Kaladze, Gennaro Gattuso (Emerson 73’ ), Filippo Inzaghi (Alberto Gilardino 88’), Clarence Seedorf (Cristian Brocchi 89’), Alessandro Nesta, Marek Jankulovski, Andrea Pirlo, Kaká, Massimo Ambrosini, Massimo Oddo

Subs Not Used: Zeljko Kalac, Cafu, Giuseppe Favalli, Daniele Bonera

Coach: Carlo Ancelotti

Sevilla: Andrés Palop, Ivica Dragutinović, Daniel Alves, Duda (Enzo Maresca 84’), Jesús Navas, Christian Poulsen, Renato, Frédéric Kanouté, Julien Escudé (Luis Fabiano 83’), José Luis Martí (Aleksandr Kerzhakov 65’), Seydou Keita

Subs Not Used: Morgan De Sanctis, Aquivaldo Mosquera, Diego Capel, Tom De Mul,

Coach: Juande Ramos

Referee: Konrad Plautz (AUT)
Assistant referee: Egon Bereuter (AUT), Markus Mayr (AUT)
Fourth official: Fritz Stuchlik (AUT)

'Red and White Holdings' Gunning for Arsenal

2007-08-30T12:22:00.000-07:00

August 30th…the day before the transfer window shuts. It’s also the day when rather than a flurry of transfer activity occurs, £75 million pounds worth of shares have been ‘sold’ to a Russian Alisher Usmanov (not an oligarch in this case), and the formation of ‘Red and White Holdings’ has occurred, with Iranian Farhad Moshiri also involved. With the media eagerly anticipating a swift takeover, it now appears that there is competition to American Stan Kroenke for the right to own Arsenal football club.

While Arsenal fans should be cautiously accepting the possible return of Dein and his associates, who while they may have a supporting interest in football, have little experience in investing in the sporting world, which possibly only Dein has. Kroenke, on the other hand, who many journalists had tipped to lead a takeover in liaison with Dein, has a wealth of sporting investments, including the ownership of Colorado Rapids, who conduct a marketing partnership with Arsenal.

Yet after such a bid failed, Dein has found a way back into the club in an attempt to provide the necessary financial muscle he believes is necessary to thrive in today’s game, with Premiership clubs appearing to become a common plaything of foreign billionaires. He stresses that there is “no current intention” to invest in further shares for the club, and this move is also unlikely to prompt Kroenke to act, with a lock down agreement, in action until March of next year at the earliest, formed by the board. Neither should F1 chief and Chelsea fan Bernie Ecclestone act, as it is believed he entertained the gesture of bidding for the club in jest.

It was Dein (along with Wenger, who was hired by Dein himself) who took ‘The Gunners’ to the top, the same applies to his career, when he lead the break away to form The Premiership and in 2002 was pivotal in Arsenal joining G14. The Emirates Stadium was more an achievement of other board members such as Keith Edelman, and also Arsene Wenger, with Dein wanting Arsenal to move into the proposed New Wembley (and what a sham construction turned out to be). It is believed any takeover will occur over a lengthy period of time, with majority shareholder Danny Fiszman intending to keep his shares after the proposed ‘lock-down agreement’, as is Lady Nina Bracewell-Smith.

While the other shareholders in the club have done a sterling job, Hill-Wood included, overlooking his ill-timed remarks concerning foreign investment in “We don’t want his sort over here”, tradition and history will be lost if such a change does occur in the upper hierarchy at the club, yet fans should be pleased as long as a English presence is retained at the club, and one that also allows Arsenal to compete on the same level as the other European giants.

On the other hand, the enigmatic Arseblogger claims that Usmanov was in prison during the old Soviet regime, and states that a man with no social responsibility should not be deemed fit to own shares in Arsenal football club. With the Emirates stadium bringing in over £1 million pounds every match day, it makes most sense for the current board to remain. Meanwhile, I’ll leave the pro-Dein propaganda to Myles Palmer and co.

'We Lost Because We Didn't Win!'

2007-08-30T04:48:00.000-07:00

There have been football matches over various times, which have shaped the game as we know it. The result has been creation of new formations, new styles and the making and breaking of reputations within the game. What is the cause of such great change? Defeat: an enigma that occurs on many occasions, yet the cause of defeat itself lies on a number of factors rather than a solitary, crystal-clear reason. Surely it cannot be as Ronaldo suggested in a 2000 hearing, analysing the loss against France a few years previous?

On a number of occasions, the defeat is often self-inflicting, with poor tactics being exploited by the opposition team, with the manager being criticised. For example in 1950, Brazil’s reliance on the opposition playing the WM formation (devised by Herbert Chapman of Arsenal), which they easily took apart, was the predominant factor in their 2-1 defeat to Uruguay. The Uruguayans, in contrast to Spain and Sweden took up an offensive looking formation, and found faults in the Brazilians defensive line, which was covered up by their brilliant attacking play. The consequence of the defeat was so great that even now it is seen as the greatest national tragedy in Brazilian history, where the overwhelming favourites lost. According to Alex Bellos’s Futebol, in the 28th minute, Obdulio hit Bigode, Brazil's left half, and this punch changed the psychological advantage that Brazil had over their opponents. And in the 79th minute, Gigghia caught out Barbosa, by shooting at the near post rather than crossing as he did for Uruguay’s first goal. It is now known as The Fateful Goal.

A similar national tragedy occurred in 1974, when Rinus Michels reunited the majority of the legendary Ajax team for the World Cup. Similar to 1950, the fate of the final had already been sealed according to the public and the media. Jules Rimet had already prepared a speech in Portuguese; The Brazilian Federation had ordered gold medals for the players and for the 173,850 Brazilians, losing to local rivals, recently disposed of, in front ‘almost 10%’ of Rio’s population’, a world record at the time, according to Bellos. Countless books and articles have been published since then, analysing why such an impossible result had indeed happened. Overwhelming favourites in Germany 1974, against the hosts themselves, this defeat is blamed on a plethora of reasons, but most intriguingly against Bild, the German tabloid, who ran a story of a pool party before the final itself. The party may have caused a change in mood in the Dutch camp, with the wives and girlfriends calling to seek the truth. In the years after the defeat, they acknowledge its existence, but deny their partners’ involvement in it.

Another reason is political. The Nazi invasion of Holland in the World War is one that is almost always mentioned in the build up to any Dutch-German match up, and many see this as an inferiority complex in Holland’s disfavour. Yet when the Dutch found themselves a goal up inside a minute from Cruyff’s run and the penalty which it fashioned, they ‘forgot’ about the second goal and killing the game off. They wanted to embarrass their ‘German oppressors’, which their fellow finalists had no part in. This taunting football, angered the Germans, led by Beckenbauer, Der Kaiser, and soon they rallied, with Paul Breitner and Der Bomber, Gerd Muller scoring an awkward yet balletic goal. As the second half progressed, the Dutch played their usual game of ‘Total Football’, but could not breach the Deutsch rearguard, led by the original libero Beckenbauer.

What other reasons can one conjure up, rather than inferior quality? The fact that Cruyff, man-marked by Berti Vogts, played too deep in the first half to have impact through his sublime technical ability, shows that even a tactical genius such as the Dutchman himself is prone to flaws. Another reason, why defeat occurs is through refereeing decisions. The words by Beckenbauer to English referee Jack Taylor in the appeals to the first minute Dutch penalty award may have affected his unbiased view throughout the rest of the game. ‘You are an Englishman’ must have echoed through his mind when awarding a penalty to the Germans, for which Holzenbein dived. This was countered when he disallowed a potential second Muller goal for offside, perhaps in his mind evening up the consequences of his previous decision.

Rene Mercet is a name which lies with Italy’s 1934 World Cup success. The Swiss referee had a hand in Italy’s path to World Cup glory. With the use of this global sporting event hosted in Italy, Mussolini used it to his advantage to promote his fascist views. Mercet is thought to have favoured Italy through controversial refereeing decisions, seen in Italy’s 7-1 win against the USA and the Quarter Final replay against Spain. He was later suspended by the Swiss Football Federation. Calls for use of goal-line technology were heightened when teams were saved from defeat due to a lack of communication. The first incident was in early 2005, when Pedro Mendes’s shot from 50 yards was fumbled by then United keeper Roy Carroll, but the linesman Rob Lewis defends the ‘non-goal’ claiming he was ‘doing my primary job’ which was ‘watching for offside’. Worse was the ‘lack of concentration’ in a regional tournament in the state of Sao Paulo, where female referee Silvia Regina de Oliveira awarded a goal when a ball boy kicked the ball in jest into the net, allowing Santacruzense to draw level late into the game. As was the case with Cruyff’s decision not to go to the 1978 World Cup, the decision was blamed on his wife Danny; it seemed easy to blame defeat on women then.

Unlike Mussolini, who was promoting his Fascist party, Franco, the notorious Spanish dictator, used to apparently allow Barcelona the occasional victory in the El Clasico derby in order exploit morbo, and in this way he portrayed the Catalan club and everything connected with it to be taboo. He banned Catalan to be spoken amongst other things. In 1943, Barcelona were 3-0 up front the first leg in the King’s cup match, and lost 11-1 in the second leg after a visit before the game from the director of state security threatening the players that they are only living in the country due to the generous nature of Franco. This bullying nature still appears to live on in Madrid through their tactics in the transfer market.

The final reason is financial. Of course aside from the watch worth £18,000, that Moggi gave to a referee in Italy, in return for certain favours within the recipient’s profession, there lies a reason why defeat occurs instead of corruption and match-fixing. Conspiracy theorists will be glad to see the return of contemplating the reason of Ronaldo’s zombie-esque movement in the 1998 World Cup final. Many say it was a fit of some sort, but what was the reason for the inclusion in the starting XI? Perhaps a boot contract that requires him to play? This was also reported to be the case why Rensenbrink of the Netherlands played in the 1974 final, when it was clear he was not fit with a thigh injury.

Or maybe you could forget all this and just believe Ronaldo’s input, which is to put it simply: difference in quality, conceding goals and also poor team performance.

Antonio Puerta: May He Rest in Peace

2007-08-29T06:37:00.000-07:00

Sevilla’s Antonio Puerta’s death was confirmed three days after collapsing in their opening game of the season against Getafe. He was a promising, versatile footballer, with the world at his feet, and was about to become a father. Sevilla had postponed Tuesday's Champions league qualifier against AEK Athens and the Super Cup match against AC Milan but now it will be played in homage to the late Spanish footballer.

A short film showing the 22-year-old's career will be played before the game between the Champions League and Uefa Cup winners. Flags in the stadium will be flown at half mast, there will be a minute's silence and the players will wear black armbands.

I would like to refer you to a piece by Arseblogger, who put how the majority of the footballing world is feeling.

"Finally today I want to take a moment to talk about how sad I felt about the
death of Sevilla’s Antonio Puerta. I, like many of you, was watching the game on
Saturday night when he collapsed so we’ve been with him ever since. Seeing him
wheeled out of the ground and rushed away in an ambulance was sickening,
especially when you could tell by the paramedics that it was serious. There was
hope as many times in cases like this an athlete simply drops and that’s the
end. We saw it some years ago when Marc Vivien Foe died during the Confederations Cup.
But as the days passed the doctors grew more pessimistic and yesterday afternoon Antonio Puerta passed away. For someone like me who plays park football and enjoys a pint and the odd smoke and doesn’t always stick to a healthy diet it’s quite sobering. A young man, less than 6 weeks away from being a father for the first time, is dead.
I’ve been reading the coverage in the Spanish papers and it’s heartbreaking stuff. Julio Baptista spoke of the enormous jolt of pain he felt when he heard. Messages of support and sympathy have flooded in from every Spanish club. Ex-teammate Antoñito declared himself ‘broken’ at the news. I listened to the President of Betis, Manuel Ruiz de Lopera, who has had the worst relationship with Sevilla FC and their President Jose Maria del Nido that you can possibly imagine, speak on the radio about Puerta’s death and the genuine emotion and solidarity for Sevilla, their fans and the family of Antonio Puerta was very moving.
Antonio Puerta will be buried today at 2pm Spanish time. A promising career and a young life cut short well before time. Perhaps, as we bitch and moan about not signing a fat Brazilian or any kind of winger, we might think about this and put it all in perspective.
I have never tried to speak on behalf of any other Arsenal fans, but I think I can do so today when I say to the family and friends of Antonio Puerta, everyone at Sevilla FC and all their fans, that we send our most sincere condolences and sympathy. May he rest in peace. "

My deepest sympathies to Sevilla Fútbol Club and more importantly, the family of Puerta. RIP.

The Dark Horses of Europe

2007-08-23T12:36:00.000-07:00

There are certain clubs where many feel the time has come, for glory again. Having lain dormant, they have to challenge again for the title and become national champions. Here is a preview of the underdogs in the various national leagues all around Europe.

England: Arsenal
A team in transition, the majority say…’you don’t win anything with kids’, Alan Hansen says…well the Arsenal camp has come out with several statements of a great team spirit, epitomised in the late goals against Fulham, the battling successes against Sparta and Blackburn. The season is long and hard, but while fellow rivals underestimate the North London team, on the basis of their summer spending, which was one of Wenger’s bigger expenditures in his time in charge of the Gunners, I believe that they shall quietly challenge without any big names and a team ethic.

Liverpool shouldn’t really be considered as a dark horse considering their current squad quality and depth, but not having won the league since 1989-90 means there is a pressure on the Anfield side, and the lack of domestic success means they are a huge outsider to break the recent Chelsea, Manchester United monopoly.

Italy: Fiorentina
Having not won Serie A since the ‘Italian Job’ was released in 1969, the Florence club have assembled an side, which can challenge the Champions league spots and even have an outside chance for the title. Toni may have been sold, but the funds have been used to build a youthful yet talented side, with the prolific (albeit at youth level) Lupoli, along with the other outstanding Belgian talent of his generation in Vanden Borre and other potential stars, the club can surprise a few giants this year, especially with future star Pazzini, who scored the first hat-trick in the new Wembley.

Juventus, having returned from their Serie B exile, still have the experienced Nedved, Trezeguet and club captain Del Piero, along with a number of talented youngsters. Part of the upper hierarchy at the club has been overturned and a new beginning is imminent.

Spain: Villarreal
Riquelme is at the centre of a transfer conundrum. Having decided that he is not important enough to have a team built around him, the Spanish side instead decided upon a team ethos. Gone too, is the prolific Forlan (well in Spain anyway). Long term injury victims Pires and Rodriguez have returned, along with Rio Mavuba, to give the team a technical and physical style.

Having spent big via the sale of star striker Torres, Atletico Madrid has a great chance to break into the top four. An encouraging pre-season along with impact from signings Reyes, Simao amongst others, has added to the underachieving side flair and a strong work ethic. Is it enough to mount an outside title challenge? Time will tell…

Germany:
Who in Germany is capable of surpassing Bayern Munich? Well apart from the current Champions from Stuttgart, naturally Bremen or Schalke 04 are considered. Both have had title bids in recent years, both are considered dark horses since Bayern’s summer shock therapy, which cost them near to €80 million. Having bought from their rivals in Altintop and Klose, they have strengthened as well as weakening the outside bets. As the Bundesliga progesses, it will be evident who will form the supposed chasing pack, especially when Werder have already been slaughtered by the Bavarian machine.

The €30 Million Horror Show

2007-08-20T04:41:00.000-07:00

Granted it was his first big game for the club, but on first impressions, class usually shines through and here it was a dark cloud that hung over the Bernabeu more so than anything else. When bombing forward with the ball, Pepe first seemed to be a reminder of Bayern’s Lucio, but when he stayed forward, leaving Cannavaro to defend against a dangerous and effective Sevilla attack, it clearly showed that he lacks the discipline to play in a top team.

The Real movement was very poor, which presented a lack of options to play the ball out of the defence, but when options were open he passed the ball either out of play or straight to the defence, with Sneijder, supposed to be providing an link throughout the team, virtually anonymous. The game passed Diarra by, a player more suited to perhaps a physical battle, not a common occurrence in Spain. The Midfield was too narrow, with Robinho, Drenthe, although he scored playing in each other’s space, allowing the Andalusian club to exploit the space with ease. A Kanoute hat-trick and Renato double sealed a convincing win over their title rivals.

The width came from the full backs, with Ramos capping an effective attacking performance with a goal, and this left Cannavaro playing against three men, with Drenthe always overlapping Robinho (in the second half, when he was moved back), and Ramos, practically the only effective outlet for the Madrid giants, and when that is the case, it is clear that the final outcome is not going to be great. While Alves was a force, with driving runs, the discipline of Poulsen and Renato covered their team-mate’s (a word not heard by the 11 footballers in the white shirts) place.

Eventually, his generally poor performance was worsened by a hand ball to clear the ball over the bar to concede a penalty and then a sending off. When Queiroz said he could have bought Pepe a number of years ago for €2 million, perhaps that value hasn’t risen, except through Calderon’s overindulgence in signing playing staff. Schuster has a huge job in overturning his side’s fortunes, and sorting the mental block of his players in not passing to one another quickly enough, after deciding that dribbling or a shot on goal is not possible. Schuster must build from the back in order to keep the vultures off his back. The return of his fellow countryman Metzelder will be crucial. However the link through the team, still hangs on Guti’s shoulders, who is a bit-part player, yet still turns the team’s game around in his substitute appearances. Sneijder will step into this role but the squad must remain the same for a team approach and spirit to be created.

Another sacking is imminent and a lack of continuity in Real’s play is evident, and with Calderon adopting this strategy of sack and hope, it appears that the Madrid club will not have a team (just 11 individuals) ready in time for the Madrid derby and first game of La Liga season.

Dutch... Not French!

2007-08-18T13:34:00.000-07:00

You may think I’m crazy, but I’m not actually comparing this Arsenal side to that great Ajax team, more towards the entire Dutch culture towards football and it appears to relate to this new Arsenal side.

Naturally it is easy to look at past Dutch players at the club, when you had arguably the most influential player of his era in Dennis Bergkamp. He often said, ‘I guess I’m not interested in scoring ugly goals’, and this is clear to see nowadays with a number of flair players at the club, preferring to pass the ball to create an opening and scoring a ‘pure’ goal. It is this moral superiority of aesthetically better football, which causes defeats against inferior opposition. The Dutch have had a nemesis in the shape of the dreaded penalty shoot-out, and it is interesting to note that in 1998 World Cup Semi-final penalty shoot-out defeat against an inferior Brazil only Overmars and Bergkamp scored their respective spot-kicks, perhaps showing a different, perhaps English perspective towards this lottery. It is because of this moral high ground that perhaps the team have subconsciously not tried as much against teams in the lower half of the table, an argument clearly proven in the results against those very teams.

Moving on to the coach, Wenger is similar to the Romanian Stefan Kovacs, in his footballing philosophy. Both allowed their players freedom, in their style of play and used a closer man-management approach rather than the disciplinarians whom they succeeded in George Graham and Rinus Michels (excluding Bruce Rioch). It was in Kovacs’s years as coach, in which Ajax swept all aside in front of them, with a freedom to play and destroy. Both emphasised a team ethos and perhaps it is because the lack of a true leader that Arsenal failed. The most technically gifted players were the captains in Henry and Cruyff, and while one was tactically accomplished, and a leader, the other had a glaring, demotivating stare. While both left their respective teams, Cruyff, because he was voted out of the captaincy, and Henry, for personal reasons, they were both repressing the rest of their team-mates. It was rumoured that a number of the other Ajax players were disconcerted by Cruyff’s influence at the club, while the youngsters were intimidated by Henry’s glare and the enormity of his accomplishments.

While this Gunners team is nowhere near in the league of that great Ajax team, it can accomplish success through a style of football based on Michel’s idea, but with football now faster and more physical it would be impossible to create such a team. Ajax, like Arsenal in recent years did defeat big teams, such as Shankly’s Liverpool but could not bring home trophies due to a lack of experience, in similar fashion to Arsenal’s near misses in the Champions League and Carling Cup. Yet they eventually achieved greatness as Wenger can do so with this young, underrated team. Wenger even appears to be attempting to build such a side, with versatile players such as Hleb, Flamini and Sagna all a part of the Arsenal line up. He has even recently encouraged his defenders to burst forward, such as Toure’s run leading to a powerful penalty in the match against Fulham, and also Gallas’s forays forward against Ajax in preseason.

Naturally you wouldn’t expect to see van Persie as the furthest player back, as some sort of shape and discipline must be required to play in English football today. This comes through the reliable Gilberto and Fabregas axis, with allows the full backs to burst forward and overlap as they did effectively against Sparta in the Champions league qualifier recently. Arsenal’s tempo currently is too low to play such a brand of possession football as the extra few seconds allows the opposition to reshape their defence. Therefore there must be an option back in an attempt to retain the ball, this is why Gilberto must be open and cover any defensive position. It is this sort of decision making commonly seen in van Gaal’s Ajax of the nineties, where simplicity was used and triangles created on the pitch as is possible in the 4-5-1/4-3-3, which the Gunners are recently adopting. It is such simplicity, which Arsenal lack, for example, if the ten outfield players where on the edge of their box, Arsenal would try and pass through, when Cruyff would say, ‘pass around the majority’. The fluid attack gives Arsenal more options and a surprise in who will have the final shot on goal, but because of this style odd play, the team must become more efficient (another Dutch trait in which there is a lack of killer instinct) and defend as a unit.

Speaking of a unit, there are many potentially brilliant players at the club, but there must not be too many individualistic players, which causes a friction in team spirit. The same can be said of Holland at international tournaments, where each player is seeking personal glory and cannot even utter a word of the national anthem. This was similar to the spirit at Colney in 2005/06, with a split of the ‘invincibles’ and the younger players. Greed and money is a common issue in football…just ask Ashley Cole, this is a Dutch characteristic which appears frequently and thankfully there appears to be no sign of such an unnecessary attribute in the Arsenal squad currently. It was obvious that having different style of player up front changes the perspective of the game, while, the rest of the team, play aesthetically superior football, which in reality appears have little end product, using an awkward figure point changes the attacking options. The Czech Republic team with Jan Koller had skilful players such as Nedved and Rosicky, but rather than a flat pass as a final ball, Koller provides aerial threat, and a physical style that mixes well with the flair players and their ‘tiki taka’, as Sid Lowe of the Guardian put it, style of play (pass and move).

In conclusion, this is why against gritty teams, which Arsenal feel superior to, should be up against a Bendtner style player, who won a number of headers against the huge (but average) Zat Knight, because Bendtner does not play that style of ‘Dutch’ football, but the more efficient ‘German’ style (if you forgive me for another stereotypical comparision). He is still young, thus his technique will improve as will his experience of top flight football. Therefore, Arsenal must strive to use a player, who will adapt to their playing style, but also bring one of his own, and that is difficult in today’s game.

Power Of The Media

2007-07-27T05:44:00.000-07:00

In recent times, as technology increases, the relationship of the football club and the fan has evolved, become more technological and less personal. Football was always a business, a way of making money. Yet as it becomes more commercial, it shapes our way of thinking especially through the media. With the idea that Premiership clubs have become the new plaything of the typical billionaire, the globalisation of football has created a trend displaying the greatest sport in the world as a money-maker. Since 1979, Liverpool led the way in carrying shirt sponsorship, a trend which grew and still is, for the space across the front of the shirt appears now to have become prestigious. Yet recently, its morality was questioned, when Fredi Kanoute, the Sevilla striker refused to wear the logo of the team sponsor 888.com, because as a devout Muslim, he believed that the promotion of gambling poisoned the minds of young and old fans alike.

It is examples such as these which shows how the media is becoming ever important and as it through the media, of whatever kind that speculation of a plethora of matters concerning clubs occurs. The recent coverage of the Premiership is set by a deal worth £1.7 billion pounds split by BSkyB and Setanta, who broke Rupert Murdoch’s monopoly on the television rights with £625 million being split between the 20 clubs each season until the 2009/10 season, predicting a windfall of £2.7 billion for the clubs involved in that time period. The worldwide interest in the Premiership, was epitomised by the fierce bidding war by companies in Hong Kong in an attempt to win broadcasting rights. Now as media formats evolve, new rights concerning mobile phone highlights, internet, radio and naturally the prestigious terrestrial and digital television have emerged.

It is exposure of this media through which the views of a typical fan have been shaped. Those who have a lack of access to a match ticket, a common dilemma in the multicultural London, or access to a television may resort to poor quality internet streaming or an almost masochistic use through the use of Ceefax, with the constant refreshing of the page, agonising in a bid to check whether the score that concerns one has changed or not, for better or for worse.

The media communicates football all over the world and is a powerful tool, especially with ticket prices being raised with increased, watching highlights doe not give a full picture of a player’s performance, which is why attacking players with flair have greater exposure with perhaps a great piece of skill, when their overall contribution is minimal. Thus players such as Makelele or Gilberto, with their impeccable positioning and stability are not noticed on a television screen by the average fan. This view towards players whose game is based upon work ethic and generous team play is backed up by many fans, who are exposed to tabloids, where the commentary are often bias and even lazy as the Palacio hoax exposed Mark Irwin and The Sun’s ignorance. For example the overuse of comparisons of past or even present players to new signings due to a similarity in appearance or position or even nationality, and inability not to use pun in a large proportion of headlines. The lack of true journalistic integrity in ‘stealing’ stories from other newspapers or purposeful mistranslations from foreign stories are all reasons perhaps why the reading age of The Sun is between 9-10 years. It is the media that influences a typical fan’s view, with a certain Arsenal forum member convinced of Eboue’s capability to play on the right wing, dismissing Hleb’s return to form in the pre-season friendly against Trapattoni’s Red Bull Salzburg. While in the Northern parts of England, attendances continue to fall even with lowering ticket prices, a continuing trend shows that more revenue appears to be coming in from television and sponsorship deals rather than income accumulated from the total number of match-days. This commercialisation of football is epitomised by the idea of a bell being rung in the Emirates stadium before half time to inform the ‘audience’ (as they have been referred to) that they can purchase refreshments from the stalls. It is this new view towards football that is taking it away from the ‘terraces’ and making it a impersonal and corporate fashion accessory.

Yet in various parts of the world, this is not the case. The Kop may be joked at by the Arsenal fans in a recent match at Anfield with the chant ‘Stand up if you’ve got a job!’, yet is the idea that football is seen as a religion, which is why the aura of the sport still exists today. The great rivalry between the teams in the El Classico derby is described by Phil Ball through the Spanish word: morbo, literally translated as disease, yet in most cases it does not undertake this rather frank definition. An image defining this antipathy between the Catalan giants and Franco’s team is the plethora of objects thrown at Figo, a player who transferred for £37 million from Barcelona to Real, with the peak of ‘hatred’ the pig’s head; this act did not allow the winger to take a corner until deep into the match.

For example a young fan of either party are bred to detest the other, with the reason an enigma to the mind of the child, not exploring the social and political reasons which lead to such morbo. This can lead to violence as European nights in Rome have shown with the infamous Ultras of the club. Yet this is not one sided as xenophobic elements on either side of the incident blame the opposition. The English fans and authorities blamed the extremely intolerant Italian police force, while in reverse; the Romans blamed the actions of the English. This was the view the media of either country took, blaming the other in an attempt to appeal to their national pride.

In another side, away from violence and racist chanting, an action not uncommon in Spain; there are the lighter points, not reported in today’s media, in a permanent bid to look for the sensationalist headline. For example, in Bulgaria, a group of Arsenal supporters greeted Aliaksander Hleb, who was present with the Belarusian national team. Therefore when one looks at various sources of media, approach it with caution.

N.B I did not intend to offend the readership of any of the tabloid newspapers.

New Breed

2007-07-13T09:17:00.000-07:00

As time passes, the general playing style of the game has changed, from new tactical systems, to individual excellence. For example the most lamented moment in the history of Brazilian football, the 1950 defeat to Uruguay, is blamed upon many factors, but most decide upon Uruguay’s decision not to play the WM formation, thought up by Arsenal revolutionary Herbert Chapman, which was adopted by the teams Brazil deposed of in the earlier rounds. In similar fashion, the way in which strikers play and how they are used has changed throughout the various generations affecting the history of the game, choosing the winners and losers.

When one thinks of the targetman they immediately think of the stereotype of the big, strong centre forward, who is efficient in holding up the ball, effective in winning the aerial battle during those cold winter nights in the northern parts of England. The stereotypical image is that of Jan Koller, or recently Didier Drogba. The new type of targetman does not have to resort to use of the elbow, as Alan Shearer and Duncan Ferguson to gain an advantage in challenging for the aerial ball. Instead, as football has progressed, so has the physical fitness and build of the players, with players that exceed the norm, from Crouch to Zigic. Now, even strikers, which have an intimidating build, prefer to play the ball on the ground, with a finer first touch, releasing better through balls, rather than chase hopeful clearances from the first-third of the pitch. The new model of the target man is one with a plethora of qualities, which include pace, skill, awareness and a necessary selfish streak.

There are also unorthodox strikers, with Francesco Totti, who is currently the holder of the golden shoe, the award for the most lethal marksman in Europe. Totti, who is normally a playmaker, took on the role, and operated much higher up the field of play, where his contributions were more efficient, with his clever movement allowing team-mates to take supporting runs from deep in a fluid tactical system. In a similar fashion Thierry Henry played this kind of role in the 2005/06 Champions League run, as a lone front man, moving to either flank allowing midfield runners Fabregas, Reyes and Ljungberg to make penetrative runs wreaking havoc to the opposition, as well has scoring a few goals b exploiting the space created by the movement.

The poacher is a tag given to players who have good movement in the box and therefore tend to score more often, due to composure in tight spaces and seemingly difficult situations, and a ‘sixth sense’ for where the net is. The player which epitomises this generalisation is Gerd Müller, who scored goals of any kind, perfecting his movement in the box, twisting and turning to approach each possible situation with the maximum possibility that he would have a clear-cut chance and that that the most possible outcome would be the scoreboard reading his name. As the game has gone on, the use for pure goal-scorers has diminished as Ruud van Nistlerooy discovered when he was ruthlessly dropped mid-season by Sir Alex Ferguson in the 2005/06 season in favour of the more all-rounded Louis Saha. As the game progresses in terms of speed, players must have greater qualities and such gems are more difficult to find even with thorough scouting systems. For example, players such as Samuel Eto’o have great pace, strength and stamina make him the first line of defence for Barcelona, and allow his team to press the opposition high up the field, and along with his fellow forwards, Ronaldinho and Messi, and the interplay allows fluid change of positions, lets him use his goal-scoring talents to the full extent as his 73 goals in 115 appearances for Los Cules shows. Arsenal’s recent acquisition of Eduardo da Silva, who rather has the same instinct in front of goal, but can also dribble, pass and hold up the ball shows that not only a ‘poacher’ is now required as the failed gamble on Francis Jeffers proved. On the other hand in a team with a mindset as defensive as Helenio Herrera’s perfection of the catenaccio displayed through his Inter Milan side in the 1960’s, van Nistlerooy has been feeding off scraps, scoring a goal for every 2.3 shots he had, shows that on rare occasions, players can rely on pure instinct.

The shadow striker or half-striker is the name given to the player who drops in between the attacking and midfield lines to find space and create advantageous plays for his team. Naturally, one must be gifted to operate in this kind of role, which is rarely adopted in English football, where use of a defensive midfielder is the norm, who picks up any midfield runners, or playmakers. After Hidegkuti’s revolutionary creation of this position, coaches have created new roles or different formations for their players in order to inhibit the half-striker, from man marking, sometimes disciplined, sometimes, through collective fouling in a simultaneous fashion with each player committing a foul, a pastime in Italy. As I have suggested in a previous article, Genius is normally positioned in this role, free to move between lines, affecting the play as one sees fit. These players have lesser goal-scoring records from an aesthetic point of view, but looking at the assist and involvement in moves leading up to a goal, they normally lead the charts.

Therefore players with vision such as Dennis Bergkamp used the few seconds bought by the extra space to use his vision and pick out a player. The understanding formed between him and his fellow attackers was built either on hard work in training or natural instinct and 360 degrees awareness on movement of his team-mates, through constant turning and twisting of his head to see progression of play. This was highlighted in a quick counterattack by Arsenal in the 2003/04 season at Chelsea, where high pressing forced an error from Makelele, and immediately after Bergkamp had possession and after a look, used his experience and decision-making skills to pick the best option within a few seconds and released Vieira with a wonderful curling pass from the outside of the foot right into the Frenchman’s stride, allowing him to slot home with ease. A wise man did once say the best players have one or two touches on the ball a thousand times during a game. Hidegkuti also used his more direct strike partner Puskas, to run in behind the defence and pull the centre backs away from him, and create space, which he used to take shots on goal.

Most teams use a proven blue-print with a number of players complementing each other in their strike force. Take a look at Arsenal’s options, where no one player is the same, with different attributes, van Persie offers elegance and technical excellence, Eduardo offers a clinical edge, Adebayor offers a awkwardness that is displayed through great stamina and strength, Walcott offers youth and pace, and Bendtner has a self-confidence and a urgency to prove himself. Some teams have ‘direct’ replacements in their squad, such as the Czech Republic national team where Lokvenc directly replaced Koller in their system of play, yet the lack of quality meant the team went out in the group stage at last summer’s World Cup as Lokvenc was later ruled out forming a lack of a reference point in attack. Yet some teams choose to avoid this. Thierry Henry was never a pure goal-scorer along with partner Bergkamp; he was clinical but without his trademark ‘drifting out to the left’ he would have scored more but this would have inhibited his influence on proceedings. In another formation, Barcelona use two supporting playmakers in Messi and Ronaldinho alongside Eto’o but injury to either one of these causes a lack of fluidity in their attack, and this is a facet which the Catalan side rely on. The ‘total football’ on Cruyff, Neeskens and co. never had a true reference point as the tactical master-class of interchanging positions to create space meant there was never one true pure striker, and the names on the team sheet only marked the starting positions of the players as the referee blew the whistle to start the game.

It is perhaps England’s downfall that a lack of a plethora of striking options and inability to change their style of play effectively. The focus of a 4-4-2 is shutting down imagination. When Eriksson used Saachi’s pressing system, the country abandoned any other tactical system meaning an unfortunate series of events could destroy their hopes. It is because of this that different types of strikers cannot thrive in England’s system, which narrow-mindedly requires a poacher and a support striker upon who’s shoulders is the burden of creativity. Now there is a new generation of strikers changing in their style of play as the race in club football progresses to reach the ultimate goal. Glory.

Genius...Unravelling The Mystery

2007-06-29T05:37:00.000-07:00

Footballing genius is defined as extraordinary talent and intellect and in many cases creative power and flair. What causes some players to become footballers and others to fail in trying to do so?

Is it genetic?
You look at clubs taking on close relatives of their own players. For example, when Milan bought Kaka, they also decided to buy his brother Digao, in the hope that Kaka’s technical excellence runs in his sibling’s blood. With Giovanni dos Santos, found in a youth tournament by Barcelona, along comes his apparently more promising brother Jonathan with him. Sometimes, this is only done to appease the parent and seal the deal, as Tomas Rosicky contemplates. His father, a left back in his playing career, also played for Sparta Prague, issued a ultimatum to his former club: “If you want Jiri [Rosicky, Tomas’s older brother], then you have to take my younger son Tomas as well”. This paid off for the club, when both brothers moved in multi-million pound moves to Atletico and Dortmund respectively. Other examples include the three generations of the Maldini family: from Cesare, now Milan Scout, to Paolo himself, to Christian, the elder of Maldini’s two sons and is in Milan’s youth system, for whom the legendary no.3 shirt will be pulled from ‘retirement’ if he makes it to the first team.

This is because there are a number of genes, linked with physical fitness, both muscular and cardiovascular. It is these passed down from generations that can influence the physical fitness of a player. Naturally, it would be impossible to find one gene that can make a person a sportsman or woman. There are probably a number of genes linked to the psychological aspect of the game, with genes linked to natural intelligence and team work and decision making, but these are less obvious as football is a physical game, but nonetheless a team game, so the effect of genes is more subtle. Discovering genius in the future points to more rigorous scouting systems, rather than developments in to gene research, simply due to the cost benefit ratio and the likelihood of any success. But knowing the scientific nature of the Milan-lab, based at ‘Milanello’, the training ground of AC Milan, it is likely that they may be looking at research into genes and whether this develops into a form of scouting tool or injury therapy is anyone’s question.

Tactics, Individual or Team genius?
Naturally, when a club has a very talented player, it is appears most likely that that player will play in the free role, drifting freely in between lines of midfield and attack, learning who to influence the game. It is normally the player that adopts this role who is labelled a genius. And this is common, as the majority of teams in Europe have a focal point, through which the majority of the team’s attacking play is directed, such as Arsenal’s is directed by Cesc Fabregas and as Barcelona’s play is by Deco. This was not the trend in England, until recently, where the majority of attacking play came from the wings, where the ‘flair’ players played, away from the physical and aerial battle that occurred in the middle of the park. This was where players such as Keane and Vieira resided, but now more technically accomplished players such as Fabregas dictate play. This changes the style of play of a team, as Arsenal fans have realised in recent times, with a slower more ‘European’ game-plan being adopted rather than the counterattacking, high pressing game that the ‘invincibles’ played. While the majority of playmakers lie in attacking midfield, there are and were a few, who played in other positions, defying tactical knowledge of the time, and came as great use to their team. These missionaries adapted their technical skills and knowledge to the new role and executed its use with lethal precision. Geniuses such as Johan Cruyff, Franz Beckenbauer, Nandor Hidegkuti and even Andrea Pirlo, who used his previous experience as a striker, to adapt and make plays for Milan from a deep role, where there is more time and space.

While these ‘geniuses’ used new tactics to their effect, it is now the opposition of the attacking player, who is adapting, with better defensive systems, which include man marking the playmaker, or cutting of his supply with pressuring his fellow team-mates. Therefore when a genius is given the ball, he has little time, before he can do something efficient for his team, or lose the ball. Therefore, a genius must adapt and use his flair to beat the system, normally from a moment of inspiration. This does not always work, for a genius must have a strong mentality, and a number of geniuses can often cause conflict due to a clashing of egos. “If Ronaldo, Adriano and Ronaldinho were all at their best for 90 minutes, Brazil would win 23-0”. What Gordon Strachan said may be true, but the reason that Brazil did not win, was due to a lack of correct physical and tactical preparation. The main star, one of the ‘magic quartet’, Ronaldinho, was played out of position, with no freedom to roam and probe and create openings. This was perhaps due to the lack of runs made by the two strikers, both criticised in the build up to the tournament, and both suffering personal problems.

It is for this reason, why it is the team that can maximise the positive output on the field of play rather than vice versa. For example, Frank Rikjaard had a masterstroke by devising a new position for Ronaldinho in 2003/2004 after a missing five matches in October due to a hamstring injury, giving the player a role as a ‘false’ left winger, who could cut in to the box, score goals and drift around to influence proceedings. And it is in this position that Ronaldinho has won two ‘FIFA world-player of the year’ awards in the past three years and become more prolific than ever. It may be tactics that allow a team to use its focal point, but sometimes it is just moments of inspiration. For example, Thierry Henry’s audacious back-heeled finish, having been turned away from goal, and surrounded by a number of Charlton players who were marking him correctly to stop anything normal. But Thierry Henry is not a normal player. Another example is Ronaldinho’s ‘run and see what happens approach’, through his darting dribble into the heart of the Chelsea box, using his raw physical strength to hold off challenges from John Terry among others, before rifling home a shot, which sent Petr Cech the wrong way, thus knocking Chelsea out of the Champions League. Genius is developed as a player grows as experience causes better decision making to occur and a player to become more effective. Technique in all good players is evident, but it is the way it is used and the decision making, both on the pitch and off it is what makes a player great.

True legends are the Dutch 1974 World Cup team, who lead by Johan Cruyff, destroyed opposition, through interchanging positions in what was described as ‘total football’. This prevented any sort of man marking from the opposition, while his vision, of knowing where his team-mates would be also contributed to the cliché of his team being known as ‘the greatest team never to win the cup’. Pele, too had a similar effect in his team in the 1970 World Cup, epitomised by the amazing team play that resulted in Carlos Alberto’s emphatic finish against Italy in the final. A similar move occurred in the 2006 World Cup with Esteban Cambiasso, a defensive midfielder, rounding off a flowing 24-pass move against Serbia & Montenegro. Therefore, genius can also be a team move rather than an individual piece of brilliance.

Culture
The best example of a genius that for all his talent was embroiled in social, health and perhaps fiduciary problems is perhaps the greatest player ever: Diego Maradona. After quarrels with Barcelona’s directors, the player demanded a transfer to SSC Napoli, where he was adored. Genius is also constantly in the spotlight, with the Argentine’s ‘Hand of God’ goal, and later in the 1994 World Cup, he failed a drugs test and was sent home. After his career, he had drug and obesity problems and his residence has fluctuated from various medical clinics to rehabilitation centres. Perhaps the most iconic player of his time, Johan Cruyff, too was in the spotlight, mainly for his footballing talent, from helping ‘Los Cules’ picking apart arch rivals Real Madrid, culminating in a 5-0 thrashing at the Bernabeu, to playing for Ajax, and later arch rivals Feyenoord, leading both clubs to a league and cup double.

Now the greatest players in the world are bought and sold for inflated transfer fees. The Galacticos era at Real Madrid, brought in Figo for £39 million pounds, Zidane for £47 million pounds, Ronaldo for £26 million, among others. The transfer fees for these players, who had the ‘X-Factor’, along with their outlandish wages always kept the genius in the public spotlight. The media-friendly face of the superstars brought in by Florentino Pérez also brought in money from image rights, which the club took in. It is widely believed that in the summer of 2004, Arsenal Invincible Patrick Vieira spurned Real’s advances purely on the fact that due to his lack of marketability, he was offered a lower wage than, for example, David Beckham, who earns millions from a variety of endorsements he has taken aboard. While he was their equal in football terms, the fact that he could not sell shirts meant that he was not deemed worthy of such a high wage. His style of football, which is based more on brute force, rather than finesse, also appears to diminish his marketability.

The North American Soccer League, which formed in 1968 and ran until 1984, had stars such as Pele and Beckenbauer vying against fellow geniuses such as Eusebio. This was the final swansong in most of these players’ careers, with the failure to land the 1986 World Cup in America a major part in its downfall. The majority of the clubs became bankrupt due to the lack of funds and inability to make profit, due to the salaries of the playing staff and low attendance income.

Revolutionaries
The true greats in the game, changed the way it was played, with new tactics, technique and vision. Here are a few legends:

Johan Cruyff is someone who has won 34 titles in his playing and managerial career, He was a general on the pitch, ordering his fellow players around into different positions. As Terence, the Roman poet once wrote ‘fortune favours the brave’, Cruyff, who lead a revolution in the style of football, winning plaudits from all over the world and also owner to a trophy cabinet brimming full of silverware, should know what Terence was talking about. He says he does not regret losing the 1974 World Cup final, stating it made ‘total-football’ more famous than ever. Perhaps trying to recreate its unique style is a great tribute to one of Holland’s greatest players. Only Van Basten and Bergkamp could even come close.

Pele is a name heard in association with the word ‘GOOOOOOOOL’. He should know he’s scored 1281 of them. His technical ability, vision, and his amazing dribbling ability, led Waldemar de Brito, who coached the to-be-legend at a youth club, to tell the Santos directors that Pele, who at the time was 15, would become the greatest player ever. He was certainly true. The player matured over time, winning countless trophies and in 1962, he was announced as a ‘national treasure’ which meant Europe never saw him.

Puskas and Hidegkuti are two halves of a partnership which destroyed England at Wembley. Ferenc Puskas was imprudently written off by the English players as ‘a fat little chap’. Rivalled by Maradona for the award of the greatest left foot in football, his amazing shot, and vision led him to become a great, but as the game becomes more physical, he would not have been able to survive due to his physical condition, which in modern times, would most likely lead him to be criticised as Ronaldo has been in recent times. Nandor Hidegkuti created the half-striker role, where coming in from deep allowed him more time and space to execute his vision with deadly precision. It is because of this that he is a genius.

Franz Beckenbauer: another revolutionary, who changed footballing tactics with his perfection of the role of the ‘libero’. According to Osvalso Ardiles, he was the reason why Cruyff’s Holland failed to win in Germany. A great leader, his technical abilities launched attacks for his teams after clearing up attacks from the opposition through tackling, anticipation, positioning and his exemplary reading of the game.

Alfredo Di Stefano, the original Galactico, and along with a plethora of legends at Los Merengues, he dominated Europe for a period of five years from 1955. He had great strength physically as well as mentally and like most geniuses, he did make his mark in history, being known as the first Total footballer, with his ability to play in any outfield position, before Cruyff had even invented the concept of team total football. He still remains with Real Madrid, now honorary president of the club. The rights to sign the genius widened the gap between the sides who take part in el classico, with the Spanish federation prompting a ban on foreign imports due to this incident. Still all time leading scorer in European football, he averaged almost a goal a game for Real.

Eusebio, another who carried teams on his back to success, it was a pity he could not leave Benfica for a big money move to Inter but again due to political reasons, he was denied a move. A player, who could score freely, from any angle, because he loved football and spent hours after training, harnessing his skills. Rumours of kidnappings by Benfica, to hide him from rival suitors, when he was a youngster arriving from Mozambique, shows how his potential was evident, even before he became a genius.

Maradona made a huge mark in football, through his amazing dribbling ability and unavoidable need to use his hand to score or stop goals as views of the World Cup have found out. Also he was one of the true greats with an outstanding left foot, including Puskas, Riva and Maldini. Genius shines through when the odds are stacked are against one, and Maradona led SSC Napoli to the Serie A title, breaking the monopoly of the richer northern clubs, who usually won it.

Platini had five key attributes: tackling, passing, vision, positioning and goal-scoring. Perhaps his one weakness: his left foot. Luck evaded him in 1982, when Toni Schumacher, a likely idol for Jens Lehmann, was not dismissed after his obvious ‘foul’, which almost certainly stopped France reaching the final. He was perhaps the true great of European football in the 80s.

Zidane is probably the reason why football was called the working man’s ballet. His last great performance was against Brazil in the World Cup of 2006, in his final international tournament. Pervious to this he was on the wane in a Real Madrid side full of overpaid, underachieving Galacticos. The ball was a diamond to Zidane, who could find the thousandth option if you offered him 999. His vision, strength, which helped in shielding the ball, passing, and sheer ability to make players around him seem world class, along with his eternal spotlight in the media, make him a genius.

Henry is gone...Arsenal Lives On

2007-06-27T03:08:00.001-07:00

With reports of Thierry Henry’s impending transfer to Barcelona, for a measly fee of £16 million, while a world class centre forward and Arsenal legend leaves, Darren bent, a relatively inexperienced English striker is being mooted around at £18 million pounds. The proposed inflation in the transfer market has surrounded English clubs buying and selling from one another, with Manchester United spending close to £54 million on three imports from foreign leagues. So where does this leave Arsenal, whose talisman uttered these words: "This is my last contract. It is where I belong", last summer, and now completes a complete turnaround to his statement, completing a significant move in what truly will be the final contract of his career.

The simple fact is that there will never be another Thierry Henry. While there may be young pretenders, with Theo Walcott and Ryan Babel, both biding their time on the wing, before playing in a similar role to Henry. True class is rare and Henry was a legend. Remember each of his 226 Arsenal goals, and relive them with joy. Remember the barnstorming run against Tottenham, and the daring celebration which followed. Remember the outrageous back heeled finish against Charlton. Remember the wonder goal in the Bernabeu. Remember Thierry Henry, the greatest player to ever grace the Premiership, with joy.

And while we dare not crucify him, we must see that there is a growing uncertainty in the direction of Arsenal’s future on and off the pitch. With the news that the board are willing to work with Stan Kroenke after Peter Hillwood’s unnecessarily blunt remarks concerning the American, this appears to point to a possible takeover with David Dein’s possible reinstalllment as Chairman. Arsene Wenger’s future too is uncertain, although this has been a common pattern as the French tactician almost always commits to a new contract at the end of his current one, which prompts media speculation into his future. More worrying is the number of players tied to Wenger’s future with Cesc Fabregas, amongst others, with an uncertain future at the club. Therefore it is vital for the uncertainty in the upper hierarchy of the club to be settled and for the club to continue to add to its illustrious history. While there will be great players and managers, no one person is greater than the club itself.

One problem is due to the inflated transfer fees in players coming over to England, it will be difficult to find a player who can stop the lack of Thierry Henry’s influence in Arsenal’s game being found. Therefore it is vital that Wenger gets the player that he wants to replace Henry, with Patrick Vieira (Wenger failed to buy Julio Baptista as well), not effectively replaced until Fabregas developed into his new type of role dominating games with his ability rather than pure physicality. Therefore here are a number of players who Wenger could have his eye on:

Ryan Babel has been likened to Henry by his national team coach Marco Van Basten, who incidentally was Henry’s idol when he was a young hopeful. The player himself is right footed though plays on the left wing and can also play up front. He is blessed with pace and trickery and so on his day can bamboozle opponents with his skill. He is inconsistent, naturally due to his inexperience and so this is not the kind of player that needs to be added to Arsenal’s strike-force as experience and goal-scoring prowess is needed.

Speaking of goal scoring prowess, Klaas Jan Huntelaar is a striker whose goal-scoring record for teams at different ends of the spectrum in the Dutch league. The player himself is relatively young and again is unproven in a foreign league but his record of 37 goals in 46 Ajax appearances shows his instinct for goal. The player would not provide Thierry Henry’s sheer elegance (he is, in fact, more likened to Ruud van Nistelrooy) or be as involved in the build up, but he would be a ‘fox in the box’, a tag shunned by Arsenal fans, since the signing of Francis Jeffers, who was a spectacular disappointment.

Carlos Tevez is a player that can bring the same level of excitement to fans as Thierry Henry. After a season of acclimatization to the English league in which he still managed to save his club, West Ham United, from relegation, he appears to be ready to step in to the shoes of a legend. Tevez has been a club talisman all his life, carrying Boca juniors and Corinthians on his broad shoulders, the latter almost suffered disciplinary action due to its involvement with MSI, whom Tevez is also associated with. This may put off Wenger as third party ownership deals enter murky water. Also an asking price of close to £32 million pounds and interest from Inter Milan and Real Madrid may mean that Tevez is out of reach due to the superiorly financially backed rivals.

Darren Bent has a eye for goal and is proven in this league, scoring goals for a side of considerably less quality. He is valued at a price greater than what Henry has been sold for, which is not uncommon as the lack of available, quality English players, who are in scare supply. He has clever movement and would love to try his luck at a bigger club but there has been no link and again Wenger may be put off by the price.

Obafemi Martins reportedly has a £13 million pound release clause in his contract at Newcastle, as does strike partner Michael Owen (of £9 million pounds). Martins is a player of blistering pace and has a powerful shot. Wenger has first hand experience of the player, who as a rough 18 year old teenager single-handedly tore apart Arsenal’s defense at home to Inter in 2003. There are doubts about his age (he is thought to be 23), as there are with a number of African players, who lie in the hope of breaking from a life of poverty.

There is also the unlikely Samuel Eto’o (who maintains that his future lies at Barcelona and that he was looking forward to playing with Henry at the Camp Nou. If there was any hope of him coming in what in a swap deal for Henry), Adriano (mooted in a swap deal for Henry and also his motivational problems are also a dilemma), David Trezeguet (thought to be brought in to appease to Henry’s demands for a world-class striker and now his loss of form, and more static movement makes him a inadequate buy, as his day was three years ago) and Dimitar Berbatov (this is impossible but Arsenal fans can only dream that the player will switch from the white of Tottenham to the red and white of Arsenal). A final mention to a possible return of Nicolas Anelka, who is now a reformed character but Wenger has never resigned a former player and also Diego Milito, who seems destined for Zaragoza.

Finally I ask you to trust in Wenger, who without doubt already has a replacement lined up. There is no one bigger than the club and we will prove that once more.

Arsenal's Silva Lining

2007-06-27T03:05:00.000-07:00

Gilberto Aparecido da Silva. Where to begin, one might ask? A player, who is so highly rated by fellow volante and also former Brazil coach Luiz Felipe Scolari, who called him the lynchpin of Brazil’s successful 2002 World Cup campaign, is now the captain of the most illustrious footballing nation known. Yet, he has his critics. Many argue of his importance to the Arsenal and Brazil teams, claiming that the modern game has no need for defensive midfielders. To them I say, look at the evidence.

Arsène Wenger’s pervious teams have been based on counterattacking with a defensive midfielder partnering the midfield enforcer, who was Patrick Vieira. In the unbeaten season it was the Brazilian World Cup winner who was the ‘invisible shield’, intercepting passes and distributing the ball cleanly. Again, the critics claim he is not a great passer although in this pervious season, he was second only to the precocious Cesc Fabregas in the Arsenal team with a pass conversion rate of 82%. Naturally the midfield anchor must be able to defend. Gilberto Silva has perhaps saved his team at least four or five points this year, through his abilities.

Physical prowess. Just look for the amazing 12 yards he made up to dispossess compatriot Ronaldo in a thrilling Champions League encounter last year. He rarely gets injured, with the one exception a career threatening vertebrae injury, in the 2004/5 season, when Arsenal sorely missed his calming presence.

Man marking. Remember the expert marshalling of argentine Juan Roman Riquelme in the tense Champions League semi-final last year in Villarreal, the countless sliding tackles, timed to perfection, the number of dispossessions he undertook and also the interceptions of the playmaker’s passing.

Tactical awareness. The new Arsenal style is more of a passing one, with a patient build-up, as Fabregas dictates teams more often. The lack of true width means the full-backs must attack forward and provide crosses to stretch teams. Imagine Arsenal and Brazil, without the likes of Eboue and also namesake Gilberto (Hertha Berlin full-back), creating less space, due to the lack of running from deep.

Gilberto allows this to happen, providing a balance within the team. He covers positions when his fellow players are out of position, intercepting passes, breaking up possible counterattacking play with his ability. In essence, he provides the attacking base for the team, with the flair players going forward reassured that they are covered. The ability to know where to place one self when defending has been priceless, as his lack of lightning pace is rarely exposed.

Putting the team first, Gilberto is a natural leader; an example is when he threw himself in front of a powerful Michael Essien shot and thus effectively blocking it in the penultimate game of the season. So it was little surprise when ‘Bertie’ (as he is affectionately known by the Arsenal faithful) committed to the club he loves, rather than like many of his team-mates, who instead claimed their futures hinge on Wenger’s future.

Praised by Dunga, the figure point in the art of the anchorman in recent history, he has all the attributes to become a permanent captain for the ‘Gunners’, if Thierry Henry does leave. Naturally being placed in midfield, gives the most access to Silva. He constantly speaks to the younger players surrounding him, guiding them, positioning them correctly. More a quiet captain, than his former midfield partner Patrick Vieira, he is very effective, leading the young ‘Gunners’ to a seven match unbeaten run in the absence of club talisman Henry. His awareness on and off the ball is 360 degrees and because of this, he is so effective, rarely losing possession and the figurehead of the defensive unit, which he leads. And it is because of this that his game is based on great trust from his team mates, rather than individual, breathtaking moves.

Yet in this previous season, the attacking aspect of his game has been revealed, with a personal record of 11 goals in all competitions, his aerial ability, and eerie coolness, when it comes to taking penalties has been even more vital to his team than ever. It is experience that is now showing as he reaches his peak, knowing when to go forward, as he has shown with his pin point cross in the final minute of the inaugural full international at the new Wembley, resulting in a goal, not to forget the header earlier in the very same game, that was wrongly ruled for offside. Now as Edu once helped him, he helps fellow countryman Denilson acclimatise to the country and its style of play, hoping to pass on his experience to the player that one day hopes to succeed him.

Every generation, there is one outstanding attacking player, who for all his talents may lack discipline and patience. In contrast, Gilberto has both of these attributes and he may not sell millions of shirts for his club, but his is more vital to his team than ever. Now all that remains is the elusive Champions league trophy that has long eluded him and Arsenal.

The Generation Game

2007-06-27T02:25:00.001-07:00

When Bojan Krkic scored a poacher’s goal to deny England yet another victory on the international stage recently in the UEFA U17 Euro Championships in Belgium, it makes one wonder how far ahead foreign youth systems are evolving away from England.

Recently, looking at the FA Youth Cup Semi-final between Manchester United and Arsenal at Old Trafford, it was quite clear who the most influential player on the park. Francisco Merida Perez. Not an Englishman, but a Barcelona youth product, who dominated the game with his wide array of passing skills and priceless ability to shield the ball. This begs the question, how far has the league academy system progressed since its inception?

Club teams all over mainland Europe have seen the fruits of their labours at some point over the last few years. Names that immediately spring to mind are Barcelona and Ajax and also the famed Clairefontaine academy in France. With statistics suggesting the game has become more defensive in recent years with the average strike rate being 2.28 goals per game – the lowest yet in the history of the Champions league, passing and ball retention is vital, and England’s stereotypical ‘gung-ho’ approach has been criticised, recent evidence is suggesting that Arsene Wenger’s promise of the academy producing world class talent finally bearing fruit. This involves mixing a few foreign youngsters, namely Nacer Barazite and the precocious Merida, accompanied by an English spine. Proof was evident in the strong cup run which ended when Merida, having played three games for the Spanish U17 team in the previous five games was forced Steve Bould (Arsenal youth team coach) into making a substitution changing the tide of the youth cup semi final second leg with the ‘Gunners’ conceding four times in relatively quick succession.

This method hasn’t been taken very positively by Joan Laporta, who was furious of the methods adopted by English clubs, with Cesc Fabregas and Gerard Pique being ‘poached’ by Arsenal and Manchester United respectively. “We are a club that has invested €7 million in the youth policy and now it causes us a great problem that English clubs pay attention to our youngsters," Barca president Joan Laporta told El Mundo Deportivo. The idea of copying the Spanish league’s use of feeder clubs in lower leagues was supported by managers of the top four sides in the Premiership, but rejected by the upper hierarchy at the Football Association. The potential benefits are great as fans will have noticed through loan spells at lower league sides with Justin Hoyte improving considerably in the more physical Championship. Although, with a whole team of young inexperienced players in a lower league, this could be detrimental to the players’ development as Barcelona B recently discovered, dropping to the fourth tier of Spanish football. This, ironically, lead to calls for their young starlets to be loaned out to leagues of higher quality for experience, in contrast to the potentially great idea that premiership bosses had looked into.

The contrast in styles also affects development, with teams such as Arsenal teaching their youth teams to ‘Joga Bonito’ or play beautiful, following Arsene Wenger’s philosophy, as I witnessed the one touch passing along the ground at their youth cup games, with the long ball only occurring when all possible angles were explored in an attempt to play the ball out to the defence. While in Brazil, where players are discovered as young as the age of five, as football is seen as a way to escape the ‘favelas’ forming around the main cities, the game is developed through playing futsal, where close control and skill are developed. In contrast, in the economically developed European counties, football is only a number of ways to earn a living and with compulsory schooling present too, the early development of players is hindered. The import of foreign players has been helping the English game recover after the three year ban from Europe in the 1980s after the incident in Heysel. Those lost years after a period of English dominance concerning the European Cup affected the English game as Arsene Wenger states: “We have to secure a place in the Champions League” as its experience is vital to youth development.

Another way through which English clubs have to catch up with the foreign youth systems is through the scouting systems, where big European clubs are poaching the best youngsters from relatively unknown places and grouping them together in the hope of finding a gem. In contrast English clubs must find potential stars in a certain area, with any under 16 players having to live within an hour and a half drive in England. This hinders development, for example a promising player in Bristol, would not be allowed to move to a Champions League club, where under the guidance of top youth team coaches, he would blossom. To overcome this ruling by the FA, “if a club wants that player, the club can give the parents artificial work”, as Arsene Wenger states. International rules are even more complex, with FIFA prohibiting international movement of all U18 players, while UEFA allow movement of U16 to U18 players internationally. This bending of the rules is unnecessary, as is the over complication forming loop holes, which clubs such as Barca have exploited, by luring Lionel Messi to the Nou Camp when he was 12, by offering to pay for growth hormone treatment, which his own club could not afford. Recently they were lambasted by FIFA for a similar approach to Messi’s countryman, Erik Lamela, a 12 year old prodigy.

Clubs such as Arsenal and Chelsea have been finding youth talent all across the globe, with players such as Carlos Vela discovered, but the downside of these potential stars is their nationality, with work permits and visas rarely given on account of a lack of appearances for their national teams. In contrast the more relaxed laws in Spain, mean that youth players can be directly transferred into the team and then earning a Spanish passport in the process and free movement within the EU. Due to this, Spanish youngsters have been an attractive proposition to English clubs due to their availability and equally attractive is the promise of a faster route into the first teams of Europe’s greatest clubs. Due to the strict rules concerning international transfers, players from impoverished areas often lie about their age, a problem occuring frequently in Africa, where the infrastructure of youth football has deteriorated so much that players are bought and sold by agents, effectively forming a kind of slave trade, with the families of the youngsters being dried of every penny that they earn in the promise of a potentially false dream. This scheme is morally wrong as it is ethically, with the players that make it to Europe but have been turned down, reluctant to return to their homes for fear of shame.

The lack of a national academy in England has also been blamed for the lack of talent being produced with the majority of the Under 21 players being on the periphery of their club teams. Structure of youth development in different countries has also had an affect on production of potential stars. With Clairefontaine adopting a strategy of normal schooling with technical training after 4pm, whereas in England, the amount of training is limited due to pressures of schoolwork. In contrast, clubs such as Real Madrid, where the scouting network is very efficient, but the efficiency of youth players being transferred to the first team is low as little or no technical training is done until the player becomes 15.

As the youth policy changes with imports being reduced and the emphasis on home-grown players put forward, this is likely to hinder English teams, still improving on the technical accomplishment of their products. But while missionaries such as Arsene Wenger remain in the English game, expect future English teams to succeed on the international stage once more.