Portugal set out to South Africa in pursuit of World Cup glory in the knowledge that the Seleccao's so-called ‘golden generation’ has gone, in the last few tournaments they have come close to major championship glory with the likes of Luis Figo and Rui Costa but Carlos Queiroz will be in optimistic mood given the record of three semi-finals and one final in the last five major tournaments.
In qualifying the Portuguese made hard work of what should have been a straight forward task; Denmark and Sweden were their main rivals, but ones that should have been dispatched. It was Denmark who triumphed in the group, posting a 3-2 victory in Portugal and a 1-1 stalemate in Copenhagen, this meant Queiroz had to contest a play-off with his team. Portugal then dispatched an impressive Bosnia side 2-0 on aggregate to claim their place at the World Cup.
As you would expect Portugal’s main threat will come in the shape of Real Madrid forward and worlds most expensive player Cristiano Ronaldo. The £80 million man will carry the nation’s hopes in South Africa, though it must be noted the Portuguese played a lot better when he wasn’t in the side during the final games of qualifying and the playoff matches.
But can they do without him, he is confident though: "I will try to give the best of me, as I always do, both in Madrid and in the national team. I'm in a great form but I don't do miracles. The important thing is not me, if the team is fine, we can go far and that is the mentality we will have at the World Cup."
Other’s in the squad capable of the unexpected are Manchester United’s winger Nani, who is in explosive form for United, especially during the final months of the season. Simao can produce moments of magic and Danny is a midfield maestro who can unlock defences with inch perfect passes. Pepe of Real Madrid has been passed fit for the tournament despite not playing for six months.
Much rests on coach Carlos Queiroz who is under pressure to perform, lacklustre qualifying made him a prime candidate for the chop but he survived and will lead his team in South Africa, but as usual Portugal are without an out-and-out striker, Liedson is the likely starter but isn’t renowned for his accuracy in front of goal.
Portugal’s Provisional 24 Man World Cup Squad: Eduardo (Sporting de Braga), Daniel Fernandes (Iraklis), Beto (FC Porto); Miguel (Valencia), Ricardo Costa (Lille), Paulo Ferreira (Chelsea), Ricardo Carvalho (Chelsea), Bruno Alves (FC Porto), Rolando (FC Porto), Ze Castro (Deportivo), Pepe (Real Madrid); Fabio Coentrao (SL Benfica), Duda (Malaga), Pedro Mendes (Sporting CP), Tiago (Juventus), Deco (Chelsea), Raul Meireles (FC Porto), Miguel Veloso (Sporting CP), Simao Sabrosa (Atletico Madrid), Danny (Zenit), Nani (Manchester United); Cristiano Ronaldo (Real Madrid), Liedson (Sporting CP), Hugo Almeida (Werder Bremen)
Monday, 31 May 2010
Wednesday, 26 May 2010
Legend of Calcio: Luigi Meroni
Luigi Meroni was born on February 24th 1943 in the sleepy town of Como just north of Milan. He was a magician with the ball, bandy legged, thin but incredibly fast and blessed with immense control of a football. He spent his formative footballing years with local side Como before being transferred to a Genoa side in decline.
At Genoa Meroni was to become an idol, scoring beautiful goals, entertaining the crowds with fantastic dribbling that dazzled defenders. Though in 1963 after only a year in Genoa he was at the centre of a doping case. He failed to attend a drugs test, claiming to forget. The three others who did attend were found to have taken amphetamines and Meroni was banned for five matches as a result.
Moving to Torino in 1964, he cemented his legendary status with some gripping displays. Playing on the right wing, Meroni would terrorise defenders, his pace was phenomenal and he was able to easily glide pass the opposition. He scored one memorable goal at the San Siro against Inter in 1967; he chipped the ball over the despairing keeper that helped Torino defeat Inter who had not been beaten at home for over three years.
His style earned him the nickname, the ‘Purple Butterfly’. He always wore his socks at his ankles and in the days before shin guards he took immense punishment, though not one to feign injury, he always got up and carried on.
Not only a notable presence on the field, his off field antics often got him onto the front and back pages. Interestingly his hair was often a point of note for the masses, fans would often shout at Meroni to cut his hair, he was also labelled a gypsy or tramp because of his long Che Guevara-esque locks.
There were a number of incidents involving his hair; it had become a national obsession. In 1963, he was selected for the Italian B team by manager Edmondo Fabbri, who asked him to cut his hair, he did, but was incensed for being asked to do so. He was again called up by Fabbri, this time for a World Cup qualifying match against Poland in 1965, and again he was asked to cut his hair, he refused, stating in a press conference: “I hope I might play well even with long hair.”
Meroni was flamboyant, he went against the grain, he dressed very odd for the time, he wore massive sunglasses pulled down on his nose, odd hats and garish suits, he even began to design his own clothes. He would also play up to his anarchic image as on one particular occasion he drove into the main square of his hometown with a chicken on a lead. He walked the chicken round the square a couple of times before going to the banks of Lake Como to unsuccessfully dress the innocent chicken in a bathing suit.
During the summer of 1967, Torino’s great rivals Juventus made a move for Meroni, offering 750 million lire, an astronomical sum. The bid was accepted. Torino fans were furious, demonstrating in the streets and outside the president of Torino’s mansion and also that of the Juve owner Gianni Angelli. It is even claimed that the FIAT factory would have gone on strike – The Angelli’s own FIAT – and thus the transfer bid was withdrawn.
The following season Meroni was back in the colours of Torino and in October 1967 the defeated Sampdoria 4-2 at home. While celebrating the victory over Samp, he and his Torino colleague Fabrizio Poletti went to find their respective girlfriends. Meroni was in a buoyant mood, as he just found out he could marry Cristiana Uderstadt, a woman he was deeply in love with and with whom he was in a relationship with for many years.
Both players were crossing the road and while waiting in the central reservation Meroni stepped back to avoid a fast car coming from the right, but as he did so another vehicle was coming from the left. Poletti was hit but only slightly, Meroni was thrown into the air and catapulted onto the other side of the road where he was hit by another onrushing car, dragging him along the ground for a full 50 metres.
The driver of the second vehicle was Attilio Romero, a nineteen-year-old student and Torino fan. He was at the match earlier that day, his favourite player was Meroni, and he had a huge poster of his idol in his bedroom plus a small photo of him in his car. Meroni had broken both his legs, his pelvis, cranium and suffered a collapsed chest.
Luigi Meroni died of his injuries he was only 24 years old.
The funeral was attended by 20,000 people, prisoners from a Turin jail clubbed together to send a wreath and the headline in next days paper read ‘all Turin cried’. Torino’s priest, Don Francesco Ferraudo told the crowd, ‘Gigi was not just a body, muscles and nerves… but also genius, kindness, courage, understanding and generosity.’
As with all Tornio’s tales there is an eerie twist. In 2000 the appointed a new president, his name Attilio Romero… the same Attilio Romero who ran over a club idol.
At Genoa Meroni was to become an idol, scoring beautiful goals, entertaining the crowds with fantastic dribbling that dazzled defenders. Though in 1963 after only a year in Genoa he was at the centre of a doping case. He failed to attend a drugs test, claiming to forget. The three others who did attend were found to have taken amphetamines and Meroni was banned for five matches as a result.
Moving to Torino in 1964, he cemented his legendary status with some gripping displays. Playing on the right wing, Meroni would terrorise defenders, his pace was phenomenal and he was able to easily glide pass the opposition. He scored one memorable goal at the San Siro against Inter in 1967; he chipped the ball over the despairing keeper that helped Torino defeat Inter who had not been beaten at home for over three years.
His style earned him the nickname, the ‘Purple Butterfly’. He always wore his socks at his ankles and in the days before shin guards he took immense punishment, though not one to feign injury, he always got up and carried on.
Not only a notable presence on the field, his off field antics often got him onto the front and back pages. Interestingly his hair was often a point of note for the masses, fans would often shout at Meroni to cut his hair, he was also labelled a gypsy or tramp because of his long Che Guevara-esque locks.
There were a number of incidents involving his hair; it had become a national obsession. In 1963, he was selected for the Italian B team by manager Edmondo Fabbri, who asked him to cut his hair, he did, but was incensed for being asked to do so. He was again called up by Fabbri, this time for a World Cup qualifying match against Poland in 1965, and again he was asked to cut his hair, he refused, stating in a press conference: “I hope I might play well even with long hair.”
Meroni was flamboyant, he went against the grain, he dressed very odd for the time, he wore massive sunglasses pulled down on his nose, odd hats and garish suits, he even began to design his own clothes. He would also play up to his anarchic image as on one particular occasion he drove into the main square of his hometown with a chicken on a lead. He walked the chicken round the square a couple of times before going to the banks of Lake Como to unsuccessfully dress the innocent chicken in a bathing suit.
During the summer of 1967, Torino’s great rivals Juventus made a move for Meroni, offering 750 million lire, an astronomical sum. The bid was accepted. Torino fans were furious, demonstrating in the streets and outside the president of Torino’s mansion and also that of the Juve owner Gianni Angelli. It is even claimed that the FIAT factory would have gone on strike – The Angelli’s own FIAT – and thus the transfer bid was withdrawn.
The following season Meroni was back in the colours of Torino and in October 1967 the defeated Sampdoria 4-2 at home. While celebrating the victory over Samp, he and his Torino colleague Fabrizio Poletti went to find their respective girlfriends. Meroni was in a buoyant mood, as he just found out he could marry Cristiana Uderstadt, a woman he was deeply in love with and with whom he was in a relationship with for many years.
Both players were crossing the road and while waiting in the central reservation Meroni stepped back to avoid a fast car coming from the right, but as he did so another vehicle was coming from the left. Poletti was hit but only slightly, Meroni was thrown into the air and catapulted onto the other side of the road where he was hit by another onrushing car, dragging him along the ground for a full 50 metres.
The driver of the second vehicle was Attilio Romero, a nineteen-year-old student and Torino fan. He was at the match earlier that day, his favourite player was Meroni, and he had a huge poster of his idol in his bedroom plus a small photo of him in his car. Meroni had broken both his legs, his pelvis, cranium and suffered a collapsed chest.
Luigi Meroni died of his injuries he was only 24 years old.
The funeral was attended by 20,000 people, prisoners from a Turin jail clubbed together to send a wreath and the headline in next days paper read ‘all Turin cried’. Torino’s priest, Don Francesco Ferraudo told the crowd, ‘Gigi was not just a body, muscles and nerves… but also genius, kindness, courage, understanding and generosity.’
As with all Tornio’s tales there is an eerie twist. In 2000 the appointed a new president, his name Attilio Romero… the same Attilio Romero who ran over a club idol.
Sampdoria Hire Domenico Di Carlo
Sampdoria were left reeling by the departure of Luigi Del Neri to Juventus, the coach who guided them to Champions League qualification. But the bluecerchaiti have moved quickly in the managerial transfer market and appointed former Chievo boss Domenico Di Carlo.
The deal had been mooted ever since the departure of Del Neri and Samp announced the deal install Di Carlo just one hour after Chievo announced his departure.
Clearly a step up for the tactician but one he could not refuse: "I know I have a lot to do to match the work of Del Neri, but I am not fazed by the challenge.
"I wanted to stay at Chievo but when someone offers you the chance to compete in the Champions League, you can't say no," Di Carlo stated.
"It is a painful choice, but for me also a very important professional choice.
“Personally this is a significant reward as the team will play in the preliminary rounds of the Champions League." He continued.
After two very successful seasons in Verona, he has been tempted away. But his legacy will remain at Chievo just as the man he is replacing in Genoa’s did.
Luigi Del Neri is a legend at Chievo and Di Carlo did a phenomenal job at the helm. It must not be forgotten that in his two years there Chievo were tipped by almost every media pundit, newspaper and expert as relegation certainties, however they remain in Serie A with a relatively poor squad.
The organization of the Flying Donkey’s defence was exemplary; they only conceded 42 goals all season, the best defence in Serie A other than the top four. A feat not to be shirked at.
Taking an unfancied side and overachieving is one thing but how will the tactician fare in the Champions League and in Serie A with a pool of players that are, with all due respect, more talented than those he had to work with at Chievo?
Can he tame Antonio Cassano as Del Neri has? Will he get the best out of a team that has overachieved this season? One thing is for certain, he will need a strong start to the Serie A campaign to keep the doubters from his back.
Lets hope he lasts and may his good work continue.
The deal had been mooted ever since the departure of Del Neri and Samp announced the deal install Di Carlo just one hour after Chievo announced his departure.
Clearly a step up for the tactician but one he could not refuse: "I know I have a lot to do to match the work of Del Neri, but I am not fazed by the challenge.
"I wanted to stay at Chievo but when someone offers you the chance to compete in the Champions League, you can't say no," Di Carlo stated.
"It is a painful choice, but for me also a very important professional choice.
“Personally this is a significant reward as the team will play in the preliminary rounds of the Champions League." He continued.
After two very successful seasons in Verona, he has been tempted away. But his legacy will remain at Chievo just as the man he is replacing in Genoa’s did.
Luigi Del Neri is a legend at Chievo and Di Carlo did a phenomenal job at the helm. It must not be forgotten that in his two years there Chievo were tipped by almost every media pundit, newspaper and expert as relegation certainties, however they remain in Serie A with a relatively poor squad.
The organization of the Flying Donkey’s defence was exemplary; they only conceded 42 goals all season, the best defence in Serie A other than the top four. A feat not to be shirked at.
Taking an unfancied side and overachieving is one thing but how will the tactician fare in the Champions League and in Serie A with a pool of players that are, with all due respect, more talented than those he had to work with at Chievo?
Can he tame Antonio Cassano as Del Neri has? Will he get the best out of a team that has overachieved this season? One thing is for certain, he will need a strong start to the Serie A campaign to keep the doubters from his back.
Lets hope he lasts and may his good work continue.
Monday, 24 May 2010
Diego Alberto Milito: El Principe
Diego Alberto Milito has written himself into the history books of Italian football, the cool, calm and collected Argentinean bagged a brace in the Champions League Final to sink Bayern Munich and take Inter to their first European Cup success for 45 years. Added to the winner he scored in the Coppa Italia Final and his Scudetto clinching goal, it is almost unanimous that Milito is the most dependable and clinical striker anywhere in Europe.
He began his goal scoring exploits with Racing Club in Argentina, where he one the Apertura title in 2001, he then attracted the interest of Genoa, then playing in Serie B. Fifty nine games and Thirty three goals later he was on the move once more, as Genoa were relegated to Serie C1 after an alleged match-fixing scandal. He joined his brother Gabriel at Real Zaragoza in Spain.
The goals never dried up and he ended his first year as Real Zaragoza's top scorer with 16 goals in La Liga. Not long after he was made club captain when Gabriel departed for Barcelona.
Milito was one of the top scorers in the La Liga 2006–07 season. He scored 23 goals, two less than the top goalscorer Ruud van Nistelrooy and three behind European Golden Boot winner Francesco Totti. His goals helped Zaragoza to a sixth place finish in the league.
When Zaragoza were relegated at the end of the 2008 season, Milito chose to move back to Genoa, on 1st September. He even rejected a number of major European clubs and more lucrative contracts to return to il Grifone.
His return sparked an upturn for the oldest club team in Italy, his goals propelled them to the upper echelons of Serie A, he was averaging over one goal every two games. A phenomenal strike rate and in the end came second to Capocannonieri, Zlatan Ibrahimovic in 2009.
Internazionale were watching ‘El Principe’ closely and swooped for the hitman last summer in a deal valued at €22 million, but he did leave Genoa with a heavy heart as he wrote an open letter to the fans, and in it said, “Now we leave each other, I hope with a smile and affection that has become love, at least that's what I feel.” A humble and honorable man, but he had one last crack at the big time and rightly took it.
A break out season at the age of 30 is almost unheard of, but Milito has proved he can score goals at every level. He not only tallied 32 goals in all competitions, it was the importance of these goals that is so special.
An 85th minute winner against Fiorentina in November; scoring in both Milan Derbies, but his contribution in the final furlong was immense. Not to mention the tremendous work-rate and effort he exudes, his performances against Barcelona in the Champions League were immense, scoring what turned out to be the winner, he collapsed with cramp after 60 minutes of the first leg such was his application and willingness to give everything for this side.
He may not be mesmerising like Messi, but if presented with a chance to score he almost always does. Vision, technique timing but most importantly he possesses that rarest of traits only top strikers enjoy, that is composure in front of goal.
A provincial hero has well and truly entered the realms of Calcio royalty.
He began his goal scoring exploits with Racing Club in Argentina, where he one the Apertura title in 2001, he then attracted the interest of Genoa, then playing in Serie B. Fifty nine games and Thirty three goals later he was on the move once more, as Genoa were relegated to Serie C1 after an alleged match-fixing scandal. He joined his brother Gabriel at Real Zaragoza in Spain.
The goals never dried up and he ended his first year as Real Zaragoza's top scorer with 16 goals in La Liga. Not long after he was made club captain when Gabriel departed for Barcelona.
Milito was one of the top scorers in the La Liga 2006–07 season. He scored 23 goals, two less than the top goalscorer Ruud van Nistelrooy and three behind European Golden Boot winner Francesco Totti. His goals helped Zaragoza to a sixth place finish in the league.
When Zaragoza were relegated at the end of the 2008 season, Milito chose to move back to Genoa, on 1st September. He even rejected a number of major European clubs and more lucrative contracts to return to il Grifone.
His return sparked an upturn for the oldest club team in Italy, his goals propelled them to the upper echelons of Serie A, he was averaging over one goal every two games. A phenomenal strike rate and in the end came second to Capocannonieri, Zlatan Ibrahimovic in 2009.
Internazionale were watching ‘El Principe’ closely and swooped for the hitman last summer in a deal valued at €22 million, but he did leave Genoa with a heavy heart as he wrote an open letter to the fans, and in it said, “Now we leave each other, I hope with a smile and affection that has become love, at least that's what I feel.” A humble and honorable man, but he had one last crack at the big time and rightly took it.
A break out season at the age of 30 is almost unheard of, but Milito has proved he can score goals at every level. He not only tallied 32 goals in all competitions, it was the importance of these goals that is so special.
An 85th minute winner against Fiorentina in November; scoring in both Milan Derbies, but his contribution in the final furlong was immense. Not to mention the tremendous work-rate and effort he exudes, his performances against Barcelona in the Champions League were immense, scoring what turned out to be the winner, he collapsed with cramp after 60 minutes of the first leg such was his application and willingness to give everything for this side.
He may not be mesmerising like Messi, but if presented with a chance to score he almost always does. Vision, technique timing but most importantly he possesses that rarest of traits only top strikers enjoy, that is composure in front of goal.
A provincial hero has well and truly entered the realms of Calcio royalty.
Friday, 21 May 2010
Inter vs Bayern Munich: Champions League Final Preview
Jose Mourinho is on the verge of writing himself into Internazionale legend, the Portuguese coach has already captured the Serie A title and Coppa Italia this season, with plans to add the Champions League on Saturday, an unprecedented treble is indeed on the cards and the chance to end 45 years of heartache for the Inter faithful.
Not since Helenio Herrera took Inter to the final of the European Cup in 1967 have Inter graced the penultimate game of Europe’s premier club competition. Il Mago – The Wizard – won back-to-back titles in the 60’s and is regarded as their best ever coach, but if Jose can triumph over Bayern Munich in Madrid, he too will go down in Beneamata folklore.
In Madrid, Jose will go up against his former boss, Louis van Gaal, the Dutch master was in charge of Barcelona and took Mourinho under his wing before he flew the nest to go on and become the worlds most sought after coach.
With victories over CSKA, Chelsea and Barcelona on their way to the final, it can be said they have had a tougher route to Madrid given Bayern faced Fiorentina, Manchester United and Lyon, and have been somewhat fortunate in the decisions they have had in their favour from referees, something even van Gaal has admitted:
"I don't think we are among the best teams in Europe. Inter, Chelsea, Barcelona and Manchester United are the best teams around in Europe, not Bayern," Van Gaal was quoted as saying.
"We are kind of lucky to have made it to the Champions League final. We have reached the final because of some refereeing mistakes that were in our favour. That's why we really should be using cameras to support referees.” He continued.
Inter will likely start with three forwards on the pitch in Goran Pandev, Samuel Eto’o and the goal machine Diego Milito with former Real Madrid starlet Wesley Sneijder linking the play from midfield.
If Javier Zanetti starts, of which there is no question, he will make his 700th appearance for Inter, a great achievement from a magnificent professional and thoroughly nice chap. He will thus move up into midfield as Thiago Motta is suspended and Cristian Chivu slotting in at left-back.
If he scores, Samuel Eto'o would become only the second player in the history of the competition to score in three different European Cup finals after Alfredo Di Stefano.
Bayern Munich are also on course for a treble but will have to do without the suspended Franck Ribery. Though Mark van Bommel has tipped former Real Madrid man, Arjen Robben, to shine:
"The team knows how to play for him and he knows how to play for us. We compliment each other very well, everyone knows what to do in his position and Arjen is working very well. I love having him here,” van Bommel stated.
Aside from Robben, Bastian Schweinsteiger has came into his own this season, dictating the play from the centre of midfield, he is central to the way Bayern play, finally fulfilling the promise of his early years.
One difficulty Inter will have if they decide to ‘park the bus’ is the ability of Bayern’s players to shoot from distance. Robben has already shown earlier in the tournament that he can smash a ball from 30 yards, Hamit Altintop, Mark van Bommel, and Schweinsteiger are no strangers to a long shot either.
One weak spot for Inter to exploit is the Bayern centre-back pairing. Both Manchester United and Fiorentina found plenty of gaps and this is something Mourinho will surely have noticed. Plus they have a solid foundation to build from.
Many are predicting a close encounter with Inter slight favorites, though there are many duels on the pitch and off it that will decide the outcome.
Possible Line-ups
Inter Milan: Julio Cesar, Maicon, Lucio, Samuel, Chivu; Cambiasso, Zanetti, Sneijder; Pandev, Eto'o, Milito.
Bayern Munich: Butt, Lahm, Badstuber, Van Buyten, Contento, Altintop, Van Bommel, Schweinsteiger, Robben, Olic, Muller.
Not since Helenio Herrera took Inter to the final of the European Cup in 1967 have Inter graced the penultimate game of Europe’s premier club competition. Il Mago – The Wizard – won back-to-back titles in the 60’s and is regarded as their best ever coach, but if Jose can triumph over Bayern Munich in Madrid, he too will go down in Beneamata folklore.
In Madrid, Jose will go up against his former boss, Louis van Gaal, the Dutch master was in charge of Barcelona and took Mourinho under his wing before he flew the nest to go on and become the worlds most sought after coach.
With victories over CSKA, Chelsea and Barcelona on their way to the final, it can be said they have had a tougher route to Madrid given Bayern faced Fiorentina, Manchester United and Lyon, and have been somewhat fortunate in the decisions they have had in their favour from referees, something even van Gaal has admitted:
"I don't think we are among the best teams in Europe. Inter, Chelsea, Barcelona and Manchester United are the best teams around in Europe, not Bayern," Van Gaal was quoted as saying.
"We are kind of lucky to have made it to the Champions League final. We have reached the final because of some refereeing mistakes that were in our favour. That's why we really should be using cameras to support referees.” He continued.
Inter will likely start with three forwards on the pitch in Goran Pandev, Samuel Eto’o and the goal machine Diego Milito with former Real Madrid starlet Wesley Sneijder linking the play from midfield.
If Javier Zanetti starts, of which there is no question, he will make his 700th appearance for Inter, a great achievement from a magnificent professional and thoroughly nice chap. He will thus move up into midfield as Thiago Motta is suspended and Cristian Chivu slotting in at left-back.
If he scores, Samuel Eto'o would become only the second player in the history of the competition to score in three different European Cup finals after Alfredo Di Stefano.
Bayern Munich are also on course for a treble but will have to do without the suspended Franck Ribery. Though Mark van Bommel has tipped former Real Madrid man, Arjen Robben, to shine:
"The team knows how to play for him and he knows how to play for us. We compliment each other very well, everyone knows what to do in his position and Arjen is working very well. I love having him here,” van Bommel stated.
Aside from Robben, Bastian Schweinsteiger has came into his own this season, dictating the play from the centre of midfield, he is central to the way Bayern play, finally fulfilling the promise of his early years.
One difficulty Inter will have if they decide to ‘park the bus’ is the ability of Bayern’s players to shoot from distance. Robben has already shown earlier in the tournament that he can smash a ball from 30 yards, Hamit Altintop, Mark van Bommel, and Schweinsteiger are no strangers to a long shot either.
One weak spot for Inter to exploit is the Bayern centre-back pairing. Both Manchester United and Fiorentina found plenty of gaps and this is something Mourinho will surely have noticed. Plus they have a solid foundation to build from.
Many are predicting a close encounter with Inter slight favorites, though there are many duels on the pitch and off it that will decide the outcome.
Possible Line-ups
Inter Milan: Julio Cesar, Maicon, Lucio, Samuel, Chivu; Cambiasso, Zanetti, Sneijder; Pandev, Eto'o, Milito.
Bayern Munich: Butt, Lahm, Badstuber, Van Buyten, Contento, Altintop, Van Bommel, Schweinsteiger, Robben, Olic, Muller.
The Azzurrini... One Year On
The World Cup is ever closer and Azzurri fans are downbeat and disenchanted by Marcelo Lippi for leaving out such talents as Antonio Cassano and Fabrizio Miccoli. There is also concern about the age of some of the squad; many have past their best and the tifosi feel Lippi needs to look to the future instead of 2006.
That said, Italy had a generation of talent on show last year in Sweden at the U21 European Championships. Many of these players would become ineligible for U21 play after last summers tournament, but what has become of this latest crop of Azzurrini?
Goalkeepers
Andrea Consigli, Salvatore Sirigu, Andrea Seculin
Consigli has made the Atalanta jersey his own and despite some good performances he has made a number of errors and will find himself in Serie B next year.
Sirigu on the other hand has excelled this season. He deposed Rubinho in the Palermo goal and has never looked back; he is even in contention for a spot in the Azzurri squad. Has an excellent future ahead of him. Seculin is third choice at Fiorentina.
Defenders
Marco Motta, Marco Andreolli, Domenico Criscito, Lino Marzorati, Andrea Ranocchia, Francesco Pisano, Salvatore Bocchetti
Of these talents, Motta was team captain and standout performer, but he has failed to get regular football at Roma, but when brought on has performed well.
Bocchetti and Criscito have done well at Genoa and are both in the mind of Marcelo Lippi. Criscito in particular may find he is handed the left back slot in South Africa. Ranocchia would be on the plane if he had not been injured.
Pisano has had a season blighted by injury and managed just 7 starts all season.
Marzorati and Andreolli have only been but part players at Cagliari and Roma respectively, with the formers most notable contribution coming as a last minute equalizer against Fulham in the Europa League.
Midfielders
Paolo De Ceglie, Piermario Morosini, Ignazio Abate, Claudio Marchisio, Antonio Candreva, Andrea Poli, Alessio Cerci, Luca Cigarini, Daniele Dessena
The Juventus trio of De Ceglie, Marchisio and Candreva have had a difficult season. But both Marchisio and Candreva can be proud of their efforts and both look to be key players for the future for club and country.
Abate is another who has had a difficult season, played mostly at right-back. Not for lack of effort it seems a future for Italy is not to be had.
Andrea Poli has been a revelation for Sampdoria and was key in their run towards Champions League qualification. His teammate Dessena has endured more of a substitutes role for Samp, but has done well when given the chance.
Cigarini on the other hand has not been a regular starter for Napoli, but has made telling contributions when given the chance. A last minute goal against Milan springs to mind.
Cerci and Morosini have not made an impact at their respective clubs, with the latter not even making a league appearance.
Forwards
Robert Acquafresca, Sebastian Giovinco, Alberto Paloschi, Mario Balotelli
What is left to say about Balotelli? He is mecurial, bad tempered, stroppy but ultimately hugely talented. An Azzurri legend…
Giovinco was touted as the star of this side but the Atomic Ant has endured a stop start campaign. Not receiving enough first team action has and could hamper his development further.
Paloschi is another who has endured an irregular season, he started well at Parma but injury has hampered what promised to be a break out year for the youngster.
He was the focal point in the U21 attack, but failed to impress in Sweden and this season has failed to impress at both Atalanta and Genoa. Unable to step up to the rigours of Serie A.
You need not be worried about the future of La Nazionale, I fully expect many of them to become regular starters in the coming years, maybe a crack at the 2014 World Cup isn’t that unrealistic?
That said, Italy had a generation of talent on show last year in Sweden at the U21 European Championships. Many of these players would become ineligible for U21 play after last summers tournament, but what has become of this latest crop of Azzurrini?
Goalkeepers
Andrea Consigli, Salvatore Sirigu, Andrea Seculin
Consigli has made the Atalanta jersey his own and despite some good performances he has made a number of errors and will find himself in Serie B next year.
Sirigu on the other hand has excelled this season. He deposed Rubinho in the Palermo goal and has never looked back; he is even in contention for a spot in the Azzurri squad. Has an excellent future ahead of him. Seculin is third choice at Fiorentina.
Defenders
Marco Motta, Marco Andreolli, Domenico Criscito, Lino Marzorati, Andrea Ranocchia, Francesco Pisano, Salvatore Bocchetti
Of these talents, Motta was team captain and standout performer, but he has failed to get regular football at Roma, but when brought on has performed well.
Bocchetti and Criscito have done well at Genoa and are both in the mind of Marcelo Lippi. Criscito in particular may find he is handed the left back slot in South Africa. Ranocchia would be on the plane if he had not been injured.
Pisano has had a season blighted by injury and managed just 7 starts all season.
Marzorati and Andreolli have only been but part players at Cagliari and Roma respectively, with the formers most notable contribution coming as a last minute equalizer against Fulham in the Europa League.
Midfielders
Paolo De Ceglie, Piermario Morosini, Ignazio Abate, Claudio Marchisio, Antonio Candreva, Andrea Poli, Alessio Cerci, Luca Cigarini, Daniele Dessena
The Juventus trio of De Ceglie, Marchisio and Candreva have had a difficult season. But both Marchisio and Candreva can be proud of their efforts and both look to be key players for the future for club and country.
Abate is another who has had a difficult season, played mostly at right-back. Not for lack of effort it seems a future for Italy is not to be had.
Andrea Poli has been a revelation for Sampdoria and was key in their run towards Champions League qualification. His teammate Dessena has endured more of a substitutes role for Samp, but has done well when given the chance.
Cigarini on the other hand has not been a regular starter for Napoli, but has made telling contributions when given the chance. A last minute goal against Milan springs to mind.
Cerci and Morosini have not made an impact at their respective clubs, with the latter not even making a league appearance.
Forwards
Robert Acquafresca, Sebastian Giovinco, Alberto Paloschi, Mario Balotelli
What is left to say about Balotelli? He is mecurial, bad tempered, stroppy but ultimately hugely talented. An Azzurri legend…
Giovinco was touted as the star of this side but the Atomic Ant has endured a stop start campaign. Not receiving enough first team action has and could hamper his development further.
Paloschi is another who has endured an irregular season, he started well at Parma but injury has hampered what promised to be a break out year for the youngster.
He was the focal point in the U21 attack, but failed to impress in Sweden and this season has failed to impress at both Atalanta and Genoa. Unable to step up to the rigours of Serie A.
You need not be worried about the future of La Nazionale, I fully expect many of them to become regular starters in the coming years, maybe a crack at the 2014 World Cup isn’t that unrealistic?
Tuesday, 18 May 2010
Leonardo Can Be Proud Of His Achievements With AC Milan
AC Milan playmaker Ronaldinho recently said of coach Leonardo, “It has been beautiful to work with him. He is my friend and I want to see him happy wherever he is.”
As we all know he was not happy and he will not be working with his fellow countryman following their final match against Juventus, a 3-0 victory incidentally in which Ronaldinho bagged a brace. A fitting end to Leonardo’s reign at the San Siro.
The Brazilian leaves behind a side that performed over and above its ability, to which a lot of credit must go to the coach. He leaves with his head held high and his reputation enhanced despite a somewhat imagined Scudetto challenge, Champions League humiliation and disappointing Coppa Italia exit.
Leonardo was a new beginning after the departure of long serving Carlo Ancelotti and the sale of star man Kaka, not to mention the retirement of club icon and legend Paolo Maldini. Leonardo was charged with the colossal task of ushering in this new era at Milanello, he did have his issues during a turbulent few weeks in charge of the AC Milan side.
The rookie had no experience as a coach, no notable signings were made and expectations were low, the Rossoneri faithful had very little hope for the season.
But after putting together a magnificent run of 13 matches unbeaten between October and December, which included a 3-2 win at the Estadio Santiago Bernabéu against the Nuevo Galácticos. Milan were playing some of the best attacking football on the continent.
This resurgence was led by a tactical switch from playing a trequartista to an attacking tridente of Ronaldinho, Marco Borriello and Pato, coupled with the return to form of Alessandro Nesta and the superlative partnership he formed with Thiago Silva.
It can be said the injuries to Nesta and Pato derailed the Rossoneri challenge on all fronts but even still Leo can be very proud of what he has achieved this season.
Third place in Serie A while playing Giuseppe Favalli at centre-back deserves a knighthood. Most of his squad were the wrong side of thirty yet he managed to instill a never say die attitude and demonstrated a very canny tactical brain.
As the season wore on it become clear he was going to leave, rumblings of discontent from the hierarchy and an emanating tension, together with a desire to be close to his family in Brazil may have hastened his decision, but it could be one Silvio Berlusconi regrets.
Leonardo said at a press conference: "We are here to announce that we are parting ways through mutual consent, in a calm and serene manner, just as it has always been in our relationship throughout the years.
"There's nothing surprising. Everything is very clear today, as always. We have arrived at the end. The Champions League aim, which I desired so much, has been achieved and this morning we have decided to make it official. The time to end this adventure has come."
I for one will be sad to see him depart Calcio; he has proved himself to be an intelligent, thoughtful man and not to mention a pretty handy tactician.
Grazie Leo!
As we all know he was not happy and he will not be working with his fellow countryman following their final match against Juventus, a 3-0 victory incidentally in which Ronaldinho bagged a brace. A fitting end to Leonardo’s reign at the San Siro.
The Brazilian leaves behind a side that performed over and above its ability, to which a lot of credit must go to the coach. He leaves with his head held high and his reputation enhanced despite a somewhat imagined Scudetto challenge, Champions League humiliation and disappointing Coppa Italia exit.
Leonardo was a new beginning after the departure of long serving Carlo Ancelotti and the sale of star man Kaka, not to mention the retirement of club icon and legend Paolo Maldini. Leonardo was charged with the colossal task of ushering in this new era at Milanello, he did have his issues during a turbulent few weeks in charge of the AC Milan side.
The rookie had no experience as a coach, no notable signings were made and expectations were low, the Rossoneri faithful had very little hope for the season.
But after putting together a magnificent run of 13 matches unbeaten between October and December, which included a 3-2 win at the Estadio Santiago Bernabéu against the Nuevo Galácticos. Milan were playing some of the best attacking football on the continent.
This resurgence was led by a tactical switch from playing a trequartista to an attacking tridente of Ronaldinho, Marco Borriello and Pato, coupled with the return to form of Alessandro Nesta and the superlative partnership he formed with Thiago Silva.
It can be said the injuries to Nesta and Pato derailed the Rossoneri challenge on all fronts but even still Leo can be very proud of what he has achieved this season.
Third place in Serie A while playing Giuseppe Favalli at centre-back deserves a knighthood. Most of his squad were the wrong side of thirty yet he managed to instill a never say die attitude and demonstrated a very canny tactical brain.
As the season wore on it become clear he was going to leave, rumblings of discontent from the hierarchy and an emanating tension, together with a desire to be close to his family in Brazil may have hastened his decision, but it could be one Silvio Berlusconi regrets.
Leonardo said at a press conference: "We are here to announce that we are parting ways through mutual consent, in a calm and serene manner, just as it has always been in our relationship throughout the years.
"There's nothing surprising. Everything is very clear today, as always. We have arrived at the end. The Champions League aim, which I desired so much, has been achieved and this morning we have decided to make it official. The time to end this adventure has come."
I for one will be sad to see him depart Calcio; he has proved himself to be an intelligent, thoughtful man and not to mention a pretty handy tactician.
Grazie Leo!
The Search For Leonardo's Successor At AC Milan Begins
The search for Leonardo’s successor in the AC Milan hot seat will be one of the summer’s hottest topics in and around the peninsula after the Brazilian left the club by mutual consent following the clash with Juventus at the weekend.
But of the many big name mangers who is most likely to get the Rossoneri hot seat? We weigh up the leading candidates for the role.
Marco van Basten
Former player and legend at Milan, he is a favourite of Silvio Berlusconi and someone with experience of managing at the highest level. He coached the Dutch national side at Euro 2008 where they played some mesmerising football.
He has strong footballing principles and has had a number of spats with players most notably Ruud van Nistelrooy.
Coach at Ajax after the 2008 European Championship, he lasted one season and resigned after failing to gain Champions League qualification.
When asked about the link, he admitted, “Me at Milan? I've read it too and it surely would be a good idea, I'm really close with Milan, with the management and supporters." Though he has since ruled himself out the running, citing an injured ankle.
Mauro Tassotti
Another former player linked with the post. He was the number two, to both Leonardo and Carlo Ancelotti. Having spent 17 years at Milan as a player and having been part of the coaching team since 1997, Tassotti certainly has the experience.
He already has a relationship with the players and will know them well, he will also come relatively cheap, something that will no doubt be a factor in the decision making process.
When asked about his intentions, Tassotti said: “Who wouldn't like to train Milan? Trainers who don't have their coaching badges dream about it, as do those who have it and have been at this club for 30 years. I have been here for 30 years and my relationship with this club will not change.”
Fillippo Galli
We seem to have a recurring theme as yet another former Milan player is in contention for the top job. Not only is Galli a former player, he is the current director of the youth academy and technical assistant to the first team.
A favorite of Adriano Galliani he may not have the coaching experience but he is Milanista and like Tassotti, he will come cheap. A mooted duel role with Tassotti has also been mooted.
His response to the recent speculation is, “I am a professional and a Milanista,” Galli said,
“I live within the Milan environment every single day and I am at the club’s disposal. But this choice is down to the President or the Chief Executive Adriano Galliani.” He continued.
Massimiliano Allegri
The first candidate with no prior links to the club, Allegri worked wonders at provincial Cagliari, led them to a 9th place finish in his first season in charge, despite having limited funds and no truly top-class players.
Despite an indifferent campaign he was eventually given the boot due to ‘distractions’ off the field. Maybe he knew of Leo’s departure before we did.
The Serie A Coach of the Year was expected to leave the Sardinians this summer to further his career, Galliani hinted that Allegri has links with Milan: “He is a Milanista, because he went on tour with us.”
Galliani said, referring to when Allegri was invited to go on a tour of the United States with Milan while playing for Cagliari in the 1990s.
Who gets the job, you decide.
But of the many big name mangers who is most likely to get the Rossoneri hot seat? We weigh up the leading candidates for the role.
Marco van Basten
Former player and legend at Milan, he is a favourite of Silvio Berlusconi and someone with experience of managing at the highest level. He coached the Dutch national side at Euro 2008 where they played some mesmerising football.
He has strong footballing principles and has had a number of spats with players most notably Ruud van Nistelrooy.
Coach at Ajax after the 2008 European Championship, he lasted one season and resigned after failing to gain Champions League qualification.
When asked about the link, he admitted, “Me at Milan? I've read it too and it surely would be a good idea, I'm really close with Milan, with the management and supporters." Though he has since ruled himself out the running, citing an injured ankle.
Mauro Tassotti
Another former player linked with the post. He was the number two, to both Leonardo and Carlo Ancelotti. Having spent 17 years at Milan as a player and having been part of the coaching team since 1997, Tassotti certainly has the experience.
He already has a relationship with the players and will know them well, he will also come relatively cheap, something that will no doubt be a factor in the decision making process.
When asked about his intentions, Tassotti said: “Who wouldn't like to train Milan? Trainers who don't have their coaching badges dream about it, as do those who have it and have been at this club for 30 years. I have been here for 30 years and my relationship with this club will not change.”
Fillippo Galli
We seem to have a recurring theme as yet another former Milan player is in contention for the top job. Not only is Galli a former player, he is the current director of the youth academy and technical assistant to the first team.
A favorite of Adriano Galliani he may not have the coaching experience but he is Milanista and like Tassotti, he will come cheap. A mooted duel role with Tassotti has also been mooted.
His response to the recent speculation is, “I am a professional and a Milanista,” Galli said,
“I live within the Milan environment every single day and I am at the club’s disposal. But this choice is down to the President or the Chief Executive Adriano Galliani.” He continued.
Massimiliano Allegri
The first candidate with no prior links to the club, Allegri worked wonders at provincial Cagliari, led them to a 9th place finish in his first season in charge, despite having limited funds and no truly top-class players.
Despite an indifferent campaign he was eventually given the boot due to ‘distractions’ off the field. Maybe he knew of Leo’s departure before we did.
The Serie A Coach of the Year was expected to leave the Sardinians this summer to further his career, Galliani hinted that Allegri has links with Milan: “He is a Milanista, because he went on tour with us.”
Galliani said, referring to when Allegri was invited to go on a tour of the United States with Milan while playing for Cagliari in the 1990s.
Who gets the job, you decide.
Sunday, 9 May 2010
Manchester United vs Stoke City: Preview
Here we go, it’s crunch time in the Premier League as Manchester United face Stoke City at Old Trafford on the final day of the season. Once last chance to clinch a record breaking 19th League title and 4th in a row, but two teams stand in the way… Chelsea and Stoke.
The Blues lie one point clear of United at the summit of the table and if they win their match at home to Wigan then they will be crowned champions, but if they draw or lose and we overcome our opponents at Old Trafford then United will be crowned champions… Simple.
The Blues lie one point clear of United at the summit of the table and if they win their match at home to Wigan then they will be crowned champions, but if they draw or lose and we overcome our opponents at Old Trafford then United will be crowned champions… Simple.
Sunday, 2 May 2010
Sunderland vs Manchester United: Preview
By the time Manchester United’s visit to Sunderland comes around, the Red Devils will know the task in hand as Liverpool will already have beaten Chelsea – fingers crossed.
The Stadium of Light will prove to be a tough fixture, the talk of Liverpool ‘rolling over’ and Sunderland boss Steve Bruce giving his former club a ‘free ride’ should be put to be straight away as these are professional players who would not throw a game. Both United and Chelsea will be made to work by their respective opponents.
The Stadium of Light will prove to be a tough fixture, the talk of Liverpool ‘rolling over’ and Sunderland boss Steve Bruce giving his former club a ‘free ride’ should be put to be straight away as these are professional players who would not throw a game. Both United and Chelsea will be made to work by their respective opponents.
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