Good day eh? This week in football, Chelsea lose to Corinthians, Ferguson strikes back, and Falcao faces off with Messi.
Well, the hope for Torres is gone. Wasn't that gone a lone time ago?, you might ask. Yea, I probably should've given up, but after scoring 5 goals in 3 games, I thought maybe... just maybe? But no. I should've known. It's one thing to score against Nordsjaelland, Sunderland and Monterrey. But he can't score in the big games. He is not a quality striker. However thin our midfield is, and inexperienced or old our back line is, Torres is the only reason why we aren't at the top of the table, and why today we weren't hoisting the trophy. He needs to go. That is the number one priority in the transfer window. Not to buy Falcao, but to find someone stupid enough to buy Torres. Although buying Falcao would be very nice. More about him latter. I was pleased however, because Benitez is trying David Luiz in the midfield. It makes sense. He provides the long balls that Torres loves, and also brings a more defensive, physical presence. He would be great there. So why didn't he play there today, against a physical Corinthians? Sometimes these decisions that the managers make baffle me.
While I speak of Falcao, I have the t.v. turned to the Atletico and Barca game. Radamael just hit a beautiful header of the post, and I have begun to think of how wonderful he could be at Chelsea. Then I think of how good Torres was at Liverpool. Maybe instead of setting record transfer and wages fees, Abrahomvic should take some advice from my favorite baseball-turned-soccer expert, Billy Beane, and play the so called "Moneyball". Save the expenses and buy a player of just as good quality for half the price. Maybe you won't have a man called the plain "50 million pound man." Not a bad idea uh?
Sunday, December 16, 2012
Saturday, November 17, 2012
Sick Goals
I will not be posting about the premier league weekend today, as I am recovering from a shocking loss by Chelsea at the hands of the traitor Steve Clarke and West Brom. Instead, let's watch some sublime goals.
Zlatan Ibrahimovic. That's all that needs to be said.
See the above post.
I, after watching the above video in total awe, realized how stinking incredible Ronaldinho was, or should I say is, because he does play for Atletico Mineiro. He was both a scorer of great goals and a great goal scorer. Besides that, it's so much fun to watch him show up his opponents, going back to his old futsal and street ball days in Brazil.
It's so much fun just to watch all these classic, career defining goals. And these are just the tip of the iceberg, with each of the persons included on the video have many more great goals that are just waiting to be shown off.
I just had to include a Didier Drogba video. You know me by now.
Never grow up my friends.
The video is good. The background music that sounds like the nyan cat is not good.
Have fun watching the video's.
Have fun watching the video's.
Tuesday, October 30, 2012
Chelsea vs. Manchester United recap
The Blues and Reds again faced off this weekend, with many Chelsea fans coming out of the game with many complaints. The refereeing overshadowed some beautiful goals by Robin Van Persie and Juan Mata; in other places, the scene was repeated, with Luis Suarez robbed of a winner in the Merseyside Darby and QPR losing points because of a clearly offside Mikel Arteta goal.
The game started bad early for Chelsea, with Robin Van Persie scoring a pair of goals withing the first fifteen minutes. The last fifteen minutes of the first half were dominated by Chelsea, and finally Juan Mata drained a beautiful free kick in the 44th minute to half the deficit. Fernando Torres caught a break just seconds later when he came in high on Tom Cleverly, getting only a yellow card. In the 53rd minute, Oscar put a cross back into the box for Ramires to head home the equaliser. Then, in the 63rd minute, the fun, or robbery of Blues fans, began. Ivanovic brought down an on goal Ashley Young, and was sent off for stopping a clear goal scoring opportunity. But that wasn't were the injustice started. When Torres was sent off for his second yellow for diving in the 69th minute. Getting sent off for diving is weak to start, but it was especially weak. It just didn't seem like it could even be worthy for a first yellow card, much less a match ending one. Now, with the West Londoners down two men, the Red Devils took the offensive. Only 6 minutes later, Javier Hernandez redirected a Rafael shot to score what eventually would be the game winner. But the key was that he was offside; he was even behind Petr Cech. The injustice was too great even for me; if there hadn't been other people watching the game with me, I would have turned the t.v. off. The game really ended there, as a 9 mine Chelsea couldn't hope to score against a 11 man United.
Now, a day after the game, Chelsea has filed complaints against referee Mark Clattenburg on the grounds that he racially abused John Obi Mikel and Juan Mata. It may seem like a bunch of vengance, but you can never know. See you next time.
The game started bad early for Chelsea, with Robin Van Persie scoring a pair of goals withing the first fifteen minutes. The last fifteen minutes of the first half were dominated by Chelsea, and finally Juan Mata drained a beautiful free kick in the 44th minute to half the deficit. Fernando Torres caught a break just seconds later when he came in high on Tom Cleverly, getting only a yellow card. In the 53rd minute, Oscar put a cross back into the box for Ramires to head home the equaliser. Then, in the 63rd minute, the fun, or robbery of Blues fans, began. Ivanovic brought down an on goal Ashley Young, and was sent off for stopping a clear goal scoring opportunity. But that wasn't were the injustice started. When Torres was sent off for his second yellow for diving in the 69th minute. Getting sent off for diving is weak to start, but it was especially weak. It just didn't seem like it could even be worthy for a first yellow card, much less a match ending one. Now, with the West Londoners down two men, the Red Devils took the offensive. Only 6 minutes later, Javier Hernandez redirected a Rafael shot to score what eventually would be the game winner. But the key was that he was offside; he was even behind Petr Cech. The injustice was too great even for me; if there hadn't been other people watching the game with me, I would have turned the t.v. off. The game really ended there, as a 9 mine Chelsea couldn't hope to score against a 11 man United.
Now, a day after the game, Chelsea has filed complaints against referee Mark Clattenburg on the grounds that he racially abused John Obi Mikel and Juan Mata. It may seem like a bunch of vengance, but you can never know. See you next time.
Saturday, October 27, 2012
Chelsea v Man U
Tomorrow league leaders Chelsea face off against Manchester United, in a game which will bring excitement and surprise.
The game will be played at Stamford Bridge makes me, as a Chelsea fan, somewhat nervous; not for now, but for later in the year. Indeed it's been a decade since the Red Devils have beaten us at home, but that means later in the season, we will have to play at them. And we will play Man City away during the second half of the season. That makes the title run tough, and I'm not looking forward to it. However, let's look at the now.
Despite a mid week loss to Shaktar Donetsk in the UCL, Chelsea are in good form, and are looking strong coming into the top of the table clash. United have had problems at the back, allowing 11 goals already this season. That won't be good, because the Blues are averaging 3.4 goals a game. Even as biased as I am, Chelsea's gonna win, 3-2.
The game will be played at Stamford Bridge makes me, as a Chelsea fan, somewhat nervous; not for now, but for later in the year. Indeed it's been a decade since the Red Devils have beaten us at home, but that means later in the season, we will have to play at them. And we will play Man City away during the second half of the season. That makes the title run tough, and I'm not looking forward to it. However, let's look at the now.
Despite a mid week loss to Shaktar Donetsk in the UCL, Chelsea are in good form, and are looking strong coming into the top of the table clash. United have had problems at the back, allowing 11 goals already this season. That won't be good, because the Blues are averaging 3.4 goals a game. Even as biased as I am, Chelsea's gonna win, 3-2.
Friday, October 19, 2012
Premier League: Weekend Preview
This weekend in premier league action, Chelsea visits "Three Point Lane" and AVB for a showdown between the two London rivals; Man City travels to the Hawthrones to meet another former Chelsea employee, Steve Clark, and his West Brom side.
Chelsea vs. Tottenham is a second place rivalry. Tottenham's main rivals are Arsenal, and Chelsea doesn't have one rivalry that is globally recognized, although games with United and Arsenal are always heated. That can be said for this London Darby; not a major rivalry, but fierce nonetheless. As of the start of the weekend, Chelsea sits four points atop the table, ahead of both Manchester clubs in second and third, both with fifteen points. Tottenham sits in fifth, with fourteen points. Although the clear choice for this game is Chelsea, it will still be an extremely entertaining and exciting match, for several reasons; one is that these teams both play and have played incredibly open, and White Hart Lane only helps that. Tottenham also have a few scores to settle, after going 32 straight games without beating the Blues, and also taking a 5-1 thrashing in the FA Cup semifinal last year. Despite that, the West Londoners will win, probably 3-1. Chelsea is just too good for me not to have them winning. In the end, 3-1 Chelsea.
Although the defending champions vs the tenth place team from last season may not sound appealing, believe me, the Man City vs West Brom game is not one to miss. It could either be one of those days where City scores 6 and lights up the Baggies defense, or the Hawthrones will prove a true fortress and West Brom will get 1-3 points. Believe me, a win is not out of hand for West Brom. They have taken maximum points at home this season, playing Liverpool, Everton, Reading and QPR (although the Rangers don't really count; that's an easy win for everyone). City could certainly encounter trouble at the stadium, especially since only two goals have been scored there this season; they were, coincidentally, both scored by Rangers. With both key strikers for the Citizens, Carlos Tevez and Sergio Aguero, flying back from Argentina, and probably recovering from jet lag, and David Silva, a key midfielder, possibly injured, the game will be very close.
City 2-West Brom 2
Chelsea vs. Tottenham is a second place rivalry. Tottenham's main rivals are Arsenal, and Chelsea doesn't have one rivalry that is globally recognized, although games with United and Arsenal are always heated. That can be said for this London Darby; not a major rivalry, but fierce nonetheless. As of the start of the weekend, Chelsea sits four points atop the table, ahead of both Manchester clubs in second and third, both with fifteen points. Tottenham sits in fifth, with fourteen points. Although the clear choice for this game is Chelsea, it will still be an extremely entertaining and exciting match, for several reasons; one is that these teams both play and have played incredibly open, and White Hart Lane only helps that. Tottenham also have a few scores to settle, after going 32 straight games without beating the Blues, and also taking a 5-1 thrashing in the FA Cup semifinal last year. Despite that, the West Londoners will win, probably 3-1. Chelsea is just too good for me not to have them winning. In the end, 3-1 Chelsea.
Although the defending champions vs the tenth place team from last season may not sound appealing, believe me, the Man City vs West Brom game is not one to miss. It could either be one of those days where City scores 6 and lights up the Baggies defense, or the Hawthrones will prove a true fortress and West Brom will get 1-3 points. Believe me, a win is not out of hand for West Brom. They have taken maximum points at home this season, playing Liverpool, Everton, Reading and QPR (although the Rangers don't really count; that's an easy win for everyone). City could certainly encounter trouble at the stadium, especially since only two goals have been scored there this season; they were, coincidentally, both scored by Rangers. With both key strikers for the Citizens, Carlos Tevez and Sergio Aguero, flying back from Argentina, and probably recovering from jet lag, and David Silva, a key midfielder, possibly injured, the game will be very close.
City 2-West Brom 2
Monday, October 8, 2012
Clash of the Stars
Messi and Ronaldo once again clashed, with Barca and Madrid squaring off for the first time in this years La Liga. The game was a true thriller, with both stars scoring 2 goals. Although the game ended in a draw, it was really enjoyable to watch.
The Manchester United and Newcastle game again provided controversy, as Demba Ba's header clanged off the post, before Papiss Cisse headed the ball into wht could have surely been a goal, if not for Flabby Hands De Gea's wonder save. The ball was shown never to have fully crossed, and the goal was not allowed. United went on to clinch the game with a wonder strike from Tom Cleverly.
Chelsea thrashed no win Norwich 4-1, with Fernando Torres in somewhat better form. He still is in my opinion not the form that Chelsea need him in to be able to best the Barca's, the Madrid's and the United's of the world.
The Manchester United and Newcastle game again provided controversy, as Demba Ba's header clanged off the post, before Papiss Cisse headed the ball into wht could have surely been a goal, if not for Flabby Hands De Gea's wonder save. The ball was shown never to have fully crossed, and the goal was not allowed. United went on to clinch the game with a wonder strike from Tom Cleverly.
Chelsea thrashed no win Norwich 4-1, with Fernando Torres in somewhat better form. He still is in my opinion not the form that Chelsea need him in to be able to best the Barca's, the Madrid's and the United's of the world.
Friday, September 28, 2012
Cool soccer videos
Hey, just wanted to post a couple of videos that I really liked.
Euro 2008 Highlights:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MHGkkM8gC_0
Chelsea FC Champions League 2012:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LVtmNhWhQWo
World Cup 2010:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ubplonN_7ic&feature=related
Euro 2012:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=psndPgWX2vs
Euro 2008 Highlights:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MHGkkM8gC_0
Chelsea FC Champions League 2012:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LVtmNhWhQWo
World Cup 2010:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ubplonN_7ic&feature=related
Euro 2012:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=psndPgWX2vs
Of racism and Arsene Wenger
Have you ever noticed how easily swayed by the media the FA is? The tabloids and major newspapers have almost complete control over the oldest and most prestigious football governing body in the world. Once again that fact proved true, as many calls for a heavy penalty for the alleged racist John Terry resulted in a 4 game ban for the Chelsea skipper.
I must admit that I have a biased opinion on this topic, because, after all, I am a Chelsea fan. But after reading and listening to multiple sources, it seems as though I am right to express outrage at this injustice. Though t.v. captured the defender and England man mouthing unrepeatable words, a West London Magistrates court cleared him of charges, because no one could verify that they actually HEARD him say the words. Despite this, the FA has taken the matter into it's own hands, giving the controversial football a 4 match ban and a £220,000 fine. The main part that annoys me is that it took the FA almost a whole year, 11 months, to come to this decision. This can only make things worse for the footballing family, after the healing of the Luis Suarez-Patrice Evra row last year. PFA executive chief Gordon Taylor told ESPN that that FA handled it improperly; he says the body allowed the issue to fester. However, all hope is not lost; John Terry as indicated that he might appeal the decision.
Not to continue a redundant topic, but it's hard to avoid a London darby, especially one between Chelsea and Arsenal. Now, I am a Chelsea fan, and yet I do find Arsene Wenger to be one of my favorite people. He is, in my opinion, one of the best, if not the best, managers in the world. For me, the only people who can rival him are Ferguson, Guardiola, perhaps Manicini and Mourhino on a good day. But in any case, the game at the Emirates will be crucial as the 1st and 5th place teams clash. Although Chelsea are again putting a talented team on the field, they are without Didier Drogba, and the Ivorian is the highest scorer in the history of the darby. The game will certainly an entertaining one, and the first true domestic test for Roberto Di Matteo's new look Chelsea. Expect a fire and brimestone welcome to the rigors of Premier League soccer for the Blues.
Result: Arsenal 2-0
I must admit that I have a biased opinion on this topic, because, after all, I am a Chelsea fan. But after reading and listening to multiple sources, it seems as though I am right to express outrage at this injustice. Though t.v. captured the defender and England man mouthing unrepeatable words, a West London Magistrates court cleared him of charges, because no one could verify that they actually HEARD him say the words. Despite this, the FA has taken the matter into it's own hands, giving the controversial football a 4 match ban and a £220,000 fine. The main part that annoys me is that it took the FA almost a whole year, 11 months, to come to this decision. This can only make things worse for the footballing family, after the healing of the Luis Suarez-Patrice Evra row last year. PFA executive chief Gordon Taylor told ESPN that that FA handled it improperly; he says the body allowed the issue to fester. However, all hope is not lost; John Terry as indicated that he might appeal the decision.
Not to continue a redundant topic, but it's hard to avoid a London darby, especially one between Chelsea and Arsenal. Now, I am a Chelsea fan, and yet I do find Arsene Wenger to be one of my favorite people. He is, in my opinion, one of the best, if not the best, managers in the world. For me, the only people who can rival him are Ferguson, Guardiola, perhaps Manicini and Mourhino on a good day. But in any case, the game at the Emirates will be crucial as the 1st and 5th place teams clash. Although Chelsea are again putting a talented team on the field, they are without Didier Drogba, and the Ivorian is the highest scorer in the history of the darby. The game will certainly an entertaining one, and the first true domestic test for Roberto Di Matteo's new look Chelsea. Expect a fire and brimestone welcome to the rigors of Premier League soccer for the Blues.
Result: Arsenal 2-0
Tuesday, August 28, 2012
We the Pharaohs
American filmmaker Jeffery Plunket is making a documentary following American coach Bob Bradley as he coaches the Egyptian National Team. The documentary, called We The Pharaohs, is about the teams qualification for the 2014 World Cup, but also about the recent uprising and riots in the country. The Pharaohs haven't qualified for a World Cup in 20 years.
Link to original Grantland article:
http://www.grantland.com/blog/the-triangle/post/_/id/35645/we-the-pharaohs-a-new-doc-chronicling-bob-bradleys-time-in-egypy
Link to website:
http://wethepharaohs.com/
Link to original Grantland article:
http://www.grantland.com/blog/the-triangle/post/_/id/35645/we-the-pharaohs-a-new-doc-chronicling-bob-bradleys-time-in-egypy
Link to website:
http://wethepharaohs.com/
Monday, August 27, 2012
Breaking down the "New Look" Chelsea
This summer Roberto Di Matteo has rebuilt Chelsea after the departure of key forward Didier Drogba. Indeed, that one man's departure has forced the Swiss to completely redesign the West London club. Of course, that one man was the main reason why Chelsea won the Champions League this year. But in any case, the team has been overhauled to play a new style, one that fits Eden Hazard and Juan Mata's skills.
The old Chelsea, the one of Didier Drogba and Nicholas Anelka and Michael Ballack, was a team that combined brutish strength with delicate finesse. The team had a strong aerial threat, and often scored on counters or of long balls. A perfect example of this is the 2012 FA Cup semi-final between Chelsea and Tottenham. The teams just gunned balls from one end of the pitch to the other, only to get the ball back when the opposition repeated the feat. The team capitalized on poor officiating and free kicks and lucky chances to thrash their London rivals 5-1. This is the team of old.
The new look Chelsea, on the other hand, is full of youth, energy and playmakers. Between Oscar, Hazard and Marko Marin, Roman Abrhamovich seems to want to buy every number 10 in the world. The youth also works against them; it's hard to see how any back line can consist of the aging Ashley Cole, the brash David Luiz, the injury prone Gary Cahill, and the not-a-right back Branislav Ivanovic. David Luiz shows this often, wanting to prove his should be playing at centre attacking mid not centre back. His dribbling runs outside the box need to stop for the good of all at Stamford Bridge. Despite this, the defense and offense seem to have cohesion in the attacking moves. Hazard and Mata seem to takes turns depending on what day it is as to who gets to play in the centre. And Fernando Torres. Fernando Torres. The 50 million pound man. This whole team is built around that one man. He is the reason why this Chelsea team will win or lose. Not to put any more pressure on you, El Nino.
The new look Chelsea, on the other hand, is full of youth, energy and playmakers. Between Oscar, Hazard and Marko Marin, Roman Abrhamovich seems to want to buy every number 10 in the world. The youth also works against them; it's hard to see how any back line can consist of the aging Ashley Cole, the brash David Luiz, the injury prone Gary Cahill, and the not-a-right back Branislav Ivanovic. David Luiz shows this often, wanting to prove his should be playing at centre attacking mid not centre back. His dribbling runs outside the box need to stop for the good of all at Stamford Bridge. Despite this, the defense and offense seem to have cohesion in the attacking moves. Hazard and Mata seem to takes turns depending on what day it is as to who gets to play in the centre. And Fernando Torres. Fernando Torres. The 50 million pound man. This whole team is built around that one man. He is the reason why this Chelsea team will win or lose. Not to put any more pressure on you, El Nino.
Premier League Review: Week 2
In Premiership action this week, Chelsea beat both Reading and Newcastle at home by a score of 4-2 and 2-0, Manchester City and Liverpool drew 2-2, and Manchester United faced a scared at home against Fulham.
Chelsea faced off against Reading on Wednesday. The game was a thriller, with the Blues having to make a second half comeback. Eden Hazard again drew a penalty, which Frank Lampard again powered past the keeper. Despite the early lead, the first half was all reading. A short, hard cross from Garath McCleary was headed into the goal by Pavel Pogrebynak from about 14 yards out. It was a real stunner, and Chelsea wasn't able to recover from it for a while. After John Terry cynically brought down Jobi McAnoff near the corner of the box, Danny Guthrie hit a free kick into Petr Cech's body, but the Blues keeper wasn't able to hold it and the ball went into the back of the net. After the break, despite dominating possession, the Blues just couldn't get the ball past Adam Federici. Finally, after Daniel Sturridge replaced John Obi Mikel, Gary Cahill of all people hit the ball from about 40 yards out to draw the Londoners to parity. Then came the most controversial moment of the season yet. Juan Mata set up Ashley Cole in the box, after which he hit a tight ball to a clearly offside Fernando Torres. Even Torres knew that he was offside, just barely tapping the ball into the back of the net, despite being two yards away. Although the Reading players didn't have their arms up to alert the linesman, that is no excuse; it's a straightforward call. Branislav Ivanovic scored off an open goal breakaway. Eden Hazard again connected with the Serbian for his second goal. Final score: Chelsea 4-2 Reading.
Manchester United was down early at home to Fulham after a Damien Duff goal. But RVP soon equalised and Shinji Kagawa and Rafael da Silva goals made it 3-1 before half. A Nemanja Vidic own goal in the 64th minute began a long period of Fulham threatning. The West Londoners never eventually did equalise, but Wayne Rooney suffered a gash on his right leg that will sideline him for a month.
Chelsea stayed at Stamford Bridge on Saturday to beat Newcastle 2-0. Fernando Torres drew a penalty in the 22nd minute, and Eden Hazard put it away for his first goal of the season. Then, late in the second half, Hazard supplied Fernando Torres with a pass that the Spainard put away into the top corner. The game ended that way, 2-0.
Many people are now calling Eden Hazard the most influential player this year has seen yet. It is not undeserved; he has had a hand in 7 of Chelsea's 8 goals, drawing 2 penalties, 4 assists and a goal. Perhaps the 32 million pounds were worth it, eh?
Chelsea faced off against Reading on Wednesday. The game was a thriller, with the Blues having to make a second half comeback. Eden Hazard again drew a penalty, which Frank Lampard again powered past the keeper. Despite the early lead, the first half was all reading. A short, hard cross from Garath McCleary was headed into the goal by Pavel Pogrebynak from about 14 yards out. It was a real stunner, and Chelsea wasn't able to recover from it for a while. After John Terry cynically brought down Jobi McAnoff near the corner of the box, Danny Guthrie hit a free kick into Petr Cech's body, but the Blues keeper wasn't able to hold it and the ball went into the back of the net. After the break, despite dominating possession, the Blues just couldn't get the ball past Adam Federici. Finally, after Daniel Sturridge replaced John Obi Mikel, Gary Cahill of all people hit the ball from about 40 yards out to draw the Londoners to parity. Then came the most controversial moment of the season yet. Juan Mata set up Ashley Cole in the box, after which he hit a tight ball to a clearly offside Fernando Torres. Even Torres knew that he was offside, just barely tapping the ball into the back of the net, despite being two yards away. Although the Reading players didn't have their arms up to alert the linesman, that is no excuse; it's a straightforward call. Branislav Ivanovic scored off an open goal breakaway. Eden Hazard again connected with the Serbian for his second goal. Final score: Chelsea 4-2 Reading.
Manchester United was down early at home to Fulham after a Damien Duff goal. But RVP soon equalised and Shinji Kagawa and Rafael da Silva goals made it 3-1 before half. A Nemanja Vidic own goal in the 64th minute began a long period of Fulham threatning. The West Londoners never eventually did equalise, but Wayne Rooney suffered a gash on his right leg that will sideline him for a month.
Chelsea stayed at Stamford Bridge on Saturday to beat Newcastle 2-0. Fernando Torres drew a penalty in the 22nd minute, and Eden Hazard put it away for his first goal of the season. Then, late in the second half, Hazard supplied Fernando Torres with a pass that the Spainard put away into the top corner. The game ended that way, 2-0.
Many people are now calling Eden Hazard the most influential player this year has seen yet. It is not undeserved; he has had a hand in 7 of Chelsea's 8 goals, drawing 2 penalties, 4 assists and a goal. Perhaps the 32 million pounds were worth it, eh?
Tuesday, August 7, 2012
BPL Season Preview: Top 6
The Barclay's Premier League season is set to start in just over a week and a half. I'll tell you my top six, why and even some teams to watch.
Top 6: Manchester City, Chelsea, Manchester United, Arsenal, Tottenham, and Liverpool.
1.) Manchester City
The Citizens captured the League title last year, and look poised to do so again. Sergio Aguero led the team with 24 goals, while David Silva contributed a team high 15 assists. City's attack should be as sharp as ever, perhaps even sharper with David Silva returning from getting a gold medal with Spain at Euro 2012. Vincent Kompany and Joe Hart will be keys for Man City in defense and goal. Also key for City will be how well they play on the road; all five of their losses came away from the Ethiad last season. If Carlos Tevez also wants to play for the Citizens, they should have no trouble retaining the title.
Final record and place: 31-4-3, (wins, draws, losses) 97 points, 1st place.
2.) Chelsea
The Blues finished sixth in the league last year, despite winning the Champions League and FA Cup. New signing Eden Hazard will be key to the Londoners attack this year. Also joining him are midfielders Marko Marin, Oscar and Hazard's younger brother Thorgan. With Didier Drogba leaving for China, it would seem that Daniel Sturridge, who co-lead the team in goals, scoring 11, last term, would be a first choice. However, club officials have assured the streaky and inconsistent Fernando Torres the starting role, leaving both Sturridge and Belgian Romelu Lukaku in the air. Frank Lampard will anchor the midfield, while John Terry, who hopes to avoid a possible ban from the FA, will hope to keep his most likely defense partners in David Luiz and Gary Cahill under control. Cesar Azpilicueta and Victor Moses are also rumored to be joining the Blues. Chelsea should be the main threat to Manchester City's title defense.
Final record and place: 28-6-4, 90 points, 2nd place.
3.) Manchester United
The Red Devils experienced true heartbreak on the final day of the season, watching helplessly as City engineered a incredible stoppage time comeback. United has now signed Shinji Kagawa from Borussia Dortmund to bolster their midfield. They also have a plethora of scoring options in forwards Wayne Rooney, Javier Hernandez, Dimitir Berbatov and Danny Welbeck, and also midfielders Nani and Ashley Young. The Red Devils hope for defenders Nemanja Vidic and Johnny Evans to be back for the start of the season, but willl probably have to rely on aging Rio Ferdinand and Chris Smalling.
Final record and place: 28-4-6, 88 points, 3rd place.
4.) Arsenal
Despite Robin van Persie announcing he will leave at the end of his contract this year, I believe Arsene Wenger has some magic left in him. Wenger has signed Lukas Podolski from Cologne. Podolski has scored 44 goals in 101 apperances for Germany. The French wizard hopes he can replicate that type of scoring.
5.) Tottenham
Spurs have been chasing Wenger's Arsenal for years, and they look set to finish behind again. Gylif Sigurdsson and Jan Vertoghan are new signing by new coach Andre Villas-Boas. Can AVB avoid a repeat of his miserable time at Chelsea? Perhaps not.
6.) Liverpool
Brendan Rogers has been hired to replace the loved but now sacked Kenny Daglish. Rogers tried to secure Sigurdsson, who had been on loan at Swansea when he was coaching there. He failed, but has successful insured a longer contract for Luis Suarez and brought in striker Fabio Borini to replace the departed Dirk Kuyt. Liverpool still have a way to go though, before they challenge for their first premier league title.
Teams to watch:
Newcastle punched far above their weight last year, and Alan Pardew will be trying to keep that going. Swansea have replaced Brendan Rogers with Danish legend Michael Laudrup. The Swans will hope to keep their Barcelona "Tiki-Taka" style going.
Top 6: Manchester City, Chelsea, Manchester United, Arsenal, Tottenham, and Liverpool.
1.) Manchester City
The Citizens captured the League title last year, and look poised to do so again. Sergio Aguero led the team with 24 goals, while David Silva contributed a team high 15 assists. City's attack should be as sharp as ever, perhaps even sharper with David Silva returning from getting a gold medal with Spain at Euro 2012. Vincent Kompany and Joe Hart will be keys for Man City in defense and goal. Also key for City will be how well they play on the road; all five of their losses came away from the Ethiad last season. If Carlos Tevez also wants to play for the Citizens, they should have no trouble retaining the title.
Final record and place: 31-4-3, (wins, draws, losses) 97 points, 1st place.
2.) Chelsea
The Blues finished sixth in the league last year, despite winning the Champions League and FA Cup. New signing Eden Hazard will be key to the Londoners attack this year. Also joining him are midfielders Marko Marin, Oscar and Hazard's younger brother Thorgan. With Didier Drogba leaving for China, it would seem that Daniel Sturridge, who co-lead the team in goals, scoring 11, last term, would be a first choice. However, club officials have assured the streaky and inconsistent Fernando Torres the starting role, leaving both Sturridge and Belgian Romelu Lukaku in the air. Frank Lampard will anchor the midfield, while John Terry, who hopes to avoid a possible ban from the FA, will hope to keep his most likely defense partners in David Luiz and Gary Cahill under control. Cesar Azpilicueta and Victor Moses are also rumored to be joining the Blues. Chelsea should be the main threat to Manchester City's title defense.
Final record and place: 28-6-4, 90 points, 2nd place.
3.) Manchester United
The Red Devils experienced true heartbreak on the final day of the season, watching helplessly as City engineered a incredible stoppage time comeback. United has now signed Shinji Kagawa from Borussia Dortmund to bolster their midfield. They also have a plethora of scoring options in forwards Wayne Rooney, Javier Hernandez, Dimitir Berbatov and Danny Welbeck, and also midfielders Nani and Ashley Young. The Red Devils hope for defenders Nemanja Vidic and Johnny Evans to be back for the start of the season, but willl probably have to rely on aging Rio Ferdinand and Chris Smalling.
Final record and place: 28-4-6, 88 points, 3rd place.
4.) Arsenal
Despite Robin van Persie announcing he will leave at the end of his contract this year, I believe Arsene Wenger has some magic left in him. Wenger has signed Lukas Podolski from Cologne. Podolski has scored 44 goals in 101 apperances for Germany. The French wizard hopes he can replicate that type of scoring.
5.) Tottenham
Spurs have been chasing Wenger's Arsenal for years, and they look set to finish behind again. Gylif Sigurdsson and Jan Vertoghan are new signing by new coach Andre Villas-Boas. Can AVB avoid a repeat of his miserable time at Chelsea? Perhaps not.
6.) Liverpool
Brendan Rogers has been hired to replace the loved but now sacked Kenny Daglish. Rogers tried to secure Sigurdsson, who had been on loan at Swansea when he was coaching there. He failed, but has successful insured a longer contract for Luis Suarez and brought in striker Fabio Borini to replace the departed Dirk Kuyt. Liverpool still have a way to go though, before they challenge for their first premier league title.
Teams to watch:
Newcastle punched far above their weight last year, and Alan Pardew will be trying to keep that going. Swansea have replaced Brendan Rogers with Danish legend Michael Laudrup. The Swans will hope to keep their Barcelona "Tiki-Taka" style going.
Thursday, July 19, 2012
New Blues
Chelsea soundly beat the Seattle Sounders yesterday by a score of 4-2. New boys Eden Hazard and Marko Marin each scored, while Romelu Lukaku picked 2 up himself.
The Blues future showed itself in fine fashion last night. Di Matteo started Hazard, Markin and Lukaku, as well as Nathaniel Chalobah, Kevin de Bruyne and Gael Kakuta. The result was lovely for Chelsea fans. Marin and Hazard showed themselves to be quite superb. The speed with which Marin and Harzard attacked and counter attacked was frightening. 3 of the Blues goals came off turnovers from the Sounders; such quick counters will put the Blues in good positions this year in the premier league. Think of the blues potential lineup. Di Matteo will have them line up in a 4-4-3. Bosingwa, Terry, Cahill and Cole will hold forwards in check. Ramires, Lampard and Marin will control the pace and play the right balls for the forwards. Mata and Hazard will take up the wings, putting crosses into the striker. Here is where a dilemma begins. Chelsea holds a plethora of attacking options. Torres, Sturridge and Lukaku all will contest for the spot, but the Blues have allegedly assured Torres the starting role. However, Abrahmovich has been chasing after Porto striker Hulk; his buying will really complicate things. Even with the striking problem, the Blues should be fine; Di Matteo looks rather Mourhino-like in handling players. After all, more is better.
Saturday, July 7, 2012
Swan City
As you may have noticed, many if not all of my posts have been about Chelsea FC. That is because I am a fan of Chelsea; but, I would like to apologize to those of you who are not explicitly interested in Chelsea. I am now becoming a fan of a different team; Swansea City. Several things attracted me to the Swans. 1.) Swansea plays some of the best attacking football in England. They pass like Barcelona, using triangle passes to silence opponents. 2.) Swansea is the first Welsh team to play in the Barclays Premier League ever. 3.) I like how Swansea seems to be filled with young players. Those teams, like the Tampa Bay Rays in Major League Baseball and the Oklahoma City Thunder in the National Basketball League, attract me. And finally, and this reason is truthfully the biggest, 4.) The Swans have probably the my favorite jersies in the whole league. The white and gold looks great.
ESPN Soccernet has a blogger who follows Swansea and Swansea alone; I think he is quite good, and found something especially cool. He analyzed the whole of Swansea's year, and did a good job of it. Here is the link, http://blogs.espncricinfo.com/swansea/, so you can enjoy that. I'll be back with more next time.
ESPN Soccernet has a blogger who follows Swansea and Swansea alone; I think he is quite good, and found something especially cool. He analyzed the whole of Swansea's year, and did a good job of it. Here is the link, http://blogs.espncricinfo.com/swansea/, so you can enjoy that. I'll be back with more next time.
Monday, July 2, 2012
Spain wins... again.
Spain thrashed Italy 4-0 to win their 2nd consecutive Euro championship, and their 3rd straight major championship victory, a record. The arguments have begun to say that Spain is the greatest international side ever to play.
The final score line was deceiving; the game, to me, will always be 2-0. The final Torres and Mata goals were a little jaded, since the Italians were playing with ten men, most of whom were demoralized and out of energy. Spain really showed why they haven't lost in 40 some matches; it's so hard to beat them. They pass so well, even if they don't score after 30, 40, even 60 minutes, they will eventually score, because Xavi and Iniesta and Xabi Alonso and others dissect the defense. The only way to stop them is to put all your men behind the ball and play for penalties/draw. This isn't a secret; Chelsea showed the whole world this in beating Barca in that infamous two leg UCL semifinal. It's just impossibly hard to execute this plan that many teams can't win. Spain dominated the whole game, obviously, but they astounded the audience with beautiful play. The first goal showcased a beautiful through ball from Iniesta to Cesc Fabergas, who crossed the ball from the touch line to a flying David Silva. Silva headed the ball past Gianluigi Buffon. Jordi Alba, Spain's left back, made it two when he made a run past Xavi, recieved the ball then hit past Buffon. Italy still pushed to make a comeback, and looked like it until Thaigo Motta, who had been brought on as the Azzuri's last sub, was taken off with an injury. This brought Italy to ten men, and ended the game. Fernando Torres scored, and then fed Juan Mata, his Chelsea teammate, with an assist, which clinched him, not Mario Gomez, not Mario Balotelli, the Golden Boot for the tournament. That seems a little wrong doesn't it?
So then, here is the question; is this Spain team, the one that has made the run, the greatest ever? My answer is, yes. This is a record for a reason. No other team has done this. Not 1970 Brazil or early 70's West Germany. Spain plays the best football, despite being called boring, I have ever seen. They are without flaw in my mind. I can't wait to see them with a healthy, albeit older, David Villa at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil. Watching this Spain team is watching history.
Friday, June 29, 2012
Euro 2012 Final Preview
Italy and Spain, two world class powerhouses, will square off in Euro 2012's final, after Italy upset favorites Germany 2-1, with "Super Mario", Mario Balotelli, scoring twice for the Azzuri. Spain knocked Portugal out on penalties, winning 4-2.
Spain played messy soccer for 120 minutes. The chances were pretty even for both sides. Portugal had the upper hand for most of the first half, with Spain only one really good chance the whole half, when Negredo put the ball back into the box, but Arbeloa blasted the ball of the bar. The second half produced some dull play, with only a few real chances. Spain dominated extra time, but Riu Patricio had other ideas; Spain couldn't put the ball past him. Now we hit the penalties. Xabi Alonso and Joao Moutinho each had their penalties saved, and then Iniesta, Pepe, Pique, Nani and Sergio Ramos all put their shot past the keepers. Now Bruno Alves, who was forced to wait to kick after Nani replaced him in the walk up, drove his shot straight into the bar, leaving Cesc Fabergas the chance, which he took, to put La Rojas through.
Germany had been dominating the first twenty minutes when suddenly the Italians put a couple shots in on goal, finally resulting in Antonio Cassano turning past Mats Hummels and crossing the shot to Super Mario, Mario Balotelli, who took advantage Holger Badstubber's bad defense to head the ball past Manuel Neuer and score for the Azzuri. 16 minutes later he had doubled his delight, scoring off a counter attack that left the ragged Germans with only Phillip Lahm in a defensive position. Balotelli finished off the play with a strike that brought Neuer to his knees. Balotelli ripped his shirt off, so as to say "I know what I'm doing, and a yellow card doesn't hurt me." Mario was yellow carded for it, which led to him eventually being substituted off. In the second half, the Germans dominated again for the first twenty minutes, before the Italians again put some shots on goal, including several that nearly got past Manuel Neuer. Finally, in the 92nd minute, an Italian handball gave Mesut Ozil the chance, which he took, to put the ball past Gianluigi Buffon from the penalty spot. A frenzied two minutes then concluded the game.
A question must now be asked, and that is, can the Italians actually beat Spain? There is a possibility. Both are group C teams, and played each other in their first games. Though much has changed since that 1-1 draw, the outcome could be the same. Don't be surprised if penalties come into the mix.
My prediction: Spain wins 4-3 on penalties, drawing 1-1 in regular time.
Spain played messy soccer for 120 minutes. The chances were pretty even for both sides. Portugal had the upper hand for most of the first half, with Spain only one really good chance the whole half, when Negredo put the ball back into the box, but Arbeloa blasted the ball of the bar. The second half produced some dull play, with only a few real chances. Spain dominated extra time, but Riu Patricio had other ideas; Spain couldn't put the ball past him. Now we hit the penalties. Xabi Alonso and Joao Moutinho each had their penalties saved, and then Iniesta, Pepe, Pique, Nani and Sergio Ramos all put their shot past the keepers. Now Bruno Alves, who was forced to wait to kick after Nani replaced him in the walk up, drove his shot straight into the bar, leaving Cesc Fabergas the chance, which he took, to put La Rojas through.
Germany had been dominating the first twenty minutes when suddenly the Italians put a couple shots in on goal, finally resulting in Antonio Cassano turning past Mats Hummels and crossing the shot to Super Mario, Mario Balotelli, who took advantage Holger Badstubber's bad defense to head the ball past Manuel Neuer and score for the Azzuri. 16 minutes later he had doubled his delight, scoring off a counter attack that left the ragged Germans with only Phillip Lahm in a defensive position. Balotelli finished off the play with a strike that brought Neuer to his knees. Balotelli ripped his shirt off, so as to say "I know what I'm doing, and a yellow card doesn't hurt me." Mario was yellow carded for it, which led to him eventually being substituted off. In the second half, the Germans dominated again for the first twenty minutes, before the Italians again put some shots on goal, including several that nearly got past Manuel Neuer. Finally, in the 92nd minute, an Italian handball gave Mesut Ozil the chance, which he took, to put the ball past Gianluigi Buffon from the penalty spot. A frenzied two minutes then concluded the game.
A question must now be asked, and that is, can the Italians actually beat Spain? There is a possibility. Both are group C teams, and played each other in their first games. Though much has changed since that 1-1 draw, the outcome could be the same. Don't be surprised if penalties come into the mix.
My prediction: Spain wins 4-3 on penalties, drawing 1-1 in regular time.
Monday, May 28, 2012
The Holy Grail
Chelsea and Roman Abrahomvich have finally taken hold of their holy grail, winning a dramatic UEFA Champions League final against Bayern Munich in Munich. Didier Drogba, a longtime Blues fans favorite, was the hero, tying the game in the 88th minute by heading in the Londoners ONLY corner of the game. Drogba came up big in the penalties again, converting the game winner. Roman Abrahmovich has his cup and Terry, Lampard and Drogba have completed the quest.
The game was played on Munich's pitch, which complicated things even more fore a deprived Chelsea, who had 4 players out of the final due to yellow cards/red cards. John Terry, the captain, was a notable missee, while Ramires was probably the most missed of the players. The game was dominated by Bayern. DOMINATED! Bayern controlled possession with 56 percent, won the total of shots and shots on goal 43-9 and 7-3. The Bavarians also led the corner count 20-1. How did they not win? Indeed, for the whole game, as a Chelsea fan, (yes, I will admitt that I'm a Chelsea fan) my only thought was when; when would Munich score. It only seemed inevitable. In fact, the pregame lineups seemed to show that Roberto Di Matteo feared Arjen Robben and Bayerns speed more than anything; he started Ryan Bertrand, whose speed he needed, even though he had never played in a Champions League game before. Good time to make your debut, eh? Anyway, the Bavarians seemed to be in control. As most thought, though it came much later than most would have believed, Munich drew first blood; in the 83rd minute of course. Thomas Muller headed the ball into the ground and above Petr Cech. The Bavarians looked sure to win the Cup on their home ground.
After Muller scored the goal, I could barely breath. I could only think of the lost chance. Fernando Torres came on, and immediatly won a corner for Chelsea. "He's got some use yet," I thought to myself. Mata took the cross, and Drogba sprinted to the near post, put the ball past Manuel Neuer, and continued his run towards Chelsea fans. The stadium, the blue side at least, erupted, and indeed it looked good for the Londoners. Thomas Muller had been taken off to bring an extra defender on, which, looking back on, was an idiotic move. A couple minutes into extra time, Drogba clipped Frank Ribery's heels in the box, giving the ref no choice but to award the penalty. Ribery eventually had to be taken off the pitch, but the time he took to get off the field allowed Arjen Robben to think; and think he did, for he surely got psyched out by the pressure. Petr Cech came up big again, saving the second penalty in their last two UCL games, stopping a Messi penalty in that infamous 2nd leg at Barcelona, which was also caused by a Drogba foul.
Now the game is in penalties. Phillip Lahm, the captain, drove a penalty past Petr Cech to put Bayern up 1-0, and it stayed that way when Juan Mata's shot was saved. Mario Gomez and David Luiz both scored, before Manuel Neuer stepped up, and put HIS shot past Petr Cech. I couldn't believe it. The goalie converted a penalty! 3-1 Bayern. Frank Lampard now stepped up, and scored to make it 3-2. Olic, in his last kick for Bayern, took a weak, weak, weak penalty, that was easily stopped by Petr Cech. This left it open for Ashley Cole to tie the game, and he did. Bastian Schweinstager, the Bavarian of all Barvarians, now took to the spot, looking to put Bayern up 4-3. He failed. Your heart just broke for him; then you came back to your senses, and laughed at him. Didier Drogba, the hero, the savior, stepped up. He converted. Chelsea won. The team went crazy. I think the only person associated with Chelsea who wasn't crying or yelling was Roman Abramovich, the owner. Surprising, because he was the person who persued it the most. The game was incredible.
Now that Roman has his European Cup, he can focus on his final goal; build a new stadium for Chelsea. Even though through the years Blues fans might have found the Russian annoying, he has indeed poured his heart and soul into this club. An estimated $3 billion dollars have been put into the finances of the club by the Russian oil tycoon. He loves this club, and will do anything, almost anything at least, for it.
Didier Drogba has announced that he will part ways with the club. It will not be a bitter parting for the club and player, who has forever been faithful to the west Londoners. He is rumored to go to China or the USA, which would be great for either of those bustling markets. Chelsea have also reportedly struck a deal with Lille star Eden Hazard.
The game was played on Munich's pitch, which complicated things even more fore a deprived Chelsea, who had 4 players out of the final due to yellow cards/red cards. John Terry, the captain, was a notable missee, while Ramires was probably the most missed of the players. The game was dominated by Bayern. DOMINATED! Bayern controlled possession with 56 percent, won the total of shots and shots on goal 43-9 and 7-3. The Bavarians also led the corner count 20-1. How did they not win? Indeed, for the whole game, as a Chelsea fan, (yes, I will admitt that I'm a Chelsea fan) my only thought was when; when would Munich score. It only seemed inevitable. In fact, the pregame lineups seemed to show that Roberto Di Matteo feared Arjen Robben and Bayerns speed more than anything; he started Ryan Bertrand, whose speed he needed, even though he had never played in a Champions League game before. Good time to make your debut, eh? Anyway, the Bavarians seemed to be in control. As most thought, though it came much later than most would have believed, Munich drew first blood; in the 83rd minute of course. Thomas Muller headed the ball into the ground and above Petr Cech. The Bavarians looked sure to win the Cup on their home ground.
After Muller scored the goal, I could barely breath. I could only think of the lost chance. Fernando Torres came on, and immediatly won a corner for Chelsea. "He's got some use yet," I thought to myself. Mata took the cross, and Drogba sprinted to the near post, put the ball past Manuel Neuer, and continued his run towards Chelsea fans. The stadium, the blue side at least, erupted, and indeed it looked good for the Londoners. Thomas Muller had been taken off to bring an extra defender on, which, looking back on, was an idiotic move. A couple minutes into extra time, Drogba clipped Frank Ribery's heels in the box, giving the ref no choice but to award the penalty. Ribery eventually had to be taken off the pitch, but the time he took to get off the field allowed Arjen Robben to think; and think he did, for he surely got psyched out by the pressure. Petr Cech came up big again, saving the second penalty in their last two UCL games, stopping a Messi penalty in that infamous 2nd leg at Barcelona, which was also caused by a Drogba foul.
Now the game is in penalties. Phillip Lahm, the captain, drove a penalty past Petr Cech to put Bayern up 1-0, and it stayed that way when Juan Mata's shot was saved. Mario Gomez and David Luiz both scored, before Manuel Neuer stepped up, and put HIS shot past Petr Cech. I couldn't believe it. The goalie converted a penalty! 3-1 Bayern. Frank Lampard now stepped up, and scored to make it 3-2. Olic, in his last kick for Bayern, took a weak, weak, weak penalty, that was easily stopped by Petr Cech. This left it open for Ashley Cole to tie the game, and he did. Bastian Schweinstager, the Bavarian of all Barvarians, now took to the spot, looking to put Bayern up 4-3. He failed. Your heart just broke for him; then you came back to your senses, and laughed at him. Didier Drogba, the hero, the savior, stepped up. He converted. Chelsea won. The team went crazy. I think the only person associated with Chelsea who wasn't crying or yelling was Roman Abramovich, the owner. Surprising, because he was the person who persued it the most. The game was incredible.
Now that Roman has his European Cup, he can focus on his final goal; build a new stadium for Chelsea. Even though through the years Blues fans might have found the Russian annoying, he has indeed poured his heart and soul into this club. An estimated $3 billion dollars have been put into the finances of the club by the Russian oil tycoon. He loves this club, and will do anything, almost anything at least, for it.
Didier Drogba has announced that he will part ways with the club. It will not be a bitter parting for the club and player, who has forever been faithful to the west Londoners. He is rumored to go to China or the USA, which would be great for either of those bustling markets. Chelsea have also reportedly struck a deal with Lille star Eden Hazard.
Friday, May 18, 2012
Will Munich be painted blue?
Tomorrow Chelsea will face Bayern Munich to decide who will be this years Champions League winner. The odds are stacked up against the Blues, and I'll tell you why.
As I said before, Chelsea will have to defy all sense to win this final. The first reason why is because they will be missing 5-7 starters, including ALL of the Londoners central defenders, Branislav Ivanovic, who is out on too many yellows, and David Luiz and Gary Cahill, who were both injured in games several weeks ago, and have been going at a fiery pace to be fit for the final. John Terry, the captain of the team, will also be missing the final due to a red during that infamous Barca match. The Blues will also be missing Ramires, Raul Meirles and Florent Malouda. So, while Chelsea's forwards are untouched, the midfield and defense will be greatly weakened.
Reason two for why Chelsea is at a disadvantage is that they will be playing at Bayern's home ground, the Allianz Arena. Bayern Munich will be playing A HOME GAME!!! Now Chelsea not only has to overcome injuries and suspensions, but also playing an away game, at their oppositions ground.
Chelsea are certainly at a major disadvantage, and no one in their right mind would pick a team in the position that the Londoners are in to win; I indeed don't believe they can win. But, I just have a feeling; I have a feeling that Roberto Di Matteo's magic is not yet gone, that Terry and Frank Lampard and Didier Drogba aren't going to let their probable last chance at winning a European trophy slip by. So, though you may laugh and scoff, I am choosing Chelsea. The Blues will be facing a tough and hungry Bayern team, but in the end, Chelsea will be come the first London based team to win the Champions League.
While one would think that all of England would be behind the Blues, and indeed outside of the London it is, most of London is pulling for the Bavarians. Tottenham fans want Bayern to win because Chelsea will knock them out of the Champions League if they win. Arsenal fans join in wanting Chelsea not to become the first London based team to win the league.
I will now take you back to 2008, in Moscow, where Chelsea faced Man U in the final. The game was one for the ages, going into penalty kicks, and Man U eventually winning. I'll let the video say it all, but first; that was the last time that Chelsea were in the final, and they lost that time. Could they do it again?
As I said before, Chelsea will have to defy all sense to win this final. The first reason why is because they will be missing 5-7 starters, including ALL of the Londoners central defenders, Branislav Ivanovic, who is out on too many yellows, and David Luiz and Gary Cahill, who were both injured in games several weeks ago, and have been going at a fiery pace to be fit for the final. John Terry, the captain of the team, will also be missing the final due to a red during that infamous Barca match. The Blues will also be missing Ramires, Raul Meirles and Florent Malouda. So, while Chelsea's forwards are untouched, the midfield and defense will be greatly weakened.
Reason two for why Chelsea is at a disadvantage is that they will be playing at Bayern's home ground, the Allianz Arena. Bayern Munich will be playing A HOME GAME!!! Now Chelsea not only has to overcome injuries and suspensions, but also playing an away game, at their oppositions ground.
Chelsea are certainly at a major disadvantage, and no one in their right mind would pick a team in the position that the Londoners are in to win; I indeed don't believe they can win. But, I just have a feeling; I have a feeling that Roberto Di Matteo's magic is not yet gone, that Terry and Frank Lampard and Didier Drogba aren't going to let their probable last chance at winning a European trophy slip by. So, though you may laugh and scoff, I am choosing Chelsea. The Blues will be facing a tough and hungry Bayern team, but in the end, Chelsea will be come the first London based team to win the Champions League.
While one would think that all of England would be behind the Blues, and indeed outside of the London it is, most of London is pulling for the Bavarians. Tottenham fans want Bayern to win because Chelsea will knock them out of the Champions League if they win. Arsenal fans join in wanting Chelsea not to become the first London based team to win the league.
I will now take you back to 2008, in Moscow, where Chelsea faced Man U in the final. The game was one for the ages, going into penalty kicks, and Man U eventually winning. I'll let the video say it all, but first; that was the last time that Chelsea were in the final, and they lost that time. Could they do it again?
Sunday, May 13, 2012
Blue Moon Rising
Today, the greatest premier league season ended with the greatest game in surely football history. City scored twice in stoppage time to become champions for the first time since 1968. A blue moon is indeed rising; so move over Sir Alex, because the noisy neighbours are on the way in.
Indeed, the Citizens did look like they were on their way early, scoring in the 39th minute off a Pablo Zabelta goal. QPR and their fans went into the half concerned with their premier league future. But Rangers came out storming, and a Joleen Lescott error lead to Djbril Cisse scoring, and a small but faithful Rangers crowd went crazy. It grew worse for City in the 63rd minute, when Jamie Mackie put a header into the back of the net. United was leading at Sunderland, and though it was only a one goal cusion, the Red Devils were in a comfortable position. By this point, Joey Barton, being the idiot he is, got himself sent off for elbowing Carlos Tevez. It was on the edge of the box, and the assitant righly gave a free kick. On his way of the pitch, Barton took a knee to the back of Kun Aguero's leg, which started a figh in itself. Mario Balotelli got into it with the Bad Boy, before Barton finally was escorted off.
Thats when the fun began. City attacked and attacked and attacked. Paddy Kenny saved and saved and saved. The Blues took 44 shots, 15 on goal, and only 3 got by Kenny. The Citizens could get nothing going. Then, in the first minute of stoppage time, Edin Dzeko headed a corner past Kenny, and the race was on. All through the second half, I kept saying to myself, if City can get one goal, just get the crowd behind them, they can win. That's just what happened. The crowd awoke, and a fervor of chants, cheers and pleas filled the stadium. Finally, after a nice little flick from Balotelli, Kun Aguero struck a rocket past Paddy Kenney, and secured Manchester City their first title since 1968. The stadium broke out in hysteria; both benches indeed were celebrating. QPR's at that time knew that Bolton had secured relegation, and that no matter how Rangers perfomed, they were staying up. The players on the field didn't know this yet, and you could see the frustration on their faces. The game ended just seconds later, and the pitch was overrun. City fans, many who were too young to remember the last time they had won the league, stormed the pitch, beginning a celebration that will last into the night.
So, now that the league is over, this is how it all stands. City won. Bolton, Wolves and Blackburn were relegated. City, United and Arsenal are in the Champions league, while Newcastle is in the Europa League. If Chelsea win the Champions League on Saturday, then they will be in the Champions League, bumping 4th place Tottenham to the Europa League. It will be a year of European play for at least 5, perhaps 6 English clubs.
Indeed, the Citizens did look like they were on their way early, scoring in the 39th minute off a Pablo Zabelta goal. QPR and their fans went into the half concerned with their premier league future. But Rangers came out storming, and a Joleen Lescott error lead to Djbril Cisse scoring, and a small but faithful Rangers crowd went crazy. It grew worse for City in the 63rd minute, when Jamie Mackie put a header into the back of the net. United was leading at Sunderland, and though it was only a one goal cusion, the Red Devils were in a comfortable position. By this point, Joey Barton, being the idiot he is, got himself sent off for elbowing Carlos Tevez. It was on the edge of the box, and the assitant righly gave a free kick. On his way of the pitch, Barton took a knee to the back of Kun Aguero's leg, which started a figh in itself. Mario Balotelli got into it with the Bad Boy, before Barton finally was escorted off.
Thats when the fun began. City attacked and attacked and attacked. Paddy Kenny saved and saved and saved. The Blues took 44 shots, 15 on goal, and only 3 got by Kenny. The Citizens could get nothing going. Then, in the first minute of stoppage time, Edin Dzeko headed a corner past Kenny, and the race was on. All through the second half, I kept saying to myself, if City can get one goal, just get the crowd behind them, they can win. That's just what happened. The crowd awoke, and a fervor of chants, cheers and pleas filled the stadium. Finally, after a nice little flick from Balotelli, Kun Aguero struck a rocket past Paddy Kenney, and secured Manchester City their first title since 1968. The stadium broke out in hysteria; both benches indeed were celebrating. QPR's at that time knew that Bolton had secured relegation, and that no matter how Rangers perfomed, they were staying up. The players on the field didn't know this yet, and you could see the frustration on their faces. The game ended just seconds later, and the pitch was overrun. City fans, many who were too young to remember the last time they had won the league, stormed the pitch, beginning a celebration that will last into the night.
So, now that the league is over, this is how it all stands. City won. Bolton, Wolves and Blackburn were relegated. City, United and Arsenal are in the Champions league, while Newcastle is in the Europa League. If Chelsea win the Champions League on Saturday, then they will be in the Champions League, bumping 4th place Tottenham to the Europa League. It will be a year of European play for at least 5, perhaps 6 English clubs.
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| City celebrate their first championship in 44 years. 2 whole generation of Blues fans have waited. |
Sunday, May 6, 2012
History Made
Chelsea made history in several ways yesterday, while winning their 4th FA Cup in 6 years. A fight to the end, and yet another controversial goaline call raise more cries for true goaline technology.
A relativly quiet first half began with Ramires speeding by Jose Enrique, before powering his shot to the near post, around a off balance Pepe Reina. Reina, as did most people in the arena, assumed that the Brazilian would go far post, and was caught off by the midfielder as he drew first blood.
In the 52nd minute, it was who else, but Didier Drogba himself, scoring after a wonderful pass on by Lampard. This made him the only man to score in 4 FA Cup finals. It seemed as if Liverpool were buried, but, as the announcers so kindly reminded us, Liverpool have several times come back from down 2-nil.
Finally, it happened. In the 64th, Andy Carroll, a sub brought on by Kenny Daglish, ripped one into the roof of the net. Carroll, had Chelsea not won, was the man of the match. A very, very close encounter that scared most Chelsea fans came just 15 minutes later.
Liverpool was revived. Carroll and Dirk Kuyt had come on and rejuvinized the Reds, to the point where it seemed very likely that Chelsea would not only lose their lead but also the title. A cross from Luis Suarez came to the back post, where Andy Carroll was waiting. As he did against Everton, Carroll rose into the air to head the ball goal bound, in what seemed a goal. But, as replays showed, Petr Cech made an incredible save, only just pushing the ball back across the line before it fully crossed. The Liverpool players protested, but the refs had it right. So, minutes later, Chelsea had their 4th FA Cup in 6 years, their 7th ever. A fight to the end, but the Blues held on. John Terry also became the first captain to win 4 FA Cups with one club.
A relativly quiet first half began with Ramires speeding by Jose Enrique, before powering his shot to the near post, around a off balance Pepe Reina. Reina, as did most people in the arena, assumed that the Brazilian would go far post, and was caught off by the midfielder as he drew first blood.
In the 52nd minute, it was who else, but Didier Drogba himself, scoring after a wonderful pass on by Lampard. This made him the only man to score in 4 FA Cup finals. It seemed as if Liverpool were buried, but, as the announcers so kindly reminded us, Liverpool have several times come back from down 2-nil.
Finally, it happened. In the 64th, Andy Carroll, a sub brought on by Kenny Daglish, ripped one into the roof of the net. Carroll, had Chelsea not won, was the man of the match. A very, very close encounter that scared most Chelsea fans came just 15 minutes later.
Liverpool was revived. Carroll and Dirk Kuyt had come on and rejuvinized the Reds, to the point where it seemed very likely that Chelsea would not only lose their lead but also the title. A cross from Luis Suarez came to the back post, where Andy Carroll was waiting. As he did against Everton, Carroll rose into the air to head the ball goal bound, in what seemed a goal. But, as replays showed, Petr Cech made an incredible save, only just pushing the ball back across the line before it fully crossed. The Liverpool players protested, but the refs had it right. So, minutes later, Chelsea had their 4th FA Cup in 6 years, their 7th ever. A fight to the end, but the Blues held on. John Terry also became the first captain to win 4 FA Cups with one club.
Saturday, April 21, 2012
Review: Chelsea vs. Barca
A Chelsea side that has not been seen for nearly two years showed up to Stamford Bridge on Wednesday, beating Champions League holders Barca 1-0. Chelsea played a near perfect game, and I will break it down for you.
The game saw the pivtol moment come in first half injury time. No not Drogba's goal, but rather Messi's injury. While the ball was live, he seemed to slip on the wet pitch, and looked like he tore his right groin. Though he continued to play, the Messi we saw was not the Messi of the Golden Ball. But why was the only goal in the game NOT the turning point? Because Messi's injury affected the whole rest of the game. He gave the ball away that set up Drogba's goal just seconds later, and hit a free kick from 20 yards out into the bottom of the wall; not very Messi like indeed.
The stats are so lopsided in some areas it's amazing; and most are in BARCA'S favor! They had 79% of the possession, and 24 shots, 6 on goal. But Petr Cech played one of the best games of his life, saving all of the Catalans shots on goal. Though Barca wasted several chances, with Cesc Fabergas shanking two open chances on net, and Alexis Sanchez putting too much power on a Messi like chip, in the 9th minute, that bounced of the cross bar. Gary Cahill and John Terry were rock solid at the back, blocking Messi, literally, from putting his shots on goal. But, the real story of the game was indeed, Didier Drogba. Though I may have robbed him of the pivotal moment, he was man of the match for sure. Despite hitting the turf 7-8 times with an injury, he continued on to lead a perfect Chelsea side to a memorable victory. Now, if the Blues can win at the Nou Camp, they will move on to their 2nd Euro Cup final ever.
The game saw the pivtol moment come in first half injury time. No not Drogba's goal, but rather Messi's injury. While the ball was live, he seemed to slip on the wet pitch, and looked like he tore his right groin. Though he continued to play, the Messi we saw was not the Messi of the Golden Ball. But why was the only goal in the game NOT the turning point? Because Messi's injury affected the whole rest of the game. He gave the ball away that set up Drogba's goal just seconds later, and hit a free kick from 20 yards out into the bottom of the wall; not very Messi like indeed.
The stats are so lopsided in some areas it's amazing; and most are in BARCA'S favor! They had 79% of the possession, and 24 shots, 6 on goal. But Petr Cech played one of the best games of his life, saving all of the Catalans shots on goal. Though Barca wasted several chances, with Cesc Fabergas shanking two open chances on net, and Alexis Sanchez putting too much power on a Messi like chip, in the 9th minute, that bounced of the cross bar. Gary Cahill and John Terry were rock solid at the back, blocking Messi, literally, from putting his shots on goal. But, the real story of the game was indeed, Didier Drogba. Though I may have robbed him of the pivotal moment, he was man of the match for sure. Despite hitting the turf 7-8 times with an injury, he continued on to lead a perfect Chelsea side to a memorable victory. Now, if the Blues can win at the Nou Camp, they will move on to their 2nd Euro Cup final ever.
Sunday, April 15, 2012
Another Call for Goal Line Technology?
The FA Cup final was set today, with Chelsea facing off against Liverpool on May 5th at Wembley Stadium in London. Liverpool defeated cross city rivals 2-1 on a Andy Carroll header, but the more exhilrating match came today, where Tottenham and Chelsea faced off in a London darby.
The first goal came one minute from half time, with Didier Drogba weaving a strike past Tottenham goalie Carlo Cudicini, who was picked over American Brad Friedel. Lampard sent the ball to Drogba on the run, who chested it, then took a touch and a shot, sending a streak past Cudicini. The half ended with Chelsea up 1-0.
The second half was where things got exciting. In the 49th minute, a stray header in the box landed at Juan Mata's feet. He tapped the ball towards a pile up of several Tottenham players and John Terry, who, in the process of trying to head the ball in off a cross, had knocked a few Tottenham players, including Cudicini, to the ground. This should have been a foul, but we must move on to the more controversial call. The ball was batted and stopped by a Tottenham defender, BEFORE it crossed the line. Referee Martin Atkinson called it a goal, though both he and linesmen Mick McDonough were completly blocked by the pile up. The goal was not overturned, and though Tottenham scored off another controversial goal just 7 minutes later, Spurs could never recover.
The goal 7 minutes later came off a near sending off for Petr Cech, when he tripped a wide open Emmanuel Adebayor, and Gareth Bale saved the Chelsea goalie by scoring. David Luiz pulled up lame on the play, and Gary Cahill came on for him. Now Chelsea led 2-1, though it should have been 1-1. The game was one of attacks and counter attacks, with no one side controlling the ball for long enough to make a difference. Then, with Harry Redknap trying to find a man who could provide the crucial goal, Rafael Van der Vaart, the very heart of Tottenham, was taking off for Jermaine Defoe. That was when everything collapsed for Tottenham, when just two minutes later the Blues led 3-1 off a clever through ball from Mata and a Messi-like finish from Ramires. Five minutes after that, Spurs truly fell apart after Frank Lampard smashed a 30-yard free kick in. Florent Malouda came on and scored the fifth goal for Chelsea with just a minute left in the game.
The score line, however uneven it may have looked, did not do true justice to the quality of the game. It was high paced, with the possesion 51-49 in Tottenham's favor, and exhilarting. Both teams played well but in the end, Chelsea were too much.
Chelsea have now drawn near to a success that may very well be counted as a lone one in this 2011-12 campaign. The BPL is out of comprhension, the League cup is over, and a semi final matchup against UEFA Champions League holder Barcelona surely means that the Blues are out of sed competition also. On the other hand, the FA Cup presents a very close and very winnable challenge, with Chelsea facing off against a struggling Liverpool side. The Reds occupy the eighth spot in the BPL table, and are very likely to finish out of Europe. Though they did win the League Cup, a FA Cup victory is vital for Kenny Daglish's men. For the Blues, the Premier League is more worrying, with Chelsea outside of Europe by 2 spots. Unless the Londoners win the Champions League, it seems unlikly for the Blues to be joining Europe's elite next fall. A lot rests on these last two months for both FA Cup finalist sides.
The first goal came one minute from half time, with Didier Drogba weaving a strike past Tottenham goalie Carlo Cudicini, who was picked over American Brad Friedel. Lampard sent the ball to Drogba on the run, who chested it, then took a touch and a shot, sending a streak past Cudicini. The half ended with Chelsea up 1-0.
The second half was where things got exciting. In the 49th minute, a stray header in the box landed at Juan Mata's feet. He tapped the ball towards a pile up of several Tottenham players and John Terry, who, in the process of trying to head the ball in off a cross, had knocked a few Tottenham players, including Cudicini, to the ground. This should have been a foul, but we must move on to the more controversial call. The ball was batted and stopped by a Tottenham defender, BEFORE it crossed the line. Referee Martin Atkinson called it a goal, though both he and linesmen Mick McDonough were completly blocked by the pile up. The goal was not overturned, and though Tottenham scored off another controversial goal just 7 minutes later, Spurs could never recover.
The goal 7 minutes later came off a near sending off for Petr Cech, when he tripped a wide open Emmanuel Adebayor, and Gareth Bale saved the Chelsea goalie by scoring. David Luiz pulled up lame on the play, and Gary Cahill came on for him. Now Chelsea led 2-1, though it should have been 1-1. The game was one of attacks and counter attacks, with no one side controlling the ball for long enough to make a difference. Then, with Harry Redknap trying to find a man who could provide the crucial goal, Rafael Van der Vaart, the very heart of Tottenham, was taking off for Jermaine Defoe. That was when everything collapsed for Tottenham, when just two minutes later the Blues led 3-1 off a clever through ball from Mata and a Messi-like finish from Ramires. Five minutes after that, Spurs truly fell apart after Frank Lampard smashed a 30-yard free kick in. Florent Malouda came on and scored the fifth goal for Chelsea with just a minute left in the game.
The score line, however uneven it may have looked, did not do true justice to the quality of the game. It was high paced, with the possesion 51-49 in Tottenham's favor, and exhilarting. Both teams played well but in the end, Chelsea were too much.
Chelsea have now drawn near to a success that may very well be counted as a lone one in this 2011-12 campaign. The BPL is out of comprhension, the League cup is over, and a semi final matchup against UEFA Champions League holder Barcelona surely means that the Blues are out of sed competition also. On the other hand, the FA Cup presents a very close and very winnable challenge, with Chelsea facing off against a struggling Liverpool side. The Reds occupy the eighth spot in the BPL table, and are very likely to finish out of Europe. Though they did win the League Cup, a FA Cup victory is vital for Kenny Daglish's men. For the Blues, the Premier League is more worrying, with Chelsea outside of Europe by 2 spots. Unless the Londoners win the Champions League, it seems unlikly for the Blues to be joining Europe's elite next fall. A lot rests on these last two months for both FA Cup finalist sides.
Saturday, March 10, 2012
Di Matteo proves his worth.
Today, with Chelsea pulling out a 1-0 win over Stoke City, Roberto Di Matteo, the interim manager for Roman Abrhamovich, has strengthened his case for the head managerial job. Last Sunday, 34 year old Portugese manager Andre Villas-Boas was fired, with Chelsea in 5th place. They are still in 5th place, only trailing Arsenal on goal difference. This was Di Matteo's first home game as interim manager, following a 2-0 win over Championship side Birmingham. This week, Chelsea play host to SSC Napoli in the Champions League. They are down 3-1 on aggregate, and only a miracle will propel them into the Round of 16.
Di Matteo didn't start Juan Mata, who has racked up 5 goals and 9 assists for the West Londoners this campaing, because he thought it would be a physical game, with goes against the finesse filled Juan Mata's game. "We are gaining confidence and belief," he said in a postmatch interview, "and that is we need to go forward."
Among the names of replacements for Villas-Boas are Jose Mourhino, Rafa Benetiz, and even the successful Pep Guardiola, even though that is very unlikely. The next couple of weeks and months will be carzy ones.
Di Matteo didn't start Juan Mata, who has racked up 5 goals and 9 assists for the West Londoners this campaing, because he thought it would be a physical game, with goes against the finesse filled Juan Mata's game. "We are gaining confidence and belief," he said in a postmatch interview, "and that is we need to go forward."
Among the names of replacements for Villas-Boas are Jose Mourhino, Rafa Benetiz, and even the successful Pep Guardiola, even though that is very unlikely. The next couple of weeks and months will be carzy ones.
Thursday, February 2, 2012
"The Game Before the Game"
Sunday brings around one of the biggest sports days in America, as the Super Bowl is being played. But, across the pond, on of the biggest soccer days will be played out, as Manchester United travels to Stamford Bridge to take on Chelsea, while Newcastle takes on Aston Villa. "The Game before the Game," as Fox Soccer is calling it, will be one of the biggest games of the year.
In the first clash between these giants, out of whom have come the last seven champions, Manchester United dominated the game, winning by a tally of 3-1, with Fernando Torres missing an open goal shot that brought boo's and a hail of abuse from the media. The game was Manchester United's to lose from the start, and the advantage of Old Trafford helped very much. Now, Chelsea are at home, and though they are coming off an exceptionally weak performance at Swansea, they can be expected to perform better. All title hopes are gone for the Blues now, with a hope residing only truthfully in the FA Cup, or, a very, very unlikely Champions League trophy. Andre Villas Boas is truthfully on the hot seat with Roman Abrhamovich.
Yesterday's riots in Egypt after a Al-Masry and Aly-Ahly where 74 people were killed has resulted in the Egyptian FA's board being disbanded by the prime minister Kamal el-Ganzouri, as FIFA were demanding reports as to why such a tragedy was allowed to happen. Hundreds more people were injured. This is the worst show of soccer violence since 1996.
In the first clash between these giants, out of whom have come the last seven champions, Manchester United dominated the game, winning by a tally of 3-1, with Fernando Torres missing an open goal shot that brought boo's and a hail of abuse from the media. The game was Manchester United's to lose from the start, and the advantage of Old Trafford helped very much. Now, Chelsea are at home, and though they are coming off an exceptionally weak performance at Swansea, they can be expected to perform better. All title hopes are gone for the Blues now, with a hope residing only truthfully in the FA Cup, or, a very, very unlikely Champions League trophy. Andre Villas Boas is truthfully on the hot seat with Roman Abrhamovich.
Yesterday's riots in Egypt after a Al-Masry and Aly-Ahly where 74 people were killed has resulted in the Egyptian FA's board being disbanded by the prime minister Kamal el-Ganzouri, as FIFA were demanding reports as to why such a tragedy was allowed to happen. Hundreds more people were injured. This is the worst show of soccer violence since 1996.
Friday, January 20, 2012
Battle of the Giants, part 2
On Sunday, Manchester United visits the Emirates as they try to steal three points from a hot Robin Van Persie and Arsenal. The game will be a rewind, with Thierry Henry, Paul Scholes and Ryan Giggs playing against each other in Man U/Arsenal shirts for the first time since 2007.
The game is being highly advertised by Fox, who is airing the game in the US. The key for the Man U is to contain an explosive Robin Van Persie, who has racked up a league high 18 goals and is sure to score at least one on Sunday. The explosive striker has surely been occupying Sir Alex Ferguson's mind this week, as RVP has the capacity to go off. Rio Ferdinand and captain Nemanja Vidic will have their hands full on Sunday. Alex Song and Gervinho are both potential threats that can't be left alone.
The key for Arsenal is to not give Rooney more than five chances on goal. Though this may sound crazy, but Rooney's scored 13 goals this year on 90 shots, compared to RVP's 18 goals on 97 shots, which is a 14% success rate compared to a 18% success. The less shots he gets, the less likely he is to score (somewhat obvious). And for Pete's sake, don't let him fire strikes from 26 yards out at the goal all day. Get out on him.
My prediction: Arsenal 3, Man U 2.
The game is being highly advertised by Fox, who is airing the game in the US. The key for the Man U is to contain an explosive Robin Van Persie, who has racked up a league high 18 goals and is sure to score at least one on Sunday. The explosive striker has surely been occupying Sir Alex Ferguson's mind this week, as RVP has the capacity to go off. Rio Ferdinand and captain Nemanja Vidic will have their hands full on Sunday. Alex Song and Gervinho are both potential threats that can't be left alone.
The key for Arsenal is to not give Rooney more than five chances on goal. Though this may sound crazy, but Rooney's scored 13 goals this year on 90 shots, compared to RVP's 18 goals on 97 shots, which is a 14% success rate compared to a 18% success. The less shots he gets, the less likely he is to score (somewhat obvious). And for Pete's sake, don't let him fire strikes from 26 yards out at the goal all day. Get out on him.
My prediction: Arsenal 3, Man U 2.
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