WORLD FOOTBALL REPORT

CAF 2012: Zambian joy ends emotional tournament - Final and tournament analysis by FIFA.com

2012-02-13T01:59:00.001-08:00

LONDON. Just when it seemed that Didier Drogba and Côte d’Ivoire would finally be crowned continental kings,Zambia stepped in to swipe their first CAF Africa Cup of Nations. A penalty shootout triumph on Sunday after a nervy, scoreless final made the south Africans the 14th nation to win the event. A team without major international stars, Zambia left little doubt that they were worthy champions, and that the continent has another heavyweight to consider.

The champions

Passionate French coach Herve Renard told everyone about the underdog talent of his team, and they eventually proved him right. It was touching that the final came in Gabon’s capital, which is near the site of a tragic plane crash that killed much of the beloved Zambian national team in 1993, and the spirit of the catastrophe inspired the side. “It is an emotional place for us to play,” said Chipolopolo captain and Player of the Tournament Christopher Katongo. “The whole ofZambia wants us to make the heroes of 1993 proud, and we want to play well to honour them.”

The side showed great strength throughout the event, with their brave attitude encapsulated by confident goalkeeper Kennedy Mweene. “I don’t get to shaking just because I am facing Drogba,” he said before the final. “There is no panic for us in this team.” And so it was that they stood up to Ghana in the last four, with Mweene saving an early penalty kick from Asamoah Gyan, and overcame the seeming inevitability of the Elephants in the tense final when they had so many chances to lose their nerve.

The favourites

Côte d’Ivoire were clinical over the three weeks until getting bogged down in the final by the inspired Zambians. “We have learned the need to be very solid and robust. This time we have a very good defence and that is our strength,” said coach Francois Zahoui. This kind of focus was evident, and their second Cup of Nations, 20 years after their last, was in reach after they completed six matches without conceding a goal. But they were exposed by the pressure of the shootout, and although Drogba continues to be a vital and inspirational figure on and off the pitch, his penalty miss in regular time of the final will no doubt cloud memories of his performance.

Ghana, who Renard called “Africa’s most consistent team” were left downhearted once again after the defeat toZambia and a blow against Mali in the third-place match. The relative misery of the Black Stars, who have not conquered the continent in 30 years and were considered co-favourites with Côte d’Ivoire ahead of the finals, was further compounded by Gyan’s failure from the spot in the fateful last four match, which conjured up memories of his missed penalty in the 2010 FIFA World Cup™.

The surprises

The successes were many, but one failure shocked above all others. Senegal's highly touted Teranga Lions crashed to three 2-1 defeats and ended up without a point, which cost coach Amara Traore his job. "Success will come for us, of that I have no doubt,” said striker Demba Ba defiantly afterwards. Mali were happy to step in toSenegal’s shoes, finishing third - their best result in four decades. Led by Barcelona’s Seydou Keita and veteran coach Alain Giresse, the Eagles climbed out of a tough group and past co-hosts Gabon in a dramatic penalty shootout in the quarter-finals before running out of steam against Côte d’Ivoire in the last four.

The co-hosts also inspired as both teams reached the last eight while playing some quality football. Gabon, who beat veteran sides Morocco and Tunisia in the group stage, in particular showed off a rising generation of exciting players. Equatorial Guinea were the lowest-ranked team before the finals, but they did not show it in stunningSenegal - Kily's long-range winner in injury time one of the goals of the tournament - and only falling to Zambia by a goal. And Sudanconfirmed that they have been making strong progress under coach Mohamed ‘Mazda’ Abdullah. “Our campaign was a success, and we achieved most of our objectives,” said the Desert Hawks coach after a lopsided loss to Zambia in the last eight. “Since 1976, we had not won a point or scored a goal, but we made history here by reaching the quarter-final.”

The stars

Kolo and Yaya Toure inspired the Elephants along with Gervinho, who scored an excellent match-winning goal against Mali. Leaving aside his unfortunate final, Drogba showed his best, scoring twice, after having a penalty saved against Equatorial Guinea in the quarter-finals. Keitafor Mali played consistently like a much younger man, while Dede Ayew did the opposite in a positive way for Ghana.

Youngster Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang had a lot to do with Gabon's run, but he also missed the only spot-kick in the shoot-out with Mali. For Zambia, captain Chris Katongo and Rainford Kalaba were central to a brisk Zambian attack, while Mweene led a defence that did not give up a goal in the knockout rounds. From North Africa, Moroccan Younes Belhanda was a brilliant midfield conductor in a disappointing side, and Youssef Msakni, who at least advanced to the quarter-finals with Tunisia, is a tricky footballer and a star of the future.

Did you know?

The 2012 version was the seventh CAN final to go to penalties. Côte d’Ivoire also lost the last one that did so, in 2006 to Egypt. In this case, TP Mazembe centre-back Stoppila Sunzu converted the winning kick. It was the third final for both Zambia and Côte d’Ivoire, and the pair both have now won once each.

The statistics

7 – the number of players that finished together atop the scoring table with three goals. Cheick Diabate of Maliscored all of his in the knockout rounds, while Gabon’s Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, Angola’s Manucho andMorocco’s Houssine Kharja nabbed theirs in the group stage. Drogba as well as Chris Katongo and Emmanuel Mayuka of Zambia could have finished top alone but failed to find the net in the final.

What they said

“It was a sign of destiny, written in the sky. There was a special spirit with us,” Herve Renard,Zambia coach.

Read more and watch Tournaments picture on the link below:

FIFA.com - Zambian joy ends emotional tournament

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ENGLAND: TV Interview (Video)That Lead to FABIO CAPELLO's Resignation

2012-02-11T10:16:00.000-08:00

When media's power counts more than a battle on the pitch.

Fabio Capello's interview to State TV RaiUno

last Sunday that will decide England's Euro 2012 fate.

Capello, l'intervista alla Rai che poi ha portato alle dimissioni

9 Febbraio 2012

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Ecco l'intervista che ha poi portato le dimissioni di Fabio Capello. Il tecnico italiano ha lasciato la guida della nazionale inglese dopo le dichiarazioni rilasciate a Carlo Paris durante...

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ENGLAND: Furious CAPELLO's Farewell Shell Shocks Nation Four Months From EURO 2012

2012-02-08T21:39:00.000-08:00

Fabio: ''The FA was disrespectful and undermined my authority''

By LUCIO MENIN

LONDON. Fabio Capello has resigned from his job of England head coach, The FA announced last night.

TV INTERVIEW

Last Sunday's interview during Italian State TV RaiUno programme '5' injury time' has brought to the final row and divorce between Fabio Capello and the FA.

TERRY CASE

The 'Terry case' and the FA's decision to relieve the Chelsea defender from his duty of England captain for the alleged racial insults to Anton Ferdinand didn't go down well to the Italian manager who voiced to Rai TV his indignation “I consider every person cannot be considered guilty until proved guilty by a Tribunal”.

WEMBLEY MEETING

Fabio's stands up did not please the Football Association which made known last night on its website that 'After a called up meeting at Wembley Stadium between Chairman David Bernstein, General Secretary Alex Horne and Fabio Capello itself , the Friulian coach resigned from his England manager job'.

FABIO's FAREWELL

“We discussed the FA Board's decision to relieve John Terry of his captain armband and on Capello's interview to the Italian broadcaster' quoted the FA's Chairman David Bernstein. 'After an hour long meeting Fabio's resignation were accepted and ' Fabio Capello leaves with immediate effect his England manager job'. The FA chairman David Bernstein went on saying 'I would like to stress that during all today's meeting and for all his mandate as England coach, Fabio has been always extremely professional. We have accepted his resignation and agreed that this is the right decision. We would like to thanks Fabio for his work with the England team and we wish him every success for the future'.

FABIO's FURY

Bernstein's formal thanking sounded ironic and as if bearing shock of unexpected resignation in its final 'wishing him well' bit. It should have been vice versa really. If someone need a wishing well now it is England left without coaching structure four months from the Euro 2012 in Poland and Ukraine. Fabio's first words as former England coach - released to ITALPRESS - were “ What have stricken me and forced to take this decision was the fact that (in Terry's circumstance) the much glorified Anglo-Saxons 'Sense of Justice'- where they are the first to preach 'Nobody's is guilty until proven guilty'- has come short. I felt the FA's behaviour being disrespectful to me and it undermined my authority'.'Since I have ever been intolerant of certain types of interferences it has been easy to dispute it and therefore come up with the decision to leave” (ITALPRESS)

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European Leagues Weekend Round up Highlights: City and Dortmund edge ahead in title quests - UEFA.com

2012-02-06T06:04:00.000-08:00

Manchester United FC may have caught the eye, but it was an even better weekend for Manchester City FC as they and Bundesliga top dogs Borussia Dortmund built two-point leads.

Edin Džeko is mobbed by team-mates after finding the net against Fulham©Getty Images

UEFA.COM FEATURES

Europe's footballing birds

Always handy on the wing, birds have inspired football clubs across Europe; UEFA.com surveys the skyline and finds blue pigeons, a flock of eagles and a seagull slain by a Dutch football.

10 of 10

LONDON There were fireworks at Stamford Bridge as Manchester United FC clawed back from three goals down to draw with Chelsea FC, but it was a result that played into the hands of Manchester City FC as the Premier League leaders joined Bundesliga top dogs Borussia Dortmund in moving two points clear. The teams at the top in Spain, Italy and France preserved their advantages, meanwhile, despite Juventus drawing a blank at home. UEFA.com recaps the best of the action.

England
Manchester City ended the weekend with a two-point advantage atop the Premier League after they defeated Fulham FC 3-0 and nearest rivals Manchester United drew 3-3 with Chelsea. "We know, if we want to win this league, we should just try and win all the games and not think about other teams," said City manager Roberto Mancini. His team looked certain to be sitting even prettier when United fell 3-0 down on Sunday, but a stunning second-half comeback earned Sir Alex Ferguson's side a point in west London. Tottenham Hotspur FC, eight points behind City in third, play Liverpool FC on Monday.

Germany
It is advantage Dortmund in the Bundesliga title race after the reigning champions were the only club among the leading quartet to clinch victory. Jürgen Klopp's men triumphed 2-0 at 1. FC Nürnburg on Friday and were then able to sit back and watch their rivals with delight, FC Bayern München drawing 1-1 at Hamburger SV, FC Schalke 04 recording the same outcome against 1. FSV Mainz 05 and VfL Borussia Mönchengladbach unable to find a way past VfL Wolfsburg. "To finish as champions, you have to win a lot of matches," said Bayern forward Thomas Müller, whose side lie level with Schalke and a point clear of Gladbach, but crucially two behind Dortmund. "I'm immensely annoyed about the draw, because we could have come away with more."

Spain
Slender wins maintained the status quo at the Liga summit asSergio Ramos gave Real Madrid CF a 1-0 success at city neighbours Getafe CF to keep them seven points clear of Barcelona CF. A Lionel Messi volley was the difference for the title holders in their 2-1 triumph against Real Sociedad de Fútbol at Camp Nou, after Cristian Tello had earlier scored on his debut. "There's a lot of the Liga season left and a lot of points [to play for]," said the 20-year-old. "We have to fight until the end." In third, Valencia CF were held 0-0 at Club Atlético de Madrid, while fourth-placed Levante UD have now gone six matches without a win following their 1-1 stalemate with struggling Real Racing Club.

Italy
There was little movement in the upper echelons of Serie A as the top five all failed to prevail. Leaders Juventus were held 0-0 by AC Siena and that was also the scoreline between second-placed AC Milan and SSC Napoli, a game in which Milan striker Zlatan Ibrahimović saw red. A pair of 3-2 reverses undermined the teams in third and fourth, Udinese Calcio losing at ACF Fiorentina and S.S. Lazio going down at Genoa CFC, but the result of the weekend surely came in the capital, where AS Roma swept aside fifth-placed FC Internazionale Milano 4-0. "For the last few weeks we've no longer been ourselves," said Inter coach Claudio Ranieri. "We concede too many goals and can't seem to play the football we know we can."

France
Paris Saint-Germain FC continue to look down on the rest of their rivals thanks to a pair of Nenê goals in a 3-1 defeat of Évian Thonon Gaillard FC. That protected their three-point cushion after closest pursuers Montpellier Hérault SC edged Stade Brestois 29 1-0, but PSG coach Carlo Ancelotti is still hoping for more from his troops. "I think we must play better, with more order, more confidence and more rigour, because we allowed Evian to get the ball forward too easily," commented the Italian. Olympique de Marseille hosted Olympique Lyonnais on Sunday night with both looking to move third after LOSC Lille Métropole's game at FC Sochaux-Montbéliard was postponed due to the weather, but a 2-2 draw kept the clubs fifth and fourth respectively.

Elsewhere
Galatasaray AŞ's lead in Turkey remains three points after they beat Gaziantepspor 2-1 and nearest challengers Fenerbahçe SK overcame third-placed Beşiktaş JK 2-0. In Greece, Panathinaikos FC's cushion is down to two points after they lost 1-0 at Levadiakos FC and Olympiacos FC posted a 2-0 victory at PAOK FC. Over in Cyprus, meanwhile, AC Omonia are two points in the clear following a 2-0 triumph against Anagennisis Derynia FC, with AEL Limassol FC second in the wake of their goalless draw with third-placed APOEL FC. There was Portuguese League Cup action too, finally, and holders SL Benfica will face FC Porto in the semi-finals after both ended the group stage with perfect records.

Read more on link below - courtesy of UEFA.com -

City and Dortmund edge ahead in title quests – UEFA.com

Euro 2000 match winner Trezeguet, the striker who knocked out Man Utd from 1998 Champion League - is unveiled by River Plate

2012-01-13T06:16:00.000-08:00

COMMENT: How still vivid in our memories is the Franco-Argentinian's thundering strike from outside the box that knocked out Sir Alex's Manchester United at the Old Trafford after a dull no score draw away against Jean Tigana's AS Monaco

GettyImagesDavid Trezeguet is back in Argentina

LONDON. Former France striker David Trezeguet has been unveiled as a River Plate player as he returns to Argentina, the country where he began his career. (Pictured right with coach Daniel Passarella)

Trezeguet, 34, who started off at Argentinian side Platense, had been expected to complete his move last month after a short spell in the United Arab Emirates with Bani Yas.

The Buenos Aires giants are currently in the second tier of Argentinian league after being relegated for the first time in their history, but nonetheless Trezeguet is relishing a different type of test.

Trezeguet told AS: ``I'm aware that the situation is more complicated - to play in the second division which is predominantly more physical, and I think it will be like this. I feel good, and I am looking forward.''

Source:

Striker David Trezeguet unveiled by River Plate - ESPN Soccernet

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ENGLAND: Man City Kompany red card appeal rejected by FA. Let's see if new interpretation will now be consistently applied to showcase Premier League?

2012-01-10T09:53:00.000-08:00

COMMENT: FA's rejection of Manchester City appeal for Chris Foy's highly controversial red card to Vincent Kompany will definitively be a milestone decision for English football.

It was only five years ago in fact that the FA Disciplinary hearing upheld an Arsenal FC appeal for a red card lifted by referee Steve Bennet at Highbury deciding in that way to overlook FIFA's new Laws interpretations.

The challenge was much worse of the Man City defender as the Arsenal player when through the opponent's body. The new rule for uncontrolled tackles had just been introduced but such was the clamor on the media, in particular from former 'Gunner' Kenny Samson, launched from the Sky Sport channel, that the FA looked almost relieved more than embarrassed by the change of mind.

Since then we have seen a constant corrosion within the rule that climaxed with Frank Lampard going through the body of Liverpool's Xavi Alonso who fractured his ankle. Shamefully Lampard got away with a yellow card for the incident and continued fearless his doing until last week-end where another similar incident set up another media frenzy.

Will this decision from the FA now means the FIFA rules will be interpreted correctly on the English grounds? Let's hope yes. However Wayne Rooney got away unpunished for blatantly harassing of the referee by calling for a red card on Kompany's fair tackle. There is a clear Laws provision which forbid it, and the fact Rooney was left unpunished means there are few hope for changes as Laws are most of the time unfairly applied and worse decisions looks biased.

Lucio Menin

LONDON. Manchester City skipper Vincent Kompany will serve a four-match ban after having his appeal against the red card he was shown in Sunday's FA Cup tie with Manchester United rejected by the Football Association.

Earlier today, Blues manager Roberto Mancini expressed his confidence the suspension would be overturned on the basis that Kompany did not foul Nani at the Etihad Stadium.

But an Independent Regulatory Commission has today reached a different conclusion, ruling Kompany out of tomorrow's Carling Cup semi-final with Liverpool.

"An Independent Regulatory Commission has today [Tuesday 10 January] dismissed a claim of wrongful dismissal from Manchester City's Vincent Kompany following his red card for Serious Foul Play in The FA Cup Third Round tie between Manchester City v Manchester United on 8 January 2012," said an FA statement.

"Kompany will serve a four-match suspension with immediate effect.
"The suspension consists of a statutory three-match suspension for Serious Foul Play plus one additional game given this is Kompany's second dismissal of the season."

In addition to tomorrow night's Carling Cup semi-final first leg, Kompany will also miss the return at Anfield in a fortnight, plus the Barclays Premier League encounters with Wigan and Tottenham in between.

Although opinion was divided about Chris Foy's decision to send Kompany off just 12 minutes into what was eventually a thrilling 3-2 defeat, once the decision was made, it always seemed unlikely to be overturned.

Sir Alex Ferguson and Wayne Rooney were in no doubts, with Mancini blaming the United striker for gesturing towards Foy in the immediate aftermath of the incident, for which, admittedly, Nani did not complain.

Mancini now faces the consequences, which is likely to mean the biggest match to date of Stefan Savic's short City career unless the Blues manager opts to select Micah Richards in central defence alongside Joleon Lescott as Kolo Toure is currently away on African Nations Cup duty.

"My opinion has not changed," said Mancini at his pre-match press briefing earlier today.
"He was sent off for nothing. He has already missed one game.
"I don't think about this (being banned). It would be not correct if that happened."

Mancini also claimed he was right to point out that Wayne Rooney gestured to referee Chris Foy for Kompany to be sent off, even though the United star claims to only have been pointing out it was a two-footed tackle.

"I joked with Wayne Rooney. But he did it," said Mancini.
"Nani was there. He didn't say anything."

Source : PA / Vincent Kompany red card appeal rejected by FA - FA & League Cups - Football - The Independent

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FIFA President's Women's Football Vision Finaly Materialises: WAGs Nicola T and Melissa Johnson show their support for Yahoo on Twitpic

2011-12-15T06:15:00.000-08:00

Sepp Blatter wasn't wrong after all when demanding some better dressing for Women's Football; How about this one from the USA?

WAGs Nicola T and Melissa Johnson show their support for Yaho... on Twitpic

ITV to show England's Euro 2012 opener against France | ITV Sport

2011-12-12T20:26:00.000-08:00

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ITV will show England's opening Euro 2012 game against France on 11th Juneafter coverage plans were confirmed on Monday.

The Three Lions' final Group D game against co-hosts Ukraine (19th June) will also be live on ITV. The BBC will show England's second group encounter against Sweden.

Ireland's Group C matches against world and European champions Spain (14th June), and against Croatia (10th June) will also be live on ITV.

The Euro 2012 final on 1 July will be shown live on both ITV and the BBC.

ITV's Controller of Sport, Niall Sloane, said: "I'm delighted that ITV has secured an outstanding selection of games through the tournament, which includes England's opening game against France as well as a potential peak time group decider against hosts Ukraine.

"ITV1 will also be the home of some terrific clashes between the top teams in Europe including Spain v Ireland, Spain v Italy, Portugal v Holland and Ireland v Croatia."

Philip Bernie, BBC head of TV sport said: "The BBC is delighted to be showing the Uefa European Football Championship, a huge football event, which, along with the London Olympics, should ensure a fantastic sporting summer for BBC viewers.

"We are very happy with the live matches on BBC One, as they give us a strong climax to the event, with both semi-finals, as well as England's quarter-final if they progress."

Where you can watch Euro 2012 group games:

8 June: Poland v Greece (BBC), Russia v Czech Republic (ITV)
9 June: Netherlands v Denmark (BBC), Germany v Portugal (BBC)
10 June: Spain v Italy (ITV), Republic of Ireland v Croatia (ITV)
11 June: France v England (ITV), Ukraine v Sweden (BBC)
12 June: Greece v Czech Republic (ITV), Poland v Russia (ITV)
13 June: Denmark v Portugal (ITV), Netherlands v Germany (BBC)
14 June: Italy v Croatia (BBC), Spain v Republic of Ireland (ITV)
15 June: Ukraine v France (ITV), Sweden v England (BBC)
16 June: Greece v Russia (BBC), Poland v Czech Republic (BBC)
17 June: Portugal v Netherlands (ITV), Denmark v Germany (ITV)
18 June: Croatia v Spain (BBC), Italy v Republic of Ireland (BBC)
19 June: Sweden v France (ITV), England v Ukraine (ITV)

ITV to show England's Euro 2012 opener against France | ITV Sport

World Football Report: From the Publishers of 1st Interactive Journal. Established 1992. Copyright 2005 -2011 C.S.E. Limited. All rights reserved. Unauthorized reproductions of any part forbidden.

MSL: Highlights of last Sunday's Final. MatchDay 360 / MLS Cup 2011

2011-11-26T07:00:00.000-08:00

From the teams arriving at Home Depot Center to the last sip of champagne in the locker room, re-live the Galaxy's triumphant evening in LA.

UEFA Women’s Euro 2013 qualifier ENGLAND v SERBIA EXCLUSIVELY LIVE and FREE HERE (TheFA.com FATV Live) KO 19:25, Doncaster Rs' Keepmoat Stadium

2011-11-23T10:42:00.000-08:00

TheFA.com - FATV Live:

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FIFA: Blatter hurt by racism fallout | Football | Reuters

2011-11-23T02:17:00.000-08:00

As new issues (Islamic head scarf) appear in the debate

By Patrick Johnston

08:50 GMT, Wed 23 Nov 2011

KUALA LUMPUR (Reuters) - FIFA President Sepp Blatter snapped at colleagues and looked beset by nerves on Wednesday as he described the hurt he felt after being criticised for his comments about racism in football.

FOOTBALL

LONDON. The usually slick Blatter addressed the media after opening the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) executive committee meeting in Kuala Lumpur, but when invited to speak to the small crowd he knocked a microphone off the table in front of him and shuffled uncomfortably in his seat.

The 75-year-old struggled through the media conference in Malaysia and offered long, rambling answers about topics such as the strength of Asian economies, while officials tried to limit tricky questions.

Blatter has been battered by waves of negative headlines since last week when he said there was no racism in the sport and, if there was, players should just shake hands afterwards to resolve it.

The head of football's world governing body later released a statement to 'clarify his comments' and has been on a charm offensive after conducting a number of interviews in Europe to stress his commitment to eradicating racism from soccer.

However, the opening question at AFC House in Kuala Lumpur, predictably on his comments on racism, brought a curt reply.

"I can only say this item for me is closed. I have made my apologies, I cannot say more," Blatter told reporters, eyes shifting around the room as he looked for the right words.

"If somebody is still thinking I am a racist, sorry to say that I am working now practically 37 years in FIFA ... there is no racism, nothing at all, and this matter for me is over and over. We go forward."

Asked by Reuters if he had been surprised by the reaction to his comments and calls for him to resign from the post he has held since 1998, the Swiss said he had been upset by the criticism.

"In my activities as the FIFA president nothing is surprising me, but I was very much hurt by these comments because it touched me in my conscience."

After Blatter answered, an AFC official hosting the session asked for no more questions on the subject, and FIFA vice president Prince Ali of Jordan, sat next to the Swiss, then offered his full support to the beleaguered FIFA leader.

AWKWARD MOMENT

However it was not just the media who were causing Blatter angst. When asked about the use of the hijab, the Islamic head scarf, in football, Blatter shot down Prince Ali's offer to answer on his behalf.

"I can just answer, I was asked, I answer. You can add but I answer," a visibly frustrated Blatter snapped as Prince Ali blushed.

The AFC official was required to come to the president's aid when he was asked if there was any way banned AFC head Mohammed Bin Hammam could be welcomed back into FIFA in future after they found him guilty of bribing officials.

"I am not up to comment on any decision taken by our different committees and we will await the outcome for the next step," Blatter said before the official added the subject should not be mentioned again.

Bin Hammam has launched an appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport to overturn the FIFA ban and faces a race against time to clear his name by a deadline of May 31 in order to return to his role.

The AFC have appointed Zhang Jilong as acting president and Blatter praised his work before having a dig at his former friend Bin Hammam.

"I can only congratulate and commend the Asian Football Confederation how they have dealt with the problem that has occurred here in this confederation especially by having to replace the president.

"We now have an acting president, we have an executive committee that is working together in solidarity and unity, and I am very, very happy."

(Editing by Peter Rutherford)

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MLS: LA Galaxy crowned champions after Landon Donovan winner - ESPN Soccernet

2011-11-21T21:23:00.000-08:00

By ESPNsoccernet staff

The Los Angeles Galaxy claimed a 1-0 victory over the Houston Dynamo in the MLS Cup final on Sunday night in what could prove to be David Beckham's last game for the club.

Landon Donovan wins MLS Cup MVP

• Will Tidey: A Hollywood ending
• Beckham unsure of future plans

Landon Donovan scored the winner after latching onto Robbie Keane's pass in the 72nd minute. Donovan dinked a classy finish over Houston goalkeeper Tally Hall, much to the delight of a sell-out crowd of 30,281 inside the rainy Home Depot Center.

The win handed former England captain Beckham, whose five-year contract expires next month, his first title in the United States. The Galaxy bossed possession in the first half and had much the better of the chances, but were unable to capitalise.

Adam Cristman should have put Los Angeles ahead in the 11th minute when he found himself unmarked from Beckham's corner, but he headed wide. Cristman was again off target with a header in the 26th minute, the offside flag having stayed down after a fine curling ball into the box from Beckham on the right.

The Dynamo almost gifted their rivals the lead a minute later when a defensive mix-up between Jermaine Taylor and Geoff Cameron allowed Cristman in again, but he lost his footing in the area.

Donovan then had a couple of sights of goal, the first after neat interplay with Robbie Keane, but failed to trouble Hall. Keane found himself through on goal in the 41st minute from Juninho's pass, but Hall got out well to smother the danger.

Houston's only on-target effort of the first half came a minute before the break with a long-range effort from Danny Cruz which was comfortably dealt with by LA keeper Josh Saunders.

Keane beat the offside trap three minutes into the second half but sent his cross-shot just wide. The Republic of Ireland captain thought he had given his side the lead in the 56th minute when he took Beckham's pass on his chest and slotted the ball through the keeper's legs, but he was adjudged offside.

Scottish midfielder Adam Moffat could have shocked the Galaxy in the 65th minute but directed his header wide when well placed, and seven minutes later the Dynamo were behind.

Beckham's flick-on found Keane, who played in Donovan, and the Galaxy's record scorer added another to his tally by lifting the ball over the outstretched hand of Hall.

Donovan could have returned the favour for Keane seven minutes later but opted to go alone and his 20-yard shot was saved by Hall, albeit at the second attempt.

Beckham almost added a second goal with a trademark free-kick in the third minute of stoppage time. Hall palmed it away from the top corner, but the Galaxy had done enough.

The final whistle sounded moments later, confirming Los Angeles' first title since 2005 and securing a league-record three crowns for coach Bruce Arena.

MLS: LA Galaxy crowned champions after Landon Donovan winner - ESPN Soccernet

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US title and Al Pacino greets Beckham LA - Repubblica.it

2011-11-20T06:10:00.000-08:00

Major League Soccer

Shield and Al Pacino
greets Beckham LA

The Englishman, in the team for the final Major League Soccer between the Galaxy and Houston, will be at his last game in America. "Living here has been a dream: I met Jack Nicholson in the toilet ..."

from the corresponding Enrico Franceschini

LONDON - Meet Jack Nicholson and Al Pacino to the toilet at a traffic light may not be the most important things in life. But they are a small example of what was the life of David Beckham in Los Angeles over the past five years and will have a weight when the time comes for him to decide whether to stay in America or return to Europe. The former star of Manchester United and Real Madrid (well, part-time, AC Milan) plays tomorrow's final Major League Soccer Cup with his Los Angeles Galaxy will be the last game before the expiry of his contract five years and the first opportunity for Beckham to win the title in the professional American football. It should be his farewell game, because at 36 it seems unlikely that the player will renew the contract with the Galaxy. There is talk of an offer that would have made the Paris St Germain, to return to play in Europe, and of his desire to play for the team of Great Britain at the London Olympics next summer, as one of three non-quota allowed in the Under21.But there are other possibilities: an interview with the Sun in London, Beckham hopes to have received an offer from Tijuana, the Mexican team in the league, and does not exclude the possibility of staying in the U.S., not even as a player and as coach, but as the owner a team of Major League. "I will decide calmly after the final, after having rested a little, '" says David to

Sun, and then talks about the size of "surreal" that was his life over the past five years in California. "Every time I drive through Beverly Hills, I have to pinch myself to make sure I'm not dreaming," he says. "The other day I stopped at a traffic light with my kids and I saw Al Pacino cross the street with her children. Unbelievable." The actor of "The Godfather" is not his only acquaintance with Hollywood stars. During a game of the Los Angeles Lakers, where he became fan (to the point of feeling regularly with Kobe Bryant), David at some point need to go to the toilet.The cabinet is closed and he waits. When the door opens, is in front of Jack Nicholson, which makes him one of his smiles and says: "It 's all yours, David." Nevertheless, according to the Sun the call of Europe is stronger and go to Paris would strengthen the "brand" Beckham (composed by David, who is from Victoria) outside the stadiums.

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ENGLAND: Huddersfield make Football League history with win over Notts County

2011-11-19T19:47:00.000-08:00

League One 2011-12

Huddersfield 2	Rhodes 46, Rhodes 65
Notts County 1	Bishop 90+4

Press Association
guardian.co.uk, Saturday 19 November 2011 19.56 GMT
Article history

The Huddersfield manager Lee Clark reflected on 'a very proud day for the football club'. Photograph: Paul Redding/Action Images

League One

Huddersfield made history after breaking the Football League record for the longest unbeaten run following their win over Notts County.

Lee Clark's side equalled the 32-year-old record of 42 games without defeat set by Brian Clough's Nottingham Forest in 1979 when they drew with Walsall a fortnight ago, but they broke that on Saturday thanks to two goals from the highly regarded Jordan Rhodes.

The only blemish on Huddersfield's record is their failure in knockout matches, which cost them promotion last season when they were beaten by Peterborough in the play-off final.

Clark admitted that the prospect of breaking the record might have affected his team against Notts County. "In the first half we were nervy and I felt quite a bit of tension among the team," he told the club's website.

That tension increased when the Huddersfield striker Alan Lee was sent off for violent conduct early in the second half after Rhodes had opened the scoring in the 46th minute. The same player then doubled the lead in the 65th minute.

County pulled back a goal late on through Neal Bishop, but it was not enough to deny second-placed Huddersfield, who remain five points behind the leaders Charlton, whom they meet at The Valley on Monday week.

"In the second-half we showed fantastic spirit – 10 versus 11 – to record a terrific win," said Clark. "The three points is most important thing, but we are also out on our own now in terms of the unbeaten run. It is a very proud day for everyone connected with the club.

"We will enjoy the moment – you to have to celebrate times like these. It looked like at one point that it could go a little bit pear shaped, but the lads stuck at it and worked their tails off."

COMMENTS: Lee Clark has broken the long standing club's unbeaten record which belonged to legendary English coach Brian Clough. A good career sign.

Huddersfield Town 2-1 Notts County | League One match report | Football | The Observer

ENGLAND: Why the Football Association leaving Fabio Capello, ahead of Spain match, at the mercy of Press have culpable recipe for another Euro failure

2011-11-09T09:15:00.000-08:00

COMMENT: Capello is these days a lonely man. Lonelier than he was in the early days of his England reign when the full entourage surrounded him and the Press were lining up for interviews. Four years later The FA is failing to stick near him a proper and media man (rather than a plain translator) who could explain Fabio tackling the ‘ins and outs’ of dealing with a Press turned hostile.

Last example comes from the latest Press conference ahead of the Spain match on November 12. Fabio was asked about Racism in English football and here is where the FA’s shortcomings emerged. (Henry Winter’s article below)

The man belatedly replied according to his Continental stereotyped train of thoughts - deeply eradicated in his success oriented mind, that switches-on like a self-defence mechanism, whenever a ‘panic’ situation turns up – therefore totally denying their existence or knowledge of them.

Football Association's failure being here - like it was perhaps even more shocking in the build up and during the last World Cup campaign – in denying their most successful and winning manager (after Sir Alf Ramsey), to be put in the real conditions to interact and understand the English football culture.

For what I’ve seen and perceived at England’s latest events Fabio’s been abandoned at his own thoughts and - having Franco Baldini already set his sails back for the Continent – he’s been astonishingly left out even from the company of FA’s technical heads Sir Trevor Brooking and Howard Wilkinson. No wonder why Fabio’s thoughts keep rolling back ‘Continental-like’ when asked to answer to situations he can barely perceive and had no hands-on.

Whether FA’s current position is to bet on the present status-quo to have Capello being again, eventually, the literally ‘sacrificial lamb’ when things will inevitably turn sour at the Euro next summer, is perhaps a too cynical assumption to make. Remain however in my opinion the fact that – unless a proper English football culture support will be fixed for Fabio – at his choice obviously – next summer we will see another expensive failure piling up in FA’s coffers.

Lucio Menin

====================================================================

Telegraph’s article

Fabio Capello a lost soul looking for a new leader in English football’s moral maze

Fabio Capello could be forgiven for regarding England as a total soap opera, a team currently bedevilled by red cards, race allegations and poor first touches.

Deja vu: yet again Fabio Capello has to contend with controversy in his camp ahead of an England game Photo: GETTY IMAGES

By Henry Winter

11:00PM GMT 05 Nov 2011

Comment

The contrast with the calm demeanour and technical calibre of this week’s opponents, Spain, the champions of the world and fine ambassadors for the sport, must be painful for Capello to behold.

As he outlined his views on the England squad yesterday, and particularly sought to justify his inclusion of John Terry but not Rio Ferdinand, the Italian was again accompanied by an interpreter; what he really needs is a guide to steer him through the moral maze of English football.

He could not even talk enthusiastically about England’s Euro 2012 base in elegant Krakow without the spectre of the Wags being raised.

Capello was holding court in a boutique hotel on Sloane Square, London. Across the road the Royal Court theatre was showing the play “Jumpy”, a description well-suited to Football Association officials as the Terry race row intensifies.

Such is the seriousness of the claim against Terry, who is alleged to have racially abused QPR’s Anton Ferdinand, that the FA has been ordered to place on hold its investigation until the Met have completed their own.

Terry to be named in England squad 05 Nov 2011
Fifa confirm England poppy 'ban' 05 Nov 2011
Rooney to appear before Uefa 04 Nov 2011
FA appeal Wayne Rooney ban 04 Nov 2011
Tony Fernandes: Terry should retain captaincy 04 Nov 2011
Rooney: I was stupid picking up red card 04 Nov 2011

Rightly so. Police inquiries must take precedence over those of the footballing authorities.

Controversy stalks England players, and Capello must wonder about their minds at times.

Yet any sympathy for the Italian evaporated when he touched on the sensitive question of whether the English game was stained with any racism. “I never see,’’ replied Capello.

“I never heard. I never found racism problems in England football. OK. The fans never boo. Never. Racist problems between the players do not exist in my experience.’’

Leaving aside the raw issue of any racist tension between players, this was an extraordinary comment for Capello to make. Thirty seconds sifting through the detritus that can silt up some Twitter timelines would make him realise a problem exists.

Thirty seconds in the company of the hard-working campaigners at Kick It Out might enlighten him.

Maybe Capello did not notice the anti-racism T-shirts worn by players last week or the badges on managers’ lapels. Maybe he should have a chat with Rio Ferdinand, who has eloquently spoken out against racism in the past.

Capello did meet with Ferdinand at Sir Alex Ferguson’s celebratory dinner on Thursday, explaining why he was not picking him. Just as Capello’s view of racism in English football raised eyebrows amongst his small audience on Sloane Square so did the inconsistencies riddling his argument over Ferdinand’s exclusion.

“I spoke with Rio,’’ began Capello. “I told him: ‘Rio, I read what Sir Alex said about you, I think you need to play games.’

"He told me: ‘Yes I need to play because I need to find good form.’ I told him ‘you are always one of the best centre-backs’. I hope that he will be fit and in good form for the Euros.’’ Yet Ferdinand has started three of United’s last four games.

Capello was asked whether he had omitted Ferdinand, Anton’s brother, to avoid any problem in the camp with Terry, whether he was simply hiding behind Ferguson’s comments that Ferdinand had not been in the best of form.

“No. Sir Alex knows everything about him. He can see every day during training. It’s not excuses. It’s real what happened.

He needs more games.’’ So why not give him some games with England? So it was nothing to do with Rio being Anton’s brother. “No.”

Where Capello certainly avoids any censure is in the sad reality that England lack leaders.

“I know. I need to choose a captain. I picked John Terry, then Rio, then Steve (Gerrard), the fourth was Frank Lampard. I prepare for four captains. I thought it was enough. Did I need to find 11 captains?”

Capello envisages Phil Jones taking the armband at some point. “I think so. In the future. Also Jack Wilshere.’’ Ashley Cole? “He doesn’t like to be a captain.’’

Wayne Rooney would have been considered as captain but has been rested as Capello assesses alternative attacking options to use at Euro 2012 during Rooney’s group-stage suspension. Capello was at Old Trafford on Wednesday, admiring Rooney’s excellence in central midfield against Galati.

“He can play there because he moves the ball quickly, straight to the goal,’’ said Capello. “But I prefer to see Rooney close to the box. He’s dangerous, can do assists, score goals. It’s better. He’s happy, I spoke to him and said what do you think about your position?

He said I got a lot of passes but I prefer (upfront).’’ England’s manager admitted that there was a danger of facing Spain without Rooney, one of his few top-class players. “It’s a risk! But it will be very important to understand the value of the other players.’’ Daniel Sturridge and Danny Welbeck will both feature at some point.

Capello likes Sturridge’s versatility. “He’s an interesting player and a player who scores goals. He has improved a lot. I saw him play right wing, left wing, centre forwards.’’ Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, Arsenal’s teenaged attacker, is also under consideration.

Risking ridicule, Capello suggested that his better players could get into Spain’s team. “The top England players can play,’’ he ventured before acknowledging the opposition’s class. “The Spanish now have a lot of top players. You can see from the Ballon d’Or (nominations).

Spain have got four players that make the difference: Xavi, Iniesta, Cesc Fabregas, Silva.’’ England players could do with some of their composure on and off the pitch. The soap opera continues.

Possible squad: Hart, Green, Carson; Walker, Johnson, Cahill, Jagielka, Jones, Terry, Lescott, A Cole, Baines; Parker, Lampard, Rodwell, Barry, Milner, Walcott, Downing, Adam Johnson; Bent, Carroll, Sturridge, Welbeck, Zamora

FOOTBALL REPORT: Why the Football Association leaving Fabio Capello, ahead of Spain match, at the mercy of marauding Press is a culpable recipe for another Euro failure:

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Ademir to Zizinho: A History of World Football in 100 Games - Part 21...

2011-10-19T08:51:00.000-07:00

Ademir to Zizinho: A History of World Football in 100 Games - Part 21...: Italy 4-2 Hungary (19 June 1938) Colombes, Paris Following Italy’s triumph at home in 1934, the honour of hosting the third World Cup was g...

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FIFA Colombia U20 World Cup: England's debut hopes held in North Korea draw

2011-07-30T04:54:00.000-07:00

COMMENT: Brian Eastick and Stuart Pierce's England had a stuttering debut however - it must be said - they could not field about three dozens players who would have been eligible for the squad and who were withheld by their professional clubs for early season training.

Elsewhere next England's opponent Argentina had a strong start whilst another tournament favorite Brazil was forced to a draw with Egypt. The tournament is being staged at eight venues in Colombia and ends Aug. 20.

MEDELLIN, Colombia (AP)—England was held to a 0-0 draw by North Korea on Friday in the opening game of the Under-20 World Cup.

England had the better chances with Saido Berahino, Matthew Phillips and Billy Knott coming close. Jong Il Gwan and Pak Song Chol probably had the best shots for North Korea, the under-19 Asian champions. England is fielding an under-strength team.

About three dozens English players who would have been eligible for the squad were withheld by their clubs for early season training. The tournament is being staged at eight venues in Colombia and ends Aug. 20.

In other first-round matches Friday, Egypt and Brazil tied 1-1, Austria and Panama drew 0-0 and Argentina beat Mexico 1-0. At Barranquilla, Danilo gave Brazil a 1-0 lead in the 12th minute with a header from a corner, but Egypt’s Omar Gaber tied it in the 26th minute.

At Cartagena, Panama goalkeeper Luis Mejia made a handful of difficult saves to keep Panama in the match. His best save came in the 54th minute when he pulled off an impressive block on a shot by Daniel Offenbacher.

At Medellin, Erik Lamela’s goal from 20 meters in the 71st minute lifted Argentina. Mexico seemed to have scored in the 48th minute when Alan Pulido chipped the ball behind keeper Esteban Andrada, but the play was correctly ruled offside.

FIFA U20 WCup - World Soccer - Yahoo! Sports

FIFA chief in full swing moralisation drive: Sepp Blatter sides with England in Ricardo Teixeira row

2011-07-29T03:56:00.001-07:00

Sepp Blatter has taken steps to repair FIFA's damaged relationship with the FA, following his criticism of Brazilian football chief Ricardo Teixeira.

COMMENT: I have finally been introduced to Sepp Blatter a fortnight ago. Actually he was extremely kind and firstly offered his hand. I had the sure impression he is no devil. We have a little chat on which I will report next.

A lot of malignity has been written about him albeit he offered the chances to. Now it seems he has realised he needs to stay with the prevailing opinions, like with the introduction of the Goa-line technology. Come on then Sepp....let's sort out things now.

Lucio Menin

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GettyImagesSepp Blatter has tried to defuse FIFA's row with the FA

LONDON. Teixeira was reported to be furious at claims that he asked for bribes to back England's 2018 World Cup bid and had vowed to make life difficult for England during the 2014 World Cup, but Blatter has refused to condone his actions.

"I have noted what was said and will speak to him but I am not everyone's conscience," FIFA president Blatter said.

"What Teixeira said is not in the spirit of my fair play. I have [also] met FA chairman David Bernstein and we had a good positive meeting. We connected with each other. I am the president of all associations, not just the ones who voted for me."

And although the issue of corruption may still be unfolding, Blatter has tried to minimise any future damage and insisted: "I have never been on anyone's pay roll. I have been involved with FIFA for 36 years and what has been said about me has hurt.

"Some people became obsessed at criticising me. I have to prove to the world that we have the instruments to face the problems."

There is further controversy in Brazil surrounding Teixeira and the 2014 World Cup draw, where national hero Pele has been snubbed following a fall-out with Teixeira.

(Source: ESPN-Soccernet)

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AUDI CUP: Alcantara's magics deliver another Cup to Barcelona

2011-07-28T12:39:00.002-07:00

Barcelona lifted the 2011 Audi Cup after defeating hosts Bayern Munich 2-0 in the final at the Allianz Arena.

by Lucio Menin

LONDON. Two goals from young playmaker Thiago Alcantara, fresh UEFA Euro U21 winner and tournament's best player, who proved - as he did last month in Denmark, - to make the difference as the 20-year-old fast looking like another world-class product of Barcelona's fabled youth system.

The Audi Cup, first contested in 2009 and won by hosts Bayern Munich after a penalty shootout against Manchester United in the final, is a two-day tournament featuring four of the biggest names in world club football.

Bayern's tactics were surprisingly quite supine in the first half although they had the best chances before Alcantara's first goal at the end of the first half. Bayern's coach left out nine from its AC Milan line up and that probably was too much as replacements were not good enough to contrast the European Champions, who - whilst shuffling as well their starting line up - proved however at the end to be of a better quality.

Probably these day teams are so scared of Barca's fabled passing that are avoiding any pressuring at all. Perhaps an high pressing on the defenders could at least disturb Barca build up which last night was impressive.

Meanwhile in the third place playoff Brazil's Internacional edged out AC Milan on penalties after a 2-2 draw in normal time. Goals from Milan's Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Alexandre Pato were cancelled out by Leandro Damiao and Andres D'Alessandro, before Milan missed all four penalties in the shoot-out to gift Internacional third place.

AC Milan threw away his chances to be in the final when his Italy's U21 striker Paloschi felt the emotion and blasted over the bar the fifth penalty revealing an unexpected character's fragility from an international. Things then went far worse last night as all the 'Rossoneri' takers missed their penalty even including specialist Antonio Cassano. Coach Allegri has some work still to do then especially under the determination aspects.

(Source: ITV.com/football)

COPA AMERICA: Ten lessons learned from as glory comes at last for Oscar Tabarez

2011-07-26T14:21:00.001-07:00

COMMENT: Oscar Tabarez has finally tasted at the age of 64 his ‘sweet revenge’ in the harsh football world. It was 15 years ago when only after 11 games he was unceremoniously dismissed by the then omnipotent AC Milan mogul Silvio Berlusconi who only in the summer gave the rising Uruguayan ‘Professor’ (He has got a teaching Degree') the multi-titled ‘Rossoneri’’s helm after Fabio Capello departed for the first Real Madrid glory.

Despite two great seasons with Serie A side Cagliari the ‘Professor’ moved at the ‘Cavaliere’’s court accompanied by much scepticism. ‘Tabarez who? A San Remo singer?’ kept joking the the Milanesi’s boss before his signing’s announcement. And perhaps this initial sceptic was the cause he could impose his idea to a team full of glory aces (Baggio, Davids, Kluivert and the others 95’s Ajax crop).

In fact his 4-4-2 was the largest and most rigid I’ve ever seen but now I know why. It was because he was undermined by the exigent property used to such a coaching giants genius like Arrigo Sacchi (the inventor of 4-4-2) and the one soon to be Don Fabio.

It has then been a long journey than for the good Oscar who came close to another ‘Celeste’ world glory in last year’s South Africa tournament. A journey that will teach all the coaches of the world his humble ‘motto’..’Even if you are the best never believe you are’

Lucio Menin

LONDON. After three weeks of big upsets, dodgy pitches and Uruguayan victories (Pictured above the final’s triumph ritual of Cup kissing) South American football expert Jonathan Wilson gives us ten of the most important themes to take away from the 2011 Copa America.

1. Tactics matter
There have been few sides with a greater depth of attacking talent than Argentina, and few who have used it so badly. The frustration felt by the hosts was not just rooted in their quarter-final absence, but in the knowledge that generations like this come round infrequently and that Sergio Batista’s lack of tactical acumen has cost them. Presumably those who still argue it’s just about picking the best players missed Argentina’s shambolic showing because they were trawling mill-towns smashing spinning jennies.

2. There are no minnows in South America any more
The big guns may not have fired, but the medium guns have, while Venezuela are far from the whipping-boys they once were. There is genuine strength in depth in Conmebol, and World Cup qualifying, with four automatic slots and a play-off spot to be divided among nine (with Brazil qualifying automatically as hosts) should be fascinating.

3. Chile will never win anything until they learn to defend set-pieces
Chile were the most attractive side in the tournament, and they battered Venezuela in the second half of their quarter-final, but they were undone by their inability to defend set-plays. Too many soft goals conceded means a team is always playing catch-up.

4. Never let the public pick your team for you
They vote for the wrong people as man of the match and demand glamorous players are selected to the detriment if the team unit (yes, Carlos Tevez; that means you). Leave it to the experts.

5. The two invitees must bring full-strength sides
Inviting Mexico and Costa Rica (after Japan’s withdrawal) to make up the numbers might have made a certain sense, but both brought under-strength sides because of their involvement in the Gold Cup. When scandal further weakened Mexico, they were barely even a shadow side. Both went home after the group stage. Invitees, surely, must be able to compete. That said, there are plans afoot to expand the tournament to 16 with six Concacaf sides.

6. No matter how deep the moat, a dog can still find its way onto the pitch
The dog that performed a lap of honour before trotting off down the tunnel produced probably the one memorable moment of Brazil’s 0-0 draw against Venezuela.

7. Oscar Washington Tabarez is probably the most flexible tactician in the world
Uruguay can play 4-3-3, 4-4-2 or with three at the back, according to circumstance. His tweaks have made an essentially average bunch of players (plus Luis Suarez and Diego Forlan) a truly formidable side.

8. The pitch is the most important part of a stadium
The pitch in La Plata was a lumpy bog, given a sheen of levelness by the copious use of green sand. It ruined every match played there and got Argentina and Brazil off to poor starts.

9. South America suffers a dearth of good attacking full-backs
Brazil and Uruguay had them, but nobody else did, which was one of thereasons massed defences were so successful; it was very difficult to change the angle of attack or to overman in wide areas.

10. There is such a thing as too much steak
No, really, there is. I can’t wait for something with some spice. (Keep the malbec flowing, though...)

lessons learned from the Copa America | ITV Sport - Football

2011 Copa America: Uruguay v Paraguay. Final’s preview

2011-07-23T18:35:00.001-07:00

COMMENT: Tomorrow’s final is the 70th meeting between Uruguay and Paraguay. La Celeste hold sway with 28 wins to La Albirroja’s 26, with the other 15 games ending in draws. FIFA.com and South American football expert Jonathan Wilson analyse tomorrow's Copa America final between Uruguay and Paraguay, in a piece exclusive to ITV Football. ''On Sunday they face Paraguay, who in their refusal to lose have become the Rasputin of the competition'' are his 'perceived' predictions to which we totally agree. At the last year's World Cup in South Africa Gerardo Martino's squad was one of the hardest to beat and they went out rather undeservedly. This could be, like for last week's Women's World Cup, their driving factor beyond success.

LONDON. Uruguay and Paraguay will go head-to-head in tomorrow’s eagerly awaited Copa America final. As well as the prestige of succeeding Brazil as champions, the winners will also secure a berth at the FIFA Confederations Cup Brazil 2013, the final dress rehearsal for the FIFA World Cup™ the following year.

The Match: Uruguay v Paraguay, Estadio Monumental, Buenos Aires, Sunday 24 July, ) KO 4pm (local time)

The stakes

In search of their 15th Copa America crown, unbeaten Uruguay reached the final with an impressive 2-0 defeat of Peru in the semi-finals and have maintained the core of the team that finished fourth at South Africa 2010. La Albirroja have also yet to lose a game but have failed to win one either, ousting Brazil and Venezuela on penalties in the quarters and semis respectively, becoming the first team ever to reach the final with five consecutive draws.

La Celeste have not lost to the Paraguayans in the Copa America since going down 4-2 in 1947, although Los Guaraníes have won four of the five meetings between the countries in Buenos Aires. The team news is that Paraguay coach Gerardo Martino has a full squad to choose from, with the exception of Roque Santa Cruz, who is struggling once more with injury. “It would be torture to watch the final from the sidelines,” said the luckless striker, who needs just one more goal to become the country’s all-time leading goalscorer. As for Uruguay, Diego Perez is available again having served a one-match suspension for his dismissal against Argentina.

The duel

Luis Suarez vs Justo Villar This battle within a battle pits a fearless finisher against an unbeatable goalkeeper. The Liverpool front man is the competition’s joint-highest scorer with three goals, while the new Estudiantes custodian has gone 280 minutes without conceding and made vital stops in Paraguay’s penalty shoot-out wins in the previous two rounds. The outcome in this fascinating showdown could well decide the fate of the title.

Did you know?

Uruguay’s last five Copa America triumphs have all come the year after a FIFA World Cup: 1959, 1967, 1983, 1987 and 1995. Will La Celeste keep the sequence going in 2011?

The stats

70 - Sunday’s final is the 70th meeting between Uruguay and Paraguay. La Celeste hold sway with 28 wins to La Albirroja’s 26, with the other 15 games ending in draws.

What they said

“Paraguay have the same expectations and the same dream as we do. Both teams want to play football and it’s going to be a great battle and an intense game,”
Uruguay captain Diego Lugano

“Uruguay are getting stronger as the tournament goes on and they played their best game in the semis against Peru. Paraguay are doing things the other way round but when you’re going for a title as important as this, that doesn’t really matter so much,”
Paraguay coach Gerardo Martino

ITV’s Jonathan Wilson on Uruguay chances

For Uruguay (Pictured above courtesy of ITV.com) history beckons. If they beat Paraguay in the final of the Copa America, they will take the title for a record 15th time, surpassing the hosts Argentina. The whole of the rest of the continent has won the tournament only 13 times between them. For a nation with a population of just 3.5million – it might have won it twice, but it remains the sixth smallest country ever to qualify for a World Cup – that is a remarkable record.

What is even more remarkable is how far adrift Uruguay had slipped. By the mid-eighties, its football had become a byword for thuggery, seen most strikingly in the 1986 World Cup, at which Jose Batista was, infamously, sent off after 52 seconds of the group game against Scotland. What they needed was a hero, somebody with the intellectual and moral credentials to restore self-respect and success. It’s become a cliché to describe managers as Messiahs but, really, what else is Oscar Washington Tabarez? He began to restore their reputation at the 1990 World Cup and, since his return to the national team in 2006, has overseen a radical improvement.

Tabarez is known as El Maestro because he used to be a schoolteacher, but the nickname conveys far more than that. He is one of football’s philosophers, a man who speaks in paragraphs not soundbites. On the wall of his house in Montevideo is a line from Che Guevara: “One must toughen oneself without ever losing tenderness.” It sums up his approach to football.

Uruguay has always prided itself on its “garra” - a word that translates literally as “claw”, but which, in a football context, has come to mean a combination of hardness, resolve and streetwiseness – believing it is that that has made it so disproportionately successful. By the mid-eighties it was being used to legitimise brutality, but Tabarez has worked hard to establish a new interpretation.

His Uruguay is tough. They make tackles. They defend when necessary

Watch Diego Lugano or Sebastian Coates marking a forward and you see constant nudging and jostling, the sort of attritional physicality that eventually led Peru’s Juan Vargas to snap and plant his elbow in Coates’s face in the semi-final. If a goalbound shot is about to deny them a place in a World Cup semi-final, their players will block it with their hands and then celebrate the fact, as Luis Suarez did against Ghana last year. But they also accommodate the intelligence and creativity of Diego Forlan, the energetic attacking of Alvaro Perreira and the cunning of Suarez. Even with Edinson Cavani, prolific at Napoli last season, out of form and then injured, they were able to cope.

“We’ve got much more to give, and we hope to give it on Sunday,” said Lugano. “Historically we’re going from less to more, and we did that as well at the World Cup.” He was sceptical, though, about suggestions that the map of South America football has been changed. “Maybe it’s become harder to get good results against us,” Lugano said. And that probably is the key lesson of the tournament: South America’s lesser lights have become more organised. The likes of Venezuela and Ecuador, minnows two decades ago, are now serious teams. And that means that if Brazil or Argentina underperform, other sides will step up.

Uruguay, with their great history, perhaps occupy a halfway house between the Big Two and the rest, but on Sunday they face Paraguay, who in their refusal to lose have become the Rasputin of the competition. They went through a similar process to Uruguay in the early nineties under Sergio Markarian, the Uruguayan who coached Peru at this tournament and whose influence endures. The worry for Uruguay is that in the final, they’ll be facing a version of themselves, the foundations laid by one of their own.

Live - FIFA WOMEN's WORLD CUP Germany 2011:THE FINAL JAPAN 2-2 (3-1 aet) USA. JAPAN are the new WORLD CHAMPIONS

2011-07-17T11:44:00.000-07:00

Lucio Menin reporting

Weather conditions: Cloudy 14 Celsius. Pitch: perfectly protected by roof cover.

FRANKFURT. The best Women World Cup I can remember has started with all the grand football echelons present. Sepp Blatter in a smashing form, Michel Platini and German Prime Minister Angela Merkel all have come to glorify this female football turning point event. Fans of both sides are sharing the idyllically Closing Ceremony atmosphere in the Stadium (Video and Picture/ Cse ltd)

Match Report:

Japan started rumbling the first 8' minutes. However no chances were created due to a not surprising tiredness which however was also shown by the Americans.

8' USA started an impressing 'surge' first with a missed connection in front of the goal with her lethal striker Cheney.

12' Lloyd had a fabulous chance to score being free to kick from just around the spot kick but instead she blasted over the bar.

20' USA superiority boost ended after another chance this time by the new entry Rapinoe.

Japan has been surprisingly caught almost idle by all that period with all passes either being intercepted or out of measure, too long for the striker to get on it. Then impression is they look to pay the precious effort.

28' A faulty challenge by Kinga left Wambach to ride free towards the box and then just inside made a great shot that beat Kaihori only to be deflected by the bar.

Japan had a fabulous chance again with Ando around the half hour who went through free but

just as said before she lacked reflex and passed literally the ball to the keeper.

1st Half Statistic

Japan /Key/ USA

53%/Ball possession/ 475

5-1/ Shots-Shot on goal/ 12-1

Second half

Period begins with USA coach Sundhage replacing disappointing Lauren Cheney with Alex Morgan.

69' Goaaall Alex Morgan of USA. There was an USA counter break that found Japanese defense flat ( They were forcing a 3-3-4 tactics) Morgan freed herself by manhandling the defender to finish on the far post. Japan had better chance up to that moment but it seems that despite a brilliant second half beginning they are not as sharp as on the two previous matches.

81' Gooooaal for Japan Having said that 12' later they equalised following a brilliant attack that was defectively cleared by the USA defence with Aya Miyama.

90' Referee Bibiana Steinhaus whistle the end of regular time. Not exempt from being too lenient over Laws interpretations whenever physicality was involved. She is perhaps forgetting she directing a women's game not the Bundesliga 2nd Division.

104' After a period of Japan supremacy the American scored following a sloppy defending on the left flank that allowed a player to get in the box and cross. Abby Wambach was there when a tired defender missed to intercept to head in .

117' Goooall for Japan. following a 1v1 with the goalkeeper japan had a corner and the ball was headed in again by their captain Sawa

119' Iwashimizu sent off following a doubious challenge on Wambach.

120' End of Extra time. Penalties now

After the penalties (3-1) JAPAN are the new WORLD CHAMPIONS

World Football Report - From the Publishers of 1st Interactive Journal. Established 1992. Copyright 2008 -2010 C.S.E. Limited. All rights reserved. Unauthorized reproductions of any part forbidden.

Fifa Women's World Cup Semi-final FT Oqvist 10', Kawasumi18', 64 , Sawa 60' JAPAN 3-1 SWEDEN from Frankfurt am Main FIFA Women's World Cup Stadium

2011-07-13T11:51:00.000-07:00

Lucio Menin reporting

Weather condition; rained all day but the most modern Stadium in the world has full cover. Pitch condition; perfectly dry. Temperature 17 Celsius. Spectators: 44,413

Formations:

JAPAN (4-4-2)

Kaihori (GK);

Kinga, Iwashimuzu, Kumagai, Sameshima; Ohno, Sakaguchi, Sawa, Miyama;

Ando, Kawasumi;

Coach: Norio Sasaki

SWEDEN (4-4-2

Lindhal (GK);

Svensson, Larsson, Rohlin, Thunebro; Forsberg, Seger, Dahlkvist, Sjogran; Schelin, Oqvist
Coach: Thomas Dennerby

FRANKFURT. 10' and Sweden is 1-0 up thanks to a lapse of the Japanese defence that allowed the blonde Swede to enter alone in the box on the left side and then slinging it over Kaihori on the far post. Great goal. Japan had had the superiority of play since the beginning and just before conceading they had themselves a chance with they most representative player, Miyama.

18' Gooaal by Japan. Miyama again on the left put in a perfectly weighted cross for striker Kawasumi to headed in the net despite being shoved in the back by her marker.

(Pictures: Sweden fans and teams lined up at the national hymn/ Cse Ltd)

Half time has gone with Japan in firm control of the game. Better passing and perhaps reasoning from the 'little soldiers' of 'sergeant' Sasaki. A good display of discipline and tactics accompanied by good control and finishing skills. Now they are at their easiest like in the Germany game.

Sweden need to get more though and getting forward but impression is they are afraid of getting caught out.

Second Half

Japan leading the play again in the second half with their organised movement in short spaces. Sweden and in particular their lethal striker Lotta Schelin are totally absent victim of what could have been another management misjudgment like the Germans did before them to have underestimated the Rising Sun ladies.

In fact they scored again on the:

60' Following a long passing action which ended up on the right almost at the corner flag; from there after a skillful control the ball was shuffled on the other side and when the shot re- bounced the captain Sawa was the quickest on the second ball to head on an empty net.

64' lethal striker Kawasumi jumped on a rushed clearance from the Swedish keeper who came out of the box to stop a deep attack and lobbied it on an empty net from 35 yards sending the Stadium in delirium.

86' Another lethal counter by the Japanese, this time with substitute Nagasato - who entered for double scorer Kawasumi who had left greeted by the spectators' ovation - alone in front of the keeper but her shot went deflected.

FT: JAPAN are at their first Women World Cup Final to be played on Sunday against the USA which had beaten FRANCE 3-1 earlier in Moenchengladbach

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‘Fall of the Gods’ at FIFA Women’s World Cup as BRAZIL too crashes out after shocking exits of favourite GERMANY and ENGLAND

2011-07-11T04:08:00.000-07:00

Lucio Menin reporting

LEVERKUSEN. The Gods of Women’s football have fallen this weekend in Germany in a thrilling quarter final round results which have enthralled and later shocked hundreds of millions of viewers around the globe.

Women’s football after a shaking beginning have finally hit ‘mass level’ at this perfectly organized FIFA World Cup which will be perhaps forever remembered as the turning point for Women’s football.

Sustained by an impressing advertising campaign along all Germany’s bordering countries it managed to produces an astonishing spectacle at opening game at the Berlin’s Olympic Stadium were almost one hundred thousands spectators filled in the historical ground with passion and colours.

That was mostly a female public but surprisingly enough that dragged with them children and husbands revealing what a key factor this could be in the future for the overall football movement in the world.

The sad thing is that England audiences have been unfairly deprived of this spectacle. The BBC in fact was only broadcasting England's matches on the so called ‘Red Button’ which stands for the interactive channel which timetable it is not even reported by the majority of national newspapers TV guides.

That has lead to an average audience of 1-2 millions viewers per-game compared to the dozen it could have achieved on their main channels. It has been an unjustified betrayal for the FA and the all English Women football movement which has just seen the Super-League launched.

Remains the fact the ‘Beeb’ has lost an unique chance to boost the sport in view of next year’s Olympics where hear-hear, the German squad will not be taking part.

Check the Live Match Report of Saturday's ENG v FRA World Cup Quarter Final in Leverkusen on the adjacent Twitter roll.

Read more about the Tournament here below

Hope Powell slams England women's World Cup penalty 'cowardice' - ESPN Soccernet

COPA AMERICA: Bolivia 0-2 Costa Rica. Match report

2011-07-08T07:06:00.000-07:00

Costa Rica got off the mark in this year's Copa America with a win that leaves hosts Argentina in trouble in Group A with a game to play.

LONDON. Finally a some goals on this edition of a so far deluding and 'goalless' Copa America. The youthful Ticos scored twice after half-time as Bolivia lost their focus and had two men sent off. Goals from Josue Martinez and the outstanding Joel Campbell were the difference, although the main talking point was the impact the win had on Argentina.

With two draws from their two games it is win or bust from their final group meeting with Costa Rica, who know a draw will be enough to take them through. Martinez went close to opening the scoring midway through the first half when his back-post header was deflected over, before Diego Madrigal could not get his feet straight after breaking behind the Bolivia defence.

Costa Rica continued to impress after the break and they deservedly went ahead in the 59th minute when Martinez netted his second international goal. Heiner Mora's shot was saved by Carlos Arias but the ball fell perfectly for Martinez who slotted into an open goal.

Read more here below>
Report: Bolivia v Costa Rica - Copa America - ESPN Soccernet

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English FA restructures its Coaches Association (Video)

2011-07-07T13:10:00.001-07:00

All coaches from across all level of qualification are eligible to be part of the new Licenced Coaches Club which replaces current FACA and costs just £ 12 to affiliate.

Amongst the many benefits free access to England games (in reality it is an half-hearted move as there will be a ballot among applicants Clearly Fabio's influence is evident in this move being the rule in Italy a norm not only for coaches but for referees too) says Gareth Southgate the newly appointed head of FA's Elite Development.

EXCLUSIVE ! Another victory for 'Football's Myth' Gentile. This time in Tribunal against Italian FA

2011-06-06T10:19:00.000-07:00

Victory in Court for Claudio Gentile, the former Italy legend and U21 coach, as Roman judges decided his employment case to follow Civil Law procedures rather than be referred to a Sport Justice Tribunal.

by Lucio Menin

LONDON. The judges so decided last week following a three years long decision due to a FIGC (Italian FA) appeal. The news may not be well received by the Italian Football Association as FIFA rules are binding over these cases that need to be solved throughout Sport Justice tribunals rather than Ordinary Justice.

The judges so decided following the 2008 case brought by 'football's myth' Italy's 1982 world champion defender Claudio Gentile, 58 (Pictured in a recent charity match/ Courtesy of TuttoMercatoWeb.com), so called by in 'awe' Tottenham Hotspur manager Harry Redknapp when the two met in February at the Spur's Milan hotel in occasion of their Champions League challenge against AC Milan.

The case brought to the attention of the Tribunal is regarding the compensation for the unjustified sacking as U21 manager in 2006 at the time when the Italian Association was under 'Commissioner' adminstration following the 'Calciopoli' scandal.

Gentile was then taken in consideration by the FA's committee to replace Marcello Lippi at the helm of the Nazionale as the latter seemed allegedly involved with the scandal, which bursted in February 2006, but who eventually resigned for a two years sabbatical period after the Germany World Cup victory.

Gentile, who at the time had a pre-contract agreement with Juventus, was first told to still be in charge for the new two years period (2006-2008) by Commissioner Guido Rossi and by his technical adviser Demetrio Albertini and to wait for the contract's signing.

Later Albertini told him instead they had new ideas (Roberto Donadoni at the senior team and Pierluigi Casiraghi at the U21 with the badge-less Gianfranco Zola) and he was sacked. Italy has never won again an UEFA tournament since.

The former Varese, Juventus, Fiorentina and Piacenza defender beside the contractual loss and career damages of about Euros 1.5 Mil is now also seeking payment for the 2004 Olympic Bronze medal conquest, the first and so far the last obtained by an Italian team since the 1936 legendary Vittorio Pozzo's team gold medal in Berlin.

Gentile made his request immediately after his Athens' Bronze only to be reassured by the two highest FIGC executives, Franco Carraro, President of the FIFA Auditing Committee and by Giancarlo Abete, an UEFA Vice-President, that the contractual award will be included on the next contract (2006-08).

In the 'Gold Quest' Italy was defeated in the semis by Carlo Tevez and Xavier Mascherano's Argentina, eventually winners, supported behind scenes by the powerful and influencing presence of FIFA Ex Co. and Finance C.tee President Julio Grondona whilst the Italian squad could only count on...beaches's greetings cards from the FIGC's echelons as tournament was played in August. 'We should have had a penalty early in the match' Gentile recalls and 'We could still have made it' he concludes with his indomitous defiancy.

The Tribunal decision sounds like a defeat for FIGC President Giancarlo Abete who just last week told World Football Report at the FIFA Congress that ''I had always admired and respected Claudio Gentile for his merit and integrity however his and the beliefs of his advisers to have suffered an economic loss with the - at the time FIGC Administration (2006)- is crashing with our position which sees the all issue with a different angle as to the FIGC it does not appear there have been infringments of our contractual obbligations.''

Contacted by World Football Report the 'Terrible Saladin' has instead told us that he had recently received an independent and not solicited opinion from one of the country's major layers and penalist expert that his case could be also configured as of 'persecution' by the Italian Football Association.

Claudio Gentile after his playing days - which never really ended as his innate passion had him involved for years with international national beach soccer and futsal - entered football management as Director of Football at AC Lecco, my old big timer club.

After scouting for years for Giovanni Trapattoni's Juventus FC (Discovering the likes of Moreno Torricelli from Non-League football and sounding the talent of German international Stephan Reuter) he in was put in charge of Italy U20 in 1998 and promoted as Giovanni Trapattoni's national team assistant - coach the following year.

'The 'Trap' would have told me 'Do the defence set up' and I would have done it.' he recalls. I remainded him that the also legendary Pippo Inzaghi went publicly grateful to him after a 2002 World Cup qualifier against Romania at the San Siro 'Yes, because a told him to score he needed to do a certain movement' he says proudly.

But 'Wasn't it better if you had stayed within the national team set up as Trapattoni's assistant?' I said trying to clear an old doubt of mine. Then I further dare to ask him 'Didn't they (Italian FA) guaranteed you a future return to the senior team as a coach when they asked you to take charge of the U21?' I saw his nostrills fuming whilst his eyes were launching flamed darts as he snapped back with a 'I remember you more advanced' (He was right as I had myself some lost years with the English FA).

He than continued 'No they do not do it because that's the way to get there'.'The U21 has always hystorically been the path for the future Italy's manager of the past from Valcareggi, Bearzot, Vicini and Maldini onwards'.'No, I believe it was a choice done to put me on the track but obvsiously you have to win' he concluded. Gentile won but he didn't get the job. And Trapattoni tried to having him back at the Irish FA but he refused. Determination.

World Football Report - From the Publishers of 1st Interactive Journal. Established 1992. Copyright 2008 -2011 C.S.E. Limited. All rights reserved. Unauthorized reproductions of any part forbidden.

Warner decides not to start 'football tsunami' - World Soccer - Yahoo! Sports

2011-06-05T17:08:00.000-07:00

COMMENT: What happened then to the ‘deep throat’ or ‘whistleblower’ who according to Swiss newspaper ‘Sport & Wirschaft’ was to have a 2.00 pm press conference at a Zurich Grand Hotel on Tuesday 31 May promising to materialise the ‘Tsunami’ by revealing emails and bank accounts details of about $20Mils payments to four Fifa Executives? Let’s see if the Ethics Committee will at least require to see the ones Jack Walker’s is ‘bragging’ about here below?

CHAGUANAS, Trinidad, June 5 (Reuters) - Suspended FIFA vice-president Jack Warner has backed down for legal reasons from his threat to reveal the content of emails with the ruling body’s president Sepp Blatter.

Warner had promised a “football tsunami” would follow his suspension by FIFA’s Ethics committee last week but on Sunday he produced little more than a gentle Caribbean breeze.

In a brief speech in his constituency on Sunday, Warner, also Ministers of Works and Transport for Trinidad and Tobago, reiterated his innocence but said he would not be making public the emails after discussions with his lawyers.

“I had plans to speak to you today a bit more on this matter but the best legal advice I received has suggested that I do not do so at this point in time and that advice I am going to respect,” he told supporters from his party at a public rally.

Warner, also president of CONCACAF, the regional body for football in North and Central America and the Caribbean, has been suspended pending a full investigation by FIFA into allegations that bribery took place at a meeting he organised with Mohammed Bin Hammam.

The meeting in Trinidad involving Bin Hammam, the head of the Asian Football Confederation, was related to the Qatari’s presidential election campaign against Blatter.

“I haven’t thieved anything, I haven’t given anybody anything and I don’t know what the hullaballoo is all about,” Warner said.

Responding to calls by one of the major partners in the coalition government and by the opposition for him to step down pending FIFA’s investigations into the allegations, Warner said his FIFA position never interfered with his government work.

But he told supporters, “if it comes to a choice between FIFA and you, the choice is you.”

Bin Hammam has also been suspended from all football activities and, like Warner, has denied any wrongdoing.

Blatter was re-elected as FIFA president last week at a congress overshadowed by bribery and corruption allegations.

(Reporting by Linda Hutchinson-Jafar in Chaguanas; writing by Simon Evans in Dallas, editing by Ed Osmond, To query or comment on this story email sportsfeedback@thomsonreuters.com)

Euro 2012 qualifier: England 2-2 Switzerland(Highlights)England’s goalkeepers crisis can undermine Capello’s Euro.

2011-06-05T05:47:00.000-07:00

COMMENT: In the empirical world of old that ruled building up winning squads it was said you need to have two major players in it. A great striker could be worth 50% and a great goalkeeper the remaining half. Empirical that was but however still true in the scientific environment football has dipped itself with Labs-training grounds were algorithms, cameras and software analyse and set teams and players physical and tactical performances.

Joe Hart’s sudden rise is forcing him paying on his approximated technique which should instead succoured him at times when momentum has dipped. It has for long now as Man City’s Mancini have tried to hide it at least since January. But after yesterday blunders the cry of exposure like in the fairy tale ‘The Emperor’s clothes’ seem reverberant down Wembley's walls.

Lucio Menin

Lacklustre England limp to Swiss draw

LONDON. England dropped two precious points in their bid to reach next summer’s European Championship finals after a 2-2 draw with Switzerland at Wembley. It meant a loss of initiative in Group G and what now seems certain to be a tense fight with Montenegro, who host England in Podgorica on October 7.

Switzerland profited from a pair of inexplicable errors from the normally solid Joe Hart to establish a two-goal cushion. Although England rallied through a Frank Lampard penalty and a superb second-half effort from Ashley Young, who had replaced the Chelsea man at half-time, the hosts could not force home a third.

Darren Bent blew their best chance when he blasted over with the goal at his mercy and Stewart Downing also wasted a glorious opportunity right at the death. But a year after their World Cup misery, England extended a winless streak on home soil to four matches for the first time in 30 years, Admir Mehmedi coming far too close for comfort to snatching all three points for the visitors in stoppage time.

With far too many fans still outside when the game started, England began with a wobble. Switzerland had already served notice that the injection of youth by coach Ottmar Hitzfeld made them a far more potent outfit than they have been for some years. Even whilst they were beating eventual winners Spain in their opening World Cup match last summer, their strategy was largely a defensive one.

By the time they were blitzed by England in Basle last September, they had reached the end of their shelf life. It appeared England had not been monitoring their opponents because after a bright start, they were pulled apart far too easily. Hart denied Gokhan Inler, Eren Derdiyok fired over, then Xherdan Shaqiri sent a curling effort towards the far corner which England’s hitherto confident and undisputed number one goalkeeper kept out with a smart save.

It took an excellent Ashley Cole tackle to block Valon Behrami’s route to goal, and England could easily have been behind before the twin aberration that left them in huge trouble. There appeared no obvious danger when Barnetta floated his first free-kick to the far post. As Rio Ferdinand went for it, Hart remained rooted to the spot. By the time Ferdinand had failed to make contact, his movement was too late and the ball crept in at the far post.

When asked about the potential for making mistakes earlier this week, Hart said he accepted it as part of the job. He might not be so reflective about such matters now, given he was also culpable for Switzerland’s second. Hart could justifiably argue that England would not have conceded had Theo Walcott and James Milner done their jobs and remained static and together in a two-man wall.

Once they split, Barnetta had a huge hole to drive his shot through. Hart paid the ultimate price for not stationing anyone on the near post, only able to stick out a foot to help the ball over the line in his desperation to reach it.

England instantly halved the deficit thanks to Johan Djourou’s ill-advised lunge on Arsenal team-mate Jack Wilshere. There was more conviction about the penalty award than Lampard’s spot-kick. It still found its way in though, under the body of Diego Benaglio. Hart delivered a few angry comments towards a cameraman who got rather too close after the half-time whistle had gone.

When England returned, they did so without Lampard. The introduction of Young did not require the validation of his equaliser. However, that Lampard was the man to make way represented a bold move on Fabio Capello’s behalf, and one that could be a pointer to the Chelsea man’s 86-cap England career given Steven Gerrard will eventually return from injury.

Young’s impact was quick and brilliant. Profiting from assistance by Milner and Leighton Baines, who had replaced an injured Cole, the winger many expect to join Manchester United this summer found the bottom corner with a precise shot. It mirrored the goal scoring order from that awful night against Croatia that spawned all those “Wally with the Brolly” gags.

England lost on that occasion. This time they fancied their chances of ending up on the winning side. After Wilshere had been booked for a lunge on Barnetta, Young forced a save out of Benaglio with a powerful shot. The rebound rolled invitingly to Bent. But with only the goalkeeper to beat, he blasted over.
Young then clipped a first-time effort over after Milner had outsmarted Djourou by the touchline.

England could get no closer. A year on from South Africa, Capello’s anniversary was no cause for celebration.

Watch highlights and post-match interviews on the link below.

Source: Euro 2012 qualifier: England v Switzerland, Saturday 4 June on ITV1 and ITV.com - Football - ITV Sport

UEFA EURO 2012 Qualif: ENGLAND v SWITZERLAND at Wembley

2011-06-04T09:41:00.000-07:00

Switzerland will have to upset England's impressive home record if they want to come away from Wembley with three points on Saturday, as stat experts Opta attest.

LONDON. Despite a disappointing 1-1 draw against Ghana in England’s last home international, Wembley has been a real fortress for the Three Lions in recent years. Since Fabio Capello took over after the dismal Euro 2008 qualifying campaign, England have won six and drawn one of their seven competitive home games.

Going back further, England have lost just one of their last 25 competitive home internationals; the crucial 3-2 defeat against Croatia that cost Steve McClaren, brolly and all, his side’s place in the 2008 European Championships in Austria and Switzerland.

Until the recent 0-0 draw against Montenegro, England had not just been winning games at home, but doing so comfortably. Capello’s side have scored 36 goals in their last 11 competitive home internationals, netting at least two goals in 10 of them (with the exception being the Montenegro stalemate).

Switzerland manager Ottmar Hitzfeld may be worried about England’s dominant home form, but the German will be even more concerned by his side’s head-to-head record against the Three Lions. The Swiss have only won one of their last 18 games against England, a 2-1 home win in May 1981, and have never beaten England on their own patch.

Wembley win a must

Hitzfeld’s side have made a far from inspired start to their Euro 2012 qualifying campaign. Heavily tipped to finish second behind England in Group G, the Swiss have taken just four points from their first four games and lie six points behind England and surprise package Montenegro. If they are to make a dramatic return to contention for Euro 2012, and maintain their record of qualifying for every major international tournament since the 2002 World Cup, a victory at Wembley is surely required.

But despite the formbook heavily favouring England, Saturday’s clash is no dead cert. England have failed to win their last three home games in all competitions (they haven’t gone four at home without a win since August 2007), and will be without the suspended Wayne Rooney, who enjoyed a decent personal performance at Wembley last week against Barcelona.

Swiss goalkeeper Diego Benaglio will be especially glad that the Manchester United striker is unavailable at the weekend as Rooney has netted three goals in his previous two competitive games against the Swiss, including a brace in a 3-0 victory in Euro 2004, the tournament that brought the young forward to the world’s attention.

With Rooney suspended and Jermain Defoe injured, the attacking onus will likely fall on Aston Villa’s Darren Bent, who has netted two goals from just two shots in Euro 2012 qualifying so far. The striker netted 17 league goals in 2010/11, four more than Bobby Zamora, Peter Crouch and Defoe managed in total this term and, given that Switzerland’s last two matches have both ended 0-0, the former Sunderland man’s predatory instincts could prove useful if England are to break through a tough rearguard and re-establish the outstanding home form that they have enjoyed in recent seasons.

Watch England v Switzerland live on ITV1 and ITV.com from 4.15pm on Saturday

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61st FIFA Congress: FIFA 'family' resists words-archers, takes offence, closes ranks, hides head in the sand and re-elects Blatter

2011-06-01T13:07:00.000-07:00

COMMENT: The Fifa 'family' has sticked together one more amist critics and ill-opinions even from their own country and the all world following a frantic assault by the world media denouncing poor management and bribe scandals, ignored request by FAs to post-pone elections and renewed mandate to its beliguered President.

by Lucio Menin

Zurich, Switzerland. FIFA President Joseph S. Blatter was re-elected for a fourth term of office until 2015 by the 61st FIFA Congress, held today in Zurich. A clear majority of 186 member associations voted in favour of the incumbent president, who will remain at the head of world football’s governing body for the next four years. In total, 203 ballots were cast in an election conducted by secret ballot.

Defiant Blatter thanks faithfuls delegates

President Blatter thanked the delegates for placing their trust in him. “I am honoured to accept the 61st FIFA Congress’s mandate to serve as president during the 2011-2015 period. Together we can tackle the problems that football faces today and show that our game remains very solid and strong,” he said.

The FIFA President spoke about the need for transparency and “zero tolerance” in the fight against the dangers that threaten football. The member associations approved his proposal that the Congress will have the final vote to decide on the host of the FIFA World Cup™ and will have the power to elect the members of the FIFA Ethics Committee.

The Congress also approved another proposal made by President Blatter: the creation of a corporate governance and compliance committee composed of respected personalities from the football family, and possibly from other areas outside football, which will have the duty to investigate and suggest solutions to the problems they identify. The FIFA President concluded that, if required, an extraordinary congress would be convened in order to review the findings of this committee and restore FIFA’s credibility.

''I am honoured to accept the 61st FIFA Congress’s mandate'' said FIFA President Joseph S. Blatter

The 208 member associations of FIFA were all in attendance at the start of the Congress, which approved the decision taken two days before by the FIFA Executive Committee to lift the suspensions on the football associations of Bosnia-Herzegovina and Brunei Darussalam. The associations of Brunei Darussalam and São Tomé e Príncipe were not entitled to vote as they had not met the statutory requirements regarding minimum participation in FIFA competitions. Consequently, 206 associations had the right to vote.

Financial Report Key to re-election

At the start of proceedings, the FIFA Congress approved the agenda for the 2011 Congress, the minutes of the 2010 Congress in Johannesburg, the 2010 FIFA Activity Report, FIFA’s financial statements for 2010 and the 2007-2010 period, and the detailed budget for 2012. The details of these financial statements are contained in the FIFA Financial Report, which can be read on FIFA.com.

The Congress ratified a number of amendments to the FIFA Statutes. Articles 73 and 78 to 80 were amended to have clearer provisions regarding the authorisation of international matches in order to protect the integrity of the game. An amendment to article 5 was also approved in order to give a statutory basis to the “first-registered players” project proposed by FIFA in close cooperation with UEFA, which has the objective of protecting training clubs and young players, as well as the pool of players available for the representative teams, and encouraging the competitiveness and unpredictability of competitions.

In addition, article 14 was modified so as to allow for a member association that commits one single but very severe infringement of its obligations as a member to be suspended. Finally, articles 34 and 36 were amended to modify the name of the Internal Audit Committee to Audit Committee, in order to better reflect the role of this committee as a body that reports to the Congress.

Finally, outgoing FIFA Vice-President Dr Chung Mong-Joon was made Honorary Vice-President of FIFA by the Congress, and outgoing Executive Committee members Junji Ogura, Franz Beckenbauer and Geoff Thompson were presented with a distinction. Meanwhile, HRH Prince Ali Bin Al Hussein, David Chung and Jim Boyce were welcomed as new FIFA Vice-Presidents, and Manilal Fernando, Mohamed Raouraoua and Theo Zwanziger as new members of the FIFA Executive Committee, as elected this year by their respective confederations.

Next year’s FIFA Congress will take place in Budapest, Hungary, on 24 and 25 May 2012.

(Source: Fifa.com)

World Football Report - From the Publishers of 1st Interactive Journal. Established 1992. Copyright 2008 -2010 C.S.E. Limited. All rights reserved. Unauthorized reproductions of any part forbidden.

Twenty Azzurrini to the Toulon Tournament: Caroppo and Fausto Rossi in the squad

2011-05-24T18:48:00.001-07:00

LONDON. Five times European Champions Italy U21 squad (Pictured right at the Sweden Euro/ Picture Cse Ltd) will take part this year to the U19 Toulon International Tournament which is a worldwide renowned show-piece to scout successful players and coaches. So far the new 'Azzurrini' coach, former Italy '90 international, Juve Champions League and Napoli Uefa Cup winner, Ciro Ferrara.

Ciro has done very well so far collecting an uninterrupted stream of victories since he came in replacing the loved but unfortunate former Juve colleague Pierluigi Casiraghi. Gigi however missed out at the play-off stage the qualification for next month Denmark U21 European Championship and perhaps most importantly the next year's London Olympics Tournament.

Ferrara called up a twenty 'Azzurrini' squad today for the Toulon International Tournament, scheduled from 1st to June 10th. Italy, like other countries, participate this year with the Under-21 team and is part of group A with Cote d'Ivoire, Colombia and Portugal.

Two are the team-news of for the group of players called in the squad, goalkeeper Andrea Caroppo (Verona) and Vicenza midfielder Fausto Rossi, both in 'Azzurro' for their first time. Coming back after nine months' absence is instead Genoa striker Mattia Destro.

The 'Azzurrini' will meet on Thursday, 26 by 19.30 pm at the Sports Center 'The Borghesiana' of Rome, On Monday, 30 team will leave for France.

Italy will debut on Wednesday June 1st against the Ivory Coast, then Portugal will be faced on the 3rd June Friday (19.30) and Sunday 5th will be the turn of Colombia.

Semi-finals and final are scheduled for Wednesday 8 and Friday 10 June.

List of players summoned by coach Ferrara

Goalkeepers : Caroppo (Verona), Silvestri (Chievo), Viotti (Triestina);

Defenders : Caldirola (Vitesse), Campbell (Delfino Pescara), Crescenzi (Crotone), Donati (Lecce), Mori (Empoli), Santon (Cesena);

Midfielders : D'Alessandro (Livorno), Fabbrini (Empoli), Marrone (Siena), Misuraca (Vicenza), Fausto Rossi (Vicenza), Saponara (Empoli), Soriano (Empoli);

Forwards : Borini (Swansea), Destro (Genoa), Gabbiadini (Citadel), Paloschi

Agenda of training sessions and meetings with the press

Thursday, May 26, 2011 h. 19:30 Gathering at the Park Hotel "La Borghesiana - Rome

Friday, May 27, 2011 h. 09:30 Test at the athletic facility, "September 8" in Frascati

h. 17.00 Training at the Park Hotel "La Borghesiana"

Saturday, May 28, 2011 h. 10.30 Training at the Park Hotel "La Borghesiana" (behind closed doors for the press) h. 12:45 Press conference (players)

h. 17.00 Training at the Park Hotel "La Borghesiana"

Sunday, May 29, 2011 h. 10.30 Training at the Park Hotel "La Borghesiana" (behind closed doors for the press) h. 20:00 Transfer to the 'Airport Hilton Hotel Airport in Fiumicino

Monday, May 30, 2011 h. 09:05 Flight Rome FCO / Nice and transfer to the "Grand Prix Hotel" - The Castellet (France) h.18:30 Training at the Stade de Bon Rencontre - Toulon

Tuesday, May 31, 2011 h. 10.30 Training at the Stade de Bon Rencontre - Toulotade Paul Saulnier "- S. Cyr sur Mer (open to the press for the first 15 minutes)

Wednesday, 1 June 2011 h.18:30 Match IVORY COAST - ITALY U-21 - "Stade Mayol - Toulon, followed by meeting with the press

Thursday, June 2, 2011 h. 10.30 Training at the Stade de Bon Rencontre - Toulon (open to the press for the first 15 minute) h. 13:30 Meeting with the press (coaches and players)

Friday, June 3, 2011 h. 19:30 Match ITALY - Portugal Under-21 - Stade de "L'Esterel - Saint Raphael, followed by meeting with the press

Saturday, June 4, 2011 h. 14:00 Meeting with the press (coaches and players)

h. 18:30 Training at the Stade Paul Saulnier "- S. Cyr sur Mer (open to the press for the first 15 minutes)

Sunday, June 5, 2011 h. 18:30 Match COLOMBIA - ITALY U-21 - "Le Grand Stade" (Le Lavandou), followed by meeting with the press

In case of knock out from the next stage, departure of the team is scheduled for Monday, June 6 with flight Nice-Rome FCO h. 11:10 hours and subsequent continuations to the respective locations.

In case of qualification for the semifinals:

Monday, June 6, 2011 h. 11:00 Training at the Stade de Bon Rencontre - Toulon 13:00 Press conference (players)

Tuesday 7 June, 2011 h. 10.30 Training at the Stade de Bon Rencontre - Toulon (closed doors to the press)n h. 14:00 Meeting with the press (the head coach)

h. 18:30 Training at the S 14:00 Meeting with the press (coaches and players)

h. 17.30 Training at the Stade Paul Saulnier "- S. Cyr sur Mer (open to the press for the first 15 minutes)

Wednesday, June 8, 2011 h. 17.30 Semifinals - Stade "Mayol - Toulon

h. 20.00 Semifinals - Stade "Mayol - Toulon

Thursday, June 9, 2011 h. 14:00 Meeting with the press (coaches and players)

h. 17.30 Training at the Stade Paul Saulnier "- S. Cyr sur Mer (open to the press for the first 15 minutes)

Friday, June 10, 2011

h. 17.30 Finale 3°/4° posto - Stade “Mayol” - Toulon

h. 20.00 Finale 1°/2° posto - Stade “Mayol”- Toulon

Saturday, June 11, 2011 h. 11:10 Flight Nice-Rome FCO and continuation to the respective locations.

SERIE A: Inter Milan coach Leonardo sensational slur on Italy - Video

2011-05-08T09:48:00.000-07:00

LONDON. Perhaps feeling his time is up after AC Milan relieved yesterday Inter Milan of their possible sixth 'Scudetto' in a row, the Brazilian coach went on a sensational and unbelieving slur on Italy during a press conference in Milan (Video-Gazzetta.it)

The former 1994 world champion has been strongly criticized for his lack of defensive tactics after the European Cup holders were knocked out the Champions League by Germans minnows Shalke 04 with an shocking 5-2 defeat at the San Siro last month.

Leonardo questioned by journalist firstly reiterated his will to remain at Inter Milan helm even after being knocked out of all major competitions this season. He then went on a sensational rant asking that 'Italians should rather ask themselves why any coach approached doesn't want to come here?'.

Inter Milan season is not over however having a 'Coppa Italia' decider tie with Leonardo former club and town arch-rival AC Milan. Recently however the 'rossoneri' inflicted another blow to Leonardo's credibility by winning comfortably the 'derby'.

Leonardo's words, although harsh, are not new having Jose' Mourinho went down the same lines a few years ago before ending his Italian period restoring Inter Milan's past glory by winning the Champions League after 45 years.

FIFA 61th Congress: Sepp Blatter gets important backing from UEFA for upcoming presidential elections

2011-05-06T13:52:00.000-07:00

Blatter has promised to stand down in 2015

European football body Uefa's executive committee has given its "unanimous support" to Sepp Blatter in the upcoming FIFA presidential elections although England's governing body is still to decide who to vote for.

LONDON. The UEFA committee, which includes former Football Association chairman Geoff Thompson, has urged its 53 member associations to back Blatter. Seeking a fourth term as president, the 75-year-old is standing against Asian football president Mohamed Bin Hammam.

The Fifa election is being held on 1 June in Zurich, Switzerland.

Michel Platini, who served as one of Blatter's key aides before becoming Uefa president in 2007, was expected to support the Swiss who has pledged that, if re-elected, he would step down in 2015. . "The Uefa executive committee has decided to give its unanimous support to Mr Joseph S Blatter in the upcoming FIFA presidential elections and strongly recommends all Uefa member associations to do likewise," the organisation said in a statement.

President of Fifa since 1998

Blatter has pledged wide-ranging reforms if he re-elected, including changes to how future World Cup hosts are chosen. He has also proposed setting up a watchdog committee to supervise how the world governing body works, adding he already knew who he wanted to head the body, though he has not named him. In terms of deciding where future World Cup finals will be staged, Blatter is considering allowing FIFA's 208 member associations to vote on host countries, a solution similar to the way the International Olympic Committee chooses Olympic venues.

UEFA weight

UEFA is an influential body within FIFA's structure, holding 53 of the 208 votes which will decide the next president. FIFA was criticised for the voting process that led its 24-man executive committee - reduced to 22 after two members were suspended for corruption - to give Russia the 2018 World Cup and choose Qatar as host of the 2022 tournament. Many figures at the FA are still furious at the world governing body's rejection of the England bid, which gained just two votes, but FIFA vice-president Thompson's signature appears on a statement issued by the UEFA Executive Committee. Thompson joined by a single FIFA executive member in voting for England in December.

The Football Association still hurt

Blatter met FA chairman David Bernstein at Wembley last month as part of his re-election campaign, though England's governing body is still to decide who to vote for. Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland are all expected to support Blatter, along with Russia. "We appreciate everything Blatter has done for world and Russian football," said Russian Football Union president Vitaly Mutko. FIFA had set a deadline of 1 April for all candidate nominations and the winner will require a two-thirds majority of the votes cast in the first ballot, or a majority in the second.

CONCACAF's crucial votes

With 208 votes in total, Blatter needs 138 to get through in the first round and with guarantees of support from South America (10 votes) , Oceania (11), and the expectation he will receive a majority of CONCACAF's 35 votes, as well as UEFA's backing, the Swiss is the odds-on favourite. The 61-year-old Bin Hammam is Blatter's first challenger since African confederation president Issa Hayatou took him on - and lost by 139 votes to 56 - in 2002.

(Source: BBC Sport / Sepp Blatter)

World Football Report - From the Publishers of 1st Interactive Journal. Established 1992. Copyright 2008 -2010 C.S.E. Limited. All rights reserved. Unauthorized reproductions of any part forbidden.

61th FIFA Annual Congress: New relaxed players naturalisation rules are on the agenda

2011-05-05T07:50:00.000-07:00

FIFA will consider a proposal to relax the rules on the naturalisation of players at its annual Congress and give its executive committee greater powers to suspend member federations.

LONDON. (Reuters) The Congress, where the main item is the presidential election between incumbent Sepp Blatter and challenger Mohamed Bin Hammam on June 1, will also be asked to rubber-stamp moves to tighten up on friendly internationals. Soccer's governing body will consider a suggestion that a player over the age of 18 need only to live in a new country for three rather than the current five years before he can play for its new national team.

Proposed by UAE

FIFA said the proposal, included in the Congress agenda, had been made by the United Arab Emirates football association. Many feel the regulations are already too relaxed and allow players to switch nationalities too easily. Portugal and Mexico have fielded foreign-born players with no parental connections to the country, as have a number of African countries. Blatter once said that he feared a World Cup being played with teams full of Brazilian players who had changed nationalities.

Federations suspension for violation

Until 2004, a player only needed the passport of the country he wanted to represent, which many nations were happy to fast-track. But after Qatar tried to sign up Brazilian forward Ailton, FIFA ruled that players must have lived in their country for at least two years before they could play for it. That was later increased to five. The Congress will also be asked to allow the executive committee to suspend a member federation for a single violation of FIFA statutes. At the moment, it can only do this for repeated serious violations.

Congress to approve new Ex-Co powers

FIFA's executive committee announced in March it would take greater control over international friendlies. This came after a fake Togo team played in one game in September and seven penalties were awarded in two matches in Turkey in February. Congress has been asked to approve the new rules which include allowing FIFA to change the referee if it thinks he is not qualified for the game. The Congress agenda said: "FIFA would like to highlight the fact that it is of vital importance to have clear provisions regarding the authorisation of international matches in order to protect the integrity of football."

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE: Mourinho's 'Amor por Barcelona'. The then not yet 'Special One' caught in a 'Watch my lips' moment...

2011-04-28T22:23:00.000-07:00

LONDON. Real Madrid coach Jose' Mourinho caught in 1997 video declaring 'eternal love' after Barcelona win in the Spanish Cup.

FIFA - IFAB Annual Meeting: More Tests for Goal Technology and Extra Refs. Snoods banned

2011-03-06T19:13:00.000-08:00

The decisions concerning the Laws of the Game taken Saturday by the International Football Association Board will come into effect on 1 July 2011.

LONDON. The International Football Association Board (IFAB) under the chairmanship of Football Association of Wales President Phil Pritchard, convened for its Annual General Meeting (AGM) Saturday, 5 March 2011, at the Celtic Manor Resort in Newport, Wales.

Missed criterias

The IFAB received a presentation on the Goal Line Technology tests conducted by EMPA between 7-13 February at the Home of FIFA in Zurich, Switzerland. The IFAB heard that none of the ten companies were successful in meeting the criteria set out by the IFAB Annual Business Meeting on 20 October 2010, and therefore agreed to a further one year testing period.

AAR’s during the EURO 2012

A presentation was also made to the IFAB on the continued Additional Assistant Referees experiment and the IFAB approved that the implementation of the AAR’s during the EURO 2012 competition in Poland and Ukraine, should be part of the experiment phase.

'Snoods' banned. Tights same colors of shorts

The IFAB agreed that in relation to Law 4 – Players’ Equipment, the wearing of the snoods(Scarf-Hoods)garment should not be permitted. The Football Association of Wales’ proposal regarding Law 4 - Players’ Equipment was also approved. The IFAB agreed that the colour of undershorts or tights if worn, must be the same colour as the shorts.

Law-5 Power and Duties of Referees clarified

FIFA’s proposal to add a new text to Law 5 - The Referee was also approved. The new text clarifies the Power and Duties of referees, in the event of an extra ball, object or animal entering the field of play during the match.

LAW-2 The Ball New text approved

FIFA’s proposal related to Law 2 - The Ball was also approved, bringing a new text into the Laws of the Game should a ball burst or become defective during a penalty kick. The IFAB also approved new texts in relation to Law 1 - The Field of Play, concerning Field Markings and Goals. However, the proposal to re-define the location of commercial advertising, particularly behind the goal line, was deferred for further review at the 2012 IFAB AGM.

Law 12 – Fouls and Misconduct : 'DOGSO's ‘Triple punishment’ rule postponed

In other business, the usage of radio communication, and the discussion relating to Law 12 – Fouls and Misconduct, the so-called ‘triple punishment’ were both referred to the FIFA Task Force Football 2014.

Vanishing Spray trial approved

CONMEBOL were granted approval to trial the use of Vanishing Spray.

The decisions concerning the Laws of the Game taken today by the International Football Association Board will come into effect on 1 July 2011. The 126th Annual General Meeting will take place in London, England between 2 and 4 March 2012.
A Special Meeting of the IFAB will take place to further discuss the Additional Assistant Referee and Goal Line Technology experiments, following the conclusion of the 2011/2012 European football season.

Read and download the full Meeting Agenda clicking the link below>>
FIFA.com - IFAB agrees to one-year extension of Goal Line Technology tests

World Football Report - From the Publishers of 1st Interactive Journal. Established 1992. Copyright 2008 -2010 C.S.E. Limited. All rights reserved. Unauthorized reproductions of any part forbidden.

Gazza: Wonder player who can match up with Ronaldo's qualities. Who said England can't produce world class players?

2011-02-24T18:31:00.000-08:00

BRAZIL: Ronaldo as modern days Wilhelm Tell - True or False?

2011-01-22T19:30:00.000-08:00

James Lawton: A desert storm of the disingenuous cannot hide Platini's howling error.

2011-01-13T17:55:00.000-08:00

Qatar has neither a football tradition nor until now, a burning aspiration to have one

LONDON. You had to be in the new-build, mini-city of Doha, and then fly out over the desert and encounter the first notable break in the sand, a huge gas storage installation, to properly grasp the scale of the outrage.

Now when the cracks in Qatar's hosting of the 2022 World Cup are becoming so visible and Fifa president Sepp Blatter and his acolyte, the Uefa chief Michel Platini, respectively speak of wrecking the schedules of European football by moving it to January – against the wishes of Mohammed Bin Hammam, the power behind Qatar's successful bid – and then spreading the tournament across the Gulf, the disgust and disbelief can only bite the harder.

Platini is nobody's fool. His pressure for economic reform in European football has to be welcomed by anyone who understands that almost anything would be better, and less stomach-turning, than the game's own rapacious and madcap version of laissez-faire.

So of course he knows that more than a few wisps of sand blow beneath his feet when he tries to rationalise the most grotesque piece of maladministration in the history of the world's most popular game.

Indeed, the result is a desert storm of the disingenuous, especially when he cites a spurious precedent for his plan to spread the World Cup to such other hotbeds of football culture as Dubai and Abu Dhabi and Bahrain.

Here is Platini on why no one will care in 11 years' time if there are radical changes to the bid that was voted home in Zurich last month, "Who will remember the words? When I organised the World Cup in France [in 1998] we did things differently from what we proposed in the bid."

Sacré bleu, Michel, we are not talking about details, we are discussing the fundamentals of a World Cup and its basic need to be placed in an appropriate environment. I don't know how extensively the French blueprint was changed, only that the tournament was a joy to attend, at least when you could put a little distance between yourself and the ravening English morons who parked themselves in the old port of Marseilles and provoked the tear gas which filled my hotel room from time to time.

The French World Cup was brilliant for many reasons but mostly because it was set in an appreciative culture. Wherever you were, in a square in Montpellier watching Zinedine Zidane sent off on the big screen, or in the Stade de France or Lille or St Etienne, where Michael Owen scored that goal, and, most memorable of all, on the Champs-Elysées the night Les Bleus won the great prize and they ran out of certain drinks and hot dogs in Harry's Bar.

You could say something of the same of the tournaments in South Africa last summer and in Germany in 2006 and Japan and South Korea in 2002. We moved from new worlds of football to old, but the linkage was a vast enthusiasm. You cannot create such passion, vast or otherwise, in a desert enclave with neither a tradition, nor until now, a burning aspiration to have one.

In 1978, in Argentina the worry was that the home nation's success would rebound favourably on the government of the generals but Ian St John saw it entirely as a triumph for the enduring magic of football when he walked for hours through the streets of Buenos Aires after the defeat of a fine Netherlands team in the final. "I danced with an old lady in the street," reports St John.

It would be too hot in Qatar and he might just get arrested.

Original source>>

James Lawton: A desert storm of the disingenuous cannot hide Platini's howling error - News & Comment, Football - The Independent

World Cup 2022: Michel Platini proposes Gulf World Cup - Telegraph

2011-01-12T09:30:00.000-08:00

Share the wealth: Michel Platini wants Qatar to share 2022 World Cup hosting duties with its Gulf neighbours Photo: AFP

By Telegraph staff and agencies 4:21PM GMT 12 Jan 2011

His call is likely to fuel the controversy sparked by Fifa president Sepp Blatter saying he expected the tournament to be played in the winter - neither proposal was suggested during last year's World Cup bidding.

Platini has also labelled English football administration as "strange" but denied that resentment at Britain's special status within Fifa led to England's humiliating 2018 World Cup defeat.

He told reporters at Uefa's headquarters: "I hope it will be a World Cup of the Gulf. It could be the World Cup of Qatar but played in the Gulf.

"I think we need political people (for this to happen), but I think so."

Asked why such drastic changes could be considered when they were never mentioned during the bidding campaign, Platini added: "Who will remember the words in 12 years? In 12 years everybody will be happy to have a very well-organised World Cup and not remember what's happened before.

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"When I organised the World Cup in France we did (things) differently from what we proposed in the bid."

The Uefa president said England should work with Fifa instead of continuing to complain about their 2018 World Cup bid defeat. He also referred to the appointment of Football Association chairman-elect David Bernstein as being strange in that he was chosen by a small group rather than in an election.

Platini said: "In England you are different, in every way you are different. The way you elect a president (sic) of the FA is very strange.

"It's asking three people to recommend one, it's strange.

"It's your world and you decide what you want to do. For me I don't have to interfere but I can say it's strange.

"I think Fifa and Uefa needs big countries and England definitely is a big country.

"England needs to be with Uefa and Uefa needs England. We are in the same way for football. We have to be together.

"It is not because the Fifa members don't vote for (England) that they don't like (England)."

He also dismissed suggestions that England were unfairly dealt with in their 2018 bid.

"When the 2012 Olympics did not come to Paris, did everyone say that the IOC was corrupted?" he added.

"Blatter said that fair play was an English thing but you have not been so 'fair play'.

"It is not because people don't vote for England that it's the end of the world.

"The bid was very good, fantastic, but Fifa decided they had to go to the east instead of Spain or England. Belgium-Netherlands was a good bid too."

Platini said he would continue to defend the British Fifa vice-presidency and the four home nations being the only associations represented on the International FA Board, the game's law-making body, along with Fifa.

"I think it's tradition and it's good like that," he added.

Platini did not speak about playing the 2022 World Cup in January but raised the prospect of a major change to the football calendar.

He added: "When I came in 1998 as advisor to Sepp Blatter I worked on the international calendar and my proposal to Blatter was to play from February to December.

"Fifa was close to accepting that, then Italy and Spain said no because they wanted to play in winter. Finish.

"It is necessary to think what could be the future. I don't say to play in winter or not to play in winter but to think about what could be the calendar in the future."

World Cup 2022: Michel Platini proposes Gulf World Cup - Telegraph

LAWS & DISCIPLINE: Blatter's pledge for future 'Professional referees only' World Cups

2011-01-05T07:08:00.000-08:00

The welcomed changes means that from the next World Cup in Brazil there will be only Referees from major Football nations. It does not mean however that blunders like 'Goal that never was' will be eliminated until a properly fit goal-line technology system will hopefully be introduced by the next March IFAB meeting.

LONDON - The shameful scenes of South Korea vs Portugal, Italy and Spain in the 2002 World Cup (see VIDEO) officiated by now infamous referees including the Ecuadorean referee Moreno - recently arrested in the US for trying to smuggling prohibited substances - will not wishfully be any more part of world football.

FIFA President Sepp Blatter in fact asked by FIFA.com Magazine about the recent criticism surrounding the referees' performances said 'We have a very clear target in this respect, and that’s to have only professional referees officiating at the 2014 World Cup. That’s a target we have to reach. Coaches are professional now and so are players, and there’s no reason why referees shouldn’t be either. Some people say there’s not enough money to pay them, but there always seems to be plenty in the professional leagues.'' the Swiss concluded.

Full interview here below>>
FIFA.com - Blatter: Pro referees only at Brazil 2014

World Football Report - From the Publishers of 1st Interactive Journal. Established 1992. Copyright 2008 -2010 C.S.E. Limited. All rights reserved. Unauthorized reproductions of any part forbidden.

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Manchester United FC may have caught the eye, but it was an even better weekend for Manchester City FC as they and Bundesliga top dogs Borussia Dortmund built two-point leads.

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City and Dortmund edge ahead in title quests – UEFA.com

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Blatter comes under fire

When inviting the world, Fifa hitches along

LAWS & DISCIPLINE: Blatter's pledge for future 'Professional referees only' World Cups

Shield and Al Pacino
greets Beckham LA