I apologize for the length of this post but I wanted people to see what the USA could really have achieved had the coaching been even slightly better. All in all though, a good run for Team USA.
The first two games of the Round of 16 games had Uruguay and Ghana advancing. Uruguay took on South Korea in a match that was very well fought but saw Diego Forlan's squad advancing to the next round.
In the USA - Ghana game, it was a thriller. Donovan tied up the game in regulation from a Dempsey earned PK. The game would then go into extra time where Ghana's Gyan scored a fabulous goal 3 minutes into the first overtime period. It would also prove to the be the goal that would give Ghana their second straight win over the US in World Cup competition.
So, you may ask, why did the USA lose to Ghana again? Hopefully I can shed some light on this as an amateur Soccer player in the US with overseas experience as well. First off, I blame this result completely on the coaching staff. I haven't liked the job Bob Bradley has done and I really think the US soccer federation needs a strong European coach who has lots of knowledge in the game. Branching off this issue is where the other problems from the game arose. Why the hell was Clark starting????? Edu has been doing very well in previous game and he should have certainly started today. In a tournament like the World Cup, you don't start who you think did well in practice; you start who has been consistent in games, and that was Edu. Second, I have said this before and I will say it again - Edson Buddle IS a much better finisher/ striker than Findley. I don't know how many of you watch MLS soccer but I like to especially watch the strong teams like the Galaxy play. What I have been noticing in that team is that their really are three members of the team who are crucial to the club's success: Donovan, Beckham, and Buddle. Buddle can finish, he has the correct tendencies as a striker and I promise you had Bradley used Buddle more, we would be heading to the quarterfinals.
The third and final mistake Bradley made as a coach today was not starting Feilhaber. If your not going to play Buddle then at least start Feilhaber. The guy has had a fantastic tournament thus far and come-on he was BORN AND RAISED in Brazil. What more could you possibly ask for??? Brooks Peck seems to also feel Bradley needs to get the boot.
Jersey of the post: PUMA Ghana Away Jersey 2010
6/26/2010
6/24/2010
Holland, Japan, Paraguay, & Slovakia are the Latest Round of 16 Additions
Holland was more or less through prior to their game against Cameroon today, but they sealed the deal with a 2-1 win over Eto'o's crew. Japan also only needed a tie against Denmark but were able to get an incredible 3-1 win over the Danish thanks mainly to their free kicks. In group F, Paraguay got through with a 0-0 tie with New Zealand while Slovakia had one of the biggest upsets of the tournament by beating previously champs, Italy, 3-2. Check out the highlights here. And with that I go 5/6 with my predictions.
Be sure to catch the rest of the games tomorrow with the Portugal - Brazil game hopefully going to be a very entertaining game along with the battle for first in group H between Chile and Spain.
Portugal v Brazil - 10 AM ET
North Korea v Ivory Coast - 10 AM ET
Chile v Spain - 2:30 PM ET
Switzerland v Honduras - 2:30 PM ET
A great, classic commercial of Brazil and Portugal going at it.
Also, don't forget to become a fan of the new Soccer Update Facebook Fan group.
Jersey of the post: adidas Keisuke Honda Japan Home Jersey 10/12
Be sure to catch the rest of the games tomorrow with the Portugal - Brazil game hopefully going to be a very entertaining game along with the battle for first in group H between Chile and Spain.
Portugal v Brazil - 10 AM ET
North Korea v Ivory Coast - 10 AM ET
Chile v Spain - 2:30 PM ET
Switzerland v Honduras - 2:30 PM ET
A great, classic commercial of Brazil and Portugal going at it.
Also, don't forget to become a fan of the new Soccer Update Facebook Fan group.
Jersey of the post: adidas Keisuke Honda Japan Home Jersey 10/12
6/23/2010
Huge Win For The USA!
There is no other way to say it: had Donovan not scored in the 90th+ minute, USA and Algeria were headed home. Fortunately Donovan capitalized on Dempsey's (who had a goal taken away earlier in the match for supposedly being offsides - good job stupid ref) rebound which led to some huge celebrations for Bob Bradley's side. In addition, England also got their first group match over Slovenia and because of the USA win, Slovenia will NOT be advancing. Obviously, another weak showing of officiating in the Algeria - USA game. Check out the video below: you got to love the commentary!
However, what will it take for USA to do well in the next round against what, right now, looks to be either Ghana or Germany? Personally, I have been saying this for a while; Edson Buddle should have gotten in to the starting rotation last week because he is a very good player who Bradley has severely overlooked. Get him in with Altidore and I can almost guarantee you the USA will get to the Quarterfinals. Bradley, if you don't start him, I have no reserve in saying you will NOT advance.
What to expect in groups E-H?
1. Group E: Netherlands face last place group members, Cameroon; Holland will win. Japan faces Denmark; I'm thinking Japan's current form might change for the better and they get a win.
2. Group F: Same situation as the USA - England group. To win you have to advance (Paraguay, Italy, New Zealand, Slovakia)
3. Group G: Brazil is in, North Korea is out. Portugal plays Brazil, Ivory coast plays North Korea. Portugal needs at least a tie.
4. Group H: Spain better beat Chile and the Swiss will hope to beat Honduras...if they do, Spain may not be advancing.
Jersey of the post: Nike Donovan Away Jersey 10/11
However, what will it take for USA to do well in the next round against what, right now, looks to be either Ghana or Germany? Personally, I have been saying this for a while; Edson Buddle should have gotten in to the starting rotation last week because he is a very good player who Bradley has severely overlooked. Get him in with Altidore and I can almost guarantee you the USA will get to the Quarterfinals. Bradley, if you don't start him, I have no reserve in saying you will NOT advance.
What to expect in groups E-H?
1. Group E: Netherlands face last place group members, Cameroon; Holland will win. Japan faces Denmark; I'm thinking Japan's current form might change for the better and they get a win.
2. Group F: Same situation as the USA - England group. To win you have to advance (Paraguay, Italy, New Zealand, Slovakia)
3. Group G: Brazil is in, North Korea is out. Portugal plays Brazil, Ivory coast plays North Korea. Portugal needs at least a tie.
4. Group H: Spain better beat Chile and the Swiss will hope to beat Honduras...if they do, Spain may not be advancing.
Jersey of the post: Nike Donovan Away Jersey 10/11
6/21/2010
Final Round Robin Games Approach
Earlier today, we officially ended the second games for all teams in group play. Brazil is officially headed to the next round and North Korea is officially done. Fortunately, we have seen a lot of the necessary results needed for the stronger and better teams including the huge 7-0 win for Portugal over North Korea and Spain's fantastic win over Honduras with the two goals in the game coming from none other than David Villa.
What to expect tomorrow and Thursday in Groups A-D?
1. Group A: France will play South Africa in a game that is essentially pointless (it will be the first time the host nation has not made it to the second round).
2. Group B: Each game is important but the game with more importance is the Korea-Nigeria game (Korea needs to win to advance).
3. Group C: Slovenia plays England and USA plays Slovenia. Simple Scenario: to advance in this group you have to win.
4. Group D: Very similar situation to Group C. Current top finishers Ghana and Germany face-off and Serbia and Australia will take each other on in hope of Ghana/Germany losing to advance to the next round.
Check back in a few days for more updates and a preview of the final four groups.
Jersey of the post: Nike Tiago Portugal Home Jersey 10/11
What to expect tomorrow and Thursday in Groups A-D?
1. Group A: France will play South Africa in a game that is essentially pointless (it will be the first time the host nation has not made it to the second round).
2. Group B: Each game is important but the game with more importance is the Korea-Nigeria game (Korea needs to win to advance).
3. Group C: Slovenia plays England and USA plays Slovenia. Simple Scenario: to advance in this group you have to win.
4. Group D: Very similar situation to Group C. Current top finishers Ghana and Germany face-off and Serbia and Australia will take each other on in hope of Ghana/Germany losing to advance to the next round.
Check back in a few days for more updates and a preview of the final four groups.
Jersey of the post: Nike Tiago Portugal Home Jersey 10/11
6/19/2010
9 Days In
9 days into the World Cup and what a tournament it has been this year in South Africa!
I apologize for the long nature of this post, but I'm sure if you do read it there will certianly be something of interest and perhaps surprise. For a quick update in standings, click here.
In Group A, much of what has been expected has happened. Mexico and Uruguay are leading the group with 4 points apiece and they are still to play each other. So far, it looks like I'm 1/1 in my predictions.
In Group B, Argentina has obviously dominated the group with South Korea and Greece looking to battle for that final spot in their remaining games against Nigeria and Argentina. As of now, 2/2.
In Group C, we have seen the wildest of results. The US managed to pull off a huge tie against Soccer powerhouse England. They were also very fortunate to get the 2-2 tie against Slovenia (although, many will argue their 3rd goal was pulled back, which is true, however going down 2-0 in the first was typical). As you may see, I am very critical about the US soccer. I'm going to be brutally honest and say that the US defense is one of the worst in the tournament right now and we are very lucky to be in second with two points. In terms of England, they have been playing some of their worst soccer; ties against the US and Algeria with their final game against group leader, Slovenia. Look for Slovenia to be a huge underdog with great potential in the next round. 2/3.
In Group D, Ghana leads the way with 4 points and yet to play second place, Germany. Also tied for second with 3 points in hand is Serbia. Other than Australia, any 3 of these teams can advance. Wins are crucial for all, but only Ghana can survive with a tie. For now, 3/4.
In Group E, only the Netherlands and Japan have played two games and they lead the group with 6 and 3 points respectively. As I am writing this, Cameroon and Denmark are playing with Denmark leading 2-1. I predict a tie as the final result in this game and thus allowing my predictions to be true. This group hasn't really had any surprises in game results. 4/5.
In Group F, there has been no excitement whatsoever. Each team has only played one game and all were 1-1 ties. I'm looking forward to the Slovakia/ Paraguay game; it can be a huge group advancing decider. Look for Italy to NOT get the win against New Zealand. Perhaps and extreme statement for some, but don't be surprised. Given that the group is leveled, I am giving myself the benefit of the doubt: 5/6.
In Group G, aka "the group of death", all results thus far have been expected. Brazil opens with a win over North Korea and the Ivory Coast ties with Portugal. Next key game in group: Ivory Coast vs Brazil. Another advancing decider. Given that Brazil is first and Portugal is tied with the Ivory Coast for second, 6/7.
Lastly, in Group H, Spain has surprised all. With an awful opening loss to the Swiss, they are hanging out in last place. Tied with 0 points as well is Honduras while the Swiss and Chile are atop with 3 points apiece. If Spain gets anything less than a tie in their next game against Honduras, we may not see my predicted winner even advance out of the group stage. And I end with a 6/8 prediction score for now. Not too shabby.
Jersey of the post: PUMA Uruguay Home Jersey 10/12
I apologize for the long nature of this post, but I'm sure if you do read it there will certianly be something of interest and perhaps surprise. For a quick update in standings, click here.
In Group A, much of what has been expected has happened. Mexico and Uruguay are leading the group with 4 points apiece and they are still to play each other. So far, it looks like I'm 1/1 in my predictions.
In Group B, Argentina has obviously dominated the group with South Korea and Greece looking to battle for that final spot in their remaining games against Nigeria and Argentina. As of now, 2/2.
In Group C, we have seen the wildest of results. The US managed to pull off a huge tie against Soccer powerhouse England. They were also very fortunate to get the 2-2 tie against Slovenia (although, many will argue their 3rd goal was pulled back, which is true, however going down 2-0 in the first was typical). As you may see, I am very critical about the US soccer. I'm going to be brutally honest and say that the US defense is one of the worst in the tournament right now and we are very lucky to be in second with two points. In terms of England, they have been playing some of their worst soccer; ties against the US and Algeria with their final game against group leader, Slovenia. Look for Slovenia to be a huge underdog with great potential in the next round. 2/3.
In Group D, Ghana leads the way with 4 points and yet to play second place, Germany. Also tied for second with 3 points in hand is Serbia. Other than Australia, any 3 of these teams can advance. Wins are crucial for all, but only Ghana can survive with a tie. For now, 3/4.
In Group E, only the Netherlands and Japan have played two games and they lead the group with 6 and 3 points respectively. As I am writing this, Cameroon and Denmark are playing with Denmark leading 2-1. I predict a tie as the final result in this game and thus allowing my predictions to be true. This group hasn't really had any surprises in game results. 4/5.
In Group F, there has been no excitement whatsoever. Each team has only played one game and all were 1-1 ties. I'm looking forward to the Slovakia/ Paraguay game; it can be a huge group advancing decider. Look for Italy to NOT get the win against New Zealand. Perhaps and extreme statement for some, but don't be surprised. Given that the group is leveled, I am giving myself the benefit of the doubt: 5/6.
In Group G, aka "the group of death", all results thus far have been expected. Brazil opens with a win over North Korea and the Ivory Coast ties with Portugal. Next key game in group: Ivory Coast vs Brazil. Another advancing decider. Given that Brazil is first and Portugal is tied with the Ivory Coast for second, 6/7.
Lastly, in Group H, Spain has surprised all. With an awful opening loss to the Swiss, they are hanging out in last place. Tied with 0 points as well is Honduras while the Swiss and Chile are atop with 3 points apiece. If Spain gets anything less than a tie in their next game against Honduras, we may not see my predicted winner even advance out of the group stage. And I end with a 6/8 prediction score for now. Not too shabby.
Jersey of the post: PUMA Uruguay Home Jersey 10/12
6/08/2010
3 Days To Go!!!
With only 3 days to go, it seems like the World Cup is "cursed." It seems that there have been many key players injured over the past few months. Charlie Davies (I know that was some time ago, but still), Didier Drogba, Ballack, Michael Essien, Rio Ferdinand, Arjen Robben, Andrea Pirlo, Humberto Suazo,
John Obu Mikel, and Wilson Palacios. Oh wait, get this: even refs are getting injured!
So, now what is there to expect? I figured I would give you my predictions for the two teams to advance in each group:
Group A: Mexico, Uruguay
Group B: Argentina, South Korea
Group C: England, United States
Group D: Ghana, Germany
Group E: Netherlands, Japan
Group F: Italy, Slovakia
Group G: Portugal, Brazil
Group H: Spain, Honduras
Who's going to win it all? Right now, and no I am NOT a fair-weather fan, Spain is going to win it all. There is no other team that can compete with the skill and depth of Spain. (Note: the video below does have some corny music, but other than that it's definitely worth the view).
Jersey of the post: adidas Fernando Torres Spain Away Jersey 10/11
John Obu Mikel, and Wilson Palacios. Oh wait, get this: even refs are getting injured!
So, now what is there to expect? I figured I would give you my predictions for the two teams to advance in each group:
Group A: Mexico, Uruguay
Group B: Argentina, South Korea
Group C: England, United States
Group D: Ghana, Germany
Group E: Netherlands, Japan
Group F: Italy, Slovakia
Group G: Portugal, Brazil
Group H: Spain, Honduras
Who's going to win it all? Right now, and no I am NOT a fair-weather fan, Spain is going to win it all. There is no other team that can compete with the skill and depth of Spain. (Note: the video below does have some corny music, but other than that it's definitely worth the view).
Jersey of the post: adidas Fernando Torres Spain Away Jersey 10/11
6/01/2010
Mourinho Joins Real Madrid
Just yesterday, it became official that Inter manager, Jose Mourinho (also former Chelsea manager), will now be the new manager of La Liga side, Real Madrid. Clearly, he brings a lot of experience as well as expertise seeing that he has now led a few different teams to winning the UEFA Championship as well as winning the Barclay's title.
On another note, we are now officially just under 10 days away from the kickoff of the World Cup. Most if not all the teams are already in South Africa as they now are getting acquainted with their new surroundings. However, what has been gaining a lot of attention are the new balls for this year's World Cup. As always, adidas has been in charge of creating them. Unfortunately, this year there has been more than the usual amount of complaints on the new soccer balls; goalies and forwards alike are saying that the ball is moving through the air in ways they aren't intended for. There is no much that can be done right now so we are all going to have to wait for the tournament to begin before we can really get a clear view for ourselves as to what is happening. Below, I have also put up the youtube video to the well made NIKE ad for the World Cup - Enjoy!
Post your comments below and let me know who you think will win the 2010 FIFA World Cup!
Jersey of the post: adidas Cristiano Ronaldo Real Madrid Away Jersey 09/10
On another note, we are now officially just under 10 days away from the kickoff of the World Cup. Most if not all the teams are already in South Africa as they now are getting acquainted with their new surroundings. However, what has been gaining a lot of attention are the new balls for this year's World Cup. As always, adidas has been in charge of creating them. Unfortunately, this year there has been more than the usual amount of complaints on the new soccer balls; goalies and forwards alike are saying that the ball is moving through the air in ways they aren't intended for. There is no much that can be done right now so we are all going to have to wait for the tournament to begin before we can really get a clear view for ourselves as to what is happening. Below, I have also put up the youtube video to the well made NIKE ad for the World Cup - Enjoy!
Post your comments below and let me know who you think will win the 2010 FIFA World Cup!
Jersey of the post: adidas Cristiano Ronaldo Real Madrid Away Jersey 09/10
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