Blokhin: Football is in my blood
Both on the field and in the dugout, Oleg Blokhin has made a habit of setting new standards. In his playing pomp, he was one of the world’s finest strikers, his speed, power and skill earning him a record number of USSR caps (112) and goals (42).
This ability to break new ground continued into Blokhin’s coaching career, most notably when he led his native Ukraine to their first-ever FIFA World Cup™ in 2006, and onwards to the competition’s quarter-finals. Now, after a short sabbatical, and with Ukraine preparing to host UEFA EURO 2012 next summer, the 58-year-old is back in charge and, as he told FIFA.com, he's set himself the loftiest of targets: winning Europe’s top prize.
FIFA.com: Oleg, next year Ukraine will co-host EURO 2012. How excited are you to be national coach for this event?
Oleg Blokhin: In one respect, it's great to be given such a privileged post. On the other hand, I understand perfectly the huge responsibility that now rests on my shoulders. I also realise that I have a double responsibility because EURO 2012 will take place in Ukraine. The closer the tournament gets, the more pressure there will be. Of course, my previous experience with the national team when we qualified for the World Cup in 2006 should help me a lot, as I'm used to the pressure and way of working in the national team. But there is always something new: I never made it to the European Championship as a player, so it will be interesting for me to feel the atmosphere of EURO 2012 as coach.
How important is this tournament for the Ukraine, its people and football in the country?
I think we will find out just before the tournament. But it's obvious, even now, that the European Championship can provide an essential boost for the development of Ukrainian football and in the development of our country's infrastructure. At the same time, EURO 2012 is a massive challenge for our country because we are hosting such a big event for the first time, and it will be seen as a test for our readiness to stage similar events in the future. It wouldn't be an exaggeration to say that the Ukrainian people are waiting impatiently for the show to begin and are eager to demonstrate Ukraine's famous hospitality.
How will you prepare your team in the coming months?
We have two upcoming friendlies against Uzbekistan and France, although we won't be able to play those with our strongest squad due to four or five of our players competing in the UEFA U-21 European Championship. The interests of the main team are always paramount, of course, but after discussions with Pavlo Yakovenko [head coach of the U-21 team] I decided not to take players away from the U-21s. After all, the guys deserved to play in this tournament. So the next time you will see the full-strength Ukraine squad is for the friendly match on 10 August against Sweden. We will also have a very intensive programme in Autumn: we have already agreed away matches with Czech Republic and Bulgaria, and it's planned that we will play Germany on 11 November in the reconstructed Olympic stadium in Kyiv. Negotiations are also ongoing regarding a match with the world and European champions, Spain. So, even without the qualifying games, we will definitely have the opportunity to play against strong opponents.
What can your team achieve at EURO 2012? Who do you consider to be the favourites?
The main task before this team is to win EURO 2012. But our first target must be to qualify from the group. Of course, we will strive to achieve the maximum, but without completing the first task, the main one is impossible. So we will move step-by-step. I think there are seven or eight favourites because all best football teams are from Europe with the exception of Brazil, Argentina and Uruguay. France, England, Italy, Spain, Germany and the Netherlands are all traditionally contenders, and Portugal could also become involved in this fight.
What are the main strengths and weaknesses of your team?
I've not long returned to the national team, so it's difficult to say at this stage. It would be better to ask this question after the two games we have coming up. But from what I have seen, I can say that first of all we should work to improve the team's defence The midfield and attack worry me less because I see some promise there even now.
Is Andriy Shevchenko still your key player?
He is one of the veterans of the team, a player on whose experience we count, and it is obvious that he will play an important role in our gameplan. But this doesn't mean that Shevchenko is our key player. We have a year until the European Championship and of course I would like Andriy to be in good condition. But at the same time, there are talented young guys in Ukraine and everything depends on how they play in defining matches and in defining moments. Because you can be the leader by name and not to be the leader out on the pitch. The most important thing for all the players is to express leadership qualities - the more leaders on the pitch, the stronger this team will be.
I never made it to the European Championship as a player, so it will be interesting for me to feel the atmosphere of EURO 2012 as coach.
Oleg Blokhin, Ukraine coach
Have you allowed yourself to think beyond EURO 2012 in terms of staying on to compete for a place at Brazil 2014?
Let’s wait and see. For the moment, I have a one-year contract and after that we will see what will happen. With the management of the Football Federation of Ukraine, we have decided that if everything is successful, we will find a way to continue our cooperation.
You played and coached at various different clubs. Where do you enjoy most?
In my career as a player, it is of course FC Dynamo [Kyiv], where I spent basically all my life. Although I went on to play for Vorwarts Steyr in Austria and in Cyprus with Aris Limassol, that was at the end of my career and I didn't spend much time there. As a coach, the most memorable time for me was with Olympiacos from Piraeus.
You stayed in Greece for a long time and coached several clubs. Why was that? Did you feel particularly at home in that country?
I thought I would come to Greece for a few years but as it happened I ended up staying for 12 years! It is a really good country and big on its football. Don't believe those people who say that Greece is “not a football country”. Those people are mistaken. I have the fondest memories of my time in Greece.
Before your recent return, you had been out of coaching since 2008. What have you been up to?
I spent a lot of time with my family, but at the same time I haven’t stepped aside from football: I watched games, analysed, and paid particular attention to the performance of the national team. Football is in my blood, that's why I could just put it aside. I just had enough time to spend together with my wife and children, which is time you always lack when you're coaching. But now I have one more big child – the national team of Ukraine! And I intend to care for it in a proper way. As for my own children, they are getting older and understand that their father is going to work again.
What was your most spectacular goal and game as a coach and player?
The most memorable for me are the three goals that I scored against Bayern Munich in two matches for the 1975 UEFA Super Cup. The most spectacular of the three was the goal scored in the away match when I dribbled past four defenders - people said it was fantastic at the time. And the most beautiful win in my coaching career would be with the national team in Turkey, when we won 3-0. It was a very hard game in Istanbul, but we managed to get a spectacular victory and gain a very important result. The same thing could be said about our [1-0] away win in Greece – a very difficult game and an essential win. In general, the best achievement for me as a coach was in getting first place in our 2006 World Cup qualifying group.
Do you think the style of football has changed from the last century? If so, how? And what would you say has improved?
I'm a fan of dividing football [into eras]. Every time has its own style of the game and its own great football players. People still remember the mastership of outstanding players of the last century such as Puskas, Yashin, Cruyff, Pele, Maradona. Now we have football masters like Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. Every time period had good football. Of course, football changes, becoming more speedy, with more pressing, dynamic play and athleticism. One should also point out the game has become very compacted in midfield. This is the tendency of modern football.
And what remains unchanged?
The stars who create the show: Messi, Ronaldo, Iniesta, Xavi, Rooney. There still are many football fans who come to watch because those players are able to create something unforgettable.
Monday, May 30, 2011
Quartet stay perfect in Brazil
Quartet stay perfect in Brazil
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Vasco da Gama lie second in the Brazilian Campeonato following a 3-0 win over Atletico Mineiro on Sunday.
Bernado, with a penalty, Enrico and Elton Brandao scored the goals. America had Dudu sent off in the second half.
Corinthians are third following their 2-1 defeat of Coritiba, Paulinho and Danilo scoring for the winners. Leonardo got Coritiba's consolation.
Flamengo are fifth after being held to a 3-3 draw away to Bahia. Jobson (2) and Marcelo Lulina scored for Bahia who also had Santos Helder sent off. Ronaldinho, Dario Bottinelli and Junior Egidio scored for Flamengo.
Ramon Anselmo scored for Cruzeiro in the 1-1 draw with Palmeiras whose goal came from Michel Luan.
An own goal by Atletico Paranaense's Rafael Santos gave Gremio a 1-0 win.
Leandro Euzebio scored to earn Fluminense a 1-0 win away to Atletico Goianiense.
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Vasco da Gama lie second in the Brazilian Campeonato following a 3-0 win over Atletico Mineiro on Sunday.
Bernado, with a penalty, Enrico and Elton Brandao scored the goals. America had Dudu sent off in the second half.
Corinthians are third following their 2-1 defeat of Coritiba, Paulinho and Danilo scoring for the winners. Leonardo got Coritiba's consolation.
Flamengo are fifth after being held to a 3-3 draw away to Bahia. Jobson (2) and Marcelo Lulina scored for Bahia who also had Santos Helder sent off. Ronaldinho, Dario Bottinelli and Junior Egidio scored for Flamengo.
Ramon Anselmo scored for Cruzeiro in the 1-1 draw with Palmeiras whose goal came from Michel Luan.
An own goal by Atletico Paranaense's Rafael Santos gave Gremio a 1-0 win.
Leandro Euzebio scored to earn Fluminense a 1-0 win away to Atletico Goianiense.
Kuszczak lauds retiring Van der Sa
Kuszczak lauds retiring Van der Sar
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Tomasz Kuszczak has led the tributes to Edwin van der Sar after his fellow goalkeeper played the last game of his career in Manchester United's UEFA Champions League final defeat to Barcelona.
Kuszczak insisted no other player could have ousted Van der Sar from the United side in the last five years and admitted he would look to leave if he did not now succeed the Dutchman as No1. The 29-year-old Pole's departure seems almost inevitable, with Atletico Madrid's David de Gea looking set to move to Old Trafford this summer.
Whatever happens, Kuszczak claimed it had been a privilege to train alongside 40-year-old Van der Sar, who failed to sign off with a third Champions League title last night as Barça romped to a 3-1 victory at Wembley.
He put me on the bench for a long, long time and I don't think there is any goalkeeper in the world who can put him on the bench.
Tomasz Kuszczak on Edwin van der Sar
Substitute Kuszczak said: "Edwin is a terrific goalkeeper and I learnt a lot. He put me on the bench for a long, long time and I don't think there is any goalkeeper in the world who can put him on the bench. That's why it is not a surprise I sit on the bench.
"I came to this club five years ago with big hope that I was going to get the chance and a chance to play regularly, but Edwin never gave up and he always played well. He was, you can say, one of the best players in the team and obviously it was difficult to push him out.
"Now's he's finished and we are good friends. We spent a lot of nice moments together and I wish him all the best. We're going to keep in touch and I can still learn a lot from him."
Pole open to future offers
He added: "Things have changed now because obviously Edwin has finished. It doesn't matter which goalkeeper's going to come to Manchester United in the Premier League - it's going to be difficult for him because I know this league is a really tough league and the first team can lose against the last team.
"I would like to play regularly and get a chance to play more games, express myself and catch good form. It's difficult to show something based on one game in a month because we know in football, like in different sports, you have to have some games in a row, be on the pitch and then you can build up your confidence and do different things.
"I didn't get the chance enough over a few years but I don't know what is going to happen with me, to be honest." Kuszczak was expecting a decision on his own future "soon" and confirmed he would consider moving abroad.
He said: "I'm open. I would like to play football regularly and if I'm going to get a nice proposal from a different league, why not? I'm going to think about that. I love the Premier League. I know this league. I've been playing here for seven years now and I like this league. But all doors are open for me."
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Tomasz Kuszczak has led the tributes to Edwin van der Sar after his fellow goalkeeper played the last game of his career in Manchester United's UEFA Champions League final defeat to Barcelona.
Kuszczak insisted no other player could have ousted Van der Sar from the United side in the last five years and admitted he would look to leave if he did not now succeed the Dutchman as No1. The 29-year-old Pole's departure seems almost inevitable, with Atletico Madrid's David de Gea looking set to move to Old Trafford this summer.
Whatever happens, Kuszczak claimed it had been a privilege to train alongside 40-year-old Van der Sar, who failed to sign off with a third Champions League title last night as Barça romped to a 3-1 victory at Wembley.
He put me on the bench for a long, long time and I don't think there is any goalkeeper in the world who can put him on the bench.
Tomasz Kuszczak on Edwin van der Sar
Substitute Kuszczak said: "Edwin is a terrific goalkeeper and I learnt a lot. He put me on the bench for a long, long time and I don't think there is any goalkeeper in the world who can put him on the bench. That's why it is not a surprise I sit on the bench.
"I came to this club five years ago with big hope that I was going to get the chance and a chance to play regularly, but Edwin never gave up and he always played well. He was, you can say, one of the best players in the team and obviously it was difficult to push him out.
"Now's he's finished and we are good friends. We spent a lot of nice moments together and I wish him all the best. We're going to keep in touch and I can still learn a lot from him."
Pole open to future offers
He added: "Things have changed now because obviously Edwin has finished. It doesn't matter which goalkeeper's going to come to Manchester United in the Premier League - it's going to be difficult for him because I know this league is a really tough league and the first team can lose against the last team.
"I would like to play regularly and get a chance to play more games, express myself and catch good form. It's difficult to show something based on one game in a month because we know in football, like in different sports, you have to have some games in a row, be on the pitch and then you can build up your confidence and do different things.
"I didn't get the chance enough over a few years but I don't know what is going to happen with me, to be honest." Kuszczak was expecting a decision on his own future "soon" and confirmed he would consider moving abroad.
He said: "I'm open. I would like to play football regularly and if I'm going to get a nice proposal from a different league, why not? I'm going to think about that. I love the Premier League. I know this league. I've been playing here for seven years now and I like this league. But all doors are open for me."
Barça return home to fanfare
Barça return home to fanfare
Barcelona's Europe-conquering heroes paraded in an open-top, double-decker bus through cheering, packed streets and arrived to a roar of welcome at a bursting Camp Nou stadium.
Brandishing the UEFA Champions League trophy from their sublime 3-1 victory over Manchester United in London's Wembley stadium yesterday, players made a victorious entry one by one to their home pitch. The bigggest cheer from the 98,000-capacity crowd erupted for man of the match Lionel Messi, who scored the second goal.
"Actually, I have nothing to say to you," said the Messi, famed as a man of few words. "Simply, let's enjoy all this. Thank you for this season. And I hope we will be able to enjoy a lot more."
French international Eric Abidal, who has recovered from surgery to remove a liver tumour only two months ago, thanked captain Carles Puyol for allowing him the honour of receiving the trophy in Wembley. "Thanks to the captain for his gesture. It was the best day of my career," Abidal said.
Thank you for this season. And I hope we will be able to enjoy a lot more.
Lionel Messi, Barcelona forward
Defender Gerard Pique chose the venue to hit out at a slew of allegations against the team in the past season, some made by arch rivals Real Madrid, who they defeated to take the league title. "We don't take drugs. We don't take dives. And we don't buy referees. We just play football," said Pique.
The team had arrived in Barcelona from London just a few hours earlier. Accompanied by the deafening blast of Brazilian samba music and cheered by thousands of fans under a baking hot sun, the heroes weaved through the city in their bus, decked out in Barcelona's red and blue and the word "Champions" on the sides.
Wearing t-shirts emblazoned "CHA-MPI-ONS", coach Joseph Guardiola and his men were driven past the city's statue of Chrisopher Columbus, thronged with fans, some clinging on to the memorial for a better view. A few paces in front of the bus, Catalan mounted police paraded in red full-dress uniform.
Barcelona's Europe-conquering heroes paraded in an open-top, double-decker bus through cheering, packed streets and arrived to a roar of welcome at a bursting Camp Nou stadium.
Brandishing the UEFA Champions League trophy from their sublime 3-1 victory over Manchester United in London's Wembley stadium yesterday, players made a victorious entry one by one to their home pitch. The bigggest cheer from the 98,000-capacity crowd erupted for man of the match Lionel Messi, who scored the second goal.
"Actually, I have nothing to say to you," said the Messi, famed as a man of few words. "Simply, let's enjoy all this. Thank you for this season. And I hope we will be able to enjoy a lot more."
French international Eric Abidal, who has recovered from surgery to remove a liver tumour only two months ago, thanked captain Carles Puyol for allowing him the honour of receiving the trophy in Wembley. "Thanks to the captain for his gesture. It was the best day of my career," Abidal said.
Thank you for this season. And I hope we will be able to enjoy a lot more.
Lionel Messi, Barcelona forward
Defender Gerard Pique chose the venue to hit out at a slew of allegations against the team in the past season, some made by arch rivals Real Madrid, who they defeated to take the league title. "We don't take drugs. We don't take dives. And we don't buy referees. We just play football," said Pique.
The team had arrived in Barcelona from London just a few hours earlier. Accompanied by the deafening blast of Brazilian samba music and cheered by thousands of fans under a baking hot sun, the heroes weaved through the city in their bus, decked out in Barcelona's red and blue and the word "Champions" on the sides.
Wearing t-shirts emblazoned "CHA-MPI-ONS", coach Joseph Guardiola and his men were driven past the city's statue of Chrisopher Columbus, thronged with fans, some clinging on to the memorial for a better view. A few paces in front of the bus, Catalan mounted police paraded in red full-dress uniform.
Leonardo lifts first trophy with Inter
Leonardo lifts first trophy with Inter
Inter Milan finished a turbulent season today with a Coppa Italia title and no one was happier than coach Leonardo.
The Brazilian had an opportunity to lead the Nerazzurri past his former club AC Milan in the race to the Scudetto but they end up finishing as runners-up. Yet his players made sure he ended the campaign on a high with a 3-1 victory over Palermo in the Coppa Italia final in Rome.
"It has been an enormous satisfaction in a year that has been different for me and for Inter with so many changes," said Leonardo, who replaced Rafael Benitez in December after the Spaniard was sacked. "To be able to end the last game of the campaign with a trophy is something marvellous."
It has been an enormous satisfaction in a year that has been different for me and for Inter with so many changes.
Inter Milan coach Leonardo
Inter president Massimo Moratti believed Leonardo would deliver an honour in his debut season with the team. He also felt it important to recognise Palermo, who reached their first final since 1979 and made things interesting at the end when Ezequiel Munoz scored to make it 2-1.
Inter, who got two goals from Samuel Eto'o, killed the game off when substitute Diego Milito notched the team's third deep into stoppage time.
"Palermo is a beautiful team that has played a great game," said Moratti. "I congratulate Leonardo and my players because they gave everything tonight."
The two goals by Eto'o gave him 37 goals for the season in all competitions, one more than his previous record at Barcelona. "The important thing was to win," said Eto'o. "It's a good tally but without victories it would not be so sweet."
Eto'o, whose future at the club has been in doubt, added: "Moratti says that I'm staying and of course I will remain."
Palermo coach Delio Rossi's future is in question as well. The tactician was in tears after the game. "We leave with our heads held high," said Palermo midfielder Giulio Migliaccio. "We played but they are a team made out of champions. To have brought many fans from Palermo is already a matter of pride."
Inter Milan finished a turbulent season today with a Coppa Italia title and no one was happier than coach Leonardo.
The Brazilian had an opportunity to lead the Nerazzurri past his former club AC Milan in the race to the Scudetto but they end up finishing as runners-up. Yet his players made sure he ended the campaign on a high with a 3-1 victory over Palermo in the Coppa Italia final in Rome.
"It has been an enormous satisfaction in a year that has been different for me and for Inter with so many changes," said Leonardo, who replaced Rafael Benitez in December after the Spaniard was sacked. "To be able to end the last game of the campaign with a trophy is something marvellous."
It has been an enormous satisfaction in a year that has been different for me and for Inter with so many changes.
Inter Milan coach Leonardo
Inter president Massimo Moratti believed Leonardo would deliver an honour in his debut season with the team. He also felt it important to recognise Palermo, who reached their first final since 1979 and made things interesting at the end when Ezequiel Munoz scored to make it 2-1.
Inter, who got two goals from Samuel Eto'o, killed the game off when substitute Diego Milito notched the team's third deep into stoppage time.
"Palermo is a beautiful team that has played a great game," said Moratti. "I congratulate Leonardo and my players because they gave everything tonight."
The two goals by Eto'o gave him 37 goals for the season in all competitions, one more than his previous record at Barcelona. "The important thing was to win," said Eto'o. "It's a good tally but without victories it would not be so sweet."
Eto'o, whose future at the club has been in doubt, added: "Moratti says that I'm staying and of course I will remain."
Palermo coach Delio Rossi's future is in question as well. The tactician was in tears after the game. "We leave with our heads held high," said Palermo midfielder Giulio Migliaccio. "We played but they are a team made out of champions. To have brought many fans from Palermo is already a matter of pride."
Two members of the FIFA Executive Committee provisionally suspended
Two members of the FIFA Executive Committee provisionally suspended
The FIFA Ethics Committee, under the chairmanship of Petrus Damaseb (Namibia), decided today, 29 May 2011, to provisionally suspend, with immediate effect, FIFA Vice-President Jack A. Warner and FIFA Executive Committee member Mohamed bin Hammam from taking part in any football-related activity (administrative, sports or any other) worldwide after examining their cases in relation to alleged violations of the FIFA Code of Ethics linked to the upcoming FIFA presidential election.
The Ethics Committee considered that a provisional suspension was required while the investigation continues, taking into account the gravity of the case and the likelihood that a breach of the FIFA Code of Ethics and the FIFA Disciplinary Code has been committed.
Furthermore, the Ethics Committee examined the cases of two officials from the Caribbean Football Union (CFU) – Debbie Minguell and Jason Sylvester – also in relation to an alleged breach of the FIFA Code of Ethics and the FIFA Disciplinary Code. The committee also decided to provisionally suspend these two officials from taking part in any football-related activity.
Meanwhile, regarding the ethics proceedings opened against FIFA President Joseph S. Blatter at the request of Mohamed bin Hammam for a potential breach of the FIFA Code of Ethics, all charges were dismissed in full, as the Ethics Committee found that no breach of the Code of Ethics had been committed.
The Ethics Committee will meet again in due course in order to take a final decision on the matter after gathering more information and evidence on the cases.
The panel of the FIFA Ethics Committee was composed of deputy chairman Petrus Damaseb (Namibia) and members Juan Pedro Damiani (Uruguay), Sondre Kaafjord (Norway), Les Murray (Australia) and Robert Torres (Guam).
The FIFA Ethics Committee, under the chairmanship of Petrus Damaseb (Namibia), decided today, 29 May 2011, to provisionally suspend, with immediate effect, FIFA Vice-President Jack A. Warner and FIFA Executive Committee member Mohamed bin Hammam from taking part in any football-related activity (administrative, sports or any other) worldwide after examining their cases in relation to alleged violations of the FIFA Code of Ethics linked to the upcoming FIFA presidential election.
The Ethics Committee considered that a provisional suspension was required while the investigation continues, taking into account the gravity of the case and the likelihood that a breach of the FIFA Code of Ethics and the FIFA Disciplinary Code has been committed.
Furthermore, the Ethics Committee examined the cases of two officials from the Caribbean Football Union (CFU) – Debbie Minguell and Jason Sylvester – also in relation to an alleged breach of the FIFA Code of Ethics and the FIFA Disciplinary Code. The committee also decided to provisionally suspend these two officials from taking part in any football-related activity.
Meanwhile, regarding the ethics proceedings opened against FIFA President Joseph S. Blatter at the request of Mohamed bin Hammam for a potential breach of the FIFA Code of Ethics, all charges were dismissed in full, as the Ethics Committee found that no breach of the Code of Ethics had been committed.
The Ethics Committee will meet again in due course in order to take a final decision on the matter after gathering more information and evidence on the cases.
The panel of the FIFA Ethics Committee was composed of deputy chairman Petrus Damaseb (Namibia) and members Juan Pedro Damiani (Uruguay), Sondre Kaafjord (Norway), Les Murray (Australia) and Robert Torres (Guam).
East Asia's leaders maintain charge
East Asia's leaders maintain charge
The leagues of Japan, Korea Republic and China PR are finally starting to take shape, with the frontrunners this weekend maintaining their status at the top of the respective competitions. After spme topsy-turvy opening months, Kashiwa Reysol, Jeonbuk Motors and surprise packets Guangzhou Yiyao lead all others in three of east Asia’s elite competitions. Elsewhere, there is a look at United Arab Emirates, where the hunt for passage to the AFC Champions League continues, plus the latest from Malaysia and Fiji.
Japan’s J.League: Unfancied Kashiwa continue to fly high
Surprise early leaders Kashiwa Reysol continued their stunning form, this time against Vissel Kobe where a 3-0 victory moved pushed them further clear at the top. A brace from striker Junya Tanaka and a goal by Brazilian Leandro Dominguez lifted Reysol to a fourth victory in as many home games. Kashiwa benefitted from a 1-1 stalemate between Vegalta Sendai and Yokohama F. Marinos, who now sit three and four points off the pace respectively.
Big game: Sanfrecce Hiroshima jumped to fourth place, behind Yokohama on goal difference, thanks to a brace by Koji Morisaki in their 2-1 win over struggling J.League giants Kashima Antlers.
Headline-grabber: Kawasaki Frontale skipper Kengo Nakamura turned in a virtuoso performance to ensure Gamba Osaka’s week went from bad to worse. After being knocked out of Asia, Gamba’s misery continued in Kawasaki where Nakamura scored twice from outside the box, the second with a last-gasp free-kick that gave his side a dramatic 2-1 victory.
Korea Republic’s K-League: Jeonbuk remain top, aspirants falter
Jeonbuk Motors took a two-point lead at the top after a dramatic victory at Daejeon Citizen, while Pohang Steelers failed to preserve a two-goal lead at home against Daegu. Despite storming into the AFC Champions League quarter-finals last Wednesday, FC Seoul and Suwon Bluewings could not keep up the momentum suffering their second defeats in as many domestic games, against Seongnam Chunma and Incheon United respectively.
Big game: Lee Dong-Gook struck twice and set up another as Jeonbuk came from behind to beat Daejeon 3-2, to move two points clear of their closest rivals. Lee cancelled out Hwang Jin-San's opening goal with a header midway through the first half, although Park Sung-Ho again put the hosts ahead from the spot. However, Lee made it 2-2 with his clinical right foot with seven minutes remaining before turning provider for Lee Seung-Hyon's last-gasp winner.
Headline-grabber: Two foreigners opened their K-League accounts as Gyeongnam FC and Jeju United shared the spoils in Changwon. Jeju's Brazilian forward Jair scored his first goal for the islanders with a left-footed volley, only for Australian central-defender Luke De Vere to head home the equaliser just before the hour mark.
China PR's Super League: Spirited wins for old champs
Dark horses Guangzhou Yiyao maintained their place at the summit with a 1-1 home draw against Changchun Yatai, but two-time champions Shanghai Shenhua reduced the gap to two points after hammering Chengdu Blades 4-1 at home. Also impressing were battling champions Shandong Luneng, who emerged 3-0 victors over heavyweights Dalian Shide.
Big game: Despite crashing out of the AFC Champions League after losing 3-0 to Jeonbuk Motors, Tianjin Teda pushed any lingering disappointment aside to prevail 2-1 at Hangzhou Greentown. Yu Dabao put the visitors ahead before the break but the hosts drew level on 68 minutes courtesy of Du Wei's header, before Tianjin sealed three crucial points with Han Yanming’s last-minute strike.
Headline-grabber: Luis Salmeron struck four goals as Shanghai produced this round's biggest win. The Argentine forward cemented his place at the top of the scoring chart, three goals clear of second-placed Cleo of Guangzhou.
Elsewhere
Recently crowned United Arab Emirates champions Al Jazira needed a last minute equaliser from Aly Mabkhot to secure a 3-3 home draw with Al Shabab and maintain their unbeaten season. Despite being held 1-1 by Sharjah, Bani Yas are close to locking away second place and hold a four-point buffer with two rounds remaining. A battle royale is taking place in the contest to secure third, where possible AFC Champions League berths are on the line. Al Wasl, who await the arrival of new coach Diego Maradona next season, narrowly lead a group of four teams separated by just two points
Kelantan have move top with three rounds remaining in Malaysia, putting their nose in front of Terengganu by virtue of goals scored. The former secured a 1-0 win over Pahang, while their rivals fell by the same scoreline against Kedah. Selangor remain in the hunt and their 2-0 win over Negeri Sembilan has them two points off the pace.
Labasa have a narrow one-point lead over Ba, just past the halfway mark in Fiji, despite neither taking the field on the weekend. Lautoka moved three points off the pace thanks to a lone second-half goal from Abbu Zahid to edge past Nadroga, with the championship rapidly developing into a three-cornered contest.
The leagues of Japan, Korea Republic and China PR are finally starting to take shape, with the frontrunners this weekend maintaining their status at the top of the respective competitions. After spme topsy-turvy opening months, Kashiwa Reysol, Jeonbuk Motors and surprise packets Guangzhou Yiyao lead all others in three of east Asia’s elite competitions. Elsewhere, there is a look at United Arab Emirates, where the hunt for passage to the AFC Champions League continues, plus the latest from Malaysia and Fiji.
Japan’s J.League: Unfancied Kashiwa continue to fly high
Surprise early leaders Kashiwa Reysol continued their stunning form, this time against Vissel Kobe where a 3-0 victory moved pushed them further clear at the top. A brace from striker Junya Tanaka and a goal by Brazilian Leandro Dominguez lifted Reysol to a fourth victory in as many home games. Kashiwa benefitted from a 1-1 stalemate between Vegalta Sendai and Yokohama F. Marinos, who now sit three and four points off the pace respectively.
Big game: Sanfrecce Hiroshima jumped to fourth place, behind Yokohama on goal difference, thanks to a brace by Koji Morisaki in their 2-1 win over struggling J.League giants Kashima Antlers.
Headline-grabber: Kawasaki Frontale skipper Kengo Nakamura turned in a virtuoso performance to ensure Gamba Osaka’s week went from bad to worse. After being knocked out of Asia, Gamba’s misery continued in Kawasaki where Nakamura scored twice from outside the box, the second with a last-gasp free-kick that gave his side a dramatic 2-1 victory.
Korea Republic’s K-League: Jeonbuk remain top, aspirants falter
Jeonbuk Motors took a two-point lead at the top after a dramatic victory at Daejeon Citizen, while Pohang Steelers failed to preserve a two-goal lead at home against Daegu. Despite storming into the AFC Champions League quarter-finals last Wednesday, FC Seoul and Suwon Bluewings could not keep up the momentum suffering their second defeats in as many domestic games, against Seongnam Chunma and Incheon United respectively.
Big game: Lee Dong-Gook struck twice and set up another as Jeonbuk came from behind to beat Daejeon 3-2, to move two points clear of their closest rivals. Lee cancelled out Hwang Jin-San's opening goal with a header midway through the first half, although Park Sung-Ho again put the hosts ahead from the spot. However, Lee made it 2-2 with his clinical right foot with seven minutes remaining before turning provider for Lee Seung-Hyon's last-gasp winner.
Headline-grabber: Two foreigners opened their K-League accounts as Gyeongnam FC and Jeju United shared the spoils in Changwon. Jeju's Brazilian forward Jair scored his first goal for the islanders with a left-footed volley, only for Australian central-defender Luke De Vere to head home the equaliser just before the hour mark.
China PR's Super League: Spirited wins for old champs
Dark horses Guangzhou Yiyao maintained their place at the summit with a 1-1 home draw against Changchun Yatai, but two-time champions Shanghai Shenhua reduced the gap to two points after hammering Chengdu Blades 4-1 at home. Also impressing were battling champions Shandong Luneng, who emerged 3-0 victors over heavyweights Dalian Shide.
Big game: Despite crashing out of the AFC Champions League after losing 3-0 to Jeonbuk Motors, Tianjin Teda pushed any lingering disappointment aside to prevail 2-1 at Hangzhou Greentown. Yu Dabao put the visitors ahead before the break but the hosts drew level on 68 minutes courtesy of Du Wei's header, before Tianjin sealed three crucial points with Han Yanming’s last-minute strike.
Headline-grabber: Luis Salmeron struck four goals as Shanghai produced this round's biggest win. The Argentine forward cemented his place at the top of the scoring chart, three goals clear of second-placed Cleo of Guangzhou.
Elsewhere
Recently crowned United Arab Emirates champions Al Jazira needed a last minute equaliser from Aly Mabkhot to secure a 3-3 home draw with Al Shabab and maintain their unbeaten season. Despite being held 1-1 by Sharjah, Bani Yas are close to locking away second place and hold a four-point buffer with two rounds remaining. A battle royale is taking place in the contest to secure third, where possible AFC Champions League berths are on the line. Al Wasl, who await the arrival of new coach Diego Maradona next season, narrowly lead a group of four teams separated by just two points
Kelantan have move top with three rounds remaining in Malaysia, putting their nose in front of Terengganu by virtue of goals scored. The former secured a 1-0 win over Pahang, while their rivals fell by the same scoreline against Kedah. Selangor remain in the hunt and their 2-0 win over Negeri Sembilan has them two points off the pace.
Labasa have a narrow one-point lead over Ba, just past the halfway mark in Fiji, despite neither taking the field on the weekend. Lautoka moved three points off the pace thanks to a lone second-half goal from Abbu Zahid to edge past Nadroga, with the championship rapidly developing into a three-cornered contest.
FIFA President press conference: live today
FIFA President press conference: live today
A press conference will be held by FIFA President Joseph S. Blatter at the Home of FIFA in Zurich following today’s meeting of the FIFA Executive Committee.
The conference, which will be streamed live on FIFA.com, is scheduled for 18.00 CET, although this time is dependent on the duration of the meeting and therefore subject to change.
Please return to this article shortly before 18.00 CET to view the coverage.
A press conference will be held by FIFA President Joseph S. Blatter at the Home of FIFA in Zurich following today’s meeting of the FIFA Executive Committee.
The conference, which will be streamed live on FIFA.com, is scheduled for 18.00 CET, although this time is dependent on the duration of the meeting and therefore subject to change.
Please return to this article shortly before 18.00 CET to view the coverage.
Blokhin: Football is in my blood
Blokhin: Football is in my blood
Both on the field and in the dugout, Oleg Blokhin has made a habit of setting new standards. In his playing pomp, he was one of the world’s finest strikers, his speed, power and skill earning him a record number of USSR caps (112) and goals (42).
This ability to break new ground continued into Blokhin’s coaching career, most notably when he led his native Ukraine to their first-ever FIFA World Cup™ in 2006, and onwards to the competition’s quarter-finals. Now, after a short sabbatical, and with Ukraine preparing to host UEFA EURO 2012 next summer, the 58-year-old is back in charge and, as he told FIFA.com, he's set himself the loftiest of targets: winning Europe’s top prize.
FIFA.com: Oleg, next year Ukraine will co-host EURO 2012. How excited are you to be national coach for this event?
Oleg Blokhin: In one respect, it's great to be given such a privileged post. On the other hand, I understand perfectly the huge responsibility that now rests on my shoulders. I also realise that I have a double responsibility because EURO 2012 will take place in Ukraine. The closer the tournament gets, the more pressure there will be. Of course, my previous experience with the national team when we qualified for the World Cup in 2006 should help me a lot, as I'm used to the pressure and way of working in the national team. But there is always something new: I never made it to the European Championship as a player, so it will be interesting for me to feel the atmosphere of EURO 2012 as coach.
How important is this tournament for the Ukraine, its people and football in the country?
I think we will find out just before the tournament. But it's obvious, even now, that the European Championship can provide an essential boost for the development of Ukrainian football and in the development of our country's infrastructure. At the same time, EURO 2012 is a massive challenge for our country because we are hosting such a big event for the first time, and it will be seen as a test for our readiness to stage similar events in the future. It wouldn't be an exaggeration to say that the Ukrainian people are waiting impatiently for the show to begin and are eager to demonstrate Ukraine's famous hospitality.
How will you prepare your team in the coming months?
We have two upcoming friendlies against Uzbekistan and France, although we won't be able to play those with our strongest squad due to four or five of our players competing in the UEFA U-21 European Championship. The interests of the main team are always paramount, of course, but after discussions with Pavlo Yakovenko [head coach of the U-21 team] I decided not to take players away from the U-21s. After all, the guys deserved to play in this tournament. So the next time you will see the full-strength Ukraine squad is for the friendly match on 10 August against Sweden. We will also have a very intensive programme in Autumn: we have already agreed away matches with Czech Republic and Bulgaria, and it's planned that we will play Germany on 11 November in the reconstructed Olympic stadium in Kyiv. Negotiations are also ongoing regarding a match with the world and European champions, Spain. So, even without the qualifying games, we will definitely have the opportunity to play against strong opponents.
What can your team achieve at EURO 2012? Who do you consider to be the favourites?
The main task before this team is to win EURO 2012. But our first target must be to qualify from the group. Of course, we will strive to achieve the maximum, but without completing the first task, the main one is impossible. So we will move step-by-step. I think there are seven or eight favourites because all best football teams are from Europe with the exception of Brazil, Argentina and Uruguay. France, England, Italy, Spain, Germany and the Netherlands are all traditionally contenders, and Portugal could also become involved in this fight.
What are the main strengths and weaknesses of your team?
I've not long returned to the national team, so it's difficult to say at this stage. It would be better to ask this question after the two games we have coming up. But from what I have seen, I can say that first of all we should work to improve the team's defence The midfield and attack worry me less because I see some promise there even now.
Is Andriy Shevchenko still your key player?
He is one of the veterans of the team, a player on whose experience we count, and it is obvious that he will play an important role in our gameplan. But this doesn't mean that Shevchenko is our key player. We have a year until the European Championship and of course I would like Andriy to be in good condition. But at the same time, there are talented young guys in Ukraine and everything depends on how they play in defining matches and in defining moments. Because you can be the leader by name and not to be the leader out on the pitch. The most important thing for all the players is to express leadership qualities - the more leaders on the pitch, the stronger this team will be.
I never made it to the European Championship as a player, so it will be interesting for me to feel the atmosphere of EURO 2012 as coach.
Oleg Blokhin, Ukraine coach
Have you allowed yourself to think beyond EURO 2012 in terms of staying on to compete for a place at Brazil 2014?
Let’s wait and see. For the moment, I have a one-year contract and after that we will see what will happen. With the management of the Football Federation of Ukraine, we have decided that if everything is successful, we will find a way to continue our cooperation.
You played and coached at various different clubs. Where do you enjoy most?
In my career as a player, it is of course FC Dynamo [Kyiv], where I spent basically all my life. Although I went on to play for Vorwarts Steyr in Austria and in Cyprus with Aris Limassol, that was at the end of my career and I didn't spend much time there. As a coach, the most memorable time for me was with Olympiacos from Piraeus.
You stayed in Greece for a long time and coached several clubs. Why was that? Did you feel particularly at home in that country?
I thought I would come to Greece for a few years but as it happened I ended up staying for 12 years! It is a really good country and big on its football. Don't believe those people who say that Greece is “not a football country”. Those people are mistaken. I have the fondest memories of my time in Greece.
Before your recent return, you had been out of coaching since 2008. What have you been up to?
I spent a lot of time with my family, but at the same time I haven’t stepped aside from football: I watched games, analysed, and paid particular attention to the performance of the national team. Football is in my blood, that's why I could just put it aside. I just had enough time to spend together with my wife and children, which is time you always lack when you're coaching. But now I have one more big child – the national team of Ukraine! And I intend to care for it in a proper way. As for my own children, they are getting older and understand that their father is going to work again.
What was your most spectacular goal and game as a coach and player?
The most memorable for me are the three goals that I scored against Bayern Munich in two matches for the 1975 UEFA Super Cup. The most spectacular of the three was the goal scored in the away match when I dribbled past four defenders - people said it was fantastic at the time. And the most beautiful win in my coaching career would be with the national team in Turkey, when we won 3-0. It was a very hard game in Istanbul, but we managed to get a spectacular victory and gain a very important result. The same thing could be said about our [1-0] away win in Greece – a very difficult game and an essential win. In general, the best achievement for me as a coach was in getting first place in our 2006 World Cup qualifying group.
Do you think the style of football has changed from the last century? If so, how? And what would you say has improved?
I'm a fan of dividing football [into eras]. Every time has its own style of the game and its own great football players. People still remember the mastership of outstanding players of the last century such as Puskas, Yashin, Cruyff, Pele, Maradona. Now we have football masters like Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. Every time period had good football. Of course, football changes, becoming more speedy, with more pressing, dynamic play and athleticism. One should also point out the game has become very compacted in midfield. This is the tendency of modern football.
And what remains unchanged?
The stars who create the show: Messi, Ronaldo, Iniesta, Xavi, Rooney. There still are many football fans who come to watch because those players are able to create something unforgettable.
Both on the field and in the dugout, Oleg Blokhin has made a habit of setting new standards. In his playing pomp, he was one of the world’s finest strikers, his speed, power and skill earning him a record number of USSR caps (112) and goals (42).
This ability to break new ground continued into Blokhin’s coaching career, most notably when he led his native Ukraine to their first-ever FIFA World Cup™ in 2006, and onwards to the competition’s quarter-finals. Now, after a short sabbatical, and with Ukraine preparing to host UEFA EURO 2012 next summer, the 58-year-old is back in charge and, as he told FIFA.com, he's set himself the loftiest of targets: winning Europe’s top prize.
FIFA.com: Oleg, next year Ukraine will co-host EURO 2012. How excited are you to be national coach for this event?
Oleg Blokhin: In one respect, it's great to be given such a privileged post. On the other hand, I understand perfectly the huge responsibility that now rests on my shoulders. I also realise that I have a double responsibility because EURO 2012 will take place in Ukraine. The closer the tournament gets, the more pressure there will be. Of course, my previous experience with the national team when we qualified for the World Cup in 2006 should help me a lot, as I'm used to the pressure and way of working in the national team. But there is always something new: I never made it to the European Championship as a player, so it will be interesting for me to feel the atmosphere of EURO 2012 as coach.
How important is this tournament for the Ukraine, its people and football in the country?
I think we will find out just before the tournament. But it's obvious, even now, that the European Championship can provide an essential boost for the development of Ukrainian football and in the development of our country's infrastructure. At the same time, EURO 2012 is a massive challenge for our country because we are hosting such a big event for the first time, and it will be seen as a test for our readiness to stage similar events in the future. It wouldn't be an exaggeration to say that the Ukrainian people are waiting impatiently for the show to begin and are eager to demonstrate Ukraine's famous hospitality.
How will you prepare your team in the coming months?
We have two upcoming friendlies against Uzbekistan and France, although we won't be able to play those with our strongest squad due to four or five of our players competing in the UEFA U-21 European Championship. The interests of the main team are always paramount, of course, but after discussions with Pavlo Yakovenko [head coach of the U-21 team] I decided not to take players away from the U-21s. After all, the guys deserved to play in this tournament. So the next time you will see the full-strength Ukraine squad is for the friendly match on 10 August against Sweden. We will also have a very intensive programme in Autumn: we have already agreed away matches with Czech Republic and Bulgaria, and it's planned that we will play Germany on 11 November in the reconstructed Olympic stadium in Kyiv. Negotiations are also ongoing regarding a match with the world and European champions, Spain. So, even without the qualifying games, we will definitely have the opportunity to play against strong opponents.
What can your team achieve at EURO 2012? Who do you consider to be the favourites?
The main task before this team is to win EURO 2012. But our first target must be to qualify from the group. Of course, we will strive to achieve the maximum, but without completing the first task, the main one is impossible. So we will move step-by-step. I think there are seven or eight favourites because all best football teams are from Europe with the exception of Brazil, Argentina and Uruguay. France, England, Italy, Spain, Germany and the Netherlands are all traditionally contenders, and Portugal could also become involved in this fight.
What are the main strengths and weaknesses of your team?
I've not long returned to the national team, so it's difficult to say at this stage. It would be better to ask this question after the two games we have coming up. But from what I have seen, I can say that first of all we should work to improve the team's defence The midfield and attack worry me less because I see some promise there even now.
Is Andriy Shevchenko still your key player?
He is one of the veterans of the team, a player on whose experience we count, and it is obvious that he will play an important role in our gameplan. But this doesn't mean that Shevchenko is our key player. We have a year until the European Championship and of course I would like Andriy to be in good condition. But at the same time, there are talented young guys in Ukraine and everything depends on how they play in defining matches and in defining moments. Because you can be the leader by name and not to be the leader out on the pitch. The most important thing for all the players is to express leadership qualities - the more leaders on the pitch, the stronger this team will be.
I never made it to the European Championship as a player, so it will be interesting for me to feel the atmosphere of EURO 2012 as coach.
Oleg Blokhin, Ukraine coach
Have you allowed yourself to think beyond EURO 2012 in terms of staying on to compete for a place at Brazil 2014?
Let’s wait and see. For the moment, I have a one-year contract and after that we will see what will happen. With the management of the Football Federation of Ukraine, we have decided that if everything is successful, we will find a way to continue our cooperation.
You played and coached at various different clubs. Where do you enjoy most?
In my career as a player, it is of course FC Dynamo [Kyiv], where I spent basically all my life. Although I went on to play for Vorwarts Steyr in Austria and in Cyprus with Aris Limassol, that was at the end of my career and I didn't spend much time there. As a coach, the most memorable time for me was with Olympiacos from Piraeus.
You stayed in Greece for a long time and coached several clubs. Why was that? Did you feel particularly at home in that country?
I thought I would come to Greece for a few years but as it happened I ended up staying for 12 years! It is a really good country and big on its football. Don't believe those people who say that Greece is “not a football country”. Those people are mistaken. I have the fondest memories of my time in Greece.
Before your recent return, you had been out of coaching since 2008. What have you been up to?
I spent a lot of time with my family, but at the same time I haven’t stepped aside from football: I watched games, analysed, and paid particular attention to the performance of the national team. Football is in my blood, that's why I could just put it aside. I just had enough time to spend together with my wife and children, which is time you always lack when you're coaching. But now I have one more big child – the national team of Ukraine! And I intend to care for it in a proper way. As for my own children, they are getting older and understand that their father is going to work again.
What was your most spectacular goal and game as a coach and player?
The most memorable for me are the three goals that I scored against Bayern Munich in two matches for the 1975 UEFA Super Cup. The most spectacular of the three was the goal scored in the away match when I dribbled past four defenders - people said it was fantastic at the time. And the most beautiful win in my coaching career would be with the national team in Turkey, when we won 3-0. It was a very hard game in Istanbul, but we managed to get a spectacular victory and gain a very important result. The same thing could be said about our [1-0] away win in Greece – a very difficult game and an essential win. In general, the best achievement for me as a coach was in getting first place in our 2006 World Cup qualifying group.
Do you think the style of football has changed from the last century? If so, how? And what would you say has improved?
I'm a fan of dividing football [into eras]. Every time has its own style of the game and its own great football players. People still remember the mastership of outstanding players of the last century such as Puskas, Yashin, Cruyff, Pele, Maradona. Now we have football masters like Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. Every time period had good football. Of course, football changes, becoming more speedy, with more pressing, dynamic play and athleticism. One should also point out the game has become very compacted in midfield. This is the tendency of modern football.
And what remains unchanged?
The stars who create the show: Messi, Ronaldo, Iniesta, Xavi, Rooney. There still are many football fans who come to watch because those players are able to create something unforgettable.
Thursday, May 26, 2011
Big guns fire again in Central America
Big guns fire again in Central America
There is no greater joy for a football fan than seeing their team win a trophy after a long barren run, especially if the club in question is a big name that has fallen from grace.
Just ask the legions of supporters of El Salvador’s Alianza and Motagua of Honduras, two of Central America’s most prestigious footballing institutions, who finally got their hands on some league silverware after a long time out of the limelight. FIFA.com fills in the details on two overdue triumphs.
Alianza reborn
The bigger of the two parties took place in San Salvador, where Alianza fans spilled out on to the streets to celebrate their first championship triumph in the keenly disputed Salvadoran league in seven years. Redemption came for Los Elefantes, the capital city’s traditional heavyweights, after they prevailed 2-1 in the play-off final against FAS, another of the country’s leading lights.
Victory was especially sweet for their long-suffering fans, who decided four years ago to boycott the Estadio Cuscatlan in protest at the team’s poor results and their failure to win a trophy since 2004.
Motagua is my life. My wife gets jealous sometimes and says I love the club more than I do her.
Motagua boss Maradiaga
With the stands empty and the team in crisis, there seemed to be no hope for a once-proud club, who went through 2007 and 2008 without drafting in a single new player to the squad. The turning point came a year later when the club faced second division outfit AFI-El Roble in a promotion/relegation play-off. On seeing their club poised for the drop, Aliancista fans put their grudges aside and turned up in their thousands to cheer the team on. Their support was rewarded with a 3-1 victory that safeguarded Alianza’s top-flight status.
Two years later, inspired by the goals of star asset Rodolfo Zelaya, Alianza fought their way to the final of the 2010 Apertura only to lose to La Firpo. The slumbering giants were back in business, however, and six months on from that defeat, Zelaya’s brace against FAS has put them back where they belong.
The match-winner was understandably elated when he shared his thoughts after the final whistle: “Some people didn’t believe in us. The team’s been through a lot but we’ve kept on going, and words can’t describe how it feels to make these wonderful people so happy again after seven long years.”
Primi power drives Motagua
A few miles to the south in Honduras, another spell in the wilderness was coming to an end. After a five-year wait, Motagua finally lifted the league trophy again after beating arch-rivals Olimpia 3-1 at the Estadio Tiburcio Carias to complete a 5-3 aggregate win.
The chief architect of the return of Las Águilas Azules to the pinnacle is legendary coach Ramón “Primitivo” Maradiaga. It was Primi, as he is affectionately known, who was at the Motagua helm in 2007, when the club enjoyed the most glittering year in its history. After taking the 2006/07 Apertura title, El Ciclón lived up to their nickname and swept all before them in the UNCAF Cup, their first international trophy.
Yet when Maradiaga left to take charge of the Guatemala national team, Motagua went into decline, failing even to reach a league final in his absence. Their lack of success prompted the fans to call for Primi’s return. And finally, three years after his departure, the board relented and called on Maradiaga’s services once more.
There have been ups and downs since then. Following defeat to Victoria in February, Águilas fans turned their back on Primi and called for him to go. He stuck to the task, however, and has been rewarded for his perseverance with a long-awaited league crown and a huge celebration in Tegucigalpa.
After seeing his side dispose of Olimpia, Maradiaga spoke about his special relationship with the club: “Motagua is my life. My wife gets jealous sometimes and says I love the club more than I do her. At times this season some of the fans have been sick of the sight of me, but it’s all been worth it in the end.”
It has certainly been a momentous few days for Motagua and Alianza, and the champagne they have been toasting their successes with will rarely have tasted better.
There is no greater joy for a football fan than seeing their team win a trophy after a long barren run, especially if the club in question is a big name that has fallen from grace.
Just ask the legions of supporters of El Salvador’s Alianza and Motagua of Honduras, two of Central America’s most prestigious footballing institutions, who finally got their hands on some league silverware after a long time out of the limelight. FIFA.com fills in the details on two overdue triumphs.
Alianza reborn
The bigger of the two parties took place in San Salvador, where Alianza fans spilled out on to the streets to celebrate their first championship triumph in the keenly disputed Salvadoran league in seven years. Redemption came for Los Elefantes, the capital city’s traditional heavyweights, after they prevailed 2-1 in the play-off final against FAS, another of the country’s leading lights.
Victory was especially sweet for their long-suffering fans, who decided four years ago to boycott the Estadio Cuscatlan in protest at the team’s poor results and their failure to win a trophy since 2004.
Motagua is my life. My wife gets jealous sometimes and says I love the club more than I do her.
Motagua boss Maradiaga
With the stands empty and the team in crisis, there seemed to be no hope for a once-proud club, who went through 2007 and 2008 without drafting in a single new player to the squad. The turning point came a year later when the club faced second division outfit AFI-El Roble in a promotion/relegation play-off. On seeing their club poised for the drop, Aliancista fans put their grudges aside and turned up in their thousands to cheer the team on. Their support was rewarded with a 3-1 victory that safeguarded Alianza’s top-flight status.
Two years later, inspired by the goals of star asset Rodolfo Zelaya, Alianza fought their way to the final of the 2010 Apertura only to lose to La Firpo. The slumbering giants were back in business, however, and six months on from that defeat, Zelaya’s brace against FAS has put them back where they belong.
The match-winner was understandably elated when he shared his thoughts after the final whistle: “Some people didn’t believe in us. The team’s been through a lot but we’ve kept on going, and words can’t describe how it feels to make these wonderful people so happy again after seven long years.”
Primi power drives Motagua
A few miles to the south in Honduras, another spell in the wilderness was coming to an end. After a five-year wait, Motagua finally lifted the league trophy again after beating arch-rivals Olimpia 3-1 at the Estadio Tiburcio Carias to complete a 5-3 aggregate win.
The chief architect of the return of Las Águilas Azules to the pinnacle is legendary coach Ramón “Primitivo” Maradiaga. It was Primi, as he is affectionately known, who was at the Motagua helm in 2007, when the club enjoyed the most glittering year in its history. After taking the 2006/07 Apertura title, El Ciclón lived up to their nickname and swept all before them in the UNCAF Cup, their first international trophy.
Yet when Maradiaga left to take charge of the Guatemala national team, Motagua went into decline, failing even to reach a league final in his absence. Their lack of success prompted the fans to call for Primi’s return. And finally, three years after his departure, the board relented and called on Maradiaga’s services once more.
There have been ups and downs since then. Following defeat to Victoria in February, Águilas fans turned their back on Primi and called for him to go. He stuck to the task, however, and has been rewarded for his perseverance with a long-awaited league crown and a huge celebration in Tegucigalpa.
After seeing his side dispose of Olimpia, Maradiaga spoke about his special relationship with the club: “Motagua is my life. My wife gets jealous sometimes and says I love the club more than I do her. At times this season some of the fans have been sick of the sight of me, but it’s all been worth it in the end.”
It has certainly been a momentous few days for Motagua and Alianza, and the champagne they have been toasting their successes with will rarely have tasted better.
Big guns fire again in Central America
Big guns fire again in Central America
There is no greater joy for a football fan than seeing their team win a trophy after a long barren run, especially if the club in question is a big name that has fallen from grace.
Just ask the legions of supporters of El Salvador’s Alianza and Motagua of Honduras, two of Central America’s most prestigious footballing institutions, who finally got their hands on some league silverware after a long time out of the limelight. FIFA.com fills in the details on two overdue triumphs.
Alianza reborn
The bigger of the two parties took place in San Salvador, where Alianza fans spilled out on to the streets to celebrate their first championship triumph in the keenly disputed Salvadoran league in seven years. Redemption came for Los Elefantes, the capital city’s traditional heavyweights, after they prevailed 2-1 in the play-off final against FAS, another of the country’s leading lights.
Victory was especially sweet for their long-suffering fans, who decided four years ago to boycott the Estadio Cuscatlan in protest at the team’s poor results and their failure to win a trophy since 2004.
Motagua is my life. My wife gets jealous sometimes and says I love the club more than I do her.
Motagua boss Maradiaga
With the stands empty and the team in crisis, there seemed to be no hope for a once-proud club, who went through 2007 and 2008 without drafting in a single new player to the squad. The turning point came a year later when the club faced second division outfit AFI-El Roble in a promotion/relegation play-off. On seeing their club poised for the drop, Aliancista fans put their grudges aside and turned up in their thousands to cheer the team on. Their support was rewarded with a 3-1 victory that safeguarded Alianza’s top-flight status.
Two years later, inspired by the goals of star asset Rodolfo Zelaya, Alianza fought their way to the final of the 2010 Apertura only to lose to La Firpo. The slumbering giants were back in business, however, and six months on from that defeat, Zelaya’s brace against FAS has put them back where they belong.
The match-winner was understandably elated when he shared his thoughts after the final whistle: “Some people didn’t believe in us. The team’s been through a lot but we’ve kept on going, and words can’t describe how it feels to make these wonderful people so happy again after seven long years.”
Primi power drives Motagua
A few miles to the south in Honduras, another spell in the wilderness was coming to an end. After a five-year wait, Motagua finally lifted the league trophy again after beating arch-rivals Olimpia 3-1 at the Estadio Tiburcio Carias to complete a 5-3 aggregate win.
The chief architect of the return of Las Águilas Azules to the pinnacle is legendary coach Ramón “Primitivo” Maradiaga. It was Primi, as he is affectionately known, who was at the Motagua helm in 2007, when the club enjoyed the most glittering year in its history. After taking the 2006/07 Apertura title, El Ciclón lived up to their nickname and swept all before them in the UNCAF Cup, their first international trophy.
Yet when Maradiaga left to take charge of the Guatemala national team, Motagua went into decline, failing even to reach a league final in his absence. Their lack of success prompted the fans to call for Primi’s return. And finally, three years after his departure, the board relented and called on Maradiaga’s services once more.
There have been ups and downs since then. Following defeat to Victoria in February, Águilas fans turned their back on Primi and called for him to go. He stuck to the task, however, and has been rewarded for his perseverance with a long-awaited league crown and a huge celebration in Tegucigalpa.
After seeing his side dispose of Olimpia, Maradiaga spoke about his special relationship with the club: “Motagua is my life. My wife gets jealous sometimes and says I love the club more than I do her. At times this season some of the fans have been sick of the sight of me, but it’s all been worth it in the end.”
It has certainly been a momentous few days for Motagua and Alianza, and the champagne they have been toasting their successes with will rarely have tasted better.
There is no greater joy for a football fan than seeing their team win a trophy after a long barren run, especially if the club in question is a big name that has fallen from grace.
Just ask the legions of supporters of El Salvador’s Alianza and Motagua of Honduras, two of Central America’s most prestigious footballing institutions, who finally got their hands on some league silverware after a long time out of the limelight. FIFA.com fills in the details on two overdue triumphs.
Alianza reborn
The bigger of the two parties took place in San Salvador, where Alianza fans spilled out on to the streets to celebrate their first championship triumph in the keenly disputed Salvadoran league in seven years. Redemption came for Los Elefantes, the capital city’s traditional heavyweights, after they prevailed 2-1 in the play-off final against FAS, another of the country’s leading lights.
Victory was especially sweet for their long-suffering fans, who decided four years ago to boycott the Estadio Cuscatlan in protest at the team’s poor results and their failure to win a trophy since 2004.
Motagua is my life. My wife gets jealous sometimes and says I love the club more than I do her.
Motagua boss Maradiaga
With the stands empty and the team in crisis, there seemed to be no hope for a once-proud club, who went through 2007 and 2008 without drafting in a single new player to the squad. The turning point came a year later when the club faced second division outfit AFI-El Roble in a promotion/relegation play-off. On seeing their club poised for the drop, Aliancista fans put their grudges aside and turned up in their thousands to cheer the team on. Their support was rewarded with a 3-1 victory that safeguarded Alianza’s top-flight status.
Two years later, inspired by the goals of star asset Rodolfo Zelaya, Alianza fought their way to the final of the 2010 Apertura only to lose to La Firpo. The slumbering giants were back in business, however, and six months on from that defeat, Zelaya’s brace against FAS has put them back where they belong.
The match-winner was understandably elated when he shared his thoughts after the final whistle: “Some people didn’t believe in us. The team’s been through a lot but we’ve kept on going, and words can’t describe how it feels to make these wonderful people so happy again after seven long years.”
Primi power drives Motagua
A few miles to the south in Honduras, another spell in the wilderness was coming to an end. After a five-year wait, Motagua finally lifted the league trophy again after beating arch-rivals Olimpia 3-1 at the Estadio Tiburcio Carias to complete a 5-3 aggregate win.
The chief architect of the return of Las Águilas Azules to the pinnacle is legendary coach Ramón “Primitivo” Maradiaga. It was Primi, as he is affectionately known, who was at the Motagua helm in 2007, when the club enjoyed the most glittering year in its history. After taking the 2006/07 Apertura title, El Ciclón lived up to their nickname and swept all before them in the UNCAF Cup, their first international trophy.
Yet when Maradiaga left to take charge of the Guatemala national team, Motagua went into decline, failing even to reach a league final in his absence. Their lack of success prompted the fans to call for Primi’s return. And finally, three years after his departure, the board relented and called on Maradiaga’s services once more.
There have been ups and downs since then. Following defeat to Victoria in February, Águilas fans turned their back on Primi and called for him to go. He stuck to the task, however, and has been rewarded for his perseverance with a long-awaited league crown and a huge celebration in Tegucigalpa.
After seeing his side dispose of Olimpia, Maradiaga spoke about his special relationship with the club: “Motagua is my life. My wife gets jealous sometimes and says I love the club more than I do her. At times this season some of the fans have been sick of the sight of me, but it’s all been worth it in the end.”
It has certainly been a momentous few days for Motagua and Alianza, and the champagne they have been toasting their successes with will rarely have tasted better.
FIFA Ethics Committee to meet on 29 May
FIFA Ethics Committee to meet on 29 May
On 24 May 2011, FIFA Executive Committee member and CONCACAF General Secretary Chuck Blazer reported to FIFA Secretary General Jérôme Valcke possible violations of the FIFA Code of Ethics allegedly committed by officials.
In particular, the report referred to a special meeting of the Caribbean Football Union (CFU), apparently organised jointly by FIFA Vice-President Jack A. Warner and FIFA Executive Committee member Mohamed bin Hammam, which took place on 10 and 11 May 2011. This meeting was linked to the upcoming FIFA presidential election.
In view of the facts alleged in this report, which include bribery allegations, FIFA Secretary General Jérôme Valcke, in compliance with art. 16 of the FIFA Code of Ethics, yesterday requested the FIFA Ethics Committee to open ethics proceedings.
Subsequently, the FIFA Ethics Committee today, 25 May 2011, opened a procedure against the following officials:
- FIFA Vice-President Jack A. Warner
- FIFA Executive Committee member Mohamed bin Hammam
- CFU official Debbie Minguell
- CFU official Jason Sylvester
The aforementioned officials have been invited to take position by 27 May 2011 and to attend a hearing by the FIFA Ethics Committee at the Home of FIFA (Zurich) on 29 May 2011.
Based on art. 87.1 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code and art. 17.2 of the FIFA Code of Ethics, the chairman of the FIFA Ethics Committee, Claudio Sulser, has declined to participate in this FIFA Ethics Committee meeting due to the Swiss nationality he shares with Joseph S. Blatter, a candidate for the upcoming FIFA presidency. The meeting will therefore be chaired by the deputy chairman of the FIFA Ethics Committee, Petrus Damaseb (Namibia).
No additional comments will be made by FIFA until further notice.
On 24 May 2011, FIFA Executive Committee member and CONCACAF General Secretary Chuck Blazer reported to FIFA Secretary General Jérôme Valcke possible violations of the FIFA Code of Ethics allegedly committed by officials.
In particular, the report referred to a special meeting of the Caribbean Football Union (CFU), apparently organised jointly by FIFA Vice-President Jack A. Warner and FIFA Executive Committee member Mohamed bin Hammam, which took place on 10 and 11 May 2011. This meeting was linked to the upcoming FIFA presidential election.
In view of the facts alleged in this report, which include bribery allegations, FIFA Secretary General Jérôme Valcke, in compliance with art. 16 of the FIFA Code of Ethics, yesterday requested the FIFA Ethics Committee to open ethics proceedings.
Subsequently, the FIFA Ethics Committee today, 25 May 2011, opened a procedure against the following officials:
- FIFA Vice-President Jack A. Warner
- FIFA Executive Committee member Mohamed bin Hammam
- CFU official Debbie Minguell
- CFU official Jason Sylvester
The aforementioned officials have been invited to take position by 27 May 2011 and to attend a hearing by the FIFA Ethics Committee at the Home of FIFA (Zurich) on 29 May 2011.
Based on art. 87.1 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code and art. 17.2 of the FIFA Code of Ethics, the chairman of the FIFA Ethics Committee, Claudio Sulser, has declined to participate in this FIFA Ethics Committee meeting due to the Swiss nationality he shares with Joseph S. Blatter, a candidate for the upcoming FIFA presidency. The meeting will therefore be chaired by the deputy chairman of the FIFA Ethics Committee, Petrus Damaseb (Namibia).
No additional comments will be made by FIFA until further notice.
Carrick: Wembley final is so special
Carrick: Wembley final is so special
Looking relaxed but determined with just a few days to go until Saturday's UEFA Champions League final against Barcelona, Michael Carrick was certainly 'talking the talk 'ahead of the clash against Lionel Messi and Co.
The Manchester United and England midfielder was eager to stress that the Red Devils had learned lessons from the defeat by the Spanish outfit in Rome two years ago, and he believes that the squad is stronger as a result. In this exclusive interview with FIFA.com, Carrick also discusses the impending retirement of Edwin van der Sar, the confidence instilled in the squad by Sir Alex Ferguson and his admiration for Xavi and Andres Iniesta.
FIFA.com: Michael, how have the Manchester United squad grown since 2009?
Michael Carrick: I think we’ve just gained experience. We’ve had good times and we have had the odd blip. You probably learn more from the negative experiences than you do from the good in some ways. We are a close-knit squad and the spirit is probably as good as it has ever been. We’re all trying to pull together to be successful for each other.
How are you feeling ahead of the match?
We’re anxious to get started. There are obviously a few nerves because it’s a huge occasion and there’s so much to gain, [but] we’re just looking forward to it now.
Why is this the ultimate club game in European football?
We’ve won our league, they’ve won theirs and we have both been successful for the last few years. We have played each other a couple of times in a semi-final and a final, so the consistency of both teams is there and obviously it’s all on the night now.
I’m trying to play it down in my mind and not get too carried away with how big the game is and what it means but obviously we are lucky to be part of such an occasion.
Michael Carrick, England midfielder.
Sir Alex described United as being ‘on the carousel’ the last time you played them. What are you going to do to get off it this time around?
We’ve just got to play to our strengths and try and win the game. We’ve got to respect the strengths that Barcelona have because they are a terrific team, but we’re there for a reason as well. We’ve won the league, so we’re obviously doing something right, and we'll take that into the game. We’re a good match for anyone.
You’re going in as underdogs. Are United comfortable with that?
It doesn’t matter who are favourites, it’s a one-off game and anything can happen. It’s unusual because in most games we are the favourites, but it doesn’t really come into it for us.
United may not have received as much respect as they should have done for their achievements. Do the players feel that the media haven’t given you enough credit?
As players, that’s not what we’re about. We’re about winning things. We’re not feeling sorry for ourselves because of that. Winning is winning, whatever way it comes.
As an Englishman playing in a Champions League final at Wembley, what does that mean to you?
It’s so special. I’m trying to play it down in my mind, and not get too carried away with how big the game is and what it means, but obviously we are lucky to be part of such an occasion.
It’s Edwin Van der Sar’s last game on Saturday. Did you want him to stay on for another season?
When we won the league last Saturday all the boys were singing ‘one more year’, but it was more just a bit of fun really. Edwin’s big enough to make his own decision. He feels it’s the right time and who’s to argue? Hopefully we can send him off with another good memory.
All training last week was geared towards Barcelona and all our thoughts have been the same, so there’s an extra focus and concentration and excitement.
Michael Carrick.
Obviously being excited ahead of the game, do you approach training differently?
No. In some ways it’s like any other week. There’s a bit more tactical work this week than we’re used to but in terms of thinking about not getting injured, you just put that to the back of your mind and focus on the job and just get ready for the weekend.
Do you think that places are still up for grabs?
Yes, every day here in training is a test. You’ve got to be on your game, because the standard is so high and the squad is so strong and the amount of options the manager has is there for all to see. It’s the manager’s decision and I wouldn’t like to have to make it.
Has this been more of a squad effort than in 2009?
I think that’s just the way it is now with the amount of games we play and the squad we have now, the players are chomping at the bit to get into it. The lads all buy into the decisions of the manager. If he leaves you out for a game or two, then you come back because you can see the bigger picture, which is winning leagues and competing for Champions Leagues.
As a midfielder yourself, what do you think of Xavi and Iniesta when you watch them?
They’re top players. I watch and enjoy them just as much as anybody else when I’m watching them on the TV, but when you’re up against them you have a job. You respect them for who they are and how good they are, but at the same time they’re the opposition.
Having a manager that has seen it and done it in football, how much confidence does that give you?
It’s massive for somebody who has achieved so much in the game to believe in you as a player. It gives you huge belief and confidence and it’s good to have him behind you, giving advice and helping you along the way.
Do you see a difference in him on weeks like this?
I think there is a difference in everyone. The focus changed for us since Blackburn, and the focus has solely been on this game. All training last week was geared towards Barcelona and all our thoughts have been the same, so there’s an extra focus and concentration and excitement.
Many fans will be expecting an open game of football but as a player, what do you think the game will be like?
It’s so hard to tell. When you look at the last final, we were on top for the first ten minutes looking to score and then they scored and you just can’t predict how it’s going to be. The last final really wasn’t as bad as people made out. There were times in the game where we were right in it. It wasn’t a total disaster, but there are things that we want to change and things that we will change.
Looking relaxed but determined with just a few days to go until Saturday's UEFA Champions League final against Barcelona, Michael Carrick was certainly 'talking the talk 'ahead of the clash against Lionel Messi and Co.
The Manchester United and England midfielder was eager to stress that the Red Devils had learned lessons from the defeat by the Spanish outfit in Rome two years ago, and he believes that the squad is stronger as a result. In this exclusive interview with FIFA.com, Carrick also discusses the impending retirement of Edwin van der Sar, the confidence instilled in the squad by Sir Alex Ferguson and his admiration for Xavi and Andres Iniesta.
FIFA.com: Michael, how have the Manchester United squad grown since 2009?
Michael Carrick: I think we’ve just gained experience. We’ve had good times and we have had the odd blip. You probably learn more from the negative experiences than you do from the good in some ways. We are a close-knit squad and the spirit is probably as good as it has ever been. We’re all trying to pull together to be successful for each other.
How are you feeling ahead of the match?
We’re anxious to get started. There are obviously a few nerves because it’s a huge occasion and there’s so much to gain, [but] we’re just looking forward to it now.
Why is this the ultimate club game in European football?
We’ve won our league, they’ve won theirs and we have both been successful for the last few years. We have played each other a couple of times in a semi-final and a final, so the consistency of both teams is there and obviously it’s all on the night now.
I’m trying to play it down in my mind and not get too carried away with how big the game is and what it means but obviously we are lucky to be part of such an occasion.
Michael Carrick, England midfielder.
Sir Alex described United as being ‘on the carousel’ the last time you played them. What are you going to do to get off it this time around?
We’ve just got to play to our strengths and try and win the game. We’ve got to respect the strengths that Barcelona have because they are a terrific team, but we’re there for a reason as well. We’ve won the league, so we’re obviously doing something right, and we'll take that into the game. We’re a good match for anyone.
You’re going in as underdogs. Are United comfortable with that?
It doesn’t matter who are favourites, it’s a one-off game and anything can happen. It’s unusual because in most games we are the favourites, but it doesn’t really come into it for us.
United may not have received as much respect as they should have done for their achievements. Do the players feel that the media haven’t given you enough credit?
As players, that’s not what we’re about. We’re about winning things. We’re not feeling sorry for ourselves because of that. Winning is winning, whatever way it comes.
As an Englishman playing in a Champions League final at Wembley, what does that mean to you?
It’s so special. I’m trying to play it down in my mind, and not get too carried away with how big the game is and what it means, but obviously we are lucky to be part of such an occasion.
It’s Edwin Van der Sar’s last game on Saturday. Did you want him to stay on for another season?
When we won the league last Saturday all the boys were singing ‘one more year’, but it was more just a bit of fun really. Edwin’s big enough to make his own decision. He feels it’s the right time and who’s to argue? Hopefully we can send him off with another good memory.
All training last week was geared towards Barcelona and all our thoughts have been the same, so there’s an extra focus and concentration and excitement.
Michael Carrick.
Obviously being excited ahead of the game, do you approach training differently?
No. In some ways it’s like any other week. There’s a bit more tactical work this week than we’re used to but in terms of thinking about not getting injured, you just put that to the back of your mind and focus on the job and just get ready for the weekend.
Do you think that places are still up for grabs?
Yes, every day here in training is a test. You’ve got to be on your game, because the standard is so high and the squad is so strong and the amount of options the manager has is there for all to see. It’s the manager’s decision and I wouldn’t like to have to make it.
Has this been more of a squad effort than in 2009?
I think that’s just the way it is now with the amount of games we play and the squad we have now, the players are chomping at the bit to get into it. The lads all buy into the decisions of the manager. If he leaves you out for a game or two, then you come back because you can see the bigger picture, which is winning leagues and competing for Champions Leagues.
As a midfielder yourself, what do you think of Xavi and Iniesta when you watch them?
They’re top players. I watch and enjoy them just as much as anybody else when I’m watching them on the TV, but when you’re up against them you have a job. You respect them for who they are and how good they are, but at the same time they’re the opposition.
Having a manager that has seen it and done it in football, how much confidence does that give you?
It’s massive for somebody who has achieved so much in the game to believe in you as a player. It gives you huge belief and confidence and it’s good to have him behind you, giving advice and helping you along the way.
Do you see a difference in him on weeks like this?
I think there is a difference in everyone. The focus changed for us since Blackburn, and the focus has solely been on this game. All training last week was geared towards Barcelona and all our thoughts have been the same, so there’s an extra focus and concentration and excitement.
Many fans will be expecting an open game of football but as a player, what do you think the game will be like?
It’s so hard to tell. When you look at the last final, we were on top for the first ten minutes looking to score and then they scored and you just can’t predict how it’s going to be. The last final really wasn’t as bad as people made out. There were times in the game where we were right in it. It wasn’t a total disaster, but there are things that we want to change and things that we will change.
Santos claim slim advantage over Cerro
Santos claim slim advantage over Cerro
Edu Dracena helped Brazilian giants Santos clinch a 1-0 home win over Paraguay's Cerro Porteno in the first leg of the Copa Libertadores semi-finals on Wednesday.
The win, at the Estadio Pacaembu, means Muricy Ramalho's Santos gained little advantage ahead of the second leg next Wednesday at the Estadio Defensores del Chaco in Asuncion. In the 44th minute, Edu Dracena headed in a Neymar cross to gave Santos the lead, the ball hitting the crossbar before going in.
Only seconds later, Cerro Porteno could have levelled the scores but Santos keeper Rafael saved a Pedro Benitez header from a free-kick by Julio Dos Santos. In the final seconds of the game, Neymar crossed for Alan Patrick but his left-foot shot was saved with his feet by Cerro keeper Diego Barreto.
Dracena said: "It could have been 2-0, but another important point is that we did not concede goals tonight. We play better as visitors. I hope we can play better football in Paraguay in order to win. Tonight, we fought a lot, we showed an aggressive side," he told Fox Sports.
The other semi-final tie will see Uruguayan giants Penarol take on Argentinian league leaders Velez Sarsfield in the first leg in Montevideo on Thursday night.
Edu Dracena helped Brazilian giants Santos clinch a 1-0 home win over Paraguay's Cerro Porteno in the first leg of the Copa Libertadores semi-finals on Wednesday.
The win, at the Estadio Pacaembu, means Muricy Ramalho's Santos gained little advantage ahead of the second leg next Wednesday at the Estadio Defensores del Chaco in Asuncion. In the 44th minute, Edu Dracena headed in a Neymar cross to gave Santos the lead, the ball hitting the crossbar before going in.
Only seconds later, Cerro Porteno could have levelled the scores but Santos keeper Rafael saved a Pedro Benitez header from a free-kick by Julio Dos Santos. In the final seconds of the game, Neymar crossed for Alan Patrick but his left-foot shot was saved with his feet by Cerro keeper Diego Barreto.
Dracena said: "It could have been 2-0, but another important point is that we did not concede goals tonight. We play better as visitors. I hope we can play better football in Paraguay in order to win. Tonight, we fought a lot, we showed an aggressive side," he told Fox Sports.
The other semi-final tie will see Uruguayan giants Penarol take on Argentinian league leaders Velez Sarsfield in the first leg in Montevideo on Thursday night.
Dede: We will make Nigeria proud
Dede: We will make Nigeria proud
At 31, goalkeeper Precious Dede will lead out Nigeria’s Super Falcons at the 2011 FIFA Women’s World Cup™ in Germany next month. It will be her third FIFA Women's World Cup appearance, having been a part of the teams at the 2003 and 2007 tournaments as well. She has equally starred at two Olympics, in 2004 and 2008, and when you add her short stint in Norway playing professional football, you have a strong vein of experience that the can hold the spine of Nigeria steady from the back in the biggest matches.
In November, the agile Delta Queens of Asaba shot-stopper proudly lifted high the glittering African Women’s Championship trophy in Johannesburg amidst bedlam caused by her jubilant team-mates. For the Falcons it was all the more pleasing as it was achieved at the expense of fellow Germany 2011 finalists Equatorial Guinea, who had shocked Nigeria to win their first-ever continental title two years previously, ending the west African's previous dominance.
The current Falcons are a fine blend of veteran campaigners like Dede, Stella Mbachu and Perpetua Nkwocha as well as youngsters like Ebere Orji, Desire Oparanozie, Esther Sunday and Francisca Udegha. And in South Africa, the group was a different class: firing in 19 goals while Lagos-born Dede only picked the ball from her net four times in five matches. “Dede was simply wonderful in goal at the AWC. She has really justified the confidence put in her as the country’s number one goalkeeper,” remarked former international Ann Chiejine, who played at three FIFA Women's World Cups.
Focus on Germany
Despite having the strongest history with women’s football in Africa, Nigeria have failed to make a major mark on the world stage. At USA 2003, they lost all three group matches and did not score a goal while letting in 11. Four years later, they again finished at the bottom of their first round group, and they claimed a solitary point from a draw with Sweden. Captain Dede expects a far better showing by the Falcons in Germany and would not even rule out making history by becoming the first African side to land the biggest prize in women’s football.
This is the time to go out there and show our stuff. Don’t rule us out of reaching the final of the World Cup, or better still, coming back home with the trophy.
Nigeria goalkeeper Precious Dede about Germany 2011
“We have all been expecting another chance to have a go at achieving something better at the world stage,” said the upbeat goalkeeper, whose older brother encouraged her even when her parents frowned at her football career. “This is the time to go out there and show our stuff. Don’t rule us out of reaching the final of the World Cup, or better still, coming back home with the trophy.”
While understanding the high level of play set to be on offer in Germany, Dede is sure there will be no slip-ups for the green-clad side as they put the finishing touches on their preparations at a training camp in Austria. “Being the skipper of the team, I promise we will be in Germany to make Nigeria proud,” she said. “I am counting on our coaches - led by Eucharia Uche - to bring out the best in us, and by the time we have rounded up our preparations in Austria, I am very sure that we will be ready to take on the world.”
Confidence from the back
Foreign-based pros like Faith Ikidi, Helen Ukaonu, Uchechi Sunday, Emueje Ogbiagbevha, Rita Chikwelu, Sarah Michael and Perpetua Nkwocha are expected to soon join up with the mainly home-based squad in the four-week long camp in Saalfelden, Austria. “We have quality players whose contributions will be vital at the World Cup,” said Dede. “We will not disappoint, we will make Nigerians proud again.”
I love acting and you never can tell if I will take to it after I retire from football.
Dede on her possible second career
Nigeria take on France in their opening match in Sinsheim on 26 June, with Group A encounters against hosts and defending champions Germany in Frankfurt, and Canada in Dresden, to follow. For Falcons coach, Eucharia Uche, the defence marshalled by Dede provided her with the biggest cheer in South Africa. “My defence gave me the most joy,” she revealed. “They were marvellous the entire tournament. They conceded few goals and did not commit many blunders.”
A FIFA Women's World Cup winners’ medal would be most fitting parting gift for Dede, who holds a diploma in theatre arts and says she could well cash in on her good looks and popularity to become a movie star when she is through with the game. “I would most probably have been a successful actress by now," she said with a smile. "I love acting and you never can tell if I will take to it after I retire from football." You can be sure that if she is half as good an actress as she is a goalkeeper, Dede will be on the ‘A’ list of Nigeria’s booming movie industry, Nollywood.
At 31, goalkeeper Precious Dede will lead out Nigeria’s Super Falcons at the 2011 FIFA Women’s World Cup™ in Germany next month. It will be her third FIFA Women's World Cup appearance, having been a part of the teams at the 2003 and 2007 tournaments as well. She has equally starred at two Olympics, in 2004 and 2008, and when you add her short stint in Norway playing professional football, you have a strong vein of experience that the can hold the spine of Nigeria steady from the back in the biggest matches.
In November, the agile Delta Queens of Asaba shot-stopper proudly lifted high the glittering African Women’s Championship trophy in Johannesburg amidst bedlam caused by her jubilant team-mates. For the Falcons it was all the more pleasing as it was achieved at the expense of fellow Germany 2011 finalists Equatorial Guinea, who had shocked Nigeria to win their first-ever continental title two years previously, ending the west African's previous dominance.
The current Falcons are a fine blend of veteran campaigners like Dede, Stella Mbachu and Perpetua Nkwocha as well as youngsters like Ebere Orji, Desire Oparanozie, Esther Sunday and Francisca Udegha. And in South Africa, the group was a different class: firing in 19 goals while Lagos-born Dede only picked the ball from her net four times in five matches. “Dede was simply wonderful in goal at the AWC. She has really justified the confidence put in her as the country’s number one goalkeeper,” remarked former international Ann Chiejine, who played at three FIFA Women's World Cups.
Focus on Germany
Despite having the strongest history with women’s football in Africa, Nigeria have failed to make a major mark on the world stage. At USA 2003, they lost all three group matches and did not score a goal while letting in 11. Four years later, they again finished at the bottom of their first round group, and they claimed a solitary point from a draw with Sweden. Captain Dede expects a far better showing by the Falcons in Germany and would not even rule out making history by becoming the first African side to land the biggest prize in women’s football.
This is the time to go out there and show our stuff. Don’t rule us out of reaching the final of the World Cup, or better still, coming back home with the trophy.
Nigeria goalkeeper Precious Dede about Germany 2011
“We have all been expecting another chance to have a go at achieving something better at the world stage,” said the upbeat goalkeeper, whose older brother encouraged her even when her parents frowned at her football career. “This is the time to go out there and show our stuff. Don’t rule us out of reaching the final of the World Cup, or better still, coming back home with the trophy.”
While understanding the high level of play set to be on offer in Germany, Dede is sure there will be no slip-ups for the green-clad side as they put the finishing touches on their preparations at a training camp in Austria. “Being the skipper of the team, I promise we will be in Germany to make Nigeria proud,” she said. “I am counting on our coaches - led by Eucharia Uche - to bring out the best in us, and by the time we have rounded up our preparations in Austria, I am very sure that we will be ready to take on the world.”
Confidence from the back
Foreign-based pros like Faith Ikidi, Helen Ukaonu, Uchechi Sunday, Emueje Ogbiagbevha, Rita Chikwelu, Sarah Michael and Perpetua Nkwocha are expected to soon join up with the mainly home-based squad in the four-week long camp in Saalfelden, Austria. “We have quality players whose contributions will be vital at the World Cup,” said Dede. “We will not disappoint, we will make Nigerians proud again.”
I love acting and you never can tell if I will take to it after I retire from football.
Dede on her possible second career
Nigeria take on France in their opening match in Sinsheim on 26 June, with Group A encounters against hosts and defending champions Germany in Frankfurt, and Canada in Dresden, to follow. For Falcons coach, Eucharia Uche, the defence marshalled by Dede provided her with the biggest cheer in South Africa. “My defence gave me the most joy,” she revealed. “They were marvellous the entire tournament. They conceded few goals and did not commit many blunders.”
A FIFA Women's World Cup winners’ medal would be most fitting parting gift for Dede, who holds a diploma in theatre arts and says she could well cash in on her good looks and popularity to become a movie star when she is through with the game. “I would most probably have been a successful actress by now," she said with a smile. "I love acting and you never can tell if I will take to it after I retire from football." You can be sure that if she is half as good an actress as she is a goalkeeper, Dede will be on the ‘A’ list of Nigeria’s booming movie industry, Nollywood.
De Gea: Nothing has been signed
De Gea: Nothing has been signed
Atletico Madrid goalkeeper David De Gea has denied reports he has agreed to join Manchester United and insists he will not consider his future until after this summer's UEFA European U-21 Championships.
United boss Sir Alex Ferguson spoke in glowing terms about the 20-year-old earlier this week and speculation in both England and Spain has suggested De Gea would complete a switch to Old Trafford in the next couple of weeks. However, the Spaniard has refuted claims a deal has already been struck and wants, instead, to focus on the upcoming U-21 tournament in Denmark which gets under way on 11 June.
De Gea's lawyer released a statement to Spanish news agency EFE which read: "News has appeared in various media outlets today that Atletico Madrid's David De Gea has signed for Manchester United. I hereby notify you that it is not true a deal has been signed."
De Gea will not consider the contract extension offer from Atletico or any other offer until 30 June when he has finished his commitments with the U-21 national team.
Statement from David De Gea's lawyer
The statement added: "De Gea will not consider the contract extension offer from Atletico or any other offer until 30 June when he has finished his commitments with the U-21 national team."
Ferguson has earmarked De Gea as the long-term successor to Edwin van der Sar, who will retire after Saturday's UEFA Champions League final against Barcelona. Speaking after Gary Neville's testimonial on Tuesday, Ferguson told the club's official website: "We've been working on it [De Gea transfer] for quite a while. We identified him quite a while back as one we should go for.
"He's a young goalkeeper, very quick, good composure, presence and an outstanding replacement for Van der Sar. We were looking for the same type of qualities as Edwin, because the one great quality Edwin always had was his composure and organisational ability. With David De Gea, he is very similar that way.''
Atletico, who finished this season in seventh spot in the Primera Division, remain keen to tie De Gea down to a new contract with his current one running until 2013.
Atletico Madrid goalkeeper David De Gea has denied reports he has agreed to join Manchester United and insists he will not consider his future until after this summer's UEFA European U-21 Championships.
United boss Sir Alex Ferguson spoke in glowing terms about the 20-year-old earlier this week and speculation in both England and Spain has suggested De Gea would complete a switch to Old Trafford in the next couple of weeks. However, the Spaniard has refuted claims a deal has already been struck and wants, instead, to focus on the upcoming U-21 tournament in Denmark which gets under way on 11 June.
De Gea's lawyer released a statement to Spanish news agency EFE which read: "News has appeared in various media outlets today that Atletico Madrid's David De Gea has signed for Manchester United. I hereby notify you that it is not true a deal has been signed."
De Gea will not consider the contract extension offer from Atletico or any other offer until 30 June when he has finished his commitments with the U-21 national team.
Statement from David De Gea's lawyer
The statement added: "De Gea will not consider the contract extension offer from Atletico or any other offer until 30 June when he has finished his commitments with the U-21 national team."
Ferguson has earmarked De Gea as the long-term successor to Edwin van der Sar, who will retire after Saturday's UEFA Champions League final against Barcelona. Speaking after Gary Neville's testimonial on Tuesday, Ferguson told the club's official website: "We've been working on it [De Gea transfer] for quite a while. We identified him quite a while back as one we should go for.
"He's a young goalkeeper, very quick, good composure, presence and an outstanding replacement for Van der Sar. We were looking for the same type of qualities as Edwin, because the one great quality Edwin always had was his composure and organisational ability. With David De Gea, he is very similar that way.''
Atletico, who finished this season in seventh spot in the Primera Division, remain keen to tie De Gea down to a new contract with his current one running until 2013.
Iran says farewell to ‘The Legend’
Iran says farewell to ‘The Legend’
(FIFA.com) Thursday 26 May 2011
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This week has been one of mourning for the Iranian football community. This week has been one in which it lost a man whose hypersonic reflexes inspired Team Melli to two AFC Asian Cup crowns during their halcyon days of the 1970s, was coveted by Manchester United, went down as Asia’s second-best goalkeeper of the 20th century and, above all, remained a righteous and humble gentlemen throughout his 61 years.
And though the candles went out on Nasser Hejazi’s life on Monday, following an 18-month battle against lung cancer, his memory will burn on infinitely. An absolute testament to this was the former Nader, Taj, Shahbaz, Esteghlal and Mohammedan No1’s moving funeral yesterday in his native Tehran.
In a ground-breaking step, women were permitted to enter the Azadi Stadium for the first time at an official function. Three-thousand of them – including Hejazi’s daughter Atoosa, the Iran women’s national team captain, and her team-mates – were present along with the iconic figure’s family, friends and former team-mates. Fittingly, Hejazi’s coffin was laid in Azadi’s six-yard box, the scene of so many of his breathtaking saves for Iran and Esteghlal, before the man known as ‘The Legend’ was buried at the Behesht-Zahra cemetery.
Among the 20,000 lucky enough to be present – hundreds of thousands had wanted to attend - was Ali Daei, the world’s 109-goal all-time record scorer who was discovered by Hejazi as a youngster. “I have not come to bid farewell to our legend,” said the emotional 42-year-old. “Hejazi will remain alive in our hearts and minds forever. I learned many invaluable life lessons from Hejazi that I will cherish for the rest of my life.”
Born in the Iranian capital on 19 December 1949, less than six months before Iran played their first FIFA international, Hejazi quickly set his sights on using his hands to become a professional sportsman. Curiously, though, he yearned to throw a basketball rather than catch a football for a living, and represented his country at youth level at the five-a-side court game.
I have not come to bid farewell to our legend. Hejazi will remain alive in our hearts and minds forever. I learned many invaluable life lessons from Hejazi that I will cherish for the rest of my life.
Ali Daei
However, an injury to his high school football team’s goalkeeper proved the catalyst in the teenager’s conversion to grass. The side’s coach viewed Hejazi, who was tall and athletic, as the ideal deputy and, although the student politely declined his elder’s invitation initially, he was eventually persuaded to stand between the sticks for a one-off match. In it he kept a clean sheet. In it he fell in love with football. Basketball became a hobby rather than a career option.
Hejazi made his debut for minnows Nader, before joining Taj (the club became known as Esteghlal in 1979) in 1967. Two years later, the club installed Zdravko Rajkov, who also coached Iran, into its dugout. The Yugoslav swiftly promoted Hejazi into the national squad and handed him an international debut as a 19-year-old that September, when Team Melli beat Pakistan 4-2. Back at Taj, Rajkov and Hejazi combined to help the side become Asian club champions in 1970, with the latter keeping three clean sheets in four games en route to gold.
But if that was Hejazi’s zenith at club level, it was not his career meridian. Indeed, he helped Iran win the AFC Asian Cup in 1972 and ’76, producing a memorable performance in a 2-1 defeat of Korea Republic in the former’s final and a shut-out of Kuwait in the latter’s. Hejazi also represented his country at the Men’s Olympic Football Tournaments of 1972 and 1976 and the 1978 FIFA World Cup Argentina™, where his highlights included a superb one-handed stop to deny Scotland’s Joe Jordan in a 1-1 draw and a fine save from the vaunted left foot of Peruvian Teofilo Cubillas, despite the Western Asians’ 4-1 loss. Those moments prompted Manchester United to hand him a trial and though the English giants wanted to sign Hejazi, political problems in his homeland prevented him from making the move to Old Trafford.
Hejazi played his 62nd and last game for Iran in a semi-final loss to Kuwait at the AFC Asian Cup in 1980. Six years later and 19 after he first signed for Esteghlal – he had a three-year spell at Shahbaz in between – the shot-stopper left his homeland for one last season in Bangladesh, where he played 31 times for Mohammedan, going on to coach them in his second year in Dhaka. Upon his return to Iran, he assumed the reins at nine clubs - including Esteghlal, whose 1997/98 Iranian top-flight title he masterminded - between 1988 and 2007.
And though that was his last occupation in football, the sport stayed with him until the very end. Indeed, when he was taken into coma on Friday, from which he did not awake, he was watching his beloved Esteghlal play PAS Hamedan on television. Fittingly, the Tehran giants won – and kept a clean sheet.
In a letter to Iranian Football Federation (FFIRI) President Ali Kafashian, FIFA President Joseph S. Blatter wrote: “It is with a sad heart that I write to you, having learned of the tragic passing of Nasser Hejazi – a legendary former football player. On behalf of FIFA and the worldwide family of football, I wish to extend our condolences to you, the Iranian football community and, most importantly, Nasser Hejazi’s friends and loved ones. Please let them know that today the football community stands by their side.”
(FIFA.com) Thursday 26 May 2011
Email my friend
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This week has been one of mourning for the Iranian football community. This week has been one in which it lost a man whose hypersonic reflexes inspired Team Melli to two AFC Asian Cup crowns during their halcyon days of the 1970s, was coveted by Manchester United, went down as Asia’s second-best goalkeeper of the 20th century and, above all, remained a righteous and humble gentlemen throughout his 61 years.
And though the candles went out on Nasser Hejazi’s life on Monday, following an 18-month battle against lung cancer, his memory will burn on infinitely. An absolute testament to this was the former Nader, Taj, Shahbaz, Esteghlal and Mohammedan No1’s moving funeral yesterday in his native Tehran.
In a ground-breaking step, women were permitted to enter the Azadi Stadium for the first time at an official function. Three-thousand of them – including Hejazi’s daughter Atoosa, the Iran women’s national team captain, and her team-mates – were present along with the iconic figure’s family, friends and former team-mates. Fittingly, Hejazi’s coffin was laid in Azadi’s six-yard box, the scene of so many of his breathtaking saves for Iran and Esteghlal, before the man known as ‘The Legend’ was buried at the Behesht-Zahra cemetery.
Among the 20,000 lucky enough to be present – hundreds of thousands had wanted to attend - was Ali Daei, the world’s 109-goal all-time record scorer who was discovered by Hejazi as a youngster. “I have not come to bid farewell to our legend,” said the emotional 42-year-old. “Hejazi will remain alive in our hearts and minds forever. I learned many invaluable life lessons from Hejazi that I will cherish for the rest of my life.”
Born in the Iranian capital on 19 December 1949, less than six months before Iran played their first FIFA international, Hejazi quickly set his sights on using his hands to become a professional sportsman. Curiously, though, he yearned to throw a basketball rather than catch a football for a living, and represented his country at youth level at the five-a-side court game.
I have not come to bid farewell to our legend. Hejazi will remain alive in our hearts and minds forever. I learned many invaluable life lessons from Hejazi that I will cherish for the rest of my life.
Ali Daei
However, an injury to his high school football team’s goalkeeper proved the catalyst in the teenager’s conversion to grass. The side’s coach viewed Hejazi, who was tall and athletic, as the ideal deputy and, although the student politely declined his elder’s invitation initially, he was eventually persuaded to stand between the sticks for a one-off match. In it he kept a clean sheet. In it he fell in love with football. Basketball became a hobby rather than a career option.
Hejazi made his debut for minnows Nader, before joining Taj (the club became known as Esteghlal in 1979) in 1967. Two years later, the club installed Zdravko Rajkov, who also coached Iran, into its dugout. The Yugoslav swiftly promoted Hejazi into the national squad and handed him an international debut as a 19-year-old that September, when Team Melli beat Pakistan 4-2. Back at Taj, Rajkov and Hejazi combined to help the side become Asian club champions in 1970, with the latter keeping three clean sheets in four games en route to gold.
But if that was Hejazi’s zenith at club level, it was not his career meridian. Indeed, he helped Iran win the AFC Asian Cup in 1972 and ’76, producing a memorable performance in a 2-1 defeat of Korea Republic in the former’s final and a shut-out of Kuwait in the latter’s. Hejazi also represented his country at the Men’s Olympic Football Tournaments of 1972 and 1976 and the 1978 FIFA World Cup Argentina™, where his highlights included a superb one-handed stop to deny Scotland’s Joe Jordan in a 1-1 draw and a fine save from the vaunted left foot of Peruvian Teofilo Cubillas, despite the Western Asians’ 4-1 loss. Those moments prompted Manchester United to hand him a trial and though the English giants wanted to sign Hejazi, political problems in his homeland prevented him from making the move to Old Trafford.
Hejazi played his 62nd and last game for Iran in a semi-final loss to Kuwait at the AFC Asian Cup in 1980. Six years later and 19 after he first signed for Esteghlal – he had a three-year spell at Shahbaz in between – the shot-stopper left his homeland for one last season in Bangladesh, where he played 31 times for Mohammedan, going on to coach them in his second year in Dhaka. Upon his return to Iran, he assumed the reins at nine clubs - including Esteghlal, whose 1997/98 Iranian top-flight title he masterminded - between 1988 and 2007.
And though that was his last occupation in football, the sport stayed with him until the very end. Indeed, when he was taken into coma on Friday, from which he did not awake, he was watching his beloved Esteghlal play PAS Hamedan on television. Fittingly, the Tehran giants won – and kept a clean sheet.
In a letter to Iranian Football Federation (FFIRI) President Ali Kafashian, FIFA President Joseph S. Blatter wrote: “It is with a sad heart that I write to you, having learned of the tragic passing of Nasser Hejazi – a legendary former football player. On behalf of FIFA and the worldwide family of football, I wish to extend our condolences to you, the Iranian football community and, most importantly, Nasser Hejazi’s friends and loved ones. Please let them know that today the football community stands by their side.”
Friday, May 20, 2011
Denilson: I want to leave Arsenal
Denilson: I want to leave Arsenal
Midfielder Denilson has said that he wants to leave Arsenal, saying: "I've been here for five years and won nothing."
The 23-year-old Brazilian joined Arsenal in the summer of 2006 from Sao Paulo but in that time the Gunners have fallen short of silverware. Their last trophy was the 2005 FA Cup. He has now told The Sun that he intends to quit the club, saying he made his decision eight months ago.
A footballer's career is over very quickly so it is time to move on... I need a fresh challenge and although I know I'm taking a big gamble I am ready to take that risk.
Denilson
"I've simply been to see (manager) Arsene Wenger and told him how I felt - and he has agreed to let me go," he said. "This has been the worst season of my life and I am so upset, so frustrated. I am a winner and I came here to win trophies but I've been here for five years and won nothing.
"A footballer's career is over very quickly so it is time to move on. I know some people think I'm crazy. I need a fresh challenge and although I know I'm taking a big gamble I am ready to take that risk.
"I can't see myself returning in a Chelsea shirt, or Liverpool or Manchester City - and definitely not Tottenham. I think my future will be in Spain or Italy."
Midfielder Denilson has said that he wants to leave Arsenal, saying: "I've been here for five years and won nothing."
The 23-year-old Brazilian joined Arsenal in the summer of 2006 from Sao Paulo but in that time the Gunners have fallen short of silverware. Their last trophy was the 2005 FA Cup. He has now told The Sun that he intends to quit the club, saying he made his decision eight months ago.
A footballer's career is over very quickly so it is time to move on... I need a fresh challenge and although I know I'm taking a big gamble I am ready to take that risk.
Denilson
"I've simply been to see (manager) Arsene Wenger and told him how I felt - and he has agreed to let me go," he said. "This has been the worst season of my life and I am so upset, so frustrated. I am a winner and I came here to win trophies but I've been here for five years and won nothing.
"A footballer's career is over very quickly so it is time to move on. I know some people think I'm crazy. I need a fresh challenge and although I know I'm taking a big gamble I am ready to take that risk.
"I can't see myself returning in a Chelsea shirt, or Liverpool or Manchester City - and definitely not Tottenham. I think my future will be in Spain or Italy."
Flourishing foursome exciting in France
Flourishing foursome exciting in France
France’s Ligue 1 has always suffered from seeing its best players pack their bags for top European clubs, though this does mean that doors are often opened to young players a little earlier than usual. Proving that their worth is not measured in years, many have wasted no time in transforming themselves into veritable leaders on the pitch.
Indeed, while the team of the year is yet to be announced in France, there are a multitude of precocious talents who have a chance of being included, such as defender Mamadou Sakho, defensive midfielder Yann M’vila, playmaker Marvin Martin and versatile attacker Andre Ayew. Each one is a rising star in his early 20s, known respectively for his solidity, reading of the game, passing skills and versatility.
As a cornerstone of the Paris Saint-Germain backline, being recognised as one of the division's most competent defenders is turning into a habit for Mamadou Sakho. Although just 21, his rangy frame has been a regular feature of the Parisian side’s matches for over four seasons now.
“I was born in Paris; it’s a dream come true to be able to play at the Parc des Princes,” said the tireless centre-back, who made his debut the day after his 17th birthday in 2007, under the watchful eye of then PSG coach Paul Le Guen. “I used to go to games when I was little - I’d be high up in the stands and the players would all seem so tiny. That’s why I always give 100 per cent when I enter the field."
My favourite player is Xavi. I’ve always admired the way he constantly moves around, and the fact that he hardly ever loses the ball. He’s an exceptional player.
Marvin Martin of Sochaux on his role model
Nowadays, he enjoys a much closer view of proceedings on the pitch, and would like to see a little more of Polish and Ukrainian stadiums in particular. His ambition of appearing at UEFA EURO 2012 – set to take place in the aforementioned countries next summer – is not as far-fetched as it might once have seemed, given that France coach Laurent Blanc has included him in numerous squads over the past few months. These frequent call-ups for EURO qualifying matches have clearly had a beneficial effect on the tough-tackling Sakho.
“Perhaps the national team has helped me, psychologically speaking,” he said by way of explaining his superb 2010/11. “It’s my fourth season in Ligue 1. When you get a good run of matches under your belt, it’s easier to express yourself and perform consistently out on the pitch.”
Rennes’ Yann M’Vila, on the other hand, had just one Ligue 1 season behind him before this year’s campaign began. But his early appearances in the top tier were enough to convince Breton supporters that in M’Vila, the club possessed a real rough diamond of a player.
Rennes coach Frederic Antonetti proceeded to go about polishing the diamond, and even went as far as to predict that his protégé would win a place in Les Bleus’ squad for the 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa™. In the end, while he was included in the initial 30-man list, he did not make the final cut. But he would not have to wait long for international recognition.
In August 2010, Laurent Blanc handed the holding midfielder his first cap, pinpointing him as an essential component of his newly rebuilt national side. M’Vila repaid the faith shown in him by both his coaches by first enabling Rennes to compete for a European spot, and then by helping the French national side to restore its image within the game.
During a 2-0 win over Luxembourg in March, he successfully completed 124 out of 134 passes - a record for a French international. This efficiency has been equally evident on the domestic scene, where his ball-winning and passing have impressed, with Rennes’ match against Valenciennes – in which 100 of his passes reached their intended targets – being a notable example.
Passes, especially those of the piercing variety, are also a speciality of Sochaux’s Marvin Martin. Practically unknown at the beginning of the season, the 23-year-old has established himself as one of the top providers of telling balls in the French game. With just two games of the current season left, he has already set up goals for his team-mates on 16 occasions, a vital number for a team chasing a place in the UEFA Europa League despite being many fans’ pre-season favourites for relegation.
On course to better the record of 18 assists set by Jerome Rothen with Monaco during season 2002/03, Martin has admitted taking inspiration from another well-known passing maestro. “My favourite player is Xavi,” revealed the diminutive midfield man. “I’ve always admired the way he constantly moves around, and the fact that he hardly ever loses the ball. I love watching him play. He’s an exceptional player.”
I used to go to games when I was little - I’d be high up in the stands and the players would all seem so tiny. That’s why I always give 100 per cent when I enter the field.
Mamadou Sakho of Paris Saint-Germain
The Sochaux playmaker still has some way to go in his career before proper comparisons with his idol can be made, but Martin is already assured of succeeding Marseille’s Lucho Gonzalez as the league’s top passer.
In fact, Gonzalez, L’OM’s star midfielder, has seen his thunder stolen somewhat at the Velodrome this year, and by a 21-year-old youth academy graduate, no less. Up to the beginning of the season, Ghana international Andre Ayew was better known for being the son of legendary African footballer Abedi Pele than for his own displays on the pitch.
Despite enjoying an impressive FIFA World Cup last year, Ayew had previously recorded a rather quiet domestic campaign out on loan to Arles-Avignon in the second division, therefore making it difficult for observers to ascertain whether his international form was nothing but a flash in the pan. A few months later, they had their answer, as by then Ayew had established himself as Marseille’s most important player. Winner of the French League Cup and still in with an outside chance of a championship medal, the left-footed winger has already begun to attract the attention of some of Europe’s biggest clubs, but he has no intention of rushing things.
“This is the first year where I’ve been able to play in a lot of matches, and I really feel like I’ve improved my game,” commented Ayew, whose younger brother Jordan is also on Marseille’s books. “It was important for me to come to a club like this one, where there were great players that I could learn from. I had to make this breakthrough so that I could keep progressing."
Due to their tender ages, the word ‘progress’ has been used a lot recently in reference to the burgeoning football careers of Sakho, M’Vila, Martin and Ayew. And if this exciting new generation continue to develop at the same rate over the coming seasons, the word ‘success’ is sure to be heard just as often.
France’s Ligue 1 has always suffered from seeing its best players pack their bags for top European clubs, though this does mean that doors are often opened to young players a little earlier than usual. Proving that their worth is not measured in years, many have wasted no time in transforming themselves into veritable leaders on the pitch.
Indeed, while the team of the year is yet to be announced in France, there are a multitude of precocious talents who have a chance of being included, such as defender Mamadou Sakho, defensive midfielder Yann M’vila, playmaker Marvin Martin and versatile attacker Andre Ayew. Each one is a rising star in his early 20s, known respectively for his solidity, reading of the game, passing skills and versatility.
As a cornerstone of the Paris Saint-Germain backline, being recognised as one of the division's most competent defenders is turning into a habit for Mamadou Sakho. Although just 21, his rangy frame has been a regular feature of the Parisian side’s matches for over four seasons now.
“I was born in Paris; it’s a dream come true to be able to play at the Parc des Princes,” said the tireless centre-back, who made his debut the day after his 17th birthday in 2007, under the watchful eye of then PSG coach Paul Le Guen. “I used to go to games when I was little - I’d be high up in the stands and the players would all seem so tiny. That’s why I always give 100 per cent when I enter the field."
My favourite player is Xavi. I’ve always admired the way he constantly moves around, and the fact that he hardly ever loses the ball. He’s an exceptional player.
Marvin Martin of Sochaux on his role model
Nowadays, he enjoys a much closer view of proceedings on the pitch, and would like to see a little more of Polish and Ukrainian stadiums in particular. His ambition of appearing at UEFA EURO 2012 – set to take place in the aforementioned countries next summer – is not as far-fetched as it might once have seemed, given that France coach Laurent Blanc has included him in numerous squads over the past few months. These frequent call-ups for EURO qualifying matches have clearly had a beneficial effect on the tough-tackling Sakho.
“Perhaps the national team has helped me, psychologically speaking,” he said by way of explaining his superb 2010/11. “It’s my fourth season in Ligue 1. When you get a good run of matches under your belt, it’s easier to express yourself and perform consistently out on the pitch.”
Rennes’ Yann M’Vila, on the other hand, had just one Ligue 1 season behind him before this year’s campaign began. But his early appearances in the top tier were enough to convince Breton supporters that in M’Vila, the club possessed a real rough diamond of a player.
Rennes coach Frederic Antonetti proceeded to go about polishing the diamond, and even went as far as to predict that his protégé would win a place in Les Bleus’ squad for the 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa™. In the end, while he was included in the initial 30-man list, he did not make the final cut. But he would not have to wait long for international recognition.
In August 2010, Laurent Blanc handed the holding midfielder his first cap, pinpointing him as an essential component of his newly rebuilt national side. M’Vila repaid the faith shown in him by both his coaches by first enabling Rennes to compete for a European spot, and then by helping the French national side to restore its image within the game.
During a 2-0 win over Luxembourg in March, he successfully completed 124 out of 134 passes - a record for a French international. This efficiency has been equally evident on the domestic scene, where his ball-winning and passing have impressed, with Rennes’ match against Valenciennes – in which 100 of his passes reached their intended targets – being a notable example.
Passes, especially those of the piercing variety, are also a speciality of Sochaux’s Marvin Martin. Practically unknown at the beginning of the season, the 23-year-old has established himself as one of the top providers of telling balls in the French game. With just two games of the current season left, he has already set up goals for his team-mates on 16 occasions, a vital number for a team chasing a place in the UEFA Europa League despite being many fans’ pre-season favourites for relegation.
On course to better the record of 18 assists set by Jerome Rothen with Monaco during season 2002/03, Martin has admitted taking inspiration from another well-known passing maestro. “My favourite player is Xavi,” revealed the diminutive midfield man. “I’ve always admired the way he constantly moves around, and the fact that he hardly ever loses the ball. I love watching him play. He’s an exceptional player.”
I used to go to games when I was little - I’d be high up in the stands and the players would all seem so tiny. That’s why I always give 100 per cent when I enter the field.
Mamadou Sakho of Paris Saint-Germain
The Sochaux playmaker still has some way to go in his career before proper comparisons with his idol can be made, but Martin is already assured of succeeding Marseille’s Lucho Gonzalez as the league’s top passer.
In fact, Gonzalez, L’OM’s star midfielder, has seen his thunder stolen somewhat at the Velodrome this year, and by a 21-year-old youth academy graduate, no less. Up to the beginning of the season, Ghana international Andre Ayew was better known for being the son of legendary African footballer Abedi Pele than for his own displays on the pitch.
Despite enjoying an impressive FIFA World Cup last year, Ayew had previously recorded a rather quiet domestic campaign out on loan to Arles-Avignon in the second division, therefore making it difficult for observers to ascertain whether his international form was nothing but a flash in the pan. A few months later, they had their answer, as by then Ayew had established himself as Marseille’s most important player. Winner of the French League Cup and still in with an outside chance of a championship medal, the left-footed winger has already begun to attract the attention of some of Europe’s biggest clubs, but he has no intention of rushing things.
“This is the first year where I’ve been able to play in a lot of matches, and I really feel like I’ve improved my game,” commented Ayew, whose younger brother Jordan is also on Marseille’s books. “It was important for me to come to a club like this one, where there were great players that I could learn from. I had to make this breakthrough so that I could keep progressing."
Due to their tender ages, the word ‘progress’ has been used a lot recently in reference to the burgeoning football careers of Sakho, M’Vila, Martin and Ayew. And if this exciting new generation continue to develop at the same rate over the coming seasons, the word ‘success’ is sure to be heard just as often.
Just the start for confident Kitchee
Just the start for confident Kitchee
There is no better way for a football club to celebrate the anniversary of its foundation than by winning a title. Just ask Hong Kong side Kitchee, who have commemorated their 80 years of existence by winning the national 1st Division Football League, their first championship triumph since 1964. In doing so they beat off the challenge of their biggest rivals, South China, who have 40 league championships to their name and former England international Nicky Butt and Serbian striker Mateja Kezman in their ranks.
Coached by Spaniard Josep Gombau, Kitchee won their two games against South China and lost only two of their 18 matches, drawing two others and winning the rest. In doing so they showed power up front and defensive solidity, scoring 52 goals in the campaign and conceding only 16, the best figures in the league on both counts.
“It was an unforgettable celebration,” Gombau told FIFA.com. “On a personal level I couldn’t be more satisfied and we’re all thrilled with our achievement. We’re very excited now at the prospect of taking part in the next AFC Cup. It’s my second season in charge here and I’ve noticed a big change. The league’s getting stronger and stronger, teams are more organised and the competition’s getting tougher by the day.”
A project for the future
Developing Hong Kong football. That is the goal that brought Gombau to this part of the world. “I was a director at Barcelona’s academy and during that time Kitchee organised a friendly with the first team,” he said. “That led to a partnership agreement and the opening of a football academy for children, and that’s how I started. They then asked me to take charge of the first team.”
As well as the academy, where children receive all kit and equipment free of charge, the agreement also led to the creation of an educational project run in conjunction with the university. “The man responsible for it all is club president Ken Ng,” explained Gombau, who has gone from running the academy to winning the title in four years. “Mr Ng has a global vision and he doesn’t see the project as something exclusively for Kitchee. What he wants to do is promote football throughout the country.”
That objective seems to be coming closer to fruition. Attendances are up, interest in the national league is growing and the arrival of star players, albeit approaching the end of their careers, is helping to raise its profile. Kitchee are a case in point, with no less than six Spaniards in their squad, all of them doing their bit to nurture the local game.
“In sporting terms it’s been very easy to adapt to life here,” continued the coach. “Asian players are very disciplined and committed. They make an effort and work hard, and they also pay attention and learn fast. Their only weak point is their physique. They lack height and power, though they make up for that with skill and speed.” And when it comes to a style of play, there is only one gospel that the former Barcelona academy man preaches: possession football.
International exposure
Kitchee followed up their long-awaited league win by coming out on top in the HK International Soccer Sevens, a seven-a-side tournament also featuring the likes of Boca Juniors, Ajax, Liverpool, Glasgow Rangers, Aston Villa and Glasgow Celtic, all of them fielding talented young sides.
The club’s anniversary festivities are set to continue with a friendly on 27 May against Spain’s Villarreal, a game that will also raise funds for the victims of the earthquake and tsunami that struck Japan on 11 March. Flying in to bolster the Kitchee line-up for the game will be none other than Japanese star Hidetoshi Nakata.
Finally, on 27-30 July the Hong Kong champions will host English Premier League teams Chelsea, Aston Villa and Blackburn Rovers in the Asia Trophy, a tournament Gombau is very much looking forward to: “It’ll be wonderful for us to take on these teams. Obviously there’s a big difference in terms of class but we’ll give it our all. We’re very excited for our fans.”
The Spanish tactician has already started planning for next season, and with a number of extra games in store following their qualification for the AFC Champions League, he is looking to strengthen the squad: “It’s very exciting to be competing at international level. It’s a fascinating challenge for me as a coach and a great opportunity too. We’re delighted to be taking it on and we really want to enjoy it.”
There is no better way for a football club to celebrate the anniversary of its foundation than by winning a title. Just ask Hong Kong side Kitchee, who have commemorated their 80 years of existence by winning the national 1st Division Football League, their first championship triumph since 1964. In doing so they beat off the challenge of their biggest rivals, South China, who have 40 league championships to their name and former England international Nicky Butt and Serbian striker Mateja Kezman in their ranks.
Coached by Spaniard Josep Gombau, Kitchee won their two games against South China and lost only two of their 18 matches, drawing two others and winning the rest. In doing so they showed power up front and defensive solidity, scoring 52 goals in the campaign and conceding only 16, the best figures in the league on both counts.
“It was an unforgettable celebration,” Gombau told FIFA.com. “On a personal level I couldn’t be more satisfied and we’re all thrilled with our achievement. We’re very excited now at the prospect of taking part in the next AFC Cup. It’s my second season in charge here and I’ve noticed a big change. The league’s getting stronger and stronger, teams are more organised and the competition’s getting tougher by the day.”
A project for the future
Developing Hong Kong football. That is the goal that brought Gombau to this part of the world. “I was a director at Barcelona’s academy and during that time Kitchee organised a friendly with the first team,” he said. “That led to a partnership agreement and the opening of a football academy for children, and that’s how I started. They then asked me to take charge of the first team.”
As well as the academy, where children receive all kit and equipment free of charge, the agreement also led to the creation of an educational project run in conjunction with the university. “The man responsible for it all is club president Ken Ng,” explained Gombau, who has gone from running the academy to winning the title in four years. “Mr Ng has a global vision and he doesn’t see the project as something exclusively for Kitchee. What he wants to do is promote football throughout the country.”
That objective seems to be coming closer to fruition. Attendances are up, interest in the national league is growing and the arrival of star players, albeit approaching the end of their careers, is helping to raise its profile. Kitchee are a case in point, with no less than six Spaniards in their squad, all of them doing their bit to nurture the local game.
“In sporting terms it’s been very easy to adapt to life here,” continued the coach. “Asian players are very disciplined and committed. They make an effort and work hard, and they also pay attention and learn fast. Their only weak point is their physique. They lack height and power, though they make up for that with skill and speed.” And when it comes to a style of play, there is only one gospel that the former Barcelona academy man preaches: possession football.
International exposure
Kitchee followed up their long-awaited league win by coming out on top in the HK International Soccer Sevens, a seven-a-side tournament also featuring the likes of Boca Juniors, Ajax, Liverpool, Glasgow Rangers, Aston Villa and Glasgow Celtic, all of them fielding talented young sides.
The club’s anniversary festivities are set to continue with a friendly on 27 May against Spain’s Villarreal, a game that will also raise funds for the victims of the earthquake and tsunami that struck Japan on 11 March. Flying in to bolster the Kitchee line-up for the game will be none other than Japanese star Hidetoshi Nakata.
Finally, on 27-30 July the Hong Kong champions will host English Premier League teams Chelsea, Aston Villa and Blackburn Rovers in the Asia Trophy, a tournament Gombau is very much looking forward to: “It’ll be wonderful for us to take on these teams. Obviously there’s a big difference in terms of class but we’ll give it our all. We’re very excited for our fans.”
The Spanish tactician has already started planning for next season, and with a number of extra games in store following their qualification for the AFC Champions League, he is looking to strengthen the squad: “It’s very exciting to be competing at international level. It’s a fascinating challenge for me as a coach and a great opportunity too. We’re delighted to be taking it on and we really want to enjoy it.”
Just the start for confident Kitchee
Just the start for confident Kitchee
There is no better way for a football club to celebrate the anniversary of its foundation than by winning a title. Just ask Hong Kong side Kitchee, who have commemorated their 80 years of existence by winning the national 1st Division Football League, their first championship triumph since 1964. In doing so they beat off the challenge of their biggest rivals, South China, who have 40 league championships to their name and former England international Nicky Butt and Serbian striker Mateja Kezman in their ranks.
Coached by Spaniard Josep Gombau, Kitchee won their two games against South China and lost only two of their 18 matches, drawing two others and winning the rest. In doing so they showed power up front and defensive solidity, scoring 52 goals in the campaign and conceding only 16, the best figures in the league on both counts.
“It was an unforgettable celebration,” Gombau told FIFA.com. “On a personal level I couldn’t be more satisfied and we’re all thrilled with our achievement. We’re very excited now at the prospect of taking part in the next AFC Cup. It’s my second season in charge here and I’ve noticed a big change. The league’s getting stronger and stronger, teams are more organised and the competition’s getting tougher by the day.”
A project for the future
Developing Hong Kong football. That is the goal that brought Gombau to this part of the world. “I was a director at Barcelona’s academy and during that time Kitchee organised a friendly with the first team,” he said. “That led to a partnership agreement and the opening of a football academy for children, and that’s how I started. They then asked me to take charge of the first team.”
As well as the academy, where children receive all kit and equipment free of charge, the agreement also led to the creation of an educational project run in conjunction with the university. “The man responsible for it all is club president Ken Ng,” explained Gombau, who has gone from running the academy to winning the title in four years. “Mr Ng has a global vision and he doesn’t see the project as something exclusively for Kitchee. What he wants to do is promote football throughout the country.”
That objective seems to be coming closer to fruition. Attendances are up, interest in the national league is growing and the arrival of star players, albeit approaching the end of their careers, is helping to raise its profile. Kitchee are a case in point, with no less than six Spaniards in their squad, all of them doing their bit to nurture the local game.
“In sporting terms it’s been very easy to adapt to life here,” continued the coach. “Asian players are very disciplined and committed. They make an effort and work hard, and they also pay attention and learn fast. Their only weak point is their physique. They lack height and power, though they make up for that with skill and speed.” And when it comes to a style of play, there is only one gospel that the former Barcelona academy man preaches: possession football.
International exposure
Kitchee followed up their long-awaited league win by coming out on top in the HK International Soccer Sevens, a seven-a-side tournament also featuring the likes of Boca Juniors, Ajax, Liverpool, Glasgow Rangers, Aston Villa and Glasgow Celtic, all of them fielding talented young sides.
The club’s anniversary festivities are set to continue with a friendly on 27 May against Spain’s Villarreal, a game that will also raise funds for the victims of the earthquake and tsunami that struck Japan on 11 March. Flying in to bolster the Kitchee line-up for the game will be none other than Japanese star Hidetoshi Nakata.
Finally, on 27-30 July the Hong Kong champions will host English Premier League teams Chelsea, Aston Villa and Blackburn Rovers in the Asia Trophy, a tournament Gombau is very much looking forward to: “It’ll be wonderful for us to take on these teams. Obviously there’s a big difference in terms of class but we’ll give it our all. We’re very excited for our fans.”
The Spanish tactician has already started planning for next season, and with a number of extra games in store following their qualification for the AFC Champions League, he is looking to strengthen the squad: “It’s very exciting to be competing at international level. It’s a fascinating challenge for me as a coach and a great opportunity too. We’re delighted to be taking it on and we really want to enjoy it.”
There is no better way for a football club to celebrate the anniversary of its foundation than by winning a title. Just ask Hong Kong side Kitchee, who have commemorated their 80 years of existence by winning the national 1st Division Football League, their first championship triumph since 1964. In doing so they beat off the challenge of their biggest rivals, South China, who have 40 league championships to their name and former England international Nicky Butt and Serbian striker Mateja Kezman in their ranks.
Coached by Spaniard Josep Gombau, Kitchee won their two games against South China and lost only two of their 18 matches, drawing two others and winning the rest. In doing so they showed power up front and defensive solidity, scoring 52 goals in the campaign and conceding only 16, the best figures in the league on both counts.
“It was an unforgettable celebration,” Gombau told FIFA.com. “On a personal level I couldn’t be more satisfied and we’re all thrilled with our achievement. We’re very excited now at the prospect of taking part in the next AFC Cup. It’s my second season in charge here and I’ve noticed a big change. The league’s getting stronger and stronger, teams are more organised and the competition’s getting tougher by the day.”
A project for the future
Developing Hong Kong football. That is the goal that brought Gombau to this part of the world. “I was a director at Barcelona’s academy and during that time Kitchee organised a friendly with the first team,” he said. “That led to a partnership agreement and the opening of a football academy for children, and that’s how I started. They then asked me to take charge of the first team.”
As well as the academy, where children receive all kit and equipment free of charge, the agreement also led to the creation of an educational project run in conjunction with the university. “The man responsible for it all is club president Ken Ng,” explained Gombau, who has gone from running the academy to winning the title in four years. “Mr Ng has a global vision and he doesn’t see the project as something exclusively for Kitchee. What he wants to do is promote football throughout the country.”
That objective seems to be coming closer to fruition. Attendances are up, interest in the national league is growing and the arrival of star players, albeit approaching the end of their careers, is helping to raise its profile. Kitchee are a case in point, with no less than six Spaniards in their squad, all of them doing their bit to nurture the local game.
“In sporting terms it’s been very easy to adapt to life here,” continued the coach. “Asian players are very disciplined and committed. They make an effort and work hard, and they also pay attention and learn fast. Their only weak point is their physique. They lack height and power, though they make up for that with skill and speed.” And when it comes to a style of play, there is only one gospel that the former Barcelona academy man preaches: possession football.
International exposure
Kitchee followed up their long-awaited league win by coming out on top in the HK International Soccer Sevens, a seven-a-side tournament also featuring the likes of Boca Juniors, Ajax, Liverpool, Glasgow Rangers, Aston Villa and Glasgow Celtic, all of them fielding talented young sides.
The club’s anniversary festivities are set to continue with a friendly on 27 May against Spain’s Villarreal, a game that will also raise funds for the victims of the earthquake and tsunami that struck Japan on 11 March. Flying in to bolster the Kitchee line-up for the game will be none other than Japanese star Hidetoshi Nakata.
Finally, on 27-30 July the Hong Kong champions will host English Premier League teams Chelsea, Aston Villa and Blackburn Rovers in the Asia Trophy, a tournament Gombau is very much looking forward to: “It’ll be wonderful for us to take on these teams. Obviously there’s a big difference in terms of class but we’ll give it our all. We’re very excited for our fans.”
The Spanish tactician has already started planning for next season, and with a number of extra games in store following their qualification for the AFC Champions League, he is looking to strengthen the squad: “It’s very exciting to be competing at international level. It’s a fascinating challenge for me as a coach and a great opportunity too. We’re delighted to be taking it on and we really want to enjoy it.”
Penarol, Cerro edge into last four
Penarol, Cerro edge into last four
A goal by Fabian Estoyanoff six minutes from the end guided Penarol to the semi-finals of the Copa Libertadores after they claimed a 3-2 aggregate win over Universidad Catolica on Thursday.
The Uruguayans were 2-0 down in Chile with the game heading for a penalty shoot-out before the former Valencia forward converted a cross by Luis Aguiar in the 84th minute to send his side into their first semi-final for 23 years where they will face Velez Sarsfield of Argentina.
Fernando Meneses and Roberto Gutierrez had put Catolica ahead but goalkeeper Paulo Garces failed to catch Aguiar's cross and the visitors progressed.
Penarol coach Diego Aguirre said: "We played looking for one goal since the first minute. But we couldn't find it until the end. We created several chances, but we couldn't score and we suffered a lot. Luckily there was justice at the end.
"As a Penarol fan, I'm happy for living this, putting the team in a Copa Libertadores definition again. There are left only the best four teams in the continent and Penarol is one of them. We have to be proud of that."
In Paraguay, Cerro Porteno secured a 1-0 victory on the night, 2-1 on aggregate, over Jaguares of Mexico, Pedro Benitez hitting the winner with 20 minutes left. Cerro Porteno will now play Brazil's Santos in the other semi-final.
A goal by Fabian Estoyanoff six minutes from the end guided Penarol to the semi-finals of the Copa Libertadores after they claimed a 3-2 aggregate win over Universidad Catolica on Thursday.
The Uruguayans were 2-0 down in Chile with the game heading for a penalty shoot-out before the former Valencia forward converted a cross by Luis Aguiar in the 84th minute to send his side into their first semi-final for 23 years where they will face Velez Sarsfield of Argentina.
Fernando Meneses and Roberto Gutierrez had put Catolica ahead but goalkeeper Paulo Garces failed to catch Aguiar's cross and the visitors progressed.
Penarol coach Diego Aguirre said: "We played looking for one goal since the first minute. But we couldn't find it until the end. We created several chances, but we couldn't score and we suffered a lot. Luckily there was justice at the end.
"As a Penarol fan, I'm happy for living this, putting the team in a Copa Libertadores definition again. There are left only the best four teams in the continent and Penarol is one of them. We have to be proud of that."
In Paraguay, Cerro Porteno secured a 1-0 victory on the night, 2-1 on aggregate, over Jaguares of Mexico, Pedro Benitez hitting the winner with 20 minutes left. Cerro Porteno will now play Brazil's Santos in the other semi-final.
Asia's elite marksmen set their sights
Asia's elite marksmen set their sights
The push to be crowned AFC Champions League royalty will continue when the Round of 16 takes place next Tuesday and Wednesday. Meanwhile an equally intriguing and keenly contested competition is being fought as the battle to be the continent’s top goalscorer intensifies.
In the inaugural tournament eight years ago, Chinese scoring legend Hao Haidong captured the individual prize with nine goals. This was a record which would be equaled in the 2004, 2006 and 2008 editions, before it was finally broken in 2009 by Gamba Osaka's Brazilian marksman Leandro, who set a new benchmark with ten goals. Suwon Bluewings' Jose Mota fell narrowly short last year with nine goals.
This year's contest appears set to once again provide a captivating sub-plot to the competition proper. Suwon’s Ha Tae-Goon leads the charge with six goals after the group phase, however a host of contenders are on his heels. Join FIFA.com as we take a look at the hopefuls seeking the title of Asia’s most prolific marksman.
On-song K-League quartet
Current top-scorer Ha is undoubtedly among the players to watch given his goal return in the Asian arena this year, including a hat-trick against Shanghai Shenhua. The 23-year-old impressed in his debut season four years ago when he won the K-League Rookie of the Year award. But he made little progress over the following years, adding just a couple of goals to his tally. Remarkably he has yet to open his domestic account this term.
Despite trailing Ha by two goals, FC Seoul's Dejan Damjanovic boasts a more consistent scoring rate, hitting 73 goals in 139 games. The Montenegrin striker was instrumental in helping his side progress as group winners, netting four times, including a brace in the 3-0 home victory over Al Ain.
Jeju United’s experienced striker Lee Dong-Gook has proven a reliable goal-getter for both club and country. Despite flourishing this season, with three goals in the Champions League and eight domestically, injury means he is likely to miss the one-off Round of 16 clash against Tianjin Teda, in what has been a recurring theme in the 32-year-old’s career.
In his absence Jeonbuk can turn to supersub Krunoslav Lovrek, who also has hit three continental goals during the group campaign. The Croatian proved his predatory talents in his debut season with Jeonbuk last year, scoring a hat-trick in their 4-1 defeat at Persipura Jayapura, as well as 13 goals in 30 K-League appearances.
Saudi League duo in flying form
A seasoned campaigner on the continental front, Al Hilal’s Yasser Al Qahtani is invariably among the favourites for the top-scorer awards. Having ranked third in last year’s scoring chart with five goals, the Saudi has maintained his prolific form this season with another four strikes. Inspired by their recent title-defense in the Saudi league, where he bagged eleven goals as Al Hilal retained the championship, Al Qahtani will be aiming to secure the club’s first Champions League crown.
Kuwaiti striker Bader Al Mutwa has announced his arrival at this level with impressive displays for Saudi Arabia’s Al Nassr, where he is on loan from hometown club Al Qadsia. The 26-year-old has claimed four of Al Nassr’s ten strikes, including bagging the decisive goal against Esteghlal to secure progression on goal difference at the Iranians’ expense.
Also impressing with their scoring flair are the Cerezo Osaka duo of Takashi Inui and Rodrigo Pimpao, who bagged four goals each as their side took the section’s second qualifying spot in their debut Asian appearance. Their scoring form will be key if Cerezo are to get the better of former champions and city rivals Gamba in a potentially epic tie on Tuesday.
Elsewhere, Senegalese forward Ibrahima Toure has been running riot this season as Sepahan retained the Iranian league title, and also won their Champions League group ahead of the formidable Al Hilal. With 18 goals on the domestic front and four in Asian competition, Toure has the credentials to claim the continent’s elite goalscoring award, provided Sepahan can maintain their domestic form on a grander stage.
The push to be crowned AFC Champions League royalty will continue when the Round of 16 takes place next Tuesday and Wednesday. Meanwhile an equally intriguing and keenly contested competition is being fought as the battle to be the continent’s top goalscorer intensifies.
In the inaugural tournament eight years ago, Chinese scoring legend Hao Haidong captured the individual prize with nine goals. This was a record which would be equaled in the 2004, 2006 and 2008 editions, before it was finally broken in 2009 by Gamba Osaka's Brazilian marksman Leandro, who set a new benchmark with ten goals. Suwon Bluewings' Jose Mota fell narrowly short last year with nine goals.
This year's contest appears set to once again provide a captivating sub-plot to the competition proper. Suwon’s Ha Tae-Goon leads the charge with six goals after the group phase, however a host of contenders are on his heels. Join FIFA.com as we take a look at the hopefuls seeking the title of Asia’s most prolific marksman.
On-song K-League quartet
Current top-scorer Ha is undoubtedly among the players to watch given his goal return in the Asian arena this year, including a hat-trick against Shanghai Shenhua. The 23-year-old impressed in his debut season four years ago when he won the K-League Rookie of the Year award. But he made little progress over the following years, adding just a couple of goals to his tally. Remarkably he has yet to open his domestic account this term.
Despite trailing Ha by two goals, FC Seoul's Dejan Damjanovic boasts a more consistent scoring rate, hitting 73 goals in 139 games. The Montenegrin striker was instrumental in helping his side progress as group winners, netting four times, including a brace in the 3-0 home victory over Al Ain.
Jeju United’s experienced striker Lee Dong-Gook has proven a reliable goal-getter for both club and country. Despite flourishing this season, with three goals in the Champions League and eight domestically, injury means he is likely to miss the one-off Round of 16 clash against Tianjin Teda, in what has been a recurring theme in the 32-year-old’s career.
In his absence Jeonbuk can turn to supersub Krunoslav Lovrek, who also has hit three continental goals during the group campaign. The Croatian proved his predatory talents in his debut season with Jeonbuk last year, scoring a hat-trick in their 4-1 defeat at Persipura Jayapura, as well as 13 goals in 30 K-League appearances.
Saudi League duo in flying form
A seasoned campaigner on the continental front, Al Hilal’s Yasser Al Qahtani is invariably among the favourites for the top-scorer awards. Having ranked third in last year’s scoring chart with five goals, the Saudi has maintained his prolific form this season with another four strikes. Inspired by their recent title-defense in the Saudi league, where he bagged eleven goals as Al Hilal retained the championship, Al Qahtani will be aiming to secure the club’s first Champions League crown.
Kuwaiti striker Bader Al Mutwa has announced his arrival at this level with impressive displays for Saudi Arabia’s Al Nassr, where he is on loan from hometown club Al Qadsia. The 26-year-old has claimed four of Al Nassr’s ten strikes, including bagging the decisive goal against Esteghlal to secure progression on goal difference at the Iranians’ expense.
Also impressing with their scoring flair are the Cerezo Osaka duo of Takashi Inui and Rodrigo Pimpao, who bagged four goals each as their side took the section’s second qualifying spot in their debut Asian appearance. Their scoring form will be key if Cerezo are to get the better of former champions and city rivals Gamba in a potentially epic tie on Tuesday.
Elsewhere, Senegalese forward Ibrahima Toure has been running riot this season as Sepahan retained the Iranian league title, and also won their Champions League group ahead of the formidable Al Hilal. With 18 goals on the domestic front and four in Asian competition, Toure has the credentials to claim the continent’s elite goalscoring award, provided Sepahan can maintain their domestic form on a grander stage.
City: No substance to Ronaldo rumours
City: No substance to Ronaldo rumours
Manchester City have rejected speculation that they are about to launch a big-money move for Cristiano Ronaldo.
The former world player of the year quit Manchester United for Real Madrid in an £80million deal two years ago. However, despite Ronaldo's 51 goals in all competitions this season, Real missed out on both the La Liga title and Champions League glory.
With relations between Ronaldo and coach Jose Mourinho reported to be strained, it has been suggested City could swoop with a bid far in excess of what Real paid for the player.
That move contradicts the claims chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak made in his end of season address on the City website, which was released yesterday, in which he stated firmly that there would not be a mass influx of players this summer and that the Blues were committed to working within UEFA's new financial fair play rules.
And a City spokesman this morning confirmed Ronaldo was not a target. "There is no substance in these reports whatsoever," said the spokesman.
Before manager Roberto Mancini can think about who he wants to bring in, he must resolve issues around players no longer thought to be required.
Wayne Bridge and Craig Bellamy are both likely to return after West Ham United and Cardiff were condemned to the Championship next season, whilst it is also expected Emmanuel Adebayor will not have his stay at Real extended.
Manchester City have rejected speculation that they are about to launch a big-money move for Cristiano Ronaldo.
The former world player of the year quit Manchester United for Real Madrid in an £80million deal two years ago. However, despite Ronaldo's 51 goals in all competitions this season, Real missed out on both the La Liga title and Champions League glory.
With relations between Ronaldo and coach Jose Mourinho reported to be strained, it has been suggested City could swoop with a bid far in excess of what Real paid for the player.
That move contradicts the claims chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak made in his end of season address on the City website, which was released yesterday, in which he stated firmly that there would not be a mass influx of players this summer and that the Blues were committed to working within UEFA's new financial fair play rules.
And a City spokesman this morning confirmed Ronaldo was not a target. "There is no substance in these reports whatsoever," said the spokesman.
Before manager Roberto Mancini can think about who he wants to bring in, he must resolve issues around players no longer thought to be required.
Wayne Bridge and Craig Bellamy are both likely to return after West Ham United and Cardiff were condemned to the Championship next season, whilst it is also expected Emmanuel Adebayor will not have his stay at Real extended.
Baptista: Comeback has been incredible
Baptista: Comeback has been incredible
Whatever your political views, it is hard not to appreciate the wisdom in the words of Vladimir Lenin, who once said that “sometimes you need to take one step back before taking two steps forward”. On the surface at least, that would appear to have been the thinking behind Julio Baptista’s decision to leave Serie A heavyweights Roma in the January transfer window and sign for relegation-threatened La Liga side Malaga.
Yet according to La Bestia (The Beast) himself, his switch to the Andalusian coast was a most definitely a forward step. “I wasn’t even getting a game at Roma, so how could I be going backwards?” he told FIFA.com. “This comeback has been incredible. This was just what I wanted: to have the chance to play and be a key man again.”
And key is just one way of describing Baptista’s role at the heart of Malaga’s La Liga revival, with the former Brazil international scoring no fewer than nine goals in 11 league games. This purple patch has included seven strikes during a five-match winning streak for Los Malaguistas, which has taken the club into ninth spot with one game remaining, though Baptista will miss that meeting with champions Barcelona due to a muscle strain.
This comeback has been incredible. This was just what I wanted: to have the chance to play and be a key man again.
Julio Baptista on his resurgence at Malaga
As you would expect, such a remarkable turnaround in such a short space of time for both player and team has raised a few eyebrows. However, the versatile 29-year-old reveals that Malaga’s potential as a club was clear, even when relegation looked on the cards.
“Of course there was a level of uncertainty when I arrived, due to the fact the team was near the bottom of the table," he said. “But I quickly saw that there was a clearly set-out project for the medium term, which aims to narrow the gap between Malaga and Spain’s top clubs. The next step would be to push on still further and try and secure a Champions League spot. And they wanted me to be an integral part of this project.”
That may be the case, but seeing Baptista in a Malaga shirt does catch the eye for one important reason: since leaving Sevilla in 2005, the attacking midfielder has only turned out for such global giants as Real Madrid, Arsenal and Roma. But without playing poorly, nor did the player do enough to cement a regular starting berth at any of those illustrious teams.
“Unfortunately, I suffered from a lack of continuity," explained Batista. "During my spell at Real Madrid the club went through a lot of instability: I worked under four different coaches. That makes it difficult for anyone to get a clear idea of how you play. And then in comes a coach who doesn’t see you as part of his plans, as was the case with [Fabio] Capello.
“So off I went to Arsenal, I settled well there and wanted to stay but Real Madrid were asking for €15m for me. Arsene Wenger was very honest with me, he said that he was interested in keeping me but that at that price it was impossible. So I went back to Madrid, won the title and then came an offer from Roma. [Luciano] Spalletti believed in me and I was playing all the time until, yet again, there was a change in coach (Claudio Ranieri took over in September 2009). Then I picked up an injury and my situation was up in the air again.”
All the while Baptista was experiencing these highs and lows at a series of big clubs, his former side Sevilla, where he first burst on to the European scene, went from strength to strength. In fact, in the two seasons following his departure, Los Rojiblancos won consecutive UEFA Cup titles (2005/06 and 2006/07) and the Copa del Rey (2006/07).
Though understandably averse to the word 'regrets', the well-travelled Brazilian is honest and intelligent enough to question the timing of his exit from the Estadio Ramon Sanchez-Pizjuan. “Nowadays, looking back on my career, I can see that I would have been better prepared if I’d waited another year or two before leaving Sevilla,” he admitted. “But, on the other hand, when you get a great offer from a club like Real Madrid, it’s impossible not to be tempted and find yourself wanting to accept.”
I would have been better prepared if I’d waited another year or two before leaving Sevilla. But when you get a great offer from a club like Real Madrid, it’s impossible not to be tempted.
Julio Baptista
Even during these years of instability, however, Baptista was always able to do enough to stay in the Brazil national-team frame. But despite being called up on more than 30 occasions, including for the 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa™, the player has not always enjoyed the support of the Seleção faithful.
Baptista himself admits that he is more highly rated in Europe than back in Brazil, and not just because he left his hometown club Sao Paulo for Sevilla at just 21 in 2003. In fact, the main reason is that the pre-La Liga version of La Bestia was, rather than a goal-hungry attacking midfielder or second striker, a hard-working holding midfielder by trade.
“It was only after coming to Europe that I showed my true worth and settled into an attacking-midfield role,” said Baptista. “That meant that, even until recently, when I was in the Seleção or people back home saw me scoring goals, they’d say, ‘eh? But Julio’s a defensive midfielder, isn’t he?’ But I’ve been playing as an attacking midfielder for years and that’s how I made my name in European football.”
And after all the setbacks since leaving Sevilla and the distorted image that many in Brazil still have of him, does Baptista feel hard done by? “Not in the slightest," he responded. "Luck and factors outside your control play a part in everybody’s career. But if you work hard enough things end up going right for you one way or another.
“That’s how it’s been for me so far, and that’s why I always tried to look forward rather than back. I never stopped believing that I still had plenty to offer.”
Whatever your political views, it is hard not to appreciate the wisdom in the words of Vladimir Lenin, who once said that “sometimes you need to take one step back before taking two steps forward”. On the surface at least, that would appear to have been the thinking behind Julio Baptista’s decision to leave Serie A heavyweights Roma in the January transfer window and sign for relegation-threatened La Liga side Malaga.
Yet according to La Bestia (The Beast) himself, his switch to the Andalusian coast was a most definitely a forward step. “I wasn’t even getting a game at Roma, so how could I be going backwards?” he told FIFA.com. “This comeback has been incredible. This was just what I wanted: to have the chance to play and be a key man again.”
And key is just one way of describing Baptista’s role at the heart of Malaga’s La Liga revival, with the former Brazil international scoring no fewer than nine goals in 11 league games. This purple patch has included seven strikes during a five-match winning streak for Los Malaguistas, which has taken the club into ninth spot with one game remaining, though Baptista will miss that meeting with champions Barcelona due to a muscle strain.
This comeback has been incredible. This was just what I wanted: to have the chance to play and be a key man again.
Julio Baptista on his resurgence at Malaga
As you would expect, such a remarkable turnaround in such a short space of time for both player and team has raised a few eyebrows. However, the versatile 29-year-old reveals that Malaga’s potential as a club was clear, even when relegation looked on the cards.
“Of course there was a level of uncertainty when I arrived, due to the fact the team was near the bottom of the table," he said. “But I quickly saw that there was a clearly set-out project for the medium term, which aims to narrow the gap between Malaga and Spain’s top clubs. The next step would be to push on still further and try and secure a Champions League spot. And they wanted me to be an integral part of this project.”
That may be the case, but seeing Baptista in a Malaga shirt does catch the eye for one important reason: since leaving Sevilla in 2005, the attacking midfielder has only turned out for such global giants as Real Madrid, Arsenal and Roma. But without playing poorly, nor did the player do enough to cement a regular starting berth at any of those illustrious teams.
“Unfortunately, I suffered from a lack of continuity," explained Batista. "During my spell at Real Madrid the club went through a lot of instability: I worked under four different coaches. That makes it difficult for anyone to get a clear idea of how you play. And then in comes a coach who doesn’t see you as part of his plans, as was the case with [Fabio] Capello.
“So off I went to Arsenal, I settled well there and wanted to stay but Real Madrid were asking for €15m for me. Arsene Wenger was very honest with me, he said that he was interested in keeping me but that at that price it was impossible. So I went back to Madrid, won the title and then came an offer from Roma. [Luciano] Spalletti believed in me and I was playing all the time until, yet again, there was a change in coach (Claudio Ranieri took over in September 2009). Then I picked up an injury and my situation was up in the air again.”
All the while Baptista was experiencing these highs and lows at a series of big clubs, his former side Sevilla, where he first burst on to the European scene, went from strength to strength. In fact, in the two seasons following his departure, Los Rojiblancos won consecutive UEFA Cup titles (2005/06 and 2006/07) and the Copa del Rey (2006/07).
Though understandably averse to the word 'regrets', the well-travelled Brazilian is honest and intelligent enough to question the timing of his exit from the Estadio Ramon Sanchez-Pizjuan. “Nowadays, looking back on my career, I can see that I would have been better prepared if I’d waited another year or two before leaving Sevilla,” he admitted. “But, on the other hand, when you get a great offer from a club like Real Madrid, it’s impossible not to be tempted and find yourself wanting to accept.”
I would have been better prepared if I’d waited another year or two before leaving Sevilla. But when you get a great offer from a club like Real Madrid, it’s impossible not to be tempted.
Julio Baptista
Even during these years of instability, however, Baptista was always able to do enough to stay in the Brazil national-team frame. But despite being called up on more than 30 occasions, including for the 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa™, the player has not always enjoyed the support of the Seleção faithful.
Baptista himself admits that he is more highly rated in Europe than back in Brazil, and not just because he left his hometown club Sao Paulo for Sevilla at just 21 in 2003. In fact, the main reason is that the pre-La Liga version of La Bestia was, rather than a goal-hungry attacking midfielder or second striker, a hard-working holding midfielder by trade.
“It was only after coming to Europe that I showed my true worth and settled into an attacking-midfield role,” said Baptista. “That meant that, even until recently, when I was in the Seleção or people back home saw me scoring goals, they’d say, ‘eh? But Julio’s a defensive midfielder, isn’t he?’ But I’ve been playing as an attacking midfielder for years and that’s how I made my name in European football.”
And after all the setbacks since leaving Sevilla and the distorted image that many in Brazil still have of him, does Baptista feel hard done by? “Not in the slightest," he responded. "Luck and factors outside your control play a part in everybody’s career. But if you work hard enough things end up going right for you one way or another.
“That’s how it’s been for me so far, and that’s why I always tried to look forward rather than back. I never stopped believing that I still had plenty to offer.”
Tuesday, May 17, 2011
Saudi quartet eye continental glory
Saudi quartet eye continental glory
(FIFA.com) Tuesday 17 May 2011
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Saudi club football is on the rise once more after all four of the country’s representatives made it into the last 16 of the 2011 AFC Champions League. The quartet of Al Hilal, Al Ittihad, Al Shabab and Al Nasr will fly the flag for the kingdom as the continent’s premier club competition enters the knockout phase.
These same four teams also qualified for the this phase in 2009, when Jeddah outfit Al Ittihad went all the way to the final, only to lose 2-1 to Korea Republic’s Pohang Steelers. FIFA.com takes a closer look at their successful group stage campaigns and assesses their chances of going further in this famously tough competition.
The return of Al Hilal
Saudi league title-holders Al Hilal are looking to return to the summit of Asian football over a decade after winning the Asian Club Championship and Asian Super Cup in 2000, followed by the Asian Cup Winners Cup in 2002. The signs are good, too, as this is the third consecutive edition in which they have made the Round of 16, including a run to the semi-final last time out.
That said, the 13-time Saudi League champions got off to a poor start this year with a shock 2-1 home defeat to Iranian Group A rivals Sepahan, though they bounced back with successive victories over Qatar’s Al Gharafa and Emirati side Al Jazira (twice). In their next match, Al Hilal travelled to Iran, where they snatched a priceless 1-1 draw against Sepahan, before a 2-0 defeat of Al Gharafa put them level on 13 points with the Iranians and into the next round.
Their next encounter will be an all-Saudi affair, against Group C qualifiers Al Ittihad. The local rivals have met twice this season, with both fixtures ending in scoreless draws, so it is sure to be a tight contest to fill Saudi Arabia’s guaranteed quarter-final slot.
What they said: "Our desire to advance played a big role in the results that we have had. All the teams in Round of 16 are big teams and they have shown good performances in the competition. The game against Al Ittihad will be tough and we will never underestimate them," Al Hilal coach Gabriel Calderon.
Al Ittihad aiming for summit again
Al Ittihad are the only Saudi side to have won the Champions League since the tournament was first staged in 2002/03. The Jeddah club claimed back to back titles in 2004 and 2005 and reached the final in 2009, so hopes are high that they can go one better this year.
One of the first teams to qualify for the Round of 16, Al Ittihad put on a superb display in their first three outings, sweeping aside Iran’s Persepolis, Uzbekistan’s Bunyodkor and UAE side Al Wahda to take a stranglehold on Group C.
They then lost their aura of invincibility with home draws against Al Wahda and Bunyokdor and a 3-2 defeat away to Persepolis, although they still ran out section winners with 11 points.
What they said: "We have qualified early to the round of 16 and playing at home in our first game in the next round will give us a big advantage. We respect all our opponents and we will be playing to win," Al Ittihad captain Mohamed Noor.
Al Shabab aiming high
The Riyadh-based club’s only continental title to date was the Asian Cup Winners Cup back in 2001. In five attempts since then, Al Shabab have never reached the final of the Champions League, their best result coming last year, when they succumbed in the semis to eventual winners Seongnam Ilhwa Chunma of Korea Republic.
The team made heavy weather of navigating Group D this year after opening their account with two draws against Qatari side Al Rayyan and Iran’s Zob Ahan. Al Shabab finally recorded a victory at their third attempt with an emphatic 4-1 away win over UAE’s Emirates at the Emirates Club Stadium in Ras Al Khaimah.
A second triumph followed in the return match with Al Rayyan, leaving their hopes of qualification resting on the outcome of their away tie against Zob Ahan in Isfahan. The White Lions hung on bravely in Iran and claimed the win thanks to a goal against the run of play by striker Faisal Al Sultan.
They will be looking to build on that success in the next round against Qatar’s Al Sadd. The pair crossed swords at the group stage of this competition in 2006, when the Saudis won 3-2 away after earlier playing out a scoreless draw in Riyadh.
What they said: "We gave a big performance in the last match in the group stage. We showed great fighting spirit to make a good comeback in the group and our target has always been to compete for the AFC Champions League and then play in the FIFA Club World Cup," Al Shabab striker Fisal Bin Sultan.
Al Nasr back in the mix
After a long absence from all Asian competitions, Al Nasr secured their place in this year’s Champions League courtesy of a third-place finish in last year’s Saudi league championship. Making the most of the opportunity, the Riyadh side then booked their place in the knockout phase after finishing runners-up in Group B.
A vital point against Pakhtakor in Tashkent followed by a 2-1 home win over Tehran’s Esteghlal got their campaign off to a strong start. And though they garnered just a solitary point from their two meetings with group winners Al Sadd, they made amends with a crushing 4-0 defeat of Pakhtakor, leaving them in need of a point from their final game against Esteghlal to guarantee qualification. A 2-1 defeat to the Iranians left the two sides on eight points, but Al Nasr’s superior goal difference, +3 to +1, earned them a Round-of-16 meeting with Zob Ahan later this month.
What they said: "What is important for me is that we qualified for the round of 16. The spirit of the players played a big role in this achievement," Al Nasr coach Dragan Skocic.
Star turns
The Saudi teams’ success in this year’s competition owes much to the effort of their big-name players. Saudi Arabia national team striker Yasser Al Qahtani scored four goals for Al Hilal, putting him joint third on the list of this year’s top scorers alongside Al Nasr’s Kuwaiti front man Bader Al Mutwa, among others.
For his part, Algerian forward Abdelmalek Ziaya has struck three times for Al Ittihad, who are also heavily indebted to their skipper Mohammed Noor. The latter, with two goals so far in the competition, has been an inspiration in midfield and is due much of the credit for his team’s progress.
Finally, Al Shabab have a star of their own this year in the form of striker Nasser Al Shamrani, the top scorer in the Saudi league this year. With Al Shamrani carrying over his fine into the Champions League, his side have high hopes of progressing further in the showpiece competition.
(FIFA.com) Tuesday 17 May 2011
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Saudi club football is on the rise once more after all four of the country’s representatives made it into the last 16 of the 2011 AFC Champions League. The quartet of Al Hilal, Al Ittihad, Al Shabab and Al Nasr will fly the flag for the kingdom as the continent’s premier club competition enters the knockout phase.
These same four teams also qualified for the this phase in 2009, when Jeddah outfit Al Ittihad went all the way to the final, only to lose 2-1 to Korea Republic’s Pohang Steelers. FIFA.com takes a closer look at their successful group stage campaigns and assesses their chances of going further in this famously tough competition.
The return of Al Hilal
Saudi league title-holders Al Hilal are looking to return to the summit of Asian football over a decade after winning the Asian Club Championship and Asian Super Cup in 2000, followed by the Asian Cup Winners Cup in 2002. The signs are good, too, as this is the third consecutive edition in which they have made the Round of 16, including a run to the semi-final last time out.
That said, the 13-time Saudi League champions got off to a poor start this year with a shock 2-1 home defeat to Iranian Group A rivals Sepahan, though they bounced back with successive victories over Qatar’s Al Gharafa and Emirati side Al Jazira (twice). In their next match, Al Hilal travelled to Iran, where they snatched a priceless 1-1 draw against Sepahan, before a 2-0 defeat of Al Gharafa put them level on 13 points with the Iranians and into the next round.
Their next encounter will be an all-Saudi affair, against Group C qualifiers Al Ittihad. The local rivals have met twice this season, with both fixtures ending in scoreless draws, so it is sure to be a tight contest to fill Saudi Arabia’s guaranteed quarter-final slot.
What they said: "Our desire to advance played a big role in the results that we have had. All the teams in Round of 16 are big teams and they have shown good performances in the competition. The game against Al Ittihad will be tough and we will never underestimate them," Al Hilal coach Gabriel Calderon.
Al Ittihad aiming for summit again
Al Ittihad are the only Saudi side to have won the Champions League since the tournament was first staged in 2002/03. The Jeddah club claimed back to back titles in 2004 and 2005 and reached the final in 2009, so hopes are high that they can go one better this year.
One of the first teams to qualify for the Round of 16, Al Ittihad put on a superb display in their first three outings, sweeping aside Iran’s Persepolis, Uzbekistan’s Bunyodkor and UAE side Al Wahda to take a stranglehold on Group C.
They then lost their aura of invincibility with home draws against Al Wahda and Bunyokdor and a 3-2 defeat away to Persepolis, although they still ran out section winners with 11 points.
What they said: "We have qualified early to the round of 16 and playing at home in our first game in the next round will give us a big advantage. We respect all our opponents and we will be playing to win," Al Ittihad captain Mohamed Noor.
Al Shabab aiming high
The Riyadh-based club’s only continental title to date was the Asian Cup Winners Cup back in 2001. In five attempts since then, Al Shabab have never reached the final of the Champions League, their best result coming last year, when they succumbed in the semis to eventual winners Seongnam Ilhwa Chunma of Korea Republic.
The team made heavy weather of navigating Group D this year after opening their account with two draws against Qatari side Al Rayyan and Iran’s Zob Ahan. Al Shabab finally recorded a victory at their third attempt with an emphatic 4-1 away win over UAE’s Emirates at the Emirates Club Stadium in Ras Al Khaimah.
A second triumph followed in the return match with Al Rayyan, leaving their hopes of qualification resting on the outcome of their away tie against Zob Ahan in Isfahan. The White Lions hung on bravely in Iran and claimed the win thanks to a goal against the run of play by striker Faisal Al Sultan.
They will be looking to build on that success in the next round against Qatar’s Al Sadd. The pair crossed swords at the group stage of this competition in 2006, when the Saudis won 3-2 away after earlier playing out a scoreless draw in Riyadh.
What they said: "We gave a big performance in the last match in the group stage. We showed great fighting spirit to make a good comeback in the group and our target has always been to compete for the AFC Champions League and then play in the FIFA Club World Cup," Al Shabab striker Fisal Bin Sultan.
Al Nasr back in the mix
After a long absence from all Asian competitions, Al Nasr secured their place in this year’s Champions League courtesy of a third-place finish in last year’s Saudi league championship. Making the most of the opportunity, the Riyadh side then booked their place in the knockout phase after finishing runners-up in Group B.
A vital point against Pakhtakor in Tashkent followed by a 2-1 home win over Tehran’s Esteghlal got their campaign off to a strong start. And though they garnered just a solitary point from their two meetings with group winners Al Sadd, they made amends with a crushing 4-0 defeat of Pakhtakor, leaving them in need of a point from their final game against Esteghlal to guarantee qualification. A 2-1 defeat to the Iranians left the two sides on eight points, but Al Nasr’s superior goal difference, +3 to +1, earned them a Round-of-16 meeting with Zob Ahan later this month.
What they said: "What is important for me is that we qualified for the round of 16. The spirit of the players played a big role in this achievement," Al Nasr coach Dragan Skocic.
Star turns
The Saudi teams’ success in this year’s competition owes much to the effort of their big-name players. Saudi Arabia national team striker Yasser Al Qahtani scored four goals for Al Hilal, putting him joint third on the list of this year’s top scorers alongside Al Nasr’s Kuwaiti front man Bader Al Mutwa, among others.
For his part, Algerian forward Abdelmalek Ziaya has struck three times for Al Ittihad, who are also heavily indebted to their skipper Mohammed Noor. The latter, with two goals so far in the competition, has been an inspiration in midfield and is due much of the credit for his team’s progress.
Finally, Al Shabab have a star of their own this year in the form of striker Nasser Al Shamrani, the top scorer in the Saudi league this year. With Al Shamrani carrying over his fine into the Champions League, his side have high hopes of progressing further in the showpiece competition.
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