The Penalty Kick USA

Friendly Outlook

2010-09-19T19:32:00.000-07:00

On October 9^th Bob Bradley and the USMNT will be hosting the Polish National team in Chicago and three days later Bradley’s boys will face Columbia in Chester, PA. On November 17^th the USSF has said that the Yanks will most likely be headed back to South Africa for the fourth time since their exhibition match in November of 2007.

The question will be what team shows up to play? Certainly most of the US based players will be involved with the November 21^st MLS Cup finals in Toronto as well as the Mexican based players who will be occupied with the Mexican playoffs which open on November 20-21. Also with the games being largely low profile, we can expect that the reserves should receive plenty of playing time. Perhaps Charlie Davis will be called up to make up for time lost after his injury the past year.

What is certain is that the Yanks are in desperate need of a quality speedy forward to compliment the physical approach of Jose Altidore. With Robbie Findley tanking in South Africa this summer and Eddie Johnson failing to impress during his recent loan spell it is time for Coach Bradley to expand his shortlist for his first team; because the last thing he needs is to maintain the status quo.

Of course we’ll have more analysis on the squads once they’re announced.

The Hamsters in the Servers Ended Their Strike...

2010-09-14T18:02:00.000-07:00

Hey folks, sorry for the month long absence. We’re back after some technical difficulties with your regularly scheduled PK USA. To get us all back in the mood here are some quick fire items in the news:

In the United States…Bob Bradley is back as the Yanks manager getting a four year contract extension after a promising, yet ultimately disappointing, World Cup. This ends months of speculation that the USSF president would be changing direction by signing Juergen Klinsmann. While no one can question the drive of the US squad this past summer much of the blame for the slow start and poor squad choice lie solely with the American boss.
The question moving forward will be any changes made to the squad in preparation for the Gold Cup and Brazil 2014 as well as any new approach in regards to squad management. Another worry will be worrying results provided by repeating World Cup managers such as Bruce Arena (2004 and 2006) as well as this year’s failures in Raymond Domenech (FRA) and Marcello Lippi (ITA).
In Accra, Ghana… the Ghana’s Football Association (GFA) has confirmed reports that Milovan Rajevac has quit his post as manager for the Black Stars. Rajevac will be “[moving[ on with new challenges,” having signed a four year contract with the Saudi Arabian outfit Al Ahyly Jeddah. The 56 year old Serbian spent two years with the Black Stars including an appearance in the finals of the 2010 African Cup of Nations as well as finishing in the final eight in South Africa.
Rajevac must have been seeing the dollar signs in his eyes because he is surely not seeing the rising star of Ghanaian football. A manager would be foolish to walk away from such a staunch side that will only get better over the next four years as the youth team matures all the further. This is clearly a case of a manager seeing dollar signs in his eyes where stars should be.

In Qatar… the FIFA inspection team arrived to tour the country’s facilities for Qatar’s 2018 and 2022 World Cup bid. Amongst the stops on the tour were stadiums that are specially designed to protect fans, players, and coaches from the summer heat, which averages 106 degrees Fahrenheit, to a manageable 81 degrees. Qatar will be competing with the United States, Australia, South Korea, and Japan for the privilege to host the world’s game but is considered a long shot. Truthfully I’d love to see the game’s brought to the Middle East; but in 2022 after the games return to U.S. soil of course.

Three quick shots from the EPL:
1) Sir Alex Ferguson’s removal of Wayne Rooney from the Manchester United Squad against Everton this past week seemed off simply for the stated reason. Embroiled in a sex-scandal which is neither her nor there, Rooney was taken off the squad to avoid heckling by his former club’s supporters. Naturally Everton’s fans took the opportunity to heckle the Manchester and English star forward regardless, I think that Ferguson would have been better off just stating that Rooney would be given leave to sort out his legal troubles.
2) Liverpool in the bottom half, I can’t say that I’m surprised; but the big four is looking like it may need to find a replacement.
3) As of the 13th, Blackpool sits at 4th in the standings while Everton mires at 19. Perhaps this January they will make for another push for LA Galaxy and US Star Landon Donovan.

We’ll be back on Friday for a more comprehensive article format.

EPL Predictions

2010-08-06T12:27:00.000-07:00

Here are my thoughts as to how the twenty English Premier League clubs will finish this season. Though there’s still another month left in the transfer window, and plenty can change.

#. Team
Last Years:
Additions: Key pieces added to a clubs puzzle
Losses: Significant losses

1. Chelsea
Last year: 1st
Additions: Ramires and Yossi Benayoun
Losses: Michael Ballack and Joe Cole

The 1983 Liverpool squad was the last top club to retain its title following a World Cup; and perhaps Chelsea will be able to achieve that feat in 2010-11. The Blues haven’t had their title winning squad poached in the transfer market and looked poised for a strong campaign.

2. Manchester United
Last year: 2nd
Additions: Javier Hernandez and Chris Smalling
Losses: None

After finishing only a point behind Chelsea last year, Sir Alex Ferguson will be looking to his forwards to carry the team. Wayne Rooney will still be the focal point, but by bringing in Hernandez to share time with Dimitar Berbatov suggests a very potent attack. I just don’t feel like they’ll be able to measure up defensivly. Though their offense will be somewhat of a clinic if they do indeed sign the now imfamous Uruguayan Striker, Luis Suarez.

3. Arsenal
Last year: 3rd
Additions: Marouane Chamakh and Laurent Koscielny
Losses:Eduardo, William Gallas, and Mikael Silvestre

The retention of captain Cesc Fabregas is a tremendous feat for manager Arsene Wenger who is prone to selling players when the right offer is presented. Bringing in Chamakh should provide another layer to their attacking game with Eduardo being shipped out of Emrites Stadium this summer. However the Gunners are still missing a top flight keeper and another solid defender to fill the void left by William Gallas. A weak defense leads me to believe they won’t be able to match up to the offensive play by the top two.

4. Tottenham Hotspur
Last Year: 4th
Additions: None
Losses: None

This isn’t so much a vote of confidence for the Spurs to repeat last year’s performance; but in the inability of Man City to cash-in on their new additions. Tottenham’s season will be heavily dependant on staying injury free.
5. Manchester City
Last Year: 5th
Additions: Jerome Boateng, Aleksandar Kolorov, David Silva, and Yaya Toure
Losses: Martin Petrov

Boateng and Kolorov were brought into patch up a vulnerable defense for City while Yaya Toure at defensive mid should ensure a very solid back third. Silva and potential new signing Bariotelli should provide an extra “oomph” to the Carlos Tevez lead front. This is perhaps City’s best chance to earn a spot in the Champions League; but that’s how it has felt the past few years so I can’t put too much weight in that. Another year of coming close without tasting the competition of the Champions League is in store.

6. Liverpool
Last Year: 7th
Additions: Joe Cole and Milan Jovanovic
Losses: Yossi Benayoun and Albert Riera,

An instant return to the top 4 seems out of reach for Roy Hodgson and company. Despite a disappointing World Cup Fernando Torres will still be in top form for Liverpool as will Steven Gerrard. This’ll be a better year for the Reds but not by much.

7. Aston Villa
Last Year: 6th
Additions: None
Losses: None

No spending for Villa doesn’t seem to be in their advantage, especially with James Milner and Ashley Young both subject to transfer rumors (to Man City and Tottenham respectively). If the Villians can retain them, they’ll be in the mix, if not they’ll slide down to just above the relegation zone.

8. Everton
Last Year: 8th
Additions: Jermaine Beckford and Jan Mucha
Losses: Dan Gosling

Everton is a team that really should make a push for Landon Donovan this month to replace Gosling as a playmaker in the middle. David Moyes’s club needs to perform more consistently this year to have success. The Toffees have a world class keeper in Howard but lack a true game changing threat at forward.

9. Fulham
Last Year: 12th
Addition: Philippe Senderos
Losses: Chris Smalling

Keeping Mark Schwarzer is the first order of business for the Cottagers’ boss. A top half finish is in the cards if that happens in addition to another year of strong performances by Clint Dempsey and Bobby Zamora. Senderos should also help strengthen the back line, providing the wingers and forwards more freedom to push up.

10. Newcastle
Last Year: 1st in Championship
Addition: Sol Campbell, Dan Gosling, and James Perch
Losses: Nicky Butt:

Last year Newcastle proved they were just too strong to be playing in the Championship. Perhaps gorging themselves on the lesser talented has made them soft; but I’m of the belief that Chris Hughton will have his men hungry to prove they can do better. The big question will be how the Magpies’ strikers perform against a higher quality of defenders.

11. Birmingham City
Last Year: 9th
Additions: Ben Foster and Nikola Zigic
Losses: Lee Carsley

With Nikola Zigic and the upcoming signing of Belgian Moussa Dembele Birmingham aren’t in danger of being relegated. However, the Blues will be hard pressed to achieve the success they had last year.

12. Sunderland
Last Year: 13th
Additions: Marcos Angeleri, Titus Bramble, and Cristian Riveros
Losses: Lorik Cana

Sunderland is going to need to find a way to win games while away from the Stadium of Light (finished 2-4-13 in away games last season). Riveros is a good replacement for Cana and Darren Bent will be looking to increase on his 24 goals from last season.

13. Bolton Wanderers
Last Year: 14th
Additions: Martin Petrov
Losses: None

Owen Coyle will be trying to bring a more attractive brand of football to replace the vanilla style of play which has come to define Bolton over the past decade. Martin Petrov is a huge addition for the Wanderers and should be able to help push his new club to a near top half finish.

14. Blackburn Rovers
Last Year: 10th
Additions: None
Losses: Steven Reid

The Rovers exceeded many media predictions last year but won’t be able to make many waves this year unless they land a competent striker. With a possible takeover of ownership in the air the ability to do so may not be possible. What is certain is that Jason Roberts (31 appearances, 5 goals) and Nikola Kalinic (33 appearances, 7 goals) will need to step up their respective games.

15. Stoke City
Last Year: 11th
Additions: None
Losses: None

A reliable middle of the table squad; never good enough to surpass the better teams in the league and yet still above those below them. The managers will need to look to the transfer window and crack open his owner’s wallet if they are to change their fortunes.

16. West Ham
Last Year: 17th
Additions: Avram Grant (manager) and Tel Ben-Haim
Losses: Guillermo Franco

West Ham will avoid relegation this year simply by being a better outfit than those below them. Bringing in Avram Grant to helm the Hammer’s ship is a good start, and bringing in Tel Ben-Haim doesn’t hurt either. West Ham should live up to their low expectation by escaping relegation.

17. Wolverhampton Wanderers
Last Year: 15th
Additions: Steven Fletcher and Stephen Hunt
Losses: Chris Iwelumo

No team scored fewer goals than the Wolves last year, but Kevin Doyle and Steven Fletcher should be able to turn that around. Though they could use a few more men in the back line Mick McCarthy’s side should manage to see another Premier season in 2011.

18. West Bromwich Albion
Last Year: 2nd in Championship
Additions: None
Losses: None

The best of the relegated three is the best I can say for a West Brom side that routinely gets its backside handed to them by bigger clubs. Switching to a more counter attacking side seems to be Roberto di Matteo’s plan; but he lacks the players to pull it off successfully.

19. Wigan Athletic
Last Year: 16th
Additions:
Losses: Titus Bramble and Mario Melchiot

Another squad which couldn’t win on the road and with a defense that conceded 79 goals it was a miracle that the Latics didn’t get sent down to the championship last year. With an unimproved back half Roberto Martinez’s men may just reach the 90s in goals allowed.

20. Blackpool
Last Year: 6th in Championship (promotion playoffs)
Additions: None
Losses: None

Ah the loveable underdog. Blackpool will be routed for by everyone, though when they play against our team we’ll be cheering for blood. Unable to strengthen the Tangerines, Ian Holloway will have to make due with a squad poor on talent whose opening five games include trips to Arsenal and Chelsea.

For the Game. For the World

2010-08-02T18:33:00.000-07:00

North Korea, the world’s most sanctioned and isolated country may just become all the more secluded.
Following the rogue nation’s group stage exit during this summer’s World Cup, there was a genuine fear as to the fate of the Chollima. Following the 2-1 loss against the Brazilians, the North Korean squad looked up to the task of playing in the “Group of Death.” So high was the faith in Jung Tae Se and company, that the following game was permitted broadcast on the state-run channel in the DPR – albeit with heavy doctoring. What happened next was a 7-0 shellacking by the Portuguese; an unfathomable feat fir a side that was said to have been receiving important tactical advice from the Dear Leader himself. After another 3-0 shutout, this time at the hands of the Ivory Coast, fans and pundits alike began to speculate the fate of the 23 man roster. There was a tone of humor in the announcer’s voice, but the undertone was all too serious.
Now, a month gone from the drone of the vuvuzelas, word has leaked out from north of the Demilitarization Zone as to the repercussions of disappointing the Dear Leader.
Radio Free Asia has reported that on 2 July, the North Korean football team – minus Japan based Jung Tae Se and An Yong Hak - was brought before 400 members of the Ministry of Sports and students from Pyongyang University, Kim Il Sung University, and Kimg Hyong Juk School of Education. Also present was Park Myoung Chul, the deputy director of the Workers’ Party Organization and Guidance Department, other athletes and commentators.
In a six hour meeting the player’s were “subjected to a session of harsh ideological criticism.” The team was then criticized by the other athletes and sports commentator Ri Dong Kyu, who was tasked with pointing out the shortcomings of each player; then each player being required to criticize their manager.
Aside from the condemnation, Kim Jung-hun, North Korea’s Manager, is rumored to have been expelled by the Workers’ Party and sent to perform forced labor at a residential building construction site. Perhaps more series is the accusation that Jung-hun has “[betrayed] the Young General Kim Jong-un,” – Kim Jong-il’s third son and heir apparent.
According to the RFA “as the North Korean soccer team qualified to the World Cup, Workers’ Party meetings and lectures for students were organized to celebrate “Young Gen. Kim Jong Un’s accomplishment.”
“For the Game. For the World.” That is FIFA’s motto, an embodiment of the spirit of international athletic competition. What North Korea has done is a blatant and offensive contradiction to the harmony cultivated in South Africa this summer. If the reports prove correct,-and anything coming out of North Korea is hard to verify with 100% validity- FIFA must move to ensure that such an event never happens again. Even if it mean’s that the Chollima’s second World Cup is its last for quite some time.

“For the Game. For the World.”

Donovan Rumor Mill, Transfers M-W

2010-07-29T12:50:00.000-07:00

Los Angeles Galaxy and US national Landon Donovan has been the subject plenty of transfer rumors. Following a strong World Cup showing with 3 goals and a successful 3 month loan spell with Everton there has been a greater demand for one of the best players in the MLS.
“We have had transfer interest and we will have some time to think about it and see where it goes,” Donovan said after the MLS All Stars 2 – 5 loss to Manchester United. “There is interest from a number of teams.”
Interest is thought to be relatively high for Donovan. A couple of Italian Serie A clubs are said to be in the mix for his services as well as Everton, Fulham, and Manchester City. Roberto Mancini, Manchester City’s manager, went on the record last week to call the approach to sign Donovan “possible.”
Meanwhile Everton captain Phil Neville has told Everton TV that “"I've spoken to Landon and I know for a fact that he wants to come back here."
MLS commissioner Don Garber has been quite vocal about his disproval of any move that would take Landon out of the MLS permanently.
“He’s become a real soccer hero. MLS needs soccer heroes, and we have a great American soccer hero playing for us in LA, holding the torch for the sport in our country, and that’s very important, I don’t believe its something we can do without,” Garber said. “"Landon is in my view the greatest player of our generation and an incredibly valuable part of our history but also of our future.”
While Donovan is an integral part of the Galaxy and the MLS I think having another American perform at a high level can only help the perception of American football. Manchester City has the deep pockets to pry Donovan away from the states; but perhaps going back to Everton or Fulham would give the midfielder a better opportunity to shine.

Now onto the second half of the transfer list:

Manchester City
In: Alex Henshall (Swindon Town), Jerome Boateng (Hamburg SV), David Silva (Valencia), Yaya Toure (Barcelona), Aleksandar Kolarov (Lazio)
Out: Paul Marshall (free, Walsall), Martin Petrov (free, Bolton), David Ball (loan, Swindon Town), Gunnar Nielsen (loan, Tranmere Rovers)

Manchester United
In: Chris Smalling (Fulham), Javier Hernandez (Chivas de Guadalajara)
Out: Ben Foster (Birmingham City), Ron-Robert Zieler ( Hannover 96), Zoran Tosic (CSKA Moscow), Tom Heaton (Cardiff City), Matthew James (Preston North End)

Newcastle United
In: James Perch (Nottingham Forest)
Out:

Stoke City
In: Florent Cuvelier (Portsmouth)
Out: Nathaniel Wedderburn (Northampton Town), Andy Griffin (Reading), Diego Arismendi (Barnsley), Ibrahim Sonko (Portsmouth)

Sunderland
In: Cristian Riveros (Cruz Azul), Simon Mignolet (Sint-Truiden), Ahmed Al-Muhammadi (ENPPI), Marcos Angeleri (Estudiantes La Plata), Titus Bramble (Wigan Athletic)
Out: Jamie Chandler (Darlington), Roy O’Donovan (Coventry City), Lorik Cana (Galatasaray), Daryl Murphy (Celtic), Conor Hourihane (Ipswich Town), Nyron Nosworthy (Sheffield United)

Tottenham
In: Sandro Ranieri Guimaraes Cordeiro (Internacional)
Out: Sam Cox (Barnet)

West Bromwich Albion
In: Gabriel Tamas (Auxerre), Pablo Ibanez (Atletico Madrid)
Out: Luke Daniels (Bristol Rovers), Borja Valero (Villarreal)

West Ham
In: Thomas Hitzlsperger (Lazio), Frederic Piquionne (Lyon), Pablo Barrera (UNAM Pumas)
Out: Bondz N’Gala (Plymouth Argyle)

Wigan
In: Antolin Alcaraz (Club Brugge), Mauro Boselli (Estudiantes La Plata)
Out: Tomasz Cywka (Derby County), Titus Bramble (Sunderland)

Wolverhampton Wanderers
In: Jelle Van Damme (Anderlecht), Steven Fletcher (Burnley), Steven Mouyokolo (Hull City), Stephen Hunt (Hull City)
Out: Jason Shackell (Barnsley), Mark Little (Peterborough United), George Friend (Doncaster Rovers), Andrew Surman (Norwich City), Nathaniel Mendez-Lang (Peterborough United)

Transfer's A-L

2010-07-26T18:36:00.000-07:00

With the World Cup over players can now focus on their respective clubs and the long campaign ahead. For managers this is a time to see what talent they can add to their squads. There are rumors afloat, so we’ll take a look at the key additions and losses of the past month. Today is the first half of the English Premier League (Arsenal – Liverpool).

Arsenal:
In: Marouane Chamakh (Bordeaux), Laurent Kocielny (Lorient)
Out: Fran Merida Perez (Atletico Madrid), Philippe Sendros (Fulham), Luke Ayling (Yeovil), Eduardo (Shaktar Donestk).

Aston Villa:
In:
Out: Andy Marshall (released), Wilfred Bouma (released), Marlon Harewood (released), Stephen O’Halloran (Coventry)

Birmingham City:
In: Ben Foster (Manchester United), Nikola Zigic (Valencia), Enric Valles (NAC Breda)
Out: Artur Krysiak (Exeter City), Gary McSheffrey (Coventry), Gregory Vignal (released), Jared Wilson (released), Lee Carsley (released), Frank Queudrue (released)

Blackburn:
In:
Out: Michael Hall (Accrington Stanley, free), Marcus Marshall (Rotherham United, free), Steven Reid (West Brom, free), Andy Haworth (Bury, undisclosed)

Blackpool
In:
Out: Daniel Nardiello (released), Hameur Bouazza (released), Al Bangura (released), Danny Mitchley (released), Joe Martin (released), Stephen McPhee (released), Ben Burgess (Notts County)

Bolton:
In: Martin Petrov (Manchester City), Robbie Blake (Burnley)
Out: Ricardo Vaz Te (released)

Chelsea
In: Yossi Benayoun (Liverpool)
Out: Joe Cole (Liverpool), Michael Ballack (Bayer Leverkusen), Juliano Belletti (released), Miroslav Stoch (Fenerbahce)

Everton
In: Jermaine Beckford (Leeds United), Joao Silva (Clube Deportivo das Aves), Jan Mucha (Legia Warsaw, free), Magaye Gueye (Strasbourg)
Out: Dan Gosling (Newcastle)

Fulham
In: Philippe Senderos (Arsenal), Jonathan Greening (West Bromwich)
Out: Wayne Brown (Bristol Rovers), Elliot Omozusi (Leyton Orient), Erik Nevland (released), Christopher Buchtmann (Cologne)

Liverpool
In: Jonjo Shelvey (Charlton), Milan Jovanovic (Standard Liege), Joe Cole (Chelsea), Danny Wilson (Rangers)
Out: Mikel San Jose (Athletic Bilbao), Robbie Threlfall (Bradford City), Fabio Aurelio (released), David Martin (MK Dons, free), Yossi Benayoun (Chelsea), Albert Riera (Olympiacos)

The French Factor

2010-07-23T16:24:00.000-07:00

Our weeklong mourning period is over. The World Cup may have ended but football and life will move on. In the MLS games will continue, in Europe clubs prepare for another campaign, and here at PK USA we continue to cover it.

There use to be a time when retired footballers would simply buy a pub or become a television commentator; those days have passed. This past Thursday I watched former Arsenal stalwart Theirry Henry’s first foray into the MLS and the only thing I could think of was “What a shame.”

Since his career began in 1994 Theirry Henry has been nothing short phenomenal. In 651 appearances with AS Monaco, Juventus, Arsenal, and Barcelona he has scored 306 times and contributed 157 assists. His mantle piece is full of individual awards: Two times the runner-up to the FIFA World Player of the Year (2003, 2004), The PFA Player’s Player of the Year (2003, 2004), and Football Writers’ Association of the Year (2003, 2004, 2006) are just a few of his many accomplishments.

So when the four-time French Player of the Year scored against the Spurs two thing became abundantly clear: The MLS is where former Football stars come to die and the most hated man in Ireland has come for a sizable paycheck and the opportunity to do very little.

Just like David Beckham in L.A., Henry is a name recognizable to the casual and hardcore football fans in the United States. However both also share the fact that neither is able to play at the high level they once were because, lets face it, if they did they wouldn’t be playing in the MLS. SI’s Grant Wahl perhaps said it best in that the MLS is 10-15 years away from signing a major talent in their prime; until then the MLS, USL, and DVL will need to do what they can to foster young American talent.

Free Kicks:

New French National manager Laurent Blanc has suspended the entire 23 man roster for Les Blues next international match against Norway on August 11th.
Following tremendous ratings for the World Cup, the viewership for MLS matches has remained the same. This has to be disappointing for the league who hoped to cash in on many of the bandwagon fans of the U.S. national team. Perhaps the USSF will lower their ticket prices for international games back to their pre-cup prices.
Monday we'll be addressing the past month of transfer signing and rumors including the growing interest for the services of Landon Donovan.

the 2010 World Cup PK USA Awards

2010-07-13T12:41:00.000-07:00

The 2010 World Cup is now gone. Spanish celebrations will ebb, Dutch hearts will mend, the Italians and French will attempt to pick up the pieces of once proud football organizations, and most American's will go on to forget what soccer is. So as we say goodbye to South Africa and turn our eyes toward the MLS and the beginnings of the EPL, here are the PK USA awards for the tournament.

The Golden Laces:

FIFA has its share of golden awards: the Ball (Diego Forlan), Boot (Tomas Mueller), and Glove (Iker Casillas). Here at PK USA we have the Golden Laces for the player we deem to have been the best. For the World Cup 2010 we are pleased to present the award to Thomas Mueller. With only eight caps on his resume the future is bright for the young German whose confidence on the ball helped lead an unheralded German team to a second straight third place finish.

Honorable Mention: Sergio Ramos, Wesley Sneijder, Diego Forlan, David Villa.

The Robert Green Award:

Named after the first, and biggest

, gaffe of the tournament the Robert Green Award will be given henceforth for the goat of the tournament, game, or week depending on the coverage. Naturally we’re giving the first RGA to Mr. Hand of Clod himself. Ex-English defender Terry Butcher wrote that it was the worst blunder he’d ever seen by an English keeper while the Sun wrote “Curses! New keeper cock-up as Green gifts Yanks a point.”

Second Place: Asamoah Gyan for failing to put Ghana into the Semi-finals on the last second penalty kick.

The Black Ball Award:

Cheat or Hero? Call him what you will, but there isn't arguing that no player was vilified more than Luis Suarez. Credited with breaking the collective heart of a continent, the Hand of Suarez will live on in infamy long after the last celebratory hangover in Spain fades. The hatred for the Uruguayan striker was loud enough to drown out even the vuvuzelas. Each time Suarez had the ball the boos rained down from the stands during Uruguay’s third place match against Germany.

Second Place: I was playing football with some mates from Ghana and there was some good natured ribbing about how they had bested my beloved Yanks. My comeback was just one word, “Suarez.” “Coulibaly,” my friend retorted. We both fell into silence. Suarez may have the hatred of Africa, but Mali referee Koman Coulibaly will forever be remembered as the man who cost the USA the greatest comeback in World Cup history.

Honorable Mention: Felipe Melo of Brazil whose own goal and stupid foul which earned a red card in a quarterfinal game is inexcusable; and Raymond Domenech the French Manager whose team was nothing short of pitiful.

Goal of the World Cup:

Giovanno Van Bronkhorst’s scortcher from distance against Uruguay
Diego Forlan’s half-volley in the third-place game against Germany
Landon Donovan’s game winning goal against Algeria

Best Name:

This once in a blue moon award goes to South African and Kaizer Chief Midfielder Siphiwe Tshabalala. Hearing the Spanish speaking announcer yell “GOOOOAL TSHABALALA!” was nothing short of brilliant.

Top Quotes:

“Four years ago we were hailed as champions; today we are playing like billy-goats.” – Gennaro Gattuso, Italy
“Come to your senses, people. He’s not a hero, he’s a trivial cheat. What hand of God? It was the Hand of the Devil.” – Ghana’s Serbian born manager Milovan Rajevac.
“He must wish the ground would open up and swallow him whole” – BBC’s World Cup Live Blog

Early Predictions

England will barely qualify for Brazil 2014, if at all. The English retained their manager and had a weak showing in the U20 World Cup in 2009, finishing behind Uzbekistan, Ghana, and Uruguay. Facing an ever aging squad, the future doesn't look bright for the Three Lions and the birthplace of football.
On a similar note, I expect Ghana to only get better over the next four years and, groups pending, make a serious run at that semi-final game.
The finals in 2014 will be an all South American affair.

Foot(hand?)ball and the 8 Legged Oracle

2010-07-07T21:40:00.000-07:00

For a sport so centered on feet as football is, there certainly has been a lot of focus on hands. In 1986 Diego Maradona’s Hand of God was the talk of that year’s cup. In 2009 Thierry Henry’s Hand of Frog cost the Irish a place on football’s greatest stage; and again in 2010 the United State’s was gifted the equalizing goal thanks to English Goalkeeper Robert Green’s infamous Hand of Clod. The trend continued this past week in the Uruguay-Ghana game.
With a score tied in the twilight of the second half Ghana took a last desperate aim to clinch a spot in the semifinals. The Ghanaians managed three shots. The first blocked by the Uruguayan keeper, the second stopped by striker Luis Suarez, the third, a header from Ghana’s Dominic Adiyiah, was on target. As it went toward the line the hearts of a continent jumped for joy, until Suarez, out of desperation, knocked the ball out with his hands. In response Suarez was given an early bath, Ghana a penalty; but when Asamoah Gyan’s penalty ricochet off the upright Suarez became a Uruguayan hero.
El Pais, a Uruguayan paper declared: “Long live the hands of Luis Suarez.”
Oscar Tabarez, the Uruguay manager said, “The hand of Suarez is the hand of God and the Virgin Mary.”
The man himself, Luis Suarez said: “The ‘Hand of God’ now belongs to me. Mine is the real ‘Hand of God’. I made the best save of the tournament. Sometimes in training I play as a goalkeeper so it was worth it.
However, as Asamoah Gyan’s penalty ricocheted off the upright and as the hearts of a continent collectively broke, Suarez became a villain. In Uruguay the Hand of Suarez will be the new Hand of God; but for Ghanaians, Africans, and perhaps for many football fans across the globe, it will be more akin to the Hand of the Devil.

Did Suarez cheat?
Without a doubt.
Was it worth it?
Yes.
Any footballer out there would do the same given the same predicament and would be crazy to do otherwise. Moving forward, Uruguay missed Suarez dearly in their contest against the Netherlands and, I’d argue, lost because they lacked a yin to Forlan’s Yang.

Predictions

I am ashamed dear readers. My predictions have been have gone from surprisingly accurate to piss poor, to say the least. But if you’re looking for a true guru make the pilgrimage to the Sea Life Aquarium in Overhausen, Germany. There Paul, a two-year old octopus, has become an overnight sensation. The cephlapod has correctly called every single game Germany has played in the World Cup. From the 1-0 loss to Serbia to the dominating victory over Argentina, and again with the disappointing fizzle that was the 1-0 loss to Spain, Paul has been unstoppable
How does he do it? His handlers encourage the eight legged savant by placing two class cubes bearing the nation’s flags and place a single muscle inside.
This of course didn’t sit well with the Argentinians who threatened to kill him and put him in a paella. The newspaper El Dia even offered cooking tips for anyone daring enough to capture the octopus. Germans may now add themselves to the list, though his handlers did promise to keep the two-year old safe in light of the impending German loss.
I would like to point out that even though I am 6 arms short of Paul, I did correctly place the Netherlands and Spain in the finals back on June 11th. Though my heart is with Oranje and I do hope they win, I will stick by my original prediction by giving Spain a 1-0 edge over the Netherlands in a tight affair; though with Wesley Sneijder and David Villa on opposing sides of the pitch the fireworks could be on display in Soccer City.
Your two-armed oracle also foresees a 3-2 win by the Germans over Uruguay at Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium.

Rating the 2010 U.S. World Cup Roster

2010-07-01T11:41:00.000-07:00

With the 2010 World Cup in the books - and the heart breaking loss against Ghana further removed - it's time to take a look at just how the Yanks did in South Africa.

Player Name: (caps)
Grade: (on the A-F scale)

GOALKEEPER:

Tim Howard: 4 Caps
Grade: C

Howard was a beast against England, average in the middle two rounds, and disappointing in the knockout-round loss to Ghana. The Everton man had to shoulder most of the blame for the first goal of that encounter in being out of position. Overall he had a respectable cup behind a struggling back four.

DEFENDERS:

Steve Cherundolo: 4 caps
Grade: B-

Cherundolo was surprise pick over Jonathan Spector at right back. Bradley’s faith in the experienced back proved well founded as he gave one of the most consistant performances by an American player in South Africa. Though this will certainly prove to be his last World Cup (he’s 31) Cherundolo was able to stifle the likes of Shaun Wright-Philips and provide a decent attacking option out of the back.

Carlos Bocanegra: 4 caps
Grade: C-

Despite a strong third game against Algeria the US captain was often exposed on the flanks by quicker opposition when playing on the left.

Jay DeMerit: 4 caps
Grade: D+

A decidedly average performance in the group stages was marred further by a wobbly game against Ghana.

Jonathan Bornstein: Two caps
Grade: D

Came onto the field when Onyewu was replaced in the center by Bocanegra. The attacking was lacking in the Algerian match and only slightly better in the knockout-round.

Oguchi Onyewu: Two caps
Grades: F

Onyewu was out of position on many of the set pieces coming into the American box. Furthermore the three goals scored on the Yanks during his time on the pitch could all be traced back to a mistake made by the AC Milan man. Perhaps it wasn’t the best decision to include a man seven months removed from playing competitive football?

Average Overall Grade: D+*/F+

* - The average grade is a bit generous for a squad who put their team in precarious positions in every game. You can’t be caught napping in the first 15 of every game and expect to come out on top every time. Truthfully I’d give them collectively an F+.

MIDFIELD:

Landon Donovan: 4 Caps
Grade: B+

Tied for the U.S.’ all time goal scorer and the leader for most World Cup appearances, Donovan was a rallying point during the Slovenia game and a hero in the Algerian match. He proved to be a constant threat in each game; but aside from his penalty kick in the Ghana game he was largely invisible. On the whole a good tournament in South Africa.

Michael Bradley: 4 Caps
Grade: B

Playing four full games for a box-to-box midfielder is no mean feat. Inspirational and unafraid to mix it up with the opposition Bradley was the gateway by which the U.S. went on their most successful attacks; and let’s not forget the equalizer in the Slovenia encounter. He did look a bit drained against Ghana; but that’s expected when his father rarely started him next to an adequate second center-mid.

Maurice Edu: 3 caps
Grade: C

Edu was robbed of a goal against Slovenia. That out of the way he did provide a much needed spark in that game. Defended and passed adequately and was a decent option next to Bradley when he played.

Clint Dempsey: 4 caps
Grade: C+

Dempsey created chances a plenty for the Yanks and should have added a second goal to his resume against Algeria. True one Robert Green gifted him a goal but credit has to be given for at least taking a chance outside the box. Dempsey perpetually put himself in harms way for his team in an effort to win the ball and his motor was always running. One has to wonder what it would’ve been like to have him as a striker for the full 90.

Benny Feilhaber: 3 caps
Grade: C+

Tidy in possession, brilliant in his passing, and with great vision; it is a wonder how Feilhaber wasn’t starting in the Round of 16. When he did play he often was a source of momentum for the Yanks.
DaMarcus Beasly: 1 cap
Grade: Incomplete

Only played 10 minutes against Algeria… didn’t impresses or disappoint, he was simply just there.
Stuart Holden: 1 cap
Grade: D-

Played well in the pre-cup warm ups, but didn’t do enough in his one World Cup match against England to register. I’m quite high on the Bolton man and think that we’ll see a more competent performance in Brazil in 2014.
Ricardo Clark: 2 caps
Grade: F-

Looked nervous against England and was at fault in the opening goal. Clark had no business playing in the knockout stages, a mistake which may cost his manager his job. Playing 31 minutes and gifting another goal before getting carded, Clark’s Ghana game was a disaster. Hopefully he has a good season in the Bundesliga to wash away his abysmal time in South Africa.

Jose Torres: 1 cap
Grade: F

Torres was a gamble in the Slovenia game; and sadly it didn’t pa off. Torres was unable to do anything positive with the ball and failed to hold up the center of the field on the defensive front.

Average Overall Grade: D+

Despite strong performances by Donovan, Bradley, Feilhaber and Dempsey(huh, why didn’t those four start together?) lack luster performances by Holden, Beasley, Clark and Torres brought the group down.

FORWARD

Jozy Altidore: 4 Caps
Grade: D-

Let’s clear something out of the way: I don’t like Altidore. I think he’s lazy in his refusal to make runs off the ball and he just doesn’t hustle. That out of the way, you’d think that playing the full 90 in four games (he was substituted in extra time against Ghana) would lead to at least one goal. I will say that he is a physical presence and did well to create havoc against the Slovenian side as well as to help set up that crucial goal to Bradley. The truth is Altidore didn't do much to register in the competition. As a friend puts it, registering means doing something memorable and Alitdore was distinctly forgettable.

Herculez Gomez: 3 caps
Grade: D

One of two surprise selections, Gomez didn’t have the impact off the bench that he hinted at in the warm-ups.

Edson Buddle: 2 caps
Grade: D+

Created chances and had a decent outing against Algeria.
Robbie Findley: 3 caps
Grade: F

If Bradley had wanted a speedy forward for the sake of speed he’d have been better off leaving Eddie Johnson in the squad. Speed without a purpose is the best way to describe Findley. He had a few chances on goal but was unable to provide the touch required to play at this level. Findley is more of a reason than any other to have brought Brian Ching onto the squad for one last ride to provide some veteran savvy to the front 2.
Overall Average Grade: D-

The Yanks just don’t have the sophisticated striking force to match their scoring midfielders. This will have to be rectified moving forward by Bob Bradley or his replacement.

COACHING STAFF:
Bob Bradley
Grade: D+

Bob Bradley shook up the apple cart by brining in Edson Buddle and Herculez Gomez to strengthen his striking corps. However his questionable decision in creating the line-up against Ghana will most likely cost him his job. The blame for the early concession of goals will – fairly or unfairly – come to rest on the managers head.

Pierre Barrieu and Mateus Manoel: Grade: A

Barrieu and Manoel both succeeded in providing the most fit squad in South Africa and deserve mention. Having the ability to outrun and outlast their opposition was key in many of the Yank’s comeback attempts.

Coaching Average: B-

BREAKDOWN BY GAME:
U.S. 1 - 1 England: C+
So much for an "E.A.S.Y." group for England who finished in second. The Yanks created a goal thanks to the now infamous Hand of Clod; but otherwise played England quite well, having gifted the Three Lions their early goal. Howard was simply amazing in this game.
U.S. 2 - 2 Slovenia: C
Yes, what a comeback by the Yanks to nearly win after going down two in the first half. However an amazing second half doesn't excuse a horrendous first half.
U.S. 1 - 0 Algeria: C-
The Yanks almost gifted the Algerians another early goal while looking lost against the Desert Foxes counter attack. The 91' goal by Donovan may go down as the second most important goal in U.S. football history behind the win against England in 1950; but it doesn't eclipse other mistakes.
U.S. 1 - 2 Ghana: D
Questionable squad choices coupled with players who just looked gassed. Mental errors undid the the Yanks as well as decent performances by the Black Stars.

U.S. SQUAD FINAL GRADE: D+

A better break down would be “First 45 USA” F and “Second 45 USA” B+. Alas our scoring doesn’t work like that. Though this was a step forward for U.S. Football it was also a poor showing in many regards for a team that I believed good enough to make the quarterfinals.

Nike's Influence

2010-06-30T20:50:00.000-07:00

I’d like to make a bold prediction. Uruguay will play in the finals of this year’s World Cup. I don’t make this bit of without basis or out of any love for the side. First I see Forlan and company brushing past the upstart Ghanaians in a rather one sided affair. Following that they will shock the world by besting either the Dutch or Brazilian sides. “But how PKUSA,” you must be wondering, “how can the Uruguayans possibly get to the Promised Land after half century long absence?”
The answer is simple: Nike. More specifically, Uruguay will advance thanks to a cursed Nike commercial.
Let’s take a look shall we? Notice anything that is in the commercial yet no longer in the cup? Let us take a look.

Ivory Coast vs. Italy – Out and Out
England vs. France – Out and Out
Rooney vs. Federer (table tennis) – Rooney had a disappointing campaign; failing to put the ball in the back of the net once in four games. Federer is likewise out at Wimbledon.
South Korea vs. Brazil – Out and partially out. You see Brazil may have a chance to best this curse. In Nike’s add Ronaldhino is featured showing some impressive footwork. However Ronaldhino didn’t make the squad. Perhaps it was the curse working on a personal level; or maybe the formal Brazilian stalwart took a bullet for his team.
Portugal vs the Netherlands – Out and In. Netherlands is still in the tournament; but I don’t believe them to be in it for long.
USA and Spain also have brief roles, though only Spain remains in the cup. Look to the Paraguayan side to be the third side to shock the Spaniards on South African soil in the last year.

So an early congratulations to you Uruguay, see you in the finals

Looking at the USA

2010-06-27T13:14:00.000-07:00

Looking Back:
In many ways the U.S. men’s national team’s 2-1 loss to Ghana exemplified the Yank’s 2010 campaign. An early goal, courtesy of a mistake by Ricardo Clark, by Portsmouth forward Kevin Prince Boateng gave Ghana the lead within the first five minutes of play.
“I kind of got the ball stuck in my feet,” Clark recalled, “I think they played it in the midfield and I got caught in my decision making and didn’t react fast enough. The guy stole the ball and it’s unfortunate because it led to a goal. I feel like I let my team down and I take full responsibility on that goal.”
In an uncharacteristic move by U.S. manager Bob Bradley, Clark would be taken off in the first half in favor of Maurice Edu. Bradley and Clark both claim that it was because of a yellow card. One can’t help but wonder how he started ahead of Edu or Benny Feilhaber, both of whom had better tournaments.
True to the script the Americans came to life in the second half with Landon Donovan burying a penalty kick to draw even. However the U.S. weren’t able to create any sort of momentum as 90 minutes came to an end. Surely the United States who prided themselves on being the fit team in the world would be able to outlast the tiring Ghanaians.
However in the first moments of extra time the Americans looked sluggish. Within the first three minutes of extra time the Black Stars were able to capitalize on a sluggish American defense. Asomoah Gyan outran Carlos Bocanegra, outmaneuvered Jay DeMerit, and put an end to American World Cup dreams with a well placed ball into the right side of the net.
“Too often right after the whistle blows,” remarked Everton’s Tim Howard, “We get hit and if you do that enough times you’ll pay for it. We have had the good fortune of not paying for it before, but we did today.”
“The finality of it is brutal,” Donovan said after the game, “You realize how much you’ve put into it not just in the last four years, but your whole life.”
As the Yanks head home they should hold their heads high. They one their group for the first time (I don’t include the 1930 Cup) and outlasted and outperformed two football powers in Italy and France. Yet thoughts of what could have been will haunt the thoughts of the Americans for some time. They could not have asked for an easier road in the round of 16, only playing a major football power in the Semifinals.

Looking to the Future:
What lies in the future for the United States? Certainly it is too early to read much into how the national pool will advance in the next four years; but here are some key players and issues to keep in mind
1. Bob Bradley’s contract runs out at the end of the year. The former MetroStars and Fire coach has the backing of captain Carlos Bocanegra and Landon Donovan won’t discuss the matter. “I don’t think its time to talk about my situation,” he said. “We culminated a four-year cycle in Africa and we’re disappointed.” Despite a disappointing loss to Ghana Bradley has done everything asked of him by the United States Soccer Federation. Under Bradley the Yanks not only advanced, but won, the group; a fact which will weigh heavily in the decision making.
2. Two coaches that I do see moving as a result of the World Cup will be head fitness coach Pierre Barrieu and assistant fitness coach Mateus Manoel. After putting forth one of the most fit squads in South Africa expect both the US and Kansas City Wizards coaches to get a look at by bigger clubs.
3. Though I anticipate Everton making another push for Landon Donovan in the upcoming transfer window I think it’s more likely that two other American midfielders change sides. With strong showings by both Benny Feilhaber and Michael Bradley the two have shown that they have what it takes to play at an even higher level. It’ll be fascinating to see what type of interest sparks over the two.

Looking at the Youth:
Here are three youth players that I see possibly making a push for the first team over the next four years.
1. Gale Agbossoumonde – Miami FC (USL): The 19 year old defender from Syracuse, NY has already been compared to Oguchi Onyewu for his size. 6-2 and 185 lbs. He has been praised for his high soccer IQ and strength. On loan with Portuguese side SC Braga with an option to buy it is highly likely that Agbossoumonde could find himself as a replacement for the current aging US defensive back four.
2. Dilly Duka (Columbus Crew) – A surprise pick in for the US U20 World Cup squad last year, Duka is a lightning quick midfielder that this year’s team was sorely missing. Scoring 2 goals in 13 youth caps perhaps it’s a little early to tout this prospect; but I have high expectations.

3. Josh Lambo (FC Dallas) – the US has been blessed with a depth at the goal keeper position. However with second string US Keeper Marcus Hahnemann turning 40 and in his last World Cup perhaps the time is right for Lambo to step into the limelight for his country. Even though it will only be as the second or third stringer behind Howard.

Game 3: United States vs. Algeria

2010-06-22T17:57:00.000-07:00

Tonight the Yanks stand on the verge of their judgment day. Facing against an Algerian side fresh off their upset 0-0 draw with England, the Yanks will be looking for the 3 points which will guarantee them a pass into the knockout stages of the World Cup. However several key issues will be facing Bob Bradley’s men going into the There are several issues which Bob Bradley’s boys will need to address for their showdown tomorrow at Loftus Versfeld Stadium.
First, the American Manager will need to decide who will be replacing Robert Findley up top with Jose Alitodore. Edson Buddle appears the likely candidate with Herculez Gomez staying on the bench in a “supersub” type role. If Buddle isn’t able to do what is needed don’t be surprised to see Clint Dempsey move forward from his midfield role with Stuart Holden or Benny Feilhaber playing wide in his absence.
Speaking of midfield, the revolving door of the second starting central midfielder will need to be decided. Maurice Edu seems the likely choice given his near goal heroics against Slovenia, though Ricardo Clark will considered. This means that Francisco Torres will be the odd man out, especially after his lackluster performance against Slovenia in the first half.
The obvious matter to be addressed is the United States’ habit of falling behind early in games. They may have scrapped by for a win the past two games, but I don’t want to tempt fate by asking for another late game comeback. If the Yanks can play the full 90 like they do the back 45’ they are a dangerous team and more than a match for the Desert Foxes. Oguchi Onyewu will need to play smarter on the back line and not commit any stupid errors as he has been prone to do, leading to the three goals scored against the US. If the Yanks can come out with a win it will end a 6 cup streak of failing to win the third match in group stages, a curse which I’m sure Bradley’s men are dying to get rid of.

2010-06-21T15:31:00.000-07:00

Going into the final round of group games and there isn’t a shortage of headlines. Les Blues are in shambles, England is struggling, Spain has [hopefully] found its footing, and a series of last minute gasps to advance to the round of 16.

Final Group Matches: Group C will come tomorrow.

Group A:
Mexico vs. Uruguay: Neither side will be playing with much intensity knowing that it would take a minor miracle for either side to drop from finishing first or second. Prediction: Draw 1-1
France vs. South Africa: Les Blues have become a side show with no soul left to play with; while the South Africans play for national pride. Goalkeeper Itumeleng Khune will be sorely missed, and a lot will depend on whether Moneeb Josephs or Shu-Aib Walters can fill the void between the posts. In the end the 12th man in the stands will push Bafana Bafana onto their first, and last, win of the cup. 1-0 South Africa.

Finals Standings: Uruguay, Mexico, South Africa, France

Group B:
Argentina vs. Greece: Maradona’s side will advance. Playing with a watered down side the Argentine side will play against a team who has had a typically weak Greek World Cup. The Argentine bench warmers will still make easy work of the perpetually disappointing Greeks who will look more like they did against South Korea than they did against Nigeria. 2-0 Argentina.
Nigeria vs. South Korea: The South Koreans will be going up against a team who I considered to be a dark horse candidate to make some waves in a very top heavy group. The lack of team cohesiveness has been their downfall and the Koreans willtake advantage it. 2-0 South Korea.

Final Standings: Argentina, South Korea, Greece, Nigeria.

Group D:
Germany vs. Ghana: Can Germany reclaim its form from the Aussie game? Doubtful. The Germans youth may show with the pressure on the line against a more seasoned Black Star side; but on paper I see little separating both sides as the pressure piles on. 1-1 draw.
Serbia vs. Australia: Look to Serbia to muscle and grind out the win as the Socceroo’s age to dust under the glare of the lights in Mbombela Stadium. Serb’s win 1-0.

Final Standings: Serbia, Ghana, Germany, Australia

Group E.
Cameroon vs. Netherlands: The Dutch have already secured their ticket to the round of sixteen and will likely field some less proven faces. Cameroon lacks the quality to measure up against the Oranje warm ups and will join Nigeria and South Africa in the stands for the rest of the tournament. 2-0 Netherlands.
Denmark vs. Japan: Denmark will continue its form over the Blue Samurais. Japan only needs a tie to advance and may try to play for just that, giving an opening to the Danes. 1-0 Denmark in a tight affair.

Final Predictions: Netherlands, Denmark, Japan, Cameroon

Group F:
Slovakia vs. Italy: Italy will dive. A lot. That isn’t to say that their chances will plunge with them against a weak Slovakia who will most likely serve as an outlet for Italian frustrations. 2-1 Italy.
Paraguay vs New Zealand: The Good News: The All Whites played very well against the Italians. The Bad News: Paraguay is a better side and won’t be playing down to their opponents. 3-0 Paraguay

Final Predictions: Paraguay, Italy, New Zealand, Slovakia

Group G:
Portugal vs. Brazil: Brazil has their ticket punched to the second round. Portugal will need to play well against a bigger side to dispel the near failure of their qualification campaign. Dunga won’t be resting too many faces knowing the pressure on him to take the Group of Death. Portugal’s only goal will be to not concede a large amount.. 2-1 Brazil.
DPRK vs. Cote d’Ivoire: Cote d’Ivoire will do their best Portuguese impression and tear apart a North Korean side that will be looking to save face in front of their “fans.” 4-0 Cote d’ivoire

Final Predictions: Brazil, Portugal, Cote d’Ivoire, Korea DPR

Group H:
Chile vs. Spain: Spain will need to play better than they did against Honduras against a much better squad. The Spanish Manager should move David Villa into a more central role if they are to expect better results. Chile holds the stumbling reigning European champions with a draw sealing a disappointing campaign by the Spanish. 1-1 Draw
Switzerland vs. Honduras: The Swiss will see off one of the weaker teams in the tournament. Honduras hasn’t shown me that they have the quality to deal with the big boys of the tournament much less the team that beat the big boy of the group. 1-0 Switzerland

Final Prediction: Chile, Switzerland, Spain, Honduras.

Thoughts on...

2010-06-18T09:48:00.000-07:00

The 2-2 USA tie with Slovenia at Ellis Park.

1) The Comeback kids. The Yanks have a knack for crawling out of their holes created by their slow starts. Against England they survived a one point deficit to pull even and again today after an abysmal first half resulting in going down 2-0. In a crucial match against Algeria next week the United States will need to have a strong, full 90 minutes of play [as well as a Slovenian loss or draw] to advance to the knockout round.
2) Poor performances by Findley should open the door to a start by Edson Buddle. Coach Bob Bradley could move Clint Dempsey up and the likes of Maurice Edu to start in the midfield.
3) I wonder who was more proud with the game equalizing goal by Michael Bradley, Bob Bradley the coach or the father.
4) I tried to put it off as long as I could; but the US were robbed blind by Malian referee Koman Coulibaly. The call was a foul on Edu not offside; but after watching the play over and over again I can’t find anything enough to warrant taking away what would have been an historic, heroic goal by the American midfielder.
5) The Slovenian’s first half was that of a team meant to pass through the group stage; the second, a team destined for an early exit. Just like the United States, it is a matter of which team will show up next week.

Quick Thoughts On...

2010-06-12T16:52:00.000-07:00

England vs. The United States:
1. Robert Green will be living with this moment the rest of his life and as long as the English and American fans remember one of the worst blunders by a Goalkeeper in the World Cup.
2. I think out of all the subs that should have been made (and weren't) would have bee taking out Michael Bradley. He seemed to have glue on his cleats taking way to many steps with the ball.
3. Jay Demerit, Oguchi Onyewu, and Steve Cherundolo played quite well holding Wayne Rooney to a very limited role.
4. I think that the hearts of the Yank's staff, fans, and players stopped for 5 minutes as Tim Howard rolled around in pain in the box. Aside from Green, Howard would receive my man of the match award for this game, keeping the score at 1 for his side.
5. As much as I'd have loved to see the Yanks repeat 1950, the Yanks will take the draw knowing they were gifted their lone goal. [First correct prediction of the tournament] both in result and in points.

On The Other Matches:
1. As much credit as I'd like to give to South Korean scorers Lee Jung-soo and Park Ji-sung, the ineptitude of the Greeks was truly on display.
2. Maradona's formation played dividends for the Argentinians, giving Messi a similar role to that of his club football in Barcelona. Truthfully the heroics of Vincent Enyeama kept the Nigerians in the game.
3. If Slovenia or Algeria can come away with three points tomorrow, then the pressure will really be on England and the Yanks to win their remaining games.

Predictions for Tomorrow:
1. Serbia and Ghana 1-1 draw
2. Germany 2-0 over Australia
3. 1-0 Slovenia over Algeria

Predictions

2010-06-11T07:12:00.001-07:00

Tomorrow the eyes of the world will shift to South Africa. So without further adieu, here’s are our predictions for the World Cup 2010.

(Due to circumstances beyond my control here’s the list with some gaps in the thoughts)

Group A:
1. Mexico – I expect a strong showing by El Tri this year. Bringing in 34 year old Cauhtermoc Blanco brings experience to a team made up of the younger Carlos Vela, Giovani dos Santos, and Andres Guardado. Mexico fancies itself amongst the Latin America elite along with Brazil and Argentina and 2010 figures to be the year where they prove it. Though I personally would love to see El Tri crash and burn, the reality is that they will probably go further than their neighbors to the north.
2. Uruguay – Los Charruas are two time World Cup winners, though that was way back in 1930 and 1950. The Uruguayan attack will depend on Man United’s Diego Forlan and the creativity of Ajax’s Nicolas Lodeiro. I expect Los Charruas to scrape their way out of the group by the skin of their teeth on the strength of their attack.
3. France – Even though Les Blues may have been handed a spot in the group stages they should be far from satisfied. Since winning in 1998 the French have been maddeningly inconsistent becoming hot some years and frigid in others. If history is any indicator this should translate into an early exit from the French. Despite this I do foresee a strong performance by Olympic Lyonnais’ keeper Hugo Lloris.
4. South Africa - South Africa has the bad luck of being drawn into a group behind teams which are must better than they are. Don’t be surprised to see Bafana Bafana (“the boys”) become the first host nation to not advance out of the group. They do have an outside chance to best the French who have struggled mightily if Benni McCarthy and Steven Pienaar can give life to a struggling South African attack. The weight of 49 million rests with their team; and they will crumble.

Group B:
1. Argentina - Though they struggled mightily in qualification La Albiceleste should breeze through a comparatively weak group with ease. The attack featuring Sergio Aguero, Angel Di Maria, and Tevez will be vital if the Argentines hope to achieve their goal of winning the cup as a whole. If Albiceleste manager Diego Maradona can get Barcelona’s golden boy, Lionel Messi to play at even half his club form on the international level than the Argentines should be favored for a top 3 finish.
Barcelona’s golden boy Lionel Messi needs to have a strong international showing to help stem the criticism of his international play.
2. South Korea – After surviving the Asian Qualification Group of Death, the Taeguk Warriors will look to ride striker Park Chu-young into the second round for only the second time; the first being in 2002 when they reached the second round. The defense does worry me and the South Koreans will need to rely on Chu-young, Park Ji-sung, and Lee Chung-yong to keep the score in their favor. It will be close race against the Greeks and it may come down to goal differential to separate the two sides.
3. Greece – Since winning Euro 2004 To Piratiko failed to qualify in for the 2006 World Cup or Euro 2008. Manager Otto Rehhagel is sure to be leading a tactically sound squad, which will depend on the finishing of Theofanis Gekas. Ultimately to Piratiko’s fate will test upon the performance of it’s midfield.
4. Nigeria – The Super Eagles managed to go through qualification without losing a single game and are have plenty of talent both on the pitch and off on the bench. I don’t see the Nigerians gelling to make a run similar to that of the Olympic winning side in 1996.

Group C: see earlier post.
1. England
2. United States
3. Slovenia
4. Algeria

Group D:
1. Germany - Despite injuries to Ballack I still see the Germans advancing to take on the US in the knock-out round, a feat Die Mannschaft has managed to accomplish without fail over the last 72 years. The burden of the midfield will instead fall upon Mesut Ozil and Bastian Schweinsteiger. Miroslav Klose has scored 5 goals in each of his past two World Cups and I wouldn’t be shocked to see him accomplish that in 2010.
2. Serbia – The hopes of Beli Orlovi will rest with Manchester United’s Memanja Vidic who will need to have a healthy tournament to see Serbia through to the second round. The biggest question mark is with keeper Vladimir Stojkovic who will need to have the tournament of his life, despite having only started 16 games at the club level in the past 3 years.
3. Ghana - Initially I had The Black Stars squeezing into the Second round but injuries to Michael Essien has tilted the scale in favor of the Serbs in what figures to be a close race. If they are to push Beli Orlovi they will need to find another goal scorer outside of Asamoah Gyan as well as to rely on some of its younger players who were able to win the 2009 U20 World Cup. The youth however may turn into a downfall when playing against the more experienced sides.
4. Australia - The 3-1 loss to the Americans did little to improve my opinion on the Socceroos who will face teams of equal or greater ability than the Yanks. A lot will rest on Tim Cahill if they are to at least perform respectably. A tough group will leave fond memories of their appearance in the Round of 16 in 2006 and that is what they will remain, fond memories.

Group E:
1. Netherlands – Oranje is head and shoulders the best team in the division. With big names such as Robin Van Persie, Wesley Sneijder and Arjen Robben the attack should prove to be too much for the lesser teams to handle. The defense however will remain a the weakness of the team and Bert van Markwijk will need to translate their technical skill into victory without fizzling out like they did in the past Euro.
2. Denmark -
3. Japan -
4. Cameroon -

Group F:
1. Italy -
2. Paraguay -
3. Slovakia -
4. New Zealand – In a country known for their rugby team and declared 1000-1 long shots, the All Whites are destined for an early exit. I wish I could write something to give them hope, but New Zealand will be lucky to come out with any points in Group F.

Group G:
1. Brazil -
2. Portugal -
3. Ivory Coast - In my opinion Ivory Coast was the best African side going into the World Cup. After the injury to Chelsea striker Didier Drogba I doubt whether they can advance. Drogba expects to return from his fractured ulna by the June 15th match against Portugal which will prove critical. In his absence Les Elephants will rely on Salamon Kalou, Aruna Dindane, and possibly Gervinho to shoulder the responsibility up front.
4. North Korea - ________ will come into the group hoping to duplicate the success of their last appearance in 1966 when they shocked the world by making it to the quarter finals. Replicating that feat seems well out of reach after being placed into this years Group of Death. Though I do think if North Korean striker Jong Tae-se can cash in on his promise to score “one goal per game” that he may garner some attention outside of Japan, but I doubt he’ll manage to score more than once.

Group H:
1. Spain – Smarting from their loss to the USA in their last tournament Spain, chalk full of talent, will advance with ease.
2. Honduras – A better side than they are given credit for and they will show it here.
3. Chile -
4. Switzerland -

Final 3:
1. Spain
2. Netherlands
3. Argentina
(4.) Mexico

Group C

2010-06-09T11:32:00.000-07:00

Gazing into my crystal ball, here's how I see Group C [Algeria, England, Slovenia, and the US] playing out. England is the clear favorite, though injuries to Aaron Lennon and Rio Ferdinand will only serve to be minor speed bumps along the way to taking the Group C crown. The United States will be seen as favored to advance, though their third match against Algeria will be key in solidifying that position.

Predictions for the US:
Game 1: England - This is the biggest question mark. I see Arsenal Winger Theo Walcott will be the natural replacement for Lennon, giving the Three Lions a speedy winger to stretch the US defense. Expect the US defense to harass English and Man U forward Wayne Rooney all match in an attempt to force him into making rash decisions. Final Prediction: 1-1.
Game 2: Slovenia - Unlike in the first game where they will be playing a reactionary style of play I foresee the US being more attack minded against Slovenia. If the US falls against England this will be the crucial game in determining the runner up. Predictions: 2-1 Yanks.
Game 3: Algeria - Based on common opponents I don't see the Algerians giving the Yanks any trouble. A win here solidifies the position and an advancement against the winner of Group D. Prediction: 3-0 Yanks.

Final Group Standings:
1. England
2. United States
3. Slovenia
4. Algeria

Quick Thoughts:
1. Robert Findley's inability to score goals, despite having wonderful opportunities, against Australia could result in him seeing limited playing time.
2. I expect Oguchi Onyewu to show his rust against England. Furthermore I expect him to concede a goal whilst playing his first 90 minutes in 7 months.
3. Herculez Gomez is going to have his international coming out party this years. Coming off the bench and scoring 2 goals in the group stages is not outside the realm of possibilities.
4. If Gomez performs like I think he will don't be surprised to see the Golden Boot winner to garner the attention of European clubs.
5.I think the idea that former English captain and Chelsea defender John Terry's "extra curricular activities" affecting the play of the team is far-fetched.
6. I think the June 12th Match up between the Three Lions and the Yanks will have the feeling of a home game for one, if not both, of the two teams with the US and England making up the largest percentage of ticket holders
7. On quick note for all the analysts who see US' 2-3 defeat by Brazil in the Confederations Cup as a strong showing are sorely misguided. Beating Spain was a tremendous victory and possibly the biggest victory for the Yanks since the 1-0 win over England in 1950. However many fail to point out that the US simply fell apart after going ahead 2-0. The United States will need to have a stronger second half in the World Cup if they are to succeed.

Oh When The Yanks Go Marching In...

2010-06-08T19:56:00.000-07:00

The World Cup is now only 59 hours away. For the Yanks the tournament doesn't begin until the 12th when they face off against group favorite England. Given the strong showings of the US in their last two full strength friendlies against Turkey (2-1) and Australia (3-1) there is plenty to be happy about. So before looking onto the groups as a whole lets first examine the Yanks' Roster.

Keepers: Tim Howard (Everton), Marcus Hahnemann (Wolverhampton), Brad Guzan (Aston Villa).
Howard is by far the best option for the US and has shown himself to be a great replacement when Kasey Keller retired from international play. I see Hahnemann to be the clear #2, especially given Guzan's struggles against the Czech Republic. Despite this having three premiership keepers on hand hardly is a hindrance.

Defense: Carlos Bocanegra (Rennes), Jonathan Bornstein (Chivas USA), Steve Cherundolo (Hannover), Jay DeMerit (Watford), Clarence Goodson (IK Start), Oguchi Onyewu (AC Milan), Jonathan Spector (West Ham).
The biggest question mark here is how will Onyewu be able to handle his first full 90 minutes of football in 7 months. The other is how resilient will the defense be against the counter, which the US has proven to be susceptible to (see the game against Turkey). US Manager Bob Bradley has shown himself to prefer players who can play multiple positions so don't be surprised to see Maurice Edu fill in as an emergency center back.

Midfielders: DaMarcus Beasley (Rangers), Michael Bradley (Borussia Moenchengladbach), Ricardo Clark (Eintracht Frankfurt), Clint Dempsey (Fulham), Landon Donovan (LA Galaxy), Maurice Edu (Rangers), Benny Feilhaber (AGF Aarhus), Stuart Holden (Bolton), Jose Torres (Pachuca).
Playing in the 4-4-2 the US will be relying on strong play from their midfield; and they are blessed with a depth at midfield. Though Donovan may be the United States' favorite son, the US will be dependent on a strong performance by Clint Dempsey if they are to have any hope of matching up against the world's football elite. I expect Stuart Holden to provide a strong performance from the Bench, contributing much like he did against the Czech Republic.

Forwards: Jozy Altidore (Hull), Edson Buddle (LA Galaxy), Robbie Findley (Real Salt Lake), Herculez Gomez (Pachuca).
If he can come back from his ankle sprain strong Jozy Altidore is the unquestioned starter. However he has a maddening habit of not hustling when he is off the ball; and at times just looks uninterested. Once considered dark horse candidates the leading scorer in Mexico (Gomez) and in the MLS (Buddle) have shown they are deserving of their roster spot. Buddle's brace against Australia is hopefully a sign of things to come while Gomez has shown himself to have a knack for scoring from the bench in both the Czech and Aussie games. Findley has great pace yet seems to be the odd man out. I would think that a healthy US front would include Altidore and Buddle with Gomez coming on in the final 15 minutes of play.

Expectations: I expect to see the US advance past the group stages, though winning Group C is not out of the question. The June 12th opener against England will set the tone. Should the US fall, the final group match against Algeria could mean the difference between advancing to the knock-out round and going home.