***Official Soccer Discussion Thread*** (3 Viewers)

[Bonzai]

Good game, fair result. Chelsea were the better side.

Vidic misses the next game at Anfield which is quite a blow for United.

and it went from bad to worse.... Hope Rio gets back in time.chelsea were better in the 2nd half. I didnt see it but the commentary states: David Luiz was impressive, but perhaps could have been sent off, before Lampard got all three points.

agree or disagree? Would have been his 2nd yellow and changes the game at that point.

It was an obvious yellow. He should've been sent off. A bit of karma for Rooney's antics last game, I guess.The penalty was pretty weak too. Nothing Smalling could do, really. Jerkoff just ran into him.

 

[jonessed]

Good game, fair result. Chelsea were the better side.

Vidic misses the next game at Anfield which is quite a blow for United.

and it went from bad to worse.... Hope Rio gets back in time.chelsea were better in the 2nd half. I didnt see it but the commentary states: David Luiz was impressive, but perhaps could have been sent off, before Lampard got all three points.

agree or disagree? Would have been his 2nd yellow and changes the game at that point.

It was an obvious yellow. He should've been sent off. A bit of karma for Rooney's antics last game, I guess.The penalty was pretty weak too. Nothing Smalling could do, really. Jerkoff just ran into him.

He ran into his outstretched leg. There was very little Smalling could have done, but there really is no debate about whether or not he tripped him.

 

[Bonzai]

Good game, fair result. Chelsea were the better side.

Vidic misses the next game at Anfield which is quite a blow for United.

and it went from bad to worse.... Hope Rio gets back in time.chelsea were better in the 2nd half. I didnt see it but the commentary states: David Luiz was impressive, but perhaps could have been sent off, before Lampard got all three points.

agree or disagree? Would have been his 2nd yellow and changes the game at that point.

It was an obvious yellow. He should've been sent off. A bit of karma for Rooney's antics last game, I guess.The penalty was pretty weak too. Nothing Smalling could do, really. Jerkoff just ran into him.

He ran into his outstretched leg. There was very little Smalling could have done, but there really is no debate about whether or not he tripped him.

He certainly didn't trip him intentionally. Like I said, the guy just ran into him.

 

[jonessed]

Good game, fair result. Chelsea were the better side.

Vidic misses the next game at Anfield which is quite a blow for United.

and it went from bad to worse.... Hope Rio gets back in time.chelsea were better in the 2nd half. I didnt see it but the commentary states: David Luiz was impressive, but perhaps could have been sent off, before Lampard got all three points.

agree or disagree? Would have been his 2nd yellow and changes the game at that point.

It was an obvious yellow. He should've been sent off. A bit of karma for Rooney's antics last game, I guess.The penalty was pretty weak too. Nothing Smalling could do, really. Jerkoff just ran into him.

He ran into his outstretched leg. There was very little Smalling could have done, but there really is no debate about whether or not he tripped him.

He certainly didn't trip him intentionally. Like I said, the guy just ran into him.

Whether it was intentional or not is irrelevant. Smalling's leg was between Zhirkov and the ball and Zhirkov ran into it. That's all that really matters. It was unfortunate for Smalling that he was caught flat-footed.It's like some of the handballs that are called in the box. Sometimes there is very little the defender can do, but if the arm isn't near the body it's going to get called.

Keep your arms in and don't get caught flat-footed with your leg out.

 

[El Floppo]

Good game, fair result. Chelsea were the better side.

Vidic misses the next game at Anfield which is quite a blow for United.

and it went from bad to worse.... Hope Rio gets back in time.chelsea were better in the 2nd half. I didnt see it but the commentary states: David Luiz was impressive, but perhaps could have been sent off, before Lampard got all three points.

agree or disagree? Would have been his 2nd yellow and changes the game at that point.

It was an obvious yellow. He should've been sent off. A bit of karma for Rooney's antics last game, I guess.The penalty was pretty weak too. Nothing Smalling could do, really. Jerkoff just ran into him.

He ran into his outstretched leg. There was very little Smalling could have done, but there really is no debate about whether or not he tripped him.

He certainly didn't trip him intentionally. Like I said, the guy just ran into him.

Whether it was intentional or not is irrelevant. Smalling's leg was between Zhirkov and the ball and Zhirkov ran into it. That's all that really matters. It was unfortunate for Smalling that he was caught flat-footed.It's like some of the handballs that are called in the box. Sometimes there is very little the defender can do, but if the arm isn't near the body it's going to get called.

Keep your arms in and don't get caught flat-footed with your leg out.

Luiz absolutely should've been sent off for that off-the-ball trip on Rooney. Play would/should've stopped at that point and so maybe the play building up immediately after that lead to the PK wouldn't have happened... maybe. Luiz might face some kind of punishment from the FA for that... maybe. And before the "Rooney elbow etc" people chime in- the ref here clearly did NOT see this play, so in this case the FA has room to issue santions after the fact. I thought Luiz played very, very well- but seemed like there were a number of challenges by him that could've been yellow worthy... as if he's over-compensating to the EPL by just flying into challenges.

Seemed a pretty even game to me- edge to Chelsea more on desire than quality of play. Chelsea did have the better chances though (that save by VdS in the first half was unreal) and deserved the 3 points, based on those and their will to win.

And as a neutral, this was the best possible result to open the EPL title race.

 

[B Maverick]

thanks. I didnt see it just the ESPN game center and Eurosport iPhone app commentaries i was reading.

Its too bad for Smalling since he has done a admirable job filling in for Rio. Need Rio back for Sunday to pair up with Smalling with Vidic out.

Chance Vidic appeals and the 1 game ban is lifted?!?! Now wouldnt THAT just fan the fire....

4 points up on Arsenal but played 1 extra game. City 10 back, Chelsea 12, Totts 13.

quite the schedule ahead with trips to Anfiel and Emirates still to come, and the rematch at Old Trafford with Chelsea.

Mar 6 8:30 AM ET Liverpool v Manchester United Anfield Premier League

Mar 12 12:15 PM ET Manchester United v Leyton Orient/ Arsenal Old Trafford FA Cup (Quarter-finals)

Mar 15 3:45 PM ET Manchester United v Marseille Old Trafford Champions League (Round of 16)

Mar 19 11:00 AM ET Manchester United v Bolton Wanderers Old Trafford Premier League

Apr 2 7:45 AM ET West Ham United v Manchester United Upton Park Premier League

Apr 9 10:00 AM ET Manchester United v Fulham Old Trafford Premier League

Apr 16 7:45 AM ET Newcastle United v Manchester United St James' Park Premier League

Apr 23 7:45 AM ET Manchester United v Everton Old Trafford Premier League

May 1 9:05 AM ET Arsenal v Manchester United Emirates Stadium Premier League

May 7 10:00 AM ET Manchester United v Chelsea Old Trafford Premier League

May 14 10:00 AM ET Blackburn Rovers v Manchester United Ewood Park Premier League

May 22 11:00 AM ET Manchester United v Blackpool Old Trafford Premier League

 

[El Floppo]

thanks. I didnt see it just the ESPN game center and Eurosport iPhone app commentaries i was reading.

Its too bad for Smalling since he has done a admirable job filling in for Rio. Need Rio back for Sunday to pair up with Smalling with Vidic out.

Chance Vidic appeals and the 1 game ban is lifted?!?! Now wouldnt THAT just fan the fire....

4 points up on Arsenal but played 1 extra game. City 10 back, Chelsea 12, Totts 13.

quite the schedule ahead with trips to Anfiel and Emirates still to come, and the rematch at Old Trafford with Chelsea.

Mar 6 8:30 AM ET Liverpool v Manchester United Anfield Premier League

Mar 12 12:15 PM ET Manchester United v Leyton Orient/ Arsenal Old Trafford FA Cup (Quarter-finals)

Mar 15 3:45 PM ET Manchester United v Marseille Old Trafford Champions League (Round of 16)

Mar 19 11:00 AM ET Manchester United v Bolton Wanderers Old Trafford Premier League

Apr 2 7:45 AM ET West Ham United v Manchester United Upton Park Premier League

Apr 9 10:00 AM ET Manchester United v Fulham Old Trafford Premier League

Apr 16 7:45 AM ET Newcastle United v Manchester United St James' Park Premier League

Apr 23 7:45 AM ET Manchester United v Everton Old Trafford Premier League

May 1 9:05 AM ET Arsenal v Manchester United Emirates Stadium Premier League

May 7 10:00 AM ET Manchester United v Chelsea Old Trafford Premier League

May 14 10:00 AM ET Blackburn Rovers v Manchester United Ewood Park Premier League

May 22 11:00 AM ET Manchester United v Blackpool Old Trafford Premier League

(edit- hit reply by mistake before typing anything)I agree about Smalling. His first appearances earlier in the year, he looked completely outclassed- but he's been playing very well like you say. Nothing he could've done about that play (you'll see it later- but it's a bang-bang play where the ball ended up megging him on a rebound in tight and Jerkoff ran into/through his leg to retrieve it going down (fairly, IMO- no dive), so no real need to feel badly for him- I doubt he'll catch much flack from fans or press for it, even if I'm sure he feels like #### about it.

No way Vidic gets a reprieve. He took a yellow for the team in the first half (intenionally taking down Essien who beat him cleanly at the top of the box) and then kind of lost his composure taking down Gonzales (and wow- he's finally starting to look like a starter for Chelsea the last handful of games) by grabbing a handful of shirt, just outside the box. Both were very worthy of yellows.

Again, I think the only thing that happens afterwards is that Luiz might see some kind of... something... for the Rooney take-down. Seems to me he was roughing up Chicharito and Rooney earlier in the game too... but I could be wrong. They both went down a couple of times off the ball in his general vicinity.

 

[jonessed]

Good game, fair result. Chelsea were the better side.

Vidic misses the next game at Anfield which is quite a blow for United.

and it went from bad to worse.... Hope Rio gets back in time.chelsea were better in the 2nd half. I didnt see it but the commentary states: David Luiz was impressive, but perhaps could have been sent off, before Lampard got all three points.

agree or disagree? Would have been his 2nd yellow and changes the game at that point.

It was an obvious yellow. He should've been sent off. A bit of karma for Rooney's antics last game, I guess.The penalty was pretty weak too. Nothing Smalling could do, really. Jerkoff just ran into him.

He ran into his outstretched leg. There was very little Smalling could have done, but there really is no debate about whether or not he tripped him.

He certainly didn't trip him intentionally. Like I said, the guy just ran into him.

Whether it was intentional or not is irrelevant. Smalling's leg was between Zhirkov and the ball and Zhirkov ran into it. That's all that really matters. It was unfortunate for Smalling that he was caught flat-footed.It's like some of the handballs that are called in the box. Sometimes there is very little the defender can do, but if the arm isn't near the body it's going to get called.

Keep your arms in and don't get caught flat-footed with your leg out.

Luiz absolutely should've been sent off for that off-the-ball trip on Rooney. Play would/should've stopped at that point and so maybe the play building up immediately after that lead to the PK wouldn't have happened... maybe. Luiz might face some kind of punishment from the FA for that... maybe. And before the "Rooney elbow etc" people chime in- the ref here clearly did NOT see this play, so in this case the FA has room to issue santions after the fact. I thought Luiz played very, very well- but seemed like there were a number of challenges by him that could've been yellow worthy... as if he's over-compensating to the EPL by just flying into challenges.

Seemed a pretty even game to me- edge to Chelsea more on desire than quality of play. Chelsea did have the better chances though (that save by VdS in the first half was unreal) and deserved the 3 points, based on those and their will to win.

And as a neutral, this was the best possible result to open the EPL title race.

It was a missed foul, but it's not going to rise up to a violent conduct charge. Does the FA really go back and review missed yellow cards?

 

[El Floppo]

Good game, fair result. Chelsea were the better side.

Vidic misses the next game at Anfield which is quite a blow for United.

and it went from bad to worse.... Hope Rio gets back in time.chelsea were better in the 2nd half. I didnt see it but the commentary states: David Luiz was impressive, but perhaps could have been sent off, before Lampard got all three points.

agree or disagree? Would have been his 2nd yellow and changes the game at that point.

It was an obvious yellow. He should've been sent off. A bit of karma for Rooney's antics last game, I guess.The penalty was pretty weak too. Nothing Smalling could do, really. Jerkoff just ran into him.

He ran into his outstretched leg. There was very little Smalling could have done, but there really is no debate about whether or not he tripped him.

He certainly didn't trip him intentionally. Like I said, the guy just ran into him.

Whether it was intentional or not is irrelevant. Smalling's leg was between Zhirkov and the ball and Zhirkov ran into it. That's all that really matters. It was unfortunate for Smalling that he was caught flat-footed.It's like some of the handballs that are called in the box. Sometimes there is very little the defender can do, but if the arm isn't near the body it's going to get called.

Keep your arms in and don't get caught flat-footed with your leg out.

Luiz absolutely should've been sent off for that off-the-ball trip on Rooney. Play would/should've stopped at that point and so maybe the play building up immediately after that lead to the PK wouldn't have happened... maybe. Luiz might face some kind of punishment from the FA for that... maybe. And before the "Rooney elbow etc" people chime in- the ref here clearly did NOT see this play, so in this case the FA has room to issue santions after the fact. I thought Luiz played very, very well- but seemed like there were a number of challenges by him that could've been yellow worthy... as if he's over-compensating to the EPL by just flying into challenges.

Seemed a pretty even game to me- edge to Chelsea more on desire than quality of play. Chelsea did have the better chances though (that save by VdS in the first half was unreal) and deserved the 3 points, based on those and their will to win.

And as a neutral, this was the best possible result to open the EPL title race.

It was a missed foul, but it's not going to rise up to a violent conduct charge. Does the FA really go back and review missed yellow cards?

Dunno. But I thought incidents off the ball were reviewed... not sure what they do with it if they find fault though. Fine? Suspension?

Same thought- I keep saying this, but I really wish there was a commission to review dives and fine the #### out of offenders.

 

[Christo]

Luiz absolutely should've been sent off for that off-the-ball trip on Rooney. Play would/should've stopped at that point and so maybe the play building up immediately after that lead to the PK wouldn't have happened... maybe. Luiz might face some kind of punishment from the FA for that... maybe. And before the "Rooney elbow etc" people chime in- the ref here clearly did NOT see this play, so in this case the FA has room to issue santions after the fact. I thought Luiz played very, very well- but seemed like there were a number of challenges by him that could've been yellow worthy... as if he's over-compensating to the EPL by just flying into challenges.

Right, this is not the same scenario. Replays showed the ref was looking away from the foul, play did not stop and the ref never addressed it with Luis.Luis certainly has the chops to be successful in the EPL. Unlike Chicharito, who seemed to disappear in his first big battle, Luis overcompensated. But both ManU and Chelsea have to be happy to have those guys on their roster for the future.

 

[TLEF316]

Luis is obviously a terrific talent. But he made a few pretty dirty tackles today.

Some unnecessary late knees for sure. The last one on Rooney was blatant.

Wide open again.

 

[NewlyRetired]

This weeks episode of what in hell are the Cosmos doing

 

[jonessed]

Ferdinand has been confirmed out for United's visit to Anfield. No Vidic and Ferdinand absolutely decimates United's defense. Liverpool is definitely going to be smelling the blood in the water.

This title race just got a lot more interesting.

 

[Mjolnirs]

DFB Pokal Semi-Final tomorrow between Bayern and Schalke. Looks like it will be on espn3.com at 2:30.

 

[El Floppo]

This weeks episode of what in hell are the Cosmos doing

I'm as on-board the Cosmos cool-aid train as anybody, but wtf exactly are they promoting? Check out our cool logo!

I still want a job with them though... how do I translate being a useless, unemployed architect into something worthwhile, dammit?!

 

[El Floppo]

Anybody else watching any of the Copa Libertadores?

I flat out love this Cup- every team has suspect defense, rabid fans, and goes balls out the last 15 minutes of every game to either: win the game, tie the game, regain some pride after getting blown, etc. Things are always chippy as all hell, and there's a lot of wide-open offense (given the terrible defense).

 

[Christo]

This weeks episode of what in hell are the Cosmos doing

I'm as on-board the Cosmos cool-aid train as anybody, but wtf exactly are they promoting? Check out our cool logo!

I still want a job with them though... how do I translate being a useless, unemployed architect into something worthwhile, dammit?!

In your spare time design a stadium and go pitch it to them. With these crazy bastards it better be a pretty extravagant stadium.

 

[B Maverick]

Luiz absolutely should've been sent off for that off-the-ball trip on Rooney. Play would/should've stopped at that point and so maybe the play building up immediately after that lead to the PK wouldn't have happened... maybe. Luiz might face some kind of punishment from the FA for that... maybe. And before the "Rooney elbow etc" people chime in- the ref here clearly did NOT see this play, so in this case the FA has room to issue santions after the fact. I thought Luiz played very, very well- but seemed like there were a number of challenges by him that could've been yellow worthy... as if he's over-compensating to the EPL by just flying into challenges.

Right, this is not the same scenario. Replays showed the ref was looking away from the foul, play did not stop and the ref never addressed it with Luis.Luis certainly has the chops to be successful in the EPL. Unlike Chicharito, who seemed to disappear in his first big battle, Luis overcompensated. But both ManU and Chelsea have to be happy to have those guys on their roster for the future.

I disagree with your assement of Chicharito. His movement, quickness and scoring will translate well to ManU. And he has proven his worth with some fantastic goals. He is very young and has the desire to grow as a player. I think he has a great future in the EPL.

Ferdinand has been confirmed out for United's visit to Anfield. No Vidic and Ferdinand absolutely decimates United's defense. Liverpool is definitely going to be smelling the blood in the water.

This title race just got a lot more interesting.

guess Liverpool will be seeing Rafael, Smalling, Oshea and Evra. Not the scariest back 4, unless you are a United Fan, then you are scared. Arsenal is salivating at a shot at the EPL title. United better get their away form in gear or they will be looking up at Arsenal very soon.

 

[Steve Tasker]

Cool ESPN article about Ryan Giggs.

 

[The Z Machine]

How do I translate being a useless, unemployed architect into something worthwhile, dammit?!

Stadium designs for their new "SSS" in Brooklyn?Or at least the interior space for their new clubhouse. Framed photos of all those past Cosmos greats on the walls.Are you still unemployed? I'm sorry to hear that if it's true.

 

[B Maverick]

Cool ESPN article about Ryan Giggs.

 

[jonessed]

Luiz absolutely should've been sent off for that off-the-ball trip on Rooney. Play would/should've stopped at that point and so maybe the play building up immediately after that lead to the PK wouldn't have happened... maybe. Luiz might face some kind of punishment from the FA for that... maybe. And before the "Rooney elbow etc" people chime in- the ref here clearly did NOT see this play, so in this case the FA has room to issue santions after the fact. I thought Luiz played very, very well- but seemed like there were a number of challenges by him that could've been yellow worthy... as if he's over-compensating to the EPL by just flying into challenges.

Right, this is not the same scenario. Replays showed the ref was looking away from the foul, play did not stop and the ref never addressed it with Luis.Luis certainly has the chops to be successful in the EPL. Unlike Chicharito, who seemed to disappear in his first big battle, Luis overcompensated. But both ManU and Chelsea have to be happy to have those guys on their roster for the future.

I disagree with your assement of Chicharito. His movement, quickness and scoring will translate well to ManU. And he has proven his worth with some fantastic goals. He is very young and has the desire to grow as a player. I think he has a great future in the EPL.

Ferdinand has been confirmed out for United's visit to Anfield. No Vidic and Ferdinand absolutely decimates United's defense. Liverpool is definitely going to be smelling the blood in the water.

This title race just got a lot more interesting.

guess Liverpool will be seeing Rafael, Smalling, Oshea and Evra. Not the scariest back 4, unless you are a United Fan, then you are scared. Arsenal is salivating at a shot at the EPL title. United better get their away form in gear or they will be looking up at Arsenal very soon.

The center halves I believe will be Brown and Smalling. Rafael is likely the odd man out as O'Shea has played pretty well lately.Smalling has also played well, but without a leader like Vidic or Ferdinand paried with him I imagine he will struggle (as will Brown).

It should be a pretty open game.

 

[B Maverick]

Luiz absolutely should've been sent off for that off-the-ball trip on Rooney. Play would/should've stopped at that point and so maybe the play building up immediately after that lead to the PK wouldn't have happened... maybe. Luiz might face some kind of punishment from the FA for that... maybe. And before the "Rooney elbow etc" people chime in- the ref here clearly did NOT see this play, so in this case the FA has room to issue santions after the fact. I thought Luiz played very, very well- but seemed like there were a number of challenges by him that could've been yellow worthy... as if he's over-compensating to the EPL by just flying into challenges.

Right, this is not the same scenario. Replays showed the ref was looking away from the foul, play did not stop and the ref never addressed it with Luis.Luis certainly has the chops to be successful in the EPL. Unlike Chicharito, who seemed to disappear in his first big battle, Luis overcompensated. But both ManU and Chelsea have to be happy to have those guys on their roster for the future.

I disagree with your assement of Chicharito. His movement, quickness and scoring will translate well to ManU. And he has proven his worth with some fantastic goals. He is very young and has the desire to grow as a player. I think he has a great future in the EPL.

Ferdinand has been confirmed out for United's visit to Anfield. No Vidic and Ferdinand absolutely decimates United's defense. Liverpool is definitely going to be smelling the blood in the water.

This title race just got a lot more interesting.

guess Liverpool will be seeing Rafael, Smalling, Oshea and Evra. Not the scariest back 4, unless you are a United Fan, then you are scared. Arsenal is salivating at a shot at the EPL title. United better get their away form in gear or they will be looking up at Arsenal very soon.

The center halves I believe will be Brown and Smalling. Rafael is likely the odd man out as O'Shea has played pretty well lately.Smalling has also played well, but without a leader like Vidic or Ferdinand paried with him I imagine he will struggle (as will Brown).

It should be a pretty open game.

United better NOT go with Brown. Brown is absolute crap. If Rafael is healthy he is the starting right back and Oshea moved inside with Smalling. Put Brown in there and you can kiss ALL hope goodbye. And I agree, w/o Rio or Vidic, it will be tough for anyone.On a different note, City and Arsenal have both scored early in their FA cup replays. Lots of time to go...

 

[brewer]

Luiz absolutely should've been sent off for that off-the-ball trip on Rooney. Play would/should've stopped at that point and so maybe the play building up immediately after that lead to the PK wouldn't have happened... maybe. Luiz might face some kind of punishment from the FA for that... maybe. And before the "Rooney elbow etc" people chime in- the ref here clearly did NOT see this play, so in this case the FA has room to issue santions after the fact. I thought Luiz played very, very well- but seemed like there were a number of challenges by him that could've been yellow worthy... as if he's over-compensating to the EPL by just flying into challenges.

Right, this is not the same scenario. Replays showed the ref was looking away from the foul, play did not stop and the ref never addressed it with Luis.Luis certainly has the chops to be successful in the EPL. Unlike Chicharito, who seemed to disappear in his first big battle, Luis overcompensated. But both ManU and Chelsea have to be happy to have those guys on their roster for the future.

I disagree with your assement of Chicharito. His movement, quickness and scoring will translate well to ManU. And he has proven his worth with some fantastic goals. He is very young and has the desire to grow as a player. I think he has a great future in the EPL.

Ferdinand has been confirmed out for United's visit to Anfield. No Vidic and Ferdinand absolutely decimates United's defense. Liverpool is definitely going to be smelling the blood in the water.

This title race just got a lot more interesting.

guess Liverpool will be seeing Rafael, Smalling, Oshea and Evra. Not the scariest back 4, unless you are a United Fan, then you are scared. Arsenal is salivating at a shot at the EPL title. United better get their away form in gear or they will be looking up at Arsenal very soon.

The center halves I believe will be Brown and Smalling. Rafael is likely the odd man out as O'Shea has played pretty well lately.Smalling has also played well, but without a leader like Vidic or Ferdinand paried with him I imagine he will struggle (as will Brown).

It should be a pretty open game.

United better NOT go with Brown. Brown is absolute crap. If Rafael is healthy he is the starting right back and Oshea moved inside with Smalling. Put Brown in there and you can kiss ALL hope goodbye. And I agree, w/o Rio or Vidic, it will be tough for anyone.On a different note, City and Arsenal have both scored early in their FA cup replays. Lots of time to go...

I hate when I forget to avoid this thread on match day.

 

[Txns8]

Anyone watching the City game? I see Bradley in the starting lineup. How does he look so far?

 

[Christo]

Luiz absolutely should've been sent off for that off-the-ball trip on Rooney. Play would/should've stopped at that point and so maybe the play building up immediately after that lead to the PK wouldn't have happened... maybe. Luiz might face some kind of punishment from the FA for that... maybe. And before the "Rooney elbow etc" people chime in- the ref here clearly did NOT see this play, so in this case the FA has room to issue santions after the fact. I thought Luiz played very, very well- but seemed like there were a number of challenges by him that could've been yellow worthy... as if he's over-compensating to the EPL by just flying into challenges.

Right, this is not the same scenario. Replays showed the ref was looking away from the foul, play did not stop and the ref never addressed it with Luis.Luis certainly has the chops to be successful in the EPL. Unlike Chicharito, who seemed to disappear in his first big battle, Luis overcompensated. But both ManU and Chelsea have to be happy to have those guys on their roster for the future.

I disagree with your assement of Chicharito. His movement, quickness and scoring will translate well to ManU. And he has proven his worth with some fantastic goals. He is very young and has the desire to grow as a player. I think he has a great future in the EPL.

How are we in disagreement?

 

[El Floppo]

Luiz absolutely should've been sent off for that off-the-ball trip on Rooney. Play would/should've stopped at that point and so maybe the play building up immediately after that lead to the PK wouldn't have happened... maybe. Luiz might face some kind of punishment from the FA for that... maybe. And before the "Rooney elbow etc" people chime in- the ref here clearly did NOT see this play, so in this case the FA has room to issue santions after the fact. I thought Luiz played very, very well- but seemed like there were a number of challenges by him that could've been yellow worthy... as if he's over-compensating to the EPL by just flying into challenges.

Right, this is not the same scenario. Replays showed the ref was looking away from the foul, play did not stop and the ref never addressed it with Luis.Luis certainly has the chops to be successful in the EPL. Unlike Chicharito, who seemed to disappear in his first big battle, Luis overcompensated. But both ManU and Chelsea have to be happy to have those guys on their roster for the future.

I disagree with your assement of Chicharito. His movement, quickness and scoring will translate well to ManU. And he has proven his worth with some fantastic goals. He is very young and has the desire to grow as a player. I think he has a great future in the EPL.

How are we in disagreement?

Pretty sure that's a stock response to most of your posts gb.

 

[Steve Tasker]

250+ first-team appearances, and just 1 home goal from Gael Clichy

 

[El Floppo]

250+ first-team appearances, and just 1 home goal from Gael Clichy

Hey Steve- I thought Aaron Ramsey was called back from Cardiff loan to play today. Any idea what happened? btw- great to hear he's getting his legs back; that injury was... I'm not sure how he and Wilshire would work together, as they seem like really similar players- but wow, what an amazing young, somewhat homegrown tandem to have.

 

[derek245583]

Anyone watching the City game? I see Bradley in the starting lineup. How does he look so far?

He was terrible I thought, but Aston Villa didnt do much of anything right so its not on him.

 

[Mjolnirs]

DFB Pokal Semi-Final tomorrow between Bayern and Schalke. Looks like it will be on espn3.com at 2:30.

:X Bayern laid an egg today and lost 1-0. The only hardware they can still get this season is the Champions League and there's plenty of soccer left to get to that.

 

[Sebowski]

Went and saw the Galaxy vs. the Tijuana Cholos tonight at a local college stadium. 6,100 people. Bet they could only fit another 100. Real small place. real great atmosphere. I was close enough to David Beckham to violate my restraining order

I wasn;t expecting Beckham, Donovan, or Angel to play, but they all started, and all played at least 60 minutes with Donovan going all 90 and penalties. Got Donovan's penalty recorded on my phone. If someone tells me how to post video in a thread I'll post it. Sat just on the inside on the Galaxy half for the first half at about the 6th row, then in the Beer Garden at the Galaxy end for the 2nnd half. Was right on top of Donovan for his go-ahead. Looked like a BS penalty to give Tijuana the tie, but was too far away to really tell. Overall, a great time and made me wish we had more soccer in San Diego. Crowd was great. Very lively for both sides. More for Tijuana as we are closer to Tijuana than LA. If they put a team here with some Mexican stars they could have a hit.

Putting aside the fun, the Galaxy looked bad. Angel was irrelavant except two good touches. Beckham was trying, but no one was on the same page. Donovan was hustling and looked good, but again, no help from the other players. So many bad touches.... Was hard to convert me away from an MLS hater with what I saw tonight. Forgot his name, but #30 (cordoza?) had spurts of looking pretty good, with spurts of terrible flops. Should have gotten carded at least three times for dives.

Like I said though, good times. Great place to see a game. Right on top of the action. Great crowd.

 

[NewlyRetired]

Went and saw the Galaxy vs. the Tijuana Cholos tonight at a local college stadium. 6,100 people. Bet they could only fit another 100. Real small place. real great atmosphere. I was close enough to David Beckham to violate my restraining order

I wasn;t expecting Beckham, Donovan, or Angel to play, but they all started, and all played at least 60 minutes with Donovan going all 90 and penalties. Got Donovan's penalty recorded on my phone. If someone tells me how to post video in a thread I'll post it. Sat just on the inside on the Galaxy half for the first half at about the 6th row, then in the Beer Garden at the Galaxy end for the 2nnd half. Was right on top of Donovan for his go-ahead. Looked like a BS penalty to give Tijuana the tie, but was too far away to really tell. Overall, a great time and made me wish we had more soccer in San Diego. Crowd was great. Very lively for both sides. More for Tijuana as we are closer to Tijuana than LA. If they put a team here with some Mexican stars they could have a hit.

Putting aside the fun, the Galaxy looked bad. Angel was irrelavant except two good touches. Beckham was trying, but no one was on the same page. Donovan was hustling and looked good, but again, no help from the other players. So many bad touches.... Was hard to convert me away from an MLS hater with what I saw tonight. Forgot his name, but #30 (cordoza?) had spurts of looking pretty good, with spurts of terrible flops. Should have gotten carded at least three times for dives.

Like I said though, good times. Great place to see a game. Right on top of the action. Great crowd.

That is a pretty good crowd for a pre season game. Hell, back in the day, MLS would get that type crowd for a random regular season game on a Wednesday night.I would not read too much in the quality though. It would be liking judging the EPL teams that come over in the summer that routinely look like relative crap because its preseason for them.

Was the kids name Corona that you liked? This article said he played great. Interestingly he is from San Diego and played at San Diego State. Galaxy eyes local talent in S.D. tie/loss {edit never mind, I just realized you were talking about the Galaxy rookie Paolo Cardozo}

Thanks for the report, sounded like a fun night. Sitting here in NE with a ton of snow on the ground and it being 7 out, I can't even imagine watching a game live right now

 

[NewlyRetired]

Interesting news/rumor....

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

US Soccer president Sunil Gulati has contacted former Chilean national team coach Marcelo Bielsa about taking a position as technical director with the US program, according to a report on TandilDiario.com.

The report claims that Argentine Bielsa (pictured above) would oversee all aspects of the US men’s national team program, including youth development. Bob Bradley would remain in charge of the senior national team.

When contacted by MLSsoccer.com, a spokesperson for US Soccer declined to say whether or not the federation had been in touch with Bielsa.

“We have always stated that adding a technical director, or a similar position, on the men’s side is something we are exploring,” US Soccer spokesperson Neil Buethe said, “but we have not made any decisions at this point.”

The eccentric Bielsa, known for his attacking tactics and unusual style, led Chile to the second round of the World Cup, where they lost to Brazil. He resigned after the tournament due to a feud with the Chilean Football Federation but returned to helm the South American side when they played the US to a 1-1 draw at the Home Depot Center in January.

Bielsa permanently quit his post on Feb. 4.

The article claims Bielsa would receive around $3 million per year. Qatar and Saudi Arabia are also reportedly interested in securing Bielsa's services and are thought to have made even more lucrative offers to the coach.

 

[NewlyRetired]

RSL beat the Crew 4-1 to advance to the CCC Semis. RSL are the last MLS team left.

Monterray vs Cruz Azul is the first semi that is set.

RSL will take on the winner of Saprissa-Olimpia. Saprissa holds a 1-0 lead after the first leg. Second leg is home for Saprissa.

 

[El Floppo]

RSL beat the Crew 4-1 to advance to the CCC Semis. RSL are the last MLS team left.Monterray vs Cruz Azul is the first semi that is set.RSL will take on the winner of Saprissa-Olimpia. Saprissa holds a 1-0 lead after the first leg. Second leg is home for Saprissa.

RSL- at least last year- are a team with enough quality to maybe compete in this thing; I'm glad they went through over the Crew (didn't look good last year), even though MLS will always be up against it in the CL due to our schedule.

 

[El Floppo]

Interesting news/rumor....

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

US Soccer president Sunil Gulati has contacted former Chilean national team coach Marcelo Bielsa about taking a position as technical director with the US program, according to a report on TandilDiario.com.

The report claims that Argentine Bielsa (pictured above) would oversee all aspects of the US men’s national team program, including youth development. Bob Bradley would remain in charge of the senior national team.

When contacted by MLSsoccer.com, a spokesperson for US Soccer declined to say whether or not the federation had been in touch with Bielsa.

“We have always stated that adding a technical director, or a similar position, on the men’s side is something we are exploring,” US Soccer spokesperson Neil Buethe said, “but we have not made any decisions at this point.”

The eccentric Bielsa, known for his attacking tactics and unusual style, led Chile to the second round of the World Cup, where they lost to Brazil. He resigned after the tournament due to a feud with the Chilean Football Federation but returned to helm the South American side when they played the US to a 1-1 draw at the Home Depot Center in January.

Bielsa permanently quit his post on Feb. 4.

The article claims Bielsa would receive around $3 million per year. Qatar and Saudi Arabia are also reportedly interested in securing Bielsa's services and are thought to have made even more lucrative offers to the coach.

wtf?! no way he's going to make multiple times more than BB.

 

[El Floppo]

Went and saw the Galaxy vs. the Tijuana Cholos tonight at a local college stadium. 6,100 people. Bet they could only fit another 100. Real small place. real great atmosphere. I was close enough to David Beckham to violate my restraining order

I wasn;t expecting Beckham, Donovan, or Angel to play, but they all started, and all played at least 60 minutes with Donovan going all 90 and penalties. Got Donovan's penalty recorded on my phone. If someone tells me how to post video in a thread I'll post it. Sat just on the inside on the Galaxy half for the first half at about the 6th row, then in the Beer Garden at the Galaxy end for the 2nnd half. Was right on top of Donovan for his go-ahead. Looked like a BS penalty to give Tijuana the tie, but was too far away to really tell. Overall, a great time and made me wish we had more soccer in San Diego. Crowd was great. Very lively for both sides. More for Tijuana as we are closer to Tijuana than LA. If they put a team here with some Mexican stars they could have a hit.

Putting aside the fun, the Galaxy looked bad. Angel was irrelavant except two good touches. Beckham was trying, but no one was on the same page. Donovan was hustling and looked good, but again, no help from the other players. So many bad touches.... Was hard to convert me away from an MLS hater with what I saw tonight. Forgot his name, but #30 (cordoza?) had spurts of looking pretty good, with spurts of terrible flops. Should have gotten carded at least three times for dives.

Like I said though, good times. Great place to see a game. Right on top of the action. Great crowd.

That is a pretty good crowd for a pre season game. Hell, back in the day, MLS would get that type crowd for a random regular season game on a Wednesday night.I would not read too much in the quality though. It would be liking judging the EPL teams that come over in the summer that routinely look like relative crap because its preseason for them.

Was the kids name Corona that you liked? This article said he played great. Interestingly he is from San Diego and played at San Diego State. Galaxy eyes local talent in S.D. tie/loss {edit never mind, I just realized you were talking about the Galaxy rookie Paolo Cardozo}

Thanks for the report, sounded like a fun night. Sitting here in NE with a ton of snow on the ground and it being 7 out, I can't even imagine watching a game live right now

Definitely sounds like a good time.

 

[NewlyRetired]

RSL beat the Crew 4-1 to advance to the CCC Semis. RSL are the last MLS team left.Monterray vs Cruz Azul is the first semi that is set.RSL will take on the winner of Saprissa-Olimpia. Saprissa holds a 1-0 lead after the first leg. Second leg is home for Saprissa.

RSL- at least last year- are a team with enough quality to maybe compete in this thing; I'm glad they went through over the Crew (didn't look good last year), even though MLS will always be up against it in the CL due to our schedule.

yeah this seems to be general consensus from the media who cover the league as well.This will be good for the RSL fans as well. Barely 2000 people made it out to see the game in Columbus (on a horrible night to be fair), but RSL drew around 16.5k to the game in Salt Lake.So what is the over/under on how many PK's will be called against RSL when they go into Costa Rica or Honduras for the away leg?

 

[B Maverick]

Luiz absolutely should've been sent off for that off-the-ball trip on Rooney. Play would/should've stopped at that point and so maybe the play building up immediately after that lead to the PK wouldn't have happened... maybe. Luiz might face some kind of punishment from the FA for that... maybe. And before the "Rooney elbow etc" people chime in- the ref here clearly did NOT see this play, so in this case the FA has room to issue santions after the fact. I thought Luiz played very, very well- but seemed like there were a number of challenges by him that could've been yellow worthy... as if he's over-compensating to the EPL by just flying into challenges.

Right, this is not the same scenario. Replays showed the ref was looking away from the foul, play did not stop and the ref never addressed it with Luis.Luis certainly has the chops to be successful in the EPL. Unlike Chicharito, who seemed to disappear in his first big battle, Luis overcompensated. But both ManU and Chelsea have to be happy to have those guys on their roster for the future.

I disagree with your assement of Chicharito. His movement, quickness and scoring will translate well to ManU. And he has proven his worth with some fantastic goals. He is very young and has the desire to grow as a player. I think he has a great future in the EPL.

How are we in disagreement?

Maybe i misread your statements thinking you were saying Chicharito doesnt have the chops to be successful in the EPL? SAF charged with improper conduct by the FA for comments about the REF. Post game said he knew they were in trouble when Atkinson was announced as the ref for the game. Basically said this ref has no business in such a high profile game. Obviously this was over his belief that Luiz should have been sent off and the PK was a bad call.

In other news, Carrick has extended his contract with United. Loved him last year, regressed this year. Hope he turns it around next year. Going to need him with Scholes possible moving to a bench role or retirement.

 

[NewlyRetired]

Looks like the Quakes have made some good progress on the hope for a new stadium.

Picture of new San Jose stadium design

The demolition ceremony

 

[NewlyRetired]

More stadium stuff. What Portland was able to do with the old dilapidated baseball field was fantastic. Shame about the surface as this would have been an incredible site for a qualifier some day.

Nice video of the mayor taking a tour of the stadium as it nears completion

http://theallocationorder.com/2011/stadium-pr0n-portland-timbers-pge-park-looking-fly/

 

[El Floppo]

Per NYTimes. lol at the fanfare for Canada.

March 3, 2011, 11:20 AMNo Change in World Cup AllocationsBy ANDREW DASFIFA will keep the same allocations for each continent at the 2014 World Cup. There had been speculation that heavy lobbying would lead to a change in the allotments, but the prospect of rewarding one confederation at the expense of another was rejected in favor of the status quo.Europe will still have the most places (13), followed by Africa (5), Asia (4½), South America (4½), Concacaf (3½) and Oceania (½). The only change is that the four teams who qualify for playoffs — one each from Concacaf, Asia, Oceania and South America — will be matched in a draw, instead of in fixed pairings of continents as in the past.With Brazil already in as the host country, that means South America could have as many as six teams in the event — but only if its fifth-place qualifier wins a playoff. In the last cycle, Africa was guaranteed its six spots — five through qualifying and another for South Africa, the host country.In another decision, Canada was awarded the 2015 Women’s World Cup. But then it didn’t have any competition for the tournament after Zimbabwe, the only other bidder, withdrew.

 

[El Floppo]

March 3, 2011, 8:00 PMFor Yanks Abroad, More Midfield MadnessBy JOHN GODFREYSaturday’s German Bundesliga match between third-place Hannover and fourth-place Bayern Munich should have huge implications as the teams battle for a Champions League slot.Sunday’s Manchester United-Liverpool match in the English Premier League will showcase one of the biggest rivalries in Europe.And the rosters for this weekend’s Juventus-A.C. Milan game in Serie A reads like a Who’s Who of Italian soccer royalty.For a certain breed of American soccer fan, however, the two most compelling matches this weekend will feature four midtable English teams that are not cross-town rivals, have given up any trophy ambitions and are for the most part safe from relegation worries.Bolton-Aston Villa and Fulham-Blackburn may lack the sparkle of many matches being played in Europe this weekend, but these games have something you will not find anywhere: four prominent American midfielders going head to head against their fellow countrymen.Seventh-place Bolton plays host to 12th-place Aston Villa at the Reebok Stadium on Saturday (10 a.m. Eastern; delayed broadcast on Fox Soccer Channel, 5 p.m.), which means that Bolton’s attacking central midfielder Stuart Holden might have to navigate his way past Villa’s central defensive midfielder Michael Bradley. The two Americans play side by side for the United States national team, but they will be doing everything they can to dominate one another on Saturday.If Bradley makes it onto the field, that is. Since transferring from Borussia Mönchengladbach in January, the 23-year-old midfielder has struggled to secure playing time in Villa’s crowded midfield. Last week against Blackburn, he watched from the bench as Jermaine Jones — another rival for playing time with the American team — played a strong 90 minutes for Rovers. There is a reasonably strong chance that Bradley will be a spectator again this weekend.Bradley did get the start in Wednesday’s F.A. Cup match against Manchester City, but failed to make a positive impression in a disjointed 3-0 loss. In Bradley’s defense, Villa Coach Gérard Houllier selected a squad full of second-team players who seemed both rusty and overmatched against the likes of David Silva, Mario Balotelli and Pablo Zabaleta. Bradley did not embarrass himself in the match, but neither did he make the sort of statement that would compel his coach to give him more playing time.Holden, on the other hand, has made a strong case for playing time throughout his 2010-11 campaign. The 25-year-old has started 24 times for Bolton and plays a crucial box-to-box midfield role for Wanderers. Although he has scored only two goals this season, the official English Premier League site ranks Holden as the 50th best player in the league, ahead of stalwarts such as Ashley Young, Fernando Torres and Steven Gerrard. Holden also has been credited with 109 tackles this season, making him the top tackler in the league.Watching the fleet-footed Holden line up against the tenacious Bradley in the best league in the world is precisely the sort of matchup that excites ardent American supporters. Given Bradley’s tenuous situation, however, it remains to be seen if this mano-a-mano confrontation materializes.In London, however, you can bank on watching Fulham’s Clint Dempsey square off against Blackburn’s Jermaine Jones (10 a.m. Eastern, live on Foxsoccer.tv; tape delay at 12 p.m. on Fox Soccer Plus). Both midfielders have established themselves as starters for their squads, and since Dempsey focuses on offense while Jones plays a mostly holding role, there is bound to be a few tasty clashes along the way.Neither American is known for being bashful. During his time in the Bundesliga, Jones built a reputation for playing with a feisty edge bordering on nastiness, and he has not lost any of his venom since arriving in England. The 29-year-old is averaging 2½ fouls committed per game so far at Blackburn.Though Dempsey frequently sports a black eye, the highly technical midfielder relies more on his skill than his muscles. That said, he has shown throughout his career that he relishes a physical challenge as much as anyone. Dempsey has committed 42 fouls this season and has been fouled 63 times. The former statistic ranks him 12th in the league; the latter puts him third over all.Saturday’s match, which comes three days before Dempsey’s 28th birthday, will not make or break either team’s season. Fulham and Blackburn both have 32 points, placing them 13th and 14th in the league (Fulham is ahead on goal differential). But a win against a team so close in the standings would almost certainly keep either team out of any relegation scrap. Expect both teams to push for a win, and expect both team’s American midfielders to be at the heart of the action.Will you be watching either match? Do you think these two games will have any influence on Bob Bradley’s lineup decisions for the upcoming friendlies against Argentina and Paraguay?

 

[NewlyRetired]

Per NYTimes. lol at the fanfare for Canada.

March 3, 2011, 11:20 AMNo Change in World Cup AllocationsBy ANDREW DASFIFA will keep the same allocations for each continent at the 2014 World Cup. There had been speculation that heavy lobbying would lead to a change in the allotments, but the prospect of rewarding one confederation at the expense of another was rejected in favor of the status quo.Europe will still have the most places (13), followed by Africa (5), Asia (4½), South America (4½), Concacaf (3½) and Oceania (½). The only change is that the four teams who qualify for playoffs — one each from Concacaf, Asia, Oceania and South America — will be matched in a draw, instead of in fixed pairings of continents as in the past.With Brazil already in as the host country, that means South America could have as many as six teams in the event — but only if its fifth-place qualifier wins a playoff. In the last cycle, Africa was guaranteed its six spots — five through qualifying and another for South Africa, the host country.

I am ok with this. I like the draw with the 4 1/2 places. New Zealand will obviously be the Oceania team. As we have speculated the chances of the US needing this extra game to qualify seem much higher with the new format. I assume if the US comes in 2nd in their final group they will at worst be part of this 4 team draw even if they lose against the other second place team for the 3rd Concacaf slot.

 

[El Floppo]

Per NYTimes. lol at the fanfare for Canada.

March 3, 2011, 11:20 AMNo Change in World Cup AllocationsBy ANDREW DASFIFA will keep the same allocations for each continent at the 2014 World Cup. There had been speculation that heavy lobbying would lead to a change in the allotments, but the prospect of rewarding one confederation at the expense of another was rejected in favor of the status quo.Europe will still have the most places (13), followed by Africa (5), Asia (4½), South America (4½), Concacaf (3½) and Oceania (½). The only change is that the four teams who qualify for playoffs — one each from Concacaf, Asia, Oceania and South America — will be matched in a draw, instead of in fixed pairings of continents as in the past.With Brazil already in as the host country, that means South America could have as many as six teams in the event — but only if its fifth-place qualifier wins a playoff. In the last cycle, Africa was guaranteed its six spots — five through qualifying and another for South Africa, the host country.

I am ok with this. I like the draw with the 4 1/2 places. New Zealand will obviously be the Oceania team. As we have speculated the chances of the US needing this extra game to qualify seem much higher with the new format. I assume if the US comes in 2nd in their final group they will at worst be part of this 4 team draw even if they lose against the other second place team for the 3rd Concacaf slot.

Yeah- the US can't possibly finish worse than 2nd in their group with the new format (god help us otherwise), which at the worst puts them in a playoff against whoever.

 

[El Floppo]

Another NYTimes segement of games to watch this weekend...

Top European Soccer Matchups This Weekend

By ROB HUGHES

The outstanding matchups this weekend in European soccer.



SATURDAY

BARCELONA VS. ZARAGOZA

Rarely are a coach and his team so close in age, in experience and in shared success as Pep Guardiola and Barça. The 40-year-old coach completed his record of overseeing Barcelona victories on every ground in La Liga with Wednesday’s triumph at Valencia — the 81st win in Guardiola’s 102 matches as coach.

However, he ended the night in the hospital suffering a herniated disk in his lower back. And while Lionel Messi and Co. should routinely dispose of Zaragoza at Camp Nou, with or without Guardiola on the sideline, the team will need his guidance three days later to help overcome Arsenal in the Champions League.

Zaragoza has scored only seven goals, and one victory, on the road all season.

JUVENTUS VS. A.C. MILAN

Six defeats in 10 games has reduced Juventus to the sad role of a spoiler in the title race. Its last home win, against Inter, could prove decisive if Juve falls this weekend to A.C. Milan.

Milan’s decisive 3-0 defeat of Napoli during the week reinforced its lead atop Serie A. But Milan could have half its mind on its Champions League trip to Tottenham next Wednesday — in which case the Old Lady of Juventus might raise her game and score an upset.

Even so, Juve’s board has seen and heard enough. There will be changes next season, as well there should be, given midfielder Felipe Melo’s admission that the team hasn’t given its all lately.

Hannover vs. Bayern Munich

Munich’s chief executive, Karl-Heinze Rummenigge, calls for calm, but the team’s losses in the league and the German Cup leave coach Louis van Gaal exposed. Win, lose or draw at Hanover — one of three clubs ahead of it in the Bundesliga table — Munich’s season will be a disaster unless it wins the Champions League. ‘‘We have thrown away our entire season,’’ admits Bayern’s young midfielder, Thomas Muller.

SUNDAY

LIVERPOOL VS. MANCHESTER UTD.

Old adversaries, and old enmities, collide at Anfield on Sunday. Manager Kenny Dalglish’s return to Liverpool rekindles his 20-year rivalry with Sir Alex Ferguson, a fellow Scot. The clubs barely need personal rivalries to stir their juices, however, and Liverpool will do everything in its power to prevent United from winning another English title.

For United, wounded by the loss through injuries and suspension of three, perhaps four key defenders, there is always Ryan Giggs. He has now passed Bobby Charlton’s record of 606 league appearances for the team, and signed a new contract to extend his run into his 38th year, and his 22nd as a top player.

Liverpool might field its new $56 million striker, Andy Carroll, though Dalglish refuses to give Ferguson the knowledge of whether Carroll starts or is on the bench. ‘‘He’s done everything the medical people asked of him,’’ Dalglish said. ‘‘Whether Andy will be involved on Sunday, I’m sure Fergie would love to know.’’

SANTANDER VS. REAL MADRID

After its 7-0 romp against an acquiescent Málaga on Thursday, Madrid faces sterner stuff at Santander. The Málaga coach, Manuel Pellegrini, virtually admitted his team gave up Thursday’s match before the kickoff, but Santander, undefeated in six games since it changed owners and changed coaches this year, will have more backbone.

Real waits to see if Cristiano Ronaldo is fit after he tweaked a thigh muscle shooting his third goal against Málaga.

MARSEILLE VS. LILLE

Might this be Lille’s last weekend atop the French league? Its five-point lead disappeared over two games, and Marseille, the champion last season, is grinding out victories despite injuries to strikers André-Pierre Cignac and Loïc Rémy and winger Mathieu Valbuena.

‘‘We’ll need to be strong because we’re going to suffer a lot,’’ Lille midfielder Florent Balmont said. ‘‘If we get a point, we’ll be happy. But we must not go there faint-hearted.’’

 

[NewlyRetired]

Per NYTimes. lol at the fanfare for Canada.

March 3, 2011, 11:20 AMNo Change in World Cup AllocationsBy ANDREW DASFIFA will keep the same allocations for each continent at the 2014 World Cup. There had been speculation that heavy lobbying would lead to a change in the allotments, but the prospect of rewarding one confederation at the expense of another was rejected in favor of the status quo.Europe will still have the most places (13), followed by Africa (5), Asia (4½), South America (4½), Concacaf (3½) and Oceania (½). The only change is that the four teams who qualify for playoffs — one each from Concacaf, Asia, Oceania and South America — will be matched in a draw, instead of in fixed pairings of continents as in the past.With Brazil already in as the host country, that means South America could have as many as six teams in the event — but only if its fifth-place qualifier wins a playoff. In the last cycle, Africa was guaranteed its six spots — five through qualifying and another for South Africa, the host country.

I am ok with this. I like the draw with the 4 1/2 places. New Zealand will obviously be the Oceania team. As we have speculated the chances of the US needing this extra game to qualify seem much higher with the new format. I assume if the US comes in 2nd in their final group they will at worst be part of this 4 team draw even if they lose against the other second place team for the 3rd Concacaf slot.

Yeah- the US can't possibly finish worse than 2nd in their group with the new format (god help us otherwise), which at the worst puts them in a playoff against whoever.

I can see a bunch of scenarios that could see us in 2nd but yeah its seems unlikely the US would finish lower than second in the final grouping of 4.The worst case scenario is obviously either the US or Mexico NOT both getting the #1 seed in the final group. If one of the two plays poorly in the first round, you could have one of the final groups looking likeUS Mex Hond X or US Mex Costa Rica XThat would be a nightmare grouping for any of the three teams. God I hate this new format To be fair though I am unsure how CONCACAF will seed the final groups. I don't know if it is based on early round play or not. If not then we are likely ok in that Mexico and US will be split.So dumb though, the only marquee game in the region for qualifying that others may pay attention to is US Mexico. It is like CONCACAF is trying to lower their profile.

 

[Mjolnirs]

Another NYTimes segement of games to watch this weekend...

Top European Soccer Matchups This Weekend

Hannover vs. Bayern Munich

Munich’s chief executive, Karl-Heinze Rummenigge, calls for calm, but the team’s losses in the league and the German Cup leave coach Louis van Gaal exposed. Win, lose or draw at Hanover — one of three clubs ahead of it in the Bundesliga table — Munich’s season will be a disaster unless it wins the Champions League. ‘‘We have thrown away our entire season,’’ admits Bayern’s young midfielder, Thomas Muller.

I don't think not winning the CL will make the season a disaster, if they don't qualify for the CL next season that would be a disaster. Of course it's complete panic right now on the Bayern e-mail group I belong to.

 

[The Gator]

Cantona: Kung-Fu Kick was best moment of my career

"I think maybe it's like a dream for some, you know sometimes to kick these kind of people."