FIFA 2010 News

How to apply www.bet365.com

noreply@blogger.com (FiFa2010) — Sun, 23 May 2010 14:23:00 +0000

How to apply www.bet365.com

1. Go to http://www.bet365.com
2. Click Join Now it will show the pop up, then you can key in all information.

3. Click Join Now
4. Waiting e-mail for approve and then you can start to betting and do affiliate.

Betting on the Football World Cup - For Beginners

noreply@blogger.com (FiFa2010) — Sun, 23 May 2010 13:57:00 +0000

Analysts expect that almost $1 billion will be bet on the 2010 Football World Cup during the tournament as football fans look to turn their knowledge of the beautiful game into profits in the Football World Cup betting markets. Despite the fortune that will be bet on World Cup odds, there are many more football fans who would like to bet on the tournament but feel intimidated by the prospect of using an online bookmaker and placing bets on the internet. In reality, football betting is very easy, and this simple guide to World Cup betting will show you how to get started:

1. What You Need

The first thing you need to place bets online is a reputable bookmaker. Online betting guides like Gambling-Guru.com provide in-depth reviews of top bookmakers, ensuring that you only deal with the best in the business. Look out for bookmakers located in the United Kingdom and Ireland, as these are regulated and have decades of experience in sports betting.

2. Opening an Account

Once you've found a quality online bookmaker, you'll need to open an account. During the registration process you'll be asked to provide personal details. You are not required to deposit funds while registering your account, however; some bookmakers will require you to register your credit card.

3. Depositing Funds

If you like the look and feel of your online bookmaker, you'll want to go ahead and deposit funds into your account. The easiest way to do this is with a VISA credit card. While other credit cards also work, VISA cards are the easiest cards to use when withdrawing winnings from your account. Using a credit card will also ensure that you qualify for a free bet.

4. Free Bets

Free World Cup bets are offered to new account holders by virtually all online bookmakers. Once you have made your deposit you can earn your free bet by placing a bet. Keep in mind that the free bet you are awarded will match the value of your first bet. Once your first bet produces a result you will be awarded a free bet coupon to use on any market at any time.

5. Placing a Bet

Placing a World Cup bet is simple. Find football on the list of betting sports, select the World Cup from the sub-menu and then choose the market you would like to bet on. As a beginner it's easiest to bet on the outcome of a match in the match betting markets.

To place a bet tick the result you expect the match to produce. Your 'selection' will then appear on a betting slip on your screen and you will be prompted to enter the amount you would like to bet and asked to confirm your bet.

If you're confused about how World Cup odds work, ensure that your odds format setting is on 'decimal'. Decimal odds are the simplest format to understand - just multiply your stake by the decimal odds to determine the total payout on a winning bet.

6. Bet Results

Your World Cup bets will be settled within minutes of a match producing a result. If your bet wins the winnings will be added to your balance. You can withdraw your funds at any time. Keep in mind that you will only be rewarded with a free bet once you have placed your first bet and the even you bet on has produced a result.

For more information visit the World Cup Betting section at bet365.com which features betting tips, odds comparisons, free bets, live scores and more for the 2010 Fifa World Cup in South Africa.

Favorite Soccer Betting Tips for You

noreply@blogger.com (FiFa2010) — Sun, 23 May 2010 13:49:00 +0000

Soccer betting, as the name suggests, is one of the best proposition for every online sports betting. The soccer betting is especially made for online gamblers who will use both: strategy to play and playing for fun. To more emphasize on the soccer betting, it is the most “HOT” betting that is swirling around the online gamblers nowadays. A single soccer betting can even go up to few million dollars. The best usage of soccer betting tips and strategy will make your way to the winning set. It is really the understanding of the tipsters found over the net. IT is already present in huge number in United States.

Soccer betting tips are available all over the net, but you may not get the effective ways to tackle each tip. Earning cash from soccer betting is about having the perfect betting tip and winning the bet in making a right strategy. Internet soccer betting is also a place to be considered when you learn the tips to take away the cash. However finding a true value of a soccer betting tip is most valuable and important too. The art of betting strictly depends on mathematical tips. Anyone can win the bet in case of online soccer betting. Getting a feel of surprise may leave other betters in a sad part.

Your strategy must be properly planned in order to stick on to the soccer betting. This type of soccer betting tip is very easily understandable by all types of persons and even for a layman. Soccer betting has become a big thriving business in the entire world and it is still being spread out to more parts of the world. However a firm experience and practice, an astute gambler may take away the first position beating the odds out.

How can you improve your betting strategy and tip? You can find the information on Internet where all sorts of soccer betting tips and strategies are well explained. With more and more coverage on Soccer betting tips, the scoring is more important. At this point, betting tip will pave the way for your success.

Capello retains hope over Cole

noreply@blogger.com (FiFa2010) — Tue, 16 Feb 2010 06:22:00 +0000

Fabio Capello is crossing his fingers that Ashley Cole recovers from his broken ankle in time to make the 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa™. The Chelsea left-back underwent surgery yesterday on an injury picked up at Everton on Wednesday that is set to keep him out for three months.

If that timescale is correct, the only Blues matches he would be available for would be the FA Cup and UEFA Champions League finals, should the club get that far. It would give Capello a headache as Cole would have had no match practice heading into the last two friendlies before departure for South Africa. In all likelihood, the Italian would trust the naturally fit 29-year-old, who most regard as one of England's true world-class talents.

He is a very important player. He is good when defending and really dangerous when we go forward. I hope this problem will not be so serious.England coach Fabio Capello on Ashley Cole
"It is sad news for me because he is a very important player," Capello acknowledged. "He is good when defending and really dangerous when we go forward. I hope this problem will not be so serious."

Bridge dilemma
Chelsea manager Carlo Ancelotti expects Cole to make it, but regardless of the long-term issues, there are immediate consequences for England ahead of their friendly with recent CAF Africa Cup of Nations winners Egypt at Wembley on 3 March.

Although there are other options, specifically the flexible James Milner and his Aston Villa team-mate Stephen Warnock, Wayne Bridge is generally regarded as Cole's understudy. Yet, only last week, John Terry was sacked as captain for an alleged dalliance with his former Chelsea team-mate's ex-girlfriend.

Although Bridge has vowed not to speak about the issue, it was claimed the 29-year-old was uncomfortable with the thought of sharing a dressing room with Terry. However, his club manager Roberto Mancini has attempted to allay any fears about the Manchester City player's commitment to the England cause.

The national team is important for every player and it is the same for Wayne Bridge. He is committed to playing for England.Manchester City manager Roberto Mancini on Wayne Bridge
"If he is picked, he will play," said Mancini. "The national team is important for every player and it is the same for Wayne Bridge.

"He is committed to playing for England and it is important for any player to play at the World Cup, especially if they are in the first XI. I know the injury to Ashley Cole is a problem for England but Wayne can play in this position for the national team."

Source: FIFA.com

Domenech sets Vieira proviso

noreply@blogger.com (FiFa2010) — Tue, 16 Feb 2010 06:20:00 +0000

Raymond Domenech has declared that Patrick Vieira will captain France at the 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa™, provided the Manchester City midfielder manages to get a run of matches under his belt.

The 33-year-old last week featured in his first two matches since returning to the Premier League in January with the aim of forcing his way back into the Les Bleus squad.

Vieira had been growing increasingly frustrated at his lack of playing time at Inter Milan. The former Arsenal player was left out of the France squad for their crunch qualifying play-off with Republic of Ireland, but Domenech has insisted the veteran will almost certainly be on the plane to South Africa if he remains fit.

If he gets a run of matches, Patrick Vieira will be the captain of the France team and that's it. There's not even a debate.France coach Raymond Domenech
"If he gets a run of matches, Patrick Vieira will be the captain of the France team," he told Orange Sport. "He has just started playing again. Don't do what you normally do: a player has a good match, so he has to be in the France team; then he has a bad match, so you have to drop him.

"What matters, and Pat knows it, is that he gets a run of matches. That's what he says. I definitely don't have any doubts about his qualities. And he knows that and we are in complete agreement because we have discussed it at length.

"What matters is that he gets a run of matches, and if he gets a run of matches, Patrick Vieira will be the captain of the France team and that's it. There's not even a debate."

Vieira, who turns 34 during South Africa 2010, has 107 caps for his country.

Source: FIFA.com

Hard work pays off for Vera

noreply@blogger.com (FiFa2010) — Tue, 16 Feb 2010 06:19:00 +0000

“He plays the same way he lives.” That description perfectly sums up Paraguay’s Enrique Vera, a hard-working midfielder who has quietly become a vital cog in the Albirroja side that clinched a place at the 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa™.

Though Vera is about to contest his first world finals at the age of 30, that is not what makes his such a fascinating story. On the point of giving up the game altogether, he then toyed with the idea of pulling on the yellow shirt of Ecuador. FIFA.com reveals the reasons why as Vera prepares to make his entrance on the biggest stage of all.

Life’s little ups and downs
When he took his first steps in professional football, Vera had to divide his time between training, working and studying. “I began playing for Resistencia in the Paraguayan second division in 1999 and I only got to play a couple of games in the top flight for Sol de America,” he explains. “I tried my luck in Argentina, Switzerland and the UAE even. Then, in 2004 I got an offer from Aucas of Ecuador. I said to myself, ‘If it doesn’t work out, I’ll go and get a job and play in the local leagues’. Luckily, though, I made the most of the chances that came my way after that.”

After a season with Aucas it was on to Olmedo and Universidad Catolica. Then came the turning point in his career: a move to Liga Deportiva Universitaria de Quito in 2006. “I was playing well that year,” he continues. “At the start of 2007, Luis Suarez, who signed me at Aucas and was Ecuador coach at the time, asked me if I wanted to play for the national side. I had the papers all sorted out when I got the call from Paraguay, who had just appointed Gerardo Martino. And here I am.”

We want to win all our group games and then take things step by step. We’ve got the team to go far and I think we can make the semis.Paraguay's Enrique Vera
Nicknamed “Rambert” because of his resemblance to the former Argentinian striker Sebastian Rambert, Vera was a surprise call-up for some people. “He deserves his chance and he can play in several positions,” explained Martino at the time.

The then Paraguay coach employed the versatile Vera in a number of midfield berths, making the most of his unfussy style and tactical discipline. And though the 30-year-old is not known for his prowess in front of goal, having scored just once for his country and that in a friendly against Oman, he hit two goals in a 2009 Peace Cup meeting with Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabeu, a game that saw Cristiano Ronaldo make his Merengue debut. “I only did it so I could tell my grandchildren,” he says with a smile.

His Albirroja debut came in a 2-1 friendly defeat to Mexico in March 2007. Vera consolidated his place in the team despite that setback, going on to feature in the side that contested the 2007 Copa America in Venezuela and then appearing against Peru that October in the opening South Africa 2010 qualifying match.

Eyes on the prize
Paraguay took third place in the South America group, a slightly disappointing finish considering they had been leaders for a significant part of the campaign.

“We had a dip in form and that showed us we couldn’t afford to relax,” he explains. “It was the game before the Argentina match when we realised that we had to go out and fight for each other again. That’s when the results started coming once more, and that’s how we’re going to have to approach the World Cup. There’ll be no margin for error there.”

After lifting the Copa Libertadores, Recopa Sudamericana (South American Cup Winners’ Cup) and the Copa Sudamericana on club duty with LDU de Quito, Vera is anxious for international success in South Africa.

La Albirroja make their Group F on 14 June against reigning world champions Italy, a game he rightly identifies as a tough assignment. “We can’t afford any mistakes if we want to win. But if we can pick up three points, we’ll give ourselves a great chance of going through.”

Next up come Slovakia. “The way they qualified in Europe shows that they’re going to be tough opponents too. They’ll be keen to show what they can do and give that little bit extra. That means we mustn’t underestimate them.” And Paraguay’s final opponents in the section are New Zealand. “There are no easy teams,” he warns. “We’ll need to prove our status as favourites out on the pitch.”

The near-certain absence of Salvador Cabanas, their leading scorer in the qualifiers with six goals, is a huge blow for Paraguay, as his team-mate acknowledges. “It’s a terrible thing and we all feel so very sorry for him,” says Vera, himself only just recovered from a three-month injury lay-off. “He’s an important member of the squad and he’ll be missed on and off the pitch. I hope he recovers soon and can join us. That would give us a tremendous boost.”

Whether Cabanas makes it or not, Paraguay’s objectives for South Africa 2010 remain the same, as their multi-functional midfielder points out. “We want to win all our group games and then take things step by step. We’ve got the team to go far and I think we can make the semis.” All of which begs the question, would he be surprised to see the Paraguayans go all the way and actually win the competition?

“It would be a historic achievement for a country that’s suffered a lot,” he replies, not without conviction. “It would be amazing to give our humble people back home something like that to celebrate. We’ve got the players, the coaching staff is first class and our officials are right behind us. No, to be honest, I don’t think I would be surprised.”

Source: FIFA.com

Legends fuel FIFA World Cup fever

noreply@blogger.com (FiFa2010) — Sat, 13 Feb 2010 05:56:00 +0000

It is a climax experienced quadrennially and enjoyed incomparably. It is one that only the FIFA World Cup™ can deliver.

With the competition’s 19th instalment only 122 days away from kick-off, anticipation is building intensely among football enthusiasts. "Although some critical voices continue to make themselves heard, I have long been convinced that this will be a successful World Cup", said FIFA President Joseph S. Blatter at the latest FIFA Football Committee meeting yesterday. A series of footballing legends also expressed their excitement to FIFA.com.

The anticipation is huge. It will be an African World Cup and I'm really looking forward to it, because it’s going to be very colourful and very entertaining.Franz Beckenbauer
“The anticipation is huge,” enthused Franz Beckenbauer, “It’s been this way since the Final Draw in December, when we found out who would be playing who. It will be an African World Cup and I'm really looking forward to it, because it’s going to be very colourful and very entertaining.”

Cameroonian great Roger Milla revealed his ecstasy that Africa is being given the opportunity to play host to the tournament. “In Africa, we are so happy to have received this World Cup - we could not believe we would get it. Every time I come to Zurich, I thank President Blatter for that,” he said.

Milla may have obvious reason to be thrilled that a country from his home continent will host the FIFA World Cup for the first time, but a number of non-Africans echoed his delight. “It was the right decision to finally have an African country hosting this tournament,” said Sir Bobby Charlton, who inspired England to the world crown in 1966.

“I'm sure that this FIFA World Cup will be a major success. I've been to South Africa a lot of times and people will enjoy it down there. I'm extremely happy that I will go to this year’s World Cup. As always, I hope that England will do well."

Mexican great Hugo Sanchez concurred: "I'm very happy for Africa. The continent had to wait so many years for this occasion. To have South Africa hosting the 2010 FIFA World Cup is not only very good for football, but also for the whole African continent.”

Naturally, Pele, who long pushed for an African nation to be granted the right to host the FIFA World Cup, is relishing the extravaganza. “Everybody knows that I’m very confident and happy because I was the one who was fighting for the World Cup to be in Africa,” he said. “They deserve it.”

So, how far can the African teams go at this year’s FIFA World Cup? “I’m confident that an African team can reach the semi-finals,” opined Beckenbauer. “Ghana are strong, Côte d'Ivoire are strong and the South Africans have home advantage.”

Pele, who boldly - but ultimately wrongly - predicted that an African team would win the FIFA World Cup by the turn of this century, also foresees sides from the home continent causing upsets.

“Some years ago, I talked about the improvement of the African teams. Unfortunately, they showed their improvement in the Olympics against Brazil, when they beat us!” he exclaimed, laughing, referring to Nigeria’s elimination of a star-studded Seleção en route to gold at Atlanta 1996.

I’m personally very sorry that the World Cup is this year, in 2010, because ten is my lucky number and I wish I could play!Pele
“Its difficult to say what will happen this year, but maybe we will see a surprise. The African teams have tough groups but if they qualify for the knockout stage, there’ll certainly be a surprise.”

And while Pele would like to the Africans excel, he naturally wants Brazil to emerge triumphant. “I’m personally very sorry that the World Cup is this year, in 2010, because ten is my lucky number and I wish I could play!” he joked. But as I’m not going to play, I hope that Brazil will go all the way and that we will see an exciting Final.”

Source: FIFA.com

Mavric: We can reach last 16

noreply@blogger.com (FiFa2010) — Sat, 13 Feb 2010 05:53:00 +0000

When Slovenia compete at the 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa™, it will be only their second appearance at global football's top table. On their previous outing at Korea/Japan 2002, then-coach Srecko Katanec's side crashed out at the group stage after defeats by Spain, Paraguay and South Africa.

Slovenia are determined to set the record straight this time round, however, with their confidence boosted by a qualification campaign which included victories over Czech Republic and Poland, as well as UEFA EURO 2008 semi-finalists Russia in the European Zone play-offs.

"It's a great feeling to know you're going to the World Cup," centre-back Matej Mavric, 31, told FIFA.com. "For me, qualifying was my biggest achievement as a player. It was hard work. No one thought we'd do so well at the beginning of the campaign, but we saw our chance and grabbed it with both hands.

It's a great feeling to know you're going to the World Cup. We want to stay in the tournament as long as possible and not have to go home after three matches - that's our main aim.Slovenia defender Matej Mavric
"It was very difficult right from the start, especially with the problems we were having in defence. With time, though, we improved and managed to qualify for the play-offs. Russia are a very good team with some exceptional players, but we were confident, had that bit of luck you need and managed to get there in the end. We have a very close-knit squad and everyone fights for one another. That was the basis for our success in qualifying for South Africa.

"We've only got four or five players in the squad who are over 30, so things look very positive for the future. The World Cup is a once-in-a-lifetime experience and I know I'm really going to enjoy it. We want to stay in the tournament as long as possible and not have to go home after three matches - that's our main aim," added Mavric, who plays his club football with German second-tier side TuS Koblenz and appeared in three of Slovenia's ten qualifiers.

Unity the key
A tough group awaits Slovenia in South Africa, with Group C opponents England, USA and Algeria all keen to put paid to Matjaz Kek and his squad's dream in the host cities of Port Elizabeth, Johannesburg and Polokwane. Nevertheless, the defender, who was born in the former Yugoslavia, remains optimistic about his side's chances.

"I was very pleased when I saw the draw and I’m confident we can make it into the next round," he said. "It's going to be hard but it's definitely do-able. England are the favourites of course, but USA and Algeria are decent sides too.

"We have a good team ourselves and we can get through to the next round if we work together. We're always there for each other both on and off the pitch. That helped us a lot in qualifying and was probably the most important factor behind our success," added a man who has 32 senior international caps to his name.

Mavric's only goal so far at international level came in qualifying for Germany 2006, when he hit a decisive strike in a 2-1 victory over Moldova. Slovenia were, however, unable to reach that tournament, making this year's FIFA World Cup all the more important to their supporters.

I was very pleased when I saw the draw and I’m confident we can make it into the next round. It's going to be hard but it's definitely do-able.Slovenia's Matej Mavric on being drawn against Algeria, England and USA
"Qualifying for South Africa was a fantastic achievement, especially when you consider we're only a country of two million people. When I look back, more and more fans have supported us with each passing game and that's great to see. As with Korea/Japan 2002, the 2010 World Cup is going to do Slovenian football a power of good," said the former Molde, Gorica and Primorje defender.

"One year ago I wasn't even in the national team. It was a difficult time for me, but I've played my way back into contention over the past few months. I'm not a first-team regular, but we all know that a team is made up of more than just 11 players. Of course I'd love to play as much as possible, but I don't mind playing a more minor role."

For the Slovenian underdogs, it is just this kind of humility and squad spirit that could help them spring a surprise at South Africa 2010.

Source: FIFA.com

Spain set for Poland friendly

noreply@blogger.com (FiFa2010) — Fri, 12 Feb 2010 05:52:00 +0000

Spain will complete their preparations for the 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa™ with a friendly against Poland, the Spanish FA confirmed today.

The European champions will host Poland at an as yet unconfirmed venue in Spain on 8 June before heading to South Africa, where Vicente del Bosque's first group match is against Switzerland on 16 June in Durban.

Spain, who face France in Paris on 3 March, also have two other friendlies planned just prior to leaving for the world finals, both of which have already been confirmed by the RFEF last month.

On 29 May they will play Liechtenstein in Vaduz, and on 3 June Korea Republic will be the opposition in the Austrian city of Innsbruck.

The friendly against Liechtenstein, who Spain will also meet in their UEFA EURO 2012 qualifying group, is part of that nation's football federation's centenary celebrations.

Source: FIFA.com

The great American migration

noreply@blogger.com (FiFa2010) — Thu, 11 Feb 2010 06:50:00 +0000

American players, once dismissed as merely athletic and eager role players on the old continent, have been heading across the Atlantic in their numbers of late. It seems Europe - and her biggest leagues - are increasingly recognising the value of the USA’s ever-improving talent pool. Join FIFA.com for a closer look at an intensifying migration of Americans abroad.

Landon Donovan – arguably the best American player of his generation – is currently in his second big-league European loan stint in as many years, lining up alongside international team-mate and goalkeeper Tim Howard for Everton in the vaunted English Premier League. The playmaker, LA Galaxy star and all-time top scorer for the US national team has wasted no time finding his legs at Goodison, either, slotting right into the starting eleven and grabbing his first goal against Sunderland after strong performances in a draw with Arsenal and a 2-0 win over Manchester City, in which he received a standing ovation.

You do your best and hope that a big move to a big club in Europe will come your way. That’s all you can do.USA's Ricardo Clark, recently signed by Eintracht Frankfurt
“His [Donovan’s] work ethic fits in perfectly with the team's and that of David Moyes, and his never-say-die attitude has added some much needed grit to the side,” Simon Paul, editor of NSNO.co.uk – an independent Everton fans website - told FIFA.com. “He has natural ability on the ball and many Evertonians are hoping that his move could become permanent.”

Donovan’s move is proving a happier one than his short loan journey to German giants Bayern Munich in 2009, where he failed to get much first team action or impress the demanding Bavarian faithful. “It’s not always the best idea for American players to go abroad; it’s really up to the individual player to make sure the move is right for him. If you go abroad, you need to play. You don’t help yourself or the national team by going to Europe and sitting on the bench,” he said at the FIFA Confederations Cup in South Africa in June, where the US turned more than a few heads by beating reigning African champions Egypt and world number-one Spain before stretching Brazil in the final.

Another alumnus of the famous Confederations Cup team currently trying his luck overseas is Ricardo Clark, whose last-gasp tackles and tireless work rate in the shock semi-final win over the Spaniards in Rustenburg caught the eye. The holding midfielder, 26, formerly of two-time MLS champions Houston Dynamo, was snapped up by Bundesliga outfit Eintracht Frankfurt at the tail end of the January transfer window, joining up with international team-mate Steve Cherundolo – who plays at Hannover 96 – in Germany’s top league. “You’re always hoping to raise your game, every time you play,” Clark told FIFA.com in June at the Royal Bafokeng Stadium, still glowing from the foraging performance against the European champions. “You do your best and hope that a big move to a big club in Europe will come your way. That’s all you can do.” Unfortunately for the Atlanta native, his first chance to strut his stuff had to be postponed as he picked up a calf injury and is expected to be out of action for four weeks.

One of injury-hit USA coach Bob Bradley’s young guns who is looking to sidle into the first team is Stuart Holden. A versatile midfielder who can play out wide or in the middle of the park, the Scottish-born Holden, 24, headed for English Premier League strugglers Bolton last week. “He did well in America, had a break, then came here and did some training,” manager Owen Coyle said of the Houston Dynamo man, who will stay with Bolton through to the end of the 2010 Premier League season. “There is no doubt when he is fully fit he is a talented kid. He will get his opportunity like the rest of players."

A steady movement
This latest trio of American players setting sail out for foreign shores is by no means the start of a new trend, but one established and steadily picking up steam over the last two decades as US Soccer grows in stature. After John Harkes broke into the English top flight with Sheffield Wednesday in 1990, more and more American players have been taking their chances abroad. Oguchi Onyewu and Charlie Davies – two of Bradley’s big injury worries for South Africa – recently signed deals with Italian giants AC Milan and French side Sochaux respectively following glowing performances in South Africa last year.

National team stars Clint Dempsey (Fulham), goalkeepers Brad Guzan (Aston Villa), Marcus Hahnemann (Wolves), Jay Demerit (Watford), Jonathan Spector (West Ham) and Jozy Altidore (Hull City) are all excelling alongside Donovan in England. Stars and Stripes captain Carlos Bocanegra is in France with Rennes after a time at Craven Cottage with Fulham, while winger DaMarcus Beasley and up-and-coming centre-half Maurice Edu feature for Glasgow giants Rangers. Eddie Johnson and Freddy Adu – who have had tricky times of late in England and Portugal respectively – have both headed out on loan to Greek club Aris Thessaloniki in the hope of putting their names to the fore before the USA boss finalises his squad for the trip to the biggest show on earth this June.

Source: FIFA.com

Simao: We have the toughest group

noreply@blogger.com (FiFa2010) — Thu, 11 Feb 2010 05:48:00 +0000

Portuguese winger Simao Sabrosa has had a memorable career to date. At club level, he has represented prestigious names such as Sporting and Benfica in his homeland, and Spanish giants Barcelona and Atletico Madrid, his current employers. On the international front, he helped his country reach the UEFA EURO 2004 final and finish fourth at the 2006 FIFA World Cup Germany™.

FIFA.com caught up with the 30-year-old to discuss Portugal’s road to South Africa 2010, their Group G opponents and ambitions for the tournament, as well as life at Atletico, his boyhood idol and the importance of a smile.

FIFA.com: Simao, why do you think Portugal found it so difficult to qualify for South Africa 2010?
Simao Sabrosa: What happened was that coach Carlos Queiroz was trying to find a core of players for the World Cup. He decided to put his faith in youngsters, and that made things very hard for us early on. It was a new team with a new coach. But we started to improve bit by bit and I think that we’re very strong at the moment, both in football terms and as a squad. We’re very united.

Portugal will surely need that strength and togetherness, given the quality of their Group G rivals...
It’s the toughest group at the competition. Brazil, Côte d’Ivoire and Korea DPR - it’s so difficult! If we want to progress, we’re going to have to reproduce our form from the last few qualifiers. It’s vital to win, or get at least a point, in our first game against the Africans. Our opponents are very strong, we know that, but we’ll have time to prepare for that encounter. It’s the most important game of our World Cup.

It’s the toughest group at the competition. Brazil, Côte d’Ivoire and Korea DPR - it’s so difficult! It’s vital to win, or get at least a point, in our first game against the Africans.Portugal's Simao Sabrosa on Group G at South Africa 2010
Portuguese fans have grown used to their team going far in major tournaments in recent years. Does that add to the pressure?
We reached the final at EURO 2004 and the semis at Germany 2006, so we clearly set the bar very high and the supporters expect us to repeat those feats. But we don’t let that get to us. When we take the field we’re always focused, we don’t think about the pressure, though of course we’re just as keen to win as the fans are.

So, what is Portugal’s goal for South Africa 2010?
Given the group we’ve been drawn in, our main aim is getting through to the last 16. Then we’ll see what happens, but if we can get through then anything’s possible. That said, the pressure’s not going to ease off because we could end up meeting Spain in the last 16. But that’s looking too far ahead, first of all we’ve got to get out of our group.

Changing tack slightly, why do you think Portugal have so many quality wingers compared to other national teams?
It’s down to the work that’s carried out in our country, particularly in the Sporting youth academy. From a child they drill you in a tactical system where the wingers always have the most important roles. They scout for the most talented players in the country and develop them, using a very talented group of coaches. Other clubs like Benfica and Porto are now following Sporting’s lead, but all the gifted wingers now in the national team, such as Cristiano (Ronaldo), (Luis) Figo, Nani, (Ricardo) Quaresma and me all started at Sporting. As a country, being known for having great wingers is very important to us.

On that note, who did you model yourself on as a boy?
Luis Figo, no doubt about it. I used to go and watch him train from the age of 13, when I joined Sporting’s academy. I always dreamed of being like him. And l was later fortunate enough to play alongside Luis at Sporting, Barcelona and for the national team, and he was always happy to give me advice. In fact, he still does because we live in the same city now he’s retired. He continues to be an example for everyone to follow, whether they are professionals or children just starting out.

And it is not just Figo, there seems to be a whole host of Portuguese players in Madrid at the moment...
We’re all over Spain! We sometimes bump into Cristiano with his agent. I see more of Pepe and Duda from Malaga too. I generally try to keep in touch with my countrymen, even if it’s just over the phone. It’s a shame what happened to Filipe Luis. He was playing so well and a silly injury, so to speak, has denied him the chance to enjoy a World Cup.

What can you tell us about your and Atletico’s current form?
I must admit that we’ve been very inconsistent, especially in the league. We win a game, are happy for three days, and then we lose a game and the atmosphere’s like a funeral. We want to find consistency because we know these highs and lows aren’t acceptable, but something’s not right. At the moment our objective seems to be the Copa del Rey: we want to reach the final and we’re very focused on doing that.

The staff at Atletico have only nice things to say about you. Do you make a conscious effort to be on good terms with them?
You must always be polite, respectful and have a kind word for the staff at the club. I’m a player and I’ve got to play football. The kit man is there to do his job and is just as worthy of respect. If they treat me well, why should I treat them differently? I love being able to tell people I appreciate them, affection is what really matters in life. You’ve always got to have a smile on your face.

You seem to have a very positive outlook, can you tell us your secret?
I’m always talking about happiness because a smile is the best cure for pressure. A footballer’s life can become routine: matches, training, playing every three days, travelling. It’s important to relax a bit and try to enjoy each moment, to smile and be cheerful.

If we’re talking about current form, they’re both playing very well but I think that Messi has the edge at the moment.Simao Sabrosa on the Cristiano Ronaldo-Lionel Messi debate
Tell us a bit more about a footballer’s routine. Can it wear you down?
Not really, but it is very repetitive. You’re on the pitch, you go back home to rest and you’re playing again in three days. The most important things for a player are training, resting and eating well. You finish training, you eat and then have a nice siesta, because you need to keep your strength up for the days ahead. So when I’ve got free time I like to take it easy, watch DVDs, have fun with my family. I always try to be happy.

So, how important is looking after yourself?
It’s very important. When I was young I was fortunate enough to work alongside great, more experienced players who made it clear to me that a good diet, rest and being well-hydrated are vital. So, I’ve made sure to follow that advice all my life, because it’s crucial in order to have a good and long career.

And finally, a difficult question. Who is the better player, Cristiano Ronaldo or Lionel Messi?
(Laughs) If we’re talking about current form, they’re both playing very well but I think that Messi has the edge at the moment.

What about Simao?
(Laughs again). No, no, Messi’s still the best!

Source: FIFA.com

Nigeria boss Amodu sacked

noreply@blogger.com (FiFa2010) — Wed, 10 Feb 2010 05:48:00 +0000

Nigeria football bosses on Friday announced the sacking of coach Shaibu Amodu, publishing a short-list of coaches they hope will lead the 'Super Eagles' through the 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa™.

Amodu had been under pressure even before Nigeria's disappointing third-place finish at the CAF Africa Cup of Nations, which ended with Egypt's third consecutive victory last week.

The Nigeria Football Federation's short-list is topped by Dutchman Guus Hiddink, Bayern Munich coach Louis van Gaal, Frenchman Bruno Metsu, former Ghana coach Ratomir Djukovic and former England caretaker coach Peter Taylor.

Hiddink is currently the coach of the Russian national team, Metsu led Senegal to the 2002 FIFA World Cup and Djukovic guided Ghana to the 2006 finals in Germany.

According to an official statement after the marathon meeting, the NFF technical committee will recommend one of three of these coaches for immediate employment before the end of this month.

Amodu and his assistants will now train Nigeria's second team for the 2011 Championship of African Nations (CHAN), meant for African players featuring in their respective domestic leagues.

In November, Amodu qualified the Super Eagles for the 2010 FIFA World Cup to be staged in South Africa in June. However, the performance of the team under Amodu, who also qualified the team to the 2002 finals in Korea/Japan, was widely criticised by the press and the public.

Source: FIFA.com

Sol still dreaming of South Africa

noreply@blogger.com (FiFa2010) — Wed, 10 Feb 2010 05:46:00 +0000

Arsenal defender Sol Campbell has not given up hope of playing for England in this summer's 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa™.

However, the 35-year-old acknowledges he needs to make the most of his limited opportunities to shine if he is to fulfil the dream. The former Gunners captain rejoined the English Premier League title-chasers last month on a short-term deal until the end of the season.

He told Arsenal TV: "You can look back at scenarios but ultimately you have to keep on looking forward if you want to get anywhere in your life. I haven't thought about it (an England call) but who'd want to turn it down?

I've got to work hard, keep focused and if the opportunity comes along I'll take it.Sol Cambell of Arsenal
"I would love to play for my country again. I wouldn't turn it down and say 'I'm going on holiday' or 'I'm getting married - see you later," he added. "If the opportunity comes along I'd definitely seriously consider it - but the main thing is to get some games under my belt with Arsenal...I have to play some games for Arsenal and go from there really."

Campbell has played in two games since returning to the club, the 3-1 FA Cup defeat at Stoke and the goalless draw at Aston Villa in the Premier League. "It's a squad game so I'll probably get used throughout the season, there are a lot of big games," he added. "If someone takes a liking to me and wants to give me an opportunity I'd love to. But I've got to play well and show people what I can do.

"I've got to work hard, keep focused and if the opportunity comes along I'll take it," he concluded. "There's a lot of work to be done...it will come down to one man's decision."

Source: FIFA.com

Terry stripped of captaincy

noreply@blogger.com (FiFa2010) — Wed, 10 Feb 2010 05:44:00 +0000

John Terry has been sacked as England captain. The 29-year-old was informed of the decision by Fabio Capello during a brief meeting at Wembley this afternoon. The decision comes after allegations surrounding the Chelsea skipper's private life came to light.

"After much thought I have made the decision that it will be best for me to take the captaincy away from John Terry," said the Italian in a statement.

Capello made it clear that while Terry's conduct on the field had been exactly what he wanted when he made his decision to appoint the central defender as skipper in August 2008, recent headlines about his personal life left him with little choice other than to remove the honour from the Barking-born player. It is alleged that Terry had an affair with Vanessa Perroncel, the ex-girlfriend of England team-mate Wayne Bridge, also a former club-mate of Terry's at Chelsea.

After much thought I have made the decision that it will be best for me to take the captaincy away from John Terry. What is best for all of the England team has inspired my choice.England coach Fabio Capello
"As a captain with the team, John Terry has displayed extremely positive behaviour," added Capello. "However, I have to take into account other considerations and what is best for all of the England squad. What is best for all of the England team has inspired my choice and John Terry was notified first."

Although Capello has not clarified whether he still intends to select Terry, it seems he has already confirmed Rio Ferdinand will replace the Chelsea man, with Steven Gerrard acting as his deputy.

"When I chose John Terry as captain, I also selected a vice-captain and also named a third choice," said Capello. "There is no reason to change this decision. I would like to take this opportunity to thank the FA, particularly Lord David Triesman and Ian Watmore for allowing me to make this decision in my own time and in the best interest of the team."

Capello has only been in the job for just over two years but it is a measure of his standing within the English game that both FA chairman Lord Triesman and chief executive Watmore were happy to let him make the judgement.

Terry kept his own comments brief. However, he had little option other than to accept Capello's decision and gave a broad hint that he would continue to be involved with the national team.

"I fully respect Fabio Capello's decision," Terry said in a statement. "I will continue to give everything for England."

Source: FIFA.com

Africa’s time in the sun

noreply@blogger.com (FiFa2010) — Wed, 03 Feb 2010 06:00:00 +0000

The growing stature and success of African football took centre stage this past week as the Africa Cup of Nations reached its crescendo in Luanda on Sunday. And according to many of the football administrators present for the tournament, this was just a taste of things to come in 2010.

Chief Executive Officer of the 2010 FIFA World Cup Organising Committee South Africa (OC), Dr Danny Jordaan, summed up the mood in Angola when he told officials gathered at the 32nd CAF Congress that Africa is not a charity but has the right to host the FIFA World Cup and any other major football competitions.

“Last year the FIFA Under 17 World Cup, the FIFA Under 20 World Cup and the FIFA Confederations Cup were all hosted successfully on the African continent. As we go towards this World Cup we must defend our right to host this event on the basis that as members of FIFA we are all equal, and not as a charity, but as a right.”

The media and football administrators discussed football development on the continent, preparation for the FIFA World Cup, just over 130 days away, and other football events on the African continent in 2009.

As the world continues to focus on Africa and its role in world football, Jordaan took the opportunity to congratulate Egypt and Nigeria for hosting successful tournaments last year.

“It does not matter whether you have the economy the size of the USA or of Uganda or whether you have a population the size of China or Chad, as members of FIFA we are all equal. “

FIFA President Joseph S. Blatter said it was time for the world to stop doubting Africa’s capabilities.

“Why do people still doubt Africa? We have been working with Africa for years and now we have brought the World Cup to Africa which has given so much to football. I think it is only fair that the World Cup comes to South Africa. So let us trust the organisers.”

Issa Hayatou, president of CAF and head of FIFA’S World Cup Organising Committee said he was confident that Africa’s first World Cup would be a success.

“Journalists, fans and the teams must have trust and confidence in the organisation of this tournament. All the necessary steps have been taken to ensure that this World Cup is a success.

2010 FIFA World Cup ambassador, Roger Milla, who spoke to the congress via a pre-recorded video message, once again reiterated his joy at the World Cup being hosted in Africa for the first time.

“The World Cup is an historic event and we are particularly proud not only of South Africa but of the African continent as a whole. As the days go by we that Africa is going forward and that Africa is an important part of FIFA and is part of the power of football to generate hope. I hope this will continue,” he said.

Source: FIFA.com

Serbia select Johannesburg for base

noreply@blogger.com (FiFa2010) — Wed, 03 Feb 2010 03:35:00 +0000

Serbia will use Johannesburg as their base for the 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa™ finals, the country's football federation has said.

Serbia are in Group D with Germany, Australia and Ghana.

Their base for the 11 June - 11 July finals, close to the University of Johannesburg, is around 40 kilometres from Loftus stadium in Pretoria, where Serbia open their campaign against Ghana on 13 June.

Source: FIFA.com

Capello planning for Euro mission

noreply@blogger.com (FiFa2010) — Wed, 03 Feb 2010 03:34:00 +0000

Fabio Capello has vowed to remain as England coach until 2012. The Italian's £6m-a-year contract with the FA has an escape clause that would allow either party to call time on the agreement after the 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa™. Given the astounding reversal in fortunes - from not even making UEFA Euro 2008 to being installed as third favourites for the biggest prize in the game - it is difficult to conceive the FA would rip the deal up.

There has been a sneaking suspicion that Capello might though. The theory goes that the 63-year-old is not entirely keen on life in London, misses the day-to-day involvement of being a club boss and, considering his lack of affinity to the England cause, would prefer to head home. In fact, Capello loves his life and his job.

He has repeatedly stressed the England manager's post was the only international role he wanted, that the challenge of re-invigorating the Three Lions was much more appealing even than coaching Italy, whose four FIFA World Cup triumphs give them a status sadly lacking in England. And, as he looks ahead to next week's UEFA Euro 2012 draw in Warsaw, Capello confirmed he has no plans to quit.

"I hope to be still here in 2012," he said. "It depends on the FA and results at the World Cup of course, but I am really happy. I like my job. I like being England manager and I hope after the World Cup I will still be manager.

"I don't think about not being the England manager. The football in England is exciting, the Premier league is good and I enjoy working with the English players."

I like my job. I like being England manager and I hope after the World Cup I will still be manager.Fabio Capello
Certainly Capello seems to have avoided much of the negative publicity that has surrounded the role in recent years. The Sven-Goran Eriksson era was side-tracked by dalliances, both professional and personal. He also kept failing at the quarter-finals, a test admittedly Capello is yet to face.

Steve McClaren's ill-fated two years were hampered by injuries to key men, plus decisions such as playing Scott Carson in the vital final qualifier against Croatia after only making his debut five days earlier, that merely confirmed a suspicion that he was not up to the task. Those thoughts do not exist with Capello.

Even the sceptics who maintain an Englishman should be England manager would struggle to argue Capello has not been a success, while the former AC Milan coach's vast experience and trophies at the highest level earn him a priceless degree of respect from his peers.

"I have a good feeling with the players, but also the managers and the FA," Capello said. "That is important for me. I am comfortable here in England and with this job. It gives me great satisfaction and we still have things to achieve.

"For me, being happy in my job is the most important thing. It is not just about managing the team - it is everything," said Capello. "Being England manager makes me happy. I like living in London and so does my wife. The message is I am happy here and I hope to be the England manager for the Euros."

Source: FIFA.com

Zuma: World Cup good for business

noreply@blogger.com (FiFa2010) — Wed, 03 Feb 2010 03:32:00 +0000

South African President Jacob Zuma has used the gathering of the 2010 World Economic Forum in Switzerland to highlight South Africa’s 2010 FIFA World Cup readiness.

President Zuma told delegates that the tournament offered an opportunity for the world to see and experience Africa in a different way.

“We are also here at Davos during an exciting year for South Africa. We will in a few months host the 2010 FIFA World Cup, the biggest event of its kind to have ever taken place in South Africa and in Africa.

“It is an opportunity to tackle stereotypes and preconceptions about the continent, and explore new frontiers of interaction and cooperation. It is an important milestone in the regeneration of the continent,” he said.

Zuma said the year 2010 also marked a significant celebration in South Africa’s political history.

“2010 is also an important year for us, because we will be marking the 20th anniversary of the release of Nelson Mandela from prison, which kick-started dramatic political changes. The decades of the struggle against apartheid by South Africans, supported by Africa and the world, had yielded results,” he said.

“We have achieved a lot since that dramatic day of the 11th of February 1990. South Africa has performed admirably in the economic, political and social spheres. This includes the political transition to a democratic state, the subsequent strengthening of South Africa’s democratic institutions, as well as economic growth,” The President said.

The President said South Africa was ready to host the World Cup.

“We say boldly that South Africa is ready to welcome the world to Africa, in June-July 2010. We have worked for many years for this exciting tournament.

Other than the football games that South Africans will be privileged to be part of, the country’s potential as a destination for business, trade and tourism will be on display during the World Cup tournament,” he said

President Zuma said hosting the World Cup had prompted major infrastructure upgrades.

“The country’s transport, energy, telecommunications and social infrastructure are being upgraded and expanded. This is contributing to economic development in the midst of a global recession, while improving conditions for investment”.

Source: FIFA.com

Senderos contemplates Celtic switch

noreply@blogger.com (FiFa2010) — Thu, 21 Jan 2010 07:59:00 +0000

Arsenal defender Philippe Senderos believes a loan move to Celtic could help resurrect his dream of playing for Switzerland at this year's FIFA World Cup™ in South Africa.

"I am very honoured that a big club like Celtic are interested in me and a loan deal right now would suit me perfectly," said Senderos, who has fallen down the Gunners central defensive pecking order behind William Gallas and Thomas Vermaelen.

The World Cup this summer is a really big thing for me. I know that if I'm not playing regularly my chances of playing in South Africa will be badly affected.Senderos of Arsenal and Switzerland
"My main priority is to get back playing regular football," said Senderos. "I really miss that. The World Cup this summer is a really big thing for me. I know that if I'm not playing regularly my chances of playing in South Africa will be badly affected.

"It would be my second World Cup and I want to get the best possible build-up to it," the central defender added. "Unfortunately, I haven't played a lot of football recently and that's why I feel I have to leave Arsenal. Hopefully something will be in place over the next few days but I'll wait and see."

Source: FIFA.com

SA celebrities relish 2010

noreply@blogger.com (FiFa2010) — Thu, 21 Jan 2010 07:53:00 +0000

In less than six months, South Africa is due to embark on what figures to be the most rewarding and spectacular journey in its short yet celebrated history as a democracy when the country will host the 2010 FIFA World Cup.

And South Africans can hardly wait. Neil Tovey, the man who led South Africa to their first ever continental triumph at the CAF Africa Cup of Nations in 1996 described this year as "probably the second most important" period the country’s era. The first one, obviously, being when South Africa held its first democratic elections in 1994, thus ending the country’s apartheid regime.

"It’s an important year for all South Africans. When I was still playing, I never dreamt that we would one day host a FIFA World Cup in this country. At this moment, I guess everyone is proud to be South African because we have an opportunity to change people’s perception of not only South Africa but also about the African continent," Tovey said.

Former boxing World Champion and a sport icon in South Africa, Vuyani Bungu is optimistic about the event and believes it will go a long way in bridging the differences that exist with the country. "The World Cup is by far the biggest sporting event and we are privileged to be hosting it. I think this is going to be a very good year for us and for our country.

"This World Cup will unite this country. I think once people realise just how big this event is, they will look beyond the differences and unite as South Africans to show the world what we can offer as a nation. We have travelled a long journey as a country and this is an opportunity to take yet another step forward," Bungu told FIFA.com.

South African football legend, Mark Fish said South Africans were now waiting with bated breath for the World Cup. "It seems that a lot of people are now only talking about the World Cup, and I think it is because people realise that this is a moment that has a potential to change this country. 2010 will undoubtedly go down in the history books as one of this country’s most memorable moments."

Television personality and radio disc jockey, Andile Ncube said he expects to see the host team, affectionately called Bafana Bafana, do well on the pitch at the FIFA World Cup. "The most important thing for us now is to get our team ready. We have to be ready. We did fairly well at the Confederations Cup tournament in June, but now we have to be ready for the big one. It is important for the team to do well in this tournament in order to boast the morale of the country and to get everyone behind it," Ncube said.

Makhaya Ntini, the first ethnic black player to play for the South African cricket team 12 years ago, said he was expecting 2010 to be a massive year for his country. As someone who has played at a World Cup on home turf, Ntini is familiar with the challenges of playing in front of your own crowd. "First of all, to host any World Cup in your own country is simply unbelievable, and to be participating in it is out of this world. For me it was the cricket World Cup, but we all know that the football World Cup is much bigger than that. It’s a massive opportunity for us to take our rightful place on the world stage."

But Ntini added a note of warning regarding the expectations of the home supporters. "For the Bafana Bafana players, it’s pressure all the way. You have no idea how you’ll feel when you have the expectations of 46 million people on your shoulders, all of them wanting results. But that pressure can be good for a player, as I hope it will be for our boys."

Source: FIFA.com

Lampard: England can win it

noreply@blogger.com (FiFa2010) — Thu, 21 Jan 2010 06:57:00 +0000

Frank Lampard is adamant England will not get swept up in the hype surrounding their prospects at this year's FIFA World Cup™ in South Africa.

England may have won the FIFA World Cup just once, on home soil in 1966, but every subsequent appearance they have made at a major football tournament has sparked hopes of a similar outcome among their fans. Chelsea midfielder Lampard was a member of the England squad at the 2006 FIFA World Cup in Germany where the team lost in the quarter-finals to Portugal after some players had suggested they could win the event.

During Fabio Capello's two years in charge of England the team has undergone a major upsurge in fortunes, from failing to qualify for UEFA EURO 2008 under former boss Steve McClaren to FIFA World Cup contenders. But the Italian is not one for getting carried away and friendly defeats by Brazil, France and Spain have served to reinforce awareness of the scale of the task facing England in South Africa.

Meanwhile Lampard is confident England have learnt their lessons from four years ago. "There's an inner confidence within the squad but I don't think we're thinking about winning the trophy. We've been here before," he said. "The experienced players who have been here before know that it doesn't really matter what you say before the tournament or what your form's like a few months before the tournament, what really matters is how you play when you get there.

With the squad we have got and the way we have played, we are doing everything right but when we go there we have to do everything right thereEngland midfielder Frank Lampard.
"You get asked the question a million times - 'Can you win it?' and the obvious answer is 'Yes we can if we are playing well,' but you have to go there and win it. With the squad we have got and the way we have played, we are doing everything right but when we go there we have to do everything right there."

Lampard - the guest of honour at a Football Writers' Association dinner in London on Sunday - knows that at the age of 31 this is likely to be his last FIFA World Cup. "This year is a big year for me," he said. "It's obviously a World Cup year so it's career defining. If we were to go there and win it then who knows what would happen after that?"

Before the World Cup gets underway in June, Lampard has the chance to win yet more club honours with Chelsea, the Premier League leaders. "I don't think I'll become distracted by the World Cup," said Lampard, who has been capped 76 times by England.

"When I play for my club you get into the zone about playing club football. I don't look too far ahead. It's nice when the draw comes around, you get excited and when it gets nearer you get more excited but there's too much going on at Chelsea, it's too important.

"We are in everything at the moment so we are focused completely on that. Hopefully when it comes to the end of the season I'll be confident after winning things with Chelsea and go to the World Cup."

Source: FIFA.com

Maradona takes SA by storm

noreply@blogger.com (FiFa2010) — Wed, 20 Jan 2010 20:55:00 +0000

From legendary football players in their own right to young and aspiring sportsmen and women, the arrival this morning of one of the world's greatest football players of all time, Diego Maradona, has caused a wave of excitement among South Africans.

Former South African football great Mark Fish, who helped his country to its African Cup of Nations victory in 1996 and who took part in the 1998 FIFA World Cup has certainly met some well known sportsmen in his time, but his meeting with Maradona this afternoon at the High Performance Centre (HPC) at the University of Pretoria is one he will never forget.

“When I met him now I was lost for words, I literally had goose bumps all over. This really is a dream come true – his football ability was second to none,” said the former South African national player. “My friends and I often talk about who is the greatest player of all time but I know who it is, I now know I have met the greatest football player,” to which Maradona jokingly responded, “Yes my mother also thinks so,” as the two compared their Che Guevara tattoos.

When I met him now I was lost for words, I literally had goose bumps all over. This really is a dream come true – his football ability was second to noneFormer South African football player, Mark Fish
As the Argentinian base camp for the 2010 FIFA World Cup, Maradona was at the HPC to tour the facilities and check up on the progress of the refurbishments ahead of the Albicelestes taking occupancy for their 2010 campaign.

As a centre of excellence for South African sportspeople, Maradona ran into a number of well known sporting personalities at the HPC, including South African swimmer Roland Schoeman who was amazed to meet one of his own sporting heroes. But it was Maradona who heaped the praise on Schoeman when he found out that he was an Olympic gold medalist, showing much enthusiasm in his sporting accomplishments in the pool.

They might not have been old enough to watch him play, but for the youngsters at the HPC they certainly knew all about the legend and clamoured for a picture with Maradona as he handed out shirts and caps to the University of Pretoria first division football team who are based at the centre.

“It is so great to meet the legend, we all love him and the way he played,” said one ecstatic young player who plans to frame his cap he received from Maradona to prove to his friends that he actually met the Argentinean great. For Matthew Russki, he never though he would see such a world renowned player right here in South Africa. “It is such a great feeling to have the greatest footballer of all time in our own back garden,” said the young football player who cannot wait until the world’s top footballers arrive in South Africa for the World Cup in June this year.

But it was nine-year-old Pablo Mckenzie who stole the show when he asked Maradona for an autograph. The young boy from Tshwane/Pretoria got more than he bargained for when the Argentinian coach bent down for a hug and continued to walk with him as they chatted about football.

“It is amazing to meet him, I have heard so much about this man,” said the startled youngster who certainly has high hopes of achieving his own fame on the field, being named after Argentinean football player Pablo Aimar.

During his whirlwind visit to the Argentinian World Cup base camp, Maradona also had business to attend to as he inspected the facilities that would form the base of his teams World Cup campaign as he was taken on a tour of the centre by the Chief Executive Officer of the HPC, Toby Sutcliffe.

Sutcliffe is confident that the Argentinians will be practicing with the best facilities possible come the World Cup during their stay at the HPC, which is currently hosting the Swedish Olympic swimming team and the Russian rugby team.

“A lot of planning has been taking place since September. The main field has been totally relaid and they have also requested three additional fields for recreational purposes. On top of this we are busy installing additional facilities such as Plasma televisions and Playstations for the players as requested by the team for their downtime.”

Maradona was obviously happy with what he saw, feeling confident of Argentina’s chances in the World Cup.

“We are very confident (with the facilities), we don't have anything to complain about. We hope to get as far as possible. We know we are not the favourites but we have a great desire. We want to break the curse after 24 years that we have not been given (the World Cup). The desire never goes away. The hope never goes away.”

Souce: FIFA.com

Dempsey eases USA fears

noreply@blogger.com (FiFa2010) — Wed, 20 Jan 2010 13:00:00 +0000

Fulham striker Clint Dempsey will not require surgery to repair his injured right knee, the English Premier League side announced on Tuesday, easing USA fears that he might be lost for the 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa™.

Dempsey, who plays forward as well as attacking midfielder, suffered moderate ligament damage but an MRI scan indicated there was not a torn ligament and that he might play for Fulham before the end of the season. That means he should be healthy when the Americans face England on 12 June in their FIFA World Cup opener.

"The news about Clint's injury is positive, especially given the fact that he will not require surgery," USA coach Bob Bradley said. "We are confident that Clint will be ready to be an important part of our team during the World Cup."

Dempsey, 26, was injured during a 2-0 Fulham loss Sunday at Blackburn. USA team medical staff have spoken daily with Fulham officials since then and will monitor Dempsey's progress in the months of rehabilitation to come. Dempsey has 17 goals in 60 caps for the Americans and seven goals for Fulham this season.

The USA squad is already dealing with injuries to star defender Oguchi Onyewu, who is rehabilitating after knee surgery, and forward Charlie Davies, who suffered two broken right leg bones and a lacerated bladder in a car crash.

Source: FIFA.com

Toni: Roma first, Italy second

noreply@blogger.com (FiFa2010) — Wed, 20 Jan 2010 07:53:00 +0000

Roma striker Luca Toni is hoping that his two-goal display against Genoa yesterday caught the eye of Italy coach Marcello Lippi.

The 32-year-old, on loan from Bayern Munich until the end of the season, notched his first goals since his return to Serie A football in the 3-0 win. Toni made the move to Roma at the start of this month following a difficult spell in the Bundesliga, where a lack of playing time has damaged his chances of making Italy's FIFA World Cup™ squad.

But the striker is hopeful yesterday's performance will have gone some way to remedying that. "Lippi knows what I'm capable of in the national side and I've already had many happy moments wearing that shirt," he told reporters. "I know the better I do at Roma the more chances I will have to join the national side. Right now, what's important for me is to score many goals to put Roma ahead."

The result against Genoa marked Roma's third win in four games and extended I Giallorossi's unbeaten run to 10 matches. Their next league match is at Juventus, who are also battling for a place in the UEFA Champions League, and Toni is hopeful his team can produce another winning performance.

"We are happy and the better we do, the more enthusiastic we are," he added. "We'll have to play Juve now and we hope it will be a great match."

Source: FIFA.com

Low: We've made real progress

noreply@blogger.com (FiFa2010) — Wed, 20 Jan 2010 07:52:00 +0000

In football-obsessed Germany, rarely has a national coach been as popular as Joachim Low, a native of the Black Forest who celebrates his 50th birthday on 3 February. His expertise from the dugout and personal elegance are the ideal attributes for the top job in a country which has won the FIFA World Cup™ three times, where knowledge and proficiency are valued above all other qualities, but which has always demanded idols with personal charisma and a strong personality.

The former forward, fondly nicknamed Jogi, remains the all-time leading scorer for Freiburg, although his playing record for his country amounts to just four U-21 appearances. His skill as a coach is more highly regarded. As Jurgen Klinsmann’s assistant, Low was widely acknowledged as the brains of the operation. His meticulousness and tactical wisdom have earned him a reputation as a guru of the game, while his highly fashionable dress sense and natural charm make him a perfect figurehead in a media-intensive world.

Above all else, Low is hungry for success. He succeeded Klinsmann after Germany 2006, with a brief to develop the national team’s newly-acquired attacking instincts. He frequently refers to 'possession quotas', by which he means the interval between a player receiving a pass and releasing the ball. During his time in charge, this measure has decreased significantly for Germany, leading to a much higher tempo.

Low’s Germany are now aiming to play attractive and successful football in South Africa. The nation currently lying sixth on the FIFA/Coca-Cola-World Ranking will travel to the 2010 finals with their customary ambitious targets. While on a visit to Cape Town, Low met FIFA.com for an exclusive interview.

FIFA.com: Joachim, you’ve been to South Africa a number of times in the build-up to the FIFA World Cup, and you’ve got to know Johannesburg and Cape Town quite well. What are your impressions?
Joachim Low: Cape Town is fascinating, a fabulous city with an unbelievably beautiful setting: the ocean, the mountains and a terrific atmosphere. The people here are open, friendly and multicultural. Johannesburg is obviously rather different, but South Africa 2010 will be a tremendous World Cup.

Germany always approach tournaments aiming to go as far as possible. We definitely boast the quality to go a long, long way.Joachim Low on Germany's chances at South Africa 2010
What’s your plan for Germany in the run-up to the tournament?
We began making preparations at an early stage, and also commissioned analyses of the contrasting micro-climates and altitudes affecting the matches in South Africa. We’ve talked it all through and worked hard on that aspect. But the World Cup starts for real now. We can finally step up our preparations because we know who we’re playing against and where.

Looking back briefly to 2009, it was an eventful year with a happy ending for Germany, wasn’t it?
My verdict on the year is positive. We came through our World Cup qualifying group undefeated and we beat the Russians twice. They were very strong opponents, so our victory away to them was a real highlight.

So you’re fully satisfied?
Between times there were a couple of matches where we fell short of peak performance. It’s pretty normal for a national team when there’s nothing really decisive at stake. But all in all, the team’s come on well and played some good football. When it really mattered, we were highly disciplined, and our quality was very high – there was some really excellent football at times. So we’re basically well set. We have a good team with a lot of experience.

In which particular areas have Germany improved most in recent years?
I believe we’ve made real progress tactically. We started the process with Jurgen Klinsmann in 2004. We made a few changes and tried a different direction. We gave a very good account of ourselves at the 2006 World Cup – we were very, very good at times actually. Then we made the EURO 2008 final, and now we’ve come through World Cup qualifying undefeated. So I do believe there’s been improvement, especially from younger players like Lukas Podolski, Bastian Schweinsteiger, Philipp Lahm and Per Mertesacker, all of whom now have 50 or 60 caps. They’re still at a good age for footballers, but they’re experienced as well. So, overall, I reckon we’ve developed well as a team.

Germany were third at the last FIFA World Cup and runners-up at UEFA EURO 2008. Can you win South Africa 2010?
Germany always approach tournaments aiming to go as far as possible and preferably reach the final. That’s the way it is. Obviously, there are five or six other nations - Brazil, Italy, France and England to name a few - who will also feel they have a realistic chance of winning it. We definitely boast the quality to go a long, long way, as we showed at the EURO. We’ll do everything in our power to do just that.

You face Serbia, Ghana and Australia in Group D. That’s not going to be easy, is it?
The group is tough, very tough. Serbia and Ghana have some exceptional players. Australia are a good team too, and they’ll be totally fired up against us. We have a lot of very hard work coming up.

Source: FIFA.com