Soccer Friction

La Liga Preview: Barcelona - Racing Santander

2008-01-20T05:34:00.000-08:00

Barcelona (2nd, 40pts) v Racing Santander (6th, 32pts)
When: 21:00 CET - Sunday, January 20, 2008
Where: Camp Nou, Barcelona

Barcelona (2nd, 40pts) v Racing Santander (6th, 32pts)
When: 21:00 CET - Sunday, January 20, 2008
Where: Camp Nou, Barcelona

Being second in the league for the majority of the campaign and progressing to the latter rounds of the Copa del Rey and the Champions League has not kept Barcelona away from criticism.

After not winning a major honour last season, the spotlight has been on the Catalan club this term and the slightest problem has been magnified and blow out of proportion.

Suddenly, all the players and the coach that helped the club win two consecutive league title and the Champions League are no longer considered good in some quarters.

Four new faces arrived in the summer and expectations rose even higher so the fact that the club did not start the season by winning every game saw the critics begin to circle.

While Real Madrid's effectiveness over attractiveness won them the league last season and has taken them to the top once again this term, suddenly Barça are expected to dampen down their free-flowing game to earn results.

After hampering down and passing through the worst of the storm, Frank Rijkaard and his players appear to be coming out the other side and success in any one of the three competitions that they are in would answer all the problems.

One Defeat

The club's only defeat at home this season came at the hands of Madrid, but all nine other teams to have visited Camp Nou this season have left with nothing.

That statistic combined with the fact that the club have scored 25 times and conceded just five goals at home means that Racing will face a very tough task on Sunday.

But the Cantabrian club are not the same side that they have been for the past few seasons and there will certainly be no relegation worries this term.

Marcelino took over last summer after winning promotion with Recreativo and keeping them in the top half of the table in the first campaign alongside the big boys.

No headlines were made with players being signed in the summer, although some predicted that the team would go backwards after the departure of Nikola Zigic.

Top Six Aim

Instead, the new boss galvanised his team as experienced campaigners like Aldo Duscher, César Navas were brought in Jorge López along with Sergio Sánchez, Ebi Smolarek and Mohammed Smolarek.

Led from the front by the inspirational Pedro Munitis, Racing have lost only once at home this term and have won three and drawn three of their ten away games.

That run has pushed the club into the top six and they are currently five points ahead of Valencia and six above Sevilla.

Since being heavily beaten by Sevilla in the final game before the Christmas break, Racing have begun the New Year in impressive form as they have won four of their five games in 2008.

After winning at Real Mallorca, Marcelino guided his side to the quarter finals of the Copa del Rey and they could be considered to be dark horses to at least reach the final.

RECENT FORM

Barcelona

Match	Result	Date	Championship
Barcelona - Sevilla	0 - 0	15/01/2008	COPA DEL REY
Barcelona - Murcia	4 - 0	12/01/2008	LA LIGA
Sevilla - Barcelona	1 - 1	09/01/2008	COPA DEL REY
Mallorca - Barcelona	0 - 2	05/01/2008	LA LIGA
Barcelona - Real Madrid	0 - 1	23/12/2007	LA LIGA
Valencia - Barcelona	0 - 3	15/12/2007	LA LIGA

Racing Santander

Match	Result	Date	Championship
Racing - Zaragoza	4 - 2	16/01/2008	COPA DEL REY
Osasuna - Racing	0 - 2	13/01/2008	LA LIGA
Zaragoza - Racing	1 - 1	09/01/2008	COPA DEL REY
Racing - Athletic Bilbao	1 - 0	06/01/2008	LA LIGA
Sevilla - Racing	4 - 1	22/12/2007	LA LIGA
Murcia - Racing	2 - 1	16/12/2007	LA LIGA

TEAM NEWS

Barcelona

José Manuel Pinto is set to be included in the squad for the first time after arriving on loan from Celta Vigo as cover for Albert Jorquera. Carles Puyol is expected to recover from the fever that kept him out of training on Friday, but Edmílson and Ronaldinho look set to miss the game, although both are close to returning to action. Lionel Messi is also not yet fully fit and will be asked to wait another week before being given the green light.

Racing Santander

Marcelino has confirmed that he is giving the Copa del Rey game in midweek against Athletic Bilbao priority over the game against Barça and is expected to rotate his side accordingly. Smolarek is has not recovered from a knock and will not be included in the squad that the coach will name on Saturday afternoon.

PREDICTION

Racing will come to defend as have the majority of teams this season at Camp Nou and Barça will have to be sharper than they were against Sevilla in midweek in order to pick up all three points. It will certainly be taxing as the Blaugrana played a full tilt game on Tuesday, but will have enough in the tank to do enough to maintain their pursuit of Madrid.

Barcelona 2 - 0 Racing Santander

La Liga Preview: Atlético Madrid - Real Madrid

2008-01-20T05:26:00.000-08:00

What: La Liga, Matchday 20
Who: Atlético Madrid (3rd, 37pts) vs Real Madrid (1st, 47pts)
When: Sunday, 20th January 2008, 1900 CET
Where: Estadio Vicente Calderón, Madrid

El Derbi Madrileño takes centre stage in La Liga this weekend as the two behemoths from the capital collide for the 142nd time in the league. The two clubs racked up a combined bill of over €200 million in the summer transfer market but all that big spending seems to be paying dividends as the results are showing on the pitch.

Atlético finished the first half of the term in their best league position in a decade, while Madrid themselves are enjoying their best start to a season in the club's rich history.

Eight Year Heartache Los

Los Colchoneros will head into Sunday's big game closest to their fierce city rivals in the standings than they have been in quite some time.

Although there's still a ten-point disparity between the sides, Atlético are only two places behind Los Blancos after last weekend's 1-0 victory over Valencia pushed them back into the top three. The hard fought win, coupled with their progress to the quarterfinals of the Copa del Rey midweek, would have restored a sense of self belief in the dressing room.

It is that little extra psychological edge that has been missing in all their previous squads all these years and it’s not hard to see why they have had that knack of failing to live up to expectations come the big game.

The men from the Manzanares have yet to beat their illustrious neighbours in the new millennium, home or away. The last time they won was eight years ago back in October 1999, when they came away from the Bernabéu with a 1-3 victory.

Their head-to-head at the Calderón isn't all that impressive either. In fact, in the last 20 years, only twice have the rojiblancos won the derbi in front of their home fans. The last time that happened, incidentally, was also back in 1999. As if that’s not enough to create doubt in the players’ minds, Atléti also have a rather dreadful record this season against the big guns.

Aside from the opening day loss to their neighbours, they have also gone down to Barcelona, Espanyol and Villarreal, the three other clubs that make up the top five. But as always, the form book tends to be the first to go straight out the window in these tempestuous encounters, as emotion and passion usually preside over everything else.

Staggering Statistics

There were doubts at the start of the campaign as to whether Bernd Schuster has the pedigree to take charge at a mammoth club like Real Madrid and whether he was the right man to whip Los Blancos' dressing room into shape like Fabio Capello had the previous term.

After some wobbly performances early on, his position in the hot seat was questioned again but as the wins and the points started piling up, the critics and the sceptics have simply run out of bones to pick with the German trainer. The football may not be eye-catching at times but the statistics so far certainly are.

Top of the table with 47 points, it is the best tally by a club at the halfway stage in La Liga since the three-points for a win rule was introduced in 1995. Not only that, they also currently have the best home record with a perfect nine wins from nine games; the best away record with 20 points out of a possible 30; and the best goal difference with 41 goals scored and only 14 conceded.

Those figures are not only the best in Spain but the best amongst Europe's major leagues at the midway stage. But enough about the numbers. Schuster's boys will still have to perform on the night if they want to extend their six match winning streak in La Primera. They will have to dig deep and cast aside the disappointing midweek loss and elimination to Mallorca in the Copa de l Rey and refocus on their league conquest.

FORM GUIDE

Atlético Madrid

Jan 16 Real Valladolid vs Atlético 1-1 (COPA DEL REY)

Jan 13 Atlético vs Valencia 1-0 (LA LIGA)

Jan 10 Atlético vs Real Valladolid 0-0 (COPA DEL REY)

Jan 06 Deportivo La Coruña vs Atlético 0-3 (LA LIGA)

Jan 02 Atlético vs Granada74 1-1 (COPA DEL REY)

Real Madrid

Jan 16 Real Madrid vs Mallorca 0-1 (COPA DEL REY)

Jan 13 Levante vs Real Madrid 0-2 (LA LIGA)

Jan 10 Mallorca vs Real Madrid 2-1 (COPA DEL REY)

Jan 06 Real Madrid vs Real Zaragoza 2-0 (LA LIGA)

Jan 02 Real Madrid vs Alicante CF 2-1 (COPA DEL REY)

TEAM NEWS

Atlético Madrid

Thiago Motta has made a successful comeback from a niggling knee ailment and he is expected to line-up in midfield against the reigning champions on Sunday. He will slot in for the injured Jurado who suffered a relapse of a hamstring strain during Thursday's training session and will be sidelined for at least a week.

Defenders Zé Castro and Giorgios Seitaridis and goalkeeper Leo Franco are the three players who are out for the long haul due to various injuries, but ex-Bernabéu hero José Antonio Reyes has shaken off a minor ankle sprain and will be available for selection, although he is unlikely to play a huge role in the match.

Portuguese midfielder Maniche, meanwhile, has left for Serie A giants Internazionale after agreeing on a loan deal until the end of the season.

Probable Starting XI (4-4-2): Abbiati - Perea, Pablo, Eller, Pernía - Maxi (c), Motta, Raúl Garcia, Simão - Forlán, Agüero

Real Madrid

Schuster will once again have to rely on a modified defence with Christoph Metzelder and Gabriel Heinze still ruled out with injuries while Pepe has been rated as highly doubtful for the clash as he struggles to shrug off an Achilles tendon niggle.

With Sergio Ramos expected to deputize in the centre of defence, Miguel Torres and Michel Salgado will fight for the rightback slot, although the veteran could be favoured to start in order to give the side a more attacking impetus down the flank.

Back up striker Javier Saviola has joined fellow fringe players Roberto Soldado and Javier Balboa in the sick bay, although the pair has resumed light training on the pitch, as has Arjen Robben. Mahamadou Diarra, meanwhile is away on international duty with Mali in the African Cup of Nations.

Probable Starting XI (4-3-3): Casillas - Salgado/Torres, Sergio Ramos, Cannavaro, Marcelo - Sneijder, Gago, Baptista - Raúl (c), van Nistelrooy, Robinho

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Atlético Madrid - Sergio Agüero

The Calderón's new golden boy took less than 60 seconds in the reverse fixture on Matchday 1 to score his very first derbi goal, although he would have gladly traded that off for a win instead. He'll be given a second chance to get a taste of both this Sunday and El Kun is as fired up as any die hard Atléti player and fan ahead of the clash. He'll need to be if he is to beat a certain in-form Los Blancos goalie.

Real Madrid - Ruud van Nistelrooy

Van Gol promptly repaid the club's contract extension with a winning double against Levante last Sunday. After a slow start to the season where he briefly handed goalscoring duties to the likes of Sneijder, Raúl and Robinho, the Dutchman is now firing on all cylinders again having netted five times in his last five league games and when he's got that momentum going, it's pretty hard to put the brakes on him.

MY PREDICTION

Real Madrid's morale would have taken a knock after their Copa del Rey elimination, but they truly relish going up against sides like Atlético, who come out and play instead of parking the team bus infront of the goal. If Javier Aguirre do decide to fight fire with fire and leave the backline exposed, Schuster will feel confident that his side can emulate three of their best away results so far this term: at Villarreal, Valencia and Barcelona.

Atlético Madrid 1-3 Real Madrid

Wenger Looking For Improvement Against Slavia Prague

2007-10-22T06:39:00.000-07:00

Arsene Wenger is 58 today and will mark the occasion by watching Newcastle United take on Spurs on TV while planning Arsenal's Champions League assignment at home to Slavia Prague on Tuesday.

For his 58th birthday present, workaholic Arsene Wenger will be happy if his team produce an improved performance against Slavia Prague than the one which eventually disposed of stubborn Bolton Wanderers on Saturday.

The manager of the unbeaten Gunners, top of the Premier League and turning their attentions back to Champions League business this week, said: “Maybe it’s my birthday, I honestly don’t know.

"I’m 58? Ow! That hurts.

“I have never really been a great one for celebrating birthdays. This year I will be at home, it will just be normal. I will have a little dinner and then watch Spurs.

“It will be a quiet night and I will just prepare for our game with Slavia Prague on Tuesday and watch the game. Annie [Wenger's other half] likes football too — to be honest she has to.

“There’s not much I really need. I have plenty of socks.”

Wenger is not one for relaxing, and he does not want his maturing team to relax either. On Saturday they toiled to break down Bolton's stout resistance in the first-half, when they were guilty of trying too hard to take on Bolton at their own game.

And Wenger said: “The only thing my team can give me for my birthday is to play better against Prague than they did against Bolton.

“You always want people to be better and I want my team to keep the spirit they have right now.

“It didn’t go well in the first half. Bolton went back to their old style which gave them success.

“I can understand it with their position. It wasn’t nasty but one or two tackles were bad.

“The players know we can escape bad tackles by keeping the ball moving quickly.”

Wenger turmed the game with the introduction of substitutes Theo Walcott and Tomas Rosicky on 62 mnutes.

Rosicky found the space that invited Ivan Campo's foul, and from the free-kick Kolo Toure fired Arsenal ahead after 67 minutes.

Then Walcott's good work on the right set up Rosicky for the second on 81 minutes.

After Slavia Prague at the Emirates on Tuesday, Arsenal take on Liverpool at Anfield on Sunday.

Where's the attacking football? Has Schuster been able to deliver the promise?Soc

2007-10-22T06:34:00.001-07:00

Great Expectations

For Real Madrid CF, success is encrypted in their DNA. This is a football club that has won the most number of European Cups, the most La Liga titles and is the official “Club of the 20th Century”.

In fact, Real has been treated almost like an empire. At Real Madrid, they don’t hope; they expect. And when failure to match that lofty level expectation goes spiraling out of control, eccentricity and desperate measures steal in.

You would hardly discern a club axing its manager a few days after winning domestic honours, but at Real Madrid, that's what they do.

The modestly-acclaimed Bernd Schuster was imported into the set-up in the summer at the expense of the unparalleled Fabio Capello, who was guilty of “wining ugly”. Schuster is supposed to be the Messiah who restores the enthralling, out-of-the-world football of the Galactico era.

On the evidence of the first three or four matches in the new Spanish season, it did appear that the German would finally be able to turn the corner and gift the starving Madridistas their deserved dose of entertaining football. Indeed after last season’s gruesome and often faulty Capelloism, the Bernabeu faithful were eager to embrace anything that was even remotely compelling

But now the whispers of resentment are starting to gather momentum, just as last time around. Saturday’s loss to Espanyol, while disappointing, was not a surprise for all fans.

Indeed, some saw it as as a continuation of a string of poor, hanging-on performances that Real have been displaying of late. Schuster might be able to escape by the skin of his teeth this time, with the excuse of most of his major stars returning exhausted from a one-and-a-half week grueling international duty, but that won’t cut ice in the long run.

Time To Improve

At the start of the season, Real Madrid were playing the best football in Spain. After a lackluster pre-season, which was miles shy of inspiring, Real seemed to have clicked into top gear.

They might have required an 80th minute deflected goal to get the better of cross-city rivals Atletico Madrid on the opening day of the new season but there was no doubt as to who was boss when they traveled to Villarreal next weekend.

Kindled by a Wesley Sneijder masterclass of midfield creativity and vision, los Merengues ripped apart Manuel Pellegrini’s promising side 5-0 and scripting themselves into every Spanish newspapers as the likeliest winners of this season’s Spanish championship. Real then managed to win their next 4 matches out of 5 before Saturday’s 2-1 slump to Espanyol at the Olympic de Montijuc.

But there’s no sidelining the stark, naked truth that their style has been gradually dipping its nose. If the 2-0 victory over relegation-threatened Real Betis at the Estadio Santiago Bernabeu illustrated the age-old principle of clutching at the straws until the final whistle, then the narrow 1-0 win over Schuster’s former club Getafe was a farce in so much that Real came out unscathed Hollywood-style from a barrage of Geta onslaught: they didn't deserve to win at all.

Saturday’s defeat to an increasingly-improving Espanyol side, while not a huge shock, still comes as a smack in the face for Real. This is their first defeat of the season and was underlined by a lack of imagination throughout the match.

A disoriented Real team might have been decent in the first 45 minutes on Saturday, but they failed to take the game to Espanyol after the breather, when they clearly were the second best team in the match.

Poisoned Chalice

Yet in spite of the defeat, Real still retain that often ill-fated favourites’ tag. FC Barcelona might have superbly recovered from very, very early season blues, riding on the wave of a wildly rampant Lionel Messi, but the truth is Real Madrid have more depth in their squad than their main challengers Barca do.

Real splashed out heavily during the summer transfer circus like a child with a blank cheque in a toyshop, pocketing the likes of Christoph Metzelder, Javier Saviola, Arjen Robben and Wesley Sneijder, among others.

More star names inevitably enforce squad rotation and at the heart of Real’s smothered football is this numerical abundance that is actually inhibiting the smooth settling down of the players.

Till the last match of the season last year, Fabio Capello could never settle on a regular first string and Schuster is moving pretty much toeing the same line.

His basic formation of 4-4-2 has been kept consistent, with a flat back four screened by the anchorman Diarra, furthered by the presence of a creative central midfielder and two wingers supplying the two strikers upfront, but the personnel have been rotated far too much for anyone’s liking.

And it is in this particular quarter that Real have to change their strategy.

With Raul revealing his vintage touch from time to time, reinvented Guti starting regularly, Arjen Robben dribbling ferociously down the flanks and Sneijder pulling the strings from the midfield, the signs are very good. What Schuster needs to do this stage is decide on his first choice players and proceed accordingly - injuries allowing, of course.

It would be naïve to call the curtains on Real at his point of the title race but with the notorious Real Madrid supporters starting to voice their disgruntlement, Schuster needs to comprehend that Real Madrid need to improve and improve quickly.

Baptista denies the fact that there was any party

2007-10-22T06:26:00.000-07:00

Real Madrid and Brazil forward Julio Baptista, along with teammate Robinho, was dropped for this weekend's visit to Espanyol after returning late from international duty. Now, Baptista denies that they were late because of a party, and insists that the matter has been sorted out...

ulio Baptista has told Spanish sports daily Marca that there is no case to answer regarding an alleged party that kept he and Robinho from returning to Real Madrid.

After Brazil's 5-0 win against Ecuador in the World Cup qualifiers, reports indicated that Madrid pair Baptista and Robinho were out celebrating until the small hours, this being responsible for their late return to the Bernabeu.

This untimely arrival back in Spain meant that they were unable to train in time for Saturday's ill-fated encounter with Espanyol, both being left out.

Baptista has now attempted to publicly clear the air.

"There were problems with air traffic, so we can't be blamed for the delay," he said of the six hour setback.

"Hopefully we weren't affected by this, but because of the flight times we were unable to get to training.

"I understand that if we don't train then we can't play: that's normal. But it still hit us hard."

Indeed, Robinho was cagey about the prospect of any party.

He said, "Who originated the story about the party? I don't know. I don't understand. They should have been talking about [Brazil's] match and how well Robinho played. He played well and that made us all happy.

"There's nothing to deny."

He also said that both he and the club coach, Bernd Schuster, have put the issue behind them.

"Was Schuster angry? No. He talked with us, but wasn't angry.

"He was a bit annoyed, but that's to be expected. We arrived late and couldn't train, so we couldn't play. The boss was calm, though, and there was nothing strange.

"Fines? We've already spoken to him, so everything is cleared up. But from now on we'll need to give more communication so that it doesn't happen again."

The ex-Arsenal man continued, "Our mistake was not telling the club [about the delays]. We should have called to let them know we'd be late. I won't repeat that mistake."

Baptista, 26, was thought to be a candidate for being sold on during the summer, but remains at the Bernabeu. He feels that he will stay after the January transfer window closes, too.

"I have no news [of a winter transfer]," he insisted.

"I'm a Real Madrid player and will continue to be one. We'll talk at the end of the season."

'The Beast' has played just 54 minutes of Liga football this season.

Aragones Defends Raul Decision

2007-10-11T07:05:00.001-07:00

Luis Aragones has broken his silence regarding his decision not to call up Raul for the Spain squad to face Denmark this weekend...

Luis Aragones has pledged that no personal grudge or favouritism has influenced his decision not to summon Raul to the Spain squad.

With David Villa recently pulling out due to injury, many speculated that Real Madrid veteran Raul would be drafted in as a replacement. Instead, on-form Raul Tamudo of Espanyol joined teammate Luis Garcia in the Furia Roja camp.

Now, Aragones has defended his decision in an interview with the RFEF (Spanish Football Association.)

"Of course I can make mistakes, and so can others," he said.

"Perhaps there's no one truth and others have good reasons for what they think. Nonetheless, I believe that my reasons are completely objective, because they are based on the form and the careers of the players."

He said that the long view of players' progress was responsible for his calling up Espanyol's Albert Riera, as "months of following him" have shown that he's ready for international football.

Aragones has come under fire both for his squad selections and a series of questionable performances, culminating in a 1-1 draw with Iceland last month.

That result threw Spain's qualification chances into question, but Aragones insists that the criticism and pressure from the fans will not get him down.

"I thrive on external pressure," he boomed.

"I know what's at stake; I know that I need to do my all, and do it better than ever.

"I don't have to be obsessed by the external factors, but I've gone through similar spells before and I know that I enjoy fighting through them. It's one of the advantages of experience."

Spain are fancied to beat Denmark in Aarhus on Saturday but can take nothing for granted, given their record up until this point. Indeed, Aragones seemed to indicate that a draw might not be disastrous.

The former Atletico Madrid coach shrugged, "The match could be considered a final, so we'll need to commit to it, even though there are more games to come.

"A draw would be a good result, but we're still going to go and look for the win. We have the quality to win there, and it would help our place in the standings.

"Denmark, though, have a very good team, and play particularly well against the higher-ranked countries."

Aragones concluded by defending his side's circuitous route towards qualification, emphasising the closeness of the race. "Except for Germany and the Czech Republic, who are both practically qualified, all others are still fighting for a top two berth," he said.

Luis took over as Spain boss in 2004, following 30 years as a club level manager with the likes of Barcelona, Sevilla, Betis and Valencia.

Soccer Friction Dot com is back

2007-10-11T07:03:00.000-07:00

Due to a problem with my ISP I could not log in to my blog and post. But that problem has now been fixed and My blog is back, back with a bang,.. hopefully.. :D

Francesco Totti: In The 31st Minute

2007-09-27T10:58:00.000-07:00

Totti has a flair for scoring goals. Last season, he scored 26 times for AS Roma and was crowned not only as the Capocannoniere, the award for the topscorer in Serie A, but also as the European Golden Boot Winner.

This season has been no different for the Roman God as he has already scored four goals in as many matches in Serie A. The two spectacular strikes within six minutes against Juventus were a display of what the Roma skipper could inflict on the opposition.

The striker has already outlined his targets for this season and aims to win both the Scudetto and the Champions League. Francesco is just four goals away from scoring 200 for his club.

Totti’s affair with the Italian national team started very well when he helped the team qualify and reach the final of the Euro 2000 where he won the Man of the Match Award against France, despite being on the losing side. The 2002 World Cup ended in a disappointment for Totti as he was sent off for diving against South Korea.

Totti’s Euro 2004 also ended prematurely as he was banned for spitting at Danish midfielder Christian Poulsen. However, he was one of the key players as the Azzurri qualified for the 2006 World Cup in Germany. Totti took part in the tournament with a metal plate inserted in his ankle and played his part as the Azzurri lifted the World Cup last year. Totti was also then selected for the 23 member Master Card All Star Team.

However, Totti has recently retired from international football as he wants to focus more on his club career. Communities and chat rooms dedicated to Totti went berserk as they couldn’t accept the fact they may not see the Roma captain in an Azzurri jersey ever again.

One of the most interesting aspects of Totti is his celebration after a goal. Once, he took off his shirt and had another which read “6 (sei) Unica!” which means “You’re unique”, which was meant for his wife Ilary Blasi. Another is when he kisses his ring finger and looks upwards thanking God. Totti’s first child Cristian was born in November’05 and since then he sucks his thumb as a mark of dedicating his goals to him.

Totti has come out with two self-effacing joke books which were best-sellers for a prolonged time. The money raised is donated to a children’s charity. He is also the UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador. It’s impossible to think of Roma without Totti as he has stayed loyal to the club since the day he began playing professional football.

The influential star is also a fashion icon for millions across the globe. It’s a common sight even in places where Serie A is not broadcast, like in Mumbai, for boys to sport similar hairstyles to Totti.

Totti is currently being lined up for the Golden Ball and players like De Rossi and Adrian Mutu have already voiced their support for the Italian. If Totti wins the Ballon’d Or then he would be the first Roma player to win the most coveted prize since its inception in 1956. With the tenacity of a lion and an eagle’s eye for goals, long may Totti continue his brilliant displays. Happy Birthday Francesco!

What Chelsea Crisis?

2007-09-27T03:12:00.000-07:00

HULL CITY 0-4 CHELSEA

Chelsea opened their defence of the Carling Cup with a comprehensive 4-0 victory over Championship side Hull City on Humberside, suggesting that talk of a Stamford Bridge crisis is somewhat over-stated.

Chelsea cruised past Hull City into the fourth round of the Carling Cup to give Avram Grant his first win as manager, and a welcome respite from negative headlines.

Although the Tigers held Chelsea at bay until the 37th minute, Scott Sinclair's opener - a low drive - put the Blues firmly in the driving seat.

Salomon Kalou headed home the second just after half-time before Steve Sidwell's well-struck drive soon made it 3-0.

And Kalou completed a thoroughly convincing victory by finishing some good work by substitute Joe Cole.

Hull acquitted themselves well but did not look likely to cause a giant-killing upset, even though Grant made seven changes from the team that lost to Manchester United on Sunday.

Chelsea were straight into their stride, forcing five corners inside the opening four minutes, and the Hull keeper, Bo Myhill, was busy keeping out a Sidwell drive and a Kalou shot.

As expected, the home team had a spell of pressure, but Chelsea looked as though they could step it up a gear, and when Shaun Wright-Phillips, threatening throughout the first-half, fired in a cross, there was 18-year-old Sinclair netting the first goal of the Grant era with a curling shot.

If Hull entertained hopes of a comeback, they vanished soon after the break when Chelsea doubled their lead, Pizarro outsmarting the Tigers' defence and whipping over a left-wing cross that Kalou, challenged by Damien Delasney, headed into the net from close range.

Sidwell cracked a swerving 25-yarder to make it 3-0 after only 52 minutes, but Hull did well to stem the tide, and nearly got a consolation when Jay-Jay Okocha's sent a free-kick narrowly over the bar.

Wright-Phillips limped off with what looked like a hamstring injury, but his replacement, Joe Cole, set up the fourth goal wuth an astute pass for Kalou to finish.

Chelsea go down 2-0 against United

2007-09-23T10:23:00.000-07:00

Chelsea succumbed to a 2-0 defeat against Manchester United in what appeared to be a difficult game on a difficult day at the end of a difficult week for Chelsea.

1st half

The match got off to a good start for United as Rooney warmed up Petr Cech's gloves with a curling shot in the 2nd minute.

Chelsea responded 6 minutes later with a great cross from Essien but Shevchenko was slow to react, the ball eventually fell to the feet of Malouda whose pass found Shevchenko but the Ukranian flashed his shot wide.

In the 30th minute Essien carelessly gave the ball away to Rooney with a weak clearance, Rooney whipped over a teasing cross to the far post for Giggs, who elects to shoot rather than head from a very tight angle and lifts it over the bar.

More than half an hour had passed when Avram Grant had his first major tactical adjustment to make as Jon Obi Mikel got himself into a challenge with Evra with his foot slightly raised, Evra wass caught and ref Mike Dean reached immediately for the red card. It looked a little harsh, but Mikel was off and the Blues were down to 10 men.

Despite being a man short, Chelsea continuedto play with more than one man up front, which wass adventurous but created a gap between midfield and attack. United meanwhile remain ed threatening down the right flank in particular.

But then, in first half injury time United took the lead .From a corner which, if successfully defended, would have seen Chelsea safely through to half-time, the ball was cleared to Schloles in a deep inside-right position. Scholes headed an intelligent first-time pass back out to Giggs on the right wing, and Giggs bend in a briliant cross with the outside of his right boot where Tevez beat Cech at the near post with a flying header. Chelsae must have thought everything is against them. That was the first United goal Tevez has scored, and he could not have timed it any better. Very well conceived and executed, but tough on Chelsea, especially coming so late in the half.

2nd half

The second half had a slow start and the bad weather could be blamed for it but on the 58th minute mark A beautiful ball over the top found Giggs roaring in from the left, but the Welshman volleyed it way over. Great idea, poor execution.

Shevchenko was taken off for Kalou and few minutes later Saha came in for Rooney.Sheva got off with a hand-shake from the coach. That's something he hasn't been used to since leaving Milan

Nearly 90 minutes and Tal Ben Haim stocked a leg out and caught substitute Louis Saha, and although the French striker madee a meal of it, it was a definite penalty. Saha dispatchers it himself, straight down the middle, and for the first time this season, United have a two-goal lead

There was two minutes of time added on as the referee finally blowed the whistle and fianlly put and end to Chelsea's misery.

Ibrahimovic Rescues Inter From Livorno

2007-09-23T10:20:00.000-07:00

Livorno 2-2 Inter Milan

Inter hit the self-destruct button several times again in Livorno, going down after a minute against their bottom-of-the-table hosts, and eventually scrapping a 2-2 draw after Maicon was sent off late in the second half for a silly kick at Erjon Bogdani.

Livorno played with a 3-5-2 formation with Alessandro Diamanti and Erjon Bogdani up front, while Inter lined up with a 4-4-2 formation with Adriano and Zlatan Ibrahimovic as strikers.

After just one minute, Livorno were in front as Ivan Cordoba made a glaring mistake on a long pass from midfield. He completely missed the ball, allowing Daniele De Vezzi to take the ball and he easily beat Julio Cesar.

The hosts were dangerous again in the fifth minute, when a dangerous shot by Diamanti fired a shot from outside the area that went just wide.

Inter reacted in the 7th minute, when Adriano and Ibrahimovic played a nice one-two before freeing up Maicon for a shot, which was well saved by Marco Amelia.

In the 9th minute, there was the first of several controversial episodes in this match as defender Nicolas Burdisso seemed to handle the ball inside the area as he had a tussle with Diamanti. The referee ignored the incident, however.

A minute later, Adriano missed the first in a series of great chances, as his back-heel was cleared off the line by Simone Pavan with Amelia well beaten.

Then came a slower period of the match, before an incredible goalmouth scramble in the 26th minute saw Inter come agonizingly close to scoring. First Adriano fired a shot on the post, then two shots from Esteban Cambiasso and Aparecido Cesar had to be cleared off the line by the Livorno defence.

Replays showed that De Vezze may have touched the ball with his hand during that confused move. A few minutes later, Adriano again came close to scoring as he dribbled past Amelia and fired a precise diagonal shot, which only a great clearence by Fabio Galante prevented from going in.

In the 35th minute, Inter finally found a deserved equaliser when Ibrahimovic finalised a counterattack with a shot under the crossbar from a perfect pass by Maicon.

Inter continued to attack in the final part of the first half, but there were no more chances for either side, as an entertaining first half came to an end on a 1-1 tie.

The Nerazzurri started the second half well, with Ibrahimovic dangerous on a couple of occasions around the 7th minute, but first Amelia managed to grab his shot on a cross by Cesar, and on the second occasion he was stopped by the Livorno defence as he tried to dribble his way through.

Surprisingly, Livorno took the lead again around the hour mark, when substitute Luis Jimenez made a dubious foul on Nico Pulzetti, and the referee awarded a penalty. Massimo Loviso took the spot-kick and made it 2-1 to Livorno (61').

Inter were initially shocked by this new setback, but found a way back into the game ten minutes later, when another penalty was given, this a much clearer one as Ibrahimovic was held back by substitute Rahman Rezaei. The Swede converted the penalty to make it all square again (72').

However, Inter's rotten luck this afternoon continued when Maicon decided to have himself sent off as he kicked out at Bogdani in the 81st minute. But that was not all: a minute later, Ibrahimovic had the ball in the net, but due to a very narrow offside position the goal was called off.

In the final minutes, with Inter reduced to ten men, there was still time for Livorno to make themselves dangerous, but twice the excellent Julio Cesar was alert on shots by Bogdani.

Ultimately though, neither side seemed likely to win it in the final minutes, and the 2-2 draw reflects the way this game went. It's a disappointing result for Inter, who were hoping to bounce back from their defeat to Fenerbahce in the Champions League, but had a wrong approach to the match once again. Meanwhile Livorno, who had started the season with two big defeats, will be overjoyed at this draw against the champions.

Inter remain second with 8 points, but they are joined by Fiorentina and Atalanta, while leaders Roma are two points ahead with 10 points. Livorno obtain their second consecutive draw.

Danilo Pochini

MATCH STATS

LIVORNO-INTER 2-2

GOALSCORERS: 1' De Vezze (L), 35', 71' Ibrahimovic (I), 61' Loviso (L)

LIVORNO (3-5-2): Amelia; Knezevic, Pavan (71' Rezaei), Galante; Balleri (68' Grandoni), Pulzetti, Loviso, De Vezze (54' E. Filippini), Pasquale; Bogdani, Diamanti. In panchina: De Lucia, Alvarez, Tavano, Tristan. All.: Orsi

INTER (4-4-2): Julio Cesar; Maicon, Cordoba, Burdisso, Maxwell (55' Jimenez); J. Zanetti, Stankovic, Cambiasso, Cesar; Ibrahimovic, Adriano (68' Cruz). In panchina: Toldo, Samuel, Dacourt, Figo, Crespo. All.: Mancini

REFEREE: Trefoloni

BOOKINGS: Knezevic, Pavan, Galante, and Bogdani (L); Maxwell and Cambiasso (I)

SENDINGS OFF: 81' Maicon (I)

All Square In Rome After Epic Roma 2-2 Juventus

2007-09-23T10:12:00.000-07:00

Vincenzo Iaquinta scored a late equaliser to earn Juventus a 2-2 draw in Rome in a phenomenal game that more than lived up to it's billing as the game of the season.

Iaqunita headed home in the 87th minute from a Giorgio Chiellini long-throw just as it looked like Roma were going to earn their fourth consecutive Serie A win of the new season.

Earlier Francesco Totti had scored twice for Roma to turn the game on it's head after David Trezeguet had given the Bianconeri an early lead. Alessandro Del Piero also missed a penalty in an action-packed encounter at the Stadio Olimpico.

First Half

Roma were hoping to continue a stunning start to the season which had seen them win all five of their competitive games without conceding a goal. Coach Luciano Spalletti named the same team that were so impressive in the Champions League against Dynamo Kiev in midweek.

Juventus boss Claudio Ranieri lived up to his 'tinkerman' tag by unleashing an attacking 4-3-3 formation with Alessandro Del Piero, David Trezeguet and Vincenzo Iaquinta upfront.

Zdenek Grygera returned from injury to play at right-back but the Bianconeri were without the injured Mauro Camoranesi, Marco Marchionni, Jean-Alain Boumsong, Sergio Almiron and the suspended Jonathan Zebina.

Roma started strongly and created the first big chance of the game on 10 minutes, when Francesco Totti put Marco Cassetti through with a fantastic reverse through-ball and Juve keeper Gianluigi Buffon had to pull off a superb save to turn his shot around the post.

Juventus hit back immediately and were unlucky when Doni's flap at an Iaquinta cross fell kindly to a Roma defender. Their misfortune did not last long as Juventus surprisingly took the lead on 16 minutes. Good work by Del Piero released Iaquinta whose cross found Trezeguet's bullet header from eight yards. It was the Frenchman's 100th goal in Serie A.

Roma tried to respond and De Rossi's shot from the edge of the box was deflected into the arms of Buffon. Amantino Mancini was also booked for simulation after trying to con the referee into giving a penalty.

However Juventus were close to extending their lead when a superb free-kick from Del Piero finished just inches over the bar. Doni was rooted to the spot. Spalletti was then forced into a change after Cassetti pulled up with an injury and the right-back made way for ex-Real Madrid man Cicinho.

Within 60 seconds of the Brazilian's introduction, Roma had drawn level through their talismanic captain Totti. Domenico Criscito demonstrated all his inexperience by getting too tight to the forward and Totti spun him easily before curling the ball delightfully past Buffon.

Five minutes later Roma were in front. Again Totti was the scorer. Mancini found space down the left and his cross ricocheted into the path of Aquilani whose shot was superbly saved by Buffon. The world's number one goalkeeper could do nothing on Totti's follow up however. Again Criscito was to blame for the goal as he allowed Aquilani to get goal-side of him. The youngster was having a dreadful afternoon.

Juventus showed their fighting spirit and nearly got back on level terms immediately. Iaquinta's knock-down found Del Piero whose volley was brilliantly parried around the post by Doni. In first-half injury time The Golden Boy's free-kick caused all kinds of problems in the Roma area and Nedved's flick-on was deflected just wide. Nicola Legrottaglie replaced the disastrous Criscito at half-time as Ranieri aimed to shore things up in defence.

Second Half

Within four minutes of the second-half the Bianconeri wasted a golden opportunity to level the scores. Nedved was felled in the area by a combination of Cicinho and De Rossi and referee Emidio Morganti pointed to the spot. Del Piero stepped up but quite incredibly blazed well over the bar. It was most uncharacteristic of the forward, who is renowned as a penalty-kick specialist.

Roma should have made Del Piero pay for his miss on 51 minutes but after good work by Rodrigo Taddei, Perrotta contrived to fire over an open goal.

Juventus were then dealt a massive blow when star defender Jorge Andrade was stretchered off with an injury and replaced by veteran Alessandro Birindelli. This left the Bianconeri with the rather shaky-looking central defence partnership of Birindelli and Legrottaglie.

Within a minute of the change Juventus again nearly fell further behind. Totti's thunderbolt of a free-kick was parried by Buffon and the keeper then got up to make a stunning follow-up save on Mancini.

Roma were by now completely dominant but instead of trying to push on and look for a third goal they made the mistake of keeping possession and merely controlling the game in midfield. Nevertheless on 79 minutes, Perrotta again missed an excellent chance. Cicinho's cross found the ex-Chievo man completely unmarked in the middle but he headed wide.

Juventus were looking like a tired and beaten team with only Iaquinta, who had been impressive all game, showing any kind of spark. With three minutes left Roma were made to pay for taking their foot off the gas as Iaquinta silenced the Olimpico with a goal completely out of the blue. A long throw from Chiellini looked harmless enough but the ex-Udinese striker got in front of Cicinho and looped a header over the stranded Doni. What a game!

Raúl's 15th anniversary as a Real Madrid player

2007-09-21T01:44:00.000-07:00

Raúl played for Real Madrid's Under-17s when he joined the Club and, through the years, has become the team's leader on and off the pitch. He's also showcased his love for the Club and looked to achieve every possible personal and collective goal. Raúl's been here for 15 years and he expects to remain many more.

On 20 September 1992, at 15 years of age, Raúl joined Real Madrid's Under-17s, coming from the youth system of eternal rival Atletico Madrid. In his last season at Atletico he scored 55 goals, getting the Whites interested in him. Fifteen years have passed since then and the player has scored 452 official strikes with Real Madrid and 61 with Spain.

His first game as a Real Madrid player was against Alcalá, contributing to the 5-0 victory with one goal. He hasn't stopped scoring since and has become the all-time top scorer of the European Cup (57) and the third in Real Madrid's history (272) behind Di Stéfano and Santillana. In his second season at the Club he joined the Under-19s, eventually getting promoted to Real Madrid C in the 1994/95 campaign. That same year he made his debut with the first team against Zaragoza at La Romareda.

His goals and his drive have helped Real Madrid win five Leagues, three Champions Leagues, three Spanish Super Cups, two Intercontinental Cups and one European Super Cup. His excellent performances made him an unquestionable starter on the Spanish national team, becoming its captain after 44 fixtures. His impressive figures have made him one of the most important players in the history of Real Madrid, playing in 613 games -third in ranking after Santillana (643) and Sanchís (712)-.

The captain has had a brilliant start to the 2007/08 campaign so far. He's recovered his position as a striker and has already scored three goals -two in the League against Atletico and Villarreal, and one in the Champions League against Werder Bremen-.

Real Madrid's 30th League title last season was the player's fifth so far. Raúl is a true captain, a symbol of this Club, the player every new footballer on the team looks up to. Madridista above anything else, Raúl represents the values of this Club: drive, perseverance, work, humility, and human and football quality. In these past 15 years, Raúl has proved that the secret to his success is his devotion to the Club, to whom he still gives his all in every game.

Raul's my all time favorite player. The greatest player to have worn the Spanish colors. He has been grossly maltreated by Mr Aragones. He may not be the best player, but he never complains- takes all responsibility and plays for the team, even out of position. He has suffered for club and country, thank God club is beginning to put him back in position that makes him shine.

Gracias ala capitan!!!!!

Courtesy : Real Madrid Dot Com

Arsenal Sweep To Victory Over Sevilla

2007-09-20T01:32:00.000-07:00

Arsenal's excellent start to the season continued with a valuable and ultimately comprehensive victory to open their Champions League campaign. A deflected first-half shot from Cesc Fabregas, a close-range tap-in by Robin van Persie from a Fabregas free-kick and a late third by substitute Eduardo that crowned another slick passing move saw Sevilla comprehensively beaten.

The Spanish side looked a little wanting at this level, at least against a side who,, for all their youth, have considerable Champions League experience.

The games against Sevilla were always going to be the toughest for Arsenal in Group H, and their confidence will be boosted by this result, and performance.

It was a thoroughly professional display by Arsene Wenger's team, and while the three goals were extremely welcome, the manager will also be delighted with a clean sheet.

Kolo Toure was alert and industrious at centre-back, whil the two full-backs, Bacary Sagna and Gael Clichy were outstanding, with Sagna's bursts of space down the right often electrifying. Fabregas was again authoritative in midfield while Emmanuel Adebayor got through a prodigious amount of work leading the line.

There was also a competritive edge to Arsenal's game that underlined their development since last season.

Sevilla, on their Champions debut, were a little disappointing on a what proved to be a difficult night for them. But they started confidently, and the lively Navas rifled in an early shot that Manuel Almunia was happy to see narrowly clear the bar.Fredi Kanoute also went close for the visitors.

But Arsenalwere dangerous on the attack themselves - though there was a slice of luck about their opening goal. A long-range shot from Fabregas deflected in off Julien Escude to wrong-foot Palop and put Arsenal ahead at the break.

Robin van Persie made it 2-0, tapping in alertly when Sagna cleverly headed on a Fabregas free-kick.

From that point Sevilla never threatened a come-back, and the Gunners capped things off in stoppage time when Eduardo applied a cool finish to a sweet passing move that featured Alexander Hleb and Fabregas.

Adebayor deserved a goal and nearly got one when he produced a diving header from Sagna's curling cross that shaved the outside of the post.

When Daniel Alves managde to whip in a cross from the right, Sagna was first to the ball and cleared the danger.

Then Eduardo added the icing on Arsenal's cake.

Arsenal: Almunia, Sagna, Toure, Senderos, Clichy, Hleb, Fabregas, Flamini, Rosicky, Adebayor, Van Persie. Subs: Fabianski, Diarra, Diaby, Denilson, Silva, Eduardo, Walcott.

Sevilla: Palop, Daniel, Fazio, Escude, Dragutinovic, Jesus Navas, Poulsen, Marti, Diego Capel, Luis Fabiano, Kanoute. Subs: De Sanctis, Duda, Kerzhakov, Renato, Keita, Boulahrouz, Maresca.

Mourinho quits Chelsea!!!

2007-09-20T01:26:00.000-07:00

Chelsea have confirmed reports that they've unexpectedly parted company with manager Jose Mourinho after a crisis meeting this evening.

A brief statement on the Blues' official website, read: "Chelsea Football Club and José Mourinho have agreed to part company today (Thursday) by mutual consent."

Mourinho is reported to have text messaged five senior players this evening to tell them that he is leaving the Blues, who could only draw at home with Rosenborg in their opening Champions League tie on Tuesday.

The set-back followed disappointing results in the Premiership against both Aston Villa and Blackburn, results that had left Mourinho visably on edge.

The Portuguese coach was said to have fallen out with owner Roman Abramovich last season, although the dispute was believed to be behind the pair. However, poor form plus difficulties with star names Andriy Shevchenko and Michael Ballack appear to have put further strain on their relationship.

The 'Special One' still had three years left on a contract, worth a staggering £6.5m a year, but Abramovich is believed to be prepared pay a huge slice of that in order to end their relationship.

Mourinho arrived at Chelsea having won the Champions League with Porto in 2004 and he continued his success with back-to-back Premiership titles. However, last season Manchester United beat the Blues to the league crown, although they did manage to lift both domestic cups.

Reports have immediately linked Sevilla boss Juande Ramos with the job and ironically the Spaniard is already in London having seen his side lose 3-0 to Arsenal in their Champions League encounter this evening.

It seems more than likely that current Russia coach Guus Hiddink will also be considered among the frontrunners for the job.

CL Preview: FC Barcelona - Olympique Lyonnais

2007-09-19T07:27:00.001-07:00

FC Barcelona only need to look at their opponents Olympique Lyonnais on Wednesday night to draw inspiration after a slow start to the season.

The Blaugrana have come under increasing pressure to start performing after producing another lacklustre away day display against Osasuna to add to the drab opener against Racing.

In between their was an encouraging win over Athletic, but even that came thanks to a penalty and a dubious goal in a game that the Basque Country side could have taken something from.

Lyon were in the same boat after three matches of the Ligue 1 season as they were beaten by Toulouse and Lorient after opening with a win.

Alain Perrin's credentials as coach were called into question as many wondered whether the all-conquering side's days as champions were numbered.

Bouncing back

Having won the league for the last six seasons, Lyon knew what they were capable of and ignored the criticism, instead aiming on working hard to eradicate their mistakes and build confidence.

The plan worked perfectly as they now head to Camp Nou for the Champions league encounter having won their previous four league matches.

Any remaining critics were truly silenced at the weekend when Lyon went to Metz and dished out a 5-1 hammering to their hosts and reminded everyone that they are after a seventh title on the bounce.

Barça should take note as too many more displays like the one produced on Sunday and the premature calls for Rijkaard to go could grow into a chorus.

No guarantees

The Madrid-biased press have been basking in the Blaugrana's failure to impress after a summer of hype about the 'Fantastic Four' and it is Marca and AS that are making up stories about the Dutch coach's future.

Quite what is wrong at Camp Nou is hard to identify and, as yet, cannot be blamed on too many stars in the changing room, as many have predicted.

A spending spree of close to €70m does not guarantee success, but it is the fact that there is no spark that is causing the biggest concern.

Spark is not something that Lyon are lacking after their recent run and Lilian Thuram believes that they will arrive with a plan to win the game.

RECENT FORM

FC Barcelona

16/09 A Osasuna 0-0
02/09 H Athletic Bilbao 3-1
26/08 A Racing Santander 0-0

Olympique Lyonnais

15/09 A Metz 5-1
01/09 H Le Mans 3-2
29/08 A Sochaux 2-1

TEAM NEWS

FC Barcelona

Lionel Messi was left out of the squad against Osasuna, but only as a precautionary measure after he reported back from international duty with a calf strain and should be declared fit to face Lyon. Samuel Eto'o is out with a thigh injury, while Carles Puyol and Edmílson are also both still sidelined.

Probable Starting XI: Valdés, Zambrotta, Abidal, G. Milito, Thuram, Touré, Xavi, Deco, Ronaldinho, Henry, Messi.

Olympique Lyonnais

The French champions travel to la Ciutat Contal with Gregory Coupet and Cris still out with long-term injuries. Fred is suspended for the opening game of the group stage, but Perrin will be able to call upon Benzema or Ben Arfa to play up front.

Probably Starting XI: Vercoutre, Grosso, Squillaci, Cléber, Clerc, Toulalan, Källström, Bodmer, Juninho, Govou, Benzema.

PREDICTION

Barça will certainly have to raise their game on the biggest stage, but with the talent and experience in their side that should not be a problem and a game of this magnitude could even spark their season into life. Lyon will be confidence as they head into the game, but the Camp Nou is an imposing venue and playing at home always lifts the Blaugrana. While the talk of the visitors looking to attack may have some truth behind it, Perrin will know that even earning a point away from home against the group favourites will set his side up nicely. The hosts will have different ideas however and should just sneak it.

FC Barcelona 2 - 0 Olympique Lyonnais

Magical Pirlo Leads Milan To Important Win

2007-09-19T01:17:00.000-07:00

Milan 2 – 1 Benfica

A goal and an assist from Andrea Pirlo handed AC Milan a deserved win over Benfica at the San Siro.

He was a major doubt until the last minute, but in the end, Andrea Pirlo recovered for this first match of the Champions League group stage and ended up being the man of the match thanks to a wonderful goal and a splendid assist.

Milan dominated from start to finish, though Benfica had some good chances against the run of play, and in the end it was a deserved win for the European Champions who started their title defence in style.

Milan pressed on the accelerator from the first minute, and in the very 8th minute the Italian side could have taken the lead through Ambrosini following a very good move by the Rossoneri, but the Milan captain’s effort went wide from inside the penalty area.

However, Pirlo made up for this missed opportunity a minute later when in the 9th minute he curled a beautiful freekick from the left side which Quim was unable to stop.

The home team kept pressing forward and first Inzaghi and then Ambrosini could have doubled the score, but luck and Quim stopped the Rossoneri from going two up in the first 15 minutes. Yet again it was Quim who stopped Inzaghi as the Portuguese side’s goalkeeper made a decisive save on Inzaghi in the 21st minute.

Benfica finally got into the game after 20 minutes without doing much upfront as Rui Costa tried his luck from the edge of the penalty area, but Dida reacted well and punched the ball away.

A minute later Benfica had a golden opportunity to equalize when Rodriguez incredibly enough hit the post in an empty net one metre away from the goal line.

As the action progressed, Kaka stole the ball away from the Portuguese players and after running for almost the entire pitch, he assisted Pirlo all alone on the right hand side, where the silky midfielder sent an inch perfect ball towards Inzaghi in the middle of the penalty area, who thanks to a half volley managed to beat Quim for the 2-0.

After 23 minutes Benfica were already two goals down in their best moment of the game, but this resulted as a wakeup call for Camacho’s lads who started playing on the same level of their opponents from then onwards.

Still, despite Benfica enjoying a good ball possession, it was Milan who went closest again when Kaka failed to connect an assist from Oddo in front of goal in the 35th minute. Two minutes before it was Rui Costa who could have pulled one back for the visitors, but once again Dida made a brilliant save to deny the Portuguese side.

The second half proved to be a more balanced affair as Benfica kept on playing like they did in the second part of the first half. However, Kaka tried to add his name to the scoreline in the 55th minute as he accelerated on the right hand side before entering inside the penalty area and having his shot parried by Quim.

Jankulovksi proved to be a thorn in the Benfica defence as he became more active offensively in the second period with various accelerations which ended up with him trying his luck and going close on a couple of occasions.

Despite Benfica holding a good ball possession, it was Milan who kept going close to add another goal and in the 65th minute Inzaghi managed to miss a sitter from just a few metres away from goal as his shot went over the bar.

Three minutes later Oddo tried his luck from the long distance, but Quim deflected the shot with his fists. In the 70th minute Katsouranis copied the Italian fullback and even this time the opposing goalkeeper, Dida, managed to parry the shot.

In the 75th minute Emerson made his Champions League debut for Milan as he substituted Seedorf in the middle of the pitch.

Quim produced a fantastic double save in less than 30 seconds as first he blocked a tap-in by Inzaghi from close range, then he saved his goal from an Emerson lob in the 77th minute.

In the 87th minute Camacho substituted Assis with Rui Costa, and the former Milan player received a standing ovation by the San Siro crowd.

In the last minute of stoppage time, Benfica succeeded in finally pulling one back through Nuno Gomes but that was too little too late for the Portuguese side who will have to target a win in their next Champions League clash in order to remain in the race for the qualification to the next phase.

On the other hand, Milan proved that the Siena game was forgotten and that the European Champions are back in Europe to defend their title. This result allows the Rossoneri to start in the best possible way their Champions League commitments and can therefore look forward to the remaining encounters in this group.

STARTING LINE-UPS:

MILAN (4-3-2-1): Dida; Oddo, Nesta, Kaladze, Jankulovksi; Gattuso, Pirlo, Ambrosini; Kakà, Seedorf; Inzaghi.

BENFICA (4-4-1-1): Quim; Luis Felipe, Edcarlos, Miguel Vitor, Leo; Pereira, Rodriguez, Di Maria, Katsouranis; Rui Costa; Cardozo.

Raul and Van Nistelrooy does it for Madrid

2007-09-19T01:10:00.000-07:00

Real Madrid 2 - 1 Werder Bremen

Ruud Van Nistelrooy scored a second-half winner for Real Madrid as they saw off the challenge of Werder Bremen in an abosrbing encounter in the Santiago Bernabéu on Tuesday evening.

The Dutchman's goal ensured that Bernd Schuster began his first European adventure in charge of los Merengues with a win after Raúl had netted the opener before the break.

Werder made a real game of it as they refused to sit back and defend in numbers after equalising through Boubacar Sanogo and always looked capable of taking something from the encounter.

With both sides keen to make an impression the game started at a frantic pace, but neither keeper was troubled until the 13th minute when Tim Wiese caught an ambitious long range effort from Wesley Sneijder.

Just two minutes later and the opening goal arrived as Van Nistelrooy edged down the left of the area before clipping the ball into the near post where Raúl headed inside Wiese's near post to put Madrid ahead.

The home fans were still celebrating when Werder equalised as Dusko Tosic curled in a cross fom the left lank and Sanogo edged in front of his marker to toe poke the ball goalwards and was delighted to see Casillas let it slip through his hands and into the net.

As the visitors maintained their two-pronged attack and held on to the belief that a flat back four would be good enough to prevent Madrid from running awya with the game, it provided plenty of space for the two teams to play in.

That resulted in a quick pace being maintained and surging runs creating an end-to-end spectacle, but therewere still not many clear chances in front of goal.

Higuaín went close eight minutes before the break with a curling shot that just swerved past the far post, while Daniel Jensen kept Casillas on his toes with a drive from outside the area.

Schaaf appeared to give his players orders to continue pushing forward and in the first few minutes of the second period Werder pressed Madrid back with Diego pulling the strings.

At the other end Gonzalo Higuaín fired over the bar before Jurica Vranjes failed to connect with the ball and shot wide after a strong run from Diego.

Hugo Almeida's introduction added some extra spice to the visitors' attack and he had an early shot that flew just wide of the goal,before Wiese denied Van Nistelrooy at close range.

With 16 minutes to go one team finally gave way and it was Werder that were unable to prevent a clinical Madrid attack from finding its way through.

Guti rolled the ball into Raúl and the skipper flicked it out to the Van Nistelrooy who sent the keeper the wrong way by shaping to shoot in the far corner before rolling it inside the near post.

It was a fine finish from a player that had looked slightly out of sorts in front of goal earlier in the game, but he will grab the headlines tomorrow.

Werder did give up and continued to steel the ball in midfield and test the Madrid back-line, but they were unable to truly open up the home team's defence before the end.

Arjen Robben made his official debut when he replaced Raúl seven minutes from the end and the summer signing was given a rousing ovation, although there was scant time for him to make an impression.

Raul might carry on playing for many more years

2007-09-13T06:56:00.000-07:00

Real Madrid's fitness coach Valter Di Salvo has accorded that Raul could continue playing for the Los Meringues for another 8 to 10 years or so if he is careful and follows a careful training regime.

"Creating an individual work programme helps to prolong the career of a footballer," he said.

"It is possible to be on active duty until 37, 38 or 40, such as Maldini at Milan.

"It is not true that a footballer's career is finished at 30. If he is careful, he trains very very well and he has the luck not to suffer injuries, he can play for many years.

"Ryan Giggs is nearly 34 and has more than 700 games behind him. The professionalism of a player also helps a great deal in this aspect," added the Italian, who was previously at Manchester United before moving to Real.

"As with Raúl, with such high professionalism that he has, the way he takes care of himself, I am sure he will play many more years at Real Madrid."

Raul has showcased his quality once more by scoring twice in his team's opening two games and is closing in on the 200-goal mark for the Spanish giants during his career.

My opinion : It is axiomatic to note that Raul is the face of Spanish football. A veteran with exceptional ability on and off pitch. A successful leader with a work-man like attitude! He is a role model for the young players around the globe. He is a phenomenon with a unique character that is rare to find in today's modern era.

Ronaldo might face doping probe

2007-09-11T09:55:00.000-07:00

Nothing ever goes smoothly for Ronaldo. The player's controversial recovery in Brazil will soon come to an end, the Milan striker set to return to the San Siro within 48 hours, but the gene therapy that he has undergone in Rio could constitute doping - according, at least, to Luigi Frati of the Italian National Olympic Committee...

Ronaldo could face a doping enquiry upon his arrival in Italy, according to Italian National Olympic Committee president Luigi Frati.

The striker, whose Brazilian doctors accused AC Milan of botching his rehabilitation, has been undergoing a form of gene therapy in Brazil in the hope of hastening his recovery.

The treatment consists of taking protein strands from the player's blood and injecting it into the damaged portion of his body - the thigh - in order to speed up tissue regrowth.

Luigi Frati contends that this could constitute illegal doping, and has hinted at the prospect of an inquiry into the player's treatment upon his arrival back in Italy.

Ronaldo is expected to return to Milan within the next two days, when he will learn of his fate.

The player was expected to have made his comeback to first team football by now but his injury has not progressed at the rate expected by the AC Milan medical and coaching staff.

Frustrated, he returned to Brazil for more treatment, Milan only reluctantly allowing him to stay as long as he did in his country of birth.

Ronaldo arrived at the San Siro in January this year from Real Madrid. He has scored seven times in fourteen league appearances for the Rossoneri.

New Ballack row in Chelsea over filming

2007-09-11T09:51:00.000-07:00

A new row has erupted over Michael Ballack, with Oliver Bierhoff accusing Chelsea once again.

Germany general manager Oliver Bierhoff has hit out once against at Chelsea, this time over the club not allowing the player to travel to Germany for a photo-shoot.

The shoot was for the launch of the German national team's new kit for the 2008 European Championships.

The player was forced to return to London on Sunday after not being granted permission to participate on Monday, which has left both both the German Federation (DFB) and sponsors Adidas fuming.

Said Bierhoff to Bild: "This is not how you treat a German international, especially the captain of the team."

Adidas also sponsor Chelsea, and Ballack himself has a personal contract with the German sports goods manufacturers.

"It's not correct that they [Chelsea] treat us and their own partner Adidas in this way," continued Bierhoff. "It seems this club has other methods."

Beirhoff revealed that Peter Kenyon's assistant had fax-ed a statement denying Ballack the permission.

However, Chelsea have denied the entire episode, saying: "Michael was given permission to attend the photo shoot."

It appears that he was, but only after Adidas themselves stepped in on Monday. However, the player was already back in London, and the DFB chose not to make him fly back and forth again.

My blog's not getting good traffic regularly anymore

2007-09-09T10:37:00.000-07:00

Are you a regular visitor of soccer friction? Well, I am here to inform you that my blog's not getting as much traffic as it used to get a week or two ago. So I am finding it simply pointless to post every single day and update my visitors with the latest news on soccer. Previously I used to blog about a lot of topics but after my posts that dealt with soccer started getting more hits I decided to buy a domain and changed my blog's topic only to soccer. Honestly I don't care about my earnings as long as I am getting a decent number of visitors and feedback regularly. But when you are not getting visitors for a fairly long time and no feed-backs or comments you are ought to get disappointed. Whatever, I am gonna see whether my regular visitors respond to this post or not.ma If it still doesn't work I think I will have to sell my domain and it will be the end of soccer friction.

Regards,
Shahir, admin of soccerfriction
santino_elmadrid@hotmail.com
shahir-pro@soccerfriction.com

San Siro Stalemate For Italy And France

2007-09-09T09:14:00.000-07:00

Italy 0 - 0 France

After all the pre-match drama, a goalless draw between Italy and France was something of a disappointment. Neither side could find that killer touch as a largely midfield-based match ended in a 0-0 draw at the San Siro. There were spells of fine play from each side, but the Azzurri in particular will reflect on what might have been, rather than what was. Find the report and all the reactions below.

Italy and France battled to a goalless draw at the San Siro, neither side showing dominance over the other in what was largely a cagey encounter.

The Azzurri enjoyed a good spell with two excellent chances in the first half, but could not make their advantage count. Only in brief spells did they show invention, and their late surge at France perhaps came a bit too late.

Meanwhile an energetic and streetwise Bleus outfit had their own opportunities and desire about them, but were debatably always the more likely of the two to end the game goalless.

The match kicked off with France coach Raymond Domenech watching from the stands, the manager serving out his UEFA-sanctioned suspension following inopportune comments in the media about the state of the Italian game.

In his place sat Pierre Mankowski, assistant coach. While Domenech did not anticipate too many problems resulting from his touchline ban, he remarked before the game that he'd briefed Mankowski on "forseeable" substitution scenarios.

Anything else was, apparently, to be covered via telepathy.

Marco Materazzi of Italy, meanwhile, also enjoyed a bird's eye view of the pitch, although the injured defender would presumably have rather been out there playing than nursing an injury.

In "Matrix's" place came Palermo's Andrea Barzagli, while veteran pairing Alessandro Del Piero and 'Pippo' Inzaghi led the line up front as Luca Toni missed out.

France, matching their hosts' 4-4-2, put their faith in Nicholas Anelka and Thierry Henry in attack, while the rest of the lineup was changed due to injury problems.

With Gregory Coupet out, Mikel Landreau started in goal, while William Gallas failed to regain fitness in time to take part at the back.

The first half passed without goals, Italy just about shading it on the balance of play, although France showed that they were willing to fight for the tie.

Indeed, the early moments passed in the form of a midfield battle, Claude Makelele playing the part of midfield enforcer with perhaps too much relish five minutes in as he appeared to elbow Del Piero. The Chelsea man picked up a yellow card for his troubles.

There were few chances early on, and the first clear-cut one ended in disaster for France. Bayern Munich's Frank Ribery put in some good movement down the right to feed Nicholas Anelka in the box, only for the Bolton man to completely fluff his effort.

Italy decided to take the game to their opponents, Del Piero looking lively on the edge of the box, and the Juventus stalwart might have given his side the lead just after the half hour, had his effort been a little more vicious.

"Alex" picked up the ball from Camoranesi inside the box, but Mikael Landreau of PSG proved the equal of his rather disappointing effort.

Then came the best effort of the half, from 'Pippo' Inzaghi. His looping effort smacked off the crossbar to break San Siro hearts.

That could have been the start of a real period of domination for Italy, but instead France re-established their rhythm, looking fairly comfortable until the interval.

Indeed, they even found the wherewithal to test Buffon, but the Juventus stopper easily dealt with Malouda's long-range effort.

The second half started in somewhat more lively fashion, Barzagli nearly heading home an Andrea Pirlo corner three minutes in, but Landreau got across well to save.

This was perhaps the golden period for chances, particularly for the French, Anelka nearly getting on the end of a through ball only to be denied by Buffon, and Cannavaro soon after had to be at his best to deal with a roving Ribery ball.

Italy were in danger of dropping out of the game, with Del Piero looking increasingly exhausted and isolated up front, but France could not press in this fleeting moment of advantage, and the scores stayed level heading into the hour mark.

Indeed, Thierry Henry showed the visitors' frustrations, bringing down Cannvaro for a booking as Italy regained the momentum.

Camoranesi came off for Perrotta while, minutes later, the fruitless Inzaghi-Del Piero partnership was broken. Shakhtar Donetsk forward Cristiano Lucarelli came on for the Milanese in an attempt to revitalise a tired-looking Italian front line.

Instead, both teams appeared to slow down some what - Italy, perhaps, even moreso. Clear cut chances were at a premium and, while France showed more energy, the Italians had enough know-how at the back to keep them out, particularly the brilliant Cannavaro.

The final minutes, however, saw a reversal. Italy, perhaps touched by the urgency of the situation, began to press and show flashes of great pace. Nonetheless, they could not take advantage of the three minutes of injury time, and the tie ended goalless.

After all the hype, then, the end result was a largely even encounter, and one without too much by way of drama. While the home side arguably had the bulk of the attacking play, it is the visitors who will leave happier - and still in pole position in Group B.

ITALY 0 - 0 FRANCE

Italy: Buffon; Oddo, Cannavaro, Barzagli, Zambrotta; De Rossi, Gattuso, Pirlo, Camoranesi (Perrotta 58); Del Piero (Di Natale 83), Inzaghi (Lucarelli 65).
Yellow Cards: Gattuso 31, De Rossi 86

France: Landreau; Lassana Diarra, Thuram, Escude, Abidal; Ribery (Toulalan 86), Makelele, Vieira, Malouda; Henry, Anelka.
Yellow Cards: Makelele 5, Henry 56

Ref: Lubos Michel (SVK).

Spain Held By Iceland As Alonso Sees Red

2007-09-09T09:09:00.000-07:00

Iceland 1- 1 Spain

Spain blew the chance to move into second place in Group F as they were held to a draw by a strong Iceland side that belied their lowly status in the group after Xabi Alonso had been sent off in the first half.

The Liverpool midfielder saw red after appearing to stamp on Arnar Vidarsson and the Spanish were left to reorganise their side to cope with the dismissal.

Before the break the hosts took advantage of their numerical superiority as Emil Hallfredsson headed home the opening goal, but Iniesta earned a point for the visitors late in the second period.

In the build-up Luís Aragonés had warned that Iceland were not an easy team to play and he was proved right, but was not helped by his own side's lack of spark when going forward.

With the stadium in Reykjavik being buffeted by wind and rain, la Selección did not look comfortable and their opponents were raising their game in a bid to come away with a surprising result.

As they were harried and hassled in midfield in the opening minutes, Xabi Alonso was not happy about a challenge from Vidarsson and as the two collided the Spanish player kicked out and was sent for an early bath.

Aragonés chose to switch to three at the back and keep his attacking options the same, but the plan always looked problematic as Iceland went close on two occasions soon after.

Joey Gudjonsson and Gunar Thorvaldsson steered their efforts wide of Iker Casillas goal, but when the third clear chance came Iceland took it.

A first-time cross from the right by Gudjonsson found Hallfredssson unmarked at the far post at the former Tottenham winger headed the ball into the opposite corner to send the home fans into raptures.

As legs began to tire after the break, the home team opted to sit back and attempt to soak up the pressure being applied on them by an ever more desperate Spain team.

Despite being pressed back for the majority of the half Árni Arason did not have the busiest evening of his career, while at the other end Casillas was twice called upon to save effort from Thorvaldsson and Grétar Steinsson.

Five minutes from the end the pressure finally told when Iniesta broke through the back line and slid in an equaliser to net his third international goal and snatch a point for Spain.

It was not a convincing performance as Aragonés side lacked spark with or without all their players on the pitch and they will have to improve before hosting Latvia on Wednesday.

What do you think? Is Spain missing the inspirational presence of Raul?

England Cruise To Israel Victory

2007-09-08T10:01:00.000-07:00

England have produced their best performance under Steve McClaren in beating Israel 3-0 at Wembley to give their Euro 2008 hopes a massive boost.

The victory moves England above Israel and into third place in Group E with four matches left to play.

The visitors were disappointing and never presented England with any real concern as Wembley witnessed the first victory for England since its reopening thanks to goals from Shaun Wright-Phillips, Michael Owen and Micah Richards.

McClaren elected to start Emile Heskey in attack alongside Michael Owen, while Gareth Barry was handed his first England start in seven years as Owen Hargreaves failed to prove his fitness in time to make the clash, but Steven Gerrard was in the centre of midfield despite the concern over his toe injury.

The recall of Heskey to the international set-up took many by surprise, so to see him in the starting line-up was quite a shock, although with no Wayne Rooney, Peter Crouch or Darren Bent the options were limited. The Wigan striker, who previously has a successful partnership with Owen at Liverpool and England, had the games first opportunity, but he blasted the ball over the bar after Own haid the ball off.

It proved to be the first of many chances as the first half was very much all one-way traffic, although the home side had a nervy moment before the offside flag came to their rescue.

The star of the show was arguably Wright-Phillips, who caused Israel all-sorts of problems on the right-flank, but it was a ball into him that led to the breakthrough. A dangerous cross into him from the creative Joe Cole was converted by his Chelsea team-mate at the far post.

England did not sit back on their lead and played some confident and convicing football as McClaren's gambles paid off with Owen and Heskey linking up well, while Gareth Barry, who was so strangely neglected by Sven Goran Eriksson, helped Gerrard dominate in midfield.

Owen was denied by the face of goalkeeper Dudu Auoate before missing his rebound, while he was inches away from getting on the end of Shaun Wright-Phillips' cross before the end of the first half.

However, the goalscorer got his name on the scoresheet in the second half with one of his best goals in and England shirt. The Newcastle midfielder collected a pass from Cole and on the half volley smashed it past Auoata to relax the home crowd.

A brief nervy momeny in England's defence passed by and the home team wrapped up the win with a header from the brilliant Micah Richards, although the visitors were not impressed with a collision between the goalkeeper and Owen just before Richards headed home.

There was a distinct lack of anything for goalkeeper Paul Robinson to do other than to punch away a cross, but a cleansheet is what he needed following the criticism he faced in the aftermath of the recent friendly defeat to Germany.

Owen came close to adding a fourth but was denied on the line, but England got the win they needed and more importantly claimed the confidence booster ahead of Wednesday's match with Russia, who today defeated Macedonia 3-0.

England introduced Phil Neville, Andy Johnson and David Bentley in the second half with the latter interestingly being booed by the home fans, presumably over his decision to refuse to play in this summers European U-21 Championships.

Man of the Match - Shaun Wright-Phillips