Tournaments World Football

Request Madrid Zidane Recruit Hazard

2010-12-01T04:22:00.000-08:00

Real Madrid's honorary ambassador for Zinedine Zidane to ask his club to immediately recruit talented young players from the club Lille, Eden Hazard, a performance in Ligue 1 invites click amazed.

Candidates for the future of the Belgian star was invited clicking sound public admiration and praise from Lille and a number of European clubs reportedly also is working toward.

At the age of 19 years, he has been able to penetrate the main squad Lille and became one of the players who have bright prospects.

Talent maturity that had not previously been known by top clubs in Europe, but now his admirers continue to grow every he appeared on the pitch.

Spanish giants Real Madrid is one of them are keen to get close to Hazard and he admitted interested to play at the Santiago Bernabeu.

Real did not want to spit these prospects, but Zidane's request for quick recruitment process be completed if the candidate does not want to lose the star of the future.

"What did he do to Lille so far is very brilliant, considering his age is quite young," said the former retainer of the French national team.

"I have spoken to Madrid about the hazard, but not yet to Jose Mourinho. But I think he will soon find out.

Serie A Italy Football: AC Milan Beat Udinese 3-2

2010-11-14T20:36:00.000-08:00

Hunteelaar bring AC Milan to the runner up

AC Milan 3 Udinese 2

Serie A Italy Football 2009/2010:
AC Milan Beat Udinese 3-2

AC Milan ended its defeat in Serie A Italy Football by overcoming Udinese win 3-2. Two Rossonerri were scored by Klaas Jan Huntelaar. These results bring Milan rose to the position of runner-up standings. Milan against Udinese at San Siro on Saturday (13/2/2010) morning pm. In addition to two goals from Huntelaar, Milan goalkeeper tore through the Friuli forces Alexandre Pato. While scoring Udinese booked through Floro Flores and Antonio Di Natale.

This is the first victory Il Diavolo Rosso in four of their last official party. Additional three-digit Leonardo bring troops up to the second rank. With 45 points, Milan are a point ahead of AS Roma and the remaining eight digits of capolista Inter Milan. Meanwhile Udinese's position has not changed that in the 15th position with 24 points.

Players line up:

AC Milan: Dida; Abate, Nesta, Thiago Silva (Bonera 40'), Favalli, Gattuso, Pirlo, Ambrosini, Mancini (Pato 13'), Huntelaar, Ronaldinho (Beckham 77')

Udinese: Handanovic; Isla (Lodi 60'), Zapata, Coda, Pasquale, Sammarco (Pepe 72'), Asamoah, Inler, Sanchez, Floro Flores (Geljo 72'), Di Natale

English Premiere League: Arsenal Beat Liverpool 1-0

2010-11-01T07:48:00.000-07:00

EPL Football big Match, Arsenal Vs Liverpool

Arsenal Beat Liverpool 1-0

Results 1-0 of Liverpool not only marks the opening of Arsenal chance to compete again won the British League. Create Arsene Wenger, it was the 300th victory in the Premier League. After humiliated Manchester United and Chelsea, three points were finally able to get entertain Arsenal at Liverpool. Although slightly dominate, the Gunners won 1-0 with difficulty through Abou Diaby scored in the second round. Since starting his career in the English League, also with Arsenal, in September 1996 ago, this was the 300th victory Wenger. At the highest caste of English football, the French guy was a total of 512 games already done, with 130 action end in a draw and the remaining 82 ending in defeat.

Wenger became the second coach who won 300 victories in the English League. The first person who did it was none other than Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson, who now have collected 440 victories since arrived at Old Trafford in 1986 ago. Back to Wenger, the French guy was a total of 773 games already done with 'Bullets Warehouse Team' in any event. Of these, 450 of which ended with the victory, a draw and 180 action the rest of the defeat of 143. Thus quoted from the official site the Gunners.

UEFA Champions League Soccer: Barcelona vs FC Copenhagen

2010-10-21T22:09:00.000-07:00

UEFA Champions League Soccer 2010/2011 Season

Gerarrd Pique, young defender of FC Barcelona in UCL Football

Nou Camp stadium for UEFA Champions League Barcelona vs FC Copenhagen

Joseph Guardiola in UEFA Champions League Barcelona vs FC Copenhagen

Barcelona beat FC Copenhagen 2-0

Barcelona Football Club plays its next UEFA Champions league match against FC Copenhagen, Denmark. This match is held in Camp Nou Stadium, Barcelona's home base. Barcelona FC needs to win for getting the top position in its group. and as the result, Barcelona beat FC Copenhagen 2-0 in this match. All of goals are scored by Lionel Messi. Now, Barcelona FC is being on the top position of its group with 7 points.

Beausejour to miss Arsenal match

2010-10-10T15:49:00.000-07:00

Birmingham City's Jean Beausejour has been ruled out of next weekend's match at Arsenal through injury.

The Chilean international was lacking match fitness after signing on the final day of the summer transfer window from Mexican side Club America. Now Alex McLeish's £3.3m capture is sidelined with a knee ligament strain.

McLeish said: "Jean came to us half fit and hadn't played many games and that is part of the problem when you sign players right at the end of the transfer window. Now he's strained his medial ligament and we have to make sure we don't take any unnecessary risks with him.

home fixture

McLeish had hoped Beausejour would be fit to return following the international break after being left out of the home fixture with Everton last weekend.

But he needs more rest and recuperation and will not be risked at the Emirates Stadium.

McLeish added: "He needs to rest to make sure he is right and he won't be available next weekend."

Beausejour has still to start a Barclays Premier League match for Blues although he impressed in the Carling Cup win over MK Dons.

source:http://www.premierleague.com

Kuyt: Partnership can flourish

2010-10-01T17:32:00.000-07:00

Liverpool forward Dirk Kuyt remains confident he can forge a partnership with striker Fernando Torres.

The pair drew a blank in the goalless Europa League draw in Utrecht on Thursday night in a match of few clear opportunities.

Torres had one genuine chance midway through the second half when Kuyt crossed to the near post but the Spaniard's first-time shot was well saved by goalkeeper Michel Form - although referee Duarte Gomes did not spot the touch and awarded a goal-kick.

source:http://www.premierleague.com

A World Cup to remember

2010-09-14T08:07:00.000-07:00

The 2010 FIFA World Cup concluded in fine style with the Spanish national side raising the coveted trophy as champions for the first time. As the curtain falls on this historic event, fans reflect on what made the tournament so special for them.

Clad in their national colours, Spanish fans celebrated as they left Soccer City stadium for the last time, as victors of the 2010 FIFA World Cup. With tears of joy in his eyes and his hand on his heart, Juan Toral stood with the profile of the stadium behind him, amazed that out of the 64 games, 32 teams and many weeks of football, his team will return home as world champions. “I never thought I would live to see this day,” said Toral. “Tonight we showed the world we are the best, this is a dream come true. Thank you to the people of South Africa.”

“It is an amazing day,” said Carlos Cuadrado. “We as the fans of Spain will remember this day and this tournament forever. South Africa will always be special for us, the country will always be in our hearts and minds.”

Results aside, many visiting fans have travelled to South Africa for the first time and will return home with fond memories of the hospitable nature of the country. “South Africans have welcomed us all over,” said Spaniard Raul Rodriguez. “It is an incredible country. The atmosphere is fantastic, the landscape is beautiful and people are really friendly. South Africa is on the right path to become a greater country.”

“I have been very impressed with the support for my team. I have never seen so many Spanish flags outside of my own country, “ added Rodriguez.

For Luiz Goncalves, a Brazilian fan, the hosting of a successful tournament in South Africa has changed his perceptions of the continent, “This is the way a World Cup should be. It has been amazing here and we hope Brazil can do the same as South Africa and host a great World Cup. I've told all my friends back in Brazil that Africa is living la vida loca.”

Many fans returning home will offer a different perspective of the host country. “It is not like I read about before coming here,” said Chantal Schinkels, a Dutch fan who has flown to South Africa and followed her team over the last three weeks. “This tournament has changed the view around Africa and South Africa. People have enjoyed it around the world and I have heard only positive news in the press. This is something I will tell my grandchildren about.”

The FIFA World Cup is the pinnacle of international football and as such the tournament offers fans the unique experience of seeing so many stars performing at the highest level. “This final marks our twentieth game in the tournament and I have loved the football,” said local resident Dicky Naiker. “To see players such as Torres and Drogba playing here in South Africa makes us proud. Them coming here, to our country, is mind blowing. I hope the World Cup comes back in my lifetime.”

For Zimbabwean national Aaron Chinhara, the World Cup has renewed his love for Africa. “Today I am proud to be African. Throughout this tournament we have seen people from all races, tribes, creeds mingling together nicely. This is a step ahead. We are no longer the continent of disease and poverty, but the continent of joy, happiness and good.

source:http://www.fifa.com

Elly Tran with World Cup 2010

2010-09-04T09:34:00.000-07:00

Mick McCarthy

2010-08-28T20:49:00.000-07:00

McCarthy won many plaudits for keeping Wolverhampton in the top flight in 2010 following promotion from the Championship the previous season.

The Molineux club finished in 15th place and surprised many by securing Barclays Premier League survival with matches to spare.

McCarthy has managed in the top-flight twice before. He had a short spell at the helm with Sunderland in 2003/04 when the club suffered relegation, before he returned to the top-flight with the Black Cats in 2005/06.

After a playing career with hometown club Barnsley, Manchester City, Celtic and Lyons, central defender McCarthy joined Millwall, initially on loan as a player in 1990.

At the tender age of 32, he was appointed the Lions' manager in 1991. Three years later the club narrowly missed out on promotion to the Premier League.

In 1996, Barnsley born McCarthy took over as Republic of Ireland manager, the country he represented as a player, leading the team to the 2002 Wold Cup Finals, where they reached the last 16 of the competition. After guiding the side to 13th in the FIFA World Rankings, he resigned from his post in November 2002.

Soon after, he was appointed manager of Sunderland in March 2003, replacing Howard Wilkinson. With the club struggling prior to his arrival, McCarthy was unable to prevent their relegation from the Premier League and their campaign ended with a then record low of 19 points.

However, under McCarthy the Stadium of Light outfit won promotion at the first time of asking, resuming their place in the top-flight in 2005/06. The Black Cats struggled to make the grade in the top-flight once more and McCarthy left the club in March 2006.

After a few months out of the spotlight, he replaced Glenn Hoddle at Wolves in July. In his first season in charge the club was forced to sell many of their first team players. Against the odds, McCarthy led the side to the play-off semi-finals, where they suffered defeat at the hands of eventual winners West Bromwich Albion.

The following season, the club finished seventh, losing out on a play-off place only on goal difference. The 2008/09 season started brightly for Wolves and McCarthy, and rarely did they look out of place at the top of the Championship.

The club won promotion to the Barclays Premier League on 18th April 2009, courtesy of a 1-0 victory over Queens Park Rangers, with the Championship title being secured the following week. McCarthy was honoured for his achievements, winning the Championship Manager of the Season Award.

And the former Republic of Ireland manager went one better by keeping Wolves in the top flight despite many pundits predicting instant relegation.

source:http://www.premierleague.com

Arsenal capture Squillaci

2010-08-26T13:53:00.000-07:00

Gunners manager Arsene Wenger confirmed that the deal for the 30-year-old centre-back had been sealed after the Spanish club accepted an offer last week.

Squillaci will not play in Saturday's Barclays Premier League game at Blackburn Rovers but will be eligible for the Champions League campaign.The former Lyon centre-half, who joined Sevilla from Les Gones two years ago, asked to be left out of the side for the Champions League play-off against Braga last week so he would not be cup-tied for European competition.

Squillaci will strengthen an Arsenal rearguard weakened by the departures of William Gallas, Mikael Silvestre, Sol Campbell and Philippe Senderos.

Wenger confirmed: "We needed a centre-back of quality and experience if possible, and at the right price - he was all of that.

"He is a real defender and is good in the one against one, good in the air, and can score goals on set-pieces as well.

"I believe he will be suited to the English game. He will train with us tomorrow morning, but will not be involved on Saturday."

Wenger continued: "I made a bid on the day Sevilla played in the Champions League, so he did not play as he was waiting for the transfer.

source://www.premierleague.com

The Premier League

2010-08-21T20:23:00.000-07:00

Manage, continually improve and be regarded as the world's best league football competition - on and off the field.

Increase interest in our competitions, promote accessibility to live games and ensure that media exposure is used to optimum effect.

Generate increased commercial value, using the resulting revenues to further enhance our competitions and strengthen the long-term future of the Premier League and its clubs.

Use our power and influence responsibly to improve the game in this country and abroad through partnership with the FA, UEFA and other bodies.

Create a quality of competition that provides a platform from which our member clubs can achieve unparalleled success in European or World competitions.

Use our resources to develop playing talent that will provide for international success with the England team at all levels - with the status of World Champions being the realistic goal.

Our relationship with the clubs

The Premier League is owned by 20 Shareholders - the member clubs, whose membership in the league is dependent on the performance of their football team in the Barclays Premier League.

The shareholders meet quarterly. Any shareholder can table a motion to be discussed at the meeting. Each shareholder is entitled to one vote and all rule changes and major commercial contracts require the support of two thirds of the clubs voting at a general meeting.

The Football Association is also a special shareholder. They have the right of veto in certain crucial areas, such as the appointment of Chairman and Chief Executive and promotion and relegation, but have no say on other areas of Premier League work.

The day-to-day business and statutory company responsibilities are handled by the Board of Directors, which comprises of Chairman and Chief Executive, and the full-time members of staff at the Premier League.

Shareholder meetings are held every other month during the season and the AGM is a two-day meeting held during the close season.

At the Summer AGM, relegated clubs will transfer their ordinary share to the promoted clubs.

The Premier League & other football bodies

The Barclays Premier League is widely regarded as the elite club competition in world football.

Like every other league in England, the Premier League comes under the jurisdiction of the Football Association (the FA) and must submit its rules each year for approval and sanction.

The FA's primary objective is to develop the game at all levels, from the England national team down to grass-roots football and youth academies. Along with its British partners in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, the FA comes under the control of the European governing body - the Union of European Football Associations (UEFA).

Formed in 1954 and based in Geneva, UEFA works and acts on behalf of the member associations to promote football and ensure its well-being on the continent. The organisation is responsible for many high-profile competitions, some involving national teams such as the prestigious European Championships. UEFA's premier club competitions are the European Champions League and the UEFA Cup, in which Premier League clubs aspire to compete and succeed on a yearly basis.

The FA and the 50 other associations of UEFA are all affiliated with the world's governing body - the Federation of International Football Associations, or FIFA.

The scope of FIFA's roles and duties has vastly expanded in recent years, and the body is supported in its task of organising, promoting and developing football by the six confederations across the globe. The AFC in Asia, CAF in Africa, CONCACAF in North and Central America and the Caribbean, CONMEBOL in South America, the OFC in Oceania and UEFA comprise 204 member associations in total.

FIFA, formed in 1904 and now one of the world's biggest sports organisations, strives to safeguard the game's good image and it is responsible for the Laws of the Game, which are based upon the rules that were first ratified in 1886.

The rules and regulations are discussed on a yearly basis by the International Football Association Board, which comprises four representatives of FIFA and one each from England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, acknowledging the significance of the British associations in the history of the game.

FIFA can also boast the World Cup as its prized asset the ultimate stage on which a professional footballer can perform and a tournament which captures the imagination of the entire planet.

Eagles grounded as Baggio wakes

2010-08-16T11:26:00.000-07:00

After Cameroon’s dramatic run to the quarter-finals of the 1990 FIFA World Cup™, there were high hopes for Africa's representatives at USA 1994. The continent had three places for the first time and the Indomitable Lions were there again, still with the evergreen Roger Milla, as well as Morocco, who had become the first African side to reach the second round in 1986, and, finally, newcomers Nigeria.

One of the biggest mysteries going into the tournament, the Super Eagles turned out to be the break-out stars of the bunch, surpassing by some way Cameroon and Morocco who claimed only a point between them. By advancing to the second round – where they would be felled by the just-stirring giant that was Italy – the green-clad Nigerians captured the imagination and kept alive African football's exciting emergence. Join FIFA.com as we look back at the match that ultimately shattered their American dream and launched the Roberto Baggio-inspired Azzurri on their way to the Final.

The stakes
In the short view, a place in the last eight was riding on the last-16 tie between Nigeria and Italy at Foxboro Stadium outside of Boston. In the long view, Nigeria stood at the precipice of history, within touching distance of Cameroon's achievement of four years before with a guaranteed spot in the pantheon if they could overcome the three-time world champions.

The Super Eagles had served notice of their intentions in the US with a resounding 3-0 defeat of eventual semi-finalists Bulgaria in their opener. That match provided Nigeria with perhaps their most memorable FIFA World Cup moment: Rasheed Yekini's ecstatic celebration – arms through the net, tearfully clutching his face – after scoring his country's first-ever finals goal. The west Africans recovered from a subsequent narrow 2-1 loss to Argentina with a 2-0 win over group whipping boys Greece to finish top of the table on goal difference and were now poised to pluck the Italians from the vine.

If the Nigerians were surprised to have the world's gaze turned on them, the Azzurri, who had finished third as hosts four years earlier, were mortified by their performance to that point. They had yet to fully recover their way after a stunning 1-0 loss to the Republic of Ireland, and their golden boy, Baggio, had yet to find the net despite being one of the most heralded stars heading into the finals. The Italians beat Norway and drew with Mexico to limp into the second round as one of the better third-placed sides. But by the end of their extra-time slugfest with Nigeria, the Europeans and their striking talisman would start to look more and more like the slow-starting, Paulo Rossi-led champions of Spain 1982.

The story
Italy pressed hard right from the start to try to unsettle their less experienced rivals. Wearing all white instead of their usual blue, they found a few early half-chances, but it was the confident Africans who struck against the run of play. Finidi George's whipped-in corner in the 25th minute was deflected by captain Paolo Maldini straight into the path of Emmanuel Amunike. The 23-year-old reacted instinctively in the six-yard box, flicking the ball past the outrushing goalkeeper with the outside of his left boot.

Arrigo Sacchi’s Italy were hardly built for offensive firepower, especially with Baggio shaken, and a brutally hot day did them no favours. Full of self-belief, the Nigerians defended solidly even without usual captain Stephen Keshi, who had been left on the bench by coach Clemens Westerhof, while central midfielders Jay Jay Okocha and Sunday Oliseh – aged just 20 and 19 respectively – were strong and supremely comfortable on the ball.

George and Amunike offered Nigeria pace in abundance down the flanks, and the threat of counterattack kept the Europeans off balance for the rest of the first half and into the second. Most of Italy's threats were coming from set-pieces, the most promising a short corner that worked its way to Dino Baggio at the right post, but goalkeeper Peter Rufai made a spectacular reaction save to his left.

Things got even worse for Italy in the 75th minute when Gianfranco Zola was sent off just 10 minutes after coming on as a substitute. The diminutive forward had undoubtedly unleashed a rash attempt at a tackle on Augustine Eguavoen after losing the ball in the Nigeria area, and he crumpled to the pitch crying "no, no, no". In disbelief, Zola stood by the touchline refusing the leave as Nigerian players offered their condolences. Italy, however, continued to dictate the action as Nigeria retreated into their own half to run out the clock. They were just two minutes away from doing that when Baggio began his march into the history books.

A quick move down the right fed Roberto Mussi, who did well to carry the ball into the box. He slid it perfectly into the path of Baggio, who forgot his struggles and with his first touch calmly slotted the ball inside the left post from 14 yards out. The 'Divine Ponytail' was in full swing, celebrating for the first time in the tournament – just when needed most. And after Dino Baggio's flicked ball into the box for Antonio Benarrivo drew a clear penalty in extra time, there was no question who would take it. Undone with two minutes to go in regulation time, Nigeria could find no way back despite an ugly late miss by Yekini, and the day belonged to Baggio.

The star
The joy that swept Roberto Baggio's face after his equaliser had handed Italy a lifeline was clear and obvious. But there was also a determination there, a look that was still in place when he put the ball on the spot for his 100th-minute penalty kick. Just like his equalising shot seemed to have eyes of its own, his penalty pinged off the inside of the post with the goalkeeper left lunging the other way. Form restored, Baggio went on to strike the winner in the quarter-finals against Spain and a brace against Bulgaria in the last four.

What they said
"The game is never finished until the referee blows the last whistle. You don't rejoice. We were holding the ball, playing tap-tap-tap, and we just lost concentration. When you have players like Baggio, they punish you for mistakes like that," Nigeria midfielder Finidi George.

What happened next?
After leading the Azzurri to the Final against Brazil, a partially fit Baggio missed the last spot-kick of a post-match shoot-out to hand the South Americans the USA 94 title. Italy would have to wait until Germany 2006 to win their fourth world crown. Nigeria coach Westerhof resigned soon after the match, but their surprise performance in the United States gave way to perhaps their finest moment – a gold medal at the 1996 Olympic Football Tournament. They would make the second round just as impressively at France 98 only to crash out 4-1 to Denmark.

source: http://www.fifa.com

Fantasy opens its doors

2010-07-31T16:36:00.000-07:00

This week, coaches formally handed in their provisional squads for the 2010 FIFA World Cup™, a move that sent many fans into a fever as they agonised over squad inclusions and exclusions.

For fantasy managers, the announcement means that it’s time to register your fantasy teams and prepare for the launch of the McDonald’s 2010 FIFA World Cup Fantasy game on 4 June. The game launch takes place shortly after the announcement of the final 23-man squads for all participating 2010 FIFA World Cup teams. To register your fantasy team now, click on the 'Register for Fantasy' link to the right of this article.

The Grand Prize for the overall winner of McDonald’s 2010 FIFA World Cup Fantasy is a Kia car. There will also be tons of prizes up for grabs up in each of the sevens rounds.

Why should I play McDonald’s FIFA World Cup Fantasy?
It’s competitive, it’s free to play, it’s packed with prizes and it makes watching FIFA World Cup matches even more exciting.

When can I start playing?
Fantasy managers will be able to step into the market and start selecting their 23-man squad from 4 June. Until then, fantasy managers will have to content themselves with registering, picking team names, setting up private leagues and familiarizing themselves with the game format and rules.

New fantasy format
McDonald’s 2010 FIFA World Cup Fantasy is significantly different from its predecessor - McDonald’s 2010 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers Fantasy. Be sure to use this time before the game launches to read up on all the game rules and FAQs. There will also be a fantasy feed running throughout the tournament; the feed will provide fantasy managers with the latest news, tips, announcements and game information.

McDonald’s 2010 FIFA World Cup Fantasy is just one of the many games, competitions and features available to FIFA.com Club members. If you have not already, join the Club and enjoy exclusive access to 2010 FIFA World Cup content and competitions

source: http://www.fifa.com

Young stars shine at Chile 2008

2010-07-29T04:26:00.000-07:00

The FIFA U-20 Women's World Cup Chile 2008 will be remembered for various reasons: it yielded more goals than any of the three previous editions of the competition, it produced the 300th and 400th goals in the tournament's history and it also saw USA win the trophy for the second time. But, above all, it will be remembered for the legacy it has left the host nation.

The Chilean government gave its wholehearted backing to the event, rebuilding four stadiums to stage the matches. Furthermore, the Chilean FA (ANFP) underlined its commitment to women's football before the tournament even started by supporting the creation of an exciting new league championship and assisting the women's U-20 national team with its preparations for the big occasion.

And although the Rojitas failed to win any of their three games and fell at the first hurdle, they delighted the local fans with their courageous performances, which bode well for the future. Likewise, the response of the fans throughout the tournament showed that women's football has its place in South American society, which has traditionally been far more supportive of the men's game.

Aside from this cultural advance, Chile 2008 also saw the United States regain the trophy they first won at the inaugural competition at Canada 2002. Coach Tony DiCicco, who guided the Stars and Stripes to glory at the FIFA Women's World Cup USA 1999, worked his magic once more with a new generation of exciting talents spearheaded by strike duo Sydney Leroux and Alex Morgan and goalkeeper Alyssa Naeher. Between them Leroux and Naeher also accounted for the three main individual awards.

The Americans sealed their return to the top in style, seeing off reigning champions Korea DPR in the final, who bounced back from defeat to Brazil in their opening game to mount a strong defence of the title they won at Russia 2006. Refusing to panic after seeing his side go down to the South Americans, coach Choe Kwang Sok was confident his side would shake the jetlag out of their system and regain the solidity that has made them so feared. Their subsequent progress proved him right and only the superior finishing of the US strikers prevented his charges from retaining the cup.

Time to reflect
Despite making a winning start against the Koreans and sauntering into the last eight, the Brazilians failed to reach the semi-finals for the first time. Blessed with a wealth of gifted individuals, the Canarinha nevertheless showed a lack of tactical nous in their quarter-final against Germany, falling to a disappointing defeat that showed they still have much to do to compensate for the departures of Marta and Cristiane.

Their Latin American colleagues all have room for improvement as well. Chile, Mexico and Argentina failed to progress beyond the first round and will have to wait another two years at least before they can make the big breakthrough.

Perhaps the biggest surprise of the tournament, however, was the elimination of China PR in the group phase. Runners-up in 2006 and 2004, the vaunted Chinese kicked off with an underwhelming draw against Argentina before losing to France, with victory against USA's second-string coming too late to save them. Although their coach said they had travelled to Chile to learn, much more was expected of them.

One side who can be content with their showing are France, who finished fourth after reaching the semis for the first time ever. And it could have been so much better for the Bleuettes, who will no doubt be ruing a late and costly lapse in concentration in their semi-final meeting with Korea DPR. Even so, with Eugenie Le Sommer's intelligent play, Nora Coton Pelagie's goalscoring instincts and the strength of Marie-Laure Delie, the French have the potential to achieve great things in the future.

Japan are another side with grounds for optimism. The Young Nadeshiko's attractive passing game drew warm applause wherever they went, with midfielder Natsuko Hara the pick of a talented crop. What the Asians now need to work on is their mental game.

New Zealand also deserve an honourable mention. The Antipodeans are improving with every tournament and were only denied a place in the knockout rounds when England grabbed an injury-time equaliser in their final group game. With no fewer than nine U-17 players in their squad, however, the Young Football Ferns have their sights firmly set on Germany 2010.

Thanks Chile, it was great. Bis bald in Deutschland!

Participants
Argentina, Mexico, Chile, Brazil, Canada, England, France, Germany, China PR, Congo DR, Norway, Japan, Korea DPR, New Zealand, Nigeria and USA

Stadiums and venues
Estadio Municipal de La Florida (Santiago), Estadio German Becker (Temuco), Estadio Francisco Sanchez Rumoroso (Coquimbo), Estadio Nelson Oyarzun (Chillan)

Final standings
1. USA
2. Korea DPR
3. Germany
4. France

Rising stars
Sydney Leroux (USA), Erika (BRA), Alex Morgan (USA), Natsuko Hara (JPN), Rita Chikwelu (NGA) Alyssa Naeher (USA), Nicole Banecki (GER), Eugenie Le Sommer (FRA), Tony Duggan (ENG), Rosie White (NZL), Ra Un Sim (PRK), Ri Jong Si (PRK), Kim Kulig (GER).

Fair Play award: USA

Total goals: 113

Leading scorers
5: Sydney Leroux (USA)
4: Ri Ye Gyong (PRK), Alex Morgan (USA), Eugenie Le Sommer (FRA)

source:http://www.fifa.com/u20womensworldcup

Asian celebration at Russia 2006

2010-07-29T04:24:00.000-07:00

The recently concluded FIFA U-20 Women's World Championship Russia 2006 was an unmitigated Asian success story, with the continent's two top sides confirming themselves as the new standard bearers in women's youth football.

Korea DPR's coronation provided the biggest surprise of a spectacular three-week competition that illustrated both the continued evolution of the women's game and the emergence of some prodigiously talented individuals.

Read on as FIFA.com takes a look a back at the main talking points from this year's competition.

Koreans crowned, Ma honoured

When Korea DPR defeated reigning champions Germany on the opening day of the tournament, no-one knew whether it was a case of beginner's luck or the emergence of a serious contender for the crown.

Needless to say, as the competition progressed, Choe Kwang Sok's side dispelled any doubts about their potential with a series of efficient displays inspired by the likes of playmaker Kim Kyong Hwa, defender Hong Myong Gum and striker Kil Son Hui.

While the North Koreans were steering a faultless course through the early rounds, China PR peerless captain Ma Xiaoxu set about the task of leading the Steel Rosebuds to similar heights. Such was the contribution made by Ma to her team's cause, in fact, the player had the tournament's top two individual awards - the adidas Golden Shoe and Golden Ball, for top scorer and best player respectively - to offer some consolation for her side's second-place finish.

By the time the tournament reached its climax on 3 September, the two Asian sides found themselves in opposite corners in a reprise of the AFC Asian U-19 Women's Championship final they had contested just months earlier. On a night when torrential rain and slippery conditions did its best to put a damper on festivities, Korea DPR did not put a foot wrong, inflicting a painful 5-0 defeat on their Asian rivals to deservedly lift the world crown.

For the second edition in a row, the Steel Rosebuds could have no complaints about having to make do with the runners-up spot.

Brazil bag bronze

The Canarinhas were dealt a serious pre-tournament blow when it was confirmed that they would travel to Russia without the mercurial Marta after her club side denied her permission to play.

However, even without their star player, the South Americans still managed to secure a creditable bronze, and in the process end an ill-fated sequence that had seen them lose the third-place play-off at the two previous editions.

Despite not showing their customary attacking flair - they scored a mere four goals in six games - Jorge Barcelos' girls battled through to the last four and finally secured a podium finish after beating the USA on penalties. With no Marta, the skill and speed of Fabiana were vital, as was the shot-stopping ability of goalkeeper Barbara, who was a key factor in her side's excellent defensive record.

Germany, meanwhile, were unable to replicate the glory days of Thailand 2004 and crashed out at the quarter-final stage against a USA side that improved steadily as the tournament wore on. Although the defending champions bounced back from an early reverse against the Koreans with emphatic back-to-back wins in their group, they were simply outclassed by the impressive US, who racked up a 4-1 quarter-final win.

The Americans' coach, Tim Schulz, made full use of his squad, rotating his players without impinging on either the team's balance or effectiveness. In the end, however, two things prevented them enjoying a better finish: their inability to turn spells of dominance into goals, and their misfortune from the penalty spot. In fact, it was back-to-back penalty shoot-out defeats, in the semi-final and match for third place, which denied them the kind of success that, with a little more luck, could have been within their reach.

Encouraging signs and a few disappointments

Another side unable to improve on their showing of two years ago were hosts Russia, who bowed out after a 4-0 mauling at the hands of China PR in the last eight.

Afterwards, a disappointed Russia coach Valentin Grishin rued the injury problems and fatigue which he said had affected his team's displays. Whatever the reasons, the performance of star players like goalkeeper Elvira Todua and striker Elena Danilova fell well below expectations, the former showing uncharacteristic nerves in front of her home support, and the latter failing to find the target throughout the entire tournament.

The elimination of Nigeria and France, while perhaps more dramatic, was none less painful. Late goals destroyed the hopes of both sides after closely-fought quarter-final ties against Brazil and Korea DPR respectively. Both, though, could claim to have been hard done by, and will surely feature prominently in future editions.

New Zealand's maiden appearance at a FIFA World Championship also provided grounds for optimism. Despite an opening-day reverse to neighbours Australia, the Kiwis came within a whisker of what would have been a deserved draw against the hosts, before eventually winning their first point against the powerful Brazilians.

By contrast, the premature exits of Australia and Canada left both sides with a sour taste in their mouths. Already experienced campaigners at this level, the Young Matildas and their Canuck counterparts arrived with great expectations, but despite showing occasional signs of promise, failed to even get past the group phase.

Two other sides who had hoped for better things were Mexico and Argentina. One win apiece was insufficient to carry the pair into the knockout phase, but their participation alone should provide an impetus to women's football in their respective homelands, where football has traditionally been almost exclusively male.

Also worthy of praise were Congo DR, who, in spite of the complicated situation in their homeland, managed to field a solid and promising side who made life difficult for such formidable opponents as the USA (1-2) and France (0-1) in their debut appearance in this tournament.

For Finland and Switzerland, Europe's final representatives, there was much to ponder after disappointing performances at Russia 2006 that owed much to some slipshod defending and a paucity of ideas in attack.

Participants
Russia, Brazil, Australia, New Zealand, Finland, China PR, Nigeria, Canada, Germany, Korea DPR, Switzerland, Mexico, USA, France, Argentina, Congo DR.

Final Standings

Korea DPR
China PR
Brazil
USA

All-Stars
Zhang Yanru (CHN), Val Henderson (USA), Hong Myong Gum (PRK), Celia Okoyino Da Mbabi (GER), Kim Kyong Hwa (PRK), Ma Xiaoxu (CHN), Cynthia Uwak (NGA), Kil Son Hui (PRK), Fabiana (BRA), Danesha Adams (USA).

Stadiums
Petrovsky (St Petersburg), Podmoskovie (Shchelkovo, Moscow), Dynamo, Torpedo and Lokomotiv (all Moscow)

Number of goals
106 (average of 3.31 per game)

Top scorers
5 goals (2 assists): Ma Xiaoxu (CHN)
5 goals (1 assist): Kim Song Hui (PRK)
3 goals: Anna Blasse (GER)

source:http://www.fifa.com/u20womensworldcup

Thailand 2004: Germanic dominance confirmed

2010-07-29T04:20:00.000-07:00

At the close of 2004, Germany have gone a long way to eclipsing the United States as the pre-eminent power in the women's game. Their first FIFA U-19 Women's World Championship laurels, earned in Thailand in November, coupled with the senior side's rampaging run to the top of the heap at the FIFA Women's World Cup USA 2003 surely have the Teutonic go-getters firmly entrenched at the pinnacle of femme football.

A competition packed to the rafters with surprises, fine play and marked improvements in overall quality from the inaugural competition just two years ago, Thailand 2004 looks every bit a watershed for the women's game. Join FIFA.com for a look back at a fabulous month of fine football from Siam.

Germany, nearly perfect

Beginning their Siamese scorched-earth campaign in stunning style with a 6-0 drubbing of overly gracious hosts Thailand, the German's were a force from the start. Led by the goalmouth intimidation of Anja Mittag, the finals second-top scorer and third-best player, the Europeans were irresistible in attack. And with a bit of aid from up-and-comers Celia Okoyino Da Mbabi and super-sub-turned-full-timer Patricia Hanebeck, the Germans only real stumble came when outstanding net minder Tessa Rinkes let three in to confirm a fine fight back in the 3-3 draw with 2002 finalists Canada in their last group match.

But with two wins (4-0 over Australia and 6-0 over Thailand) and a draw (3-3 against Canada) in the group stages, the Germans kept on rolling into knockout rounds. In what coach Silvia Neid called "the toughest match of the finals," the quarter-final with plucky, much-improved Nigeria proved trickier than most would have suspected. Down 0-1 with only six minutes to go, who else but Mittag managed to equalise and force penalties. The Germans went on to win thanks to a final, crucial spot kick from the incomparable striker and saviour to march on to the semi-finals - where they thrashed previously flawless holders the USA 3-1 at the Supachalasai Stadium in Bangkok.

Shanghai Surprise as China reach final

Many suspected the final to be a replay of the ultimate match of the Women's Olympic Football Tournament in Athens between the steady United States and brilliant Brazil. But football being a funny old game, the two entertainers were forced to battle it out for bronze in a humiliating 27 November under card.
Instead of the much-anticipated glamour tie, the final pitted Germany against surprise package China. With the Asians' once-proud reputation in the women's game suddenly off the rails, new boss Wang Haiming's tactical acumen and shrewd knowledge of his team's weaknesses and strengths may well signal a renaissance of sorts in the Far Eastern nation.

Never likely to threaten wonder women Brazil in terms of the flair, the organised and disciplined Steel Rosebuds played to their strengths throughout the finals. With a focus on counter-attack and stifling defence, the red-clad side were a tough team to master. After finishing behind Brazil in the group stages, the Chinese met up again with the Samba Princesses in the semis after surprising finals top scorer Brittany Timko and ten-woman Canada in the quarters. Many expected a mismatch - and that is exactly what transpired as Brazil's defensive frailties were laid bare in the face of a smothering, time-wasting Asian onslaught.

The final against Germany was a road too far for brave China however. With their 117-minute clean sheet streak gone after only four minutes, the myth of their defensive invincibility was torn asunder. And in truth the 2-0 scoreline could have been much worse for the spirited East Asians.

Marta, Marta, Marta!

Short-listed for FIFA Women's Player of the Year, it was no big surprise that Brazil's Sweden-based sparkplug Marta shone brightly on the Siamese stage. What was shocking however, was the style, grace and overall dominance she brought to the table in her second FIFA U-19 Women's finals. After shining with the senior side at 2003's FIFA Women's World Cup in the U.S., Marta's smashing precision, brilliant ability and emotional bustle brought her hands-down acclaim in Thailand. A no brainier for adidas Golden Ball as tournament top player, she was head-and-shoulders above even Silver and Bronze ball winners Angie Woznuk of the USA and Anja Mittag.

Marked improvement from Canada

Thailand 2004 was considered a huge step up from the inaugural instalment of the competition held in Canada in the summer of 2002. With vast improvement noted by FIFA's Technical Study Group (TSG), coaches, journalists and players, the competition stands as proof positive of drastic growth currently being felt in the women's game. Traditionally non-female footballing hotbeds like Italy, Spain and Russia all flexed a certain degree of muscle. All in all, the only side well and truly out of their depth were unfortunate goalless hosts Thailand. Nigeria, champions of Africa, showed their true colours with an admirable campaign. And Brazil - for years the talented, but disorganised queens of South America - again showed they are on one of the steepest improvement curves of all time.

Participants:
Thailand, Germany, Australia, Canada, Nigeria, China PR, Italy, Brazil, Korea Republic, USA, Russia, Spain

Final Standings:

Germany
China PR
USA
Brazil

Rising Stars
Elvira Todua (RUS), Ashlyn Harris (USA), Kun Wang (CHN), Akudo Sabi (NGA), Elena Semenchenko (RUS), Supaphon Kaeobaen (THA), Becky Sauerbrunn, Marta (BRA), Ying Zhang (CHN), Simone Laudehr (GER), Patricia Hanebeck (GER), Jang Mi Lee (KOR), Svetlana Tsidikova (RUS), Angie Woznuk (USA), Cristiane (BRA), Brittany Timko (CAN), Veronica Boquete (ESP), Anja Mittag (GER)

Stadiums:
Rajamangala Stadium and Supachalasai Stadium (Bangkok), 700th Anniversary Stadium (Chiang Mai), Surakul Stadium (Phuket)

Number of goals:
92 (average: 3.54 per match)

Top scorers:
7 goals: Brittany Timko (CAN)
6 goals: Anja Mittag (GER)
3 goals: Angie Woznuk (USA)

Spectators:
288,324

Average attendance:
11,089

Interesting fact:
German goals galore. Over the course of six matches, Germany scored over three times per game (19), while conceding only five total.

source:http://www.fifa.com/u20womensworldcup

Eagles grounded as Baggio wakes

2010-07-26T16:22:00.000-07:00

After Cameroon’s dramatic run to the quarter-finals of the 1990 FIFA World Cup™, there were high hopes for Africa's representatives at USA 1994. The continent had three places for the first time and the Indomitable Lions were there again, still with the evergreen Roger Milla, as well as Morocco, who had become the first African side to reach the second round in 1986, and, finally, newcomers Nigeria.

source:http://www.fifa.com

Webb: We rely on each other

2010-07-26T15:13:00.000-07:00

Howard Webb will become the first Englishman to step out at a FIFA World Cup™ Final since 1974 when he leads the Netherlands and Spain out in Soccer City. He sat down with his assistant referees, Mike Mullarkey and Darren Cann, and FIFA.com to discuss the challenge ahead and reflect on the importance of teamwork.

FIFA.com: How does it feel to follow in the footsteps of Jack Taylor, the last English referee of a FIFA World Cup Final 36 years ago?
Howard Webb: It is a really special honour. Jack is someone we look up to, he is a refereeing icon and has been a big supporter over the years so to be able to follow him is wonderful. I've just spoken to him on the phone, he has come over for the game so hopefully we'll have a chance to meet. Only 19 men have refereed this game so we feel very privileged to join this exclusive band.

Did you have any inkling you would get the Final before the appointment was made?
Our games went really smoothly, Darren and Mike did unbelievable work for me, and because of the way those games went we thought, 'we've got the chance of a latter stage game'. Other things need to fall into place, like your national team not progressing. We didn't want them to get knocked out but when they did, we realised it increased our chance. To hear our names actually mentioned at the meeting on Thursday was an unbelievable moment for us – we held hands tightly under the table. But the hard work is still to come.

source:http://www.fifa.com

HUH Jung Moo

2010-06-12T15:21:00.001-07:00

Name: HUH Jung Moo
Country: Korea Republic
Date of Birth: 13 January 1955

Coaching Career

Korea Republic (KOR) : From 2007 to 2010
Korea Republic (KOR) : From 2005 to 2007
Korea Republic (KOR) : From 1998 to 2000
Korea Republic (KOR) : From 1996 to 1998
Korea Republic (KOR) : From 1995 to 1995
Korea Republic (KOR) : From 1993 to 1995

Playing Career

Ulsan Hyundai Horangi (KOR) : From 1984 to 1986
PSV Eindhoven (NED) : From 1980 to 1983
Korea Electric Power Corporation / Navy (KOR) : From 1978 to 1980
Yonsei Univ. (KOR) : From 1974 to 1978

Huh Jung-Moo is one of the most experienced coaches in Korea Republic, in terms of his participations in major international competitions. The 55-year-old has taken part in the AFC Asian Cup, the Asian Games, the Men’s Olympic Football Tournament as well as the FIFA World CupÔ, while leading Chunnam Dragons to three Korean FA Cup successes in the past two decades.

After hanging up his boots in 1986, following an illustrious playing career that culminated in that year’s FIFA World Cup in Mexico, Huh joined the coaching staff of Korea Republic as a fitness trainer at Italy 1990. The following year saw him appointed as the assistant coach of Pohang Steelers, where he went on to take the reins in 1993. Huh then temporarily returned to the national team as an assistant coach for Kim Ho, under whose guidance the Taeguk Warriors narrowly missed out on a place in the second round of USA 1994.

His coaching debut for Korea Republic was a friendly with Brazil in Suwon on 12 August 1995, which ended in a 1-0 defeat. Huh subsequently joined his hometown club Chunnam Dragons, where he went on to establish himself as a tournament specialist with successes in the Korean FA Cup in 1997, 2006 and 2007.

However, his second spell in Korea Republic’s hot seat was not so successful. Huh’s charges were defeated 3-2 by Turkmenistan in their opening match at the 1998 Asian Games Football Tournament in Bangkok, before going down 2-1 to hosts Thailand in the quarter-finals. Despite the disappointing results during the transitional period, Huh would be regarded by many later on as the man who picked up talented young players such as Lee Young-Pyo, Seol Ki-Hyeon and Park Ji-Sung, who have become the stalwarts of the Taeguk Warriors.

The autumn of 2000 was probably the busiest time in the coaching career of Huh, who led Korea Republic’s U-23 side at the Men’s Olympic Football Tournament in September before taking their senior side to the AFC Asian Cup the following month. The young Taeguk Warriors could not overturn the 3-0 defeat by Spain despite winning the remaining group games against Morocco and Chile at Sydney 2000, although their seniors managed to finish third in the continental finals in Lebanon.

After stepping down from the coaching post, Huh served the Korean FA as a technical advisor for the national team under Guus Hiddink at Korea/Japan 2002, before joining the technical committee as its vice chairman in 2004. He was also the senior assistant coach for Johannes Bonfrere during the 2004 Asian Cup in China.

The final chapter of his football life, as he described upon his third appointment as Korea Republic coach in December 2007, has proved to be a success so far. Huh’s charges topped their group with three wins and three draws in the third round of qualifying for South Africa 2010, before going on to claim their place in world football’s showpiece event with two games remaining in the final round of the preliminary competition.

Otto REHHAGEL

2010-06-12T15:19:00.000-07:00

Name: Otto REHHAGEL
Country: Germany
Date of Birth: 9 August 1938

Coaching Career

1. FC Kaiserslautern (GER) : From 1996 to 2000
Bayern München (GER) : From 1995 to 1996
Werder Bremen (GER) : From 1981 to 1995
Fortuna Düsseldorf (GER) : From 1979 to 1980
Arminia Bielefeld (GER) : From 1978 to 1979
Borussia Dortmund (GER) : From 1976 to 1978
Werder Bremen (GER) : From 1976 to 1976

Affectionately known in his native Germany as the 'Kind der Bundesliga' (The Bundesliga Kid), the septuagenarian Otto Rehhagel has been defying the passage of time for many years now.

During his eventful playing and coaching career in the German top flight, the veteran Greece coach racked up all manner of records, some of them more glorious than others. Rehhagel has been involved in the record number of Bundesliga wins, draws and defeats, and the teams he has coached have scored and conceded more goals than those of any of his contemporaries.

Curious stats aside, however, Otto Rehhagel is one of the most successful German coaches of all time. His long association with the game started way back in the 1950s. Over the next two decades he made over 200 Bundesliga appearances, building up a reputation as a player with an uncompromising streak, a virtue he has instilled in his Greece side.

A top-flight coach for fully 25 years, he took the helm at all the country’s leading club sides, including Werder Bremen, Borussia Dortmund, Kaiserlautern and Bayern Munich. Then, in 2001, he accepted the Greek FA’s invitation to become their national coach.

His nine-year association with the country has brought many landmark achievements. Having only qualified for the FIFA World Cup™ finals on one previous occasion, a forgettable first-round exit at USA 1994, Greece suddenly began to work miracles under Rehhagel.

It was the German who masterminded their stunning triumph at UEFA EURO 2004, which was achieved with a pragmatic style of football short on attacking frills. As a reward, he became the first foreigner to be named Greek of the Year, and when the German FA subsequently came in with an offer to take charge of the national side, he eventually turned it down.

Though they failed to reach Germany 2006 and came up short in their defence of their European crown in 2008, Rehhagel and his charges proved their durability by winning a place at the 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa. In the meantime, he further cemented his reputation by taking Greece to their highest ever position in the FIFA/Coca-Cola World Ranking: eighth in July 2008.

Famed for his motivational skills, Rehhagel has created a club atmosphere in the Greek dressing room and has not been afraid to bring in new players to replace some of the veterans of their glorious EURO 2004 campaign. And though Greece continue to lack genuine stars, the team spirit and solidity Rehhagel has forged makes them formidable opponents.

The first foreign coach ever to lift the European Championship trophy, it would be no surprise to see the durable German inspire another impressive performance from his underrated side in South Africa.

Lars LAGERBACK

2010-06-12T15:18:00.000-07:00

Name: Lars LAGERBACK
Country: Sweden
Date of Birth: 16 July 1948

Coaching Career

Nigeria (NGA) : From 2010 to 2010
Sweden (SWE) : From 2000 to 2009
Hudiksvalls (SWE) : From 1987 to 1989
Arbra (SWE) : From 1983 to 1985
Kilafors (SWE) : From 1977 to 1982

Playing Career

Gimonas CK (SWE) : From 1970 to 1974
Alby FF (SWE) : From 1960 to 1969

Lars Lagerback was hired to coach Nigeria just a few months before the 2010 FIFA World Cup™, and the veteran Swede has been busy assessing players and getting his team’s overall tactics in place. A serious student of the game and a top-notch evaluator of form, Lagerback can be counted on to bring the strongest Super Eagles team to South Africa. With little time to bring it all together and having never coached outside of Sweden before, many are sceptical that he can get the best from his team once at the finals, but the canny tournament campaigner should not be underestimated. And with the always talented Nigerians at his disposal, Lagerback will be looking to make amends for missing out on the 2010 finals with his native Sweden.

After a long playing career in domestic football, Lagerback honed his coaching skills with small Swedish clubs and, from 1990 to 1995, leading Sweden’s U-21 team. He took over the Swedish national ‘B’ team in 1996 and joined national team manager Tommy Soderberg as an assistant two years later. After a stellar qualifying campaign for the 2000 UEFA European Championship, he was surprisingly promoted to be national team co-manager with Soderberg. The interesting partnership got off to a poor start however as Sweden earned just a point at Euro 2000 and went home at the group stage. But qualification for the 2002 FIFA World Cup Korea/Japan and a subsequent escape from the ‘Group of Death’ turned things around, although they lost to tournament darlings Senegal in the second round. A run to the Euro 2004 quarter-final was stopped by the Netherlands and a penalty shootout, and from there out, Lagerback was in sole charge of the team.

He successfully led them to Germany 2006, where they finished second in their group to England and went on to lose to Germany 2-0 in the second round. Lagerback led the team to their fifth consecutive major tournament, but Sweden went out in the group stage at Euro 2008. After finishing third in a tough qualifying group for South Africa 2010 - behind Denmark and Portugal - Lagerback resigned.

But just months later he turned up on the shortlist for coaches being considered to lead Nigeria, who had demoted previous manager Saibu Amodu after the team finished third at the CAF Africa Cup of Nations earlier this year. Lagerback’s compatriot Sven-Goran Eriksson and former Senegal boss Bruno Metsu were considered frontrunners for the job, but in the end Lagerback was handed the pressure-filled task with the expectation that he lead the two-time African champions to the semi-finals.

With his 62nd birthday just days after the finals, the Swede is undoubtedly hoping this year’s present will be the devotion of Africa’s most populous nation, happy with his performance at the first-ever FIFA World Cup on the continent.

Diego MARADONA

2010-06-12T15:16:00.000-07:00

Name: Diego MARADONA
Country: Argentina
Date of Birth: 30 October 1960

Coaching Career

Racing Club (ARG) : From 1995 to 1995
Deportivo Mandiyú (ARG) : From 1994 to 1994

Playing Career

Boca Juniors (ARG) : From 1995 to 1997
Newell''s Old Boys (ARG) : From 1993 to 1994
Sevilla FC (ESP) : From 1992 to 1993
Napoli (ITA) : From 1984 to 1991
FC Barcelona (ESP) : From 1982 to 1984
Boca Juniors (ARG) : From 1981 to 1982
Argentinos Juniors (ARG) : From 1976 to 1981

If there is one member of the global footballing fraternity who needs no introduction, it is Diego Armando Maradona. The Argentinian legend is considered by many to be the greatest player to have walked the Earth. Now, at the age of 49, he has put his reputation at stake by taking on an entirely different challenge at the helm of the national team.

Set to take part in his fifth FIFA World Cup™ finals, El Diez knows all about the highs and lows the competition can bring. After captaining his country to glory at Mexico 1986, he experienced the bitter taste of defeat in the Final at Italy 1990, the last time the Albiceleste reached the tournament showpiece.

Maradona began his coaching career at Mandiyu while he was serving a playing suspension for a positive drugs test at USA 1994. The unfashionable club from inland Argentina were struggling to stay in the top flight at the time and looked to the fallen idol for salvation. Maradona lasted just 12 games, however, presiding over one win, six draws and five defeats before trying his luck at Racing Club, one of Argentina’s big five. He fared little better at La Academia, resigning from the post after overseeing just two wins in 13 games. After then resuming his playing career, El Pelusa made his last league appearance in the colours of Boca Juniors in October 1997 and stayed out of the game for the next 11 years.

In October 2008, not long after travelling to Beijing to see watch Argentina win Olympic gold, Maradona was offered the job of national coach following Alfio Basile’s resignation ten games into the qualifying competition for South Africa 2010. Argentina had won just one of their previous seven games and with their qualification bid in serious jeopardy, Maradona agreed to take on the task of turning things around.

“It's totally unfair to expect to see the Maradona style when I only get the guys together two days before each game,” he explained in an exclusive interview with FIFA.com nine months into the job. “I see myself as more of a coach than a technical director.” Whatever his job description, El Diez was able to steer his side into the world finals, overcoming crushing defeats against Bolivia and Brazil to seal their passage in the final game against Uruguay in Montevideo.

Though his qualification record of won four lost four was far from perfect, Maradona has since had the satisfaction of seeing his side beat France and Germany in high-profile friendlies away from home, both times without conceding a goal.

“I've been at World Cups, I've played in two finals and I know how to get there, how to handle the group, how to coach them,” he added in that recent interview with FIFA.com. “I know what to say to them. I know what I'm talking about. I didn't come eighth or ninth and it didn't happen to me just like that. I know something about all this.” The time for him to prove it has arrived.

Carlos Alberto PARREIRA

2010-06-12T15:13:00.000-07:00

Name: Carlos Alberto PARREIRA
Country: Brazil
Date of Birth: 27 February 1943

Coaching Career

South Africa (RSA) : From 2009 to 2010
Fluminense (BRA) : From 2009 to 2009
South Africa (RSA) : From 2007 to 2008
Brazil (BRA) : From 2003 to 2006
Corinthians (BRA) : From 2002 to 2002
Internacional (BRA) : From 2000 to 2001
Santos (BRA) : From 2000 to 2000
Atletico Mineiro (BRA) : From 2000 to 2000
Fluminense (BRA) : From 1999 to 2000
Saudi Arabia (KSA) : From 1997 to 1998
Metro (USA) : From 1997 to 1997
São Paulo (BRA) : From 1996 to 1996
Fenerbahçe (TUR) : From 1995 to 1996
Valencia CF (ESP) : From 1994 to 1995
Brazil (BRA) : From 1992 to 1994
United Arab Emirates (UAE) : From 1990 to 1990
Saudi Arabia (KSA) : From 1988 to 1990
United Arab Emirates (UAE) : From 1985 to 1988
Fluminense (BRA) : From 1984 to 1984
Brazil (BRA) : From 1983 to 1983
Kuwait (KUW) : From 1978 to 1982
Fluminense (BRA) : From 1975 to 1975
Asante Kotoko (GHA) : From 1968 to 1968
Ghana (GHA) : From 1967 to 1968
Sao Cristovao (BRA) : From 1967 to 1967

As the 2010 FIFA World Cup™ hosts prepare for their most daunting task yet in international football, most of the responsibility to mould the side and deliver them to the ‘Promised Land’ lies in the hands of experienced journeyman and FIFA World Cup-winning coach, Carlos Alberto Parreira. Now in his second stint as Bafana Bafana head coach, Parreira’s return was greeted with mixed feelings in South Africa. Although the Brazilian’s many supporters are adamant that he is the man to right the wrongs of the team ahead of the world’s greatest showpiece, he was re-hired following a spate of inauspicious results under then-coach, Joel Santana, who led the team to eight defeats on the trot. Immediately after Parreira’s arrival, he focused on reviving the morale and insisted on boosting the flagging confidence amongst his charges. And his arrival has seemingly breathed life back into the hosts.

Parreira certainly has the pedigree to inspire. He led his native country to the beautiful game’s ultimate prize at the 1994 FIFA World Cup USA. The extensively-travelled coach also brings a wide-range of experience, which should prove vital in revitalising a South African side struggling with some complicated pre-tournament issues. However, Parreira will be hoping to avoid the difficulties he endured during an inauspicious first spell as head coach, which witnessed him fail to lead South Africa beyond the first round at the 2008 Africa Cup of Nations. While some have been quick to dismiss South Africa’s chances at the World Cup, Parreira has reminded the sceptics about Bafana’s gallant showing at the 2009 FIFA Confederations Cup. Even though he was not at the helm then, Parreira can claim it was he who did the spadework for his compatriot, Santana.

South Africa 2010 will be sixth FIFA World Cup as a coach, and Bafana will be the fifth team he’s led at the finals - breaking the record of four he’s held jointly with Bora Milutinovic. Parreira led Brazil to the USA 94 title after a penalty shootout in the Final0, but he failed to get the Seleção past the quarter-finals at Germany 2006, where they lost to eventual finalists France. His first FIFA World Cup came back at Spain 82, when he led Kuwait to a point. United Arab Emirates in 1990 followed, as did a stint with Saudi Arabia at France 98. Parreira has dubbed this World Cup as “Mount Everest” for his side, but he has vowed to mount a strong challenge and lead Bafana Bafana beyond the group stages. From there, as he famously told reporters, “anything is possible.”

Oscar TABAREZ

2010-06-12T15:10:00.000-07:00

Name: Oscar TABAREZ
Country: Uruguay
Date of Birth: 3 March 1947

Coaching Career

Boca Juniors (ARG) : From 2003 to 2003
Vélez Sársfield (ARG) : From 2000 to 2001
Oviedo (ESP) : From 1997 to 1998
Cagliari (ITA) : From 1997 to 1997
AC Milan (ITA) : From 1996 to 1997
Cagliari (ITA) : From 1994 to 1995
Boca Juniors (ARG) : From 1991 to 1993
Uruguay (URU) : From 1988 to 1990
Deportivo Cali (COL) : From 1988 to 1988
Peñarol (URU) : From 1987 to 1987
Montevideo Wanderers (URU) : From 1985 to 1986
Danubio (URU) : From 1984 to 1984

Playing Career

Bella Vista (URU) : From 1977 to 1978
Puebla (MEX) : From 1976 to 1977
Fénix (URU) : From 1975 to 1975
Montevideo Wanderers (URU) : From 1974 to 1975
Sportivo Italiano (URU) : From 1972 to 1973
Sud América (URU) : From 1967 to 1971

One of the football world’s more thoughtful and laid-back coaches, Oscar Washington Tabarez is nevertheless a man of firm convictions and clear ideas. Aptly known in the game as Maestro, the much-travelled Tabarez is set to lead Uruguay into the FIFA World Cup™ finals for the second time.

A solid right-back in his playing days, Tabarez began his career with Institucion Atletica Sud America in 1967 and ended it 11 years later with Club Atletico Bella Vista. In between came spells with fellow Uruguayan sides Sportivo Italiano, Montevideo Wanderers, and Fenix and a stint in Mexico with Puebla.

He took first steps as coach in 1980, training the youth teams at the unfashionable Montevideo club of Bella Vista. Three years later he was in charge of the national U-20 team, steering them to the gold medal at the 1983 Pan American Games in Venezuela, his first success as coach.

Next stop was the Uruguayan first division for consecutive spells with Danubio, Montevideo Wanderers and Penarol, where he won his maiden club title, the 1987 Copa Libertadores, the last time the famous Montevideo outfit won the biggest prize in Latin American football.

Following a short sojourn with Deportivo Cali in Colombia, Tabarez took charge of the national team for the first time, taking La Celeste to the final of the 1989 Copa America, where they finished runners-up to Brazil, and to the 1990 FIFA World Cup Italy™.

A 2-0 defeat to the host nation in the Round of 16 marked the end of his stewardship and a year later he crossed the River Plate to take over at the mighty Boca Juniors, helping them to the Argentinian championship for the first time in 11 long years. That success proved the springboard to Europe, where, as well coaching Cagliari in two separate spells in the nineties, he also took the reins at AC Milan and Spanish side Oviedo.

Returning to Argentina, he was in charge at Velez Sarsfield in 2001 before being reinstalled at Boca Juniors in 2002, overseeing their second-place finish in that year’s Apertura. After more than two decades in the hotseat, he then stayed out of the game for nearly four years, only returning to the game in March 2006, when the Uruguayan FA invited him to return to the national side.

His achievements in his second coming have been considerable. As well overhauling the national set-up and leading his side to fourth place at the 2007 Copa America and masterminding their qualification for South Africa 2010, Tabarez has also revitalised the country’s youth football. Proof of that came in 2009, when, along with Brazil, Los Charrúas were the only side to qualify for both the FIFA U-17 and U-20 World Cups.

As welcome as those successes have been, Tabarez’s overriding ambition is to see his side shine in the world finals and thereby add his name to long list of legends who have helped shape the history of Uruguayan football.

Raymond DOMENECH

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Name: Raymond DOMENECH
Country: France
Date of Birth: 24 January 1952

Coaching Career

France (FRA) : From 2004 to 2010
Olympique Lyon (FRA) : From 1988 to 1993
Mulhouse (FRA) : From 1984 to 1988

Playing Career

Mulhouse (FRA) : From 1984 to 1986
Girondins Bordeaux (FRA) : From 1982 to 1984
Paris Saint-Germain (FRA) : From 1981 to 1982
RC Strasbourg (FRA) : From 1977 to 1981
Olympique Lyon (FRA) : From 1970 to 1977

Always guaranteed to divide opinion, the least that can be said about Raymond Domenech is that he leaves few people indifferent. Even as a defender during his playing days he was seen as a tough-tackling warrior by some and an over-physical spoiler by others. Now, after six years in the France job, he strikes supporters either as mischievous and passionate or over-confident and provocative. He is a paradoxical figure, uniting a nation as coach of the national team but splitting them down the middle when it comes to his methods.

As a player starting out with his hometown club Lyon, his combative approach quickly earned him the nickname ‘Le Boucher’ (The Butcher), and he happily cultivated his image as a hard-nosed defender by growing a somewhat intimidating moustache. Despite his uncompromising style, he earned recognition at international level and helped win two French titles, with Strasbourg and then Bordeaux.

His transition to coaching came in the twilight of his playing career, when he spent two years as player-coach for Mulhouse before finally hanging up his boots in 1986. Two years later, he became the first man in the dugout at the start of the Jean-Michel Aulas era at Lyon, who had spent the previous five seasons in the second tier. The return to his alma mater proved an immediate success, as Domenech led Les Gones back to the elite in his first season and kept them there for five years before taking on a job at France’s National Technical Training Centre and taking the reins of the French Under-21 side. He oversaw several gifted generations of talent during his time with the U-21s though was unable to secure any titles other than a pair of Toulon Tournament wins.

Appointed coach of the senior team in 2004, following on from the reigns of Roger Lemerre and then Jacques Santini, he brought an instant breath of fresh air to proceedings, not least due to his talents as an orator when confronted with the press. He inherited a squad weakened by the retirements of veterans such as Zinedine Zidane but eventually succeeded in persuading the 1998 FIFA World Cup™ winner to return to the fold, along with Lilian Thuram and Claude Makelele. With those senior figures back on board, he boldly told the nation to clear their diaries for 9 July, 2006, the date of the Final, even before the tournament had kicked off. He kept his promise, however, as France won their way through to meet Italy in Berlin, when just one spot-kick against the crossbar during the penalty shoot-out denied him the hero status Aime Jacquet had been accorded eight years earlier.

Instead, he has had to grow used to a torrent of criticism whenever Les Bleus put in under-par performances, with the team’s poor showing at UEFA EURO 2008 a particular low point. Domenech was castigated for his tactical choices and his management of the squad, which contained a number of injured players and others struggling for form. He then did little to appease his critics when his first words to the media after France’s elimination contained a marriage proposal.

It was a far from uncharacteristic move for a man with a special interest in the spoken word and a penchant for the well-turned phrase, and whose press conferences have always been an occasion worth attending. Some of his more celebrated declarations include the lines: “Sometimes I think that if I was standing right in front of myself, I’d hate me,”; “If I could select myself, I’d play”; and “Only the results count – in the end I’ll either be God or the Devil.”

Despite the criticisms, Domenech has nonetheless overseen more France matches than any of his predecessors, including the 12 qualifying games on the road to South Africa. As he prepares his charges for the global showcase, his team and formation contain both genuine talent and experience, however a number of question marks remain. Much like 2006, in short.