thank you...for bashing my country:[ but theres a reason why we dont play well.
Soccer Thread
- Thread starter Peterdea
- Start date
theres two types of soccer.
euro soccer
latino soccer
euro-the players are more spread out.
latino-everyone goes after the ball within their vincinity.
well since most of the national team players play for european clubs and etc. they know euro soccer and thats how they play cuz they're used to it. but when they get called in for national games a WEEK before the game the dont have time to get used to latino soccer again and what happens. at the game everyone goes gung ho after the ball while the euro club players wait around for the ball.
saddening really
euro soccer
latino soccer
euro-the players are more spread out.
latino-everyone goes after the ball within their vincinity.
well since most of the national team players play for european clubs and etc. they know euro soccer and thats how they play cuz they're used to it. but when they get called in for national games a WEEK before the game the dont have time to get used to latino soccer again and what happens. at the game everyone goes gung ho after the ball while the euro club players wait around for the ball.
saddening really
lol VERY!
the goals wre very cool >.> and sorta lucky.
DC united scored on a bicycle kick. The goalie went chasing the left winger... and left the area wide open >.> the defense screwed up and PAH! 0 - 1.
1 - 1 came before the first half ended. Alberto Medina (Left/Right winger/forward) went up the right side, and got through all the defenses before passing it to Adolfo "Bofo" Bautista for him just to push it in.
2 - 1 came in the 2nd half. It began to pour in Guadalajara making it a very wet field... and so that meant the ball was bery slippery. Gonzalo Pineda shot from a long distance and the DC United goalie tried to grab the ball in the air. The ball slipped out of his hands and went in the net.
From then on, it was a barage of DC United attacks with a counterattack of... COUNTERATTACKS! Chivas could've easily won the game a good 4 or 5 - 1.
Pachuca vs Dynamo today >.>
Winner faces Chivas in the finals. Dynamo has a 2 - 0 lead in this series.
the goals wre very cool >.> and sorta lucky.
DC united scored on a bicycle kick. The goalie went chasing the left winger... and left the area wide open >.> the defense screwed up and PAH! 0 - 1.
1 - 1 came before the first half ended. Alberto Medina (Left/Right winger/forward) went up the right side, and got through all the defenses before passing it to Adolfo "Bofo" Bautista for him just to push it in.
2 - 1 came in the 2nd half. It began to pour in Guadalajara making it a very wet field... and so that meant the ball was bery slippery. Gonzalo Pineda shot from a long distance and the DC United goalie tried to grab the ball in the air. The ball slipped out of his hands and went in the net.
From then on, it was a barage of DC United attacks with a counterattack of... COUNTERATTACKS! Chivas could've easily won the game a good 4 or 5 - 1.
Pachuca vs Dynamo today >.>
Winner faces Chivas in the finals. Dynamo has a 2 - 0 lead in this series.
Houston Dynamo vs. Pachuca is at 9:30 EST btw
Here's the division breakup for MLS this year-
EASTERN CONFERENCE
Chicago Fire
Columbus Crew
D.C. United
Kansas City Wizards
New York Red Bulls
New England Revolution
Toronto FC
WESTERN CONFERENCE
Club Deportivo Chivas USA
Colorado Rapids
FC Dallas
Houston Dynamo
Los Angeles Galaxy
Real Salt Lake
Any predictions for this year?
Here's the division breakup for MLS this year-
EASTERN CONFERENCE
Chicago Fire
Columbus Crew
D.C. United
Kansas City Wizards
New York Red Bulls
New England Revolution
Toronto FC
WESTERN CONFERENCE
Club Deportivo Chivas USA
Colorado Rapids
FC Dallas
Houston Dynamo
Los Angeles Galaxy
Real Salt Lake
Any predictions for this year?
MLS Western Conference Preview
1. FC Dallas
When Colin Clarke was fired and his opponent ex Arsenal man Steve Morrow was promoted, many believed little would change in philosophy at Pizza Hut Park. Well just about everything has changed this off season. FC Dallas let go of its three best midfielders from a year ago- Ronnie O'Brien and Richard Mulrooney are now in Toronto while Simo Valakari is back in Europe. However a signing of former Argentine National Team and Real Valladolid midfielder Pablo Richetti coupled with the addition of Colombian Juan Carlos Toya will more than alleviate the hole in midfield. Roberto Mina, who was one of Ecuador's final cuts before the World Cup can also play in midfield but prefers to play up front, and in Morrow's 4-3-3 he will have his shot. Mina will be joined up front by Carlos Ruiz, one of the best players to ever step on an MLS pitch and 6'-4'' Kenny Cooper, whose apprenticeship at Manchester United helped to make him a revelation last year. Speedy Ghanian Dominic Oduro, and talented Abe Thompson will provide needed depth to the front line. The defense is outstanding and is anchored by Chris Gbandi, and Drew Moor. The Goalkeepers are fantastic. Dario Sala is suspended for the first six games of the season, but when he returns his inspired and rugged play will make him the starter. His backup is Shaka Hislop who recorded a clean sheet versus Sweden and then shut out England for 70 plus minutes in the World Cup. Not bad for a backup! Keep an eye on young Honduran midfielder Ramon Nunez, and American U-23 holding midfielder Dax McCarthy. FC Dallas lost a lot in the off season, but actually recovered nicely with the two midfield signings and have critical depth at every position. This team is a legitimate title contender.
2. Houston
The defending MLS Champion Houston Dynamo return a largely unchanged squad except for the loss of M/F Adrian Serioux. They may be the only team that did not add one significant player to their roster. Perhaps AEG didn’t have any money left after signing Beckham and Blanco for their two chosen franchises to fill either of the two vacant senior international slots in Houston. Inspite of being the ugly stepchild of the AEG MLS trio of teams, Houston will once again be the best of the three. Despite a strong starting eleven that includes Dwayne De Rosario, one of the best finishers in the history of the league, along with US World Cup veteran Brian Ching, Alejandro Moreno, and Scottish International Paul Dalglish as attacking options, and a midfield anchored by an improving but injory prone Ricardo Clark, this team is very thin on the bench. This team could be one major injury away from a possible disaster. Clark is potentially the replacement for Claudio Reyna with the US National Team but he must remain healthy. Brian Mullan and Craig Waibel are also excellent midfielders. The defense is anchored by the rock solid Eddie Robinson and Zach Wells continues to be a top keeper.
3. Los Angeles
David Beckham has played for two of the best clubs in the world. It is a pity for him that his arrival stateside will be on a team that will likely be fighting to keep its head above water when he arrives. For all the bluster coming from AEG and Alexi Lalas, not only are the Galaxy not one the premier clubs in the world, they are a fringe playoff contender in Major League Soccer. Were the great David Beckham not coming to America, we'd have no hesitation in picking the Galaxy last in the West. Perhaps it is because of the Galaxy's weak roster that Landon Donovan recently announced he'd skip Copa America to concentrate on the club. Maybe it is because after trading Hercules Gomez and Ugo Ihemelu in the off season the L.A. will be over ally dependent on young stars like Midfielder Quaves Kirk and Defender Nathan Sturgis. Sturgis for his part will be gone for much of the summer with the US Under 20 team at the FIFA World Youth Cup. The fact that Frank Yallop seems enamored with Santino Quaranta, who couldn't find himself in the match squad for DC United despite being given numerous chances to do so speaks volumes about the current situation at the Home Depot Center. Steady veterans Peter Vagenas and Cobi Jones will help the cause as will rock solid Jamaican International Defender Tyrone Marshall, but this team minus David Beckham is one of the worst in MLS. Nonetheless a player of Beckham's quality and stature will be good enough to take this team into the playoffs and perhaps beyond. For all of Beckham's detractors, England's shocking form since his departure from the National Team speaks volumes as to his impact on the field. Since he is an unconventional player who lacks pace but is dead ball specialist, he is often maligned. Yet Beckham is one of the greats of our generation and his decision to come to MLS makes this league, inspite of its other faults relevent on the world stage.
4. Chivas USA
Bob Bradley did a remarkable job with this team last season, and was rewarded with the US National Team job. He has been replaced by perhaps the best player in MLS history-Preki. While Chivas LA maintained its latin flavor and emphasis on young American talent was also develop. From that came Jonathan Bornstein (who despite his name is part Mexican and thus fits in well at Chivas) the MLS Rookie of the Year and likely left back of the future for the US National Team. Chivas USA's heart is Claudio Suarez, who last year continued to be an important part of Mexico's World Cup team even at 37. Suarez anchors a back line that is very solid. The midfield will be led this season by Amado Guevara a former league MVP whose lack of discipline and team play ended his stay in New York. Jesse Marsch who started his MLS career by winning the MLS Cup with DC United in the inaugural year of 1996 is still going strong as vital cog in Chivas' attack. Ante Razov had an outstanding year last year with 14 goals, but the loss of Fransisco Palencia and Juan Pablo Garcia could very well be too much to overcome. Cuban defector Raykel Galindo has been impressive in pre-season and could be the other starting forward. Chivas USA appears solid but unspectacular at every position. If David Beckham were not joining the other team that plays at the Home Depot Center, then Chivas would be a playoff lock. As it is, they have a fair chance of making the postseason.
5. Real Salt Lake
RSL may be improved this season with the addition of dynamic offensive talents like Freddy Aduand. Luis Tejeda, a forward from Panama. Their roster reads like a MLS All-Star team or USA “B” squad from about 10 years ago with veterans like Defender Eddie Pope, Midfielders Jason Kreis, Chris Brown, and Chris Klein as well as 2006 MLS leading scorer Jeff Cunningham. The player to watch is Mehdi Ballouchy who is entering his second season in MLS after a successful college career including time at Santa Clara. His technical ability and passing savvy should be enhanced by the offensive additions. Unfortunately for Real the surprise retirement of Goalkeeper Scott Garlick has left them vulnerable in the last third. This came after RSL traded Jay Nolly to DC United. A healthy Pope and U-23 keeper Chris Seitz may help, and could be enough to get Salt Lake into the playoffs. Owner/operator Dave Checketts has let coach John Ellinger know that the current results have not been good enough, and should RSL miss the playoffs again, Ellinger will be looking for work.
6. Colorado Rapids
The Rapids look to be a mess. Despite fancy new uniforms, tie up with Arsenal and a brand new stadium, the roster looks like a work in progress. In the off-season they traded their best player, Joe Cannon, to the Galaxy for Hercules Gomez and Ugo Ihemelu. Ihemelu was badly needed because the Rapdis defense was in a word abysmal last season. The back line will also included three players who have seen better days: Mike Petke, Greg Vanney and Brandon Prideaux. The midfield features two time US World Cup veteran Pablo Mastroeni, Kyle Beckerman and Jovan Kirovski. The attack will be led by Gomez and Panamanian Roberto Brown. This team will need a serious rebuilding phase and some useful advice from Arsene Wenger to be competitive. Fernando Clavijo could be the best coach in MLS, a potential future US National Team boss, but this team will not make him look good.
Best Coach: Fernando Clavijo, Colorado
Best Passer: Dwayne DeRossario, Houston
Best Finisher: Carlos Ruiz, FC Dallas
Best Tackler: Eddie Robinson, Houston
Best Goalkeeper: Dario Sala, FC Dallas
Source:USA Soccer Spot Blog
1. FC Dallas
When Colin Clarke was fired and his opponent ex Arsenal man Steve Morrow was promoted, many believed little would change in philosophy at Pizza Hut Park. Well just about everything has changed this off season. FC Dallas let go of its three best midfielders from a year ago- Ronnie O'Brien and Richard Mulrooney are now in Toronto while Simo Valakari is back in Europe. However a signing of former Argentine National Team and Real Valladolid midfielder Pablo Richetti coupled with the addition of Colombian Juan Carlos Toya will more than alleviate the hole in midfield. Roberto Mina, who was one of Ecuador's final cuts before the World Cup can also play in midfield but prefers to play up front, and in Morrow's 4-3-3 he will have his shot. Mina will be joined up front by Carlos Ruiz, one of the best players to ever step on an MLS pitch and 6'-4'' Kenny Cooper, whose apprenticeship at Manchester United helped to make him a revelation last year. Speedy Ghanian Dominic Oduro, and talented Abe Thompson will provide needed depth to the front line. The defense is outstanding and is anchored by Chris Gbandi, and Drew Moor. The Goalkeepers are fantastic. Dario Sala is suspended for the first six games of the season, but when he returns his inspired and rugged play will make him the starter. His backup is Shaka Hislop who recorded a clean sheet versus Sweden and then shut out England for 70 plus minutes in the World Cup. Not bad for a backup! Keep an eye on young Honduran midfielder Ramon Nunez, and American U-23 holding midfielder Dax McCarthy. FC Dallas lost a lot in the off season, but actually recovered nicely with the two midfield signings and have critical depth at every position. This team is a legitimate title contender.
2. Houston
The defending MLS Champion Houston Dynamo return a largely unchanged squad except for the loss of M/F Adrian Serioux. They may be the only team that did not add one significant player to their roster. Perhaps AEG didn’t have any money left after signing Beckham and Blanco for their two chosen franchises to fill either of the two vacant senior international slots in Houston. Inspite of being the ugly stepchild of the AEG MLS trio of teams, Houston will once again be the best of the three. Despite a strong starting eleven that includes Dwayne De Rosario, one of the best finishers in the history of the league, along with US World Cup veteran Brian Ching, Alejandro Moreno, and Scottish International Paul Dalglish as attacking options, and a midfield anchored by an improving but injory prone Ricardo Clark, this team is very thin on the bench. This team could be one major injury away from a possible disaster. Clark is potentially the replacement for Claudio Reyna with the US National Team but he must remain healthy. Brian Mullan and Craig Waibel are also excellent midfielders. The defense is anchored by the rock solid Eddie Robinson and Zach Wells continues to be a top keeper.
3. Los Angeles
David Beckham has played for two of the best clubs in the world. It is a pity for him that his arrival stateside will be on a team that will likely be fighting to keep its head above water when he arrives. For all the bluster coming from AEG and Alexi Lalas, not only are the Galaxy not one the premier clubs in the world, they are a fringe playoff contender in Major League Soccer. Were the great David Beckham not coming to America, we'd have no hesitation in picking the Galaxy last in the West. Perhaps it is because of the Galaxy's weak roster that Landon Donovan recently announced he'd skip Copa America to concentrate on the club. Maybe it is because after trading Hercules Gomez and Ugo Ihemelu in the off season the L.A. will be over ally dependent on young stars like Midfielder Quaves Kirk and Defender Nathan Sturgis. Sturgis for his part will be gone for much of the summer with the US Under 20 team at the FIFA World Youth Cup. The fact that Frank Yallop seems enamored with Santino Quaranta, who couldn't find himself in the match squad for DC United despite being given numerous chances to do so speaks volumes about the current situation at the Home Depot Center. Steady veterans Peter Vagenas and Cobi Jones will help the cause as will rock solid Jamaican International Defender Tyrone Marshall, but this team minus David Beckham is one of the worst in MLS. Nonetheless a player of Beckham's quality and stature will be good enough to take this team into the playoffs and perhaps beyond. For all of Beckham's detractors, England's shocking form since his departure from the National Team speaks volumes as to his impact on the field. Since he is an unconventional player who lacks pace but is dead ball specialist, he is often maligned. Yet Beckham is one of the greats of our generation and his decision to come to MLS makes this league, inspite of its other faults relevent on the world stage.
4. Chivas USA
Bob Bradley did a remarkable job with this team last season, and was rewarded with the US National Team job. He has been replaced by perhaps the best player in MLS history-Preki. While Chivas LA maintained its latin flavor and emphasis on young American talent was also develop. From that came Jonathan Bornstein (who despite his name is part Mexican and thus fits in well at Chivas) the MLS Rookie of the Year and likely left back of the future for the US National Team. Chivas USA's heart is Claudio Suarez, who last year continued to be an important part of Mexico's World Cup team even at 37. Suarez anchors a back line that is very solid. The midfield will be led this season by Amado Guevara a former league MVP whose lack of discipline and team play ended his stay in New York. Jesse Marsch who started his MLS career by winning the MLS Cup with DC United in the inaugural year of 1996 is still going strong as vital cog in Chivas' attack. Ante Razov had an outstanding year last year with 14 goals, but the loss of Fransisco Palencia and Juan Pablo Garcia could very well be too much to overcome. Cuban defector Raykel Galindo has been impressive in pre-season and could be the other starting forward. Chivas USA appears solid but unspectacular at every position. If David Beckham were not joining the other team that plays at the Home Depot Center, then Chivas would be a playoff lock. As it is, they have a fair chance of making the postseason.
5. Real Salt Lake
RSL may be improved this season with the addition of dynamic offensive talents like Freddy Aduand. Luis Tejeda, a forward from Panama. Their roster reads like a MLS All-Star team or USA “B” squad from about 10 years ago with veterans like Defender Eddie Pope, Midfielders Jason Kreis, Chris Brown, and Chris Klein as well as 2006 MLS leading scorer Jeff Cunningham. The player to watch is Mehdi Ballouchy who is entering his second season in MLS after a successful college career including time at Santa Clara. His technical ability and passing savvy should be enhanced by the offensive additions. Unfortunately for Real the surprise retirement of Goalkeeper Scott Garlick has left them vulnerable in the last third. This came after RSL traded Jay Nolly to DC United. A healthy Pope and U-23 keeper Chris Seitz may help, and could be enough to get Salt Lake into the playoffs. Owner/operator Dave Checketts has let coach John Ellinger know that the current results have not been good enough, and should RSL miss the playoffs again, Ellinger will be looking for work.
6. Colorado Rapids
The Rapids look to be a mess. Despite fancy new uniforms, tie up with Arsenal and a brand new stadium, the roster looks like a work in progress. In the off-season they traded their best player, Joe Cannon, to the Galaxy for Hercules Gomez and Ugo Ihemelu. Ihemelu was badly needed because the Rapdis defense was in a word abysmal last season. The back line will also included three players who have seen better days: Mike Petke, Greg Vanney and Brandon Prideaux. The midfield features two time US World Cup veteran Pablo Mastroeni, Kyle Beckerman and Jovan Kirovski. The attack will be led by Gomez and Panamanian Roberto Brown. This team will need a serious rebuilding phase and some useful advice from Arsene Wenger to be competitive. Fernando Clavijo could be the best coach in MLS, a potential future US National Team boss, but this team will not make him look good.
Best Coach: Fernando Clavijo, Colorado
Best Passer: Dwayne DeRossario, Houston
Best Finisher: Carlos Ruiz, FC Dallas
Best Tackler: Eddie Robinson, Houston
Best Goalkeeper: Dario Sala, FC Dallas
Source:USA Soccer Spot Blog
MLS Eastern Conference Preview PART 1
1. DC United
The signature franchise of Major League Soccer got even stronger this off season with the dumping of malcontent Freddy Adu and two key international signings. Head Coach Peter Nowak resigned to become Bob Bradley's chief assistant with the US National Team, but his replacement Tom Soehn is very capable. Reigning league MVP Christian Gomez returns as does all time leading goal scorer Jaime Moreno to lead an attack that has been joined by two superb Brazilians: A league (Australia) MVP Fred and Luciano Emilio, who scored three goals in CONCACAF Champions Cup action, and has shown an uncanny knack for proper positioning and finishing. Bryan Namoff, Clyde Sims and Brian Carrol and excellent supporting players in the attack and the defense anchored by Bobby Boswell, Joshua Gros and Facundo Erepen is as good as it gets in MLS. Throw in a finally healthy, battle tested Ben Olsen whose versatility and big game acumen is among the best in MLS history and it's no wonder why DC United has been since day one of MLS, the showcase franchise of the league. Troy Perkins provides solid goalkeeping, but with the ten men in front of him, any keeper would look good in the DC keeper shirt. Once again in 2007, DC United will be the class of the league.
2. New England
No team has had harder luck through the 12 year history of Major League Soccer than the Revolution. Whether it was putting up with Walter Zenga's antics, losing top American players to Europe or five near misses at a championship, New England has experienced it all. Last season, the Revolution were oh so close yet again, only to fall short in a penalty kick shootout for the MLS Cup. Super scorer Taylor Twellman reaffirmed his commitment to MLS long term with a new contract. Despite his exclusion for the US World Cup team, Twellman is a goal poacher and finisher unlike any other American born player in the league. Speaking of World Cup snubs, Steve Ralston continues to lead the New England midfield with classy on the ball skills and precision passing. Look for Welsh International Andy Dorman to step into Clint Dempsey's attacking midfield role without missing a beat. Sharlie Joseph continues to anchor a strong defense from his holding midfield position. Joseph who has attracted the interest of Celtic is unhappy with his current contract. If Joseph leaves New England, Daniel Hernandez a tested MLS veteran will fill in nicely. The backline of Michael Parkhurst, a future US international star, veteran Jay Heaps and Trinidad and Tobago World Cup starter Avery John is as good as it gets in MLS. Matt Reis is the best Goalkeeper in MLS, and he will continue to do an excellent job for the Revolution. The biggest concern about this team is finding an adequate strike partner for Twelllman. Pat Noonan is the incumbent, but he is injury prone and tends to disappear in the bigger matches. If the Revolution don't find another pure goal scorer up front, they won't unseat DC United for the Supporters Shield.
3. Chicago
Dave Sarachan's team has the perfect mix of veterans and youth. Chris Armas, entering his 12th MLS season is the glue that holds this team together from the defensive midfield position. Fellow Fire originals CJ Brown and Diego Gutierrez provide veteran leadership to what is an otherwise very young team, especially after letting Nate Jaqua and Zach Thornton go in the off season. Chris Rolfe and Chad Barrett remain capable, competent attacking players with excellent service coming from Justin Mapp and Logan Pause in the midfield. Matt Pickens is solid between the posts, with Jim Curtin anchoring the defense along with CJ Brown. The addition of Cuauhtémoc Blanco could be a boon or a bust. Previous Mexican superstars have performed poorly when bought by MLS, but Blanco unlike Luis Hernandez among others feels as if he has something to prove after being dropped from the Mexican National Team prior to Germany 2006. If anything, Blanco could provide some depth in the attack and help fill up Toyota Park on a regular basis. Chicago will make the playoffs but the US Open Cup which has become a private playground of this club remains the Fire's best chance of earning silverware this season.
1. DC United
The signature franchise of Major League Soccer got even stronger this off season with the dumping of malcontent Freddy Adu and two key international signings. Head Coach Peter Nowak resigned to become Bob Bradley's chief assistant with the US National Team, but his replacement Tom Soehn is very capable. Reigning league MVP Christian Gomez returns as does all time leading goal scorer Jaime Moreno to lead an attack that has been joined by two superb Brazilians: A league (Australia) MVP Fred and Luciano Emilio, who scored three goals in CONCACAF Champions Cup action, and has shown an uncanny knack for proper positioning and finishing. Bryan Namoff, Clyde Sims and Brian Carrol and excellent supporting players in the attack and the defense anchored by Bobby Boswell, Joshua Gros and Facundo Erepen is as good as it gets in MLS. Throw in a finally healthy, battle tested Ben Olsen whose versatility and big game acumen is among the best in MLS history and it's no wonder why DC United has been since day one of MLS, the showcase franchise of the league. Troy Perkins provides solid goalkeeping, but with the ten men in front of him, any keeper would look good in the DC keeper shirt. Once again in 2007, DC United will be the class of the league.
2. New England
No team has had harder luck through the 12 year history of Major League Soccer than the Revolution. Whether it was putting up with Walter Zenga's antics, losing top American players to Europe or five near misses at a championship, New England has experienced it all. Last season, the Revolution were oh so close yet again, only to fall short in a penalty kick shootout for the MLS Cup. Super scorer Taylor Twellman reaffirmed his commitment to MLS long term with a new contract. Despite his exclusion for the US World Cup team, Twellman is a goal poacher and finisher unlike any other American born player in the league. Speaking of World Cup snubs, Steve Ralston continues to lead the New England midfield with classy on the ball skills and precision passing. Look for Welsh International Andy Dorman to step into Clint Dempsey's attacking midfield role without missing a beat. Sharlie Joseph continues to anchor a strong defense from his holding midfield position. Joseph who has attracted the interest of Celtic is unhappy with his current contract. If Joseph leaves New England, Daniel Hernandez a tested MLS veteran will fill in nicely. The backline of Michael Parkhurst, a future US international star, veteran Jay Heaps and Trinidad and Tobago World Cup starter Avery John is as good as it gets in MLS. Matt Reis is the best Goalkeeper in MLS, and he will continue to do an excellent job for the Revolution. The biggest concern about this team is finding an adequate strike partner for Twelllman. Pat Noonan is the incumbent, but he is injury prone and tends to disappear in the bigger matches. If the Revolution don't find another pure goal scorer up front, they won't unseat DC United for the Supporters Shield.
3. Chicago
Dave Sarachan's team has the perfect mix of veterans and youth. Chris Armas, entering his 12th MLS season is the glue that holds this team together from the defensive midfield position. Fellow Fire originals CJ Brown and Diego Gutierrez provide veteran leadership to what is an otherwise very young team, especially after letting Nate Jaqua and Zach Thornton go in the off season. Chris Rolfe and Chad Barrett remain capable, competent attacking players with excellent service coming from Justin Mapp and Logan Pause in the midfield. Matt Pickens is solid between the posts, with Jim Curtin anchoring the defense along with CJ Brown. The addition of Cuauhtémoc Blanco could be a boon or a bust. Previous Mexican superstars have performed poorly when bought by MLS, but Blanco unlike Luis Hernandez among others feels as if he has something to prove after being dropped from the Mexican National Team prior to Germany 2006. If anything, Blanco could provide some depth in the attack and help fill up Toyota Park on a regular basis. Chicago will make the playoffs but the US Open Cup which has become a private playground of this club remains the Fire's best chance of earning silverware this season.
PART 2
4. Kansas City
Curt Onolfo, a longtime assistant under Bruce Arena with DC United and the US National Team takes over as the new head man in Kansas City. This franchise has had remarkable continuity through the years with basically two head coaches: legendary Ron Newman and under appreciated Bob Gansler. Now with new ownership and a new coach the Wizards are in some ways starting completely anew. Much has been written on this website and others about the poor play of Eddie Johnson, the Kansas City and US National Team Forward. Johnson has an excellent relationship with Onalfo and should return to form this year. Kevin Hartman who has been perhaps the best Goalkeeper in MLS history arrives to stabilize what has been a bad situation since Tony Meola left a few years ago. Kansas City's back line anchored by US World Cup veteran Jimmy Conrad and Nick Garcia is solid. Keep an eye on left back Jose Burciaga Jr. who is one of the most underrated players in the league. The Wizards midfield is an experienced unit led by Kerry Zavagnin and Sasha Victorine. Will John is a promising young midfielder to keep an eye on. The attack lost Josh Wolff to Bundesligia side 1860 Munich, but up and coming Trinidad International Scott Sealy will effectively replace Wolff. The Wizards have the right combination of players to return to the playoffs this season.
5. Toronto FC
Major League Soccer is more committed than your average North American professional sports league to allowing expansion teams to be competitive. Expansion club Toronto FC has not only sold out season tickets in its state of the art new stadium, but has together a roster that will be able to compete for a playoff birth in its inaugural season. The attacks will feature Alecko Eskandarian, Conor Casey and Edson Buddle. On the surface that lineup of forwards is probably as good as any in MLS aside from DC United, despite Toronto being a new team. The midfield is equally capable featuring former FC Dallas stars Ronnie O'Brien and Richard Mulrooney, along with Jose Cancela the former New England man, and Carl Robinson who has been one of the better players for the Welsh National Team in Euro 2008 qualifying. Again, Toronto could have the best midfield in the league aside from DC United. But the back line is where it becomes obvious that Toronto is an expansion team. By emphasizing the selection of attacking players coach Mo Johnston has neglected defense almost entirely. The squad lacks quality experienced professionals at the back and Greg Sutton, one of the best goalkeepers from USL (the American second division) will be tested often thanks to the rag tag nature of the defense. Rumors are abound that Johnston will dangle one or more of Toronto's numerous attacking options as trade bait to acquire a defender. If Johnston is successful in acquiring defensive help, Toronto FC could be a very dangerous team come playoff time.
6. Columbus
Sigi Schmid is one of the best teachers American soccer has produced. But this team continues to be too young and too raw to compete for a playoff spot. the addition of Costa Rican Forward Andy Herron, who scored nine times for Chicago last season helps, but the rest of the attacking lineup which includes Kei Kamara, Jacob Thomas, Jason Garey and Joseph Ngwenya are far from impressive. Perhaps US U-20 star Robbie Rogers who has returned stateside from a stint in Holland can help, but Rogers is youngish wing player and may take some time to get fully integrated in the MLS. The Crew midfield is led by Eddie Gaven who has underachieved in his MLS career. Still Gaven scored four goals and added four assists last year to lead the attack. US International Frankie Hedjuk tore his ACL right before the World Cup (a contributing factor to the US' poor play) and should be fully healthy. Hedjuk however is a rare breed in world soccer: he has in fact had a more productive career with his national team than with his clubs. Robbie Rogers as mentioned above can play on the right side of midfield and Danny O'Rourke should see regular action as well. Duncan Oughton, the capable New Zealand's who was Columbus go to midfielder in past years has essentially missed two straight seasons with injuries. If Oughton is healthy this season, Columbus could make a serious playoff push, but The defense is solid with veterans Rusty Pearce and Ezra Hendrickson joined by excellent US youth international Chad Marshall. The Goalkeeper situation has been a mess since Johny Walker suffered a career ending injury two years ago. Bill Gaudette is the likely starter.
7. Red Bull New York
Bruce Arena is the best American born coach in the history of soccer. But Arena, much like World Cup Champion Coach Carlos Alberto Parriera, Manchester United heir apparent Carlos Quieroz and respect international coach Bora Milutinovic, did not know what he was getting himself into with this rudderless, lost franchise. While the ownership of Red Bull is a step forward the team is possibly the worst in MLS. The retirement of former French World Cup star Youri Djorkaeff, and the trade of Amado Guevara to Chivas USA left a door open for Claudio Reyna the longtime US captain who was released by Manchester City in January. Reyna was signed under the MLS' "Beckham Rule" which was supposed to be used by clubs to sign international superstars. It can be argued however that Reyna despite his high salary is an inadequate offensive replacement for Guevara and Djorkaeff. The Red Bulls have trouble scoring goals, and Reyna has essentially played a defensive midfield position (and played it well when healthy) for both Manchester City and Sunderland his last two clubs. The Red Bulls have very little in the attack. John Wolyniec who years ago showed up the Metrostars in an exhibition with the team's then minor league affiliate on Long Island is the only somewhat accomplished attacker on the team. Josmer Altidore is a future superstar of the US National Team program (in fact some including myself believe he will be better than Freddy Adu), but at just 17 he cannot be forced into a saviors role. Besides, Altidore will be gone while representing the US at the FIFA World Youth Championships right in the middle of the campaign. Perhaps when Mike Magee, a natural midfielder returns from injury in June he can play forward. Journeyman midfielder Demo Kovelenko and Dutch International Dave Van Den Bergh will provide support to Reyna, while the back line could be a disaster. Marvell Wynne, Tim Regan and Todd Dunivant are all players with great potential but cannot yet be relied on to be battle tested against some of the better attacking units in MLS. Tony Meola's departure opened to door for Ronald Watterhaus who was an average keeper at Manchester City. Considering the high level of goalkeeping in MLS (the only area where MLS stacks up favorably with many European first divisions) he maybe below average for the Red Bulls.
4. Kansas City
Curt Onolfo, a longtime assistant under Bruce Arena with DC United and the US National Team takes over as the new head man in Kansas City. This franchise has had remarkable continuity through the years with basically two head coaches: legendary Ron Newman and under appreciated Bob Gansler. Now with new ownership and a new coach the Wizards are in some ways starting completely anew. Much has been written on this website and others about the poor play of Eddie Johnson, the Kansas City and US National Team Forward. Johnson has an excellent relationship with Onalfo and should return to form this year. Kevin Hartman who has been perhaps the best Goalkeeper in MLS history arrives to stabilize what has been a bad situation since Tony Meola left a few years ago. Kansas City's back line anchored by US World Cup veteran Jimmy Conrad and Nick Garcia is solid. Keep an eye on left back Jose Burciaga Jr. who is one of the most underrated players in the league. The Wizards midfield is an experienced unit led by Kerry Zavagnin and Sasha Victorine. Will John is a promising young midfielder to keep an eye on. The attack lost Josh Wolff to Bundesligia side 1860 Munich, but up and coming Trinidad International Scott Sealy will effectively replace Wolff. The Wizards have the right combination of players to return to the playoffs this season.
5. Toronto FC
Major League Soccer is more committed than your average North American professional sports league to allowing expansion teams to be competitive. Expansion club Toronto FC has not only sold out season tickets in its state of the art new stadium, but has together a roster that will be able to compete for a playoff birth in its inaugural season. The attacks will feature Alecko Eskandarian, Conor Casey and Edson Buddle. On the surface that lineup of forwards is probably as good as any in MLS aside from DC United, despite Toronto being a new team. The midfield is equally capable featuring former FC Dallas stars Ronnie O'Brien and Richard Mulrooney, along with Jose Cancela the former New England man, and Carl Robinson who has been one of the better players for the Welsh National Team in Euro 2008 qualifying. Again, Toronto could have the best midfield in the league aside from DC United. But the back line is where it becomes obvious that Toronto is an expansion team. By emphasizing the selection of attacking players coach Mo Johnston has neglected defense almost entirely. The squad lacks quality experienced professionals at the back and Greg Sutton, one of the best goalkeepers from USL (the American second division) will be tested often thanks to the rag tag nature of the defense. Rumors are abound that Johnston will dangle one or more of Toronto's numerous attacking options as trade bait to acquire a defender. If Johnston is successful in acquiring defensive help, Toronto FC could be a very dangerous team come playoff time.
6. Columbus
Sigi Schmid is one of the best teachers American soccer has produced. But this team continues to be too young and too raw to compete for a playoff spot. the addition of Costa Rican Forward Andy Herron, who scored nine times for Chicago last season helps, but the rest of the attacking lineup which includes Kei Kamara, Jacob Thomas, Jason Garey and Joseph Ngwenya are far from impressive. Perhaps US U-20 star Robbie Rogers who has returned stateside from a stint in Holland can help, but Rogers is youngish wing player and may take some time to get fully integrated in the MLS. The Crew midfield is led by Eddie Gaven who has underachieved in his MLS career. Still Gaven scored four goals and added four assists last year to lead the attack. US International Frankie Hedjuk tore his ACL right before the World Cup (a contributing factor to the US' poor play) and should be fully healthy. Hedjuk however is a rare breed in world soccer: he has in fact had a more productive career with his national team than with his clubs. Robbie Rogers as mentioned above can play on the right side of midfield and Danny O'Rourke should see regular action as well. Duncan Oughton, the capable New Zealand's who was Columbus go to midfielder in past years has essentially missed two straight seasons with injuries. If Oughton is healthy this season, Columbus could make a serious playoff push, but The defense is solid with veterans Rusty Pearce and Ezra Hendrickson joined by excellent US youth international Chad Marshall. The Goalkeeper situation has been a mess since Johny Walker suffered a career ending injury two years ago. Bill Gaudette is the likely starter.
7. Red Bull New York
Bruce Arena is the best American born coach in the history of soccer. But Arena, much like World Cup Champion Coach Carlos Alberto Parriera, Manchester United heir apparent Carlos Quieroz and respect international coach Bora Milutinovic, did not know what he was getting himself into with this rudderless, lost franchise. While the ownership of Red Bull is a step forward the team is possibly the worst in MLS. The retirement of former French World Cup star Youri Djorkaeff, and the trade of Amado Guevara to Chivas USA left a door open for Claudio Reyna the longtime US captain who was released by Manchester City in January. Reyna was signed under the MLS' "Beckham Rule" which was supposed to be used by clubs to sign international superstars. It can be argued however that Reyna despite his high salary is an inadequate offensive replacement for Guevara and Djorkaeff. The Red Bulls have trouble scoring goals, and Reyna has essentially played a defensive midfield position (and played it well when healthy) for both Manchester City and Sunderland his last two clubs. The Red Bulls have very little in the attack. John Wolyniec who years ago showed up the Metrostars in an exhibition with the team's then minor league affiliate on Long Island is the only somewhat accomplished attacker on the team. Josmer Altidore is a future superstar of the US National Team program (in fact some including myself believe he will be better than Freddy Adu), but at just 17 he cannot be forced into a saviors role. Besides, Altidore will be gone while representing the US at the FIFA World Youth Championships right in the middle of the campaign. Perhaps when Mike Magee, a natural midfielder returns from injury in June he can play forward. Journeyman midfielder Demo Kovelenko and Dutch International Dave Van Den Bergh will provide support to Reyna, while the back line could be a disaster. Marvell Wynne, Tim Regan and Todd Dunivant are all players with great potential but cannot yet be relied on to be battle tested against some of the better attacking units in MLS. Tony Meola's departure opened to door for Ronald Watterhaus who was an average keeper at Manchester City. Considering the high level of goalkeeping in MLS (the only area where MLS stacks up favorably with many European first divisions) he maybe below average for the Red Bulls.
CONCACAF Champions Cup Semifinal # 2
Pachuca 5 (5)
Dynamo 2 (4)
Goals
1-0 Gabriel Caballero (3')
2-0 Christian Giménez (15') (Pen.)
2-1 Brian Mullan (53')
3-1 Christian Giménez (58') (Pen.)
3-2 Brian Ching (79')
4-2 Gabriel Caballero (85')
5-2 Christian Giménez (105')
Extra Time victory by Pachuca =/
That means I don't get to watch Chivas play against Dynamo here anymore ; ;
On the bright side, the Champions Cup will remain in Mexico another year (since America(Mex) won the cup last year
)
Finals
-
April 17-19
-
April 24-26
The winner of this tourney will represent CONCACAF in the Club World Cup in Japan
GO CHIVAS!
Goals
Extra Time victory by Pachuca =/
That means I don't get to watch Chivas play against Dynamo here anymore ; ;
On the bright side, the Champions Cup will remain in Mexico another year (since America(Mex) won the cup last year
)Finals
-
April 17-19
April 24-26
The winner of this tourney will represent CONCACAF in the Club World Cup in Japan
GO CHIVAS!
![Hazi[LP]Tonz](/data/avatars/m/9/9170.jpg?1421958309){kind=avatar}
Hazi[LP]Tonz
Well-Known Member
- Joined
- Mar 14, 2006
- Location
- Sydney
good champions league action this last day aye
ac milan- bayern 2-2
liverpool-psv 3-0
man U-roma 1-2
chelsea-valencia 1-1
alot of good games, shame about the psv game...everything else is very close and on knifes edge, bayern have the lead with 2 crucial away goals,valencia and manchester both have away goals
cant wait for next week
ac milan- bayern 2-2
liverpool-psv 3-0
man U-roma 1-2
chelsea-valencia 1-1
alot of good games, shame about the psv game...everything else is very close and on knifes edge, bayern have the lead with 2 crucial away goals,valencia and manchester both have away goals
cant wait for next week
![Hazi[LP]Tonz](/data/avatars/s/9/9170.jpg?1421958309){kind=avatar}