Match Previews - Top Content

Santos vs Barcelona - CWC 2011 Final

Sun, 18 Dec 2011 04:05:11 +0000

Santos vs Barcelona - FIFA Club World Cup 2011 - Final

Santos part by (it's a) me (,Mario)

This is the game that brazilian football fans have been waiting for months, maybe years. The CWC final and its equivalents from the past are seen in Brazil as an epic chance for the glory of beating european giants in a serious competition. Victories like Flamengo's against Liverpool in 1981 and São Paulo's against Barça in 1993 (is that right?) are still celebrated decades later, and treated as important pieces of these clubs' histories. We know the europeans don't care about that competition as much as we do, but we like to kick their asses either way. This match in particular is really special, because Santos' got two of the most promising brazilian youngsters of the decade, the best brazilian coach in the last 5 years, and they'll be facing this Barça, one of the best teams of all-time. Realistic people know Santos has very limited chances of winning, but they'll probably be satisfied if they at least give Barça a good fight, like Estudiantes two years ago.

This whole speech is beautiful, but Santos hasn't shown anything in the last 5 months - and especially against Kashiwa - that could justify a more rational optimism. Ganso has been injured for most of the last 4 or 5 months, same with Elano. Léo is still not entirely recovered from injury and after Alex Sandro was sold, Santos' got no reliable LB. Plus Adriano - yeah, they've got one too! -, Santos' best midfielder defensively, is injured and didn't even travel to Japan. The kid could be one hell of a help against a midfield like Barça's. Elano and Ganso came back only a few weeks ago, Léo probably won't play, and Henrique replaced Adriano. Other factor that deserves to be mentioned is the fact that Barça is in the middle of their season. Santos' season is nearly over now, after more than 80 matches, I would presume. Neymar himself played like 73 matches this year.

Santos' ain't exactly a defensive side, but I expect them to play a counter-attack-based game tomorrow. They know Barça will have at least 60% and they know they won't have the energy or even the players to pressure Barça upfront like Real did, so it's best to accept that and at least try not to expose the defenders. Expose the defenders... that's the most dangerous thing that could happen to Santos. Danilo is a beast, but the other 3 defenders are kinda slow and will be destroyed if not protected and covered well. Basically, I think Muricy will try to hold the defense tight and hope for something magical from Ganso, Neymar or Borges in a counter-attack or something like that. Ganso in particular worries me. He's not at his best, both physically and technically, and wasn't even close to being influential enough against Kashiwa or in the two or three Brasileiro matches he played before this competition. And the thought of him facing Busquets, a guy who can stop Özil and make it look easy, is quite scary. Same with Neymar facing Puyol on that left flank, even though I know he can cause great harm if offered space. I don't know, maybe Muricy will surprise everyone and come up with a 3-CBs defense? We'll see.

Rafael Cabral

Danilo - Edu Dracena - Bruno Rodrigo - Durval

Henrique - Arouca

Elano - Ganso - Neymar

Borges

Something like this would please me

Barça part by Vickery

As a sportsman, you usually want to win for prestige, recognition, glory. You want to win to make your teammates, coaches, fans, family happy and proud of your achievements. Sometimes though, you just get the added motivation and desire to do more. And I'm not talking about finals, big games and the like here. No, I'm talking about the kind of motivation you wish weren't there, but now that there is, it drives you even more. For FC Barcelona, that kind of motivation has been present lately quite a bit. Earlier in the year Eric Abidal was diagnosed with a liver tumor and he came back to win the Champions League final in London. A few weeks ago, Tito Vilanova, Pep Guardiola's trusted second man, had a similar kind of operation, only on his parotid gland. He came back last Saturday to see the team win a crucial Clasico in the league. David Villa won't be with the team on Sunday physically, but mentally he most certainly will. And these boys will do everything in their power to win it for him, since it's the only title the Asturian striker hasn't yet won in his illustrious career.

On the playing front, Barcelona are a bit more decimated than they would've liked going into the game with Santos. With the long term absences of Villa and Afellay, Alexis Sanchez is doubtful for the game after picking up a slight knock in the game against Al-Sadd. Puyol, Mascherano and Pedro all got slight knocks in that game as well, but they are relatively unscathed. Having said that, the lineup could look like this:

Valdés

Puyol - Piqué - Abidal

Busquets

Dani Alves - Xavi - Iniesta - Cesc

Messi - Pedro

The worry would obviously be a lack of a more focal up front with Villa injured and Alexis doubtful, but the intention will be to dominate possession and to stop the ball from reaching Ganso, Neymar or Borges.

El Clasico Match Preview

Sat, 10 Dec 2011 17:30:16 +0000

Match Preview on the forums. Topic Thread: LINK

From Risto - REAL MADRID

How's it going boys? It's time for the Clásico!

With around 24 hours left before the game, one name is on Real Madrid's fans' lips: Lassana Diarra. Wait! What?! Lassana Diarra? Lassana 'Lass' Diarra? The oh-so-useless body that Mou never used last season is now guaranteed a place in the team. And not only that, but his role is going to decide a lot about how the game will go. Wow. That's a huge role for someone who's considered a left-over in Mourinho's franchise.

Okay, maybe I am overreacting here, but Lass is going to be huge in this game. If Arbeloa is unable to play as the right back, Lass will play there, leaving a gap to the midfield in Mourinho's big-game-four-three-three. He essentially has only Coentrão to fill that gap on the midfield (who, frankly, could play as the right back, which would be, however, risky).

The boys at zonalmarking made an interesting point about the game: for years it hasn't been this difficult to predict the line-ups. Barcelona have several options, and so does Mourinho. The most important thing about this game is the fact that Real Madrid do not have to win this game, while it's essential for Barcelona to do so. Mourinho will definitely settle for a draw, but the Madridistas will also. With the league divided so greatly to the two Clásicos, six points after the first one is a nasty lead.

Barcelona have proven under Guardiola to be the best with their backs against the wall, but now they face a completely different kind of challenge: a very confident and well-playing Madrid side that doesn't have to be afraid of losing because they will still remain the leaders... and also a furious crowd. I honest to god can't remember the last time Madrid went to a home Clásico with a point-advantage, let alone six. That's a huge factor.

Mourinho has seemed to learn from his mistakes and has been very quiet about all this, making sure not to make it too easy to get motivated for the Barcelona squad. The players have learned their lesson from last season's first Clásico, and the practice matches from this year. They know how, at least in theory, to win this game. They can play a more relaxed game of football with hopefully huge support from the home crowd.

Bullet points about the game:

What will Messi do, and what will Mourinho do to stop him? With Fàbregas and Alexis, they have more firepower, which might actually work well for Real. Now they have to defend a team, not one man, so stuff like the Villa-Albiol penalty accident will not happen.
How long can Madrid press? It's obvious they'll come out like street dogs, run the hearts out of their chests, but they have to cool down and wrap it up. Some Spanish experts say they'll press hard for the first 30 minutes, and then shut the blocks.
The first goal. Gosh, first goal, it's such a cliché. But still. Madrid can't allow Barcelona to score the first one which they definitely want early on. Madrid need to be cool in front of the net, because both teams will get great chances to score (I think the level of finishing will ultimately decide this game).
Midfield. Khedira needs to shut down Xavi like he has shown he can, and Lass needs to deal with Iniesta. They need to make room for Alonso to protect the defence and launch the counter-attacks.

CASILLAS

ARBELOA - PEPE - RAMOS - MARCELO

ALONSO

LASSANA - SAMI KHEDIRA

DI MARÍA - BENZEMA - RONALDO

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From Cam - FC BARCELONA

Saturday we play a retarded repulsive reeking redeemed Real Madrid. Those Madridistas are first place in the league with a six point lead over FC Barcelona. Their forwards are in superb form. Their midfield is disjointed yet effective. The back line is solid. How are we to go about this?

Barcelona looks more vulnerable than ever on the road this season. The team has suffered three 2-2 away draws to Valencia, Athletic Bilbao and Real Sociedad. All the goals Barcelona have conceded this year have been away from Camp Nou.

Fortunately, everyone except Ibrahim Afellay are available for selection. This is the opportunity Josep must take. If Barcelona prevails, the deficit is cut to three points and the campaign is right back on track. A draw sees the status quo prevail, and would surely be a moral victory for Madrid. Defeat sees those wretched wasteful Whites taking a nine point lead. Nine points would look like an insurmountable total to eclipse.

How to go about dismantling miserable mad mortifying Mourinho and his rag tag bunch of hooligans?

Josep will surely want to stick to the traditional 4-3-3 or a 4-1-2-1-2. A three man back would open up the field for Madrid endlessly every time they retrieve possession. Their defensive line will be a high one. This year they look impressive with the space they close down. An Abidal, Pique and Puyol combination would simply not be enough against the pace of Ronaldo, Benzema and Di Maria.

In midfield, it looks increasingly likely that Mourinho will play detrimental Diarra, astute Alonso (respect) and klusterfuck Khedira. This would surely be to stifle Barcelona's midfield creativity. Lass especially has endless energy and is a dogged pursuer of the ball. Ramos and Pepe have plenty of pace and crazy at the back to hamper the slashing runs into the box. Marcelo will team up with Ronaldo to make bombing runs down the left hand side in an attempt to overwhelm Alves and pen Alexis deep in our own half.

We'll use standard tactics to combat this, and rely on the collective understanding and brilliance of the team to unlock this badly built breaking Bernabeu fortress.

Abidal - Pique - Puyol - Alves at the back. Alves dominated Ronaldo in the Spanish Super Cup, and if Madrid get behind, look for Ronaldo to attempt his hero tactics once again. Plays right into our hands. Pique - Puyol are solid at the back, with the aging Tarzan still an ever present and calming force in the side. Piquenbauer to initiate attacks from the back, hopefully bringing pressure to the Madrid midfield and pulling them out of position. Abidal has dat pace for Di Maria, albeit he has looked a bit out of form as of late.

Busquets - Iniesta - Xavi are the standard three for this side. Busquets with the incredible vision and reading of the game to protect the back before they realize it. Xaviesta. That's all I need to say there.

Villa - Messi - Alexis. Villa is a force to be reckoned with in big games. His dipping pile driver in August was astonishing. He is a man for the big moments, and will work nail and tooth to help the side. Messi needs to be more active in this game. What I mean by more active is moving into space to receive the ball, not standing still and expecting it as he usually does. Alexis has a great work ethic and he was good in his debut against the side. Perhaps he will switch wings with Villa, as he looks amazing on the left.

The lulz were had

We're left with the strongest formation we can conceive:

Valdes

Alves - Puyol - Pique - Abidal

Busquets

Xavi - Iniesta

Messi

Alexis ----------------Villa

Subs: Pinto, Cesc, Pedro, Keita, Mascherano, Adriano, Thiago.

Visca el Barça!

Fuck you Real Madrid. I hope we embarrass yall like 6-2 and manita. Though I am not expecting it.

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Topic Thread: LINK

Basel vs Manchester United

Wed, 07 Dec 2011 16:48:23 +0000

Not many predicted, I don't think anyone did, Manchester United would have to at least draw away to Basel, in Switzerland, to stand a chance of progressing through to the last 16. Not the most familiar of territories for Manchester United, who have not replicated their domestic form to Champions League form. Instead, we've seen some subdued performances from The Red Devils, and most of that is primarily down to Sir Alex Ferguson's squad rotation policy, which, in truth, has hindered Manchester United's progress. However, in essence, they should be top of the table, without any excuses. Manchester United currently lie behind Benfica, with 9 points, on goal difference, while Basel are a point adrift. This game could go either way, Manchester United or even Basel have a chance of topping the group. This is not the Champions League predicament you expected them to face at the start of the season.

It's unbelievable how much Manchester United has changed as a team since the 1-6 defeat to their arch rivals, Manchester City. Prior to the defeat, they were playing fluid, free flowing, attacking football, which was the best you could possibly get out of this current side (debatable), but they had a very leaky defence, most blame should be on the two central midfielders, Anderson and Cleverley, who have left masses of space for the opposition to exploit, which ironically didn't go noticed until Manchester United faced Basel at Old Trafford, in the breath taking 3-3 draw, but Cleverley wasn't present. Currently, Manchester United aren't playing the best of football, far from it, but they're getting the results which is the most important thing. As opposed to the beautiful elegance of their football at the start of this season, we're witnessing a lot of labour, just grinding out the win, showcasing the steel that makes Manchester United, well, Manchester United.

de Gea

Smalling - Vidic - Ferdinand - Evra

Jones

Fletcher - Giggs

Nani - Rooney - Park

David de Gea is expected to return in goal, after being rested against Aston Villa. Since the Bolton game away from home, which Manchester United comfortably won 5-0, the young Spaniard's confidence has risen to new heights; who would've thought that? He's gone on to make some crucial saves, just take a look at the last few games, where he has made some world class saves. Put all of that aside, it doesn't matter what you've done or what potential you have, de Gea simply has to put all nerves to one side, arguably this is his biggest game in a Manchester United shirt, based on circumstances alone. At right back, the ever so reliable, Chris Smalling. Smalling has flourished as a right back, showing how versatile and valuable an asset he is. On the other end, Patrice Evra, who has looked a shadow of his former self for quite some time, hasn't performed consistently enough in the Champions League, he simply has to deliver. At the heart of the defence, Nemanja Vidic, who has been sorely missed, and Rio Ferdinand, who looks more confident and solid with Vidic by his side. Not expecting them, especially the former, to lose any aerial duels, with the way they've performed over the past few games. Destitute of authority? Not any more.

With the absence of Michael Carrick, which is a big blow considering he was Manchester United's best player last month, Phil Jones is the ideal man to take his role, which is where he essentially started off as with Blackburn (as a defensive midfielder). Performed considerably well against Aston Villa, scoring his first career goal with Manchester United. To partner him: Darren Fletcher and Ryan Giggs. Fletcher's industry is essential in a game of this magnitude, and, well, Giggs... something tells me he's going to be the creator in the middle of the park. It's not the most creative midfield on display, but the industry that Jones and Fletcher offer will help Manchester United's midfield battle. A 4-4-2 simply cannot be deployed, unless you want to get outnumbered, which we've seen far too many teams over the past three seasons, if you're a Manchester United fan.

Finally, Luis Nani to attack down the right. The Portuguese delivery (not corners) specialist has been reignited after his impressive performance against Benfica. He simply has to start, you need quality in abundance in this game, and there's no one better than Nani down the right, simple as. On the left, the ever so industrious, Park Ji-Sung. Park has degraded in quality, he performs extremely well in big games, which is one of the main reasons he has to start, but when he has faced inferior opposition this season - he has flattered to deceive. The lone striker, Wayne Rooney, will have to be on his best behaviour. No need for stupidity, no over exuberance. Hasn't scored for 9 games in the league, his midfield transition hasn't done him any favours, but has shown glimpses of the quality he showed in 09/10. Expect him to lead the line efficiently.

Let's face it, Manchester United should've qualified into the last 16 last week, when they faced Benfica at Old Trafford, or even earlier. The enduring problems with regards to Ferguson tweaking the formation and personnel has done The Red Devils no favour. Now, even if they do qualify, they can potentially face the likes of Barcelona or Real Madrid. What Manchester United have shown over and over again, is that they are more than resilient, they can bounce right back up from an upset. Sit tight, folks, because it's going to be a bumpy 90 + mins of football you will witness on Wednesday night, far from predictable, too.

Barcelona - Mallorca

Fri, 28 Oct 2011 17:19:17 +0000

Saturday we are getting visitors from the isle of Mallorca. Mallorca is currently on the 13th place on the table, with nine points. They are coming to the game as a underdogs, but hey who isn't when they come to Camp Nou? So actually it doesn't matter. If they can keep us with out goals as long as possible, they might have a chance to surprise. But honestly I just can't see that coming.

We've had two pretty tough games. First against Sevilla which ended 0-0 as we all know and on Tuesday we had hard night against Granada, which we luckily turned to our 0-1 victory over them with Xavi's freekick. So we took the important three points. But on Tuesday we faced, once again, a new injury which will keep Pedro out at least for two weeks. So Pep have once again situation where he has to change the starting XI. But what do you think if I say that we have made better performances with 3-4-3 than 4-3-3? I honestly think this could be a place where we should take 3-4-3.

What I'm thinking is that defensive line is going to be almost the same as we had against Grenada. Except we take the left back out. So Maxwell out and then move Abidal from the middle to his place on the left. Then of course Alves on the right and then leave the center area for Mascherano. While we have only three players on the defensive line, that means Busquets is taking the bottom of the center midfield as a defensive midfielder. Above him Xavi and Thiago sharing the ball to attackers or then to Cesc who should be above them as a attacking midfielder. So far it looks pretty good to me, but then we'll face the big question. How we should build up the attacking trio? This could be one of those matches where Messi might have a chance to rest, but while we are having this situation with our attackers, which keeps Pedro, Sanchez and Afellay out, who should take his place? Of course there's Villa and Iniesta, but what should we do with the thrid one? Maybe give an opportunity to Cuenca or then just put Messi on the field no matter what! What do you think? For me, Cuenca as a third one, doesn't sound bad at all. Then I'd build up the trio with Cuenca and Inesta on the sides and Villa between them, but that's just my opinion.
So I'd like to see this kinda formation:

Valdes

Alves - Masch - Abidal

Busquets

Xavi - Thiago

Cesc

Cuenca - Villa - Iniesta

Anyway, once again we have two most important things what we want to see. Three points and no more injuries. That could be already a motto for us before every game, but it's just the fact. Then there's also some other things that, I guess, we all want to see. One of those is that we have to get our happiness and confidence back to our game. Of course that Messi have had two hard games, reflects to the whole team, that's for sure. But now when he might get some rest and come back as a normal, phenomenal him, others might get some confidence and success without him and then that might do some good in the long run, but I dunno, that's just an opinion. But all in all we have to handle with this situation what we have and still get a good result so we'll take those three points. Even it might sound something else, I'm having a good feeling about this.

Visca el Barça!

Liverpool vs Manchester United, Match Preview

Fri, 14 Oct 2011 19:15:33 +0000

This is always been the biggest match of the season for me. The Merseyside derby is a massive game and probably produced more exciting games over the years, but the game against United has a much bigger worldwide influence. The fact that United overhauled Liverpool's long standing record of 18 league titles should make this an even tastier affair.

No doubt that when Saturday starts, the handful of brave United fans who will make their way into Anfield will no doubt be chanting their now famous "19" all the time but hopefully that would serve as motivation for the home fans to completely overpower them and in turn spur on the Liverpool players to put on a magnificent performance. I think we've had the upperhand over them in recent years. Even though they did beat us twice last season, the first game we lost 3-2 despite playing very average and the second meeting was lost due to another contentious refereeing decision.

Last season hurt every single Liverpool fan. Out of all my time supporting Liverpool, I never ever expected United to catch us but I think it was needed because the club has been stagnant for 20 years. That really gave everyone a massive wake up call and the new owners have in turn spent considerably to try and bridge that gap. Granted, we are still a level below our northwest rivals, but this past summer was definitely the first step in bridging that gap.

From a selection point of view, the thing most people are talking about is if Gerrard will start and whether Kenny will stick with 4-4-2 or go more compact with 3 in the middle. Personally, I don't think it matters because we are at home and as long as we hit them hard from the go, like we've done in recent fixtures, we've seen that they can't cope.

Tactical Analysis:

The game will be won or lost in 2 areas. If Liverpool are to win the game, we're gonna need to take control of midfield. That's how we've beaten them recently and I'm sure that's the area Kenny will try to overcome. The big question however is how United are going to set up. I think if Fergie is brave and stupid, he'll go with 2 in the middle which would really make our jobs that much easier. I would have thought that by now Fergie would have learnt his lesson and play 3 in the middle but after United's good start to the season, he might just feel that with confidence high, he can overcome Liverpool with that tactic. Personally, I don't think it'll work but I guess we'll see.

If Liverpool can control the midfield, it would mean that we'll be cutting off their supply line to their wide players who I feel are where United pose the biggest threat. The signing of Jose Enrique does make a massive difference to our defence and I'm certain he will keep Nani out but it's on the other side where I'm most worried. Ashley Young could cause us big problems so Kelly would have to be on his game.

Our main weapon is definitely Luis Suarez. In the corresponding fixture last season, he completely ripped United's defence a new one with a magnificent solo run so hopefully he can built on that. The partnership with Carroll has looked better in these past 2 games which is important as well. I think United have definitely looked vulnerable in the air with Evans and Jones still a very young partnership. If Vidic is back, it'll make a massive difference to them but we are definitely his bogey team and somehow puts in some poor performances. Hopefully that'll continue.

The pace we play at is definitely the key area though. If we can play at a high tempo and starve them from possession, the chances are we'll win the game. If we start slowly and allow them to settle, it could be our undoing.

Possible Line-up:

Substitutes:
Doni
Johnson
Skrtel
Adam
Henderson
Bellamy
Maxi

Il Capitano

Here we go; it’s that time of the season again. Hopefully, we will be indulged in sheer beauty coming from Manchester United. We’ve never lost four consecutive away games against Liverpool in the league and let’s hope it remains that way. For the past three seasons—at Anfield—the games have been a quite predictable one sided affair. The last time we met Liverpool, we were run ragged by Suárez, who was making his league début for The Kop.

The thing that concerns me the most is our inability to make things tick in the middle of the park, over the past three seasons. Of course, we are a changed side, we’re much better at creating chances, but we may find ourselves chasing the game. It doesn’t help having just two central midfielders, ideally three will do the trick at least, primarily because we won’t get overrun in the middle of the park, where the game will be won. That’s been one of the main problems, though, it needs to be addressed. Our resilient side hasn’t been shown enough unfortunately, and even though we’re on a high, if there’s any team that can beat us then it’s definitely Liverpool. They seem to enjoy these games more than our lot, their eagerness and determination has prevailed over ours.

de Gea

Jones - Ferdinand - Vidić - Evra

Carrick

Fletcher - Anderson

Nani - Rooney - Young

Arguably David de Gea’s biggest game in a Manchester United shirt (there’s more to come). Started off the season in slow fashion, but he has shown signs of his Atlético Madrid form. Ironically he has made the most saves in the league. It’s definitely a crucial game for the Spaniard. Ideally, Jones at right back and Evra at left back. The former has done a great job whenever he’s been called upon, and I don’t expect that to change. The latter, though, has improved a little, but he still carries that nonchalant attitude on his shoulders nowadays. It’s becoming more apparent that he’s turning into a liability, and that could be solely put down to what happened a year ago in the World Cup. At the heart of defense, our two experienced players, Ferdinand and Vidić. We’ve done surprisingly well without either one commanding our young centre-backs. I hope the return of Vidić will tighten our defense more, and not cause leaks at the back.

Now onto the midfield: Carrick, Fletcher and Anderson. I maintain that we have to start with three midfielders to withstand the pressure. Carrick’s role, which doesn’t seem to get acknowledged and doesn’t get recognition, will be to sit in front of the defense. Coming on against Bolton—due to Cleverley picking up an injury—perfectly demonstrates his role. Cleverley is rumoured to be back, I’m not sure whether he’ll be put straight in to the squad considering the magnitude of the game, so for that reason, I’d have Fletcher’s ever-present energy. Industriousness is needed, and I feel he offers more energy off the ball. Preferably, the man to feed our attackers will be Anderson. He’s found it hard without Cleverley, but I wouldn’t go as far as saying he can’t play without him, which I think is disingenuous. This is Anderson's perfect time to shine, but if we're going to go by previous seasons, then we know that he's going to fail to dictate play.

A mouth-watering trio of Nani, Rooney and Young. Nani, our player of the month, has been in irresistible form. He's not shy of turning it on in the big games, he's a big game player. His unpredictability down the left should be more than enough, but he's up against arguably the best left back in the league. This is by no means an easy challenge for him. On the left wing: Ashley Young. He's leaped over every single barrier in his way, even the barriers that surrounded his transfer from Aston Villa. Currently, he has two goals and five assists. He'll be hoping to add more. Finally, our lone striker: Rooney. He's not played as a lone striker in the league since his outstanding display against West Ham, where he scored a hat trick. I'd rather he played in the hole mainly because that's his dominant position, but that would mean we would either have to drop one our central midfielders, which I don't want. A lot of expectation will be on Rooney to deliver.

Probably our toughest game so far in the league. If we are to win, we need to turn up this time and show our resilient side. For the past two games, it seems like a long time, we have been fragile in defense, we look more vulnerable than ever. If we're not too careful, then we could potentially see 3-1 once again. The return of Ferdinand and especially Vidić will strengthen our squad, but I question Vidić's mentality after missing a penalty for Serbia on Tuesday against Slovenia. This is probably the most anxious I've ever been with regards to this fixture.The odds slightly favours us, let's hope the odds become reality then.

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Follow the match thread here: http://www.tiki-taka...-15th-oct-1245/

Blackburn Rovers vs. Arsenal

Sat, 17 Sep 2011 05:20:08 +0000

Blackburn Rovers vs. Arsenal

-Saturday 17th September 2011 || Kick Off 12:45 || Ewood Park

_________________________________________________________________

Arsenal Team News:

After a hard fought point in Dortmund out next test is away to Blackburn Rovers. We are just starting to regain confidence in ourselves, and as Wenger said, we need to put a winning streak together to maintain it.

As far as we know, our long term abcences are Vermaelen, Daiby and Wilshere. Other casualties include Squillaci and Rosicky who shouldn't be out for too long. It seems Ramsey is fit again so expect him to start after not playing any part in Germany so should bring fresh legs to the team. Elsewhere we welcome back Gervinho and Song to the Premier League after both being suspended for the last 3 PL games. They are both great boosts to the team, Song with his immense defending against Dortmund and Gervinho who gives us another dimension when going forward with his directness. I expect a strong side especially as they can be rested for our carling cup game next week where our squad players are more than likely to play. Any way i expect, as always, Szczesny to start between the sticks and continuing with the same back 4 who started in Germany. With our midfield containg Song, Ramsey and new signing Arteta. I expect Arshavin to come in for Walcott who played most of the Champions League game where as a renewed Arshavin will be fresh, with Walcott coming off the bench later to test them tired Blackburn legs. Finishing off with Gervinho on the left and God upfront to lead the line. Van Persie has a great record against Blackburn, lets just hope he can maintain that.

Arsenal Predicted Line-up:

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-Blackburn Rovers Team News:

Blackburn haven’t had a great start to the season with currently being bottom of the league. They are in danger of making their worst start to a premier league campaign since 1996 when they picked up just 1 point in their opening 6 games. Although picking up a point against Fulham at Craven Cottege last week might lift the players slightly. They have quick a few players at the back with experience but the frontline seem more youthful but that can mean young legs so we will need Koscielny to help out his new centre back partner Mertesacker with any potential threat from pace.

From their last game Blackburn unfortunately picked up a few knocks, but the players only seem to be doubts so could still take part in tomorrow’s clash. Blackburn forward Junior Hoilett is available to face Arsenal after recovering from concussion. Midfielders Morten Gamst Pedersen and David Dunn and defender Ryan Nelsen are all injury doubts.-

Blackburn Rovers Predicted Line-up:

-Robinson

Olsson - Samba - Dann - Givet

Nzonzi - Dunn

Rochina - Formica - Hoilett

Goodwillie

Subs: Bunn, Salgado, Roberts, Petrovic, Yakubu, Vukcevic, Lowe

Prediction: Blackburn Rovers 0 - 2 Arsenal

Follow The Action HERE

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Benfica v Manchester United - Match Preview

Mon, 12 Sep 2011 22:14:15 +0000

Benfica v Man Utd
Estadio da Luz | 09/14/11 | 19:45 GMT | Group C

Well... it's just that time of year again isn't it? The start of the biggest and most popular club competition in the world is upon us again, and like year after year, it promises to be the most exciting one to date!

As the group stages kick off, old friends Benfica and Manchester United will lock horns in Portugal in their group stage opener as they try to battle it out for top spot in Group C.

Manchester United (W-W-W-W-W)
How they got here: Champions of England (Direct qualification)

Where do I start? Rooney's back-to-back Premier League hat-tricks? The best ever start to a Premier League season? The list of positives that surrounds the team is endless, and so are the possibilities. It's been an incredible start to the domestic season for the Red Devils, and everyone hopes that the same domestic success will be replicated on the European stage on Wednesday, against Portuguese giants, Benfica.

Sir Alex Ferguson has promised changes, and while there are expected to be new faces featuring against Benfica, most of them, quite surprisingly, will be regular first-team players from last season who have lost their places to Fergie's new set of young guns.

Having been put in a relatively easy Group C, with the likes of FC Basel and Otelu Galati completing the quartet along with Benfica, United are expected to cruise to the knockout stages without much worry. However, a tie against Benfica represents a tough challenge for United, who will be wary of the threat posed by the Portuguese outfit, having lost against them in 2005-06 before crashing out in the group stages of the Champions League. Proof of that was SAF's confirmation that the relatively young side that enjoyed a comfortable 5-0 demolition of Bolton Wanderers over the weekend would be replaced by more experienced heads for the Champions League tie. This will open the doors for the likes of Darren Fletcher, Ryan Giggs and Dimitar Berbatov, all of whom haven't seen any significant playing time this season.

Dimitar Berbatov, who hasn't made a single appearance this season to date, might get a rare start alongside either Javier Hernandez or Wayne Rooney, while Antonio Valencia and Park Ji-Sung might get a run out ahead of first-choice wingers Nani and Ashley Young, who could be rested for the upcoming Premier League clash against Chelsea. Central midfield is where United want solidity, and might therefore play 37-year old Ryan Giggs and Darren Fletcher, who is returning from injury. Rio Ferdinand is another who returned from a spell on the sidelines this week, and it is left to be seen if he is given his second game in four days, while Patrice Evra and Jonny Evans could miss the trip through injury.

United will be looking to extend their incredible 18-month unbeaten away record in the Champions League, and will be a tough nut to crack, having not conceded a single goal in their six games away from Old Trafford last time around. United have become a regular fixture in the latter stages of the competition, having made three of the last four Champions League finals, and having fumbled at the final hurdle the previous two times, the Red Devils will be looking to set things right this term.

Probable line-up: (4-4-2) De Gea; Smalling, Rio, Evans, Fabio; Giggs, Fletcher, Park, Young; Rooney, Berbatov

Prediction: A tight affair, but United will come out tops with a 2-0 away victory.

Benfica (W-W-W-W-D)
How they got here: Primeira Liga Runners-up (CL Playoffs)

Fast paced. Quick passing. Technique. Flair. These words describe the football Benfica has been able to produce during the start of the 11/12 season. This Champions League tie against Manchester United will be the perfect opportunity for Benfica to show they can compete with the best and entertain while doing it. Will this be the season Benfica fans are rewarded after many years of disappointment?

After bowing out of the Champions League last season in an embarrassing fashion, Benfica has a point to prove this season. Their 3-0 loss against Hapoel Tel-Aviv summed up Benfica’s horrible first half of the 10/11 season. Confidence was at an all-time low, but at that point the only way to go was up. The team bounced back with a long unbeaten run in the Portuguese league, and although it was too late to challenge for the league title, there were at least signs of improvement. Benfica went on in the UEFA Europa League to beat Stuttgart, Paris SG, and PSV Eindhoven before being knocked out by Portuguese league rivals SC Braga. Due to the initial high expectations, many fans were disappointed with how the season panned out. After recovering from the horrible start to the season however, the semi-final finish was realistically a decent accomplishment.

To prevent a repeat of the last season, Benfica wasted no time in the transfer market. However, while many European teams bolster their squads with big money signings, Benfica have found equal success with bargains and free transfers. Artur Moraes, a goalkeeper from SC Braga who arrived for free, provides the stability that former error-prone goalkeeper Roberto could not offer. Nolito, a left winger with a style similar to Pedro, also moved to Benfica for free, and gave fans more than they could wish for with 5 goals in his first 5 official games. Axel Witsel, a Belgian midfielder from Standard Liege, was bought for less than 8 million pounds, and is already becoming a key player in the team.

Like mentioned above, Benfica’s strengths lie in the attack. Any defense will find it difficult to deal with the quick passing and technical ability of Benfica’s offense. This does leave Benfica’s defense open at times, and the possibility of getting a clean sheet against a goal-scoring Manchester United side is almost impossible. Benfica will hope they can cancel out any goals Manchester United scores with goals of their own. With both teams playing some of the best football in the world, an entertaining affair with plenty of goals should be expected.

Probable line-up: (4-2-3-1) Artur Moraes; Maxi Pereira, Luisao, Garay, Emerson; Axel Witsel, Javi Garcia; Nico Gaitan, Aimar, Nolito; Cardozo

Prediction: 2-2. Benfica has home support and will find a way to score, but a top-form Manchester United will be too much for Benfica’s defense.

(Thanks to Nicow Gaitán for the Benfica write-up.)

Ajax - Olympique Lyon - Match Preview

Mon, 12 Sep 2011 15:43:35 +0000

Ajax versus Olympique Lyon

Coming Wednesday, Ajax' second Champions League season in a row will begin. After last year's title win, Frank de Boer's boys have cast high hopes for the group stage by being drawn in a somewhat favourable group with Real Madrid, Lyon and Dinamo Zagreb. In contrast, opponents Lyon have qualified for their umpteenth CL-run in a row and will be looking to top the group despite losing prized possessions Pjanic and Toulalan.

Days Like These

Ajax are currently leading in the Eredivisie, after Twente and PSV slipping up last weekend. Heracles was beaten 3-2 away, with Ajax previously proving to be victorious over Vitesse (4-1), drawing against VVV (2-2) and beating Heerenveen (5-1) and De Graafschap (1-4) with big numbers. Top goalscorers so far for the side from Amsterdam are new arrival Sigthorsson and Serbian international Sulejmani, both notching up 4 goals in first few games of the season.

Lyon have had a good start to their Ligue 1 campaign, standing 2nd on the rankings behind Montpellier with 11 points. Dijon (1-2) and Montpellier (2-1) both lost points to the Lions, whilst Brest and new-comer Ajaccio forced the top club to a split of points. In the first game of the season, Nice was beat at their own home with 1-3. Bafetimbi Gomis has found his scoring boots for Lyon, scoring 3 times in the past few Ligue 1 games, putting him in a shared 3rd place in the goalscoring standings.

Time Flies

Not to long ago, in the 2002/2003 season to be precise, Ajax and Lyon met in the group stages, with Ajax coming out on top. Zlatan Ibrahimovic scored two at home for the Dutch side, Sonny Anderson notching one back for the French. Back in France, Lyon lost the battle with 2-0 and Ajax advanced from the group stages whilst the French were eliminated.

Fun Fact

Current Lyon-winger and Brazil star Michel Bastos, linked with a move to Juventus over the summer, already faced Ajax earlier in his career. Playing for SBV Excelsior, on loan from Feyenoord, he lost both confrontations with the Amsterdam side in the 2002/2003 season.

Players To Watch

Bulgaria Vs England

Sun, 04 Sep 2011 06:01:48 +0000

Bulgaria Vs England

Venue - Vasil Levski National Stadium, Levski, Bulgaria

On Tuesday, England will renew their local rivalry with Wales at Wembley – though that is a game everyone expects them to romp to victory in. More pressing, however, and arguably a great deal more challenging, is Friday’s trip to Levski to face a resurgent Bulgaria whom while their form prior to Friday’s cash is disconcerting to say the least – winning just one of their last six, Lothar Matthaus’ charges are beginning to build up ahead of steam in qualifying having gone their last three games unbeaten, drawing with Montenegro and Switzerland but also beating Wales 1-0 over in Cardiff.

With England leading the way in Group G, albeit on goal difference – a vastly superior one at that, so long as there are no more slip-ups we should be home and hosed. But there are two more tricky obstacles Capello’s men must hurdle first, and Bulgaria in Levski in most certainly one of them – the other being an away encounter in Montenegro in October. But even so, it really should be a comfortable night’s work for our lavishly paid stars, most of whom are currently enjoying a rich vein of form.

There are no fewer than eleven players called up by Fabio Capello who play their football in Manchester with either City or United, who were both rampant at the weekend. Phil Jones and Chris Smalling have been extremely resolute at the back for Manchester United and at least one, possibly even both, should start in Levski what with Rio Ferdinand and Glen Johnson both missing through injury. Tom Cleverely has excelled in a central midfield role for United too, but unfortunately he is set to miss out on a starting berth as Gareth Barry, Scott Parker and Frank Lampard boss the business area of the pitch.

As for attack, Capello is blessed with an embarrassment of riches. Stewart Downing, Theo Walcott and Ashley Young are all in contention to form a three-pronged attack alongside Wayne Rooney, scorer of a hat-trick in United’s 8-2 demolition of Arsenal over the weekend. However Capello has grown rather fond of two players in particular who haven’t shone in the early stages of the new season but have been exemplary in England colours recently, and they are Adam Johnson and Darren Bent. The Italian will have a number of selection dilemmas then, which is positive.

England have only lost one of their previous 15 qualifying matches, a 1-0 reverse away to Ukraine in their final World Cup 2010 qualifier some two years ago. Perhaps that was where it all went wrong, ending what was previously a promising qualifying campaign with a real whimper in Dnipro. So can Fabio Capello inspire The Three Lions to an authoritative finish second time around? It could be a positive omen, not least a fantastic momentum builder, which is exactly what this match is, as there is certainly a few goals in Levski for England should they manage to break the home side’s resolve early on.

The hosts, though, will be well aware of England’s new-found tendency to draw important qualifiers – Capello’s team having drawn two of their last three including a 2-2 draw at home to Switzerland back in June – and we can safely presume that Bulgaria won’t open themselves up on Friday either. So it’s down to England to use some ingenuity if they wish to tear open a home defence that has conceded just one goal in its previous three Euro 2012 qualifiers.

Prediction - Bulgaria 0-2 England

LA ROJA UNITED

Thu, 01 Sep 2011 17:37:43 +0000

This Friday, September 2nd, the Spanish National team will face Alexis Sanchez and his Chilean National team... and each other. The nations will play an international friendly in the Stade de Genève just 2 weeks after many of the Spanish Nationals were facing each other in the Spanish Super Cup.

It is a special time when the Spanish National team gets together now a days. People are happy, expectations are high, and a sense of accomplishment finally runs through our Spaniard veins when we see our team play against the next evil villain trying to claim our continental, and intercontinental crowns. It is more than a fury, it is a thing of beauty to watch our boys play alongside each other. It's truly a masterpiece of sorts only rivaled by a few countries in recent memory.

The hegemony demonstrated by our men in red has been solidified by a system that has been in place now for many years, a system which this very website was named after, the “Tiki-Taka”. National identity has been established thanks to our recent winning nature and confident display of our best National attributes. The people inhabiting the Iberian Peninsula have always, by nature, been very passionate and quick to fight for their beliefs. People who would rather see their most beautiful cities destroyed by war rather than giving up (much unlike our French neighbors) or surrendering the fire within, the blood that colors our jersey, our soul.

Unfortunately, this very unifying atmosphere has been put under scrutiny due to the recent (and insane amount of) clasicos our two major exporters of talent to the national team have played against each other. The Capital city boys (Real Madrid) have tried time and time again to beat their archrivals from the coastal city of Barcelona, and although their skill and team cohesion have increased tremendously, it has still not been enough to defeat their arch rivals from the East. As anyone could imagine, this string of meetings between the “big two” has undoubtedly caused friction among the players from each side. Animosity has transcended into flurries of words and gestures exchanged between both outfits resulting in a drift between institutions, and now personal opinions.

Despite of what has transpired, or the root cause of it all, we must remember that these two teams provide the national team with 80% of its players. Should these players bring over any feelings of distrust for the opposing group to the national team it could only dispel the good feeling among all players suiting up to defend our newly acquired national treasure. It is not often that us Iberians are in agreement with each other. The Roman Empire itself found it easy to conquer an area where all tribes could not unite to fight the common foe. The only time in which we seem to finally find that common ground to march on is when our boys in red play the beautiful game.

These players should think about all of the kids and future generations of footballers that watch these games and the word exchanges that later ensue after the clashes between the "big two", and make sure they say the right things. It is easy to let feelings get the best of you during the game, but it is a much different story when you pronounce yourself after cooling off in the post-game shower. As a fan of Spain, and a proud Spaniard, it truly saddens me when I have to fear that my heroes will have a tough time fighting our enemies on the pitch in the tournaments that we are to play over the next year or two. We certainly need “PAX-HISPANA” instilled in their minds once they cross the doorway to the National Team HQ in Madrid.

Casillas, and Xavi recently made an effort to qualm the fire that ran rampant among the ranks of the NT, and hopefully Pique and Sergio Ramos will also feel the need to “chill” at this point. They need to do this not only because it hurts the team, but because it hurts us all who form part (even if it is a slight or minuscule portion) of a thing greater than all of us: The National (and even regional) pride of being the best in the world in the most important game played across the globe.

The first test of unity among our players is upon us. On Friday afternoon, when we match up against Chile in the Stade de Genève, will our players be ready to put La Roja first?

Whether Madrileño, Catalan, Andaluz, Gallego, Valenciano, Canario, Asturiano, Aragones, or what have you, we all support our boys when it comes down to it, I even saw Spanish flags in Canaletas that faithful July night of 2010. Let’s not fool each other, and let’s not fuel the fire. Let’s kick ass and take names all across the world… once that’s done, let’s go back to killing each other in the gladiator coliseums we call our La Liga Stadiums! Viva España, Viva la Roja, y a por ellos! Ole!

-Carlos E. de Guzman