(Soccer365.com) - With a win against Kansas City over the weekend, the D.C. United opened up a 5 point lead for first place in the East. Soccer 365's Lars Lifrak spoke with midfielder Brian Carroll about his team's quick start, playing the "least glamorous position" in soccer, and his favorite places to see in our nations capital.

365: It’s been a pretty decent start to the season. What have been the keys so far?
Brian Carroll: I think as a team we’re at least listening to each other and working hard for each other. I think in this league that goes a long way. Each week we are just working hard and the coaches are getting us prepared for each opponent. We’re just going out and executing our game plan as closely as possible and that’s getting results for us so far.

365: You’ve seen a lot of different teammates in the midfield with you already this season. Is that hard continuity wise?
BC: It’s a lot different communication wise, but everyone has the same goal in mind. Everyone wants to do as well as they can so they can be on the field the next week. Effort is always there, it’s just a matter of getting used to playing with one another. It’s a little different but guys just step in and do well and you just adjust as quickly as possible.

365: Some questions about you personally. You’ve made a clear progression every season. Are you happy with where things are for you in your career right now?
BC: I didn’t know exactly what to expect my first season. I thought I’d be given a chance at some point, unfortunately that didn’t happen. But I have to be happy with what has happened since that first year and I’m pretty happy with where I am right now. Although I always want to get better and help my team get better so whatever I have to do to get that done is what I’m going to do on the field in practice to prepare myself for the weekend games.

365: Has the way the season ended last year been a motivator?
BC: You never want to end a season unless you are the MLS champs, but to lose that way was certainly disappointing. I think it does spark a little bit of extra fire in every one of us to go out and perform better throughout the season.

365: How do things change with Ben Olsen away at the World Cup?

For the complete Soccer365 Interview with Brian Carroll Click Here

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(Goal.com) - Atletico Madrid have completed the club record €23 million (£15 million) signing of young Independiente playmaker Sergio Aguero.

The 17-year-old had been linked with a host of Europe’s top clubs including Bayern Munich and Liverpool, and the move signals Atletico’s intent to build a squad capable of challenging domestically and in Europe.

Along with Barcelona’s Lionel Messi he is considered the brightest prospect in Argentinian football.

"For Atletico Madrid it is the most important signing of a 17-year-old in our history," said Atletico director general Miguel Angel Gil.

"I have no doubts that Aguero will become a major star in Europe."

Aguero netted 23 goals in 54 appearances for Independiente and Atletico have handed him a six-year contract.

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(Soccer365.com) - Brazil coach Carlos Alberto Parreira reacted to an 8-0 friendly win over FC Lucerne with admissions that his defending champions have not yet reached World Cup form.

"We still need to improve," he told reporters. "Today was only our eighth day of preparation – it's a short period of time to expect perfection."

"It was another step toward our main goal, which is to be ready for the beginning of World Cup."

Parreira did have to make a squad change on Wednesday, replacing injured midfielder Edmilson with São Paulo man Mineiro.

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(Goal.com) - England coach Sven-Goran Eriksson has insisted that right-back Gary Neville will be fit enough to start Saturday's final World Cup warm-up match against Jamaica.

The Manchester United defender had to withdraw from last night's 3-1 win against Hungary with a hamstring strain, but the injury wasn't serious.

Eriksson explained that Neville, who missed the last World Cup through injury, was only taken off as a precaution.

He said: "It's important we don't take any risks with Gary Neville because we need him and we need him very much."

Neville, who is the only proper right-back in the squad, will make his 80th appearance for England if he features against Jamaica.

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(Soccer365.com) - According to Real Madrid’s FIFA emissary, the club are posied to go Galactico shopping if Serie A power Juventus are relegated due to their role in the recent wiretap scandal.

Ernesto Bronzetti told Guerin Sportivo that the Merengues would, at the very least, chase after Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Gianluca Zambrotta.

"Zambrotta is one of the best wingers around and should he become available in the market, then Real Madrid will do everything possible to sign him," he revealed. "Ibrahimovic is a player that Real have liked for a long time."

"We will be following the Juventus situation very closely, as many of their stars said they would leave should the club be relegated."

Bronzetti also disclosed that they could turn to JUve manager Fabio Capello – or even a certain departing England coach.

"Fabio Capello would also be very welcome here at Madrid," he stated. "We have a very good list with some big names on it, including the experienced Sven Goran Eriksson."

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(Goal.com) - Dick Advocaat is a busy man as he oversees South Korea's assault on the 2006 World Cup but Goal.com caught up with him just before the Taeguk Warriors left their homeland for Scotland and a training camp in Glasgow. The Dutchman took over the reins in October 2005 and it is unlikely that he will continue in his post after the World Cup ends.

Will you miss Korea?

Yes – definitely.

What will you miss?

The kindness of the people. The discipline of the people, friendly people. I think we have all enjoyed it from the moment we arrived until now. We have had a great time.

How about Korean food -do you have a favourite?

I have to be honest. We didn’t eat a lot of Korean food. I have had soup – noodle soup. That was all. Most of the time we are eating Western food.

How about kimchi?

No – (laughs). I saw it. The players really, really like it but not me – I passed on it.

It’s supposed to be one of the healthiest foods in the world

Yes. I definitely think that part of our success is because of kimchi (laughs)

Before you came to Korea, what was your impression of the players and football?

First of all, to get the chance to become involved in the World Cup is great. By far the biggest advantage was Pim Verbeek (assistant coach in 2002 and 2006). He still knew most of the squad because he was still talking to you and other people in this country so he knew what was going on with the players.

We knew that the confidence was quite low. We always said to each other ‘we still have six, seven or eight players from 2002,’ we knew that there were some talented players and then we still have the experiencne that I have and that Pim has - Afshin Ghotbi (also an assistant coach in 2002 and 2006) came later - first it was Pim and myself and we wanted Afshin to join us) but the first meeting was with Sam Ka and Pim and myself.

We knew what we were doing and had to do and we knew that Afshin would come too, we have an excellent staff. So far that’s the best choice I’ve ever made – except Afshin (laughs and Afshin, who is sat nearby, laughs also)

What was your first impression when you arrived?

The good thing was the players knew I was coming and already knew a lot about me – the respect was already there and also there for Pim, Afshin and Hong Myung- bo. We saw that they looked up to us. The training was unbelievable – the first couple of days was unbelievable, the players worked so hard.

We started telling them about that if we can be together then we can have a strong team. We did lots of talking about getting results and becoming united, not only with the squad but with the press and with the fans.

Before you came here, you didn’t know too much about the players –

Nothing

…so how did you go about putting your first squad together?

Well. We had to talk to a lot of people from the KFA committee, committee members and we had been watching all the games before we arrived, not one time but several times. That was an indication, the K-League was an indication and previous lists were an indication. I talked to Bo, Afshin and Pim and that brought us to the team.

What do you think of the K-League?

I am not so impressed with the K-League.

What are the problems and how can they be improved?

I think there is a lot that can be improved. The majority of people here are crazy about football. That is the basis, the people love football. In that way, the future for Korean football can be very, very nice. If you use the right tools to develop that then I think Korea can be a force in world football. I know that you have opinions on how to improve things and the way it is being dealt with now, in my opinion, is not good but I don’t think now is the right time for me to express my ideas.

When you chose the World Cup squad, how did you tell the players that they were selected?

We didn’t. We sent them a letter.

How about those on stand-by?

We sent them a letter as well. They still belong to the 28 best players of Korea. Unfortunately, at this moment, they’re not invited but anything can still happen.

Some of the European-based players like Ahn Jung-hwan, Cha Du-ri and Seol Ki-hyeon didn’t have very good seasons so why were Ahn and Seol selected but not Cha?

First of all with Ahn, I saw all the games in 2002, I’ve seen him often on tape. I think that he was a very important member of the 2002 team and the goals he scored. He played for us and I thought that he had the quality to do something for us with the other strikers.

Cha was a little bit of a problem. He was playing right full-back for his club and I think we already have better right full-backs than Cha Du-ri. As a winger, well, we have four wingers who can play on the left and the right side, good young talented players. We wanted to keep the players that are playing every week and who also joined us on tour.

How much do you know about Togo?

In principle, we know everything. Togo will start playing with their line-up sometime over the next 14 days. In the African Nations Cup they played their strongest line-up, we have all the tapes, the committee members went and my own scouts went.

So when we start against Togo, we know every system, all the individuals, they are no surprise for us. On the other hand – it’s probably a case of vice-versa.

On paper, Togo is the easiest game…

That’s where we make the biggest mistake we can do because I think that it’s the most difficult game.

Why?

Because of the expectations of Togo is not that high. But it is the first game for us and the first game for Togo. They’ll be full of confidence that if they win that they can go on and do better. It’s better to play them in the last game.

Will your message to the players be different before the Togo game compared to France and Switzerland?

Yes –confidence is good but overconfidence is not good. We will tell them that this is a very important game and we have played against Senegal, Ghana and Angola and you can compare with them and there are no easy games.

For France and Switzerland it will be the opposite situation… For a coach, France and Switzerland is easier because they know that they are better.

How confirmed is the starting line-up?

It’s not decided yet. If somebody impresses in the next week or two, then they can break into the team? You have eight or nine players that you know are going to play. In my mind there are two players who have to fight for their position.

And they are…

(Laughs)

Regarding the goalkeepers, the two understudies Kim Young-kwang and Kim Yong-dae have never played for you.

No because I still think there’s a difference between Lee Woon-jae and the other goalkeepers. But with the way the keepers are doing now, they are growing and the gap is becoming closer and closer.

Wouldn’t it have been a good idea to play one of the understudies before in a big game situation?

It’s always a possibility.

There have been reports that Lee Woon-jae isn’t completely fit.

Really? The media always tries to find something but he’s completely fit and happy. He’s a real captain.

Is it a good idea to have a goalkeeping captain? Is the Korean team too quiet to have somebody else?

You can’t change a player’s character. If he’s not speaking and you say ‘you have to speak’, it doesn’t work. If you speak on the pitch, it comes from your heart and soul, that’s who you are. Age or colour doesn’t matter, you have to help each other, coach each other, talk to each other.

It was said that in the past that some of the players felt uncomfortable talking to older players on and off the pitch.

We were so surprised with the way they get on with each other. Even at the table at meal-times, they are laughing, in Hiddink’s time, they were not laughing. Now they are enjoying themselves, in that way, you can see what has changed in four years time through the influence of foreigners and foreign coaches etc.

Why did you choose Scotland for a training camp?

It’s a beautiful country, there’s a real football atmosphere. We are training on one of the best training centers in Europe.

You helped to design it…

Of course, I hope all my pictures are still hanging in the corridor but I don’t think so! (laughs) We can work properly, condition our players, the pitches are excellent. I could also go to Holland but I thought it was a better idea to go to Scotland.

And you play Ghana in Edinburgh. Who chooses the friendly opponents?

It depends on what we can get. Not everybody is prepared to come to Korea. I always like to play against teams that are participating in the World Cup because like us, they are in the middle of preparation time. Other teams can play hard and they don’t care at all about what happens.

It’s good to play against other World Cup teams, they are looking for the same things and it’s much easier. We meet the Korean Football Association (KFA) and talk about opponents. The KFA have been unbelievable, the co-operation between the staff and the KFA has been really, really excellent.

Your predeccesor Jo Bonfrere complained about that…

Not us. As head coach I am very happy with the cooperation.

Recently the Togo Coach said certain things about the Korean team. How do you feel when you hear those kinds of remarks?

He also made some strange remarks about the German team as well. All well-respected coaches would never say the things that he is saying. He is probably in the opposite situation to us as we discussed earlier. You must always respect your opponent. It says more about the coach…

What’s the main difference between coaching the Korean national team and the Netherlands national team?

I talk to the Korean players through a translator. I can talk to Dutch players direct so that’s easier. Dutch players like to express their opinion. Korean players will follow what you say, they are very obedient and I like that.

If you become a club coach again, would you like to sign Korean players?

I can now understand why Mr. Hiddink took Korean players with him. He enjoyed working with them

Why? What is good about Korean players?

They never give up. They go until the end. The coach of Senegal (Korea had drawn 1-1 with Senegal two days earlier) said the right words about the game. He said there are some excellent parts to Korea – it was a very strong Korean side and a very poor Korean side. I can understand why he said that.

That’s true but I let it go that way. Normally, I would change something and then you see a better balanced team. I didn’t do it because that was not our purpose. He was right, there were some excellent moments, we are very quick with the counter-attacks, we like to pressurise and have a lot of energy and if we use it the right way then we have a team that fights so hard and is difficult to break down.

How about weak points?

(Long pause)… Everybody has their weak points, us too but that’s for the opponents to find out.

You have been labelled a defensive coach by some parts of the media, maybe because of your famous substitution in Euro 2004 during the Czech-Holland game –how do you feel about that?

If you see what I’ve done in 58 games with the Netherlands national team, I have an excellent record, winning wise and scoring wise, also with PSV we scored a lot of goals.

With the Czech game, we were well-organised defensively and caused them many problems with our counter attacks, we were the better team. I still think it was the right decision but the problem was that we lost after leading 2-0.

That changed the atmosphere totally, the atmosphere was already rotten before …

With the team?

Not with the team or with the squad but the relationship between the media and myself. It had been rotten for six months or a year before.

How would you like to be remembered in Korea?

I don’t care, as long as people see me as honest and straight. Not many can say that in the Dutch press but I can say that I am honest and straight.

If you had your time again, would you do anything differently?

I would take different staff (by this time Pim Verbeek is here and they all laugh). No, it has been a great honour. Maybe we will continue, you never know in life.

That’s possible?

I think that’s still possible, it’s still open. From the moment we arrived we have had a great time – with each other, the players, the co-operation with the KFA. I have no regrets.

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(Soccer365.com) - Germany boss Jürgen Klinsmann has explained that his frequent trips home to California were actually a positive influence on his pre-World Cup work.

The coach took plenty of heat for his globe hopping ways in the domestic press – part of the reason he kept up the habit until recently.

"I get distance and look at things outside the box and it helps," insisted the Golden Bomber. "Living in the U.S. gives you a different perspective."

"I learned from (U.S. coach) Bruce Arena and from different coaches in different sports in the U.S.," revealed Klinsmann. "It widens your picture, definitely."

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(Soccer365.com) - Mexico's coach downplays the importance of the international friendlies as the team prepares for their June 11th match versus Iran.

After losing 1-0 to France and getting ready to face Holland Thursday, Mexican national team coach, Ricardo La Volpe, said the only thing that matters is the World Cup 2006 debut, not so much the team’s performance in the friendlies.

For the Argentinean coach, the important date will be June 11th, when El Tri will face Iran in their World Cup ’06 kick off.

La Volpe, who had not spoken to the media since arriving in Europe, made it clear that “we can’t forget that what really matters to us is the first match in the World Cup.”

After the team ended Sunday’s training session in the Netherlands, the coach asserted that after three years at the Mexican team’s helm, he knows what their objective and how his players will respond on the field.

“We know what this team is about, as we’ve worked together for three years and I know I have 23 players who will leave it all on the pitch.”

La Volpe added that they are only concerned for their own actions, not what the other teams are doing. “To be a great team we can only worry about what we are doing.”

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(Soccer365.com) - Brian McBride says the goal for the Red, White and Blue is to stay fit.

After coming through three games in six days with a couple of setbacks, U.S. striker Brian McBride stated that World Cup form isn’t their first concern at this time.

The Fulham man believes they can get a more solid idea of where they stand performance-wise after arriving in Hamburg later this week.

"It's hard to judge where we're at," said McBride after firing the only goal of the game against Latvia on Sunday night.

"The most important thing is getting through them and getting fitness."

Defender Cory Gibbs picked up an injury against Morocco in the first match of the Send-Off Series that has ruled him out for World Cup, and captain Claudio Reyna picked up a minor knock in the same game.

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(Soccer365.com) - Ace Tomáš Rosický limped out of a pre-World Cup friendly on the weekend adding to the Czech team's injury woes.

Czech Republic coach Karel Brueckner watched playmaker Tomáš Rosický limp out of a pre-World Cup friendly on the weekend, making a busy sick bay even more crowded.

The Arsenal summer signing will miss Tuesday’s match against Costa Rica, giving the boss a bigger headache.

"We'd like to play at least one half with our first choice line-up, but we won't do it if it involves any risks," sighed Brueckner.

The trainer is also waiting on returns from attack trio Jan Koller, Vratislav Lovkenc and Vladimir Smicer.

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(Soccer365.com) - But the 35-year-old, who previously played for Celtic and AIK Solna, has warned Lars Lagerback and his team they will need a hefty dose of good fortune to repeat the success of 1994.

But the 35-year-old, who previously played for Celtic and AIK Solna, has warned Lars Lagerback and his team they will need a hefty dose of good fortune to repeat the success of 1994.

The Swedes reached the semi-finals of the tournament in the USA 12 years ago as the surprise package before being beaten by eventual winners Brazil.

Sweden will line up against England, Paraguay and Trinidad and Tobago in Group B of the finals.

And Mjallby believes organisation and a solid defence can help his country in Germany.

He said: "I think we will go through from the group stage. But, after that, it is hard to say.

"You need your key players to be in form and have a good organisation.

"We talk about our three 'Super Swedes' - Freddie Ljungberg, Henrik Larsson and Zlatan Ibrahimovic - but we have to remember Sweden has built success on a good organisation and a strong defence.

"Other teams such as Brazil and England have world-class players all over the pitch so we need a very strong organisation and defence.

"We could reach the quarter-finals but, after that, it will be down to luck as well."

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(Soccer365.com) - The Juventus utility man sustained a muscle injury in his left thigh during training last weekend and will need at least two weeks to recover.

The Juventus utility man sustained a muscle injury in his left thigh during training last weekend and will need at least two weeks to recover.

"If everything goes well, he will come back in 15 to 20 days," said Italy team doctor Enrico Castellacci.

"In a week's time, he will have another test done but we are calm and optimistic."

Zambrotta, who is a regular member of Marcello Lippi's squad, could recover in time to face USA on June 17.

Although doctors have ruled out a ligament damage, Zambrotta will need to have a scan and is unlikely to travel to Geneva with the rest of his team-mates for the warm-up friendlies against fellow World Cup qualifiers Switzerland on Wednesday and Ukraine on Friday.

There was more bad news for Lippi on Tuesday with Roma midfielder Simone Perrotta unable to finish training having picked up a knock on his right knee.

The clash in Geneva will allow Lippi to test the fitness of some of his players.

However, Lippi is set to rest Roma captain Francesco Totti, who recently recovered from a serious leg injury.

"Totti is improving and he is undergoing specific training to gain more strength in his injured leg," said Lippi.

AC Milan's Andrea Pirlo is favourite to replace Totti at the heart of Italy's midfield with Roma's Daniele De Rossi set to be relegated to the bench.

Against Switzerland, Italy will play with a 4-3-3 formation, with Alberto Gilardino, Luca Toni and Alessandro Del Piero set to form the Azzurri's attacking line.

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(Soccer365.com) - Leo Messi has not yet healed from a thigh injury and will not be rushed into action.

The 18-year-old Barcelona forward is still recovering from a thigh injury and will not be rushed back into action.

Argentina coach Jose Nestor Pekerman said: "He is better every day. But we don't want to make mistakes. We'll go slowly, even though he is impatient."

Pekerman's assistant Hugo Tocalli added: "We have to wait a bit more but he will get to the opener in condition to play."

Argentina are happier with the fitness of Manchester United defender Gabriel Heinze, who missed eight months of the Premiership season due to a ligament injury.

Tocalli said: "Heinze is very well."

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Posted by soccer365 at 09:42 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)

(Soccer365.com) - Cahill injured the joint in April and his spot in the Germany '06 squad was in doubt.

The Everton star injured the joint in April and his participation in the World Cup was thought to be in doubt.

But he looked in good shape as he took part in a practice match at the Aussies' base in Mierlo, Holland.

"I'm not going to count my chickens, and it is still a race against time to get fully fit, but it is good to be back,'' Cahill told the Sydney Morning Herald.

"It has been five and a half weeks post-injury, so I'm feeling good.

"There's still a chance that it might recur - so I have to take it easy and see how it goes. I need a week to really get a feel for how it is going.''

Australia play Holland on Sunday in a warm-up game and open their World Cup account against Japan on June 12.

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(Soccer365.com) - German strike ace Michael Ballack could miss the warm-up game with Colombia on Friday.

Ballack, who joined Chelsea on a free transfer from Bayern Munich, could also miss the warm-up game with Colombia on Friday.

Klinsmann said on Ballack: "We won't risk anything. He has been through running exercises and we will see how it goes."

Bayer Leverkusen midfielder Bernd Schneider believes Saturday's 7-0 thrashing of lowly Luxembourg proved Germany can perform without their instrumental playmaker.

"One could see we can play without him but of course we are much stronger when he is on board," said Schneider.

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(Soccer365.com) - The rising Dutch star was struck by a ball which forced him to leave practice.

The 23-year-old Hamburg midfielder was forced to leave training on Monday after being struck by a ball.

He already sat out Holland's weekend friendly with Cameron as a precaution after undergoing an operation to remove a screw from the joint.

"The new injury is on a different spot," said head coach Marco van Basten.

"It is clear though that the joint is not comfortable yet. It is good he stopped the training immediately. We must now wait and see how serious it exactly is."

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Posted by soccer365 at 09:34 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

(Soccer365.com) - Dujkovic's men outclassed their opponents, although the scoreline was flattering, with two of the goals deflected efforts by captain Stephen Appiah.

Dujkovic's men outclassed their opponents, although the scoreline was flattering, with two of the goals deflected efforts by captain Stephen Appiah.

Sulley Muntari gave them a sixth-minute lead before Jamaica's Damion Stewart deflected Appiah's volley into his own net in the 19th minute.

Jason Euell pulled one back in the 57th minute, but Ghana wrapped up the win midway through the second half with two goals in the space of three minutes through Appiah - this time deflected in by Claude Davis - and Matthew Amoah.

The win means Ghana - whose group rivals in Germany are Italy, Czech Republic and USA - are unbeaten from their two warm-ups so far having drawn 1-1 with Turkey on Friday, and Dujkovic believes the results have done wonders for their team spirit.

"Every match is important, but especially with the World Cup so close," said the Serbian. "We need to sharpen up but, of course, it was a very good result for the future - the upcoming friendly (against South Korea next Sunday) and the competition.

"We are getting better every day and, come the competition, we will be ready to beat anybody.

"I liked how we played, especially the way each of the players combined, it was excellent.

"The commitment and the positive energy was there. This is important for the group of players and, as a team, they are much better.

"This is a good measure for the World Cup and any match can give you something new. We will now make an analysis and talk between the technical staff and the players about what to do to get the best out of us."

Jamaica failed to qualify for Germany so this game - and their friendly with England next Saturday - will form part of coach Wendell Downswell's rebuilding process for the next World Cup qualifiers.

"The game was important for our preparations for 2010," said Downswell.

"It was a wonderful exercise for us and a tremendous experience to play against the Ghana team.

"Unfortunately we conceded four goals, two off defenders, but overall there were some positives.

"In the second half I think we came out quite positively, it was just unfortunate to concede a goal against the run of play and quickly after that we conceded another.

"We needed to keep the ball more up front. We did that better in the second half. We created two or three half-chances but unfortunately we didn't convert them."

The 4pm kick-off was delayed by 30 minutes as the Jamaican party did not arrive until 3.30pm due to traffic.

"That could have been a contributing factor to our first-half performance, we were a bit lethargic," admitted Downswell.

"I think we showed too much respect to the Ghanaians, especially in the first half.

"We weren't closing down, we gave them too much room and our defence was about 15 yards too deep. But in the second half you could see a significant improvement in terms of our approach, we were much more positive."

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(Soccer365.com) - Owen underwent a precautionary scan after reporting he had a "tight thigh" in training on Monday.

Owen underwent a precautionary scan after reporting he had a "tight thigh" in training on Monday.

The results were all-clear and England's senior striker should be available to lead the line against the Hungarians at Old Trafford.

Owen's fitness is a huge relief for an England team still uncertain about Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney's participation in the World Cup finals.

Rooney's next scan on his broken foot has been brought forward seven days to June 7 at Eriksson's request.

The Swede wants an update on how the injury is mending before June 9 - the final deadline for him to replace injured players in his squad.

Eriksson remains upbeat about Rooney's chances of playing some part in the World Cup finals but an injury to Owen would be a devastating blow.

The Newcastle striker has only played 90 minutes of football since breaking his foot on New Year's Eve.

He came through 60 minutes of a B international against Belarus last week and was hoping to play a full 90 game against Hungary tomorrow or Jamaica on Saturday.

Eriksson said the team which starts at Old Trafford tomorrow is likely to be the one which starts against Paraguay in the World Cup opener on June 10.

The England boss may play Owen as a lone striker, backed by five midfielders, which would represent a U-turn on his World Cup plans.

Eriksson said: "When we start tomorrow it will be the team we think might start against Paraguay.

"We could start with Crouch and Owen and we could start in another way as well."

This is a drastic change from May 8, when Eriksson said: "If I had to do it today I think I would start with Peter Crouch and Michael Owen if he is match-fit.

"That would be the natural choice and playing the four best midfielders."

The last time Eriksson tampered with his 4-4-2 system was in the World Cup qualifier against Northern Ireland in September.

England lost 1-0 in Belfast, playing David Beckham as a deep-lying central-midfielder, alongside Steven Gerrard and Frank Lampard. Shaun Wright-Phillips and Rooney played either side of Owen in attack.

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Posted by soccer365 at 09:22 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

(Soccer365.com) - Ukraine thrashed fellow World Cup qualifiers Costa Rica 4-0 in a friendly in Kiev on Sunday night.

Ukraine thrashed fellow World Cup qualifiers Costa Rica 4-0 in a friendly in Kiev on Sunday night.

Goals before the interval from Serhiy Nazarenko, Andriy Vorobey and Maxym Kalinichenko killed the match and then Oleksiy Belyk added another after the break for the team coached by Oleh Blokhin.

Nazarenko opened the scoring after 26 minutes from the rebound after Costa Rica goalkeeper Wardy Alfaro had saved a penalty.

Vorobey doubled the lead after 35 minutes when he collected a pass from Vladyslav Vaschuk before lobbing Alfaro.

Kalinichenko headed the third five minutes before the break after Alfaro had only got a hand to Ruslan Rotan's shot.

Both coaches rotated their squads in the second half but the fourth goal came after 56 minutes when Belyk collected a pass from Oleh Gusev and scored.

Ecuador were beaten in their final warm-up game, 2-1 by FYR Macedonia.

Carlos Tenorio, who was later stretchered off with a leg injury, put the South Americans ahead but goals from Goran Maznov and Igor Mitreski, the latter from the penalty spot, gave Macedonia a surprise win.

Iran secured a morale-boosting draw against fellow qualifiers Croatia.

The visitors twice led through goals from Ali Karimi and Arash Borhani but Croatia earned a share of the spoils with a Dado Prso strike and a last-minute Marko Babic penalty.

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Posted by soccer365 at 09:15 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

(Soccer365.com) - Despite the 1-0 victory over a World Cup team the French coach is not satisfied.

France coach Raymond Domenech admitted his side will have to improve after the 1-0 win in a friendly against Mexico on Saturday night.

And he warned his players that he is expecting a better performance against Denmark on Wednesday in Lens.

Les Bleus conquered the CONCACAF power thanks to a Florent Malouda tally near halftime.

This game was Zinedine Zidane's last at the Stade de France and he also collected his 100th cap for Les Bleus.

However, the gifted midfielder - like the rest of the team - looked uninspired in a match which was wrapped up thanks to Florent Maoulida's 45th-minute strike.

"We knew what to expect in terms of physical level," said Domenech. "We knew that we would suffer in the second half because Mexico have played more matches than us.

"We suffered a lapse of form in the second half but we resisted and held on and did not let them fight back.

"That was the objective so I am happy with the performance."

France take on Denmark before travelling to Saint Etienne on June 7 to meet China, then start their World Cup campaign on June 13 against Switzerland in Stuttgart.

"I will expect much more from my players in our next clash," added Domenech. "We must evolve, improve, get better and better to be at the top of our game on June 13.

"Our next match will have to give us more indications about our game."

Domenech also insisted his squad are still in the preparation phase just two weeks before the competition begins.

"This match was there to judge the performances of my players," added the French boss. "But the truth will be on June 13.

"This match was a rehearsal and so will our next two matches against Denmark and China. be The first performance of the team will be on June 13.

"I am convinced we will all be ready to go as far as possible in the competition and for us that means the final."

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(Soccer365.com) - T & T coach admits his side still have work to do after losing 2-1 to Wales.

Leo Beenhakker admits Trinidad and Tobago have 'still got a lot of work to do' before they are up to facing England in the World Cup finals.

The Dutchman, in charge of the smallest nation ever to qualify for the finals, saw his team embarrassed by a very young Wales team, who won Saturday's friendly 2-1 thanks to a Robert Earnshaw double.

Stern John had put the Caribbean islanders ahead, but Wales battled hard to produce a victory that will have ensured England do not have any sleepless nights ahead of their match with Trinidad and Tobago in Nuremberg on June 15.

Coach Beenhakker said: "Obviously we hate losing, but I have great respect for Wales and John Toshack and they played well. But I do not think the result was a fair reflection on the game.

"We had most of the possession and chances. But there is a big difference between preparation games and competitive ones. We are at a certain stage of our planning and are two weeks away from our objective.

"That has to be playing Sweden in our first match, I cannot think of England now although it is all I hear about, England, England, all the time."

He added: "We must stay focused on Sweden, but we realise that we have a lot of work to do. But at the moment I can live with a defeat by Wales.

"England comes later, and I know we will be better by then. Whether we will be good enough to beat Sweden, I do not know, but we will do a much better job than we did tonight.

"There were periods of the game in which we were very good, but we can manage better.

"We are a small nation and we are about to be facing big players, but we do not think of going to Germany and losing, we have got ambition and courage and we do not want to be coming home and watching the rest of the tournament on TV, just like my old friend John Toshack and Wales will be doing."

Toshack witnessed a battling display by a team that used half a dozen under-20s, including 16-year-old Gareth Bale, who became Wales' youngest ever full international.

Toshack said: "He can be very pleased with his performance, and his part in the winning goal.

"We have been very impressed with him while he has been with us, there is a lot more to come from him but that was certainly a great start.

"We have now drawn with Paraguay, beaten Trinidad and Tobago and only lost 1-0 to England in recent results.

"So I suppose I can say we have qualified from the group for the next stage of the World Cup finals. We can certainly dream."

As for Wales' young players, Toshack said: "We had Bale who is 16, Joe Ledley 19 and Lewin Nyatanga 17 playing down the left.

"And they did not look out of place, those three have been a real bonus for us."

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Posted by soccer365 at 09:09 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

(Soccer365.com) - England national team striker Wayne Rooney will travel to Germany with his mates in hopes of playing in Germany.

Manager Sven-Goran Eriksson wants to analyse Rooney's fitness and recovery rates ahead of the scan in Manchester.

An FA statement said: "England head coach Sven-Goran Eriksson has confirmed today Wayne Rooney will fly out to Germany with the rest of the England squad on Monday.

"Wayne will then return to England on Wednesday for a scan on his foot in Manchester.

"Wayne will be accompanied by the England team doctor Leif Sward who will then analyse the scan with Manchester United."

Eriksson has until Friday June 9 to decide whether or not Rooney will be part of the England squad for the World Cup finals.

His decision is complicated by fitness doubts surrounding his other key striker Michael Owen, who is just back from a broken foot and needed a precautionary scan yesterday on a tight thigh muscle.

England play Hungary in a friendly at Old Trafford on Tuesday, their penultimate warm-up game before the World Cup finals.

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(Soccer365.com) - The US national team heads to Germany with a good with a winning spirit after the 1-0 over Latvia in East Hartford.

In their final match of the three-game Send-Off Series before the 2006 FIFA World Cup, the U.S. Men’s National Team defeated Latvia 1-0 in front of 24,636 fans at Rentschler Field in East Hartford, Conn. Brian McBride led the way for the U.S., scoring his 30th international goal for the U.S. late in the first half.

The celebration in East Hartford culminated 20 days of preparation for the U.S., which began for the team back on May 10 in Cary, N.C., and continued through games this week in Nashville, Tenn., and Cleveland, Ohio. The U.S. players now have three days off and will reconvene in New York City on Thursday (June 1) for their trip to Germany on a Lufthansa Business Jet aircraft.

“I’m happy with the win,” said U.S. Manager Bruce Arena. “I think this week our three opponents played us quite well. I think we were pushed to our limits, physically, with the awkward calendar. The games made it real tough on our team. And, today, to have two players almost play 90 minutes and having them play it on Friday is pretty remarkable.” (Post-Game Quote Sheet)

The U.S. goal came in the 43rd minute off the head of McBride, finishing a perfect cross from the right flank from defender Steve Cherundolo. The play began with Landon Donovan working the ball into the middle of the field and finding Cherundolo open on the wing.

McBride’s 30th career goal puts him just four behind Eric Wynalda for the all-time U.S. lead and came after an early knock to the forehead that saw a large golf-ball sized welt quickly develop. The goal also came just five minutes after McBride was denied by Latvian goalkeeper Aleksandrs Kolinko on a bouncing header in the area.
Kolinko made several good saves during the game, including a 29th minute parry of a Donovan header that looked to be going into the upper right corner of the goal. In the 72nd minute, Johnson directed a glancing header on a pass from DaMarcus Beasley toward goal that Kolinko did well to grab and control with a two-handed save.

"I was pretty thankful it didn't cut open," said McBride about the welt after the game. "Right now we are going to enjoy this game and go home and see our families and enjoy our time off. The things we need to build on (in Germany) are our overall movement of the ball, and when we are tired we need to keep our shape a little bit and pass the ball a little bit better. But we've been getting some great crosses into the box and that has made all the difference (in the last two games)."

Defensively, the U.S. backline of Steve Cherundolo, Eddie Pope, Jimmy Conrad and Eddie Lewis each played the full 90 minutes in front of goalkeeper Kasey Keller, who earned his 45th shutout in his 93rd international appearance.

Overall, the game was a physical one for the Latvians, who held back most of the game and tried to stymie the U.S. attack with 16 first-half fouls and 24 total for the game.

“The friendlies are past us and next time we’re together as a team is in Germany where our complete focus will be on preparing our team for the Czech Republic,” added Arena. “We’ll be ready for it. I think we’re moving along according to schedule. All the talking is done. We’ll have to step on the field June 12 and show what we’re about.”

The USA’s World Cup journey in Group E begins against the Czech Republic on June 12 in Gelsenkirchen. The team then meets Italy on June 17 in Kaiserslautern before finishing off group play against Ghana on June 22 in Nuremberg. The U.S. will be based in the northern port city of Hamburg throughout the tournament.

The United States took the field in Sunday's game in a red, limited edition "Don't Tread on Me" Nike jersey. The kits will only be worn one time and will be auctioned off for charity at ussoccer.com. Fans can also purchase the special jersey, which features a classic diagonal sash across the chest and a "Don't Tread" snake logo on the sleeve, at ussoccerstore.com.

Sierra Mist Man of the Match: Brian McBride

Scoring Summary:
USA – Brian McBride (Steve Cherundolo) 43rd minute.

USA: 18-Kasey Keller; 6-Steve Cherundolo, 23-Eddie Pope, 13-Jimmy Conrad, 7-Eddie Lewis; 4-Pablo Mastroeni (24-Michael Bradley, 83), 17-DaMarcus Beasley, 5-John O’Brien (15-Bobby Convey, 66), 21-Landon Donovan (capt.); 20-Brian McBride, 9-Eddie Johnson (11-Brian Ching, 83)
Subs not used: 1-Tim Howard, 2- Chris Albright, 12-Gregg Berhalter, 14-Ben Olsen, 16-Josh Wolff, 19-Marcus Hahnemann, 22-Oguchi Onyewu
Head Coach: Bruce Arena

LVA: 1- Aleksandrs Kolinko; 4-Dzintars Zirnis, 14-Maris Smirnovs, 17-Oskars Klava, 6-Deniss Ivanovs; 3-Vitalijs Astafjevs, 5-Juris Laizans (13-Aleksejs Visnakovs, 70), 10-Andrejs Rubins (19-Gatis Kalninš, 83), 15-Genadijs Solonicins (8-Viktors Morozs, 46); 9-Maris Verpakovskis, 11-Andrejs Prohorenkovs (20-Girts Karlsons, 46)
Subs not used: 2-Arturs Zakreševskis, 7-Aleksandrs Isakovs, 12-Andrejs Piedels, 18-Kristaps Blanks
Head Coach: Juris Andrejevs

Misconduct Summary:

LVA – Solonicins (caution) 10th minute.
LVA – Prohorenkovs (caution) 29.
LVA – Laizans (caution) 57.

Referee: Steven Dipiero (CAN)
1st Asst.: Simon Fearn (CAN)
2nd Asst.: Neil Scofield (CAN)
Fourth Official: Alex Prus (USA)
Attendance: 24,636
Weather: 77 degrees, cloudy

courtesy of ussoccer.com

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Posted by soccer365 at 08:29 AM | Permalink | Comments (5)

(Soccer365.com) - Brazil are keeping their fingers crossed that star striker Ronaldo will be fully fit in time for the team's World Cup opener against Croatia on June 13.

Brazil are keeping their fingers crossed that star striker Ronaldo will be fully fit in time for the team's World Cup opener against Croatia on June 13.

The Real Madrid ace struggled in training on Thursday in Weggis, Switzerland, where Brazil are preparing.

"I'm having muscular pains but any sacrifice is worthy for the national team," he said.

Brazil boss Carlos Alberto Parreira said: "He is motivated and we're doing everything so the team will be at the top level after the third World Cup match."

Milan defender Cafu had injury problems this season and needed a knee operation in late February but he looks to be in good shape.

"I'm fully fit," he said. "I've managed to recover successfully."

Over 5,000 fans turned up at the Thermoplan stadium to watch the Brazil players go through their paces on Thursday.

Brazil's Ronaldinho, meanwhile, is hoping to build on yet another magnificent campaign which saw him capture a second straight Primera Liga title and a Champions League crown.

He says the atmosphere in the Brazil team is terrific.

"This moment is marvellous," he said.

"We're trying to profit from every second and it motivates me a lot to keep on working to be in form for a long time."

Brazil also face Australia and Japan in Group F.

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(Soccer365.com) - Wantaway Chelsea striker Hernan Crespo is desperate to show his true form for Argentina at this summer's World Cup in Germany.

Wantaway Chelsea striker Hernan Crespo is desperate to show his true form for Argentina at this summer's World Cup in Germany.

The 30-year-old has been offered a new two-year contract at Stamford Bridge but seems desperate to leave the Premiership champions.

With his future in limbo, Crespo is focusing on the Germany showpiece and said: "I want to show more than what I did in the last two World Cups.

"In 1998, it was my first time, there was a bit of pressure, everything was new and we had some problems with press.

"And again in 2002, unfortunately, we didn't have enough time as we came back home after the group stage.

"This World Cup will be different for me. After those experiences, I can enjoy more the fact of belonging to the national team and I think I'll be able to play a good World Cup."

Goalkeeper Roberto Abbondanzieri is waiting eagerly for coach Jose Pekerman's decision on the starting spot for in the World Cup.

Abbondanzieri had an excellent season at Boca Juniors but has yet to show the same form between the posts for Argentina.

"Nobody has told me that I'd be the starting keeper yet," he said.

"All of us are working very hard to get to Germany in good shape.

"We need to understand the coach's message, so any of the 23 players who have to enter the pitch will do it in the best way."

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Posted by soccer365 at 12:55 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)

(Soccer365.com) - Markus Rosenberg remains confident Sweden will be the main challengers to England in Group B of the World Cup.

Markus Rosenberg remains confident Sweden will be the main challengers to England in Group B of the World Cup.

The Swedes limped to a disappointing goalless draw with Scandinavian rivals Finland at Gothenburg's Ullevi Stadium on Thursday in their penultimate warm-up match before the start of the finals in Germany.

They may have been stout in defence but Sweden were toothless in attack and lightweight in midfield, with the performance doing little to persuade onlookers to take them as serious challengers this summer.

But striker Rosenberg feels his country are still a force to be reckoned with and said: "England are a very good team and have a very good chance overall, and with Sweden, we have the best chance of getting through the group stages.

"It did not go so well against Finland but I think England and Sweden will go through. After that, it is hard to say what will happen."

Of his other group opponents, the striker added: "With Trinidad and Tobago, I have never seen them so I don't know what they will be like. They could be good or bad.

"As for Paraguay, they played well against Brazil and Argentina in qualifying so they also sound like quite a good team.

"But I still hope we will qualify."

Rosenberg hardly had a sniff against the Finns while his strike partner on the day, Johan Elmander, was afforded a number of opportunities but squandered all of them.

With Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Henrik Larsson undoubtedly the first-choice pairing up front, Rosenberg would have been hoping an impressive performance would make him the next in line among the three other strikers in Sweden's squad.

That did not materialise and the 23-year-old is now counting on his superb debut season for Ajax in Holland to persuade coach Lars Lagerback to go with him in the finals.

"I always want to play but I think I will be on the bench (in Germany)," Rosenberg added.

"With Zlatan and Henrik around, it will be hard to play from the start.

"But I hope I can be third choice. I had a great first year at Ajax and the whole season I did well so hopefully that will count for something."

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(Soccer365.com) - Michael Owen was pleased to come through an hour of England B's 2-1 defeat at the hands of Belarus on Thursday night.

Michael Owen was pleased to come through an hour of England B's 2-1 defeat at the hands of Belarus on Thursday night.

Owen, who captained the side, suffered a broken metatarsal injury against Tottenham in December and has played just 30 minutes of club football in 2006 for Newcastle.

But he is building up his fitness for the World Cup and looked sharp in the defeat at The Madejski Stadium.

"I felt fine, the foot felt fine," said Owen on Sky Sports.

"I thought we were quite sharp in the first half, the wide men played well going forward.

"We were quite sloppy in the second half, giving them that (first) goal gave them impetus.

"It's disappointing to lose, but there you are."

Owen insists he was "never worried" about his fitness and stressed he was feeling good during the match.

"I feel sharp. I'm pleased I played 60 minutes and it's onwards and upwards now."

Asked about Theo Walcott, who had a half-hour run-out, Owen said: "I haven't played alongside him yet but in training you try to get to know him, know what his strengths and weaknesses are.

"It's his first introduction into the squad and was only a 'B' game but it will have felt like a full international to him."

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(Soccer365.com) - Germany striker Miroslav Klose is expecting a tough time in his bid for goals in the 2006 finals.

Germany striker Miroslav Klose is expecting a tough time in his bid for goals in the 2006 finals.

Klose was one of his country's best players at the 2002 World Cup finals when he scored five goals and he is hoping to have a similar impact in this year's tournament.

The Werder Bremen striker knows he will be marked more closely this time around and said: "The difference to 2002 is that at that time I could play absolutely relaxed because I was young and nobody really knew my name. Things have changed but it gives me extra motivation."

Klose, who ended the Bundesliga season as top scorer with 25 goals, said of the World Cup: "I want to keep improving, perform well again and try to score one or two more goals."

Klose has also praised coach Jurgen Klinsmann for an exhausting training camp.

"If I didn't feel affected physically it would be a bad preparation," he added. "But I am very happy and feel that (the training) is paying off.

"But we still have a lot of things to learn, like switching from defence to attack."

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Posted by soccer365 at 09:18 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

(Goal.com) - England striker Wayne Rooney will miss his country's three group games after a scan revealed he cannot train for at least another three weeks.

Rooney's club Manchester United have confirmed that he will need another scan on June 14 to determine when he can return to the field.

If given the all clear, he could have 10 days to get fit for a possible last-16 tie.

Rooney broke his metatarsal in a league clash with Chelsea at the end of last month.

The news gives England manager Sven-Goran Eriksson some hope that he can be involved in the latter stages, although he must decide by June 9 if he wants to call up a replacement.

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Posted by soccer365 at 09:15 AM | Permalink | Comments (5)

(Soccer365.com) - Maradona wants to coach the Argentina national team to cap his career.

Former Argentina superstar Diego Maradona says he aspires to the national team job currently held by Jose Pekerman – even if the Albiceleste win World Cup 2006..

"If my country wins the World Cup, in addition to being very happy, I will fight to have the opportunity to become coach of the national team," he asserted. "And if Argentina do not win the cup I will fight even harder to get that chance."

"Being the coach of the national team is something that I owe to myself," said the football icon. "It would be the best way to end my career."

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Posted by soccer365 at 09:05 AM | Permalink | Comments (11)

(Soccer365.com) - Spanish striker Morientes heading back to Spain after accepting Valencia deal.

Liverpool announced Thursday evening that Spain striker Fernando Morientes has joined Valencia for an undisclosed fee.

The 30-year-old former Real Madrid striker failed to live up to his reputation during his 16 months on Merseyside and managed just 12 goals in 61 games for the Reds.

He was left out of the Spanish squad for this summer's World Cup after failing to play a major role in the Liverpool first team last season.

A statement on Liverpool's official website, liverpoolfc.tv, tonight read: "Everybody at Liverpool would like to wish 'Nando' all the best with his new club in Spain."

Morientes joined Liverpool in January 2005 for £6.3million from Real but struggled to adapt to the Premiership.

The move, for a fee believed to be less than £3million, comes just two days after Morientes' agent said the player would not be returning to Spain this summer.

Liverpool were linked with a swap deal with Valencia's Marco Di Vaio, until the Italian forward snubbed talk of him moving to the Barclays Premiership club.

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(Soccer365.com) - Italy doctors still unsure whether Totti can play June 12th World Cup opener.

The Italy medical staff say they cannot yet make a prudent call on whether recovering ace Francesco Totti will be ready to go for their June 12th World Cup opener against Ghana.

The AS Roma star suffered a bad ankle break in February, and observers have marveled at his quick comeback – but the first Group E match may still come too soon.

"Totti is working with the other players, but we have also worked out a different program for him," announced Azzurri physician Enrico Castellacci.

"Obviously, it's too soon to say that he will be at 100% for the first match of the World Cup," he stated. "His situation will be evaluated more clearly at that time."

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Posted by soccer365 at 09:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (16)

It would be easy to say Angola will be completely overmatched at the World Cup. Then again, no one even expected them to get this far. Just qualifying for this summer’s tournament was a huge success. It was a glorious day last fall when the national team of Angola, a poverty-stricken country that has seen decades of war and strife, surprised everyone and quailed for the 2006 FIFA World Cup.

Realistically, if the Palancas Negras (Black Impalas) can win or even tie a game then they should consider their first World Cup a success. A win or tie against Portugal would be particularly huge, since that country was the former colonial ruler of Angola and there are still many ties between the two nations.

World Cup success could largely depend upon team captain Fabrice Akwa. The veteran forward continues to score goals though he is now in his mid-30s. Speedy young striker Pedro Mantorras (Benfica) missed many of the qualifiers with a knee injury and recently complained that Angola coach Luis Oliveira Goncalves kept him on the bench too much. If he is fit and focused he has the talent to cause problems for opposing defenses.

Several of the team’s other key players are among a group who were born in Angola but raised in Portugal. Paulo Figueiredo (Varzim) was a journeyman midfielder playing in the Portuguese second division. With Angola, however, he has been very influential and he scored a crucial goal against Nigeria in qualifying. Goalkeeper Joao Ricardo may be the only player in the tournament without a professional club. Nevertheless, the 36-year-old has been surprisingly consistent despite having to train on his own. One other player who is slightly more well known is defender Manuel Rui Marques (Leeds). Pedro Emanuel (Porto) agreed to represent Angola, but FIFA rejected his bid to switch affiliation from Portugal.

With several countries making their first trip to the World Cup this summer, one is sure to cause some surprises and go farther than the rest. Will it be Angola? Despite their perpetual underdog status they never give up. With a lucky goal and some good defense anything is possible.

Posted by SoccerAdmin at 08:45 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)

(Soccer365.com) - Czech doctors working overtime to get key striker Vladimier Smicer fit for World Cup.

Czech Republic medicos are working hard to get injured attacker Vladimier Smicer ready for World Cup after a blood clot was detected in his thigh.

"Lasers, draining, special bandages; we're trying everything possible," Dr. Jiri Fousek told Mlada Fronta Dnes.

The Bordeaux veteran says he won’t leave the team unless his hand is forced by the setback.

“The World Cup should be the peak of my career and it's worth the risk," said Smicer. "I feel a part of this team and would like to stay with it no matter what."

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Posted by soccer365 at 08:39 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

(Soccer365.com) - Berhalter steps in for the injured Gibbs in Germany.

Gregg Berhalter, a veteran of the USA’s 2002 FIFA World Cup roster, has been added to the USA’s 23-man roster for the 2006 FIFA World Cup to replace defender Cory Gibbs, who was diagnosed with a right knee injury on Thursday. Berhalter will join the U.S. in Cleveland on Friday in advance of the team’s match with Venezuela at Cleveland Browns Stadium at 7 p.m. ET live on ESPN2.

Berhalter has 44 caps across a career that spans 13 years with the U.S. Men’s National Team. Known for his strong play in the air, the 32-year-old is a highly competitive central defender with excellent man-marking abilities. He is perhaps best known for a goal-bound shot off the hand off defender Torsten Frings in the USA’s 1-0 loss to Germany in the quarterfinals of the 2002 World Cup. The non-call is among the most infamous in FIFA World Cup history.

At the club level, Berhalter recently helped Energie Cottbus of the second division in Germany earn promotion to the Bundesliga for the 2006-07 season. He has served as captain for Cottbus for the last two years. His professional career in Europe dates back to 1994 and includes stints with a number of different clubs in Holland, England and Germany.

“Naturally we are very sorry for Cory,” said U.S. Manager Bruce Arena. “We know he was looking forward to playing in his first World Cup. I believe strongly in him as a player. We are going to miss him. In Gregg, we are fortunate to have a player of his experience ready to step in to his second World Cup. I’m confident that Gregg will be able to contribute immediately to our team.”

Gibbs has two caps under his belt in 2006, both at left back. On Tuesday night he played 90 minutes in the USA’s 1-0 loss to Morocco in Nashville, Tenn., injuring the knee at an unspecified point during the match. The 26-year-old from Ft. Lauderdale, Fla., has played professional in Europe for most of his career and recently signed with Charlton Athletic of the English Premier League. He spent the 2004 season in Major League Soccer with FC Dallas. Gibbs has 19 caps in a career that began in 2003 for the USA.

The U.S. will continue their final preparations for the 2006 FIFA World Cup on Friday, May 26, when they take on Venezuela at Cleveland Browns Stadium (presented by Sierra Mist) at 7 p.m. ET, live on ESPN2 and delayed on Telemundo. Fans can also follow the action live on ussoccer.com’s MatchTracker.

After the match in Cleveland, the U.S. will head to East Hartford, Conn., for their final tune-up against Latvia (tickets) at Rentschler Field (presented by Hyundai) on Sunday, May 28, at 7 p.m. ET (live on ESPN2, delayed on Telemundo). At the game, Nike will distribute 30,000 red “Don't Tread on Me” rally towels bearing the snake and ball mark. All fans attending the game are encouraged to wear red to celebrate the U.S. Soccer team's final game in the U.S. before leaving for Germany on June 1.

The USA was drawn into Group E for the 2006 FIFA World Cup along with the Czech Republic, Ghana, and Italy. The U.S. plays their opening match against the Czechs on June 12 in Gelsenkirchen before meeting Italy on June 17 in Kaiserslautern and then finishing off group play against Ghana on June 22 in Nuremberg. The U.S. has chosen the northern port city of Hamburg as their base of operations throughout the tournament.

courtesy of ussoccer.com

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Posted by soccer365 at 08:37 AM | Permalink | Comments (5)

After Portugal won two successive FIFA World Youth Championships in 1989 and 1991, many expectations were placed upon the country’s so-named "Golden Generation" of soccer players. Unfortunately for fans, successes failed to materialize and the team consistently underachieved.

Finally, in 2004 on home soil, Portugal made it the final of a major international tournament when they advanced to meet Greece for the European Championship. They lost 0-1, however.

In World Cup qualifying Portugal was up and down. Against tiny Liechtenstein they were humiliated as they blew a 2-0 lead and tied 2-2. Liechtenstein had never before earned a point in a World Cup qualifier. Portugal then proceeded to destroy Russia, a team immensely more talented the Liechtenstein, 7-1. Liechtenstein almost played the spoiler again last fall when they led Portugal 1-0 at the half. The Portuguese were finally able to come back and seal a 2-1 win with an 85th minute goal.

This summer’s tournament will most likely be the international swan song for veteran winger Luis Figo (Inter Milan), one of the leaders of the “Golden Generation.” The former FIFA World Player of the Year remains an adept goal-creator and his leadership will be heavily relied upon. Joining Figo in the midfield will be versatile Deco (Barcelona) and immensely talented 21-year-old Cristiano Ronaldo (Manchester United). Veteran striker Pedro Pauleta (Paris Saint-Germain), who broke the legendary Eusebio's all-time scoring record of 41 goals for Portugal last fall, will most likely be the team’s top offensive weapon.

Led by Ricardo Carvalho (Chelsea), Portugal’s defense will be strong. However, the back line is sure to miss the skills of Jorge Andrade, who injured his knee while playing for Deportivo La Coruna in March.

On paper, Portugal seems to have a good mix of players. If that translates to reality then this just might be their year.

Posted by SoccerAdmin at 01:14 PM | Permalink | Comments (12)

(Soccer365.com) - U.S. captain Claudio Reyna received good news on Wednesday morning after an MRI.

U.S. captain Claudio Reyna received good news on Wednesday morning after an MRI examination revealed no muscle damage to his right hamstring. While there is no specific time frame set for his return, the prognosis is very positive.

"I am relieved that there is no serious damage," said Reyna. "I'll be working with the trainers on a daily basis and will be focused on getting back on the field as quickly as possible."

Reyna felt tightness in his hamstring around the 11th minute of the USA's 1-0 loss to Morocco on Tuesday night, and was replaced by Sierra Mist Man of the Match Pablo Mastroeni five minutes later.

The U.S., now 4-2-2 in 2006, will continue the Send-Off Series this Friday, May 26 at 7 p.m. ET, as Sierra Mist presents U.S. vs. Venezuela at Cleveland Browns Stadium in Cleveland, Ohio (tickets). The final send-off match before departing for the 2006 FIFA World Cup in Germany on June 1 will be presented by Hyundai on May 28 at 7 p.m. ET at Rentschler Field in East Hartford, Conn., vs. Latvia (tickets). Both matches will be televised live on ESPN2, and taped delay on Telemundo.

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Posted by soccer365 at 09:07 AM | Permalink | Comments (4)

(Soccer365.com) - English ace Wayne Rooney will have his broken metatarsal scanned today.

England hero Wayne Rooney will have a scan on his broken metatarsal on Thursday, but the results are not expected to be available until Friday.

Rooney is having an MRI scan on his injury and specialists will analyse the result with Manchester United's assistant team doctor Tony Gill before they are passed on to England.

England's team doctor Leif Sward has to inform FIFA by Tuesday if he expects Rooney to recover in time to take part in the World Cup.

FIFA's chief medical officer Dr Jiri Dvorak said: "Each team physician has to confirm by May 30 that their players are physically and mentally fit to participate in the World Cup.

"If Wayne Rooney is on the list then that is, in principle, confirmation that it is anticipated he will have recovered in time to participate in the tournament."

Every player has to have a range of medical tests, including heart monitoring, and be signed off by the national team doctor.

FIFA say they view this as a statement of intent that a player will be available to take part in the tournament, although if Rooney broke down again Sven-Goran Eriksson would have until June 9 to replace him in the squad.

Meanwhile, the departure of Manchester United team doctor Mike Stone from Old Trafford after 10 years remains unclear beyond the fact that he had a major bust-up with Sir Alex Ferguson.

Stone has had his employment with United terminated with immediate effect but club officials insist his departure has nothing to do with Rooney's recovery from the injury he suffered at Chelsea last month.

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Posted by soccer365 at 09:02 AM | Permalink | Comments (7)

(Soccer365.com) - Olof Mellberg fears Sweden may head into the World Cup without having tried out their first choice starting line-up ahead of the tournament.

Olof Mellberg fears Sweden may head into the World Cup without having tried out their first choice starting line-up ahead of the tournament.

The Swedes, who are in the same group as England in Germany, play their penultimate warm-up match before the finals when they take on Finland at Gothenburg's Ullevi Stadium.

A number of their star players will be missing against their fellow Scandinavians. Midfielder Freddie Ljungberg and goalkeeper Andreas Isaksson are among those nursing injuries while a clutch of players - including strikers Henrik Larsson and Zlatan Ibrahimovic - are being rested by coach Lars Lagerback following the end of gruelling campaigns with their club sides.

The friendly against Chile next Friday offers Sweden one last chance to hone their preparations before the World Cup begins and Mellberg, 28, admits that situation is not ideal.

"It (the fitness of the squad) may have looked better ahead of previous tournaments," the Aston Villa defender said. "It is important that a lot of our players are healthy so that we can work on details and play our potential starting XI for the first game."

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Posted by soccer365 at 09:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

(Soccer365.com) - Defensive ace Gabriel Heinze made his comeback for Argentina on Wednesday night.

Manchester United defender Gabriel Heinze made his comeback for Argentina on Wednesday night.

Argentina's senior team defeated the Under-20 team 4-0 in the final game in their homeland before leaving for World Cup.

Heinze has not played a first-team game since suffering a cruciate ligament injury against Villarreal in the Champions League last September.

But the 28-year-old played the entire first half and showed up well.

Argentina boss Jose Pekerman gave all his squad a run-out, except Chelsea striker Hernan Crespo who was ill.

Barcelona striker Lionel Messi also made a comeback after two months out injured.

After a goalless first half, man-of-the-match Rodrigo Palacio came on to grab a hat-trick while Javier Saviola netted the other goal.

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Posted by soccer365 at 08:57 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)

(Soccer365.com) - Ukrainian attacker Andriy Shevchenko is optimistic he will be fit to take on Spain in their World Cup opener on June 14.

Ukraine striker Andriy Shevchenko is optimistic he will be fit to play in their World Cup opener against Spain on June 14.

Shevchenko's knee injury has affected his preparation for the tournament in Germany but he is confident he will captain Ukraine in their first World Cup finals.

The AC Milan forward has been out of action since earlier this month after damaging his knee during a Serie A game.

"My condition improves day by day," said Shevchenko. "I have to be careful not to speed things up as there are certain things that you cannot hurry.

"When the doctors examine me again, my condition and my World Cup hopes will be more clear."

Shevchenko, who is a key player in coach Oleh Blokhin's side, is currently on holiday in the Cote D'Azur.

He is set to return to Milan on Thursday, where he will undergo more tests.

The 29-year-old is set to announce later this week if he will join Chelsea this summer or accept the contract extension offered by the Rossoneri.

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Posted by soccer365 at 08:55 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

There is always a side that exceeds expectations and graces the world stage with a true underdog story. G6 Journal’s Heath Young searches for one such overachiever to come out of Africa.

At least one squad will whip their faithful into a frenzy of swirling national colors and pride as they surge far deeper into this tournament than anyone expected. Herein lies the fun; trying to predict whom the Cinderella slipper will fit. I’ll get the guesswork underway with a review of the African contingent, in the hopes that we’ll have another unheralded squad provide the fun and fireworks that Nigeria, Senegal and others have in the recent past.

The highest expectations must fall on Tunisia as the only seasoned entrant and the winners of the 2004 African Cup of Nations (followed up by a strong, but unsuccessful title defense in the most recent event). With quality players at most positions including Ajax defender Hatem Trabelsi anchoring the back as team captain, Adel Chedli in the midfield and Santos and Jaziri providing potent attacking options; perhaps they are the most balanced of the African contingent.

Togo: The story here is Emmanuel Adebayor. The tall, lanky striker doesn’t look the typical footballer, but is representative of the new breed of big, fast players making their way into the ranks these days and he is a lot to handle. Adebayor may be young, but he’s not unaccustomed to being in the spotlight after proving himself at French side Monaco and subsequently making the move to Arsenal in the EPL. His 11 goals in qualifying certainly have him marked as the man to carry the hopes of Togo through the group stages.

Angola is relatively short on star power compared to its African colleagues, and it is also probably the most inexperienced team coming out of the African zone. However, team cohesion they do not lack. A number of players making up the squad are veterans of the teams that Luis Oliveira Goncalves coached to much success at the youth level. It was this cohesion and familiarity that got Angola through qualification, pulling out tough wins in closely contested matches.

The Ghana Black Stars may be in their first World Cup finals, but they have an extensive history in African football and a couple of star players in their ranks. Their strength is in the midfield with Chelsea star Michael Essien. Leadership joins Essien in the middle in the form of captain Stephen Appiah. Ghana can put the ball in the net as well via Matthew Amoah.

The Ivory Coast does not have much of a history in international football to prepare them for their first World Cup appearance. What they do have is Didier Drogba. With Drogba’s high profile success at Chelsea and his 9 goals in qualifying, though, it’s easy to forget that this squad also boasts several other known internationals. Kolo Toure and Emmanuel Eboue are teammates at Arsenal, and several of Ivory Coast’s Elephants have been playing top flight football in France. This team will be a showcase of class players, but they are in for a tough group stage having to contend with the likes of Argentina and the Netherlands.

So can any of these upstart nations make some noise in Germany? Tunisia could be in a position to do some damage with the combination of balance, quality and a slightly less imposing competition by comparison in Group H. Togo might have a shot with the quality of Adebayor up front and a good supporting cast, though they will have to contend with the Koreans and Swiss to accompany favorite France into the second round. Unfortunately for Angola, pride and spirit will not be enough to get them out of Group D. They will hang tough, but will ultimately be outmatched by seasoned and talented teams Mexico, Iran and Portugal. Ghana will meet a similar fate. Though accomplished players in their own right, the nerves of being in their first World Cup will be too much for them as they face arguably the toughest group in the competition with giants Italy, the Czech Republic and the United States. Though Ivory Coast will be one of the more entertaining teams to watch, I’m not sure they can ride the D train through to the second round without being derailed by Argentina and the Netherlands, but when you can score as they can, anything is possible.

That’s how I see this collection of African qualifiers, a particularly interesting group with 4 of the 5 making their freshman World Cup appearance. They play an exciting brand of football, and with a little luck to accompany their talent, one or two could potentially surprise and graduate to the second round.

Posted by Heath Young at 06:17 PM | Permalink | Comments (10)

Mexico has qualified for the World Cup 12 times, more than most of the great soccer superpowers, but without much success. This summer, they are truly looking to rewrite history. El Tri is ranked among FIFA’s top 10 and the roster is loaded with star players and a talented coach – Ricardo La Volpe – who are ready to surprise the world.

Star defender Rafael Marquez (Barcelona) is an always-reliable leader who has wowed audiences at home and abroad. He began playing professionally at the age of 17 with Mexican club Atlas de Guadalajara. With such solid experience, he is already an important fixture in La Volpe’s squad and is expected to be prominent in Germany.

Oswaldo Sanchez (Chivas de Guadalajara) has become a true idol in Mexican soccer. Fans almost worship the keeper, whom they call San Oswaldo (Saint Oswaldo). As Mexico’s greatest goalkeeper, he is also revered among the best in all of Latin America. Aside from his great defensive skills, Sanchez serves as a tremendous leader for Mexico.

Forward Jared Borgetti (Bolton Wanderers), known as the “Desert Fox,” is a lethal striker and his 14 goals made him the top scorer in the World Cup qualifiers. With Borgetti and talent like Guillermo Franco (Villarreal) and Francisco Fonseca (Cruz Azul), Mexico has become a very difficult side to beat (with or without snubbed striker Cuauhtemoc Blanco).

Mexico has advanced past the initial group stage of the World Cup only three times, but it’s more than most teams. If they maintain the momentum that has kept them raging through the preliminaries, El Tri has a great chance of making it to the quarterfinals. Mexico has a history of being “almost there,” and they are determined to change that.

Posted by SoccerAdmin at 06:00 PM | Permalink | Comments (75)

Critics say that this year’s Iranian squad is desperate to make their mark on the world stage. It will be Team Melli’s third trip to the World Cup, the first in eight years, after a struggle to reach the top of their Asian region. But there is more than just desperation surrounding their journey to the finals. Iran will be sending their best squad ever to Germany, bursting with youthful talent along with a strong core of trusty, veteran leaders.

When it comes to Iranian soccer, you can’t get past any commentary that doesn’t include seasoned striker Ali Daei (Saba Battery). He holds the record as the all-time leading goal scorer in international matches, with a spectacular 107 goals in 143 matches. At 36 years old, Daei’s goal-scoring savvy is still on point. He was the leading scorer in Asia last year and is now captain of the team. Expect him to score some killer goals in Germany, just as he did in Iran’s last three matches.

Twenty-seven-year-old Ali Karimi (Bayern Munich) leads the pack of youngsters that are set to make some great impressions. Nicknamed the “Wizard of Tehran,” Karimi has also been called the “Persian Maradona.” His strong performances at Bayern Munich, where he scored in his Champions League debut, and with Iran made Karimi the Asian Player of the Year 2004.

Mehdi Mahdavikia (SV Hamburg) is another young Iranian player honing his skills in Germany. “The Rocket’s” speed, sharp vision and passing skills, and acute ability to set pieces will surely be of use. Rounding out the foursome are Ferydoon Zandi (FC Kaiserslautern) and Vahid Hashemian (Hannover), also with experience on German turf.

While youth can be a strength, many are calling it an issue for Iran. Fifteen players on the roster recently are between 21 and 25 years old, an overwhelmingly large number to be playing in the World Cup for the first time. But many have faith that this highly-praised squad will persevere.

Posted by SoccerAdmin at 05:57 PM | Permalink | Comments (9)

(Soccer365.com) - Carlos Ruiz led the FC Dallas comeback victory as he set up a goal and scored the winner.

Carlos Ruiz helped set up the late equalizer, then scored the winner with three minutes to play as FC Dallas moved six points clear of the rest of the league with a 2-1 fight back at New York.

Trailing to a eighth minute Seth Stammler goal, the visitors got even when El Pescadito and Ronnie O'Brien set up Kenny Cooper's fifth goal of the young season with 14 minutes on the clock.

The Guatemala star then took a Richard Mulrooney feed, spun twice, and beat Tony Meola for the winner.

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Posted by soccer365 at 10:52 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

(Goal.com) - The England 'B' team play Belarus in an international friendly at Reading's Madejski Stadium on Thursday, with Sven-Goran Eriksson likely to give Newcastle United striker Michael Owen a run out and to hand debuts to teenagers Theo Walcott of Arsenal and Tottenham's Aaron Lennon.

The Belarus game is the first warm-up match for the 28-man squad - including five players on stand-by - announced by Eriksson for the World Cup on May 8.

England have also arranged to play friendlies against Hungary and Jamaica at Old Trafford the following week before flying out to Germany for their first match of the World Cup against Paraguay.

The coach told the FA's official website: “The World Cup is just weeks away and the excitement is building. This is now a crucial time as we put together the last pieces in our preparation.

“I feel extremely positive about this squad. There is a great blend of youth and experience, with talented individuals in every part of the team, and I remain confident that we are among those teams who can win the competition.

“The B international against Belarus gives me a chance to look at players like Theo Walcott and Aaron Lennon who are new to the squad, and players like Michael Owen who are coming back from injury.

“It's also an incredible opportunity for local fans to see the national team in action. Reading has been a happy home for the England Under-21s in recent years and hopefully we can keep that winning streak going. It's been a fanastic season for the club and now international football comes to the Madejski Stadium." [Reading have just won the Championship with a record points haul and will play in the Premiership next season for the first time in their history].

“A full house with a classic English atmosphere will provide a huge lift to the players, and strong performances in our three friendlies will see us head to Germany on a high. You the fans can do your bit by filling the stadium and cheering us on.”

Tickets have been sold-out for the game, England's first ever against Belarus at senior level. Arsenal's Alexander Hleb is in the Belarus squad.

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Posted by soccer365 at 10:50 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

(Goal.com) - Barcelona based 'Sport' are claiming that Chelsea and Milan have agreed on a deal, which will see the Blues offer cash plus defender William Gallas in exchange for Andriy Shevchenko. This would be a second major coup for Roman Abramovich and Chelsea this summer after signing Michael Ballack from Bayern Munich.

Sport have reported Chelsea have agreed a four year deal worth just over £6 million per year with Shevchenko, and that only the final details remain to be sorted out with Milan.

The Rossoneri are happy with Gallas coming their way in exchange, but are keen to make a little more money off their star.

Chelsea have currently offered 40 million Euros along with the French international defender, and Milan are apparently looking to push that closer to 50, particularly given the fact that Chelsea are involved.

However, the deal is practically in place, minus the final details, and set be announced publicly tomorrow, as both Gallas and Shevchenko are keen to get it out of the way well before the World Cup.

Shevchenko himself assured yesterday in Moscow, during a promotional campaign, that he would end the uncertainty over his future by tomorrow following a summit with Milan executive Galliani.

If the reports are true, it would be the second major catch for Chelsea this summer, after snapping up German skipper Michael Ballack earlier this month.

As for Gallas, Mourinho had been reluctant to let him go despite the Frenchman's will to leave. But the prospect of landing Sheva helped tip the scales. The Frenchman was also being chased by Barcelona, who have been relegated to mere spectators by the recent turn of events.

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Posted by soccer365 at 09:22 AM | Permalink | Comments (23)

(Soccer365.com) - Spanish defender Michel Salgado is out for Saturday's Russia match due to a hamstring injury.

Spain international Michel Salgado has suffered a hamstring injury in training and will miss Saturday's friendly against Russia.

The Real Madrid right back hurt his right thigh during Tuesday's workouts and will have to undergo more tests to know the severity of the injury.

"My first impression is that there's no serious damage," said Spain team doctor Genaro Borras.

"The injury is in the same area where two years ago he sustained a more serious problem.

"In 48 hours we will have another test but I believe he could recover in five days."

Salgado missed Euro 2004 after tearing a hamstring only two days into his national team's preparations for the tournament in Portugal.

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Posted by soccer365 at 09:12 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

(Soccer365.com) - Trinidad and Tobago continued their World Cup build-up with a 3-2 victory over Austria Vienna on Tuesday night.

Trinidad and Tobago continued their World Cup build-up with a 3-2 victory over Austria Vienna on Tuesday night.

The Soca Warriors - who are in Group B alongside England, Sweden and Paraguay - went ahead in the 25th minute with a goal from Coventry striker Stern John.

St Johnstone forward Jason Scotland added a second two minutes later as the Caribbean side went in at half-time with a 2-0 lead.

Coach Leo Beenhakker made eight changes at the break with only skipper Dwight Yorke, Chris Birchall and Densill Theobald keeping their places.

Andreas Walzer pulled a goal back for the Austrians in the 79th minute but substitute Kenwyne Jones of Southampton restored Trinidad and Tobago's advantage.

Austria pulled a goal back from the penalty spot in injury time but Beenhakker's side had done enough for victory.

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Posted by soccer365 at 09:09 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)

(Soccer365.com) - Brazil coach Carlos Alberto Parreira believes his side cannot rely on past glories to cruise through this summer's World Cup.

Brazil coach Carlos Alberto Parreira believes his side cannot rely on past glories to cruise through this summer's World Cup.

The Selecao hold the record for most trophies won, and although many of the current squad tasted victory in Japan and South Korea in 2002, Parreira is confident they will want more.

"We have players who have won a lot of things, including World Cups, but we have to have humility in order to play as a team," he said.

"It is important for the players to have motivation for this World Cup.

"We haven't run out of hunger to be champions.

"We have the same obligation to win as the other teams, but it's important to go back to Brazil conscious that we did our best.

"It's a treacherous competition, in which weaker teams can surprise. But in nobody's head is there the thought of returning home early."

Brazil face Australia, Japan and Croatia in World Cup Group F.

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Posted by soccer365 at 09:07 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

(Soccer365.com) - Coach Pekerman is especially eager to see Heinze and Messi, who have not seen action in some time.

Argentina coach Jose Pekerman is hoping to run the rule over Gabriel Heinze and Lionel Messi before the World Cup kicks off in June.

Manchester United defender Heinze has not played since September last year but is expected to feature in Argentina's friendly against Angola on May 30, although Barcelona playmaker Messi is more of a doubt with a thigh problem.

On Heinze Pekerman said: "We need him to have some minutes on the pitch - perhaps not the whole match, but some minutes.

"It will depend mainly on how he is in training, but we still want to see him play.

"However it is hasty to say Messi will be able to play that friendly.

"Messi was the last player to get to Buenos Aires and at the moment his rhythm is off, but we have enough time."

With regards to his preparations for the World Cup, Pekerman added: "I know who most of the starters will be for the first game, but I cannot reveal them because we need to build up a plan to try to get to our best in a short period of time."

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Posted by soccer365 at 08:50 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

(Soccer365.com) - US skipper Claudio Reyna strained his hamstring in the loss to Morocco and will await an MRI.

Manchester City's Claudio Reyna went off injured in the 16th minute as the USA were beaten 1-0 by Morocco in a World Cup warm-up in Nashville.

The USA captain suffered a hamstring strain, but is hopeful of being fit for the tournament in Germany next month.

Reyna told ussoccer.com: "I'm going to get an MRI, it is close to the games, so obviously it is not the best timing but I'm hoping I've gotten away with something very minor.

"I'm optimistically thinking that it is not going to be something long term, but tomorrow I will know better."

Mohamed Madihi beat Borussia Moenchengladbach goalkeeper Kasey Keller in the final minute to stun the 26,141 fans at the Coliseum in Tennessee.

The USA are in Group E alongside Italy, Ghana and the Czech Republic.

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Posted by soccer365 at 08:44 AM | Permalink | Comments (5)

The keys to Dutch World Cup success will be on opposite ends of the field. Striker Ruud van Nistelrooy on offense and goalkeeper Edwin Van der Sar on defense. But there's a lot of quality in between.

Nistelrooy (Manchester United), a lethal marksman, will have to score goals, something he seems to have little problem doing. One the other end, 6’5” goalkeeper and team captain Van der Sar (Manchester United) is one of the best in the game. With over 100 caps for his country, he is also the veteran leader the team will look to. If these two players continue to perform as they have Holland’s road to Berlin will be much easier.

Coach Marco van Basten has so far done an outstanding job mixing young, relatively unknown players with established stars. Among the players who have recently flourished are Dirk Kuyt (Feyenoord), Khalid Boulahrouz (Hamburger SV) and Hedwiges Maduro (Ajax). Forward Arjen Robben (Chelsea) is also a weapon. And midfielders Wesley Sneijder (Ajax) and Rafael van der Vaart (Hamburger SV) are coming into their own.

Holland has twice finished second in the World Cup. In the 1974 final in Germany, the Dutch had an early lead but eventually lost to the host country. Now that the tournament is again being played in neighboring Germany, they would love to take the trophy in the home of their archrivals. Holland will have the talent to do so but will they once again fall short? Surviving group play could be tough and a key game will be against Ivory Coast.

Posted by SoccerAdmin at 05:08 PM | Permalink | Comments (21)

(Soccer365.com) - Mexican national team captain, Rafael Marquez endorsed coach Ricardo La Volpe in spite of all his detractors.

Ricardo La Volpe has been heavily criticized lately, especially since naming his World Cup '06 roster, in which he added some unpopular names, and left out some big ones.

But he does have one important person in his corner: team captain, Rafael Marquez.

Marquez joined the team on Tuesday in St. Etienne where they will begin training for the World Cup, to kick off June 9th.

“I think that yes, he should stay,” said Marquez about the Argentinean head coach. “It’s the first time we’ve had a coach so long, and it’s also the first time we cruised through the qualifiers.”

Marquez, who has been the team’s leader since he was 23, added: “There has been more good than bad.”
“I think continuity is good in any environment, as long as things are going well, and things are going well, so I’d love for Ricardo to stay.”

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Posted by soccer365 at 12:39 PM | Permalink | Comments (7)

This team, which formerly played as Yugoslavia in international soccer, turned out to be one of the surprises of World Cup qualifying. In a group that included Spain and Belgium they managed to go undefeated, winning six of their 10 games and drawing the other four.

The key to success for the team has been a defense that gave up only one goal during qualifying -an amazing statistic. Goalkeeper Dragoslav Jevric (Ankaraspor) has been outstanding as have team captain Mladen Krstajic (Schalke 04) and Ivica Dragutinovic (Sevilla) on the back line. Nemanja Vidic (Manchester United) is extremely promising defender. The 24-year-old moved to the English Premier League from Spartak Moscow in January and has already seen playing time.

The midfield and the forwards have not been as consistently solid but there will be very capable players holding down those positions. Look for Mateja Kezman (Atletico Madrid) and veteran striker Savo Milosevic (Osasuna) to lead the attack. Experienced Dejan Stankovic (Inter Milan) will definitely be an asset on the left side of the midfield. Sasa Ilic (Galatasaray) and Zvonimir Vukic (Portsmouth) are also able playmakers.

Serbia and Montenegro will face a tough challenge in World Cup group play. After giving up only one goal in qualifying, their defense should be up to the challenge but the question will be whether or not they can score goals. If they can, and the scores are low, anything is possible.

Posted by SoccerAdmin at 12:30 PM | Permalink | Comments (7)

(Soccer365.com) - Argentina phenom Lionel Messi says he feels perfectly comfortable performing in an all out attack side as they head into World Cup 2006.

Argentina phenom Lionel Messi says he feels perfectly comfortable performing in an all out attack side as they head into World Cup 2006.

"We are calm at the moment and we prefer not to talk too much," said the Barcelona ace. "I am looking forward to playing."

"In the last few games, we showed the Argentina national side is attack-minded and that is something I like."

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Posted by soccer365 at 10:37 AM | Permalink | Comments (3)

(Goal.com) - Czech Republic star Tomas Rosicky is set to sign for Arsenal after his national coach confirmed the Borussia Dortmund player was undergoing a medical with the Champions League runners-up.

"I am surprised it did not come to light earlier," said Czech Republic coach Karel Bruckner.

"I must now admit that Tomas is undergoing medical tests."

The 25-year-old playmaker joined Dortmund from Sparta Prague for 18 million pounds in 2001. The Czech Republic international has joined Arsenal, the Champions League runner-up, on a long-term contract for an undisclosed fee.

Rosicky has made 31 appearances in the Champions League for Borussia Dortmund and Sparta Prague, and had been expected to sign for Atletico Madrid.

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Posted by soccer365 at 10:27 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

(Goal.com) - USA (#5 FIFA Rank) v. Morocco (#36 FIFA Rank)
When: 7 pm ET, Tuesday, May 23, 2006
Where: The Coliseum, Nashville, TN

USA’s 2006 pre-World Cup tune-ups are not the most daunting, which may conjure up painful memories of the 1998 World Cup in France, where the Americans finished dead last. Eight years ago, USA’s final preparations included pansy matches against the likes of Moldova, Kuwait, and Austria (the famous match where former U.S. coach Steve Sampson trotted out the ill-fated 3-6-1 formation, which gave Sampson false hope after two late goals resulted in a 3-0 win for the U.S. over the Austrians), before a final tune-up with World Cup-bound Scotland. Tuesday’s clash with Morocco – a depleted Moroccan side at that – is the first of three “Send Off’ matches, which also include dates with Venezuela (Friday, May 26) and Latvia (Sunday, May 28). If anything is to be taken from any of USA’s three matches over the next six days it’s that friendly results are not always indicative of success at major tournaments.

Regardless, fans of the Red, White and Blue will be tuning in eagerly Tuesday night to see what formation Bruce Arena trots out, from which the die-hard supporters will begin countless discussions over the implications of certain pairings and positioning schemes. As always is the case with Arena, it is anybody’s guess which players will start; and there are myriad possibilities in all areas of the park. Adding to the intrigue is word that 18-year-old Heerenveen and former U.S. U-17 midfielder Michael Bradley will be dressing, no doubt a reward for his hard work in training and in helping the team prepare. Bradley was not named to USA’s 23-man World Cup roster, nor was he named among the list of alternates in case of injuries ahead of the start of the tournament.

Morocco, meantime, will be fielding a depleted side. Top Atlas Lions who will miss the match include injured AS Roma midfielder Houssine Kharja, Osasuna's Moha Yaagoubi, Dynamo Kyiev's Badr El Kaddouri, and Kamel Chafni of Ajaccio. Skipper Noureddine Naybet, who spent most of the season on the bench with his English Premiership club Tottenham, as well as playmaker Youssef Safri, who recently had his gall bladder removed, are both misssing. Bordeaux striker Marouane Chamakh, out-of-form midfielder Youssef Mokhtari, and striker Jaouad Zairi also have been left out. But with all of the absences, manager M’hamed Fakher will have a chance to get a look at some new players, like Dutch-born Gent striker Mbark Boussoufa.

This match has all the makings of being an entertaining affair, albeit heavily one-sided. With the German Hofbrauhaus nearly within reach, Arena’s men won’t be that eager to get stuck in for fear of suffering a Cup-ending injury. But they possess too much quality to suffer a defeat. With Morocco’s team in flux, the odds of knocking off USA’s ‘A’ team are slim to none. A victory for the Atlas Lions would be to keep the final score respectable.

Goal.com Prediction: USA 3, Morocco 0

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Posted by soccer365 at 08:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (11)

(Soccer365.com) - Barcelona striker Henrik Larsson believes Sweden can shock everyone in Germany this summer by winning the World Cup.

Barcelona striker Henrik Larsson believes Sweden can shock everyone in Germany this summer by winning the World Cup.

The 34-year-old is preparing for his fourth - and possibly final - major competition with his country and has only one aim in mind.

"You have to believe we will win," he told Swedish newspaper Aftonbladet. "Otherwise you can just forget about going there. Then we have to see what we can and cannot do.

"I do not have to play in this tournament if I do not believe in winning it.

"Of course it is difficult to achieve that, but you need to have a dream."

Larsson, part of Sweden's 23-man squad which has gathered in Visby, has enjoyed almost constant success throughout his club career.

His finest hour arguably arrived in Wednesday's Champions League final, where he came off the bench to set up both Barcelona goals in their 2-1 victory over Arsenal, his last game for the Catalan giants.

The former Celtic hitman, who will end his career in Sweden when he joins Helsingborg after the World Cup, has been one of his country's key players for almost a decade but insists World Cup glory is only possible if the whole team perform in Germany.

"It is about the team and not about one, two, three or four players," he said.

Sweden have been drawn in World Cup Group B, alongside Trinidad and Tobago, Paraguay and England.

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Posted by soccer365 at 08:18 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)

In the eyes of the Ivory Coast team, it was a “divine qualification.” The underdogs will finally perform on soccer’s greatest stage in their first World Cup appearance, providing fans with a high caliber of talent to keep them on their toes. While not so strong in the past, the Ivory Coast has emerged over the last two years as one of the most powerful soccer nations in Africa. Divine, indeed.

Star striker Didier Drogba (Chelsea) has imposed his winning mentality on the team and become an influential leader. With nine goals in qualifiers, Drogba is a fierce weapon for the Ivory Coast. His solid skills—incredible speed and goal-scoring talent—coupled with European playing experience will certainly help give him the chance to make his mark in World Cup history. Also look out for the young forward Aruna Dindane (Racing Club de Lens), whose teamwork with Drogba in the qualifiers is touted as the reason for the Ivorian’s success.

Kolo Touré (Arsenal) is another young star on the rise. The 24-year-old’s acute tackling abilities make him one of the most sought-after defenders in European soccer. The well-rounded player is also famous for his “venomous shot.”

Often joining Touré on the backline are Cyril Domoraud (US Créteil) and brother Yaya Touré (Olympiacos), both talented defenders to look out for. The Elephants should also get valuable contributions from Didier Zokora (Saint-Etienne) and keeper Jean Jacques Tizie (Esperance Tunis).

The Ivory Coast’s potential lineup has already granted them a historic qualification to the World Cup. Though slotted in a tough group, the talented squad is set to leave a big impression on the world stage.

Posted by SoccerAdmin at 05:18 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)

(Soccer365.com) - Watford defender Jay DeMerit was over the moon after helping the club earn a return to the Premiership with a 3-0 win over Eddie Lewis and Leeds United in Cardiff.

The American Abroad scored the opening goal with a crashing header, but said credit should go to the entire side.

"We prepared for the game like all of the other 48 games this season though and we all knew what we had to do," DeMerit told the club website.

"If eleven guys do their job there's no reason why you shouldn't win and today was testament to that."

"I enjoyed the goal for about 35-seconds and then it was back to my job!"

As for whether he was ready to test himself against the top flight’s finest: "I can't wait."

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(Soccer365.com) - Germany netminder Jens Lehmann believes the hosts can achieve great things at World Cup 2006 if they can remember that soccer is only a game.

"We all need to enjoy this World Cup and not think about the huge pressure," he told reporters. "I noticed from playing in the Champions League that it is fun to play in the big games."

"I am convinced we can go on a good run with this team and land the ultimate prize."

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Posted by soccer365 at 04:26 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)

(Soccer365.com) - Inter Milan midfielder Cristiano Zanetti has disclosed that he has will join former coach Fabio Capello at Juventus this summer.

The Italy international leaves San Siro on a free transfer.

“I am a Juventus player,” he told Tuttosport. “I made the decision, after much thought, in the winter.”

“The presence of Capello is important to me,” stated Zanetti. “Inter offered me a new contract, but I have trust and belief in Capello.”

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Posted by soccer365 at 04:25 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

(Soccer365.com) - New Ajax boss Henk ten Cate revealed to a national television audience that the club are closed to shoring up a couple of positions in the transfer market.

The Amsterdammers are closed to securing the services of Steaua Bucharest right back George Ogararu.

The erstwhile Barcelona assistant coach also hinted that oft-injured midfielder Gabri could follow him from Nou Camp.

"Gabri would be a great player for Ajax," Ten Cate told Studio Voetbal. "He can play in more than one position and is a good professional."

The club are also reportedly on the trail of Genk midfield prodigy Steven Defour.

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Posted by soccer365 at 04:24 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

(Soccer365.com) - Fenerbahçe striker Nicolas Anelka has cast about against coach Raymond Domenech in the aftermath of being left out of France’s World Cup squad.

The marksman scored on his last call-up, and feels he didn’t get a fair shake.

“I won't watch the World Cup,” he told Le Journal du Dimanche. “I have not been judged on my sporting qualities.”

“It looks as though from the start he decided against calling me for the World Cup.”

“I think I deserved a place in the team,” snorted Anelka.

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Posted by soccer365 at 04:23 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

(Soccer365.com) - Porto midfield outcast Diego is headed for Werder Bremen in a €6 million deal, but fired a parting shot at the Dragons coach Co Adriaanse.

“What happened to me in the last few games was a lack of respect,” said the Brazilian youngster, who could succeed outgoing playmaker Johan Micoud. “I never had any disciplinary problems at the club.”

“I trained hard like everybody else and I was even praised for my application in training, but I wasn’t even included in the squad.”

Diego was also miffed that Adriaanse declined to suit him up for a proper goodbye in a end of season friendly.

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Posted by soccer365 at 04:19 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

(Soccer365.com) - Spain will be looking to send a warning to World Cup rivals Ukraine when they take on Russia in Saturday's friendly in Albacete.

Spain will be looking to send a warning to World Cup rivals Ukraine when they take on Russia in Saturday's friendly in Albacete.

Spain coach Luis Aragones believes the clash will be crucial for his team's preparations, bearing in mind their Group H opener against Ukraine on June 14 in Leipzig.

"This is the most important warm up game that we have because Russia is a very similar team to Ukraine and that is the reason we chose them," Aragones said.

"The first games are always important, whether it is a preparation game or a World Cup, and I expect a lot of concentration from my players on Saturday.

"My starting XI against Russia will be very similar to the team that will play in the first game of the World Cup."

The Spaniards have never gone past the quarter-final stages in football's most prestigious tournament but they are looking to go all the way in Germany.

"I am convinced that we are going to win," said Aragones.

"The national team coach that goes to the World Cup without thinking that his team are going to win - it's better that he retires.

"Sometimes the best team doesn't win because it's the team that is better prepared mentally and physically."

Spain will contest Group H alongside Ukraine, Tunisia and Saudi Arabia.

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Posted by soccer365 at 12:59 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

The World Cup success of Argentina is difficult to predict. The names are not as well know as some of the other big contenders but the roster should include a good mix of veterans and young players just waiting for a chance to shine on the international stage.

The key for Argentina will be playmaker Juan Román Riquelme (Villarreal). Regarded as one of the top midfielders in European club soccer, he has the ability to completely control a game. His teammate in Spain, Juan Pablo Sorin, is equally adept in the midfield. Another crucial member of the squad will be defender Gabriel Heinze (Manchester United). Currently injured, he is expected to be ready to go by June and should anchor the back line.

Up front, look for Carlos Tévez (Corinthians) and Hernan Crespo (Chelsea) to lead the attack. Since he plays his club soccer in Brazil, Tévez is the lesser-known of the pair but he is an immensely gifted goalscorer. Also keep an eye out for Leo Messi (Barcelona). The talented young midfielder, who will be 18 when the World Cup begins, was the leading scorer at the 2005 FIFA World Youth Championship.

Argentina has won the World Cup twice before (1978 and 1986). They essentially didn’t bother to show up for the tournament in 2002, however, and failed to get out of the first round. This year should be different. With the combination of experienced leadership and exciting young talent, the Argentineans just might be taking a certain gold trophy home from Germany with them.

Posted by SoccerAdmin at 12:20 PM | Permalink | Comments (20)

Cary, NC (Sports Network) - With the June 9th start to the 2006 FIFA World Cup quickly approaching, the U.S. Men's National Team is leaving the training field for the final three friendly matches before the tournament.

The U.S. National Team kicks-off the World Cup June 12 in Gelsenkirchen, Germany against Group E opponent the Czech Republic. Until then, manager Bruce Arena has three final "Send-Off" matches to tweak his World Cup roster.

Training camp officially comes to an end on Tuesday, when Arena's 23-man World Cup squad travels to Nashville, Tennessee to face Morocco for the first of three friendly matches. The team returns to the field May 26 for a match with Venezuela and then finishes the three-match stint against Latvia on May 28.

"I'm pleased that we were able to arrange these three friendlies as part of our preparation for the World Cup," Arena said.

The three matches will be the first time the U.S. National Team will take the field with its World Cup squad.

"With the World Cup taking place in Europe, scheduling matches has been extremely difficult this time around; however, I think the opposition we will be facing will give us the right type of competition we need as we move forward with our preparations for Germany," Arena said.

Tuesday's meeting will be the team's first appearance in Nashville, with the match taking place at The Coliseum.

Morocco poses the U.S. National Team's toughest opponent of the three matches. Ranked 36 in FIFA's latest edition of its world rankings, Morocco narrowly missed qualifying for the 2006 World Cup after finishing in a draw with Tunisia. The draw was just enough to knock Morocco out of the running for a World Cup spot.

Losing to Morocco in 1992 and 1999, the U.S. has never beaten Morocco.

For the team's next match at Cleveland Browns Stadium in Cleveland, Ohio, the U.S. hosts Venezuela after beating the opponent, 2-0, March 29, 2003. Overall, the two teams have met twice, with the U.S. taking one win and one draw.

The team finishes the "Send-Off" series with the final match against Latvia at Rentschler Field in East Hartford, Connecticut. The match will be the U.S. National Team's first meeting with Latvia.

"We look forward to the support of the American fans and some fantastic atmospheres in these venues as we undertake the challenge of getting our team ready to compete in the World Cup," Arena said.

Posted by SoccerAdmin at 11:32 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

(Goal.com) - Chicago, New York, Dallas, Salt Lake and Colorado all winners last weekend in MLS.

Houston Dynamo 0 - 1 Chicago Fire

The Chicago Fire picked up their second win of the year as they begin the season with a nine-match road trip. The victory also extends the Fire’s six match unbeaten streak.

Thiago was the lone goal scorer, but the offensive minded midfielder also contributed on the defensive side of the ball to preserve the clean sheet for Chicago. Minutes after blocking a Brad Davis shot, Thiago nutmegged Eddie Robinson on a thirty yard run that finished with a shot from just outside the penalty area, beating an outstretched Pat Onstad.

A furious offensive finish almost evened the match for Houston. In the 89th minute, Alejandro Moreno appeared to score for the Dynamo, but as his shot crossed the goal line referee Hilario Grajeda whistled him for a foul on Leonard Griffin. In the fourth minute of stoppage time Kelly Gray snapped a header that banged the cross bar. The rebound made its way to defender Eddie Robinson, but his cross rolled harmlessly through the six yard box and was easily cleared.

The first half saw each team use set pieces to generate scoring chances. Dynamo midfielder Davis first sent a free kick deep into Chicago’s penalty Area, but defender Craig Waibel could not turn his header on frame. A corner kick six minutes later found Robinson, but the North Carolina product put a shot over the crossbar from four yards out. Chicago’s best chance of the opening half came just before the half hour mark when Diego Gutierrez lofted a free kick into the box that found the head of Nate Jaqua who flicked it on net, forcing a diving save from Pat Onstad.

Columbus Crew 1, D.C. United 1

The Columbus Crew weathered a storm by the visiting D.C. United who had plenty of chances, but who could not find their final touch. The two goals in the match came in a six minute span in the first half. The Crew struck first when Ezra Hendrickson sent a long pass down the right wing and striker Joseph Ngwenya, playing in only his second match for the Black & Gold, outraced an onrushing Troy Perkins to the ball and deftly chipped the goalkeeper from a sharp angle. United quickly answered as an offensive flurry ended with Freddy Adu’s driven shot saved by Jon Busch, but the netminder could not hold on to the rebound and Christian Gomez easily scored his third goal of the year. United pressed for a go-ahead goal in the second half but could only score the one goal on their seventeen shots. The Crew, who have suffered numerous injuries this season, lost Busch ten minutes from time as he slipped coming out to catch a United corner kick. Andy Gruenebaum made his MLS debut, but was not forced to make a save.

Red Bull New York 5, Chivas USA 4

For the second consecutive season Red Bull New York and Chivas USA delighted fans with a high scoring affair at the Meadowlands, this time ending in Red Bull’s first win of the season. The home side’s attack equaled scoring in their first six matches as their offense opened up with the mercurial Amado Guevara watching from the stands as he served a club-imposed one game suspension. All five goals by the home team were scored by just two players as Jen Philippe Peguero tallied a hat trick and Seth Stammler scored his first two career goals. Chivas, who found themselves down 2-0 on a pair of Peguero goals before halftime, conceded Stammler’s first before they could answer with goals by Ante Razov and Paco Palencia five minutes apart. Stammler’s second came in the 69th minute as he headed home a Youri Djorkaeff free kick. The two clubs alternated goals down the stretch as Chivas twice pulled back within one goal on Razov’s and Palencia’s second goals of the night, but Peguero’s final goal in the 89th minute capped the win for New York. Jon Conway started for the second consecutive match for an injured Tony Meola.

FC Dallas 4, New England Revolution 0

The New England Revolution came out on top the last four times these two met, but FC Dallas put an end to that streak quick at Pizza Hut Park. The Hoops set an MLS record by scoring four goals in the first 19 minutes of play putting the match out of reach early for the Revs. Kenny Cooper got the scoring started in the fourth minute heading a Chris Gbandi pass in from the top of the penalty box. Then Carlos Ruiz took over, scoring in the seventh and sixteenth, and then assisting on a Ramon Nunez strike in the nineteenth. Ruiz’s first goal came on a volley from 40 yards out on a pass from Simo Valakari, while his second came seven minutes later on a rebound in front of the net. In the 19th minute Ruiz then registered his third assist of the season, finding Nunez at the penalty spot to cap off the scoring. The win keeps the Hoops atop of MLS, while the loss snaps the Revs two game winning streak.

Real Salt Lake 2, Kansas City Wizards 1

After going winless for 18 straight, Real Salt Lake has started a new streak, winning their second consecutive by defeating the Kansas City Wizards 2-1. Kansas City took the lead in the 21st minute on a counterattack when Davy Arnaud found Ryan Pore in front of the net. The Wizards held the lead for much of the game, but RSL tallied two goals in the final 15 minutes for the win. In the 78th minute rookie midfielder Mehdi Ballouchy knotted the score scoring his first MLS goal. Ballouchy found the back of the net from the top of the box after receiving a Chris Klein cross from the right side of the pitch. After scoring two of the bench a week ago, Jeff Cunningham proved once again that he’s the league’s most dangerous sub. Two minutes after Ballouchy’s strike, Cunningham registered the match-winner, beating goalkeeper Bo Oshoniyi inside the left post on a sharp-angled shot from the endline. The win is Salt Lake’s first home win of the season, while the loss is the Wizard’s second straight since losing three players to the U.S. National for the World Cup.

Los Angeles Galaxy 0, Colorado Rapids 1

The losing continues for the Los Angeles Galaxy, as the defending champions lost their fourth straight on rookie Jacob Peterson’s first MLS goal in the 14th minute. An Eric Denton through ball found Peterson, who held off two Galaxy defenders and beat L.A. goalkeeper Steven Cronin to the far post. The Rapids defense held L.A. to a lone shot on goal in the first half, but that would all change in the second half as the offense opened up for Steve Sampson’s squad with the addition of forward Herculez Gomez. The Gals registered 15 shots in the second half, as ‘Pids ‘keeper Bouna Coundoul was peppered by Gomez and newly acquired teammates Kyle Martino and John Wolyniec. In the end Coundoul and Colorado were too much for Los Angeles, as their scoreless steak extended to an MLS record 390 minutes. The shutout is Colorado’s first of the season, while Los Angeles has yet to win a “home match” this season, despite defeating Chivas USA at the Home Depot Center earlier this season.

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Posted by soccer365 at 10:48 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

(Soccer365.com) - San Luis put up a strong fight but Richard Nuñez’s penalty kick did them in as Pachuca prevailed 1-0 to lift their fourth title.

Both teams played conservatively, taking few risks during the second leg, played at Pachuca's Hidalgo stadium. Knowing they would win with a tie, Pachuca did little offensively.

Needing the win to advance, San Luis were slightly more inclined to attack. Striker Jesus Mendoza came close in the first half with a shot that Pachuca goalkeeper Miguel Calero palmed safely.

The Tuzos best chance came in the 71st when Luis Angel Landin broke free of his markers but crashed his shot onto a post.

It looked like a replay from the first leg, hotly contested, played mostly in the midfield.

Until the 79th minute, when Andres Chitiva was bowled over by San Luis substitute Angel Reyna and given the dubious maximum penalty.

Uruguayan strike ace Richard Nuñez, held in check by the stifling San Luis defense, came through with the penalty kick for the only goal of the series.

Already having the lead, Pachuca put all their players behind the ball and concentrated on defending their lead.

The Tuneros had little answer to their defensive tactics, and Calero was not troubled again.

Pachuca's previous Mexican titles were the Invierno championships of 1999 and 2001, and the Apertura title of 2003.

Colombian goalkeeper, Miguel Calero, perhaps the finals MVP, dedicated the trophy to the fans: “We’re champions and I believe we deserved it as we played well not only in the regular season but also in the playoffs, and it’s a great reward not just for us but for all these people.”

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Posted by soccer365 at 09:19 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

(Soccer365.com) - Argentina midfielder Esteban Cambiasso believes the team must reach no less than the final four to avoid World Cup 2006 disgrace.

Argentina midfielder Esteban Cambiasso believes the team must reach no less than the final four to avoid World Cup 2006 disgrace.

"We know very well that we have a big responsibility because we are representing Argentina," said the Inter Milan star. "Now we have to be intelligent and use these days to rest and recover so that we are in perfect condition for the competition."

"It's very difficult to say which teams are going to be in the final, but what I am sure of is that Argentina are going to reach the semifinals."

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Posted by soccer365 at 09:18 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

(Goal.com) - Paraguayan striker Roque Santa Cruz faces a race against time to be fit for his country's World Cup opener against England after an injury scare at the weekend.

The German-based striker withdrew from his country's first pre-tournament training session in Austria on Saturday complaining of knee trouble. "I suddenly felt some pain. The muscle at the top of the knee went stiff. It wasn't a good feeling," the Bayern striker told Bild am Sonntag.

The 24-year-old has been plagued by injury in his last two campaigns at Bayern but made a comeback towards the end of the season to help the Bavarians to the German league and cup double. He tore a cruciate ligament and sustained a partial tear of the anterior ligament in his right knee while playing against Köln last October. The player will report for a medical in Munich today.

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Posted by soccer365 at 09:16 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

(Goal.com) - Spanish media are reporting that Barcelona are expected to complete a €15 million purchase of striker Diego Forlan from Villarreal this week.

Barca are said to regard the Primera Liga's top scorer in 2004/05 as the ideal replacement for Henrik Larsson, who is returning to his Swedish homeland. Larsson was mainly deployed as back-up to this season's Pichichi, Samuel Eto'o.

Uruguay international Forlan, previously at Manchester United where he struggled to impress, has also attracted interest from Valencia and some Serie A clubs apparently.

But he has been aware of Barca's interest for several months, and is said to prefer a move which enable him to stay in Spain.

Barca are also thought to be ready to negotiate with Villarreal over their 25 per cent share in Juan Roman Riquelme, who is currently on loan at El Madrigal from Cam Nou - in return for a reduction of the €23 million asking price for Forlan's contract.

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Posted by soccer365 at 08:53 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Is there a Cinderella in the house? Or should we look no further than the traditional favorites? Soccer fanatic Heath Young provides the voice of a fan looking foward to Germany 2006.

Brazil, Brazil, Brazil…. There are a few nations that dominate the pre-group press in each World Cup. Every four years we hear our fill of Brazil, Germany, Italy, England (except when they embarrassingly failed to qualify in 1994 of course) and Argentina.

Okay, so Brazil has been in the finals in each of the past three World Cups and has won the coveted trophy five times, twice more than any other nation. Alright, so Germany are the host nation, have three titles of their own and have qualified for all but two ever held. You say Italy do them one better having bullied their way into all but one World Cup finals with the same tally of three titles? Alright already, I see your point. Only seven nations have won the World Cup in its history. It’s an exclusive club, and I see why we spend so much time talking about its members. I’m just as impressed with them as the rest of you. But let’s forget about Brazil for a second and think about this. Italy is 14th in the FIFA world rankings. Germany are 19th and are in the midst of considerable controversy under heir Klinsman. England 10th, have only even made it to the final match once, winning their solitary title in 1966 and are now sans savior Wayne Rooney in all likelihood. These are teams we are talking about as legitimate contenders in this year’s finals?

Why is no one speaking loudly of the Netherlands, Spain or France as truly formidable, despite their respective FIFA rankings of 3, 5 and seven? The legendary van Basten’s Netherlands are led by a core of world class players the likes of van Nistelrooy, Arjen Robben, Phillip Cocu and the stalwart goalkeeping of van der Sar. They were certainly impressive in qualifying as well, with 10 wins and 2 draws, including 2-0 defeat of the Czech Republic. Speaking of the Czech Republic, why is it that football pundits the world over seem to tout their significant attacking prowess and their enviable rank of second in the world, yet such talk fades when the subject goes beyond the end of the group stages? King Koller is certainly accustomed to scoring goals on German soil, considering he does it all the time for Borussia Dortmund. Dare I ask why no one gives either of the major CONCACAF nations a chance, despite the United States and Mexico both receiving spots in the top five?

Is this because the FIFA world rankings are about as useful as sunglasses in Seattle? Well, yes! I don’t think anyone will really disagree with me that the FIFA ranking system is…ahem…slightly flawed. Confidence in the ranking system, or more accurately a lack thereof, to a certain extent explains the fact that these teams are heavyweights in world football on paper, yet are not given much of a chance to be in true contention. But is this justified? Should we really treat these nations that are occupying coveted spots atop the table of international football as bumps in the Autobahn to glory, for the more storied sides? If history is to be our judge, absolutely! With the exception of a few dots on the landscape and the aberration of France winning at home in 1998; Brazil, Germany, Argentina and Italy have not only won the majority of past World Cup competitions, they have occupied both spots in the final match almost 70 percent of the time.

So does that mean that there are no Cinderella stories in the making for this World Cup? Should we all just buy Brazil t-shirts and samba all summer? On the contrary. Senegal and South Korea in 2002, Croatia in 1998, Bulgaria in 1994; World Cup lore is as full of the unlikely as it is the expected, at least up until the semis anyway. Besides, it is the colors of every nation and what happens along the way that makes this competition so special throughout the world. A lot can happen in the group stages to send an unexpected party crasher into the second round. So who is your pick to shock the world in Germany this summer? Hardly World Cup newcomers, but I say watch out for Sweden. More on that later, you tell me yours and I’ll tell you mine.

Posted by Heath Young at 03:50 PM | Permalink | Comments (9)

In World Cup qualifying, Sweden played well and seemed to have little trouble finding the net. Midfielder Fredrik Ljungberg (Arsenal) scored seven times as did powerful striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic (Juventus). Verteran Henrik Larsson (Barcelona) added four more goals.

In Germany, team captain Olof Mellberg (Aston Villa) will anchor the defense while Andreas Isaksson (Rennes), who was quite impressive during qualifying, will provide sure hands between the sticks. In the midfield Tobias Linderoth (Copenhagen) should hold down the center while Christian Wilhelmsson (Anderlecht) handles the right side. Kim Kallstrom (Rennes) often plays an attacking role from the midfield.

The Swedish bench will also be deep. Options include Marcus Allback (Copenhagen), a veteran of the English Premier League and the German Bundesliga, and playmaker Johan Elmander (Brondby). Much of the rest of the team is young and talented. The warm-up games before the tournament may be just what coach Lars Lagerback needs to pull everyone together.

The fate of Sweden this summer is a tough call. They could bomb out in the first round or they could be semi-finalists. The long, distinguished career of Henrik Larsson is winding down and he would love nothing better than to go out with a bang. If he is able to score and his temperamental strike partner Ibrahimovic, who is only 25 years old, can stay focused, the Swedes could go far. This will be Sweden’s eleventh trip to the World Cup Finals. Maybe this will be the time fate smiles upon them.

Posted by SoccerAdmin at 11:07 AM | Permalink | Comments (5)

(Soccer365.com) - The heavily-favored Pachuca did their part, played a defensive game that stymied the home team all night, and came away with a draw that was like a win.

San Luis 0 – 0 Pachuca

Pachuca came into San Luis and managed to leave unscathed as neither side could affect the scoreboard, making for a very interesting rematch Sunday with the Tuzos having a clear advantage.

The game started as expected: San Luis came out attacking, while the Tuzos stood firm in the rear, but doing little up front.

Pachuca seemed to miss Nelson Cuevas, called up by Paraguay for the World Cup, as Richard Nuñez had no one from the left side to find Chitiva and Landin.

The home team’s midfield was suffocating, between Alvaro Ortiz and Octavio Valdez, they seemed to win every battle, take every ball away, and pressured Miguel Calero’s goal.

Angel Reyna, who had scored two goals in the postseason, was held in check most of the night.

In the second half, Pachuca took control of the ball. Scoring chances were few and far between, as the field got drenched with rain.

The home team had a good opportunity in the 57th when Israel Martinez had a good look from the left side, but his shot went wide right.

Eight minutes later, Pachuca’s best chance fizzled as the Fernando Salazar free kick hit goalkeeper Adrian Martinez’s left leg.

Raul Arias’s second half substitutions of Emilio Mora and Ariel Gonzalez proved fruitless.

For the first time this liguilla, the miracle San Luis team is against the ropes, forced to win in hostile territory against a hotly favored opponent, though this time it’s for the ultimate prize—the championship trophy.

Reactions

Pachuca:

Defender, Leobardo Lopez: “Today we were a team that was organized, focused, and most importantly, we kept the zero.”

Striker, Luis Angel Landin: “The 0-0 is a good result but it’s not an advantage, because San Luis is a capable team, and worthy of this final.”

Coach, Jose Luis Trejo: “Everything remains equal. All the possibilities are the same for both teams. The 0-0 is not an advantage for us because there could be equal pressure and San Luis’s game could be different. I think we had the better scoring opportunities. They got there little and in a tight game like this, we had to control them, for they were looking to score.”

San Luis:

Striker, Angel Reyna: “They came to shut us down, to get the zero.”

Center back, Adrian Garcia Arias: “They came to play their game, to look for an error in the back, and they had two chances to score and did not make them.”

Coach, Raul Arias: “We lacked aggressiveness, for the team had rebounds, headers and strikes that never made it to the goal area.”

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Posted by soccer365 at 10:27 AM | Permalink | Comments (10)

(Soccer365.com) - Czech star Pavel Nedved contemplates hanging up his cleats, again.

Pavel Nedved admits he may join Zinedine Zidane in retiring from all football after the World Cup.

The Czech Republic playmaker, whose team face Italy, USA and Ghana in Group E next month, has come out of international retirement once and is now considering whether to stop playing altogether. France and Real Madrid midfielder Zidane has already committed to ending his playing career after the finals in Germany.

Nedved, who plays for Serie A champions Juventus, said: "I do not have much of a future in front of me and I wanted to end (playing football) in the summer."

He added: "I will wait and see. I want to fully concentrate on the World Cup, play good soccer, then anything may happen.

"I have a number of options, and retirement is one of them. I will be 34 in the summer (in August) and I will see what motivation I will have to play."

Nedved is not getting carried away by a wave of optimism in his homeland as the Czech Republic approach their first finals since separating from Czechoslovakia.

"Maybe the fans think we can win it, but I do not know whether such optimism is the right thing. We have to be realists," he said.

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Posted by soccer365 at 10:24 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)

(Goal.com) - Arsenal have called a media conference for 1400 BST - where it is expected they will announce that Thierry Henry has signed a new four-year deal with the North London Premiership club.

Henry, 28, had one year left on his existing contract and was widely tiped throughout the media to move to Barcelona.

However, following he Champions League final he told The Sun: "I hope to stay as long as I can keep running. I couldn't leave the fans."

The Press Association then quoted an Arsenal source as saying: "There are just one or two things left to finalise."

Although Henry had tipped to leave after the Champions League final, probably to Arsenal's victorious opponents, he dropped a hint that his future would take a different course when he criticised Barca immediately after the game, accusing some of their players of kicking him and others of diving.

Then on Friday he said: "I love Barcelona, but on Wednesday Arsenal showed they had heart. I hope to finalise details today (Friday)."

Henry joined from Juventus in August 1999 and has become the club's record goalscorer with his tally currently at 214.

He was recently voted Football Writers' Association player of the year for the third time, and in his acceptance speech, he said that he now considered London his home.

On the flight back from Arsenal's Champions League final defeat in Paris, he is reported to have told passengers "we will come back next year."

His decision to stay will be a massive shot in the arm for the club, who will open the new season in their bran new Emirates Stadium after outgrowing Highbury, their home since 1913.

It will also be a huge boost for Arsenal fans, and for manager Arsene Wenger, and will help soften the blow of losing Dennis Bergkamp, who is retiring after 11 years at Highbury.

Arsenal goalkeeping legend Bob Wilson told BBC Radio Five Live: "I was very confident he would stay and just thrilled, as all fans will be.

"We are still a bit edgy and miserable but it's a fantastic boost for the fans."

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For the twin-island nation of Trinidad and Tobago, a Nov. 16 victory over Bahrain in Manama secured them the last spot in this year’s Cup. Minutes after the final whistle, fans back on the islands erupted into the streets waving red, black and white flags, singing, dancing, cheering and crying.

This marked the Soca Warriors’ first trip to the World Cup finals thanks to coach, and now hero, Leo Beenhakker. To celebrate, the government declared the following day a public holiday, and fans had the opportunity to revel some more, greeting players at the airport as they arrived home. Even as the smallest nation in the Cup, with a population of only 1.1 million, T&T is expected to ruffle a few feathers in this tournament.

The team’s leader is 34-year-old Dwight Yorke (Sydney FC), noted as the country’s best-ever player. Yorke has played for three English Premiership clubs, including Manchester United, and Man U coach Alex Ferguson considers him a “natural killer.” Still in excellent shape, the veteran striker will finally make his first World Cup appearance and is determined not to go down without a fight.

Following behind Yorke is Stern John (Coventry City). Affectionately known as Bravo, this strong forward scored 12 goals in qualifying. Now playing in England’s second division, John also is an MLS veteran.

An interesting player to watch on the pitch will be 37-year-old Russell Latapy (Falkirk). He will serve as the only player/coach in Germany, and is apparently only on the national team because Yorke adamantly insisted. A former star in Portugal’s Superliga, Latapy provides his team with experienced leadership and guidance.

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(Soccer365.com) - Soca Warriors not worrying about England yet.

Trinidad and Tobago National head coach Leo Beenhakker and the members of his World Cup squad met face to face with the media on Wednesday at Carden Park and the clear message being issued by the Dutchman and Dwight Yorke was that the main focus of the “Soca Warriors” was their next competitive match and as such the current issue is not how to play the English on June 15.

Beenhakker conducted a light session in the morning which allowed a vast number of media correspondents to view the team in motion and then a media conference transpired smoothly for about half hour before the entire squad was given the chance to be interviewed by several television stations such as ITV, BBC, Granada Sports, Daily Mail, News of the World and other UK companies. The “Soca Warriors” were easily hounded for no less than 90 minutes as Yorke was the last player to depart the mix zone area before heading back to his room.

Having already put a cap on the amount of open days for media related activities, Benhakker seemed undisturbed by the persistent reporters on hand.

“We are always focused on the next game. The most important match in their careers is always the next game. We will be professional and we will prepare for all of them. We will think about England after we play Sweden,” Beenhakker said when asked about how his team will prepare to play England in Nuremburg.

He also stressed that he will not take a T&T team into the World Cup that is under any pressure and while he has all intentions of ensuring they are totally focused and prepared, he will not prevent Yorke and company from enjoying the experience.

“In general I said you can’t play football if you don’t enjoy it. I don’t like to see players stressed. We played a lot of games with a lot of responsibility and pressure and you can see that in our last three matches (qualifiers). The amazing thing in football is that when you cannot handle the pressure, then you can’t handle the game at this level. It has to be a healthy kind of pressure and they have all assured me that they can handle it very well. We will talk a lot and prepare perfectly in everyway. My last message will be before they go on the pitch will be to enjoy it and have fun,” Beenhakker said.

He informed the audience of mostly English,Scottish, Welsh and Swedish media that the Caribbean mentality is one of trying to enjoy experiences to the max.

“It’s confirmed in the Caribbean because one of our biggest fans said before we left the Caribbean “Ole, ole, ole and that’s the way we are going to play. I am impressed and if you see Ronaldinho, he’s always laughing at the same time. He is fighting for his team but he hates losing and he stays relax,” the former Real Madrid boss said as he referred to the line from President George Maxwell Richards at the team’s farewell dinner at the Dr Joao Havelange Centre of Excellence last Friday, causing an eruption of laughter from the players. His closing statements ensured a bit of warm Caribbean feeling at what has been a chilly Carden Park experience this week.

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(Soccer365.com) - Arsenal striker Thierry Henry lashed out at referee Terje Hauge following the Gunners Champions League loss to Spanish Champs, Barcelona.

Arsenal striker Thierry Henry accused referee Terje Hauge of favouring Barcelona after the Gunners lost the Champions League final 2-1 to the Primera Liga side.

An emotional Henry claimed the official ignored a series of challenges on him and insisted Arsenal had "made ourselves proud".

He told Sky Sports 1: "I don't know if the referee had a Barcelona shirt on because they kicked me all over the place.

"Maybe next time I'll learn how to dive. I expect the referee to do his job but I don't think he did."

Henry said: "Henrik Larsson was the difference but I didn't see Ronaldinho and I didn't see Eto'o.

"So many times (Carles) Puyol should have got a yellow card, so many times (Rafael) Marquez came from behind to take my ankles.

"We made ourselves proud."

Arsenal midfielder Freddie Ljungberg said on ITV1: "They had a lot of possession but we were leading until the 76th minute. We could have won it, this is hard for us.

"They are a great side but I felt we controlled it quite well; unfortunately they got the goals."

Henry added on ITV1: "I've been told that the first goal (by Eto'o) was offside. They are already a good team, so if you help them, it is going to be very difficult to beat them."

The Frenchman had a chance to finish Barca off when Alexander Hleb played him in but his low shot was easily saved by Victor Valdes.

"I had nothing in my legs, nothing whatsoever," he said.

"No disrespect to Barcelona, I feel we played better than them when it was 11 against 11.

"We can be proud, we can be more than proud but I'm sorry, some of the refereeing today was horrendous."

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger admitted he will now try to convince Henry that his future is at the club.

"I do not know how difficult it will be [to keep Henry] but we will try to do it. It is not in my hands. It is Thierry's hands."

He added on Sky Sports 1: "I felt we played a great game and gave everything. We had a few chances in the last 20 minutes but it was difficult.

"I also felt their first goal was offside."

Asked how much the referee influenced the match, Wenger added: "A lot. We have lost it and it is difficult to take. This team have been fantastic today and right through the European season.

"I knew we could hang on and I knew nerves would play a part in their game. They did not look especially dangerous.

"But we will do it again and I believe the team is growing a lot after this season.

"We have plenty of good young players who have contributed a lot.

"This team are strong. Sometimes you can come back even stronger."

Lehmann understood the referee's decision to send him off rather than letting play unfold.

"He could have given advantage to Barcelona but the referee had to make a very quick decision and it is difficult for refs to make the right decisions," the German said.

"It was fantastic (watching from the bench) until the first goal of Barcelona. We've done very well and fought fantastically, it was a great achievement from the team to play 10 against 11 against a good side.

"But unfortunately I think their first goal was offside. We had a referee in the final who makes two decisions against us."

Asked whether a referee who operates weekly in the Norwegian league should be officiating the Champions League final, Lehmann told Sky Sports: "We have lost and it's over but everybody has to learn out of everything.

"Barcelona have the capability to play quickly, so we should have taken a guy who is used to this pace."

Lehmann added on German TV station Sat 1: "You don't play in those kind of games very often and to have an ending like this is very tragic. It feels tough.

"In football you make mistakes and then you get punished for them. We played great with 10 men and it is a pity that it did not go well for me.

"What really makes me sad it that the equaliser was an offside goal. If the referee had been a bit more alert, we would have maybe won 1-0.

"I expected him to send me off but I immediately thought it was not all over as we could have won the game with 10 men.

"I cannot look ahead (to the World Cup) right now. Now is the time to be sad."

Ashley Cole was more philosophical in defeat than some of his team-mates, and told Sky Sports: "We lost the game but it's not worth moaning about the offside, it's finished, we have to get on with it. The lads deserve credit, they've chipped in and done well as a team."

England team-mate Campbell, whose goal looked set to be the winner until the final 14 minutes, said: "Losing Jens so early on is going to cause problems but we battled well.

"A few decisions went against us but you just have to keep going. We've done well this season, it's a shame we couldn't just finish off the game.

"We passed the ball well, they're a great team and passed it around well too but we had a couple of chances where if it goes our way they're dead and buried."

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Posted by soccer365 at 12:30 PM | Permalink | Comments (15)

(Soccer365.com) - Team captain, Spaniard Carlos Puyol praised his coach following the comeback win over Arsenal in the Champions League final in Paris Wednesday night.

Carles Puyol heaped praise on Barcelona coach Frank Rijkaard following the club's Champions League success over Arsenal on Wednesday night.

Rijkaard's men fell behind to Sol Campbell's first-half header but late goals from Samuel Eto'o and substitute Juliano Belletti handed the Catalan giants Europe's top prize.

"Rijkaard is a great manager and we are very fortunate to have him with us," said Puyol. "He doesn't speak much but he certainly gets his message across and has very clear ideas."

He added: "Before the game he told us that it wasn't going to be easy to beat Arsenal and he was right.

"Arsenal have proved what a great defensive team they are and it has been difficult.

"Rijkaard also told us that having worked so hard to get to the final, we should enjoy the moment, give everything that we had and show what we are capable of doing."

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Posted by soccer365 at 12:28 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

(Soccer365.com) - Rafael Marquez continues to climb new heights in Europe.

Mexican defenseman, Rafael Marquez has once more gone where no Mexican player has gone before: A European Championship.

Without fully digesting the victory which made him a European champion with Barcelona, Marquez said his title would have a special dedication to his to his family, for this was an important accomplishment in his career.

“I dedicate this to my parents, my children, to my father who is up there,” said Marquez. “I still don’t believe it, something I didn’t imagine, thanks to this team and this institution who gave me the opportunity and now I’ve gotten something important.”

Moreover, the Mexican national stated that with the Champions League victory, Barcelona is the best team on the planet. “I think yes, Barcelona’s the best team. We’ve worked hard for it and truth is we have confirmed it.”

Though he has not gotten the five Spanish championships, the five scoring titles and a UEFA Cup, Marquez did something the best Mexican player of all time never did: win the Champions League title.

The Zamora, Michoacán native denied that his Champions League victory put him above Hugo Sanchez, who shined for many years with Barça nemesis, Real Madrid. “No, I think that each us have done our own, our jobs, our eras, they were different situations. He’ll be acknowledged for what he did and I will be for what I do.”

Like Sanchez, however, Marquez is mirroring the ‘penta pichichi in some areas:

In 1986 Hugo helped Real Madrid win the Spanish League and then was the first Mexican to play in a European tournament, the UEFA Cup, which the merengues won 5-3 over Kholn; from there he went on to play in his second World Cup.

In 2006, Marquez helped Barcelona win their 18th La Liga title, then went on to become the first Mexican to reach a Champions League final, then the first to win it as they beat Arsenal 2-1; and next month he’ll play his second World Cup.

Rafa added that he was not certain when he would join the Mexican national team for their World Cup preparations, only that he would rest a few days. About his health, he said he is fine, as he is constantly seeing doctors.

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Posted by soccer365 at 10:08 AM | Permalink | Comments (11)

(Goal.com) - Match-winner Belletti admitted that scoring was the last thing on his mind before the match, while Valdes thanked Rijkaard for showing confidence in him.

Juliano Belletti scored the match-winner with nine minutes to go on the clock. As expected, he couldn't stop gushing.

"This team deserved this big win. It wasn't easy to get here. This afternoon, when we were still back at the hotel, I thought that this was the kind of game every player dreams of appearing in.

"When I scored the goal, the first thing I thought about was my son. In the Champions League, a right back doesnt normally get to score.

"More than my goal, I would like to remember the job the team did as a whole."

Barcelona had a few key saves from Victor Valdes to thank, for keeping them in the contest. The stopper thanked Rijkaard.

"If it hadn't been for the boss I wouldn't have been playing in this final. It has been a difficult season but he has put his faith in me since the first minute and I'll be eternally grateful for that.

"Game by game, we have had two great seasons and we have proved that we have a very good young side.

"My saves from Henry? They're all part of football.

"Both their goalkeepers had good games, but luckily we have a lot of quality up front and were able to score."

Midfielder Deco, the only Barcelona player to have won the trophy before, gave his take.

"It was a difficult game, but in the space of five minutes we were rewarded for fighting hard and believing in ourselves.

"Today we have shown that in football, a game can be decided in just five minutes."

Former Monaco forward Giuly, the only other Barca player to have played in a Champions League final, could not be separated from his son throughout the celebrations.

"It was an exceptional final. We played a great game."

"I celebrated it with my son because it was such an important moment for me. I dedicate it to my family."

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Posted by soccer365 at 09:14 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)

(Goal.com) - Apart from his own Barcelona team-mates, Celtic were the main beneficiaries of substitute Henrik Larsson's decisive contribution to Wednesday night's Champions League final.

The Swedish international came on for Mark van Bommel and set up the two goals that hauled Barca off the ropes and on to the winners' podium in a dramatic 2-1 victory over brave 10-man Arsenal.

And as a result of Barca's win, Celtic will go directly into the group stages of next season's Champions League.

Former Bhoys' striker Larsson, 34, already assured of legendary status in Glasgow's East End because of his prolific goalscoring exploits in the green-and-white hoops, once again delighted Celtic followers with his indirect intervention on their behalf.

The Gunners, who finished fourth in the Premiership, will now take part in the third qualifying round of next season's Champions League.

As Scottish champions, Celtic would have faced a qualifier if Arsenal had won the Cup.

And the Glasgow club received further good news this week with confirmation that they will be in Pot 2 for next season's draw.

Ironically, however, Larsson admitted that he had not realised a Barcelona triumph would help his former club.

"I didn't know that," he told BBC Sport. "Celtic is always a club in my heart - so I am happy that we could both enjoy the evening, that we won and that they could go through."

Larsson joined Celtic in 1997 and scored a phenomenal 242 goals in 315 matches during his seven-year spell at the club.

He moved to Barcelona in 2004 but is leaving the back-to-back Primera Liga champions at the end of the current campaign to return to his hometown club Helsingborg in Sweden.

Before then though, he will be representing his country at this Summer's World Cup in Germany.

Larsson came off the bench in the 61st-minute of the Champions League final, with Arsenal leading 1-0.

He then produced an astute pass to set up Samuel Eto'o for the equaliser, before laying on the pass for Juliano Belletti to hit the winner.

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Posted by soccer365 at 09:12 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

(Soccer365.com) - Newcastle ace Michael Owen is ready to play in Germany '06.

Michael Owen has declared himself fit for England's bid for World Cup glory and insisted: "If there was a game tomorrow I'd be ready to play."

Owen has dispelled any lingering doubts he would be ready for the tournament in Germany following his broken metatarsal in a clash with Tottenham keeper Paul Robinson five months ago.

The Newcastle striker has looked sharp during England's current week-long training camp in Portugal despite being confined to only half an hour's action - as a substitute against Birmingham last month - since the setback at White Hart Lane.

It is a massive lift for Sven-Goran Eriksson who is still sweating over the fitness of his other main predator up front in Wayne Rooney who is battling to overcome a similar problem.

Owen is aware of all the hype that has surrounded his injury but has remained optimistic of being ready to face Paraguay in England's World Cup opener next month.

Owen said: "I'm feeling fine - and I have been fine for quite a while now. I have been training since the season finished, I have been training with no problems for a while now and I am excited about the World Cup.

"We have three games to look forward to before we go to Germany but there are no doubts at all in my mind about being fit for the first game with Paraguay, no doubts at all.

"If there was a World Cup game tomorrow, I'd be in a fit condition to play. I feel fresh and raring to go.

"Maybe I have played fewer games than ideal going into the World Cup but before the last one everyone was saying we had played too many games."

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Posted by soccer365 at 09:09 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Barcelona overtook a 10-man Arsenal squad with two late second half strikes to become European club Champions, 2-1.

Arsenal keeper Jens Lehmann was sent off at the 17th minute after grabbing Samuel Eto'o outside the box during a breakaway chance. The shorthanded Gunners responded with a superb set piece goal by Sol Campbell to go up 1-nil in the 37th minute.

The London side valiantly held their lead until the 76th, when Eto'o beat reserve 'keeper Manuel Almunia near side. Barcelona then poured on the pressure and Arsenal crumbled under fatigue. Five minutes later, reserve Juliano Belletti's strike went through Alumnia's legs for the winner.

The pre-game spotlight stars, Ronaldinho and Henry, both had chances to make their mark on the final tally, but neither one could find the net. Arsenal played well with 10 men, but ran out of steam at the end. Overall, Eto'o's speed was the game's biggest factor, as the Cameroon international notched a goal and also drew the red card on Lehmann that changed the rest of the night in Barcelona's favor.

Image: Getty Images Sport by: Mike Hewitt

Posted by SoccerAdmin at 04:48 PM | Permalink | Comments (29)

We’ve all heard it a million times: “England won the World Cup in 1966.” Yeah, well, what have they done in the past 40 years? Answer: consistently underachieved. Is this the year? Can England overcome historical pressure and injury concerns to break through to the title?

In all fairness, England has played some outstanding games in recent years, but in big tournaments they seem to fall apart at crucial moments (examples: vs. Argentina in 1998 and Brazil in 2002).

England continues to produce some of the greatest players in the history of the game so there is no denying the amount of talent available to coach Seven-Goran Eriksson. Individual talent doesn’t make a great team, however, and Eriksson has the tough job of pulling together a squad that really "clicks."

Much will rest on the shoulders of superstar midfield playmaker David Beckham (Real Madrid). Sure, Beckham gets lots of press for things not related to soccer but let’s face it, the guy is good. Real good. He’s the team captain and he can handle pressure and adapt his game to any situation.

But the real key to the team depends the health of gifted young forward Wayne Rooney (Manchester United). Is it possible for Rooney to make a miraculous return from a foot injury, only time will tell. England also have Michael Owen (Newcastle) out front, but their other strikers are young and untested in such an monumental international environment.

Joining Beckham in the midfield look for Frank Lampard (Chelsea), third in voting for 2005 FIFA World Player of the Year, and the lion-hearted Steven Gerrard (Liverpool). John Terry (Chelsea) is establishing himself as a true world-class player on the back line.

Whether or not Rooney makes a triumphant return, England must now turn to the task at hand. If the nation hopes to win another World Cup this could be their best shot for quite some time.

Posted by SoccerAdmin at 01:09 PM | Permalink | Comments (26)

(Goal.com) - Arsene Wenger insists his side are representing English football in tonight's Champions League final with Barcelona.

Wenger has been criticised as his team of foriegn players have made their way to the final of the Champions League, although two of his English players, Sol Campbell and Ashley Cole, are expected to start tonight.

The Gunners midfielder Robert Pires even went as far to call Arsenal a French side earlier this season, but Wenger insists he is proud of his English connections.

Wenger said: "I am proud for the English Premiership. I have been accepted in England and have lived there for 10 years. I feel very proud to represent English football.

"It would be pretentious to say we represent England but we represent English football and the Premiership and I am very proud of that."

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(Soccer365.com) - Schalke 04 striker Kevin Kuranyi admits he is having a bit of trouble dealing with the fact that he was not named to Jürgen Klinsmann’s Germany squad for World Cup.

"I'm completely speechless, deeply disappointed and am sure I'll have several sleepless nights," he moaned. "I'm continually asking myself the question 'Why me?'"

"I know that I haven't had a great season and that my 10 goals aren't exactly a real eye-opener, but I've continued to develop this year."

"I proved my ability once again in the Champions League and scored plenty of goals for Germany at the start of Jurgen Klinsmann's reign," argued Kuranyi, who did make the alternates list.

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Posted by soccer365 at 12:52 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

(Goal.com) - The current England manager, Sven Goran Eriksson, has categorically denied that there have been any contacts made between his agent and the Da Luz Encarnados about a hypothetical return to Benfica that’d see the Swede taking over from new PSV boss Ronald Koeman.

"I’ve also heard the rumours” the Coach admitted “but I’ve not heard a thing from Benfica about an offer. Then again, anything’s possible", explained the tactician to a pres conference given in the Algarve’s Vale do Lobo – England’s home base before the assault on the World Cup in Germany.

Eriksson spoke fondly of his past at Benfica, but made it clear that he wasn’t one for multitasking. “The important thing right now is to talk about the England squad’s preparations for the World Cup” explained the man who coached Benfica twice (1982-1984 and 1989-1992) conquering 3 Superligas (1983, 1984 and 1991) and a Taça de Portugal (Portuguese Cup) in 1983.

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(Soccer365.com) - Fiorentina have made netminder Sebatien Frey’s move from Parma permanent with a €5 million transfer fee payment.

The Frenchman missed significant time during a short loan spell, but will probably be the man between the sticks when they play Champions League football next season.

"I was really sorry for the injury suffered in the middle of the season," said the keeper, who is now tied to the club through 2011.

"Here in Florence, there immediately was a fantastic home."

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Posted by soccer365 at 12:50 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

(Goal.com) - England coach Sven-Goran Eriksson has hinted using Liverpool's Steven Gerrard as a second striker if Wayne Rooney fails to recover from his broken foot in time for the World Cup finals, which begin next month.

England have been looking for a 'plan B' since the Manchester United star suffered the injury in a Premiership match with Chelsea and it appears Gerrard will be pushed forward to compensate for Rooney's loss.

"Steven Gerrard can play in a lot of positions and one is as a second striker," said the Swede.

"I'm sure he could play as first striker but a lot depends on Rooney."

Eriksson added: "I have known for many years that Gerrard can play in a lot of positions.

"We haven't decided yet but he's useful wherever he plays. After 25 May we will know much better what's happening with Wayne Rooney.

"I hope we play with Wayne Rooney and Michael Owen but once again Steven Gerrard is an option there."

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Posted by soccer365 at 12:48 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)

For a team that has suffered from disappointing performances along the way, Paraguay is hoping that the third time truly is a charm. The Albirroja will be making their third World Cup appearance since Mexico ’86, drawing on an anti-climactic past as they push forward toward a future with more promising results.

Fans should be able to count on an impressive performance by Nelson Valdez (Werder Bremen), one of the brightest young talents in South America. His outstanding four years in the German Bundesliga have earned him praise as one of the league’s best strikers, while securing him with a starting spot on Paraguay’s team. Though only 22 years old, Valdez seems able to carry the weight on his shoulders to help his side succeed in Germany.

Captain Carlos Gamarra (Palmeiras) never fails as a strong leader, but his inconsistency in tackling rarely earns him the respect he deserves. However, "El Colorado” is a veteran of two World Cups and has played in seven different countries during the course of his career, exposing him to a wide range of play and skills. He should be sure to make an impact.

While not as successful in past World Cup finals as they would have hoped, Paraguay has had some important triumphs worth noting. The squad tends to do well in the Copa America, Latin America's most important soccer tournament. They have frequented the runner-up spot and have won the Cup twice (1953 and 1979). Most recently, Paraguay took home the silver medal in men's soccer at the 2004 Olympic Games, the first ever Olympic medal in the nation's history.

This summer, the team will rely on their strong teamwork and recent consistency to become a threat in Germany.

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(Soccer365.com) - Luis Fernando Tena, who guided Jaguares to the playoffs this season, will head the Eagles next season.

Club America announced that Luis Fernando Tena will coach the team for the Apertura ’06 tournament, which kicks off in August.

“El Flaco” Tena will take over the helm from Manuel Lapuente, who will resume his duties as a team executive.
For the past two seasons, Tena has coached the Chiapas Jaguares, leading them to the second best record in the regular season, before being eliminated by Chivas in the playoffs.

Tena made his coaching debut in 1994 with Cruz Azul, which he has coached on three occasions. He has also coached UAG Tecos, Morelia, Santos before Jaguares.

As a coach he has two championships, with Cruz Azul in the Invierno 1997 and Morelia in Invierno 2000.
The Clausura ’05 champion, Club America failed to qualify for the postseason in this year’s first half tournament, Clausura ’06.

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(Soccer365.com) - Barcelona midfield engine Deco has offered his opinion that Champions League opponent Arsenal play the most attractive football in the United Kingdom.

Barcelona midfield engine Deco has offered his opinion that Champions League opponent Arsenal play the most attractive football in the United Kingdom.

"For me, Arsenal play the best football of all the English teams I've seen in recent years," he told The Independent.

"You could perhaps take out the last two seasons where they have been rebuilding their side, but I think they have remained the best footballing side in England.

Concluded Deco: "I hope it will be a game where two great sides are going all out for victory."

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(Soccer365.com) - Demichells was shocked to learn he would not be on Pekerman's Argentina World Cup squad.

Bayern Munich midfielder Martin Demichelis was utterly distraught upon learning that he missed out on a trip to World Cup 2006 with Argentina.

The versatile player enjoyed a very strong Bundesliga season, and was stunned with the rejection.

"The coach gave me a phone call before announcing the list in Argentina," he told Estudio Futbol. "I am out, and with his decision, I feel that I don't want to play nor live anymore."

"Since I found out, I don't have the will to dedicate myself to football," continued an emotional Demichelis. "Now I don't want to do anything else, I don't even want to travel anywhere."

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(Soccer365.com) - Red Fury wingman Albelda was shocked by his teammate's omission from the Germany '06 squad.

Spain midfielder David Albelda was taken aback by Luis Aragones decision to leave Valencia teammate Ruben Baraja out of the World Cup selection.

Baraja has played 38 times for his country, and performed superbly at the 2002 edition.

"It's very strange," he told El Mundo. "Luis is the one who decides and he will have his reasons, but it leaves a bad taste in my mouth that Ruben won't be going because he deserves to go to this World Cup."

"He's got more caps that all the other midfielders and his absence is the one that has most surprised me."

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(Soccer365.com) - Portugal coach Luiz Felipe Scolari says he is counting on veteran attacker Luis Figo to lead the squad at next month’s World Cup.

Portugal coach Luiz Felipe Scolari says he is counting on veteran attacker Luis Figo to lead the squad at next month’s World Cup.

A member of the nation’s “Golden Generation”, the Inter Milan man is being charged with showing the way to victory.

"He's one of our mainstays, not only because of how he plays, but also because of what he represents and the way he worries opponents," said Big Phil.

"Off the field, he offers his experience to the other players and helps ease younger players into the side."

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(Soccer365.com) - Italy names World Cup '06 Roster.

Italian National Team head coach Marcello Lippi named his 23-man roster for the 2006 FIFA World Cup in Germany. Included in the Azzuri squad are Juventus goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon, Roma captain Francesco Totti, AC Milan's Fillipo Inzaghi and Juventus forward Alessandro Del Piero.

The Italian squad will be based in Duisburg and train at Bundesliga club MSV Duisburg. Italy kicks off their World Cup campaign against Ghana on June 12, before facing the United States on June 17 and finishing group play against the Czech Republic on June 22.

Italy 2006 FIFA World Cup Roster

GOALKEEPERS: Gianluigi Buffon (Juventus), Angelo Peruzzi (Lazio), Marco Amelia (Livorno)

DEFENDERS: Massimo Oddo (Lazio), Cristian Zaccardo (Palermo), Marco Materazzi (Inter Milan), Andrea Barzagli (Palermo), Alessandro Nesta (AC Milan), Fabio Cannavaro (Juventus), Gianluca Zambrotta (Juventus), Fabio Grosso (Palermo)

MIDFIELDERS: Mauro Camoranesi (Juventus), Gennaro Gattuso (AC Milan), Andrea Pirlo (AC Milan), Simone Perrotta (Roma), Daniele De Rossi (Roma), Simone Barone (Palermo), Francesco Totti (Roma)

FORWARDS: Luca Toni (Fiorentina), Alberto Gilardino (AC Milan), Filippo Inzaghi (AC Milan), Alessandro Del Piero (Juventus), Vincenzo Iaquinta (Udinese)

Press Release courtesy of www.ussoccer.com

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(Soccer365.com) - Ticos' main weapon, Paulo Wanchope assures his team his ready to for the Germany challenge.

Veteran Costa Rica goal poacher Paulo Wanchope has declared that the CONCACAF underdogs will dive headfirst into group play in search of victories.

"Many of us have a lot of experience in international play," he asserted. "We are going to search for points from the first game against Germany."

"It doesn’t matter who we’re playing," Wanchope said of opening against the esteemed hosts. "We have to find the maximum points to advance."

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Posted by soccer365 at 11:51 AM | Permalink | Comments (3)

(Goal.com) - FC Barcelona and Arsenal both have something to prove when they meet in the Champions League final on Wednesday in a game that will showcase the world's two best players.

BACKGROUND

For a club with the magnitude of Barça to have won the game's greatest club competition just once is an enigma, while the Gunners' inability to reach this stage before now has been equally baffling.

Although the Catalan giants have indeed been to four previous finals, only two of the club's current squad, Deco and Ludovic Giuly, have experience of such an occasion leaving Barça’s collection of world stars on a similar footing to Arsenal.

Arsené Wenger's side have been involved in the race for the title virtually every year since the Frenchman took the Highbury reins, but their success in Europe has arrived in a campaign where they have failed to impress on the domestic front.

At Camp Nou, Barcelona endured six seasons without winning any silverware before claiming the title last season and their success in La Primera has, in fact, coincided with their dominating form in Europe.

The focus of the final has fallen heavily on the team's two outstanding players, as Ronaldinho and Thierry Henry have hogged the limelight, despite strenuous attempts by both men to shun the attention.

Talk in both camps is how the game will not be a duel between the winner and runner-up of the FIFA World Player of the Year award, but the attention was inevitable.

While the Brazilian is revelling at Barça, the Frenchman has not helped matters by refusing to refute reports that he is set to join the Gunners' opponents in the final during the summer.

Every interview on television, radio and in print has eventually turned to the prospect of the pair playing together at Barça next season and the exasperation at both clubs has become evident.

The 'will he, won't he' scenario is likely to be unaltered by the result in the Stade de France on Wednesday evening as Henry recognises the potential at Arsenal as much as the temptation of playing for Barcelona.

In Barcelona the mood is confident, but by no means arrogant, as everyone connected to the club believes that after so many barren years they finally have a team on their hands capable of being crowned as Europe's best.

Frank Rijkaard has introduced a system that has won plaudits across the globe for its focus on attack and in Ronaldinho, Deco, Giuly, Henrik Larsson and Samuel Eto'o he has the perfect players to compliment the tactics.

Whenever Barça's performances are analysed the focus usually turns to the incredible speed, technique and movement of when the team gains possession and looks goalwards.

But Rijkaard has learned the hard way that a strong defence is the key to success on the continental stage.

After being eliminated from the Champions League in a dramatic night against Chelsea last season, both the coach and the players at Barcelona came of age.

This term the Catalan side have shown a maturity and understanding that has seen them concede only 32 goals in 37 league outings and just four in 12 European matches.

That is the problem that faces an Arsenal side that have also enjoyed incredible success in reaching the final based on a solid defensive unit and a fast counter-attack.

The Gunners, just like their opponents, have some of the most technically gifted players on offer that can pass the ball fluidly and at pace when moving forward, but their main tactic is the breakaway.

League form has caused some consternation as the club were forced to wait until the final day to ensure that they would be playing in the Champions League next term, but the physical nature of the English league has been highlighted as the reason for their struggle.

Wenger has incorporated players that are accustomed to the continental game and are still learning the ropes amid the sometimes unforgiving midfield battles that rage in the Premiership.

Against European opposition his playmakers have come to the fore as they are given time and space to express themselves and that is why the final promises to be such an attractive occasion.

The team’s success has also been built on a solid defence and a goalkeeper that is enjoying one of the best seasons of his career.

Jens Lehmann was the semi final hero, with his last gasp penalty save, but it is also his back four that have grown together throughout a season that has seen them mould into one of the tightest units in Europe.

A run of ten games without conceding has come about, in the elimination rounds at least, thanks to defending in numbers and then launching attacks quickly from the back.

TEAM NEWS

FC Barcelona: Lionel Messi has been given the green light by doctors to play in the final and the news has boosted morale even further among the squad. The diminutive Argentinian is a favourite among the players and even if he does not appear after two months out with a thigh injury, his presence will be crucial.

Andrés Iniesta is set to be given the nod ahead of Xavi Hernández, as the youngster has been outstanding after stepping into the team while the latter recoveredfrom a knee ligament injury.

Rijkaard is likely to opt for his defence-minded full-backs and play Oleguer on the right and Gio Van Bronkhorst on the left, with Juliano Belletti and Sylvinho waiting on the bench.

Henrik Larsson's final appearance in a Barça shirt is likely to start from the sidelines with Ludovic Giuly looking set to be named on the right of the three-pronged attack. The Barça coach rested the majority of his first choice team for the 3-2 defeat against Sevilla at the weekend and so has no crucial injury worries.

Arsenal: Wenger has two big decisions to make for his starting line-up as Mathieu Flamini and Philippe Senderos have been declared fit for the final. The French manager is wary that the duo may not be match-ready and able to begin the most important game in the history of the London club. Instead, Sol Campbell will remain in the centre of defence alongside Kolo Touré, while Ashley Cole will be named at left-back.

Gilberto Silva will sit behind a midfield quartet that is likely to be made up of Alaixandr Hleb on the left, José Antonio Reyes on the right and Cesc Fabregas and Freddie Ljungberg in the middle, leaving Henry as the lone striker

With choices to be made across the centre of the park, Wenger will use Robert Pires as a substitute who can come and change the forward thrust of the Gunners if indeed he is required.

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Deco (FC Barcelona): While all eyes will be on Ronaldinho whenever the Brazilian magician receives the ball, a crucial element of the match will be which side wins the midfield. In Deco the Catalan side have a player that can keep possession, make a crucial pass and embark on runs that usually end in a shot or him being fouled somewhere within Ronaldinho's free-kick range.

The Portugal international has been here before and knows what it takes to win a game under such pressure and could be crucial both going forward and tracking back.

Cesc Fabregas (Arsenal): The Catalan youngster has also received his fair share of attention in the build-up as he has been praised for his performances this season and now he must show that he can play on game’s biggest stage. Cesc’s maturity and confidence has won him many fans, but very little of it all has gone to the player's head.

He will be up against his former club knowing that the majority of his friends from his home town of Arenys del Mar will be kitted out in the Blaugrana colours supporting the opposition. His self-determination and ability to keep cool could be the key to ensuring that the Gunners stay calm.

PROBABLE TEAMS

FC Barcelona: Valdés, Oleguer, Van Bronkhorst, Puyol, Márquez, Edmílson, Xavi, Iniesta, Giuly, Ronaldinho, Eto'o

Arsenal: Lehmann, Eboué, Cole, Touré, Campbell, Gilberto, Hleb, Fabregas, Reyes, Ljungberg, Henry

PREDICTION

The midfield battle will be the key in this colossal encounter. Everything that Barcelona create passes through the middle with extremely few high balls being played to the front men. Therefore, the Gunners’ main task will be to swamp the centre of the park and ensure that Rijkaard's team have no space in which to employ their passing game. Equally, the Catalan team must be wary of Arsenal launching counter-attacks along the floor at great speed and will have to keep players back to ensure that breakaways are prevented.

Both teams have players with incredible technique and vision, but the impetus is with Barça after their title victory and their track record throughout the season that has been match by no club in Europe. Arsenal will pack their defence when under attack, but it is doubtful that any man-marking will be employed as that would lead to even more problems in other areas. It will be fast, frenetic and above all a spectacle as two sides that enjoy entertaining and attacking go head-to-head.

At the end though, they will be dancing on Las Ramblas once again.

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Posted by soccer365 at 09:07 AM | Permalink | Comments (13)

(Soccer365.com) - Robinho is ecstatic about his first World Cup.

Real Madrid phenom Robinho admitted he was over the moon with his inclusion to Carlos Alberto Parreira’s World Cup squad and ready for duty.

"It is something incredible to have been called up by the coach, with so many important players in the team," he exclaimed. "We have the best team in the world and I am ready when Parreira needs me."

"We have a team with a lot of experience," said the youngster. "We all know how to play with pressure on our shoulders and everyone is expecting Brazil to be the champions."

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Posted by soccer365 at 09:03 AM | Permalink | Comments (15)

(Soccer365.com) - In light of the ongoing wiretap scandal back home, Italy boss Marcelo Lippi believes it is the team’s duty to restore the good name of Azzurri football at World Cup 2006.

In light of the ongoing wiretap scandal back home, Italy boss Marcelo Lippi believes it is the team’s duty to restore the good name of Azzurri football at World Cup 2006.

"We want to take the name of Italian football to make it at the highest level," he stated. "We know we have this responsibility."

"We hope to feed the enthusiasm with good results."

Lippi, however, begged off of questions over his take on the controversy.

"Everything is happening right now," he explained. "It's not for me to judge."

"I am only thinking of doing my own job."

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(Soccer365.com) - No less that 15 Major League Soccer players will be representing their countries in Germany '06. Not all from the US.

Four international players – midfielder Douglas Sequeira (Real Salt Lake/Costa Rica), defender Claudio Suarez (Chivas USA/Mexico), defender Avery John (New England Revolution/Trinidad & Tobago) and forward Cornell Glen (Los Angeles Galaxy/Trinidad & Tobago) were named to their countries’ respective rosters for the 2006 FIFA World Cup.

In addition to the 11 MLS players on the 23-man United States roster, these four selections mean that a total of 15 current MLS players will represent their nations in Germany. The FIFA World Cup runs June 9 to July 9 with ABC, ESPN and ESPN2 combining to broadcast all 64 games live in high-definition and is produced in association with Soccer United Marketing.

Suarez dons Mexico’s World Cup jersey for the third time in his legendary career, while Sequeira, Glen and John make their first World Cup appearance.

Sequeira to be at World Cup opener

Sequeira, 28, is a steady holding midfielder who has started and played 90 minutes in every one of his 29 MLS matches. Last year, Sequeira played his first season in MLS with Chivas USA. Real Salt Lake acquired Sequeira before the 2006 season in a trade involving defender Brian Dunseth.

Sequeira aims to help Costa Rica move past the first round for only the second time ever. Costa Rica has the tall order of facing host Germany in the opening match of the World Cup on June 9. Also in Group A with Costa Rica are Ecuador and Poland.

For Suarez, ‘age is not an impediment’

Suarez signed with Chivas USA (based in Los Angeles) in March and started three MLS games before reporting to Mexico’s training camp.

“Age is not an impediment to playing in a World Cup, thanks to God and all he is giving me,” Suarez told La Opinion.

Suarez, 37, played in the 1994 and 1998 World Cups and missed the 2002 edition with a broken leg. He has worn the captain’s armband for many of his 176 international appearances. His nickname, “El Emperador,” – meaning “The Emperor” in Spanish – refers to his legendary stature on the Tricolor’s back line.

In the first round, Mexico faces Portugal, Angola, and Iran in Group D. Mexico is competing in the World Cup for the 13th time, having advanced to the quarterfinals twice (1970 and 1986).

Glen and John chosen by smallest nation ever to qualify

Glen and John will proudly represent Trinidad & Tobago, which makes its World Cup debut. By its population (1.1 million) and area (1,864 square miles), Trinidad & Tobago is the smallest nation ever to qualify for the World Cup. The “Soca Warriors” have the challenge of advancing out of Group B, which includes England, Paraguay and Sweden.

Now in his third season with the Revolution, John turns 31 on June 18, and has accumulated 72 caps since starring for Yavapai College and American University in 1994-1999. His cousin, forward Stern John, who is also on the roster, played two seasons with the Columbus Crew and holds the MLS record for goals per game in a season, set in 1998 when he had 26 goals in 27 games for a 0.96 average.

Glen, 25, earned the MLS Player of the Week award on April 17, after scoring both goals in the Galaxy’s 2-1 victory over Chivas USA. Glen has 12 goals, 6 assists in 45 MLS games since signing with the MetroStars in 2004 and he has played for four MLS teams.

Monday, May 15 was the deadline for the 32 qualified national teams to submit their final 23-man rosters to FIFA, which will announce the official rosters again on Thursday, May 18. Teams have until 24 hours prior to their first match in the tournament to make any changes due to injury. Any player dropped for injury must be replaced by one from the list of alternates submitted Monday.

About Major League Soccer

Headquartered in New York City, Major League Soccer is the top-flight professional soccer league in the United States and features many stars from the U.S. and around the world. In its 11th season, the 12 teams in MLS are: the Chicago Fire, Colorado Rapids, Club Deportivo Chivas USA, Columbus Crew, D.C. United, FC Dallas, Houston Dynamo, Kansas City Wizards, Los Angeles Galaxy, Red Bull New York, New England Revolution and Real Salt Lake. For more information about MLS, log on to the League’s official Web site at www.MLSnet.com.

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(Soccer365.com) - Czech Republic coach Karel Bruckner revealed an experienced 23-man squad for the World Cup.

Czech Republic manager Karel Bruckner has pulled together a veteran squad to head to Germany in announcing his 23-man roster on Monday (May 15).

Borussia Dortmund striker Jan Koller has sufficiently recovered to make a squad list that includes a few injury concerns, most notably Bordeaux midfielder Vladimir Smicer. Juventus midfielder Pavel Nedved and Chelsea goalkeeper Peter Cech headline a group loaded with international experience.

"This squad was created for EURO 2004 in Portugal with the 2006 World Cup in mind," Bruckner told a news conference. The 2004 European Championship semifinalists will start training together on May 20 at Seefeld in Austria.

Czech Republic 2006 FIFA World Cup Roster

GOALKEEPERS: Jaromir Blazek (Sparta Prague), Petr Cech (Chelsea), Antonin Kinsky (Saturn Ramenskoye)

DEFENDERS: Zdenek Grygera (Ajax Amsterdam), Marek Jankulovski (AC Milan), Martin Jiranek (Spartak Moscow), Radoslav Kovac (Spartak Moscow), Pavel Mares (Zenit St Petersburg), David Rozehnal (Paris St Germain), Tomas Ujfalusi (Fiorentina)

MIDFIELDERS: Tomas Galasek (Ajax Amsterdam), David Jarolim (Hamburg SV), Pavel Nedved (Juventus), Jaroslav Plasil (Monaco), Karel Poborsky (Ceske Budejovice), Jan Polak (Nuremberg), Tomas Rosicky (Borussia Dortmund), Vladimir Smicer (Girondins Bordeaux)

FORWARDS: Milan Baros (Aston Villa), Marek Heinz (Galatasaray), Jan Koller (Borussia Dortmund), Vratislav Lokvenc (Red Bull Salzburg), Jiri Stajner (Hannover 96).

Press Release courtesy of www.ussoccer.com

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(Goal.com) - Carlos Alberto Parreira has just formally announced the definitive list of 23 players that will form the 2006 seleção charged with the mission of bringing the ‘Hexa’ back to Brazil in the old world that last saw Brazil lift the trophy with the first Brazilian conquest in Sweden 1958.

The announcement was made in the Salão Versailles (Versailles Room) at Rio de Janeiro’s plush Hotel Windsor. Rogério Ceni, São Paulo’s flamboyant and sharp free-kick taking keeper, won a particular private Paulista duel with Marcos, the (injured) Palmeiras keeper from the 2002 triumph.

Lyon’s Cris (ex-Cruzeiro) won the ‘shootout’ with a Roque Júnior still hampered by nagging injuries. Towering Benfica stopper Luisão (ex-Cruzeiro) also joined his former club-mate in the seleção that doesn’t surprise by leaving recovering Ricardo Oliveira and emerging Nilmar at home in favour of a Fred who’s impressed in France.

Gilberto (Hertha Berlin) was a surprise choice instead of Gustavo Nery (Corinthians), although Parque São Jorge team-mate Ricardinho will be able to tell him all about it as the number 11 slipped in for his second World Cup in a row in detriment to Alex (Fenerbahçe-TUR).

Brazil – World Cup 2006 Squad (Official)
Goalkeepers

Dida (AC Milan-ITA)
Júlio César (Inter Milan -ITA)
Rogério Ceni (São Paulo)

Wing-Backs

Cicinho (Real Madrid-SPA)
Cafú (Milan-ITA)
Roberto Carlos (Real Madrid-SPA)
Gilberto (Hertha Berlin - GER)

Defenders

Lúcio (Bayern Munich - GER)
Juan (Bayer Leverkeusen- GER)
Cris (Lyon-FRA)
Luisão (Benfica-POR)

Midfielders

Emerson (Juventus-ITA)
Zé Roberto (Bayern Munich - GER)
Gilberto Silva (Arsenal-ENG)
Edmílson (Barcelona-SPA)
Kaká (AC Milan-ITA)
Ronaldinho (Barcelona-SPA)
Juninho Pernambucano (Lyon-FRA)
Ricardinho (Corinthians)

Strikers

Ronaldo (Real Madrid-SPA)
Robinho (Real Madrid-SPA)
Adriano (Inter Milan -ITA)
Fred (Lyon-FRA)

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Posted by soccer365 at 09:22 AM | Permalink | Comments (8)

(Soccer365.com) - Spanish team coach Luis Aragonés gives his reasons for omitting fan favorites like Baraja, Vicente and Morientes from the Germany '06 field.

Spain manager Luis Aragones has explained that he left such stars as Ruben Baraja and Vicente off of his World Cup roster.

"I've given priority to the players who suit the way we play," he told reporters. "We can't put the interests of individual players before those of the team and its stability."

"I've had to think about it very carefully, but I haven't lost any sleep over it," said Aragones. "It isn't always a case of just taking the 11 best players."

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Posted by soccer365 at 08:37 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

(Soccer365.com) - German national team head coach Jürgen Klinsmann shocked the soccer world when he announced David Odonkor to his World Cup list.

Germany manager Jürgen Klinsmann surprised observers by naming Borussia Dortmund youngster David Odonkor to his World Cup squad.

A midfield/forward with Olympic-class speed, the debutant had never even spoken to the coach before Monday’s happy phone call

"We've had our eye on him for the last six months, but didn't want to include him too soon to keep the pressure off him," said Klinsmann.

"He's a great talent and brings something we urgently need: speed, the unexpected and someone who can sprint to the goal line and give us a cross from deep in the corner."

Said the trainer: "We believe that he can help us with his cheekiness, something we're missing."

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Posted by soccer365 at 08:33 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

(Soccer365.com) - Coupet shocked about not being the top keeper for Les Bleus in the World Cup.

Lyon keeper Gregory Coupet is beside himself with frustration after France boss Raymond Domenech announced Fabien Barthez as his World Cup #1.

"It is not hell, but it is a big swindle," he told Canal+. "I am waiting for the reason for that decision."

"I can be perplexed, can't I?," asked Coupet.

"I will have to keep my head up, be ready psychologically in order to help the team during the World Cup."

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Posted by soccer365 at 08:29 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)

(Soccer365.com) - Dutch coach Marco van Basten explains Huntelaar omission from Germany '06 roster.

Fresh from naming his World Cup squad, Holland manager Marco van Basten reasoned that omitted strike starlet Klaas-Jan Huntelaar is certain to make such squads in the future.

"Klaas-Jan had a good season at Ajax and Heerenveen with many goals, but is unlucky that we won't take four central strikers to the World Cup," he explained.

"He made a good impression last week and is a balanced boy who will make the squad in the coming years."

Huntelaar, who led the Eredivisie in scoring this season, will now lead Young Oranje into the Under-21 European Championships starting next week.

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(Goal.com) - Tottenham announced on Monday that they'd secured a shirt sponsorship deal with online casino company Mansion.

The massive four-year deal is worth at least £34m to the North London club and is among the largest ten deals of its kind in the World.

Mansion, who had been in talks with Manchester United last month, will replace travel agents Thomson as Spurs' shirt sponsor from July 1st.

Spurs chairman Daniel Levy said: "Tottenham has made progress on and off the pitch in recent years which has put the club in a good position to improve its commercial partnerships.

"We are excited about working with Mansion and keen to accelerate the international development of the club."

While David Kinsmann, chief operating officer of Mansion, added: "We have been looking to secure a major Premier League deal for some time.

"Tottenham has a long and successful history, great traditions and a wonderful brand."

The money is expected to aid Martin Jol's summer spending spree, which could see Dimitar Berbatov and Pascal Chimbonda arrive at White Hart Lane.

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Posted by soccer365 at 08:23 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

(Goal.com) - The Argentinean would come back after a year with Chelsea.

With all probability Hernan Crespo will return to the Rossoneri this season to be the fourth striker of the Italian side and replace Amoroso who will most like re-join his former team Udinese.

Crespo’s return will be facilitated by the fact that Andriy Shevchenko will be joining Chelsea for a fee not lower than 45 million Euros.

Milan are hoping that with this sum they can lure Thierry Henry from Arsenal. However, the Rossoneri will have to fight off Barcelona’s challenge in order to secure the services of the French player.

Posted by soccer365 at 03:18 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)

(Soccer365.com) - Chivas lose to Pachuca in the last play of the game and San Luis finishes off Toluca to make first ever final.

San Luis 2 – 1 Toluca

San Luis keeps living a fairy tale season, going from the brink of relegation to the Mexican league final after a 2-1 (4-2) home win over defending champs, Toluca, who had been given a gift as the national team sent back Israel Lopez.

It was an unusual scenario for the Red Devils, playing as visitors and having to win by at least two goals to stay alive, an unenviable position which they have not been used to.

The home team withstood a charge from Toluca and came through in virtually their first scoring opportunity.

Israel Martinez was arguable the game’s MVP, setting up both scores.

In the 18th minute Martinez found Angel Reyna, who beat his man and drilled a right-booted shot for the first goal of the match.

As a champion should, Toluca answered with a ferocious attack, yet the Adrians, defender Garcia Arias and goalkeeper Martinez were instrumental in keeping the home team ahead.

Martinez did it again in the 50th, this time hitting Octavio Valdez who saw Cristante leave his spot and shot home the dagger for the Devils.

A minute later, with San Luis still celebrating their goal, Israel Lopez, showing no bad feelings after being left out of the World Cup, shot a free kick that cut the lead in half, and gave the Devils new hope.

Nevertheless, the Potosi side stood firm, never letting up as they could all taste their first final, their first shot at a championship.

San Luis will play Pachuca in the final, which kicks off Thursday, May 18th in San Luis and culminates Sunday, May 21st in Pachuca.

Pachuca 2 – 3 Chivas

Either a miracle comeback or a monster collapse, any way you slice it, Pachuca advanced to the final with after a last-second goal in Sunday’s 3-2 loss to Chivas.

It was sew-saw battle to the finish in another dramatic Mexican league playoff game that saw the young Chivas, relying on an old goat, nearly pull off a splendid comeback at Pachuca with two goals by the exuberant ‘Bofo’ Bautista.

Chivas missed out on a few scoring chances, until the 37th minute.

Guadalajara’s Diego Martinez struck from the right side and found Omar Esparza, who cut inside, escaping two men and shot the opposite side of the goalkeeper for the goal.

Series tied 2-2. Chivas needed one more to advance.

The visitors strangely began playing more conservatively afterward, and in the 58th minute, Pachuca’s main man, Uruguayan Richard Nuñez showed his leg in nailing a penalty kick that tied the game, and gave the home side a one-goal edge.

That woke up the Chivas, who went on the attack once again. And in a six-minute span, strike ace Adolfo Bautista found the net twice single-handedly to put the Guadalajara squad into the final.

As time expired, the visitors went from Holy Flock to black sheep in the blink of an eye:

In the final seconds of the three-minute injury time, Colombian Aquivaldo Mosquera got in front of goalkeeper Miguel Calero, who had left his spot to go on the offensive, and headed home a rebound that eliminated the Chivas, in their centennial, and drove the home fans wild with glee.

The Tuzos will make their fifth final appearance beginning Thursday, May 18th in San Luis and concluding Sunday, May 21st in Pachuca.

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London, England (Sports Network) - After helping Bayern Munich capture its second consecutive league title in the Bundesliga, midfielder Michael Ballack signed a three-year contract with Premiership's Chelsea on Monday.

The midfielder is Chelsea's first signing of the summer. The club finished the Premiership season winning its second consecutive league title. Ballack's contract with Bayern Munich was due to expire this summer.

Ballack put pen to paper Monday morning at Stamford Bridge.

In four years at Bayern Munich, Ballack helped the club to three league titles and three German Cups.

Posted by SoccerAdmin at 11:01 AM | Permalink | Comments (11)

(Soccer365.com) - It was a busy weekend in Mexico, as Mexico defeated Congo 2-1 in their final home friendly, as 80,000 bid farewell to El Tri, and the final cut was made, leaving Jaime Lozano, Israel Lopez and Joel Huiqui out of the plane for Germany.

Mexico 2 – 1 Congo

Cruz Azul’s Francisco ‘Kikin’ Fonseca scored twice as Mexico edged Congo 2-1, leaving their fans with a taste of victory before flying to Europe.

It looked as though Mexico would take a resounding win to Europe, as they headed into the intermission with a 2-0 lead. Fonseca nailed a header off an Omar Bravo pass in the 3rd minute.

Then the aforementioned Lozano found Fonseca in the 41st for the 2-0 score.

But in the 51st minute Meu Mbokani, showcasing the speed and surprise for which African teams are well known, got loose down the right side and burned the net and quieted the large contingent at Azteca Stadium.

Afterward, the Congo side toughened defensively, showing great physical toughness as they fought for the ball, never giving Mexico any more clear scoring chances.

Cuts

The announcement of the trim down was made Saturday morning by Guillermo Cantu, president of the Selection Committee, who stated the three players were notified Friday night.

Knowing he would be questioned about his son-in-law, Rafael ‘Chquis’ Garcia, head coach, Ricardo La Volpe, refused to make the announcement personally.

“This had to be handled in an institutional manner,” said Cantu.
“It has had a deep effect and pain among the selected players.”

Trip

The team will fly to Europe May 20th where they will prepare for their two final friendlies, against France in Paris May 27th and Holland in Eindhoven June 1st.

From June 2nd on, the team will set up shop in Gottingen.

El Tricolor will debut June 11th against Iran; on June 16th will take on Angola and on the 21st face Portugal.

The final 23

Goalkeepers:

Oswaldo Sánchez, Jesús Corona, Guillermo Ochoa.

Defenders:

Rafael Márquez, Claudio Suárez, Francisco Rodríguez, José Antonio Castro, Mario Méndez, Ricardo Osorio, Carlos Salcido, José Guardado, Gonzalo Pineda.

Midfielders:

Antonio Naelson, Luis Pérez, Pável Pardo, Gerardo Torrado, Rafael García, Ramón Morales.

Strikers:

Guillermo Franco, Jared Borgetti, Francisco Fonseca, José Arellano, Omar Bravo.

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(Goal.com) - Juventus won the Serie A title for the second year running by defeating Reggina 2-0 on the final day of the Italian season - but now they face an anxious wait while it is decided whether or not they can keep their championship.

A David Trezeguet header and a goal from substitute Alessandro Del Piero ensured that Juve finished three points clear of their nearest rivals, AC Milan (who won 2-1 at home to Roma) to clinch their 29th Scudetto.

It remains to be seen, however, if Italian football's governing body will allow Juve to retain this and last year's titles, given the ongoing investigation into alleged corruption in Serie A.

Juve went into the Reggina game under a dark cloud of suspicion following the resignation of their entire board on Thursday in the wake of publcation of transcripts of phone calls made by senior director Luciano Moggi. Many of these concerned refereeing appointments.

Despite the mounting problems of Italy's most successful club, Juve fans turned up in strength, determined to celebrate a title triumph in Bari, venue for the match because of Reggina's stadium ban.

And celebrate they did, but the joy may yet turn to despair.

Posted by soccer365 at 09:39 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)

(Soccer365.com) - The final weekend in the Argentinean league Clausura '06 tournament ended with five teams qualifying to the continent's most prestigious competition: the Libertadores Cup.

The Argentinean league season came to a riotous yet anticlimactic end on Sunday. With the championship already secured by Boca Juniors, the only thing left to play for was a berth in next year’s Libertadores Cup.

Boca Juniors, who celebrated their 22nd championship at home with a 2-0 win over Olimpo, will earn a spot in next year’s competition as the back-to-back champions.

Next is Boca’s arch nemesis, River Plate, who ended their season at Quilmes, and for the second time in ten days were in the midst of fan violence, as Referee Gabriel Favale suspended the game in the 68th minute when fans clashed with police in the stands and hurled assorted missiles, including stones and fireworks, on to the pitch. They won the game 3-1 by the way.

Gimnasia-La Plata, Banfield (who secured the place with a 2-0 away defeat of Gimnasia LP) and Velez Sarsfield (who managed a last gasp draw at relegated Instituto) were the other teams to qualify for the Libertadores after finishing third, fourth and fifth in the overall standings which combine the Apertura ‘05 and Clausura ‘06 championships.

Uruguayan striker Gonzalo Vargas finished as the Clausura's top goal-scorer with 12 for Gimnasia-La Plata.

Instituto and Tiro Federal, both based in Cordoba, went down after finishing bottom of the relegation standings which are taken over the last three seasons. Argentinos Juniors and Olimpo de Bahia Blanca will playoff versus Nacional B teams, and one of them will be relegated as well.

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Posted by soccer365 at 09:36 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

(Soccer365.com) - Ronaldinho looking for first European crown.

Brazilian superstar Ronaldinho has a date with destiny in Wednesday's Champions League final in Paris.

Barca take on Arsenal at the Stade de France in what should be a pulsating clash between two of Europe's best footballing sides.

"I always imagined myself playing in the top competitions and playing in the big finals and now I have the chance to be crowned European champion," Ronaldinho told PA Sport. "It's my turn now and with the rest of my team-mates, I'm ready to make my dream come true. Few players get this chance to play in a final and I'm delighted to be able to experience this."

For Ronaldinho, Wednesday's final will provide him with an opportunity to be reacquainted with the French capital, after previously enjoying a spell there earlier in his career with Paris St Germain.

"It's special to return to a city that I love," he added. "I am very happy and very proud.

"It was in Paris where I began my European football career and to be able to play a Champions League final there, and perhaps win, motivates me even more."

Much is expected from the two-time FIFA World Player of the Year who this summer hopes to win his second World Cup winners medal with Brazil.

However, pressure is something the 26-year-old has become accustomed to.

"To have the confidence of my team-mates gives me even greater motivation," he said. "It makes me relax and able to do my job better.

"I hope Wednesday will be a Barca night but I'm really not thinking of whether I will be the man of the match or whether I will score. All I want to do is help my team win, provide assists, that's what I'm best at."

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(Soccer365.com) - Inter Milan's Adriano is hoping his Brazilian teammates can help him get back on top.

Adriano is hoping his Brazil teammates can help him rediscover his best form.

The striker has endured a tough season with Internazionale and believes the atmosphere at the Serie A club has contributed to his struggles. Having returned to Rio de Janeiro to begin his preparations for the World Cup, Adriano is looking forward to seeing some friendly faces.

"I have had difficult moments in Italy this year," he said. "I want to be with my family to help me recover and do a good job at the World Cup."

The 24-year-old added that he has not been happy in Milan this season, where his future has been the subject of much speculation.

"It is difficult to work in a team where there is not peace," he said. "I am not happy. I need joy and smiles to play, like there are in the Brazil team. I need my Brazil team-mates."

Inter's board have allowed Adriano to return to Brazil despite the fact that it means he will miss Sunday's game at Cagliari. Adriano likened his situation to the one experienced by his international strike partner Ronaldo, who has had a troubled season with Real Madrid.

"I am unhappy, and Ronaldo is like me," he said. "He is not in his best form at Real Madrid. We want to recover to play at our best in the World Cup."

Adriano's comments come only two days after Inter captain Javier Zanetti gave his striker a vote of confidence, telling Argentinian television: "Adriano is like all Brazilians. They are excellent players, but if they are not happy, they are depressed and they do not play well. But he is a good boy."

As for his future at Inter, Adriano is putting that question on hold.

"I will think about next season after Germany," he said.

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Posted by soccer365 at 08:42 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)

(Soccer365.com) - The Dutch sharpshooter is ready to strike big in Germany '06.

Holland striker Ruud van Nistelrooy claims he is emerging from an uncharacteristically light workload with Manchester United primed for a big World Cup.

The goal ace has been frustrated by his recent place on the bench with the Red Devils, but says this lack of action will ultimately benefit Oranje in Germany.

"I am no longer bothered by little pains or complaints and I am not burned out after a long and tough season," van Nistelrooy told De Telegraaf.

"I feel that I am fitter than ever and cannot wait to go to the World Cup."

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Posted by soccer365 at 08:35 AM | Permalink | Comments (6)

Cardiff, Wales (Sports Network) - It wasn't easy, but Liverpool won its first FA Cup since 2001 on Saturday after edging out West Ham in penalty kicks at the Millennium Stadium in Cardiff.

"I must give credit to my players as after a 62-game season a lot of them had cramp, but they kept going until the end, never gave up and have done a fantastic job," said Reds manager Rafael Benitez.

The Reds never held the advantage during the match and appeared to be on the losing side until Steven Gerrard netted his second goal of the day in stoppage time to make it a 3-3 affair.

After extra time, the match was still deadlocked at three heading into penalty kicks. Pepe Reina stole the show in the shootout, saving three of the four shots he faced.

Dietmar Hamman, Gerrard and John Arne Riise all found the back of the net in the penalty kick round for the Reds, who won the world's oldest cup competition for the seventh time.

Teddy Sheringham was the only West Ham player to beat Reina in the shootout. Bobby Zamora, Paul Konchesky and Anton Ferdinand were all turned away by the Liverpool goalkeeper.

"Pepe is famous back in Spain for saving penalties so we had confidence in him and he did his job for us," said Benitez.

West Ham opened up the scoring in the 21st minute when Jamie Carragher kicked a cross into his own net.

Only seven minutes later, West Ham doubled its lead when Dean Ashton raced to a rebound and fired it in from close range.

Before the first-half whistle, the Reds trimmed the deficit to 2-1. In the 32nd minute, Djibril Cisse got Liverpool on the board after finishing off a volley from Gerrard.

In the 54th minute, it was Gerrard on the receiving end as he knotted it up at two with a hard shot which he deposited into the top corner of the net.

Ten minutes later though, West Ham regained control courtesy of a Konchesky tally in the 64th minute. Konchesky was simply only trying to cross the ball, but instead, it found a vacancy right underneath the top bar on the far post.

Many of the fans thought that was going to be the game winner, but Gerrard and the Reds had different plans. In injury time, the captain blasted the ball into the back of the West Ham net from 30 yards out to make it a 3-3 match.

"Steven Gerrard scored two fantastic goals and you know the quality he has," said Benitez. I give him credit, but for me it was the success of the team. Steven would say that himself and the energy levels the players showed was amazing. It was a fantastic final."

It was the 125th FA Cup, and the second straight year that the final went to a penalty shootout.

Image by: AFP - CARL DE SOUZA

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(Soccer365.com) - The Paraguayans tough defense is put to the test but Libertad walked away with the precious away draw.

River Plate 2 - 2 Libertad

Midfielder Carlos Bonet’s brace gave Paraguayan outsiders Libertad a valuable 2-2 draw away to River Plate in the first leg of their Libertadores Cup quarterfinal on Thursday.

Three of the goals came in a five-minute span late in the game, as River, who eliminated Corinthians of Brazil in the previous round, twice came from behind.

The Millonarios misfired four times and forced three saves from Libertad goalkeeper, Aldo Bobadilla, as they took a dominated the first half.

Though River was on the attack, it was Libertad that took the lead.

In the 38th minute, Bonet struck a crunching volley which thumped against the underside of the crossbar and hit the back of the net.

Libertad, who gave up only three goals in their previous eight games in the tournament, frustrated River for most of the second half, until the dramatic finale.

Reserve Daniel Montenegro evened the match in the 77th minute, rifling home from outside the area with a goal which went in off the post.

Libertad was not swayed.
Left alone deep inside enemy territory, he hit a looping shot that Lux was unable to reach.

But River responded.

Ernesto Farias buried a header in the 82nd minute which at least helps the home team salvage some of the game.

River Plate has plenty of time to adjust as the rematch will be July 19th in Paraguay.

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Posted by soccer365 at 02:51 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)

(Soccer365.com) - Visiting pachuca overcame Chivas' youth energy and a deficit to win the first leg of their semifinals series 2-1.

Guadalajara 1 - 2 Pachuca

Pachuca came back to beat Chivas away 2-1 and head home for Sunday’s semifinals rematch with a decided edge in reaching the final.

The away victory means the Tuzos could afford to even lose by a goal and still advance to the finals since they took their third league crown in Apertura ’03. Chivas, meanwhile needs to win by at least two goals.

It was nearly the same situation that they faced in the first round against Jaguares, and they were able to storm back to score four in Chiapas.

Chivas, who are already playing with a handful of young reserves, escaped Bofo Bautista’s suspension on a technicality that states if a team has given up more than two players to the national squad, then said player can prolong the suspension.

The Holy Flock’s youth appeared to be against them but at first they showed the same exuberance that helped them get this far.

In the first few minutes, the striped goats were a wild herd, attacking from all sides of the pitch, especially young Sergio Avila, who was a nightmare for the visitors.

Avila found Jose Patlan in the 48th, who scored between two defenders.

But the celebration did not last long, however, as Uruguayan playmaker, Rich Nuñez struck home the equalizer just seven minutes later.

Chepo brought in some experience in the second half, in the form Diego Martinez, Sergio Santana and the aforementioned ‘Bofo’; but none made an impact.

It looked like the scapegoats would survive with a draw.
Then Hector Castro made the mistake of a lifetime: late in the game, with the Tuzos putting pressure, Eduardo Rergis sent a ball down the left flank, which Castro, hearing Nuñez’s boot-steps, tried to clear, and instead, sent it to his own goal.

No podemos dar a Chivas como derrotado, ha demostrado que puede remontar marcadores y nosotros no podemos perder eso de vista, el partido en casa va a ser difícil, pero debemos manejar el resultado, porque aún el rival está vivo", expresó el anotador del primer gol tuzo, el uruguayo Richard Núñez.

“We can’t underestimate the Chivas,” said Nuñez. “They’ve shown they can turn things around and we can’t lose sight of that. The game at home will be tough but we have to control the outcome, for the foe is still alive.”

The rematch is set for Sunday, May 14th in Pachuca.

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Posted by soccer365 at 09:21 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)

(Goal.com) - MSI head honcho Kia Joorabchian may still be throwing fluffy blanket denials to smother rumours that team idol Carlitos Tevez may be leaving Corinthians, but the new Timão tactician, old hand Geninho, let slip that there’s a mouth-watering offer been made for the Argentine.

“I’ve chatted with Kia and he mentioned that [the Tevez situation]. He almost guaranteed that Mascherano will stay, but Tevez has got a really, really attractive transfer proposal. He [Kia] said that he’s going to try to keep hold of him until the middle of next year, but it’ll be difficult”, said Geninho to cable channel ‘SporTV’.

Tevez and Mascherano both left the temporary Corinthians base camp in Curitiba with permission to return to Argentina for treatment on a sprained ankle and knee pains. This has led to rising fears in the Fiel that the São Paulo fiasco could have been Carlitos’ last match for the Timão.

With demand for sparkling strikers leading European teams to sweeten the pot once more, MSI may be about to pull off a coup. The potential destination still remains secret, “Kia didn’t drop any names”, smiled Geninho, but it could have something to do with a shirt sponsor in common...

Posted by soccer365 at 09:19 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)

(Goal.com) - Roberto Mancini's record 10th triumph in the Coppa Italia - four as a coach, six as a player - was not all sweetness and light.

Despite guiding Internazionale to their second successive Coppa triumph and so ensuring silverware for the Inter trophy cabinet, Mancini's sense of achievement was muted by the displeasure of some Nerazzurri fansand overshadowed by the scandal that is rocking Italian football.

After the 3-1 win over Roma at the San Siro, which made it a 4-2 aggegate victory, Mamcini said:

“I am happy for the lads, as over the past month there have been several disappointments and they deserved to celebrate.”

However, the Inter fans left during the ceremony, having unfurled a large banner that read: ‘Enjoy your meaningless Cup, it won’t bring back your dignity.’

The coach added: “We went out of the Champions League in a horrible manner, even if Arsenal were even worse than us against Villarreal, yet still qualified. I can’t talk about our performance in Serie A, as that is a different matter.”

He has been vocal in his criticism of Juventus and the recent scandal has raisedserious questions about Juve's relationship with referees.

“Perhaps Inter would’ve won more over the past few years, but not just us, other clubs too. I want to see to which depth we have sunk.”

Juve coach Fabio Capello continues to be linked with the Inter job for next season, suggesting that winning two Coppa Italias and the Italian Super Cup may not be enough to keep Mancini in his post.

Meanwhile, Inter captain Javier Zanetti said: “I wasn’t here to lift the trophy last year as I was on international duty, so it’s very special for me. We wanted this competition and the fans should join us in enjoying it.”

Roma coach Luciano Spalletti had to cope with yet more debilitating injuries in his squad and it ultimately cost them as Roma lost to Inter in the Coppa Italia final for the second consecutive season.

“We had reacted well to Inter’s first goal and were in the running, but that goal on the counter-attack effectively created some problems for us,” he said.

But he has won admirers for getting Roma to the Final, and into the running for fourth place in Serie, despite all the injuries.

Suspensions and a full treatment room have left Spalletti with limited playing resources for most of the season, and it was the same for the final. Simone Perrotta, Rodrigo Taddei and Philippe Mexes were all suspended for the second-leg, while Daniele De Rossi was struck down by flu and was seen coughing repeatedly on the bench during the game.

“I think Roma can be satisfied with this season, although I haven’t looked for alibis throughout the campaign and I don’t want to start now. Of course, being here with De Rossi would’ve probably changed the match to a degree, as he is a player of great character. Unfortunately, we lost him as well,” added Spalletti.

But the good news for the Giallorossi was that captain Francesco Totti made his comeback as a substitute, 81 days after undergoing surgery on a fractured ankle.

“Francesco hasn’t got 90 minutes in his legs and we both decided it was better this way. Unfortunately, by the time he came on, the game was practically sealed, as it was tough to come back from 2-0 down. At least he looked confident and this bodes well for his recovery.”

Roma's Damiano Tommasi congratulated Inter on their second straight Coppa Italia success. “Perhaps we deserved something more in the first leg, but Inter were worth their win tonight, even if the margin is a bit heavy, all things considered,” said the midfielder.

Asked about the scandal engulfing Juventus and their allegedly close rapport with referees, Tommasi commented: “The passion for football will always exist. Everyone feels the need to clarify the situation, but that is merely evidence of how much we all care about this sport. I think things need to be done in the open.”

Posted by soccer365 at 08:59 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)

(Soccer365.com) - Ukrainian forward Shevchenko will be ready to lead his team to Germany next month.

AC Milan doctors reports that strike ace Andriy Shevchenko will be recovered from a knee problem in plenty of time to lead Ukraine at World Cup.

The forward will miss the Rossoneri’s season finale, but the medical staff is confident he is in no danger of missing the grand tourney.

"After several examinations, we can confirm that Shevchenko needs to be rested for 25 days, that's to say 15 of complete rest and 10 for rehabilitation," stated Jean-Pierre Meersseman.

"He will be able to train to be ready with regards to the World Cup."

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Posted by soccer365 at 08:47 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

(Soccer365.com) - Iran's Ivankovic would like to separate politics from soccer as he leads Iran to Germany.

Iran manager Branko Ivankovic says he’d like to separate politics from sport when he leads the team at World Cup 2006.

The coach won’t bar the squad from speaking on any topic, but hopes all lines of questioning focus on the games.

"Obviously, people can ask the players about anything that they want," Ivankovic told Reuters. "We don't have any restrictions, but I would rather people built a clear wall between sport and politics."

"Of course, it is hard for the players to switch off completely from what is going on with Iran, but we have a young ambitious squad who I am convinced will only be thinking about the football."

Ivankovic also offered his opinion that the team can advance from the group stage for the first time.

"The expectations are always incredibly high in Iran," he said. "But I think we do have the strength to get through even if Portugal and Mexico will be clear favorites."

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Posted by soccer365 at 08:42 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

(Goal.com) - As allegations of corruption continue to swirl around Juventus, the club has announced that its entire board of directors has submitted its resignation to the shareholders and called a shareholders' meeting for the 29th of June 2006.

The Juventus board members are:

President Franzo Grande Stevens, vice-president Roberto Bettega, general manager Antonio Giraudo, general director Luciano Moggi, Carlo Sant' Albano, Jean Claude Blanc, Stefano Bertola, Giancarlo Cerutti, Luigi Chiappero, Andrea Pininfarina, Fabrizio Prete and Claudio Saracco.

This latest development comes after exposure of the extent of the scandal that is rocking Italian football to the core continues. La Gazzetta dello Sport today reported that the Napoli magistrates investigating alleged wrong-doings by Juventus director Luciano Moggi and associates during the 2004/2005 season have revealed the names of the teams alleged to be involved in illegal activities.

La Gazzetta dello Sport’s first page indicates that, as well as Juventus, the teams currently under investigation are Fiorentina, Lazio, Udinese, Siena, Messina, Arezzo, Crotone, and Avellino.

The report adds that intercepted phone calls would demonstrate three of these teams have been involved in outright match-fixing, which would mean they could be end up being relegated.

The others clubs appear instead to be both accomplices and victims of Moggi’s network of alleged miscreants, but it has not been demonstated that they committed actual crimes.

Other sensitive information coming out of the investigation appears to demonstrate that Franco Carraro, who resigned as chief of the Italian football federation as a result of this scandal two days ago, knew about these wrong-doings, as did the heads of the referee selection committee of the 2004/2005 season, Luigi Pairetto and Paolo Bergamo.

In addition, Massimo De Santis, the referee who will represent Italy at the forthcoming World Cup, seems to have been in charge of the group of referees controlled by Moggi and the player agent company GEA.

For this reason, De Santis’s presence at the World Cup is now in severe doubt.

Posted by soccer365 at 12:06 PM | Permalink | Comments (3)

(Soccer365.com) - Striker Angel Reyna chimes in on how San Luis continues to shock the Mexican soccer world with another upset win, this time over champions, Toluca.

According to striker Angel Reyna, the key to their stunning 2-1 away victory at defending champs, Toluca came because the team did not get desperate and had the capacity to convert on goal opportunities.

Reyna, who scored the second goal of the Cinderella team, San Luis, explained that his side was better for three simple reasons: “We never despaired, took advantage of spacing and capitalized on our opportunities.”

Number 13 explained that they always had the goal of taking a lead back to Saturday’s home leg, which now they have to take advantage of and play a smart game to secure a trip to the final.

“We wanted a lead and there it is,” said the 21-year old. “Now we have to go play well in San Luis and pull out the victory.” The midfield-striker added that the fans’ support, which has always been full, will be a key factor.

He assured they would not underestimate their opponent, but would try to exploit the spaces left by the mexiquenses as they try to get back in the series.

Goalkeeper, Adrian Martinez was confident the team, who just a week ago was fighting relegation, could make the final if they play at home the same way they played away.

“If we play at home the way we did today, with the support of our fans, and the good vibe we get at Alfonso Lastras Stadium, I think we could advance.”

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(Soccer365.com) - Javier Aguirre set to leave Osasuna for greener pastures, presumably heading south to Madrid.

Osasuna coach Javier Aguirre has informed the squad that he will be departing this summer, presumably to take the job at Atlético Madrid.

"It's his decision and he has taken it for a reason," sighed midfielder David Lopez, who was not angry with the former Mexico boss.

"He has been here four years, has done very well, and now he has a chance to go to a bigger team," he reasoned.

"We understand the decision and wish him all the best."

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Posted by soccer365 at 12:00 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

(Soccer365.com) - Both remaining Brazilian representatives in the Libertadores Cup 2006 journeyed to foreign lands and returned with nothing to show for their efforts.

LDU 2 – 1 Internacional

Liga Deportiva Universitaria handed Internacional their first taste of defeat in the Libertadores Cup with a 2-1 at their high-altitude home Wednesday.

Internacional was inspired and they drew first blood, as Jorge Wagner struck a rebound for the Brazilian goal in the 25th minute.

But the home team, with their slew of national team aces, hit back.

In the 58th minute, Neicer Reasco found his Ecuador teammate Agustin Delgado who leveled with a left-booted strike.

Content to leave Quito with a draw, Internacional could not contain Ariel Graziani, who nailed the second goal in the 85th minute.

Fortunately for the Ecuadorians, the second leg is not set until July 19th, after the World Cup, which means they should have the services of most of their national team selections.

Estudiantes 1 – 0 Sao Paulo

The cardiac Estudiantes once more pulled out a last-gasp victory, this time via an own goal 1-0 at home over defending champions, Sao Paulo.

In a game that lived up to “the war” predicted by the Paulista head coach, the ref took matters into his own hands, sending off Argentinean, Hugo Pavone and Brazilian Andre Diaz. It was a bigger loss for the home team, as Pavone had orchestrated key goals in the Pincharratas climactic Cup run.

True to their tournament MO, Estudiantes launched a late attack, which until now has resulted in all their home victories.

In the waning minutes of the match, Agustin Alayes’ aggressive play forced a Rogerio Ceni own goal for the only score of the game, giving Estudiantes a slim lead.

They must wait until July 19th for the rematch in Brazil.

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Posted by soccer365 at 11:03 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

It was a shock to many when Ecuador finished ahead of Brazil to qualify for their first World Cup in 2002. Seems like serendipity strikes twice: the team is back for their second consecutive World Cup, with a qualifying victory over another stunned Brazil team, as well as Argentina.

Critics throw out words like dedicated and unified to describe this year’s Ecuadorian side, which seem like easy ways to describe any team. However, Ecuador went undefeated at home during qualifying, with only a few inconsistencies along the way. Unity is a key element to this year’s team as more than half of the roster plays for local club Liga Deportiva Universitaria de Quito.

Veteran defender Ivan Hurtado (Al Arabi) is in some ways the heart and backbone of the team, with 100 caps under his belt. Former Southampton striker Agustín Delgado, known for his lethal headers, will play an important role in leading the team. “Tin” scored five times in qualifying along with teammate Edison Méndez (Liga Deportiva), the midfielder who also scored in La Tri’s only World Cup victory over Croatia in 2002. Méndez’s notable long-distance shot accuracy and creative strategies brings an intelligent element to the team’s game.

Promising young stars are also flourishing in Ecuador. Christian Lara (El Nacional) and Luis Valencia (Recreativo Huelva, Spain) are both important to watch as they shape themselves into solid players. Ecuador will be the services of young Franklin Salas (Liga Deportiva), as “the wizard” will miss Germany becuase of an injury. A surprise inclusion on the final roster was temperamental Argentina-based striker Ivan Kaviedes.

Posted by SoccerAdmin at 10:50 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)

(Soccer365.com) - Christoph Metzelder could miss the '06 World Cup after suffering a training injury.

Borussia Dortmund center back Christoph Metzelder has suffered a training injury that could cost him a place on Germany’s World Cup roster.

The captain tore a calf muscle on Tuesday, and Die Mannschaft assistant Joachim Low says Jürgen Klinsmann will wait for more medical information before filling out the team list.

"We will get together on Sunday in private," said Low. "Everything will discussed and then our decision will be made."

"(Metzelder’s) place is very uncertain at the moment."

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Posted by soccer365 at 09:46 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

(Goal.com) - Liverpool are celebrating an Awards double to mark the end of another strong domestic campaign. Club captain Steven Gerrard has been named Barclays Player of the Month for April, with Spanish Keeper Pepe Reina claiming the Barclays Golden Gloves Award for the 2005/06 season.

The Reds have had an impressive month, winning 0-2 away at West Brom (01/04), 0-1 at Blackburn (16/01), and beating both Bolton and Aston Villa at home, 1-0 (09/04) and
3-1 (29/04) respectively, with Gerrard scoring twice against David O’Leary’s men and leading from the front throughout April.

Keeper Pepe Reina, who joined Liverpool in July last year kept an impressive 20 clean sheets, more than Edwin Van der Sar (18) and last year’s Golden Glove winner Petr Cech (17). Brad Friedel of Blackburn and Jens Lehman of Arsenal (both 16) completed the top five.

Liverpool enjoyed a highly encouraging season, reaching the Champions League quarter
final, the FA Cup Final and clinching third place in the Barclays Premiership with 82 points.

Barclays Sponsorship Director Matt Appleby said: “To win the Golden Glove in his first Barclays Premiership campaign, and at such a young age, shows Pepe Reina’s potential. He has used this season as a springboard onto the international scene and has seen off the challenge of some world-class players to keep the most clean sheets.

Reina has been part of an outstanding Liverpool defence that will surely build on their success to make a serious challenge for the title. Steven Gerrard has also had a great season, hitting the peak of his form in April. Both are deserved Barclays Award winners.”

Player Factfiles:

Barclays Golden Glove Winner: Pepe Reina

* Pepe Reina was born on 31/8/82 in Madrid.
* Reina signed for Liverpool in July 2005 from Villarreal for £6 million.
* This season he has made 33 league appearances, taking over from Champions
League hero Jerzy Dudek.
* Reina now holds the Liverpool club record for successive clean sheets in
the Premiership era, surpassing David James’ five games in a row in the
1996/97 season.
* Hailed as ‘the best goalkeeper in Spain’ by Rafael Benitez following his
arrival at Anfield, Reina began his career with Barcelona and made his debut
for the Catalan side at the age of 18, also playing against Liverpool in the
2001 UEFA Cup semi-final.

Barclays Player of the Month for April: Steven Gerrard

* Steven Gerrard has made 32 league appearances for Liverpool this season
and scored 10 goals
* A boyhood Liverpool fan and former YTS trainee, Gerrard made his full club
debut in November 1998 against Blackburn Rovers
* Gerrard was first made club captain in October 2003
* He made his England debut against Ukraine on May 31, 2000 and now has 40
international caps with 6 goals

Posted by soccer365 at 09:37 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)

(Soccer365.com) - San Luis continued to make history as they took game one at champions Toluca.

Toluca 1 - 2 San Luis

San Luis did it again, this time coming into the home of the defending Mexican champions and leaving with a 2-1 win.

Cinderella San Luis is still in the ball, and it’s past midnight.

The game was as expected, rigid and tight, with Toluca riding the speedy Uruguayan striker, #11 Vicente Sanchez, while the visitors had a defensive approach, hoping to avail themselves of any miscues.

In the 41st Leonel Olmedo headed an Angel Reyna corner offering for the goal.

Angel Reyna scored himself in the 62nd minute in a cross that burned the net, and galvanized the Tuneros’ championship hopes.

But the champions were not ready to quit.

They launched a furious attack that ended with the 75th minute Jose Manuel Abundis goal that penetrated a disorganized barrier.

Toluca was back in the game as the lead was cut in half.

However, San Luis kept their poise and withstood a desperate late assault by Abundis and the Devils offense.

Reyna explained that San Luis was better for three simple reasons: “We never despaired, took advantage of spacing and capitalized on our opportunities.”

The decisive second leg will be Saturday, May 13th, at Alfonso Lastras Stadium, where San Luis will be favored to move on to their first final, as Toluca needs to win by at least two goals to advance. A tie would see the Tuneros through.

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Posted by soccer365 at 09:35 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)

(Soccer365.com) - Brazil playmaker extraordinaire Kaká feels he is ready to contribute far more to their World Cup effort than he was able to four years ago in the Orient.

Brazil playmaker extraordinaire Kaká feels he is ready to contribute far more to their World Cup effort than he was able to four years ago in the Orient.

A bit player as they won the last title, the AC Milan star is satisfied having his plate fuller.

"It was very important to have participated in 2002, I learned a lot just by being there," said Kaká. "I've matured since then, and today I'm more prepared to play for Brazil."

"I know how things work in soccer," he noted. "I'm actually happy that I have more responsibility now - I'm ready to face it."

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Posted by soccer365 at 08:31 AM | Permalink | Comments (4)

(Goal.com) - Slick Sevilla outplayed Middlesbrough to win the Uefa Cup 4-0 in Eindhoven.

It was Steve McClaren's final game in charge at Middlesbrough before taking over as England coach, but it ended on a disappointing note - although the four-goal margin was harsh on Boro as they went in search of an equaliser at 1-0 down and inevitably left holes at the back.

Luis Fabiano put Sevilla deservedly in front after 26 minutes, rising above Chris Riggott to head Alves' cross past the stranded Mark Schwarzer, who was playing with a protective mask folowing his cheek fracture.

Mark Viduka had Boro's best chance brilliantly saved by Andres Palop. And Viduka had a very strong shout for a penalty turned down when he was pushed in the back by Navarro in the area. A penalty converted at that point would have made it 1-1.

Instead Enzo Maresca scored from close range after 78 minutes. Jesus Navas played in Fredi Kanoute, Schwarzer parried his shot, and Maresca swept the loose ball into the net.

And with Middlesbrough looking ragged at the back, Maresca thumped a low shot past Schwarzer from 20 yards out.

Kanoute added a fourth two minutes later when Schwarzer parried Maresca's effort as Sevilla threatened to run riot.

Afterwards McClaren, Boro boss for the last time, cited a poor decision by the referee, saying:

"I'm proud of my players, I can't criticise them as we went out to decisions that didn't go our way.

"They [Sevilla] are a very good side and caused us problems, but we didn't play with the same freedom and weren't as relaxed as we have been in previous rounds.

"It was a stonewall penalty, it was a clear push and everyone in the stadium was waiting for it but it didn't come."

However, Sevilla wrre superb, and McClaren acknowledged that defeat was not solely due to one dubious decision from the officials.

"We lost because we didn't score and didn't take our chances. Sevilla are a quality side, everybody saw that tonight. They can score goals through you, round you and over you.

"I'm leaving behind a team that's capable of achieving, with a great chairman to back it and with the resources to go forward.

"It's a side with a lot of young talent mixed with some good experienced players.

"I've left a platform for what can be achieved and they have the backing of the chairman to go on and succeed."

Boro aptain Gareth Southgate praised Sevilla's players and acknowledged that the Spanish side were worthy winners.

He said: "All credit to Sevilla, they were the better team on the night.

"They are a class side and they fully deserve their victory.

"We pushed forward a lot and left ourselves open at the back and once they got the first goal we were always chasing and it was always going to be difficult.

"We wanted to give the fans one last good night but we have to push on from here."

Club chairman Steve Gibson said he was proud of his side's journey through the tournament and also accepted that the better side won on the night.

"I have no complaints, we were beaten by a better side.

"We have had a great year and a great run but unfortunately we couldn't continue it.

"We'll take it on the chin, dust ourselves down and get on with it."

Striker Mark Viduka felt that his missed chance, that would have put Boro level, could have changed the outcome of the match.

He said: "If I had put my chance away at 1-0 we might have had a good chance. It was definitely a turning point.

"I thought that we could go all the way, we are all hurting now but later on we'll look back on this and realise what we have achieved."

Ecstatic Sevilla striker Fredi Kanoute said: "Middlesbrough have done very well in Europe, but we were better and I'm very happy.

"We were prepared for them to throw on strikers because they have done it before, but this is wonderful and I can't believe it.

"We've been prepared for them playing four strikers, because we know they have had a few games like this."

Sevilla president Jose Maria del Nido said: "We've won nothing since 1948 and now we're Uefa Cup champions.

"Today I am the proudest man in the world. The best is yet to come for this club.

"Now we hope that Barcelona beat Arsenal so we can play them in the European Super Cup in Monaco."

Enzo Maresca, whose two goals played a key part in the vixtory, said: "For the fans and at least half of the city of Seville this will be a great day of celebration.

"We have achieved something very important.

"It was a perfect day. I think we deserve it and so do the fans. It is important that they enjoy this moment."

Posted by soccer365 at 08:23 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)

(Soccer365.com) - Costa Rica strike ace Paulo Wanchope has announced that he will hang his international boots after appearing in World Cup 2006.

The former Manchester City and West Ham United forward has scored 43 times in 67 matches for his country.

"Yes, I'll quit," he told EFE News. "I'm happy with what I've contributed to the squad and it's nice to be able to decide in this way."

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(Soccer365.com) - Bayern Munich chairman Karl-Heinz Rummenigge has revealed that netminder Oliver Kahn was down in the dumps after Jens Lehmann was named as Germany’s World Cup #1 by Jürgen Klinsmann.

The 2002 hero put on a brave face, pledging his support to the coach and the team.

"We were really worried about him," he told Bild. "He was just floored.

"He reacted well," praised Rummenigge. "He's going to quit the national team after the World Cup and concentrate on Bayern Munich."

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Posted by soccer365 at 02:59 PM | Permalink | Comments (8)

(Soccer365.com) - Inter Milan coach Roberto Mancini believes they can emerge victorious from Thursday’s Coppa Italia decider against AS Roma if they avoid organizational mistakes.

The teams shared a pair of goals in the away leg, with the Merazzurri blowing a second half lead.

"Everything went well and as we wanted up to the equalizing goal," recalled Mancini. "We didn't want to concedes spaces to Roma so they could play the way they prefer, and up to that point Roma had created very little."

"Tomorrow's match will obviously be completely different, even if we start with a small advantage," he stated. "We will play to win and we know it won't be an easy match."

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For many, the most familiar player for Poland this summer will be one who has spent much of the past year riding the bench. The hero for Liverpool in the Champions League last year, Jerzy Dudek hasn’t seen much playing time this season after losing his starting job. Still, he remains one of the game’s top keepers and will be in the nets for Poland in Germany.

At the other end, look for Tomasz Frankowski (Wolverhampton) to lead the attack. Though 31 years old, he seems to have found his groove, a fact to which his seven goals during qualifying will attest. Frankowski’s partner up top will likely be Maciej Zurawski (Celtic). A prolific goal-scorer in the Polish league, he is now among the hottest in the Scottish Premier League. Emmanuel Olisadebe (Portsmouth), a naturalized Pole born in Nigeria, and Grzegorz Rasiak (Southampton) give the team other options in attack.

The star of the midfield will likely be Jacek Krzynowek (Bayer Leverkusen) while experienced defender and team captain Tomasz Klos (Wisla Krakow) will anchor the back line.

Poland is not a team loaded with international stars but they are solid at every position and will certainly not be pushovers (as they essentially were in 2002). If popular coach Pawel Janas can pull them together to play as a cohesive unit then Poland just might go far. Maybe not as far as 1974, when they finished third, but the second round is definitely within reach.

Posted by SoccerAdmin at 01:35 PM | Permalink | Comments (6)

(Soccer365.com) - The competition's only match Tuesday saw an undermanned but resilient Chivas squad hold a superior foe to a 0-0 draw.

The quarterfinals of the Libertadores Cup got underway in Guadalajara Tuesday where Velez kept their unbeaten streak going in their ninth game with a dreary 0-0 that puts the Argentineans just where they want to be.

Though the Chivas controlled the ball most of the game, Velez’s efficient defense helped them achieved their objective of not losing the first leg, keeping their unblemished mark in the competition.

Guadalajara began strong on the wings, impeding the visitors from getting comfortable. With so many reserves playing key roles, it was surprising to see that with ten minutes gone, Chivas already had threatened the nets a few times.

After Gaston Sessa cleared a free kick in the 19th minute, the home team unexpectedly changed their approach, attacking from the center, with ineffective predictability.

Velez woke up a bit afterward, and though they did not threaten Luis Michel’s net, they got close.

The second half began sluggishly as both sides were intertwined in the midfield, giving the keepers little to do. The Chivas appeared to get fatigued after playing in two tournaments, knowing they have a game on Thursday. Yet after the 55th they seemed to get a second wind and took control again.

The rematch will be played July 20th in Argentina, something which should help the Guadalajara side, for they should have their six national team players back in the lineup.

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Posted by soccer365 at 09:32 AM | Permalink | Comments (7)

(Goal.com) - Ecuador coach Luis Fernando Suárez has announced his World Cup squad. The South American country are in Group A along with hosts Germany, plus Costa Rica and Poland.

Ecuador's 23-man provisional squad for Germany is as follows:

Goalkeepers: Edwin Villafuerte (Deportivo Quito), Cristian Mora (Liga de Quito) , Damian Lanza (Aucas).

Defenders: Iván Hurtado (Al Arabi - Qatar), Ulises De la Cruz (Aston Villa - England), José Luis Perlaza (Olmedo), Jorge Guagua (El Nacional), Paul Ambrossi, Néicer Reasco & Giovanny Espinoza (Liga de Quito).

Midfielders: Antonio Valencia (Recreativo de Huelva - Spain), Edwin Tenorio (Barcelona), Edison Méndez & Patricio Urrutia (Liga de Quito), Marlon Ayoví & Luis Saritama (Deportivo Quito), Segundo Castillo & Cristian Lara (El Nacional).

Strikers: Iván Kaviedes (Argentinos Juniors - Argentina), Agustín Delgado (Liga de Quito ), Félix Borja & Cristian Benítez (El Nacional), Carlos Tenorio (Al Saad - Qatar).

Posted by soccer365 at 09:15 AM | Permalink | Comments (6)

(Goal.com) - According to the Bologna-based newspaper Il Resto del Carlino, the wiretap scandal that has rocked Italian football over the past week is set to get much, much bigger.

New interceptions made by the Napoli magistrates, while investigating the alleged wrong-doings of Juventus director Luciano Moggi and his son’s player agency company GEA, have reportedly uncovered an intricate system involving referees, players, agents, and clubs that 'fixed' (inluenced the outcomes of) an unknown number of matches last season.

Il Carlino reports that the latest revelations involve another three clubs apart from Juventus - two apparently from the Lombardy region, and Messina.

Furthermore, around five referees, several linesmen, and a group of agents are also alleged to have been part of a syndicate whose aim was to fix the results of targeted matches.

Around 20 games appear to have fallen victim to this insidious network.

On Monday, the investigation's first wiretaps on the Napoli-front - last week’s came from Turin - are expected to be released, and if the evidence is damning it could lead to unimagibable consequences for Italian football’s top club, Juventus, plus a number of other clubs, and an unnkown number of referees, linesmen, agents, and players.

Yesterday’s resignation of Italian Football Federation president, Franco Carraro, appears to have been precipitated by these latest wiretaps.

Phone conversations published last week revealed that Carraro's officials and Juventus general director Moggi had discussed refereeing appointments.

The taps revealed Moggi talking about assigning referees for specific games in Serie A and the Champions League.

Uefa has opened an inquiry into the case and verbally reprimanded Italian referee Pierluigi Pairetto for disclosing confidential information.

According to the transcripts of the phone calls, Pairetto disclosed the names of referees to Moggi.

Pairetto assigned referees for Italian league matches last season and was one of three vice-chairmen of Uefa's referees committee from 2004-06.

The transcripts date from the early months of the 2004-05 season, which ended with Juve being crowned champions.

Moggi’s position appears to be growing increasingly untenable, and todays reports in Il Carlino, if substantiated, could mean his tenure at the Turin giants is coming to an end.

The scandal is dominating Italian football - overshadowing the second leg of the Coppa Italia which takes places on Thursday.

Posted by soccer365 at 09:08 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

(Soccer365.com) - Winger Aimo Diana and striker Christian Vieri will not make Germany trip.

Italy boss Marcelo Lippi has revealed that Sampdoria winger Aimo Diana and Monaco forward Christian Vieri will not be part of his World Cup roster.

"I have very clear ideas about my squad and a few injuries have contributed to clarifying the position," Lippi told ANSA.

"Vieri has an operation on his knee and won't be available, while Diana has a serious groin injury that won't be right in time and so he won't be able to be called up."

Posted by soccer365 at 09:02 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

(Soccer365.com) - Czech stopper Zdenek Grygera is fit and ready for Germany.

Czech Republic defender Zdenek Grygera reports that he has completely recovered from a hamstring problem, and is looking forward to World Cup.

“I am now 100% fit,” the Ajax ace told ELF Football. “But, naturally, I am missing game action.”

“I spoke to (Czech manager Karel Brueckner) recently and he was very happy that I am healthy again.”

The versatile back has been linked to a Serie A move of late, with Juventus considered to be the frontrunners.

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Posted by soccer365 at 08:57 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

(Soccer365.com) - Soca Warriors preparing to handle Swede's most dangerous weapon at Germany '06.

Trinidad & Tobago coach Leo Beenhakker is busy devising a plan to dull the considerable influence of Sweden attacker Zlatan Ibrahimovic at World Cup.

The boss is also concerned with veteran striker Henrik Larsson, but is well aware of the singular type of danger the lanky Juventus dribbler presents.

"Right now, they play so well together it's dangerous whenever one of them has the ball," said Beenhakker. "Those two guys are not just fantastic individual players, they also understand each other incredibly well."

"If you look at Zlatan today, he is a significantly better football player than he was two years ago, when he was a success in the European Championships," he rated.

"He has become stronger both physically and mentally."

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Posted by soccer365 at 08:54 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

(Soccer365.com) - Soccer365 begins an early look at World Cup 2006 first round with a capsule look at Group A. Hosts Germany are the obvious favorites, but squabbling over coach Jürgen Klinsmann’s methods has not exactly pumped the team with confidence. Meanwhile, Costa Rica, Ecuador and Poland will probably arrive feeling they have something to prove.

Costa Rica will be making their third appearance at the finals, and second straight. In 1990, they made it to the second round, where they were dumped by the Czech Republic 4-1.

Man on the spot – The Ticos have been quite competitive and entertaining in their two previous World Cup trips, so coach Alexandre Guimares would be wise to advance from this manageable group. His larger problem may be that most of his key guys are past 30… or is that an asset?

Ace in the Hole - Carlos Hernández may not start, but the 24-year old possesses a top notch strike from distance and must be closely marked near the area. With top attackers Rónald Gómez and Paulo Wanchope getting up there in years, some late offensive relief could fill the doctor’s order.

Outlook - Costa Rica are a fiercely proud unit that probably feels as though they should advance from this group. I’d like to agree, but I simply can’t. If they can scratch a result in the opener against Germany, however, their chances greatly increase.

Ecuador are making their second consecutive appearance. They opened their debut showing with a 1-0 victory over Croatia, but failed to advance after a pair of losses.

Man on the spot – Simply put, Augustin Delgado has to mind himself AND score goals. At times, it seems as though he needs a little bit of chaos to perform with an edge. However, he can make a mark on the game physically, while retaining enough boot magic to keep defenses guessing. If he strikes multiple goals in the first round, they have a shot at advancing.

Aces in the Hole – Franklin Salas got his international goal feet wet in 2004, scoring in both Copa América and the Olympics. Christian Lara has filled in admirably for the often splendid Edison Mendez. Each will need to help open up things for Delgado, but can also do the business when needed.

Outlook – Personable coach Luis Suarez certainly has his work cut out for him. Their CONMEBOL qualification was quite impressive, and the team take well after their workhorse manager. That being said, the old guys are a little too old and the young guys are a little too young. In other words: pack light.

Germany are hosting for the second time, and appearing at a World Cup for the 16th time. They have raised the trophy three times, including at home in 1974, and have finished as runners up four times. Only once, have the team been ousted before the quarterfinals.

Man on the spot – Can you say ‘Klinsmann’? He’s been blasted over his selection process, pulling players away for non-FIFA day friendlies and spending too much time at home in Los Angeles. Regardless of what he did for Die Mannschaft as a player (and these deeds were considerable), he will be thrown on the grill if they don’t at least reach the semifinals.

Ace in the Hole – A lot of folks still consider Miroslav Klose (pictured) to be a one-dimensional aerial threat because of his 2002 performance, but they are mistaken. If opponents think they can allow him space to dribble and distribute outside the area, he will punish them.

Outlook – If class ends up the indicator, Germany will have no problems reaching the next round. My money says there’s no way this team becomes the first home side to fail in the group stage. They got their reputation as tournament opportunists for a good reason.

Poland have claimed their seventh ticket to the finals, and like each of their foes, are repeat participants from 2002. They made three consecutive semifinal showings from 1974 to 1982.

Man on the spot – Shakhtar Donetsk star Mariusz Lewandowski is going to see a little bit of everything at his advanced sweeper position: fast players, physical players, ground game, crosses. Considering the particular attack threats posed by group sides, he really needs to turn in the kind of everywhere-at-once displays that have caught glances from club opponents such as AC Milan, Celtic and Stuttgart over the past two seasons.

Ace in the Hole – Acrobatic NEC Nijmegen forward Andrzej Niedzielan has a knack for the big play. If he could figure how to make the easy plays, he would be a starter. Still, the prospect of facing his brand of bad-angle shot making and trickiness should worry tiring defenders.

Outlook – Things are usually going well for Poland Ebi Smolarek and/or Kamil Kosowski are making people nervous on the dribble. Lewandowski can direct traffic and Maciej Zurawski can finish… it says here those four can provide enough to squeak into the round of 16.

by Greg Seltzer

Join the Soccer.com blog and let us know who you think will advance and if any (yes even Germany) will raise the silver at tourneys end!

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Posted by soccer365 at 06:30 PM | Permalink | Comments (9)

(Soccer365.com) - Trinidad & Tobago coach Leo Beenhakker is busy devising a plan to dull the considerable influence of Sweden attacker Zlatan Ibrahimovic at World Cup.

The boss is also concerned with veteran striker Henrik Larsson, but is well aware of the singular type of danger the lanky Juventus dribbler presents.

"Right now, they play so well together it's dangerous whenever one of them has the ball," said Beenhakker. "Those two guys are not just fantastic individual players, they also understand each other incredibly well."

"If you look at Zlatan today, he is a significantly better football player than he was two years ago, when he was a success in the European Championships," he rated.

"He has become stronger both physically and mentally."

For more soccer news from around the globe visit Soccer365

Posted by soccer365 at 06:29 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Costa Rica’s team has been compared to a plane not quite ready for takeoff. Los Ticos have been trailing behind in friendly matches leading up to the World Cup, with performances that leave fans anxious and disappointed. But with a seemingly stellar lineup of players and a strong team ethic, they are on the verge of truly taking flight.

Gilberto Martinez (Brescia) is a fearless defender who started all three games in the 2002 World Cup. Proving his abilities, he now bears the burden of sorting out the defense for 2006.

Front man Paulo Wanchope (Al-Garafah) has emerged as Costa Rica’s biggest star, becoming the all-time leading goal scorer in Ticos history. While he remains their biggest goal threat, the veteran striker will retire after finals, hoping to inspire his side to go out with a bang reminiscent of their debut performance in Italy 90.

Other team fixtures like midfielder Walter Centeno (Saprissa) and second all-time goal-scorer Rolando Fonseca (CSD Comunicaciones) should provide solid play, with the help of midfielder Jafet Soto’s reliable service. Winger Cristian Bolaños (Saprissa) will be another player likely to shine; he is rated as one of the best young players in the CONCACAF region.

As they embark on their third World Cup, the Ticos’ enthusiasm is as steadfast as it has been in the past finals, where they have proved their abilities. While they may be off to a slow start in recent friendlies, Costa Rica could cause an upset in Group A once they get their act together.

Posted by SoccerAdmin at 03:07 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

(Soccer365.com) - FC Barcelona choses to remain original, by refusing sponsorship deals for their jerseys.

Barcelona president Joan Laporta has announced that the club are rejecting a massive jersey sponsorship deal from a Spanish television station.

“The decision has been made,” he declared. “The Barcelona shirt shall carry no commercial advertising.”

Interest from Australia and China had also bid to become the first sponsor on the famous Catalan kit.

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(Soccer365.com) - New Zealand native Tony Lochhead joined the Revs as a senior international in September last year and has been making his mark since that time. Soccer 365’s Don Cuddy caught up with the well- traveled Kiwi last week and spoke to him about playing in the U.S., time wtih the national team and more...

by Don Cuddy

New Zealand native Tony Lochhead joined the Revs as a senior international in September last year and has been making his way to the fore ever since. The 24 year-old who plays on the left side either as a full back or midfielder made his first start for the Revs in their home opener last Sunday. Soccer 365’s Don Cuddy had a chat with well- traveled Kiwi after the Revs practics on Thursday.

365: How did you end up in this country?
Tony Lochhead: I played in the U-17 World Cup. We played the US in that competition and someone must have seen the tape because I was offered a scholarship at UC Santa Barbara.

365: That must have suited you. Do you sail?
Lochhead: No. Surf. It was great. After class you just grabbed your board and headed right down to the beach.

365: How does soccer rate in New Zealand? You have the All-Blacks and you have cricket first right?
Lochhead: It’s similar to here. Soccer is the number one game played in youth sport but as you get older rugby takes over.

365: Did you play it?
Lochhead: My Dad was a rugby player so I originally started with rugby but then they changed the rules one year. They made it two-hand touch instead of tackle. I thought that was stupid so I tried a season playing soccer basically to get my kicking game sorted but then I started making representative teams and I never went back.

365: Did you ever imagine you would end up in the US?
Lochhead: The goal was to get to Europe. When I was younger I had no idea that there was professional soccer in this country. Then somebody told me about going to school and playing at the same time. There were guys like Simon Elliot and Ryan Nelsen who’d done it so I though that was a good idea, getting an education and playing at a good level.

365: Is there pro soccer in New Zealand?
Lochhead: We have one pro team that plays in the Australian league and the others are semi-pro.

365: I ask everyone this question but how would you describe the Revs style of play?
Lochead: We like to keep it. It’s more of a passing game. In New Zealand and Europe it’s more direct with a big man upfront. The way we train, there’s a lot of passing drills, keep it on the ground, make the ball do the work. That’s how we like to play.”

365: You had your first start in MLS last week. How much notice did you get?
Lochead: That was a bit of a shock. I got home on Saturday at five (from Chile) and one of the guys said: “ By the way, you’re in the team tomorrow.” It was a thirteen- hour trip so it was a little rough.

365: Well you can’t be too disappointed about the performance then.
Lochhead: No. That was my third game in six days so I was feeling it.

365: So how did the pace of the game last week strike you?
Lochhead: The field actually slowed it down a lot. The grass was way too long and the ball was sticky. I wish they cut the grass or watered the grass so the ball would have rolled better because that really hurt our game. If I pass the ball to you and it rolls like that then someone is up your arse.

365: What was it like down in Chile?
Lochhead: It was pretty crazy. There was a lot of whistling and noise although I didn’t understand what they were saying…

365: It probably wasn’t “ Welcome to Chile”Lochhead (laughs) No.

365: Did you get any results down there?
Lochhead: No. We had a pretty young squad. I had twice as many caps as most of the guys playing. We had some guys getting their first or second caps. The first game we got worked a little bit and lost 4-1. Second game was better but we lost 1-0 but it was good experience for us.

365: Was that a competition?
Lochhead: No. They have some new people in charge of the national team and they want to get the team out playing more. Last year we only played one game, which was terrible really. We actually have a game against Brazil on the 4th of June before the World Cup.

365: Where?
Lochhead: Geneva.

365: That’s a friendly then. Do the Revs have to release you?
Lochhead: It’s in the FIFA window so they do actually.

365: Man, you get to go on the field against Brazil! Get a shirt. Which one would you want?
Lochhead: Any of them would do but maybe Ronaldinho.

365: You might have some competition for that but good luck. Hope you get another start against the Galaxy.
Lochhead: Thanks

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(Goal.com) - Portugal’s not-so-shy-and-retiring Coach Luiz Felipe Scolari appeared in public again, proving that reports of agoraphobia in the wake of his atrocious excuse to drop the England post like a hot Yorkshire pudding were bunk.

The tactician commented on what he sees as a tendency towards low-scoring games in modern football – and the potential effects in the impending World Cup. “The new trend in world football is simple: attack with six and defend with eight players”

Pre-empting any claim that Scolari was talking about a 14 or 15-man team, the Coach was referring to the fact that marking obligations tie down teams in a more sober strategy where weighting is placed on the rearguard rather than the spearhead.

“That’s one of the reasons that I really feel that this World Cup won’t exactly be the goalfest that some people are perhaps mistakenly looking forward to”, Felipão explained to German football magazine ‘Kicker’.

Scolari’s glowing gem of a conquest, the World Cup 2002, had a total of 161 goals in 64 games, averaging out at a respectable, yet hardly spectacular, two and a half goals per match. 2004 should have seen him follow it up with a Euro trophy, but Greece led Big Phil to second place sorrow.

He sees the 2006 Portugal as a stronger candidate towards success in Germany than the version seen in Portugal itself for the Euro 2004 tournament. “I believe that we’re now stronger than we were during the Euro 2004. We played through the classifying phase for Germany and that helped considerably” he went on to conclude “We’re now one of the top eight teams in the world.”

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(Soccer365.com) - U.S. defender Cory Gibbs has signed on to join Charlton in July – provided of course, he can acquire a work permit from the UK Home Office.

The Feyenoord castaway is fresh off a loan spell with ADO Den Haag that allowed him to regain fitness after a 10-month knee injury layoff.

Gibbs says he rejected overtures from Bolton, Reading and Middlesbrough.

"Playing Premiership football has always been my dream and I was flattered to have such options," he told the club website. "Having met with the representatives from Charlton I was hugely impressed with the chairman, Richard Murray, and his ambitious plans for the continued development of the club."

"I honestly believe I am joining a club that is ambitious and hungry for success."

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(Goal.com) - Real Madrid right-back Michel Salgado has revealed that he turned down a move to Chelsea as he intends to finish his career at the Santiago Bernabeu.

(Goal.com) - The 30-year-old has been linked with a move away from the Spanish giants following their disappointing campaing.

However, he said defiantly: "I have made it very clear, I don't see myself in any other team.

"I decided to remain at Real Madrid and not go to Chelsea, I did it in order to remain here for life.

"My future is here and I intend to retire here, it would be the best thing for me."

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(Soccer365.com) - Fresh from raising the Gatorade Cup with his teammates, Ajax defender Johnny Heitinga took a moment to speak with Soccer365 about the club’s late season resurrection and his chances of going to World Cup with Oranje.

The team finished 24 points behind repeat champions PSV Eindhoven, but got a measure of revenge by beating the Farmers 2-1 in Rotterdam on Sunday to win their 16th domestic cup.

Ajax also were victorious in the Eredvisie’s new Champions League playoffs, punching their return ticket with series wins over arch nemesis Feyenoord and FC Groningen.

Heitinga has similarly redone his image with a form renaissance in 2006, and caught proper notice: Holland manager Marco van Basten made the versatile back a late addition to his provisional World Cup squad.

Soccer365: How satisfying was it to end the campaign with some big victories?

Johnny Heitinga: For the club, for the team and for myself, it was perfect because this season was not the best for us.

But in the end, we have two prizes: first, the Johan Cruijff Schaal (the preseason cup also won with a 2-1 defeat of PSV), and now the Gatorade Cup. Of course, we also have the Champions League to look forward to.

S365: The supporters gave the team plenty of grief this season, but showed up big at the end of the season. How important is it to have the behind you 100% again?
JH: It is best when the crowd is standing behind you. It is perfect because that’s when you play better football.

S365: Is the “old Ajax” back for next season?
JH: Yes, I think so. Of the last eight games, I think we've won seven. We did well in the playoffs, and played our best in the tough games.

S365: I suppose now you can change your attention towards World Cup?
JH: I will now go to the national team training camp, and then we'll see. Van Basten will fill out the list on the 15th of May, and we will see if I make it.

S365: After a struggle early in the season, your play has returned it’s previous high level. Are you confident of making the final squad?
JH: I'm still hoping. This coming week is big because I can show my skills (to Van Basten).

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(Soccer365.com) - Monaco loan striker Christian Vieri will immediately go under the knife to deal with a late season knee setback, and is highly doubtful for World Cup participation with Italy.

"Given the evolution of the injury, Christian Vieri will undergo surgery in the coming days," read a club statement.

The AC Milan man is being tipped to leave the club this summer, but Monaco have not offered any indication on whether they would want him back on a permanent transfer.

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(Soccer365.com) - Despite some recent wins, Racing Club is replacing Diego Simeone with Reinaldo Merlo.

Diego Simeone, Argentina’s most capped player, will coach his last game with Racing Club Friday.

“Our project has always been with Merlo,” new Racing Club chairman, Fernando de Tomaso, who took over the team last week, told the press Monday. The new chairman was referring to Reinaldo Merlo, who coached River Plate from August ’05 to January 9th, ’06.

Simeone retired as a player with Racing to take over the team, which was in last place without a win. After a dismal start, he managed to drag them out of the cellar, winning their last four games, and brought forth a slew of new players from the lower divisions.

Merlo brought Racing Club back to glory, taking them to the title after a 35-year drought, and quickly becoming a hero with the long-suffering fans.

Yet some fans supported Simeone as they saw the team making progress. Thus the team offered him another job within the organization, which the former midfielder turned down.
‘Cholo’ is certain to receive offers from other teams

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(Soccer365.com) - Rookie Chivas coach Jose Manuel de la Torre, who won his first playoff series against Jagaures on Sunday, said his team put up a maximum effort.

Showing little emotion after the big win, Chivas manager Jose Manuel de la Torre, who earned his first playoff victory as a head coach, made it clear that on any competition, Chivas will respond big, yet he noted that in order to win it all they have to take it one step at a time.

“From the outset we’ve said that if this institution takes part in anything, it’s going to go for it all, we don’t do anything half way and there’s no greater example of this than today.”

“This team is ready for everything, we are very confident because our group has great capacity,” said Chepo. “They’re young, but they’ve done well, giving us a lot to look forward to. We are taking it step by step, day by day achieving objectives, making dreams come true.”

Considering all the obstacles in their way, the young Guadalajara manager qualified the Chivas comeback win, after falling at home 3-2, as an act of great personality.

“I think the team made it with great personality, knowing all the adversity we had, but we had to fight until the last minute, if we wanted to get the qualification, and fortunately it turned out. I think the mentality and personality they showed was key.”

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(Goal.com) - Manchester United will allow Ruud van Nistelrooy to join the highest bidder, according to the Guardian.

The Dutchman stormed out of Old Trafford on Sunday after learning that he was not in the starting line-up for the match with Charlton.
Manager Sir Alex Ferguson is known to have become frustrated with the player’s attitude since he was left out of the Carling Cup final against Wigan in February.

Ferguson spoke at length with his chief executive David Gill yesterday and it appears that the player is free to leave the club, as long as a suitable offer is made.

The player has been told that he is not welcome at Roy Keane’s testimonial tonight, and an insulted van Nistelrooy has flown off to the Netherlands to join a pre-World Cup training camp.

The former PSV Eindhoven star is the latest in a long line of players to have been shown the door after incurring the wrath of Ferguson.

There will be no shortage of takers for the 29-year-old, with some of the biggest clubs in Italy, Spain and England likely to be interested.

Posted by soccer365 at 09:02 AM | Permalink | Comments (18)

(Soccer365.com) - For Sevilla attacker Javier Saviola a win over Middlesborough in the UEFA Cup final would be twice as sweet.

Sevilla striker Javier Saviola revealed that a UEFA Cup final victory over Middlesbrough is doubly important for him.

"For an Argentinian, victory over an English club is always sensational," he grinned. "Many people in my country are now fans of Sevilla for this reason alone."

"I want to bring joy to my friends," said the Little Rabbit.

"Boro are a challenging team to play, as the last two rounds have shown."

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(Soccer365.com) - Ligue 1's top goalkeeper the last four years, Lyon's Gregory Coupet, has his eyes set on a Les Bleus starting spot.

Fresh from being named Ligue 1’s top keeper for the fourth consecutive season, Lyon star Gregory Coupet admitted that he was intent on starting for France at World Cup.

"I am very, very proud of that reward," he said. "The icing on the cake would be to become a first-team member during the World Cup."

"It is an obsession," admitted Coupet. "If I am not, obviously I will need some time to cheer up."

"I prefer to not think about it as it could be so traumatic."

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(Soccer365.com) - Houston striker, Brian Ching was honored by the MLS as its top player for April.

Just days after being named to the U.S. roster for the FIFA World Cup, Houston Dynamo forward Brian Ching has earned April’s MLS Player of the Month honor. Ching’s six goals in five games during the opening month of the MLS season placed him atop the League scoring table. He also tallied one assist in April.

Ching opened May with a goal and an assist in the Dynamo’s 4-3 victory over FC Dallas and he now leads the league in scoring with seven goals in six games. He scored four in the Dynamo’s opening game versus Colorado on April 2, making him the only player to score a hat trick so far this season. Ching leads the League in shots on goal (14) and he is tied with teammate Dwayne DeRosario for most game winning goals (2). The Dynamo is now 4-2-0 and sits in first place in the Western Conference, one point ahead of FC Dallas.

Ching, who is from Haleiwa, Hawaii, now has 33 career goals in 70 regular season games. He scored seven goals and notched five assists in 2005. This is the first time in his career that Ching has been named MLS Player of the Month.

The MLS Player of the Month is selected following the last game of each month throughout the regular season by a panel of journalists from the Professional Soccer Reporters Association (PSRA). The PSRA votes among players nominated by their respective teams.

About Major League Soccer

Headquartered in New York City, Major League Soccer is the top-flight professional soccer league in the United States and features many stars from the U.S. and around the world. Now in its 11th season, the 12 teams in MLS are: the Chicago Fire, Colorado Rapids, Chivas USA, Columbus Crew, D.C. United, FC Dallas, Houston Dynamo, Kansas City Wizards, Los Angeles Galaxy, Red Bull New York, New England Revolution and Real Salt Lake. For more information about MLS, log on to the League’s official Web site at www.MLSnet.com.

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Posted by soccer365 at 08:40 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)

In theory, Germany should be the favorites to win the World Cup. They have a tradition of winning (three previous World Cup titles), they were runners-up in 2002 and this year they have an added home-field advantage. Reality can be very different than theory, however.

There is no denying the fact that Germany has wealth of young talent. Their list of rising stars includes defender Robert Huth (Chelsea), midfielder Bastian Schweinsteiger (Bayern Munich) and forward Lukas Podolski (FC Köln), all three of whom are under the age of 22. The question is, are they truly ready to take on the world’s best?

Having automatically qualified as the host, Germany didn’t have to face a tough qualification schedule. That left coach Jurgen Klinsmann freedom to experiment and he has had his team playing a faster, more attack-oriented style. This has met with mixed results, however, and though Germany has scored more goals, they have also given up far too many. Klinsmann came under recent criticism after his team was crushed 4-1 by Italy in early March.

One of the keys to German success will be Michael Ballack (Bayern Munich), generally regarded as one of the top playmakers in the world. And though he is nearing the end of his international career, Oliver Kahn (Bayern Munich) remains one of the top –and most intimidating- goalkeepers in the world.

Klinsmann still has a lot of work to do in a short time. If his veterans take charge and create some goal-scoring opportunities, his young players can step up and show maturity beyond their years, and he can shore up the defense then, well… who knows?

Posted by SoccerAdmin at 12:44 PM | Permalink | Comments (15)

(Soccer365.com) - Chivas, Toluca, San Luis and Pachuca make semifnals

Cruz Azul 1 – 1 Toluca

Underdog Toluca came into Cruz Azul’s home stadium and wrapped up the series and their semifinals pass with a 1-1 (3-2 aggregate) tie.

In a flashback of last season’s clash between the two teams, Cruz Azul could not overcome the 2-1 loss at Toluca.

Switching between 5-2-3 and a 4-3-3 formations, the Red Devils scored in the 8th minute when Vicente Sanchez found Ismael Valadez for the goal.

Finally, Miguel Sabah got the Blue Machine on the board in the injury time, but they fell short by one goal, as the defending champions, Toluca moved on.

Toluca will play San Luis in the semifinals, with the first leg to be played at Toluca Wed May 10th.

Atlante 0 – 0 San Luis

In another upset, San Luis, who needed some last-minute fireworks to slip into the playoffs and avoid relegations, shut-out Atlante 0-0 away and managed to hold onto their 1-0 home win in the first leg to advance to the semifinals.

The Tuneros could have won the game outright, but Octavio Valdez missed a penalty kick and Emilio Mora hit the left post.

A fan hit assistant Jose de Jesus Torres with a projectile, for which Atlante will be penalized with a closed match.

Atlante’s elimination also means there are no teams from the capital, as Cruz Azul was also eliminated, and Pumas and America failed to qualify.

San Luis will play Toluca in the semifinals, with the first leg to be played at Toluca Wed May 10th.

Chiapas 2 – 4 Guadalajara

10-man Chivas defeated favored Jaguares away 4-2 (6-5) with a dramatic injury time goal to advance to the Clausura ’06 semis.

Bringing home a 3-2 advantage, Jaguares struck early (22 seconds) and looked to be in firm control of the game.

Chilean Walter Jiménez hit the net off a Salvador Cabañas pass down the right flank for the quick lead.

Chivas answered, however, as Edwin Borboa struck from the left in the 23rd to even the game.

And in the 32nd, ex-Necaxa stopper, Diego Martinez sent a ball through the keeper’s legs for the improbable lead and aggregate tie at 4-4.

The cats woke up in the second half as Guarani hit man, Salvador Cabañas buried a penalty kick in the 52nd to level the game, a score which would have been enough for the home team.

But Chivas had other ideas.

Eccentric striker, #100 nailed a penalty in the 84th to put the flock back on top, but ‘Bofo’ was sent off a minute later for hitting Chilean Ismael Fuentes.

In stoppage time, an unmarked Johnny Garcia rebounded a center into the box for the go-ahead score that sent the goats to the semifinals, and left the crowd at Tuxtla Gutierrez stunned.

Guadalajara will play Pachuca in the semis, beginning Thursday, May 11th at home.

Pachuca 3 – 1 Morelia

The Gophers would have gone through with an aggregate draw, but the 3-1 home win over the Monarchs, who finished with nine men, gave Pachuca the 4-3 series win and semifinals qualification.

Just like in the first leg, Richard Nuñez opened the scoring, this time in the 3rd minute, taking a Luis Landin pass, evading his man, and drilling the net where Moises Muñoz could do nothing to stop it.

“Pepino” Cuevas drove the ball from his own area and rifled home with his left boot to give his side the 2-0.

Pachuca was not content with that.

Luis Angel Landin got free and put himself in position to tap in the third goal of the game for the home team in the 57th minute.

With 10 men, after losing Cristian Nasuti in the 61st minute, Morelia’s last gasp yielded a Luis Gabriel Rey score in the 71st minute, making things interesting for the home team in the last half hour.

Morelia lost its second player, Damian Alvarez, sent off in the 80th minute, leaving them with nine men.

Pachuca will begin the semifinals at Guadalajara Thursday, May 11th.

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Posted by soccer365 at 12:17 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)

(Soccer365.com) - With a game to spare, Boca Juniors won their second straight Argentine league championship, 22nd overall, and fourth title in a year.

Independiente 0 – 2 Boca Juniors

Boca Juniors won the Argentine championship for the second year running with a 2-0 victory at Independiente on Sunday.

Aces Rodrigo Palacio and Martin Palmermo did what they do best, scoring in each half, and setting each other up, as Boca sealed the title with a game to spare.

The first goal was scored by striker Rodrigo Palacio in the 36th minute, after receiving a pinpoint pass from Martín Palermo shot behind the backs of Independiente’s defenders.

The man from Bahía, Palacio crouched and sent the ball overhead of the keeper and into the net at about its mid-height.

A minute into the second half Palacio outran his markers on the left side of the field, sent a cross into the heart of the rival area which found, as usual, Palermo who buried the Reds and the rest of the Argentine league with his 11th goal of the season.

“We get along great,” said Palacio, of his relationship with Palermo, a duo which has scored 33 times this season. “I feel like he gave me more passes but today we both scored and we’re both leaving happy.”

With 40 points from 18 games, the Xeneixes took an unassailable six-point lead over second-placed Lanús in the Clausura championship, the second of two separate league tournaments played in the Argentine season.

Led by Argentina's 1994 World Cup coach Alfio Basile, Boca completed a double after winning the Apertura championship played in the second half of 2005.

“The players earned this,” said Alfio ‘Coco’ Basile after the game. “I have a great team and we were the best.”

Boca have now won 22 titles in the various formats used since Argentine football turned professional in 1931 but are still 10 behind archrivals, River Plate.

They have won every competition they have competed in since Basile took over last June, four titles, including the Copa Sudamericana, played last December and the Recopa.

“The boys never let me down.”

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Posted by soccer365 at 12:13 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)

(Goal.com) - England manager Sven-Goran Eriksson named three question-mark strikers -- Rooney, Owen and Walcott -- to his preliminary 23-man World Cup roster.

Newcastle United striker Michael Owen made the list, as did broken-footed Wayne Rooney and 17-year-old prodigy Theo Walcott, who has yet to feature for Arsenal since moving to London from Southampton in January. Liverpool's Peter Crouch was the other striker named to the squad.

On Walcott, Eriksson said, "I decided to take Theo this morning. I am taking 23 players so I thought why not gamble with one of them? I know it is a gamble but he is a big talent. Pace in football is worth a lot. I’m excited by him, I can’t wait to work with him."

Tottenham's Jermain Defoe and Crystal Palace's Andrew Johnson are on stand-by as alternates, which mean's Charlton's revelation, striker Darren Bent, is not in Sven's plans.

FULL ROSTER
GK: Paul Robinson (Tottenham), David James (Manchester City), Robert Green (Norwich City)

DEF: Gary Neville (Man United), Rio Ferdinand (Man United), John Terry (Chelsea), Ashley Cole (Arsenal), Sol Campbell (Arsenal), Jamie Carragher (Liverpool), Wayne Bridge (Chelsea)

MID: David Beckham (Real Madrid), Michael Carrick (Spurs), Frank Lampard (Chelsea), Steven Gerrard (Liverpool), Owen Hargreaves (Bayern Munich), Jermaine Jenas (Spurs), Stewart Downing (Middlesbrough), Joe Cole (Chelsea), Aaron Lennon (Spurs)

FWD: Wayne Rooney (Man United), Michael Owen (Newcastle), Peter Crouch (Liverpool), Theo Walcott (Arsenal)

ALTERNATES:

GK: Scott Carson (Liverpool)

DEF: Luke Young (Charlton)

MID: Nigel Reo-Coker (West Ham)

FWD: Jermain Defoe (Tottenham), Andrew Johnson (Crystal Palace)

Posted by soccer365 at 12:10 PM | Permalink | Comments (16)

(Goal.com) - Independiente’s shining new star Sergio Agüero has finally admitted that his future is most likely going to be in the ranks of Atlético Madrid.

The player said that it was "highly probable" that the game against Olimpo would be "my last match in Argentinean football". Agüero, one of the keys in the 2-0 win over Olimpo at the Carminatti stadium, is out of the upcoming duel with Boca.

In the Olimpo game ref Diego Abal carded the on-form striker for a sliding tackle in a rather rigid application of the rulebook, meaning a fifth card and consequent absence against almost-champions Boca Juniors.

"Despite having won at Bahía I’m sad that I can’t help my team against Boca at Avellaneda and that I could have played my last match in Argentine football", the centre-forward marksman told Argentinean station TyC Sports.

When asked about a transfer that the Independiente hierarchy roundly deny, Agüero tried a timid "dunno", but went on to tacitly admit that his future lies outside Independiente. "There’s a lot of talk about whether I stay or go; all I can say is that I don’t think I’ll play next season with Independiente", said the Reds idol. “If my sale helps the club, then I’m a happy man”. As happy as many ‘Colchonero’ fans in Madrid will be if the impending news is confirmed...

Aaron Marcus

Posted by soccer365 at 09:47 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

(Goal.com) - Arsenal fans look away now. The latest rumour about star striker Thierry Henry is that while all the speculation has been about a possible move to Spain, to Barcelona or possibly Real Madrid, Serie A heavyweights AC Milan have made a blind-side run and are tempting Titi to switch to the San Siro.

Reports in Italy at the weekend claimed that Henry fancies a Milan move.

Although it infuriates Gunners fans, the media on the continent seem to take it as read that the 29-year-old Frenchman - who concluded Arsenal's Premiershop campaign, and their occupancy of Highbury, with a trademark hat-trick against Wigan on Sunday - will leave Arsenal in the summer, as he has not yet signed an extension to a contract that expires in June 2007.

With another 33 goals under his belt this seaon, and the Champions League Final to come, Henry is undoubtedly one of the most sought after assets in world football. We know he is a confirmed target for both Internazionale patron Massimo Moratti and Barcelona.

Italian newspapers are claiming that Henry wants to return to Serie A, where he had a brief spell as a winger with Juventus in 1998-99, and that his preferred employers would be Milan, where he would partner Andriy Shevchenko and Kaka.

The Rossoneri have been in two of the last four Champions League Finals and reached the last eight every season since winning it in 2003.

It is further asserted (in Italy) that Arsenal would let their captain go for around £10 million - which seems ludicrously low for a player of his stature but is probably a figure arrived at because he has only a year left on his Arsenal contract.

It could be argued, of course, that Milan's priority ought to be revitalising their aging defense.

Posted by soccer365 at 09:41 AM | Permalink | Comments (10)

(Soccer365.com) - Barcelona assistant Henk ten Cate, not Danny Blind, will take over the helm at Ajax.

Ajax will be coached by Henk ten Cate next season, according to directors of the Amsterdam club.

Directors revealed the appointment of Ten Cate to Dutch TV as the Ajax players celebrated their 2-1 win over PSV Eindhoven in the Gatorade Cup final. It was not immediately clear whether current coach Danny Blind will remain at the club in another capacity.

Ten Cate has been working as number two to Frank Rijkaard at Barcelona who have just won the Spanish title and will play Arsenal in the Champions League final in Paris on May 27.

Ajax only finished fourth in the regular season Eredivisie, but have ended the season well by winning the play-offs for a Champions League spot and now winning the domestic cup.

The reports, on SBS channel, said that the directors had confirmed at the stadium that Ten Cate was the new man.

Ten Cate has previously said that no decision will be taken on his future until after the Champions League final.

Blind, told about the report, told SBS: "This is no surprise to me. I have already said for weeks that something is going on."

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Posted by soccer365 at 09:36 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

(Soccer365.com) - New England, Houston, Colorado and Salt Lake earned MLS victories on Saturday.

Shalrie Joseph scored twice as New England drilled two-time MLS Cup conquerors Los Angeles 4-0.

U.S. World Cup alternates Taylor Twellman and Steve Ralston added first half goals for the victors.

Meanwhile, Brian Ching and Dwayne DeRosario each had a goal and an assist as Houston edged out Dallas 4-3.

Eddie Johnson leveled just after halftime as Kansas City drew at ones with Chicago.

Nicolas Hernandez netted his first career goal with five minute to play as Colorado rallied for a 2-1 win over previously unbeaten D.C. United.

Jason Garey likewise made his first MLS goal a winner, lifting Columbus past Real Salt Lake 1-0 in the 70th minute.

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Posted by soccer365 at 08:51 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

(Soccer365.com) - Abby Wambach's hat trick gives the US Women a 3-1 comeback victory over Japan.

The U.S. Women’s National Soccer Team let in a goal less than three minutes into the match, but tied the game just before halftime and got two more goals in the second half, all courtesy of striker Abby Wambach, to record a 3-1 victory over Japan on a rainy, misty day at KK Wing Stadium.

Japan shocked the U.S. team early as they scored off a corner kick when Azusa Iwashimizu got her head on Aya Miyama’s cross from the right side. The 10-yard shot flew past fully extended U.S. goalkeeper Hope solo, off the inside of the right post and bounced just over the goal line. It was the first international goal in just her second full international match for the 19-year-old Iwashimizu, who recently captained of the Japanese U-20 team in their failed attempt to qualify for the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Championship in Russia.

The goal marked the first time the U.S. team had fallen behind under head coach Greg Ryan, who was coaching his 17th game at the helm, and now has an all-time record of 13-0-4.

It took the USA until the 40th minute to get the equalizer, and that came on an extremely generous penalty kick decision from referee Pannipar Kamnueng of Thailand. The foul occurred in the 37th minute as U.S. captain Kristine Lilly lifted a pass into the left side of the penalty area for the charging Wambach. The U.S. forward and Japanese goalkeeper Miho Fukumoto crashed into each other inside the penalty area, with Fukumoto appearing to clear the ball just before contact, but Kamnueng pointed to the spot.

Fukomoto needed medical attention after her collision with the 5-foot-11 Wambach and the penalty shot wasn’t taken until the 40th minute, but Wambach shrugged off the delay and buried her chance into the right corner. Wambach, who missed her shot in the penalty shootout during the Algarve Cup championship game against Germany last Match, made no mistake this time, driving the ball low into the net as Fukumoto went the wrong way.

The field was quite slick after a night of rainfall and a steady fell mist during the game. The conditions made the playing surface extremely fast, but the Americas did well to pressure the Japanese in the midfield and the hosts managed just three shots on goal over the match, only two after scoring early on. Midfielder Shannon Boxx was a force in the middle of the field for the USA, winning countless tackles and sending several Japanese players flying on fifty-fifty challenges.

Wambach foreshadowed her big day just 40 seconds into the game as two header flicks after a long punt by Solo got her in behind the defense in the right side of the penalty area. Wambach smacked her shot to the far post, but Fukumoto dove low to her right to snag it. The Japanese goalkeeper, playing in just her seventh career match in place of injured starter Nozomi Yamago, did extremely well, showing confidence beyond her experience, but could do nothing on the winning goal.

It came in the 72nd minute after defender Cat Whitehill blasted a clearance from midway in the USA defensive half that flew far into the Japanese half over their back line and into the path of the thundering Wambach. She out-muscled a Japanese defender, who fell sprawled on the turf, then burst into the penalty box and smacked a left-footed shot off Fukomoto’s leg and into the roof of the net from 13 yards out.

Japan, which had seemed content with a draw when the score was 1-1, picked up the urgency in the last 15 minutes in search of a tying goal, but Solo came up with four big plays to diffuse any thoughts of a comeback. She made two tough catches in traffic, in the 78th and 88th minutes, punched a ball away from danger on another cross, and with a sliding smother, also swept a ball off the feet of a Japanese forward who had flashed through in the right side of the penalty area.

With Japan pressing forward, the U.S. stuck in one more, courtesy of some hard work from Lilly, who was playing in her world record 307th career match.

Lilly powered past Japanese captain Hiromi Isozaki on the left side of goal box all the way to the end line and then lifted a short pass in the air back to Wambach at the near post. Falling backwards, Wambach delicately re-directed the ball with her head from an almost impossible angle, bouncing it inside the right post from just four yards out.

The goals upped Wambach’s international total to 54 in just 71 games. It was also her fourth career hat track, which includes one five-goal game against Ireland in 2004.

The two teams will meet again in the second leg of the two-game tour on Tuesday, May 9, in Osaka as part of a doubleheader that also features the Japan Men’s National Team against Bulgaria. The U.S. team left for Osaka immediately after the game and will conduct one training session in Japan’s third largest city on Monday before finishing the tour on Tuesday at Nagai Stadium, which hosted matches in the 2002 FIFA World Cup.

Sierra Mist Woman of the Match: Abby Wambach

Scoring Summary:
JPN -- Azusa Iwashimizu (Aya Miyama) 3rd minute.
USA -- Abby Wambach (Penalty Kick) 40.
USA -- Abby Wambach (Cat Whitehill) 72.
USA -- Abby Wambach (Kristine Lilly) 89.

USA - 18-Hope Solo; 2-Heather Mitts, 4-Cat Whitehill, 14-Amy LePeilbet (8-Tina Frimpong, 46), 3-Christie Rampone (15-Stephanie Lopez, 59); 7-Shannon Boxx, 11-Carli Lloyd (12-Leslie Osborne, 83), 5-Lindsay Tarpley (10-Aly Wagner, 71); 9-Heather O’Reilly (6-Natasha Kai, 70), 20-Abby Wambach, 13-Kristine Lilly – Capt.
Subs not used: 1-Briana Scurry, 19-Christie Welsh.
Head Coach: Greg Ryan

JPN - 12-Miho Fukumoto; 2-Hiromi Isozaki – Capt., 7-Kozue Ando, 5-Kyouko Yano, 14-Azusa Iwashimizu; 6-Tomoe Sakai, 10-Homare Sawa, 19-Shinobu Ohno (23-Rumi Utsugi 75), 18-Iya Miyama, 11-Mio Otani (9-Eriko Arakawa, 63), 20-Yuki Nagasato (16-Karina Maruyama, 78).
Subs not used: 4-Nao Shikata, 13-Maiko Nakaoka, 15-Tomoko Suzuki, 17-Emi Yamamoto, 21-Tomomi Akiyama, 22-Nayuha Toyoda.
Head Coach: Hiroshi Ohashi

Misconduct Summary:
USA – Carli Lloyd (caution) 41st minute.

Referee: Pannipar Kamnueng (Thailand)
Asst. Referee: Hisae Yoshizawa (Japan)
Asst. Referee: Satomi Hamasaki (Japan)
4th Official: Hong Eun Ha (Korea Republic)
Attendance: 6,681
Weather: Rain, misty – 65 degrees

courtesy of ussoccer.com

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Posted by soccer365 at 08:44 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

(Goal.com) - Arsenal striker Thierry Henry has today been named the Premiership Player of the Season.

It is the Frenchman's latest award, as the 28-year-old was also named this season's football writers' player of the year.

He is the Premiership's top goalscorer with 24 strikes so far, although this hasn't inspired the Gunners enough this season as they currently lie in fifth place with a game to go.

Matt Appleby, from the Barclays Awards Panel, said: "Henry has graced Arsenal's last season at Highbury in magnificent style.

"He combines moments of brilliance and entertainment with match-winning goals.

"No wonder he was described by one opposition manager as 'unplayable'."

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Posted by soccer365 at 04:38 PM | Permalink | Comments (7)

(Soccer365.com) - Atlético Madrid striker Fernando Torres has once again poured cold water on speculation that he could leave the club this summer.

The Spain international has oft been linked to the likes of Arsenal and Barcelona.

"The press are always talking about me going and recently the speculation has been stronger, probably because we are near a World Cup," Torres said. "But my plan is to stay here for the next three years."

"I have always said I want to be in the side that returns Atlético to where it deserves to be."

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Posted by soccer365 at 04:37 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

(Goal.com) - Borussia Dortmund defender Christian Wörns has been banned for four games by the Deutsche Fussball Bund (DFB) for elbowing Nürnberg's Stefan Kießling during a recent Bundesliga game.

Wörns, 33, assaulted his opponent when Kießling was looking in the opposite direction during Dortmund's 2-1 win. He misses Dortmund's final two games of the current season against Eintracht Frankfurt and Bayern Munich as well as the opening fixtures of next season.

The experienced stopper was recently in the news for the manner in which Germany coach Jürgen Klinsmann dropped the 66-times capped defender from his World Cup plans.

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Posted by soccer365 at 04:35 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

(Goal.com) - Liverpool legend Robbie Fowler will prolong is second spell at Anfield as he has earned himself a new one-year contract with the Reds.

Fowler has scored four goals for Liverpool since his shock return on a free transfer from Manchester City in January.

Coach Rafael Benitez has kept his cards close to his chest over whether Fowler would get a new contract, but the fans favourite will be staying on for at least one more season.

"I had been treating every game as though it could be my last for Liverpool," said Fowler.

"Now I've got the incentive of knowing I'll get more chances to wear the red shirt. I would love to be part of a Liverpool side that wins the title."

While Benitez added: "This is fantastic news. Robbie has done really well and he deserves this.

"He has scored vital goals for us and has worked really hard. I am delighted to have him with us for next season, he is an important member of our squad."

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Posted by soccer365 at 04:34 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

(Soccer365.com) - Fiorentina general manager Pantaleo Corvino is keeping quiet over rumours that Inter Milan have made an overture for Serie A top scorer Luca Toni.

"For the next two weeks we will not talk about the transfer market," he said.

"Now all our efforts are on obtaining a Champions League qualification that only a few months ago was just a dream."

Toni has scored 28 league goals, and is the frontrunner for the European Golden Boot.

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Posted by soccer365 at 04:33 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)

(Soccer365.com) - Romario looking to emulate Pelé and Arthur Friedenreich in natting 1000 goals.

Set for his Miami FC debut against Rochester, Brazil strike legend Romário says he came to the States to get the last 36 goals needed to reach the millennium mark.

"I haven't come to the USA for money," he declared. "I keep on playing because I have football in my veins and because I enjoy it."

"I am prepared to make my debut in this championship and I expect to keep on scoring goals because that is a gift that God gave to me."

Romário was a member of the winning side when Brazil claimed the 1994 World Cup title in America.

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Posted by soccer365 at 12:30 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

(Soccer365.com) - Galaxy stopper to step in for Hejduk who is out with torn ACL.

Chris Albright has been added to the USA’s 23-man roster for the 2006 FIFA World Cup, replacing defender Frankie Hejduk who today was diagnosed with a torn ACL in his right knee. Albright will join the U.S. training camp on May 10 in Cary, N.C.

"I deeply regret having to replace Frankie Hejduk on the roster. Frankie has been a great member of the national team program for many years. Unfortunately this last minute injury has forced us to make a change," said U.S. Manager Bruce Arena. "I'm delighted to be able to offer Chris Albright an opportunity to be a member of our team. As the case with all of our alternates, they need to be prepared in case a situation like this occurs."

Hejduk, a two-time World Cup veteran, suffered the injury during the Crew’s 1-0 loss to Kansas City on April 29 in Columbus. Despite the injury, Hejduk completed the match as well as a full training session Tuesday before experiencing pain in his knee. An MRI taken this afternoon confirmed the ACL injury.

Albright, who was named to the 13-player alternate list for the World Cup during the official announcement on the May 2 edition of SportsCenter, has appeared in 19 matches for the United States. He scored his lone goal in his debut match, a 2-2 draw against Jamaica on Sept. 8, 1999 in Kingston. Capable of playing on the right or left side of defense, he played in five final round qualifying matches in 2005, starting four. Albright posted his first career assist in 2005, setting up the game-winning goal in the United States' 2-0 qualifying win against Panama on Oct. 12 in Foxborough, Mass.

Albright started all six of the U.S. matches at the 2000 Sydney Olympics, registering two goals and an assist. The Los Angeles Galaxy defender has won two MLS Cup titles with the Galaxy (2002 & 2005), assisting on Carlos Ruiz's game-winning goal to give the Galaxy their first title.

The USA was drawn into Group E for the 2006 FIFA World Cup along with the Czech Republic, Ghana, and Italy. The U.S. plays their opening match against the Czechs on June 12 in Gelsenkirchen before meeting Italy on June 17 in Kaiserslautern and then finishing off group play against Ghana on June 22 in Nuremberg. The U.S. has chosen the northern port city of Hamburg as their base of operations throughout the tournament.

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Posted by soccer365 at 12:26 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)

(Soccer365.com) - The final three Copa Libertadores quarterfinals tickets are punched, as River Plate, Libertad and Estudiantes move on.

Corinthians 1 – 3 River Plate

The Copa Libertadores action in Brazil saw River Plate drown Carlos Tevez’s Corinthians 3-1 (6-3 aggregate) in a dismal performance from the Timão, as the Millonarios move through to the quarterfinals.

River’s Gonzalo Higuain scored a brace to knock the spendthrift Corinthians out of the tourney; yet the game will be remembered for the rioting fans who forced the match to be abandoned.

After tearing down the perimeter fence and invading the pitch, the rage turned towards the execs that had promised a Libertadores conquest, but had delivered yet another let-down to the faithful Fiel supporters.

The trouble began as the fans angrily flocked out of the stadium following the goal that effectively dumped them out of the prestigious South American competition.

Around 20 truncheon-wielding riot police held the fans back while referee Carlos Chandia led the teams quickly off the pitch.

A police spokesman said six people had been injured and were being treated in hospital, though it was not clear what their injuries were.

The spokesman also mentioned acts of vandalism outside the stadium, where fans threw stones at passing cars.

At least two Corinthians supporters got on to the pitch by scaling the fence and were dragged away by police.

Nilmar got the home team on the board with a header in the 39th minute and Dyego Coelho blundered in an own goal that leveled the game and took the steam out of the Timão attack.

Then Gonzalo Higuain’s lethal right foot went to work on the net: the 19-year-old midfielder put River ahead for good in the 72nd minute off a Marcelo Gallardo assist, then added another in the 82nd to send the home fans into angry fits, which turned to violence.

“It was a very pretty win,” said Passarella, who also praised the referee for calling the game.

River welcomes Libertad on May 10th and travel to Paraguay for the return leg on May 17th.

Libertad 0 – 0 UANL (5-3 pen)

In perhaps the toughest match-up of the entire tournament, Libertad out-shot the reeling Tigres 5-3 in a penalty shootout after neither team could break through after two entire games and thereby qualifies to the quarterfinals.

The penalty shootout went like this:

For Libertad: Roberto Gamarra, Rodrigo López, Pedro Sarabia, Edgar Robles y el peruano Martín Hidalgo.

For Tigres: Sixto Peralta, Alfredo Moreno y Javier Saavedra, while a try by Paraguayan Emilio Martinez went over the crossbar.

The Gumarelo have been one of the toughest defensive teams in the tournament, allowing a mere three goals in the competition.

Libertad play at River Plate May 10th and return home for the second leg on May 17th.

Goias 3 – 1 Estudiantes

Despite getting clobbered 3-1 at Goias, Estudiantes edged by on goal-difference thanks to their 2-0 home victory last week and advance to the quarterfinals.

Trailing 2-0 after Vitor (52) and Nonato (66) scored for the home squad, Jose Luis Calderon took a pass from Pavone and nailed the key goal in the 76th minute.

Nevertheless, the Brazilians made life hard on the Pincharratas as two minutes from time Juliano nailed a long-range shot, which proved too late as the Argentines celebrated the qualification.

Estudiantes play at Sao Paulo May 10th and the rematch in Argentina May 17th.

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Posted by soccer365 at 11:03 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

(Soccer365.com) - Chivas lose at home and Monarchs shock top-ranked Pachuca

Guadalajara 2 – 3 Chiapas

Playing with a good deal of youngsters as they are also contending for the Copa Libertadores, the Chivas allowed a late goal that sunk them 3-2 against a scrappy Jaguares looking for history.

The flock got on the board first when Edwin Borboa passed to Sergio Avila, who shook off a double-team to bury a cross in the 33rd minute.

Paraguayan attacker, Salvador Cabañas cashed in on a Chivas defensive lapse when he launched a header off a center from Alonso Sandoval.

The felines’ experience showed through in the 51st when goalkeeper “Gato” Ortiz kicked a long clearance, which Cabañas latched onto and drilled hard for the 2-1 lead.

Alberto Medina hit with his right leg off a Bofo Bautista assist in the 85th minute to even the scoreboard.

As the Chivas began feeling some relief with thoughts of a draw, Edoardo Isella found Alonso Sandoval who rifled in with his left foot in the stoppage time to give the cats the away victory.

Now Chivas has to win by at least two goals at Chiapas Saturday, May 6th to advance.

Morelia 2 – 1 Pachuca

They barely made it into the playoffs, and now the Monarchs rose up to nip the top-seeded Tuzos 2-1 at home to grab an edge in the aggregate series.

Uruguyan strike ace Richard Nuñez struck a free kick in the 3rd minute and it looked like the Clausura’s best side would romp at Estadio Morelos.

But the Monarchs had other ideas. Not swayed by Pachuca’s lofty record, Rafael Marquez headed home a Fernando Arce center in the 22nd minute to level the game at 1, where it looked to stay until the 90th minute.

Luis Gabriel Rey was the Monarch of the match, as he buried a stoppage time header to seal the home team’s win and the fans’ celebration.

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Posted by soccer365 at 10:41 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)

(Goal.com) - The Libertadores action in Brazil saw Daniel Passarella’s River Plate drown Carlitos Tevez’s Corinthians in a wishy-washy performance from the Timão that see the Millonarios surprisingly going through in their lucky year: the two trophies back at the Monumental de Núñez were won in 1986 and 1996, leading hopeful River fans to dream of a third conquest this very year.

In the wake of a surprising classification for the quarter-finals of the Libertadores Cup, River Plate managed an ‘encore’ of their 2003 performance and eliminated the Timão smack bang in the middle of hostile territory: Pacaembu stadium in the city of São Paulo.

After a game that saw a rising tide of violence force the ref to call an early end to the match as fans tore down the fence and started to invade the pitch. There was also a scare for visiting Chelsea boss José Mourinho, who had to beat a hasty retreat out of a threatened VIP box as host Kia Joorabchian began to take the brunt of furious fans’ anger.

Goiás had to bid farewell to the first – impressive, albeit truncated – participation in Libertadores as an away goal put Argentinean outfit Estudiantes through to the quarter-finals, Calderón’s goal scotching the dreams of the locals who, nevertheless, go out with their chins up. The remaining tie saw Tigres slide out of contention as the Mexicans were held to a goalless draw by Paraguayans Libertad.

Corinthians 1 x 3 River Plate
Goals: Nilmar (C), Coelho (C) (own goal), Higuain (2)(RP)
Venue: Pacaembu stadium, São Paulo (SP)

Higuain Celebrates Decisive Brace

Although Dyego Coelho showed the same clumsiness apparently suffered by his parents with spelling o give the Millonarios a gift of an own goal, the hero of the day was River attacker Gonzalo Higuaín, who celebrated his sharpshooting afterwards.

“I was very fortunate to be able to score a brace. All I can add is that it make me extremely happy to know that I helped classify River Plate for the quarter-finals”, explained the player who came on for Abán in the 54th minute with the game tied at one-all.

Six minutes later he scored the 1-2 culminating a swift counter-attack, and ten minutes from time the number 9 gave the coup de grace to Corinthians with the third and definitive goal. The match soon degenerated into chaos and the ref called an early end seeing as the result was a foregone conclusion.

Aaron Marcus

Posted by soccer365 at 10:34 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

(Soccer365.com) - El "Pato" assures he'll bring his A game to Germany '06.

Argentina keeper Roberto Abbondonziari says he is over a patch of rough showings and will be at his best during World Cup 2006.

The Boca Juniors man has received pans for his play in recent months – admittedly, with good reason.

"I think that after the friendly against Croatia, where a lot of things were said about me, I got it into my head that I had to be as relaxed as possible," explained Abbondonziari.

"In the last few games, I've had the confidence that every goalkeeper needs to have and the results can be seen on the pitch."

"I feel that I am good enough to be defending the goal for the national side," he declared.

"I'll get to the World Cup at the perfect moment."

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Posted by soccer365 at 10:31 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

(Goal.com) - Real Madrid leapfrogged Valencia into second place as they held on to clinch victory against a struggling Racing Santander side in El Sardinero.

Roberto Carlos was at the centre of the action for Madrid as he helped steer them to a much-needed 3-2 win in a season that has produced little but problems for the club.

Following chances at either end, the visitors opened the scoring after 33 minutes when Pablo Pinillos brought down Robinho in the area and Roberto Carlos fired homr the resulting penalty.

Racing fought back and Melo forced stand-in keeper Diego López into a save shortly before the break, as the custodian enjoyed a rare outing thanks to the suspension of Iker Casillas.

After some tepid displays this term, this was proving to be one of Madrid's better performances against a team that is still in grave danger of being relegated.

At the start of the second half, Juan Ramón López Caro's side looked bright and their pressure paid off just before the hour mark as Raúl helped in a move that ended with Roberto Soldado netting for the Bernabéu side.

With Madrid on top, the hosts were powerless to stop their opponents moving further into the lead as Robinho created space for himself before slotting the ball beyond the reach of Dudu Aouate and into the goal for number three.

Some of the Merengues old habits returned after they took their foot off the gas and Racing took advantage as they reduced the arrears.

Sergio Matabuena netted the first from close range and then raised hopes of a stunning comeback as he slotted home after receiving a pass from Antonio Pérez, but the visitors held on for maximum points.

Posted by soccer365 at 10:29 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

(Goal.com) - The Juventus manager defended the Bianconeri and himself during a press conference early this afternoon.

Antonio Giraudo gave his version of the facts regarding the wiretaps scandal involving himself and Luciano Moggi which has tainted the Juventus image in the past two days.

“We were not even informed about the investigation against us which had been going on for many months. And we only learnt about it through the media, after being approached for a long time to those who committed crimes: it’s an incredible violation of the fundamental rights of the citizens.

“I read that we remained in silence for fear. It’s not true. For seven years we have been insulted in all of the Italian stadiums for a trial which the judgement disintegrated the infamous accusations, but evidently in Italy this is useless.”

Just before Giraudo’s press conference, Luciano Moggi commented the current situation.

“It’s all a joke. You should ask yourself why they did it on the even of a well-deserved Scudetto.”

Posted by soccer365 at 10:12 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

(Soccer365.com) - Bayern Munich is said to be after Schalke 04 ace Lincoln.

According to Schalke 04 executive Andreas Müller, Bayern Munich have been given clearance to explore a transfer move for Lincoln.

Despite the permission granted, the Royal Blues insist they will do everything to keep the playmaker.

"Bayern general manager Uli Hoeness has contacted our board chairman Clemens Tonnies and asked whether he can start negotiations with Lincoln's agent," announced Müller. "Our position is quite clear: we want to keep Lincoln."

"I have spoken to him and asked whether he wants to leave us - he said he did not."

Posted by soccer365 at 09:03 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)

(Goal.com) - Everbody already knew, but it has now been confirmed that Steve McClaren will replace Sven-Goran Eriksson as England manager after the World Cup finals this summer.

Ever since Luiz Felipe Scolari surprisingly rejected the chance of taking the job last week, McClaren emerged as the only realistic candidate following the Football Association's messy appointment process.

“This is the biggest honour that any coach can have, and is obviously the highlight of my career," McClaren said on the FA website after the announcement was made. "It’s a massive challenge and one that I welcome. I have hugely enjoyed my time at Middlesbrough and am very grateful to the club.

“However, this was an opportunity I couldn’t refuse. My immediate priority is next week’s UEFA Cup Final with Boro, and then working with Sven and his coaching team to achieve success in Germany this summer, before I turn my thoughts to the Euro 2008 qualifying campaign.”

Eriksson endorsed McClaren's selection by saying, “I’m obviously very pleased for Steve, but also for the England team. I have worked closely with Steve ever since I came to England and know how good a coach he is. He is well-liked and well-respected by the players and staff. I have no doubt that he has all the credentials to be very successful in the job and wish him all the best.

“I said that I didn’t want the next England coach to be with the team at the World Cup, unless he was already involved in the set-up. Steve is a key part of my coaching staff and I’m delighted to have him with us in Germany.”

McClaren was part of Sven's staff at the 2002 World Cup and Euro 2004.

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(Soccer365.com) - The Brazilian superstar is on track to reach the goals he set out for himself when he joined the Catalan squad.

Ronaldinho is well on his way to meeting the goals he set himself when he joined Barcelona a few years ago from Paris St Germain.

The Catalan club clinched its second straight title on Wednesday with a 1-0 win at Celta Vigo on Wednesday and just as last season, the Brazilian superstar was a major factor.

The Barca playmaker, who was close to signing for Manchester United from PSG but was persuaded to join the Spanish giants by former vice-president Sandro Rosell, a previous head of Nike in South America, could not be happier.

"I knew when I arrived that it was a big club that could achieve important things," Ronaldinho said.

"I signed for Barcelona because I wanted to play for a quality side that had the chance of making history.

"I am very happy to have been able to play a part in this new era for Barcelona and now we have to continue this way so as to win the Champions League in two weeks."

Barcelona will take on Arsenal in the final of Europe's elite club competition in Paris later this month.

"We have worked all season to arrive at this point and now we have to enjoy it because we deserve it," Ronaldinho continued.

"In the dressing room, we have remembered the bad times this season but they have been worth it."

Celebrations started in Vigo following the win over Celta before large crowds turned up at the airport in Barcelona to welcome the team back in the early hours of the morning.

Samuel Eto'o, the leading goalscorer in the Primera Liga, believes this year's triumph has more credit than 12 months ago. His 55th-minute strike at Celta secured the crown.

"It is even better because it is harder to win consecutive titles," he said.

"It is important now that the team finishes the season well and goes to Paris in good form.

"Winning the league is very important for the players because it is the reward for the effort we have put in over two years," he added, after scoring his 25th goal of the season.

"We hope the team continues in this form. I scored, which is good, but the important thing is the team and that we got the victory."

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Posted by soccer365 at 03:11 PM | Permalink | Comments (3)

(Soccer365.com) - Merengue legend Di Stefano critical of 'Galacticos' policy.

Real Madrid icon Alfredo di Stefano has lashed out at the decision makers that have stalled their trophy chase.

Los Merengues are set to end their second year without silver, and their former star blames the slide on poor transfer philosophies.

"It's amazing how many players they have been buying and selling," blared Di Stefano. "You can't run a football club as if it was a supermarket."

"We have to try and improve next year," he explained. "We have to work with the youth team players first... we have to persevere and try to get better."

"There are some great players at Real, but they have to work as a team... in football what counts is team spirit."

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Posted by soccer365 at 03:08 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

(Soccer365.com) - The defending champions, Sao Paulo, fellow Brazilian Internacional and Velez Sarsfield of Argentina all qualified Wednesday to the Copa Libertadores elite eight.

Sao Paulo 2 – 1 Palmeiras

Goalkeeper Rogerio Ceni hit a late penalty to give defending champions Sao Paulo a 2-1 victory over inter-city archrivals Palmeiras and earn a spot in the Copa Libertadores quarter-finals on Wednesday.

Ceni's goal was the difference, as it pushed Sao Paulo to the 3-2 aggregate win in the all-Brazilian third-round series in a mirror of their victory over Palmeiras at the same stage of last year's competition.

Sao Paulo began as hot favourites against an ageing Palmeiras side who are bottom of the Brazilian championship.

The Tricolor got off to a good start when striker Aloisio scored from close range in the 14th minute.

Despite being outplayed for long periods, Palmeiras evened in the 58th minute when Washington, left unmarked at a free kick, headed home from six meters.

After his first penalty kick was wiped out by the ref, Ceni finally scored on the second try, netting the 61st goal of his goalkeeping career, one away from Paraguayan Chilavert’s record.

After Sao Paulo regained the lead, tempers flared as Palmeiras pressed for the tie, which would have sent them through on away goals.

The game itself also produced one red card for each team, a fight in the penalty area, more than 50 fouls, and four expulsions.

Furious Palmeiras players surrounded and pushed the referee at the end of the match before police stepped in and midfielder Marcinho Guerrero was sent off.

Velez Sarsfield 2 – 2 Newell’s Old Boys
Velez Sarsfield won their all-Argentina series against Newell's Old Boys 6-4 aggregate, coming from behind to draw 2-2 in Buenos Aires to qualify to the Copa Libertadores quarterfinals.

Comfortable with their 4-2 advantage from the first leg, Velez did most of the attacking but were hindered by an outstanding performance from Paraguayan goalkeeper, Justo Villar.

Needing to score at least three goals to qualify, Newell’s grabbed the lead in the 53rd minute when Ariel Ortega found an unmarked Ignacio Scocco, who fired past Gaston Sessa.

The last half hour was exciting as Velez leveled in the 77th minute with a Leandro Somoza penalty kick, but Newell's regained the lead when Hugo Colace scored from close range in the 85th minute.

Dario Ocampo's stoppage time score assured the draw, saving Velez's unbeaten record in the competition.

Velez will play Guadalajara in the quarterfinals.

Internacional 0 – 0 Nacional

Porto Alegre’s Internacional became the second Brazilian side to slip into the quarterfinals with a tough 0-0 home draw against Uruguayan Nacional on the strength of the 2-1 first leg score.

Nacional striker Marco Vanzini had two goals disallowed in the game, but otherwise the Brazilian side was well placed to disrupt all of Nacional’s opportunities.

Internacional will take on Ecuador’s LDU in the next round.

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Posted by soccer365 at 09:45 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

(Goal.com) - Bolton manager Sam Allardyce, speaking after the Bolton's 1-1 draw with Middlesbrough tonight, said he expects his rival for the England job, Boro counterpart Steve McClaren, will be confirmed as the new national team coach on Thursday.

McClaren did not appear for the post-match press interviews, but Allardyce did, and he said: "I'm going to be disappointed."

Asked who he thought would get the England job in succession to Sven-Goran Eriksson, he replied: "Steve McClaren.

"I've had nothing [from the FA] but you get the sense and the feeling.

"The media have been going that way day-by-day and in the end you think that that is going to be the case.

"It isn't official yet but I'd expect that will probably be the selection tomorrow [Thursday]."

Allardyce has wasted no opportunity to state his wish to become England manager, but with McClaren favourite to get the nod instead of him, he said: "Without any question of a doubt it will be one of the biggest disappointments of my life."

McClaren has worked closely as one of Eriksson's assistants and, and Swede - who stands down after the World Cup - said of him: "He's extremely good. As a coach, perfect every time.

"Every time we are together, after dinner, all the coaches sit and discuss football for one or two hours - what we are going to do tomorrow, the next squad or the next team.

"Everyone has their opinion. Because when I took this job I said I don't want to have people around me who just say 'yes'.

"I want people to have opinions... and he's clever."

Eriksson did not anticipate any problem with having his possible successor sitting next to him in the dug-out during the World Cup.

"If that happened of course it would be OK," added Eriksson.

The FA insisted they would make a decision before the finals in Germany, and have moved quickly following the embarrassment of being rejected by Luiz Felipe Scolari last week.

McClaren sent his assistant Steve Round out to face the media after the draw at Bolton.

"Steve has not said anything to us," said Round.

"As far as I am aware he will be in for training on Thursday and preparing for Sunday's match against Fulham and the UEFA Cup Final next Wednesday."

Posted by soccer365 at 09:41 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

(Soccer365.com) - It was déjà vu as the Red Devils backed Cruz Azul against the ropes for the second straight year and San Luis continued to shock with a home win over heavily-favored Atlante

Toluca 2 – 1 Cruz Azul

In the first game of the Clausura ’06 quarterfinals, Toluca defeated Cruz Azul 2-1 at home, but squandered the chance to take a bigger first leg lead in the aggregate series.

Ten minutes into the match, the Blue Machine’s defensive breakdown left Ismael Valadez alone in the box, and Amaury Ponce lobbed the ball for Valadez to head into the net.

In the 34th minute Erick Espinoza was sent off with a red card, but having ten men did not hinder the Red Devils attack.

Before the half, Uruguayan Vicente Sanchez outlasted Oscar ‘conejo’ Perez, softly rebounding a shot blocked by the Cru Azul goalkeeper.

In the second half Cruz Azul went on the offensive, spending a good portion of the period in the Devils goal area, but with few open shots.

Until the 82nd minute when Cesar Villaluz cleaned up misses by Delgado and Sabah to cut the lead in half.

The rematch is set for Saturday May 6th, where Cruz Azul will hope not to repeat last year’s first round elimination by the same Toluca team.

San Luis 1 – 0 Atlante

The magic is still not over for San Luis as they hung on to beat Atlante 1-0 at home to take the slight lead in the aggregate quarterfinals series, when just a few days ago they were on the brink of relegation.

With a defensive mindset in the first half, the Colts barely left their side, barely challenging the San Luis net-minder.

Brazilian Sebastian “Didi” Pereira struck the net in the 69th minute for the game’s only score.

San Luis will look to further their historic run in Saturday’s rematch at Atlante. A tie or win of any kind in the next game would see the Tuneros through to the semifinals.

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(Goal.com) - Barcelona were confirmed as champions of Spain's Primera Liga for the second successive year when Valencia were beaten 2-1 at Real Mallorca.

Barca themselves beat Celta Vigo 1-0 to clinch their 18th Spanish title.

Their remaining challenge this season is to defeat Arsenal in the Champions League final in Paris on 17th May.

"It's a prize for spectacle, work and consistency. We're all very happy, it's a reward for hard work and I want to congratulate all the players and staff," said Barcelona president Joan Laporta.

Barcelona's fortunes have soared under Dutch coach Frank Rijkaard and the influence on the pitch of World Player of the Year Ronaldinho.

He has scored 17 goals this season, including a brace against arch-rivals Real Madrid, and is the creative fulcrum around which the team revolves.

Meanwhile, striker Samuel Eto'o - who scored the only goal against Celta Vigo - has netted 25 goals this season.

Barca who now have an unassailable 11-point lead at the top of the table.

They are the first team to defend the title successfully since their own back-to-back titles under Dutch coach Louis van Gaal.

Posted by soccer365 at 08:41 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)

(Soccer365.com) - Ajax Amsterdam coach Danny Blind is certain he will be dismissed in favor of Barca assistant.

Ajax manager Danny Blind now has no doubt that he will be replaced this summer, with Barcelona assistant Henk ten Cate rumoured as his replacement.

"It's over, I know that for sure," he told ANP. "I have got enough indications for that."

"Actually, I already knew six weeks ago that it was over, but now also my last doubts are gone.

"Two more games to go and it's over," sighed Blind. "What a pity that is."

After a rough start to the campaign, Ajax have rallied over the last few months and stand a win away from both the Gatorade Cup title and a Champions League return.

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(Soccer365.com) - U.S. National Team coach Bruce Arena couldn’t be blamed if he took a sigh of relief after revealing his 23-man World Cup 2006 roster on Tuesday evening.

"The naming of this 23-man roster is the end of a long and arduous process," he assured. "It has carried the U.S. team throughout the CONCACAF region and the world over the last three-and-a-half-years."

"I'm comfortable in saying that over these 59 games, I've been able to observe and evaluate a pool of very talented players."

"It's unfortunate that I'm not able to bring all these players to Germany," said Arena. "I'm extremely grateful for the effort and professionalism that all our players exhibited throughout the process."

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(Soccer365.com) - Osasuna boss Javier Aguirre believs his charges can hang onto the last Champions League spot due to their scrappy nature.

"We are still fourth and we are determined to defend our narrow advantage over the others tooth and nail," he began. "The players deserve it."

"You may be able to criticize their style but you can't fault their commitment."

"We are capable of playing good, bad and run-of-the-mill football," conceded Aguirre, "But the team has grown in confidence, and we feel strong for the remaining few games."

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(Soccer365.com) - Hamburg executive Dietmar Beiersdorfer promises that the club have done all they can to convince Cologne wunderkind Lukas Podolski to make an AOL Arena switch, and says the full decision now lies with the player.

"We will continue to fight for him," he told Express. "He knows that we want him, but it is now up to him to make a move."

"We have told him that we feel a move to Hamburg would be the best for his career."

Bayern Munich and Werder Bremen have also winked at the influential Germany forward.

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Posted by soccer365 at 03:11 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

(Goal.com) - The Barcelona striker has been in contact with the Rossoneri.

According to newspaper reports coming from Italy, Samuel Eto`o wants to play for Milan next season, as the Cameroon player offered himself to the Rossoneri.

The rumors indicate the Barca top-scorer has contacted Milan directly, and the Italian giants are more than willing to welcome the striker to their squad.

The Rossoneri were said to be keen on signing an attacker, with former Inter striker Ronaldo topping their wishlist. But if Eto`o indeed is ready to join them, Ronaldo may have to look elsewhere for a trip out of Madrid.

Posted by soccer365 at 12:38 PM | Permalink | Comments (14)

(Soccer365.com) - The Empoli attacker is ready to make an Internazionale move.

With Inter Milan reportedly snooping around, Empoli striker Francesco Tavano claims he is ready to make a glamour move.

The 27-year old Italy World Cup hopeful has struck 18 times in Serie A this term, hitting the scoresheet in 16 of the club’s 36 games.

"I think my performances this season have shown that I could play for a team challenging for something important," declared Tavano. "I don't know where I'll go."

"Empoli will decide that because I'm contracted to them for another three years."

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(Soccer365.com) - The majority of Bruce Arena's Germany 2006 squad have been a part of the emerging Major League Soccer.

Nineteen of the 23 players that will represent the United States at the FIFA World Cup this summer in Germany have experience in Major League Soccer. Bruce Arena, U.S. Men’s National Team Manager, announced the 23-man roster and 13 alternates today on ESPN’s SportsCenter. The selections emphasize the impact that Major League Soccer continues to make on the maturation and improvement of the U.S. National Team program.

Arena, the longest-tenured national team coach in the 32-team field, accepted the position in October 1998 after guiding D.C. United to two MLS Cup titles. For the 2006 U.S. World Cup roster, Arena selected 11 current MLS players and 12 players employed by European clubs. Of the 13 players named as alternates to the U.S. roster, 11 are current MLS players.

The 32-team FIFA World Cup takes place in Germany from June 9 to July 9, with all 64 games being broadcast live and in high definition by ABC, ESPN and ESPN2. The United States’ first round opponents are the Czech Republic (June 12), Italy (June 17) and Ghana (June 22). The 11 current MLS players on the roster are slated to play for their respective teams this weekend before heading to Cary, N.C. for the U.S. team’s training camp, which begins May 10. The United States will play three games in its Send-Off Series before departing for Germany: Tuesday, May 23 in Nashville vs. Morocco; Friday, May 26 in Cleveland vs. Venezuela and Sunday, May 28 in Hartford vs. Latvia.

“We congratulate each of the 23 players selected to represent our country on the world’s grandest sporting stage,” MLS Commissioner Don Garber said. “This United States team was assembled from arguably the deepest talent pool in American soccer history and we are confident that Coach Bruce Arena and this team will make us all proud.”

A number of the U.S. team’s top players have spent the majority of their professional careers in Major League Soccer, including Landon Donovan, Pablo Mastroeni, Eddie Pope and Josh Wolff. Others, who currently play in Europe, forged their identities as stars while playing for MLS clubs and are still fan favorites in those cities, such as DaMarcus Beasley and Carlos Bocanegra with the Chicago Fire; Brian McBride with the Columbus Crew, and Bobby Convey with D.C. United.

“It’s no secret that this team has a lot of MLS influence,” Arena said. “I have said all along that our country’s success in international soccer depends on Major League Soccer and its continued growth. Clearly our player pool is getting deeper, particularly if you look at each four-year cycle. For that to continue, a strong domestic league is essential.”

The 23-player roster selected to the 2006 U.S. World Cup team follows (current MLS players in bold, former MLS players italicized):

Goalkeepers Club

Marcus Hahnemann Reading (England)
Tim Howard Manchester United (England)
Kasey Keller B. M’gladbach (Germany)

Defenders Club

Carlos Bocanegra Fulham (England)
Steve Cherundolo Hannover 96 (Germany)
Jimmy Conrad Kansas City Wizards (MLS)
Cory Gibbs ADO Den Haag (Holland)
Frankie Hejduk Columbus Crew (MLS)
Eddie Lewis Leeds United (England)
Oguchi Onyewu Standard Liege (Belgium)
Eddie Pope Real Salt Lake (MLS)

Midfielders Club

DaMarcus Beasley PSV Eindhoven (Holland)
Bobby Convey Reading (England)
Clint Dempsey New England Revolution (MLS)
Landon Donovan Los Angeles Galaxy (MLS)
Pablo Mastroeni Colorado Rapids (MLS)
John O’Brien Chivas USA (MLS)
Ben Olsen D.C. United (MLS)
Claudio Reyna Manchester City (England)

Forwards Club

Brian Ching Houston Dynamo (MLS)
Eddie Johnson Kansas City Wizards (MLS)
Brian McBride Fulham (England)
Josh Wolff Kansas City Wizards (MLS)

The Kansas City Wizards have the most U.S. World Cup team members of any MLS team, with three – Jimmy Conrad, Eddie Johnson and Josh Wolff. Eight of the 12 MLS teams have one representative each: Chivas USA, Colorado Rapids, Columbus Crew, D.C. United, Houston Dynamo, Los Angeles Galaxy, New England Revolution and Real Salt Lake.

U.S. Men’s National Team Alternates List – 2006 FIFA World Cup

Goalkeepers (2): Tony Meola (New York Red Bulls), Matt Reis (New England Revolution)

Defenders (3): Chris Albright (Los Angeles Galaxy), Gregg Berhalter (Energie Cottbus), Todd Dunivant (Los Angeles Galaxy)

Midfielders (5): Chris Armas (Chicago Fire), Chris Klein (Real Salt Lake), Pat Noonan (New England Revolution), Steve Ralston (New England Revolution), Kerry Zavagnin (Kansas City Wizards)

Forwards (3): Conor Casey (FSV Mainz), Chris Rolfe (Chicago Fire), Taylor Twellman (New England Revolution)

Other Major League Soccer players who could represent their respective countries at this summer’s World cup are:

Player Club Country
Cornell Glen - Los Angles Galaxy - Trinidad & Tobago
Avery John - New England Revolution - Trinidad & Tobago
Roberto Mina - FC Dallas - Ecuador
Douglas Sequeira - Real Salt Lake - Costa Rica
Claudio Suarez - Chivas USA - Mexico

About Major League Soccer
Headquartered in New York City, Major League Soccer is the top-flight professional soccer league in the United States and features many stars from the U.S. and around the world. Now in its 11th season, MLS has 12 teams: the Chicago Fire, Colorado Rapids, Club Deportivo Chivas USA, Columbus Crew, D.C. United, FC Dallas, Houston Dynamo, Kansas City Wizards, Los Angeles Galaxy, Red Bull New York, New England Revolution and Real Salt Lake. For more information about MLS, log on to the League’s official Web site at www.MLSnet.com.

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Posted by soccer365 at 12:23 PM | Permalink | Comments (7)

(Soccer365.com) - Before less than 10,000 on hand, in a cold and wet night, Manuel de la Torre's the Chivas fell 3-1 but squeezed into the next round on the strength of their 3-0 win last week, giving them the 4-3 aggregate victory.

Jose Manuel de la Torre expressed his happiness over his club’s qualification to the Copa Libertadores quarterfinals, despite a 3-1 loss to a side he considered “a huge rival.”

“Chepo” told local media that his players worked hard, showing their personality, in spite of the difficulties faced in Bogota, like the bad conditions on the pitch and the home team backed against a wall.

“The game was in two times, one in Guadalajara and one in Bogota, the balance has favored us, and we’re glad for that,” said De la Torre.

De la Torre admitted that at times his troops got harried, lost their cool and consequently missed out on some scoring chances that could have made things easier.

“In the second half they hit us hard in our territory and we did not have the calm to capitalize on a few counterattacks.”

The Chivas coach concluded by stating his team’s focus will now be on Thursday’s Mexican quarterfinals match versus Jaguares, before they even begin to worry about the next Libertadores opponent, either Velez Sarsfield or Newell’s Old Boys.

Posted by soccer365 at 10:52 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

(Goal.com) - Wayne Rooney has "more than one fracture" in his foot and may well need "a miracle" to be fit in time for the World Cup, according to his England coach Sven-Goran Eriksson.

The gloomy prognosis comes after the Manchester United striker had a second scan on his metatarsal.

Eriksson said: "I knew yesterday [Tuesday] that he had more than one fracture. Miracles happen in life now and then, but I don't really know."

United believe Rooney is at least six weeks away from training but Eriksson wants to include him in his 23-man World Cup squad.

The England and Manchester United medical teams meet on Thursday to discuss Rooney's chances of making the finals.

Rooney broke his foot against Chelsea on Saturday and an initial scan after the match revealed only one fracture.

Eriksson added: "I will probably name him on Monday. It will be 26 or maybe 27 players.

"I will not rule him out until the doctors tell me there is no chance. No-one wnats that to happen, everyone hopes he can take part in the World Cup at some stage."

Posted by soccer365 at 10:46 AM | Permalink | Comments (9)

(Soccer365.com) - Both Colombian sides are eliminated from the Copa Libertadores, as Liga de Quito and Guadalajara are the first two into the quarterfinals.

Santa Fe 3 – 1 Guadalajara

The Guadalajara squad struggled in Colombia against a fiery Independiente Santa Fe squad that won 3-1, but the home win last week was enough to see them through by the slightest of margins, 4-3 aggregate.

Hector Reynoso Lopez headed in the all-important Chivas goal Tuesday in the 11th minute.

Then los Cardenales struck the net three times to make the goats sweat in Bogota after they had a comfortable lead in the series.

Santa Fe ace, Leider Preciado, snuck in to score the first home goal in the 36th minute, striker Jose Largache netted in the 50th and defender, David Montoya drilled a penalty in the 86th for the 3-1.

Guadalajara’s next foe will no doubt be unbeaten Velez Sarsfield in the next round.

Atletico Nacional 0 – 1 LDU

Liga Deportiva Universitaria of Quito, Ecuador, easily handled Colombia’s Atletico Nacional 1-0 Tuesday as visitors to advance to the quarterfinals with a resounding 5-0 aggregate score.

The first Colombian team to win the Copa Libertadores, Atletico Nacional in ’89, did not put up much of a fight, as national team ace Edison Mendez’s goal was enough to earn the victory.

For the Ecuadorians, who have a large contingent of national team players who are getting good World Cup ’06 training, this is their best performance since making the semis in the ’76 edition.

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Posted by soccer365 at 09:32 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

(Goal.com) - Argentineans Boca Juniors and Brazilians São Paulo will play the ‘Recopa Sudamericana’ (South American Cup Winners’ Cup) in a two-leg final that will take place in September according to today’s announcement by the ‘Confederación Sudamericana de Fútbol’ (CSF – Confederation of South American Football).

The ‘Recopa Sudamericana’ is the equivalent of the FIFA event that pits the Champions League winners against the UEFA Cup winners. In South America this means that the winner of the Copa Libertadores de América (São Paulo) and the Copa Sudamericana (Boca Juniors) will face off in a classic clash of Brazilians and Argentineans after the World Cup.

The first leg will be played in La Bombonera, Buenos Aires, on the 6th of September – Boca the winner of the lesser trophy – and the second leg will see the trophy awarded to one side or the other at Morumbi stadium, São Paulo the week after on the 13th of September. The Argentineans will be defending the Recopa they currently hold after beating previous surprise Libertadores 2004 winners Once Caldas of Colombia.

Aaron Marcus

Posted by soccer365 at 09:08 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

(Soccer365.com) - The US national team World Cup '06 squad is set for Germany with three more friendlies to play in May.

U.S. men’s national team coach Bruce Arena named his World Cup roster on Tuesday evening live on ESPN. The 23 man squad will assemble in Cary, N.C. to begin their final training.

Prior to leaving for Germany on June 1, the Red, White and Blue will a three-game ‘Send-Off Series’ as a final preparation.

The U.S. plays their opening match against the Czechs on June 12 in Gelsenkirchen before meeting Italy in Kaiserslautern on June 17 and then finishing off group play against Ghana on June 22 in Nuremberg.

The World Cup Roster:

Goalkeepers: Kasey Keller, Tim Howard, Marcus Hahnemann

Defenders: Eddie Lewis, Oguchi Onyewu, Frankie Hejduk, Eddie Pope, Steve Cherundolo, Carlos Bocanegra, Jimmy Conrad, Cory Gibbs

Midfielders: Landon Donovan, Clint Dempsey, Claudio Reyna, DaMarcus Beasley, John O’Brien, Ben Olsen, Pablo Mastroeni, Bobby Convey

Forwards; Brian McBride, Eddie Johnson, Josh Wolff, Brian Ching

photo: Bongarts- Alexander Hassenstein

Posted by soccer365 at 08:28 AM | Permalink | Comments (28)

(Soccer365.com) - Cruz Azul boss, Isaac Mizrahi said his squad is ready for any team they may encounter in the Mexican league playoffs.

Despite losing three starters to the national team for Germany ’06, Cruz Azul technical director, Isaac Mizrahi said his group is ready for any rival they may face in the Mexican league playoffs, for the goal is a championship, but for now they will only focus on Toluca.

“As I’ve always said, Cruz Azul has gone from less to more, we’ve done things well and come into the playoffs in good shape.”

Mizrahi assured he was pleased with the Cement Machine’s performance last Saturday in the 3-2 home victory over top-seed Pachuca. “This team has very aware players, who analyze themselves and critique themselves a lot, and that has me quite pleased.”

Coach Mizrahi emphasized his confidence in the young players who will debut for third-seeded Cruz in the playoffs.

“I know all their capabilities, I know them all, and I know their great quality, so I am certain that when we call on them, they’ll respond,” he said.

About playing current holders, Toluca, Mizrahi understands he’ll face an experienced team “much like the one who eliminated us in the ’05 Apertura.”

Mizrahi concluded by stating his squad will not be intimidated by playing in Toluca’s ‘La Bombonera’ for the first leg, noting that “all pitches are the same size, the only difference is the scenery.”

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(Soccer365.com) - Barcelona strike ace Samuel Eto’o says he is not motivated by becoming top league scorer as much as he his by winning medals.

"I'm not obsessed by it," he told AS. "If I was allowed to choose, I would much rather win the league and the Champions League."

"I score goals because it is my job and to help Barcelona win games, not because I want to end the season as top scorer.

"At the start of the season, I set myself a target to beat the number of goals I scored last year in all competitions and I've done that," noted Eto’o. "Last time, I scored 29, and this time, I'm already on 31."

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Posted by soccer365 at 03:18 PM | Permalink | Comments (8)

(Soccer365.com) - Mexico boss Ricardo Lavolpe believes teen midfielder Andres Guardado can make a splash at World Cup.

The Atlas starlet has impressed since making his senior debut in December.

"He's got the dynamism you'd expect of a 19-year old kid," said Lavolpe. "He doesn't know what fear is, either."

"We thought he might be nervous and overawed about playing for his country, but he's shown real character and steel."

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Posted by soccer365 at 03:17 PM | Permalink | Comments (15)

(Soccer365.com) - After authorizing a €50 million transfer kitty, Palermo president Maurizio Zamparini is getting personally involved in the chase for Independiente phenom Sergio Aguero and Inter Milan midfielder David Pizarro.

"(Aguero) will go to Atlético Madrid? It doesn't seem that way to me," boasted the executive. "Two days ago Independiente told us €16 million and we accepted."

"I hope they aren't using us as an auction."

The club are hoping to find as many as many as 10 new players, with Pizarro one of the key targets.

"On Thursday, I will be having a meeting with Massimo Moratti," revealed Zamparini.

"We have players that interest them and it's possible there could be a few of them that could interest us."

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Posted by soccer365 at 03:16 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

(Soccer365.com) - Barcelona attacker Lionel Messi will miss the Champions League final if participation jeopardizes his World Cup involvement.

The Argentina starlet is working his way back from a hamstring ailment, and is doubtful to face Arsenal for the European Cup in Paris.

"There are no miracles with this type of injury," explained a Barça medical staff spokesman.

"If he's in too much of a hurry, he'll miss the World Cup."

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Posted by soccer365 at 03:15 PM | Permalink | Comments (4)

(Soccer365.com) - In the wake of losing their best player, Bayern defender urges club to go after the Brazilian ace, Adriano.

Bayern Munich defender Willy Sagnol has urged club officials to make a summer transfer swoop for Inter Milan goal monster Adriano if they want to back up their ambitiouos talk.

"I've read that Adriano would like to leave Inter," the right back told Suddeutsche Zeitung. "If such a player came to Bayern, then that would lift the club's prestige enormously."

"We have to show that we are a big club," insisted Sagnol.

"It is up to the board to make the right transfer deals to show that they really mean what they say."

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Posted by soccer365 at 12:20 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)

(Goal.com) - São Paulo and Santos get important wins as Corinthians and Botafogo crash.

An average goal haul of 3.3 strikes per match graced the first three games as the Brasileirão kicked off into the third round of the 2006 edition of the Brazilian national league.
The two matches that sparkled – or fizzled, depending on your loyalties – more were the two 4-goal massacres of Santa Cruz in the big smog of the Paulista capital and Botafogo up in sunny Rio.

Morumbi was treated to a gourmet day as Danilo, Leandro, Rogério Ceni – in a state of grace that shouldn’t (yet probably will) be overlooked by Parreira – and Mineiro cooked the visiting northerners.

Botafogo will probably be stewing n their own juice after thinking that this year was going to be plain sailing. The Lone Star were steamed by a Pedro Oldoni hat-trick and Alan Bahia’s cherry on top.

Brasileirão Results (Rd.3): Saturday 29/04/06

Fortaleza 2 x 1 São Caetano
Goals: Leandro Lima (SC), Alan (F), Mazinho Lima (F)
Venue: Castelão stadium, Fortaleza (CE)

São Paulo 4 x 0 Santa Cruz
Goals: Danilo, Leandro, Rogério Ceni and Mineiro (SP)
Venue: Morumbi stadium, São Paulo (SP)

Botafogo 0 x 4 Atlético-PR
Goals: Pedro Oldoni (3) and Alan Bahia (APR)
Venue: Maracanã stadium, Rio de Janeiro (RJ)

Sunday

A Paulo Baier own goal added to the litany of woes currently buffeting the Parque Antarctica. The ex-Goiás Captain’s error cost the Verdão yet another home defeat and fans are now howling for something to be done before the ghosts of relegation start to haunt Palmeiras again.

Palmeiras 1 x 2 Santos
Goals: Gamarra (P), Paulo Baier – own goal (S), Reinaldo (S)
Venue: Parque Antarctica, São Paulo (SP)

Ponte Preta 3 x 2 Corinthians
Goals: Da Silva - contra (C), Iran (2)(PP), Rafael Santos (PP), Edson (C)
Venue: Moisés Lucarelli, Campinas (SP)

Internacional 1 x 0 Flamengo
Goals: Alex (I)
Venue: Beira-Rio, Porto Alegre (RS)

Paraná 5 x 2 Grêmio
Goals: Cristiano (P), Alessandro – own goal (P), Hugo (G), Beto (P), Lucas (G), Ângelo (P), Emerson (P)
Venue: Pinheirão, Curitiba (PR)

Vasco 1 x 1 Fluminense
Goals: Abedi (VAS), Tuta (FLU)
Venue: Maracanã, Rio de Janeiro (RJ)

Juventude 1 x 1 Goiás
Goals: Lino (JUV), Souza (GOI)
Venue: Alfredo Jaconi, Caxias do Sul (RS)

Figueirense 0 x 2 Cruzeiro
Goals: Luisão (CRU), Wagner (CRU)
Venue: Orlando Scarpelli, Florianópolis (SC)

Aaron Marcus

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(Goal.com) - Arsenal turned on the style for 20 minutes at the end of the first half to defeat Sunderland 3-0 and close the gap on fourth-placed Tottenham to four points. But victory came at a price as midfielder Abou Diaby was stretchered off in agony following a nasty two-footed lunge by Black Cats' substitute Dan Smith in the dying minutes.

The Gunners' hopes of a top-four finish remain intact but Spurs are still in the driving seat. Arsenal must beat Manchester City on Thursday, then Wigan on Sunday and hope that West Ham take points off Spurs, also on Sunday, if they are to overtake their North London rivals and qualify for the Champions League next season.

As for Sunderland, already relegated, they have now beaten their own record for fewest points in a Premiership season. Still on 12, they can only get 18 at most, and the record low, set by themselves in 2002/03, is 19.

The Black Cats must also beat Fulham on Thursday to avoid being the first side ever to complete a full League season without winning a home match.

Sunderland opened brightly but went behind after 29 minutes when Thierry Henry's left-wing free-kick was headed into his own net by Sunderland defender Danny Collins, under pressure from Diaby.

Then Henry played Cesc Fabregas in with an astute pass which the Spanish teenager converted with a deft chip from eight yards.

Henry completed the scoring himself just before half-time, cleverly curling a free-kick just inside Kelvin Davis' near post.

To their credit, Sunderland made things more difficult in the second-half to ensure there would be no thrashing in front of 44,000 loyal fans.

And they also put more pressure on Jens Lehmann's goal, Kevin Kyle twice being thwarted by the German keeper. The second save, from Kyle's firm header, was outstanding.

Ashley Cole made a second-half substitute appearance that England manager Sven-Goran Eriksson would have welcomed, especially with fellow Englishman Sol Campbell back in the Arsenal defence - though Campbell made a couple of potentially costly slips.

At the other end, Henry nearly added a second with a volley that rebounded off Davis onto the post.

However, manager Arsene Wenger admitted he was more upset - and worried - about Diaby than pleased with the result.

Posted by soccer365 at 10:37 AM | Permalink | Comments (3)

The man who developed Wayne Rooney's new boot insists it had nothing to do with the injury which threatens to wreck the England striker's World Cup dream.

Rooney was wearing Nike's 'Total 90 Supremacy' boot for the first time at Stamford Bridge on Saturday when he suffered the broken metatarsal which Manchester United have confirmed will rule him out for a minimum of six weeks.

But, while England manager Sven-Goran Eriksson keeps his fingers crossed like the rest of a worried nation, the finger is again being pointed at the new-style boots which some people speculate are the major reason behind such a recent spate of metatarsal injuries.

Nike point out that of the series of England stars to be affected in recent years - including David Beckham, Gary Neville and Steven Gerrard - Rooney is the only one contracted to them.

And, at the high-profile launch of the 'Total 90 Supremacy' boot, which weighs in at a mere 10.5 ounces and features air technology specifically to cushion and protect the foot, boot developer Cedric Collet insisted there was no added risk to the safety of a player by the use of lighter micro-fibres in the boot construction rather than old-style leather.

"Nothing occurred in any of our tests to indicate the player would be at any risk," said Collet.

"The boot was specifically designed for Wayne and has incorporated three different types of protection for his foot.

"Every time we bring a boot out, the safety aspect is improved in some way.

"The boot is more durable and it keeps the shape around the player's foot.

"In some ways, I think these injuries are more linked to the speed the game is played at now."

Eriksson will take further medical bulletins on the 20-year-old over the next week before announcing his interim 26-man squad for this summer's tournament in Germany next Monday.

The Swede has already indicated his willingness to name Rooney in his final party if he thinks there is any chance the United forward will be fit for the knockout stages, which will not be until either June 24 or 25 depending on whether England emerge from Group B as winners or runners-up.

Nike also claim to have been exonerated by both Rooney and United's medical staff, who will liaise with manager Sir Alex Ferguson before the decision over whether to release the £27million forward for England duty is made.

"Any boot needs to be a mixture of protection and performance, however no boot can provide a guarantee against injuries," said a Nike spokesman.

"Manchester United have confirmed that there is no link between the boots and the injury sustained by Wayne."

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Posted by SoccerAdmin at 10:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)

(Goal.com) - World football’s governing body FIFA have announced that England can wait until June 9 to replace Wayne Rooney.

The Manchester United striker appears unlikely to play at the World Cup after breaking a metatarsal bone in the 3-0 defeat by Chelsea at the weekend.

But instead of having to replace injured players by the May 15th deadline, England boss Sven-Goran Eriksson will have until the day before the opening game against Paraguay.

"Coaches will have players who are crucial to their team and who they hope will be fit in time for the tournament and this gives them a chance to recover fully right up to the beginning of their team's World Cup,” a FIFA spokesman told the Daily Telegraph.

"That provision is there for any player, provided a medical certificate confirms the injury."

Posted by soccer365 at 08:05 AM | Permalink | Comments (6)

(Soccer365.com) - The wait is over for Inzaghi as the AC Milan star is called on to shore up the Italian national team Germany 2006 squad.

AC Milan poacher Pippo Inzaghi was elated to find out that he was called into Marcelo Lippi’s provisional World Cup squad after the seasons of injury troubles.

"I'm pleased," he declared. "To come back into the national side after two years' absence is something extraordinary."

"I've got a big desire to play."

The 32-year-old has connected 13 times in his last 14 league contests as the Rossoneri apply late Scudetto pressure to tabletop Juventus.

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(Soccer365.com) - Despite reported interest from Inter Milan and Manchester United, Villareal playmaker extraordinaire Juan Román Riquelme prefers to remain with the Yellow Submarines.

"I am proud of my team and what we have achieved because we have had a marvelous Champions League campaign," he said.

"I hope I can continue to help the club grow because it is hard to believe what we have achieved over the last three years."

"We deserve credit for what we have done," declared Riquelme. "Everyone in the Champions League wants to reach the final and we were so close."

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(Soccer365.com) - Independiente president Julio Comparada has squashed talk that Atlético Madrid had named the right price to acquire attack phenom Sergio Aguero - yet.

"I deny totally what has been said in Spain in the last hours," he told Todo Noticias. "Nobody can say that negotiations have been completed."

The teenager is also an apple to the eye of Bayern Munich, but neither team has met the asking price to date.

"When we end our participation in the Torneo Clausura we are going to analyze the different proposals that we have and then we will see how this continues," said Comparada.

"The proposal that we have received from Atlético Madrid is the only one that is near to what Independiente wants for the player."

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(Soccer365.com) - Barcelona midfielder Mark van Bommel has revealed that both he and the club recently shot down an overture from interested party Bayern Munich.

The Holland World Cup hopeful was being viewed by FC Hollywood as the ideal replacement for the departing Michael Ballack.

"Three or four weeks ago, the German side asked the club about me, but both Barcelona and I said no because I don't want to leave," Van Bommel told Marca.

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(Soccer365.com) - Fiorentina defender Tomáš Ujfalusi says he will be glad to get a holiday when the Serie A seasons ends so he can recharge for World Cup duty with the Czech Republic.

The gritty stopper revealed that he and Juventus attacker Pavel Nedved recently had conversation over the topic.

"The fatigue is bigger and bigger, so I am looking forward to having a rest before the World Cup," Ujfalusi told Pravo.

"I talked personally to Pavel before the game between Fiorentina and Juventus," he informed. "He is also looking forward to seeing the end of the season."

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Posted by soccer365 at 06:03 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

(Soccer365.com) - D.C. United coach Peter Nowak says he thought midfielder Joshua Gros should not have been ruled offside on a potential game winner against FC Dallas this weekend, but admits he may not have had the best view.

"I think from my perspective there was another player on the post, but maybe I'm wrong," said the coach. "The linesman said Josh was standing there the whole time, so that's why they called it."

Nowak saluted both sides for a top-notch battle that left the teams as MLS’ final unbeatens.

"It was a tough game, as we expected it was going to be," he stated. "There was a good fight from both teams."

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(Soccer365.com) - Borussia Dortmund star Jan Koller is in the last leg of his recovery from a serious knee injury last fall after showing for the second side in a Regionalliga match on Sunday.

"I am satisfied," grinned the Czech Republic striker, who is on target for World Cup. "Physically, I do not have any more problems."

"If anything, I simply lack the match practice."

The target man revealed that he could be in uniform against Hannover 96 this week.

"After training, we must sit down with the doctor and the coach and make a decision," said Koller. "There is a possibility that I will be there."

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(Soccer365.com) - For the fourth time in as many games so far this season, Colorado watched their opponent score in the first 15 minutes then hold the Rapids at bay to deny them a victory.

Despite coming out from the opening whistle with much more urgency, it was the same storyline as the Houston Dynamo stunned the home side first, then used a stingy defense and a bit of luck for the 1-0 victory in front of 7,225 fans in Denver.

Colorado midfielders Clint Mathis and Kyle Beckerman drove the play early on as the Rapids continually pushed into Houston’s third of the field only to see finishing chances elude them. In fact, despite their improved possession game Colorado managed just one shot on goal in the first half, a blast by Mathis that overpowered Dynamo keeper Pat Onstad but went over the crossbar for a harmless corner kick.

In the 16th minute, Houston won a corner kick from the right side. Forward Brian Ching, who has scored all 5 of his goals against Colorado this season, fired a powerful header directly at Rapids keeper Joe Cannon. “Set pieces are a huge part of my game,” explained Ching. “We have guys who put the ball exactly where you want it. My job is to make good runs in the box and lose my defender.” Cannon stuffed the shot on the line, but the rebound fell directly to Ching who buried his second attempt past a prone Cannon for the gamewinner.

Houston Head Coach Dominic Kinnear told his team beforehand to treat the game like mini-games to ward of the pressure he knew the home side would bring. “I told them in the first 15-20 minutes I know they’re going to come out (fast) because they finished their game against Dallas pretty well. I said the first 5, 10, 15-almost in 5 minute increments- we’ve got to come out and match them.

We got the goal early, which kind of helps your confidence. We didn’t have our best game tonight, but I thought we held well and the guys worked their tails off.”

Colorado Head Coach Fernando Clavijo is getting tired of seeing his side dig themselves into a hole off of set pieces. “One set piece, one goal. We knew they were dangerous and they made us pay,” lamented Clavijo. “We need to correct it. We can train all day long, but it’s an individual responsibility who’s marking who and how you’re making runs. It’s just wanting the ball more than we do.”

“It’s not because of something they create, it’s just something we did not mark well-the freekicks, a corner kick we should not give up. You have to look at how they finish the play, but also how we give up a corner kick for nothing. We have to treat the ball better and come out and have confidence in our players that when you play a ball that ball is going to be well treated. We’re very careless. We give them an opportunity for nothing and they finish it well.”

“We’ve been chasing the score this year and we need to make sure the message is loud and clear that we need to start out that way. The other people need to start chasing us.”

Houston did not really threaten the remainder of the half thanks to a Rapids backline that was fairly organized the rest of the night after Ching’s goal. Thanks in part to the defenders Mike Petke and Pablo Mastroeni in the middle, Houston managed just one more shot on goal in the first 45 minutes.

With the damage already done, Petke admitted he and his mates knew what they were up against going in to the game. “They came in and were effective. Ching is the best player in the league in the air by far. They get a goal and the rest of the game they do what they gotta do to get out with a win.”

Luck was also not on Colorado’s side for the night as forward Nicolas Hernandez saw two late first half opportunities slide by. A nice feed by Beckerman in front of the Dynamo goal ended with Hernandez sending a flyer over the crossbar in the 36th minute. Also, a nice ball by midfielder Terry Cooke was flicked on by teammate Dedi Ben-Dayan for an open Hernandez who lost his footing just before getting to the ball.

“We tried everything too quick,” Clavijo explained to soccer365. “If we just put a foot on top of the ball, make sure we have an opportunity, when we have an opportunity to make a run at those positions. We create we just couldn’t finish it.”

The second half almost began just as the first half did with Ching getting on the end of another dangerous corner kick in the 65th minute. Again Cannon made the point blank save and hung on to release the ball safely. Colorado’s best chance to equalize came in the 75th minute off a freekick taken by forward Jovan Kirovski. His bullet clanked off the near post as a frozen Onstad watched hopefully.

“I figured Ricardo (Clark) was going to match up on me one on one, and Kyle with (Dwayne) DeRosario, so we wanted to open it up in there,” Mathis explained of the gameplan. “If it was me pushing and try to keep it. For the most part I thought we did a pretty good job of that. The chances we did create we didn’t finish. I thought we were doing alright, but you win on goals and that’s what we need to continue to search for.”

“Give Houston credit-I thought they did really well defensively on free-kicks,” noted Mathis. “They seemed to get that nudge or head on the ball or just barely get that clearance to give us another corner. We kept working and getting some of the services, but as long as we keep creating those chances some are going to go our way.”

Kinnear was proud not only of the result, Houston’s first shutout on the season, but also of the effort as well. “We got our first shutout of the year against a team pretty capable of scoring goals. I like the way that you saw 11 guys, wherever the ball was, you saw 11 sets of legs running. Sometimes on the road you can’t bring your best game, but if you try and will yourself to win good things can happen.”

The other story was the amount of fouls committed by both sides, 32 in all called by the referee. Many of which gave both sides time to move their attackers up field into position while Houston tried to hang on to their lead. “I think they were getting a lot of free kicks and getting a lot of balls sent in the box,” said Dynamo defender Wade Barrett. “A lot of it was not in our favor. We said at halftime that that was one thing we wanted to prevent was keep giving up free kicks because it gives them opportunities to get in the box. You never know what’ll happen on something like that.”

Petke, always the diplomat, was also not happy with the amount of whistles breaking up any rythym to the game’s second half as evidenced by his praise (?) of the officiating crew. “If there’s anybody’s fault it was ours. It wasn’t the refs’ fault because they’re the best refs in the world. I was watching EPL this morning and the whistle didn’t blow for a good two and a half minutes-that’s not soccer. You have to crack down on the little touch fouls, the glaring looks, you have to call those and disrupt the game like that. I’m being honest I think we have the best refs in the world.”

Fans will have to see how their Rapids respond to the early breakdowns as the season goes on. However, no one in the Colroado locker room is panicking just yet, according to Petke. “I don’t think we played very attractive soccer tonight, but we fought hard. It’s a long season. I think we have more talent this year. Working hard doesn’t always translate into wins. We’re going to put it together it’s just a matter of when.”

Reserve Notes—

On a brighter note, the Rapids reserve squad avenged the previous night’s bad feelings by defeating Houston’s reserve side 2-0 on Sunday morning. Colorado easily controlled play thanks to Dan Gargan and a solid game by Luchi Gonzalez. One goal in each half scored by new addition Thiago Martins, both setup by some nice play from the Gargan, was enough to secure the win.

Houston had an early opportunity on a breakaway on the Rapids goalkeeper Bouna Coundoul, but the athletic Senegal native made a quick reach save above his head as he also went to ground to stop the drive.

Gargan then sent a beautiful cross from the right side to an unmarked Martins. The Brazilian had time to bring the ball down and hammer his shot past Dynamo keeper Zach Wells.

Houston almost equalized at the first half whistle as Ronald Cerritos fired a perfect header into net, but was called offside on the play as time expired.

The second half again saw Gargan slip a low ball in front of Houston’s goalmouth forcing Wells to make a diving stab. He couldn’t hang on and the ball spilled to Martins for an easy tap in and the 2-0 lead.

Lineups:

COL- Coundoul, Wingert, Keel, Harvey, Wasson, Clarke (Kobilka), Gargan (Traeger), Gonzalez, Peterson (King), Martins (Elbaum), Gotsmanov.

HOU-Wells, Goldthwaite, Aloisi, Cochrane, Gray, Wondolowski (Nash), Ianni, Chabala, Holden, Cerritos, Storey.

by Brian Jennings

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Posted by soccer365 at 05:59 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

(Soccer365.com) - Raul Arias said his players never gave up and as a result they were one of the best stories in the '06 Clausura Mexican soccer tournament.

San Luis technical director Raul Arias, lost in a sea of embraces from players and team officials following his team’s improbable last-minute victory, praised his players.

“This is a team of men and tonight we have proven that,” said Arias, referring to his team’s last-minute comeback win, which assures their permanence in the top flight and earns them a shot at the championship.

Arias, who began his playing career at San Luis, and as a coach, guided Necaxa to two titles in ’98, replaced beloved first coach, Carlos Reinoso last November.

“I will always remember this moment, it’s one of the most exciting of my life,” said Arias. “I am satisfied that the team never put down their arms and never stopped fighting.”

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(Goal.com) - Galaxy edge Salt Lake away 3-2 as Wiz and Dynamo nail down key victories.

In Salt Lake, with a goal and two assists from Landon Donovan, the Los Angeles Galaxy upped Real Salt Lake’s winless streak to 17.

Real Salt Lake actually jumped out to an early lead, as Andy Williams found a streaking Jason Kreis for a goal in the 6th minute. However the lead wouldn’t last for long, as Donovan took advantage of a rare Eddie Pope mistake to even the score in the 11th minute.

After tying things up, Los Angeles and their new 4-3-3 formation dominated possession for the first half. In the 26th minute, Chris Albright put his crossing ability on center stage for the U.S. National Team selection on Tuesday. Donovan found Albright on his right, and Albright played the ball from the right corner finding the head of Cobi Jones atop the six-yard box to give L.A. the 2-1 lead.

In the second half, Donovan gathered his second assist on the day as he slipped a beautiful ball to Herculez Gomez for an easy finish. But Salt Lake made a game of it with the substitution of rookie Mehdi Ballouchy into the midfield in the 71st minute..

An active Ballouchy got RSL firing on all cylinders, and brought Salt Lake one goal closer in the 74th minute. Ballouchy found Kreis, who fired it in on the goal from near the L.A. end-line. Amidst cluster in front of the net, Kreis’s ball found second half sub Atiba Harris for the finish. Unfortunately it was a little too late for Real, as the final whistle came before they could get an equalizer.

D.C. United 1, F.C. Dallas 1

After announcing the clubs all-time best IX, D.C. United came out sharp against F.C. Dallas. United took control early with some precision passing, as Alecko Eskandarian crossed a ball over to Josh Gros at the top of the box. Gros then dropped the ball to midfielder Ben Olsen, who launched a left-footed blast from 25-yards out to give the Black-and-Red the 1-0 lead in the 17th minute.

As play evened out later in the half, Dallas knotted the score in the 41st minute. A 25-yard rocket to the lower right hand corner from midfielder Ronnie O’Brien beat D.C. goalkeeper Troy Perkins. Hoops midfielder Mark Wilson was credited with the assist that sent the teams to the locker room tied at one.

United had the better of the chances in the second half, but Dallas ‘keeper Dario Sala refused to let his team go down. D.C.’s best scoring chance came on their first corner kick in the 62nd minute, but Sala blocked a Bobby Boswell header off the goal line. The ball fell to the feet of Josh Gros for the finish; however, Gros was offsides on the play and the score remained even until the final whistle.

Columbus Crew 0, Kansas City Wizards 1

With United’s draw against Dallas, the Kansas City Wizards moved into first place in the Eastern Conference with a 1-0 victory over the Columbus Crew. The Crew were dealt a blow in the 15th minute, as Eddie Gaven was forced to leave the game with an injury. Still the teams played to a fairly even scoreless first half, despite some physical play that lead to a possible fractured nose for K.C. midfielder Sasha Victorine, as well as the substitution of his fellow midfielder Jermaine Hue with a cut lip.

In the 70th minute, the Crew nearly took the lead, as Wizards’ defender Shavar Thomas deflected a Kei Kamara cross towards his teams empty net. Luckily for Kansas City, goalkeeper Bo Oshoniyi was able to poke the ball away with his right foot.

Moments later the Wizards took the lead for good on a counterattack lead out of the back by halftime sub Jack Jewsbury. Jewsbury played the ball up the right side to Victorine who took it to the corner of the Columbus 18-yard box and found a streaking Josh Wolff to his left as Crew ‘keeper Jon Busch came out on him. Wolff placed the ball into the back of the net in the 74th minute for his first of the season and the game’s lone goal.

Colorado Rapids 0, Houston Dynamo 1

Fortunately for Colorado, Brian Ching did not have a hat-trick in the first half this time, but he did give Houston an early lead. Midfielder Dwayne DeRosario found the head of the Dynamo striker on a corner kick initially saved by Rapids ‘keeper Joe Cannon. But the rebound fell to Ching’s feet in the 16th minute for his league leading sixth goal. Still the Colorado Rapids had a good first half that included an energetic performance from Clint Mathis, who started in the midfield for the first time since he left the field when these two met in week one.

The Houston Dynamo took control of possession in the second half after countering for much of the first. The Dynamo’s offense started to find more shots, but few were on target. Then in the 75th minute Colorado nearly evened the score as a Jovan Kirovski free kick from 20-yards out rang the left post of the Houston goal.

Houston continued to dominate possession for the remainder of the match, until forward Alejandro Moreno picked up his second yellow card in the 86th minute. The Rapids tried to take advantage of the man advantage, but the Dynamo held on for the 1-0 victory.

Chivas USA 0, Red Bull New York 0

The Bulls and the Goats played to a scoreless draw at the HomeDepotCenter that had its fair share of excitement. Both goalkeepers turned in solid performances as Chivas ‘keeper Brad Guzan finished the match with five saves, while Tony Meola of the Red Bulls registered seven.

Forward Paco Palencia created several opportunities for Chivas USA on the day, their best coming in the first half. In the 25th minute Palencia played a beautiful cross to midfielder Francisco Mendoza, but some how Mendoza found a way to deflect the pass over the net from six yards out. A few minutes later striker Ante Razov was stopped from a surefire goal on a reaction save by a charging Meola. Eventually New York relaxed and began to control possession as the half went on.

In the second half, the Red Bulls knocked on the door a few times, but were denied by El Guzano. In the 52nd minute Chris Henderson nearly put a shot through the legs of Guzan, but he deflected it out of bounds for a corner kick. Six minutes later, Mike Magee, who came on for an injured Edson Buddle just before the half, put a cross off of the crossbar. When the ball fell back to Magee, the keeper deflected the ball over the post with his foot in a frantic dive to deny New York. In the end, neither team was able to overcome the play of the opposing ‘keepers and each took home a point.

Posted by soccer365 at 01:34 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

(Goal.com) - Manchester United have confirmed people's worst fears over Wayne Rooney's foot injury suffered on Saturday in the loss to Chelsea.

With just eight minutes remaining and United far from winning the match, Rooney went down with a foot injury after a challenge by Paulo Ferreira.

A statement from Manchester United says the England star will be out of action until June.

"Wayne Rooney has a fracture of the base of the fourth metatarsal on his right foot.

"He will be out for six weeks."

With England set to play their first World Cup match on June 10 against Paraguay, a six week recovery period from his foot fracture would mean Rooney could return to action on June 3, a week before England's opener.

Posted by soccer365 at 01:28 PM | Permalink | Comments (5)

(Soccer365.com) - San Luis goes from the brink of relegation to the playoffs, while Club America, Pumas and Tigres fail to make the postseason tournament, and Dorados say goodbye.

San Luis 2 – 1 Atlas

The Tuneros pulled off a stunning comeback to avoid relegation and qualify to the quarterfinals.
Down by a goal late in the game, seeing their hopes of staying in the First Division dwindling, San Luis scored two miraculous goals in a two minute span to not only remain in the top flight of Mexican soccer, but reach the playoffs with a shot at the title.

Centerfielder Alfredo Gonzalez came through with a header in the 88th minute and Uruguayan Marcelo Guerrero shot home the game-winner off a rebound into stoppage time.
Atlas did not make the playoffs.

San Luis will face Atlante in the first round of the playoffs.

Guadalajara 0 – 2 Toluca

A pair of Ivan Castillejos goals sunk the Chivas 2-0 at home Saturday as defending champions, Toluca qualified to the postseason quarterfinals.

Nevertheless, with Tigres losing late Sunday night, the Chivas backed into the playoffs, something they were unable to do in two tourneys last year.

Chivas will face Jaguares in the first round of the playoffs. Toluca will play Cruz Azul.

Sinaloa 0 – 0 UNAM

The visiting Pumas failed to qualify to the postseason for the third straight tournament, but they brought Dorados even further down, as the Sinaloa squad is relegated to Primera A. following their 0-0 draw at home and the San Luis victory.

Equal with San Luis on percentage points, Sinaloa had a much lower goal differential, and thus bid farewell to First Division for the first time.

Veracruz 1 – 1 Morelia

The Sharks scored a late goal that got them a valuable 1-1 draw at home versus Morelia as they guaranteed their permanence in the First Division.

Down by a goal, Lucas Ayala made a play to nail the game-tying goal in the 73rd minute and the Veracruz defense held as the Monarchs went on a furious attack.

However, Morelia earned a playoff spot as Tigres lost late Sunday to Atlante.
Morelia will play number 1 seeded Pachuca in the first round of the playoffs.

Club America 1 – 1 Monterrey

Playing at home against one of the worst teams in the league and needing a win, Club America was just able to tie 1-1 versus Monterrey and missed the playoffs, finishing fifth place in their group.

The goals came from Gaston ‘La Gata’ Fernandez in the 9th for Rayados and in the 22nd from Cristian Gimenez for the Eagles, who end the season in dismal 5th place in Group 1.

UANL 0 – 2 Atlante

The Colts took advantage of a desperate Tigres team and scored two easy goals to eliminate UANL from postseason contention.

Juan Carlos Falcon and Patricio Galaz struck easy goals off long-shots set-up by Tigres’ scoring futility.
With the win Atlante helped themselves to the #4 seed and will play Group 1 rival, San Luis in the first round.

Cruz Azul 3 – 2 Pachuca

In a playoff tune-up, Cruz Azul locked up the #3 seed with a home 3-2 win over table-topping Pachuca.
Tied at 2 in an action-packed first half, Argentinean strike ace, ‘Chelito’ Delgado struck with his left boot to give the Machine the lead for good.

Cruz Azul will square off against defending champion, Toluca in the first round.

Necaxa 0 – 1 UAG

Two teams with slip hopes of making the playoffs clashed Saturday and the Tecos got the better of home squad Necaxa 1-0. But the Owls saw their marginal hopes dashed as Chivas and Morelia were the final two playoff beneficiaries.

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Soccer365.com) - FC Dallas completed the signing of former Argentina U-20 defender Marcos Charras.

FC Dallas has announced the signing of former Argentina-youth international defender Marcos Charras. The 22-year-old left-sided player joins the Hoops after a recent spell at Quilmes of the Argentine First Division, where he arrived in September of 2005 following a six-month stint with Velez Sarsfield, also from the top division in Argentina. Per team policy, terms of the deal were not disclosed.

"We've been searching for a while for a left-sided player," said FC Dallas Head Coach Colin Clarke. "I saw Marcos back in December and it's been a long-time happening to get him here but we're glad to have him here now. He's going to give us options on the left side. He's equally as comfortable as a fullback or a as midfielder, so he has good versatility and he likes to get forward into the attack."

As an 18-year old in 2002, Charras made the jump from the youth system of Rosario Central in Argentina to CSKA Sofia of the Bulgarian First Division. However, prior to joining CSKA, Charras was selected to be part of the practice team that trained against Argentina's National Team prior to the 2002 FIFA World Cup in Japan.

He made his debut with CSKA during league play in August 2002, and in October he played both legs of the club's UEFA Cup first round loss to Blackburn Rovers. The team went on to win the Bulgarian League for the 2002-03 season, in turn advancing to the 2003-2004 European Champions League qualifying rounds. Charras played in both legs in the Third Qualifying Round Champions League loss to Galatasaray in August 2003.

In January 2005, CSKA loaned Charras to Velez Sarsfield, and though he failed to see first team action, was part of the squad that was crowned champions of the Argentine Clausura tournament in July of that year. With a deep team, Charras moved on to Quilmes, where he made his Argentine First Division debut against Racing on November 20, 2005.

Charras has also had success on the international level with his native Argentina. Following the 'sparring team' experience prior to the 2002 World Cup, Charras was selected as one of two foreign-based players to be part of the Argentina's U-20 team that competed in the XXI South American Championships, which were held in Uruguay in January 2003. Charras started the first game of the tournament against Colombia but separated his shoulder in the final minutes, causing him to miss the remainder of the tournament which Argentina would go on to win.

During the summer of 2003, Charras was part of the Argentina U-20 team in the Toulon Youth Tournament in France. On June 13 against England's U-20 team, Charras scored the first goal only seven minutes into the game, which Argentina would go on to win 8-0.

Charras will be eligible to play this weekend against D.C. United and will occupy the fourth Youth International Slot available and will be on the Senior Roster. Forward Abe Thompson moves to the Developmental Roster. Finally, defender Miguel Guante was released.

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Posted by soccer365 at 11:42 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

(Goal.com) - The Clausura is nearing its close with Boca Juniors boosted towards the silverware by a shattering 4-0 win over an imploding Estudiantes in the Xeneizes biggest win so far this Clausura season. Insúa was man of the match with a mature performance and a brace to match; his first breaking the first half ice and his second sandwiched between Palácio and Barros Schelotto.

River Plate were held to a thrilling three-all draw by Gimnasia y Esgrima that – miracles aside – excludes the Millonarios from the title race. Cardetti edged the home side ahead only to see Higuaín equalise still in the first half. A Sambueza penalty gave River a turnaround lead, but it only lasted four minutes as Cornejo evened things up. Morales Neumann seemed to have snatched the three points for River but in the very last minute Vargas snatched a point for the hosts.

Many – including jaded River fans – will be cheering for Lanús’ Cinderella story to have a happy ending after the surprise challengers put three past an imploding Arsenal to leapfrog River Plate and snap at the heels of what appears to be a runaway Boca. The Granates finished the job in a stunning first half, Leto striking in the third minute with Pellettieri and Biglieri blasting the visitors with a decisive double-tap in five furious minutes of first class football. The title, however, is unlikely as Boca would have to strike out against both Olimpo and Independiente.

30/04/2006 Gimnasia y Esgrima LP 3-3 River Plate

30/04/2006 Argentinos Juniors 1-1 Newell’s Old Boys

30/04/2006 San Lorenzo 1-0 Banfield

30/04/2006 Lanús 3-0 Arsenal

30/04/2006 Rosario Central 1-0 Vélez Sarsfield

30/04/2006 Boca Juniors 4-0 Estudiantes LP

30/04/2006 Olimpo 0-2 Independiente

30/04/2006 Gimnasia y Esgrima de Jujuy 2-1 Quilmes

30/04/2006 Racing Club 2-0 Tiro Federal

Aaron Marcus

Posted by soccer365 at 10:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

(Goal.com) - Chelsea produced an emphatic performance to beat their closest rivals Manchester United 3-0 and clinch their second successive Premiership title.

A first-half goal from Wiliam Gallas (after 5 minutes) and second-half strikes from man-of-the-match Joe Cole (61) and defender Ricardo Carvalho (73) underlined what the league table confirms: Chelsea is the best team in England at the moment.

But from an English perspective, hearts were in mouths when the national talisman Wayne Rooney went down in agony late in the second-half after a seemingly routine challenge by Paolo Ferreira and had to be stretchered off. With the World Cup looming, all thoughts were on England's chances, which are tied directly with the fitness of the country's wunderkind.

Chelsea are currently 12 points clear of United with two games left to play, and only Charlton Athletic, with a draw, have managed to take any points away from Stamford Bridge all season.

Congratulations must be given to Jose Mourinho's Blues, who become the first London side to win back-to-back titles since Arsenal over 70 years ago. For Mourinho himself, this is his fourth successive championship - two with Porto in Portugal being followed by two in England with Chelsea.

Posted by soccer365 at 09:16 AM | Permalink | Comments (8)

(Soccer365.com) - The Bianconeri snapped a 5-game draw streak with a dazzling win at Siena.

Serie A leaders Juventus snapped a string of five draws with a 3-0 triumph at Siena.

Elsewhere, AC Milan remained three back with two to play by blanking Livorno 2-0.

Marco Materazzi’s own goal stood up as Inter Milan fell at Empoli 1-0.

Oliver Dacourt dialed long distance to salvage a 4-4 seesaw share for AS Roma at Chievo.

Tommaso Rocchi scored the only goal as Lazio earned UEFA Cup football with a win over Lecce.

Fiorentina were punished for wastefulness when Palermo striker David Di Michele hit the second half 1-0 winner.

Cagliari ensured a stay in the top flight by downing Parma 3-1.

Reggina shipped Messina off to Serie B with a 3-0 defeat.

Finally, Francesco Flacchi rallied Sampdoria for a 1-1- draw with Udinese and Treviso shared four with visiting Ascoli.

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Posted by soccer365 at 09:11 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

(Soccer365.com) - Baptista's late score gives Real Madrid third place in La Liga.

Julio Baptista converted an early second half penalty kick to give Real Madrid a 1-0 victory at direct third place rivals Osasuna.

Meanwhile, Valencia stalled Barça title celebrations with a 3-0 win over Alavés.

Mallorca claimed important survival points with a 1-0 success at Atlético Madrid.

UEFA Cup finalists Sevilla scored a 2-1 win at nine-man Real Sociedad.

Getafe and Villareal swapped goals in the opening two minutes, then settled for a 1-1 draw.

Racing Santander doomed Málaga to the drop with a 3-2 defeat.

Espanyol hung on with 10 men for a 1-1 draw at Real Zaragoza.

On Saturday, leaders Barcelona pipped Cadiz 1-0 on an early Ronaldinho marker.

Celta Vigo moved closer to a Champions League place by winnign away to Deportivo la Coruña 2-0.

At last, Real Betis keeper Toni Dobias fumbled an Ismael Urzaiz effort to allow Athletic Bilbao back for a 1-1 draw.

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Posted by soccer365 at 09:08 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

(Soccer365.com) - Thiago and Rolfe goals spark comeback as the Fire downed the Revs Saturday.

Twin strikes in a four-minute span from Thiago and Chris Rolfe rallied Chicago for a 2-1 road win over New England.

The Revolution took the lead in the 54th minute thanks to Taylor Twellman’s first goal of the season.

The Fire responded through Thiago 10 minutes later, then Rolfe quickly added the winner.

"It was a huge game for us to win, coming to New England after losing to them last year in the playoffs," said the striker.

"Hopefully it was inspirational for us as we're on the road for five games."

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Posted by soccer365 at 09:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Madrid, Spain (Sports Network) - Runner-up Valencia secured a 3-0 win over struggling Alaves Sunday to once again prevent Barcelona from capturing its second straight La Liga title.

The defending champion defeated Cadiz, 1-0, Saturday, but needed a loss from Valencia to reclaim the crown.

Valencia midfielder Ruben Baraja opened the scoring in the 24th minute as he sent Pablo Aimar's assist past Alaves goalkeeper Franco Costanzo.

Minutes later, Aimar added his own as he fired from close range, handing Valencia a 2-0 lead.

Teammate David Villa then sealed the win, scoring on a penalty which marked his 23rd league goal of the season.

Valencia now trails Barcelona by eight points with three matches remaining. Barca will have another opportunity to acquire the title Wednesday when it faces fifth-place Celta.

Also in La Liga play on Sunday, last-place Malaga dropped out of the top flight after falling 3-2 to Racing; Real Madrid improved its lead over Osasuna after defeating the club, 1-0; Getafe finished in a 1-1 draw with Villarreal, along with Zaragoza and Espanyol; Sevilla slid past Real Sociedad, 2-1; Mallorca shut out Atletico Madrid, 1-0.

On Saturday, Celta beat Deportivo, 2-0 and Real Betis and Athletic Bilbao finished with a 1-1 draw.

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