tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-57087423662381853542012-01-30T21:16:06.502-05:00Football is the most important thing among the least important things. - Jorge ValdanoFrancisco Lutteckehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13517037315754785433noreply@blogger.comBlogger2171100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708742366238185354.post-89748772332697914042010-07-30T15:04:00.002-04:002010-07-30T15:05:00.433-04:00

Contrary to what many of you may have been expected, the North Korean team, fresh off their embarrassing World Cup, is home safe and sound.  The team has not been physically punished -- at least not yet -- but they were punished nonetheless. As this report finds, the Red Mosquitoes were subject to a six-hour session of ridicule and abuse, or as the Guardian says eloquently, an excoriation, from

ArmenoRicanFutbolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08276793724710891323noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708742366238185354.post-80169777436442812492010-07-30T12:29:00.000-04:002010-07-30T12:29:13.554-04:00

This is what I've come to at the moment, just posting about a penalty shootout by 17 year olds.  But, it's about the only good news for DC United fans this summer (I'm grasping for straws here).  And really, has anyone had a better shootout performance than making five straight stops and scoring the winning kick??  Props to the amazingly named Dakota Niedermeier. The first of his five saves is

ArmenoRicanFutbolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08276793724710891323noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708742366238185354.post-88704616982363003002010-07-22T13:50:00.000-04:002010-07-22T13:50:04.618-04:00

Anyone else have the same feeling?  Constantly craving?  Checking sites like ESPN for news only to realize that there's absolutely NOTHING going on right now? After the month long orgiastic spectacle in South Africa, we have to content ourselves with MLS or news that James Milner wants to move to Man City.  Be still my beating heart. The European leagues haven't started yet and though some of

ArmenoRicanFutbolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08276793724710891323noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708742366238185354.post-89512201152027244762010-07-10T00:47:00.000-04:002010-07-10T00:47:32.377-04:00

Thanks to my friend for passing on the following links, which I'll gratefully pass on for anyone else to check up on. Here's an article from Slate on why we should root against the Dutch, a Vanity Fair piece by David Winner (he of the fantastic book Brilliant Orange) on the changing Dutch and German rivalry, and a really interesting blog post, a little older, on Barcelona and the Idea of the

ArmenoRicanFutbolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08276793724710891323noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708742366238185354.post-856426531881541852010-07-08T09:32:00.002-04:002010-07-08T14:13:31.309-04:00

While most people heading into the tournament were dreaming of a Brazil-Spain final, I think most neutrals would happily settle for the Dutch and Spanish - probably the two teams most stylish teams, the two most committed to playing attacking football (along with Argentina and Chile).  Let it be known that I predicted this final before the tournament in my bracket, which I ultimately never paid

ArmenoRicanFutbolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08276793724710891323noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708742366238185354.post-20326210802131380932010-07-06T23:10:00.000-04:002010-07-06T23:10:20.958-04:00

With today's victory over the Uruguayans, the Netherlands are a step closer to winning their elusive first World Cup title.  Awaiting us is a possible classic rematch of the 1974 World Cup final with the Germans or a matchup with Spain that would guarantee a new country will win its first title (not too mention a great matchup of possession oriented attacking teams). It's hard to root against

ArmenoRicanFutbolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08276793724710891323noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708742366238185354.post-35237026524823853482010-07-06T09:15:00.002-04:002010-07-06T09:16:25.102-04:00

If you haven't seen, here is Nike's follow up to its Write the Future ad campaign, which famously debuted to much hype and is now infamous for its stars failing said hype.  This new ad features a variety of American youths thanking the USMNT for playing hard, attacking, never diving, and scoring that goal.  Short and to the point, kinda cool I think.

ArmenoRicanFutbolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08276793724710891323noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708742366238185354.post-2538027440170761682010-07-02T23:55:00.002-04:002010-07-03T00:04:07.304-04:00

Has there even been an ending to match as happened today?  Have many teams in any sport ever last so cruelly? I was technically a neutral, but really everyone ends up rooting for a team during these matches.  Today, I imagine most people were rooting for Ghana, which I'll be perfectly honest in saying I don't understand if you are a USA supporter how you could support Ghana. People were trying

ArmenoRicanFutbolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08276793724710891323noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708742366238185354.post-1388820076751915352010-07-01T15:28:00.001-04:002010-07-01T15:28:37.267-04:00

I love it when Bill Simmons writes about soccer, as he did again today. Is anyone better at creating or addressing sports/cultural  talking points? Now, everyone who knows soccer knows that Simmons doesn't know soccer well, at least yet.  Whereas before he either admitted as much or made really obviously stupid comments, he's slowly getting better. For instance, he's gotten good enough to

ArmenoRicanFutbolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08276793724710891323noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708742366238185354.post-70179785130816155882010-06-29T17:51:00.000-04:002010-06-29T17:51:03.461-04:00

Nike's "Write the Future" advertisement was a brilliant campaign, a continuation of the long history of great spots Nike has created for the World Cup.  However, this year it seems they may want to re-consider their casting agency. Let's see: -Didier Drogba broke his arm before the games even started and Côte d'Ivoire never looked like going through their difficult group. -Fabio Cannavaro

ArmenoRicanFutbolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08276793724710891323noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708742366238185354.post-56422683272832987712010-06-27T13:30:00.000-04:002010-06-27T13:30:11.348-04:00

I'm not sure I've ever felt so deflated about an entire tournament as the result of one loss.  After all the great moments and excitement from the US the last two weeks, they just laid an egg against an inferior team.  It's one thing to lose if we played well and just couldn't get it done, or we lost to a superior team.  This time, there's just four years of regrets and what ifs. First, I

ArmenoRicanFutbolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08276793724710891323noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708742366238185354.post-41518887939413656012010-06-24T17:06:00.001-04:002010-06-24T17:47:02.695-04:00

First, before some videos, I have a few thoughts to put out there, aside from the obvious of how amazing it felt when Donovan scored that goal. I had no real reason to dislike Algeria before.  I didn't particularly know much about the country.  As far as I was concerned, they were famous for being the birthplace of a pair of immigrants to France who produced the greatest footballer of his

ArmenoRicanFutbolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08276793724710891323noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708742366238185354.post-10769122607878000252010-06-20T18:54:00.001-04:002010-06-20T18:55:07.493-04:00

I haven't been able to post any thoughts on the World Cup yet, having caught the first weekend of games then spending the week watching games on travel. Finally home and with a chance to lay out some thoughts on a World Cup that has been all over the place. After the first week, I don't think too many observers were surprised, if still disappointed, that the opening round of group matches were

ArmenoRicanFutbolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08276793724710891323noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708742366238185354.post-90217811495077061662010-06-10T10:55:00.001-04:002010-06-10T10:57:50.003-04:00

Just one day before the fun kicks off with South Africa hosting perennial second round losers Mexico.  So I'm sure everyone is fiending for their World Cup fix. There's plenty out there to read previewing the Cup, but here are some not so serious stuff to beware of. It's being reported that FIFA apparently requires its referees to learn English swear words for the World Cup.  Not just for the

ArmenoRicanFutbolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08276793724710891323noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708742366238185354.post-51929911980198325642010-06-05T14:53:00.000-04:002010-06-05T14:53:31.026-04:00

The US closed out its World Cup tune ups with a 3-1 victory over Australia this morning, leaving Bob Bradley with a few big decisions to ponder. Starting from the back, this match didn't really provide many answers, other than confirming that the US backline is probably the USA's biggest problem area, not the forwards that so many people fretted over. Going into the training camp, the first

ArmenoRicanFutbolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08276793724710891323noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708742366238185354.post-39993360320576656252010-06-03T12:57:00.000-04:002010-06-03T12:57:13.614-04:00

As the World Cup draws ever nearer, major new outlets are increasing their soccer coverage, ranging from your basic US Men's National Team news to full World Cup team profiles, historical profiles, general interest stories, and other new, fresh takes on the sport. One topic I've noticed creeping around the landscape recently is the major difference between the development of soccer players

ArmenoRicanFutbolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08276793724710891323noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708742366238185354.post-19349434817669846232010-06-02T11:32:00.000-04:002010-06-02T11:32:24.472-04:00

Only nine days before the World Cup kicks off and 10 days before the cross-Atlantic battle between the US and England. Over the course of the month, many of the world’s greatest athletes will be on display. It’s a long lamented fact that the USA’s best athletes are found in other sports. If Cristiano Ronaldo grew up in the United States, he’d be a wide receiver or third baseman or point guard

ArmenoRicanFutbolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08276793724710891323noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708742366238185354.post-31927236152764224372010-05-26T14:11:00.000-04:002010-05-26T14:11:01.136-04:00

Bob Bradley has just announced the 23-man USA roster for the World Cup: Goalkeepers: Brad Guzan, Marcus Hahnemann, Tim Howard. Defenders: Carlos Bocanegra, Jonathan Bornstein, Steve Cherundolo, Jay DeMerit, Clarence Goodson, Oguchi Onyewu, Jonathan Spector. Midfielders: DaMarcus Beasley, Michael Bradley, Ricardo Clark, Clint Dempsey, Landon Donovan, Maurice Edu, Benny Feilhaber, Stuart Holden,

ArmenoRicanFutbolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08276793724710891323noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708742366238185354.post-74483563487850731752010-05-20T22:06:00.000-04:002010-05-20T22:06:32.828-04:00

Nike's up to it again, with another sick football commercial with all the stars (what's that, that Brazilian guy isn't going to the World Cup??), following up on the Take It to the Next Level commercial, their classic first person point of view commercial that showed you going through the ranks from pub team to Arsenal to playing against Brazil and Ronaldinho (there's that man again) playing for

ArmenoRicanFutbolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08276793724710891323noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708742366238185354.post-63556415564249951832010-05-17T10:43:00.000-04:002010-05-17T10:43:03.681-04:00

A very interesting bit of news today is that USA central defender Oguchi Onyewu has signed a one-year extension at AC Milan, keeping him at the San Siro through the 2012-13 season.  That's not the really interesting part. Oguchi offered, and Milan duly accepted, to play that final season for free.  Noble gesture, in light of his injury-missed season?  Or stupidity, because why play for free when

ArmenoRicanFutbolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08276793724710891323noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708742366238185354.post-36060722811352394532010-05-13T10:20:00.000-04:002010-05-13T10:20:12.273-04:00

After a long, excruciating wait for a return to European glory, Madrid has found itself back among Europe's elite champions, thanks to their ex-Manchester United goal-scoring hero. What's that you say, Real Madrid were knocked out of the Champions League way  back in the first knockout round? But of course, I meant those cross-town losers, Atlético Madrid. Early in the season, back in October,

ArmenoRicanFutbolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08276793724710891323noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708742366238185354.post-86992245683684947542010-05-11T17:14:00.002-04:002010-05-11T17:17:54.076-04:00

The 30-man provisional World Cup roster for the US was announced today: Goalkeepers: Tim Howard, Marcus Hahnemann, Brad Guzan Defenders: Carlos Bocanegra, Oguchi Onyewu, Steve Cherundolo, Jonathan Spector, Jay DeMerit, Clarence Goodson, Jonathan Bornstein, Heath Pearce, Chad Marshall Midfielders: Landon Donovan, Clint Dempsey, Michael Bradley, Stuart Holden, Ricardo Clark, Maurice Edu, Benny

ArmenoRicanFutbolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08276793724710891323noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708742366238185354.post-84598754539031983412010-05-08T15:17:00.000-04:002010-05-08T15:17:23.929-04:00

Need more proof of who is the best color man in sports?  After Leo Messi struck again today against Seville to give Barcelona the early lead, loyal watchers of GolTV were blessed with the following: "He plays like he has Woody Woodpecker down his shorts all the time."  No further explanation followed.  Ladies and gentlemen, Mr. Ray Hudson!  That is all.

ArmenoRicanFutbolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08276793724710891323noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708742366238185354.post-39942700269388362002010-05-07T16:47:00.000-04:002010-05-07T16:47:07.880-04:00

Is there are group with more villains in it than Group A?  It's like the Anti-Super Best Friends.  It's like the Legion of Doom.  It's like a team of Fox News personalities. What made Group A interesting when first announced what how balanced it was. This year's World Cup groupings seem especially balanced, and while a few groups are harder than others and some have a clear cut favorite, there's

ArmenoRicanFutbolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08276793724710891323noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708742366238185354.post-32083440589391657302010-04-30T17:17:00.008-04:002010-04-30T17:36:50.874-04:00

I’m going to perform a little exercise in which I write about and quote analysis on two teams that were upset Wednesday despite being heavy favorites to win their respective championships in two different sports. (No cheating and peeking at the footnotes to see which quotes refer to whom.) One team was supposed to be all conquering, an attacking powerhouse. “They scored goals in bunches,

ArmenoRicanFutbolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08276793724710891323noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708742366238185354.post-38560951779883651792010-04-28T16:31:00.002-04:002010-04-28T16:41:16.351-04:00

Before getting to the Champions League Final pairing of Bayern Munich and Inter Milan at another date, here are some links and discussion of some reading on the US team and the World Cup to be found on ESPN Soccernet and elsewhere. They’ve been running a series of features, one series called “World Cup 101 – 101 features in 101 days.” ESPN’s been using a lot of statistical analysis in its

ArmenoRicanFutbolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08276793724710891323noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708742366238185354.post-74854889385561136862010-04-19T21:25:00.002-04:002010-04-19T21:33:19.277-04:00

Those of you who read ESPN's Bill Simmons, aka the Sports Guy, are probably well aware of a few of his well-know rules for being a true sports fan. One of those rules, one that often goes without saying, is the prohibition against sports bigamy. However, being a soccer fan, particularly one in the United States, presents a much different situation than your typical NFL, NBA, or NHL fan.  I have

ArmenoRicanFutbolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08276793724710891323noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708742366238185354.post-91033340062872871382010-04-07T11:42:00.001-04:002010-04-07T11:47:58.485-04:00

I suppose you might have heard about this diminutive forward/winger Lionel Messi.  You might also have heard he's not a half-bad player. Well, as if there was some debate about who is the best player in the world, the Leo Messi Show yesterday against Arsenal erases any doubt: Which of the four was the best?  Can you even choose?  The chipped finish to complete the hat trick was fantastic,

ArmenoRicanFutbolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08276793724710891323noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708742366238185354.post-75904544777620341452010-04-06T15:20:00.000-04:002010-04-06T15:20:47.016-04:00

This winter was one of the worst in recent memory in DC, with record breaking snow falls. But this weekend finally brought with it not just long-desired spring weather (some would say early summer weather), but a chance to exalt in the hope of a new season and to celebrate those new beginnings with fellow revelers in some quality tailgating. One problem though was that with all that snow from

ArmenoRicanFutbolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08276793724710891323noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708742366238185354.post-17609371507302727852010-04-01T12:15:00.002-04:002010-04-07T11:58:40.881-04:00

If you have18 minutes to kill, you need to watch the highlights of yesterday's amazing Barcelona-Arsenal match.  It was the biggest 2-2 thrashing you'll ever see.  Quite an amazing result indeed.  Barca should have killed the match beyond any doubt before Arsenal got back in the game.  You'd have to think the tie is beyond Arsenal anyway with the two away goals and considering how the utter

ArmenoRicanFutbolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08276793724710891323noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708742366238185354.post-73271620583083860872010-03-31T13:24:00.003-04:002010-03-31T13:31:04.434-04:00

If there was a piece of injury news that could completely overshadow Bayern turning the tables on Manchester United with a late injury time winner, it was the one piece of news a city and nation feared most. Wayne Rooney, injured. Part of a double blow, Rooney awkwardly injured his ankle while the ball was taken in the other direction, eventually leading to the game winning goal after Ivica Olic

ArmenoRicanFutbolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08276793724710891323noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708742366238185354.post-39156745322155781562010-03-29T17:26:00.005-04:002010-03-29T17:31:39.649-04:00

We're down to the elite 8 of Europe's finest this week, with the Champions League featuring maybe not the most exciting quarterfinal match ups ever, but certainly a string of March upsets (sensing a theme here?) have left a number of underdogs still in the field. The one mouthwatering tie above all others is Barcelona-Arsenal on Wednesday.  If ever there was a match to get your friends who say

ArmenoRicanFutbolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08276793724710891323noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708742366238185354.post-8089918652208640772010-03-24T20:33:00.010-04:002010-03-26T23:19:02.670-04:00

D.C. is in the midst of ongoing change, a time of transition if you will. And I'm not just talking about continued gentrification or Congress (at least the majority of it) finally putting the American people first and passing historic legislation.Maybe I don't have a great memory, but this year appears to involve more change and uncertainties than I can remember in the DC sports scene. The

ArmenoRicanFutbolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08276793724710891323noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708742366238185354.post-78269180651085874492010-03-24T11:38:00.006-04:002010-03-24T12:11:58.088-04:00

Not having posted regularly, or at all recently, there is just too much to actually cover. I could talk about how Wayne Rooney continues to lead Man U towards an historic fourth straight title and record breaking 19th overall, or how Leo Messi decided he was going to show all those Rooney lovers out there who is really the best player on the planet.In fact, Messi has been on such a tear, not

ArmenoRicanFutbolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08276793724710891323noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708742366238185354.post-51845175244676417692010-03-12T09:57:00.005-05:002010-03-12T11:19:24.283-05:00

There are a lot of news pieces the past few days I want to cover, some good, some not so good.Starting with the bad news, reports indicate the MLS players union voted 350 to two in favor of a strike if a new collective bargaining agreement can't be reached before the start of the season in two weeks. For a still relatively new league going into a key year, with expansion, increased attention to

ArmenoRicanFutbolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08276793724710891323noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708742366238185354.post-65638061242230843062010-03-10T11:24:00.005-05:002010-03-10T11:44:29.966-05:00

Champions League football has returned and we now have the first two teams in teh quarter finals after Arsenal trounced Porto 5-0 and Bayern Munich got a screamer from Arjen Robben to push them past Fiorentina on away goals.Here's Robben's goal: Arsenal appear to be hitting full stride at the right time, not just in the Champions League but also in the EPL, where they sit level on points with

ArmenoRicanFutbolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08276793724710891323noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708742366238185354.post-13887020150593979552010-03-09T10:40:00.004-05:002010-03-09T11:51:35.925-05:00

Not to make this a Landon Donovan blog, but his loan to Everton has been a large story for US soccer fans. This weekend he played what might be his last game in front of the Everton faithful at Goodison park, with his last potential match being at Birmingham. Donovan come on as a substitute and scored a nice goal and had an assist. He should have had two assists but a beautiful ball for Yakubu

ArmenoRicanFutbolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08276793724710891323noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708742366238185354.post-74389443838407295572010-03-04T10:21:00.005-05:002010-03-05T09:48:39.309-05:00

The big news from the US game against the Netherlands yesterday was Stuart Holden's fractured fibula that will keep him out for six weeks. The current long-term injury list for the US includes Charlie Davies, Oguchi Onyewu, Clint Dempsey, Steve Cherundolo, and now Stuart Holden.On the plus side, all (including Davies, according to reports) will be back on the field in time for the World Cup.

ArmenoRicanFutbolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08276793724710891323noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708742366238185354.post-64873393314859793912010-03-01T14:05:00.006-05:002010-03-01T14:38:05.441-05:00

Generally it's not good to fire your coach right before the season or a big tournament starts. You stick with what got you there. But the Côte d'Ivoire said to hell with that conventional thinking, firing Bosnian manager Vahid Halilhodzic. The rumor mill speculation is that Dutch gun for hire and football nomad Guus Hiddink will take over for the World Cup. How is that possible, seeing as the

ArmenoRicanFutbolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08276793724710891323noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708742366238185354.post-70201305035848362472010-02-24T09:38:00.003-05:002010-02-24T10:25:03.088-05:00

According to numerous reports, including this latest update from the Washington Post's Soccer Insider, MLS and the Players Union are still far apart on the negotiations for a new collective bargaining agreement. The big issues include player free agency, central MLS office control over team y and contracts, and guaranteed contracts, among others. Here's a longer piece detailing some of the

ArmenoRicanFutbolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08276793724710891323noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708742366238185354.post-19158571752099715482010-02-22T16:00:00.003-05:002010-02-22T16:13:22.818-05:00

A Valentines Day ad from Puma featuring some Tottenham Hotspur hooligans. Pretty awesome I think. Especially the random people sitting to the left through the whole thing.Song: Truly Madly Deeply by Savage Garden

ArmenoRicanFutbolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08276793724710891323noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708742366238185354.post-5784791611645407302010-02-20T20:19:00.006-05:002010-02-20T21:16:55.649-05:00

Since a certain Californian joined the blue half of Merseyside this January, Everton have played seven Premier League games, including matches against the entire top 5, plus a Europa League match against Sporting Lisbon. A murderers row for your season, if you will.Yet the Toffees record in those eight games - a stellar 6 wins, 1 tie, 1 loss.In back to back games now, Everton have defeated

ArmenoRicanFutbolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08276793724710891323noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708742366238185354.post-20478957610553988782010-02-13T09:43:00.004-05:002010-02-13T10:54:51.975-05:00

Well, mine has been an extended absence, so I think it's only appropriate to inquire if there's anyone out there. With the World Cup fast approaching, Champions League starting up again, and domestic leagues kicking it up into full throttle, I hope you are still out there. Out there or not, it's probably time to take a solid look at European football through the Champions League lens. First

Francisco Lutteckehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13517037315754785433noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708742366238185354.post-1770951337632130832010-02-02T17:52:00.004-05:002010-02-02T18:34:16.624-05:00

There has been a lot of soccer played recently in various competitions, ranging from internationals friendlies to the African Cup of Nations to league matches to all manner of domestic cup competitions.So, here's some quick hitting thoughts about all that's been happening.--Manchester United beat Arsenal 3-1 over the weekend, lead by a scintillating performance from Nani and Wayne Rooney as

ArmenoRicanFutbolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08276793724710891323noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708742366238185354.post-51273767366140441972010-01-25T16:16:00.005-05:002010-01-25T17:22:34.995-05:00

For US fans, this update on Charlie Davies's miraculous on-going recovery from the injuries he sustained from that deadly car accident back in October is a must read.I'm still not willing to consider him for a World Cup spot until I see him on the field because I know how much remains before he can get back on the field and how so many players suffer injury setbacks when trying to come back too

ArmenoRicanFutbolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08276793724710891323noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708742366238185354.post-8391212128553959242010-01-19T12:12:00.005-05:002010-01-19T16:53:54.104-05:00

If you've been following the news recently there's been a number of items of interest to USA fans. Unfortunately, some of that news portends badly for the US's World Cup hopes.Starting with the latest injury news, midfield/striker Clint Dempsey suffered a possible PCL injury this weekend for Fulham. A serious knee ligament injury at this point of the year could throw his World Cup in doubt, and

ArmenoRicanFutbolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08276793724710891323noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708742366238185354.post-85995830402397574382010-01-11T11:32:00.004-05:002010-01-11T11:58:16.544-05:00

Earlier this month it was announced by ESPN that they were beginning a new venture -- 3D programming. The the 3D channel will broadcast live events (85 for the first year), while remaining dark during all other times (no re-runs). Of note, up to 25 matches of the World Cup -- including the opening match, South Africa v. Mexico -- will be shown in 3D.Of course 3D is currently all the rage, what

ArmenoRicanFutbolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08276793724710891323noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708742366238185354.post-31358368470892521082010-01-03T12:59:00.003-05:002010-01-03T15:21:03.729-05:00

One of the more famous football rivalries was renewed today for the first time in nearly six years, with a major upset in the FA Cup. The Roses rivalry between Leeds United and Manchester United has long been contentious, and quite often was a battle among the top sides in England. Leeds famously overhauled Man U in the final season before the Premier League was created and Man U became the

ArmenoRicanFutbolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08276793724710891323noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708742366238185354.post-48624166336113624972009-12-28T14:41:00.013-05:002009-12-30T17:21:08.839-05:00

For those of you looking for some interesting reading that doesn't involve vampires, Dan Brown's (in)eloquence, or the incomprehensible ramblings of an ex-Alaskan governor or a tearful conservative TV host, there is some relief. Pick up Soccernomics: Why England Loses, Why Germany and Brazil Win, and Why the U.S., Japan, Australia, Turkey-And Even Iraq-Are Destined to Become Kings of the World's

ArmenoRicanFutbolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08276793724710891323noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708742366238185354.post-89152985470399440432009-12-16T16:24:00.003-05:002009-12-16T17:04:10.915-05:00

Today Barcelona beat North American champions Atlante 3-1 in Abu Dhabi in the Club World Cup. Barca already had a historic season, becoming the first Spanish team to win the treble last year (La Liga, Copa del Rey, UEFA Champions League). But they just continue to win everything imaginable, simply leaving all in their wake.At one point in 2009, after winning the Football League Cup, a.k.a. the

ArmenoRicanFutbolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08276793724710891323noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708742366238185354.post-16063677545565006242009-12-10T16:07:00.004-05:002009-12-10T16:48:15.537-05:00

The group stages are done in the UEFA Champions League, here is the list of teams advancing:Group A: Bordeaux, Bayern MunichGroup B: Manchester United, CSKA MoscowGroup C: Real Madrid, AC MilanGroup D: Chelsea, FC PortoGroup E: Fiorentina, LyonGroup F: Barcelona, Inter MilanGroup G: Sevilla FC, VfB StuttgartGroup H: Arsenal, OlympiakosFor those of you scoring at home, the teams break down as

ArmenoRicanFutbolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08276793724710891323noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708742366238185354.post-37266330701378694512009-12-08T13:38:00.004-05:002009-12-08T14:10:07.795-05:00

If you'd like a preview of many of the players who'll be featuring in South Africa in the summer of 2010, today and Wednesday provides a chance to see many of those key players.This would be the last matchday for the UEFA Champions League group stage, with a number of spots in the knockout stage still up for grabs.First, in group A, one of the big boys of Europe will be out of the Champions

ArmenoRicanFutbolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08276793724710891323noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708742366238185354.post-79494927882790302742009-12-05T09:37:00.004-05:002009-12-05T10:57:36.199-05:00

Now comes the hard part -- for us fans anyway -- waiting until June for the kickoff of festivities. There's going to be plenty of time to sit around and pour over the matchups, as well as watching club teams to see who's in form and who's not, who's healthy and who's not, who's in or out of your favorite team's squad.In a World Cup year everything becomes focused on that singular goal, in the US

ArmenoRicanFutbolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08276793724710891323noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708742366238185354.post-84586207765808549912009-12-04T09:15:00.004-05:002009-12-04T09:54:42.530-05:00

I suppose it's obligatory to post something in advance of the World Cup draw, seeing as it can practically make or break a nation's Cup hopes.The big brouhaha has been over FIFA's decision to base things on whatever they find most expedient for their needs. In this case, it was using the October FIFA rankings and scrapping past World Cup performance to determine the seeds, leading to the

ArmenoRicanFutbolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08276793724710891323noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708742366238185354.post-54047213880080204372009-11-28T11:04:00.002-05:002009-11-28T19:31:02.247-05:00

I spent all of three seconds thinking of a catchy title for this post. But let's face it - no further introduction is necessary. Barcelona v. Real Madrid says it all. The biggest club game in the world will kickoff tomorrow, Sunday November 29, 2009 at 1:00 p.m. ET from The Camp Nou in Barcelona. GolTV and ESPNDeportes will simulcast the match Stateside.The historical and political context paints

Francisco Lutteckehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13517037315754785433noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708742366238185354.post-55769992753279712472009-11-24T16:56:00.005-05:002009-11-24T17:12:47.644-05:00

Just want to say a quick few words on Ben Olsen, who officially retired today from DC United. Having played in the second most games in team history, the fiery and gritty Olsen was the heart and soul of DC United for so many years.People still seem to forget that when he first came upon the professional scene from college that he was a dangerous attacking player who probably could have locked

ArmenoRicanFutbolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08276793724710891323noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708742366238185354.post-42496177802341051982009-11-23T11:14:00.004-05:002009-11-23T17:16:18.490-05:00

Even in MLS, Mr. Posh Spice can't catch a break in a penalty shootout.After being a part of English teams that lost in penalties in the 1998 and 2006 World Cups, as well as the Euro 2004 championships, David Beckham felt the sting of another shootout loss in the MLS Cup final. Beckham fired in his penalty, but saw Landon Donovan sky a Baggio-esque effort and Nick Rimando continued his PK heroics

ArmenoRicanFutbolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08276793724710891323noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708742366238185354.post-80441918749384316022009-11-19T09:35:00.009-05:002009-11-19T11:18:31.346-05:00

Soooo, where to begin with yesterday's "slight" controversy.Before the video gets taken down, take a look (the replay shows it clearly):Henry admitted the handball, claiming it was not intentional. His intent is certainly debatable, but I wouldn't question that because in the heat of the moment sometimes that kind of thing happens. It's not so much that the handball is intentional but more that

ArmenoRicanFutbolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08276793724710891323noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708742366238185354.post-86050705911290888322009-11-18T10:20:00.005-05:002009-11-18T11:34:09.607-05:00

Today is the big final day of qualifying as 12 teams are vying for the final 6 spots in the 32-team field for the 2010 World Cup.Kicking off first is Algeria v. Egypt. Algeria is best known for producing great French footballers (see Zidane, Zinedine; Nasri, Samir; and Benzema, Karim), while Egypt are the two-time defending Africa Cup of Nations champions. Most of their team is based out of

ArmenoRicanFutbolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08276793724710891323noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708742366238185354.post-64176341987010129962009-11-16T15:52:00.004-05:002009-11-16T17:04:46.440-05:00

We learned little this weekend, most judgments pending further outcomes.We learned the US has some defensive depth because Jonathan Spector is versatile and can play center back in a pinch. And I hope we can get a chance to see what we have in Edgar Castillo on Wednesday against Denmark (especially seeing as Bornstein was poor against Slovakia). Building defensive depth is never a bad thing (

ArmenoRicanFutbolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08276793724710891323noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708742366238185354.post-16877352346385349222009-11-11T17:14:00.004-05:002009-11-11T18:56:16.221-05:00

What would the world be without ESPN? Even with a sport like soccer, which ESPN does not often feature, though it is doing so increasingly, they can be trusted to provide us with more than just table scraps. Today's unveiling: the Soccer Power Index, a power rankings for national teams.The Soccer Power Index, or SPI, is a power ranking of not just how a team has performed, but according to ESPN

ArmenoRicanFutbolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08276793724710891323noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708742366238185354.post-42573623601174800092009-11-07T00:29:00.003-05:002009-11-07T13:00:15.860-05:00

Madrid, like most major metropolitan areas, boasts two professional football teams: eternal winners Real Madrid, and a band of malcontent losers known affectionately as Patetico Madrid, excuse me, Atletico Madrid. As these two historic teams prepare for their first derbi of the season tomorrow (ESPNDeportes 4 p.m. ET), it's worth examining how each team arrives to what would be the match of the

Francisco Lutteckehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13517037315754785433noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708742366238185354.post-44258165803790259922009-11-07T00:23:00.004-05:002009-11-07T12:54:53.435-05:00

ESPN has the best footage of the series of assaults Elizabeth Lambert carried out on several BYU players in the semifinals of the Mountain West Conference. Normally I could care less about college soccer generally, but this clip takes the cake. I don't know whether Lambert's punishment should be harsher or lighter because she's an amateur. My gut says harsher, but either way, between ten and

Francisco Lutteckehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13517037315754785433noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708742366238185354.post-10497253704931703902009-11-06T09:17:00.005-05:002009-11-06T10:05:55.103-05:00

The first MLS playoff tie is over, with Salt Lake defeating the Columbus Crew last night at Crew Stadium 3-2, for a 4-2 aggregate victory. The victory is a big upset for RSL, but probably the biggest subplot for the series was the over-coaching by Robert Warzycha.Despite winning their second consecutive Supporters Shield trophy, the Crew were inconsistent down the stretch, finishing 1-3-1 in

ArmenoRicanFutbolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08276793724710891323noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708742366238185354.post-2722268753881177832009-10-29T15:53:00.022-04:002009-10-29T23:57:23.857-04:00

Tonight marks the beginning of MLS's second season, the playoffs. Expansion Seattle FC and their smug, coffee drinking fans take on the Houston Dynamo before the remaining three pairings start this weekend - Real Salt Lake v. Columbus, New England v. Chicago, and Chivas USA v. LA Galaxy (boy is MLS happy they get to have a playoff edition of the LA Derby -- note, it is not the Super Clásico!

ArmenoRicanFutbolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08276793724710891323noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708742366238185354.post-59862382843129901822009-10-27T12:24:00.005-04:002009-10-27T14:41:32.849-04:00

It's a little late and there are other more current items to discuss, but I still think we need to go over the happenings at Anfield on Sunday.Without going back over the specifics of the Liverpool "crisis" before the game, it seemed everyone was waiting for the final nail in the Red's coffin for this season, only for Liverpool to valiantly pull off the 2-0 victory. It was something of an

ArmenoRicanFutbolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08276793724710891323noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708742366238185354.post-60102224219794267682009-10-22T10:50:00.009-04:002009-10-22T16:57:46.066-04:00

Who said that there's a big team monopoly over the Champions League? And what happened to home field advantage? This most recent round of UEFA Champions League matches bucked a few generally held assumptions and may have livened things up for some teams, while sending a few others into downward spirals from which there appears a long march back.Tuesday in particular saw a few big upsets. First

ArmenoRicanFutbolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08276793724710891323noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708742366238185354.post-3923937928998626552009-10-16T22:56:00.003-04:002009-10-16T23:27:52.389-04:00

The English-speaking press didn't do the best job of picking up/translating Diego Maradona's latest non-footballing gem. Indeed, the man who dazzled all of us on the pitch seems determined to disgust us off it.With Brazil, Paraguay, and Chile through, it was up to Argentina to travel to Montevideo and try to lock up that fourth place spot with a semblance of attractive football. Instead,

Francisco Lutteckehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13517037315754785433noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708742366238185354.post-22086042452918184572009-10-15T14:14:00.014-04:002009-10-23T12:35:31.083-04:00

Sometimes a rare or unusual confluence of things make what should be an ordinary event become something greater. Well, last night at RFK Stadium was surely one such event. From events happening before the game to the progression of events during the game, it all lead to a rather gratifying and joyous last-second 2-2 draw.The USA already qualified for the World Cup, so technically this game was

ArmenoRicanFutbolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08276793724710891323noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708742366238185354.post-47109618604360234702009-10-13T16:18:00.006-04:002009-10-13T22:50:14.786-04:00

I was going to post something about the US team today, maybe look at the current roster status and do something of a power poll for World Cup roster spots. Unfortunately life sucked the air of out of me today as I read the emerging news of a serious car crash involving Charlie Davies early this morning.When I read the headline that Davies was in a deadly car accident, my stomach just dropped.

ArmenoRicanFutbolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08276793724710891323noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708742366238185354.post-42651612502023277152009-10-12T01:30:00.004-04:002009-10-12T12:57:49.164-04:00

ARF gave his thoughts on the USA game, and I don't have much to add. But it's difficult to understate how important it was for this side to get a road win against a quality opponent. And for all the hand-wringing the American side has put themselves (and its fans) through, the US would actually top CONCACAF with a home win against Costa Rica on Wednesday. It will be interesting to see how Bradley

bzimzimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11064855544353423479noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708742366238185354.post-33896618011776879692009-10-11T12:43:00.010-04:002009-10-11T16:10:31.055-04:00

Well that was exhilarating. The USA clinched World Cup qualification with a rather stunning 3-2 victory over Honduras in San Pedro Sula last night. Due to the TV rights debacle, rather than watching the game at home, I watched the game at a bar in DC packed to the hilt with scream USA fans. That was $15 well spent.So all discussion about the game begins and ends with Connor Casey. When the

ArmenoRicanFutbolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08276793724710891323noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708742366238185354.post-39895681303067215102009-10-09T22:32:00.007-04:002009-10-10T12:28:11.327-04:00

Massive five days coming up for the US Men's National Team. San Pedro Sula. Honduras unbeaten at home. Costa Rica. No second chances.Before going into my own thoughts. There's obviously an abundance out there to read up on to prep for the game. Stating the obvious, Jeff Carlisle says the US is wary of los Catrachos' home form, having gone 8-0 during this qualifying cycle. He says watch out for

ArmenoRicanFutbolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08276793724710891323noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708742366238185354.post-49677170092293629422009-10-09T18:54:00.007-04:002009-10-10T08:30:27.193-04:00

It's the international break this weekend, and there are a number of key matches that will define the World Cup race. At this moment, South Africa (host), Japan, Australia, South Korea, North Korea, the Netherlands, England, Spain, Ghana, Brazil and Paraguay are in. Twenty-one spots are yet to be claimed.Here in CONCACAF, the big match of the weekend is obviously the Honduras-USA match. Mexico

bzimzimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11064855544353423479noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708742366238185354.post-8662796682185444262009-10-06T17:02:00.008-04:002009-10-07T07:06:28.617-04:00

Chelsea looked like potential champions all season until the week before the Liverpool game. But a loss to Wigan and an unimpressive win midweek in Champions League led to questions about the Blues heading into their clash with Liverpool. But a comfortable 2-0 win will quiet the critics for the moment.Liverpool started the game on the front foot, and had occasional quality chances throughout.

bzimzimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11064855544353423479noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708742366238185354.post-79157843943324701102009-10-05T17:28:00.015-04:002009-10-07T07:02:05.634-04:00

Today's draw between top four hopefuls Manchester City and Aston Villa signals an end to the most recent round of European League fixtures and a shift to the crucial final matches of World Cup Qualifying. The draw keeps Villa fourth, tied with Tottenham on points for third and one point ahead of Liverpool and Arsenal. Villa stays seventh, a further two points below 'Pool and Arsenal, while also

ArmenoRicanFutbolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08276793724710891323noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708742366238185354.post-38742982985165410562009-10-03T10:11:00.003-04:002009-10-03T11:22:23.171-04:00

This past week has only served to highlight the distance between the two Madrid teams and reinforce the depressed state of Atletico Madrid. This past weekend saw Valencia and Atletico square off in a matchup from which the rojiblancos desperately needed three points. Despite Kun Aguero putting the boys from Madrid up in Mestalla in the 7th minute, goals from Pablo Hernandez (25th) and Villa (27th

Francisco Lutteckehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13517037315754785433noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708742366238185354.post-37901954986028369312009-09-30T07:55:00.006-04:002009-10-01T07:47:08.751-04:00

Somebody call the World Wide Leader's ombudsmen.As ARF correctly pointed out here, football in America is on the up-and-up. We're able to watch more of it than ever on TV - a fact readily apparent when FutbolNation's "What to Watch and Where" is created. The EPL and la Liga have at least five games on every weekend, sometimes six or seven. The Bundesliga has upwards of four, and even the slumping

Francisco Lutteckehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13517037315754785433noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708742366238185354.post-65651274124519599872009-09-29T12:25:00.006-04:002009-09-29T21:21:36.148-04:00

By far the most notable EPL outcome of the week was Wigan's stunning 3-1 victory over Chelsea. Wigan were greatly helped by the penalty/red card combination that came from Cech bringing down Hugo Rodallega in the box. I still think this decision is far too harsh. The red card rule of the last defender bringing down an attacker is largely just, and certainly so if the foul is deliberate. However,

bzimzimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11064855544353423479noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708742366238185354.post-44887711942266072822009-09-28T11:46:00.006-04:002009-09-28T13:38:40.844-04:00

In baseball, and in life, sometimes players go through prolonged hitting slumps. To snap out of it, it's believed that you must swallow your pride and find a "slump buster." You know what I mean. And don't pretend like you've never done it.Well, right now Washington, DC sports is the fat ugly chick with "Slump Buster" stamped across her forehead.Need a guaranteed victory on the diamond... come

ArmenoRicanFutbolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08276793724710891323noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708742366238185354.post-70163123647209909152009-09-26T11:18:00.007-04:002009-09-28T15:04:41.787-04:00

We keep hearing and reading these arguments, as HalaMadrid so dutifully pointed out, that this league is better than that one, no this other one is better, and that other league is pulling the Plax Burress and shooting itself into irrelevancy, etc. etc. etc. Of course we here never stoke those infernos. (Hala's post on La Liga is a must read to get you caught up on the current status of La Liga.

ArmenoRicanFutbolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08276793724710891323noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708742366238185354.post-27062732086525129552009-09-24T20:26:00.006-04:002009-09-26T13:08:00.078-04:00

In the past week several mainstream outlets have addressed how exciting the EPL is , how boring la Liga is, and how badly the EPL's defenses are playing. So my first urge is to launch into another ardent defense of la Liga. But, as we say in Spanish, "Las comparaciones son odiosas." Or, "Comparisons are detestable." Not to mention subjective. The EPL is either lax at the back, or exciting because

Francisco Lutteckehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13517037315754785433noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708742366238185354.post-51731803806453467652009-09-23T15:35:00.009-04:002009-09-23T16:35:45.667-04:00

It's impossible not to be enthralled right now by the football being played by Barca, but their most recent demolition job, against Racing Santander, may have cost them - with Ibra injuring his ankle and now doubtful for the match against Malaga this weekend. I fully admit to thinking his playing style would not mesh well with Barca's style, particularly in light of how different a player he is

ArmenoRicanFutbolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08276793724710891323noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708742366238185354.post-16547893430369694462009-09-23T07:28:00.003-04:002009-09-23T12:04:46.780-04:00

Sol Campbell is leaving Notts County after one month and one match played. Do you care? Should you? I do if only because Sven Goran's failures are only becoming more tragic by the year.It looks like Mark Hughes is willing to let his players and their "emotions" run free. In this case it's Bellamy's behavior at the Manchester derby at issue. While I don't take issue with Bellamy's issue since fans

Francisco Lutteckehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13517037315754785433noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708742366238185354.post-4428961137322332432009-09-21T21:59:00.006-04:002009-09-22T20:16:49.724-04:00

Most of the substance of the terrific Manchester derby has already been covered by ARF, but there's just too much to say about it to not weigh in. As far as the timing issue, I couldn't agree more with the referee who allowed the minute and a half beyond the posted extra time in order to allow for the goal celebration and for the late substitution. Too often referees just blindly follow the

bzimzimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11064855544353423479noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708742366238185354.post-42353119065758410212009-09-21T10:26:00.004-04:002009-09-21T10:49:08.284-04:00

Highlights from the Manchester Derby:Barcelona thrashing Atletico Madrid 5-2:Not to be outdone, Real Madrid dropping five on Xerez (how bad was the defending on the third goal?):

ArmenoRicanFutbolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08276793724710891323noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708742366238185354.post-4882925982558859002009-09-20T14:33:00.011-04:002009-09-21T11:26:59.587-04:00

"Sometimes you have a noisy neighbor. You cannot do anything about that. They will always be noisy. You just have to get on with your life, put your television on and turn it up a bit louder." -SAFIf the European season and World Cup can produce a few games to match today's Manchester Derby, well then we'll be in for quite a treat.This game had so many story lines going in, you often wonder

ArmenoRicanFutbolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08276793724710891323noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708742366238185354.post-66013148450441254872009-09-18T13:40:00.003-04:002009-09-18T14:20:56.006-04:00

This morning HalaMadrid posted a cool fact that Ronaldo's free kicks were around 60 mph against FC Zurich this week, and comparing it to Becks, Alves, and Ronaldinho (all slower) and Robert Carlos (faster). Certainly that makes those shots tougher to save, but as bzimzim commented, even at that speed if the shot is straight at the keeper, he has to make that save. I agree. The second of

ArmenoRicanFutbolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08276793724710891323noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708742366238185354.post-86494245667505852982009-09-18T08:02:00.003-04:002009-09-18T12:03:08.875-04:00

The continuing saga of Adebayor's disgraceful actions against Arsenal only continues. After the FA approved his three-match ban earlier this week, now comes news of his stomping on Cesc Fabregas even before the sanctioned face stomp on Van Persie. While the other ex-Arsenal player on Man City, Kolo Toure, went into the dressing room to apologize directly after the match, Adebayor has limited

Francisco Lutteckehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13517037315754785433noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708742366238185354.post-38400441536674838742009-09-16T15:50:00.004-04:002009-09-16T16:32:22.250-04:00

As most everyone knows by now, and as HalaMadrid noted in his roundup of Tuesday's Champions League action, points are often hard to come by away to Turkish teams, even for the big boys. Well for those lucky enough to watch or even just hear the Man U-Besiktas match, you got a lesson on great football atmosphere. Check out these videos, which confirm why Sir Alex said it was the loudest noise

ArmenoRicanFutbolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08276793724710891323noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708742366238185354.post-75093033474196075332009-09-15T23:32:00.005-04:002009-09-16T11:12:02.867-04:00

The Champions League is officially underway, and it just wouldn't be the old continent's top club competition without some surprises. Actually, only one, sort of "surprise."That, of course, was Atletico Madrid's home draw to the Cypriot and first time Champions Leaguers APOEL FC. The Vicente Calderon was at best half full due in part to the unknown opposition and in part to the Atletico faithful

Francisco Lutteckehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13517037315754785433noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708742366238185354.post-47498733528086819372009-09-14T23:52:00.003-04:002009-09-15T12:01:08.602-04:00

Manchester City's title hopes are up in stock this week, thanks to their 4-2 home win over Arsenal. They played some wonderful flowing football, dominating play toward the end of the match. After coming over from Arsenal during the summer, Emmanuel Adebayor particularly showed his ability on the pitch. He prevented a goal while manning the post during a corner. His beautiful flowing move left

bzimzimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11064855544353423479noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708742366238185354.post-2387930629292463382009-09-14T20:38:00.008-04:002009-09-14T22:25:13.890-04:00

News from all over, so I'll just pick a few random things to point out: A pair of injuries have me a little bummed today - Jermaine Jones may need further surgery on his fractured shin, a blot to those who were hoping to see him suit up for the USA sometime this year. Juventus playmaker Diego is also out with a hamstring injury. He'll miss the Champions League opener against Bordeaux. Fortunately

ArmenoRicanFutbolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08276793724710891323noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708742366238185354.post-47171248649584632222009-09-11T17:25:00.005-04:002009-09-11T17:56:27.933-04:00

The international break is over and we'll soon be back with all your favorite European Leagues (and well how about that, the MLS never stopped! Two DC United games simultaneous with two USA World Cup qualifiers in one week, wonder which games I watched).A lot is being made of Argentina's precarious qualifying position, well the Telegraph chimes in on the Maradona comedy roadshow. The picture

ArmenoRicanFutbolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08276793724710891323noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708742366238185354.post-24293221444249964962009-09-10T22:26:00.003-04:002009-09-10T23:15:54.058-04:00

Working back to front, I have a few observations I want to throw out there after the USA beat Trinidad, all but putting them into the World Cup - and let's face it, even against Honduras and Costa Rica if the US can't get the necessary results with the World Cup on the line, well then heads ought to roll.I think we can all agree Tim Howard is the man. Done.Seeing Oguchi was a welcome return to

ArmenoRicanFutbolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08276793724710891323noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708742366238185354.post-89533241472371689722009-09-10T00:37:00.006-04:002009-09-10T08:00:57.542-04:00

After the Trinidad and Tobago-United States match was completed, Alexi Lalas was asked in post-game wrap-up about the poor play despite the win. He said, "Doesn't matter." That sums it up for me.Obviously, the US did not play well. The first half in particular, it looked like T&T might actually be the better side. They were more cohesive in the midfield and strung passes together better than the

bzimzimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11064855544353423479noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708742366238185354.post-3634137787102686132009-09-09T17:40:00.005-04:002009-09-10T07:56:34.664-04:00

Portugal's World Cup qualification hopes, while far from certain, got a bit of a boost today.First, the Portuguese went on road to Budapest and defeated Hungary, with Pepe's 9th minute header constituting the lone scoring in the match. Obviously, three points were absolutely essential. Second, group leaders Denmark failed to get three points against Albania, drawing away 1-1. If Denmark had won

bzimzimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11064855544353423479noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708742366238185354.post-29073189840905078172009-09-08T21:28:00.004-04:002009-09-08T22:22:06.132-04:00

Despite another victory at home, the US remains in a rather precarious situation in the CONCACAF hexagonal for a World Cup spot. After a few shaky performances and some changes in personnel, I expect Bob Bradley to make a number of changes ahead of tomorrows match in Port of Spain against the Soca Warriors. What might we see?-An entirely different backline. Part of this is good. Oguchi Onyewu

ArmenoRicanFutbolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08276793724710891323noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708742366238185354.post-3626988438099892412009-09-07T22:47:00.005-04:002009-09-08T23:52:54.337-04:00

As discussed in my Saturday morning post, both Cristiano Ronaldo's Portugal team and Lionel Messi's Argentina team confronted this weekend's World Cup qualifiers in precarious situations. Suffice to say, neither ended up in a better position after their respective games.First off, Portugal. I watched bits and pieces of this game, and what was abundantly clear was this: Portugal created chances.

Francisco Lutteckehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13517037315754785433noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5708742366238185354.post-86869765227993308472009-09-06T19:05:00.005-04:002009-09-07T09:09:18.019-04:00

The Americans again fell behind at home, but in the end the United States were clearly the better side and got the needed and deserved three points. But the US allowed things to remain interesting until the end, though that was partially due to a truly baffling referee's decision.With Onyewu out due to yellow cards and Demerit out due to injury, it was a makeshift back four yesterday with Chad

bzimzimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11064855544353423479noreply@blogger.com0