Another round of matches in Europes Premier Club Competition has passed. While each team has only played two of six group games, the tables are already starting to take shape. Some favorites are stuggling, while some of the smaller clubs look to play spoiler come the knock-out rounds in the Spring. So after two of six rounds, here is a group-by-group of all the groups throughout the tournament.
Group A: Bordeaux followed up a draw on the road by defeating Israeli Champions Maccabi Haifa 1-0 in France. Bordeaux controlled the match and outshot Maccabi Haifa 19-13, but it took 83 minutes until Michael Ciani to put the host ahead 1-0. Maccabi's comeback effort was hampered by a red card in the 88th minute. In the other match German giants Bayern Munich played Juventus to a scoreless draw. The Barvarians outshot the Italian club 15-8 at home, but could not find the back of the net. Bayren Munich and Bordeaux are tied atop the group with 4 points, while Juventus is in third with two draws. Maccabi Haifa is not off to a good start, being last with a 0-2 record.
Group B: CSKA Moscow got thier first win of the tournamet winning at home against Turkish Champions Besiktas. Alan Dzagoez put the Red Stars up in the 7th minute, and then a 61st minute tally by Milos Krasic made it 2-0 for the Russian club. Besiktas pulled one back in the 90th thanks to Ekrem Dag, but it was not enough as Moscow won 2-1. In one of the more anticipated match-ups of the round English Champions Manchester United downed German Chapmpions Wolfsburg 2-1. Edin Dzeko silenced the Old Trafford crowd in the 55th minute to put Wolfsburg up 1-0. But Ryan Giggs equalized in the 59th minute. The winner for the Red Devils came in the 78th minute in the form of a Michael Carrick goal. With the win Manchester United is a perfect 2-0 and in first place, Wolfsburg is still in second on goal differencial while Moscow is in third. Besiktas is 0-2, and quickly falling behind.
Group C: Real Madrid continue to roll in the tournament as they put away Marseille 3-0 at the Spanish capital. Cristiano Ronaldo put the Spanish side up 1-0 in the 58th minute. Kaka scored off a PK three minutes later, then Ronaldo sealed the win with a goal in the 64th minute. Madrid looked like contenders after dominating posessions againt the French Club. In what might be the biggest upset so far in the tournament Swiss Champions FC Zurich traveld to AC Milan and beat the Italian jugernaut 1-0. A quick goal in the 10th minute by Hannu Tihinen was all the underdogs needed to shock the Milan fans at the Giuseppe Meazza. Despite outshooting Zurich 21-10, Milan could not find a way past Keeper Johnny Leoni, who recorded the clean sheet. Madrid are in controll being 2-0 with a crucial game against second place Milan coming up. Zurich trail Milan only two tallies in goal differential. French side Marseille are in shock in awe witha disapointing 0-2 start.
Group D: Last year's Cinderella FC Porto continue to have a strong run in this competion. Radamel Falcao and Rolando scored in the 75th and 82nd minutes respectivly to get the Portugeese Champions a 2-0 at home over Atletico Madrid. Madrid had more of the ball but only required Porto Keeper Roberto Gago to make 3 saves to post a shutout. In the other match Chelsea went 2-0 thanks to a goal by Nicolas Anelka in the 18th minute, to give the Blues a 1-0 win on the road against Apoel Nicosia. Chelsea only got two shots on target against the Cyprus Champions. Petr Cech only had to make one save to get the shutout for Chelsea. Chelsea's 2-0 record has put the Blues on top of the group, Porto bounced back from a loss agianst Chelsea to go 1-1 and move into second. While Atletico Madrid and Apoel Nicosia are at the bottom with a point a piece.
Group E: Steven Jovetic scored in the 28th and 37th minute to give the Fiorentina 2-0 victory over Liverpool and get them back in the thick of things in the group. Liverpool outshot the Italian side 13-10, but Sebastian Frey made four saves for the for the Italians side to secure three points at home. Liverpool dominated possesion, but the Reds could not find a way to put the ball into the net. In the other match French powerhouse Lyon cruised to a 4-0 victory over Debrecen. Kim Kallstorm put Lyon on top early in the 3rd minute. Miralem Pjanic and Sidney Govou put two more in for Lyon before the half. Bafetimbi Gomis drove the stake through the heart in the 51st minute, giving the Hungarian Champions a difficult 4-0 home loss. Lyon is now the surprise leaders of the group with a 2-0 record, Fiorentina is in second with a 1-1 mark. Liverpool trail Fiorentina by two marks in goal differential, while Debrecen is 0-2, and has been outscored 0-5.
Group F: Rubin Kazan probablly will not make it out of group stage, but the Russian Champions are proving one thing. A match against Rubin Kazan will be a difficult match. After giving Kiev a scare at home Kazan pulled out a draw at home against Italian power Inter Milan. Alejandro Damian Dominguez put the Russian side up 1-0 in the 11th minute. Inter avoided the upset when Dejan Stankovic found the net in the 27th minute, and Inter came out with a point on the road. The defending Champions are in form as Barcelona beat Dynamo Kiev 2-0. Lionel Messi scored in the 25th minute (every team needs the spark), and Pedrito finished off the Ukrainians in the 76th minute. After two rouncds Barcelona is first in the group with four points, followed by Dynamo Kiev with three. AC Milan is a surpise third place team with 2 points, and Ruban Kuzan is still in the hunt with a point, this group will be fun to watch throughout this stage of the tournament.
Group G: Stuttgart pulled of the clubs second draw in a row as they split the points with Unirea Urziceni. The South German club went up 1-0 early thanks to a 5th minute strike from Serdar Tasci. However, the Romanian Champions answered back with Dacian Vargo goal in the 48th minute to force a 1-1 draw in Romania. In the other match the Rangers home tilt verses Sevilla was going well for the Scottish club-then they played the second half. Abdoulay Konko broke open the scoring in the 50th, Adriano added another in the 64th minute. Luis Fabiano put the match away in the 72nd minute with a goal, and Frederic Kanoutoe made the win sure measure, as Sevilla went to thrash the Rangers 4-1 in Scotland. Sevilla now controlls the group with a 2-0 record, while Stuttgart is in second with 2 points, Urziceni and Rangers both have a point, it is too early to tell who will come out of this group as all the teams have a legitamit shot at advancing.
Group H: Traore Moussa saved Stadard Liege's hope for advancement as the Belgian powerhouse pulled out a 1-1 draw thanks to Moussa's last minute strike. Mounir El Hamdaoui struck in the 48th minute to give the host AZ Alkmaar the lead. The Dutch side looked certain to take three points till a last second heartbreak forced the teams to split the points. In the match of the two group favorites to advance it took Arsenal 76 minutes to break Olympiakos. Robin Van Percy put the Gunners up 1-0 with his strike at Emirates Stadium. Arsenal insured a 2-0 victory on the night thanks to Andrei Arshavin's goal eight minutes latter. Vito Mannoe had to only make two saves for the North London side. Arsenal lead the group with a 2-0 record, Olympiakos is in second with a 1-1 record. In the lowerlands both AZ Alkmaar and Stadard Liege are struggling for advancement with a point each.
While there is plenty of matches left to be played some interesting stories are brewing in the UEFA Champions Leage. While the group stages never really get the glamore of the knock-out stages, much drama can happen as teams try to navigate through their respective groups. With four rounds remaining the action is sure to be exciting.
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
Single Table Format Would Make A Better MLS Product
The MLS is experiencing the most exciting end to the regular season in league history. Both the races for the best league record, and those pivotal playoff positions are still up for grabs. With the MLS finally getting the end to the regular season they have been always wanting, it would be hard to see a need for change. Yet, change is exactly what I am suggesting. The MLS should scrap the ineffective two conference system and move to a traditional (and by American standards a rather unique) singe table format. In a single table format the idea of divisions and conferences would go out the window, just put the teams in order, 1 to 16 and just play. While the initial idea may seem odd, or even trivial there are reasons why this system makes sense.
1. It makes scheduling a whole lot easier: Next year the MLS head office will has the easiest time in recent memory coming up with the league schedule. I do not know what route the league will take, but lately MLS clubs have been playing 30 games a year. Next year there will be 16 teams in MLS. So let us do some math here, 16 teams, means 15 opponents for each team, 15 teams times 2 games (home and away series) equals 30 games. My God that was easy. If you treat every team the same regardless of where they are geographically scheduling will be easy for this year, and the years to come with expansion on the horizon for 2011. Having the league put an emphasis on playing more inter-conference matches will only make the MLS calender more messy. Just keep it simple and go with one group of opponents, than worry about balancing inter-conference and out of conference games.
2. Avoid cheating teams for playing in a tougher conference: Just about once every two or three years you hear the complaints from team who are playing well but missing the post-season after playing well, but just competing in the wrong conference. You will see how in some sports teams complain that they are missing the playoffs because the teams in the conference are having an up year. Had they been in the other conference, they would be well into the playoffs. In the MLS just a little bit less than half of a team's matches are out of conference, so it could be a real possibility that you do well in all your out of conference games, but some of the teams in the outer conference will get in due to being on the weaker side of the league. By having a single table system, everybody would play everybody twice, therefore determining playoff system would be based on a fair system.
3. There is no real reward for wining the conference: Besides the obvious of winning your conference will get you into the Cup final, you do not get a whole lot winning a conference title. If you are the best team in the regular season in your conference you get the right to host the conference final, OK that is a useful perk, which can offer some legitimacy to the conference system. But under my system the same idea can still imply. With a single table format the top 8 clubs will qualify for the playoffs, they would be seeded, and the higher seed gets the right to host the second match in the 2 game aggregate fixture, and the semi-final single match fixture (or if you want another 2 match aggregate fixture). With no reward in terms a silverware or international tournament qualification, the idea of being the conference champion is rather pointless.
4. The current playoff system is already close to my system: Right now if you watch the ESPN analyst breakdown the wild-race they do it by looking at all the contenders in the singe table format. Gee, you think that would give somebody an idea. Right now the current system has the top two teams in each conference advancing and being higher seeds in the playoffs. The final four positions are filled by four of the remaining teams with the highest points. So in reality the top eight teams are going to the playoffs anyway, so why are we kidding are selves by saying that the MLS has two conferences, when teams are competing with other teams for the same playoff positions, when they are SUPPOSEDLY in the same conference. If we were to have a single table format, this years exciting playoff race would look exactly the same. It would only improve the system because now we can avoid the unlikely (but still possible) scenario where the top two teams in one conference would be weaker than the other 6 teams from the other conference who made it to the post-season. Yet if this scenario were to happen, the two weaker teams would manage to be the higher seeds come tournament time. This is wrong, and would cause outrage and cries for reform. So let's fix the problem before it happens, and improve on an already solid system.
A single-table format would be beneficial to all in the league. The league front office will not have to worry about making sure certain clubs have more conference game on their schedules, and I am sure that managers and players will be grateful of a well balanced schedule so they can avoid playing 3 games in 8 days, or the awkward 15 day lay off. The only problem with this year's play-off race is the amount of games in hand that one team has. Next year with 16 teams, nobody should have to play in a bye week, and nobody should have to play that grueling 8 league games in 8 days, (still might happen but only on count of SuperLiga, US Open Cup, and Champions League). A single-table format will produce a new dynamic to the league and make the MLS a more fair, and competitive product. MLS the time is now, abandon the old conference system, and let us have ONE United MLS.
1. It makes scheduling a whole lot easier: Next year the MLS head office will has the easiest time in recent memory coming up with the league schedule. I do not know what route the league will take, but lately MLS clubs have been playing 30 games a year. Next year there will be 16 teams in MLS. So let us do some math here, 16 teams, means 15 opponents for each team, 15 teams times 2 games (home and away series) equals 30 games. My God that was easy. If you treat every team the same regardless of where they are geographically scheduling will be easy for this year, and the years to come with expansion on the horizon for 2011. Having the league put an emphasis on playing more inter-conference matches will only make the MLS calender more messy. Just keep it simple and go with one group of opponents, than worry about balancing inter-conference and out of conference games.
2. Avoid cheating teams for playing in a tougher conference: Just about once every two or three years you hear the complaints from team who are playing well but missing the post-season after playing well, but just competing in the wrong conference. You will see how in some sports teams complain that they are missing the playoffs because the teams in the conference are having an up year. Had they been in the other conference, they would be well into the playoffs. In the MLS just a little bit less than half of a team's matches are out of conference, so it could be a real possibility that you do well in all your out of conference games, but some of the teams in the outer conference will get in due to being on the weaker side of the league. By having a single table system, everybody would play everybody twice, therefore determining playoff system would be based on a fair system.
3. There is no real reward for wining the conference: Besides the obvious of winning your conference will get you into the Cup final, you do not get a whole lot winning a conference title. If you are the best team in the regular season in your conference you get the right to host the conference final, OK that is a useful perk, which can offer some legitimacy to the conference system. But under my system the same idea can still imply. With a single table format the top 8 clubs will qualify for the playoffs, they would be seeded, and the higher seed gets the right to host the second match in the 2 game aggregate fixture, and the semi-final single match fixture (or if you want another 2 match aggregate fixture). With no reward in terms a silverware or international tournament qualification, the idea of being the conference champion is rather pointless.
4. The current playoff system is already close to my system: Right now if you watch the ESPN analyst breakdown the wild-race they do it by looking at all the contenders in the singe table format. Gee, you think that would give somebody an idea. Right now the current system has the top two teams in each conference advancing and being higher seeds in the playoffs. The final four positions are filled by four of the remaining teams with the highest points. So in reality the top eight teams are going to the playoffs anyway, so why are we kidding are selves by saying that the MLS has two conferences, when teams are competing with other teams for the same playoff positions, when they are SUPPOSEDLY in the same conference. If we were to have a single table format, this years exciting playoff race would look exactly the same. It would only improve the system because now we can avoid the unlikely (but still possible) scenario where the top two teams in one conference would be weaker than the other 6 teams from the other conference who made it to the post-season. Yet if this scenario were to happen, the two weaker teams would manage to be the higher seeds come tournament time. This is wrong, and would cause outrage and cries for reform. So let's fix the problem before it happens, and improve on an already solid system.
A single-table format would be beneficial to all in the league. The league front office will not have to worry about making sure certain clubs have more conference game on their schedules, and I am sure that managers and players will be grateful of a well balanced schedule so they can avoid playing 3 games in 8 days, or the awkward 15 day lay off. The only problem with this year's play-off race is the amount of games in hand that one team has. Next year with 16 teams, nobody should have to play in a bye week, and nobody should have to play that grueling 8 league games in 8 days, (still might happen but only on count of SuperLiga, US Open Cup, and Champions League). A single-table format will produce a new dynamic to the league and make the MLS a more fair, and competitive product. MLS the time is now, abandon the old conference system, and let us have ONE United MLS.
Monday, September 28, 2009
Monday League Review
With four weeks left in the MLS season, mathematically 13 of the 15 clubs still have hopes of making the playoffs. Columbus has already mathematically secured themselves a spot to being their Cup defence. But a majority of the clubs a duking it out to reach the play-offs, and hopefully some silverware at the end of the year. This year's playoff race is proving to be the most competitive, and most exciting yet- funny how that happens when the league expands, but the playoffs don't. Here is a review of all the MLS action throughout the week.
Colorado Rapids 1- San Jose Earthquakes 1
OK, stop me when you heard this one. The San Jose Earthquakes outplayed the Rapids, and were subsequently awarded with a goal. San Jose carried that goal into the late stages of the game, until a PK call bailed out the Rapids, as Conor Casey stepped up a secured a draw for the Rapids late in the match. Any guesses? well it is EXACTLY what happened in San Jose five days before this incident. It looked as if Chris Wondolowski's 67th goal would proved to be the difference. Then a hand-ball call undid the Earthquakes, and a late penalty proved to be fatal for the black and blue. Conor Kasey stuck the PK to the left (he went down the center last time) to put his name on the top of the goal scoring list. All and all it was a disappointing two match series versus San Jose, the Rapids were looking for 4-6 points, and wound up with 2 points that they probably did not deserve. Despite, the missed opportunities, the Rapids are in the Wild-Card lead as of now. Still it has to be concerning when you need 2 late PK calls to gain only 2 points against one of the league's worst teams.
Columbus Crew 2- Los Angeles Galaxy 0
Crew Stadium has proven to be a fortress, as the Crew are unbeaten in 24 matches in Central Ohio. Eddie Gaven's 33rd minute goal, followed by Steven Lenhart 59th minute goal secured the home win against the Galaxy, the league's best road team. Will Hesmer only had to make two saves to record the shutout. With the win the Crew official become the first team to secure a playoff spot. Columbus is now the driving seat of the Supporter's Shield race, with a 3 point lead on Houston and a game in hand. The Crew are showing their might by beating the Galaxy with a side filled with lots of second-stringers, while at the same time competing the Champions League. As for the Galaxy losing in Ohio is not the worse thing to happen, an injured David Beckham is. Beckham did not travel with the team due to an ankle injury, his health might determine the Galaxy's playoff run. Los Angeles is still second in the West, and are in a great position to clinch a spot in a week or two.
New England Revolution 2- Seattle Sounders 1
Games in hand are useless if you do not take advantage of them. The Revolution have had the ability to creep up the standing with the extra games they have on the schedule, but so far the Revs have not been playing well. However, the Revolution pulled out a much needed home win against the Sounders on Saturday. MVP candidate Shalrie Joseph scored in the 51st and 90th minutes to overcome Seattle's Freddy Montero's 6th minute opening goal. The Revolution now are in the last playoff spot, but have 5 more games left, which two more than the rest of the teams they competing for playoff spots. The Sounders day's of cruising into the playoffs are long gone. Seattle is sixth overall, and should make the playoffs, but they need to get out of their current slump to cement their spot in the post-season
FC Dallas 3- Real Salt Lake 0
For reasons unknown to man, Real Salt Lake can not beat FC Dallas. No reason why, they just can not. Dallas is 7-0 all-time against the Lakers, and 3-0 beat down the put on Saturday re-enforces the history. Jeff Cunningham put Dallas on the board early in the 5th minute, and David Arturo Rico Ferreira made it 2-0 in the 10th minute. Cunningham continued his bright season again by sealing the win the 87th minute. Dario Sala made 3 saves to get a shutout, and continue the Hoops' dominance over the Lakers. The loss is detrimental for Real as the team now sits 3 points behind New England for the final playoff spot, but the Revs play three more games for Salt Lake. As for Dallas, playoffs are not going to happen this year-you can get out a calculator and an abacus and some computer generated models saying how they still have a shot, but let's face it, your hopes are not good when it requires a Red Bull or Earthquake win.
Chicago Fire 2- Toronto FC 2
Two teams who are disappointed with the results for two different reasons, as it cripples them in two different kinds of races. Thanks to the Fire's terrible defence Dwane DeRosario scored off a breakaway to give the Reds a 1-0 lead in the 6th minute. The Reds were kind enough to return the favor in the form of an own goal by Toronto defender Nick Garcia in the 14th minute. Chad Barrett scored a minute into the second half, after making his way through two Fire defenders to make it 2-1. Hometown hero Brian McBride stuck in 78th minute to salvage a tie for the Fire. The point does not help the Fire's dismal home record, and they now sit five points behind arc-rival Columbus for the Supporter's Shield. Still the Fire will be in the playoffs for yet another year. The draw on the road is not a bad thing for Toronto, their current position in the standing is. The Reds sit 10th overall, 2 points behind the Revolution for the final spot. In a season filled with so much promise, the Toronto faith-full might have to wait another year for a playoff birth.
Chivas USA 1- New York Red Bulls 1
If Chivas misses the playoffs by one or two points, they will look back at this one. It was not the fact that the Goats could only muster one point at home against the league's worst New York. It was the crossbar, and missed penalty that will get to them. Chivas outplayed the Red Bulls, and Sacha Kljestan stuck in the 64th minute to put Chivas up 1-0. Chivas then hit the crossbar shortly after that in a chance to put the game away. Then Juan Pablo Angel stepped up as the team leader by finishing a cross from Sinisa Ubiparipovic in the 84th minute. With the match tied 1-1, it looked like the Red Bulls would steal a point on the road. Then a handball call in the box seemed to rescue Chivas from dropping two necessary points. Kljestan stepped up to take the kick, got the keeper to guess the wrong way, and then completely missed the net wide left. With the heart-breaker Chivas in the second to last playoff position, and has five games left to play to claim a spot. As for New York intern Head Coach Richie Williams, he is looking impressive guiding one of leagues worst teams to a some what respectable finish. Still the Red Bulls are a disgrace.
DC United 1- San Jose Earthquakes 2
DC United is doing a wonderful choking down the stretch. The clubs bread and butter has been winning at their home. But now two defeats against Seattle, and losing to the lowly Earthquakes dispels the rumors of the RFK being a fortress. Jaime Moreno put United ahead in the 26th minute. Then Ramon Sanchez equalized in the 58th minute to cause some concern amongst La Barra Brava. Ryan Johnson, who might be the only highlight of the Earthquakes season scored the game winner in the 73rd minute as the Earthquakes played spoiler for DC. San Jose along with New York are the two sides officially eliminated from the playoffs. United would be the last team out if the season were to end today, as the Screaming Eagles need to gain 2 points on either Chivas, New England, or Seattle. Still hope for the league's premier club, but time is running out in the nation's capitol.
It is the begging of the money season in MLS, and there is still a tight race right now. The Supporter's Shield race is all but won by Columbus, as the Crew need only 2 wins in their last 4 matches to secure the regular season championship. In the play-off race Columbus is the only team who has clinched a spot, but Houston, Chicago, and Los Angeles will clinch soon. The fight for the final four spots is still a brawl. Colorado and Seattle should secure a spot, leaving it up to DC, Chivas, and New England to make up the last two spots. Salt Lake and Toronto have too many teams to jump in so little time to make a push. Whatever the month brings, October will sure bring a the best end to the MLS regular season ever. Man, league expansion was the best idea ever, play-off races would stink if there would only be 10 teams.
Colorado Rapids 1- San Jose Earthquakes 1
OK, stop me when you heard this one. The San Jose Earthquakes outplayed the Rapids, and were subsequently awarded with a goal. San Jose carried that goal into the late stages of the game, until a PK call bailed out the Rapids, as Conor Casey stepped up a secured a draw for the Rapids late in the match. Any guesses? well it is EXACTLY what happened in San Jose five days before this incident. It looked as if Chris Wondolowski's 67th goal would proved to be the difference. Then a hand-ball call undid the Earthquakes, and a late penalty proved to be fatal for the black and blue. Conor Kasey stuck the PK to the left (he went down the center last time) to put his name on the top of the goal scoring list. All and all it was a disappointing two match series versus San Jose, the Rapids were looking for 4-6 points, and wound up with 2 points that they probably did not deserve. Despite, the missed opportunities, the Rapids are in the Wild-Card lead as of now. Still it has to be concerning when you need 2 late PK calls to gain only 2 points against one of the league's worst teams.
Columbus Crew 2- Los Angeles Galaxy 0
Crew Stadium has proven to be a fortress, as the Crew are unbeaten in 24 matches in Central Ohio. Eddie Gaven's 33rd minute goal, followed by Steven Lenhart 59th minute goal secured the home win against the Galaxy, the league's best road team. Will Hesmer only had to make two saves to record the shutout. With the win the Crew official become the first team to secure a playoff spot. Columbus is now the driving seat of the Supporter's Shield race, with a 3 point lead on Houston and a game in hand. The Crew are showing their might by beating the Galaxy with a side filled with lots of second-stringers, while at the same time competing the Champions League. As for the Galaxy losing in Ohio is not the worse thing to happen, an injured David Beckham is. Beckham did not travel with the team due to an ankle injury, his health might determine the Galaxy's playoff run. Los Angeles is still second in the West, and are in a great position to clinch a spot in a week or two.
New England Revolution 2- Seattle Sounders 1
Games in hand are useless if you do not take advantage of them. The Revolution have had the ability to creep up the standing with the extra games they have on the schedule, but so far the Revs have not been playing well. However, the Revolution pulled out a much needed home win against the Sounders on Saturday. MVP candidate Shalrie Joseph scored in the 51st and 90th minutes to overcome Seattle's Freddy Montero's 6th minute opening goal. The Revolution now are in the last playoff spot, but have 5 more games left, which two more than the rest of the teams they competing for playoff spots. The Sounders day's of cruising into the playoffs are long gone. Seattle is sixth overall, and should make the playoffs, but they need to get out of their current slump to cement their spot in the post-season
Kansas City Wizards 0- Colorado Rapids 0
What dying embers the Wizards called playoff hopes, are all but stomped out. The Wizards could only get a point at home against a red-hot Rapids team. Colorado's Preston Burpo made four saves for the shutout, while his counterpart, and legend Kevin Hartman made two. Kansas City needs to win their final four matches, all of them against team that are favorites to beat them. The Rapids are in front of all the wild card contenders, and only two points behind Los Angleles for second in the West. Again, the Rapids are in a nasty habit of claiming only a point against teams they should beat.
FC Dallas 3- Real Salt Lake 0
For reasons unknown to man, Real Salt Lake can not beat FC Dallas. No reason why, they just can not. Dallas is 7-0 all-time against the Lakers, and 3-0 beat down the put on Saturday re-enforces the history. Jeff Cunningham put Dallas on the board early in the 5th minute, and David Arturo Rico Ferreira made it 2-0 in the 10th minute. Cunningham continued his bright season again by sealing the win the 87th minute. Dario Sala made 3 saves to get a shutout, and continue the Hoops' dominance over the Lakers. The loss is detrimental for Real as the team now sits 3 points behind New England for the final playoff spot, but the Revs play three more games for Salt Lake. As for Dallas, playoffs are not going to happen this year-you can get out a calculator and an abacus and some computer generated models saying how they still have a shot, but let's face it, your hopes are not good when it requires a Red Bull or Earthquake win.
Chicago Fire 2- Toronto FC 2
Two teams who are disappointed with the results for two different reasons, as it cripples them in two different kinds of races. Thanks to the Fire's terrible defence Dwane DeRosario scored off a breakaway to give the Reds a 1-0 lead in the 6th minute. The Reds were kind enough to return the favor in the form of an own goal by Toronto defender Nick Garcia in the 14th minute. Chad Barrett scored a minute into the second half, after making his way through two Fire defenders to make it 2-1. Hometown hero Brian McBride stuck in 78th minute to salvage a tie for the Fire. The point does not help the Fire's dismal home record, and they now sit five points behind arc-rival Columbus for the Supporter's Shield. Still the Fire will be in the playoffs for yet another year. The draw on the road is not a bad thing for Toronto, their current position in the standing is. The Reds sit 10th overall, 2 points behind the Revolution for the final spot. In a season filled with so much promise, the Toronto faith-full might have to wait another year for a playoff birth.
Chivas USA 1- New York Red Bulls 1
If Chivas misses the playoffs by one or two points, they will look back at this one. It was not the fact that the Goats could only muster one point at home against the league's worst New York. It was the crossbar, and missed penalty that will get to them. Chivas outplayed the Red Bulls, and Sacha Kljestan stuck in the 64th minute to put Chivas up 1-0. Chivas then hit the crossbar shortly after that in a chance to put the game away. Then Juan Pablo Angel stepped up as the team leader by finishing a cross from Sinisa Ubiparipovic in the 84th minute. With the match tied 1-1, it looked like the Red Bulls would steal a point on the road. Then a handball call in the box seemed to rescue Chivas from dropping two necessary points. Kljestan stepped up to take the kick, got the keeper to guess the wrong way, and then completely missed the net wide left. With the heart-breaker Chivas in the second to last playoff position, and has five games left to play to claim a spot. As for New York intern Head Coach Richie Williams, he is looking impressive guiding one of leagues worst teams to a some what respectable finish. Still the Red Bulls are a disgrace.
DC United 1- San Jose Earthquakes 2
DC United is doing a wonderful choking down the stretch. The clubs bread and butter has been winning at their home. But now two defeats against Seattle, and losing to the lowly Earthquakes dispels the rumors of the RFK being a fortress. Jaime Moreno put United ahead in the 26th minute. Then Ramon Sanchez equalized in the 58th minute to cause some concern amongst La Barra Brava. Ryan Johnson, who might be the only highlight of the Earthquakes season scored the game winner in the 73rd minute as the Earthquakes played spoiler for DC. San Jose along with New York are the two sides officially eliminated from the playoffs. United would be the last team out if the season were to end today, as the Screaming Eagles need to gain 2 points on either Chivas, New England, or Seattle. Still hope for the league's premier club, but time is running out in the nation's capitol.
It is the begging of the money season in MLS, and there is still a tight race right now. The Supporter's Shield race is all but won by Columbus, as the Crew need only 2 wins in their last 4 matches to secure the regular season championship. In the play-off race Columbus is the only team who has clinched a spot, but Houston, Chicago, and Los Angeles will clinch soon. The fight for the final four spots is still a brawl. Colorado and Seattle should secure a spot, leaving it up to DC, Chivas, and New England to make up the last two spots. Salt Lake and Toronto have too many teams to jump in so little time to make a push. Whatever the month brings, October will sure bring a the best end to the MLS regular season ever. Man, league expansion was the best idea ever, play-off races would stink if there would only be 10 teams.
Friday, September 25, 2009
American Teams are Entering the Home Stretch of the CONCACAF Champions League
The group stages of the CONCACAF Champions League is entering the final stages. After 4 rounds of play only one side, Toluca, have mathematically guaranteed themselves a spot in the knock-out round. Several other clubs have put themselves in a spot that anything but a near catastrophe will bar them from reaching the knock-out rounds. According to a poll on ESPN.com, 84% of ESPN Soccernet viewers believe a MLS side will eventually win the CCL. Such optimism can only help the State-side teams as they compete in the continents club championship. Here is a look at the current position of the 4 American teams (As far as I'm concerned Peurto Rico is America, so they make the article). As the American teams look to improve on last year's dismal results on the tournament
Houston Dynamo (2-1-1) 7 pts. 2nd in Group A: Pachuca currently leads the group but the Dynamo leaped into second place following a 5-1 thrashing of Arabe Unido. Eddie Robinson put the Dynamo on the board in the 11th minute. That score stood alone till a 50th minute goal by William Weaver put the Dynamo up 2-0. Arabe Unido pulled one back in the 69th, but then the scoring rally was on. Corey Ashe struck a minute latter to put the lead back up to two. Stuart Holden's 74th and 90th minute goals secured the 5-1 win for Dynamo. Houston is now even with Arabe Unido with 7 points in second spot, but Houston is up on Goal Differential by 3 goals. Houston has an advantage on Arabe Unido since Houston plays group leaders Pachuca at home, while Unido has to travel to Mexico. Right now, Houston controls it's destiny in the Group Stage.
DC United (2-2) 6 pts. 2nd in Group B: Luciano Emilio and Jamie Moreno combined for 3 second half goals to secure a 3-0 win against Marathon at RFK Stadium. Emilo started the second half with a goal in the 46th minute, captain Jaime Moreno 54th scored for United to make it 2-0. Emilio struck again in the 71st to win 3-0. This was a huge win for United, as it will come down to United and Marathon for who will finish in second place. United is in second due to their advantage in goal differential. However, the Screaming Eagles have to travel to group leaders Toluca, while Marathon gets to host the Mexican powerhouse. It may come down to which side can make sure they collect 3 points against lowly San Juan Jabloteh. Either way it will be a tight battle between United and the Honduran Giants.
Columbus Crew (2-2) 6 pts. 2nd in Group C: Coming into the home match against group leader and Mexican powerhouse Cruz Azul the Columbus Crew were holding a 24 home match winning streak. That came to an end in large part to two goals in the first half for a 2-0 Cruz Azul win. This was a big disappointment for the Crew, who were looking for payback after being thrashed in Mexico City by Cruz Azul 5-0. Luckily for America's Hardest Working Team, their main competition for advancing, Saprissa, could only manage a draw at Puerto Rico. This leaves the Crew with a 2 point advantage over Saprissa. Next Tuesday's match is pivotal for the Crew, Columbus host Saprissa and beating them could guarantee them a spot in the knock-out stages. If not then Columbus has to travel to Puerto Rico, while Saprissa gets to host the group winner Cruz Azul. For the Yellow and Black it is simple: Win and you're In.
Puerto Rico Islanders (0-2-2) 2 pts. Puerto Rico NEEDS to win at Cruz Azul, and then win at home against Columbus. The first will NEVER happen in this lifetime, and if Columbus needs points of any kind the Crew are sure to throw all except the kitchen sink into that match. So in basic terms, it's over for the Islanders. Last year's run in the tournament was something remarkable, pretty much being the best representative for the nation. This is not the Islander's year however. Still, Puerto Rico is making an impact on the tournament. After last weeks impressive tie with Cruz Azul, the Islanders again pull out a draw this time with Saspirissa. This proves to be a real thorn in Saprissa's side, since they had a perfect chance to gain ground on the Crew. Josh Hanen scored in the 71st to give Puerto Rico the lead, and the boys of the Island almost pulled of the biggest upset in the tournament. Then a stoppage time goal by Kendall Watson salvaged a point, and the tournament hopes for Saprissa. Islanders are now playing for pride, and should really focus their attention on the USL play-offs. Good run last year Puerto Rico-I still like you more than some of our REAL states.
The final next two matches of the group play should produce some drama in North and Central America's Premier Club Cup Competition. The three MLS teams are all in fair positions to advance to the knock-out stages, as they all control their own destinies. It should be fun to see if the American teams can avenge the league's poor performance from last year. And seriously, I would take Puerto Rico as a state any day of the week.
Houston Dynamo (2-1-1) 7 pts. 2nd in Group A: Pachuca currently leads the group but the Dynamo leaped into second place following a 5-1 thrashing of Arabe Unido. Eddie Robinson put the Dynamo on the board in the 11th minute. That score stood alone till a 50th minute goal by William Weaver put the Dynamo up 2-0. Arabe Unido pulled one back in the 69th, but then the scoring rally was on. Corey Ashe struck a minute latter to put the lead back up to two. Stuart Holden's 74th and 90th minute goals secured the 5-1 win for Dynamo. Houston is now even with Arabe Unido with 7 points in second spot, but Houston is up on Goal Differential by 3 goals. Houston has an advantage on Arabe Unido since Houston plays group leaders Pachuca at home, while Unido has to travel to Mexico. Right now, Houston controls it's destiny in the Group Stage.
DC United (2-2) 6 pts. 2nd in Group B: Luciano Emilio and Jamie Moreno combined for 3 second half goals to secure a 3-0 win against Marathon at RFK Stadium. Emilo started the second half with a goal in the 46th minute, captain Jaime Moreno 54th scored for United to make it 2-0. Emilio struck again in the 71st to win 3-0. This was a huge win for United, as it will come down to United and Marathon for who will finish in second place. United is in second due to their advantage in goal differential. However, the Screaming Eagles have to travel to group leaders Toluca, while Marathon gets to host the Mexican powerhouse. It may come down to which side can make sure they collect 3 points against lowly San Juan Jabloteh. Either way it will be a tight battle between United and the Honduran Giants.
Columbus Crew (2-2) 6 pts. 2nd in Group C: Coming into the home match against group leader and Mexican powerhouse Cruz Azul the Columbus Crew were holding a 24 home match winning streak. That came to an end in large part to two goals in the first half for a 2-0 Cruz Azul win. This was a big disappointment for the Crew, who were looking for payback after being thrashed in Mexico City by Cruz Azul 5-0. Luckily for America's Hardest Working Team, their main competition for advancing, Saprissa, could only manage a draw at Puerto Rico. This leaves the Crew with a 2 point advantage over Saprissa. Next Tuesday's match is pivotal for the Crew, Columbus host Saprissa and beating them could guarantee them a spot in the knock-out stages. If not then Columbus has to travel to Puerto Rico, while Saprissa gets to host the group winner Cruz Azul. For the Yellow and Black it is simple: Win and you're In.
Puerto Rico Islanders (0-2-2) 2 pts. Puerto Rico NEEDS to win at Cruz Azul, and then win at home against Columbus. The first will NEVER happen in this lifetime, and if Columbus needs points of any kind the Crew are sure to throw all except the kitchen sink into that match. So in basic terms, it's over for the Islanders. Last year's run in the tournament was something remarkable, pretty much being the best representative for the nation. This is not the Islander's year however. Still, Puerto Rico is making an impact on the tournament. After last weeks impressive tie with Cruz Azul, the Islanders again pull out a draw this time with Saspirissa. This proves to be a real thorn in Saprissa's side, since they had a perfect chance to gain ground on the Crew. Josh Hanen scored in the 71st to give Puerto Rico the lead, and the boys of the Island almost pulled of the biggest upset in the tournament. Then a stoppage time goal by Kendall Watson salvaged a point, and the tournament hopes for Saprissa. Islanders are now playing for pride, and should really focus their attention on the USL play-offs. Good run last year Puerto Rico-I still like you more than some of our REAL states.
The final next two matches of the group play should produce some drama in North and Central America's Premier Club Cup Competition. The three MLS teams are all in fair positions to advance to the knock-out stages, as they all control their own destinies. It should be fun to see if the American teams can avenge the league's poor performance from last year. And seriously, I would take Puerto Rico as a state any day of the week.
Thursday, September 24, 2009
International Soccer puts sports into a larger perspective
One of the many joys of World Cup Qualifying competitions is that small countries with not that much in terms of political or economic influence can for a brief moment have a moment in the sun. With the way FIFA schedules Qualifying the smaller countries of the world have a chance to play world-class team in their own stadiums. Otherwise, a team like England would never travel to Malta for a soccer game. In most areas this works out to be a great success, has every country can put aside it's political differences to play the world's sport. Even blood enemies Armenia and Turkey played each other twice this year, not bad for two countries that have had 3 armed conflicts since independence. However in other areas of the world security can not be guaranteed, especially in areas with political turmoil. That is when the problem of the safety concerns of fans, athletes, and coaching staff becomes a chief concern.
This is true in no other area than the CONCACAF region (North and Central America as well as the Caribbean Nations). Due to Cold-War Politics and Drug Wars, some of the nations in Central America and the Caribbean are not exactly 'away-fan friendly' environment. While other ares and teams deal with this, such as Iraq who has not played an authentic home match since 2003, playing on the road for all of their matches. Back the the region that the US calls home, and you will see that CONCACAF has had a history of environments that were 'too hostile' to collect a win, or even get back to the team bus alive.
This is currently going on in the region with the upcoming October fixture between the United States and Honduras. Quick CNN style update on the Central American nation of Honduras. The nation is in political turmoil as Honduran President Manuel Zelaya was overthrown via a coup three months ago. Recently, the nation has seen a growth of violence as Zelaya has returned to Honduras after a quick exile, and is currently being housed in the Brazilian Embassy to Honduras. Violence has hit the streets between the side that supports Zelaya, and those who support the new government, formed by the military coup.
This has left FIFA, CONCACAF, and US Soccer in a predicament. While it is Honduras' right to host the match against the US, as the schedule states, there are safety concerns. The US team is not new to traveling to hostile environments as the Yanks have traveled to Costa Rica, Haiti, and Panama, during times when those nations were not the safest places to be. However, as violence starts to near to the cite where the match is scheduled to play, options are being considered.
Right now the plan is to keep the game as scheduled, but here are the alternatives. 1. Play the game at a latter date, wait for things to cool down. 2. Move the game to the United States, and play in a more stable environment, (political violence in American only come from angry Red Necks at town hall meetings). 3. Move the match to a neighboring Central American Nation 4. Play the game in Honduras with no crowd, it's been done before.
While looking at these solutions there are pros and cons to each. Playing the match at a latter date might be wise, wait and see if the political situation will cool down. Maybe, if other results go just right, both teams can qualify with needing to play the game (don't count on that, that is SERIOUS wishful thinking). Playing at a latter date, will not be ideal, but it looks to be a solid plan. Moving the match to the US will seem like an easy choice, but this robs Honduras of a home game, and give the US an extra-home match. This is not only un-fair to Honduras, but all the other teams fighting for a spot in the region. Mexico and Costa Rica will not be happy if the US were to receive 6 home games, and that be the difference in the Final Standing. The other solutions are my least favorite, moving it to another site will kill the atmosphere as a neutral-site qualifier will have no atmosphere to it. And it would be a tragedy to have no fans admitted to the match for security purposes.
Whatever the result, the most important thing is safety. At times like these we really notice how insignificant sports can be compared to what happens in the world. But as the US learned in the attacks of September 11th, sports can heal. They can unite a nation and rally the people behind the flag. I wish the best for those who are in Honduras, and those who might travel to compete there, but I believe it is in Honduras' best interest to host the match, and have people support their team. Honduras is looking in a great position to qualify for it's second World Cup ever, first since 1982. While soccer can not cure the political turmoil, or end violence in an area. For 90 minutes, soccer can unite a nation, as countrymen together cheer, hope, and celebrate as a united nation. A united Honduras.
This is true in no other area than the CONCACAF region (North and Central America as well as the Caribbean Nations). Due to Cold-War Politics and Drug Wars, some of the nations in Central America and the Caribbean are not exactly 'away-fan friendly' environment. While other ares and teams deal with this, such as Iraq who has not played an authentic home match since 2003, playing on the road for all of their matches. Back the the region that the US calls home, and you will see that CONCACAF has had a history of environments that were 'too hostile' to collect a win, or even get back to the team bus alive.
This is currently going on in the region with the upcoming October fixture between the United States and Honduras. Quick CNN style update on the Central American nation of Honduras. The nation is in political turmoil as Honduran President Manuel Zelaya was overthrown via a coup three months ago. Recently, the nation has seen a growth of violence as Zelaya has returned to Honduras after a quick exile, and is currently being housed in the Brazilian Embassy to Honduras. Violence has hit the streets between the side that supports Zelaya, and those who support the new government, formed by the military coup.
This has left FIFA, CONCACAF, and US Soccer in a predicament. While it is Honduras' right to host the match against the US, as the schedule states, there are safety concerns. The US team is not new to traveling to hostile environments as the Yanks have traveled to Costa Rica, Haiti, and Panama, during times when those nations were not the safest places to be. However, as violence starts to near to the cite where the match is scheduled to play, options are being considered.
Right now the plan is to keep the game as scheduled, but here are the alternatives. 1. Play the game at a latter date, wait for things to cool down. 2. Move the game to the United States, and play in a more stable environment, (political violence in American only come from angry Red Necks at town hall meetings). 3. Move the match to a neighboring Central American Nation 4. Play the game in Honduras with no crowd, it's been done before.
While looking at these solutions there are pros and cons to each. Playing the match at a latter date might be wise, wait and see if the political situation will cool down. Maybe, if other results go just right, both teams can qualify with needing to play the game (don't count on that, that is SERIOUS wishful thinking). Playing at a latter date, will not be ideal, but it looks to be a solid plan. Moving the match to the US will seem like an easy choice, but this robs Honduras of a home game, and give the US an extra-home match. This is not only un-fair to Honduras, but all the other teams fighting for a spot in the region. Mexico and Costa Rica will not be happy if the US were to receive 6 home games, and that be the difference in the Final Standing. The other solutions are my least favorite, moving it to another site will kill the atmosphere as a neutral-site qualifier will have no atmosphere to it. And it would be a tragedy to have no fans admitted to the match for security purposes.
Whatever the result, the most important thing is safety. At times like these we really notice how insignificant sports can be compared to what happens in the world. But as the US learned in the attacks of September 11th, sports can heal. They can unite a nation and rally the people behind the flag. I wish the best for those who are in Honduras, and those who might travel to compete there, but I believe it is in Honduras' best interest to host the match, and have people support their team. Honduras is looking in a great position to qualify for it's second World Cup ever, first since 1982. While soccer can not cure the political turmoil, or end violence in an area. For 90 minutes, soccer can unite a nation, as countrymen together cheer, hope, and celebrate as a united nation. A united Honduras.
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
US Hosting the World Cup in 2018 is the smart move for FIFA
As Qualifying continues, and the world gets ready for the World Cup, the most celebrated sporting even besides the Summer Olympics. It leaves me with one questions as the event is ready to kick off in South Africa. When will it be in the United States again? About every week or so a new soccer loving prominent person joins the US bid to host either the 2018 or 2022 tournament. On Wednesday minority Seattle Sounders owner, and 'Price Is Right' host Drew Carey joined the American effort to get the World's Games Premier competition in the US. FIFA will be hosting the tournament for the first time on the African continent, in the multi-racial, nation of the Republic of South Africa. The 2014 edition of the tournament will be hosted in Brazil, and let's face it NOBODY can argue Brazil does not deserve the World Cup.
This leaves the 2018 and 2022 tournament open for a nation to host, as FIFA will chose the host in December 2010. Other countries looking to host one of the tournaments are: England, Australia, Japan, Mexico, Netherlands-Belgium, Russia, Spain-Portugal, Qatar, and the Republic of Korea. At first glance the Americans have a disadvantage since they hosted the tournament the most recently in 1994. However, America's neighbors to the South Mexico hosted the tournament in 1970 and 1986, only 16 years apart, so their is a precedent for having a tournaments in relatively rapids succession. If the US were to host the tournament from 1994 to 2018 at the earliest that would be 24 years.
Forgetting the time elapse from the last time the Cup was help in the US, FIFA must take into account that the Soccer Culture is COMPLETELY different than it was in 1994. Youth Leagues are in every town, more High Schools, and Colleges have Soccer Programs, and with the founding of the MLS in 1996, the United States has a Professional Soccer League. So it could be easily argued that FIFA did not reach the full potential of hosting the tournament of American soil. As this summers World Football Challenge held in the States shows, Americans will come out in droves to watch World-Class Soccer. In each of the 6 matches, top notch clubs sold out MLS size stadiums, to watch what was considered a 'foreign game'.
In reference to that 1994 World Cup held in the United States, no other World Cup made more money are was attended more than that tournament. In all regards the World Cup held in the United States in 1994 was the most successful one in the tournament's history. So it makes pure financial sense for FIFA to host the World Cup in the US for 2018, that tournaments revenue will blow away the revenue from the 1994 tournament. (Especially since FIFA is not liking what the attendance might be for the South African tournament, so dollars may come to help the US' chances of securing a bid in the long run).
As for the United States, soccer has never been more popular in this county, and hosting the tournament will only help that growth. Also take in part the ALL-STAR cast that is trying to secure the bid for the US, including Former Secretary of State Henry Kissinger, TV Host Drew Carey, Cowboys Owner Jerry Jones, Barack Obama, and many others (also that would not make a bad sitcom....the possibilities!) But back to soccer, it makes all around good sense for the to host the 2018 World Cup, especially if it can capitalize on Chicago securing the bid for the 2016 Summer Games.
This leaves the 2018 and 2022 tournament open for a nation to host, as FIFA will chose the host in December 2010. Other countries looking to host one of the tournaments are: England, Australia, Japan, Mexico, Netherlands-Belgium, Russia, Spain-Portugal, Qatar, and the Republic of Korea. At first glance the Americans have a disadvantage since they hosted the tournament the most recently in 1994. However, America's neighbors to the South Mexico hosted the tournament in 1970 and 1986, only 16 years apart, so their is a precedent for having a tournaments in relatively rapids succession. If the US were to host the tournament from 1994 to 2018 at the earliest that would be 24 years.
Forgetting the time elapse from the last time the Cup was help in the US, FIFA must take into account that the Soccer Culture is COMPLETELY different than it was in 1994. Youth Leagues are in every town, more High Schools, and Colleges have Soccer Programs, and with the founding of the MLS in 1996, the United States has a Professional Soccer League. So it could be easily argued that FIFA did not reach the full potential of hosting the tournament of American soil. As this summers World Football Challenge held in the States shows, Americans will come out in droves to watch World-Class Soccer. In each of the 6 matches, top notch clubs sold out MLS size stadiums, to watch what was considered a 'foreign game'.
In reference to that 1994 World Cup held in the United States, no other World Cup made more money are was attended more than that tournament. In all regards the World Cup held in the United States in 1994 was the most successful one in the tournament's history. So it makes pure financial sense for FIFA to host the World Cup in the US for 2018, that tournaments revenue will blow away the revenue from the 1994 tournament. (Especially since FIFA is not liking what the attendance might be for the South African tournament, so dollars may come to help the US' chances of securing a bid in the long run).
As for the United States, soccer has never been more popular in this county, and hosting the tournament will only help that growth. Also take in part the ALL-STAR cast that is trying to secure the bid for the US, including Former Secretary of State Henry Kissinger, TV Host Drew Carey, Cowboys Owner Jerry Jones, Barack Obama, and many others (also that would not make a bad sitcom....the possibilities!) But back to soccer, it makes all around good sense for the to host the 2018 World Cup, especially if it can capitalize on Chicago securing the bid for the 2016 Summer Games.
While it is almost inevitable for the US to host in either 2018 or 2022, it just makes sense for the United States to host the 18' tournament. Why delay the inevitable. There is a passion for World-Class Soccer in the country, the National Team is achieving new heights, the sport is growing. And if those are not good enough reasons then the end all argument can be this-A World Cup in the US will be a GOLD MINE.It is guarantied to make lots of money for both the US and FIFA. While the other countries can argue tradition, and their national love for the game. Also the fact that if the US gets the US bid, that will be THREE World Cups NOT held in Europe...scary. While it is too early to tell, the enthusiasm from some big names is sure to help the US cause. One or two more big-shots, or maybe a good showing of the US in 2010 South Africa, then the rest of the world will be booking plane tickets to the United States. If this is to be true, than no matter who wins the tournament, the US with the economic boost will be the clear winner.
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
USL: The case of the dying league that needs to jump ship
In the year 1986 the Nike shoe comapany started a Soccer league called the United Soccer League of US. It served as the nation's top league for ten years, untill Major League Soccer took that honor. Whlile USL is not connected to the MLS, the USL did serve as a good overseer of the minor leagues of American Proffesional. The USL gave young American players a chance to develop and prove their merit if they could not sign with a team from MLS. While being consider and inferior league, some USL sides even surprised MLS teams in the US Open Cup, even USL's Puerto Rico Islanders and Montreal de Impact, qualified and played well in the CONCACAF Champions League. However, the era of the USL seems to becoming to an end as the teams are thretning a breakaway from the USL. This could leave to the possible exstintion of the USL, or perhaps an overhaul from the current league's format.
News coming from the league latley has suggested that the francises are demanding a re-structuring to make the USL a league with the teams owning the league, and not the investment group NuRock Soccer Holdings, who bought the league from Nike this August. Now the USL is facing a crisis as the fransises from Atlanta, Minnesota, and Miami are threating to create a break-away league, in an attempt to rival the MLS, and crush the USL.
Teams breaking away from the USL is not new, as a matter of fact it has started to become a norm. In 2006 the Toronto Lynx decided they would relegate themselves out of the top two divisons of USL, in responce to MLS building a francise in Toronto. While the fransice never jumped into the MLS, it was the begingin of the trend that markets wanted MLS teams, and not USL teams. This trend continued in 2009 when the Seattle Sounders, one of the more successful USL teams switched to MLS, and abandoned the USL side completly, moving the entire squad over to MLS. Another huge blow for the league will come in 2011 when the Vancuvor Whitecapes, and Portland Timbers will enter the MLS as expansion francises, and leave the USL. While the USL can offer some instances where the quality of play can rival MLS, these cirumstances keep shouting a loud the same thing: FANS AND FRANCISED WANT THE MLS NAME. This is apparent when Toronto, who stuggled by USL standards with attendences, is one of the leage leaders in the attendence in the MLS, always packing the 20,000-seat stadium. Same can be said about the huge success that is the popularity of the MLS version of the Seattle Sounders. People would rather see MLS play than USL play, even though the overall quality if the exact same, people will recognize the MLS brand.
With teams either threatning a breakaway league, or just jumping ship to the MLS, the USL is in troble. From what I see they have this options, and what the USL can gain or lose by using them.
1. Keep Business As Is- While this is the easiest choice, it would also be the worse one the league could possibly make. Right now, USL plans to keep the same 10 teams in the top division for 2010, then have two expansion teams join in 2011 to make up for Vancoover, and Seattle. While on paper this makes sence there is a HUGE problem. Montreal really wants to be in the MLS by 2011, and right now they are coming close, if not 2012 for sure. While they can always promote more teams up, or get more expanison fransice, it is not good that your more successful clubs are leaving the leage. Also if the ideas of a rival league come into play then you have another monster to deal with. This new breakaway league makes the claim that they will 'rival' MLS. But as seen before, Americans except that the MLS is America's Soccer leauge, you cannot rival it. (See the fans growth in Toronto and Seattle), people reconginze the MLS name; and you can not be recognition in this business. The decision to do nothing will kill USL, as the league will collapes in a couple of years, as one by own teams abandon ship.
2. Comprimise with the Fransices that want a 'Team Owned League'-The first thing on USL's docet should be making sure a break-away league does not happen. Bad things happen with break-away leages, (see Champ Car racing). Instead the USL should think about solidifying the set-up of the leage. As of right now the USL is comprised of USL-1, USL-2, and USL Premier Development League. My suggestion, combine the two USL divisions to make a more interesting and unified system. Keep the PDL because, devolping young players is the ONE THING the USL has applied that hits the hammer right on the nail. If the USL re-stuctered to solidify the league, and give the teams the controll stick, the USL could stave off inimate doom.
3. Combine with the MLS- Now this is just the world of Dan Meloy speaching right here, there has been NO I repeat NO talk of this ever happening. I belive that the USL would be the best in the long-term if it in reality ceased to exist. When you can not compete with a larger force, which is apparent with teams leaving the USL as if the league had the plague. Then you should figure out a way to become part of the bigger force. With the pitiful season the New York Red Bulls have played this year, the question of possible relegation has began to pop up. The problem with that idea is you need a lower league. Enter USL. The combined ranks of the USL can offer the MLS a second division, call it MLS-2 for all I care. When you think about the idea could work. With a lower league, players can still develop into proffesionals, while at the same time offering markets that the MLS does not already have. Besides it would make the league more interesting as a promotion-relegation system will offer a new dynamic in American Sports. "If your team is THAT bad you get kicked out of the Major League for a year. THANK-GOD NOW WE DO NOT HAVE TO WATCH ROYAL'S BASEBALL AND LION'S FOOTBALL." While the liklihood that the idea of promotion-relegation breeching other sports is unlikly, it woud offer a unique twist for ths sport of soccer in the country. Also it would give USL teams and fans a chance to earn there way up to MLS, and give fans a chance to recieve the MLS brand name that they want if they are too watch soccer. Let's face it, even in the die-hard American Soccer community, nobody cares about USL (this is my first, and probably last USL article). However if the USL attached itself to the MLS it would gains some significance in the American Soccer Landscape. While this may seem insane, and probably a little to idea, think: One way or another USL teams WILL try to transfer to the MLS, why fight it, embrace it.
Whatever the USL does, the key is to do SOMETHING. Creating a rival-league would not work, in fact it might actually HURT American soccer, so for the good of the sport I hope it does not help. The USL system is dying as people perfer the MLS identity over the USL identity. Which is why teams are jumping ship so quickly, in order to grab hold of a more finacially sound and independent MLS. As for the USL the philosophy I offer them is very Darwinian: CHANGE OR DIE.
News coming from the league latley has suggested that the francises are demanding a re-structuring to make the USL a league with the teams owning the league, and not the investment group NuRock Soccer Holdings, who bought the league from Nike this August. Now the USL is facing a crisis as the fransises from Atlanta, Minnesota, and Miami are threating to create a break-away league, in an attempt to rival the MLS, and crush the USL.
Teams breaking away from the USL is not new, as a matter of fact it has started to become a norm. In 2006 the Toronto Lynx decided they would relegate themselves out of the top two divisons of USL, in responce to MLS building a francise in Toronto. While the fransice never jumped into the MLS, it was the begingin of the trend that markets wanted MLS teams, and not USL teams. This trend continued in 2009 when the Seattle Sounders, one of the more successful USL teams switched to MLS, and abandoned the USL side completly, moving the entire squad over to MLS. Another huge blow for the league will come in 2011 when the Vancuvor Whitecapes, and Portland Timbers will enter the MLS as expansion francises, and leave the USL. While the USL can offer some instances where the quality of play can rival MLS, these cirumstances keep shouting a loud the same thing: FANS AND FRANCISED WANT THE MLS NAME. This is apparent when Toronto, who stuggled by USL standards with attendences, is one of the leage leaders in the attendence in the MLS, always packing the 20,000-seat stadium. Same can be said about the huge success that is the popularity of the MLS version of the Seattle Sounders. People would rather see MLS play than USL play, even though the overall quality if the exact same, people will recognize the MLS brand.
With teams either threatning a breakaway league, or just jumping ship to the MLS, the USL is in troble. From what I see they have this options, and what the USL can gain or lose by using them.
1. Keep Business As Is- While this is the easiest choice, it would also be the worse one the league could possibly make. Right now, USL plans to keep the same 10 teams in the top division for 2010, then have two expansion teams join in 2011 to make up for Vancoover, and Seattle. While on paper this makes sence there is a HUGE problem. Montreal really wants to be in the MLS by 2011, and right now they are coming close, if not 2012 for sure. While they can always promote more teams up, or get more expanison fransice, it is not good that your more successful clubs are leaving the leage. Also if the ideas of a rival league come into play then you have another monster to deal with. This new breakaway league makes the claim that they will 'rival' MLS. But as seen before, Americans except that the MLS is America's Soccer leauge, you cannot rival it. (See the fans growth in Toronto and Seattle), people reconginze the MLS name; and you can not be recognition in this business. The decision to do nothing will kill USL, as the league will collapes in a couple of years, as one by own teams abandon ship.
2. Comprimise with the Fransices that want a 'Team Owned League'-The first thing on USL's docet should be making sure a break-away league does not happen. Bad things happen with break-away leages, (see Champ Car racing). Instead the USL should think about solidifying the set-up of the leage. As of right now the USL is comprised of USL-1, USL-2, and USL Premier Development League. My suggestion, combine the two USL divisions to make a more interesting and unified system. Keep the PDL because, devolping young players is the ONE THING the USL has applied that hits the hammer right on the nail. If the USL re-stuctered to solidify the league, and give the teams the controll stick, the USL could stave off inimate doom.
3. Combine with the MLS- Now this is just the world of Dan Meloy speaching right here, there has been NO I repeat NO talk of this ever happening. I belive that the USL would be the best in the long-term if it in reality ceased to exist. When you can not compete with a larger force, which is apparent with teams leaving the USL as if the league had the plague. Then you should figure out a way to become part of the bigger force. With the pitiful season the New York Red Bulls have played this year, the question of possible relegation has began to pop up. The problem with that idea is you need a lower league. Enter USL. The combined ranks of the USL can offer the MLS a second division, call it MLS-2 for all I care. When you think about the idea could work. With a lower league, players can still develop into proffesionals, while at the same time offering markets that the MLS does not already have. Besides it would make the league more interesting as a promotion-relegation system will offer a new dynamic in American Sports. "If your team is THAT bad you get kicked out of the Major League for a year. THANK-GOD NOW WE DO NOT HAVE TO WATCH ROYAL'S BASEBALL AND LION'S FOOTBALL." While the liklihood that the idea of promotion-relegation breeching other sports is unlikly, it woud offer a unique twist for ths sport of soccer in the country. Also it would give USL teams and fans a chance to earn there way up to MLS, and give fans a chance to recieve the MLS brand name that they want if they are too watch soccer. Let's face it, even in the die-hard American Soccer community, nobody cares about USL (this is my first, and probably last USL article). However if the USL attached itself to the MLS it would gains some significance in the American Soccer Landscape. While this may seem insane, and probably a little to idea, think: One way or another USL teams WILL try to transfer to the MLS, why fight it, embrace it.
Whatever the USL does, the key is to do SOMETHING. Creating a rival-league would not work, in fact it might actually HURT American soccer, so for the good of the sport I hope it does not help. The USL system is dying as people perfer the MLS identity over the USL identity. Which is why teams are jumping ship so quickly, in order to grab hold of a more finacially sound and independent MLS. As for the USL the philosophy I offer them is very Darwinian: CHANGE OR DIE.
Monday, September 21, 2009
Monday League Review
It's Monday yet agian, which means it is time for yet another review of all the MLS action that took place on the weekend. With roughly a month left to go in the regular season, hardly any match is seen as monotinous, as teams are scraping for every point they can manage. Two common trends exist in the league when it comes to playoffs. The first being that attendences seem to go up, the second being if a team falls short of the post-season, the coach is not around much longer. With cash and jobs short in this country, the race to make the play-offs is proven to be a vital task.
New York Red Bulls 1- New England Revolution 1
Coming into Friday's match the Revolution were feeling comfident about themselves. They were about to play the worst team in the league, a team in which they have dominated since 2003, going 11-2-10 in matches against their rivals the Red Bulls. However it was not to be as the Red Bulls keep showing signs of life in the late part of the season (to bad it was not their for the FIRST 20 games). Sainey Nyassi scored in the 13th minute for New England, making the Red Bull faithfull groan 'Here We Go Again.' However the Red Bulls did not give in, and almost got a PK call their way when John Wolyniec was pulled down in the box in the 49th, however the clear penelty was waived off as play continued. Still Wolyniec would not be stopped as he struck in the 69th minute to give the host a 1-1 against thier Atlantic Cup Rivals. The Red Bulls' dismal season is drawing to a close, but the side is playing well in there final matches. As for New England, only getting a point in New York is disapointing. But with a PK that wasn't and the Bulls missing a wide-open net in stoppage time, they should count theirselves lucky. Still, games in hand do not help if you do not capitalize. Revs are currently 2 points out, but have 2 games in hand on DC.
San Jose Earthquakes 1- Colorado Rapids 1
The Rapids got away with murder last Friday in San Jose. Colorado was outpossesed, and outplayed while visiting the Earthquakes. Ryan Johnson but the Earthquakes on the board early with a 8th minute goal. Throughout the match it looked like San Jose would give their fans something to cheer for this season (wins do not come easy in Northern California). The tragedy struck for the Earthquakes. In a flurry in front of the net San Jose's Johnson took down the Rapids' Drew Moor for a PK. Captian Conor Casey buired the PK and the Rapids salvaged a point on the road. With the point that they probably do not deserve by any stretch the Rapids sit 6th overall only 2 points ahead of DC, but Colorado has 5 games left, one more than the teams they are currently racing.
Seatlle Sounders 0- Chivas USA 0
Saterday began with huge Western Conference match up with even larger playoff impications. Coming into the match Chivas only got points from 5 of 12 road games. This time they were travelling to the much intimidating crowds at Qwest Field to plat the Sounder a team who has only lost twice at Seatlle. Coming out with a strict defensive strategy the Goats allowed the Sounders to controll the game and fire off 11 shot to thier 3. But All-Star Keeper Zac Thorton was up to the task recording 5 saves to secure his second steight shutout. Seatlle's Kasey Keller only had to make one save to secure his own shutout in a match the Sounder were in controll of but not win. With the tie the Sounders are the first of the Wild Card teams, and a solid team to make the playoffs. For Chivas, a point at Seatlle will ALWAYS be good news, but only one does not make them feel safe. The Goats are 7th overall, only a point up on DC, but with 6 games on their schedule, Chivas controlls its own destiny.
Kansas City Wizards 3- FC Dallas 2
For a team that in all practicallity is eliminated from the playoffs, the Wizards refuse to be mathmatically eliminated from the post-season. Kansas City has won three streight thanks to Josh Wolff and Jimmy Conrad's late match heroics to save the Wizards hopes. Wolff started the scoring in the 9th to put KC up 1-0. However Dallas' Dax McCarty equalized right before the half. Jeff Cuningham put Dallas up 2-1 thanks to his 54th minute goal. Then with the clock winding down KC's stars showed up. Josh Wolff put his second tally up in the 77th, and then fan-favorite Jimy Conrad gave the Wizards the lead and win with a 80th minute goal. Both teams playoff chances are bleak, with the loss Dallas is 9 points back with 5 to play. While the Wizards could still make the playoffs, but it would require them to continue this amazing win streak, while getting some help. Still, it's always nice to beat the other Lamar Hunt Ownings team, as the two sides have the same owning family.
Houston Dynamo 3- Real Salt Lake 2
A match between two teams, in two different races. The Dynamo helped their Supporter's Shield cause by defeating Real Salt Lake 3-2 at home. In the first 5 minute of the match the Dynamo set the tone as Brian Ching struck 2 minute into the match, and Geoff Cameron found the net 3 minutes earlier to make it 2-0 after 5 minutes. Kyle Beckerman found the net in 27th to pulled the Lakers within one. In the second half Salt Lake evened the score at 2-2 with Yuro Movsisyan in the 60th minute. Houston however, would not be robbed of the three points as Brad Davis scored the winner in the 81st minute to secure the win. With the win the Dynamo pull even with the league leading Crew on points, but trail on goal differential and have only 3 games left in the season. As for Salt Lake, traveling to Houston is never a great place to get points, but nonetheless the team really needed atleast one. Right now Real Salt Lake is two points behind DC, and would be the first team out of the playoffs. Still there is hope for the side that almost made it to the Cup Final last year.
Los Angelas Galaxy 2- Toronto FC 0
After all the controversy that has surronded David Beckham this season, the man can still produce results for the Galaxy. Los Anglelas defeated Toronto FC 2-0 to keep the Galaxy Supporters Shield hopes alive. David Beckham stuck in the 9th minute, scoring his second goal of the season, to put the Galaxy ontop 1-0. Edson Buddle secured the win for LA with a goal in the 83rd minute to give the Galaxy a 2-0 win. Donovan Ricketts only had to make one save to record his sixth shutout of the year. LA is only two points behind the Crew for the best record in the MLS, but they play one less game than the Crew has remaining on there schedule. As for the Reds, their playoff race has much more higher stakes as Toroanto trails United by two points with only 4 games remaing. Still, now is not the time to loose games where you only put one shot on frame. Toranto needs to do better if they are to make the francises first playoff birth.
Chicago Fire 2- Columbus Crew 2
The match of the week was the Midwest Showdown that took place in Chicago. The two top teams in the Eastern Conference battled for supremesy, and possibly the right to host the Conference Final come November. In classic Crew-Fire tradition, the match was a close one, as the teams drew for the fourth consecutive draw between the two clubs, excluding the last years conference final in which the Crew won 2-1 at Columbus. The Fire looked to beat their arc-rivals and pull to a tie ontop the East, espicially after young gun Peter Lowry struck in the 6th and 35th minutes to put the Fire up 2-0 at the half. But, like last years conference final, the Crew would comeback, and none other than last year's league MVP Guillermo Barros Schelotto. Schelotto scored off a header in the 55th minute. Then controversy came in at the Bridgstone Park as Crew Foward Steven Lenhart went down in the box in the 79th minute and was called for the penelty. While the Fire were furious in protest, Schelotto stuck the PK well, and made it a 2-2 match. Despite some late attacks, the Fire could only tie the Crew 2-2, adding on to a disapointing home record for Chicago at home. With the draw, Columbus maintains the league lead of Houston on goal differential, with both sides having 43 points. In the Eastern Conference race, the Crew hold a 3 point lead over the Fire, and also have one more game left than the Fire. With two quality sides in the American heartland, look for the Eastern Conference Final to be contested between these two fierd Midwest rivals.
With roughly 5 weeks left in the regular season, so much is yet to be determined. The Supporter's Shield race is tight with the 4 contenders only split by 3 points. The Crew controll the race with the lead, and the most games left. The Crew should secure a CONCACAF Champions League spot by the regular season's end. In the playoff race, the race is even tighter, with spots 5-8 seperated by only two points. Meanwhile three other teams are only four points back, with New England left with the most games left, with six left to play. With many important matches left in the year, the race for the playoffs should make the end of season stretch exsiting, and full of drama. All of this to cap off a great week of MLS action.
New York Red Bulls 1- New England Revolution 1
Coming into Friday's match the Revolution were feeling comfident about themselves. They were about to play the worst team in the league, a team in which they have dominated since 2003, going 11-2-10 in matches against their rivals the Red Bulls. However it was not to be as the Red Bulls keep showing signs of life in the late part of the season (to bad it was not their for the FIRST 20 games). Sainey Nyassi scored in the 13th minute for New England, making the Red Bull faithfull groan 'Here We Go Again.' However the Red Bulls did not give in, and almost got a PK call their way when John Wolyniec was pulled down in the box in the 49th, however the clear penelty was waived off as play continued. Still Wolyniec would not be stopped as he struck in the 69th minute to give the host a 1-1 against thier Atlantic Cup Rivals. The Red Bulls' dismal season is drawing to a close, but the side is playing well in there final matches. As for New England, only getting a point in New York is disapointing. But with a PK that wasn't and the Bulls missing a wide-open net in stoppage time, they should count theirselves lucky. Still, games in hand do not help if you do not capitalize. Revs are currently 2 points out, but have 2 games in hand on DC.
San Jose Earthquakes 1- Colorado Rapids 1
The Rapids got away with murder last Friday in San Jose. Colorado was outpossesed, and outplayed while visiting the Earthquakes. Ryan Johnson but the Earthquakes on the board early with a 8th minute goal. Throughout the match it looked like San Jose would give their fans something to cheer for this season (wins do not come easy in Northern California). The tragedy struck for the Earthquakes. In a flurry in front of the net San Jose's Johnson took down the Rapids' Drew Moor for a PK. Captian Conor Casey buired the PK and the Rapids salvaged a point on the road. With the point that they probably do not deserve by any stretch the Rapids sit 6th overall only 2 points ahead of DC, but Colorado has 5 games left, one more than the teams they are currently racing.
Seatlle Sounders 0- Chivas USA 0
Saterday began with huge Western Conference match up with even larger playoff impications. Coming into the match Chivas only got points from 5 of 12 road games. This time they were travelling to the much intimidating crowds at Qwest Field to plat the Sounder a team who has only lost twice at Seatlle. Coming out with a strict defensive strategy the Goats allowed the Sounders to controll the game and fire off 11 shot to thier 3. But All-Star Keeper Zac Thorton was up to the task recording 5 saves to secure his second steight shutout. Seatlle's Kasey Keller only had to make one save to secure his own shutout in a match the Sounder were in controll of but not win. With the tie the Sounders are the first of the Wild Card teams, and a solid team to make the playoffs. For Chivas, a point at Seatlle will ALWAYS be good news, but only one does not make them feel safe. The Goats are 7th overall, only a point up on DC, but with 6 games on their schedule, Chivas controlls its own destiny.
Kansas City Wizards 3- FC Dallas 2
For a team that in all practicallity is eliminated from the playoffs, the Wizards refuse to be mathmatically eliminated from the post-season. Kansas City has won three streight thanks to Josh Wolff and Jimmy Conrad's late match heroics to save the Wizards hopes. Wolff started the scoring in the 9th to put KC up 1-0. However Dallas' Dax McCarty equalized right before the half. Jeff Cuningham put Dallas up 2-1 thanks to his 54th minute goal. Then with the clock winding down KC's stars showed up. Josh Wolff put his second tally up in the 77th, and then fan-favorite Jimy Conrad gave the Wizards the lead and win with a 80th minute goal. Both teams playoff chances are bleak, with the loss Dallas is 9 points back with 5 to play. While the Wizards could still make the playoffs, but it would require them to continue this amazing win streak, while getting some help. Still, it's always nice to beat the other Lamar Hunt Ownings team, as the two sides have the same owning family.
Houston Dynamo 3- Real Salt Lake 2
A match between two teams, in two different races. The Dynamo helped their Supporter's Shield cause by defeating Real Salt Lake 3-2 at home. In the first 5 minute of the match the Dynamo set the tone as Brian Ching struck 2 minute into the match, and Geoff Cameron found the net 3 minutes earlier to make it 2-0 after 5 minutes. Kyle Beckerman found the net in 27th to pulled the Lakers within one. In the second half Salt Lake evened the score at 2-2 with Yuro Movsisyan in the 60th minute. Houston however, would not be robbed of the three points as Brad Davis scored the winner in the 81st minute to secure the win. With the win the Dynamo pull even with the league leading Crew on points, but trail on goal differential and have only 3 games left in the season. As for Salt Lake, traveling to Houston is never a great place to get points, but nonetheless the team really needed atleast one. Right now Real Salt Lake is two points behind DC, and would be the first team out of the playoffs. Still there is hope for the side that almost made it to the Cup Final last year.
Los Angelas Galaxy 2- Toronto FC 0
After all the controversy that has surronded David Beckham this season, the man can still produce results for the Galaxy. Los Anglelas defeated Toronto FC 2-0 to keep the Galaxy Supporters Shield hopes alive. David Beckham stuck in the 9th minute, scoring his second goal of the season, to put the Galaxy ontop 1-0. Edson Buddle secured the win for LA with a goal in the 83rd minute to give the Galaxy a 2-0 win. Donovan Ricketts only had to make one save to record his sixth shutout of the year. LA is only two points behind the Crew for the best record in the MLS, but they play one less game than the Crew has remaining on there schedule. As for the Reds, their playoff race has much more higher stakes as Toroanto trails United by two points with only 4 games remaing. Still, now is not the time to loose games where you only put one shot on frame. Toranto needs to do better if they are to make the francises first playoff birth.
Chicago Fire 2- Columbus Crew 2
The match of the week was the Midwest Showdown that took place in Chicago. The two top teams in the Eastern Conference battled for supremesy, and possibly the right to host the Conference Final come November. In classic Crew-Fire tradition, the match was a close one, as the teams drew for the fourth consecutive draw between the two clubs, excluding the last years conference final in which the Crew won 2-1 at Columbus. The Fire looked to beat their arc-rivals and pull to a tie ontop the East, espicially after young gun Peter Lowry struck in the 6th and 35th minutes to put the Fire up 2-0 at the half. But, like last years conference final, the Crew would comeback, and none other than last year's league MVP Guillermo Barros Schelotto. Schelotto scored off a header in the 55th minute. Then controversy came in at the Bridgstone Park as Crew Foward Steven Lenhart went down in the box in the 79th minute and was called for the penelty. While the Fire were furious in protest, Schelotto stuck the PK well, and made it a 2-2 match. Despite some late attacks, the Fire could only tie the Crew 2-2, adding on to a disapointing home record for Chicago at home. With the draw, Columbus maintains the league lead of Houston on goal differential, with both sides having 43 points. In the Eastern Conference race, the Crew hold a 3 point lead over the Fire, and also have one more game left than the Fire. With two quality sides in the American heartland, look for the Eastern Conference Final to be contested between these two fierd Midwest rivals.
With roughly 5 weeks left in the regular season, so much is yet to be determined. The Supporter's Shield race is tight with the 4 contenders only split by 3 points. The Crew controll the race with the lead, and the most games left. The Crew should secure a CONCACAF Champions League spot by the regular season's end. In the playoff race, the race is even tighter, with spots 5-8 seperated by only two points. Meanwhile three other teams are only four points back, with New England left with the most games left, with six left to play. With many important matches left in the year, the race for the playoffs should make the end of season stretch exsiting, and full of drama. All of this to cap off a great week of MLS action.
Friday, September 18, 2009
A Look at the Midway Point in the Concacaf Champions League Group Stages
In the second installment of the CONCACAF Champions' League American clubs are proving far better than they did in the 2008-09 edition. The simplest sign of improvement is the number of teams in the group stages from 3 clubs to 4. (We are counting the Puerto Rico Islanders, since after all Puerto Rico is a Commonwealth of the United States). This time around only the New York Red Bulls fell in the preliminaries, but in all honesty the terms Red Bulls and Champions League should not be put together. Toronto also lost int e preliminaries, but to the Islanders, so that is one American interest beating another. Even the teams in the group stage are fairing better as none of the clubs are totally being run over, even though some are still accused of sending out JV sides. Still the results of teams in the MLS are far better than what they were a year ago. Now a brief look at the 4 American teams in the CONCACAF Champions League.
Houston Dynamo (1-1-1) 4pts, 3rd in Group A: The Dynamo sit in third in the mostly tightly contested group of the tournament. Houston trails Panchuca by two points, and group leaders Arabe Unido by three points. The Dynamo got off to good start winning at home 1-0 against Isidro Metapan off a 68th minute strike by Brian Ching. Houston followed up that effort by traveling to group leaders Arabe Unido. Dynamo held the lead thanks to Kei Kamara in the 69th, but Arabe punched in a 90th equalizer to bake it a draw. A missed opportunity to for Houston to collect 3 points on the road. Houston traveled to Mexican Giants Pachuca, the Dynamo were out shot 19-5 in the match and lost 2-0. The Dynamo sit in third, but have two remaining home games against the two toughest opponents. Houston could realistically be leading this group right now, but still are contenders for advancing.
DC United (1-2) 3pts, 3rd in Group B: In the first round of matches in Group B Marathon and Toluca proved to be the superior clubs. United did not have a pleasant start to the group, as the Screaming Eagles traveled to Honduras to face Marathon. Luciano Emilio's 48th minute goal did tie the match 1-1. But two late goals by Marathon undid United. Then DC hosted Mexican Primera leaders Toluca. Same ole' story for United, who fell down 1-0 early, but Chris Pontis 47th minute goal pulled it even. Then once again two late goals proved to be fatal as DC dropped their second match 3-1. DC traveled to Trinidad to take on Trinidad Champions Jabloteh. A hand-ball in the box by Jablote proved to be the decider as Christian Gomez nailed the PK in the 14th to give United a 1-0 road win. United is 1-2, but the two losses have been close, and they have 2 more home games left. It will be tough to jump Marathon and Toluca, but it is possible.
Columbus Crew (2-1) 6 pts, 2nd in Group C: Currently Columbus is in the best position among American Teams. The Crew control their own destiny with 6 points. The Crew started the campaign with a 2-0 home win against Puerto Rico. Steven Lenhart's 57th minute strike, Robbie Rodgers 78th minute goal finished off the Islanders. The Crew then traveled to Cruz Azul, in a match that turned into a nightmare. Cruz Azul scored in the 3rd and did not look back, for Columbus losing to Cruz Azul on the road is not embarrassing, 5-0 however.......yeah not good. The Crew traveled to the much feared Sasperissa Stadium to play play the Costa Rican club Sasperissa. Eddie Gaven scored in the 5th to give the Crew the much needed road victory. Columbus is now second in the group and two more home games remaining. Look for the Crew to advance to the knock-out stages of the tournament.
Puerto Rico Islanders (0-1-2) 1 pt. 4th in Group C: Puerto Rico was the Cinderella of the tournament last year is struggling this year. The Islanders dropped the opener to the Crew 2-0. Then the Islanders traveled to Sasperissa and lost 3-1,. Puerto Rico showed some sign of life playing to a high scoring affair with Cruz Azul, the Islanders drew 3-3, taking the lead three times but could not hold on to any of them. With only 1 point through 3 games, the Islanders look like they will not be the darlings of this years CONCACAF Champions League.
Halfway through and the group stage is set for a climatic finish. Some teams are starting to pull ahead, but nobodies future is secured. More games are left to play, and hopefully this years Champions League will prove to be better for the American clubs, as they look to prove who is the elite club in all of CONCACAF.
Houston Dynamo (1-1-1) 4pts, 3rd in Group A: The Dynamo sit in third in the mostly tightly contested group of the tournament. Houston trails Panchuca by two points, and group leaders Arabe Unido by three points. The Dynamo got off to good start winning at home 1-0 against Isidro Metapan off a 68th minute strike by Brian Ching. Houston followed up that effort by traveling to group leaders Arabe Unido. Dynamo held the lead thanks to Kei Kamara in the 69th, but Arabe punched in a 90th equalizer to bake it a draw. A missed opportunity to for Houston to collect 3 points on the road. Houston traveled to Mexican Giants Pachuca, the Dynamo were out shot 19-5 in the match and lost 2-0. The Dynamo sit in third, but have two remaining home games against the two toughest opponents. Houston could realistically be leading this group right now, but still are contenders for advancing.
DC United (1-2) 3pts, 3rd in Group B: In the first round of matches in Group B Marathon and Toluca proved to be the superior clubs. United did not have a pleasant start to the group, as the Screaming Eagles traveled to Honduras to face Marathon. Luciano Emilio's 48th minute goal did tie the match 1-1. But two late goals by Marathon undid United. Then DC hosted Mexican Primera leaders Toluca. Same ole' story for United, who fell down 1-0 early, but Chris Pontis 47th minute goal pulled it even. Then once again two late goals proved to be fatal as DC dropped their second match 3-1. DC traveled to Trinidad to take on Trinidad Champions Jabloteh. A hand-ball in the box by Jablote proved to be the decider as Christian Gomez nailed the PK in the 14th to give United a 1-0 road win. United is 1-2, but the two losses have been close, and they have 2 more home games left. It will be tough to jump Marathon and Toluca, but it is possible.
Columbus Crew (2-1) 6 pts, 2nd in Group C: Currently Columbus is in the best position among American Teams. The Crew control their own destiny with 6 points. The Crew started the campaign with a 2-0 home win against Puerto Rico. Steven Lenhart's 57th minute strike, Robbie Rodgers 78th minute goal finished off the Islanders. The Crew then traveled to Cruz Azul, in a match that turned into a nightmare. Cruz Azul scored in the 3rd and did not look back, for Columbus losing to Cruz Azul on the road is not embarrassing, 5-0 however.......yeah not good. The Crew traveled to the much feared Sasperissa Stadium to play play the Costa Rican club Sasperissa. Eddie Gaven scored in the 5th to give the Crew the much needed road victory. Columbus is now second in the group and two more home games remaining. Look for the Crew to advance to the knock-out stages of the tournament.
Puerto Rico Islanders (0-1-2) 1 pt. 4th in Group C: Puerto Rico was the Cinderella of the tournament last year is struggling this year. The Islanders dropped the opener to the Crew 2-0. Then the Islanders traveled to Sasperissa and lost 3-1,. Puerto Rico showed some sign of life playing to a high scoring affair with Cruz Azul, the Islanders drew 3-3, taking the lead three times but could not hold on to any of them. With only 1 point through 3 games, the Islanders look like they will not be the darlings of this years CONCACAF Champions League.
Halfway through and the group stage is set for a climatic finish. Some teams are starting to pull ahead, but nobodies future is secured. More games are left to play, and hopefully this years Champions League will prove to be better for the American clubs, as they look to prove who is the elite club in all of CONCACAF.
Thursday, September 17, 2009
MLS proves to be vital for US Soccer
Time and again every time I turn on an MLS Soccer game in public I instantly get criticised for turning on an MLS game. The Soccer elitist in this country instantly claim that the MLS is no where near the level of top notch leagues of Europe. Well no kidding Captain Obvious! Of course, MLS is not at the level of quality of the EPL, La Liga, or Series A. Still, I feel it is important for American Soccer fans to if not follow at least show some support for the top flight of American Professional Soccer. As MLS's successes will go in hand with the success of US Soccer in general.
Now to address the quality issue it is true that MLS can not match the top leagues of Europe. With the salary cap and support base that cannot rival those of European clubs, MLS teams can not afford the payrolls that are common place on the other side of the Atlantic. It is simple math, the more money the club has, the more talent it can put on the field. With roster restrictions, and a salary cap each team in the MLS can only do so much to put a quality product on the field. However, with the new Designated Player rule, and talk of increasing the salary cap that will eventually change. The more financial backing for MLS teams, the better quality of play will be on the field. So if you are like me, and want to see the MLS succeed, do your part and at least support the league and watch some games, whether it be going to them live, or on TV.
Still, critics argue that the MLS is not helping the US National Team. This argument does have some evidence, considering the US World Cup team of 1998 was full of MLS players, and the Americans went 0-3 in group play, that was when MLS received the tag of being a JV league. Eleven years later, it is not that exact case. During the El Salvador and T&T matches, 5 of the 18 players on the US roster play for MLS clubs, another 5 used to at be stars in the MLS. If you go done further in the US depth chart, you will find that the up and comers on the US National team apply there traits in the MLS. Now I am not saying the US should feel an all-MLS roster for the World Cup-HEAVENS NO. What I am implying is that the MLS is a crucial point for many young Americans, especially the ones who do not go directly to Europe after College, or High School.
I would also like to address how the MLS compared to other teams around the league. Following the results of the SuperLiga tournaments from the past 3 years, it is clear that the MLS proves to be almost equal with the Mexican Premiera. I still would give the Mexican League an edge of their Northern counterpart, given success in the CCL. But, the gap between the two leagues is getting smaller. The real question is how would the MLS fair against, Europe. Again, against the 'Big 5' of England, France, Spain, Germany, and Italy, the MLS would look like a laughing stock. However, If you were to line up the MLS against the Dutch Eredivisie, Portuguese La Liga, or even the Scottish Premier League, in a format where the best of both leagues would play, followed by second, third, fourth, ect. I think that the MLS sides would do well, probably would drop the match against each leagues top team, but from there the quality of these leagues falls off fast. If there is one thing that MLS has over Europe's second tier leagues it is parity. You may disagree with me, and that is fine. I just believe the LA Galaxy can beat Scotland's Hibernian, and if you disagree, give me the name of ONE Hibernian player.
Finally there is a HUGE reason why MLS is key to the success of US Soccer. Exposure-the Men's National Team truly plays meaningful games for only two out of every four years, in qualifying and the World Cup. (Americans could care less about the Gold Cup). Therefore America needs MLS to keep the soccer culture alive in America during the non-World Cup cycle. Every time the World Cup rolls around, the soccer culture in America seems to be bigger, you can thank MLS for that. I know there are many people out there who think the MLS is a joke, and a complete waste of time. But the fact of the matter is simple. The success of the domestic league, flow into success for the development of the National Team and the overall success of the National Team.
Now to address the quality issue it is true that MLS can not match the top leagues of Europe. With the salary cap and support base that cannot rival those of European clubs, MLS teams can not afford the payrolls that are common place on the other side of the Atlantic. It is simple math, the more money the club has, the more talent it can put on the field. With roster restrictions, and a salary cap each team in the MLS can only do so much to put a quality product on the field. However, with the new Designated Player rule, and talk of increasing the salary cap that will eventually change. The more financial backing for MLS teams, the better quality of play will be on the field. So if you are like me, and want to see the MLS succeed, do your part and at least support the league and watch some games, whether it be going to them live, or on TV.
Still, critics argue that the MLS is not helping the US National Team. This argument does have some evidence, considering the US World Cup team of 1998 was full of MLS players, and the Americans went 0-3 in group play, that was when MLS received the tag of being a JV league. Eleven years later, it is not that exact case. During the El Salvador and T&T matches, 5 of the 18 players on the US roster play for MLS clubs, another 5 used to at be stars in the MLS. If you go done further in the US depth chart, you will find that the up and comers on the US National team apply there traits in the MLS. Now I am not saying the US should feel an all-MLS roster for the World Cup-HEAVENS NO. What I am implying is that the MLS is a crucial point for many young Americans, especially the ones who do not go directly to Europe after College, or High School.
I would also like to address how the MLS compared to other teams around the league. Following the results of the SuperLiga tournaments from the past 3 years, it is clear that the MLS proves to be almost equal with the Mexican Premiera. I still would give the Mexican League an edge of their Northern counterpart, given success in the CCL. But, the gap between the two leagues is getting smaller. The real question is how would the MLS fair against, Europe. Again, against the 'Big 5' of England, France, Spain, Germany, and Italy, the MLS would look like a laughing stock. However, If you were to line up the MLS against the Dutch Eredivisie, Portuguese La Liga, or even the Scottish Premier League, in a format where the best of both leagues would play, followed by second, third, fourth, ect. I think that the MLS sides would do well, probably would drop the match against each leagues top team, but from there the quality of these leagues falls off fast. If there is one thing that MLS has over Europe's second tier leagues it is parity. You may disagree with me, and that is fine. I just believe the LA Galaxy can beat Scotland's Hibernian, and if you disagree, give me the name of ONE Hibernian player.
Finally there is a HUGE reason why MLS is key to the success of US Soccer. Exposure-the Men's National Team truly plays meaningful games for only two out of every four years, in qualifying and the World Cup. (Americans could care less about the Gold Cup). Therefore America needs MLS to keep the soccer culture alive in America during the non-World Cup cycle. Every time the World Cup rolls around, the soccer culture in America seems to be bigger, you can thank MLS for that. I know there are many people out there who think the MLS is a joke, and a complete waste of time. But the fact of the matter is simple. The success of the domestic league, flow into success for the development of the National Team and the overall success of the National Team.
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
Round 1 of UEFA Champions League Review
During the UEFA Champions League I will reviewing all the weeks action week by week. I will do a group by group analysis of the tournament, as Europe's best battle it out in the the continents premier club cup competion. All sides competing for the most covented crown in club football throughout the world. And Away We Go. Sorry for the 'Dark Knight' reference :}
Group A: The German Giants Bayren Munich traveled to Isreal to take on the Israli champions Maccabi Haifa. The underdog host help of Bayern for the first half, playing to a scoreless first half. Then the floodgates opened. Daniel van Buyton struck in the 64th, and Thomas Muller tallied in the 85th and 88th to give Bayern a 3-0 away win. Not a good start for the Isralies. In the more intiging match Bordeaux pulled out a 1-1 draw in Italy against Juventus. Vincenzo Iaquinto struke first for Juventus in the 63rd. Still, the Frech side stole a point on the road with Jaroslav Plasil's equalizer in the 75th.
Group B: Bundesliga Champions Wolfsburg got of to good start in the group stage. Grafite scored in the 36th, 41st, and 87th minutes to record a hat trick for the German side. CSKA Moscow did get a consolation goal from Alan Dzagoev in the 77th minute to pull the visitors closer at 2-1. But Wolfsburg and Grafite proved to be too strong. Manchester United traveled to Turkey for their match against Besiktas. The Red Devils struggled to find the scoresheet, posting 16 shots overall, but only 5 on target. It took till the 77th minute when Paul Scholes put Sir Alex Ferguson's club up 1-0. Manchester held on to collect the 3 points, and tie Wolfsburg with 3pts. a piece.
Group C: Filippo Inzaghi pulled through for AC Milan in the club's trip to Marsille. Inzaghi put the Rossenari up 1-0 in the 27th. Gabriel Heinze put things on even turms for the host. However, Inzaghi was not done just yet, as he secured 3 points for his club with a 74th minute strike, as AC Milan won on the road 2-1. It was a high scoring affair in Switzerland, but the star-power of Real Madrid proved to be too much for FC Zurich. Cristiano Ronaldo started the frezy with a 27th minute goal. Raul and Gonzalo Higuain added before the break. Xavier Margairaz's penelty in the 63rd, and Silvan Aegerter struck 2 minutes later for Zurich to make it 3-2. Ronaldo and Guti stuck late to put it out of reach as Madrid won 5-2. With the results the twho high-profile clubs are tied with 3 points a piece.
Group D: In the group that looked as if there would not be any drama, with the top 2 clubs running away towards advacement-it looked liked anything but that. Apoel Nicosia recorded the first points for any Cyprus club in modern UCL history with a scoreless draw. What was even more impressive was that they achieved the feat on the road at Atletico Madrid. The result makes me question the Spanish club's merit. In the other match the Cinderalla of last year's tournament FC Porto ALMOST proved to be spoiler agian. The Portugesse Champions went into the locker rooms 0-0 at Stamford Bridge. Then Nicolas Anelka's put the Blues up 1-0 in the 48th. The match was a shoting gallary as Chelsea outshot Porto 20-19, but Porto but more on target with a 7-6 advantage. Chelsea lead a group that looked at first like a no brainer to pick, but some Day 1 scares have me taking a second look.
Group E: It was not as easy as the Liverpool would have liked it, but Manager Benitez said the result was the important thing. After all they ask not how, but how many. Still it was a tense moment for the Reds as Dirk Kuyt's tally before the half is what separated the host from Hungarian Champions Debreceni. Liverpool controlled the game, but could not find the back of the next. Still, Liverpool should still be happy with the opening round 3 points. Fiorentina looked like they could get a point at Lyon, then a red card in the 45th sunk the hopes of the Italian side. Miralem Pjanic finally broke though for Lyon against the 10-man team for Fiorentina. The group is still wide open following a pair of 1-0 results.
Group F: Russian Champions Rubin Kazan looked sharp on the road against Dynamo Kiev, with Domingez's 25th minute goal. Then the second half happended. Then the Ukrainan super-powers came roaring back late in the match. Atanda Yussef put the game on equal terms in the 71st. Then Gerson Magrao put the host ahead in the 79th. Oleg Gusev iced the match with an insurance goal in the 85th. As the host grabbed 3 points against there fellow Eastern European side. In a match that featured two sides with unlimited budgets to attrack high scoring players, the match ended a 0-0 draw. Inter Milan played to a scoreless draw against Barcelona in Milan. Barca outshot Inter 15-9, but both sides but 3 shots on target. With the results Dynamo Kiev is a surprise on top of the group: They play Barcelona at Camp Nou next.
Group G: Sevilla got off to a flying start against Romanian side Unirea Urziceni. Luis Fabiano struck before the half. Then Renato secured the victory with a 70th minute strike. Sevilla controlled the game as the Blue Lions of Romania never put a shot on frame. A late game strike by Madjid Bougherra saved a point for Rangers as they visited Stuttgart. Pavel Pogrebnyak put the South German team up 1-0 in the 18th minute. The two battled in an evenly fough match. Then Renato 70th minute equalizer guarenteed the Scottish Champions a point on the road. Sevilla holds the early lead, while Stuttgart and Rangers will battle it out over the next 5 rounds.
Group H: It would of been disaster for the Greek champs if they could not collect 3 points at their opener at home. But it took untill the 79th minute for Olympiakos secured the 1-0 over AZ Alkmaar. Vassilis Torosidis put the host ahead of the Dutch Champions in the 79th. Then Olympiakos held on to win in a match they were outshot, and lost the possesion battle. In the other match Belgian Champions Standard Liege almost had a dream start to their Champion's Leuge campain. Eliaquim Mangala and Milan Jovanovic put the host up in the first 5 minutes of the match. Then the mighty Arselnal fought back. Nicklas Bendtner struck before the half to make it 2-1 at the half. The Gunners kept the pressure up in the second 45, Thomas Vermaelen equalized in the 78th, and Eduardo scored 3 minutes later to give Arsenal a 3-2 win. Arsenal is still my pick to win the group, but the second place fight is sure to be a good one.
This was only the first round of the six grueling group matches each team needs to navigate if they wish to become's Europes best. More action is sure to come in the long road to Madrid, where one team will become the Kings of Europe.
Group A: The German Giants Bayren Munich traveled to Isreal to take on the Israli champions Maccabi Haifa. The underdog host help of Bayern for the first half, playing to a scoreless first half. Then the floodgates opened. Daniel van Buyton struck in the 64th, and Thomas Muller tallied in the 85th and 88th to give Bayern a 3-0 away win. Not a good start for the Isralies. In the more intiging match Bordeaux pulled out a 1-1 draw in Italy against Juventus. Vincenzo Iaquinto struke first for Juventus in the 63rd. Still, the Frech side stole a point on the road with Jaroslav Plasil's equalizer in the 75th.
Group B: Bundesliga Champions Wolfsburg got of to good start in the group stage. Grafite scored in the 36th, 41st, and 87th minutes to record a hat trick for the German side. CSKA Moscow did get a consolation goal from Alan Dzagoev in the 77th minute to pull the visitors closer at 2-1. But Wolfsburg and Grafite proved to be too strong. Manchester United traveled to Turkey for their match against Besiktas. The Red Devils struggled to find the scoresheet, posting 16 shots overall, but only 5 on target. It took till the 77th minute when Paul Scholes put Sir Alex Ferguson's club up 1-0. Manchester held on to collect the 3 points, and tie Wolfsburg with 3pts. a piece.
Group C: Filippo Inzaghi pulled through for AC Milan in the club's trip to Marsille. Inzaghi put the Rossenari up 1-0 in the 27th. Gabriel Heinze put things on even turms for the host. However, Inzaghi was not done just yet, as he secured 3 points for his club with a 74th minute strike, as AC Milan won on the road 2-1. It was a high scoring affair in Switzerland, but the star-power of Real Madrid proved to be too much for FC Zurich. Cristiano Ronaldo started the frezy with a 27th minute goal. Raul and Gonzalo Higuain added before the break. Xavier Margairaz's penelty in the 63rd, and Silvan Aegerter struck 2 minutes later for Zurich to make it 3-2. Ronaldo and Guti stuck late to put it out of reach as Madrid won 5-2. With the results the twho high-profile clubs are tied with 3 points a piece.
Group D: In the group that looked as if there would not be any drama, with the top 2 clubs running away towards advacement-it looked liked anything but that. Apoel Nicosia recorded the first points for any Cyprus club in modern UCL history with a scoreless draw. What was even more impressive was that they achieved the feat on the road at Atletico Madrid. The result makes me question the Spanish club's merit. In the other match the Cinderalla of last year's tournament FC Porto ALMOST proved to be spoiler agian. The Portugesse Champions went into the locker rooms 0-0 at Stamford Bridge. Then Nicolas Anelka's put the Blues up 1-0 in the 48th. The match was a shoting gallary as Chelsea outshot Porto 20-19, but Porto but more on target with a 7-6 advantage. Chelsea lead a group that looked at first like a no brainer to pick, but some Day 1 scares have me taking a second look.
Group E: It was not as easy as the Liverpool would have liked it, but Manager Benitez said the result was the important thing. After all they ask not how, but how many. Still it was a tense moment for the Reds as Dirk Kuyt's tally before the half is what separated the host from Hungarian Champions Debreceni. Liverpool controlled the game, but could not find the back of the next. Still, Liverpool should still be happy with the opening round 3 points. Fiorentina looked like they could get a point at Lyon, then a red card in the 45th sunk the hopes of the Italian side. Miralem Pjanic finally broke though for Lyon against the 10-man team for Fiorentina. The group is still wide open following a pair of 1-0 results.
Group F: Russian Champions Rubin Kazan looked sharp on the road against Dynamo Kiev, with Domingez's 25th minute goal. Then the second half happended. Then the Ukrainan super-powers came roaring back late in the match. Atanda Yussef put the game on equal terms in the 71st. Then Gerson Magrao put the host ahead in the 79th. Oleg Gusev iced the match with an insurance goal in the 85th. As the host grabbed 3 points against there fellow Eastern European side. In a match that featured two sides with unlimited budgets to attrack high scoring players, the match ended a 0-0 draw. Inter Milan played to a scoreless draw against Barcelona in Milan. Barca outshot Inter 15-9, but both sides but 3 shots on target. With the results Dynamo Kiev is a surprise on top of the group: They play Barcelona at Camp Nou next.
Group G: Sevilla got off to a flying start against Romanian side Unirea Urziceni. Luis Fabiano struck before the half. Then Renato secured the victory with a 70th minute strike. Sevilla controlled the game as the Blue Lions of Romania never put a shot on frame. A late game strike by Madjid Bougherra saved a point for Rangers as they visited Stuttgart. Pavel Pogrebnyak put the South German team up 1-0 in the 18th minute. The two battled in an evenly fough match. Then Renato 70th minute equalizer guarenteed the Scottish Champions a point on the road. Sevilla holds the early lead, while Stuttgart and Rangers will battle it out over the next 5 rounds.
Group H: It would of been disaster for the Greek champs if they could not collect 3 points at their opener at home. But it took untill the 79th minute for Olympiakos secured the 1-0 over AZ Alkmaar. Vassilis Torosidis put the host ahead of the Dutch Champions in the 79th. Then Olympiakos held on to win in a match they were outshot, and lost the possesion battle. In the other match Belgian Champions Standard Liege almost had a dream start to their Champion's Leuge campain. Eliaquim Mangala and Milan Jovanovic put the host up in the first 5 minutes of the match. Then the mighty Arselnal fought back. Nicklas Bendtner struck before the half to make it 2-1 at the half. The Gunners kept the pressure up in the second 45, Thomas Vermaelen equalized in the 78th, and Eduardo scored 3 minutes later to give Arsenal a 3-2 win. Arsenal is still my pick to win the group, but the second place fight is sure to be a good one.
This was only the first round of the six grueling group matches each team needs to navigate if they wish to become's Europes best. More action is sure to come in the long road to Madrid, where one team will become the Kings of Europe.
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
NCAA Should Consider Switch in the Soccer Schedule
Throughout out America a big step in any young athletes career is the switch for High School to College athletics. However in the world of soccer, playing in college is becoming less and less part of these players careers. The trend now for the top American prospects is to avoid college, and sign immediately to a professional club. MLS is even encouraging teams to sign the young stars by offering them money for college if there pro-careers do not turn out well. There is also a trend that European clubs are signing young Americans, and putting them in their youth academies. With these factors college soccer really struggles to make the national radar. The reason why these circumstances are happening is that NCAA Soccer is not where it needs to be in order to develop the talents that college teams have to offer. With that the NCAA does not exactly help the top prospects advance their game, or give them 'pro-like' experience. For the pros it makes sense for them to skip college soccer-because, college soccer is inefficient in America.
The first correction college soccer needs to fix is the structure of the matches. OK, lets forget about the clock that counts DOWN, playing stoppage-time is a crucial part of the game, where players will and merit are put into question. However instead once the clock his 0:00, (or the 45, 90th minute) the play stops. This really is a disadvantage when I watched a match between my Aquinas Saints, the Siena Heights Saints (did not expect a Saint Cup reference did you?) When Aquinas had a corner-kick with the time running out, a Siena player purposely stepped in front of the ball to kill of the clock, this did not give Aquinas enough time to finish the play. If there was stoppage time, then the ref could just take on an extra minute or two. Or let him be the judge on when the Half or game should end. Speaking of ending games, I have noticed that many conferences throughout the county decide to go into extra-time if the match is tied after regulation. THIS IS WRONG. Part of Soccer is that when you are on the road, or against a difficult opponent the weaker side, or the visitors plays for the tie, collects the point and goes on their marry way. Instead, when it is a draw after 90 minutes, the teams play 2 15-minute extra times, if winner is not determined after that, then it is a draw. But have not the underdogs done through enough trying to hold off a stronger team for 90 minutes, now they need to sweat through overtime!!! Yes, creates more results, and makes it more exciting for the fans. But at what point do you cross trying to please the fans, and selling the integrity of your sport.
Another point of concern for me is the substitution rule, according the rules of college soccer a player can be subbed out once for every half, or extra-time. Therefore, you see coaches sub in the 40th minute, have sub play like a mad man for 5 minutes. Then the player subbed out comes back to start the second half. While it does put an interesting aspect to the college game, it does not do a good job assimilating to the professional game. An even more disturbing rule in the college game is the unlimited sub rule. Coaches can swamp in as many players as there heart contents. This makes the soccer purist cringe, that what is labeled as a developmental stage of a player's career, coaches can change the entire complexion, and format of the match with one quick sub. While I do realize this is only college sports, authenticity is key if American Soccer wants more players coming from the college system. At least in Division I the NCAA should consider switching the rules the having 6 subs a team, and you cannot come back on after you have been subbed off.
The last thought in my mind I know will not come true any time soon (so if you want to stay in reality world, you can just forget the 2 last paragraphs, and THANK YOU for reading.) The season needs to be longer. An August-November Schedule, at least. In truth mid-July to November schedule would be nice. This would make the amount of games played a week a lot more manageable. Make July- mid-August your month of non-conference games. Then from there play each side in your league twice, ONLY ONE GAME A WEEK. The current schedule does not help out teams, who on some weeks have 3 matches in 8 days, (Which then again will prepare them for the horrid part of an MLS schedule.) In college sports development is the key, Soccer is meant to be a one game a week sport (see EPL, La Liga, Bundesliga). The amount of games per-week cuts down on training time. With games more spread out, coaches can focus more on training. I do not think schools will allow teams to begin play in July, even if they did i KNOW the NCAA will not. So that is Dan Meloy's vision of fantasy, back to the real world.
If the NCAA implemented some of these changes two things will accrue. Number One: a better product on the field, and more competitive matches. Also Number Two: A system that will do a better job of producing talent for professional leagues. Now before you send me hate mail on how college sports are supposed to be extra-curricular activities, and not the minor-league's for sports. I will answer with this, the age of a professional soccer player's prime is roughly 26-30, so every year counts, it helps when player play serious soccer at 19-20 than 22-23. Second, the idea of college athletics are mere extra-curricular activities is long gone (Football and Basketball, anyone.) Finally, I only made these recommendations for NCAA Div. I, the tier that has the best chance of producing professional, therefore it makes sense that these rule changes apply to this tier in particular. With these changes I feel the NCAA can do a better job of developing young soccer players, and stop the loss of top-talent going over and starting professional career's early. Otherwise, top-division college soccer might become a thing of the past.
The first correction college soccer needs to fix is the structure of the matches. OK, lets forget about the clock that counts DOWN, playing stoppage-time is a crucial part of the game, where players will and merit are put into question. However instead once the clock his 0:00, (or the 45, 90th minute) the play stops. This really is a disadvantage when I watched a match between my Aquinas Saints, the Siena Heights Saints (did not expect a Saint Cup reference did you?) When Aquinas had a corner-kick with the time running out, a Siena player purposely stepped in front of the ball to kill of the clock, this did not give Aquinas enough time to finish the play. If there was stoppage time, then the ref could just take on an extra minute or two. Or let him be the judge on when the Half or game should end. Speaking of ending games, I have noticed that many conferences throughout the county decide to go into extra-time if the match is tied after regulation. THIS IS WRONG. Part of Soccer is that when you are on the road, or against a difficult opponent the weaker side, or the visitors plays for the tie, collects the point and goes on their marry way. Instead, when it is a draw after 90 minutes, the teams play 2 15-minute extra times, if winner is not determined after that, then it is a draw. But have not the underdogs done through enough trying to hold off a stronger team for 90 minutes, now they need to sweat through overtime!!! Yes, creates more results, and makes it more exciting for the fans. But at what point do you cross trying to please the fans, and selling the integrity of your sport.
Another point of concern for me is the substitution rule, according the rules of college soccer a player can be subbed out once for every half, or extra-time. Therefore, you see coaches sub in the 40th minute, have sub play like a mad man for 5 minutes. Then the player subbed out comes back to start the second half. While it does put an interesting aspect to the college game, it does not do a good job assimilating to the professional game. An even more disturbing rule in the college game is the unlimited sub rule. Coaches can swamp in as many players as there heart contents. This makes the soccer purist cringe, that what is labeled as a developmental stage of a player's career, coaches can change the entire complexion, and format of the match with one quick sub. While I do realize this is only college sports, authenticity is key if American Soccer wants more players coming from the college system. At least in Division I the NCAA should consider switching the rules the having 6 subs a team, and you cannot come back on after you have been subbed off.
The last thought in my mind I know will not come true any time soon (so if you want to stay in reality world, you can just forget the 2 last paragraphs, and THANK YOU for reading.) The season needs to be longer. An August-November Schedule, at least. In truth mid-July to November schedule would be nice. This would make the amount of games played a week a lot more manageable. Make July- mid-August your month of non-conference games. Then from there play each side in your league twice, ONLY ONE GAME A WEEK. The current schedule does not help out teams, who on some weeks have 3 matches in 8 days, (Which then again will prepare them for the horrid part of an MLS schedule.) In college sports development is the key, Soccer is meant to be a one game a week sport (see EPL, La Liga, Bundesliga). The amount of games per-week cuts down on training time. With games more spread out, coaches can focus more on training. I do not think schools will allow teams to begin play in July, even if they did i KNOW the NCAA will not. So that is Dan Meloy's vision of fantasy, back to the real world.
If the NCAA implemented some of these changes two things will accrue. Number One: a better product on the field, and more competitive matches. Also Number Two: A system that will do a better job of producing talent for professional leagues. Now before you send me hate mail on how college sports are supposed to be extra-curricular activities, and not the minor-league's for sports. I will answer with this, the age of a professional soccer player's prime is roughly 26-30, so every year counts, it helps when player play serious soccer at 19-20 than 22-23. Second, the idea of college athletics are mere extra-curricular activities is long gone (Football and Basketball, anyone.) Finally, I only made these recommendations for NCAA Div. I, the tier that has the best chance of producing professional, therefore it makes sense that these rule changes apply to this tier in particular. With these changes I feel the NCAA can do a better job of developing young soccer players, and stop the loss of top-talent going over and starting professional career's early. Otherwise, top-division college soccer might become a thing of the past.
Monday, September 14, 2009
Monday League Review
As the temperatures begin to drop, the season begins to heat-up. As Chivas USA coach Preki stated, "Every game from here on out is like a final." While he might only be referring to his team, for the teams that are in the dogfight for play-off spots, every match counts, every point is vital. Most teams have roughly 4-6 games left on the schedule, and some of them will be epic battles between play-off champions. Both races at the end of the year, the Supporter's Shield, and the Play-off races could be determined by one or two points, or even goal differential. All these dilemmas where part of an interesting week in the MLS.
DC United 1- Kansas City Wizards 0
The week's action started on Wednesday as DC United defeated the Kansas City Wizards 1-0. Luciano Emilio's 39th minute strike proved to be the difference for the Screaming Eagles. The Wizards outshot DC 9-7, but United managed to pull of the win to defend their home turf. With the win, DC improved to 6-0-5, at RFK Stadium, a big reason why they are in the play-off hunt. The 3 points helped DC's security in the play-off coming into the weekend. As for the Wizards, taking a point would have been neccassary if they wanted to go to the post-season
Toranto FC 3-Colorado Rapids 2
In the course of 3 minutes Toronto FC saved their season. A 71st minute goal from O'Brian White, and the 74th minute insurance goal from Nana Attakora-Gyan secured 3 much needed points for the Reds. Toronto outshout the Rapids 9-4, but both sides only put 2 on target (meaning nice job to Toronto FC keeper Stefan Frei for having ZERO impact on the game.) This was cruical win for Toranto beating a fellow contender for a wild-card play-off spot. Toronto is 2 spots out of play-off postition, trailing by 2 points to DC United, Chivas, and the team they just beat Colorado. They play one more game than DC, and the same ammount with the team they are tied with Real Salt Lake. So play-off can still be achieved for the Reds. As for Colordo the loss does not help them break away from the pack. They have 6 games left, more than most, and sit in the second of four wild-card spots. With the extra games in hand, Colorado controlls it's own destiny heading into cruch time.
New York Red Bulls 0- Kansas City Wizards 1
Well, all good things come to an end, including the Red Bulls first winning streak of the year which reached impressive heights.....TWO. Wizards star Striker Josh Wolff stuck in the 10th minute to cap of the Wizards bitter week. For the Red Bulls the loss is rather souer considering that that outshot KC 6-4, and had a 8-2 edge in corner kicks. However, the Wizard's Iron Man Kevin Hartman came up big with 4 saves for the Wizards to secure 3 points on the road. The loss eariler in the week at DC destoyed the Wizards chances for post-season glory. The Wizards need to make up 7 points in 6 games, while jumping 4 teams to make the play-offs. The season is now all about saving inter-coach Peter Vermes job. As for the Red Bulls, another solid effort, and I commend them for going down with some fighting spirit....BUT WHERE WAS THIS 5 MONTHS AGO. For New York, the quicker the season ends the better off we will all be.
DC United 1-Seattle Sounders 2
Hmm... deja vu. Last week the Seattle Sounder travled to the impenatable RFK for the final for the US Open cup, where they deafeated United 2-1 with a late strike. This week Seatlle traveled to DC again, this time they came to spoil United undeafeted home record. Steve Zakuani's early strike put the Sounders out in front early. Rodney Wallace equalized in the 54th, then late match heroics by Fredy Montero in the 84th minute proved to be the difference. If there is any wonder about the future talent of the league, the 3 goals scored in this game were all scored by rookies. Right now the Sounders have top spot amongst the wild card teams with 37 points, and only trail Los Angelas by a point for a top-two spot in the conference. DC is seventh in overall, with 36 points, however they only have 4 more games left-this could prove to be United's downfall. It may seem awkward since both of these side have had solid seasons this year, but neither one can say they are comfetable in play-off postition.
Real Salt Lake 1-Chicago Fire 1
A game that was a real missed oppertuinity for the Fire to steal 3 points on the road, especially in a week when the two teams you are chacing are playing each other. Chris Rolfe scored in the 44th minute, as Chicago took the lead into the locker rooms. Then a brilliant strike by Jamison Olave in the 72nd equalized for Real. Salt Lake outshot Chicago 11-7, but the two teams could not break the tie, as they split the points in Utah. Now is not the time to split the points at home for Real Salt Lake. The Lakers would be the first team out of the play-off picture if the season were to end today. They trail 3 clubs by 2 points, and have less remaining games than 2 of the sides that they are chaseing. With 5 games left it is do or die in Salt Lake. For the Fire it is a real shame they could not collect 3 points, and get back into the Supporter's Shield race. Still, no team should every complian about getting a draw on the road. With 39 points, and five games left, Chicago is one of the privilaged teams who can say that they are secured in play-off postiton, as they boast a 3 point lead on DC for second in the East, and the Fire have one more game left on the schedule than United.
Los Angles Galaxy 3- FC Dallas 6
A great game for those who complain there is no scoring in soccer. Dallas posted a 4 goal second half to break the 2-all tie. 3 of Dallas' second half goals came within the span of 5 minutes. The Hoops grabbed the early lead in the 8th minute with Dave Van den Bergh, then Jeff Cunnignham notched another goal in the 25th. An own goal by Dallas a minute latter, and AJ Delagarza's goal made it 2-2 at the break. Then the flood started. Goals in the 71st, 82nd, 83rd, and 86th minute put Dallas up 6-2, ON THE ROAD. Edson Buddle notched 90th minute goal, but the fact remainded the Galaxy got thumped by lowly Dallas 6-3 at home. Dallas has the slightest of possiblities for play-offs, but odds are will not be in the post season. With this game being one of too few bright spots for the year. With key players leaving the club, next year will be a test for Dallas. As for the LA, the Galaxy are in a great postition for play-offs, they are two points behind Houston for first in the West, and they have a game in hand. Still, Seatlle is chacing them down, only a point back, so LA can not let up. What is most concerining for the Galaxy is the fact they got destroyed by a weaker club in there own stadium. It's reality check time in Southern Cal.
Chivas USA 2- New England Revolution 0
Games in hand are useless if you don't capitalize on them. This match up had an interesting appeal as it pitted the two play-off contenders with the fewest amount of games played so far. Both teams had only played 22 games coming into Sunday's match (a real schedueling problem MLS needs to fix, having an even number of teams next year should make it easier.) Maicon Dos Santos' 10th minute goal put the Goats out in front, and Sacha Kljestan's extra-time PK sealed the win for the Los Angelas side. Chivas outshot New England 11-2, and Zach Thornton did not have to make a save to record league leading 9th shutout of the season. With the win Chivas is now occupies the last play-off spot, and with 7 games left on their schedule Coach Preki's side looks to be in prime position, to make a late-season push. New England trails the three teams all tied for spots 6-8 by 3 points, but like Chivas have 7 games left to play. What could keep the Revolution out of the post-season is the injuries that have been plaguing Steve Nicol's team all year. Whether of not they make the play-offs or not, give credit to Steve Nicol for keeping this side together-that man deserves a pay raise.
Columbus 2- Houston 1
How fitting the the final game to conclude the week's MLS action pitted the leagues two best teams in a Supporter's Shield showdown. With the rest of the teams fighting a play-off spot, these two met in Columbus to see who would get the inside track on claiming the leagues best record (a feat which recieves the greatest rewards compared to most American sports) The winner of the Supporters' Shield qualifies for the Champion's League, and the money that goes with it. The match itself was a thriller, as Frankie Hejduk gave the Crew a lead in 34th minute. The host looked confident of victory till Cameron Weaver left the crowd silent with a 81st minute strike to pull the Dynamo even at 1-1. The game between the two conference leaders looked like it would head into a draw, till the Dynamo commited a foul inside the box in the 90th minute. Eddie Gaven stepped up and nailed the PK to give the Crew a 2-1 victory, in a match that could very well decide the Supporter's Shield. Columbus now has a 2 point lead on Houston with 2 games in hand on the Dynamo. They lead the Fire by 3, and Galaxy by four, having a game on both of them. As long as the Crew play decent Soccer, the Supporter's Sheild, and CONCACAF Champions League will be theirs.
With about a month left in the season, the play-off race keeps getting tighter and tighter after every week. Houston, Columbus, Los Anglelas, and Chicgo, should be in for sure. Seattle is almost sure to get into the post-season. From there Colorodo, DC, Chivas, Toronto, New England, and RSL will battle it out for the last 3 spots. The final weeks of the MLS regular season will provide some drama that will be a great appitiser before the play-offs.
Friday, September 11, 2009
CONCACAF Qualifying winds down.
After 8 rounds of Qualifying to determine who will represent North and Central America, as well as the Caribbean, drama is still to be found with 2 rounds remaining. While it is clear as day who the top 4 nations will be, the race for who will avoid the dreaded fourth place finish is still on. According to the rules in CONCACAF Qualifying the top 3 nations will advance to the World Cup, while the fourth place team will play the fifth place team from South America (CONMEBOL). Since this format has been used, the fifth place team from South American has beaten the fourth place team from their Northern Counter-part. It is this incentive to avoid fifth that makes the race for the top 3 so thrilling. With so much pressure to make it to South Africa 2010, every result will matter in the final two round. Here is review of the current situation team by team.
1. United States (5-2-1) 16 points: Well, it was not pretty, but the US is in first. The Yanks have struggled on the road with a dismal 1-2-1 away record, the win over Trinidad being the only time the US has collected 3 points on the road. However, what is more troubling has been the inconsistent play the US has shown. With the exception of a 2-0 over Mexico, and a 3-0 over T&T, the US did not look like the Giants of CONCACAF that they really are. Still the US needs only one point from there final two matches. They could pull that off at Honduras, but that will not be easy. If they lose to Honduras they are sure to at least get a draw at home against Costa Rica, since the Americans have not lost at home since September of 2001. But a final round match against Costa Rica should not be taken lightly! Still the US is sure to go through.
2. Mexico (5-3) 15 points: Before qualifying began, if somebody told me that Mexico would be in second at this stage I would not be surprised. After 3 matches that same statement was make at me, I might of called that person nuts. Mexico was 1-3, and sacked there coach Sven Goeren-Erikson, and all was not well in Azteca. Since then the Mexicans have wielded off 4 straight wins, including a come from behind home win against eternal rival United States. The bigger surprise is that Chicago Fire star Blonco, and his return to the National Team. Blanco was considered retired to International Football, but he has returned and led this young Mexican team to second in the region. A win against Costa Rica in the fortress that is Azteca will send the Mexicans to South Africa, if not then Mexico can still beat up on Trinidad and they should be in the top three.
3. Honduras (4-3-1) 13 points: A respectable week for Honduras could have been a magical one for the Ticos. On Saturday, Honduras thrashed Trinidad and Tobago 4-1 at home, and with that win Honduras was first in the standings, edging out the Americans on goal differential. Then playing at the much feared Azteca Honduras was holding there own against Mexico, till in the 74th minute a call for a Mexico PK Honduras looked like they could recover a point on the road. Then Cuauhtemoc Blonco buried the PK, and Mexico went on to win 1-0. A win at home against the US should see Honduras through, but the situation gets complicated if they tie, or lose at home. Honduras travels at El Salvador, a match where they should hope to get 3 points, but it will not be an easy task. El Salvador plays for pride, and will not bend to anybody. Even if they do beat El Salvador, they still will be scoreboard watching and hope the US will beat Costa Rica, and Mexico slips up in one of there last two matches. Despite them being safe right now, I'm picking Honduras to be the odd man out, and finish fourth. Sorry Honduras, good effort, but you are not done yet.
4. Costa Rica (4-4) 12 points: A week ago Costa Rica leading the region, and were in control of there destiny- things were looking good. Ahh, how week can change the world. On Saturday Costa Rica hosted Mexico, and had a chase to cement there claim to the top 3 by beating Mexico, and putting the Mexican on the ropes. This could have been done, since nobody in the region has had a great time playing on the road. Then, Mexico had a good day on the road. El Tri destroyed the host 3-0 and make Costa Rica look silly. While a loss at home is a real spirit breaker in qualifying, there is no shame losing to a red-hot Mexican team. Costa Rica could recover by traveling to El Salvador to beat up on there neighbor (a team already mathematically eliminated), and put them back on track. Rudy Corrales' late minute strike ended that hope, as El Salvador upset Costa Rica 1-0 to finish a horrifying week for Costa Rica. Fourth is not were you want to be at the end of the campaign. Costa Rica need to beat T&T at home, then hope that the US has already qualified so they can perhaps catch a US 'B' team. If not then Costa Rica could be in trouble, especially if they are playing a desperate American team in Washington DC. I have Costa Rica just edging out Honduras, as the US probably will not field an all-star side against Costa Rica if they collect a point, so Costa Rica should collect 4 points, where I believe Honduras will take only 2.
5. El Salvador (2-4-2) 8 points. Still could slide into fourth place, but it is not looking good for El Salvador. El Salvador has played with some intensity this week, giving the American all they could handle in Utah before falling to the Yanks 2-1, and really sinking there chances. But, El Salvador would not lie down, and pulled the shocker of the week when they hosted Costa Rica. Late match heroics keep the hope alive for El Salvador (and it is always nice to ruin the hopes of rival teams). Still, El Salvador needs to win or tie at Mexico (there is a big problem) and even if they manage to do that, WHICH THEY WILL NOT. They still need to beat Honduras at home. If those two amazing feats are accomplished, and other results go El Salvador's way, then they will advance....to the fourth place spot, and the dreaded play-off-CONGRATS
6. Trinidad & Tobago (1-5-2) 5 points. I do not know what is more pathetic, Trinidad's play this year, or the attendance against the US. Serious organization issues here. Better Luck for 2014 T&T. Still good effort against the Americans, but good Lord, get some folks in the stands.
The race for the top 3 spots in CONCACAF will be something fierce. It will be a fight to a finish, and more importantly, it will be fun to watch. The road to South Africa is winding down, with every turn providing a different twist to the plot that is World Cup Qualifying.
1. United States (5-2-1) 16 points: Well, it was not pretty, but the US is in first. The Yanks have struggled on the road with a dismal 1-2-1 away record, the win over Trinidad being the only time the US has collected 3 points on the road. However, what is more troubling has been the inconsistent play the US has shown. With the exception of a 2-0 over Mexico, and a 3-0 over T&T, the US did not look like the Giants of CONCACAF that they really are. Still the US needs only one point from there final two matches. They could pull that off at Honduras, but that will not be easy. If they lose to Honduras they are sure to at least get a draw at home against Costa Rica, since the Americans have not lost at home since September of 2001. But a final round match against Costa Rica should not be taken lightly! Still the US is sure to go through.
2. Mexico (5-3) 15 points: Before qualifying began, if somebody told me that Mexico would be in second at this stage I would not be surprised. After 3 matches that same statement was make at me, I might of called that person nuts. Mexico was 1-3, and sacked there coach Sven Goeren-Erikson, and all was not well in Azteca. Since then the Mexicans have wielded off 4 straight wins, including a come from behind home win against eternal rival United States. The bigger surprise is that Chicago Fire star Blonco, and his return to the National Team. Blanco was considered retired to International Football, but he has returned and led this young Mexican team to second in the region. A win against Costa Rica in the fortress that is Azteca will send the Mexicans to South Africa, if not then Mexico can still beat up on Trinidad and they should be in the top three.
3. Honduras (4-3-1) 13 points: A respectable week for Honduras could have been a magical one for the Ticos. On Saturday, Honduras thrashed Trinidad and Tobago 4-1 at home, and with that win Honduras was first in the standings, edging out the Americans on goal differential. Then playing at the much feared Azteca Honduras was holding there own against Mexico, till in the 74th minute a call for a Mexico PK Honduras looked like they could recover a point on the road. Then Cuauhtemoc Blonco buried the PK, and Mexico went on to win 1-0. A win at home against the US should see Honduras through, but the situation gets complicated if they tie, or lose at home. Honduras travels at El Salvador, a match where they should hope to get 3 points, but it will not be an easy task. El Salvador plays for pride, and will not bend to anybody. Even if they do beat El Salvador, they still will be scoreboard watching and hope the US will beat Costa Rica, and Mexico slips up in one of there last two matches. Despite them being safe right now, I'm picking Honduras to be the odd man out, and finish fourth. Sorry Honduras, good effort, but you are not done yet.
4. Costa Rica (4-4) 12 points: A week ago Costa Rica leading the region, and were in control of there destiny- things were looking good. Ahh, how week can change the world. On Saturday Costa Rica hosted Mexico, and had a chase to cement there claim to the top 3 by beating Mexico, and putting the Mexican on the ropes. This could have been done, since nobody in the region has had a great time playing on the road. Then, Mexico had a good day on the road. El Tri destroyed the host 3-0 and make Costa Rica look silly. While a loss at home is a real spirit breaker in qualifying, there is no shame losing to a red-hot Mexican team. Costa Rica could recover by traveling to El Salvador to beat up on there neighbor (a team already mathematically eliminated), and put them back on track. Rudy Corrales' late minute strike ended that hope, as El Salvador upset Costa Rica 1-0 to finish a horrifying week for Costa Rica. Fourth is not were you want to be at the end of the campaign. Costa Rica need to beat T&T at home, then hope that the US has already qualified so they can perhaps catch a US 'B' team. If not then Costa Rica could be in trouble, especially if they are playing a desperate American team in Washington DC. I have Costa Rica just edging out Honduras, as the US probably will not field an all-star side against Costa Rica if they collect a point, so Costa Rica should collect 4 points, where I believe Honduras will take only 2.
5. El Salvador (2-4-2) 8 points. Still could slide into fourth place, but it is not looking good for El Salvador. El Salvador has played with some intensity this week, giving the American all they could handle in Utah before falling to the Yanks 2-1, and really sinking there chances. But, El Salvador would not lie down, and pulled the shocker of the week when they hosted Costa Rica. Late match heroics keep the hope alive for El Salvador (and it is always nice to ruin the hopes of rival teams). Still, El Salvador needs to win or tie at Mexico (there is a big problem) and even if they manage to do that, WHICH THEY WILL NOT. They still need to beat Honduras at home. If those two amazing feats are accomplished, and other results go El Salvador's way, then they will advance....to the fourth place spot, and the dreaded play-off-CONGRATS
6. Trinidad & Tobago (1-5-2) 5 points. I do not know what is more pathetic, Trinidad's play this year, or the attendance against the US. Serious organization issues here. Better Luck for 2014 T&T. Still good effort against the Americans, but good Lord, get some folks in the stands.
The race for the top 3 spots in CONCACAF will be something fierce. It will be a fight to a finish, and more importantly, it will be fun to watch. The road to South Africa is winding down, with every turn providing a different twist to the plot that is World Cup Qualifying.
Thursday, September 10, 2009
Final Frames for European Qualification
Throughout the soccer following world you are going to be hard pressed to find somebody who does not agree with the following statement: The continent of Europe boast the best soccer on the planet. Most people will agree with you on this, as the continent has most of the World Cup winning nations (taking 9 cups overall). South America has also claimed 9 cups, but only spread between 3 nations. Also Europe's Champions League is considered the best club cup competition in the world. With that being said World Cup Qualification in Europe always gives us plenty of stories to follow, as every year a team who was perceived to make it to the World Cup finals fall short in the qualification process. With the best teams playing in high stakes matches, the road to determining the 14 nations who will represent Europe in the 32 nation tournament is always interesting. Here is a group-by-group analysis of the 9 groups in UEFA World Cup Qualification.
Group 1: This group is one of the more open groups in the Association, Denmark holds the lead with 18 points, Sweden is in second with 15 points. Powerhouse Portugal (who is led by super-star Cristiano Ronaldo) and Hungry are trailing with 13 points. Each of the top four have two games left. Denmark and Sweden play in a match where the winner could very well take the group, Portugal and Hungry play in an elimination game on the same day. In the final round both Sweden and Portugal have easy games to finish the qualifying campaign as they play Albania, and Malta respectively. With an easy stretch a head for these two sides, look for the Swedes to barely win the group, and Portugal lives to fight another day finishing in second.
Group 2: No real superpowers in this group, right now Switzerland has the lead with 17 points, and play Luxembourg and they are at home against Israel the Swiss should collect 6 points to guarantee a spot in the World Cup. Greece and Latvia both have 14 points and play each other next in a crucial match, after that they finish with two easy matches with Greece playing Luxembourg and Latvia playing Moldova. Whoever can win between the two, and take care a business should secure the second play spot. Israel has an outside shot at second, but needs Greece and Latvia to slip up to advance.
Group 3: With 19 points Slovakia needs a draw in one of there final two matches to qualify as the group winner. Slovenia is in second with 14 points tied with Northern Ireland, but the Irish have only one game left where Slovenia has two, as they play Slovakia, then will collect 3 points against pathetic San Marino. Northern Ireland finishes with the Czech Republic in a match where the loser will be eliminated from contention, (which is a huge blow for the Czechs). Before that match the Czechs will play Poland in another elimination style match, as the Poles need to win there last 2, and have things go there way to finish second. With Slovakia about guaranteed the group, the Slovenians should wrap-up second as they play San Marino, a team who has a -43 goal differential. Sorry Poland, better luck in 2014, but it is not happening for you guys this year.
Group 4: Germany and Russia have locked up the top two spots, with the other nations being mathematically eliminated. The Germans hold a one point lead, but the two nations will play in what will be the group championship at Russia. Germany beat Russia 2-1 at Germany, the difference between the two teams is that Germany has tied only one match, and Russia has lost only one match (to Germany). Still, winning the group is vital, because nobody wants to play in home-away play-off series for the second place finishers.
Group 5: Well what is there to say with a record of 8-0, Spain has secured the group with 24 points. The Spaniards have outscored there opponents 21-2 in qualifying and look like contenders for the Cup. Bosnia-Herzegovina has 16 points in second, a win against lowly Estonia will see them through as second place finishers. Only Turkey can catch them, but the Turks need to beat Belgium and Armenia (Turkey vs. Armenia?...I'm sure the crowd will be well behaved) to put them at 18 points, even then Bosnia just needs to beat Estonia and they will have 19 points, and progress to the play-off round.
Group 6: Same story, different group and nation. England have gone 8-0 in there matches with a 31-5 goal ratio. With the English securing the group the focus is on second where Croatia has the spot for now with 17 points. However, Ukraine has 15 points and 2 matches left, compared to Croatia's one. The catch is that extra game Ukraine has is against England, so much will rest on how England plays. If Fabio Capello puts his 'A' team out with qualification assured. If so then Ukraine catches a break, if not then it will come down to the last day. Where both teams play easy matches. My guess is that Capello has too much pride to surrender a perfect record, will play to beat Ukraine, and Croatia will advance with a win over Kazakhstan, to secure second.
Group 7: With 19 points Serbia just need to win one of there last two matches to get into the World Cup, and with Romania and Lithuania left one their schedule Serbia is sure to advance. That leaves the focus on second place Only Austria can catch France, but the French can get into the play-off with a win against the Faroe Islands (automatic), or tie Austria. If Austria can beat France they still need to win there match against Lithuania, and hope for a French slip up against the Faroe Islands. Look for Serbia to win the group, and France to come in second.
Group 8: Italy and Ireland are the top dogs in the group, and the two play each other next. Defending World Champion Italy has a 4 point lead over the Irish, and an Italian win a draw will secure the group for them. If Ireland wins, Italy can still win the group by beating Cyprus (which you can take it to the bank that they will). Ireland can still just beat Montenegro and secure second position, no matter what happens during the Italy match.
Group 9: I always believe the teams in group 9 have a disadvantage since they play less games, the second place team is likely to be the side excluded from the play-off because they have the fewest points among the second. Scotland sits in second in the group, but can not advance into the play-offs. The Netherlands have one the group in a landslide, boasting a perfect record.
While some groups are all but over, there still are some great races left before the intense play-off battle for European Qualification to the World Cup. Rushing through the teams mind is the idea of stepping up in big games, and do not take matches against the little guys for granted. Whatever the results may be, the final rounds of UEFA Qualifying will certainly live up to the standard this Association has set with its rich history.
Group 1: This group is one of the more open groups in the Association, Denmark holds the lead with 18 points, Sweden is in second with 15 points. Powerhouse Portugal (who is led by super-star Cristiano Ronaldo) and Hungry are trailing with 13 points. Each of the top four have two games left. Denmark and Sweden play in a match where the winner could very well take the group, Portugal and Hungry play in an elimination game on the same day. In the final round both Sweden and Portugal have easy games to finish the qualifying campaign as they play Albania, and Malta respectively. With an easy stretch a head for these two sides, look for the Swedes to barely win the group, and Portugal lives to fight another day finishing in second.
Group 2: No real superpowers in this group, right now Switzerland has the lead with 17 points, and play Luxembourg and they are at home against Israel the Swiss should collect 6 points to guarantee a spot in the World Cup. Greece and Latvia both have 14 points and play each other next in a crucial match, after that they finish with two easy matches with Greece playing Luxembourg and Latvia playing Moldova. Whoever can win between the two, and take care a business should secure the second play spot. Israel has an outside shot at second, but needs Greece and Latvia to slip up to advance.
Group 3: With 19 points Slovakia needs a draw in one of there final two matches to qualify as the group winner. Slovenia is in second with 14 points tied with Northern Ireland, but the Irish have only one game left where Slovenia has two, as they play Slovakia, then will collect 3 points against pathetic San Marino. Northern Ireland finishes with the Czech Republic in a match where the loser will be eliminated from contention, (which is a huge blow for the Czechs). Before that match the Czechs will play Poland in another elimination style match, as the Poles need to win there last 2, and have things go there way to finish second. With Slovakia about guaranteed the group, the Slovenians should wrap-up second as they play San Marino, a team who has a -43 goal differential. Sorry Poland, better luck in 2014, but it is not happening for you guys this year.
Group 4: Germany and Russia have locked up the top two spots, with the other nations being mathematically eliminated. The Germans hold a one point lead, but the two nations will play in what will be the group championship at Russia. Germany beat Russia 2-1 at Germany, the difference between the two teams is that Germany has tied only one match, and Russia has lost only one match (to Germany). Still, winning the group is vital, because nobody wants to play in home-away play-off series for the second place finishers.
Group 5: Well what is there to say with a record of 8-0, Spain has secured the group with 24 points. The Spaniards have outscored there opponents 21-2 in qualifying and look like contenders for the Cup. Bosnia-Herzegovina has 16 points in second, a win against lowly Estonia will see them through as second place finishers. Only Turkey can catch them, but the Turks need to beat Belgium and Armenia (Turkey vs. Armenia?...I'm sure the crowd will be well behaved) to put them at 18 points, even then Bosnia just needs to beat Estonia and they will have 19 points, and progress to the play-off round.
Group 6: Same story, different group and nation. England have gone 8-0 in there matches with a 31-5 goal ratio. With the English securing the group the focus is on second where Croatia has the spot for now with 17 points. However, Ukraine has 15 points and 2 matches left, compared to Croatia's one. The catch is that extra game Ukraine has is against England, so much will rest on how England plays. If Fabio Capello puts his 'A' team out with qualification assured. If so then Ukraine catches a break, if not then it will come down to the last day. Where both teams play easy matches. My guess is that Capello has too much pride to surrender a perfect record, will play to beat Ukraine, and Croatia will advance with a win over Kazakhstan, to secure second.
Group 7: With 19 points Serbia just need to win one of there last two matches to get into the World Cup, and with Romania and Lithuania left one their schedule Serbia is sure to advance. That leaves the focus on second place Only Austria can catch France, but the French can get into the play-off with a win against the Faroe Islands (automatic), or tie Austria. If Austria can beat France they still need to win there match against Lithuania, and hope for a French slip up against the Faroe Islands. Look for Serbia to win the group, and France to come in second.
Group 8: Italy and Ireland are the top dogs in the group, and the two play each other next. Defending World Champion Italy has a 4 point lead over the Irish, and an Italian win a draw will secure the group for them. If Ireland wins, Italy can still win the group by beating Cyprus (which you can take it to the bank that they will). Ireland can still just beat Montenegro and secure second position, no matter what happens during the Italy match.
Group 9: I always believe the teams in group 9 have a disadvantage since they play less games, the second place team is likely to be the side excluded from the play-off because they have the fewest points among the second. Scotland sits in second in the group, but can not advance into the play-offs. The Netherlands have one the group in a landslide, boasting a perfect record.
While some groups are all but over, there still are some great races left before the intense play-off battle for European Qualification to the World Cup. Rushing through the teams mind is the idea of stepping up in big games, and do not take matches against the little guys for granted. Whatever the results may be, the final rounds of UEFA Qualifying will certainly live up to the standard this Association has set with its rich history.
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