South Africa Special: The World Cup Word On The Street - The Locals Have Their Say

Goal.com gets the lowdown from the locals...

With the world writing about South Africa before the 2010 World Cup, Goal.com it was time to find out what people really live in the host country have to say.

We spoke with three young, talented and passionate people who live in the Rainbow Nation.

Zarina Bahdur is based on Jozi (Johannesburg), where he works as a marketing consultant. She has been involved in sports marketing in the past four years. The follower of football also is involved with the Soweto-based sports social development non-profit Foundation with Umhlaba Vision boyzzz DC United Khumalo....[source]

Argentina Return To Monumental Stadium For Peru World Cup Qualifier

Los Albicelestes will return to their home for a crucial clash...

The executive committee of the Argentine Football Association (AFA) confirmed that the selection of Argentina will play for River Plate's Monumental Stadium for the party next month's World Cup 2010 in Peru.

Argentina back to headquarters after suffering a devastating 3-1 loss to Brazil, when he went to Giant Arroyito stadium in Rosario, at the request of Diego Maradona and his team. It was Argentina's first loss at home since beating Colombia 5-0 in 16 years...[source]

Top Nigerian Premier League Star Chibuzor Okonkwo Set To Join Heartland

Bayelsa United are set to lose the league's best player to one of their closest rivals...

Chibuzor Okonkwo, who was named Player of the Nigeria Premier League last season, has left Champions Heartland Bayelsa United, who finished runner-up in the past.

Sources close to Okonkwo, who has been called for qualifying for the World Cup in Nigeria at home to Mozambique next month, told Goal.com that the versatile midfielder has already put pen to paper at Heartland...[source]

Crisis times for goal-shy Portugal

Portugal's suffering in recent years compared with the achievements of the superpowers of Europe. His figure of four appearances in the FIFA World Cup ™ and five in the European Championship, UEFA, seems insignificant when compared with that of experienced qualifiers such as Germany, Italy and England.

However, in the last decade, the Portuguese have become increasingly virtual in major finals and has been surprised by the grand stage in more than one occasion, runner-up in the UEFA EURO 2004, fourth in Germany 2006 and achieve quarter-finals in Austria and Switzerland 2008.

Given that impressive run, Portugal were widely tipped to qualify for South Africa 2010 at a gallop. But despite that provides the current FIFA World Player Cristiano Ronaldo undoubtedly talented team of Carlos Queiroz are in serious danger of missing the finals for the first time since France 1998...[source]

Goalscorers grab the headlines

In many ways, football is a simple game: the team that scores the most goals wins. However, in each game, statistics are interesting sub-plots that help make the beautiful game the fascinating spectacle it is. So every week, FIFA.com takes a look at the numbers behind the results.

Review this week is dominated by a handful of exceptional gifts as a scorer, the singing of Alejandro Dominguez, although hat-trick heroes Grafite and Antonio Di Natale penalty and King Nestor Ortigoza veteran venerable Old Trafford, Ryan Giggs...[source]

Trio sparkle down finishing straight

After having secured qualification for the 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa ™, an impoverished Brazil maintained first place in the classification of South America last Wednesday night. Paraguay sealed his ticket to the final in style, while Ecuador took the fourth and increased their hopes.

The two days also included some outstanding individual performances, as a number of players justified their tag as rising stars. FIFA.com takes a closer look at some of the players that are turning heads in South America...[source]

World Cup Debate: Who Are The Top.10 Contenders For South Africa 2010?

Gregory Sica provides readers with a list of who he thinks are the top.10 World Cup contenders...

1. Brazil
The Selecao are favorites to win their sixth World Cup in South Africa. With his heroic victory over Chile last week, extended their winning streak to 11 games and their unbeaten run to 19. Brazil are very motivated, especially after crossing the last arch rivals Argentina, qualified for another World Cup. Dunga has assembled a formidable unit that will be disappointed with anything less than another World Cup title.

2. Spain
The European champions, crushed Estonia 3-0 to claim their eighth straight win in World Cup qualifier. Spain are strong in all departments and that has scored 21 goals and have conceded only two clearly explains his depth. However, very unexpected defeat to the U.S. in the semifinals of the Confederations Cup may not mean as good as they think. Spain may finally join the elite of world football?

3. Germany
When it comes to the World Cup, regardless of form, the Germans are always candidates. The fact that they are flying high in the qualifying round will probably mean that at its best in South Africa. Joachim Löw has assembled a side mixed with youth and experience that has an attractive style of football. Germany is the aim of improving the performance of their riders in Euro 2008, when South Africa.

4. England
For the first time in many years, England can be considered serious World Cup. Fabio Capello has been able to take full advantage of a talented group of players and have claimed eight wins successive World Cup qualifying, including a stunning 5-1 victory over Croatia at Wembley. The three lions are as confident as ever, but how they go against tough teams like Brazil, Germany and Spain?

5. Italy
The world champions will be looking to equal Brazil's five World Cup victories next year, and no one should bet against them. The Italians have shown time and again that, even if they have an impressive team, when it comes to the World Cup to exceed their expectations with the very efficient tactical football. The Azzurri may have fought in the Confederations Cup, but if they improve their game that might be candidates.

6. Argentina
Argentina has much work to do if we want to qualify for the World Cup, much less win. The Argentineans have suffered several serious setbacks under Diego Maradona and will have to claim positive results against Peru and Uruguay to qualify. If they do this, and Diego Maradona, finds a way to get the most out of Lionel Messi and the rest of his players, Argentina could again be the party that once used to be.

7. Ivory Coast
If there were ever a time for an African nation to win the World Cup, it is now. Cameroon, Tunisia and Ghana, all seem very strong, but it seems that Ivory Coast are the African nation most likely to make a stand in South Africa. That will be familiar with conditions in the country means that will enhance their chances of reaching crucial stages of the tournament. Didier Drogba and company. we know that nothing less than a semifinal appearance of the Elephants will be considered a failure.

8. Netherlands
With eight consecutive wins in the Netherlands cruised into the World Cup and it seems that it takes to be among the favorites. The Orange is a young team with much potential, the weakest parts however, they have faced during the World Cup qualifiers and you can just crumble when against the traditional heavyweights. Can the Dutch to meet expectations and show that they can beat the best?

9. Chile
Marcelo Bielsa has transformed the Chilean football for good, and the red could be a revelation in the World Cup. During the South American qualifiers that have been in exceptional form, and have alerted the world with their attractive brand of attacking football. However, Chile has to find consistency or could be removed from the World Cup when they face a team that knows how to take advantage of their vulnerable defense.

10. France
The French were not at their best during the World Cup qualifying and could miss the World Cup altogether. There are lots of tension in the French countryside, and this is reflected in poor results. The winner of the 1998 World Cup knows that if they qualify for the World Cup will have to pick up his game tremendously, or they may face early elimination. Les Bleus have much potential, and if they find the ideal combination, players like Franck Ribery could turn a lot of heads.

Argentina Will Qualify For The World Cup, Missing Out Would Be Horrible - Lionel Messi

'La Pulga' finally broke his silence about Argentina's deep struggles...


Barcelona superstar Lionel Messi believes that despite his poor run of results, Argentina qualify for World Cup 2010 in South Africa.

"We in the World Cup, otherwise it would be horrible," said Messi, who spoke to France Football, after nearly a week of silence.

Messi was questioned after disappointing performances in the second qualifying round for Argentina against Brazil and Paraguay last week. The Rosario-born player said the tactical system in Barcelona is not comparable to that of Argentina, which is much lower.

Argentina Will Qualify For The World Cup, Missing Out Would Be Horrible - Lionel Messi

"La Pulga" finally broke his silence about Argentina's deep struggles...

Barcelona superstar Lionel Messi believes that despite his poor run of results, Argentina qualify for World Cup 2010 in South Africa.

"We in the World Cup, otherwise it would be horrible," said Messi, who spoke to France Football, after nearly a week of silence.

Messi was questioned after disappointing performances in the second qualifying round for Argentina against Brazil and Paraguay last week. The Rosario-born player said the tactical system in Barcelona is not comparable to that of Argentina, which is much lower...[source]

Homeless World Cup Wrap Day 8: Ukraine Crowned Champions

Goal.com's Fiona Crawford reviews the final day of action from the Homeless World Cup in Milan.

Ukraine were crowned champions of the Homeless World Cup after beating Portugal 5-4 in a goal for goal thrilling final.

This was an action filled culmination of eight days of football played between 500 and marginalized homeless players from 48 nations with the slogan that a ball can change the world.

Although both teams was incredibly fast, passionate and talented, and the ending could have gone either way, was not the main objective of the event, not even his highlight for this writer....[source]

Japan: Keita Suzuki Eyeing National Team Return

The all-action midfielder has his sights on the World Cup...

Keita Suzuki is looking to the battle on the way back to Japan's national team after an absence of 18 months.

The midfielder was one of the stars of the 2007 Asian Cup, but has fallen from grace after battling tonsillitis and injuries last season.

"Last year I felt like quitting," he told The Japan Times.

"It was tough for me mentally. I could not eat anything, and as a result I lost over 10 kg. During that time I was called to play for the national team and that just sent me into a spiral.

"I was playing too. I had been playing for a long time without a break, so looking back I realize that it was good to get some free time. But while I could not even look at a football ...[source]

Diego Maradona To Finally Provide Real Madrid's Gonzalo Higuain With Argentina Call-Up - Report

The striker will finally be provided with an opportunity with Los Albicelestes...

Real Madrid striker Gonzalo Higuain has not been taken into account so far, but Diego Maradona finally presented with a call to the Argentina national team.

Maradona, the Argentina coach, traveled to Europe to talk to several players who may or may not take into account crucial month for the next World Cup qualifier with Peru and Uruguay.

Argentina has struggled in all aspects of his game during qualifying, and Maradona believes his attack is in need of a player who is able to find the back of the net on a regular basis...[source]

Chelsea vs Porto Preview

Chelsea will delve into their youth academy in order to bolster a Champions League squad ravaged by injury and suspensions.

In-form striker Didier Drogba and full-back Jose Bosingwa are banned while midfielders Deco, Joe Cole and Yuri Zhirkov, plus defenders Paulo Ferreira and Alex, are all missing through injury.

It means coach Carlo Ancelotti will add defenders Sam Hutchinson and Jeffrey Bruma to his squad along with Italy Under-19 international striker Fabio Borini.

"We don't have Didier Drogba and Jose Bosingwa and also Joe Cole, Paulo Ferreira and Deco cannot play tomorrow," he said...[source]

Ancelotti confident of Blues challenge Chelsea manager Carlo Ancelotti is confident the Blues are ready to achieve victory in the Champions League th

Chelsea manager Carlo Ancelotti is confident the Blues are ready to achieve victory in the Champions League this season.

Chelsea have endured several near misses in Europe's elite competition in recent seasons and came closest to lifting the title in 2008 when they lost to Manchester United in a penalty shoot-out.

Ancelotti took charge at Stamford Bridge in the summer, with many claiming his success in Europe with AC Milan was the key factor behind owner Roman Abramovich's decision to appoint the Italian.

Last season's beaten semi-finalists start the new campaign at home to Porto on Tuesday and Ancelotti is eager to enjoy success in the competition....[source]

Croatia coach Bilic plays down England comments

Croatia coach Slaven Bilic has played down remarks he made last week about the England side lacking "Englishness" and "aggression".




Bilic, preparation for the crucial qualifying Wednesday night's World Cup against Fabio Capello at Wembley Stadium, says he was misquoted.

"I praised and praised Fabio Capello England team," he said after his team trained on the lawn, famous Tuesday night. "Of course we have not lost Englishness.

"What I said was that it is more organized, more solid, which can control the game almost completely and are now playing a different game. They have won their first seven playoffs - it's like having three match points in tennis. Yet about six months to go before the World Cup and I think you better and better."...[source]

England boss Capello baffled by the booing Lescott

On the eve of a game in which England can secure their participation in the World Cup, Fabio Capello has asked why the public to Wembley again hostile to boo as Joleon Lescott at the weekend.

England 2-1 easy victory over Slovenia was marked by a strange episode where the new Manchester City signing Lescott was loudly jeered by some sections of the crowd, who replaced Matthew Upson to West Ham after 64 minutes.

Confirmation of Ashley Cole as the man-of-the-match was met with a response that does not appreciate, echoing the treatment, the left side received following a mistake against Kazakhstan in October 2008. Moreover, in recent years, both David Bentley and Frank Lampard, have been targeted by English fans.

With England winning seven heats in succession to leave Capello requiring three points against Croatia to book their flights to South Africa, it was thought that the hostility of the people was subsiding. But the Italian has puzzled to hear the reaction of a minority satisfied on Saturday...[source]

South America: Chile and Paraguay on the brink

Chile and Paraguay can secure two more South American places at the 2010 World Cup alongside five-times champions Brazil if they win their qualifiers on Wednesday.

Chile, which reached the finals in 1998, are far from Brazil, which depleted due to suspensions and injuries after qualifying with a 3-1 win over Argentina on Saturday.

Paraguay, looking to reach his fourth successive World are at home to Argentina, who have lost their way by virtue of Diego Maradona, collecting six points from a possible 15.

Kaka, one of four players suspended Brazil, was quoted in the press Argentina saying that three times world champion Argentina should qualify.

"A World Cup without Argentina is not good," he said. "The World Cup must have all the best teams in the world.

If Chile and Paraguay win, will go to the finals in South Africa, leaving five other teams including Argentina's struggle for a more automatic and the playoffs in the 10-group of South American nations.

Even a draw to Chile and Paraguay would be sufficient if Colombia and Ecuador, both seven points behind them, not win on Wednesday.

Paraguay defender Julio Cesar Caceres, who plays for Boca Juniors of Argentina, is back from suspension for the match at the Defensores del Chaco stadium.

"Against teams that have players like Argentina must be prepared to pressure and not let them think," Paraguay's Argentine coach Gerardo Martino said at a news conference Monday...[source]

Player Ratings: Argentina 1-3 Brazil

Luis Fabiano and Kaka starred as the Selecao brushed aside Maradona's men...

ARGENTINA

Andujar: 6.0 – The Catania goalkeeper could do little about Brazil's three goals. He rescued his side from what easily could have been a demolishing.

Zanetti: 5.5 – Was put under so much pressure that the veteran could hardly move forward on one of his trademark runs down the right flank. Looked ordinary at times, especially when it came to clearing danger from the pumped Brazilians.

Dominguez: 5.0 – An evening to forget for the debutant. Struggled to meet high balls and was very clumsy with his feet. Couldn't deal with the speed of the likes of Luis Fabiano, Robinho and Kaka...[source]

World Cup Debate: How Diego Maradona Has Turned Argentina From World Cup Contenders Into World Cup No-Hopers

Argentina are in serious risk of not qualifying for the 2010 World Cup following their 3-1 defeat to bitter rivals Brazil. Carlo Garganese explains everything that Diego is doing wrong…

We have seen many times in the past in the great players make great coaches, and now seems to have happened again with the best player of them all - Diego Maradona.

As a Neapolitan, which saddens this writer to say this because Maradona is a God in Campania, but the 48 year old is not made for sitting on the bench. With the players at its disposal, Argentina should already be qualified for South Africa. However, with only three matches in their group to go CONMEBOL - two of which are difficult trips to Paraguay and Uruguay - and only two points separate the fourth-placed albicelestes Colombia and Ecuador in the fifth and sixth, there is a very real possibility losing in their first finals in 40 years.

There is no doubt that the main reason why Argentina are in such a situation is due to Maradona...[source]

Victory hauls Croats four points behind England

Croatia 1 - 0 Belarus

Ivan Ratikic was Croatia's hero as Slaven Bilic's team secured the win they required to set themselves up for Wednesday's clash with England at Wembley. Ratikic scored midway through the first half as Croatia moved to four points adrift of leaders England in Group Six, having played one more match than Fabio Capello's team.

If England beat Croatia next week then they cannot be caught and will qualify automatically for next summer's World Cup finals in South Africa, but Bilic's team, for now, still have distant hopes of claiming top spot. Perhaps more importantly in the long run, today's victory for Croatia reopens the three-point gap between themselves and Ukraine, which for a few hours had been wiped out by Ukraine's 5-0 win against Andorra.

Croatia have also played one more match than Ukraine..[source]

Bulgaria cruise as Berbatov ends drought

Bulgaria 4 - 1 Montenegro

Unbeaten Bulgaria came from behind to defeat Montenegro 4-1 in a World Cup Group Eight qualifier and keep alive their hopes of reaching next year's finals in South Africa.

A first international goal by veteran Radostin Kishishev and second-half strikes from Dimitar Telkiyski, Dimitar Berbatov and Valeri Domovchiyski cancelled out Stevan Jovetic's early goal for Montenegro.

Striker Jovetic fired the visitors in front with a thunderous 20-metre shot after nine minutes. Kishishev, 35, who made his Bulgaria debut in 1996, equalised when he gave keeper Vukasin Poleksic no chance with a powerful drive from the edge of the penalty area in first-half injury time...[source]

Draw leaves Portugal struggling to qualify

Denmark 1 - 1 Portugal

Portugal kept alive their World Cup qualifying hopes on Saturday when they held Group One leaders Denmark to a 1-1 draw thanks to Liedson's 86th-minute equaliser on his international debut.

The hosts opened the scoring three minutes before halftime when Arsenal striker Nicklas Bendtner controlled a high ball from Michael Silberbauer in the middle of the penalty area and blasted it into the top right corner.

Portugal had many chances to score but Denmark goalkeeper Stephan Andersen made one save after another until Brazilian-born striker Liedson finally headed the ball in from inside the penalty area to equalise with four minutes to go...[source]

Hungary 1 - 2 Sweden ReportMatch Ibrahimovic nets dramatic injury-time winner

Hungary 1 - 2 Sweden

Zlatan Ibrahimovic's goal four minutes into stoppage time gave Sweden a dramatic 2-1 victory over Hungary in their World Cup Group One qualifier on Saturday.

The visitors took the lead after eight minutes through defender Olof Mellberg, who grabbed his fifth international goal when he headed in a corner from Kim Kallstrom.

Hungary came close early in the second half as Balazs Dzsudzsak shot over from 10 metres. Sweden went even closer when Kallstrom curled the ball on to the crossbar with keeper Gabor Babos beaten...[source]

Hampden win sets up Holland encounter

Scotland 2 - 0 Macedonia

George Burley survived to fight another day as Scotland manager as goals from Scott Brown and James McFadden secured a crucial victory against Macedonia to keep their World Cup play-off hopes alive.

• Burley: Everyone played their part

Pressure had been mounting on Burley since last month's 4-0 thrashing in Norway left the nation's chances of qualifying for next summer's finals in South Africa in the balance and he knew defeat at Hampden today could have spelled the end of his tenure.

But the Scots rose to the challenge after a nervous first half had ended goalless when Brown claimed his first international goal after the restart and McFadden ensured the victory late on ahead of another crunch match on Wednesday night against Holland...[source]

Pavlyuchenko grabs spot-kick brace

Russia 3 - 0 Liechtenstein

Roman Pavlyuchenko scored two penalties in the space of six minutes as Russia made light work of Liechtenstein in a World Cup qualifier in rain-soaked St Petersburg.

Centre-back Vasili Berezutsky opened the scoring in the Group Four match before Tottenham striker Pavlyuchenko settled the contest with two goals before the break.

Coach Guus Hiddink was missing Andrei Arshavin, Yuri Zhirkov and Denis Kolodin through injury and started Everton newcomer Denis Bilyaletdinov at left-back, but the changes did not prevent Russia from recording a simple victory...[source]

Silva, Villa grab doubles as Spain stay clear

Spain 5 - 0 Belgium

Spain continued their seemingly unstoppable march towards next year's World Cup finals after thrashing Belgium in La Coruna to record their seventh win out of seven in Group Five.

Although Spain are still not yet assured of a place in South Africa after second-placed Bosnia-Herzegovina beat Armenia 2-0 earlier in the evening, it seems only a matter of time before the European champions seal their spot as they are six points clear with three games to go.

Valencia duo David Villa and David Silva both netted braces in the win, while Gerard Pique added the other. Villa also missed a first-half penalty when the game was goaless...[source]

Dunga celebrates qualification while Maradona moans

Brazil coach Dunga believed intelligence and discipline were crucial as his team beat Argentina to book a place in the World Cup Finals.

Argentina 1 - 3 Brazil : Fabiano fires Brazil throungh

The Selecao became the first South American team to make it to South Africa 2010 after a crucial win at the Estadio Gigante de Arroyito.

Dunga, who captained Brazil to the 1994 World Cup title, commented: "We knew it was going to be tough, but I told my players that if we finished the game with all the players on the field, we were going to win it.

"We tried to play tough, firm, but trying to not get carded. We always tried to play. Brazil were very focused on the game all the time, trying to play with speed in the right moments. We were surprised by Argentina pressuring us in the opening minutes. The field was great, it helped us gain speed in our play."...[source]

Brazil ensure qualification, Argentina in distress

Argentina 1 - 3 Brazil

Brazil became the first South American nation to make it to the World Cup finals as they defeated old enemies Argentina 3-1 in the South American - League Group in Rosario.•

Dunga delight, Maradona misery

A brace by Luis Fabiano after a Luisao header opened the scoring helped the five-time world champions book their tickets to travel for South Africa next year.It confirmed Brazil's qualification but leaves Argentina in fourth just two points ahead of the play-off places...[source]

Messi fires Brazil warning

MONTEVIDEO (AFP) - With the World Cup winning coaches in both dugouts, some of the best players in the world and South Africa 2010 show at the hearing, the match between Argentina and Brazil, Sunday is so great as they get.

The meetings between the South American giants are always heated, but the affairs of the weekend World Cup qualifier in Argentina's Rosario city is the spice has given more by the desperate need of Argentina for the points.

Brazil above the regional classification classification ahead of Chile and Paraguay and, possibly, could book their place in next summer's tournament if results go their way this weekend, but Argentina are struggling.

The appointment of the legendary Diego Maradona coaching has not managed to inspire an upturn in the fortunes of Argentina after a below par start to the campaign and enter the game in fourth place and the final classification.

Por contraste, su homólogo Dunga, el capitán, cuando Brasil ganó la Copa del Mundo de 1994 en Estados Unidos, ha convertido a la Selecao en una unidad bien entrenados, contra-atacar.

Under his guidance, Brazil won the Copa America 2007 - beat Argentina 3-0 in the final - and win the Confederations Cup in June, but the center-back John says that the focus should be on the players, instead of illustrious coaches.

"Maradona was a tremendous player who shares a beautiful story with the Argentine national team," said Roma defender....[source]

Scolari: Brazil and Barça the best

Few coaches boast a CV as remarkable as Luiz Felipe Scolari's. At club level, he lifted the Brasileirao trophy and won the Copa Libertadores with two different teams. On the international front, he masterminded Brazil's 2002 FIFA World Cup Korea/Japan™ conquest and guided Portugal to the final of UEFA EURO 2004.

Scolari raised some eyebrows in July, though, when he assumed the reins at Bunyodkor, who are, courtesy of an admirable unbeaten run under the 60-year-old, cruising to a successful defence of their Uzbek League crown. However, Felipão has a greater challenge on his hands: to lead the Tashkent side to the AFC Champions League title and a place at December's FIFA Club World Cup.

As next month's quarter-final with Pohang Steelers approaches, FIFA.com spoke to Scolari about coaching Bunyodkor, the differences between European, Asian and South American football, and his ambitions for the future.

FIFA.com: Felipão, after coaching prestigious sides such as Brazil, Portugal and Chelsea, why did you chose to go to Uzbekistan?....[source]

Old foes in Diego's sights

Diego Armando Maradona's career in the game has been intertwined with that of Argentina's fiercest footballing rivals: Brazil. From his red card against the Auriverde at the 1982 FIFA World Cup Spain™ through the eternal debate over Pele and his claims to being the world's best, to the wonderful run and pass which helped win a memorable encounter at Italy 1990, El Diez and A Seleção have shared decisive moments aplenty.

The latest chapter in the Albiceleste icon's own Brazilian story is set to be written on 5 September, when he guides his Argentina charges in his first clásico as coach: a game that could prove vital on the road to South Africa 2010. As the day of the match looms large, Maradona took time out to speak to FIFA.com about opposite number Dunga, Brazil's strengths and some of the fiercest duels between the two nations during his playing career.

You can access the first part of this interview by clicking on the link on the right-hand menu.

FIFA.com: Diego, another huge clash with Brazil is fast approaching. How would you explain the rivalry between the two countries to somebody not from either nation?....[source]

Kaka: Messi best soccer player in world right now

SAO PAULO (AP) -Brazilian star Kaka remains hopeful he will be crowned the best soccer player in the world again. For now, he acknowledges Lionel Messi deserves that title.

"He is a player who makes a difference," Kaka said on Thursday, just two days before meeting Messi in a World Cup qualifier between South American rivals Brazil and Argentina. "I would vote for him for all he has done, leading Barcelona to all these titles."

Messi has never won FIFA's Player of the Year Award but he is considered a front-runner for this year's title. Kaka won it in 2007 and has always said his goal was to earn the prize again...[source]

Maradona predicts win for Argentina over Brazil

MEXICO CITY (AP) -Argentina coach Diego Maradona predicts victory over Brazil in Saturday's critical World Cup qualifier. He better be right.

Otherwise, trouble unfolds for a team struggling to reach next year's tournament in South Africa. A loss would put Maradona under even more pressure from some of the world's most demanding soccer fans, many already questioning his tactical acumen.

And the tension will only grow for next week's game at Paraguay, which leads the Argentines in the qualifying standings...[source]

Palermo gets surprise recall to Argentina squad

Veteran striker Martin Palermo was surprisingly named in the Argentina squad for the forthcoming World Cup qualifiers against Brazil and Paraguay.

The 35-year-old has not worn the shirt Argentina in the last nine years, while there were two final calls from other planes made by Diego Maradona to coach Rolando Schiavi and Rodrigo Brana receive their calls on the first Monday night.

Maradona decided to call up the trio after seeing that several of the 25 men who had chosen to come to Argentina with injuries.

Inter Milan duo Nicolas Burdisso and Diego Milito and Boca Juniors midfielder Sebastian Battaglia are almost ruled out for these qualifiers.

Palermo's last appearance was in Argentina for a World Cup qualifier in November 2000, a 2-0 win over Chile....[source]

Argentina squad: Juan Pablo Carrizo (Zaragoza), Mariano Andujar (Catania), Sergio Romero (AZ Alkmaar); Javier Zanetti (Inter Milan), Nicolas Pareja (Espanyol), Fabricio Coloccini (Newcastle), Gabriel Heinze (Marseille), Nicolas Burdisso (Inter Milan), Sebastian Dominguez, Emiliano Papa, Nicolas Otamendi (all Velez Sarsfield), Rolando Schiavi (Newell's Old Boys); Fernando Gago (Real Madrid), Javier Mascherano (Liverpool), Maxi Rodriguez (Atletico Madrid), Jesus Datolo (Napoli), Juan Sebastian Veron and Rodrigo Brana (Estudiantes), Mario Bolatti (Huracan), Sebastian Battaglia (Boca Juniors); Carlos Tevez (Manchester City), Lionel Messi (Barcelona), Sergio Aguero (Atletico Madrid), Diego Milito (Inter Milan), Lisandro Lopez (Lyon), Ezequiel Lavezzi (Napoli), Eduardo Salvio (Lanus), Martin Palermo (Boca Juniors).

Your what in your hands, Carlitos?

"Playing like that, we'll win more matches''; ''We're still dependent on ourselves''; ''We're going to have our arses in our hands.'' Three members of the Argentine national side all - more or less - agreeing.

The first meeting is Mariano Andujar, goalkeeper of Estudiantes de La Plata, in the last World Cup qualifying double-header, has been the first choice of Diego Maradona. The second is Javier Zanetti, and the third, which shows all the eloquence which is famous for, is Carlos Tevez.

The words I really want to know now, of course, are those that Diego Maradona will tell his players when Argentina will meet in September for their next qualifier. The 2-0 loss to Ecuador in Quito on Wednesday night, but was unearned after a performance that was a big improvement on some recent shows, in Argentina leaves no margin for error.

Brazil - Argentina's next opponent - Paraguay beat (VS first second when the match kicked-off), and Chile, now sit between the two, but Maradona's boys once again gave us the initial performance of the international break and again is for the wrong reasons...[source]

Kone out of Ivory Coast World Cup qualifier

The striker Bakary Kone has withdrawn from the Ivory Coast team for World Cup qualifier against Burkina Faso on Saturday after picking up a knee in the action of France Ligue 1, the Football Federation of Côte d'Ivoire said.


The striker joined Marseille as part of midfielder Christian Koffi Ndri, better known as Romaric, who plays for Seville in Spain. Kone was injured against champions Girondins de Bordeaux on Sunday, while Romaric has lost with an ankle problem.

A home win in qualifying from Group E in Abidjan, along with the failure of Guinea to beat Malawi in Blantyre, the same day would allow the Ivory Coast qualify for the end of next year in South Africa...[source]

Mutu out of Romania's World Cup qualifiers

Romanian forward Adrian Mutu will miss the World Cup qualifiers in 2010 against France and Austria, after suffering a thigh injury, the Romanian Football Federation (FRF) said on Wednesday.


The FRF Fiorentina Mutu said he had suffered a minor injury to his right thigh and asked the FC Timisoara Gheorghe Bucur forward to the team.

Romania are fifth in Group Seven with seven points from six games, 11 points behind the leaders of Serbia. They play France in Paris on Saturday and hosts Austria four days later...[source]

Caldwell to miss Macedonia and Norway games

Steven Caldwell has been ruled by the head of Scotland crucial World Cup double against Macedonia and Norway.

Burnley captain has not escaped from the groin injury picked up in his country's 4-0 drubbing in Norway last month, which was his first call for nearly three years.

Defense Caldwell, 28, has not featured for his club since the chief of Scotland, but George Burley decided to keep him in his squad for the last two games in Group Nine campaign...[source]

Becks: England can win World Cup under Capello

England midfielder David Beckham has said he believes his country can win the World Cup in South Africa, under the direction of Fabio Capello.

England have impressed in qualifying after winning seven of their Group Six games to date and seal progression to the showpiece event with victory over Croatia, next week.

Capello's side have a friendly against Slovenia on Saturday at Wembley Stadium and into the standings with a confidence that they had before their meeting before Euro 2008, which saw England fail to qualify for a major international tournament for the first time since 1994.

Beckham, a former national team captain, has heaped praise on the Italian work so far and speak with confidence about the chances of his team in South Africa...[source]

Van Nistelrooy targets World Cup place after injury

Ruud van Nistelrooy wants to return to international football and goes to a place in the Netherlands squad for World Cup finals 2010, the Real Madrid striker said on Thursday.

Van Nistelrooy has announced his retirement from the international scene after Euro 2008 saying he wanted to concentrate on his club career, but the 33-year-old, who returns to action nine months after undergoing surgery on his right knee, it has had a change of heart.

"I want to be important for Real Madrid and I think I can be. This is my goal," said sports daily Marca. "I could have gone to another club with less pressure, but I know that I am able. Also, I want to fight for the national team and I call for you to play in the World Cup...[source]

2010 World Cup Qualifying

Qualifying for the next World Cup is now underway around the world in the race to join South Africa in the final.

Again there will be 32 participating nations. South Africa joined five other African nations, plus 13 from Europe, four from South America and Asia and three from Concacaf. There will be two places decided by a play / Oceania Asia-off and / CONCACAF play-off South America.

ALREADY QUALIFIED

Hosts - South Africa
From Europe/UEFA - Netherlands
From Asia/AFC - Australia
From Asia/AFC - Japan
From Asia/AFC - South Korea
From Asia/AFC - Korea DPR

more....[source]

Old rivalry heating up

It is one of the fiercest rivalries in world football. Two giants of the game that have never seen eyes like no other and cause a heated atmosphere when they meet. No, Argentina and Brazil, but Diego Maradona and Pele.

They may have missed it for about six years in the international playing circuit, but the two players who immediately jump to mind the "greatest of all time" debate arises have clashed many times in the media communication and travel ahead of Brazil to Argentina to World Cup qualifier this weekend, has been different.

The always controversial Maradona has raised the intensity of rivalry in recent times, saying things like "I was a better player than Pele was" and "Argentina has the best players of Brazil", but it takes a lot to bring Brazilian legend, who hit back with a ferocity that is usually associated with one of his shots ahead of the game in Rosario...[source]

Dunga shrugs off rivalry with Maradona

Brazil coach Dunga insists that their rivalry to play with Argentina coach Maradona will not affect World Cup qualifier on Saturday the Cup among the giants of South America.

Both players captain their countries to win the World Cup and also played against each other in the 1990 World Cup, but this weekend marks his first match as coach.

"Each of us had our history as a player and now we are taking steps as coaches," Dunga said in a press conference Wednesday.

As players, the couple could not have been different. Dunga was a defensive midfielder, while Maradona was a creative forward, but the Brazilian said he was also irrelevant.

"Football with 11 Maradonas not going to work, with 11 Dungas football would not work," said Dunga. "Each has its characteristics and mode of being, totally different from the other.

"I'm not worried about others, I worry about the Brazilian national team."...[source]

Argentina's Lionel Messi Scores Five Goals In Brazil Appetizer
'La Pulga' showed that he is razor-sharp ready for the dual...

Lionel Messi found the back of the net five times in the first preparation of the Argentina match before the decisive qualifying for the 2010 World Cup to arch-rivals Brazil on Sunday.

The Barcelona star was dramatically Diego Maradona as part of local side thrashed 7-0 Tristan Suarez. Not only score five times, but showed his incredible ability in the game. Carlos Tevez and Jesus Datolo scored another two goals from Argentina...[source]

Eduardo banned for two games after Celtic dive

Arsenal striker Eduardo has been banned for two matches by UEFA for diving to win a penalty against Celtic in a Champions League qualifier last week.

UEFA has announced that its Control and Disciplinary Body suspended Croatian international "to deceive the referee."

Arsenal Eduardo will miss the league games outside group at Standard Liege on 16 September and the home match with Olympiacos on September 29.

The Gunners have three days to file an appeal.

UEFA said in a statement: "The UEFA Control and Disciplinary Body considered the case today that the Arsenal player Eduardo 'to deceive the referee' during the reproduction of the UEFA Champions League-off second leg on August 26 against Celtic, and has suspended the two-player competition matches in UEFA club."...[source]

Plenty of fans forming a line for Argentina-Brazil tickets

BUENOS AIRES, Argentina (AP) - A capacity crowd of 45,000 is expected for Saturday's qualifying critical World Cup between the bitter rivals Argentina and Brazil. Demand is so great that several hundred people were in line Tuesday waiting for tickets go on sale.

High-end tickets were available on Wednesday at Estadio Gigante de Arroyito, in Rosario, about 300 kilometers (180 miles) northwest of Buenos Aires. Popular-price tickets on sale Friday.

Ernesto Bua, a student, told the Ole newspaper was able to study while waiting in line in a small tent.

"Same thing. Instead of studying at home, I study here," he said...[source]

Brazil wary of playing in small Rosario stadium


RIO DE JANEIRO (AP) - Brazil is a little wary of playing in the cozy confines of Estadio Gigante de Arroyito against Argentina this weekend in a World Cup qualifier.

When the two rivals usually meet in Argentina, its largest in the Monumental Stadium in Buenos Aires. But after Argentina coach Diego Maradona complained about the state of the River Plate stadium in June, the party moved to Rosario, some 185 miles (300 kilometers) north of the capital.

There, only 16 feet (five meters) that separates the field from the stands.

"We know that the fans are closer to the stadium in Rosario, and that only creates an atmosphere of pressure," Brazil defender Juan told the FIFA website.

Another challenge: Maradona called the pitch was cut before Saturday's game, which should speed up the game and allow the likes of Lionel Messi of Argentina quickly attack large Brazilian defenders...[source]