Poor old Trap. Killed by le hand of Thierry. The former Azzurri boss combined all of his 30-odd years worth of managerial guile to almost pull off a quite remarkable reverse in Paris. So near, yet so far. Giovanni Trapattoni will not be leading his Irish chargers to South Africa, and Henry's subsequent admission of guilt and the cries of injustice from all quarters will do little to appease anybody belonging to the Republic of Ireland football team.
Three days on from 'Handball-gate' and we've had an earful from all and sundry. Even politicians and Presidents are now wading in. FIFA have confirmed there will not be a replay. The result stands. Harsh it may be, fair, it certainly is not. France are going to the World Cup. End of.
Usually with controversial incidents we have to put up with the 'was it - wasn't it' debate rumbling on until the next talking point it off its perch. The fact the handball was so obvious means we don't have to sit through that, athough inevitably enough, the calls have come for video technology to be introduced. Whilst this writer completely understands the merits and the support for video replays and such like, he is totally against it.
The French goal shouldn't have stood. It was cheating, blatant. True, a video replay would have cleared the issue up in no time leaving the remainder of the game free to run its natural course, with a true victor established. Henry's reputation would be intact, Ireland could hold no grievances, and everybody would be happy. But, in this compelling and contentious sport of ours, are we really kidding ourselves into believing that everything would be simply cleared up, leaving no fuss or controversy after a few clicks of a video ref's computer? Is this really going to happen?
To use the Henry goal as a microcosm, would the video ref even have been used in this instance? Some suggestions as to how far we go with TV evidence argue it should only be used for goal-line decisions. If this was the case, it would have been utterly useless on Wednesday night, and thus would only then fuel the fire of further extending those jurisdictions to penalty box behaviour and so on and so forth. The floodgates are now open. We would extend and extend again until the whole game would be officiated from upstairs, apart from one bloke in the middle being told to peep his whistle on command. Is this what we want?
So here we are then, Florent Malouda's just about to drift in this free-kick, the whole field under heavy surveillance. Henry handballs, Ireland complain, video ref sees it, disallows goal. But what's this? A French official has spotted a tug on someone's shirt and is demanding a penalty! But there's also an infringement on an Irish defender. Are we now overlooking the handball to sniff out an offence elsewhere? The infringements both look like fouls, but which do you go with? The one that occurred first or the one that looks worse? All of a sudden, we've gone from looking at a handball, to deciphering penalty box horseplay, all with half an eye on offside or whatever else comes clean after five or six replays from alternate angles. Where does this start, where does this stop? If it starts it will never stop. Coach Trapattoni must have benefited from some debateable decisions going his way over the years, this time he has not. Karma, now lets leave it that way.
If Trap's adopted nation won't be at the World Cup, at least he can swap the Guinness for a glass of Chianti and watch his motherland. Following on from a stuttering finale to their WC Qualifying group, the Azzurri produced two less-than-inspired friendly performances this week, in their last action before World Cup year. In all honesty, it's often difficult to truly ascertain what you can and cannot take from these international friendlies. Coming in the middle of a hectic club scene and with first team regulars going down with minor ailments, it really is a thankless task for Marcello Lippi. Although the Holland game was completely devoid of positives, the Sweden match saw the fringe players show a desire to impress and force a place into the final 23-man squad. This hunger can only push the remainder of the squad further, keeping them on their toes and requiring them to show a similar urgency to be involved as la Nazionale head to Africa to defend their title.
Domestically, it is a crunch week for Inter, in Europe especially. Ahead of the fifth round of Champions League games on Tuesday and Wednesday, Inter, Juventus and Milan all have essentially winnable games against Bologna, Udinese and Cagliari respectively. Il Biscione's lead at the top of Serie A has been cut to five points, but of more pressing concern will be their trip to the Camp Nou in a clash which Barcelona, worryingly, must win. With the handball-proof Thierry Henry lining up against the Nerazzurri, Jose Mourinho's side must improve their appalling continental form over the past year to progress to the knockout stages of the competition. A draw would do, a defeat would leave them perilously close to elimination.
The closer we come to January, the busier the gossip columnists become. Now, for those of us who love a bit of idle tittle-tattle, you'll be interested to hear that Inter and Chelsea are locked in a £40m battle for Sergio Aguero, Andrea Dossena will be rescued from his Liverpool hell by Napoli, Juve and Inter will fight it out for Andrea Ranocchia and Milan are after Eden Dzeko, Luis Fabiano and pretty much anyone else that can put the ball in the back of the net. Mid-November and there's already hundreds of millions of Euro's in transfer fees being exchanged. What global recession?
Friday, 20 November 2009
Monday, 16 November 2009
News from the Peninsula
It’s only right and sincere to starts this week’s news round-up by offering our deepest thoughts and condolences to the friends and family of Robert Enke, who tragically died this week, aged 32.
It’s a shame that the public only tend to respond to the human nature of professional footballers when such sad events occur. These often unwilling and unnatural role models are subject to immense professional and private scrutiny, placing an unfair burden on individuals who are simply choosing to excel in their chosen field. Already this season, both Gigi Buffon and Momo Sissoko have admitted to suffering from depression; struggling to cope with the great expectation and sacrifice heaped upon them. Despite all of the money, the fame and the adulation, these false idols are still prone to raw human emotion and feeling.
The Enke case has highlighted that we can only see so far into the lives of a professional footballer. We can analyse their form and fitness, their attitude and application – what we cannot see is what goes on deep within; in their heart and soul. At times like this we must remember that they are not idols or heroes – they are mere mortals. Rest in peace, Robert.
It is also an opportune moment to wish Carlo Cudicini well in his recovery from a motorcycle accident in London. The Tottenham Goalkeeper suffered ‘potentially life-changing injuries’ when his motorbike crashed with a car on Thursday. The full extents of his injuries are yet to be known, but ‘life changing’ would suggest his career hangs in the balance. Get well soon, Carlo.
On field, the Azzurri’s preparations for South Africa 2010 start in earnest with a double header friendly week with home games against the Netherlands in Pescara and Sweden in Cesena. With a string of injuries to established members of the Azzurri squad, Marcello Lippi has chosen to call-up debutants Antonio Candreva, Davide Biondini and Mattia Cassani, as well as hand further opportunities to Daniele Galloppa, Domenico Cristico, Salvatore Bocchetti, Christian Maggio and Raffaele Palladino.
Coach Lippi is facing the tough task of honing a 23-man squad, so the upcoming fixtures will provide an interesting insight as to which of the peripheral squad players can force their way into the reckoning. Following a lacklustre finish to the Qualifying campaign with below par showings against the Republic of Ireland and Cyprus, Lippi now has a blank canvas to sculpt and mould the squad and tactics of the team to his very tailored specifications. This international break is the last get-together before World Cup year, in which there are only three further warm-up games before the tournament kicks-off in June, and Lippi admits he already has the majority of his squad selected, “Our journey is now in its final stages and it's a decisive time for us. We have worked with a group of 35 players - 23 of them will be going to South Africa. It will be very difficult for someone else to be called up come March, but it's not impossible.”
That statement doesn’t read too well for Antonio Cassano, who has been continually overlooked by Lippi, despite his outstanding form for Sampdoria. Doriani President Riccardo Garrone claims to know a ‘very ugly story’ behind Lippi’s refusal to pick ‘Fantantonio’ for la Nazionale, although he was reticent to give details. This insight was given short-shrift by FIGC President Giancarlo Abete, who appeared to back up the assumption that Lippi believes Cassano would have a destabilising effect in the changing room, “Cassano’s value has never been up for discussion, but the group is what counts.”
Prior to last week’s match between Inter and Roma, the sparring between managers Jose Mourinho and Claudio Ranieri had refreshingly taken an accepted, complimentary air, with neither one nor the other back-biting or sniping. Cue the final whistle at the San Siro and all that tranquillity had gone. Mourinho accused Roma of being negative, before tucking into the officials for their constant whistle-blowing. In turn, Ranieri retorted that the Giallorossi had been ‘battered heavily’ by the Nerazzurri’s rough play, and accused il Campione of ‘systematic, tactical and professional’ fouling. A furious Ranieri complained, ““I like physical football, but next time we need to come here with armour. They are big bullies.” Mourinho, bully? Surely not?
Congratulations to David Trezeguet who this week equalled the Juventus club record for goals scored by a foreign player. In the 5-2 victory over Atalanta, ‘Trez’ notched for the 167th time in a Bianconeri shirt, pulling himself level with legendary Argentine striker, Omar Sivori. However, the Argentinian born ace still has a long way to go to become top-goalscorer of all-time for the Turin giants; that record is held by team-mate Alex Del Piero with 262.
It’s a shame that the public only tend to respond to the human nature of professional footballers when such sad events occur. These often unwilling and unnatural role models are subject to immense professional and private scrutiny, placing an unfair burden on individuals who are simply choosing to excel in their chosen field. Already this season, both Gigi Buffon and Momo Sissoko have admitted to suffering from depression; struggling to cope with the great expectation and sacrifice heaped upon them. Despite all of the money, the fame and the adulation, these false idols are still prone to raw human emotion and feeling.
The Enke case has highlighted that we can only see so far into the lives of a professional footballer. We can analyse their form and fitness, their attitude and application – what we cannot see is what goes on deep within; in their heart and soul. At times like this we must remember that they are not idols or heroes – they are mere mortals. Rest in peace, Robert.
It is also an opportune moment to wish Carlo Cudicini well in his recovery from a motorcycle accident in London. The Tottenham Goalkeeper suffered ‘potentially life-changing injuries’ when his motorbike crashed with a car on Thursday. The full extents of his injuries are yet to be known, but ‘life changing’ would suggest his career hangs in the balance. Get well soon, Carlo.
On field, the Azzurri’s preparations for South Africa 2010 start in earnest with a double header friendly week with home games against the Netherlands in Pescara and Sweden in Cesena. With a string of injuries to established members of the Azzurri squad, Marcello Lippi has chosen to call-up debutants Antonio Candreva, Davide Biondini and Mattia Cassani, as well as hand further opportunities to Daniele Galloppa, Domenico Cristico, Salvatore Bocchetti, Christian Maggio and Raffaele Palladino.
Coach Lippi is facing the tough task of honing a 23-man squad, so the upcoming fixtures will provide an interesting insight as to which of the peripheral squad players can force their way into the reckoning. Following a lacklustre finish to the Qualifying campaign with below par showings against the Republic of Ireland and Cyprus, Lippi now has a blank canvas to sculpt and mould the squad and tactics of the team to his very tailored specifications. This international break is the last get-together before World Cup year, in which there are only three further warm-up games before the tournament kicks-off in June, and Lippi admits he already has the majority of his squad selected, “Our journey is now in its final stages and it's a decisive time for us. We have worked with a group of 35 players - 23 of them will be going to South Africa. It will be very difficult for someone else to be called up come March, but it's not impossible.”
That statement doesn’t read too well for Antonio Cassano, who has been continually overlooked by Lippi, despite his outstanding form for Sampdoria. Doriani President Riccardo Garrone claims to know a ‘very ugly story’ behind Lippi’s refusal to pick ‘Fantantonio’ for la Nazionale, although he was reticent to give details. This insight was given short-shrift by FIGC President Giancarlo Abete, who appeared to back up the assumption that Lippi believes Cassano would have a destabilising effect in the changing room, “Cassano’s value has never been up for discussion, but the group is what counts.”
Prior to last week’s match between Inter and Roma, the sparring between managers Jose Mourinho and Claudio Ranieri had refreshingly taken an accepted, complimentary air, with neither one nor the other back-biting or sniping. Cue the final whistle at the San Siro and all that tranquillity had gone. Mourinho accused Roma of being negative, before tucking into the officials for their constant whistle-blowing. In turn, Ranieri retorted that the Giallorossi had been ‘battered heavily’ by the Nerazzurri’s rough play, and accused il Campione of ‘systematic, tactical and professional’ fouling. A furious Ranieri complained, ““I like physical football, but next time we need to come here with armour. They are big bullies.” Mourinho, bully? Surely not?
Congratulations to David Trezeguet who this week equalled the Juventus club record for goals scored by a foreign player. In the 5-2 victory over Atalanta, ‘Trez’ notched for the 167th time in a Bianconeri shirt, pulling himself level with legendary Argentine striker, Omar Sivori. However, the Argentinian born ace still has a long way to go to become top-goalscorer of all-time for the Turin giants; that record is held by team-mate Alex Del Piero with 262.
Wednesday, 11 November 2009
England's Future Stars - Henri Lansbury
For all the glowing tributes and adulation of Arsenal's fantastic youth academy, there is a common misconception that their policy is to recruit and relocate talent from abroad. This notion is partly borne from the number of foreign players who appear to make the grade as opposed to their English counterparts.
Instances of home grown success stories have been in short supply, Theo Walcott was plucked from Southampton, and whilst the club can take credit for Ashley Cole, the likes of David Bentley and Jermaine Pennant have needed to spread their fledgling wings before prospering. This void of English talent emerging from the Shenley training centre will soon be coming to an end.
Last season the young Gunners completed an Academy Premier League and FA Youth Cup double, with a squad largely consisting of players from our shores. The starting XI for the Youth Cup Final first-leg with Liverpool boasted nine Englishmen. Jack Wilshere may be the most instantly recognisable name to many, but within the Emirates there is just as much expectations being placed on another London lad, Henri Lansbury.
With the Gallic spelling of his Christian name, it seems almost inevitable that Lansbury should emerge from the Premier League's most Francophile club. The dynamic midfielder fits the archetypal mould for an Arsenal player, combining excellent technique with the intelligence and appreciation of how football should be played. Such traits are a pre-requisite for any player hoping to emerge from such an illustrious institution, but Lansbury is different, and combines a drive and tenacity not always associated with the dainty skills of an Arsene Wenger protégé.
The beauty of academy football now, is that talented kids can train and be taught by clubs from the ages of six or seven. Previously, the best players were signed up at 12 or 13 and subject to a period of polishing up before being deemed worthy of a YTS contract. Now, with the age lowered, a young player can be schooled almost from kicking a ball for the first time and be brought up with a strong emphasis on technical and tactical aspects of the game. There are no greater exponents of this in the English football than Arsenal, and Lansbury has been subject to this education since the age of nine.
Essentially an attacking central-midfielder, the six-foot Lansbury possesses an impressive speed of feet and thought in and around the opposition penalty area. His passing ranges from subtle, to clever, to decisive - creating and dictating with equal comfort. His goals record for England Under-17s and Under-19s stands at almost one in two, and in a successful loan spell at Scunthorpe United - which provided Lansbury's first taste of league football - the young tyro found the net five times in 17 games. With a healthy record of creating and scoring goals, an immediate comparison could be drawn to Frank Lampard, and given the Chelsea star is progressing into his 30s, an heir apparent needs to be found.
At 19 years of age, Lansbury is a relative old-timer given Arsenal's penchant for blooding kids barely out of school. Indeed, despite making his debut at 17, he has only featured for the Gunners’ first team on four occasions, all in the league cup, and all as substitute. His impact at the Emirates has perhaps not belied his reputation, but elsewhere, out on loan and through the various England youth ranks, noises about his potential remain extremely positive.
In Arsenal's 4-1 rout of Liverpool in last seasons Youth Cup final, Lansbury set up two of the goals and was largely viewed as the standout player on the pitch. This summer, as a member of England’s Under-19 European Championship runners-up squad, he scored three goals during the tournament, including one in the semi-final versus France, and another during the 7-1 thrashing of Slovenia, capping an exceptional individual display in which he also assisted another three goals. The extent of his showings for the Under-19s in Ukraine justified the hype about a player whom has somewhat slipped under the radar at Arsenal, with the likes of Wilshere and Aaron Ramsey being given more exposure to the senior squad. On transfer deadline day, a loan move to Watford was sealed, giving Lansbury further chance to impress on a regular basis in the tough environment of the Championship.
This experience should see if Lansbury has the temperament as well as the technique to succeed at the highest level. Early indications are good. His performances have highlighted his exceptional talent, most notably when Sky cameras rolled into town for Sheffield Wednesday, in which the loanee delivered two very well taken goals, in a man of the match cameo. For Malky Mackay’s men, Lansbury has assumed his favoured central-midfield berth, a vocation which can prove physically demanding in the muscular slog of the Championship. In this role he has operated admirably, negotiating the hurly-burly side of the game whilst also projecting elements of his Arsenal brand of football on the team. It is such assignments which prove invaluable to the making of young footballers, and a stint at this level could hone Lansbury into a true all-round midfielder.
Of course, the hard yards start now. The list of promising players who never fulfil their potential is endless, and the real test will be if he can attain a place in Wenger’s marvellous side. If he can do that, then we do have a prospect on our hands. Complete midfielders who can tackle, pass well, influence games, create and score goals are a rare commodity - even more so when they’re English.
Instances of home grown success stories have been in short supply, Theo Walcott was plucked from Southampton, and whilst the club can take credit for Ashley Cole, the likes of David Bentley and Jermaine Pennant have needed to spread their fledgling wings before prospering. This void of English talent emerging from the Shenley training centre will soon be coming to an end.
Last season the young Gunners completed an Academy Premier League and FA Youth Cup double, with a squad largely consisting of players from our shores. The starting XI for the Youth Cup Final first-leg with Liverpool boasted nine Englishmen. Jack Wilshere may be the most instantly recognisable name to many, but within the Emirates there is just as much expectations being placed on another London lad, Henri Lansbury.
With the Gallic spelling of his Christian name, it seems almost inevitable that Lansbury should emerge from the Premier League's most Francophile club. The dynamic midfielder fits the archetypal mould for an Arsenal player, combining excellent technique with the intelligence and appreciation of how football should be played. Such traits are a pre-requisite for any player hoping to emerge from such an illustrious institution, but Lansbury is different, and combines a drive and tenacity not always associated with the dainty skills of an Arsene Wenger protégé.
The beauty of academy football now, is that talented kids can train and be taught by clubs from the ages of six or seven. Previously, the best players were signed up at 12 or 13 and subject to a period of polishing up before being deemed worthy of a YTS contract. Now, with the age lowered, a young player can be schooled almost from kicking a ball for the first time and be brought up with a strong emphasis on technical and tactical aspects of the game. There are no greater exponents of this in the English football than Arsenal, and Lansbury has been subject to this education since the age of nine.
Essentially an attacking central-midfielder, the six-foot Lansbury possesses an impressive speed of feet and thought in and around the opposition penalty area. His passing ranges from subtle, to clever, to decisive - creating and dictating with equal comfort. His goals record for England Under-17s and Under-19s stands at almost one in two, and in a successful loan spell at Scunthorpe United - which provided Lansbury's first taste of league football - the young tyro found the net five times in 17 games. With a healthy record of creating and scoring goals, an immediate comparison could be drawn to Frank Lampard, and given the Chelsea star is progressing into his 30s, an heir apparent needs to be found.
At 19 years of age, Lansbury is a relative old-timer given Arsenal's penchant for blooding kids barely out of school. Indeed, despite making his debut at 17, he has only featured for the Gunners’ first team on four occasions, all in the league cup, and all as substitute. His impact at the Emirates has perhaps not belied his reputation, but elsewhere, out on loan and through the various England youth ranks, noises about his potential remain extremely positive.
In Arsenal's 4-1 rout of Liverpool in last seasons Youth Cup final, Lansbury set up two of the goals and was largely viewed as the standout player on the pitch. This summer, as a member of England’s Under-19 European Championship runners-up squad, he scored three goals during the tournament, including one in the semi-final versus France, and another during the 7-1 thrashing of Slovenia, capping an exceptional individual display in which he also assisted another three goals. The extent of his showings for the Under-19s in Ukraine justified the hype about a player whom has somewhat slipped under the radar at Arsenal, with the likes of Wilshere and Aaron Ramsey being given more exposure to the senior squad. On transfer deadline day, a loan move to Watford was sealed, giving Lansbury further chance to impress on a regular basis in the tough environment of the Championship.
This experience should see if Lansbury has the temperament as well as the technique to succeed at the highest level. Early indications are good. His performances have highlighted his exceptional talent, most notably when Sky cameras rolled into town for Sheffield Wednesday, in which the loanee delivered two very well taken goals, in a man of the match cameo. For Malky Mackay’s men, Lansbury has assumed his favoured central-midfield berth, a vocation which can prove physically demanding in the muscular slog of the Championship. In this role he has operated admirably, negotiating the hurly-burly side of the game whilst also projecting elements of his Arsenal brand of football on the team. It is such assignments which prove invaluable to the making of young footballers, and a stint at this level could hone Lansbury into a true all-round midfielder.
Of course, the hard yards start now. The list of promising players who never fulfil their potential is endless, and the real test will be if he can attain a place in Wenger’s marvellous side. If he can do that, then we do have a prospect on our hands. Complete midfielders who can tackle, pass well, influence games, create and score goals are a rare commodity - even more so when they’re English.
Saturday, 7 November 2009
News from the Peninsula
It's always been a trait of footballs top teams to rescue games with late goals, and thanks to Diego Milito and Wesley Sneijder’s late efforts in Kiev on Wednesday night, Internazionale's European dream is still alive.
With four minutes left to play at the Lobanovsky Dynamo Stadium, the Nerrazzuri were bottom of Champions League Group F, with a daunting trip to the Camp Nou still to come. The prospect of failing to progress to the knock-out stages of the competition was all too real, and such a failure would have raised serious doubts as to Jose Mourinho's stewardship of the club.
As it was, the late rally saw Inter climb to the top of the table, with Barcelona in third. There is no love lost between the 'Special One' and the Catalan giants, and the clash between the pair in Spain on November 24 could be one of the games of the season. A defeat for either side could put the chance of a place in the last sixteen in serious jeopardy. Bonfire night may have just passed, but expect more fireworks when the pair collide.
The victory over Dynamo Kiev was il Biscione's first in eight attempts in the Champions League, and credit to Mourinho, his decision to bring on Mario Balotelli and Thiago Motta when trailing at half-time firmly swung the tie in Inter's favour. Three consecutive draws in the group, including an insipid stalemate at Rubin Kazan had led to questions being asked over Mourinho's tactics and ability to deliver the illustrious trophy he was brought in to provide. Qualification is far from certain, but the picture is looking far healthier than it was with five minutes to play in Ukraine.
Mourinho will be up against a familiar face on Sunday, another ex Chelsea boss Claudio Ranieri when he brings his Roma side to the Giuseppe Meazza. There is plenty of scope for verbal jousting given the Portugese tacticians relative success over Ranieri in west London and during Ranieri's stint at Juventus, but so far this week relations have proved amicable; “I respect Ranieri. It’s true we have had a few run-ins and who knows there could be more in future, but I respect him as a person and as a Coach,” said Mourinho. Ranieri returned the pleasantries by declaring, "I am neither friend nor foe to Mourinho, though clearly he is a capable Coach who is doing well in Italy."
The Giallorossi's shocking start to the season needs to end sometime soon, and although a trip to the home of the champions would not come that high on a list of preferred destinations, Ranieri insists il Lupi can get a result with a 'perfect performance.' So far, Roma's form has been anything but perfect, and with the league's top scorers facing the side with the second worst defence, the men from the eternal city will be seeking divine intervention.
If you thought that the murky past of Calciopoli had been laid to rest, think again. In a trial in Naples, The former secretary of the National Refereeing Commission, Manfredi Martino, has claimed that the random process of allocating referee's to matches was prone to being rigged. Martino has alleged that former referee designators Paolo Bergamo and Pierluigi Pairetto asked him to put the names of certain officials into specific balls, “On two occasions Bergamo and Pairetto told me explicitly to put the names of certain games and the names of certain referees into the balls that were easily recognisable,” Martino told the court. He has also suggested the process was used during a potential Scudetto deciding match between Milan and Juventus. Further revelations could come out as the case continues.
In possibly the most laughable career plan you'll hear for a while, Ronaldinho has claimed he would like to finish his career in Milan...and play until he's 40!! Reports had surfaced in the Spanish Media that Dinho was planning to retire from playing football aged just 29, but the Brazilian ace has scotched those rumours and insists he aims to immitate a Rossoneri legend, "I am enjoying myself. I like this Milan. I want to be like Maldini and play until I am 40 and even older." If his aims are to become reality, the Samba star could do with taking a few notes on Maldini's lifestyle, which didn't include drinking and dancing in the city's nightclubs until all hours and neglecting training. He may also need to find himself being coached by some very, very tolerant coaches. Oh well Ronnie, at least the intentions there.
With four minutes left to play at the Lobanovsky Dynamo Stadium, the Nerrazzuri were bottom of Champions League Group F, with a daunting trip to the Camp Nou still to come. The prospect of failing to progress to the knock-out stages of the competition was all too real, and such a failure would have raised serious doubts as to Jose Mourinho's stewardship of the club.
As it was, the late rally saw Inter climb to the top of the table, with Barcelona in third. There is no love lost between the 'Special One' and the Catalan giants, and the clash between the pair in Spain on November 24 could be one of the games of the season. A defeat for either side could put the chance of a place in the last sixteen in serious jeopardy. Bonfire night may have just passed, but expect more fireworks when the pair collide.
The victory over Dynamo Kiev was il Biscione's first in eight attempts in the Champions League, and credit to Mourinho, his decision to bring on Mario Balotelli and Thiago Motta when trailing at half-time firmly swung the tie in Inter's favour. Three consecutive draws in the group, including an insipid stalemate at Rubin Kazan had led to questions being asked over Mourinho's tactics and ability to deliver the illustrious trophy he was brought in to provide. Qualification is far from certain, but the picture is looking far healthier than it was with five minutes to play in Ukraine.
Mourinho will be up against a familiar face on Sunday, another ex Chelsea boss Claudio Ranieri when he brings his Roma side to the Giuseppe Meazza. There is plenty of scope for verbal jousting given the Portugese tacticians relative success over Ranieri in west London and during Ranieri's stint at Juventus, but so far this week relations have proved amicable; “I respect Ranieri. It’s true we have had a few run-ins and who knows there could be more in future, but I respect him as a person and as a Coach,” said Mourinho. Ranieri returned the pleasantries by declaring, "I am neither friend nor foe to Mourinho, though clearly he is a capable Coach who is doing well in Italy."
The Giallorossi's shocking start to the season needs to end sometime soon, and although a trip to the home of the champions would not come that high on a list of preferred destinations, Ranieri insists il Lupi can get a result with a 'perfect performance.' So far, Roma's form has been anything but perfect, and with the league's top scorers facing the side with the second worst defence, the men from the eternal city will be seeking divine intervention.
If you thought that the murky past of Calciopoli had been laid to rest, think again. In a trial in Naples, The former secretary of the National Refereeing Commission, Manfredi Martino, has claimed that the random process of allocating referee's to matches was prone to being rigged. Martino has alleged that former referee designators Paolo Bergamo and Pierluigi Pairetto asked him to put the names of certain officials into specific balls, “On two occasions Bergamo and Pairetto told me explicitly to put the names of certain games and the names of certain referees into the balls that were easily recognisable,” Martino told the court. He has also suggested the process was used during a potential Scudetto deciding match between Milan and Juventus. Further revelations could come out as the case continues.
In possibly the most laughable career plan you'll hear for a while, Ronaldinho has claimed he would like to finish his career in Milan...and play until he's 40!! Reports had surfaced in the Spanish Media that Dinho was planning to retire from playing football aged just 29, but the Brazilian ace has scotched those rumours and insists he aims to immitate a Rossoneri legend, "I am enjoying myself. I like this Milan. I want to be like Maldini and play until I am 40 and even older." If his aims are to become reality, the Samba star could do with taking a few notes on Maldini's lifestyle, which didn't include drinking and dancing in the city's nightclubs until all hours and neglecting training. He may also need to find himself being coached by some very, very tolerant coaches. Oh well Ronnie, at least the intentions there.
Wednesday, 4 November 2009
Milan 1 - 1 Real Madrid
Between them, Milan and Real Madrid have lifted the European Cup in its various guises no fewer than 16 times. Don’t expect that joint tally to be increased this season.
In years previous, the meeting of two of Europe’s most decorated institutions could have given a strong indicator as to the eventual victor of the competition. Last nights match-up, following on from the reverse fixture a fortnight ago, only served to highlight how far the mighty have fallen. The names still demand respect, the product does not.
The Rossoneri’s 3-2 win in Madrid on Matchday Three stirred the neutral audience and delighted the UEFA high command in equal measure. The five goals shared amidst the backdrop of the glistening Santiago Bernabeu was delivered by a cast of A-list names with Hollywood reputations. The entertainment value produced deserved the UEFA red carpet treatment it was granted, but after the audience had gone home, the actors had retreated to their plush pads, and the floodlights dimmed at the set, there was an amateurish feel to the production – littered with dropped lines, stumbles and fumbles. The cut throat nature of the Champions League means there is no scope for a re-take.
Last night, with Milan hosting, the error strewn goal-feast from the Bernabeu was not re-enacted, and a 1-1 draw meant status quo was maintained in Group C. Il Diavolo head los Meringues by goal difference, both on seven points, both ahead of Marseilles whom trail by a point with two games left to play. Having negotiated each other, the duo should progress at the expense of Marseille and FC Zurich.
They should progress, but beneath the grandiose façade the names and tradition bring, there is a brittle, insecure feeling about two teams who seem ill equipped to compete with the likes of Barcelona, Manchester United and Chelsea for this years crown. Real’s comical defensive showing allowed Milan to grab all three points in Spain, whilst Leonardo’s men have already succumbed at home to Group whipping boys Zurich. The old air of invincibility no longer remains.
Indeed, again last night, mistakes were a recurring theme, often punctuating the undoubted quality on show. Los Blanco’s deservedly took the lead after half an hour when another Goalkeeping gaffe from Dida allowed Karim Benzema to slot home after the Teflon-gloved ‘keeper spilled Kaka’s low drive. Kaka, returning to his spiritual home for the first time since his switch to Real was the one beacon of true class. Menacingly floating behind Benzema and Gonzalo Higuain, the Brazilian glided and ghosted past his former team-mates, picking a series of devious passes and embarking on dangerous dribbles in and around the final third, linking with the lively Benzema to good effect. Real managed sixteen attempts on the Milan goal in the first half alone, yet were fortunate not to find themselves trailing at the interval.
Ronaldinho, rising from his Serie A slumber for the big occasion, equalised by slamming an unstoppable penalty high past Iker Casillas after Pepe was adjudged to have handled a Gianluca Zambrotta cross. Then, shortly before half-time, Real’s defensive frailties were further exposed when Alexandre Pato latched onto a high ball forward and fired home, only to be harshly called back for a foul on Alvaro Arbeloa.
The break brought a more formulaic approach to the second half after the end-to-end freestyle of the first, chances were harder to come by, with Massimo Ambrosini shackling the threat of Kaka, yet sub Pippo Inzaghi for the Rossoneri and Marcelo and Raul for los Meringues all had opportunities to snatch the tie.
The game shared, a point gained. However, over 180 minutes, neither of the teams will have convinced onlookers that their positive attacking play will prevail over their definite deficiencies. Milan, such as their domestic form suggests, are severely lacking in the quality of personnel to elevate themselves to the level of serious challengers to win the Champions League. Their forward forays are heavily laden on the exciting Pato and the inconsistent Ronaldinho, with their defence and midfield looking limited in pace.
Real on the other hand have yet to constructively collate the individual components of their squad into any sort of team unit. The formation is a mystery, the blueprint still in the design stage. Such credentials will be unforgiving when they face a team of true pedigree. Cristiano Ronaldo’s return will provide even more offensive outlay, but will not resolve any of the confusion further back. Florentino Perez’s dream team remains just a dream.
Leonardo – “They played better in the first half, created spaces and chances. We were too deep. I'd say the second half was the opposite, as we had the better of it and overall the draw is the right result. To be honest, we feel a bit of regret, as I felt we could win it and strike them at the right time. I'm happy with the way the team played and approached the test.”
Manuel Pellegrini - "I want to talk about how we played in the first half and our attitude, Only Alexandre Pato had a chance for Milan in the first half, but in the second half Milan's style made life difficult for us. In the second half, we held the ball better and by the end I would say we deserved the three points."
Milan 1-1 Real Madrid - Ronaldinho (P) 35 – Benzema 29
Milan (4-2-3-1): Dida - Oddo, Nesta, Thiago Silva, Zambrotta - Ambrosini, Pirlo - Pato, Seedorf, Ronaldinho – Boriello (Inzaghi 79)
Real Madrid (4-2-2-2): Casillas- Sergio Ramos, Pepe, Albiol, Arbeloa – Lass Diarra, Xabi Alonso – Kaka, Marcelo – Higuain (Raul 75), Benzema (V.Nistelrooy 82)
In years previous, the meeting of two of Europe’s most decorated institutions could have given a strong indicator as to the eventual victor of the competition. Last nights match-up, following on from the reverse fixture a fortnight ago, only served to highlight how far the mighty have fallen. The names still demand respect, the product does not.
The Rossoneri’s 3-2 win in Madrid on Matchday Three stirred the neutral audience and delighted the UEFA high command in equal measure. The five goals shared amidst the backdrop of the glistening Santiago Bernabeu was delivered by a cast of A-list names with Hollywood reputations. The entertainment value produced deserved the UEFA red carpet treatment it was granted, but after the audience had gone home, the actors had retreated to their plush pads, and the floodlights dimmed at the set, there was an amateurish feel to the production – littered with dropped lines, stumbles and fumbles. The cut throat nature of the Champions League means there is no scope for a re-take.
Last night, with Milan hosting, the error strewn goal-feast from the Bernabeu was not re-enacted, and a 1-1 draw meant status quo was maintained in Group C. Il Diavolo head los Meringues by goal difference, both on seven points, both ahead of Marseilles whom trail by a point with two games left to play. Having negotiated each other, the duo should progress at the expense of Marseille and FC Zurich.
They should progress, but beneath the grandiose façade the names and tradition bring, there is a brittle, insecure feeling about two teams who seem ill equipped to compete with the likes of Barcelona, Manchester United and Chelsea for this years crown. Real’s comical defensive showing allowed Milan to grab all three points in Spain, whilst Leonardo’s men have already succumbed at home to Group whipping boys Zurich. The old air of invincibility no longer remains.
Indeed, again last night, mistakes were a recurring theme, often punctuating the undoubted quality on show. Los Blanco’s deservedly took the lead after half an hour when another Goalkeeping gaffe from Dida allowed Karim Benzema to slot home after the Teflon-gloved ‘keeper spilled Kaka’s low drive. Kaka, returning to his spiritual home for the first time since his switch to Real was the one beacon of true class. Menacingly floating behind Benzema and Gonzalo Higuain, the Brazilian glided and ghosted past his former team-mates, picking a series of devious passes and embarking on dangerous dribbles in and around the final third, linking with the lively Benzema to good effect. Real managed sixteen attempts on the Milan goal in the first half alone, yet were fortunate not to find themselves trailing at the interval.
Ronaldinho, rising from his Serie A slumber for the big occasion, equalised by slamming an unstoppable penalty high past Iker Casillas after Pepe was adjudged to have handled a Gianluca Zambrotta cross. Then, shortly before half-time, Real’s defensive frailties were further exposed when Alexandre Pato latched onto a high ball forward and fired home, only to be harshly called back for a foul on Alvaro Arbeloa.
The break brought a more formulaic approach to the second half after the end-to-end freestyle of the first, chances were harder to come by, with Massimo Ambrosini shackling the threat of Kaka, yet sub Pippo Inzaghi for the Rossoneri and Marcelo and Raul for los Meringues all had opportunities to snatch the tie.
The game shared, a point gained. However, over 180 minutes, neither of the teams will have convinced onlookers that their positive attacking play will prevail over their definite deficiencies. Milan, such as their domestic form suggests, are severely lacking in the quality of personnel to elevate themselves to the level of serious challengers to win the Champions League. Their forward forays are heavily laden on the exciting Pato and the inconsistent Ronaldinho, with their defence and midfield looking limited in pace.
Real on the other hand have yet to constructively collate the individual components of their squad into any sort of team unit. The formation is a mystery, the blueprint still in the design stage. Such credentials will be unforgiving when they face a team of true pedigree. Cristiano Ronaldo’s return will provide even more offensive outlay, but will not resolve any of the confusion further back. Florentino Perez’s dream team remains just a dream.
Leonardo – “They played better in the first half, created spaces and chances. We were too deep. I'd say the second half was the opposite, as we had the better of it and overall the draw is the right result. To be honest, we feel a bit of regret, as I felt we could win it and strike them at the right time. I'm happy with the way the team played and approached the test.”
Manuel Pellegrini - "I want to talk about how we played in the first half and our attitude, Only Alexandre Pato had a chance for Milan in the first half, but in the second half Milan's style made life difficult for us. In the second half, we held the ball better and by the end I would say we deserved the three points."
Milan 1-1 Real Madrid - Ronaldinho (P) 35 – Benzema 29
Milan (4-2-3-1): Dida - Oddo, Nesta, Thiago Silva, Zambrotta - Ambrosini, Pirlo - Pato, Seedorf, Ronaldinho – Boriello (Inzaghi 79)
Real Madrid (4-2-2-2): Casillas- Sergio Ramos, Pepe, Albiol, Arbeloa – Lass Diarra, Xabi Alonso – Kaka, Marcelo – Higuain (Raul 75), Benzema (V.Nistelrooy 82)
Statistics
Milan – Real Madrid
4 - Corners - 7
9 (2) - Shots (on target) - 24 (10)
14 - Fouls - 19
1 (0) - Yellow cards (Red) - 3 (0)
3 - Offside - 3
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