Barca, Barca!


Barcelona have been at it again, stacking up yet another victory to basically put to bed any one’s, specifically Real Madrid’s, chances of maybe winning the league this year. This was against a team that dealt Barca their only defeat of the season. Numancia were hoping that luck would’ve shone kindly in their favour but unfortunately they were due to see stars.

Numancia’s attitude was ultra defensive with all their players basically stacked up in their half. This was suffocating Barcelona. This was different from their approach in the first half of the season, but it seemed to work for them in the early going because Barca just couldn’t crack them, there was no space.

The chink in Numancia’s armour was found in the 17th minute when Gorinsa found the net. His goal was disallowed, but like a prize WWF fighter Barcelona found Numancia’s weakness and they went to work. It was as if Barcelona had found their stride, after a few moments of unfocusedness. The blows came in more rapidly and steadily from then on, Xavi staked his claim for a goal in the 21st minute, then Pique in the 26th. In the 33rd Messi, Xavi and Yaya also made cases for a goal, Numancia were still stopping Barca but it seemed like their resistance was starting to crumble, but still intact due to the efforts of Ortega & Palacios.

The 1st Half ended goalless.

The 2nd half started with the pace of a Usain Bolt sprintfest, Barca were on a mission, on some “There’s gonna a lot of slow singing and flower bringing….”. Lionel Messi, my choice for FIFA World Player of the Year, next year, opened things up with a strike in the 49th minute. This moment could have been seen as the catalyst for the rest of the game, like Messi sang the hook from the famous Ishmael, of Jozi, Skeem and POC fame, gospel track, “Avulekile amasango…….”. Eto’o was the first to join in and he did on the 52nd minute thanks to the assist from Iniesta.

By the end of the famous gospel track chorus it was 2-0. Wounds were being licked and there was at least 35mins to go. Numancia’s behaved like a wounded, cornered animal; they attacked viciously to restore some kind of order in the game. Of the set piece, which seemed to be a reward, Barkero brought Numancia closer to Barca.
The goal seemed to bother Barcelona as they decided to turn things up a little more. Messi decided to be the architect of Numancia’s ultimate demise; first he set Thierry Henry up then he set himself up, by dribbling two defenders in the box, to wrap the week. Maybe they’ll get a light training session on Monday. Messi was Freddy Kruger in a shirt and shorts, no hat, as he swooped in on the Numancia 18 area 2 more times before the game was done.

The Barcelona Big Three are scoring goals like no other combination in football right now, they are the most unique bunch. When was the last time a team was more than 10 points ahead of the competition at the halfway stage. They are more dominant than anyone, Manchester doesn’t stand a chance, btw this is my other favourite team. These guys look like they’re having fun while they’re playing, that’s not good for opposition.

I wish them luck.

Peace,

Mhayise

F.A. Cup Roundup

It’s been a bumpy F.A. Cup ride for some the premiership teams this past weekend. Although most teams made it through there were some speed wobbles for a few of the bigger names.

Arsenal drew 0-0 with Cardiff City in a game that I would have thought was easily wrapped up before the game started, but football is as dramatic as a daily soap. Aaron Ramsey struggled against his old club, which is what usually happens on such an emotional day, especially for a youngster like Ramsay.

Aston Villa will get another chance to advance to the next round after a goalless draw with Doncaster Rovers. In the 1st half Doncaster were the better of the two teams but Villa changed that after the break. Although chances were created, none were converted as the Doncaster goalkeeper proved to be the difference in this game.

Blackburn also drew 0-0 with Sunderland as Roque Santa Cruz made his first start in 6 weeks, after recovery from an injury. The manager seemed to be happy with his progress and believes he will be up to speed once he’s match fit.

Chelsea moved on to next round with a 3-1 win against Ipswich Town. Michael Ballack contributed two goals to the cause, just to show us all that he still is a world class player. Michael was a doubtful starter because he took a knock in training, but came in to the line up and he made an invaluable contribution to the team.

Fulham went to work, unconvincingly, on Kettering by winning 4-2. Although it was thought that Fulham would struggle since the departure of Jimmy Bullard but they managed to move on. It was difficult for Fulham but they made it through.

The Mersyside derby was like two prize fighters beating each other to a standstill with no winner emerging from the rubble. A week after the draw in the league fixture Everton held The Reds at Anfield. This has been a tough fixture for both teams, but now there is no turning back. The next time they meet someone has to lose, I think they should really put their game faces on because it won’t be easy to walk away with the victory.

The Hull City fairytale continues with a 2-0 smashing of the Millwall Tigers. Record signing, Jimmy Bullard, surely inspired the win since he is Hull’s record signing so far. With the inclusion of Angolan Manuchio, Hull will be hoping that their fortunes will change for the rest of the season.

Manchester United moved on with a 2-1 win over Tottenham Hotspurs. More disappointment for Harry Redknapp, but United have been a tough proposition to swallow for all opponents so far. Berbatov put the game beyond doubt in the 2nd half.

Middlesbrough moved on after a 2-1 win at Molineux. Boro were a injury depleted squad, with suspension also having a negative effect on their chances of going through. It was a much needed win for Boro, who haven’t won in their last 10 games and are travelling to Chelsea and face Blackburn at home, all this week.

Portsmouth, current champions, crashed out of the F.A. Cup with a loss to Swansea City. Pompey were outfought and outplayed, which is was confirmed by Tony Adams, and only fighting spirit will get you through in any cup competition.
West Brom drew 2-2 with Burnley, while West Ham made Gianfranco Zola happy with a 2-0 win to progress to the next round. Both games weren’t pretty with one of them, at least yielding a win.

No more F.A.Cup for now, this week we head straight into the league fixtures with a full calendar of events.

Till the next time, Peace.

Mhayise

$$ The Richest en in Football $$

1. Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed – Club owned: Manchester City – Worth €15bn
2. Lakshmi Mittal and family – Club owned: QPR – Worth €12.5bn
3. Roman Abramovich – Club owned: Chelsea – Worth €7bn
4. Joe Lewis – Club owned: Tottenham Hotspur – Worth €2.5bn
5. Bernie Ecclestone – Club owned: QPR – Worth €2.4bn
6. Stanley Kroenke – Club owned: Arsenal – Worth €2.25bn
7. Alisher Usmanov – Club owned: Arsenal – Worth €1.5bn
8. Lord Grantchester and Moores family – Club owned: Everton – Worth €1.2bn
9. Dermot Desmond – Club owned: Celtic – Worth €1.2bn
10. Lord Ashcroft – Club owned: Watford – Worth €1.1bn

Source: FourFourTwo magazine

PSL...who's buying and who's selling?

The transfer market has been quite busy this side of the New Year. Speculation about this man who seems to be upset about his current situation, as well as this squad looking to land the big fish, all fizzled out into some kind soft transfers. My heart skipped about when I heard that Josta Dladla might to planning on shacking up nAmakhosi...I immediately thought ‘Is this the end of 10111’. Before I ponder too much on this potential addition, let’s wait until it’s signed and sealed!

I must say our (Chief’s) latest addition helped slide the knife deeper into the side of Sundowns’ torso... the way only a trained assassin can. Sorry, I must stop talking about this past weekend; the damage has already been done.

More to the point of today’s update: the transfer markets, and there’s been some interesting news.

Kagiso Dikgacoi unfortunately didn’t get to move to Fulham; all that means in my mind is that Golden Arrows will be in a good position to contend for the title. I said it before, they’re my outside choices to take the league. On some Hull City type theatrics, they ran through the big boys, Chiefs feeling it the most. I’m sure the rest of the squad is going to be happy that their stopper is back.

The Buccaneers also finally decided to lock Katlego Mashego down. I honestly hope that this move will help Pirates, because right now that team needs intervention. I’m sure Irvin Khoza’s got the sickest juju man on the continent laying hexes on opponents just to try and turn it around. Whoever they are, they’re shooting blanks. On paper this squad is dynamite, I can’t say where it’s gone pear shaped for them...but it can stay that way; after all I’m-a-Khosi!

Speaking of Khosis, what possessed us to even consider having ‘Old John’ on the roster?

This man is undoubtedly high maintenance and he behaves like a juvenile delinquent. How can a ‘professional’ football player miss practice for any reason other than injury. He was truant for a few weeks lying, talking about I’m with mommy. I cannot believe how unfocussed this man is. There are teams out there that would love to use his services but his attitude manages to get the better of him. He has a wealth of knowledge from his stint in the premiership, but that’s wasting away as long as he behaves this way. I wish him well but he needs to pull himself together: back straight, chest up.

Just a few fixtures to have on your radar, Pirates v Maritzburg United and Sundowns v Celtic on Wednesday night. These fixtures have smacks of sucker punch written all over. Sundowns & Pirates are still smarting from the weekend’s games and with drama in both camps a loss is the last thing any of them need right now. Good luck to them, but since I’m-a-Khosi they must both fry. Platinum Stars v Amazulu round up Wednesday’s fixtures.

Santos has an opportunity to cause an upset and shift their league title aspirations into high gear with a win against Wits on Friday. These teams are separated by 1 point so there’ll be no love lost in this encounter. Free State Stars & Maritzburg United have the daunting tasks of facing off with the top 2 teams in the league when they meet Supersport & Ajax respectively. For me the tastiest fixture will be the Pirates Arrows game. I’m going with my dark horses this in that fixture.

Next time we discuss PSL it will be after a hot weekend.

Peace, Mhayise

La Liga up date...

What would any commentary on football be without a rundown of La Liga?

As much as it may seem like a one horse race, there may be something to talk about for the rest of the teams.
Barcelona has been playing like a team possessed. They've been 12 points ahead of the pack for quite a while now and this past weekend they maintained their 12 point buffer by beating Osasuna 3-2. They may have come from behind to win this one but that demonstrates to me the desire of the team. They have put all the troubles of last year behind them and are all about business. The big guns, Eto’o, Xavi and Messi, made sure of the win with the 3 goals.

This confirms, to me, that Messi is going to take the FIFA World Player of the year crown. Watch out for them in the Champions league, they’ll definitely do damage. The firepower is jam packed with Thierry Henry having his best season with Barca. They have a date with Deportivo this weekend and this one has all the potential of being explosive.
Real Madrid took 2nd place from Sevilla with a 3-0 thrashing of Mallorca. Robben, Raul & Ramos were responsible for the damage to Mallorca’s mental. Raul celebrated his 500th game with Real in style... who said anything about him being too old?

It’s like troubles were passed on from Barca to Real and vice versa, because Real has stumbled a lot this season but maybe they’re getting it together now. They have the rest of the season to prove that.

Athletico Madrid lost 3-2 to Athletic Bilbao to put them 4 points out of the running for a Champions League spot next season. This has been their third defeat in a row and it’s not looking good for them.

Watch La Liga this season for exciting soccer action, it’s bound to be stunning stuff.

Peace
Mhayise

Who's the man? Word on the street is it's Ronaldo...

It’s been confirmed that Ronaldo was the best player in Europe & the world last season. The trophy for FIFA World Player of the year was handed to Ronaldo by Pele at a ceremony in Switzerland last night.

Ronaldo was the unanimous choice for a group of 135 coaches. This is excellent news for the Manchester United player who has bounced back brilliantly from being in the headlines for a car accident and supposed lack of form. The weekend win against premiership powerhouse Chelsea did a lot of good for the young buck as he had a good game.

Let’s not fool ourselves; Ronaldo was in devastating form last season. He broke the single season goal scoring record for United, which went a long way towards winning the league and Champions league trophies.

Ronaldo also helped the Premiership reach a notable milestone as the only player in the English Premiership to have won a FIFA Player of the Year trophy. Fernando Torres was the other premiership player who came close. My juggernaut of a soccer player, Lionel Messi, came in at ‘not a close’ 2nd. His performances for Barcelona last season were overshadowed by the weak performance of Barcelona as a whole. They, however, are firing from many, if not all, cylinders this season.

My pick for FIFA Player of the next season is Messi. He’s the quintessential maestro. His ball skills are amazing, something Ronaldo wishes he had.

This kind of reminds me of a conversation I had with a dear friend, who highlighted the fact that Ronaldo doesn’t play soccer like someone who is naturally gifted. His skills are based more on the hard work he outs into them every day. This is commendable stuff since no reward comes without some kind of sacrifice. Ronaldo has demonstrated that the hard graft he puts into his art has reaped great rewards for him. Let’s hope he hasn’t peaked too early.

Back to the debate, is Ronaldo naturally talented or just a hard worker? Was he born or just made?

My thinking is that he has been moulded to be as he is. Don’t misunderstand me, he possess critical gifts that got him to where he is, but not naturally.
A perfect case in point is Lionel Messi, who is able to do things that boggle the mind. His presence on any football field reminds opponents that they are dealing with another kind of beast. He is difficult to shut down and has the presence of mind to let the game come to him, without forcing the issue.

This is the opposite of Ronaldo, who, I believe, forces the issue. His death on many a soccer field after almost all tackles, while still being able to deliver smacks of brilliance is the type of skill that I mean. Take the time out to think about what I’m saying, don’t knock it as I’m sure many a United fan will.

With that being said, congratulations to Ronaldo and may his domestic triumphs continue in the international environment, where they have been lacking. Salute.

M’hayise.

PSL title race hots up...big time!

Supersport United look hell bent on retaining the PSL title after delivering a bruising 1-0 beating to Orlando Pirates.

The general perception was that Gavin Hunt inherited a solid squad from Pitso Mosimane but it’s clear that Gavin is adding his own spices to a dish already filled with flavour, which is a great thing. Great minds do think alike and if Gavin is able to continue, if not better, the work that Pitso’s done, then big ups to him.

There is a 5 point difference between the top 3 teams with positive results being the order of the day on game day...

The slightest slip will work against all the teams in the top 3. If you include the next two teams, that would make the gap in the top 5 teams 7 points, with only an extra point’s difference separating the next two teams. It’s a mouthwatering prospect for the rest of the season.
Ajax got the 3 points they were looking for against Thanda Royal Zulu. Supersport spanked Pirates to maintain pressure on Ajax at the top. Golden Arrows direct from King Midas stabbed Santos 3 times over the weekend for another win for one of my dark horses of the PSL, keeping them in third.

Wits slipped against Bay United, allowing Chiefs to be tied with them on points, with goal difference the only separator. Swallows keep themselves in it by beating Maritzburg United.
The game of the weekend was indeed the Chiefs Sundowns affair.
Sundowns has been on my mind this whole season...Now, as an ardent Chiefs supporter I believe we’re allowed to have a terrible season, but we shouldn’t lose against Sundowns. The win must serve to humble a team with bundles of cash but limited talent. Old and tired, the Sundowns crew should cash in their chips and look to a season next time around. The game may have been boring but the win is what counts.

Although I have many opportunities to further discredit Sundowns, I’ll shy away from confrontation this time. All I know is defeat sucks and if a rival’s in pain, I don’t have to be harsh, I’ll just let the pain burn.

At the midway point of the season the biggest goal poachers in the league comprise a top goal scorer who is going to further his career overseas, Bernard Parker. This man has all the makings of a striker , hunger and desire. He has managed to find himself in the right place at the right time. Joel Santana made a stunning inclusion of this young man into Bafana and the hearts of many a South African supporter.

Mabhudi Khanyeza seems to be happier at Ajax and it shows in him being the 2nd highest scorer after Parker. No bafana call up for him though, maybe soon.
In closing, we will be monitoring the PSL and are looking forward to giving you the best of the news.

Peace,

M’hayise

Chelsea get a spanking from ever-consistent Man U

The build up to the hottest fixture of the new year has been subdued but visible through all the media.

I don’t have to talk about where my sympathies lie for this game. The theatre of dreams will no doubt be buzzing with excitement
Manchester has had their fair share of media mileage this week, what with the Ronaldo car crash monopolising headlines. It’s a tough ask for anyone to come back from a car accident, but that’s what you look for in a top class athlete, especially when there’s also been talk of him possibly going back home for a bit of home cooking or some love from mommy. Good luck to him.
The game had a tough seesaw start with an early booking for Frank Lampard who almost killed Ronaldo; that earned him a yellow card for Assault with Intent to do Grievous Bodily Harm. It’s been a heated affair in the early going with 3 yellow cards for Chelsea and 1 for Manchester, that went to you know who.

It’s been a physical affair with few chances early on, both teams managing to create chances, which is what you’d typically expect from this encounter. At the 45th minute there was a Ronaldo goal disallowed for some reason or other, I thought that was close. In typical nemisis fashion Manchester scored about 30 seconds later off the corner, Vidic responsible for the header from the corner. United had the better of Chelsea towards the end of the half.
The 2nd half started with Chelsea looking to make a go at equalising. United soaked all the pressure up while applying some of their own. The addition of Anelka for Deco didn’t do much to get Chelsea’s 1st goal. United just kept plugging away until Rooney struck in 62nd minute off a sweet cross from Evra to stick the knife further into Chelsea. Scolari is not looking good right now

On the Chelsea side, Drogba has had a terrible game. I don’t understand why he’s been in there more than 1 half; his performance has been terrible...just terrible! He had a PSL type attempt at goal the went out for a throw. I couldn’t believe it, but it’s fact today: he sucks. For the rest of the team, I think they ran out of steam. They haven’t been the better of the 2 teams.
The shot to the jugular came in from Berbatov in the 87th minute. Off the set piece struck by Ronaldo... the nail in the coffin. I think Chelsea were done a long time ago.

Manchester march on to within 1 point from Chelsea and 3rd on the log. Well done to United they very easily deserved the win and it showed, they played better and were hungrier.
I’m disappointed in Chelsea, abashayanga ngisho elokubika (Not even 1 goal to say that they were in the game).

Peace, M'hayise

186 days to the Confederation’s Cup...and I still haven’t got my tickets!

Ok guys, this is very serious. 186 days sounds like a long time right?! But I’ve just read that 54% of the Brazil-Italy match have already been snapped up (WTF??).

Now if you’re a red blooded, well-meaning, “big talk but delayed reaction” procrastinator like me, you’ll know that now is the time to get a move on.

Now, for the ladies out there, the Brazil/Italy match is the one to attend (although watching it on TV gives you better close-ups...mmm). It’s the perfect blend of talent and “talent” (with the Azzurri being a little more talented in certain areas)...

Seriously guys, let’s get a move on...here’s the schedule so you know which tickets to buy!

Tickets are available online on the FIFA website and I understand you can get them through FNB, although I couldnt find anything on their website!

See you there
MasB!

Group 1:South Africa, Iraq, New Zealand and Spain

Group 2:USA, Italy, Brazil and Egypt2009 Confederations Cup match schedule:

Match 1: South Africa vs Iraq Sunday 14 June 2009, 16h00 Ellis Park Stadium (Johannesburg)
Match 2: New Zealand vs Spain Sunday 14 June 2009, 20h30 Royal Bafokeng Stadium (Rustenburg)
Match 3: Brazil vs Egypt Monday 15 June 2009, 16h00 Free State Stadium (Bloemfontein)
Match 4: USA vs Italy Monday 15 June 2009, 20h30 Loftus Versfeld Stadium (Pretoria)
Match 5: Spain vs Iraq Wednesday 17 June 2009, 16h00 Free State Stadium
Match 6: South Africa vs New Zealand Wednesday 17 June 2009, 20h30 Royal Bafokeng Stadium
Match 7: USA vs Brazil Thursday 18 June 2009, 16h00 Loftus Versfeld Stadium
Match 8: Egypt vs Italy Thursday 18 June 2009, 20h30 Ellis Park Stadium
Match 9: Iraq vs New Zealand Saturday 20 June 2009, 20h30 Ellis Park Stadium
Match 10: South Africa vs Spain Saturday 20 June 2009, 20h30 Free State Stadium Match 11: Italy vs Brazil Sunday 21 June 2009, 20h30 Loftus Versfeld Stadium
Match 12: Egypt vs USA Sunday 21 June 2009, 20h30 Royal Bafokeng Stadium

Semi-final 1: 1st in Group A vs 2nd in Group B Wednesday 24 June 2009, 20h30 Free State Stadium
Semi-final 2: 1st in Group B vs 2nd in Group A Thursday 25 June 2009, 20h30 Ellis Park Stadium

Third-place play-off: Loser semi-final 1 vs loser semi-final 2 Sunday 28 June 2009, 15h00 Royal Bafokeng Stadium

Confederations Cup Final: Winner semi-final 1 vs winner semi-final 2 Sunday 28 June 2009, 20h30Ellis Park Stadium

Oh Christiano...Let’s hope the off-pitch drama won’t be a reflection of your performance on the field!

The news of the hour is the Christiano Ronaldo car crash.

Thankfully the midfielder wasn’t injured at all and was able to continue with his daily activities like going to training. He was lucky his teammate, Edwin Van Der Sar, was behind him, also on his way to their training session. They then travelled together to the session.

I think the saddest thing about the accident was that Ronaldo wrecked his Ferrari 599 GTB...worth over R2m. A write-off by most accounts, this work of motoring art will soon be a pile of rubble; so sad! Luckily for CR, the incident won’t do much to dent the depth of his pockets either, since I think the car costs less than a month’s salary – not sad at all. It’s all just a minor financial speed bump for the uber footballing hero.

We won’t even discuss his fleet of cars, which would make it seem like I’ve got it in for him, but he has a performance fleet estimated at R20m, which includes the Premierships poster car, the Bentley Continental GT.

My problem is the hoopla surrounding Ronaldo. He’s a talented athlete, but my goodness he’s being treated like some kind of super celeb (yes ladies I’m talking to you).
Now, the general consensus is that Ronaldo is a real drama king (general consensus, not my lone opinion)...so much so in fact that it’s amazing he didn’t roll out the car writhing in pain. On the football pitch he literally dies every time he gets tackled and is then miraculously resurrected a few seconds later.

I know Christiano is going through a rough time on the pitch this season, which seems to be manifesting itself off the pitch. Let’s hope he recovers soon, maybe at the end of the season (Ha, ha).

To be honest I think Ronaldo is going through what most footballers go through after reaching the top of their game: he’s struggling to reinvent himself.

The problem with that is you immediately fall into the radar of those below you: they want what you have achieved.
He was easily the best footballer in Europe last year...but staying on top isn’t easy. Many have failed to stay on top and Ronaldo is freefalling like many before him. I hope he’s got a good parachute. Good luck dude!

Peace,
M’hayise

2010 will be the biggest party Africa’s ever seen – don’t miss out!

Late last year, my day job gave me the opportunity to travel overseas to Europe. Whilst I was there, I met a couple of interesting people…including a number of British lads. True to stereotype, they loved their beer, football and were always up for a good laugh.

Being the ‘proudly SA’ citizen I am, I thought this is a wonderful opportunity to gather some hype for the upcoming World Cup back home (ok, I’ll be honest, I was wearing my enterprising hat and was trying to secure some tenants for my crib during the World Cup).
Anyway, much to my shock and dismay, not a single one of these blokes was even prepared to commit to coming to South Africa for the world cup. “What South Africa?…I don’t want to die!”.
I was like “What are you talking about? I’m alive aren’t I?” Clearly the fact that there were three South Africans (who actually live in South Africa) standing and breathing before their very eyes did little to allay their fears: don’t I know that people die when they go to South Africa?
Well, yes darling…but I’m not exactly asking you to go on safari in Gaza!!

On a serious note though, the tainted image South Africa has as a result of its crime rep is really worrying. Not to mention calls (by fans of the game) to boycott the tournament because of former president Thabo Mbeki’s pussy-footing approach to the Zim situation!
Could this really be the least supported World Cup in history? I refuse to believe so!
Yes South Africa has its challenges (like any and every other country) but I think what people need to understand is that there are more sane people in South Africa than the international media makes out. In fact, we probably outnumber the insane 10 to 1 and we’re actively working on improving this ratio – just like the rest of the world (the USA has realised that a good start to improving the ratio is implementing a top-down strategy).

So what am I saying here? Well, I don’t want to bore you with the PR that the official South African agencies are dishing out...so all I’m going to say is this: ordinary South Africans and Africans on the ground (like myself) are genuine, football-loving, passionate people who are looking forward to 2010 being the biggest multi-national party ever to hit our shores.
We are working harder than ever to prepare for this tournament...there’s the obvious building of stadia, the drilling and laying of an entire underground transport network etc...and then there’s the commitment of the ordinary folk on the ground: I’m putting off having a baby until after the World Cup for goodness sake! We’re serious about hosting the most fabulous World Cup ever and it pisses me off that negative elements are casting a shadow on this positive energy.
Africa is a football crazy land...and if you’ve never partied in Africa then you haven’t partied yet! You need to make it to the 2010 World Cup!

Of course, we can’t run away from the safety concerns and the trick is to do your research, make contacts and avoid the dodgy areas the same way you would avoid them back home.
If you’d like to make your first contact now, drop us a line on sportslifestyle@websurfer.co.za .

Whatever you do...don’t miss out...2010 is going to be a BIG WUN!!

Cheers
MasB...

Zooming in on the 2009 Champions League Menu

Soon it will be Champions League time! I’m salivating for the knockouts... so much so that I need to walk around with a napkin to manage the drooling. It’s exciting stuff I tell you…I see myself breaking out into the finest pop-locking routine every time I think about it. Allow me to run through the fixtures so I can paint a picture about what the prospects are.

I’ll go through these fixtures in order of importance to me.

Let’s start with Athletico Madrid & Porto.

This will most definitely be a tight affair. Although Porto seems a little weak after Quaresma left for Inter, I think they still have a little fight in them. To be honest, I’m looking for Athletico to go through.

The Bayern Munich Sporting Lisbon fixture is one that I’m a little indifferent about. Sporting plays some good football but I don’t think they have what it takes, especially when there is some real quality elsewhere on the fixture list. Bayern on the other are like an old war veteran: they have the heart of a soldier but lack the critical firepower needed to win the war. Bayern will go through but their old guard legs won’t take the punishment for much longer.
Villareal & Panathanikos is another fixture I’m not too concerned about, but because of the SA connection, I want them to win. There’s too much Spain in the quarters so that fat needs to be trimmed. I’m not knocking Villareal at all, they’re nice with theirs but somebody’s gotta lose….that’s all I’m saying.

Now that we’ve had starters, let’s jump straight into the main course.
I’ll start with the Lyon Barcelona affair.

I think that Lyon has a really good team, but with Barcelona looking like a red hot chilli pepper it’ll be hard to rock their boat. Maybe later in the competition but not now, especially when Messi is top goal scorer. Henry and Eto’o seem to be clicking now, “What more can I say”. I think Barca is in a good place, so good even Ben Arfa & Benzema don’t stand a chance.

Next we have the Premiership battles, firstly Inter & Man U. This battle is one of the tastiest of the season. Once again Mourinho and Fergie do the tango, Black Eyed Peas style baby. It’s going to be explosive, if only it could be a trilogy. This one could be classic. I want Inter to win, because United make me nauseas, sorta sea sick.

Liverpool-Real Madrid sees Rafa reconnect with the Spanish family he left behind. Real has been struggling domestically so the odds are they’ll be put out of their misery by The Reds. It wouldn’t be anything new for Liverpool as they done it in the past and are capable of doing it again. I would like to see Real win, because Liverpool isn’t hungry for this title… besides they need the premiership more. Real winning just means the starving will be invited to a carvery: an all you can eat buffet with Raul and Robben on the menu.

Chelsea & Juve could be another exciting match…but that said, it could still prove to be the more boring of the main course dishes. Both teams are very capable of playing tight football with the excitement factor at low levels simply because it’s time to focus. I don’t blame them, Chelsea have been beaten too many times when it counts and I’m sure they are looking to break the jinx. I think Chelsea should win because they’ve come close some many times: I’m a fair guy with the best of intentions.

The last match to dissect specifically talks to my bias... I’m a gunner and proud of it. Arsenal needs the Champions League. Domestically we suck against minnows but bring a big team anywhere near us and we do damage. The Champions League is perfect for us, the big stage where the youngsters can handle their business and prove to the ol’ timers that they’re actually soft. Roma will never stop tingling after the best of 8 they got from Man. U. A dangerous team but because they’re up against Arsenal, they’ll see stars.
It’s going to be too exciting on February 2nd. I’ll be glued to any media that is broadcasting the games.

I know we’re all going to enjoy that time, let’s do it responsibly.

Peace
M’hayise

Quick refresher...Who's kissed the cup in the past?

Year: 1930

Host: Uruguay

Winner: Uruguay

Year: 1934

Host: Italy

Winner: Italy

Year:1938

Host: France

Winner: Italy

Year: 1950

Host: Brazil

Winner: Uruguay

Year: 1954

Host: Switzerland

Winner: Germany

Year: 1958

Host: Sweden

Winner: Brazil

Year: 1962

Host: Chile

Winner: Brazil

Year: 1966

Host: England

Winner: England

Year: 1970

Host: Mexico

Winner: Brazil

Year: 1974

Host: Germany

Winner: Germany

Year: 1978

Host: Argentina

Winner: Argentina

Year: 1982

Host: Spain

Winner: Italy

Year: 1986

Host: Mexico

Winner: Argentina

Year: 1990

Host: Italy

Winner: Germany

Year: 1994

Host: US

Winner: Brazil

Year: 1998

Host: France

Winner: France

Year: 2002

Host: Japan/S Korea

Winner: Brazil

Year: 2006

Host: Germany

Winner: Italy

Year: 2010

Host: South Africa

Winner: ???

Premier League 2008 Roundup...through the barrel of gunner!

We’ve come to another end of an exciting year in the Premiership and we are already at the halfway stage. Teams are getting ready to continue to jockey for position and probably give the last final push for glory as we come close to the end of the season.
All the teams have played 20 games except for Manchester United. The Reds have 2 games in hand which could land them in 2nd place, with, at this stage Chelsea firmly in their sights. The defending champions cannot be underestimated. Being an Arsenal fan myself, I’m hoping for the worst for them, and every other team above us.

Liverpool is the only team above Arsenal that, I believe, needs another opportunity to get a championship.

They’ve always been a childhood favourite of mine, from the days of Kenny Dalglish, Ian Rush, John Barnes, Peter Beardsley, Bruce G. etc. I grew up on that brand of exciting football. The present day Liverpool doesn’t have that same excitement, but they do have what it takes to win. What they do have is the grit that allowed them to snatch the Champions League away from AC Milan’s clutches; that makes them loads of dangerous.
The difference is the Premiership has more games, meaning mental stamina has to be top shelf. Rafa has moulded this squad to play boring but efficient soccer, speed bumps on the quest to the title aside, it seems to be working. Good luck to Stevie and the boys.
(Excuse me but I didn’t think a little nostalgia ever hurt anyone).

Back to the league, Liverpool is 1st at the halfway point, with Chelsea in at a close 2nd. The Blues have struggled towards the end of the halfway point, but still maintain last season’s position. They’ve done very well whilst struggling with injuries to some of last season’s main starters. Obi Mikel has been solid in Michael Essien’s place. The find for me has been Nicolas Anelka, who was thrown into the deep end last season but has put it all behind him this season. He leads the league in scoring and is giving Drogba a tough time.
United are in at 3rd, with 2 games to play, with Villa keeping them company at 4th, playing good football, also looking to upset the Fantastic 4.

The thing about United is they never suck. They are always a brilliant team, which bothers me.

Maybe that’s why there aren’t many black players on the team; nobody’s taking a day off. Even when they don’t win the league, they lose by the tiniest of margins; phew for everyone that wins.
They are the ultimate nemesis; footballs Dr. Doom and they cannot be killed. As a super villain you regroup when you lose and come back stronger and wiser, United has that strategy in its DNA. I think the statistic is, Manchester have won the premiership 11 times in the last 16 years. That’s major in anybody’s language.

...and now for the part that makes me cringe (almost):

I have to talk about Arsenal. Undoubtedly the team with the most potential in the league and they have the worst temperament.

The problem is Arsenal can implode at any second and they still have the ability to flip the switch to deliver a truly crushing blow for victory...And that’s the problem with youth: it gets moody at the wrong time, without considering the actual goal and focusing on attaining it.
No matter how talented, youth must express itself, no timing required. Their soccer is the most exciting in the premiership, (it doesn’t hurt to admit it), but it’s like the weather, you can’t be too sure. That scares me; makes me concede the league for another year to a more worthy champion (As long as it’s not Manchester, I’m happy)
The rest of the league is spread out with not much separating the bottom 16.

The one surprise for me is Hull City. They have scrotums the size of a double-decker bus and a heavy dose of heart.

They are looking to get another season in the premiership and they’ve done a great job so far. Giant tamers of the league zoo, teams know to bring their A games when Hull’s around.
That’s been a summary of the league at halfway. The year in the premiership will be scrutinised and a brief summary will outline the year that’s been.

Until then,
M’hayise