Monday, November 30, 2009
Man Of The Year
Nike Tiempo 94
Nike dropped a limited edition boot to commemorate their launch of the Tiempo Series back in 1994.
The limited-edition, limited-distribution Nike Tiempo 94 Men's Football Boot celebrates the heritage of the Nike Tiempo and Paolo Maldini, the player who first wore the boot and made it legendary in the 1994 world championship football tournament in the US.
This new edition features the latest innovations to make it a lighter, tougher boot.
Only 2,500 pairs are available in Europe through select retailers.
I can't believe it's been 15 years. Crazy how time flies!
The Next Drogba?
I love how the media is always trying to label someone as the "next (fill in whatever name you want here)." Apparently, the Daily Mail have found the next Didier Drogba. Anderlecht striker, Romelu Lukaku is a big boy, and he may well be the next Drogba, but he's still only 16 years old. So keep an eye out for this kid since Chelsea and the rest of the We Buy Everyone We Can crowd seem to want him now. Check out the footage of the youngster.
At least I know who I'm trying to buy on the cheap in FIFA 10.
Seatte Sounders FC on the BBC
Do You Remember Night Trap?
I got into a conversation with a guy at work today about all kinds of old school video games. He couldn't remember the name, but he went on to tell me about a game with cameras and girls. Well, I most definitely remembered that game...Night Trap. It was revolutionary and pretty much started the whole ESRB rating system for video games. It also starred the late, Dana Plato from Diff'rent Strokes. Good times.
FC Dallas Season In Review
Here are all the goals from FC Dallas during 2009.
Sunday, November 29, 2009
Barcelona vs Real Madrid Highlights
Charlie Davies & Onyewu Rehabilitation
The FC Sochaux website is reporting that Charlie Davies is in Delaware rehabilitating with USMNT teammate Oguchi Onyewu. Hit this link to see a get well video Sochaux made for Charlie.
Thursday, November 26, 2009
HAPPY THANKSGIVING!
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
Philly Union Expansion Draft Picks
I'm left scratching my head on a few of these. Definitely not the guys that I would have taken, but I'm not Polish like Nowak. I'll post later my 10 selections but for now I give you the first official players for the Philadelphia Union.
MF Andrew Jacobson (D.C. United) age 24
F Alejandro Moreno (Columbus) 30
D Shavar Thomas (Chivas USA) 28
GK Brad Knighton (New England) 24
F Nick Zimmerman (New York) 22
F Sebastien Le Toux (Seattle) 25
MF Shea Salinas (San Jose) 23
MF Stefani Miglioranzi (Los Angeles) 32
D Dave Myrie (Chicago) 21
D Jordan Harvey (Colorado) 25
MLS Cup Weekend
(Harkes in the back seat of Sterlinho's ride)
In meeting all the "soccer celebs," I got to hangout with a guy named Simon Evans who works for Reuters. He's a pretty interesting fellow, who had some great ideas and thoughts on our writing and our site. We also seemed to connect well since we're both from Miami, Florida. Here's a link to Simon's latest entry for Reuters.
Another guy who I thought was awesome was Bruce McGuire who has a site called du nord futbol. Bruce had some of the best advice for us and was so great in letting me pick his brain. You can follow Bruce's stuff by clicking here.
The most interesting part of our night was giving a lost John Harkes and a friend of his a ride back to their hotel. It was a pretty fun ride, as Harksey was incredibly lost and if we didn't pick him up it would have been really bad for him. Harkes is one of the nicest blokes you'll ever meet, funny as hell and just down to earth. It was a perfect ending to a perfect night. Kell's you out did yourself and Thanks for a great weekend Seattle.
Too Far?
Old School CR7
Ninja Assassin
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
Scenes From MLS Cup Weekend In Seattle
In the last video, you can see Adam Spangler of This Is American Soccer take a photo of the scuba diver. He's a cool guy; you should definitely read his stuff.
MLS Final Kick - The Final Kick
I'm guessing this will be the last Final Kick we see until March 2010.
*They make a mistake in the video calling Andy Williams, Robbie Findley. What do you expect from the same guys that got his wife wrong too?
Mourinho vs Guardiola
More News For Your Tuesday
Yesterday when I talked about David Beckham having asthma, I thought I just missed it somewhere along the years. Apparently, it's making headlines in England too. I also ran across this article written before MLS Cup about the 10 things we've learned from David's time in MLS. It's definitely worth the read.
Darren Fletcher has opened his mouth...and I still don't like him. First, he talks about how much of a hack he is, and then he complains about to play defense for Ronaldo. Dude, you're a defensive midfielder. Get over it! You'll never be the creative, attacking player that gets the big pay day...and the girls. Of course you probably don't carry a Murse either.
Monday, November 23, 2009
News From This Weekend
I admit it. I'm a slacker. I was too busy living it up during MLS Cup weekend that I didn't get around to giving you all the juicy footy news you crave. So instead of reinventing the wheel, I'm giving you links to the news that you need to know.
You probably already know this, but Real Salt Lake are the 2009 MLS Champions.
Wednesday is the expansion draft for the Philadelphia Union. Each team's protected players list came out today and here are the players left unprotected.
MLS announced the Generation Adidas graduates.
The USL Breakaway teams are forming the NASL...minus the Sounders and Earthquakes. But what about the Cosmos?
Long time DC United midfielder, Ben Olsen is retiring.
Jermaine Defoe and Tottenham went off on Wigan to the tune of 9-1, causing the Wigan players to refund the ticket prices to the fans. You can see the highlights here.
Did you know that David Beckham has asthma? I didn't.
Apparently, Freddie Ljungberg is a fan of Hawaii, but not MLS pitches.
I attended the MLS Supporters Summit on Saturday where Commissioner Garber discussed expansion, naming Montreal and David Beckham's option to own a future team as teams number 19 and 20 to round out the league.
I ran into Preki on Sunday, who happens to be the new coach for Toronto FC.
Oh Danny Boy and I definitely had some adventures and made some good connections to make this blog even better in the future. Stay tuned for more tales from MLS Cup 2009.
Friday, November 20, 2009
Hearing Damage
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
Press Pass MLS Cup Preview
The Cup Has Arrived!
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Conquered by Othello & The Hypknotics
Monday, November 16, 2009
Landon Donovan, United Against Malaria
Sunday, November 15, 2009
Tom Hanks and Steven Spielberg do it again...
MLS Eastern Conference Final Highlights
I remember telling White Kix that the Sounders needed to end their season so that they could end up as the wild card seed in the East. I just had a feeling...so Real Salt Lake ends up as the Eastern Conference Champion as they beat the Chicago Fire in a penalty shoot out. I feel kind of torn on this one. I like the guys on RSL, especially Andy Williams, Nick Rimando, Robbie Findley, Raphael Cox and Clint Mathis, but Chicago being in the final with Blanco and McBride would have been better for the media aspect. I personally thought the best final from the league's perspective would have been the LA Galaxy against the home side Seattle Sounders. That would have been a media circus in my opinion.
Saturday, November 14, 2009
Ohio State's Game Winning Field Goal Kicker
I ran across this story a while ago but didn't think much of it until today. I ran across the overtime between Ohio State and Iowa in American Gridiron Football. The "brand new" field goal kicker for Ohio State is 26 year old Devin Barclay. If that name rings a bell, it should. Barclay was a former Project 40 player that signed with MLS straight out of high school. So here's to Devin, taking advantage of the P-40 money by going to school and making a name for himself in the process.
Jordan vs Bird: The Soccer Edition
Brasil Goal vs England
MLS Western Conference Final Highlights
Friday, November 13, 2009
Blackout During The Western Conference Final
The lights went out around the 16th to the 18th minute at the Home Depot Center. It caused a delay for 18 minutes and 14seconds. According to SoccerByIves, the entire city of Carson, CA lost power. At one point, ESPN showed the Don on his cell phone. I wouldn't want to be the guy on the other end of that phone call.
Eventually the lights came back on and the Galaxy had the better run of play during the rest of the first half.
SICK NASTY!
Freestyle Fridays
"We just made a hit baby!"
Are You Ready?
World Cup Playoffs Review
The Moment You Train For
Lassana Diarra is used to defying the odds. Not the tallest, the largest or the strongest, hes carved a role for himself in Les Blues midfield, from sheer determination and committed training.
Every second of his preparation will be tested, if he gets his chance to show what he can do against the Irish. Theres a spot in South Africa at stake.
Watch the video to see Lassana in training.
FIFA 10 Goal Of The Week Competition
The Four R's
Becoming the complete player means nailing the four Rs Receiving the ball, Releasing the ball, Retaining the ball and Running with the ball.
Kicking And Screaming 2
Thursday, November 12, 2009
Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time
Adios SeƱor Preki
LOS ANGELES, Nov 12 (Reuters) - Coach Predrag ‘Preki’ Radosavljevic parted company with the Los Angeles-based Chivas USA on Thursday, with a statement from the Major League Soccer club saying the decision was mutual.
Known simply as ‘Preki’, the former Everton and Portsmouth winger joined Chivas in 2006 as Bob Bradley’s assistant. He took full charge in 2007 when Bradley became the U.S national coach.
The former U.S international was the MLS coach of the Year in 2007 and reached the playoffs in each of his three seasons in charge. Chivas lost to local rivals the L.A Galaxy in this season’s Western Conference semi-finals.
MLS News
The Eastern Conference Final is on Saturday night on Fox Soccer Channel with the Chicago Fire hosting Real Salt Lake.
And this goes out to our boy, Marty, since Austin Washington is his boy.
And while you're not watching footy this weekend, how about some golf?
Argentina National Team Jersey
The New German Jersey
To me, it looks like the advertising guys were big fans of the GI Joe: The Rise of Cobra movie. I mean, Michael Ballack turned into Stormshadow.
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
This Can't Be True by Cas Metah
Clash of the Titans
U.S. roster set for Slovakia friendly.
Goalkeepers: Brad Guzan (Aston Villa, England), Marcus Hahnemann (Wolverhampton, England), Troy Perkins (Valerenga, Norway)
Defenders: Carlos Bocanegra (Rennes, France), Jonathan Bornstein (Chivas USA), Steve Cherundolo (Hannover, Germany), Jimmy Conrad (Kansas City), Clarence Goodson (IK Start, Norway), Frankie Hejduk (Columbus), Chad Marshall (Columbus), Heath Pearce (Dallas), Jonathan Spector (West Ham, England)
Midfielders: Michael Bradley (Borussia Moenchengladbach, Germany), Clint Dempsey (Fulham, England), Benny Feilhaber (Aarhus, Denmark), Sacha Kljestan (Chivas USA), Dax McCarty (Dallas), Robbie Rogers (Columbus)
Forwards: Jozy Altidore (Hull, England), Conor Casey (Colorado), Jeff Cunningham (Dallas, England), Eddie Johnson (Fulham).
A couple of surprises in this line up (see names in red). I know Some selections were made because many players are still in MLS playoffs. Torres and Castillo were not selected as they are needed by their clubs in Mexico and playing for their playoff lives. With that being said, is this the best roster? One name I will drop to my surprise is Jeff Cunningham, I think it's interesting, yet understandable since he did lead the league in goals. I just have to wonder, with all the rumors and stories of him being a cancer to teams... Is this guy the right choice? Is BB really thinking about adding him to the S. Africa roster? I know every player deserves a chance (or 2 or 3 or 4) to prove themselves, but let's just hope Jeff takes this moment to look at himself and think country first, enough with my BS and just play for the good of the team. As for Eddie Johnson, he needs shows that he has learned from his experience overseas and has worked past his demons, I really really really want to see him at his best again. I've always been an EJ fan and if he comes out on top, what a story that would be for him.
Also, is anyone confused by the Heath Pearce selection?... The last game I saw him play was against the Sounders and he got beat a lot, to the point where he made some pretty stupid tackles to stop play, where if he did that on the world stage he'd be done for sure. I know we need left backs, but I think this is a down grade. Anyway, let me know if you are surprised by any selections or if you are surprised by some omitions. One things for certain, Sterlinho has got to be jazzed up by Jeff Cunningham. He's always been the biggest advocate for J.C. and if anyone gets Ster started on it he will always go off on the subject.
Match will be played Saturday Nov. 14th 10:00am (Eastern) on Fox Soccer Channel.
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
RIP - Robert Enke
German Goalkeeper Robert Enke died Tuesday after being hit by a train. The police have confirmed that it was suicide. Enke was in line to compete for Germany's starting shot stopper at this summer's World Cup. Our hearts and prayers go out to his wife and adopted daughter.
Modern Warfare 2 Review
And a kill montage for your viewing pleasure.
Charlie out of hospital.
The 23-year-old forward was a passenger in a vehicle that crashed on a parkway in suburban Washington, where the US squad stayed ahead of a 2-2 draw with Costa Rica after a qualifying victory in Honduras had secured a Cup berth.
Davies, who plays for French club Sochaux, will work with the medical staff of the US national team in his rehabilitation after suffering a broken right tibia and femur, lacerated bladder, broken left elbow and facial fractures.
"Charlie faces a long recovery," said James DeBritz, Washington Hospital Center's orthopedic trauma director. "It will take time and extensive physical therapy for his bones and soft tissue to heal.
"His overall health, age and positive attitude should help him to have a good outcome."
A passenger in the car, Ashley Roberta, 22, was killed in the one-car wreck. The driver, who has not been identified, was also hospitalized in the incident, which is still under investigation by US Park Police.
Davies, who scored three goals in 13 matches this year as a regular starter, is expected to need between six and 12 months to recover, all-but ensuring he will not play in the 2010 World Cup finals next June in South Africa.
"I would like to take the time to thank everyone who has dealt with me for really putting in the time to help me get better as a person and as an athlete," Davies said in a statement.
"I continue to improve every day and I look forward to getting back on my feet and attacking rehabilitation.
"Thank you for everyone's support. It really means a lot to me."
Millwall Fans Unite
FIFA 10 on Wii
I still don't get how a console that is a generation behind sells units or games.
More Playoff Post Game Reactions
From the LA Galaxy Front Office
Monday, November 9, 2009
Chick Fights
Behind The Scenes: RSL vs Crew
Watch RSL's huge comeback in the second leg of their Eastern Conference Semi-Final series vs. the Columbus Crew at Crew Stadium, from a slightly different perspective...
SuperClasico Post Game Reactions
Columbus, Ohio: More Than Just The Crew
Sunday, November 8, 2009
Soccer Sunday!
I'm getting ready to settle in for a full day of the MLS Playoffs. The Sounders and Dynamo kick off in 10 minutes and then I'll be watching the SuperClasico of the year to finish things off. Here are a couple of notes for today:
Freddie Ljungberg thinks the Houston pitch is an, "absolute disgrace!"
Houston COO, Chris Canetti, wants to remind the American soccer community that the Dynamo get great support.
The other white guy from England is also enjoying his time in the U.S.
Former USL Sounder, Maykel Galindo, is feeling good and could be the guy to carry Chivas USA past the Galaxy. Hey! I used to play with that guy.
Enjoy all the MLS Playoff action today, and if you need your European highlight fix, you can catch it all here.
Fire vs Revolution Highlights
I guess not having the away goal rule made this game a little more interesting. My goal of the year vote goes to Nyarko and Blanco for the series winner. An absolute massive goal!
From The Stands: Fire vs Revs
Friday, November 6, 2009
Freestyle Fridays
Random News For Your Friday
David Beckham can now join fellow Brit, Liam Neeson, in saying, "America's been very very good to me".
Elizabeth Lambert, The Female Vinnie Jones has been suspended indefinitely.
Chelsea are looking into selling the naming rights for Stamford Bridge.
Xabi misses his friend.
Don't miss the SuperClasico this Sunday.
Former MLS All-Star, and Mexican National Team veteran, Jorge Campos may be the new Technical Director at FC Dallas.
I heard the MTV Europe Video Awards were pretty cool. I looked, but I couldn't find the outfit.
Sounders FC Commercial
Behind The Scenes - U.S. At Honduras
MLS Extra Time
Real Salt Lake vs Columbus Crew Highlights
Well that screwed up my bracket. Congrats to Real Salt Lake for knocking off the defending champions. Last year they were in the Western Conference Final, this year they're in the Eastern Conference Final.
The Female Vinnie Jones
Thursday, November 5, 2009
Deja Vu
For the second year in a row, the wild card team knocked out the defending champion in the first round of the MLS playoffs. On a side note, Andy Williams called his goal on Facebook.
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
Don't call it a comeback!
Zach Thornton has won the 2009 MLS Goal Keeper of the Year, his 2nd of his career (1998). I remember when Zach arrived to Chivas... I really didn't care for it, thought his days were numbered, and that he was washed up. What a year and what a comeback! I stand corrected and humbly acknowledge that you are the man. The beast is back!
What do you think of the winner, do you think he deserves it? Did you feel someone else should have received the award? Tough choice with Donovan Ricketts (LA Galaxy) and Kasey Keller (Seattle Sounders) as company... All I am saying is no one saw this! He truly surprised everyone and his numbers don't lie: 0.87 goals-against average, 12 shutouts and 23 goals in 27 games.
Real-ly hurting
MADRID (AP)—Real Madrid says Cristiano Ronaldo’s ankle injury has not improved.
The Portugal forward, who has been sidelined by a right ankle injury for nearly one month, had a medical review Wednesday that showed no progress.
The Spanish club says that Ronaldo cannot train with the team and will continue treatment.
Madrid had been hopeful that the 24-year-old winger would be available for Saturday’s derby against Atletico Madrid. Madrid trails Spanish leader Barcelona by one point after nine games.
Ronaldo has scored nine goals in seven games since his move from Manchester United, with Madrid winning each game he’s played.
The African Age Scandal
Fortune Chukwudi (R) and Ramon Azeez (L) of Nigeria and Antony Lozano of Honduras battle for the ball during the FIFA U17 World Cup Group A match between Nigeria and Honduras at the Abuja National Stadium on October 27, 2009 in Abuja, Nigeria.
(October 26, 2009 - Photo by Joern Pollex - FIFA/FIFA)
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
The Worst FIFA Trailer Ever?
Now, this isn't my style of music at all so it makes me a bit biased. But why drop this after Halloween when you have skeletons knocking around skulls? Let's go to EA for the answer:
Cut to the awesome Ladytron remix of Skeleton Dance by Children Collide now available exclusively with EA SPORTS™ FIFA 10 on PlayStation® here's a special remix video created in true Skeleton Dance style. Check out the action now, with a first look at this hot new clip! For more info visit FIFA.EASPORTS.com
Ok, it makes sense now. This crap is on PlayStation®!
Ronaldo and Bar-B-Q's?
According to this article, CR9 is teaming up with Michael Jackson's dad to sell soccer based Bar-B-Q's for next summer's World Cup. Dude, I understand you want to conquer America, but I'm just not sure who's going to buy a Bar-B-Q that's endorsed by a guy that carries a man bag.