Wednesday July 25, 07
Iraq P 0 - 0 P Korea Republic
Japan 2 - 3 Saudi Arabia
Iraq squeaks through on PK's (resulting in euphoria in the streets of Baghdad, unfortunately quickly turning to panic). Saudi Arabia comes with the big offense to knock off Japan. Saudi Arabia-Iraq in the finals.
Sunday July 29, 07
Iraq 14 : 35 Saudi Arabia
I've got to go with Saudi Arabia here, these are neighboring countries whose soccer histories go back a long way--and Saudi Arabia is generally the better team. I might've taken Iraq over Japan even though I think Japan is the better team simply because when shocking competitors like Iraq make it this far they usually ride the luck all the way to the end. But only if they're playing an unexpected opponent, not a neighbor. Go with Saudi Arabia over Iraq in the finals.
Thursday, July 26, 2007
Tuesday, July 24, 2007
How radioactive is Mike Vick right now?
When a big celebrity is involved in some crisis for all the world to see the first outcome is usually an ABC Movie of the Week. But how do you set up the narrative and take an audience inside the seamy underbelly of dog fighting? You can't. It just ain't happening.
Think about it: what if Vick killed somebody? Or turned out to be a major drug dealer? Or was into child pornography? Could they make a TV movie out of those subjects? Oh, hell yeah they could! But not dogfighting, the action is utterly repellant and there are no good guys, no heroes. Everyone is a villain and the victims are the dogs, not much room for a sappy love story in there. When you're too taboo for network prurience then you're out there on an island all by yourself. Good god, even R. Kelly is back in the mainstream! And Kobe Bryant, Martha Stewart, Marv Albert, Henry Blodgett, Dick Morris, Ray Lewis, etc.
And at this point even if he's completely cleared--even if this is all some crazy witchhunt and he gets out of it 100% innocent!--he's never going to be the star he was. This is Fatty Arbuckle territory here.
Think about it: what if Vick killed somebody? Or turned out to be a major drug dealer? Or was into child pornography? Could they make a TV movie out of those subjects? Oh, hell yeah they could! But not dogfighting, the action is utterly repellant and there are no good guys, no heroes. Everyone is a villain and the victims are the dogs, not much room for a sappy love story in there. When you're too taboo for network prurience then you're out there on an island all by yourself. Good god, even R. Kelly is back in the mainstream! And Kobe Bryant, Martha Stewart, Marv Albert, Henry Blodgett, Dick Morris, Ray Lewis, etc.
And at this point even if he's completely cleared--even if this is all some crazy witchhunt and he gets out of it 100% innocent!--he's never going to be the star he was. This is Fatty Arbuckle territory here.
Monday, July 23, 2007
Tour de France update
OVERALL STANDING BY POINTS
Result after stage 15
Total distance covered: 196 km
RASMUSSEN Michael 69h 52' 14"
CONTADOR Alberto 69h 54' 37" + 02' 23"
EVANS Cadel 69h 56' 14" + 04' 00"
LEIPHEIMER Levi 69h 57' 39" + 05' 25"
KLÖDEN Andréas 69h 57' 48" + 05' 34"
SASTRE Carlos 69h 59' 00" + 06' 46"
ZUBELDIA Haimar 69h 59' 41" + 07' 27"
KASHECHKIN Andrey 70h 00' 08" + 07' 54"
KIRCHEN Kim 70h 00' 38" + 08' 24"
ASTARLOZA Mikel 70h 01' 35" + 09' 21"
Result after stage 15
Total distance covered: 196 km
RASMUSSEN Michael 69h 52' 14"
CONTADOR Alberto 69h 54' 37" + 02' 23"
EVANS Cadel 69h 56' 14" + 04' 00"
LEIPHEIMER Levi 69h 57' 39" + 05' 25"
KLÖDEN Andréas 69h 57' 48" + 05' 34"
SASTRE Carlos 69h 59' 00" + 06' 46"
ZUBELDIA Haimar 69h 59' 41" + 07' 27"
KASHECHKIN Andrey 70h 00' 08" + 07' 54"
KIRCHEN Kim 70h 00' 38" + 08' 24"
ASTARLOZA Mikel 70h 01' 35" + 09' 21"
Asian Cup update
Saturday July 21, 07
Japan P 1 - 1 P Australia
Iraq 2 - 0 Vietnam
Sunday July 22, 07
Iran P 0 - 0 P Korea Republic
Saudi Arabia 2 - 1 Uzbekistan
Japan ousts Australia on PKs. Iraq continues their surprise run on into the semi-finals. South Korea, the up and comer, takes out Iran, a traditional central Asian power. Saudi Arabia dispatches an out-manned Uzbekistan.
Wednesday July 25, 07
Iraq 12 : 20 Korea Republic
Japan 15 : 20 Saudi Arabia
In tournaments like this, everybody loves the long shot. So I'm sticking with Iraq over South Korea. South Korea is a team on the rise but even rising teams can be overwhelmed by wild circumstances. Japan and Saudi Arabia have probably been the two strongest teams so far. I'll take Japan, I just have a little more faith in their flexibility and goalkeeping.
Japan P 1 - 1 P Australia
Iraq 2 - 0 Vietnam
Sunday July 22, 07
Iran P 0 - 0 P Korea Republic
Saudi Arabia 2 - 1 Uzbekistan
Japan ousts Australia on PKs. Iraq continues their surprise run on into the semi-finals. South Korea, the up and comer, takes out Iran, a traditional central Asian power. Saudi Arabia dispatches an out-manned Uzbekistan.
Wednesday July 25, 07
Iraq 12 : 20 Korea Republic
Japan 15 : 20 Saudi Arabia
In tournaments like this, everybody loves the long shot. So I'm sticking with Iraq over South Korea. South Korea is a team on the rise but even rising teams can be overwhelmed by wild circumstances. Japan and Saudi Arabia have probably been the two strongest teams so far. I'll take Japan, I just have a little more faith in their flexibility and goalkeeping.
U-20 World Cup Final
Argentina 2-1 Czech Republic
The first 45 minutes was frustrating to watch. These were two bullish teams trying to impose their style on each other, largely by fouling each non-stop. I thought the ref was a little too tight at first but ultimately did a pretty good job of not letting the game get out of hand. It was pretty amazing considering how many yellow cards that were doled out that there were no ejections and no penalties.
Czech jumped ahead around the 60th goal on a killer goal by Martin Fenin, who I thought was Czech's best up front player. Czech's D was solid on the backline but nobody stood out to me, they weren't terribly adept at moving the ball forward.
Sergio Arguero tied the game two minutes later, finishing a sweet pass from Ever Banega. Mauro Zarate scored off a corner kick (a bit of a soft goal, keeper probably should've kept it out) with about 5 minutes left to take the game for the Argentines. Arguero was the top scorer and overall MVP of the tourney and clearly one of Argentina's future stars. Banega to me was the star of the show for Argentina and will undoubtedly anchor their midfield in the next World Cup. Arguero and Maxi Moralez were good players for Argentina as was Sergio Romero, their goalie. The Argentines disappointed in the Copa America final last week but there was some redemption in this victory and it points to continued Argentine competitiveness well into the next World Cup cycle.
The first 45 minutes was frustrating to watch. These were two bullish teams trying to impose their style on each other, largely by fouling each non-stop. I thought the ref was a little too tight at first but ultimately did a pretty good job of not letting the game get out of hand. It was pretty amazing considering how many yellow cards that were doled out that there were no ejections and no penalties.
Czech jumped ahead around the 60th goal on a killer goal by Martin Fenin, who I thought was Czech's best up front player. Czech's D was solid on the backline but nobody stood out to me, they weren't terribly adept at moving the ball forward.
Sergio Arguero tied the game two minutes later, finishing a sweet pass from Ever Banega. Mauro Zarate scored off a corner kick (a bit of a soft goal, keeper probably should've kept it out) with about 5 minutes left to take the game for the Argentines. Arguero was the top scorer and overall MVP of the tourney and clearly one of Argentina's future stars. Banega to me was the star of the show for Argentina and will undoubtedly anchor their midfield in the next World Cup. Arguero and Maxi Moralez were good players for Argentina as was Sergio Romero, their goalie. The Argentines disappointed in the Copa America final last week but there was some redemption in this victory and it points to continued Argentine competitiveness well into the next World Cup cycle.
FIBA U-19 Championships
Oops, I meant to keep an eye on this but totally spaced it. USA beat Argentina and France on their way to the Finals but could not get past Serbia. 6 for 21 on 3-pointers probably sealed the USA's doom--why is it that in USA girls shoot better than boys now? France takes Brazil in the 3rd place game.
FIBA U-19 World Championship -- Serbia 74-69 USA
FIBA U-19 World Championship -- Serbia 74-69 USA
Friday, July 20, 2007
Tour de France update
RASMUSSEN Michael 57h 37' 10"
VALVERDE Alejandro 57h 39' 45" + 02' 35"
MAYO Iban 57h 39' 49" + 02' 39"
EVANS Cadel 57h 39' 51" + 02' 41"
CONTADOR Alberto 57h 40' 18" + 03' 08"
SASTRE Carlos 57h 40' 49" + 03' 39"
KLÖDEN Andréas 57h 41' 00" + 03' 50"
LEIPHEIMER Levi 57h 41' 03" + 03' 53"
KIRCHEN Kim 57h 42' 16" + 05' 06"
ASTARLOZA Mikel 57h 42' 30" + 05' 20"
VALVERDE Alejandro 57h 39' 45" + 02' 35"
MAYO Iban 57h 39' 49" + 02' 39"
EVANS Cadel 57h 39' 51" + 02' 41"
CONTADOR Alberto 57h 40' 18" + 03' 08"
SASTRE Carlos 57h 40' 49" + 03' 39"
KLÖDEN Andréas 57h 41' 00" + 03' 50"
LEIPHEIMER Levi 57h 41' 03" + 03' 53"
KIRCHEN Kim 57h 42' 16" + 05' 06"
ASTARLOZA Mikel 57h 42' 30" + 05' 20"
U-20 World Cup update
Sunday July 22, 07
Austria v. Chile (3rd place)
Argentina v. Czech
I'll take Austria in the 3rd place match. I'll stick with Argentina in the final.
Austria v. Chile (3rd place)
Argentina v. Czech
I'll take Austria in the 3rd place match. I'll stick with Argentina in the final.
British Open update
After 2 rounds it would appear to be all about Sergio's belly putter. If he can pull off the belly putter (can anyone truly pull off the belly putter?), then this looks like his best shot to actually win something. Everybody still thinks Tiger is coming back but I think he's a little too mellow at the moment (I'm already pencilling him into next year's green jacket). Phil Mickelson's out; dude, he needs an intervention or something. Keep an eye on Mike Weir, he's got discipline and a steady game that works on the tough courses like Carnoustie. Should be fun to watch Angel Cabrera; when America was on its course to rid the world of shame and logic, somehow or other cigarette smoking became the penultimate taboo, which makes Cabrera like Brando in The Wild One. My money's on KJ Choi, that guy is ice water and I think he'll stare down Sergio on Sunday.
GARCIA, Sergio 136
CHOI, KJ 138
JIMÉNEZ, Miguel Angel 139
WEIR, Mike 139
FURYK, Jim 140
WEEKLEY, Boo 140
ROMERO, Andres 141
CABRERA, Angel 141
WESTWOOD, Lee 141
FORSYTH, Alastair 141
GOOSEN, Retief 141
HENRY, J J 141
GARCIA, Sergio 136
CHOI, KJ 138
JIMÉNEZ, Miguel Angel 139
WEIR, Mike 139
FURYK, Jim 140
WEEKLEY, Boo 140
ROMERO, Andres 141
CABRERA, Angel 141
WESTWOOD, Lee 141
FORSYTH, Alastair 141
GOOSEN, Retief 141
HENRY, J J 141
Thursday, July 19, 2007
Asian Cup update
Saturday July 21, 07
Japan 12 : 20 Australia
Iraq 15 : 20 Vietnam
Sunday July 22, 07
Iran 12 : 20 Korea Republic
Saudi Arabia 15 : 20 Uzbekistan
I had a masterful Asian Cup update yesterday and with the errant stroke of a single button wiped it all out. So I lost my interest in going over the finalities of group play. And here we are with the quarters ready to blow this weekend. All right, prediction time!
I'll take surging Japan over slumping Australia, underachieving Vietnam over overachieving Iraq, South Korea over Iran and Saudi Arabia over Uzbekistan (the easiest call of the 4). We'll know by Monday.
Japan 12 : 20 Australia
Iraq 15 : 20 Vietnam
Sunday July 22, 07
Iran 12 : 20 Korea Republic
Saudi Arabia 15 : 20 Uzbekistan
I had a masterful Asian Cup update yesterday and with the errant stroke of a single button wiped it all out. So I lost my interest in going over the finalities of group play. And here we are with the quarters ready to blow this weekend. All right, prediction time!
I'll take surging Japan over slumping Australia, underachieving Vietnam over overachieving Iraq, South Korea over Iran and Saudi Arabia over Uzbekistan (the easiest call of the 4). We'll know by Monday.
Monday, July 16, 2007
Copa America conclusion
Brazil 3-0 Argentina
Argentina was my pre-Copa pick and while its never too surprising to see Brazil win on the pitch, I was a little surprised at how flat the Argentines looked for most of the championship match. When looking over the line-ups, I must admit that Robinho was the only Brazilian that I was familiar with while I knew virtually all of the Argentines. I figured Argentina was the favorite anyway but once Brazil showed up with its B team (though their C and D teams should be competitive with just about anyone in the world), I figured it was in the bag for Argentina.
But Brazil scored quickly (Baptista, 4'), a nice rip but the keeper should have had it--he made no play at all on the ball! Abbondanzieri was shaky all day. I thought the run of play was fairly even for the rest of the first half but an own goal (Ayala, 40')--tough play, it was a necessary defensive move that unfortunately got away from him--made the uphill climb that much tougher. In the second half the Argentines just did not respond to the challenge and went out looking pretty weak, I thought. Messi and Tevez, the two great up-and-coming attackers just flailed out there. Alves added another in the 69th minute just to cap it.
Like I said, Brazil winning a Copa America can't really ever be too shocking to anyone. But a 3-0 thrashing of the favorite and bitter rival Argentines is eye opening. Dunga's influence as coach may make Brazil a bit more of a tenacious defensive squad, which could make them very dangerous by 2010.
Mexico beat Urugay 3-1 in the 3rd place match. Didn't get to see any of it, so all I know is the score. I thought they were fairly evenly matched. A 37' minute penalty led to a red card and the tying goal for Mexico. Looks like the Mexicans made the most of their 1-man advantage in the 2nd half.
Argentina was my pre-Copa pick and while its never too surprising to see Brazil win on the pitch, I was a little surprised at how flat the Argentines looked for most of the championship match. When looking over the line-ups, I must admit that Robinho was the only Brazilian that I was familiar with while I knew virtually all of the Argentines. I figured Argentina was the favorite anyway but once Brazil showed up with its B team (though their C and D teams should be competitive with just about anyone in the world), I figured it was in the bag for Argentina.
But Brazil scored quickly (Baptista, 4'), a nice rip but the keeper should have had it--he made no play at all on the ball! Abbondanzieri was shaky all day. I thought the run of play was fairly even for the rest of the first half but an own goal (Ayala, 40')--tough play, it was a necessary defensive move that unfortunately got away from him--made the uphill climb that much tougher. In the second half the Argentines just did not respond to the challenge and went out looking pretty weak, I thought. Messi and Tevez, the two great up-and-coming attackers just flailed out there. Alves added another in the 69th minute just to cap it.
Like I said, Brazil winning a Copa America can't really ever be too shocking to anyone. But a 3-0 thrashing of the favorite and bitter rival Argentines is eye opening. Dunga's influence as coach may make Brazil a bit more of a tenacious defensive squad, which could make them very dangerous by 2010.
Mexico beat Urugay 3-1 in the 3rd place match. Didn't get to see any of it, so all I know is the score. I thought they were fairly evenly matched. A 37' minute penalty led to a red card and the tying goal for Mexico. Looks like the Mexicans made the most of their 1-man advantage in the 2nd half.
Saturday, July 14, 2007
Asian Cup update
Friday July 13, 07
Iraq 3 - 1 Australia
UAE 1 - 3 Japan
Damn! Iraq took it to Australia, that's a surprise. Australia probably fancies themselves as one of the favorites and no one expects Iraq to be good at…well, anything…at the moment. With a win and a draw Iraq is at the top of Group A with Thailand while Australia is struggling with Oman down at the bottom. The Japan-Vietnam match next week might decide who gets left behind in that group. UAE is officially eliminated from moving on.
Saturday July 14, 07
Uzbekistan 5 - 0 Malaysia
Saudi Arabia 2 - 1 Indonesia
Uzbekistan laid the wood to Malaysia, pretty much knocking them out of the next round.
Saudi Arabia is looking pretty good so far. Indonesia has South Korea up next, they're last chance to get it done.
Sunday July 15, 07
Bahrain 14 : 35 Korea Republic
China PR 12 : 20 Iran
China-Iran is an interesting match-up of two regional powers. Iran used to be the Middle Eastern power in soccer until the Ayatollah appeared in the late '70s and put the kibosh on anything that people might enjoy. Iran is only now starting to bring back that old time feeling. China has the largest population in the world--that alone should make them competitive but again we see the deleterious effects of repressive governments and broken economies. China has never been as good as they should be (like USA, where soccer is a victim of social repression rather than inept governance), and like their booming stock market, their soccer talent is only now starting to emerge. If Bahrain can pull off the upset they can still get back into this thing. But if Korea gets the W, they'll move on.
Iraq 3 - 1 Australia
UAE 1 - 3 Japan
Damn! Iraq took it to Australia, that's a surprise. Australia probably fancies themselves as one of the favorites and no one expects Iraq to be good at…well, anything…at the moment. With a win and a draw Iraq is at the top of Group A with Thailand while Australia is struggling with Oman down at the bottom. The Japan-Vietnam match next week might decide who gets left behind in that group. UAE is officially eliminated from moving on.
Saturday July 14, 07
Uzbekistan 5 - 0 Malaysia
Saudi Arabia 2 - 1 Indonesia
Uzbekistan laid the wood to Malaysia, pretty much knocking them out of the next round.
Saudi Arabia is looking pretty good so far. Indonesia has South Korea up next, they're last chance to get it done.
Sunday July 15, 07
Bahrain 14 : 35 Korea Republic
China PR 12 : 20 Iran
China-Iran is an interesting match-up of two regional powers. Iran used to be the Middle Eastern power in soccer until the Ayatollah appeared in the late '70s and put the kibosh on anything that people might enjoy. Iran is only now starting to bring back that old time feeling. China has the largest population in the world--that alone should make them competitive but again we see the deleterious effects of repressive governments and broken economies. China has never been as good as they should be (like USA, where soccer is a victim of social repression rather than inept governance), and like their booming stock market, their soccer talent is only now starting to emerge. If Bahrain can pull off the upset they can still get back into this thing. But if Korea gets the W, they'll move on.
Friday, July 13, 2007
U-20 World Cup
Thursday July 12, 07
Chile U20 1 - 0 Portugal U20
Mexico U20 3 - 0 Congo U20
Argentina U20 3 - 1 Poland U20
Zambia U20 1 - 2 Nigeria U20
I watched a fair amount of Mexico-Congo. I was reasonably impressed with Congo's skill on the ball and athleticism. The first goal was a penalty, good call, easy call. Mexico was okay, they'll be a tough out for Argentina but I'll stick with the Argentines.
Saturday July 14, 07
Spain U20 01 : 45 Czechia U20
Argentina U20 01 : 45 Mexico U20
Chile U20 20 : 15 Nigeria U20
Austria U20 20 : 15 USA U20
Prediction time: I'll take Czech to sandbag Spain, Argentina over Mexico, Nigeria over Chile and USA over Austria (time for Freddy to bounce back and have a big game).
Chile U20 1 - 0 Portugal U20
Mexico U20 3 - 0 Congo U20
Argentina U20 3 - 1 Poland U20
Zambia U20 1 - 2 Nigeria U20
I watched a fair amount of Mexico-Congo. I was reasonably impressed with Congo's skill on the ball and athleticism. The first goal was a penalty, good call, easy call. Mexico was okay, they'll be a tough out for Argentina but I'll stick with the Argentines.
Saturday July 14, 07
Spain U20 01 : 45 Czechia U20
Argentina U20 01 : 45 Mexico U20
Chile U20 20 : 15 Nigeria U20
Austria U20 20 : 15 USA U20
Prediction time: I'll take Czech to sandbag Spain, Argentina over Mexico, Nigeria over Chile and USA over Austria (time for Freddy to bounce back and have a big game).
Tour de France update
The day's winner
CANCELLARA F.CSC
Overall:
1. CANCELLARA Fabian 00:08:50
2. KLÖDEN Andréas 00:09:03 + 00:00:13
3. HINCAPIE George 00:09:13 + 00:00:23
4. WIGGINS Bradley 00:09:13 + 00:00:23
5. GUSEV Vladimir 00:09:15 + 00:00:25
6. KARPETS Vladimir 00:09:16 + 00:00:26
7. VINOKOUROV Alexandre 00:09:20 + 00:00:30
CANCELLARA F.CSC
Overall:
1. CANCELLARA Fabian 00:08:50
2. KLÖDEN Andréas 00:09:03 + 00:00:13
3. HINCAPIE George 00:09:13 + 00:00:23
4. WIGGINS Bradley 00:09:13 + 00:00:23
5. GUSEV Vladimir 00:09:15 + 00:00:25
6. KARPETS Vladimir 00:09:16 + 00:00:26
7. VINOKOUROV Alexandre 00:09:20 + 00:00:30
Thursday, July 12, 2007
Copa America update
Wednesday July 11, 07
Mexico 0 - 3 Argentina
Missed the game and the highlights but it looks like Argentina put the wood to the Mexicans. Not a huge surprise to me, Argentina is always strong and seeing them in the final against Brazil is not a shocker. In my pre-Copa predictions, I had Brazil, Argentina, Mexico and Chile (instead of Uruguay) in the final 4. This Copa has been reasonable predictable. I picked Argentina to begin with and I'll stick with them now. And I'll take Uruguay over Mexico in the 3rd place match.
Mexico 0 - 3 Argentina
Missed the game and the highlights but it looks like Argentina put the wood to the Mexicans. Not a huge surprise to me, Argentina is always strong and seeing them in the final against Brazil is not a shocker. In my pre-Copa predictions, I had Brazil, Argentina, Mexico and Chile (instead of Uruguay) in the final 4. This Copa has been reasonable predictable. I picked Argentina to begin with and I'll stick with them now. And I'll take Uruguay over Mexico in the 3rd place match.
U-20 World Cup update
Wednesday July 11, 07
USA U20 E 2 - 1 E Uruguay U20
Austria U20 2 - 1 Gambia U20
Japan U20 P 2 - 2 P Czechia U20
Spain U20 E 4 - 2 E Brazil U20
I TIVO'ed the USA-Uruguay game so, alas, I was unable to see the decisive overtime. I generally thought Uruguay had a better offense, confidently pushed the ball forward more than USA and had a coupla players that really impressed me (Surako, for example, had skills and smarts). USA shored up the D pretty well (Uruguay's goal was a nice one but came during a period of sleepy defense), but offensively Freddy Adu has got to get to the ball more often--you're not the best player on the field if you only touch the ball 10 times in a game, Freddy! I wish he was as sneaky on D as he is with the ball, there is the next stride he needs to make in his game. Right now he gets marked right out of the game, marvelous when he gets the ball but he doesn't get it nearly often enough and its his own fault (uh-oh, sounds a little like Landon Donovan). USA needs to play with more urgency--not panic--from the gitty instead of waiting for the chips to be down. Coming back and winning after what looked like a decisive Uruguay goal is nice but I would rather see them taking the initiative instead of finding themselves up against it.
I did catch the OT of Spain-Brazil and I gotta say Brazil really gave up at the end. That's Brazil, man, they either dominate or they stink up the joint. This is a very disappointing result for Brazil's junior squad. And it doesn't give a clear picture of how good Spain actually is.
And I caught the penalty kicks between Japan-Czech and I gotta say Japan's shots were all terrible--even the ones that went in! And Japan's goalie had a shot go right through his hands, that just can't happen in a shootout.
Didn't see any of Austria-Gambia. Austria scored more goals so I'm comfortable with calling them the better team.
USA U20 E 2 - 1 E Uruguay U20
Austria U20 2 - 1 Gambia U20
Japan U20 P 2 - 2 P Czechia U20
Spain U20 E 4 - 2 E Brazil U20
I TIVO'ed the USA-Uruguay game so, alas, I was unable to see the decisive overtime. I generally thought Uruguay had a better offense, confidently pushed the ball forward more than USA and had a coupla players that really impressed me (Surako, for example, had skills and smarts). USA shored up the D pretty well (Uruguay's goal was a nice one but came during a period of sleepy defense), but offensively Freddy Adu has got to get to the ball more often--you're not the best player on the field if you only touch the ball 10 times in a game, Freddy! I wish he was as sneaky on D as he is with the ball, there is the next stride he needs to make in his game. Right now he gets marked right out of the game, marvelous when he gets the ball but he doesn't get it nearly often enough and its his own fault (uh-oh, sounds a little like Landon Donovan). USA needs to play with more urgency--not panic--from the gitty instead of waiting for the chips to be down. Coming back and winning after what looked like a decisive Uruguay goal is nice but I would rather see them taking the initiative instead of finding themselves up against it.
I did catch the OT of Spain-Brazil and I gotta say Brazil really gave up at the end. That's Brazil, man, they either dominate or they stink up the joint. This is a very disappointing result for Brazil's junior squad. And it doesn't give a clear picture of how good Spain actually is.
And I caught the penalty kicks between Japan-Czech and I gotta say Japan's shots were all terrible--even the ones that went in! And Japan's goalie had a shot go right through his hands, that just can't happen in a shootout.
Didn't see any of Austria-Gambia. Austria scored more goals so I'm comfortable with calling them the better team.
Wednesday, July 11, 2007
Copa America update
Asian Cup update
Tuesday July 10, 07
Indonesia 2 - 1 Bahrain
Malaysia 1 - 5 China PR
Saw the highlights of that China match. All 5 goals were sweet and they looked strong.
Wednesday July 11, 07
Iran 2 - 1 Uzbekistan
Korea Republic 0 - 0 Saudi Arabia
Yup, today's games are already over. Today is yesterday in Asia.
Indonesia 2 - 1 Bahrain
Malaysia 1 - 5 China PR
Saw the highlights of that China match. All 5 goals were sweet and they looked strong.
Wednesday July 11, 07
Iran 2 - 1 Uzbekistan
Korea Republic 0 - 0 Saudi Arabia
Yup, today's games are already over. Today is yesterday in Asia.
Tour de France update
After 3 stages, here's the leaderboard.
CANCELLARA Fabian 00:08:50
KLÖDEN Andréas 00:09:03 + 00:00:13
HINCAPIE George 00:09:13 + 00:00:23
WIGGINS Bradley 00:09:13 + 00:00:23
GUSEV Vladimir 00:09:15 + 00:00:25
KARPETS Vladimir 00:09:16 + 00:00:26
VINOKOUROV Alexandre 00:09:20 + 00:00:30
CANCELLARA Fabian 00:08:50
KLÖDEN Andréas 00:09:03 + 00:00:13
HINCAPIE George 00:09:13 + 00:00:23
WIGGINS Bradley 00:09:13 + 00:00:23
GUSEV Vladimir 00:09:15 + 00:00:25
KARPETS Vladimir 00:09:16 + 00:00:26
VINOKOUROV Alexandre 00:09:20 + 00:00:30
Tuesday, July 10, 2007
Copa America update
Tuesday July 10, 07
Uruguay 02 : 50 Brazil
Uruguay has looked pretty strong in this tournament so far and while Brazil is always a possibility to win anything and everything, they're also a possibility to fritter away opportunities. I'm going with Uruguay tonight, they've got punch up front and tenacity in the back.
Wednesday July 11, 07
Mexico 02 : 50 Argentina
Argentina has more skill on the ball at probably every position than Mexico. Mexico jives well with these South American squads and they're certainly not a bad side but I've got to go with Argentina in this one. But in soccer when you get this far anything can happen so don't be shocked at anything.
Uruguay 02 : 50 Brazil
Uruguay has looked pretty strong in this tournament so far and while Brazil is always a possibility to win anything and everything, they're also a possibility to fritter away opportunities. I'm going with Uruguay tonight, they've got punch up front and tenacity in the back.
Wednesday July 11, 07
Mexico 02 : 50 Argentina
Argentina has more skill on the ball at probably every position than Mexico. Mexico jives well with these South American squads and they're certainly not a bad side but I've got to go with Argentina in this one. But in soccer when you get this far anything can happen so don't be shocked at anything.
U-20 World Cup update
Wednesday's matches:
Austria U20 01 : 00 Gambia U20
USA U20 01 : 45 Uruguay U20
Japan U20 05 : 15 Czechia U20
Spain U20 05 : 15 Brazil U20
These all look like potentially close match-ups. Come on, USA!
Thursday's matches:
Chile U20 01 : 45 Portugal U20
Mexico U20 01 : 45 Congo U20
Argentina U20 22 : 45 Poland U20
Zambia U20 22 : 45 Nigeria U20
Argentina and Mexico are the only two I'm comfortable with as clear favorites. The other 2 are toss-ups to me.
Austria U20 01 : 00 Gambia U20
USA U20 01 : 45 Uruguay U20
Japan U20 05 : 15 Czechia U20
Spain U20 05 : 15 Brazil U20
These all look like potentially close match-ups. Come on, USA!
Thursday's matches:
Chile U20 01 : 45 Portugal U20
Mexico U20 01 : 45 Congo U20
Argentina U20 22 : 45 Poland U20
Zambia U20 22 : 45 Nigeria U20
Argentina and Mexico are the only two I'm comfortable with as clear favorites. The other 2 are toss-ups to me.
Monday, July 9, 2007
Sunday, July 8, 2007
Wimbledon Finals
Federer over Nadal was one of the finest tennis matches I've ever seen. Nadal looked spry early on pushing Federer to the 1st set tiebreak, a weakness of Federer's. But Federer held on nicely only to be broken early in the 2nd set. Nadal squeezed him dry and pushed Federer to a 3rd set tiebreak. I thought Federer had him after that 3rd set. I was pretty shocked when Nadal broke him again in the 4th and then again and it looked like we really had the makings of a classic. Then Nadal had knee troubles in the 4th but I thought it was more his mind than his knee. Contrary to McEnroe's supposition that he was looking free quick points, I kept looking for Nadal to get into long rallies, to run and play on that knee to get some confidence in it. Look, man, he's up 2 breaks in the 4th in the Wimbledon Finals, he's got to play through whatever pain he's feeling. Nadal almost had Federer early but Federer composed himself and pulled ahead like a champion in the 5th, cementing his dominance at Wimbledon by exposing a hint of vulnerability and then playing right past it.
This was totally captivating tennis from beginning to end, they dueled back and forth like the old days. I look forward to seeing these 2 again in the French and Wimbledon next year.
This was totally captivating tennis from beginning to end, they dueled back and forth like the old days. I look forward to seeing these 2 again in the French and Wimbledon next year.
Breaking out the anointing oils
The best soccer player America has ever produced is Freddy Adu and he's 18 years old. When he touched the ball (which wasn't nearly often enough), the Brazilians quivered for he was their equal. (The Brazilians were all fine but the only one that struck me was the dude up front, Jo. A big dude with good skill on the ball and a cannon shot--keep an eye on that guy) He changes the other team's D, he changes their counterattack even without the ball. And it only gets better from here. The great players raise the level of everyone around them. Freddy is the godsend that USA soccer has been waiting for. Americans, now you have a reason to watch soccer. And don't worry--you won't have to follow another regular season pro league, he'll be in Europe anyway. You only have to watch when he's wearing USA on his chest which will be a precious handful of times each year. This U-20 World Cup will be his swansong on the JV circuit, he'll be a starter on the varsity team from here on out and that is a good, good thing.
Basketball fans, I implore you to encourage your pro stars to go international. All the complaints Carmelo Anthony had to endure because people out there expect him to stay true to the Denver Nuggets. Yeah, man, who'd want to represent his nation in the greatest game on earth when he's all got that sweet Nugget action waiting for him 82 times a year? Michael Redd should prefer being a Milwaukee Buck to being an American? The international game is a totally new game, one that is every bit as compelling as the home league. And, if we fuck around we'll turn into the England of basketball instead of the Brazil. (Okay, basketballers won't understand that but the footballers will)
Basketball fans, I implore you to encourage your pro stars to go international. All the complaints Carmelo Anthony had to endure because people out there expect him to stay true to the Denver Nuggets. Yeah, man, who'd want to represent his nation in the greatest game on earth when he's all got that sweet Nugget action waiting for him 82 times a year? Michael Redd should prefer being a Milwaukee Buck to being an American? The international game is a totally new game, one that is every bit as compelling as the home league. And, if we fuck around we'll turn into the England of basketball instead of the Brazil. (Okay, basketballers won't understand that but the footballers will)
Wimbledon Ladies
Felt kind of bad for Marion Bartoli. It's always a little creepy to watch a career peak right in front of you. And no matter how many nice returns she made, how tough she was on her serve, no matter what she did she just couldn't get away from Venus. Even when she was in control, running Venus back and forth across the baseline, she couldn't put it away--she just couldn't get the freakin' ball past her! Venus always reminded me of Patrick Ewing in the way she uncurls herself to play, she's all knees and elbows out there. She dominates the court like no one I've ever seen. More than Steffi or Serena, more than Sampras or Federer. When she wants to win she looks positively unstoppable.
Venus has won 4 Wimbledons now and it seems like she could've won 3 or 4 more. What happened to the Williams sisters? We used to wistfully ponder how they'd be playing each other in all the grand slam finals and while they've both won their share of titles, it feels like their time has just about passed. This was supposed to be Justine Henin's breakout year or maybe Kim Clisjter's last hurrah. Instead it was comeback time for Serena in Australia and Venus at Wimbledon and does anyone know why the Williams sisters left in the first place? Where have they been?
Don't Serena and Venus have to be considered somewhat disappointing?
Venus (A) 0/1 (F) 0/1 (W) 4/6 (U) 2/4 (T) 6/12
Serena (A) 2/2 (F) 1/1 (W) 2/2 (U) 2/3 (T) 7/8
They have played head-to-head in 6 Finals so perhaps the only thing standing in the way of total domination is each other. But I would disagree. The two of them combined have played in fewer Slam Finals than Steffi Graf won.
Graf (A) 4/5 (F) 6/9 (W) 7/9 (U) 5/8 (T) 22/31
Venus has won 4 Wimbledons now and it seems like she could've won 3 or 4 more. What happened to the Williams sisters? We used to wistfully ponder how they'd be playing each other in all the grand slam finals and while they've both won their share of titles, it feels like their time has just about passed. This was supposed to be Justine Henin's breakout year or maybe Kim Clisjter's last hurrah. Instead it was comeback time for Serena in Australia and Venus at Wimbledon and does anyone know why the Williams sisters left in the first place? Where have they been?
Don't Serena and Venus have to be considered somewhat disappointing?
Venus (A) 0/1 (F) 0/1 (W) 4/6 (U) 2/4 (T) 6/12
Serena (A) 2/2 (F) 1/1 (W) 2/2 (U) 2/3 (T) 7/8
They have played head-to-head in 6 Finals so perhaps the only thing standing in the way of total domination is each other. But I would disagree. The two of them combined have played in fewer Slam Finals than Steffi Graf won.
Graf (A) 4/5 (F) 6/9 (W) 7/9 (U) 5/8 (T) 22/31
Copa America update
Saturday July 7, 07
Venezuela 1 - 4 Uruguay
Chile 1 - 6 Brazil
Caught the 2nd half of that Uruguay match and I gotta say they were far superior to the home team. Venezuela had no attack at all, seemed reluctant to push forward even as the clock melted away. Uruguay looked solid in the front, middle and back. They'll be a tough out for Brazil. Hey, Chile, thanks for playing.
Sunday July 8, 07
Argentina 00 : 50 Peru
Mexico 22 : 05 Paraguay
For now I've still got my money on Argentina though clearly Brazil is heating up at the right time. Mexico can take Paraguay but I don't see them overcoming the Argentines.
Venezuela 1 - 4 Uruguay
Chile 1 - 6 Brazil
Caught the 2nd half of that Uruguay match and I gotta say they were far superior to the home team. Venezuela had no attack at all, seemed reluctant to push forward even as the clock melted away. Uruguay looked solid in the front, middle and back. They'll be a tough out for Brazil. Hey, Chile, thanks for playing.
Sunday July 8, 07
Argentina 00 : 50 Peru
Mexico 22 : 05 Paraguay
For now I've still got my money on Argentina though clearly Brazil is heating up at the right time. Mexico can take Paraguay but I don't see them overcoming the Argentines.
U-20 World Cup update
Saturday July 7, 07
Uruguay U20 0 - 2 Zambia U20
Spain U20 4 - 2 Jordan U20
Scotland U20 1 - 2 Costa Rica U20
Japan U20 0 - 0 Nigeria U20
Sunday July 8, 07
Chile U20 02 : 00 Austria U20
Canada U20 02 : 00 Congo U20
New Zealand U20 23 : 15 Mexico U20
Portugal U20 23 : 15 Gambia U20
Groups A & C are the final pieces of the knock-out round puzzle. A lot of teams, including Brazil, have their fingers crossed hoping to sneak on through. Portugal-Gambia, in particular, is a pivotal match.
Definitely in:
Chile, Spain, Zambia, Mexico, USA, Poland, Argentina, Czech, Japan, Nigeria
In-betweeners:
Uruguay, Austria, Brazil, Costa Rica, Portugal, Gambia, Congo
Definitely out:
Scotland, South Korea, Panama, North Korea, Canada, Jordan, New Zealand
6 of the 7 in-betweeners will be moving on and I'm picking Gambia as the odd man out. Argentina is easily the best team I've watched so far and should be the favorite to defend their 2003 Copa. USA is probably 2nd best that I've watched (which certainly isn't everybody). Spain, Mexico, Czech and Nigeria are the ones I'm keeping an eye on.
Uruguay U20 0 - 2 Zambia U20
Spain U20 4 - 2 Jordan U20
Scotland U20 1 - 2 Costa Rica U20
Japan U20 0 - 0 Nigeria U20
Sunday July 8, 07
Chile U20 02 : 00 Austria U20
Canada U20 02 : 00 Congo U20
New Zealand U20 23 : 15 Mexico U20
Portugal U20 23 : 15 Gambia U20
Groups A & C are the final pieces of the knock-out round puzzle. A lot of teams, including Brazil, have their fingers crossed hoping to sneak on through. Portugal-Gambia, in particular, is a pivotal match.
Definitely in:
Chile, Spain, Zambia, Mexico, USA, Poland, Argentina, Czech, Japan, Nigeria
In-betweeners:
Uruguay, Austria, Brazil, Costa Rica, Portugal, Gambia, Congo
Definitely out:
Scotland, South Korea, Panama, North Korea, Canada, Jordan, New Zealand
6 of the 7 in-betweeners will be moving on and I'm picking Gambia as the odd man out. Argentina is easily the best team I've watched so far and should be the favorite to defend their 2003 Copa. USA is probably 2nd best that I've watched (which certainly isn't everybody). Spain, Mexico, Czech and Nigeria are the ones I'm keeping an eye on.
Asian Cup update
Saturday July 7, 07
Thailand 1 - 1 Iraq
Iraq comes back and equalizes, rained all through the 2nd half so not a lot of offense.
Sunday July 8, 07
Australia 1 - 1 Oman
Vietnam 2 - 0 UAE
(All these games are freakin' early so I already missed today's games) Australia drawing with Oman is a big surprise, I would've thought Australia would've been maybe the favorite for this tournament. Not a surprise Vietnam takes UAE. Did you know Vietnam has the 10th largest population in the world? You've got to expect superior numbers to rise to the top in soccer. Keep an eye on Vietnam.
Monday July 9, 07
Japan 12 : 20 Qatar
Japan is one to watch in this tournament. (Australia, South Kore, Saudi Arabia, Vietnam & China should be interesting too)
Thailand 1 - 1 Iraq
Iraq comes back and equalizes, rained all through the 2nd half so not a lot of offense.
Sunday July 8, 07
Australia 1 - 1 Oman
Vietnam 2 - 0 UAE
(All these games are freakin' early so I already missed today's games) Australia drawing with Oman is a big surprise, I would've thought Australia would've been maybe the favorite for this tournament. Not a surprise Vietnam takes UAE. Did you know Vietnam has the 10th largest population in the world? You've got to expect superior numbers to rise to the top in soccer. Keep an eye on Vietnam.
Monday July 9, 07
Japan 12 : 20 Qatar
Japan is one to watch in this tournament. (Australia, South Kore, Saudi Arabia, Vietnam & China should be interesting too)
Friday, July 6, 2007
Wimbledon update
Caught most of Roddick faltering to Gasquet this afternoon. Roddick was up 2 sets, serving to go up 5-2 in the 3rd set and then his mind wandered, Gasquet pulled it together and 3 hours later, Roddick was headed home. I thought once it got into the 5th Roddick would embrace the underdog role and pick up his intensity and he did from time to time. But he didn't have the consistency needed to finish it off. Roddick has talent but his will wanders and he unfortunately finds himself in the age of Federer where even his best work will only be 2nd best at best.
Gasquet has a terrific backhand and his serve was every bit as tough as Roddick's (who was broken only twice today). Hard to imagine Gasquet beating Federer but I suppose anything's possible.
Djokovic could give Nadal some trouble, they both have big booming games. Should be a good match.
Venus Williams heading into her 6th Wimbledon final was no surprise but Justine Henin's loss to Bartoli is a shocker. The commentators where struggling to come up with such an upset in recent history and on the women's side it's true a handful of women have dominated everything over the last 20 years or so. But on second thought, its funny how time changes our memories: not unlike everyone forgetting that the Patriots beating the Rams was a HUGE upset at the time, they may well have said all these same things a few years back when Maria Sharapova won her first Wimbledon. At any rate, I thought Henin would take Venus but I know nothing about Barolit. Got to go with Venus.
Gasquet has a terrific backhand and his serve was every bit as tough as Roddick's (who was broken only twice today). Hard to imagine Gasquet beating Federer but I suppose anything's possible.
Djokovic could give Nadal some trouble, they both have big booming games. Should be a good match.
Venus Williams heading into her 6th Wimbledon final was no surprise but Justine Henin's loss to Bartoli is a shocker. The commentators where struggling to come up with such an upset in recent history and on the women's side it's true a handful of women have dominated everything over the last 20 years or so. But on second thought, its funny how time changes our memories: not unlike everyone forgetting that the Patriots beating the Rams was a HUGE upset at the time, they may well have said all these same things a few years back when Maria Sharapova won her first Wimbledon. At any rate, I thought Henin would take Venus but I know nothing about Barolit. Got to go with Venus.
Copa America update
Saturday July 7, 07
Venezuela 00 : 05 Uruguay
Chile 02 : 50 Brazil
Venezuela-Uruguay is a rematch of a draw from the group stage. I'll take the home team, Venezuela.
Brazil already laid a 3-0 thrashing on Chile. I'll take Brazil to win the rematch.
Sunday July 8, 07
Argentina 00 : 50 Peru
Mexico 22 : 05 Paraguay
Look for Argentina to tool the Peruvians.
Mexico came out big in the opener against Brazil and they've been looking pretty good. I like Mexico over Paraguay.
Venezuela 00 : 05 Uruguay
Chile 02 : 50 Brazil
Venezuela-Uruguay is a rematch of a draw from the group stage. I'll take the home team, Venezuela.
Brazil already laid a 3-0 thrashing on Chile. I'll take Brazil to win the rematch.
Sunday July 8, 07
Argentina 00 : 50 Peru
Mexico 22 : 05 Paraguay
Look for Argentina to tool the Peruvians.
Mexico came out big in the opener against Brazil and they've been looking pretty good. I like Mexico over Paraguay.
U-20 World Cup update
Thursday July 5, 07
Austria U20 1 - 0 Canada U20
Chile U20 3 - 0 Congo U20
Mexico U20 2 - 1 Portugal U20
New Zealand U20 0 - 1 Gambia U20
Friday July 6, 07
Poland U20 01 : 45 Korea Rep. U20
Brazil U20 01 : 45 USA U20
Argentina U20 23 : 00 Korea DPR U20
Czechia U20 23 : 00 Panama U20
Come on, patriots, and root for USA tonight against Brazil. (That game's on ESPN, if I'm not mistaken)
Austria U20 1 - 0 Canada U20
Chile U20 3 - 0 Congo U20
Mexico U20 2 - 1 Portugal U20
New Zealand U20 0 - 1 Gambia U20
Friday July 6, 07
Poland U20 01 : 45 Korea Rep. U20
Brazil U20 01 : 45 USA U20
Argentina U20 23 : 00 Korea DPR U20
Czechia U20 23 : 00 Panama U20
Come on, patriots, and root for USA tonight against Brazil. (That game's on ESPN, if I'm not mistaken)
Thursday, July 5, 2007
Wimbledon update
The Ladies' semi-finals:
Henin (1) v.
Bartoli (18)
Ivanovic (6) v.
V. Williams (23)
I like Henin over Venus in the finals.
The Gentlemens' quarterfinals:
Federer (1) v.
Ferrero (20)
Roddick (3) v.
Gasquet (12)
Baghdatis (10) v.
Djokovic (4)
Berdych (7) v.
Nadal (2)
I'd love to see Roddick take Federer in the semi but it ain't happening. I think Nadal stumbles. I'll take Federer over Djokovic.
Henin (1) v.
Bartoli (18)
Ivanovic (6) v.
V. Williams (23)
I like Henin over Venus in the finals.
The Gentlemens' quarterfinals:
Federer (1) v.
Ferrero (20)
Roddick (3) v.
Gasquet (12)
Baghdatis (10) v.
Djokovic (4)
Berdych (7) v.
Nadal (2)
I'd love to see Roddick take Federer in the semi but it ain't happening. I think Nadal stumbles. I'll take Federer over Djokovic.
Copa America update
Tuesday July 3, 07
Peru 2 - 2 Bolivia
Venezuela 0 - 0 Uruguay
Wednesday July 4, 07
Mexico 0 - 0 Chile
Brazil 1 - 0 Ecuador
Thursday July 5, 07
Colombia 00 : 35 United States
Argentina 02 : 50 Paraguay
There was a hope that USA still might have a glimmer of a shot at moving on but it ain't happening. The winner of USA-Colombia has already been eliminated so the game is just for fun.
Peru 2 - 2 Bolivia
Venezuela 0 - 0 Uruguay
Wednesday July 4, 07
Mexico 0 - 0 Chile
Brazil 1 - 0 Ecuador
Thursday July 5, 07
Colombia 00 : 35 United States
Argentina 02 : 50 Paraguay
There was a hope that USA still might have a glimmer of a shot at moving on but it ain't happening. The winner of USA-Colombia has already been eliminated so the game is just for fun.
U-20 World Cup update
Tuesday July 3, 07
Brazil U20 3 - 2 Korea Rep. U20
USA U20 6 - 1 Poland U20
Panama U20 0 - 6 Argentina U20
Czechia U20 2 - 2 Korea DPR U20
My goodness did you see the shellacking USA dropped on Poland? Freddy Adu punched his ticket out of Salt Lake City, say hey to Europe for me. USA played a flawless game, nice touches, good passing, solid D, aggressive counterattack, etc., and that was certainly a pleasure to watch. But I've got to factor in that Poland, fresh off an opening day victory over Brazil, sucked pretty bad. When the game started and Poland scored a goal in the first 5 minutes, it didn't feel like it would end in a big USA win but after the first 5 minutes, it was all USA. Good.
Wednesday July 4, 07
Uruguay U20 1 - 0 Jordan U20
Zambia U20 1 - 2 Spain U20
Costa Rica U20 0 - 1 Japan U20
Scotland U20 0 - 2 Nigeria U20
Thursday July 5, 07
Austria U20 01 : 00 Canada U20
Chile U20 04 : 30 Congo U20
Mexico U20 01 : 45 Portugal U20
New Zealand U20 0 - 1 Gambia U20
Friday July 6, 07
Argentina U20 23 : 00 Korea DPR U20
Czechia U20 23 : 00 Panama U20
Poland U20 01 : 45 Korea Rep. U20
Brazil U20 01 : 45 USA U20
Brazil U20 3 - 2 Korea Rep. U20
USA U20 6 - 1 Poland U20
Panama U20 0 - 6 Argentina U20
Czechia U20 2 - 2 Korea DPR U20
My goodness did you see the shellacking USA dropped on Poland? Freddy Adu punched his ticket out of Salt Lake City, say hey to Europe for me. USA played a flawless game, nice touches, good passing, solid D, aggressive counterattack, etc., and that was certainly a pleasure to watch. But I've got to factor in that Poland, fresh off an opening day victory over Brazil, sucked pretty bad. When the game started and Poland scored a goal in the first 5 minutes, it didn't feel like it would end in a big USA win but after the first 5 minutes, it was all USA. Good.
Wednesday July 4, 07
Uruguay U20 1 - 0 Jordan U20
Zambia U20 1 - 2 Spain U20
Costa Rica U20 0 - 1 Japan U20
Scotland U20 0 - 2 Nigeria U20
Thursday July 5, 07
Austria U20 01 : 00 Canada U20
Chile U20 04 : 30 Congo U20
Mexico U20 01 : 45 Portugal U20
New Zealand U20 0 - 1 Gambia U20
Friday July 6, 07
Argentina U20 23 : 00 Korea DPR U20
Czechia U20 23 : 00 Panama U20
Poland U20 01 : 45 Korea Rep. U20
Brazil U20 01 : 45 USA U20
Tuesday, July 3, 2007
Copa America update
Monday July 2, 07
United States 1 - 3 Paraguay
Argentina 4 - 2 Colombia
Paraguay and Argentina are moving on from that group, first place to be determined by their match (I believe Argentina has to win by 2 goals to take 1st). USA and Colombia get a chance to salvage something of this tournament when they face off later this week.
Tuesday July 3, 07
Peru 00 : 35 Bolivia
Venezuela 02 : 50 Uruguay
United States 1 - 3 Paraguay
Argentina 4 - 2 Colombia
Paraguay and Argentina are moving on from that group, first place to be determined by their match (I believe Argentina has to win by 2 goals to take 1st). USA and Colombia get a chance to salvage something of this tournament when they face off later this week.
Tuesday July 3, 07
Peru 00 : 35 Bolivia
Venezuela 02 : 50 Uruguay
U-20 World Cup update
Monday July 2, 07
Congo U20 1 - 1 Austria U20
Portugal U20 2 - 0 New Zealand U20
Gambia U20 0 - 3 Mexico U20
Everyone has played 1 match so far, still early.
Tuesday July 3, 07
Brazil U20 01 : 45 Korea Rep. U20
USA U20 23 : 00 Poland U20
Panama U20 01 : 45 Argentina U20
Czechia U20 23 : 00 Korea DPR U20
USA needs to beat Poland because Brazil is next up.
Congo U20 1 - 1 Austria U20
Portugal U20 2 - 0 New Zealand U20
Gambia U20 0 - 3 Mexico U20
Everyone has played 1 match so far, still early.
Tuesday July 3, 07
Brazil U20 01 : 45 Korea Rep. U20
USA U20 23 : 00 Poland U20
Panama U20 01 : 45 Argentina U20
Czechia U20 23 : 00 Korea DPR U20
USA needs to beat Poland because Brazil is next up.
Monday, July 2, 2007
U-20 World Cup update
Sunday July 1, 07
Canada U20 0 - 3 Chile U20
Spain U20 2 - 2 Uruguay U20
Jordan U20 1 - 1 Zambia U20
Nigeria U20 1 - 0 Costa Rica U20
Japan U20 3 - 1 Scotland U20
Monday July 2, 07
Congo U20 01 : 45 Austria U20
Portugal U20 20 : 15 New Zealand U20
Gambia U20 23 : 00 Mexico U20
Still a long way to go in this one.
Canada U20 0 - 3 Chile U20
Spain U20 2 - 2 Uruguay U20
Jordan U20 1 - 1 Zambia U20
Nigeria U20 1 - 0 Costa Rica U20
Japan U20 3 - 1 Scotland U20
Monday July 2, 07
Congo U20 01 : 45 Austria U20
Portugal U20 20 : 15 New Zealand U20
Gambia U20 23 : 00 Mexico U20
Still a long way to go in this one.
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