Azkals vs Lions, who do you expect to win? No, I'm not referring to a match between stray dogs versus giant cats. Azkals vs Lions is a match between the Philippines and Singapore's football teams. It will happen tonight at the Jalan Besar Stadium.
I was one of those who in Twitter, cheered for the Azkals vs Kuwait. "#WeBelieve" alright. But we're actually waiting for a miracle to happen. The Kuwaitis were more experienced and better equipped. The Singaporeans, 30 notches higher in Rank, are also great footballers, so I'm also also waiting for another miracle to happen. Who knows really if there'll be 30 minutes of madness when the Lion's will stop playing and allow the Azkals to pass by them and score easy goals.
I'd like like the Azkals to win 15-0. That would at least tie the country's most number of goals in a single game. In 1917, during the Far Eastern Championship Games in Tokyo, Paulino Alcantara-led Philippine team defeated Japan 15–2. That was the Philippines' biggest win in international football.
We have some Fil-foreigners in our lineup. But are they at the level of Messi and Ronaldo? So I just have to lower down my expectations. 2-2 will be good enough. Perhaps the Filipinos will understand that. We cannot change our state of football overnight.
Showing posts with label football. Show all posts
Showing posts with label football. Show all posts
Friday, October 07, 2011
Friday, July 09, 2010
Thoughts On Spain Winning The World Cup
It will be Spain's first. First at the Finals, first trophy if they win, and first team to win the cup despite losing its opening match. Would you believe that they had not entered the semifinals in any of the World Cup they joined? Considering that they have Real Madrid and Barcelona, two of the world's top clubs, Spain should be on top of the football world, right?
Now Spain is on top of the world, literally. Spain is seeded second to Brazil. Now that the five-time winner is out, Spain is the toughest bunch into the Finals. They will face Robben-led Netherlands, the team that disposed of Brazil in the quarterfinals.
Spain's Chances
Spain is the heavy favorite to win the 2010 World Cup, especially now that they easily disposed of the quick-footed German team in the semis. The current team is fast, and jelled well in the rotation. 7 of the players are from Barcelona and 3 from Real Madrid. The Barcelona-type of play of quick touches and slick passing is very evident in their every match. This is the type of football everyone loves.
David Villa is the main man for Spain. He scored 5 goals in six games and is every inch a remarkable striker. Villa is ably assisted by Andres Iniesta, whom Rooney says, is the best player in the world. Iniesta has always been the threat up front, and he can absolutely fire a goal anytime. Fernando Torres, another world-class player, is coming off from injury. He had not shown much though, but given the right moment, he can fire plenty of shots.
Come Sunday (Monday dawn Philippine time), Spain will face the Netherlands, another team hungry for the title. I don't know what Paul, the octopus seance, will say about Spain's chances. This 2010 could be La Furia Roca's time.
But sorry, I'll be rooting for the team in Orange.
Now Spain is on top of the world, literally. Spain is seeded second to Brazil. Now that the five-time winner is out, Spain is the toughest bunch into the Finals. They will face Robben-led Netherlands, the team that disposed of Brazil in the quarterfinals.
Spain's Chances
Spain is the heavy favorite to win the 2010 World Cup, especially now that they easily disposed of the quick-footed German team in the semis. The current team is fast, and jelled well in the rotation. 7 of the players are from Barcelona and 3 from Real Madrid. The Barcelona-type of play of quick touches and slick passing is very evident in their every match. This is the type of football everyone loves.
David Villa is the main man for Spain. He scored 5 goals in six games and is every inch a remarkable striker. Villa is ably assisted by Andres Iniesta, whom Rooney says, is the best player in the world. Iniesta has always been the threat up front, and he can absolutely fire a goal anytime. Fernando Torres, another world-class player, is coming off from injury. He had not shown much though, but given the right moment, he can fire plenty of shots.
Come Sunday (Monday dawn Philippine time), Spain will face the Netherlands, another team hungry for the title. I don't know what Paul, the octopus seance, will say about Spain's chances. This 2010 could be La Furia Roca's time.
But sorry, I'll be rooting for the team in Orange.
Tuesday, July 06, 2010
Thoughts on the World Cup 2010 Semis
The FIFA World Cup 2010 in South Africa, which opened last June 11, 2010, is now on its last stages of the tournament. Only 4 teams remain. Some teams had already left the tournament, including the favorites France, Italy, England, Brazil and Argentina.
Who would have thought that Italy and France, both football powerhouses in Europe and finalists in the 2006 edition, were eliminated in the first round? Their awful performance was jeered by fans, and they went home in humiliation. France had a star player sent home because of some verbal tussle with the coach. The other players went on strike. The Prime Minister wanted to intervene and demanded some explanation.
In Italy, it was just a shame for the defending champ. They don’t have the glitter and the legs to perform at the top level anymore.
So, how about England? They are very strong on paper. They have one of the best coaches in the world named Fabio Capello. But their stars brought no ammunition in the actual battle at the football field. Wayne Rooney, despite being dubbed as one of the best soccer players in the world, was a major disappointment. He even had some ugly confrontation with a few of the English fans. Lampard, Gerrard and Terry were no shows. Even against teams like USA and Algeria, they failed to win. Their early and embarrassing exit at the hands of a young German team was not a surprise anymore.
At the quarters, there were 4 teams from South Africa, 3 from Europe and one from Africa. Brazil, the current no. 1 team in the world and the favorite to win the Cup, was also favored to win against Netherlands. They looked lethal on paper and they easily beat their opponents. But even great teams crumble. After the unfortunate own goal from Felipe Melo, Brazil never recovered and lost 1-2 to the Oranges. The coach was immediately sacked. 4 years of preparation, and winning every game along the way, was all for naught because they failed to win the greatest prize of them all – the World Cup. That could have been their sixth. But they will have a chance against as they will host the 2014 edition in Sao Paulo.
Cry for Argentina this time. They were badly humiliated by the Germans, despite having one of the most solid and experienced squad in the tournament. 0-4 is such an embarrassing defeat that it need a National Day of mourning. I cried for Messi and for Diego. The latter will no longer have to run naked in Buenos Aires, as he promised if his team wins the Cup.
Who are the teams left? It is such an unlikely group. Netherlands, Uruguay, Germany and Spain remained standing after the other fell along the way. Spain is the next favorite to win, but their performance in South Africa is suspect. They lost their first game again Switzerland. No team that lost its first game ever won the Cup. Can they break that jinx? Germany, on the other hand, is riding high on its trashing of Argentina. The young Germans are lethal on the attack and yet solid on defense. Spain has to be lucky to win against the mighty Germans.
In the other semis match, it is Netherlands vs Uruguay. The South American came off with a controversial win against Ghana. The ‘hand of Suarez’ rescued them. And luck was not on the Africans side as they missed the ensuing penalty. Uruguay will be without their main striker. But Netherlands, the team that dismantled Brazil, has all the chances to win the Cup now. They’ve never won the tournament before, despite being in the finals twice. Maybe, this is their chance to surpass the greatness of Johan Cruyff’s team of ’74.
The semis matches are both good to watch. All four are known not to play boring football. Expect more goals. But I like to see a finals of Netherlands vs Germany. That would be a remake of their 1974 encounter.
See also - Netherlands vs Uruguay: World Cup 2010 Semis Preview and Results Prediction
Who would have thought that Italy and France, both football powerhouses in Europe and finalists in the 2006 edition, were eliminated in the first round? Their awful performance was jeered by fans, and they went home in humiliation. France had a star player sent home because of some verbal tussle with the coach. The other players went on strike. The Prime Minister wanted to intervene and demanded some explanation.
In Italy, it was just a shame for the defending champ. They don’t have the glitter and the legs to perform at the top level anymore.
So, how about England? They are very strong on paper. They have one of the best coaches in the world named Fabio Capello. But their stars brought no ammunition in the actual battle at the football field. Wayne Rooney, despite being dubbed as one of the best soccer players in the world, was a major disappointment. He even had some ugly confrontation with a few of the English fans. Lampard, Gerrard and Terry were no shows. Even against teams like USA and Algeria, they failed to win. Their early and embarrassing exit at the hands of a young German team was not a surprise anymore.
At the quarters, there were 4 teams from South Africa, 3 from Europe and one from Africa. Brazil, the current no. 1 team in the world and the favorite to win the Cup, was also favored to win against Netherlands. They looked lethal on paper and they easily beat their opponents. But even great teams crumble. After the unfortunate own goal from Felipe Melo, Brazil never recovered and lost 1-2 to the Oranges. The coach was immediately sacked. 4 years of preparation, and winning every game along the way, was all for naught because they failed to win the greatest prize of them all – the World Cup. That could have been their sixth. But they will have a chance against as they will host the 2014 edition in Sao Paulo.
Cry for Argentina this time. They were badly humiliated by the Germans, despite having one of the most solid and experienced squad in the tournament. 0-4 is such an embarrassing defeat that it need a National Day of mourning. I cried for Messi and for Diego. The latter will no longer have to run naked in Buenos Aires, as he promised if his team wins the Cup.
Who are the teams left? It is such an unlikely group. Netherlands, Uruguay, Germany and Spain remained standing after the other fell along the way. Spain is the next favorite to win, but their performance in South Africa is suspect. They lost their first game again Switzerland. No team that lost its first game ever won the Cup. Can they break that jinx? Germany, on the other hand, is riding high on its trashing of Argentina. The young Germans are lethal on the attack and yet solid on defense. Spain has to be lucky to win against the mighty Germans.
In the other semis match, it is Netherlands vs Uruguay. The South American came off with a controversial win against Ghana. The ‘hand of Suarez’ rescued them. And luck was not on the Africans side as they missed the ensuing penalty. Uruguay will be without their main striker. But Netherlands, the team that dismantled Brazil, has all the chances to win the Cup now. They’ve never won the tournament before, despite being in the finals twice. Maybe, this is their chance to surpass the greatness of Johan Cruyff’s team of ’74.
The semis matches are both good to watch. All four are known not to play boring football. Expect more goals. But I like to see a finals of Netherlands vs Germany. That would be a remake of their 1974 encounter.
See also - Netherlands vs Uruguay: World Cup 2010 Semis Preview and Results Prediction
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
Watch Spain vs Portugal Live Stream Online for Free
I love to watch live online Spain vs Portugal tonight. The two will be battling for a place in the quarterfinals. It is a must see game for all football fans in the world. Big names such as Cristiano Ronaldo, Deco, Fernando Torres, David Villa and Iker Cassilas will be playing.
The game will start at 230pm ET (12am HK time). I am sure a lot will be searching for a free live stream online of the Spain vs Portugal match for the 2010 world cup.
For those with cable TV in the Philippines, Sky Cable has its Balls Channel airing the games live. For those wanting to watch it live online, ESPN3 offers free live stream for US residents.
For those who are unwilling to pay, hostream.net offers various channels. But most of time, the quality is so bad that you would just want to go the neighbors house and sneak in to their living room just to watch TV.
What to Expect?
History has not sided with both countries. Despite their greatness in Europe, not one of the two had made it to the Finals. Portugal placed third in 1966 and 4th in 2006, but Spain is unluckier as it had not reached the semis. The latter is even considered a football superpower, and ranked second to Brazil.
So today they'll make history. Head-to-head, Spain is ahead, even in the rankings. But player-wise, Cristiano Ronaldo is much a better footballer than any of the Spanish squad. Spain has Fernando Torres, David Villa, Cesc Fabregas, and Andres Iniesta. Explosive strikers they are. But in this tournament, only Villa made a significant contribution. Spain's fans should hope for better things to come around tonight. They need to claim their place in world cup history - not as an underachiever, but a true football superpower. Just as the papers said about them.
Spain or Portugal?
If you haven't had an opportunity to watch any of the two teams play, you ahould watch tonight. Spain vs Portugal, neighbors at war in South Africa. As for me, I am rooting for Portugal to win 1-0 vs Spain. Sorry La Liga fans! Anyway,you have Ronaldo in Madrid.
See also Spain vs Portugal: Preview and Results Prediction
The game will start at 230pm ET (12am HK time). I am sure a lot will be searching for a free live stream online of the Spain vs Portugal match for the 2010 world cup.
For those with cable TV in the Philippines, Sky Cable has its Balls Channel airing the games live. For those wanting to watch it live online, ESPN3 offers free live stream for US residents.
For those who are unwilling to pay, hostream.net offers various channels. But most of time, the quality is so bad that you would just want to go the neighbors house and sneak in to their living room just to watch TV.
What to Expect?
History has not sided with both countries. Despite their greatness in Europe, not one of the two had made it to the Finals. Portugal placed third in 1966 and 4th in 2006, but Spain is unluckier as it had not reached the semis. The latter is even considered a football superpower, and ranked second to Brazil.
So today they'll make history. Head-to-head, Spain is ahead, even in the rankings. But player-wise, Cristiano Ronaldo is much a better footballer than any of the Spanish squad. Spain has Fernando Torres, David Villa, Cesc Fabregas, and Andres Iniesta. Explosive strikers they are. But in this tournament, only Villa made a significant contribution. Spain's fans should hope for better things to come around tonight. They need to claim their place in world cup history - not as an underachiever, but a true football superpower. Just as the papers said about them.
Spain or Portugal?
If you haven't had an opportunity to watch any of the two teams play, you ahould watch tonight. Spain vs Portugal, neighbors at war in South Africa. As for me, I am rooting for Portugal to win 1-0 vs Spain. Sorry La Liga fans! Anyway,you have Ronaldo in Madrid.
See also Spain vs Portugal: Preview and Results Prediction
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
Champions League Obsession
I've written a lot of post about football here in this blog. And plenty of those are about UEFA champion league matches. The 2010 season is about to end, and in a few hours from now, we will know who will face each other in the Finals.
Bayern Munich is already in. They are now waiting for the results of the other semifinals match. I am raring to watch Barcelona vs Inter Milan champions league match via free live streaming. I already know where to locate the free stuff. But quality-wise, you will certainly not enjoy it.
Last year, I saw the finals match between Manchester United and Barcelona when I sneaked in to the hotel room of a travelling work colleague. Since he was alone on a 2-bed room, I stayed there for a night just to watch the game.
But for this year, I still don't have a cable TV. I tried to scout for cheap cable companies offering Star Sports and ESPN. But so far, there's none in the place where I live. So I was will just watch the match online, and skip sleep once again. Ah, this is obsession!
Bayern Munich is already in. They are now waiting for the results of the other semifinals match. I am raring to watch Barcelona vs Inter Milan champions league match via free live streaming. I already know where to locate the free stuff. But quality-wise, you will certainly not enjoy it.
Last year, I saw the finals match between Manchester United and Barcelona when I sneaked in to the hotel room of a travelling work colleague. Since he was alone on a 2-bed room, I stayed there for a night just to watch the game.
But for this year, I still don't have a cable TV. I tried to scout for cheap cable companies offering Star Sports and ESPN. But so far, there's none in the place where I live. So I was will just watch the match online, and skip sleep once again. Ah, this is obsession!
Thursday, May 28, 2009
Barcelona Wins UEFA Champions League 2009
Barcelona wins over Manchester United in the UEFA Champions League 2009. The newly-crowned Spanish Champions have shown their class and masterful football by foiling all attempts of FIFA World Player of the Year, Ronaldo, and breaking the Red Devils' defense in their brutal yet fluid attack. Eto'o provided the first goal at the 9th minute. Later in the game, Messi headed the ball beating Van der Sar.
My predictions of the Barcelona vs Manchester United game went to naught. The 2-0 score at the end of regulation was too much for the English Champions. I was really hoping for a comeback, but the I knew the game ended with the first shot that hit the back of the net. Ronaldo and Rooney wasted too many opportunities. Too bad.
I am in a hotel room watching the UEFA Champions League finals. I didn't rent a room. I had no budget for that. I just hitched room from an officemate who came from head office and was billeted in a hotel nearby. I'm so disappointed that the game wasn't even close.
Congratulations to Barca for winning in 2006 and now in 2009! It was really beautiful football!
My predictions of the Barcelona vs Manchester United game went to naught. The 2-0 score at the end of regulation was too much for the English Champions. I was really hoping for a comeback, but the I knew the game ended with the first shot that hit the back of the net. Ronaldo and Rooney wasted too many opportunities. Too bad.
I am in a hotel room watching the UEFA Champions League finals. I didn't rent a room. I had no budget for that. I just hitched room from an officemate who came from head office and was billeted in a hotel nearby. I'm so disappointed that the game wasn't even close.
Congratulations to Barca for winning in 2006 and now in 2009! It was really beautiful football!
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
Barcelona vs Chelsea
No, I'm not talking about Barcelona brandy. I'm blogging again about a football (soccer) match. Tonight will be the first leg of the 2009 Champion's League semifinal match between Barcelona and Chelsea. So, who do you think will win? If Barca were playing any team other than Chelsea, I would have rooted for them. I love their very fluid attacking play. With Henry, Eto and Messi in the attack, who could repulse them?
Chelsea, on the other hand, is my team thru thick and thin. I thought I'd dump them after Jose Mourinho left them a couple of years ago. But I remained a fan of the team. I can still be a fan of Mourinho too, while he struts his wares in Italy.
In this semis match, I think most favor the Spanish giant to win the finals. But I think otherwise. With Drogba, Lampard and Terry in the leadership roles, the Blues will win it this time in the Barcelona vs Chelsea 2009 Champions League semifinals.
Too bad I have no cable TV. And I would have been willing to forego sleep just to watch this soccer game.
Chelsea, on the other hand, is my team thru thick and thin. I thought I'd dump them after Jose Mourinho left them a couple of years ago. But I remained a fan of the team. I can still be a fan of Mourinho too, while he struts his wares in Italy.
In this semis match, I think most favor the Spanish giant to win the finals. But I think otherwise. With Drogba, Lampard and Terry in the leadership roles, the Blues will win it this time in the Barcelona vs Chelsea 2009 Champions League semifinals.
Too bad I have no cable TV. And I would have been willing to forego sleep just to watch this soccer game.
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
UEFA Champions’ League: Chelsea vs Juventus
Many times I have written about football. But it’s always about a team or a tournament abroad. This one is no different, since it involves my favorite team, Chelsea of UK’s Premier League. It will be Chelsea vs Juventus a few hours from now. They’re fighting for a place for the quarter finals of the 2008-2009 champons League. Too bad I don’t have a TV and a cable connection in my rented room in Sucat.
I remember many times in the past when I got a chance to see a few Champion’s league football matches, every time I visit Manila. Since the hotel room’s got a large TV, I’d sleep early and wake up in time for the exciting games. Back in Cebu, three years ago, on game date I do some officeworks at home, and stay awake for the football games shown at ESPN. Addicted I was really.
Now I have no choice. I thought of renting some cheap hotel rooms just to watch TV. Nah, not worth it! So I’d just dream of the results and imagine how my favorite team is faring against a tough opponent. I imagine a Terry header and a Lampard free kick hitting the net. I imagine Blues all over.
May Chelsea really win this time!
I remember many times in the past when I got a chance to see a few Champion’s league football matches, every time I visit Manila. Since the hotel room’s got a large TV, I’d sleep early and wake up in time for the exciting games. Back in Cebu, three years ago, on game date I do some officeworks at home, and stay awake for the football games shown at ESPN. Addicted I was really.
Now I have no choice. I thought of renting some cheap hotel rooms just to watch TV. Nah, not worth it! So I’d just dream of the results and imagine how my favorite team is faring against a tough opponent. I imagine a Terry header and a Lampard free kick hitting the net. I imagine Blues all over.
May Chelsea really win this time!
Thursday, May 22, 2008
Still Nothing For Chelsea
Forgive me if you don’t know what my title is all about. The Chelsea I am referring to is not a name of a girl or that of Miss Clinton. If you have read my sports archives, you will know what I mean.
11 pm last night I browsed the sports channel in my hotel room here in Taft, (Yep, I’m in Manila since yesterday), looking for the schedule of the Finals game between Manchester United and Chelsea FC, two leading football clubs in England. It’s an all-English finals for Europe’s elite club tournament, the Champions’ League. It’s really very ironic. Two English clubs, one is majority owned by an American, the other by a Russian. They battled in Moscow. Despite their clubs’ strength, England will not be seen in Euro 2008 next month. Their national team failed the cut. So sad!
I woke up 2am and turned on the TV. I was just in time to watch my Chelsea team tormented by Ronaldo’s header that found its way to the goal. Just before half time, Lampard found the net to level the score at 1-1. I turned the TV off at half-time and slept. But my mind wandered into a deep sleep that I missed the whole second half and the extensions after that. By the time I pushed the button, it was already towards the end of the 30-minute final extension, and the score still tied at 1-1. It went into a more exciting finale, a kick-out.
I thought it was the end of Man U when their superstar, Cristiano Ronaldo, failed to convert. At four all, everyone’s eyes were on John Terry, the Chelsea and England Captain. If his shot will go in, Chelsea will be a first time Champ. I was so confident that he’d deliver, but his ball missed the entire goal. Abramovich, the team’s Russian owner, could have had a heart attack at the owners’ box. He couldn’t believe what he just saw. Two more United players found the net, but Chelsea’s rarely used Anelka, had his ball blocked by Man U’s supergoalie.
It’s the end of Chelsea. Four times of reaching the semis in the past, and now the finals, this one should have been tailored fit for them. Yet they failed. They have not won any trophy this season, they failed to defend their titles, they lost their fiery coach earlier in the season, and they could lose more fans.
I am just happy for Manchester United. They deserve to win both the English Premier League and the Champions’ League this season. Cristiano Ronaldo is awesome too. The young Portuguese is truly deserving of all the awards he won. Had they lost, his miss on the box would have been remembered forever. I can also cheer for the team, since they are one of my top 5 faves. Cheers to Manchester United! Still nothing for Chelsea!
11 pm last night I browsed the sports channel in my hotel room here in Taft, (Yep, I’m in Manila since yesterday), looking for the schedule of the Finals game between Manchester United and Chelsea FC, two leading football clubs in England. It’s an all-English finals for Europe’s elite club tournament, the Champions’ League. It’s really very ironic. Two English clubs, one is majority owned by an American, the other by a Russian. They battled in Moscow. Despite their clubs’ strength, England will not be seen in Euro 2008 next month. Their national team failed the cut. So sad!
I woke up 2am and turned on the TV. I was just in time to watch my Chelsea team tormented by Ronaldo’s header that found its way to the goal. Just before half time, Lampard found the net to level the score at 1-1. I turned the TV off at half-time and slept. But my mind wandered into a deep sleep that I missed the whole second half and the extensions after that. By the time I pushed the button, it was already towards the end of the 30-minute final extension, and the score still tied at 1-1. It went into a more exciting finale, a kick-out.
I thought it was the end of Man U when their superstar, Cristiano Ronaldo, failed to convert. At four all, everyone’s eyes were on John Terry, the Chelsea and England Captain. If his shot will go in, Chelsea will be a first time Champ. I was so confident that he’d deliver, but his ball missed the entire goal. Abramovich, the team’s Russian owner, could have had a heart attack at the owners’ box. He couldn’t believe what he just saw. Two more United players found the net, but Chelsea’s rarely used Anelka, had his ball blocked by Man U’s supergoalie.
It’s the end of Chelsea. Four times of reaching the semis in the past, and now the finals, this one should have been tailored fit for them. Yet they failed. They have not won any trophy this season, they failed to defend their titles, they lost their fiery coach earlier in the season, and they could lose more fans.
I am just happy for Manchester United. They deserve to win both the English Premier League and the Champions’ League this season. Cristiano Ronaldo is awesome too. The young Portuguese is truly deserving of all the awards he won. Had they lost, his miss on the box would have been remembered forever. I can also cheer for the team, since they are one of my top 5 faves. Cheers to Manchester United! Still nothing for Chelsea!
Friday, December 28, 2007
Improvised Soccer
I don’t know what got into the head of my wife when on Christmas day, she brought her nieces and nephews to an aunt’s house and there we played improvised soccer on the 200 sq.m. yard. No, she doesn’t really play soccer. The improvisation was just for fun and it shows her creativeness. Two monoblock chairs served as goal posts for the opposing sides.
There were four players for each team. I played opposite my wife. Her team was composed of her 22-yr old brother, a 14-yr old nephew and an 11-yr old niece. My team was composed of aunt’s family driver, an 18-yr old niece and a 7 yr-old nephew.
My wife is confident of her brother’s ability, for he played soccer during high school. She thought her team can beat us easily. But we disappointed her.
She didn’t know that the family driver also played soccer back in his province in Negros. He’s quick and skillful. My 7 yr old teammate is also fearless and even kicked feet and legs of opponents. I too showed my dribbling abilities and even made some attacking plays. But my weight and lack of endurance slowed me down. So I left it to the driver to finish the goals. He scored twice.
The game ended at 2-1, with our side having the advantage. But my wife asked for a rematch. We set New Year’s Day as our next playing date. She wanted the driver to be on her team. I offered a trade for her brother, but she declined and wanted both. She wanted to ensure victory the next time around.
I just smiled in return and thought of tricks on how to win again. I can’t really complain of her competitiveness.
There were four players for each team. I played opposite my wife. Her team was composed of her 22-yr old brother, a 14-yr old nephew and an 11-yr old niece. My team was composed of aunt’s family driver, an 18-yr old niece and a 7 yr-old nephew.
My wife is confident of her brother’s ability, for he played soccer during high school. She thought her team can beat us easily. But we disappointed her.
She didn’t know that the family driver also played soccer back in his province in Negros. He’s quick and skillful. My 7 yr old teammate is also fearless and even kicked feet and legs of opponents. I too showed my dribbling abilities and even made some attacking plays. But my weight and lack of endurance slowed me down. So I left it to the driver to finish the goals. He scored twice.
The game ended at 2-1, with our side having the advantage. But my wife asked for a rematch. We set New Year’s Day as our next playing date. She wanted the driver to be on her team. I offered a trade for her brother, but she declined and wanted both. She wanted to ensure victory the next time around.
I just smiled in return and thought of tricks on how to win again. I can’t really complain of her competitiveness.
Monday, December 17, 2007
Lament of a Football Fan
I once had this friendly argument with a colleague as to the universal scope of some popular sports. “Football is the world’s most popular sport” I strongly argued.
“No. It’s basketball” he insisted.
Perhaps after thorough research a week after, he backed down from his claim. But he was not alone in his glorification of basketball. Filipinos do love basketball, and most actually thinks that the NBA is bigger than FIFA, and that football is the game played by men with helmets and oversized suits.
See the effects of the American colonizers on us? We call the traditional football soccer (sounds like sucker), just like they call it in the USA, when the rest world call it football. And guess what? The Philippines did not send a football team to the 2007 SEA games because they think we have a very slim chance of winning. So, where is the long-term program they talked about years ago? There was already a faint ray of hope when our world standings improved a few notch higher a couple of years ago.
As for me and the few football fans here in RP, we just have to mingle with the worldwide fans in rooting for the big clubs and the strong footballing nations. Thank God for cable TVs! No local channel carries the beautiful game. And we have no local teams to cheer on.
“No. It’s basketball” he insisted.
Perhaps after thorough research a week after, he backed down from his claim. But he was not alone in his glorification of basketball. Filipinos do love basketball, and most actually thinks that the NBA is bigger than FIFA, and that football is the game played by men with helmets and oversized suits.
See the effects of the American colonizers on us? We call the traditional football soccer (sounds like sucker), just like they call it in the USA, when the rest world call it football. And guess what? The Philippines did not send a football team to the 2007 SEA games because they think we have a very slim chance of winning. So, where is the long-term program they talked about years ago? There was already a faint ray of hope when our world standings improved a few notch higher a couple of years ago.
As for me and the few football fans here in RP, we just have to mingle with the worldwide fans in rooting for the big clubs and the strong footballing nations. Thank God for cable TVs! No local channel carries the beautiful game. And we have no local teams to cheer on.
Friday, December 07, 2007
Champs League 2008
The group stage of the UEFA Champions League for 2007/2008 is almost over. The familiar clubs names are still in. I’m just worried for Liverpool, the 2005 champion (2007 runner-up), for they are struggling in group A. I hope Steven Gerrard will lift them up again in their last qualifying game. FC Porto, the 2004 champions, is currently on a shaky lead. But I believe they’ll qualify again.
In group B, Chelsea sits on top. The two draws are obviously a dent in their record, but as long as they progress and eventually win the trophy, the angst of Mourinho’s exit will be forgotten. But their stars are injured, some physically, others emotionally. I hope they recover on time. As per European record, they have no trophy to boast.
As expected, Real Madrid leads group C. The nine-time champion fans expect nothing but the top prize, anything less is a disappointment. Ruud van Nistelrooy and Raul are two most lethal strikers in Europe today.
AC Milan, the seven-time and currently defending Champion, tops group D. Nobody expects them to drop out early. If they reach the semis, they could possibly win again because of their vast experience. Kaka is a very exciting player to watch.
FC Barcelona is another club to reckon with. They currently top group E. The 2006 champion is gifted with four most exciting players in the world in Ronaldinho, Lionel Messi (said to be the next Maradona), Thierry Henry and Samuel Eto’o. I can’t find any weakness in their present line-up.
Group F is lead by EPL champion Manchester United. There is the young Portuguese, Ronaldo, who wows the crowd with his wonderful plays. And of course, there is Wayne Rooney, another young English hotshot player who can score many goals.
Two heavyweights are in Group G. PSV Eindhoven and Inter Milan. Though both are champions in their respective leagues, I don’t see them reach the finals this year. Inter is currently on top of the tables, but PSV seems to be on an early exit.
Arsenal is currently behind Sevilla in group H, but may be able to catch up if they will win their next assignment. After Henry’s transfer to Barcelona, many ruled them out both in the Premiership and in the Champions League. But they’re proving their critics wrong. They’re now on top of the EPL despite the absence of big name players in their squad. Their youth and flare is their advantage. But still, I don’t see them beyond the semis.
So, who will be your pick to reach the final four? Mine would be AC Milan, Chelsea, Real Madrid and Barcelona. It’s so hard to say this, but I don’t think my Chelsea team can go beyond the semis. I’ll just have to wait and see though. I have not yet really moved on after Mourinho’s departure from Chelsea.
In group B, Chelsea sits on top. The two draws are obviously a dent in their record, but as long as they progress and eventually win the trophy, the angst of Mourinho’s exit will be forgotten. But their stars are injured, some physically, others emotionally. I hope they recover on time. As per European record, they have no trophy to boast.
As expected, Real Madrid leads group C. The nine-time champion fans expect nothing but the top prize, anything less is a disappointment. Ruud van Nistelrooy and Raul are two most lethal strikers in Europe today.
AC Milan, the seven-time and currently defending Champion, tops group D. Nobody expects them to drop out early. If they reach the semis, they could possibly win again because of their vast experience. Kaka is a very exciting player to watch.
FC Barcelona is another club to reckon with. They currently top group E. The 2006 champion is gifted with four most exciting players in the world in Ronaldinho, Lionel Messi (said to be the next Maradona), Thierry Henry and Samuel Eto’o. I can’t find any weakness in their present line-up.
Group F is lead by EPL champion Manchester United. There is the young Portuguese, Ronaldo, who wows the crowd with his wonderful plays. And of course, there is Wayne Rooney, another young English hotshot player who can score many goals.
Two heavyweights are in Group G. PSV Eindhoven and Inter Milan. Though both are champions in their respective leagues, I don’t see them reach the finals this year. Inter is currently on top of the tables, but PSV seems to be on an early exit.
Arsenal is currently behind Sevilla in group H, but may be able to catch up if they will win their next assignment. After Henry’s transfer to Barcelona, many ruled them out both in the Premiership and in the Champions League. But they’re proving their critics wrong. They’re now on top of the EPL despite the absence of big name players in their squad. Their youth and flare is their advantage. But still, I don’t see them beyond the semis.
So, who will be your pick to reach the final four? Mine would be AC Milan, Chelsea, Real Madrid and Barcelona. It’s so hard to say this, but I don’t think my Chelsea team can go beyond the semis. I’ll just have to wait and see though. I have not yet really moved on after Mourinho’s departure from Chelsea.
Thursday, November 22, 2007
England Crashed Out from Euro 2008
It is a very sad day for England. Their football team crashed out of the Euro 2008 competition, after a 3-2 loss to Croatia. The Euro competition is second to the World Cup in terms of everything. But the woeful England, even failed to qualify. Thanks to their manager. Crashing out early is really an embarrassment.
Steve McLaren should be hiding by now and may he never show his face again in English football. But reports say he’s not resigning. Then fire him.
Where’s Lampard? Where’s Gerrard? Where are the glittering superstars for England? Do I need to mention Beckham, Terry and the others? European fans will simply miss another great team.
I’d be rooting for Portugal again. Go, Ronaldo!
Steve McLaren should be hiding by now and may he never show his face again in English football. But reports say he’s not resigning. Then fire him.
Where’s Lampard? Where’s Gerrard? Where are the glittering superstars for England? Do I need to mention Beckham, Terry and the others? European fans will simply miss another great team.
I’d be rooting for Portugal again. Go, Ronaldo!
Friday, September 21, 2007
A Sad Fan
It was in the news yesterday. But more write-ups came in just today. The soccernet website provided plenty of articles to satisfy my voracious need for information. I’m sure most of you didn’t know about it because it's about football, and in a foreign land.
My favorite manager left my favorite team or my favorite team owner sacked my favorite manager. Whichever way, the fact is: they parted ways yesterday. “Mourinho leaves Chelsea”/“Chelsea sacked Mourinho”.
It came as a shock to many. After giving the London club its first trophy in 50 years, and adding plenty more domestic silverwares in the next two years, it was not enough to please the owner who wants to conquer Europe. The decent two semi-final finishes in the Champions’ League, that could have elicited cheers in others’ boardroom, were still below expectations for Abramovich.
But Mourinho left 20 million pounds richer. It’s his separation package since his contract run till 2010. He is proud of his achievements, and it will surely be imbedded in the team’s history. I salute him for that.
The English media, the Liverpool, Arsenal and Manchester United fans will surely miss him. Rafael Benitez (Liverpool), and Arsene Wenger (Arsenal) will miss the “Special One’s” snide remarks. The rest of the managers (other than the managers of the top 4) are just too boring.
His parting words:
"I am very proud of my work in Chelsea Football Club and I think my decision in May 2004 to come to England was an excellent one," said Mourinho.
"It was a beautiful and rich period of my career. I want to thank all Chelsea FC supporters for what I believe is a never-ending love story.
"I wish great success to the club, a club that will be forever connected to me for some historical moments.
"I wish the players happiness in football and in their family life. Finally on my wife's and children' s behalf we thank the great professionalism of their school teachers and the beauty of so many friends." quoted from BBC
I am saddened by all of these. I have mentioned before that I am a Mourinho fan. Does it mean that it is my goodbye for Chelsea as well?
My favorite manager left my favorite team or my favorite team owner sacked my favorite manager. Whichever way, the fact is: they parted ways yesterday. “Mourinho leaves Chelsea”/“Chelsea sacked Mourinho”.
It came as a shock to many. After giving the London club its first trophy in 50 years, and adding plenty more domestic silverwares in the next two years, it was not enough to please the owner who wants to conquer Europe. The decent two semi-final finishes in the Champions’ League, that could have elicited cheers in others’ boardroom, were still below expectations for Abramovich.
But Mourinho left 20 million pounds richer. It’s his separation package since his contract run till 2010. He is proud of his achievements, and it will surely be imbedded in the team’s history. I salute him for that.
The English media, the Liverpool, Arsenal and Manchester United fans will surely miss him. Rafael Benitez (Liverpool), and Arsene Wenger (Arsenal) will miss the “Special One’s” snide remarks. The rest of the managers (other than the managers of the top 4) are just too boring.
His parting words:
"I am very proud of my work in Chelsea Football Club and I think my decision in May 2004 to come to England was an excellent one," said Mourinho.
"It was a beautiful and rich period of my career. I want to thank all Chelsea FC supporters for what I believe is a never-ending love story.
"I wish great success to the club, a club that will be forever connected to me for some historical moments.
"I wish the players happiness in football and in their family life. Finally on my wife's and children' s behalf we thank the great professionalism of their school teachers and the beauty of so many friends." quoted from BBC
I am saddened by all of these. I have mentioned before that I am a Mourinho fan. Does it mean that it is my goodbye for Chelsea as well?
Monday, July 30, 2007
If They Can't Win With Arms
Photo from Dita Alangkara/APIf they can’t win it with arms, they can do it with their feet.
That’s how Iraq, a war-torn country, conquered Asia. Or at least in football, in the 2007 AFC Asian Cup. Their football team beat the highly favoured South Korean team on penalties in the semis. And now, they turned the tables against another favourite: Saudi Arabia. They won 1-0 courtesy of their captain.
It was a very emotional moment for a team who can’t even go home to celebrate. Someone can get killed even with the revelry.
If they have done it, why can’t we Filipinos? We did not even qualify for this event.
That’s how Iraq, a war-torn country, conquered Asia. Or at least in football, in the 2007 AFC Asian Cup. Their football team beat the highly favoured South Korean team on penalties in the semis. And now, they turned the tables against another favourite: Saudi Arabia. They won 1-0 courtesy of their captain.
It was a very emotional moment for a team who can’t even go home to celebrate. Someone can get killed even with the revelry.
If they have done it, why can’t we Filipinos? We did not even qualify for this event.
On the other hand, I just learned today that we beat China 79-74 in the 24th FIBA-Asia Men's Basketball tournament. We were not really against their best team, but it's good to know that we bounced back after that opening day loss to Iran.
Wednesday, May 02, 2007
The Best Team Lost
I am disappointed, frustrated and sad. But I cannot shed a tear right now. Why in the world am I affected with this when everything happened at the other side of the globe? I was not there at Anfield at the time of the killing. I am not even a party to all of these. They don’t know anything about me. I am just a mere fan coming from basketball fanatic nation. I have not lost in a bet, too. But why, oh why I am sad today as I surfed the web?
My daily web routines include a click to my blog, and then to this site. This particular news really, really saddened me. Though I no longer have sleepless nights watching games at dawn because we cut off our cable subscription, I could still dream of the result. I was hoping for a different outcome.
Yes, I’m talking about the 2nd leg of the semi-final game of UEFA Champions’ League between Liverpool and Chelsea. “The best team was knocked out of the competition”. This is the preferred quote of my favorite manager, and whatever he says I will agree.
For the second time in three years, the same team knocked Chelsea out at the same stage of the competition. First, it was a lucky (contested) goal. Now, it’s the penalties. Chelsea’s dream of a quadruple is ambushed. And it’s Liverpool again topping the best team. I better not cry nor write like a sore loser. Liverpool fans are all happy right now. May you win it again in Athens!
And I, like the rest of the Chelsea squad and their few believers, will dream again in the next season. I just hope ‘the Special One’ will still be there to guide them through.
My daily web routines include a click to my blog, and then to this site. This particular news really, really saddened me. Though I no longer have sleepless nights watching games at dawn because we cut off our cable subscription, I could still dream of the result. I was hoping for a different outcome.
Yes, I’m talking about the 2nd leg of the semi-final game of UEFA Champions’ League between Liverpool and Chelsea. “The best team was knocked out of the competition”. This is the preferred quote of my favorite manager, and whatever he says I will agree.
For the second time in three years, the same team knocked Chelsea out at the same stage of the competition. First, it was a lucky (contested) goal. Now, it’s the penalties. Chelsea’s dream of a quadruple is ambushed. And it’s Liverpool again topping the best team. I better not cry nor write like a sore loser. Liverpool fans are all happy right now. May you win it again in Athens!
And I, like the rest of the Chelsea squad and their few believers, will dream again in the next season. I just hope ‘the Special One’ will still be there to guide them through.
Thursday, March 08, 2007
Champion's League - again
I woke up 4am today and watched Manchester United (England) vs Lille (France) in one channel, and Bayern Munich (Germany) vs Real Madrid (Spain) in another channel for the European Champion’s League round of 16.There was no problem waking up, though I was all alone in my hotel room in Malate. I was just so excited watching the games live on TV that I slept at 1030pm and set the alarm at 4am. Had I arrived here in Manila a day earlier, I would have watched my team Chelsea dump Porto at Stamford Bridge.
Ron Makaay of Bayern Munich scored the fastest goal in Champion League’s history. He put in the goal at 10 seconds at the start of regulation. Crazy football! Shame on the many-time European Champion Real Madrid! They were knocked out on away goals despite leading 3-2 in the first encounter. Fabio Capello must be shivering right now. Plenty of Madridista may again demand his resignation.
As expected, Manchester United waylaid little-known Lille. Their first encounter last month was very controversial. But the better team prevailed this time. Last year’s losing finalist, Arsenal (England), was knocked out by PSV Eindhoven (Dutch). The Champion’s League was the last of the trophies attainable by them this season. In another match, AC Milan (Italy) held on after scoring over Celtic (Scotland) in extra time.
The other day, the reigning champion Barcelona (Spain), was knocked out by 2005 champion Liverpool (England). Chelsea (England) drubbed Porto (Portugal), after a first half scare. Valencia (Spain) and Inter Milan (Italy) involved in some trouble. Valencia emerged the victor, but at a cost of many players that may be sanctioned. In another battle, AS Roma (Italy) held off French Champion Lyon.
So, here’s the final 8.
AS Roma (Italy)
Valencia (Spain)
Liverpool (England)
Chelsea (England)
Bayern Munich (Germany)
Manchester United (England)
AC Milan (Italy)
PSV (Dutch)
Three English teams in the final eight. This could speak of the superiority of the English League over the others, at this moment. But there will always be surprises. My Chelsea team is still alive and running for the trophies in all competition they entered. They already got their Carling Cup. The Champion’s League is still their ultimate goal this season. Go Chelsea!
Tuesday, December 19, 2006
Football Again
I always thought that the best football clubs and players in the world are all in Europe, regardless of their original nationality. And the other domestic clubs are left with either the promising, second-rate, or beyond-the-peak players. The culprit: Money. These footballers are like gods for their fans. Then some wealthy European Club snatch them up and offer them and their clubs money.
Football is business after all. But I am not to dwell on that. And business is good for the game.
In the most recent FIFA World Club Championship held in Japan, the South American side prevailed. Internacionales of Brazil eked out a 1-0 victory over Barcelona, the current UEFA Champion’s League and La Liga Cup holder. So who are the stars of Internacionales? I don’t know. Names are familiar though, but they are just namesakes of other famous players in Europe.
So what’s the final score? From 1980 up to the present, South American clubs prevailed 14-13, over their wealthy European counterpart. The 2005 edition saw Sao Paulo crushed Liverpool.
On the latest FIFA rankings, Brazil sits on top despite not winning the world cup. The current world champion, Italy, is second. And what about the Philippines? We're at 171, an improvement from 184 last month.
Football is business after all. But I am not to dwell on that. And business is good for the game.
In the most recent FIFA World Club Championship held in Japan, the South American side prevailed. Internacionales of Brazil eked out a 1-0 victory over Barcelona, the current UEFA Champion’s League and La Liga Cup holder. So who are the stars of Internacionales? I don’t know. Names are familiar though, but they are just namesakes of other famous players in Europe.
So what’s the final score? From 1980 up to the present, South American clubs prevailed 14-13, over their wealthy European counterpart. The 2005 edition saw Sao Paulo crushed Liverpool.
On the latest FIFA rankings, Brazil sits on top despite not winning the world cup. The current world champion, Italy, is second. And what about the Philippines? We're at 171, an improvement from 184 last month.
Thursday, December 07, 2006
Football Crazy
Ever since we had cable TV, I’ve been following European football closely. This is now the third year wherein I woke up at dawn (or deferred sleep) just to watch the Champion’s League. Chelsea is my favorite team. And Jose Mourinho is my favorite manager. Though I’m miles away, I am following them thru the internet, magazines and cable TV.I saw live on TV the thrashing of Barcelona by Chelsea, the controversial loss to Liverpool in the semis, and the amazing comeback of the Reds against the highly favored AC Milan, all in 2004.
In 2005, my Chelsea team got drubbed by Barcelona, who ultimately became champs after displaying beautiful football against Arsenal.
Just this early dawn, I watched how Manchester United came from behind to
beat Benfica (3-1), who scared them with an amazing drive that hit the net early in the first half. This same team trounced Man U out early in the eliminations last year.
My team would still be Chelsea. I hope they’ll win the EPL, the UEFA Champion’s League and all the cups available.
But, do I play football? I quit the high school football club on the second day of training. I hated jogging ten rounds (plus ten more if I came late). I played softball and badminton, but I envied the soccer players who attracted most of the fans.
Just a little bit of info here: Barcelona’s all-time leading scorer, Paulino Alcantara, is a Filipino. He is the first Asian football superstar. Perhaps, we were once a football-crazy nation, before we were colonized by the Americans.
Just this early dawn, I watched how Manchester United came from behind to
beat Benfica (3-1), who scared them with an amazing drive that hit the net early in the first half. This same team trounced Man U out early in the eliminations last year.My team would still be Chelsea. I hope they’ll win the EPL, the UEFA Champion’s League and all the cups available.
But, do I play football? I quit the high school football club on the second day of training. I hated jogging ten rounds (plus ten more if I came late). I played softball and badminton, but I envied the soccer players who attracted most of the fans.
Just a little bit of info here: Barcelona’s all-time leading scorer, Paulino Alcantara, is a Filipino. He is the first Asian football superstar. Perhaps, we were once a football-crazy nation, before we were colonized by the Americans.
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