26.07. (Tue) 18:15 Barcelona - Internacional

DID YOU KNOW?

Barcelona and Internacional last met in the final of the Club World Cup in 2006 and although the Catalans were big favourites, the Brazilian side came out on top.

Pep Guardiola's side set off to the United States on a tour after this competition, and will meet Manchester United in a repeat of the teams' Champions League final at the end of May.

This pre-season is Guardiola's fourth as coach of the Catalan club, but the Barca boss won't be handing a debut to new signing Alexis Sanchez, who will be given extra rest following the recent Copa America, along with Lionel Messi and Dani Alves.

Internacional midfielder Fabio Rochemback moved to Barcelona as a replacement for Guardiola in 2001.

Dunga, Alex, Branco and Claudio Taffarel are other notable stars to have played for the Porto Alegre-based side, whose closest rivals are Gremio, where Ronaldinho emerged.

Internacional have twice won the Copa Libertadores, in 2006 and 2010.

PROBABLE LINE-UPS

Barcelona (4-3-3)
Pinto; Dalmau, Fontas, Abidal, Maxwell; Thiago, Busquets, Iniesta; Jeffren, Villa, Afellay

Barcelona coach Pep Guardiola is likely to name a stronger side for his team's second pre-season match on Tuesday against Internacional. The Barca coach selected a different XI in each half for the goalless draw versus Hajduk Split at the weekend and are set to be without Pedro, Xavi, Carles Puyol and Gerard Pique once again.


Internacional (4-3-1-2)
Renan; Nei, Bolivar, Rodrigo, Kleber; Mario Bolatti, Pablo Guinazu, Andrezinho; Andres D'Alessandro; Ze Roberto, Leandro Damiao.

Internacional are likely to see this clash as a much more prestigious affair and should select a strong side for the game against Barcelona, including former Argentine international midfielder Andres D'Alessandro and Tottenham target Leandro Damiao.


Prediction

Barcelona were unable to score against Hajduk Split, but they should be more in tune for this match and will be keen to gain some revenge for their 2006 World Club Cup loss, even if the players are different. Expect a stronger side from Guardiola and a better performance. This should be reasonably comfortable for the Catalans, although Internacional will be in superior shape.

Barcelona 3-1 Internacional

Read More

26.07. (Tue) 20:30 Bayern Munchen - Milan

DID YOU KNOW?

Bayern won the first and only prior Audi Cup in 2009, edging Manchester United in the final following a penalty shoot-out.

The Germans have spent an estimated €47 million on transfers this summer, bringing in the likes of Manuel Neuer, Jerome Boateng, and Rafinha.

Jupp Heynckes' side have failed to win their last two pre-season friendlies during regular time, having lost to Hamburg before overcoming Mainz in penalties.

The Bavarians begin their competitive season on August 1 as they take on Eintracht Braunschweig in the DFB Pokal.

AC Milan won their first warm-up friendly of the pre-season against minnows Solbiatese, a 12-0 victory.

The Serie A winners have their first competitive match of the season just ten days after the Audi Cup final, the Supercoppa Italiana against Inter.

Owner Silvio Berlusconi has opted not to dip deep into his coffers this summer: Milan have only paid transfer fees this summer for Stephan El Shaarawy, Marco Amelia, and youngster Gianmario Comi. They also completed Zlatan Ibrahimovic's signing with a €24m payment to Barcelona.

Pato, Thiago Silva, Robinho, and Mario Yepes will meet up with the Milan squad in Munich following a short holiday. The South American quartet had until recently been on international duty at the Copa America.

PROBABLE LINE-UPS


Bayern Munich:
Neuer; Rafinha, Boateng, Badstuber, Lahm; Luiz Gustavo, Schweinsteiger; Robben, Muller, Usami; Gomez

Bayern had a scare on Sunday when Franck Ribery collapsed during training after taking a blow to his ankle. He has been ruled out of the Audi Cup, and could also miss the Bundesliga kick-off. Otherwise, the hosts will be at full strength.

AC Milan:
Abbiati; Abate, Nesta, Silva, Zambrotta; Flamini, Van Bommel, Seedorf; Boateng; Ibrahimovic, Robinho

Massimiliano Allegri has a full squad available, but in all likelihood will only field a half-team, with the Italian Supercoppa on the horizon. He will nonetheless be keen to get a good run-out from his players, who have only had one test match thus far.

Prediction

If this match were played a few months into the season it might be different, but for now, the hosts are far more prepared. They haven't hit top gear, but the added practice of playing in many friendlies and training for longer gives them a distinct edge.

Bayern Munich 2-1 AC Milan

Read More

24.07. (Sun) 21:00 Uruguay - Paraguay

DID YOU KNOW?

Uruguay, 14-time winners of the Copa America/South American Championship along with Argentina, are seeking to win the tournament for a record 15th time on Sunday.

The 2011 final is La Celeste's 21st final appearance, the last time they negotiated their way to this stage was in 1999 when they succumbed to a 3-0 defeat at the hands of Brazil.

Oscar Tabarez's men secured their passage to Monumental by overcoming surprise packages Peru 2-0 in their semi-final. They had dumped out hosts Argentina on penalties following a 1-1 draw in the quarter-final.

Luis Suarez is currently the tournament's joint-top scorer with three goals, along with Argentina's Sergio Aguero. The Liverpool striker could become the first Uruguayan, joint or outright, to become top scorer of the Copa since Carlos Aguilera was named joint-top scorer of the 1983 edition.

Uruguay, now the overwhelming favourites, prevailed the last time the two nations met. Diego Forlan and Diego Lugano's goals secured a 2-0 win back in 2009 in a World Cup qualifier.

Paraguay are yet to win a game in the 2011 Copa America after recording five successive draws, two of which have been settled on penalties.

Nevertheless, the Guarani have secured a passage to the final, something they haven't achieved for 32 years.

Gerardo Martino's men have astonishingly only led for a grand total of 52 minutes in the tournament, out of the 510 minutes of football they have endured.

'La Albirroja' are bidding for their third Copa America, having won the 1953 and 1979 editions.

Despite their pragmatic defensive approach to the game, this has been Paraguay's best performance at the Copa America since their previous win, bettering their fourth place finish in 1989.

Captain Justo Villar and defender Paulo Da Silva will win their 95th cap for their nation in the final.

PROBABLE LINE-UPS

Uruguay:
Muslera; M. Pereira, Lugano, Victorino, Caceres, A. Pereira; Gonzalez, Perez, Rios; Forlan, Suarez.

La Celeste are set to welcome back Diego Perez into the line-up for the final in Buenos Aires on Sunday evening. The Bologna midfielder, who scored against Argentina in the quarter-final, missed the win over Peru due to suspension. Oscar Tabarez will also call upon Mauricio Victorino from injury after he sat out the semi-final. Controversy has surrounded the potential recall of Edinson Cavani for the showpiece, with the Napoli hitman struggling to recover from a knee injury suffered in the group stage. This has not gone down well with his club president Aurelio De Laurentiis who stated that he is prepared to take serious action if Uruguay play the unfit striker.

Paraguay:
Villar; Da Silva, Veron, Torres, Vera; Barreto, Caceres, Riveros, Estigarribia; Barrios, Valdez

Paraguay have been hit with disciplinary issues ahead of the showdown with Uruguay. Coach Gerardo Martino and assistant Jorge Pautasso have both been given touchline bans and will watch from the stands in Buenos Aires. No player has been individually punished following the mass brawl that ensued after the penalty shootout win over Venezuela in the semi-final. However, Jonathan Santana will miss the final after his red card during the game. Another worry for the Guarani surrounds Roque Santa Cruz who came on, and then went off within minutes, clutching his right hamstring. Otherwise, Paraguay will revert to their strongest possible line-up having introduced four changes in their last game.

Prediction

La Celeste have found their feet as the tournament progressed, with Liverpool sharpshooter Luis Suarez bagging a clinical brace in the semi-final. With Paraguay looking uncertain apart front with Roque Santa Cruz's injury problems, the defensive Guarani may find it hard to pick apart the attack-minded opposition. After enduring two straight penalty shootouts, it's likely that Martino's men will overcome Uruguay. 

Uruguay 2-0 Paraguay

Read More

24.07. (Sun) 03:00 Philadelphia Union - Real

DID YOU KNOW?

Real Madrid beat Chivas de Guadalajara 3-0 on Saturday. Cristiano Ronaldo scored a second-half hat-trick to upend the Mexican outfit.

The Union have already taken one European scalp, beating Everton 1-0 on Wednesday. Christian Hernandez, an unsigned 17-year-old academy player, scored the winner.

This is Madrid's third game of their tour of the United States. Prior to the Chivas friendly, the Copa del Rey champions beat the LA Galaxy 4-1.

Philly attacking midfielder Veljko Paunovic formerly suited up for Atletico Madrid, Real's cross-town neighbour. However, a hip strain might prevent the 33-year-old from taking part.

Faryd Mondragon will line up for the MLS All-Stars against Manchester United on Wednesday. He is the only Union representative.

PROBABLE LINEUPS

Philadelphia Union (4-4-2): 
MacMath; Williams, Valdes, Miglioranzi, Farfan; Mapp, Okugo, Torres, Daniel; Mclnerney, Mwanga.

INJURY REPORT

OUT: FW Levi Houapeu (ankle strain)

QUESTIONABLE: FW Veljko Paunovic (hip strain); MF Kyle Nakazawa (lower back strain)

Real Madrid (4-3-1-2):
Adan; Arbeloa, Pepe, Varane, Marcelo; Ozil, Granero, Coentrao; Kaka, Ronaldo, Benzema.

INJURY REPORT : None

Prediction
Philadelphia Union 1-3 Real Madrid

Read More

17.07. (Sun) 21:00 Brazil - Paraguay

DID YOU KNOW?

Brazil are the defending champions of the Copa America, having won in Venezuela in 2007.

The Selecao qualified for the quarter finals in unconvincing fashion, having been held to draws against the Guarani and Venezuela, before coming out on top in a thrilling 4-2 win against Ecuador.

Neymar and Pato both chipped in with a brace of goals as Brazil qualified as Group B winners.

The winner of this tie faces a semi-final showdown against Chile or Venezuela in Mendoza on July 20.

Mano Menezes' men are unbeaten in six games, since a 1-0 reverse to France in Paris in February.

Paraguay qualified by virtue of being one of two best third-placed sides.

The Guarani are yet to taste victory in the 2011 Copa America, having been held to a draw in all three of their group games.

However, Gerardo Martino's men - who came close to defeating Brazil in this year's tournament before being pegged back by a 90th-minute equaliser, have history in winning against the Selecao in the Copa, doing so en route to topping their group in 2004.

Roque Santa Cruz has become the joint all-time leading scorer of his nation, having grabbed a record-equalling 25th strike against Brazil in the 2-2 draw earlier in the group stages. The record, taken from Jose Cardozo, had stood for six years.

PROBABLE LINE-UPS

Brazil:
Julio Cesar; Maicon, Lucio, David Luiz, Andre Santos; Lucas Leiva, Ramires; Robinho, Ganso, Neymar; Alexandre Pato

Mano Menezes looks set to to be without Thiago Silva for the clash against Paraguay. The AC Milan defender is struggling with a right thigh muscle injury and missed out on Friday training with the team, instead going through a session with the physio. David Luiz is expected to replace Thiago Silva in the heart of a somewhat leaky defence, whilst Mano also has the luxury of Luisao - a member of the past two Copa America-winning sides - in the squad to partner Lucio. Maicon, who caught the eye with an assured performance in the 4-2 win over Ecuador, will also be likely to be given the nod ahead of the unimpressive Daniel Alves as the Selecao look to seal a semi-final spot.

Paraguay:
Villar; Piris, Da Silva, Veron, Torres; Barreto, Ortigoza, Riveros, Estigarribia; Santa Cruz, Barrios

Paraguay coach Gerardo Martino is sweating on the fitness of key striker Roque Santa Cruz. The Blackburn forward was forced off during the thrilling 3-3 draw with Venezuela and was replaced by Nelson Haedo Valdez. The tactician, who is due to leave his post following the Copa America, added: "We will give it another day and wait on the results of tests."


Prediction

Despite a rather indifferent start to the tournament, the Selecao have sprung into life with an assured display against Ecuador. Neymar and Pato finally look to have found the goals having struck four between them. A slender win for Mano's men looks to be the most likely outcome, with Paraguay looking set to be without Roque Santa Cruz to trouble a dodgy Brazilian backline.

Brazil 2-1 Paraguay

Read More

16.-18. 07. 2011. Copa America, Quarter Finals

Colombia - Peru

Looking good for the favourites in the quarter finals, but maybe one or two of them are a bit underpriced. Colombia are not one of them. I have backed Colombia to win the tournament and they have so far lived up to my expectations but Peru will be no pushovers. Their qualifying campaign for the World Cup 2010 was a complete disaster and I expected Peru, without their aces Farfan and Pizarro, to struggle big time in this Copa America competition. I was 100% wrong. OK,it could be that they will have more problems playing open football, the kind of football that I should think that we will see in the quarter finals. Well, we already saw this brand of football the other day. Peru fielded a reserve side against Chile, but for this match their big guns, including Guerrero and Vargas, will all be back. Defender Carmona will be suspended.

Open football should favour the Colombia giants Falcao and Guarin. Not that there is anything wrong with the Colombian defence. They have yet to concede a single goal. Colombia have the better team and they also have these outstanding individuals and they should win this quarter final.

Argentina - Uruguay

Beating the young Costa Rican talents comfortably was nothing to write home about - but you sense that it was a major confidence booster for the Argentine side. Messi needed to play a strong game, their forwards needed to score a couple of goals and I do think that Argentina will only get better after their 3-0 win vs. C Rica.

A cynic would say: They have only defeated the Costa Rican second choices. Maybe they are right, but a strong home team, in this case Argentina, will always be the team to beat in the tournament.

Surely coach Batista will continue with Messi in a free, offensive midfield role and with Aguero, Higuain and Di Maria from the start. Confirmed! Argentina will be unchanged. Lavezzi will sit out his suspension .

Cavani, the Uruguay forward, is still training individually and hopefully he will be fit for this quarter final. It is a knee injury and I have serious doubts. Caceres will be back to play, but his defensive colleague S Coates will be suspended. Forlan did everything but score for Uruguay in their last game, vs. Mexico and he is bound to find the target pretty soon. Why not in this match? Time for Uruguay to play a strong game after some rather mediocre displays, but at the same time I expect more from Argentina as well. Both sides on the score sheet will be my suggestion and Argentina the winners after the 90 minutes.

Brazil - Paraguay

Maybe they were not brilliant, but at last I enjoyed watching Brazil playing their football again. I am of course referring to their 4-2 win against Ecuador. Their much over rated keeper J Cesar played with his Vaseline gloves again, but offensively Brazil looked strong, with both Pato and Neymar scoring their goals. And what a difference Maicon made, replacing D Alves as wing back. I still hold Cesar responsible for the Brazil loss against Holland in the World Cup in South Africa.

Paraguay have yet to win a game in this Copa America, but they were only minutes from defeating Brazil in the group stage. Santa Cruz was involved in both their goals, but I cannot imagine that he will be fit for this quarter final. He suffered an injury against Ecuador. I am no doctor, but it did not look good. A better Brazil for this match and they will reach the semi final.

Chile - Venezuela

Venezulua have been constantly underestimated. I am a sucker for speed. Not that kind of speed. I mean fast footballers. I like the way that Venezuela keep changing the pace, when they are going forward. Rondon, Oroszo, players with great future. Arango, Cesar Gonzalez, Miku and Maldonaldo, all started on the bench, when Venezuela played their last group game (3-3 vs. Paraguay).

They will be back in contention for this match and once again Venezuela have a squad free from injuries.

Also Chile rested players in their last group game, in fact six of their regulars. All will be back, apart from the suspended Beausejour for this quarter final. Vidal will replace Beausejour on their midfield. Carmona and Medel will also start, maybe fit again M Fernandez as well. Valdivia will be used as a substitute. Chile play some very nice football, no doubt about that, but they are not the most effective side around. Quite an open game in my opinion. I expect goals from both parties. Over game in other words. The winners? I have to include one outsider in my bets. OK, Venezuela then.

Read More

17.07. (Sun) 00:15 Argentina - Uruguay

DID YOU KNOW?

Argentina escaped Group A with five points, finishing in second place.

The host nation could only manage one goal from their first two games in the competition, but they came alive in the last game against Costa Rica, winning 3-0.

Striker Sergio Aguero is the leading scorer in the tournament with three goals, including a brace against Costa Rica.

This will be Argentina's second game in Santa Fe in the Copa America. They drew 0-0 against Colombia in their first appearance in the province.

The winner of the contest will face the victor of Colombia and Peru in the semi-finals in La Plata on Tuesday.

Uruguay finished second in Group C with five points, two behind winners Chile.

The leading scorer on the team in the tournament is not Forlan, Suarez or Cavani; it is defender Alvaro Pereira, who has two goals.

A win would clinch Uruguay's fifth straight appearance in the semi-finals.

The last meeting that took place between the two sides was in October 2009 when a Mario Bolatti goal six minutes from time clinched Argentina's qualification to the World Cup in South Africa.

Cavani will not play as he is still recuperating from a knee injury suffered against Chile in their second game. The striker did not play in the 1-0 victory over Mexico.


PROBABLE LINE-UPS

Argentina:
Romero; Zabaleta, Burdisso, G. Milito, Zanetti; Gago, Mascherano; Aguero, Messi, Di Maria; Higuain.

No changes for Argentina as Sergio Batista calls the same line-up that earned a 3-0 victory against Costa Rica last time out.

Uruguay:
Muslera; M. Pereira, Lugano, Victorino, Caceres, A. Pereira; Gonzalez, Perez, Rios; Forlan, Suarez.

Oscar Tabarez will look to Diego Forlan and Luis Suarez to find the net against their neighbors as they are shorthanded with the absence of Edinson Cavani, who is still recovering from injury.

Prediction

Anything less than winning the tournament would be a failure for Sergio Batista's men. Now in the quarter-finals, Argentina should get a step closer to their dream with the potent attack of Lionel Messi, Gonzalo Higuain, Sergio Aguero and Angel Di Maria. If they can create chances at the same pace they did against Costa Rica, the host nation should be able to put a few away and advance past Uruguay. 

Editor's Prediction

Argentina 2-1 Uruguay

Read More

16.07. (Sat) 21:00 Colombia - Peru

DID YOU KNOW?

Colombia won Group A with seven points, sending them to Cordoba for the quarter-final contest.

The South Americans are the only team not to have conceded thus far in the Copa.

In the last two competitive meetings, Colombia won one and drew the other against Peru in the Conmebol 2010 World Cup Qualifiers.

A win would take Colombia to their first semi-finals since 2004 when they lost to Argentina 3-0.

Falcao is Colombia's top scorer with two goals after bagging a brace in the 2-0 win over Bolivia to finish out their group stage matches.

The winner of the contest will play the winner of Argentina and Uruguay in the next round for a spot in the final.

Peru advanced to the quarter-finals as the top third-placed team with four points.

The Peruvians have made the quarter-finals six consecutive times in the Copa America.

Peru have not made it to the semi-finals since the 1997 tournament when they beat Argentina 2-1 in the quarter-finals before losing 7-0 to Brazil in the last four.

Paolo Guerrero has scored both of Peru's goals in the tournament so far.

PROBABLE LINE-UPS

Colombia:
Martinez; Zuniga, Yepes, Perea, Armero; Sanchez, Guarin, Aguilar, Moreno, Ramos; Falcao.

Colombia will opt for the same starting XI that earned a 2-0 victory over Bolivia in their last outing, with star striker Radamel Falcao leading the attack.

Peru:
Libman, Acasiete, Vilchez, Carmona, Rodriguez; Vargas, Cruzado, Labonton, Balbin; Guerrero, Advincula.

Juan Manuel Vargas and Paolo Guerrero are the main changes from the squad that fell 1-0 to Chile. The stars are back after receiving a breather in the final game having already qualified for the quarter-finals.

Prediction

Colombia's defence has been the best out of any team thus far in the Copa America. If they can make it four consecutive games without allowing a goal, the attack led by Radamel Falcao should be able to convert on a couple chances and secure their participation in the semi-finals.

Editor's Prediction

Colombia 2-0 Peru

Read More

14.07. (Thu) 02:45 Brazil - Ecuador

Just a little kid I watched Brazil winning the 1958 World Cup in Sweden. Ever since there has been a certain magic around the Brazilian national side. You have always been able to rely on Brazil playing some brilliant stuff from time to time. Not these days. This side is quite lacklustre. No brilliance to be found. OK, they are building a side for their own World Cup 2014, but some individual magic has always been a Brazilian trademark. Ganso I like though. Rare mistakes by the Brazilian defence proved costly against Paraguay.

Brazil are in a must win situation and they are a facing a rather poor Ecuador side. Surely things cannot go wrong for the Brazilians. Their coach is indicating that he could make one or two changes for this match. Neymar out?

Will Valencia be fit to play for Ecuador? I doubt that he will take any risks and my guess is that he is out of this final? game for Ecuador. I have heard rumours that he will be playing after all, but I have my doubts. Same old ankle is troubling him. Very likely win for the favourites.

Read More

14.07. (Thu) 00:15 Paraguay - Venezuela

My warning for Venezuela ahead of this tournament has proved right. They dominated their match against Ecuador, outshooting their opponents 13-6. The Gonzalez goal was enough to win the match. Rondon started the match on the bench and Venezuela are a bit lightweight in their front line.

Venezuela have already qualified for the quarter finals and they will be looking for the draw in this game. I expect them to play rather defensively. They are free from injuries and suspensions.

Paraguay, with only two points this far, will of course go for the win. Santa Cruz scored against Brazil, but he also missed an absolute sitter. Anyway the Blackburn striker is looking strong again after a lengthy lean spell. Paraguay won both their qualifying games against Venezuela in the World Cup 2010 qualifying group, but Venezuela are an improved outfit and they should not be underestimated.

Maybe Paraguay have been made too big favourites in this fixture.

Read More

13.07. (Wed) 02:45 Uruguay - Mexico

I had no problems with the 1.70 on the Uruguayan win but sorry it is now down to 1.57. They have everything to play for and they are facing probably the worst side in the tournament, the Mexican reserves. I do not think that Uruguay have reached their full potential, but that goes for almost every other side in this Copa America. There is one set back for Uruguay, as Cavani will be sidelined for this game. Defence man M Caceres will also be missing, suspended. Not the end of the world, but bit of a worry. Abel Hernandez will probably slot in for Cavani. A Pereira will play on the Caceres position and C Rodriguez will play on their midfield.

Mexico need to win this match to have any chance of reaching the quarter final. They are without points so far. Only fair, I would suggest, as they have created very few scoring chances in their two games. Still they will make an honest attempt of winning the match. Uruguay to win is the only outcome for this writer.

Read More

13.07. (Wed) 00:15 Chile - Peru

Two things to remember, both sides have already reached the quarter finals. There is a dismal relationship between these two nations and I do not expect a friendly game ending in a draw. Well, there could of course be a draw, but not an arranged one.

Decent odds on the win for Chile but then again Peru have done nothing wrong so far. Both these sides drew with Uruguay and defeated Mexico, but in my opinion Chile are potentially much stronger than Peru. Especially against Peruvians missing Pizarro and Farfan. Chile finished their game against Uruguay the stronger side and I enjoy watching the Chileans playing their football. They could be more effective, however. Valdivia impressed as a substitute and I expect him to start this match. About the M Fernandez injury situation I have to say that I do not know.

Vargas was back in the Peruvian starting line up vs. Mexico and he was man of the match. The Peruvian winning goal came late in the game, but their win was much deserved, with Peru hitting the wood work on a couple of occasions. Peru have demonstrated that they can play some decent football without their aces Pizarro and Farfan, but I expect Chile to win this fixture. They probably need to win the match to win this group and they should absolutely go for the three points. Chile then.

Read More

12.07. (Tue) 02:45 Argentina - Costa Rica

You just have to like this precarious situation that Argentina, the home favourites, have put themselves in, if you are a neutral like myself. Under extreme pressure they will be up against this young, talented, but pretty unorganised Costa Rican side, a Costa Rican side with absolutely nothing to lose. You can imagine that J Campbell and his young colleagues in the Costa Rican side will enjoy this match, but it will be quite an ordeal for Messi and his gang.

However I think that Argentina will be the winners. As I said, Costa Rica are not a well organised side and Argentina should be able to take advantage of their shortcomings.It looks like the Argentine coach Batista will at last make some necessary changes for this match. Out with the ineffective duo Lavezzi and Tevez. One of Cambiasso and Banega will also step aside with Gago starting on their midfield. Higuain will play as the lone striker with Messi as an attacking midfielder, joined by Aguero and Di Maria. Sounds already much better.

Costa Rica will be without one of their key players Guzman, who will sit out a suspension. Brenes will be back. Argentina to win, but the odds are quite useless.

Read More

11.-12. 07. 2011 DEJAN STANKOVIĆ, TRENER U AUSTRIJI, UOČI STARTA DRUGE LIGE

Dugo Dejan Stanković živi i radi u Austriji. Ovog leta postao je trener i menadžer nižerazrednog kluba iz Leobena, a o dešavanjima u austrijskom fudbalskom svetu zna sve što je nama potrebno.
- Glavnu reč vodiće Altah – bio je odgovor Stankovića na pitanje ko je favorit za prvo mesto. - Prethodne sezone malo mu je falilo da se domogne Prve lige, a radi se o ozbiljnom i ambicioznom klubu, najjačem u ovom rangu.
Ko bi mogao da mu pokvari posao?
- LASK je ispao iz elite, podrazumeva se da želi brz povratak, ima dobrog trenera, ali sa finansijama ne stoji sjajno. Pre bih tipovao na Sent Andru, koja takođe ima odličnog stručnjaka, solidan tim, a problem sa novcem ne postoji.
Na koga se kladiti u prvom kolu?
- Altah bi trebalo da slavi na svom terenu, a mislim da će i Linc do bodova na debiju pred svojim navijačima, kojih će na gradskom stadionu možda da bude i čitavih deset hiljada – najavljuje Stanković.
ALTAH – VIENA 1

St. Pelten – St. Andra X2
FK Luštenau – LASK 1
Gredig – A. Luštenau 1X
Linc – Hartberg 1

Read More

09.07. (Sat) 23:30 Venezuela - Ecuador

Backing the better odds! I should think that both these sides will come to this game in a very positive frame of mind. Venezuela for sure, as their 0-0 draw with Brazil was a great result, while the Ecuador 0-0 with Paraguay game was more of a normal result.

One point separated these two sides in the South American World cup qualifying group 2010, with Ecuador one point ahead of Venezuela in the table. Then you should know that Venezuela won away to Ecuador and that is almost impossible. Yes, Venezuela won both fixtures. It looks like Ecuador will be forced to play without the M United winger Valencia. Big blow, of course. Backing Venezuela.

Prediction


Venezuela 2-1 Ecuador

Read More

09.07. (Sat) 21:00 Brazil - Paraguay

I thought that Brazil would be on fire when they came out for the second half against Venezuela. I mean, they were not that bad in the first half. Only a goal was missing, but their display in the second half was a huge let down. Still it is early in the tournament, it is freezing cold everywhere, but what I have seen this far Europe need not worry. They are ruling the football world.

Paraguay looked alright, but much expected there was not much goal mouth action in their game vs. Ecuador. Paraguay were the better side, created the best chances, but Elizaga, the Ecuador keeper, saved his team. The Atalanta midfielder E Barreto will miss this match. E Vera or Caceres will replace him. The Wigan defender Alcaraz will play instead of Piris in their defence.

Da Silva and Veron rule the Paraguayan defence and I foresee breakthrough problems for the Brazilian strikers. Pato caused numerous offsides the other day, Neymar was not much of a threat and Robinho is certainly no Ronaldo. Spain, the best team in the world, could just about score the one goal against Paraguay in the World Cup and Brazil will most likely struggle for goals tomorrow.

Predictions

Brazil 1-0 Paraguay

Read More

09.07. (Sat) 02:45 Peru - Mexico

DID YOU KNOW?

Peru held the tournament's dark horses Uruguay to a spirited 1-1 draw to kick-start their Copa America campaign.

Sergio Markarian's men, who have been quarter-finalists or better in the last five editions of the tournament, will be a step closer to the next round should they defeat Mexico.

La Rojiblanca, ranked 49 in the world, prevailed the last time they faced El Tri in the Copa America, winning 1-0 in the 2001 edition in Colombia.

Walter Vilchez is the most experienced in the squad, having won 56 caps for the team, who have 10 players who have 10 caps or less to their name.

Mexico slipped to a 2-1 defeat against Chile in their tournament opener, after Nestor Araujo's effort was cancelled out by Esteban Paredes and Arturo Vidal's goals for La Roja.

El Tri have never won the Copa America since their invitation in 1993, although they have come runners-up twice in 1993 and 2001, whilst finishing third place on three occasions.

The Concacaf Gold Cup holders, are largely inexperienced for this tournament as stellar names have been rested after their successful exploits in the Gold Cup last month.

The defeat against Chile was El Tri's first in 14 international matches stretching back to last September. It also interrupted a run of seven straight wins.

The previous encounter between the two sides ended in a resounding 4-0 victory for Mexico, who hold a slight head-to-head advantage over Peru.

PROBABLE LINE-UPS

Peru:
Fernandez; Rodriguez, Acasiete, Revoredo, Vilchez; Yotun, Guevara, Balbin, Ballon, Advincula; Guerrero

Coach Sergio Markarian is set to adopt the 4-5-1 system which worked wonders in thwarting Uruguay on Monday evening. Juan Manuel Vargas has ruled himself fit for the encounter and stated that he is ready to "feature for 90 minutes" despite pulling up in their opening match. Jose Paolo Guerrero will again act as a lone striker, and scored against la Celeste, in what was only Peru's second international goal in 2011.

Mexico:
Michel; Aguilar, Araujo, Reynoso, Mier; Chavez, Aquino; Reyes Enríquez, Giovani; Lugo.

Troubled El Tri are desperate for a win in this match against Peru after tasting defeat at the hands of Chile on Monday evening. Rafael Lugo, who is expected to lead the line for the Mexicans, has dubbed this tie "a do or die encounter”. Coach Jose de la Torre has no pressing concerns with injuries, yet another defeat for the largely inexperienced side puts them in a precarious position in Group C.

Prediction

La Rojiblanca performed well to stifle Uruguay in their opener on Monday, and are likely to step it up against an inexperienced Mexico side in Mendoza. Despite Peru looking more likely to follow their defensive-minded formation, it may well be enough to overcome the unproven El Tri side, who are without their strongest side.

Editor's Prediction

Peru 1-0 Mexico

Read More

09.07. (Sat) 00:15 Uruguay - Chile

DID YOU KNOW?

Uruguay were held to a 1-1 draw in their opening game against Peru, with Luis Suarez's 45th minute strike cancelling out Paolo Guerrero's effort.

La Celeste lost their previous encounter against Claudio Borghi's men, with Uruguay going down 2-0 and also had Walter Gargano sent off.

Diego Forlan is just two goals shy of matching Uruguay's goalscoring record, currently held by Hector Scarone with 31.

Uruguay prevailed the last time both sides met in the Copa America, winning 5-3 on penalties in the 1999 semi-final en route to losing 3-0 to Brazil in the final.

The two sides have an identical record against each other, with both Uruguay and Chile winning twice each, and drawing three of their seven games.

Chile opened their tournament with a come-from-behind 2-1 victory against Mexico on Monday.

Although La Roja have failed to progress beyond the first round on four of the last eight encounters, they will do so if they secure three points against Uruguay.

Claudio Borghi's side are unbeaten in nine games, only losing once since bowing out of the World Cup in the second round.

PROBABLE LINE-UPS

Uruguay:
Muslera; Pereira, Lugano, Coates, Caceres; Perez, Arevalo, Alvaro Pereira; Cavani, Forlan, Suarez

Coach Oscar Tabarez is set to make two changes from the side that opened their tournament with a 1-1 draw against Peru. Sebastien Coates, who only made his international debut last month, will step in for Mauricio Victorino in defence. Nicolas Lodeiro will also make way for Alvaro Pereira in Mendoza. Diego Godin is still struggling with a fever, and remains doubtful.

Chile:
Bravo; Jara, Ponce, Contreras; Beausejour, Medel, Isla, Vidal, Fernandez; Sanchez, Suazo.

Claudio Borghi is sweating on the fitness of Matias Fernandez after the Sporting man went off injured in the 2-1 win over Mexico on Monday. Otherwise, there are no pressing concerns for La Roja to mull over. Chile will move into the last eight if they defeat last year's World Cup semi-finalists.

Prediction

Both sides posess a considerable attacking arsenal, yet with Uruguay's stuttering display, it'll be hard for them to convincingly overcome a fabulously talented Chilean side. Nevertheless, the attacking trident of La Celeste are among the finest in world football, and should they perform to their undoubted potential, a narrow win could well be on the cards for Oscar Tabarez's men.

Uruguay 2-1 Chile

Read More

08.07. (Fri) 00:15 Bolivia - Costa Rica

Neočekivano je dobra kvota za pobedu Bolivije. Sada je pala ali je bilo 2.25 kada su se kvote pojavile. Ja sam to iskoristio. U najavi pred takmičenje sam rekao da Kosta Rika neće osvojiti nijedan bod u ovoj grupi a ne vidim nijedan razlog da se ne držim tog mog mišljenja posle njihvog prvog meča u grupi protiv Kolumbije. Dobro, oni su imali igrača manje i izgubili su sa samo 0-1 no to je više imalo veze sa opreznom igrom Kolumbije. Trener Kolumbije nam je u drugom poluvremenu dao do znanja da će im rezultat 1-0 biti dovoljan.
Brenes, napadač Kosta Rike, kao i još jedan stariji igrač, će biti suspendovani za ovu utakmicu.
M. Moreno, napadač Šahtjora, je morao da postigne drugi gol za Boliviju protiv Argentine. On je u drugom poluvremenu samo trebao da pređe golmana pri rezultatu 1-0 za Boliviju. Po pitanju odbrane je Bolivija ostavila impresivan utisak tako da ne vidim kako će Kosta Rika postići gol protiv njih.
Trener Kosta Rike je izjavio da će da igra više napadački protiv Bolivije nego protiv Kolumbije. U svakom slučaju bi trebalo da bude tako jer je Brenes dobio crveni karton već u provm poluvremenu.
Moje je mišljenje da će ofanzivnija taktika Kosta Rike sasvim odgovarati Boliviji.

Opklada

Bolivia 1-0 Costa Rica

Read More

07.07. (Thu) 02:45 Argentina - Colombia

Kada će ovo takmičenje stvarno početi? Već mi je dosadilo da gledam jako loše fudbalske utakmice.
Donekle je bila zanimljiva utakmica Argentina - Bolivija ali je meč Kolumbija - Kosta Rika bio neverovatno dosadan.
Sa igračem manje ova očajna reprezentacija Kosta Rike uopšte nije mogla da zapreti a Kolumbija je bila zadovoljna da sačuva svoju prednost. Nadam se da Kolumbija može bolje da igra inače će biti u velikim problemima na ovom meču.
Ni Argentina nije oduševila ali je bar bilo nekog uzbuđenja na njihovom meču sa Bolivijom jer se umalo nije desilo nešto nezamislivo. Aguero je uspeo da postigne izjednačujući gol a Argentina je izbegla potpuni fijasko.
Očekuje se da će trener Argentine napraviti neke izmene na ovom meču jer su Laveci i Tevez pokazali vrlo malo protiv Bolivije no biće vrlo malo izmena u postavi odnosno samo jedna prema rečima trenera Batiste. Zabaleta će zameniti M. Rohoa u odbrani. To ja nazivam značajnom izmenom. Da, sarkastičan sam.
Skoro mi je nemoguće da ocenim trenutnu formu Kolumbije. Oni su igrali pod ručnom kočnicom protiv Kosta Rike no bez obzira su oni razočarali. Po pitanju odbrane su oni delovali jako čvrsto tako da će Argentina morati dosta da se popravi ako misli da pronađe neku rupu u odbrani Kolumbije.
Ja bih se opredelio za favorite ako bih baš morao da napravim izbor. Kvote? Po onome što smo do sada videli odbrane vode glavnu reč na ovom takmičenju a kvote na favorite su veoma potcenjene. Ponuđeno je 1.60 za pobedu Brazila nad Paragvajem a samo 1.40 za pobedu Argentine na ovom meču. Dobro, oni naravno imaju i prednost domaćeg terena.

Opklada

Argentina 2-1 Colombia

Read More

07.07. (Thu) 04:00 Vancouver Whitecaps - Columbus Crew

DID YOU KNOW?

The only time in history these two teams have met was earlier in the season when an Emilio Renteria brace eased Columbus to a 2-1 win at Crew Stadium.
Vancouver have lost three straight in all competitions, including two by one-goal margins to Canadian rival Toronto FC last week. Prior to this current run of bad form, the Whitecaps also went on a 14-match winless streak earlier in the season.

Both Emmanuel Ekpo (yellow-card accumulation) and Andy Iro (ejected against FC Dallas for two yellows) are suspended for this match.

The Dallas game did boster the Crew's roster, however, with Robbie Rogers (Gold Cup) and Danny O'Rourke (knee surgery) returning to the lineup.

Davide Chiumiento is second in MLS with seven assists but likely won't feature from the start against Columbus. Also missing out is Jay DeMerit, with Alain Rochat likely to move into the middle of defence to cover. Greg Janicki is an option, but coach Tom Soehn was the man who cut Janicki in 2009 when the two were at D.C. United. Janicki eventually worked his way back into the league by signing with the then-USL Whitecaps.

Andres Mendoza has begun earning his Designated Player wages this year with six goals in the past seven games. He is now one goal off the four-way league lead of eight for the season.

PROBABLE LINEUPS

Vancouver Whitecaps (4-3-3)
Cannon, Leathers, Boxall, Rochat, Wagner; Salinas, Koffie, Dunfield, Brovsky; Camilo, Hassli.


INJURY REPORT


OUT: DF Jay DeMerit (R adductor strain); FW Atiba Harris (R knee surgery)


DOUBTFUL: MF John Thorrington (R calf strain)


QUESTIONABLE: MF Davide Chiumiento (R hamstring strain); FW Eric Hassli (R foot contusion)


Columbus Crew (4-4-1-1)
Hesmer; Miranda, Marshall, O'Rourke, Gardner; Gaven, Anor, Rusmir, Rogers; Heinemann, Mendoza.


INJURY REPORT


OUT: DF Josh Williams (R hip labral tear); MF Dilly Duka (R ankle sprain); DF Rich Balchan (L adductor strain); MF Leandre Griffit (abdominal strain)


DOUBTFUL: DF Shaun Francis (L hamstring strain); FW Emilio Renteria (L quad strain)

Prediction
Vancouver Whitecaps 1-1 Columbus Crew 

Read More

05-07-2011 Predlozi za Tiket

Uruguay - Peru

Očekujem da će Urugvaj da pobedi ovu veoma oslabljenu reprezentaciju Perua.
Peru obično igra u formaciji 4-3-3 sa svoje dve mega zvezde Pizarom i Farfanom kao ključnim igračima. Obojica će propustiti ovo takmičenje. Zambrano takođe neće igrati kao ni fudbaler Korintijansa L. Ramirez.
Njihov najbolji igrač sredine terena, igrač Fiorentine Vargas, će možda propustiti sutrašnji meč. On će imati još jednu proveru pred utakmicu.
Pretpostavljam da će Gerero igrati u napadu a verovatno i Kariljo no da li će se Peru držati formacije 4-3-3 to ne mogu da kažem.
Igrač sredine terena Porta K. Rodrigez je ponovo pozvan u reprezentaciju Urugvaja gde će se između ostalih pridružiti saigraču iz kluba A. Pereiri.
Urugvaj će biti u skoro istom sastavu koji je stigao do polufinala Svetskog prvenstva. Forlan tvrdi da je ponovo u formi. Kavani i L. Suarez su imali jako dobre sezone u svojim klubovima tako da Urugvaj deluje kao ozbiljna pretnja na ovogodišnjem Kopa Amerika.
Opredeliću se za Urugvaj.

Chile - Mexico

Kladionica Stanley Bet još uvek nudi 1.75 za pobedu Čilea no da li je to prava kvota? Ja sumnjam u to. Ako je takav slučaj onda se apsolutno treba kladiti na tu kvotu.
Čile ima novog trenera za ovo takmičenje no ne verujem da će se njihova igra mnogo razlikovati od one koju su prikazali u Južnoj Africi prošle godine. Njihova atraktivna igra je bila dosta hvaljena i oni su uspeli da se plasiraju u drugu fazu takmičenja. Brazil je bio isuviše jak za Čile u prvoj utakmici u sledećoj fazi.
Po pitanju sastava oni deluju dosta dobro mada M. Gonzalez, Orelana i Maldonaldo nisu u sastavu ovoga puta. Ključni igrač je naravno A. Sančez a nadam se da će i njegov kolega iz napada, U. Suazo, biti 100% spreman.
Meksiko će igrati sa mladim sastavom, igračima do 22 godine, i bez osam suspendovanih igrača. Dobro, pet starijih igrača je takođe u sastavu ali tu nema baš zvučnih imena.
Mladi napadač Totenhema Dos Santos je njihova najveća zvezda ovoga puta. Posle odlgledanog fantastičnog gola koji je on postigao u finalu Gold kupa protiv SAD-a moram da kažem da on ima sjajnu budućnost pred sobom. Nema mnogo igrača koji će postići takav gol u karijeri.
No ipak Dos Santos ne može sam da pobedi Čile.
Vrlo verovatna pobeda Čilea.

Read More

05.07. (Tue) 04:30 LA Galaxy - Seattle Sounders

DID YOU KNOW?

Seattle ride a six-game unbeaten streak in the league into this match, and won in the U.S. Open Cup midweek.
The Galaxy will debut a new third jersey for Monday's game.

Los Angeles are unbeaten in 10 league matches, winning five and drawing five. Additionally, the Galaxy haven't lost at home this year.

Brian Perk should collect his first career MLS start. Donovan Ricketts picked up an injury and Josh Saunders was sent off in a 0-0 draw with the San Jose Earthquakes last week. Without both goalkeepers, Mike Magee played in goal for over a half to preserve the clean sheet.

Four of the Sounders' next five matches are on the road. However, Seattle are 3-2-4 away this year, including going unbeaten in the last four.

Landon Donovan will return to the Galaxy line-up after missing a month away with the U.S. national team at the Gold Cup. He is tied for the league lead in goals with eight.

David Beckham will miss the match with a stress fracture in the spine.

PROBABLE LINEUPS

LA Galaxy (4-4-2): 
Perk; Dunivant, Gonzalez, Berhalter, DeLaGarza; Donovan, Birchall, Juninho, Magee; Angel, Lopez.


INJURY REPORT


OUT: DF Sean Alvarado (R knee surgery); DF Leonardo (R knee surgery); GK Donovan Ricketts (L ulna fracture)


QUESTIONABLE: MF David Beckham (back spasms); DF Frankie Hejduk (R ankle inflammation)


Seattle Sounders FC (4-5-1): 
Keller; Riley, Park, Hurtado, Gonzalez; Rosales, Alonso, Fernandez, Friberg; Levesque, Fucito


INJURY REPORT


OUT: FW O’Brian White (L leg surgery); MF Steve Zakuani (R leg fracture)


PROBABLE: FW Fredy Montero (quad strain); MF Brad Evans (hamstring strain)

Prediction
Los Angeles Galaxy 1-1 Seattle Sounders F.C.   

Read More

05.07. (Tue) 02:30 Real Salt Lake - New England R.

DID YOU KNOW?

New England didn't win a match in the month of June, losing three and drawing two.
The club's last win came on May 14, a 1-0 decision over the Vancouver Whitecaps

Shalrie Joseph is New England's leading scorer with four goals to his name this season.

Real Salt Lake had a much more productive June, winning three times, losing just once, and drawing three along the way.

RSL head coach Jason Kries will have his number 9 jersey retired after the match.

Salt Lake has lost only once in six Independence Day home matches.

PROBABLE LINEUPS

Real Salt Lake (4-4-2):
Rimando; Russell, Olave, Borchers, Beltran; Grabavoy, Beckerman, Warner, Johnson; Saborio, Gil


INJURY REPORT

OUT: MF Javier Morales (L ankle fracture dislocation)


DOUBTFUL: FW Arturo Alvarez (R hamstring strain); FW Paulo Jr. (L hamstring strain)


QUESTIONABLE: FW Fabian Espíndola (L hamstring strain); DF Chris Wingert (R hamstring strain)


PROBABLE: FW Álvaro Saborío (R knee swelling)


New England Revolution (4-5-1): 
Reis; Alston, Cochrane, Barnes, Soares; Nyassi, Joseph, Phelan, Feilhaber, Guy; Lekic.


INJURY REPORT


OUT: FW Kheli Dube (whiplash)


QUESTIONABLE: MF Ousmane Dabo (R quadriceps strain); DF Didier Domi (R Achilles tendinitis)


PROBABLE: MF Stephen McCarthy (L shoulder subluxation)

Prediction
Real Salt LakeNew 2-0 England Revolution   

Read More