1) Best of the best
In the following, I'll just like to mention a best player for each of the 32 teams in Germany in the World Cup as a conclusion of a tournament where no one set it alight but several still managed to impress the world.
Angola: Pereira Jose Ricardo (Gk)
Argentina: Maxi Rodriguez (M)
Australia: Lucas Neili (D)
Brazil: Ze Roberto (M)
Costa Rica: Paulo Wanchope (F)
Croatia: Dario Prso (F)
Czech Republic: Tomas Rosicky (M)
Ecuador: Luis Valencia (M)
England: Steven Gerrard (M)
France: Zinedine Zidane (M)
Germany: Miroslav Klose (F)
Ghana: Stephen Appiah (M)
Holland: Edwin Van Der Sar (Gk)
Iran: Yahya Golmohammadi (D)
Italy: Fabio Cannavaro (D)
Ivory Coast: Aruna Dindane (F)
Japan: Shunsuke Nakamura (M)
Mexico: Omar Bravo (M)
Paraguay: Julio Dos Santos (M)
Poland: Bartosz Bosacki (D)
Portugal: Luis Figo (M)
Saudi Arabia: Sami Al Jaber (F)
Serbia and Montenegro: Nikola Zigic (F)
South Korea: Park Ji Sung (M)
Spain: Fernando Torres (F)
Sweden: Kim Kallstrom (M)
Switzerland: Philippe Senderos (D)
Togo: Mohamed Kader (F)
Trinidad and Tobago: Dwight Yorke (M)
Tunisia: Zied Jaziri (F)
Ukraine: Maxim Kalinichenko (M)
USA: Brian McBride (F)
Sunday, July 30, 2006
World Cup 2006 Top 10 Moments
2) Zidane...Not an Immortal but a Real Man
For a lot of people who followed the World Cup in Germany, Zidane's outrageous headbutt on Materazzi would be the image which made the deepest impression. The setting was perfect for Zidane's swansong. A World Cup final, a penalty converted as early as the 6th minute...it could have been a perfect farewell for a real legend for the past decade with Zidane lifting the World Cup trophy. Instead, a headbutt and the inevitable red card would forever remain the exclaimation mark on his career. I was as puzzled as everyone else as the event unfolded right in front of me on my TV set but subsequent reports allowed everyone to have a clearer picture of what went on. Apparently, Materazzi insulted Zidane, his mother, his sister and his wife with terms which even the culprit Materazzi had no guts to repeat in public. Zidane was condemnned in certain quarters for his violent conduct, stressing that in the face of any sort of provocation, there should be no violent retailation on the pitch. While the rule said so and I have no problem with that, I'm taking another stance. Today, media likes to exaggerate events and personalities. Every World Cup seemes to be the "best ever" while every outstanding player seems to be "immortalised". We ask for the sky not only in terms of Zidane's soccer skills but also his moral standards but is it fair? Who won't react when his/her family is being verbally abused? Maybe a monk perhaps but Zidane is no monk (despite his bald head). In all, Zidane's action is inexcusable in the rules of the game or even the laws which govern our society, but it is certainly understandable. Zidane is no immortal, he is no saint and nor should he be placed such lofty expectations that few of us can possibly reach. Zidane is only human, a human with magic with his feet on a football but nevertheless a human and a real man who stood up for his family's name, just like many of us who would probably do, or at least thought of doing the same.
For a lot of people who followed the World Cup in Germany, Zidane's outrageous headbutt on Materazzi would be the image which made the deepest impression. The setting was perfect for Zidane's swansong. A World Cup final, a penalty converted as early as the 6th minute...it could have been a perfect farewell for a real legend for the past decade with Zidane lifting the World Cup trophy. Instead, a headbutt and the inevitable red card would forever remain the exclaimation mark on his career. I was as puzzled as everyone else as the event unfolded right in front of me on my TV set but subsequent reports allowed everyone to have a clearer picture of what went on. Apparently, Materazzi insulted Zidane, his mother, his sister and his wife with terms which even the culprit Materazzi had no guts to repeat in public. Zidane was condemnned in certain quarters for his violent conduct, stressing that in the face of any sort of provocation, there should be no violent retailation on the pitch. While the rule said so and I have no problem with that, I'm taking another stance. Today, media likes to exaggerate events and personalities. Every World Cup seemes to be the "best ever" while every outstanding player seems to be "immortalised". We ask for the sky not only in terms of Zidane's soccer skills but also his moral standards but is it fair? Who won't react when his/her family is being verbally abused? Maybe a monk perhaps but Zidane is no monk (despite his bald head). In all, Zidane's action is inexcusable in the rules of the game or even the laws which govern our society, but it is certainly understandable. Zidane is no immortal, he is no saint and nor should he be placed such lofty expectations that few of us can possibly reach. Zidane is only human, a human with magic with his feet on a football but nevertheless a human and a real man who stood up for his family's name, just like many of us who would probably do, or at least thought of doing the same.
Saturday, July 29, 2006
World Cup 2006 Top 10 Moments
3) The Demise of Brazil
Brazil was touted as overwhelming favourites to win the World Cup before the start of the tournament. Who wouldn't? There's the World Player of the year Ronaldinho, there's the "extraterrestrial" Ronaldo, there's the talented Kaka, there's the strong striker Adriano, there's the "new Pele" Robinho, there's the evergreen Cafu, there's the supposedly best left back in the world Roberto Carlos. Brazil, with their overflowing talent, was supposed to just turn out and claim the trophy. They were supposed to be invincible, unbeatable. However, we all knew by now that things did not turn out that way. Ronaldinho, possibly due to his exertions for Barcelona in the La Liga and the Champion's League, was terribly off-form throughout the tournament and ended his campaign without scoring a single goal. Ronaldo proved that being fat could not make u a good striker as despite his 3 goals in the tournament, he struggled against the defences of Australia and Croatia, not to mention France. Kaka showed that he still need to gain more experience and more importantly, how to impose himself in games. Adriano followed the wrong example in Ronaldo by trying hard to expend his waistline. The price? His pace dimished and his off the ball movement non-existent. Robinho failed to live up to his promise as the "new Pele" just like so many others before. Cafu showed that age was catching up with him as his non-stop overlapping runs up and down the flanks were not on showing in Germany. Roberto carlos ended his international career with an embrassing scene of him panting at the edge of the penalty box, allowing Thierry Henry the freedom to tap home the goal which knocked out the Brazilians. Brazil's downfall could be contributed to a few factors. First, too many cooks spoil the soup. Blessed with so much talent, the coach failed to harness and maximise these talents in his hand. There was no focus in their attacks and no leader on the pitch such as germany's Ballack or France's Zidane. Also, the politics ensured that players were picked on reputations rather than form as in the case of Ronaldo and Carlos. The overconfidence of the brazilians, fed even more by the media who were eager to just hand them the trophy, also proved to be their downfall. They thought they would be able to switch their gears according to their opponents but found out, at the cost of their elimination, that they could not do that. A soccer team which was essentially a commercial asset of the Brazilian government and multinational companies and devoid of spirits and humility, maybe it wasn't such a surprise that brazil failed to live up to its pre-tournament hype after all.
Brazil was touted as overwhelming favourites to win the World Cup before the start of the tournament. Who wouldn't? There's the World Player of the year Ronaldinho, there's the "extraterrestrial" Ronaldo, there's the talented Kaka, there's the strong striker Adriano, there's the "new Pele" Robinho, there's the evergreen Cafu, there's the supposedly best left back in the world Roberto Carlos. Brazil, with their overflowing talent, was supposed to just turn out and claim the trophy. They were supposed to be invincible, unbeatable. However, we all knew by now that things did not turn out that way. Ronaldinho, possibly due to his exertions for Barcelona in the La Liga and the Champion's League, was terribly off-form throughout the tournament and ended his campaign without scoring a single goal. Ronaldo proved that being fat could not make u a good striker as despite his 3 goals in the tournament, he struggled against the defences of Australia and Croatia, not to mention France. Kaka showed that he still need to gain more experience and more importantly, how to impose himself in games. Adriano followed the wrong example in Ronaldo by trying hard to expend his waistline. The price? His pace dimished and his off the ball movement non-existent. Robinho failed to live up to his promise as the "new Pele" just like so many others before. Cafu showed that age was catching up with him as his non-stop overlapping runs up and down the flanks were not on showing in Germany. Roberto carlos ended his international career with an embrassing scene of him panting at the edge of the penalty box, allowing Thierry Henry the freedom to tap home the goal which knocked out the Brazilians. Brazil's downfall could be contributed to a few factors. First, too many cooks spoil the soup. Blessed with so much talent, the coach failed to harness and maximise these talents in his hand. There was no focus in their attacks and no leader on the pitch such as germany's Ballack or France's Zidane. Also, the politics ensured that players were picked on reputations rather than form as in the case of Ronaldo and Carlos. The overconfidence of the brazilians, fed even more by the media who were eager to just hand them the trophy, also proved to be their downfall. They thought they would be able to switch their gears according to their opponents but found out, at the cost of their elimination, that they could not do that. A soccer team which was essentially a commercial asset of the Brazilian government and multinational companies and devoid of spirits and humility, maybe it wasn't such a surprise that brazil failed to live up to its pre-tournament hype after all.
Thursday, July 27, 2006
World Cup 2006 Top 10 Moments
4) The Overrated and the Underrated
In every major tournament, there will be stars who fail to shine and unknowns who lit up the tournament. The following are 10 players who i thought are overrated/underrated.
1) Ronaldinho of Brazil (Overrated)
He has set the footballing on fire with his superlative skills for Barcelona in the La Liga and Champion's League. While he may be arguably the best player on the planet right now, Ronaldinho failed to repeat such form on the biggest stage of all. Failing to shine in any single match throughout the tournament, Ronaldinho ended his campaign being taught a lesson in playmaking by legend Zinedine Zidane.
2) Miroslav Klose of Germany (Underrated)
He scored 5 goals in 2002, he scored another 5 in 2006. He won the Golden Boot in both tournaments. Yet Klose does not seem to be recognised as a world class player. Maybe it's because he's a late bloomer to the game. Maybe it's because he's playing for the unfashionable Werder Bremen. Maybe it's because he's unspectacular in his play. Whichever the case, Klose proved himself to be a real goal poacher, decent with both feet and strong aerial ability. It's sad that Man Utd, destined to lose Van Nistelrooy, decided to look at Fernando Torres, a player who has never played in the Champion's League and unproven despite scoring 3 goals in World Cup 2006, rather than Klose.
3) Ronaldo of Brazil (Overrated)
He was non-existent against Croatia, provided an assist and nothing else against Australia, bullied minnows Japan with 2 goals, scored 1 against Ghana thanks to the unbelievably naive defending from the Ghanians and finally, in the match against France, Ronaldo's performance came full circle as he disappeared again just like against Croatia. 3 goals and becoming the all-time World Cup goalscorer do not cover up the fact that Ronaldo is a fading force. Frankly speaking, Ronaldo is no more No. 1, he's just a fat has-been.
4) Lucas Neili of Australia (Underrated)
A defender comfortable in both right full back and center back, Neili came into the World Cup brimming with confidence after he helped Blackburn into 6th place in the premier league which earned them a Uefa Cup spot. During the World Cup, Neili proved to be just as hard and uncompromising as he is in the league, with the pace to compete against the speedy attackers. Neili was a rock in the Australian defence and instrumental in his team progressing into the last 16. A pity that Neili's campaign ended with a harshly judged penalty conceded by him which ended Australia's resistance against eventual winners Italy.
5) Adriano of Brazil (Overrated)
Recall the Confederation's Cup 2005 in Germany, when Adriano was leading the line for Brazil. A powerful left foot shot, an imposing physical presence which did not seem to compromise his pace and skill. Adriano seemed unbeatable then and was rightfully involved in the brazilian first team ever since. Now back to the World Cup 2006, his physical presence became cumbersome, his powerful left foot nowhere to be seen, his skills and pace disappeared. A drastic drop from his prime in 2005, it is sad that the only memory I had about Adriano in Germany was not his 2 goals but his ever-expanding waistline.
6) Philip Lahm of Germany (Underrated)
Move over Roberto Carlos, Lahm is in town. During this World Cup, we saw how the title of "the best attacking left back in the world" changed hands. Pacy and packing a sting of a shot, what makes Lahm even better is that he is actually right footed but that did not hinder him in his role of left-back as he cleverly mixed up his options between cutting inside or heading for the byline, often leaving opposing full backs bewildered. Comfortable with both feet, young Lahm has a bright future ahead of him.
7) Kaka of Brazil (Overrated)
Kaka, together with Shevchenko and Pirlo, form the focus of AC Milan's attacks. Other than Shevchenko, Kaka is the key goalscorer for the side,being able to tap in goals from 5 yards or score stunning goals from 30 yards. His direct approach aided by his pace and skills made him one of the stars in Italy despite just 2 seasons in Serie A. Kaka was expected to shine in Germany but after a promising start when he scored a stunning match-winner against Croatia, Kaka faded away as the matches came thick and fast. Failing to stamp his authority, kaka was often mere passengers in games which is almost unforgivable considering the talent that he obviously have in abundance.
8) Torsten Frings of Germany (Underrated)
Torsten Frings of Werder Bremen was almost unheard of to most neutral fans before the tournament but most people would remember his name after World Cup 2006. A tenacious midfield enforcer, Frings provided Germany with a platform to attack, often dropping back to cover the inexperienced German defence and allowing Ballack to impose himself in the final third of the field. Frings also posed a threat, as he proved with a stunning long range effort against Costa Rica, showing that he is more than a "Makelele" for Germany. If the statement that "absence makes the heart grow fonder" is to be believed, Frings' absence in the semi-final against Italy, which the Germans lost, certainly made many in football realise his importance to the German side.
9) Juan Riquelme of Argentina (Overrated)
On his day, Riquelme has the ability to dictate the pace of the game with his range of passing while his set piece delivery is often deadly. However, here lies the problem: on his day he can be the best, but he can be a passenger for the rest of the other days. We saw the best of Riquelme in the group stages, where he managed to impose himself in matches and threading through balls for his forwards. However, when the pressure really started in the knockout stage, Riquelme's influence dwindled, which might be possibly a reason why Argentina failed to repeat their impressive form in the latter stages of the tournament. When Riquelme failed to convert the spotkick against Arsenal in the Champion's League semi-final, I told my friends that Argentina would not win the World Cup if Riquelme was to be their main man as he was not a man for the big occasions like for example Steven Gerrard. How right I am.
10) Fabio Cannavaro of Italy (Underrated)
Cannavaro, along with Alessandro Nesta, are often touted as the best central defence pairing in the world today. However, popular views suggested that Nesta was better than Cannavaro and as a result, Cannavaro was often not in the limelight. Not at this World Cup though. Nesta's injury proved to be a blessing for Cannavaro as he proved to the world how he could singe-handedly marshall the water-tight Italian defence. What was more incredible was that Cannavaro had to play with 4 different defenders in central defence whcih further highlighted his leadership. Cannavaro's leadership coupled with his personal ability made him fundemental to Italy's World Cup win.
In every major tournament, there will be stars who fail to shine and unknowns who lit up the tournament. The following are 10 players who i thought are overrated/underrated.
1) Ronaldinho of Brazil (Overrated)
He has set the footballing on fire with his superlative skills for Barcelona in the La Liga and Champion's League. While he may be arguably the best player on the planet right now, Ronaldinho failed to repeat such form on the biggest stage of all. Failing to shine in any single match throughout the tournament, Ronaldinho ended his campaign being taught a lesson in playmaking by legend Zinedine Zidane.
2) Miroslav Klose of Germany (Underrated)
He scored 5 goals in 2002, he scored another 5 in 2006. He won the Golden Boot in both tournaments. Yet Klose does not seem to be recognised as a world class player. Maybe it's because he's a late bloomer to the game. Maybe it's because he's playing for the unfashionable Werder Bremen. Maybe it's because he's unspectacular in his play. Whichever the case, Klose proved himself to be a real goal poacher, decent with both feet and strong aerial ability. It's sad that Man Utd, destined to lose Van Nistelrooy, decided to look at Fernando Torres, a player who has never played in the Champion's League and unproven despite scoring 3 goals in World Cup 2006, rather than Klose.
3) Ronaldo of Brazil (Overrated)
He was non-existent against Croatia, provided an assist and nothing else against Australia, bullied minnows Japan with 2 goals, scored 1 against Ghana thanks to the unbelievably naive defending from the Ghanians and finally, in the match against France, Ronaldo's performance came full circle as he disappeared again just like against Croatia. 3 goals and becoming the all-time World Cup goalscorer do not cover up the fact that Ronaldo is a fading force. Frankly speaking, Ronaldo is no more No. 1, he's just a fat has-been.
4) Lucas Neili of Australia (Underrated)
A defender comfortable in both right full back and center back, Neili came into the World Cup brimming with confidence after he helped Blackburn into 6th place in the premier league which earned them a Uefa Cup spot. During the World Cup, Neili proved to be just as hard and uncompromising as he is in the league, with the pace to compete against the speedy attackers. Neili was a rock in the Australian defence and instrumental in his team progressing into the last 16. A pity that Neili's campaign ended with a harshly judged penalty conceded by him which ended Australia's resistance against eventual winners Italy.
5) Adriano of Brazil (Overrated)
Recall the Confederation's Cup 2005 in Germany, when Adriano was leading the line for Brazil. A powerful left foot shot, an imposing physical presence which did not seem to compromise his pace and skill. Adriano seemed unbeatable then and was rightfully involved in the brazilian first team ever since. Now back to the World Cup 2006, his physical presence became cumbersome, his powerful left foot nowhere to be seen, his skills and pace disappeared. A drastic drop from his prime in 2005, it is sad that the only memory I had about Adriano in Germany was not his 2 goals but his ever-expanding waistline.
6) Philip Lahm of Germany (Underrated)
Move over Roberto Carlos, Lahm is in town. During this World Cup, we saw how the title of "the best attacking left back in the world" changed hands. Pacy and packing a sting of a shot, what makes Lahm even better is that he is actually right footed but that did not hinder him in his role of left-back as he cleverly mixed up his options between cutting inside or heading for the byline, often leaving opposing full backs bewildered. Comfortable with both feet, young Lahm has a bright future ahead of him.
7) Kaka of Brazil (Overrated)
Kaka, together with Shevchenko and Pirlo, form the focus of AC Milan's attacks. Other than Shevchenko, Kaka is the key goalscorer for the side,being able to tap in goals from 5 yards or score stunning goals from 30 yards. His direct approach aided by his pace and skills made him one of the stars in Italy despite just 2 seasons in Serie A. Kaka was expected to shine in Germany but after a promising start when he scored a stunning match-winner against Croatia, Kaka faded away as the matches came thick and fast. Failing to stamp his authority, kaka was often mere passengers in games which is almost unforgivable considering the talent that he obviously have in abundance.
8) Torsten Frings of Germany (Underrated)
Torsten Frings of Werder Bremen was almost unheard of to most neutral fans before the tournament but most people would remember his name after World Cup 2006. A tenacious midfield enforcer, Frings provided Germany with a platform to attack, often dropping back to cover the inexperienced German defence and allowing Ballack to impose himself in the final third of the field. Frings also posed a threat, as he proved with a stunning long range effort against Costa Rica, showing that he is more than a "Makelele" for Germany. If the statement that "absence makes the heart grow fonder" is to be believed, Frings' absence in the semi-final against Italy, which the Germans lost, certainly made many in football realise his importance to the German side.
9) Juan Riquelme of Argentina (Overrated)
On his day, Riquelme has the ability to dictate the pace of the game with his range of passing while his set piece delivery is often deadly. However, here lies the problem: on his day he can be the best, but he can be a passenger for the rest of the other days. We saw the best of Riquelme in the group stages, where he managed to impose himself in matches and threading through balls for his forwards. However, when the pressure really started in the knockout stage, Riquelme's influence dwindled, which might be possibly a reason why Argentina failed to repeat their impressive form in the latter stages of the tournament. When Riquelme failed to convert the spotkick against Arsenal in the Champion's League semi-final, I told my friends that Argentina would not win the World Cup if Riquelme was to be their main man as he was not a man for the big occasions like for example Steven Gerrard. How right I am.
10) Fabio Cannavaro of Italy (Underrated)
Cannavaro, along with Alessandro Nesta, are often touted as the best central defence pairing in the world today. However, popular views suggested that Nesta was better than Cannavaro and as a result, Cannavaro was often not in the limelight. Not at this World Cup though. Nesta's injury proved to be a blessing for Cannavaro as he proved to the world how he could singe-handedly marshall the water-tight Italian defence. What was more incredible was that Cannavaro had to play with 4 different defenders in central defence whcih further highlighted his leadership. Cannavaro's leadership coupled with his personal ability made him fundemental to Italy's World Cup win.
Wednesday, July 26, 2006
World Cup 2006 Top 10 Moments
5) Singapore's Pride
People often joked about Singapore's prospects in playing on the biggest soccer stage of all. 2010? More like 2100 lah. That's what i heard before. However, a Singaporean referee, Shamsul Maidin, did the "little red dot" proud in World Cup 2006. In a tournament filled with refereeing errors, Shamsul Maidin not only managed to escape from any criticisms abouthis performances, he also earned rave reviews from many present in Germany for his professionalism and fitness. Thanks to the New Paper, I read a story about when asked by a foreigner in Germany where did he come from, the reporter replied Singapore and the foreigner remarked," oh, u have a good referee." (or something like that). So, while everyone on the island was thinking back about Zidane's headbutt, Germany's vibrant attacks, Italy's victory.....spare a thought about the man who did us Singaporeans proud in Germany. Thank u, Shamsul Maidin : )
People often joked about Singapore's prospects in playing on the biggest soccer stage of all. 2010? More like 2100 lah. That's what i heard before. However, a Singaporean referee, Shamsul Maidin, did the "little red dot" proud in World Cup 2006. In a tournament filled with refereeing errors, Shamsul Maidin not only managed to escape from any criticisms abouthis performances, he also earned rave reviews from many present in Germany for his professionalism and fitness. Thanks to the New Paper, I read a story about when asked by a foreigner in Germany where did he come from, the reporter replied Singapore and the foreigner remarked," oh, u have a good referee." (or something like that). So, while everyone on the island was thinking back about Zidane's headbutt, Germany's vibrant attacks, Italy's victory.....spare a thought about the man who did us Singaporeans proud in Germany. Thank u, Shamsul Maidin : )
World Cup 2006 Top 10 Moments
6) Revenge of the Oldies
Prior to the 2006 World Cup, promising youngsters such as Wayne Rooney, Cesc Fabregas, Lukas Podolski, Lionel Messi and Robinho were touted as world beaters and are set to take over the mantle of the likes of Zinedine Zidane, Patrick Vieira, Pavel Nedved, Luis Figo, oldies who were supposed to be way past their expiry dates. In the aftermath of the World Cup, we now know that it is dangerous to embrace these young and inevitably inexperienced stars on the biggest stages and dismiss the "oldies" who had been there and done that. Let's take a look at the respective players. For youngsters, Wayne Rooney made an amazing recovery from his metetarsal injury only to be sent off in the quarter-final against crafty Portugal. Podolski might hace won the young player of the tournament and scored three goals but his composure in front of goal remains to be desired as seen from matches against Poland and Italy. Fabregas, tipped to upstage his ex teammate Vieira in Spain's match against France just like he did for Arsenal against Vieira in the Champion's league, ended by being taught a lesson about asserting authority in midfield. Cristiano Ronaldo, despite his contribution to Portugal's 4th placing, did himself no good to his reputation as a diver and a cheat. Lionel Messi, burdened by a long season and injury for Barcelona, scored against Serbia and Montenegro but faded as the tournament progressed. Robinho, tipped as the "new Pele", sparkled in matches against Australia and Japan but failed to deliver when it mattered most against France. Now how about the oldies? Zidane, despite his headbutt in the final, gave what was probably the best individual performance in the tournament against Brazil, not to mention his 2 goals which helped France to the final. Vieira, described by critics as a fading force, rolled back the years as he almost single-handedly dragged France past the group stage. Cannavaro of italy and Thram of France showed the world how good positioning and anticipation could make up for lack of pace against young and pacy forwards. Figo showered Ronaldo how to play as a winger effectively while Nedved served a masterpiece against Italy and despite losing, was by far the best performer on the field that day.
Youngsters, despite their obvious talents, often lack composure and temperament while their still growing bodies are more prone to injuries as well. Oldies, despite their lack of pace and legs, showed just how intelligent play can still win over pace and power in the modern game.
Prior to the 2006 World Cup, promising youngsters such as Wayne Rooney, Cesc Fabregas, Lukas Podolski, Lionel Messi and Robinho were touted as world beaters and are set to take over the mantle of the likes of Zinedine Zidane, Patrick Vieira, Pavel Nedved, Luis Figo, oldies who were supposed to be way past their expiry dates. In the aftermath of the World Cup, we now know that it is dangerous to embrace these young and inevitably inexperienced stars on the biggest stages and dismiss the "oldies" who had been there and done that. Let's take a look at the respective players. For youngsters, Wayne Rooney made an amazing recovery from his metetarsal injury only to be sent off in the quarter-final against crafty Portugal. Podolski might hace won the young player of the tournament and scored three goals but his composure in front of goal remains to be desired as seen from matches against Poland and Italy. Fabregas, tipped to upstage his ex teammate Vieira in Spain's match against France just like he did for Arsenal against Vieira in the Champion's league, ended by being taught a lesson about asserting authority in midfield. Cristiano Ronaldo, despite his contribution to Portugal's 4th placing, did himself no good to his reputation as a diver and a cheat. Lionel Messi, burdened by a long season and injury for Barcelona, scored against Serbia and Montenegro but faded as the tournament progressed. Robinho, tipped as the "new Pele", sparkled in matches against Australia and Japan but failed to deliver when it mattered most against France. Now how about the oldies? Zidane, despite his headbutt in the final, gave what was probably the best individual performance in the tournament against Brazil, not to mention his 2 goals which helped France to the final. Vieira, described by critics as a fading force, rolled back the years as he almost single-handedly dragged France past the group stage. Cannavaro of italy and Thram of France showed the world how good positioning and anticipation could make up for lack of pace against young and pacy forwards. Figo showered Ronaldo how to play as a winger effectively while Nedved served a masterpiece against Italy and despite losing, was by far the best performer on the field that day.
Youngsters, despite their obvious talents, often lack composure and temperament while their still growing bodies are more prone to injuries as well. Oldies, despite their lack of pace and legs, showed just how intelligent play can still win over pace and power in the modern game.
Monday, July 17, 2006
爱情就是感觉
几天前在东风卫视的《桃色蛋白质》看到孙燕姿的专访，而她在其中一段提到了她的爱情观，让我一再深思。燕姿说她向往轰轰烈烈，浪漫的爱情。比如说如果她爱 的人在她的演唱会进行到一半时上台向她求婚，她会毫不犹豫地放下手中的麦克风跟他走。在燕姿眼里，那样才叫做爱情。如果要经过反复的计划后才决定结婚，那 叫做计划，不叫爱情。燕姿的这番话让我想到我自己。我以前认为自己必须有了一定的事业基础和经济能力，确定自己能够照顾对方后才能进行追求。但是到后来， 我觉得自己其实是本末倒置，因为我应该是在她的陪伴下发奋图强才对。毕竟缘份来去不由人，我应该把握的，所以我才会告白。你总会时不时问我愿不愿意明天就 和你到ROM去注册。第一次我听到时吓了一跳，心想：太快了吧？我还在念书，我没有钱啊！但是现在你问我，我会很认真地答应你。因为爱情本该如此，不是计 划，而是一种冲动，一种感觉。ROM！等我们喔！我们很快就会来了！
Wednesday, July 12, 2006
World Cup 2006 Top 10 Moments
8) A World Cup of Long Shots
Philip Lahm's shot in the opening match against Costa Rica set the tone for World Cup 2006. Despite the supposedly lack of goals, especially in the latter stages of the tournament, there is no doubt that we're treated to a feast of stunning strikes thanks to the encouragement of the new soccer ball which, according to experts, swerves more in the air and thus giving goalkeepers less reaction time to save the shots. As a goalkeeper in my schooldays, I can testify that this split-second difference in reaction time can be the difference between a marvellous save and a stunning goal. If the purpose of this new ball is to encourage players to shoot more, it certainly served its purpose. Goals that still remained in my memory now includes Torsten Frings' shot in the same match against Costa Rica, Joe Cole's goal against Sweden, Maxi Rodriguez's goal against Mexico, Deco's goal against Iran, Kaka's shot against Croatia and Tomas Rosicy's first goal against USA. I don't know if others feel the same way but long shots from outside the box have always bring about an adredeline rush when the shots flew into the net, probably because of the element of surprise as well as the power and precision involved. Bastian Schweinstegier's double strikes against Portugal in the 3rd/ 4th placing match are a fitting end to a series of stunning long range efforts that are converted into marvellous goals which have fans including myself jumping off our seats.
Philip Lahm's shot in the opening match against Costa Rica set the tone for World Cup 2006. Despite the supposedly lack of goals, especially in the latter stages of the tournament, there is no doubt that we're treated to a feast of stunning strikes thanks to the encouragement of the new soccer ball which, according to experts, swerves more in the air and thus giving goalkeepers less reaction time to save the shots. As a goalkeeper in my schooldays, I can testify that this split-second difference in reaction time can be the difference between a marvellous save and a stunning goal. If the purpose of this new ball is to encourage players to shoot more, it certainly served its purpose. Goals that still remained in my memory now includes Torsten Frings' shot in the same match against Costa Rica, Joe Cole's goal against Sweden, Maxi Rodriguez's goal against Mexico, Deco's goal against Iran, Kaka's shot against Croatia and Tomas Rosicy's first goal against USA. I don't know if others feel the same way but long shots from outside the box have always bring about an adredeline rush when the shots flew into the net, probably because of the element of surprise as well as the power and precision involved. Bastian Schweinstegier's double strikes against Portugal in the 3rd/ 4th placing match are a fitting end to a series of stunning long range efforts that are converted into marvellous goals which have fans including myself jumping off our seats.
Tuesday, July 11, 2006
World Cup 2006 Top 10 Moments
9) Pele the Pundit...NOT!
Pele may be arguably the best soccer player ever but that does not mean that he knows his stuff when giving his match predictions. Over the years, despite Pele's infamous predictions which always seem to jinx the teams that he favours, I have always view this "phenomenon" with a pinch of salt and did not take it too seriously. However, after the World Cup 2006, Pele's uncanny ability to predict losers as accurately as his shots in his heydays has striked me as "eerie". I mean, none of us get our predictions correct everytime but i'm sure very few of us can actually predict the opposite results so accurately within a short span of matches. Unfortunate casulties of the "Pele jinx" has included Colombia in 1994, France and Argentina in 2002 and most recently, Brazil, England and Germany in 2006. Even individual players are not spared from the Jinx. Wayne Rooney, tipped by Pele to shine in World Cup 2006, was injured just before the end of the Premiership season, and after fighting his way back to a stunning recovery, Rooney ended his first ever World Cup campaign with a red card as England ws knocked out on penalties by Portugal. One of the things i learnt throughout this World Cup which should serve me well in football gambling during World Cup 2010 is definitely this: Bet AGAINST Pele! : p
Pele may be arguably the best soccer player ever but that does not mean that he knows his stuff when giving his match predictions. Over the years, despite Pele's infamous predictions which always seem to jinx the teams that he favours, I have always view this "phenomenon" with a pinch of salt and did not take it too seriously. However, after the World Cup 2006, Pele's uncanny ability to predict losers as accurately as his shots in his heydays has striked me as "eerie". I mean, none of us get our predictions correct everytime but i'm sure very few of us can actually predict the opposite results so accurately within a short span of matches. Unfortunate casulties of the "Pele jinx" has included Colombia in 1994, France and Argentina in 2002 and most recently, Brazil, England and Germany in 2006. Even individual players are not spared from the Jinx. Wayne Rooney, tipped by Pele to shine in World Cup 2006, was injured just before the end of the Premiership season, and after fighting his way back to a stunning recovery, Rooney ended his first ever World Cup campaign with a red card as England ws knocked out on penalties by Portugal. One of the things i learnt throughout this World Cup which should serve me well in football gambling during World Cup 2010 is definitely this: Bet AGAINST Pele! : p
World Cup 2006 Top 10 Moments
10) A "New" Germany
It is not inaccurate to suggest that Klinsmann has "reinvented" the German soccer team. From the old mechanical side high on efficiency but low on creativity and flair, the German soccer team that captured the hearts of Germans and neutrals alike is nothing like their predecessors. Playing a high tempo pressure game which requires an extremely high fitness level as well as positional discipline, This German team has the ability to attack from all sides and angles: through the centre with Ballack's pinpoint passing and lethal shooting (despite not scoring in the World Cup), assisted by Frings as the midfield enforcer who isn't shy to have a crack from long range, through the flanks with wingers Schneider on the right assisted by Friedrich, Schweinsteiger on the left helped by Lahm as well as the speedy Odonkor to call on from the bench. Also, when the attacking players are not in form, there are always the precise delivery of crosses from corners and freekicks courtesy of Ballack to count on when searching for goals. The variety of attacking options ensures that strikers Klose and Podolski will rarely be starved of service and goal-scoring opportunities. Despite losing at the semi-final against Italy, Germany ended the tournament as the highest scorer which is testament of their attacking prowess and desire for goals. As long as Klinsmann stays as manager and an inexperienced defence matures with age and matches, this new-look Germany has the potential to become one of the most exciting teams in the world for years to come.
It is not inaccurate to suggest that Klinsmann has "reinvented" the German soccer team. From the old mechanical side high on efficiency but low on creativity and flair, the German soccer team that captured the hearts of Germans and neutrals alike is nothing like their predecessors. Playing a high tempo pressure game which requires an extremely high fitness level as well as positional discipline, This German team has the ability to attack from all sides and angles: through the centre with Ballack's pinpoint passing and lethal shooting (despite not scoring in the World Cup), assisted by Frings as the midfield enforcer who isn't shy to have a crack from long range, through the flanks with wingers Schneider on the right assisted by Friedrich, Schweinsteiger on the left helped by Lahm as well as the speedy Odonkor to call on from the bench. Also, when the attacking players are not in form, there are always the precise delivery of crosses from corners and freekicks courtesy of Ballack to count on when searching for goals. The variety of attacking options ensures that strikers Klose and Podolski will rarely be starved of service and goal-scoring opportunities. Despite losing at the semi-final against Italy, Germany ended the tournament as the highest scorer which is testament of their attacking prowess and desire for goals. As long as Klinsmann stays as manager and an inexperienced defence matures with age and matches, this new-look Germany has the potential to become one of the most exciting teams in the world for years to come.
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