Germany v Brazil
This has a familiar ring to it. Anybody in the US who followed the 2002 World Cup remembers getting up early in the morning to watch the matches being played in South Korea and Japan. We remember the Final between Brazil and Germany. It's funny how the 2007 Women's World Cup brings us the same countries in the Final.
So much of this tournament has revolved around goalkeepers. Goalkeepers misplaying shots. Goalkeepers misjudging shots. We even had a semifinal goalkeeper controversy. For Germany's Angerer and Brazil's Andreia, it has been a relatively peaceful tournament. That's about to change.
These two goalkeepers and their defenses have been tested sometimes but not by the quality of the attacking squads they are about to face in the Final. There will be plenty of action in their goal areas and they will be asked to make numerous saves during this Final. They will not stop them all.
Germany's multi pronged attack will have Brazilian defenders scrambling to cover the front runners and all the late arriving options. Lingor will direct the attack with Prinz, Smisek, and Garefrekas each working to get in shooting positions. As quick as the Brazilian defenders are, I don't think they'll be able to cope with all the options Germany will have streaming forward.
On the other side, German defenders will have their own problems with the likes of Marta, Cristiane, Daniela, and Formiga making runs at them. Eventually, one or more Brazilians will shred the German defense with their speed & magical touches, and then it'll just be a question as to whether the attackers can finish their chances.
Don't get me wrong, there will be some great defensive efforts and the midfield play will be intense as each team tries to push the ball into the final third. It will, however, be an exciting Final and there will be plenty of opportunities & goals. Germany scored 19 goals and Brazil had 17 goals in their previous five matches. I think that each team will reach their approximate average in what is sure to be an instant classic.
Germany 4 Brazil 3
Showing posts with label WWC07. Show all posts
Showing posts with label WWC07. Show all posts
Sunday, September 30, 2007
Friday, September 28, 2007
Solo is Right, Foudy is Wrong, and Ryan is Just Plain Nuts
In the aftermath of the abysmal performance of TEAM USA in the 2007 WWC semi-final against Brazil on Thursday morning, all the buzz is about Hope Solo.
In a very questionable move, USA coach Greg Ryan started legendary keeper , world cup winner, and olympic gold medalist (and UMASS grad) Brianna Scurry over Solo. His rationale, Brianna has been playing well in practice, and is unbeaten against Brazil. According to Ryan, Scurry's reaction time in certain areas of the pitch were better suited against Brazil than Solo.
So instead of sitting down like "a good girl" and keeping her mouth shut; Solo did what most star keepers would have done. She spoke up.
Going into the semi's, Hope had three clean sheets in a row, and had outstanding performance against North Korea despite letting a very slippery ball through her hands. By all rights the starting position was hers. She didn't do anything to lose the position. So before the match, she went on air and said she wasn't happy about it, but it was the coach's decision, and she had to live with it.
Maybe she knew something Ryan didn't, but the Brazilian team was not phased by the tactical move.
After an own goal by Leslie Osborne and an immediate follow up goal from Brazilian ace, Marta, it began to look as if Ryan had made the wrong decision. Now the own goal was all on Osborne, although Scurry should have called her off. It was a bad judgment call by the defender. However the other goal scored in the first half was pure quality. To get that kind of shot off in traffic takes skill.
But then it unraveled rather quickly for the US. After a bizarre call against Shannon Boxx resulted in a second yellow sent her off, Brazil took over, scoring a third goal from Christiane. But instead of going for more offense, Greg Ryan makes three defensive substitutions. The Brazilians literally danced their way through the rest of the game, scoring a fourth goal in the 79th minute, with Marta driving in the final nail in the coffin. The US lacked the offense, and lost all cohesion in their backfield.
Then Solo spoke out again, much to the dismay of the US Soccer PR department.
She said that it was the wrong decision to switch keepers, and anyone who knew anything about soccer would tell you that. She said she could have made those saves. She said it was wrong to make decisions based on something that happened in the past.
You know what? She's right.
As a former, second string, goalkeeper (high school), I learned the hard way that you have to play the hot hand. If you have an Ace on the bench it doesn't do you any good on the bench. Look at Tim Howard and Casey Keller. Keller is a legend, but Howard was the in form keeper at the Gold Cup, and probably also the 2006 World Cup. Same goes for Oliver Kahn and Jens Lehmann, except in the Germans case, they got it right (nearly). The decision to start Scurry was wrong. That's what Solo said. Granted it was in the heat of the moment, but it was the truth.
Of course the media has spun it around saying that Solo was criticizing her fellow teammate Scurry. Nonsense. If she was criticizing anybody, she was criticizing her coach. She said it was the wrong decision. Well it wasn't Scurry's decision, it was Ryan's. And the statement she made saying that she believed she could have made those saves was not so much a knock on Scurry as it was a firm belief in her own ability and her rapport with her teammates. She had just come off three clean sheets in a row...having shut down one of the more prolific scorers in the tournament in England's Kelly Smith.
Julie Foudy, a legend in her own right, has said that never in the history of the team has anyone criticized a teammate like Solo did and to do so was a breach of some unwritten code. This would be the code that she herself co-authored with Mia Hamm, Brandi Chastain, Kristine Lilly and Brianna Scurry.
Well Julie, despite having more soccer knowlege in her left foot than most of America has collectively, is flat off the mark on this one. As previously stated, Solo was attacking Ryan's decision, a decision that was based on past performance and performance in practice, and not Scurry's talent.
And maybe Julie is living a little in the past too. After all would her coach, Hall of Fame Coach Tony DiCicco, have made such a roster change? I doubt it.
Which brings us to Coach Greg Ryan, who undefeated in 51 straight games (including a match against Brazil), decided not to go with the hot hand but play a wild card instead. I could understand making the switch if Solo had played badly, but this was not the case. I could also understand him making a substitution if the match was tied and it looked as if the game were heading for penalties, for Scurry has an awesome record in shootout decisions. Or even if Solo was clearly not in the game - all these would be valid reasons to bring in Scurry. But to make a tactical decision before the game is even played, to change the anchor of the defense without having a single goal scored against her in three consecutive matches, to effectively handicap your own team the night before the semifinal of the world cup is complete lunacy.
Solo, in my opinion, will likely not start on Sunday, as punishment. But if she doesn't I would resign from the team until a coaching change is made. Solo is a star keeper and she deserves the start. She is an Ace, and she should be treated like an Ace. The coach, however is not playing with a full deck.
In a very questionable move, USA coach Greg Ryan started legendary keeper , world cup winner, and olympic gold medalist (and UMASS grad) Brianna Scurry over Solo. His rationale, Brianna has been playing well in practice, and is unbeaten against Brazil. According to Ryan, Scurry's reaction time in certain areas of the pitch were better suited against Brazil than Solo.
So instead of sitting down like "a good girl" and keeping her mouth shut; Solo did what most star keepers would have done. She spoke up.
Going into the semi's, Hope had three clean sheets in a row, and had outstanding performance against North Korea despite letting a very slippery ball through her hands. By all rights the starting position was hers. She didn't do anything to lose the position. So before the match, she went on air and said she wasn't happy about it, but it was the coach's decision, and she had to live with it.
Maybe she knew something Ryan didn't, but the Brazilian team was not phased by the tactical move.
After an own goal by Leslie Osborne and an immediate follow up goal from Brazilian ace, Marta, it began to look as if Ryan had made the wrong decision. Now the own goal was all on Osborne, although Scurry should have called her off. It was a bad judgment call by the defender. However the other goal scored in the first half was pure quality. To get that kind of shot off in traffic takes skill.
But then it unraveled rather quickly for the US. After a bizarre call against Shannon Boxx resulted in a second yellow sent her off, Brazil took over, scoring a third goal from Christiane. But instead of going for more offense, Greg Ryan makes three defensive substitutions. The Brazilians literally danced their way through the rest of the game, scoring a fourth goal in the 79th minute, with Marta driving in the final nail in the coffin. The US lacked the offense, and lost all cohesion in their backfield.
Then Solo spoke out again, much to the dismay of the US Soccer PR department.
She said that it was the wrong decision to switch keepers, and anyone who knew anything about soccer would tell you that. She said she could have made those saves. She said it was wrong to make decisions based on something that happened in the past.
You know what? She's right.
As a former, second string, goalkeeper (high school), I learned the hard way that you have to play the hot hand. If you have an Ace on the bench it doesn't do you any good on the bench. Look at Tim Howard and Casey Keller. Keller is a legend, but Howard was the in form keeper at the Gold Cup, and probably also the 2006 World Cup. Same goes for Oliver Kahn and Jens Lehmann, except in the Germans case, they got it right (nearly). The decision to start Scurry was wrong. That's what Solo said. Granted it was in the heat of the moment, but it was the truth.
Of course the media has spun it around saying that Solo was criticizing her fellow teammate Scurry. Nonsense. If she was criticizing anybody, she was criticizing her coach. She said it was the wrong decision. Well it wasn't Scurry's decision, it was Ryan's. And the statement she made saying that she believed she could have made those saves was not so much a knock on Scurry as it was a firm belief in her own ability and her rapport with her teammates. She had just come off three clean sheets in a row...having shut down one of the more prolific scorers in the tournament in England's Kelly Smith.
Julie Foudy, a legend in her own right, has said that never in the history of the team has anyone criticized a teammate like Solo did and to do so was a breach of some unwritten code. This would be the code that she herself co-authored with Mia Hamm, Brandi Chastain, Kristine Lilly and Brianna Scurry.
Well Julie, despite having more soccer knowlege in her left foot than most of America has collectively, is flat off the mark on this one. As previously stated, Solo was attacking Ryan's decision, a decision that was based on past performance and performance in practice, and not Scurry's talent.
And maybe Julie is living a little in the past too. After all would her coach, Hall of Fame Coach Tony DiCicco, have made such a roster change? I doubt it.
Which brings us to Coach Greg Ryan, who undefeated in 51 straight games (including a match against Brazil), decided not to go with the hot hand but play a wild card instead. I could understand making the switch if Solo had played badly, but this was not the case. I could also understand him making a substitution if the match was tied and it looked as if the game were heading for penalties, for Scurry has an awesome record in shootout decisions. Or even if Solo was clearly not in the game - all these would be valid reasons to bring in Scurry. But to make a tactical decision before the game is even played, to change the anchor of the defense without having a single goal scored against her in three consecutive matches, to effectively handicap your own team the night before the semifinal of the world cup is complete lunacy.
Solo, in my opinion, will likely not start on Sunday, as punishment. But if she doesn't I would resign from the team until a coaching change is made. Solo is a star keeper and she deserves the start. She is an Ace, and she should be treated like an Ace. The coach, however is not playing with a full deck.
Wednesday, September 26, 2007
Semi Final #2 - What to Expect
USA v Brazil
USA Coach Greg Ryan has caused quite the controversy with his ouster of Hope Solo as starting goalkeeper for this semifinal match against Brazil. He brings in veteran Briana Scurry based on his feeling that Scurry's shot stopping skills will be more important than Solo's stronger and more accurate leg. This may also signal more reliance on the USA possession attack than on the long ball offense they've employed throughout this tournament. How that will work against the very active Brazil team will be one of the important keys to the match.
Another will be how the USA defense copes with the play making & goal scoring abilities of Marta. Past USA v Brazil matches have usually turned into physical battles and that could be the case again as both defenses will probably be marking players very closely. This means that Wambach & Marta will draw plenty of attention and probably fouls close to the goal.
There should be goals in this match for both sides and I think we'll see penalties decide this match. That's where the abilities of Scurry will have to stand out. It'll be tense throughout.
USA 2 Brazil 2 - USA advancing on penalties.
USA Coach Greg Ryan has caused quite the controversy with his ouster of Hope Solo as starting goalkeeper for this semifinal match against Brazil. He brings in veteran Briana Scurry based on his feeling that Scurry's shot stopping skills will be more important than Solo's stronger and more accurate leg. This may also signal more reliance on the USA possession attack than on the long ball offense they've employed throughout this tournament. How that will work against the very active Brazil team will be one of the important keys to the match.
Another will be how the USA defense copes with the play making & goal scoring abilities of Marta. Past USA v Brazil matches have usually turned into physical battles and that could be the case again as both defenses will probably be marking players very closely. This means that Wambach & Marta will draw plenty of attention and probably fouls close to the goal.
There should be goals in this match for both sides and I think we'll see penalties decide this match. That's where the abilities of Scurry will have to stand out. It'll be tense throughout.
USA 2 Brazil 2 - USA advancing on penalties.
Semi Final #1 - Recap
Germany v Norway
At their opportunistic best, Germany wins a place in the Final. Norway seemed to have the better of play for much of the first half but only had a 1-0 deficit to show for it - thanks to a late own goal. The 2nd half saw more even play but Norway just couldn't find the way to Germany's net. Meanwhile, Germany struck twice within three minutes - a deflected shot over Norway's keeper Nordby and a loosely struck backpass that Mueller latched onto. Which ever team faces Germany in the Final, they simply cannot afford to make any errors near their own goal.
Germany 3 Norway 0
FIFA Recap:
http://www.fifa.com/womenworldcup/matches/round=2000001014/match=56335/index.html
At their opportunistic best, Germany wins a place in the Final. Norway seemed to have the better of play for much of the first half but only had a 1-0 deficit to show for it - thanks to a late own goal. The 2nd half saw more even play but Norway just couldn't find the way to Germany's net. Meanwhile, Germany struck twice within three minutes - a deflected shot over Norway's keeper Nordby and a loosely struck backpass that Mueller latched onto. Which ever team faces Germany in the Final, they simply cannot afford to make any errors near their own goal.
Germany 3 Norway 0
FIFA Recap:
http://www.fifa.com/womenworldcup/matches/round=2000001014/match=56335/index.html
ESPN Report: Scurry Replaces Solo for Semi Final
ESPN is reporting that Briana Scurry will be in goal in place of Hope Solo for the semifinal against Brazil.
http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story?id=466854&cc=5901
Scurry has never lost to Brazil.
Perhaps Coach Ryan has been lulling everybody to sleep with his penchant for the Route One attack. Solo's leg strength is a key component to the long ball game. With Scurry in net, will we see a return to the patient buildup from the back? In the 2nd half of the quarterfinal vs. England, the US started to play more of the possession game that USA fans have seen in the past.
The goals were largely opportunistic (Wambach's decisive header, Boxx's tackle & drive to the back of the net, and the miscue by England's keeper) but the USA killed the game by controlling the ball and looked far more effective than they have at any other point in the tournament. It could be that Ryan has been holding back his true intentions. Maybe, he's just been confident that his team is capable of playing more than one style, based upon the opponent.
Should be a very interesting semi final match against Brazil!
http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story?id=466854&cc=5901
Scurry has never lost to Brazil.
Perhaps Coach Ryan has been lulling everybody to sleep with his penchant for the Route One attack. Solo's leg strength is a key component to the long ball game. With Scurry in net, will we see a return to the patient buildup from the back? In the 2nd half of the quarterfinal vs. England, the US started to play more of the possession game that USA fans have seen in the past.
The goals were largely opportunistic (Wambach's decisive header, Boxx's tackle & drive to the back of the net, and the miscue by England's keeper) but the USA killed the game by controlling the ball and looked far more effective than they have at any other point in the tournament. It could be that Ryan has been holding back his true intentions. Maybe, he's just been confident that his team is capable of playing more than one style, based upon the opponent.
Should be a very interesting semi final match against Brazil!
Tuesday, September 25, 2007
Semi Final #1 - What to Expect
Germany v Norway
The first goal will be very important and we could see a very disciplined tactical battle for the first 20 minutes or so. Neither side will want to concede anything early. Germany has been taking full advantage of mistakes made by their opponents. They'll get fewer chances along those lines as Norway will be very sure of themselves. So, it'll be left to Germany to create their own attack. They'll step up the pressure in the 2nd half which will give Norway some counter attacking opportunities. In the end, it'll be Lingor creating the chances for herself, Prinz and Garefrekas.
Germany 3 Norway 1
The first goal will be very important and we could see a very disciplined tactical battle for the first 20 minutes or so. Neither side will want to concede anything early. Germany has been taking full advantage of mistakes made by their opponents. They'll get fewer chances along those lines as Norway will be very sure of themselves. So, it'll be left to Germany to create their own attack. They'll step up the pressure in the 2nd half which will give Norway some counter attacking opportunities. In the end, it'll be Lingor creating the chances for herself, Prinz and Garefrekas.
Germany 3 Norway 1
Monday, September 24, 2007
After Quarterfinals - Where They Stand
16 – Argentina
15 – Ghana
14 – New Zealand
13 – Japan
12 – Nigeria
11 – Canada
10 – Denmark
9 – Sweden
8 – England
2nd Half of quarterfinals had England fall to a well executed set piece with a great header, a strong tackle followed by a great strike, and a goalkeeper miscue. They are still a team that needs a strong finisher so Kelly Smith can get some space to make plays. However, they still are on the cusp of moving into that group of elite teams.
7 – North Korea
The 3-0 score line in the loss to Germany is misleading. North Korea played well but could not finish their chances; Germany could. Again, this is a team not too far away from breaking into the elite group.
6 – China
Despite having the home advantage, they were not able to advance into the semifinals. The retooling will have to continue.
5 – Australia
The Matildas have made great strides in this tournament. The never say die attitude pushed Brazil right down to the wire. They must now be considered a team with a chance to win WWC '11.
4 – Norway
Norway had to grind out a victory against China in order to face Germany in the semifinals. They can never be taken lightly and I'm sure Germany will give them all due respect.
3 – USA
USA finally started to play some flowing soccer in the 2nd half, albeit mostly after they secured a three goal lead. It becomes the team more than the long ball. The USA showed that they are capable of winning it all but which style will do it?
2 – Brazil
Australia poked some holes in Brazil's defense. Brazil did not fold and the tough test came at a good time, just before facing the USA.
1 - Germany
Germany showed once again that they can be opportunistic against a tough team in the quarter finals. They still should be considered the favorite but there's very little separating 1 through 4.
15 – Ghana
14 – New Zealand
13 – Japan
12 – Nigeria
11 – Canada
10 – Denmark
9 – Sweden
8 – England
2nd Half of quarterfinals had England fall to a well executed set piece with a great header, a strong tackle followed by a great strike, and a goalkeeper miscue. They are still a team that needs a strong finisher so Kelly Smith can get some space to make plays. However, they still are on the cusp of moving into that group of elite teams.
7 – North Korea
The 3-0 score line in the loss to Germany is misleading. North Korea played well but could not finish their chances; Germany could. Again, this is a team not too far away from breaking into the elite group.
6 – China
Despite having the home advantage, they were not able to advance into the semifinals. The retooling will have to continue.
5 – Australia
The Matildas have made great strides in this tournament. The never say die attitude pushed Brazil right down to the wire. They must now be considered a team with a chance to win WWC '11.
4 – Norway
Norway had to grind out a victory against China in order to face Germany in the semifinals. They can never be taken lightly and I'm sure Germany will give them all due respect.
3 – USA
USA finally started to play some flowing soccer in the 2nd half, albeit mostly after they secured a three goal lead. It becomes the team more than the long ball. The USA showed that they are capable of winning it all but which style will do it?
2 – Brazil
Australia poked some holes in Brazil's defense. Brazil did not fold and the tough test came at a good time, just before facing the USA.
1 - Germany
Germany showed once again that they can be opportunistic against a tough team in the quarter finals. They still should be considered the favorite but there's very little separating 1 through 4.
Quarter Finals - Recaps
"At the end of the day" (actually two days), all the group winners advance to the semi-finals.
Germany v North Korea
Germany took advantage of their opportunities and North Korea did not. Simple as that. Not an overly impressive outing for the defending champions but the scoreline shows that North Korea, for all its great work at this World Cup, is still a bit aways from true championship form. Not much though.
Germany 3 North Korea 0
FIFA Recap:
http://www.fifa.com/womenworldcup/matches/round=248548/match=56339/index.html
USA v England
A similar story in this quarterfinal with England just not ready to take the step up to the elite level. The USA played its best match in the tourney to date and actually started playing a more flowing passing game once the outcome was decided. Good sign for future matches? USA fans can only hope. Also a plus was seeing Shannon Boxx create a goal for herself with an aggressive tackle and strong strike. She'll be needed for the USA to advance.
USA 3 England 0
US Soccer recap:
http://www.ussoccer.com/articles/viewArticle.jsp_2490382.html
BBC Recap:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/women/7008367.stm
Norway v China
Norway scored early and ground out the victory. China just couldn't get the equaliser and the hosts disappoint the crowd who were hoping that China could return to their form of the late '90s.
Norway 1 China 0
FIFA Recap:
http://www.fifa.com/womenworldcup/matches/round=248548/match=56337/index.html
Brazil v Australia
Brazil was tested and came out on top - not without a few nervous moments. The Matildas just wouldn't quit but couldn't get that equaliser. Just a great match, looks to be the match of the tournament at this point.
Brazil 3 Australia 2
FIFA Recap:
http://www.fifa.com/womenworldcup/matches/round=248548/match=56336/index.html
Germany v North Korea
Germany took advantage of their opportunities and North Korea did not. Simple as that. Not an overly impressive outing for the defending champions but the scoreline shows that North Korea, for all its great work at this World Cup, is still a bit aways from true championship form. Not much though.
Germany 3 North Korea 0
FIFA Recap:
http://www.fifa.com/womenworldcup/matches/round=248548/match=56339/index.html
USA v England
A similar story in this quarterfinal with England just not ready to take the step up to the elite level. The USA played its best match in the tourney to date and actually started playing a more flowing passing game once the outcome was decided. Good sign for future matches? USA fans can only hope. Also a plus was seeing Shannon Boxx create a goal for herself with an aggressive tackle and strong strike. She'll be needed for the USA to advance.
USA 3 England 0
US Soccer recap:
http://www.ussoccer.com/articles/viewArticle.jsp_2490382.html
BBC Recap:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/women/7008367.stm
Norway v China
Norway scored early and ground out the victory. China just couldn't get the equaliser and the hosts disappoint the crowd who were hoping that China could return to their form of the late '90s.
Norway 1 China 0
FIFA Recap:
http://www.fifa.com/womenworldcup/matches/round=248548/match=56337/index.html
Brazil v Australia
Brazil was tested and came out on top - not without a few nervous moments. The Matildas just wouldn't quit but couldn't get that equaliser. Just a great match, looks to be the match of the tournament at this point.
Brazil 3 Australia 2
FIFA Recap:
http://www.fifa.com/womenworldcup/matches/round=248548/match=56336/index.html
Saturday, September 22, 2007
Quarter Finals - What to Expect
Germany v North Korea.
I know that North Korea has come a long way in four years time and I think they are fully capable of playing with any of the top teams in the world. However, I think the difficulty they encountered with Sweden is a signal that Germany could have their way in this match. Birgit Prinz will have to start showing her ’03 form. It's not going to be a dominating German performance but the defending champs will advance.
Germany 2 North Korea 0.
USA v England.
Abby v Kelly. ESPN will be relentless in hyping this tale of the tape. This should be a fascinating match for so many reasons. White & Asante did a tremendous job defending against Germany so Wambach and O'Reilly may find the going tough. US midfield play has been non existent as Coach Ryan goes for the Route One attack. Carney, Yankey and Smith should find space to run but will they be able to finish? At this point, I'd say yes.
England 2 USA 1.
Norway v China.
Hard to pick against a quality team playing on their home field but China looks still to be rebuilding. Norway has already restocked for the most part and will not succumb to the crowd fervor.
Norway 3 China 2 in a thriller.
Brazil v Australia.
Matildas have a top notch manager in Sermanni who will have his team ready to play Brazil. From his WUSA days, he'll be able to draw experience of coaching Brazilians and against them. They'll keep things tight and it'll take a last minute wonder effort from Marta to secure the win. Brazil 1 Australia 0.
I know that North Korea has come a long way in four years time and I think they are fully capable of playing with any of the top teams in the world. However, I think the difficulty they encountered with Sweden is a signal that Germany could have their way in this match. Birgit Prinz will have to start showing her ’03 form. It's not going to be a dominating German performance but the defending champs will advance.
Germany 2 North Korea 0.
USA v England.
Abby v Kelly. ESPN will be relentless in hyping this tale of the tape. This should be a fascinating match for so many reasons. White & Asante did a tremendous job defending against Germany so Wambach and O'Reilly may find the going tough. US midfield play has been non existent as Coach Ryan goes for the Route One attack. Carney, Yankey and Smith should find space to run but will they be able to finish? At this point, I'd say yes.
England 2 USA 1.
Norway v China.
Hard to pick against a quality team playing on their home field but China looks still to be rebuilding. Norway has already restocked for the most part and will not succumb to the crowd fervor.
Norway 3 China 2 in a thriller.
Brazil v Australia.
Matildas have a top notch manager in Sermanni who will have his team ready to play Brazil. From his WUSA days, he'll be able to draw experience of coaching Brazilians and against them. They'll keep things tight and it'll take a last minute wonder effort from Marta to secure the win. Brazil 1 Australia 0.
Friday, September 21, 2007
After Three Rounds - Where They Stand
16 – Argentina
Well, somebody had to fill this slot and they were put there early with that nightmare opener against Germany. Four years to build.
15 – Ghana
Ghana conceded 15 goals and seemed to lose their way as the tournament progressed.
14 – New Zealand
The team settled a bit after the initial match shock of playing Brazil. They only conceded four goals in the next two matches.
13 – Japan
A win (over Argentina in the last minute), a draw, and a loss. They never got fully untracked.
12 – Nigeria
Tough loss to the USA as they nearly had an equaliser in stoppage time. Deflected early goal put them on the back foot but the team played with heart throughout.
11 – Canada
As I thought, the match went down to the final whistle. Unfortunately for Canada the last minute goal by Australia knocked them out.
10 – Denmark
Opening match last minute goal to China kept Denmark from advancing.
9 – Sweden
The WWC ’03 finalists finally showed their abilities in defeating North Korea. Too little too late.
8 – Australia
Matildas advanced through last minute goal by captain Cheryl Salisbury. Brazil can not afford to take them lightly.
7 – England
England showed they could play with the favorites at the World Cup by drawing with Germany. After a shaky start with Japan, they’ve made it to the knockout stage and now must show that they belong in the ranks of the elite teams. Eliminating the US would be the next big step in that direction.
6 – North Korea
Slipped against Sweden but still look like they will be able to push Germany to the very end. Again, another team ready to make that next big step.
5 – China
They survived the group stage and now will meet Norway in an “old school” match up. The fans, the home field, they’ll need it all to get to the semifinals. Just might.
4 – USA
Now, they have to put it together. With Abby Wambach up front, that’s still a real possibility. Three matches to truly lay claim to “The Greatest Team …” tagline.
3 – Norway
Norway starting to put things together but they will be facing the host team in the quarterfinals. Tough draw.
2 – Brazil
Denmark made Brazil look a bit human. They cannot afford to take Australia lightly. They’ll likely get the job done.
1 - Germany
They still look to be the favorite but North Korea will be a tough test in the quarterfinals. Prinz must start to show her ’03 form.
Well, somebody had to fill this slot and they were put there early with that nightmare opener against Germany. Four years to build.
15 – Ghana
Ghana conceded 15 goals and seemed to lose their way as the tournament progressed.
14 – New Zealand
The team settled a bit after the initial match shock of playing Brazil. They only conceded four goals in the next two matches.
13 – Japan
A win (over Argentina in the last minute), a draw, and a loss. They never got fully untracked.
12 – Nigeria
Tough loss to the USA as they nearly had an equaliser in stoppage time. Deflected early goal put them on the back foot but the team played with heart throughout.
11 – Canada
As I thought, the match went down to the final whistle. Unfortunately for Canada the last minute goal by Australia knocked them out.
10 – Denmark
Opening match last minute goal to China kept Denmark from advancing.
9 – Sweden
The WWC ’03 finalists finally showed their abilities in defeating North Korea. Too little too late.
8 – Australia
Matildas advanced through last minute goal by captain Cheryl Salisbury. Brazil can not afford to take them lightly.
7 – England
England showed they could play with the favorites at the World Cup by drawing with Germany. After a shaky start with Japan, they’ve made it to the knockout stage and now must show that they belong in the ranks of the elite teams. Eliminating the US would be the next big step in that direction.
6 – North Korea
Slipped against Sweden but still look like they will be able to push Germany to the very end. Again, another team ready to make that next big step.
5 – China
They survived the group stage and now will meet Norway in an “old school” match up. The fans, the home field, they’ll need it all to get to the semifinals. Just might.
4 – USA
Now, they have to put it together. With Abby Wambach up front, that’s still a real possibility. Three matches to truly lay claim to “The Greatest Team …” tagline.
3 – Norway
Norway starting to put things together but they will be facing the host team in the quarterfinals. Tough draw.
2 – Brazil
Denmark made Brazil look a bit human. They cannot afford to take Australia lightly. They’ll likely get the job done.
1 - Germany
They still look to be the favorite but North Korea will be a tough test in the quarterfinals. Prinz must start to show her ’03 form.
Tea at The Break? - Part Two
85 Goals were scored in the 24 group stage matches.
That breaks down to an average of 3.54 goals per match.
Removing the Germany v Argentina 11-0 opener, the average goes down to 3.21 goals per match.
My tea at the break theory shows that 60 goals were scored in the 2nd half of play. 19 of those were scored after the 80th minute.
Tea : good for attackers, bad for defenders.
or, maybe fitness is the issue?
That breaks down to an average of 3.54 goals per match.
Removing the Germany v Argentina 11-0 opener, the average goes down to 3.21 goals per match.
My tea at the break theory shows that 60 goals were scored in the 2nd half of play. 19 of those were scored after the 80th minute.
Tea : good for attackers, bad for defenders.
or, maybe fitness is the issue?
Groups C & D - Recaps
After dealing with some weather issues, the final round of play took place in Groups C & D Thursday ... or was it Wednesday (days are starting to blend together in this Group stage). Anyway, the quarterfinals are set as well. First, the final group stage recaps:
Group C - Norway v Ghana
Norway geared it up after two tight matches. Ghana simply playing for pride, got their first two goal of the tournament. Gulbrandsen took the goal scoring lead for the tournament with a hat trick - now at 5 scored.
Norway 7 Ghana 2
FIFA Recap:
http://www.fifa.com/womenworldcup/matches/round=248549/match=56321/index.html
Group C - Australia v Canada
What an entertaining match! Canada, needing the win, came out fast and took an early lead. Australia knotted the match at 1 and then Canada kept coming forward, finally getting the go ahead goal with 5 minutes left through Christine Sinclair's header. It looked like they had a place in the quarterfinals secured. Then, Matildas captain, Cheryl Salisbury watched as super sub Lisa de Vanna twisted and turned in the box and then slid a pass her way. Salisbury did not miss and the Matildas were through to the quarterfinals. Great match ... unless you're from Canada.
Australia 2 Canada 2
FIFA Recap:
http://www.fifa.com/womenworldcup/matches/round=248549/match=56320/index.html
Group D - China v New Zealand
New Zealand put forth a great effort to try and hold off China but utimately the hosts prevailed. China advances to the knockout stage in less than convincing fashion but at this point, I'm sure the home supporters were happy to see a win against any competition.
China 2 New Zealand 0
FIFA Recap:
http://www.fifa.com/womenworldcup/matches/round=248549/match=56327/index.html
Group D - Brazil v Denmark
Denmark played Brazil to a draw over 90 minutes but Brazil put in a 91st minute winner to make it a clean sweep - 10 goals scored, none conceeded. Denmark had to feel that Chinese 88th minute winner in the first match sealed their fate and kept them from a place in the knockout stage.
Brazil 1 Denmark 0
FIFA Recap:
http://www.fifa.com/womenworldcup/matches/round=248549/match=56326/index.html
Group C - Norway v Ghana
Norway geared it up after two tight matches. Ghana simply playing for pride, got their first two goal of the tournament. Gulbrandsen took the goal scoring lead for the tournament with a hat trick - now at 5 scored.
Norway 7 Ghana 2
FIFA Recap:
http://www.fifa.com/womenworldcup/matches/round=248549/match=56321/index.html
Group C - Australia v Canada
What an entertaining match! Canada, needing the win, came out fast and took an early lead. Australia knotted the match at 1 and then Canada kept coming forward, finally getting the go ahead goal with 5 minutes left through Christine Sinclair's header. It looked like they had a place in the quarterfinals secured. Then, Matildas captain, Cheryl Salisbury watched as super sub Lisa de Vanna twisted and turned in the box and then slid a pass her way. Salisbury did not miss and the Matildas were through to the quarterfinals. Great match ... unless you're from Canada.
Australia 2 Canada 2
FIFA Recap:
http://www.fifa.com/womenworldcup/matches/round=248549/match=56320/index.html
Group D - China v New Zealand
New Zealand put forth a great effort to try and hold off China but utimately the hosts prevailed. China advances to the knockout stage in less than convincing fashion but at this point, I'm sure the home supporters were happy to see a win against any competition.
China 2 New Zealand 0
FIFA Recap:
http://www.fifa.com/womenworldcup/matches/round=248549/match=56327/index.html
Group D - Brazil v Denmark
Denmark played Brazil to a draw over 90 minutes but Brazil put in a 91st minute winner to make it a clean sweep - 10 goals scored, none conceeded. Denmark had to feel that Chinese 88th minute winner in the first match sealed their fate and kept them from a place in the knockout stage.
Brazil 1 Denmark 0
FIFA Recap:
http://www.fifa.com/womenworldcup/matches/round=248549/match=56326/index.html
Thursday, September 20, 2007
Other Places to Follow the WWC
There's some other great coverage of the WWC out there ... where ever the web truly is.
Georgina Turner & Carrie Dunn show great knowledge of the women's game in general and England's squad in particular at Kickster:
http://www.kickster.tv/china_2007/
Beau Dure offers his usual keen insight at the USA Today:
http://blogs.usatoday.com/sportsscope/soccer/index.html
Be sure to take a look, especially as we head into the knockout stage.
Georgina Turner & Carrie Dunn show great knowledge of the women's game in general and England's squad in particular at Kickster:
http://www.kickster.tv/china_2007/
Beau Dure offers his usual keen insight at the USA Today:
http://blogs.usatoday.com/sportsscope/soccer/index.html
Be sure to take a look, especially as we head into the knockout stage.
Jen O'Neill on the WWC
Jen O'Neill from Fair Game magazine - the expert on women's football in England - offers a look at the Women's World Cup at the NY Times Goal blog:
http://goal.blogs.nytimes.com/2007/09/19/a-week-in-china-from-an-english-perspective/#more-220
http://goal.blogs.nytimes.com/2007/09/19/a-week-in-china-from-an-english-perspective/#more-220
Wednesday, September 19, 2007
USWNT - More on the "Greatest Team ..."
The New York Times dropped their "Select" policy so most of their content is available again, free of charge. Which means we get to read the great writer (and soccer friendly) George Vecsey once more.
Here are a few of his thoughts on the current USWNT squad:
http://select.nytimes.com/2007/09/12/sports/soccer/12vecsey.html?_r=1&ref=soccer&oref=slogin
Gayle Bryan (from Fair Game) and Jere Longman are providing posts from the WWC for the NY Times's Goal Blog:
http://goal.blogs.nytimes.com/tag/womens-world-cup/
Here are a few of his thoughts on the current USWNT squad:
http://select.nytimes.com/2007/09/12/sports/soccer/12vecsey.html?_r=1&ref=soccer&oref=slogin
Gayle Bryan (from Fair Game) and Jere Longman are providing posts from the WWC for the NY Times's Goal Blog:
http://goal.blogs.nytimes.com/tag/womens-world-cup/
Tuesday, September 18, 2007
USWNT - Route One
I've been watching the USA matches in this Women's World Cup and I've struggled to understand why US Soccer is marketing this team as "the greatest team you've never heard of".
They look so disjointed. Sure Abby Wambach is one of the top three players in the world, Kristine Lily is a legend, and there are other outstanding players in the squad. Yet, when I watch them play, I miss seeing the dynamic flowing soccer of previous years.
Then I read these quotes from Coach Greg Ryan and it all made sense & it saddened me:
"Back then, you could get away with playing little passes all over the field and have success doing it. But in the modern game, a team that just knocks the ball around the middle of the park is going to get killed doing it," continued Ryan, who replaced 1991 world champion-turned-coach April Heinrichs in 2005 and signalled a shift from the technique-driven short-passing game to a more physical and direct style.
"If you spend all your time trying to look pretty, you're going to end up with big problems the other way," said Ryan, who lined up alongside Franz Beckenbauer and Carlos Alberto in his playing days with New York Cosmos. "We try to attack, exploit the space and turn it into goals," he said. "This is the only way to play now. Look at what happened to China when they were risking things right in front of their own goal against Brazil. They got stuffed 4-0."
http://www.fifa.com/womenworldcup/news/newsid=598139.html#direct+us+reflect+realities
The US teams of the late '90s and early part of this decade knocked the ball around, made runs and moved the ball from flanks to the inside. There was flair in their game.
Watching the US employ this route one attack today reminds me of how we sneered at Norway's & Canada's simple attack back in the day. Truly sad and likely a losing proposition should Abby Wambach get injured or she gets shut down by an equally physical central defender like England's Faye White.
They look so disjointed. Sure Abby Wambach is one of the top three players in the world, Kristine Lily is a legend, and there are other outstanding players in the squad. Yet, when I watch them play, I miss seeing the dynamic flowing soccer of previous years.
Then I read these quotes from Coach Greg Ryan and it all made sense & it saddened me:
"Back then, you could get away with playing little passes all over the field and have success doing it. But in the modern game, a team that just knocks the ball around the middle of the park is going to get killed doing it," continued Ryan, who replaced 1991 world champion-turned-coach April Heinrichs in 2005 and signalled a shift from the technique-driven short-passing game to a more physical and direct style.
"If you spend all your time trying to look pretty, you're going to end up with big problems the other way," said Ryan, who lined up alongside Franz Beckenbauer and Carlos Alberto in his playing days with New York Cosmos. "We try to attack, exploit the space and turn it into goals," he said. "This is the only way to play now. Look at what happened to China when they were risking things right in front of their own goal against Brazil. They got stuffed 4-0."
http://www.fifa.com/womenworldcup/news/newsid=598139.html#direct+us+reflect+realities
The US teams of the late '90s and early part of this decade knocked the ball around, made runs and moved the ball from flanks to the inside. There was flair in their game.
Watching the US employ this route one attack today reminds me of how we sneered at Norway's & Canada's simple attack back in the day. Truly sad and likely a losing proposition should Abby Wambach get injured or she gets shut down by an equally physical central defender like England's Faye White.
Group D - What to Expect
China v New Zealand
China needs the win to insure passage to the quarterfinals. They will not disappoint their home crowd. New Zealand will put up a fight but eventually will just not be able to stay with China for the full 90 minutes.
China 6 New Zealand 0
Brazil v Denmark
Denmark's task will be huge. They'll have to first defeat Brazil and then overcome a huge goal difference. It's not going to happen. Brazil will complete the sweep of the group and should enter the knockout rounds as one of the favorites to reach the Final.
Brazil 4 Denmark 0
China needs the win to insure passage to the quarterfinals. They will not disappoint their home crowd. New Zealand will put up a fight but eventually will just not be able to stay with China for the full 90 minutes.
China 6 New Zealand 0
Brazil v Denmark
Denmark's task will be huge. They'll have to first defeat Brazil and then overcome a huge goal difference. It's not going to happen. Brazil will complete the sweep of the group and should enter the knockout rounds as one of the favorites to reach the Final.
Brazil 4 Denmark 0
Group C - What to Expect
Norway v Ghana
Four seems a popular number of goals to score against Ghana. I see no reason why Norway shouldn't equal the number set by Australia & Canada, especially since they'll want to win the group in order to avoid Brazil in the quarterfinals.
Norway 4 Ghana 0
Australia v Canada
This will likely be a brusing battle with many chances and end to end action. In the end, I see Australia holding on to the lead under a barrage of last minute shots by Canada. Australia will win the match but lose its grip on Group C's first place. That'll mean that they'll meet Brazil in the quarterfinals. Tough road for Tom Sermanni's Matildas.
Australia 3 Canada 2
Four seems a popular number of goals to score against Ghana. I see no reason why Norway shouldn't equal the number set by Australia & Canada, especially since they'll want to win the group in order to avoid Brazil in the quarterfinals.
Norway 4 Ghana 0
Australia v Canada
This will likely be a brusing battle with many chances and end to end action. In the end, I see Australia holding on to the lead under a barrage of last minute shots by Canada. Australia will win the match but lose its grip on Group C's first place. That'll mean that they'll meet Brazil in the quarterfinals. Tough road for Tom Sermanni's Matildas.
Australia 3 Canada 2
Group B - Recaps
Nigeria v USA
The US did what it needed to do and won but somehow they remain unconvincing in their performances. Not sure what it means. They did win their group and they didn't lose a match. Still one has to wonder how they will fare if Abby Wambach is unable to play. Instead of answering questions, the USA raises more questions with each match played. Give full credit to Nigeria for a hard fought match which wasn't decided until the final kick.
USA 1 Nigeria 0
US Soccer Recap:
http://www.ussoccer.com/articles/viewArticle.jsp_2490369.html
North Korea v Sweden
Sweden showed up a little too late. Had they performed like this against the US or Nigeria, Sweden might be in the quarterfinals. Instead, they go home and wonder what went wrong. Meanwhile, North Korea can gear up to play Germany in one could be the most fascinating match of the quarterfinals.
Sweden 2 North Korea 1
FIFA Recap:
http://www.fifa.com/womenworldcup/matches/round=248549/match=56314/index.html
The US did what it needed to do and won but somehow they remain unconvincing in their performances. Not sure what it means. They did win their group and they didn't lose a match. Still one has to wonder how they will fare if Abby Wambach is unable to play. Instead of answering questions, the USA raises more questions with each match played. Give full credit to Nigeria for a hard fought match which wasn't decided until the final kick.
USA 1 Nigeria 0
US Soccer Recap:
http://www.ussoccer.com/articles/viewArticle.jsp_2490369.html
North Korea v Sweden
Sweden showed up a little too late. Had they performed like this against the US or Nigeria, Sweden might be in the quarterfinals. Instead, they go home and wonder what went wrong. Meanwhile, North Korea can gear up to play Germany in one could be the most fascinating match of the quarterfinals.
Sweden 2 North Korea 1
FIFA Recap:
http://www.fifa.com/womenworldcup/matches/round=248549/match=56314/index.html
Group B - What to Expect
Nigeria v USA
The USA team needs to finally put it together in this last match. Playing Nigeria will force the US to spread the field and try to possess the ball more. They must win to avoid Germany in the quarterfinals. Nigeria still has a chance to advance themselves so this will not be an easy match. Goal differences might affect the group's final standings so this match could go down to the second half stoppage time.
USA 3 Nigeria 1
North Korea v Sweden
Sweden is up against it needing a victory and goals to advance. A three goal victory is needed. They'll be pouring forward and attacking more than they did in the first two matches. They'll get their goals but North Korea will also. Look for a wild final 10 minutes.
Sweden 3 North Korea 2
The USA team needs to finally put it together in this last match. Playing Nigeria will force the US to spread the field and try to possess the ball more. They must win to avoid Germany in the quarterfinals. Nigeria still has a chance to advance themselves so this will not be an easy match. Goal differences might affect the group's final standings so this match could go down to the second half stoppage time.
USA 3 Nigeria 1
North Korea v Sweden
Sweden is up against it needing a victory and goals to advance. A three goal victory is needed. They'll be pouring forward and attacking more than they did in the first two matches. They'll get their goals but North Korea will also. Look for a wild final 10 minutes.
Sweden 3 North Korea 2
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