Wednesday, June 02, 2010

Argentina 2010 FIFA World Cup Player Guide

Below is information on our 23 players who will go to the World Cup. Hope you guys like it, Seba, John and I worked hard on it.

Sergio ROMERO

Age: 23
Club: AZ Alkmaar - Netherlands
National Team Caps: 4
World Cup #: 1
Matches played in World Cup Qualifying: 3
Minutes played in World Cup Qualifying: 270
Yellow Cards in World Cup Qualifying: 1
Red Cards in World Cup Qualifying: 0
A product of Racing Club youth academy. At the FIFA Youth World Cup 2007 in Canada, he has proven his potential to be a top class goalkeeper. He went to Beijing as a substitute of Oscar USTARI, but an injury to Getafe's goalkeeper meant that ROMERO became the first choice and played in the medal rounds and caught Diego's eye. He is now already established as the team's first choice between the posts. El Chiquito (which means 'The small one') was instrumental in our last two World Cup qualifiers, especially against Peru; pulling of a string of miraculous saves whilst in the heavy rain.

Mariano ANDUJAR

Age: 26
Club: Catania - Italy
National Team Caps: 4
World Cup #: 1
Matches played in World cup Qualifying: 3
Minutes played in World Cup Qualifying: 270
Yellow Cards in World Cup Qualifying: 0
Red Cards in World Cup Qualifying: 0
For a brief period, he was Diego’s preferred choice as the team’s No.1 keeper but lost his place after a poor performance against Brazil. He has already had one full season playing for Catania in Italy under his belt, but his biggest impression came at Estudiantes de La Plata with which he won the Copa Libertadores in 2009. A solid and sober goalkeeper with a low profile and a terrific work ethic. Excellent back-up for Sergio ROMERO.

Diego POZO

Age: 32
Club: Colón - Argentina
National Team Caps: 3
World Cup #: 1
Matches played in World cup Qualifying: 0
Minutes played in World Cup Qualifying: 0
Yellow Cards in World Cup Qualifying: 0
Red Cards in World Cup Qualifying: 0
One of the beneficiaries of the 'Domestic National Team' that was created by Alfio BASILE but given real life by Diego MARADONA. Diego POZO impressed playing in the Argentine First Division for Colón de Santa Fé and after a couple of call-ups for friendlies against Panama and Ghana, he was brought to the team for the World Cup qualifiers against Perú and Uruguay (though saw no action in any of those matches).

Nicolas BURDISSO

Age: 29
Club: Roma - Italy
National Team Caps: 26
World Cup #: 2
Matches played in World cup Qualifying: 6
Minutes played in World Cup Qualifying: 371
Yellow Cards in World Cup Qualifying: 0
Red Cards in World Cup Qualifying: 0
National Team Goals: 2
  • Argentina vs. Egypt - March 26, 2008. 2-0 Final Argentina
  • Argentina vs. Mexico - June 4, 2008. 4-1 Final Argentina
    A quality inclusion in Diego’s team considering that he can play either on the right, on the left and in central defence. Another important factor about him is that he is capable of scoring crucial goals from set pieces. Currently in good form after having a great season with Roma. Knows SAMUEL very well from their time together at Boca Juniors and at Inter.

    Clemente RODRIGUEZ

    Age: 28
    Club: Estudiantes de la Plata - Argentina
    National Team Caps: 10
    World Cup #: 1
    Matches played in World cup Qualifying: 0
    Minutes played in World Cup Qualifying: 0
    Yellow Cards in World Cup Qualifying: 0
    Red Cards in World Cup Qualifying: 0
    National Team Goals: 0
    A member of the Olympic Gold Medal winning team from Athens 2004. Since making his debut for the National Team, he has been called on an infrequent basis. Suffered from having a bad game against Brazil in a friendly in London (Argentina lost 3-0 in what was BASILE's first game in charge), though the entire team was suspect that day. A surprise inclusion to many on the team. Despite being right footed, he plays mostly in left back. He is the one Argentine player that looks more similar to the typical Brazilian wing-backs and his speed is something else.

    Martin DEMICHELIS

    Age: 29
    Club: Bayern Munich - Germany
    National Team Caps: 24
    World Cup #: 1
    Matches played in World cup Qualifying: 14
    Minutes played in World Cup Qualifying: 1193
    Yellow Cards in World Cup Qualifying: 5
    Red Cards in World Cup Qualifying: 0
    National Team Goals: 1
  • Argentina vs. Australia - September 11, 2007. 1-0 Final Argentina
    After a surprise omission from 2006, he is sure to be a starter in Diego’s defence in South Africa. He has enormous physical strength plus the ability to win the ball in the air. He could also be deployed as a defensive midfielder, as he has done so in the past. Currently he is in hot form after helping Bayern to win the domestic double plus European success, though he suffered in the Champions League final v. Inter. Had a scare after Michael BALLACK collided with him in March causing DEMICHELIS a broken bone in his face. His recovery was speedy and he managed to play the last few games of the season for Bayern.

    Ariel GARCE

    Age: 30
    Club: Colón - Argentina
    National Team Caps: 3
    World Cup #: 1
    Matches played in World cup Qualifying: 0
    Minutes played in World Cup Qualifying: 0
    Yellow Cards in World Cup Qualifying: 0
    Red Cards in World Cup Qualifying: 0
    National Team Goals: 0
    If somebody put some money a couple of months ago on Ariel GARCE making the World Cup squad, we've got a new millionaire somewhere (probably inside a mental institution!). Nicknamed 'El Chino' (The Chinese or Chinaman), GARCE is a product of the River Plate youth system (same as MASCHERANO, DEMICHELIS and HIGUAIN), but far from having the kind of career the mentioned players had, GARCE stayed most of his career in the Argentine First Division. After a move to Morelia (Mexico) in 2003 that lasted only eight months, GARCE returned to River Plate but soon after that he moved to Colón de Santa Fé. Had spells at Olimpo and Rosario Central, but eventually returned to Colón de Santa Fé where he is still playing these days. In 2005, while playing for Olimpo, GARCE failed a drug test and was suspended for six months. BIELSA had called him back in 2003 for a couple of friendlies but GARCE failed to impress and never make it to the team again until MARADONA called him recently to face Haiti and soon after gave him a spot in the World Cup squad.

    Gabriel HEINZE

    Age: 29
    Club: Olympique Marseille - France
    National Team Caps: 61
    World Cup #: 2
    Matches played in World cup Qualifying: 14
    Minutes played in World Cup Qualifying: 1208
    Yellow Cards in World Cup Qualifying: 2
    Red Cards in World Cup Qualifying: 0
    National Team Goals: 2
  • Argentina vs. Hungary - August 17, 2005. Final 2-1 Argentina
  • Argentina vs. Mexico - July 11, 2007. Final 3-0 Argentina
    Though he might considered by many as the player with the “bad boy” image in the present team, let’s not take away the never say die attitude that he often brings to the team. Since his return to French football, he has rediscovered the pace and strength that he is renowned for and don’t be surprised if we see him taking free kicks or scoring a spectacular goal. Not very well liked by many in Argentina, HEINZE has, however, managed to stay on the national team radar under four different managers (BIELSA, PEKERMAN, BASILE and MARADONA) and has also played for teams such as Manchester United and Real Madrid. Lots of experience but could lose his head at certain moments and could make the team pay the price of his temperament.

    Nicolas OTAMENDI

    Age: 22
    Club: Vélez Sársfield - Argentina
    National Team Caps: 6
    World Cup #: 1
    Matches played in World cup Qualifying: 3
    Minutes played in World Cup Qualifying: 270
    Yellow Cards in World Cup Qualifying: 1
    Red Cards in World Cup Qualifying: 0
    National Team Goals: 0
    One of the most impressive upcoming talents from the Argentine league. Made his debut for Velez Sarsfield on May 10, 2008 when his team defeated Rosario Central 2-1 and never looked back since then. He became one of the main stars in Velez's title-winning campaign in the Torneo Clausura 2009. Attracted interest from big clubs from Italy and he is reportedly on the verge to AC Milan after the World Cup. Natural centre back, Diego prefers to use him as right back and he did so at the Centenario when Argentina clinched their berth at the World Cup and then in Munich for a friendly win over Germany. Calm for his age, quick to react and cover for his team-mates. Good in the air, both in defence and offence. One player that could be the anchor of our defence for years to come.

    Walter SAMUEL

    Age: 32
    Club: Internazionale - Italy
    National Team Caps: 53
    World Cup #: 2
    Matches played in World cup Qualifying: 0
    Minutes played in World Cup Qualifying: 0
    Yellow Cards in World Cup Qualifying: 0
    Red Cards in World Cup Qualifying: 0
    National Team Goals: 4
  • Argentina vs. Venezuela - February 3, 1999. Final 2-0 Argentina
  • Argentina vs. Venezuela - March 28, 2001. Final 5-0 Argentina
  • Argentina vs. Peru - November 8, 2001. Final 2-0 Argentina
  • Argentina vs. Uruguay - August 20, 2003. Final 3-2 Argentina
    A player that doesn’t need any introduction. The man known as “The Wall” was another surprise omission from 2006. But now he is back for good and is expected to form a solid partnership alongside DEMICHELIS at the heart of the National team’s defence. He had an incredible season with Internazionale and became an integral part in their Treble winning campaign. Came up the ranks at Newell's. In Argentina, the youngest category is called NOVENA (NINTH, 13 year-old players) and it goes up from there all the way to the CUARTA (FOURTH -17 year-old players-). When SAMUEL was at Newell's, he was part of an incredibly tough defensive unit that won the SEXTA (SIXTH) league title. Back then, his surname was LUJAN (then changed it to his mother's surname). His team-mates in defence? Lionel SCALONI, Facundo QUIROGA (currently at River Plate) and Gabriel HEINZE.

    Jonas GUTIERREZ

    Age: 26
    Club: Newcastle United - England
    National Team Caps: 15
    World Cup #: 1
    Matches played in World cup Qualifying: 7
    Minutes played in World Cup Qualifying: 556
    Yellow Cards in World Cup Qualifying: 3
    Red Cards in World Cup Qualifying: 0
    National Team Goals: 1
  • Argentina vs. France - February 11, 2009. Final 2-0 Argentina
    Another key figure in Diego’s team. Spider-Man is expected to start on the right wing but can also be deployed to play in right back. Either way, he is absolutely a true workaholic as he is often seen all over the pitch; helping the team in both going forward from the flanks and tracking down to assist the defence. Was instrumental in helping Newcastle gaining promotion back to the Premiership. Admirable lung power and long legs that earned him the nickname of 'El Galgo' (The Greyhound).

    Javier MASCHERANO

    Age: 25
    Club: Liverpool - England
    National Team Caps: 55
    World Cup #: 2
    Matches played in World cup Qualifying: 16
    Minutes played in World Cup Qualifying: 1413
    Yellow Cards in World Cup Qualifying: 5
    Red Cards in World Cup Qualifying: 0
    National Team Goals: 2
  • Argentina vs. Paraguay - July 5, 2007. Final 1-0 Argentina
  • Argentina vs. Peru - July 8, 2007. Final 4-0 Argentina
    In Diego’s eyes, he is the ideal player to exemplify what wearing the Argentine shirt is all about. A reason that lead Diego to name MASCHERANO as the captain of the team. No need to argue, as Masche plays with tremendous intensity and at his best, there is no better ball winning tough tackling defensive midfielder in the world. The only footballer in the history of the Olympics to win back to back gold medals.

    Juan Sebastian VERON

    Age: 35
    Club: Estudiantes de la Plata - Argentina
    National Team Caps: 70
    World Cup #: 3
    Matches played in World cup Qualifying: 7
    Minutes played in World Cup Qualifying: 443
    Yellow Cards in World Cup Qualifying: 1
    Red Cards in World Cup Qualifying: 1
    National Team Goals: 9
  • Argentina vs. Paraguay - July 6, 1997. Final 2-1 Argentina
  • Argentina vs. Brazil - September 4, 1999. Final 2-0 Argentina
  • Argentina vs. Chile - March 29, 2000. Final 4-1 Argentina
  • Argentina vs. Chile - March 29, 2000. Final 4-1 Argentina
  • Argentina vs. Peru - September 3, 2000. Final 2-1 Argentina
  • Argentina vs. Venezuela - March 28, 2001. Final 5-0 Argentina
  • Argentina vs. Ecuador - August 15, 2001. Final 2-0 Argentina
  • Argentina vs. Cameroon - March 27, 2002. Final 2-2 Draw
  • Argentina vs. Uruguay - August 20, 2003. Final 3-2 Argentina
    If there ever was a story of redemption in this World Cup, La Brujita fits the bill perfectly. Eight years after being criticized heavily for Argentina’s failure in 2002, he is back to lead the Albiceleste midfield. Though considered being slow due to his age, he still possess the visionary and perceptive passing that made him famous. He won the Copa Libertadores and the MVP award with Estudiantes in 2009 and helped them being on the verge of beating Lionel MESSI and Barcelona at the FIFA Club World Cup in Dubai. Won the award as best player in South America in 2008 and 2009.

    Angel DI MARIA

    Age: 22
    Club: Benfica - Portugal
    National Team Caps: 7
    World Cup #: 1
    Matches played in World cup Qualifying: 5
    Minutes played in World Cup Qualifying: 235
    Yellow Cards in World Cup Qualifying: 0
    Red Cards in World Cup Qualifying: 1
    National Team Goals: 2, 1 Unofficial
  • UNOFFICIAL FIFA MATCH: Argentina vs. Catalunya - December 22, 2009. Final 4-2 Catalunya
    Argentina vs. Canada - May 24, 2010. Final 5-0 Argentina
    One of the best and world class wingers in the world. He is expected to start on the left wing. The scorer of Argentina's gold medal winning goal in Beijing 2008 with a glorious chip against Nigeria. His ball control, dribbling skills and shooting ability will be crucial in Diego’s plan. Already speculated for a big transfer among Europe’s biggest clubs after the World Cup. Can be a bit selfish and reluctant to pass the ball around.

    Mario BOLATTI

    Age: 25
    Club: Fiorentina - Italy
    National Team Caps: 3
    Matches played in World cup Qualifying: 1
    Minutes played in World Cup Qualifying: 11
    Yellow Cards in World Cup Qualifying: 0
    Red Cards in World Cup Qualifying: 0
    National Team Goals: 1
  • Argentina vs. Uruguay - October 14, 2009. Final 1-0 Argentina
    A classy defensive midfielder in the mould of Fernando REDONDO (though BOLATTI is not quite the complete package). Very intelligent to always get himself in a good position. Though most people give Martín PALERMO all the credit for scoring against Perú, it was BOLATTI's goal at the Centenario v. Uruguay which gave Argentina the ticket for South Africa. BOLATTI has a good long distance shot and a great ability to always find a team-mate with his varied range of passing.

    Maxi RODRIGUEZ

    Age: 29
    Club: Liverpool - England
    National Team Caps: 35
    World Cup #: 2
    Matches played in World cup Qualifying: 8
    Minutes played in World Cup Qualifying: 410
    Yellow Cards in World Cup Qualifying: 1
    Red Cards in World Cup Qualifying: 0
    National Team Goals: 11
  • Argentina vs. Hungary - August 17, 2005. Final 2-1 Argentina
  • Argentina vs. Angola - May 30, 2006. Final 2-0 Argentina
  • Argentina vs. Serbia and Montenegro - June 16, 2006. Final 6-0 Argentina
  • Argentina vs. Serbia and Montenegro - June 16, 2006. Final 6-0 Argentina
  • Argentina vs. Mexico - June 24, 2006. Final 2-1 Argentina AET
  • Argentina vs. Norway - August 22, 2007. Final 2-1 Norway
  • Argentina vs. Mexico - June 4, 2008. Final 4-1 Argentina
  • Argentina vs. Scotland - November 19, 2008. Final 1-0 Argentina
  • Argentina vs. Venezuela - March 28, 2009. Final 4-0 Argentina
  • Argentina vs. Canada - May 24, 2010. Final 5-0 Argentina
  • Argentina vs. Canada - May 24, 2010. Final 5-0 Argentina
    In Germany, La Fiera was the darling of Argentina after that spectacular goal against Mexico and some sublime performances on the field. His current form has not been the same as it was four years ago but still he could provide plenty of firepower from the flanks. A quality addition to the team. He is unlikely to start but can be a useful back up to either GUTIERREZ or DI MARIA on the wing. His scoring average for Argentina is nothing short of impressive with a goal almost every three matches. He is also the only player from our current World Cup squad with more than one goal scored in World Cup matches (he's got three -two against Serbia and Montenegro and his memorable gem v. Mexico-).

    Javier PASTORE

    Age: 20
    Club: Palermo - Italy
    National Team Caps: 1 Unofficial
    World Cup #: 1
    Matches played in World cup Qualifying: 0
    Minutes played in World Cup Qualifying: 0
    Yellow Cards in World Cup Qualifying: 0
    Red Cards in World Cup Qualifying: 0
    National Team Goals: 1 Unofficial
  • UNOFFICIAL FIFA MATCH: Argentina vs. Catalunya - December 22, 2009. Final 4-2 Catalunya
    Javier PASTORE looks like a lanky guy you wouldn't bet he'd be any good at any sport, but he's got sublime feet and a football brain that is better than the average. He is the youngest member of the team and Diego has a lot of confidence in him. Not your traditional Argentine playmaker, PASTORE can still do the job. Great shot from outside, terrific dribbling skill for someone that tall and a great nose for the killer pass. Had a great first season at Palermo and almost helped them clinch a historical qualification to the UEFA Champions League.

    Lionel MESSI

    Age: 22
    Club: FC Barcelona - Spain
    National Team Caps: 44
    World Cup #: 2
    Matches played in World cup Qualifying: 18
    Minutes played in World Cup Qualifying: 1606
    Yellow Cards in World Cup Qualifying: 1
    Red Cards in World Cup Qualifying: 0
    National Team Goals: 13
  • Argentina vs. Croatia - March 1, 2006. Final 3-2 Croatia
  • Argentina vs. Serbia and Montenegro - June 16, 2006. Final 6-0 Argentina
  • Argentina vs. Algeria - June 5, 2007. Final 4-3 Argentina
  • Argentina vs. Algeria - June 5, 2007. Final 4-3 Argentina
  • Argentina vs. Peru - July 8, 2007. Final 4-0 Argentina
  • Argentina vs. Mexico - July 11, 2007. Final 3-0 Argentina
  • Argentina vs. Venezuela - October 16, 2007. Final 2-0 Argentina
  • Argentina vs. Colombia - November 20, 2007. Final 2-1 Colombia
  • Argentina vs. Mexico - June 4, 2008. Final 4-1 Argentina
  • Argentina vs. Uruguay - October 11, 2008. Final 2-1 Argentina
  • Argentina vs. France - February 11, 2009. Final 2-0 Argentina
  • Argentina vs. Venezuela - March 28, 2009. Final 4-0 Argentina
  • Argentina vs. Spain - November 14, 2009. Final 2-1 Spain
    Current FIFA World Player of the Year, the closest the World has gotten to Diego MARADONA, Lionel MESSI heads into the FIFA World Cup in fine form. Scoring 47 goals for Barcelona this past season, the pressure will be on the little man to try and deliver the goods for the Albiceleste and lead us to a third World Cup crown. He has already scored at a World Cup (getting one v. Serbia and Montenegro in 2006), but images of him ending Germany 2006 sitting on the bench still hurts Lionel. Without wanting to compare him with MARADONA, but at his age, MESSI is coming to his second World Cup (Diego had only one -Spain 1982-) and he still has time on his side.

    Gonzalo HIGUAIN

    Age: 22
    Club: Real Madrid - Spain
    National Team Caps: 4
    World Cup #: 1
    Matches played in World cup Qualifying: 2
    Minutes played in World Cup Qualifying: 146
    Yellow Cards in World Cup Qualifying: 0
    Red Cards in World Cup Qualifying: 0
    National Team Goals: 2
  • Argentina vs. Peru - October 10, 2009. Final 2-1 Argentina
  • Argentina vs. Germany - March 3, 2010. Final 1-0 Argentina
    After plenty of uncertainty surrounding him, we can now easily say that he is ours forever and France can look elsewhere to get their goals from. Diego has entrusted him to wear the No.9 shirt, previously held by Gabriel BATISTUTA and Hernan CRESPO. He is in hot form despite facing tough competition for minutes at Real Madrid, as he ended up being their top scorer with 29 goals in all competitions. Can score with both feet and with his head. Very intelligent and fast to get himself into scoring position, though he has been criticized for not passing the ball to his team-mates at certain points, but hey...so was BATISTUTA.

    Carlos TEVEZ

    Age: 26
    Club: Manchester City - England
    National Team Caps: 51
    World Cup #: 2
    Matches played in World cup Qualifying: 12
    Minutes played in World Cup Qualifying: 750
    Yellow Cards in World Cup Qualifying: 2
    Red Cards in World Cup Qualifying: 2
    National Team Goals: 9
  • Argentina vs. Peru - July 17, 2004. Final 1-0 Argentina
  • Argentina vs. Colombia - July 20, 2004. Final 3-0 Argentina
  • Argentina vs. Croatia - March 1, 2006. Final 3-2 Croatia
  • Argentina vs. Serbia and Montenegro - June 16, 2006. Final 6-0 Argentina
  • Argentina vs. Switzerland - June 2, 2007. Final 1-1 Draw
  • Argentina vs. Algeria - June 5, 2007. Final 4-3 Argentina
  • Argentina vs. United States - June 28, 2007. Final 4-1 Argentina
  • Argentina vs. Venezuela - March 28, 2009. Final 4-0 Argentina
  • Argentina vs. Canada - May 24, 2010. Final 5-0 Argentina
    The change of scenery in Manchester did the trick for Carlitos as he rediscovered the same type of form that made him such an astonishing forward a few years ago. He was City’s top scorer with 29 goals in all competitions and was voted as the club’s Player of the Season. He still needs to transform that form into the National Team. He was sent off twice (Colombia away and Paraguay at home, both during the first half) during the qualifying round and missed a penalty that would have put Argentina 1-0 ahead in Quito against Ecuador. However, he is still regarded as the people's favourite in Argentina and his heart is even bigger than his enormous talent.

    Diego MILITO

    Age: 30
    Club: Internazionale - Italy
    National Team Caps: 21
    World Cup #: 1
    Matches played in World cup Qualifying: 6
    Minutes played in World Cup Qualifying: 157
    Yellow Cards in World Cup Qualifying: 0
    Red Cards in World Cup Qualifying: 0
    National Team Goals: 4
  • Argentina vs. Honduras - January 31, 2003. Final 3-1 Argentina
  • Argentina vs. Uruguay - July 16, 2003. Final 2-2 Draw
  • Argentina vs. Uruguay - July 16, 2003. Final 2-2 Draw
  • Argentina vs. Colombia - July 2, 2007. Final 4-2 Argentina
    One very strange case of a player that is much better at the age of 30 than at 20 or 22. MILITO has been improving since he first made it to Racing Club's first team in 1999. Often questioned by some fans who argue that his scoring record for Argentina is poor, but they fail to see that he only played one complete game in those 21 caps he earned for the Albicelestes. What happened that day in which he played the full 90 minutes? He scored two goals against Uruguay (BIELSA was the manager). His move to Inter before last season, finally put him on the map and his title-winning goals in Coppa Italia, Serie A and, most importantly, UEFA Champions League, were the platform he needed to get the unanimous recognition he is enjoying. Whether that translates into minutes at the World Cup remains to be seen.

    Sergio AGUERO

    Age: 21
    Club: Atletico Madrid - Spain
    National Team Caps: 21
    World Cup #: 1
    Matches played in World cup Qualifying: 12
    Minutes played in World Cup Qualifying: 693
    Yellow Cards in World Cup Qualifying: 0
    Red Cards in World Cup Qualifying: 0
    National Team Goals: 8
  • Argentina vs. Bolivia - November 17, 2007. Final 3-0 Argentina
  • Argentina vs. Egypt - March 26, 2008. Final 2-0 Argentina
  • Argentina vs. Mexico - June 4, 2008. Final 4-1 Argentina
  • Argentina vs. Paraguay - September 6, 2008. Final 1-1 Draw
  • Argentina vs. Uruguay - October 11, 2008. Final 2-1 Argentina
  • Argentina vs. Venezuela - March 28, 2009. Final 4-0 Argentina
  • Argentina vs. Russia - August 12, 2009. Final 3-2 Argentina
  • Argentina vs. Canada - May 24, 2010. Final 5-0 Argentina
    He blossomed early. He is the only player in history to win back-to-back FIFA Youth World Cup titles. He won it with MESSI and co. in The Netherlands 2005 and then led the young Albiceleste to another success in Canada 2007, earning top-scorer and MVP individual awards. It is often forgotten that he is only 21! He has already established himself as one of the best forwards in the world and has helped Atletico Madrid to win the UEFA Europa League. Lethal when he is one-on-one with a defender and has a ton of tricks when it comes to finishing. Not in vain he became known as ROMARITO (Little ROMARIO) as he was compared by Cesar Luis MENOTTI (Argentina manager in 1978) with the great Brazilian striker.

    Martin PALERMO

    Age: 36
    Club: Boca Juniors - Argentina
    National Team Caps: 13
    World Cup #: 1
    Matches played in World cup Qualifying: 2
    Minutes played in World Cup Qualifying: 75
    Yellow Cards in World Cup Qualifying: 1
    Red Cards in World Cup Qualifying: 0
    National Team Goals: 8
  • Argentina vs. Ecuador - July 1, 1999. Final 3-1 Argentina
  • Argentina vs. Ecuador - July 1, 1999. Final 3-1 Argentina
  • Argentina vs. Uruguay - July 7, 1999. Final 2-0 Argentina
  • Argentina vs. Ghana - September 30, 2009. Final 2-0 Argentina
  • Argentina vs. Ghana - September 30, 2009. Final 2-0 Argentina
  • Argentina vs. Peru - October 10, 2009. Final 2-1 Argentina
  • Argentina vs. Jamaica - February 10, 2010. Final 2-1 Argentina
  • Argentina vs. Haiti - May 5, 2010. Final 4-0 Argentina
    Adored by Boca Juniors fans, mocked by fans of other clubs until they had to shut up and respect him and his impressive goal-scoring tally. He has become Boca Juniors' all-time top-scorer (not an easy feat, believe me). He is an example of professionalism, determination and hard work. Recovered from many career-threatening injuries and came back stronger after each of them. He is still haunted by his three penalty-kick misses in one single match (against Colombia at the 1999 Copa America), but through his tenacity and incredibly big heart, has managed to put that behind him. Scored a crucial goal in the World Cup Qualifiers against Peru and all but secured his presence in South Africa when MARADONA was still sliding down the Monumental turf on his belly.
  • 39 comments:

    1. I guess that's why your our stats guy.. Good job, Thanks Roy.

      VAMOS!!

      ReplyDelete
    2. GREAT REPORT!! THANKS ROY!!

      ReplyDelete
    3. Anonymous10:50 am

      Gabriel Heinze is 32 years old, not 29.

      Veron should go to hollywood after his career. i see him as an evil russian in many american b-action-movies.

      Vitalij

      ReplyDelete
    4. Anonymous11:08 am

      For me milito always been a great player. He had shown his talent at zaragoza but no big club give him an offer. They failed to see his potential. Even in a weak team he can score many goals.

      Sir Raul

      ReplyDelete
    5. Excellent job, thank you! I have forwarded the link up and down my contact list, especially to the "non-believers" ;-) Vamos Argentina!

      ReplyDelete
    6. schmuck11:53 am

      Happy Birthday KUN AGUERO!!!

      ReplyDelete
    7. Anonymous12:09 pm

      Força Albiceleste !

      ReplyDelete
    8. Alex Camacho2:43 pm

      I was asked and thought I'd see what everyone else thought. I think this is Diego's depth chart by position. Does anyone see any errors (in my guess, not in Diego's decision)?

      GK
      Romero
      Andujar
      Pozo

      RB
      Otamendi
      Jonás
      Burdisso
      Garce

      CB
      Demichelis
      Samuel
      Burdisso

      LB
      Heinze
      C Rodriguez
      Burdisso

      DMF
      Mascherano
      Bolatti
      Burdisso
      Demichelis

      RW
      Jonás
      Maxi

      CM
      Veron
      Pastore

      LW
      Di Maria
      Maxi

      Supporting F (#7)
      Messi
      Tevez
      Agüero

      F (#9)
      Higuain
      Palermo
      Milito

      ReplyDelete
    9. Anonymous2:58 pm

      BLOODY HELL LADS THATS SOME SERIOUS EFFORT THANK U VERY MUCH ,got me in world cup mood anyway

      oh go over to goal.com they have a 10 things that should be banned from the world cup its both true and funny

      ReplyDelete
    10. Anonymous3:17 pm

      just a cpl of additions

      MARIO BOLATTI has the longest neck in world football lol

      KUN-AGUERO cannot deside wether his a male model a pop star a football player a maradona family hanger on or a kids cartoon charictor LOL

      ReplyDelete
    11. Anonymous4:16 pm

      When will the new podcast be released?

      ReplyDelete
    12. Anonymous4:49 pm

      messi looks like qozi modo garce looks like paul gearing a guy i went school with in the 80s and the both of them garce and paul gearing look like madici(spelling) from the film children of the corn lol

      ReplyDelete
    13. salvio supporter4:55 pm

      "Garcé looks like..." - Anonymous, your comment is the one that made me laugh the most, ever.

      By the way, didn't know Milito was so "old". And still can't believe Otamendi is there.

      ReplyDelete
    14. Alex Camacho5:12 pm

      About 1/2 (Otamendi, Di Maria, Messi, Higuain and Romero) of our likely starters are 23 or younger. That's amazing.

      ReplyDelete
    15. Once again, great job fellas! Who needs World Cup preview magazines when you have Seba, John and Roy?

      VAMOS MUNDO!!!!

      ReplyDelete
    16. Hi John,Seba & Roy,
      Well its a gr8 blogging site that i h've discovered lately.However thanks 4 this u might h've work really hard on this!.
      Roy,can we get an insight on which formation we will be using or which would be better with the tem combination we h've.
      VAMOS ARGENTINA!!!!!!!!

      ReplyDelete
    17. Renjith10:51 pm

      Great Information.....
      The best site of Argentine Football Fans...

      ReplyDelete
    18. Thanks Roy for putting it together! Glad everyone seem to like what we did. It makes me happy.

      Regarding a new podcast edition? I'm sorry to tell you all that my grandpa is back in hospital (hopefully he will be released on Thursday) and I'm staying the nights with him. That makes it impossible for me to join John and Roy and record a podcast at the usual time in which we do it.

      We will do our very best to have at least one edition before the World Cup and as many as we possibly can DURING the tournament. We have been thinking of ideas and we have a number of guests lined up to make the best possible podcast show.

      In the meantime, let me plug this here. There's a new post I wrote for Soccernet.

      Hope you like it:

      http://blogs.soccernet.com/argentina/

      It's 'Good Diego v. Bad Diego. Who wins?'

      ReplyDelete
    19. Argentina4life2:59 am

      Grt work guys!!! really u all put up big afford... really impressive... VAMOS ARGENTINA!!!!

      ReplyDelete
    20. Hey Seba, great article on Sportsnet, I really enjoyed it. But I noticed the coin you flipped was a double sided tails coin. Not sure if you meant to flip that one or if it was a typo hahaha....


      Any updates regarding training? I am wondering what the chances are of seeing Jonas play as an attacking right back. I think he better suits that position instead of playing in the midfield. An attacking wing back is what Argentina lacks and I think Jonas is the perfect fit. Wouldn't it be great if Argentina had their own Dani Alves, Maicon or even Sergio Ramos?

      ReplyDelete
    21. Great Work; Thank you.

      ReplyDelete
    22. Hey GK! It was a tails-tails kind of coin! hahaha! Mistake fixed. Thanks for spotting it and letting me know. Appreciated.

      Regarding training...the media reporting from Pretoria have not had the chance to watch any of the training sessions and the only information they seem to be able to get is whatever Kun AGÜERO writes on his Twitter account.

      But in a few minutes (hours) the media will have access to the players and they will also be able to see some of the training moves.

      We will be reporting as soon as we hear something coming from that training camp.

      ReplyDelete
    23. Anonymous9:57 am

      there not performing seals why the fuk have the media got to watch them train for WHY it has no perpose other than being nosy

      ReplyDelete
    24. pastore played 1 or 2 offcll game anyway...agnst canada...
      watt abt germany and russia??


      INCLUDE PLAYER'S DEBUTES ALSO IF CAN...
      SOME I HAVE GIVEN IN a4argentina.blogspot.com....

      ReplyDelete
    25. Anonymous3:13 pm

      Seba, I read your article in WC blog. Great one. I enjoy it. Well, I have some opinion about Maradona regime. I know, lost to Bolivia 6-1 and Brazil 1-3 is shameful. But, personally I percieve at the time Maradona still searching formula and adaptation process. He use many players, scheme or tactics. He took over the job where team performance very poor and under pressure. He had to solve this crisis in short time. Include facing many doubters and critics.

      Statistic shows the result not too dissapointed. Four wins in 8 game. Compare to Basile, only one win in 7 match (including lost point from games that actually we must or can win). It means, Maradona with less experiences much better than Basile. Do you think this is bad or good diego?

      - charlie -

      ReplyDelete
    26. I think BASILE hurt his own reputation during his second spell as Argentina boss. He was quite good and I still remember how we were winning practically every match during his first period as manager. Unfortunately, Diego's doping happened in USA 94 and that great team we had crashed.

      The newest version of BASILE looked out of touch with his players. It was like if he had stayed in time while life and football changed dramatically over the last couple of decades.

      It wouldn't be fair to compare Diego with BASILE because, lets face it, Diego is only coaching because he is Diego and this is Argentina.

      In my opinion, he still needs to learn a lot and get some experience before we can compare him with any other manager.

      I think we have to analyse what Diego did, does and will do and compare it to nobody else. He is in a very different 'zone' (if you know what I mean).

      ReplyDelete
    27. just want to say thank you to you guys. This is really great.. And Seba, I really like your blog at Soccernet esp. the one that you write about Diego's 'bizarre' selection, you are a very good journalist...

      ReplyDelete
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