Mundo's Best Of 2008

The time has come for us to reveal Mundo’s Top 10 Best of 2008. It feels like just yesterday since I wrote my first article (the 2006 version). I must say that looking back; it has been an incredible journey to see just how far this blog has arrived. Please take note of this. Seba started this revolution during the 2006 World Cup and now we are more or less 18 months away from South Africa 2010. Incredible, right!

Now back to our Top 10 Review, it was a real challenge as I needed to give some serious consideration on who is in and who is not. So let’s get into our countdown right away.

10. PGA’s Tour Top Rookie

Pretty quite year in golf. However for his sole title win at the Zurich Classis and his massive climb in the tour rakings, Andres ROMERO was named by the PGA as their rookie of the year. With his steady rise, the Albiceleste has a new name in the game of golf besides Pato.

9. Juan of a Kind

For years, we have been asking for some one who can be a solid performer in every surface. Well after a 23 match unbeaten run, 4 ATP titles and a Top 10 finish in the world rakings, in Juan Martin DEL POTRO we finally have an answer to that question.

8. Another Scudetto for Pupi

It’s not like Javier ZANETTI has never won it before. This time the script was entirely different. All the big guns where there, no points deduction or off the pitch technology interference. To the rest of you in Serie A, stop giving excuse. This want belong to Il Capitano.

7. Her Royal Lioness

Already in her 30s I’m wondering will there be another like her. But for now, we salute our very own Queen of the Albiceleste. Though she did not accomplish her goal in Beijing, she was still named as the FIH Women’s Player of the Year award for the record of 5 times.

6. 6th Million Dollar MANu

Of course, he would have preferred a championship ring and many would prefer to see him as a starter. But we all know Manu GINOBILI for his humbleness and humility; he will give everything for his team. The 6th Man Award is another recognition for his contribution.

5. Paton, Coach of the Year

For the first time we have someone from the dugout in our countdown. It was impossible to leave Edgardo BAUZA out, especially after taking an unfashionable Ecuadorian side to become the best in South America and the second best club in the World.

4. Paddling On Top of the World

First of all, thanks to Akash for highlighting this interesting news to me (sometime back in August). Though this particular sport was unknown to me (still is) but the fact still remains that this is the only World Championship that we won this year. And that is all that matters.

3. So Close, Yet So Far

How much unlucky can you get? It was painful to loose to Spain without Rafael NADAL and at HOME for that matter. Nevertheless I won’t take away the fighting spirit that was displayed by our racquet kings, especially that game from Jose ACASUSO.

2. King Carlitos, the Conqueror

From England to Europe and the World, he came, he saw and he kills em all. Apparently it looks like Carlos TEVEZ trophy cabinet keeps expanding every season. Carlos, I hope you hear my 2009 wishes; bring those good omens you have at club level to the national team please!!!

1. The 2008 Beijing Olympic Contingent

When I was reviewing the list medal winners at the Beijing Olympic Games, I’ve realized that each one of them had its own story to tell. So I guess it was fair enough to lump together as one because each medals has its own uniqueness.

The Albiceleste Army did meet our expectation (football), surprise us in some ways (judo, cycling, and sailing) and were also pretty unlucky as well (hockey and basketball). But overall, it was pure joy and excitement watching them playing every time.

In total we won two gold and four bronze, equaling our tally from the Athens Game four years earlier. On top of that, it was a pleasure to see our great Diego showing up for the Games. He was seen at the football stadium, basketball gymnasium and even at the hockey stadium, giving his unconditional support to the Albiceleste.

Once again another year has just passed by and we will know look forward to a brand new one. I’m sure there will be plenty left in store for us. Most importantly you know that for all the latest updates, this is the place to be. Seba and I will do our best to keep it coming for you.

Now before I end this article, we at Mundo would like to show our gratitude to some great people out there. As you know that we have always like to share our space with other readers.

So, a BIG thank you goes out to Alwin from Malaysia, Sam from Raptorstalk, David from Dream Shake, Mauro from The Offside – Copa Libertadores, Jon from Pitaco Do Gringo’s and Halley from Built from Scratch. We truly appreciate each and every one of your contributions to this blog. Last be not least, muchos gracias to all our respective readers. It was always a pleasure reading your thoughts and comments that you have posted here.

To me, the importance of this blog it’s not just about a place where Albiceleste supporters can able voice out his/her opinions. But it is also a place where we have the opportunity to make and meet new friends.

With that, Mundo Albiceleste would like to wish to all our readers a very Happy New Year 2009 and the best of luck in the future.

VAMOS VAMOS ARGENTINA!!!

Mundo's 2008 Other Sports Review

Anyone who follows this blog will know that there is more to the Albiceleste than football. The year 2008 has also seen plenty of ups and downs in other areas as well. After all there was plenty of expectation in other sports as the Olympic approaches.

Tennis

Just like in recent years, David NALBANDIAN was still our best hope of winning a Grand Slam. But it was huge disappointing year from him as suffered early exit in all four of them. He still did manage to win two titles in the ATP circuit and almost finished in the Top 10 of the ranking.

However it was Juan Martin DEL POTRO that stole the show for 2008. During the month of July and August he embarked on a 23 match unbeaten run that saw him winning four ATP titles and reaching the US Open last 8. This enable him to finish at No.9 in the World Rankings as well.

Perhaps the saddest news of the year was in the Davis Cup final. Once again, it was DEL POTRO that became the main difference when he was unlucky to suffer an injury during his Day 1 singles tie. It was just unfortunate that after a great run in reaching the final, we had to face some bad luck and losing to Spain on home soil.

At least for now, with NALBANDIAN having a side kick in the form of DEL POTRO, we can say there is a big hope in 2009.

Basketball

Though it was disappointing to see after great run, Manu GINOBILI was unable to win another NBA Championship ring. But still he never finishes the year empty handed. He lead the San Antonio Spurs in terms scoring and was voted as this year’s 6th Man of the Year for his strong performance from the bench.

Second to him was Luis SCOLA who had a great year in his rookie season with the Houston Rockets. It wasn’t that bad from Carlos DELFINO in which he had plenty of big nights with the Toronto Raptors. While Andres NOCIONI from the Chicago Bulls had to miss the play-offs and Walter HERRMANN did not see much minutes during the first few months in Detroit.

I guess it all comes down to the Tall Abiceleste performance in Beijing 2008. Of course it was a tough proposition from the beginning in retaining the gold medal. In the end, the bronze medal finishing was more than just consolation for this team. It was another strong testament from our basketball’s Golden Generation, in what could be the last time the world could ever see them together (check out this wonderful tribute from VJ Rabid).

Field Hockey

After winning the Champions Trophy, there was a strong sentiment that Las Leonas could finally win gold in Beijing. But that wasn’t to be as we were simply humbled in the semi-final against the Netherlands. Nevertheless they still manage to retain the bronze medal.

A sad ending for Luciana AYMAR, with her age catching up this could probably be her last outing in the Olympic. Nevertheless once again the FIH as named her as the Women’s Player of the Year for the record of five times.

As for the men, the year started off with the disappointment of not being able to qualify for the Olympics. But they did repent themselves with a strong showing in the Champions Trophy, finishing third.

Other Sports

There were no surprises from any of the four majors in Golf. The best player for this year was Andres ROMERO. He did manage to win one PGA title and was awarded as the tour’s Rookie of the Year.

Los Pumas finish the year at fourth place in the IRB Ranking as they finished the year with two wins (against Italy and Scotland) in seven test matches. Still unclear which first tier tournament (tri or six nations) they will compete but major plans are underway to form a professional domestic competition.

Not to forget the rest of the medal winners at Beijing. Paula PARETO became the first medal winner when she took bronze in the Judo Extra Lightweight.

Then we had the surprise gold medal from Juan CURUCHET and Walter PEREZ in the Cycling Madison Event. In the case of CURUCHET, it was something extra ordinary as he won his first Olympic medal after participating in six Games (dating back to 1984).

Last but not least was Santiago LANGE and Carlos ESPINOLA who took bronze in the Sailing Tornado Class.

NBA News - Big Performance from Manu & Scola

Against the Memphis Grizzlies, coach Gregg POPOVICH has once again made everyone understand his main intention on starting Manu GINOBILI from the bench. San Antonio Spurs won the game 106-103 in double overtime.

With starting guard Roger MASON not being able to post any points, Manu came off the bench like a fighter jet to help their cause tonight. He posted 20 points, 4 rebounds, 4 assists, 2 steals and 1 block shot.

The Chicago Bulls must start to learn some winning habit away from home court. They must start to dominate in the paint. At least that’s what Andres NOCIONI echoed after their 117-129 loss to the Atlanta Hawks.

“It’s personal, you know?” said Chapu of the Bulls’ defense. “Everybody needs to step up. Everybody needs to take the challenge. It’s energy, attitude and that’s it.”

NOCIONI had 11 points, 2 rebounds, 1 assist and 1 block shot. Personally I would feel dreadful to see the Bulls missing the play-offs for the second straight year.

On the other hand, Luis SCOLA had his eight double-double of the season in the Houston Rockets double overtime 120-115 win over the Utah Jazz. He only manage to post 10 points, a further evidence that his offensive contribution has been a little reduced compare to last season.

But it is due to his defensive contribution of 14 rebounds, allowed other players to provide more sparks in the Rockets offense. In one way or the other, he still very much an important figure for Rick ADELMAN’s side.

Walter HERRMANN had only 3:55 action as he posted just 2 rebounds in the Detroit Pistons 87-76 win over the Milwaukee Bucks.

A Knock Out Goal from Tevez

A huge contrast to what he was last Sunday in Tokyo. Being substitute, Carlos TEVEZ was seen being frustrated for not playing longer and getting himself in the score sheet. But today against Stoke City, Sir Alex FERGUSON decides to name again in the starting line up. It was only fair that TEVEZ had to repay his coach faith by scoring a goal.

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The scenario did not changed that much as again he was missing chances after chances. Suddenly in the 83rd minute, the workaholic TEVEZ struck the winning goal to ensure that the Red Devils kept up the pressure on the Premier League leaders. It was only fitting enough that Carlitos provided the knock out punch against the Potters on Boxing Day.

Mundo's 2008 Football Review - Part 2

Despite the many success we have seen from the Albiceleste at club level, the same cannot be said for our National team. I was confident that 2008 would be fantastic year considering how much of great moments we had in 2007 (apart from the Copa America final).

There were two part when it comes to the national team. One is the Beijing bound Under-23 side and the other is the senior side.

Unlike in 2004, when the senior head coach Marcelo BIELSA led the Olympic side to the Athens Games, the AFA has decided to give a different candidate rather than Coco BASILE. The man which they have chosen to do the all important task in retaining our gold medal was Sergio BATISTA.

Checho as he is known perhaps had the most luxurious group of players at his disposal, mainly from the Under-20 graduate of the class 2005 and 2007. Of course the two most standout character from this group are Lionel MESSI and Kun AGUERO. On top of that, he also named Juan Roman RIQUELME as one of his three over age players.

As far as many is concerned, football in the Olympics is very much a secondary event. But not this time because Brazil wanted to take the gold away from us so much. They wanted to bring their best and they brought RONALDHINO.

With all that in place, it became even more interesting to look forward too when our buddy Seba was there to give us some hands on news. But suddenly the road to Beijing hit a slight bump when Barcelona were refusing to allow MESSI to join the rest of the team. At one point, it did look like Checho was almost going to Bejing MESSI-less.

After all the much hype and dispute surrounding this event, there was nothing much that Barca can do because Lionel wanted to go and Beijing & the World wanted him there. I still remember how frustrating it was for all of us here during those times. But thank God all that was resolve.

For most part of the competition, our young guns didn’t set the tone as much they did in 2004. But all that changed when fate had it that we have to play Brazil in the semi-final. Only this time, it wasn’t to be Lionel’s night. Instead it was Kun AGUERO who stole the show by scoring twice in front of his soon to be father in law.

However in the end, it was meant to be Lionel’s tournament as it was his inspiring move that ensured Argentina won the gold medal against Nigeria in the final. His pass to DI MARIA reminded me when a certain Diego’s pass for Jorge BURRUCHAGA in the 1986 World Cup final. Another testament to prove on why young Lionel is the new MESSI-ah.

His presence there was more than on just on the field. Off the field he uplifted the entire mood of the Games. He made an impact that was never seen from a footballer at the Olympic Games. Even a certain Kobe BRYANT wanted to be seen by everyone next to him.

So what about senior team under Coco BASILE? Was it a year that was meant to be remembered. Not really for most part of it.

Throughout the qualifying round during the year, it was really disappointing as we only manage just one win, 5 draws and one defeat. Among the high point was getting goalless draw against Brazil in their own turf. The lowest had to be getting away with a draw against Ecuador after Rodrigo PALACIO scored a last minute equalizer and losing to Marcelo BIELSA’s Chile.

For us, as Argentina’s supporter, it was something just hard to swallow considering the fact that we had the best group of players in the planet. We argued that it was the coach, the tactics or the selection of players. It seems we had more things to argue about compare to the previous years.

But there was one thing that the majority of us had in common which was time for a change and Coco must go. And all our prayers were answered on the 16th of October when it was announced that he had resign from his post as Argentina’s manager. Now the next argument was who should be his successor? You’ll never had expected the drama that was about to be unfold after this.

First it was announced (unofficially) that Miguel RUSSO will be next man in charge. Everyone started talking about the man and how his team would be. But it wasn’t that long that the tide change quickly that it is going to Carlos BIANCHI. Again, we had the same discussion.

Finally when it was announced the next manager Argentina has already been decided and confirmed, on boy! We were in for a real surprise. For us as Albiceleste, this was more important than even the US Presidential Election.

It became official that on his 48th birthday, that the NEW manager of Argentina is the one and only Diego MARADONA. As always, any news regarding Diego can only the make the world go round.

His appointment did went down to easily with many football fans as he did split the line between his experience being coach and his charisma being a legend. Like always the people who adored him were always right behind me. The rest will never have anything good to say.

Immediately he went about his plan for the national team (though it is still 100% set up). He traveled around to meet the players to discuss about what’s in store for them in his set up. Among which naming his coaching staff and awarding the captain armband to Javier MASCHERANO.

The first assignment in the new Diego Revolution was the friendly match against Scotland in November. And he got off to a winning start with 1-0 win. So far in 2008, it is still unclear about the direction that Diego will take national team. But this is what makes this revolution so interesting because it is something outside the box and very refreshing.


It is also good to know that these days he is making headlines from the right reason (after all he is a proud grandpa!!!). From Glasgow to Calcutta, he is still very much loved by everyone. But we will look forward to 2009 with plenty of anticipation on this revolution. You can bet that Mundo will be there to cover it first.

Mundo's 2008 Football Review - Part 1

A review in football for the year 2008, oh boy! Where do I start from? For sure there are plenty of things to talk about as this was yet again, another rollercoaster year. Not only that, being an Albiceleste supporter, you can runaway from talking about football. It’s just something you’re born into.

Perhaps the big news that got our attention back in January was the appointment Sergio BATISTA as the National Under-23 coach. Without wasting time, he quickly went out to establish in what could be the possible team that will go to Beijing. More on that later.

In Europe however, there were plenty of cheers from the Albiceleste Army as we were conquering from England to Russia. Take a look at this: -

• Spain (La Liga for Gonzalo HIGUAIN, Fernando GAGO, Gabriel HEINZE and Javier SAVIOLA)



• Italy (the third consecutive Scudetto for Javier ZANETTI, Esteban CAMBIASSO, Hernan CRESPO, Julio CRUZ, Walter SAMUEL and Nicolas BURDISSO)



• Germany (both Martin DEMICHELIS and Jose SOSA won the Bundesliga with Bayern Munich)



• Portugal (another title for Porto with Lucho GONZALEZ, Lisandro LOPEZ, Ernesto FARIAS, Mariano GONZALEZ and Mario BOLATTI)
  

Not to forget there was also something to smile in Europe among which was Alejandro DOMNIGUEZ winning the UEFA Cup with Zenit St Petersburg.

By the way, did I forget something? Not at all because the one man that had the most smile in 2008 was non other than Carlos TEVEZ. While with West Ham he already had fantastic year in English football and when he joined Manchester United, he took his game to another level. First he got the Premiership title, shortly later the Champions League and to cap it all off, the FIFA Club World Cup that just concluded recently.

It comes to no surprise that in Mundo and Sam’s HEGS, Carlitos was voted by the readers as the best player of 2007/08. I wouldn’t want to argue on that. Though he may have seen his minutes on the field being reduced on the field, everyone knows that with his courage and heart, it’s only a matter of time before the lion strikes again.

As you can see, I’ve only mentioned on those playing in the first tier of European football league. You may add the rest in our comment box, incase if there is any. I’m sure there is.

I would also like to highlights on the achievement from those playing in the South America and CONCACAF zone. Copa Libertadores winner LDU was deeply inspired by the Albiceleste, both on and off the pitch (Claudio BIELER, Damian MANSO, Norberto ARAUJO and their coach Edgardo BAUZA).

While in North America, Pachuca with the likes of Christian GIMENEZ, Damian ALVAREZ and Bruno MARIONI captured the CONCACAF Champions Cup. In the MLS, Guillermo Barros SCHELOTTO of the Columbus Crew cleaned sweeps everything that available for them to win during the 2008 season.

Despite highlighting so many things, it seems like somebody is missing from the big picture. If you’re thinking of Lionel MESSI, then you’re right. The first half of the year was pretty much injuries ravage time for the Atomic Flea.

But what a way he turns things around in the second half of the year! He first had to overcome the club vs. country saga about his availability to play at the Beijing Olympics. Again, we will get into that later.

However as the new season gone by, MESSI is firing up all cylinders and maybe 2009 could be the year that will see him being crowned as the King of the World. This just goes to show that you can never have a year without talking about him.

These are the many great things that I would to highlight on the achievement from the Albiceleste at club level. In Part 2, we will focus more on the National team as I felt it was important to write a separate article on them. In the meantime, share with us your thought and view on 2008.

And one last thing. On behalf on the deadly duo from Mundo, we would like to take this opportunity to wish all our reader a very Merry Christmas. Do have a great time during this festive moments with your loved ones and take care.

NBA News - Manu Injured?

Not a good way for the San Antonio Spurs to celebrate as they will face the New Orleans Hornets on Thursday night. In their 99-93 win over the Minnesota Timberwolves, Manu GINOBILI limped slightly to the side lines with about four minutes left.

Manu, who missed the first 12 games of the season because of left ankle surgery, returned two minutes later and played until 15 seconds remained in the game. Still, the Spurs are being cautious. Manu grimaced and grabbed his ankle when he lunged to grab at the basketball in the fourth quarter.

“He’s in there talking to the doctors now, just to see what that was,” Spurs coach Gregg POPOVICH said. “I’m hoping, maybe, that it’s scar tissue or something like that, and those things are going to happen while he’s recovering. We’ll find out.”

Manu too did not had a good for himself, posting just 8 points, 1 rebounds, 2 assists and 1 steal. Still no sign of Fabricio OBERTO who is still out injured.

It was a big night for Andres NOCIONI when the Chicago Bulls took on their Eastern Conference rival the Detroit Pistons. However the Bulls still lost the game 98-104.

Chapu was again used as a starter in place of the injured Drew GOODEN did posted 18 points, 8 rebounds and 1 assist. On the opposite end, Walter HERRMANN did had any action tonight.

The Houston Rockets were defeated by the Cleveland Cavaliers 90-99, with Luis SCOLA posting 11 points, 8 rebounds, 3 assists & 1 steal.

More Goals From Sunday's Fixture

Fernando CAVENAGHI winning goal in Bordeaux’s comeback win against Monaco


Matias DELGADO for Besiktas right before he got sent off against their eternal rival Galastasaray


Sebastian LETO and Luciano GALLETTI doing some favour for Olympiakos

TEVEZ - England, Europe & Now The World

He did started the match. He had a triple sight on goal but was denied on all three occasions. But for him personally, it wasn’t the way that he would have wanted to end the night. The sending off Nemanja VIDIC in the 49th minute forced Sir Alex FERGUSON to make a tactical substitution. Carlos TEVEZ had to be replaced by Jonathan EVANS, something he was not happy as he was snatching his track suit top and kicking out in frustration at the dug out. But in the end it was all good for him. Manchester United were crowned as the 2008 Club World Cup winner after defeating LDU Quito 1-0, with a goal from Wayne ROONEY.


It’s another title that will be added into his already impressive CV as far his club football career is concerned. Within a space of a year, he played his part in conquering England, then Europe and now the World. Well done to the little known giants from Ecuador they too had their fair share of success in 2008. As confirmed, this will be the last match in charge for coach Edgardo BAUZA. Good luck El Paton.

An early Christmas Gift for Real from Pipita

Having lost four of their previous five league matches, change of coach and now 12 points adrift in the league, things are not looking that good for the All Whites of Madrid. Against Valencia they had something to cheer, thanks to Gonzalo HIGUAIN.

After a brilliant move from Arjen ROBBEN from which he got pass two defenders before pulling the ball back to HIGUAIN. Pipita sliced a left footed shot past Renan BRITO into the far top corner to score his 11th goal of the season.

They were also cheer to the other side of Madrid as well. A double strike from Maxi RODRIGUEZ and one from Kun AGUERO, helped Atletico defeat Espanyol 3-2.


NBA News - Chapu Back in the Bulls Lineup

With Drew GOODEN missing the game against the Utah Jazz with a sprained ankle, Andres NOCIONI was called upon to start for the Bulls to help strengthened their front line. Not a surprise move considering that Chapu has been improving in the last couple of games.

Well the Bulls won the game 106-98 and for Chapu he was again on the high again helping them to keep up their position in the Eastern Conference. He posted 15 points, 8 rebounds, 3 assists and 2 steals along the process.

The San Antonio Spurs are back to winning mode after suffering back to back defeats they downed the Toronto Raptors 107-97. Not one of his best night but Manu GINOBILI was equally important with his contribution of 13 points, 7 rebounds & 3 assists. Fabricio OBERTO was not in action as he missed another game with a sore left foot.

While the Houston Rockets defeated the Minnesota Timberwolves 109-102, with Luis SCOLA posting just 3 points, 4 rebounds and 2 assists.