Tuesday, September 08, 2009
Mundo Albiceleste Pod - Diego running out of time
The defeat to the old enemy left us on the verge of a major crisis. Mundo Albiceleste's podcast is here to discuss what happened in Rosario as John, Roy and Seba look for explanations and possible ways out of this mess for MARADONA and our national team.
We take a look on the keys that let Brazil walk away from the Gigante de Arroyito with three points in their bags and a ticket to South Africa and we look ahead to see whether Argentina will be able to get something out of their trip to Asunción on Wednesday.
Simply click the audio player above or right-click on the following link and save it as an MP3 file or listen to it in your computer: download.
Enjoy! And don't forget to send us your views to argentina.correspondent@gmail.com or right here in the comments' box. If you want to participate in a future edition of our podcast, make sure to drop us an e-mail too.
Yellow Cards and ROMERO
With the Paraguay game edging closer and closer, here's some random news before the Official Argentina/Paraguay match preview.
Lionel MESSI, Juan Sebastian VERON, Javier MASCHEREANO, Javier ZANETTI, Gabriel HEINZE, Fernando GAGO and Emiliano PAPA are all on yellow cards. One more yellow card means they will be suspended for the Peru game on October 11 in Argentina. Maxi RODRIGUEZ is also on a yellow card but as more and more news comes out, it's clear he will not take part in the match against Paraguay.
It seems pretty much all but certain that Diego MARADONA will give Sergio ROMERO his first International Cap on Wednesday night. For those of you who are not familiar with ROMERO, here's the quick rundown. The former Racing Club and now AZ Alkmaar(the Netherlands) goalkeeper has won 2 titles in junior level. The first one came in 2007 when Argentina won the U-20 World Cup in Canada. The second title came a year later at the 2008 Summer Olympic Games in Beijing where he was the back-up goalkeeper to Oscar USTARI. However during the Quarter Finals against the Netherlands, USTARI suffered an injury and ROMERO came in to replace him. He finished the tournament playing 2 crucial matches, the first one against Brazil in the Semi-Finals and the second against Nigeria in the Final itself. He made crucial saves and at 22 is already an established goalkeeper with AZ Alkmaar.
In the 2008-2009 season, ROMERO played a huge part in AZ Alkmaar's first Dutch League title in over 25 years. During the course of the season, ROMERO had a stretch of 11 consecutive clean sheet matches. He has been called-up several times for Argentina, but if he starts(and all signs point that he will), then this will be his first International Cap.
On a quick personal note, I've loved ROMERO ever since I first saw him at the U-20 World Cup and was happy to see him at the Olympics. Oh and the kid has a knack at saving penalties.
Here's a video of ROMERO in the 2008-2009 Season.
Mundo Albiceleste will keep you updated with team news as the day goes on.
Lionel MESSI, Juan Sebastian VERON, Javier MASCHEREANO, Javier ZANETTI, Gabriel HEINZE, Fernando GAGO and Emiliano PAPA are all on yellow cards. One more yellow card means they will be suspended for the Peru game on October 11 in Argentina. Maxi RODRIGUEZ is also on a yellow card but as more and more news comes out, it's clear he will not take part in the match against Paraguay.
It seems pretty much all but certain that Diego MARADONA will give Sergio ROMERO his first International Cap on Wednesday night. For those of you who are not familiar with ROMERO, here's the quick rundown. The former Racing Club and now AZ Alkmaar(the Netherlands) goalkeeper has won 2 titles in junior level. The first one came in 2007 when Argentina won the U-20 World Cup in Canada. The second title came a year later at the 2008 Summer Olympic Games in Beijing where he was the back-up goalkeeper to Oscar USTARI. However during the Quarter Finals against the Netherlands, USTARI suffered an injury and ROMERO came in to replace him. He finished the tournament playing 2 crucial matches, the first one against Brazil in the Semi-Finals and the second against Nigeria in the Final itself. He made crucial saves and at 22 is already an established goalkeeper with AZ Alkmaar.
In the 2008-2009 season, ROMERO played a huge part in AZ Alkmaar's first Dutch League title in over 25 years. During the course of the season, ROMERO had a stretch of 11 consecutive clean sheet matches. He has been called-up several times for Argentina, but if he starts(and all signs point that he will), then this will be his first International Cap.
On a quick personal note, I've loved ROMERO ever since I first saw him at the U-20 World Cup and was happy to see him at the Olympics. Oh and the kid has a knack at saving penalties.
Here's a video of ROMERO in the 2008-2009 Season.
Mundo Albiceleste will keep you updated with team news as the day goes on.
Monday, September 07, 2009
Doing the math: Argentina would have 60% chance
Not that I consider mathematics and football having a lot in common or that I believe a mathematician could give us an indication of the chances that a team has to qualify for the next World Cup, but I just read on Globo Esporte (a Brazilian sports portal) that Argentina have a 60% chance to make it to South Africa.
A mathematician called Tristao GARCIA said Argentina are still favourites to clinch that fourth spot which guarantees a ticket to the next World Cup.
He added that the magical numbers to qualify would be 28 or 29, but that number could change given the fact that a lot of contenders will face each other and some will drop valuable points along the way.
To sum up what he has stated. Here are the chances for each team to qualify to South Africa.
Brazil are already in.
Chile 99%
Paraguay 99%
Argentina 60%
Colombia 11%
Ecuador 14%
Uruguay 14%
Venezuela 3%
Bolivia and Perú are mathematically out of contention.
To come up with those percentages, he took into consideration the difficulty of the remaining fixtures for each of the teams fighting for fourth and fifth place.
What's interesting to see is that GARCIA says Argentina would see their chances reduced to 48% if they lose in Paraguay, but a win in Asunción would see our chances improve to 90%.
Agree or disagree with him, there's no denying that this match is as crucial as it gets for MARADONA's side.
So get your calculators and do your homework.
A mathematician called Tristao GARCIA said Argentina are still favourites to clinch that fourth spot which guarantees a ticket to the next World Cup.
He added that the magical numbers to qualify would be 28 or 29, but that number could change given the fact that a lot of contenders will face each other and some will drop valuable points along the way.
To sum up what he has stated. Here are the chances for each team to qualify to South Africa.
Brazil are already in.
Chile 99%
Paraguay 99%
Argentina 60%
Colombia 11%
Ecuador 14%
Uruguay 14%
Venezuela 3%
Bolivia and Perú are mathematically out of contention.
To come up with those percentages, he took into consideration the difficulty of the remaining fixtures for each of the teams fighting for fourth and fifth place.
What's interesting to see is that GARCIA says Argentina would see their chances reduced to 48% if they lose in Paraguay, but a win in Asunción would see our chances improve to 90%.
Agree or disagree with him, there's no denying that this match is as crucial as it gets for MARADONA's side.
So get your calculators and do your homework.
News from Monday afternoon training
MARADONA fielded the following starting XI.
I sense a lot of punches on several keyboards around the world as Mundo Albiceleste's readers see this list:
Sergio ROMERO
Javier ZANETTI, Sebastián DOMINGUEZ (OTAMENDI was taken to a clinic and everything indicates he'll be ready to play in Paraguay), Gabriel HEINZE (as a CB) and Emiliano PAPA as LB.
VERON on the right in midfield, the central midfield pairing of MASCHERANO and GAGO and DATOLO on the left.
Up front?
MESSI and AGÜERO.
These 11 players faced another team formed by:
ANDUJAR
COLOCCINI, SCHIAVI, BURDISSO, PAREJA
SALVIO, BOLATTI, BRAÑA, Maxi RODRIGUEZ.
LAVEZZI and PALERMO
Where are Diego MILITO and Lisandro LOPEZ? Who knows!?
Apparently, tomorrow's training just before flying to Paraguay, will give us a clearer indication of what we'll see from the start in Asunción on Wednesday.
As usual, I'll give you the time to comment now and I'll add my views later in the comments' box.
I sense a lot of punches on several keyboards around the world as Mundo Albiceleste's readers see this list:
Sergio ROMERO
Javier ZANETTI, Sebastián DOMINGUEZ (OTAMENDI was taken to a clinic and everything indicates he'll be ready to play in Paraguay), Gabriel HEINZE (as a CB) and Emiliano PAPA as LB.
VERON on the right in midfield, the central midfield pairing of MASCHERANO and GAGO and DATOLO on the left.
Up front?
MESSI and AGÜERO.
These 11 players faced another team formed by:
ANDUJAR
COLOCCINI, SCHIAVI, BURDISSO, PAREJA
SALVIO, BOLATTI, BRAÑA, Maxi RODRIGUEZ.
LAVEZZI and PALERMO
Where are Diego MILITO and Lisandro LOPEZ? Who knows!?
Apparently, tomorrow's training just before flying to Paraguay, will give us a clearer indication of what we'll see from the start in Asunción on Wednesday.
As usual, I'll give you the time to comment now and I'll add my views later in the comments' box.
What changes would you make to face Paraguay?
For starters, TEVEZ is out. He is injured (sprained knee), but even if he wasn't, he would have been dropped by MARADONA.
For much as I love Carlitos, I think this is great news for us. Not only he's been underachieving BIG TIME for Argentina, but he has also relegated players like MILITO and LOPEZ as he has been sharing the striking partnership with MESSI and AGÜERO almost as if it was an exclusivity of them.
What I'm hearing is that MARADONA was upset by the way HEINZE publicly pointed DOMINGUEZ to the area where LUISAO headed in to score the first goal for Brazil. We don't know if that goal was DOMINGUEZ's or HEINZE's goal, but the way the former Manchester United and Real Madrid defender reacted by blaming a team-mate like that, would mean that HEINZE could miss out on the match against Paraguay.
I don't necessarily agree with this. MARADONA still loves HEINZE and I honestly will be very surprised if he is dropped.
The central defending pair will not continue, though OTAMENDI still has credit and will surely be used. Will it be the time for BURDISSO to start? Will Diego use SCHIAVI?
Maxi RODRIGUEZ will surely lose his spot and he finished with a little knock that could be determinant for that to happen. Who's in? GAGO moved to the right? GAGO in the middle with MASCHERANO and VERON moved to the right or given some sort of free-role ahead of MASCHERANO and GAGO?
DATOLO looks certain. So do ANDUJAR, MESSI, MASCHERANO, ZANETTI and VERON.
OTAMENDI could also keep his place.
HEINZE is on thin ice.
TEVEZ is definitely out and DOMINGUEZ and Maxi are almost out too.
New faces vs. Paraguay?
Lisandro and Kun are fighting head to head to replace TEVEZ.
GAGO should get in the middle replacing Maxi.
PAPA could have a chance if HEINZE is dropped.
BURDISSO and SCHIAVI the favourites to partner OTAMENDI as CB.
Considering the squad we have at our disposal right now. What would be your decisions?
NOTE: PLEASE! Don't mention the names of RIQUELME, CAMBIASSO, HIGUAIN, SAMUEL or any of the players that have not been call-up. We get the point. This is a different exercise. One that consists in knowing what would you do RIGHT now if you were given the chance of picking the team from the players you have at your disposal RIGHT NOW.
For much as I love Carlitos, I think this is great news for us. Not only he's been underachieving BIG TIME for Argentina, but he has also relegated players like MILITO and LOPEZ as he has been sharing the striking partnership with MESSI and AGÜERO almost as if it was an exclusivity of them.
What I'm hearing is that MARADONA was upset by the way HEINZE publicly pointed DOMINGUEZ to the area where LUISAO headed in to score the first goal for Brazil. We don't know if that goal was DOMINGUEZ's or HEINZE's goal, but the way the former Manchester United and Real Madrid defender reacted by blaming a team-mate like that, would mean that HEINZE could miss out on the match against Paraguay.
I don't necessarily agree with this. MARADONA still loves HEINZE and I honestly will be very surprised if he is dropped.
The central defending pair will not continue, though OTAMENDI still has credit and will surely be used. Will it be the time for BURDISSO to start? Will Diego use SCHIAVI?
Maxi RODRIGUEZ will surely lose his spot and he finished with a little knock that could be determinant for that to happen. Who's in? GAGO moved to the right? GAGO in the middle with MASCHERANO and VERON moved to the right or given some sort of free-role ahead of MASCHERANO and GAGO?
DATOLO looks certain. So do ANDUJAR, MESSI, MASCHERANO, ZANETTI and VERON.
OTAMENDI could also keep his place.
HEINZE is on thin ice.
TEVEZ is definitely out and DOMINGUEZ and Maxi are almost out too.
New faces vs. Paraguay?
Lisandro and Kun are fighting head to head to replace TEVEZ.
GAGO should get in the middle replacing Maxi.
PAPA could have a chance if HEINZE is dropped.
BURDISSO and SCHIAVI the favourites to partner OTAMENDI as CB.
Considering the squad we have at our disposal right now. What would be your decisions?
NOTE: PLEASE! Don't mention the names of RIQUELME, CAMBIASSO, HIGUAIN, SAMUEL or any of the players that have not been call-up. We get the point. This is a different exercise. One that consists in knowing what would you do RIGHT now if you were given the chance of picking the team from the players you have at your disposal RIGHT NOW.
Sunday, September 06, 2009
Venting and a little more...
I started this article right after the Brazil match, but thought it would be wise to continue and finish it after getting a good nights rest. I've mostly defended MARADONA(aside from him not wanting to call-up CAMBIASSO), but the match against Brazil was a huge blow and a bitter pill to swallow.
I'm not sure where to start off, so I'll just start at the back. MARADONA made a huge gamble when he started DOMINGUEZ and OTAMENDI. Two players who on the International stage have little to no experience. It was either going to turn out great or backfire. Sadly, it backfired. I don't care how much experience someone has at club level, you cannot give someone their INTERNATIONAL debut(Sebastian DOMINGUEZ) in a match with such importance, against Brazil of all teams. In the end, Diego rolled the dice and got snake eyes. I know DOMINGUEZ, PALERMO and SCHAVI we're all emergency call-ups(due to injuries), but we shouldn't even be having these emergency call-ups in the first place. Why call-up someone like PAPA(who in my eyes is just as bad if not worse than HEINZE at the moment... and that's saying something) or someone like COLOCCINI when you can replace those 2 players(who are nothing more than bench players) with quality defenders such as SAMUEL, GONZALO RODRIGUEZ, FAZIO, PAREJA and GARAY who actually have a chance to start with the National Team. I guess what I'm trying to say is why waste 2 useless spots when you can pick from the list I just mentioned? I've defended HEINZE in the past and even said in the podcast that the match against Brazil was going to make or break him. And it broke him. If we do make it to South Africa(which we will), Diego cannot possibly think of going far with a defence like that. Oh and ZANETTI? Still World class for me, no matter what anyone says.
Secondly, I don't understand how someone like Lisandro LOPEZ who has been scoring goals for FUN(with Lyon and also scored against Russia) doesn't even make the bench, let alone not start. I love TEVEZ as much as the next person, but at this point, he should be used as a supersub type of player, if not as a last resort. He tracks back and defends, but at this point that's all he seems to do. A forward's main strength should not be tracking back and defending. It should be scoring goals and causing problems to the opposing teams defence. His shots these days have been towards defenders or off the mark. He doesn't have that killer instinct anymore and there are(or should be) players in front of him in the pecking order. Diego MILITO, Lisandro LOPEZ, Sergio AGUERO and even Mauro ZARATE(Note, I'm talking about goal scoring, which they all seem to be doing perfectly fine at the moment) should all be starting ahead of Carlitos. But it seems that if you're not related to MARADONA or you didn't play for Boca, you're not going to start. In a match against Brazil, playing without a target man is suicidal. They have tall defenders who will physically get you off the ball and win balls in the air. Not only that, but what about our set pieces? Or lack there of. We all know Brazil are deadly on set-pieces. Everytime we had a corner or a free kick, I cringed because I knew the ball would eventually end up in Brazilian hands in just a few seconds. Yet, to put to it as John told me, "It seems as if Diego doesn't care about set-pieces". John, I couldn't of put it better myself.
Onto my next point, MESSI. Poor, poor MESSI. He played out of his skin against Brazil, but sadly most of the other players didn't even show up for the match. I think everyone has mentioned this a million times on Mundo, so I'll make it a million and one, MESSI should not be used as a striker. He's not an out-and-out goal scorer, stop using him like one! MAXI has been beyond horrible lately, slot MESSI in MAXI's postition and play LOPEZ/MILITO/AGUERO(any 2 of those 3) up front. Next-up on the chopping board, VERON. I don't mind having VERON on the team as long as his playing time is limited. He brings experience and composure to the team, which every team needs. But what I want to know is at the World Cup, does Diego really think VERON can go 90 minutes in every match? Because there is absolutely no way, ever. Didn't Diego meet up with AIMAR a while back? Well, maybe it's time to bring Pablito back. If anything, atleast as an alternative for VERON.
The Paraguay game will be key and extremely crucial if we want to qualify for 2010. Anything less than a victory will be a blow to our qualification. I know this article seems negative, but there is light at the end of the tunnel. We still have 3 matches left, 1 of which at home(and by then a new list for the Qualifiers will be released), the teams we needed to lose lost(Uruguay and Ecuador) and we have the best strikers in the World. We just need Diego to start the right players with the right tactics. I don't want Diego to get fired, because firing him now will do more harm then good.
If you would like to take part in our next podcast, just send us an e-mail to argentina.correspondent@gmail.com.
I'm not sure where to start off, so I'll just start at the back. MARADONA made a huge gamble when he started DOMINGUEZ and OTAMENDI. Two players who on the International stage have little to no experience. It was either going to turn out great or backfire. Sadly, it backfired. I don't care how much experience someone has at club level, you cannot give someone their INTERNATIONAL debut(Sebastian DOMINGUEZ) in a match with such importance, against Brazil of all teams. In the end, Diego rolled the dice and got snake eyes. I know DOMINGUEZ, PALERMO and SCHAVI we're all emergency call-ups(due to injuries), but we shouldn't even be having these emergency call-ups in the first place. Why call-up someone like PAPA(who in my eyes is just as bad if not worse than HEINZE at the moment... and that's saying something) or someone like COLOCCINI when you can replace those 2 players(who are nothing more than bench players) with quality defenders such as SAMUEL, GONZALO RODRIGUEZ, FAZIO, PAREJA and GARAY who actually have a chance to start with the National Team. I guess what I'm trying to say is why waste 2 useless spots when you can pick from the list I just mentioned? I've defended HEINZE in the past and even said in the podcast that the match against Brazil was going to make or break him. And it broke him. If we do make it to South Africa(which we will), Diego cannot possibly think of going far with a defence like that. Oh and ZANETTI? Still World class for me, no matter what anyone says.
Secondly, I don't understand how someone like Lisandro LOPEZ who has been scoring goals for FUN(with Lyon and also scored against Russia) doesn't even make the bench, let alone not start. I love TEVEZ as much as the next person, but at this point, he should be used as a supersub type of player, if not as a last resort. He tracks back and defends, but at this point that's all he seems to do. A forward's main strength should not be tracking back and defending. It should be scoring goals and causing problems to the opposing teams defence. His shots these days have been towards defenders or off the mark. He doesn't have that killer instinct anymore and there are(or should be) players in front of him in the pecking order. Diego MILITO, Lisandro LOPEZ, Sergio AGUERO and even Mauro ZARATE(Note, I'm talking about goal scoring, which they all seem to be doing perfectly fine at the moment) should all be starting ahead of Carlitos. But it seems that if you're not related to MARADONA or you didn't play for Boca, you're not going to start. In a match against Brazil, playing without a target man is suicidal. They have tall defenders who will physically get you off the ball and win balls in the air. Not only that, but what about our set pieces? Or lack there of. We all know Brazil are deadly on set-pieces. Everytime we had a corner or a free kick, I cringed because I knew the ball would eventually end up in Brazilian hands in just a few seconds. Yet, to put to it as John told me, "It seems as if Diego doesn't care about set-pieces". John, I couldn't of put it better myself.
Onto my next point, MESSI. Poor, poor MESSI. He played out of his skin against Brazil, but sadly most of the other players didn't even show up for the match. I think everyone has mentioned this a million times on Mundo, so I'll make it a million and one, MESSI should not be used as a striker. He's not an out-and-out goal scorer, stop using him like one! MAXI has been beyond horrible lately, slot MESSI in MAXI's postition and play LOPEZ/MILITO/AGUERO(any 2 of those 3) up front. Next-up on the chopping board, VERON. I don't mind having VERON on the team as long as his playing time is limited. He brings experience and composure to the team, which every team needs. But what I want to know is at the World Cup, does Diego really think VERON can go 90 minutes in every match? Because there is absolutely no way, ever. Didn't Diego meet up with AIMAR a while back? Well, maybe it's time to bring Pablito back. If anything, atleast as an alternative for VERON.
The Paraguay game will be key and extremely crucial if we want to qualify for 2010. Anything less than a victory will be a blow to our qualification. I know this article seems negative, but there is light at the end of the tunnel. We still have 3 matches left, 1 of which at home(and by then a new list for the Qualifiers will be released), the teams we needed to lose lost(Uruguay and Ecuador) and we have the best strikers in the World. We just need Diego to start the right players with the right tactics. I don't want Diego to get fired, because firing him now will do more harm then good.
If you would like to take part in our next podcast, just send us an e-mail to argentina.correspondent@gmail.com.
Saturday, September 05, 2009
ARG 1-3 Brazil: I've seen this movie before
Even being extremely tired after a very long hard day, I'm choosing to write these lines only a couple of hours after Argentina lost to Brazil 3-1 on home soil.
The first thing that comes to my mind is what I've been repeating ad infinitum since I've been running this blog: Argentina play the tactic that fits Brazil's system like a glove.
That's how easily you can analyse the game. In many ways, this was exactly the same thing that happened in the Copa America final in 2007 and in a friendly we lost in London in 2006.
They scored quickly and they controlled the pace and the rhythm of the game, making the most out of our desperation.
I said in the chat room during the game that I wish I could have the opportunity to see Argentina score the first goal in a match against Brazil and since DUNGA took over for them, they have always scored first (except for that 0-0 in Belo Horizonte in this WCQ).
The only time it was different was during the Olympics, but I'm not counting that match because it wasn't the senior national team from both countries.
Roy said it during our podcast: 'I'm concerned about Brazil's set-pieces'.
Three balls flew to our area in the first half = two goals and a last gasp save from ANDÚJAR.
From kick-off until the very last second of the match, Brazil looked extremely comfortable with their game-plan.
Ten men behind the ball, Luis FABIANO probably a little bit more forward and then simply wait for Argentina to explore their limited avenues on very reduced spaces.
Being two goals down, Jesús DATOLO made it two goals in two appearances for Argentina and we all sensed that we could have gained momentum and maybe even cause a surprise and make a comeback.
It wasn't to be. Brazil launched one successful counter-attack in the second half and that was it. Brilliant assist from KAKA, lovely finish from Luis FABIANO and another mountain to climb for Argentina.
I thank goodness that Perú and Colombia won on Saturday, or else we would really be fifth and seriously risking elimination.
Paraguay is up next and they just defeated Bolivia 1-0 at home with a goal from a penalty-kick. They are not in their best form, but they always get the best out of them against us and the Defensores del Chaco is a very tricky venue for us.
I like our chances against Paraguay better than I liked us against Brazil before the game (and if you heard the podcast, you know how I was feeling).
It's all to play for and we still have the advantage for fourth place over Colombia and Ecuador.
Chile came back to draw with Venezuela and that's good news for us because had Venezuela won it, they would also be on 20 points and knocking at our doors too.
We'll discuss those things in a future podcast (you're welcome to take part on it. Send an e-mail to argentina.correspondent@gmail.com). Right now, I'm more interested in hearing what you have to say after another defeat to the old enemy.
Do I want Diego out now? No. I don't. Don't get me wrong. I'm not happy with a lot of things he is doing, but to fire him now would be a complete mess.
I wouldn't curse if he decides to leave, provided all things go bananas against Paraguay on Wednesday, but I'm 100% behind the team and I still think he needs time to work with the team.
Right...I'll write more tomorrow. I'm dead tired right now.
The first thing that comes to my mind is what I've been repeating ad infinitum since I've been running this blog: Argentina play the tactic that fits Brazil's system like a glove.
That's how easily you can analyse the game. In many ways, this was exactly the same thing that happened in the Copa America final in 2007 and in a friendly we lost in London in 2006.
They scored quickly and they controlled the pace and the rhythm of the game, making the most out of our desperation.
I said in the chat room during the game that I wish I could have the opportunity to see Argentina score the first goal in a match against Brazil and since DUNGA took over for them, they have always scored first (except for that 0-0 in Belo Horizonte in this WCQ).
The only time it was different was during the Olympics, but I'm not counting that match because it wasn't the senior national team from both countries.
Roy said it during our podcast: 'I'm concerned about Brazil's set-pieces'.
Three balls flew to our area in the first half = two goals and a last gasp save from ANDÚJAR.
From kick-off until the very last second of the match, Brazil looked extremely comfortable with their game-plan.
Ten men behind the ball, Luis FABIANO probably a little bit more forward and then simply wait for Argentina to explore their limited avenues on very reduced spaces.
Being two goals down, Jesús DATOLO made it two goals in two appearances for Argentina and we all sensed that we could have gained momentum and maybe even cause a surprise and make a comeback.
It wasn't to be. Brazil launched one successful counter-attack in the second half and that was it. Brilliant assist from KAKA, lovely finish from Luis FABIANO and another mountain to climb for Argentina.
I thank goodness that Perú and Colombia won on Saturday, or else we would really be fifth and seriously risking elimination.
Paraguay is up next and they just defeated Bolivia 1-0 at home with a goal from a penalty-kick. They are not in their best form, but they always get the best out of them against us and the Defensores del Chaco is a very tricky venue for us.
I like our chances against Paraguay better than I liked us against Brazil before the game (and if you heard the podcast, you know how I was feeling).
It's all to play for and we still have the advantage for fourth place over Colombia and Ecuador.
Chile came back to draw with Venezuela and that's good news for us because had Venezuela won it, they would also be on 20 points and knocking at our doors too.
We'll discuss those things in a future podcast (you're welcome to take part on it. Send an e-mail to argentina.correspondent@gmail.com). Right now, I'm more interested in hearing what you have to say after another defeat to the old enemy.
Do I want Diego out now? No. I don't. Don't get me wrong. I'm not happy with a lot of things he is doing, but to fire him now would be a complete mess.
I wouldn't curse if he decides to leave, provided all things go bananas against Paraguay on Wednesday, but I'm 100% behind the team and I still think he needs time to work with the team.
Right...I'll write more tomorrow. I'm dead tired right now.
Two great results to start the day!
Perú and Colombia did us a favour and won against Uruguay and Ecuador.
That guarantees that whatever happens tonight against Brazil, Argentina will keep their fourth position and we have the great opportunity to win and separate ourselves 5 points from both, Colombia and Ecuador (two teams that now share that fifth spot which gets you to a playoff with the fourth-placed team from CONCACAF -Mexico at the moment of writing-) and seven points clear from Uruguay with only nine points at stake.
Paraguay are leading Bolivia 1-0 at half-time and they are reaching the 27 points that Brazil have at the moment.
Chile will face Venezuela later and with a win, they will only need one point from the last three matches to book their ticket to South Africa 2010.
Already out of the race for the next World Cup, Perú defeated Uruguay 1-0 with a goal from Hernán RENGIFO as they recorded only their second win in the competition.
Uruguay missed Diego FORLAN and looked average. Now they have a mountain to climb as they sit in seventh place and have to face Colombia (H), Ecuador (A) and Argentina (H) in the next three matches.
Colombia, on the other hand, are the biggest winners of the day so far as they climbed from seventh to fifth with a 2-0 win over Ecuador with both goals coming in the last 10 minutes.
Jackson MARTINEZ (81 minutes) and Teófilo GUTIERREZ (91 minutes) were the unlikely scorers as they win their second match in a row.
All to play for in that race for fifth place and a big monkey off our backs as Ecuador didn't win to surpass us in the standings.
Now it's up to us to make the most out of the other results that went our way.
VAMOS ARGENTINA!
By the way...check this link to see if you manage to watch the match live:
http://www.atdhe.net
That guarantees that whatever happens tonight against Brazil, Argentina will keep their fourth position and we have the great opportunity to win and separate ourselves 5 points from both, Colombia and Ecuador (two teams that now share that fifth spot which gets you to a playoff with the fourth-placed team from CONCACAF -Mexico at the moment of writing-) and seven points clear from Uruguay with only nine points at stake.
Paraguay are leading Bolivia 1-0 at half-time and they are reaching the 27 points that Brazil have at the moment.
Chile will face Venezuela later and with a win, they will only need one point from the last three matches to book their ticket to South Africa 2010.
Already out of the race for the next World Cup, Perú defeated Uruguay 1-0 with a goal from Hernán RENGIFO as they recorded only their second win in the competition.
Uruguay missed Diego FORLAN and looked average. Now they have a mountain to climb as they sit in seventh place and have to face Colombia (H), Ecuador (A) and Argentina (H) in the next three matches.
Colombia, on the other hand, are the biggest winners of the day so far as they climbed from seventh to fifth with a 2-0 win over Ecuador with both goals coming in the last 10 minutes.
Jackson MARTINEZ (81 minutes) and Teófilo GUTIERREZ (91 minutes) were the unlikely scorers as they win their second match in a row.
All to play for in that race for fifth place and a big monkey off our backs as Ecuador didn't win to surpass us in the standings.
Now it's up to us to make the most out of the other results that went our way.
VAMOS ARGENTINA!
By the way...check this link to see if you manage to watch the match live:
http://www.atdhe.net
Friday, September 04, 2009
Argentina vs. Brazil - El Clasico Preview
It's time for El Clasico; Argentina vs. Brazil. You've heard the news, the rumors, but now it's time for the Official Preview!
Only once outside El Monumental
Argentina has only played one World Cup Qualifier outside of the Monumental Stadium in the last 12 years. This came on November 16, 1997(in a France 1998 World Cup Qualifier) against Colombia. The match ended 1-1 at La Bombonera(Boca Juniors' playing ground). That game marked Juan Roman RIQUELME's full International debut for Argentina who at the time was coached by Daniel PASSARELLA.
Rosario not comforting
Argentina has played against Brazil twice in Rosario and has not managed a victory. Not only have they never won, they have never scored in Rosario when playing against Brazil. The first time was at the 1975 Copa America where Brazil defeated Argentina 1-0. The second time was at the 1978 FIFA World Cup, where the match ended in a 0-0 draw.
Argentina overall record against Brazil
Argentina and Brazil have played a total of 93 times(at International Men Senior level). Brazil have 35 wins compared to Argentina's 34 with 24 draws in between. However Argentina has scored more goals with 149, as opposed to Brazil's 145.
Diego MARADONA's goal scoring record against Brazil
MARADONA has scored only 1 goal against Brazil and it came in the Copa de Oro tournament. The match took place on January 4th, 1981 in Montevideo, Uruguay. It was Diego's 11th International goal(aswell as his 24th International cap) and the match ended 1-1.
Diego MARADONA's overall record against Brazil
As a player, Diego represented Argentina 91 times. During those 91 times he played against Brazil 6 times. The first time was at the 1979 Copa America where Argentina lost 2-1 in Rio de Janeiro. The second time was at the Copa de Oro in Montevideo, Uruguay where he scored his only goal(ever) against Brazil in a 1-1 Draw. The third time Diego was not so lucky as it came at the 1982 World Cup, in Barcelona, Spain where Brazil beat Argentina 3-1. The fourth time, once again, Diego was not so lucky. It was at a Copa America(this time the 1989 edition) where Brazil eliminated Argentina 2-0, in Rio de Janeiro. The fifth time however, Diego would get his revenge. At the 1990 World Cup, Argentina eliminated Brazil 1-0 with a goal by Claudio CANIGGIA(and a fantastic assist by MARADONA). The last time was more or less a friendly(A.F.A 100th Anniversary to be precise), in Buenos Aires(on February 18, 1993). The match ended in a 1-1 Draw.
Claudio CANIGGIA's winning goal at the 1990 World Cup in Italy.
Argentina vs. Brazil - World Cup Matches
Argentina played against Brazil a total of 4 times at FIFA World Cups. The first time was at the 1974 edition(in West Germany), where Brazil defeated Argentina 2-1. The second time was in 1978(in Argentina... and in Rosario!), however the match ended 0-0. The third time was at Diego MARADONA's first ever World Cup, where Brazil beat Argentina 3-1. The last time came in Italy 1990, where Argentina were able to defeat Brazil 1-0.
Argentina vs. Brazil - World Cup Qualifiers
In World Cup Qualifiers, Argentina and Brazil have played 5 Matches. Sharing the spoils with the following record...
Argentina: 2 Wins, 1 Draw with 7 goals scored.
Brazil: 2 Wins, 1 Draw with 8 goals scored.
2002 World Cup Qualifier
Sao Paulo, Brazil - Estádio do Morumbi - July 26, 2000.
Brazil won 3-1. ALEX scored once for Brazil, while VAMPETA scored twice. Matias ALMEYDA scored the only goal for Argentina. Javier ZANETTI and Juan VERON are the only survivors from that match that have been called-up to play on Saturday.
2002 World Cup Qualifier
Buenos Aires, Argentina - Estadio Monumental Antonio Vespucio Liberti - September 5, 2001.
Argentina won 2-1. Roberto AYALA scored an own goal, Marcelo GALLARDO scored for Argentina and CRIS(Brazil) scored an own goal. Javier ZANETTI is the only survivor from that match that has been called-up to play on Saturday. Note the date of the match: September 5, 2001.
Marcelo Gallardo's tying goal to make it 1-1.
CRIS' own goal(and game winning goal for Argentina).
2006 World Cup Qualifier
Belo Horizonte, Brazil - Estadio Magalhaes Pinto - June 2, 2004.
Brazil won 3-1. RONALDO scored three times(all 3 were penalties), while Juan Pablo SORIN scored for Argentina. Gabriel HEINZE, Javier MASCHERANO and Javier ZANETTI all played in that game while Carlos TEVEZ and Nicolas BURDISSO were unused substitutes. They have all been called-up to play on Saturday.
2006 World Cup Qualifier
Buenos Aires, Argentina - Estadio Monumental Antonio Vespucio Liberti - June 8, 2005.
Argentina won 3-1. Hernan CRESPO scored twice while Juan Roman RIQUELME scored once. Roberto CARLOS scored Brazil's only goal. Javier MASCHERANO, Gabriel HEINZE and Fabricio COLOCCINI all played in that game. Javier ZANETTI and Carlos TEVEZ were both used substitutes(ZANETTI came in the 71st minute for Luis GONZALEZ while Carlos TEVEZ came in the 82nd minute for Javier SAVIOLA). They have all been called-up to play on Saturday.
Hernan CRESPO's goal to make it 1-0.
Juan Roman RIQUELME's goal to make it 2-0.
Hernan CRESPO's second goal of the game to make it 3-0.
2010 World Cup Qualifier
Belo Horizonte, Brazil - Mineirao - June 18, 2008.
The match ended 0-0. Fabricio COLOCCINI, Nicolas BURDISSO, Fernando GAGO, Gabriel HEINZE, Javier ZANETTI, Javier MASCHERANO and Lionel MESSI all played in the match. Maxi RODRIGUEZ, Sergio AGUERO, Juan Pablo CARRIZO and Sebastian BATTAGLIA were all substitutes(Sergio AGUERO came in the 67th minute for Julio CRUZ). They have all been called-up to play on Saturday.
The Players
Argentina has called-up 37 different players so far in the Qualifiers. Javier ZANETTI and Lionel MESSI have played the most matches with 14 each. However MESSI has played 1251 minutes compared to ZANETTI's 1214 minutes.
Argentina has scored 19 goals(an average of 1.36 goals per game) and conceeded 14 goals(an average of 1.07 goals per game).
6 wins(5 at home, 1 away), 4 Draws(2 at home, 2 away) and 4 Losses(0 at home, 4 away).
Argentina Top Scorers
Sergio AGUERO, Juan Roman RIQUELME and Lionel MESSI lead Argentina in goal scoring with 4 goals each.
10 different goal scorers in 2010 World Cup Qualifiers:
Carlos TEVEZ: 1 Goal
Daniel DIAZ: 1 Goal
Esteban CAMBIASSO: 1 Goal
Gabriel MILITO: 1 Goal
Juan Roman RIQUELME: 4 Goals
Lionel MESSI: 4 Goals
Luis GONZALEZ: 1 Goal
Maxi RODRIGUEZ: 1 Goal
Rodrigo PALACIO: 1 Goal
Sergio AGUERO: 4 Goals
Out of the list of players, only Lionel MESSI and Sergio AGUERO have ever scored against Brazil and both of those goals came at a "junior" level. Lionel MESSI scored against Brazil at the U20 World Cup in The Netherlands. Sergio AGUERO scored 2 goals against Brazil, both of them just over a year ago at the 2008 Olympic Summer Games in Beijing. Argentina won both matches.
Argentina has never lost a game when Sergio AGUERO has scored. He's scored in 7 matches, resulting in 6 wins and 1 draw. The Draw came against Paraguay back in September 2008 in a World Cup Qualifier. However, when Carlos TEVEZ and Lionel MESSI both start a match up front(as the only two strikers for Argentina), the record is less than impressive. With 3 Wins, 6 Losses and 2 Draws.
Startling Line-up
Diego MARADONA has confirmed that the following is the starting line-up that will face Brazil.
ANDUJAR
ZANETTI---DOMINGUEZ---OTAMENDI---HEINZE
MAXI---MASCHERANO---VERON---DATOLO
MESSI---TEVEZ
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