As I write, the match between Liverpool and Toulouse have just started and we've got a couple of Argentine players in action.
Javier MASCHERANO is in the starting lineup for the visitors, that despite having 4 Argies in their squad (Emiliano INSUA, Gabriel PALETTA and Sebastián LETO being the other three), none of them is in the bench.
For the French side, Mauro CETTO will have the difficult task of marking Peter CROUCH and the Ukrainian Andriy VORONIN.
Later Today, the much expected debut of Carlitos TEVEZ playing for Manchester United against Portsmouth.
And Lionel MESSI may see some action against Bayern Munich in a friendly match. The German side might use José SOSA and Martin DEMICHELIS at some stage.
Updating on a situation from earlier this week, Sergio AGÜERO seem to be poised to start for Atletico de Madrid when they face Vojvodina (Serbia) in a UEFA Cup match. Atletico's manager, Javier AGUIRRE, said he will use Kun because his showing a good standard of performances.
Now...I'm able to watch this Liverpool v Toulouse match, but I'll have to leave for work right when FC Barcelona v Bayern Munich kicks-off. And I'll miss Carlitos' debut for Manchester United. But, I might be able to go online and therefore, if you are watching and can keep me posted here, I'll appreciate it!
Wednesday, August 15, 2007
Tuesday, August 14, 2007
NFL Preview : Introducing Martin AUTOMATICA
If there is one state in America that has a sentimental connection with the Albiceleste it has to be the State of Texas, and they do go a long way back.
A friend of ours by the name of Jonathan Cohen, who is a passionate Albiceleste supporter like all of us here, lives there. Mentioned the name Manu GINOBILI and Fabricio OBERTO to anyone who hails from San Antonio, and you will probably see a smile on their face. Now the city of Houston is eagerly anticipating the arrival of another superstar of ours, Luis SCOLA for the new NBA season. Our beloved football team played one match in Dallas, at the Cotton Bowl Arena during our unsung campaign in USA ‘94, which was against Bulgaria. Forget about the result but I’m sure many Texans would have seduced and captivated by the beauty of our team regardless what the result may be.
And now there is another name that is ready to paint it all in blue and white and just whom am I referring to. He goes by the name Martin GRAMATICA, who plays as a place kicker for the one of the most celebrated franchise in National Football League (NFL) history, the Dallas COWBOYS.
A friend of ours by the name of Jonathan Cohen, who is a passionate Albiceleste supporter like all of us here, lives there. Mentioned the name Manu GINOBILI and Fabricio OBERTO to anyone who hails from San Antonio, and you will probably see a smile on their face. Now the city of Houston is eagerly anticipating the arrival of another superstar of ours, Luis SCOLA for the new NBA season. Our beloved football team played one match in Dallas, at the Cotton Bowl Arena during our unsung campaign in USA ‘94, which was against Bulgaria. Forget about the result but I’m sure many Texans would have seduced and captivated by the beauty of our team regardless what the result may be.
And now there is another name that is ready to paint it all in blue and white and just whom am I referring to. He goes by the name Martin GRAMATICA, who plays as a place kicker for the one of the most celebrated franchise in National Football League (NFL) history, the Dallas COWBOYS.
So just who is this Martin GRAMATICA? Some of you may have heard of him and some may not, well then here is brief but quite lengthy information about him.
He was born on the 27th November 1975 in Buenos Aires like most Argentine he grew up playing football (soccer that is in case you’re confuse) before he started playing Gridiron football. It was only when he attended LaBelle High School in Florida that he started playing the game and continue to do so when he went on to attend Kansas State University. During his time there he made a record of notching 54 out of 70 field goal and 187-192 Points After Touchdown (PAT), in which subsequently he earned the nickname “Automatica”.
For the record, the GRAMATICAS are a family made of gridiron place kickers and most certainly Argentina’s ambassador to American football. Brother Bill, once famous for a freak injury he suffered while celebrating after converting a field goal now plays for the Tampa Bay STORM in the Arena Football League (AFL). His other brother Santiago was also once a college place kicker for the South Florida BULLS.
In 1998 he received the Lou Groza Award for being the top kicker in college football. In May 1999, he graduated from college with a Bachelor of Science degree in social science. The very same year, the Tampa Bay BUCCANEERS selected him as their third round NFL draft pick and he on went to play for them for the next five years.
It was during those five years in Tampa Bay that turns out to the most glorious time in Martin’s NFL career. Through his consistency and accuracy in converting field goals, he became one of the most respected place kickers and often regarded as one of the best in the game.
The 2002 season was to be the highlight and the best thus far for Martin when the Bucs made history by winning their first ever Super Bowl at Super Bowl XXXVII, after defeating the Oakland RAIDERS by 48-21 (the Half Time Show included a great performance by Sting with No Doubt backing him on the Police classic “Message In A Bottle”). Martin followed up on that to become the first ever Argentine (so far the only) to lift the Vince Lombardi Trophy. Some of his important contribution in the game was converting a field goal from 31 yard to the tie the score at 3-3 and later on he struck his second field goal from 43 yard to give the Bucs a 6-3 lead. He was also the best performer in field goal made (32 field goals) for that season.
Since then his performance was going downhill and subsequently in 2004 the BUCCANEERS released him. Despite playing briefly with the Indianapolis COLT, Martin’s career was often plagued with injury and in 2005 he was out of action altogether. He did returned in 2006 to play for the New England PATRIOTS as a replacement for Adam VINATIERI but was briefly later replaced by rookie Stephen GOSTKOWSKI. And this point of time, the question on whether Martin will make a return to the NFL was remaining to be seen.
Good news arrived on the 27th November 2006, when Martin was signed by the Dallas COWBOYS after the controversial departure on Mike VANDERJAGT. Six days latter he was the hero after scoring the game winning field goal against the New York GIANTS. Due to his successful comeback, the COWBOYS have recently extended his contract for another two years.
With new NFL season is just around the corner, we’ll take a closer look on Automatica progress, with a hope that he & the COWBOY will go on to become the first franchise in NFL history to win the Super Bowl for a record six times.
Be sure to catch it all on Mundo Albiceleste.
I would also like to this opportunity on behalf of Seba (a former wide receiver, place kicker & defensive end himself for the now defunct Asociacion Argentina de Football Americano team, EL TREN) and myself to welcome all the great people from gridironfans.com to give us their comments and opinions in our blog, as we follow Martin and his fellow COWBOYS throughout the coming season. At the same time I would certainly encourage all our loyal readers here, to check out their forum as well, as it not only covers American football but also all other sports as well. Very interesting site indeed.
VAMOS AUTOMATICA!!!
VAMOS COWBOYS!!!
Monday, August 13, 2007
Carlitos to make his Man Utd debut on Wednesday
With Wayne ROONEY out for two months, and even if Alex FERGUSON wanted him to make his debut in the derby match against Manchester City during the weekend, Carlos TEVEZ will start on Wednesday at Fratton Park against Portsmouth.
From BBC.co.uk:
"Carlos will start on Wednesday against Portsmouth," said Ferguson.
"I would have preferred to wait for the Manchester City - that would have given him a few more days' training."
He added: " "But for the forthcoming few weeks, he will fill the position Wayne would have occupied."
What do you think will be the outcome of the game and most importantly, Carlitos' performance?
From BBC.co.uk:
"Carlos will start on Wednesday against Portsmouth," said Ferguson.
"I would have preferred to wait for the Manchester City - that would have given him a few more days' training."
He added: " "But for the forthcoming few weeks, he will fill the position Wayne would have occupied."
What do you think will be the outcome of the game and most importantly, Carlitos' performance?
Friday, August 10, 2007
TEVEZ and BIELSA in the news
The end of the most boring transfer saga finally came today. Carlos TEVEZ is officially a new Manchester United player. He is clear to make his debut on Sunday against Reading, but there are doubts on whether he is match-fit or not.
So it is the last chance for romance for those who want to join our Premier League fantasy football tournament: http://fantasy.premierleague.com and after you have registered your team, enter the following code so you can join our league: 179672-39315
In other news, Marcelo BIELSA, our manager for the 2002 Korea/Japan World Cup, will make a comeback and will become the manager of the Chilean national team. His contract will run until the end of the 2010 World Cup and his main mission will be to take Chile to the biggest football competition after they last made it in France 1998.
October 13th is already marked in BIELSA's calendar as he will make his official debut against none-other than Argentina!
So it is the last chance for romance for those who want to join our Premier League fantasy football tournament: http://fantasy.premierleague.com and after you have registered your team, enter the following code so you can join our league: 179672-39315
In other news, Marcelo BIELSA, our manager for the 2002 Korea/Japan World Cup, will make a comeback and will become the manager of the Chilean national team. His contract will run until the end of the 2010 World Cup and his main mission will be to take Chile to the biggest football competition after they last made it in France 1998.
October 13th is already marked in BIELSA's calendar as he will make his official debut against none-other than Argentina!
Thursday, August 09, 2007
Countdown to Beijing 2008
One year to go to defend our gold medal from Athens 2004, when a mercurial Carlitos TEVEZ led a team that didn't conceed a single goal, to that unique triumph.
Everyone is prepare to live what promise to be the most exciting, monumental, breath-taking, spectacular Olympic Games of our time.
And I thought we could play a little game between all of us and start thinking of the possible candidates to form our squad of 19 U23 players and 3 over-23 stars.
Of course there is a name that stands out as he is in a league of his own: Lionel MESSI. Not only he will (should) be the main star of our Olympic team, he is also among those U23! No reasons for him to be left out of that squad.
But what about the rest?
Are the recently crowned U20 champions in the drivers' seat? What about those who were too old to go to Canada 2007 but are still elegible to go to Beijing (those aged 21-22)?
And who should be called to provide the experience? Who should, in your opinion, be the over-aged players?
I'll get the ball rolling and I'll pick my team.
For that, I'll go back to what an old man said to me (he was a Racing Club and Argentina player in the 50's and 60's and his name is Pedro DELLACHA)
"Remember this number '1259'".
I asked him, "why is that number so relevant?"
He replied: "It is the back-bone of any team that is bound to succeed. 1 - the goalkeeper; 2 - the first center back; 5 - the central midfielder; 9 - the striker. If your team has a solid back-bone, with a stud in every one of those positions, then it will succeed".
And I think these group of players provides us with a good '1259', even though I have decided not to use all my over-aged players to cover those specific positions, because I think our U23 are strong enough to do so.
Goalkeepers:
Oscar USTARI (aged 21)
Sergio ROMERO (20) -that makes 2 U20 World Champions, USTARI in 2005, ROMERO in 2007-
Fabián ASSMANN (21) - Briefly relegated USTARI to the bench after Oscar came back from injury last season at Independiente. Now he is the first choice goalkeeper in one of the 5 biggest teams in Argentina. And he showed great skills-
Defenders:
CB - Federico FAZIO (20) -U20 World Champion in 2007-
CB - Matias CAHAIS (19) -U20 World Champion in 2007-
CB - Ezequiel GARAY (20) -U20 World Champion in 2005-
CB - Gustavo CABRAL (22) -U20 World Champion in 2005-
RB - Javier ZANETTI (33) -I think it could be a great way to close his international career. After winning silver in Atlanta 96, he could have a great chance to go for gold in Beijing and he could really help the group with his experience-
RB - Gabriel MERCADO (20) -U20 World Champion in 2007-
LB - Emiliano INSUA (18) -U20 World Champion in 2007-
Note: I choose to take 7 defenders, sacrifizing the chance of taking a substitute for each position -there is only one LB in my list-. But if needed, Javier ZANETTI could cover the LB position.
Midfielders:
CMF - Eber BANEGA (19) -U20 World Champion in 2007-
CMF - Claudio YACOB (20) -U20 World Champion in 2007-
RMF - Matías SANCHEZ (20) -U20 World Champion in 2007-
RMF - Lautaro ACOSTA (19) -U20 World Champion in 2007- After all...it was his header against Uruguay in the South American tournament that gave us the ticket to Beijing! SANCHEZ would be a more defensive option on the right, while ACOSTA is better to give a better offensive aspect to our midfield-
LMF - Damián ESCUDERO (20) -U20 World Champion in 2007-
LMF - Pablo PIATTI (18) -U20 World Champion in 2007-
AMF - Juan Roman RIQUELME (29) -If he is playing competitive football and he is motivated enough, then why not? Showing the level of performances and dictating the games as he did in Copa America -and even at some stages in the World Cup-, he is second to none when it comes to natural play-makers-
UTIL - Maximiliano MORALEZ (20) -Provided his performances don't take a huge blow by joining FC Moscow, he could provide the team with a good range of options. He can play the enganche role, can be a winger in midfield and can also join in on the attack-
Forwards:
WG - Lionel MESSI (20)-U20 World Champion in 2005-
ST - Diego MILITO (28)- He completes my over-aged group of players that I have decided to use one in each line. Why Diego MILITO? Yes, we still need to see how he does in this La Liga season and if he is back to his 2006-07 kind of scoring production. But I also think it could be an excellent opportunity to give our potential "Nro 9" of South Africa 2010 a chance to convince the demanding Argentina supporter. Yes, he'll be 31 in 2010, but I still rate him as our best scoring machine after Hernan CRESPO and the Inter striker won't be around in the next World Cup -with 35 years of age-. Mariano PAVONE can become our target man (he's 25) and I'm very curious of watching him play for Real Betis this season. Carlitos already won the Olympic Gold Medal and he doesn't need another chance to win the people's approval. Of course, I want to take the best players we can, and if Carlitos is in a better form than Diego MILITO, I'd take him instead of the Zaragoza striker. A tough "decision" to make one year in advance.
ST - Sergio AGÜERO (19)-U20 World Champion in 2005 and 2007-
FW - Angel DI MARIA (19)-U20 World Champion in 2007- I'm not taking Mauro ZARATE because I don't like a player that is so individualistic (or whatever you call a player that never pass the ball to a team-mate). Plus...he'll disappear in Qatar.
If I have to pick this team again tomorrow, I'll probably make it in a slightly different way and that's the beauty of it! There are a lot of sensational players to pick from!
What do you think about this squad?
Would you rather use other over-aged players?
Let me know what you think, we've got almost a year to agree!
Everyone is prepare to live what promise to be the most exciting, monumental, breath-taking, spectacular Olympic Games of our time.
And I thought we could play a little game between all of us and start thinking of the possible candidates to form our squad of 19 U23 players and 3 over-23 stars.
Of course there is a name that stands out as he is in a league of his own: Lionel MESSI. Not only he will (should) be the main star of our Olympic team, he is also among those U23! No reasons for him to be left out of that squad.
But what about the rest?
Are the recently crowned U20 champions in the drivers' seat? What about those who were too old to go to Canada 2007 but are still elegible to go to Beijing (those aged 21-22)?
And who should be called to provide the experience? Who should, in your opinion, be the over-aged players?
I'll get the ball rolling and I'll pick my team.
For that, I'll go back to what an old man said to me (he was a Racing Club and Argentina player in the 50's and 60's and his name is Pedro DELLACHA)
"Remember this number '1259'".
I asked him, "why is that number so relevant?"
He replied: "It is the back-bone of any team that is bound to succeed. 1 - the goalkeeper; 2 - the first center back; 5 - the central midfielder; 9 - the striker. If your team has a solid back-bone, with a stud in every one of those positions, then it will succeed".
And I think these group of players provides us with a good '1259', even though I have decided not to use all my over-aged players to cover those specific positions, because I think our U23 are strong enough to do so.
Goalkeepers:
Oscar USTARI (aged 21)
Sergio ROMERO (20) -that makes 2 U20 World Champions, USTARI in 2005, ROMERO in 2007-
Fabián ASSMANN (21) - Briefly relegated USTARI to the bench after Oscar came back from injury last season at Independiente. Now he is the first choice goalkeeper in one of the 5 biggest teams in Argentina. And he showed great skills-
Defenders:
CB - Federico FAZIO (20) -U20 World Champion in 2007-
CB - Matias CAHAIS (19) -U20 World Champion in 2007-
CB - Ezequiel GARAY (20) -U20 World Champion in 2005-
CB - Gustavo CABRAL (22) -U20 World Champion in 2005-
RB - Javier ZANETTI (33) -I think it could be a great way to close his international career. After winning silver in Atlanta 96, he could have a great chance to go for gold in Beijing and he could really help the group with his experience-
RB - Gabriel MERCADO (20) -U20 World Champion in 2007-
LB - Emiliano INSUA (18) -U20 World Champion in 2007-
Note: I choose to take 7 defenders, sacrifizing the chance of taking a substitute for each position -there is only one LB in my list-. But if needed, Javier ZANETTI could cover the LB position.
Midfielders:
CMF - Eber BANEGA (19) -U20 World Champion in 2007-
CMF - Claudio YACOB (20) -U20 World Champion in 2007-
RMF - Matías SANCHEZ (20) -U20 World Champion in 2007-
RMF - Lautaro ACOSTA (19) -U20 World Champion in 2007- After all...it was his header against Uruguay in the South American tournament that gave us the ticket to Beijing! SANCHEZ would be a more defensive option on the right, while ACOSTA is better to give a better offensive aspect to our midfield-
LMF - Damián ESCUDERO (20) -U20 World Champion in 2007-
LMF - Pablo PIATTI (18) -U20 World Champion in 2007-
AMF - Juan Roman RIQUELME (29) -If he is playing competitive football and he is motivated enough, then why not? Showing the level of performances and dictating the games as he did in Copa America -and even at some stages in the World Cup-, he is second to none when it comes to natural play-makers-
UTIL - Maximiliano MORALEZ (20) -Provided his performances don't take a huge blow by joining FC Moscow, he could provide the team with a good range of options. He can play the enganche role, can be a winger in midfield and can also join in on the attack-
Forwards:
WG - Lionel MESSI (20)-U20 World Champion in 2005-
ST - Diego MILITO (28)- He completes my over-aged group of players that I have decided to use one in each line. Why Diego MILITO? Yes, we still need to see how he does in this La Liga season and if he is back to his 2006-07 kind of scoring production. But I also think it could be an excellent opportunity to give our potential "Nro 9" of South Africa 2010 a chance to convince the demanding Argentina supporter. Yes, he'll be 31 in 2010, but I still rate him as our best scoring machine after Hernan CRESPO and the Inter striker won't be around in the next World Cup -with 35 years of age-. Mariano PAVONE can become our target man (he's 25) and I'm very curious of watching him play for Real Betis this season. Carlitos already won the Olympic Gold Medal and he doesn't need another chance to win the people's approval. Of course, I want to take the best players we can, and if Carlitos is in a better form than Diego MILITO, I'd take him instead of the Zaragoza striker. A tough "decision" to make one year in advance.
ST - Sergio AGÜERO (19)-U20 World Champion in 2005 and 2007-
FW - Angel DI MARIA (19)-U20 World Champion in 2007- I'm not taking Mauro ZARATE because I don't like a player that is so individualistic (or whatever you call a player that never pass the ball to a team-mate). Plus...he'll disappear in Qatar.
If I have to pick this team again tomorrow, I'll probably make it in a slightly different way and that's the beauty of it! There are a lot of sensational players to pick from!
What do you think about this squad?
Would you rather use other over-aged players?
Let me know what you think, we've got almost a year to agree!
Tuesday, August 07, 2007
The new list is out, and with it, some surprises
Couldn't be online as the list was announced because I was playing football myself! haha! 2 goals and 5 assists, not bad (it was 7-a-side).
But let's talk about the important issue here...
The list of 20 players that will travel to Oslo to face Norway on August 22nd for a friendly match.
First, the list, then my comments:
Goalkeepers:
Juan Pablo CARRIZO, Lazio, Italy
Oscar USTARI, Getafe, Spain
Sergio ROMERO, AZ Alkmaar, Holland
Defenders:
Gabriel MILITO, Barcelona, Spain
Fabricio COLOCCINI, Deportivo La Coruña, Spain
Nicolás BURDISSO, Inter, Italy
Ezequiel GARAY, Racing de Santander, Spain
Daniel DÍAZ, Getafe, Spain
Javier ZANETTI, Inter, Italy
Midfielders:
Luis GONZALEZ, Porto, Portugal
Maxi RODRIGUEZ, Atlético Madrid, Spain
José SOSA, Bayer München, Germany
Javier MASCHERANO, Liverpool, England
Fernando GAGO, Real Madrid, Spain
Cristian LEDESMA, Olympiakos, Greece
Federico INSUA, América, Mexico
Forwards:
Javier SAVIOLA, Real Madrid, Spain
Diego MILITO, Zaragoza, Spain
Lionel MESSI, Barcelona, Spain
Ezequiel LAVEZZI, Napoli, Italy
OK, first thing first, I got the goalkeepers and the forwards completely right! haha!
To be honest, I threw a lot of names to the table and that's why I mentioned those players that are in the list.
But COCO really fooled me with the defenders and midfielders.
Very happy to see SAVIOLA and MAXI back and it is also great to see GARAY, SOSA and LAVEZZI.
I can't believe COLOCCINI is back with the team. It really escapes me. He was slow four, five years ago, imagine now!
But let's talk about the famous players that were ignored...starting from the back.
Pato ABBONDANZIERI: It comes as no surprise. It is time to give our team a fresh option between the posts. Pato won't make it to the next World Cup and we've got three very very valid options in USTARI, CARRIZO and ROMERO. In my opinion, COCO is spot on with his decisions there.
Roberto AYALA: He said "That's it, I won't play international football again". That pretty much gives us no option to discuss the matter any further.
Gabriel HEINZE: I can see some of you are panicking with him being cut by COCO this time. But I believe it is more a matter of the manager being concerned about Gabriel's situation. He doesn't know where will he play club football this season. I don't think it'll be beneficial for both, HEINZE and Argentina, to have him travelling to Oslo. I'm sure he'll return in the future and play in the World Cup Qualifiers. Javier PINOLA, a natural replacement for HEINZE as left back, is injured and that's why he is not on the list. And fan favorite Juan Pablo SORIN, is out of favour with COCO and he didn't show a great form playing for Hamburg last season.
Esteban CAMBIASSO: COCO knows what Cuchu can give him. He'll probably be back in the team in the future. I believe BASILE wants to try someone else in this friendly and see what are his options for the future. We'll discuss the probable lineup and tactics further on.
Pablo AIMAR: No RIQUELME meant that El Payasito had another chance to prove himself as a playmaker for Argentina. But he was ignored and the only natural-born playmaker on this list is former Boca Juniors and Borussia Moenchengladbach, Federico INSUA (now at America of Mexico), who completely fooled me when I considered the possible squad yesterday! I thought only European-based players were being called!
Carlos TEVEZ: I see his case as something similar to HEINZE's. He's just joined Manchester United (he could make his debut in a friendly match on Wednesday! We'll stay tunned). I wouldn't be good for him to interrupt his first month at Old Trafford by going to Oslo for this friendly.
Hernán CRESPO: Hmmm...tricky one. Should this omission mean that he will no longer be considered? Will COCO start looking for a long-term replacement? I've got a lot of questions but very few answers!
NEW (AND NOT SO NEW) FACES
Sergio ROMERO will cap an excellent 2007 after clinching a move to Europe (from Racing Club to AZ Alkmaar) and winning the Youth World Cup in Canada. A breath of fresh air and hope for the future as our goalkeeper position seems to be in good hands (very appropriate!)
Ezequiel GARAY should be one to watch and could be on COCO's plans for the near future and also thinking way ahead. I'm really curious on whether he'll have a chance to start and what he can bring to our defense.
José SOSA is one of those classy, talented, modern midfielders who can do everything. I can barely wait to see him in action this season for Bayern München (I hope he becomes a starter) and I know he can give our midfield a lot of things we need. Don't want to jump the gun here, but I think COCO will use Lucho on the right and Maxi on the left, leaving SOSA sitting on the bench waiting for his moment.
Cristian LEDESMA will clearly be a back up for MASCHERANO and/or GAGO. Gives us depth in that position and a good option if we want to turn our midfield into a more defensive line.
Federico INSUA was already called up by COCO for those friendlies before the Copa America. He didn't show what he really can do and he is good option if we want to have a playmaker. Not playing as good as RIQUELME (different kind of game), but can be just as effective.
Ezequiel LAVEZZI should have no problems in seducing the San Paolo crowd that once had the pleasure to enjoy the best player in the history of football, performing at his best wearing the Napoli number 10 shirt. He's just arrived there and should not be a starter for Argentina in this friendly. But he has the ability to change a game at any stage and could become a great sub.
MY GENERAL THOUGHTS
I doubt we can consider this friendly as a re-foundation of our team as a whole. We can't jump into conclussions and start crucifying the manager because he left this or that player out of the list.
But at the same time, I think this list sends a clear message to some of the players and to the supporters in general.
The time for the new generation is slowly coming. The Old Guard is fading out and, despite there are exceptions like ZANETTI, a lot of key players of the past probably won't return to the Albiceleste (ABBONDANZIERI and AYALA, for example).
And the list is also a vote of confidence to many of the players that went to Venezuela and crashed in the final against Brazil, just after giving us some moments of brilliance and impressive attacking football.
I could very well be the case that we will see a team containing up to 8 starters of Venezuela 2007:
USTARI (new)
BURDISSO (right back), Daniel DIAZ and Gabriel MILITO (center backs) and Javier ZANETTI (left back)
MASCHERANO, Lucho GONZALEZ, Maxi RODRIGUEZ (new), Federico INSUA (new).
Lionel MESSI and Diego MILITO or Javier SAVIOLA (new)
It's very soon to start talking about the possible lineup, but my point is that COCO is not changing the foundations of our whole team, he wants to work with them and keep building for the future.
But let's talk about the important issue here...
The list of 20 players that will travel to Oslo to face Norway on August 22nd for a friendly match.
First, the list, then my comments:
Goalkeepers:
Juan Pablo CARRIZO, Lazio, Italy
Oscar USTARI, Getafe, Spain
Sergio ROMERO, AZ Alkmaar, Holland
Defenders:
Gabriel MILITO, Barcelona, Spain
Fabricio COLOCCINI, Deportivo La Coruña, Spain
Nicolás BURDISSO, Inter, Italy
Ezequiel GARAY, Racing de Santander, Spain
Daniel DÍAZ, Getafe, Spain
Javier ZANETTI, Inter, Italy
Midfielders:
Luis GONZALEZ, Porto, Portugal
Maxi RODRIGUEZ, Atlético Madrid, Spain
José SOSA, Bayer München, Germany
Javier MASCHERANO, Liverpool, England
Fernando GAGO, Real Madrid, Spain
Cristian LEDESMA, Olympiakos, Greece
Federico INSUA, América, Mexico
Forwards:
Javier SAVIOLA, Real Madrid, Spain
Diego MILITO, Zaragoza, Spain
Lionel MESSI, Barcelona, Spain
Ezequiel LAVEZZI, Napoli, Italy
OK, first thing first, I got the goalkeepers and the forwards completely right! haha!
To be honest, I threw a lot of names to the table and that's why I mentioned those players that are in the list.
But COCO really fooled me with the defenders and midfielders.
Very happy to see SAVIOLA and MAXI back and it is also great to see GARAY, SOSA and LAVEZZI.
I can't believe COLOCCINI is back with the team. It really escapes me. He was slow four, five years ago, imagine now!
But let's talk about the famous players that were ignored...starting from the back.
Pato ABBONDANZIERI: It comes as no surprise. It is time to give our team a fresh option between the posts. Pato won't make it to the next World Cup and we've got three very very valid options in USTARI, CARRIZO and ROMERO. In my opinion, COCO is spot on with his decisions there.
Roberto AYALA: He said "That's it, I won't play international football again". That pretty much gives us no option to discuss the matter any further.
Gabriel HEINZE: I can see some of you are panicking with him being cut by COCO this time. But I believe it is more a matter of the manager being concerned about Gabriel's situation. He doesn't know where will he play club football this season. I don't think it'll be beneficial for both, HEINZE and Argentina, to have him travelling to Oslo. I'm sure he'll return in the future and play in the World Cup Qualifiers. Javier PINOLA, a natural replacement for HEINZE as left back, is injured and that's why he is not on the list. And fan favorite Juan Pablo SORIN, is out of favour with COCO and he didn't show a great form playing for Hamburg last season.
Esteban CAMBIASSO: COCO knows what Cuchu can give him. He'll probably be back in the team in the future. I believe BASILE wants to try someone else in this friendly and see what are his options for the future. We'll discuss the probable lineup and tactics further on.
Pablo AIMAR: No RIQUELME meant that El Payasito had another chance to prove himself as a playmaker for Argentina. But he was ignored and the only natural-born playmaker on this list is former Boca Juniors and Borussia Moenchengladbach, Federico INSUA (now at America of Mexico), who completely fooled me when I considered the possible squad yesterday! I thought only European-based players were being called!
Carlos TEVEZ: I see his case as something similar to HEINZE's. He's just joined Manchester United (he could make his debut in a friendly match on Wednesday! We'll stay tunned). I wouldn't be good for him to interrupt his first month at Old Trafford by going to Oslo for this friendly.
Hernán CRESPO: Hmmm...tricky one. Should this omission mean that he will no longer be considered? Will COCO start looking for a long-term replacement? I've got a lot of questions but very few answers!
NEW (AND NOT SO NEW) FACES
Sergio ROMERO will cap an excellent 2007 after clinching a move to Europe (from Racing Club to AZ Alkmaar) and winning the Youth World Cup in Canada. A breath of fresh air and hope for the future as our goalkeeper position seems to be in good hands (very appropriate!)
Ezequiel GARAY should be one to watch and could be on COCO's plans for the near future and also thinking way ahead. I'm really curious on whether he'll have a chance to start and what he can bring to our defense.
José SOSA is one of those classy, talented, modern midfielders who can do everything. I can barely wait to see him in action this season for Bayern München (I hope he becomes a starter) and I know he can give our midfield a lot of things we need. Don't want to jump the gun here, but I think COCO will use Lucho on the right and Maxi on the left, leaving SOSA sitting on the bench waiting for his moment.
Cristian LEDESMA will clearly be a back up for MASCHERANO and/or GAGO. Gives us depth in that position and a good option if we want to turn our midfield into a more defensive line.
Federico INSUA was already called up by COCO for those friendlies before the Copa America. He didn't show what he really can do and he is good option if we want to have a playmaker. Not playing as good as RIQUELME (different kind of game), but can be just as effective.
Ezequiel LAVEZZI should have no problems in seducing the San Paolo crowd that once had the pleasure to enjoy the best player in the history of football, performing at his best wearing the Napoli number 10 shirt. He's just arrived there and should not be a starter for Argentina in this friendly. But he has the ability to change a game at any stage and could become a great sub.
MY GENERAL THOUGHTS
I doubt we can consider this friendly as a re-foundation of our team as a whole. We can't jump into conclussions and start crucifying the manager because he left this or that player out of the list.
But at the same time, I think this list sends a clear message to some of the players and to the supporters in general.
The time for the new generation is slowly coming. The Old Guard is fading out and, despite there are exceptions like ZANETTI, a lot of key players of the past probably won't return to the Albiceleste (ABBONDANZIERI and AYALA, for example).
And the list is also a vote of confidence to many of the players that went to Venezuela and crashed in the final against Brazil, just after giving us some moments of brilliance and impressive attacking football.
I could very well be the case that we will see a team containing up to 8 starters of Venezuela 2007:
USTARI (new)
BURDISSO (right back), Daniel DIAZ and Gabriel MILITO (center backs) and Javier ZANETTI (left back)
MASCHERANO, Lucho GONZALEZ, Maxi RODRIGUEZ (new), Federico INSUA (new).
Lionel MESSI and Diego MILITO or Javier SAVIOLA (new)
It's very soon to start talking about the possible lineup, but my point is that COCO is not changing the foundations of our whole team, he wants to work with them and keep building for the future.
Monday, August 06, 2007
COCO to give us a hint of the future, tomorrow
Quiet, very quiet here lately. The Apertura (Opening) tournament have started this weekend in Argentina (with a lovely 2-0 win for Racing!) and the main European competitions are about to get underway (with some of them, already started).
The U17 World Cup in Korea will see our boys playing in 12 days, the ladies will play the World Cup in September in China and let's not forget about the FIBA Americas tournament (Argentina will debut against Uruguay in 17 days!) and the Rugby World Cup (v France in the opening match -September 7th-). A really busy end of the year in every front.
But the most urgent thing in terms of news, surprisingly, might come from the most famous Albicelestes, the football team.
Why?
Because tomorrow could be a very important day for a lot of players. Alfio BASILE will announce the players that will go with him to Oslo to face Norway in a friendly match to be played on August 20th.
It is important because the Copa America, supposedly, meant the end of the international career for many of our players. COCO said he will only be able to use those who play in European clubs.
So...with AYALA already announcing he won't play for Argentina anymore and after another disappointment in a big competition, BASILE could introduce some new faces as he looks for the team that will start the World Cup Qualifiers in October.
Before that (September 11th) there will be another friendly match (v Australia in Melbourne). But it is too early to be worried about that.
Let's see...
I suspect that a lot of the names that we saw at the Copa America will be back with COCO in Oslo.
Just as an excercise, this is the list of our squad for the Copa America. I'll write my views and whether I think each player will be called or snubbed by COCO tomorrow:
Goalkeepers:
Roberto ABBONDANZIERI - NO. I think it could be the case of COCO opting to call up a long-term keeper.
Juan Pablo CARRIZO - Now at Lazio, he should be on the list.
Agustín ORIÓN - Still in San Lorenzo. Won't be called because COCO is forced to use European-based players. So USTARI should be on the list (now at Getafe).
Defenders:
Javier ZANETTI - Logic says "don't call him. He won't be around for 2010", but logic also says: "He is our best option at right back and he is still fit". Whatever happens, I'll understand COCO. Plus...this list doesn't mean these players are going to South Africa 2010. Does it?
Roberto AYALA - He announced he won't play for Argentina anymore. End of story.
Gabriel HEINZE - Having troubles to move to Liverpool. But he should be called. Maybe to play as a central defender -his natural position- and cover for AYALA.
Gabriel MILITO - The new FC Barcelona signing is a no-brainer for COCO. Will be on the list.
Daniel DÍAZ - He has more options now that AYALA won't be around and is elegible because he is a Getafe player now.
Hugo IBARRA - Still at Boca. Won't be on the list.
Nicolás BURDISSO - Very quiet, like George HARRISON, but he is always there and his presence is a key to our defense. Will be on the list.
Midfielders:
Luis GONZÁLEZ - Wanted by Valencia and Real Madrid in Spain. Wanted by Everton in England. COCO is lucky to have Lucho and he'll be on the list, no doubt.
Juan Román RIQUELME - He doesn't know where he will play. If he is still without a club by the time of this friendly, then why not? It'll depend on that.
Javier MASCHERANO - No chance to leave MASCHERADONA out.
Esteban CAMBIASSO - Should also be on the list.
Fernando GAGO - COCO has a soft spot for Pintita, so expect to see the Real Madrid midfielder on the list.
Juan Sebastián VERÓN - Back in Estudiantes (he scored in a 3-0 win over Banfield), he won't be around to face Norway.
Pablo AIMAR - If he is fit, he should be on the list. Especially if Roman doesn't make it.
Forwards:
Lionel MESSI - There are more chances that Argentina will play in red that to see MESSI out of the list.
Hernán CRESPO - What a huge question mark! Will COCO test with another striker? Will he still rely on Hernán? I don't know what to think. It is, somehow, a similar case to ZANETTI. I'll be fine whatever COCO decides.
Diego MILITO - He should be on the list. Whatever the decision on CRESPO is. At least as a back-up. In my opinion, he didn't have too many opportunities yet.
Carlos TEVEZ - We should ask this question to Sir Alex FERGUSON. It should be a FIFA date so the Scottish manager should not have a saying in this one. Carlitos will be on the list.
Rodrigo PALACIO - The Lightning will be terrorising defenders in the Argentine league. So don't expect to see his Jedi hair-cut in Norway.
So?
What about the new faces?
Here are some that I think will be called up and some that stand a chance...
Apart from USTARI (already mentioned when I wrote about the keepers), I'd say:
Goalkeepers:
Sergio ROMERO - Very very young and just arrived in Holland (AZ Alkmaar). But had an impressive Youth World Cup and could be called up as a third keeper to gain a little experience in sharing the dressing room with the big boys. If COCO snubs PATO, then he could call USTARI, CARRIZO and ROMERO.
Defenders:
Javier PINOLA - If COCO tries HEINZE as a central defender, he might use PINOLA as left-back. After all the marriage and last-minute desaffection before Copa America, PINOLA is due to have a chance. I would love to see him called up.
Ezequiel GARAY - I admit I've seen very little from him (couldn't watch a lot of La Liga last season). But the 21-year old seems to be one of the best prospects in a line (defensive) in which we had problems during the Copa America and will have problems in the future if we struggle to find new blood to cover for the old guard.
Federico FAZIO - OK, OK, could be early. But we are testing. This very very tall 19-year old, just crowned as Youth World Cup champion, could benefit a lot from a first glance at being with the big guns. I see him as a central defender with a body made to be able to deal with modern football. It's been a while since we had a central defender like him (in terms of physical presence). Will he become a starter for Sevilla this season?
Midfielders:
Maxi RODRIGUEZ - Enough! We want MAXI back! We want MAXI back! We want MAXI back! A starter any day of the week!
Andrés D'ALESSANDRO - I doubt it very very very much. But depending on the RIQUELME-AIMAR situation and knowing that COCO will use a play-maker, he could have an opening.
Sebastián LETO - I don't know if he'll be a starter at Liverpool. But he scored a goal in a friendly the other day and he's in Europe, he's young, versatile, why not COCO, why not?
Forwards:
Javier SAVIOLA - Now at Real Madrid, and with a shot at being a starter, El Conejito should be back with the Albiceleste. It was a mystery to me to see him out of the Copa squad. Now there are no excuses. He should be in Oslo.
Gonzalo HIGUAIN - In my opinion, he should be behind: CRESPO-MILITO-TEVEZ-SAVIOLA-AGÜERO-PALACIO-LAVEZZI and probably a couple of more players. I wouldn't want to see him called up. He can go and play for France for as much as I'm concerned. But he could be called up by COCO.
Sergio AGÜERO - Shone at the Youth World Cup (top-scorer and golden ball), will be the main striking force at Atletico Madrid this season (with TORRES moving to Anfield). Why not another chance for Kun with the big boys?
Ezequiel LAVEZZI - Tough times. Just arrived in newly-promoted Napoli, but a call-up could be in order as he could become a PALACIO-like option for COCO.
Lisandro LOPEZ - One of my favourites. Was crucial for Porto to win the league in the last two seasons (especially in the last one). He seems to be adapted to the European pace and he has a knack for scoring. He is a long shot, but could be worth it.
So you think I'm way out of the line?
So you think there are a lot of players I'm missing?
I think you can help out and send me your picks and your opinions on those I brought to the table.
The U17 World Cup in Korea will see our boys playing in 12 days, the ladies will play the World Cup in September in China and let's not forget about the FIBA Americas tournament (Argentina will debut against Uruguay in 17 days!) and the Rugby World Cup (v France in the opening match -September 7th-). A really busy end of the year in every front.
But the most urgent thing in terms of news, surprisingly, might come from the most famous Albicelestes, the football team.
Why?
Because tomorrow could be a very important day for a lot of players. Alfio BASILE will announce the players that will go with him to Oslo to face Norway in a friendly match to be played on August 20th.
It is important because the Copa America, supposedly, meant the end of the international career for many of our players. COCO said he will only be able to use those who play in European clubs.
So...with AYALA already announcing he won't play for Argentina anymore and after another disappointment in a big competition, BASILE could introduce some new faces as he looks for the team that will start the World Cup Qualifiers in October.
Before that (September 11th) there will be another friendly match (v Australia in Melbourne). But it is too early to be worried about that.
Let's see...
I suspect that a lot of the names that we saw at the Copa America will be back with COCO in Oslo.
Just as an excercise, this is the list of our squad for the Copa America. I'll write my views and whether I think each player will be called or snubbed by COCO tomorrow:
Goalkeepers:
Roberto ABBONDANZIERI - NO. I think it could be the case of COCO opting to call up a long-term keeper.
Juan Pablo CARRIZO - Now at Lazio, he should be on the list.
Agustín ORIÓN - Still in San Lorenzo. Won't be called because COCO is forced to use European-based players. So USTARI should be on the list (now at Getafe).
Defenders:
Javier ZANETTI - Logic says "don't call him. He won't be around for 2010", but logic also says: "He is our best option at right back and he is still fit". Whatever happens, I'll understand COCO. Plus...this list doesn't mean these players are going to South Africa 2010. Does it?
Roberto AYALA - He announced he won't play for Argentina anymore. End of story.
Gabriel HEINZE - Having troubles to move to Liverpool. But he should be called. Maybe to play as a central defender -his natural position- and cover for AYALA.
Gabriel MILITO - The new FC Barcelona signing is a no-brainer for COCO. Will be on the list.
Daniel DÍAZ - He has more options now that AYALA won't be around and is elegible because he is a Getafe player now.
Hugo IBARRA - Still at Boca. Won't be on the list.
Nicolás BURDISSO - Very quiet, like George HARRISON, but he is always there and his presence is a key to our defense. Will be on the list.
Midfielders:
Luis GONZÁLEZ - Wanted by Valencia and Real Madrid in Spain. Wanted by Everton in England. COCO is lucky to have Lucho and he'll be on the list, no doubt.
Juan Román RIQUELME - He doesn't know where he will play. If he is still without a club by the time of this friendly, then why not? It'll depend on that.
Javier MASCHERANO - No chance to leave MASCHERADONA out.
Esteban CAMBIASSO - Should also be on the list.
Fernando GAGO - COCO has a soft spot for Pintita, so expect to see the Real Madrid midfielder on the list.
Juan Sebastián VERÓN - Back in Estudiantes (he scored in a 3-0 win over Banfield), he won't be around to face Norway.
Pablo AIMAR - If he is fit, he should be on the list. Especially if Roman doesn't make it.
Forwards:
Lionel MESSI - There are more chances that Argentina will play in red that to see MESSI out of the list.
Hernán CRESPO - What a huge question mark! Will COCO test with another striker? Will he still rely on Hernán? I don't know what to think. It is, somehow, a similar case to ZANETTI. I'll be fine whatever COCO decides.
Diego MILITO - He should be on the list. Whatever the decision on CRESPO is. At least as a back-up. In my opinion, he didn't have too many opportunities yet.
Carlos TEVEZ - We should ask this question to Sir Alex FERGUSON. It should be a FIFA date so the Scottish manager should not have a saying in this one. Carlitos will be on the list.
Rodrigo PALACIO - The Lightning will be terrorising defenders in the Argentine league. So don't expect to see his Jedi hair-cut in Norway.
So?
What about the new faces?
Here are some that I think will be called up and some that stand a chance...
Apart from USTARI (already mentioned when I wrote about the keepers), I'd say:
Goalkeepers:
Sergio ROMERO - Very very young and just arrived in Holland (AZ Alkmaar). But had an impressive Youth World Cup and could be called up as a third keeper to gain a little experience in sharing the dressing room with the big boys. If COCO snubs PATO, then he could call USTARI, CARRIZO and ROMERO.
Defenders:
Javier PINOLA - If COCO tries HEINZE as a central defender, he might use PINOLA as left-back. After all the marriage and last-minute desaffection before Copa America, PINOLA is due to have a chance. I would love to see him called up.
Ezequiel GARAY - I admit I've seen very little from him (couldn't watch a lot of La Liga last season). But the 21-year old seems to be one of the best prospects in a line (defensive) in which we had problems during the Copa America and will have problems in the future if we struggle to find new blood to cover for the old guard.
Federico FAZIO - OK, OK, could be early. But we are testing. This very very tall 19-year old, just crowned as Youth World Cup champion, could benefit a lot from a first glance at being with the big guns. I see him as a central defender with a body made to be able to deal with modern football. It's been a while since we had a central defender like him (in terms of physical presence). Will he become a starter for Sevilla this season?
Midfielders:
Maxi RODRIGUEZ - Enough! We want MAXI back! We want MAXI back! We want MAXI back! A starter any day of the week!
Andrés D'ALESSANDRO - I doubt it very very very much. But depending on the RIQUELME-AIMAR situation and knowing that COCO will use a play-maker, he could have an opening.
Sebastián LETO - I don't know if he'll be a starter at Liverpool. But he scored a goal in a friendly the other day and he's in Europe, he's young, versatile, why not COCO, why not?
Forwards:
Javier SAVIOLA - Now at Real Madrid, and with a shot at being a starter, El Conejito should be back with the Albiceleste. It was a mystery to me to see him out of the Copa squad. Now there are no excuses. He should be in Oslo.
Gonzalo HIGUAIN - In my opinion, he should be behind: CRESPO-MILITO-TEVEZ-SAVIOLA-AGÜERO-PALACIO-LAVEZZI and probably a couple of more players. I wouldn't want to see him called up. He can go and play for France for as much as I'm concerned. But he could be called up by COCO.
Sergio AGÜERO - Shone at the Youth World Cup (top-scorer and golden ball), will be the main striking force at Atletico Madrid this season (with TORRES moving to Anfield). Why not another chance for Kun with the big boys?
Ezequiel LAVEZZI - Tough times. Just arrived in newly-promoted Napoli, but a call-up could be in order as he could become a PALACIO-like option for COCO.
Lisandro LOPEZ - One of my favourites. Was crucial for Porto to win the league in the last two seasons (especially in the last one). He seems to be adapted to the European pace and he has a knack for scoring. He is a long shot, but could be worth it.
So you think I'm way out of the line?
So you think there are a lot of players I'm missing?
I think you can help out and send me your picks and your opinions on those I brought to the table.
Friday, August 03, 2007
Do you fantasy football?
Last season, as the English Premier League was starting, I've created a league for us to play this fantastic game that gives a little extra spice to football.
We were only 5 teams back then and three of us are already back for more. But we would love to have a bigger league and increase the competition.
It is absolutely free to play and you only have to go to:
http://fantasy.premierleague.com
Create your team and join our league by entering the following code:
179672-39315
Basically, you score points according to how well the players you've picked perform each week. You've got a limited budget when choosing your squad and points are deducted if you make more than one substitution per week.
Come on and join in!
We were only 5 teams back then and three of us are already back for more. But we would love to have a bigger league and increase the competition.
It is absolutely free to play and you only have to go to:
http://fantasy.premierleague.com
Create your team and join our league by entering the following code:
179672-39315
Basically, you score points according to how well the players you've picked perform each week. You've got a limited budget when choosing your squad and points are deducted if you make more than one substitution per week.
Come on and join in!
Carlitos is officially a Red Devil
Thank you all for your patience during the last few days in which I was unable to post much stuff here.
Nothing better to stop that inactivity than announcing the end of the European summer's football soap opera. After a lot of articles and rumours were written, Carlos TEVEZ will officially play for Manchester United this season.
I don't understand much about how the deal went through and I haven't read a lot about the legal aspects of TEVEZ's move from Upton Park to Old Trafford, but I'm happy to discuss it with you and I think we can share our opinions on the impact Carlitos will have at Manchester United.
Will he be a starter?
Will he struggle to find his best form around stars such as Cristiano RONALDO and Wayne ROONEY?
What shirt number will he use? (if you hear or read something about it, please send us a comment here!)
My first thoughts are that I've been following Carlitos throghout all of his career and I've never seen him lossing a battle when it comes to be a starter or sit in the bench.
Yes, you might say he started on the bench in the last two Copa America he played, but then he became a starter as the competition progressed. Same thing in Germany 2006. At Corinthians and at Upton Park.
It may be the case again this season. He might start from the bench, but I trust him so much that I doubt Sir Alex FERGUSON will resist his work ethic and his sensational skills.
Carlitos will, sooner rather than later, have the Old Trafford crowd in his pockets.
And, even if I'm not a Man Utd fan -I'm not even close to be- I can't wait to see that.
I can't deny it is one of the biggest and most famous clubs in the World and because of this, I'm thrilled that Carlitos will now play for them.
Nothing better to stop that inactivity than announcing the end of the European summer's football soap opera. After a lot of articles and rumours were written, Carlos TEVEZ will officially play for Manchester United this season.
I don't understand much about how the deal went through and I haven't read a lot about the legal aspects of TEVEZ's move from Upton Park to Old Trafford, but I'm happy to discuss it with you and I think we can share our opinions on the impact Carlitos will have at Manchester United.
Will he be a starter?
Will he struggle to find his best form around stars such as Cristiano RONALDO and Wayne ROONEY?
What shirt number will he use? (if you hear or read something about it, please send us a comment here!)
My first thoughts are that I've been following Carlitos throghout all of his career and I've never seen him lossing a battle when it comes to be a starter or sit in the bench.
Yes, you might say he started on the bench in the last two Copa America he played, but then he became a starter as the competition progressed. Same thing in Germany 2006. At Corinthians and at Upton Park.
It may be the case again this season. He might start from the bench, but I trust him so much that I doubt Sir Alex FERGUSON will resist his work ethic and his sensational skills.
Carlitos will, sooner rather than later, have the Old Trafford crowd in his pockets.
And, even if I'm not a Man Utd fan -I'm not even close to be- I can't wait to see that.
I can't deny it is one of the biggest and most famous clubs in the World and because of this, I'm thrilled that Carlitos will now play for them.
Monday, July 30, 2007
Glory Glory Argentina!!!
Tennis - Austrian OpenFifth seeded Juan MONACO rallied from a set down on Sunday to defeat Italy's Potito STARACE, 5-7, 6-3, 6-4, in the $1.087 million Austrian Open final.
The win gave the Argentine his third ATP title this season on clay, having previously won in Buenos Aires and Poertschach, Austria. MONACO now is 28-8 on clay courts this season, second only to Rafael NADAL's 31-1 mark.
MONACO had split his two previous meetings with the 10th-seeded STARACE, including a straight-sets win at Buenos Aires in February.
But it was not as easy this time for MONACO. Despite going down a break early in the first set, STARACE broke back in the seventh game, before breaking decisively in the 11th game take the set, 7-5.
MONACO battled back in the second set and converted on break point in the eighth game for a 5-3 lead. After an ace brought set point, MONACO promptly evened the match at a set apiece.
Both players broke serve early in the third set, before MONACO got the decisive break in the seventh game and closed things out after two hours and 29 minutes to take home the $152,800 first prize.
MONACO is now the sixth Argentine to win the Austrian Open since 1968, and the fourth Argentine winner in the past five years, joining Guillermo CORIA in 2003, Gaston GAUDIO in 2005, and last year's champion Augustin CALLERI.
Golf - Deutsche Bank Players' Championship
Andres ROMERO claimed his maiden victory on the European Tour at the Deutsche Bank Players' Championship at Gut Kaden near Hamburg - one week after his disappointment at the British Open.The Argentinian closed with 19 under, three strokes better than Denmark's Soren HANSEN and England's Oliver WILSON (-16). ROMERO once again showed his swashbuckling style, which in the end cost him dearly at Carnoustie. He started with three birdies in the first four holes to extend his two-shot overnight lead.
But at the ninth ROMERO sent his approach from the rough into the pond to double-bogey. Suddenly his lead reduced to two. But he then enhanced his win by holing a 25ft birdie putt on the last. HANSEN, with a fantastic 64 today was later matched by WILSON's 66.
England's Zane SCOTLAND, who was expected to give ROMERO a test, because he was the only man who had really stayed with him in the third round, faded down the finishing field after he triple-bogeyed at the seventh.
The EUR600,000 first prize saw ROMERO climb up and replace compatriot Angel CABRERA in fifth place on The European Order of Merit.
Well what can I say....
VAMOS ARGENTINA!!!
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