What a difference a week makes in football. Arsenal were riding high
in the league prior to the defeat at Goodison Park. They had gone 14
league games unbeaten since the opening day defeat to Liverpool at the
Emirates. But following in poor second half displays against Everton
and Manchester City they ended up throwing away six points from
winning positions thereby granting the initiative back to their title
rivals as both the leading pack and chasing pack all won their
matches.
Yet it all smacks of familiar failings for Arsenal as the same turn of
events as become all too common. If comments are compared with
previous seasons as regard how the team have fallen away by losing
concentration in key matches, you could find the same thing all over
again.
The argument in the past was that the team needed to spend to match
its rivals or to mount a title challenge. And that was exactly what
Arsene Wenger has done in recent seasons. The signings of Mesut Ozil
and Alexis Sanchez were a signal in the change of direction of the
club in terms of its spending power. Even when nobody was signed last
summer, the club still signed Petr Cech for £10m. Something that would
have been unthinkable when the purse strings were tight.
Coming to this summer there were huge outlay for Granit Xhaka and
Mustafi which totaled up to £65m for both players.
But despite Wenger's declaration at various times this season that his
players are now more matured in terms of their ability to come back
from difficult situations, that assertion as so far proved once again
that it is a false dawn at least for now.
With the way the league is shaping up, with Chelsea setting a high bar
with consecutive wins, Liverpool imposing their game on opponents, and
Manchester City coming back from adverse situations, Arsenal choosed
the wrong time not to pick of any point from six available in the
North West of England inside a week.
The cries of spend the money from many of those of Arsenal persuasion
has dissipated. Why because, money has indeed been spent, but old
weaknesses persist. Despite the spending, Arsene Wenger has remained
the only constant in this never ending circle of mental flakiness that
continually pervades the consciousness of the Arsenal players. They
are not tough enough to stand up to difficult situations in matches.
And Wenger's in game management leaves much to be desired these days.
When the team is under pressure, a modicum tweak or a substitution
could aid in assuaging such a pressure, but the usual 70th minute
substitution has become a theme of Wenger's era. And if not that, a
reactive step not to freshen things up, but to react to his team going
behind, when he could have taken the initiative by carrying out the
substitution much earlier.
For the match at the Etihad on Sunday, Mesut Ozil had no business
playing the full match. The German was poor on the day. If he had been
substituted, he would have had few complains. The game repeatedly
passed him by. A player like Lucas Perez could have given Arsenal
something different on the day.
Arsene Wenger would have to address the midfield conundrum going
forward. The absence of Santi Cazorla has robbed Arsenal's midfield of
its most important player. Besides, his technical ability, his two
footedness is a feature of his game that is underrated. With all of
Granit Xhaka's qualities, that is something that he doesn't have.
This is not to say that he doesn't possess something that can carry
Arsenal forward as he is becoming an integral part of a midfield that
is clearly missing the finesse of Cazorla.
Francis Coquelin's limitation in possession means Arsenal essentially
plays almost with one man down when they are faced with certain
opponents. As was evident against Manchester City, Arsenal regained a
measure of possession when Mo Elneny came in for the injured Oxlade
Chamberlain.
Arsenal the season, lack certain element to their game. They cannot
stay deep to defend when they are under pressure without Per
Mertesacker. There is an obvious lack of compactness to their game in
the absence of the German. Besides, Mustafi's absence was clearly felt
in the two defeats recently as the German's passing ability from the
back is something Gabriel doesn't possess.
For once, Arsene Wenger would have to adopt some measure of pragmatism
going forward if he is to get Arsenal's season back on track. Clean
sheets have become a rarity. And a chance for Rob Holding in place of
Gabriel as the young centre half has fare better alongside Koscielny
this season than the Brazilian.
For all the individual criticism of players, it is Wenger's duty to go
beyond saying that his squad possess the mental toughness to rise from
adversity and for the players to start translating that into
consistent performances.
Tuesday, 20 December 2016
Wednesday, 30 November 2016
Arsenal's Motions In November
For a number of years now, particularly in the Arsene Wenger era, the
month of November has always been a tricky one for Arsenal on the
pitch. For inexplicable reasons the club often suffer from a sudden
loss of form or a number of injuries to players.
Last season, the club's season technically came to an end in November
when both Santi Cazorla and Francis Coquelin succumbed to ligament
injuries against West Brom. Although, the club only lost one match in
December, a 4-0 drubbing at the hands of Southampton, they secured
wins in the other matches played that month. But the soft underbelly
due to a dyfunctional midfield was obvious.
Though, this season has not been different in terms of the form in
November, the only difference is that the team has remain unbeaten
going into the last match for the month which is against Southampton
in the League Cup at the Emirates today.
Arsenal are unbeaten in 19 matches since the opening day defeat to
Liverpool in the premier league. Though they have managed some tricky
fixtures in November, the unbeaten run has continued. Wins against
Ludogoret and Bournemouth in the Champions League and Premier League
has been unsetted by draws against Tottenham, Manchester United and
PSG in the League and Europe respectively.
The usual fluency that was the hallmark of Arsenal's attack in
September and October has been missing throughout November, with the
team having to abandon its free flowing style for more steel.
The failure of the team to adopt a free flowing style in recent weeks
is linked to the injury to Santi Cazorla. The 31 year old ambidextrous
midfielder who has been sidelined since October with an Achilles
problem has been a revelation since he was deployed as a deep lying
playmaker by Arsene Wenger. His two footed-ness allows him to keep and
recycle possession at close quarters and he is responsible for setting
the tempo of Arsenal's build up play after collecting the ball from
the centre halves. Incidentally, his presence always bring out the
best from Mesut Ozil as the German strives in the final third without
having to go searching for the ball in deeper positions whenever the
Spaniard is absent.
Besides the absence of Cazorla, the recent knock suffered by Alexis
Sanchez during the last international break meant he struggled against
Manchester United. But he was back to his best against Bournemouth
when he got a brace taking his tally for the season to ten goals.
The struggles reminiscent of November when it comes to Arsenal has
been reflected by inconsistent form, but not in results. With
different midfield combinations being deployed this month, with
Elneny-Xhaka, Coquelin-Elneny, Xhaka-Ramsey, Elneny-Xhaka as a
partnership either being deployed at the start of a match or during a
tweak as it was against Manchester United when Xhaka-Ramsey finished
that match in the middle.
One thing though, is that the closest midfielder Arsenal have to
Cazorla is Xhaka. The Swiss international brings a similar tempo
setting ability that the Spaniard has, and his ability to pick a pass
from deep prevents the likes of Ozil to fall deep to search for the
ball when there is an absence of a central midfielder who can pick a
pass inbetween the lines.
The 24 year old had one of his best games in an Arsenal shirt against
Tottenham, and his presence seem to bring out the best from Elneny
against Bournemouth last Sunday.
Though, its just 13 games into the Premier League season, the table is
already shaping up to be a four horse race, with a little gap emerging
in the table. But the hectic fixture list in December would determine
the direction the season takes.
With the League Cup, the least of Arsenal's prorities, a number of
players would want to go all the way in the competitons as the likes
of Martinez, Jeff, Rob Holding and a host of youngsters know it is an
opportunity to get more playing time for the club in a tight squad.
So its dateline Southampton as the Emirates on Wednesday with what
should be a completely different team from what obtains in the league.
Likely lineup should be:
Martinez, Jenkinson, Gabriel, Holding Gibbs, Oxlade-Chamberlain,
Ramsey, Xhaka, Jeff, Iwobi, Lucas.
month of November has always been a tricky one for Arsenal on the
pitch. For inexplicable reasons the club often suffer from a sudden
loss of form or a number of injuries to players.
Last season, the club's season technically came to an end in November
when both Santi Cazorla and Francis Coquelin succumbed to ligament
injuries against West Brom. Although, the club only lost one match in
December, a 4-0 drubbing at the hands of Southampton, they secured
wins in the other matches played that month. But the soft underbelly
due to a dyfunctional midfield was obvious.
Though, this season has not been different in terms of the form in
November, the only difference is that the team has remain unbeaten
going into the last match for the month which is against Southampton
in the League Cup at the Emirates today.
Arsenal are unbeaten in 19 matches since the opening day defeat to
Liverpool in the premier league. Though they have managed some tricky
fixtures in November, the unbeaten run has continued. Wins against
Ludogoret and Bournemouth in the Champions League and Premier League
has been unsetted by draws against Tottenham, Manchester United and
PSG in the League and Europe respectively.
The usual fluency that was the hallmark of Arsenal's attack in
September and October has been missing throughout November, with the
team having to abandon its free flowing style for more steel.
The failure of the team to adopt a free flowing style in recent weeks
is linked to the injury to Santi Cazorla. The 31 year old ambidextrous
midfielder who has been sidelined since October with an Achilles
problem has been a revelation since he was deployed as a deep lying
playmaker by Arsene Wenger. His two footed-ness allows him to keep and
recycle possession at close quarters and he is responsible for setting
the tempo of Arsenal's build up play after collecting the ball from
the centre halves. Incidentally, his presence always bring out the
best from Mesut Ozil as the German strives in the final third without
having to go searching for the ball in deeper positions whenever the
Spaniard is absent.
Besides the absence of Cazorla, the recent knock suffered by Alexis
Sanchez during the last international break meant he struggled against
Manchester United. But he was back to his best against Bournemouth
when he got a brace taking his tally for the season to ten goals.
The struggles reminiscent of November when it comes to Arsenal has
been reflected by inconsistent form, but not in results. With
different midfield combinations being deployed this month, with
Elneny-Xhaka, Coquelin-Elneny, Xhaka-Ramsey, Elneny-Xhaka as a
partnership either being deployed at the start of a match or during a
tweak as it was against Manchester United when Xhaka-Ramsey finished
that match in the middle.
One thing though, is that the closest midfielder Arsenal have to
Cazorla is Xhaka. The Swiss international brings a similar tempo
setting ability that the Spaniard has, and his ability to pick a pass
from deep prevents the likes of Ozil to fall deep to search for the
ball when there is an absence of a central midfielder who can pick a
pass inbetween the lines.
The 24 year old had one of his best games in an Arsenal shirt against
Tottenham, and his presence seem to bring out the best from Elneny
against Bournemouth last Sunday.
Though, its just 13 games into the Premier League season, the table is
already shaping up to be a four horse race, with a little gap emerging
in the table. But the hectic fixture list in December would determine
the direction the season takes.
With the League Cup, the least of Arsenal's prorities, a number of
players would want to go all the way in the competitons as the likes
of Martinez, Jeff, Rob Holding and a host of youngsters know it is an
opportunity to get more playing time for the club in a tight squad.
So its dateline Southampton as the Emirates on Wednesday with what
should be a completely different team from what obtains in the league.
Likely lineup should be:
Martinez, Jenkinson, Gabriel, Holding Gibbs, Oxlade-Chamberlain,
Ramsey, Xhaka, Jeff, Iwobi, Lucas.
Saturday, 27 August 2016
Arsene Wenger confirms signing of Shkodran Mustafi and Lucas Perez
Arsenal manager has confirmed the signing of 24 year old German
central defender Shkodran Mustafi and 27 year old Spanish striker,
Lucas Perez. Both players have passed their medicals with paper works
left to be sorted before it would be announced.
Arsene Wenger confirmed the signings during his post match press
conference after Arsenal's 3-1 win over Watford at Vicarage Road in
week three of the new season.
"We have bought two players, Mustafi and Perez. We had to work very
hard to get signings done," he said.
"We have no plans for anyone else now
Both signings are for a combined fee of £52m with Mustafi at £35m and
Lucas Perez at £17m.
The 6ft Shkodran Mustafi arrives from Valencia with a reputation as a
German international with 12 caps, and he was part of the German squad
that won the World Cup in Brazil and played twice at Euro 2016,
scoring Germany's first goal against Ukraine in the group stages and
coming on as a substitute against France in the semis for Jerome
Boateng.
He is not new to the Premier League having spent three years with
Everton without making a senior appearance before leaving for
Sampdoria in Italy.
Lucas Perez has been described as a late blossomer in the mode of
Jamie Vardy, after his standout season last season. Where he scored 17
league goals for Deportivo la Carouna in the Spanish la liga.
The 5ft 11' striker has had something akin to a nomadic career having
had spells playing in Greece and Ukraine.
He is a different kind of striker from Oliver Giroud, though left
footed, he is a pacy forward, who developed from playing more from the
wings before he blossomed as a striker last season.
A tireless player, who delights in putting defenders on the back foot
with his running, which should make him a different foil up front for
Arsene Wenger.
The signing of both players brings to six the number of signings
Arsenal have made this summer. With Granit Xhaka, Takuma Asano, Rob
Holding and Kelechi Nwakali being the others.
Already, Japanese striker Takuna Asano has been sent on a season long
loan to German second divison side Stutggart.
With a squad that is huge on numbers in spite of the long term
injuries to Gabriel, Per Mertesacker and Danny Welbeck as well as the
short term cases of Aaron Ramsey and Alex Iwobi, some players in the
Arsenal squad could be heading out on loan before the transfer window
closes next Wednesday.
Calum Chambers has been linked with a loan move, while it remains to
be seen whether Chuba Akpom will be kept in the squad for the first
half of the season.
central defender Shkodran Mustafi and 27 year old Spanish striker,
Lucas Perez. Both players have passed their medicals with paper works
left to be sorted before it would be announced.
Arsene Wenger confirmed the signings during his post match press
conference after Arsenal's 3-1 win over Watford at Vicarage Road in
week three of the new season.
"We have bought two players, Mustafi and Perez. We had to work very
hard to get signings done," he said.
"We have no plans for anyone else now
Both signings are for a combined fee of £52m with Mustafi at £35m and
Lucas Perez at £17m.
The 6ft Shkodran Mustafi arrives from Valencia with a reputation as a
German international with 12 caps, and he was part of the German squad
that won the World Cup in Brazil and played twice at Euro 2016,
scoring Germany's first goal against Ukraine in the group stages and
coming on as a substitute against France in the semis for Jerome
Boateng.
He is not new to the Premier League having spent three years with
Everton without making a senior appearance before leaving for
Sampdoria in Italy.
Lucas Perez has been described as a late blossomer in the mode of
Jamie Vardy, after his standout season last season. Where he scored 17
league goals for Deportivo la Carouna in the Spanish la liga.
The 5ft 11' striker has had something akin to a nomadic career having
had spells playing in Greece and Ukraine.
He is a different kind of striker from Oliver Giroud, though left
footed, he is a pacy forward, who developed from playing more from the
wings before he blossomed as a striker last season.
A tireless player, who delights in putting defenders on the back foot
with his running, which should make him a different foil up front for
Arsene Wenger.
The signing of both players brings to six the number of signings
Arsenal have made this summer. With Granit Xhaka, Takuma Asano, Rob
Holding and Kelechi Nwakali being the others.
Already, Japanese striker Takuna Asano has been sent on a season long
loan to German second divison side Stutggart.
With a squad that is huge on numbers in spite of the long term
injuries to Gabriel, Per Mertesacker and Danny Welbeck as well as the
short term cases of Aaron Ramsey and Alex Iwobi, some players in the
Arsenal squad could be heading out on loan before the transfer window
closes next Wednesday.
Calum Chambers has been linked with a loan move, while it remains to
be seen whether Chuba Akpom will be kept in the squad for the first
half of the season.
Wednesday, 10 August 2016
Arsene Wenger's Transfer Poker
Once again, Arsenal go into the new season which starts on Saturday
without the necessary signings that would strengthen the team. For a
number of years, Arsenal's goal output has significantly reduced
because of the dearth of quality strikers at the club. It was the
team's lack of scoring that has cost it valuable opportunities to win
the title, but this is not forgetting it defensive frailties that is
well documented.
And going into the new season, the team is more in need of a defensive
signing than the equally important centre forward that it needs. With
Per Mertesacker ruled out until at least the new year with a knee
injury and Gabriel's ankle injury that has ruled him out for up to two
months, Arsenal are left with the inexperienced trio of Calum
Chambers, new signing, Rob Holding and Kristian Bieliek as central
defensive options going into the match against Liverpool on Sunday.
Laurent Koscielny's extended break after his participation at the
Euros means this weekend's match would come too soon for him. The same
applies to Mesut Ozil and Oliver Giroud. All of whom only just resumed
training this Wednesday.
Arsene Wenger can still choose to feature either of Mathieu Debuchy or
Nacho Monreal in central defence, but it could largely be a risk
against a Liverpool side that would be keen to start the new season on
a high under Jurgen Klopp.
For all of Arsenal's dithering in the transfer market, they have
brought in a midfielder in Granit Xhaka way in May, who should add
much needed physicality in central midfield, and his technicality and
passing range means he would add further pose to a midfield that was
devoid of Santi Cazorla's calmness in possession last season.
From the pre-season games and his performance at the Euros, the 23
year old Swiss international has shown that he would be a quality
addition to the Arsenal squad. The presence of Mohammed Elneny, Aaron
Ramsey, Francis Coquelin, Santi Cazorla and Jack Wilshere, if he can
stay fit makes the central midfield Arsenal's strongest position.
However, the same cannot be said of Arsenal's current defensive and
striking options which is in dire need of an upgrade. Before the
defensive injuries in pre season, the team was in need of a central
defender. And the attempt to sign a striker has not been successful
for a number of years with failed bids for the likes of Higuain, Luis
Suarez and the recent bid for Jamie Vardy.
Now, with 21 days to the end of the transfer window, Arsene Wenger
would have to deploy his best poker skills to sign the players his
team needs.
During the course of the summer, he has bemoaned the inflated prices
of the transfer market, but at other times, he has also been quick to
say it is something Arsenal have to accept as the prices are a
reflection of the huge sums avialable to English clubs because of the
new television deal.
In spite of the shortage of signings this season from Arsenal, they
have continually been linked to several players. Mustafi of Valencia,
the 24 year old German international defender has virtually been
linked every week for the last one month with reports claiming that
both clubs are still in talks to bring the former Everton defender to
the Emirates. He has valued at £25m. If Arsene Wenger intends to have
him in place against Liverpool, he must be signed and registered
before 12 GMT on Friday to be eligible to feature against Liverpool.
While the Frenchman has stated on several occasions that he is still
in the transfer market, he has also emphasised the importance of
concentrating on the players already at the club's disposal. A line of
assertion that means there is unlikely to be any new face ahead of the
match against Liverpool.
Arsenal under Arsene Wenger have always deployed an approach of being
reactive in the transfer market rather than being proactive. Little
wonder that Wenger remarked that they are waiting for an opportunity
to arise to sign certain players. Most times, such opportunity never
arises, instead it is left for the club to create such an opportunity
by putting in a bid the club would be unable to turn down. However,
Wenger always has his valuation of players so, it is not unusual that
certain deals over the years has fallen through as a result.
With the increased competition in the English Premier League, the
Frenchman cannot afford to do what he did last season when he made
Arsenal the only club not to sign an outfield player in Europe's top
five leagues. Although, he has already signed three players in Granit
Xhaka, Rob Holding and Takuma Asano this summer, the transfer window
will be considered a failure by Arsenl faithful if he agains fails to
bring in a striker and the defender his team desperately needs.
He has often compared the transfer market to playing a game of poker.
It is now left to him play it the way it would be favourable to his
team's needs.
without the necessary signings that would strengthen the team. For a
number of years, Arsenal's goal output has significantly reduced
because of the dearth of quality strikers at the club. It was the
team's lack of scoring that has cost it valuable opportunities to win
the title, but this is not forgetting it defensive frailties that is
well documented.
And going into the new season, the team is more in need of a defensive
signing than the equally important centre forward that it needs. With
Per Mertesacker ruled out until at least the new year with a knee
injury and Gabriel's ankle injury that has ruled him out for up to two
months, Arsenal are left with the inexperienced trio of Calum
Chambers, new signing, Rob Holding and Kristian Bieliek as central
defensive options going into the match against Liverpool on Sunday.
Laurent Koscielny's extended break after his participation at the
Euros means this weekend's match would come too soon for him. The same
applies to Mesut Ozil and Oliver Giroud. All of whom only just resumed
training this Wednesday.
Arsene Wenger can still choose to feature either of Mathieu Debuchy or
Nacho Monreal in central defence, but it could largely be a risk
against a Liverpool side that would be keen to start the new season on
a high under Jurgen Klopp.
For all of Arsenal's dithering in the transfer market, they have
brought in a midfielder in Granit Xhaka way in May, who should add
much needed physicality in central midfield, and his technicality and
passing range means he would add further pose to a midfield that was
devoid of Santi Cazorla's calmness in possession last season.
From the pre-season games and his performance at the Euros, the 23
year old Swiss international has shown that he would be a quality
addition to the Arsenal squad. The presence of Mohammed Elneny, Aaron
Ramsey, Francis Coquelin, Santi Cazorla and Jack Wilshere, if he can
stay fit makes the central midfield Arsenal's strongest position.
However, the same cannot be said of Arsenal's current defensive and
striking options which is in dire need of an upgrade. Before the
defensive injuries in pre season, the team was in need of a central
defender. And the attempt to sign a striker has not been successful
for a number of years with failed bids for the likes of Higuain, Luis
Suarez and the recent bid for Jamie Vardy.
Now, with 21 days to the end of the transfer window, Arsene Wenger
would have to deploy his best poker skills to sign the players his
team needs.
During the course of the summer, he has bemoaned the inflated prices
of the transfer market, but at other times, he has also been quick to
say it is something Arsenal have to accept as the prices are a
reflection of the huge sums avialable to English clubs because of the
new television deal.
In spite of the shortage of signings this season from Arsenal, they
have continually been linked to several players. Mustafi of Valencia,
the 24 year old German international defender has virtually been
linked every week for the last one month with reports claiming that
both clubs are still in talks to bring the former Everton defender to
the Emirates. He has valued at £25m. If Arsene Wenger intends to have
him in place against Liverpool, he must be signed and registered
before 12 GMT on Friday to be eligible to feature against Liverpool.
While the Frenchman has stated on several occasions that he is still
in the transfer market, he has also emphasised the importance of
concentrating on the players already at the club's disposal. A line of
assertion that means there is unlikely to be any new face ahead of the
match against Liverpool.
Arsenal under Arsene Wenger have always deployed an approach of being
reactive in the transfer market rather than being proactive. Little
wonder that Wenger remarked that they are waiting for an opportunity
to arise to sign certain players. Most times, such opportunity never
arises, instead it is left for the club to create such an opportunity
by putting in a bid the club would be unable to turn down. However,
Wenger always has his valuation of players so, it is not unusual that
certain deals over the years has fallen through as a result.
With the increased competition in the English Premier League, the
Frenchman cannot afford to do what he did last season when he made
Arsenal the only club not to sign an outfield player in Europe's top
five leagues. Although, he has already signed three players in Granit
Xhaka, Rob Holding and Takuma Asano this summer, the transfer window
will be considered a failure by Arsenl faithful if he agains fails to
bring in a striker and the defender his team desperately needs.
He has often compared the transfer market to playing a game of poker.
It is now left to him play it the way it would be favourable to his
team's needs.
What Can New Coach Gernot Rohr Bring To The Super Eagles?
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) appointed 63 year old German,
Gernot Rohr as the new Technical Adviser of the Super Eagles on
Tuesday. The appointment puts to a close the protracted attempt by the
football house to bring in a foreign coach after Paul Le Guen rejected
in the job in July.
Now with an appointment in place, the attention has shifted to the
upcoming World Cup qualifiers which starts in October against the
Chipolopolo of Zambia.
Gernot Rohr is not a stranger to coaching teams in Africa. He has
previously managed Burkina Faso, Niger Republic and Gabon. He was also
one time manager of Tunisian club side Etiole dul Sahel.
As a result, he would not have to adapt to conditions that are
prevalent in Africa in terms of having to deal with the difficult
traveling around the continent and the unforgiving playing surface in
some African countries.
He remarked that he is a German, and he is a winner in his first
comments when his appointment was confirmed. He went further to state
that Nigeria not only has the potential to qualify for the World Cup,
but they can get to the latter stages of the tournament.
Yet, every new person coming into a new job would always be upbeat
about the chances of the team.
At the moment, the Super Eagles are in their lowest ebb with their
failure to qualify for the African Cup of Nations in 2015 and 2017. As
a result, the team has fallen to 71st in the FIFA rankings.
The Super Eagles have never been short of talents, but issues of on
field indiscipline and the inability of past coaches to mould
individual talents into a formidible team.
In terms of emerging talents, that could transform the fortunes of the
Super Eagles, Nigeria have not had it so good for a long time. With
the likes of Alex Iwobi, Kelechi Iheanacho, Leon Balogun, Moses Simon
and even the uncapped Sadiq Umar, who is currently setting the Rio
Olympics football events alight.
In terms of attacking players, there is alot of players coming through
at the moment and others that have been around for a number of years
in Ahmed Musa and Victor Moses.
However defensively and in midfield, the team cannot fully boast of
talents coming through like others in the attacking areas. But such
shortcomings could be mitigated against by using the sum of the teams
part to achieve a greater cohesion defensively.
Though Gernot Rohr has worked in Africa before, he would not have
worked with the kind of quality players that would be at his disposal
when he finally resumes his job fully. The pool of talents available
to him would be bigger than anything or anywhere he has been involved
in in the past.
At his age, experience is not an issue. He would bring his wealth of
experience to the team as a old warhorse. His experience of having
previously worked on the continent would be especially valuable as he
doesn't have to adapt fully to the demands of the job here.
The German would be Nigeria's first foreign coach in six years after
the ill fated spell of Lars Largaback who was in charge for the 2010
World Cup. Previously Clemens Westerhof (1989-1994) and Philippe
Troussier (1997) were the last foreign coaches to qualify the Super
Eagles for the 1994 World Cup in the United States and the 1998 World
Cup in France. Although, Bora Milutinovic was the coach that took
Nigeria to the tournament in France as Troussier was sacked after he
qualified the team for the tournament with a game to spare for the
bizarre reason that those in the football house were not comfortable
with his 3-5-2 system.
It was Amodu Shaibu and Stephen Keshi that qualified the team for the
2002, 2010 and 2014 World Cup respectively.
Gernot Rohr would be attempting to be the third foreign coach to
qualify Nigeria for its sixth World Cup. And this qualification should
be the toughest yet with Algeria, Cameroun and Zambia the opponents
that Nigeria would have to overcome in order to qualify for the World
Cup in Russia in two years time.
Amaju Pinnick has staked his reputation with the appointment of a
foreign coach. He has been vocal about this since Sunday Oliseh
resigned from the position. Now that he has gotten what he wants, its
left for him to create the enabling environment for the German to
perform his duties. Something he failed to do when Stephen Keshi and
Sunday Oliseh were in charge. Still date, they are still being owed
salaries and allowances the NFF never paid.
Gernot Rohr is fully aware of what it takes to work in Africa,
although Nigeria is not Burkina Faso, Gabon or Niger Rep. as the
pressure of these jobs are different.
And the organisation is better in those country than Nigeria. It is
his ability to cope that will determine whether his two year stint
will be a success.
Above, the issue of sentimentalism should be a thing of the past,
invitation should be based purely on merits. Something our local
coaches aren't particularly known for.
Gernot Rohr as the new Technical Adviser of the Super Eagles on
Tuesday. The appointment puts to a close the protracted attempt by the
football house to bring in a foreign coach after Paul Le Guen rejected
in the job in July.
Now with an appointment in place, the attention has shifted to the
upcoming World Cup qualifiers which starts in October against the
Chipolopolo of Zambia.
Gernot Rohr is not a stranger to coaching teams in Africa. He has
previously managed Burkina Faso, Niger Republic and Gabon. He was also
one time manager of Tunisian club side Etiole dul Sahel.
As a result, he would not have to adapt to conditions that are
prevalent in Africa in terms of having to deal with the difficult
traveling around the continent and the unforgiving playing surface in
some African countries.
He remarked that he is a German, and he is a winner in his first
comments when his appointment was confirmed. He went further to state
that Nigeria not only has the potential to qualify for the World Cup,
but they can get to the latter stages of the tournament.
Yet, every new person coming into a new job would always be upbeat
about the chances of the team.
At the moment, the Super Eagles are in their lowest ebb with their
failure to qualify for the African Cup of Nations in 2015 and 2017. As
a result, the team has fallen to 71st in the FIFA rankings.
The Super Eagles have never been short of talents, but issues of on
field indiscipline and the inability of past coaches to mould
individual talents into a formidible team.
In terms of emerging talents, that could transform the fortunes of the
Super Eagles, Nigeria have not had it so good for a long time. With
the likes of Alex Iwobi, Kelechi Iheanacho, Leon Balogun, Moses Simon
and even the uncapped Sadiq Umar, who is currently setting the Rio
Olympics football events alight.
In terms of attacking players, there is alot of players coming through
at the moment and others that have been around for a number of years
in Ahmed Musa and Victor Moses.
However defensively and in midfield, the team cannot fully boast of
talents coming through like others in the attacking areas. But such
shortcomings could be mitigated against by using the sum of the teams
part to achieve a greater cohesion defensively.
Though Gernot Rohr has worked in Africa before, he would not have
worked with the kind of quality players that would be at his disposal
when he finally resumes his job fully. The pool of talents available
to him would be bigger than anything or anywhere he has been involved
in in the past.
At his age, experience is not an issue. He would bring his wealth of
experience to the team as a old warhorse. His experience of having
previously worked on the continent would be especially valuable as he
doesn't have to adapt fully to the demands of the job here.
The German would be Nigeria's first foreign coach in six years after
the ill fated spell of Lars Largaback who was in charge for the 2010
World Cup. Previously Clemens Westerhof (1989-1994) and Philippe
Troussier (1997) were the last foreign coaches to qualify the Super
Eagles for the 1994 World Cup in the United States and the 1998 World
Cup in France. Although, Bora Milutinovic was the coach that took
Nigeria to the tournament in France as Troussier was sacked after he
qualified the team for the tournament with a game to spare for the
bizarre reason that those in the football house were not comfortable
with his 3-5-2 system.
It was Amodu Shaibu and Stephen Keshi that qualified the team for the
2002, 2010 and 2014 World Cup respectively.
Gernot Rohr would be attempting to be the third foreign coach to
qualify Nigeria for its sixth World Cup. And this qualification should
be the toughest yet with Algeria, Cameroun and Zambia the opponents
that Nigeria would have to overcome in order to qualify for the World
Cup in Russia in two years time.
Amaju Pinnick has staked his reputation with the appointment of a
foreign coach. He has been vocal about this since Sunday Oliseh
resigned from the position. Now that he has gotten what he wants, its
left for him to create the enabling environment for the German to
perform his duties. Something he failed to do when Stephen Keshi and
Sunday Oliseh were in charge. Still date, they are still being owed
salaries and allowances the NFF never paid.
Gernot Rohr is fully aware of what it takes to work in Africa,
although Nigeria is not Burkina Faso, Gabon or Niger Rep. as the
pressure of these jobs are different.
And the organisation is better in those country than Nigeria. It is
his ability to cope that will determine whether his two year stint
will be a success.
Above, the issue of sentimentalism should be a thing of the past,
invitation should be based purely on merits. Something our local
coaches aren't particularly known for.
Friday, 5 August 2016
A Tired U23 Dream Team Pulls Off Miracle of Manaus
Score line: Nigeria 5, Japan 4
Team Line up: Emmanuel DANIEL (GK), Seth MUENFUH, Abdullahi SHEHU,
William TROOST-EKONG, Oghenekaro ETEBO,Imoh EZEKIEL, John Obi
MIKEL(C), Sadiq UMAR, Azubuike OKECHUKWU, Stanley AMUZIE, Usman
MUHAMMED
Scorers: S. Umar 6'
E. Oghenekaro 10', 42', 51', 66'
S. Koroki 9'
T. Minamino 11'
T. Asano 70'
M. Suzuki 90'+5
Nigeria's U23 football team pulled off a remarkable win over Japan in
the football event of the Rio Olympics. The result was remarkable
because of the circumstances that surrounded the team's departure from
Atlanta and arrival in Brazil.
After training and camping in Atlanta, United States for over three
weeks ahead of the tournament, the team was scheduled to leave on
Monday, but with less than 24 hours to the match, they were still in
Atlanta without an iota of certainty that they would be at the
tournament. After their initial flight was delayed, a chartered flight
was arranged, but it turned out that the plane was too small to take
all the players and officials.
Eventually it was Delta Airlines that came in at the last minute to
take the team to Manaus with less than 15 hours to the match. The team
boarded their flight at 8am Eastern Time, in the United States. They
arrived Manaus in Amazon, Brazil at about 2:15pm Eastern time, less
than seven hours to the match.
With the terrible travel arrangement that the team had to endure
arriving few hours before the match, after over six hours flight,
having to deal with jetlag and other inconveniences.
So it was no surprise that the U23 team tired visibly towards the end
of the match. S. Umar and Oghenekaro Etebo were inspiring in the
match. The former Warri Wolves O. Etebo was in its usual elements
arriving late from his midfield position to score four goals. With the
fourth goal the pick of the bunch being a 30 yard shot. He picked up
from where he stopped from the U23 African championships in Senegal
where he was the highest goal scorer when them won that tournament.
Roma's S. Umar was a menacing presence up front for Samson Siasia's
team holding up play and getting an assist with the penalty he won for
the Dream Team.
Samson Siasia's teams have always been known for entertaining
football. They would always score goals, but defensively, his teams
are always suspect. But due to the peculiar circumstances which
surrounded the team's travel arrangement, that they can be forgiven
for some of the defensive lapses that plagued the team in the last
quarter of the match as some of it was due to the tam being leggy.
The team was comfortably 5-2 up with 20 minutes left to play, but
conceded two goals to endure what was a nervy finish.
When taken into context, what the team achieved was nothing short of a
miracle. Physically and mentally the players would be drained after
arriving for the match. That they could pick up themselves to play
they way they did against a very energtic Japanese team is a huge
feat.
The Japanese had been in Brazil for a number of weeks, and they were
settled unlike the Nigerians that were in disarray before the match.
Several pundits have asserted that when a Nigerian team is not under
pressure they then to play well, and well beyond expectation. Few
expected them to even win the match due to the untidy nature of their
late arrival in Brazil, but when a draw would have been a bonus, they
got a win which was more than many bargained for.
With the other group match between Colombia and Sweden ending 2-2, the
Dream Team can secure passage to the quarter finals with a win over
Sweden when they play their second group match on Sunday.
Samson Siasia has a remarkable record and success in managing
Nigeria's youth teams. Coming runners-up with the Flying Eagles in the
2005 U20 World Cup, and winning Silver Medal for the Dream Team in the
Beijing 2008 Olympics footbal team. And at both times, his team lost
to Lionel Messi inspired Argentina.
It remains to be seen how the team goes from the high of this
remarkable win over Japan to approach other matches.
Team Line up: Emmanuel DANIEL (GK), Seth MUENFUH, Abdullahi SHEHU,
William TROOST-EKONG, Oghenekaro ETEBO,Imoh EZEKIEL, John Obi
MIKEL(C), Sadiq UMAR, Azubuike OKECHUKWU, Stanley AMUZIE, Usman
MUHAMMED
Scorers: S. Umar 6'
E. Oghenekaro 10', 42', 51', 66'
S. Koroki 9'
T. Minamino 11'
T. Asano 70'
M. Suzuki 90'+5
Nigeria's U23 football team pulled off a remarkable win over Japan in
the football event of the Rio Olympics. The result was remarkable
because of the circumstances that surrounded the team's departure from
Atlanta and arrival in Brazil.
After training and camping in Atlanta, United States for over three
weeks ahead of the tournament, the team was scheduled to leave on
Monday, but with less than 24 hours to the match, they were still in
Atlanta without an iota of certainty that they would be at the
tournament. After their initial flight was delayed, a chartered flight
was arranged, but it turned out that the plane was too small to take
all the players and officials.
Eventually it was Delta Airlines that came in at the last minute to
take the team to Manaus with less than 15 hours to the match. The team
boarded their flight at 8am Eastern Time, in the United States. They
arrived Manaus in Amazon, Brazil at about 2:15pm Eastern time, less
than seven hours to the match.
With the terrible travel arrangement that the team had to endure
arriving few hours before the match, after over six hours flight,
having to deal with jetlag and other inconveniences.
So it was no surprise that the U23 team tired visibly towards the end
of the match. S. Umar and Oghenekaro Etebo were inspiring in the
match. The former Warri Wolves O. Etebo was in its usual elements
arriving late from his midfield position to score four goals. With the
fourth goal the pick of the bunch being a 30 yard shot. He picked up
from where he stopped from the U23 African championships in Senegal
where he was the highest goal scorer when them won that tournament.
Roma's S. Umar was a menacing presence up front for Samson Siasia's
team holding up play and getting an assist with the penalty he won for
the Dream Team.
Samson Siasia's teams have always been known for entertaining
football. They would always score goals, but defensively, his teams
are always suspect. But due to the peculiar circumstances which
surrounded the team's travel arrangement, that they can be forgiven
for some of the defensive lapses that plagued the team in the last
quarter of the match as some of it was due to the tam being leggy.
The team was comfortably 5-2 up with 20 minutes left to play, but
conceded two goals to endure what was a nervy finish.
When taken into context, what the team achieved was nothing short of a
miracle. Physically and mentally the players would be drained after
arriving for the match. That they could pick up themselves to play
they way they did against a very energtic Japanese team is a huge
feat.
The Japanese had been in Brazil for a number of weeks, and they were
settled unlike the Nigerians that were in disarray before the match.
Several pundits have asserted that when a Nigerian team is not under
pressure they then to play well, and well beyond expectation. Few
expected them to even win the match due to the untidy nature of their
late arrival in Brazil, but when a draw would have been a bonus, they
got a win which was more than many bargained for.
With the other group match between Colombia and Sweden ending 2-2, the
Dream Team can secure passage to the quarter finals with a win over
Sweden when they play their second group match on Sunday.
Samson Siasia has a remarkable record and success in managing
Nigeria's youth teams. Coming runners-up with the Flying Eagles in the
2005 U20 World Cup, and winning Silver Medal for the Dream Team in the
Beijing 2008 Olympics footbal team. And at both times, his team lost
to Lionel Messi inspired Argentina.
It remains to be seen how the team goes from the high of this
remarkable win over Japan to approach other matches.
Sunday, 3 July 2016
The Triumph Of The Underdog Is What Makes Football Romantic
Football brings about thrilling moments that lives long in the
subsconcious for years.
Whether its a free kick from metres out that nests in the far corner,
a spinning dribble to create space, a sixty yard pass from deep in
midfield to set up a goal or a tackle to stop an imminent goal scoring
opportunity, football reveals different kinds of moment to different
people.
A goal scored to clinch a title or to win a tournament is always like
a signature in the memory that never fades.
Many fans would always remember Diego Maradona's hand of God goal
against England in the 1986 World Cup quarter final and his
mesmerising run and dribble that took out the entire English midfield
and defence in the same match.
This is how others would also remember Emmanuel Amuneke's goal that
clinched the gold medal in the footbal events of the 1996 Olympics in
Atlanta against Argentina. His brace two years earlier against Zambia
that won Nigeria its second Afcon title in Tunisia 94 remains an
abiding memory.
Sunday Mba's goal against Burkina Faso at 2013 Afcon which gave
Nigeria her third title is even more so, because its happened just
three years ago.
Just as there are abiding memories of joy and esctacy, so also there
are moments of anguish brought about be missing a vital goal scoring
opportunity that would have made a club or country to win a tournament
or advance to the next stage of a competition.
Asamoah Gyan's penalty miss that struck the post in the quarter final
against Uruguay in the 2010 World Cup stands as an memory of
disappointment because if that ball had gone in, Ghana would have made
history as the first African semi finalist in a World Cup. As it was
the Black Stars lost the penalty shoot out that followed.
Few would forget Victor Ikpeba's hands on head after his penalty kick
struck the under side of the bar and crossed the line, but to him it
was a miss, which handed Cameroun the Afcon title in Lagos sixteen
years ago.
There are numerous moments like this that remembers football fans of
what the game is all about. Be it moments that creates joy, or moments
that brings sadness like a Sunday Oliseh crying after the defeat to
Cameroun in the Afcon finals in Lagos in 2000, and a Buffon shedding
tears after Italy lost on penalties to Germany in one of the quarter
finals of Euro 2016.
Yet, all these moments put together whether good or bad doesn't
compare to the triumph of an underdog in football. It is such unlikely
triumphs that makes football what it is. An unpredictability that is
hinged on several factors that makes it romantic. Just like a
beautiful love story that results in a marriage.
Leicester City's run to the Premier League title last season is the
sort of thing that makes football a romantic sport. A triumph that was
never in the dreams of anybody, talk less of it happening in reality.
But it did happen, and it is a sporting triumph that would be told for
generations to come just as the William Shakepeare's Romeo and Juliet.
What made Leicester City's triumph so romantic, was that it didn't
occur by chance, they were simply the best side in the Premier League.
Leaving Leicester City's triumph, the exploits of Iceland and Wales at
the European Championships in France has provided a romantic scene to
a tournament that has been devoid of moments that will live long in
the memory.
Iceland's win over England was reminiscent of Leicester City's triumph
as they were the better side on the day. If a big team beats a smaller
team in a tournament, it doesn't make much of a news as it was
expected, but when a smaller team in every sphere of the word causes
an upset by beating a much more bigger team, the news reverbrates for
ages, and it becomes a tale that is told to generations which makes it
take the form of a romantic story in people's heart.
The Icelandic adventure might end or continue against France on
Sunday, but one thing is clear, the beautiful moments they have
created in football sphere will never be forgotten by the 330,000
Icelandic people. It will ring on for ages, just like the tales of the
Vikings.
The Welsh win over Belgium in the quarter finals created another
romantic sub plot to a tournament that has seen the underdogs come to
the party as the centre of attraction when many bookies and football
fans alike would have flirted with the more bigger teams.
These teams might not go on to win the tournament in France, but
looking at the story from another angle, an average football fan would
always remember what these teams did, because the triumph of the
underdogs certainly makes football romantic just like a love story.
subsconcious for years.
Whether its a free kick from metres out that nests in the far corner,
a spinning dribble to create space, a sixty yard pass from deep in
midfield to set up a goal or a tackle to stop an imminent goal scoring
opportunity, football reveals different kinds of moment to different
people.
A goal scored to clinch a title or to win a tournament is always like
a signature in the memory that never fades.
Many fans would always remember Diego Maradona's hand of God goal
against England in the 1986 World Cup quarter final and his
mesmerising run and dribble that took out the entire English midfield
and defence in the same match.
This is how others would also remember Emmanuel Amuneke's goal that
clinched the gold medal in the footbal events of the 1996 Olympics in
Atlanta against Argentina. His brace two years earlier against Zambia
that won Nigeria its second Afcon title in Tunisia 94 remains an
abiding memory.
Sunday Mba's goal against Burkina Faso at 2013 Afcon which gave
Nigeria her third title is even more so, because its happened just
three years ago.
Just as there are abiding memories of joy and esctacy, so also there
are moments of anguish brought about be missing a vital goal scoring
opportunity that would have made a club or country to win a tournament
or advance to the next stage of a competition.
Asamoah Gyan's penalty miss that struck the post in the quarter final
against Uruguay in the 2010 World Cup stands as an memory of
disappointment because if that ball had gone in, Ghana would have made
history as the first African semi finalist in a World Cup. As it was
the Black Stars lost the penalty shoot out that followed.
Few would forget Victor Ikpeba's hands on head after his penalty kick
struck the under side of the bar and crossed the line, but to him it
was a miss, which handed Cameroun the Afcon title in Lagos sixteen
years ago.
There are numerous moments like this that remembers football fans of
what the game is all about. Be it moments that creates joy, or moments
that brings sadness like a Sunday Oliseh crying after the defeat to
Cameroun in the Afcon finals in Lagos in 2000, and a Buffon shedding
tears after Italy lost on penalties to Germany in one of the quarter
finals of Euro 2016.
Yet, all these moments put together whether good or bad doesn't
compare to the triumph of an underdog in football. It is such unlikely
triumphs that makes football what it is. An unpredictability that is
hinged on several factors that makes it romantic. Just like a
beautiful love story that results in a marriage.
Leicester City's run to the Premier League title last season is the
sort of thing that makes football a romantic sport. A triumph that was
never in the dreams of anybody, talk less of it happening in reality.
But it did happen, and it is a sporting triumph that would be told for
generations to come just as the William Shakepeare's Romeo and Juliet.
What made Leicester City's triumph so romantic, was that it didn't
occur by chance, they were simply the best side in the Premier League.
Leaving Leicester City's triumph, the exploits of Iceland and Wales at
the European Championships in France has provided a romantic scene to
a tournament that has been devoid of moments that will live long in
the memory.
Iceland's win over England was reminiscent of Leicester City's triumph
as they were the better side on the day. If a big team beats a smaller
team in a tournament, it doesn't make much of a news as it was
expected, but when a smaller team in every sphere of the word causes
an upset by beating a much more bigger team, the news reverbrates for
ages, and it becomes a tale that is told to generations which makes it
take the form of a romantic story in people's heart.
The Icelandic adventure might end or continue against France on
Sunday, but one thing is clear, the beautiful moments they have
created in football sphere will never be forgotten by the 330,000
Icelandic people. It will ring on for ages, just like the tales of the
Vikings.
The Welsh win over Belgium in the quarter finals created another
romantic sub plot to a tournament that has seen the underdogs come to
the party as the centre of attraction when many bookies and football
fans alike would have flirted with the more bigger teams.
These teams might not go on to win the tournament in France, but
looking at the story from another angle, an average football fan would
always remember what these teams did, because the triumph of the
underdogs certainly makes football romantic just like a love story.
Arsenal Confirms Signing of Takuma
Arsenal have confirmed the signing of Japanese international striker,
Takuma Asano.
The 21 year old confirmed a couple of weeks ago that he has been
approached by the Premier League club. And his subsequent signing was
in sync with what the player himself had told the press few weeks ago.
Arsene Wenger said of this of new signing:
"Takuma is a talented young striker and very much one for the future.
He has had an impressive start to his career and we look forward to
him developing over the next couple of years."
The younger samurai would be representing Japan in this year's
Olympics in Rio in August. He was voted as the best younger player of
the year in Japan's J-League for his prowess for his club Sanfrecce
Hiroshima.
He is likely to be fan out on loan as its unlikely that he would be
granted a work permit. The last Japanesse player Arsenal signed, Ryo
Miyachi had a couple of loan spells from the club before his contract
expired.
Going by Arsene Wenger's words, he is a player for the future, and
considering how such signings have gone in recent years, those of
Arsenal persuasion might not be enthused by a signing which will not
immediately contribute to the success of the club.
His signing brings to two the number of players that have arrived
Arsenal this summer, the other being Swiss international midfielder
Granit Xhaka who was signed in May.
Takuma Asano.
The 21 year old confirmed a couple of weeks ago that he has been
approached by the Premier League club. And his subsequent signing was
in sync with what the player himself had told the press few weeks ago.
Arsene Wenger said of this of new signing:
"Takuma is a talented young striker and very much one for the future.
He has had an impressive start to his career and we look forward to
him developing over the next couple of years."
The younger samurai would be representing Japan in this year's
Olympics in Rio in August. He was voted as the best younger player of
the year in Japan's J-League for his prowess for his club Sanfrecce
Hiroshima.
He is likely to be fan out on loan as its unlikely that he would be
granted a work permit. The last Japanesse player Arsenal signed, Ryo
Miyachi had a couple of loan spells from the club before his contract
expired.
Going by Arsene Wenger's words, he is a player for the future, and
considering how such signings have gone in recent years, those of
Arsenal persuasion might not be enthused by a signing which will not
immediately contribute to the success of the club.
His signing brings to two the number of players that have arrived
Arsenal this summer, the other being Swiss international midfielder
Granit Xhaka who was signed in May.
Friday, 24 June 2016
Nigeria In Tough Group For 2018 World Cup Qualifiers
The Super Eagles have been grouped alongside former African champions
Algeria, Cameroon and Zambia in qualifiers for the 2018 World Cup in
Russia.
Nigeria, Algeria and Cameroon were all in Brazil for the last World
Cup were both the Super Eagles and Algeria advanced to the second
round two years ago.
With this group, it means, the trio might not make it to the
tournament in Russia, while it is certain that two of the last African
representatives would not make it to Russia.
The Super Eagles will have to sort out their away form if they are to
qualify for their sixth World Cup in Russia. With no substantive coach
in place, the NFF would have to quickly resolve the uncertainty over
that position as well as the venue where Nigeria would play their
matches.
Algeria, who are the highest ranked side in Africa have enjoyed a
steady rise on the continent since they started calling on players on
where born in Europe to Algerian parents following FIFA's rule change.
They will arguably be Nigeria's strongest opponent in the group, and
on current form would pose the greatest obstacle to the Super Eagles
chances of qualifying for Russia.
The indomitable lions, Cameroon is another team with a pedigree that
could hurt Nigeria's chances. They have been to the World Cup a record
seven times. With so much at stake, there will be no margin for error
for the Super Eagles in qualifying.
While Zambia will equally not be pushovers as the 2012 African
champions are a good footballing side on their day, and are strong at
home.
Nigeria will have to negotiate the qualifiers knowing that they have
no margin for errors if they are to be in Russia.
Full group.
Group A
Tunisia, Libya, DR Congo, Guinea
Group B
Nigeria, Cameroon, Zambia, Algeria
Group C
Gabon, Mail, Ivory Coast, Morocco
Group D
Senegal, South Africa, Burkina Faso, Cape Verde
Group E
Ghana, Egypt, Congo, Uganda
The group winners will qualify for the 2018 World Cup in Russia. The
qualifying campaign starts in October, while the second round of
matches will be in November. The concluding rounds will be in 2017.
Algeria, Cameroon and Zambia in qualifiers for the 2018 World Cup in
Russia.
Nigeria, Algeria and Cameroon were all in Brazil for the last World
Cup were both the Super Eagles and Algeria advanced to the second
round two years ago.
With this group, it means, the trio might not make it to the
tournament in Russia, while it is certain that two of the last African
representatives would not make it to Russia.
The Super Eagles will have to sort out their away form if they are to
qualify for their sixth World Cup in Russia. With no substantive coach
in place, the NFF would have to quickly resolve the uncertainty over
that position as well as the venue where Nigeria would play their
matches.
Algeria, who are the highest ranked side in Africa have enjoyed a
steady rise on the continent since they started calling on players on
where born in Europe to Algerian parents following FIFA's rule change.
They will arguably be Nigeria's strongest opponent in the group, and
on current form would pose the greatest obstacle to the Super Eagles
chances of qualifying for Russia.
The indomitable lions, Cameroon is another team with a pedigree that
could hurt Nigeria's chances. They have been to the World Cup a record
seven times. With so much at stake, there will be no margin for error
for the Super Eagles in qualifying.
While Zambia will equally not be pushovers as the 2012 African
champions are a good footballing side on their day, and are strong at
home.
Nigeria will have to negotiate the qualifiers knowing that they have
no margin for errors if they are to be in Russia.
Full group.
Group A
Tunisia, Libya, DR Congo, Guinea
Group B
Nigeria, Cameroon, Zambia, Algeria
Group C
Gabon, Mail, Ivory Coast, Morocco
Group D
Senegal, South Africa, Burkina Faso, Cape Verde
Group E
Ghana, Egypt, Congo, Uganda
The group winners will qualify for the 2018 World Cup in Russia. The
qualifying campaign starts in October, while the second round of
matches will be in November. The concluding rounds will be in 2017.
Friday, 27 May 2016
Jose Mourinho Becomes Manchester United Manager
Jose Mourinho has been confirmed as Manchester United manager. He
replaces Louis van Gaal who was dimissed on Monday, two days after
winning the FA Cup.
Manchester United Executive Vice Chairman Ed Woodward praised the
appointment as he described the Portuguese "as simply the best manager
in the game today."
The former Porto, Chelsea, Inter and Real Madrid manager was more
measured in his statement after his confirmation by saying it was a
special honour in the game to be Manchester United manager.
The eccentric Portuguese has been linked to the manager's position at
Old Trafford since last December, and he was widely reported to have
been appointed as the club's manager after Saturday's FA Cup final.
With his confirmation, he is now expected to set about rebuilding a
squad that struggled for most of last season.
With his reputation in tatters after he was sacked as Chelsea manager
following their bad start to the season, he would be keen to regain
his position in the game by moving the Red Devils to a height never
before seen since the Alex Ferguson era.
However, despite the disappointing end to his second spell at Chelsea,
his record as a Premier League manager remains up there with the best.
With three Premier League titles, three League Cups and two FA Cup.
This is before factoring in his record at Porto, Inter Milan and Real
Madrid where he won a combined five league titles, two Champions
League crown, a Uefa cup, and three domestic cups.
That he is a manager that guarantees trophies is not in doubt, but
dealing with the baggages he comes with is another issue entirely. And
talking about his other sides would inevitably bring about talk of his
time at Real Madrid where he had a heated rivalry with Barcelona whose
manager at the time was a certain Pep Guardiola. Who incidentally is
now Manchester City's manager.
The presence of this two personalities should bring added spice to the
Manchester derby next season.
Jose Mourinho will have no Champions League to feature in next season.
He would have to make do with the Europa League, a competition he has
often derided in the past. However, the last time he managed a team in
the equivalent Uefa Cup which gave way to the Europa League, his Porto
side went on to win it.
It remains to be seen what he brings to Old Trafford.
replaces Louis van Gaal who was dimissed on Monday, two days after
winning the FA Cup.
Manchester United Executive Vice Chairman Ed Woodward praised the
appointment as he described the Portuguese "as simply the best manager
in the game today."
The former Porto, Chelsea, Inter and Real Madrid manager was more
measured in his statement after his confirmation by saying it was a
special honour in the game to be Manchester United manager.
The eccentric Portuguese has been linked to the manager's position at
Old Trafford since last December, and he was widely reported to have
been appointed as the club's manager after Saturday's FA Cup final.
With his confirmation, he is now expected to set about rebuilding a
squad that struggled for most of last season.
With his reputation in tatters after he was sacked as Chelsea manager
following their bad start to the season, he would be keen to regain
his position in the game by moving the Red Devils to a height never
before seen since the Alex Ferguson era.
However, despite the disappointing end to his second spell at Chelsea,
his record as a Premier League manager remains up there with the best.
With three Premier League titles, three League Cups and two FA Cup.
This is before factoring in his record at Porto, Inter Milan and Real
Madrid where he won a combined five league titles, two Champions
League crown, a Uefa cup, and three domestic cups.
That he is a manager that guarantees trophies is not in doubt, but
dealing with the baggages he comes with is another issue entirely. And
talking about his other sides would inevitably bring about talk of his
time at Real Madrid where he had a heated rivalry with Barcelona whose
manager at the time was a certain Pep Guardiola. Who incidentally is
now Manchester City's manager.
The presence of this two personalities should bring added spice to the
Manchester derby next season.
Jose Mourinho will have no Champions League to feature in next season.
He would have to make do with the Europa League, a competition he has
often derided in the past. However, the last time he managed a team in
the equivalent Uefa Cup which gave way to the Europa League, his Porto
side went on to win it.
It remains to be seen what he brings to Old Trafford.
Wednesday, 25 May 2016
Official: Arsenal Signs Granit Xhaka
Arsenal have announced the signing of 23 year old Swiss international,
Granit Xhaka on a long term contract for an undisclosed fee.
The 6ft 1in midfielder told the official Arsenal website that
"I am very proud of joining Arsenal. I cannot wait to move to London
and represent this special club and play in the Premier League.
"I will give everything to help Arsenal win trophies and to make the
fans happy." he said
On his part, Arsenal manager, Arsene Wenger said this about his new
signing "he is an exciting young player, already with good Champions
League and Bundesliga experience.
"We have been watching him for a long time now and he is a player who
would add quality to our squad."
His arrival come on the heels of the departures of Mikel Arteta, Tomas
Rosicky and Mathieu Flamini after their contract expired.
He is the first central midfielder for the first team squad that
Arsene Wenger has signed that is over six foot for a number of
seasons.
In his four years with Borussia Monchengladbach, he made 108
Bundesliga appearances.
He was part of the Swiss squad that was eliminated in the second round
of the 2014 World Cup in Brazil. And he is expected to play a key role
for the Swiss team at the European Championships in France which
starts on June 10.
He joins a central midfield that already have Santi Cazorla, Mohammed
Elneny, Jack Wilshere, Francis Coquelin and Aaron Ramsey.
Granit Xhaka on a long term contract for an undisclosed fee.
The 6ft 1in midfielder told the official Arsenal website that
"I am very proud of joining Arsenal. I cannot wait to move to London
and represent this special club and play in the Premier League.
"I will give everything to help Arsenal win trophies and to make the
fans happy." he said
On his part, Arsenal manager, Arsene Wenger said this about his new
signing "he is an exciting young player, already with good Champions
League and Bundesliga experience.
"We have been watching him for a long time now and he is a player who
would add quality to our squad."
His arrival come on the heels of the departures of Mikel Arteta, Tomas
Rosicky and Mathieu Flamini after their contract expired.
He is the first central midfielder for the first team squad that
Arsene Wenger has signed that is over six foot for a number of
seasons.
In his four years with Borussia Monchengladbach, he made 108
Bundesliga appearances.
He was part of the Swiss squad that was eliminated in the second round
of the 2014 World Cup in Brazil. And he is expected to play a key role
for the Swiss team at the European Championships in France which
starts on June 10.
He joins a central midfield that already have Santi Cazorla, Mohammed
Elneny, Jack Wilshere, Francis Coquelin and Aaron Ramsey.
Monday, 23 May 2016
Louis van Gaal Was A Dead Man Walking Before He Was Sacked
Manchester United announced the sacking of their manager on Monday.
The news of Louis van Gaal's departure had leaked minutes after the
club won their 12th FA Cup on Saturday. The media was awashed with
reports of Jose Mourinho's appointment as the club's replacement to
the Dutchman.
The former Ajax, Barcelona and Bayern Munich manager has been under
the spotlight all season going by various media reports. Leaving aside
the FA Cup triumph, he presided over a poor season by the club's high
standard.
Different words have been used to describe the Old Trafford club this
season, from boring to functional, the list is endless.
The club descended from their ethos of attacking football to a side
that was afraid to play anything resembling football.
That Manchester United only scored 49 goals in 38 league matches was a
reflection of the poor tactics deployed by the Dutchman.
He arrived Old Trafford with a reputation after he guided the
Netherlands to fourth place in the 2014 World Cup. However, after a
difficult start to his first season in charge, the club rallied round
to finish in the top four with key wins over Liverpool at Anfield and
a swashbuckling 4-1 win over city rivals Manchester City at Old
Trafford.
However, that is as good as it got for the club in his first season,
but finishing in the top four after the disaster of the David Moyes
era was regarded as a step forward for the club.
Yet, he was expected to have kicked on in his second season by making
the club title contenders, but instead they went backward after
topping the league in November. It was the high point of the first
half of the season as the team exited the Champions League at the
group stage after an error strewn 3-2 defeat to Wolfsburg in Germany.
There was little joy in the Europa League as they were eliminated by Liverpool.
The Dutchman's reputation was not enhanced by the way he prevented his
team to play exciting football with his obdurate tactics. That
Manchester United went eleven games at Old Trafford without scoring a
first half goal was as strange as it was a odd statistics in many
ways.
Indeed the way this season has gone for the club, Van Gaal was walking
a tight rope and his sacking has not come as a surprise, if anything
many within the Manchester United circle are glad to see the back of
the Dutchman.
However, despite the fact that he failed to deliver a top four finish
in his last season at the club, if winning a trophy is used to judge
his time at Old Trafford, he can point to the FA cup he delivered.
A win that was significant in many ways as it was the first trophy
since Alex Ferguson left the club, and the first FA cup the club has
won since 2004.
For all the high that greeted his arrival at the club two years ago,
Louis van Gaal leaves the club without a tear from anybody associated
with the club. A cruel way to leave an organisation, but to many a
necessary cutting of ties in order for Ed Woodward and co to usher in
a new era which will start with a certain Portuguese.
The news of Louis van Gaal's departure had leaked minutes after the
club won their 12th FA Cup on Saturday. The media was awashed with
reports of Jose Mourinho's appointment as the club's replacement to
the Dutchman.
The former Ajax, Barcelona and Bayern Munich manager has been under
the spotlight all season going by various media reports. Leaving aside
the FA Cup triumph, he presided over a poor season by the club's high
standard.
Different words have been used to describe the Old Trafford club this
season, from boring to functional, the list is endless.
The club descended from their ethos of attacking football to a side
that was afraid to play anything resembling football.
That Manchester United only scored 49 goals in 38 league matches was a
reflection of the poor tactics deployed by the Dutchman.
He arrived Old Trafford with a reputation after he guided the
Netherlands to fourth place in the 2014 World Cup. However, after a
difficult start to his first season in charge, the club rallied round
to finish in the top four with key wins over Liverpool at Anfield and
a swashbuckling 4-1 win over city rivals Manchester City at Old
Trafford.
However, that is as good as it got for the club in his first season,
but finishing in the top four after the disaster of the David Moyes
era was regarded as a step forward for the club.
Yet, he was expected to have kicked on in his second season by making
the club title contenders, but instead they went backward after
topping the league in November. It was the high point of the first
half of the season as the team exited the Champions League at the
group stage after an error strewn 3-2 defeat to Wolfsburg in Germany.
There was little joy in the Europa League as they were eliminated by Liverpool.
The Dutchman's reputation was not enhanced by the way he prevented his
team to play exciting football with his obdurate tactics. That
Manchester United went eleven games at Old Trafford without scoring a
first half goal was as strange as it was a odd statistics in many
ways.
Indeed the way this season has gone for the club, Van Gaal was walking
a tight rope and his sacking has not come as a surprise, if anything
many within the Manchester United circle are glad to see the back of
the Dutchman.
However, despite the fact that he failed to deliver a top four finish
in his last season at the club, if winning a trophy is used to judge
his time at Old Trafford, he can point to the FA cup he delivered.
A win that was significant in many ways as it was the first trophy
since Alex Ferguson left the club, and the first FA cup the club has
won since 2004.
For all the high that greeted his arrival at the club two years ago,
Louis van Gaal leaves the club without a tear from anybody associated
with the club. A cruel way to leave an organisation, but to many a
necessary cutting of ties in order for Ed Woodward and co to usher in
a new era which will start with a certain Portuguese.
Saturday, 21 May 2016
Leaked Photos Shows Granit Xhaka's Move To Arsenal Already Done
Arsenal are a club known for its secrecy when it comes to transfers. However, in what should come as a surprise to the club's transfer fixers, the photos of Swiss midfielder Granit Xhaka, who reports circulating around is in London for his medicals was leaked by unknown persons to social media earlier today.
The leaked photos all but confirms the reports doing the rounds in the media that the player is close to completing his transfer to Arsenal.
Below are the leaked photos of the 23 year old
Friday, 20 May 2016
FA Cup Preview: Can Manchester United Savage A Poor Season?
Manchester United face Crystal Palace as overwhelming favourites for Saturday's FA Cup final at Wembley stadium. Louis van Gaal's side have endured a disappointing season that saw them finish in fifth place in the P league in what was a see-saw season for the Red Devils. It means Manchester United would have to do without Champions League football for the second time in three seasons.
However, despite what has been a season of upheaval at Old Trafford, Van Gaal can still end the season on a high with triumph at Wembley. Yet, few would put a full proof bet on Manchester United carrying the day if their inconsistent performances is anything to go by. Judging by the contrasting displays against West Ham United and Bournemouth in their last two Premier League matches of the season.
The significance of a win if it comes at Wembley would translate to the club's first major trophy post the Alex Ferguson era. And it would equal Arsenal's record of a 12th FA cup win.
For Crystal Palace, Alan Pardew once had a close shot at the FA cup when he was a player at Selhurts Park in the 1990s. He was in the Crystal Palace team that lost the FA cup to Manchester United in 1990. He has tried to replicate that story by fielding strong teams in the competition since he became manager of the club, and a triumph at Wembley would be a fitting finish for the Englishman.
For either side, there are players that could be instrumental to how the match would go on the day,
Marcus Rashford who was on target against Bournemouth on Tuesday should be a key player upfront for Manchester United if he starts. The 18 year old has been a revelation since he made his senior debut in February. While Anthony Martial is another player that could turn a match on it head. The 20 year old is the club's highest goal scorer with 17 goals in his first season.
It is hard to look beyond these two players as the key to Manchester United's play on the day. Although Wayne Rooney could have a thing or two to say about that.
On the other hand, Crystal Palace have Yannick Bolasie, Connor Wickham, Bakary Kone, and Wilfred Zaha to call on. With their speed on the wings, Van Gaal's full backs would have to be on their toes on Saturday. Although, Crystal Palace would be without Welsh midfielder Joe Ledley who suffered a broken leg last weekend.
Kick off for the match is 5:30pm UK Time
Reports: Arsenal Close In On Swiss Midfielder Granit Xhaka
 | |
| Granit Xhaka |
The 6ft 1in midfielder who is adept in tackling, with a wide range of
passing said earlier in the week that he could see himself as 'absolutely' playing for the North London club when asked whether he could imagine himself playing for Arsenal.
He had earlier hinted that any deal that would bring him to London
would have to be completed before the start of Euro 2016 which starts
on June 11th.
The midfielder comes highly recommended going by the comments of past
managers that have coached him over the years. Former Basel manager
Paulo Soussa once described him as an exceptional player, while former
Swiss national team coach as well as Bayern Munich also described him
as a young Bastian Schweinsteiger.
He was part of the Swiss squad to the 2014 World Cup in Brazil, and he
is expected to play a key role for Switzerland at this summer's
European Championships in France.
With the departures of Mikel Arteta, Tomas Rosicky and Mathieu Flamini
after their contract expired, Arsenal would be reinforcing a part of
the squad that has lacked any physical presence for a couple of
seasons.
Its early signing when completed is expected to kick start what should
be busy summer at the Emirates after what was a disappointing season
for the North London club as the wheels came off another title
challenge.
Tuesday, 17 May 2016
EPL Review: Strange Season Ends Strangely
The English Premier League ended on Sunday with few things still left to be resolved going into the last day. Second place was up for brags for Arsenal if Spurs slipped up, while Manchester United had an outside chance of finishing fourth place if result went their way.
Leicester City had been crowned champions in what was a strange season. And happenings on the final day of the season meant the season did not just end without some strange things happening.
The Old Trafford Fathom Incendiary Device
In what was a first in the Premier League era, a league match on the last day of the season was postponed because of the discovery of a device that looked like a improvised explosive. Fans were already in the stadium when stewards discovered the device. This led to the ground be emptied before kick-off, after which the match was postponed. The device that led to the postponement of the match turned out to be a fathom device left behind by a security firm who had a drill a day earlier at the stadium. But the embarassment, logistical problem and tension it brought on the day caused alot of distress for not just the fans, but the players.
As it turned out, it was nothing serious on the day. The match has now been rescheduled for this Tuesday.
The highest place Manchester United can now finish is fifth place. This is after city rivals Manchester City secured the draw they needed against Swansea to finish in fourth place. Although, Louis van Gaal's side would have to secure victory against Bournemouth to display Southampton from fifth place. A Europa League is place is where both sides will end up.
Arsenal Celebrate Unlikely Second Place
Arsenal went into the last round of matches needing result at St James Park to go their way for them to finish second for the first time since 2005. Few expected that Newcastle United would beat Tottenham Hotspur. Arsene Wenger's side did their bit by beating relegated Aston Villa 4-0 with Oliver Giroud getting a hat-trick. But then came the surprise result over from St. James Park where the Mapgies defeated Spurs 5-1 with three of the goals coming after they had gone down to 10 players following a sending off.
That result meant Arsenal have finished over their North London rivals for 21st straight season, and since Arsene Wenger became manager of Arsenal in 1996. Tottenham Hotspur have not finished above the red side of North London.
Claudio Ranieri Returned To Stamford Bridge As A King
Claudio Ranieri was sacked in 2004 a year after Roman Abramovich became the owner of Chelsea. The Italian led Chelsea to second place behind Arsenal that season, but was replaced by Jose Mourinho. The very likeable Ranieri left Stamford Bridge twelve years ago with his head down. But it was the man that sacked him more than a decade ago that personally welcomed him back to the Bridge with an handshake in recognition of what he has achieved this season with Leicester City.
The accolade did not end there, Leicester City were given a guard of honour by the Chelsea players. And the crowd chanted the name of the Italian.
It was fitting that Chelsea's draw against Tottenham handed the title to Leicester City, and there was mutual respect for what both Claudio Ranieri and his players had achieved this season at Stamford Bridge.
Key stats from the season
Leicester City--------81
Arsenal---------------71
Spurs-----------------70
Man City------------66
Highest Goal Scorers
Harry Kane (Spurs)--25 goals
Jamie Vardy (Leicester)--24goals
Sergio Aguero (Man City)--24goals
Most Clean sheets
Petr Cech--16 clean sheets
David de Gea--15 clean sheets*
*Still have a match to play.
Most Assist
Mesut Ozil--19 assists
Relegated
Newcastle United
Norwich City
Aston Villa
Saturday, 14 May 2016
Major Revamp For CAF Champions League & Confederation Cup
The Confederation of Africa Football CAF, have announced that the number of clubs participating in the group stages of the Champions League and Confederation Cup will increase from the present eight teams to sixteen teams from 2017.
The present format of eight teams in the group stages have been in place since 1997 when the group stage format was introduced into the continent's premier club competition.
Already, clubs from Nigeria, Egypt, Tunisia, Algeria, Morocco, Egypt, Ivory Coast, Ghana, Angola have two representatives in the two club competitions. It is not clear whether the number would go up.
This new development which was announced by the CAF president Issa Haytou in the just concluded CAF congress which told place on the sidelines of the FIFA congress in Mexico will no doubt bring a new impetus into the club competitions in Africa. The eight team group stage was seen as too restrictive, and it prevented clubs from certain parts of the continent especially East Africa from qualifying for the group stages.
For instance, if the sixteen teams group stage format were to start this year, TP Mazembe of DR Congo, who are the Champions League holders would have been able to defend their trophy, as they were knocked out at the round of 16 stage.
With the opening of the competition to accommodate more clubs, it will also have a domino effect on the financial benfits that would accure from featuring in the later stages of the competition.
Arsenal's Thirties Trio Face Last Day At The Club
Arsenal's trio of Mikel Arteta, Tomas Rosicky and Mathieu Flamini are expected to leave the club after tomorrow's last Premier League match of the season at the Emirates. They have barely featured in what has been a disappointing season for Arsene Wenger's side. With a combined age of 101 years, their time at the club has come to an end as their contract expires this summer.
Mikel Arteta was an influential figure when he was signed from Everton five years ago, at a turbulent time for the club, he was a key midfield player alongside Alex Song, and later Aaron Ramsey for two consecutive seasons, and his absence from the side when he was first choice made it difficult for Arsenal to win matches.
His ability to both recent possession, and his calming influence on the team made him a key player on and off the pitch. However, his influence on the side subsequently reduced after he suffered series of calf and ankle injuries that restricted him to a handful of appearances in the last two seasons. As the curtain comes down on his Arsenal career, he would be remembered for the influence he exerted at a time the ship at the club was about to sink after the 8-2 trashing at Old Trafford in 2011. To many Arsenal fans, he should have been bought earlier.
Thirty five years old Tomas Rosicky, is however a different kettle of fish. He arrived at the club the year its switched from the ancestry home of Highbury to the Emirates in the summer of 2006. He was a key player with the Czech national team and Borussia Dortmund when he arrived, But, his ten year stay at Arsenal was plagued by injuries. He formed a midfield quartet with Alex Hleb, Cesc Fabregas and Mathieu Flamini in the 2007/2008 season. That squad almost went on to win the league, and the injury he suffered in January 2008 contributed to Arsenal's later struggles that season. That he returned almost two years after that injury showed the time he missed playing for the club.
He arrived at 25, admittedly the start of the peak years for a football player, but injuries meant that for the ten years he spent at the club, he only really played three years of regular football. One of his best displays in an Arsenal shirt was the FA cup match against Brighton last season, when he scored a memorable goal with the outside of his boot. His swashbuckling performance made Arsene Wenger to remark that, "if you love football, you love Tomas Rosicky"
In the case of Mathieu Flamini, the end of his second spell at the club is a case of mixed bag. He arrived with a point to prove, and he showed that with his first match back in an Arsenal shirt when he was instrumental to Arsenal winning 1-0 against Tottenham Hotspur in August 2013. However, besides other fleetingly good performance, any standout display were few and far between. But he would always be remembered for the brace he scored against North London rivals Tottenham in the League Cup in September.
It is the end of an era for these players. They have made Arsene Wenger's job easier as the Frenchman would rather watch a player that he fancies contract to run down instead being ruthless to sell such a player to allow for a more better player in their place instead.
Although, the trio were not first choice, they were part of the reasons Arsene Wenger declined to sign additional central midfielders that would have added depth to the team.
They leave with two FA cups and Community Shield to show for their time at the club. In the case of Flamini, it is three FA cups, as he won his first cup with the club back in 2005 in his first spell.
Monday, 2 May 2016
Manchester United On The Precipices
 |
| Marcus Rashford |
The 1-1 draw against Leicester City on Sunday means with three matches left, Manchester United are in serious danger of missing out of the Champions League for the second time in three seasons. They only returned this season, although it was short lived by a group stage exit. The Red Devils lie four points behind Manchester City who are fourth on 64points, and a further seven points behind third placed Arsenal on 67points. While Manchester United are fifth, it is not a comfortable position as West Ham are just a point back in sixth place on 59points. Slaven Bilic's side have been hovering round that position all season as they push for a place in Europe. Both West Ham and Manchester United will play each other in one of the outstanding matches. Its a tie that will go a long way in deciding who finishes in a higher position.
Louis van Gaal's Manchester United are in the FA cup final, where they will play Crystal Palace later this month. However, a first major trophy for the club in three seasons without a top four finish might not be enough to save Van Gaal his job in what would be the final year of his contract.
The Dutchman said on the eve of the match against Leicester City that he expects to remain manager next season. It was the first time he has publicly claim he would be around next season. According to him, if the media is to be believed this season, he has already being sacked six times. Yet, he is still Manchester United's manager. Yet that decision on whether he would stay lies with Ed Woodward, the club's Executive Vice Chairman.
The former manager of Ajax, Barcelona and Bayern Munich has been under serious pressure all season with reports linking the Dutchman away from Old Trafford with Jose Mourinho tipped as his replacement.
One of the things, the Dutchman was brought in to do was to make Manchester United a regular top four side. He got this in his first season in charge.But, failure to finish in the top four top this season might be the final nail on his coffin. And as it stands, a top four finish looks unlikely with three matches left to play.
Ultimately, if this season ends up as the last for the Dutchman, his legacy will be judged by what has been his trademark in most of the club he has managed which is his propensity to give youth a chance. Through him a new star at Old Trafford was born this season in the person of Marcus Rashford. He has used a plethora of young players this season from the club's academy. Whether this would be part of the next manager's plans remains to be seen.
For now, Manchester United lies on a precipice, yet, a disappointing season could still end up with a 12th FA cup win.
Monday, 25 April 2016
Juventus Seals Fifth Serie A Title In A Row
The defeat gives Juventus an unassailable 12 points lead in the league table with three matches left.
Juventus----------- 85
Napoli--------------73
Roma-------------- 71
Maxi Allegri's Juventus side started the season poorly with a raft ofnew players struggling to settle in after key players Andre Pirlo, Arturo Vidal and Carlos Tevez left the club last summer. It resulted in three defeats from the opening five league matches, and it left the Old Lady 11 points off top spot by the end of October.
But a run of 24 wins in 25 league matches, with other ending in a draw has brought
another title for Juventus.
They have a chance to seal a league and cup double when they face AC Milan in May in the Coppa Italia final.
Saturday, 23 April 2016
Martial Sends Manchester United to FA Cup Final
FA Cup Semi Finals
Wembley Stadium
Everton 1
Manchester United 2
Anthony Martial scored a last gasp winner for Manchester United to
send Louis van Gaal's side to the club's first FA Cup final since
2007.
The match had swung one direction in the first half when Marcus
Rashford and Martial combined to set up Maroune Felliani to open the
scoring in the 34th minute to set the Red devils on their way.
Despite looking largely subdued, Everton still created some succession
of chances which Romelu Lukaku failed to convert.
The Belgian international had a perfect chance from the spot in the
57th to pull Everton level after Tosu Mensah brought down Ross
Barkley, his penalty kick was saved by David de Gea who guessed the
right way.
Despite the miss, Everton were still in the ascendency as they
eventually got the equaliser 15 minutes from time as Chris Smalling
diverted Deflueoso's cross into his own net.
There was a lull in the game after the equaliser, as neither side
really went close to a winner, until the late intervention from
Anthony Martial who scored the winner when the match was destined for
extra time.
The win is another boost for Louis van Gaal's Manchester United as
they bid to win the first major trophy of the post Ferguson era. They
will now be overwhelming favourite to the win the cup for a joint
record 12th time with Arsenal.
The other semi final holds Sunday between London sides Crystal Palace
and Watford.
For Everton manager, Roberto Martinez, this could have been a last
attempt to savage what has been a hugely disappointing season for the
club. With huge pressure coming from fans of the club, and the change
of ownership of the Everton, he could well be overseeing his last few
weeks as manager of the Merseyside club.
Wembley Stadium
Everton 1
Manchester United 2
Anthony Martial scored a last gasp winner for Manchester United to
send Louis van Gaal's side to the club's first FA Cup final since
2007.
The match had swung one direction in the first half when Marcus
Rashford and Martial combined to set up Maroune Felliani to open the
scoring in the 34th minute to set the Red devils on their way.
Despite looking largely subdued, Everton still created some succession
of chances which Romelu Lukaku failed to convert.
The Belgian international had a perfect chance from the spot in the
57th to pull Everton level after Tosu Mensah brought down Ross
Barkley, his penalty kick was saved by David de Gea who guessed the
right way.
Despite the miss, Everton were still in the ascendency as they
eventually got the equaliser 15 minutes from time as Chris Smalling
diverted Deflueoso's cross into his own net.
There was a lull in the game after the equaliser, as neither side
really went close to a winner, until the late intervention from
Anthony Martial who scored the winner when the match was destined for
extra time.
The win is another boost for Louis van Gaal's Manchester United as
they bid to win the first major trophy of the post Ferguson era. They
will now be overwhelming favourite to the win the cup for a joint
record 12th time with Arsenal.
The other semi final holds Sunday between London sides Crystal Palace
and Watford.
For Everton manager, Roberto Martinez, this could have been a last
attempt to savage what has been a hugely disappointing season for the
club. With huge pressure coming from fans of the club, and the change
of ownership of the Everton, he could well be overseeing his last few
weeks as manager of the Merseyside club.
Thursday, 21 April 2016
Sanchez Fires Arsenal To Win Over West Brom In Near Empty Emirates
Two first half goals from Alexis Sanchez gave Arsenal a comfortable
2-0 win over West Brom at the Emirates. The Chilean has now scored six
goals and assisted three more in his last five games.
He opened the scoring in the 4th minute when he spinned away from
Sandro, and took a shot from 20 yards to opening the scoring for
Wenger's side. It was Arsenal's first goal from outside the box in the
league in 2016.
Sanchez has returned to goal scoring form since being moved to the right wing.
Arsene Wenger made three changes from the match against Crystal Palace
at the weekend with Giroud, Ramsey and Mertesacker coming in for
Welbeck, Coquelin and Gabriel. Despite the German's presence in the
back four, West Brom should have scored from a corner to tie the match
after hitting the bar with Petr Cech beaten.
Alexis Sanchez sealed the match in the 33rd minute to move Arsenal
back into third place two points ahead of Manchester City on 63
points. However, the battle for a top four finish will go down to the
last weeks of the season with Manchester United just four points
Arsenal in fifth place with four matches left.
The match at the Emirates was watched by few supporters, as many
stayed away despite most of the tickets going on general sale few days
earlier. Most fans have been frustrated and disillusioned by the way
the season has panned out. With Arsenal now expected to finish the
season without a trophy, and yet another poor attempt to mount a
sustained title challenge.
Arsenal travel to the Stadium of Light to face relegation threatened
Sunderland in this weekend fixtures.
2-0 win over West Brom at the Emirates. The Chilean has now scored six
goals and assisted three more in his last five games.
He opened the scoring in the 4th minute when he spinned away from
Sandro, and took a shot from 20 yards to opening the scoring for
Wenger's side. It was Arsenal's first goal from outside the box in the
league in 2016.
Sanchez has returned to goal scoring form since being moved to the right wing.
Arsene Wenger made three changes from the match against Crystal Palace
at the weekend with Giroud, Ramsey and Mertesacker coming in for
Welbeck, Coquelin and Gabriel. Despite the German's presence in the
back four, West Brom should have scored from a corner to tie the match
after hitting the bar with Petr Cech beaten.
Alexis Sanchez sealed the match in the 33rd minute to move Arsenal
back into third place two points ahead of Manchester City on 63
points. However, the battle for a top four finish will go down to the
last weeks of the season with Manchester United just four points
Arsenal in fifth place with four matches left.
The match at the Emirates was watched by few supporters, as many
stayed away despite most of the tickets going on general sale few days
earlier. Most fans have been frustrated and disillusioned by the way
the season has panned out. With Arsenal now expected to finish the
season without a trophy, and yet another poor attempt to mount a
sustained title challenge.
Arsenal travel to the Stadium of Light to face relegation threatened
Sunderland in this weekend fixtures.
Mesut Ozil Miss Out On PFA Team Of The Year
Arsenal playmaker Mesut Ozil's name is missing from the season's PFA
team of year. The list is dominated by the two tops teams in the
Premier League race, with Leicester City and Tottenham Hotspur
accounting for eight players of the eleven. West Ham, Arsenal and
Manchester United are the other teams with players in the PFA team of
the year.
Leicester City have four players which are Wes Morgan, N'golo Kante,
Jamie Vardy, Riyad Mahrez.
Tottenham Hotspur also have four players. They are defenders Danny
Rose and Toby Alderweireld, Dele Alli and Kane.
Manchester United accounts for David de Gea in the list. While Arsenal
and West Ham have Hector Bellerin and Dimitri Payet respectively.
The Full list:
David de Gea, Hector Bellerin, Wes Morgan, Toby Alderweireld, Danny
Rose, N'Golo Kante, Jamie Vardy, Riyad Mahrez, Dimitri Payet, Dele
Alli, Kane
The ceremony where the winner of the Premier League player's of the
year will on the 24th of this month. Kane, Jamie Vardy and Mesut Ozil
are amongst the nominees. Kane has 24 league goals, Vardy 22, while
Ozil has a league high 18 assist and 3 league goals.
team of year. The list is dominated by the two tops teams in the
Premier League race, with Leicester City and Tottenham Hotspur
accounting for eight players of the eleven. West Ham, Arsenal and
Manchester United are the other teams with players in the PFA team of
the year.
Leicester City have four players which are Wes Morgan, N'golo Kante,
Jamie Vardy, Riyad Mahrez.
Tottenham Hotspur also have four players. They are defenders Danny
Rose and Toby Alderweireld, Dele Alli and Kane.
Manchester United accounts for David de Gea in the list. While Arsenal
and West Ham have Hector Bellerin and Dimitri Payet respectively.
The Full list:
David de Gea, Hector Bellerin, Wes Morgan, Toby Alderweireld, Danny
Rose, N'Golo Kante, Jamie Vardy, Riyad Mahrez, Dimitri Payet, Dele
Alli, Kane
The ceremony where the winner of the Premier League player's of the
year will on the 24th of this month. Kane, Jamie Vardy and Mesut Ozil
are amongst the nominees. Kane has 24 league goals, Vardy 22, while
Ozil has a league high 18 assist and 3 league goals.
Arsenal Team To Face West Brom
Ahead of the match against West Brom at The Emirates, Arsene Wenger
makes three changes to the starting eleven that played in the 1-1 draw
against Crystal Palace last weekend.
Per Mertesacker comes in for Gabriel in central defence, Aaron Ramsey
replaces Francis Coquelin in central defence, while Oliver Giroud
starts in place of Danny Welbeck in attack.
Full Teams:
Petr Cech, Hectro Bellerin, Per Mertesacker, Laurent Koscienly, Nacho
Monreal, Mohammed Elneny, Aaron Ramsey, Alex Iwobi, Alexis Sanchez,
Mesut Ozil, Oliver Giroud.
Subs: David Ospina, Gabriel, Joel Campbell, Francis Coquelin, Theo
Walcott, Danny Welbeck, Calums Chambers.
makes three changes to the starting eleven that played in the 1-1 draw
against Crystal Palace last weekend.
Per Mertesacker comes in for Gabriel in central defence, Aaron Ramsey
replaces Francis Coquelin in central defence, while Oliver Giroud
starts in place of Danny Welbeck in attack.
Full Teams:
Petr Cech, Hectro Bellerin, Per Mertesacker, Laurent Koscienly, Nacho
Monreal, Mohammed Elneny, Aaron Ramsey, Alex Iwobi, Alexis Sanchez,
Mesut Ozil, Oliver Giroud.
Subs: David Ospina, Gabriel, Joel Campbell, Francis Coquelin, Theo
Walcott, Danny Welbeck, Calums Chambers.
Wednesday, 20 April 2016
La Liga Round: Barcelona Score Eight, Atletico And Real Madrid Keep Up Pressure
Barcelona returned to winning waves in la liga with an emphatic 8-0 win over an hapless Deportivo la Carona on Wednesday night. The Catalans had lost their last three league matches to surrender a comfortable lead at the top of the table. But they were in the mood on Wednesday as four goals from Luis Suarez, and one apiece for Lionel Messi and Neymar was enough for Luis Enrique's side to move up to 78 points in the league with just four matches left to play.
Mean while, Atletico Madrid kept up the pressure as they defeated Bilbao in a tight match. Fernando Torres scored his fifth goal in five matches in the 38th minute to give Diego Simeone's side a slim victory over the Basque side. They stay in second place on 78 points behind Barcelona. The Catalans lead the table on their superior head-to-head advantage.
Real Madrid who are just one point behind on 77 points, overcame the tricky tie against Villarreal 3-0 on the night with Karim Benzema, Luca Modric in amongst the goals for Zidane's side.
With just four matches left in the league, it should go down to the closing weeks of the season.
EPL Round Up: Manchester United Close Gap On 4th Spot, Liverpool Continues Winning Streak
Manchester United moved within a point of the Champions League places after a 2-0 win over Crystal Palace in a scheduled match played on Wednesday night at Old Trafford. The first goal came through an own goal from Delaney in the first half, while right back Damien put the finishing touches on the tie with the second goal. Louis van Gaal's side are now just a point behind Arsenal in fourth place, and just two points behind Manchester City who are third. However, Arsenal can extend their lead over the Old Trafford outfit to four points if they beat West Brom on Thursday.
In the Merseyside derby at Anfield, goals from Divock Origi, Daniel Sturridge, Sakho and Coutinho sealed a 4-0 win over Everton for Jurgen Klopp's side. The Reds have continued their late season resurgence as they look to finish the season in a flourish especially with the Europa League semi finals against Villarreal coming up next week. They are now on 54points, just six points from fourth place.
In the last match of the night, West Ham overcame Watford 3-1 in a London derby played at Upton Park.
Enyimba Through To CAF Champions League Group Stages On Penalties After Afelokhai's Heroics
The seven time Nigeria league champions threw away a three goal lead they built up in Port Harcourt from the first leg two weeks ago. The Tunisians were on the attack from the opening stages of the match, as they had a shot cleared off the line as they mounted sustained pressure on the Enyimba
goal. They eventually opened the scoring in the 43th minute after a free kick on the edge of the book wrong footed goalkeeper, Afelokhai.
The People's Elephant caved in the second half as they conceded two more goals to bring aggregate scores to 3-3 on the night. Enyimba could easily have lost the match in normal time, but still, they could have gone through without the need of penalties as Pyagbara missed a great chance to seal passage for Enyimba when he was played through on goal. It met the match went to penalties.
Mfon Udoh missed the opening penalty kick for Enyimba, but it was Enyimba's goalkeeper who was the hero of the night as he saved three penalties, including two kicks that would have sent the Tunisians through to the group stages.
It was left to Peter Onyekachi to score the decisive kick to sent Enyimba through to the group stages for the first time in over four years.
Paul Aigbogun's side would have to improve on their away form if they are to mount a successful campaign in this year's competition. Enyimba have now lost three matches on the road in the preliminary stages of
the competition. Such form might not see them advance beyond the group stages.
The draws for the group stages will take place on 24th May.
NFF lines Up Two Friendly Matches For Super Eagles
the Super Eagles that will be played latter this year. The matches
which will be played in May and June. The first match will be against
fellow West Africans, Mali and the second tie will see the three time
African champions engage European minnows Luxembourg.
According to the NFF, the Mali match will be played on 27th May in
Rouen in Stade Robert Dichon. While the match against Luxembourg will
be on 1st June in Luxembourg.
The football house has been rocked with internal crisis following the
judgment of the Federal High Court, Jos Division which granted Chris
Giwa the presidency of the NFF. A situation that threw the Amaju
Pinnick led board into confusion.
With the matter still unresolved, the annoucement on Wednesday that
the Super Eagles will be playing some friendly matches is a welcome
distraction the issues at the football house has created.
Although, it is unclear which coach will lead the team for those two
matches as interim coach, Samson Siasia has gone back to his duties as
coach of the Olympic team.
Santi Cazorla Nears Return
Arsene Wenger addressed the press ahead of Arsenal's premier league against West Brom at the Emirates on Thursday. The match serves as an opportunity for the gunners to move towards securing an automatic Champions League place after Manchester City could only draw 1-1 with Newcastle United on Tuesday at St. James Park.
One player that Arsenal has missed since he got injured in November is Santi Cazorla. The 30 year old has been sidelined with ligament and later an Achilles problem. But Wenger confirmed on Wednesday that the ambidextrous Spaniard has returned to full training. With just five matches left of the current season, the Spanish international would be looking to pick up some match time ahead of the European Championships in the summer in France.
In other injury news, Jack Wilshere is not expected to be part of the squad that will face the baggies on Thursday. The England international scored his first goal in 10 months for the U21s on Monday in his third practice game since his return from an hairline fracture that has sidelined him all season. Arsene Wenger is likely to rotate his squad ahead of the match.
Arsenal and its supporters have endured another disappointing season, despite watching key rivals unable to mount a sustained title challenge, the gunners have buckled under the pressure, and have ended up failing to deliver on the huge expectation that the season promised.
Monday, 18 April 2016
Arsenal Idling In Arsene Wenger's Shadow
 | |
| Arsene Wenger |
At the beginning of the year, Arsenal were top of the league, but subsequent inconsistent performances since the turn of the year has culminated in the club fighting for a top four finish with just over a month left of the current season. In previous seasons, the team has been able to put together a sustained run together when they under pressure to finish in the top four. However, this team has lurked between idling in front of goal and looking frail in defence.
It is the same collapse that has become evident in any season Arsenal has managed to be called title contenders. Since the move to the Emirates, the few seasons, the club has been involved in a title tilt has resulted in an inevitable collapse at the February mark. This fragility has become a hallmark of Arsenal since the club crossed from their ancestral home to the Emirates ten years ago this summer.
Over the years, the financial landscape of the club has changed, and this has made it possible for certain players to be recruited, ala Alexis Sanchez and Mesut Ozil, the likes of whom wouldn't have been at the club. Yet despite their signings over the last three seasons, Arsene Wenger has always left his team short of adequate cover in the event of injury to an first team player. The Frenchman's gambling on player's staying fit backfired spectacularly this season. But before that, it is not just the issue of injury that has affected the team's performance, but Wenger's inability to plug certain holes by using the players available to him to achieve results.
While football has evolved with the way teams are prepared tactically for a match, Arsenal have become stale, with it set up play almost the same way in every match irrespective of the opposition. There is always the odd defensive lapses and space all over the midfield, players seldom respect positioning, opposition players are allowed to waltz through the midfield to run at goal without random fouling. Arsenal remains one of the easiest team to score against, and equally one of the easiest team's to prevent from scoring.
The microcosm of Arsenal as a club is that certain attitude will not change except the manager leaves. the laissez faire approach of treating players like cradles instead of pushing them has repeatedly failed over the years. It is this approach that makes Arsenal to lack any form of organisation and structure in most matches, and they are seldom switched on defensively when they are without the ball
In such approach, having the right players on the field that would take a game by the scuff of the neck by taking the initiative would have made it workable, but Wenger has been reluctant to sign the players that he needs to make this approach work, rather the fragile cohesion which he has repeatedly harped on is now a better belt than making signings that would improve the team according to the Frenchman.
It is clear that Arsenal as a football club is at a crossroad. And Arsene Wenger looks every bit like a manager that has reached the peak of his powers judging by the way his teams has flattered to deceive this season. When the stakes are high, the team collapses. And it is a reflection of a manager's personality if this occurs repeatedly. The buck stops with him to prevent such rot. But with just one month left of a nine month season, Arsenal have not convinced even for one month throughout the season.
There have been the inevitable calls for new players, but Arsenal needs a new manager just as they need new players, because new players has not changed how the team performs which is a evidence of the fact that there is a foundational problem from the managerial position.
Friday, 15 April 2016
Champions League Draws: Man City draws Real Madried, Atletico To Face Bayern Munich
English Premier League side Manchester City have been drawn against
Real Madrid in the semi finals of the UEFA Champions League. While
Atletico Madrid will face Pep Guardiola's Bayern Munich in the other
semi finals.
The first leg of the ties with be between April 26th and 27th, and May
4th and 5th.
The draw raises the possibility of all an Spanish final between two of
Madrid's biggest clubs for the second time in two years. After they
played the 2014 finals in Lisbon.
Real Madrid would be facing Manchester City in the Champions League
for the second time. Both sides met in the group stages of the
competition three seasons ago when Real had the upper hand in the
ties.
For Manuel Pellegrini, it is another return to a club he managed for
one season between 2009 and 2010.
Both sides are better known for their attacking prowess than their
defensive qualities, which could make the tie an open one from an
attacking point of view.
Bayern Munich will face another defensive team after they overcame
Juventus and Benfica respectively. The Italian and Portuguese sides
relied on their counter attacking strengths, but it was not enough and
Atletico Madrid would likely rely on that to get something from the
tie.
The final of the this seasons' Champions League will take place in
Milan's San Siro stadium in May.
Real Madrid in the semi finals of the UEFA Champions League. While
Atletico Madrid will face Pep Guardiola's Bayern Munich in the other
semi finals.
The first leg of the ties with be between April 26th and 27th, and May
4th and 5th.
The draw raises the possibility of all an Spanish final between two of
Madrid's biggest clubs for the second time in two years. After they
played the 2014 finals in Lisbon.
Real Madrid would be facing Manchester City in the Champions League
for the second time. Both sides met in the group stages of the
competition three seasons ago when Real had the upper hand in the
ties.
For Manuel Pellegrini, it is another return to a club he managed for
one season between 2009 and 2010.
Both sides are better known for their attacking prowess than their
defensive qualities, which could make the tie an open one from an
attacking point of view.
Bayern Munich will face another defensive team after they overcame
Juventus and Benfica respectively. The Italian and Portuguese sides
relied on their counter attacking strengths, but it was not enough and
Atletico Madrid would likely rely on that to get something from the
tie.
The final of the this seasons' Champions League will take place in
Milan's San Siro stadium in May.
Wednesday, 13 April 2016
Barcelona Eliminated from Champions League
 |
| Photo Credit: Sportsmole |
UEFA champions league holders Barcelona will not be the first side to successfully defend their crown in the present format after they were eliminated at the hands of Spanish rivals Atletico Madrid on Wednesday night. It is the second time in two years that Diego Simeone's side would be eliminating Barcelona at the quarter final stage. The last time they went on to reach the the finals where they lost to Real Madrid in Lisbon in 2014.
Barcelona came into Wednesday's match after they won the first leg 2-1 with a brace from Luis Suarez, but they were aided by the red card Fernando Torres picked up at the Nou Camp after he opened the scoring. Luis Enrique's side had suffered indifferent form in recent weeks after back-to-back league defeats to Real Madrid and Real Sociedad in the Spanish la liga race which has seen their lead cut to just three points with six matches left.
Atletico Madrid on the other had were riding on the crest of cutting the Catalan's lead in the league to three points, and in French forward Antoine Griezmann, they possess a lethal striker who has consistently scored goals all season. So it was no surprise that he opened the scoring for Atletico in the 36th minute to put the capital side ahead on away goals..
At the half hour mark of the match, Barcelona had completed over 120 passes while Atletico had completed just 29 passes. Diego Simeone's side restricted Barcelona to few chances, and the chances that fell to Luis Suarez was spurned by the Uruguyan striker. Griezmann added to his tally when he scored a spot kick in 88th minute to book Atletico's second champions league semi final in three seasons.
It was another disapponting night for Barcelona and Lionel Messi, the mecurial Argentine missed the chance to score his 500th goal for both club and country. The Catalans were overwhelming favourites going into the match, but after Wednesday's defeat they would now have to concentrate on trying to win a second straight league title, while a chance of winning a league and cup double presents itself when they face Athletic Bilbao in the Spanish Cup final.
But for Atletico Madrid, another good season could just end up an excellent one.
Manchester United Book Passage To FA Semi Final
 | |
| Marcus Rashford celebrates his goal against West Ham, photo credit: AP |
Manchester United booked a semi final date with Everton later this month at Wembley after a 2-1 win over West Ham United in a FA Cup quarter final replay at Upton Park. Teenage striker and rising sensation Marcus Rashford opening the scoring with a beautiful curling effort into the bottom corner in 54th minute, then Maroune Fellani put more gloss on the scoreline with another in the 67th minute. James Tomkins pulled a goal back in the 79th minute to give hope for a late fight back for Bilic's side. But there was nothing of such as the last ever FA cup to be played at Upton Park ended in defeat for West Ham. West Ham would be moving to the Olympic Stadium at the start of next season.
 |
| Marcus Rashford curls in the first goal on the night, photo credit: Guardian UK |
The tone of the match was set at the weekend after Manchester United lost 3-0 to Tottenham Hotspur in a league match at White Hart Lane. A match they conceded three goals in six second half minutes. Phil Jones and Micheal Carrick had emphasised the importance of Wednesday's match after an inconsistent season that has left Louis van Gaal consistently under immense pressure. With the FA Cup the last hope to secure a first silverware in three seasons, the win over West Ham puts Manchester United on a pedestal to end the season on a high after what has been another disappointing campaign once again.
For West Ham United, they started the match as favourite and the 3-3 draw against Arsenal last weekend where Andy Carroll got a hat-trick was a boost ahead of the match, but the England international was largely subdued on the night.
However, the same cannot be said of Marcus Rashford who got his sixth goal in eleven matches. the 18 year's old stock continues to rise, and he has been one of the bright spots of an otherwise poor season for Manchester United.
The Old Trafford Club now look to a date at Wembley later this month.
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