Milan hold firm on Luis Fabiano

Milan hold firm on Luis Fabiano
(PA) Wednesday 15 July 2009
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AC Milan are unlikely to make an improved offer for Sevilla forward Luis Fabiano after having their initial bid rejected.

I Rossoneri had hoped to lure the Brazil international to the San Siro but have not met Sevilla's asking price. Milan general manager Adriano Galliani told Corriere dello Sport: "We have not made another offer for Luis Fabiano. The offer made is our initial one and nothing has changed."

The 28-year-old has a £26million release clause and the Italian club are said to be reluctant to pay such a fee. Milan's lawyer and transfer consultant, Leandro Cantamessa, added: "The negotiations for Luis Fabiano have led nowhere.

"Our negotiations have only been with Sevilla and not with the player. Our offer was turned down. I don't know if we will make another offer but I don't think we will."

Luis Fabiano is under contract at Sevilla for two further seasons.

Has La Liga taken over?

Has La Liga taken over?
(FIFA.com) Tuesday 14 July 2009
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It was hard to present an argument against the English Premier League being the strongest championship in the world at the start of 2009. Three of its teams had contested the UEFA Champions League semi-finals for two seasons running; Manchester United were fresh from winning the FIFA Club World Cup; and Cristiano Ronaldo had just been crowned FIFA World Player of the Year.

Half a year has passed thereafter. FIFA.com wants to know if the status of having the sport's best league has also passed to Spain.

There is certainly a strong case. Bareclona usurped United as the European kings, subjecting Sir Alex Ferguson's charges to a tutorial in Rome; several key components in La Roja's team that recently broke international football's longest winning steak are based in La Liga; and, after Real Madrid signed Ronaldo and Kaka to challenge a Barça side headlined by Lionel Messi, many believe the Spanish top flight is home to the three best players in the world.

Sure, the Premier League is not short on quality sides or individuals: United, Liverpool, Chelsea and Arsenal, Wayne Rooney, Steven Gerrard, Michael Essien and Cesc Fabregas, pay testament to this. But has La Liga surpassed it as football's strongest championship?

Click 'Add your comment' to make your opinion known, remembering to keep your posts clean, respectful, on-topic and in English.

Hughes rejects Fergie criticism

Hughes rejects Fergie criticism
(PA) Thursday 16 July 2009
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Manchester City manager Mark Hughes has rebuffed criticism from Sir Alex Ferguson over the club's spending this summer.

City's latest signing was Carlos Tevez, who spent the last two seasons under the Scot at Manchester United, on whom them spent £26.5m.

Ferguson described City's spending this year as "stupid" and "unrealistic". But Hughes said: "We haven't had the benefit of Champions League money over a long period and we haven't had the success to generate the large amounts of money.

"All the squads and managers have spent large amounts to be successful. That has never changed. We are trying to be successful and, to do that, we have to spend money.

"We understand how people may view us at this time, when times are hard financially for a lot of people. But football sometimes bucks that trend, almost always, certainly at the top level."

Hughes also rejected suggestions City had paid over the odds for Tevez. "I think in this current age, and given some of the other transfers this summer, notably (Cristiano) Ronaldo to Real Madrid, Carlos will prove a bargain," he said.

Gerba, from Yaounde to Montreal

Gerba, from Yaounde to Montreal
(FIFA.com) Wednesday 15 July 2009
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Canada have surprised more than a few pundits with their performances so far at the 2009 CONCACAF Gold Cup. Topping a group that also included high-flying Costa Rica, Caribbean champions Jamaica and El Salvador, the Canucks have a new spring in their step. Leading the way for the northerners is their Africa-born ace Ali Gerba, poised to become the country's all-time top scorer.

"It was no surprise to us that we won our group, but it did surprise a lot of other people," said Gerba, who plays for Toronto FC, American Major League Soccer's only Canadian outfit. "People don't really expect a lot from Canada, but we have some very good players and we can go a long way. We knew that."

The muscular forward, who has scored 17 goals in 29 caps, seems to have hit the mark. Canada, shock winners of the 2000 Gold Cup, have been down in the doldrums of late. Coach Stephen Hart took over from Dale Mitchell, who Gerba will unseat as the nation's leading marksman is he scores three more times, just three months ago. Mitchell had been unable to see the side through to the final round of qualifying for the 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa™.
It's my job to score goals. I'm not concerned with breaking records and all that other stuff, I just want to take pressure off my mates.
Canada's Ali Gerba

With the new coach has come a new feel, a new sense of confidence, and it all seems to be flowing to the feet of Gerba, who recovered from a niggling knee injury to take part in the regional showpiece. "I'm happy with the way I'm playing," said the 27-year-old, who scored two match-winning goals in the first round, against Costa Rica and El Salvador. "It's my job to score goals. I'm not concerned with breaking records and all that other stuff, I just want to take pressure off my mates by putting the ball in the net."

Gerba was born in Yaounde, Cameroon, and moved with his family to Montreal when he was 11. He discovered football as a youngster in the streets of west Africa and was surprised to find kids playing the same game thousands of miles away up in the Great White North. However, there was a transition to consider. "That first winter was like something I couldn't believe and I can't describe," Gerba told FIFA.com with a chuckle. "I didn't know it could be that cold. But it warms up nicely in the summers."

His travels did not end then - not by a long shot - as Gerba has lined up for 11 clubs in six countries since 2000, including Norway, Germany and England. He is now back for his second straight Gold Cup, and the pain of the 2-1 semi-final loss to USA in 2007 is still fresh. "That game left a really bad taste in our mouths," he said. "If we keep playing well we could meet them again for a chance to set the record straight."

Gerba was also keen to rubbish some stereotypes about Canadian football. "People have misperceptions about us, like we're a bunch of ice hockey players," he announced. "But we have people from all over the world, and so we have players that are all different and can do different things. I bring a little bit of Africa to the Canada team, and the other guys bring their own flair."
It can only be one game at a time. When you're in the final, then you can think about the trophy because it's only 90 minutes away.
Ali Gerba is not looking past Canada's next game against Honduras

Up next for Gerba and Co is a date with Honduras, the side that knocked them out of contention for South Africa 2010, on 18 July in Philadelphia. "They're a good team, technical and strong," Gerba said. "But we're good too, with a lot of talented players like [Julian] De Guzman, Patrice Bernier, and Atiba Hutchinson. These are the kinds of players who can produce the magical moments that can turn a game."

And when talk finally turns to the ultimate magical moment, recreating the feats of 2000 and being crowned CONCACAF champions, pragmatism creeps into Gerba's words. "It can only be one game at a time," he concluded. "That's what brings you where you want to be. When you're in the final, then you can think about the trophy because it's only 90 minutes away."
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freako
16/07/2009 at 03:04
freako (Australia)
YankeeFan (USA), What do you mean if Australia can compete? We are number 16 in the world, reached the 2006 world cup 2nd round and almost defeated the eventual world champions, we topped our qualifier group ahead of Japan by 5 points with games to spare (conceded only 1 goal scored 12 and had a seven game in a row clean sheet) and we were one of the first teams to reach the 2010 world cup. We can more than compete, we are getting to the stage where we can become a real force. USA also is getting to that stage. We have just been unlucky before but Canada has just not been good enough. They are starting to become a team now but has only reached 1 world cup. They need to test themselves and they are underachieving. What Canada needs is to continue and perform in the world cup qualifiers like they do at the last two Gold Cup tournaments. At the Gold Cup Canada will meet a good Honduras team, can they win? I am not sure. Honduras has been playing quality teams so they may be more match hardened, that is their advantage over Canada. Canada has potential, but when are we ever going to see that potential transformed into a very good team.
cskinner25
16/07/2009 at 01:57
cskinner25 (Canada)
Dwayne De Rosario chose not to play for Canada because he wants TFC to be successful and make the playoffs for the first time. He and Serioux and Jim Brennan were not held back by their teams, they chose not to go. and in my opinion this is our best team playing in the gold cup, with the exception of maybe our keeper. i think those guys on TFC and other teams who didnt want to play are getting old. also i love that we are doing so well, we have a very underrated national team. and WOOOO i can't wait until Ali Gerba starts playing for us!! TFC!!!!
Icepic
15/07/2009 at 22:04
Icepic (Canada)
Canada has not been able to field their best team (Their A squad) if you want to call it that as several (5 members I believe) were not released to play by their various MLS clubs. De Rosario is just an example of one of those players. In fact Gerba may have been made available to the National Squad only due to the fact that he has just been signed by TFC and has not played yet for them.
Gutch220
15/07/2009 at 20:57
Gutch220 (USA)
scullion44, why WOULDN'T Canada be sending their "A" squad? They don't have to rest-up for WCQ's. If they wanted to win AND get up-and-comers experience, they should play the top players and top prospects. 15 out of 23(65%) on the squad have double-digit caps. The other countries have: Panama-25/30(83%) Costa Rica-14/23(60%) Mexico-11/22(50%) USA-14/30(46%) Haiti-10/23(43%) Guadeloupe-5/23(21%) Honduras-5/23(21%) If I were a Canadian fan, I would want the best possible team out there to win since the national team schedule will be full of friendlies the next couple years.
juveRA
15/07/2009 at 20:13
juveRA (Canada)
well i live in Edmonton and i play soccer all-year-round. it is true that it is difficult for Canada to further develop our players throughout the winter because of the brutally cold conditions (especially Edmonton), but at the same time we are building more advanced indoor facilities all the time, so we are definitely making a push for better quality of training throughout winter. As for Ali Gerba, he is the most significant Canadian player next to De Rosario, in terms of Canada becoming a better team and players wanting to play for Canada. Their popularity is making an impact
dubVman
15/07/2009 at 20:11
dubVman (USA)
Silika, Onyewu was not born in Nigeria. His birth certificate is from Maryland. His parents were Nigerian. Onyewu is All-American. Just ask him.
scullion44
15/07/2009 at 18:53
scullion44 (Canada)
The US , yes they have winter albeit not as harsh as ours up here .But the main difference is they have the MONEY , the VENUES , the COACHES , to get better all through the year. We don't have state of the art facilities that would allow our players to grow in the winter the same as they could in the summer unlike the U.S
scullion44
15/07/2009 at 18:52
scullion44 (Canada)
Gobble311 I don't know where you get your information from but Canada does not have their first team
silika
15/07/2009 at 18:23
silika (Nigeria)
Ali Gerba is just the reflection of the strenght of African players who are doing their various adopted countries proud. The list is endless if we are to chronicle the Africans that had done, are doing and are still aspiring to dorn the colors of European countries. This is a clarion call on the authorities over here to be up and doing in their quest to lift the game here.. Imagine the exploits of the Imo state, Nigeria born Oguchi Onyewu in the colors of the United States. Nevertheless I wish Canada well. One thing about Canada is their penchant for rising up when they are ruled out. I am not surprise.
Gobble311
15/07/2009 at 18:15
Gobble311 (USA)
Canada also happens to be the only nation that brought their first team to the Gold Cup. All of the other nations brought a weaker second team. Of course they won their group! I think Canada has a decent team but have yet to prove it against better competition.

Beckham

Beckham: No need for apology
(PA) Wednesday 15 July 2009
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David Beckham has claimed he has nothing to apologise to Los Angeles Galaxy fans for and has been a positive influence on Major League Soccer since his arrival two years ago.

The former England captain returns to MLS action against the New York Red Bulls at Giants Stadium on Thursday night, his first appearance for the Galaxy this season and having caused controversy for extending a short-term, close-season loan to AC Milan last January into a six-month stay which caused him the miss the first half of the US domestic campaign.

The 34-year-old midfielder, the highest paid player in MLS on a five-year deal signed in 2007, insisted he had done everything by the book in terms of honouring his contract and was still dedicated to the Galaxy cause. Beckham makes his first home appearance of the season at the Home Depot Center in Carson, California on Sunday in a friendly against AC Milan and he said he was unsure what the reaction from Galaxy fans to him would be.
I always said to the manager and the players that I would be coming back and maybe one or two didn't believe me but at the end of the day I'm here, I'm committed to the team.
Beckham is back with the Galaxy

Asked if he had anything to apologise for, Beckham said: "No, not at all. I think what you've seen is that I've been very dedicated to the Galaxy, dedicated to the fans. I've always been very positive and very honest with my play here and when I went to Milan I explained to everyone the reason behind me going.

"I always said to the manager and the players that I would be coming back and maybe one or two didn't believe me but at the end of the day I'm here, I'm committed to the team and we'll see what the first game back (in Los Angeles) against Milan, what it will be like," he went on. "But I don't feel like I owe an apology, but I don't know."

Seeking to further balance criticism, raised amongst others by Galaxy team-mate Landon Donovan, that he lacked commitment to his MLS team, Beckham defended his decision to stay in Milan beyond his initial loan deal. "I was given to chance to play for one of the biggest clubs in the world," Beckham said. "If you ask any player in any league in the world, if they were given the chance to finish the season with one of the biggest clubs in the world, they would have said 'Yes'.

"I'm a very honest person. If I didn't want to be here, I wouldn't be here," Beckham added. "I've always been committed to every contract I've ever had, and that hasn't changed. I'm a very committed person. If people want to question my commitment and my professionalism, the fact that I'm willing to travel thousands of miles to play for my country says it all."

Despite failing to lift the Galaxy into the MLS end of season play-offs in each of the last two seasons, Beckham insisted he had been good for the game in the United States, although some of his examples had been in place before his arrival. "What I've done for the league so far has been very successful, I've had a successful effect on the game here," he said. "You know, there are eight new franchises coming into the league, new stadiums going up (and) attendances, wherever we've played as a team.

"If you look at the attendances we have had throughout the seasons, there's not many Premiership (teams) that get the average attendance that we've had, excluding Manchester United and Arsenal and teams like that," Becks continued. "So I think there's been a positive effect. We want to carry on growing this game here, it's the reason that I wanted to be involved in this, but like I said the first day I arrived, this is not going to happen over one or two years.
What I've done for the league so far has been very successful, I've had a successful effect on the game here.
Beckham on his time in LA

"People want quick results but it's never going to happen over one or two years, it's five or 10 years and if I'm not playing by the time it really takes off like we hope and know it will then I'll still be part of this. I'm committed to it and I'm committed to the cause."

Nevertheless, as Beckham seeks to win a place in England manager Fabio Capello's plans for a possible 2010 FIFA World Cup™ finals in South Africa, Beckham refused to rule out a further loan move in the MLS close season to a European club.

"At the moment I'm not even thinking about that," Beckham said. "I'm back with the Galaxy, I have to think about the rest of this season and reaching the goal we want to reach which is the play-offs and hopefully further. Then I'll worry about whatever else happens once the season's ended (in November). But it's important that people realise I am here to play for this team. I am contracted to play for this team and at the moment that's the most important thing."

Gerba, from Yaounde to Montreal

Gerba, from Yaounde to Montreal
(FIFA.com) Wednesday 15 July 2009
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Canada have surprised more than a few pundits with their performances so far at the 2009 CONCACAF Gold Cup. Topping a group that also included high-flying Costa Rica, Caribbean champions Jamaica and El Salvador, the Canucks have a new spring in their step. Leading the way for the northerners is their Africa-born ace Ali Gerba, the country's all-time top scorer.

"It was no surprise to us that we won our group, but it did surprise a lot of other people," said Gerba, who plays for Toronto FC, American Major League Soccer's only Canadian outfit. "People don't really expect a lot from Canada, but we have some very good players and we can go a long way. We knew that."

The muscular forward, who has scored 17 goals in 29 caps, seems to have hit the mark. Canada, shock winners of the 2000 Gold Cup, have been down in the doldrums of late. Coach Stephen Hart took over from Dale Mitchell, who Gerba unseated as the nation's leading marksman, just three months ago. Mitchell had been unable to see the side through to the final round of qualifying for the 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa™.
It's my job to score goals. I'm not concerned with breaking records and all that other stuff, I just want to take pressure off my mates.
Canada's Ali Gerba

With the new coach has come a new feel, a new sense of confidence, and it all seems to be flowing to the feet of Gerba, who recovered from a niggling knee injury to take part in the regional showpiece. "I'm happy with the way I'm playing," said the 27-year-old, who scored two match-winning goals in the first round, against Costa Rica and El Salvador. "It's my job to score goals. I'm not concerned with breaking records and all that other stuff, I just want to take pressure off my mates by putting the ball in the net."

Gerba was born in Yaounde, Cameroon, and moved with his family to Montreal when he was 11. He discovered football as a youngster in the streets of west Africa and was surprised to find kids playing the same game thousands of miles away up in the Great White North. However, there was a transition to consider. "That first winter was like something I couldn't believe and I can't describe," Gerba told FIFA.com with a chuckle. "I didn't know it could be that cold. But it warms up nicely in the summers."

His travels did not end then - not by a long shot - as Gerba has lined up for 11 clubs in six countries since 2000, including Norway, Germany and England. He is now back for his second straight Gold Cup, and the pain of the 2-1 semi-final loss to USA in 2007 is still fresh. "That game left a really bad taste in our mouths," he said. "If we keep playing well we could meet them again for a chance to set the record straight."

Gerba was also keen to rubbish some stereotypes about Canadian football. "People have misperceptions about us, like we're a bunch of ice hockey players," he announced. "But we have people from all over the world, and so we have players that are all different and can do different things. I bring a little bit of Africa to the Canada team, and the other guys bring their own flair."
It can only be one game at a time. When you're in the final, then you can think about the trophy because it's only 90 minutes away.
Ali Gerba is not looking past Canada's next game against Honduras

Up next for Gerba and Co is a date with Honduras, the side that knocked them out of contention for South Africa 2010, on 18 July in Philadelphia. "They're a good team, technical and strong," Gerba said. "But we're good too, with a lot of talented players like [Julian] De Guzman, Patrice Bernier, and Atiba Hutchinson. These are the kinds of players who can produce the magical moments that can turn a game."

And when talk finally turns to the ultimate magical moment, recreating the feats of 2000 and being crowned CONCACAF champions, pragmatism creeps into Gerba's words. "It can only be one game at a time," he concluded. "That's what brings you where you want to be. When you're in the final, then you can think about the trophy because it's only 90 minutes away.

Estudiantes keep the faith

Estudiantes keep the faith
(FIFA.com) Tuesday 14 July 2009
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It was just after midday local time on Saturday 11 July when a crowd of about 200 Estudiantes supporters appeared at the main entrance to their club’s training ground at City Bell. The players had just completed their final open practice session before heading for Brazil, and were surprised to see their exit blocked by a huge crowd of passionate fans wearing the team's red and white colours.

The friendly 'invasion' was a timely show of support for the team ahead of the second leg of the Copa Libertadores final in Belo Horizonte, where awaiting them will be a Cruzeiro side high on confidence after coming away with a 0-0 draw in Argentina. But these fans are oblivious to talk of favourites as they chant out in unison, 'We’re gonna bring the cup home!'

Can they do it?
"Of course we can do it. We know it’ll be difficult, but they must be concerned too as it won’t be easy to beat Estudiantes. The 0-0 draw in the first leg wasn’t a bad result as it means that we're still well capable of winning the tie," said Christian Cellay. And though only a Pincha player since 2008, the defender is one of several squad members who have managed to win over fans with his hard work and dedication.

His defensive companion Rolando Schiava pointed out that Cruzeiro may be a little too confident after their goalless draw in La Plata. "Let’s hope they’re already celebrating, as it'll be to our advantage," he said. "We've shown we’re a hard team to beat, regardless of the opposition. We’ve got this far by remaining level-headed, so we’ve got to take that into the game in Brazil. There are no foregone conclusions – all that matters is what happens on the pitch."
Let's hope they're already celebrating, as it'll be to our advantage. There are no foregone conclusions - all that matters is what happens on the pitch.
Estudiantes defender Rolando Shiava ahead of the second leg of the Libertadores final away to Cruzeiro

Another ‘outsider’ who has managed to win the hearts of the Pincha faithful is Rodrigo Brana, as evidenced by the loud cheers that greet his name when the line-up is announced at the Estadio Unico. "We’re keeping calm as there are still 90 minutes to play and the pressure of playing at home may count against them. That said, the fact that we didn’t win at home doesn’t give us much room for manoeuvre: we have to play intelligent football and take any chances we get," said the 30-year-old.

For forward Gaston Fernandez, one of Estudiantes’s most in-form players, the team’s state of mind will be just as important as their footballing skills in tomorrow's game. "We’re confident of what we can achieve. We’re playing well, with a clear game plan and a common goal. But as Alejandro [Sabella, their coach] says, now more than ever we’ve got to give absolutely everything we've got," he warned.

Fans united behind their team
Saturday's display of unbridled passion outside the Pincha camp was reflected at the ticket offices, as the 3,000 tickets assigned to away fans at the Mineirao stadium were quickly snapped up. "Why am I so sure we’re going to be champions? Because this team have already shown that they can beat any opposition on any ground. It’s going to be tough, but we’ll get the job done in the end," said Rodrigo, who is sporting a jacket, scarf and cap with the club crest and has just got an autograph from Mariano Andujar.

A few meters away, a girl of about 18 excitedly shows her friend a photo she has just managed to get with Leandro Benitez. "El Chino comes in for a lot of criticism but he was born here and loves the club. In Brazil he’ll show them all just how committed he is," she declared, while a nine-year-old boy listens on before adding: "We're better off putting in high crosses as if we're accurate enough we can win with aerial superiority."

Meanwhile, a man with many more years on the clock has also braved the cold to greet the players, a pullover visible under his Estudiantes shirt with Juan Sebastian Veron’s No11 on the back. As he paces up and down, he can be heard singing: "Pincharrata, sos mi enfermedad, cada día, yo te quiero más... le pido a los jugadores, la vida por los colores, lo único que quiero es ver al Pincha campeón de la Libertadores...” (Pincharrata, you're my weakness but every day I love you more... I ask the players to die for these colours, because all I want is the Libertadores...)

They say that faith can move mountains, and with such devoted fans behind them, Estudiantes will be hoping that it can win football matches as well.

City close in on Adebayor

City close in on Adebayor
(PA) Wednesday 15 July 2009
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A work permit for Emmanuel Adebayor appears to be the only thing standing between Manchester City and yet another jaw-dropping £25million signing.

Even before Carlos Tevez put the finishing touches to a five-year deal, rumours were circulating that Adebayor was undergoing a medical after a fee had been agreed with Arsenal. Then it emerged he will attempt to secure a work permit - which should be nothing more than a formality - before heading off to South Africa, via Abu Dhabi for a brief meeting with the Blues owners.

City officials remained silent on the prospect of the transfer being speeded through, although Hughes, given his general reluctance to discuss possible new recruits, rather gave the game away by first confirming talks had taken place, then suggesting they were at quite an advanced stage.
It is not the right time or place to discuss it but yes, there has been contact and possibly there is a deal to be done.
Mark Hughes on Emmanuel Adebayor

"There has been discussions between ourselves and Arsenal," he said. "It is not the right time or place to discuss it but yes, there has been contact and possibly there is a deal to be done. It has not been concluded as we speak. Until it happens, it is not the time or the place to talk about it."

If the deal goes through, it would bring the number of strikers at City's disposal to 10, four of whom would have arrived since January alone, starting with Craig Bellamy. Spending since June 2008 would be touching £200million, with Hughes confirming City are still in the market for top-class talent - presumably defenders now - in the most amazing spending spree English soccer has ever seen.

And while a move for John Terry has not paid dividends just yet, Hughes knows what a capture the England skipper would be. It means City are virtually certain to go back with a third bid for the Chelsea star he first noticed during his own spell at Stamford Bridge well over a decade ago.

"I have had fantastic respect for John Terry since I saw him as a young player when I was at Chelsea," said Hughes. "He is a great player and an outstanding captain. Any manager would covet a player like that. But we have to respect he plays for Chelsea."

Home comforts and derby delight

Home comforts and derby delight
(FIFA.com) Wednesday 15 July 2009
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In many ways, football is a simple game: the team that scores the most goals wins. Yet in every single match, there are intriguing statistical sub-plots that help make the beautiful game the fascinating spectacle that it is. That's why, each week, FIFA.com takes a look at the numbers behind the results.

This week, we celebrate the return of international football to Iraq and pay tribute to USA's impressive home record, while also reflecting on a week to remember for Atletico Mineiro, Oita Trinita and Molde star Mame Biram Diouf.
56

matches and eight years have now passed since USA were last beaten at home in a competitive fixture. The Americans' only loss on US soil during this time came in a 2007 friendly against Brazil, while their last competitive defeat came all the way back on 1 September 2001, when Honduras claimed a 3-2 FIFA World Cup™ qualifying win. The subsequent sequence, which comprises 45 wins and 11 draws, looked to be coming to an end on Sunday, with USA 2-1 down against Haiti heading into the final seconds of injury time. Stuart Holden had other ideas, however, and his stunning last-gasp volley not only salvaged a draw, but also secured top spot in Group B at the 2009 CONCACAF Gold Cup.
14

straight defeats have left Japan's Oita Trinita with the longest losing sequence in world football - and left their erstwhile coach out of a job. Brazilian Pericles Raimundo Oliveira, who led the club to a shock triumph in last season's J.League Cup, yesterday paid the price for a dreadful start to the season that has left Oita anchored to the foot of the table with one win, one draw and 15 defeats from their opening 17 fixtures. While 11 points separate Oita from second-bottom Kashiwa Reysol, the gap at the top is almost as significant, with defending champions Kashima Antlers still eight points clear of the chasing pack.
10

wins and two draws from their last 12 Minas derbies was the record with which Cruzeiro entered Sunday's showdown with old foes Atletico Mineiro. All they needed to do was avoid defeat at home to equal the longest-ever unbeaten record in the fixture, set by Atletico during the 1980s. Instead, with their team selection reflecting a preoccupation with the second leg of the Copa Libertadores final, A Raposa crashed to an emphatic 3-0 loss. O Galo's success was facilitated by Cruzeiro forward Ze Luis, who collected the fastest red card in the history of the Brasileirao after just 12 seconds. Thereafter, Junior, Alessandro and Eder Luis were all on target as Atletico regained pole position in the league and left their fierce rivals teetering on the edge of the relegation zone.
7

years after they last played on home soil, Iraq celebrated their international homecoming in style with resounding back-to-back wins over Palestine. The northern town of Irbil played host to the first of these hugely symbolic matches on Friday, bringing to an end a period of exile that stretched all the way back to a 2-1 win over Syria on 22 July 2002. The Iraqi players also succeeded in producing a performance worthy of this historic occasion, claiming a comprehensive 3-0 win and then bettering that scoreline by putting four unanswered goals past the Palestinians in Bagdad two days later. Over 50,000 fans turned out to watch the latter encounter, leaving no doubt that Iraq's appetite for the beautiful game remains as strong as ever.
4

goals in 27 minutes from Mame Biram Diouf kept Molde firmly in the hunt for the Norwegian title and confirmed their young Senegalese striker's status as a player well worth watching. The tall, pacy 21-year-old has been linked with a string of Europe's top clubs since arriving in Norway in 2007 and his burgeoning reputation will have only been strengthened by the role he played in Molde's 5-2 win over Brann. Diouf, who is the Norwegian top flight's top scorer this season with 12 goals, broke the deadlock after just 22 seconds, completed his hat-trick inside nine minutes and effectively ended the match as a contest just 18 minutes later. The win kept Molde four points off the pace in the Tippeligaen title race, although leaders Rosenborg have a game in hand and remain unbeaten after 17 rounds of fixtures.

Elia completes Hamburg move

Elia completes Hamburg move
(PA) Monday 6 July 2009
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Hamburg have completed the signing of striker Eljero Elia from Twente. The 22-year-old has signed a five-year deal with the Bundesliga club, with the transfer fee reported to be in the region of €9m.

Elia was coveted by a number of clubs in Germany and the Netherlands, after netting nine goals in 34 league games for Twente last season. But he is happy to have signed for a team expected to challenge for the Bundesliga title next season under new coach Bruno Labbadia.

"HSV is a super club," Elia told Hamburg's official website. "I had a good feeling from the very beginning and really wanted to join them. I am delighted that the transfer is now done and dusted."
Eljero has tremendous potential. I am convinced that he will delight many people with his speed and dazzling skill in one-on-one situations.
Hamburg coach Bruno Labbadia on the club's new signing Eljero Elia

Labbadia was equally enthusiastic when discussing the new arrival. "Eljero has tremendous potential. I am convinced that he will delight many people with his speed and dazzling skill in one-on-one situations," he said.

"What impresses me is that he decided to join HSV despite several other clubs wanting to sign him."

Elia is the third new signing at the Nordbank Arena, following experienced midfielder Ze Roberto and Robert Tesche to the club.

Moratti: We don't need Chelsea pair

Moratti: We don't need Chelsea pair
(PA) Monday 6 July 2009
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Inter Milan have cooled their interest in Chelsea duo Deco and Ricardo Carvalho.

The Portugal internationals have been strongly linked with the Serie A champions having both worked previously under Nerazzurri coach Jose Mourinho.

But Inter president Massimo Moratti believes the current squad is strong enough without bringing in two players in their 30s.

"Deco and Carvalho? They are two champions but at this time I don't feel there's a need to buy them," he told La Gazzetta dello Sport.

Both Deco and Carvalho struggled for form and fitness at Stamford Bridge last season and it remains to be seen if they fit into the plans of new Blues manager Carlo Ancelotti.

Inter, meanwhile, have been fairly active in the close season, bringing in Brazilian midfielder Thiago Motta and Argentina forward Diego Milito from Genoa, with a raft of players going in the opposite direction.

But Mourinho will be more concerned with retaining the services of some of his star players, with Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Maicon reported targets for clubs in England and Spain.

Dunga pilots return to pole

Dunga pilots return to pole
(FIFA.com) Friday 3 July 2009
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An overwhelming majority of Brazil's all-time greatest sportsmen were footballers. One notable exception within the country's hallowed, crowded pantheon is Ayrton Senna, a motor racing driver extraordinaire whose flair and class echoed that of Garrincha, Pele, Rivelino, Zico et al.

Senna tragically passed away in May 1994, his loss reverberating across the country one month before the USA staged the 15th FIFA World Cup™. A Seleção consequently vowed to win the competition in his honour, and when captain Dunga duly raised aloft the revered trophy, his team-mates uplifted a banner which read: 'Senna, we accelerated together. The tetra is ours.'

Brazil had assumed pole position, something for which Senna was renowned, on the FIFA/Coca-Cola World Ranking 12 days before his death, and consolidated it inside the Rose Bowl, Pasadena. It put them en route to hegemony on the global ladder. Indeed, in the 140 months that predated February 2007, Brazil spent just 14 beneath the summit - all during France's reign from May 2001.

Brazilians came to view the most exalted seat at the table as their own personal property, their throne. Having watched fierce enemies Argentina enjoy a nine-month stay at the Ranking's apex, they then looked on with disdain as Spain forcibly snatched control in July 2008, courtesy of their UEFA EURO 2008 triumph, and swiftly proceeded to put distance between themselves and their rivals.

Heading into the FIFA Confederations Cup South Africa 2009, La Roja held a sizeable 319-point advantage over runners-up the Netherlands and a cushion of 473 over Brazil, in fifth. Capturing the title would have strengthened Spain's grip on first place, and they appeared on course to do this after a group stage in which they defeated New Zealand 5-0, Iraq 1-0 and South Africa 2-0 to equal Brazil's world record of 35 games without defeat, set an unprecedented 15-match winning streak, and ease through to the semi-finals. There, however, Vicente Del Bosque's charges lost 2-0 to USA.

Brazil swaggered through Group B, a 4-3 reverse of Egypt preceding 3-0 wins over the Americans and Italy. The five-time world champions then put paid to South Africa's chances in the semi-finals, before staging a heroic fightback to edge USA 3-2 in a breathtaking decider.
I'm proud of my side's progress. Winning the Confederations Cup was a great achievement but it's imperative we carry on working calmly.
Brazil coach Dunga

Brazil had begun June by defeating Uruguay away and Paraguay at home, 4-0 and 2-1 respectively, to race to the top of South American qualifying for the 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa™. Their exploits at the Festival of Champions meant they finished the month boasting a 100 per cent record from seven matches, and when July's FIFA/Coca-Cola World Ranking was published on Wednesday, three days after Lucio lifted his country's third FIFA Confederations Cup trophy, its most successful team ended their longest period away from the top.

Dunga's side will next face Estonia in Tallinn on 12 August, on a sequence of eight straight victories and 16 games without defeat, during which time they have scored 39 times and conceded just nine. This form has been indebted to goalkeeper Julio Cesar, right-wingback Maicon, attacking midfielder Kaka, and forwards Robinho and Luis Fabiano, and these players are already focusing on September's South Africa 2010 preliminaries away to Argentina and at home to Chile.

"I'm proud of my side's progress," said Dunga. "They are high quality players, very committed professionals and they are true men. Every day they play, they give of their best and I am very happy for them. Winning the Confederations Cup was a great achievement but it's imperative we carry on working calmly and learn from our past mistakes."

Kaka, the adidas Golden Ball recipient at South Africa 2009, added: "We must avoid any euphoria because that sort of thing hindered our preparations at the last World Cup. But this is a new group of players with a different attitude. The players are hungry for success and willing to give everything to achieve it. Brazil always want to be the best in the world."

That is a status which, at least for now, belongs to A Seleção. Fifteen years after Dunga the player helped kick-start Brazil's enduring rule atop the FIFA/Coca-Cola World Ranking, Dunga the coach has restored them to their habitual placement. Senna, a football enthusiast and the king of pole position in his own discipline, would be proud of the man who led his tribute in California.

utch on a charge

utch on a charge
(FIFA.com) Thursday 4 June 2009
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Netherlands coach Bert van Marwijk has every reason to be pleased with his team at the present time. The Dutch have bounced back in impressive style from an unlucky exit at UEFA EURO 2008 in Austria and Switzerland with a string of consistently high-quality displays.

The men in orange last lost back in September 2008, a 2-1 friendly defeat to Australia in Eindhoven. Since then, Van Marwijk's men have won six and drawn one of their last seven matches. That striking record has now made an impact on the latest edition of the FIFA/Coca-Cola World Ranking.

Best since 2005
In the new listing for June, Rafael van der Vaart and Co have leapfrogged Germany to go second for the first time since October 2005. The only team ahead of the eight-time FIFA World Cup™ participants are reigning European champions Spain.

In the course of the last month, Van Marwijk's side earned 82 ranking points, more than any other FIFA member association, and now boast 1,442 points in total. The Dutch are still a daunting 319 points off the Iberian leaders, but have moved 64 clear of the third-placed Germans.
I do think we're one of the best in the world right now. But more and more teams can say that, as recent tournaments have shown.
Joris Mathijsen

A healthy dose of confidence and self-belief underpins the Netherlands' recent rich run of form. "We're among the best teams in the world," team captain Giovanni van Bronckhorst recently declared in a FIFA.com interview.

Central defender Joris Mathijsen similarly believes in the quality liberally distributed throughout the squad, but warned his team-mates not to think they can rest on their laurels, as he told FIFA.com. "I do think we're one of the best in the world right now. But more and more teams can say that, as recent tournaments have shown. You have to prove yourself time and time again," explained Mathijsen, one of three ever-presents in his side's FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign alongside Van Bronckhorst and Mark van Bommel.

Huntelaar and Kuyt impress
This coming Saturday, 6 June 2009, the Elftal can harvest the first fruits of their commanding run of results. Victory over Iceland in Reykjavik would see the Dutch become the first European nation to qualify for the 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa™, handing them the luxury of extra time to prepare for next year's global showcase tournament.

Up to now, Van Marwijk's men have not put a foot wrong in qualifying, taking the maximum 15 points from five matches with 12 goals for and just one against. That record includes victories away to FYR Macedonia and Norway, but the captain remains cautious: "It could still all go wrong. We won't celebrate until we're mathematically certain of qualifying," Van Bronckhorst said.

Picking up where they left off at last year's EURO, the Dutch favour an exhilarating brand of fast-paced attacking football. The goal-getting skills of Klaas-Jan Huntelaar and Dirk Kuyt have played a significant role. The Real Madrid and Liverpool strikers have three goals apiece, thus accounting for half their country's total so far.

If former Borussia Dortmund boss Van Marwijk can maintain his side's drive, motivation, creativity and belief, the Dutch will go to the south of Africa next year as one of the favourites to lift the coveted trophy. After finishing runners-up in both 1974 and 1978, the latest generation in orange are desperate to go one better. As Mathijsen said: "We want to get as far as we can, preferably as far as the Final, of course. But qualifying is the highest priority for now."

Libya's sights on 2014

Libya's sights on 2014
(FIFA.com) Monday 22 June 2009
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Though mightily close to winning the 1982 CAF African Cup of nations on home soil, when they were beaten 7-6 on penalties by Ghana in the final, Libya have not come near to matching that achievement since.

Indeed, Libya have been to just one edition of the African showpiece since that narrow defeat. That absence from African football's top table was in evidence at the 2006 finals in neighbouring Egypt, with the Libyans making the short trip home after finishing bottom of Group A.

However, things have begun to look up for the country as a footballing force after they were designated as hosts for the 2014 edition of the continental championship. This month, the received a further boost with an impressive 14-place rise to number 69 in the FIFA Coca-Cola World Ranking, a jump that, though largely down to the devaluation of previous negative results, is encouraging nonetheless. They now lie just eight spots behind their best-ever ranking of 61, which they achieved in November 2004, and are now the 16th-highest ranked African team (up from 20th).

And though already eliminated from Africa Zone qualifying for the 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa™, the Libyans have taken the opportunity to focus on building a side able to compete with the continent's finest in five years' time.

Performances were markedly improved following the appointment of veteran coach Faouzi Benzarti, and Libya were only edged out on goal difference on the final matchday of the first round of African Zone qualifying. Unfortunately, the team were delivered a heavy blow shortly afterwards when Benzarti was enticed back to his native Tunisia to take the helm at champions Esperance.

A new supremo has yet to be named but his mandate is clear: qualification for the 2012 African Cup of Nations to be held in Equatorial Guinea and Gabon. The new man in charge will also be expected to take steps towards ensuring Libya can and will challenge for the title as hosts in 2014.

On the domestic front, the league title eventually went to heavyweights Al Ittihad, but only after a tense tussle with rivals Al Ahli Benghazi and Al Ahli Tripoli, who finished second and third respectively. It is these three clubs which provide the bulk of the players in the Libyan national squad, though there are also a number of expatriates plying their trade at clubs in the Middle East.

In recent years, Libya outfit have also proved they can be force on the continental stage, particularly in 2007. Al Ittihad went all the way to the last four of that year's CAF African Champions League where they were beaten 1-0 on aggregate by Egyptian superpowers Al Ahly, six-time winners of the prestigious competition.

Brazil knock Spain off top spot

Brazil knock Spain off top spot
(FIFA.com) Wednesday 1 July 2009
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Victory on all fronts for Brazil: after winning the FIFA Confederations Cup in South Africa, the Seleção have regained the top spot in the FIFA/Coca-Cola World Ranking, thus relegating European champions Spain (2nd, down 1) to second place. The South Americans last topped the ranking in August 2007, a position to which they have climbed six times in the history of the ranking.

The Netherlands (3rd, down 1), Italy (4th, unchanged) and Germany (5th, down 2), occupy the next three places, but are some distance behind the leading duo. Russia (6th, up 3) have overtaken England (7th, down 1) and Argentina (8th, down 1), achieving their best position since August 1997 in the process.

Of the other countries that took part in the FIFA Confederations Cup South Africa 2009, finalists the USA (12th, up 2), Egypt (38th, up 2) and hosts South Africa (70th, up 2) have also progressed up the ranking. Egypt's improved position despite their early exit from the tournament is due to their 1-0 victory over world champions Italy, which scored very highly in terms of ranking points. Meanwhile, disappointing performances by Iraq (94th, down 17) and New Zealand (100th, down 18) caused them to lose ground.

In other news, Algeria (47th, up 19) and Tunisia (49th, up 2) have climbed into the top 50 at the expense of Burkina Faso (51st, down 1) and Finland (52nd, down 3). Furthermore, the following teams have achieved their best position since the ranking was introduced in 1993: Australia (16th, up 13), Gabon (30th, up 18), Grenada (88th, up 14), Montenegro (98th, up 12) and Antigua and Barbuda (105th, up 9).

In the last four weeks, a total of 119 senior international matches were played: 16 FIFA Confederations Cup matches, 67 FIFA World Cup™ qualifying matches and 36 friendlies. This brings the total matches played this year to 406. The many matches played and the devaluation of matches at UEFA EURO 2008 are the main reasons for the many changes in position in this edition of the ranking.

The next FIFA/Coca-Cola World Ranking will be published on 5 August 2009.

Mexico, Guadeloupe open wel

Mexico, Guadeloupe open well
(PA) Monday 6 July 2009
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Goals from Luis Noriega and Pablo Barrera secured a 2-0 win for Mexico over Nicaragua in their opening game of Group C of the CONCACAF Gold Cup.

Mexico opened the scoring in the 45th minute when Jose Martinez broke into the left side of the area but tumbled under a challenge from David Solorzano and the referee pointed to the spot. Noriega stepped up to fire home from the spot.

Javier Aguirre's side dominated the second half and had several chances to add a second but on each occasion they found goalkeeper Carlos Mendieta in good form. However, Barrera finally broke Mendieta's resolve when he volleyed home from Alberto Medina's cross. Arsenal striker Carlos Vela limped off in the 11th minute with an ankle injury

In the other game in the group, Loic Loval scored one and set-up the other as Guadeloupe edged Central American champions Panama 2-1. Guadeloupe took the lead in the 33rd minute after Armando Gun had failed to clear Aurelian Capoue's cross and Loval pounced to poke home from close range.

David Fleurival added a second shortly before half time with a stunning strike from 40 yards that gave goalkeeper Jaime Penedo no chance. Panama came out fighting in the second half and Nelson Barahona reduced the deficit in the 68th minute when he volleyed home. However they were unable to find an equaliser as Guadeloupe defended well for the win.

Capello: Injuries concern me

Capello: Injuries concern me
(FIFA.com) Monday 6 July 2009
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After taking on the role of England coach in January 2008, Fabio Capello's record has been impressive, winning 12 of his 15 games in charge. Seven of those victories have come in their seven qualifiers for the 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa™, results which have left the Three Lions in with a chance of sealing their place as early as 9 September, when Croatia, their nemesis in the preliminaries for UEFA EURO 2008, travel to Wembley.

The former Roma, AC Milan and Real Madrid coach sat down with FIFA.com in Johannesburg for an exclusive chat, which centred on his reasons for travelling to South Africa during the FIFA Confederations Cup, plans for getting the England team ready for next year's FIFA World Cup, and worries that injuries to his key players could hinder their bid to win the ultimate prize on 11 July 2010.

During the interview, which is available on video by clicking on the link on the right, Capello also considers which of his current players have the potential to follow in his footsteps and why he feels freshening up the squad could be the way to keep players motivated and focused ahead of next year's finals.

FIFA.com: Fabio, why are you here in South Africa?
Fabio Capello: I'm here because we hope that we'll be back next year and we're looking to find a place that we'll use. I've also been able to watch a few games, which is very useful for me. When you watch a match on TV, it's not the same. When you're at a match yourself, it's easier to see the position of the players and their aptitude.

In terms of a possible base for the England team for next year's finals, what exactly are you looking for?
We're looking for a place keeping altitude, plus the standard of the pitches and the hotel in mind. They're the three things that are the most important to us.

Have you had the opportunity to visit any famous places in South Africa?
No, it's just been a case of looking at places for the next World Cup, but it's the fourth time I've visited South Africa.

Having attended a few matches at the FIFA Confederations Cup, what type of experience do you think England will have in the country next year?
First of all, I hope the fans will be with us! That's the most important thing. But South Africa is an exciting country - they will find a lot of fresh things to do.

In the history of the FIFA World Cup, Brazil are the only team to win a tournament in a different part of the world from where they're from. Do you think England have the potential to buck that trend?
In the history of football, Brazil are the best team in the world; the number of World Cups they've won shows that. It won't be easy, but we have a chance. I always try to win with my teams. My mentality is such that when you play against any team, you play to win. I hope we can do it.
It won't be easy, but we have a chance. I always try to win with my teams. My mentality is such that when you play against any team, you play to win.
Capello on challenging for the FIFA World Cup

Who else would you say are genuine contenders?
I can't see the future and we don't know which teams will be affected by injury. If some teams are missing their important players, they won't be the same. Every team has their best players and they are vitally important for success. You can plan all the tactics, create a great team spirit, but a team's best players, the ones that can provide something extra, are the ones who can decide a match.

Obviously, in terms of the increased altitude, acclimatisation will be crucial. Are you considering taking the squad to a training camp in a neighbouring country ahead of next year's finals, and do you have any plans?
We're looking at the prospect of going to Austria ahead of the next World Cup, before coming to South Africa a week before the tournament begins. We won't have any problems with jet lag and in terms of getting used to the climate here, a week will be enough.

Over the years, you have won an impressive number of titles in your first year in charge of various clubs. What do you do to accelerate the process and get immediate results?
The most important thing is to understand where you're working, the attitude of the players, the attitude the country or the attitude of the city. For example, in Milan people are more reserved, while in Rome people are more passionate. You can do different things, but you must understand the mentality of the place. Then you do what you think will help the players and the team. But I think I've been successful because I've worked with really good players. We've always been united and worked together.

The team is being seen to have made improvements and achieved good results since you took charge. Where do you feel there is still work to be done?
When we started, during the first training session, I was very happy. But after the first game against Switzerland, I understood why the England team had a problem. The problem was Wembley. The problem was no confidence. The problem was the group. There were a lot of problems, but I've been working on these things and the result has been OK so far.

Do you think that the fast-paced nature of English club football has proved to be a problem on the international stage, particularly at tournaments?
No, not really. Every country has a different style. The Spanish pass the ball, the Brazilians play with fantasy and the English are stronger. The four best teams in England all play with a different style. They don't use long balls, but a lot of passes - a perfect mix of the English and Mediterranean styles.

England are currently sixth in the FIFA/Coca-Cola World Ranking. Do you think that this is an accurate reflection of the team's standing in world football at present?
We're happy with the current position, because when I started we were 12th. But the final results that we achieve are more important than where we are in the Ranking.

The country has a history of qualifying for major tournaments, but not reaching semi-finals and finals. How are you planning to take them further?
I'd like to answer that question after a successful World Cup next year.

How do you intend to keep the players motivated and focused on the importance of international football between the time you qualify and next June?
It's a difficult job for us. You always have to be focused, you have to study the season and the time you're playing the first game [of the World Cup]. It's not easy, because sometimes at the end of the season the players are tired, so you have to find a way of preparing that leaves the players fit and ready for the first game.

If you did qualify early, say after the next round of qualifiers in September, would you experiment with your team in the international matches that followed or do you think you would prefer to keep a settled line-up?
It's possible that we will experiment with the line-up, because that's really important. I did it in the last two [away] friendly games against Germany and Spain and it could be the same for those games.
Avoiding injuries is really, really important. Some players are the base of the team.
Capello on injuries

At recent tournaments, England have lost key players at key times and that has thrown them off course. Are you confident England have the strength-in-depth to cope with such potential losses?
I don't know what will happen. Avoiding injuries is really, really important. Some players are the base of the team. I hope that they will be fit. I remember I played a Champions League final without four key players through injury and I lost. I hope that I won't experience the same here.

If you consider England's youth teams, the U-21s have done well in Sweden, the U-20s have qualified for the FIFA U-20 World Cup in Egypt, and the U-19s have reached the EURO finals in Ukraine. In terms of their development, how important is it that young players have taken part in these events?
They are really important. When you play at any level in England, you play against good teams, but not the same level as you would do in international games against international teams. You also start to understand what it means to wear the England shirt - and that's really important. As I said before, the academies are working very well in England and we can see the results. I'm very lucky, because I've had the opportunity to look at Arsenal's academy where the England team train and their work is incredibly good. It's a very important example for the other English academies. I'm very interested in the academies of the clubs in England, but they all seem to be working very well. I'm very, very happy about the future of England and I think it will be better.

In terms of England's future beyond 2010, are you excited by the young talents which are coming through?
There are some players who played in Sweden [at the UEFA U-21 European Championship] who have already played with us: Theo Walcott, Joe [Hart], [James] Milner, they are able to play with us. In the future, I think that we will have new players with us. I always follow the U-21 squad and Stuart Pearce, who is a really good manager, is always with me. We've spoken a lot about new players and sometimes when he's said, 'Fabio, he is good,' I've followed his advice.

Recently Stuart Pearce has said that he's 'inept' compared to you. I'm sure you disagree but what do you think he and the likes of Ray Clemence are learning from working with you?
I learn from them and they learn from me. I always want to stay humble and keep on learning. Stuart Pearce and Ray Clemence are really important for me in my job with the England team. They were really important players in England's history and they're really fantastic coaches.

You recently highlighted Sir Bobby Charlton as being your favourite English player. In 40 years time do you think the England coach might be saying the same about David Beckham, given his appeal as a player and a personality?
I was a midfielder and loved the movement of Bobby Charlton; his long passes, his shots. I'll always remember that. I don't know what the future will hold for David.

Finally, in terms of the players you've worked with since you've been England coach, which do you feel have the potential to become successful coaches?
Usually it's the midfielders. When you look at Italy and the successful Italian managers, they're usually midfielders. I don't know whether [Frank] Lampard, Gareth [Barry], [Owen] Hargreaves and Steven Gerrard will become managers, but when you're a midfielder you see the game from an attacking and defensive point of view - and it's for this reason why I think they can understand tactics easier.

Palestine to play in Iraq, China

Palestine to play in Iraq, China
(AFP) Sunday 5 July 2009
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The Palestinian national team will travel to northern Iraq for a friendly on Friday followed by a visit to China, according to Jibril Rajub, head of the Palestinian football federation.

The two teams will play in the northern city of Arbil in the autonomous Kurdish region of Iraq and hope to schedule a second match in Baghdad.

After visiting Iraq, the Palestinian team will head to China for a friendly on 18 July.

Rajub also noted that the team's new coach Musa Bazaz, 52, a French citizen of Algerian descent, would arrive in the West Bank on Monday.

Rajub has been actively promoting football since becoming federation head in May 2008. Last year under his leadership the federation financed the construction of a stadium in the West Bank town of Al-Ram outside Jerusalem and the team played its first ever home match against Jordan in October.

Palestine has been affiliated to FIFA since 1998.

Volunteers excited for 2010

Volunteers excited for 2010
(LOC) Monday 6 July 2009
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South Africa's 'unsung heroes' came out in their numbers for one last time as volunteers from across South Africa rejoiced at their significant contribution to South Africa and the success of the FIFA Confederations Cup.

Although it was a time to celebrate as volunteers from the four host cities attended 'thank you' lunches over the weekend, next year's 2010 FIFA World Cup™ was definitely on their minds.

With volunteer applications opening on 20 July, the selfless FIFA Confederations Cup volunteers are more than willing to come back for Africa's first FIFA World Cup. With 15,000 volunteers now required, they are encouraging their fellow South Africans to sign up as well.

"The only thing I can say is, please apply, you will have such a great time and will definitely not regret the choice. During my time as a volunteer I gained a lot of experience having to deal with people from different cultures and backgrounds. I have since gained a lot of confidence from this," said Violet Letsoalo who worked as a spectator services volunteer.

For Roshan Bhana, who worked in the accreditation department, being a volunteer is all about serving his country and he hopes other South Africans will put their hands up and become volunteers on 20 July. "Individuals make this country, to serve your country selflessly is the best thing that you can do. I would recommend it to anyone. Being part of the tournament was extraordinary."
When people ask me what will be the difference between this World Cup and the one in Germany I tell them it will be the people.
Dr Danny Jordaan

Tshidiso Ntshabele cannot stress enough how important he feels it is for his fellow South Africans to sign up as volunteers for the 2010 FIFA World Cup.

"Africa as a continent proved to the whole world that what we can do and I am very proud of myself for the contribution I have made," said Ntshabele who hopes to be a volunteer again next year.

For the man at the helm of the 2010 FIFA World Cup campaign, Dr Danny Jordaan, the volunteers have shown the world what South Africa, and indeed Africa, is all about.

"It is those that have less that give more and those that have nothing give the most. If you go around the country you will see this spirit of community and this is the essence of what kind of South Africa we want to build from this. This country will be great if more people like you continue to do this, to contribute to the success of the country," said Jordaan who attended both the Johannesburg and the Tshwane/Pretoria volunteer lunches.

For Jordaan it is the volunteers, as the public face of the 2010 FIFA World Cup, that will make the tournament a huge success.

"When people ask me what will be the difference between this World Cup and the one in Germany I tell them it will be the people. In Germany there was a programme to teach the volunteers to smile, I said we do not need that. When we are born, we are born with a smile."