Bartlett shows off cool Cape Town

Bartlett shows off cool Cape Town
(FIFA.com) Thursday 26 November 2009

Ask former South Africa football legend Shaun Bartlett about Cape Town and you are likely to get a short, simple answer: “It’s a lekker place, really lekker.”

When you get to Cape Town, “lekker” is one of the words you will hear being bantered about quite a bit by locals in the streets. It is a slang word borrowed from Afrikaans, one of the local languages. In lose translation, it means “cool” or “nice.” So, there is no irony in the fact that Bartlett uses this phrase to describe this city, a place regarded as one of the prime tourist in the world, boasting iconic places like Table Mountain, Waterfront and some of the finest wineries in Southern Africa.
Whenever I’m in Cape Town, I like relaxing and I usually spend my time in the morning enjoying the early sunrise breeze or talking a walk around. Then I make my way to the Market Square.
Bartlett describes the start of a typical day in Cape Town

“In summer, Cape Town is like Miami,” he quips, obviously borrowing from his experience when he was playing in the United States’ Major League Soccer for Colorado Rapids. A proud Capetonian, Bartlett is a man who reached the pinnacle in football achievements in South Africa. For more than a decade, he spearheaded the national team’s attack and was the nation’s all-time top scorer until his fellow Cape Townian Benni McCarthy took over the mantle. Bartlett was the first and still the only South African to score a brace in a FIFA World Cup™ game - at France 1998 against Saudi Arabia in the group stages.

Now Bartlett, whose illustrious playing career included a spell with Charlton Athletic in England and FC Zurich, is retired and enjoying life after football as a television analyst in South Africa. For someone who has travelled the world extensively, Bartlett has met many different people from different cultures. So, it is natural to turn to him for advice on what will turn on visitors to Cape Town. While avoiding being lyrical, the retired striker goes for conservative options on his attempts to show “the other side” of Cape Town. He was born in Facreton – a place between Cape Town city and the notorious Cape Flats, and he managed to craft his way to the top. He is one of the city’s true success stories.

Shaun takes FIFA.com on a small tour of Cape Town as he sets the table for the visitors, who will be flocking to the city for the 2010 FIFA World Cup Final Draw at the Mother City on 4 December. “For many people, whenever they think about Cape Town, they think about Table Mountain, Robben Island and Waterfront. These are nice places, but there is more to the city. When someone lands in Cape Town, they will be greeted with great weather and sunny conditions, these are the first impressions of the city. The weather is perfect in summer, more especially between December and February.”

Shaun's morning routine
“Whenever I’m in Cape Town, I like relaxing and I usually spend my time in the morning enjoying the early sunrise breeze or talking a walk around. Then I make my way to the Market Square. I know that a lot of people will go for places like Waterfront, but I prefer Market Square, it has a different vibe, it’s different from other popular destinations in Cape Town, but it’s a nice place. You will also find lots of shops and get an opportunity to mingle with the locals.

Mid-day meal
“I love seafood, so naturally I will look for the nearest seafood restaurant. In Cape Town, you are spoilt with choices on this one, so no need to worry. This is the only place in the country where you will find good quality seafood. But I don’t have one favourite restaurant, I’m an adventurous person, so I like going around and tasting different foods. Afterwards, I will make my way to Bloubergstrand to relax and explore nature. Another option will be to visit some of our wine farms, a few minutes away from town. The Stellenbosch area is famous for this.”

Afternoon and evening
“I will spend my afternoon along the beach, in places like Camps Bay or any of our beautiful beaches. I love hanging around the beach and there is no better feeling that being in Cape Town along the beach while watching sunset. It’s a special feeling that I cannot describe in words. I’m not really into nightlife; I’m getting a bit old now (laughs), so I’m not the best person to talk about nightlife. If you had asked me few years ago, maybe I would have helped there. But Long Street is probably the best place to start looking,” he concludes with a big smile.

Women's round-up: November 2009

Women's round-up: November 2009
(FIFA.com) Friday 27 November 2009
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Another big month of women’s football, both internationally and domestically, was crowned by the meeting of Germany and USA before a bumper crowd in Augsburg. There has also been absorbing action across the globe on the club scene, and as always FIFA.com reviews the latest news in women’s football.

Club football
Potsdam on top again
The German Bundesliga is proving to be an intriguing see-saw battle for supremacy, with a variety of clubs staking a claim for top spot in recent weeks. Former UEFA Cup winners Duisburg could only manage a 1-1 draw on home soil against Saarbrücken last weekend, allowing reigning champions FFC Turbine Potsdam to move into pole position. The club from the Berlin region secured an impressive 4-1 home victory against former big gun FFC Frankfurt, with young German striking sensation Anja Mittag collecting a hat-trick. Traditional giants Frankfurt are struggling in fourth place, having already lost three matches this campaign.

Chelsea replicates men’s success
In recent seasons, Everton have been the only club threatening to challenge Arsenal's monopoly in England, but the current season is providing a different scenario. Chelsea overcame a struggling Everton recently in a 5-3 thriller and currently sit atop the ladder, though London rivals Arsenal still have a number of matches in hand. Sunderland are also enjoying a stint in the limelight and are behind Chelsea only on goal difference, though the Northerners have played three matches more.

Mariners set sail for title
In the Australian W-League, the Central Coast Mariners are hoping to achieve a stunning title swoop entering the penultimate round of action. The unfancied Mariners have a one-point lead on the star-studded Brisbane Roar, even though the reigning champions have not tasted defeat for 18 matches. Little-known striker Michelle Heyman has led the way for the Mariners, scoring ten goals in just eight matches, ably supported by USA duo Lydia Vandenbergh and Kendall Fletcher. Sydney FC are also worth watching, as they sit just two points off the pace ahead of the four-team finals series.

National teams
World titans clash
Late last month, Germany hosted USA in a titanic meeting between the combined winners of the past three editions of the FIFA Women’s World Cup. The US will be hoping the result is a positive omen ahead of Germany 2011, with the Stars and Stripes prevailing 1-0 thanks to a first-half goal from prolific striker Abby Wambach. The match in the southern city of Augsburg attracted a bumper crowd of 28,367

Oranje in trouble
The Netherlands have experienced a major setback in the latest European qualifiers for Germany 2011, with Vera Pauw's ambitious side only managing a 1-1 draw on home soil against Belarus, following a 3-0 reversal in Norway a month earlier. Also facing difficulties are Belgium and Ukraine, who have both dropped a number of points. On the other side of the ledger Russia, Finland, Spain and France have built up momentum and are on track for qualification.

Asian teams a step closer
The draw for one of the world’s most competitive qualifying zones took place last weekend, with Asian nations now knowing what stands between them and a ticket to Germany 2011. Three teams will progress from the eight-nation tournament which will be played in China next May. Group A features DPR Korea, Japan, Myanmar and Thailand, while Group B pits together China, Australia, Vietnam and Korea Republic. Asia features two teams in the top ten of the FIFA Women's World Ranking, Japan and Korea DPR, with China and Australia ranked 12th and 14th respectively.

Japanese starlet crowned
Japan prodigy Mana Iwabuchi was named the AFC Women’s Youth Player of the Year earlier this week, ahead of Korea Republic pair Ji So-Yun and Kim Da-Hye. The diminutive NTV Beleza forward won for the second year running after also being named the tournament’s best player at the AFC U-19 Women’s Championship in August.

Development
Another busy month in FIFA’s development activities included two consultancies in Qatar and Jordan aimed at helping the respective Member Associations better organise women’s football. November also witnessed a national course take place in Moldova as well as a regional course in Trinidad & Tobago that, as part of the build-up to next year’s FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup, involved 14 Member Associations from the Caribbean region. Yet perhaps the highlight of the month was a Women’s Football Development seminar for African nations, which ran from 19 to 22 November in Tunisia. Numerous prominent figures in African women’s football were present as 12 Member Associations came together for the first seminar of its kind in North Africa to consider how best to continue the fine recent progress made in developing the female game in the mother continent.

The quote
"I can live with the result because I cannot remember when we have dominated the United States as clearly as tonight,” German coach Silvia Neid following Germany’s home 1-0 defeat to USA.

FIFA Executive Committee to meet on Robben Island

FIFA Executive Committee to meet on Robben Island
(FIFA.com) Wednesday 25 November 2009
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The FIFA Executive Committee, chaired by President Joseph S. Blatter, will convene on Robben Island (South Africa) on Thursday, 3 December 2009.

The Executive will receive reports about the 2009 FIFA competitions held to date (FIFA U-20 World Cup Egypt 2009, FIFA U-17 World Cup Nigeria 2009, FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup Dubai 2009) and updates on upcoming FIFA events, including the FIFA Club World Cup UAE 2009 and the FIFA World Player Gala 2009.

Of course, particular emphasis will be placed on the next day’s Final Draw for the 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa™, which will kick off in Cape Town at 19.00 (local time).

Moreover, a number of reports will be received about the FIFA standing committees which had plenary meetings recently as well as about the recent Olympic football working group meeting.

As already announced, at the request of the FIFA President, the Executive Committee will hold an extraordinary meeting in Cape Town on 2 December 2009.

Ibrahimovic: I want to win it all

Ibrahimovic: I want to win it all
(FIFA.com) Monday 23 November 2009
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Zlatan Ibrahimovic is without doubt one of the world’s most gifted footballers. In recent years, the sight of the Swedish forward in full flow has been guaranteed to put fear into defenders at both club and international level. Yet even after helping Inter Milan monopolise Serie A, it was not immediately clear how his unique talents would fit in at new club Barcelona.

In a few short months at the Catalan giants, however, Ibra’s all-round displays have quietened even the most vehement of doubters. Ahead of his most pivotal period since joining Barça, with matches against both Inter and Real Madrid to come this week, before December’s FIFA Club World Cup 2009, Ibrahimovic spoke exclusively to FIFA.com.

FIFA.com: Zlatan, you are already a key player at Barcelona despite having been at the club for just a few months. Did you expect to adapt so easily?
Zlatan Ibrahimovic: I didn’t expect the season to start like this. I wanted to start as well as possible but I thought that it’d take me a while to adapt. You don’t normally start firing on all cylinders in your first week at a new club. But my team-mates and the coach helped me so much, and they still do. And when you’re out on the pitch, playing alongside people this talented means you only need to worry about doing your own job right. Everything else just comes naturally.
The Club World Cup is something that so many players want to win. Barcelona have that opportunity now and we’re really fired up for it.
Zlatan Ibrahimovic

You had a freer role at Inter, while at Barcelona it seems that you have more tactical restrictions placed on you.
First of all, we played 4-4-2 at Inter and here the formation is 4-3-3. There’s also a big difference in terms of the two clubs’ mentalities. Here I’m playing up front as a No9 but the coach gives me the freedom to drift wide left or wide right, as long as I get one of the wingers to fill in for me. At Inter I was more isolated, so there was more space for me to move around in attack.

You’ve played under great coaches at both teams. How do Josep Guardiola and Jose Mourinho differ in their approaches?
The main difference is that Guardiola is more active, by which I mean when he explains something on the training pitch he can physically demonstrate what he’s looking for, because he was a top-class player. Mourinho never played at such a high level, but both have a great attitude and a huge desire for success. They’re both able to explain very clearly what they want and are direct when dealing with players. They’re both winners.

And how about on a personal level?
I think that both have a good relationship with their players, they’ve very professional. I can’t speak for anybody else but I always got on extremely well with Mourinho. Just as I do now with Pep.

Have any of your new team-mates really surprised you?
No, because I already knew how they played. The likes of (Andres) Iniesta, (Lionel) Messi, (Thierry) Henry, (Yaya) Toure and (Seydou) Keita are so good that I knew all about them even before I’d been on the pitch with them. That’s why I wasn’t taken by surprise, it’s a real honour to be playing with them.

You have joined a team where the level of expectation is huge. Are Barça capable of repeating last season’s treble of La Liga, Copa del Rey and UEFA Champions League?
I want to win everything, whichever club I play for. That said, repeating the treble will be a tall order. That would need the team to play at its very peak for two seasons in a row and I think that’s very difficult. On the other hand, we’re very strong mentally and we’ve got last year’s experience under our belts, so why not?

How do Barcelona manage to keep performing to such a standard, particularly with the physical demands involved?
We work really hard. There’s a fine balance made between training and matches. We have a group of specialists at Barcelona who prepare everything to make sure that we aren’t put under too much strain and we go into matches in tip-top shape. When you’re playing at this level you know that the games will come thick and fast, that’s why the right physical preparation is so important.

In December you and your team-mates are set to take part in the FIFA Club World Cup in the United Arab Emirates. What would winning that competition mean to you?
The Club World Cup is something that so many players want to win, while remaining a competition in which relatively few take part. Barcelona have that opportunity now and we’re really fired up for it. Particularly because it’s a trophy we haven't won yet. It’s one of the main objectives for the club, players and fans this season.

With Sweden having missed out on a place at next year's FIFA World Cup™, could this December’s tournament be your chance to prove yourself on the world stage?
It was disappointing not to have reached the World Cup with Sweden, so the Club World Cup is very important for me. I treat every competition I take part in as vital, and I always want to win. And this tournament even more so. I’m going to be excited to be there and I’ll do everything I can to help my team to success.

Does that setback with Sweden still rankle?
It was a shame. I’ve already appeared at two World Cups and two EUROs and I love tournaments like that. That’s why it hurts not to be in South Africa. But I’ve also got to be realistic, I play for a national team that isn’t a global powerhouse. We’re never among the favourites to win and though we’re usually able to do enough to qualify, this time luck was against us.
It's a very important game. Barcelona have a very attacking mentality, and I’m sure that we’ll win and score plenty of goals.
Zlatan Ibrahimovic on Barcelona's upcoming game with Real Madrid

Will we see Zlatan Ibrahimovic grace the FIFA World Cup in future?
At the moment I’m sticking to my decision not to play for Sweden anymore, but nobody knows what can happen in the future, so I’m not ruling anything out for the time being. We’ll see what happens.

Returning to the present, you are set to take on old club Inter this week. How does that make you feel?
Inter are a very good team and this is a vital match in which we have no margin for error. If we win then we’ll take charge of the group. So far we’ve had a lot of bad luck in our Champions League games. It’s a very big game for me and I’m in an optimistic mood, I believe that it will turn out the way I want.

Then on Sunday 29 November comes El Clásico against Real Madrid. You’ve quite a week ahead.
Of course it’s a very important game. Not just for us, but for the club, the supporters, even for the neutrals and the world at large. Nobody is indifferent to this match. We’re playing at home and I’m sure we’re going to win.

Is a repeat of last season’s 6-2 scoreline at the Bernabeu possible?
I don’t know if it’ll be so one-sided, I don’t even think about how many goals we’ll score. But Barcelona have a very attacking mentality and I’m sure that we’ll win and score plenty of goals.

Women's round-up: November 2009

Women's round-up: November 2009
(FIFA.com) Friday 27 November 2009
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Another big month of women’s football, both internationally and domestically, was crowned by the meeting of Germany and USA before a bumper crowd in Augsburg. There has also been absorbing action across the globe on the club scene, and as always FIFA.com reviews the latest news in women’s football.

Club football
Potsdam on top again
The German Bundesliga is proving to be an intriguing see-saw battle for supremacy, with a variety of clubs staking a claim for top spot in recent weeks. Former UEFA Cup winners Duisburg could only manage a 1-1 draw on home soil against Saarbrücken last weekend, allowing reigning champions FFC Turbine Potsdam to move into pole position. The club from the Berlin region secured an impressive 4-1 home victory against former big gun FFC Frankfurt, with young German striking sensation Anja Mittag collecting a hat-trick. Traditional giants Frankfurt are struggling in fourth place, having already lost three matches this campaign.

Chelsea replicates men’s success
In recent seasons, Everton have been the only club threatening to challenge Arsenal's monopoly in England, but the current season is providing a different scenario. Chelsea overcame a struggling Everton recently in a 5-3 thriller and currently sit atop the ladder, though London rivals Arsenal still have a number of matches in hand. Sunderland are also enjoying a stint in the limelight and are behind Chelsea only on goal difference, though the Northerners have played three matches more.

Mariners set sail for title
In the Australian W-League, the Central Coast Mariners are hoping to achieve a stunning title swoop entering the penultimate round of action. The unfancied Mariners have a one-point lead on the star-studded Brisbane Roar, even though the reigning champions have not tasted defeat for 18 matches. Little-known striker Michelle Heyman has led the way for the Mariners, scoring ten goals in just eight matches, ably supported by USA duo Lydia Vandenbergh and Kendall Fletcher. Sydney FC are also worth watching, as they sit just two points off the pace ahead of the four-team finals series.

National teams
World titans clash
Late last month, Germany hosted USA in a titanic meeting between the combined winners of the past three editions of the FIFA Women’s World Cup. The US will be hoping the result is a positive omen ahead of Germany 2011, with the Stars and Stripes prevailing 1-0 thanks to a first-half goal from prolific striker Abby Wambach. The match in the southern city of Augsburg attracted a bumper crowd of 28,367

Oranje in trouble
The Netherlands have experienced a major setback in the latest European qualifiers for Germany 2011, with Vera Pauw's ambitious side only managing a 1-1 draw on home soil against Belarus, following a 3-0 reversal in Norway a month earlier. Also facing difficulties are Belgium and Ukraine, who have both dropped a number of points. On the other side of the ledger Russia, Finland, Spain and France have built up momentum and are on track for qualification.

Asian teams a step closer
The draw for one of the world’s most competitive qualifying zones took place last weekend, with Asian nations now knowing what stands between them and a ticket to Germany 2011. Three teams will progress from the eight-nation tournament which will be played in China next May. Group A features DPR Korea, Japan, Myanmar and Thailand, while Group B pits together China, Australia, Vietnam and Korea Republic. Asia features two teams in the top ten of the FIFA Women's World Ranking, Japan and Korea DPR, with China and Australia ranked 12th and 14th respectively.

Japanese starlet crowned
Japan prodigy Mana Iwabuchi was named the AFC Women’s Youth Player of the Year earlier this week, ahead of Korea Republic pair Ji So-Yun and Kim Da-Hye. The diminutive NTV Beleza forward won for the second year running after also being named the tournament’s best player at the AFC U-19 Women’s Championship in August.

Development
Another busy month in FIFA’s development activities included two consultancies in Qatar and Jordan aimed at helping the respective Member Associations better organise women’s football. November also witnessed a national course take place in Moldova as well as a regional course in Trinidad & Tobago that, as part of the build-up to next year’s FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup, involved 14 Member Associations from the Caribbean region. Yet perhaps the highlight of the month was a Women’s Football Development seminar for African nations, which ran from 19 to 22 November in Tunisia. Numerous prominent figures in African women’s football were present as 12 Member Associations came together for the first seminar of its kind in North Africa to consider how best to continue the fine recent progress made in developing the female game in the mother continent.

The quote
"I can live with the result because I cannot remember when we have dominated the United States as clearly as tonight,” German coach Silvia Neid following Germany’s home 1-0 defeat to USA.

The star-studded clásico

The star-studded clásico
(FIFA.com) Friday 27 November 2009
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The cameramen covering Sunday’s meeting between Barcelona and Real Madrid at the Camp Nou will have a job deciding where to train their lenses. The first clásico of the season will bring together some of the biggest stars in the game, from Kaka, Iker Casillas and Xabi Alonso to Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Xavi Hernandez and Andres Iniesta. Taking top billing, however, will be Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi.

The Portuguese, the 2008 FIFA World Player, and the Argentinian, the runner-up for the last two years, are set to face each other for the first time since last season’s UEFA Champions League final in Rome. On that occasion Messi and Co got the better of Ronaldo and his then team-mates at Manchester United to complete an unprecedented treble. Six months on from that stunning achievement and the famous 6-2 defeat they inflicted on Madrid in their own backyard, Barcelona find themselves a point behind Los Merengues, adding even more intrigue to this weekend’s duel.

Though injuries have blighted their preparations, Ronaldo and Messi have no intention of missing one of the biggest dates on the footballing calendar. “I’m fine and I want to play,” said the Portuguese wizard after making a brief return against Zurich on Wednesday evening. “The injury’s not bothering me at all. I haven’t played for a month and a half and I’m not 100 per cent but I want to help the team at the Camp Nou.”

The first legends
The current posse of gifted ballplayers are the latest in a long line of legendary names who have graced Spanish football’s biggest rivalry.

The inaugural clásico took place on 17 February 1928, with Los Blancos earning a 2-1 away win at Les Corts. It was not until the mid-1950s, however, and the arrival of Argentinian ace Alfredo Di Stefano at the Santiago Bernabeu and the hugely talented Hungarian Ladislao Kubala at Can Barça that the fixture generated the first of its many great personal duels.

In the 1953-54 season Kubala’s Barcelona inflicted a humiliating 5-1 defeat on a Madrid side featuring the newly arrived Di Stefano. Interestingly, the talented imports would later become team-mates in the Spanish national side.
I haven’t played for a month and a half and I’m not 100 per cent but I want to help the team at the Camp Nou.
Cristiano Ronaldo, Real Madrid midfielder.

Los Culés dominated in the years that followed before Madrid earned a 2-0 win at the recently opened Camp Nou in 1958. Di Stefano would not gain full revenge over Kubala until the Hungarian’s final clásico in 1960, a match that also featured luminaries such as Ferenc Puskas, Paco Gento and Luis Suarez and which Madrid memorably won 5-3.

The departure of those great names robbed the fixture of glamour, which it would not regain until the arrival of Johan Cruyff in 1973. In his first season the Dutchman inspired Barça to their first title in 14 years, and although his maiden outing against Madrid ended goalless, he played a starring role in his second, a stunning 5-0 away win against a Madrid side comprising players of the stature of Jose Antonio Camacho, Vicente del Bosque and Carlos Santillana.

The Camp Nou remained an unhappy hunting ground for Los Blancos until 1978, Cruyff’s last season in Spain, when Santillana and their new German signing Uli Stielike helped the visitors to a 3-2 win.

Diego, El Buitre and the Dream Team
Diego Maradona arrived in Barcelona shortly afterwards. Though his stay was a relatively brief one, El Pelusa still managed to make his mark on the fixture in the 1982/83 season, helping Los Azulgranas to a 2-1 win over a Madrid side coached by Di Stefano. Revenge would be Di Stefano’s a year later when the men in white won 2-1 in Barcelona, their last away win in the fixture for the next 20 years.

Even the emergence of Emilio Butragueno’s Quinta del Buitre (The Vulture’s Cohort) and the prolific Hugo Sanchez failed to stem the tide. Despite Madrid’s run of five straight league titles, Los Culés continued to dominate their national rivals in the late 80s, a trend that continued when Cruyff took up residence on the Barça bench and shaped the fabled Dream Team, the winners of four championships in a row. One of the many highpoints of Cruyff’s reign was an unforgettable 1994 triumph over their old rivals, with a Barcelona side comprising Ronald Koeman, Michael Laudrup and a young Josep Guardiola storming to a 5-0 win, three of the goals coming from an inspired Romario.

With the likes of Ronaldo, Rivaldo and Luis Figo then joining the ranks, Barcelona continued to hold sway over Madrid at the Camp Nou. From the 1992/93 season they chalked up seven home wins in a row, a run Los Blancos were powerless to prevent despite the recruitment of Fernando Redondo, Davor Suker and Predrag Mijatovic among others.

The era of Los Galácticos, Ronaldinho and Messi
Madrid broke that negative run with a 2-2 draw in October 1999, a game in which when Raul famously silenced the crowd by putting his index finger to his lips. Yet it was not until four years later and the arrival of Zinedine Zidane, David Beckham, Figo and Ronaldo, a.k.a. Los Galácticos, that Raul could celebrate a victory in Barcelona, Madrid running out 2-1 winners in December 2003.

Barça responded by blending home-grown talents, among them Xavi and Carles Puyol, with exciting signings such as Ronaldinho and Samuel Eto’o, a mix that became even more potent when Andres Iniesta and Lionel Messi broke into the side.

The Argentinian scored a hat-trick in a thrilling 3-3 draw with Madrid in March 2007 and followed up with goals in both of last season’s clásico wins. Can he keep that run going on Sunday or will the revamped Merengues extend their lead at the top? Whatever the outcome, it should be quite an occasion.

Odense's Utaka's eyes on 2010

Odense's Utaka's eyes on 2010
(FIFA.com) Friday 27 November 2009
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When Peter Utaka moved to Danish club Odense BK in September 2008 after four years in Belgium, one might have thought that the Nigerian had acclimatised to the cooler climes of the Old Continent. However, the African was to discover a whole new dimension to the term 'cold weather' in his new Scandinavian abode.

"I've been happy here from day one because the lads did a great job in helping me settle in. Still, it's a bit too cold for my liking! I got used to it after a while, though, because my team-mates made the transition very easy for me both on and off the pitch," Utaka told FIFA.com in an exclusive interview.

When the Nigerian first joined Odense, originally founded in 1887 as Odense Cricketklub, he was partnered by Senegalese striker Djiby Fall in attack. When Fall transferred to Russian Premier Liga outfit Lokomotiv Moscow in March 2009, the goalscoring burden fell solely on Utaka's shoulders.

Better to come
"I had a big gap to fill when Djiby Fall left the club," revealed the younger brother of Portsmouth winger John Utaka. "He's a great player and a great guy, so it was a big challenge." It was a challenge he was to thrive under: With 12 goals in 27 matches during his first season with the club, Utaka played a major role in Odense finishing in second place behind eventual champions FC Copenhagen.

"It was really difficult to adjust to the Danish league to begin with. I had to perform every week to make sure the team kept pace at the top of the table. Away from the pitch it wasn't so hard because my team-mates helped me so much," said the striker on his first season in the SAS Ligaen.

Things are going just as swimmingly for the Nigerian this term as well - perhaps even a little better. With 16 games played Odense are top of the standings and 12 of their 28 goals have come from Utaka, making the 25-year-old the league's top scorer so far.

"I've been happy with my performances so far, but I wouldn't say no to a few more goals. I try to improve with every day and every match so that I can become the best striker in the league," said Utaka on his personal ambitions in Denmark's top tier.
It's not going to be easy, but I'll be doing everything humanly possible to make it. I think I have a pretty good chance of making the World Cup squad.
Peter Utaka on his FIFA World Cup chances

The target for the remainder of the current season is clear: the club are aiming for their first championship success since 1989 and the fourth in their history. Their closest rivals for the crown are title favourites Copenhagen and Esbjerg, who are both lurking just four points behind.

"At the start of the season we made it our aim to improve on the season before. We were second last season, so logically now we want to be No1. It's a big challenge for all of us, but it's a challenge we all accept," he continued.

This coming Monday the league leaders take on relegation-threatened HB Koge, who currently sit second bottom in the table having conceded 38 goals - the worst defensive record in the division. Still, there is one thing that the two clubs have in common: Koge also have an African sharpshooter among their ranks.

Kenyan international Emmanuel Ake has been playing in Denmark since 2000 and joined his current club from Herfolge BK over the summer. The 29-year-old has scored five of his team's 14 goals this season and is desperate to help his club avoid the drop.

"I think he's a really good player," said Utaka on his fellow front-runner. "He's in good form, he's good on the ball and his shooting is spot on, which is of course the most important thing for a striker."

FIFA World Cup dream
If Utaka can continue his goalscoring form throughout the rest of the season, he could move into contention for a place in the Nigeria squad at the 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa™ next summer.

"It's one of my biggest dreams. Every player wants to play in a World Cup or in a tournament like the Champions League. If I got the opportunity to play at the World Cup it would be a dream come true for me. It would be amazing," said the ambitious forward, who is yet to make a senior appearance for the Super Eagles.

"I need to work hard and show that I'm worthy of a place. I need to give 110 per cent in every game and perform at a top level every week," he added as the interview came to a close. "Of course I need to keep on scoring, too. It's not going to be easy, but I'll be doing everything humanly possible to make it. I think I have a pretty good chance of making the World Cup squad."

El Pincha's new-found heroes

El Pincha's new-found heroes
(FIFA.com) Friday 27 November 2009
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Estudiantes of Argentina have long been famed for their youth academy. And the youngsters they nurture always remain a member of the Pincharrata family, no matter where their careers might take them. The depth of feeling between the La Plata club and the home-grown talent it rears perhaps explains why outsiders often find it hard to win the affections of the demanding Estudiantes fans.

Two players who have nevertheless managed to buck that trend are Rodrigo Brana and Mauro Boselli, both of whom earned the undying devotion of the club’s faithful by making key contributions to last season’s Copa Libertadores triumph. Should they inspire another success at the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup UAE 2009, one can only imagine the kind of adulation they might receive.

The heart of a lion
Brana began his career with unfashionable Quilmes in the Argentinian Second Division in 1997, moving on to Mallorca B in Spain and returning to Quilmes before pitching up in the city of La Plata at the end of 2004. Diminutive in stature but fiercely committed, El Chapu, as he is known in the game, became a fans favourite thanks to his work rate and defensive abilities, which made him the ideal foil for Juan Sebastian Veron in the Pincha midfield.
They got behind me right from the start. I grew in confidence and I repaid them by scoring goals, which made the relationship between us even stronger.
Mauro Boselli on the Estudiantes fans

Such has been his success in the role that Diego Maradona called him up for Argentina’s last two games in the qualifying competition for South Africa 2010. And as he tells FIFA.com, the 30-year-old never imagined such riches when he signed for El León. “The club wasn’t thinking about winning the championship when I arrived but avoiding the promotion and relegation play-offs. The return of Sebastian (Veron) in 2006 was just the boost a developing team needed, though. Things began to work out after that. First we won the league and then we reached the final of the Copa Sudamericana. The Libertadores was just the logical result of all that.”

Brana was on the verge of leaving for Mexico following the Libertadores win, but was persuaded to stay by Veron and the club’s directors. “I feel respected and loved by the people here and by my team-mates,” he continues. “That means a lot to me, especially in a league like Argentina’s, where you’re great if you win and a disaster if you lose. And it’s also fantastic to have the Club World Cup coming up, which will be a wonderful challenge.”

The goalgetter
As for Boselli, Dubai 2009 will be his second appearance in the competition. El Chapa was a member of the Boca Juniors squad that reached the final in 2007 before losing to AC Milan. A Xeneize youth product, he started his career with the Buenos Aires giants, making his first-team debut in 2003.

A bright future was predicted for him, but with the likes of Martin Palermo, another idol who came through the Pincharrata ranks, ahead of him in the Boca pecking order, he decided to move on. It was Estudiantes who came in for the bustling, hard-working centre-forward with a commanding aerial presence, purchasing a 50 per cent stake in the player in the middle of 2008.
The club wasn’t thinking about winning the championship when I arrived but avoiding the promotion and relegation play-offs.
Rodrigo Brana

It has proved to be a sound investment. Boselli has scored 31 goals in 55 matches in the red-and-white jersey, eight of them coming in the Copa Libertadores, making him the top scorer in the competition. One of those strikes was the goal that clinched a 2-1 win for the Argentinians in the second leg of the final against Cruzeiro.

Yet as he also explains to FIFA.com, Boselli felt the warmth of the fans even before his goalscoring feats. “They got behind me right from the start. I grew in confidence and I repaid them by scoring goals, which made the relationship between us even stronger.”

It is somewhat surprising then that people still ask him if he regrets leaving Boca. “With every passing day I become more and more convinced I made the right decision. Estudiantes are one of the best sides in the world and the trip to UAE is proof of that.”

Ready for the challenge
Estudiantes’ opponents in the semi-finals in Dubai will be either Mazembe of Congo DR or Korea Republic’s Pohang Steelers, two unknown quantities whom Boselli will not be taking lightly. “I always prefer to play against teams you know,” he explains.

“The same thing happened with Boca in 2007. We played an African team in the semis (Etoile Sportive du Sahel of Tunisia) and they made life difficult for us. We won 1-0 and they ran us close. You might have an idea about how they play and who their stars are but there are lots of little things you don’t know and they can be decisive sometimes.”

Brana agrees with his team-mate, but believes Estudiantes’ experience will see them through. “We never underestimate anyone,” he says. “We’ll be trying to make sure we put in a good display in the semi-final, because if you start thinking about the final too early, you might get knocked out.”

Despite his caution, the midfielder still ventures an opinion on Barcelona, the side they are tipped to meet in the tournament showpiece. “We watch them a lot. We know their game and we’ve been studying their weaknesses. But then Iniesta or Xavi get hold of the ball or Messi goes past six players and it’s all over. If we do play them we need to use our heads.”

“Their full-backs like to get forward and sometimes they leave space down the flanks,” says Boselli, offering his views on the European champions. “We’ll have to see what happens if we can work an overlap. You also have to challenge them for the ball and make the most of any openings they give you.”

And as far as objectives are concerned, the popular Pincha imports are both in agreement. “The team’s got used to fighting for major trophies and always tries to win while keeping its feet on the ground,” says Brana, leaving the way for Boselli to make a genuine statement of intent: “If this club doesn’t fight for the title in every competition, then it’s a failure. And the Club World Cup will be no exception.”

European Leagues preview

European Leagues preview
(FIFA.com) Friday 27 November 2009
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Two titanic clashes bristling with rivalry and prestige in Spain and England stand out from the rest of the weekend programme around Europe. Barcelona and Real Madrid go head-to-head in La Liga, while Premier League leaders Chelsea travel to the north of London for the showdown with Arsenal.

The top three in Germany face stern tests of their championship credentials. In France, high-flying Auxerre visit the capital, with the all-Genoa derby top of the Italian bill of fare. FIFA.com previews the weekend action around the continent.

La Liga: Battle of the giants
Everything else on Matchday 12 in Spain is overshadowed by El Clasico, when Barcelona entertain Real Madrid. The Catalans remain unbeaten in the league this term, but Madrid are top of the pile and aim to stay there despite the seething partisanship they will encounter at Camp Nou. The game should provide a first true pointer as to the relative strength of the league’s dominant two this season.

Madrid also face Barcelona elsewhere, as relegation strugglers Atletico host Espanyol, themselves performing below expectations in tenth place on 13 points. Third-placed Sevilla would favour a draw in El Clasico, as they can make up ground on the front two by beating tail-enders Malaga. Valencia and Mallorca, fourth and sixth respectively, both need the points to stay in touch with the UEFA Champions League qualifying spots.

The question: Can Real travel to Barcelona and hand the champions their first defeat of the campaign?
The big game: Barcelona–Real Madrid, Sunday, 19:00, Camp Nou
The quote: "I’m definitely ready to play in Barcelona. I’m feeling good and I want to play. Now it’s down to the coach whether I start." Cristiano Ronaldo, Real Madrid

Premier League: Showdown in London
The 14th round of matches in the Premier League also includes a standout fixture, as leaders Chelsea make the short trip from west to north London determined to put distance between themselves and third-placed Arsenal. Something has to give when the meanest team Chelsea, with only eight goals against, meet the most prolific, the Gunners, who have scored 36.

Second-placed Manchester United appear to have a relatively simple task when they travel to bottom club Portsmouth. Fifth meet fourth in a battle between two clubs hoping to feature in next season’s Champions League: Aston Villa entertain Tottenham, the form team of the moment in the wake of last week’s 9-1 demolition job on Wigan.

The question: Can Arsenal maintain their perfect home record and make it six wins out of six when leaders Chelsea come calling?
The big game: Arsenal–Chelsea, Sunday, 17:00, Emirates Stadium
The quote: "We look confident, and we're playing with confidence. We've got some tough games coming up, we need to regroup now and make sure we're sharp for Arsenal." John Terry, Chelsea

Bundesliga: Toughies for table-toppers
The top three in the Bundesliga would probably have preferred easier fixtures on Matchday 14. Undefeated leaders Bayer Leverkusen entertain Champions League contenders Stuttgart, whose unimpressive league form sees them a lowly 16th, but who have every chance of making the last 16 in Europe’s elite club competition. Second-placed Werder Bremen, defeated only on opening day, also meet Champions League-class opponents with the visit of eighth-placed Wolfsburg.

Third-placed Schalke travel to mid-table Borussia Monchengladbach, who look a lot more stable now after taking eight points from their last four matches. Hoffenheim and Hamburg in fourth and fifth face intriguing fixtures against Borussia Dortmund (9th) and high-flying Mainz (6th), with all four clubs keen for points to remain there or thereabouts at the top.

The question: Can resurgent Stuttgart inflict a first league defeat of term on Bayer Leverkusen?
The big game: Werder Bremen–Wolfsburg, Saturday, 15:30, Weserstadion
The quote: "We have no reason to be scared. We’re especially strong away from home right now, although you can’t expect us to win all our away games." Heiko Westermann, Schalke

Serie A: Derby time in Genoa
The biggest game on Matchday 14 takes place in Milan, but the edgiest duel sees seventh-placed Genoa take on city rivals Sampdoria, three places above them in the standings. The home team are only four points off Samp and would re-enter contention for a Champions League finish if they win. For their part, Sampdoria need the points to stay within touching distance of top trio Inter, Juventus and AC Milan.

The leaders meet Fiorentina, arguably the surprise package of the campaign to date. The men from Tuscany not only lie a creditable sixth in the table, they sealed a berth in the Champions League first knockout round during the week. Juve visit eighth-placed Cagliari, while Milan take on second-from-bottom Catania.

The question: Can promoted Parma maintain or improve on fifth spot by beating Napoli?
The big game: Inter-Fiorentina, Sunday, 15:00, San Siro
The quote: "I’m delighted about Totti’s hat-trick last weekend, because he’s proved yet again his ability to come back from serious injury." Marcello Lippi, Italy coach

Ligue 1: Depleted Auxerre seek capital gains
In-form Auxerre, French champions back in 1996, currently top the standings on the back of seven straight wins, although Polish marksman Ireneusz Jelen is out of the trip to Paris Saint-Germain with injury. Closest pursuers Bordeaux visit twelfth-placed Nancy, where coach Laurent Blanc will doubtless expect his Girondins side to pick up maximum points. Third-placed Lyon will be chasing the same reward against mid-table Rennes. Eighth-placed Monaco’s meeting with Montpellier, who are fifth but a mere two points off the lead, has been called off due to an outbreak of swine flu at the promoted club.

The question: Can leaders Auxerre make it eight wins on the bounce when they travel to face Paris Saint-Germain?
The big game: Paris Saint-Germain–Auxerre, Saturday, 19:00, Parc des Princes
The quote: "It’s easier for us all when he (Ireneusz Jelen) plays. He’s the driving force behind our play. Without him, we’ll have the same problems we had back in the summer." Jean Fernandez, Auxerre coach

Elsewhere
Bundesliga fans in Austria are licking their lips at the prospect of the nation’s biggest showdown when second-placed RB Salzburg meet leaders Rapid Vienna. The clubs are level on points, so top spot is the prize on offer for the winners on Matchday 17. A draw would benefit third-placed Austria Vienna, provided the men from the capital overcome bottom club Austria Karnten.

Similar excitement is on the cards in Greece. Champions and cup holders Olympiakos are second in the Super League, but entertain leaders Panathinaikos this weekend and can leapfrog their way to the top of the pile with a win.

European Leagues preview

European Leagues preview
(FIFA.com) Friday 27 November 2009
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Two titanic clashes bristling with rivalry and prestige in Spain and England stand out from the rest of the weekend programme around Europe. Barcelona and Real Madrid go head-to-head in La Liga, while Premier League leaders Chelsea travel to the north of London for the showdown with Arsenal.

The top three in Germany face stern tests of their championship credentials. In France, high-flying Auxerre visit the capital, with the all-Genoa derby top of the Italian bill of fare. FIFA.com previews the weekend action around the continent.

La Liga: Battle of the giants
Everything else on Matchday 12 in Spain is overshadowed by El Clasico, when Barcelona entertain Real Madrid. The Catalans remain unbeaten in the league this term, but Madrid are top of the pile and aim to stay there despite the seething partisanship they will encounter at Camp Nou. The game should provide a first true pointer as to the relative strength of the league’s dominant two this season.

Madrid also face Barcelona elsewhere, as relegation strugglers Atletico host Espanyol, themselves performing below expectations in tenth place on 13 points. Third-placed Sevilla would favour a draw in El Clasico, as they can make up ground on the front two by beating tail-enders Malaga. Valencia and Mallorca, fourth and sixth respectively, both need the points to stay in touch with the UEFA Champions League qualifying spots.

The question: Can Real travel to Barcelona and hand the champions their first defeat of the campaign?
The big game: Barcelona–Real Madrid, Sunday, 19:00, Camp Nou
The quote: "I’m definitely ready to play in Barcelona. I’m feeling good and I want to play. Now it’s down to the coach whether I start." Cristiano Ronaldo, Real Madrid

Premier League: Showdown in London
The 14th round of matches in the Premier League also includes a standout fixture, as leaders Chelsea make the short trip from west to north London determined to put distance between themselves and third-placed Arsenal. Something has to give when the meanest team Chelsea, with only eight goals against, meet the most prolific, the Gunners, who have scored 36.

Second-placed Manchester United appear to have a relatively simple task when they travel to bottom club Portsmouth. Fifth meet fourth in a battle between two clubs hoping to feature in next season’s Champions League: Aston Villa entertain Tottenham, the form team of the moment in the wake of last week’s 9-1 demolition job on Wigan.

The question: Can Arsenal maintain their perfect home record and make it six wins out of six when leaders Chelsea come calling?
The big game: Arsenal–Chelsea, Sunday, 17:00, Emirates Stadium
The quote: "We look confident, and we're playing with confidence. We've got some tough games coming up, we need to regroup now and make sure we're sharp for Arsenal." John Terry, Chelsea

Bundesliga: Toughies for table-toppers
The top three in the Bundesliga would probably have preferred easier fixtures on Matchday 14. Undefeated leaders Bayer Leverkusen entertain Champions League contenders Stuttgart, whose unimpressive league form sees them a lowly 16th, but who have every chance of making the last 16 in Europe’s elite club competition. Second-placed Werder Bremen, defeated only on opening day, also meet Champions League-class opponents with the visit of eighth-placed Wolfsburg.

Third-placed Schalke travel to mid-table Borussia Monchengladbach, who look a lot more stable now after taking eight points from their last four matches. Hoffenheim and Hamburg in fourth and fifth face intriguing fixtures against Borussia Dortmund (9th) and high-flying Mainz (6th), with all four clubs keen for points to remain there or thereabouts at the top.

The question: Can resurgent Stuttgart inflict a first league defeat of term on Bayer Leverkusen?
The big game: Werder Bremen–Wolfsburg, Saturday, 15:30, Weserstadion
The quote: "We have no reason to be scared. We’re especially strong away from home right now, although you can’t expect us to win all our away games." Heiko Westermann, Schalke

Serie A: Derby time in Genoa
The biggest game on Matchday 14 takes place in Milan, but the edgiest duel sees seventh-placed Genoa take on city rivals Sampdoria, three places above them in the standings. The home team are only four points off Samp and would re-enter contention for a Champions League finish if they win. For their part, Sampdoria need the points to stay within touching distance of top trio Inter, Juventus and AC Milan.

The leaders meet Fiorentina, arguably the surprise package of the campaign to date. The men from Tuscany not only lie a creditable sixth in the table, they sealed a berth in the Champions League first knockout round during the week. Juve visit eighth-placed Cagliari, while Milan take on second-from-bottom Catania.

The question: Can promoted Parma maintain or improve on fifth spot by beating Napoli?
The big game: Inter-Fiorentina, Sunday, 15:00, San Siro
The quote: "I’m delighted about Totti’s hat-trick last weekend, because he’s proved yet again his ability to come back from serious injury." Marcello Lippi, Italy coach

Ligue 1: Depleted Auxerre seek capital gains
In-form Auxerre, French champions back in 1996, currently top the standings on the back of seven straight wins, although Polish marksman Ireneusz Jelen is out of the trip to Paris Saint-Germain with injury. Closest pursuers Bordeaux visit twelfth-placed Nancy, where coach Laurent Blanc will doubtless expect his Girondins side to pick up maximum points. Third-placed Lyon will be chasing the same reward against mid-table Rennes. Eighth-placed Monaco’s meeting with Montpellier, who are fifth but a mere two points off the lead, has been called off due to an outbreak of swine flu at the promoted club.

The question: Can leaders Auxerre make it eight wins on the bounce when they travel to face Paris Saint-Germain?
The big game: Paris Saint-Germain–Auxerre, Saturday, 19:00, Parc des Princes
The quote: "It’s easier for us all when he (Ireneusz Jelen) plays. He’s the driving force behind our play. Without him, we’ll have the same problems we had back in the summer." Jean Fernandez, Auxerre coach

Elsewhere
Bundesliga fans in Austria are licking their lips at the prospect of the nation’s biggest showdown when second-placed RB Salzburg meet leaders Rapid Vienna. The clubs are level on points, so top spot is the prize on offer for the winners on Matchday 17. A draw would benefit third-placed Austria Vienna, provided the men from the capital overcome bottom club Austria Karnten.

Similar excitement is on the cards in Greece. Champions and cup holders Olympiakos are second in the Super League, but entertain leaders Panathinaikos this weekend and can leapfrog their way to the top of the pile with a win.

European Leagues preview

European Leagues preview
(FIFA.com) Friday 27 November 2009
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Two titanic clashes bristling with rivalry and prestige in Spain and England stand out from the rest of the weekend programme around Europe. Barcelona and Real Madrid go head-to-head in La Liga, while Premier League leaders Chelsea travel to the north of London for the showdown with Arsenal.

The top three in Germany face stern tests of their championship credentials. In France, high-flying Auxerre visit the capital, with the all-Genoa derby top of the Italian bill of fare. FIFA.com previews the weekend action around the continent.

La Liga: Battle of the giants
Everything else on Matchday 12 in Spain is overshadowed by El Clasico, when Barcelona entertain Real Madrid. The Catalans remain unbeaten in the league this term, but Madrid are top of the pile and aim to stay there despite the seething partisanship they will encounter at Camp Nou. The game should provide a first true pointer as to the relative strength of the league’s dominant two this season.

Madrid also face Barcelona elsewhere, as relegation strugglers Atletico host Espanyol, themselves performing below expectations in tenth place on 13 points. Third-placed Sevilla would favour a draw in El Clasico, as they can make up ground on the front two by beating tail-enders Malaga. Valencia and Mallorca, fourth and sixth respectively, both need the points to stay in touch with the UEFA Champions League qualifying spots.

The question: Can Real travel to Barcelona and hand the champions their first defeat of the campaign?
The big game: Barcelona–Real Madrid, Sunday, 19:00, Camp Nou
The quote: "I’m definitely ready to play in Barcelona. I’m feeling good and I want to play. Now it’s down to the coach whether I start." Cristiano Ronaldo, Real Madrid

Premier League: Showdown in London
The 14th round of matches in the Premier League also includes a standout fixture, as leaders Chelsea make the short trip from west to north London determined to put distance between themselves and third-placed Arsenal. Something has to give when the meanest team Chelsea, with only eight goals against, meet the most prolific, the Gunners, who have scored 36.

Second-placed Manchester United appear to have a relatively simple task when they travel to bottom club Portsmouth. Fifth meet fourth in a battle between two clubs hoping to feature in next season’s Champions League: Aston Villa entertain Tottenham, the form team of the moment in the wake of last week’s 9-1 demolition job on Wigan.

The question: Can Arsenal maintain their perfect home record and make it six wins out of six when leaders Chelsea come calling?
The big game: Arsenal–Chelsea, Sunday, 17:00, Emirates Stadium
The quote: "We look confident, and we're playing with confidence. We've got some tough games coming up, we need to regroup now and make sure we're sharp for Arsenal." John Terry, Chelsea

Bundesliga: Toughies for table-toppers
The top three in the Bundesliga would probably have preferred easier fixtures on Matchday 14. Undefeated leaders Bayer Leverkusen entertain Champions League contenders Stuttgart, whose unimpressive league form sees them a lowly 16th, but who have every chance of making the last 16 in Europe’s elite club competition. Second-placed Werder Bremen, defeated only on opening day, also meet Champions League-class opponents with the visit of eighth-placed Wolfsburg.

Third-placed Schalke travel to mid-table Borussia Monchengladbach, who look a lot more stable now after taking eight points from their last four matches. Hoffenheim and Hamburg in fourth and fifth face intriguing fixtures against Borussia Dortmund (9th) and high-flying Mainz (6th), with all four clubs keen for points to remain there or thereabouts at the top.

The question: Can resurgent Stuttgart inflict a first league defeat of term on Bayer Leverkusen?
The big game: Werder Bremen–Wolfsburg, Saturday, 15:30, Weserstadion
The quote: "We have no reason to be scared. We’re especially strong away from home right now, although you can’t expect us to win all our away games." Heiko Westermann, Schalke

Serie A: Derby time in Genoa
The biggest game on Matchday 14 takes place in Milan, but the edgiest duel sees seventh-placed Genoa take on city rivals Sampdoria, three places above them in the standings. The home team are only four points off Samp and would re-enter contention for a Champions League finish if they win. For their part, Sampdoria need the points to stay within touching distance of top trio Inter, Juventus and AC Milan.

The leaders meet Fiorentina, arguably the surprise package of the campaign to date. The men from Tuscany not only lie a creditable sixth in the table, they sealed a berth in the Champions League first knockout round during the week. Juve visit eighth-placed Cagliari, while Milan take on second-from-bottom Catania.

The question: Can promoted Parma maintain or improve on fifth spot by beating Napoli?
The big game: Inter-Fiorentina, Sunday, 15:00, San Siro
The quote: "I’m delighted about Totti’s hat-trick last weekend, because he’s proved yet again his ability to come back from serious injury." Marcello Lippi, Italy coach

Ligue 1: Depleted Auxerre seek capital gains
In-form Auxerre, French champions back in 1996, currently top the standings on the back of seven straight wins, although Polish marksman Ireneusz Jelen is out of the trip to Paris Saint-Germain with injury. Closest pursuers Bordeaux visit twelfth-placed Nancy, where coach Laurent Blanc will doubtless expect his Girondins side to pick up maximum points. Third-placed Lyon will be chasing the same reward against mid-table Rennes. Eighth-placed Monaco’s meeting with Montpellier, who are fifth but a mere two points off the lead, has been called off due to an outbreak of swine flu at the promoted club.

The question: Can leaders Auxerre make it eight wins on the bounce when they travel to face Paris Saint-Germain?
The big game: Paris Saint-Germain–Auxerre, Saturday, 19:00, Parc des Princes
The quote: "It’s easier for us all when he (Ireneusz Jelen) plays. He’s the driving force behind our play. Without him, we’ll have the same problems we had back in the summer." Jean Fernandez, Auxerre coach

Elsewhere
Bundesliga fans in Austria are licking their lips at the prospect of the nation’s biggest showdown when second-placed RB Salzburg meet leaders Rapid Vienna. The clubs are level on points, so top spot is the prize on offer for the winners on Matchday 17. A draw would benefit third-placed Austria Vienna, provided the men from the capital overcome bottom club Austria Karnten.

Similar excitement is on the cards in Greece. Champions and cup holders Olympiakos are second in the Super League, but entertain leaders Panathinaikos this weekend and can leapfrog their way to the top of the pile with a win.

Beckham

Beckham proud in defeat
(PA) Monday 23 November 2009
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David Beckham was left to rue another penalty shoot-out loss as the Los Angeles Galaxy lost the MLS Cup final to Real Salt Lake at Qwest Field.

With the game deadlocked at 1-1 after extra time, Beckham converted the first spot-kick, but a miss from striker Edson Buddle left Salt Lake defender Robbie Russell to secure a 5-4 victory and give the club a first title in only their fifth season as an MLS team. Beckham has been part of three England teams knocked out of major tournaments on penalties; by Argentina in the 1998 FIFA World Cup™, when he had earlier been sent off, and by Portugal in UEFA EURO 2004 and the 2006 FIFA World Cup.

"It's always tough losing, whether you lose on penalties or in normal play, but we can be proud of where we've come to," Beckham said. "I wouldn't say it's tougher to lose on penalties but it's Russian roulette, it's not a nice way to lose but that's the way it is. The people that step up are brave enough to step up and if you score, great, and if you miss it's hard to take. Josh (Saunders) did great to make those saves, he's a great goalkeeper, it just wasn't our night."

Salt Lake, who lost more games than they won in the regular season before reaching the play-offs as a wild card, made the brighter start to the final on the artificial FieldTurf surface as Beckham shook off an ankle injury with three pain-killing injections to start the game.
It's always tough losing, whether you lose on penalties or in normal play, but we can be proud of where we've come to.
David Beckham on LA Galaxy

"I had three injections in my ankle and it wore off after about 15 minutes," he said. "I knew it would be like that going into the game and of course it got worse and worse during the game, but that's what happens when you've got an injury like that."

Despite that, Beckham had a part in the Galaxy goal in the 41st minute. He fed Landon Donovan on the right and the LA captain sent over a cross to the back post which Mike Magee slotted home first time to give the Galaxy a 1-0 lead that they held until the 64th minute. Leading scorer Robbie Findley pulled his team level after Kyle Beckerman put the ball into the box. Two shots were blocked by Galaxy defenders before it fell to Findley, who fired home from the corner of the six-yard box.

Galaxy keeper Donovan Ricketts was substituted straight after conceding the equaliser, the former Bolton and Bradford man's right hand having been injured earlier in the half with Saunders replacing him in goal. Seven minutes of added time could not break the deadlock, however, and the game moved into extra time.

"I think we controlled the first half and then, naturally, they came out in the second half 1-0 down and pushed us a little bit," Beckham said. "They kept control of the ball, had their chances and we had a couple of chances but neither team could break each other down."

World Leagues review
(FIFA.com) Monday 23 November 2009
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Surprise champions were crowned in the USA, while the finish line has moved into view in Argentina, Brazil and Japan, with many of the pacesetters struggling to underline their credentials. FIFA.com visits five continents in reviewing domestic action across the globe including.

Argentinian Apertura: Derby fever
Newell's Old Boys relinquished joint-leadership after being held 2-2 by Rosario Central in a lively derby. After Rosario took an early two-goal lead, Newell’s pulled a goal back almost immediately before Paraguayan Jorge Achucarro equalised just before the hour with an audacious backheel. The result left unbeaten Banfield, who had to come from behind to win 2-1 at Independiente, two points ahead of Newell's with four matches remaining.

Big game: South American champions Estudiantes are six points off the pace after beating bottom team Tigre 3-1 ahead of a looming trip to the United Arab Emirates for the FIFA Club World Cup.
Headline-grabber: Uruguayan striker Santiago 'Tank' Silva scored the winner and his 12 goal of the campaign as Banfield claimed outright top spot.

Brasileirao: Jitters at the top
With just two rounds now remaining in the title race, the leading contenders seem to be suffering from nerves. Flamengo squandered the opportunity to go top after being held to a 0-0 draw by mid-table Goias. It was even worse for leaders Sao Paulo, who, having won four of their previous five matches, lost 3-2 away to relegation-threatened Botafogo and now head the standings by a mere point.

Big game: Internacional restarted their title aspirations with a 1-0 win at fifth-placed Atletico Mineiro. Inter are now level with Palmeiras in fourth, three points off the pace.
Headline-grabber: Fred continued his rich vein of form with his 11th goal in 12 matches as Copa Sudamericana finalists Fluminense continued their push for safety with a 3-0 win at relegated Sport.

Japanese J.League: Leaders struggle for fluency
Kawasaki Frontale lost top spot after crashing 1-0 to second division-bound Oita Trinita. Brazilian forward Fernandinho flicked home what could ultimately prove to be the title decider after impressive lead-up work from midfielder Mu Kanazaki. Defending champions Kashima Antlers now have a two-point lead with two rounds remaining, after a hard-fought 1-0 defeat of Kyoto Purple Sanga.

Big game: Gamba Osaka maintained their slim title hopes with a 2-0 win over Shimizu S-Pulse thanks to goals from Lucas and Cho Jae-Jin.
Headline-grabber: Brazilian striker Edmilson scored a hat-trick as Urawa Red Diamonds secured an injury-time 3-2 win over Jubilo Iwata.

Ghanaian Premier League: Early pacesetters fall back to the pack
Kessben FC’s four-point lead at the top has been cut to just one after a 2-1 defeat at newly-promoted New Edubiase United. Nuhu Fuseini and Seidu Bamson gave Edubiase a two-goal lead before James Boadu pulled a goal back for Kessben. Traditional big guns Asante Kotoko continued to struggle with a 1-0 defeat at Heart of Lions in Kpando.

Big game: Champions Hearts of Oak bounced back from recent poor form to overcome Bechem Chelsea 2-1 though they still are five points off the summit in a congested table.

Headline-grabber: Abdul Aziz Yusif struck a brace as Real Tamale United scored an important 3-2 victory over Great Olympics.

Elsewhere
Real Salt Lake upset the star-studded LA Galaxy side to claim their first Major League Soccer championship, winning on penalties following a 1-1 draw after extra time. David Beckham converted the first spot-kick of the shoot-out but a miss from team-mate Edson Buddle opened the door for Real Salt Lake, with defender Robbie Russell proving the hero by converting to give the club their first title in only their fourth season. Real Salt Lake had commenced the season with a seven-match winless run but were victorious in three straight play-off games to earn the Eastern Conference title. It had been a similar story for the Galaxy who commenced their campaign with 11 draws in their first 13 matches.

One of the highlights of the New Zealand domestic calendar took place as FIFA Club World Cup representatives Auckland City remained unbeaten at the top of the New Zealand Football Championship standings with a drama-charged 2-1 derby victory over Auckland rivals Waitakere United. Auckland came from behind despite being down to ten men for virtually the entire match with the equaliser coming from Ivan Vicelich, who a week earlier had helped the All Whites qualify for South Africa 2010. YoungHeart Manawatu moved into second spot with a valuable 2-1 win over at Waikato.

Finally, in the Korean K-League play-offs Seongnam Ilhwa Chunma needed penalties to get the better of Incheon United, while it was the same story for Chunnam Dragons who defeated FC Seoul by the same method to advance to the second round.

World Leagues review

World Leagues review
(FIFA.com) Monday 23 November 2009
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Surprise champions were crowned in the USA, while the finish line has moved into view in Argentina, Brazil and Japan, with many of the pacesetters struggling to underline their credentials. FIFA.com visits five continents in reviewing domestic action across the globe including.

Argentinian Apertura: Derby fever
Newell's Old Boys relinquished joint-leadership after being held 2-2 by Rosario Central in a lively derby. After Rosario took an early two-goal lead, Newell’s pulled a goal back almost immediately before Paraguayan Jorge Achucarro equalised just before the hour with an audacious backheel. The result left unbeaten Banfield, who had to come from behind to win 2-1 at Independiente, two points ahead of Newell's with four matches remaining.

Big game: South American champions Estudiantes are six points off the pace after beating bottom team Tigre 3-1 ahead of a looming trip to the United Arab Emirates for the FIFA Club World Cup.
Headline-grabber: Uruguayan striker Santiago 'Tank' Silva scored the winner and his 12 goal of the campaign as Banfield claimed outright top spot.

Brasileirao: Jitters at the top
With just two rounds now remaining in the title race, the leading contenders seem to be suffering from nerves. Flamengo squandered the opportunity to go top after being held to a 0-0 draw by mid-table Goias. It was even worse for leaders Sao Paulo, who, having won four of their previous five matches, lost 3-2 away to relegation-threatened Botafogo and now head the standings by a mere point.

Big game: Internacional restarted their title aspirations with a 1-0 win at fifth-placed Atletico Mineiro. Inter are now level with Palmeiras in fourth, three points off the pace.
Headline-grabber: Fred continued his rich vein of form with his 11th goal in 12 matches as Copa Sudamericana finalists Fluminense continued their push for safety with a 3-0 win at relegated Sport.

Japanese J.League: Leaders struggle for fluency
Kawasaki Frontale lost top spot after crashing 1-0 to second division-bound Oita Trinita. Brazilian forward Fernandinho flicked home what could ultimately prove to be the title decider after impressive lead-up work from midfielder Mu Kanazaki. Defending champions Kashima Antlers now have a two-point lead with two rounds remaining, after a hard-fought 1-0 defeat of Kyoto Purple Sanga.

Big game: Gamba Osaka maintained their slim title hopes with a 2-0 win over Shimizu S-Pulse thanks to goals from Lucas and Cho Jae-Jin.
Headline-grabber: Brazilian striker Edmilson scored a hat-trick as Urawa Red Diamonds secured an injury-time 3-2 win over Jubilo Iwata.

Ghanaian Premier League: Early pacesetters fall back to the pack
Kessben FC’s four-point lead at the top has been cut to just one after a 2-1 defeat at newly-promoted New Edubiase United. Nuhu Fuseini and Seidu Bamson gave Edubiase a two-goal lead before James Boadu pulled a goal back for Kessben. Traditional big guns Asante Kotoko continued to struggle with a 1-0 defeat at Heart of Lions in Kpando.

Big game: Champions Hearts of Oak bounced back from recent poor form to overcome Bechem Chelsea 2-1 though they still are five points off the summit in a congested table.

Headline-grabber: Abdul Aziz Yusif struck a brace as Real Tamale United scored an important 3-2 victory over Great Olympics.

Elsewhere
Real Salt Lake upset the star-studded LA Galaxy side to claim their first Major League Soccer championship, winning on penalties following a 1-1 draw after extra time. David Beckham converted the first spot-kick of the shoot-out but a miss from team-mate Edson Buddle opened the door for Real Salt Lake, with defender Robbie Russell proving the hero by converting to give the club their first title in only their fourth season. Real Salt Lake had commenced the season with a seven-match winless run but were victorious in three straight play-off games to earn the Eastern Conference title. It had been a similar story for the Galaxy who commenced their campaign with 11 draws in their first 13 matches.

One of the highlights of the New Zealand domestic calendar took place as FIFA Club World Cup representatives Auckland City remained unbeaten at the top of the New Zealand Football Championship standings with a drama-charged 2-1 derby victory over Auckland rivals Waitakere United. Auckland came from behind despite being down to ten men for virtually the entire match with the equaliser coming from Ivan Vicelich, who a week earlier had helped the All Whites qualify for South Africa 2010. YoungHeart Manawatu moved into second spot with a valuable 2-1 win over at Waikato.

Finally, in the Korean K-League play-offs Seongnam Ilhwa Chunma needed penalties to get the better of Incheon United, while it was the same story for Chunnam Dragons who defeated FC Seoul by the same method to advance to the second round.

Ibrahimovic:

Ibrahimovic:
I want to win it all
(FIFA.com) Monday 23 November 2009
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Zlatan Ibrahimovic is without doubt one of the world’s most gifted footballers. In recent years, the sight of the Swedish forward in full flow has been guaranteed to put fear into defenders at both club and international level. Yet even after helping Inter Milan monopolise Serie A, it was not immediately clear how his unique talents would fit in at new club Barcelona.

In a few short months at the Catalan giants, however, Ibra’s all-round displays have quietened even the most vehement of doubters. Ahead of his most pivotal period since joining Barça, with matches against both Inter and Real Madrid to come this week, before December’s FIFA Club World Cup 2009, Ibrahimovic spoke exclusively to FIFA.com.

FIFA.com: Zlatan, you are already a key player at Barcelona despite having been at the club for just a few months. Did you expect to adapt so easily?
Zlatan Ibrahimovic: I didn’t expect the season to start like this. I wanted to start as well as possible but I thought that it’d take me a while to adapt. You don’t normally start firing on all cylinders in your first week at a new club. But my team-mates and the coach helped me so much, and they still do. And when you’re out on the pitch, playing alongside people this talented means you only need to worry about doing your own job right. Everything else just comes naturally.
The Club World Cup is something that so many players want to win. Barcelona have that opportunity now and we’re really fired up for it.
Zlatan Ibrahimovic

You had a freer role at Inter, while at Barcelona it seems that you have more tactical restrictions placed on you.
First of all, we played 4-4-2 at Inter and here the formation is 4-3-3. There’s also a big difference in terms of the two clubs’ mentalities. Here I’m playing up front as a No9 but the coach gives me the freedom to drift wide left or wide right, as long as I get one of the wingers to fill in for me. At Inter I was more isolated, so there was more space for me to move around in attack.

You’ve played under great coaches at both teams. How do Josep Guardiola and Jose Mourinho differ in their approaches?
The main difference is that Guardiola is more active, by which I mean when he explains something on the training pitch he can physically demonstrate what he’s looking for, because he was a top-class player. Mourinho never played at such a high level, but both have a great attitude and a huge desire for success. They’re both able to explain very clearly what they want and are direct when dealing with players. They’re both winners.

And how about on a personal level?
I think that both have a good relationship with their players, they’ve very professional. I can’t speak for anybody else but I always got on extremely well with Mourinho. Just as I do now with Pep.

Have any of your new team-mates really surprised you?
No, because I already knew how they played. The likes of (Andres) Iniesta, (Lionel) Messi, (Thierry) Henry, (Yaya) Toure and (Seydou) Keita are so good that I knew all about them even before I’d been on the pitch with them. That’s why I wasn’t taken by surprise, it’s a real honour to be playing with them.

You have joined a team where the level of expectation is huge. Are Barça capable of repeating last season’s treble of La Liga, Copa del Rey and UEFA Champions League?
I want to win everything, whichever club I play for. That said, repeating the treble will be a tall order. That would need the team to play at its very peak for two seasons in a row and I think that’s very difficult. On the other hand, we’re very strong mentally and we’ve got last year’s experience under our belts, so why not?

How do Barcelona manage to keep performing to such a standard, particularly with the physical demands involved?
We work really hard. There’s a fine balance made between training and matches. We have a group of specialists at Barcelona who prepare everything to make sure that we aren’t put under too much strain and we go into matches in tip-top shape. When you’re playing at this level you know that the games will come thick and fast, that’s why the right physical preparation is so important.

In December you and your team-mates are set to take part in the FIFA Club World Cup in the United Arab Emirates. What would winning that competition mean to you?
The Club World Cup is something that so many players want to win, while remaining a competition in which relatively few take part. Barcelona have that opportunity now and we’re really fired up for it. Particularly because it’s a trophy we haven't won yet. It’s one of the main objectives for the club, players and fans this season.

With Sweden having missed out on a place at next year's FIFA World Cup™, could this December’s tournament be your chance to prove yourself on the world stage?
It was disappointing not to have reached the World Cup with Sweden, so the Club World Cup is very important for me. I treat every competition I take part in as vital, and I always want to win. And this tournament even more so. I’m going to be excited to be there and I’ll do everything I can to help my team to success.

Does that setback with Sweden still rankle?
It was a shame. I’ve already appeared at two World Cups and two EUROs and I love tournaments like that. That’s why it hurts not to be in South Africa. But I’ve also got to be realistic, I play for a national team that isn’t a global powerhouse. We’re never among the favourites to win and though we’re usually able to do enough to qualify, this time luck was against us.
It's a very important game. Barcelona have a very attacking mentality, and I’m sure that we’ll win and score plenty of goals.
Zlatan Ibrahimovic on Barcelona's upcoming game with Real Madrid

Will we see Zlatan Ibrahimovic grace the FIFA World Cup in future?
At the moment I’m sticking to my decision not to play for Sweden anymore, but nobody knows what can happen in the future, so I’m not ruling anything out for the time being. We’ll see what happens.

Returning to the present, you are set to take on old club Inter this week. How does that make you feel?
Inter are a very good team and this is a vital match in which we have no margin for error. If we win then we’ll take charge of the group. So far we’ve had a lot of bad luck in our Champions League games. It’s a very big game for me and I’m in an optimistic mood, I believe that it will turn out the way I want.

Then on Sunday 29 November comes El Clásico against Real Madrid. You’ve quite a week ahead.
Of course it’s a very important game. Not just for us, but for the club, the supporters, even for the neutrals and the world at large. Nobody is indifferent to this match. We’re playing at home and I’m sure we’re going to win.

Is a repeat of last season’s 6-2 scoreline at the Bernabeu possible?
I don’t know if it’ll be so one-sided, I don’t even think about how many goals we’ll score. But Barcelona have a very attacking mentality and I’m sure that we’ll win and score plenty of goals.

FIFA Master

FIFA Master - International Master (MAS) in Management, Law and Humanities of Sport

The FIFA Master - International Master (MAS) in Management, Law and Humanities of Sport is a unique Sports Master programme, initiated by FIFA, coordinated by the CIES (International Center for sports Studies) and taught by three prestigious European Universities: De Montfort University (Leicester, UK), SDA Bocconi School of Management (Milan, IT) and Neuchâtel University (Neuchâtel, CH).

Every year, from late September to early July, a truly international group, approximately 30 postgraduates from over 20 nationalities, is selected among candidates coming from all over the world to participate in this full-time course. Students will attend exciting classes covering all major issues that sports organisations face today. They will hear from qualified professionals and academics and have the opportunity to visit prestigious sporting locations.

To download to brochure of the FIFA Master, please click on the right link.

For further details and in order to apply please click on the link on the right to fifamaster.org.
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Powell: England women improving

Powell: England women improving
(PA) Thursday 10 September 2009
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England coach Hope Powell believes her side will taste future success despite a heavy loss to all-conquering Germany in the UEFA EURO 2009 final tonight.

England were ultimately no match for the much-fancied Germans as, after a spirited early effort, they went down 6-2 in a compelling encounter in Helsinki. Powell's side twice halved two-goal deficits through Karen Carney and Kelly Smith but world champions Germany could not be stopped as they powered to a fifth successive European title with a strong finish.

"The scoreline sounds like a walloping but I don't think it was," Powell said. "We started very brightly and we still believed we were in it at 3-2. We still went out to win the game, even though we were 6-2 down. We still wanted to attack and we have to applaud that.
They kept the ball very well and we made a few unforced errors that put us on the back foot and made it difficult. We played well in patches but they moved the ball very quickly and that is a lesson for us.
England women's coach Hope Powell after the loss to Germany

"I truly believe they feel they were in a game tonight," she went on. "We're happy with what we have achieved in reaching the final but not satisfied. I think this will make the girls hungrier next time and one day it will be our day."

Inka Grings, who finished as the tournament's top goalscorer with six, and veteran Birgit Prinz, to take her record international tally to 125, both struck twice for the holders. Melanie Behringer and Kim Kulig were also on target for the mighty Germans, who have not been beaten in tournament football since 1999.

"I think you have to give the Germans some credit, they were very clinical," Powell added. "They kept the ball very well and we made a few unforced errors that put us on the back foot and made it difficult. We played well in patches but they moved the ball very quickly and that is a lesson for us.

Germany coach Silvia Neid admitted England had made life tough before her side eventually secured their seventh EURO title in eight attempts.

"I wouldn't have imagined the final would have eight goals," Neid said. "Two very good teams made it a really good final and the game went up and down. I thought England could have got back into the game, even at 4-2 down. I only felt confident at 5-2 when England started to look tired and we were still enthusiastic."

Player of the match Grings, who has now won the golden boot in two successive EURO finals, added: "I am very happy with the awards but don't forget the team. With team-mates like this you will always look good and it is just a beautiful night."
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Rating: 5.0

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Volkmar
13/09/2009 at 16:55
Volkmar (USA)
I was a bit too hasty with my remarks and take my comment back. I thought this was going to be the only article on this Euro championship game, but another article came out the following day which did focus on the champions.
silverfern10
11/09/2009 at 06:22
silverfern10 (Germany)
Volkmar you are so right, the German women did it very well and this must be the real story 6:2 is great and they are a absolutly fantastic team with lot of power! GRATULATIONS from New Zealand, GOOD JOB GERMANY!
Volkmar
11/09/2009 at 04:58
Volkmar (USA)
This article COMPLETELY baffles me! The German women have now won 5 CONSECUTIVE EURO'S, winning 26 consecutive matches at the Euro's since 1993, and have also now beaten the English 19 consecutive times. Furthermore, the German women also now won 7 of the last 8 Euro's. But the headline is "Powell: England Women Improving"?!?! You MUST be kidding me! Where else in the soccer world has a feat like winning 5 consecutive Euro's been equaled or even approached? That's like an NFL team winning 5 straight Superbowls, and 7 of the last 8, but the headline and focus of the ensuing article is about the losing side's coach. Whoever wrote this thing is either out of touch with reality, or is a closet England fan. Well done on reaching the final, England. But the real story by a LONG SHOT is the German Women. Get it right next time please.
nannumajsi
11/09/2009 at 03:33
nannumajsi (Malta)
In their five games up to the final Germany had scored 1,2,3,4 & 5 goals. Pre-final I thought "Could they manage six in this game?" and they did.
AmigoDaOnsa
10/09/2009 at 21:28
AmigoDaOnsa (Brazil)
Congratulations to England for good performance in this competition.
Reggaeboy99
10/09/2009 at 21:25
Reggaeboy99 (Jamaica)
As expected.The germans were simply too good.
ljc1979
10/09/2009 at 20:56
ljc1979 (England)
Unlucky Ladies :( But gotta give credit to Germany, they were the better team! As for there second goal - What a thunderbolt!Was the best goal i've seen in Woman's Footie! More games should be played on TV!

German juggernaut rolls on

German juggernaut rolls on
(FIFA.com) Friday 11 September 2009
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In many ways, it was the same old story at the UEFA Women's EURO. There was the odd minor scare, but Germany's vice-like grip on the continental title never really looked like being relinquished.

Yet although there was an element of predictability to the world champions' fifth successive European crown, this was a tournament that offered more encouraging signs about the rising levels of skill and entertainment in the female game ahead of the 2011 FIFA Women's World Cup™. The final, a pulsating contest that was a great deal closer than the 6-2 scoreline might suggest, was typical of the fare on offer, with fans at the Finnish showpiece treated to plenty of individual flair and outstanding goals.

Hope Powell's England were worthy finalists too, and proved along with the likes of Italy and the Netherlands that they are now just as big a threat to Germany's dominance as the traditionally powerful Nordic nations. Yet there could only be one winner, and the style with which Sylvia Neid's team swept to the title underlined that the Germans will be the team to beat when they host the world finals in two years' time.

Grings back with a bang
With over 1400 caps between them, this was an experienced German squad that relied heavily on some familiar faces, from Nadine Angerer in goals through Kerstin Garefrekes in midfield to the evergreen Birgit Prinz in attack. Intriguingly, however, Prinz went into the final without having scored in any of the earlier rounds, and smarting from criticism in the German media that suggested her powers were on the wane.

Typically, the doubters were answered in emphatic fashion as the German captain scored twice in a vintage performance, suggesting that this veteran of four FIFA Women's World Cups will still be a force to be reckoned with at her fifth. Yet even Prinz would admit that her contribution in Finland was overshadowed by that of her strike partner. Inka Grings' talent has never been in question - indeed, she finished top scorer at the last EURO - but some messy off-the-field issues ensured that she spent the intervening years in the international wilderness.
It was an incredible game and a dream came true after all the personal setbacks over the last few years. We played like real world champions.
Inka Grings

Now, at 30, Grings is back, seemingly better than ever, with a double in the final helping the Duisburg striker to a six-goal haul and an unprecedented second top scorer award. "It couldn't be better for me and the whole team," she enthused after yesterday's final. "It was an incredible game and a dream came true after all the personal setbacks over the last few years. We played like real world champions."

And Grings was by no means the only standout for a German team whose strength in depth was underlined by the fact that eight of their 18 goals leading up to the final were scored by substitutes. Neid will have been encouraged that three of those goals came from Fatmire Bajramaj, the glamour girl of German football who showed signs that she is ready to cast off the 'promising' tag and play a major role in her side's defence of their world title. Arguably even more heartening were the dynamic performances of Kim Kulig, who though still just 19, showed why she is already a regular starter at the heart of the German midfield.

Kulig is one to watch in 2011, and DFB president Theo Zwanziger admitted that the focus of everyone in German women's football has already turned to the global showpiece. "I think this title will help us promote 2011," he said. "People could see today that this team is capable of winning the World Cup. Our ambitions are high and the team sent out a strong message."

Dutch delight as Swedes slump
England, despite a shock 3-2 defeat to Italy in their opening match, were undoubtedly the best of the rest. The energy and creativity of Karen Carney, who registered more assists than anyone else in Finland, was a major feature of their play, while the emergence of the speedy Eniola Aluko alongside Kelly Smith suggested Hope Powell's team will be genuine contenders at Germany 2011.

Another team who recovered from an early blow to impress were Norway. They went all the way to the last four, in fact, thanks to a superb 3-1 quarter-final win over Sweden, although the conclusion of the tournament brought the end of an era as coach Bjarne Berntsen stepped aside to be replaced by Eli Landsem. Elsewhere, Melania Gabbiadini impressed for the ever-improving Italians, while the Netherlands emerged as the tournament's surprise packages, marching all the way to the semi-finals, eliminating France en route, before succumbing to an extra time defeat at the hands of England.

All told, this latest EURO was as enjoyable as it was encouraging. It has also served merely to whet the appetite for the feast of women's football coming our way in less than two years' time.
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Rating: 5.0

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Volkmar
14/09/2009 at 03:49
Volkmar (USA)
Lutontown88, our women have now won 5 consecutive Euros, and 7 of the last 8. They’ve also now won 26 consecutive matches in the Euros dating back to ’93, and dare I say it, have won 19 straight against the English women. They’ve won back to back Women’s World Cups in 2003 and 2007, and also finished Runner-Up in ’95. The English women have nothing notable to speak of in World Cup play, and have managed to only finish Runner-Up in two Euros. On to the men… Germany has won 3 World Cups and finished Runner-Up 4 times. In the Euros, the German men have also won 3, and have been Runner-Up another 3 times. The English men have won 1 World Cup in ‘66 and never finished Runner-Up. They’ve done nothing notable in Euro play. It’s a landslide, and it must be sad for you to know that BOTH our women and men FAR outperform the English at the beautiful sport your country is credited with creating. So it’s understandable in some respects that your only recourse is an immature attempt at humor. You have my sympathy.
mo3taz2008
12/09/2009 at 00:57
mo3taz2008 (Egypt)
congratulations , really the german team is no.1 & they reserved the title , now we will wait for the new ranking to see germany come back to the top
xyz420
12/09/2009 at 00:02
xyz420 (USA)
German girls can play
willroberto
11/09/2009 at 23:16
willroberto (Brazil)
so missing the Confederations Cup for women
HeathenKing
11/09/2009 at 20:40
HeathenKing (Jordan)
Congratulations to the ever ruling Wotan's Volk...
lukas182
11/09/2009 at 16:17
lukas182 (England)
lol@lutontown88. We'll see who has the last laugh when England go out of the men's world cup in yet another embarrassing quarter final defeat on penalties!! You know Germany is the most successful European footballing nation (3 world cups, 3 euro championships), and that is the second time in a couple of months we've beaten you in a competition final. Our women's team rules, look at the result. Bet you a fiver we do better than you in 2010. Ha, ha, ha...
HarrySamba
11/09/2009 at 16:12
HarrySamba (England)
Well played Germany, Congratulations! Germany were just too strong and experienced for England. Sylvia Neid is a very disciplined Manager too. I respect her alot. As a Brazil fan though, I really hope that Brazil wins in Germany 2011 for a change rather than Germany or USA. GO MARTA, GO BRAZIL! Brazil were very unlucky in China on the last two occasions, I hope they do one better.
Germany1984
11/09/2009 at 15:19
Germany1984 (USA)
Congrats to the woman's team. Now its time for the men to win 2010.
lutontown88
11/09/2009 at 13:44
lutontown88 (England)
lol @ darrenc-79 Greatest at women's football, thats because your'e all women. :D
darrenc-79
11/09/2009 at 12:19
darrenc-79 (Malta)
come on GERMANY we are the dreatest in womens football being currently double world and european champions. at the moment we are also under 17 and under 19 european champions in men football plus vice european champs in senior level. icing on the cake should be to win the world cup next year. that would be just

German juggernaut rolls on

German juggernaut rolls on
(FIFA.com) Friday 11 September 2009
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In many ways, it was the same old story at the UEFA Women's EURO. There was the odd minor scare, but Germany's vice-like grip on the continental title never really looked like being relinquished.

Yet although there was an element of predictability to the world champions' fifth successive European crown, this was a tournament that offered more encouraging signs about the rising levels of skill and entertainment in the female game ahead of the 2011 FIFA Women's World Cup™. The final, a pulsating contest that was a great deal closer than the 6-2 scoreline might suggest, was typical of the fare on offer, with fans at the Finnish showpiece treated to plenty of individual flair and outstanding goals.

Hope Powell's England were worthy finalists too, and proved along with the likes of Italy and the Netherlands that they are now just as big a threat to Germany's dominance as the traditionally powerful Nordic nations. Yet there could only be one winner, and the style with which Sylvia Neid's team swept to the title underlined that the Germans will be the team to beat when they host the world finals in two years' time.

Grings back with a bang
With over 1400 caps between them, this was an experienced German squad that relied heavily on some familiar faces, from Nadine Angerer in goals through Kerstin Garefrekes in midfield to the evergreen Birgit Prinz in attack. Intriguingly, however, Prinz went into the final without having scored in any of the earlier rounds, and smarting from criticism in the German media that suggested her powers were on the wane.

Typically, the doubters were answered in emphatic fashion as the German captain scored twice in a vintage performance, suggesting that this veteran of four FIFA Women's World Cups will still be a force to be reckoned with at her fifth. Yet even Prinz would admit that her contribution in Finland was overshadowed by that of her strike partner. Inka Grings' talent has never been in question - indeed, she finished top scorer at the last EURO - but some messy off-the-field issues ensured that she spent the intervening years in the international wilderness.
It was an incredible game and a dream came true after all the personal setbacks over the last few years. We played like real world champions.
Inka Grings

Now, at 30, Grings is back, seemingly better than ever, with a double in the final helping the Duisburg striker to a six-goal haul and an unprecedented second top scorer award. "It couldn't be better for me and the whole team," she enthused after yesterday's final. "It was an incredible game and a dream came true after all the personal setbacks over the last few years. We played like real world champions."

And Grings was by no means the only standout for a German team whose strength in depth was underlined by the fact that eight of their 18 goals leading up to the final were scored by substitutes. Neid will have been encouraged that three of those goals came from Fatmire Bajramaj, the glamour girl of German football who showed signs that she is ready to cast off the 'promising' tag and play a major role in her side's defence of their world title. Arguably even more heartening were the dynamic performances of Kim Kulig, who though still just 19, showed why she is already a regular starter at the heart of the German midfield.

Kulig is one to watch in 2011, and DFB president Theo Zwanziger admitted that the focus of everyone in German women's football has already turned to the global showpiece. "I think this title will help us promote 2011," he said. "People could see today that this team is capable of winning the World Cup. Our ambitions are high and the team sent out a strong message."

Dutch delight as Swedes slump
England, despite a shock 3-2 defeat to Italy in their opening match, were undoubtedly the best of the rest. The energy and creativity of Karen Carney, who registered more assists than anyone else in Finland, was a major feature of their play, while the emergence of the speedy Eniola Aluko alongside Kelly Smith suggested Hope Powell's team will be genuine contenders at Germany 2011.

Another team who recovered from an early blow to impress were Norway. They went all the way to the last four, in fact, thanks to a superb 3-1 quarter-final win over Sweden, although the conclusion of the tournament brought the end of an era as coach Bjarne Berntsen stepped aside to be replaced by Eli Landsem. Elsewhere, Melania Gabbiadini impressed for the ever-improving Italians, while the Netherlands emerged as the tournament's surprise packages, marching all the way to the semi-finals, eliminating France en route, before succumbing to an extra time defeat at the hands of England.

All told, this latest EURO was as enjoyable as it was encouraging. It has also served merely to whet the appetite for the feast of women's football coming our way in less than two years' time.
Add your comment
12345
Rating: 5.0

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Volkmar
14/09/2009 at 03:49
Volkmar (USA)
Lutontown88, our women have now won 5 consecutive Euros, and 7 of the last 8. They’ve also now won 26 consecutive matches in the Euros dating back to ’93, and dare I say it, have won 19 straight against the English women. They’ve won back to back Women’s World Cups in 2003 and 2007, and also finished Runner-Up in ’95. The English women have nothing notable to speak of in World Cup play, and have managed to only finish Runner-Up in two Euros. On to the men… Germany has won 3 World Cups and finished Runner-Up 4 times. In the Euros, the German men have also won 3, and have been Runner-Up another 3 times. The English men have won 1 World Cup in ‘66 and never finished Runner-Up. They’ve done nothing notable in Euro play. It’s a landslide, and it must be sad for you to know that BOTH our women and men FAR outperform the English at the beautiful sport your country is credited with creating. So it’s understandable in some respects that your only recourse is an immature attempt at humor. You have my sympathy.
mo3taz2008
12/09/2009 at 00:57
mo3taz2008 (Egypt)
congratulations , really the german team is no.1 & they reserved the title , now we will wait for the new ranking to see germany come back to the top
xyz420
12/09/2009 at 00:02
xyz420 (USA)
German girls can play
willroberto
11/09/2009 at 23:16
willroberto (Brazil)
so missing the Confederations Cup for women
HeathenKing
11/09/2009 at 20:40
HeathenKing (Jordan)
Congratulations to the ever ruling Wotan's Volk...
lukas182
11/09/2009 at 16:17
lukas182 (England)
lol@lutontown88. We'll see who has the last laugh when England go out of the men's world cup in yet another embarrassing quarter final defeat on penalties!! You know Germany is the most successful European footballing nation (3 world cups, 3 euro championships), and that is the second time in a couple of months we've beaten you in a competition final. Our women's team rules, look at the result. Bet you a fiver we do better than you in 2010. Ha, ha, ha...
HarrySamba
11/09/2009 at 16:12
HarrySamba (England)
Well played Germany, Congratulations! Germany were just too strong and experienced for England. Sylvia Neid is a very disciplined Manager too. I respect her alot. As a Brazil fan though, I really hope that Brazil wins in Germany 2011 for a change rather than Germany or USA. GO MARTA, GO BRAZIL! Brazil were very unlucky in China on the last two occasions, I hope they do one better.
Germany1984
11/09/2009 at 15:19
Germany1984 (USA)
Congrats to the woman's team. Now its time for the men to win 2010.
lutontown88
11/09/2009 at 13:44
lutontown88 (England)
lol @ darrenc-79 Greatest at women's football, thats because your'e all women. :D
darrenc-79
11/09/2009 at 12:19
darrenc-79 (Malta)
come on GERMANY we are the dreatest in womens football being currently double world and european champions. at the moment we are also under 17 and under 19 european champions in men football plus vice european champs in senior level. icing on the cake should be to win the world cup next year. that would be just fabolous