Let's talk sport... ...you, me, TODOS.
The stadia and city cultures of the Euro 2012 hosts
Poland. Gdansk, Poznan, Warsaw, Wroclaw. Ukraine. Donestk, Kharkiv, Kyiv, Lviv. These are the 8 hosts cities of the EURO 2012 tournament. The opening match of Poland-Greece will be played in Warsaw and the final match will be played in Kyiv. There is an entire set in between of interesting cities and stadiums to learn about this EURO 2012. Familiarize yourself with the host cities out of pure curiosity or get to know where your favorite international team will play, there is always an opportunity to learn about these the geography and culture of these two countries, their stadia, and their city cultures. Take a look below for 4 selected videos (prepared by Goal.com) to add to your football culture and knowledge. +Panayiotis Gialamas for TODOSLifestyle +June 2012
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Spain...are the European 2012 Winners
The case for Spain to win once again lift the European Cup.
Football is a special game full of special players. Now we could go ahead and talk about the special qualities of the Spanish players but that's what everyone talks about with Spain. The next thing that everyone talks about with Spain is their Tiki-Taka style of play known for their combinations of passing carousels that daze the opponent over the course of 90 minutes but we're not going to talk about that either. With that said I want to coin in a new term, "New Football World Order" or NWFO. This refers to what it realistically takes to win one of these major competitions (European Championship, World Cup, Champions League). This NWFO has been a recent trend among winners in the last couple years starting around the time Spain won Euro 2008 and it refers to in order to win a major international competition you don't only need good players you need great players that are winners. There is a fine line between good footballers and great footballers and that is the difference between getting a result when your team needs it. Now allow me to make my case. First let's talk about the past.
Past
In 2006 Spain was known as the team that never could. In the quarter-finals of the 2006 FIFA World Cup they came up against an experienced French side (past winners of World Cup 1998 and Euro 2000) that was on a mission to make one last final. They had great not good players like Thierry Henry, Patrick Viera, and of course Zinedine Zidane. Players that had won it all. They matched up against a young and capable Spanish side that had blown past the group stage. In fact in that match Spain led 1-0 after a David Villa penalty, it looked like they were on their way. Until France struck back with three goals with Zidane scoring to seal the match and Spain's fate. Those good Spanish players lost to great French players. The Spanish tasted defeat and it would fuel a thunderous campaign towards the build up to Euro 2008. And the rest is history...not quite yet. Spain still had to become a great team. When did that exactly happen. Well it may have happened on the pitch against World Champions Italy in a quarterfinal match. The lead up to the match had Italy with their experienced World Cup winning side now with their eyes on the Euro. Italy started off shaky getting destroyed by the Dutch but they managed to recover and pass under the radar as they tend to do. Spain on the other hand looked like the side in 2006 winning all 3 matches in the group stage. The two sides played through an intense 90 minutes 0-0 of football with Spain having more of the possession. They ended up going to penalties and the Spanish were underdogs of course for two reasons. One, they were facing the Italian side that won the World Cup in penalties. Two, they were notorious for always disappointing. But surprisingly Spain went through. It was a brave win for the Spanish side that would soon conquer Europe then the World. Spain ended up reaching a final where they faced a determined German side that was looking to lift another European Cup as they great German teams before in the past. It was to be Germany again or Spain at last. Fernando Torres scored the only goal of the match as Spain dominated Germany with their slick passing game. Spain were the European Champions. Full of talent and now a side full of winners. A quality that under the NFWO states that only the teams that realistically have a shot at winning a major competition. Spain are a side not only full of great players but they are a decorated side full of winners. In this last cycle (4 years) teams that have won major competitions have been teams that fall under the NFWO.
New Football World Order
The NFWO is my theory to explain the winning formula in football for the last cycle (4 years). It suggests that a team can only realistically win a major competition (World Cup, European Cup, Champions League) if and only if they have winning footballers leading their side. More interestingly let's look at the 4 finalists of the World Cup in 2010 and see how NFWO is in play. The final 4 teams were Spain, Netherlands, Germany and Uruguay. Spain had the Barcelona 8 plus 2 from Real Madrid and 1 from Villareal in their starting line up against the Dutch in the Final. Of those 11 players 9 of them had won the Champions League. Barcelona having won the year before and almost reaching the final losing to Inter Milan led by Jose Mourinho and Wesley Sneijder. Inter went on to beat Bayern who was led by the incredible form of Arjen Robben in the Champions League. Those two protagonists in the 2010 Champions League final for some reason happened to be Spain's opposition in the World Cup Final. Another Dutch player that made a big impact in the midfield exerting his authority was Mark van Bommel, who captained Bayern to the Champions League Final. Good players get praised, great players make Finals and win. Coincidence about the Spanish-Dutch final in 2010? I think not. Equally as interesting is the case for Germany and Uruguay. Germany was a side led by the great play of their youngster. Of the players that were protagonists for Germany 3 of them played in the 2010 Champions League Final again players that are winners not just good players. Bayern players captained by Philipp Lahm, Bastian Schweinsteiger and FIFA World Cup 2010 Best Young Player Award Winner Thomas Müller led the German side to 3rd place finish losing to the Spanish in the semi-final in match similar to the Euro 2008 Final. As for Uruguay they were led by a player that was on fire scoring winning goals for Atletico Madrid in the Europa League Final that year. That player was Diego Forlan, leading his side to a European title that year. He was in red hot form in the Europa League scoring a winning goal in extra time at Anfield against Liverpool and two goals in the Europa League Final. He carried on in the World Cup leading Uruguay to a fourth place finish and won the award for the Best Player at the 2012 World Cup. How about the great Brazil? Why didn't Brazil do well in the World Cup, they crashed out against the Dutch. In 2010 Brazil was led by Kaka, Luis Fabiano and Robinho as their playmakers to win another World Cup. Kaka, Luis Fabiano and Robinho had disappointing seasons and didn't win any titles or play in any Finals. Only Kaka in 2007 before NFWO came into play so you can say they were good players but not winners and that hurt Brazil in end, who fell to the Dutch on goals created by guess who? Wesley Sneider and Arjen Robben (winners).
The Present
The Spanish, Dutch and Germans are the three favorites to life the European Cup. They are the three sides with the most decorated players. Germany having the Bayern players dispute a Champions League Final this year will be there contending. The Dutch have a powerful side with experienced players from Champions League Finals and a World Cup Final experience that left them with a bad taste. Spain the side that defeated the Dutch and Germans in 2012 have once a again familiar faces making them the favorites. In fact, these are the 3 teams that have contested the last 2 Finals (Euro 2008, World Cup 2010) and hold familiar faces that we've seen in Champions League Finals demonstrate that we're probably going to see them again in the Euro 2012 final. Expect to see Spain in yet again another final, those same Barcelona players that we've seen Champions League finals playing against either Dutch or German players that we've seen in the past Finals as well. That is what the NFWO defines at least. +JG:PG for TODOSLifestyle +June 2012
Football is a special game full of special players. Now we could go ahead and talk about the special qualities of the Spanish players but that's what everyone talks about with Spain. The next thing that everyone talks about with Spain is their Tiki-Taka style of play known for their combinations of passing carousels that daze the opponent over the course of 90 minutes but we're not going to talk about that either. With that said I want to coin in a new term, "New Football World Order" or NWFO. This refers to what it realistically takes to win one of these major competitions (European Championship, World Cup, Champions League). This NWFO has been a recent trend among winners in the last couple years starting around the time Spain won Euro 2008 and it refers to in order to win a major international competition you don't only need good players you need great players that are winners. There is a fine line between good footballers and great footballers and that is the difference between getting a result when your team needs it. Now allow me to make my case. First let's talk about the past.
Past
In 2006 Spain was known as the team that never could. In the quarter-finals of the 2006 FIFA World Cup they came up against an experienced French side (past winners of World Cup 1998 and Euro 2000) that was on a mission to make one last final. They had great not good players like Thierry Henry, Patrick Viera, and of course Zinedine Zidane. Players that had won it all. They matched up against a young and capable Spanish side that had blown past the group stage. In fact in that match Spain led 1-0 after a David Villa penalty, it looked like they were on their way. Until France struck back with three goals with Zidane scoring to seal the match and Spain's fate. Those good Spanish players lost to great French players. The Spanish tasted defeat and it would fuel a thunderous campaign towards the build up to Euro 2008. And the rest is history...not quite yet. Spain still had to become a great team. When did that exactly happen. Well it may have happened on the pitch against World Champions Italy in a quarterfinal match. The lead up to the match had Italy with their experienced World Cup winning side now with their eyes on the Euro. Italy started off shaky getting destroyed by the Dutch but they managed to recover and pass under the radar as they tend to do. Spain on the other hand looked like the side in 2006 winning all 3 matches in the group stage. The two sides played through an intense 90 minutes 0-0 of football with Spain having more of the possession. They ended up going to penalties and the Spanish were underdogs of course for two reasons. One, they were facing the Italian side that won the World Cup in penalties. Two, they were notorious for always disappointing. But surprisingly Spain went through. It was a brave win for the Spanish side that would soon conquer Europe then the World. Spain ended up reaching a final where they faced a determined German side that was looking to lift another European Cup as they great German teams before in the past. It was to be Germany again or Spain at last. Fernando Torres scored the only goal of the match as Spain dominated Germany with their slick passing game. Spain were the European Champions. Full of talent and now a side full of winners. A quality that under the NFWO states that only the teams that realistically have a shot at winning a major competition. Spain are a side not only full of great players but they are a decorated side full of winners. In this last cycle (4 years) teams that have won major competitions have been teams that fall under the NFWO.
New Football World Order
The NFWO is my theory to explain the winning formula in football for the last cycle (4 years). It suggests that a team can only realistically win a major competition (World Cup, European Cup, Champions League) if and only if they have winning footballers leading their side. More interestingly let's look at the 4 finalists of the World Cup in 2010 and see how NFWO is in play. The final 4 teams were Spain, Netherlands, Germany and Uruguay. Spain had the Barcelona 8 plus 2 from Real Madrid and 1 from Villareal in their starting line up against the Dutch in the Final. Of those 11 players 9 of them had won the Champions League. Barcelona having won the year before and almost reaching the final losing to Inter Milan led by Jose Mourinho and Wesley Sneijder. Inter went on to beat Bayern who was led by the incredible form of Arjen Robben in the Champions League. Those two protagonists in the 2010 Champions League final for some reason happened to be Spain's opposition in the World Cup Final. Another Dutch player that made a big impact in the midfield exerting his authority was Mark van Bommel, who captained Bayern to the Champions League Final. Good players get praised, great players make Finals and win. Coincidence about the Spanish-Dutch final in 2010? I think not. Equally as interesting is the case for Germany and Uruguay. Germany was a side led by the great play of their youngster. Of the players that were protagonists for Germany 3 of them played in the 2010 Champions League Final again players that are winners not just good players. Bayern players captained by Philipp Lahm, Bastian Schweinsteiger and FIFA World Cup 2010 Best Young Player Award Winner Thomas Müller led the German side to 3rd place finish losing to the Spanish in the semi-final in match similar to the Euro 2008 Final. As for Uruguay they were led by a player that was on fire scoring winning goals for Atletico Madrid in the Europa League Final that year. That player was Diego Forlan, leading his side to a European title that year. He was in red hot form in the Europa League scoring a winning goal in extra time at Anfield against Liverpool and two goals in the Europa League Final. He carried on in the World Cup leading Uruguay to a fourth place finish and won the award for the Best Player at the 2012 World Cup. How about the great Brazil? Why didn't Brazil do well in the World Cup, they crashed out against the Dutch. In 2010 Brazil was led by Kaka, Luis Fabiano and Robinho as their playmakers to win another World Cup. Kaka, Luis Fabiano and Robinho had disappointing seasons and didn't win any titles or play in any Finals. Only Kaka in 2007 before NFWO came into play so you can say they were good players but not winners and that hurt Brazil in end, who fell to the Dutch on goals created by guess who? Wesley Sneider and Arjen Robben (winners).
The Present
The Spanish, Dutch and Germans are the three favorites to life the European Cup. They are the three sides with the most decorated players. Germany having the Bayern players dispute a Champions League Final this year will be there contending. The Dutch have a powerful side with experienced players from Champions League Finals and a World Cup Final experience that left them with a bad taste. Spain the side that defeated the Dutch and Germans in 2012 have once a again familiar faces making them the favorites. In fact, these are the 3 teams that have contested the last 2 Finals (Euro 2008, World Cup 2010) and hold familiar faces that we've seen in Champions League Finals demonstrate that we're probably going to see them again in the Euro 2012 final. Expect to see Spain in yet again another final, those same Barcelona players that we've seen Champions League finals playing against either Dutch or German players that we've seen in the past Finals as well. That is what the NFWO defines at least. +JG:PG for TODOSLifestyle +June 2012
The case for Germany in Euro 2012
I have been a huge fan of Germany Football team, ever since I was 5. Now, for the first time, I am actually in the time for euro matches. I am going to give you reasons to support Germany as much as I do this summer, and when they win, we can all celebrate, here on TODOSLifestyle. Unlike the guys in TODOS, I am more of the emotional football fan than a technical one, but I know a thing or two of why Germany is likely to win this year in Euro Championships: German national team has the courageous coach, who has dropped the legend Ballack from his team for 2012, just to give a chance to his younger players. That shows this coach will not let anything get in the way of taking his team all the way to the top. We all watched an amazing performance by Germany’s very young team in World Cup 2010. Since then, they have only got better. They have the youngest team in Euro this year. History has proven they win with the youngsters. Germany might not do that well when the whole world is watching, but they do wonders when it comes to European championships. They have the great advantage of having the 19-year old, Mario Gotze , who as many believe is the next Messi in the making. His moves in the field are breathtaking. We all have seen the incredible opportunities Philip Lahm creates in the game. And the last but not least, The dedicated fans of Germany from all over the world, all their support and excitement (nail paintings/ face paintings, etc) will be yet another factor making Germany shine this summer, more than ever! IF YOU WANT TO ENJOY WATCHING BEAUTIFUL FOOTBALL THIS SUMMER, TUNE ON GERMANY FOOTBALL, Deutschland Gehen. +Soodeh Nezam for TODOSLIfestyle +June 2012
Tactical Greece in the Euro 2012
Playing style
Greece is getting better at holding the ball. They are more comfortable playing with quick passes. However, they are only successful at holding the ball around the center field and not more towards their opponent’s goal. When the center midfield has the ball the strikers are running forward for over-the-top balls or through passes, instead of checking to the ball and giving it back or turning in order to advance the ball and the team as a whole more up the field. The strikers need to hold the ball or distribute it, and with players like Gekas/Salipingidis up top this is not going to happen. And so, Greece has a problem of scoring goals. They are going to come from a switch of the ball to a outside midfielder/winger that will cut in for a shot or a header from a spot kick. Another issue from the Armenia game was that the Greek squad needs to find a suitable penalty kick taker. Samaras nonchalantly missed his penalty due to his overconfidence from winning it, while Katsouranis missed also from not being used to striking penalty shots. I would advise a player like Ninis, Maniatis, or Karagounis taking a penalty chance.
Team Makeup
Goalkeeping - Sifakis should be a starting keeper over Chalkias. He has enough experience, is quick to get down to the ground for saves, and is comfortable with receiving passes in his box.
Defense - The youngster Kyriakos is quite a player. Starting his first game in the pre-Euro friendlies, he is a commander in the center of defense as a great aerial threat on free kicks, producing the only goal against Armenia. The Monaco man Tzavellas is out of form for sure, and so Holebas looks to be the first choice, which does add the probability of some runs from the left defense. Sokratis is comfortable at the right back position, but hopefully Torosidis, the Olympiakos star, will be back from injury to give a lot of flexibility on the right defense and Sokratis can commander the center of defense with his fellow Bundesliga teammate, Kyriakos Papadopoulos. However, Avraam Papadopoulos is an adept and ready substitution in the center defense. In the center of midfield, Maniatis is showing to be a great asset.
Midfield- Like his teammate from Olympiakos, Maniatis shows a lot of flexibility, playing in the center midfield (as a holding midfielder) as well as right back. I would like to see him start in the center with the experienced, yet mobile Panathinaikos midfielder, Katsouranis. Now on the right side, Fetfatzidis plays a great role because has a killer dribble and can produce a pass or shot as he cuts in from the right. The youngster Fetfa is also really good at taking down the ball from a long switch from the left defense or midfield which is important in a technically average Greece side. Karagounis is a big question this Euro 2012. He seems to play an important role in the smoothness of the Greek playing, but if he can maintain a starting position with 60 or so minutes is a big question. This brings to mind, the youngster Fortounis, who Santos has shown interest in. He can play in the center midfield or even as a right winger, which could be important in securing Sotiris Ninis a spot in the attack instead of midfield.
Attack - Salpingidis used to be the quick, hardworking winger, but he has become lost of touch and pace. Samaras is the one player haunted by inconsistency, not only in a single season, but also in a single game. He has the potential to pass defenders with a nice run as well as making a bad pass or missing a penalty. His inconsistency is frightening. On the other hand, Sotiris Ninis, the boy wonder, is expected to perform this Euro 2012 as well as he should be. Ninis has the technical touch, creativity, and shot that can produce a result from nothing. He is quick, fit, and determined player, and Greece starting 11 needs that. As the pure striker role, there are some problems. Gekas is out of shape. He has the knack for scoring goals, but you can not depend on him. Gekas is the striker that surprises. He will score goals when you don’t expect them. He is not the player that will score players when you need them. Liberopoulos was chosen for experience at 36, and it might backfire. Players like Athanasiadis and Christodoulopoulos could had a spot up front. That leaves Mitroglou as a necessary substitution to inject energy when needed from the strikers. Hope to see Mitroglou produce in the time given to him.
Greece is getting better at holding the ball. They are more comfortable playing with quick passes. However, they are only successful at holding the ball around the center field and not more towards their opponent’s goal. When the center midfield has the ball the strikers are running forward for over-the-top balls or through passes, instead of checking to the ball and giving it back or turning in order to advance the ball and the team as a whole more up the field. The strikers need to hold the ball or distribute it, and with players like Gekas/Salipingidis up top this is not going to happen. And so, Greece has a problem of scoring goals. They are going to come from a switch of the ball to a outside midfielder/winger that will cut in for a shot or a header from a spot kick. Another issue from the Armenia game was that the Greek squad needs to find a suitable penalty kick taker. Samaras nonchalantly missed his penalty due to his overconfidence from winning it, while Katsouranis missed also from not being used to striking penalty shots. I would advise a player like Ninis, Maniatis, or Karagounis taking a penalty chance.
Team Makeup
Goalkeeping - Sifakis should be a starting keeper over Chalkias. He has enough experience, is quick to get down to the ground for saves, and is comfortable with receiving passes in his box.
Defense - The youngster Kyriakos is quite a player. Starting his first game in the pre-Euro friendlies, he is a commander in the center of defense as a great aerial threat on free kicks, producing the only goal against Armenia. The Monaco man Tzavellas is out of form for sure, and so Holebas looks to be the first choice, which does add the probability of some runs from the left defense. Sokratis is comfortable at the right back position, but hopefully Torosidis, the Olympiakos star, will be back from injury to give a lot of flexibility on the right defense and Sokratis can commander the center of defense with his fellow Bundesliga teammate, Kyriakos Papadopoulos. However, Avraam Papadopoulos is an adept and ready substitution in the center defense. In the center of midfield, Maniatis is showing to be a great asset.
Midfield- Like his teammate from Olympiakos, Maniatis shows a lot of flexibility, playing in the center midfield (as a holding midfielder) as well as right back. I would like to see him start in the center with the experienced, yet mobile Panathinaikos midfielder, Katsouranis. Now on the right side, Fetfatzidis plays a great role because has a killer dribble and can produce a pass or shot as he cuts in from the right. The youngster Fetfa is also really good at taking down the ball from a long switch from the left defense or midfield which is important in a technically average Greece side. Karagounis is a big question this Euro 2012. He seems to play an important role in the smoothness of the Greek playing, but if he can maintain a starting position with 60 or so minutes is a big question. This brings to mind, the youngster Fortounis, who Santos has shown interest in. He can play in the center midfield or even as a right winger, which could be important in securing Sotiris Ninis a spot in the attack instead of midfield.
Attack - Salpingidis used to be the quick, hardworking winger, but he has become lost of touch and pace. Samaras is the one player haunted by inconsistency, not only in a single season, but also in a single game. He has the potential to pass defenders with a nice run as well as making a bad pass or missing a penalty. His inconsistency is frightening. On the other hand, Sotiris Ninis, the boy wonder, is expected to perform this Euro 2012 as well as he should be. Ninis has the technical touch, creativity, and shot that can produce a result from nothing. He is quick, fit, and determined player, and Greece starting 11 needs that. As the pure striker role, there are some problems. Gekas is out of shape. He has the knack for scoring goals, but you can not depend on him. Gekas is the striker that surprises. He will score goals when you don’t expect them. He is not the player that will score players when you need them. Liberopoulos was chosen for experience at 36, and it might backfire. Players like Athanasiadis and Christodoulopoulos could had a spot up front. That leaves Mitroglou as a necessary substitution to inject energy when needed from the strikers. Hope to see Mitroglou produce in the time given to him.
Prediction
Overall, I would say that Greece’s chances in qualifying for the quarterfinals of the Euro 2012 depend heavily on their result of the first match. The Polish will be a quick, strong side that could give Greece many problems if Greece doesn’t hold the ball or attack consistently. Greece need to divert attention away from their strong defense by starting player like Fetfatzidis to dribble and cause commotion on the wing, Maniatis to help Katsouranis in holding the ball and making tackles in the center midfield, and Ninis for his creativity and energy. I predict a 2-2 result from the that first match. In the 2nd match, Greece will beat Czech Republic 1-0. The third match, Greece will tie 1-1.
+Panayiotis Gialamas for TODOSLifestyle +May 2012
Above are Greece's stars who play
in the Greek domestic league (from left to right): Kostas Katsouranis
#21 (Panathinaikos FC), Giannis Maniatis #2 (Olympiakos FC), Sotiris
Ninis #18 (Panathinaikos FC), Michalis Sifakis #13 (Aris FC), Giannis
Fetfaztidis #23 (Olympiakos FC).
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Needed Starting Lineup:
Sifakis Torosidis-Papastathopoulos-Kyriakos-Holebas Fetfatzidis-Maniatis-Katsouranis-Fortounis Ninis-Samaras (based on the reality that youngsters are needed for energy, excitement, and a chance as scoring goals and progressing) |
Santos' Realistic Starting Lineup:
Sifakis Torosidis-Papastathopoulos-Kyriakos-Holebas Fetfatzidis-Maniatis-Katsouranis-Samaras Ninis-Gekas (based on the idea that experience will produce results and that Gekas can deliver on his goals) |
3 Points on Why Italy Will Do Well and 1 On Why They Will Not
The Uncertainty of the Front Runners
Spain go into this tournament, obviously as hot favourites after winning the previous European Championships 4 years ago and as current World Champions so no doubt all eyes will be on them to perform with their fluid and incisive style of football. But the added pressure to retain the championship will definitely stack up against them and two main players Carles Puyol and David Villa will be missing. This means the Spanish go into the tournament missing a true leader and experienced centre back in Puyol, leaving them with a weak defense consisting of players such as Javi Martinez, who is a not a natural defender and Raul Albiol who has hardly played this year for Real Madrid to partner the ever dependable Gerard Pique. The Spanish will rely on their ball possession to restrict teams from actually having a go at the back four but their biggest loss is that of their prolific goalscorer. Villa has been Spain’s top scorer for the past 3 tournaments, Euro 2008 he topped the charts with 4 and in South Africa’s 2010 World Cup he was joint top scorer with 5, meaning Spain will have to rely on other sources for goals this time around. Underperforming Torres, internationally unproven Llorente, Pep’s unused Pedro and relatively unknown Negredo will have to step up to the task of filling Villa’s very large scoring shoes.
This year’s Germany team have been tagged by the media as the best group of players the national side have to offer since the early 90’s team and that says a lot for a team mainly composed of young players. The main issue though that clouds over the National side is the very high expectation of this young squad to perform. Most of the players coped very well in South Africa’s World Cup but expecting the side to repeat its fortunes and take a step further this time may just seem too much for the squad. To back this up the unexplainable loss of Bayern Munich in the Champions League final showed that although a certain Dutch man lost his side the cup, the German players in the squad had been psychologically affected. When the penalty shoot out took place most of them stepped back from taking any of the penalties except of one ever so determined Neuer. Last Saturday a weak German side, not containing any of Bayern’s players from that unfortunate night, lost heavily to the force of the Swiss by 5-3. It will be interesting to see how the German side will kick off their next match with the deflated Bayern players included.
Netherlands, undeniably the next team we are all expecting to challenge Spain and Germany to the title. A team full of great midfielders and two menacing strikers, Huntelaar and RVP. Huntelaar was this year Bundesliga’s top goal scorer with 29 goals and having a very productive 2011 – 2012 season for Schalke scoring a total of 48 goals in 47 appearances, which stat talks for itself. RVP this year has truly reached the greats of world football stars, considered by most as one of the best forwards on the continent, equal to the likes of Ronaldo and Messi. He managed to score in total 37 goals and assist 15 in 47 appearances for Wenger’s team in the process winning the Premier League Golden Boot, the PFA Players' Player of the Year and FWA Footballer of the Year and obviously getting into the PFA Premier League Team of the Year. But these very two top scorers are what is causing a distress to the Dutch national team. The media in Holland are stressing that both players should be playing and never left out of the squad meaning that Huntelaar has been given the central striking position shifting Van Persie to the wing of the attack, a positioned that he does not relish. Both players are used to being the main strikers at team level and at international level they seem to be out of position. Huntelaar doesn’t get the supply he requires as Van Persie who should be providing has both eyes set on goal but this means that from a wide position has more effort to get into a clear striking position. This showing was indicative when last Friday Holland suffered a shock loss to Bulgaria on home ground.
This leaves us with the team this post should be all about, Italy. This first point is an indication that Italy are not front runners but will be able to capitalised on the front runners uncertainties as would they should be considered the next in line. Any problem the other sides seem to have Italy do not. First off unlike the Spanish they have a solid back line in Buffon, Barzagli and Chiellini and striking options that seem fearless in the likes of Balotelli, Cassano and Di Natale. Second they don’t have any expectations mounting over them as the German’s do. The side include a mixture of youngsters and very experienced players which should give a balance to the squad. And third they have a unique and solid system which seems to suit all players. Prandelli is not the customary Italian coach conserving the lead and restricting players from attacking, he is very much unlike that giving players the freedom to express themselves. This brings us onto the next point.
The Qualifying Round
Throughout the qualifying stages Spain unsurprisingly had the highest average of possession but second in line where the Italians consisting of a total of 829 passes, a stat which would conclude the Spaniards aren’t the only tiki taka style team in the Euros. Prandelli has formed a side around the legend and reborn Juventus start man Adrea Pirlo. Juve this year went unbeaten and topped the Serie A and at the centre of this was Pirlo’s contribution, a free agent from AC Milan in last year’s summer transfer window. Pirlo has the ability to control games tempo by either holding up the ball and playing it along the back line or swiftly moving the ball from one wing to the other with his long passing range.
Another key point in the Qualifying stages was the Italy’s defence, which let in only 2 goals. Once again Prandelli has used the stronghold of Juve’s unbeaten backline to create a strong Italian defence. Barzagli, Chiellini, Bonucci and the ever present Buffon have all come from a successful season with the Serie A winners conceding only 20 goals in 38 appearances to star in the Euros and fight for clean sheets. Indisputably the Italians new style of possession play would have also contributed to the low goals conceded but the defenders of such calibre will not get beaten easily.
The Squad
The selection has been spot on by the Azzuris, no controversial players in or out. The squad boasts a fresh breath of young players that have performed well over the past year, players that are just reaching their peak and international proven players. I’m not going to ramble about Juve’s success once again but Italy will try and replicate what they have achieved. 3 of the back 4 and 2 of the 3 central midfielders are Juve players which should translate into confidence and a will to win.
The last world cup was a complete failure for players such as Buffon, De Rossi, Pirlo and Di Natale as they finished bottom of their group against the likes of Paraguay, Slovenia and New Zealand, a group they should’ve won easily considering they were current World champions at the time. This time around they will be prepared and determined to make amends for their fans and country alike.
One last point to mention is the return and rebirth of one other player, Antonio Cassano. Over the past few years he has endured horrible experiences of being dropped by the national and team coaches on countless of occasions and suffered ischemic damage leading to him having a heart surgery. This did not seem to stop Cassano as on his return from operation he scored against Genoa in a Serie A match and was also Italy’s top goalscorer during qualifiers. Expect determination, passion and creativity by the man that has been turned down by a number of people.
The Match Fixing Scandal
Just before the tournament Italian football has been clouded by the scandal of match fixing. A number of people have already been charged including Lazio’s captain Stefano Mauri who was arrested, Juventus’ manager Antonio Conte has been rumoured to have taken part and most importantly Italian international Domenico Criscito had to be axed by the national side just a few days ago as he is been investigated by authorities. This will definitely hang over the squad during the tournament as uncertainty will arise at some point and players may be asked in for questioning. Italian footballers will be used to ongoing allegations of match fixing and the media have seemed to turn their attention to the scandal rather than the Euros which could work in favour for Prandelli’s side. Alex Kosmas for TODOSLifestyle +May 2012.
This year’s Germany team have been tagged by the media as the best group of players the national side have to offer since the early 90’s team and that says a lot for a team mainly composed of young players. The main issue though that clouds over the National side is the very high expectation of this young squad to perform. Most of the players coped very well in South Africa’s World Cup but expecting the side to repeat its fortunes and take a step further this time may just seem too much for the squad. To back this up the unexplainable loss of Bayern Munich in the Champions League final showed that although a certain Dutch man lost his side the cup, the German players in the squad had been psychologically affected. When the penalty shoot out took place most of them stepped back from taking any of the penalties except of one ever so determined Neuer. Last Saturday a weak German side, not containing any of Bayern’s players from that unfortunate night, lost heavily to the force of the Swiss by 5-3. It will be interesting to see how the German side will kick off their next match with the deflated Bayern players included.
Netherlands, undeniably the next team we are all expecting to challenge Spain and Germany to the title. A team full of great midfielders and two menacing strikers, Huntelaar and RVP. Huntelaar was this year Bundesliga’s top goal scorer with 29 goals and having a very productive 2011 – 2012 season for Schalke scoring a total of 48 goals in 47 appearances, which stat talks for itself. RVP this year has truly reached the greats of world football stars, considered by most as one of the best forwards on the continent, equal to the likes of Ronaldo and Messi. He managed to score in total 37 goals and assist 15 in 47 appearances for Wenger’s team in the process winning the Premier League Golden Boot, the PFA Players' Player of the Year and FWA Footballer of the Year and obviously getting into the PFA Premier League Team of the Year. But these very two top scorers are what is causing a distress to the Dutch national team. The media in Holland are stressing that both players should be playing and never left out of the squad meaning that Huntelaar has been given the central striking position shifting Van Persie to the wing of the attack, a positioned that he does not relish. Both players are used to being the main strikers at team level and at international level they seem to be out of position. Huntelaar doesn’t get the supply he requires as Van Persie who should be providing has both eyes set on goal but this means that from a wide position has more effort to get into a clear striking position. This showing was indicative when last Friday Holland suffered a shock loss to Bulgaria on home ground.
This leaves us with the team this post should be all about, Italy. This first point is an indication that Italy are not front runners but will be able to capitalised on the front runners uncertainties as would they should be considered the next in line. Any problem the other sides seem to have Italy do not. First off unlike the Spanish they have a solid back line in Buffon, Barzagli and Chiellini and striking options that seem fearless in the likes of Balotelli, Cassano and Di Natale. Second they don’t have any expectations mounting over them as the German’s do. The side include a mixture of youngsters and very experienced players which should give a balance to the squad. And third they have a unique and solid system which seems to suit all players. Prandelli is not the customary Italian coach conserving the lead and restricting players from attacking, he is very much unlike that giving players the freedom to express themselves. This brings us onto the next point.
The Qualifying Round
Throughout the qualifying stages Spain unsurprisingly had the highest average of possession but second in line where the Italians consisting of a total of 829 passes, a stat which would conclude the Spaniards aren’t the only tiki taka style team in the Euros. Prandelli has formed a side around the legend and reborn Juventus start man Adrea Pirlo. Juve this year went unbeaten and topped the Serie A and at the centre of this was Pirlo’s contribution, a free agent from AC Milan in last year’s summer transfer window. Pirlo has the ability to control games tempo by either holding up the ball and playing it along the back line or swiftly moving the ball from one wing to the other with his long passing range.
Another key point in the Qualifying stages was the Italy’s defence, which let in only 2 goals. Once again Prandelli has used the stronghold of Juve’s unbeaten backline to create a strong Italian defence. Barzagli, Chiellini, Bonucci and the ever present Buffon have all come from a successful season with the Serie A winners conceding only 20 goals in 38 appearances to star in the Euros and fight for clean sheets. Indisputably the Italians new style of possession play would have also contributed to the low goals conceded but the defenders of such calibre will not get beaten easily.
The Squad
The selection has been spot on by the Azzuris, no controversial players in or out. The squad boasts a fresh breath of young players that have performed well over the past year, players that are just reaching their peak and international proven players. I’m not going to ramble about Juve’s success once again but Italy will try and replicate what they have achieved. 3 of the back 4 and 2 of the 3 central midfielders are Juve players which should translate into confidence and a will to win.
The last world cup was a complete failure for players such as Buffon, De Rossi, Pirlo and Di Natale as they finished bottom of their group against the likes of Paraguay, Slovenia and New Zealand, a group they should’ve won easily considering they were current World champions at the time. This time around they will be prepared and determined to make amends for their fans and country alike.
One last point to mention is the return and rebirth of one other player, Antonio Cassano. Over the past few years he has endured horrible experiences of being dropped by the national and team coaches on countless of occasions and suffered ischemic damage leading to him having a heart surgery. This did not seem to stop Cassano as on his return from operation he scored against Genoa in a Serie A match and was also Italy’s top goalscorer during qualifiers. Expect determination, passion and creativity by the man that has been turned down by a number of people.
The Match Fixing Scandal
Just before the tournament Italian football has been clouded by the scandal of match fixing. A number of people have already been charged including Lazio’s captain Stefano Mauri who was arrested, Juventus’ manager Antonio Conte has been rumoured to have taken part and most importantly Italian international Domenico Criscito had to be axed by the national side just a few days ago as he is been investigated by authorities. This will definitely hang over the squad during the tournament as uncertainty will arise at some point and players may be asked in for questioning. Italian footballers will be used to ongoing allegations of match fixing and the media have seemed to turn their attention to the scandal rather than the Euros which could work in favour for Prandelli’s side. Alex Kosmas for TODOSLifestyle +May 2012.
A Look Back At Euro 2008
Just 4 years ago all eyes set on Austria-Switzerland. Italy were World Champions, Greece were defending European Champions. England had failed to qualify despite an All-English final in the Champions League that year. Manchester United, lead by Portuguese international Cristiano Ronaldo won the Champions League edging out Chelsea in penalties in the Final held on a rainy European night in Moscow. Cristiano Ronaldo held the title of the World's Finest Footballer winning the FIFA Player of the Year. The French were without Zidane. The always dangerous Dutch were in the Group of Death along side with Italy and France. Portugal had Ronaldo. Germany had a new coach with familiar faces. Spain was known as an underachiever in major competitions. Russia was led by Dutchman Guus Hiddink and playmaker Andrei Arshavin. Turkey was looking to make an impact and that's exactly what happened. The games begun and Spain stood firm. Germany stumbled but advanced. Turkey made waves with amazing comebacks to rally and advance to the knockout stage capped with an unbelievable comeback against the Czech Republic. The Dutch destroyed the Group of Death. The French faltered without Zidane. The Champions (Greece) couldn't find the magic from 2004. Croatia looked strong. Russian manager Guus Hiddink famously said "I want to be the traitor of the year in the Netherlands" before his side took on the the Dutch. Russia emerged and upset the powerful Dutch with an inspiring performance from Arshavin. Spain played beautifully to the final led by an array of goals by David Villa. Turkey once again rallied from the brink of elimination to upset Croatia. Germany powered to the final. It was Germany again or Spain at last and as history proved it was Fernando Torres' goal that gave Spain the crown. Will history repeat itself 4 years later, can Spain repeat? Is Germany prime to lift another European Cup as the great German teams before? England is back. France shows potential. The Dutch are eyeing to return to another final. Who will be the surprise nation to emerge? The answers and games begin on June 8th. Until then reminisce with this great montage of what was Euro 2008. Knowing what happened in the past is important in predicting the future. It's also good for debates, bets, and casual conversations about the Euro 2012. +JG:PG for TODOSLifestyle +May 2012
The New Nike Euro 2012 Kits
We present to you the new line of the Federation Kits designed for Euro 2012 last redesigned for the 2010 World Cup. What stands out about these new kits are the new design elements and dynamic technology. These new kits feature a new aerodynamic fit for today's modern athlete. The feature Nike's T-Bar seams on the shoulder reduce irritation caused by chaffing. The laser cut ventilation that regulates the athlete's body temperature first introduced in 2012 is also brought back for these new kits. Nike claims these kits are 23% lighter than the previous 2010 Federation Kits and 20% stronger in the seams and knit structure. Nike has also focused on lower environmental impact as the shorts are made of 100% recycled polyester and the shirt at a minimum 96%. On average each kit is made of 13 recycled plastic bottles to make polyester. In addition the kit is complimented with Nike Pro Combat garments to wear under the kit. Nike has designed a Pro Combat Top for warm and cold weather conditions featuring Dri-Fit technology and T-Bar seems and also a slider short with silver colored Anti-abrasion hip and thigh panels to reduce friction between fabrics similar to the T-Bar seem. Each kit is designed with national identity as you can see in the video below Officially presenting the 2012 Nike Federation Kits. JG:PG for TODOSLifestyle +April 2012
The sport of fitness has arrived
Crossfit. If you already do it, then I know you just got the same goosebumps as I did. If you never did sports in life or felt unevenly coordinated, Crossfit is your second chance. For you athletes out there, we all know how to challenge our body, we love the adrenaline rush, we need our teammates, we thrive for competition. Nowadays we can't afford anymore time to be on a team; only spare a hour at the gym. Now it's time to make a change in your life. Crossfit has a range of exercises that pushes your body past it's limits. Anyone can join at any level of fitness. It boost endurance, builds immense strength and gets you in the best athletic shape ever. Crossfit recently joined with Reebok and is now grown to be internationally popular. To find out more about Crossfit or find a gym near you, visit www.crossfit.com. Careful, its addictive, in a good way. +April 2012
This is the the latest sport innovation from Nike
The Nike innovation summit presents the newest sport innovation developed for the Summer Olympics. Nike unveiled their new Swiftsuits for Sprinters running in London 2012, which are the lightest and most aerodynamic ever. The Nike Basketball kits are the lightest and most sustainable ever, in fact they are made out of recycled plastic bottles. In addition Flyknit technology was introduced for a lighter more durable fit coming to a range of Nike footwear, see for yourself. +February 2012
Train like never before
Nike presented their latest and greatest technology in consumer products. The Highlight was the Nike+ technology featuring the Fuel Band, Nike+ built into shoes, and a new app that brings it all together. They call it Nike+ Training, it's platform that features programs from various Nike athletes. The Nike+ chip built into the shoes records valuable performance data for athletes such as distance covered, to steps taken, to even vertical leap measurement. With technology you can measure things that you never could have before. Coming this summer. Stay tune for more. +February 2012
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Do you consider apparel/footwear innovation imporant?
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Inspirational words from a diverse collection of footballers
BBC Sport has begun a short documentary show (roughly 20 mins) called World Football Focus which visits football news from around the world and asks footballers for their take on football's influence today. This week's presentation includes Ivory Coast Didier Drogba's experience at the African NAtion's Cup and his efforts in the community, USA goalkeeper Brad Friedel and his take on the playing in the Premier League at the age of 40, Djibril Cisse's return to the Premier League, and Gary McCalister on the Scottish league. (Click on BCC below for this week's episode). +February 2012
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The spanish derby, 'el clásico'
In any sport, in any country, a derby match is a fixture between two local teams from the same city/region or two major team rivals. For example, in international football, the USA vs. Mexico always provides a good derby. The derby matches have heated atmospheres due to team philosophy and politics or city cultures. El clásico (the classic) is the most important Spanish derby and it occurs whenever Real Madrid and FC Barcelona play against each other. Check out a nice video created by ESPN (2010) depicting the dimensions of the clásico as compared to the flamenco dance. The first clásico of 2012 will be on January 18. +January 2012
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What is your favorite derby?
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Train in engineered mesh
This is the Nike Pro Hyperwarm Crew. It's perfect for running or training on those chilly mornings. It comes in a variety of colors and features Nike Dry Fit technology along with engineered mesh for form fitting seams that are designed to reduce irritation so you can focus on one thing. Your workout. Available at Nike.com (click on the image below). +January 2012
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How does engineered apparel improve your exercise?
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Cristiano Ronaldo's new Mercurial Superfly Boots
Cristiano Ronaldo is having another impressive season at Real Madrid and his new boots are just as impressive. They feature NIKE Flywire techonology. The design is unlike any boot before. These are arguably the best looking football boots ever worn on a pitch. Take a look for yourself and hear what CR7 thinks about them. +January 2012
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Have you sampled the new Mercurial Superfly boots?
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An engineered ball with the timeless look
This is the official ball for the 2012 Euro Cup made by adidas dubbed as the Tango 12. This is the most technologically advanced football in the world. The Tango 12 was engineered to exceed FIFA standards and at the same time not compromise control and feel for the players on the pitch. The design was inspired by the original Tango that first appeared in the 1978 World Cup in Argentina. The Tango and is back and better than ever. Below is a fascinating video about the design and engineering of the Tango 12. +December 2011
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Which competition ball is your favorite?
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Wear the jacket and resemble Ibra
He is feared. He is loved. Ibrahimovic is one of those stand-out
characters in football. With a large structure and a devilish eye for
goal, Ibrahimovic has made fans in Holland, Spain, and Italy forget about seat
numbers countless times with his magnificent, destructive goals. Now NIKE Sportswear has come out
with the bomber jacket that presents these same qualities. Named 'Crafted
for Destruction,' the black, fitted jacket has Ibrahimovic's tattoos
sown on the back and a maroon collar to top it off. Check out the
impressive video below. +December 2011
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What do you think about tattoos on footballers?
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The unique in-depth football statistics app
Want to be up to date with football stats? Need to make the incisive decision on weekly transfers for your fantasy team? Need to be an all round 'know-it-all; of football? Then why not try out this new app brought to you by Four Four Two and powered by OPTA. The app provides in depth analysis of all Champions League and Premier League games, including all basic stats such as passes and shots, to more astonishing info like player vs player comparisons and breakdown of key incidents that influenced games. The app is available for iOS 4.0 and later. Check out the link to the the Apple store. +November 2011 (contributed by AK)
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which football statistics apps do you use?
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Sports science & engineering with a passion 4 football
Take a unique look at the how the composition of a football player's body & mind make him one of the deadliest on the pitch. This is Cristiano Ronaldo. The most expensive footballer in the world. The video has beautiful footage of innovative testing of body strength, mental ability, technique, and skill. An amazing must see documentary. +November 2011
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Train like a champion
Why is Manchester United Football Club one of the best sport institutions in the world today? The answer is many reasons. This is how they prepare for their long English and European campaigns. Below is a look at how Manchester United Manager Sir Alex Ferguson trains his players for success. Using advanced sports science combined with extensive high intensity work ethic, Manchester United footballers are engineered to win titles. This short film was shot at Nike's World Headquarters in Oregon where Nike welcomed one their most prestigious partners to work out at their world class athletic facilities. +October 2011
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Try adidas techfit technology when you play
This is what the professional footballers wear on the pitch, now you can wear it to the training ground. This is the Adidas Campeon ll jersey in Techfit. Techfit is a technology developed by Adidas that features the powerweb design across the back to focus muscles for optimum performance. The TPU design is also featured in other performance apparel such as a sprinter's speed suit. Wear what the pros wear (available at World Soccer Shop by clicking on image below). +October 2011
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Back for the future
Nike has released the Nike Mags, made famous in Back to the Future Part II when Marty McFly automatically laced them on. Well it's not quite 2015 but Nike has teamed up with the Michael J. Fox's Foundation to auction off 1,500 pairs with all the proceeds going for Parkinson's disease research. Check out the clip filmed for the launch of the shoe dubbed as "Back For the Future". +October 2011
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