Monthly Archives: June 2011

In the World of Futbol: Special Edition #8 – FIFA Women’s World Cup Group Staging

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Day two of the FIFA Women’s World Cup featured matches between Japan, New Zealand, Mexico and England.

Japan defeated New Zealand 2-1 to begin the day’s matches.  Yuki Nagasato (Japan) scored first during the 6th minute of the match.   Amber Hearn found the equalizer for England during the 12th minute.  Japan’s game winning goal came during the 68th minute off of a free kick.  Aya Miyama took the free kick for Japan.

Mexico and England concluded day two with a 1-1 draw.  Fara Williams of England scored first during the 21st minute and Monica Ocampo tied the game during the 33rd minute for Mexico.

Day three of the tournament began with Colombia taking on Sweden.  Sweden defeated Mexico 1-0 thanks to Jessica Landstrom during the 57th minute.

Day three ended with the USA and Korea DPR.  The United States defeated the Koreans 2-0.  Lauren Cheney scored first during the 54th minute and Rachel Buehler scored the second goal during the 76th minute.

The next special edition of In the World of Futbol will recap the results of days 4-7.

In the World of Futbol 15

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This week started off with a match between the Seattle Sounders and the New York Red Bulls.  Seattle scored the first two goals of the match in a timespan of a minute.  Friberg (11th minute) and Alonso (12th minute) gave their club a 2-0 advantage.  NY scored their first goal during the 31st minute (Richards) and they tied the game up off an own goal during the 58th minute.  Seattle’s Levesque scored his first goal during the 67th minute and his second during the 78th minute sealing a 4-2 victory for the Sounders.

D.C. United and the Houston Dynamo ended in a 2-2 draw.  United scored first during the 31st minute with a goal from Pontius.  10 minutes later Houston tied it up when Davis scored off of a penalty kick.  Davies gave United a 2-1 advantage during the 73rd minute, but Ching found the equalizer during the 89th minute for Houston.

The San Jose Earthquakes and the L.A. Galaxy ended in a scoreless draw.

The Philadelphia Union defeated Chivas USA 3-2. Umana scored first for Chivas during the 28th minute.  Paunovic of Philadelphia scored their first goal during the 48th minute, and Ruiz scored the second goal during the 69th minute giving the Union a 2-1 lead.  Braun tied the game up for Chivas during the 77th minute, and Mwanga scored the winning goal for Philadelphia during the 82nd minute.

The Vancouver Whitecaps were defeated by Sporting Kansas City 2-1. Vancouver scored first during the 15th minute with a goal from Camilo.  Omar Bravo (SKC) converted a penalty kick tying up the game. Cesar scored second for SKC during the 40th minute.

FC Dallas defeated the Portland Timbers 4-0.  Loyd (33rd minute) and John (38th) minute scored the first half goals.  Shea (58th minute) and Luna (85th) minute scored during the second half.

Real Salt Lake defeated Toronto FC 3-1. Borchers scored first for RSL during the 39th minute, three minutes later Saborio scored his first goal of the match for RSL.  His second goal came during the 60th minute, and Santos (TOR) scored during the 66th minute.

The Chicago Fire and New York Red Bulls ended in a 1-1 draw. Lindpere (NY) scored during the 40th minute and Pappa (CHI) scored during the 58th minute.

The Seattle Sounders defeated the New England Revolution 2-1.  Nyassi scored the only goal for the Revolution.  Wahl (34th minute) and Fernandez (40th minute) scored for Seattle.

Columbus Crew defeated the Colorado Rapids 4-1. Colorado’s only goal came from Casey during the 5th minute of the match.  Gavin (12th minute), Mendoza (18th & 48th minutes), and Heinemann (57th minute) scored for the Crew.

Conference Standings:

(source: mlssoccer.com)

This week’s MLS schedule:

(source: mlssoccer.com)

In the World of Futbol: Special Edition #7 – FIFA Women’s World Cup Group Staging

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Women’s football (soccer, futbol, whatever you want to call it) isn’t taken very seriously; just like any other female sport is compared to their male counterparts. This is just a fact that we all should be aware or and many people probably aren’t even aware that the Women’s World Cup started today.

The tournament is divided into 4 groups which consist of four countries.  The group staging of the tournament will last until July 6th with each country playing each member of their group and earning points to try to advance to the next round. The top two countries of each group will advance to the knockout rounds.

Here are the groups:

Group A:  France, Germany, Canada, Nigeria

Group B: Japan, New Zealand, Mexico, England

Group C: USA, Korea DPR, Colombia, Sweden

Group D: Brazil, Australia, Norway, Equatorial Guinea

The first match of the tournament had Nigeria facing France and the first goal of the tournament came from France (Marie-Laure Delie) during the 56th minute of the match.  France held on to their lead to defeat the Nigerians.

The host country Germany concluded the day’s matches when they took on Canada.  Germany looked very composed and really sharp against the Canadians. The first half belonged to the Germans when they took a 2-0 lead going into halftime.  Garefrekes scored first during the 10th minute, and Okoyino Da Mbabi scored during the 42nd minute. Sinclair scored for Canada off a free-kick to give the Canadians some momentum, but it wasn’t enough to end the match with a draw.  Germany won 2-1.

An overview of the matches are as follows for each group (times are set to EST time, please check FIFA.com for your local time.

(source: fifa.com)

During the group stage, we will bring you coverage of all the matches in our Special Edition section of “In the World of Futbol”.  There will be a post after each of the USA matches (like we did for the CONCACAF Gold Cup tournament).  For up to the moment results check out our twitter & facebook pages.

In the World of Futbol: Special Edition #6 – Gold Cup Finals

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The CONCACAF Gold Cup has come to an end and Mexico was named the 2011 Champions. The United States took an early 2-0 lead in the first 23rd minutes of the match.  Bradley scored first during the 8th minute, and Donovan scored during the 23rd minute.  After a great start it went downhill from there for the US.

Mexico, great on the attack, ripped apart the US defense scoring two goals to finish out the first half.  Barrera scored first during the 29th minute, and Guardado scored second during the 36th minute.  The second half started just as the first half concluded.  Barrera scored during the 50th minute, and dos Santos scored during the 76th minute sealing a 4-2 victory.

Mexico will also go on to play in the Copa America 2011 tournament, ‘the most important football event in Latin America’,  that takes place in Argentina from July 1st to July 24th.

The Tao of Steve: My Draft Day Blues

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A couple of surprises. A lot of foreigners. An impending lockout. A few highlights.

Everyone speculated that Cleveland was going to pick Kyrie Irving (Duke) as this years numero uno draft pick and they were correct. The Cavs acquired this pick from their trade with the LA Clippers. The Clippers felt that it was in their best interest to let Baron Davis go (along with his 2 year/28 million dollar contract), get Mo Williams [sic] in return and resign Jordan and Gordon. It will be interesting to see how this situation with Irving, Davis, Sessions and Gibson at the point plays out. As previously mentioned, please, no more comparisons to the “anointed one,” I just don’t have the strength to hear people complain!

However, what surprised a lot of people was that the Cavs chose Tristan Thompson (Texas) as their #4 pick. Irving seemed happy that Big XII Freshmen of the Year would be joining him in Ohio. Although he does need to develop his game, in the meantime, his 7’1″ wingspan, great foot work and ability to block a couple shots will surely suffice.

With the second pick, the Timberwolves chose Derrick Williams (Arizona) to join the Love Train. He was the obvious choice for number 2 and is probably the most NBA ready player in this years draft class (you probably already heard that one before). Minnesota will finally get Ricky Rubio at the point to play alongside Williams and Love. The problem with this acquisition is that the Wolves are already to committed to Milicic and are not giving up on Love (pun very much intended) after his streak of double-doubles. Will Minnesota try to move Beasley or keep Williams? It seems they are adamant on keeping their pick, I guess we’ll just have to wait and see.

Kemba Walker (UConn) was chosen by the Charlotte Bobcats as their 9th pick. The former Huskie point guard will join #7 draft pick in Biyombo (Congo) in Charlotte. The Bobcats acquired Biyombo from a trade that sent Stephen Jackson to the Bucks. Kemba is explosive around the net and his team first attitude is probably what got him drafted over Brandon Knight (Kentucky).

This draft day is a culmination of Jordan’s (Michael that is) new approach as majority owner. Charlotte recently let go of Tyson Chandler, Raymond Felton, Gerald Wallace and now Jackson. This new strategy of clearing the deck and going for a younger core of players has been happening for the past couple years, albeit he faced much criticism. It seems like Jordan is clearing cap space to make a move in the summer of 2012. I hope he knows what he’s doing.

Jim Jam (for fans of Weeds). Jimmer Fredette (BYU), the National Player of the Year and most talked about player of the season went to the Kings (via Milwaukee) at #10. He was exciting to watch at the college level and should continue to garner interest at the pro level. He has Tiger Woods range (not girl wise but shot wise, yes that was his teammate) and has the ability to finish in the paint. Although he has been criticized for his lack of defensive prowess, I think he will develop that aspect and it will come with time. He joins Tyreke Evans and DeMarcus Cousins in Sac-Town and should bring some money to the Maloof’s. Let’s just hope he’s still as exciting as he was in Brigham Young.

However, this all seems bitter sweet because there is an impending lock-out. Twenty-two out of the thirty teams are losing money (lots) and it seems that the players association and owners cannot see eye to eye. After hearing Derek Fisher saying the player’s union won’t back down to avoid a lock-out does not comfort me at all. I hope that they are able to come to an agreement, otherwise, these rookies will have plenty of time to practice!

In the World of Futbol: Special Edition #5 – Gold Cup Semifinals

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The moment we’ve all been waiting for has finally arrived! The CONCACAF Gold Cup Final has been set! The US has reached their 4th consecutive Gold Cup Final (8th overall) with a 1-0 victory over Panama.  The game winning goal came from Clint Dempsey during the 76th minute.  The goal was set up by Freddy Adu when he passed the ball to Landon Donovan who sent it into the box for Dempsey to score.

The US seems to be peaking at just the right time during the tournament and can hopefully carry the momentum to the final match.

The last match of the semi-finals between Honduras and Mexico ended in a 2-0 victory for Mexico in extra time. De Nigris scored the first goal during the 93rd minute for Mexico and Chicharito scored the second goal during the 99th minute.

The United States will take on Mexico for the chance to be named the Gold Cup Champions. You can watch on Univision or Univision.com.  I always find the Spanish announcers much more entertaining as they can even make missing a goal exciting.

In anticipation for this match up, I must show my support for the USA. Here is my newest graphic with Clint Dempsey in the spotlight.

If you will be watching the match please tweet your us thoughts on it for a chance to have your opinion in the next special edition of “In the World of Futbol”.  Also make sure you’re following 2Knuckleheadz for more great sports coverage and contests!

Fabricio Oberto to return to the game of basketball.

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Whether you’re a Spurs fan or not, it’s hard to argue the heart and passion that Fabricio Oberto has for the game of basketball.  Oberto was forced to retire from the game due to a heart condition and I can personally say that it sad to hear. However, luck may have turned in his favor just in time for the Olympic Qualifiers taking place in Mar de Plata, Argentina.  The tournament will begin August 30th and end September 11th and according to Ole.com, a statement was made that Oberto has been medically cleared to play.

Here is the statement (translated from original site)*

Finally the moment that we’ve all be waiting to announce, according to the results of many studies I have received medical discharge and consequently I am able to resume the practice of sport safely.

So from today I put myself at the mercy of the Technical Corps of the national team  so that I may achieve peak physical condition and according to the Basketball Tournament in which we participate and the rank and prestige of our Selection that it requires.

In this regard, and because of the long downtime, it should be made clear that I will try every effort to arrive at suitable conditions to participate in the international tournament like the one we have before us, and maybe not achieve it; I will be the first to leave my place of respect that is required by the National Team and out of the love I have for my colleagues and friends.

We greatly appreciate all the continuing concern you have shown me and the affection and support constantly received.

I hope we meet in Mar del Plata.

It would be great to be able to watch Oberto play the sport that he loves once again. It was a bitter sweet day when he announced his retirement and I hope he can represent his country once again.

Argentina is seeded in Group B which also includes Puerto Rico, Uruguay, Panama and Paraguay.  Group A includes Canada, Dominican Republic, Venezuela, Brazil and Cuba.  For more information please visit FIBA Americas.

In other news surrounding Argentina, according to Leandro Ginobili’s twitter account, Manu Ginobili may be in doubt:

“Manu Ginobili in doubt, medical diagnosis? Hyperextension of the nasal septum! It seems he has suffered this from the age of 12.”*

It will be interesting to see how this latest development plays a role.  If we’ve learned anything about Manu Ginobili, it’s that it takes a lot to stop him from playing.

*I have attempted to make sure that my translation is as accurate as I could make it. Please visit the original websites in which these comments were posted if you would like to see the original Spanish text.

In the World of Futbol 14

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The 14th week of the MLS season started with a match between the New England Revolution and Toronto FC. The match ended in a scoreless draw.

Sporting Kansas City defeated the San Jose Earthquakes 1-0 on the 17th. C.J. Sapong scored the only goal of the match during the 31st minute. Graham Zusi was credited with the assist.

The Seattle Sounders defeated Toronto FC 1-0. Fredy Montero scored the goal late in the match during the 90th minute.

The Chicago Fire and New England Revolution ended in a 1-1 draw. Dominic Oduro scored first for Chicago during the 32nd minute and Rajko Lekic tied the match up at 1 during the 48th minute.

The Houston Dynamo were defeated by Columbus Crew 2-0. Andres Mendoza scored during the 41st minute and Bernardo Anor scored during the 77th.

Real Salt Lake and D.C United ended in a 1-1 draw as well. Both goals came as a result of a penalty. RSL scored first during the 38th minute thanks to Fabian Espindola and Charlie Davies scored for DC during the 85th minute.

The LA Galaxy defeated the Colorado Rapids 3-1. LA’s first goal of the match (25th minute) came off an own goal. Juninho gave LA a 2-0 advantage during the 42nd minute. Colorado scored its only goal during the 64th minute when Conor Casey scored. Chad Barrett scored the 3rd goal for LA during the 80th minute.

The Vancouver Whitecaps defeated the Philadelphia Union 1-0. Alain Rochat scored the goal during the 12th minute of the match.

FC Dallas defeated Chivas USA 2-1. Brek Shea (DAL) scored first during the 22nd minute. The equalizer came from Michael Lahoud (CHV) during the 72st minute and the game winning goal came from Jackson Goncalves (DAL) during the 85th minute.

The Portland Timbers and New York Red Bulls ended in a 3-3 draw. Austin Da Luz (NY) scored first during the 5th minute. Portland countered with a two goals during the 48th minute (Jack Jewsbury) and 49th minute (Kevin Goldthwaite). An own goal gave Portland a 3-1 advantage during the 68th minute. Thierry Henry (NY) scored during the 73rd minute, and Dwayne De Rosario tied the game up at 3 off a penalty kick during stoppage time. Thierry Henry was ejected from the match after picking up a red card for “violent conduct” however I am quite confused as to why this was the case. After 14 weeks of MLS action here is a look at the updated conference standings:  This week’s MLS action includes:

In the World of Futbol: Special Edition #4 – Gold Cup Quarterfinals

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The CONCACAF Gold Cup quarterfinals began on June 18th.  Costa Rica versus Honduras kicked off this round of the tournament.  Bengtson (Honduras) scored first during the 49th minute, however Costa Rica quickly countered during the 56th minute thanks to Marshall. At the end of regulation, the match was tied at one which sent the match to penalty kicks.  Honduras advances by winning the penalty kick round 4-2 and will face Mexico in the semifinals.  Here is a summary of the PK round:

Borges (Costa Rica) missed.

Costly (Honduras) scored.

Ruiz (Costa Rica) scored.

Bernárdez (Honduras) scored.

Saborío (Costa Rica) missed.

Palacios (Honduras) scored.

Campbell (Costa Rica) scored.

Bengtson (Honduras) scored.

Mexico defeated Guatemala 2-1 to conclude the first day of the quarterfinals.  Guatemala scored first very early during the match thanks to Ruiz during the 5th minute.  During the 48th minute, De Nigiris of Mexico tied the match up at 1. Mexico’s game winning goal came during the 66th minute thanks to Hernández.

June 19th began with the United States taking on Jamaica. Landon Donovan did not start the match but came on during 65th minute.   Jones gave the US a 1-0 advantage during the 49th minute.  Taylor (Jamaica) was automatically ejected from the match when he was given a red card for tripping Jones who was through on goal.  Clint Dempsey scored the second goal for the US during the 80th minute.  The US will take on Panama in the semifinals.

The last quarterfinal match took place between Panama and El Salvador.  Just as the quarterfinals kicked off, this match was decided by penalty kicks after a 1-1 tie at the end of regulation. The first goal of the match came at the result of a penalty kick after El Salvador was awarded one after a foul from Panama.  Zelaya converted the PK for El Salvador. Panama countered during the 89th minute when Tejada scored.  Pérez (Panama) and Anaya (El Salvador) received a red card during the 90th minute and were sent off. Panama advances by winning the PK round 5-3.  Here is a summary:

Barahona (Panama) scored.

Alas (El Salvador) missed.

Renteriá (Panama) scored.

Romero (El Salvador) scored.

Godoy (Panama) scored.

Zelaya (El Salvador) scored.

Henríquez (Panama) scored.

Flores (El Salvador) scored.

Tejada (Panama) scored.

Here is the schedule for the semifinals:(source: goldcup.org)