Time for most of the continent to take a break from football for the winter, and with that, I have the final list of rankings for 2009.
1. FC Barcelona
Top of La Liga, UEFA Champions League Group F Winners
Yeah I'm Convinced: Along with Bayer Leverkusen, Barcelona are yet to lose domestically in league, and conquered what became the toughest Champions League group. A nice 3-1 win against a stingy Deportivo is among the wins since the last rankings.
I'm Not So Sure: You could argue that Real Madrid's chances in El Clasico would have been better if Ronaldo was fully fit. Still, Barcelona is doing everything they are asked to do at the moment, and are World Champions as well.
2. Real Madrid
2nd in La Liga, UEFA Champions League Group C Winners
Yeah, I'm Convinced: So that's what it's supposed to look like when it all comes together. 4 straight wins since the Clasico loss by a combined 16-5.
I'm Not So Sure: Getting a clean sheet against a Zaragoza side in the drop zone does not mean the defensive issues are solved. Pepe's injury will hurt.
3. Bordeaux
Top of Ligue 1, UEFA Champions League Group A Winners
Yeah, I'm Convinced: No one wants to play this team at the moment. Unbeaten in their games against all Champions League teams they've seen (including an away draw to Marseille and an away win at Lyon in league play). Just one goal conceded in their last 5 in all competitions.
I'm Not So Sure: Being top of Ligue 1 is one thing, but even with their recent struggles, would you really take Bordeaux over Chelsea or Manchester United? Or even Inter?
4. Chelsea
Top of Premier League, UEFA Champions League Group D Winners
Yeah I'm Convinced: The talent and the experience is still there to compete with any of the top three.
I'm Not So Sure: The dip in form that I thought would come is in progress. Lost to a Man City team that was struggling, and drew a West Ham side that's sitting in the drop.
5. Manchester United
2nd in Premier League, UEFA Champions League Group B Winners
Yeah, I'm Convinced: When it's switched on, they are as good as anybody. The Arsenal win suddenly looks terrific. Beat Wolfsburg at Wofsburg with a makeshift backline. However.......
I'm Not So Sure: they have become wildly inconsistent. Blanks against Aston Villa at home and Fulham away are not going to inspire any confidence. Would you take this team over Inter at the moment?
6. Arsenal
3rd in Premier League, UEFA Champions League Group H Winners
Yeah, I'm Convinced: Bounced back nicely from the Chelsea debacle and they are getting it done with key attacking players out through injury, such as Robin van Persie. 10 points from 4 league matches since the last rankings. No shame in the Olympiakos loss as they were at less than full strength.
I'm Not So Sure: Glen Johnson helped the Gunners back into that game at Anfield. Inter might have the steel and tactical rigidity to make it tough for Arsenal as well. The signature win is..... Tottenham? Celtic?
7. Inter Milan
Top of Serie A, UEFA Champions League Group D Runners-Up
Yeah, I'm Convinced: Finding ways to get results in Italy to stay top and also saved their Champions League campaign with an impressive 2-0 win over Rubin Kazan. Samuel Eto'o is starting to warm up. However...........
I'm Not So Sure: That no-show at the Camp Nou is still too fresh, and the Juventus loss suddenly looks horrible. Drawing at Atalanta and beating, but not blasting Lazio isn't going to inspire confidence.
8. Sevilla
3rd in La Liga, UEFA Champions League Group G Winners
Yeah, I'm Convinced: Sevilla can't be blamed for losing ground to Barcelona and Real Madrid. They've proven they can play big boy football when called upon and there are a lot of teams that would love to have the Luis Fabiano- Frederic Kanoute strike force.
I'm Not So Sure: While Getafe is playing a lot better, Sevilla still should be losing to them at home. The Real Madrid win, though impressive, seems ages ago.
9. Bayern Munich
3rd in German Bundesliga, UEFA Champions League Group A Runners Up
Yeah, I'm Convinced: The machine is starting to roll through their opposition, and without Ribery. Only two points back of Leverkusen. That 4-1 win at Juventus came after the Old Lady beat Inter. The goals are coming from more than one source (Gomez, Muller, and Olic).
I'm Not So Sure: It's not. Bayern have played as well as anyone ranked ahead of them in the last 2+ weeks.
10. AC Milan
2nd in Serie A, UEFA Champions League Group C Runners Up
Yeah, I'm Convinced: If you saw the clinic they put on against Sampdoria a couple weeks ago, you'll see why they are this high.
I'm Not So Sure: Milan might be the best of a group that performed poorly over the last couple weeks and this is a default ranking. They need depth at defender, badly. This team can't play the attacking football they're trying to achieve without Thiago Silva keeping the back line together.
11. CSKA Moscow
Runners Up in Russian Premier League, UEFA Champions League Group B Runners Up
Enjoy watching Milos Krasic play for the Russian side in the Champions League in February, if he's still there. Ended Wolfsburg's Champions League run by beating them and winning at Besiktas to earn a place in the knockout rounds.
12. Bayer Leverkusen
Top of German Bundesliga
Still unbeaten in Germany, but 4 goals conceded in their last two matches to Monchengladbach and Hertha Berlin suggest they may be getting found out.
13. Aston Villa
4th in English Premier League
Beaten Manchester United at Old Trafford and Chelsea at home. Anyone else say they've done that this season? The Rapid Vienna embarrassment seems like so long ago now.
14. Lyon
4th in French Ligue 1, UEFA Champions League Group E Runners Up
Part of the criteria in this process is who would I take now, and depsite the recent struggles, I would still take Lyon over Juventus, Valencia, and Deportivo. No shame in losing to Bordeaux the way they're playing now, Bayern and Juventus have done it as well.
15. Valencia
4th in La Liga, UEFA Europa League Group B Winners
The Sevilla win and the Barcelona draw look great, and they conquered a group in the Europa League that featured dangerous sides like Lille and Genoa. Came close to sharing points with Real Madrid as well. Unfortunately for their slim La Liga title hopes, they have to play all three teams ahead of them away from the Mestalla. David Villa is at his vintage best, 15 goals in all competitions.
16. Juventus
3rd in Serie A, Qualified for UEFA Europa League
This is a pretty harsh ranking considering the last time I did this, they beat Inter. Unfortunately, they have lost three straight in all competitions by a combined 9-3. Bayern I can understand, but Catania and Bari? This is a team that needs to get healthy, and fast.
17. FC Schalke 04
2nd in German Bundesliga
Three straight wins in Germany including victories over top-half sides Werder Bremen and Mainz. Only 1 goal conceded in their last 5 in league. The Felix effect is taking hold in Gelsenkirchen.
18. Olympiakos
2nd in Greek League, UEFA Champions League Group H Runners Up
Came through with the win needed against Arsenal to confirm qualificatio nfor the knockout stages as well as beat rival Panathinaikos 2-0 to keep the Greek League race tight.
19. Benfica
2nd in Portuguese League, UEFA Europa League Group I Winners
Dominant in their Europa League group and recently have a 2-0 win over FC Porto to their credit.
20. Rubin Kazan
Russian Premier League Winners, Qualified for UEFA Europa League
The Russian Champions will be a tough out in the second club competition, they're the only team to have a victory over Barcelona to date this season.
21. PSV Eindhoven
2nd in Dutch Eredivisie, UEFA Europa League Group K Winners
The only team on this list that has yet to lose in any competition this season.
22. FC Porto
3rd in Portuguese League, UEFA Champions League Group D Runners Up
Barely in these rankings and mainly on the strength of qualifying for the knockout stages of the Champions League.
23. Marseille
2nd in Ligue 1, Qualified for UEFA Europa League
Hard to blame them for not getting to the knockouts of the Champions League considering that they had to fight Real Madrid in Milan. Put together a nice run of wins domestically to mount a title challenge. They did draw Bordeaux earlier in the season.
24. Fiorentina
10th in Serie A, UEFA Champions League Group E Winner
Wildly inconsistent in league play (just lost 2-1 to Chievo) but here on the strength of outlasting Lyon and Liverpool to win their Champions League group.
25. Dynamo Kiev
Top of Ukranian League, Bottom of UEFA Champions League Group F
This is a team that had both Barcelona and Inter to the sword and couldn't finish them off. They top their domestic league and most noteable is an emphatci 3-0 win over Shakhtar Donetsk, who also was very competitive with Barcelona earlier in the season. Shame they are not in Europe anymore, they would have given some of the Europa League sides some real trouble.
OTHERS CONSIDERED:
Hamburg
LOSC Lille
Shakhtar Donetsk
Fenerbahce
Panathinaikos
Galatasaray
Tottenham Hotspur
Roma
FC Twente
That will do it for the rankings for 2009. A lot of shifting, especially at the bottom. Let me know what you think!
Monday, December 21, 2009
Sunday, December 13, 2009
The Frankly Football Team of the Decade.
With the first decade of the 21st centruy and the 3rd millennium coming to a close, there are going to be many debates, lists and rankings. With that said, I offer my team of the decade. I had a lot of tough decisions to make in assembling this squad, and here are the criteria I tried to follow as closely as possible:
- Overall talent.
- Honors earned with his teams.
- Individual Recognitions.
Obviously there are a lot of players to choose from over the span of a decade, but only 18 get to make it (a starting 11 and a bench of 7). I would be remiss, however, if I didn't acknowledge the many I considered that fell short (in no particular order):
Frank Lampard, Wayne Rooney, Ashley Cole, David Beckham, Xavi, Fernando Torres, Sergio Ramos, Raul, David Villa, Francesco Totti, Alessandro Nesta, Gennaro Gattuso, Gianluca Zambrotta, Phillip Lahm, Miroslav Klose, Oliver Kahn, Claude Makelele, Lilian Thuram, Franck Ribery, Patrick Vieira, Arjen Robben, Edwin Van Der Sar, Ruud Van Nistelrooy, Clarence Seedorf, Petr Cech, Pavel Nedved, Ricardo Carvalho, Manuel Rui Costa, Deco, Carlos Tevez, Juan Roman Riquelme, Hernan Crespo, Andriy Shevchenko (this was particularly painful for me to omit him), Robinho, Lucio, Julio Cesar, Rivaldo, Didier Drogba, Samuel Eto'o, Michael Essien, Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Ryan Giggs, Tim Howard and Shunsuke Nakamura.
In addition, there will be a manager for this team, and that was difficult as well. Managers who deserve recognition but missed the cut are (again, no particular order):
Carlo Ancelotti, Luiz Felipe Scolari (fine he tanked at Chelsea but he had Portugal on the brink and won at Brazil in 2002), Josep Guardiola, Frank Rijkaard, Roberto Mancini, Sir Alex Ferguson, Arsene Wenger, Fabio Capello, Marcello Lippi and Guus Hiddink.
Yet, I will stand by the squad I have selected and would be very successful with this team. So here is the team of players that have stood out at thier positions, their clubs, and/or their countries in this 10-year span. My system is a 4-3-3. (NOTE: Accomplishments I bullet point are accomplishments each player achieved during this decade, and a few of these prominent players accomplished much more prior to the new millennium).
GOALKEEPER: Gianluigi Buffon, Italy
- World Cup Winner: 2006
- UEFA Champions League Finalist: 2003
- UEFA Champions League MVP: 2003
- UEFA Team of the Year: 2003, 2004, 2006
- 7-time Serie A Goalkeeper of the Year
- FIFPro All World XI: 2006, 2007
I sure had my share of choices for this position, but I'll go with the Italian World Cup winner. Only 2 goals conceded in that 2006 triumph; an own goal against USA and a penalty kick in the final against France. A tremendous shot stopper but also has exceptional command of his defensive charges on set pieces and any other situation where organization was required. Certainly will be in the discussion of greatest goalkeepers of all time before his career is over.
RIGHT BACK: Cafu, Brazil
- World Cup Winning Captain: 2002
- Serie A Winner with Roma in 2000-01 and with Milan in 2003-04
- UEFA Champions League Winner: 2007
- UEFA Champions League Finalist: 2005
- UEFA Team of the Year: 2004, 2005
- FIFPro World XI: 2005
This is a slam dunk. The most capped player in Brazilian National team history and World Cup winning captain in 2002 set a blazing trend for the rest to follow at his position. Once described by Sir Alex Ferguson as a man "who plays with two hearts." Especially in the early part of this decade, you could always find Cafu playing for club or country bombing down the right hand side. A striker's dream with his crossing ability, and a goalkeeper's nightmare with his ability to shoot from distance.
CENTER BACK: Fabio Cannavaro, Italy
- World Cup Winning Captain: 2006
- European Championship Finalist: 2000
- Ballon D'Or Winner: 2006
- UEFA Team of the Year: 2006
- FIFPro World XI: 2006, 2007
- La Liga Winner with Real Madrid, 2006-07, 2007-08
The captain and inspirational leader of the 2006 World Cup winning team easily makes it in. He's had a bit of a downslide toward the end of the decade, but no player was more valuable to his national team than Cannavaro. He had to marshall the Azzurri defense without Alessandro Nesta, his usual partner in the back who was out through injury. Want more proof? See how the Italians did in Euro 2008 while Cannavaro was out with an ankle injury. They weren't the same. Cannavaro's dogged performances, particulary in the semifinal win over Germany and again in the final against France, led Italy to their 4th World Cup. In addition to that, Cannavaro has enjoyed success with his clubs, particularly at Real Madrid. There's a bit of controversy being part of the Juventus team that was mired in the Calcioppoli scandal, but you can't doubt his work ethic and leadership.
CENTER BACK: Carlos Puyol, Spain
- UEFA Champions League Winning Captain: 2006 and 2009
- Treble-winning Captain: 2009
- European Champion with Spain in 2008
- Three-time La Liga Winner: 2004-05, 2005-06, and 2008-09
- UEFA Team of the Year: 2002, 2005, 2006, 2008
- FIFPro World XI: 2007, 2008
And there are several other honors for this decorated footballer, the heart of this Barcelona team since putting on the Captain's armband in 2004. Most recently mesmerized with a performance in El Clasico where "sacrificing for the team" was redefined. Was moved to right back in the 2009 Champions League final against Manchester United due to shortage of options in defense for Barcelona, and delivered brilliantly. Like Cannavaro, Carlos Puyol is a true leader, and sacrifices for the team.
LEFT BACK: Roberto Carlos, Brazil
- World Cup Winner: 2002
- UEFA Champions League Winner: 2000, 2002
- La Liga Winner: 2000-01, 2002-03, 2006-07
- UEFA Team of the Year: 2002, 2003
Though many would argue a more defensive quality left back would be a better fit (Phillip Lahm), I'm going with Roberto Carlos because he's one of many (as you'll see as you keep reading) who can get me a goal on a free kick and perhaps in the run of play. 53 goals in all club competitions this decade is exceptional for a left back. Exceptionally skilled and particularly on his left foot, he can serve me a ball anywhere I want it. He sustained a level of greatness at his position for such a long time that all-time greatest teams will try and have him in over Paolo Maldini.
CENTER MIDFIELD: Andrea Pirlo, Italy
- World Cup Winner: 2006
- UEFA Champions League Winner: 2003, 2007
- UEFA Champions League Finalist: 2005
- Serie A Winner: 2004
- World Cup Final Man of the Match: 2006
- FIFPro World XI: 2006
Constantly passed over for UEFA Team of the Year for more star names, Andrea Pirlo has been a model of consistency year in and year out this decade. Known for his deep lying playmaking ability for club and country, Pirlo also has the ability to help protect the back line. This is just the player I want to control the tempo of the all-decade team attack. He has long passing ability that sets up scoring chances, and he also makes the intelligent decision of the safe possession pass. Most notable was that no look pass to Fabio Grosso in the World Cup semifinal against Germany in 2006, which was the set up for the winning goal, and sending Italy on their way to their 4th World Cup in the win over France.
CENTER MIDFIELD: Zinedine Zidane, France
- European Champion, 2000
- World Cup Finalist, 2006
- UEFA Champions League Winner, 2002
- World Player of the Year: 2000, 2003
- UEFA Team of the Year: 2001, 2002, 2003
- FIFPro World XI: 2005, 2006
I could easily do an entire blog of everything this man accomplished in his career. I could also do an entire blog about that incident in the World Cup final in 2006. However, ask me to remember Zinedine Zidane and I'll remember that goal in the 2002 UEFA Champions League Final. I'll remember that in his last competition for France, he carried a nation on his back to the final. I'll remember how he owned the Euro 2000 Tournament. I'll remember those three things far before the headbutt. There has not been a player since that has demonstrated the ability to match Zidane's impeccable blend of brilliant skill and rugged combativeness. Generations before us were lucky to have Pele and Maradona, Zidane is the player of our time.
RIGHT WING: Cristiano Ronaldo, Portugal
- European Championship Finalist: 2004
- UEFA Champions League Winner: 2008
- English Premier League Winner: 2007, 2008, 2009
- Ballon D'Or: 2008
- World Player of the Year: 2008
- UEFA Team of the Year: 2004, 2007, 2008
- FIFPro World XI: 2007, 2008
And too many other honors (individual and team) to list. The scary thing is that he is 24, and even with all he's accomplished, his best football is still ahead of him. Joined Manchester United after playing for Sporting Lisbon. Sporting beat United 3-1 in a friendly in 2003, prompting United players to urge Sir Alex Ferguson to sign Ronaldo. Took the English Premier League by storm from the moment he set foot on the pitch. Earned his reputation as a winger who could skin even the best defenders in 1v1 situations, but enhanced it with his versatility, showing he could play more centrally or as a striker. As deadly as they come on free kicks. Some still say he has big match stagefright, but his goal in the 2008 Champions League final helped cull some of that.
ATTACKING MIDFIELDER: Kaka, Brazil
- UEFA Champions League Winner, 2007
- UEFA Champions League Finalist, 2005
- Serie A Winner: 2004
- Ballon D'Or: 2007
- World Player of the Year: 2007
- UEFA Team of the Year: 2006, 2007
- FIFPro World XI: 2006, 2007, 2008
There is no questioning the heart or the ability of Kaka. Practically carried Milan on his back in 2007 on the way to the Champions League final, scoring some breathtaking goals along the way. Despite a couple of Confederations Cup wins with Brazil, the feeling is that his trophy case will at last be complete when he can lift the World Cup. Burst onto the scene in the 2003-04 season when he was bought for "peanuts" from Sao Paulo, and in his second season was voted UEFA's club midfielder of the year. Kaka has tremendous pace and technique, but like Ronaldo, is quite versatile and can play in a variety of places on the pitch. I like him to be the link to my striker in this lineup.
LEFT WING: Ronaldinho, Brazil
- World Cup Winner: 2002
- UEFA Champions League Winner: 2006
- La Liga Winner: 2005, 2006
- Ballon D'Or: 2005
- World Player of the Year: 2004, 2005
- UEFA Team of the Year: 2004, 2005, 2006
- FIFPro World XI: 2005, 2006, 2007
In a 2002 World Cup that had Brazil boasting names like Ronaldo, Rivaldo, and Cafu, few saw Ronaldinho coming. Really got everyone's attention with that wonder goal against England in the 2002 World Cup quarterfinals. Ronaldinho was the man that Frank Rijkaard looked upon to be a creator and goalscorer for the Barcelona teams of the mid-decade. Earned a bit of a reputation as a player who preferred the night life over concentrating on football, and as a result was benched at Barcelona towards the end of his spell there. Still, no one can question the man's skill. Another deadly free kick specialist, Ronaldinho is also never afraid to take on defenders or make that special pass to set up a goal.
STRIKER: Thierry Henry, France
- World Cup Finalist: 2006
- European Champion: 2000
- UEFA Champions League Winner: 2009
- UEFA Champions League Finalist: 2006
- English Premier League Winner: 2001-02, 2003-04
- La Liga Winner: 2008-09
- UEFA Team of the Year: 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2006
- FIFPro World XI: 2006
Okay, look past the handball because you will find the most reliable and prolific goalscorer of this decade. Over 250 goals in less than 500 appearances for Arsenal and Barcelona in the last ten years, meaning he's good for a goal every other game no matter the competition. Incredible pace and tremendous calmness in the penalty area. My favorite Henry moment was the closing of Highbury Stadium in 2006, where he scored a hat trick against Wigan as if it was scripted.
MANAGER: Jose Mourinho
- UEFA Champions League Winner: 2004
- UEFA Cup Winner: 2003
- Portuguese Liga Winner: 2002-03, 2003-04
- English Premier League Winner: 2004-05, 2005-06
- Italian Serie A Winner: 2008-09
- UEFA Manager of the Year: 2002-03, 2003-04
Quick, tell me what other manager won 5 domestic league titles and 2 continental competitions this decade. Thought so. I have a lot of high-priced talent here, and I need a manager that will deal with the egos in the dressing room. Mourinho has won wherever he's gone. Some may not like his brashness, but the bottom line is that he wins trophies. He may be a little more tactically rigid than I would normally like, but Mourinho would get this team to win.
SUBSTITUTE'S BENCH
- Iker Casillas, Spain: Kept an immaculate record for Spain in Euro 2008 and time and again has been called on to make saves at critical times for club and country. UEFA Team of the Year in 2007 and 2008 as well as FIFPro World XI in 2007 and 2008.
- Paolo Maldini, Italy: Captained Milan to Champions League wins in 2003 and 2007 as well as a runner-up in 2005. Played at the highest level until his retirement last season at age 40. UEFA Team of the Year: 2003, 2005. FIFPro World XI: 2005.
- John Terry, England: Another true lionheart of football. Look past that mistake in 2008. Captain of Chelsea for much of the decade. Tremendous fighting spirit and can nick the occasional goal on set pieces. UEFA Team of the Year: 2005, 2007, 2008. FIFPro World XI: 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008.
- Michael Ballack, Germany: Current German National Team Captain. Jokingly, the quintessential bridesmaid of the decade as he finished runner up in the Champions League in 2002, World Cup 2002, Euro 2008, Champions League 2008, and a bronze medalist for Germany in World Cup 2006. Another midfielder with a powerful mix of skill and combativeness.
- Lionel Messi, Argentina: There is no denying this young man's talent. Influential part of one of the greatest teams in the history of football, 2008-09 Barcelona. Brilliant scorer of goals. Favorite moment of Messi was his goal against Getafe in 2007 that mirrored Maradona's solo effort in World Cup 1986. UEFA Team of the Year: 2008. FIFPro World XI: 2007, 2008.
- Steven Gerrard, England: Maybe it's me, but I am a big fan of combative midfielders. Especially Gerrard, who many times through the years has carried Liverpool on his back. Started the memorable comeback against Milan with a goal in the 2005 Champions League final. Oh, and that goal in the 2006 FA Cup Final to send the match to extra time. UEFA Team of the Year: 2005, 2006, 2007. FIFPro World XI: 2007, 2008.
- Ronaldo, Brazil: If Henry is short of form, I need another lethal goalscorer. Enter Ronaldo, leading scorer at the 2002 World Cup and all time leading World Cup goalscorer. Had a very well publicized fall from grace later in the decade that keeps him out of the first 11, but no one could deny his talent. As composed as you like, and comfortable in 1v1 situations. Ballon D'or: 2002. World Player of the Year: 2002. UEFA Team of the Year: 2002.
So that is the team. Thanks in part to Wikipedia for some the stats. I think we could win a few games, but I would love the comments on this. Thanks for reading!
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
Grading the UEFA Champions League teams Group E through H
So part two of the grades for the UEFA Champions League teams goes a little something like this:
GROUP E
Fiorentina
Group Winners, 15 points
La Viola were left to rue their chances last season in a difficult group featuring Lyon and Bayern Munich. This time around, they secured qualification when it was largely expected that they'd be the Europa League team here. The thought was that they would fail to win at home on Matchday 5 against Lyon, and get pantsed by Liverpool on Matchday 6, sending the Reds through and law and order would be restored. Never happened, neither outcome. Fiorentina went at Lyon and got a penalty to win 1-0 and played to keep their result. And when it was thought Lyon would reclaim top of the group because Fiorentina would lose today to Liverpool, well the Tuscans came through with a late winner. 5 consecutive league wins after a 1-0 loss in France on Matchday one, and without Adrian Mutu for most of it. Played Lyon evenly, and beat Liverpool twice. 14 goals scored over their 6 games is second only to Real Madrid.
GRADE: A
Lyon
Group Runners Up, 13 points
Were thought to be the 2nd best team in this group going in, to Liverpool. So this position shouldn't surprise them, though the team that outlasted them is. Obviously quite dominant over their three games but what was most impressive was conceding only 3 goals, especially when they had matches with a midfielder deputising in the center of their defense (Jeremy Toulalan). One of the goals they conceded ultimately cost them a group win and leave them with a difficult knockout round opponent. Conversely though, Manchester United, Real Madrid, Chelsea, Barcelona, Sevilla and Arsenal will be happy to avoid them.
GRADE: B
Liverpool
Third in Group, 7 points
The classic example of why it is so important to finish games off. Liverpool have the quality to win this group, but late goals in three matches send them to the Europa League. Matchday 3, they drop a point by losing at home to Lyon late. Matchday 4, they drop two points at Lyon by allowing a late equaliser. Matchday 6, they drop another draw at home to Fiorentina on a late goal. Keep those points and by my calculations they finish 2nd in the group behind Fiorentina, sending Lyon to the Europa league. Rafa Benitez needs to look at the lack of discipline his side showed in these games as the reason they will probably be among the favorites to win the Europa League (if they care enough about it).
GRADE: F
Debrecen
Bottom of Group, 0 points
Not going to spend a lot of time on this one. Way, way, way, way overmatched and had to expect to be in this position. Still, a couple thrilling games with Fiorentina and kept it close against Liverpool.
GRADE: C-
GROUP F
FC Barcelona
Group Winners, 11 points
Well, much ado about nothing. The defending European Champions suffered a stunning defeat at the hands of Rubin Kazan at the Camp Nou and at that point it appeared their campaign was in jeopardy. After drawing the return match with the Russians, they beat Inter in a match where it didn't even seem like the Nerazzurri touched the ball. They followed that up with today's success at Dynamo Kiev to seal the group win. They had to deal with some injuries, but overall they have the quality to perform a lot better than they did.
GRADE: B
Inter Milan
Group Runner-Up, 9 points
They add Samuel Eto'o, Wesley Sneijder, and Lucio, and they still manage to underachieve on the big stage. They open up with 3 consecutive draws and then their campaign was in serious jeopardy in Kiev, until they rallied in the final 5 minutes. The secured 2nd spot in this group with a win today at home against Rubin Kazan, but that no show at Barcelona is an indicator of how far off they are from threatening to be European champions.
GRADE: C+
Rubin Kazan
Third in group, 6 points
The Russian champions had to see Barcelona and Inter and had to believe that they were playing for a Europa League place, so they can't be too disappointed with landing here. Yet, they took us on a pretty interesting ride, starting with that stunning upset at Barcelona. They proved it wasn't a fluke by drawing the Blaugrana at home. They also have a draw with Inter to their credit. They'll be disappointed to not have gotten more out of their matches against Dynamo Kiev, but ultimately they remain in Europe and will be a dangerous out in the Europa League.
GRADE: B
Dynamo Kiev
Bottom of Group, 5 points
They are bottom of the group, which might have been expected. However, they were closer than you think to advancing out of this group to the knockout stages. They had Inter on life support on Matchday 4, and couldn't close them out. They hold that 1-0 win, and they are on 8 points and 2nd today. Dynamo also opened with an early lead against Barcelona today before finally succumbing to defeat. They gave a tremendous account of themselves in what turned out to be the toughest group in the legaue stage.
GRADE: B
GROUP G
Sevilla
Group Winners, 13 points
They proved their worth as a seeded team that on paper looked like a tricky group to get through. They blitzed their way through each of their opponents the first time around, with a 100% record through the first three matchdays, and scoring 9 goals in the process. They had a less than inspiring draw with Stuttgart on Matchday 4 and a head-scratching defeat to Unirea Urziceni on Matchday 5, temporarily jeopardizing the stronghold they had on this group. They closed out with a home win over a disappointing Rangers team and if Luis Fabiano can get healthy, this team will continue to be a dangerous out in the knockout stages.
GRADE: B+
VFB Stuttgart
Group Runners Up, 9 points
Sack Markus Babbel, appoint Christian Gross as manager, score 3 goals in the first 11 minutes in the deciding match against Unirea Urziceni. That was simple, wasn't it? The 3-0 win on Matchday six will sugar coat what was an overall disappointing league run. Ultimately, Stuttgart achieved qualification. However, with the squad they have, it should have been a smoother ride. Victory at Rangers was helpful for their cause as well.
GRADE: C+
Unirea Urziceni
Third in Group, 8 points
When this group was put together, one could hardly be argued with if he felt the Romanians would not be good enough and would be the bottom team. To our surprise, Unirea went into Matchday 6 needing just a draw at Stuttgart to progress to the knockout stages. What happened in Stuttgart today was an indicator that they were not ready for the big stage after all. Yet, it's safe to say they still overachieved, and it's Unirea and not Rangers that are in the Europa League.
GRADE: B
Rangers
Bottom of Group, 2 points
Celtic's performance in the preliminaries and their failure to reach the league stage of the Champions League had to be a worrying sign for Scottish football. Rangers' dud in the league stage is confirmation of how far the Old Firm have fallen. Ibrox Stadium was a charity house for visitors, as Rangers got no points and were outscored 10-2 in those three games. They could only manage 4 goals over the 6 games altogether and just drew two matches. A team that probably felt it had a shot at progressing to the knockout stages even failed to reach the Europa League. It could have been worse, last year, they went out in the 2nd preliminary round to a Lithuanian team.
GRADE: D
GROUP H
Arsenal
Group Winners, 13 points
Ho hum. Like Manchester United and Chelsea, Arsenal were expected to win this group. It didn't start with a bang, though, as they spotted Standard Liege 2 goals in their opener in Belgium. Since then, they stepped up and outperformed their opposition as they were expected. The loss was at Olympiakos on Matchday 6, and Wenger played the kids in that one. If they can get healthy, they could make a deep run in the knockout stages.
GRADE: B
Olympiakos
Group Runners Up, 10 points
Olympiakos advance to the knockout stage, and realistically this group was about who would finish 2nd between three teams that were pretty balanced with respect to each other. I favored the Greeks, and they came through. They will be a tougher out for whoever they draw in the knockouts than you think, as manager Zico will have them organized and disciplined. They hold the most interesting stat, as they managed 10 points in their group while being outscored 5-4 in their 6 league matches.
GRADE: B
Standard Liege
Third in Group, 5 points
I have to say that Standard overachieved here. Gave favorites Arsenal a scare as I mentioned, and AZ Alkmaar had more overall talent. Their ability to beat Olympiakos gave them a brief chance at qualifying for the knockout stages, but that was dashed when Arsenal beat them on Matchday 5. They found themselves in a battle today with AZ Alkmaar for the Europa League place, and got the goal and the point they needed to stay in Europe.
GRADE: C+
AZ Alkmaar
Bottom of Group, 4 points
The Dutch Champions had to like their chances of at least staying in Europe beyond the group stage, whether in the knockout stages or the Europa League. But they struggled to cope with the pressure of the European stage, and failed to win a single match in this competition. Needed a win at Standard on Matchday 6, and surrendered a late goal to end their European season altogether.
GRADE: C-
So the teams have been graded, and we're 9 days away from the draw. How would you grade your team's performance in the Champions League group stage? Hit me up with your thoughts.
GROUP E
Fiorentina
Group Winners, 15 points
La Viola were left to rue their chances last season in a difficult group featuring Lyon and Bayern Munich. This time around, they secured qualification when it was largely expected that they'd be the Europa League team here. The thought was that they would fail to win at home on Matchday 5 against Lyon, and get pantsed by Liverpool on Matchday 6, sending the Reds through and law and order would be restored. Never happened, neither outcome. Fiorentina went at Lyon and got a penalty to win 1-0 and played to keep their result. And when it was thought Lyon would reclaim top of the group because Fiorentina would lose today to Liverpool, well the Tuscans came through with a late winner. 5 consecutive league wins after a 1-0 loss in France on Matchday one, and without Adrian Mutu for most of it. Played Lyon evenly, and beat Liverpool twice. 14 goals scored over their 6 games is second only to Real Madrid.
GRADE: A
Lyon
Group Runners Up, 13 points
Were thought to be the 2nd best team in this group going in, to Liverpool. So this position shouldn't surprise them, though the team that outlasted them is. Obviously quite dominant over their three games but what was most impressive was conceding only 3 goals, especially when they had matches with a midfielder deputising in the center of their defense (Jeremy Toulalan). One of the goals they conceded ultimately cost them a group win and leave them with a difficult knockout round opponent. Conversely though, Manchester United, Real Madrid, Chelsea, Barcelona, Sevilla and Arsenal will be happy to avoid them.
GRADE: B
Liverpool
Third in Group, 7 points
The classic example of why it is so important to finish games off. Liverpool have the quality to win this group, but late goals in three matches send them to the Europa League. Matchday 3, they drop a point by losing at home to Lyon late. Matchday 4, they drop two points at Lyon by allowing a late equaliser. Matchday 6, they drop another draw at home to Fiorentina on a late goal. Keep those points and by my calculations they finish 2nd in the group behind Fiorentina, sending Lyon to the Europa league. Rafa Benitez needs to look at the lack of discipline his side showed in these games as the reason they will probably be among the favorites to win the Europa League (if they care enough about it).
GRADE: F
Debrecen
Bottom of Group, 0 points
Not going to spend a lot of time on this one. Way, way, way, way overmatched and had to expect to be in this position. Still, a couple thrilling games with Fiorentina and kept it close against Liverpool.
GRADE: C-
GROUP F
FC Barcelona
Group Winners, 11 points
Well, much ado about nothing. The defending European Champions suffered a stunning defeat at the hands of Rubin Kazan at the Camp Nou and at that point it appeared their campaign was in jeopardy. After drawing the return match with the Russians, they beat Inter in a match where it didn't even seem like the Nerazzurri touched the ball. They followed that up with today's success at Dynamo Kiev to seal the group win. They had to deal with some injuries, but overall they have the quality to perform a lot better than they did.
GRADE: B
Inter Milan
Group Runner-Up, 9 points
They add Samuel Eto'o, Wesley Sneijder, and Lucio, and they still manage to underachieve on the big stage. They open up with 3 consecutive draws and then their campaign was in serious jeopardy in Kiev, until they rallied in the final 5 minutes. The secured 2nd spot in this group with a win today at home against Rubin Kazan, but that no show at Barcelona is an indicator of how far off they are from threatening to be European champions.
GRADE: C+
Rubin Kazan
Third in group, 6 points
The Russian champions had to see Barcelona and Inter and had to believe that they were playing for a Europa League place, so they can't be too disappointed with landing here. Yet, they took us on a pretty interesting ride, starting with that stunning upset at Barcelona. They proved it wasn't a fluke by drawing the Blaugrana at home. They also have a draw with Inter to their credit. They'll be disappointed to not have gotten more out of their matches against Dynamo Kiev, but ultimately they remain in Europe and will be a dangerous out in the Europa League.
GRADE: B
Dynamo Kiev
Bottom of Group, 5 points
They are bottom of the group, which might have been expected. However, they were closer than you think to advancing out of this group to the knockout stages. They had Inter on life support on Matchday 4, and couldn't close them out. They hold that 1-0 win, and they are on 8 points and 2nd today. Dynamo also opened with an early lead against Barcelona today before finally succumbing to defeat. They gave a tremendous account of themselves in what turned out to be the toughest group in the legaue stage.
GRADE: B
GROUP G
Sevilla
Group Winners, 13 points
They proved their worth as a seeded team that on paper looked like a tricky group to get through. They blitzed their way through each of their opponents the first time around, with a 100% record through the first three matchdays, and scoring 9 goals in the process. They had a less than inspiring draw with Stuttgart on Matchday 4 and a head-scratching defeat to Unirea Urziceni on Matchday 5, temporarily jeopardizing the stronghold they had on this group. They closed out with a home win over a disappointing Rangers team and if Luis Fabiano can get healthy, this team will continue to be a dangerous out in the knockout stages.
GRADE: B+
VFB Stuttgart
Group Runners Up, 9 points
Sack Markus Babbel, appoint Christian Gross as manager, score 3 goals in the first 11 minutes in the deciding match against Unirea Urziceni. That was simple, wasn't it? The 3-0 win on Matchday six will sugar coat what was an overall disappointing league run. Ultimately, Stuttgart achieved qualification. However, with the squad they have, it should have been a smoother ride. Victory at Rangers was helpful for their cause as well.
GRADE: C+
Unirea Urziceni
Third in Group, 8 points
When this group was put together, one could hardly be argued with if he felt the Romanians would not be good enough and would be the bottom team. To our surprise, Unirea went into Matchday 6 needing just a draw at Stuttgart to progress to the knockout stages. What happened in Stuttgart today was an indicator that they were not ready for the big stage after all. Yet, it's safe to say they still overachieved, and it's Unirea and not Rangers that are in the Europa League.
GRADE: B
Rangers
Bottom of Group, 2 points
Celtic's performance in the preliminaries and their failure to reach the league stage of the Champions League had to be a worrying sign for Scottish football. Rangers' dud in the league stage is confirmation of how far the Old Firm have fallen. Ibrox Stadium was a charity house for visitors, as Rangers got no points and were outscored 10-2 in those three games. They could only manage 4 goals over the 6 games altogether and just drew two matches. A team that probably felt it had a shot at progressing to the knockout stages even failed to reach the Europa League. It could have been worse, last year, they went out in the 2nd preliminary round to a Lithuanian team.
GRADE: D
GROUP H
Arsenal
Group Winners, 13 points
Ho hum. Like Manchester United and Chelsea, Arsenal were expected to win this group. It didn't start with a bang, though, as they spotted Standard Liege 2 goals in their opener in Belgium. Since then, they stepped up and outperformed their opposition as they were expected. The loss was at Olympiakos on Matchday 6, and Wenger played the kids in that one. If they can get healthy, they could make a deep run in the knockout stages.
GRADE: B
Olympiakos
Group Runners Up, 10 points
Olympiakos advance to the knockout stage, and realistically this group was about who would finish 2nd between three teams that were pretty balanced with respect to each other. I favored the Greeks, and they came through. They will be a tougher out for whoever they draw in the knockouts than you think, as manager Zico will have them organized and disciplined. They hold the most interesting stat, as they managed 10 points in their group while being outscored 5-4 in their 6 league matches.
GRADE: B
Standard Liege
Third in Group, 5 points
I have to say that Standard overachieved here. Gave favorites Arsenal a scare as I mentioned, and AZ Alkmaar had more overall talent. Their ability to beat Olympiakos gave them a brief chance at qualifying for the knockout stages, but that was dashed when Arsenal beat them on Matchday 5. They found themselves in a battle today with AZ Alkmaar for the Europa League place, and got the goal and the point they needed to stay in Europe.
GRADE: C+
AZ Alkmaar
Bottom of Group, 4 points
The Dutch Champions had to like their chances of at least staying in Europe beyond the group stage, whether in the knockout stages or the Europa League. But they struggled to cope with the pressure of the European stage, and failed to win a single match in this competition. Needed a win at Standard on Matchday 6, and surrendered a late goal to end their European season altogether.
GRADE: C-
So the teams have been graded, and we're 9 days away from the draw. How would you grade your team's performance in the Champions League group stage? Hit me up with your thoughts.
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
Grading the UEFA Champions League team Groups A-D.
Having a look at the performances of the UEFA Champions League teams after the group stage. Teams are graded A, B, C, D, or F based on how they performed versus their expectations. Yes, Ds and Fs are possible, I'm from the old school, where you fail if you're not good enough.
GROUP A
FC Girondins de Bordeaux
Group Winners, 16 points
Raise your hand if you saw that coming. Bordeaux, managed by Laurent Blanc, was on most people's list to qualify for the Europa League out of this group because they were competing with two giants of European Football in Juventus and Bayern Munich. The French outfit, who also lead French Ligue 1, went through the group with nearly a 100% record and ripped off 5 straight wins after drawing the opener at Juventus. They might boast players like Mourane Chamakh and Yoann Gourcuff in attack, but they also finished this section only conceding 2 goals.
GRADE: A
FC Bayern Munich
Group Runners Up, 10 points
Qualification for the knockout stages was the goal for the Germans, and they did so in style. If you saw them going to Olimpico in Turin and putting 4 past Juventus, call me and tell me the winning lottery numbers for tomorrow. That performance will make people forget about the double bossing they took at the hands of Bordeaux. It seems that under Louis van Gaal they are turning the corner, and they should have Ribery and Robben both healthy for the knockout stages. The Group Winners will be very happy to avoid them when the draw comes.
GRADE: B
Juventus FC
3rd in Group, 8 points
In the dictionary under "crashing out of a competition" you'll now find Juventus' 2009-10 Champions League campaign. Some hope had to be felt after they beat Inter on Saturday but to have given away a qualifying spot so cheaply at home, and prior to that get beaten at Bordeaux, will heap pressure on first year boss Ciro Ferrara. Prior to these last two match days, Juventus had only conceded 1 goal. So much promise with talents like Diego, Felipe Melo, Del Piero, and Buffon to be heading to the Europa League at this stage.
GRADE: D+
Maccabi Haifa
Bottom of Group, 0 points
The Israeli team could not have expected to have been anywhere else but this position. The three teams ahead of them are too much to cope with. However, they should have had enough to snatch a point somewhere. They failed to even score a goal in any of the six matches. Thoroughly outclassed in this group and literally nothing to show for their efforts.
GRADE: D
GROUP B
Manchester United FC
Group Winners, 13 points
Ultimately, it was expected that Manchester United would be top of this group. Considering the rash of injuries they had been hit with in the first half of this season, this would be a more significant accomplishment. You have to give credit to Sir Alex Ferguson. A back four of Park Ji Sung, Michael Carrick, Darren Fletcher, and Patrice Evra travelling to a Wolfsburg side that is very loaded in attack was gutsy, even if it was last resort. To win 3-1 and consign the Germans to the Europa League might have been unexpected. They had to win at some tough places (Turkey and Russia) to build their campaign.
GRADE: B
CSKA Moscow
Group Runners Up, 10 points
The Russians went on an impressive run to secure qualification for the knockout stages after getting only 3 points in their first four matches. They had Manchester United dead and buried but couldn't quite close them out at Old Trafford, but then defeated Wolfsburg on Matchday 5 to make qualification more of a possibility. Their win in Turkey today against Besiktas showed that with the draw in England, they will be difficult to deal with home or away. Milos Krasic was very impressive in his performances during the group stage, and you can bet the big clubs will be inquiring about him this summer.
GRADE: B+
GROUP A
FC Girondins de Bordeaux
Group Winners, 16 points
Raise your hand if you saw that coming. Bordeaux, managed by Laurent Blanc, was on most people's list to qualify for the Europa League out of this group because they were competing with two giants of European Football in Juventus and Bayern Munich. The French outfit, who also lead French Ligue 1, went through the group with nearly a 100% record and ripped off 5 straight wins after drawing the opener at Juventus. They might boast players like Mourane Chamakh and Yoann Gourcuff in attack, but they also finished this section only conceding 2 goals.
GRADE: A
FC Bayern Munich
Group Runners Up, 10 points
Qualification for the knockout stages was the goal for the Germans, and they did so in style. If you saw them going to Olimpico in Turin and putting 4 past Juventus, call me and tell me the winning lottery numbers for tomorrow. That performance will make people forget about the double bossing they took at the hands of Bordeaux. It seems that under Louis van Gaal they are turning the corner, and they should have Ribery and Robben both healthy for the knockout stages. The Group Winners will be very happy to avoid them when the draw comes.
GRADE: B
Juventus FC
3rd in Group, 8 points
In the dictionary under "crashing out of a competition" you'll now find Juventus' 2009-10 Champions League campaign. Some hope had to be felt after they beat Inter on Saturday but to have given away a qualifying spot so cheaply at home, and prior to that get beaten at Bordeaux, will heap pressure on first year boss Ciro Ferrara. Prior to these last two match days, Juventus had only conceded 1 goal. So much promise with talents like Diego, Felipe Melo, Del Piero, and Buffon to be heading to the Europa League at this stage.
GRADE: D+
Maccabi Haifa
Bottom of Group, 0 points
The Israeli team could not have expected to have been anywhere else but this position. The three teams ahead of them are too much to cope with. However, they should have had enough to snatch a point somewhere. They failed to even score a goal in any of the six matches. Thoroughly outclassed in this group and literally nothing to show for their efforts.
GRADE: D
GROUP B
Manchester United FC
Group Winners, 13 points
Ultimately, it was expected that Manchester United would be top of this group. Considering the rash of injuries they had been hit with in the first half of this season, this would be a more significant accomplishment. You have to give credit to Sir Alex Ferguson. A back four of Park Ji Sung, Michael Carrick, Darren Fletcher, and Patrice Evra travelling to a Wolfsburg side that is very loaded in attack was gutsy, even if it was last resort. To win 3-1 and consign the Germans to the Europa League might have been unexpected. They had to win at some tough places (Turkey and Russia) to build their campaign.
GRADE: B
CSKA Moscow
Group Runners Up, 10 points
The Russians went on an impressive run to secure qualification for the knockout stages after getting only 3 points in their first four matches. They had Manchester United dead and buried but couldn't quite close them out at Old Trafford, but then defeated Wolfsburg on Matchday 5 to make qualification more of a possibility. Their win in Turkey today against Besiktas showed that with the draw in England, they will be difficult to deal with home or away. Milos Krasic was very impressive in his performances during the group stage, and you can bet the big clubs will be inquiring about him this summer.
GRADE: B+
Wolfsburg
Third in Group, 7 points
I thought that not only would Wolfsburg qualify out of this group, but they would have the attacking talent to give Manchester United a run for group winner. Boy have they disappointed. Everyone's darling last season in being the surprise Bundesliga winners had to be happy with this draw when it came out, and happier that they hung on to Edin Dzeko. They had a makeshift Man United backline to deal with today and could only produce one goal, subpar for the talent they have in attack. Prior to that, they give away a lead in Moscow and drop all three points at the hands of CSKA, who overtook them for a place in the knockout rounds. They stay in Europe with a Europa League place, but enough went on here that they have to rue the missed chances.
GRADE: C+
Besiktas
Bottom of Group, 4 points
The Turkish side were definitely on paper the weakest team in this group, but they had to feel they were good enough to perhaps steal a Europa League place. They had that very opportunity today hosting CSKA Moscow and they let it get away from them. Still, this is where I expected them to be and they ought to feel good about the fact they snapped Manchester United's unbeaten home record in the Champions League, so it wasn't a total failure.
GRADE: C
GROUP C
Real Madrid
Group Winners, 13 points
With the star power they acquired in the offseason, Real Madrid had to be figured as the favorite to win whatever group they were placed in. They put on a show in the process, producing 15 goals over 6 games to finish as group winner. They had to cope without Cristiano Ronaldo over the two matchdays against Milan, and those served to be their only blemishes in the group stage, but his performance in Marseille tonight showed what Los Merengues were missing. As long as he stays healthy, Real Madrid will be looked at as one of the favorites to get to the Bernabeu on May 22nd.
GRADE: B+
AC Milan
Group Runners Up, 9 points
Tranisition or not, losing to and drawing FC Zurich defies the lofty standards the Rossoneri have set in the history of this competition. However, they balance that with a 3-2 win at the Bernabeu over Real Madrid and a home draw against the Spaniards. They were able to win at Marseille, which I felt would be their most important match. They have to look at the 5 dropped points from FC Zurich though, and realize that they are group winners had they not given those away. While not the way anyone would have expected, Milan achieved qualification.
GRADE: B-
Olympique Marseille
Third in Group, 7 points
Marseille entered this group knowing they would probably keep a place in Europe after the league stage, but legitimately felt they could knock off Milan for the 2nd spot in this group. Those hopes took a massive hit when beaten by the Rossoneri on Matchday 1 at the Velodrome, and ultimately defined who would join Real Madrid in advancing. They took all six of their points from FC Zurich, but could only manage one point in their four matches against Real Madrid and Milan. That said, a crossbar and an upright at the San Siro got in the way of their progress to the knockout stage. They performed well enough to advance, but they have to settle for a Europa League spot after all. If motivated, they will be a dangerous team in that competition.
GRADE: C+
FC Zurich
Bottom of Group, 4 points
When they got this draw they had to imagine that this is where they would finish. In fact their manager, Bernard Challandes, said as much in his presser earlier this week. Then came that magical night at the San Siro where Tihinen's backheel gave them hope. It was quickly dashed over two matches with Marseille, but they drew Milan again on Matchday Six to prove the win wasn't a fluke. In a group where it was thought they'd be lucky to get a point, they still finished 4th as expected, but certainly overachieved.
GRADE: B
GROUP D
Chelsea
Group Winners, 14 points
There's not much of a wow factor here, Chelsea was expected to win this group, and it was down to Porto and Atletico as to who would join them. The beat Atletico at Stamford Bridge 4-0. Going into this group stage, you would have thought "wow, that was impressive," but considering the Spaniards' struggles it was just another win. The draw at Atletico was thanks to two wonder strikes by Aguero (who Chelsea want to buy) and the home draw to APOEL was with an experimental lineup. Looking at this group stage for the Blues, mission accomplished, but nothing beyond it.
GRADE: B
Porto
Group Runners Up, 12 points
If you went into this group stage thinking Porto's luck would finally run out as far as getting to the knockout stages, you wouldn't have had much of an argument. The presence of an Atletico Madrid team full of promise, coupled with additional departures of players in the offseason would have probably factored in. Instead, Porto dominated the Spaniards over their two games and that ultimately proved to be the difference. Jesualdo Ferreira is proving to be among the best tacticians and managers in Europe with his ability to do more with less. Additionally, they had two very close matches with Chelsea, and poised themselves as a team the group winners will hope to avoid come draw time.
GRADE: A-
Atletico Madrid
Third in Group, 3 points
This was one of the teams I was most impressed with during the qualifying stage. Considering they have such great attacking talent in Sergio Aguero, Diego Forlan, Simao, and Maxi Rodriguez, one would think they would have gotten to the knockouts and given Chelsea a bit of a scare in their games. Instead, they probably could have a very lively discussion with Liverpool and perhaps Rangers and Juventus over who was the most disappointing team in the group stage. The 12 goals conceded currently match Rangers and only Zurich and Debrecen have conceded more. And all that attacking power? Just 3 goals scored. Quique Sanchez Flores has some real straightening out to do before they head to the Europa League.
GRADE: F
APOEL
Bottom of Group, 3 points
Another team that had to expect to finish bottom. Like Zurich though, APOEL might have overachieved. They were able to draw Atletico twice (impressive by APOEL's standards) and finish with a draw at Chelsea (scored twice, something everyone since August have struggled to do).
GRADE: B-
Coming up, grading Groups E through H. Get in on the debate with your comments.
Friday, December 4, 2009
World Cup Draw: Winners and Losers
The knee-jerk reaction to the World Cup Draw.
WINNERS:
Argentina
Much was made about the Argentinians failures in playing at altitude (lost qualifiers in Ecuador and Bolivia). Mention was made that the sites for the seeded team in Group B would be played in the lowest of altitudes in South Africa. It also helps that they had a very favorable draw for Group B with Nigeria, South Korea, and Greece. Nigeria is a familiar foe to Diego Maradona's team, having faced them in the 1994 and 2002 World Cups. Nigeria, however, has not been the Nigeria of old. South Korea will have some really pacy players but the quality of Messi and co. should be too much for them. Greece will be organized under Otto Rehhagel and arguably the toughest test, but the former European champions lack the attacking power to keep up. Oh, and they'll get the runner up of Group A, which could be any one of South Africa, Uruguay, or Mexico. If Maradona doesn't screw this up, the Argentinians are set up for a deep run.
France
More reason for the Republic of Ireland to be pissed. Les Bleus got the luck of the draw for the European teams in pot 4 by landing in South Africa's group (had Ireland advanced they would be in Group A). They open with Uruguay and then Mexico before closing out against the hosts. Uruguay barely qualified, outlasting Costa Rica over 180 minutes and Mexico has failed to make it past the 2nd round in the last 4 World Cups (they reached the quarterfinals as hosts in 1986). South Africa is their last opponent, and while they are the hosts, they are the lowest ranked team according to FIFA. They should win this group, and get the runner up of a weak Group B (Nigeria, South Korea, or Greece will await).
USA
Sure, everyone in pots 2-4 wanted to end up in South Africa's group, but the odds of that for Sam's Army was 1 in 8. England is not the worst thing to happen to them as far as the seeded team they drew, but will be a physically imposing challenge. On the other hand, they get an Algeria side that beat Egypt (USA beat Egypt 3-0 in June) and a Slovenia side that are here thanks to a Russian meltdown. Chances as great as ever to reach the 2nd round. They're good enough to realistically get a draw with England, and after that it will come down to goal difference with the other two opponents. A nice little cure for not having Charlie Davies and potentially Oguchi Onyewu next summer.
Italy
The defending World champions will be very happy with this draw. Starting with a front heavy Paraguay that should give them problems but the Azzurri should be good enough to win. They also get New Zealand and Slovakia. The disappointing showing in the Confederations Cup for the Italians will be a motivating factor for them. Traditionally slow starters, this is a group that they'll survive their slow start in.
Spain
The defending European champions got what I think is a draw that plays perfectly for them. Going back in history, Spain has never lost a match to any of the teams they face in their group (in 18 games against Switzerland they have won 15 and drawn 3, outscoring them 45-15). If they use history as a motivator, they'll be very prepared for Honduras, who tied them in their only meeting, in the 1982 World Cup (oh by the way, Spain was host). Chile have some up and coming players but they will surely be trying to play for group runner-up.
Our Ears
Vuvuzelas were banned from use at the draw. However, they have not been banned yet from the tournament because they are part of the culture. But for the first time we watched something broadcast live in South Africa that didn't leave us needing to get our hearing checked.
LOSERS:
South Africa
I'm talking about the team, not the nation that's hosting. It looks like the host nation, aside from the vuvuzelas, are ready to stage this event. Getting Mexico out of pot 2 was likely the least desirable draw for them. Diego Forlan and Luis Suarez are capable of scoring on anyone in this group for Uruguay. They finish with a French side that, considering the circumstances of their qualification, will be determined to prove to the world that they deserve to be here. Could be the first host to fail to qualify for the 2nd round.
Germany
They benefitted from rather easy groups in 2006 and 2002, and finally will have a group where they will have to be at their best. Australia reached the 2nd round last season and have enough quality to pull off a surprise. Meanwhile, Serbia and Ghana both have the blend of skill and physical quality to upset the Germans. Consdering the draws that Argentina, England, Italy and Spain got, this is a tough one for the three-time winners.
All of Group G
Yeeeeeeesh!!!! First off, welcome back to the World Cup, North Korea. That was nice what you did in 1966, beating Italy and giving Portugal a run for their money. Here, we'll give you another shot at Portugal. And for good measure, you get Brazil and Ivory Coast as well.
The suggestion is that North Korea might not want to show up. But Brazil finally gets a group where they are really going to have to earn their keep. Their groups in 2006, 2002 and 1998 were cakewalks at best. The Ivorians are loaded and probably the best African team in the competition. Portugal have reigning World Player of the Year Cristiano Ronaldo, and while they struggled through qualification, are very capable of topping this group. This, like the Argentina-England-Sweden-Nigeria group of 2002, is a World Cup in itself, except for North Korea of course.
Charlize Theron
Brought absolutely nothing to this procedure and the draw could have been shortened by about 15 minutes without her up there. A friend of mine suggested that maybe she was acting. She's acted FAR better than that.
Who were your winners and losers of the draw? Hit me up with your thoughts.
WINNERS:
Argentina
Much was made about the Argentinians failures in playing at altitude (lost qualifiers in Ecuador and Bolivia). Mention was made that the sites for the seeded team in Group B would be played in the lowest of altitudes in South Africa. It also helps that they had a very favorable draw for Group B with Nigeria, South Korea, and Greece. Nigeria is a familiar foe to Diego Maradona's team, having faced them in the 1994 and 2002 World Cups. Nigeria, however, has not been the Nigeria of old. South Korea will have some really pacy players but the quality of Messi and co. should be too much for them. Greece will be organized under Otto Rehhagel and arguably the toughest test, but the former European champions lack the attacking power to keep up. Oh, and they'll get the runner up of Group A, which could be any one of South Africa, Uruguay, or Mexico. If Maradona doesn't screw this up, the Argentinians are set up for a deep run.
France
More reason for the Republic of Ireland to be pissed. Les Bleus got the luck of the draw for the European teams in pot 4 by landing in South Africa's group (had Ireland advanced they would be in Group A). They open with Uruguay and then Mexico before closing out against the hosts. Uruguay barely qualified, outlasting Costa Rica over 180 minutes and Mexico has failed to make it past the 2nd round in the last 4 World Cups (they reached the quarterfinals as hosts in 1986). South Africa is their last opponent, and while they are the hosts, they are the lowest ranked team according to FIFA. They should win this group, and get the runner up of a weak Group B (Nigeria, South Korea, or Greece will await).
USA
Sure, everyone in pots 2-4 wanted to end up in South Africa's group, but the odds of that for Sam's Army was 1 in 8. England is not the worst thing to happen to them as far as the seeded team they drew, but will be a physically imposing challenge. On the other hand, they get an Algeria side that beat Egypt (USA beat Egypt 3-0 in June) and a Slovenia side that are here thanks to a Russian meltdown. Chances as great as ever to reach the 2nd round. They're good enough to realistically get a draw with England, and after that it will come down to goal difference with the other two opponents. A nice little cure for not having Charlie Davies and potentially Oguchi Onyewu next summer.
Italy
The defending World champions will be very happy with this draw. Starting with a front heavy Paraguay that should give them problems but the Azzurri should be good enough to win. They also get New Zealand and Slovakia. The disappointing showing in the Confederations Cup for the Italians will be a motivating factor for them. Traditionally slow starters, this is a group that they'll survive their slow start in.
Spain
The defending European champions got what I think is a draw that plays perfectly for them. Going back in history, Spain has never lost a match to any of the teams they face in their group (in 18 games against Switzerland they have won 15 and drawn 3, outscoring them 45-15). If they use history as a motivator, they'll be very prepared for Honduras, who tied them in their only meeting, in the 1982 World Cup (oh by the way, Spain was host). Chile have some up and coming players but they will surely be trying to play for group runner-up.
Our Ears
Vuvuzelas were banned from use at the draw. However, they have not been banned yet from the tournament because they are part of the culture. But for the first time we watched something broadcast live in South Africa that didn't leave us needing to get our hearing checked.
LOSERS:
South Africa
I'm talking about the team, not the nation that's hosting. It looks like the host nation, aside from the vuvuzelas, are ready to stage this event. Getting Mexico out of pot 2 was likely the least desirable draw for them. Diego Forlan and Luis Suarez are capable of scoring on anyone in this group for Uruguay. They finish with a French side that, considering the circumstances of their qualification, will be determined to prove to the world that they deserve to be here. Could be the first host to fail to qualify for the 2nd round.
Germany
They benefitted from rather easy groups in 2006 and 2002, and finally will have a group where they will have to be at their best. Australia reached the 2nd round last season and have enough quality to pull off a surprise. Meanwhile, Serbia and Ghana both have the blend of skill and physical quality to upset the Germans. Consdering the draws that Argentina, England, Italy and Spain got, this is a tough one for the three-time winners.
All of Group G
Yeeeeeeesh!!!! First off, welcome back to the World Cup, North Korea. That was nice what you did in 1966, beating Italy and giving Portugal a run for their money. Here, we'll give you another shot at Portugal. And for good measure, you get Brazil and Ivory Coast as well.
The suggestion is that North Korea might not want to show up. But Brazil finally gets a group where they are really going to have to earn their keep. Their groups in 2006, 2002 and 1998 were cakewalks at best. The Ivorians are loaded and probably the best African team in the competition. Portugal have reigning World Player of the Year Cristiano Ronaldo, and while they struggled through qualification, are very capable of topping this group. This, like the Argentina-England-Sweden-Nigeria group of 2002, is a World Cup in itself, except for North Korea of course.
Charlize Theron
Brought absolutely nothing to this procedure and the draw could have been shortened by about 15 minutes without her up there. A friend of mine suggested that maybe she was acting. She's acted FAR better than that.
Who were your winners and losers of the draw? Hit me up with your thoughts.
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
The Euro Rankings 12.1.2009
So much football since the International Break, it seems. A thrilling day of games on Sunday, so what did it do to the rankings? Have a look:
1. Chelsea FC
Top of English Premier League, Winners of UEFA Champions League Group D:
Yeah I'm Convinced: Play a fellow title rival, beat them, get a clean sheet, repeat. Pretty standard formula under Carlo Ancelotti to date.
I'm Not So Sure: There's a team sitting 2nd in these rankings that are the reigning European champions and put up two wins against continental giants.
2. FC Barcelona
Top of La Liga, Top of UEFA Champions League Group F
Yeah, I'm Convinced: What? Beat, I mean boss Inter without Messi and Ibrahimovic, and win El Clasico, and Barcelona is 2nd? Robbery!
I'm Not So Sure: The struggles in group play in the Champions League are still a little too fresh, but for all practical purposes, Chelsea is #1 and Barcelona is #1A.
3. Manchester United
2nd in English Premier League, Top of Champions League Group B
Yeah, I'm Convinced: They're doing that thing where they crush everyone inferior to them. 4-1 at Portsmouth and 3-0 over Everton are signs that the machine is starting to hum.
I'm Not So Sure: The Arsenal win is their signature win to date, that was over three months ago, and I've said enough about how fortunate they were to win that. Even the youngsters of this squad should not have that much trouble at home against Besiktas.
4. Bordeaux
Top of French Ligue 1, Winners of UEFA Champions League Group A
Yeah, I'm Convinced: Be honest, you never thought they would win their group in the Champions League, let alone qualify out of the group stage. This is a well-balanced team under Laurent Blanc, and Yoann Gourcuff might be highly sought after next summer.
I'm Not So Sure: Being unbeaten in 4 matches against Bayern Munich and Juventus might not be all that much to get excited about considering the form of those teams. There's an ugly loss at home to Valenciennes to be grouchy about too.
5. Real Madrid
2nd in La Liga, Top of UEFA Champions League Group C
Yeah, I'm Convinced: Had it not been for Victor Valdes and Carlos Puyol, Real Madrid might have been moved into #2 in the rankings. Ronaldo is back, so the movement should be upward now.
I'm Not So Sure: They could only manage one goal in the win at home over FC Zurich, as well as only one goal in the home win over Racing Santander. Ronaldo or not, those results should have been more impressive.
6. Sevilla
3rd in La Liga, Top of UEFA Champions League Group G
Yeah, I'm Convinced: As long as Luis Fabiano keeps up his scoring form, Sevilla will be in it till the end in the Spanish top flight. They still have the Real Madrid win on their record. However......
I'm Not So Sure: The Real Madrid win was almost two months ago and Ronaldo was hurt for that match. Now there's an ugly loss to Unirea Urziceni to go with that draw to struggling Stuttgart. Even though they have been successful in getting points, there are now issues in conceding goals (5 in their last 3 league matches).
7. Inter Milan
Top of Italian Serie A, 2nd in UEFA Champions League Group F
Yeah, I'm Convinced: They are flexing their muscle in Italy with 33 goals through their first 14 matches. That 1-0 defeat is characteristic of wins that help Inter establish the dominance they've enjoyed in Serie A. However.....
I'm Not So Sure: They blew a glorious opportunity to bury a Barcelona team and you could argue they looked uninspired. If they don't rally in those closing minutes in Kiev, the Nerazzurri would be sitting here eliminated from the Champions League. One of the more puzzling teams in Europe to figure out.
8. AC Milan
2nd in Italian Serie A, 2nd in UEFA Champions League Group C
Yeah, I'm Convinced: Enjoying the longest unbeaten run in all competitions out of anyone in the top 10 on this list (11 matches). In that span, they've scored 22 goals. Ronaldinho is just about back to his best.
I'm Not So Sure: Marseille and Cagliari exposed the defensive flaws in this team, and had it not been for a crossbar and an upright, it would be Marseille in 2nd and not Milan. Even with this terrific run, there's still some fragility.
9. Arsenal
4th in English Premier League, Winners of UEFA Champions League Group H
Yeah, I'm Convinced: They ran into a Chelsea buzzsaw on Sunday, had the Gunners been fully fit, the chances of beating the Blues would have been a little better.
I'm Not So Sure: That's the problem, there are a lot of injury issues at the moment (Van Persie's is most glaring). With the current available squad, would you take them over Lyon? Sunderland's been good, but that's three points Arsenal should not be dropping.
10. Lyon
2nd in French Ligue 1, 2nd in UEFA Champions League Group E
Yeah, I'm Convinced: The quality in the team is still there to make it interesting against teams like Arsenal, Milan, Inter, and Sevilla. Lopez, Gomis, and Pjanic are proving to be as deadly an attacking combination as there is. However.......
I'm Not So Sure: There isn't a quality win to feel all warm and fuzzy about, and while winning at Anfield was impressive, Liverpool is not Liverpool right now. They are still having issues shoring their defense as well, with 18 conceded through their first 14 league matches.
11. Tottenham Hotspur
3rd in English Premier League.
Earned a point at Aston Villa, and maybe deserved more. Oh, and 9 goals in a Premier League match, no matter who it's against, is impressive. There's still the would they be this good if they had Europe distracting them factor.
12. Bayer Leverkusen
Top of German Bundesliga
Still unbeaten in Germany's top flight, and with the best defensive record (9 conceded) and second best scoring record (30 for). Another team with no European distraction. The argument could be made that the German Bundesliga is the 5th best league in Europe this season. How long will Stefan Kiessling stick around?
13. Juventus
3rd in Serie A, 2nd in UEFA Champions League Group A
My pick to win Italian Serie A this season has been very puzzling to figure out lately. While they have been solid in both competitions, they are dropping some strange points. A win over Inter this weekend, and survive Bayern Munich next week, and they're back in the top 10.
14. Fiorentina
10th in Italian Serie A, Top of UEFA Champions League Group E.
So a tenth place team is 14th on my list. Why? Because they are only 3 points out of 4th and 4 out of 3rd. That's how tight it is in Italy right now. Needed a pk and defensive heroics to survive Lyon, and was a Gilardino-missed sitter away from perhaps winning at Inter. A balanced team that seems to be having one thing each game go right or wrong for them.
15. Rubin Kazan
Russian Premier League Winners, 3rd in UEFA Champions League Group F.
The downslide will continue unless they defeat Inter at the San Siro next week, which would put them through to the knockout stage of the Champions League. Not saying the Russian Premier League is too weak, it's just the teams that have passed them have posted more impressive results lately.
16. Werder Bremen
2nd in German Bundesliga, Top of UEFA Europa League Group L
They still haven't lost since August in all competitions and are coming off a 2-2 draw with Wolfsburg. Werder is the highest scoring side in Germany and they have their goals coming from multiple sources. As good as anyone that will be in the Europa League knockout stages.
17. Valencia
4th in La Liga, Top of UEFA Europa League Group B
Their unbeaten run has extended to 14 in all competitions, and are holding steady in 4th in Spain. If you would take them over Werder, Rubin Kazan, Fiorentina, or Juventus, I'd wouldn't argue with you much.
18. Deportivo
5th in La Liga
3 Consecutive wins in Spain and holding an impressive defense record, prove it time as they take on Barcelona at the weekend.
19. Olympiakos
Top of Greek League, 2nd in UEFA Champions League Group H
They have overtaken rival Panathinaikos on the domestic front and gained another point in the travels in the Champions League. Just a point at home against Arsenal next week will secure qualification to the group stage.
20. CSKA Moscow
5th in Russian Premier League, 3rd in UEFA Champions League Group B
Really here thanks to their Champions League run. Should have beaten Man United at Old Trafford and beat Wolfsburg. They have a great chance of securing a knockout stage place but must win at Besiktas.
21. Bayern Munich
4th in German Bundesliga, 3rd in UEFA Champions League Group A
Drew with leaders Leverkusen and have positioned themselves to advance to the knockout stage of the Champions League with a win at Juventus next week.
22. SC Braga
Top of Portuguese League
Time to give Braga some love. Currently top of their domestic table, holding off Benfica and Porto. Braga also beat each of those teams by the way. Would they be running this well if they had to play in Europe too?
23. Wolfsburg
8th in German Bundesliga, 2nd in UEFA Champions League Group B
They hold the aggregate advantage over CSKA but the recent defeat has to be unsettling. They must beat Manchester United (good thing they are at home) to assure qualification.
24. Aston Villa
6th in English Premier League
The home record is better, and they are still hanging around this list thanks to beating Chelsea, as well as a draw with Tottenham in recent games.
25. FC Porto
3rd in Portuguese League, Qualified as Runner Up in UEFA Champions League Group D
Jesualdo Ferreira's men should take no shame in losing to a Chelsea side that is not only hard to beat but hard to score on. Might be his best coaching effort yet considering the players lost in the summer.
OTHERS CONSIDERED
Benfica
Manchester City (drawing way too many games, had to drop them)
Liverpool (despite not qualifying for the knockouts they could return to the top 25)
Hamburg
Schalke
Real Mallorca
Marseille
Sampdoria
Cagliari
Fenerbahce
Galatasaray
Panathinaikos
Unirea Urziceni
So there are the rankings, really a lot of movement at bottom thanks to some teams hitting some disappointing results. Debate by commenting if you wish.
1. Chelsea FC
Top of English Premier League, Winners of UEFA Champions League Group D:
Yeah I'm Convinced: Play a fellow title rival, beat them, get a clean sheet, repeat. Pretty standard formula under Carlo Ancelotti to date.
I'm Not So Sure: There's a team sitting 2nd in these rankings that are the reigning European champions and put up two wins against continental giants.
2. FC Barcelona
Top of La Liga, Top of UEFA Champions League Group F
Yeah, I'm Convinced: What? Beat, I mean boss Inter without Messi and Ibrahimovic, and win El Clasico, and Barcelona is 2nd? Robbery!
I'm Not So Sure: The struggles in group play in the Champions League are still a little too fresh, but for all practical purposes, Chelsea is #1 and Barcelona is #1A.
3. Manchester United
2nd in English Premier League, Top of Champions League Group B
Yeah, I'm Convinced: They're doing that thing where they crush everyone inferior to them. 4-1 at Portsmouth and 3-0 over Everton are signs that the machine is starting to hum.
I'm Not So Sure: The Arsenal win is their signature win to date, that was over three months ago, and I've said enough about how fortunate they were to win that. Even the youngsters of this squad should not have that much trouble at home against Besiktas.
4. Bordeaux
Top of French Ligue 1, Winners of UEFA Champions League Group A
Yeah, I'm Convinced: Be honest, you never thought they would win their group in the Champions League, let alone qualify out of the group stage. This is a well-balanced team under Laurent Blanc, and Yoann Gourcuff might be highly sought after next summer.
I'm Not So Sure: Being unbeaten in 4 matches against Bayern Munich and Juventus might not be all that much to get excited about considering the form of those teams. There's an ugly loss at home to Valenciennes to be grouchy about too.
5. Real Madrid
2nd in La Liga, Top of UEFA Champions League Group C
Yeah, I'm Convinced: Had it not been for Victor Valdes and Carlos Puyol, Real Madrid might have been moved into #2 in the rankings. Ronaldo is back, so the movement should be upward now.
I'm Not So Sure: They could only manage one goal in the win at home over FC Zurich, as well as only one goal in the home win over Racing Santander. Ronaldo or not, those results should have been more impressive.
6. Sevilla
3rd in La Liga, Top of UEFA Champions League Group G
Yeah, I'm Convinced: As long as Luis Fabiano keeps up his scoring form, Sevilla will be in it till the end in the Spanish top flight. They still have the Real Madrid win on their record. However......
I'm Not So Sure: The Real Madrid win was almost two months ago and Ronaldo was hurt for that match. Now there's an ugly loss to Unirea Urziceni to go with that draw to struggling Stuttgart. Even though they have been successful in getting points, there are now issues in conceding goals (5 in their last 3 league matches).
7. Inter Milan
Top of Italian Serie A, 2nd in UEFA Champions League Group F
Yeah, I'm Convinced: They are flexing their muscle in Italy with 33 goals through their first 14 matches. That 1-0 defeat is characteristic of wins that help Inter establish the dominance they've enjoyed in Serie A. However.....
I'm Not So Sure: They blew a glorious opportunity to bury a Barcelona team and you could argue they looked uninspired. If they don't rally in those closing minutes in Kiev, the Nerazzurri would be sitting here eliminated from the Champions League. One of the more puzzling teams in Europe to figure out.
8. AC Milan
2nd in Italian Serie A, 2nd in UEFA Champions League Group C
Yeah, I'm Convinced: Enjoying the longest unbeaten run in all competitions out of anyone in the top 10 on this list (11 matches). In that span, they've scored 22 goals. Ronaldinho is just about back to his best.
I'm Not So Sure: Marseille and Cagliari exposed the defensive flaws in this team, and had it not been for a crossbar and an upright, it would be Marseille in 2nd and not Milan. Even with this terrific run, there's still some fragility.
9. Arsenal
4th in English Premier League, Winners of UEFA Champions League Group H
Yeah, I'm Convinced: They ran into a Chelsea buzzsaw on Sunday, had the Gunners been fully fit, the chances of beating the Blues would have been a little better.
I'm Not So Sure: That's the problem, there are a lot of injury issues at the moment (Van Persie's is most glaring). With the current available squad, would you take them over Lyon? Sunderland's been good, but that's three points Arsenal should not be dropping.
10. Lyon
2nd in French Ligue 1, 2nd in UEFA Champions League Group E
Yeah, I'm Convinced: The quality in the team is still there to make it interesting against teams like Arsenal, Milan, Inter, and Sevilla. Lopez, Gomis, and Pjanic are proving to be as deadly an attacking combination as there is. However.......
I'm Not So Sure: There isn't a quality win to feel all warm and fuzzy about, and while winning at Anfield was impressive, Liverpool is not Liverpool right now. They are still having issues shoring their defense as well, with 18 conceded through their first 14 league matches.
11. Tottenham Hotspur
3rd in English Premier League.
Earned a point at Aston Villa, and maybe deserved more. Oh, and 9 goals in a Premier League match, no matter who it's against, is impressive. There's still the would they be this good if they had Europe distracting them factor.
12. Bayer Leverkusen
Top of German Bundesliga
Still unbeaten in Germany's top flight, and with the best defensive record (9 conceded) and second best scoring record (30 for). Another team with no European distraction. The argument could be made that the German Bundesliga is the 5th best league in Europe this season. How long will Stefan Kiessling stick around?
13. Juventus
3rd in Serie A, 2nd in UEFA Champions League Group A
My pick to win Italian Serie A this season has been very puzzling to figure out lately. While they have been solid in both competitions, they are dropping some strange points. A win over Inter this weekend, and survive Bayern Munich next week, and they're back in the top 10.
14. Fiorentina
10th in Italian Serie A, Top of UEFA Champions League Group E.
So a tenth place team is 14th on my list. Why? Because they are only 3 points out of 4th and 4 out of 3rd. That's how tight it is in Italy right now. Needed a pk and defensive heroics to survive Lyon, and was a Gilardino-missed sitter away from perhaps winning at Inter. A balanced team that seems to be having one thing each game go right or wrong for them.
15. Rubin Kazan
Russian Premier League Winners, 3rd in UEFA Champions League Group F.
The downslide will continue unless they defeat Inter at the San Siro next week, which would put them through to the knockout stage of the Champions League. Not saying the Russian Premier League is too weak, it's just the teams that have passed them have posted more impressive results lately.
16. Werder Bremen
2nd in German Bundesliga, Top of UEFA Europa League Group L
They still haven't lost since August in all competitions and are coming off a 2-2 draw with Wolfsburg. Werder is the highest scoring side in Germany and they have their goals coming from multiple sources. As good as anyone that will be in the Europa League knockout stages.
17. Valencia
4th in La Liga, Top of UEFA Europa League Group B
Their unbeaten run has extended to 14 in all competitions, and are holding steady in 4th in Spain. If you would take them over Werder, Rubin Kazan, Fiorentina, or Juventus, I'd wouldn't argue with you much.
18. Deportivo
5th in La Liga
3 Consecutive wins in Spain and holding an impressive defense record, prove it time as they take on Barcelona at the weekend.
19. Olympiakos
Top of Greek League, 2nd in UEFA Champions League Group H
They have overtaken rival Panathinaikos on the domestic front and gained another point in the travels in the Champions League. Just a point at home against Arsenal next week will secure qualification to the group stage.
20. CSKA Moscow
5th in Russian Premier League, 3rd in UEFA Champions League Group B
Really here thanks to their Champions League run. Should have beaten Man United at Old Trafford and beat Wolfsburg. They have a great chance of securing a knockout stage place but must win at Besiktas.
21. Bayern Munich
4th in German Bundesliga, 3rd in UEFA Champions League Group A
Drew with leaders Leverkusen and have positioned themselves to advance to the knockout stage of the Champions League with a win at Juventus next week.
22. SC Braga
Top of Portuguese League
Time to give Braga some love. Currently top of their domestic table, holding off Benfica and Porto. Braga also beat each of those teams by the way. Would they be running this well if they had to play in Europe too?
23. Wolfsburg
8th in German Bundesliga, 2nd in UEFA Champions League Group B
They hold the aggregate advantage over CSKA but the recent defeat has to be unsettling. They must beat Manchester United (good thing they are at home) to assure qualification.
24. Aston Villa
6th in English Premier League
The home record is better, and they are still hanging around this list thanks to beating Chelsea, as well as a draw with Tottenham in recent games.
25. FC Porto
3rd in Portuguese League, Qualified as Runner Up in UEFA Champions League Group D
Jesualdo Ferreira's men should take no shame in losing to a Chelsea side that is not only hard to beat but hard to score on. Might be his best coaching effort yet considering the players lost in the summer.
OTHERS CONSIDERED
Benfica
Manchester City (drawing way too many games, had to drop them)
Liverpool (despite not qualifying for the knockouts they could return to the top 25)
Hamburg
Schalke
Real Mallorca
Marseille
Sampdoria
Cagliari
Fenerbahce
Galatasaray
Panathinaikos
Unirea Urziceni
So there are the rankings, really a lot of movement at bottom thanks to some teams hitting some disappointing results. Debate by commenting if you wish.
Thursday, November 19, 2009
The Occasional Rant 11.19.09: that handball, possible WC Draw pots.
I have so much fallout from the "Hand of Fraud" to rant about, as well as the World Cup Draw, why friendlies suck and other stuff in my latest installment of The Occasional Rant. Have a look:
Football Association of Ireland Chief Executive John Delaney is calling for the integrity of my blog to be questioned and the FAI is demanding a replay of my previous The Occasional Rant.
"Only don't tell me that you're innocent. Because it insults my intelligence and it makes me very angry. Now, who approached you first? Barzini or Tattalgia?"................... Let's make one thing perfectly clear about this whole situation with the Henry handball: FIFA got what they wanted at the cost of their integrity, but it didn't start at that controversial qualizer.
Prior to this incident was the fact that FIFA changed the rules of the UEFA zone playoff draw, once it became possible that World powers France, Portugal, and Germany were thought to be in the playoff mix (Germany avoided this and won their qualifying group). Originally it was supposed to be 8 teams, one pot, two teams drawn out means they play each other and then the process would be complete. Realizing the danger of any of these three teams failing to qualify for their big event, FIFA seeded the playoff teams based on their rankings. As a result; France, Portugal, and Russia avoid drawing each other. Ireland were angry with this ruling at the time as well because, you guessed it, they faced the prospect of drawing any of these teams due to their lower world ranking.
So should the events of yesterday shock you? While I was outraged and now my wife thinks Thierry Henry is the devil, in retrospect it shouldn't come as a shock. FIFA seemed to be going to unreasonable lengths to get the big boys into their tournament next summer. First by changing the rules toward the end of the qualifying campaign, and now by allowing an illegal goal to stand.
But let's make sure that something gets understood here, it would be an even bigger shock if FIFA lets the integrity of the game prevail and allows the match to be replayed. There is a precedent, believe it or not, when Uzbekistan and Bahrain were forced to replay a playoff in World Cup 2006 qualifying because of an official's decision to call a penalty that was incorrect. But the precedent only goes as far as enforcing the replay, as football365.com reports, because FIFA ruled that the official wrongly applied the Laws of the Game. Here's the blurb about it from their website:
Football Association of Ireland Chief Executive John Delaney is calling for the integrity of my blog to be questioned and the FAI is demanding a replay of my previous The Occasional Rant.
"Only don't tell me that you're innocent. Because it insults my intelligence and it makes me very angry. Now, who approached you first? Barzini or Tattalgia?"................... Let's make one thing perfectly clear about this whole situation with the Henry handball: FIFA got what they wanted at the cost of their integrity, but it didn't start at that controversial qualizer.
Prior to this incident was the fact that FIFA changed the rules of the UEFA zone playoff draw, once it became possible that World powers France, Portugal, and Germany were thought to be in the playoff mix (Germany avoided this and won their qualifying group). Originally it was supposed to be 8 teams, one pot, two teams drawn out means they play each other and then the process would be complete. Realizing the danger of any of these three teams failing to qualify for their big event, FIFA seeded the playoff teams based on their rankings. As a result; France, Portugal, and Russia avoid drawing each other. Ireland were angry with this ruling at the time as well because, you guessed it, they faced the prospect of drawing any of these teams due to their lower world ranking.
So should the events of yesterday shock you? While I was outraged and now my wife thinks Thierry Henry is the devil, in retrospect it shouldn't come as a shock. FIFA seemed to be going to unreasonable lengths to get the big boys into their tournament next summer. First by changing the rules toward the end of the qualifying campaign, and now by allowing an illegal goal to stand.
But let's make sure that something gets understood here, it would be an even bigger shock if FIFA lets the integrity of the game prevail and allows the match to be replayed. There is a precedent, believe it or not, when Uzbekistan and Bahrain were forced to replay a playoff in World Cup 2006 qualifying because of an official's decision to call a penalty that was incorrect. But the precedent only goes as far as enforcing the replay, as football365.com reports, because FIFA ruled that the official wrongly applied the Laws of the Game. Here's the blurb about it from their website:
However, in that instance, the referee was guilty of wrongly applying the rules rather than missing an offence. An indirect free-kick was awarded against Uzbekistan when one of their players encroached on the Bahrain penalty area as the Uzbeks successfully converted a penalty. The correct interpretation would have been to order the penalty to be retaken.
In the France v Ireland situation, it's a matter of the referee missing an offense, not of a failure to correctly apply the rules. On those grounds, it's hard to justify a replay. Plus, it's a little easier to order Uzbekistan and Bahrain to have a replay than to have the French agree to anything after they have seized victory.
Weird cruel twist of irony or something like that from all of this.....................I also have to get a half-chuckle out of all of this. Many of you have probably seen that commercial which campaigns sportsmanship. If you haven't here goes. It's a high school championship basketball game and a key play happens where a ball goes out of bounds off a pass deflected by the opposing player. The referee misses the deflection and rewards possession to the opposing team. During a timeout, the player tells the coach he touched it and needs to tell the officials as much. His teammates are mad at him but the coach commends him for his honesty. Wild guess, but Thierry Henry probably never saw this commercial. I can only remember watching this the night before the France-Ireland game and saying to my wife: "you tell me when this is ever going to happen in an important game." Love the message of the ad, but reality paints a different picture.
"Ladies and gentlemen, I have been to the Great Wall of China, I have seen the Pyramids of Egypt, I've even witnessed a grown man satisfy a camel. But never in all my years as a sportscaster have I witnessed something as improbable, as impossible, as what we've witnessed here today!"...................................... If the Hand of Fraud doesn't trigger FIFA to start getting more aggressive with putting in motion some form of replay technology, then nothing will. My proposal would be to give the 4th official a monitor to look at for each goal and some of the other activity (like overruling penalties when the foul might have been simulated). All the 4th official is doing now is wearing a FIFA or UEFA jacket, keeping track of stoppage time to add on, and serving coffee and bread to each of the teams' technical areas. Give him a monitor to review these goals. Strides have been made with allowing the officials to have headsets, now let's make the next natural progression.
No, Tom Henning Overbo is not sending Martin Hansson a gift basket to thank him for taking the attention away................................................. I have harped on this in the past, as someone who coaches this sport. There is a universal theme in competitive athletics that no one seems to talk about.
If you do not want the officials to become a factor that contributes to you being on the wrong end of a result, then do your part to make sure that doesn't happen. Be grouchy all you want about Martin Hansson (and the assistant referee who was not in position, either to make the call), but in so doing, be sure you call out John O'Shea, Robbie Keane, and Damien Duff all for missing great chances that would have prevented extra time from happening in the first place. I said the same thing about Chelsea and the chances they missed to put Barcelona away in the Champions League semifinals.
I am not apologzing for the ineptitude of the officials, I am just recognizing that more could be done by the team you support. And say the officials got it right, it's not like the Irish would go to South Africa, they would still need to beat France on penalties.
Kinda like a tree falling in a forest but no one was around to witness it, so did it really fall?....................................... No, I don't think Russia is finding any consolation in what happened in Paris. No matter who grabs all the headlines in the last day of qualifying, that was an all-timer of a meltdown from the Russians in their defeat at Slovenia.
There is no truth to the rumor that Guus Hiddink will be shopping for houses in Madrid or Liverpool in the coming weeks. At least not yet.
The Irish aren't the only ones that got jobbed................................. the World Cup draw will take place on December 4th and the World will be watching to see how the pool play will shake out for the first round. The 32 nations will be divided into 8 pots of 4 teams each. The first pot are the seeded teams based on current FIFA ranking and performance in the previous World Cups. Why I bring this up is because France now will be a seeded team. Had they been eliminated by Ireland, Holland would have likely been a seeded team. Portugal and USA might have also had a case.
So what to expect from the draw on December 4th? Knee-jerk reaction on my part thinks this will be how the pots are organized:
Pot 1 (Seeded teams): South Africa (host), Italy (holders), Brazil, Argentina, Germany, Spain, England, and France.
Holland, Portugal, and even the USA might have a beef with this but this is likely how it will turn out for the seeded teams. Put in the same pot so they avoid matching up with each other in the first round.
Pot 2: Ghana, Ivory Coast, Cameroon, Algeria, Nigeria, Chile, Paraguay, Uruguay
Geographical consideration will be taken into account when these teams are drawn. FIFA will keep the African teams in this pot from being in South Africa's group. Also, The South American teams in this pot will be kept from getting drawn into Brazil or Argentina's group.
Pot 3: Denmark, Holland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Greece, Switzerland, and Serbia.
Straight draw, no restrictions, and set up in the manner that no more than 2 European teams can be drawn in the same group.
Pot 4: USA, Mexico, Honduras, North Korea, South Korea, Australia, Japan, and New Zealand.
Same as pot 3, a straight draw with no restrictions.
The other aspect of the group phase will be the position in the group each team will start in. All seeded teams are automatically in position 1 in their group, so the other teams will be assigned position 2, 3, or 4. If they are in position 2, they play the seeded team in their group first.
So what does this mean for the good 'ol USA? Well, based on my scenario:
- Nightmare Draw: Brazil, Ivory Coast, Holland
- Dream Draw: South Africa, Paraguay, Slovenia (France may not be bad either with Algeria and Slovenia)
Of course so many things can happen and the ultimate hope for Sam's Army is the easiest path to the 2nd round possible. Nonetheless, it looks like the World Cup will have some intriguing matchups from the first round onwards. All the previous champions are in it this time around, and 23 of FIFA's top 32 are represented.
Worst FIFA-ranked World Cup team? North Korea, sitting at 91st. New Zealand and South Africa sit in the 80s.
Top ranked team not participating in the World Cup? That would be Croatia, ranked 8th in the World.
That's all for now. Thanks for reading my rant about one of the more controversial moments in football.
Monday, November 9, 2009
The Euro top 25 as of November 9th, 2009
Time to sort out where everyone falls in the top 25. That really big game in London on Sunday means there's a new #1, and what to do with the rest of the pack? Have a look:
1. Chelsea FC
Top of English Premier League, Top of UEFA Champions League Group D
Yeah, I'm Convinced: The diamond midfield is working, there's harmony between Drogba and Anelka, and no one is scoring on them at Stamford Bridge. Just one goal allowed at home in all competitions back in August against Hull.
I'm not so sure: They couldn't close out a struggling Atletico Madrid last week, and the debate will carry on all season whether or not John Terry's goal against Manchester United should have stood. This is still an aging team, and it's yet to be seen if they can sustain this form all season. History tells us a dip is coming at some point.
2. FC Barcelona
Top of La Liga, 3rd in UEFA Champions League Group F
Yeah, I'm Convinced: That's 4 goals on a Real Mallorca side that, by La Liga standards, was rather stingy in defense going in. Unbeaten through 10 in a deeper than you think Spanish top flight.
I'm not so sure: The Champions League struggles are glaring. They have yet to prove they can unlock a defense that's prepared to keep them out of goal. Believe it or not, their European season hinges on getting a win at home against Inter on November 24th.
3. Manchester United FC
3rd in English Premier League, top of UEFA Champions League Group B
Yeah, I'm Convinced: The win over Arsenal is looking better and better, how many teams do you know can rally from 3-1 down to rescue a point? That was a 95-minute battle with Chelsea, and should have come out with a draw. If Chelsea is #1, then Man United could be #1A.
I'm not so sure: A team known for its attacking prowess could only manage 2 shots on goal over 95 minutes at Chelsea. The Liverpool loss looks terrible right now, and this is a team that better get healthy quick.
4. Arsenal FC
2nd in English Premier League, top of UEFA Champions League Group H
Yeah, I'm Convinced: What? Ahead of Manyoo in the standings but behind them in the rankings? The Gunners are crushing and killing everything in their way right now. The Tottenham win looks really good.
I'm Not So Sure: Winning 4-1 at Wolves does not solve the away issues. A team this good should win on their travels at West Ham and AZ Alkmaar. The early struggles at Standard Liege from Matchday #1 in the Champions League are still not forgotten.
5. Sevilla FC
3rd in La Liga, top of UEFA Champions League Group G
Yeah, I'm Convinced: They still have the win over Real Madrid to be proud of, and just beat a Villarreal team that was looking like it was coming out of its funk. They have the attacking talent to matchup with Manchester United and Arsenal.
I'm Not So Sure: If you're this good, you shouldn't be struggling to a draw at home against a Stuttgart team that has had all sorts of issues this season.
6. Real Madrid
2nd in La Liga, 2nd in UEFA Champions League Group C
Yeah, I'm Convinced: All things considered, they coped rather nicely without CR9. No shame dropping that game at Sevilla, or Milan on their current form. Oh, and Mr. Ronaldo is back from injury.
I'm Not So Sure: There are still issues on the backline. El Clasico is coming up at the end of the month, and Mr. Pellegrini would be wise to get things sorted out.
7. Bordeaux
Top of French Ligue 1, Top of UEFA Champions League Group A
Yeah, I'm Convinced: They are top of their league and Champions League group. In so doing, they have beaten Monaco, drawn Juventus, and twice beat Bayern Munich. However.....
I'm Not So Sure: Beating Bayern Munich are at present the signature wins, and it's not much to get excited about right now. There's also an ugly 2-0 defeat to bottom-half of the table Lille to deal with too. Juventus comes calling November 25th, though. Win that and they may be top 5.
8. Lyon
2nd in French Ligue 1, Top of UEFA Champions League Group E
Yeah, I'm Convinced: Just when it looked like Liverpool was crawling back into contention for a Champions League knockout place, Lisandro Lopez might have taken it away from them. You tell me if you want your team to face this side right now.
I'm Not So Sure: They needed that Lopez effort to draw a below-strength Liverpool side, and on three occasions dropped two points in that (albeit thrilling) 5-5 draw with Marseille at the weekend. The league form is worrying, just 4 points out of their last 12 possible.
9. Inter
Top of Italian Serie A, Top of UEFA Champions League Group F
Yeah, I'm Convinced: The 4-0 derby win over Milan suddenly looks fantastic, and they're starting to distance themselves from the chasing pack in Italy.
I'm Not So Sure: It took a furious rally in the last 5+ minutes to beat Dynamo Kiev, top their Champions League group, and avoid their trip to Barcelona being an elimination match. Drawing a struggling Roma side at the weekend shows how wildly inconsistent they are.
10. Rubin Kazan
Top of Russian Premier League, 2nd in UEFA Champions League Group F
Yeah, I'm Convinced: 5 points from 3 matches against Inter and Barcelona. 5 points from 3 matches against Inter and Barcelona. 5 points from 3 matches against Inter and Barcelona.
I'm Not So Sure: While the Russian Premier League is suddenly starting to produce some terrific football (and rising stars), it's not the same level as the Premier League, La Liga, Serie A, or Bundesliga. Would you take this team over Milan, Juventus, or Leverkusen at the moment?
11. Juventus
2nd in Serie A, 2nd in UEFA Champions League Group A
That oopsie against Napoli are keeping them out of the top 10. Otherwise they are yet to lose in the Champions League this season and turning on the style in Italy (12 goals in their last 3 matches). Showdown at Bordeaux next in the Champions League and a prove it game coming up against Inter in a few weeks.
12. AC Milan
3rd in Serie A, Top of UEFA Champions League Group C
Do you want to play them now? Since that embarrassing loss to FC Zurich, they've been unbeaten in their last eight in all competitions (5 wins, 3 draws). The four points from Real Madrid look great. Pato is emerging into the next big thing, and Thiago Silva should be in the discussion of best defenders in the world.
13. Tottenham Hotspur
4th in English Premier League
That's a decent looking win against Sunderland. Losses this season include Arsenal, Manchester United, and Chelsea (no shame in those), and with those three out of the way for now, a great chance to rack up some points.
14. Bayer Leverkusen
Top of German Bundesliga
Unbeaten in what's looking like a wide open German top flight, and like I said in the past, they are keeping things tight at the back. The sharing of points with contenders like Werder Bremen, Hamburg, and Schalke might look good now, but could hurt them once their league form starts to escape them.
1. Chelsea FC
Top of English Premier League, Top of UEFA Champions League Group D
Yeah, I'm Convinced: The diamond midfield is working, there's harmony between Drogba and Anelka, and no one is scoring on them at Stamford Bridge. Just one goal allowed at home in all competitions back in August against Hull.
I'm not so sure: They couldn't close out a struggling Atletico Madrid last week, and the debate will carry on all season whether or not John Terry's goal against Manchester United should have stood. This is still an aging team, and it's yet to be seen if they can sustain this form all season. History tells us a dip is coming at some point.
2. FC Barcelona
Top of La Liga, 3rd in UEFA Champions League Group F
Yeah, I'm Convinced: That's 4 goals on a Real Mallorca side that, by La Liga standards, was rather stingy in defense going in. Unbeaten through 10 in a deeper than you think Spanish top flight.
I'm not so sure: The Champions League struggles are glaring. They have yet to prove they can unlock a defense that's prepared to keep them out of goal. Believe it or not, their European season hinges on getting a win at home against Inter on November 24th.
3. Manchester United FC
3rd in English Premier League, top of UEFA Champions League Group B
Yeah, I'm Convinced: The win over Arsenal is looking better and better, how many teams do you know can rally from 3-1 down to rescue a point? That was a 95-minute battle with Chelsea, and should have come out with a draw. If Chelsea is #1, then Man United could be #1A.
I'm not so sure: A team known for its attacking prowess could only manage 2 shots on goal over 95 minutes at Chelsea. The Liverpool loss looks terrible right now, and this is a team that better get healthy quick.
4. Arsenal FC
2nd in English Premier League, top of UEFA Champions League Group H
Yeah, I'm Convinced: What? Ahead of Manyoo in the standings but behind them in the rankings? The Gunners are crushing and killing everything in their way right now. The Tottenham win looks really good.
I'm Not So Sure: Winning 4-1 at Wolves does not solve the away issues. A team this good should win on their travels at West Ham and AZ Alkmaar. The early struggles at Standard Liege from Matchday #1 in the Champions League are still not forgotten.
5. Sevilla FC
3rd in La Liga, top of UEFA Champions League Group G
Yeah, I'm Convinced: They still have the win over Real Madrid to be proud of, and just beat a Villarreal team that was looking like it was coming out of its funk. They have the attacking talent to matchup with Manchester United and Arsenal.
I'm Not So Sure: If you're this good, you shouldn't be struggling to a draw at home against a Stuttgart team that has had all sorts of issues this season.
6. Real Madrid
2nd in La Liga, 2nd in UEFA Champions League Group C
Yeah, I'm Convinced: All things considered, they coped rather nicely without CR9. No shame dropping that game at Sevilla, or Milan on their current form. Oh, and Mr. Ronaldo is back from injury.
I'm Not So Sure: There are still issues on the backline. El Clasico is coming up at the end of the month, and Mr. Pellegrini would be wise to get things sorted out.
7. Bordeaux
Top of French Ligue 1, Top of UEFA Champions League Group A
Yeah, I'm Convinced: They are top of their league and Champions League group. In so doing, they have beaten Monaco, drawn Juventus, and twice beat Bayern Munich. However.....
I'm Not So Sure: Beating Bayern Munich are at present the signature wins, and it's not much to get excited about right now. There's also an ugly 2-0 defeat to bottom-half of the table Lille to deal with too. Juventus comes calling November 25th, though. Win that and they may be top 5.
8. Lyon
2nd in French Ligue 1, Top of UEFA Champions League Group E
Yeah, I'm Convinced: Just when it looked like Liverpool was crawling back into contention for a Champions League knockout place, Lisandro Lopez might have taken it away from them. You tell me if you want your team to face this side right now.
I'm Not So Sure: They needed that Lopez effort to draw a below-strength Liverpool side, and on three occasions dropped two points in that (albeit thrilling) 5-5 draw with Marseille at the weekend. The league form is worrying, just 4 points out of their last 12 possible.
9. Inter
Top of Italian Serie A, Top of UEFA Champions League Group F
Yeah, I'm Convinced: The 4-0 derby win over Milan suddenly looks fantastic, and they're starting to distance themselves from the chasing pack in Italy.
I'm Not So Sure: It took a furious rally in the last 5+ minutes to beat Dynamo Kiev, top their Champions League group, and avoid their trip to Barcelona being an elimination match. Drawing a struggling Roma side at the weekend shows how wildly inconsistent they are.
10. Rubin Kazan
Top of Russian Premier League, 2nd in UEFA Champions League Group F
Yeah, I'm Convinced: 5 points from 3 matches against Inter and Barcelona. 5 points from 3 matches against Inter and Barcelona. 5 points from 3 matches against Inter and Barcelona.
I'm Not So Sure: While the Russian Premier League is suddenly starting to produce some terrific football (and rising stars), it's not the same level as the Premier League, La Liga, Serie A, or Bundesliga. Would you take this team over Milan, Juventus, or Leverkusen at the moment?
11. Juventus
2nd in Serie A, 2nd in UEFA Champions League Group A
That oopsie against Napoli are keeping them out of the top 10. Otherwise they are yet to lose in the Champions League this season and turning on the style in Italy (12 goals in their last 3 matches). Showdown at Bordeaux next in the Champions League and a prove it game coming up against Inter in a few weeks.
12. AC Milan
3rd in Serie A, Top of UEFA Champions League Group C
Do you want to play them now? Since that embarrassing loss to FC Zurich, they've been unbeaten in their last eight in all competitions (5 wins, 3 draws). The four points from Real Madrid look great. Pato is emerging into the next big thing, and Thiago Silva should be in the discussion of best defenders in the world.
13. Tottenham Hotspur
4th in English Premier League
That's a decent looking win against Sunderland. Losses this season include Arsenal, Manchester United, and Chelsea (no shame in those), and with those three out of the way for now, a great chance to rack up some points.
14. Bayer Leverkusen
Top of German Bundesliga
Unbeaten in what's looking like a wide open German top flight, and like I said in the past, they are keeping things tight at the back. The sharing of points with contenders like Werder Bremen, Hamburg, and Schalke might look good now, but could hurt them once their league form starts to escape them.
15. Fiorentina
4th in Serie A, 2nd in UEFA Champions League Group E
Scored for fun over two matches against Debrecen, and grinded out a big 1-0 at Udinese over the weekend. They are a win or a draw away from ending Liverpool's Champions League campaign before the New Year. Adrian Mutu and Alberto Gilardino are forming quite a strike force, and wunderkind Stevan Jovetic has been out through this recent run. They've really dropped because the the likes of Juventus, Milan, and Bordeaux have picked up impressive wins or been on impressive runs.
16. Valencia
4th in La Liga, 2nd in UEFA Europa League Group B
10 match unbeaten run in all competitions, and only 1 loss so far all season. David Villa is being David Villa, scoring 10 goals in all competitions (8 in La Liga), and the defense is keeping it just tight enough to get results.
17. Aston Villa
5th in English Premier League
They still have that win over Chelsea and just put 5 past a Bolton team that was playing reasonably well recently (save for getting crushed by Chelsea). A disappointing loss at West Ham means they stay put at 17.
18. Werder Bremen
2nd in German Bundesliga, top of UEFA Europa League Group L
Plenty of attacking options in this team, and despite drawing their last two league matches, they've been on a tear. Quietly have put together 19 straight unbeaten in all competitions.
19. Hamburg
3rd in German Bundesliga, 2nd in UEFA Europa League Group C
Suddenly have forgotten how to win in Germany, as they have one loss and three draws in their last four. What's worse, they would be top had they not split the honors with Leverkusen and Schalke.
20. Deportivo
5th in La Liga
Valladolid finally hit them up for 4 goals a couple weeks back, but since then have gotten on track, big win at the weekend over Getafe as they jockey for position for a Champions League place.
21. Manchester City
6th in English Premier League
Suddenly getting exposed, playing uninspired, or both. 5 straight draws, Aston Villa is understandable. But Wigan, Fulham, Birmingham, and Burnley? Arsenal has yet to play Burnley but they beat the other three by a combined 8-1. The difference betweend contending and pretending. Still, on their day, could be as good as anyone. Yes, yes, they beat Arsenal but we're going on current form here.
22. Schalke 04
4th in German Bundesliga
Draws with fellow contenders Bayer Leverkusen, Hamburg, and Bayern Munich suggest the Felix Factor is taking effect. Let the Gelsenkirchen side hang around under Magath's watch, and you may see them at the top of the Bundesliga.
23. Wolfsburg
5th in German Bundesliga, 2nd in UEFA Champions League Group B
Huge win at Hoffenheim on Saturday, and in position to reach the last 16 of the Champions League. Winning 3-0 in Turkey at Besiktas suggests they could be a force going forward. Misimovic is in great form.
24. FC Porto
3rd in Portuguese League, 2nd in UEFA Champions League Group D
Really here because they earned their place in the knockout stages of the Champions League, but sitting 3rd behind Benifca and Braga means maybe they should make this list too.
25. Olympiakos
2nd in Greek league, 2nd in UEFA Champions League Group H
Slipped a little by losing to Standard Liege in the Champions League and drawing Iraklis at the weekend, need a couple strikers to get healthy.
OTHERS CONSIDERED
Panathinaikos
Fenerbahce
Dynamo Kiev
SL Benifca
SC Braga
Bayern Munich
Sampdoria
Napoli
So do you agree or disagree? Hit me up with your thoughts.
Monday, November 2, 2009
What the weekend told us.
A very intriguing weekend leading into a midweek full of matchups from the Champions League and Europa League leads us to some things to the following observations.
England: Liverpool's Premier League title challenge is officially over.
Five losses from their first 11 matches and only 18 points to show for this season, you can look at those statistics and realize that it's done and dusted for Rafa Benitez' men (not to mention it could be done and dusted for Benitez, he will be evaluated over the next three games). Taking Fernando Torres and Yossi Benayoun out of the Fulham match on Saturday when he did, suggests he could care less about the Premier League and he is desparate to salvage their currently failing European campaign. With the laundry list of injured players Benitez has, he needs two of his best attacking players fit for the trip to Lyon.
Back to the domestic challenge. There will be at least one more loss before the season ends with a trip to Old Trafford, two matches with Arsenal, and two with Manchester City still on the slate. You have to go back to 2001 when Manchester United lifted the title on six defeats. A couple teams have since done it on 5, but with Chelsea and Manchester United now beating everyone they should beat, it's not looking good.
Italy: That's the Napoli I expected to see.
So really? All it took was a managerial change? Walter Mazzarri took over from Roberto Donadoni and in his first four Serie A matches: 3 wins and one draw. And it's an impressive list: after beating Bologna, they beat Fiorentina, drew Milan, and beat Juventus (all three of these tams are playing in the Champions League by the way). The four points from the last two games were earned in come from behind mode. All four of these matches have a style to them, with 8 goals scored. The scintallating run of form from the Neapolitans have vaulted them to 6th, and are potentially as good as anyone on their day.
This is a loaded team that will continue to give the big boys of Serie A problems. They have a playmaker in Marek Hamsik (who has drawn the attention of Manchester United and Chelsea), Argentinian Ezequiel Lavezzi (who we'd all know a little better if a certain Mr. Messi wasn't around), and added Fabio Quagliarella from Udinese. The have the future of the Italian midfield with Luca Cigarini (would have loved to see him in Milan) as well.
Germany: Bundesliga will go down to the wire, again.
They're doing that thing again where a lot of goals are being scored (average of 2.7 goals per game) and they're also doing that thing where 5 points separates 8th from 1st. And they are not seeming to beat up on each other, they are sharing points. Mainz is sitting 8th and they played Wolfsburg (7th) to a thrilling 3-3 draw. The big match of the weekend, between Schalke and Bayer Leverkusen ended 2-2. Leverkusen currently top the league, so when Werder Bremen and Hamburg had their chance to overtake them, they didn't. Werder Bremen played a 2-2 draw with relegation-threatened Nuremburg. Hamburg hosted, and graciously contributed to, Borussia Monchengladbach's survival cause in a 3-2 loss. Bayern couldn't manage a goal at struggling Stuttgart, leaving Hoffenheim the only winner in the top 8, beating Freiburg 1-0.
Spain: Don't call this a 2-horse race just yet.
I'm not only going by the evidence of the last minute oopsie by Barcelona against Osasuna on Saturday, but the fact that Sevilla and Valencia are doing all they can to make sure it's not about the El Clasico sides. Sevilla sit 3rd on 19 points and Valencia are 4th on 18, 4 and 5 points respectively. Each of these teams ooze class, not to the effect that Barcelona and Real Madrid do, but they have some quality players.
At Sevilla, they have two talented strikers in Luis Fabiano and Frederic Kanoute. They are supported by a host of talented midfielders like Jesus Navas, Adriano, and Renato. They can also call on experienced players like Aldo Duscher and Didier Zokora. Miguel Jiminez has forged a talented side that will be in it to the end.
At Valencia, many rumors are swirling around whether they will stick together, and looking at the talent on the team it's no wonder. It starts with David Villa, one of the best strikers in the world and could play anywhere he wants. He's stayed loyal to Los Che but that loyalty will again be tested. Another striker you'll learn more about is 6'8" Serbian Nikola Zigic (a Sunderland target in the summer). You also know about David Silva (a Man Utd and Liverpool target), but get to know Juan Manuel Mata, another Spanish winger that will make a name for himself as the season goes on. Carlos Marchena, Ruben Baraja, and David Albelda provide them with the experience. And they have depth in midfield with players like Ever Banega, Manuel Fernandes, Joaquin, and Vicente Rodriguez. Plenty of talent on display at the Mestalla. The team is loaded and if they can keep the defense tight, they'll be able to hang with anyone in Spain.
That's all I got, more later this week. Rankings come out next week after the Chelsea-Manyoo game.
England: Liverpool's Premier League title challenge is officially over.
Five losses from their first 11 matches and only 18 points to show for this season, you can look at those statistics and realize that it's done and dusted for Rafa Benitez' men (not to mention it could be done and dusted for Benitez, he will be evaluated over the next three games). Taking Fernando Torres and Yossi Benayoun out of the Fulham match on Saturday when he did, suggests he could care less about the Premier League and he is desparate to salvage their currently failing European campaign. With the laundry list of injured players Benitez has, he needs two of his best attacking players fit for the trip to Lyon.
Back to the domestic challenge. There will be at least one more loss before the season ends with a trip to Old Trafford, two matches with Arsenal, and two with Manchester City still on the slate. You have to go back to 2001 when Manchester United lifted the title on six defeats. A couple teams have since done it on 5, but with Chelsea and Manchester United now beating everyone they should beat, it's not looking good.
Italy: That's the Napoli I expected to see.
So really? All it took was a managerial change? Walter Mazzarri took over from Roberto Donadoni and in his first four Serie A matches: 3 wins and one draw. And it's an impressive list: after beating Bologna, they beat Fiorentina, drew Milan, and beat Juventus (all three of these tams are playing in the Champions League by the way). The four points from the last two games were earned in come from behind mode. All four of these matches have a style to them, with 8 goals scored. The scintallating run of form from the Neapolitans have vaulted them to 6th, and are potentially as good as anyone on their day.
This is a loaded team that will continue to give the big boys of Serie A problems. They have a playmaker in Marek Hamsik (who has drawn the attention of Manchester United and Chelsea), Argentinian Ezequiel Lavezzi (who we'd all know a little better if a certain Mr. Messi wasn't around), and added Fabio Quagliarella from Udinese. The have the future of the Italian midfield with Luca Cigarini (would have loved to see him in Milan) as well.
Germany: Bundesliga will go down to the wire, again.
They're doing that thing again where a lot of goals are being scored (average of 2.7 goals per game) and they're also doing that thing where 5 points separates 8th from 1st. And they are not seeming to beat up on each other, they are sharing points. Mainz is sitting 8th and they played Wolfsburg (7th) to a thrilling 3-3 draw. The big match of the weekend, between Schalke and Bayer Leverkusen ended 2-2. Leverkusen currently top the league, so when Werder Bremen and Hamburg had their chance to overtake them, they didn't. Werder Bremen played a 2-2 draw with relegation-threatened Nuremburg. Hamburg hosted, and graciously contributed to, Borussia Monchengladbach's survival cause in a 3-2 loss. Bayern couldn't manage a goal at struggling Stuttgart, leaving Hoffenheim the only winner in the top 8, beating Freiburg 1-0.
Spain: Don't call this a 2-horse race just yet.
I'm not only going by the evidence of the last minute oopsie by Barcelona against Osasuna on Saturday, but the fact that Sevilla and Valencia are doing all they can to make sure it's not about the El Clasico sides. Sevilla sit 3rd on 19 points and Valencia are 4th on 18, 4 and 5 points respectively. Each of these teams ooze class, not to the effect that Barcelona and Real Madrid do, but they have some quality players.
At Sevilla, they have two talented strikers in Luis Fabiano and Frederic Kanoute. They are supported by a host of talented midfielders like Jesus Navas, Adriano, and Renato. They can also call on experienced players like Aldo Duscher and Didier Zokora. Miguel Jiminez has forged a talented side that will be in it to the end.
At Valencia, many rumors are swirling around whether they will stick together, and looking at the talent on the team it's no wonder. It starts with David Villa, one of the best strikers in the world and could play anywhere he wants. He's stayed loyal to Los Che but that loyalty will again be tested. Another striker you'll learn more about is 6'8" Serbian Nikola Zigic (a Sunderland target in the summer). You also know about David Silva (a Man Utd and Liverpool target), but get to know Juan Manuel Mata, another Spanish winger that will make a name for himself as the season goes on. Carlos Marchena, Ruben Baraja, and David Albelda provide them with the experience. And they have depth in midfield with players like Ever Banega, Manuel Fernandes, Joaquin, and Vicente Rodriguez. Plenty of talent on display at the Mestalla. The team is loaded and if they can keep the defense tight, they'll be able to hang with anyone in Spain.
That's all I got, more later this week. Rankings come out next week after the Chelsea-Manyoo game.
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