Rather than being forced to regurgitate prophesies 365 days from now about what will happen in the year of 2011 for women's soccer, I thought it would be in my best interest to simply “list” my stream of consciousness. To make it more intriguing, I invite you to play along. What will you be anticipating for women’s soccer this year?
My short list in no particular order:
--Will anyone select Birgit Prinz or Fatmire Bajramaj over Marta for the Balloon D’ Or?
--Will teams continue to cry if they lose to Canada?
--How will FIFA and the WWC handle the accusation of male players on Equatorial Guinea and will main stream media focus on that topic rather than the quality of soccer?
--Will Alex Morgan live up to all the hype and expectations?
--Can Brazil manage to be disciplined enough to win the World Cup?
--Will Canada shock the world?
--Will I be able to watch the Women’s World Cup sober if I invent a drinking game which includes taking a drink whenever someone mentions Chastain ripping off her shirt?
--Large group of brilliant international goal scorers in World Cup--but who will score the most?
--Will the WPS survive to last into 2012?
--Will my updates about the Frauen Bundesliga (Germany) mention anything other than snow?
--Who will win the Frauen Bundesliga, Turbine Potsdam, Frankfurt, or 2001 Duisburg?
--Will we still criticize the USA even if they continue not to concede any goals?
--Will the German youth teams continue to dominate everything?
--Will we ever see Pia Sundhage in full anger rage, swearing in Swedish at her players?
--------feel free to leave your own!
Happy New Year! What a great year it will be for Women's Soccer!
Kroc of Sports: Refusing to dumb down Women's Soccer.
Friday, December 31, 2010
Tuesday, December 21, 2010
Frauen Bundesliga Week 17: One match, one bus on fire.
Wolfsburg knew prior to the match that they had to be ready for a motivated SG Essen Schonebeck squad. Nearing the bottom of the table and in danger of relegation, Essen Schonebeck desperately needed points. However, no one expected Essen Schonebeck to arrive fired up. Literally that is. Despite the cold temperatures and a snowy atmosphere that had postponed all of the other Frauen Bundesliga matches, having their bus catch on fire was probably not the way Essen Schoenbeck wanted to stay warm. Thankfully, nearby police were able to attend to the fire without anyone being hurt.
Due to a heated artificial pitch and superior snow clearing techniques, the Wolfsburg squad was able to avenge their prior loss to Essen Schonebeck. Coach Ralf Kellermann returned to the sideline for Wolfsburg after being out while recovering from back surgery. With injuries and flu disrupting his normal starting lineup, Kellermann called on young U-20 World Cup champion, Selina Wagner, to play behind star striker Mueller.
After suffering a defeat against Potsdam Turbine on artificial turf in snowy conditions, Kellermann had his team practicing on artificial turf throughout the week in hopes to better prepare his team. The preparation seemed adequate as Wolfsburg managed early dangerous attacks. Making her Bundesliga debut, Essen goal keeper, Jil Strüngmann was strong in the first half. Saves by the young goal keeper had Essen Schonebeck playing confidently.
After a 15 minute delay at half time to further clear the pitch from accumulated snow, Wolfsburg began to wear out the young Essen team. Shortly after Wolfsburg subbed in fresh players in the 59th minute, Essen’s Vanessa Martini took down Swiss international Martina Moser in the penalty box. Navina Omilade stepped up to take the penalty, but fired the ball at the crossbar.
Just minutes later, German National Team star, Martina Mueller scored her 19th goal of the season by catching Jil Strüngmann out of position. Mueller’s free kick gave Wolfsburg the only goal it needed for the day.
Although Essen showed promise, their loss puts them just one point clear of the regulation zone in 9th place. Wolfsburg remains in 4th as the winter break is now in effect. Due to numerous December postponed matches, the current Frauen Bundesliga table has Turbine Potsdam currently one point ahead of Frankfurt. Both third place FCR 2001 Duisburg and second place Frankfurt have only managed to play 15 games while Turbine Potsdam has played 16. Wolfsburg, in fourth place, has played all 17 of their scheduled matches.
Interesting notes
**Vanessa Martini has made appearances for the German U-17 and U-19 teams.
**Despite being subbed in the 59th minute, Selina Wagner gained valuable experience playing behind Martina Mueller
**Essen Schonebeck was able to find an alternative bus ride home
Team GP W T L Goals PTS
1. Turbine Potsdam 16 13 1 2 41:12 40
2. Frankfurt 15 13 0 2 69:13 39
3. FCR 2001 Duisburg 15 11 2 2 45:15 35
4. Wolfsburg 17 9 2 6 45:36 29
5. Hamburger SV 16 8 2 6 30:30 26
6. SC 07 Bad Neuenahr 15 8 0 7 39:31 24
7. FC Bayern Munich 15 6 2 7 22:22 20
8. Bayer 04 Leverkusen 15 4 2 9 22:43 14
9. SG Essen-Schonebeck 15 3 4 8 18:34 13
10.1 FC Saarbrucken 15 4 1 10 15:38 13
11. FF USV Jena 15 3 3 9 13:38 12
12. Herford SV 15 0 1 14 11:58 1
Due to a heated artificial pitch and superior snow clearing techniques, the Wolfsburg squad was able to avenge their prior loss to Essen Schonebeck. Coach Ralf Kellermann returned to the sideline for Wolfsburg after being out while recovering from back surgery. With injuries and flu disrupting his normal starting lineup, Kellermann called on young U-20 World Cup champion, Selina Wagner, to play behind star striker Mueller.
After suffering a defeat against Potsdam Turbine on artificial turf in snowy conditions, Kellermann had his team practicing on artificial turf throughout the week in hopes to better prepare his team. The preparation seemed adequate as Wolfsburg managed early dangerous attacks. Making her Bundesliga debut, Essen goal keeper, Jil Strüngmann was strong in the first half. Saves by the young goal keeper had Essen Schonebeck playing confidently.
After a 15 minute delay at half time to further clear the pitch from accumulated snow, Wolfsburg began to wear out the young Essen team. Shortly after Wolfsburg subbed in fresh players in the 59th minute, Essen’s Vanessa Martini took down Swiss international Martina Moser in the penalty box. Navina Omilade stepped up to take the penalty, but fired the ball at the crossbar.
Just minutes later, German National Team star, Martina Mueller scored her 19th goal of the season by catching Jil Strüngmann out of position. Mueller’s free kick gave Wolfsburg the only goal it needed for the day.
Although Essen showed promise, their loss puts them just one point clear of the regulation zone in 9th place. Wolfsburg remains in 4th as the winter break is now in effect. Due to numerous December postponed matches, the current Frauen Bundesliga table has Turbine Potsdam currently one point ahead of Frankfurt. Both third place FCR 2001 Duisburg and second place Frankfurt have only managed to play 15 games while Turbine Potsdam has played 16. Wolfsburg, in fourth place, has played all 17 of their scheduled matches.
Interesting notes
**Vanessa Martini has made appearances for the German U-17 and U-19 teams.
**Despite being subbed in the 59th minute, Selina Wagner gained valuable experience playing behind Martina Mueller
**Essen Schonebeck was able to find an alternative bus ride home
Team GP W T L Goals PTS
1. Turbine Potsdam 16 13 1 2 41:12 40
2. Frankfurt 15 13 0 2 69:13 39
3. FCR 2001 Duisburg 15 11 2 2 45:15 35
4. Wolfsburg 17 9 2 6 45:36 29
5. Hamburger SV 16 8 2 6 30:30 26
6. SC 07 Bad Neuenahr 15 8 0 7 39:31 24
7. FC Bayern Munich 15 6 2 7 22:22 20
8. Bayer 04 Leverkusen 15 4 2 9 22:43 14
9. SG Essen-Schonebeck 15 3 4 8 18:34 13
10.1 FC Saarbrucken 15 4 1 10 15:38 13
11. FF USV Jena 15 3 3 9 13:38 12
12. Herford SV 15 0 1 14 11:58 1
Thursday, December 16, 2010
U-17 Germany Women win in Israel; Snow Shovelers needed in Frauen Fussball and other random Women's Soccer news of the week
Anyone have a shovel?
Germany is now seeking snow removal experts. Faced with yet another weekend of cancellations in the Frauen Bundesliga, some clubs are scrambling in finding/providing usable playing fields. FCR 2001 Duisburg is calling for fans to assist them in shoveling. All those who help receive a free ticket to the match as well as a complimentary hot drink.
As for National Team news, Germany's youth continue to impress. Defeating the U-19 Israel squad twice this week (4-1; 5-0), the U-17 squad continues to have a successful year. After scoring twice on Tuesday, Fabienne Dongus scored three more just two days later. Germany's U-17 roster includes many Bundesliga 2 players as well as those who play in the top Bundesliga league. At 16 years of age, Elisabeth Scherzberg, not only represents the strong U-17 team, but top flight Saarbrucken as well. Scherzberg has found minutes off the bench in nearly every match played this year in the Bundesliga.
Other International Women’s Soccer News:
Torneio Internacional Cidade de Sao Paolo
Canada remains unbeaten in their last 9 matches after they tied 3rd ranked Brazil on Wednesday. Having already advanced to Sunday's final, Canadian coach Carolina Morace was able to work with a younger line-up while altering her formation against Brazil. Due to the "unimportance" of the match, fans will certainly be analyzing and breaking down Sunday's final rematch.
Mexico will look to avenge a 3-1 defeat against the Netherlands in the third place match. Mexico must be disappointied with their performance in this tournament. After qualifying for the Women's World Cup, Mexico was hoping for a better performance.
RESULTS FROM SAO PAOLO:
Canada 5-Netherlands 0
Brazil 3 - Mexico 0
Brazil 3 - Netherlands 2
Mexico 0 - Canada 1
Mexico 1 - Netherlands 3
Brazil 0 - Canada 0
For tournament information, highlights, and scores http://www.sportpromotion.com.br/ticsp2011/
USA
On a final note for the week, sad to see the Chicago Red Stars absent from the WPS next season. With only six teams competing...how will the WPS go forward?
Will highlight news and scores from Germany on Monday--that is--if they find their way out of the snow!
Germany is now seeking snow removal experts. Faced with yet another weekend of cancellations in the Frauen Bundesliga, some clubs are scrambling in finding/providing usable playing fields. FCR 2001 Duisburg is calling for fans to assist them in shoveling. All those who help receive a free ticket to the match as well as a complimentary hot drink.
As for National Team news, Germany's youth continue to impress. Defeating the U-19 Israel squad twice this week (4-1; 5-0), the U-17 squad continues to have a successful year. After scoring twice on Tuesday, Fabienne Dongus scored three more just two days later. Germany's U-17 roster includes many Bundesliga 2 players as well as those who play in the top Bundesliga league. At 16 years of age, Elisabeth Scherzberg, not only represents the strong U-17 team, but top flight Saarbrucken as well. Scherzberg has found minutes off the bench in nearly every match played this year in the Bundesliga.
Other International Women’s Soccer News:
Torneio Internacional Cidade de Sao Paolo
Canada remains unbeaten in their last 9 matches after they tied 3rd ranked Brazil on Wednesday. Having already advanced to Sunday's final, Canadian coach Carolina Morace was able to work with a younger line-up while altering her formation against Brazil. Due to the "unimportance" of the match, fans will certainly be analyzing and breaking down Sunday's final rematch.
Mexico will look to avenge a 3-1 defeat against the Netherlands in the third place match. Mexico must be disappointied with their performance in this tournament. After qualifying for the Women's World Cup, Mexico was hoping for a better performance.
RESULTS FROM SAO PAOLO:
Canada 5-Netherlands 0
Brazil 3 - Mexico 0
Brazil 3 - Netherlands 2
Mexico 0 - Canada 1
Mexico 1 - Netherlands 3
Brazil 0 - Canada 0
For tournament information, highlights, and scores http://www.sportpromotion.com.br/ticsp2011/
USA
On a final note for the week, sad to see the Chicago Red Stars absent from the WPS next season. With only six teams competing...how will the WPS go forward?
Will highlight news and scores from Germany on Monday--that is--if they find their way out of the snow!
Wednesday, December 8, 2010
Future Women's Soccer Star; Germany's Kim Kulig
The result of FIFA’s U-20 Women’s World Cup during the summer of 2010 announced to the world that the Germans were succeeding in youth development. After finishing third in the 2008 u-20 World Cup (USA winners), the Germans found success at home winning the 2010 U-20 World Cup. Whether a foreshadowing or merely a warning, the triumphs of the German youth showcase a crop of promising young potential superstars set to emerge as the phenomenal career of Birgit Prinz slowly winds to a close. Who will take her place? Take your pick. Alexandra Popp, Kim Kulig, and Fatmire Bajramaj are all poised to lead Germany into the next decade.
Prosperous teams need a solid foundation of highly technical and tactically smart central players within the game of soccer. The center midfielders are truly the backbone for any team. They must be creative and insightful offensively, yet able to transition into defensively slowing down the opponent’s offensive attack. A versatile midfielder, the young Kim Kulig has found success at both the defensive and attacking midfielder role.
Although relatively young, (born April 9, 1990) the 5’9 (1.76 m) Kulig has developed into a sensational midfielder at both the international and club level. With the German youth, Kulig’s 12 goals in 12 appearances at the U-19 level culminated with a third place finish at the 2008 U-20 World Cup illustrate her importance to the building of Germany’s future. Recently, she assisted the 2010 U-20 squad to the World Cup Championship, highlighted by her two goal performance in the semi-final match against Korea. Kulig debuted with the senior national team against China on February 25, 2009. With 17 appearances and three goals for the senior team and a member of the UEFA Women’s Championship 2009 team, Kulig is the real deal.
Currently, Kulig plays in the Frauen Bundesliga for her club team, Hamburg. Accepting the difficult role of leadership, Kulig understands that her experience and success has created the responsibility of “carrying the team.” After a brief rest due to an injured ankle, Kulig has returned “hungry” with renewed desire to lead the young Hamburg team to further success. Netting six goals for Hamburg this season, Kulig continues to impress soccer fans across the globe. If her ankle stays fit, watch for Kulig to make a valuable contribution to the 2011 German World Cup squad.
Mary Burns
Video uploaded from Adidasfussball You Tube channel
Recent article on Kulig:
http://dfb.de/index.php?id=500014&tx_dfbnews_pi1%5BshowUid%5D=25798&tx_dfbnews_pi4%5Bcat%5D=84
Prosperous teams need a solid foundation of highly technical and tactically smart central players within the game of soccer. The center midfielders are truly the backbone for any team. They must be creative and insightful offensively, yet able to transition into defensively slowing down the opponent’s offensive attack. A versatile midfielder, the young Kim Kulig has found success at both the defensive and attacking midfielder role.
Although relatively young, (born April 9, 1990) the 5’9 (1.76 m) Kulig has developed into a sensational midfielder at both the international and club level. With the German youth, Kulig’s 12 goals in 12 appearances at the U-19 level culminated with a third place finish at the 2008 U-20 World Cup illustrate her importance to the building of Germany’s future. Recently, she assisted the 2010 U-20 squad to the World Cup Championship, highlighted by her two goal performance in the semi-final match against Korea. Kulig debuted with the senior national team against China on February 25, 2009. With 17 appearances and three goals for the senior team and a member of the UEFA Women’s Championship 2009 team, Kulig is the real deal.
Currently, Kulig plays in the Frauen Bundesliga for her club team, Hamburg. Accepting the difficult role of leadership, Kulig understands that her experience and success has created the responsibility of “carrying the team.” After a brief rest due to an injured ankle, Kulig has returned “hungry” with renewed desire to lead the young Hamburg team to further success. Netting six goals for Hamburg this season, Kulig continues to impress soccer fans across the globe. If her ankle stays fit, watch for Kulig to make a valuable contribution to the 2011 German World Cup squad.
Mary Burns
Video uploaded from Adidasfussball You Tube channel
Recent article on Kulig:
http://dfb.de/index.php?id=500014&tx_dfbnews_pi1%5BshowUid%5D=25798&tx_dfbnews_pi4%5Bcat%5D=84
Women's World Cup Times Released
Match times for the 2011 Women’s World Cup were released after consultation with television and other forms of media have now concluded. Times listed are in local German time. The opening match in Berlin between host Germany and Canada will begin at 18:00. Below you fill find a list of key games as well as links to the entire schedule.
USA matches:June 28th versus Korea DPR in Dresden 18:15
July 2nd versus Columbia in Sinsheim 18:00
July 6th versus Sweden in Wolfsburg
Germany:June 26 versus Canada in Berlin 18:00
June 30 versus Nigeria in Frankfurt/Main 20:45
July 5 versus France in Moenchengladbach 20:45
Canada:June 26th Germany in Berlin 18:00
June 30th France in Bochum 18:00
July 5th Nigeria in Dresden 20:45
For a master schedule, please visit the following FIFA links:
http://www.fifa.com/womensworldcup/matches/index.html
http://www.fifa.com/mm/document/tournament/competition/01/11/73/26/fwwc2011_matchschedule_en_08122010.pdf
USA matches:June 28th versus Korea DPR in Dresden 18:15
July 2nd versus Columbia in Sinsheim 18:00
July 6th versus Sweden in Wolfsburg
Germany:June 26 versus Canada in Berlin 18:00
June 30 versus Nigeria in Frankfurt/Main 20:45
July 5 versus France in Moenchengladbach 20:45
Canada:June 26th Germany in Berlin 18:00
June 30th France in Bochum 18:00
July 5th Nigeria in Dresden 20:45
For a master schedule, please visit the following FIFA links:
http://www.fifa.com/womensworldcup/matches/index.html
http://www.fifa.com/mm/document/tournament/competition/01/11/73/26/fwwc2011_matchschedule_en_08122010.pdf
Monday, December 6, 2010
Snow disrupts most of Germany's Bundesliga Week 16;Wolfsburg Irate Over Playing Conditions
Across Germany, the first weekend of December brought a winter wonderland which disrupted all but two Frauen Bundesliga matches. Only the matches between Hamburger SV and FC Saarbrucken as well as the Turbine Potsdam versus Wolfsburg were completed. The rest of the scheduled matches were canceled due to unplayable field conditions.
Despite pre-match efforts to switch venues from Hamburger’s usual match ground to a training ground north of the city, additional snow caused a 45 minute delay as workers hurried to clear off the artificial pitch located in Norderstedt. Visiting squad Saarbrucken seemed to have effectively stayed loose despite the delay. Within the opening minutes of the match, Saarbrucken’s Cynthia Uwak was taken down inside of the penalty box. Sif Atladottir buried the penalty to give the away side an early lead.
Hamburger brushed off the opening goal much like all 78 fans in attendance brushed off the snow from earlier that day. After the initial Saarbrucken attack, Hamburger was able to gain confidence as well as control in possession. Antonia Göransson equalized the match in the 8th minute which in turn ignited Hamburger’s attack. Saarbrucken’s goalie, Romina Wood, was feeling intense pressure as Hamburger quickly pressed on for an additional goal. Hamburger needed only nine minutes after it’s initial goal to take the lead after Saarbrucken was whistled for a penalty in the box. German National team member, Kim Kulig successfully placed the penalty and Saarbrucken would never recover. Adding to Saarbrucken’s woes, Uwak had to leave in the 32nd minute followed by Noemie Beney in the early minutes of the second half due to a knee injury.
Hamburger added another goal in the 61st minute, as u-19 German National team player, Caroline Simon scored by delivering a line drive free kick. Saarbrucken’s coach admitted that HSV played “smarter and more effective” but that he was proud of his back four. HSV are currently 5th in the Bundesliga and FCS remain towards the bottom of the table in 10th place.
Goals: FCS: Atladottir (2nd PK )
HSV:Göransson (8th), Kulig (15 PK) Simon (62)
Wolfsburg entered the Bundesliga’s only other match this weekend with a strong will and determination to defeat UEFA Champions Turbine Potsdam. For 57 minutes, Wolfsburg was holding their own in a scoreless draw. Playing in miserable conditions, the match took on an unattractive tactical approach of long ball after long ball.
The deadlock appeared to broken in the 54th minute as Wolfsburg’s Verena Faisst brought down FIFA’s World Player of the year finalist, Fatmire Bajramaj in the penalty area. Faulty positioning on a snow covered pitch caused Jennifer Zeitz to miss the penalty shot. Potsdam needed only four minutes for redemption. German superstar, Anja Mittag found the back of the net for her 11th goal of the season.
Forced to push forward, Wolfsburg created more open space for the Potsdam counter attack. Yuki Nagasato’s 76th minute goal paved or rather “snow plowed” the way for Bajramaj and Bianca Schmidt as they added two more goals to Potsdam’s 4-0 victory.
Wolfsburg’s coach, Frank Pichatzek, (who was filling in for the injured head coach, Kellermann) was livid about playing in such poor conditions. He stated that long balls have nothing to do with soccer. He also added that many of his players were complaining of injuries as a result of the game. Players agreed with Pichatzek, stating that playing in these conditions were “insulting.”
Potsdam’s tactical approach and attitude were in direct contrast to Wolfsburg’s. Adjusting to the winter elements, Potsdam’s coach, Bernd Schröder, instructed his team to “play long balls followed by quick diagonal passes.” It may have not been fancy or pretty football, but in such conditions, Schröder was correct in his tactical attack. With players such as Nadine Kessler, Anja Mittag, and Fatmire Bajramaj, Potsdam can over power many opponents. Potsdam’s intimidating 4-3-3 formation has enabled four of their players to be in the top half of the leader board in goals scored.
Potsdam is currently in first place in the Bundesliga (although that will change once games are rescheduled) and Wolfsburg will remain in fourth place.
Mary Burns
SOURCES
http://www.turbine-potsdam.de/newsmeldung.php?id=17243&s=1011http://www.microsofttranslator.com/BV.aspx?ref=IE8Activity&a=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.vfl-wolfsburg.de%2F50496%2BM5cdc24c2e2c.htmlhttp://www.dfb.de/index.php?id=500014&tx_dfbnews_pi1[showUid]=25750&tx_dfbnews_pi4[cat]=84http://www.hsv.de/teams/meldungen/hsv-frauen/dezember-2010/31-heimerfolg-gegen-den-fc-saarbruecken/http://www.fc-saarbruecken.de/index.php/frauen.141.html
Despite pre-match efforts to switch venues from Hamburger’s usual match ground to a training ground north of the city, additional snow caused a 45 minute delay as workers hurried to clear off the artificial pitch located in Norderstedt. Visiting squad Saarbrucken seemed to have effectively stayed loose despite the delay. Within the opening minutes of the match, Saarbrucken’s Cynthia Uwak was taken down inside of the penalty box. Sif Atladottir buried the penalty to give the away side an early lead.
Hamburger brushed off the opening goal much like all 78 fans in attendance brushed off the snow from earlier that day. After the initial Saarbrucken attack, Hamburger was able to gain confidence as well as control in possession. Antonia Göransson equalized the match in the 8th minute which in turn ignited Hamburger’s attack. Saarbrucken’s goalie, Romina Wood, was feeling intense pressure as Hamburger quickly pressed on for an additional goal. Hamburger needed only nine minutes after it’s initial goal to take the lead after Saarbrucken was whistled for a penalty in the box. German National team member, Kim Kulig successfully placed the penalty and Saarbrucken would never recover. Adding to Saarbrucken’s woes, Uwak had to leave in the 32nd minute followed by Noemie Beney in the early minutes of the second half due to a knee injury.
Hamburger added another goal in the 61st minute, as u-19 German National team player, Caroline Simon scored by delivering a line drive free kick. Saarbrucken’s coach admitted that HSV played “smarter and more effective” but that he was proud of his back four. HSV are currently 5th in the Bundesliga and FCS remain towards the bottom of the table in 10th place.
Goals: FCS: Atladottir (2nd PK )
HSV:Göransson (8th), Kulig (15 PK) Simon (62)
Wolfsburg entered the Bundesliga’s only other match this weekend with a strong will and determination to defeat UEFA Champions Turbine Potsdam. For 57 minutes, Wolfsburg was holding their own in a scoreless draw. Playing in miserable conditions, the match took on an unattractive tactical approach of long ball after long ball.
The deadlock appeared to broken in the 54th minute as Wolfsburg’s Verena Faisst brought down FIFA’s World Player of the year finalist, Fatmire Bajramaj in the penalty area. Faulty positioning on a snow covered pitch caused Jennifer Zeitz to miss the penalty shot. Potsdam needed only four minutes for redemption. German superstar, Anja Mittag found the back of the net for her 11th goal of the season.
Forced to push forward, Wolfsburg created more open space for the Potsdam counter attack. Yuki Nagasato’s 76th minute goal paved or rather “snow plowed” the way for Bajramaj and Bianca Schmidt as they added two more goals to Potsdam’s 4-0 victory.
Wolfsburg’s coach, Frank Pichatzek, (who was filling in for the injured head coach, Kellermann) was livid about playing in such poor conditions. He stated that long balls have nothing to do with soccer. He also added that many of his players were complaining of injuries as a result of the game. Players agreed with Pichatzek, stating that playing in these conditions were “insulting.”
Potsdam’s tactical approach and attitude were in direct contrast to Wolfsburg’s. Adjusting to the winter elements, Potsdam’s coach, Bernd Schröder, instructed his team to “play long balls followed by quick diagonal passes.” It may have not been fancy or pretty football, but in such conditions, Schröder was correct in his tactical attack. With players such as Nadine Kessler, Anja Mittag, and Fatmire Bajramaj, Potsdam can over power many opponents. Potsdam’s intimidating 4-3-3 formation has enabled four of their players to be in the top half of the leader board in goals scored.
Potsdam is currently in first place in the Bundesliga (although that will change once games are rescheduled) and Wolfsburg will remain in fourth place.
Mary Burns
SOURCES
http://www.turbine-potsdam.de/newsmeldung.php?id=17243&s=1011http://www.microsofttranslator.com/BV.aspx?ref=IE8Activity&a=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.vfl-wolfsburg.de%2F50496%2BM5cdc24c2e2c.htmlhttp://www.dfb.de/index.php?id=500014&tx_dfbnews_pi1[showUid]=25750&tx_dfbnews_pi4[cat]=84http://www.hsv.de/teams/meldungen/hsv-frauen/dezember-2010/31-heimerfolg-gegen-den-fc-saarbruecken/http://www.fc-saarbruecken.de/index.php/frauen.141.html
Germans Dominate Nominations for FIFA
Germans Dominate Nominations for FIFA Women’s World Player of the Year and Coach of the Year
The shortlists for the newly merged Ballon d’Or and the FIFA Player and Coach of the World Award were trimmed down to three and announced on December 6. Voting for the award is now done by players (captains), coaches, and journalist combined. The women of Germany have provided four out of the six candidates on the players and coaches list.
Brazilian international superstar, Marta, appears again to be the heavy favorite against strong Germen competitors, Fatmire Bajramaj and Brigit Prinz for player of the year. Marta recently led Brazil to the women’s South American championship. Marta was also unstoppable in the USA’s Women’s Professional Soccer league during the 2010 season. While playing for the now folded FC Gold Pride, Marta tallied 19 goals while earning player MVP in the WPS championship game. She was also awarded the Golden Boot for the second consecutive year.
Birgit Prinz is currently leading her first place Bundesliga club team, FFC Frankfurt, with 17 goals. With Germany automatically qualifying for the Women’s World Cup, it was a quiet year for their National Team in terms of number of games as compared to other countries. Yet at age 33, Prinz remains the face of the German team, having scored a total of 126 international goals. Her lists of awards, achievements, and championships are impressive and ensure her as one of the greatest women‘s players of all time.
Another German National Team superstar, Fatmire Bajramaj is enjoying a successful club season as well. She has scored eight goals and two assists for the defending UEFA champions, FFC Turbine Potsdam. At just 22 years of age, she provides solid evidence that Germany’s continual international success remains secure.
Germany’s two attackers will have to sway many voters who will be drawn to Marta’s flare, speed, and finishing touch. Marta has been the World’s superstar and will not likely be dethroned unless a new sensation dominates the 2011 Women’s World Cup.
USA’s coach Pia Sundhage looks to be the favorite to win coach of the year over Germany’s Silvia Neid and U-20 coach Maren Meinert. Sundhage has led the FIFA number one ranked USA to a 2010 record of 15 wins, 1 loss and 2 draws. Despite failing to win the CONCACAF World Cup qualifying tournament, Sundhage and the USA managed to qualify by defeating Italy in a play-off. Sundhage may have the edge over Germany’s National team’s senior coach, Silvia Neid, as the USA defeated Germany twice in 2010. Meinert may be the underdog, but has an impressive 2010 U-20 Women’s World Cup championship to add to her list of accomplishments. Voters may be reluctant to vote for Sundhage due to the USA’s ugly technical performances as of late. If so, Meinert may be awarded for leading the young Germans to an impressive U-20 championship.
Listed below are the original short lists:
Women’s World Player 2010:Camille Abily (France), Fatmire Bajramaj (Germany), So Yun Ji (Korea Republic), Marta (Brazil), Birgit Prinz (Germany), Caroline Seger (Sweden), Christine Sinclair (Canada), Kelly Smith (England), Hope Solo (USA) and Abby Wambach (USA).
FIFA World Coach of the Year for Women’s Football 2010:Bruno Bini (France/France national team), In Cheul Choi (Korea Republic/Korea Republic U-20 national team), Maren Meinert (Germany/Germany U-20 national team), Albertin Montoya (USA/FC Gold Pride), Silvia Neid (Germany/Germany national team), Hope Powell (England/England national team), Norio Sasaki (Japan/Japan national team), Bernd Schröder (Germany/FFC Turbine Potsdam), Pia Sundhage (Sweden/USA national team), Béatrice von Siebenthal (Switzerland/Switzerland national team).
Mary Burns
Sources:
http://www.fifa.com/ballondor/fifaballondor/index.html
http://www.fifa.com/ballondor/coachoftheyear/index.html
http://www.fifa.com/ballondor/media/newsid=1323915/index.html
The shortlists for the newly merged Ballon d’Or and the FIFA Player and Coach of the World Award were trimmed down to three and announced on December 6. Voting for the award is now done by players (captains), coaches, and journalist combined. The women of Germany have provided four out of the six candidates on the players and coaches list.
Brazilian international superstar, Marta, appears again to be the heavy favorite against strong Germen competitors, Fatmire Bajramaj and Brigit Prinz for player of the year. Marta recently led Brazil to the women’s South American championship. Marta was also unstoppable in the USA’s Women’s Professional Soccer league during the 2010 season. While playing for the now folded FC Gold Pride, Marta tallied 19 goals while earning player MVP in the WPS championship game. She was also awarded the Golden Boot for the second consecutive year.
Birgit Prinz is currently leading her first place Bundesliga club team, FFC Frankfurt, with 17 goals. With Germany automatically qualifying for the Women’s World Cup, it was a quiet year for their National Team in terms of number of games as compared to other countries. Yet at age 33, Prinz remains the face of the German team, having scored a total of 126 international goals. Her lists of awards, achievements, and championships are impressive and ensure her as one of the greatest women‘s players of all time.
Another German National Team superstar, Fatmire Bajramaj is enjoying a successful club season as well. She has scored eight goals and two assists for the defending UEFA champions, FFC Turbine Potsdam. At just 22 years of age, she provides solid evidence that Germany’s continual international success remains secure.
Germany’s two attackers will have to sway many voters who will be drawn to Marta’s flare, speed, and finishing touch. Marta has been the World’s superstar and will not likely be dethroned unless a new sensation dominates the 2011 Women’s World Cup.
USA’s coach Pia Sundhage looks to be the favorite to win coach of the year over Germany’s Silvia Neid and U-20 coach Maren Meinert. Sundhage has led the FIFA number one ranked USA to a 2010 record of 15 wins, 1 loss and 2 draws. Despite failing to win the CONCACAF World Cup qualifying tournament, Sundhage and the USA managed to qualify by defeating Italy in a play-off. Sundhage may have the edge over Germany’s National team’s senior coach, Silvia Neid, as the USA defeated Germany twice in 2010. Meinert may be the underdog, but has an impressive 2010 U-20 Women’s World Cup championship to add to her list of accomplishments. Voters may be reluctant to vote for Sundhage due to the USA’s ugly technical performances as of late. If so, Meinert may be awarded for leading the young Germans to an impressive U-20 championship.
Listed below are the original short lists:
Women’s World Player 2010:Camille Abily (France), Fatmire Bajramaj (Germany), So Yun Ji (Korea Republic), Marta (Brazil), Birgit Prinz (Germany), Caroline Seger (Sweden), Christine Sinclair (Canada), Kelly Smith (England), Hope Solo (USA) and Abby Wambach (USA).
FIFA World Coach of the Year for Women’s Football 2010:Bruno Bini (France/France national team), In Cheul Choi (Korea Republic/Korea Republic U-20 national team), Maren Meinert (Germany/Germany U-20 national team), Albertin Montoya (USA/FC Gold Pride), Silvia Neid (Germany/Germany national team), Hope Powell (England/England national team), Norio Sasaki (Japan/Japan national team), Bernd Schröder (Germany/FFC Turbine Potsdam), Pia Sundhage (Sweden/USA national team), Béatrice von Siebenthal (Switzerland/Switzerland national team).
Mary Burns
Sources:
http://www.fifa.com/ballondor/fifaballondor/index.html
http://www.fifa.com/ballondor/coachoftheyear/index.html
http://www.fifa.com/ballondor/media/newsid=1323915/index.html
Saturday, December 4, 2010
More on Popp
From Reportage, Deutsche Welle. An in-depth look (in German) on rising star, Alexandra Popp. For more information on Popp, check out this post.
Now that the USWNT has qualified for the WWC, Women's College soccer is winding down, and the WPS is in the off-season, I will now turn my women's soccer coverage overseas. Focusing primarily on the German Bundesliga, expect updates every Monday. Many of this Sunday's matches were canceled to inclement weather leaving the focus to rest on power house and current second place Potsdam as they take on Wolfsburg and Martina Mueller.
Now that the USWNT has qualified for the WWC, Women's College soccer is winding down, and the WPS is in the off-season, I will now turn my women's soccer coverage overseas. Focusing primarily on the German Bundesliga, expect updates every Monday. Many of this Sunday's matches were canceled to inclement weather leaving the focus to rest on power house and current second place Potsdam as they take on Wolfsburg and Martina Mueller.
Friday, November 26, 2010
Future Women's Soccer Star; Germany's Alexandra Popp
Every four years, the world is introduced to emerging young soccer talent showcased in the World Cup tournament. With the Women’s World Cup being held in Germany next Summer, why not have an advantage in discovering the World’s next crop of super stars? As the months lead up to Germany 2011, this blog will strive to familiarize readers with the world’s next Martas and Mia Hamms.
As a special homage to the Women’s World Cup hosts, Germany, the first rising star will spotlight Alexandra Popp. Any fervent follower of the women’s game will have previously learned of Popp from her success at the U-20 Women’s World Cup this past summer. Leading Germany to the championship, Popp scored an impressive ten goals in just six matches. Popp was awarded with the Golden Ball and Golden Boot.
Born on April 6, 1991, Alexandra Popp is only 19 years of age. At 5’8 (1.74 meters) she has sufficient size. Popp’s greatest asset may be her versatility. Manager’s have the luxury of placing Popp anywhere on the left flank. Popp has used her experience as a left back to emerge as a speedy and threatening left wing attacker on the National squad.
Her success at the international level was evident even prior to her phenomenal performance during the U-20 World Cup. While playing with the U-17 squad she made 25 appearances and netted in 16 goals. Similar success followed her at the U-19 level with eight appearances and seven goals. Highlighted by the accomplishments in the U-20 World Cup, Popp scored 14 goals in nine appearances. Playing with the senior squad since early 2010, Popp has made 6 appearances and has scored two goals.
Alexandra Popp currently plays for the club team, FCI 2001 Duisburg. Recording impressive minutes as a starter, Popp has only been subbed out of one match during the past two seasons. This year, Popp has scored four goals as her team battles for the top positions in league play.
Follow Alexandra Popp through her club team’s web page: FCI 2001 Duisburg.
As a special homage to the Women’s World Cup hosts, Germany, the first rising star will spotlight Alexandra Popp. Any fervent follower of the women’s game will have previously learned of Popp from her success at the U-20 Women’s World Cup this past summer. Leading Germany to the championship, Popp scored an impressive ten goals in just six matches. Popp was awarded with the Golden Ball and Golden Boot.
Born on April 6, 1991, Alexandra Popp is only 19 years of age. At 5’8 (1.74 meters) she has sufficient size. Popp’s greatest asset may be her versatility. Manager’s have the luxury of placing Popp anywhere on the left flank. Popp has used her experience as a left back to emerge as a speedy and threatening left wing attacker on the National squad.
Her success at the international level was evident even prior to her phenomenal performance during the U-20 World Cup. While playing with the U-17 squad she made 25 appearances and netted in 16 goals. Similar success followed her at the U-19 level with eight appearances and seven goals. Highlighted by the accomplishments in the U-20 World Cup, Popp scored 14 goals in nine appearances. Playing with the senior squad since early 2010, Popp has made 6 appearances and has scored two goals.
Alexandra Popp currently plays for the club team, FCI 2001 Duisburg. Recording impressive minutes as a starter, Popp has only been subbed out of one match during the past two seasons. This year, Popp has scored four goals as her team battles for the top positions in league play.
Follow Alexandra Popp through her club team’s web page: FCI 2001 Duisburg.
Saturday, November 20, 2010
Is Now the Time for USWNT Change?
As a fan of the US Women’s National Soccer Team since the early 1990’s, I love when the women gain the country’s attention. With qualification to the World Cup resting on the result of the second leg against Italy, many questions are surfacing regarding team dynamics and tactics. After losing to Mexico, looking sloppy against Costa Rica, and a non-impressive first leg away win against Italy, fans are beginning to take away the symbolic clipboard from head coach Pia Sundhage.
Don’t let me fool you. I will be the first to point out the weaknesses in the team. However, if we honestly think about it--it would be a disaster if Pia tried to implement any of these changes at this particular time.
First, let us keep in mind that although it looks ugly, the US only lost one, yes ONE match in 2010. They defeated the all powerful Germany twice. During the CONCACAF tournament they only gave up two, yes two goals. Italy failed to score on the US on their own home field. During 2010, the US has only given up 8 goals in 17 games.
Why should Pia hit the panic button? Why should the head coach, who needs the unconditional respect of her team, suddenly seem worried and start messing with player’s confidence when the team has only lost one game? During press conferences, the US players seemed to want to tell the media and fans to “chill-out.”
If Pia would have changed her starting midfield for the Italy match, her actions would not have backed up her talk of “we are fine.” Now is not the time to change things. By calling up Lindsey Tarpley, Leslie Osborne, and Tina DiMartino, Pia acknowledged that improvements in the midfield were needed. This action sent a message to current starters such as Shannon Boxx, that their play had to drastically improve. These three players stayed off the final roster. Imagine if Pia had altered the line-up with one of these players who did not compete in Mexico, and the US lost. What would we be saying then? Why take a chance and radically break up team chemistry when all we have done is give up one goal? Do we not remember the horrid results of Greg Ryan and the Solo/Scurry drama?
As much as we can say that there are major technical problems with some players and that our tactical direct physical offensive play is no longer working (which Pia has tried to change), change does not come during the course of only one month. Yes, we need players to match up with the offensive tactical style that Pia is trying to establish, but our player pool of who can do this is small.
Alex Morgan is a shinning example of the future of the US program. She has excellent speed, good control, and a powerful and precise finish. She has proved that she can score under pressure. Combined with Abby Wambach, Morgan creates an offensive threat that few teams will be able to shut down--but now is not the time to start Morgan. I can appreciate what Pia is doing. Morgan is the super sub. She is allowing Morgan to gradually prove her worth without throwing the next “Mia Hamm” burden upon her shoulders. She is experimenting to see what combinations work well with Morgan. Perhaps after Morgan’s extra time goal against Italy, we will see her enter the game earlier in the second half. I do not expect her to start nor would I want her to start. If the US move on to the World Cup, then I expect Alex Morgan to start along side of Abby Wambach. That will be her time to shine.
Pia Sundhage surely understands what changes need to be made for next summer. I am also guessing that Pia knew that the US would probably survive a two match play-off versus Italy. The US needs to only make minor changes now to ensure qualification. Allow the major changes to be made during the many months leading up to the World Cup.
Mary Burns
Don’t let me fool you. I will be the first to point out the weaknesses in the team. However, if we honestly think about it--it would be a disaster if Pia tried to implement any of these changes at this particular time.
First, let us keep in mind that although it looks ugly, the US only lost one, yes ONE match in 2010. They defeated the all powerful Germany twice. During the CONCACAF tournament they only gave up two, yes two goals. Italy failed to score on the US on their own home field. During 2010, the US has only given up 8 goals in 17 games.
Why should Pia hit the panic button? Why should the head coach, who needs the unconditional respect of her team, suddenly seem worried and start messing with player’s confidence when the team has only lost one game? During press conferences, the US players seemed to want to tell the media and fans to “chill-out.”
If Pia would have changed her starting midfield for the Italy match, her actions would not have backed up her talk of “we are fine.” Now is not the time to change things. By calling up Lindsey Tarpley, Leslie Osborne, and Tina DiMartino, Pia acknowledged that improvements in the midfield were needed. This action sent a message to current starters such as Shannon Boxx, that their play had to drastically improve. These three players stayed off the final roster. Imagine if Pia had altered the line-up with one of these players who did not compete in Mexico, and the US lost. What would we be saying then? Why take a chance and radically break up team chemistry when all we have done is give up one goal? Do we not remember the horrid results of Greg Ryan and the Solo/Scurry drama?
As much as we can say that there are major technical problems with some players and that our tactical direct physical offensive play is no longer working (which Pia has tried to change), change does not come during the course of only one month. Yes, we need players to match up with the offensive tactical style that Pia is trying to establish, but our player pool of who can do this is small.
Alex Morgan is a shinning example of the future of the US program. She has excellent speed, good control, and a powerful and precise finish. She has proved that she can score under pressure. Combined with Abby Wambach, Morgan creates an offensive threat that few teams will be able to shut down--but now is not the time to start Morgan. I can appreciate what Pia is doing. Morgan is the super sub. She is allowing Morgan to gradually prove her worth without throwing the next “Mia Hamm” burden upon her shoulders. She is experimenting to see what combinations work well with Morgan. Perhaps after Morgan’s extra time goal against Italy, we will see her enter the game earlier in the second half. I do not expect her to start nor would I want her to start. If the US move on to the World Cup, then I expect Alex Morgan to start along side of Abby Wambach. That will be her time to shine.
Pia Sundhage surely understands what changes need to be made for next summer. I am also guessing that Pia knew that the US would probably survive a two match play-off versus Italy. The US needs to only make minor changes now to ensure qualification. Allow the major changes to be made during the many months leading up to the World Cup.
Mary Burns
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
USWNT verus Italy, Match preview
Members of the US Women’s National Team had scheduled various vacations before and after Thanksgiving. They assumed that they had plenty of time to rest before they were asked to train again after the CONCACAF Women’s World Cup qualification tournament in Mexico. Plans have changed. Rather than receiving a much needed rest, the US will be training and competing for the right to play in Germany for the Women’s World Cup next summer.
Finishing third in CONCACAF qualifying, the US earned a playoff spot against FIFA's 11th ranked Italy. The first match will be played in Padova, Italy on November 20th followed by a November 27th match in Chicago. The winner will be decided on aggregate.
After winning their initial qualifying group, Italy was placed in an eight team tournament play against other group winners. France defeated Italy 3-2 sending Italy to play other initial losers for a chance to play the CONCACAF third place team. After playing a home and away series for each opponent, Italy defeated the Ukraine (3-0 on aggregate) and Denmark (3-1 on aggregate). Italy then played Switzerland on October 23 and 27th.
Alessia Tuttino scored in the 86th minute against a Swiss squad down to 10 players due to a 36th minute sending off. The second leg between Italy and Switzerland produced a more offensive game. Italy defeated the Swiss 4-2 (in Switzerland) and advanced to play the US based on a 5-2 aggregate score.
Expect Italy to be a very technical team. Starting in 2009, they have placed an emphasis on rising to the level of other European teams. Led by such players as Patrizia Panico (86 international goals, plays for Sky Blue) Elisa Camporese, Elisabetta Tona, and Alessia Tuttino, Italy will look to challenge the US defense which has seemed vulnerable as of late. The Italians will try to control the midfield by being aggressive in moving the ball forward to free up space for their strikers. Italian midfielders will try to play the ball in behind the US defense while strikers will look for quick combinations or slotted balls.
The Italians should pose a credible threat to the FIFA #1 ranked US team. Defensively, the US central defenders need to close gaps often created on the counter attack. As of late, the US central defenders look out of position and hesitate when the opposing team is attacking off a dribble. Shannon Boxx must improve her central midfield play. The US needs to avoid their direct-central offensive play in order to defeat the Italians. Many US players make the unnecessary pass when they have had enough space to attack on the dribble. Both the defense and midfield resort to playing low percentage long balls to their strikers. This style of attack produced a blank against a tactically ready Mexican squad. Coach Pia Sundhage continues to encourage her players to attack using the flanks in hope that they will challenge and take on individual defenders. Against Costa Rica, Heather O’Reilly was the only notable midfielder attempting this. Lori Lindsey should also provide some attack on the flank for the US.
The height and power of the US strikers led by Abby Wambach should prevail against Italy’s defense and goalie, Anna Maria Picarelli. An alumna of Pepperdine University, Picarelli will be determined to ward off any US goals. At 5’4 and a Californian native, many had told Picarelli that she was too short to play for the US on a national level as well as play professionally. The daughter of an Italian father, she found success in Italy. Picarelli does well vertically and off set-pieces.
Despite the recent exposure of the US team’s weakness, keep in mind that the US has defeated many difficult European opponents this year including Sweden, Norway, and even defeating Germany twice. The US is a physical and intimidating team that always has a desire to win and the heart to achieve success.
Fun fact: USA’s first women’s international game was a 1-0 loss to Italy in 1985.
View Italy’s line-up versus Switzerland
Finishing third in CONCACAF qualifying, the US earned a playoff spot against FIFA's 11th ranked Italy. The first match will be played in Padova, Italy on November 20th followed by a November 27th match in Chicago. The winner will be decided on aggregate.
After winning their initial qualifying group, Italy was placed in an eight team tournament play against other group winners. France defeated Italy 3-2 sending Italy to play other initial losers for a chance to play the CONCACAF third place team. After playing a home and away series for each opponent, Italy defeated the Ukraine (3-0 on aggregate) and Denmark (3-1 on aggregate). Italy then played Switzerland on October 23 and 27th.
Alessia Tuttino scored in the 86th minute against a Swiss squad down to 10 players due to a 36th minute sending off. The second leg between Italy and Switzerland produced a more offensive game. Italy defeated the Swiss 4-2 (in Switzerland) and advanced to play the US based on a 5-2 aggregate score.
Expect Italy to be a very technical team. Starting in 2009, they have placed an emphasis on rising to the level of other European teams. Led by such players as Patrizia Panico (86 international goals, plays for Sky Blue) Elisa Camporese, Elisabetta Tona, and Alessia Tuttino, Italy will look to challenge the US defense which has seemed vulnerable as of late. The Italians will try to control the midfield by being aggressive in moving the ball forward to free up space for their strikers. Italian midfielders will try to play the ball in behind the US defense while strikers will look for quick combinations or slotted balls.
The Italians should pose a credible threat to the FIFA #1 ranked US team. Defensively, the US central defenders need to close gaps often created on the counter attack. As of late, the US central defenders look out of position and hesitate when the opposing team is attacking off a dribble. Shannon Boxx must improve her central midfield play. The US needs to avoid their direct-central offensive play in order to defeat the Italians. Many US players make the unnecessary pass when they have had enough space to attack on the dribble. Both the defense and midfield resort to playing low percentage long balls to their strikers. This style of attack produced a blank against a tactically ready Mexican squad. Coach Pia Sundhage continues to encourage her players to attack using the flanks in hope that they will challenge and take on individual defenders. Against Costa Rica, Heather O’Reilly was the only notable midfielder attempting this. Lori Lindsey should also provide some attack on the flank for the US.
The height and power of the US strikers led by Abby Wambach should prevail against Italy’s defense and goalie, Anna Maria Picarelli. An alumna of Pepperdine University, Picarelli will be determined to ward off any US goals. At 5’4 and a Californian native, many had told Picarelli that she was too short to play for the US on a national level as well as play professionally. The daughter of an Italian father, she found success in Italy. Picarelli does well vertically and off set-pieces.
Despite the recent exposure of the US team’s weakness, keep in mind that the US has defeated many difficult European opponents this year including Sweden, Norway, and even defeating Germany twice. The US is a physical and intimidating team that always has a desire to win and the heart to achieve success.
Fun fact: USA’s first women’s international game was a 1-0 loss to Italy in 1985.
View Italy’s line-up versus Switzerland
US Women defeat Costa Rica
Defeating Costa Rica 3-0, the US Women’s National Team finished the CONCACAF World Cup qualifying tournament scoring a total of 21 goals while only conceding one. Despite this impressive stat, the US finished in third place and must now defeat Italy on aggregate to proceed to Germany next summer.
With elimination on the line, the US looked poised and relaxed against Costa Rica. Coach Pia Sundhage had urged her team to attack using the flanks while playing in their 4-4-2 formation. Costa Rica was able to suppress the outside attack during much of the first half. Again, lack of US outside midfielders and defenders failed to challenge one versus one situations on the flanks which created a more direct central US attack. The US caught a break in the 17th minute when Lauren Cheney’s shot managed to catch Costa Rica’s goalie wrong footed.
Sporting a blue head band that covered her recent stitches earned during the Mexico match, Abby Wambach scored her 116th international goal in the 33rd minute with a picture perfect left footed volley. Wambach scored goal number 117 early in the second half to ensure the US victory.
Despite easily defeating Costa Rica, the US will face a more difficult Italian side in Italy on November 20 and again in Chicago on November 27. The winner will be decided on aggregate, which means that the team which scores the most goals will advance to the Women’s World Cup.
For a preview of the Italy-USA match, including info on Italy, please continue here: USWNT V ITALY
USWNT post match quotes
With elimination on the line, the US looked poised and relaxed against Costa Rica. Coach Pia Sundhage had urged her team to attack using the flanks while playing in their 4-4-2 formation. Costa Rica was able to suppress the outside attack during much of the first half. Again, lack of US outside midfielders and defenders failed to challenge one versus one situations on the flanks which created a more direct central US attack. The US caught a break in the 17th minute when Lauren Cheney’s shot managed to catch Costa Rica’s goalie wrong footed.
Sporting a blue head band that covered her recent stitches earned during the Mexico match, Abby Wambach scored her 116th international goal in the 33rd minute with a picture perfect left footed volley. Wambach scored goal number 117 early in the second half to ensure the US victory.
Despite easily defeating Costa Rica, the US will face a more difficult Italian side in Italy on November 20 and again in Chicago on November 27. The winner will be decided on aggregate, which means that the team which scores the most goals will advance to the Women’s World Cup.
For a preview of the Italy-USA match, including info on Italy, please continue here: USWNT V ITALY
USWNT post match quotes
Monday, November 8, 2010
Pre-game Thoughts For USWNT Must Win Game Versus Costa Rica
As the nation hopefully tunes into ESPN2 tonight at 6pm, the US will have to fight off many obstacles to keep their hopes of World Cup qualification alive. Challenged by playing in an unsupportive atmosphere, the US will look to remain undefeated and un-scored on by Costa Rica.
There remains little doubt that the women’s national team is still transitioning from their powerhouse dominating 90’s and pre-2007 World Cup days. While the US is building their identity and foundation for the future, the rest of the world has finally improved drastically. With better coaching and more opportunities, more parity has been created within the women’s game. Therefore, the lousy setup of the women’s CONCACAF World Cup qualification has been a joke and hopefully will be changed after this debacle of a tournament is over.
Tonight, the US has one simple task. Embrace the US women’s soccer tradition of never giving up. To embrace the competitive drive that I once witnessed as a young teenager when many national team players were playing in a “pick-up” soccer game. The desire to win was so intense that a fight almost broke out between two very good friends. Winning was everything, even in a pick-up soccer game.
If Costa Rica’s coaching staff knows what they are doing, they will come out in a 4-5-1formation--or a similar formation to congest and jam the midfield. During the CONCACAF tournament, the US midfield and defense has been frustrated and often times ineffective at controlling the midfield. Frantic play along with not developing a strong possession game has had the US starting matches a little “off” and sluggish. The midfield has not been able to settle down and become creative. Costa Rica will look to exploit this weakness and force the US to fall into their bad habit of playing a direct and physical style of soccer. If the US falls into this pattern, the referees will not tolerate the US physical play. Costa Rica may be able to have a quick counter against the US central defenders who have seemed vulnerable in quick counter situations.
The good news is that the US has never lost to Costa Rica and recently defeated them on November 1. The bad news is that it took the US a penalty kick late in the first half to start their scoring campaign. The other three goals all came in the second half. The US failed to capitalized on many scoring chances that game. The score could have been worse. However, Costa Rica definitely exposed the weaknesses in the US midfield and central defense.
To win tonight, look for the US to play more relaxed and less direct. The midfield needs to find width and use the flanks to initiate the attack. The US is a stronger side and has more depth. A quick attacking style that exposes gaps within the Costa Rican defense will free up Abby Wambach in the center. Look for sub (or starter?) Alex Morgan to come in to take some pressure off Wambach. The US will need to be disciplined and play a possession game.
The US may start veteran Kristine Lilly at left midfielder. Her experience and silent leadership should be beneficial during this stressful match. Lilly has always been the calm silent one.
One thing is for certain, the US Women’s National team once again has the country talking about them. Hopefully, they will rise to the challenge as they have always done.
There remains little doubt that the women’s national team is still transitioning from their powerhouse dominating 90’s and pre-2007 World Cup days. While the US is building their identity and foundation for the future, the rest of the world has finally improved drastically. With better coaching and more opportunities, more parity has been created within the women’s game. Therefore, the lousy setup of the women’s CONCACAF World Cup qualification has been a joke and hopefully will be changed after this debacle of a tournament is over.
Tonight, the US has one simple task. Embrace the US women’s soccer tradition of never giving up. To embrace the competitive drive that I once witnessed as a young teenager when many national team players were playing in a “pick-up” soccer game. The desire to win was so intense that a fight almost broke out between two very good friends. Winning was everything, even in a pick-up soccer game.
If Costa Rica’s coaching staff knows what they are doing, they will come out in a 4-5-1formation--or a similar formation to congest and jam the midfield. During the CONCACAF tournament, the US midfield and defense has been frustrated and often times ineffective at controlling the midfield. Frantic play along with not developing a strong possession game has had the US starting matches a little “off” and sluggish. The midfield has not been able to settle down and become creative. Costa Rica will look to exploit this weakness and force the US to fall into their bad habit of playing a direct and physical style of soccer. If the US falls into this pattern, the referees will not tolerate the US physical play. Costa Rica may be able to have a quick counter against the US central defenders who have seemed vulnerable in quick counter situations.
The good news is that the US has never lost to Costa Rica and recently defeated them on November 1. The bad news is that it took the US a penalty kick late in the first half to start their scoring campaign. The other three goals all came in the second half. The US failed to capitalized on many scoring chances that game. The score could have been worse. However, Costa Rica definitely exposed the weaknesses in the US midfield and central defense.
To win tonight, look for the US to play more relaxed and less direct. The midfield needs to find width and use the flanks to initiate the attack. The US is a stronger side and has more depth. A quick attacking style that exposes gaps within the Costa Rican defense will free up Abby Wambach in the center. Look for sub (or starter?) Alex Morgan to come in to take some pressure off Wambach. The US will need to be disciplined and play a possession game.
The US may start veteran Kristine Lilly at left midfielder. Her experience and silent leadership should be beneficial during this stressful match. Lilly has always been the calm silent one.
One thing is for certain, the US Women’s National team once again has the country talking about them. Hopefully, they will rise to the challenge as they have always done.
Saturday, November 6, 2010
USWNT Update
The US Women's crucial Word Cup qualifying match against Costa Rica will be shown live on ESPN2. The game is scheduled to start at 6pm. To qualify for the World Cup, the US needs to defeat Costa Rica and then play a home and away series against Italy. What makes me nervous is not the Costa Rica match, but the idea of Thierry Henry scoring for Italy by using his hand.
All fans of the USA Women's team must check out their blog. http://www.ussoccer.com/Social/WNT-Blog.aspx
As for an Abby Wambach status, the US is reporting that she will be 100% ready for Monday's match. The question remains if the US defense will be ready. The defense four along with the midfield had a horrid time against Mexico. They played with fear and panic which led to numerous poor touches, pointless long balls, and poor passes. I was most displeased with Heather Mitts and wonder if Pia will sit her again.
Pia had the luxury of constantly rotating subs throughout the tournament outscoring opponents 18-0 prior to the Mexico match. Perhaps Pia will have to show her cards now, so to speak. She will be forced to select her finest 11 on the pitch for Costa Rica.
All fans of the USA Women's team must check out their blog. http://www.ussoccer.com/Social/WNT-Blog.aspx
As for an Abby Wambach status, the US is reporting that she will be 100% ready for Monday's match. The question remains if the US defense will be ready. The defense four along with the midfield had a horrid time against Mexico. They played with fear and panic which led to numerous poor touches, pointless long balls, and poor passes. I was most displeased with Heather Mitts and wonder if Pia will sit her again.
Pia had the luxury of constantly rotating subs throughout the tournament outscoring opponents 18-0 prior to the Mexico match. Perhaps Pia will have to show her cards now, so to speak. She will be forced to select her finest 11 on the pitch for Costa Rica.
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
What can we learn from the CONCACAF Women's WC qualifying? Part 2
As discussed in part 1, the CONCACAF World Cup qualifying tournament is providing viewers with a glimpse into the Pia Sundhage era of US soccer. What is exciting about the current US women’s team is the emergence of young exciting players developing within Pia’s system while still experiencing playing with battle-tested legends such as Abby Wambach and Kristine Lilly.
What can we expect offensively from the US in next years World Cup? Watch Alex Morgan. I believe she will be the next generation’s superstar. From what I have seen, she has a solid technical strike on the ball. Her shots are powerful and accurate. She has tremendous speed even when she has the ball at her feet. She possesses the basics of one v one skills that most of the players lack.
Although Morgan has only been used as a sub recently, she has created a much needed offensive spark during these matches. Morgan provides the creativity and danger that is otherwise lacking within the US game. The October 6 match against China may have provided an exciting foreshadowing of the USA’s offensive future. Abby Wambach and Alex Morgan worked in tandem with natural ease resulting in an important goal.
Let's face it. Abby Wambach needs Alex Morgan. The fast technicaly savvy style of Alex Morgan is a perfect match paired with Wambach’s physical and dangerous presence If Morgan becomes a threat--will opponents dare to double team Wambach and allow Morgan to be free? This tandem could perhaps become even more dangerous than Hamm and Akers.
I am hoping that Pia will allow Morgan to be a substitute for Lauren Cheney or Amy Rodriguez rather than for Abby Wambach as was the case against Costa Rica. In time we will know for sure, but as of now, Morgan is exciting to watch.
click here to read part 1
What can we expect offensively from the US in next years World Cup? Watch Alex Morgan. I believe she will be the next generation’s superstar. From what I have seen, she has a solid technical strike on the ball. Her shots are powerful and accurate. She has tremendous speed even when she has the ball at her feet. She possesses the basics of one v one skills that most of the players lack.
Although Morgan has only been used as a sub recently, she has created a much needed offensive spark during these matches. Morgan provides the creativity and danger that is otherwise lacking within the US game. The October 6 match against China may have provided an exciting foreshadowing of the USA’s offensive future. Abby Wambach and Alex Morgan worked in tandem with natural ease resulting in an important goal.
Let's face it. Abby Wambach needs Alex Morgan. The fast technicaly savvy style of Alex Morgan is a perfect match paired with Wambach’s physical and dangerous presence If Morgan becomes a threat--will opponents dare to double team Wambach and allow Morgan to be free? This tandem could perhaps become even more dangerous than Hamm and Akers.
I am hoping that Pia will allow Morgan to be a substitute for Lauren Cheney or Amy Rodriguez rather than for Abby Wambach as was the case against Costa Rica. In time we will know for sure, but as of now, Morgan is exciting to watch.
click here to read part 1
What can we learn from the CONCACAF Women's WC qualifying? Part 1
As the US Women’s National Team cruises through the CONCACAF Women’s World Cup qualification tournament, it becomes difficult to breakdown the strengths and weaknesses of the team as it prepares for next summer’s World Cup. Despite frequent matches in which the US were not displaying their true offensive power early on, heading into the semi-finals, the US has outscored their opponents 18-0.
Despite being reduced to watching the tournament on-line with a camera angle which provides sub-par tactical viewing, I have to acknowledge that Coach Pia is clearly leading this team in the right direction. When hired as head coach, Pia challenged the offense to be more creative and comfortable in aggressive one versus one soccer. To the average soccer fan, especially our friends on the other side of the pond, this may seem like a no-brainer. However, as a former soccer coach, I can attest to the weakness of one on one skills in the women’s game.
The skills of Brazilian superstar Marta definitely open the eyes of many young soccer playing girls. Even the USA’s greatest players (Akers, Hamm, Wambach) never had moves like Marta. There is something that occurs within the development of US youth girl soccer players that sucks the desire to dribble right out of them. Before the age of ten, players are content to dribble around until they can find a way to push the ball into the goal. They love dribbling. That ball is their's and their's alone. Around the age of ten, a little demon appears within the conscience of young girls as they learn the tactical/technical aspects of the passing game. The demon disrupts the once natural urge to dribble. The demon now commands the girls to make passing their first option. Watch any high school and college game--when a young woman finds herself alone with a defender she will most often choose to pass the ball off rather than take the individual defender on.. The few girls who manage to ignore the demon are often ridiculed and labled as “ball hogs,” and “showy” when their teams are not successful.
No one really realized that the US women were deficient in this skill due to their continual domination on the international stage. Fortunately, the 2007 Women’s World Cup opened our eyes. We not only lost--we were destroyed by teams we used to easily dominate. Brazil had burst our bubble. Goalie controversies led to the exposure of a faulty foundation. We were on the brink of a disaster. Thankfully, the hiring committee (which included Mia Hamm) did something unthinkable. They hired a foreigner to lead their program.
Since that time, Pia Sundhage has slowly rebuilt the US team correctly. She has been patient. She has been successful. So far. CLICK HERE TO GO TO PART 2
Despite being reduced to watching the tournament on-line with a camera angle which provides sub-par tactical viewing, I have to acknowledge that Coach Pia is clearly leading this team in the right direction. When hired as head coach, Pia challenged the offense to be more creative and comfortable in aggressive one versus one soccer. To the average soccer fan, especially our friends on the other side of the pond, this may seem like a no-brainer. However, as a former soccer coach, I can attest to the weakness of one on one skills in the women’s game.
The skills of Brazilian superstar Marta definitely open the eyes of many young soccer playing girls. Even the USA’s greatest players (Akers, Hamm, Wambach) never had moves like Marta. There is something that occurs within the development of US youth girl soccer players that sucks the desire to dribble right out of them. Before the age of ten, players are content to dribble around until they can find a way to push the ball into the goal. They love dribbling. That ball is their's and their's alone. Around the age of ten, a little demon appears within the conscience of young girls as they learn the tactical/technical aspects of the passing game. The demon disrupts the once natural urge to dribble. The demon now commands the girls to make passing their first option. Watch any high school and college game--when a young woman finds herself alone with a defender she will most often choose to pass the ball off rather than take the individual defender on.. The few girls who manage to ignore the demon are often ridiculed and labled as “ball hogs,” and “showy” when their teams are not successful.
No one really realized that the US women were deficient in this skill due to their continual domination on the international stage. Fortunately, the 2007 Women’s World Cup opened our eyes. We not only lost--we were destroyed by teams we used to easily dominate. Brazil had burst our bubble. Goalie controversies led to the exposure of a faulty foundation. We were on the brink of a disaster. Thankfully, the hiring committee (which included Mia Hamm) did something unthinkable. They hired a foreigner to lead their program.
Since that time, Pia Sundhage has slowly rebuilt the US team correctly. She has been patient. She has been successful. So far. CLICK HERE TO GO TO PART 2
Monday, September 27, 2010
How Regional Teams can Save the WPS
The WPS season ended Sunday night with a tape-delayed Fox Soccer Channel viewing of FC Gold Pride destroying Philadelphia 4-0. Benefiting from an odd play-off format, FC Gold only had to play in the championship game while Philly had to win two prior matches before meeting up with an amazing FC Gold squad. As a women’s soccer fan, it is saddening to think that the world’s best female soccer players are only worth a tape delayed championship game.
When the WPS was created, my husband insisted that the organization had overlooked an opportunity to create a widespread fan following. He suggested that the WPS create regional based teams rather than having a team locked into a particular city. Although players would not have a true “home field,” a regional team would likely boost ticket sales and increase the number of fans. If the WPS created a Midwest team, the team could play its home games in Chicago, Detroit, Cleveland, and Cincinnati. If a city has only two or three opportunities to see top level women’s soccer, fans are more likely to want to buy tickets and attend the match. Fans proved that they will come out to support women's soccer during the 2003 Women's World Cup when the venue was suddently changed from China to the USA due to the SARS outbreak.
To coincide with the regional teams, the WPS needs to exploit the profitable youth club soccer organizations. Large youth tournaments field thousands of local and out of state players. Why not schedule a WPS match in a city where one of the larger tournaments are being held and offer discounted tickets?
As the WPS continues to improve on marketing the league, I hope that they learn to promote Marta like a god. Although I am well aware that the league consists of many star players, there is something special about Marta. Unfortunately, I have only seen her promoted during the all-star game and on a Puma commercial. As far as I am concerned, Marta needs to be on all of the morning news shows performing all different kinds of ball tricks to draw more people in.
The WPS needs to also know not to compete with the NFL. Why was Philadelphia playing Washington in Philly on a late Sunday afternoon during NFL season? Conclude the season prior to the NFL or schedule games on a Friday night. Sunday’s in the United States are reserved for food and football. With NFL games on throughout the day and evening, the WPS will lose some of its fan base.
I live at least five hours from the closest WPS team. My opportunities to watch matches rest soley on Fox Soccer Channel. Let’s hope that with the Women’s World Cup next year that the WPS will continue to showcase the talent of women’s soccer and create more opportunites for the WPS to become more visible. I would like to see this league last more than three years.
When the WPS was created, my husband insisted that the organization had overlooked an opportunity to create a widespread fan following. He suggested that the WPS create regional based teams rather than having a team locked into a particular city. Although players would not have a true “home field,” a regional team would likely boost ticket sales and increase the number of fans. If the WPS created a Midwest team, the team could play its home games in Chicago, Detroit, Cleveland, and Cincinnati. If a city has only two or three opportunities to see top level women’s soccer, fans are more likely to want to buy tickets and attend the match. Fans proved that they will come out to support women's soccer during the 2003 Women's World Cup when the venue was suddently changed from China to the USA due to the SARS outbreak.
To coincide with the regional teams, the WPS needs to exploit the profitable youth club soccer organizations. Large youth tournaments field thousands of local and out of state players. Why not schedule a WPS match in a city where one of the larger tournaments are being held and offer discounted tickets?
As the WPS continues to improve on marketing the league, I hope that they learn to promote Marta like a god. Although I am well aware that the league consists of many star players, there is something special about Marta. Unfortunately, I have only seen her promoted during the all-star game and on a Puma commercial. As far as I am concerned, Marta needs to be on all of the morning news shows performing all different kinds of ball tricks to draw more people in.
The WPS needs to also know not to compete with the NFL. Why was Philadelphia playing Washington in Philly on a late Sunday afternoon during NFL season? Conclude the season prior to the NFL or schedule games on a Friday night. Sunday’s in the United States are reserved for food and football. With NFL games on throughout the day and evening, the WPS will lose some of its fan base.
I live at least five hours from the closest WPS team. My opportunities to watch matches rest soley on Fox Soccer Channel. Let’s hope that with the Women’s World Cup next year that the WPS will continue to showcase the talent of women’s soccer and create more opportunites for the WPS to become more visible. I would like to see this league last more than three years.
Sunday, August 29, 2010
Klinsmann is not a good fit for the US National Team. But who is?
Four years ago I was upset with the US Soccer Federation for their failure to persuade Jurgen Klinsmann to accept the position of National Team coach. When they named Bob Bradley as permanent head coach, I became more upset. I could not understand why we had failed again to sign a foreign coach.
At least the women figured this out. After a dismal ’07 Women’s World Cup, the US Women made the bold decision in naming Pia Sundhage, a native of Sweden, as their new head coach. If the world powerhouse US Women can realize that they needed to change their approach as the rest of the world caught up to their level of play--why then do we have the men’s team remaining blind to our Nation’s soccer needs? The US women’s hiring committee knew all along that they needed a tatically minded European to elevate the women’s team back to world dominance. As of August 2010, Pia Sundhage has the highest winning percentage of US women’s team coaches, with an impressive record of 40-1-3.
Now it is the men’s turn to make that bold move. The US Soccer Federation president Sunil Gulati is currently meeting with current national team head coach Bob Bradley and the man who might replace him, Jurgen Klinsmann.I am in favor of not rehiring Bradley yet I no longer have the desire to hire Klinsmann. Why should the US hire Jurgen Klinsmann, whose only success as coach was with the German National Squad? Klinsmann’s winning approach to the German squad during the 2006 World Cup was a combination of an explosive offensive attack and an innovative conditioning/fitness approach. Klinsmann effectively implemented a sports fitness routine that most professional sports teams use in the USA. Although it was ground breaking in Germany, it will not be groundbreaking in the USA. As for the highly explosive attack—I do not believe that the US needs an offensive juggernaut but rather the US needs a defensive genius. The back four in the US South African lineup was subpar at best. How can the US afford to be explosive offensively and risk a vulnerable counter attack? Even if we take the weak defense out of the equation, there still remains the issue of the direct unimaginative play of the midfield.
The US Soccer Federation needs to step back and assess what the program really needs. We can conclude that the US is lacking any true native candidates for the job. May we also conclude that the US should not look to hire any big name European coaches? It may prove to be a waste of money.
Stop and think for a moment. In Europe, at what level can we find the best coaches? Most likely within the youth level. Youth coaching provides a valid and key importance to the development of the national and club teams of the country. Youth academies adhere to a strict top level technical training program while providing the players with a tactical understanding and knowledge of the game. The managers at the top professional levels are superb. We can possibly compare them to the NBA coach. They manage the team of superstars. At this level, they do not need to develop the players technically. Does an NBA coach really need to address technical issues with his players? If he does, chances are the player does not belong in the NBA. An NBA player is going to have the tactical understanding along with the skill set to be a creative an effective player whereas the college or high school player is still going to need some technical guidance. The US National Team does not need an NBA type coach. Rather, the US National Team needs a coach that will continue to educate the player on both skills and tatics.
Perceptive US youth club directors are now seeing how the North American player fails to understand the game of soccer. Tactically, our players are often clueless. Their instincts are poor due to the over “coaching” and not enough creative license being given to the young soccer player. Let’s face it—has the USA, a country of over 300 million, produced an international superstar? Granted, soccer is not the North American game of choice. Yet, one would think with all of the immigrants and children playing soccer today that there would be at least one. Landon Donovan is the closest we have, but he is aging.
As many of the world’s soccer super stars hail from poor and rough neighborhoods, USA’s best soccer players typically come from a small pool of those who can afford the enormous financial burden of elite soccer teams/programs. In its current form, successful immigrant children such as Zidane, Klose, or Podolski, would not have climbed through the ranks of US soccer. I do not believe that a European coach will understand this system.
The solution for the US remains elusive. Perhaps we should extend our coaching search to South America. With the recent success of South American teams in the World Cup combined with South American players starting to make a name for themselves in Europe, one would think that they eyes of the US Federation would head south.
Whatever the answer is, the reality of US soccer is that we are still at least eight years away from being a viable world threat.
At least the women figured this out. After a dismal ’07 Women’s World Cup, the US Women made the bold decision in naming Pia Sundhage, a native of Sweden, as their new head coach. If the world powerhouse US Women can realize that they needed to change their approach as the rest of the world caught up to their level of play--why then do we have the men’s team remaining blind to our Nation’s soccer needs? The US women’s hiring committee knew all along that they needed a tatically minded European to elevate the women’s team back to world dominance. As of August 2010, Pia Sundhage has the highest winning percentage of US women’s team coaches, with an impressive record of 40-1-3.
Now it is the men’s turn to make that bold move. The US Soccer Federation president Sunil Gulati is currently meeting with current national team head coach Bob Bradley and the man who might replace him, Jurgen Klinsmann.I am in favor of not rehiring Bradley yet I no longer have the desire to hire Klinsmann. Why should the US hire Jurgen Klinsmann, whose only success as coach was with the German National Squad? Klinsmann’s winning approach to the German squad during the 2006 World Cup was a combination of an explosive offensive attack and an innovative conditioning/fitness approach. Klinsmann effectively implemented a sports fitness routine that most professional sports teams use in the USA. Although it was ground breaking in Germany, it will not be groundbreaking in the USA. As for the highly explosive attack—I do not believe that the US needs an offensive juggernaut but rather the US needs a defensive genius. The back four in the US South African lineup was subpar at best. How can the US afford to be explosive offensively and risk a vulnerable counter attack? Even if we take the weak defense out of the equation, there still remains the issue of the direct unimaginative play of the midfield.
The US Soccer Federation needs to step back and assess what the program really needs. We can conclude that the US is lacking any true native candidates for the job. May we also conclude that the US should not look to hire any big name European coaches? It may prove to be a waste of money.
Stop and think for a moment. In Europe, at what level can we find the best coaches? Most likely within the youth level. Youth coaching provides a valid and key importance to the development of the national and club teams of the country. Youth academies adhere to a strict top level technical training program while providing the players with a tactical understanding and knowledge of the game. The managers at the top professional levels are superb. We can possibly compare them to the NBA coach. They manage the team of superstars. At this level, they do not need to develop the players technically. Does an NBA coach really need to address technical issues with his players? If he does, chances are the player does not belong in the NBA. An NBA player is going to have the tactical understanding along with the skill set to be a creative an effective player whereas the college or high school player is still going to need some technical guidance. The US National Team does not need an NBA type coach. Rather, the US National Team needs a coach that will continue to educate the player on both skills and tatics.
Perceptive US youth club directors are now seeing how the North American player fails to understand the game of soccer. Tactically, our players are often clueless. Their instincts are poor due to the over “coaching” and not enough creative license being given to the young soccer player. Let’s face it—has the USA, a country of over 300 million, produced an international superstar? Granted, soccer is not the North American game of choice. Yet, one would think with all of the immigrants and children playing soccer today that there would be at least one. Landon Donovan is the closest we have, but he is aging.
As many of the world’s soccer super stars hail from poor and rough neighborhoods, USA’s best soccer players typically come from a small pool of those who can afford the enormous financial burden of elite soccer teams/programs. In its current form, successful immigrant children such as Zidane, Klose, or Podolski, would not have climbed through the ranks of US soccer. I do not believe that a European coach will understand this system.
The solution for the US remains elusive. Perhaps we should extend our coaching search to South America. With the recent success of South American teams in the World Cup combined with South American players starting to make a name for themselves in Europe, one would think that they eyes of the US Federation would head south.
Whatever the answer is, the reality of US soccer is that we are still at least eight years away from being a viable world threat.
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