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.
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