Dissapearing in the Pitch

Sunday morning I saw the game Racing Lens v. Marseille. I have always loved French football, especially the Marseille style. The basics of that teams, as Guadalajara or Ajax, are completely unending. Players such as Mathieu Flamini and Samir Nasri, or players who now are stars in their teams (maturing from previous clubs) such as William Gallas or Didier Drogba, have passed through the process of Droi Au But. Gol TV commentators were discussing the labor of something I have already noticed long ago. It was a pretty common syndrome against over-talented players: desapearing in the pitch. It had happened to Zidane, to van der Vaart, to Robben, to Cruyff, even Pelé in his early and youthful days. It was appointed by Diego Valado and his partner Sunday morning, but it is an issue I will discuss, it is extent and even I suffered from it, before my injury.
The main topic was, before all, Marseille's elimination of UEFA Cup against the modest Zenit from Russia. The president of the French side was made some statements regarding the lack of effort by some players, two particularly. He did not mentioned any of these but it was clearly that the message was directed for the two most talented players, Nasri and Cissé.

Disappearing in the pitch is a phenomenon usually related with two things, mispositioning since the very basics of football learning or a complete lack of identity towards the position the player's playing.
The first has to do with the inability of making a good and solid performance at a required position. The absence of maneuvering, or the opposite when the player is always wanting the ball in an ubicous state (my case), is the first of a series of indications. After this, comes the inability of having a good play or to distribute the ball in the simplest of ways. Then the confusion of making a standout. Of course pitch conditions such as length(official or unofficial) and the context of the game (win, draw or loose) contribute to the confusion. The best example in this phase is Theo Walcott. Since his early days he has been playing on the wing, but in the U-23 England team his position was reorientated towards the forward. Mr. Wenger viewed his evident talent, and wanted to do the same that years ago functioned marvelously with the "Unnamble". This is a delicate point because it is just one conclusion. If the player is really talented his style will boost, as well as the confidence, but in the opposite the player will lost the guideline and eventually will enter the second phase.
This second phase is very difficult and when most of talented players loose reigns and became something different from what it was suppossed to happen. They either turn into a different position, not knowing clearly the pros and cons of each role. This as an example with Castroman's switch from defensive midfielder to striker. The fact that a good midfielder scores and provides chances and game to the team does not assure that, in case of becoming a forward, will earn an unseen array of goals. The opposite example could be Tomás Rosicky, which began in the position of Cesc in his Praga days, and evolved naturally towards an offensive midfielder, who provided opportunities, feeding forwards, the most close example of a link in Europe. In The Arsenal he has brought an immense array of attacking possibilities, reaching unimaginable possibilities of game play. The other point is the natural selection; the players miraculously enters a different position, not prestablished, and performs even better that in his previous position. A good example is Willy Sagnol (performing a Right Midfielder in a season) or Owen Hargreaves, the opposite of the "Unnamble" who was carried by his mentor.
Some may ask about Johan Cruyff. He was different is every sense of the word, so I will not mention him. He was a different player, from all the players, and from all the Legends.

How can a player can overcome this problem?
The first step is getting the right information on time and from a source completely aware of the growth of the player, both psychologically and sport. This can be the manager or an assistant , or the skipper. The accurate handling of information is crucial to the following step. The best example was Nasri's celebration towards the President, he made sure everybody that he is playing and not giving up. A little critic can be useful sometimes, to put the player back on earth. But this is tricky because it depends on the player, he can make what Nasri or can become an Adriano.
The second step getting over this problem is reached in a more mature state, when the player is fully conscious of his capabilities, disabilities, advantages etc. Of course this can be obtained younger, but it is mainly through a couple of seasons that players reach the state of autocritic. When this happen the player can soar up the level of a team, reaching his best and acquiring a good understanding of the game.

Then when a 'crack' or a 'legend' is born, different things happen. They can derive and make the match sway towards his favor. Very few talented and skilled players can become leaders: Zidane, Cruyff, Totti, Fachetti etc. But the Football personality that is inflicted towards a team with talent and command is something for other post.

Chelsea v. Arsenal 2-1 (23/Mar/08)

The title race is over. Watching early in the morning the Gamecast from Soccernet was really devastating. Mexican private TV did not broadcast the match. And they retransmitted it in a completely unavailable schedule, 20:00 GMT. I could not saw it live but the extended highlights and the matchcast along with live commentators and postmatch reviews gave and overall of the loss. It is nearly stupid that such an important game is not broadcasted live. Instead of the Arsenal match, CONCACAF club knockout stage was repeated. It is important, but seeing Saprissa beat Atlante with two days of delay, is as awkward as seeing Mexico U-23 play. I am still very angry and completely shocked by this decision, that is why I will concentrate this post on the second aspect of the reviews, which are the comments, not the formal analysis of the game.
The home side was really eager on getting the lead all the game, through many attempts, in which both Coles shone. The Arsenal made little progress in founding their gameplay and obviously were overwhelmed by Chelsea midfield. The game was pretty even, with both sides looking for action and many attempts made. A pretty entertained match until the Sagna header came, then nearly all the game was on Chelsea's side. Didier Drigba showed the quality of his gamestyle nearly reaching a hat-trick. The Arsenal saved from a thunderous 4-1, thanks to Almunia's savings. The final stages of the match were tougher for the North Londoners. Final whistle was the lowdown on mistakes. The final dismay of the dropping-points melee ended in a disappointing game.
Man Utd will not hold back any points from now to the end and is pretty unsure that Chelsea too. Arsenal's next schedule is against the toughest rival for the Londoners, aside the big three. Bolton has proved to be a very difficult side in the last five years. Then is Liverpool thrice and Utd away. This schedule can be no tougher and the prospect of winning is just in the UCL matches. There is no room for mistakes if Arsenal wants to end in a better position. Forget about the title. I know I am being to much fatalistic on this position but if we face the reality the pace of Utd is no longer reachable considering the current functioning of the team. What appeared to be the season of seasons is a struggle for hope in the isle and a bright future in Europe.
Apart from the sadness that the match brought to many Gooners around the world, and although some say title race is not finished (including Mr. Wenger), it is pretty obvious that the London side will have to struggle with the remaining weapons to achieve at least a second place to direct UCL qualification next season, and putting all the energy on the clash against the Mersey side.
Something that I will consider unappropiate will be Mr. Wenger declarations finishing season , which could justify himself; "We try to fight for the two main trophies". He did it when we reached the final at Paris, saying all the season that they "Will keep fighting for the title". Contradictory as many of his statements when under pressure. Its a supposition but it will happen.

Five years have passed...

Almost one week ago was the 5th anniversary of the beginning of operations in Iraq. What was supoosed to last a couple of months, has become a bloody, an in many cases, unnecessary conflict, followed by political and economical interest of the people in the power. Many countries have withdrawn and almost 4,000 US lives have been taken away, among tens of thousand of Iraqi souls also.
A prayer to all the men and women in service, who were, who are and those who returned home. Here an extract of one of my favorite blank verse poems(along with The Fall of Hyperion) that, I think, epitomizes this conflict.

"I wish I could translate the hints about the dead young men
and women,
And the hints about old men and mothers, and the offspring
taken soon put of their laps.

What do you think has become of the young and old men?
And what do you think has become of the women and
children

They are alive and well somewhere,
The smallest sprout shows there is really no death,
And if ever there was it led forward life, and does not wait
at the end to arrest it
And ceas'd the moment life appear'd

All goes onward and outward, nothing collapses,
And to die is different from what any one supposed, and
luckier."(69)


"With music strong I come, with my cornets and my drums,
I play not marches for accepted victors only, I play marches
for conquer'd and slain persons.

Have you heard that it was good to gain the day?
I also say it is good to fall, battles are lost in the same spirit
in which they are won.

I beat and pound for the dead,
I blow through my embouchures my loudest and gayest
for them.

Vivas to those who have fail'd!
And to those whose war-vessels sank in the sea!
And to those themselves who sank in the sea!
And to all generals that lost engagements, and all overcome
heroes!
And the numberless unknown heroes equal to the greatest
heroes known!"(80-81)

"Song of Myself" in The Complete Poems. Walt Whitman. Penguin Classics: London. 2004.

Arsenal v. Middlesbrough 1-1 (15/Mar/08)

Another tie in this unending series of draws saw the Arsenal waste another opportunity and this time loosing the one lead point against United. The Londoners miraculously found the back of the net late in the game. Next week tie is against west Londoners Chelsea, and the team is at this point balancing in the thin rope, not just by loosing points but also in the bad functioning of the team. Title contending chances are lesser and lesser and although it would be a very tough ending there are three teams fighting for the title and two of them had one game in wait. A great chance of cutting that advantage was given today but the Gunners could not get the job done, saving from a defeat that would have left the team with little choices for title. Now is the time for becoming what the team has been in the whole season. The youngsters must take the lead and show what they are made of. AC Milan game has past and it is for certain that this games will be the turning point if the team does not earn any silverware. Both games against Boro and the eight point loss, are the turning points of the season regarding mistakes. Tomorrow is also a turning point but for Mexican U-23.
The transmission, here in Latin America was supposed to begin at 1400 Mexican time at Fox Sports Cono Sur, but instead it was broadcasted fifteen minutes before the hour and at another channel; Fox Sports en Español. This channel transmitted for at least four years before the Argentinian version monopolized English football. Before the introduction of English football by Fox Sports I used to watch it at BBC. There was a change in signals and therefore BBC Latin American Channel stopped broadcasting English and Scottish football as well as Rugby. This transmission was a really nostalgic one. I heard the voice of John Laguna again and I remember all those games in Highbury, the unforgettable 'Unvincible' season and the departure of one of my Great footballers of all times; Dennis Bergkamp. All those matches brought up and commented by Pepe Mantilla were really enjoyable. Now it was the time for this experienced man to bring us what was supposed to be a spectacular game. Those Good Old Days.
Returning to the game began with the same pace as last week's, and also with the introduction of Robin van Persie in the starting eleven. The pace between the first twenty five minutes of the game was tranquil and slow, with no initiative on the away side. Cesc began to move the ball around the wings, thus creating at least movement between the lines. In this time it was clear that Alex Hleb is not in his best shape. Since Wenger lost Rosicky due to a long and awkward injury, Diaby performed impressively in the left side. Hleb has been seen in three positions through his years at Arsenal; both flanks and as a link, usually helping Adebayor. One of the most technically rich players at Arsenal has not been able to shine in his tremendous capacity of assistance. It is a shame that unfocused players spread insecurity. That is why Gaël Clichy has not been able to push in than side as usual. The home side was passive. And it was due to a throw in distraction on Adebayor and Hleb that lead to the lead by Jeremie Aliadiere. The team was sleeping. Apparently on offside, Aliadiere convert a cross from the right and left Almunia and the two center backs staring dumbly at the ball. His celebration was a shock. He was in the institution since fourteen. The crowd at the Grove really pissed when he was waving on his goal. Following the goal the team entered in the common desperation that this situations produce. Van Persie had a clear chance and showed his arrhythmic situation. Cesc, who was organizing the team, became shy and 'hid'. Boro grow on confidence and began to push on the sides, specially with Stewart Downing in counter-attacks. At the final part of the first half the Arsenal, like in every game of the season (and previous), overwhelmed the away box. Middlesbrough showed a good tactical work on defense. The game began to take the shape thanks to the referee which made terrible decision that affected the game.
The second half was more of the same, Arsenal attacking while Boro defending effectively. The Gunners became more and more desperate, trying to put every ball in the box. The game follow the leitmotiv of an Arsenal game. It was at 61', with the substitutions, that the game became a litle clearer. Impressively Eboué, who has not got the best seasons, was one of the best players, among Flamini and Bendtner. The subs, Bendtner supportive as always and Theo in a daring situation, diluted the away side physical presence. Cesc missed a golden opportunity when his header hit the woodwork. At 71' all the eleven players of Middlesbrough were in its side of the pitch. The team was unclearingly pushing towards the away box. The equalizer came in a corner at 86'. The header by Kolo Touré was deflected by a Boro defender, which Schwarzer could not see. Immediately after the joy that unleashed the late equalizer, Gaël Clichy fell to the ground after a horrible Mido tackle. Whether Mido watch or not the ball this injury seemed even worst than Eduardo's. The hit of the cleats in his heads produced external bleeding, which completely alarmed the stadium. Post-match reports that there is nothing wrong beyond a very big hit and a couple of stitches. Thus the ending became even more dramatic after the sent off of the Egyptian. The home side became desperate on getting the lead. The ricochet situation that Bendtner finished with a reluctant shot was purely cardiac. Four minutes were placed for injury time, but the referee ended it at 3:54, just before a corner kick that could have changed the history. It was really disappointing although it is not the referee but the players.

México v. Guatemala 1-2 14/Mar/08

As a Joyce text (off course, in the less form talent and experience) a pure fragment and un-claused version of my review will be given this time, due to the vertigo of the match. As an experiment this will be the first live match review, as Beckett on "Waiting for Godot" I shall experiment with different variations of style, not stuck in the post review style. Right now, in the 13', things are dazed with different aspects developing, eventually Guatemalan defense is holding while Mexican offensive is not being as effective as it would be. Certainly all the hopes are put in Sergio Ávila and César Villaluz (mine personally on Édgar Andrade).

The game started as usual with the youngster Castillo showing his talent early in the 7'. Castillo goal was due to the Guatemalan bad defending, on 8'.

Certainly Mexican team has found the lead, not just through game but rather luck.

Lazy Mexican side on covering and almost everything. Reluctant Guatemala on 22'.
Esqueda finishing on 26' proved what could be a excellent and cruising advantage to the national side. His finishing lacked almost everything. He is not a first division player, lets face it, but rather a villian in the box.
At 30' great gaps between the defined lines.

Unclear game on 36'. Guatemalan side still expectating. Mexican side still reluctant.
Goal 40' by Guatemala, Awful Mexican defense.
Guatemala goal in 66', awful marking, defeat in defense, Memo Ochoa as main responsible.
At 70' defined game, bad Mexico. Undefined gamestyle. Andrade in a shadowy pace.

Tide turning in the final minutes of the game Guatemala is eager to take the lead.
Second half, Andrade for Velarde. Same change on lines as the game before.
A very good start by Mexico.
Mexican crisis at 80'. Hilarious way of loosing against a clumsy side.
Really concerned about the way of playing and little chances of gaining a place at Olympics.

Immediately after the game the now popular "Futbol Picante" ESPN Mexican football program, showed a relentless critic on the game. I keep the Carlos Albert image with a tape in his mouth. Relentless.

I am very happy to say that one of my best friends, Rodrigo, has created his blog, that resume all AC Milan games and many relevant footballistical events. I am so glad that one of the few persons that has a control of football acknowledgment not just in contemporaneous events, but in classical and tangent. He is one of the few persons I could really speak of football, European and Mexican, and I totally trust in his objective judgments that not just derive from the current Milan form, but through the Spanish and German football, with one of his main influences in ESPN's Vitto de Palma blogs. I encourage him and totally support him on his newest adventure through the net, and wish him, the best of bests. READ HIM!

México v. Canada 1-1 12/Mar/08

The Olympic venture begins and (supposedly) no jokes or excuses should be made. It is the pure and undoubtful taste of victory that Mexican fans want.
To begin the line-up was very simplistic and pragmatic, as in all Sanchez's teams. The game was in a particular hurry after the early Canadian chance at 3'. Ochoa and the complete defense were ravaged by the lucky North Americans' number '10'. The dismal defense saw no order or even training experienced. This disorganization was showed right from the beginning, due to a lack of leadership. "Pato" Araujo has not afforded it, due to Mr. Sanchez's demands. I do not agree of Ochoa as Captain. There is no doubt about his experience but when the experience is needed forty or fifty meters across the field, Mr. Sanchez lacks intelligence. Canada's strategy, right from the beginning, was that a lot of long balls and counter-attacks should take place, instead of what the Mexican side was 'trying' to make. In the first stages of the match Canada seemed more possessive and were developing a dynamic game style. Edgar Castillo was one of the sole players who made the attempt of breaking through in the game, among with Sergio Ávila and Villaluz. At the 21' the penalty was clear, and later capitalized by Landín. After that the Mexican side had to rely completely on the genius of Ávila and Villaluz. Sergio "Gaucho" Ávila, has had a terrific development at the never ending prodigy making basics of Chivas. He has rhythm, intelligence, and depth.
Following Canada expansion and Mexico control the game entered in a passive and normal rhythm. Villauz was certainly the man of the match swaying between midfield towards the upper part. In the second half the Canadian team was completely overwhelmed and tired. The Mexican team dominated through the whole second period. As far it has been the best U-23 game. Ávila and Castillo deserved a big applause being the only two payers conscious of the qualification. Landín red card was purely childish and stupid. He had an unmeasured intention. After the Canada expulsion the game completely reached the equilibrium. Sergio Ávila had a clear chance at 83' while Andrade had a chance at 86'. Mexico indeed deserved the win, but at the cost is waiting for the next game to cement main topics as attack and midfield. Zamora did really impressed me, he is a technical Flamini, a complete distributor such as Owen Hargreaves. Edgar Andrade resembles both positional and technically to the mature 'Zizou', and Pablo Barrera is always in the mood of being like Cristiano Ronaldo.
It is truly concerning that the team's offensive force it is diminished not just by untalented players such as Esqueda but also with undefined positions like Andrade's. It will be difficult that the team improves with the time. If the team does not clarify the game style, it could be very difficult to achieve the first place in the qualifier and exaggerating, the tournament.
Certainly the Cuban situation regarding the players that leave the concentration is shameful. It does not help the spectacle in any way, but politics and football are two completely different things, so do not mess with things that are already messy.

Wigan v. Arsenal 0-0 (9/Mar/08)

A stressful match visiting Wigan at Saturday saw the Gunners fall from grace after the wonderful clash against the Lombardians. The goalless match was one of the most loosest and reluctant of appearances the London side has made, since the early and only defeat at Middlesbrough. Title hopes dilute when Arsenal concedes points, one here and one there have made six points total. Six points that now are crucial. Six points that separate European aspirations from teams, six points that make a club sank in the relegation. Certainly if United wins points the struggle will get to the final ending: April clash in Manchester. I hope the title is decided before it, certainly in our possession.
Regarding the game there were some performances that nearly reached the embarrassment,a deserved First or Second Division gameplay. I will continue with this later in the review. The line-up was considerably modified: this due to a "hangover" effect on Tuesday's match. The game started as usual, even creating a clear chance which Adebayor could not finish, in 1'. The so-called release of Cesc, a major issue which I have mentioned in several occasions, was right from the beginning. Theoretically the pressure in midfield was supposed to be the job of Gilberto while Flamini could help with the cover of positions such as Sagna's or Clichy's. Cesc worked as a 'conservative link', not like the typical South American link such as Matías Fernández, Kaká, Riquelme and even Giovanni in his good old U-17 days. This is a facet of his leadership, which this season has bloomed. This three man midfield left the team without a striking capability in side, thus not getting the tandem efficiency of the common team. The defense was completely doubtful throughout the first and part of the second period of the game. By 22' it was clear that Arsenal lacked leadership, depth and finishing. Clichy was overrun by Luis Antonio Valencia. The Ecuatorian drive him made all the game, putting the worst of the defender in the match. This position led the Arsenal completely unbalanced, whereas the introduction of Gilberto Silva or the bad form of Alex Hleb it was certain that the home side was not doing well in any way. Gilberto Silva has had the worst season since his arrival in London. Quoted by Juan Manuel Pons it is clearly that Arsene has found the balance in midfield with Mathieu Flamini. Gilberto has always been to passive. He has physically strength but lacks the leadership of "Flatusso", he also lost his mind when things are not doing well. His contribution towards the functioning of the team were nearly none. This supposed contribution in control of the midfield, as quoted earlier, was bad.
Starting the second half two chances were created in the first five minutes. Chris Kirkland was a strong factor, decisive in my opinion. The sides were a constant problem, specially the left, with a troubled Clichy and an anxious Sagna. Flamini became more than angry to see the childish booking of Gilberto. The Frenchman bore the weight of the whole team when Cesc was lost in his 'new' position. Almunia did a couple of saves reaching the 63'. The substitutions did pumped the team the stamina needed but for a slight period of time. Touré played in the right midfield, contributing in a sense more push than Eboué in that position. Gallas injury was a stroke on moral, although it was a simple bruise it appeared to be more than that. Reaching the final minutes of the match the team searched the lead desperately, like the previous season. Cesc chance at 89' and the final 93' corner were two options dismissed.
The way the team played was horrible and outnumbered in many ways by infantile flaws of both defense and offense.
The FA Cup match saw the timid and discrete Barnsley against the Chelsea FC. The Home side made what it seemed impossible; defeating a EPL team against a Championship team . The "Tykes" concreted the dream of any team in a division that is not the first. It was a very impressive match, which saw the Yorkshire club completely in their box while Chelsea superstars were punching every time they had the ball. Certainly luck was on their side, because many of the chances of the Londoners were little from crossing the goal-line. After defeating Liverpool it could not seem so good than winning the title. It would be a very positive thing towards the spectacle, and a lesson for football and life; everything can be done.
I am totally thrilled by the early draw of UCL quarterfinals earlier today. It was obvious that an English v. English match will take place. But Liverpool was totally unexpected, and then is London rivals Chelsea or Fenerbache, and in the final (if we reach, totally confident we will) is Man Utd or AS Roma, Barca or Schalke. A dream came true to face northerns and a disaster if we face Barca in the final. A very awful thing with the 'Unamable' with first protagonist. But bring 'em on. This is the list of games:

Quarter-Finals:
Arsenal v Liverpool
Roma v Manchester United
Schalke v Barcelona
Fenerbahce v Chelsea

Semi-Finals:
Arsenal or Liverpool v Fenerbahce or Chelsea
Schalke or Barcelona v Roma or Manchester United

AC Milan v. Arsenal 0-2 4/Mar/08

I really can not stand my joy due to today's match. The London side really made things possible, denied the early speculation about title ending and finally showed what they are made of. Certainly the team has grown confident with this win and of course, we can think of two major titles now. The away team showed a strong behavior, confidence and above all the wish to win. That is the difference between winners and losers. The ability to stand in what it was a tough match (the toughest of the season) and overcome major distractions is the main aim of this team, which is different from previous seasons. I made a 'bet' earlier in the season. I am certain, completely sure, that the team will win a title if not both. I know that the toughest battles are yet to come but this one was certainly against Arsenal's ghost, the phantom of despair since shaky times at the beginning of the season. I am very excited, by the new prospect of 'overcoming' teams. The Italian side appeared to be a difficult team, worth of championship, and although they fought relentlessly. They deserve all my respect for being such a professional side, thus contributing to the spectacle of our dear Football. Beating the current champions was not an easy task. Thus I am preparing my papers and appointments at US Embassy, I will travel to Russia even though Arsenal does not reach the final. My plan was that if the club reached the FA Cup final I could get my ticket to both the final in Wembley and in midweek going to Moscow to the other final, return for celebrations to London and get Mexico by Sunday. This plan was designed in the most positive ways and although I was sure about FA Cup final I think that the prospect of Russia is delighting. Do not listen to me if Arsenal gets eliminated. I am very positive about titles this season.
The game was overloaded by pre-match comments about different sources, mainly from analysts that proposed the Londoners strategy. The clash against Villa on Saturday, and the fact of Eduardo's injury were the main reasons the analysts viewed the London side crushed.
Formally in the game, the line up was a leitmotiv of previous seasons in European journey. Since the times of Dennis Bergkamp and Ian Wright through the "Unnamable", Arsene has a great tradition of putting five-men midfield on European clashes. It was disturbing to see one striker. The point was that the Arsenal was the team supposed to search the scoreline and apparently they would not want it. But display in the game was completely different. All the game was supposed to pass through the prodigious boots of playmaker Fabregas, while the control and distribution of the attack was entirely relied in Hleb. The also prodigious Mathieu Flamini had a stunning task: to stop Kaká creating spaces and Pato exploiting them. The game started the same way as the previous leg, but with the difference that the away side adapted almost immediately to the hostile pitch. Pirlo showed some approaches providing Kaká some walls, and a long pass to Pato, who immediately showed his previous related conditions, swaying between four defenders before loosing possession. Milan sieged Arsenal getting the 8', showing some flaws in the London defense. Mathieu Flamini task was very difficult , he was quite nervous in relation of marking. The siege continued for a few minutes wile the childish pressure of the Noth Londoners did not affect the overwhelming ministry Milan was performing. Both teams had approaches with Pato, "Pippo" Inzaghi and Diaby on the other hand. The offensive part of the Milan proved to be very dangerous in the first 20 minutes of the match. Eventually Kaká and Pato were too many to Mathieu who really "halved" himself to cover the two Brazilians. His game was as critical as Fábregas. In some occasions any of these Brazilians escaped the ferocious mark of the number 16, making some worry on the manager. Right in the middle of the first half, and throughout the game, the possession rose and swayed being a game of moments. Having Adebayor a clear chance at 27'. At that particular time the chants from our brave supporters that made the great travel were beginning to shadow the Italian ones. Then the shot of Cesc hit the woodwork, a warning of what he was later going to achieve. Mario Kempes pointed clearly the way Adebayor was playing against the four defenders when the offensive Londoners could not reach the conversion-reconversion. The game seemed partially equaled as the Villa on Saturday due to the changing environments in offensive. The game was reaching a critical point and was far than good.
In the opening of the second phase the pace did not diminished and the chances were equally created by both sides, although the Milan squad was a little vanished by the overwhelming attacking position from the sides, especially from Clichy's. Senderos had a perfect chance which was saved by Kalac, with a tremendous luck. The Arsenal FC "abused" possession, in cases putting the 11 away players in the final quarter of the pitch. Eboué created a very good chance at 50´. The turning of the game was already beginning, as the first fifteen minutes of overwhelming activity ended, the match slowed. The referee was nervous, conceding several tackles of both sides wrongly. This was evident on Gattusso's clash at 60'. At this time of the game Ceac and Flamini started to shine in a incomparable way. Cesc was already awarded by Fernando Palomo as the man of the match but the best was yet to come. Kaká began to fade as well as Pato, whose none physical presence vanished. Palomo also quoted about the fights at Arsenal: Adebayor-Bendtner and Lehmann-Almunia. The substitution of Eboué by Theo was a good move, which later turned out perfect. This is what makes me mad about this youngster; he can shine and play twenty minutes like a complete 'crack' or vanish between the lines and defenders. Arsenal at this stage showed a better football in all aspects. The Italians were already established in the 'catenaccio' when Pato chance at 19´passed.
Then the goal came. Few moments in his carer Cesc has played so well to deserve the appraisal of the whole team, stadium, press and fans. The goal was purely from the decision of winning. He wanted to win and that was the result of a terrificly executed shot, which summarized and epitomized his carer. His strike was perfect finding the opposite corner of the defending post by the keeper. His will was purely from his heart. A tremendous goal, he was eager to make. Cesc has evolved from the shy midfielder to the organizing behemoth monster, providing everything everytime.
At 93' young Theo after a cross evaded the defense and intelligently crossed the ball to get Adebayor's first goal in European competitions. It was a pure emotive ending. Both sides struggled and obviously the one that wanted to win won. A just match full of emotions and players. Maldini's "exit" from European football seems inevitable. I am not sure if Milan can get to qualifiers this season and obviously he will not retire since the people want to see him playing. He was one of the players who really fought the whole game.
Arsenal is facing each time toughest tests and inevitably will reach the point of struggling against the best of the best. I hope it is not United or Roma next stage but it is something for sure: this team is amongst the two main contenders and will fight to the end.

Rhetorical questions

I have been always delighted with rhetorical questions. Here a beautiful example of how it should be done. One is actually a whole poem; I made a clumsy essay about it yesterday. Anyway the pure substance here:

When you say it's gonna happen "now"
Well, when exactly do you mean ?
See I've already waited too long
And all my hope is gone

"How Soon is Now" in Hatful of Hollow of The Smiths


Punctured bicycle
On a hillside desolate
Will nature make a man of me yet ?

"This Charming Man" in Hatful of Hollow of The Smiths



Why should I blame her that she filled my days
With misery, or that she would of late
Have taught to ignorant men most violent ways,
Or hurled the little streets upon the great,
Had they but courage equal to desire?
What could have made her peaceful with a mind
That nobleness made simple as a fire,
With beauty like a tightened bow, a kind
That is not natural in an age like this,
Being high and solitary and most stern?
Why, what could she have done, being what she is?
Was there another Troy for her to burn?

"No Second Troy" in De Hardey a Heaney. Poesía Inglesa del Siglo XX. Ed. Eva Cruz Yañez. UNAM: México. 2003.

México v. Finland 0-0 6/Mar/0

Yesterday's game was the anagnorisis moment for me. For years and years I have been relentlessly critical about Mexican football and above all Mexican style, or the lack of it. I still remember the last World Cup's knockout stage when we were pulled off by arch-rivals Argentina. I was really pissed, sad and furious. "Otra vez" was the choir in the streets after the defeat. But yesterday I reached the point of laughs. The "talented" Mexican side was reluctant on making goals. As simple as that. Today's declarations of Mr. Sanchez made me laugh at the point of Snatch: "We certainly have problems in definition, We CAN'T make goals". Well eventually Mr. Sanchez, even the dumbest or distracted can notice that. And they said that he studied a bachelor. As George would said: "A las pruebas me remito".
Regarding the game, there were two main points at the beginning of the match. The first was the state of the pitch. Eventually, Mother Nature can not be controlled or even diagnosed, thus the 'snowy' state of the pitch full of imperfections was a factor. The excellent work of the staff at the stadium made possible the game, which in some Mexican media was already quoted as 'suspended'. The second point, which is even more important is the mysterious "away" side. Finland "U-23" is unknown, not just by me but for nany people who are not obviously Finnish. TVC Sports made an excellent choice in buying the rights from Mexican U-23, pre-pre and pre-Olympic tournament. Young and talented broadcasters from the ranks of ESPN's Latin America, Mexican all of them, such as Gerardo Vélazquez, have a notion of the current football panorama worldwide. Finnish football was even researched by Velázquez and the fact that the "U-23" was not the U-23, made his comment a very good one throughout the game. The comic tone of his comments, never leaving objectiveness, about the cold and the "never-seen-snow-by-mexicans" was regarding the boredom of a game in times. So the point was that the Mexican youngsters challenged a mixture of Senior and Young Scandinavian players. This match was the last attempt to reach the 'right functioning' of the team. Obviously this was not going to happen in ninety minutes, even with Javier Alarcón's positive issues towards the national side.
The Finnish defense, including the veteran goalkeeper, did a good game stopping the lonesome childish attempts of Mexican playmakers César Villaluz and Pablo Barrera. This two youngsters featured in the last U-20 championship in Canada being the most talented and respectful players in the whole squad. This two "midfielder-forwards" have shone the past two seasons in their respective teams, impressing more than one European top flight clubs. But even the impressive talent of these youngsters and benched Edgar Andrade can not compose the finishing form of the side. Santiago Fernández showed why he was literally thrown of FC Barcelona and América respectively. While Enrique Esqueda showed not just his lack of technique and talent but of willing and sacrifice towards the team. Luis Ángel Landín is a good forward, that carries the weight of all the criticizing of Mexican media. Although Mexican media make a fuss of his playing I consider him the next '9' in the Mexican team. He is truly talented, showing that in his current club. He has provided glimpses of brilliancy in both teams but he needs to get the ball in the back of the net often in order to secure his reliability and talent proved.
Mexican defense was among the fewer rescuable things in the match, especially Edgar Castillo and Julio Domínguez. Edgar Castillo, as David Medrano quoted has the quality of Andrés Guardado. He is a good prospect that can reach unlimited heights if he is carried well in Santos.
The summary of the game was the ineffective Mexican side mixed with the lack of game also from the Finnish team. There were so many relevant things such as the snow and people throwing things to Mr. Sanchez, than the current game. It was a match to miss and a waste of time. I hope the youngsters can improve in the pre-Olympic stage, that I Will comment also.
I found in my Number One trusted football update site this intriguing article hope you enjoy it. Here it is. I keep the final part as a memory, hahaha: "Football, women, booze and food all in one column, what more can you ask for?".

Football redentors

If there is any proof that the current football world is not decaying, is this pair of talented Latin American youngsters who have found the right way into the path to glory. The quality of Robinho this season has showed a tremendous maturity, in cases being the support that his team needs. His marvelous style as well as his dominion of the ball is enhaced by his vision and solidarity.
The other prodigy is a 'wonder-boy'. Sergio Agüero style is closer than any other player to Joppie's. His touch, dribble and his definition is a trademark.
This two players have really caught my eye this season and are among the best right now.
I hope it is not a matter of peaks, is it Adrian Mutu?

Eduardo da Silva on "Récord"

Mexican popular daily sport publication "Récord published in the weekly supplement "Imágenes" a photo courtesy of Getty Images, of the moment in which Martyn Taylor crashed Eduardo da Silva. The pictures are horrible and clear, almost in a desire of seeing the suffering of the player. The High-Resolution image, neat, shows the fibula of the Croatian in the moment of fracture, with the cleats of Martyn Taylor still in his foot. In the background the picture of the desperate Cesc is a highly dramatical showdown. I am totally shocked and angry about the publication of this picture. there is no shame within the publishers as the suffering of a player. It is a total act of stupidity based in the "extreme" experiences sports can offer. Is a lack of professionalism and a disrespectful motion against what all the world and common sense dictates. I will send a letter commenting on this shameful event. This can not be seen, even with kids at home.

México U-23 Crisis

Mexican football has experienced in recent weeks several crisis, the most important taking place in the pre-pre-Olympic preparation tournament. The national side has faced poor quality young sides, with the threat level maximum as Chile. Yesterday's game against Australia showed the lack of chemistry and leadership the manager has. It is a fact that the manager does not make a team work, but history betrays Hugo Sanchez's Teams. It is also a true fact that all Mr. Sanchez's teams fail to make an impression in all the ways.
This current generation of youngsters is the second most brilliant the Mexican football has provided (thanks to Jesús Martínez)with players in Europe's top flight teams, as well as national prospects. The team which mayor players feature Edgar Andráde, César Villaluz, Guillermo Ochoa and 'Pato' Araujo, has not found the balance and the form of an optimum club. This potential can not be used if the right formation or tactic is not fully developed.
I think is a shame that such talented generation of players are wasted in the hands of a 'hijacker'. I will comment further in the development of the games and the Pre-Olympic tournament.

Arsenal v. Aston Villa 1-1 (1/Mar/08)

A miraculous tie against the other Birgmingham team gave the London side the lead on the title race again, even though Man Utd had won 3-0 against another London side, Fulham. The match seemed paired due to the good work of Martin O'Neill. The young northern side had in its lines players of the quality of John Carew, as well as English youngsters Luke Young, Gabriel Agbonlahor and Scott Carson, on loan. All of these players resulted quite a challenge for the home team, each making enormous contributions to the late tie.
The mood of the game was undoubtedly set on the injury of Eduardo, earlier commented in this blog. Many messages in the stands and even in the electronic publicity showed the support of the Club and Fans towards him.
The game started quite clean and calmed. The new additions to the squad were Abou Diaby and Theo Walcott, who both made a quite impressive beginning, but in the case of Walcott fading after. The first approach towards goal was made by the latter. The Gunners were in complete dominion and possession, and were creating opportunities, all unclear. The good thing was the finishing of the playings. The first great danger option for the visiting side was the clash of Agbonlahor and Gallas. The Frenchman did an excellent save, while the English youngster
was already making his movement to shot. The game, at 21', was more balanced with approaches by Villa mainly on the flanks. This was seen when Young did the cross after an unsettled Arsenal defense, that made Phillippe Senderos hesitate and putting the ball in the wrong back of the net. Certainly he was very upset about it, trying to mend his error making advances forward every time possible. On the other hand Agbonlahor made tremendous efforts, showing the talent that has earned him a call in the senior squad. On this attempts by Young, Carew, and
the previously mentioned Englishman unbalanced the sides of the home side. The London side was target of many "sieges" by the Birmingham side. After a natural period of overwhelming pressure by the Gunners, the northern side applied the conversion-reconversion tactic previously postedon this blog. Although O'Neill was forced to make substitutions due to injuries their game style did not diminished but slowed down. In the final minutes of the first half Villa intensified their attacks reaching thrice the goal, although Almunia was very careful not conceding any restrictions.
For the broadcast of the game, I have previously mentioned the emotive and entertaining that a match narrated by Juan Manuel Pons can be. But the fact that their 'footballistical vocabulary' extends to certain amounts of words that tend to repeat talks very bad a bout them. The adjective "prolijo" [tidy, neat, fastidious, prolix, tedious] was used at least five to seven times in a space of fifteen minutes. And what are Thesaurus for?
Second half was purely electric, with both sides struggling to take advantage. The Londoners were becoming quite desperate, and as the previous season syndrome, they began to hesitate and the crosses towards the goal became more evident when Sagna or Clichy made any attempts to reach the final line. The overuse of tandems and walls by Diaby and Hleb were a sign of the unclearness of the match by the Londoners. The substitutions implied a clear tactical change in the squad performance and made Theo sway on the wing, again.Since his attempts in the first half he clearly faded, like many games this season. The home side showed a very balanced positioning on Villa counterattacks. Nicklas 'Robosaur' Bendtner was what Adebayor were not in this match. He was fully compromised in helping defense and midfield, supporting the sides and showing his true talent as a 'complete' forward. Adebayor showed the exhaust of 19 goals. He was different from another matches, maybe more focused on Tuesday's game. The changes involved the already common releasing of Cesc. This movement proved Villa's defenses, that were perfect in the final third part of the pitch. The away defense was really involved and did not made a mistake, until the final minutes. Concerning the Garreth Barry's fowl on Denilson the decision was very clumsy, a red card was obvious. The crowd in the stands completely shocked, due to the previous injury of Eduardo, and it was an imprudent clash. The final minutes were the result of the desperate home side trying to get the equalizer. This pressure was showed in the series of corner kicks, five, that lead to the late equalizer. The cross by Clichy was headed by Adebayor towards 'Robosaur' Bendtner who killed the game, nearly reaching the 94'. It was deserved, although many complains on not getting the ball right in the back are in the air. Bendtner has the instinct of a true '9'. In the right place at the right time. A nerve-ending match showed that the Gunners did have their minds in San Siro for hext Tuesday.
The good news is that Arsene can count on Van Persie and Rosicky after lengthy spells. David Young defined in a master way the situation of the Dutchman; irritating. I have to say that not seeing such a delighting talent that could help the team progress is very stressful. We will see if he features in Tuesday's bench.
On the Carling Cup Final I have to say that Tottenham deserved the title, due to the work of Juande Ramos. It was a thrilling game, both sides struggled for the superiority, and the injury time definition was delightful. Of course it will be the only silverware that the London side will get for at least a cople of season, if not more, so they better enjoy their little cup meantime top flight teams struggle to earn "Continental" silverware.
The quote of the week (in a 'Toño' Moreno style) is Arsene Wenger's. Nothing more to add.:
"on the reported 'Eduardo' chants by Villa fans ...
'You expect better from people who come to football stadiums. It looks that intelligence and stupidity can have no limits. Unfortunately stupidity has won.'" Here the quote.