EURO 2008 Group C Day 3 8/Jun/08

Romania v. France 0-0
The opening match for the so called "Group of Death" was boring. And boring in all the extension of the word. I thought France could surprise me (not Domenech) of course but they did not. First the sidelines through injuries, hit the French side with their two most prominent figure; the old "Paddy" Vieira, and the "Unnamable". This absences left no other choice to put another ex-Gunner Anelka with the first-choice striker Benzema. The first minutes of the match were a relishing one-way traffic by the French attack. The right side distinguished with Ribery swaying from the lateral towards the right midfield with the handicap of Willy Sagnol. The Romanian center back marked well with the aid of an unideal French attack close to the 11'. Both youngsters Benzema and Ribery were gravely misunderstood due to the bad functioning of the "visiting" side. The eastern team was profoundly patient throughout the match especially in the beginning of both parts of the game. The shy attempts by Niculae and Mutu were really the common place of a team who did not want to break through. All Romanian crosses were ended in attempts due to the lack of experience in Gallas, but hopefully for the French Thuram was there. The resume of this boring match was the struggling sides in possession and impression. The only thing savable from the Frech side were the attempts by Ribery and Sganol, an a couple of shy entrances by Benzema. Mutu shone in absence, as well as Chivu. The final 15 minutes of the first half were much of the same, poor chances deflected with little or none resilance. The only relevant thing in the Romanian side was the three bookies in 35 minutes!

The following half was a little more enjoying rather obnoxious. The French came out of the tunnel with the idea of touching the ball while the Romanians, guess what? Defended patiently! The game was turning so boring that even the commentators began to talk about Mexican football. Imagine how boring! Another thing that interested me, apart from the publicity was the intrusion of Gomis. The French forward stunned everyone with his inclusion in the squad, when everybody expected the talented Hatem Ben Harfa instead. Anyway the forward offered little until the good thing arrived.
Anyone who has read my blog knows my attraction for the gamestyle of Samir Nasri. I watched every game he played for Marseille this season, and I was expecting him spice things a little, which indeed he did. So hence forth in the EURO 08 I will inaugurate the NASRI WATCH. Obviously I will commend a part of the games that France plays to the development of the new reinforcement of the Arsenal FC this season. His entry in the game was in the context of a pulling but reluctant Romanian side, just after a qide shot from Chivu at 78'. Nasri performed the usual good moves as in Marseille; his statics, balls involved 12 and complete passes 11, crosses 2. He made some good walls and complemented the little midfield remaining in the French side. His distribution of the ball and vision was present but it was too little to late for him to show his talent, thus he did not contribute to the French cause. The conclusion should be, for France to get a new manager, forget about the EURO and find the next generation. For Romania would be to show a far enough decorous style against Italy especially to Mutu.





Holland v. Italy 3-0

The match that was expected throughout the world arrived after the dull game of France. Much had been said about the starting XI from the Dutch side; especially the transition of the legendary 4-3-3 to the 4-2-3-1. I will comment this later on and even a whole post to the subject, which is matter especially conducted in this "modern" football days. The game started with a liberal Catenaccio by the Italian side, with too much touching rather than holding. Far as 20' Italy slowed the pace and the glimpses of the Dutch midfield were beginning to appear. A couple of free kicks by both sides went wide at 25'. The Italian full-back was performing a good game until the Dutch goal arrived. This goal stunned everyone, from common people to referees, from commentators to the scorer himself. Everybody thought about the offside but then the player outside the field was in play, supposedly. This link should be clearing at least a little the confusion that Ruud intrude. Immediately after Sneijder scored a goal that was a true reminder of the power of the 'Oranje'. Rafael van der Vaart initiated a counter towards Ruud who crossed the ball towards Kuyt who lowered the ball with a nice header to find Sneijder with a stunning definition, that make everybody remember the Good Old days of the 70's Netherlands. In the remaining minutes of the half Italy was completely confused, at 38'. The Dutch side had the dominion in the entire sense of the world.

The ten minutes following the beginning of the remaining half were very passive of Italy, even with good wide attempts by Zambrotta. Solid defending was displayed by the Dutch. Sneijder was beginning to take an impressive part of the gameplay Holland was creating. Italy exchanged the control of the ball with Holland after a couple of wide chances by Del Piero at 66'. The fierce attacks of Italy at 70' contrasted with the solid defending of the Dutch side which, through Pirlo was achieving at least a chance to earn a goal. But the 'Oranje' was pure touch and nothing, even Catenaccio can beat the touch of the perfect technique of the few talented. After some woodwork and wide shots the Dutch side ended the match at 78' with a ruthless counterattack that ended van Bronkchorst with a beautiful header. At 81' Afellay made a tremendous play from the right that hit the woodwork barely. The final score epitomized the game, although the Italian side deserved the goal.

EURO 2008 Group B Day 2 8/Jun/08

Austria v. Croatia 0-1
The Croatian side promised so much from the beginning of the tournament that the overall balance of the team as a team was neglected in favor of the little starlets such a as Modric. The game started with a penalty kick and right from the 4' Modric put the Croatians on top. It appeared a match to be won clearly by the Croatians but the home side loyally struggled the entire match, giving us the best game in moths, so far. The game leveled at 20' with the Austrians attempting to reach the box. The match swayed relentlessly from one end to the other. We found in one minute Austria in a full attacking capacity and in the next moment a home side defending by any means possible. At 33' it was clear that the Croatians still had the pace in their hands with the ability of fasten or slowed it at any moment. But the point was that none of the midfielders of Croatia made correct choices. This lack of game in the midfield gave the advantages that the hosts will have in the second period.

The equalizer seemed fair in a match that was far from grace even on both sides. As early as the 56' Austria tried to find the equalizer relentlessly. Several players like Niko Krankjar and Modric were completely lost. Luca is the engine of the team, and he proved his condition of Central midfielder in the sense of speeding the game. But if we remember, speeding a game is not a resource for loosing pressure, and that was the mistake by the Croatians. The visiting side recovered the ball in the 67' but this ease on pressure was regained and then was when all the attacks became predictable; vertical crosses or crosses from the sides. The push was so intense by the 75' that the equalizer was close. The drive by the home side was inevitable. The problem was the finish (i.e. Arsenal FC). The game was this; a promising start by the eastern side that diminished in time ending in a disappointing finish. The referee stand out due to his polemic decisions but it was the lack of final touch by the Austrians that ended abruptly their hopes for future knock-out stage contendants. The final free kick epitomized the match; pure effort but no talent.




Germany v. Poland 2-0
Of course that the match that raised expectation due to the media coverage was my first title-contender team Germany (second Portugal, Holland third and Spain performing a very decorous show). The starting XI by the Bavarians was clearly offensive but with one problem that I will comment later; Lukas Podolski. Of course it was not a problem in the end due to his two goals and leading scorer of the tournament but certainly out in trouble Marcel Jansen. I will paraphrase Eduardo Biscayart on this topic. He said that the German midfield was "fake". Fake in the sense of belonging positions, which again has to do with Dissapearing in the Pitch. However Clemens Fritz is not a truly Left midfielder and neither Ballack as a central role and even less Frings. This problem began taking shape before the goal. Lukas Podolski could not find his form in the left side, thus leading to Jansen in lateral role, laving spaces which the Polish attacks wasted, actually. The goal arrived at 20' from an onside pass from Klose. The defense played bad the offside trap leading to the eventual lead. Germany played calmly after the goal, even though the Polish side pushed strongly at 35'. By the time the half time whistle was blowing the efforts by Poland were enough to equalize with the already troubled German midfield merely holding.

In the second half the match was balanced, again with the Polish side through Guerreiro. Then it appeared that the Polish attack was reaching the leveler when the counters by Germany were at hand, hence for some minutes we had a match that swayed from side to side. Bennhacker was keen on the progression of the game through touch. Bu that was not even enough for them to level the game. Boruc at least performed three definitive saves. Then the final punch to the opposition came with the goal from "Prinz" Poldi. The swing by Klose provided Poldi a perfect opportunity to volley the number 5, which eventually happened. From the second goal towards the end the German superiority overwhelmed the Polish capacity, which ended far from being on goal. Schweinsteiger produced little change, but it was the whole team, the group effort, who proved why title-contenders epithet should be removed instead of title-owners, although it is too early to diagnose a winner at the end of the month.

EURO 2008 Group A Day 1 7/Jun/08

Group A Day 1 7/Jun/08
Switzerland v. Czech Republic 0-1
Finally, the tournament we have all been waiting has arrived. UEFA Nations Championship. Many things have been says about the tournament, which are generalizing and even fearful for the history of football. Suddenly "experts" and "analyzers" arise from The Waste Land to give a "close insight" of the teams and players as well as the history of the tournament. Many people also, make judgments invariably their knowledge on football, especially Italian. Anyway the tournament started with a beautiful opening organizing. The motives for the show were the Alps and the snowish ambient of the Central European countries.
The build up for the match had been full of expectancy. What was supposed to do Switzerland with such an array of young promises (Vonhalanten, Senseros, Djourou) and an experience bacc up (Frei, Magnin, Zuberbhueler)? After the tragic missing of the Bench-Friend Rosicky the Czech side was relying on the few experienced players like Baros, Ujfalusi, Grygera and Koller. The match proved to be more heart than mind.
As early as 3' the home side had a chance conduct of Alexander Frei. The match began rapidly with a strong sense of play within the reach of the talented players. The home side earned several chances with the crossing to the box mainly finished by skipper Frei. It was actually a good game, with the Switzerland players pushing up the midfield, crating chances. The pace of the match was almost clean with the perfect eye of Rossetti ubicously in every clash. The unthinkable happened just at 45'. Alexander Frei suffered an injury after a clash with Grygera. My earliest prediction was an ACL damage with an extension of the Lateral Colateral left ligament of the left knee. Later reports indicated that it was just the previous one. He will miss the remaining part of the tournament, being a tough trouble to the home side. A thought for him, I understand you Alexander.

Ten minute after the break the Czechs surprised the audience scoring a goal through Sverkos at 56'. The game went on through a couple of shots by the visiting side. Then the match turned rather disdainfully. Switzerland's push was enough to earn a leveler, though the lucky Chelsea keeper remained in his already known form, avoiding any danger. Vonlanthen had several chances in front of goal, all missed, one which hit the woodwork.
The match finalized with the overestimated Czech side struggling against an opposition who were fierce in all ways. It can be said that the home side is eliminated. It will be tough for them to recover, although they have all the heart but the mind.
Regarding the coverage of the EURO, ESPN's Latin American signal rose above the high level they had. Every HD repetition was commented and the several analysis programs overwhelmed the choose of viewer, remaining this only.


Portugal v. Turkey 2-0
The next match in the first day of activities was the one commanded by CR7. I mean Portugal of course, but in the recent days the speculation of his departure from the Machester side has been so tremendously overwhelming that now two Portuguese sides are playing; Portugal and CR7. The remaining players to watch were Joao Moutinho, Volkan Demirel and Arda Turan, who did not play. The stadium was pletoric, worthy of an European Championship. Asides the perfect crowd and organization the Portuguese scheme was strangely offensive, relying on two common midfielders who actually are not defensive players. And again a very good effort by the Best player in the world went wide at 7'. The absence of a Portuguese left back was present throughout the match. The Turkish defense did a solid performance. This was a constant clash of styles, with a Turkish counterattack in every moment. Simao free kick went wide at 29' meanwhile a glimpse of a nervous Ronaldo came at 30'. The Portugal side rose in game while the Turkish remained uncertain and defending with an invisible Altintop on the right back. Interesting things happened towards the end of the first half (38'): a free kick by Ronaldo hit the woodwork on a fine save by Demirel. Again Cristiano at 40' shot wide while the pace of Deco contrasted enormously with Petit's.

Right from the beginning of the second period, Portugal pushed up in an effort to gain the lead. As early at 50' the woodwork trembled after a shot from Nuno Gomes. Joao Moutinho took a chance at 5´' when the Portuguese pushed incessantly against a well organized Turkish side. This pressure was not holded by the Turks when the goal arrived at 61' product of an incursion by Pepe in the opposition box. A fine wall next to a deflected shot were the result for a good goal, that break the game. Portuguese pressure did not give for a moment when at 63' Nuno Gomes hit the woodwork after another Cristiano cross. The Turkish side gained possession in the natural dynamics of a game and missed a chance at 89', that could end the aspirations of Portugal at once. the second goal was a beautiful piece of play, followed by a Moutinhos perfect control and passing towards Meireles who came out of the bech to dilapidate Turkish hopes. It seem rather difficult for the Turkish side to face a clearer chance of stepping towards the next round while Switerland in my opinion, will not recover from the blow of loosing their captain.

"My Heart aches..."

For all the people who care and the ones who do not...
Today as I was getting up in the early morning, I thought everything would turn just fine, after a couple of lunatics played Star Fox in my wretched knee. Anyway, I got up to watch the EURO as every important match in the football calendar. But I could not stand. I was thinking about Cesc, his talent and age. About Agüero, his talent and age, and Ramsey (new Arsenal signing) his talent and his girlfriend. So I was thinking about the things I do now since I am turning twenty next month. I have done nothing. I could, in some ways, be a first team choice in the most corrupt team in Mexico. But I am lying in my PC watching a dull game of Russia, finishing Atonement (I will give it back mijo!), and in this times I really think of my future. The hope is that the Maya calendar says the world finishes at 2011. It is not a matter of believings and the fact that I am a religious (which obviously I am not), Bu sometimes you got to hold on to something, especially in this times when you need strength, even if it is the Fate.

The Best player I have ever seen

Tapes and historical data is invaluable to the progress of human civilization. But the fact that history is revived through documents is a very tricky concept. Lets take for a moment the Irish upheaval of 1916. There were several mistakes and stepping stones towards the study of this rebellion fifty years ago, mainly from political reasons. One can take for example a "real contemporary account" in order to go deep into this event. That could be for example, "Easter 1916" by William Butler Yeats. But when we face the current psychological situation of the author at that moment (he felt betrayed by the other Irish leaders concerning Maud Gonne)and his previous poetical work we can see that his vision of the rebellion was different from "what it was". And certainly that subjectivity of reality leads me to the the discussion now instructed. Are we supposed to rely on historical evidences to believe past events? The frenzy of Positivism and Empiricism that has prevailed since the establishment of the science as the whole truth led us to find unequivocal pieces of evidence in "truth". So Why should we care about past events if we can watch present events now?
It is matter of collective memory.
The continuous discussion between who is the best player in the world of all times lead me to archive in almost a decade, when my appetite for historical football sources was reaching its peak. I managed to acquire a good deal of tapes, ranging from Pelé's Santos and Maradona's Barsa through Cruyff's turn and Platini's revenge. This amount of heavenly material inspired at first to play football. But I felt somehow hollow. These tapes, as many historical speeches given in primary schools in Mexico about ancient heroes, were completely far from my understanding of "empirical reality". But hen the appeared.
It is true that many of the icons of Football, previously mentioned, are the best of the best among the best. But my generation (late 80's) really did not watched any football redentors. Cantona's age was over and the last time I saw him in TV was on a movie about Queen Elizabeth. Van Basten gave glimpses of his talent after a horror injury and Baggio seemed to far from this continent, even far in TV transmissions. And then he appeared.

The incursion of Zinedine Zidane to my footballistical knowledge came with the first Juventus scudetto. Then the Madrid years came after two wonderful championships with Les Bleus. The way he conducted himself in the pitch was marvelous. He did not seem far away from the Mechanic Orange days or the Napoli majestic deeds. He was in the present, in the instant, live and direct. I saw him throughout his career and I am proud and delighted to have seen a player of his character and technique at the time when he was GREAT.
I saw him as millions of people did. It was live and raw. I do not have to put the tape, or ask elder people about his play, and as with literature I see him now. I enjoyed his play, and this is a homage to the people who saw him, to the people who did not, and to the people that saw previous figures and feel the same towards them. Above all a homage to him that I could not wrote when the famous 'headbut' happened. I am really grateful to him, because he made me happy when I failed at a math test, or when my mom barked, as always. THANK YOU Zizou for those beautiful glimpses of magnificent technique. Thank you for that goal against Bayer Leverkusen.

Samir Nasri Arrival

The gossips are running. And speculation is higher than ever. Samir Nasri has been linked to the Arsenal FC earlier this week and all the Arsenal-related blogs on your right (The Lads) have been energetically putting attention of what will be the signing of the year. Everything has been said and in this entry is quite clear. Nasri's Agent has been not a helpful kind, but I think it will come up, and finally, a talented youngster will join the North-Londoners.
It is completely true, that even before many people talked about the French attacker, that I have been for some time wishing this player in our squad. You can see it in many posts this season. A player like him could not be missed and this is the chance to win him before Tottenham or Inter. I am proud that finally Mr. Wenger opened the wallet and started to improve the team deeper. With the likes of Rosicky ever lasting injury and Hleb's unwilling to stay, any of the wings could be well complemented by this talented right-footed. The fact is that his position is like Zidane's. I have commented on his dissapearance on the pitch, but with Pat Rice and Wenger advising him, it will be a complete piece of cake overcoming this problem. We will see how the story develops with my fellow countryman Vela arriving and the break-through of some youngster to the team. We will see...

2007/2008 season Jav Arsenal Awards

I have to say that many people expect the final balance of the season, that I will give, but today is the time for the recognition; the best and the worst, so enjoy. I know SOME bloggers will eventually copy my idea saying "alluding" to "my friend" so if you see any other awards of the year similar to mine you know who did it first (the IFFHS hahahaha) and who copied it. Of course many sites have been doing this a long time but when I refer to SOMEONE, that someone will now. I have seen The Cannon review and it may seem that we both agreed, although some obvious in some remarks. Happy birthday for The Cannon. Also an overall balance by each position is provided.


Best Young Player of the Season
Due to the average of age in the team I decided to make an U-19 account.

Theo Walcott: It is true that the beginning of the season did cost him a lot but when he found his pace the toll of goals increased, covering a position that needed refreshment, and certainly provided the final step he needed; confidence.

Worst Young Player of the Season

Justin Hoyte: It is clear that from the start the youngster was eager in showing himself in the first team, but the appearance of Bacary Sagana fainted the English any chance to at least glimpse Wenger. It is true that his couple of chances were shadowed by Traore's or Clichy's but he has to get out of the club immediately. He has no talent and neither the capacity to play in such a difficult position with the prowess of Sagna

Best Goal of the Season
1-AC Milan 0-1 Arsenal by Cesc Fabregas
The turning point in the Gunners career towards European challenge that ended abruptly in the North.

2-Arsenal 2-1 Tottenham by Nicklas Bendtner
The equalizer that shocked Spurs, even when the Dane was entering the pitch and the first touch on the ball.

3-Liverpool 4-2 Arsenal by Emmanuel Adebayor
The terrific, almost poetical and speedy run that Theo Walcott made was worth the semis, but...


Best Match of the Season
1-Bolton 2-3 (EPL)
A heart-breaking resurging from the bottoms saw the best spirit of the team

2-AC Milan 0-2 Arsenal (UCL)The last grasp to European glory was conceded through a nerve-wrecking enjoyable match.

3-Man Utd 2-1 Arsenal
Although the final whistle shattered all the hopes of a title, the game was nerve-cracking, full of play and a first-class worth game

Best Young Revelation
1-Nacer Barazite
2-Armand Traore
3-Nicklas Bendtner

Best Revelation
1-Bacary Sagna
2-Lukas Fabianski
3-Mathieu Flamini

Injured player of the Season
I obviously will not mention Eduardo for respect but this award is certainly for the players whose season was shadowed by the lack of will to overcome injures and mismanagment by own players. These are the nurse favorites.
1-Tomas Rosicky
2-Nieves Denilson
3-Robin van Persie

Worst Player of the Season
1-Justin Hoyte
2-Gilberto Silva
3-Emmanuel Eboué

Best Player of the Season
1-Emmanuel Adebayor
2-Francesc Fabregas
3-Bacary Sagna

Players to Watch*
Defense: Armand Trore and maybe the inclusion of Nordveit. Surely Sagna and Clichy will develop more throughout the season, regarding what happens at EURO.
Midfield: Certainly Cesc but the replacement for Mathieu Flamini, Kieran Gibbs and Fran Merida final jump to first team should be the main attractions. The new youngster from Cardiff, Aaron Ramsey should be a look too.
Forward: Obviously Theo's development. Nicklas future and above all Carlos Vela and his inclusion to English Football as well as young starlet Nacer Barazite.

*A deeper lowdown on Arsenal young players, from all specters ,can be seen in, a really tremend resource on all of our youngsters inland and abroad.

Best Goalkeeper: Manuel Almunia
Best Defender: Bacary Sagna
Best Midfielder: Francesc Fabregas
Best Striker: Emmanuel Adebayor

Arsenal v. Everton 1-0 4/May/08

From the depths of my PC I bring you, finally, a review of the last match of the season at the Emirates. The electrifying atmosphere was complemented by a very attractive game full of tensions and also of emotions; since it was the last time that Jens Lehmann stepped in the North London turf. Mathieu Flamini was at the stands watching the game. The new AC Milan midfielder was, as far as I can say, enjoying the match with his partner Cesc. It might be the last time we see these two youngsters together and it is a pity that the Frenchman leaves the club. I will talk about this two departures at the end of the post. The match offered the usual Arsenal home game; lots of plays, good advances, glimpses of brilliant game, a 'late' goal, and a visiting side that did not pushed enough.
The starting eleven saw some modifications from the usual line-up with Denilson and Gilberto as interesting tandem, Lukas Fabianski and of course Jens Lehmann awaiting his grand entrance. It is a pity that Skipper Cesc was injured, it is always a pleasure to see him, a technical delight. Regarding Cesc I am completely thrilled and amazed by the new Nike commercial spot bringing the campaign on "Take it to the next level". For those of you who have not seen this awesome spot you should.. There has been a lot of supposition of "Who is the player in the spot?" Of course, it has a metaphor that the Goal! saga explode. But my first guess was; since it is a team of a second or third division which seen by Mr. Wenger, obviously is a young player. Afterwards the suggestive number '45' in the short also resembles a reserve player breaking into the first team (although the number 45 is currently used by James Dunne while Barazite wears 43), and finally, the player is in the Dutch national side. It is his duty to score a free-kick. But my guessings were not in Robin van Persie, which is not sponsored by Nike, but on Nacer Barazite. All descriptions fit on him but it IS OBVIOUS that the player, is the watcher and potential costumer, the same as Goal! series. And now that we are in the subject of sponsoring another spot is the Nike's "Cesc Fabregas Live Show". Amazing and brilliant. . After my Stream of Consciousness lapsus now I return to the formal analysis of the match. The match began with the unusual initiative on the visiting side, through the playmaker Pienaar. In the first minutes the match was quite entertaining and equal to all the home games. At 13' Everton surrendered an gave away the control of the ball, and the pace was dominated by the home side. In the following minute Theo had a chance after a couple of touches by Denilson. Gilberto slowly reaches the level of play that made him captain some years ago, and it was obviously the confidence matter discussed in this blog that had him out of the team for a couple of weeks. The Brazilian will get his chance following Flamini's departure. In the first third of the match Arsenal had a complete dominion of the ball and pace, although a positive Everton made approaches through Johnson and Piennar mainly. Fox Sports Argentinian commentators Gustavo Cima and Javier Tabares were gossiping about the next season ventures such as Ben Harfa's arriving and Samir Nasri's future. Really I will be glad seeing both young Frenchmen next year but Arsene is very cautious and he will not be willing to make such moves. Everton was an expectator again and made little approaches such as in the corner kick that miraculously Denislon saved, due to a mistake by Song. I t was a final season match worth environment. Alex Song is a talented player, certainly not for a center back duty rather immature. A good thing that caught my attention was the ability of Manu Eboué to make tandems, this time with "Robosaur" Bendtner. Cima's comment can summarize Everton's attitude in the game; "La aventura de Johnson"->[The adventure of Johnson]. The ambient at the Grove growed tense as the half time whistle approached. Everton had its flashes but still the flow of the game passed through the home side.
In the second Half the things turned not different but causal. The pressure and game style of the away side lasted merely five minutes. In the few set pieces that the Arsenal side had, I have to say that Denilson took them horribly while Theo was wonderfully. Denilson really needs to improve his corners or other wise should not be having them. The dominant tyranny of the home team began at 50'. It was obvious that the goal was going to arrive at any moment. In the stands the crowd grew even more eager with the warming up Jens Lehmann. And at 60' the imposing Arsenal force was been held tightly ny a Mersey side that had nearly no intentions of anything. This idea is reinforced by the fact that even basic touching skill plays could not be finished. The possession rose from 45 to 73% to the home side. At the stands the injured players were watching, as usual a match that had nothing important. But apparently Thomas Rosicky was enjoying the game, and who could not enjoy the beautiful way the Arsenal play? The fact was that he seemed to have enjoyed his time at bench long enough. At 69' the crowd stood for the last home match of the German veteran Lehmann. His incursion in the club has been a good one, being at some time in his career the best keeper on the world. His last season was far from grace but his professionalism towards play has been a thing to remember. The best thing that a player can get, and I am telling this from experience, is to be waved and recognized by the crowd. The support and recognition that some player has is a feeling that even exceeds the feeling of scoring. And I think that for some time at least people will remember him with a smile. Goo trip wherever you go Jens!Then the time for our little French youngster Armand Traore came. From the Carling Cup appearances he seemed to boast, and now he is more refreshed that ever. He began a little nervous, while Clichy covered his back from time to time. And again the prowness of Clichy took place. While some shots and corners went wide, it was clear that Gallas frustration was evident. He was moaning and yelling at "Robosaur" as if he had missed the WC Final penalty. Anyway at 75' the goal arrived when "Robosaur" himself made his way through the field finding a lone Traore, who delivered a perfect cross towards the header of the Dane. It was a very beautiful goal in terms of construction. The cross was masterly, and the header a trademark from Bedntner. It was strange that he saluted Adebayor after. Traore is the perfect Cruyffean lateral in terms of style, he has everything the Dutchman asks; speed, touch, crossing and tandem. A Lavolpean lateral. Towards the end of the game Everton failed to achieve even a modest play, instead the possession was kept by the home side, letting Traore make the crosses almost perfectly. At 86' a play by Walcott and Nedtner kept me surprised. This combination has been lethal. The final minutes where completely from the Arsenal view, wonderful. Traore was playing as Robben; extremo. While Gallas and Senderos came off the side and worked as midfielders. Non-sense football.


Tomas Rosicky voyage is out. I am frustrated, as David young previously stated, that this 'talented' midfielder wasted a semester in recovery. His injury was strange, yes, but mistreated by him. It is a shame and it will be suitable to rest him for aeons in the bench instead of another profitable winger such as Theo, Diaby and my favorite Arsenal prospect, Samir Nasri. It will be a tough decision regarding productivity in last seasons. He has given glimpses of unnutured talent such as in Utd games or against Liverpool. Certainly he was not one of the references of the 'success' of the team this season. And will have too take care not just by the fact that the position does not belongs to him anymore, but his contract is expiring and convencing the board with the little he has shown the previous two years, will be difficult.

Hleb has been added to the pletora of 'youngster' who leave the club, in the search foo a 'better future'. For respect to this mediocer players I will not give the list of tenths of players that had left the club in order of better prospect, whatever they are. He has the quality of an outstanding lpayer. Not a crack but a very good one indeed. His best features are vision and above all passing. The only player that really can challenge his passing is Skipper Cesc. Mathieu Flamini has left the club also yt he same means. All that is to say or have been say is here in this escellent entry by another blogger of the greatest team in the world. I completely stand by his position, and nothing more to add.
Regarding the UCL Final at Moscow I have to say that I expected to be there, as I promised when our teeam beat the current champion side. But nevertheless the final is English I think that only the winners are able to keep it and not newly comers, just in some occassions has happened such as last EURO

Mathieu Flamini has left the club, I repeat. it is not a death trial statement but I have to say that a very high number of players has left the club in a very short time. It is common that players that are not confortable in the team leave, but, for sure,
Jens Lehmann final home game brought flashes of brilliancy and security.
Each season the Arsenal has entertained the people feeding them with things such as Arsenal's biggest goals, Arsenal's greatest momments and now Arsenal 50 greatest players. I know that this is a true interaction between the audience and the club but the fact that this is a warm up, to 'support' the team next season is a joke. We all know the tremendous support the team has inland and abroad and I do not think that with this campaigns the morale will rise. Everybody knows their figures and momments, all the things that are brought by this polls are polemics. I also recognize the fact that this type of events can not be done in the season when attention is put in fixture congestion, but is it necesary? But anyways you may agree or not, even with the selection of current layers.

Derby County v. Arsenal 2-6 28/Apr/08

A violent and dramatic 'training' took place today as the Arsenal practiced in times visiting the now Championship team Derby. The away side struggled from time to time against an impulsive Derby side that was pushing towards the goal several times. The Arsenal really did not paid much attention to the game and that meant for ten minutes equalizing and then Derby dangerously approaching the score. Eventually the visiting side imposed their category and demolished the Eastern team, with an outstanding performance by Togolese Adebayor.
But all in all, what can be really expected from a match like this? Seriously, and with all due respect, in the final stands of the season with both sides ended prematurely their aspirations what can be brought from this point? Well first the line up was modified, with the 'rotation' issue, already discussed in this blog. Fabianski and Denilson were a surprise and the already common right side with Touré and Eboué in contention. The relegated team was really positive throughout the match, considering its position and nothing can be said contrary to the crowd attending massively at the Shire. The "new players" were given a chance. Denilson and Alex Song were completely arrhythmic even though the latter has been given the chance in recent games. The match started vividly, with both sides attending each box frequently. Early at 5' Bendtner had a chance after a cross from the right by Eboué. The game went dynamically and the home side conceived a couple of chances by "Tito" Villa. One of them nearly finishing in an own goal due to a deflection on song at 8'. The game went on in the same dynamic style, with the home side enjoying the 15 minute gap advantage in which usually the away sides are adapting and accommodating.

The game was still unclear for the visiting side featuring a good Cesc. This player increases his importance exponentially in all games, so I will be commenting on his game. Fabregas was forward in addition to Song. At this time of the match, 20', the game developed excellent providing the viewer with a pretty good spectacle. Cesc was playing as the canonical European Creative Midfielder. At 24' the first goal came with Bendtner crossing the shot after a wall with van Persie. Of course it was a complete mistake by the Derby defense. A rookie mistake, which was actually a leitmotiv in the match. Rookie mistakes. Arsenal was beginning to take control of the game when a couple of shots went wide. But the leveler arrived on 31' with McEveley finding a loose ball in the box. Another rookie mistake by Song and Fabainski and also on Gallas. on the other hand, van Persie has been recovering the pace he was so distinguishable from. His style is even more initiative inflicting positive attention towards other players. Theo Walcott has been playing impressively and although I criticize him directly and promptly, not as many other journalists, I always said he is a piece of player, a crack in future years, and the only thing that he can do is improve and listen to advices(shortly I will be making a post about Why do Cracks fade?"). His influence on the field is very tough, reaching the point of complete 'personalism'. He seems to have the 'flu' of cracks; not giving away the ball. It happened to Cristiano Ronaldo, he learn the lesson and is in the path towards Golden Boot and Golden Ball. Messi definitely would not acquire this wisdom due to his Argentine nature. But the moment that Theo provides the ball towards other players and then be required he will become a Crack in all the sense of the world. This was proved in the third goal and I will go deep into the subject later. Welsh player Robbie Savage is a 'case' for a psychologist. The fact that is game style is based on the prowess and force does not mean that it has to arrive late to a certain player. This player is our talented skipper Cesc Fabregas. If you remember well, in the previous season game at the Grove against Blackburn Cesc performed a beautiful Nutmeg, full of Brazilian geniality. Back then, the Rover player could only help being ashamed and booed by the stand. I have previously told that Savage can not really get over the theme and each time a challenge could be made towards the number 4 of the Arsenal, Savage seemed relentlessly to struggle unfairly to the ball. Memory performs tricks that conscience can not kill so Savage should be looking for his own mental health before more players get injured. The second goal arrived when Kolo Touré provided van Persie with an onside chip that outsoled the home defense. The dutchman made a extremely talented chest control and finished potent with his right foot. Thus Derby defense was completely confused and overwhelmed in the final minutes of the first match. This confusingness made the away side took freely some things; such as Kolo Touré playing as a forward covering the ubicuos "Robosaur".
Robin van Persie was off in order to prevent a further injury with Adebayor in his place. Truly it was a dream-night for the Togolese scoring a hat-trick in 45'. The home side clearly struggled after a talk with the coach in the half time which put the team in a complete offensive strategy that lasted briefly and, certainly, with no ideas. Kolo Touré long range shot were wide but more dangerous that previous occasions and in several ways scared the Shire keeper. Diego Latorre made a comment that made me think throughout the week: "Bendtner y Adebayor no se complementan [...] no pueden jugar juntos"->[Bendtner and Adebayor do not complement each other[...] they can not play together]. And indeed the way the forwards' style is, certainly lacks cohesion, playing in similar positions and one even more talented than the other.

Cesc Fabregas, as I said before, has been playing perfectly. His technique is cleaner and neater than ever, while his passing seem to improve all the time. His vision and center-mind location is awesome and above all his ability to sacrifice himself rather than think of himself. He is the inspiration that the team needs if wanted to achieve something beyond second or third place at the table. Surely he can be named skipper and the people at the stands and the players will not object. He is respected and above all excellent player. For me he is the truth inspiration of the team, the core of the game and the REAL SKIPPER. So hence forth I will refer to Cesc as 'Skipper Cesc'. In the third goal, Theo made a brilliant play from the right, eluding one defender and crossing after watching carefully to whom. Adebayor netted and the team took the lead by two. The game developed on a one-way traffic to the London team, due to the reluctance of Derby to participate on the game. Again Walcott made a fine shot that went wide, portraying his desparation and still young carer at the goal. The a substitution was made. The Hospital Friend Denilson, who is currently leading my poll on the "Injured Player of the Year", went out after a little stretch in the thigh. In the 67' the away side took liberties that caused another goal. The London side dominance was obvious when Cesc began to play as a center back and Kolo Touré swaying between midfield and striker position ant the right. In the final minutes of the match, the things spiced up with the entrances of good players such as Felheiber and Earnshaw. The latter scored a goal on a possible off-side on the already common reluctant mark of William Gallas. I have to say that it was a brilliant finishing by the Welsh. Djorou made an strange appearance for Touré at 78', really not changing anything. Shortly after Gilberto provided a long pass to Walcott who made an impressive outside cut in the box and finished it to the far post making a beautiful post. I remembered the finishing at the Carling Cup Final against Chelsea. Pure talent. The feast went on when another goal arrived at 80' with a very good cross by Clichy which Adebayor netted impressively. After that, the remaining ten minutes turned into a chaotic training. But the prudence and calmness of Skipper Cesc rose. The prudence of the Spaniard is contrasted with Gallas immaturity and despair. The final punch came at 92' with the hat-trick of Manu Adebayor. The pass was perfect, from Skipper Cesc.
Last but not least the PFA Awards took place, and it is outstanding to say that four players of the Arsenal FC were in the 'Team of the Year' category, while Cesc Fabregas was awarded with 'Best Young Player' and Cristiano Ronaldo 'Best Player'. Although the challenge was tough it was obvious that these two players soared above the elite of English football. Personally, although I praise Cesc anytime I can, I would have given the 'Best Young Player' to Fernando "El Niño" Torres. But Cesc deserved it. This is another extra point on the functioning of the team this season. The players are first-class, nothing more to say.

Epic Posting

The famous epic update I have been talking about is here. Now first some instructions for you dear reader, to not stumble in your way. The two remaining Merseyside feature are being reviewed as well as the Man Utd match. Following that the home Reading game (19/Apr/08) was not broadcasted on Mexican TV. The Derby and Everton matches were reviewed but the lat at Sundeland with the Theo Winner was not due to, again, missing broadcater. After the season I prepared the Jav Arsenal 2007/2008 season awards and following US v. England and some comments on Mexico. I prepared some essays which are being finalized and will be posted. After all this the EURO 2008 daily update will be posted. I manage to have a big amount of readable things in this two month get-away so enjoy and comment.

It is sweet and decorous...

Today has not been the best day of all. And I remember, although many people do not, the 6th of June of 1944. As I have previously stated the war changed my life. Not in the way of fighting which is actually ridiculous in my country but rather seeing fiction and specially reading the deeds of people in it. The deeds are occasional, ekphrastic moments of varied arrays. The best one I can remember now is "Ode to a Grecian Urn" and "The Shield of Achilles". Although these are among my favorite poems I think this view of moments is exhausted. The real poetry that changed my way of viewing war was Wilfred Owen's. It is a shock, an impulse, the terrified glance towards the apocalyptic visions of Eliot in The Waste Land. And although WWI seems far distant in any sense to WWII it is the "lilacs than breed" the same feeling as in "Dulce et Decorum Est". Everything fails, as Robbie Turner in Atonement, to produce something out of the "dead land".

And the discourse of Rupert Brooke (i.e. "The Soldier") is exhausted. That is why I still read Owen's poetry nearly 100 years after its creation. That is why I read war historians. That is why as Stephen Spender "I Think Continually Of Those Who Were Great". That is why I remember the men and woman who sacrificed themselves that dreadful but hopeful day of June. That is why "a terrible beauty is born".
A thought for the every man that died that day, on each nationality.


"Dulce Et Decorum Est"
Bent double, like old beggars under sacks,
Knock-kneed, coughing like hags, we cursed through sludge,
Till on the haunting flares we turned our backs
And towards our distant rest began to trudge.
Men marched asleep. Many had lost their boots
But limped on, blood-shod. All went lame; all blind;
Drunk with fatigue; deaf even to the hoots
Of tired, outstripped Five-Nines that dropped behind.

Gas! GAS! Quick, boys! – An ecstasy of fumbling,
Fitting the clumsy helmets just in time;
But someone still was yelling out and stumbling,
And flound'ring like a man in fire or lime . . .
Dim, through the misty panes and thick green light,
As under a green sea, I saw him drowning.

In all my dreams, before my helpless sight,
He plunges at me, guttering, choking, drowning.

If in some smothering dreams you too could pace
Behind the wagon that we flung him in,
And watch the white eyes writhing in his face,
His hanging face, like a devil's sick of sin;
If you could hear, at every jolt, the blood
Come gargling from the froth-corrupted lungs,
Obscene as cancer, bitter as the cud
Of vile, incurable sores on innocent tongues,
My friend, you would not tell with such high zest
To children ardent for some desperate glory,
The old Lie; Dulce et Decorum est
Pro patria mori.