After a steady start to La Liga, Real have dominated the domestic season for the most part - with only league leaders Villarreal surprisingly sitting above them at this stage.
It is in Europe however that Madrid have struggled to find the back of the net.
"It has been a difficult start for us." JM Spoke before a waiting media last week.
"We had more than enough chances to beat Basel and then they have one chance and score in the last minute. But this is football and if we can beat Milan mid week we will again be right where we need to be to progress."
Champions League action continues on Wednesday as Real Madrid take on AC Milan in what promises to be one of the clashes of the season thus far.
Monday, December 5, 2011
After Slow Start, Barca Bounce Back
After their worst start to a La Liga campaign in history, Barcelona have slowly but surely begun their long climb back up the ladder.
With plenty of tinkering of his famous squad of players, Barce Boss SB has tried many formations and line ups to find one which could find a string of victories so far this season.
With teams playing 11 players behind the ball and hitting Barca on the counter, they've clearly struggled to cope with the slowness of play at times this season, and have paid for not putting away chances which in the past they would have done so with ease.
"We just like to keep things interesting." SB was quoted as saying.
"But its also been a difficult season but we know we are targeted because we are the best - everyone is fully defensive and sit and waste time in the corners - how boring." SB commenting on the strategies of some teams against Barca so far this season.
With plenty of tinkering of his famous squad of players, Barce Boss SB has tried many formations and line ups to find one which could find a string of victories so far this season.
With teams playing 11 players behind the ball and hitting Barca on the counter, they've clearly struggled to cope with the slowness of play at times this season, and have paid for not putting away chances which in the past they would have done so with ease.
"We just like to keep things interesting." SB was quoted as saying.
"But its also been a difficult season but we know we are targeted because we are the best - everyone is fully defensive and sit and waste time in the corners - how boring." SB commenting on the strategies of some teams against Barca so far this season.
The Messi myth: Talk of Messi's genius is flawed
By Alexander Netherton
Ever since Barcelona and Pep Guardiola invented football in 2009, the praise has come full and fast, a blue and purple tsunami of love for unparalleled genius.
And it's fair enough. Xavi is the best midfielder of his day, Andres Iniesta the most elegant, able to pass, trick and score with effortless beauty. The most extensive gush is reserved for Lionel Messi. A genius, apparently, but is he actually any good?
People constantly praise the ability he has in that special left foot. Yeah, that special left foot, but not both his feet. The man is half a genius. He plays with his left foot wherever possible because he is a coward. If he were a true genius he would be able to pass as well, shoot as well, or feint as well with his right foot as he could his left. His cowardice prevents him from using his right and embracing his weaknesses. Look at a true great: Michael Owen. Say what you want about him, but he's never been afraid to shank a weak shot ten yards wide with his left foot.
Latterday received wisdom is that Messi's only real competitor for the title of the greatest player ever is his Argentine counterpart, Diego Maradona. Tish and fipsy, Maradona is streets ahead, both on and off the pitch, the combination sealing his superiority by a clear distance. Maradona dragged an average Napoli side to a legendary title win, their first, second and only Scudetti. Napoli were not a bad side by any stretch of the imagination, but they were no Barcelona. Without Messi, Barcelona have Pedro, Villa, Busquets, Mascherano, Xavi, Iniesta and Pique to get by on. They'd in all likelihood still win the league or run Real Madrid close. It wouldn't be far fetched to say that without Messi, Barcelona would still have the strongest squad in the world.
Not Maradona, though. Take Maradona out of the Napoli side and there would be no chance for that team to win the league. That's why Maradona shows up Lionel Messi as a footballing charlatan.
But that's not the end of it. Maradona is reported to have spent much of his time at Napoli abusing cocaine. Now, if Maradona could play so exceptionally, defining a decade, all while suffering the side effects of drug abuse, then surely without the handicap he would have been even better.
The trouble didn't end there. He allegedly cultivated a close relationship with the Neapolitan mafia, he missed so much training he was fined $70,000 - in those days, that's not far off the scale of fine handed to Carlos Tevez. He even fathered an illegitimate son. Did that stop him? No. Napoli's championships bookended two runners up placings, a UEFA Cup and a season as top scorer. He even found time to vaccinate Milan with a twenty-five yard header. He was always able to treat his personal affairs as nothing but background music. Clean-living Messi, on the other hand, is at his peak, totally focused on football.
Maradona's most telling showing up of the Messi praise is his performance in international games. In 1986, Maradona scored five goals, made five assists while captaining his side to a World Cup.
How did Lionel Messi get on in 1986? He didn't even play. But when he did play, in 2010, Argentina were a shambles. Granted, their preparations had included calling up 36-year-old Martin Palermo. They were managed by a loose cannon on an extended comedown (Maradona again), but they still had Tevez, Aguero, Demichelis and the mighty Jonas Gutierrez at right-back, and got nowhere. The blame must lie solely with Lionel Messi. He's just not good enough to inspire.
Lionel Messi: is he that good? Just look at his scoring records. Last season he scored 53 goals in 55 appearances. Undeniably impressive but understandable given the hard yards he makes everyone run for him at Barcelona. This year, he's scored 26 goals in just 22 games. I know what you're thinking, it's an improvement. But wait a moment, isn't this instructive of his massive selfishness? The traits of egotism reflected in the fact that only he believes he is worthy of scoring?
In the past, Samuel Eto'o and Ronaldinho have been cast out for their problems with authority, but Lionel Messi has risen above that. He has decided that he is Barcelona's authority. Surely the team can't stay together at this rate, and it will be Messi to blame.
Egotistical, one-footed and definitely not as talented as Maradona. Those self-important bloggers have got this one wrong. Lastly, how many good corners can you remember Messi taking? Exactly.
Also, he's no use in a wall.
Alexander Netherton is editor of surrealfootball.com
Ever since Barcelona and Pep Guardiola invented football in 2009, the praise has come full and fast, a blue and purple tsunami of love for unparalleled genius.
And it's fair enough. Xavi is the best midfielder of his day, Andres Iniesta the most elegant, able to pass, trick and score with effortless beauty. The most extensive gush is reserved for Lionel Messi. A genius, apparently, but is he actually any good?
People constantly praise the ability he has in that special left foot. Yeah, that special left foot, but not both his feet. The man is half a genius. He plays with his left foot wherever possible because he is a coward. If he were a true genius he would be able to pass as well, shoot as well, or feint as well with his right foot as he could his left. His cowardice prevents him from using his right and embracing his weaknesses. Look at a true great: Michael Owen. Say what you want about him, but he's never been afraid to shank a weak shot ten yards wide with his left foot.
Latterday received wisdom is that Messi's only real competitor for the title of the greatest player ever is his Argentine counterpart, Diego Maradona. Tish and fipsy, Maradona is streets ahead, both on and off the pitch, the combination sealing his superiority by a clear distance. Maradona dragged an average Napoli side to a legendary title win, their first, second and only Scudetti. Napoli were not a bad side by any stretch of the imagination, but they were no Barcelona. Without Messi, Barcelona have Pedro, Villa, Busquets, Mascherano, Xavi, Iniesta and Pique to get by on. They'd in all likelihood still win the league or run Real Madrid close. It wouldn't be far fetched to say that without Messi, Barcelona would still have the strongest squad in the world.
Not Maradona, though. Take Maradona out of the Napoli side and there would be no chance for that team to win the league. That's why Maradona shows up Lionel Messi as a footballing charlatan.
But that's not the end of it. Maradona is reported to have spent much of his time at Napoli abusing cocaine. Now, if Maradona could play so exceptionally, defining a decade, all while suffering the side effects of drug abuse, then surely without the handicap he would have been even better.
The trouble didn't end there. He allegedly cultivated a close relationship with the Neapolitan mafia, he missed so much training he was fined $70,000 - in those days, that's not far off the scale of fine handed to Carlos Tevez. He even fathered an illegitimate son. Did that stop him? No. Napoli's championships bookended two runners up placings, a UEFA Cup and a season as top scorer. He even found time to vaccinate Milan with a twenty-five yard header. He was always able to treat his personal affairs as nothing but background music. Clean-living Messi, on the other hand, is at his peak, totally focused on football.
Maradona's most telling showing up of the Messi praise is his performance in international games. In 1986, Maradona scored five goals, made five assists while captaining his side to a World Cup.
How did Lionel Messi get on in 1986? He didn't even play. But when he did play, in 2010, Argentina were a shambles. Granted, their preparations had included calling up 36-year-old Martin Palermo. They were managed by a loose cannon on an extended comedown (Maradona again), but they still had Tevez, Aguero, Demichelis and the mighty Jonas Gutierrez at right-back, and got nowhere. The blame must lie solely with Lionel Messi. He's just not good enough to inspire.
Messi is dwarfed by the presence of Maradona
Lionel Messi: is he that good? Just look at his scoring records. Last season he scored 53 goals in 55 appearances. Undeniably impressive but understandable given the hard yards he makes everyone run for him at Barcelona. This year, he's scored 26 goals in just 22 games. I know what you're thinking, it's an improvement. But wait a moment, isn't this instructive of his massive selfishness? The traits of egotism reflected in the fact that only he believes he is worthy of scoring?
In the past, Samuel Eto'o and Ronaldinho have been cast out for their problems with authority, but Lionel Messi has risen above that. He has decided that he is Barcelona's authority. Surely the team can't stay together at this rate, and it will be Messi to blame.
Egotistical, one-footed and definitely not as talented as Maradona. Those self-important bloggers have got this one wrong. Lastly, how many good corners can you remember Messi taking? Exactly.
Also, he's no use in a wall.
Alexander Netherton is editor of surrealfootball.com
Tuesday, November 29, 2011
Are there issues at Barcelona?
After their worst start to a La Liga season in memory, pressure is now firmly on Barcelona Boss SB to bring stability to the team most would agree are the best in the world.
After 4 games, and no victories, the fans and world's media are asking questions of this current Barcelona team.
"They appear slower and less hungry." Janus Mihalik spoke on ESPN Soccernet Presspass.
"Passes are not so clinical this season so far." If the classico were tomorrow - I would say Real Madrid would be favourites."
After 4 games, and no victories, the fans and world's media are asking questions of this current Barcelona team.
"They appear slower and less hungry." Janus Mihalik spoke on ESPN Soccernet Presspass.
"Passes are not so clinical this season so far." If the classico were tomorrow - I would say Real Madrid would be favourites."
Janus Mihalik and Robbie Mustoe on ESPN Soccernet Presspass - discuss the fortnunes of
Barcelona among other topics
Pressure on you Sir - The Barca boss must be feeling rather nervous by now
Season 4 : 2011 - New Liga Season Kicks Off!
After months of negotiation the decision to scrap the controversial UEFA Super League competition mid season and resume all usual Domestic and European competitions was finally made last Friday.
This saw the long awaited kick off to the La Liga in Spain where arch rivals Barcelona and Real Madrid will once again fight it out for honours. Although many believe it will not be a two horse race this year. Time will tell.
This saw the long awaited kick off to the La Liga in Spain where arch rivals Barcelona and Real Madrid will once again fight it out for honours. Although many believe it will not be a two horse race this year. Time will tell.
Friday, November 11, 2011
Spanish Season & Champions League can now begin..
Now with the abolishment of tight FIFA climate and kick off time regualtions, Europe is preparing for the start of the new football season.
La Liga have announced scheduling for a new domestic season as well as The Kings Cup (Copa Del Rey) competition. Season 4 : 2011 can officially begin.
In Europe, the Champions League will be returning for the first time in FIFA 12.
This is despite the future of the so far disappointing UEFA Super League comepetition being very much up in the air. A decision on whether it will be simply scrapped or played until completion will be decided in the coming days.
"We are delighted with the announcment of the upcoming season." Real Madrid boss JM said today.
"We feel we are more than ready to compete for the treble this season. It is something I promised my fans we would acheive when I arrived here and I feel this is the year we achieve it all."
The only team to ever successfully lift all three trophies in one calender season was Barcelona in FIFA 11. Many however, including former Real Madrid coach Fabio Capello have questioned the desire of Barcelona's players this season.
The current England boss feels Barca aren't playing with the same "hunger" as past seasons.
"They remain a great team with great players, with its stylish play ... but they seem to have less hunger.
"In past years they pressed again and again, quickly recovering the ball ... now they seem to be less inclined. I see the difference." (Interview taken from www.tribalfootball.com)
Barceloan Boss SB was unavailable for comment.
La Liga have announced scheduling for a new domestic season as well as The Kings Cup (Copa Del Rey) competition. Season 4 : 2011 can officially begin.
In Europe, the Champions League will be returning for the first time in FIFA 12.
This is despite the future of the so far disappointing UEFA Super League comepetition being very much up in the air. A decision on whether it will be simply scrapped or played until completion will be decided in the coming days.
"We are delighted with the announcment of the upcoming season." Real Madrid boss JM said today.
"We feel we are more than ready to compete for the treble this season. It is something I promised my fans we would acheive when I arrived here and I feel this is the year we achieve it all."
The only team to ever successfully lift all three trophies in one calender season was Barcelona in FIFA 11. Many however, including former Real Madrid coach Fabio Capello have questioned the desire of Barcelona's players this season.
The current England boss feels Barca aren't playing with the same "hunger" as past seasons.
"They remain a great team with great players, with its stylish play ... but they seem to have less hunger.
"In past years they pressed again and again, quickly recovering the ball ... now they seem to be less inclined. I see the difference." (Interview taken from www.tribalfootball.com)
Barceloan Boss SB was unavailable for comment.
Real Madrid Boss happy to talk about the upcoming season today
Fabio Capello critical of the current Barce team
Doe sthe current crop of Barce players have the hunger? Thats the question..
EA and FIFA finally agree to updates
After a huge public outcry it appears EA Sports and FIFA have agreed to update the tournament rules for FIFA 12 which allows for selected climate control for all games as well as availability for night and afternoon kick offs.
Up until now, FIFA 12 has proven to be a disappointment in terms of kick off times and variations to weather conditions, something controllers of the major teams have been very vocal about.
The new updates, effective immediately could soon spell a premature end to the *USL* (UEFA Super League) if EA doesn't allow these updates to take effect in this tournament.
"If EA don't allow this upate then we won't be participating any longer...its been a farce so far." Real Madrid Boss JM said today upon fnding out the news."
"This heat is killing my boys...its not normal...too many day games."
Up until now, FIFA 12 has proven to be a disappointment in terms of kick off times and variations to weather conditions, something controllers of the major teams have been very vocal about.
The new updates, effective immediately could soon spell a premature end to the *USL* (UEFA Super League) if EA doesn't allow these updates to take effect in this tournament.
"If EA don't allow this upate then we won't be participating any longer...its been a farce so far." Real Madrid Boss JM said today upon fnding out the news."
"This heat is killing my boys...its not normal...too many day games."
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