THE 2012/13 CHAMPIONS LEAGUE!

This week marks the return of the most important and best club competition in the world: the UEFA Champions League! Day 1 sees a mouthwatering clash between the champions of Spain and the champions of England: Real Madrid vs Manchester City in one of the most difficult groups ever assembled.

This seasons competition promises to be be as exciting as ever. Detailed below are the group pairings and bolded are the teams who I believe will progress from each group. I have previewed and ranked those teams further below. Enjoy the 2012/13 Champions League!

Group A: Paris Saint Germain, Dynamo Kiev, Porto, Dinamo Zagreb 
Group B: Arsenal, Schalke, Montpellier, Olympiacos
Group C: AC Milan, Zenit St Petersburg, Malaga, Anderlecht
Group D: Real Madrid, Borussia Dortmund, Manchester City, Ajax Amsterdam 
Group E: Juventus, Chelsea, Shaktar Donetsk, Nordsjaelland
Group F:  Bayern Munich, Valencia, Lille, BATE Borisov
Group G: Barcelona, Benfica, Celtic, Spartak Moscow
Group H: Manchester United, Galatasaray, Sporting Braga, CFR Cluj 

16. BENFICA Artur-  Pereira, Luisao, Garay, Melgarejo-  Martins, Rodrigo - Aimar, Salvio, Nolito- Cardozo
The Portuguese champions are unlucky to be drawn with Barcelona however they have enough class to get past Celtic and Spartak. A second round showing is the best they can hope for however, particularly after losing their playmaker Axel Witsel. That is of course unless Aimar can roll back the years and assist Salvio and Cardozo with goals. The defensive pairing of Luisao and Garay is solid but their distribution can be found wanting at times.


15. DYNAMO KIEV Shokovskiy-  Danilo, Betao, Mikhalik, Taiwo - Veloso, Vukojevic - Yarmolenko, Kranjcar, Gusev - Brown 

With technically gifted players from Eastern Europe like Kranjcar and Vukojevic mixing with gifted players like Taiwo,Veloso and Brown and local superstar Yarmolenko in the mix, Dynamo can be a very dangerous opponent on their day.


14. GALATASARAY  Muslera - Eboue, Cris, Gokhan, Ceyhun - Melo, Altintop - Bulut, Elmander  Riera - Baros
The one team that everyone in Europe fears playing away, Galatasary will be hoping to progress from a relatively easy group and cause surprises in the second round. Some very experienced footballers like Baros, Eboue and Melo are mixed with Turkish stars like Bulut and Altintop to make them a formidable opponent.


13. SCHALKE Fahrmann - Uchida, Papadopoulos, Howedes, Fuchs - Barnetta, Holtby, Draxler, Afellay - Farfan, Huntelaar

A typically competitive German team, Schalke has done well to add Barnetta and Afellay to their midfield to complement highly rated local talents Holtby and Draxler.  if their forwards Huntelaar and Farfan can continue their impressive form from last season then Schalke will be a hard team to beat.
 

12. ZENIT ST PETERSBURG Malafeev-Anyokov, Alves, Lombaerts, Criscito- Zyryanov, Witsel, Semak, Denisov - Hulk, Kerzhakov
The Russian champions are made up of half of the Russian national team and some serious European talent. Having scored the double scoop of the European transfer market in securing the services of the Belgium playmaker Axel Witsel and Brazilian striker Hulk, they are sure to make an impression on this years Champions League.  Add the wily brains of Italian coach Spaletti and Zenit can cause some surprises.

11. AC MILAN Abbiati - Abate, Bonera, Acerbi, Antonini - Nocerino, DeJong, Boateng, Montolivo -  Pato, Robinho
Much has been said about the loss in quality for the Rossoneri after the transfers of Ibrahimovic and Silva, but perhaps not enough on the potential quality of some of their signings. Montolivo proved at the Euros what a good midfielder he is and De Jong has been added to balance the midfield. Up front they can choose anyone of the following proven strikers-Robinho, Pato, Bojan and Pazzini.  As long as Milan get their defensive pairing right in the centre they should be good enough to progress in top spot from their group. 
 
10. PARIS SAINT GERMAIN Douchez - VanDerWiel, Sakho, Silva, Maxwell - Varatti, Motta, Pastore - Menez, Ibrahimovic, Lavezzi
A team made up with the wealthy contributions of the Arab world, PSG are bound to cause serious concerns for anyone if the team manage to click. Experienced Italian coach Carlo Ancelotti is the right man for the job but come the decisive months of February through to April it will be up to the superstars to deliver. The forward line of Pastore, Lavezzi and Ibrahimovic is one that promises lots of excitement and goals in upcoming matches.  

9. CHELSEA Cech- Ivanovic, Luis, Terry, Cole - Lampard, Mikel - Hazard, Oscar, Mata - Torres 


The defending champions won the Champions League last year with a lot of luck and playing very defensively with athletic players. Their involvement in the transfer market this season has resulted in a squad full of quality and flair, but should their game plan change from last season it will be interesting to see if they can still beat the best in Europe at their own game. Nonetheless Hazard and Oscar will show their worth this season.

8. ARSENAL Sczezny - Sagna, Martesacker, Vermaelen, Gibbs - Arteta, Wilshere, Cazorla - OxladeChamberlain,  Gervinho, Podolski
It seems that no matter who they lose over the summer Arsenal still seems to put together a team capable of competing with the best. Cazorla in the midfield and Podolski up front are fantastic signings and fit the Arsenal mould of playing slick fast football. If Wilshere can return from injury the same player they will be very dangerous once again and continue their fine record of Champions League football. 

7. MANCHESTER UNITED DeGea - Smalling, Ferdinand, Vidic, Evra - Valencia, Carrick, Scholes, Kagawa - Rooney, Van Persie
Alex Ferguson's men don't need any introduction, they are always a tough team to beat in Europe and last years shock exit will have them primed for a better showing this time round. Adding Van Persie to the attack next to Rooney could see some  serious fireworks in front of goal. Should new signing Kagawa be given the right role to flourish United should get to the quarters. Their defence however is a problem that will surely be exposed at the pointy end of the competition.

   
6. VALENCIA Alves - Pereira, Ruiz, Rami, Cissokho - Gago, Albelda -Feghouli, Piatti, Guardado - Soldado
A team that can regularly provide a stern test for Barcelona and Real Madrid in Spain has to be respected in the Champions League. Feghouli has started the season well and the addition of tricky Mexican Guardado provides width in attack. The Argentinian Gago is a deep lying playmaker that can give rhythm to a team and can create moves for the likes of Soldado and Piatti to finish off. Their fine style of fast decisive attacking moves with the ball on the ground continues and they will be a match for anyone on their day. Underestimate them at your peril. 

5. BORUSSIA DORTMUND Weidenfeller - Pisczek, Hummels, Subotic, Schmelzer - Bender, Gundogan - Blaszykowski, Reus, Gotze - Lewandowski
The German champions showed their true class and potential when dismantling Bayern Munich in last season's German Cup Final. A surprise loss to Marseille meant that they didn't progress to the stage of the Champions League last season that their talents deserved, however the addition of the hugely talented Reus and the continual rise of Gotze will surely see them as the team most likely to surprise the big 4. The midfield pairing of Gundogan and Bender and the defending of Hummels provides a good base for the attacking talents and Lewandowski has developed into one of the finest centre forwards in European football.  If they can get out of the 'Group of Death' they can go all the way. 

4. JUVENTUS Buffon - Lichsteiner, Bonucci, Barzagli, Chiellini -  Marchisio, Pirlo, Vidal, Asamoah - Vucinic, Giovinco
The Italian champions are back where they belong and they wont be shy with the experience at their disposal. Boasting most of the Italian team that did so well at the Euros, their chances will be finished off by the impressive striker Vucinic. Asamooah and Vidal also add athleticism to Pirlo's maestro like tempo in the midfield, and Lichsteiner is a constant threat on the right flank. Expect them to reach the semis and possibly a final showing should Conte the coach get through his touchline ban.

3. BAYERN MUNICH Neuer - Lahm, Dante, Badstuber, Alaba - Schweinsteiger, Martinez - Robben, Kroos, Ribery - Mandzukic
Bayern have added players where they needed them from last season. The arrival of Mandzukic is also a boost in attack and provides a more all round attacking threat to Gomez, however its new boy Martinez from Spain for a ridiculous amount of money who is expected to make the difference,  a player with enough tactical maturity and distribution to cover the gaps in midfield whilst Schweinsteiger, Robben, Ribery and Kroos create havoc in the opposition half. Kroos in particular is a player that is developing into a fine midfield general. There is enough depth in the squad to see them at least reach the semis if not the final once more.

2. REAL MADRID Casillas - Arbeloa, Ramos, Pepe, Marcelo - Khedira, Alonso - Ozil, Modric, DiMaria - Benzema
Real should have made last seasons final and you can bet that the whole squad will be aiming to make this right, after all everyone from the coach to the goalkeeper believe its their God given right since they play for Real Madrid. Undoubtedly they are a team with the players to win the Champions League, and should Ronaldo and Ozil manage to click with new boy Modric in the attacking third they should be better than any team in the competition, just about..

1. BARCELONA Valdes - Alves, Pique, Puyol, Alba - Xavi, Busquets, Fabregas - Pedro, Messi, Iniesta
The most impressive team in the world over the last few years, their football is leaving a legacy and a blueprint for all teams to follow. The talents of the all conquering Spanish national team that includes  Iniesta, Fabregas, Xavi, Busquets and Pique are nicely topped off by the finest player of the last 30 years: Lionel Messi. Guardiola may have gone but new coach Vilanova has maintained the 4-3-3 system and philosophy that has seen Barcelona become one of the greatest teams of all time. Bet against them if you wish, but come May 2013 another Barcelona triumph at Wembley is the most likely scenario!

Is Australia still producing good footballers?

If you're an Australian football fan cast your mind back to the end of 2002. Harry Kewell and Mark Viduka were our two superstars but the Socceroos were struggling. They had just been beaten by the football nobodies of New Zealand and Australian football was in a bit of trouble, not only financially but also, it seemed, lacking of new talent. We seemed to have a lack of naturally talented players like Frank Farina, Ned Zelic, Paul Okon, Mark Bosnich and Aurelio Vidmar showcasing their skills at big European clubs. Does that sound familiar? Take a look at this:

There was Josip Skoko at little known Genk in Belgium
Vince Grella and Mark Bresciano were at provincial club Empoli in Italy's second division
Scott Chipperfield was playing in the unfashionable Swiss league
Tony Popovic was at lowly Crystal Palace in England's first division
Jason Culina was at modest Twente in Holland after being rejected by Ajax
Archie Thompson was struggling to adapt to life in Belgium
Tim Cahill and Lucas Neill were promising but playing for battling club Millwall in the Championship
Josh Kennedy was a trying to break through in second tier German football for Dynamo Dresden; and A little skinny Aussie kid called Luke Wilkshere was still an apprentice and cleaning boots at little Bristol City in the Championship.
This, believe it or not,  and with no disrespect meant, was our 'golden generation'.

Sure there were others like Aloisi, Emerton, Moore and Schwarzer doing well at other clubs in Europe but there was no doubt the Socceroos needed a shake up. Come 2005, the then Socceroos coach Frank Farina was hesitant to make a change to the team, preferring the tried and trusted players and formation over the various promising youngsters in Europe. Once again, sound familiar? 

Now fast forward to 2006 and the players mentioned above have become household names and heroes for the whole Australian football fraternity. They did what many considered impossible: qualified for the World Cup, knocked out traditional powerhouses Uruguay and Croatia and stretched the mighty Brazil and Italy all the way. In doing so they showed football intelligence and technique that many thought was beyond them. So what happened?

Firstly they had a coach that was prepared to give them a chance! When Guus Hiddink came into the Socceroos fold he immediately recognised the talents of Grella, Bresciano, Chipperfield and Culina etc and they became preferred first teamers. Superstar players they were not but smart players with technique and intelligence they certainly were. In addition to this the players evolved into battle hardened professionals in the fields of Europe over the previous two to three years for their various clubs.

Moving forward to the present time there are many in Australian football that believe we are not producing good players anymore and that the youngsters do not deserve their chance. Like the past Socceroos mentioned above however this generation of future Socceroos is learning, adapting, evolving and doing the hard yards in Europe. Like the generation before them, they cannot walk into a top European club and demand a first team spot. Only Harry Kewell could do that, and that type of player doesn't come around that often. It takes time, a few years of hard work and disappointments before finally, they are given their chance at a small club to make their name and a lucrative contract at a top club.

But in comparison to the previous generation are these youngsters as talented as their predecessors? The answer is yes, because based on their individual qualities and where they are at their current stages of their career it makes for some interesting reading. For example to name but a few:

- Nikita Rukavytsya, one of the fastest players this country has produced is playing in front of 60,000+ in Berlin for his club Hertha, and up to this season was a regular Bundesliga player
- Chris Herd combines tenacity with adaptability and is first choice in the Premier League for Aston Villa against the best in the world.
- Robbie Kruse is has dribbling qualities around the penalty box combined with finishing skills and is now starting for his German club in the Bundesliga no less.
- Matthew Leckie is the first Australian player I have seen combine power, speed and dribbling ability along with a goalscorers instinct and is impressing pundits on loan at Bundesliga 2.
- Mitch Langerak at Borussia Dortmund has all the qualities necessary to be a top goalkeeper for many years to come, from agility and reflexes to a commanding presence and is vying to be No.1 at arguably one of Europes top 10 clubs.
- Mustafa Amini, Langerak's club colleague has impressed enough with his playmaking abilities to make them offer him a first team contract.
- Adam Sarota is a midfielder with fine touch, crisp passing and a dominant presence in the middle fo the pitch and is now a regular starter in the Dutch first division for Utrecht
- Tommy Oar, Sarota's club colleague is also trying to break through as a starter and has been compared to Harry Kewell for his dribbling style. Furthermore he has impressed greatly at all the youth tournaments he has played in.
- James Troisi, recently bought by Juventus (!) is a left winger that although doesn't set the world alight with dribbling ability is one that provides stability and a threat on the flank.
- Rhys Williams is a tall versatile, fine tackling defender with composure on the ball and a mainstay for Middlesborough, and will very soon be an EPL player with so many suitors after him  
- Ryan McGowan is an adaptable defender, good header of the ball and first choice player at Hearts in the Scottish first division
- James Holland is a midfielder with fine technique and passing ability, currently a regular first teamer for his Austrian club Austria Wien
- Jason Davidson, son of Australia's greatest ever left back and also a left back, showed enough on his Socceroos debut to convince he has the goods. 
- Luke DeVere has been as solid as a rock in the Korean league and not only combines leadership with fine tackling but also with fine distribution.  
- Last but not least there is Tom Rogic, not in Europe yet but a player good enough to beat many hopefuls from around the world to win Nike's young talent award. His composure, touch, acceleration and ability to drift past players is reminiscent of Ned Zelic, but perhaps in a more advance position.

So in comparison to the previous golden generation when they were at similar stages of their career can we really state that Australia is no longer producing good players? I think that would be very harsh on the current generation when taking into account the reality of their predecessors humble beginnings in European football. To take the next step it it requires a coach to nurture and harness the talents into a fine team, and this is Holger Osieck's job. It also requires the good old battling underdog Aussie attitude to rise to the top and I can assure you these players are no different, they are of the same stock as the previous generation and they are determined to make it. And this season might just be their breakthrough year.

The question is when to make the change and give them regular game time for the Socceroos? In my mind as soon as these players command regular time at their European clubs they must be granted a starting spot ahead of the older stars. This in my mind does not represent a risk of failing to qualify for the World Cup as I have no doubt that these youngsters will perform better than the old guard.  Does a coach play a 30 something player who is clearly past his best in the leagues of the Middle East/Asia or a hungry, faster and promising youngster playing regularly in a top European club? It seems a no brainer. Guus did the latter and look what he achieved.. 

THE TOP 10 GREATEST PLAYERS EVER!

Naming your personal greatest players of all time is a sure way to start a football conversation between friends and there are always differing opinions. For the selection below I have adopted several criteria before deciding on the order.  The criteria that I have judged these players on includes their success and achievements, their style of play and their longetivity or impact on the game. The most important factor apart from their style of play is list of achievements. In my mind you cannot be labelled a great without success at the highest level (in World Cup/European Championships or Champions League football). Only players that have retired from football have been nominated, with the likes of Messi and Ronaldinho left out as they are still playing. Hence the following selection is my pick of the greatest players of all time.

1. PELE World Cup Winner 1958, 1962, 1970, 2 World Club Cups, scorer of 1200 goals, Voted athlete of the century by L'Equipe.

Pele was the most complete offensive player to ever play the game and could score in a variety of ways: right foot, left foot, headers, combination play or mesmerizing dribbling. To this day there has not been a striker with his imagination, speed of thought and balance to be able to match the master. Pele's ability to use both feet equally well, a trait that is uncommon in modern football, meant that he could open a multitude of options on a football pitch and made him extremely difficult to mark. His dribbling skills resulted in some of the most beautiful goals the world has ever seen with one of his finest being that fabulous goal against Sweden in the 1958 World Cup Final as a 17 year old, where he controlled the ball with his chest past his marker and lobbed another defender before blasting it into the net.  His longetivity in the game showed not only his supreme athletic ability and skills, but also crushes any arguments that he would not be as effective in the modern game. Quite simply a man of his skill, athleticism and football brain could play anywhere, anytime as he was always a step ahead of the rest. Most detractors of his ability will point out that there was more space to operate in back in the 1960's and 70's however he seemed to thrive in lesser space, with his quick reflexes and ability to stay one step ahead of his marker coming to the fore. And for all those that claim he would not be as effective a goalscorer in European football it is a fact that every time he faced European competition his effectiveness did not wane, like when he faced European Champions Benfica in the World Club Cup and destroyed them in a breathtaking display. Not even the masters of defensive catenaccio, the Italians, could stop him from scoring in the 1970 World Cup Final where his beautiful header remains one of the iconic moments of the World Cup. When he finally left his boyhood club Santos he went to the United States to help launch the North American Soccer League, culminating in winning the championship in front of a sold out Giants stadium. Scenes that sadly the USA has not experienced since but there is no doubt that Pele left a lasting legacy, not just in America but in the entire football world.

2. DIEGO MARADONA  World Cup Winner 1986, World Cup Runner Up 1990, 1 UEFA Cup,  Serie A champion

The only player that can say he single-handedly won the World Cup. Maradona's Argentine teammates, although decent football players, were not exactly the kind of players to win a World Cup. Maradona performed miracles in 1986 to take his country to World Cup victory. Two goals aginst England in the quarters, two goals against Belgium in the semi final, and an inspirational display in the final meant that Maradona entered football immortality. Maradona was a master dribbler and had a left foot that controlled the ball like no other in the history of the game. His touch on the ball was incredible and the ball looked like it was stuck to his boot. Diego's first touch almost always set him up in an attacking manner, before he set off on one of his mazy runs. His mazy and beautifully balanced solo goal against England in the 1986 World Cup was voted the greatest goal of the century. Maradona also showed many moments of genius throughout his club career for Barcelona and Napoli too. Added to his incredible skills was the heart of a leader, a player that could inspire a whole team to success with his fearless and inspirational play, as proven not only with Argentina in the 1986 and 1990 World Cups but also for Napoli in the Italian Championship. The sad thing with Diego was that his struggle for full fitness due to constant hacking by merciless defenders and his inappropriate personal life meant the world could not enjoy watching him in his prime for a few more years after his peak in 1986. But for all those that did see him in his prime he remains the purest footballer they ever saw, the player whose moves everyone wants to emulate either in the professional world or the amateur football side they play for.

3. JOHANN CRUYFF  World Cup runner up 1974, Champions League Winner 1971, 1972, 1973, Dutch/Spanish League champion

The captain and maestro of the fabulous Dutch side of 1974 that played what became known as Total Football and which remains the essence of the game today - players that can interchange positions with intelligence, skill to be able to both defend and attack and pressing high up the park. His leadership skills were second to none and was probably the smartest player to ever play the game, as his coaching career later showed. There was nothing on a football pitch that Cruyff could not do. He was a striker, a creator and a midfield organiser all in one. His blistering speed made him a menace throughout the pitch but in particular when he drifted to the wings, and his finishing skills meant that he could score in a number of ways. Whether it was spraying passes from the midfield, dribbling from anywhere on the pitch or scoring chances that came his way Cruyff looked comfortable doing it all. The biggest shame for Cruyff is that the he didn't participate in more World Cups, with Germany 74 being the only time he graced the world's greatest competition. A threat to his life meant that he chose not to attend the 78 World Cup in Argentina, and one can only wonder whether he could have balanced the final in Holland's favour against Argentina. His displays for Ajax and Barcelona will forever be remembered however and he is affectionately known as the father of the playing style played by both of those clubs. Watch Ajax or Barcelona today and you will see Cruyff's legacy: pressing, quick ball circulation, attacking with wingers, defenders comfortable in possession and attackers willing to defend being the hallmark of the playing philosophy. 

 

4. ZINEDINE ZIDANE  World Cup winner 1998, World Cup runner up 2006, European Cup 2000, Champions League Winner 2002

Watching Zizou play was like watching a puppet master in action on a football field. He was a midfielder that could control a tempo of a team and combine it with incredible skills and tricks to evade his marker and score or create chances. Not only did he have the attacking skills of a classic number 10, he could also drop deeper and lift his team by picking up the ball in midfield and move the team forward with fantastic combination play. His list of achievements sums up his talent, at his peak he was unstoppable and was incredibly inspirational for both club and country. Zidane made his name with Juventus in the Italian championship and twice was a losing Champions League finalist with them. His days at Real Madrid however coincided with the club's 'galactico' era and resulted in some of the finest football the world has ever seen, albeit for a relatively short time as far as winning eras go. In 2002 he scored one of the finest goals ever seen in Champions League finals history to help Madrid take the crown. He was also the man that finally laid to rest France's past ghosts of previous failed World Cup campaigns, when in 1998 he inspired the team to World Cup immortality with his two finely taken headers against Brazil. His importance to the team was made obvious in 2002 when his absence from the first two matches resulted in France getting knocked out in the first round. Zidane would most likely have made amends in 2006 when once again inspiring France to the World Cup final only to ruin it all with his sending off in extra time due to his crazy headbutt on Materazzi of Italy. Hopefully he will not be remembered for that moment of madness but for his artistic and effective play that helped him achieve everything the game has to offer.

5. MICHEL PLATINI   European Cup Winner 1984, Champions League 1985,  Italian League champion 

Platini's greatest weapon was his vision and passing ability. People currently talk of Xavi's strength in this area however Platini hardly ever played the square or easy pass backwards, his passing was usually effective, stylish and penetrating. The master of through balls and accurate passes, curved either with the outside or inside of the foot, he was also a constant scoring threat from his attacking midfield position. Not only did he have a great shot from outside the box but also used his vision and football brain to time his run to the penalty box. He was either organising the team's attacking moves or scoring in all sorts of ways and it was therefore always difficult to contain him. Platini was also a master of the free kick and a great deal of his goals came from dead ball situations and created many assists for his teammates. He played the game with an elegance and ease that all champions of sport seem to possess. His 9 goals in the European Championships of 84 is unsurpassed, and like Maradona just about won the World Cup practically on his own, Platini can claim to have won the 1984 European Championships almost single handedly. At Juventus he became a legend and its sad that his talents were not quite enough to enable him to win the World Cup. Two semi-final appearances in the 1982 and 1986 World Cups however are a testament to his talents and that of the fine French team he was surrounded by. He was also a fine leader and communicator on the pitch and now uses those skills as president of UEFA. 

6. FRANZ BECKENBAUER   World Cup Winner 1974, World Cup runner up 1966, European Cup Winner 1972,  Champions League winner 1974,1975,1976 

The original and best sweeper of all time. His calmness under pressure, reading of the game, defensive skills and surging runs forward made him the perfect prototype of what a sweeper should be. A champion that could play the game in the right way, always fair in defence and a creative force when his team had the ball. Beckenbauer first showcased his skills to the world in midfield during the 1966 and 1970 World Cups, where his surging runs forward and fine distribution of the ball where a sight to behold. But it was in the 1970's where he found his niche, playing as a sweeper for his club Bayern Munich and the West German national team, resulting in an extremely successful period for German football. 3 consecutive Champions League wins with Bayern Munich and a World Cup on home soil, and all within a 3 year period reflect 'The Kaiser's' impact on the game. Also helped the game to grow in the United States when starring for the New York Cosmos alongside Pele. Beckenbauer went on to show his leadership skills when becoming the first man to captain and coach a team to World Cup glory. Still remains a fine ambassador for football all around the world.

7. RONALDO  World Cup Winner 1994, 2002, World Cup Runner 1998, 1 UEFA Cup, Spanish League Champion, all- time top scorer of World Cup goals 

The word used to describe Ronaldo by the world's media was 'phenomenon' and that description certainly did justice to his explosive kind of play. His incredible speed and athleticism combined with his close ball control skills whilst running at full speed meant that when Ronaldo had the ball he was danger with a capital D to all defenders facing him!  I have never seen any other striker been able to simply sprint through a four-man defence before calmly slotting the ball away past a keeper. His form for Barcelona in the season leading up to the 1998 World Cup was truly phenomenal. Goals were scored in a variety of ways and made him the most wanted man in world football. People still wonder whether Brazil would have won the 1998 World Cup had Ronaldo not have suffered his infamous seizure prior to the final against France, as he was in sensational form during the tournament. Ronaldo went on to star in the Italian league for Inter Milan before a succession of knee injuries forced him to remodel his game, but he still remained a goalscoring machine. In 2002 he made amends for the disappointment of 1998 when he finished up as that years World Cup top goalscorer and champion. A transfer to Real Madrid made a significant contribution to the club's 'galactico' era. Ronaldo returned to World Cup action in 2006 and further goals meant he became the competitions all time top goalscorer.  His incredible goalscoring rate all through his career showed what a true champion he was, but the world will always wonder just how good he might have been had he not had the knee injuries that beleaguered him during his career.

8. FERENC PUSKAS World Cup Runner Up 1954, Champions League Winner 1959, 1960, 1966,

 

One of the most one-footed players in the game but what a foot. His left boot could score from any angle and distance and his goalscoring prowess was second to none. Puskas will always be remembered for that drag-back goal at Wembley for Hungary where he made the English defence look second rate in a 6-3 mauling at Wembley, and was one of the biggest surprises in the history of world football. Puskas goals assisted Real Madrid to amass an unsurpassed 5 consecutive Champions Leagues during the late 1950s. Puskas could not only score with his famous left boot however he actually moved quite well for a man of his stature. He used his brain to get into the right positions, was a clever dribbler and when the opportunity arose he would unleash his trademark left boot to put the ball in the net.  He also had the presence of mind to be able to play in others around him in goalscoring positions. Had he not have been injured during the 1954 World Cup he most likely would have had a World Cup to his name also. He did however play in the final aginst West Germany and scored a goal but it was not enough to stop the Germans creating one of the greatest surprises in World Cup history. His club career however was full of incredible achievements and a lot less disappointments and without him Real Madrid quite simply would not be the club it is today.

9. ALFREDO DI STEFANO    Champions League Winner 1956, 1957, 1958, 1959, 1960, Spanish League Champion.

Like Puskas, Alfredo Di Stefano's  greatness helped make Real Madrid the club they are today. A total footballer before Johann Cruyff’s Dutch team came along, he was the catalyst and inspiration of the great Madrid team that won an unsurpassed 5 consecutive Champions Leagues. All attacking moves went through him and his simple yet effective and elegant style was one to behold. He could pick up the ball from deep and build up attacking plays but he was also deadly in front of goal. He never loooked rushed, when opponents tried to get him off the ball he would use his skills and tricks, when the opposition backed away he would weave intricate combinations with teammates that would result in making Real Madrid the greatest team of that era. Added to the skills and passing was his ability to play with both right and left feet, which like Pele would open up a wealth of options on the pitch. The only man on the list not to play at the World Cup (he was injured in 1962 which meant he could not play for Spain) his club achievements and style makes him a must for any top 10 list.

10. MARCO VAN BASTEN   European Cup Winner 1988, Champions League Winner 1989, 1990, UEFA Cup 1987

Like Beckenbauer was the perfect prototype of a sweeper, Van Basten was the perfect prototype of what a centre-forward should be. A disciple of Johann Cruyff, he could score with his right foot, left foot, headers, brought others into the game and had a touch that enabled him to get away from defenders, or shield the ball from the heavy marking he always received. When Van Basten played for AC Milan it resulted in the finest era of the club, winning 2 consecutive Champions Leagues and forming a formidable partnership with Ruud Gullit at club and international level. Although Van Basten's form in the 1990 World Cup was not great he will always be remembered for his fine display at the 1988 European Championships, where he finished as top scorer by scoring a hat-trick against England in the group stage and the winner against Germany in the semi final. His incredible volley goal in the final against the Soviet Union (pictured) is probably the most stunning goal of all time. Although many think it was a fluke, his fine technique did not put such goals out his capability. Van Basten didn't score in the 1992 European Championships but he showed his class once again on many occasions during the tournament with the Dutch reaching the semis, before being knocked ot by Denmark in one of the greatest Euro surprises. His performance against the Germans in the group stage was one to savour. He was deprived of further international action by a cruel ankle injury sustained by many years of close man to man marking, which brought his career to a premature end before the age of 30. Van Basten's smooth and technical style was so impressive that it has led to many strikers since being compared to him.

Viva Espana!

Seeing Spain dismantle Italy 4-0 in the final of the European Championships was a performance almost as good as Barcelona's annihilation of Manchester United in last year's Champions League final. It was the icing on the cake of an absolutely fantastic tournament and a moment to savour for all Spanish football fans. The tournament was closely fought between all teams and it is hard to recollect a Euro in recent memory where no team went home humiliated by heavy defeats or showed they were out of their depth. Every team in this tournament proved their worth, whether it was the surprising Czechs, Danes and Greeks, or the heavyweights Germany, Spain and Italy. 

The Winners

It was clear to the smart observers out there that Spain was not going full throttle for the first few games, and used their possession game to maybe conserve some energy for the knockout games. Spain won the tournament with the type of football that football purists really appreciate. Apart from the semi final game against Portugal where they struggled to break down the Portuguese defence, mainly due to the great defensive work of Pepe and Contreau, the football they played overall in the tournament was  threatening and pleasing to the eye. 

It was surprising to hear commentators call their game boring, mostly because it consists of so many passes. Just writing that makes me laugh!  For anyone that has ever played the game the successful completion of 3, 5 or maybe 10 passes is considered an achievement. The rhythm and confidence that it gives a team  cannot be described on paper but those that have played the game understand the value and realise that it is the hardest part of the game to achieve other than scoring. It requires the teammates to be intelligent with their positioning, in harmony with their  movement and the perfect technique to successfully complete the pass. In simple terms, it is the essence of the game. 

So it is a surprise to many that when a team comes along and achieves above 20 passes on a consistent basis they are suddenly labelled ‘boring’. For the educated football fans its the games whereby teams struggle to keep the ball for more than 5 seconds that is the boring kind of game. That is a game that shows teams not being up to the required standard of technique and tactical intelligence. 

That Spain was able to consistently perform their tiki taka type of football is not boring. In fact it is the opposition that backs off and retreats to their penalty box that makes the game one dimensional. All credit to Italy and Portugal however for not resorting to those tactics and helping to provide two football spectacles in the semis and final. What Spain was able to show was football at its purest, complete mastery of the ball and the opponent. 

The philosophy is simple and not revolutionary, keep possession and wait for the right moment to strike, for it will surely present itself. It is not possible for a defence to continually plug the gaps and prevent the opposition from scoring for a whole 90 minutes if the attacking team is willing to use the ball smartly and dominate possession. This is the ethos of Spanish and Brazilian football and long may it prosper! 

 

Tactics

On the point of waiting for the right moment to strike, Spain's use of the 'false 9', a system that utilises a centre-forward who can drop into midfield, take his markers with him and create space behind them, was criticised by lots of sections of the football media. Although it is not my preferred system, Barcelona who are the experts of this system with the mercurial Messi, have showed the devastating effect it can have if the players and in particularly the midfielders/wingers are able to manoeuvre into the right positions and execute the right runs into the box. As most of Spain's players come from the Barcelona school they have been able to transfer this tactic onto the international stage. 

Italy's return to the the 3-5-2 system and the midfield diamond was another tactical system that shone in the tournament. England played with a very organised and rigid 4-4-2, defending deep with the two banks of four as described in the English press. Germany made good use of the 4-2-3-1 system showing their usual bewildering speed and interchange in the attacking third, particularly in their last two games. Portugal employed a strict 4-3-3, relying on their wingers to provide attacking thrust and the Russians likewise. Greece showed the art of the counterattack lives on in Greek football from 2004 although they did show more adventure than usual, and the French showed attacking flair in the final third with their version of the 4-3-3 but resorted to negative 4-5-1 tactics in the quarter final.

 

Talking Points 

One of the highlights of the tournament was Andrea Pirlo's cheeky penalty in the shootout against England that was executed to perfection and with his usual class that he showed throughout the tournament. In my mind he was the player of the tournament, even though his usually effective game was drowned out in the final by the bevvy of Spanish midfield maestros. 

The Dutch showed that the art of in-house fighting lives on in the Dutch camp. Until the Dutch can finally produce players with lesser egos they will always be an unpredictable side in tournaments. The Greeks on the other hand showed fighting spirit and determination to show their worth. The Germans defence was found out against top class opposition as previously predicted and the Portuguese showed their over-reliance on Cristiano Ronaldo, a role that he enjoys a bit too much. Unfortunately for him he once again failed to deliver when the big game arrived. Balotelli of Italy displayed an immaturity and unsporting behaviour that may prove self-destructive in the future. Goal of the tournament goes to Zlatan Ibrahimovic's strike against France.

 

Best XI

                   Casillas

Torosidis Pepe   Ramos Alba

   Xavi       Pirlo         Iniesta

Silva         Fabregas   Ronaldo 

Emerging talent 

                   Hart

Debuchy  Bonucci Hummels Strinic

Cabaye  Montolivo  Kroos

Dzagoev Mandzukic  Reus

Socceroos Must Evolve

The Oman vs Australia game was a frustrating one to watch for many Australian football fans, but according to the mainstream media it was a point gained rather than two points lost on the way to qualification for the 2014 World Cup.

It has become apparent to many supporters however that unless certain things change, then not only are the Socceroos going to suffer defeat in Brisbane against Japan on Tuesday  but they will also seriously struggle to gain points for the rest of the final qualification phase. What became apparent in the Oman game is that there are a number of issues that need to be addressed by the coach Holger Osieck.

Team Selection:
There were so many team selection questions raised from that performance, that it was surprising Holger Osieck was not quizzed further about this matter after the game by the media. The comment he made prior to the game was that he picked the best, most in-form and fittest players at his disposal at that time, so...
- Why was Nikita Rukavytsya, who has played a full season against the world's best players in the Bundesliga, not given a minute against Oman or at least a half to show his worth in the friendly against Denmark?
- Why were Harry Kewell and Archie Thompson, who have not played competitive football since February, leading the line in attack?
- Why were Wilskhire and McKay, two of the most industrious but unimaginative wide players, given the task of unlocking the Omani defence on the flanks?
- Why was Robbie Kruse chosen in the last 15 minutes to get the team a goal when he has not played a minute of competitive football in the last six months? And chosen ahead of two of the most reliable goalscorers we have in Cahill and Kennedy?
- Why was Ognenovski chosen ahead of Rhys Williams, who is on the radar of English Premier League clubs and can contribute to building up from the back unlike the former?
- Jade North ahead of Milligan, Williams or Spiranovic?
Quite simply on this occasion Holger's team selection was wrong.  

The heat factor:
For the last few years both the players and the coaching staff have been making it very clear how difficult it is to play in the searing heat of the Gulf nations, particularly this last game against Oman. Granted, the facts don't lie and no one can dispute that the Socceroos faced stifling conditions. Having said that however it does not excuse the team to resign to deep sitting tactics and the use of the long ball to launch attacks. Korea played in similar conditions in Qatar and managed a convincing 4-1 win. So how do the Socceroos who once took pride in being one of the fittest teams on the planet, equipped with the latest in sports medicine, experience of playing in similar conditions and, given close to a week to acclimatise, suffer so much in the heat? Seeing the once brave Socceroos sitting deep, inviting Omani midfielders to enter our half and showing way too much respect to opposition we should be comfortably beating was disappointing.

Its as if the players talk themselves into thinking that sitting back and getting out with a 1-0 win is a good tactical game, however this is not synonymous with Australian football and leaves the door open for surprises against minnows. Its a mindset from Pim Verbeek that still lingers unfortunately.

The age factor: 
As much as it pains me to say this it surely has to be the end of the road for most of the 2006 stalwarts. One of the reasons the team may have played so deep and tried hard to conserve their energy in the heat is probably due to the realisation that their legs cannot carry them like they once could. To be two years out of the 2014 World Cup and still be relying on the 2006 team to get us there shows a complete lack of evolution in the Australian team. The talent is there, even though many pundits dispute it, for the Socceroos to have evolved into a young, technical and attacking Australian team once again. It is mysterious that young talents like Herd and Rukavytsya, who for the past year have been performing at the highest level, have not been integrated into the team yet. To have a line up of many Socceroos past their physical prime in stifling conditions was asking for trouble. Schwarzer, Neill, Ognenovski, Bresciano, Kewell, Cahill and Thompson all being over 30 and past their peak act as a massive anchor for the team. So much has been said about Bresciano's contribution in the last few games but can we really expect him to dominate the midfield in 2014 World Cup games at the age of 35? No, alternatives must be given their chance now.

Long Ball:
Australian football in the last six years has not been able to come close to the football played under Guus Hiddink's reign. The team in 2005/6 played a short passing and high tempo game and defended high up the park. What we are now used to seeing from the Socceroos sadly is cautious tactical football with only a few passing combinations in the midfield and in the attacking third. To see the ball played from Ognenovski to Neill and then a long ball up the park, or the ball distributed unimaginatively to Wilkshire or Carney on the wings and a speculative cross to the forwards, is a step backwards in our style of play and one that many football fans recognise does not do the football talent of the country justice. Everyone knows that the Aussie team CAN play great football, but its up to Holger Osieck and the players to ensure that they do.

My preferred Line-up:
                     Schwarzer
Wilkshire Neill  Williams   Carney
                 Valeri   Herd  
 Brosque        Holman    Rukavytsya    
                      Kennedy
 Subs: Langerak, Spiranovic, Milligan, Kilkenny/Sarota, Cahill, Kruse

This team would surely have more movement in the attacking third, dangerous pace on the wings and better passing combinations through the back and midfield then the one that played against Oman.

Belgium: A Coach Short of a Rising Force!

There is one team in Europe that will not be present at the Euros this summer that has the potential to have a big impact at the next World Cup. That team is Belgium. 

Renowned for their wonderful talents of the 1980’s and 90’s and  a successful World Cup and European record during that time, not much has gone right for the Red Devils since. Looking back at their history of players during that time its a who’s who of European football legends: Eric Gerets, Ludovic Koeck, Marc Vercauteren, Jan Caulemans, Enzo Scifo, Michel Preudhomme and Marc Wilmots all left a significant mark on the European stage.

 

Since then however the talent pool dried up and Belgian football went into steady decline. The 2000’s have proven to be fruitless years for the Belgians with little success or recognition on the international stage.

 

The current crop of young players making their mark at club and international level however look set to change all that in the near future. In goals the young 19 year old Atletico keeper Courtouis had a splendid season showing real class, maturity and reflexes. His performace in the Europa League Final was one of maturity and presence, amazing for someone so young.  The defence is stocked with well renowned players playing at the highest level. Vermaelen of Arsenal and Kompany of Man City form a formidable partnership at centre back, with the highly rated Ajax captain Vertonghen plays at left back. At right back, Aldeweireld also playing at Ajax, has shown glimpses of potential at the highest level.

 

The midfield has the irrepressible Fellaini of Everton and a player I hugely admire, Axel Witsel of Benfica pulling the strings. He is one of those midfielders that seems to have it all, able to dictate the play and score but also work hard and cover the defence. On the wings is probably the most wanted man in European football at the moment, Eden Hazard, hugely skilful and capable of frequent scoring. Mertens of PSV has had an outstanding season and reminds me of Marc Overmars with his small stature and pace on the dribble. The talented youngster DeBruyne has recently been signed by no less than Champions League winners Chelsea.

 

The striking department has the young striker of Olympiacos Mirailas who has has also had an outstanding and prolific season. Partnered with Dembele of Fulham, Belgium on paper looks like a dangerous team with skilful imaginative attacking players and an experienced and solid defence. The highly rated Chelsea youngster Lukaku also waits for his chance should he develop into the striker people predict he will be.

 

Their results thus far may not have been spectacular and they are currently without a full time coach, but should the Belgian Football Association get it right and appoint the right man to guide this young and talented team, they should be able to qualify and make a mark at the next World Cup in Brazil 2014.  Belgium has a high profile friendly match against England this weekend. Regardless of the result, the appointment of the right coach in the very near future might see Belgium as a rising force on the world stage once more. 

EURO 2012 PREVIEW

With the European Championships around the corner it's worth having a look at the strengths and weaknesses of each team and evaluate their likely line-ups.  Every international tournament springs surprises and the likes of Greece, Denmark, Ireland and Ukraine will be hopeful they might be the ones this time round however the playing field seems to be stronger than ever.  The heavyweights of Spain and Germany appear too strong on paper and in terms of current form but if there's anything this European league season has taught us, it's that anything is possible with luck and a good game plan.. 


Group A

Group A is probably the most open of the four groups. The battle for top spot is likely to be between Poland and Greece however Russia may cause a surprise as they did at Euro 2008. The Czech Republic lacks the quality to progress further.

 

Poland:  4-2-3-1 Szczesny; Piszcek Wasilewski Perquis Warwzyniak; Polanski Murawski; Blaszykowski Obraniak Peszko; Lewandowski 

Strengths: Home ground advantage, a centre forward in top form, a fine goalkeeper 

Weaknesses: Lack of experience at this level, fans pressure and lack of midfield quality

Watch out for: Scezcny, Piszcek, Lewandowski

 

Greece: 4-3-3 Tzorvas; Torosidis  Papadopoulos Papastathopoulos Holebas; Karagounis, Katsouranis Tziolis; Ninis Gekas Samaras

Strengths: Creative attacking mids/strikers, patience that is required at this level, a more attacking attitude than the past

Weaknesses: New defence lacks experience at international level, lack of speed in transition.  

Watch out for: Papastathopoulos, Ninis, Samaras

 

Russia:   4-4-2 Malafeev; Anyukov Berezutsky Ignashevich Zhirkov; Denisov Semshov Zyryanov Dzakoev; Arshavin Pavlyuchenko

Strengths: Experience from Euro 2008, good crowd support, tricky forwards.  

Weaknesses: Key players past their best, loss of surprise element 

Watch out for: Berezutsky, Arshavin, Pavlyuchenko

Czech R.:   4-5-1 Cech; GebreSelasie Sivok Kadlec Limbersky; Stajner Plasil Rosicky Jiracek Rezek ; Baros

Strengths: A goalkeeper in top form, organisation, swift counter attacks

Weaknesses: No real X-factor, if Rosicky is kept quiet then lack of creativity will hinder them.  

Watch out for: Cech, Kadlec, Rosicky

Group B

The Group of Death! The Germans will most likely dominate however Holland and Portugal will push them all the way. Winner of these two will be very dangerous in knockout rounds.The Danes will also cause an upset at some point.

 

Germany   4-2-3-1 Neuer; Lahm Boateng Hummels Badstuber; Schweinsteiger Khedira; Ozil Reus Podolski; Gomez

 

Strengths: Extremely quick transition into attack, abundant world class options in attack, movement in final third

Weaknesses: Defence not up to standard of predecessors, a tough first round group may push them hard too early

Watch out for: Hummels, Ozil, Reus

Holland    4-3-3 Stekelenburg; VDWiel Heitinga Mathijsen Anita; Strootman VBommel Snejder; Kuyt VPersie Robben

Strengths: Familiarity with system, exceptional strikers, team with lots of experience at the highest level 

Weaknesses: Left back a problem, Sneijder and Kuyt not the players of 2 years ago, clash with Portugal a must win 

Watch out for: VDWiel, Strootman, Van Persie

Portugal   4-3-3 Patricio; Bosingwa Alves Pepe Contreao; Moutinho Veloso Meireles; Nani Postiga Ronaldo 

Strengths: The form of Ronaldo, very dangerous wingers, solid and technical midfield and defence  

Weaknesses: Lack of international class centre forward and goalkeeper.  

Watch out for: Pepe, Moutinho, Ronaldo

Denmark  4-3-3 Sorensen; Jacobsen Kjaer Agger Poulsen; Eriksen Kvist Zimling; Rommehdahl Bendtner KrohnDehli  

 

Strengths: Fast hungry players, experts of the 4-3-3 system, directness  

Weaknesses: Defence will be severely tested, placed in Group of Death, over-reliance on wing play

Watch out for: Agger, Eriksen, Bendtner

Group C

Spain is the hot favourite for the tournament and only Italy can seriously test them from this group. Croatia are not to be underestimated and have the class to progress but Ireland may find themselves out of their league. 

 

Spain:   4-2-3-1  Casillas; Arbeloa Ramos Pique Alba; Xavi Alonso; Silva Fabregas Iniesta; Soldado  

Strengths: Ball possession, combination play, most technical players in Europe, strongest midfield in the world. 

Weaknesses: Possible rift between Madrid/Barcelona players, loss of Puyol in defence and Villa in attack

Watch out for: Iniesta, Fabregas, Soldado.

Italy  4-4-2 Buffon; Abate Barzagli Bonucci Chiellini; Marchisio Pirlo Montolivo DeRossi ; Cassano Balotelli

 

Strengths: Tactical discipline, strong options in midfield, unpredictable in attack

Weaknesses: Centre backs not proven on international stage, lack of width in attack

Watch out for: Pirlo, Cassano, Balotelli 

 

Croatia    4-4-2 Pletikosa; Corluka Simunic Schildenfeld Vida; Srna, Modric, Kranjcar Rakitic; Mandzukic Jelavic

Strengths: Skilful playmakers, dangerous forwards,

Weaknesses: Do not respond well to adversity, defenders likely to overdo fouls, drawn against two super powers

Watch out for: Corluka, Modric, Jelavic

Ireland     4-4-2 Given; Kelly O'Shea Dunne Ward; McClean Whelan Andrews Duff; Keane Doyle

Strengths: Coach with vast experience and tactical ability, fighting quality of team, defensive organisation.  

Weaknesses: Lack of a quality centre forward, key players past their peak, majority of players untested at this level

Watch out for: O'Shea, McClean, Keane,

Group D

Group D should be a fight between France and England. England can expect Rooney to play like an uncaged lion when he returns from suspension but both they and France do have their weaknesses. Ukraine/Sweden lack the necessary quality to beat them but anything is possible with the right tactical plan and will provide stern tests.  

 

France    4-2-3-1 Lloris; Koscielny Mexes Rami Evra; Cabaye MVila; Nasri Valbuena Ribery; Benzema 

Strengths: Hungry and determined to make amends for disappointing World Cup, lethal world class players in attack.

Weaknesses: Lack of experience in midfield, loss of Sagna and Abidal in defence due to injury 

Watch out for: Rami, Ribery, Benzema

England   4-2-3-1  Hart; Johnson Cahill Terry Cole; Lampard Barry; Walcott Gerrard Young; Rooney

 

Strengths: Expereinced and talented players all over the pitch, the form of Chelsea players

Weaknesses: Coach appointed too late, loss of playmaker (Wilshere), loss of Rooney for first 2 games due to suspension

Watch out for: Cole, Gerrard, Rooney

Ukraine   4-4-2  Piyatov; Kusher Rakitskiy Shevchuk Mikhalik; Gusev Rotan Tymoschenko Yarmolenko; Voronin Shevchenko

Strengths: Home support, surprise element, core of Shaktar players experienced in Champions League football  

Weaknesses: lack of creative midfielder, poor current form, loss of goalkeeper due to injury, forwards well past their best

Watch out for: Shevchuk, Timoschenko, Shevchenko

Sweden    4-4-2 Issakson; Grandqvist Mellberg Olsson Olsson; Elm Kjallstrom Svensson Toivonen; Elmander Ibrahimovic

Strengths: The form of Ibrahimovic, tactical organisation, always tough to beat. 

Weaknesses: Two old and mighty adversaries in their group, back four not up to international standard

Watch out for: Mellberg, Kjallstrom, Ibrahimovic

 

PREDICTION There is no one in the world willing to bet against Spain and Germany meeting in the final, however should Italy and Portugal advance into the knockout rounds from their tough groups I expect them to provide a serious challenge to the favourites in the semi finals. Greece is my tip of the 'smaller' nations to cause a major upset. 

I believe Spain will take out the title once more, there is simply too much class through the team and they are all on the same wavelength and play fantastic football. Only a game of missed scoring opportunities can stop them.