Copa America: Argentina vs USA Pregame

I think it is a tragedy that Basile has given veron a starting position. The biggest TRAGEDY of all, TEVEZ is on the bench.

I honestly dont care if this works out or not. VERON has no future for this team and i dont even know why he is selected. Now he starts??? amazing. BASILE has been using MESSI in the wrong position since he has been the coach.

COCO used him as a striker the first two games, against brazil and spain, and it was sad. Then he had him as a playmaker (which he was okay in) and now he is switching him back to striker. It seems to me this guy doesnt know what he is doing with Messi. Messi, TEVEZ and CRESPO needs to start, with messi droping back to play as playmaker with riquelme.

at least thats my take on it.

Argentina is going to win big they are going to win by 2 or more goals.

Messi will be the star of the game.

The tactics that Coco has in his mind better work this time around. The last time it did work was in ‘93 and obviously times have changed dramatically since then.

Regarding Messi – its obvious he’s not an out and out striker. Carlitos is not either – but he is more of a forward than Messi. Messi deserves a free role right behind the 2 strikers in conjunction with Riquelme. This would be ideal with 2 #5s operating behind Riquelme and Messi – Mascherano and Gago/Cambiasso a little further to help distribute the ball.

Veron who doesn’t go up a lot and lacks pace on the right side, will only make things worse because he’ll clash with Zanetti/Ibarra because both those right backs like to join in attack whenever possible.

Sure Mascherano can cover for Zanetti when Zanetti joins in attack, but its too much to ask of Mascherano. He did this very well for Sorin, but there was also another true #5 helping Mascherano out.

Messi has previously gone missing in important games when played as a forward – against Brazil. I don’t know what Coco is thinking. If Messi is not effective, does he sub Messi and bring on Tevez OR does he move Messi to midfield, take Veron off and bring in Tevez?

What do you think?

I am a bit surprised with the team. Veron and Riquelme together does not make much sense to me either. I was thinking if Riquelme has a horrible day, he would be subbed by Aimar or Veron.

We are taking pace out of the game. Also Messi likes free space in front of him for him to run with the ball. As a striker he will get some space but that will take him out of the field. Right now this is what I am playing in FIFA-2007 that I have

—Pato—

–Zanetti-Ayala-Milito-Heinze–

———Mascherano———–

–Messi————–Lucho—-

———-Riquelme————-

——-Crespo—–Tevez——-

I was hoping more in these lines. If we do not play attacking against USA who will we against?

Debasish…

1 – Basile loves to play double number 5s. esp with Zanetti who will move forward, there has to be another forward who can scale back and Cambiasso is much better suited for that than Lucho.

2 – I like your idea on the fact Messi needs space to operate and move around but simply put, he cannot play as part of the diamond in mid field. Messi is more of a guy who needs the ball and likes to run with it. The players who play in the diamond (players supporting Riquelme) need to be able to do 3 things:

a) stagger their runs so Riquelme (enganche) gets to control the field and always form a triangle around the number 10 – providing an outlet to pass the ball and keep the chain of passes going

b) one touch passing and not needing to have/dominate the ball to be effective

c) strong tackler on the ball / pace to come back and help the D when required

personally, given the above, I would think Maxi fits in perfectly. But, he’s hurt. I don’t like Veron in this role especially as the whole lineup lacks pace but he is better suited to playing behind the enganche than Messi is.

what you will see Basile doing is have Messi play behind Crespo so that will allow Messi the freedom to run at his opponents and also form a higher triangle with Riquelme (with Cambiasso supporting attacks on the left; and with Veron/Zanetti when attacking from the right side).

Once again i just have to think that basile knows what he is doing. i belevie that he is building the team around Messi and Roman and what he thinks that they need. To me the line up lacks a little pace but it should allow messi and roman to concentrate on offense. If Messi and Riquleme can develope a partnership it could be devastating. One sub and you could change the whole look of the team so the line up does generate some flexibility. For example you could insert tevez for Veron at half and boom you come out with a completely different look and slide Messi back. i agree that is is hard to see Tevez not start but I think that Tevez Aimar and Lucho will be very important subs if not starters by the end of the tournament. Also rememeber that if we can win a couple of games you could rest Roman and Messi in the last group game. Go Argentina My line up

Pato
ZanettiAyala MilitoHeinze
Mascherano
Lucho Roman Messi

Tevez
Milito

hi guys…

I have recently moved to Vanouver in BC, Canada and I am really struggling o find somewhere to watch my beloved Argentina play!!

Does anybody know anywhere i can watch the game this Thursday? Please help as I am struggling!!

Watch it online: http://livefooty.doctor-serv.com/

They’re also showing it on Sky Sports and Fox Sports Canada should be showing it as well. Fox Sports Espanol definitely is showing it.

guys it is Goal TV that is showinig it. go to thier website goaltv and they can give you a connection there or watch it on TV but this is not covered by foxsoccer channel but goal TV . Good Luck

Argentine Press Infuriated By US “Bigheadedness”

Sports daily Olé have sparked off a row ahead of Thursday’s clash between the USA and Argentina.

They carried a report about the US media once again over-rating their own team, and disrespecting the albiceleste.

What has really upset the Argentines is the fact that the US Socer Federation have declared the match against Argentina to be of less importance by suggesting that their top team will not feature in the game.

The talk is focused more on the Mexicans than on the two time World Cup winners, and the Argentine press have latched on to this.

They believe that the Americans have let winning the Gold Cup against their regional rivals get to their heads.

The one word that they have sent to the Americans… “Beware”.

toddutah,
Imo, resting the first team can cause Argentina to lose its rhythm and momentum (like what happened in the game against Netherlands in WC06).

Instead I would like the first team to start every game but in a possibly unimportant game (only the 3rd group match can be unimportant), experiment as much as it leaves the core attack in place.

I think Riquelme and Messi will be the stars of the game against USA. I predict a 3-1 win for Argentina. The team, as I said before, I am not happy with Veron playing. Tevez should be on the pitch in stead if him.

Hey i am from the USA and i love the team but i would say that if the USA is not going to bring thier A team then they shold not get an invite. This is very disrespectful and i hope that the USA gets embarrasssed. How could youi send a b team to go and face one the the great world futbol powers. Would the USA send this team to the Confederations cup? Very dissapointed in my country.

Eva,

TLN (telelatino) will be showing it for sure. If you want to watch it on a TV screen, check for any Italian Sports Bars/Bakeries in your area.

It’s a pretty safe bet that all the Italian sports bars/bakeries with a TV have TLN. At least here in Toronto, I have no problem finding Italian sports bars/bakeries. I imagine it would be the same in Vancouver.

Toddutah, i agree with you pretty much. as well as skywalker’s comments. That’s pretty much how good teams play.

My only guess for Veron in the line-up is perhaps to make it difficult for teams to focus solely on Riquelme – as there will be 2 creative playmakers for the opposition to worry about.

Embarrass us if you can!!! We will see on Thursday.

The fact is Argentina is just a team of stars on paper. On paper you guys will beat anyone. But in reality, you guys cant beat not even an average European team.

When was the last time you guys beat a European team with some history in a World Cup? Now don’t tell me “Serbia”.

You guys wont even beat our B team convincingly. Your Messi and Tevez just look good in you tube.com, not as match winners.

Dont even dare to despise us, you paper clowns!!. And dont try to blame the refrees after the game saying :

“We would have won against USA, but the refrees, and FIFA and Blatter….”

Oh god!!Not another idiot.
Hey, Donovan, are you Ali in disguise??

lol probably

toduttah, i was referring to your comment about Basile.

Donovan — About Argentina? ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha hahaha ha ha ha hahahhaha haha ha haha.

I guess you have zero experience of reading how every single European team looks at Argentina and BRazil with real awe and respect (this is not to say that they fear Arg and BRazil), but it’s pretty obvious who the teams are that provoke the most admiration across the board, regardless of what happened in the last WC)

Seriously though, I agree with ToddUtah. This move by the US is pretty disrespectful. The Copa America is a very prestigious tournament, and they are ther by invitation. This is also a pretty stupid move by the US soccer fed, in terms of trying to develop the team. Their WC qualifying group is always a joke, and how many times have they played Mexico, for God’s sakes. They really could have used this opportunity to get some experience playing against a slew of wonderful teams, not just the big two. Dumb ass move on their part.

Alexa,
Now, don’t bring Brazil in the discussion, because Brazil is in a class of its own. Leave aside World Cup, Brazil has won three of the last 4 Copa.

Dont try to prove yourself great by appending your name to Brazil. Even though you are fielding your best team, Brazil’s B team will be enough for you. And any team like Mexico, Columbia, Equador will be give a tough fight.

We are not at all worried about Argentina. And we will let Messi dribble around whole of the field except our D-box. That will put Riquelme out of sync with the team, and wihout Riquelme , you guys know what you are!!

Dont you Alexa??

last time we beat a euro team with importance….FRANCE

whens the last time usa beat a team with importance?

as i recall WC 06 they were one of the worst teams

Its the arrogant ,ignorant attitude displayed by Donovan that gets Americans an unfortunate reputation across the world.

I’ve met quite a few mainly from New England & New Hampshire an they are lovely people. People like you however should learn something about social interaction.

In terms of Copa’s Argentina are well ahead 13-7 against Brazil. Brazil are hardly in a class of their own either, even the coach Dunga admits it.

As for Serbia they won their group convincgly & have always produced players with high technical ability as witnessed i their u21 team recently.

And if you watched the game against Holland aside from a mistake by Burdisso ,Holland were always on the backfoot in that game while Argentina dominated & created several excellent chances which with better finishing would have ended in the net.

If you want to attack anyone attack the likes of your namesake Landon Donovan, Beasley & co who are unwilling to represent their country but choose instead to chase & tie up new contracts in Europe.

I wouldn’t blame the US Soccer Federation in this regard though they could impose sanctions on the players from playing in future, however given the very limited depth in America they cannot afford to do this.

I’m sure it will be a tough game and the players & Basile know not to take anything for granted. Indeed they will use this alleged ‘provocation’ for further building team spirit.

Team USA own footballing history in the mens game is hardly anything tom crow about & trying to use the Auriverdes record to attack Argentina is pretty poor.

Embarassing. Trite. Meaningless.

Tevez has said he would be delighted to join Arsenal. Expect a bidding war to start involving Internazionale Real etc etc.

And Donovan? It’s Ecuador, not Equador.

aimar may play instead of cambiasso.

Alexa
Sorry about the spelling.
Alexa and Aurelius,
I didn’t say Argentina is a bad footballing nation. It certainly has won 2 world cups, runner up in 2, and has won the Copa 13 times. But that all history, and in the last one and half decade, Argentina have been a very average footballing nation. And they have just been living on their past reputation.
2006 World Cup tried to change things for them a lil bit, but they are back to the ditch again.

Its high time Argentina wins something, and live in present.

Go, go go Argentina. This provides an excellent opportunity for silverware. We have the best team and I have always believed we are the best in the world. IT is time to put some of this people in their rightful place, where they belong. I only hope Basile will get his equation right by fielding the right players; I lost faith with Veron long time ago. I do not know about Crespo, but I think the younger strikers should be given a more prominent role for they represent the future. I am talking about the likes of Palacio, Tevez, Milito, even Aguero and others who are not currently invited. Otherwise I must say that this trophy is ours.

Argentina Announce Starting XI, Tevez On The Bench

West Ham striker Carlos Tevez is disappointed about being left on the bench for Argentina’s opening Copa America group match against the United States of America next week.

zoom – galleria Alfio Basile has already named the starting eleven for Argentina’s Copa America opener, and Carlos Tevez is not in it.

Basile has chosen Lionel Messi and Hernan Crespo as his strikers for Argentina’s debut, while Juan Roman Riquelme and Juan Sebastian Veron have been confirmed in midfield.

GK: Abbondanzieri (Getafe-ESP);

DF: Zanetti (Inter-ITA), Ayala (Villarreal-ESP), Milito (Zaragoza-ESP), Heinze (Manchester United-ENG);

MF: Verón (Estudiantes), Mascherano (Liverpool-ENG), Cambiasso (Inter-ITA);

AMF: Riquelme (Villarreal-ESP);

FW: Messi (FC Barcelona-ESP); Crespo (Inter-ITA)

Argentina Announce Starting XI, Tevez On The Bench

West Ham striker Carlos Tevez is disappointed about being left on the bench for Argentina’s opening Copa America group match against the United States of America next week.

Source Goal.com

zoom – galleria Alfio Basile has already named the starting eleven for Argentina’s Copa America opener, and Carlos Tevez is not in it.

Basile has chosen Lionel Messi and Hernan Crespo as his strikers for Argentina’s debut, while Juan Roman Riquelme and Juan Sebastian Veron have been confirmed in midfield.

GK: Abbondanzieri (Getafe-ESP);

DF: Zanetti (Inter-ITA), Ayala (Villarreal-ESP), Milito (Zaragoza-ESP), Heinze (Manchester United-ENG);

MF: Verón (Estudiantes), Mascherano (Liverpool-ENG), Cambiasso (Inter-ITA);

AMF: Riquelme (Villarreal-ESP);

FW: Messi (FC Barcelona-ESP); Crespo (Inter-ITA)

From the wires and such–

Aimar makes case for starting place

What does everyone think???

Let me add that I am froom the USA and cheer for them in every game and in this one I will be cheerin gfor Argentina to teach my own team a lesson about not sending the best .

The United States has already conquered the Gold Cup, twice in a row. We have high paid starters that decided to let the kiddos giv this tournament a shot. The kids playing in this Copa America, which is no Gold Cup, will show Argentina what real SOCCER is all about.

Go team U-S-A! U-S-A!

Too bad Donavon isn’t going to go so you may learn a lesson or two on hw to play the sport of Gods.

Go Aimar !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Basile should start Aimar because the USA is just going to play defense Why not start an offensive jugurnaut . that is what practice is for is to see who is playing well .

Ole claims tevez wants Inter? what do you think?

Donovan, the Penalty God:
Whoevever you are, you shouldnt have taken my nkname. I can actually sue you!! LOL.

And you argentines, whoever you start with, doesnt matter for us. You are just paper superstars.

toddutah, I am sure that even without our senior players, we can still win Argentina.

Yeah — the US wins the mighty Gold Cup, and Arg are paper tigers for winning the world cup twice and the copa america like 14 times.

I love it. If Donovan or Tyson ever spell the names of the countries that participate in Copa America correctly, and then understand a little history, then maybe we can take anything Donovan or Tyson says seriously. Of course this will never happen, so why don’t we let them go back to their wicked cool intramural soccer matches.

I read that the US wanted the Gold Cup because winning it would give them a spot in the Confederations Cup. But I still think that they have majorly blown it with this one. I’m “American”, US citizen, by the way. And I really hope that Arg kicks the US b-team’s ass.

As to Arg– I’d love to see Aimar play, but the team might be getting a tad crowded with creative midfielder types. They really need to make sure that they don’t get burned in the back.

Another thing — Aimar a forward? Or will he be playing behind Crespo?

I meant — Messi a forward?

I am looking forward to this game and indeed the tournament. I have a feeling the States are going to beat Argentina on Thursday (enough of a feeling that I put my money where my mouth is).

I have to agree with the sentiment expressed by Donavan. Argentines are quick to place their team in the category as Brazil. The difference is the three Great teams in the world, Brazil Italy and Germany WIN.

Go States go…..USA A OK

i didn’t take your name, your not Landon Donavon. But we cannot, as a mtter of fact, no one can argue that Landon Donavon is not within the top 8 best players of all time (internationally). Do argentines watch this man play? He is a God, he should playing with Real Madrid, but instead he plays for LA because he is a true blood patriot.

Our U.S. team will trample the Argentines in the first match. We are superioir economically and can invest more training and power into our young players.

You may have one Messi and a Tevez, but we are like a group of 10 Donavons and a 1 Donavon like goalie, the chief Kasey.

Bring it on!

USA is not to be reckoned with, we are U S A!

USA was the only team in WC 2006 that actually give Italy a real challenge. We are there up with the very best, but like Argentina, we don’t append our name behind “Brazil”, to put us in the same class. We let our games talk. Alexa,I guess you are from Ecuador, which is such a nice team in itself. You had such a great player in Delgado, and I am sure there must be someone coming to fill his shoes. Why are after those paper tigers ??Are you being sarcastic by tell these Argentines that they are the best??

hey guys, you are all great , i enjoy reading your conversations.ajNYHC,do you know how to watch the game online on that website you gave?

I think Argentina2010 is correct that is Ken.

All the people living in USA who want to watch this game its on telefurta at 8 30.

It sucks I won’t be able to watch the Argentina vs Colombia game on tv.

i am very excited that that aimar is training well and could be apart of the starting line up. i really do think he could fit in very well with this line up as a left winger. yeah we may suffer a bit defensively but its a risk we should take. lets face it cambiasso cannot play left wing he needs to be central. with riquelme already central who will attack the left wing. we also have enough cover with veron and macherano. maybe veron can play a little deeper and alow messi to do the same leaving more space for crespo.

estos americanos pelotudos no saben de que hablan….

imbeciles

Donovan- I have never heard an international paper news show or sports show talk show excluding the US talk about your “god”. Im sure if he were so great, as you make him to be, more people would of noticed. Truth is “donovan” your ignorant and have no idea about the world, especially futbol, so i suggest you know about what your talking about next time you speak. The United States soccer team has no history. Its a shame that the US wont be bringing thier “A” team because I really was looking forward to see a somewhat good game.

“Our U.S. team will trample the Argentines in the first match. We are superioir economically and can invest more training and power into our young players.”- Aside from your ignorance, you obviously have no knowlege of what youre talking about. Economic superiority has nothing to do with training better, idiot. I have lived in the US for ten years and everytime i see a soccer game at my school i want to cry. Keep investing in shitty coaches and shitty techniques.. it looks like its working for ya. It’s sad that my third world country will be able to beat your ass with our eyes closed.
Hope to see you on Friday on our blog when your defeated. After I see what you have to say, I’ll laugh, just like I laughed today when i saw your ridiculous posts.

Secondly, I would like to say this blog is awesome. Way to go guys. Argentina really does have the best fans

Argentina 3 US 0

Vamos vamos argentina vamos vamos a ganar que esta banda quilombera…..

Argentina2010: “That is so KEN all of this losers who talk about us are ken.
I don’t have a idea why is he doing this”

Hahaha,
because Ken wants to “bring the best in us through teasing and criticizing” (according to his previous posts)
lol.

So excited about Thursday’s game, I am sure Tevez will come in in the second half, hopefully, instead of Veron.

Donovan-

you havent answered my questions and Argentina has wayyyyyyy more of a future than does the USA.

maria,
I am “Donovan”, and the guy who posted that is “Donavan, The penelty God”. He stole my nickname.

Regarding your question about God, I think Argentines use that word more than anyone else in the world.

You call the mixture of “Steroids, Drugs and talent” in Maradona as God, dont you?

Messi is also becoming a mixture of “Steroids, and Talent” and I wonder when will he be into Drugs like his idol. I guess after the loss with USA?

My dear Alexa, we are being attacked by this troll with an ever changing nickname.
I agree with whoever said it’s just one and the same since Ali started.
I have talked several times with Bob about this and he’s been screening our blog but there’s not much he can do because the messages are not from the same IP.
The best thing is to ignore him, of course.
I noticed he loves to use te word “loser” a lot.

He probably starts the minute he wakes up…

It’s a pretty safe bet that Argentina will win.
USA should not be underestimated though. Even if it’s a B team, the opposing team should always be respected.

“I guess after the loss with USA?” Bad grammar dimwit. Furthermore this is a friendly blog with insightful comments and analysis about Argentine football, players and coaches. I do believe there is a USA blog on this website – please peruse it douche bag.

Anyone in NYC going to watch the game @ Nevada Smiths on Thursday? I’ll be there in full gear, to shout over the mediocre and unoriginal U-S-A! U-S-A! chants.

Vamos Argentina!

Come on Donovan, you should not associate Messi with steroids, that’s completely uncalled for, and a complete fallacy.

While the right to one’s opinion is respected on this blog, you should not abuse that right by making such dangerous and unfounded accusations.

Albo, always great to hear a voice of intelligence and Sanity!

THis is from that great blog, Mundo Albiceleste. O Globo put out a list of reasons why BRazil should or shouldn’t fear Riquelme. It’s pretty funny:

So here’s the list of 10 reasons why Brazil should fear RIQUELME:
http://globoesporte.globo.com/ESP/Noticia/0,,MUL56932-4482,00.html

1. Because he destroyed Palmeiras in 2000

2. Because he destroyed Brazil in the World Cup Qualifiers in Buenos Aires in 2005 (Argentina won 3-1 with a sensational goal by Roman from outside the area).

3. Because he destroyed Gremio in 2007 (this week!)

4. Because he was the best player of the Copa Libertadores and Boca’s top-scorer.

5. Because he will wear MARADONA’s number 10 shirt.

6. Because he will want to avenge the defeat he suffered against Brazil (3-0 in London) in his last game before his interrupted international retirement.

7. Because those who will have to stop RIQUELME’s shots are HELTON and DONI.

8. Because it is forbidden to use weapons in football to stop him.

9. Because he is as ugly as Topo Gigio (a mouse-puppet from a kids TV show that was immortalized by Roman when he celebrated a goal against River Plate by putting his hands around his ears, resembling the image of the famous puppet).

10. Because he is Argentine.

Now the list of 10 reasons why Brazil should not be afraid of Roman:
http://globoesporte.globo.com/ESP/Noticia/0,,MUL56941-4840,00.html

1. Because he always underachieve playing for Argentina.

2. Because he is an usual victim of Brazil.

3. Because he failed at FC Barcelona where RONALDINHO is king.

4. Because there is no Bombonera stadium in Venezuela.

5. Because the Copa America is not quite like the Copa Libertadores.

6. Because Brazil have ROBINHO.

7. Because this time Argentina won’t have contaminated water (in reference of the incident in which Brazilian BRANCO was given intoxicated water during the World Cup match in Italy 90 by a member of BILARDO’s staff).

8. Because Brazil should better be worried about MESSI and TEVEZ.

9. Because he has the face of Topo Gigio, and Topo Gigio can’t hurt nobody!

10. Because he is Argentine.

Donovan

I do not think its right for you to bash the attitude of the Argentina fans by saying that they have a “loser attitude”. Its called being hopeful and supportive.

You shouldn’t even brag about the US team in the copa america since your best players are not even representing your country. You pretty much have nothing to lose in thursdays match. If US loses, you will have an excuse taht US didnt field its best. ppl in this blog can’t take you seriously when u already have an excuse for losing the match. Please wait till US brings its best before you argue.

I do not know why US didnt send its best but it certainly shows the lack of confidence of the US team. It seems they sent a B team so that they could have an excuse for losing. THat by the way is a LOSER ATTITUDE.

Donovan, its not ur fault that US didn’t send its best. At least, if u kept ur mouth shut about the US team of copa America, you wouldnt seem like ur supporting the US’s LOSER ATTITUDE. and stop bashing countries who are confident enough to field their best.

thanks

Only inconfident teams like argentina field their A team ina B-grade tourmanent like this.And even then, you cant win.

Does anybody have news on whether Aimar will start alongside Riq, Veron, and Masch?

haha u brag about ur gold cup win and u call this a B-grade tournament?? US should consider themselves lucky to be invited.

A quick note —
I believe that the only people who think that Brazil is far superior to Argentina are the ones who only watch the world cup every 4 years, those who think history is what happened the year before, and those who believe in t-shirt sales and Nike ads.

Of course, Brazil has won more wc’s, but in the Copa America, Arg has won far more. And the record between the two, when they face each other, is pretty much 50/50.

I think this though — apologies to Brazilian fans — Brazil has taken the easy way out. We have to remember that Brazil had a long slump between 70 – 94. During this time their national team played very well, they had sides in the WC that many people thought were the best in the tournament, but they didn’t win for a long time.

What changed? In the 90’s they got Pareira, and adopted an incredibly efficient BORING style, more athletic than skillful, and then the titles came back (of course, they are BRAZIL, they will always be skillful, but not to the level they were before). They don’t play the beautiful game anymore.

The Arg side is still trying to play their style, a SOuth American style, and that’s why they have so many fans around the world. THis is more than just about winning (although I’ll be really annoyed if they crash out of this Copa), this is about what you want futbol to be about. I don’t watch Riquelme play just because he has a knack for winning (which he does) but because he’s a genius, an artist.

DONOVAN-..
what a joke!!
hahaha..u really make me laugh…!!
wonder how old are you?
don’t be stupid please..
do u know futbol..?
stupid and ridiculous post by you..u make me laugh !! hahaha
hope u come back again this friday when your defeated..:)
use your brain and think before u talk..don’t be stupid,childish and brainless..
keep going on like this..
you will never learn….
btw,don’t post another stupid post..what a shame…

Alexa,
Are you trying to say that Brazil plays less beautiful soccer than Argentina? Common, you can’t be that stupid!!

However, I am not passionate about Brazil, but I certainly think that they are in a different class than Argentina, even thouugh Argentina seems to have its best game against Brazil. This is typically becasue both of the teams dont go for man-marking like European teams.

In my observation, Brazil plays a beautiful game but they are more dependent on personal brilliance of their stars.

Regarding Riquelme, he truly is a player who has both a flair for winning and the style. And thats why half of the Argentina fans, hate him.

Abu Takla | June 26th, 2007 at 12:57 pm

Argentina2010: “That is so KEN all of this losers who talk about us are ken.
I don’t have a idea why is he doing this”

Hahaha,
because Ken wants to “bring the best in us through teasing and criticizing” (according to his previous posts)
lol.

GUYS IT KEN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Donovan — you’re arguments might help if you actually watched some games.

I completely agree with Alexa. The 82 Brazil team not winning the WC was the worst thing that happened to football. Then we really hoped that Argentina will win it this time, they looked like that also, but ALAS!

Success stories are always copied. So unless a free flowing team like Argentina does not win anything nobody is going to follow them. I really hope that we win the copa this time, else we will really be without anything good for a very long time.

Alexa and guys,
See you tomo. I am outta office for today.
And take it easy!!!

PDP…u bet for argentina?
i’m pretty sure they will win ^^

Donovan..don’t be stupid please…
-.-||

well donovan,
as you said, argentina’s glory is all history and recently they have been an average team. but more recently, like the world cup 2006, argentina outclassed brazil at the same time playing much more beautiful game. It is proven as most of the top 5 goals of the tournament belong to argentina. That said, i think it is fair to say that regardless of the history, argentina plays more of a beautiful game than brazil. So think about who is stupid before u conclude that alexa is one.

Donovan…
you will never learn…..-.-

Donovan..
like i said before..
please use your brain to think before you talk..
please don’t post another stupid post…
u know you’re really stupid… ^^

I promise that dork I’m not going to associate my cheap argentinean name to Brazil in any way.
They have 5 WCs and we just have 2.

But I’m just going to leave these stats on the table for that ignorant of the history of football, who talks more than he walks.
About the 21 years that have spanned since Argentina won (with Maradona) their last World Cup, well, Brazil took 24 years to get over Pelé’s departure.

And when it comes to Copa America, Brazil won it 7 times.
Argentina won it 14 times, plus 3 South-American Cups (the way the copa was called back in the 40s.)
It’s not like we’ve been that bad either, or is it?
oh forgot to mention that Boca Juniors is now the team that has won more international titles in the world.

Al pan pan y al vino vino.

ya usa is the best they crush teams like…….jamaica HAHAHAHAHA

please son be serious

i cant believe this guy coems on here and spends his time talking all this crap

dont you have a job?

Hey, People , i have to say that i am a new argentinan fan. Since i saw the world cup i admired the way that argentina played whiched outclassed every team in the world cup and they should have one. i guess the only match i was dissapointed when i saw argentina play was tha match against brazil. If they play with the same style of play with such quality then i have no doubt that they will win the copa america. Im also a big messi fan but i guess what put me off was the fact that tevez ain’t starting along side messi and aimar with riquelme. What do you people think?

Well wel well donovan !
Do u want to talk about football or about titles ?? huh ? about titles? greece won the euro and italy won the world cup with thier crappy team ….
well if u want to talk about football then dont waste ur time doing it here with us , the Art of Football is summarised in one goal ….Cambiaso’s goal against Serbia !! c ya glory guy

Well wel well donovan !
Do u want to talk about football or about titles ?? huh ? about titles? greece won the euro and italy won the world cup with thier crappy team ….
well if u want to talk about football then dont waste ur time doing it here with us , the Art of Football is summarised in one goal ….Cambiaso’s goal against Serbia !! c ya glory guy

I guess, I just wanted to get back into talking about football.

I am watching the Uruguay and Pero game. I expected Uruguay to really have a good tourny, but they are losing to peru at the moment.

I really think mexico is gonna give brazil a fit. just because of their loss to the US.

By the way have you guys been reading about the transfer rumors?

Real and Juve are in a battle for Milito.

Also the daily mirror, is saying heize has already agreed to go to real.

and riquelme to westham??? i also read boca president is asking the fans to raise about $3million to get an extra 6 months loan for riquelme. wow.

There is also another rumor that says AIMAR could head to Totnham.

wow– crazy rumors.

Yeah–Uruguay looks really disorganized and unprepared. Peru looks plucky, and they have people who can score, it seems. There goals was very nice indeed, and another one was called back for some reason (offsides?). No way it was offsides – it was a goal.

These tournaments are so easy to predict on paper, but then the actual playing starts, and everything goes crazy.

Uruguay might need this to wake and start playing. They very nearly scored, and with players like Forlan and Diogo, they can do a lot.

Donovan’s talk about the US being so great reminds me of all the yanks speaking in the same ignorant manner prior to the World Cup. Careful there, you don’t want another embarrassment. Placing Argentina and USA in the same sentence is a joke, you yanks are not even CLOSE to Argentina’s rank and status when it comes to the football world. And about the Gold cup, I think like 3 people in the entire world watched that, so don’t brag about some cheesy, dull tournament.

Stick to baseball and get the fuck out of this blog.

Does anyone know why is Alvaro Recoba not playing?

Uruguay got crushed 3-0 damn

Albo — Recoba is injured. But I think that he will play in the next game.

There was a time when Uruguay was at the same level as Brazil and Argentina. Man do they suck now. Individually they have good players, but the coach did not prepare them at all to play together. What a poor showinf.

They were so — flaccid against Peru. No organization, no strategy, no communication. Peru should have won 4-0.

Peru, on the other hand, have a nice side! Lots of pluck, nice finishing, and that second goal was great. Good for them!

A nice article on the political Maradona
http://www.channel4.com/news/articles/sports/political+football+diego+maradona/577387

Gracias Alexa!!!
Wow Perú. playing at high level…

Johnny9x- A lot of people are disappointed that Carlitos is not in the starting lineup. I’m worried that Basile has Messi as a forward. I don’t really get why Basile’s playing Veron either (this is why I come to this blog, so that people like Albo and Aurelius and Alfio, etc. explain these things!).

I do think, though, that the lineup will probably change as the tournament goes on, and I wouldn’t be surprised if Tevez gets his start in maybe a later stage (like what happened in the World Cup).

You can’t really have Tevez and Messi both as forwards, a Crespo type guy really needs to be there. And the real goal scorer, saviola, wasn;t even called up. So I don;t doubt that Tevez will be very involved (palacio and milito will warm the bench)

Alexa,
Basile looks a confused guy.

1. Basile welcomed Riquelme into the team at the last moment, even though he wasn’t in his initial plans.

2. He called Veron back to the team for a starting place, without even knowing if this will work.

3. He doesn’t actually know how he should use Messi.

Anyone watching the game??
Venezuela-Bolivia 1-1 till halftime.

Actually, Alexa, this is the way many european teams solve the problem of the enganche. Veron and Cambiasso have done this together for Inter Milan many times.
And the same Boca chose during Copa Libertadores.
Verón and Cambiasso (or Gago) are going to start the plays, the way Banega and Ledesma did for Boca. That should attract defenders. This, in time, should allow Riquelme to find his spots better, before he gets the ball. Doesn’t sound like much, but it should make a big difference for Roman.
It’s something every coach would like to try. Veron can play midfield def. and has the technique to play touch and go football, which is what they want for Messi.
I ‘m very curious about it and Imo this match against USA is the best opportunity to try it. About Carlitos Tevez, I’m sure he’ll play a lot football during this tournament.
Right now the main purpose for Basile is to get Messi into a one on one situation with the american GK.

ALBO, thats probably the best explanation anyone has given me on to why, Basile has put both veron and riquelme in with Messi as a striker. I was so confused because i thought,

if he goes with Cambiasso and mascherano, then he would play messi on the left flank or put Aimar and riquelme in with messi and crespo attacking. Or put cambiasso gago and Lucho in, but I see what you are saying.

Thanks for the explanation. Cant wait to see brazil mexico tomorrow. Any predictions???

Messay, Mexico have not been doing very well under Hugo Sanchez. But the mexicans have this thing where the tougher it gets the better they play.
I thought Mexico played an awesome match against Agrentina during WC06.
It was like a chess game.
What can I say?, let’s have fun with Copa America…

Also Messay, our striker is Crespo.
Messi es “media punta”, he’ll play freely in and around the box, left or right, and hopefully we’ll end up with quite a few choices to shoot on goal.

Haaa i don’t care what the anti argnetinian Bull shit say b’coz i always supported Argentina no matter what happen . Himno Nacional el Argentina , ARGENTINA SALUD…… No illore PAra mi ARGENTINA por favor porque yo siemre contigo .

abundanzieri
burdiso-ayala-milito-hainze
mascherano

messi gago tevez
riquelme

crespo

IS THE BEST ARRANGE

I can’t bare the waiting now…I want it to start. I really hope our defence can do A LOT better than in the last games.
Uruguay was a major disappiontment in their game against Peru. Peru played well, and what a fantastic goal from Marino.

Thanks Albo, for that explanation. Wonderful stuff. This makes much more sense to me now. Today’s games are going to be really entertaining, my team against Chile, and then Brazil Mexico, which could easily be a WC quarterfinal any year!

Albo,

Your explanation of Coco’s tactics are very interesting, but I wonder about the classical problem of having attacking ‘wing backs.’

Neither Heinze nor Zanetti will stay at home in the same way that Burdisso did in the World Cup. That means that both Mascherano and Cuchu will have to cover for them, especially against pacy teams with width.

This leaves the middle of the park severely depleted. Even with only one of the double 5’s pulled out wide, leaving tackling up to Veron and Cuchu is not my idea of a strong midfield. This leaves gaps for midfielders to come, with pace, into the centre of a penalty box, with two slowish defenders.

I just think that Argentina dont have problems going forward. It’s their defence that has let them down in the past, and is liable to do so again.

to add to Albo’s explanation, what Coco wants to avoid the breaking down once teams man mark Riquleme. Hence, by having another ‘enganche’, it will allow the offence to have another outlet from which to start the play. hence why Veron/Aimar are being considered. Messi is not of this ilk.

Also, one has to understand the whole basis of the ‘triangle formation’ in the Menotti (Pekerman/Basile) system. You look at a lot of our goals, it involves 2 players revolving around the set up man for the move and be able to buy time and execute one touch passes. a bunch of different players rotate in triangles around the enganche giving him options. once the set up man decides that those 2 players are covered, then he rotates and looks to the other side of the field to start the move again.

it’s why Argentina you will see so many times move forward, but then retreat all the way back to re-start. the enganche controls this and usually this happens because the number 10 is being marked too closely. what basile wants to avoid is that even if Roman is being marked, Veron can step in and continue the move forward.

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2007/writers/world_soccer/06/25/qa.tevez/index.html

Tevez article

How was practice yesterday?

Skywalker,
Nice observation of the triangular structure!

Hi all,

Been very busy of late with work upto my friggin neck!! Can’t wait for the game on friday! I’ll be sure to watch it. Very interesting comments made on strategies, the triangle formation.

Hi all,

Been very busy of late with work upto my friggin neck!! Can’t wait for the game on friday! I’ll be sure to watch it. Very interesting comments made on strategies, the triangle formation.

how many matches did messi and riquelme play together and which teams did they play against?

i know they played a match together in the WC against netherlands and the friendly against brazil. is there any other?

Vick, the argentina game is on thursday

there are some other friendlies , one against qatar and the other against croatia!! but riquelme doesn’t play in the friendlies he just watch the team play soo he just played with messi in the world cup and it was good for me !
and GUYZZ PLZZ somebody tell me if veron is going to play from the begining !

kanaan,
Riquelme doesnt play in friendlies? You think he was playing with the National team with his retirement drama??

If you watch Arsenal, Manchester United, Inter Milan, AC Milan, AS Roma – every time a player has the ball, he usually has two players to pass to. That’s generally the rule.

I think Veron’s inclusion also has to do with the fact that he has a lot of experience with Zanetti, Cambiasso, and Crespo. Since Veron & Cambiasso played 2 seasons playing in the middle of a 4-4-2 system together (for Inter) theoretically, they should combine well.

http://www.copaamerica.com/default.asp?pag=noticias&id=488

http://www.copaamerica.com/default.asp?pag=home

i wonder why the americans hate us so much?

prolly all that fear kinda how they are with arabs

mabye its all that grease from mcdonalds and being so fat that got to there heads?

I am not quite convinced about Veron and Riquelme are going to jell, but if somehow, that works, that is going to be the best thing that can happen to Argentina for a couple of years.

In all this, Riquelme should not be eclipsed. Veron might give better performace than Riquelme in a game or two, but Riquelme should be made the central figure. If argentina can’t afford that, it is no use to include Riquelme in the team.

Does anyone remember the Veron and Keane pair in MAN U? It was so unsettling for Veron. So chances are there that the Veron-Riquelme pair might not work well, esp if Veron plays a more attacking role than Riquelme.

The USA respects Argentine football, everyone does. Bob isn’t sending a B Team to Copa America, he’s sending a Young Team. We hope to improve these players abilities by having them play against the best. His hope is that we will be a deeper football nation for WC 2010. But I have to admit it sure would be nice if we could beat this great team on Thursday like we beat Argentina 3:0 in a previous Copa America game. When the whistle blows it’s 11 versus 11 and nobody knows the result. That’s why we all love the game. Good luck Argentina. Go USA!

Mac, nice post!!!
——-
AM says:
>>I wonder about the classical problem of having attacking ‘wing backs.>>

AM, you raise a good point and this is how I see it works.
It’s not the “generators” Veron and Cambiasso who rotate to cover the laterals.
First of all, when one side moves up, the other one stays put.
Let’s say Zanetti starts one of those dashes of his, down the right side.
Ayala takes two steps to the right and Mascherano moves back-right to cover the line.
That’s all.
Meanwhile we have Zanetti, Verón, Riquelme, and Messi playing fast one touch football on the right half of he field and hopefully breaking the opponent’s balance.
On the left side it’s a bit different because Heinze’s charges are not going to be as deep as Pupi’s. And that’s our “weak link”.
We don’t have a full winger in the style of Piojo Lopez to take it from there. And Heinze’s technique is not up to one touch football.
But we have Tevez to open the left side.
The question is who comes out?
It’s not that easy.
It’s also up to what kind of formation (USA) presents.
I imagine a 4-4-2 or a crowded 4-5-1 which is going to make it very hard for our guys.
But again, as we have mentioned before, I imagine a lot of free kicks (fouls) for Argentina, otherwise how are they going to stop Roman, Veron and Messi?
If you are a midfield defender and see Veron and Riquelme coming to you, it’s kind of like “pick your poison”.
Team USA are going to have to commit fouls and slow down and break the flow of our guys to get any results. That, plus vertical fastbreaks.
Lastly, Crespo is going to open the weak side and he has great chances to score, either from opponent’s mistakes with the “offside step” or from bounces in the box. Saludos

Any news as to who will start in midfield (Aimar or Cuchu)?

I just read on mundo albiceleste that Coco has confirmed the line up that we allready have been talking about for several days:
———–1Pato
8Zanetti-2Ayala-15Milito-6Heinze
———14Mascherano
—– 20Veron—19Cambiasso
———10Riquelme
——–18Messi-9Crespo

So, as we all knew…sadly…no Tevez.

Rune,

If I’m not mistaken, Tevez started the tournament from the bench. Copa 2004, Olympic, WC 2006 and now again Copa 2007!

Hey, donavan you have already lost the match against Iran.And argentina has one of the greatest footballers in the world how can u beat argentina.if u bring ur giant strong like bomb , u cannot win over.if ya bring ur AAAA+++ THEN ALSO ARGENTINA WILL BEAT EASILY.

Hey, donavan you have already lost the match against Iran.And argentina has one of the greatest footballers in the world how can u beat argentina.if u bring ur giant strong like bomb , u cannot win over.if ya bring ur AAAA+++ THEN ALSO ARGENTINA WILL BEAT U EASILY.

Haters, hop it, you make me laugh! – Jokers

U cnt test this squad

mac4, we will see tomorrow, your A+ team and our B- team.

Che Donovan, no serás chilote vos no maraca?

Have a question.Is Univision showing Tomorrow’s game or no does anyone know??

Albo,

I think you’re very correct in saying that the left side of the field is going to be our weak link.

I was just looking at that WC game against Ivory Coast, and observed that when Argentina had the ball, Riquelme shifted into the centre of the field, whereas when the ball was lost, he retreated into the left side of midfield.

Maybe such a tactic will help to keep Heinze at home??
You’re right in saying that Heinze is not good enough technically, and also, he lacks the speed to get back quickly. To be honest, I think that’s our weakest position. Are there any promising players in the youth ranks for left back?

On another note, Brazil vs. Mexico soon. I think this will be a very good game, and I would really love to see if this Brazilian team are up to the challenge.

Hey everyone I still wish that Aimar wa playing instead of Veron or Tevez but we will see. I want to win the tournamnet bad but why waste the experience opportunity on a guy like Veron that for sure will not be around in 2010. Tevez or Aimar should be starting. They are better players and younger. Eihter way Argentina will win by at least 2 goals and then we will see who starts the next game. Subs should be Tevez, Aimar, and Milito. Adios

From a big fat gringo . Be careful a racism it goes both ways .

God, the commentary sucks!!!

Anyone watching Brazil too??

I know you guys will come out in a while and start saying “Diego was such a crap. Brazil was such a crap. We can beast them 3-0.”

LOL

Mexico leads Brazil 2-0 at 25 mins

I love the Copa for 2 reasons:

1 – ALL OFFENCE

there is absolutely no D to talk about. everybody, wants to score, all the time. such a refreshing change from watching Euro soccer. yes, the D is awful, but man, the skill displayed by guys even on Chile/Bolivia is astounding.

2 – No fear of anyone, no respect

Everyone feels they can beat everyone. when a Euro based team plays a powerhouse, they play within themselves and are almost scared to play. but there is none of that here.

just look at what Mexico is doing to Brazil. today. It’s unreal.

It’s the same line of thinking that had many of us worried ahead of last year’s QF match with Mexico b/c unlike a euro based team that might be overawed with the likes of Messi/Tevez, they have no such qualms, and have beaten us in the Copa before.

just refreshing to see this type of soccer. Too bad FIFA doesnt care about anything other than the WC and Euro, hence the timing of the Copa doesn’t allow Ronnie and Kaka to participate.

bro i feel you

the worst thing about watching mexico play on that channel

is that the commentators wont shut up about mexico

they are an ok team and all but come on

the announcer guys are borderline homos with there praise

and its not right after a goal either

its like mexican propaganda for 90 minutes

and it will be like that for every game in the copa

argentina will play the US tommorrow and the announcer will talk about mexico

anyways brazil is getting owned
while ronaldinho and kaka sit at home and sip in straws made of diamonds

Wow,
Brazil 2-0 down!!!
didn’t see that coming! expected at least one goal by Brazil.

Woooooo!!!!!!!!!

Brazil is seeing red or is it green?

How about that free kick?

I know that Brazil is resilient and a never die team. Until the final whistle is blown, anything can happen. Mexico is playing smart. What say you?

What a goalkeeper!!!

Brazil Mex was such a great game! Awesome goal keeper!

I love USA Soccer and I can only frown when all I see is argentina is gonna when this and that….Donovan is the only on that I caught with my eyes that is pro USA. The worst part of all is the fact that most of you are from the USA. What ever happened to true fans? I am calling it….USA 3 Argentina 2…Gonna be a good game…..Oh and for crying out loud its called SOCCER in the united states. Yes, I know its called futbol in every country but this one. So what? We have a football already, unfortunately , so we must stick with soccer. Besides, be proud its the USA for crap sakes.

Donovan,

With regard to your question to Alexa,

YES AND YESS!!!!

Argentina plays more beautiful football than Brazil. That is not in doubt.

I first watched ARgentina play in 1986 during the World Cup and since then, it’s been a love affair.

How about those well thought out, short, crisp, closely knit weaves?

How about those ‘laser guided’ beautiful passes?

How about that midfield flair that is second to none?

How about the artistry? The midfield adroitness?

…..and yes, the poetry? Football poetry?

No one even comes close.

I also love Spain. They play good football too.

In my view, Brazil loves running and counter attacks and only needs that one chance, that defensive lapse to wreak havoc on the opponent.

They didn’t play well on Wednesday against Mexico. Had Kaka (the master of counter attacks and a very fast boy) been there, perhaps hte results might have been different but we’ll never know.

Argentina may not have won the WC in ‘06, but it won the hearts of millions around hte world. I know this from talking to most of my friends who support Brazil, France, Italy and Germany.

Maria,

I concur. The young lad carried the day. He was the man of the match. Great goalkeeping!

Melissa,

It is true that the USA plays good football.

However, Brazil, Argentina, Spain e.t.c. play beautiful football.

One more thing, it doesn’t mean that if one posts from the USA, then, he or she hails from America.

I live in Silver Spring, Maryland but I am African.

I am from the US and love my country but lets get one thing straight.

THE US doesnt have an A team. USA has a team made of very average average players. They play good as a team and thats their story. Any of the players in the US squad are capable of playing as good as donavan, beasly or dempsy.

So lets not walk around saying US has an A

I love to US national team, because they play with a lot of dicipline and heart. that is very respectable.

But to say that we have an A team and a B team is just crazy.

There is no way you could compare the players from the US national team to that of Argentina. NO possible way.

Thats why I think the MLS did a horrible thing by not forcing players on international duties first. Such a shame.

Friends,

Please read my post! I know it is long but it’s the only one of the month .

I am happy to see that Roman is back in the squad. He is amazingly talented. Even if he never defends, he has creativity in his feet. A great player. Slow. But a genious, who can perfectly link forwards and midfielders. A bit like the mythical Zidane.

And just like his friend Pablito Aimar. Hopefully, we have this kind of clever and nice guys in the team. Roman is complex, mentally weak, left the team, came back for the good moments. Players like Aimar, Lucho or Gago will probably pay the price of his return. Thanks for their comprehension and futballistic sacrifice. For the benefit of the team. But I really hope Aimar will be more respected than ever by the NT coach and also that Basile will explain to Roman that Argentina will not depend on him like in 06. Did you know that Roman, when he was a child, was beaten by his father to trick games and allow his dad to win money by betting? We must not put the NT on his shoulders like in the past, Roman is complex, and not only because of his childhood.

By the way, I really don’t like when some of you do not respect Aimar. If Aimar had been a Boca player, some of you would support him much more. I believe Argentina NT must be built around Aimar & Riquelme. It’s a dream for these 2 friends to play a WC together. By the way, Aimar has proven at least, more than Riquelme. He led Valencia to the Spanish title for, I don’t remember, 30 years maybe..

People, stop competing Aimar, Riquelme, Messi together. It’s ridiculous. Basile should put the best players on the field. Riquelme, Aimar, Messi, Lucho, Mascheramo, Ayala are our best players. Lets start them and just play. We would destroy everyone with these key players if we are attentive at the opponent’s counter attacks.

Finally, a word on Pato. He’s horrible! Ridiculous against Algeria. He is the weak point of our team. I don’t understand why i am the only one who criticize him here. It is so viewable. Pato is the only one I really criticize. He is responsible of his injury against Germany than Klose.

Now concerning what some of you have said on this amazing blog:

I like Tevez very much but I would have prefered Saviola in the second forward role, but as ALFIO said, Javier didn’t play the last months. I still don’t understand why our prodigies sign at Barca… ALFIO, my friend, as always, you’re right. For Messi, we must not rush him more. The press and the world has already done it. He has done silly things the past months and are the consequences. Hopefully Bqrcq were not champions and the handgol might be forgotten. Good thing for us.

MARADONA, WAMDIEGO is one of the very few French who know futbol. Read his posts in the archives. He doesn’t say silly things. Maybe he doesn’t have time to write so he only says he doesn’t like Roman? He hates Riquelme because he never defends. It is his opinion, respect it. I’m a River fan, so I’m a bit nervous when I see that a very few of you support Roman only because he belongs to your favorite team. And Maradona, calm down sometimes, you are too nervous. Diego is cooler than you.

DEBASISH, welcome back. In order to never need a plan B, here is the plan A: start at least 2 playmakers! The extra time during ARG MEX WC 06 was wonderful. Remember?

ALEXA, If Riquelme was a great leader, he would have never left the NT. Period. 2 kind of reactions in the NT. The “Verons”: “Who do he think he is? The Argentina NT is a hotel or what?!’. And the Aimars: “Welcome back Roman, nice to see another talented player among us in order to win la Copa!”. And don’t worry concerning the USA game. We will win easily. I’m confident. If you wanna worry for a time then worry for Brazil, they are gonna face Mexico and your 2nd team Ecuador right?

CARRIE, Mascherano and Gago are different. They are both great. And Gago is very clever on the field. I love him. Forget about his Algeria game, he hadn’t Lucho and Masche with him.

HIMU 27, Aimar and Riquelme can’t play together because they have the same role? So it means Gago can’t play with Lucho? Masche can’t play with Cambiasso? Lets put a balanced system with the most creative players upfront on the field, attack, defend and destroy everyone.

DVDIRE, you know what? I’m French and when ARG faced FRANCE in February, I supported Argentina like I always did. I screamed like a donkey when Saviola scored.

SILENT Fan, you made le laugh with your formation. Haha. We have so many talent upfront and we love the beautiful game. We sometimes forget to defend. Like Basile in 94. Hope he has has learned since. But don’t forget, it’s la Copa, not EURO and counter attackings. The only game where you must really defend is against Brazil.

RUNE, forget about the ARG BRA game. It never happened. It was holidays, Concerning Lucho, Basile will use him. Otherwise it will be a horrible lack of respect. Lucho has become essential. Veron has not even played a single game with ARG since years!

I have just known the lineup…with Veron??? No Lucho?? Surprising. I don’t think this will be the starting lineup.

Basile will probably start this:

Pato

Zanetti + Ayala + Milito + Heinze

Lucho + Mascherano + Cambiasso

Messi + Riquelme

Crespo

I don’t have TV here. My father will send me the games on dvds by mail so there will be a delay. I will watch the games days after you. All this logistics for la Copa and my passion for Argentina! I will disappear from the blog for days. See you soon people.

VAMOVAMOS ARGENTINA. VAMOVAMOS A GANAR!!!!!

TE QUIERO ARGENTINA, A VIDA.

MaxiLopez, good luck to you my friend, and come back soon.

coco says that it is very possible aimar will be put in the game later on as a sub

Hello,
Obviously Argentina will get an easy win against young USA squad. I also agree that its stupid to rest Pablo Aimar on the bench instead of Veron but Aimar had a long season in Spain with Zaragoza. If you want you can see my review here
http://www.bettinginfos.eu/tip/analyse.php?spiel=9756

Dono(Van)

Your USA has never created a player of 1/3 of the caliber of Roman and she (!) will never create.

And Guys don’t response to this stupid. He is on this blog because their blog is empty.

himu27 from Bangladesh

So are people saying that I’m stupid?

Still gutted about Ecuador. I can’t believe we play that little assclown Jaime Moreno.

What was worse was that I has to stream from a Chilean channel, and they wouldn’t f’cking shut up about it during the entire next game. Ecuador played well, though. But they are dead in the water now, because of their group. I’m so disappointed.

Brazil were unlucky, I thought. It was just one of those games for them. Nothing went in. Diego really was awful, but Anderson came in and he looks really good. First time I’ve ever seen him play, and I really loved what I saw. Robinho was his usual self, beautiful moves, no end product.

The thing about Brazil — it seems to me that they never really prepare for the team in front of them. It’s like they think that they can just play the game on their terms, no matter who it is, and they will win without much complication. I mean, how can you play France and not bother to man-mark Zidane? Unfortunately, this approach will not always work, regardless of how unbelievably talented your team is. I get so frustrated watching Brazil because they could be so much better than they are. ANyway, they need to bench that useless Wagner Love, play the guy from Henerneen, or whatever it’s called, I think his name is Alex?

Come back soon, Maxilopez!

look what this idiot posted
http://usa.worldcupblog.org/2007-copa-america/the-biggest-little-scumbag-in-the-game.html

argentina gonna win..tomorow!!!!
Sure win!!
maybe 3-0?
hehe ^^^

Now that the game is only a few hours away, you kids are hiding your face in your mothers lap??

That idiot happens to be a racist troll. Lets not worry about him.

Ali, why are you hiddin under the name of Donavan?

vamos Argentina te amo

Alexa,
I differ on Anderson. He had a couple good moments in the game but he did very little considering that he came in as a central playmaker. He definitely looked far from having the potential to become the next Ronaldinho. His mediocre first touches gave him away most of the time imo. Robinho was impressive as usual without contributing much to the end result.

I think Brazil’s overconfidence was their undoing. Their defeat should be a cue for Argentina not to take USA lightly.

Alexa, I’m sorry about Ecuador’s 2-3 to Chile.
To me it was a great match where Equador was playing the better football, but I had a feeling that after the second tie, your guys kinda lost the drive and Chile saw it.
Anyway, enjoy USA-Argentina and I hope our guys make you smile again.

Maradona, amen to your last phrase.

>>Their defeat should be a cue for Argentina not to take USA lightly>>.

It’s amazing how the mind works, even in a collective way.
If you look at Mexico in the last years, they’ve been consistently losing to USA but playing their best football against Brazil and Argentina.

Yeah – when i was watching the game, the second after I said — to the computer — you’re just keeping chile in the game, they went off and tied it up. THen Ecuador lost heart. That’s major prob for them – losing heart. But they will learn — I think they have such a bright future.

maradona — you’re porbably right about Anderson. I didn’t see that much of the second half. I liked how he was running everywhere, and he was so dynamic. The other guys for Brazil were such wet noodles in comparison. We shall see about him. He’s still very very you.

The games so far have been wild. I’m sure Arg saw the Mexico game, and some of the other games. They will not take the US lightly.

Thanks Albo, by the way, for trying to make me feel better. (I’m still upset about Ecuador) But if Arg plays well tonight, I will be all smiles!

Rumors–

Saviola is keeping Zaraogoza waiting, has a deal all but signed with them, but he asked for 48 hours to consider to see if Real Madried signs Schuster. At least that’s the rumor — so it’s either Real Madrid or Zaragoza for Saviola? [if so --aimar,sallesandro, milito, saviola together]

Riquelme — Atletico Madrid has come to an agreement with Villareal on Riquelme (and Diego Forlan). Riquelme has to give his OK (which I can’t see happening).[if so -- riquelme, maxi rod, kun aguero together]

I would love to see Riquelme going to Athletico. I was wondering all these days to figure out where should he go to have a great few years ahead. I never thought of athletico. But it is so perfect.

Also, forlan joins him, so it would be great. I will surely hope that Riquelme will have a great time.

YOOOOOO ARGENTINA FANS!!!! Finally i’ve found a place i can share my thoughts about this amazing team. Ive been an argentina fan since i can remember…..anyways, to get right into it if u dont mind….donavan, Ali or wutever ur name is…..i agree with every single comment that anyone had to say about you…cuz seriously u seem to be brain-washed just like every other american…..how could u possibly think that the USA have a chance against Argentina?? are you nuts?? just wait till game time….nothing your pathetic, cocky youngsters or the “A” U SEEM SO PROUD OF and ur (ha-ha-ha) superior economic efficiency can do JACK!! ….GOOOOOO ARGENTINA!!!

Can we watch today’s game on Univision does anyone know?????

In the words of the english commentator, who did the WC Italy vs America, once the game was over and US were knocked out: AND DOWN GOES THE EMPIRE. No amount of missile defence spending can help you out now … belive that, it will happen again tonight. VAMOS ARGENTINA.

btw, have you guys seen some of the bets on line? I was on pinnacle, -129 for Arg to win by a 1 goal. wow, those are some nice odds. the money line is the 300s which is more like what you’d expect…

Carrie, the game is announced on

GOL-TV (Cable in English/Spanish)
KTFR (TeleFutura, in Spanish)
Fox Sports Español (around midnite ET) (Spanish)

TeleFutura belongs to Univision so maybe in some areas it is shown by them.

Thanks Albo

HOW TO WATCH THE GAME IF U DONT HAVE GOL TV!!!!!

look up on google TVUplayer it is a free download thats offers channels, download it and then search through there channels one channel will be labelled GOL TV i hope this helped my freinds who dont have good TV like me!!!!

-stevo

HOW TO WATCH THE GAME IF U DONT HAVE GOL TV!!!!!

look up on google TVUplayer it is a free download thats offers channels, download it and then search through there channels one channel will be labelled GOL TV i hope this helped my freinds who dont have good TV like me!!!!

-stevo

As a USA fan, I am looking forward to tonight’s game.

I have a question for the Argentine fans:

If the United States has no history (and no future), and if we are so bad at this sport…
If we have no chance in this game, and if our country will never produce a player one-third as good as Riquelme…
(according to you all)…

Then why do you care if we brought our “A team” or our “B minus team” …?

Point to be noted, your honour!!!

Chuck, if you believe a guy or guys that tell you all that about team USA, that’s your prerogative.
That’s the same type of ignorance some of my paisanos make when they assume all americans are behind Bush.
Argentina haven’t won anything in years, I can assure you you’re not gonna see any swagger in the argentinean boys.
They’re just hungry for a victory, that’s all.

Chuck. great question. I answered it up above. The US DOESNT HAVE AN A TEAM???? THe us has a team. thats it. The US national team isnt made up of A players, they are made up of a bunch of C players, who happen to play C+ or B- at best. that is actually something to brag about because there are teams that have A players who play C level. but lets not go around saying the US has an A and be TEAM.

I respect the US national team, they play well together, and very very decipline.

Messay well said

hey everyone i am a gringo and I went USa vs Costa Rica two years agao in Utah and yelled my guts out. The USA is a top 20 world team and well on its way to becoming a top ten team. There are 300 million peopel in the USA and futbol is the number one particiaption sport ofr kids and the youth teams are getting better and better. Look how far we have come in just 20 years? having said that i believe that this next 8 year is Argentinas to dominate with the young talent that we have in the early 20s. I will be screaming for a grat game and a lot of goals and beautiful futbol. Enjoy the game.

I think most of the people criticizing the US for bringing their B team have been Americans like me, who find it a bit disrespectful and also a real waste of an opportunity for the US. Like it or not, the US is no superpower in the world of football. If they do well in Copa America, they will get much more respect from teams (and officials) around the world, this respect becomes self-evident in tournaments like the World Cup, where pedigree really really counts (just look at all the lenience that the Italian team got against Australia and the US in the last WC). No one cares that the US beat Mexico. THey would stand up and take notice if the US really decided once and for all that they belong to the Americas, and consistently competed along side with the teams on this side of the pond. It’s ridiculous that they don’t.

Alexa,
Most of the senior players are simply tired, and the manager wants the youngsters to have some exposure. This will increase the no of players in the pool that the coach can choose from in future.

If Kaka doesn’t play for Brazil, its performance may degrade. But USA doesn’t boast that type of very talented players. In that case, it doesn’t really matter for USA if a few experienced players are rested. Experience certainly counts, but I don’t think it will be detrimental to them, simply because of the team they are and the way they play.

And I hope the youngsters will put as much hard work as their seniors did.

hey guys from Denmark, could you tell me on which channel i can watch Argentina vs usa game? i am just crazy about Argentina. will be a great favour. thanks.

Argentina will win with a difference of 2 goals at least…………VAMOS LA ALBICELESTE….LETS DO IT ALFIO!!

Vamos Vamos, Argentina. Vamos, vamos, a ganar. Que esta barra, quilombera. No te deja, no te deja de alentar.
VAMOS!!!

Argentina es fue y sera emocion y gloria, no se trata solo de echarse un polvo sino disfrutar ese polvo, los tanos amargos ganaron la copa del mundo con un futbol malisimo…. Argentina trae carisma y eso le falta a muchos equipos espero que esta copa le muestre a america entera a jugar y divertirse.
Vamos Argentina
Adrian Ale

Watching the game between Para and Colu…it does not look like we have anything to fear from those teams…

Rune.
i dun think there’s any reason to worry either…Santa Cruz might cause a little touble for the D but i dun think its much to worry bout…..it’s a good game tho. I hope Argentina take it all the way to the States..what do u think the score will be?

I predict a 3-1 win for Argentina. Riquelme, Ayala and Crespo the scorers.

yea i think a two goal difference at least, but i dunno if USA will score. i think crespo will score, riquelme and either tevez or messi….its almost game time….lets find out!!

Ok, all my friends here on this blog: this is what we’ve all been waiting for, and talking about for one year now. I am about to crap my pants, that is how nervous I am. It is in the middle of the night here in Norway now. Good luck to you all!
Love you all!
Come on Argentina!!!VAMOS!!

USA USA USA USA USA USA USA USA USA USA USA USA USA USA USA USA USA USA USA USA USA USA USA USA USA USA USA USA USA USA USA USA USA USA USA USA USA USA USA USA USA USA USA USA USA USA USA USA USA USA USA USA USA USA USA USA USA USA USA USA USA USA USA USA USA USA USA USA USA USA USA USA USA USA USA USA USA USA USA USA
WOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOT
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Terrible, terrible, terrible. This is a disgrace. you can’t come to a big tournament with a squad like this, and play walking fotball. There is no movement off te ball. Messi seems like he has seen a ghost…has e ever lost the ball as many times in a game as he has in this first half? I want to cry…Our dream is turning into a nightmare. This is the problem with Riquelme…there is no speed in his play..he always slows us down…Bring on Aimar. Messi could easily be subbed now during the break. I am s shocked.

Halftime 1-1 Our boys are holding up against Argentina.. A whole half to go where Argentina still can crush us.. But I like what I am seeing so far..

dam….

Argentina finished off with a strong second half, impressive that they scored 4 goals with only 7 shots.. I hope we can play strong against Paraguay and Colombia.. I would have liked our team having full strength to see how we can fare against their full strength team.

good result in the end, but no good game.I am disappointed. they were walking. where was the hunger? remember, this was a real bad american team, without any of the stars.

Well, well, well. Argentina won. Argentina has great players in the game, and on the bench. I was born here in the U.S.A, but I gotta say, Argentina has much better players, and they love what they do. United States had a real good defense, but Argentina was the winner begining to end. VAMOS ARGENTINA!

oh and when you say Messi has seen a ghost, speak for yourself! I wanted to see Palacio..

hey denovan did u see what the argentinan did to ur AAAA+++ team. 4-1 victory against u dear.I konw u have a very good local sport and thats american football not soccer. U try for that. HAHAHHA

Good game from Argentina, espically the second half.
I do not think the penalty was right though, it seemed like a dive to me.
It seemed that the ball did not want to go in the first half for Argentina.
Good performance for USA, they lsot by three goals only (with help from the ref). Argetina could have made it 5 or 6 in the last few minutes.

Guess what, all the Americans are going to say this was our B-team, it would have been different if files our A-team.
Probably not? I guess it would have been the same.
Americans still aproach football wrongly, they insist on playing always very weak teams at home so that they can feel good about themselves.
And I watched the last Gold Cup for the first time, I watched a few games in 2005 and stopped becuase it was so bad.
The Gols Cup 1007 was the worst Inetrnational Chamipionship I have ever watched ( I have been watching almost every major inetrnation championship since 1986) in terms of organization , refereeing and teams.
The tournment seemed to be staged (and fixed) for USA and Mexico to reach the the final and for USA to win.
Nobody outside a few people in North America watches the shitty Gold Cup. But so many people outside South America watch Copa America.
Viva Argentina
I doubt USA can win a game in this tournement, after seeing how Parguay performed today. I think USA is going to face a tough opponenet and probably lose.

Donovan… man… u feel bad ??? don’t be.. hehehe.. it’s not american football.. it’s soccer.. Dont feel bad alrite.. cox USA played with “The Kings”. n you have to live to see when argentina lift the trophy this time.. OK..!! cheers mate.

hey donovan the us team sucks i think they should stick to football and leave futbol to the argentines we will kill you anytime 4-1 hahaha that pk was bull hahahahaha

Nice game, as I’m a big fan of Argen. Watched the game by TVUPlayer, but throught CCTV5, a Chinese channel. Weird as I don’t understand what they said and they way they called the names was funny, but it was alright.

Looking forward to the next game.

I wonder if USA paid the ref to give that penality like they did in the Gold Cup.
I also admit that I have seen the US players doing something new in the Gold Cup and in the game against Argentia
DIVING.
Johnson dived today as teh other two divers Ching and Beasily were not there.

So…. mmm.. where is Donovan?

To anyone who bad mouthed Argentina and believed they couldnt do it – HA! They really showed you.

NEXT.. Paraguay Vs USA…!!! Donovan ..where the hell r u man!!!

Great game over all, but argentina definately needed to make the changes it made earlier on in the game….and having veron, cambiasso and riquelme on the field at the same time is just too much talent in one area….once he took cambiasso off for aimar, he pulled crespo back and moved him the left which is JUST wut messi needed (had seen a ghost, my butt!)…just give messi a few more chances and he’ll perform miracles…TEVEZ is an amazing key player…….CONGRATULATIONS ALBICELESTE FANS!!!!….HEY…wheres donavan???hey loser,where’d u go??i think u guys r doing good in volleyball too….hahahahah ….get the hell outta south america…u guys were guests, tried to trash talk and deserve nothing less than a big kick in the ass back to DC buddy

Come on donavan be a man!!! It’s okay to be dumb and proud….just come back and face ur shame like a man rather than just reading wut we hae to say while we bag on u behind closed dooors (BTW im an american just like u….but i dun have a sponge for a brain….did u reallly think the US wud do sumthing against Argentina???) IVe been an argentina fan since 1990 and theres nooo reason to cheer the US on, they suck at soccer man…till now they have nooo place in the soccer world when compared to the likes of Argentina and BRAZIL…peace out loser

hey donovan come back man its ok if you dont know anything about soccer we all love you cant you see that

The really important reason I had to submit my comment is to ask Donovan to show up again.

I admire the effort and the discipline of the US team. I cannot say I admire the ignorance and stupidity of Donovan.

Good game for the US after all. However, not enough for Donovan to face the truth. Argentina and Brazil have been rivals at the same level for a century. Nike fooled you. Brazil was absent from major wins for 24 years after Pele. In those years Brazil had excellent teams. It has been similar for Argentina in the last 14 years. One big lesson learned for you Donovan, is that you should watch old games, and try to understand what this is about. With no disrespect to a hard working US team, there still a long way to go. Next time you may be able to show how much you’ve grown. Hope you don’t wait to the 2010 world cup to re-appear. As others said, we are already missing you!

argentina has always been a better team then brazil pele was a great player but garbage compared to maradona talk to anyone who actually knows some soccer pele is the king of soccer and maradona is the god of soccer check it out

Donovan…Donovan..Donovan… Shit.. i heard that he got fever after seeing Argentina Kicked the USA’s ASS…hehehhe !!

Where are you Donovan now, USA got crushed again 3-1 to Paraguay.
I was gonna give teh gold meddale for sucking to Colombia after teh first half against Argentina, But they redemmed themselves a little bit in the second half.
The Gold meddale for SUCKING goes to USA for a an even worst performance against Paraguay.
The defender gave the ball to the opposing striker to score and the striker could not score in an empty net.
It was a very entertaing game USA against Paraguay, I could not have laughed more watching Americans play.
Sorry you could not buy the refs here to give you penlities and cancel correct goals for other teams like the Gold cup.
The excuse of sending the B-team is even funnier, it is like USA has some realy quality players to make an A and B team.
That excuse of a B-team is for Americans and their stupied fedration for the bad performace that they expected before going.
The world knows that their is neither top quality american players neither qaulity football coming from USA.
That will not chnage soon , unless culture changes and USA becomes a football nation.
You build Botom up not top to bottom.

hey, definitely agree about the disappointment i felt about the U.S. not bringing their A team to the copa america. I don’t know why the Gold Cup is played so close to the Copa. But in the defense of the U.S. which is still not a great football power, beating their neighbors to the south (i.e. Mexico) is 10 times more important than a victory over Argentina, and they did that in the final game of the Gold Cup. But for now the U.S. is out of the discussion and let’s focus on the great semifinal games! DALE ARGENTINA!…
Changing topics a bit…does anyone know why Messi changed his number 19 with Cambiasso (number 18)? Is this permanent or just for the Copa?

It’s amusing how people from Ireland, Malasia and Maldives talk trash about the American team, when was the last time you were in the WC?? You’re pathetic.