THE GRAND FINALE
Italy vs France
The World cup draws to a conclusion tonight with a matchup that may surprised many soccer fanatics out there, with big names like Germany and Brazil being ousted out.
'Adieu Italy'
The Domenech side with an ageing contingent, have battled and stuttered their way through the 1st stage. However, their confidence and morale have been accelerating in an exponential fashion as the compeition progresses. From a unexpected contemptible performance in their first two opening matches, i.e. stalemates with Swiss and the Asians, they have gone on to prove the crititcs wrong by triumphing over big names like Spain, Brazil and Portugal, showing once again the classic football movements that won them the World Cup back in 1998. Their path to the final was not as easy as compared to the Azzurris where the latter had only encountered a difficult fixture with the Germans.
Soon-to-retire Zidane produced a goal in France’s 3-1 impressive victory over Spain, followed by vintage display in the sensational 1-0 success against holders Brazil. Zinedine Zidane, odds-on favourite to win the player of the tournament award, has been a leader cum inspirator for the French throughout the tournament. He has displayed amazingly individual dribbles, accurate passes/crosses and dead ball set pieces skills, and to be honest, it's arugably his best World Cup performance to date. Perhaps the thought of the last appearance in international scenes has spurred out the maximum potential out of himself.
'Arrivederci France'
On the other hand, the Italians did not looked like a typical Italian side with their usual attacking flair and movement. They have met up with reasonably weaker teams like Urkaine and Australia. Their real test was against hosts Germany where a incredible two minute performance broke the hearts of the entire German nation. Tonight will be their second real tough test, against a strong-willed French team, eager to prove that they are not the 2002 minnows that exited from the first round without scoring a goal. The Italian's defense has been rock solid throughout the compeition, without conceding a goal scored by an opposition, led by the agile and alert Buffon and Cannavaro. With such a compacted defense, the Italians will do what it does best. Counter-attack. In a 4-5-1 formation, Totti, Gattuso and Pirlo are capable of making electrifying runs. Together with Toni as the lone striker, the also solid French defense, that keep three clean sheets in four games, might bow down to a perhaps 'Butter-fingers' scenario by Fabien Barthez, yet again.
To conquer the French, one man needs to be laid-off. Zinedine Zidane. I am quite confident that the deadly Italian midfield trio should finish this job and will leave Domenech re-evaluating himself on why he has never won a major title as a manager. The match fixing trials with verdicts due tomorrow could have the Italians playing for much more than the World Cup, i.e. Their bleaking career future.
A narrow win by the Italians.
HAIL THE 2006 WORLD CUP CHAMPIONS: ITALY !!
Thursday, July 06, 2006
Sorry guys on my prediction.
France got lucky to have slip off with a 1-0 narrow victory over underrated Portugal yesterday. Though the penalty given was a fair one, Ricardo was unlucky not to save it as he guessed correctly the direction that Zidane had sent the ball to. Neverthless, Portugal had more possession of the ball and were unlucky not to have convert the ball following a Ronaldo thunderous free-kick. The French N0.1 keeper could only pat the ball high up into the sky and the Figo's follow-up header was unfortunate to find its way slightly over the bar. A rare chance to equalise!!
Lilian Thuram had been governing France's entire backline and he did it in superb style yesterday. The 34 year-old veteran was the main source of inspiration for defense throughout the match, having to fend off a well organised attack led by Figo and Ronaldo with their mazy runs, passes and shots. Following a undeserved loss in Allianz Arena, Portgual may have lost their fighting spirit and looks all possible to continue their streak. I fancied the Germans to snap up third place and the Portugese to go home empty-handed.
For Zidane, it would be his dream retirement from international soccer scenes should France go on and beat the italians. Let's stay tuned for a world-class match-up between Italy and France. The World Cup Final that everyone has been waiting for in 4 years!!
Finally I have the blogs up...
English Premier League
Serie A
La Liga
German Bundesliga
Champion League
Thank you for your support!
Wednesday, July 05, 2006
Portugal vs France
Just like yesterday, I got a feeling that the underdogs will prevail once again. The bookmakers has been over-rating France since the start of World Cup.
The unexpected French victory over Brazil, would be the key reason why France is favourite today. The goal that Henry scored was quite a giveaway as there was "no one" marking him. A big mistake by the 'off-form' big guns. I'm expecting Portugal defense to be in maximum alert today, and with the petite Ricardo in superb hot form who embarrass the England boys by making superb penalty saves, the French will have difficulty in breaking its last line of defense.
With the likes of World Class players like Deco, C. Ronaldo, Pauleta and Maniche; Portugal is really worthy of at least a second place in this World Cup.
Let's talk about another crucial factor. The coach factor. Let's face it. Domenech's quiet nature may not protray a positive role model for his players. He may be a great gentleman, or even a successful businessman but he might lack an air of commanding aura around him. This may proved to be a major disadvantage when compared to the ever fiery and commanding Scolari. Remember the Portugal-Holland match? Cold-blooded, quiet Van Basten against fiery Scolari. We might face the same situation here again. No doubt, Scolari can really boost team motivation with his mimics and body language. His competence is further backed up by leading the Brazilians to the Cup victory back in Korea Japan 2002, hence his shrewdness in tactics and choosing the correct players will be one of the key factors should Portugal proceed to the finals.
I'm really confident in Scolari and his boys. Therefore my pick is Portugal to qualify!
Let's await to a Italy-Portgual Final!! Cheers!!
Tuesday, July 04, 2006
Latest update on the future of this site
I'll still be providing predictions.
I will be making predictions on all matches in English Premier League,
Spanish La Liga, German Bundesliga and Italian Serie A. UEFA cup and Champion League Cup will also be included.
Stay tuned to developments in these upcoming blogs!
The first blog is up....
English Premier League
Germany vs Italy
ITALY has started the major tournament slowly but they are slowly gaining strength like a bullet train. I am confident that they can steam on tonight’s World Cup semi-final.The Italians crushed Germany 4-1 in a recent friendly match in Florence and the emotional effects will surely favor the underdogs and give them a unfair advantage. The Germans are full of confidence at the moment but QUESTION is : Will this be enough? Germany's performance against Argentina was not that good, however we are bound to see some strange decisions from the officials again tonight, favoring the hosts. Home advantage has been a major reason for the Germans in their advances throughout this competition if you have been an avid follower. The German defense held a tight line at the expense of making the midfield work too hard with the ground they had to cover. How much has that taken out of them?
With Luca Toni shining in the previous game, this will skyrocket his confidence to an unbelieveable level and cause the German defense a lot of problems.With the suspended Matarazzi back in the Italian defense they should be strong and tactful enough to withstand the early pressure from the Germans. It will be no easy job BUT the Italians will have too much about them for the Germans and progress to the final.
Italy to progress to the much awaited final.
Saturday, July 01, 2006
Tuesday, June 27, 2006
Germany vs Argentina
Rare Analysis today!!
It's probably the most famous classic game when Germany play hosts to Argentina in the quarterfinals.
Germany silenced their critics following a fine performance in the World Cup on home soil, which saw them topping Group A before beating Sweden 2-0 in the second round. The Mannschaft have also kept three consecutive clean sheets on their way to the last eight. On the other hand, Argentina is the most entertaining team in this World Cup depite having hard times in their last two matches against Holland and Mexico.
The history slightly favours Germany in terms of matches played in the World Cup. Here are the results of their matches in the World Cup so far:
1958 (Swe): W.Germany vs. Argentina 3-1
1966 (Eng): W.Germany vs. Argentina 0-0
1986 (Mex): W.Germany vs. Argentina 3-2
1990 (Ita): W.Germany vs. Argentina 1-0
As it is evident on past records, Germany has not lost to Argentina in the World Cup on a European soil.
Yes, Argentina is arguably the better team in 2006. But again the home field advantage during the World Cup should not be underestimated. Additionally, the refereeing may be a decisive factor as well. Hence, I'll side the home side today.
Famous Germany Win today!
Italy vs Ukraine
Italy is too strong for Ukraine. An Italy win tonite.
Monday, June 26, 2006
Sunday, June 25, 2006
England vs Ecuador
England's performance in this world cup is terrible. Ecuador, on the other hand, has displayed superb performance. This match will most likely head for extra time. Who knows, Ecuador may be able to settle the match within 90 mins.
Portugal vs Netherlands
Portugal will not lose this match within 90 mins.
Saturday, June 24, 2006
Friday, June 23, 2006
Thursday, June 22, 2006
Wednesday, June 21, 2006
Tuesday, June 20, 2006
Monday, June 19, 2006
Havent been able to blog my predictions for the past few days. For my regular readers, I'm really sorry to keep u waiting. I'm back now!
Saudi Arabia vs Ukraine
Saudi Arabia will not lose this game by more than a goal. A draw is highly possible.
Spain vs Tunisia
Spain will not be winning this match by more than a goal. A draw will not be surprising.
Tuesday, June 13, 2006
Group G13th June 2006
France vs Switzerland
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Prediction: France 1-0 or 2-1
Second game of the Group G. France and Switzerland already met twice in the qualification phase; THE RESULT : two draws (0-0, 1-1). The '98 champions has since won all his last friendlies (Mexico 1-0, Denmark 2-0, China 3-1) whereas Switzerland drew twice (Italy 1-1, Ivory Coast 1-1) and won against China 4-1.What a French team - Barthez, Sagnol, Thuram, Gallas, Abidal, Wiltord, Makelele, Ribery. It seems more a “Rest of the World” rather than a simple national team. And only if we add names like “David Trezeguet, Zidane,Vieira and Herny”, France would sound decent and powerful.
Seems like Switzerland have no chance at all. Well, think again. Switzerland's draws against France were not chanced upon. Memories struck in my brain that apparently in one of the ocassions, the Swiss team had well deserved to win as they had more goal-scoring chances than France.
Switzerland would not be playing a little role in this World Cup. With two years before the European Championship commences in Austria and Switzerland, the Swiss team has since created a young and dymanic team, ready to obtain good results now and also in 2008. After the “Battle at Istanbul”, they have simply no reasons to accept a defeat now.
Now that we have understood that the Suisse consists of amateur players that are not to be undermined, here comes a new big doubt: Who will stop Thierry Henry? Simple. His Arsenal's club mates Philippe Senderos and Johan Djourou. The star-studded team is so so hungry for a win following a disgrace first round exit (with no goals scored) from '02 World Cup with a series of flops and under performance. Their past lack-lustre performance will certainly raised eyebrows this time round. Would they do it again? Will Herny flop again?
From the looks of it, if Herny is able to maintain his Champion League form, the French would be able a scrap off a win in Stuttgart as they are simply a class above their opponents.
Monday, June 12, 2006
Matchday 4
Group E
Italy vs Ghana
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12th June 2006
Prediction: Italy 1-1
With Lippi confirming that Totti will play in this match, Italy is surely fielding a 4-3-3 formation. Although Lippi is still very secretive on the first XI, he gave away that Luca Toni will be playing either Vincenzo or Alberto. With the current form of Vincenzo, the Azurri camp will definitely put a lot of pressure on Ghana's defence.
However, in the past two friendlies, the Italian midfield has failed to provide the vital delivery to its strikeforce. Furthermore, Ghana midfield is very experienced and extremely accustomed to keeping the ball. Ghana may not have a very impressive strikeforce but its ability to keep the ball in possession may very well frustrate and tire the italians.
Expect some goals for Ghana on the counter when the italians are off-guard. This game looks set for a 1-1 draw.
Sunday, June 11, 2006
Group D11th June 2006
Mexico vs Iran
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Prediction: Mexico 3-1 or 3-2
First game in Group D. Since the other 2 teams are the top favourite Portugal and the outsider Angola, 3 points here will give huge advantage for the winner. Mexico is the favourite, but not like what the odds suggested. Their offensive play mainly relies on the heading abilities by Borgheti and G.Franco. They are good forwards, but Mexico style of play is too predictable. On the other side we have Iran - team with very good midfield line, but too weak in defence. With experienced players based in Germany like Ali Karimi, Mahdavikia and co, they can indeed cause a lot of problems for the Mexican defense. But with the absence of defender Sattar Zare, this will certainly add to amateur Iran's defensive woes. They are scoring a lot of goals, but conceding alot too.
Predictable as it may seems, statistics has always shown a superior performance by the South American team in the world's most prestigious soccer tournament . What's more , their opponents are not even regular participants in this competition; experience is maybe depriving them of a win or even a draw tonite. All in one, I expect this to be an open game and lot of goals will flow in as the Mexican keeper Sanchez may not be in the right state of mood following his father's funeral on Wednesday, i.e. if he were to play in time.
An easy win for the green team.
Saturday, June 10, 2006
Group B10th June 2006
England vs Paraguay
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Prediction: Paraguay draw 0-0 or upset win 0-1
Liverpool's Peter Crouch will deputize for the injured Rooney and the England star looks on a speedy recovery in time for the knockout stages (if England ever make it). Although the Liverpool striker show signs of scoring form recently from EPL matches, he has always problems of putting the ball in the net under point blank situations. With that in mind, it's now up to his compatriot Steven Gerrard at the mersey side club to incinerate the England attack and conjure the goals or even scoring them.
On the other side, Paraguay’s striker Roque Santa Cruz has declared himself fit to play after recovering from a knee injury. Cruz's return for Paraguay will be a major boost for Coach Anibal Ruiz, who has already lost striker Jose Cardozo to injury. The Bayern Munich forward is Paraguay's biggest threat to England, while Carlos Paredes will battle it out with Gerrard and Frank Lampard for control of the midfield.
On a Head-to-Heads record, England and Paraguay have met each other twice before. In 1986, England won 3-0 at the second round stage of the World Cup in Mexico. In 2002, England beat Paraguay 4-0, this time in a friendly international. Despite all statistics favouring the strong European team, I still want to go against the odds today.
Reason: Paraguay is a highly defensive team and the warm-up matches has proven South American team is capable of forestalling its opponents in attack although the opponents are relatively quite weak in attack. With the absence of England golden boy Rooney, I think Paraguay might be able to pull off a low scoring draw here or an upset win.
Friday, June 09, 2006
Latest Updates
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Bad news for German fans!
Good news for Costa Rican fans!
Ballack wont be playing tonite due to a late injury.
This is really going to be a tough match for the German team tonite, without the influential Ballack to pull the strings from midfield. The Germans definitely are not register an impressive start in the opening match!
Thursday, June 08, 2006
World Cup 2006 in ......TWO more days! And of course, I will be placing bets as I enjoy my favourite sport event. From today onwards, the website will be updated with my confident prediction of all the matches in the World Cup. So stay tune for my latest predictions! :D
MatchDay 1Matchday 1, 9 June 2006
Group A
Germany vs Costa Rica
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Prediction: Germany to win 2-0 or 2-1
Analysis:
The whole world will be watching this opening game between Germany and Costa Rica. This is the opening game and 47 games will follow. This is the Costa Rica’s third participation in the world championship. Costa Rica is a young team with a mixture of young and experienced players whereas the Germans are known all around the world and are experienced enough to win this opening game.
Although Costa Rica has shown an unbelievable poor state in friendly matches pre-tournament and gotten their qualification after a mediocre football game showed in the Center-American Group, this dark horse team is not to be underestimated with the likes of Wanchope , Centeno and Martinez, some of the bigger names in the sport. With a unfancied dark horse 1-0 win in the opening match by Senegal against France back in 2002, history will probably repeat itself and the Costa Ricans will put on a fierce resistance against the mighty Germans.
However, having said that, with Ballack in attacking midfield and the tall almighty Klose with his trademark header, the Germans might be able to pull off a tough win here due to home ground advantage.
