European Competitions (Intertoto, UEFA, CL)

Since the Intertoto is under way, we need our very own european competitions thread.


BTW since we have our own board, I suggest we make a thread for each league rather than just a "european leagues thread".

First surprise, Villareal lost 2-1 on home field against Maribor (Slovenia) who eliminated Lyon from the CL a while back.

I watched Marseille-Dniepropetrovsk saturday... It was overall a good game for the beginning of the season.
Marseille dominated most of the game with some clear scoring chances for pagis, Niang or Maoulida including a one on one and 2 posts. The game finished at 0-0 unfortunatly. Marseille kept most of his roster from last season and they showed some nice plays. They clearly missed Ribery as Nasri was a little disappointment. But the Pagis (what a wizard!)-Maoulida-Niang line was effective. Youngster Valbuena (French 3rd level MVP) was a pleasant surprise. I expect Marseille to be more ready for the 2nd leg saturday, even away.

Auxerre won 4-1 vs Farul Constanta (Romania) with goals by Pieroni, Mathis, Kahlenberg and youngster Alain Traore from the academy. It's going to be easier for the 2nd leg.

BTW since we have our own board, I suggest we make a thread for each league rather than just a "european leagues thread".

Sounds good to me, I'll help out witht he EPL thread.

On the Intertoto front, Luque pulled Newcastle's butt out with his second half goal and for the 1-1 tie with Lillestrom. If we don't get another striker soon to play with Luque, I will be stuck watching Ameobi for another season. We better play better at their place next week or we have no chance of getting into Europe.

I watched Marseille-Dniepropetrovsk saturday... It was overall a good game for the beginning of the season.
Marseille dominated most of the game with some clear scoring chances for pagis, Niang or Maoulida including a one on one and 2 posts. The game finished at 0-0 unfortunatly. Marseille kept most of his roster from last season and they showed some nice plays. They clearly missed Ribery as Nasri was a little disappointment. But the Pagis (what a wizard!)-Maoulida-Niang line was effective. Youngster Valbuena (French 3rd level MVP) was a pleasant surprise. I expect Marseille to be more ready for the 2nd leg saturday, even away.

Auxerre won 4-1 vs Farul Constanta (Romania) with goals by Pieroni, Mathis, Kahlenberg and youngster Alain Traore from the academy. It's going to be easier for the 2nd leg.

Marseille will have an uphill battle, coming into Dnipro. It was a major mistake on Marseille's behalf on not getting a goal on home territory, and at this point it may cost them.

Marseille will have an uphill battle, coming into Dnipro. It was a major mistake on Marseille's behalf on not getting a goal on home territory, and at this point it may cost them.

I have to agree... unfortunatly, it's the begining of the season, they just finished training camp. Pagis came back from injury and couldn't finish the game, Ribery was in holidays and Marseille doesn't have a killer in front (i.e. 2 posts). They sometimes looked a little shaky in defense as well... The lone thing which was a little boring was the consistant faked injuries from Dniepr, pushing Marseille to give up the ball and stop the play... but it didn't have an effect on the result.

I happened to watch Larissa vs Kayserispor last Saturday. Very boring match, each side missed a glorious opportunity. A LOT of yellow cards.

I think Kayser has the advantage heading back into Turkey, but if Larissa can score one, it will be interesting.

FYI...Dimitris Grammozis (formerly of the Bundesliga) signed with AEL Larissa this past weekend. I wonder if he'll dress for the match. Quality signing for this provincial Greek club.

Marseille is qualified after blewing a 2-goal lead late in the game. Tie 2-2 at Dniepropetrovsk. Goals by Niang (who missed a lot today) and Oruma after a nice work by Niang. Overall, good game by Marseille, I liked Cana and Maoulida in that game. But again the defense is shaky and don't know how to protect a lead. Zubar helps but too many panic by his teamates.
Auxerre lost 1-0 away but advances thanks to the 4-1 win in the 1st leg.

Surprise of the day : Villareal is eliminated! After scoring at the 85th minute, they were tied by Maribor at 89th...

Marseille is qualified after blewing a 2-goal lead late in the game. Tie 2-2 at Dniepropetrovsk. Goals by Niang (who missed a lot today) and Oruma after a nice work by Niang. Overall, good game by Marseille, I liked Cana and Maoulida in that game. But again the defense is shaky and don't know how to protect a lead. Zubar helps but too many panic by his teamates.
Auxerre lost 1-0 away but advances thanks to the 4-1 win in the 1st leg.

Surprise of the day : Villareal is eliminated! After scoring at the 85th minute, they were tied by Maribor at 89th...

:eek:

Maribor is no joke, Villarreal obviously didn't take the first leg seriously (watched the match) and it was always going to be tough in Slovenian against the only team with any fan support. Congrats to Maribor, always good to see Slovenian or Croatian clubs knock out the "big boys" but sadly we don't see that much in recent years

MARIBOR :yo:

Sigh, for the third time in three years Hamburg has to play against a spanish team to advance to the real competition...
Somehow I doubt that they can beat Osasuna; I already know who will score the goals against, someone who shouldn't have been sold in the first place. :banghead:

Full draw :

- Lille (FRA) contre Debrecen (HON) ou Rabotnicki (MCD)
- Sheriff (MOL) ou Spartak Moscou (RUS) contre Slovan Liberec (RTC)
- Shaktar Donetsk (UKR) contre Hafnarfjördur (ISL) ou Legia Varsovie (POL)
- FC Zurich (SUI) ou Salzbourg (AUT) contre FC Valence (ESP)
- Levski Sofia (BUL) ou Sioni Bolnisi (GEO) contre Chievo Vérone (ITA)
- Heart of Midlothian (ECO) ou Siroki Brijeg (BIH) contre AEK Athènes (GRE)
- CSKA Moscou (RUS) contre Djurgarden (SUE) ou Ruzomberok (SLQ)
- AC Milan (ITA) contre Cork City (IRL) ou Etoile Rouge Belgrade (SEM)
- Galatasary (TUR) contre Mlada Boleslav ou Valerenga (NOR)
- Standard Liège (BEL) contre Gorica (SLO) ou Steaua Bucarest (ROU)
- Austria Vienne (AUT) contre Benfica (POR)
- Ekranas (LIT) ou Dinamo Zagreb (CRO) contre Arsenal (ANG)
- FC Copenhague (DAN) ou Myllykosken Pallo (FIN) contre Ajax Amsterdam (HOL)
- Hambourg (ALL) contre Osasuna (ESP)
- Liepajas Metalurgs (LAT) ou Dynamo Kiev (UKR) contre Fenerbahçe Istanbul (TUR) ou B36 Thorshavn (FRO)
- Liverpool (ANG) contre Maccabi Haïfa (ISR)

Only big matchup is Hamburg/Osasuna.

Liverpool, Ajax, Arsenal and Benfica should be careful as well.

Only big matchup is Hamburg/Osasuna.

Liverpool, Ajax, Arsenal and Benfica should be careful as well.The possible Dynamo Kyiv - Fenerbahçe could be a good one as well.

Only big matchup is Hamburg/Osasuna.

Liverpool, Ajax, Arsenal and Benfica should be careful as well.Liverpool and Arsenal against Maccabi and Dinamo Zagreb risk but Milan against Belgrad Red star not? :rolleyes:

Liverpool and Arsenal against Maccabi and Dinamo Zagreb risk but Milan against Belgrad Red star not? :rolleyes:
No because Milan should never be in the CL. :)

UEFA draw :
SV Ried (AUT) 10/08 24/08 FC Sion (SUI)
FC Bâle (SUI) 10/08 24/08 FC Vaduz (LIE)
OB Odense (DAN) 10/08 24/08 Llanelli (GAL)
FK Suduva (LIT) 10/08 24/08 FC Bruges (BEL)
Molde FK (NOR) 10/08 24/08 Skonto Riga (LET)
Karvan (AZE) 10/08 24/08 Slavia Prague (RTC)
OFK Belgrade (SEM) 10/08 24/08 Auxerre (FRA)
SK Tirana (ALB) 10/08 24/08 Kayserispor (TUR)
CSKA Sofia (BUL) 10/08 24/08 Hajduk Kula (SEM)
Hertha Berlin (ALL) 10/08 24/08 FC Tbilissi (GEO)
Apoel Nicosie (CHY) 10/08 24/08 Trabzonspor (TUR)
Marseille (FRA) 10/08 24/08 Young Boys Berne (SUI)
FC Sarajevo (BOS) 10/08 24/08 Rapid Bucarest (ROU)
Hapoël Tel-Aviv (ISR) 10/08 24/08 NK Domzale (SLN)
FC Flora Tallinn (EST) 10/08 24/08 Bröndby IF (DAN)
Omonia Nicosie (CHY) 10/08 24/08 Litex Lovech (BUL)
Fehervar (HON) 10/08 24/08 Grasshopper Zürich (SUI)
SK Roselare (BEL) 10/08 24/08 Ethnikos Akhnas (CHY)
Partizan Belgrade (SEM) 10/08 24/08 NK Maribor (SLN)
Rubin Kazan (RUS) 10/08 24/08 FC Bate Borisov (BLR)
FBK Kaunas (LIT) 10/08 24/08 Randers Freja FC (DAN)
FC Twente (HOL) 10/08 24/08 FC Levadia Tallinn (EST)
SV Mattersburg (AUT) 10/08 24/08 Wisla Cracovie (POL)
Dinamo Bucarest (ROU) 10/08 24/08 Beitar Jérusalem (ISR)
Ventspils (LET) 10/08 24/08 Newcastle United (ANG)
Start Kristiansand (NOR) 10/08 24/08 Drogheda United (IRL)
Bnei Yehuda (ISR) 10/08 24/08 Lokomotiv Sofia (BUL)
Artmedia Bratislava (SLQ) 10/08 24/08 Dinamo Minsk (BLR)
SK Brann Bergen (NOR) 10/08 24/08 Atvidaberg SFF (SUE)
Chernomorets Odessa (UKR) 10/08 24/08 Wisla Plock (POL)

Nice, Milan gets punished with a very difficult tie :rolleyes:

Liverpool might have a few logistical problems there......

- Liverpool (ANG) contre Maccabi Haïfa (ISR)

Let's go Maccabi!!!

No because Milan should never be in the CL. :)

UEFA draw :
SV Ried (AUT) 10/08 24/08 FC Sion (SUI)
FC Bâle (SUI) 10/08 24/08 FC Vaduz (LIE)
OB Odense (DAN) 10/08 24/08 Llanelli (GAL)
FK Suduva (LIT) 10/08 24/08 FC Bruges (BEL)
Molde FK (NOR) 10/08 24/08 Skonto Riga (LET)
Karvan (AZE) 10/08 24/08 Slavia Prague (RTC)
OFK Belgrade (SEM) 10/08 24/08 Auxerre (FRA)
SK Tirana (ALB) 10/08 24/08 Kayserispor (TUR)
CSKA Sofia (BUL) 10/08 24/08 Hajduk Kula (SEM)
Hertha Berlin (ALL) 10/08 24/08 FC Tbilissi (GEO)
Apoel Nicosie (CHY) 10/08 24/08 Trabzonspor (TUR)
Marseille (FRA) 10/08 24/08 Young Boys Berne (SUI)
FC Sarajevo (BOS) 10/08 24/08 Rapid Bucarest (ROU)
Hapoël Tel-Aviv (ISR) 10/08 24/08 NK Domzale (SLN)
FC Flora Tallinn (EST) 10/08 24/08 Bröndby IF (DAN)
Omonia Nicosie (CHY) 10/08 24/08 Litex Lovech (BUL)
Fehervar (HON) 10/08 24/08 Grasshopper Zürich (SUI)
SK Roselare (BEL) 10/08 24/08 Ethnikos Akhnas (CHY)
Partizan Belgrade (SEM) 10/08 24/08 NK Maribor (SLN)
Rubin Kazan (RUS) 10/08 24/08 FC Bate Borisov (BLR)
FBK Kaunas (LIT) 10/08 24/08 Randers Freja FC (DAN)
FC Twente (HOL) 10/08 24/08 FC Levadia Tallinn (EST)
SV Mattersburg (AUT) 10/08 24/08 Wisla Cracovie (POL)
Dinamo Bucarest (ROU) 10/08 24/08 Beitar Jérusalem (ISR)
Ventspils (LET) 10/08 24/08 Newcastle United (ANG)
Start Kristiansand (NOR) 10/08 24/08 Drogheda United (IRL)
Bnei Yehuda (ISR) 10/08 24/08 Lokomotiv Sofia (BUL)
Artmedia Bratislava (SLQ) 10/08 24/08 Dinamo Minsk (BLR)
SK Brann Bergen (NOR) 10/08 24/08 Atvidaberg SFF (SUE)
Chernomorets Odessa (UKR) 10/08 24/08 Wisla Plock (POL)

You forgot,

CSF Zimbru Chisinau (MDA) v FC Metalurh Zaporizhzhya (UKR)

Although I support Hajduk, I wish Dinamo Zagreb the best because Croatian soccer needs all the points they can get. Tough draw but it should certainly be a crazy atmosphere in Maksimir, 40,000 hopefully and a similar atmosphere to the one we saw against Brazil in the WC.

I am realistic an will say Arsenal will win both matches but it certainly will not be a blow out. Dinamo got very young defenders which may not handle Henry and co. but experienced guys like Nowotny, Vugrinec and Mamic can help this team out.

Milan admitted by Emergency Panel (http://www.uefa.com/competitions/UCL/news/Kind=1/newsId=441316.html)

UEFA's Emergency Panel has admitted AC Milan to the UEFA Champions League third qualifying round. Consequently, the Italian club will play against either FK Crvena Zvezda or Cork City FC as per the draw made last Friday at UEFA headquarters in Nyon. [...]

Milan admitted by Emergency Panel (http://www.uefa.com/competitions/UCL/news/Kind=1/newsId=441316.html)

UEFA's Emergency Panel has admitted AC Milan to the UEFA Champions League third qualifying round. Consequently, the Italian club will play against either FK Crvena Zvezda or Cork City FC as per the draw made last Friday at UEFA headquarters in Nyon. [...]

:thumbd: UEFA sounds like they didn't want to accept them into the CL, but had no legal grounds to impose it.

Milan admitted by Emergency Panel (http://www.uefa.com/competitions/UCL/news/Kind=1/newsId=441316.html)

UEFA's Emergency Panel has admitted AC Milan to the UEFA Champions League third qualifying round. Consequently, the Italian club will play against either FK Crvena Zvezda or Cork City FC as per the draw made last Friday at UEFA headquarters in Nyon. [...]

Really stupid that Milan gets a pushover when teams like Arsenal or Hamburg who got in legitimately have fairly tough draws. I have lost so much respect for Italian authorities over the past couple weeks (no offense Helice).

Not to nitpick, but are Crvena Zvezda really a much easier draw than Dinamo? Or Osasuna for that matter?

Milan admitted by Emergency Panel (http://www.uefa.com/competitions/UCL/news/Kind=1/newsId=441316.html)

UEFA's Emergency Panel has admitted AC Milan to the UEFA Champions League third qualifying round. Consequently, the Italian club will play against either FK Crvena Zvezda or Cork City FC as per the draw made last Friday at UEFA headquarters in Nyon. [...]

They stay cheaters for me....and the UEFA should´ve sticked to their guns, but they´re backing down to throw out a 'big club'....:shakehead

Not to nitpick, but are Crvena Zvezda really a much easier draw than Dinamo? Or Osasuna for that matter?

Just realized I was being a bit daft, anyways, I certainly rather play them than Osuana, not too sure about Dinamo Zagreb though.

I am happy that AC Milan are in, we don't get to see garbage like Crvena Zvezda in the CL

Anyway, Dinamo Zagreb are very good at home where they will pack the place and sing, cheer and go nuts for the whole 90 minutes. They have a good mix of young players from the Croatia U21s and some experienced players like Jens Nowotny, Davor Vugrinec and Zoran Mamic all who played in top leagues a few years ago.

In my opinion, Arsenal should advance but it will not be easy for them

Dynamo Kyiv are looking dangerous, they've outscored the opposition 17 - 2 in the past 4 games (inlcluding league and europe) and are definitly on a hot streak.

They have a good mix of young players from the Croatia U21s and some experienced players like Jens Nowotny, Davor Vugrinec and Zoran Mamic all who played in top leagues a few years ago. mmh.. Vugrinec looked like history in his last seasons in Italy though.

he is in excellent form though and was one of the top scorers in the Croatian league last season but again, playing Arsenal is much different than playing the likes of Kamen Ingrad, NK Sibenik etc..

:biglaugh:
This smilie is dedicated to all the people who thinks Milan playing the CL is a scandal.

:biglaugh:
And this other one if for all the people who'll reply at this post flaming me.


Once again, a lot of people doesn't have a clue about what's talking about...

:biglaugh:
This smilie is dedicated to all the people who thinks Milan playing the CL is a scandal.

:biglaugh:
And this other one if for all the people who'll reply at this post flaming me.


Once again, a lot of people doesn't have a clue about what's talking about...

yep, people just love to jump on the hate bandwagon.

im really looking forward to the Dynamo Kiev v Fener match. IMO, these are two tough sides that I wouldn't mind seeing in the group stages every season.

Also, I think the AEK v Hearts matchup is intriguing. Both these teams seem to be in a similar phase of development. Domestically, they are trying to break up the hierarchy (Celtic/Rangers & Olympiakos/Panathinaikos)...Now is their opportunity, as both clubs have new and ambitious ownership, and Rangers and Panathinaikos have slipped from the level they've been at for the past couple of years. What's needed for both of these sides to break out is a quality run in Europe.

I'm hearing that Hearts are going through another 'youth movement'. People are suggesting that it would be a shocker if they were to finish 2nd again.

I'm looking forward to the Dynamo/Fenerbahce matchup too, Dynamo hasn't been playing this well in a while, playing against Fenerbahce should be a good measuring stick.

Arsenal up 3-0 against Dinamo Zagreb. Fabregas has 2 goals and RvP has one as well. If Zagreb could score, I would be spot on with my XT prediction (I also predicted RvP as a scorer :D ).

It's also interesting that Reyes isn't playing. Looks like he is gone for sure.

It's also interesting that Reyes isn't playing. Looks like he is gone for sure.

If it's basically swapping Reyes for Ribery, I'm all for it.

EDIT: That probably belongs in the shopping thread.

Arsenal up 3-0 against Dinamo Zagreb. Fabregas has 2 goals and RvP has one as well. If Zagreb could score, I would be spot on with my XT prediction (I also predicted RvP as a scorer :D ).

Great Result. It'll be interesting to see what happens with all the transfer speculation in the next week or so.

It'll be too bad if Reyes moves to Real, as I love that guys heart and determination... but he never turned out to be a great fit with Henry. Ribery is unbelievable and would look great in an arsenal shirt, I would just hope rumours of a poor attitude aren't true.

There certainly seems to be a nasty cold going around with all these players not getting cup tied.:sarcasm:

3:0 was not the fair score but oh well, congrats to Arsenal :shakehead

first 60 minutes Arsenal had some good possession but they never really created a clear chance and most of their long balls were way off target while Dinamo were able to string a few good passes on counter attacks but none of their shots hit the target.

One defensive error and breakdown and Arsenal were able to score and that left Dinamo out of it as they conceded two more. Realistically Arsenal converted their chances but in no way did they outplay Dinamo. Just shows how superior English clubs are to EE clubs

Standard is really in turmoil going into tonight's vital CL qualifier against Steau Bucarest. Only 3 from last year's starting XI will be on the pitch tonight, and confidence is really low after losing their first two league games against inferior opposition.

Coach Boskamp will once again be without Sergio Conceicao, Oguchi Onyewou (still looking for a transfer?) and new striker Igor de Camargo. It will be interesting to see what type of game they will be able to play tonight, perhaps the wounded animal will come out surprisingly strong?

Lille beat Skopje 3-0 in the first leg of the CL preliminary round. All goals were scored in the last 30 minutes.

I see Lille do some damage this season both in the domestic league and in the CL.

yeah but Rabotnicki are horrible, I was expecting 5:0 :D

I've been watching Hamburg - Osasuna: very tight game with little chances. Hamburg are the more willing to go forward but Osasuna can't be trusted on the counter.
0-0 half time.



Meanwhile Liverpool has just kicked off, a pretty defensive start from Rafa, 4-5-1 with Gerrard playing off Bellamy, I have to question that tactic in a game like this. Xabi, Momo center of midfield, Zenden on the left and Pennant on the right.

It could have been more than 5-0 without 2 posts and several missed sitters or good saves... Lille dominatec cleanly this leg.
I find Lille better and better, especially technically. Losing less balls, playing with speed passing game... More entertaining than last year.
Hopefully they'll manage to play with more confidence and authority in CL (assuming the don't blow their 3-0 advantage).

Ajax is starting in traditional fashion, playing like they always do during the first games of the season; horrible!

Somehow they managed to score but the game is tied going into the 2nd half (1-1). I don't think I even need to report who scored for Ajax just that his last name starts with an H and ends with untelaar.

Huntelaar will have a tough time to leave now because he can't play the CL for Inter, Lyon or whatever before the 2nd round...

Ajax is starting in traditional fashion, playing like they always do during the first games of the season; horrible!

Somehow they managed to score but the game is tied going into the 2nd half (1-1). I don't think I even need to report who scored for Ajax just that his last name starts with an H and ends with untelaar.

And somehow they managed to get up 2-1..

Again, I don't need to tell you who scored.. :biglaugh:

Standard is 2-2 now after going behind first. Rapaic scored two goals but Marin has just scored the 2-2 after a mistake by Standard keeper Renard.


Even more shockingly: Liverpool 1-1 Maccabi Haifa at half time. The Israeli's took a shock lead and Bellamy equalised. Hopefully Rafa goes back to a real 4-4-2 and score a few because that away goal will be important

Hamburg-Osasuna, talk about a game of wasted chances...

Hamburg had something like 25 shots while Osasuna had three really big chances, but neither could score, even though they should have. Actually, Osasuna did score, but it was offside.

I really don't understand how a coach can sub like that. Doll always seems to make weird decisions in that regard. Pulls the most dangerous midfielder for a third attacker and the control of the game is lost. This looks exactly like the end of last season, chances to win three games, but they couldn't score if their life depended on it.

AEK Athens dominated the whole game against Hearts in Scotland but needed 2 late goals to win...



AEK Athens snatch late 2-1 win over Hearts
Reuters
Thursday August 10, 8:04 AM

EDINBURGH, Aug 9 (Reuters) - AEK Athens came from behind to snatch a 2-1 victory over 10-man Hearts after scoring twice in the final minutes of their Champions League third qualifying round match on Wednesday.

Lithuanian Saulius Mikoliunas put Hearts in front in the first leg match at Murrayfield, squeezing home a near-post shot in the 62nd minute from six metres.

But Hearts were rocked four minutes later when Portugese midfielder Bruno Aguiar was sent off for a second bookable offence.

They looked to have held on for a win until Pantelis Kapetanos headed an equaliser for the Greek side with two minutes left.

The winner came in stoppage time as Nikolaos Liberopoulous's shot was deflected into the net off Christophe Berra for an own goal that put the Greeks firmly in charge for the second leg.

"The sending off cost us the match," said Hearts manager Valdas Ivanauskas. "Bruno was very angry in the dressing room.

"It wasn't even with a full team and the players are angry about the last four minutes."

GREEK VISION

AEK manager Lorenzo Serra Ferrer added: "We always had a vision (we would win)...and we worked very hard. You have to remember it is our first game (this season) and Hearts have played more than us."

The Spaniard's AEK side dominated the match and hit the woodwork twice in the first half with Liberopoulous guiding a third minute header against the bar.

Hearts responded with a 20-metre deflected shot from Lithuanian Mikoliunas that struck Italian defender Bruno Cirillo and swerved against the far post after 12 minutes.

AEK's Julio Cesar caused chaos with a string of corners and eight minutes before the break the Brazilian curled over a near post effort that forced Hearts's Czech Republic forward Michael Pospisil to head the ball high against his own post.

However, the home side snatched a surprise second half lead when another Czech Republic striker Roman Bednar struck a low 10-metre shot from the left against the post and Mikoliunas tucked home the rebound from close range.

AEK levelled after 88 minutes with a looping header from Kapetanos then Liberopoulos rifled a 20-metre shot that struck Berra and spun away from keeper Craig Gordon for the winner.

im really looking forward to the Dynamo Kiev v Fener match. IMO, these are two tough sides that I wouldn't mind seeing in the group stages every season.

Also, I think the AEK v Hearts matchup is intriguing. Both these teams seem to be in a similar phase of development. Domestically, they are trying to break up the hierarchy (Celtic/Rangers & Olympiakos/Panathinaikos)...Now is their opportunity, as both clubs have new and ambitious ownership, and Rangers and Panathinaikos have slipped from the level they've been at for the past couple of years. What's needed for both of these sides to break out is a quality run in Europe.


Actually AEK is considered 1 of the big 3... They had major problems in the past few years...

Hearts is the 3rd best team of Scotland.

Standard is 2-2 now after going behind first. Rapaic scored two goals but.. :eek:
Milan Rapajc?! Still playing at high level!? What about his paunch at the moment?

Liverpool 1-1 Maccabi Haifa at half time. The Israeli's took a shock lead and Bellamy equalised. Nice acquisition, isn't it? :snide:

Rapaic was actually called up to the national team, he will be a "joker" (is this word used in English?) the guy who will come on in the final 15-20 minutes to spark some offense

It took 5 minutes for Taiwe Taiwo to get red carded in the Intertoto action tonight Bern-OM.
No wonder I don't like him.

Zubar (one I DO like) scored the first goal and after an hour of play the teams are at 2-2. OM lead twice in this game.

And Marseille takes the lead again : 3-2 (Niang, his second of the game).

RIBERY PLAYS.
He's no longer CL eligible...

Hehe, bit my tongue, Zubar is sent off as well... :blush:

So I was right, Diouf is too dumb to sell Ribery now. Are we sure the Intertoto counts as CL eligibility though?

And 3-3!

RIBERY PLAYS.
He's no longer CL eligible...

Really?

RIBERY PLAYS.
He's no longer CL eligible...

Seems to be confirmed - apparently he pledged his immediate future to Marseille after the game. Huh, what a storm in a tea cup.

Oh well, if we're going to profit from Reyes and Cole we have more pressing neads.
Wenger pretty much denied he wanted to move for Ribery also.

It wasn't Intertoto but UEFA action. So it counts for the CL eligibility. He can't play in CL before the 2nd round.
It seems he will stay... Ribéry is stupid, his agent is a vampire and Diouf is stupid. Well, staying isn't the problem or not selling him either... but this whole mess is really stupid.

It wasn't Intertoto but UEFA action. So it counts for the CL eligibility. He can't play in CL before the 2nd round.
It seems he will stay... Ribéry is stupid, his agent is a vampire and Diouf is stupid. Well, staying isn't the problem or not selling him either... but this whole mess is really stupid.
Oops, that's true, it was UEFA. Why did I think it was Intertoto? Did they qualify already? I thought intertoto was longer than this.

They changed the rules this season, Marseille and Auxerre (and big teams) had only 1 round of Intertoto before being in the preliminary round of UEFA.

Great, another dumb rule to protect the big teams. :shakehead

Nice victory by Dynamo Kyiv, now we can see that this is truly a different team from years past.

I am happy that AC Milan are in, we don't get to see garbage like Crvena Zvezda in the CL

Anyway, Dinamo Zagreb are very good at home where they will pack the place and sing, cheer and go nuts for the whole 90 minutes. They have a good mix of young players from the Croatia U21s and some experienced players like Jens Nowotny, Davor Vugrinec and Zoran Mamic all who played in top leagues a few years ago.

In my opinion, Arsenal should advance but it will not be easy for them

You wanna elaborate on that first part by chance? Typical...

Arsenal up 3-0 against Dinamo Zagreb. Fabregas has 2 goals and RvP has one as well. If Zagreb could score, I would be spot on with my XT prediction (I also predicted RvP as a scorer :D ).

Kinda reverses that "garbage" post doesn't it?

Kinda reverses that "garbage" post doesn't it?

In fairness to Zagreb, the Arsenal squad had some untested guys in it, but they stepped up and did a great job.

It's really amazing how a team can completely forget how to defend against corners in a matter of months. Hamburg was superb in this last season, now they are godawful. A roster this tall shouldn't have a problem with high balls.

Hopefully Kompany's injury won't keep him out for too long, Hamburg can't afford to lose another defenseman now that Boulahrouz is gone and Demel is supended for four games.


One big fat SIGH of relief. Not as thrilling as last years first round UEFA-Cup match against Kopenhagen, but not all that far away, either. Benjamin with a great game and a somewhat lucky assist on yet another important de Jong goal.

another important de Jong goal.

Seems like he integrated well.. De Jong didn't score often for Ajax (well he did considering his position) but when he did it were always very important goals.

How has he been doing besides scoring an occasional clutch goal?

Anyway, Ajax will try to finish off FC Kopenhagen in about an hour. Place your Huntelaar bets here!

Ajax unable to score in the first half so far. They're playing pretty good though. Game is on Eurosport as well for those who want to follow..

Ajax unable to score in the first half so far. They're playing pretty good though. Game is on Eurosport as well for those who want to follow..

Oops it's looking bad for Ajax.. at home!:help:

Wow, Ajax lost that bigtime. A bit surprising. overall a very interesting game. They lost a step in the second half. If they would have scored in the first (which would have been possible, they were dominating) that game would have been over. Good game though of both teams with a lucky winner.

Ajax unable to score in the first half so far. They're playing pretty good though. Game is on Eurosport as well for those who want to follow..

Wow. The wheels really came off. I think getting off Maduro (good idea) for Vertonghen (dunno) and then putting Gabri in his position (NOOOO) messed things up for good. They sorely missed him on offense and suddenly everyone was screwing up. Vermaelen unlucky, and Emanuelson with mistakes on both goals. Sneijder invisible in the second half. Shocking result :eek:

Looking back over both games, I think Kopenhagen actually deserved this more than Ajax. It's at least equal over both games.


This is a big hit to dutch soccer though, we needed CL points for our places. :shakehead Dammit. Well.. I guess PSV will have to compensate and just win the damn thing. :sarcasm:

Where's Huntelaar's goal? ;)

Where's Huntelaar's goal? ;)

Vermaelen stole it :sarcasm:

Ajax unable to score in the first half so far. They're playing pretty good though. Game is on Eurosport as well for those who want to follow..


Too bad they are out,I wanted to see a bit more of Staam.Anyways good luck in the domestic season and Forza Milan

Wow, Ajax lost that bigtime.

I was SO hoping for a 1-0 FCK win. Them advancing... they'll make a LOT of money off this qualification.

Bugger.

I was SO hoping for a 1-0 FCK win. Them advancing... they'll make a LOT of money off this qualification.

Bugger.

So you were cheering for Ajax? Brøndby fan? But see it that way. It is good for the Danish league that FCK advances. Competitiveness pays off for the league in the long run.
Internationally, I always cheer for Munich although in the league I cheer for every team that plays against them.

So you were cheering for Ajax? Brøndby fan? But see it that way. It is good for the Danish league that FCK advances. Competitiveness pays off for the league in the long run.
Internationally, I always cheer for Munich although in the league I cheer for every team that plays against them.

I can understand his point. If Copenhagen earns CL money too often, they'll kill the competitiveness of the league, like Rosenborg in Norway a couple years ago, or Lyon in France at the moment...

And what's the point in having a better European ranking if you still has no chance to become champions or catch a European ticket ?

By the way, big disappointment for Ajax. They're not back on track yet...

Taking bets on the method of Ott=Snott's suicide...

Taking bets on the method of Ott=Snott's suicide...

He's going the Cleopatra route.

Hey, I'm just trying to stay with the snakes theme we've got going.

A great day for the Eastern European teams- Dynamo, Shakhtar, Spartak, CSKA, Levski, and Steaua all advance to the big show.

A great day for the Eastern European teams- Dynamo, Shakhtar, Spartak, CSKA, Levski, and Steaua all advance to the big show.

I'm looking forward to what CSKA can do in the CL. I think they are a darkhorse in the competition.

They've been clearly rising the last 3-4 years, after a severe decline 10 years ago.
That's good news to football fans.

They've been clearly rising the last 3-4 years, after a severe decline 10 years ago.
That's good news to football fans.

It has a lot to do with the influx of cash, and also the talented trio of Brazilians. Vagner Love should be playing on a major European team IMO.

I can understand his point. If Copenhagen earns CL money too often, they'll kill the competitiveness of the league, like Rosenborg in Norway a couple years ago, or Lyon in France at the moment...

And what's the point in having a better European ranking if you still has no chance to become champions or catch a European ticket ?

By the way, big disappointment for Ajax. They're not back on track yet...
A better ranking allows you to earn a second spot and thus getting even more money. I think that if a team is competitive, TV contracts are getting better and you can keep more of the talent in the league. Of course it takes a time but that is basically the only way (apart from the Chelsea route) to get a shot at titles. And Rosenborgs time are over. After a time when they were basically the only team in Norway that could win. So participating doesn`t give you the edge over the other teams automatically although it makes it easier I have to admit.

I'm looking forward to what CSKA can do in the CL. I think they are a darkhorse in the competition.Finally Daniel Carvalho on the big stage! :jump:

I'm so ff'ing pissed right now.. Ajax is clearly lacking form, and are notorious slow starters, so them playing a bad second half wasn't very surprising. It just pisses me off as this Ajax squad in midseason form could really do damage in the CL. What pisses me off even more is the fact that there will be a lot of players leaving next year (possible Huntelaar, Sneijder, etc.)..

I'm so ff'ing pissed right now.. Ajax is clearly lacking form, and are notorious slow starters, so them playing a bad second half wasn't very surprising. It just pisses me off as this Ajax squad in midseason form could really do damage in the CL. What pisses me off even more is the fact that there will be a lot of players leaving next year (possible Huntelaar, Sneijder, etc.)..

Still alive?:confused:

It has a lot to do with the influx of cash, and also the talented trio of Brazilians. Vagner Love should be playing on a major European team IMO.

I was talking about "eastern teams", but you posted just before me.

I'm so ff'ing pissed right now.. Ajax is clearly lacking form, and are notorious slow starters, so them playing a bad second half wasn't very surprising. It just pisses me off as this Ajax squad in midseason form could really do damage in the CL. What pisses me off even more is the fact that there will be a lot of players leaving next year (possible Huntelaar, Sneijder, etc.)..

I'm sorry for you, always next year. ;)

I was also looking forward to seeing this Ajax squad in the CL and I am very disappointed to see them go out.

I'm sorry for you, always next year. ;)

Thanks for the sympathies, but next year doesn't count when you support Ajax or any other Dutch club for that matter.

We don't have the financial recourses to maintain a Huntelaar, Sneijder or an Emanuelson much longer. You can even add Heitinga, Vermaelen and Babel.. Add the facts that you have Gabri and Stam, two experienced veterans with only two years left on their contracts and the window of contending with this current squad is closing rapidly. This was a huge chance for Ajax to do something in Europe and they blew it.. Next year will be an entirely different story. That squad won't be nearly as good.

I guess we just have to await the emergences of the '88 and '89 era.

Thanks for the sympathies, but next year doesn't count when you support Ajax or any other Dutch club for that matter.

We don't have the financial recourses to maintain a Huntelaar, Sneijder or an Emanuelson much longer. You can even add Heitinga, Vermaelen and Babel.. Add the facts that you have Gabri and Stam, two experienced veterans with only two years left on their contracts and the window of contending with this current squad is closing rapidly. This was a huge chance for Ajax to do something in Europe and they blew it.. Next year will be an entirely different story. That squad won't be nearly as good.

I guess we just have to await the emergences of the '88 and '89 era.

I think that you guys could still be decent next year although I wouldn't have too much up for the year after that. I just usually tell myself the next year line to try to stay optimistic, usually with the Flyers though.

I think that you guys could still be decent next year although I wouldn't have too much up for the year after that. I just usually tell myself the next year line to try to stay optimistic, usually with the Flyers though.

Heh, I hear you..

Still though, Ajax always manages to contend due to its youth system but this year seemed just perfect, having a potential superstar walking at nearly every position. Next year will be utter crap if Huntelaar and Sneijder leave, we don't have an immediate standin for either one. After that year however, we'll see some of the clubs brightest talents if everything works out well (Anita, Sarpong, Goossens) and might concentrate on yet another era.

Thanks for the sympathies, but next year doesn't count when you support Ajax or any other Dutch club for that matter.

We don't have the financial recourses to maintain a Huntelaar, Sneijder or an Emanuelson much longer. You can even add Heitinga, Vermaelen and Babel.. Add the facts that you have Gabri and Stam, two experienced veterans with only two years left on their contracts and the window of contending with this current squad is closing rapidly. This was a huge chance for Ajax to do something in Europe and they blew it.. Next year will be an entirely different story. That squad won't be nearly as good.

I guess we just have to await the emergences of the '88 and '89 era.


I wouldn`t worry about that. Ajax always manages to produce a gem or two from within. It is almost a law.
Actually, they must be a really rich club when you look at all the talent that they had at one point. Don`t you think that it is possible to retain a few high calibre players?

Heh, I hear you..

Still though, Ajax always manages to contend due to its youth system but this year seemed just perfect, having a potential superstar walking at nearly every position. Next year will be utter crap if Huntelaar and Sneijder leave, we don't have an immediate standin for either one. After that year however, we'll see some of the clubs brightest talents if everything works out well (Anita, Sarpong, Goossens) and might concentrate on yet another era.

Yea I know what you mean, they were one of my darkhorses to go deep in the competition. Perhaps the bright-side is that you can concentrate more on domestic action this year.

Arsenal's CL run was fantastic last year, but I think we got knocked out in the 3rd round of the FA Cup and almost got knocked out of the top-4 as well.

I wouldn`t worry about that. Ajax always manages to produce a gem or two from within. It is almost a law.
Actually, they must be a really rich club when you look at all the talent that they had at one point. Don`t you think that it is possible to retain a few high calibre players?

They could.. Financially Ajax isn't even in that bad a shape. They have the highest budget out of any Eredivisie club (by far) and are never in debt. But you just can't maintain a player when a Chelsea, Madrid or Milan come knocking on his door.

If the rest of the league would keep up financially and form a competitive group altogether, the Eredivisie would be more enticing and thus lowering the urge of emerging talents to look for money, exposure and fame elsewhere.

This may sound biased, but Ajax is pretty much the only 'top' team in the world who plays the game fair, in that they are build from within and attract players on fair accounts. It's just that they are a victim of the big teams, perhaps moreso than any other club.

Just look at the core of our 2002/2003 squad, which went into the CL QF's: van der Vaart, Pienaar, de Jong, Trabelsi, Maxwell, Ibrahimovic, Galasek, Chivu.. How much is left of that? Yet Ajax manages to build strong teams time after time due to its own educational systems, but it's getting them nowhere.

They could.. Financially Ajax isn't even in that bad a shape. They have the highest budget out of any Eredivisie club (by far) and are never in debt. But you just can't maintain a player when a Chelsea, Madrid or Milan come knocking on his door.

If the rest of the league would keep up financially and form a competitive group altogether, the Eredivisie would be more enticing and thus lowering the urge of emerging talents to look for money, exposure and fame elsewhere.

This may sound biased, but Ajax is pretty much the only 'top' team in the world who plays the game fair, in that they are build from within and attract players on fair accounts. It's just that they are a victim of the big teams, perhaps moreso than any other club.

Just look at the core of our 2002/2003 squad, which went into the CL QF's: van der Vaart, Pienaar, de Jong, Trabelsi, Maxwell, Ibrahimovic, Galasek, Chivu.. How much is left of that? Yet Ajax manages to build strong teams time after time due to its own educational systems, but it's getting them nowhere.
You are right. Probably I underestimate the urge to play in one of those top financial teams. I just thought if they could keep up at least bit with the prices that the big clubs pay that they would be able to maintain their core. For instance van der Vaart, as far as I know, Hamburg got him for a batgain price. I think that Ajax would have been able to match that offer. Hamburg is in debt and they are far from a lock to play in the CL every year. Pienaar the same thing. Playing in Dortmund now which had a bad financial crisis not too ong ago and is playing for a spot in the UEFA cup. OK, Ibrahimovic is a different issue...
Anyways, I like how Ajax builds a competitive team year by year. Yet I agree that it must be kind of frustrating to watch all those guys leave every year.

Can anyone tell me why Lille, Porto and Eindhoven couldn't go to group A even though no team from their country had been chosen at that point?

Yikes....Werder vs. Chelsea and Barca.

Group A is definately the hardest group.

England's best team vs Spain's best team vs Germany's best team at the moment.

Oh my.

i think uefa is following the NHL's lead and trying to arrange more 'rivalry' games ;)

Well that was a pretty ****** draw. I wanted Chelsea so that we wouldn't have to go through the drama of facing them in the knockout stages. But Bremen? That sucks. And I wanted to avoid a lot of travel, yet we have to go to Sofia now. Not the draw I wanted, but we'll be fine. We've got a lot of depth and our second string XI is pretty damn impressive.

Does somebody want to explain to me how Milan get that draw? :shakehead Maybe other clubs should look into trying to cheat and they'll all the breaks Milan gets.

You've got to be kidding me, group A is absolutely amazing while group D is quite the opposite...

Group A
FC Barcelona
FC Chelsea
Werder Bremen
Levski Sofia

Group B
Inter Mailand
FC Bayern
Sporting Lissabon
Spartak Moskau

Group C
FC Liverpool
PSV Eindhoven
Gir. Bordeaux
Galatasaray

Group D
FC Valencia
AS Rom
Olympiakos Piräus
Schachtjor Donezk

Group E
Real Madrid
Olympique Lyon
Steaua Bukarest
Dynamo Kiew

Group F
Man. United
Celtic Glasgow
Benfica Lissabon
FC Kopenhagen

Group G
FC Arsenal
FC Porto
ZSKA Moskau
Hamburger SV

Group H
AC Mailand
OSC Lille
AEK Athen
RSC Anderlecht

Woooo!

Mon the Hoops!

if anyone has followed Lille this season, they know Milan is hardly a lock to go through.

Poor Werder Bremen. I sure hope they can make it but it looks like Uefa Cup for them. Booooh.

You've got to be kidding me, group A is absolutely amazing while group D is quite the opposite...

if anyone has followed Lille this season, they know Milan is hardly a lock to go through.

puh-leeease. the cheaters were given a bye.

Jose Mourinho was quite vocal in his disdain for the way the seedings for the draw are done.

FIVE YEARS of results are taken into account.

I like the idea of incorporating a sense of RECENT history but 5 years is ridiculous.

2-3 years, max.

:shakehead

I'm sure you predicted Liverpool and Porto as CL winners two years and three years ago?

Pretty good draw for the Arsenal, as long as they keep focus, they'll be fine.

Pretty good draw for the Arsenal, as long as they keep focus, they'll be fine.

Good draw for Porto as well, we could do really well if we surprise Arsenal

Group E is also ridiculously tough.

Tough draw for Dynamo, we'll have to upset one of the giants in Real Madrid or Lyon.. Maybe we can go on a run as we did in 1999.

If Valencia doens't make it out of their group somebody needs to be fired

if anyone has followed Lille this season, they know Milan is hardly a lock to go through.

I'm well aware of the side Lille have, but Milan are still going through.

Did anyone actually watch the draw? Sounded fixed based on what I heard. Something about how teams like PSV were somehow not allowed to face Barça despite the rules saying otherwise. Then of course we get Chelsea. Also, Man Utd got an easy group as well.

It's awards time! Barça already have picked up some silverware in Monaco:


UEFA Club Footballer of the Year:

Ronaldinho


UEFA Club Best Forward of the Year:

Samuel Eto'o - Note he won this award despite the fact that he isn't in the top 25 strikers in the World according to HF Boards.



UEFA Club Best Midfielder of the Year:

Deco



UEFA Club Best Defender of the Year:

Carles Puyol


Also, managers of the 16 teams to make the knockout stages had a say in the voting.

Did anyone actually watch the draw? Sounded fixed based on what I heard. Something about how teams like PSV were somehow not allowed to face Barça despite the rules saying otherwise. Then of course we get Chelsea. Also, Man Utd got an easy group as well.

You think we wanted you guys too? Please

The good thing is that IF we make it through (Giant frakking if, Bremen is damn good and Levski is going to be fired up), we won't meet in the 1st round.

(Giant frakking if, Bremen is damn good and Levski is going to be fired up)Relax man.. Werder sucks defensively.. i would be surprised to see them allow less than 10 goals in the four games against Chelsea and Barca.

Relax man.. Werder sucks defensively.. i would be surprised to see them allow less than 10 goals in the four games against Chelsea and Barca.

True, but they sure can score.

True, but they sure can score.Definitely, it's just that i fear/expect their defensive flaws to be exposed against those two teams more than their offensive strengths.

Werder sucks defensively.. i would be surprised to see them allow less than 10 goals in the four games against Chelsea and Barca.

Man, you're the king of overreacting! :D

Man, you're the king of overreacting! :DUH???????????????????????

Definitely, it's just that i fear/expect their defensive flaws to be exposed against those two teams more than their offensive strengths.

Those games against Chelsea and Barcelona are MUST SEE games. Werders offence is a little more dangerous with Diego instead of Micoud. The defence isn't the best (no team in the Top8 in the BL has more GA) and I think that Per Mertesacker won't be able to vastly improve it.

UH???????????????????????

From the Liga thread :
:biglaugh:
dude, you are a master of overreacting!

;)

From the Liga thread :
;)ehm, yes, but when i overreacted? if that's what this was supposed to mean :confused:

Oh come on, your "Werder's defense SUCKS" is quite an overreaction. ;)
Same with at least 10 goals in 4 games, etc...

Never mind, you don't seem to think it's an overreaction, that I guess the joke didn't get through.

Definitely, it's just that i fear/expect their defensive flaws to be exposed against those two teams more than their offensive strengths.

I am afraid you are right. Still I hope for Werder.

Those games against Chelsea and Barcelona are MUST SEE games. Werders offence is a little more dangerous with Diego instead of Micoud. The defence isn't the best (no team in the Top8 in the BL has more GA) and I think that Per Mertesacker won't be able to vastly improve it.

Mertesacker should be able to keep the center safe I hope. Perhaps the experiment a bit with Frings drawn back. What gives me headaches are the defending wings.

UEFA's cup draw is here
http://www.uefa.com/competitions/UEFACup/news/Kind=1/newsId=448986.html

Oh come on, your "Werder's defense SUCKS" is quite an overreaction. ;)Mmh.. you may think my opinion is a stretch.. what i miss is to what i was reacting
(little circumstantiation: werder sucks defensively, more than werder's defense sucks, if you get what i mean)
Same with at least 10 goals in 4 games, etc...Again, i can see this (my opinion) been called overstatement, couldn't get the reacting thing..

Never mind, you don't seem to think it's an overreaction, that I guess the joke didn't get through.eh eh, i don't even think it's an overstatement.. no problem ;)

What are the expected starting lineups for tonight's game? :jump:

What are the expected starting lineups for tonight's game? :jump:

Bremen:
Wiese - C. Fritz, Pasanen, Naldo, Womé - Baumann - Frings, Borowski - Diego - Klose, Klasnic

Schalke 04:
Neuer - Rafinha, Rodriguez, Bordon, Kobiashvili - F. Ernst, Bajramovic - Lincoln - Halil Altintop, Kuranyi, Lövenkrands

Bremen:
Wiese - C. Fritz, Pasanen, Naldo, Womé - Baumann - Frings, Borowski - Diego - Klose, Klasnic


I've heard that Frings and Borowski will both miss the game.

I've heard that Frings and Borowski will both miss the game.

AFAIK Baumann, Jensen and Naldo were questionable. I guess we'll have to wait and see.:dunno:

Bremen:
Wiese - C. Fritz, Pasanen, Naldo, Womé - Baumann - Frings, Borowski - Diego - Klose, Klasnic

Schalke 04:
Neuer - Rafinha, Rodriguez, Bordon, Kobiashvili - F. Ernst, Bajramovic - Lincoln - Halil Altintop, Kuranyi, Lövenkrands:snide: interesting, but this is the 'European competition' thread and i meant the lineups of Barca and Sevilla. :)

Barça did quite well against Werder last season and I think Helice is right. Werder have a good side, but I'd be pretty shocked if we didn't got through with the Chavs.

The good thing is that IF we make it through (Giant frakking if, Bremen is damn good and Levski is going to be fired up), we won't meet in the 1st round.

Agreed as I stated earlier, except I don't think it's a "Giant frakking if". At least our clubs can let their mutual love for another gush forth! You wouldn't believe all the lovely PM's the Rage sent me last season.

what can you say about Auxerre? I know they are struggling in the league but still Dinamo Zagreb feel the match is 50/50

what can you say about Auxerre? I know they are struggling in the league but still Dinamo Zagreb feel the match is 50/50

I'll also say 50/50.
Auxerre is a Jekyll and Hyde team. Always talented in counter attacks but not so fast, solid defensively but can make stupid mistakes at times... Good keeper, very good DM in Benoit Cheyrou. Kahlenberg and Akale are nice wingers. Pieroni recently scored a hat trick in UEFA cup, so I guess he's starting his season.
Experienced team, but can be either very good (UEFA cups) or very bad (vs Marseille).

thanks for the info, there is some talk though that the OFK match was fixed, don't know though. Weird betting numbers...

Dinamo did I think very well against Arsenal and Dinamo actually beat Auxerre in preseason but UEFA Cup and preseason are two total different things. Auxerre beat Dinamo in 1990, both teams winning thei home matches but Auxerre 3:1 at their stadium and Dinamo only 1:0 in Maksimir.

Agreed as I stated earlier, except I don't think it's a "Giant frakking if". At least our clubs can let their mutual love for another gush forth! You wouldn't believe all the lovely PM's the Rage sent me last season.

That's gotta be the creepiest thign I've heard... I don't know, EVER?

GREAT NEWS for those of us in the States!

ESPN 2 will have CL matches both Tues and Wed this week at the usual time 2:30pm EST. That already is one more match per week than last season. But wait, it gets better. Later in the afternoon each of those days, about 5pm EST, ESPN Classic will also be airing a tape-delayed CL match from that matchday. This is great news. Here are the matches:

Tues:

ESPN 2: Liverpool v PSV
Classic: Barça v Levski Sofia

Wed:

ESPN 2: Celtic v Man Utd
Classic: Lyon v Real Scum

GREAT NEWS for those of us in the States!

ESPN 2 will have CL matches both Tues and Wed this week at the usual time 2:30pm EST. That already is one more match per week than last season. But wait, it gets better. Later in the afternoon each of those days, about 5pm EST, ESPN Classic will also be airing a tape-delayed CL match from that matchday. This is great news. Here are the matches:

Tues:

ESPN 2: Liverpool v PSV
Classic: Barça v Levski Sofia

Wed:

ESPN 2: Celtic v Man Utd
Classic: Lyon v Real Scum

Of course I have classes on both days. :banghead: :banghead:

Of course I have classes on both days. :banghead: :banghead:

Tivo/DVR is your friend.

Tivo/DVR is your friend.

Can't afford them. :eek:

PSV - Liverpool is bound to be a good one, too. Though PSV will play without its best player (Cocu) and possible Alex and Kluivert as well. Nice to see Kuijt making his CL debute in Holland though.. I'm sure he'll be pumped up.

I'm predicting a low scoring game..

GREAT NEWS for those of us in the States!

ESPN 2 will have CL matches both Tues and Wed this week at the usual time 2:30pm EST. That already is one more match per week than last season. But wait, it gets better. Later in the afternoon each of those days, about 5pm EST, ESPN Classic will also be airing a tape-delayed CL match from that matchday. This is great news. Here are the matches:

Tues:

ESPN 2: Liverpool v PSV
Classic: Barça v Levski Sofia

Wed:

ESPN 2: Celtic v Man Utd

i predict i will be without a wife by the end of this season :dunce:

Can't afford them. :eek:

I don't have them either. What about a VCR though? You could probably buy one for real cheap.

it only costs me an extra $10 per month to rent my DVR. worth every penny.

The TV came with my dorm room, so I'm not really sure what I'm allowed to buy and what I'm not allowed to buy, I might look in to getting a VCR though, imagine missing the final. :eek:

ESPN Classic doesn't work for me anymore, its blocked out and I'm not really interested in those matchups

Kind of funny, Switzerland gets Chelsea-Bremen and Hamburg-Arsenal the next two days, while Germany only gets Bayern-Moscow in free-tv.

It's not surprising, since the pay-tv channel who owns the rights decides which of the three german games will be shown in German free-tv, and they would be stupid to give the best games away, but it's kind of sad for those who want to watch the games.

anyone tell me anything about Bremen's fans? I've experienced Anderlecht and PSG's in CL games at Chelsea and they were loud and generally great, I wanna know what to expect from Bremen tonight.

anyone tell me anything about Bremen's fans? I've experienced Anderlecht and PSG's in CL games at Chelsea and they were loud and generally great, I wanna know what to expect from Bremen tonight.

I heard chelsea were having a pretty horrible time trying to sell tickets for the game, true?

Liverpool looks like drek today

Liverpool looks like drek today

Not really, we're controlling the game and not giving anything away while creating a bunch of half chances. If Gonzalez comes on for Aurelio we'll win this thing without even getting tired.

PSV's playing way too slow, much too easy for us just to stand there and defend.

benitez is the second coming of the tinker-man......

this rotation thing is retarded, quite frankly.

Why, we don't need to put Gerrard, Xabi and co out there against PSV, we'll need them on sunday

That's weird... I don't any excitement whatsoever with the start of this year's CL group stage. It's just not the same for me without Juve.

anyone tell me anything about Bremen's fans? I've experienced Anderlecht and PSG's in CL games at Chelsea and they were loud and generally great, I wanna know what to expect from Bremen tonight.

Bundesliga average, i´d say (no offense).

Should Inter really be losing to Lisbon?

I don't know, I'm really asking... and Vieira got red-carded? For what?

PSV and Liverpool draw

Neither team really deserved a victory and neither defense was really troubled. Gerrard had a great shot go off the post but that would have been too much.

Momo and Pennant were poor. Aurelio showing why he's not a good singing. Defensively we were much better then this week-end, most chances came from fluffed passes or half mistakes by Momo.

And I think Pepe Reina underwent a lobotomy in the off season, his decision making out there is simply horrendous, that's 4 games I see and four straight games filled with strange decisions. What happened to the 33 clean sheat guy from last year?

Bundesliga average, i´d say (no offense).

they were actually quite good, although the chelsea fans were crap, because as was said above, we struggled to shift tickets, 10k under capacity :(

No offense to Liverpool or PSV, but that's one of the worst games I've seen recently and it was a Champions League match. Neither team looked like they wanted to compete, I want that hour and a half of my life back.

And I think Pepe Reina underwent a lobotomy in the off season, his decision making out there is simply horrendous, that's 4 games I see and four straight games filled with strange decisions. What happened to the 33 clean sheat guy from last year?

And that shows you how meaningless this stat is, since he walks away with another one tonight.

No offense to Liverpool or PSV, but that's one of the worst games I've seen recently and it was a Champions League match. Neither team looked like they wanted to compete, I want that hour and a half of my life back.
Hum. You didn't watch Galatasaray-Bordeaux... I think I managed to see 1 shot on net the whole game, but it's wasn't even a powerful one...
Boring, good defensive plays by both teams but absolutely no offensive power. :shakehead

What? No love for the Barça? :D

Ouch, what a thumping. They completely outclassed Levski Sofia. Everybody looked on form and the five goals came from five different players. IMO Iniesta and Eto'o were the best players over the course of the match. Everybody worked really hard throughout though, even until the last minute. I was just laughing when Ronnie scored that beauty at the end.

What? No love for the Barça? :D

Ouch, what a thumping. They completely outclassed Levski Sofia. Everybody looked on form and the five goals came from five different players. IMO Iniesta and Eto'o were the best players over the course of the match. Everybody worked really hard throughout though, even until the last minute. I was just laughing when Ronnie scored that beauty at the end.

I didn't see the game, and missed the highlights... was too tired and went to bed after the Bordeaux (boring 0-0) game! :help:

PSV and Liverpool draw

Neither team really deserved a victory and neither defense was really troubled. Gerrard had a great shot go off the post but that would have been too much.

Momo and Pennant were poor. Aurelio showing why he's not a good singing. Defensively we were much better then this week-end, most chances came from fluffed passes or half mistakes by Momo.

And I think Pepe Reina underwent a lobotomy in the off season, his decision making out there is simply horrendous, that's 4 games I see and four straight games filled with strange decisions. What happened to the 33 clean sheat guy from last year?If you need more goals, you should maybe get Morientes back :D

And that shows you how meaningless this stat is, since he walks away with another one tonight.

And a whiplash. O_o ouch.:sarcasm:

No offense to Liverpool or PSV, but that's one of the worst games I've seen recently and it was a Champions League match. Neither team looked like they wanted to compete, I want that hour and a half of my life back.

Both teams should be able to do much better. Both teams were careful, and rightfully so looking at the failed passes and boneheaded dribbles that created most of the semi-chances.

I'm glad we took the first one from Bremen. If Ricardo Carvalho can stop sucking my Yellow testicles and Jose lets Ballack take penalties from now on, we should take both games from Levski with good score margins, and at the very least tie Bremen the next game. This SHOULD get us through the group stages.

I didn't watch the Barca/Levski game, but you know they'll be pissed, and they'll be a lot better against their next opponent. They may play spoiler to Barca/Chelsea/Bremen

Can he just shout his mouth, seriously? (http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story?id=379309&cc=5901)

The article even points out his factual innacuracy. Good god you wonder why people dislike this club because when they're not in the news for shady backroom transfer dealings, their manager is saying **** like this that is as retarded as it comes.

You know he's not stupid enough to actually BELIEVE this garbage. He's saying it to deflect attention off his players.

Just mind games.

Yeah, PSV - Liverpool was a rather dull game. It's always hard playing attacking football vs either one and they clearly cancelled eachother out last night. Just a very, very equally game with no standouts, even Kuijt couldn't get anything going.

I did like Pennant contrary to Belgian Fan. I was also pleasantly surprised with Mendez, even though he had some poor moments. Timmy Simons is a huge but silent force, btw. One of the better and smartest DM's walking around right now..

The rest looked all off. Koné and Farfán too. Still a shame Kluivert couldn't make his debute.

Wow! Is this game as entertaining as it looks? Celtic and Man U tied up at halftime - 2-2. Saha with 2.

Wow! Is this game as entertaining as it looks? Celtic and Man U tied up at halftime - 2-2. Saha with 2.

It's a very entertaining game. ManU look dangerous every time they're on the ball, even though Rooney hasn't been very engaged and Giggs went off injured.

Awesome free kick by Nakamura for the second Celtic goal.

Awesome game by Lyon, again... 2-0, goals by Fred and Tiago.
Without Casillas, it's 10-0 at half time. And I'm not kidding. He saved 3 free kicks by Juninho, 2 headers by Malouda and Fred, one rush by Réveillère... Madrid was absolutely outskilled.
Juninho finished with 6 shots on net, Tiago with 5, Fred 4... At one point Lyon had 17 shots and only 4 wide.
Brillant...

Lyon played well, but Madrid was just putrid.
Casillas was Man of the Match EASILY.
He was simply breath-taking.
I counted 4 shots on goal that an average goalie would have let go in the first half WITHOUT counting the two goals. Which means 6-0.

Cannavar was by far the worst player on the pitch. I can't even believe we all agree (myself included) he's a top 3 CB when he's capable of delivering a game that should set the standard for bad play in 6th division.
Incredible. Everytime he tried to tackle, he made a foul. He also was repsonsible for the bad offside play on Tiago's goal, and he was also capable of completely missing the ball on a clearance, resulting in Fred's header a few inches wide. PUTRID.

I didn't see much of the Anderlecht-Lille game, but I sure hope Keita doubters took some notes. Just WOW!

Oh and I also saw that Gourcuff started AND scored in his CL debut with Milan.

Helice, I NEED a report on how he played. :D

I didn't see much of the Anderlecht-Lille game, but I sure hope Keita doubters took some notes. Just WOW!

Just got back from Anderlecht.

To sum the game up: Anderlecht > Lille, but Puel >>> Vercauteren.

The first half was a very close affair, Lille created some chances on the counter, Anderlecht had a tough time breaking trough Makoun and Cabaye. Odemwingie's movement was great and Keita caused havoc at times. Still Anderlecht held Lille back without too much effort and without giving away anything but counter chances after bad passes. From the 30th minute on Anderlecht took over and created the first big chance with first Tchité (who's pace really troubled Rafael the first half) and then Boussoufa forcing good saves from Sylva. Then Pareja headed hom on a corner, I think at that point the 1-0 was more or less deserved.

The second half Lille started having a lot more of the ball. Anderlecht however had the better chances, Boussoufa missed a sitter and Tchité was offside on a play he should have been clean trough on. Then Puel changed things around and won a point for his team, throwing on Youla and Fauvergue for Cabaye and Bastos (who was largly ineffective). He went with three deep players - Fauvergue close to the two strikers, Bodmer on the DM with Makoun- and because Anderlecht pulled a midfielder back to help cover the midfield was suddenly wide open for Makoun, Bodmer and especially Keita.

Anderlecht were lost and Lille dominated from then on. First Fauvergue hit the post and Anderlecht was all over the place defensively. Vercauteren reacted by bringing off Biglia (midfielder) for Juhasz, the big defender, to man mark the big guy Fauvergue. That off course gave even more space to the midfielders so the pressure didn't drop, au contraire. Anderlecht had nowhere to go with the ball without Biglia.

Then eventually a sily mistake by Deschacht let a cross pass for Fauvergue to score the easy goal.
Anderlecht had one half chance afterwards but deserved no more then a point because the midfield was completely overrun the second half.

I thought Keita and Odemwingie (man he's lightyears away from the player he was) stood out for Lille. Hassan had a great game for Anderlecht, as did Pareja. Goor, Tchité and Deschacht were very good in the first half as well.

Was the penalty ManU got as bad as it looked from watching on a video screen which was 100 meters away?

From what I saw, the goalie clearly played the ball and ended up crashing into the forward afterwards. Didn't see any reason why the goalie would get punished for that.


The same is almost true for the penalty Arsenal got against Hamburg. While I won't comment on whether it really was a penalty or not, because I haven't seen any close up replays of it, it certainly was not a red card for the keeper.
It's a shame, because Arsenal looked beatable tonight. If it weren't for 80 minutes of one man down, Hamburg might have been able to get a tie or with a bit of luck even a win.

Wow! Is this game as entertaining as it looks? Celtic and Man U tied up at halftime - 2-2. Saha with 2.

Giggs went down a little easily, but I thouhgt it was pretty exciting, Celtic were even able to get some good rushes in to tie the game late which was good to see.

But what the hell was Graveson thinking? Is he trying to show Man U how good a playmaker they would have gotten if they had signed him instead?

I'm not happy witht eh result, but I'm not dissapointed either, Celtic have shown that they can at least compete at this level, I think they can beat out Benfica for 2nd in the group.

To sum the game up: Anderlecht > Lille, but Puel >>> Vercauteren.


I'd say Anderlecht = average Lille
Because Lille was really not at their level (like they've been in Paris and the second half in Nantes). And really, with the way they dominated the second half, I can't see anything but a =.
That said, maybe Anderlecht was average too, I'm not used to seeing them.

And yes I agree with the coaches. That's quite a common occurence with Puel. He's (unfortunately, because I don't like the guy) quite a coach.
And to think Monaco fired him... :biglaugh:

Giggs took a few steps before he went down...it was a definite marginal call. IMO, it's not a penalty.

Rio Ferdinand looked terrible on that Vennegoor goal. Poor defending from him. That Nakamura goal was a cracker.

Giggs took a few steps before he went down...it was a definite marginal call. IMO, it's not a penalty.

Rio Ferdinand looked terrible on that Vennegoor goal. Poor defending from him. That Nakamura goal was a cracker.

Agreed on all accounts.

Celtic's central midfield is really poor. They need a ball mover in there. I was disappointed with McGeady. He seemed afraid to take on defenders. JVoH looked really good though, really dangerous.

Hey, I have an idea! Let's all laugh at Real Madrid.

:biglaugh:

Pwned. Casillas did save them further embarrassment as the grinning Frenchmen have said, but he also bobbled a lot of balls. IMO there were some tough shots to handle, but for me Casillas just looked like he lacked confidence. Anyway, he's still their saviour. They really don't look impressive at all though and their summer signings were largely quick fixes that'll be outdated in a year or two.

Malouda and Abidal are both just awesome. I think they'd slot into the Arsenal side very easily. Wenger should have taken cash for both Reyes and Cole and then went after one of those two.

I really like Tiago. I think he'd fit really well into Barça's midfield. We definitely don't need him, but I'd much rather him than Motta.

In case I didn't mention it, let's all laugh at Real Madrid!

:biglaugh:

After having seen the replay of Arsenal's "penalty" I have to say that van Persie made a very nice dive ;)
He was already up and flying before Hamburg's keeper go his hand anywhere near him. Even if, for some reason, someone wants to call a penalty for that, it's not possible to give a red card for that. :banghead:

Kind of funny that the linesman decided on goal-kick, yet did nothing when the ref called the penalty, even though he had a much better view of the scene.

That Celtic defense.. Laughable. They seem to play zone defense during some occassions. The way Saha was open at times made me wonder why I never got signed to a pro-deal.

Speaking of Saha, he was pretty decent I thought, though he never should've had more than one goal as that penalty was even more laughable than Celtic's defense. Even Giggs looked surprised. The same Saha was also mildly to blame on the 2-2 free-kick by Nakamura as the ball went right over his head, but instead of heading or blocking it, he ducked. And it wasn't even a hard shot, either.

No real standouts in this game, either. Started our really exciting with continues up and down play and 4 goals in the first 45 minutes but kind of wore out as the game went on. Vennegoor looked decent as well, he's proving to be more than the ultimate pinchitter with his 3rd goal in as many games for the green en whites. He just wins every battle in the air. Van der Sar didn't look as sharp as usual. Might not went all out on the Vennegoor goal and hesitated at times when coming out. Rooney was rather unvisable aside from a moment here and there..

Nice game though!

Pretty incredible stat in yesterday's game : Toulalan, playing DM, made the grand total of... ZERO foul.
And he won pretty much every battle in midfield, especially against Diarra.

Just got back from Anderlecht.

To sum the game up: Anderlecht > Lille, but Puel >>> Vercauteren.

The first half was a very close affair, Lille created some chances on the counter, Anderlecht had a tough time breaking trough Makoun and Cabaye. Odemwingie's movement was great and Keita caused havoc at times. Still Anderlecht held Lille back without too much effort and without giving away anything but counter chances after bad passes. From the 30th minute on Anderlecht took over and created the first big chance with first Tchité (who's pace really troubled Rafael the first half) and then Boussoufa forcing good saves from Sylva. Then Pareja headed hom on a corner, I think at that point the 1-0 was more or less deserved.

The second half Lille started having a lot more of the ball. Anderlecht however had the better chances, Boussoufa missed a sitter and Tchité was offside on a play he should have been clean trough on. Then Puel changed things around and won a point for his team, throwing on Youla and Fauvergue for Cabaye and Bastos (who was largly ineffective). He went with three deep players - Fauvergue close to the two strikers, Bodmer on the DM with Makoun- and because Anderlecht pulled a midfielder back to help cover the midfield was suddenly wide open for Makoun, Bodmer and especially Keita.

Anderlecht were lost and Lille dominated from then on. First Fauvergue hit the post and Anderlecht was all over the place defensively. Vercauteren reacted by bringing off Biglia (midfielder) for Juhasz, the big defender, to man mark the big guy Fauvergue. That off course gave even more space to the midfielders so the pressure didn't drop, au contraire. Anderlecht had nowhere to go with the ball without Biglia.

Then eventually a sily mistake by Deschacht let a cross pass for Fauvergue to score the easy goal.
Anderlecht had one half chance afterwards but deserved no more then a point because the midfield was completely overrun the second half.

I thought Keita and Odemwingie (man he's lightyears away from the player he was) stood out for Lille. Hassan had a great game for Anderlecht, as did Pareja. Goor, Tchité and Deschacht were very good in the first half as well.

Here's what Boussouffa said:

Ik had veel meer verwacht van de grote Champions League. Het niveau was niet zo hoog als ik had verwacht. We waren veel beter dan Lille", aldus Boussoufa, die twee grote kansen onbenut liet. "We speelden in de eerste helft super. We speelden Lille toen van de mat. Toch doet de 1-1 wel pijn op het einde.

Speaking of Boussouffa:

http://users.skynet.be/boussoufa/mbark/boussoufa13jaar.wmv

Oh and I also saw that Gourcuff started AND scored in his CL debut with Milan.

Helice, I NEED a report on how he played. :DGourcuff had a nice game aside from the goal (a assume you already saw that one), he was one of the best players on the pitch.
It was kind of the exposure game for him with Milan since most fans (and most commentators i must add) didn't know him.. he showed again very good personality to go along with his skills and good running.
He was used in the Seedorf's position.

Lyon played well, but Madrid was just putrid.
Casillas was Man of the Match EASILY.You mean it was for Madrid right? Cause most Lyon players did better than him..

He was simply breath-taking.
I counted 4 shots on goal that an average goalie would have let go in the first half WITHOUT counting the two goals. Which means 6-0.I don't know if i'm forgetting some..but i only remember one great save on a header, off a corner kick, it was early in the game (probably while still 0-0). Then a nice save on a second shot, but that came off one of his mistakes (beating back one of Juninho's shots).

Anyway, aside form Cannavaro's mistakes (and yes he had a BAD game with at least 3 big mistakes, but it's not like he really looked like a 6th division player..), the evident truth was that Madrid was killed by Lyon's superior athletical form; it was not even close physically. Emerson still has to regain the form he lost in March/April, ok, but Diarra looked even more embarassed by Lyon's players' aggressivity and quickness.. just like any other Real player to tell the truth..
Lyon played a perfect match and they were outstanding athletically, it's like they hit their top form on September, something surprising.. and maybe not that good for the second part of the season?


Malouda and Abidal are both just awesome.Yesterday Abidal was a freaking MONSTER.
after an hour of play he looked ready to give a try to Michael Johnson's 400mt record...and he was very good aside from his unbelievable athletical show too.

After having seen the replay of Arsenal's "penalty" I have to say that van Persie made a very nice dive ;)
He was already up and flying before Hamburg's keeper go his hand anywhere near him. Even if, for some reason, someone wants to call a penalty for that, it's not possible to give a red card for that. :banghead:

Kind of funny that the linesman decided on goal-kick, yet did nothing when the ref called the penalty, even though he had a much better view of the scene.

I wouldn't quite call it a dive. Having seen RvP a lot, he loves to work his way around the keeper and then put the ball away. However, he went down extremely easily which was disappointing.

I think the penalty was 50/50. I've seen ones like that given, but I've seen plays like that where the penalty wasn't given. It certainly wasn't a red card though, Hamburg were very unlucky.

I don't think Hamburg were pressing Arsenal too much in the first 10 minutes, but Arsenal looked disinterested for most of the game and Hamburg were brave and did very well. Very disappointing from Arsenal though, Cesc was very average by his standards, I want to see more desire in the team.

Yesterday Abidal was a freaking MONSTER.
after an hour of play he looked ready to give a try to Michael Johnson's 400mt record...and he was very good aside from his unbelievable athletical show too.

Yeah, but he's old you know, he's 27 and learning the position. He could just retire now... ;)

PS : BTW, I completely disagree with your assesment on Casillas. And 12 hours after I wrote (and Beli noticed the same thing), I read in L'Equipe that Casillas has the best mark of all players with 7.5 (tied with Fred I think). Toulalan, Juninho, Abidal and Malouda had 7 I think.
Not that it matters anyway, but it seems you missed some portions of the first half, because Casillas put up a real show.

Ajax beat IK start 5-2 in a very sloppy game. Though they didn't look very excited playing an UEFA Cup game.. Huntelaar scored twice, Babel came in as a sub and assisted on 3 while Sneijder (free-kick 20m), Roger (shot) and Rosenberg (shot) completed the score.

Vermaelen got embarassed big time on one play though when Nielsen gave him a backheel panna, walked around him and provided a cross.

Yeah, but he's old you know, he's 27 and learning the position. He could just retire now... ;)

PS : BTW, I completely disagree with your assesment on Casillas. And 12 hours after I wrote (and Beli noticed the same thing), I read in L'Equipe that Casillas has the best mark of all players with 7.5 (tied with Fred I think). Toulalan, Juninho, Abidal and Malouda had 7 I think.
Not that it matters anyway, but it seems you missed some portions of the first half, because Casillas put up a real show.

Casillas doesn't give generally the attention as he should because he isn't this normal stereotype of goalie, ~195cm, etc. Casillas is very calm and personally I see best goalie in the world. He very rarely make misstakes, he is calm, he is flexible. Only problem is sometimes with crosses, otherwise close to perfect goalie.

Personally I see Casillas prolly only reason why Real have been last couple of season even in top-3 in Spain. Behind really poor def he have been allmost sole reason why they have gone trough in CL too.

Yeah, but he's old you know, he's 27 and learning the position. He could just retire now... ;)Mmh.. i guess i missed someone else's previous comments on him..

PS : BTW, I completely disagree with your assesment on Casillas. And 12 hours after I wrote (and Beli noticed the same thing), I read in L'Equipe that Casillas has the best mark of all players with 7.5 (tied with Fred I think). Toulalan, Juninho, Abidal and Malouda had 7 I think.Not surprising, it seems i can't agree with anyone on keepers' value and/or performances..
still, at least les Habs thought he lacked confidence

Casillas doesn't give generally the attention as he should because he isn't this normal stereotype of goalie, ~195cm, etc. Casillas is very calm and personally I see best goalie in the world. He very rarely make mistakes, he is calmI like Casillas and all, but one thing for sure: he was not calm in Lyon and he did at least three mistakes in the last two games.

I like Casillas and all, but one thing for sure: he was not calm in Lyon and he did at least three mistakes in the last two games.

Every keeper make misstakes sometime. Every player does too. It's about how often. Casillas does very rarely big misstakes. Can't think many in last couple of seasons which have costed a goal. Other hand I can think many which have done other keepers, ie. Victor Valdes, Canizares, Reina(just going about spanish keepers). And I could about misstakes, but prolly wouldn't agree about it anyway since I didn't see much against Lyon. He was looking more nervous, but I think it was mostly since Juninho tryed a lot of curving shots which are hard to handle with these new balls.

Anyway, aside form Cannavaro's mistakes (and yes he had a BAD game with at least 3 big mistakes, but it's not like he really looked like a 6th division player..), the evident truth was that Madrid was killed by Lyon's superior athletical form; it was not even close physically. Emerson still has to regain the form he lost in March/April, ok, but Diarra looked even more embarassed by Lyon's players' aggressivity and quickness.. just like any other Real player to tell the truth..
Lyon played a perfect match and they were outstanding athletically, it's like they hit their top form on September, something surprising.. and maybe not that good for the second part of the season?

I agree. I think that this can in part be put down to the fact that Lyon's season started earlier. Not much earlier, but earlier altogether. Still, Madrid looked a good step behind Barça physically who were in the same boat only a few weeks back. Of course Lyon's squad has players like Abidal and Malouda who are clearly better physical specimens than pretty much anybody Madrid has.

Personally I see Casillas prolly only reason why Real have been last couple of season even in top-3 in Spain. Behind really poor def he have been allmost sole reason why they have gone trough in CL too.

Yep, I agree.

Mmh.. i guess i missed someone else's previous comments on him..
Not surprising, it seems i can't agree with anyone on keepers' value and/or performances..
still, at least les Habs thought he lacked confidence

I must have missed those comments as well. He's 27 E? I thought he was younger, not that 27 is old.

Yeah, I mean he was a bit shaky. I think shellshocked is the word I'd use. Still he made some nice saves.

I'm really dissapointed that West Ham lost the first leg in the UEFA Cup to Palermo at home today. The Hammers carried the play and were unlucky not to convert their chances, not to mention that Palermo played like any Italian side playing most of their players behind the ball. Palermo also got lucky as before they scored the ball clear went over the touchline.

But I think WH can still advance when they play in two weeks. They were the much better side.

AND, both Tevez and Mascherano played well. Tevez had some lovely touches, one in the opening minutes of the game that forced the defender to take him down. Mascherano was also a very good defensive presence in front of the back four and passed the ball very well. He's the type of presence West Ham have sorely needed, even though Hayden Mullins played very well last season, his form has dipped so far this season. (and he can't complete a 10 yard pass for his life)

Forza Milan!

Dutch UEFA Cup results from yesterday:


IK Start 2 - 5 Ajax (Huntelaar 2x, Sneijder, Roger, Rosenberg).

MotM: Ryan Babel

Ajax played rather poorly and inconsistent but seemed to get more going the minute Ryan Babel got in. He delivered 3 assists as Ajax cruised to a comfortable away-win vs a hard working, but quality lacking IK Start.


Lokomotiv Sofia 2 - 2 Feyenoord (Lucius, Greene)

MotM: Serginho Greene

Feyenoord is still adjusting to its new players and system and it's still obvious on the pitch. Managed to come back from a 2-0 deficit for a good road result but a very, very sloppy game for Feyenoord here as well. Has to be said that Lokomotiv Sofia is one of the stronger opponents you can face in UEFA Cup.


Partizan Belgrado 4 - 2 FC Groningen (Fleddurus, Suarez)

MotM: Nenad Marinkovic

Partizan is a strong team, with lots of individual talent and a strong collective, it's no surprise they beat a team which is playing European football for the first time in a decade and just lost their 2 best players (Luirink, Buijs). However, they managed to score twice on the road and still have a heartbeat for the return in 2 weeks.


AZ Alkmaar 3 (Koevermans, Molhoek, Arveladze) - 2 Kayserispor

MotM: Stijn Schaars

AZ was the only Dutch team which played at home. They won, but will be dissapointed to have given up two away goals. Pretty up and down and nice game to watch. Will be a challenge to defend the aggregate score in their advantage when they play the return in hectic Turkey.


Vitoria Setubal 0 - 3 Heereveen (Alves 2x, Nilsson)

MotM: Afonso Alves

Afonso Alves, who's been a sensation in the Eredivisie this year, was clearly the difference yesterday. He was constantly involved, scoring two sweet free-kicks, while rocketting a huge one on the crossbar in between. Nilsson completed the score with a simple tip in. They really look strong this year and might be able to reach deep into the UEFA Cup and have top 4 finish in the Eredivisie. 3-0 Is an excellent score to return home with. They're a shoe in..

I thought this was fitting after Wedneday's match...












Calderon: Kaka, Ronaldinho, Messi, Xavi, Cesc, Thuram, Puyol, Henry Eto'o and the full team of Lyon, but what's this Fabio?

Capello: It's the list players I need to win a title this year!

Calderon: *******, for sure with those ones Lopez Caro could win.

Every keeper make misstakes sometime. Every player does too. It's about how often.Obviously i agree.

Casillas does very rarely big misstakes. Can't think many in last couple of seasons which have costed a goal.I think Casillas is a great keeper, but i don't think his forte is making very rare mistakes, at least that's not been the case along the last ..year, let's say.

He was looking more nervous, but I think it was mostly since Juninho tryed a lot of curving shots which are hard to handle with these new balls.That's true, but the rebound he gave after Cannavaro's high ball was a real mistake.. like the one he made on Levante goal few days before.

I'm really dissapointed that West Ham lost the first leg in the UEFA Cup to Palermo at home today. The Hammers carried the play and were unlucky not to convert their chances, not to mention that Palermo played like any Italian side playing most of their players behind the ball. Palermo also got lucky as before they scored the ball clear went over the touchline.

But I think WH can still advance when they play in two weeks. They were the much better side.

AND, both Tevez and Mascherano played well. Tevez had some lovely touches, one in the opening minutes of the game that forced the defender to take him down. Mascherano was also a very good defensive presence in front of the back four and passed the ball very well. He's the type of presence West Ham have sorely needed, even though Hayden Mullins played very well last season, his form has dipped so far this season. (and he can't complete a 10 yard pass for his life)

Personally I think Mascherano played very well but he ended in the wrong team, many of his team mates will never reach his level. The israeli guy (don't remember his name)made some nice plays but when he's in front of the net he's completely lost. Also West Ham's defense play was not very good on the other side Palermo has some really great defenders like Zaccardo and Barzagli who certainly don't make it easy for West Ham's forwards to score.

Oh, and by the way: Do the West Ham players know what Fair Play means? I don't think so.
:shakehead

I think Palermo will also win the game in two weeks when they play at the Barbera in front of their tifosi.

P.S. Heard that outside the West Ham stadium they were selling Palermo shirts who had witten over Mafia, what a stupid joke!

Overall I agree on Casillas.
He was really good, at least decisive. He saved 13 shots on goal, most of them really dangerous. Still, he gave up a lot of rebounds... though most came on Juninho's shots. He was nervous, but I think it was because of the shaky defense and Juninho's shots. He deserved the best mark of the game, even if he wasn't very confident...

Lyon played one of their best game ever. In september. But I really think they're going to play like that later in the season... Their bench is very good and they won't have the 1st round of the League cup to play, one less game.
They were very good last spring, the defeat vs Milan was more mental than physical.

Obviously i agree.

I think Casillas is a great keeper, but i don't think his forte is making very rare mistakes, at least that's not been the case along the last ..year, let's say.

That's true, but the rebound he gave after Cannavaro's high ball was a real mistake.. like the one he made on Levante goal few days before.

Didn't Levante got their goal of cross? Or am I remembering other goal.

Anyway if you have tested these new balls you would see how much harder those are control for keeper than older ones. Maybe Casillas wasn't so good as he have been, but I think it's mostly about whole new def/tactics which are effecting his play as well. And addition those balls with another addition Juninho's shots which are really hard to predict.

Anyway we'll see how Casillas' will develop his game, there is Casilla coming up to challenge him in year or two.

Personally I think Mascherano played very well but he ended in the wrong team, many of his team mates will never reach his level. The israeli guy (don't remember his name)made some nice plays but when he's in front of the net he's completely lost. Also West Ham's defense play was not very good on the other side Palermo has some really great defenders like Zaccardo and Barzagli who certainly don't make it easy for West Ham's forwards to score.

I agree with you to some extent. But this is also the SECOND game they've played together. I think I would give it a bit more time than that.

Oh, and by the way: Do the West Ham players know what Fair Play means? I don't think so.
:shakehead

What instances are you referring to? :dunno:

I agree with you to some extent. But this is also the SECOND game they've played together. I think I would give it a bit more time than that.



What instances are you referring to? :dunno:

yeah, for sure they need some more time but i think that it will be very difficult for mascherano and tevez since as i said before some other west ham players aren't that good. i'm thinking of the guy with the shaved head, he was just aweful to watch. also the whole defense didn't seemed very solid. on the other hand i think that in 2 years ferdinand will be a top defender, he just needs some experience.

two times the palermo players kicked the ball out of the field because one of their team mates was injured and both times the west ham players didn't returned them the ball.

Way to go Doll :shakehead
Hamburg has trouble scoring goals, so he takes out the playmaker and brings in a second defensive midfielder. It wouldn't be as bad, if it was someone who is able to show some offense, but Wicky can only destroy.


Good god, I didn't think you could play even less dangerous, this is pathetic.

Hey, another red card, that makes it 6 in ten games!
Four of them were a joke, but that isn't really important.

Anderlecht started off playing AEK right off the field, Biglia, Frutos and Boussoufa in starring roles. They deservedly took the lead at the 25th minute, Boussoufa and Frutos combining for a delightful goal.

3 minutes later Julio Ceasar controlled an intended shot on goal and managed to sneak it by Zitka. then the misery started again, countless defensive errors followed and Anderlecht completely fell apart.

Hopefully Vercauteren can give the defense some confidence at half time. Pareja especially has been simply awful, like a 15 year old making his debut, his worst performance by far in an Anderlecht shirt.

Footballing wise this match is a piece of cake for RSCA, AEK can't match the skill going forward. However with this defense a 1 goal lead isn't sufficient, as we already knew.

Saha scores for Man U in the 60th minute

Very nice game between Lille and Milan. Lille was very shaky in the first half, but took confidence in the second.
Both teams had their moments and their opportunities. Seedorf was disallowed a goal that was perfectly good. The ref was good on the other decisions.
Bodmer made a great header but Dida came up big.
Overall, I thought Keita and Sylva were the best players on the pitch. Keita completely embarrassed the Milan defence all night long.
He's probably the world's best winger at the moment.

Lyon proved much too strong for Steaua Bucarest and won 3-0 in Bucarest. Fred, Tiago and Benzema scored.
They could have won by much more than 3 goals.

Lyon is going to be even harder to beat this season I'm afraid.

Saha scores for Man U in the 60th minute
Benfica were unlucky not to score before Saha's goal, as they were carrying the play, but once he scored they were done. It's almost like they resigned themselves to losing the game and didn't show any threat to score at all.

And Cristiano Ronaldo was the best player on the pitch, everything United did today went through him as nobody else stood out at all. (and Rooney had one of the most awful games I've ever seen him have) It's funny how even in his home country he get booed! He doesn't seem to mind however, and I think people need to start giving him his due as he really is a wonderful player. He had some dazzling runs today.

Yes, I watched the game too. Lyon's players were very calm on the field and knew their stuff. They managed to score the first goal on a childish mistake by Carlos the portugese gk of steaua. The second goal came after a great corner kick by Juninho and Tiago scored from the near post after the ball passed two steaua players who didn't manage to head the ball away. The 3rd goal was the best IMO. Juninho made a brilliant pass to Benzema who shot the ball to the far post. The match was expected with great interest by the romanian fans here in Bucharest and they were expecting a big result after the win in Kiev 2 weeks ago but it didn't went the way they wanted. OL really looked like a solid team and I think they'll go very far this year in the CL, maybe even win it.

Footballing wise this match is a piece of cake for RSCA, AEK can't match the skill going forward. However with this defense a 1 goal lead isn't sufficient, as we already knew.

How did Hetemaj play?

That goal by Seedorf was a beautie and should never ever have been disallowed.

In the meantime, Madrid continues to have the two best scorers in CL history maintaining their positions:

Top 10..

01) Raúl 53 in 103 games
02) Van Nistelrooy 45 in 56 games :amazed:
03) Shevshenko 42 in 78 games
04) Henry 42 in 80 games
05) Del Piero 37 in 79 games

06) Inzaghi 34
07) Morientes 30
08) Kluivert 29
09) Trezeguet 28
10) Makaay 27

Anyway.. Watched Arsenal-Porto yesterday and it was a pretty interesting, high tempo game. Not old-Ajax like as Henry claimed but I enjoyed the game as a neutral fan. Van Persie was rather average but mostly because he blasted a shot way over the bar from just 4 meters. I don't think he'll ever perform for Arsenal like he does for Oranje considering the difference in system and players around him.

As for tonight; PSV vs Bordeaux. Predicting a 1-0 Bordeaux win considering PSV will miss its two best players (Cocu and Farfán). Kluivert is out as well, as may Afellay.

Awesome.. PSV already without Farfán, Cocu and Kluivert, now Alex appears to have twisted his knee.

Drogba scored his first Chelsea hattrick tonight, awesome.

Awesome.. PSV already without Farfán, Cocu and Kluivert, now Alex appears to have twisted his knee.

Don't worry you got Mika.

Drogba scored his first Chelsea hattrick tonight, awesome.

Watched the match.

It's funny because his best effort hit the cross-bar and didn't go in, while one of his goals was a literal gift at the side of the net and the other two involved a fair amount of luck.

However, his turn on the second goal was pure quality.

Not too much to say about the players involved, though I will say that Ferreira played fairly well, Bridge was more mortal in this match but still fairly good, and Essien is providing two-way support in a manner that will probably make the aging Makalele expendable. Shevchenko still can't score, but he's a smart footballer and has been distributing the ball well and making space for Didier.

Everyone else was fairly unimportant, aside from Cech's athleticism in the late stages.

Good game of Bremen yesterday - they were all over the field for most of the time and especially Hunt is back after his injury.

Haven´t seen a lot of the Bayern game, but what i saw...only the players in white tried to 'play' soccer (a bit atleast).

Dynamo Kiev is quickly turning into the San Marino of Champions League. 2-9 in the first two games, and the next two are against Lyon :shakehead Not only the team completely falls apart in every game, now we have our 3rd choice keeper as the only one available for the next game (Shovkovskiy is suspended, Rybka has a concussion, courtesy of Ramos). For the first time in my life, I'm embarassed of this team...

Dynamo Kiev is quickly turning into the San Marino of Champions League. 2-9 in the first two games, and the next two are against Lyon :shakehead Not only the team completely falls apart in every game, now we have our 3rd choice keeper as the only one available for the next game (Shovkovskiy is suspended, Rybka has a concussion, courtesy of Ramos). For the first time in my life, I'm embarassed of this team...

Despite the scoreline, they had their moments against Madrid. I thought they could have had 2-3 goals. I don't think the scoreline was a completely accurate reflection of the match.

Wow, Marseille loses 4-2 in Boleslav. Shocking result. They're now out of the UEFA cup.
On the other hand, Nacy eliminated Schalke, which was a bit expected since I'm not sure Schalke took Nancy seriously, and anyone who follows L1 knows how hard to beat Nancy is. 3-1 tonight, they're through.
Bad evening for german teams as Herta was eliminated too.

Lens are also through.

Just came back from the Amsterdam ArenA where Ajax beat IK Start very comfortably 4-0. I paid attention to one man in particular and oh boy, I just don't think there's a better CB out there than the way Jaap Stam is playing for Ajax. I'd go as far and say he's the best CB I've ever seen play live.

Ajax, which rested 6 starters, had Markus Rosenberg scoring the first two goals, the second one being quite nice. The 3-0 was a very nice Grygera goal, very un-Grygera like actually as he controlled the ball on his chest before powering it in the uper corner. Babel completed the score with a very, very nice individual effort.

Feyenoord, AZ and Heereveen are also through. FC Groningen just missed the boat by a single goal. Don't know nothing about goalscorers or whether they played well. The pictures in the ArenA were rather lousy..

Despite the scoreline, they had their moments against Madrid. I thought they could have had 2-3 goals. I don't think the scoreline was a completely accurate reflection of the match.

Maybe the scoreline is not an accurate reflection of the match, but it's a very accurate reflection of the state of the club as a whole...

On the other hand, Nacy eliminated Schalke, which was a bit expected since I'm not sure Schalke took Nancy seriously, and anyone who follows L1 knows how hard to beat Nancy is. 3-1 tonight, they're through.
Bad evening for german teams as Herta was eliminated too.


Well, Schalke has (has had) more serious problems than Nancy. Overall the chemistry and team spirit lacks for some weeks now starting with the havoc around Asamoah and Halil Altintop and prior to the Nancy game Bordon open up another chapter of 'How to create havoc'.
Haven´t seen the game for longer than about 10 minutes, but obviously they do have bigger problems right now than just playing soccer. Otherwise a guy like Özil wouldn´t have played anyway. Not to take anything away from Nancy, but it´s been easy to beat Schalke with all that havoc in the team structure.
Right now they´re paying for having so many big individuals.

Hertha BSC Berlin: they´re unsucessfull in the UEFA-Cup/CL for years now. That was expected ;)

Madrid's defense is unbelievably shaky, I would have thought that Ramos and Cannavaro would be very solid, but Kyiv should have scored 3 goals at least, maybe more.

Thought that Beckham put in a very solid performance and I also liked Diarra a whole lot in this game. I don't think Meija is going to solve the problem at RB, but it's hard to say what they can do at this point, maybe move Ramos over there for a little?

Decent game for Arsenal against Porto. Defense was really, really solid, I can't really remember a single good Porto chance until stoppage time at the very end. Eboue is an absolute monster. Perfect cross for Henry's goal and did a good job on Quaresma when Quaresma was on his side.

Arsenal did cross a little more, I'm not sure if that's just an anomaly or a signal of intent. The problem is that crossing isn't that useful when we don't have Adebayor playing. However, Henry has scored two headers in his last two games and the 2nd header was a very good one.

Really got sick of Porto diving all over the pitch. Anderson is a great young talent, but he had a couple real bad ones. Someone else (can't remember who) had a dive that got Rosicky booked even though Rosicky got all ball. I don't think I could watch Portuguese football, the diving is just too blatant.

Really got sick of Porto diving all over the pitch. Anderson is a great young talent, but he had a couple real bad ones. Someone else (can't remember who) had a dive that got Rosicky booked even though Rosicky got all ball. I don't think I could watch Portuguese football, the diving is just too blatant.

I saw a lot of that in the Benfica match as well.

I saw a lot of that in the Benfica match as well.

I only saw the highlights, I have to say that Benfica did create a lot of chances and I think Manu were just a bit lucky to walk out of there with a 1-0 win.

I only saw the highlights, I have to say that Benfica did create a lot of chances and I think Manu were just a bit lucky to walk out of there with a 1-0 win.

I always think that getting a lot of chances but failing to finish is almost worse than not creating any chances at all.

Manchester United played better in the 2nd half and after they scored, were generally in command of the match.

They did look atrocious in that first half though.

Very tight groups in the UEFA Cup group fase:

Groep 1: Sevilla, Newcastle United, Panathinaikos, Parma, Ajax, Leverkusen, Feyenoord en Auxerre.

Groep 2: Club Brugge, Basel, AZ, Sparta Praag, Glasgow Rangers, Celta de Vigo, Paris Saint Germain, Lens.

Groep 3: Besiktas, Palermo, Espanyol, Heerenveen, Partizan Belgrado, Rapid Boekarest, Wislaw Krakow, Slovan Liberec.

Groep 4: Fenerbahce, Austria Wien, Hapoel Tel Aviv, Osasuna, Blackburn Rovers, Grasshoppers, Dinamo Boekarest, Livorno.

Groep 5: Tottenham Hotspur, Maccabi Haifa, Sporting Braga, Nancy, Eintracht Frankfurt, Zulte Waregem, Mlada Boleslav, Odense.

Group results:


Groep A
AJ Auxerre
Glasgow Rangers
FK Partizan
AS Livorno
Maccabi Haifa FC

Groep B
Bayer Leverkusen
Club Brugge
Besiktas JK
FC Dynamo Boekarest
Tottenham Hotspur

Groep C
Sevilla FC
AZ Alkmaar
Slovan Liberec
Grashopper
FC Braga

Groep D
Parma FC
RC Lens
SC Heerenveen
Osasuna
Odense BK

Groep E
Feyenoord
FC Basel
Wisla Krakow
Blackburn Rovers
AS Nancy

Groep F
AFC Ajax
AC Sparta Praag
RCD Espanyol
Austria Wien
Zulte Waregem

Groep G
Panathinaikos
PSG
Rapid Boekarest
Hapoel Tel-Aviv
Mlada Boleslav

Groep H
Newcastle United
Celta de Vigo
US Palermo
Fenerbahçe
Eintracht Frankfurt

Pretty interesting draft. All the groups look very competitive.

I agree, interesting cup this season... a lot of teams have some CL experience...:)

Group results:


Groep A
AJ Auxerre
Glasgow Rangers
FK Partizan
AS Livorno
Maccabi Haifa FC

Groep B
Bayer Leverkusen
Club Brugge
Besiktas JK
FC Dynamo Boekarest
Tottenham Hotspur

Groep C
Sevilla FC
AZ Alkmaar
Slovan Liberec
Grashopper
FC Braga

Groep D
Parma FC
RC Lens
SC Heerenveen
Osasuna
Odense BK

Groep E
Feyenoord
FC Basel
Wisla Krakow
Blackburn Rovers
AS Nancy

Groep F
AFC Ajax
AC Sparta Praag
RCD Espanyol
Austria Wien
Zulte Waregem

Groep G
Panathinaikos
PSG
Rapid Boekarest
Hapoel Tel-Aviv
Mlada Boleslav

Groep H
Newcastle United
Celta de Vigo
US Palermo
Fenerbahçe
Eintracht Frankfurt

Pretty interesting draft. All the groups look very competitive.

Last group is scary.
I bolded the teams I thought would go through (2 per group, right?).

3 teams per group

3 teams per group
Oh that's right, since 8 CL teams will be put in the second phase, I forgot about that.
I'll edit my post for the projections then.

Group B especially is just sick.

Also, I agree with most of your picks Evilo, Feyenoord should be lucky they have Krakow and Basel in the same group or else they wouldn't have survived, me thinks. I do think very, very high of Heereveen this year, they might surprise.

My group of death if H.
Newcastle, Celta, Palermo, Fenerbahçe and Frankfurt? That's harsh.

just newcastle's luck really:cry: .... hav no idea who's going to come out of that group.

Yeah I watched the draw and virtually every team I didnt want them to get, they got. At least they didnt get an Israeli team. I thought Group B was quite weak.. Tottenham got a lucky draw. PSG have a pretty bad travel itinery.

Three teams going through is a bit silly though, for all those fixtures played, fewer teams are getting eliminated than going through.

Is Guy still at Auxerre ?

Yeah I watched the draw and virtually every team I didnt want them to get, they got. At least they didnt get an Israeli team. I thought Group B was quite weak.. Tottenham got a lucky draw. PSG have a pretty bad travel itinery.

Three teams going through is a bit silly though, for all those fixtures played, fewer teams are getting eliminated than going through.

Is Guy still at Auxerre ?
No, Mr Guy Roux doesn't coach anymore, though I'm pretty sure he has still a hand on the team. Last season it was Jacques Santini, now it's Jean Fernandez (former Sochaux and Marseille). Guy Roux is now a broadcaster on Canal + (tv channel).