Topics

31

Football / Fears grow for Sissoko eyesight

« on: February 23, 2006, 10:38:39 AM »

BBC SPORTS




Liverpool's Mohamed Sissoko faces an anxious wait to discover if his eye injury could threaten his career.
The 21-year-old midfielder suffered retina damage after he was kicked in the face in Tuesday's loss at Benfica.

"The prognosis is guarded but vision will be compromised on the right side," said Joao Paco, the doctor who treated Sissoko at Lisbon's CUF hospital.

"We can't say now if it's going to be 20% or 80%, it's premature. You have to wait for the next 48 or 72 hours."

Sissoko returned to the UK on Wednesday and will be examined by an eye specialist in London on Thursday.

Liverpool chief executive Rick Parry told the club website: "We don't want to sound too pessimistic because it's too early to tell.

What Momo needs right now is our support and the best care he can get.

"His right eye is closed down and it's been difficult to assess the damage because of the swelling and bleeding.

"Obviously this is a very traumatic time for Momo and the club is in constant contact with his family and representatives. It's a very nasty injury."

Benfica's midfielder Beto said he had not intended to injure Sissoko, who was stretchered off after 35 minutes.

"My boot caught Sissoko in the face and it opened a big wound around the eye," said the Brazilian.

"I want to apologise - I did not mean to injure him. It was just a typical 50-50 midfield situation that happens all the time.

"It happened, but I did not mean to harm him and I hope he recovers quickly."

Mali international Sissoko has impressed since moving from Valencia for £5.6m last summer

32

General Discussion / Bird flu hit Afirca.

« on: February 22, 2006, 08:09:05 PM »

I just hope that this disease doesn't hit Trinidad


The Federal Government has announced that the Bird Flu has been detected in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.

Minister for Information and National Orientation, Frank Nweke, who said this yesterday, also stated that the Presidential Committee on the Prevention and Management of Avian Flu has taken delivery of the drug currently being used to manage the flu amongst humans, in countries where the flu had occurred.

Nweke, while re-affirming the determination of the Federal Government to curtail the spread and effects of the Bird Flu, told newsmen that in spite of the new outbreaks, the infection has remained localised within the earlier identified states of Plateau, Kaduna, Kano and Bauchi, adding that multi-agency surveillance teams put up by government has visited Abia, Edo, Rivers, Niger, Anambra, Sokoto and Nasarawa states where samples taken tested negative.

According to him, "extensive diagnostic tests have been conducted and are on-going amongst poultry workers nationwide, to date, no human cases have been recorded in Nigeria," Nweke said.
 
 
He said the presidential committee on the flu has ordered immediate stamping out of all birds in the affected farms, and commended state governments that have set up similar committees, and offered to assist in augmenting compensation to be paid to affected farmers in their states.

According to Nweke, "the Committee wishes to commend state governments who have established task forces to manage the crisis within their respective states and hereby call on states yet to do this to immediately do so, even if the flu has not been isolated within their states."

http://allafrica.com/stories/200602210852.html

33

Football / Dwight Yorke compilation (video)

« on: February 19, 2006, 09:31:54 PM »

What a great career Dwight Yorke had. I had some clips of Yorke when he played for manchester united and some recent ones with him in action for Sydney. I decided to make a comp of the clips i had and i am sharing it with by fellow forum members. Much thanks to Trini U of a man for providing me with some songs.

Size: 158mb
Length: 11 minutes

http://www.megaupload.com/?d=SEGS3K9M

34

Football / Rate the best strike force above you

« on: February 18, 2006, 05:49:34 PM »

Rate the best partnership above you from a scale of 1-10 and then state another partnership. Patnership can be rated based on skills, recongnition, goal scoring ability... e.t.c

Michael Owen and Wayne Rooney (England)

35

Football / Togo sack they coach

« on: February 14, 2006, 10:00:48 AM »

They sack the Nigerian coach that lead them to there first African Nations cup and first World Cup. They real ungratefull.

Keshi sacked as Togo coach 
 
The TFF's decision was announced during a television programme in Lome on Monday.

Federation officials stated that differences between Keshi and key players of the national team had forced them to take the decision.

Keshi, the former Nigeria captain, achieved the unprecedented feat of earning Togo a ticket to this summer's World Cup finals, ahead of Senegal and Zambia.

But the national team's first-round exit at the African Cup of Nations, where Keshi had a row with star player Sheyi Adebayor, had caused key TFF officials to turn against him.

German coach Otto Pfister and Bora Milutinovic, the Serbian that managed Nigeria at the 1998 World Cup finals, are among the candidates in the running to replace Keshi.

Pfister, who managed Ghana at the 1992 Nations Cup finals, has opened talks with TFF officials.

Togo have been drawn in Group G at the World Cup finals, alongside France, South Korea and Switzerland

http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/africa/4712480.stm
 

36

Football / A Africa nation could have won a world cup by now

« on: February 13, 2006, 02:00:30 PM »

I got these facts from another discussion. Look at the talent from African that just feeding other countries. If it wasn't for African talent France would have never won any world cup. They should give their trophy to Africa.


Zinedine Zidane: France (Algeria)


Sidney Govou: France (Benin)
Jean-Alain Boumsong: France (Cameroon)
Charles Itanje: France (Cameroon)
Bruno N'Gotty: France (Cameroon)
Pascal Nouma: France (Cameroon)

Henrik Larsson: Sweden (Cape Verde)
Manuel dos Santos: France (Cape Verde)

Rio Mavuba: France (DR Congo/Angola)
Claude Makelele: France (DR Congo)
Peguy Luyindula: France (DR Congo)
Blaise N'Kufo: Switzerland (DR Congo)
Emile Mpenza: Belgium (DR Congo)
Mbo Mpenza: Belgium (DR Congo)
Kiki Musampa: Holland (DR Congo)
Ali Maboula Lukunku: France (DR Congo)
Gaby Mudingayi: Belgium (DR Congo)
Patrick Dimbala: Belgium (DR Congo)
Vincent Kompany: Belgium (DR Congo)
Jose Bosingwa da Silva: Portugal (DR Congo)

Rami Shabaan: Sweden (Egypt)

Youssouf Hersi: Holland (Ethiopia)

John Alieu Carew: Norway (Gambia)

Freddy Adu: United States (Ghana)
Gerald Asamoah: Germany (Ghana)
Marcel Desailly: France (Ghana)
George Boateng: Holland (Ghana)
Eric & Daniel Ofori Okyere: Belgium (Ghana)
Quincy Owusu-Abeyie: Holland (Ghana)

Miguel: Portugal (Guinea Bissau)

Olivier Kapo: France (Ivory Coast)
Djibril Cisse: France (Ivory Coast)
Martin Djetou: France (Ivory Coast)


Collins John: Holland (Liberia)


Vikash Dhorasoo: France (Mauritius)

Yassine Benajiba: Belgium (Morocco)

Abel Xavier: Portugal (Mozambique)

Patrick Owomoyela: Germany (Nigeria)
Emmanuel Olisadebe: Poland (Nigeria)
Shola Ameobi: England (Nigeria)
Okonkwo Digger Ifeani: Malta (Nigeria)
Ugochukwu Ehiogu:England (Nigeria)
George Ndah: England (Nigeria)
Nedum Onuoha: England under-20 (Nigeria)

Laurent Robert: France (Reunion)
Didier Agathe: France (Reunion)
Florent Sinama-Pongolle: France (Reunion)


Patrick Vieira: France (Senegal)
Ibrahim Ba: France (Senegal)
David Bellion: France (Senegal)
Patrice Evra: France (Senegal)

Carlton Cole: England (Nigeria/Sierra Leone)
Fabio Liverani: Italy (Somalia)


Sean Dundee: Germany (South Africa)

Sabri Lamouchi: France (Tunisia)

Robert Earnshaw: Wales (Zambia)
Jeff Whitley: Northern Ireland (Zambia

37

Football / Compilation of Nations Cup

« on: February 11, 2006, 12:13:13 AM »

I made a compilation of nations cup of all the goals scored

http://s55.yousendit.com/d.aspx?id=17H7VTENZDIU61TFXD20H4RIZU.

Thanks to Trini U of W man for supplying me with the music

38

Football / Didier Drogba Thread.

« on: February 09, 2006, 02:26:36 PM »

Drogba: I'm better than Eto'o

The Elephants meet tournament hosts Egypt in Cairo with Drogba hoping to build on his match-winning semi-final strike against Nigeria.

Despite his impressive tournament, the Chelsea striker is riled by suggestions he is inferior to Barcelona's Eto'o, the current African Player of the Year who leads the goalscoring charts with five.

"I believe I am the best player in Africa and I am going to prove it tomorrow," said Drogba, whose club have been linked with a move for the Cameroonian.

"I am better than Samuel Eto'o, the only difference between me and Eto'o is that he knows how to publicise himself.

"If you are talking about football, I am a better player."

The Blues forward has scored three times in Egypt but believes he can match, and even beat Eto'o's mark against the Pharaohs.

He added: "I want to win this title, but not only that I also want to be the tournament's top scorer, so expect some goals from me."

Drogba's words are sure to stoke the fire ahead of a titanic encounter which will decide who will be crowned kings of Africa.

http://msn.foxsports.com/soccer/story/5318384

39

Football / Guinea vs Senegal

« on: February 03, 2006, 01:01:32 PM »

African power Senegal into semifinals and EGYPT into semi with a 4-1 thrasing of Congo

BBC SPORTS
Guinea 2-3 Senegal  
 
Senegal came from a goal down to beat Guinea 3-2 and reach the semi-finals of the African Cup of Nations.
Guinea opened the scoring in the 24th minute when Kaba Diawara capitalised on a mistake by the Senegal goalkeeper Tony Sylva.

Pape Bouba Diop scored Senegal's equaliser 16 minutes after the break, heading home a cross from Diomansy Kamara.

Mamadou Niang put Senegal ahead with seven minutes left on the clock when he smashed the ball home, picking up a pass from Henri Camara, who dispossessed Guinea defender Bobo Balde.


Henri Camara scored the Teranga Lions' third from close range in injury time, as Guinea keeper Naby Diarso could only parry a shot from Niang.

Pascal Feindouno grabbed a late consolation for the Syli Nationale with a stunning free-kick from outside the area.

Guinea dominated the opening half hour with Diawara at the centre of the action.

He twice headed wide in a five-minute spell, the second a free header from six metres, and had the ball in the net in the 19th minute, only for the goal to be ruled out for offside.

In the 26th minute, he pounced on Sylva's second mistake in successive games to open the scoring.

  What a great game!

From RF
Have your say on 606 
Senegal's Lamine Diatta played the ball back from the centre circle but Sylva, whose mistake allowed Nigeria to score on Tuesday, failed to control the ball with his first touch.

His attempted clearance was charged down by Diawara, who walked the ball into the empty net.

Senegal began to find their rhythm just before the break and Kamara burst through the Guinea back line before shooting wide.

Senegal were rewarded with an equaliser in the 62nd minute when Bouba Diop got in front of his marker to head home Kamara's inswinging cross from the edge of the area.

In a tense final half-hour, Senegal midfielder Amdy Faye shaved the post with a rasping 30-metre drive from a free kick and Kamara wasted an excellent chance with a poor final pass after a good move down the right.

Senegal's winner came with seven minutes to go as Camara burst down the left, won a tussle with Balde, and laid the ball into the path of Niang, who fired the ball into the net from 15 metres.

Camara got on the scoresheet in the third minute of injury-time, scrambling the ball in after Niang's first two efforts were blocked.

Feindouno added the final twist but it was too late for Guinea.

There were scuffles between the two sets of players after the final whistle that may well result in repercussions from the Confederation of African Football.

Senegal will now play either Egypt or the DR Congo in Tuesday's semi-finals.


Highlights
Diora goal : http://www.yallakora.com/goals/dsl/ghenya_1_sen.WMV
Diop goal: http://www.yallakora.com/goals/dsl/seng_1_ghenia.WMV
Niang goal http://www.yallakora.com/goals/dsl/sen_2_ghenia.WMV
Camara goal http://www.yallakora.com/goals/dsl/seng_3_ghen.WMV
Feindouno goaL: http://www.yallakora.com/goals/dsl/ghenia_2_seng.WMV

 

40

Football / Laryea in World Cup palaver

« on: February 01, 2006, 06:44:32 PM »

I didn't know that if you get a ban in a specific football federation tournament that it will carry over to the world cup. The Kingston situation is so sad or awful because he getting banned 4 games for just overreacting  For those that saw the act i posted it. For those that remember when Rivaldo fell down for overreacting in a world cup against turkey can remember he did not even receive a ban. I wonder if it is because he is not a player of calibre as rivaldo

In the video Kingston is the player that fell down after getting cuff. Do you all think he deserve a four match ban and it will carry over to the world cup.

http://s60.yousendit.com/d.aspx?id=3HO01MNF24HPH0G4P9NV2GWZV2

BBC SPORTS

Ghana midfielder Laryea Kingston's dream of playing at the World Cup finals appears to have been shattered.

His four-match ban, resulting from his expulsion in their Group D African Cup of Nations match against Senegal, could see him missing Ghana's three group games against Italy, the Czech Republic and the USA.

A spokesman for Fifa, football's governing body, told BBC Sport that while they do not comment on individual cases, suspensions not completed at a continental tournament will be served according to Article 39(2F) of Fifa's disciplinary code.

The rule states that: "Match suspensions in relation to the expulsion of a player outside of a competition or not served during the competition for which they were intended are carried over as follows:

"Confederation competitions for competitive teams: carried over to the to the representative team's subsequent official match in a competition organised by Fifa."

It is this rule that may have informed the decision of the Ghana Football Association to appeal to the Confederation of African Football to mitigate Kingston's record ban, so he can appear at the finals.

Kingston began serving the four-match suspension during the Black Stars final group game against Zimbabwe, which they lost 2-1.

The midfielder, who was forced to watch Tuesday's game from the stands, said Ghana's Nations Cup exit was a bitter pill to swallow.

"I feel very bad about it because most people back home will say the problem is from me. If I had been in the team, things could have been different," Kingston told BBC Sport.

"I'm very disappointed about the situation because my aim is to let people in Africa and the world know me. It's very unfortunate that I had problems in this tournament," he lamented.

"This was the first time I was not playing with my colleagues and I felt I had let the team down," he intimated.

Like most Ghanaian fans at the Ismailia Stadium on Tuesday, the player admitted the Black Stars played poorly against the Zimbabweans.

"I don't know what was wrong with the team. But we did not have six key players on the field and it affected the way we played."

Meanwhile, the player joins his new club Lokomotiv Moscow at their training camp in Spain on Thursday.

The Russian club are preparing for their Uefa cup tie with Sevilla on 15 February.

41

Football / Gloomy Day for Ghana

« on: January 31, 2006, 02:27:19 PM »

It appears Diouf was right about Ghana, Togo and Angola. He stated that the wrong teams are representing Africa in World Cup. I ain't know what happen to the Black Stars Today. They couldn't even beat Zimbabwe nevertheless draw resulting in Diouf and the Senegal to go through dispite losing 2-1 to Nigeria. Besides the two goals they scored, they are poor on attack and had one impressive shot on goal for the whole tournament which came from appiah and their defense are so vulnerable. Italy will eat up that defense in world cup. After the  final round of matches i have to conclude that Nigeria is a team with talent and depth. Matins was great and he raise his game when he found out that Ghana was losing to Zimbabwe. That is what the commentator said. He scored two and was looking for a third to send senegal out. Nigeria wanted Senegal out and Ghana couldn't even build a case for themselves to make Diouf eat his words. But then at the end of the day Ghana will be preparing for the world cup while Ignorant Diouf will be watching the game home in Bolton



Ghana 1-2 Zimbabwe 
BBC SPORTS
Martin Davies
Ismailia Stadium  


 
Ghana's John Pantsil (r) challenges Benjani for the ball

Ghana became the third World Cup-bound team to fail to go past the group stages at the African Cup of Nations after losing to 2-0 to Zimbabwe on Tuesday in Ismailia.

The Warriors, who were yet to earn their first point at the tournament, looked the stronger side from the start.

Veteran captain Peter Ndlovu and Portsmouth's Benjani Mwaruwai spear-headed the Zimbabwean attack which terrorised the Ghanaian half intermittently.

With the Black Stars defence under pressure, Zimbabwe were put 1-0 ahead by a 59th minute goal by Ghana defender Issah Ahmed.

The Ghanaian woes were compounded in the 69th minute when Benjani ran on to a loose ball on the edge of the area and calmly slots the ball into the net to put Zimbabwe 2-0 up.

With captain Stephen Appiah half-fit and and Laryea Kingston suspended, the Ghanaian midfield for most of the match looked non-existent as Zimbabwe worked hard to earn their first win of the competition.

Ghana's first serous attack on the Zimbabwe goal was scuppered by captain Stephen Appiah who was in the right place to latch on to a bouncing ball in the area - but he chose to blast his first-time shot and could not keep it down.

Zimbabwe had the chance to go 1-0 up in the 37th minute with Sammy Adjei pulling an acrobatic save to keep out Zvenyika Makonese's powerfully-struck free-kick which was heading for the top corner.

Moments later, Peter Ndlovu whipped in a brilliant cross but Benjani wasted another golden opportunity to put Zimbabwe ahead.

Before half-time Ghana were barely hanging on and the same pattern continued after the restart with the Ghana defence looking out of their depth for long spells.

With the game in injury time, Zimbabwe had cause to hope for a miraculous quarter-final berth but Benjani's goal was flagged offside by the linesman.

Ghana eventually found the back of the net though Baba Adamu's spectacular strike but with only seconds to go before the referee's final whistle, it was nothing more than a consolation for the Black Stars.

 

42

2010 World Cup - South Africa / South Africa seems in trouble

« on: January 30, 2006, 03:53:36 PM »

 Just finished watching ANC games for today. I am kinda upset with South Africa. They were discraceful whole tournament. The question for me is at the rate at which S. Africa is getting beatin in ANC and world cup qualification should they even be hosting the World Cup in 2010 at all. I mean who is next in line for them to spread their legs and bend over and take licks from teams in Africa that shouldn't be beating them at all. FIFA must investigate why South African football is such on a drastic downfall. I mean they didn't even play anything close to football. They just sit down whole tournament and collect licks. They ended the tournament with no goals scored, no points and had very very few shouts. I swear teams like St Vincent could have rape South Africa in that tournament. What a shame for African football and to make it worst they hosting it come 2010. Besides South Africa and Togo the tournament was quite competitive.

43

Quizz Time & Facts / Easy Quiz

« on: January 27, 2006, 05:09:52 PM »

Easier One. 

1) Who once scored four goals for Man Utd against his former club?
     A) Dwight Yorke
     B) Andrew Cole
     C) Ruud Van Nistelrooy


2) Manchester United paid a then British transfer record for which Trinidad and Tobagan player in the late 1990s?
    A) Andy Cole
    B) Dwight Yorke
    C) Ole Gunnar Solskjaer
    D) Roy Keane

3) Which former MLS star's goal in the ninth round of CONCACAF's World Cup qualifying for 2002 helped the U.S. clinch a World Cup berth? State the player name.

4) Which team did Haiti draw in the first round of Concacaf Qualifiers 2006?
a) Barbados
b) St Kitts and Nevis
c) Grenda
d) Trinidad and Tobogo

5) Which team stopped Mexico from reaching the Gold Cup semi-finals in 2005
A) Columbia
B) Trinidad and Tobago
C) Panama
D) USA

6) Who did Canada play in the semi - finals of the 2000 Gold Cup
A)Trinidad and Tobago
b) Costa Rica
c) Mexico
d) USA

7)  Who scored the first goal in Crew Stadium history
a) Stern John
b) Brian McBride
c) Andy Williams
d) Jeff Cunningham

  In the Concacaf World Cup Qualifying for 2002. Who won   
    group C?

a) Mexico
b) Trinidad and Tobago
c) Panama
d)Panada


9) One of these four hosts an annual summer football festival
Which one?

a) St. Kitts and Nevis
b) Guyana
C) Trinidad and Tobago
d) US Virgin Islands

10) When Atiba Charles went on a trial in England, which Wconnection player accompanied him

a) Silvio Spann
b) Arnold Dawrika
c) Andre Toussaint
d) Earl Jean


11) In the Concacaf Qualifying Tournament for Olympics 2000, what was final score between Canada and Trinidad
A) 0-0
B) 3-2
C) 2-0
D) 1-0

12) In Concacaf Gold Cup in 1991. Which opponent did Trinidad beat
A) USA
B) Coasta Rica
C) Canada
D) Guatemala

44

Quizz Time & Facts / World Cup quiz

« on: January 26, 2006, 06:48:17 PM »

I have a quiz for everyone. Post your answers and i would tell you how much you got and i would pm you all the answers 

Question number 1)
1966 World Cup Finals
The Jules Rimet World Cup trophy was stolen just before the 1966 World Cup. Who found it?

a)Scotland Yard
b) A dog
c) A tramp

Question number 2)
1966 World Cup Finals
 Something else went missing in 66. Which German player took home the ball used in the final?

a) Lothar Emmerich
b) Franz Beckenbauer
c) Helmut

Question number 3
1966 World Cup Finals
 Which rule was used for the last time in the finals in England?

a) No substitutes
b) Two points for a win
c)The two seeded teams only played the two unseeded teams/extra time in the case of a draw


Question 4
1966 World Cup Finals
 How much did it cost to stand on the terraces at the Wembley final?

a) £10
b) £8
c) £5

Question 5
World Cup 66
Which german politician was convinced that the disputed third goal in the England - Germany final was valid?

a) President Heinrich Lübke
b) Chancellor Ludwig Erhard
C) Vice-Chancellor Erich Mende

Question 6
1966 World Cup Finals
 At the World Cup draw in Leipzig in December 2005 the head of the 2006 World Cup Organising Committee, Franz Beckenbauer, met one of the opposition from the 1966 Wembley final again. Who was it?

a)Bobby Moore
b)Bobby Charlton
c)Geoffrey Hurst

Question 7
England captain Bobby Moore was arrested and spent four days in a Colombian prison during the 1970 World Cup competition. What was his alleged offence?

a) Assaulting a police officer
b) Whistling on a Sunday
c) Stealing jewellery from a shop in BogotἯtd


Question 8
Why did the Indian national team withdraw from the 1950 World Cup competition?

a) Their top goal scorer couldn't find a babysitter
b) Their much-loved captain had booked the wrong four weeks off work
c) They had been forbidden to play barefoot

Question 9
Players on the United Arab Emirates team were offered bonuses for each goal they scored during the 1990 World Cup finals. What form did these bonuses take?

a) Marks & Spencer gift vouchers
b) Woolworths record tokens
c) Rolls Royce cars

Question 10
Why was Chile disallowed to participate in the 1994 qualifying competition?
a) A Chilean goalkeeper faked his injury in a qualifying match.
b) Chile were unable to pay the participation fee.
c) Chile refused to play a play-off match in USSR in 1989.
d) The Chilean military government was accused of murdering thousands of political opponents

Question 11
Why did the referee add on 8 minutes of injury time to the first half of extra-time in the 1990 Semi-Final between Italy and Argentina?
 a) The referee forgot about the time.
 b) The stadium clock had stopped moving.
 c) The Italian goalkeeper was knocked down unconscious.
 d) Three players were sent off during that period

Question 12

What were the similarities of the hat-tircks scored by Argentina's Gabriel Batistuta in 1994 and in 1998?
a)  The date was 21 June of the year.
b)  The opponents were World Cup finals debutants.
c)  The third goal was a penalty.
d)  All of the above

Question 13
Why did Ronaldo change his hair style after Brazil beat England in the 2002 quarter finals?
 a) To carry out a promise to his physiotherapist.
 b) To improve his ball control by head.
 c) To look more different from his teammate Roberto Carlos.
 d) He was inspired by a character in an ancient Korean movie

Question 14
Which country was the original hosts of the 1986 World Cup?
 a) Chile.
 b) Uruguay.
 c) Colombia.
 d) Brazil
 

45

Football / World Cup Classic

« on: January 26, 2006, 03:56:28 PM »

Some videos of the best goals scored in world cup from different positions

Top Ten World Cup goals from Free kick
http://s59.yousendit.com/d.aspx?id=21ZVBR8ZBS4Z63Q31HQEODOOW9

Top Ten World Cup goals from Long Distance
http://s59.yousendit.com/d.aspx?id=1PTB44ZK67XQ13L09UFXUVO2UV

Top Ten World Cup goals from headers
http://s57.yousendit.com/d.aspx?id=2COXG7ARFLSB10EO2KYVBUDSYY

Top Ten World Cup Individual Goals (repost)
http://s54.yousendit.com/d.aspx?id=2IS4R03AU6O8G3KEF8KDJJYSFF

the greatest video you would see ( Pele )
http://s55.yousendit.com/d.aspx?id=12DP6FW6MAXOZ2RY8Z712P79G4

Top Ten Goal Keeper save in World Cup
http://s55.yousendit.com/d.aspx?id=3JZ5LU9SUTJX41S3A2MUSX99VH

Maradona in nation team part 1
http://www.megaupload.com/?d=UYAS0NX2

46

Football / Cameroon 2-0 Togo

« on: January 25, 2006, 02:32:19 PM »

The two goals scored today was brilliant. Best goals of the tournament so far. ETO'O really a striking force. Almost had another one in the 77minute.

By Martin Davies
BBC Sport, Cairo

Cameroon reached the quarter-finals of the African Cup of Nations with a 2-0 win over World Cup finalists Togo, who now cannot qualify from Group B.
Samuel Eto'o gave the Indomitable Lions the lead on 68 minutes with a stunning 20-yard shot into the top corner.

Eto'o turned provider 17 minutes later for Albert Ze Meyong, who with his back to goal flicked the ball into the net.

Cameroon also hit the woodwork twice while Emmanuel 'Sheyi' Adebayor wemt close for Togo.

The Indomitable Lions deserved their victory but found Togo more obstinate opponents than Angola were in Cameroon's opening game.

Eto'o's fourth goal of the tounrnament came as Rudolph Douala, so often the supplier of the ammunition for the Barcelona striker, crossed into the box.

Daniel Ngom Kone wanted too long on the ball and as it broke loose it fell to Eto¿o just outside the box, and he rifled it into the roof of the net.

Signs of a breakthrough had been coming soon after half time when Geremi hit the bar with a free-kick.

Minutes later Togo¿s Adebayor broke into the box at the other end and tumbled as he tried to go around Cameroon keeper Hamidou Souleymanou, who saved well with his feet.

Togo tried and wanted something from this game, but found they were unable to deal with their superior opponents.

Eto¿o's first good chance came at the end of the first half as his shot hit the angle of bar after Rudolph Douala's shot at the end of a weaving run had been parried buy Koassi Agassa in the Togo goal.

Togo¿s only first-half chance of note came when an Adebayor pass was controlled nicely by Yao Aziawonou, who then volleyed cleanly, perhaps too cleanly, as Hamidou was able to save.

Cameroon owed the second goal to Eto¿o too. With five minutes to go he changed pace and broke into the box. His cut-back was classily tucked home by substitute Ze Meyong - his first goal for his country.

But it was Eto¿o who rightly milked the applause at the end. His four goals in Egypt equal his personal best at a finals, when he struck four at the competition in 2000 as Cameroon went on to win.

There was also recognition for Cameroon captain Rigobert Song who picked up an award at half-time from the president of the Confederation of African Football, Issa Hayatou, for playing in his record 25th game at the Nations Cup.

Eto'o
http://s54.yousendit.com/d.aspx?id=3QXTC2VIZW6QI3CLEZZYRW8DKM

47

Football / Arsenal vs Wigan

« on: January 24, 2006, 04:02:51 PM »

Who watching the game. It looking like it heading for penalties

Hengry Goal
http://s61.yousendit.com/d.aspx?id=3P46O3VPJPV0O2GTH3T02DJHDV

Reyes Miss
http://s61.yousendit.com/d.aspx?id=397GL218KRRHX3GSRW1R1EZ0P1

Van Persie
http://s61.yousendit.com/d.aspx?id=2C8655SZYR1O22BSZWGFNOVZR0

Jason Roberts
http://s57.yousendit.com/d.aspx?id=0YA4QOI94L9AZ05OA1M1E994W5

Jason Robets Interview
http://s55.yousendit.com/d.aspx?id=1QRCINFJ7N1SN3153ROCSN6YMI

48

Football / Libya 1-2 Ivory Coast

« on: January 24, 2006, 02:25:28 PM »

Ivory Coast Knock Libya out of ANC. They are the first team to go home.

Matthew Kenyon
BBC Sport, Cairo

Didier Drogba and Yaya Toure scored as the Ivory Coast defeated Libya in their African Cup of Nations Group A match at the Cairo International Stadium on Tuesday.

The result leaves Ivory Coast with six points after two games and a place in the quarter-finals, after Egypt drew 0-0 with rivals Morocco in the other Group A game.

But the West Africans were given a genuine scare by the impressive Libya, who equalised through Abdelsalam Khamis.

Libya started poorly and it looked as though it would be the widely expected regulation victory for the Ivorians after they took the lead in the 10th minute.


Arouna Kone broke down the left wing and cut inside before shooting.

The Libyan keeper fumbled his save and Kone knocked the rebound into the path of the onrushing Drogba, who drove home from close range.

But far from building on their lead, the Elephants allowed an adventurous Libyan team to create a number of good chances.

 Have Your Say on 606
Give your thoughts on the game 
Libya's free-flowing play seemingly discomforted the Ivorians, who had made plenty of changes from the starting line-up that claimed victory over Morocco in their first Group A game.

And Libya received their just rewards a minute before half-time when a header from Khamis 10 yards out from goal squeezed under the diving Jean-Jacques Tizie.

Parity at half-time was scarcely more than the Libyans deserved - but the Ivorians looked unsettled by their opponent's battling performance.

Libya's pace hardly let up in the second period - and as the Egyptian crowd grew steadily noisier in anticipation of their own match later in the day they noisily threw their support behind their North African counterparts.


And Libya were unlucky not to take the lead when a wonderful passing phase culminated in Nader Kara clipping the post.



But the natural order of things was restored by Tore on 74 minutes when he looped a header over the keeper and into the net despite the despairing efforts of two Libyan defenders stood on the line.

Drougba Goal
http://s52.yousendit.com/d.aspx?id=0C9J4RH1CE06P1KMHS0EKZEHPK

Toure Goal
http://s60.yousendit.com/d.aspx?id=3GR5WFUGDT48S3NE05348Q8MN9

Khamis Goal
http://s60.yousendit.com/d.aspx?id=2BYV0B68TVN6W0C0FNGKJE38DB

49

Football / The Super Eagles Truimph over the Black Stars

« on: January 23, 2006, 01:33:10 PM »

Taiwo goal sinks Ghana 
Farayi Mungazi
BBC Sport, Port Said 
 
The latest chapter in Nigeria's rivalry with Ghana produced a 1-0 victory for the Super Eagles in Group D of the 2006 African Nations Cup finals.

A fiercely struck shot from Marseille left back Taye Taiwo five minutes from time settled a keenly contested affair at a packed El Masry stadium in Port Said.

The game was heading for a draw when the Super Eagles won a free-kick 30 yards out.

Yussuf Ayila rolled the ball to Taiwo whose long-range shot flew past Ghana goalkeeper Sammy Adjei.

This match was hyped up to the heavens but the opening exchanges almost put the crowd to sleep as the two teams took a safety-first approach.

The game came to life in the 24th-minute when Taiwo's well-taken free-kick outside the area produced an excellent save from Adjei.

Ghana's response was almost instantaneous as Matthew Amoah took advantage of some sloppy marking to threaten the Nigerian goal with a long-range effort that sailed just wide.

The best chance of the first half fell to Julius Aghahowa after 39 minutes.

  I expected Ghana to win and still think they will triumph in their remaining group games

From NC
Have your say on 606 
Aghahowa was given the freedom of the Ghanaian penalty area but his shot hit the side netting.

Two minutes before the interval, Wilson Oruma negotiated his way past two defenders before drawing another fine save from Adjei.

Nigeria began the second period with menacing intent.

Obafemi Martins, Osaze Odemwingie and the impressive Oruma took turns to endanger Adjei's goal, as Ghana struggled to get out of their own half.

Laryea Kingston could have given the Black Stars the lead after 58 minutes but for a terrific one-handed reflex save by Vincent Enyeama.

Matthew Amoah then cleverly lost his marker but missed the target with a free header from six metres

Ghana have become the third of Africa's World Cup qualifiers to lose their opening match at the Nations Cup following Angola and Togo's defeats to Cameroon and the DR Congo respectively.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/africa/4636552.stm

Clips

Taye-Taiwo..... What a free kick

http://s43.yousendit.com/d.aspx?id=1IFTUOK...T221VS4Y0GX1RWE

50

Football / The strongest National League of the World

« on: January 22, 2006, 11:19:40 PM »

Just came across a link for the best leagues in the world rated by IFFHS. Saw they have the USA 64th  , Mexico 11th, Costa Rica 43  . I noticed that the Aussie league not there  .


The strongest National League of the World 2005
Die stärkste Liga der Welt 2005
La Mejor Liga de Fútbol del Mundo 2005
Le Meilleur Championnat National du Monde 2005
by IFFHS
Top Division of Points
 
 
 
1. England 1207,0
2. Italia 1137,0
3. France 995,0
4. España 985,0
5. Deutschland 950,0
6. Brasil 946,0
7. Nederland 890,5
8. Argentina 850,0
9. Russia 710,5
10. Ukraina 665,0
11. México 657,0
12. Portugal 633,5
13. Belgique 631,0
14. Chile 618,0
15. Colombia 615,0
16. Scotland 595,5
17. Türkiye 573,0
18. Greece 564,5
19. România 526,0
20. Perú 502,5
21. Schweiz 484,5
22. Paraguay 483,0
23. Bulgaria 465,0
24. Österreich 463,0
25. Česká Republika 462,5
26. Uruguay 451,5
27. Danmark 430,5
28. Srbija i Crna Gora 426,5
29. Ghana 417,0
30. Maroc 413,0
31. Egypt 409,0
32. Ecuador 406,0
33. Nigeria 404,0

 Norge 404,0
35. Slovensko 403,5
36. UAE 401,5
37. Tunisie 384,0
38. Bolivia 380,0

 Eesti 380,0
40. South Africa 377,5
41. Saudi Arabia 376,0
42. Lietuva 368,0
43. Costa Rica 367,0
44. Slovenija 355,5
45. Éire 349,0
46. China 348,0

 Polska 348,0
48. Azerbaijan 344,0
49. Macedonia 339,0
50. Albania 335,0
51. Georgia 319,0
52. Zimbabwe 318,0
53. Korea (S) 317,0
54. Moldova 316,0
55. Suomi 313,0
56. Japan 310,0
57. Qatar 308,5
58. Latvija 307,5
59. Cameroun 307,0
60. Côte-d'Ivoire 303,0
61. Magyarország 302,5
62. Israel 297,5
63. Iran 297,0
64. USA 294,5
65. Sénégal 290,5
66. Belarus 289,5
67. Kuwait 288,0
68. Guatemala 287,0
69. Jordan 285,5
70. Armenia 284,0
71. Zambia 282,5
72. Honduras 282,0
73. Sverige 280,0
74. Hrvatska 277,5
75. Uzbekistan 277,0
76. Angola 273,5
77. Bahrain 257,0
78. Algérie 256,0
79. Turkmenistan 254,5
80. El Salvador 235,0

http://www.iffhs.de/?17f7370eff3702bb1c2bbb6e28fa3002f71504e52d

51

Football / Compilation of Goals scored in last world cup

« on: January 22, 2006, 08:52:37 PM »

Great compilation of the goals scored in world cup 2002. The music is great.... the whole dam thing good.


http://s62.yousendit.com/d.aspx?id=0PVS7QXY7DZA71E22R200O6TL1

52

Football / Togo vs DR congo

« on: January 21, 2006, 08:46:00 PM »

Togo get licks today and it look like they have a licking to get in world cup

Match Report from BBC

Lomana LuaLua guided the DR Congo to a 2-0 win over Togo in Group B of the African Cup of Nations in Cairo on Saturday.

Both sides had several good chances to open the scoring in the first half but the deadlock was eventually broken three minutes before the break, when LuaLua put Tresor Mputu through on goal and he then lifted the ball over the diving goalkeeper Kossi Agassa in the Togo goal.

LuaLua got on the score sheet himself in the second half as he turned Eric Akoto on the edge of the Togo area before shooting across goal with Agassa failing to hold on to the ball.

The DR Congo could have scored more in the game and Mbala Mbuta alone could have scored a hat-trick.

One of his efforts hit the bottom of the post in the 25th minute and rolled along the line before being cleared by Togo and his earlier shot had forced Kossi into making a difficult save at the near post.

Togo created good chances of their own, the best came early in the first-half Kader Coubadja somehow failed to score from just two yards out as he put his shot wide.

The Hawks seemed to miss the influence of their key striker Emmanuel 'Sheyi' Adebayor, who didn't start the game after complaining of a stomach problem, despite appearing on the original team sheet.

He did make an appearance as a substitute late in the game but was unable to make a difference.

The Simbas and Cameroon, who beat Angola 3-1, both have three points after the opening encounters in Group B.

The DR Congo will play Angola on Wednesday while Cameroon face Togo on the same day.



Goals that scored today

http://s64.yousendit.com/d.aspx?id=2CM20V0E7BCET3M4Y0U4MPW9UF

http://s64.yousendit.com/d.aspx?id=2XPLJPAL0MU1O33PTIKRY3R4JL

53

Football / ETO'O Get Hat Trick today

« on: January 21, 2006, 11:32:34 AM »

Eto'o score three goals against Angola today.
http://www.eurosports.com/football/egypt/2006/sport_sto817063.shtml

Drougba also score today.

http://www.eurosports.com/football/mc_vid23076.shtml

African Footballer of the Year Samuel Eto'o scored a hat-trick for Cameroon as they easily overcame Angola 3-1 in Group B of the African Cup of Nations in Alexandria on Saturday.

The Barcelona striker's first goal was a beautifully struck free kick after 21 minutes from 25 metres out.

World Cup qualifiers Angola drew level 10 minutes later from the penalty spot, as Flavio converted after Akwa was brought down in the area.

Eto'o restored the Indomitable Lions lead just eight minutes later when he stooped to head home a cross from Rodolph Douala.

Angola had more of the possession in the second half, but created few chances, as Cameroon looked happy to soak up the pressure and defend their lead.

The introduction of Pedro Mantorras for Angola in the second-half also seemed to spark the Palancas Negra into life.

Indeed Mantorras almost equalised in the 65th minute when he headed wide from a cross by another second-half substitute Ze Kalanga, the narrow miss angered Eto'o who felt Angola should have given Cameroon the ball back after they put the ball into touch so Rigobert Song could recieve treatment.

Cameroon and Eto'o sealed the victory 12 minutes from time when he fired home an unstoppable shot from outside the area.

The scoreline could have been more for the Indomitable Lions with Jean Makoun, Achille Webo and substitute Pierre Boya all coming close to scoring close.

The Indomitable Lions next match is on Wednesday against Togo, while Angola face the DR Congo on the same day.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/africa/4628950.stm

54

Football / Egypt win opener today

« on: January 20, 2006, 04:17:53 PM »

Mido score today   

Hosts Egypt put their lacklustre build-up to the African Cup of Nations behind them with a 3-0 defeat of 10-man Libya in front of the home fans at the Cairo International Stadium.

After a dramatic opening ceremony featuring images of the country's historic past, it was a modern-day hero - Ahmed 'Mido' Hossam - who inspired Egypt in this Group A tie on Friday.

Newly returned from English Premiership duty with Tottenham, it was Mido who struck first, driving home a far-post header from Mohamed Abdelwahad's corner with just 17 minutes on the clock.

Five minutes later, Mohamed Aboutrika curled in a stunning 30-yard free-kick to all but secure the points before half-time.

There was a slow start to the second half in which Egypt rested on their laurels and Libya strove manfully but to little effect.

But the Pharaohs soon made sure of a perfect start to the tournament.

  A good start for Egypt - but I see them struggling in this group

From KR
Have your say on 606 

Midway through the half, BBC African Footballer of the Year Mohamed Barakat was hauled down in the box by Libya's Uruguay-born goalkeeper Luis de Agustini, who received a second yellow card for the challenge.

The first task of substitute goalkeeper Muftah Ghazalla was to face Mido for the resulting penalty.

Impressively, Ghazalla blocked the shot but he failed to hold on to the ball and was beaten by Ahmed Hassan's follow-up.

It was a strong start for Egypt who looked much-improved after their disappointing defeat in a friendly against South Africa last weekend.

The Pharaohs were watched in the International Stadium by the country's president, Hosni Mubarak - whose presence accounted for the tight security which surrounded the whole of the opening day.

The rumour that Libyan leader Colonel Muammar Gaddafi would also be present proved unfounded - and that was perhaps just as well, because the group minnows presented little challenge to the Egyptian defence.

Group A resumes on Saturday, when Ivory Coast play Morocco in the Cairo International Stadium.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/africa/4628194.stm

55

Football / Arsenal complete Walcott transfer

« on: January 20, 2006, 08:04:10 AM »

BBC SPORTS

Arsenal have completed the signing of Southampton striker Theo Walcott.
The highly-rated 16-year-old is moving to Arsenal for a fee that is expected to be worth an initial £5m, but rising to about £12.5m.

Walcott said: "I am so pleased to be joining Arsenal - a club I have admired for a long time.

"Coming to Arsenal will give me the opportunity to work with world-class players every day and play football at the highest possible level."

Walcott was unveiled alongside Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger at Arsenal's training ground in London Colney, Hertfordshire.

The striker added: "It is a strange day because I am also very sad to be moving from Southampton.

 THE STORY AS IT DEVELOPED
12 January
Walcott linked with Arsenal move
13 January
Wenger hopeful of Walcott switch
18 January
Henry hoping for Walcott link-up 

"I am leaving many friends and some great coaches who have been so important to my career so far, but I leave with many great memories from the club.

"I am now really looking forward to meeting my new team-mates and working hard as an Arsenal player."

Walcott is the most expensive 16-year-old in the history of British football.

Jermaine Pennant was 15 when he moved from Notts County to Arsenal for a fee of £2m.

Wayne Rooney was 18 when he made his £20m move to Manchester United, who also paid £12m for an 18-year-old Cristiano Ronaldo.

Wenger is a huge admirer of the youngster and said he had tracked the player for more than two years.

He was delighted to have beaten off interest from Chelsea, Manchester United, Tottenham and Liverpool to his signing.

He said: "Theo Walcott is a very young player, but has already shown in his performances for Southampton that he is a talented player with huge potential.

"I also like the fact that he is a versatile player who is incredibly dedicated, shows great determination to succeed and is blessed with electric pace.

  We have done everything to keep Theo at Southampton

Saints chairman Rupert Lowe

"We are delighted Theo has signed for the club and will make a fantastic addition to our squad.

"There is always a gamble when you take young players. But I was ready to take that gamble.

"We did things properly with Southampton, then the agents, the family, the player.

"He made his decision and we would have respected whatever he decided but we were keen to get him.

"He is comparable to Wayne (Rooney) at his age. You have to be cautious with comparisons.

"Rooney has made big steps forward and justified what people said about him and I feel Theo can do the same."

Southampton chairman Rupert Lowe told the club's website: "We are bitterly disappointed. The purpose of developing the best Academy in the country is not to sell scholars to larger clubs.

"We have done everything to keep Theo at Southampton. But his family and advisors are determined that he leave this club and go to Arsenal.

BBC Sport revealed on 13 January that Arsenal would be coming in with a big bid for Walcott, prompting Wenger to admit later that day that he was an admirer of the teenager's precocious talent.

He also let slip last weekend that a deal was almost done.

Referring to new arrivals Emmanuel Abedayor and Abo Diaby, he said Arsenal had signed "three players" but then changed that to "two-and-a-half".

Asked if he was referring to Walcott, the Arsenal manager said: "I would like to tell you."

  I'm over the moon but who has niggling doubts about Theo being another Jeffers, Pennant?

From B
Have your say on 606 

Portsmouth boss Harry Redknapp, who gave Walcott his debut during his time at Southampton, believes Arsenal are getting a player of huge potential but warned against comparisons with Thierry Henry.

"The kid can run through puddles and not make a splash," he told the BBC. "He's lightning, he drifts over the ground and he's a fantastic talent. Wherever he goes I'm sure he's got a great future.

"Henry is as fantastic a footballer as you'll ever see and I hope this kid can go on and be a top player as well.

"But he is a million miles from Thierry Henry and if he ever gets anywhere near his standard he will be one of the best players we've ever seen in this country.

"He's got a long way to go to get there but, please God, he becomes a top player which I'm sure he can do

http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/teams/a/arsenal/4614538.stm

56

Football / New Soca Warriors website

« on: January 19, 2006, 05:36:23 PM »

People the new site start up. I ain't like this at all.

http://www.socawarriorstt.com/

What we could do

57

Football / Germany Announces Visa Restrictions For Fans Travelling With Their National Team

« on: January 19, 2006, 05:23:32 PM »

Germany's Foreign Ministry announced today that fans travelling from eleven different countries will need a Visa in order to be allowed entry into the country.

Fans with passports from Angola, Ivory Coast, Ecuador, Ghana, Iran, Saudi Arabia, Serbia and Montenegro, Togo, Trinidad & Tobago, Tunisia and Ukraine will all require a Visa to enter Germany.

However, the German Government pledged to reduce the paperwork involved in the procedures to make it as easy as possible.

WorldCupLatest.com suggests to any fans wishing to travel from the countries mentioned above to get in contact with the nearest German Embassy or Consulate, in order to find out the paperwork required.

No Football Association has returned any unsold tickets and tickets available through FIFA are many times oversubscribed, with a ballot determining the lucky holders.

German Authorities have asked help from the Army in order to ensure safety, because some delegations are considered to be high risk targets for terrorists. There will be many politicians who are well known football fans and other VIP guests visiting.

With the USA, England, Australia, Italy, Japan and Spain national football teams travelling to Germany, the country will enforce strict security measures, sites hosting tournament matches will be militarised zones, as exactly happened in Athens during the 2004 Olympic Games.

The German government is also worried about the visitors who will want to immigrate to the country, taking advantage of the volume of visitors to Germany.

The World Cup is the only tournament with bigger audiences than the Olympics. 32 national football teams have qualified for the World Cup 2006, including hosts Germany

source: http://www.worldcuplatest.com/node/1599

58

Football / Ivorians anger Wenger

« on: January 11, 2006, 10:18:31 AM »

I didn't know FIFA so dred. Is there a fifa calender for the African nation cups.

Source: BBC

http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/africa/4594730.stm

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger has criticised the Ivory Coast for banning Kolo Toure and Emmanuel Eboue from playing in their FA Cup tie against Cardiff on Saturday.

The English club were warned by Fifa just 90 minutes before kick-off at Highbury that they risked handing the game to Cardiff if they fielded the two Ivory Coast internationals.

Wenger had hoped the Ivory Coast would delay their call-up to the African Nations Cup finals beyond Tuesday's Carling Cup semi-final tie against Wigan, let alone Saturday's third-round match.

However, his request for a delay was refused as the Ivory Coast stuck rigidly to Fifa's 14-day call-up rules ahead of the tournament in Egypt, with Didier Drogba also barred from playing for Chelsea.

That led to a hasty revision of the Arsenal team-sheet, with two youngsters Johan Djourou and Kerrea Gilbert being drafted into the starting line-up at short notice ahead of the 1pm kick-off.

Wenger revealed: "At the team meeting at 9am on Saturday, Kolo Toure and Emmanuel Eboue were both in the team. But I had to pull them out at 11.30am as the Ivory Coast banned the players from playing and refused to give in.

"They threatened to go to Fifa if we played them. We asked Fifa and they said that if we played them, we risked losing the game.

"I didn't want to take that chance so I pulled them out.

"It's quite amazing when you get to a period where there is no common sense at all. We pay the players to play for them and they can ban the players we pay from playing for us - at a period where they're not playing at all.

"They're making so-called medical tests in Paris but it's just 50 minutes away from here by plane and we just wanted the players to go after playing."

Wenger said Toure and Eboue face the threat of burn-out ahead of a frenetic schedule of international fixtures.

After taking part in the African Nations Cup later this month, the Elephants will play at the World Cup finals in Germany in June.

"It is completely unbelievable. It's like you play the European Championship now and then the World Cup this summer," Wenger said.

"When they come back, they will be dead physically as the tournament is very intense in a different climate and there's all the travelling."

59

Football / Oldest player to start a World Cup game

« on: November 23, 2005, 09:13:40 PM »

Just out of Curiosity, Who is the oldest player to ever start in a world cup game and what was his age. I just wanted to know if Latapy will be up there considering his age.

60

Football / Spanning the Globe

« on: November 03, 2005, 08:14:27 PM »

Spanning the globe
By Ian Prescott (Trinidad Express)

Do you know there are 8,964 miles between Japan and Trinidad and Tobago? Silvio Spann might know. He has been feeling every one of them every time he comes home to play an International match for T&T.

A day after landing in Trinidad, Spann was absolutely exhausted following one of Leo Beenhakker's training session. Despite being very fit, the combination of a long flight and a torrid training session had taken their toll on the young T&T international footballer.

"For me, that is the greatest difficulty...the up and down. But that is the price I have to pay to represent my country. And it is an honour to represent Trinidad and Tobago."

Despite the long hours of travel and the certain jet lag, Spann says he will make the trip any and every time coach Beenhakker calls on him. He's eager to get to the World Cup Finals.

"To play with the national team has been a real honour for me," he says in a soft tone. "I would very much like to go to the World Cup. That is something that I would like to do for my father because he was not able to do it in his time."

Silvio laughs, when compared to his father Leroy, a former national captain with a big reputation in T&T even now...long after his heyday.

"First of all, I am not a left-footer like him, and those are very big shoes to fill. I think that rather than try to do that, I just have to do the best than I can."

Modest, he appears, but Spann has already done a lot in just 24 years. A former student of Couva Junior Secondary and St Benedict's College, Spann played club football with Doc's Kelwalaas and Vibe CT 105 W. Connection in the local leagues, before getting his first overseas contract while still a teenager. At 19, he was signed by Perugia, an Italian club, at which he stayed for two seasons, before returning to play for W. Connection.

Now in his first season with the Japanese second division club Yokohama F.C., Spann says he is comfortable in Japan, despite being the only Trinidadian to play there. And despite the cultural difference, he has already taken to the Japanese people. He admires their politeness and resourcefulness and they have been able to help him settle. His biggest problem in Japan may be the food. He is allergic to shell fish and unfortunately the only Japanese food he can eat is sushi...raw fish.

"A lot of the food the Japanese eat is raw and because of my allergies that has caused me some problem. What I have had to do is find an Italian restaurant so that I can still get my pasta...and so on."

Because the Japanese have taken to him, Spann is determined to make the best of his situation. He often mentions that with God's help, everything will work out. Already, he already become a favourite at Yokohama, a club which after a very slow start, has only now started to pick up victories and is eighth of the 12 teams in the competition. He says he has had to make some adjustment after playing the laid back football of the T&T Pro league for some time.

"The game in Japan is very fast. The Japanese are not strong people, so they have to be quick. There football is also technically very good."

Spann, hopes to use his stint in Japan to improve his game.

He list his own strengths as being a good defensive midfield, having a good first touch, and being able to shoot the ball very well. These are the skill he hopes will take both Yokohama up the league table and T&T to the World Cup Finals.

SPORTS EDITOR'S NOTE: Although Silvio Spann, because of his two yellow cards, was not eligible to play for T&T in this country's 2-1 victory over Mexico here last month, he will however be
again available from the first home game on November 12 against Bahrain.