Kaka produced another superb strike to help Brazil draw 1-1 away to Peru in Sunday's FIFA World Cup qualifiers while Marcelo Salas scored his first international goals for more than two years in Chile's 2-2 away draw to Uruguay.Kaka scored with a 30-metre shot which dipped and swerved away from Peru goalkeeper Diego Penny to give the five-times world champions a halftime lead in Lima before Juan Vargas equalised in the second half.
Salas, Chile's all-time leading scorer who was recalled to the squad in August, took his international tally to 37 goals after scoring twice in 11 minutes in Montevideo.
The former Lazio and Juventus striker stopped playing altogether for the first half of the year after failing to negotiate a new contract with Universidad de Chile but rejoined the Santiago club in July to resume his career.
Uruguay, who had taken the lead through Luis Suarez, snatched a point thanks to a late equaliser from Sebastian Abreu.
Argentina, 3-0 winners over Bolivia on Saturday, are the only team with maximum points after three of the 18 rounds of games in the single South American group.They are followed by Paraguay (7 points), Brazil and Colombia (5), Uruguay and Chile (4), Venezuela (3), Bolivia and Peru (2) and Ecuador (0).
The top four teams qualify directly for the 2010 finals in South Africa and the fifth plays off against the fourth-placed team from the CONCACAF region.
Brazil could have secured all three points with the last move of the game but Juan's header from a Ronaldinho free-kick crashed against the crossbar.
Peru mounted an early barrage on Julio Cesar's goal but Brazil weathered the storm and went ahead with Kaka's third goal of the qualifiers five minutes before half-time. The AC Milan player nearly scored again with a clever chip two minutes later but Peru goalkeeper Diego Penny tipped the ball over.
Peru came back into the game and Vargas equalised with a deflected 25-metre shot in the 71st minute, the first scored by his team and conceded by Brazil in the group."Our performance was very good in the first half but we dropped off in the second, when we lost a lot of balls in the midfield and they were able to hit us on the break," said Brazil coach Dunga.
Suarez gave Uruguay a 41st minute lead after they had dominated the first half in Montevideo before Salas, who scored his last international goal in June 2005, sprang into action.
He equalised by meeting Carlos Villanueva's cross with a diving header in the 59th minute and converted a 70th minute penalty after Matias Fernandez was bundled over by Uruguay captain Diego Lugano.
Abreu salvaged a point for Uruguay with nine minutes left.
Chile coach Marcelo Bielsa conceded his team did not deserve to win."If we had won the match, it would not have coincided with what happened on the field of play, for which reason the point which we obtained was valuable to us," said the former Argentina coach.
Source : FIFA
Monday, November 19, 2007
Ronaldinho optimistic of facing Peru
Brazil's Ronaldinho, troubled by an ankle injury, said he was confident of facing Peru in Sunday's FIFA World Cup™ qualifier in Lima.
However, the Barcelona player said he would play only if he was fully fit and that he was not prepared to risk aggravating the injury.
"The ankle is not swollen any more but I still feel some pain," he told reporters. "It's in the final stage of treatment. I've had a big improvement, I'm going to continue the treatment, travel with the team and my thinking is that I will play."
Brazil, who have four points from two games in the South American Zone, also face Uruguay at home on Wednesday. "There has been progress every day since I arrived and I intend to play both games," said Ronaldinho.
"But it's not a question of sacrifice. I want to play well here but I also want to return in good shape for my club. They have called every day to see how I'm progressing, I want to be 100 per cent, without pain and with confidence."
Ronaldinho took part in a practice match for 20 minutes on Thursday, but trained alone in the gymnasium on Friday. Diego, Julio Baptista or Elano are the likely replacements if he cannot play.
Source : FIFA
However, the Barcelona player said he would play only if he was fully fit and that he was not prepared to risk aggravating the injury.
"The ankle is not swollen any more but I still feel some pain," he told reporters. "It's in the final stage of treatment. I've had a big improvement, I'm going to continue the treatment, travel with the team and my thinking is that I will play."
Brazil, who have four points from two games in the South American Zone, also face Uruguay at home on Wednesday. "There has been progress every day since I arrived and I intend to play both games," said Ronaldinho.
"But it's not a question of sacrifice. I want to play well here but I also want to return in good shape for my club. They have called every day to see how I'm progressing, I want to be 100 per cent, without pain and with confidence."
Ronaldinho took part in a practice match for 20 minutes on Thursday, but trained alone in the gymnasium on Friday. Diego, Julio Baptista or Elano are the likely replacements if he cannot play.
Source : FIFA
Everything looks decided
FC Barcelona won 3-0 away to Alcoyano with goals from Henry, Gudjohnsen (p) and Bojan, and as good as sentenced the tie, although there is still the second leg to play at the Camp Nou on January 2. Are going to miss out on a place in the next round. A first half goal from Henry and two late additions from Gudjohnsen and Bojan mean that despite their aggressive attitude to the game, Alcoyano are will only be playing at the Camp Nou for the experience, and not for any realistic hope of qualification.
Barça wholly superior
The game was intense from the outset, with Alcoyano clearly desperate to make a game of it, but nothing they could do was of any trouble to Barça. The visitors took a professional attitude from the start and refused to allow their hosts to get carried away and little by little started pegging Alcoyano back in their own half.
Gudjohnsen and Henry connect
Barça’s dominance finally played dividends with Henry’s opener (min 25), who found the target nicely following a delightful assist from Gudjohnsen. The Icelander and Frenchman have developed a terrific understanding and in the 42nd minute combined again, only for Henry’s effort to hit the post. At half time it was still 1-0, but only Barça looked like scoring any more.
Second hard to find
But despite his excellent first half, Henry made way for Bojan after the break, although the Icelander stayed on and continued to perform well, and almost got his reward in the 50th minute with a shot that missed by inches.
Bojan (57) and Gudjohnsen again (72) also came close, but both strikes went over the bar. Things took a turn for the worse when Giovani was stretchered off.
Gudjohnsen at last
It was all one-way traffic, but the second goal did not arrive until the 80th minute after the home side were reduced to ten men when Baixauli received his second yellow card. Shortly after the referee granted Barça a penalty for handball in the area, and Gudjohnsen coolly converted in the 82nd minute to make it 2-0.
Final barrage
The third came deep into injury time, and that with Alcoyano down to nine men after Carrión was sent off for a dangerous tackle on Bojan, the same player who scored Barça’s third following a delightful cross from Xavi from the right (94).
In the end Barça came home with a 3-0 advantage that hardly forced the best out of the team, and a place in the next round now seems little more than a formality.
The goals :
0-1, Henry (min 25)
0-2, Gudjohnsen (pen, min 89)
0-3, Bojan (min 94)
Source : FCB
Barça wholly superior
The game was intense from the outset, with Alcoyano clearly desperate to make a game of it, but nothing they could do was of any trouble to Barça. The visitors took a professional attitude from the start and refused to allow their hosts to get carried away and little by little started pegging Alcoyano back in their own half.
Gudjohnsen and Henry connect
Barça’s dominance finally played dividends with Henry’s opener (min 25), who found the target nicely following a delightful assist from Gudjohnsen. The Icelander and Frenchman have developed a terrific understanding and in the 42nd minute combined again, only for Henry’s effort to hit the post. At half time it was still 1-0, but only Barça looked like scoring any more.
Second hard to find
But despite his excellent first half, Henry made way for Bojan after the break, although the Icelander stayed on and continued to perform well, and almost got his reward in the 50th minute with a shot that missed by inches.
Bojan (57) and Gudjohnsen again (72) also came close, but both strikes went over the bar. Things took a turn for the worse when Giovani was stretchered off.
Gudjohnsen at last
It was all one-way traffic, but the second goal did not arrive until the 80th minute after the home side were reduced to ten men when Baixauli received his second yellow card. Shortly after the referee granted Barça a penalty for handball in the area, and Gudjohnsen coolly converted in the 82nd minute to make it 2-0.
Final barrage
The third came deep into injury time, and that with Alcoyano down to nine men after Carrión was sent off for a dangerous tackle on Bojan, the same player who scored Barça’s third following a delightful cross from Xavi from the right (94).
In the end Barça came home with a 3-0 advantage that hardly forced the best out of the team, and a place in the next round now seems little more than a formality.
The goals :
0-1, Henry (min 25)
0-2, Gudjohnsen (pen, min 89)
0-3, Bojan (min 94)
Source : FCB
Second defeat of the season
Barca went down to their second defeat of the season at Getafe tonight as Laudrup’s team took advantage of two of the very few chances in the game to win 2-0.
Rijkaard’s men lacked the aggression that a tough away trip like this was always going to demand and once again tasted defeat on the ground that saw their dramatic cup hammering last season. It seemed that few lessons had been learned from that defeat when Getafe went ahead after some poor defending in the first half and Barca were unable to muster any kind of reply to the home team’s determined pressing, even suffering a further goal late on after they had been reduced to 10 men following Zamrotta’s red card.
Slow start
The game got off to a slow start, though Getafe showed that they were willing and able to take the game to their visitors, even dominating at times and forcing Barca to defend deep.
Ulche gave notice of things to come with a good effort on 17 minutes, which Valdes did well to deal with and that seemed to draw some kind of response from Barca as Henry latched onto a precise Iniesta through ball on 23 minutes, only for the keeper to stop his effort with his legs, then soon after Milito also came close, heading a corner inches over the bar.
Getafe make most of their chances
Just as Barca appeared to be about to impose themselves on the game, Getafe scored, Manu taking advantage of slack marking to fire home a flick on from Mario on 27 minutes. It was a body blow to the visitors, who for the rest of the half never looked like turning the game around again.
Changes fail to turn the game around
Trijkaard shuffled the pack at half time, bringing on Zamrotta for Thuram and moving Puyol back into central defence and Barca took control of the game, as Getafe closed up shop, determined to defend their one-goal lead. Unfortunately tonight Barca seemed to lack the spark up front to convert their massive possession advantage into real goal scoring opportunities. Rijkaard again tried to inject some fresh legs, replacing Ronaldinho, who’d suffered a crunching tackle from De La Red, with Giovanni and then Bojan for Messi, but the youngsters were unable to make much impact.
Zambrotta sees red
Getafe slowed the game down with continual interruptions and fouls and Zambrotta lost his nerves with a reckless two footed tackle that saw him given a straight red.
Laudrup’s team took full advantage of the space left down Barca’s right flank and as the game drew to an end they finished off the game with a strike from Albin and sent Barca to their second league defeat this season.
Goals
1-0 Del Moral (min 27)
2-0 Albín (min 90)
Source : FCB
Rijkaard’s men lacked the aggression that a tough away trip like this was always going to demand and once again tasted defeat on the ground that saw their dramatic cup hammering last season. It seemed that few lessons had been learned from that defeat when Getafe went ahead after some poor defending in the first half and Barca were unable to muster any kind of reply to the home team’s determined pressing, even suffering a further goal late on after they had been reduced to 10 men following Zamrotta’s red card.
Slow start
The game got off to a slow start, though Getafe showed that they were willing and able to take the game to their visitors, even dominating at times and forcing Barca to defend deep.
Ulche gave notice of things to come with a good effort on 17 minutes, which Valdes did well to deal with and that seemed to draw some kind of response from Barca as Henry latched onto a precise Iniesta through ball on 23 minutes, only for the keeper to stop his effort with his legs, then soon after Milito also came close, heading a corner inches over the bar.
Getafe make most of their chances
Just as Barca appeared to be about to impose themselves on the game, Getafe scored, Manu taking advantage of slack marking to fire home a flick on from Mario on 27 minutes. It was a body blow to the visitors, who for the rest of the half never looked like turning the game around again.
Changes fail to turn the game around
Trijkaard shuffled the pack at half time, bringing on Zamrotta for Thuram and moving Puyol back into central defence and Barca took control of the game, as Getafe closed up shop, determined to defend their one-goal lead. Unfortunately tonight Barca seemed to lack the spark up front to convert their massive possession advantage into real goal scoring opportunities. Rijkaard again tried to inject some fresh legs, replacing Ronaldinho, who’d suffered a crunching tackle from De La Red, with Giovanni and then Bojan for Messi, but the youngsters were unable to make much impact.
Zambrotta sees red
Getafe slowed the game down with continual interruptions and fouls and Zambrotta lost his nerves with a reckless two footed tackle that saw him given a straight red.
Laudrup’s team took full advantage of the space left down Barca’s right flank and as the game drew to an end they finished off the game with a strike from Albin and sent Barca to their second league defeat this season.
Goals
1-0 Del Moral (min 27)
2-0 Albín (min 90)
Source : FCB
Barça in contro
FC Barcelona comfortably beat Rangers with a domineering display of passing and incisive football to move clear at the top of the group. First half goals from Thierry Henry and Lionel Messi gave the hosts maximum points.
The Blaugrana called for an early goal and they achieved their aim as the deadlock was broken after just six minutes as Rangers set themselves up to defend in numbers. That goal failed to open the visitors up, however, and Barça were forced to continue to look for space in which to create a second. That was eventually found just before the break and left the Scottish side with no way back.
In the second period, the hosts created even more chances as they were bale to relax and produce their trademark attacking football. Rangers maintained their stance and only troubled Víctor Valdés in the closing minutes. The victory saw Frank Rijkaard's side move three points clear at the top of the group and become clear favourites to progress to the next round. The desired startThe first goal of the night arrived after just six minutes when Ronaldinho floated a cross to the far side of the area where Messi arrived unmarked to head back across goal and Henry beat Carlos Cuellár to prod the ball home from point-blank range after it had clipped the inside of the post. It was just the start that the hosts wanted and was an important strike after Barça had failed to find a way through when the teams first met in Glasgow two weeks ago.
In the 17th minute Iniesta ran onto a loose ball after Messi's run was halted, and the Barça midfielder bent a drive just wide of the post from 20 yards out. Ten minutes later Ronaldinho, who was clearly enjoying himself again, made a quick turn of the hips and a realignment of the body to provide himself with the space to send a fizzing drive goalwards, but Allan McGregor was equal to the effort as the Scottish custodian tipped the ball over the bar.
Messi goal
The game remained intense as Rangers sat back and Barça continued to probe. Then, three minutes before half-time the second goal arrived. Ronaldinho played a neat one-two with Messi on the edge of the area to allow the Brazilian to surge forward and shoot. McGregor saved the initial shot with his legs, but was helpless as Messi strode onto the rebound and tucked the ball home from close range.
Further chances
After the break there was little change in the pattern of the game as Barça continued to press forward, while the visitors continued to look to protect their goal. Xavi had two good chances to put the Blaugrana further ahead, but both his efforts were off target, while Messi was denied twice by McGregor.
Carles Puyol was revelling in his role at right-back and spent the majority of the game surging down the flank to play as a second winger and a third goal looked to be on the cards.
Rangers edge forward
That goal never arrived through, despite substitute Bojan Krkic's attempts to break through. The youngster replaced Ronaldinho with 14 minutes remaining and looked lively, despite being unable to make his mark in the Champions League with a goal.
In the closing moments, Rangers finally ventured forward and Jean-Claude Darcheville saw a free-kick saved by Valdés before the Catalan custodian was called on again in injury time to deny Nacho Novo.
THE GOALS :
1-0, Henry (min 6)
2-0, Messi (min 42)
Source : FCB
The Blaugrana called for an early goal and they achieved their aim as the deadlock was broken after just six minutes as Rangers set themselves up to defend in numbers. That goal failed to open the visitors up, however, and Barça were forced to continue to look for space in which to create a second. That was eventually found just before the break and left the Scottish side with no way back.
In the second period, the hosts created even more chances as they were bale to relax and produce their trademark attacking football. Rangers maintained their stance and only troubled Víctor Valdés in the closing minutes. The victory saw Frank Rijkaard's side move three points clear at the top of the group and become clear favourites to progress to the next round. The desired startThe first goal of the night arrived after just six minutes when Ronaldinho floated a cross to the far side of the area where Messi arrived unmarked to head back across goal and Henry beat Carlos Cuellár to prod the ball home from point-blank range after it had clipped the inside of the post. It was just the start that the hosts wanted and was an important strike after Barça had failed to find a way through when the teams first met in Glasgow two weeks ago.
In the 17th minute Iniesta ran onto a loose ball after Messi's run was halted, and the Barça midfielder bent a drive just wide of the post from 20 yards out. Ten minutes later Ronaldinho, who was clearly enjoying himself again, made a quick turn of the hips and a realignment of the body to provide himself with the space to send a fizzing drive goalwards, but Allan McGregor was equal to the effort as the Scottish custodian tipped the ball over the bar.
Messi goal
The game remained intense as Rangers sat back and Barça continued to probe. Then, three minutes before half-time the second goal arrived. Ronaldinho played a neat one-two with Messi on the edge of the area to allow the Brazilian to surge forward and shoot. McGregor saved the initial shot with his legs, but was helpless as Messi strode onto the rebound and tucked the ball home from close range.
Further chances
After the break there was little change in the pattern of the game as Barça continued to press forward, while the visitors continued to look to protect their goal. Xavi had two good chances to put the Blaugrana further ahead, but both his efforts were off target, while Messi was denied twice by McGregor.
Carles Puyol was revelling in his role at right-back and spent the majority of the game surging down the flank to play as a second winger and a third goal looked to be on the cards.
Rangers edge forward
That goal never arrived through, despite substitute Bojan Krkic's attempts to break through. The youngster replaced Ronaldinho with 14 minutes remaining and looked lively, despite being unable to make his mark in the Champions League with a goal.
In the closing moments, Rangers finally ventured forward and Jean-Claude Darcheville saw a free-kick saved by Valdés before the Catalan custodian was called on again in injury time to deny Nacho Novo.
THE GOALS :
1-0, Henry (min 6)
2-0, Messi (min 42)
Source : FCB
Barça and Rangers battle for supremacy
Frustrated by Rangers FC's stubborn resistance on Matchday 3, FC Barcelona will try to improve on their 0-0 draw with Walter Smith's side in Glasgow when the top two teams in Group E reconvene at Camp Nou.
Only goal difference separates Barcelona from Rangers at the group summit with the sides both unbeaten with two wins and a draw apiece. Victory for either in Spain would represent a major step towards the last 16 – and in the event of third-placed Olympique Lyonnais losing at home against VfB Stuttgart, would actually secure the winning team a place in the UEFA Champions League knockout stage with two games to spare.
Prior to their stalemate at Ibrox, Barcelona had won 2-0 at Stuttgart on Matchday 2, Carles Puyol and Lionel Messi scoring in the second half. Frank Rijkaard's men defeated Lyon 3-0 at home in their opening fixture, Messi and Thierry Henry adding to the lead given them by François Clerc's own goal.
Rangers began their campaign with a 2-1 success against Stuttgart, coming from behind to win through goals from Charlie Adam and Jean-Claude Darcheville. They built on that positive start with a 3-0 victory at Lyon on 2 October, Lee McCulloch, Daniel Cousin and DaMarcus Beasley all scoring as Rangers recorded their first away win in the UEFA Champions League since 2000/01.
Following their unbeaten start, Rangers are on course to register their best points tally in the UEFA Champions League since the introduction of the 32-team group stage. Their best performance to date in terms of points was in 2000/01 when they accrued eight points, having recorded two wins, two draws and two defeats.
Barcelona are one of only two teams in the 2007/08 UEFA Champions League yet to concede a goal along with Arsenal FC.Barcelona have won only once in six previous meetings with Scottish opposition. That victory came on their last visit to Glasgow to face Rangers' neighbours Celtic FC in the UEFA Champions League in September 2004 – Deco, Ludovic Giuly and Henrik Larsson were the scorers in a 3-1 success.
The Spanish club's home record against Scottish teams does not inspire confidence with one defeat and two draws, most recently a 1-1 draw with Celtic in the 2004/05 group stage. Samuel Eto'o opened the scoring for Barcelona in that match only for John Hartson to level for the visitors.
Prior to that draw, they had lost 2-1 to Dundee United FC in the 1986/87 UEFA Cup quarter-final and been held 0-0 by Celtic in the fourth round of the same competition in 2003/04, running out aggregate losers on both occasions.
However, Rangers have a disappointing record in Spain, with two draws and six defeats from eight matches there.
In addition, they have lost five out of seven two-legged ties against Spanish opposition, the most recent reverse coming last season in the UEFA Cup Round of 16, where they lost 2-1 on aggregate to CA Osasuna. Brahim Hemdani's injury-time equaliser earned Rangers a 1-1 first-leg draw prior to their second-leg defeat in Pamplona.
Rangers' most recent UEFA Champions League opponents from Spain were Villarreal CF, whom they met in the first knockout round in 2005/06. The Light Blues fought back twice to salvage a 2-2 draw at Ibrox but a 1-1 draw in Spain left them eliminated on the away-goals rule.
Barcelona defender Lilian Thuram was part of the Parma FC side defeated 2-0 at Rangers, and 2-1 overall, in a UEFA Champions League third qualifying round tie in August 1999. More recently, Thuram was in the France team beaten by a Scotland outfit featuring four Rangers players – David Weir, Alan Hutton, Lee McCulloch and Barry Ferguson – in a UEFA EURO 2008™ qualifying match in Paris in September.
Weir, McCulloch and Ferguson were also in the side that beat Thuram and Henry's France 1-0 in Glasgow in October 2006.
Rangers' Spanish forward Nacho Novo began his career with SD Huesca before leaving his home country to join Raith Rovers FC in 2001.
Source : UEFA
Only goal difference separates Barcelona from Rangers at the group summit with the sides both unbeaten with two wins and a draw apiece. Victory for either in Spain would represent a major step towards the last 16 – and in the event of third-placed Olympique Lyonnais losing at home against VfB Stuttgart, would actually secure the winning team a place in the UEFA Champions League knockout stage with two games to spare.
Prior to their stalemate at Ibrox, Barcelona had won 2-0 at Stuttgart on Matchday 2, Carles Puyol and Lionel Messi scoring in the second half. Frank Rijkaard's men defeated Lyon 3-0 at home in their opening fixture, Messi and Thierry Henry adding to the lead given them by François Clerc's own goal.
Rangers began their campaign with a 2-1 success against Stuttgart, coming from behind to win through goals from Charlie Adam and Jean-Claude Darcheville. They built on that positive start with a 3-0 victory at Lyon on 2 October, Lee McCulloch, Daniel Cousin and DaMarcus Beasley all scoring as Rangers recorded their first away win in the UEFA Champions League since 2000/01.
Following their unbeaten start, Rangers are on course to register their best points tally in the UEFA Champions League since the introduction of the 32-team group stage. Their best performance to date in terms of points was in 2000/01 when they accrued eight points, having recorded two wins, two draws and two defeats.
Barcelona are one of only two teams in the 2007/08 UEFA Champions League yet to concede a goal along with Arsenal FC.Barcelona have won only once in six previous meetings with Scottish opposition. That victory came on their last visit to Glasgow to face Rangers' neighbours Celtic FC in the UEFA Champions League in September 2004 – Deco, Ludovic Giuly and Henrik Larsson were the scorers in a 3-1 success.
The Spanish club's home record against Scottish teams does not inspire confidence with one defeat and two draws, most recently a 1-1 draw with Celtic in the 2004/05 group stage. Samuel Eto'o opened the scoring for Barcelona in that match only for John Hartson to level for the visitors.
Prior to that draw, they had lost 2-1 to Dundee United FC in the 1986/87 UEFA Cup quarter-final and been held 0-0 by Celtic in the fourth round of the same competition in 2003/04, running out aggregate losers on both occasions.
However, Rangers have a disappointing record in Spain, with two draws and six defeats from eight matches there.
In addition, they have lost five out of seven two-legged ties against Spanish opposition, the most recent reverse coming last season in the UEFA Cup Round of 16, where they lost 2-1 on aggregate to CA Osasuna. Brahim Hemdani's injury-time equaliser earned Rangers a 1-1 first-leg draw prior to their second-leg defeat in Pamplona.
Rangers' most recent UEFA Champions League opponents from Spain were Villarreal CF, whom they met in the first knockout round in 2005/06. The Light Blues fought back twice to salvage a 2-2 draw at Ibrox but a 1-1 draw in Spain left them eliminated on the away-goals rule.
Barcelona defender Lilian Thuram was part of the Parma FC side defeated 2-0 at Rangers, and 2-1 overall, in a UEFA Champions League third qualifying round tie in August 1999. More recently, Thuram was in the France team beaten by a Scotland outfit featuring four Rangers players – David Weir, Alan Hutton, Lee McCulloch and Barry Ferguson – in a UEFA EURO 2008™ qualifying match in Paris in September.
Weir, McCulloch and Ferguson were also in the side that beat Thuram and Henry's France 1-0 in Glasgow in October 2006.
Rangers' Spanish forward Nacho Novo began his career with SD Huesca before leaving his home country to join Raith Rovers FC in 2001.
Source : UEFA
Ronaldinho : "I’m still not 100%"
Speaking the day after scoring two goals in Barça’s 3-0 defeat of Betis, Ronaldinho gives us his thoughts on the start to the season and his own form. He believes he has room for improvement.
In an exclusive interview with Barça TV and www.fcbarcelona.cat, Ronaldinho speaks freely about the criticism he has received recently. He assures us that he’s not worried by it and that his aim is to perform at 100% of his possibilities and stay with Barça.
At home you’re unbeatable. You’re the best team in Europe at home.
"Perfect, isn’t it? Things are going really well at home and now we have to try and be at the same standard in away matches. The objective is to do well at home and away”.
Why does Barça change so much away from the Camp Nou?
"I think it’s normal. The same difficulties that teams have when they play here, we have when we play away. When they play at home, other teams are very motivated and have the support of the fans. All this makes it very difficult for us”.
Rijkaard says you need more mentality. More sacrifice away from home.
"He has a perfect right to say whatever he likes. He’s the coach. It’s true that we’re performing better in every match. You have to listen to him and respect him, and it’s our job to do what he asks”.
Are you starting to get back to the form you were in before the international break?
"Every time you stop, you find it a bit difficult to get back to the same level. Let’s hope the same thing doesn’t happen after the next break. It’s normal when you stop playing regularly with the same team at the same rhythm”.
Are you feeling better?
"Each day that goes by, I’m happier. After my injury, I’m feeling good again and I hope to be 100% as soon as possible”.
Does that mean you still don’t feel fully fit?
"No. I’m still not 100%. I want to improve in all aspects. I’m better than before but I’m aware I could be much better”.
We saw you smile yesterday. Does that mean you’re enjoying yourself on the pitch?
"They only film me when I’m not smiling because I’m always happy. But sometimes, people don’t want to see you smiling and don’t show you smiling. But it’s true. I enjoyed myself yesterday and I’m feeling better all the time”.
Was the goal against Valladolid psychologically important in your performance yesterday?
"I don’t think it was fundamental. I’m fitter in every match and that’s good. It’s not the goal that gives me more confidence, especially if you bear in mind that I’m not a player that scores in every match. But it’s great when you find yourself with a good rhythm. If the goals come, then better still. What makes me even happier is scoring from free kicks. It’s something I work on a lot and when it comes off I’m very happy”.
Did you need a performance like that to regain confidence, or for people to have confidence in you again?
"Neither. A player has to check every day if he’s in good shape. That’s a footballer’s life. You have to keep proving every day that you have what it takes to be in the starting line-up, to be an international, to entertain the fans. So that’s my life every day”.
By the way, who did you dedicate the goals to?
"To a great friend, who’s always here for every match (Manel Vich, the Camp Nou announcer). I get on very well with him and yesterday I dedicated my goals to him”.
The second one as well?
Yes, both goals. He’s a great friend”.
You’ve now scored 90 goals for Barça and you’re the top scorer in the squad. This year you’ll reach 100, won’t you?
“Yes? Even I didn’t expect to score so many goals. It’s good and I hope it stays that way”.
Do you think we’re going to see the Ronaldinho of 2 or 3 seasons ago – the player that scored impossible goals?
"You’re always going to see a motivated player, who wants to give 100%, and I hope that’s what everybody comes to see. A Ronaldinho that is always trying to do the best for his team”.
I suppose it’s difficult to be at the same standard. Do you think you set such a high standard that, now that you aren’t matching it, people think it’s not enough”.
"I think there’s criticism and criticism. There’s criticism from people who have never played football and don’t know what’s happening. Criticism from people who played and know how difficult it is and know everything that’s happening. I think I’m playing well but I’m aware I can improve a lot. I want to be where I think I can be”.
Some people say that you need to reinvent yourself as a player, that you can bring other things and be very important for the team.
"The important thing is to keep on innovating and finding a way to surprise. You always look to surprise, with dribbling, a new move, a new pass... As long as I believe I have the creativity for that, that’s what I’ll try and do. I’m never going to lose my characteristics because that’s what I know how to do. I want to mix everything that is innovative with the same things as always”.
Do you think you find it harder to do things that were easy before?
"No, but perhaps the fans expect me to do all the tricks, the opponents as well. If you don’t innovate, they all take the ball away from you. I believe it’s important to innovate in order to avoid repetition”.
How have you been these past few weeks? How do you react to criticism?
"I don’t worry. I always try and give 100% and bring the best to the team”.
Do you feel you’ve been unfairly treated?
"Never. Not at any moment. The fans have always been with me, which is what is important to me”.
Even now when people are talking about your private life?
"People always talk but they haven’t got anything to show. I’ve been here for many years, I’ve always had my way of living, and I’ve behaved the same. So far, nobody’s been able to prove I’ve done something. People always invent loads of stuff. And as they form public opinion, many people end up believing them”.
All your team-mates have defended you in recent weeks. They still consider you to be the leader of the team. Has their support been vital?
"They’re friends and they treat me well. We’re like a family. And that’s normal. When someone’s being criticised or unfairly treated we always defend him, because we want to see everyone at 100%”.
You’ve given a lot to FC Barcelona. The history of the Club has changed a lot in recent years. Do you think people have forgotten that?
"People have always been behind me. They’ve never left me. And that’s what motivates me: to train more and more every day to keep on entertaining. That’s my motivation”.
Are you happy in Barcelona?
"As always”.
As much as before?
"As always. More each day”.
Have you ever thought of leaving?
"Never”.
Team-mates What do you think about Messi being one of the idols of the Camp Nou?
"It’s normal and I’m very happy about it. Being with him and seeing everything that’s happening in his life is perfect. It’s wonderful and being his friend is something that delights me because he’s never changed”.
Why do you think Messi dedicates nearly all his goals to you?
"Because we’re very good friends and we always try and help each other. Both on and off the pitch. Most of the goals we score come from joint moves and we talk a lot about how to do these moves. When it works, it’s fantastic”.
What do you think about the two youngsters, Bojan and Giovani?
"It’s fundamental to have young players. It’s the future of Barça. Let’s hope the same happens to them as happened to Messi. They look good to me; they’re more and more confident. They’re with the squad each day and learning a great deal. They’re looking better and better”.
And the new signings? In particular Abidal and Touré, who were unknown to many of us and yet have become important players.
"They’re both great players. They’re contributing a lot and can contribute even more. They’re adapting to a new rhythm of play, to a team that plays in a different style to all the others, and I believe they still have a lot to give”.
There’s a lack of cohesion between you and Henry. You look for each other but very often the pass doesn’t come. Do you need time?
"It’s normal. Henry changed from a place where he’d been playing for many years and now he’s adapting. He can adapt to anyone. I’m very comfortable with him and each match we play together we know each other better. He’s a very intelligent player and very creative. It’s just a matter of time”.
The 2014 World Cup is going to be held in Brazil. Do you dream of taking part?
"Yes. I can see myself playing there. I imagine myself in form and in shape. My objective is to keep my place in the Brazil team all that time and help my country win another World Cup”.
Source : FCB
In an exclusive interview with Barça TV and www.fcbarcelona.cat, Ronaldinho speaks freely about the criticism he has received recently. He assures us that he’s not worried by it and that his aim is to perform at 100% of his possibilities and stay with Barça.
At home you’re unbeatable. You’re the best team in Europe at home.
"Perfect, isn’t it? Things are going really well at home and now we have to try and be at the same standard in away matches. The objective is to do well at home and away”.
Why does Barça change so much away from the Camp Nou?
"I think it’s normal. The same difficulties that teams have when they play here, we have when we play away. When they play at home, other teams are very motivated and have the support of the fans. All this makes it very difficult for us”.
Rijkaard says you need more mentality. More sacrifice away from home.
"He has a perfect right to say whatever he likes. He’s the coach. It’s true that we’re performing better in every match. You have to listen to him and respect him, and it’s our job to do what he asks”.
Are you starting to get back to the form you were in before the international break?
"Every time you stop, you find it a bit difficult to get back to the same level. Let’s hope the same thing doesn’t happen after the next break. It’s normal when you stop playing regularly with the same team at the same rhythm”.
Are you feeling better?
"Each day that goes by, I’m happier. After my injury, I’m feeling good again and I hope to be 100% as soon as possible”.
Does that mean you still don’t feel fully fit?
"No. I’m still not 100%. I want to improve in all aspects. I’m better than before but I’m aware I could be much better”.
We saw you smile yesterday. Does that mean you’re enjoying yourself on the pitch?
"They only film me when I’m not smiling because I’m always happy. But sometimes, people don’t want to see you smiling and don’t show you smiling. But it’s true. I enjoyed myself yesterday and I’m feeling better all the time”.
Was the goal against Valladolid psychologically important in your performance yesterday?
"I don’t think it was fundamental. I’m fitter in every match and that’s good. It’s not the goal that gives me more confidence, especially if you bear in mind that I’m not a player that scores in every match. But it’s great when you find yourself with a good rhythm. If the goals come, then better still. What makes me even happier is scoring from free kicks. It’s something I work on a lot and when it comes off I’m very happy”.
Did you need a performance like that to regain confidence, or for people to have confidence in you again?
"Neither. A player has to check every day if he’s in good shape. That’s a footballer’s life. You have to keep proving every day that you have what it takes to be in the starting line-up, to be an international, to entertain the fans. So that’s my life every day”.
By the way, who did you dedicate the goals to?
"To a great friend, who’s always here for every match (Manel Vich, the Camp Nou announcer). I get on very well with him and yesterday I dedicated my goals to him”.
The second one as well?
Yes, both goals. He’s a great friend”.
You’ve now scored 90 goals for Barça and you’re the top scorer in the squad. This year you’ll reach 100, won’t you?
“Yes? Even I didn’t expect to score so many goals. It’s good and I hope it stays that way”.
Do you think we’re going to see the Ronaldinho of 2 or 3 seasons ago – the player that scored impossible goals?
"You’re always going to see a motivated player, who wants to give 100%, and I hope that’s what everybody comes to see. A Ronaldinho that is always trying to do the best for his team”.
I suppose it’s difficult to be at the same standard. Do you think you set such a high standard that, now that you aren’t matching it, people think it’s not enough”.
"I think there’s criticism and criticism. There’s criticism from people who have never played football and don’t know what’s happening. Criticism from people who played and know how difficult it is and know everything that’s happening. I think I’m playing well but I’m aware I can improve a lot. I want to be where I think I can be”.
Some people say that you need to reinvent yourself as a player, that you can bring other things and be very important for the team.
"The important thing is to keep on innovating and finding a way to surprise. You always look to surprise, with dribbling, a new move, a new pass... As long as I believe I have the creativity for that, that’s what I’ll try and do. I’m never going to lose my characteristics because that’s what I know how to do. I want to mix everything that is innovative with the same things as always”.
Do you think you find it harder to do things that were easy before?
"No, but perhaps the fans expect me to do all the tricks, the opponents as well. If you don’t innovate, they all take the ball away from you. I believe it’s important to innovate in order to avoid repetition”.
How have you been these past few weeks? How do you react to criticism?
"I don’t worry. I always try and give 100% and bring the best to the team”.
Do you feel you’ve been unfairly treated?
"Never. Not at any moment. The fans have always been with me, which is what is important to me”.
Even now when people are talking about your private life?
"People always talk but they haven’t got anything to show. I’ve been here for many years, I’ve always had my way of living, and I’ve behaved the same. So far, nobody’s been able to prove I’ve done something. People always invent loads of stuff. And as they form public opinion, many people end up believing them”.
All your team-mates have defended you in recent weeks. They still consider you to be the leader of the team. Has their support been vital?
"They’re friends and they treat me well. We’re like a family. And that’s normal. When someone’s being criticised or unfairly treated we always defend him, because we want to see everyone at 100%”.
You’ve given a lot to FC Barcelona. The history of the Club has changed a lot in recent years. Do you think people have forgotten that?
"People have always been behind me. They’ve never left me. And that’s what motivates me: to train more and more every day to keep on entertaining. That’s my motivation”.
Are you happy in Barcelona?
"As always”.
As much as before?
"As always. More each day”.
Have you ever thought of leaving?
"Never”.
Team-mates What do you think about Messi being one of the idols of the Camp Nou?
"It’s normal and I’m very happy about it. Being with him and seeing everything that’s happening in his life is perfect. It’s wonderful and being his friend is something that delights me because he’s never changed”.
Why do you think Messi dedicates nearly all his goals to you?
"Because we’re very good friends and we always try and help each other. Both on and off the pitch. Most of the goals we score come from joint moves and we talk a lot about how to do these moves. When it works, it’s fantastic”.
What do you think about the two youngsters, Bojan and Giovani?
"It’s fundamental to have young players. It’s the future of Barça. Let’s hope the same happens to them as happened to Messi. They look good to me; they’re more and more confident. They’re with the squad each day and learning a great deal. They’re looking better and better”.
And the new signings? In particular Abidal and Touré, who were unknown to many of us and yet have become important players.
"They’re both great players. They’re contributing a lot and can contribute even more. They’re adapting to a new rhythm of play, to a team that plays in a different style to all the others, and I believe they still have a lot to give”.
There’s a lack of cohesion between you and Henry. You look for each other but very often the pass doesn’t come. Do you need time?
"It’s normal. Henry changed from a place where he’d been playing for many years and now he’s adapting. He can adapt to anyone. I’m very comfortable with him and each match we play together we know each other better. He’s a very intelligent player and very creative. It’s just a matter of time”.
The 2014 World Cup is going to be held in Brazil. Do you dream of taking part?
"Yes. I can see myself playing there. I imagine myself in form and in shape. My objective is to keep my place in the Brazil team all that time and help my country win another World Cup”.
Source : FCB
Three hard-earned points
Barça have beaten Almeria 2-0 in a slow moving game.
Goals from Henry and Messi, who made his mark in the last quarter of an hour, put the balance in favour of the team who had most chances.
Playing with little vision, and possibly still tired from last week, Barça faced more problems than expected against a plucky Almeria. It’s not that the Andalucian team gave Valdés much work, but Barçá’s lack of fluidity caused some nervous moments in the stands. An opportune goal by Henry near the end of the first half took away any element of surprise, but Barça seemed to be missing Messi during the first 74 minutes. In the end, a goal from a penalty by the Argentinean star ten minutes from the end assured that the three points would stay at home.
Pressure from visitors
Unai Emery’s men began with their ideas clear. Well positioned, they put pressure on Barça’s creation zone. With few opportunities of getting the ball to Xavi or Iniesta, Barça played with patience from the back, and also fought to win the ball in their opponent’s half. Without being offered any verticality, Thierry Henry struggled to get into the game.
Henry opportunistic
Barça’s first chances came with a counter-attack which Ronaldinho played into the hands of Cobeño and two weak shots from Milito after two corners. Almeria had the game as they wanted, with Barça looking uncomfortable. The crowd also began to get impatient, whistling at the Almeria goalkeeper’s attempts to waste time.
Nervousness changed to euphoria in the 37th minute. Giovani won the ball from Almeria’s defence, and when Cobeño tried to neutralise the situation, he left Henry with a dead ball, leaving the Frenchmen to enjoy his fourth league goal (and his first in Camp Nou). The goal came as a relief to Barça, who had been unable till then to break the Andalucians’ defensive wall.
Brave Almeria
Puyol, who had been impeccable on returning to his central position, was substituted by Márquez after half time because of intestinal problems. The Mexican defender, along with Zambrotta and Touré, was back after three weeks out through injury. The game looked open, and the first chance of the second half was a missed header from Crusat (min. 50). This afternoon, Almeria have shown bravery and good footballing taste.
Enter Messi
During the second half, Barça persisted in looking for a second goal. Iniesta had the clearest chance with a shot from the edge of the area which Cobeño saved (min.62). Despite this, Barça’s imprecision continued. Rijkaard modified the midfield, bringing on Gudjohnsen for Touré Yaya. The panorama didn’t change with the Icelandic player and the next one to come on was Messí (min 74).
A calmer end
Giovani won a penalty in the 79th minute and Messí sent Cobeño the wrong way.
The 2-0 lead made the last part of the game calmer, and produced two of the best moves of the game. The first started with Henry and ended with Giovanni just missing. Straight after, a pass from Messi to Henry brought off a good save from Cobeño. These last actions left a better taste in the mouth in a victory which was more complicated than expected.
Goals :
1-0 Henry (min 37)
2-0 Messi (p) (min 79)
Source : FCB
Goals from Henry and Messi, who made his mark in the last quarter of an hour, put the balance in favour of the team who had most chances.
Playing with little vision, and possibly still tired from last week, Barça faced more problems than expected against a plucky Almeria. It’s not that the Andalucian team gave Valdés much work, but Barçá’s lack of fluidity caused some nervous moments in the stands. An opportune goal by Henry near the end of the first half took away any element of surprise, but Barça seemed to be missing Messi during the first 74 minutes. In the end, a goal from a penalty by the Argentinean star ten minutes from the end assured that the three points would stay at home.
Pressure from visitors
Unai Emery’s men began with their ideas clear. Well positioned, they put pressure on Barça’s creation zone. With few opportunities of getting the ball to Xavi or Iniesta, Barça played with patience from the back, and also fought to win the ball in their opponent’s half. Without being offered any verticality, Thierry Henry struggled to get into the game.
Henry opportunistic
Barça’s first chances came with a counter-attack which Ronaldinho played into the hands of Cobeño and two weak shots from Milito after two corners. Almeria had the game as they wanted, with Barça looking uncomfortable. The crowd also began to get impatient, whistling at the Almeria goalkeeper’s attempts to waste time.
Nervousness changed to euphoria in the 37th minute. Giovani won the ball from Almeria’s defence, and when Cobeño tried to neutralise the situation, he left Henry with a dead ball, leaving the Frenchmen to enjoy his fourth league goal (and his first in Camp Nou). The goal came as a relief to Barça, who had been unable till then to break the Andalucians’ defensive wall.
Brave Almeria
Puyol, who had been impeccable on returning to his central position, was substituted by Márquez after half time because of intestinal problems. The Mexican defender, along with Zambrotta and Touré, was back after three weeks out through injury. The game looked open, and the first chance of the second half was a missed header from Crusat (min. 50). This afternoon, Almeria have shown bravery and good footballing taste.
Enter Messi
During the second half, Barça persisted in looking for a second goal. Iniesta had the clearest chance with a shot from the edge of the area which Cobeño saved (min.62). Despite this, Barça’s imprecision continued. Rijkaard modified the midfield, bringing on Gudjohnsen for Touré Yaya. The panorama didn’t change with the Icelandic player and the next one to come on was Messí (min 74).
A calmer end
Giovani won a penalty in the 79th minute and Messí sent Cobeño the wrong way.
The 2-0 lead made the last part of the game calmer, and produced two of the best moves of the game. The first started with Henry and ended with Giovanni just missing. Straight after, a pass from Messi to Henry brought off a good save from Cobeño. These last actions left a better taste in the mouth in a victory which was more complicated than expected.
Goals :
1-0 Henry (min 37)
2-0 Messi (p) (min 79)
Source : FCB
Unrewarded superiority
Barça and Rangers played out a goalless draw at Ibrox Park. Rijkaard’s enjoyed more of the play and the most chances but were out of luck in front of goal.
Playing the ball won over the physical style employed by the Scots, but none of this was reflected on the Ibrox scoreboard. Barça ran the show in Glasgow but failed to transform any of that into goals, but did make it three Champions League games in a row without conceding a goal.
This result leaves the two sides neck and neck at the top of the group with seven points each. The two clubs meet again at the Camp Nou in a fortnight’s time.
Barça impose their style
Rijkaard had already warned about the physical approach Rangers take to their game and responded with an aggressive combination style throughout the first half, which thwarted Rangers and left them with no option other than hopeful high balls into the area.
For most of the game Rangers were held back in their own half, and Puyol, playing in the unfamiliar right back role, was more involved in attacking than defensive duties. The home side opted for long balls, but Milito and Thuram proved impenetrable at the heart of the Barça defence.
Ronaldinho hits the post
The Scots always looked dangerous from dead ball situations, but it was Ronaldinho who came closest to scoring early on with no fewer than three chances. The clearest came in the 23rd minute, when his effort struck the Rangers crossbar.
In the 40th minute, the Brazilian and Puyol both had chances off a corner, and the ball was cleared from the six yard box by a hand in the Rangers defence, but the referee failed to spot the infringement.
All out attacks
After the restart, Barça created even more pressure on a Rangers side that rarely moved out of its own half. Gudjohnsen worked well as a defensive midfielder and also led the team’s attack as they found their way deep into the Rangers half, but rarely caused excessive danger to the well-positioned Scottish defence. In fact the clearest chance was struck by Cuéllar almost into his own net, along with a Henry header that hit the post.
Rangers wake up
Barça faced the most problems in the final quarter of the half when Rangers started playing more practical football. Playing down the wings they won a series of corners, but nothing truly managed to trouble Valdés. The game ended as it had begun, 0-0, and both sides maintain strong positions at the top of Group E.
Source : FCB
Playing the ball won over the physical style employed by the Scots, but none of this was reflected on the Ibrox scoreboard. Barça ran the show in Glasgow but failed to transform any of that into goals, but did make it three Champions League games in a row without conceding a goal.
This result leaves the two sides neck and neck at the top of the group with seven points each. The two clubs meet again at the Camp Nou in a fortnight’s time.
Barça impose their style
Rijkaard had already warned about the physical approach Rangers take to their game and responded with an aggressive combination style throughout the first half, which thwarted Rangers and left them with no option other than hopeful high balls into the area.
For most of the game Rangers were held back in their own half, and Puyol, playing in the unfamiliar right back role, was more involved in attacking than defensive duties. The home side opted for long balls, but Milito and Thuram proved impenetrable at the heart of the Barça defence.
Ronaldinho hits the post
The Scots always looked dangerous from dead ball situations, but it was Ronaldinho who came closest to scoring early on with no fewer than three chances. The clearest came in the 23rd minute, when his effort struck the Rangers crossbar.
In the 40th minute, the Brazilian and Puyol both had chances off a corner, and the ball was cleared from the six yard box by a hand in the Rangers defence, but the referee failed to spot the infringement.
All out attacks
After the restart, Barça created even more pressure on a Rangers side that rarely moved out of its own half. Gudjohnsen worked well as a defensive midfielder and also led the team’s attack as they found their way deep into the Rangers half, but rarely caused excessive danger to the well-positioned Scottish defence. In fact the clearest chance was struck by Cuéllar almost into his own net, along with a Henry header that hit the post.
Rangers wake up
Barça faced the most problems in the final quarter of the half when Rangers started playing more practical football. Playing down the wings they won a series of corners, but nothing truly managed to trouble Valdés. The game ended as it had begun, 0-0, and both sides maintain strong positions at the top of Group E.
Source : FCB
Ronaldinho is back
Ronaldinho has been named in the squad to travel to Glasgow Rangers for the Champions League encounter this week.
He took part in Sunday morning training, at which Touré and Zambrotta also trained as normal...
The defeat to Villarreal behind them, Barça trained this morning at La Masia, with all thoughts on the Champions league game in Scotland. After the session, Frank Rijkaard announced his squad for the game in Glasgow, in which Ronaldinho comes in for the injured Deco.
Missing players
The first league defeat of the season has brought further bad news for Barça with Deco out injured. The Portuguese player spent the morning doing tests with the medical services. Not only Deco, but also Messi, Henry and Milito were missing, as they were instead working out in the gym with Márquez, all concentrating on physical problems.
Touré and Zambrotta back to normal
The positive note were the returns of both Touré Yaya and Gianluca Zambrotta to normal training. The players that played on Saturday evening only did a gentle warm-down routine, while the other players including Touré and Zambrotta, did a series of circuits and ended up taking shots at Jorquera.
The full squad :
Valdés, Jorquera, Iniesta, Ronaldinho, Puyol, Messi, Thuram, Sylvinho, Xavi, Oleguer, Abidal, Milito, Henry, Ezquerro, Gudjohnsen, Giovani, Bojan and Crosas.
Source : FCB
He took part in Sunday morning training, at which Touré and Zambrotta also trained as normal...
The defeat to Villarreal behind them, Barça trained this morning at La Masia, with all thoughts on the Champions league game in Scotland. After the session, Frank Rijkaard announced his squad for the game in Glasgow, in which Ronaldinho comes in for the injured Deco.
Missing players
The first league defeat of the season has brought further bad news for Barça with Deco out injured. The Portuguese player spent the morning doing tests with the medical services. Not only Deco, but also Messi, Henry and Milito were missing, as they were instead working out in the gym with Márquez, all concentrating on physical problems.
Touré and Zambrotta back to normal
The positive note were the returns of both Touré Yaya and Gianluca Zambrotta to normal training. The players that played on Saturday evening only did a gentle warm-down routine, while the other players including Touré and Zambrotta, did a series of circuits and ended up taking shots at Jorquera.
The full squad :
Valdés, Jorquera, Iniesta, Ronaldinho, Puyol, Messi, Thuram, Sylvinho, Xavi, Oleguer, Abidal, Milito, Henry, Ezquerro, Gudjohnsen, Giovani, Bojan and Crosas.
Source : FCB
Brazil scramble draw in Colombia
Colombia and Brazil kicked off their 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa™ qualifying campaigns with a 0-0 draw in Bogota on Sunday.
The only team to have played at all 18 editions of the FIFA World Cup, Brazil are likely to be happier with the point given that they failed to play the free-flowing football for which they have become renowned.
Despite making wholesale changes from their Copa America Venezuela 2007 squad and fielding an inexperienced team, Colombia had most of the pressure and Brazil became less adventurous as the game went on.
The match kicked off 45 minutes late after a torrential downpour left puddles on the pitch but the water drained away quickly.
Backed by a passionate crowd at the El Campin stadium, Colombia took the game to Brazil and Radamel Falcao went close after a well-worked move from a free-kick in the third minute.
Colombia striker Wason Renteria twice forced Brazil goalkeeper Julio Cesar to make difficult saves from headers before the break.
Brazil's best first-half effort came when Ronaldinho had a shot from a narrow angle turned around the post by Agustin Julio.
Colombia continued to press forward after half-time and Julio Cesar was forced to parry a long-range shot from substitute Freddy Grisales.
Aldo Ramirez also tested the goalkeeper with a low drive, but Colombia were unable to find their way past a packed Brazil defence.
Midfielder Mineiro had Brazil's only second half scoring chance when his 25-metre drive was turned away by Julio.
Source : FIFA
The only team to have played at all 18 editions of the FIFA World Cup, Brazil are likely to be happier with the point given that they failed to play the free-flowing football for which they have become renowned.
Despite making wholesale changes from their Copa America Venezuela 2007 squad and fielding an inexperienced team, Colombia had most of the pressure and Brazil became less adventurous as the game went on.
The match kicked off 45 minutes late after a torrential downpour left puddles on the pitch but the water drained away quickly.
Backed by a passionate crowd at the El Campin stadium, Colombia took the game to Brazil and Radamel Falcao went close after a well-worked move from a free-kick in the third minute.
Colombia striker Wason Renteria twice forced Brazil goalkeeper Julio Cesar to make difficult saves from headers before the break.
Brazil's best first-half effort came when Ronaldinho had a shot from a narrow angle turned around the post by Agustin Julio.
Colombia continued to press forward after half-time and Julio Cesar was forced to parry a long-range shot from substitute Freddy Grisales.
Aldo Ramirez also tested the goalkeeper with a low drive, but Colombia were unable to find their way past a packed Brazil defence.
Midfielder Mineiro had Brazil's only second half scoring chance when his 25-metre drive was turned away by Julio.
Source : FIFA
Barça continue unbeaten against Atlético
FC Barcelona extended their unbeaten start to the new season to nine matches as they beat Atlético de Madrid thanks to goals from Deco, Lionel Messi and Xavi in Camp Nou on Sunday.
The build up the encounter focussed on the two sides that were seen as the in-form teams in the top flight as they both went in search of another win....
Despite a bright opening by Atlético though, it was Barça that stretched their run of consecutive victories to six matches as they ended up as comfortable winners. Three goals capped a confident display in a game that saw Frank Rijkaard's side dictate the pace of play throughout and never really allowed the visitors to create many clear chances to worry Víctor Valdés.
A decisive mistake
In the opening minutes, Atlético's strategy of trying to deny the Blaugana any time or space in which to play looked to be working as they hastled and harried from the start and looked dangerous going forward. Then, in the 15th minute a mistake by Chrsitian Abbiati undid all their good work and allowed Barça to take the lead. Messi cut back inside Mariano Pernía on the right flank before sending a low pass into the area. Abbiati looked set to comfortably collect, but the Italian spilled the ball and Deco was on hand to tuck home from close range.
Ronaldinho and Messi produce the second
Having broken the deadlock, Barça's spirits began to lift and they began to enjoy the game and they added a second goal just five minutes later. Thierry Henry rolled the ball back for Messi who made a sudden surge forward and, after a neat interchange with Ronaldinho, was able to take aim and guide the ball across the keeper and into the far corner of the net.
The rhythm of the game was set by the home team and they continued to attack, but the urgency had gone after giving themselves a two-goal cushion and they were able to stroke the ball around. Seven minutes before the break, Ronaldinho was given a golden chance to add a third when Messi's pass along the area was nudged on by Deco, but as the Brazilian met the ball on the left he fired it wide of the near post. Messi then fired a shot straight at Abbiati after receiving the ball on the right of the area thanks to a fine piece of skill from Ronaldinho, who had lifted a pass over the Atlético defence.
A flawless defence
At the start of the second half, the home team almost added a third as Deco forced Abbiati into a save as he drove goalwards, before Gabi Milito was thwarted from close range by Abbiati after Henry's ball had picked out the defender at the bear post. It was not until the 64th minute that Valdés tasted his first action of the period when Maxi Rodríguez's shot looked bound for the top corner only for the Catalan keeper to make a flying save to tip it away. Simão then looked to lob the Catalan keeper from close range, only to see his effort drift wide of the far post. Carles Puyol had an inspiring game at the back as he made several fierce challenges to keep the danger away.
Third strike
There was time for a sudden upturn in pace by the hosts as Deco again tested Abbiati before he set up Messi who saw his effort turned onto the post by the keeper. In the final minute there was some icing added to Barça's cake when Deco and Messi exchanged passes before the Portuguese international slotted the ball down the left for Dos Santos whose first time pass across goal was met by Xavi to put Barça three goals ahead.
Goals :
1-0 Deco (min 15)
2-0 Messi (min 19)
3-0 Xavi (min 89)
Fuente : FCB
The build up the encounter focussed on the two sides that were seen as the in-form teams in the top flight as they both went in search of another win....
Despite a bright opening by Atlético though, it was Barça that stretched their run of consecutive victories to six matches as they ended up as comfortable winners. Three goals capped a confident display in a game that saw Frank Rijkaard's side dictate the pace of play throughout and never really allowed the visitors to create many clear chances to worry Víctor Valdés.
A decisive mistake
In the opening minutes, Atlético's strategy of trying to deny the Blaugana any time or space in which to play looked to be working as they hastled and harried from the start and looked dangerous going forward. Then, in the 15th minute a mistake by Chrsitian Abbiati undid all their good work and allowed Barça to take the lead. Messi cut back inside Mariano Pernía on the right flank before sending a low pass into the area. Abbiati looked set to comfortably collect, but the Italian spilled the ball and Deco was on hand to tuck home from close range.
Ronaldinho and Messi produce the second
Having broken the deadlock, Barça's spirits began to lift and they began to enjoy the game and they added a second goal just five minutes later. Thierry Henry rolled the ball back for Messi who made a sudden surge forward and, after a neat interchange with Ronaldinho, was able to take aim and guide the ball across the keeper and into the far corner of the net.
The rhythm of the game was set by the home team and they continued to attack, but the urgency had gone after giving themselves a two-goal cushion and they were able to stroke the ball around. Seven minutes before the break, Ronaldinho was given a golden chance to add a third when Messi's pass along the area was nudged on by Deco, but as the Brazilian met the ball on the left he fired it wide of the near post. Messi then fired a shot straight at Abbiati after receiving the ball on the right of the area thanks to a fine piece of skill from Ronaldinho, who had lifted a pass over the Atlético defence.
A flawless defence
At the start of the second half, the home team almost added a third as Deco forced Abbiati into a save as he drove goalwards, before Gabi Milito was thwarted from close range by Abbiati after Henry's ball had picked out the defender at the bear post. It was not until the 64th minute that Valdés tasted his first action of the period when Maxi Rodríguez's shot looked bound for the top corner only for the Catalan keeper to make a flying save to tip it away. Simão then looked to lob the Catalan keeper from close range, only to see his effort drift wide of the far post. Carles Puyol had an inspiring game at the back as he made several fierce challenges to keep the danger away.
Third strike
There was time for a sudden upturn in pace by the hosts as Deco again tested Abbiati before he set up Messi who saw his effort turned onto the post by the keeper. In the final minute there was some icing added to Barça's cake when Deco and Messi exchanged passes before the Portuguese international slotted the ball down the left for Dos Santos whose first time pass across goal was met by Xavi to put Barça three goals ahead.
Goals :
1-0 Deco (min 15)
2-0 Messi (min 19)
3-0 Xavi (min 89)
Fuente : FCB
Barça’s winning streak continues
Goals from Puyol and Messi brought Barça a crucial victory in Stuttgart in the second round of matches in Champions League Group E. Barça now have six points out six, as do co-leaders Glasgow Rangers, who won in Lyon.
Barça are impressing both at home and abroad. From start to finish this was the kind of football we like to see from the team, and only for a few spells in the first half were Stuttgart able to produce anything of major concern.
Puyol left the pitch early with an injury, but not before he had opened the Barça account, while Leo Messi was on the end of a Henry assist to make it two.
That makes for five wins out of five in all competitions, and if Barça can keep this kind of form up, then there will be a lot to enjoy this season. But injuries are once again putting a dampener on the proceedings, and both Márquez and Puyol were withdrawn with injuries tonight.
Lively start
A shot onto the post by Deco and the early injury to Márquez, who was replaced by Puyol after just 7 minutes, set things up for a dramatic opening period. Barça conjured up a series of delightful combination plays to confound the German midfield and create chance after chance, leaving Stuttgart with no option but to try to keep things as tight as possible at the back.
Ronaldinho, back to his old self in the playmaker role, supplied numerous danger-balls to Messi (min 21) and Henry (min 24), but Schäfer always seemed to be on hand to intervene. Barça were on top, but that lethal touch in front of goal just wasn’t appearing.
Valdés keeps the sheet clean
The game was over half an hour old before Stuttgart finally decided the time had come to launch an attack, and almost got away with it. Mario Gómez had two golden opportunities within a second, but the first struck the bar and second was parried away on the line by a lightning quick Valdés. Ten minutes later, and Stuttgart were at it again, and once more Valdes was the saviour. All of a sudden, the control of the game seemed to have switched to the home side, and the half time break could not have come at a better time.
Puyol scores and goes off
Puyol was the focus of all attention after the restart. He broke the deadlock when pouncing on the end of a Schäfer clearance from a powerful header by Ronaldinho in the 52nd minute. But minutes later, the Barça captain fell awkwardly and asked to be replaced. It was the second forced substitution of the night, and will come as huge frustration to a player that has only just returned from a three-month absence with a leg injury.
A joy to watch
Barça were forced to play an unorthodox back four, but despite several players being in unfamiliar positions, they got the job done in remarkably professional fashion. Messi added the second thanks to an impeccable pass from the by-line by Thierry Henry. That was in the 65th minute, and the next ten minutes or so saw a series of superlative moves from Barça that proved just why this team is so hotly tipped to do well in this year’s Champions League.
For Stuttgart, it was a case of pressing forward in the forlorn hope of salvaging something from a game that was looking increasingly like a lost cause. And indeed it was Barça who enjoyed the last big chance of the night when substitute Bojan broke through one on one with Schäfer deep into injury time, but the German keeper just got his fingertips to the ball to turn it wide for a corner.
It all ended with Barça convincing victors 2-0, and next up is a trip to Glasgow in three weeks time to face a side that currently shares the lead with Barça after Rangers caused the shock of the evening by coming away from Lyon with an emphatic 3-0 win.
The goals :
0-1, min. 52' Puyol
0-2, min. 67' Messi
Fuente : FCB
Barça are impressing both at home and abroad. From start to finish this was the kind of football we like to see from the team, and only for a few spells in the first half were Stuttgart able to produce anything of major concern.
Puyol left the pitch early with an injury, but not before he had opened the Barça account, while Leo Messi was on the end of a Henry assist to make it two.
That makes for five wins out of five in all competitions, and if Barça can keep this kind of form up, then there will be a lot to enjoy this season. But injuries are once again putting a dampener on the proceedings, and both Márquez and Puyol were withdrawn with injuries tonight.
Lively start
A shot onto the post by Deco and the early injury to Márquez, who was replaced by Puyol after just 7 minutes, set things up for a dramatic opening period. Barça conjured up a series of delightful combination plays to confound the German midfield and create chance after chance, leaving Stuttgart with no option but to try to keep things as tight as possible at the back.
Ronaldinho, back to his old self in the playmaker role, supplied numerous danger-balls to Messi (min 21) and Henry (min 24), but Schäfer always seemed to be on hand to intervene. Barça were on top, but that lethal touch in front of goal just wasn’t appearing.
Valdés keeps the sheet clean
The game was over half an hour old before Stuttgart finally decided the time had come to launch an attack, and almost got away with it. Mario Gómez had two golden opportunities within a second, but the first struck the bar and second was parried away on the line by a lightning quick Valdés. Ten minutes later, and Stuttgart were at it again, and once more Valdes was the saviour. All of a sudden, the control of the game seemed to have switched to the home side, and the half time break could not have come at a better time.
Puyol scores and goes off
Puyol was the focus of all attention after the restart. He broke the deadlock when pouncing on the end of a Schäfer clearance from a powerful header by Ronaldinho in the 52nd minute. But minutes later, the Barça captain fell awkwardly and asked to be replaced. It was the second forced substitution of the night, and will come as huge frustration to a player that has only just returned from a three-month absence with a leg injury.
A joy to watch
Barça were forced to play an unorthodox back four, but despite several players being in unfamiliar positions, they got the job done in remarkably professional fashion. Messi added the second thanks to an impeccable pass from the by-line by Thierry Henry. That was in the 65th minute, and the next ten minutes or so saw a series of superlative moves from Barça that proved just why this team is so hotly tipped to do well in this year’s Champions League.
For Stuttgart, it was a case of pressing forward in the forlorn hope of salvaging something from a game that was looking increasingly like a lost cause. And indeed it was Barça who enjoyed the last big chance of the night when substitute Bojan broke through one on one with Schäfer deep into injury time, but the German keeper just got his fingertips to the ball to turn it wide for a corner.
It all ended with Barça convincing victors 2-0, and next up is a trip to Glasgow in three weeks time to face a side that currently shares the lead with Barça after Rangers caused the shock of the evening by coming away from Lyon with an emphatic 3-0 win.
The goals :
0-1, min. 52' Puyol
0-2, min. 67' Messi
Fuente : FCB
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