The game of soccer has seen many players with the same first or last name throughout its history. Some of them were separated by a generation, others stood shoulder to shoulder on the soccer pitch! Sure, the Peles, Coles, Keegans and Nevilles immediately come to mind, but the three Ronaldo’s of world soccer hold centre stage when it comes to common names!
The mid 1990s and early 2000s saw Brazilian striker Ronaldo Luís Nazário de Lima reigning as the superstar of soccer. Regarded as the best player in the world, he has the honor of being the only other player besides Zinédine Zidane to have won three FIFA Player of the Year awards. Remembered as ‘O Fenômeno’ or The Phenomenon for his goal scoring ability, Ronaldo made the number nine soccer shirt famous and synonymous with a centre forward position.
An integral player in the Brazilian team that won the 1994 and 2002 World Cups, Ronaldo went on to break Gerd Müller's world record of fourteen goals by scoring his fifteenth goal during the 2006 World Cup, making him the highest scorer in World Cup history! With 97 appearances in international matches, Ronaldo has 62 goals to his credit and happens to be just 15 goals away from the Brazilian national record! Countryman and soccer legend, Pele, included Ronaldo in his list of FIFA’s 100 greatest footballers ever. Ironically, though ‘The Phenomenon’ is Cristiano Ronaldo’s idol, the young Portuguese footballer’s name comes to the new generation’s mind when they hear the name Ronaldo!
Cristiano Ronaldo dos Santos Aveiro, named after his parent’s admiration for former American president, Ronald Reagan, joined Sporting Lisbon around the time Brazil’s Ronaldo was claiming his third FIFA World Player award! That too, after helping his country win their fifth World Cup title. As for the young Ronaldo, he was picked up by Manchester United’s manager, Sir Alex Ferguson. Sadly enough, the older of the two Ronaldo's faced some grievous injuries that saw his career go downhill... Meanwhile, young Ronaldo’s career began to peak and he picked up his first FIFA World Player award. Today, the young dynamo has the distinction of being the most expensive and highest paid player in the history of soccer with a £80 million transfer to Real Madrid!
While we’re talking about Ronaldo’s let’s not forget another superstar in his own right, Brazil’s Ronaldinho, whose real name is Ronaldo de Assis Moreira! Born on the 21st of March in 1980, he was nicknamed Ronaldinho or Ronaldinho Gaúcho to distinguish him from senior Ronaldo! Who, by the way, was already known as ‘Ronaldinho’ in Brazil, that’s why the Gaucho had to be added! Getting confusing, isn’t it?! Anyway, when senior Ronaldo moved to Europe he went by his first name, and Ronaldinho dropped ‘Gaúcho’ from his nickname and became simply Ronaldinho! If it was confusing earlier, don’t know what this is?!
Ronaldinho, also an extremely prolific goal scorer, is recognized as one of the best footballers of his generation. Winning his first Champions League in the year 2006, he soon became a Spanish citizen. Though he had his first taste of fame at thirteen when he scored as many as 23 goals in a 23:0 win against a local team! Proudly wearing their youth soccer uniforms, the U-17 Brazil team won the 1997 World Championship at Egypt, where Ronaldinho was discovered as a rising star, someone to watch out for. He went on to score two goals in the tournament!
Given that Cristiano Ronaldo and Ronaldinho were just starting their careers when Ronaldo was at the peak of his career, it would be a shame if the next generation were to forget the older Ronaldo’s contribution to this game... For some of us, he will always be lovingly remembered as R9, The Phenomenon that he certainly was...
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The Hope That Soccer Brings
The Confederations Cup recently played in South Africa brought some great, exhilarating moments of soccer to the African continent and the world. If it served as a perfect recce for the 2010 FIFA World Cup, it also made some young dreams come true. After all, soccer is a game of hope, a democratic religion that transcends all barriers. The perfect vehicle for change…
During the Confed Cup the Under 17 team, SuperSport United, had the privilege of playing none other than Brazil! These young footballers couldn’t believe their eyes when they ran onto the field side by side their soccer idols. Brazil’s reserve squad wearing their customary training gear were marked by the Under 17’s in their youth soccer jerseys. It was a seemingly impossible dream come true for these boys, who took this light practice match seriously. After all, Brazil's reserve squad were soccer stars in their own right, with Alexandre Pato and Julio Baptista to name a few! Luckily, the Brazilians went easy on the local boys, scoring three goals in 30 minutes before calling it a day! What was a simple training match for Brazil turned out to be an opportunity of a lifetime for these Under 17’s, who usually get to see their soccer idols from a distance, that too, if they’re lucky, let alone play with them on the same pitch! Some of the youngsters are so motivated, they’re all set to work hard in the hope that they get a chance to play against these soccer stars in the 2014 World Cup at Brazil! You never know, there’s always hope when it comes to soccer…
As Khoza, Chairman of the 2010 FIFA World Cup Organising Committee South Africa, said while inaugurating the Football for Hope Forum, “Football rewards talent and skill, regardless of class or status. In football, all that counts is performance on the field. It matters not if a player is rich or poor. It matters not if a player is tall or short. It matters only who performs on the field. In football, nobody is excluded - everybody is included. In football, hope lives. Hope is never extinguished. In football, nothing is impossible. Everything is possible”. The Forum, held during the Confederations Cup, brought together development institutions and global organisations to address issues like HIV and Aids education in South Africa, landmines in Cambodia, homelessness in England and ethnic conflict in Bosnia-Herzegovina. The idea is to use soccer as a platform for hope and action, with an aim to ensure sustainable living for everyone.
The Football for Hope Forum highlights the fact that soccer has the potential to change the world for the better. As it did for fifteen youngsters who represented South Africa at a youth football tournament in Norway. The chosen ones were mostly orphans who were once taking drugs and living on the streets before they were taken in by SA Cares for Life and taught to play soccer. Called the Lesedi Strikers, this young team was excited about flying and going overseas for the first time.
Around 30,000 children from around the world are expected to attend this youth tournament. Managing Director of SA Cares for Life, Riekie van den Berg, described the tour as life changing for the 15-strong team, "You can see that soccer can change lives and the whole community is behind them and the World Cup is definitely a big part of this, everyone is going soccer mad now”. Surely enough, these kids wore their youth soccer uniforms with great pride and showcased their soccer skills and country’s rich culture to the rest of the world. Read More!
During the Confed Cup the Under 17 team, SuperSport United, had the privilege of playing none other than Brazil! These young footballers couldn’t believe their eyes when they ran onto the field side by side their soccer idols. Brazil’s reserve squad wearing their customary training gear were marked by the Under 17’s in their youth soccer jerseys. It was a seemingly impossible dream come true for these boys, who took this light practice match seriously. After all, Brazil's reserve squad were soccer stars in their own right, with Alexandre Pato and Julio Baptista to name a few! Luckily, the Brazilians went easy on the local boys, scoring three goals in 30 minutes before calling it a day! What was a simple training match for Brazil turned out to be an opportunity of a lifetime for these Under 17’s, who usually get to see their soccer idols from a distance, that too, if they’re lucky, let alone play with them on the same pitch! Some of the youngsters are so motivated, they’re all set to work hard in the hope that they get a chance to play against these soccer stars in the 2014 World Cup at Brazil! You never know, there’s always hope when it comes to soccer…
As Khoza, Chairman of the 2010 FIFA World Cup Organising Committee South Africa, said while inaugurating the Football for Hope Forum, “Football rewards talent and skill, regardless of class or status. In football, all that counts is performance on the field. It matters not if a player is rich or poor. It matters not if a player is tall or short. It matters only who performs on the field. In football, nobody is excluded - everybody is included. In football, hope lives. Hope is never extinguished. In football, nothing is impossible. Everything is possible”. The Forum, held during the Confederations Cup, brought together development institutions and global organisations to address issues like HIV and Aids education in South Africa, landmines in Cambodia, homelessness in England and ethnic conflict in Bosnia-Herzegovina. The idea is to use soccer as a platform for hope and action, with an aim to ensure sustainable living for everyone.
The Football for Hope Forum highlights the fact that soccer has the potential to change the world for the better. As it did for fifteen youngsters who represented South Africa at a youth football tournament in Norway. The chosen ones were mostly orphans who were once taking drugs and living on the streets before they were taken in by SA Cares for Life and taught to play soccer. Called the Lesedi Strikers, this young team was excited about flying and going overseas for the first time.
Around 30,000 children from around the world are expected to attend this youth tournament. Managing Director of SA Cares for Life, Riekie van den Berg, described the tour as life changing for the 15-strong team, "You can see that soccer can change lives and the whole community is behind them and the World Cup is definitely a big part of this, everyone is going soccer mad now”. Surely enough, these kids wore their youth soccer uniforms with great pride and showcased their soccer skills and country’s rich culture to the rest of the world. Read More!
Champions League action gets exciting.
It is getting close to the kick off in the leagues all across Europe and that means that the Champions League action is about to get exciting too. Next week sees the first leg of the third round qualifiers taking place and there are some big names taking to the field in the hope of making the group stages.
There are some soccer kits that stand out from the crowd and lovers of green and white hoops are in for a thrill in the third round of the Champions League. The most famous club to wear the green and white hoops soccer kit are Celtic from Scotland and they will be joined in this round by Sporting Lisbon from Portugal. These two teams have clashed in the past with a need for a change soccer jersey taking place but in this round they have been kept apart.
Celtic will be lining up against Dynamo Moscow in the hope that they can repeat their qualification knockout of Spartak Moscow from two years ago. A deserved 1-1 draw in Moscow was followed by a 1-1 draw at Parkhead and it took penalties to separate the two sides. The hero of the hour was Artur Boruc in the goalkeeper jersey, saving from the spot and guaranteeing Celtic their Champions League windfall. If the club are to make it through to the group stages this season they will need the Polish stopper to be back to his sparkling best.
The other green and white soccer kit will welcome FC Twente from Holland to Lisbon in another match that could go either way. Steve McLaren has managed to bounce back from ridicule as England manager and has performed a good job in the Dutch top flight. The Portuguese team will start the favourites to get through this round but with home advantage, FC Twente will be hopeful of upsetting the odds. As long as Steve McLaren doesn’t speak in that terrible Dutch accent again, then they have every chance.
Whoever progresses from this round shouldn’t think that their work is done and start placing the Champions League patches on their new soccer uniforms for 2009/10 as there is still one more qualifying round to go and there are some big names lying in store. Arsenal, Lyon, Shahktar Donetsk and Stuttgart are some of the teams who will be competing in the final knock out round for this seasons Champions League which is sure to be of great interest to all. The fans of the teams involved will be wearing their replica jerseys and praying for the best result but fans of those who have already booked their spot in the group stages will be able to watch on in a relaxed manner. There are some fans who are annoyed at the way the Champions League is being restructured in order to make the big clubs more secure in the qualification but there are sure to be one or two teams who slip through the net and cause an upset. No matter how much the big teams spend, there will always be a team or two to give them a bloody nose and the 2009/10 Champions League will not be any different. Read More!
There are some soccer kits that stand out from the crowd and lovers of green and white hoops are in for a thrill in the third round of the Champions League. The most famous club to wear the green and white hoops soccer kit are Celtic from Scotland and they will be joined in this round by Sporting Lisbon from Portugal. These two teams have clashed in the past with a need for a change soccer jersey taking place but in this round they have been kept apart.
Celtic will be lining up against Dynamo Moscow in the hope that they can repeat their qualification knockout of Spartak Moscow from two years ago. A deserved 1-1 draw in Moscow was followed by a 1-1 draw at Parkhead and it took penalties to separate the two sides. The hero of the hour was Artur Boruc in the goalkeeper jersey, saving from the spot and guaranteeing Celtic their Champions League windfall. If the club are to make it through to the group stages this season they will need the Polish stopper to be back to his sparkling best.
The other green and white soccer kit will welcome FC Twente from Holland to Lisbon in another match that could go either way. Steve McLaren has managed to bounce back from ridicule as England manager and has performed a good job in the Dutch top flight. The Portuguese team will start the favourites to get through this round but with home advantage, FC Twente will be hopeful of upsetting the odds. As long as Steve McLaren doesn’t speak in that terrible Dutch accent again, then they have every chance.
Whoever progresses from this round shouldn’t think that their work is done and start placing the Champions League patches on their new soccer uniforms for 2009/10 as there is still one more qualifying round to go and there are some big names lying in store. Arsenal, Lyon, Shahktar Donetsk and Stuttgart are some of the teams who will be competing in the final knock out round for this seasons Champions League which is sure to be of great interest to all. The fans of the teams involved will be wearing their replica jerseys and praying for the best result but fans of those who have already booked their spot in the group stages will be able to watch on in a relaxed manner. There are some fans who are annoyed at the way the Champions League is being restructured in order to make the big clubs more secure in the qualification but there are sure to be one or two teams who slip through the net and cause an upset. No matter how much the big teams spend, there will always be a team or two to give them a bloody nose and the 2009/10 Champions League will not be any different. Read More!
Brazil to Host The 2014 World Cup!
It’s official. The futebol crazy and highly skilled country of Brazil has been confirmed by FIFA as the host nation for the 2014 World Cup. Celebrations broke out across cities as Brazil’s dream of hosting the entire footballing world became a reality! Fans took to the streets doing the samba until it resembled a sea of dancing green and yellow soccer jerseys! The year 2014 may be far, but you can be sure it’ll be a World Cup generations will remember. This one will surely be nostalgia and history in the making!
As FIFA’s President, Joseph S. Blatter, announced each of Brazil’s twelve host cities for the 2014 World Cup, spontaneous scenes of euphoria broke out in the mentioned cities! Across the nation, thousands and thousands of fans gathered in front of big screens waving the Brazilian flag. At some stadiums the national anthem was performed, while at others it was time for some samba reggae! If fireworks lit up the sky in a to-be host city, 40,000 green and white balloons gently flitted heavenward, in another. Patriotic fervor blended with a passionate love for the sport as fans painted stadiums yellow in their football jerseys! Soon, the party spilt out onto the streets where in true Brazilian style, music and dance held sway.
Brazil will have the honor of hosting the ultimate football event across the globe after a gap of 64 years; 64 years that saw Brazil contribute some of the finest moments and biggest legends in the history of football. This five time World Cup champion is already gearing itself up for the big event. Ricardo Teixeira, President of the Local Organizing Committee of the 2014 FIFA World Cup, delighted 190 million inhabitants when he called each one a winner and declared there will be many reasons to celebrate over the next five years! But he was also at pains to remind the people of the country that, “the 2014 World Cup is only just starting and all we have done is pass the entrance examination. We have five whole years ahead of us before we can graduate."
The last time Brazil hosted the tournament was back in 1950, when it lost the finals against Uruguay. Brazil’s selection makes it the fifth country to have ever hosted the football World Cup twice. With 500,000 fans expected in 2014, the cost of constructing and remodeling stadiums is pegged at more than $1.1 billion! In addition, millions will go into building modern infrastructure, including $2.46 billion towards upgrading its airports.
Ricardo Teixeira, President of the Football Confederation, pertinently pointed out that, "The World Cup goes far beyond a mere sporting event. It's going to be an interesting tool to promote social transformation." With thousands of tourists landing up in Brazil for the grandest of football events in 2014, the government has its work cut out – to showcase each of the 12 host cities with a view to boost tourism and investment. After all, with Brazil's natural beauty, vibrant city life, and phenomenal flair for football, the 20th World Cup promises to a fine football festival! Until then, get ready to enjoy the Brazilian team take centre stage in their World Cup soccer uniforms at South Africa next year! There’s another party to attend before the Brazilian samba takes over! Read More!
As FIFA’s President, Joseph S. Blatter, announced each of Brazil’s twelve host cities for the 2014 World Cup, spontaneous scenes of euphoria broke out in the mentioned cities! Across the nation, thousands and thousands of fans gathered in front of big screens waving the Brazilian flag. At some stadiums the national anthem was performed, while at others it was time for some samba reggae! If fireworks lit up the sky in a to-be host city, 40,000 green and white balloons gently flitted heavenward, in another. Patriotic fervor blended with a passionate love for the sport as fans painted stadiums yellow in their football jerseys! Soon, the party spilt out onto the streets where in true Brazilian style, music and dance held sway.
Brazil will have the honor of hosting the ultimate football event across the globe after a gap of 64 years; 64 years that saw Brazil contribute some of the finest moments and biggest legends in the history of football. This five time World Cup champion is already gearing itself up for the big event. Ricardo Teixeira, President of the Local Organizing Committee of the 2014 FIFA World Cup, delighted 190 million inhabitants when he called each one a winner and declared there will be many reasons to celebrate over the next five years! But he was also at pains to remind the people of the country that, “the 2014 World Cup is only just starting and all we have done is pass the entrance examination. We have five whole years ahead of us before we can graduate."
The last time Brazil hosted the tournament was back in 1950, when it lost the finals against Uruguay. Brazil’s selection makes it the fifth country to have ever hosted the football World Cup twice. With 500,000 fans expected in 2014, the cost of constructing and remodeling stadiums is pegged at more than $1.1 billion! In addition, millions will go into building modern infrastructure, including $2.46 billion towards upgrading its airports.
Ricardo Teixeira, President of the Football Confederation, pertinently pointed out that, "The World Cup goes far beyond a mere sporting event. It's going to be an interesting tool to promote social transformation." With thousands of tourists landing up in Brazil for the grandest of football events in 2014, the government has its work cut out – to showcase each of the 12 host cities with a view to boost tourism and investment. After all, with Brazil's natural beauty, vibrant city life, and phenomenal flair for football, the 20th World Cup promises to a fine football festival! Until then, get ready to enjoy the Brazilian team take centre stage in their World Cup soccer uniforms at South Africa next year! There’s another party to attend before the Brazilian samba takes over! Read More!
Soccer Stars and Their Superstitions
Most of us are superstitious about small little things. But when the stakes are big, the superstitions become bigger! Our favorite soccer players are no different. They are known to have their idiosyncrasies when it comes to the numbers on their soccer shirts to which socks they put on first! Their superstitions verge on the weird to the harmless, from the unbelievable to the cute! Let’s take a look at some famous ones who are (in)famous for their strange ones!
The absolute winner has to be Argentinean goalkeeper Sergio Goycochea. Not only is he remembered for his heroic penalty shot saves back in 1990, but also for his superstition that peeing in the centre of the pitch is lucky for the team before shootouts! So, his team mates obliged by building a circle around him, blocking him from view while he did his job! During the 1993 Copa America, Goycochea repeated this ritual prior to penalty shootouts while playing against Brazil and Colombia! And Argentina went on to win the competition!
If the earlier superstition led a team to victory, this next one almost caused a diplomatic disaster! Luis Aragonés, Spain’s ex-coach, disliked the color yellow to such an extent, he once made captain Raul change the yellow jersey he’d worn for training! And that’s not all! It’s said that during his career, his team went to Germany for a competition, and on arrival they were welcomed with a bouquet of yellow flowers, which the coach refused to accept!
Italian Giovanni Trapattoni, who coached the Republic of Ireland, Germany, Austria, Portugal as well as his home team, was often seen sprinkling holy water given to him by his sister, who’s a nun! But he made sure to sprinkle it only on his part of the field! Another Italian, Gennaro Gattuso of AC Milan, went to such extremes during the 2006 FIFA World Cup that he wore the same sweater right through the competition! He admits it put him in the foulest of moods since he was sweating buckets, but still couldn't get himself to take the sweater off! And if that’s not enough, this midfielder would read a few pages of Dostoevsky before each game! This too developed into a superstition he found hard to break, just in case...
Leeds United ex-manager Don Revie was superstitious about a particular suit and made it a point to wear it to every game until his team lost while he had it on! English defender Gary Neville admits wearing the same shoes, belt, aftershave all season long! If he’s on a winning streak, he refuses to change his boots! Even Chelsea’s superstar Frank Lampard confesses that he has his share of superstitions such as listening to the same music on the way to the stadium!
Getting back to another former Argentinean coach, Carlos Bilardo, not only did he wear a lucky tie, he also carried a statuette of the Virgin Mary to all games. And he banned his players from consuming chicken since he believed it brought bad luck! Bilardo had a weird habit of linking unrelated things to victories! His team’s bus broke down once and they had to take taxis to get to the game on time. They went on to win that game and from that day on, Bilardo made his players arrive for games in taxis! He even made his 22 players file past a bride on her wedding day and shake hands with her one by one during the 1986 World Cup! Why?! Brides bring luck, that’s why! The very next day, Maradona, who was equally superstitious about wearing the number 10 soccer uniform, led Argentina to victory against Brazil! Now, can you deny a man his superstition if it resulted in Brazil’s defeat?! Read More!
The absolute winner has to be Argentinean goalkeeper Sergio Goycochea. Not only is he remembered for his heroic penalty shot saves back in 1990, but also for his superstition that peeing in the centre of the pitch is lucky for the team before shootouts! So, his team mates obliged by building a circle around him, blocking him from view while he did his job! During the 1993 Copa America, Goycochea repeated this ritual prior to penalty shootouts while playing against Brazil and Colombia! And Argentina went on to win the competition!
If the earlier superstition led a team to victory, this next one almost caused a diplomatic disaster! Luis Aragonés, Spain’s ex-coach, disliked the color yellow to such an extent, he once made captain Raul change the yellow jersey he’d worn for training! And that’s not all! It’s said that during his career, his team went to Germany for a competition, and on arrival they were welcomed with a bouquet of yellow flowers, which the coach refused to accept!
Italian Giovanni Trapattoni, who coached the Republic of Ireland, Germany, Austria, Portugal as well as his home team, was often seen sprinkling holy water given to him by his sister, who’s a nun! But he made sure to sprinkle it only on his part of the field! Another Italian, Gennaro Gattuso of AC Milan, went to such extremes during the 2006 FIFA World Cup that he wore the same sweater right through the competition! He admits it put him in the foulest of moods since he was sweating buckets, but still couldn't get himself to take the sweater off! And if that’s not enough, this midfielder would read a few pages of Dostoevsky before each game! This too developed into a superstition he found hard to break, just in case...
Leeds United ex-manager Don Revie was superstitious about a particular suit and made it a point to wear it to every game until his team lost while he had it on! English defender Gary Neville admits wearing the same shoes, belt, aftershave all season long! If he’s on a winning streak, he refuses to change his boots! Even Chelsea’s superstar Frank Lampard confesses that he has his share of superstitions such as listening to the same music on the way to the stadium!
Getting back to another former Argentinean coach, Carlos Bilardo, not only did he wear a lucky tie, he also carried a statuette of the Virgin Mary to all games. And he banned his players from consuming chicken since he believed it brought bad luck! Bilardo had a weird habit of linking unrelated things to victories! His team’s bus broke down once and they had to take taxis to get to the game on time. They went on to win that game and from that day on, Bilardo made his players arrive for games in taxis! He even made his 22 players file past a bride on her wedding day and shake hands with her one by one during the 1986 World Cup! Why?! Brides bring luck, that’s why! The very next day, Maradona, who was equally superstitious about wearing the number 10 soccer uniform, led Argentina to victory against Brazil! Now, can you deny a man his superstition if it resulted in Brazil’s defeat?! Read More!
Beckham Back to America!
David Beckham returned to the Los Angeles Galaxy after spending six months on loan at AC Milan in Serie A. Ever ready with a smile, Becks, said he was happy to be back, but wouldn’t disclose how long he plans on staying! The 34-year-old midfielder admitted that he would consider returning to the Premier League though he once said he would never play against Manchester United.
Beckham’s return to the Galaxy wasn’t without controversy. It coincided with the release of a book by Sports Illustrated’s Grant Wahl. Titled “The Beckham Experiment,” it has Galaxy’s captain, Landon Donovan, criticizing Beckham extensively for his lack of commitment towards the Galaxy. Donovan also openly expressed his frustration over having the captaincy taken from him and given to Beckham. The English superstar responded by calling Donovan unprofessional for speaking without confronting him first.
Under Galaxy coach, Bruce Arena’s, watchful eye and careful mediation, the two players sat down to sort out their differences after their team’s 1-0 victory over Chivas USA. It is said that Landon apologized for his comments. And it seems Becks accepted the apology graciously. Both Beckham and Donovan will get a chance to prove that they’ve put the feud behind them when they next take the field together. Beckham has five goals and 12 assists in 30 games since he joined LA Galaxy, while Donovan leads with six goals and four assists. Let’s see which way the ball rolls!
The Galaxy is looking for a chance to make it to the playoffs. It has already won three consecutive games, capped by their win against Chivas USA. Beckham joined the Galaxy in 2007 for $32.5 million under a five year contract. Dogged by ankle and knee injuries, he managed to play just eight matches for the Galaxy that year, delivering one goal and three assists. The year 2008 saw a healthier Beckham chip in with 10 assists in 25 league matches. Though Los Angeles Galaxy missed the playoffs that year, Beckham’s presence in the number 23 soccer jersey was hugely felt with the average attendance for the games nearly doubling! And more than 400,000 Beckham Galaxy soccer jerseys have been sold in the last two years!
Becks has been at pains to prove his commitment to the Galaxy, declaring that he intends to see his five year contract through. But he’s also extremely keen to play in the 2010 FIFA World Cup next year at South Africa. If that means moving back home, it’s up for consideration! Its seems Beckham’s latest mantra in life is ‘never say never’! After all, who knows what’s to happen next! On leaving Man U, he swore ‘never’ to play for another English club and couldn’t imagine wearing another soccer uniform in the Premier League against Man U, but he’s learnt to never say never again!
As of now, amidst all the mixed signals, it seems a move back to Milan is more likely. After all, Becks still retains the right to terminate his contract after this season. The man is known to follow his heart. And his heart is clearly elsewhere… Read More!
Beckham’s return to the Galaxy wasn’t without controversy. It coincided with the release of a book by Sports Illustrated’s Grant Wahl. Titled “The Beckham Experiment,” it has Galaxy’s captain, Landon Donovan, criticizing Beckham extensively for his lack of commitment towards the Galaxy. Donovan also openly expressed his frustration over having the captaincy taken from him and given to Beckham. The English superstar responded by calling Donovan unprofessional for speaking without confronting him first.
Under Galaxy coach, Bruce Arena’s, watchful eye and careful mediation, the two players sat down to sort out their differences after their team’s 1-0 victory over Chivas USA. It is said that Landon apologized for his comments. And it seems Becks accepted the apology graciously. Both Beckham and Donovan will get a chance to prove that they’ve put the feud behind them when they next take the field together. Beckham has five goals and 12 assists in 30 games since he joined LA Galaxy, while Donovan leads with six goals and four assists. Let’s see which way the ball rolls!
The Galaxy is looking for a chance to make it to the playoffs. It has already won three consecutive games, capped by their win against Chivas USA. Beckham joined the Galaxy in 2007 for $32.5 million under a five year contract. Dogged by ankle and knee injuries, he managed to play just eight matches for the Galaxy that year, delivering one goal and three assists. The year 2008 saw a healthier Beckham chip in with 10 assists in 25 league matches. Though Los Angeles Galaxy missed the playoffs that year, Beckham’s presence in the number 23 soccer jersey was hugely felt with the average attendance for the games nearly doubling! And more than 400,000 Beckham Galaxy soccer jerseys have been sold in the last two years!
Becks has been at pains to prove his commitment to the Galaxy, declaring that he intends to see his five year contract through. But he’s also extremely keen to play in the 2010 FIFA World Cup next year at South Africa. If that means moving back home, it’s up for consideration! Its seems Beckham’s latest mantra in life is ‘never say never’! After all, who knows what’s to happen next! On leaving Man U, he swore ‘never’ to play for another English club and couldn’t imagine wearing another soccer uniform in the Premier League against Man U, but he’s learnt to never say never again!
As of now, amidst all the mixed signals, it seems a move back to Milan is more likely. After all, Becks still retains the right to terminate his contract after this season. The man is known to follow his heart. And his heart is clearly elsewhere… Read More!
Soccer Nicknames!
Over the years, soccer stars have been affectionately renamed by their fans. Some pet names salute on-field expertise, others are a burden to carry, and yet others dip into the animal kingdom for inspiration! Some of the most popular footballers are recognized by diminutive versions of their real names. And quite a few have been rechristened according to their appearance. Let’s take a look at some memorable, bizarre and unique nicknames in the world of soccer.
* Brazilian Ronaldo’s deadly dribbling and goal striking abilities earned him the title O Fenomeno.
* Gabriel Batistuta won recognition as Batigol after becoming Argentina’s most prolific goal scorer.
* Frenchman Fabien Barthez has gone down in history as the Baldheaded God (Le Divin Chauve)!
* Spaniard Ivan de la Pena’s nickname, The Little Buddha, has its origin’s in his lack of hair!
* Simple contractions transformed giant stars into affectionate, approachable guys - Jurgen Klinsmann was Klinsi, Michel Platini became Platoche and Filippo Inzaghi is Pippo!
* The famous wearer of the number 10 soccer shirt, Argentinian Diego Maradona was initially stuck with the not so flattering moniker, Fluffy, owing to his scruffy hairstyle! Luckily, he was later graced as the Golden Child (El Pibe de Oro).
* One of the most skilled dribbler, finisher and free kick specialist, Brazilian Zico, was so multitalented, he became dubbed the White Pele - a tough title to live up to for any player! Interestingly enough, Pele himself endorsed this comparison, admitting that “throughout the years, the one player that came closest to me was Zico.”
* Pet names take on such huge proportions, they sometimes replace and erase a players real name! Even their soccer jerseys carry their nickname! And thankfully so, or we wouldn’t have known where our favorite players were on field, without looking at the number on their soccer shirts! Pele, the greatest legend of the game, would’ve had Edson Arantes do Nascimento on the back of his soccer shirt! And our very own Garrincha would be Manuel Francisco dos Santos!
* For reasons unknown to us, German goalkeeper Oliver Kahn is known as Der Ausserirdische or The Extra Terrestrial! Is there something we should know here or has ET already gone home?!
* If German soccer star, Franz Beckenbauer, was The Emperor (Der Kaiser), his team mate, Gerd Müller, went down in history as The Bomber thanks to his goal scoring prowess!
* And now, time to enter the ‘soccer zoo’ where you’ll find Lionel Messi - the Flea, Claudio Lopez - the Louse, Emilio Butragueno – the Vulture, and their illustrious ancestors, Jack Charlton - the Giraffe, Lev Yashin - the Black Spider, Mario Kempes – the Matador, Eusebio – the Panther and Kevin Keegan – the Mouse! It’s a full house here, as you can see!
* Some players found themselves firmly ensconced on royal ground and sat on the throne with due honors. Ghanaian international, Prince Opoku Bismark Polley Sampene, known as Prince Polley, was a popular player in the Dutch league back in the 90’s.
* And then a name came along in the 80’s that took on spiritual proportions of the highest order - Jesus Zamora! Imagine Jesus playing for Spain at the Soccer World Cup! It doesn’t get more surreal than that, does it?! Read More!
* Brazilian Ronaldo’s deadly dribbling and goal striking abilities earned him the title O Fenomeno.
* Gabriel Batistuta won recognition as Batigol after becoming Argentina’s most prolific goal scorer.
* Frenchman Fabien Barthez has gone down in history as the Baldheaded God (Le Divin Chauve)!
* Spaniard Ivan de la Pena’s nickname, The Little Buddha, has its origin’s in his lack of hair!
* Simple contractions transformed giant stars into affectionate, approachable guys - Jurgen Klinsmann was Klinsi, Michel Platini became Platoche and Filippo Inzaghi is Pippo!
* The famous wearer of the number 10 soccer shirt, Argentinian Diego Maradona was initially stuck with the not so flattering moniker, Fluffy, owing to his scruffy hairstyle! Luckily, he was later graced as the Golden Child (El Pibe de Oro).
* One of the most skilled dribbler, finisher and free kick specialist, Brazilian Zico, was so multitalented, he became dubbed the White Pele - a tough title to live up to for any player! Interestingly enough, Pele himself endorsed this comparison, admitting that “throughout the years, the one player that came closest to me was Zico.”
* Pet names take on such huge proportions, they sometimes replace and erase a players real name! Even their soccer jerseys carry their nickname! And thankfully so, or we wouldn’t have known where our favorite players were on field, without looking at the number on their soccer shirts! Pele, the greatest legend of the game, would’ve had Edson Arantes do Nascimento on the back of his soccer shirt! And our very own Garrincha would be Manuel Francisco dos Santos!
* For reasons unknown to us, German goalkeeper Oliver Kahn is known as Der Ausserirdische or The Extra Terrestrial! Is there something we should know here or has ET already gone home?!
* If German soccer star, Franz Beckenbauer, was The Emperor (Der Kaiser), his team mate, Gerd Müller, went down in history as The Bomber thanks to his goal scoring prowess!
* And now, time to enter the ‘soccer zoo’ where you’ll find Lionel Messi - the Flea, Claudio Lopez - the Louse, Emilio Butragueno – the Vulture, and their illustrious ancestors, Jack Charlton - the Giraffe, Lev Yashin - the Black Spider, Mario Kempes – the Matador, Eusebio – the Panther and Kevin Keegan – the Mouse! It’s a full house here, as you can see!
* Some players found themselves firmly ensconced on royal ground and sat on the throne with due honors. Ghanaian international, Prince Opoku Bismark Polley Sampene, known as Prince Polley, was a popular player in the Dutch league back in the 90’s.
* And then a name came along in the 80’s that took on spiritual proportions of the highest order - Jesus Zamora! Imagine Jesus playing for Spain at the Soccer World Cup! It doesn’t get more surreal than that, does it?! Read More!
To wear soccer uniforms, it doesn’t matter where you were born for soccer stars.
Posted by
Giorgio Pirelli
Monday, July 13, 2009
Labels:
History soccer uniforms,
soccer jersey,
soccer starts
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The thrill of representing your country and wearing your national soccer jersey with pride is something that is a dream for many soccer players but sometimes, players play for a country other than the one they were born in. The vast majority of international players turn out for their country of birth but there can be many reasons why they play for another and the laws make this perfectly.
Some players may think that their chances of playing for their own national team is limited so decide to play for another team in order to gain more caps and get the chance to play at a major tournament. It is obvious that Brazil has an abundance of great players and not everyone can get their way into the squad and some top class players are an example of this. Soccer fans the world over will recognize Deco as a Portugal player and Marcos Senna was a major part of Spains Euro 2008 success but both players were born in Brazil. Perhaps both believed they would stand a better chance of being picked by another nation but it goes to show that even great players can use the ruling to play for another nation.
Other big nations like England, France, Italy and Germany have also benefitted from the rules that allow players to play for a nation other than their country of birth. England fans would agree that Owen Hargreaves was the best player in the England soccer uniforms at their last major tournament but he was born in Canada. France have long picked the best players from their colonies around the coast of Africa to play for them and the backbone of the team, like Patrick Viera who won the World Cup in 1998 and the European Championships in 2000 hailed from outside France. The history of Germany shows strong links to Poland and Turkey which means that many players have switched their allegiances. Miroslav Klose and Lukas Podoski were both born in Poland but have starred in the white soccer top of Germany as opposed to the red kit of Poland.
Italy not only have Giuseppe Rossi who was born in America and could be playing for the USA national team. Italy also two Argentinean born stars, Mauro Camoranesi and Pablo Danial Osvaldo, in their line-up so although the rules of who a player can play for can really help small nations get some great players, it can also be of benefit to the major nations as well.
One player who has thrilled fans in the green and white soccer kit of his club and country is Aiden McGeady. The Celtic wide man was born in Scotland but choose to play for the Republic of Ireland through links on his grandparents side but this move has not been without controversy. McGeady opted for the FAI after the SFA made no moves to select him and even though he was well within his rights to opt to play for another national team, McGeady is subjected to racial and sectarian abuse at away grounds throughout Scotland.
No matter the reason a player chooses to play for another national team, there is a fair amount of controversy and not every fan believes the rules are right. International soccer is an exciting proposition though and anything which ensures more talented players are able to play is better for soccer fans everywhere. Read More!
Some players may think that their chances of playing for their own national team is limited so decide to play for another team in order to gain more caps and get the chance to play at a major tournament. It is obvious that Brazil has an abundance of great players and not everyone can get their way into the squad and some top class players are an example of this. Soccer fans the world over will recognize Deco as a Portugal player and Marcos Senna was a major part of Spains Euro 2008 success but both players were born in Brazil. Perhaps both believed they would stand a better chance of being picked by another nation but it goes to show that even great players can use the ruling to play for another nation.
Other big nations like England, France, Italy and Germany have also benefitted from the rules that allow players to play for a nation other than their country of birth. England fans would agree that Owen Hargreaves was the best player in the England soccer uniforms at their last major tournament but he was born in Canada. France have long picked the best players from their colonies around the coast of Africa to play for them and the backbone of the team, like Patrick Viera who won the World Cup in 1998 and the European Championships in 2000 hailed from outside France. The history of Germany shows strong links to Poland and Turkey which means that many players have switched their allegiances. Miroslav Klose and Lukas Podoski were both born in Poland but have starred in the white soccer top of Germany as opposed to the red kit of Poland.
Italy not only have Giuseppe Rossi who was born in America and could be playing for the USA national team. Italy also two Argentinean born stars, Mauro Camoranesi and Pablo Danial Osvaldo, in their line-up so although the rules of who a player can play for can really help small nations get some great players, it can also be of benefit to the major nations as well.
One player who has thrilled fans in the green and white soccer kit of his club and country is Aiden McGeady. The Celtic wide man was born in Scotland but choose to play for the Republic of Ireland through links on his grandparents side but this move has not been without controversy. McGeady opted for the FAI after the SFA made no moves to select him and even though he was well within his rights to opt to play for another national team, McGeady is subjected to racial and sectarian abuse at away grounds throughout Scotland.
No matter the reason a player chooses to play for another national team, there is a fair amount of controversy and not every fan believes the rules are right. International soccer is an exciting proposition though and anything which ensures more talented players are able to play is better for soccer fans everywhere. Read More!
Soccer Style Statements!
It’s a world of soccer and it’s a world of fashion with the most amazing soccer accessories and gift items. Here’s a quick peek at what’s cool, hot and unique at soccer stores and online sites! Get ready for a few surprises…
Soccer Car Power!
• Mini kit air freshener - Let your car smell great with an air freshener that comes in the shape and colors of your favorite team’s soccer gear!
• Soccer shatter decal - This very cool, eye catching, attention grabbing, soccer ball looks like it crashed right through your car windscreen! It’s removable and 3 dimensional. And a big time hit as a car accessory. Sure makes for a great conversation starter!
• Steering wheel cover – A one-size-fits-all steering wheel with soccer ball imprints all over. The perfect gift for your coach!
• Love soccer magnet – A ribbon shaped magnet that’ll add the cool quotient to your car.
It’s Black! It’s White!
• Soccer jibbitz – Snap these nifty soccer shaped jibbitz’s into your Crocs and strut the room in style. A hot favorite!
• Black soccer bottle – Durable, practical and good looking, this bottle comes insulated with a straw. It’ll quench your thirst all right, but not your thirst for the game!
• Soccer necklace – For both boys and girls, this soccer ball pendant on a silver necklace works like a charm… A very personal style statement.
• Soccer sunglasses – Pretty in pink and boyish in black, these glares have a soccer ball imprinted on both sides of the temples. Subtle and smart, this’ll make you look hot and feel cool!
Subtly Soccer!
• Crystal paperweights – Shaped in male or female figures, these crystal soccer gifts are classy and original. Very well crafted, with great finesse.
• Silk soccer ties – A handmade silk necktie is a great winner, especially with fathers and ‘others’!
• Soccer team personalized diary – A 2009/2010 hard back diary that takes you back to the glory days of your favorite soccer club. A great buy for nostalgic soccer fans who can leaf through 100 years of newspaper coverage on their club’s best games. You can even get your name embossed in silver on the cover!
Squeeze Me Please!
• Soccer monkey – A huggable plush monkey takes a shot at a soccer ball dressed up in a professional soccer uniform. He stands 16 inches tall and makes a cute gift for yourself!
• Sock monkey soccer boy – Another exclusive! A squishy monkey made from good quality sock material! He’s also ready for action in his soccer uniform. A perfect gift for your favorite soccer player!
• Soccer boy bobble frame – This hand-sculpted ceramic bobble frame lets you slip in a 1.5″ X 1.5″ photograph! You can even customize it with a team number on the back of the soccer jersey. Very cool for soccer fans, coaches, Most Valuable Players, brothers, friends and, of course, yourself!
So, these are the latest picks from the world of soccer accessories and gifts. Some can be personalized, others are simply originals! What are you waiting for? Get online and shop! Have fun! Read More!
Soccer Car Power!
• Mini kit air freshener - Let your car smell great with an air freshener that comes in the shape and colors of your favorite team’s soccer gear!
• Soccer shatter decal - This very cool, eye catching, attention grabbing, soccer ball looks like it crashed right through your car windscreen! It’s removable and 3 dimensional. And a big time hit as a car accessory. Sure makes for a great conversation starter!
• Steering wheel cover – A one-size-fits-all steering wheel with soccer ball imprints all over. The perfect gift for your coach!
• Love soccer magnet – A ribbon shaped magnet that’ll add the cool quotient to your car.
It’s Black! It’s White!
• Soccer jibbitz – Snap these nifty soccer shaped jibbitz’s into your Crocs and strut the room in style. A hot favorite!
• Black soccer bottle – Durable, practical and good looking, this bottle comes insulated with a straw. It’ll quench your thirst all right, but not your thirst for the game!
• Soccer necklace – For both boys and girls, this soccer ball pendant on a silver necklace works like a charm… A very personal style statement.
• Soccer sunglasses – Pretty in pink and boyish in black, these glares have a soccer ball imprinted on both sides of the temples. Subtle and smart, this’ll make you look hot and feel cool!
Subtly Soccer!
• Crystal paperweights – Shaped in male or female figures, these crystal soccer gifts are classy and original. Very well crafted, with great finesse.
• Silk soccer ties – A handmade silk necktie is a great winner, especially with fathers and ‘others’!
• Soccer team personalized diary – A 2009/2010 hard back diary that takes you back to the glory days of your favorite soccer club. A great buy for nostalgic soccer fans who can leaf through 100 years of newspaper coverage on their club’s best games. You can even get your name embossed in silver on the cover!
Squeeze Me Please!
• Soccer monkey – A huggable plush monkey takes a shot at a soccer ball dressed up in a professional soccer uniform. He stands 16 inches tall and makes a cute gift for yourself!
• Sock monkey soccer boy – Another exclusive! A squishy monkey made from good quality sock material! He’s also ready for action in his soccer uniform. A perfect gift for your favorite soccer player!
• Soccer boy bobble frame – This hand-sculpted ceramic bobble frame lets you slip in a 1.5″ X 1.5″ photograph! You can even customize it with a team number on the back of the soccer jersey. Very cool for soccer fans, coaches, Most Valuable Players, brothers, friends and, of course, yourself!
So, these are the latest picks from the world of soccer accessories and gifts. Some can be personalized, others are simply originals! What are you waiting for? Get online and shop! Have fun! Read More!
Owen back in the red Soccer Uniform and at the top of the league
Season 2009/10 was going to be a nervous one for Liverpool fans anyway, what with Manchester United looking to sneak beyond them with regards to titles won but things just got tougher for the Liverpool reds. One of their favorite sons has signed a contract for Manchester United and in the irony of ironies, he could be the man who fires Manchester United to the proud position of having won the most top flight domestic titles in England. To those on the outside, Michael Owen wearing the red soccer kit of Manchester United will not be too different from Michael Owen wearing the red soccer jersey from Liverpool but for fans of both clubs, it is a defining moment of a season that is yet to kick-off.
Owen has struggled at Newcastle United, never really looking comfortable in the black and white striped kit of the Magpies but as a club, Newcastle have been on a downward spiral for a number of years. This has culminated in their relegation and although some fans hoped that their big name players would stay and help them bounce back to the Premier League, more have been happy to get the underachievers off the wage bill. Having lost his place in the England squad and with a world cup year ahead, there is no way that Michael Owen could afford to play Championship football for a season but it seemed as though his top flight options were not going to be too attractive. As much as the sight of Michael Owen in the Newcastle soccer kit was strange, if the player was seen playing the Hull City soccer uniform, it would have been the death-knell for his career. That’s why the shock move to Manchester United may just be thing to revitalise the player and perhaps get him on the plane to South Africa.
Its clear that Owen would probably have preferred a return to Anfield and have the chance to play in front of the Kop again but Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez has never been an admirer of the player. He had the chance to buy him before which was declined and even though Liverpool’s league hopes last season disintegrated because of a lack of a poacher, Benitez still believes he is better off without him. This left Owen looking for another club and in England, they don’t come any bigger than Manchester United which is why Owen could hardly turn down the lure of Old Trafford.
Its not as if United need to improve their global branding but considering they have new home and away soccer uniforms to sell this season, bringing in another world famous player like Michael Owen will do them no harm. They may have lost Cristiano Ronaldo, who will be playing in the all white soccer uniform of Real Madrid next season, and Owen is no Ronaldo but it gives the club another star striker who can grab goals when they need them most. Do not expect Michael Owen to be playing week in and week out for United but you can expect him to come off the bench in tight matches and he may prove to be the deciding factor in a league campaign that is destined to be tight. Read More!
Owen has struggled at Newcastle United, never really looking comfortable in the black and white striped kit of the Magpies but as a club, Newcastle have been on a downward spiral for a number of years. This has culminated in their relegation and although some fans hoped that their big name players would stay and help them bounce back to the Premier League, more have been happy to get the underachievers off the wage bill. Having lost his place in the England squad and with a world cup year ahead, there is no way that Michael Owen could afford to play Championship football for a season but it seemed as though his top flight options were not going to be too attractive. As much as the sight of Michael Owen in the Newcastle soccer kit was strange, if the player was seen playing the Hull City soccer uniform, it would have been the death-knell for his career. That’s why the shock move to Manchester United may just be thing to revitalise the player and perhaps get him on the plane to South Africa.
Its clear that Owen would probably have preferred a return to Anfield and have the chance to play in front of the Kop again but Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez has never been an admirer of the player. He had the chance to buy him before which was declined and even though Liverpool’s league hopes last season disintegrated because of a lack of a poacher, Benitez still believes he is better off without him. This left Owen looking for another club and in England, they don’t come any bigger than Manchester United which is why Owen could hardly turn down the lure of Old Trafford.
Its not as if United need to improve their global branding but considering they have new home and away soccer uniforms to sell this season, bringing in another world famous player like Michael Owen will do them no harm. They may have lost Cristiano Ronaldo, who will be playing in the all white soccer uniform of Real Madrid next season, and Owen is no Ronaldo but it gives the club another star striker who can grab goals when they need them most. Do not expect Michael Owen to be playing week in and week out for United but you can expect him to come off the bench in tight matches and he may prove to be the deciding factor in a league campaign that is destined to be tight. Read More!
