Nikesoccer : 2007 : December

Turkey and The Other Football

Posted by gabejazzy Dec 27, 2007 Event Date: Dec 27, 2007 4:00 PM

The Holidays are here, which, for most American families means the television is dominated by classic Christmas movies and, of course, football. Not that football isn't fun to watch, but what about the other football...? Unless you're one of the lucky few who's family actually huddles around to watch Man United vs the Cowboys, you've probably missed a bit of the action.

There's been some exciting play in the last few days, and in case you missed it, here's a few articles and vids to check out:

"The World's Best vs Italy's Best." Inter takes AC Milan 2-1. Check out the video.

Clint Dempsey Saves the Day! Dempsey's late goal (in the 78th minute of play) keeps Fulham out of relegation.

Julio Baptista (sporting his white Total 90's) scores to secure a Real Madrid 1-0 win over Barcelona.

Whether your TV is tuned to the Beautiful Game or not, we hope you're able to brave the cold to get in some time with the ball, whether it's a family pick up game or even indoor house soccer. Who care's if you break a few things in the house along the way...

We'll catch up with you again from 365 Todays in 2008!

0 Comments 0 References Permalink Tags: dempsey, mnt, usa

Bradley's Blitz

Posted by gabejazzy Dec 13, 2007 Event Date: Dec 13, 2007 4:00 PM

Americans scoring goals abroad always comes as exciting news, but a headline like “Bradley Blitzes Groningen” truly is something special. Never before has an American notched a hat trick in major European action. The supposedly defensive center midfielder perfectly positioned himself for the first and third (thanks for the instincts, Dad), and did well to redirect a low cross for the second. Now Bradley’s side Heerenveen sits in fourth place and is nipping at the heals of the Eredivisie big three, Ajax, PSV and Feyenoord. For all those stories about the difficulty young American prospects have trying to make it professionally abroad, this is exactly the type of transformative moment (fingers crossed) that only the top European clubs can provide. Can’t wait for the opportunity to see Mike’s new and improved game in the upcoming US MNT friendlies against Sweden (1/19) and Mexico (2/6).

On a more somber note, it looks like you won’t be hearing much about DaMarcus Beasley since he recently underwent surgery on his right knee. After such a promising start for Glasgow Rangers, it’s going to be 4-6 months before Beas is back on the field and terrorizing the flanks, which we all hope will be right in time for the start of MNT qualification.

This weekend also saw a lot of amazing soccer being played in our own backyard. US Soccer’s Bradenton Academy hosted the first annual Nike Friendlies tournament, which featured some of the top club and international youth players, coaches and scouts around. The Nike Friendlies mantra is essentially “Quality over Quantity,” as in, train more and play uncompetitive games less. In a youth athletics world where burnout is all too common, matches should actually test and challenge a player’s development. This year’s Nike Friendlies was a unanimous success, and not only because US MNT U-17 appear to be stacked with future national team talent.

0 Comments 0 References Permalink Tags: beasley, bradley, mnt, usa

The Kick Around

Posted by gabejazzy Dec 5, 2007 Event Date: Dec 5, 2007 10:00 AM

Cristiano Ronaldo may not win the 2007 FIFA World Player of the Year award (announced December 17), but after that game-winning crack against Sporting,it looks like he’s already getting his candidacy ready for a 2008 campaign. We’ve got to admit, it looked a bit presumptuous when he was lining the 30-yard free kick up, but when the ball hit the net and our brains rebooted after a moment of sensory overload, all that doubt turned into belief. Cantona anybody? With Rooney out with injury, things have been less than stellar for Manchester United in the Premiership, but in no way has the recent turbulence affected Cristiano’s swagger. His squad is undefeated in Champions League and there’s certainly still time to make a run at Arsenal in league play.

Speaking of Arsenal, if there’s one man who’s matched Cristiano’s brilliance, it’s the Nike Tiempo Air Legend II-wearing Cesc Fabregas. The 20-year-old Spanish midfielder has scored 11 goals so far this season, but more importantly, he’s conducted The Gunners offensive orchestra with more precision, creativity and maturity than ever before. A fascinating player to watch, we hope to see him back in action a recent spell on the injury list.

Barcelona and Inter Milan haven’t been too shabby either. Despite some reason turmoil in the clubhouse, the Catalans sit only four points behind Real Madrid in La Liga. Controversy has swirled around Ronaldinho this season, but with friends by his side, he’s kept that trademark Brazilian allegria, and is quickly finding his top form. For Inter, it’s been all about Ibra. The rangy Swedish forward has already knocked in 12 goals in Serie A, and in his last game showed off the finesse game with a perfectly paced assist.

If you’re looking for US MNT action, be sure to check out the U-17 games this week on FSC.