Nikesoccer : March 2010

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1

The Brazilian Journey

Posted by DonJulio Mar 31, 2010

From the futsal courts of Rio to Granja Commary, Brazil's legendary mountaintop training ground, The Brazilian Journey helps you follow in the footsteps of some of the world's greatest players.

Learn to play with the devastating skills, speed and penetration that has been the hallmark of the Brazilian game for the last half century.

Focus on the techniques and drills that have helped hone the talents of Brazilian internationals like Robinho, Luis Fabiano and Nilmar.

Live for football the way young Brazilians do and Master Speed and agility with A Pelada; pick up the pace with expert fitness instructions devised by Corinthians and add the unmistakable Brazilian finesse with technical guidance from the country's top coaches.

Take control of your journey from April 1st.

Have your say and don't miss a single Write The Future moment. Join the conversation with Nike Soccer on Twitter, Facebook, and MySpace.

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In A Game Of Stars

Posted by DonJulio Mar 31, 2010


Zlatan is the star of the newest Nike Soccer video--a title he intends to keep tonight, in the week's most anticipated battle.

Wearing the brand new Mercurial Vapor Superfly II against Arsenal, Ibrahimovic will be shooting for goals in hopes of sending Barcelona to the top.

Can the stalwart striker rise up in a match full of stars?

Have your say and don't miss a single Make The Difference moment. Join the conversation with Nike Soccer on Twitter, Facebook, and MySpace.


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Sneijder's Fight For Semifinal

Posted by DonJulio Mar 31, 2010

At this point you can’t wait for your opponent to make an error. You have to fight and put on the pitch every weapon you have.

Tonight at San Siro, Inter Milan has Wesley Sneijder, and he has the T90 laser III.

Can their Russian opponents counter the in-form midfielder? Or will it again be the Dutchman making the difference in Italy?

Have your say and don't miss a single Make The Difference moment. Join the conversation with Nike Soccer on Twitter, Facebook, and MySpace.

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Lace Up Save Lives has shown the power of football to fight HIV/AIDS, and the lineup of Gamechangers has shown the power of football to affect social change on a range of issues from homelessness to health to education.

We know there are many more organizations out there changing lives through football, and we want to bring them onto the team.

To help find these gamechanging organizations we've partnered with Ashoka's Changemakers on the "Changing Lives Through Football" Competition.

Between now and June 11th any organization using football to enact social change can submit its idea for the chance at a share of the $90,000 in prizes. Finalists will be selected by a panel of expert judges based on innovation, social impact and sustainability. From these finalists the grand prize winner will be chosen by open voting.

Be on the lookout for that starting July 21st. In the meantime get all the details and check out the entrants here.

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Three Times Miccoli

Posted by DonJulio Mar 29, 2010

Fabrizio Miccoli wants Europe, he wants Europe more than anything else. His goals are the field are driving his team up toward that ultimate goal.

The new Mercurial Vapor Superfly II's are his new weapon, and he took advantage of them on Saturday, scoring three goals.

It was his accuracy on the first goal. The second came from a perfect penalty, and master speed gave him the third. Combining all the best attributes of a footballer, Miccoli is rising the ranks of the best European footballers.

The challenge for the fourth place and European play, is open to many teams, but with their captain in top form, the rosanero have great chances.

Can Miccoli take them to Europe?

Don't miss a single Make The Difference moment. Follow Nike Soccer on Twitter, Facebook, and MySpace. Discover more about Landon Donovan and his USMNT teammates at their page in the bootroom.

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10

Rewrite The Rules Of Speed

Posted by DonJulio Mar 26, 2010

The world’s fastest boot for the world’s fastest players; the Mercurial Vapor Superfly II takes innovation to a new level.

Built with a lightweight carbon fiber plate, Nike SENSE Adaptive traction studs extend and retract for lethal grip and explosive acceleration in all directions and conditions.

Give players like Zlatan space and they’ll punish you. Give them a lightweight boot with traction on demand; they’ll destroy you.

Get the Superfly II with Nike Football+ from April 1st . Master Speed the Brazilian way. Buy now.

Have your say and don't miss a single Write The Future moment. Join the conversation with Nike Soccer on Twitter, Facebook, and MySpace.


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Undefeated Means Work

Posted by DonJulio Mar 26, 2010

Through intense rain and mud in Portugal, the USWNT held on for the title, for the 7th time.

With a 3-2 victory over their newest rival and world #2, Germany, the USWNT captured the first available international trophy of 2010.

With first half goals from Carli Lloyd and Abby Wambach, the team finished the championship game just as they started the year--the world's #1 team is still on top.

But that's now in the past. To stay undefeated in 2010, the ladies must defeat the nation's biggest soccer rival, Mexico, not once, but twice in three days. First, March 28 in San Diego and then March 31 in Sandy, Utah.

Can the best women's team in the world keep rolling?

Have your say and don't miss a single Make The Difference moment. Join the conversation with Nike Soccer on Twitter, Facebook, and MySpace.


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Speed Battle

Posted by DonJulio Mar 26, 2010

Eight days to go, and Serie A is inflamed with a battle that would mean Scudetto.

Inter Milan has the chance to leave all behind, while the "giallorossi" will try hard to get closer to the top.

It's like a final, everything put on the pitch.

Mirko Vucinic will try to hit the target with his brand new Mercurial Vapor Superfly II's, but Stankovic will use the same weapon to take the victory home.

Who will succeed?

Have your say and don't miss a single Make The Difference moment. Join the conversation with Nike Soccer on Twitter, Facebook, and MySpace.

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Chilean pitbull Gary Medel scored the two goals that gave Boca the victory against their lifetime enemy.

The first goal came off a deflected freekick, and the second was with a laser strike after a very quick counter attack.

Fabián Monzón and Matías Giménez provided the help, Medel finished.

The xeneize´s victory comes at an important time. Boca needs to keep winning in order to add to history, closing out the Clausura tournament on top.

Have your say and don't miss a single Make The Difference moment. Join the conversation with Nike Soccer on Twitter, Facebook, and MySpace.

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10

Want exclusive access to the best players and coaches in the world? How about getting pro drills straight from the training grounds of Brazil, Barcelona and Juventus, direct to your iPhone? If football is everything to you, Nike Soccer+ is your essential training tool.

Nike Soccer+ brings you exclusive training programmes – Master Speed, Master Accuracy and Master Control – all designed to help turn you into a deadlier player.

Got what it takes to beat the fastest player on earth? Take the Master Speed: Cristiano Ronaldo Challenge and find out. Then continue to raise your game with challenges set by Torres and Fabregas in Master Control and Master Accuracy.

This is more than training. Get an edge over the opposition, Go Inside the Pro and be the first to get inside tips from the world’s best soccer players.

If you don’t have an iPhone, you can still get stuck-in. Get Faster with the Fastest and complete Master Speed, along with our other training programmes on your mobile phone. Type www.nikesoccer.com/mobile in your mobile web browser and get started.

Start Your Journey

Get The App


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The American league opens its 2010 season today under more pressure than anytime in recent history.

Beyond making a good first impression on coaches and fans, some of the league's best players are faced with last chance impressions.

30-man preliminary rosters for South Africa are due May 11, and America's best domestic players have barely more than a month to stake their claim.

While the likes of Landon Donovan, last year's most valuable player, is a lock to make the trip, other great players can seize the moment to help their cause with stellar starts to the season.

Making the playoffs or winning the championship must wait, because the most important cup comes up in June. And every player dreams of being there.

Who will shine in this season's opening matches?

Have your say and don't miss a single Make The Difference moment. Join the conversation with Nike Soccer on Twitter, Facebook, and MySpace.

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From football matches played on city streets to stadiums full of football fanatics; Brazilian internationals like Robinho never forget their futsal roots.

After his side cruised to 9-1 win at the weekend, it's little surprise the Brazilian magician and players like Neymar and Ganso play with a smile.

Designed to put the power of speed directly into your match day preparation, the NikeFootball+ Master Speed program gives you the inside track on training the Brazilian way.

Get faster with the fastest. Master Speed.

Coming soon on your iPhone, mobile and on Nikesoccer.com.

Join the conversation with Nike Soccer on Twitter, Facebook, and MySpace.

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Lethal Vucinic

Posted by DonJulio Mar 22, 2010

If you are fast enough to conquer your space, the goalkeeper simply can’t stop you every time.

The goalkeeper blocked the first two shoots of Mirko, but on the third trial the shot was simply perfect and went directly under the top corner.

Vucinic is unstoppable. First he heated up his brand new Mercurial Vapor Superfly II. Second – on a penalty – he showed the real meaning of “perfect penalty execution.” And third he drove everybody mad.

Mirko takes his team just 4 points from the first place, but with the number 9 on top form the games are extremely open.

Have your say and don't miss a single Make The Difference moment. Join the conversation with Nike Soccer on Twitter, Facebook, and MySpace.


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Masterful Debuts

Posted by DonJulio Mar 20, 2010

Every player loves a new pair of boots. America's top athletes have proved that with goal-scoring performances while debuting their newest weapons this season.

Last fall in America, Landon Donovan tied on his CTR360 Maestri's for the first time and scored the night's only goal in a crucial late-season clash with Chicago. Master Control.

In December, Michael Bradley added a laser free kick from 18 yards out in an 8-goal thriller in Germany while debuting his new T90 Laser III's. Master Accuracy.

And Wednesday in London, Clint Dempsey stepped into the new Mercurial Vapor Superfly II's and in a flash turned to place the perfect game-winner past an unexpecting goal keeper into the far corner. Master Speed.

Masterful Debuts Indeed.

Have your say and don't miss a single Make The Difference moment. Join the conversation with Nike Soccer on Twitter, Facebook, and MySpace.

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Whatever It Takes

Posted by DonJulio Mar 19, 2010

One more time, the match that every Boca Juniors' fan waits for is here: the Superclasico.

This match is a tournament unto itself. The future mood of fans depends on next Sunday's result--one that can consecrate and sentence players.

This weekend, Boca midfielder Gary Medel and Paulo Ferrari are going to battle for the control.

For the xeneize, victory will be a very important shove to redirect their primal objective: be Argentina's top team.

Have your say and don't miss a single Make The Difference moment. Join the conversation with Nike Soccer on Twitter, Facebook, and MySpace.


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Dempsey's Day

Posted by DonJulio Mar 18, 2010

It was one of Fulham's greatest nights in European Football. Clint Dempsey was the hero, and Fulham fans had West London rocking.

The term "super sub" is thrown around the soccer world, but Clint Dempsey made it matter coming off the bench for Fulham against Juventus today.

With the clock winding down, with the teams tied on aggregate, in his first game with the brand new Mercurial Vapor Superfly II, the USMNT star turned and chipped a perfect ball from the top right corner of the penalty area into the far post upper90 and put Fulham through to quarterfinals of their European competition.

There is no better example of a Super Sub. Today was Dempsey's day.

That's now eight goals this year for Dempsey. How high can he go - another year as Fulham's leading scorer?

The new Mercurial Superfly II will be available 4.1.10. Pre-order your boots beginning 3.22.10. Have your say and don't miss a single Make The Difference moment. Join the conversation with Nike Soccer on Twitter, Facebook, and MySpace.

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It's All About Strategy

Posted by DonJulio Mar 17, 2010

The midfield strategists will be key in the second leg of the last sixteen for Europe's biggest prize.

When the two teams take the field today it will be Khedira vs. Barcelona's Iniesta, and the match could depend on their play.

Who will make their mark in tonight's game?

Have your say and don't miss a single Make The Difference moment. Join the conversation with Nike Soccer on Twitter, Facebook, and MySpace.


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Besides the almost 100 years of history, Corinthians is celebrating another landmark achievement: during the victorious game on Sunday the club scored its 10,000th goal.

The mark was achieved by Dentinho, who at 21 years of age enters into the team's history. "It was a dream of mine to score this goal, with the help of God it came true", stated the player during half time of the game that ended with a scoreboard of 2 to 1 for the team from Sao Jorge Park. It's a victory that places Corinthians once again among the four leading teams in the Sao Paulo championship.

From the club's founding on September 1st, 1910, to the game against Santo Andre, Corinthians played 5,152 games with an average of 1.94 goals per game. Claudio, the forward who played from 1945 to 1957, is the highest scorer of all time with 305 goals. The list goes on to include Baltazar. Playing in the same period as Claudio, he added 267 goals. Teleco (1934 - 1944) and Neco (1913 -1930) each had 254 goals.

So far Dentinho, who was brought up from the team's youth leagues, has scored 45 goals in his professional life.

Congratulations Corinthians, for one more achievement! Congratulations Dentinho, a young star who will certainly score many more goals for the team's faithful followers!

See the exclusive photos of the game in which Corinthians scored its 10,000th goal.


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Milner The Match-Winner

Posted by DonJulio Mar 17, 2010

With his side chasing the coveted fourth spot in the Premier League, James Milner’s eye for goal has been instrumental in keeping the Villans firmly in the European hunt.

Another eye-catching display and clinical finish from the versatile midfielder put him into double figures for the season and helped his side to a crucial win.

Is Milner staking a claim to be in this summer’s starting XI?

Have your say and don't miss a single Make The Difference moment. Join the conversation with Nike Soccer on Twitter, Facebook, and MySpace.

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Milan Laces Up

Posted by DonJulio Mar 16, 2010

After the (NIKE)RED weekend with RED laces, RED goals and RED balls, it will be Milan turning RED on Thursday.

Nike organized an event at the store NIKEMILANO, Corso Buenos Aires 12, to give another contribution to the fight to AIDS in Africa. The protagonists will be the (NIKE)RED laces and the (NIKE) RED T90 Ascente, the ball that just realized the seasonal record of goals scored in one Serie A day.

Special guests at the NIKEMILANO store will be Libiana Grenot, basketballer Gianmarco Pozzecco, striker Marco Borriello, Olympic champion Giuliano Razzoli, and World Champion Marco Materazzi.

Fans will be able to meet their heroes and learn more about Lace Up Save Lives, the partnership set to the fight of AIDS in Africa.


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Bendtner's Bombshell

Posted by DonJulio Mar 16, 2010

On a tricky away day, Arsenal's determination and strength of character earned them a crucial three points.

Against a side battling for survival, Andrey Arshavin's jinking run and finish looked to be the games' telling moment but it was Nicklas Bendtner's injury time winner that broke home fans' hearts and keeps the Gunners in touch at the top of the Premier League.

Can Arsenal maintain their momentum and win the title?

Have your say and don't miss a single Make The Difference moment. Join the conversation with Nike Soccer on Twitter, Facebook, and MySpace.

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El Nino Does Damage

Posted by DonJulio Mar 16, 2010

In a season of few positives for the Anfield club at least one thing remains a certainty: Fernando Torres hitting the back of the net.

Back to full fitness, the Spanish striker set up two and scored two in the Reds' 4-1 demolition of Pompey to keep his team in the hunt for European qualification.

The boy is back.

Is Torres the player to save his club's season?

Have your say and don't miss a single Make The Difference moment. Join the conversation with Nike Soccer on Twitter, Facebook, and MySpace.

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Leagues Go (NIKE)RED

Posted by DonJulio Mar 10, 2010


They send their champions into continental competitions against each other, but rarely do the biggest leagues of Europe get together for a common goal.

This weekend, the leagues of England, Spain, and Italy will introduce the special edition (NIKE) RED T90 Ascente ball in all home fixtures in a unified show of support for the Lace Up Saves Lives partnership designed to raise funds and awareness for the fight against HIV/AIDS in Africa.

The (NIKE) RED ball is a specially designed T90 Ascente - the same ball currently used by all three leagues. But for one weekend it becomes more than a tool for victory. Spiraling RED around the field, the ball becomes a symbol bigger than any game, team, or league.

The global battle to stop the spread of HIV/AIDS is greater than any trophy and will require all of us to play on the same team.

Watch the games. Learn more about Lace Up Save Lives.

Have your say and don't miss a single Make The Difference moment. Join the conversation with Nike Soccer on Twitter, Facebook, and MySpace.

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Rooney Reigns Supreme

Posted by DonJulio Mar 10, 2010

He’s put Premier League defenses to the sword 23 times.

His goal was the decisive winner in the League Cup final

He dominated the San Siro and left Milan in ruins.

On Wednesday, he repeated the feat and reached a new milestone.

Another Wayne Rooney double gave the prolific striker 30 goals for the season and sent Manchester United through in Europe.

Can Wayne score 43 goals this season?

Records are there to be broken.

Have your say and don't miss a single Make The Difference moment. Join the conversation with Nike Soccer on Twitter, Facebook, and MySpace.


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No Forecast Admitted

Posted by DonJulio Mar 10, 2010

Everyone is ready for today's match at Old Trafford. Players appear to have no worries, but everyone can feel the voltage building.

The 2007 perfect match is still alive in the Red Devil's supporters’ memory, while all the rossoneri players want to relive that magical night.

Ronaldinho is ready to make the difference. The situation is the same as in 2007, but this battle will take place in Manchester. Will the result be the same?

Twenty two champions will face off today. Who will succeed and continue dreaming of a European championship?

Have your say and don't miss a single Make The Difference moment. Join the conversation with Nike Soccer on Twitter, Facebook, and MySpace.

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Cristiano’s Adversary

Posted by DonJulio Mar 9, 2010

Your teammates can correct your positioning after a move. The coach can tell you how you can improve. Perhaps someone will whisper in your ear to tell you where to aim your free kick.

But there is only one person able to take you to the highest level. Someone you must beat every day. Yourself.

Cristiano is the first to challenge Cristiano. The first to self-impose his greatest lesson: "If you think you’re perfect already, then you never will be."

Have your say and don't miss a single Make The Difference moment. Join the converstion with Nike Soccer on Twitter, Facebook, and MySpace


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Helmes The Hammer

Posted by DonJulio Mar 8, 2010

Having scored 21 goals in his first season for the Neverkusen, Patrick Helmes' injury looked set to derail this season.

But the prolific German international was back amongst the goals on Sunday and will be a key player for the Neverkusen as they push for the Bundesliga title.

Injuries can define a player for all the unfortunate reasons. It's how you respond to the setback.

As you can see, Patrick is as powerful as ever.

Can he help fire the Neverkusen to the Bundesliga title?

Have your say and don't miss a single Make The Difference moment. Join the converstion with Nike Soccer on Twitter, Facebook, and MySpace.


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Bocanegra Battles

Posted by DonJulio Mar 8, 2010

Three games without a win, and your team is sliding down the league table.

When nothing seems to be going right, sometimes the only thing that can turn your luck is pure will. The willingness to throw your body into air challenges or the ability to get a touch on a loose ball lingering around the box.

These can be the deciding factors, and in a career lasting more than a decade in America, England, and France, Carlos Bocanegra knows this better than most.

Just days removed from a set-piece header against Holland, the USMNT defender secured an important victory for his club team when he got a toe on the end of a free kick that went bouncing through the mixer.

Call it all good practice for South Africa, where pure effort to come out on top will be a deciding factor in important matches.

Prepare for Combat.

Have your say and don't miss a single Make The Difference moment. Follow Nike Soccer on Twitter, Facebook, and MySpace.


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Nothing in this sport is a given.

Sliding into that last-ditch goal-saving tackle, challenging for that 50/50 ball when you know the collision is coming. Or rising up above 3 defenders to win that ever important cross into the box.

You have to be prepared, willing to do anything, to be a history defining player on the world's biggest stage.

That's why this year's new national team kits don't end with jerseys.

Teams will enter into battle in South Africa with the latest styles of Nike Pro Combat.

The new Pro Combat Slider Short built for protection, and tops made with the varied climates of South Africa in mind, ensure maximum mobility and protection, so players can feel comfortable and prepared for the games most physical components.

Prepare For Combat.

Have your say and don't miss a single Make The Difference moment. Follow Nike Soccer on Twitter, Facebook, and MySpace.

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Miccoli’s Magic

Posted by DonJulio Mar 8, 2010

In the last minutes Miccoli found his 10th goal of the season, collecting 3 points for his club and pushing them into 4th place alone.

Miccoli tried all match long to score his 10th goal of the season, but the goalkeeper didn’t want to give way to the little bomber. But we know that Fabrizio isn’t a player that surrenders. As the minutes died, Miccoli came alive.

Stop, glimpse to the goal, turn, and strike. It was as simple as that, the ball untouchable just inside the goalpost.

The city of Palermo is dreaming Europe. Miccoli is the man that can make this dream come true.

Have your say and don't miss a single Make The Difference moment. Follow Nike Soccer on Twitter, Facebook, and MySpace.

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Answers

Posted by DonJulio Mar 7, 2010

In what may or may not be his final home game for the Toffees, Landon Donovan came in partway through the second half and personally closed the door on Hull by adding a goal and assist in a 5-1 blow out.

First it was a perfect strike, a low laser across the goal mouth and past the keeper that found the far post side-netting. The floodgates opened to 4-1.

Then with a similar look at the goal, it was an unselfish touch from the American midfielder that offered an opportunity to a teammate. 5-1.

Donovan continues to prove his worth in England. If any questions persisted this long, surely they were answered as chants of U-S-A rang out in Liverpool.

Have your say and don't miss a single Make The Difference moment. Follow Nike Soccer on Twitter, Facebook, and MySpace. Discover more about Landon Donovan and his USMNT teammates at their page in the bootroom. Check out the new USMNT Away kits, pictured above, along with the limited edition (RED) ball, track jacket, and laces.


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Ten Years of Deadly Accuracy

Posted by DonJulio Mar 5, 2010

Every goal changes a match. Some goals are works of art. Some simply make a statement. Some are just scored at the perfect time.

Over the past five weeks, we've selected our favorite T90 goals for their style, execution, and importance.

#1 - Wayne Rooney quickly demonstrated that his lofty price tag was always going to be an investment, capping of a wonder-debut performance with a hat-trick at Old Trafford.

#2 - In the Italian season curtain raiser, and a match characterised by Inter's dogged determination, Figo's nerveless extra time free kick was the game's telling moment of class.

#3 The Anfield faithful craved a new striking hero and, in front of the home fans, in a heavyweight Premier League match against the Blues, Torres delivered in emphatic style.

#4 - Deep into injury time, Barcelona were going out of Europe. That was until the ball broke to Andres Iniesta and he spanked it into the top corner to send the Catalans through to the final.

#5 - Federico Macheda's sublime turn and shot snatched three vital championship-winning points for United. Some players don't have to dream about last minute winners.

Which one is your favorite T90 strike?

Have your say and don't miss a single Make The Difference moment. Follow Nike Soccer on Twitter, Facebook, and MySpace.

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Congratulations Ronaldo!

Posted by DonJulio Mar 3, 2010

A year ago the Phenomenon arrived in Corinthians, after 14 years defending European teams. Among feelings of mistrust and criticisms about his fitness, the forward, once again, surprised everyone.

Promptly, in his second game, he showed his mettle, and it couldn't have been better. Against Corinthian's greatest rival, he evened the score with a header at the 47th minute of the second half, driving the crowd wild.

From there, Ronaldo played 42 games and scored 24 goals. He was the high scorer in their undefeated run toward the Sao Paulo Championship with eight goals, and he was key to winning the Brazilian Cup, which ensured Corinthians a spot in the Libertadores Cup.

The team's priority this season is the South American title, which is not in the phenomenon's list of accomplishments; he has already stated that he wants to celebrate this victory with Corinthians' fans on the 100th anniversary of the team.

And when Ronaldo wants something, he usually gets it.

Have your say and don't miss a single Make The Difference moment. Follow Nike Soccer on Twitter, Facebook, and MySpace.


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100 days to South Africa

Posted by DonJulio Mar 3, 2010

In his last international challenge before the greatest tournament, Brazil beat Ireland 2-0 with a noteworthy performance by Robinho, who was involved in both goals.

Victory is an important chapter in the preparation for the world championship. One hundred days from the starting whistle, Brazil continues to demonstrate through results and titles that they are on the right track.

But there is still much work ahead.

Have your say and don't miss a single Make The Difference moment. Follow Nike Soccer on Twitter, Facebook, and MySpace.

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Grassroots Give Hope

Posted by DonJulio Mar 3, 2010


What you do off the pitch can have as much impact as what you do on it.

As part of the Grassroot Soccer initiative, the commitment of coaches like Mooki, Precious, Kwinji and Bethembe are making a difference on the pitch and in life.

HIV/AIDS claimed 1.5 million lives in Africa in 2007, and it’s through the tireless work of the gamechanging organisations involved with enacting social change through football that the Grassroot Soccer campaign can spread its message.

Affected by HIV/AIDS in their own lives, the Grassroot Soccer coaches draw on personal experiences to help educate children about the virus and teach valuable life skills.

It’s just like Mooki says: “If they play and we teach them, the message gets home.

Support the Lace Up Save Lives campaign and help the educational fight against HIV/AIDS in Africa through programs like Grassroot Soccer.

Wear (NIKE)RED laces.


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Starting The Quest

Posted by DonJulio Mar 2, 2010

One of the last chances to impress before South Africa. One of the best teams in the world staring you down. And one cause bringing everyone together.

When the USMNT takes the field against the Netherlands in Amsterdam tomorrow (ESPN2 and Galavision, 2:30EST), for the first game in the brand new national team Away kit, players will be looking not only to solidify their positions, but solidify the greater soccer community around Lace Up Save Lives.

Just as in the other (RED) matches this week, players will wear (NIKE)Red laces and (NIKE)Red track jackets. A (NIKE)Red ball will be the official game ball.

Before the madness of summer arrives, now is the time to take stock, realize your potential, and start your quest to write history this summer.

Have your say and don't miss a single Make The Difference moment. Follow Nike Soccer on Twitter, Facebook, and MySpace.


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Bleed as One

Posted by DonJulio Mar 2, 2010


Despite pioneering one of the most brilliant styles of play ever seen in international football, the Dutch National Team has never realized its potential. Additionally, their fans have often seemed more interested in a beautiful showing than actually winning the game.

This year, all that changes.

This summer, the Dutch will need more than brilliant play; they'll need unity, resolve, and focus previously unseen in Dutch football. They'll have to give everything they have and sacrifice individual glory for a higher purpose - victory.

If they want to return from South Africa as champions, they have to come together as one and do what no Dutch team has done before.

They’ll have to bleed Orange for the cause.

Have your say and don't miss a single Make The Difference moment. Follow Nike Soccer on Twitter, Facebook, and MySpace.


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Ribery Is Back

Posted by DonJulio Mar 2, 2010

It’s already the last game before final squad announcements in mid-May.

But Ribery's back after months out.

While he was gone, there were narrow qualifications and plenty of controversy.

Can Franck solve all the difficulties the team faces?

He is the trigger, the player whose role is simply to make the difference, and that's the kind of pressure Ribery thrives on.

Have your say and don't miss a single Make The Difference moment. Follow Nike Soccer on Twitter, Facebook, and MySpace.

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Show Your Colors

Posted by DonJulio Mar 2, 2010

Tonight's friendly marks an important moment for many.

For the players, it's the last chance to make a point on the international stage before South Africa. For the fans, it's the chance to bask in Brazilian national pride. It's also the chance for everyone to show their support for those whose lives have been blighted by HIV/AIDS in Africa.

From the custom Nike(RED) ball to Adriano and Elano's (RED) laces, tonight is all about putting on a display of skill and solidarity. It might be a friendly in name, but for a team building a fearsome reputation based on a balance between talent and physicality, there's only ever one right result at the end of the 90.

The Nike Insider spent the day tracking the Brazil squad as they relaxed at their hotel and trained at the Emirates in preparation for this evening's match.

Follow the Nike Insider updates on Twitter from tonight's match and find out more about Nike(RED).

How do you think Brazil will line up tonight?

Have your say and don't miss a single Make The Difference moment. Follow Nike Soccer on Twitter, Facebook, and MySpace.

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National Teams Lace Up

Posted by DonJulio Mar 1, 2010

AIDS is a global pandemic, and so this week players from all over the world--from Korea to the Ivory Coast, to Brazil and Ireland, the United States and Netherlands, Portugal and China--will tie on (NIKE)RED laces and pull on (NIKE)RED track jackets for their mid-week international friendlies.

The laces are more than a symbol. Each pair of laces purchased supports Lace Up Saves Lives, a campaign created to fight HIV/AIDS in Africa using both education through sport and medication thru The Global Fund.

Led by (NIKE)RED's global ambassador Didier Drogba, who will take the field in London against Korea on Wednesday, athletes the world over are capitalizing on the increased attention on South Africa and the greater African continent to prove that soccer can indeed be much more than a game, and that the passion surrounding sport can be harnessed for the greater good.

Red netting will be used in the goals for the matches and a special (NIKE)RED ball will be used during the game to highlight the partnership.

Watch the games. Learn more about Lace Up Save Lives. Join the must-win battle against HIV/AIDS.

Brazil vs Ireland (3.2)
US vs Netherlands (3.3)
Portugal vs China (3.3)
Korea vs Ivory Coast (3.3)
Belgium vs Croatia (3.3)

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Timing Is Everything

Posted by DonJulio Mar 1, 2010

You're Manchester United's talisman and the star striker with 27 goals in all competitions; this is the first opportunity of the season to claim some silverware.

But you find yourself on the bench, rested because of a nagging injury.

You watch your team go a goal down and the player in your position score the equaliser. You watch and you wait.

You wait on the sideline as your number is shown on the board. You watch as the ball floats in from the right wing. You wait, timing your jump perfectly. You wait as the ball loops towards the top corner. You watch the ball hit the back of the net.

For Wayne Rooney, it's not a matter of if you will make the difference; it's when.

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Double Trouble

Posted by DonJulio Mar 1, 2010

Unbeaten at home, and with just eight goals conceded in 13 games, you could be forgiven for thinking that it would be business as usual at fortress Stamford Bridge.

No one told Carlos Tevez and Craig Bellamy.

The striking duo terrorized the Blues’ defense, and their tireless work rate and deadly finishing meant that they both left London with two goals apiece in a comprehensive 4-2 win.

Stamford Bridge is falling down...

Can they fire the Citizens to European qualification?

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Italy Calls, Champions Answer

Posted by DonJulio Mar 1, 2010

It’s time for the last test match for Italian national team before the end of the championship. This is a critical period of the season, and Lippi is ready to challenge the next opponent and charge up his players for South Africa.

Borriello and Pazzini are ready to light up Italian attack while Marchisio and Montolivo want to rule the midfield.

It isn't easy finding the right focus while the Serie A is still an open fight, but when you play with the defending world champions, you have to find that concentration.

This is only a test match, but to make the difference you always need a champion's determination.

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Brazil Bring It

Posted by DonJulio Mar 1, 2010

After the unveiling of the new national team kits last week, Brazilian players across the globe put in some scintillating performances over the weekend.

Alexandre Pato’s double guided the Rossoneri to victory to keep the pressure on the league leaders, while on the blue side of Milan, Maicon’s dynamic performance galvanised the Serie A champions; his equaliser sending Inter on their way to a crucial 3-2 away win to maintain their four-point lead.

It was another roaming full back, Dani Alves, who put in the hard yards to inspire Barcelona to victory and send the champions back to the top of La Liga. His telling assist made the difference in a tight game at the Nou Camp as Barca prevailed 2-1.

Players and managers talk about playing for the shirt, and with Brazil's (RED) friendly against the Republic of Ireland on March 3rd looming, it’s all about national pride this week.


Have your say and don't miss a single Make The Difference moment. Follow Nike Soccer on Twitter, Facebook, and MySpace.


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