Egypt came out in a 4-3-3 formation instead of their more aggressive 3-5-2 formation they've used all match. Also Zidan is starting on the bench. Cameroon brought out I think a 4-4-2 formation. I also say "pseudo" because I may have to walk the dog before half-time. Miserable weather to boot. 
First Half:
Cameroon has started off pushing the ball up field more, with strong volleys but struggling to finish. Egypt is a making some runs. First free kick near the goal is done by Housy and his attempt is saved by the keeper. Much more physical play, very similiar to an EPL match in intensity. Corner by Egypt is handled well by Cameroon.
My English sopcast stream is being overrun with Nigerian I believe. The Arsenal midfielder Alex Song is replaced by Binya. Song is limping, which does not bode well for Wegner's attitude.
Eto'o is being marked hard, and the Lions seem lost as to what to do without him free. Egypt has had several strong attacks with very good saves by Kameni.
It takes almost 30 minutes into the match before Eto'o gets his first crack at the net, but there is no one for the cross that would of put it in, so he shoots it wide.
Eto'o and the Egyptian keeper do some knee on shin dance, and Al Hadari is down. Eto' o shows genuine concern. Al Hadari is staying in for now.
The Stadium is just getting full. This match deserves a full house.
Atouba goes down for Cameroon right before half. Song is out, Mbia is hurt. Coach Pfister is probably pulling the last few strands of hair out.
First half summary: Egypt is running like fiends and getting some very strong shots on goal. Cameroon is tackling pretty aggressively, which may bite them if it goes the wrong way, Egypt is doing some nice flopping, but the Injuries (or the subs) will be the decider.
Second Half:
Kameni keeps up with his Man of the Match honors, keeping back charges from
Zidan appears, as Moteab goes off for Egypt. He of juggling boot.
Yellow card for atouba for knocking down Zidan. That will have him sitting out the next International match. I'm sure he's crying about that.
Mbami comes in substitution for Epalle, and they switch to a 4-3-3. It's like everyone is too scared to take the initiative to win.
Egypt just capitalized on a Cameroon defensive lapse. Rigberto Song had tied up Zidan, but left Aboutrika open for the poke in. That may be it, as Cameroon has had no solid attack for awhile. 1-0 Egypt.
A yellow card on #17. Hasayan for Egypt. Cameroon decides they want one too now a yellow card is called Idirisiu.
Roberto Song misses a nice chance on a header. And it's over. Egypt wins, 1-0.
Sunday, February 10, 2008
African Cup Pseudo Live Blog
Egypt/Cameroon battle for Group C title
We now have a third place winner already figured out. Now we just need to find out which Group C team will win the African Cup of Nations. How they got here, why I missed Thursday, and hope more inside.
Our finalists:
Egypt
Nickname: The Pharaohs
Name to Watch: Mohamed Zidan
They took out one of our favorite teams - the Elephants of Ivory Coast (or Cote d'Ivorie depending on your level of imperialism) in the semis, beat plucky Angola in the quarter finals, and won Group C beating Cameroon in their opening match 4-2, blanking Sudan 3-0 and playing a meaningless 1-1 tie with Zambia. Zidan had two very sweet goals in the tournament so far, as well as a great goal routine. His play is surprising since he plays sort of average for his home team of Hamburg, in the Bundesliga. Egypt is trying to show Africa their 2006 title was no fluke. Also, you can now switch religions without being condemned to death in Egypt. This may be of use down the road.
Scheduled Lineup: 1-Essam Al Hadari; 5-Shady Mohamed, 6-Hani Said, 20-Wael Gomaa, 14-Sayed Moawad; 8-Hosni Abd Rabou, 17-Ahmed Hassan, 7-Ahmed Fathi, 22-Mohamed Aboutrika; 10-Emad Moteab, 19-Amr Zaki
(AP Photo/Olivier Asselin)
Cameroon
(AP Photo/Olivier Asselin)
Nickname: Golden Lions
Player to Watch: Samuel Eto'o
They made it here by defeating home favorite Ghana 1-0 in the semis. But they needed extra time to edge Tunisia 3-2 in the Quarterfinals. They knocked around Sudan and Zambia after losing to Egypt in Group play. Keep an eye on Goalkeeper Carlos Kameni, who plays on one of the Spanish League teams. If they want to keep Egypt down, he will need to be in top form. Egypt will bring it, and often. The backs will have their hands full.
Scheduled Lineup: 1-Idriss Carlos Kameni; 8-Geremi, 2-Augustin Binya, 4-Rigobert Song, 5-Timothee Atouba; 10-Achille Emana, 15-Alexandre Song, 19-Stephane Mbia; 21-Joseph-Desire Job, 17-Mohamadou Idrissou, 9-Samuel Eto'o
Prediction: I still like Cameroon even though Egypt put the hurt to them in the first match of the cup. Egypt brings an attacking style of play, but Cameroon is no stranger to this, and can match up well with them.
Cameroon 3 - 2 Egypt
Tuesday, February 5, 2008
Drogba Unwilling to Sit Through Time-Share Presentation
Jean-Claude Djacus said the Confederation of African Football (CAF) had planned to give the award to the Chelsea forward but decided not to after he said he would not travel to the Togolese capital to collect it. Drogba's refusal to attend is not without reason. His team, Côte d'Ivoire, is in the middle of the African Nations Cup in Ghana and had a quarterfinal match on Sunday against Guinea. Flying to another country (albeit a nearby country) two nights before a big game doesn't seem like the greatest idea. Who were the geniuses that thought that it would be a good idea to have the awards ceremony during the largest African tournament?
Didier Drogba was the 2006 African Footballer of the Year and after a stellar campaign the past Premiership season with 33 total goals for Chelsea and the EPL Golden Boot, Drogba looked fit for a repeat performance. Yet, it appears the Confederation of African Football had different ideas.Ivory Coast striker Didier Drogba did not win the 2007 African Footballer of the Year award because he refused to attend Friday's ceremony in Lome, the team spokesman said on Monday.
The CAF awarded Mali International and FC Sevilla striker Frédéric Kanouté with the award instead. Kanouté collected his award along with a free 3-day vacation to one of three wonderful locations--Johannesburg, Darfur, or Ouagadougou--with airfare and lodging included.
African Cup Semi-Finals nailed down.
Egypt - Angola played a great match, and reaffirmed my belief that good ball can be played in the African Continent. Upstart Tunisia suprised Cameroon by scoring twice to tie the match, only to lose in extra time as Cameroon pulled it out. Excellent Monday action.
Monday's Matches
Egypt 2 - 1 Angola Angola lost this with defensive errors. The first being the hand ball which allowed for the Rabou PK. Man U's stud Manucho sent in an equalizer, before a miscue from the Angolan defense allowed the go ahead goal. I watched a large portion of this match at work, and it was some very back and forth balling. Made up for yesterdays' dogs. Egypt now gets to match up with Ivory Coast.
Tunisia 2 - 3 Cameroon
This one even topped the earlier match. Cameroon struck first scoring two goals, the second a free kick by Geremi that seemed to cinch the game. Newcastle can use you back in the lineup Geremi. But not so fast. Tunisia struck back and played an almost manic style of play, first with a free kick by Ben Saada, and then Chukhaoui equalized with an amazing handling of the cross. Tunisia was then spent, and hoped they could withhold until the penalty shootout phase. But no such luck. Two minutes into extra time, Mbia came through with the go-ahead score that would send Cameroon into the Semis, where they will face host Ghana.
Monday, February 4, 2008
Tunagonga-teremsha
That should be Swahili for "BEAT DOWN." Which is all you can say about Sunday's matches. There was nothing pretty about the outcomes, they seemed to be decided before the matches started. Nigeria were flatting than a warm guiness in the summer sun, and Guinea thought it was a friendly and brought their practice squad. That's the only way I can explain it. Or that Cote d'Ivorie are just that damned good and the level of play in Africa experiences a big drop off that they can't even fill out a 8 team bracket?
Sunday's Matches
Ghana 3 - 1 Nigeria
(called off for a Professional Foul)
Nigeria came out playing flat, flatter than I expected. For such an important match, they seemed to not be able to string passes together. Ghana had the crowd, but more importantly, they wanted this match more. They had to, going a man down with Mensah being sent off in the 20th minute. You know it's bad when the Nigerian Goalie apologizes for the Eissen goal. Which was a beauty by the way. The country has rallied around the Nigerian team, complete with their new name of Super Chickens. Indeed.
Cote d'Ivorie 5 - 0 Guinea
(Chelsea's best?)
The Elephants came out and rampaged. Poor Guinea, but the middle of the first half, it was obvious they were outmatched and were being outplayed. That was when Drogba picked apart their defense like he was giving clinics on how to run and shoot. After that the rout was one. The last few goals were very nicely executed, but they were against a beaten down and worn out Guinea defense, and they were just piling on at that point.
These were the beatdowns on Sunday, and not the American beatdown (which never happened).
Monday's Matches
Tunisia - Cameroon - Monday Cameroon advanced the last time the cup played, and then lost in a penalty shootout with Cameroon when their offense seized up. Eto'o will be marked heavily by Tunisian's defense, who will be tasked in keeping them in line.
Egypt - Angola - Monday Egypt feels confident now that they are back at full Strength. The question is if the Pharoahs can keep things rolling or will this plucky Angolan team pull out another sleeper victory.
Here is hoping these matches are a bit more exciting.
Friday, February 1, 2008
Nothing like a questionable draw
Two draws, one of them was well-played, but the other match was played by nancy boys too scared to lose. But now the quarterfinal matches are all filled out, and we're ready to move forward.
Thursday's Matches
Tunisia 0 - 0 Angola Both teams needed a draw, and they both acted like it. Too timid to play an aggressive style, and settled into a long ball, passing game of little consequence. I curse both teams for this, and I suspect the soccer gods will down on them. Before this match, I was thinking of putting Angola into the Semi-finals, but less now. Angola advanced for the first time ever.
Senegal 1 - 1 South Africa Now this was a match played by teams who knew they had little chance unless they won, but played strong. South Africa got things started with a really great von Heerden volley, that followed a really clinical example of a 6+ pass run starting at the keeper and ending in the back of the opponent's net. Senegal tied it up a Camara's score after getting behind a South African mistake.
No matches until the Quarter Finals on Sunday. I'm hoping to have a recap over the weekend before the Quarterfinal matches, and some predictions for the finals.
Thursday, January 31, 2008
Eto'o is Enough for Cameroon
Samuel Eto'o pulled a brace setting a new record in goals, and helping the Cameroonians reach the quarter finals. Meanwhile, Egypt squeaked in with a draw. Zambia and Sudan are on their way home as Group C has been settled.
Wednesday's Results
Cameroon 3-0 Sudan Eto'o's two goals pushed him ahead of Laurent Poku of the Ivory Coast, who previously held the record of African Cup Goals. The Barcalona striker has been a beast this tournament. He toyed with the Sudanese. I'm thinking he heard that his country received some camels from Libya, and was looking to put a request in for one.
Egypt 1-1 Zambia Egypt came out in their attack formation, determined to win and not hope for the draw. But once their first goal on a great volley that showed some great play. The play was almost dead as the feed outside was too hard, but Moawad made a great save and cross, and Zaki was there to place it in. Sweet! When Zambia equalized, they did it was equal panache, on a great finish by Katongo. The Danish footballer side-stepped the Egyptian defenders and settled it into the near post.
Cameroon will play the winner of Group D on Sunday.
Thursday's Matches
Senegal v South Africa, D, 17:00
Tunisia v Angola, D, 17:00
The last matches in group play, then a few days off before the quarter finals kick in on Sunday. Senegal and South Africa have little chance, and lots of luck will be needed. Primarily a clear victory in the Tunisia/Angola match. Senegal was picked to go far in the tourney, and now is likely going home. A sad state for them. Tunisia and Angola need to really draw for both to advance. Otherwise it will fall into one of those complicated goal differential equations that we'll skip for now.
Over the weekend we'll run a recap of the Tables, and highlight some of the nice scores so far. Mostly because I like watching video of little balls spinning around and hearing middle aged men scream in languages I can't yet dechiper.
Wednesday, January 30, 2008
Nigeria is bequested a gift, move on
Nigeria, whom I had written off for as done as a bad 419 scam, received some serious help from a suddenly inept Mali, and will now move forward. Ivory Coast took care of the business as expected. Nigeria will party on tonight, more out of relief than joy.
(SSOUF SANOGO/AFP/Getty Images)
Tuesday's Matches
Nigeria 2-0 Benin Benin was the team that was expected to not do well, but they just played all around poorly. Nigeria's first goal was a nice header at the end of a broken play following a free kick. Great finish, and you could see them gettting would up. Their second goal and they knew they had it in the bag. Nigeria now goes on to play host Ghana.
Ivory Coast 3-0 Mali Mali just screwed the pooch here. They played a great attacking game against Nigeria, and were able to keep them down. Perhaps Ivory Coast is just that good. Drogba got the party started for Ivory Coast with a nice clinical example of beating the defenders and then the keeper. But it was the header by Zorro on a corner kick that got the whole team celebrating. And the party was on. Ivory Coast goes on to play Guinea.
Wednesday's Matches
Cameroon v Sudan, C, 17:00
Egypt v Zambia, C, 17:00
Sudan is effectively out, but they can play the spoiler in this match if they can defeat Cameroon (unlikely, but nothing is unlikely). They need to play to win. Egypt is at the top of the table, but they still are not safe. A tie rolls them in easily, as does a win. A loss could backfire on them if Cameroon also wins. Three teams fighting for two spots. The conventional wisdom is that Egypt and Cameroon will advance, but I've been wrong before.
In other news, the family of Ghana's striker Gyan has received death threats over the quality of his play. The 22 year old missed a few chances in the earlier matches, and was booed lustily. He will need all the help he can get when Ghana goes after Nigeria.
Tuesday, January 29, 2008
Guinea and Ghana are moving on up...
Ghana breaks out the Rally Caps and uses the power of the home field (along with a touch of Essien) to put down Morocco, and move onto to the quarter-finals. Guinea needed only a draw, and they managed to do just that against a prideful Namibia squad who didn't fold when they could of.
Monday's Matches
Ghana 2 - 0 Morocco Michael Essien was the man of the match, showing the world why he's the best Chelsea striker that wears pants. Look at Essien's no-look volley for his first goal. Truly a work of high speed art. He follows that one up with a near post score that left the poor Moroccan goalie flat-footed. Morocco can always take solace in the fact they can soon shoot down the competition next time they fall behind.
Guinea 1 - 1 Namibia Guinea needed just a draw to move forward, and this match dragged out. They scored in the 62nd minute on a long ball that left Namibia defenders a bit off-guard. Namibia equalized it with a low strike, and they finished the match more stronger and more aggressive than Guinea.
Tuesday's Matches
Ivory Coast v Mali, B, 17:00
Nigeria v Benin, B, 17:00
Ivory Coast is assured of moving forward with their 2-0 record, but Mali needs at least a tie to be able to move forward. We'll see how lax Ivory Coast plays this one. Nigeria, on the other hand, is a loss away from losing their manager. Vogts will either step down, or he will be fired if Nigeria do not advance. Should he be on the block? Mali is a better team than they are given credit for. Nigeria has to beat Benin by two goals, and hope that Ivory Coast defeats Mali.
Other News
In other news, Egyptian midfielder Aboutrika showed off shirt under his uniform showing his support for Gaza. He's been warned, and he swears he won't do it again.
Meanwhile, South Africa is having major power problems. Due to strong growth, they are having problems meeting demands. Why is this a problem now? Well, in 2010, the World Cup is scheduled to be played there. Of course, Officials from South Africa rush to assure everyone there is no problem. Not at all. Personally, two years is too early to panic on such things. I like to save my panicking until the last moment, but I'm not much of a planner.
Read more on "Guinea and Ghana are moving on up..."...
Monday, January 28, 2008
A new week of Cup Action
After the bus accident, it all went downhill for Senegal on Sunday, as they were beaten in a Shocker (and not the shocker we all know and love) by Angola and Tunisia is sending South Africa back home sooner then expected.
Sunday's Matches
Senegal 1 - Angola 3 A total stunner to myself as I expected Senegal to take care of business. However, the power of the Header can not be denied, first with a Manuchu equalizer. Give him props, even if he plays for ManU. Then there was a brilliant header by Flavio which sealed the deal. Senegal will still probably advance, but Angola is one of the northern African suprises.
Tunisia 3-1 South Africa Less of a suprise, and more showing that many of what I call the Northern African teams are playing very inspired ball. Yet another sweet header by Dos Santos. These games were way better than the Saturday games, and makes up for the sloppy play.
Monday's Matches
Ghana 0-0 Morocco, A, 1700
Guinea 0-0 Namibia, A, 1700
Group A shows all four teams with the possibility of advancing, but Namibia is the slimmest of Chances. Ghana needs only a point to advance, and if that match is a graw Morocco will advance. It's all very muddled for these folks.
In Other News, the coach of Senegal resigns after the poor showing in their match on Saturday. Hey son, you still have one more match left. Suck it up and stick it out!
Also, you have to give it up to the Zambian president, who refused to pay African Cup Rights. President Mwanawasa (say that 3 times fast) feels that it would of been wrong to spend the money on television rights when they are trying to help flood victims. "You can imagine what you can do with 5 billion kwacha (1.2 million dollars), given this needy situation. Misplacing that priority would be like buying beer when people are suffering," was his comment. Well said, though it begs to wonder why the government has to pay for the cup rights. Oh yea, they control the television stations.
Sunday, January 27, 2008
Friday Saturday African Nation
I have no idea where Friday went. I do know where saturday went, and I want to thank those who brought me those brownies. Thanks. Friday's matches weren't very exciting, and Saturday's matches where all over before they started. We're all hoping Sunday will bring us back to some action more in line with what we've witnessed so far.
REUTERS/Finbarr O'Reilly
Friday's Results
Nigeria 0-0 Mali This doesn't look good for Nigeria, and for the first time in recent history, are in trouble of not advancing to the world cup. Mali played an attacking style and kept Nigeria out of the goal. They need to win their next match and hope Mali does not draw against Ivory Coast.
Ivory Coast 4-1 Benin Poor Benin. They were outplayed severly today. I won't even show any goals, because they are mostly examples of defenders poorly marking their players. If you need an example, you should watch the early part of the Liverpool Havant and Waterlooville match.
Saturday Results
Cameroon 5-1 Zambia The biggest news out of this match was Eto'o scoring his 14 goal in Cup play, which equals the old record, set almost 40 years ago. Even though this score was a bit lopsided, their was some fine scores: A nice free kick from Geremi was the sweetest goal of this contest. Eto'o was on a penalty kick which he should almost do blindfolded to give Zambia a chance. Now Zambia will be bag packing.
Egypt 3-0 Sudan Another match, where one side essentially outplayed the other. Egypt is making a strong showing so far with their style of play. Yet again, three goals that were more examples of defensive breakdown than superb play.
More match fixing The match fixing stories are starting to fly fast and furious now. Namibia were offered $30,000 per player to throw a match. I find this one specious - all Namibia had to do was show up and get their ass handed to them. They may be a team that believes in fair play, but they may also need to cash.
Sunday's Matches
Senegal v Angola, D, 17:00 These matches will sort out this group. Senegal played Tunisia to a 2-2 draw, while Angola drew with South Africa. Senegal should win this match, though it this group is proving to be the most interesting.
Tunisia v South Africa, D, 19:30Tunisia, who spent a good deal of time whining during their match with Senegal, will try their luck on their refs in this match. This one should be less interesting.
Friday, January 25, 2008
Guinea and Ghana take care of business
Guinea holds off the score-happy Moroccans in a surprising well played match while Ghana helps Nambia packs their bags for their trip home. Also, news on possible match-fixing has reared its head four days into the tournament. Sadly, I lost the office pool as I expected match fixing stories to come out on day two.
Thursday Results
Ghana 1-0 Namibia A closer game than one would have thought after Namibia's trouncing by Morocco two days prior, but swapping keepers is a worthy idea. The play was inspired but the result was probably set before the match started. Sorry Namibia.
Guinea 3-2 Morocco This match features some great ball play, more excellent goal scoring, and the tournament's first red card, a very nice unprofessional ankle kick. Guinea bounced back from their early lost to Ghana with great play from Pascal Feindouno, who then decided to pull a sweep the leg move on Morrocan midfieler Erbate in an off-ball incident. Morocco's first was a nice free kick just a few minutes into the match that left the keeper confused. After a second goal by Bangoura, Morocco scored on a brilliant strike to bring the match close. However, there was too much Feindouno: two goals on set pieces, and a red card. Well done.
Other News
In other news, there are stories surfacing that the Benin coach was asked to fix the Mali match. The mistake the gentleman made was that he approached the right team, but the wrong coach. You never ask a German to fix something unless you have some serious cash. They are always righteous. But he has a valid point - the smaller African counties can not pay their players that much, and the ones that don't play in larger leagues could always use the extra cash (forget that, most people could use the extra cash). We'll see if something comes out in the coming days on more stories on match-fixing.
Friday's Matches
Ivory Coast v Benin, B, 17:00 Speaking of match-fixing, they should not have to worry here, and Ivory Coast should be set to handle Benin with ease. Nothing against Benin, but with Drogba leading Ivory Coast, they will be motivated to play well or feel his wrath. For some reason I always think if Kevin Garnett when I see Drogba out on the pitch - fiercely competitive and unhappy with sloppy play.
Nigeria v Mali, B, 19:30 Expect this match to be a bit tighter, and Nigeria may play this one tense. They need to win or go home, and going home isn't an option to them right now. Mali is playing fairly inspired ball so far. Having an obscure music festival in their western desert doesn't hurt either.
Thursday, January 24, 2008
African Cup of Draws
Wednesday featured two very excellent matches, with some sweet long balls ending up in the back of the nets. While South Africa/Angola and Tunisia/Senegal both ended in draws, both matches featured late equalizers.
(AP Photo/Alastair Grant)
South Africa 1-1 Angola South Africa is claiming to be fielding a younger team, and are using that as an excuse in case they fail. Angola struck first, and looked solid. They ended up getting lack at about the 30 yard mark, and that was all it took for van Heerden's equalizer. Nice way to catch the defenders napping.
Tunisia 2 - 2 Senegal Senegal should of won this game outright. Even though Tunisia struck early and first, Senegal scored two and seemed to have the match in hand. But this late strike from outside the box salvages the draw for Tunisia.
Thursday Matches
Guinea v Morocco (1700) Guinea played well but lost against Ghana. Morocco played lights out against Namibia. Morocco won't be able to score at will against Guinea, but it will play well enough to win easily.
Ghana v Namibia (1900) West Ham defender John Paintsil is currently doubtful for Ghana due to a possible concussion, and it looks like they may have other injuries that could give them problems. Namibia needs a win or they're packing their bags.
Wednesday, January 23, 2008
Pharoahs feast on Cameroon
Two matches Tuesday in the African Cup, with Egypt laying the smack down on Cameroon, and Sudan returned to the pitch after a long absence, and then realized that they needed to practice more.
Both of these matches kick off Group D action. South Africa is not a strong favorite as I had first though to advance from this draw. Senegal seems to be the most polished squad, and I think the Tunisia match should be the most entertaining football of the two. Angola has the physical team, and will probably push around South Africa.
AP Photo/Rebecca Blackwell
Cameroon 2 - 4 Egypt
Zidan, Rabou, and Eto'o hogged all the scoring, and it took Cameroon a half before they woke up and played with any intensity. By that point, the match was essentially done. Zidan's goals were both great works of quickness and footwork; if I was smart enough, I would have video embedded, and not linked.
Sudan 0 - 3 Zambia
Finding something about this match was a daunting task. It was like we wanted to ignore Sudan for fielding a team based on players from the northern half of the country. I've always been a big fan of the theory that Sports can bring cultures and people together in ways that forced politicalization can't. But in this case, we're apt to see an early exit for the Sudanese team if they keep it up. Zambia scored in the second minute and controlled the play.
Wednesday's Matches
----
17:00 - Tunisia vs Senegal
19:30 - South Africa vs Angola
(Times in GMT of course)
Tuesday, January 22, 2008
Your African Cup of Joe
"When I Disguise My Body in the Shape of a Plane..."
(photo credit: ISSOUF SANOGO/AFP/Getty Images)
Some updates from Monday's action in the African Cup of Nations, with a match from Group A and two from Group B.
Group A: Namibia 1 - 5 Morocco
I don't know what was more suprising: The hat trick by Alloudi that broke Namibia, or the fact that no one showed up to watch this match in person. Thanks to the Interwebs, we can catch all these highlights. I expect someone to sniff Alloudi away from the UAE league if he keeps this up.
Group B: Nigeria 0 - 1 Ivory Coast
Nigeria, who has been urged to victory by their President, acted nonchalant , and it showed. Good score from Chelsea's own Salomon Kalou, who gave a little clinic in scoring. The video is sweet.
Group B: Mali 1 - 0 Benin
It seems as though trying to create a distraction didn't stop the nation of sand beat the might Benin. Learn more about other tiny African country and find out that they have a National Voodoo Day. This is something all of us can get behind. In the fight for the bottom of Group B, Kanoute banged in a PK in the 49th minute to set this match from dulling folks to sleep.
Tuesday's Preview:
Monday, January 21, 2008
African Cup of Nations Group D
Yesterday the African Cup of Nations kicked off with the hosts Ghana taking on Guinea. From all accounts, the Black Stars were buzzing offensively, and could have won by a much larger margin than 2-1 if they hadn't hit so much woodwork. At the same time, their defensive frailties were also evidentt, led by West Ham's John Paintsil.
Today's slate of games is highlighted by Ivory Coast vs. Nigeria, which is starting right now. Drogba vs. half of Portsmouth. It might be the game of the tournament, and if you can catch this thing at a bar or something, I think its worthwhile. Earlier, Morocco beat Namibia 5-1.
And finally, we reach the end of the line in our ANC preview. Group D lacks the sizzle of the rest of the field, so you EPL snobs can skip over the rest now, if you wish.
South Africa
Benny McCarthy was left in Northwest England, due to a fall out with Carlos Alberto Perreira , who decided to field a younger side with an eye towards the World Cup. I know nothing about the younger players, but they have some sweet names, like Excellent Walaza and Terror Fanteni. I'm expecting the future hosts to crash out in the first round.
Angola
Angola made it to Germany with a mostly domestic side, and the roster is more or less unchanged this time around. I remember the game they played against Portugal. They were a very physical team, with a bit of hardman-tackling thown in. Angola will make it out of the group.
Tunisia
These guys actually won the whole tournament four years ago, but they don't have much in terms of recognizable names.
Senegal
The shock of the 2002 world cup was when Senegal took down France in the first game. El Hadji Diouf remains, but the key player for the Senegalese is Mamadou Niang, who has been killing it for Marseille this year. Fulham fans are happy to see the useless Diomansy Kamara has been called into the squad, along with Ibrahim Sonko from Reading. Senegal will win the group.
Saturday, January 19, 2008
YOUR URGENT ASSISTANCE NEEDED PLEASE
It seems as though everyone is catching Football Spirit and the opening of the African nations Cup. Why Just this morning, I received the following note from an old friend:
DEAR FRIEND,
I AM MISS HABIBA KHALIFA, THE ONLY CHILD OF LATE ALHAJI AND MRS.KHALIFA ISSAH MY FATHER WAS A VERY WEALTHY HOTEL OWNER BASED IN LABADI, THE BEAUTIFUL BEACH RESORT CAPITAL OF GHANA BEFORE HE WAS POISIONED TO DEATH WITH TAINED ELEPHANT MEAT BY HIS BUSINESS ASSOCIATES ON ONE OF THEIR OUTING TO DISCUSS ON A BUSINESS.
BEFORE THE DEATH OF MY FATHER ON 29TH DEC 2005 IN A PRIVATE HOSPITAL HERE IN LABADI, HE SECRETLY CALLED ME ON HIS BEDSIDE AND TOLD ME THAT HE HAS A BANK OF HOTEL ROOMS THAT ARE HIS TO SHARE, HE USED MY NAME THE ONLY DAUGTHER FOR THE NEXT OF KIN IN DEPOSIT OF THE FUND. THESE HOTEL ROOMS ARE WORTH 28, 000, 000 EUROS.
HE ALSO EXPLAINED TO ME THAT IT WAS BECAUSE OF THIS HOTEL THAT HE WAS POISONED BY HIS BUSINESS ASSOCIATES, AND THAT I SHOULD NOT TRUST THE GOVERNMENT AND THAT I SHOULD SEEK A FOOTBALL TEAM FOR A PARTNER. PLEASE DEAR, I AM HONOURABLY SEEKING YOUR ASSISTANCE IN THE FOLLOWING WAYS.
1) I WILL REQUEST YOU TO COME TO LABADI (RESORT CITY) OF GHANA WHERE THESE ROOMS ARE BEING HELD TO MAKE THE TRANSFER FASTER.
3) HELP ME SECURE THE BOOKING OF THESE ROOMS AT THE PREVIOUSLY AGREED UPON RATE.
MOREOVER, PLEASE, I AM WILLING TO OFFER YOU THESE ROOMS FOR 30% OF THE TOTAL SUM AS COMPENSATION FOR YOUR EFFORT/INPUT AFTER THE SUCCESSFUL TRANSFER OF THESE BEAUTIFUL ROOMS TO YOUR FOOTBALL TEAM. FURTHER MORE, YOU CAN INDICATE YOUR OPTION TOWARDS ME ASSISTING YOU TO COMPLETE OUR TRANSACTION WOULD BE CONCLUDED WITHIN SEVEN (7) DAYS YOU SIGNIFY INTEREST TO ASSIST ME.
ISHA-ALLAH, YOU WILL NOT REGRET ASSISTING ME.
I hope that everyone is as eager for the Games to start as I am. Most of the EPL teams are starting to whine with their loss of players, but some of the more fearsome teams have come from West Africa (Nigeria always seems to stand out). And since sports is one of those healthy (and legal) economic ladders out of poverty, the game has a very serious quality. Read more on "YOUR URGENT ASSISTANCE NEEDED PLEASE"...
Thursday, January 17, 2008
African Cup of Nations: Group C
It's only a few more days until the African Cup of Nations or the African Cup or the National African Cup starts up! To help you keep your Pantsils from bunching up, here's a rundown of the teams that comprise Group C:
Cameroon
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Key Players: Samuel Eto'o (Barcelona), Geremi (Newcastle), Alex Song (Arsenal), Carlos Idriss Kameni (Espanyol), Andre Bikey (Reading)
On paper, Cameroon have one of the strongest squads at the African Cup, with quite a number of famous players from the English Premier League (no, not you, Alex Song). And then there is the very-well-known striker for Barcelona whose name is Eto'o and who was recently given a special exemption to play a couple more league games before traveling to join the Indomitable Lions. Eto'o is healthy for once. So, the question is whether Cameroon can come together in time to punt the ball up to Eto'o and hope that he creates a decent amount of goals. Just guessing that'll be their strategy.
As the World Cup Blog has pointed out, Cameroon's new coach Otto Pfister was famous for some interesting fashion choices and/or appearing drunk in public when he was in charge of Togo at the 2006 World Cup. Will Pfister stay sober long enough to guide the Indomitable Lions deep into the tournament? As for the knockout stage, Cameroon will have something extra to play for against Egypt, who were responsible for keeping Cameroon out of the last World Cup.
Egypt
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Key Players: Mido (Middlesbrough), Hossam Ghaly (Derby), Mohamed Barakat (Al-Ahly), Ahmed Hassan (Anderlecht) and a bunch of players from the Egyptian League
Defending champs Egypt don't have a lot of players who you've heard of. Nevertheless, they've won the African Cup of Nations five times, most recently as the host nation in 2006. The Pharaohs will be without the injured Mido and Hossam Ghaly, who needs to concentrate on being a member of Derby County FC (it takes a lot of concentration to be utterly useless). Instead, Egypt will be returning with twelve players from their 2006 champion squad, including Ahmed Hassan, who will be playing in his record-tying seventh African Cup.
Zambia
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A definite underdog to make it past Cameroon and Egypt. Things are bad for Zambia, whose national television station failed to come up with the requisite money to show the African National Cup. And you thought that Direct TV, MLB TV and Setanta were evil monopolies? Tragedy has actually long been a part of Zambian football. Members of the national team were killed in a plane crash in 1993, with family members having to wait almost a decade for answers on what happened.
It's okay, Zambia. You still have Victoria Falls, which I remember from geography class is the largest waterfall in the world.
Sudan
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Although Sudan was one of the teams in the inaugural African Nations Cup and were champions in 1970, this is the first year that the Desert Hawks have qualified since the 1970s. All of Sudan's players come from the Sudanese League and, uh, sorry, but I'm not going to pretend that I have anything else to say on the subject.
Coming soon, last but not least, it's Group D!
Wednesday, January 16, 2008
Words Fail Me
Meet Agorohene, the official mascot of the 2008 African Cup of Nations. IT'S A REALLY BIG BIRD. IT WEARS CROSS COLOURS GEAR AND PLAYS SOCCER. Crap, I need to lie down. Read more on "Words Fail Me"...
Monday, January 14, 2008
African Cup of Nations Group B Preview
While home fans will be focused on the exploits of the Black Stars in Group A, this is probably the "Group of Death." You have Nigeria, the traditional giants of African football who have fallen on hard times lately, and Ivory Coast, the pretenders to the the throne, along with a respectable Mali side and Benin. So lets get on with part II of our endless ANC preview, mostly thieved from elsewhere on the interwebs, and full of uninformed speculation.
Nigeria
Key players: Obafemi Martins, John Obi Mikel, Kanu, John Utaka, Yakubo
The Super Eagles are stacked in attack, but perhaps a bit suspect in the back. Danny Shittu, anyone? And apparently Berti Vogts is going to go with a midfield that may not actually contain any, you know, midfielders. Given the amount of, um, strong personalities on this team, and the unbalanced selection, it wouldn't be surprising to see Nigeria bounced early, but the smart money says they at least get out of the group.
Ivory Coast
Key players: Drogba, Drogba, Drogba, Drogba, Drogba, Drogba
The Elephants were one of the most impressive teams at the last World Cup, even though they failed to make it out of the group stage. Didier Drogba, if he is actually healthy, is perhaps the best striker in the world, and that is coming from an Arsenal fan who regards him as a cheating shitbag most times. But he is fun to watch when he is on form. Ivory Coast is solid in the back with half of Wenger's preferred defenders in Kolo Toure and Emannuel Eboue, as well as Meite from Bolton. Like Nigeria, they are perhaps a bit short on traditional midfielders, but look for Aruna Dindane, currently at Lens, to have a big tournament and attract some transfer speculation. My pick to upset the hosts and hoist the trophy.
Mali
Key players: Momo Sissoko, Mahamadou Diarra, Fredick Kanoute
With some solid talent playing in Spain, this is a team that could surprise a few people. Keita, who has been instrumental in Sevilla's season so far is a player to watch, while Kanoute should supply the firepower up front. I have literally never even heard of any of the defenders, so I can't really comment, but they mostly play in France so I'm sure they are at least decent. P.S. - FSC should totally get French soccer back, even if just for the Lyon games.
Benin
Key players: Some dude who plays for the best named team in English football, Acrrington Stanley.
This team is definitely the minnow of the group, with only (by my idiot count) four players who ply their trade in Europe. They also have a guy from Etoile Sahel, the Tunisian side that Christopher Sullivan couldn't stop slobbering over during the World Club Championships in December.
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