Lessons Learned from This Weekend's Group C Friendlies

source: Active Images

Both the United States and England played pre-World Cup friendlies this weekend. The United States played Turkey in Philadelphia (elevation 39 feet) on Saturday. England, on the other hand, played Japan in Graz, Austria (elevation 1,158 feet). Both matches were roller coasters, both matches had their shocking moments and both have left the fans and followers of Group C talking.

U.S. vs. Turkey
U.S. soccer fans everywhere had their eyes turned to Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia to see Bob Bradley's starting lineup. But when Bradley sent the squad out in a 4-4-1-1 formation with Michael Bradley anchoring a (theoretically) fluid midfield and an on-again-off-again attack comprised of Jozy Altidore as a lone striker and Clint Dempsey in support, confusion and bewilderment ensued.

The first half wasn't disastrous, but it was pretty close. The Turks easily and continuously exploited a cardboard like defense on lightening fast counter attacks. To be honest, the U.S. was lucky to get out of the first half with only one goal against them. The second half was a bit more promising when Bradley shook things up and added (among others) Real Salt Lake forward Robbie Findley to the mix and returned the formation to a more familiar 4-4-2. Robbie's pace and added attacking presence forced Turkey to adjust and play more conservatively. After Robbie helped to set up one goal, Dempsey put in a second, the Yanks won the game 2-1.

England vs. Japan
Man, oh man, was this match a shocker. Fabio Capello went into the match looking to finalize the last 3 spots up for grabs on his final 23 man roster. However, what he got was a bucket of cold water to the face after Japan scored a goal against the run of play in the 6th minute and continued to use their pace to frustrate the Three Lions' concerted build up play.

England's defenders and holding midfielders kept most of the possession and used most of it amongst themselves, with the occasional hopeful (and often unsuccessful) long ball to the forwards. And while England's a handful of changes made a slight change of tempo and complexion to the game, the Three Lions never got out of second gear. And it was luck and lack of experience on behalf of Japan that allowed England's wingers to create two own goals and get away with a 2-1 victory and a little bit of their dignity.

Lessons learned:

• The hype may be getting to England, but this wake up call could be dangerous for the U.S.. There's nothing more dangerous than a wounded animal looking to redeem itself.
• Rooney may be an X factor in every game he plays, but he will not be able to carry the Three Lions through the tournament.
  
• After watching the difficulty players like Rooney, Lampard and Gerrard were having trying to control the official match ball, it's clear that the ball will be a huge factor in who claims the World Cup Trophy this summer.
• The U.S. has some serious problems when it comes to balancing work rate, experience and pace in their formations.
• Dempsey may not have the best left foot, but he belongs on the wing.
• Findley may not be the pity project we had all previously thought.

The biggest takeaway point, though? Friendlies probably don't even matter.

Any other take away points from this weekend in terms of how Group C might turn out? How about your thoughts on Algeria's annihilation at the hands of the hard done by Ireland?

Why Jozy Just Isn't Enough

When Bob Bradley announced his final 23 man roster of the World Cup on Tuesday, the biggest shock for most people was his selection of attackers: Jozy Altidore, Edson Buddle, Robbie Findley and Hurculez Gomez.

At 20 years old, Villareal's Jozy Altidore leads the group with 24 senior team appearances and 8 goals. Buddle, Findley and Gomez have just 9 appearances and 1 goal between them. An experienced front line this is not. So when international sites such as Australia's SBS.com.au point out that the US has hung its hopes on Altidore, they're on to something.

The cold hard fact of the matter is that Altidore is not enough. While he had some moments of pure brilliance in the Saturday match again Turkey and his domineering physical presence was used to great effect during the USMNT's shock win over Spain in last year's Confederations Cup, he is far from a prolific scorer. He has averaged just one goal every 17 appearances at the club level outside of the United States and just one goal every 3 games at the international level. And let's face it, one goal from him in the group stage will not be enough to get the team through.

Not to mention, if his loan at Hull City FC in England is any indication of how he'll fare against English opposition, then we can expect little but frustration out of him when he comes up against a defense well versed in dealing with powerful strikers. And if his young, hot-headed nature gets the best of him early in the group stage, a red card becomes a real possibility.

So although I've been slapped around for asking this question before: Where are the goals going to come from?

And if we're relying on Dempsey and Donovan to provide the goals from the midfield, then how are we locking down the lightening transition play of the world powers? Does this mean we're looking at a 4-5-1 setup (a setup which has been used to disastrous effect by the Yanks in the past)? I remain hopeful, but incurably skeptical.

World Cup Predictions: Group G

Group G: Brazil, North Korea, Ivory Coast, Portugal

Players to Watch:
Kaka (Brazil)
Kim Jong-il, yes that Kim Jong-Il (North Korea)
Didier Drogba (Ivory Coast)
Cristiano Ronaldo (Portugal)


Match to Watch:
Ivory Coast vs. Portugal
June 15, 10:00 A.M. (ESPN)


Predictions:

Ivory Coast vs. Portugal
June 15, 10:00 A.M. EDT (ESPN)
Three words: Group. Of. Death. It's a shame Portugal won't be getting out of this group, seeing as they're such gracious losers. Their fall will start with the game against the favorite sons of Africa, the Ivory Coast. While they may even take an early lead, Ronaldo's tendency to go AWOL when playing a team any more difficult than the St. Ignatius JV squad means that they will lack the spark and class needed to get out of this game with points and eventually out of this group.
Result: CIV 2 - 1 POR

Brazil vs. North Korea
June 15, 2:30 P.M. EDT (ESPN)
The last time North Korea saw action in the World Cup was 1966. During their trip to England, they made a run to the quarter finals, beating Italy and tying Chile along the way before losing to Portugal in a dramatic 5-3 match. While many people are quick to draw parallels between 1966 and 2010 - little is still known about or expected from this year's North Korean sqaud - they will not be able to make much of this group. Brazil will run them ragged.
Result: BRA 4 - 0 PRK

Brazil vs. Ivory Coast
June 20, 2:30 P.M. EDT (ABC)
This match has all the potential for being an incredible, classic group stage match. Both teams are the pride of their confederations and both play brazenly unapologetic attacking football. Expect goals but expect Brazil's experience to shine through.
Result: BRA 3 - 2 CIV

Portugal vs. North Korea
June 21, 7:30 A.M. EDT (ESPN)
The wheels will come off the Portugal party wagon during this match. Their tempermental attitude combined with their crippling inconsistencies will bring out the worst in the team as they face an opponent unlike any other they have met in the past 40 years. North Korea's compact defense will frustrate a Portugal side which will feel entitled to crush the groups least favorite team to advance. A goalless train wreck will result.
Result: POR 0 - 0 PRK

North Korea vs. Ivory Coast
June 25, 10 A.M. EDT (ESPN 2)
No matter what little consolation the North Koreans will take away from their point against Portugal, the reality will set in. They may have poured water into an already sinking Portugal boat, but King Makers this team ain't. The Ivory Coast will take the points in hopes of edging Brazil out of the top spot on goal differential.
Result: PRK 0 - 2 CIV

Portugal vs. Brazil
June 25, 10 A.M. EDT (ESPN)
Say what you want about Portugal, but they will certainly make the drama in this group compelling - and this group will have drama galore. When explaining why Brazil will win this game, I return to the fact that Portugal's focus point, the incredibly gifted Cristiano Ronaldo, simply does not deliver the goods (or often even the goals) during big games for either club or country. This becomes an systemic problem when the team is built around his skill ... which, with a once in a generation player like Ronaldo, it always is. Brazil may not win this World Cup (no Confederations Cup champion has ever won the World Cup the next year), they will win this match and make it a perfect 3-0 in group stage games.
Result: POR 1 - 2 BRA


Final standings:

USMNT World Cup Squad Announced

U.S. Men's National Soccer Team head coach Bob Bradley announced his final 23 man roster for the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa. The US begins its World Cup group play against the Three Lions of England on Saturday, June 12 (2:30pm EDT, ABC)

The 23 players who will be on the plane to South Africa to represent the United States of America in the world's largest single sporting event are:

GOALKEEPERS (3)

Tim Howard
Age: 31
Club: Everton FC






Brad Guzan
Age: 25
Club: Aston Villa






Marcus Hahnemann
Age: 37
Club: Wolverhampton Wanders







DEFENDERS (7)

Carlos Bocanegra (C)
Age: 30
Club: Rennes






Jonathan Bornstein (Chivas USA)
Age: 25
Club: Chivas USA






Steve Cherundolo
Age: 31
Club: Hannover






Jay DeMerit
Age: 30
Club: Watford






Clarence Goodson
Age: 27
Club: Start






Oguchi Onyewu
Age: 27
Club: AC Milan






Jonathan Spector
Age: 24
Club: West Ham United







MIDFIELDERS (9)

DaMarcus Beasley
Age: 27
Club: Rangers






Michael Bradley
Age: 22
Club: Borussia Mönchengladbach






Ricardo Clark
Age: 27
Club: Houston Dynamo






Clint Dempsey
Age: 27
Club: Fulham






Landon Donovan
Age: 28
Club: LA Galaxy






Maurice Edu
Age: 24
Club: Rangers






Benny Feilhaber
Age: 25
Club: Aarhus






Stuart Holden
Age: 24
Club: Bolton






José Torres
Age: 22
Club: Pachuca







FORWARDS (4)

Jozy Altidore
Age: 20
Club: Villarreal






Edson Buddle
Age: 28
Club: LA Galaxy






Robbie Findley
Age: 24
Club: Real Salt Lake






Herculez Gomez
Age: 28
Club: Puebla






The next step? A match against Turkey on Saturday, May 29 (2:00pm EDT, ESPN 2), then to South Africa for training, including a final friendly against Australia on June 5 (8:30 EDT, ESPN 2).

World Cup Predictions: Group F

Group F: Italy, Paraguay, New Zealand, Slovakia

Players to Watch:
Andrea Pirlo (Italy)
Christian Riveros (Paraguay)
Shane Smeltz (New Zealand)
Stanislav Sestak (Slovakia)


Match to Watch:
Slovakia vs. Italy
June 24, 10:00 A.M. (ESPN)


Predictions:

Italy vs. Paraguay
June 14, 2:30 P.M. EDT (ABC)
It's hard to say that a team with Italy's accomplishments is an unknown quantity. But let's face it, they're a bit of an unknown quantity for this tournament. Yes, they are a team to be respected and yes, they have the potential to become repeat champions, but they're aging line-up has been less than completely impressive during their qualifying and Confederations Cup runs. I'm expecting Italy to scrape their way through the group stages with a few draws, starting with one against Paraguay.
Result: ITA 1 - 1 PAR

New Zealand vs. Slovakia
June 15, 7:30 A.M. EDT (ESPN)
The All Whites of New Zealand have two paths ahead of them for this tournament. They will either bounce out of the tournament with three loses, or become king makers in this tournament with one or two absolute shocking results. I'm a pragmatist, so while I'm happy to see New Zealand making their first World Cup appearance in 28 years, I don't think they'll be able to make much of it.
Result: NZL 0 - 3 SVK

Slovakia vs. Paraguay
June 20, 7:30 A.M. EDT (ESPN)
This match will determine second place in the group. Paraguay's dynamic attack will overpower Slovakia's measured European mindset. La Albirroja will be in the ascendency after their opening draw against the reigning champions and will prove too much for the Slovaks, but only just.
Result: SVK 0 - 1 PAR

Italy vs. New Zealand
June 20, 10:00 A.M. EDT (ESPN)
Italy may have its early stumbling blocks and may even crash out of the tournament during the second round. But New Zealand's toughened work ethic will not be one of the many problems pestering Lippi's side.
Result: ITA 1 - 0 NZL

Slovakia vs. Italy
June 24, 10 A.M. EDT (ESPN)
Going into the final day, Italy and Paraguay will be sitting on 4 points, Slovakia on 3 points, and New Zealand on 0 points, making the Slovakia vs. Italy game the game to watch. Slovakia will be looking to take the full three points to pull the shocker of the tournament by shoring up a qualifying place at Italy's expense. The Azzuri, on the other hand, will need to take only one point from the match to edge their way into the knock-out rounds. A hard fought draw will ensue.
Result: SVK 2 - 2 ITL

Paraguay vs. New Zealand
June 24, 10 A.M. EDT (ESPN)
Paraguay will be more than pleased with their fixture schedule. Having the group whipping boys on the final day will be a great way to solidify top spot in the group and gain some much needed momentum for the knockout round, where they will likely meet Cameroon. New Zealand will be looking for, at the very least, a consolation goal.
Result: PAR 2 - 1 NZL


Final standings:

World Cup Predictions: Group E

Group E: Netherlands, Denmark, Japan, Cameroon

Players to Watch:
Arjen Robben (Netherlands)
Christian Poulsen (Denmark)
Yasuhito Endo (Japan)
Samuel Eto'o (Cameroon)


Match to Watch:
Netherlands vs. Cameroon
June 12, 2:30 P.M. (ABC)


Predictions:

Netherlands vs. Denmark
June 14, 7:30 A.M. EDT (ESPN)
The name of the game in this group will be explosive offenses. With the exception of Japan. And the exception of this opening game. As for this first match, it is Hamlet versus the Boy with his finger in the Dyke. On one hand, you have the predictability of a Dutch offense in the group stage. They chop, they slice, they dice, but wait there's more! While the Danish are a respectable European side with a little more of a question mark. In the end, Van Persie, Robben, Kuyt, Van Bommel and Sneijder will be too much for the Danes.
Result: NED 2 - 1 DEN

Japan vs. Cameroon
June 14, 10:00 A.M. EDT (ESPN)
While Japan has grandiose ambitions and some measured recent success, they will not fair well in South Africa. With the likes of the Dutch, the Danes and the Cameroonians (?), this group is in need of a whipping boy, and the Blue Samurai fit the bill.
Result: JPN 1 - 2 CMR

Netherlands vs. Japan
June 19, 7:30 A.M. EDT (ESPN)
Asian teams are known for their speed, discipline and dynamic close control. Too bad Japan is playing the Netherlands. While anything can happen in a World Cup, it won't happen for Japan in this game.
Result: NED 3 - 0 JPN

Cameroon vs. Denmark
June 19, 2:30 P.M. EDT (ESPN 2)
Ok, so I like 2-1 as a score for this group. It's pretty simple, though: International games are rarely blow-outs and the teams in this group isn't known for defense. As for deciding who gets the two goals and who goes home with only one, I'm going (once again) with the de facto home soil advantage the African teams have in this world cup.
Result: CMR 2 - 1 DEN

Cameroon vs. Netherlands
June 24, 2:30 P.M. EDT (ESPN 2)
Each group always has the game that decides who will be first and who will be second. Some times it involves an unfathomable result wherein the clear favorite drops two or all three points against underdog opposition. However, for this group, it is the much more direct - if not less compelling - match up of the Netherlands, who enter the tournament with incredible confidence in their offensive capabilities, and Cameroon, who are looking to impress on their home soil. The deciding factor? Cameroon's inconsistent defense.
Result: CMR 0 - 1 NED

Denmark vs. Japan
June 24, 2:30 P.M. EDT (ESPN)
In this scenario I have dreamed for myself, Denmark and Japan are playing for nothing but pride. But when it comes to the World Cup, pride is everything. I may be a bit unable to think outside the box, but I still don't see any situation in which Japan leaves this group with anything but four years worth of World Cup homework to think about.
Result: DEN 2 - 0 JPN


Final standings:

What is "Success" for Soccer in the US?

photo: Columbus, Ohio International Visitors Council

With the fair-weather U.S. soccer frenzy that is the World Cup coming up in just over two weeks, a lot of dialogue will be focused on just how big soccer is in America. From soccer fanatics spreading the word about the global significance of the tournament to the debutante parties being declared for the American soccer fan, I find myself asking: "What's the endgame? What is "success" for the soccer movement in the United States?"

Is it soccer as the most popular sport in America?

Is it a 30 team MLS?

Is it an American media corps and public at large literate in the sport?

Is it a World Cup semi-final appearance by the US Men's National Team?

Or is it some obscure "respect" for the game?

Whatever it is, I think we need to be realistic with our expectations. Enough of this obsession with why Americans "don't like soccer." Enough with the "but it's so popular everywhere else!" And for God's sake, enough with trying to convince other fans that soccer is simply better than baseball, football, basketball or hockey.

The soccer landscape in the U.S. is going to be drastically different 15 years from now. But I'm unsure if we would count it as a "success" as meeting our halfheartedly defined objectives for what soccer "should be" in this country.

For my two cents, I count success as the day when I no longer have to explain why I love the sport to every person I meet at a bar.

What do you think?

Nike 'Write the Future' Ad Features Drogba, Rooney, Cristiano Ronaldo, Ronaldinho, Ribery, Cannavaro

This ad is nearly perfect.

Does the UEFA Champions League Final Matter in the US?

The final of the UEFA Champions League will be broadcast live this afternoon on FOX broadcast affiliates in the United States. For the first time in the history of the competition, the final of Europe's most prestigious club competition will be available on a major broadcast network during a weekend afternoon.

This is all good and well for those of us who now no longer need to an excuse to take a skip work during the week to see the final, but what will does it mean for the average Joe in America who may not currently follow soccer but may not be totally opposed to the possibility of becoming a nascent fan? In other words, does FOX's recent success with televised soccer in the US translate to more soccer fans or just happier existing fans?

The Champions League final (May 22, 2:45 p.m. EDT on FOX) will be contested by Bayern Munich and Inter Milan, two teams with tame fan followings in the States. The final is also competing with a handful of baseball games and the first games in the NBA conference finals. Not to mention, I have seen precious little advertising outside of the regular channels used to reach American Soccer Junkies like myself.

While I remain skeptical regarding the notion that the Champions League final being broadcast on a national network on a Saturday afternoon is a victory for soccer in the States, the ratings will be crucial in determining just how successful FOX's new investment in televised soccer will be. But for now, speaking as a soccer fan who grew up in constant frustration that I was unable to watch the sport I love, I must say that I'm happy FOX has the Champions League rights and that it gave the final to its national broadcast affiliates.

World Cup Predictions: Group D

Group D: Germany, Australia, Serbia, Ghana

Players to Watch:
Miroslav Klose (Germany)
Tim Cahill (Australia)
Dejan Stankovic (Serbia)
Michael Essien (Ghana)


Match to Watch:
Germany vs. Ghana
June 23, 2:30 P.M. (ESPN)


Predictions:

Serbia vs. Ghana
June 13, 10:00 A.M. EDT (ABC)
Defense will make or break this group and in this first match has a world class back line against a hap-hazard transitional defense. However, once again, I'm going to value Ghana's recent victory at the U20 World Cup and the impending rise of African soccer over Serbia's battle-hardened class.
Result: SER 0 - 1 GHA

Germany vs. Australia
June 13, 2:30 P.M. EDT (ABC)
Never underestimate Germany. Or Australia's sporting prowess. This match will be indicative of each country's run this time around. In the end, Australia's class will show and they'll scrape away with a point out of this encounter.
Result: GER 1 - 1 AUS

Germany vs. Serbia
June 18, 7:30 A.M. EDT (ESPN)
Germany's hopes going into this World Cup are measured, guarded. Their roster is aging and lacks the one or two superstars they've been accustomed to. Serbia, on the other hand, is filled with a giddy optimism coming off a sensational qualification run. However, this is the match that will bring about reality for both teams.
Result: GER 2 - 0 SER

Ghana vs. Australia
June 19, 10:00 A.M. EDT (ESPN)
As with every other team aiming for a second place finish, this match will be crucial for both Ghana and Australia. Expect an exciting match with Australia's experience to come out on top.
Result: GHA 1 - 2 AUS

Ghana vs. Germany
June 23, 2:30 P.M. EDT (ESPN)
By the third game, it will be clear that Ghana's ambitions have exceeded the squad's capabilities. Hoping for points against a warmed-up Germany team will not be enough to get Ghana through. On the other hand, Germany will be hungry for the win to sew up top spot against a threatening Australia.
Result: GHA 1 - 2 GER

Australia vs. Serbia
June 22, 10 A.M. EDT (ESPN 2)
Vidic, Ivanovic and Stankovic may be a force to be reckoned with in the backfield, but Serbia will have problems going forward against an Australian midfield packed with athletic, scrappy players who can keep up with the toughest of them. This game will not be nice to watch, but the Socceroos will come out on top and sew up second place, even with Germany on points, but behind on goals.
Result: AUS 1 - 0 SER


Final standings:

Why isn't the USMNT at an Alpine Training Camp?

England is holding an alpine training camp in Austria.

Spain and the Netherlands also are joining the Three Lions in the land of the Von Trapps.

France is having its own high altitude camp in the French Alps.

Defending champions Italy will set up their own training camp in the Alps next week.

And a handful of other teams from South Korea to Japan to Australia, Argentina and Brazil are taking training for the altitude in South Africa into serious consideration early in their training plans.

So why is Bob Bradley having his 30 man provisional camp in Princeton, New Jersey at a staggering altitude of just 98 feet above sea level?

World Cup Predictions: Group C

Group C: England, USA, Algeria, Slovenia

Players to Watch:
Wayne Rooney (England)
Jozy Altidore (USA)
Karim Ziani (Algeria)
Milivoje Novakovic (Slovenia)


Match to Watch:
England vs. USA
June 12, 2:30 P.M. (ABC)


Predictions:

England vs. USA
June 12, 2:30 P.M. EDT (ABC)
For US fans this match can be summed up in one word: "Epic." Both Number 10's have had a hell of a past 12 months. England is looking to make good on its ever elusive birthright of a second World Cup. But England never makes anything easy for itself and drama almost always ensues. I'm predicting either a humdrum 1-0 win to either side or an explosive 3-2 win for England. And since I'm feeling risky today, I'm going with the 3-2.
Result: ENG 3 - 2 USA

Algeria vs. Slovenia
June 13, 7:30 A.M. EDT (ESPN)
It would be easy to write off Algeria and Slovenia as lost causes and means to and end for England and the USA ... but I'm going to take the easy way out. Algeria will have discipline problems when a well-ordered deep midfield would probably suit them better. They'll be struggling for goals let alone points.
Result: ALG 0 - 2 SVN

Slovenia vs. USA
June 18, 10:00 A.M. EDT (ESPN)
This match is crucial for the US. No matter what happens in their opener with England, the US will need to take full points from their ecounter with Slovenia in order to remain the masters of their own fates going into the final group match.
Result: SVN 0 - 1 USA

England vs. Algeria
June 18, 2:30 P.M. EDT (ESPN 2)
If England can't win this game, they have more problems than whose baby mama former captain John Terry has nailed.
Result: ENG 3 - 0 ALG

Slovenia vs. England
June 22, 10 A.M. EDT (ESPN)
Believe it or not, this game may be the most important match that the US won't play. Depending on how the points have fallen, this game may either decide if the US places first, second or third in the group. England may falter a bit in the face of stiff continental opposition.
Result: SVN 1 - 1 ENG

USA vs. Algeria
June 22, 10 A.M. EDT (ESPN 2)
This game is the very definition of a "must win" scenario for the Yanks. In fact - I'll be one of the first to say it, Landon Donovan's US international legacy may depend on the outcome of this game. If the US finds themselves in the need of an all-out team performance and he doesn't step up in the leadership role we all know he should be able to fill and the team misses out on qualifying for the knock-out rounds, questions will arise.
Result: USA 2 - 0 ALG


Final standings:

World Cup Predictions: Group B

Group B: Argentina, Nigeria, South Korea, Greece

Players to Watch:
Lionel Messi (Argentina)
Yakubu Aiyegbeni (Nigeria)
Chu-Young Park (South Korea)
Theofanis Gekas (Greece)


Match to Watch:
Argentina vs. Nigeria
June 12, 10:00 A.M. (ESPN)


Predicitions:

Argentina vs. Nigeria
June 12, 10 A.M. EDT (ESPN)
One word: Messi. If the little man is to live up to his super-hyped premature title of "The Greatest. Ever. Period." then he'll need to bring the World Cup home to Argentina. On the other hand, many have pinpointed this year's World Cup as the debutante party for African Soccer. Argentina wins, despite Maradona.
Result: ARG 2 - 1 NIG

South Korea vs. Greece
June 12, 7:30 A.M. EDT (ESPN)
The past two months have seen Greece become the economic laughing stock of the world. South Korea has lead East Asia's assault on global soccer powers. In the end, Greece's defensive-minded game which saw it scrape through qualification with little to spare, will not be enough for Korea's lightening pace.
Result: KOR 1 - 0 GRE

Greece vs. Nigeria
June 16, 10:00 A.M. EDT (ESPN)
No matter what happens in Nigeria's opening game, they will be in the ascendancy for the rest of their group games. Greece's lineup and past performances - which have seen them win a UEFA Championship in 2004 only to dramatically fail to qualify for the 2006 World Cup - lack the spark needed to succeed in South Africa.
Result: GRE 1 - 2 NIG

Argentina vs. South Korea
June 17, 7:30 A.M. EDT (ESPN)
Some might say that I'm becoming drunk on the Argentinian cool-aid, but the pre-Cup camps will be the longest time the team has spent together and talent the likes of Messi, Tevez, Aguero, Higuain, Di Maria, Mascherano and Heinze will find a way to gel despite Maradona's managerial incompetence. Korea is just unlucky.
Result: ARG 3 - 1 KOR

Nigeria vs. South Korea
June 22, 2:30 P.M. EDT (ESPN)
Going into the final day of the group stage, both Nigeria and Korea will need the points. Both will need the win to edge out the other into the group stage. Nigeria's de facto home field advantage will prove decisive.
Result: NIG 2 - 1 KOR

Greece vs. Argentina
June 22, 2:30 P.M. EDT (ESPN 2)
Momentum or resilience? The answer to that question gives you the result of this game. Either Messi's inspired performance will render Argentina's momentum will be unstoppable or Greece will summon some national pride and stonewall La Albiceleste. But in my world, there is no way out of it for Greece. They might dampen Messi's sparkle, but Tevez will wear them down.
Result: ARG 1 - 0 GRE


Final standings:

Will Detroit Ever See MLS Soccer?

Every time talk of MLS expansion comes up, Detroit always seems to make an abstract short list. And every time, without fail, nothing comes of it.

So when MLS Commissioner Don Garber revealed in an interview last week that Detroit had been added to the league's shortlist along with Miami, Atlanta, St. Louis and another Canadian town (Ottawa?) for a 20+ team league, hopes all around the Motor City began to rise. Yet, with a stronger soccer base in every single one of the other shortlisted cities, it appears as if Detroit is being set up yet again to get the short end of the stick.

But why shouldn't Detroit have an MLS franchise? Its proximity to both Chicago and Columbus as well as Canada sets up an interesting array of possible rivalries. Not to mention, Michigan and Ohio already hate each others' guts and that hatred has already been successfully funneled into sports.

Detroit is also a lucrative sports market. Ranked 11th in national TV market tables, Detroit has tremendous potential for television licensing and advertising revenue. By comparison, Seattle is ranked 13th, Denver 16th, Portland 22nd, Columbus 34th. On top of this, the Motor City already fosters a fanatic love of hockey, baseball and basketball. Hell, even the pathetic NFL franchise the Detroit Lions drag season ticket fans back each year for punishment.

But that's just it. Detroit is too far gone on any other number of sports to be preoccupied with professional soccer. It seems that no matter how many times people compile a list of reasons why Detroit should have an MLS franchise, the crux of the argument boils down to: "Detroit's a big city and as a big city we should have a pro soccer team." Believe me when I say that this is not enough to bring the MLS to Detroit.

The (recent) history of professional soccer in Detroit
In 2003, the NY/NJ Metrostars (ah, the good old days) played a U.S. Open Cup match against the Michigan Bucks. The local media heralded it as the debut of Major League Soccer in the Metro Detroit area. Livonia natives Jim and Dan Duggan are quoted in the Detroit News as saying they had hopes of adding Detroit's name to the list of MLS expansion finalists by September 1, 2004. Jim and Dan also establish "MLS Detroit" and begin taking deposits on season tickets from potential fans. Nothing comes of it.

Fast forward to 2005. Detroit is snubbed in favor of Salt Lake and a second Los Angeles team. In response to this, MLS Detroit offers forth a study conducted by American City Business Journals which identifies ... wait for it ... Detroit as "one of the most appealing markets in America for a Major League Soccer (MLS) expansion team." Nothing comes of it.

In 2006 the Michigan Bucks, the USL Premier Development League team based in Pontiac, Michigan, win the top amateur honor of the year. Journalists, fans and soccer pundits speculate what it means for the "future of soccer in Detroit." Nothing comes of it.

It is now 2010. Detroit has been passed up for an expansion franchise in favor of Toronto, Seattle, Philadelphia, Vancouver and Montreal. And with a second New York team looking to pad the league's membership to 20 teams, the next six years are looking no different than the past six for Detroit's hope of MLS glory.

The Solution
With the future of a 20+ team MLS in doubt, Detroit should take a pragmatic, incremental approach to wedging its way into professional soccer. Detroit should strive for a successful second tier USL or NASL franchise. The phenomenal season ticket success of Seattle and Philadelphia started as support for a second tier team and Vancouver, Montreal, and (likely) St. Louis are set to follow in their expansion footsteps.

You've got to crawl before you can walk, as they say. Detroit should be looking to the USL before the MLS. And then, just maybe, MLS will not overlook the Motor City when it starts its next round of expansion.

World Cup Predictions: Group A

I normally stay away from making predictions. More often than not, I end up with my foot in my mouth and egg on my face. However, what's a few predictions between friends in the name of wild speculation?

First up - logically enough - is Group A: France, Uruguay, Mexico and South Africa.

Players to Watch:
Franck Ribery (France)
Diego Forlan (Uruguay)
Carlos Vela (Mexico)
Steven Pienaar (South Africa)


Match to Watch:
France vs. Mexico
June 17, 2:30 P.M. (ESPN 2)


Predictions:

South Africa vs. Mexico
June 11, 10 A.M. EDT (ESPN)
Mexico has the unenviable task of opening their World Cup campaign against the host country. If South Africa wants to progress pass the first round, they will need to get points out of this game.
Result: SFA 1 - 1 MEX

Uruguay vs. France
June 11, 2:30 P.M. EDT (ESPN)
Two former World Cup champions meet in this first round clash. Uruguay (1930, 1950) comes from a continent renowned for its silky soccer prowess, while France (1998) comes from the tested furnace of Europe. Not to mention France's baggage train of controversy surrounding their qualification.
Result: URU 1 - 2 FRA

South Africa vs. Uruguay
June 16, 2:30 P.M. EDT (ESPN)
Both teams are from the Southern Hemisphere and will be playing in their winters. With that in mind, Uruguay's will all but seal the fate of the hosts.
Result: SFA 0 - 1 URU

France vs. Mexico
June 17, 2:30 P.M. EDT (ESPN 2)
This match will determine the first and second place teams in the group. France's talents in the form of Ribery, Malouda, Evra and Anelka (all of whom have been in tantalizing form this season in Europe) will be too much for Blanco's boys.
Result: FRA 2 - 0 MEX

Mexico vs. Uruguay
June 22, 10 A.M. EDT (ESPN)
Mexico will rally from their loss to France to clinch
Result: MEX 1 - 0 URU

France vs. South Africa
June 22, 10 A.M. EDT (ESPN 2)
While South Africa's supporters will no doubt be a force to reckon with, they will not be able to put up with a French team who will be up to speed by the end of the group stage. The best South Africa can hope for is a goalless draw.
Result: FRA 2 - 0 SFA


Final standings:

A Detailed Look at the Geography of US Soccer

Taking a look at the locations of the US's soccer teams can tell you everything from who has to travel the most to which states are closeted soccer lovers. Stateside Soccer is convinced that they will also tell you where the next 4 MLS teams will be located.

The announcement that the Montreal Impact would become the 19th team in Major League Soccer and that a second New York team would likely be the 20th team, there has been quite a bit of speculation high and low regarding just what the next 10 years will bring for top flight soccer in the United States.

MLS (click to enlarge)

The current 19 confirmed MLS teams are predominantly spread across the Mid Atlantic, Lower Plains and Pacific Coast. A second team in New York would make 20. The most notable geographical gap in the distribution of the teams is the total lack of teams in the Deep South. After that gap, the Northern Plains stand out.

USSF DIVISION 2 (NASL + USL-1) (click to enlarge)

This map pinpoints the locations of the second tier professional teams. Note that come 2011, there will be no second tier teams west of the Rocky Mountains.

USL DIVISION 2 (TIER 3) (click to enlarge)

This map sets out the locations of this year's USL Division 2 teams. It doesn't tell us much about national trends, particularly because of the USL's difficulties this year. The lower down a team is on the pyramid, the less budget it is likely to have for travel. Therefore, teams in any third tier league would need to be located close to each other. However, it is interesting to note where these are located. Once again, there is a splattering of teams in the Mid-Atlantic region with one team each for the Carolinas.

USL PREMIER DEVELOPMENT LEAGUE

NATIONAL PREMIER SOCCER LEAGUE (click to enlarge)

This map shows the location of the 100 amateur clubs who play in either the USL PDL or the NPSL. The prevalence of these teams can be an indication of the foundation and interest in soccer in any given region. Note the concentrations around the Seattle and Philadelphia.

SO WHAT DO ALL THESE DOTS TELL US?

If you've stuck with me this far, you'll more than likely want to know what all of these maps mean. In my opinion, these maps make three main points:

A second New York Metro MLS team is inevitable.

With 9 amateur teams in the Tri-State Area, there is clearly a cultural foundation on which to build a successful, grass-roots franchise. Like it or hate it, the Big Apple is going to get a second MLS franchise.

Florida cannot be ignored.

Since both the Tampa Bay Mutiny and the Miami Fusion shut their doors in 2001, Flordia has seen the resurgence of two professional teams and three more amateur teams. Major League Soccer will return to Florida, it's just a question of when.

Where the next four MLS teams are likely to be located.

These maps outline clearly to me where the next four teams will come from, should the MLS elect for a 24 team league. I know where I think they'll come from, but which four cities do you think will be the next to open their doors to top flight professional soccer?

The Truth About the Davies Debacle

Much has been made of the "public outcry" surrounding Bob Bradley's decision to leave injured striker Charlie Davies off his 30 man initial World Cup squad.

Davies, a fan favorite, suffered a slue of life-threatening injuries in a car crash while breaking curfew ahead of the U.S.'s final World Cup qualifier in October 2009.  During the past six and a half months, Davies appeared to be making miraculous strides in his recovery, with the most optimistic fans and pundits speculating that he just might make it back in time for South Africa.  What followed was a collective pipe dream made not so much for the real world of international soccer but rather for the fanciful imaginings of the silver screen.

When Davies was left off the roster on Tuesday, the announcement was met with fan indignation and speculation.  What really happened?  Who was really to blame for this?  I mean, other than the same person who decided that there shouldn't be a Santa Claus.

THE OFFICIAL STORY:
It's pretty simple.  Although Davies announced via twitter that he had returned to full training with his club, Sochaux on April 26, the club would not give U.S. Men's International coach Bob Bradley clearance for Davies to take place in the pre-tournament training camp.  Bradley insisted that at that point he had no choice and Davies had to be omitted from the roster.

THE CONSPIRACY THEORY:
The juicy conspiracy theory has two villians: Bradley and Davies' French club, Sochaux.  In this scenario, Bob Bradley is just a mean guy who didn't pick Charlie because he doesn't like goodness or puppies or whatever.  On the other side of the pond, Sochaux is accused of sabotaging Davies since his injury and their refusal to give Bradley permission to have Davies in camp was just the latest in a long line of insults - an opinion Davies has hinted at in recent interviews.

WHAT REALLY HAPPENED (PROBABLY):
Let's be realistic people. Davies is lucky to be alive, let alone walking, let alone playing soccer again.  Not to mention at the age of 23, he will likely have at least one more bite at the World Cup apple.  Sochaux, meanwhile, more than likely did not want to take out insurance on a player who just returned to the training pitch from serious injury.  Bradley, on the other hand, had a professional obligation to select the combination of players who are in the best shape and can contribute the most to a well orchestrated team effort at the World Cup.  So, really, at the end of the day, Bradley was just happy to have someone else to blame when he had to make what was ultimately the right decision in leaving Davies off the roster.