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A forum for all 'english-speaking' fans of Gabriel Omar Batistuta, which EVER team he's involved with! To make it easier to reply to posts, please don't start a new thread if there is already an existing thread related to your topic. Let's try to keep all the same news 'together'. Thanks! |
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Katy
 IP: 80.7.116.42 Aug 7, 08 - 2:09 AM |
The Olympics.... news, info and results!
Well the competition has started... but Argentina don't play until Thursday. I've copied the groups and the format in case we are unsure of things as the competiton progresses. Here we go.... Men's Tournament Group stage The 16 teams taking part in the final competition shall be divided into four groups of four teams. The FIFA Organising Committee shall divide the teams into groups by seeding and drawing lots in public, whilst taking sporting and geographical factors into consideration as far as possible. The teams in the four groups shall be designated as follows: Drawing of lots for the Olympic football competitions (men's): Group A: Cote D'Ivoire (A1), Argentina (A2), Australia (A3), Serbia (A4) Group B: Netherlands (B1), Nigeria (B2), Japan (B3), USA (B4) Group C: China (C1), New Zealand (C2), Brazil (C3), Belgium (C4) Group D: Republic of Korea (D1), Cameroon (D2), Honduras (D3), Italy (D4) The system of play shall be a league system, each team playing one match against each of the other teams in the same group, with three points for a win, one point for a draw, and none for a defeat. The ranking of the teams in each group shall be determined as follows: a) greatest number of points obtained in all group matches; b) goal difference in all group matches; c) greatest number of goals scored in all group matches.If two or more teams are equal on the basis of the above three criteria, their ranking shall be determined as follows: d) greatest number of points obtained in all group matches between the teams concerned; e) goal difference resulting from all group matches between the teams concerned; f) greatest number of goals scored in all group matches between the teams concerned; g) fair play point system, in which the number of yellow and red cards each team has received is evaluated; h) drawing of lots by the FIFA Organising Committee. The two teams ranked first and second in each group qualify for the quarter-finals. The matches in the group stage shall be played in accordance with a schedule drawn up by the FIFA Organising Committee and BOCOG. The last two matches in each group shall be scheduled to kick off simultaneously. Quarter-finals The eight teams that advance from the quarter-finals as follows: Winner A v. Runner-up B = Winner 1 Winner B v. Runner-up A = Winner 2 Winner C v. Runner-up D = Winner 3 Winner D v. Runner-up C = Winner 4 The matches shall be played in accordance with the knockout system. Semi-finals The winners of the quarter-finals shall contest the semi-finals as follows: Winner 1 v. Winner 3 Winner 2 v. Winner 4 The matches shall be played in accordance with the knockout system. Final and play-off for third place 1. The winners of the semi-finals qualify for the final. 2. The losers of the semi-finals contest the play-off for the third place. 3. If the play-off for the third place is not played directly preceding the final and is a draw after 90 minutes, extra time shall be played (two periods of 15 minutes each) and followed, if necessary, by kicks from the penalty mark to determine the winner. However, if the match is played directly preceding the final and is a draw after 90 minutes, no extra time shall be played and the winner shall be determined immediately by kicks from the penalty mark. 4. If the final is a draw after 90 minutes, extra time shall be played (two periods of 15 minutes each) and followed, if necessary, by kicks from the penalty mark to determine the winner. Contest Duration Each match lasts 90 minutes, divided in two periods of 45 minutes each, with an interval of 15 minutes in between.If a match in the knockout stages is a draw after 90 minutes, extra time shall be played (two periods of 15 minutes each) followed, if necessary, by kicks from the penalty mark to determine the winner. |
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Katy
IP: 80.7.116.42 Aug 7th, 2008 - 2:19 AM |
Re: The Olympics.... news, info and results!
Messi club v country battle Dan Silkstone, Shanghai | August 7, 2008 ARGENTINE star Lionel Messi is at the centre of a power struggle between his national Olympic team and club giant Barcelona as confusion reigns regarding whether he will play in the Games, less than 24 hours before kick-off. The Catalan club, which pays Messi's multi-million-dollar wage, yesterday won a decision from the Court of Arbitration of Sport to overturn a FIFA directive ordering the star player to be released for Olympic duty. Legally Messi is obliged to leave the Argentinian camp in Shanghai and return to Spain, but Argentine coach Sergio Batista vowed last night that he would not release the biggest name in the Olympic soccer tournament. "The player is going to be here and will remain with the team," he said. "I hope he will remain with the team for the entire tournament." Batista said Messi's name would be on the teamsheet tonight when Argentina faced the Ivory Coast in its first Olympic match. "He wants to be here with his teammates right now," the coach said. Barcelona wants Messi — its star playmaker — to play for the club in crucial European Champions League matches in coming weeks. It argued that as Messi's employer it could withhold him from Olympic duty. Legally, Argentina has no further right of appeal. The court's decision — though it goes against the wishes of ruling body FIFA — is final. And yet, Batista maintained, his star player wanted to play in the Games and would get his wish. A week ago Messi was asked what he would do if the court decision went in favour of his club. He replied then that he would return to Spain. But last night Batista said: "Now he wants to be here with the rest of the team." The impasse has crucial implications for Australia's Olympic campaign. The Olyroos open their tournament against Serbia tonight but are due to face Argentina on Sunday. ___________________ We shall see tonight, then, V Ivory Coast! I hope he CAN play! 
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Katy
IP: 80.7.116.42 Aug 7th, 2008 - 2:37 AM |
Re: The Olympics.... news, info and results!
Here's a preview... I can't find an update on the Messi saga!  I'm going to bed after this, maybe someone else can find out whether he's playing or not! 06/08/2008 21:33 Olympic Preview: Group A, Day 1 Ewan Macdonald looks at the first day of Olympic action involving Argentina and Cote d'Ivoire Thursday 7 August 2008 (all times Beijing) 17:00 Australia - Serbia 19:45 Cote d'Ivoire - Argentina Cote d'Ivoire - Argentina Having been edged out by the albiceleste at the World Cup in Germany, the Ivory Coast are out for revenge with a young side eager to atone for their disappointing end to the Africa Cup of Nations in Ghana earlier in the year. Not a single player over the age of 23 has joined up with the Elephants, and as such there is a shortage of big names: Salomon Kalou and Kafoumba Coulibaly are perhaps the only readily recognisable names for most global observers as Didier Drogba, Arouna Koné and company remain in Europe. Nonetheless the Ivorians merit their reputation for bringing through young talent and cannot be taken lightly. Argentina, meanwhile, comprise a squad that reads like a "who's who" of global talent. As if having Lionel Messi up front was not enough, Fernando Gago, José Ernesto Sosa, Éver Banega, Ezequiel Garay, Oscar Ustari, Sergio Agüero, and Ezequiel Lavezzi all line up - and that's before we get to the over-agers! Riquelme and Mascherano are the midfield duo in question, while Nicolás Pareja of Anderlecht adds experience at the back. With this sort of pedigree it's no wonder that Argentina are the favourites both for this game and the gold medal. But with such power comes responsibility: Sergio Batista's men simply cannot afford to get off to a poor start. Players to watch: Lionel Messi is here against the wishes of his club and the Court of Arbitration for Sport and how he deals with the mental turmoil of what has been a difficult summer could prove decisive. He'll be up against Ivorian 'keeper Vincent de Paul Angban of local side ASEC Mimosas. Vincent is likely to be a busy man. Ewan Macdonald, Goal.com |
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Daryl
IP: 201.238.98.116 Aug 7th, 2008 - 5:50 PM |
Re: The Olympics.... news, info and results!
Barcelona have announced that Lionel Messi will be allowed to remain with the Argentina squad for the Olympic Games. Messi was selected to represent his country in Beijing, but after he joined up with the squad in China the Court of Arbitration for Sport ruled that clubs did not have to release players because the Olympics was not part of the official Fifa calendar. Now Barca sporting director Txiki Begiristain and coach Pep Guardiola have confirmed they would not be recalling one of their star men after the player expressed his desire to remain at the Games during talks with the club late on Wednesday night. Guardiola told a Camp Nou press conference: "It's the best decision as, although with Leo we're a better side, these are exceptional circumstances. "He's happy there and is satisfied and there's no need to take this any further." Happy Begiristain added: "We want the player to be happy and his happiness is there for all to see." The sporting director also confirmed earlier reports that the Catalan club have allowed their player to stay in China after striking a deal with the Argentina Football Association (AFA). The AFA will now pay for a large insurance policy which would see the Camp Nou outfit receive a large pay-out should Messi be injured at any point during the Games. The 21-year-old will also be exempt from certain friendly matches involving Argentina, allowing him to remain in Spain with the Barcelona squad. The agreement is similar to that which German clubs Werder Bremen and Schalke both demanded of the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) after allowing their players Diego and Rafinha to remain at the Games. Daryl Go ARGIE
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Katy
IP: 80.7.116.42 Aug 8th, 2008 - 2:48 AM |
Re: The Olympics.... news, info and results!
Here's a report AND the highlights!    Click Here Thanks for the article Daryl... SO glad Messi's there!
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Daryl
IP: 201.238.98.116 Aug 8th, 2008 - 6:53 PM |
Re: The Olympics.... news, info and results!
Oh thanks for the link Katy, am not sure how I can watch these games.. Daryl |
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Katy
IP: 80.7.116.42 Aug 9th, 2008 - 9:14 PM |
Re: The Olympics.... news, info and results!
No problem Daryl, I've had difficulty finding out how I can watch them too... there's just SO many of these Olympics to search through!  Anyway, I managed to find the dates of the Mens football matches, but remember the times shown are UK time! Sunday 10 August Men 1000: Argentina v Australia, Nigeria v Japan, New Zealand v Brazil, Cameroon v Honduras 1245: Serbia v Ivory Coast, USA v Netherlands, Belgium v China, Italy v South Korea -------------------------------------------- Wednesday 13 August Men 1000: Nigeria v USA, South Korea v Honduras, Cameroon v Italy, Netherlands v Japan 1245: Argentina v Serbia, New Zealand v Belgium, Ivory Coast v Australia, China v Brazil -------------------------------------------- Saturday 16 August Men 1100-1400, 1400-1700: Quarter-finals --------------------------------------------- Tuesday 19 August Men 1100-1700: Semi-finals --------------------------------------------- Friday 22 August Men 1200-1500: Bronze medal game --------------------------------------------- Saturday 23 August Men 0500-0800: Gold medal game |
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Brigie
IP: 190.58.68.200 Aug 10th, 2008 - 2:57 AM |
Re: The Olympics.... news, info and results!
Hey Dar I don't know if this will help but i saw on a schedule that USA is showing the Argentina vs Australia match but i see that they're showing the USA vs Netherlands match live and our match but i know it starts 5.a.m. our time. I really hope channel 6 doesn't censor it.Thanks Katy for the times.
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Brigie
IP: 190.58.68.200 Aug 10th, 2008 - 7:00 PM |
Re: The Olympics.... news, info and results!
Hey guys I did not get up in time for the match apparently my cable network censored the other stations and the coverage they brought on the local station was did not bring the match but i saw the result while checking on the net was Arg-1 Aus-0 not too sure if that was the final result. I think this is a direct link to the bejing olympics http://08beijingolympics.blogspot.com/ I hope it is helpful  
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Daryl
IP: 190.59.3.15 Aug 10th, 2008 - 8:10 PM |
Re: The Olympics.... news, info and results!
I can confirm we won 1-0 Bri..but I didnt see the match either, I hope we can in the knock out stages.. Daryl Katy thanks for the schedule Forza Argies |
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Katy
IP: 80.7.116.42 Aug 12th, 2008 - 12:26 AM |
Re: The Olympics.... news, info and results!
I didn't get to watch it either... the BBC said they were going to show it but changed to Nigeria v USA at the last minute!  Anyway... short highlights! Click here |
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Katy
IP: 80.7.116.42 Aug 12th, 2008 - 12:31 AM |
Re: The Olympics.... news, info and results!
The Group Tables... Argentina are definitely through to the next stage! Group A - men (10 Aug) P W D L F A Pts Argentina 2 2 0 0 3 1 6 Ivory Coast 2 1 0 1 5 4 3 Australia 2 0 1 1 1 2 1 Serbia 2 0 1 1 1 1 1 Group B - men (10 Aug) P W D L F A Pts USA 2 1 1 0 3 2 4 Nigeria 2 1 1 0 2 1 4 Netherlands 2 0 2 0 2 2 2 Japan 2 0 0 2 1 3 0 Group C - men (10 Aug) P W D L F A Pts Brazil 2 2 0 0 6 0 6 Belgium 2 1 0 1 2 1 3 China 2 0 1 1 1 3 1 New Zealand 2 0 1 1 1 6 1 Group D - men (10 Aug) P W D L F A Pts Italy 2 2 0 0 6 0 6 Cameroon 2 1 1 0 2 1 4 South Korea 2 0 1 1 1 4 1 Honduras 2 0 0 2 0 4 0 |
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Daryl
IP: 201.238.98.116 Aug 13th, 2008 - 6:16 PM |
Re: The Olympics.... news, info and results!
Argentina beats Serbia 2-0 in Olympic soccer By PAUL LOGOTHETIS 13 minutes ago Buzz Up Print BEIJING (AP)—Ezequiel Lavezzi and Diego Buonanotte each scored Wednesday night to wrap up Argentina’s perfect group start to the Olympic soccer tournament with a 2-0 victory over Serbia. Lavezzi scored from the penalty spot in the 13th minute, and Buonanotte curled in a free kick in the 81st as defending champion Argentina, which had already qualified for the last eight, topped Group A with nine points. Argentina will next play Group B runner-up and European Under-21 champion Netherlands at Shanghai Stadium on Saturday. Serbia finished tied with Australia on one point, while Ivory Coast was runner-up in the group with six points. Argentina got off to a near perfect start thanks to Lavezzi. Marko Jovanovic tripped up Angel Di Maria as the Argentina forward dribbled through the area for the spot kick. Vladimir Stojkovic guessed right but couldn’t stop Lavezzi’s hard shot as it sailed through the Serbia goalkeeper’s gloves and into the left side of goal. Di Maria nearly got on the scoreboard a minute later but Stojkovic stopped his shot. Argentina goalkeeper Sergio Romero punched away Aleksandr Kolarov’s hard shot in the 30th before Miljan Mrdakovic fired a shot over the net from close range a minute later. The 53,668 at Workers’ Stadium, which included U.S. basketball player Kobe Bryant, chanted Lionel Messi’s name throughout with Argentina’s star player relegated to the bench. Messi smiled in acknowledgment when the stadium screen showed the winger in the 33rd minute. The crowd, which rose up in excitement every time Argentina burst into the Serbian zone, also acknowledged Serbia’s flare, especially Zoran Tosic’s run in the 42nd minute. Romero tipped Gojko Kacar’s swirling volley off the bar in the 55th while Lavezzi misdirected wide at the near post on counter attack in the open game. Romero tipped Mrdakovic’s shot over in the 64th as Serbia pressed. Argentina substitute Lautaro Acosta was played clear on goal in the 74th only to shoot wide with his first touch. Acosta drew a penalty inside the area with a speedy run in the 79th but Stojkovic denied Di Maria twice—on the initial penalty and the retake. The Serbia goalkeeper could only get a finger tip to Buonanotte’s curling free kick as it went over the defensive wall and inside the right post. Serbia finished the game with 10 men after Dusko Tosic was red carded in injury time. Daryl Forza Argies
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Linda
IP: 129.241.122.230 Aug 14th, 2008 - 1:50 AM |
Re: The Olympics.... news, info and results!
Just got home from vacation in time to see Argentina's matches. They look solid, nothing too spectacular, but solid. Great free kick also. I'll note the times of the next matches in my calendar. Thanks for all the updates and information on how the tournament works.
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Brigie
IP: 190.58.66.132 Aug 17th, 2008 - 6:22 AM |
Re: Argie-Brazil semis
Messi leads Argentina to semifinals Lionel Messi sent a cross to Angel Di Maria, who scored the second goal for Argentina to defeat the Netherlands in the extra time and move into semifinals at Beijing 2008. Argentina suffered more than expected to clinch a win over the Netherlands and move into semifinals at the Games. The South American team didn’t have a brilliant display, but they are lucky to count on such a talented player like Lionel Messi, who sent the cross to Angel Di Maria to get a tough triumph. Coach Sergio Batista lincluded Di Maria in the lineup to replace Ezequiel Lavezzi; former Rosario Central (ARG) player joined Messi and Juan Roman Riquelme to start getting closer to the Netherlands’ goal. FC Barcelona striker had a golden chance to start the celebration, but he failed. When he had a second shot, he did it. Then, Argentina started to slow down. Even though they kept ruling on the field, the goal chances were less and less. Sergio Agüero had a poor performance again, so Argentina depended entirely on what Messi could create. What about the "Orange Mechanics"? They offered even less than Argentina, but they manager to restore the equalizer with a goal from Ottmar Bakkal. In the second half, things were more balanced since Argentina seemed to be a little bit confused, while the Dutch started doing it better; it’s as if the goals had given them more strength and courage to fight again. Argentina began to get weak on the midfield and, to cap it all, keeper Oscar Ustari got injured so he was replaced by Sergio Romero. The winner of the game had to be determined in the extra time; then, Agüero woke up and sent the Netherlands a warning with a header, but it was Messi the one to had the key to the win: he sent a cross to Angel Di Maria, who kicked the ball with his left leg to definitely move into semifinals. SportsYa Yay Argie defeated Netherlands in extra time 2-1 thanks to Dar good inspirations. Argie are through to the next stage to face Brazil who defeated Cameroon 2-0 in extra time even though Cameroon had i think ten men or nine men but Brazil didn't look to well which is good for us were played a brilliant first half however i do feel the defenders need to be more alert we can do so much better do not saturate Messi and Riquelme there are other players.I was just so glad to see the match and Dar I think the semi-final , checked the guide ,9:00a.m. Argie- Brazil not too sure i think it might be 5:00a.m. around that time frame same channel MSNBC or maybe channel 5 .I hope we kill Brazil
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Karun
IP: 125.24.86.7 Aug 17th, 2008 - 8:09 AM |
Re: The Olympics.... news, info and results!
Brazil with Diego, Ronaldinho, Lucas, Pato, Anderson, Rafinha and Alex Silva are a turely very strong side. If Argentina wants to win they will have to: 1. Use every goal scoring oppotunities very resourcefully. 2.Gain maximum possession and make accurate passes. 3. Stop depending on Messi alone. 4. Do not loose many free kicks 5.Be careful of Cornerkicks:Alex Silva is 192cm(6'4) tall and this can become a threat to our defenders. 6. Becareful of counter strikes. 7. Become Result Oriented. 8. Team Work is the key. 9. Practice for penalty kicks. 10. Becareful in tackling and marking as Brazilians are great actors and we can loose cards unnecessary. In short, Argentina will have to be at their best ! |
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Daryl
IP: 190.59.9.74 Aug 18th, 2008 - 12:12 AM |
Re: The Olympics.... news, info and results!
Thanks Bri and Karum. Bri make sure and call me if its 5 am tuesday. Wake me up :).. I agree Karum we would need to be at our best.. Brazil has in the past played thier best agianst us. I have no hopes they would do otherwise. Aguero needs to step up or Lazzevi..(napoli lad) should start. Brazil would play physical against us that for sure..The same tactic would be used on Messi and Riqulme..at the Copa finals 2007.. Atleast we are assured of a game with a medal up for grabs..lets hope its the goal.. Can anyone tell me if winning this medal would help us to the confeds cup in South Africa.?? Bri thanks for calling and letting me know MSNBC was airing the game..hugs. Daryl Forza Argies.
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Katy
IP: 80.7.116.42 Aug 19th, 2008 - 12:53 AM |
Re: The Olympics.... news, info and results!
I hope I might get to watch this tomorrow, not sure yet! It should be pretty nailbiting!  More highlights here... Click here |
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Daryl
IP: 190.59.9.74 Aug 19th, 2008 - 2:45 AM |
Re: The Olympics.... news, info and results!
South American powerhouses meet in semifinal By TALES AZZONI, Associated Press Writer 9 hours, 44 minutes ago Buzz Up Print BEIJING (AP)—It’s time for the Ronaldinho-Lionel Messi Olympic showdown, with Brazil facing defending champion Argentina in the semifinals of the football tournament on Tuesday. The South American rivals will play in Beijing, while Belgium and Nigeria will meet in Shanghai in the other semifinal. Despite having five world titles, Brazil is the only team among the semifinalists without a gold medal. Argentina is trying to become the first nation to win consecutive Olympic titles since Hungary in 1964 and 1968. Brazil will be led by Ronaldinho, who came to China trying to recover from his worst season in European football. Argentina will be counting on Messi, Ronaldinho’s former teammate at FC Barcelona, who is at the top of his form. “It’s a match between two great teams,” Brazil midfielder Anderson said. “We are not afraid of them and they are not afraid of us. At the end we will know who will continue to the final and who was the best team.” ADVERTISEMENT All eyes will be on Ronaldinho and Messi, the tournament’s biggest stars. Countries are allowed to include only three players older than 23 in the Olympics. The 28-year-old Ronaldinho, who struggled with injuries at Barcelona, got to play only because he negotiated his release before transferring to AC Milan. Messi was allowed to participate even though Barcelona could have requested the 21-year-old playmaker to return after a court ruling just a day before the tournament was to begin. “Messi is a key player here and he is very important to us,” Argentina midfielder Javier Mascherano said. Each player has scored twice in the tournament, with Ronaldinho netting a pair of goals in Brazil’s 5-0 routing of New Zealand in the group stage. Messi scored once in Argentina’s 2-1 win over the Netherlands in the quarterfinals and another in the 2-1 victory over the Ivory Coast in the group stage. Ronaldinho has played every minute so far, while Messi was rested in Argentina’s 2-0 win over Serbia, when the Argentines had already secured a quarterfinal berth. Brazil and Argentina are the only teams to have won all their matches so far. Brazil has yet to allow a goal in four games, while the Argentines were scored upon twice, against Ivory Coast and the Netherlands. Brazil also is the top-scoring nation with 11 goals. “It’s always tough against Argentina no matter what has happened so far,” Brazil midfielder Lucas said. “It’s going to be a tight match, everyone will have to be very cautious.” Brazil and Argentina are coming off a 0-0 draw in South American World Cup qualifying in June, but the Brazilians routed Argentina 3-0 in last year’s Copa America final. “In these classic matches, both teams know that they can win,” Argentina coach Sergio Batista said after Argentina’s final practice before the semifinal. “We will have to be careful.” Brazil hadn’t reached the Olympic semifinals since the 1996 Atlanta Games, when it won bronze. The Olympic tournament is the only significant title it has never won in football. The Brazilians won the silver medal twice, at the 1984 Los Angeles Games and the 1988 Seoul Games. In addition to the title in Athens, Argentina won the silver medal in Atlanta and at the 1928 Amsterdam Games. Argentine great Diego Maradona is expected to be at the Workers’ Stadium to watch Tuesday’s match. He had already attended Argentina’s victory over the Netherlands. Daryl Forza Argies !! |
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Karun
IP: 58.136.126.74 Aug 19th, 2008 - 6:00 PM |
Re: The Olympics.... news, info and results!
0-0 at half time |
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Katy
IP: 80.7.116.42 Aug 19th, 2008 - 6:20 PM |
Re: The Olympics.... news, info and results!
But 2-0 after 15 mins of the 2nd half!!!  Both goals from Aguero!!!!
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Daryl
IP: 201.238.98.116 Aug 19th, 2008 - 6:32 PM |
Re: The Olympics.... news, info and results!
Thanks Karun, Katy and Bri on her bmobile :P .. Forza Argies.. Guess the faith kept in Aguero was justified..he is pure class...:) Forza Argies
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Katy
IP: 80.7.116.42 Aug 19th, 2008 - 6:35 PM |
Re: The Olympics.... news, info and results!
3-0... Riquelme penalty!!!!
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Katy
IP: 80.7.116.42 Aug 19th, 2008 - 6:38 PM |
Re: The Olympics.... news, info and results!
Daryl... can't you watch it???? Try here... Click |
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Katy
IP: 80.7.116.42 Aug 19th, 2008 - 6:44 PM |
Re: The Olympics.... news, info and results!
Brazil down to 9 men!!!! 
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Daryl
IP: 201.238.98.116 Aug 19th, 2008 - 6:50 PM |
Re: The Olympics.... news, info and results!
Katy thanks I saw that post late lol.. We playing for GOLD! come on guys...lets repeat history..defend our crown...I hope this helps the senior team. |
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Katy
IP: 80.7.116.42 Aug 19th, 2008 - 6:52 PM |
Re: The Olympics.... news, info and results!
WoooooHoooooo! Great 2nd half.... GREAT result!!!      
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Brigie
IP: 190.58.66.132 Aug 19th, 2008 - 7:19 PM |
Re: The Olympics.... news, info and results!
We win!Bring on Nigeria we win yay 3-0 yay 3-0 aaaaaaaaaahhhhhhh  It so good for Brazil a dose of their own medicine we win aaaaahhhhhhh .Good for them aaaaahhh
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Daryl
IP: 190.58.218.5 Aug 19th, 2008 - 10:56 PM |
Re: The Olympics.... news, info and results!
Argentina routs Brazil to reach another final By TALES AZZONI, Associated Press Writer 1 hour, 54 minutes ago Buzz Up Print BEIJING (AP)—Sergio Aguero scored two second-half goals in seven minutes Tuesday and later set up another to lead Argentina to a 3-0 win over rival Brazil and into its second straight Olympic final. Aguero opened the scoring for the defending champions by chesting in a left-side cross in the 52nd minute, then scored again from two meters (yards) on a cross from the right in the 58th. Aguero also set up a 76th-minute penalty kick that was converted by Juan Roman Riquelme. It was the first victory for Argentina against Brazil in three years. It hadn’t beaten Brazil since a 3-1 victory in a World Cup qualifier in June 2005. “It’s not a score you see every day when Brazil and Argentina play,” Argentina coach Sergio Batista said. “Argentina had a great match, with intelligence and personality.” The Argentine players huddled near midfield after the match and chanted to celebrate. The Argentines also did some celebrating inside the team’s bus as it was ready to leave the stadium, jumping around and singing together. Argentina, trying to become the first nation to win consecutive titles in 40 years, will now face Nigeria in a rematch of the 1996 final in Atlanta, when the Africans won 3-2 for their first and only title. Brazil will have to wait at least another four years to try to win its first Olympic gold medal. It is the only significant title the five-time world champions have never won. The match in front of a crowd of nearly 53,000 at Workers’ Stadium marked the encounter of the tournament’s top stars, former FC Barcelona teammates Lionel Messi and Ronaldinho. Both players displayed their uncanny skills, but Messi threatened the most and created dangerous scoring chances for Argentina. In his first Olympics, the midfielder set up Argentina’s second and third goals, while AC Milan’s Ronaldinho struck the post with a free kick as he tried to put Brazil back into the match. Messi sent a dangerous shot across the area in the 32nd, and had one of his best chances in the 41st after clearing three defenders inside the area before firing a shot that was barely saved by goalkeeper Renan. Aguero ran past defender Breno to open the scoring after Angel di Maria’s cross, then easily added to the lead in front of the goal mouth after Ezequiel Garay’s set-up. Messi started the play on the second goal by eluding several defenders before feeding the ball to Garay. Messi also set up Aguero inside the area before he was fouled by Breno in the play that prompted the penalty kick, which Riquelme converted with a right-footed shot into the middle of the net. After Aguero’s first goal, striker Rafael Sobis almost equalized with a powerful low shot that struck the post in the 60th. Ronaldinho also hit the post on a free kick in the 65th. Substitute forward Alexandre Pato scored after the free kick, but the goal was disallowed for offside. “We played an even match with them, it was a hard game, as usual,” Brazil coach Dunga said. “But they got the first goal and that made things difficult.” Brazil midfielder Lucas was sent off in the 81st after a foul from behind on Liverpool teammate Javier Mascherano. Substitute midfielder Thiago Neves was red-carded just three minutes later after another hard foul on Mascherano. “It was Argentina’s best match in the Olympics so far,” Batista said. “It was a well-deserved result.” The teams had drawn 0-0 in World Cup qualifying earlier in June, but Brazil routed Argentina 3-0 in last year’s Copa America and won by the same score in a friendly in London in 2006. “Now we will try to win the bronze,” Pato said. “It will still be an honor to win that medal.” In the other semifinal, Nigeria beat Belgium 4-1 in Shanghai after Chinedu Ogbuke Obasi scored two goals and Olubayo Adefemi and Chibuzor Okonkwo added one each for the 1996 Olympic champions. Katy I saw Soltan post a report in a new thread from fifa. Perhaps you can put it here if you get a chance.. Forza Argies
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Katy
IP: 80.7.116.42 Aug 19th, 2008 - 11:17 PM |
Re: The Olympics.... news, info and results!
Done, Daryl... thanks! Here's the report that Soltan posted in the other thread... THANKS Soltan! Sergio Aguero scored his first goals of the Men's Olympic Football Tournament, helping to engineer Argentina's dazzling 3-0 victory over ancient rivals Brazil in Beijing. The reward for their last-four victory is a final date with Nigeria, who beat Belgium 4-1 in Shanghai earlier today. The contest started at a pace befitting a clash between two of the oldest and greatest rivals in world football. After cautious flirtations with the goal at either end, the first golden chance came in the 12th minute when Schalke's jet-heeled Rafinha burst up the right wing and crossed dangerously. Lone Brazilian striker Rafael Sobis, however, was unable to get a toe to the ball at full stretch. Only seconds later, Sergio Aguero collected a quick free-kick inside the Brazilian area, but he somehow conspired to pull his shot wide of the near post with the goalkeeper at his mercy. With 33 minutes on the clock, Lionel Messi, a fan favourite in China PR, began to make his mark on the match. A wasted free-kick from Juan Roman Riquelme fell to the Barcelona gem, but his arrow-like cross through the six-yard box eluded his fellow attackers. Messi's best moment of the opening half came with four minutes to go. Jinking brilliantly through the penalty area, he forced Brazil keeper Renan into a reflex save that kept his side level at the interval. Argentinian pressure picked up early in the second half, and Aguero's good work finally paid dividends in the 52nd minute. After linking up with Fernando Gago, Angel Di Maria slammed a chest-high cross from the left that the striker shouldered into the back of the net from close range. Shortly after, Ezequiel Garay crossed low from the left side and the man they call 'El Kun' made no mistake, tapping home his second goal in six minutes. Inspired by their talisman, Ronalidinho, Brazil nearly hit back on 65 minutes. The new AC Milan signing slammed a vicious free-kick off Sergio Romero's post, and although Alexandre Pato managed to scramble the resulting rebound home, the referee signalled he was in an offside position. It was the second time in the half the Brazilians had struck the woodwork, with Rafael Sobis hitting the very same post just minutes before. But their luck would only get worse before it got better. Aguero was again the focal point for Argentina's third goal. After collecting a pass from the effervescent Messi in the penalty area in the 74th minute, the Atletico Madrid forward was hacked down by Breno for a penalty. Captain Riquelme stepped up to do the honours, hammering up through the gut of the goal. Brazil's miserable night was completed in the last ten minutes when Lucas and Thiago Neves were both sent off for cynical fouls on Javier Mascherano. The gold-medal match between Argentina and Nigeria, both former winners, will take place at the Bird's Nest National Stadium on 23 August. Brazil will take on Belgium for Bronze in Shanghai the day before. FIFA.com |
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Linda
IP: 129.241.122.230 Aug 20th, 2008 - 12:57 AM |
Re: The Olympics.... news, info and results!
Ohh...noo....I can't believe I missed this. For some reason I'd got the matct time wrong. Hopefully I'll catch a re-run later. BUT YEYYYYYYY!! Fantastic result I thought I got the score wrong the first time I saw it. AMAZING!Can't wait for the final. I'll be sure to check the time-frame a little more carefully this time. Congrats to us all!! |
nirajbatigol
IP: 91.108.214.235 Aug 20th, 2008 - 2:43 AM |
Re: The Olympics.... news, info and results!
hello guys!how are you doing?great that the fan site is strong and running. i have been hanging around more in mundoalbiceleste, so forgive me for much of the absence . But still following stuffs on batigol and once more thank u for all your great effort. I watched the game and it was amazing to win over brazil in such manner. Truly remarkable. Everything was on our side today but we deserve it. I hope this is the begining of our golden generation where finally the beautiful game will dominate the game once more. We still havent forgot our old pains. It felt so bad when Bati had to retire without basically no major cup with argentina although he was our best. I hope the young boys will make up for that and hopefully with Bati involved in some way. Vamos Albiceleste |
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Karun
IP: 203.144.240.114 Aug 20th, 2008 - 7:36 AM |
Re: The Olympics.... news, info and results!
Argentine played one of their best games... Brazilians were very physical especially when we got 3-0 lead.. I was worried that our players will suffer from injuries... I hope they don't even get the bronze... Argentina should expect a rough game from the Nigerians as well.. |
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Katy
IP: 80.7.116.42 Aug 20th, 2008 - 4:50 PM |
Re: The Olympics.... news, info and results!
Linda (very quickly, I'm on my way out)... if you missed it, you can watch the highlights here... Click It's an hour long programme of both matches, but Argentina v Brazil is on first!
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Jas
IP: 116.14.222.77 Aug 20th, 2008 - 6:57 PM |
Re: The Olympics.... news, info and results!
now THIS! is the Argentina I want to see! Interview with Riquelme, Zabaleta and Gago (love this guy, he impresses me the most in all matches) all three goals, quick before youtube take it down. highlights |
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Richie
IP: 155.198.184.64 Aug 20th, 2008 - 8:48 PM |
Re: The Olympics.... news, info and results!
Thanks for the higlights and all the information everyone! I've just watched the highlights - great result for Argentina vs Brazil, but a shame to see the players behaving as badly in the Olympics as they do when playing for their clubs. Crowding the referee, disputing every decision - hardly the Olympic spirit is it??!! Wouldn't it have been nice if the coaches had said to their players "right, there's no money at stake here, only the honour of your country, so let's behave appropriately and respect our opponents and the officials". Fat chance! |
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Linda
IP: 129.241.122.230 Aug 21st, 2008 - 3:07 AM |
Re: The Olympics.... news, info and results!
Thanks a million for the links Katy and Jas. You just made my evening  Still haven't quite sunk in that Argentina hammered Brazil like that.
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Brigie
IP: 190.58.66.132 Aug 21st, 2008 - 5:10 AM |
Re: The Olympics.... news, info and results!
I miss my Espn deportes especially sportscentre wish my stupid monopolistic cable would bring it back. Saw the match last night and according to Dar they did play physical it was reminiscent of the copa final in which cards should have been shared,glad to know that the referee in this match picked up on Brazil's nasty attitude.They were pratically shoving Messi out of the way.Cheaters never prosper .Can't wait for the final
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Brigie
IP: 190.58.66.132 Aug 21st, 2008 - 5:19 AM |
Re: The Olympics.... news, info and results!
Found this article read what Dunga says about Messi it's atrocious.He actually made it clear he was after marking Messi.Stupid Dunga. Olympic Soccer Final Argentina-Nigeria Gold Medal Match of Olympic Games Soccer © Gregory Sica Aug 20, 2008 Argentina is the favorite coming into the gold medal match of the 2008 Olympic Games Soccer competition where it will meet Nigeria After its emphatic 3-0 victory over Brazil in the semi-finals of the Olympic Games there's no question that Argentina comes into its gold medal match with Nigeria as the firm favorite. Olympic Final Argentina-Nigeria But despite the quality of its squad and of its soccer, Sergio Batista's side should be wary of the exciting Africans who thrashed Belgium 4-1 in the other semi-final. If I were to chose a winner it would definitely have to be Argentina. Argentina has an amazing squad, that looks very similar to its senior team, which is currently one of the best teams in the world (currently ranked no.5 in the world). Argentina's Lionel Messi and Juan Roman Riquelme After Brazil's humiliating loss, head coach Carlos Dunga admitted that "there are days when you can mark Lionel Messi and others when you can't." Messi has demonstrated his quality in the competition so far, and will surely give the Nigerian defense a huge headache. Another player who really impressed against Brazil was Juan Roman Riquelme. There are few players in the world who can read the game like the Boca Juniors playmaker, and his positioning and passing was superb against Brazil. For those who have criticized him in the past (because he supposedly failed in Europe) his performances have shown what kind of player he is. The Argentine league is one of the strongest and most difficult to play in in the world, and if the guy wants to play there instead of at one of Europe's top clubs it is his decision. He has achieved most of his success at Boca Juniors anyway, and playing in Argentina has given him a better relationship with the fans, and has given him more possibilities with La Albiceleste. Nigeria's Olympic Gold Medal Chances Now back to the gold medal match. Will Argentina win convincingly, like against Brazil, or will it be much more tighter? I reckon it will be a very even match, quite similar to Argentina's Olympic opener against the Ivory Coast. Batista's side will dominate the match, and outplay the Africans for moments, but will struggle to cope with their speed and determination down the wings. It is up to Argentina's defense to cope with what will be some Nigerian retaliation. Another thing on Argentina's mind would be when it lost the gold medal match to Nigeria in the 1996 Atlanta Olympics. It was twelve years ago, and both squads are completely different (of course), but Nigeria will be motivated by that result, knowing that despite its underdog tag it has beaten Argentina in the past. Nigeria has yet to lose a match in its Olympic campaign (with three wins and two draws), and has looked extremely solid. In the group stage many questioned its attack for the lack of goals, but it ended up proving everyone wrong in the knock-out stage. Olympic Final Prediction: Argentina-Nigeria Now to the prediction. Well here's how I think the match will unfold. Argentina will take an early lead (could be through Riquelme). The Argentines will dominate, and will double its lead early in the second half. This will lead to a massive scale reaction from Nigeria, who will pull a goal back, and will lift itself looking for an equalizer, piling heavy pressure on the Argentina goal (particularly down the wings). But this will leave massive holes in its midfield and defense, and Argentina will seal a 3-1 victory on the counterattack. Will I be right? Let's wait and see. The copyright of the article Olympic Soccer Final Argentina-Nigeria in International Soccer is owned by Gregory Sica. Permission to republish Olympic Soccer Final Argentina-Nigeria in print or online must be granted by the author in writing. |
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Brigie
IP: 190.58.71.251 Aug 23rd, 2008 - 10:22 AM |
We WIN!!!!!! Gold
WE win omg we won; Dar and I looked at it online it was wonderful; again thank you Dar for being my trini Argie buddy .Wow we conquered the heat to beat Nigeria 1-0 .We are truly the champions  .Next i smell world cup victoryin 2010 We Win omg I'm still in awe .Two Olympics in a rowwow .I hope get to play in the Confederations Cup
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Linda
IP: 129.241.122.230 Aug 23rd, 2008 - 2:17 PM |
Re: The Olympics.... news, info and results!
    
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Daryl
IP: 190.59.19.220 Aug 23rd, 2008 - 4:02 PM |
Re: The Olympics.... news, info and results!
SoccerHomeAthletesScheduleResultsNewsStandingsMedalsPhotosVideo Argentina beats Nigeria 1-0 for Olympic gold By ROBERT MILLWARD, AP Soccer Writer 1 hour, 37 minutes ago Buzz Up Print BEIJING (AP)—On a day when the heat on the field topped a punishing 107 degrees, and the referee twice stopped play because of the sizzle, Argentina proved itself a champion again. Angel di Maria provided the finish to another piece of magic from Lionel Messi, helping Argentina defeat Nigeria 1-0 for its second straight gold medal in Olympic soccer. Di Maria collected Messi’s expertly timed pass in the 58th minute Saturday and nonchalantly lobbed it over the goalkeeper. Nigeria, the 1996 champions, settled for the silver medal. “This group deserved this,” Messi said. “We knew coming in that we may never have this experience again, so we are lucky that everything went well and we got what we wanted.” Brazil, which has never won Olympic gold, earned the bronze medal Friday by beating Belgium 3-0 in Shanghai. After the final, Ronaldinho and his teammates stood on the field to collect their bronze medals and see the title go to their biggest rivals. Messi almost didn’t play in the tournament because FC Barcelona won a ruling that it could pull him from the tournament. The Spanish team allowed him to play. “I think he has played very well in the Olympic tournament,” Argentina coach Sergio Batista said. “He’s played very well today as he normally does in his position and I knew that he could probably be the deciding factor.” The final began at noon in the Bird’s Nest, and the referee took the rare step of twice allowing players to stop and take drinks. “Maybe the heat was a factor,” Batista said. “I think it the game had been played in another part of the day it would have been very different.” The game was the only one to be played in Beijing’s main Olympic stadium, and it was watched by a crowd of 89,102 that included former Argentina great Diego Maradona. But the fans had to wait a long time to be entertained. Not surprisingly, the searing heat made for poor quality in the first half— mistakes, misplaced passes and slow movement to conserve energy. “We tried to make sure that we didn’t get uptight, just too play our own game,” Batista said. “We wanted to play with intelligence and move the ball around and not run around so much. We wanted the ball to do the work.” After Peter Odemwingie’s free kick forced Argentina goalkeeper Sergio Romero to make a diving save in the sixth minute, Juan Roman Riquelme sent one over the bar. Messi had a penalty appeal turned down when he tumbled over Dele Adeleye’s challenge. Nigeria almost went ahead shortly after the first drink break when Odemwingie crossed from the left and Promise Isaac just missed the ball in front of goal. The ball came back and Isaac’s looping header was saved by Romero. “No team has actually played at noon since we started this tournament,” Nigeria coach Samson Siasia said. “It affected both countries and most players didn’t perform to their level because of the heat. But we didn’t make the rules. They said play the game at 12 o’clock which I don’t think wasn’t a good idea.” Argentina, and Messi in particular, were disappointed in the first half, but Di Maria almost made the breakthrough with a 30-yard shot that goalkeeper Ambruse Vanzekin pushed around the post. Messi produced one of his special moments in the 50th minute when he spun past a defender just outside the penalty area and sent a left-footed drive Vanzekin punched away. Victor Obinna had a chance to even the score in the 63rd minute with a clear shot, but he sent it straight at the goalkeeper. Ebenezer Alijore also had a shot at the goal, but it rolled wide of the post and then Sani Kaita shot over the bar from the edge of the penalty area. Yahoo sports. Thanks Bri. we were watching the game on cable and in the middle of the game 12 :30 am our time they swicted the channel feed. Thanks Bri we were lucky to see the last 30 mins or so. The factor of the heat can affect us in SA world cup..they must consider that now. Daryl Champons AGAIN We want WORLD CUP
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Jas
IP: 219.75.62.15 Aug 23rd, 2008 - 5:03 PM |
Re: The Olympics.... news, info and results!
That's my boys! that's so sweet of Maradona to have a little chat with Ronaldinho during the victory ceremony
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Karun
IP: 125.24.67.252 Aug 24th, 2008 - 6:55 PM |
Re: The Olympics.... news, info and results!
Argentina has proven once again that they are the best team... .
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Ali-gol
IP: 72.140.78.144 Aug 28th, 2008 - 12:32 AM |
Re: The Olympics.... news, info and results!
Its just amazing...well the years coming ahead are surely messi's...by 2010 Messi will surely be by far the best player in the world..and probably argentina will also have the second best player in the world as Kun Aguero can Argentina do what Uruguay did??..Uruguay won 2 straight Olympic gold medals and than won the world cup well i think argentina can do this
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Daryl
IP: 190.59.15.104 Aug 28th, 2008 - 4:39 AM |
Re: The Olympics.... news, info and results!
Oh very nice stats Ali-Gol I didnt know that..lets hope we can recreate history... Forza Argies .......on the way to GLORY Copa MUNDIAL 2010
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Katy
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