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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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Daryl
 IP: 190.59.25.39 Aug 24, 08 - 6:36 AM |
Argentina World Cup Qualifiers
BUENOS AIRES, Aug 23 (Reuters) - Argentina coach Alfio Basile has named the following 19 foreign-based players for the South American World Cup qualifiers against Paraguay and Peru next month: Goalkeepers: Roberto Abbondanzieri (Getafe), Juan Pablo Carrizo (Lazio), Sergio Romero (AZ Alkmaar) Defenders: Javier Zanetti (Inter Milan), Pablo Zabaleta (Espanyol), Nicolas Burdisso (Inter Milan), Gonzalo Rodriguez (Villarreal), Martin Demichelis (Bayern Munich), Fabricio Coloccini (Newcastle United), Gabriel Heinze (Real Madrid) Midfielders: Javier Mascherano (Liverpool), Fernando Gago (Real Madrid), Esteban Cambiasso (Inter Milan), Angel Di Maria (Benfica), Andres D’Alessandro (Internacional) Forwards: Lionel Messi (Barcelona), Carlos Tevez (Manchester United), Sergio Aguero (Atletico Madrid), Lisandro Lopez (Porto) (Reporting by Luis Ampuero, editing by Rex Gowar) >................ D’Alessandro earns Argentina recall after three years 12 hours, 19 minutes ago Buzz Up PrintBUENOS AIRES, Aug 23 (Reuters) - Former VfL Wolfsburg and Real Zaragoza midfielder Andres D’Alessandro has been recalled by Argentina for next month’s 2010 World Cup qualifiers against Paraguay and Peru. D’Alessandro, now playing for Internacional in Brazil having joined them from Argentine club San Lorenzo last month, is back after a three-year absence. He last played for Argentina in a 2006 World Cup qualifier away to Paraguay in September 2005. Argentina, second in the 10-nation South American group with 11 points from six qualifiers, are at home to leaders Paraguay, who have 13 points, on Sept. 6 before travelling to Lima to face bottom-placed Peru four days later. Coach Alfio Basile named an initial squad of 19 who play for foreign clubs, seven of them winners of the Olympic soccer tournament in Beijing on Saturday including Barcelona’s Lionel Messi and double gold medallist Javier Mascherano of Liverpool. The Argentine Football Association said on its website (www.afa.org.ar) that locally-based players could be added to the squad over the next few days. A place is almost certain to go to Boca Juniors playmaker Juan Roman Riquelme. Benfica winger Angel Di Maria, who scored the goal in Argentina’s 1-0 Olympic final victory over Nigeria, is called up for the first time. (Reporting by Luis Ampero; Writing by Rex Gowar in London; editing by Trevor Huggins) Yahoo. Sports Daryl Forza Argiesssssss |
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Ali-gol
IP: 72.140.78.144 Aug 28th, 2008 - 12:34 AM |
Re: Argentina World Cup Qualifiers
Aimar should be given another chance too he has so much talent!! |
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Katy
IP: 80.7.116.42 Sep 1st, 2008 - 8:07 PM |
Re: Argentina World Cup Qualifiers
Here are the dates for the next 4 matches.... 06/09/08 16:00 Buenos Aires Argentina v Paraguay 10/09/08 21:30 Lima Peru v Argentina 11/10/08 20:10 Buenos Aires Argentina v Uruguay 15/10/08 20:30 Santiago De Chile Chile v Argentina |
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Karun
IP: 203.144.240.114 Sep 3rd, 2008 - 11:46 AM |
Re: Argentina World Cup Qualifiers
Thanks Katy for the schedule... I believe we will to well in qualifying once again. First hope that the Argentine can show their Olympic performance once again and beat these 4 teams with stright wins 
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Brigie
IP: 190.58.71.251 Sep 5th, 2008 - 11:28 PM |
Re: Argentina World Cup Qualifiers
Hey Guys the Argentina vs Paraguay qualifying match is tomorrow Saturday at 3:00p.m. well Trinidad time.I hope we win Dar I don't know if Setanta Sports on channel 77 showing it but apparently it's on SportsMax I'll keep you abreast of the situation.  I hope we win guys 
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Daryl
IP: 190.59.15.104 Sep 6th, 2008 - 6:26 AM |
Re: Argentina World Cup Qualifiers
Brazil President praises Messi and sparks controversy 5 hours, 38 minutes ago RIO DE JANEIRO, Sept 5 (Reuters) - Brazil President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva sparked another footballing controversy on Friday after praising the fighting spirit of Argentina’s players and especially forward Lionel Messi. Brazil coach Dunga said he would prefer Lula to be more supportive and national team goalkeeper Julio Cesar suggested the president should live in Argentina. Lula, who upset striker Ronaldo on the eve of the 2006 World Cup by asking if he was fat, told reporters that when Brazil’s forwards lose the ball they expect the defence to clear up after them while Argentina’s players, such as Messi, chase back. His comments come with Brazil at a low ebb after failing to score in their last three games and dropping to a modest fifth in the South American World Cup qualifying group. “Every leader behaves differently,” Dunga told reporters, two days before Brazil play a World Cup qualifier in Chile. “We have great admiration for the president, and the great leader that he is, but logically, at a moment like this, we would have liked his support.” Brazil’s goalkeeper Julio Cesar was less diplomatic. “I voted for him and I was very upset, mainly because he gave Messi as an example,” he said. “He should go and live in Argentina, become an Argentine citizen, resign as president and maybe Brazil will improve in some way or another.” “I think the president was very unfortunate in these remarks. The president doesn’t think twice before speaking. “I think a few words of support would give us more strength and motivation on the field, not what he said.” Lula, a soccer fanatic and self-confessed supporter of Sao Paulo-based club Corinthians, angered Ronaldo on the eve of the last World Cup by asking if he was fat or not. Lula, whose backing was seen as fundamental in helping Brazil win the right to host the 2014 World Cup, apologised for the comment after Ronaldo made public his disapproval. (Editing by Ken Ferris) .............................. Basile brushes aside repeated failure to beat Paraguay 5 hours, 53 minutes ago By Brian Homewood BUENOS AIRES, Sept 5 (Reuters) - Argentina coach Alfio Basile said he was untroubled by their long-running failure to beat Saturday’s visitors Paraguay at home in a World Cup qualifier. Argentina have drawn the last four qualifiers they have hosted against their smaller neighbours and their last win was way back in 1973. “I don’t give any importance to those statistics,” Basile told reporters. “Absolutely not.” “What I can say is that Paraguay are strong opponents. “They have always been tough in defence and now they are strong in attack as well. They have four first-class forwards who are successful in different parts of the world.” Paraguay are leaders of the 10-team South American qualifying group ahead of Argentina, who did beat Paraguay 1-0 in a Copa America group game in Venezuela last year. “I hope we can repeat our performance in the Copa America,” said the gravel-voiced Basile, adding that Argentina needed to improve on their previous home game against Ecuador in June which they drew 1-1 after grabbing a late equaliser. “We’re aware we didn’t play well against Ecuador or, more to the point, we played badly. We owe our fans a good game.” The Paraguay match will be played at the Monumental stadium, Argentina’s traditional home venue since the 1978 World Cup which the country hosted and won. Basile, however, said he would be happy to play elsewhere. “I would like to play in the provinces like Brazil do,” said the coach, whose team suffered from a poor pitch and lukewarm support during the stalemate with Ecuador. “Argentina is full of great stadiums. Rosario is a great footballing city and the stadium would be full if we went and played there.” (Editing by Ken Ferris) Thanks bri..:) Forza Argies
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Katy
IP: 80.7.116.42 Sep 7th, 2008 - 12:35 AM |
Re: Argentina World Cup Qualifiers
67 mins gone... I couldn't get on the forum at half time, it looked like the server had gone down!!!  Anyway...it was a disastrous 1st half! Paraguay were leading 1-0.. a mistake by Heinze and an own goal. Heinze also clashed with Abbondanzieri who had to be stretchered off injured. Then TEVEZ got a red card (unfairly) so it was a nightmare!!!!  But Argentina have fought back and Aguero has equalised with a GREAT goal!!! 1-1  Fingers crossed!
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Katy
IP: 80.7.116.42 Sep 7th, 2008 - 6:14 PM |
Re: Argentina World Cup Qualifiers
I couldn't get on the forum at ALL after the match, last night, I think Bravenet were having problems with all of their services! Anyway... final score was 1-1, which was a bit of a relief after that dreadful first half! Here's a report for those of you who couldn't watch it... Paraguay Hold Ten Man Argentina Argentina 1 - 1 Paraguay After enduring a nightmare first half, Argentina fought back to draw this top of the table World Cup qualifying contest, and created enough opportunities with just 10 men to win the game comfortably. Carlos Tevez saw red and Gabriel Heinze scored a comical own goal to leave Argentina shell-shocked at halftime. But substitutions at the interval, including the introduction of one Kun Aguero, totally transformed the game. The Atletico superstar went on to tie things up, feeding off Lionel Messi on the hour to fire home. It was a dramatic turnaround for Alfio Basile's men, after the Olympic champions suffered an absolute nightmare of a first half, despite starting the better of the two sides. Argentina kicked off with new prospect Angel Di Maria playing just off Tevez, with Messi and and Juan Riquelme the creative forces, and Javier Mascherano and Esteban Cambiasso in front of a back four. The hosts immediately looked the more dangerous, as you would expect, attacking the Paraguayans with electric pace and crisp passing, with Messi in particular - sporting a new haircut - looking especially lively. The visitors seemed to have a received the first inkling of what sort of contest they could expect for the remainder of the game, when Riquelme cracked a free-kick off the cross bar early on, but Paraguay were to immediately gain the upper hand in the most bizarre circumstances. A high ball played down the field and behind the Argentine defence saw Heinze give chase with Nelson Valdez in hot pursuit. Heinze lept to head the ball, but missed it my a country mile. As it bounced back up off the turf, with Valdez in close quarters and Roberto Abbondanzieri rushing out, the ball glanced back off the now grounded Heinze toward goal, and with just enough force to pass the 'keeper and role gently into the net. To make matters worse, the incident forced Abbondanzieri off the field injured, to be replaced by Juan Carrizo. Tackles were soon flying in, but Argentina looked confused and evermore frustrated, while their opponents sat back and played their ideal game. On 30 mins, they probably couldn't believe their luck, as Tevez received a red card for a two-footed downward challenge on Veron. It seemed a little harsh, but fell well within the 'seen them given' category. By now, Argentina looked as if they had just stepped into the twilight zone, and their game plan temporarily fell to pieces. Paraguay looked the more fluid, and the half nearly became one of the most eventful in history (for Argentina, and for all the wrong reasons) when Carrizo was nearly tangled up in a Rene Higuita Italia '90 moment of embarrassment. The 'keeper came out of his area, received the ball but dallied for to long, and Valdez was oh so close to stealing it. Soon after, Argentina nearly committed defensive suicide, giving the ball away close to goal, and Cardozo was within inches of being set up to double the advantage. Half time could not have come soon enough for Basile's men. The break saw the introduction of Aguero and Daniel Diaz, for Di Maria and the unfortunate Heinze. Argentina took time to settle, but slowly found their groove again, and the chances began to flow, first and most importantly with the equaliser on the hour. Messi surged up field and toward the box, five opposition players in his wake, and slid the ball to Aguero expertly for the marksman to tap into the net. The next 20 minutes were laden with chances. Fabricio Coloccini missed a glorious opportunity, heading wide from a Riquelme cross, while moments later Aguero fired a teasing left foot shot just wide of the far post. The Atletico man was guilty of a glaring miss of his own on 75 minutes, failing to hit the target from close range, after a Diaz cross had deflected on to the post and fallen to Riquelme who crossed into the box. Argentina and Paraguay both came close to securing all points in the dying minutes. Vera denied Aguero at the final moment after Riquelme burst toward the penalty area and set up him up, while Carrizo was forced into an excellent save to avert Cardozo's powerful header. All in all a great match full of incident, and though Argentina know they wasted a host of chances in the second period, they will be thankful the first half nightmare was left firmly in the dressing room at the break. Goal.com |
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Katy
IP: 80.7.116.42 Sep 7th, 2008 - 6:19 PM |
Re: Argentina World Cup Qualifiers
And here are some pics from Fifa.com.....            
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Daryl
IP: 190.59.21.134 Sep 7th, 2008 - 7:02 PM |
Re: Argentina World Cup Qualifiers
Thanks Katy for the article. Thanks bri for the voice mails lol.. Sounds quite bizzare indeed, its not the best result but we all know they are capable of better I await the next game. Daryl Forza Argies
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Daryl
IP: 190.59.25.6 Sep 7th, 2008 - 11:33 PM |
Re: Argentina World Cup Qualifiers
Heinze and Tevez in the doghouse after comedy of errors 2 hours, 34 minutes ago * Buzz Up * By Brian Homewood BUENOS AIRES, Sept 7 (Reuters) - Carlos Tevez and his former Manchester United team mate Gabriel Heinze were both in the doghouse on Sunday after a comedy of errors in the first half of Argentina’s 1-1 draw at home to Paraguay. Tevez, sent off in the first half for the second time in three internationals, is automatically suspended for Wednesday’s visit to Peru after being booked and then receiving a straight red card for a studs-up challenge on Dario Veron. He could find himself out of the team for longer after Sergio Aguero, his direct rival for a place in the attack, came off the bench to score Argentina’s equaliser in the World Cup qualifier. Heinze, who has never been a unanimous choice to play on the left side of the defence, was taken off at halftime after scoring an own goal in the 13th minute and injuring goalkeeper Roberto Abbondanzieri in the process. “It was my mistake and I admit it, I take all the responsibility,” Heinze told Argentine media after he misjudged a long ball into his penalty area and headed it past Abbondanzieri. “I don’t know what happens next. I’m here and it’s up to the coach to decide. He will know why he took me off. “I know it’s a cliche but football always gives you another chance.” PETULANT KICK His future, however, looks brighter than that of Tevez, who had only just been given another chance by coach Alfio Basile after being sent off for petulantly kicking an opponent in the 2-1 defeat by Colombia in November. Tevez, who slunk out of the Monumental stadium without commenting, completed a one-match suspension against Ecuador in June but Basile decided not to call him up for the game against Brazil. Tevez, who played in last month’s friendly against Belarus, has yet to score in the qualifiers while Atletico Madrid’s Aguero, who helped the under-23 team win the gold medal at the Olympic Games in Beijing last month, has already notched two. Although Argentina are second in the 10-team South American qualifying group with 12 points from seven games and well on course for South Africa in 2010, they have drawn their last three games and lost the match previous to that. Critics are increasingly worried about why such a gifted team are performing only in fits and starts. Fingers are again being pointed at playmaker Juan Roman Riquelme, who struggled to break free of Paraguay’s fierce marking and often looked pedestrian, although he also hit the crossbar from a free kick and was involved in the equaliser. Removing Riquelme, whose inconsistency appears to reflect on the whole team, is likely to be the last option for Basile, a self-confessed admirer of the mercurial midfielder. Asked before the game to analyse Riquelme’s ups and downs, Basile declined to go into details. “I like Riquelme, that’s the end of the matter,” he said. (Editing by Sonia Oxley) yahoo sports Daryl |
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Daryl
IP: 190.59.25.6 Sep 9th, 2008 - 6:03 AM |
Re: Argentina World Cup Qualifiers
Tevez apologises after another red card 3 hours, 24 minutes ago BUENOS AIRES, Sept 8 (Reuters) - Argentina forward Carlos Tevez apologised on Monday after being sent off in the first half for the second time in three international appearances. Tevez was booked in the 16th minute of Saturday’s 1-1 World Cup qualifying draw with Paraguay for a tackle from behind and received a direct red in the 31st for a studs-up challenge on Dario Veron. Argentina were losing 1-0 at the time but manage to salvage a draw with a Sergio Aguero equaliser. “I’m sad because I left my team mates with 10 players again,” said the Manchester United player, adding that the first tackle should have been a straight red. “In the first incident, the referee could have sent me off. They were two senseless tackles, a rush of blood to the head which has made me miss another important Argentina game,” he told the TyC cable sports channel. He implied that the second incident was unintentional. “The Paraguayan was very cunning, as I soon as I lost the ball, he started rolling around on the pitch.” “I apologised to my team mates but they said I didn’t need to. I can’t find an explanation for what I did. The game was calm and I felt it was my match.” Tevez, suspended for Wednedsay’s visit to Peru, said he had received a talking-to from coach Alfio Basile. “I felt I had the coach’s confidence,” he said. “When we spoke, I told him how I felt and asked for forgiveness. Fortunately, he understood me.” Tevez was previously dismissed in November’s match in Colombia. Argentina, winning 1-0 at the time, went on to lose 2-1. (Reporting by Luis Ampuero; Writing by Brian Homewood, Editing by John Mehaffey) Yahoo sports Daryl Forza Argies |
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Juan
IP: 117.102.16.126 Sep 10th, 2008 - 8:55 PM |
Re: Argentina World Cup Qualifiers
Katy and Daryl + all ... You're special. Gracias for the posts. I'll post my ordinary opinions from now on her regarding our qualifiers. I DO hope 2010 is our's. Vamos Argentina!! |
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Katy
IP: 80.7.116.42 Sep 10th, 2008 - 11:21 PM |
Re: Argentina World Cup Qualifiers
It'll be great to hear your thoughts Juan!! Tonight's match will be shown here at 3.30 am!!! I'm afraid I'm not staying up until then so I'm gonna have to record it. I'm afraid I could only find this one little preview from Goal.com.... Peru-Argentina Date: 09-09-08 City: Lima (Peru) The clash between Peru and Argentina should be a heated affair because both teams have a lot to prove. Peru are likely to push out to the attack in the beginning, but their defensive woes could let them down once again. Peru are in a must-win situation, after a poor start to their campaign, and head coach, Jose Del Solar, whose side won their first match of the qualifiers against Venezuela on Saturday, will do their utmost to defeat the Argentines. Boosted by the return of Nolberto Solano Peru should put on a good display. However, this will not be an easy task. Alfio Basile counts with an incredibly talented squad and the fact that Argentina haven't won in their last four qualification matches puts heavy pressure on them to perform against the Peruvians. With the likes of Lionel Messi, Juan Roman Riquelme and Sergio Aguero (who scored against Paraguay), Argentina have enough quality to cruise past their opponents. But playing in Lima hasn't been easy for them in the past, and Peru promise to be very solid in the back. Argentina will be without the suspended pair of Carlos Tevez and Javier Mascherano, and are likely to make some modifications to their playing style. Still, Argentina are much superior to their opponents, and if they are at their best there will be no stopping them. Goal.com Prediction: Peru 1-2 Argentina Gregory Sica |
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Katy
IP: 80.7.116.42 Sep 10th, 2008 - 11:25 PM |
Re: Argentina World Cup Qualifiers
I found this article on the BBC website and it made me smile because there's a little mention of Bati at the end! I'm posting it in this thread because it's mainly to do with the WC qualifiers! What's wrong with Argentina? Tim Vickery 8 Sep 08, 07:39 AM In the course of one round, the pressure in South America's World Cup qualification campaign has changed hands. It was on Brazil, but their 3-0 win away to Chile takes them to second in the table, above Argentina on goal difference - an Argentina who have now gone four rounds without a win. And in this midweek's eighth round, Brazil have much the easier game, the home banker against Bolivia. Argentina, meanwhile, travel to Peru, who for all their problems have yet to lose in Lima in this campaign, and who will have their tails up after registering their first win on Saturday. So what's the problem with Argentina? There is no side in the world more pleasing on the eye, with their intricate midfield patterns. But for all their success at Olympic and Under-20 levels, their last senior title came in 1993. How can a side that circulate the ball so well be looking on Wednesday for their first win in five games? What's more, they seem to be aware that something is wrong. For the first 10 minutes at home to Paraguay on Saturday they were irresistible. The opening goal seemed a matter of time. But as soon as they went behind to Gabriel Heinze's own goal, the confidence drained out of them and for a while they were a shambles. The team sensed its own fragility. Perhaps they know that for all the interpassing they need to improve in both penalty areas, where matches are won and lost. Gabriel Heinze is an example, a good, gutsy club defender who is not up to international football. At the highest level he is exposed as being neither one thing nor the other. He's not quick enough to play full-back - the Brazil coaching staff made it very clear that playing on this won them last year's Copa America - and not commanding enough for a centre back - Saturday's own goal was another illustration. Now that Roberto Ayala has gone the Argentina back line is creaking. There is not a lot of pace there. Also, if they are going to select three centre backs, as they did on Saturday, then two of them must be capable of bringing the ball out of defence. If not, the consequence is a sequence of passes played back to the keeper - and Carrizo, the substitute goalkeeper who came on after first choice Abbondanzieri was injured, is not at his most comfortable with the ball at his feet. He did, though, produce one flying save to ensure that Argentina secured a 1-1 draw. All eyes will be on Carrizo on Wednesday. It is a long, long time since Argentina produced a top class keeper - an aspect of the game where they have been comprehensively overtaken by Brazil. One of Brazil's leading goalkeeping preparation specialists told me he thought Argentine keepers were strong on personality but weak on technique. In Argentina they are confident that the new generation has been better trained. Ustari, who injured himself in the Olympics, had a troubled season with Getafe in Spain but remains a hope. Romero, who took over from him, may be one for the future. But this is Carrizo's moment to show that he can provide the solution. At the other end of the field, Carlos Tevez has become a problem. On Saturday he was sent off in the first half - as happened in the last World Cup qualifier he played, away to Colombia. But when he manages to stay on the pitch his scoring record is hardly prolific - seven goals in 42 games. Sergio Aguero, who came off the bench to score Saturday's equaliser, looks a better bet. His extra pace means that he can be slipped behind the line. But Argentina have plenty of stocky little strikers. What is lacking, if only as an option on the bench, is a target man. The key to Brazil's 3-0 win in Chile was the physical power, aerial strength and cutting edge of centre forward Luis Fabiano. Since the decline of Hernan Crespo Argentina have missed this type of player. In the first 10 minutes against Paraguay the Olympic hero Di Maria, making his senior debut, put over two gorgeous crosses from the left. No one got on the end of them - if Batistuta was still around his eyes would have lit up.  BBC Sports |
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Brigie
IP: 190.58.66.42 Sep 11th, 2008 - 9:39 AM |
Re: Argentina World Cup Qualifiers
Kill me right now I think we're fifth stupid Peru equalised and only 30 seconds to go my God our defenders completely shutdown I miss Bati I want him to coach why they could not have hold on for 30 seconds I'm just saying we have to qualify in order to win .It was a calamity I just can't sleep now I'm so depressed  Why are we so unlucky.I do not even want to watch the other matches now
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Brigie
IP: 190.58.66.42 Sep 11th, 2008 - 9:53 AM |
Peru-1 Argentina-1
We are fourth but we're tied with Brazil in 2nd and Chile in 3rd on 13 points .I hope we step up our game against Uruguay in October [ . We need straight wins from now on
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Daryl
IP: 190.59.25.6 Sep 11th, 2008 - 3:43 PM |
Re: Argentina World Cup Qualifiers
Thanks for the texts and reports Bri, we have dropped to many points we should be winnng these games easily. But this COMMEBOL qualification is tougher n closer than all the years i have seen before No team has dominated to date. A sign that the other teams are stepping up? or the traditional powers not as strong as before? In the end I expect us to qualify, but our game must improve to win the copa mundial in South Africa. Daryl |
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Katy
IP: 80.7.116.42 Sep 12th, 2008 - 1:04 AM |
Re: Argentina World Cup Qualifiers
I'm glad I didn't watch it until tonight.. I don't think I'd have slept either Brigie! What a disaster at the end! Here's a couple of reports for those of you who missed it... 11/09/2008 06:27 Peru Hold Argentina In Final Minute Peru 1-1 Argentina A strike from Johan Fano in the final minute of injury-time rescued a valuable 1-1 draw for Peru against Argentina in a tight World Cup qualifier in Lima on Wednesday... The first half was very evenly matched as both sides tried their best to take the initiative, but both failed to dominate the ball possession in the midfield. As the half progressed Argentina did their best to get control of the ball, and at times they looked very dangerous when moving forward, but were constantly brought down by the tough tackling Peruvians. Peru, who edged Venezuela 1-0 on Saturday, came alive towards the end of the first half, but they could barely get a shot on target as the Argentine defence did well to keep their strikers out of the game. Argentina perhaps played the better football of the two teams in the first half, but they lacked creativity in their game, as the likes of Juan Roman Riquelme and Lionel Messi had little impact on the match. After the break Argentina picked up their game a touch, but although they played in Peru's half they could only manage to keep possession of the ball, and never really threatened the Peru goal. Peru crept into the match in the last half an hour, and they almost went ahead in the 75th minute when a Johan Fano header was kept out by Juan Pablo Carrizo. Minutes later a powerful Juan Vargas drive flashed inches wide of Carrizo's right post, to the relief of the Argentine camp. In the 80th minute Martin Demichelis came close to putting Argentina in the lead when he connected to a Riquelme free-kick with a powerful header that flew over the bar. But minutes later Argentina finally went ahead when Esteban Cambiasso met a superb ball from Fernando Gago at the front post with a clever finish. However, the match was to have one final twist, as in the final minute of injury-time Vargas slipped a precise ball into the area from the left wing and Fano slid the ball home to give Peru a share of the points. Goal.com ****************************************************************************** Argentina foiled by last-gasp equaliser (Reuters) Thursday 11 September 2008 Scoring the equalizer with the final kick of the match, Peru held a frustrated Argentina to a 1-1 draw in Lima on Wednesday. Argentina survived a torrid spell of second-half pressure and then snatched the lead with an Esteban Cambiasso goal in the 83rd minute. However, Johan Fano slid in the equaliser after a stunning 70-metre run by Juan Vargas in the fourth minute of injury time. The draw kept Argentina third in the ten-team South American group, level on 13 points with Brazil and Chile and four behind leaders Paraguay. Peru remained ninth with seven points. It was another frustrating evening for talent-laden Argentina, who have performed in fits and starts. Lionel Messi repeatedly found himself surrounded by three or four opponents and looked dispirited as he was hounded out of possession. His striking partner Sergio Aguero was isolated for most of the match and playmaker Juan Roman Riquelme's contribution was limited to a few free kicks. Nolberto Solano's probing passes put the Argentine defence under pressure and one of them provided an opening for Daniel Chavez, whose shot on the turn was brilliantly turned away by Argentina goalkeeper Juan Carrizo in the 66th minute. Carrizo, standing in for the injured Roberto Abbondanzieri, got down to stop a Fano near-post header following an in-swinging cross by Vargas 10 minutes later. With Peru tiring, Argentina took the lead. Riquelme found Messi with a crossfield pass and his low ball into the area was flicked in at the near post by Cambiasso. With the last move of the game, Vargas picked up the ball near his own penalty area, burst down the left and provided a low cross for Fano to turn into the net.
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Katy
IP: 80.7.116.42 Oct 9th, 2008 - 1:43 AM |
Re: Argentina World Cup Qualifiers
The next 2 matches are nearly upon us... the 11th and the 15th. Here are a few articles to get us in the mood.... hope the results are better this time! 08/10/2008 22:29 Riquelme Set To Start Against Uruguay Argentine playmaker, Juan Roman Riquelme, returned to training on Wednesday, after having recovered from physical problems that kept him out of training on Tuesday... Juan Roman Riquelme, the main playmaker of the Argentine national team, returned to full training with his teammates on Wednesday after recovering from physical problems that kept him from training on Tuesday. The Boca Juniors midfielder seemed to be back to full fitness during the session, and is expected to begin Saturday's crucial World Cup qualifier with Uruguay from the kick-off. Argentina trained behind closed doors with the entire 23-man squad Alfio Basile selected for the match with Uruguay in Buenos Aires and the one with Chile in Santiago. Riquelme, who has been in the centre of a feud with Boca teammate Julio Cesar Caceres in recent days, told the press that he is calm about the matter and only thinking about Argentina's two upcoming matches. In other team news, Real Madrid defender Gabriel Heinze is almost certain to start the match with Uruguay as well, as he was part of Argentina's starting XI in a training match versus the reserves. Heinze was left out of the side for the match against Peru last month, after an error of his costed his team a goal against Paraguay in a previous match days earlier. Gregory Sica ------------------------------------------- 07/10/2008 13:51 Aguero: We Must Beat Uruguay And Chile Atletico Madrid striker Sergio "Kun" Aguero affirmed that Argentina have no choice other than to beat Uruguay in a vital 2010 World Cup qualifier on Saturday... Sergio Aguero affirmed that Argentina "must win at all costs" in the highly anticipated River Plate derby against Uruguay, so that they can move closer towards World Cup qualification. He also stated that Argentina will look for the win against Chile in Santiago the following Wednesday. "At home it is important to win, and playing away as well. The matches won't be easy, but we have to win the six points," insisted the highly-rated Atletico Madrid striker. "These points are fundamental for us," affirmed the striker, who admitted that the Argentine national team haven't played well in recent outings, because "there isn't sufficient time for the group to work together." "We have two or three days of training, and because of this it is difficult," he explained to the local press at the Ezeiza airport. Aguero is expected to make Argentina's starting XI for the clash with Uruguay, even if he failed to impress in Argentina's previous two World Cup qualifiers against Paraguay and Peru. Gregory Sica -------------------------------- 07/10/2008 16:06 Milito Delighted With Argentina Call Up Diego Milito admitted to the press that he is looking forward to the opportunity to confront Uruguay in a crucial River Plate derby on Saturday... The Genoa striker, who arrived in Buenos Aires to join the Argentina squad, is looking forward to confronting Uruguay and Chile in two decisive World Cup qualifiers in the next week. Milito admitted to the press that he feels like a reference point inside of the area, and he believes a player of his characteristics is what Argentina have been lacking in recent outings. "Im a target man in the area, and I know this role very well. I'm very excite about this new chance, and hopefully I will be given an opportunity to play at-least a few minutes. It is always nice to return to the national team," stated Milito, minutes after arriving at Ezeiza international airport. "I am confident that the team will perform well in the next couple of matches. The objective is always to win no matter where we play," added the striker. Milito, who played a key role in Genoa's 3-2 win over Napoli on Sunday, having scored his teams third goal, has an outside chance of making Alfio Basile's starting XI against Uruguay. The striker insists that both matches will be extremely complicated. "We have difficult matches coming up. The World Cup qualifiers aren't easy and we hope to win on Saturday so that we can go to Chile with a more relaxed mood," he said. "It has been a while since we last won a match and the people want this and, they also want the team to play well, but sometimes it happens and other times it does not, because we also face teams with great players, and this makes things difficult," he concluded. Gregory Sica Goal.com ----------------------------------------------------- 27/09/2008 11:11 Basile Announces Provisional Squad Argentine national team coach, Alfio Basile has called up a provisional squad of 18 players outside of Argentina that will participate in the next series of World Cup qualifiers. All the usual suspects who ply their trade in Europe have made it to Basile’s squad list as Argentina attempt to get their CONMEBOL World Cup qualifying campaign back on track after a disastrous run of five games without a win. The 18 overseas-based names will be joined by the home-based players after they compete in the Torneo Cablevisión Apertura. There were little to no surprises about the coach’s selection and the only main dilemma was at goal as both his two first choice shot stoppers Roberto Abbondanzieri and Óscar Ustari – both of whom, ironically, also play for Getafe – are out injured. He will thus rely on Juan Pablo Carrizo and Sergio Romero. Centreback Nicolás Burdisso will also return to the squad after a calf ailment ruled him out of Los Albicelestes’ recent games. The only real surprise addition was leftback Luciano Monzón, who featured prominently in Sergio Batista’s gold medal-winning Olympic team, but has yet to earn a call-up to the senior squad until now. Fan favourites, Lionel Messi, Sergio Agüero and Carlos Tevez have all, ofcourse, made the squad as has in demand Benfica winger, Ángel Di María. Argentina will host close rivals Uruguay on the 11th of October before going on the road to face Chile four days later. Provisional Squad List Goalkeepers: Juan Pablo Carrizo (Lazio), Sergio Romero (AZ Alkmaar) Defenders: Javier Zanetti (Inter Milan), Pablo Zabaleta (Manchester City) Martín Demichelis (Bayern Munich), Cata Díaz (Getafe), Fabricio Coloccini (Newcastle United), Nicolás Burdisso (Inter Milan), Gabriel Heinze (Real Madrid), Luciano Monzón (Real Betis) Midfielders: Maxi (Atlético Madrid), Javier Mascherano (Liverpool), Esteban Cambiasso (Inter Milan), Ángel Di María (Benfica), Lionel Messi (Barcelona) Forwards: Carlos Tevez (Manchester United), Sergio Agüero (Atlético Madrid), Diego Milito (Genoa) KS Leong Goal.com |
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Richie
IP: 149.254.192.208 Oct 9th, 2008 - 3:00 AM |
Re: Argentina World Cup Qualifiers
Thanks for all the articles Katy! But where is Riquelme in that provisional squad??? Higher up the page somebody says he should be fit, but he's not in the squad.... There was a good article on him on bbc.co.uk recently, i will see if i can find it and stick it on here. It was all about how it would be a shame if he was droppped - it would indeed, he is a lovely player to watch, who relies on skill and vision instead of power and pace - a dying breed! I'll be gutted if he's not Argentina's number 10 in the next world cup! |
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Juán
IP: 117.102.16.97 Oct 9th, 2008 - 5:37 PM |
Re: Argentina World Cup Qualifiers
Hi all, The official squad for the games has been announced. The squad will be choosen from the following; Goalkeepers: Juan Pablo Carrizo (Lazio), Sergio Romero (AZ Alkmaar), Agustin Orion (San Lorenzo) Defenders: Javier Zanetti (Inter Milan), Martín Demichelis (Bayern Munich), Cata Díaz (Getafe), Fabricio Coloccini (Newcastle United), Nicolás Burdisso (Inter Milan), Gabriel Heinze (Real Madrid), Fabian Monzón (Real Betis) Midfielders: Juán Roman Riquelme (Boca Juniors), Maximiliano Rodriguez (Atlético Madrid), Javier Mascherano (Liverpool), Esteban Cambiasso (Inter Milan), Ángel Di María (Benfica), Pablo Zabaleta (Manchester City), Pablo Barrientós (San Lorenzo), Cristian Ledésma (San Lorenzo), Leandro Somóza (Velez Sarsfield) Forwards: Lionel Messi (Barcelona), Carlos Tevez (Manchester United), Sergio Agüero (Atlético Madrid), Diego Milito (Genoa), Gonzalo Bergessio (San Lorenzo). The referee for the derby is Carlos Torres the Paraguayan. - - - On sunday the big one - the river plate derby - Argentina X Uruguay. And whatsmore i would be there at el Monumental. .Just can't wait for the kick off. Vamos Argentina |
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Richie
IP: 155.198.184.64 Oct 9th, 2008 - 7:21 PM |
Re: Argentina World Cup Qualifiers
Wow, enjoy the match Juan! What I would give to be there, instead of slaving away at my desk here in London... I'll bet it will be a special atmosphere.
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Juán
IP: 117.102.16.97 Oct 9th, 2008 - 7:23 PM |
Re: Argentina World Cup Qualifiers
Infact the river plate derby is on saturday. I was in so hurry while posting the above. old age .. you know
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Juán
IP: 117.102.16.97 Oct 9th, 2008 - 7:40 PM |
Re: Argentina World Cup Qualifiers
Ja i'll be ready for the 'boludos' at the el Monumental, Richy. And here's a photo of Román in the training. The reason he was not in the provisional squad ? Well there wasn't any local player mentioned in that provisional squad. They were the players playing in the European league only.  Aguante Román Y Argentina  Saludos, Juán |
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Juán
IP: 117.102.16.97 Oct 11th, 2008 - 6:34 PM |
Re: Argentina World Cup Qualifiers
 Just can't wait for the el partido superclassico. Grande Albiceleste! Vamos Argentina! |
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Juán
IP: 117.102.16.97 Oct 11th, 2008 - 10:05 PM |
Re: Argentina World Cup Qualifiers
todo piola Last post before el partido superclassico. I want a complete thrashing of 'boludos' se toma todo el vino ya ya no queda mas....  Vamos ArgentinaSaludos, Juán. |
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Katy
IP: 80.7.116.42 Oct 12th, 2008 - 3:07 AM |
Re: Argentina World Cup Qualifiers
WoooHoooooooo.. just eneded!! It's a WIN!!!!  It wasn't a 'pleasant' match to watch  .... but the points are what matters! I've had too much alcohol to comment any further tonight... (the nerves got the better of me!!! )But at least we WON!!!!! 
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Juán
IP: 117.102.16.97 Oct 12th, 2008 - 4:42 PM |
Re: Argentina World Cup Qualifiers
La Selección Argentina retomó la senda exitosa: venció por 2-1 a la de Uruguay, en River Plate. Match Facts : Line up Argentina: Juan Pablo Carrizo; Nicolás Burdisso, Martín Demichelis, Gabriel Heinze; Javier Zanetti, Javier Mascherano, Esteban Cambiasso; Juan Román Riquelme; Lionel Messi; Carlos Tevez y Sergio Agüero Line up Uruguay: Juan Guillermo Castillo; Jorge Fucile, Diego Lugano, Diego Godín y Martín Cáceres; Maximiliano Pereira, Diegi Pérez, Sebastián Eguren y Cristian Rodríguez; Sebastián Abreu y Luis Suárez. Goals : 5m, Lionel Messi (A); 13m, Sergio Agüero (A) 40m, Diego Lugano (U). Replacements : 71m, Diego Milito for Sergio Agüero (A); 71m, Cristian Ledesma for Juan Román Riquelme (A); 74m, Carlos Bueno por Cristian Rodríguez (U); 74m, Javier Chevanton por Sebastián Abreu (U); 88m, Daniel Díaz por Lionel Messi (A). Bookings : 28m, Sebastián Eguren (U); 32m, Diego Godín (U). 49m, Juan Román Riquelme (A); 51m, Luis Suárez (U); 54m, Carlos Tevez (A); 60m, Gabriel Heinze (A); 63m, Javier Mascherano (A); 77m, Carlos Bueno (U); 82m, Lionel Messi (A) 84m, Diego Pérez (U). - - - - - - = = = - - - - - - Game Photos src="http://www.afa.org.ar/images/news/Festejo%20Segundo%20gol%20a%20Uruguay_11102008.JPG" alt="vamos argentina">       - - - My personal views ... later in the day. "Nada pudo cambiar todo lo que yo hoy siento por vos!!!!" Saludos, Juán. |
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Karun
IP: 125.24.81.70 Oct 12th, 2008 - 7:27 PM |
Re: Argentina World Cup Qualifiers
I watched the match and is happy with the result but I feel that Uruguay were too rough on Argentine. They takled very hard and many times purposely to stop Argentina's games. Referee needs to protect us more.
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Richie
IP: 155.198.184.64 Oct 12th, 2008 - 9:17 PM |
Re: Argentina World Cup Qualifiers
Great result!!! Well done Argentina Juan - how was it? Was the stadium full? It must have been a good atmosphere. Katy - how's the hangover??
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Juán
IP: 117.102.16.97 Oct 13th, 2008 - 5:15 AM |
Re: Argentina World Cup Qualifiers
The Paraguayan (Carlos Torres) was on a rampage, desperately eager to continue writing names of players in his book of gold. Some of the bookings were so frustrating. I mean the Messi's for instance late in the game. No one knew why he was booked, no one still is aware for that matter. Mascherano's was laughable. While that of Romy's was ridicolous. Oh he was booked for nothing. Torres then clarified to Argentine players on the pitch that he was booked for taking that kick too early for his liking thus a yellow card. Well my heart was in my mouth when Romy caught them on a fast counter attack. That tackle from behind was cynical but he got away from that. I instantly thought OH NO! Romy's gone. To make matters even more worse Torres didn't book Rodriguez for the same offence. He too took his free kick too early thus no booking. That was when Romy was pleading. He was so annoyed and naturally so. Back on the game. The two early strikes from el genio and Kun earned us first win of the calendar year and that too in the game against boludos. The first half of the game was lightening and the second was just another episode of typical River plate chess. We were good enough on the night to overcome the nasty boludos. GRACIAS La Selección Argentina.  The atmosphere was as electric Richie as ever. A typical river plate derby it was. Karun, the Uruguayans were frustrated by good Argentine display and that was it. In a river plate you don't expect less hermano. classic cliche: "Que amistoso ni que ocho cuartos". (It's never a friendly when these two meet).- - - Next up is Chile on Wednesday. I have faith in La Selección Argentina. Vamos Argentina! Saludos, Juán. |
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Hey Guys
IP: 190.58.64.215 Oct 13th, 2008 - 7:18 PM |
Re: Argentina World Cup Qualifiers
I missed the first half of the game and most of the second half , although i saw the repeat yesterday and they dominated the match in the 1st half but the second half they lasped and let uruguay get much of the ball ,they need to be consistent throughout the game this is crucial ,especially when we have Chile next and Bielsa as Chile's coach (I wish he hadn't retired).I hope we can get a another win against Chile because we desperately need it as Brazil are on our tail and Paraguay in the lead.
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Brigie
IP: 190.58.64.215 Oct 15th, 2008 - 2:06 AM |
Re: Argentina World Cup Qualifiers
OOPS that was me guys above sorry about that |
Omar
IP: 41.233.18.115 Oct 15th, 2008 - 2:39 PM |
Re: Argentina World Cup Qualifiers
Hey guys,I watched the match and I'm offcourse so happy we won as this match was very important to keep us close to the leaders(Paraguay).But although I'm happy for the result,I'm really worried about our team in the next matches,specially the defence,I think Burdisso and Demichilis are not a good couple.Burdisso is a right back and he's not a very good stopper.And Demichilis originally plays as a midfielder,but he can play as a defender a little bit well. This was the dark side of the match,but there is also a bright side which -I think- is represented by the legendary player:JAVIER ZANETTI,who plays as he's 20 years old and I think he's the best right back in the history of soccer.He has the same speed,power&spirit that he had 10 years ago.So this man is a real living legend. We're playing with Chile tonight and they have a far better attack than Uruguay do.They have Suazo who is a very good scorer,and they have Bielsa who is a very good coatch despite his failure with the legendary Argentine team in world cup 2002. So, they have Suazo,they have Bielsa, BUT WE HAVE MESSI, AND I GUESS THIS IS ENOUGH!!! |
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Richie
IP: 155.198.184.64 Oct 15th, 2008 - 6:58 PM |
Re: Argentina World Cup Qualifiers
Great stuff Juan! Glad to hear you enjoyed the match! I would love to think one day I'd have the opportunity to go over to Argentina to experience some football. But what is Coloccini doing sitting on the bench! This guy needs to be starting every match - doesn't the Argentina coach understand the importance of quality hair styles in football?! Here's hoping for an Argie victory tonight! |
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Juán
IP: 117.102.16.97 Oct 15th, 2008 - 10:04 PM |
Re: Argentina World Cup Qualifiers
Lol Richie. I know you admire the Newcastle duo's hair. I'm neither the only one not feared by Bielsa's Chile in the town nor ready to believe Chile (who were bundled by Christian Benitez) are better in offense than Uruguay, Omar. Just one line for the record and that is it. Vamos Argentina!!! Saludos, Juán. |
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Katy
IP: 80.7.116.42 Oct 16th, 2008 - 12:31 AM |
Re: Argentina World Cup Qualifiers
Well, 2 and a half hours to go... not sure if I can stay awake until the end, it's on late here! But I AM gonna record it, just in case I fall asleep! Richie.. I did have a bit of a hangover on Sunday , but the match was very frustrating and I desperately needed to calm my nerves!!! Anyway, I've just read this... 15/10/2008 04:15 Aguero Set To Face Chile Atletico Madrid superstar, Sergio Aguero, has recovered from injury in time and is set to turn out for Argentina against Chile in Santiago on Wednesday... Sergio 'Kun' Aguero has recovered in time, and will partner Lionel Messi in Argentina's intimidating attack to face Chile in a vital World Cup qualifier in Santiago. The Atletico Madrid striker picked up a knock in the violent River Plate derby with Uruguay on Saturday, and was in doubt for the game, but since then he has returned to full fitness and will surely be named in Argentina's strong starting XI for the highly anticipated clash. On Tuesday Los Albicelestes trained behind closed doors at the AFA headquarters in Ezeiza, and although Argentina head coach Alfio Basile has not announced his formation, reports suggest that there could be two changes to the team who faced Uruguay. The two players who could come in are Fabricio Coloccini and Cristian Ledesma, and it seems likely that Basile will alter his tactical approach, in the absence of suspended playmaker Juan Roman Riquelme. Argentina's most probable starting XI will look like the following: Juan Pablo Carrizo, Fabricio Coloccini, Martin Demichelis, Nicolas Burdisso, Gabriel Heinze, Javier Zanetti, Javier Mascherano, Cristian Ledesma, Esteban Cambiasso, Lionel Messi and Sergio Aguero. The Argentines have a good history against Chile in Santiago, and come into the clash as the clear favourites to claim what would be three crucial points. Gregory Sica Goal.com So Coloccini might be playing after all. We'll see very soon! FINGERS CROSSED for another win! 
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Daryl
IP: 190.59.6.116 Oct 16th, 2008 - 3:18 AM |
Re: Argentina World Cup Qualifiers
I am posting got a chance to see it live online http://www.ustream.tv/videoplayerpopup/channel/6102 Thanks to brigie for the link Forza Argie
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Katy
IP: 80.7.116.42 Oct 16th, 2008 - 4:13 AM |
Re: Argentina World Cup Qualifiers
I'm still awake.... just!!!!! BUT... Chile are leading 1-0 and Nicolas Burdisso had a dreadful injury in the earlier part of the match and was stretchered off! It's not looking good at the moment guys, Chile have outplayed us so far!   
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Karun
IP: 203.144.240.114 Oct 16th, 2008 - 6:37 AM |
Re: Argentina World Cup Qualifiers
Argentina lost by 1-0 with no excuse. This is terrible. -With our Riquelme Argentina could not do anything productive in mid-field. -There were not many through passes and almost no 1-2 trade mark passing. -We could loose more goals as Chile did very well in counter attack and were passing effectively. -Messi was completely out of the sight. -Aguero made his presence by running non-stop. -We could not pressure the opponent in the box area. -Defence were o.k. We have to accept that Chile were the better team today and Argentina need to get back in form ASAP. As there isn't nothing productive after Olympic.
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Brigie
IP: 190.58.64.215 Oct 16th, 2008 - 9:15 AM |
Re: Argentina World Cup Qualifiers
We lost and because Dar has supported me through this very difficult night I would like to say we lost but as Dar rightly said it's better we experience this lapse in performance now than we go on the world stage and embarass ourselves .I have to respect Bielsa though he left the field as soon as Chile won it must have been difficult for him yet it was a bittersweet victory on his part and if I'm not mistaken helooked teary eyed  .Thanks again Dar I don't know what I would have done without you  I mean I can't even celebrate Trinidad's victory over the USA because I'm so disappointed in Argentina
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Richie
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