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junker-town · 5 years

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1 thing to know about every MLS Cup playoff matchup

Photo by Shaun Clark/Getty Images

Zlatan faces off against the defender of the year, while Toronto FC sweats the fitness of Jozy Altidore.

MLS has a new playoff format for 2019, and it should be a lot of fun. Two-legged ties are out and single elimination is in.

Even with the away goals tiebreaker in place, teams often tried to play for a clean sheet on the road, thinking they could win at home if they pulled it off. If teams grabbed an away goal, they weren’t too bothered about going down a goal either. The product was, frankly, not very good as a result. MLS is hoping single elimination is going to be a lot more exciting, and it probably will be.

Here’s what you need to know ahead of this weekend’s whopping six games, plus some thoughts on the two teams that got first-round byes.

Minnesota-Galaxy is the must-watch game

Everyone loves to use disrespect as a motivator. Soccer coaches and saying “no one believed in us” — name a more iconic duo. But in the case of Minnesota United and Adrian Heath, the use of this cliche is warranted — seriously, no one thought they’d get a home playoff game. The Loons’ defense was historically bad in its first two seasons, and it was a bit surprising that Heath kept his job for 2019.

The offseason acquisitions of Osvaldo Alonso and Ike Opara were clearly good ones that were sure to help Minnesota’s defense, but both are in their 30s and have extensive injury histories. Minnesota got a lucky roll on the health of both — they played a combined 57 games, and Opara was named defensive player of the year.

Minnesota’s improved defense will be put to the test by Zlatan Ibrahimovic, who has been talking a lot of smack about how good he is in true Zlatan fashion. He may be obnoxious, but he also scored 30 goals this season.

These two teams last met in a 0-0 draw in April when they were both still finding their footing, so we don’t really have any regular-season games as a reference point for what might happen here. But we get to watch the self-proclaimed best player in MLS vs. the defensive player in the year. The league’s most historically successful team against the league’s best underdog story. If you’re going to watch one game, it should be this one.

Someone has to win RSL-Portland

On the flip side, the game with the least potential to produce any kind of interesting narrative is between Real Salt Lake and the Portland Timbers.

RSL has just one win over its fellow Western Conference playoff teams and lost both of its matches against Portland. The Timbers will be without striker Brian Fernandez, who scored 11 goals in 19 appearances, after he voluntarily entered the league’s substance abuse program. Club legend Diego Valeri will play, but he’s less than 100 percent after picking up a calf injury two weeks ago. Of all the teams in the playoffs, these are the two it’s hardest to make a case for winning MLS Cup.

But it’s not impossible to make a case for anyone, because MLS is weird. The best team in the league has won MLS Cup the last two seasons in a row, but before that the playoffs felt like a lottery. RSL is the No. 3 seed, after all, and Diego Valeri solo carried Portland to the final last season.

Seattle-Dallas winner will believe they can make a run

Despite finishing with the No. 2 seed, the Seattle Sounders have had a mildly disappointing year. Its goal differential is only plus-3, and star striker Raul Ruidiaz has cooled off big time, finishing with a disappointing 11 goals. FC Dallas will also be disappointed by only finishing seventh in the west, given its strong start and deep roster.

But these teams both have as much talent as anyone else in the league bar Los Angeles FC and Atlanta United, and the winner of this game should be favored over the RSL-Portland winner.

Dallas finally broke its run of bad form on the final day of the season, winning 6-0 over Sporting Kansas City. Youngsters Jesus Ferreira and Brandon Servania, whose form had dipped along with the team, turned in excellent performances in that game. Zdeněk Ondrášek is coming off an international break where he scored a game winner against England. Star midfielder Paxton Pomykal has had a few weeks of much-needed rest. Dallas won’t be entering this game feeling like the No. 7 seed.

Seattle, meanwhile, might have repaired its leaky defense. The Sounders allowed 49 goals this season, but kept clean sheets in its last two regular season games. And it seems unlikely that Ruidiaz, who has scored at a consistently high rate for four years across three different leagues, simply can’t put the ball in the net anymore. Assuming Christian Roldan and Jordan Morris haven’t suffered too much of a morale hit from getting waxed by Canada, the Sounders are going to put one of the best teams in the league on the field.

These teams are both loaded with talent, and a first-round win could inspire one of them to finally start playing like it.

How good is Toronto without Jozy Altidore?

D.C. United probably shouldn’t be able to beat Toronto FC on the road. The Black and Red couldn’t score against 9-man Cincinnati on the final day of the season, and star attacker Luciano Acosta has looked mentally checked out since the team botched a proposed sale to Paris Saint-Germain in September. But they’ll like their chances to pull an upset now that TFC could be without Jozy Altidore on Saturday.

Altidore has been limited to just 18 starts this season due to injury and international duty, and Toronto hasn’t replaced his scoring output when he’s been unavailable. Backup striker Patrick Mullins has two goals in eight appearances, and when Altidore went down in the regular season finale, winger Tsubasa Endoh moved up top.

Toronto has done pretty well to find goals from other sources despite only having an adequate starting striker in half its games. They’ve picked up 39 goals from players besides their center forwards, and given D.C. United’s recent form, might just need one to win the game.

The Reds have remained tight-lipped about Altidore’s injury, but here’s one writer’s guess at his status: He’ll be dressed on the bench in a case that says “break glass in case of emergency.” Coach Greg Vanney will be hoping he can just rest his star striker.

What have the young Union learned?

Last season, the Philadelphia Union turned in a naive playoff performance. The center back duo of Auston Trusty and Mark McKenzie were exposed for their inexperience by New York City FC.

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This year’s Union team is quite a bit better, but the center backs are still very young, and the team still conceded 50 goals this year. This year’s first round opponent, the New York Red Bulls, doesn’t have the same type of firepower, but still beat Philly 2-0 less than a month ago. The Union need better performances from their talented young defenders.

The Union are notable for spending less money than most MLS teams, and are openly pursuing a policy of developing youth to make money. Philly obviously wants to win playoff games, but also sees them as a shop window. Here’s what head coach Jim Curtin told the Philadelphia Inquirer’s Jonathan Tannenwald about the potential sales of McKenzie and Trusty.

“If the moment comes at the right time, we will be smart but aggressive in that first sale, because it is important for the club ... We want to win first here, but when the moment does come, I’m still confident that those guys will have big value in Europe.”

Trusty has actually been out of the lineup recently, but McKenzie is firmly locked in as a starter for both the Union and USMNT Under-23s. These playoffs are an opportunity for him to show he’s grown from last season and worth a seven-figure fee.

Atlanta really should coast through these first two games

Hey, shoutout to Bruce Arena. He took a hopeless looking New England Revolution team and guided it to a playoff spot, going 9-3-10 since taking over in May. Carles Gil is one of the most exciting players in MLS, and Revs fans can look forward to a promising future with a team built around his talents.

Having said that, Atlanta posted a 3-1 win over the Revs on the final day of the season and will be expected to win even more comfortably this weekend. Josef Martinez appears to be fully fit after an injury scare and the Revs have been torched by less prolific forwards Jeremy Ebobisse and Dom Dwyer in recent weeks. Any result but a multiple goal Atlanta win would be surprising.

Atlanta is also a lot better than the aforementioned Red Bulls and Union. The former doesn’t have a decent striker and the latter has been wildly inconsistent all year on account of its youth. Frank de Boer will have some hard questions to answer if Atlanta fails to make the conference finals.

Uh, LAFC kinda dropped off

LAFC was so good during the first half of the season that it didn’t even need to play well over the final two months to clinch the best record in MLS history. Bob Bradley’s team earned a first round bye very comfortably, but only won two of its final eight games, and didn’t keep a clean sheet in any of those matches. It will struggle to keep one in its first playoff game too if star defender Walker Zimmerman doesn’t recover from the concussion he suffered in the final game of the season.

The club is also currently without starting striker Adama Diomande, who has voluntarily entered the league’s substance abuse program. The rotation of makeshift strikers Bradley has tried out in his absence haven’t quite gotten the job done. And there’s no word yet on how long LAFC will be without midfielder Mark-Anthony Kaye, who was injured in Canada’s win over the USMNT this week.

Carlos Vela is the best player in MLS, and could conceivably carry 10 USL teammates to an MLS playoff win. But he’d probably rather have Diomande, Kaye and Zimmerman to play with.

NYCFC has been quietly and consistently good

Between Domenec Torrent’s struggles in his first half-season with NYCFC and the departure of David Villa, this was expected to be a transition season for the Blues. Its failure to win in the first six games of the season was further evidence that would be the case. But instead, NYCFC has been consistently good, losing twice in a row on only one occasion and finishing top of the Eastern Conference easily.

Youngsters James Sands and Keaton Parks have been consistently solid in the center of the pitch, while the attacking trio of Valentín Castellanos, Alexandru Mitriță and Heber has collectively replaced Villa’s output. The team looks very comfortable in its 3-5-2 shape and balances defensive solidity with getting a lot of numbers into the box very well.

NYCFC isn’t particularly flashy, or boring. It doesn’t have superstars, but doesn’t lack for attacking talent either. The defenders and central midfielders look like they know what their jobs are in Torrent’s system. People are talking more about NYCFC’s stadium situation than what it does on the pitch, but this is a rock solid team that should be favored to win MLS Cup.

MLS Cup Playoffs first round (all times ET)

Atlanta United vs. New England Revolution — Saturday, 1 p.m., Univision

Seattle Sounders vs. FC Dallas — Saturday, 3:30 p.m., FS1

Toronto FC vs. D.C. United — Saturday, 6 p.m., TDN

Real Salt Lake vs. Portland Timbers — Saturday, 10 p.m., ESPN News

Philadelphia Union vs. New York Red Bulls — Sunday, 3 p.m., FS1

Minnesota United vs. LA Galaxy — 8:30 p.m., ESPN

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ladyarse · 4 years

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Vela: I wasn't ready to join Arsenal - everything was too fast

Vela: I wasn’t ready to join Arsenal – everything was too fast

Carlos Vela admits he wasn’t ready to join Arsenal when he did, and it put a mental strain on him as such a young player.

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Carlos Vela of LAFC reacts after earning a corner kick on April 13, 2019. (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images)

Carlos Vela joined Arsenal in 2005 when he was just 16 years old. He made 62 appearances for the Gunners in all competitions but never…

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bdelger-blog · 5 years

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The Rise of Soccer Culture in America

Photo courtesy of MLSsoccer.com

Historically, soccer has definitely not been part of American culture. However, recent audience records suggest that this is about to change.

Since 2012, according to Nielsen Sports Sponsorlink, television audiences suggest that there has been a 27% rise in interest in the sport (1). In 2016, the MLS also saw the rise of Atlanta United, a team that rapidly gathered a competitive squad and won the domestic competition in 2018. This is indicative of soccer’s rise in popularity in the last decade.

The United States has become an ideal place for superstar players to come in their last years of their careers and compete until retirement. Thus, the MLS has seen the arrival of superstars such as Rooney, Ibrahimovic, and Carlos Vela among others.

Retired superstar David Beckham will inaugurate his dream-team in Miami as of next year. The MLS is on the rise in all aspects of the word, and this is catapulting soccer culture in America.

As the domestic league increases in competition, America will begin fostering great talents as young children become influenced and aspire to become like the arriving superstars. Culture is changing, and the U.S. could be a soccer powerhouse in the next decade.

1. https://news.gallup.com/poll/224864/football-americans-favorite-sport-watch.aspx

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footballnewspapers · 5 years

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Colorado Rapids Vs LAFC: 3 things we learned

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LOS ANGELES, CA – MARCH 10: Carlos Vela #10 of Los Angeles FC during Los Angeles FC’s MLS match against Portland Timbers at the Banc of California Stadium on March 10, 2019 in Los Angeles, California.Los Angeles FC won the match 4-1 (Photo by Shaun Clark/Getty Images)

A 1-0 upset win over LAFC for the Colorado Rapids gives them renewed hope in their quest to turn their season around.…

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#colorado #learned #rapids #things

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usacurrentnews-blog · 6 years

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LAFC, Revolution battle to 1-1 draw in MLS – Press Enterprise

Los Angeles FC defender Walker Zimmerman (25) moves the ball down against the New England Revolution during the first half of a Major League Soccer match at the Banc of California Stadium in Los Angeles, Calif. on Saturday September 15, 2018. (Photo by Raul Romero Jr, Contributing Photographer)

Los Angeles FC forward Marco Urena (21) is hugged by Los Angeles FC forward Carlos Vela (10)…

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365footballorg-blog · 6 years

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MLS All-Star roster set, with record 16 countries represented

June 29, 201811:44AM EDT

All-Star Coach Gerardo ‘Tata’ Martino makes gameday roster selections for 2018 MLS All-Star Game presented by Target; two selections by MLS Commissioner Don Garber round out 26-man roster for Aug. 1 match vs. Juventus in Atlanta

NEW YORK (Friday, June 29, 2018) – Major League Soccer’s star-studded roster is set for the 2018 MLS All-Star Game presented by Target, and it will showcase the most diverse group in the league’s history. Today, Atlanta United head coach Gerardo “Tata” Martino made 14 selections, while two players were honored as Commissioner’s picks by MLS Commissioner Don Garber, for the highly anticipated event against Italian powerhouse Juventus Football Club on Wednesday, Aug. 1, at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta (7:30 p.m. ET, live on ESPN, UniMás, TSN and TVA Sports).

The MLS All-Stars will feature 10 players with FIFA World Cup experience, including five participants in this year’s tournament, among 16 of the league’s teams. The roster features players from 16 countries – the most in MLS All-Star Game history, eclipsing the previous record of 13 in the 2016 and 2017 MLS All-Star Games.

CLICK HERE for soundbytes from MLS All-Star coach Tata Martino and MLS All-Star players.

Martino’s selections include a combination of young talent that recently featured at the 2018 FIFA World Cup, veteran leadership such as 2010 FIFA World Cup winner David Villa (New York City FC), and an intriguing MLS All-Star Game connection in former Juventus star Sebastian Giovinco (Toronto FC), who led TFC to the 2017 MLS Cup crown and earned MVP in the Concacaf Champions League during the Reds’ runner-up performance. Martino’s midfield corps is headlined by Mexico’s Jonathan dos Santos (LA Galaxy) – one of three MLS players on Mexican side that advanced out of the group stage at this year’s World Cup – and Peruvian Yoshimar Yotún (Orlando City SC) who helped set up his country’s first World Cup goal in 40 years earlier this month in Russia. The defensive group features 23-year-old goalkeeper Zack Steffen (Columbus Crew SC), who notably shut down Martino’s Atlanta side during the 2017 MLS Cup Playoffs with two penalty kick shootout stops en route to the Eastern Conference Championship.

The All-Star Game honorees chosen by Commissioner Garber include 17-year-old Canada National Team phenom Alphonso Davies (Vancouver Whitecaps FC), who was the 2017 Concacaf Gold Cup Golden Boot winner, and two-time MLS Golden Boot winner Bradley Wright-Phillips (New York Red Bulls).

Martino selected additional players to the roster to replace Atlanta United midfielder Darlington Nagbe, who was voted to the 2018 MLS All-Star Fan XI presented by Target, but will be unavailable for the match due to injury.

The MLS All-Star Fan XI, nominated by media and selected by fans, features Mexican star forward Carlos Vela (Los Angeles Football Club – EA SPORTS™ “More Than a Vote” Challenge), who propelled Mexico into the Knockout Round of the 2018 FIFA World Cup. The Fan XI also includes Atlanta United’s young attacking trio of Miguel Almirón, Ezequiel Barco and current MLS Golden Boot frontrunner Josef Martínez, and Sweden great Zlatan Ibrahimović (LA Galaxy).

The 2018 MLS All-Stars will face Italian giants Juventus, who won their seventh consecutive Serie A title earlier this year. Juventus is the most decorated club in Italy, winning more Serie A and Coppa Italia titles than any other Italian club. Juventus also reached the UEFA Champions League final in two of the past four years (2015, 2017). The team is managed by Massimiliano Allegri, who just completed his fourth season with the club.

Tickets to the 2018 MLS All-Star Game against Juventus are now on sale by visiting Ticketmaster.com. Tickets start as low as $ 35.

CLICK HERE for 2018 MLS All-Star Game presented by Target logos, photos and b-roll.

Media planning to cover the 2018 MLS All-Star Game presented by Target may apply for credentials by CLICKING HERE. Without exception, credential applications must be received by Wednesday, July 18.

2018 MLS All-Star Game Roster by Position

Goalkeepers: Brad Guzan^ (Atlanta United), Zack Steffen* (Columbus Crew SC)

Defenders: Francisco Calvo* (Minnesota United), Laurent Ciman^ (Los Angeles Football Club), Alphonso Davies# (Vancouver Whitecaps FC), Matt Hedges* (FC Dallas), Aaron Long* (New York Red Bulls), Michael Murillo* (New York Red Bulls), Michael Parkhurst^ (Atlanta United), Graham Zusi^ (Sporting Kansas City)

Midfielders: Miguel Almirón^ (Atlanta United), Ezequiel Barco^ (Atlanta United), Jonathan dos Santos* (LA Galaxy), Alberth Elis* (Houston Dynamo), Ignacio Piatti* (Montreal Impact), Alexander Ring* (New York City FC), Ilie Sanchez* (Sporting Kansas City), Diego Valeri^ (Portland Timbers), Yoshimar Yotún* (Orlando City SC), Wilfried Zahibo* (New England Revolution)

Forwards: Sebastian Giovinco* (Toronto FC), Zlatan Ibrahimović^ (LA Galaxy), Josef Martínez^ (Atlanta United), Carlos Vela^ (Los Angeles Football Club), David Villa* (New York City FC), Bradley Wright-Phillips# (New York Red Bulls)

^Fan XI selection

*Gerardo “Tata” Martino selection

#Commissioner Don Garber selection

2018 MLS All-Star Game Roster by Team

Atlanta United (5): Miguel Almirón, Ezequiel Barco, Brad Guzan, Josef Martínez, Michael Parkhurst

Columbus Crew SC (1): Zack Steffen

FC Dallas (1): Matt Hedges

Houston Dynamo (1): Alberth Elis

LA Galaxy (2): Jonathan dos Santos, Zlatan Ibrahimović

Los Angeles Football Club (2): Laurent Ciman, Carlos Vela

Minnesota United FC (1): Francisco Calvo

Montreal Impact (1): Ignacio Piatti

New England Revolution (1): Wilfried Zahibo

New York City FC (2): Alexander Ring, David Villa

New York Red Bulls (3): Aaron Long, Michael Murillo, Bradley Wright-Phillips

Orlando City SC (1): Yoshimar Yotún

Portland Timbers (1): Diego Valeri

Sporting Kansas City (2): Ilie Sanchez, Graham Zusi

Toronto FC (1): Sebastian Giovinco

Vancouver Whitecaps FC (1): Alphonso Davies

Bios for 2018 MLS All-Star Game Roster:

GOALKEEPERS:

Brad Guzan | Goalkeeper | Atlanta United | Nationality: USA | Born: September 9, 1984

A member of the U.S. Men’s National Team, Guzan was named to his country’s 2010 and 2014 FIFA World Cup rosters, competed in the 2007 and 2015 Concacaf Gold Cups, the 2007 Copa America and the 2016 Copa America Centenario, where he was the starting goalkeeper. In his first season with Atlanta United in 2017, Guzan made 14 starts and finished with the third-best goals-against average (0.71) in the league. In addition, he also recorded the sixth-longest shutout streak in MLS at 541 minutes. Guzan was previously named to the MLS Best XI in 2007 and was the starting goalkeeper for the U.S. U-21 team in the 2008 Beijing Olympics. This is Guzan’s second MLS All-Star selection (2007, 2018).

Zack Steffen | Goalkeeper | Columbus Crew SC | Nationality: USA | Born: April 2, 1995

Steffen has been dubbed the future of goalkeeping for the U.S. National Team, notably posting seven saves to earn a draw against France earlier this year. The 23-year-old with 30 saves in 14 appearances this regular season is tied for a league-best seven shutouts, including five clean sheets and 17 saves from May 5-27. Steffen leads MLS with the lowest goals-against average (0.79) among goalkeepers appearing in nine or more games in 2018. His 19 saves during the Audi 2017 MLS Cup Playoffs were instrumental in Crew SC’s postseason run to the Eastern Conference Championship. This is Steffen’s first MLS All-Star Game selection.

DEFENDERS:

Francisco Calvo | Defender | Minnesota United FC | Nationality: Costa Rica | Born: July 8, 1992

The captain of Minnesota United FC and a member of the Costa Rica National Team, Calvo earned a trip to the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia. Calvo tallied two goals and an assist in 27 games during his inaugural MLS season in 2017. A versatile player who can play multiple defensive positions, Calvo has earned his first MLS All-Star Game selection.

Laurent Ciman | Defender | Los Angeles Football Club | Nationality: Belgium | Born: August 5, 1985

A member of the Belgium National Team, Ciman was a part of the squad in the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil. In his inaugural year in MLS, he brought Montreal to the Concacaf Champions League final and the MLS Cup Playoffs and earned Impact Defensive Player of the Year. In addition, Ciman was named to MLS Best XI in 2015 and was awarded MLS Defender of the Year. This is Ciman’s third selection to the MLS All-Star Game (2015, 2016, 2018).

Matt Hedges | Defender | FC Dallas | Nationality: USA | Born: April 1, 1990

The 2016 MLS Defender of the Year, Hedges has become one of the most important players to the FC Dallas team and defense. Hedges was previously named to the MLS Best XI in 2015 and 2016. He has also earned five caps with the U.S. National Team. This is Hedges’ second MLS All-Star Game selection (2017, 2018).

Aaron Long | Defender | New York Red Bulls | Nationality: USA | Born: October 12, 1992

After winning the 2016 USL Cup and earning USL Defender of the Year with the New York Red Bulls II, Long has made a smooth transition to the Red Bulls back line for the past two MLS seasons. From 2017-18, Long has started in 43 of 46 games with three goals in regular-season play. He also made three starts during the 2017 MLS Cup Playoffs. This is Long’s first MLS All-Star Game selection.

Michael Murillo | Defender | New York Red Bulls | Nationality: Panama | Born: February 11, 1996

A member of the Panama National Team, Murillo has most recently taken his talents to the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia. Murillo originally played for San Francisco FC’s youth academy in Panama, eventually transferring to the club’s first division team. This is Murillo’s first MLS All-Star Game selection.

Michael Parkhurst | Defender | Atlanta United | Nationality: USA | Born: January 24, 1984

The six-time MLS All-Star selection (2005, 2007, 2008, 2014, 2017, 2018) is one of the most celebrated defenders in MLS. Parkhurst has played for the U.S. Men’s National Team, earning 25 caps and winning the 2007 and 2013 Concacaf Gold Cup. He was awarded MLS Rookie of the Year in 2005, Defender of the Year in 2007, and was named to the MLS Best XI in 2007. Parkhurst became the first team captain for Atlanta United.

Graham Zusi | Defender | Sporting Kansas City | Nationality: USA | Born: August 18, 1986

The U.S. National Team defender has made 55 international appearances and was an integral player for the 2014 FIFA World Cup. Zusi has excelled for Sporting Kansas City, spending the entirety of his 10-year career with the team, and has helped Sporting earn the current top spot in the Western Conference. He is second in club history with 57 assists. Zusi was also previously named to the MLS Best XI in 2012 and 2013. This is Zusi’s sixth MLS All-Star selection (2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2017, 2018).

MIDFIELDERS:

Miguel Almirón | Midfielder | Atlanta United | Nationality: Paraguay | Born: February 10, 1994

A member of the Paraguay National Team, Almirón starred for his country in the 2013 FIFA U-20 World Cup before breaking out in 2016 at the Copa America Centenario. The 24-year-old had an impressive first season, recording nine goals and 14 assists. On the 2018 season, he currently has six goals and seven assists. He was named the 2017 MLS Newcomer of the Year, was ranked No. 1 in the 2017 MLS 24 Under 24 list, was named to the 2017 MLS Best XI and was a finalist for 2017 Most Valuable Player. This is Almirón’s second MLS All-Star selection (2017, 2018).

Ezequiel Barco | Midfielder | Atlanta United | Nationality: Argentina | Born: March 29, 1999

The Argentina youth star, despite an early-season injury, has showcased his talent to the tune of three goals and an assist since early May to lead the club to first place in the Eastern Conference. He has played for Argentina’s U-20 team and made eight appearances. Before playing for Atlanta this season, Barco played for Independiente, and made appearances in Copa Sudamericana and Copa Argentina. This is Barco’s first MLS All-Star selection.

Alphonso Davies | Midfielder | Vancouver Whitecaps FC | Nationality: Canada | Born: November 2, 2000

The Canada National Team phenom and one of the youngest active MLS players in the league, Davies had an impressive 2017 with Vancouver. Davies also earned international acclaim when he won the 2017 Concacaf Gold Cup Golden Boot and was named to the tournament’s Best XI at age 16. During the 2018 MLS season, Davies ranks third in assists with seven. This is Davies’ first MLS All-Star Game selection.

Jonathan dos Santos | Midfielder | LA Galaxy | Nationality: Mexico | Born: April 26, 1990

A member of the Mexico National Team, dos Santos has most recently represented his country in the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia, as well as the 2017 FIFA Confederations Cup. Dos Santos signed with the LA Galaxy in 2017 as a Designated Player after playing for Barcelona and Villarreal. This is his first MLS All-Star Game selection.

Alberth Elis | Midfielder | Houston Dynamo | Nationality: Honduras | Born: February 12, 1996

A member of the Honduras National Team since 2014, the 22-year-old Elis has been a budding member of the Dynamo since his 2017 debut. Elis scored 10 goals and four assists in 2017, and he is on his way to an even stronger 2018 MLS campaign. This year he has tallied eight goals and five assists in just 15 matches. During Concacaf Champions League play, Elis was named the tournament’s Best Young Player when he was competing for Olimpia. Elis earns his first MLS All-Star Game selection.

Ignacio Piatti | Midfielder | Montreal Impact | Nationality: Argentina | Born: February 4, 1985

The Montreal Impact star is once again putting together strong season in 2018 with eight goals and six assists. Piatti was named the Impact team MVP the past three seasons (2015-17). A model of consistency, Piatti recorded 17 goals and six assists in both the 2016 and 2017 seasons. He was named to the MLS Best XI in 2016. This is Piatti’s third MLS All-Star Game selection (2016, 2017, 2018).

Alexander Ring | Midfielder | New York City FC | Nationality: Finland | Born: April 9, 1991

A member of the Finland National Team, Ring has earned 44 appearances while scoring two goals in international play. Ring was selected as New York City FC’s Newcomer of the Year in 2017, posting four assists in 29 regular-season games after a successful career with FC Kaiserslautern. This is Ring’s first MLS All-Star Game selection.

Ilie Sanchez | Midfielder | Sporting Kansas City | Nationality: Spain | Born: November 21, 1990

Sporting Kansas City’s Newcomer of the Year in 2017 had a strong first season, appearing in 33 regular season games while adding two assists and helping contribute to 11 shutouts. This year, Sanchez has recorded two goals and three assists in 16 games as SKC leads the Western Conference. This is his first selection to the MLS All-Star Game.

Diego Valeri | Midfielder | Portland Timbers | Nationality: Argentina | Born: May 1, 1986

The 2017 Landon Donovan MLS MVP, Valeri finished last season with 21 goals and 22 assists and has starred for the Portland Timbers in all six years in the league, winning the Golden Boot in 2013, his first year with Portland. Valeri, who has made three appearances for the Argentina National Team, holds the record for the fastest goal in MLS Cup history and was previously named to the MLS Best XI in 2013, 2014 and 2017. This is Valeri’s fifth MLS All-Star Game selection (2013, 2014, 2016-2018).

Yoshimar Yotún | Midfielder | Orlando City SC | Nationality: Peru | Born: April 7, 1990

A starter and difference-maker for both club and country, Yotún played a heavy part in Peru’s run to the 2018 FIFA World Cup, as well as the buildup toward Peru’s first World Cup goal in 40 years. Yotún started in all three group matches in Russia. For Orlando City SC, Yotún has three goals and five assists this season. The creative midfielder has the versatility to also play as an attacking left back. This is Yotún’s first MLS All-Star Game selection.

Wilfried Zahibo | Midfielder | New England Revolution | Nationality: France | Born: August 21, 1993

In his inaugural season with the New England Revolution, Zahibo has three goals and four assists in 16 games played. After seven professional seasons in France and Spain, Zahibo made the transition to MLS from Valencia CF and La Liga. This is Zahibo’s first MLS All-Star Game selection.

Sebastian Giovinco | Forward | Toronto FC | Nationality: Italy | Born: January 26, 1987

Giovinco led Toronto FC to a historic treble in 2017 – the Supporters’ Shield, MLS Cup crown and the Canadian Championship title. A game changer since his MLS debut in 2015, Giovinco’s opening campaign included a record-breaking tally of combined goals and assists as he collected MLS Golden Boot, Newcomer of the Year, and Landon Donovan MLS MVP honors. Earlier in 2018, Giovinco was named the MVP of the Concacaf Champions League, leading Toronto to a runner-up finish. This is Giovinco’s fourth MLS All-Star Game selection (2015-18).

Zlatan Ibrahimović | Forward | LA Galaxy | Nationality: Sweden | Born: October 3, 1981

Signing with the Galaxy earlier this year, Ibrahimović stormed into the league with two late goals during his LA Galaxy debut on March 31. For 2018, he has tallied seven goals and three assists in 11 games played. The former Juventus player is Sweden’s all-time leading goal scorer with 62 goals in 116 games. Ibrahimović has played in two FIFA World Cups (2002, 2006). This is Ibrahimović’s first MLS All-Star Game selection.

Josef Martínez | Forward | Atlanta United | Nationality: Venezuela | Born: May 19, 1993

The top goal scorer in MLS for the 2018 season, Josef Martínez, had a wondrous first season in 2017 with recording 19 goals – the most ever by a player on an expansion team. In 2018, Martinez has scored a league-leading 14 goals. The 24-year-old was awarded both MLS Player of the Month and MLS Player of the Week two times in 2018. Martinez is a member of the Venezuela National Team in which he has been capped 42 times. This is Martínez’s first MLS All-Star selection.

Carlos Vela | Forward | Los Angeles Football Club | Nationality: Mexico | Born: March 1, 1989

A crucial member of the Mexico National Team, Vela has played in two World Cups (2010, 2018) and has won the Concacaf Gold Cup on two occasions. Before coming to LAFC, Vela played for such teams as Arsenal, Salamanca, Osasuna and Real Sociedad. He earned the Real Sociedad Player of the Year in 2011-12 and 2013-14. Now playing for LAFC, Vela has a team-leading seven goals and five assists. Vela has earned his first MLS All-Star selection.

David Villa | Forward | New York City FC | Nationality: Spain | Born: December 3, 1981

The 2016 Landon Donovan MLS MVP and captain of New York City FC, Villa was also an integral member for the Spain National Team in three FIFA World Cups (2006, 2010 and 2014); he scored five goals in leading Spain to its first World Cup crown in 2010. In 2018, Villa has tallied eight goals and four assists as New York City FC is once again among the top teams in the Eastern Conference. This is Villa’s fourth consecutive MLS All-Star Game selection (2015-18).

Bradley Wright-Phillips | Forward | New York Red Bulls | Nationality: England | Born: March 12, 1985

A two-time MLS Golden Boot Winner, Phillips has spent the entirety of his MLS career with the Red Bulls since 2013. In the 2018, he has netted 11 goals, which ranks second among the league leaders. In 2017, Wright-Phillips became the first player in Red Bulls history to reach 100 goals among all competitions – MLS regular season and postseason play, the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup and Concacaf Champions League. He was named to the MLS Best XI in 2014 and 2016. This is his second MLS All-Star Game selection (2014, 2018).

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ultrasfcb-blog · 6 years

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World Cup 2018: Sweden attain final 16 with win over Mexico

World Cup 2018: Mexico 0-Three Sweden highlights

Sweden propelled themselves into the World Cup knockout stage with a good-looking victory over Mexico that certified them as Group F winners and condemned Germany to early elimination.

Mexico, undone on the counter assault and from the penalty spot earlier than conceding an personal purpose, joined Sweden in reaching the subsequent spherical as runners-up regardless of the defeat on account of the defending champions additionally dropping.

Germany, the four-time World Cup winners, had been crushed 2-Zero by South Korea and failed to succeed in the knockout stage for the primary time in 16 consecutive appearances since 1954.

Sweden additionally had a first-half penalty declare for a handball by Javier Hernandez denied regardless of going to a VAR evaluate, however in the long run it mattered little after their three second-half objectives.

Ludwig Augustinsson fired Sweden forward 5 minutes after the break when a Viktor Claesson mis-hit inadvertently discovered him free on the far put up, earlier than Andreas Granqvist smashed residence a penalty 12 minutes later following Hector Moreno’s journey on Marcus Berg.

Mexico – who went shut via a curling Carlos Vela effort within the first half – pressed laborious for a reply however had been punished once more when Edson Alvarez clumsily turned an tried clearance previous his personal keeper.

Juan Carlos Osorio’s aspect, so good of their earlier two wins over Germany and South Korea, ought to have had a purpose to indicate from their underwhelming efficiency however Vela’s late header was dismal.

The groups will discover out who they play within the subsequent spherical later this night, after the ultimate spherical of matches in Group E.

Because it stands Sweden would face Switzerland, whereas Mexico, who’ve been knocked out within the final 16 of each World Cup since 1994, will most probably play Brazil.

Mexico’s late worries

Javier Hernandez had solely 30 touches in opposition to Sweden, the fewest by a Mexico participant

With the sport fading into damage time and Sweden sure of victory, Mexican followers started to assume what was earlier than the sport unthinkable – attainable elimination.

At that stage, Germany had been nonetheless drawing 0-Zero with South Korea, and a late purpose for Joachim Low’s aspect would have moved them into second place on purpose distinction.

So the 2 late objectives for South Korea – the second got here after the ultimate whistle had been blown in Ekaterinburg – had been greeted with celebration and aid on the finish of a Mexico efficiency that had little to cheer about.

This was the primary time in Colombian Osario’s 51 matches accountable for the staff that he made no modifications from their earlier match.

However his staff had been utterly unrecognisable from the 2-1 victory over South Korea that adopted that spectacular opening 1-Zero win in opposition to Germany.

They discovered it far harder in opposition to Sweden, who had been properly organised and aggressive all around the pitch.

It now appears that Osario – criticised up to now for an excessive amount of tinkering – will face questions of a distinct kind, simply when he thought he had discovered his greatest XI.

Sweden had been extremely spectacular in opposition to a staff that had been fancied to be a hazard within the knockout part

Sweden flip issues round

Sweden’s merciless last-minute defeat by Germany within the second spherical of matches seemed to have severely diminished their possibilities of reaching the knockout stage.

However they emphatically put that consequence behind them.

Earlier than Toni Kroos’ 95th-minute purpose for Germany, that they had carried out a lot in the identical method as they did right here; troublesome to interrupt down, harmful on the counter and combative at each alternative.

The one distinction was that they had been much more medical in opposition to Mexico when probabilities offered themselves and their three second-half objectives left their opponents reeling.

Competing on the event for the primary time since 2006, it is going to be intriguing to see how far they’ll go.

Evaluation – The perfect World Cup in latest reminiscence

Former England and Arsenal defender Matt Upson: It was a really troublesome match-up for Mexico by way of model. From the primary minute, Sweden’s intent was so clear, the set-pieces, how bodily and organised they had been. They totally deserved to win the sport 3-0.

Former Everton midfielder Leon Osman: I do not assume anybody noticed Sweden profitable by three objectives. I am unable to inform you how a lot I’m having fun with this World Cup, the drama of it, the unpredictability. The change in momentum and scorelines is improbable. It is most likely the perfect World Cup I can bear in mind.

Man of the match – Andreas Granqvist

Sweden’s captain was strong in defence and decisive from the penalty spot

The quickest World Cup reserving – the important thing stats

Sweden have now reached the final 16 of the World Cup on every of the final 4 events through which they’ve certified for the event.

This was Sweden’s greatest win in a World Cup match since they defeated Bulgaria 4-Zero in 1994 within the third-place play-off match.

Mexico have reached the final 16 in every of the final eight World Cup tournaments they’ve taken half in.

Andreas Granqvist is the primary Swede to attain two or extra objectives in a single World Cup event since Henrik Larsson in 2002 (three objectives).

This was Mexico’s worst defeat on the World Cup since they had been crushed 6-Zero by Germany in 1978.

Ludwig Augustinsson’s opener was the primary purpose he has scored for Sweden’s senior staff… with what was his first shot at this event.

Mexico’s Jesus Gallardo was proven a yellow card after simply 15 seconds on this sport – the quickest anybody has ever been booked within the World Cup.

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#Barcelona

#Football

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junker-town · 5 years

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Players throwing tantrums during substitutions is one of soccer’s greatest joys

Photo by Shaun Clark/Getty Images

Petulant soccer players are always funny.

After scoring LAFC’s third goal against the Los Angeles Galaxy, Carlos Vela was substituted by manager Bob Bradley. When Vela looked over from the field and saw his number on the substitution board, he shook his head, scrunched up his face, ripped off his captain’s armband, and threw it in disgust before walking off.

five tries. zero wins. pic.twitter.com/P5BdHbkKNy

— LA Galaxy (@LAGalaxy) August 26, 2019

With his display of anger, Vela went against convention of the substitution procedure, that of placid acceptance, and joined the long history of players unafraid to risk the ire of fans and managers with their public petulance. This is one of the great traditions in soccer.

I enjoy the theatricality of the begrudging substitution. The shaking of the head when the player sees their number on the board. The way they look at their teammates to see if their incredulity is justified. The slow walk off the field with their heads down. The ripping off of the armband, and refusing to shake the manager’s hand.

Sometimes a bottle gets kicked, or a seat if the player is truly enraged. A shirt gets thrown.

youtube

In Manchester City’s game against Tottenham Spurs earlier this month, Sergio Aguero was substituted after scoring to put City up 2-1. He walked off the field angrily, then got into a verbal altercation with Pep Guardiola while seated on the bench. Aguero was the center of a similar incident two years prior — Spurs again — when he was subbed out of an eventual 4-1 victory. He reacted then by throwing his gloves on the floor.

The true comedy of a petulant substitution is that the players almost always walk off the field, regardless of their anger. They throw their tantrums, yet fulfill the wishes of the manager. The display is like watching a child complain about being asked to do chores. They don’t outright refuse, but they make sure to let their superior know that they’re not happy with what they’re being asked to do, if only to exercise some bit of power.

Substitutions illustrate where power truly lies in the player-manager relationship. Though the laws of the game don’t state that a player has to obey their manager, the problems that a player would face if they refused to come off the field — punishment by the club, being benched, the anger of the fans, demonization by the press — are so great that refusal is not a legitimate option. A player can do it, but only if they want to jeopardize their career and reputation.

But sometimes players do refuse to be substituted, and it leads to wonderful tragicomedy.

The most famous recent incident occurred in last season’s Carabao Cup final, when Chelsea goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga refused to be substituted in extra time. Kepa had been hurt earlier in the game, and Maurizio Sarri wanted to bring on reserve goalkeeper Willy Caballero for penalties.

Kepa waved off his manager. His teammates tried to talk to him. The manager threw a tantrum. Fans whistled at him. Yet, Kepa stayed on the field.

In the subsequent penalty shootout, Chelsea lost and Kepa was particularly at fault for failing to save a weak Aguero penalty. He was also punished by the club afterwards for undermining the role of his manager. That’s the trouble with refusing to come off the field, the player is then put under intense pressure to justify their behavior. Anything short of a heroic performance will see the player derided as a selfish saboteur.

Most players adhere to convention when being substituted. They may whine, moan, huff and puff, but they walk off still. Even in anger, they know that it’s better to keep a fragile peace with club, manager, and fans, than to risk what might happen if they stay put.

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ladyarse · 5 years

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Video: Carlos Vela scores hat-trick and breaks all-time MLS goalscoring record

Carlos Vela won the Golden Boot and broke the MLS record for goals in a single regular season on Sunday, as LAFC’s league campaign drew to a close.

Carlos Vela lifting the Supporters’ Shield via MLSSoccer.com

Vela had been competing with Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Josef Martinez for the Golden Boot award, though he’d always had a healthy lead over them on the top of the charts.

The former Gunner…

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#Carlos Vela #LAFC

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footballnewspapers · 5 years

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3 teams best prepared to rival LAFC

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LOS ANGELES, CA – MARCH 3: Carlos Vela #10 of Los Angeles FC during Los Angeles FC’s MLS match against Sporting Kansas City at the Banc of California Stadium on March 3, 2019 in Los Angeles, California. Los Angeles FC won the match 2-1 (Photo by Shaun Clark/Getty Images)

At the summer international break, Los Angeles FC are undoubtedly the best team in MLS. But who is best to rival them…

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#prepared #rival #teams

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investmart007 · 6 years

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MOSCOW | The Latest: Lozano gives Mexico 1-0 halftime lead v Germany

New Post has been published on https://is.gd/UR53ro

MOSCOW | The Latest: Lozano gives Mexico 1-0 halftime lead v Germany

MOSCOW (AP) — The Latest on Sunday at the World Cup (all times local): 6:55 p.m.

Mexican fans have chanted a homophobic slur at Germany goalkeeper Manuel Neuer during the World Cup game in Moscow.

FIFA has repeatedly fined the Mexican football federation over the chant. It rang out at Moscow’s Luzhniki stadium in the 24th minute of Mexico’s game against Germany on Sunday with the score at 0-0.

Fans in Mexico use the chant to insult opposing goalkeepers as they take a goal kick. Widely considered a slur, some argue there is no discriminatory intent.

The Court of Arbitration for Sport canceled two fines against Mexico in November, ruling the chant was “insulting” but not meant to offend, though it left other fines in force. ___ 6:45 p.m.

Germany is in an unfamiliar position for a World Cup opener — trailing at halftime.

Hirving Lozano scored from 14 yards out in the 35th minute to give Mexico a 1-0 lead in Moscow. He took a pass from Javier Hernandez and wrong-footed Mesut Ozil to score his eighth international goal.

Both sides put pressure on the goalkeepers in a high-energy first half at Luzhniki Stadium. Germany had five shots on goal to Mexico’s four. German goalkeeper Manuel Neuer stopped a header just short of the goal line.

Germany has won its last seven World Cup openers, outscoring opponents 20-2 in its last four. ____ 6:40 p.m.

Hirving Lozano has wrong-footed Germany’s Mesut Ozil and scored from about 14 yards out to give Mexico a 1-0 lead over the defending World Cup champions.

Lozano took a pass from Javier Hernandez and got around Ozil and had a clear path to the net in the 35th minute. It was his eighth international goal.

Both teams had several chances before the opening goal. German goalkeeper Manuel Neuer saved a header, and Germany later had two shots on goal in a 3-minute span.

Germany trailed only once in the last World Cup, 2-1 to Ghana, and has outscored opponents 20-2 in its past four World Cup openers. ___ 6:10 p.m.

Panama coach Hernan Dario Gomez is not in the business of sugarcoating the truth ahead of his team’s historic World Cup debut.

He admits Panama has trouble scoring and says it will need a good day to have any chance against Belgium on Monday.

The blunt and honest Gomez doesn’t even hide his starting lineup, the normal procedure for coaches these days — even those trying to keep expectations minimal.

Asked if Panama could match Iceland’s draw with Argentina, he didn’t bother picking the right words. He says this Argentina “is not at the same level as Belgium right now.”

— AP Sports Writer Tim Booth reported from Sochi. ___ 5:50 p.m.

Belgium will keep defender Vincent Kompany on the 23-man roster for the World Cup even though it’s likely to be later in the group stage before the veteran sees the field.

Coach Roberto Martinez said Sunday he would not be making any roster changes. Kompany suffered a groin injury in a friendly against Portugal earlier this month and the Red Devils added Laurent Ciman to their camp as a precaution. Ciman was sent back to Brussels on Saturday to await final word on Kompany’s status.

Martinez says there is a stronger chance now of Kompany now appearing in the group stage and that his experience is important to have around the squad. ___ 5:17 p.m.

Hirving Lozano, Carlos Vela and Javier “Chicharito” Hernandez will lead Mexico’s attack in its opening World Cup game against Germany.

There’s also a place in the starting lineup for midfielder Jesus Gallardo, while brothers Jonathan and Giovani dos Santos of the LA Galaxy are both on the bench.

Mexico lineup: Guillermo Ochoa, Hugo Ayala, Carlos Salcedo, Miguel Layun, Carlos Vela, Javier Hernandez, Hector Moreno, Hector Herrera, Andres Guardado, Hirving Lozano, Jesus Gallardo. ___ 5:09 p.m.

Germany is starting with Mesut Ozil in midfield for its World Cup opener against Mexico, while Marco Reus is on the bench.

Ozil’s start follows weeks of debate in Germany over his decision to pose for a photo with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan along with teammate Ilkay Gundogan. Some German politicians and media questioned whether the players, who are of Turkish heritage, were sufficiently committed to Germany.

Manuel Neuer starts in goal despite missing most of the club season with a foot fracture. Marvin Plattenhardt is in at left back; German media reported Jonas Hector has an illness.

Germany: Manuel Neuer, Marvin Plattenhardt, Mats Hummels, Sami Khedira, Julian Draxler, Toni Kroos, Timo Werner, Mesut Ozil, Thomas Mueller, Jerome Boateng, Joshua Kimmich. ___ 4:55 p.m.

Aleksandar Kolarov’s curling free kick in the 56th minute has helped Serbia to a 1-0 win over Costa Rica in its World Cup opener.

Serbia, which missed out on the 2014 World Cup, had the early advantage in a tough group in Russia that includes five-time champion Brazil and Switzerland, who were set to play later Sunday in Rostov-on-Don.

After a scoreless first half, Costa Rica goalkeeper Keylor Navas withstood a barrage of Serbian challenges to open the second with the boisterous Costa Rican fans cheering him on at Samara Arena.

But after David Guzman was handed a yellow card, Kolarov curled the free kick over the wall and Navas, who plays for Real Madrid, was not able to reach it. ____ 4:35 p.m.

South Korea coach Shin Tae-yong has warned his players about the new replay system being used for the first time in the World Cup.

He’s telling them that the video assistant referee can’t be tricked.

Shin says “the players are aware of this. We are training the players.

There are 32 cameras that are targeting the pitch. So you might be able to fool the referee, but you cannot fool the cameras. The players know this, and that is something we have emphasized.”

Shin is famous for using some trickery in his tactics. But he says his players have been schooled about the new system, which will detect a dive or a faked contact with another player.

He says “the VAR has really come to the forefront and it’s become an important part of the game.” ___ 4:15 p.m.

Captain Aleksandar Kolarov has given Serbia a 1-0 lead against Costa Rica. His free kick curled over the wall and diving Costa Rica goalkeeper Keylor Navas wasn’t able to reach it before it sailed into the upper right corner in the 56th minute. The free kick came after a yellow card on Costa Rica’s David Guzman. ___ 3:48 p.m.

The opening half between Costa Rica and Serbia was back and forth, right from the start: Aleksandar Mitrovic’s header was off in the opening minute and moments later Marco Urena’s angled shot for Costa Rica was saved in the left corner by Vladimir Stojkovic.

Following a corner kick, David Guzman popped the ball to Giancarlo Gonzalez but his header sailed over the net in the 12th minute.

Branislav Ivanovic’s cross was knocked out of the box by Costa Rica goalkeeper Keylor Navas three minutes later.

Sergej Milinkovic-Savic challenged Navas in the 27th from just outside the box, but Navas fell on the ball.

Urena’s right-foot strike from outside the box in the 39th went over the bar. A short time later Calvo’s chance was wide, and Stojkovic gestured for his side to calm down.

Milinkovic-Savic’s bicycle kick from in front of goal was ruled offside in the 42nd. ___ 3:30 p.m.

Mexico fans are agreeing among themselves not to chant what is considered a homophobic slur at the World Cup in Russia to avoid FIFA sanctions.

Instead of the chant, Mexicans plan to sing songs related to a couple of recent scandals in their country at Sunday’s Group F match against Germany.

Mexico’s Football Federation has been fined previously for the chant that fans shout out in unison every time the opposing goalkeeper kicks the ball. Despite campaigns to try to stop it, the chant has continued in the Estadio Azteca in Mexico when the national team plays there.

At last year’s Confederations Cup in Russia amid FIFA threats to suspend a match, El Tri fans practically stopped chanting in the Russian stadium. For the World Cup, fans don’t plan to keep quiet like last year, but instead modify the chants. ____ 3:15 p.m.

Sweden coach Janne Andersson says one of his staff got into a closed South Korea training session and was asked to leave, leading to a squabble between the teams over spying ahead of their World Cup game on Monday.

Andersson says the staffer, who is entrusted with scouting the opposition, thought the practice session at South Korea’s pre-World Cup training camp in Austria was open. Andersson says the coach left when asked and “watched from more of a distance.”

The incident has created a frosty atmosphere between the teams ahead of their game in Nizhny Novgorod.

Andersson says his team analyzes all opponents and the incident has been overblown, but adds “it’s very important that we show respect for opponents … If it has been perceived in another way, we apologize.” ___ 2:40 p.m.

Veteran defender Branislav Ivanovic is set to become Serbia’s most capped international player when he starts against Costa Rica in the World Cup. It will be his 104th international appearance and Serbia’s first at the World Cup in eight years.

The former Chelsea star surpassed Dejan Stankovic, known as “Deki,” who played 103 games for the national team from 1998-2013, through three different eras: Yugoslavia, Serbia-Montenegro and finally Serbia.

Johan Venegas, Francisco Calvo and David Guzman will be making their World Cup debuts for Costa Rica. The rest of the Costa Rica starting lineup was involved in Brazil in 2014, when the team lost a quarterfinal match to Netherlands on penalties.

Lineups:

Costa Rica: Keylor Navas, Johnny Acosta, Giancarlo Gonzalez, Celso Borges, Oscar Duarte, Bryan Ruiz, Johan Venegas, Francisco Calvo, Cristian Gamboa, David Guzman, Marcos Urena.

Serbia: Vladimir Stojkovic, Dusko Tosic, Luka Milivojevic, Branislav Ivanovic, Aleksandar Mitrovic, Dusan Tadic, Aleksandar Kolarov, Nikola Molenkovic, Sergej Milinkovic-Savic, Nemanja Matic, Adem Ljajic. ____ 2:20 p.m.

Midfielder Alan Dzagoev has ruled himself out of Russia’s two remaining World Cup group games because of injury.

Dzagoev hurt his left hamstring during Russia’s opening 5-0 win over Saudi Arabia and tells Russia’s RIA Novosti news agency he’s in pain when walking and will only resume light training Monday.

Dzagoev says “there’s nothing good about the biggest tournament going on without you. I hope I can still play. I hope to God that we make the knockout stages and maybe I’ll be able to play.”

Dzagoev has played 58 times for Russia and was expected to be a key player for the host nation at the World Cup. ___ 12:45 p.m.

Diego Maradona has given his version of an exchange with an Asian fan that witnesses perceived as racist.

British television staff working in Spartak Stadium in Moscow during Argentina’s 1-1 draw with Iceland on Saturday reported seeing Maradona respond to South Korea fans calling his name.

On Twitter, BBC presenter Jacqui Oatley posted that Maradona “obliged with a smile, kiss and wave. Then pulled his eyes to the side in a clearly racist gesture.”

In a Facebook message early Sunday, the Argentina great says he saw “an Asian boy wearing an Argentina T-shirt.”

He adds: “I, from afar, tried to tell them how nice it seemed to me that even the Asians cheer for us. And that’s all, guys, come on.”

FIFA statutes prohibit acts of discrimination by teams, officials and fans at games it organizes.

In a response to The Associated Press, FIFA refers to its anti-discrimination rules without commenting on the incident.

Maradona also apologizes for smoking a cigar in the VIP seats, despite a FIFA ban on smoking at World Cup stadiums. ___ 12:20 p.m.

Moscow police are investigating a taxi crash that injured eight people, including two Mexican World Cup fans, when the driver plowed into pedestrians on a sidewalk near Red Square.

Video circulating on Russian social media and some news websites showed the taxi veering onto the sidewalk Saturday and striking pedestrians. The source of the video was unclear.

City police released a video Sunday of an interrogation session with a man identified as the Kyrgyz taxi driver, in which he says he briefly fell asleep at the wheel in the crash and accidentally accelerated. It was unclear whether the man spoke under duress.

The man says he hadn’t slept in 20 hours, and ran away after the accident because he was afraid that angry bystanders would kill him. He was later detained.

Moscow police would not comment Sunday on whether the crash would affect security measures for the World Cup, which is being held in 11 Russian cities over the next month. Among the security concerns has been the possible use of vehicles as weapons.

The Mexican Embassy told The Associated Press that the two injured female fans met with embassy representatives and were not hospitalized. The Mexican national soccer teams plays against Germany on Sunday in Moscow.

By Associated Press

#against Mexico #discriminatory intent #goalkeeper Manuel Neuer #Mexican football #Moscow #TodayNews

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Mexico squad: 'El Tri' looks to break World Cup jinx with veteran Hernandez

Mexico, together with Brazil and Germany, are the only teams surviving the group stage at the last six FIFA World Cups. But the CONCACAF giants haven’t managed to make it past the round of 16. It’s as if Mexico’s fourth match at the World Cup is jinxed.

A traditional powerhouse, Mexico played France in the opener of the first World Cup in Uruguay in 1930. Russia 2018 will be Mexico’s 16th World Cup, and their seventh consecutive appearance, reports Xinhua news agency.

Their best performances came in 1970 and 1986, when they advanced to the quarter-finals as hosts. This summer in Russia, Mexico will undoubtedly go all out to snap their frustrating record.

At the 2014 World Cup, Mexico finished second in a tough group featuring hosts Brazil, Croatia and Cameroon, only conceding the top spot to Brazil on goal difference.

Their play concluded with a 2-1 defeat to the Netherlands in the last 16 round.

Road to World Cup: Mexico booked a spot in Russia 2018 with a 1-0 win over Panama, securing qualification with three matches remaining. They lost just once in their 16 qualifiers. Mexico are traditionally the strongest team in the CONCACAF region and again qualified comfortably. They have reached the second round at the last six tournaments without once going further.

World Cup 2018 Group: Mexico have been drawn in Group F with defending champions Germany, Sweden and South Korea. It is not an easy group.

Coach: Juan Carlos Osorio, a Colombian, is a tactician who is good at making detailed plans. He is also an experienced manager capable of improving the atmosphere in the locker room. Since he took the reins in 2015, Mexico have risen from 18th to 15th in the FIFA rankings. “We have a solid group of players with experience in Europe’s biggest leagues. If Raul, Javier and Hirving are on top of their game, then we can score against anyone,” Osorio said.

Squad: Mexico’s attacking power came mainly from their all-time top scorer Javier Hernandez. Extremely quick and agile, Hernandez, who has played for Manchester United, Real Madrid and Bayer Leverkusen, scored many goals from close range.

His dribbling skill, pace, and ability to find space inside the box are all world class. His minutes-per-goal ratio during his time with Manchester United is still among the most prolific in the history of the English Premier League.

German legend Rudi Voller praised Hernandez’s positioning in front of goal, saying: “He certainly doesn’t win every tackle but he has an incredible sense of where the ball will end up.”

Javier Hernandez. (Photo: Shuttershock)

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Now playing for West Ham United, the 30-year-old is still sharp and confident.

Hernandez will likely line up with Hirving Lozano, a 23-year-old rising star who plays for PSV Eindhoven. Lozano may well be the one to watch in Russia 2018.

He enjoyed a scintillating 2017, winning the CONCACAF Champions League with Pachuca, collecting the Golden Boot and also the Best Young Player award. This earned him a move to PSV where he’s hit the ground running. He also scored the only goal in the victory against Panama that secured Mexico’s place in Russia.

As a right-footed left winger, Lozano has an eye for goals and fierce shots. If he continues to impress and can show what he’s worth at the World Cup, PSV might find trouble to hold him on.

Besides Hernandez and Lozano, Mexico also have Miguel Layun (Sevilla), Raul Jimenez (Benfica) and Diego Reyes (Porto). Mexico veteran Rafael Marquez is set for his fifth appearance at a World Cup after being named in the final 23-man squad.

For the first time in their history, Mexico will head to a World Cup with half of their squad playing in Europe.

ALSO READ: England World Cup squad: Southgate’s 23 Lions who made the cut for Russia

World Cup dream: “We want to be world champions and we don’t want to put any limits on ourselves. Some people complain that we’re not being realistic, but the reality is that if you don’t dream and strive for more, then you’re the one who has it all wrong,” Hernandez said on his expectation from the World Cup.

Even if Mexico advance as second-placed finishers, they will most likely meet Brazil in the next round. So, is it too much for them to life the world cup or can they go all the way to the finals.

The 23-man Mexico squad

Goalkeepers: Jose Corona, Alfredo Talavera, Guillermo Ochoa

Defenders: Hugo Ayala, Carlos Salcedo, Marquez Rafael, Diego Reyes, Hector Moreno, Herrera Hector, Alvarez Edson

Midfielders: Dos Santos Jonathan, Layum Miguel, Dos Santos Giovani, Corona Jesus, Guardado Andres, Aquino Javier, Gallardo Jesus

Forwards: Fabian Marco, Raul Jimenez, Carlos Vela, Javier Hernandez, Peralta Oribe, Lozano Hirving

(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)

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