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Francisco Torres played a decent 45 minutes against Universidad de Chile losing 1-0. Torres had a few good passes and shot from long range but failed to make a serious impact as Pachuca failed to gain a result. Gringo Torres recently chose the USA as his national team after El Tri had failed to call him for the Olympics and World Cup qualifiers. After playing in the 2008 FIFA Club World Cup and 2009 Interliga, Torres hopes that his international resume will allow him to receive an invitation to attend the USA vs Mexico camp to challenge for playing time.  Since he has been seeing regular playing time, this factor could benefit Torres because several of the European based players are riding the bench at their clubs.

 

In the latest soccer news, Radio Shack cancels controversial Vodoo Doll promotion. The associated press reported Radio Shack's statement confirming that "it wishes the very best of luck to Mexico, the U.S. and all teams in the final round of regional qualifying for next year's tournament".

 

The Associated Press also cited that "the Mexican sports daily Record had published an ad for the campaign on Tuesday, printing coupons for fans to clip and redeem at their local Radio Shack store for a voodoo-doll likeness of a U.S. player. An illustration showed a pair of scissors slicing off the leg of a doll in a U.S. jersey; the doll grimaced in pain with its arms covered in bruises, as stuffing leaked from its No. 10 jersey, stuck with pushpins.

 

The ad went on to say: Record said it hoped young people would gather around televisions for the match and "apply punishments to our rivals," giving Mexico an edge to end a decade of win less play versus the Americans on U.S. soil. "Help end the losing streak so Mexico advances," the ad read.

 

The Record was surprised that Radio Shack withdrew from the promotion. The Record had produced 10,000 dolls to be distributed throughout North America, and it appears that other businesses are interested in assuming the promotions.

 

Do you think Torres will be called up for the Mexico game?  Do you have your own voodoo doll of your arch rival under bed? It's ok to tell us.....you are in a safe place...LOL What are your thoughts?

 

Included are web logs that reference Americans Abroad: Francisco Torres plays first half in Pachuca loss.

 

In the Latest Soccer News, David Beckham, England International and AC Milan midfielder, scored his second goal and played 71minutes for the Italian super club. In the 31st minute, Pato drew a foul just outside the left penalty box. This foul setup the set piece which would lead to his second goal. Was the set piece composed of a special type of mysterious magic which made Harry Potter famous?  Perhaps, David Beckham put some extra English on the ball (no pun intended) directing it acutely near corner post. After scoring his second goal four days after his first goal, David Beckham has voiced his desire to stay at AC Milan and forgo his 2009 season with MLS.

 

This soccer video features Beckham's second goal for AC Milan.

 

 

Earlier this week, David Beckham stated that “I can’t say what will happen. Even if my contract says that I’ll be here until March. We’ll have to see.”  It appears that David is ready to make a deal with Major League Soccer and LA Galaxy so that he can continue to feature for AC Milan which would benefit his status with English national team coach Fabio Capello.

 

Does this goal indicate the inevitable?  Are you happy for DB?  Will he be able to make the England squad and play at a high level in South Africa 2010? 

 

Included are web logs that reference Latest Soccer News David Beckham scores second goal

 

 

 

Landon Donovan made his official Bundesliga appearance for Bayern Munich on Tues with a convincing 5-1 win against VFB Stuttgart. Landon Donovan entered and replaced forward and Italian international Luca Toni in the 67th minute.  After just entering the game, Landon Donovan received a Ribery pass sending it just wide post almost adding a sixth goal for Bayern Munich. Landon Donovanshould have the opportunity to display his talent on Friday January, 30th as Bayern Munich will face Hamburg SV.

 

This soccer video has the Bayern Munich vs Stuttgart highlights.

 

 

Fulham FC and Clint Dempsey played an important game against Sunderland with only five points separating 10th place to relegation status. Fulham FC has allowed the fourth least amount of goals with 18 goals in the Barclay's Premier League. Manchester United, Chelsea, and Liverpool have only allowed 10, 13, and 14 goals respectively. With such an impressive defense, Fulham FC was unable to prevent Sunderland from scoring conceding a goal in the 55th minute. Kenwye Jones retrieved a deflected shot and slid it into the back of the net. After scoring the goal, Jones really impressed with his celebratory back flip which was probably inspired by the signing of his new contract.

 

Clint Dempsey featured in the midfield at left wing for a full 90 minutes. His performance was average and plays more naturaly at a withdrawn striker or attacking midfielder. Fulham's strategy to play direct stunted its' offensive build-up during the game and rarely got the ball in dangerous positions. Clint Dempsey positioned himself centrally allowing Konchesky to overlap on the flanks. Although Dempsey tallied four shots, his game lacked timing, crisp passing, and tenacious attacking flair. His workrate defensively was great and has made a huge improvement since he first arrived at Craven Cottage.

 

The Fulham squad works hard for each other giving the extra defensively, but with the departue of Bullard, Fulham lacks any offensive possession and buildup prefering to play direct. The central midfield pairing of Etuhu and Murphy were horrible turning over the ball on more than several occasions. If Coach Roy Hodgson is listening out there, it would be recomended to play Dempsey at withdrawn forward or play CAM. Fulham's offense looks more potent with Dempsey playing centrally, holding possession, and distributing to on-running players. If Hodgson does not make a move in the transfer market, Fulham could be fighting for their relegation lives again at the end of the season.

 

Coach Roy Hodgson did express his thought after the game stating " Our attacking play was good but the first goal proved to be decisive. I don"t have any complaints about the result but I do think the performance perhaps merited a bit more and on another day would have got us something more from the game. We haven't lost that many but we've drawn a lot away from home. It took us a long time to win away from home last season and then we won three on the bounce.

 

Hodgson also added that "the players gave their all and I can't have too many complaints, but we lost and when you lose it's difficult to be happy and positive because the bitter taste of defeat is there."

 

I do agree that the team gave its' all, but I have to disagree with the comment referring to their attacking play as being good. Since their defense is playing well and conceding only 18 goals this season, it would make sense for them to bolster their offensive arsenal because games become more difficult from March to May.  The relegation battle will become intense with Barclay's season concluding. 

 

What do you think of Landon Donovan's Bayern Munich performances? Do you think Clint Dempsey has been one of the best players for Fulham this year? Are you going to watch the Bayern game on Friday?  Let us know what you think?

 

Included are web logs that reference Americans Abroad: Bayern Munich's Landon Donovan and Fulham's Clint Dempsey play on Tuesday.

 

 

 

In latest soccer news, Ives Galarcep, undisputed champion of 2008 soccer blog award winning soccerbyives.net  and ESPN columnist, reported that Mexico is resorting to vodoo dolls" in the likeness of a US National team player" in order to defeat the red, white, and blue. Wow, Mexican fans must really be feeling the pressure after their inconsistent play in group play of the CONCACAF qualifiers. With several Mexican players such as Marquez, Guardado, Vela, and Pardo missing the game due to injury or suspension, Mexico will need as much assistance as possible, but vodoo dolls are just bad karma and are not the solution.

 

Soccer by Ives is reporting that Felix Garcia, U-20 International and former PDL Laredo Heat forward, signed with Houston Dynamo as a Generation Adidas member. Felix Garcia has demonstrated his speed and technique both as a youth international and PDL member. Garcia will be joined with U-20 teammate Daniel Cruz a Generation Adidas member. The Houston Dynamo continues to bolster their roster despite losing players such as DeRosario and Ianni. Felix Garcia is only 18 years old and will benefit from a club like Houston that will not need him to perform immediately allowing him to develop naturally over time.

 

 

These soccer videos illustrate a glimpse of Felix Garcia's abilty.

 

 

 

 

 

 Highlights from USA VS Mexico U-20 in Laredo, Texas.

 

 

Will Felix Garcia earn playing time this season or will he only play in tournaments and friendlies? Was the acquisition a good move for Houston Dynamo? Tomorrow's post will include details on Clint Dempsey and Landon Donovan's performances. 

 
Included are links to blogs that discuss Latest Soccer news: Mexico resorts to Vodoo Dolls and Felix Garcia signs with Dynamo. Mexico Soccer

 

 

After drawing a penalty in the Juventus vs AS Monaco friendly with several nifty moves, Freddy Adu has spent this season at AS Monaco in relative Futbol obscurity failing to secure significant playing time. In the Juventus friendly, Adu performed well drawing a penalty, distributing well, playing just over 60 minutes, and impressing Juventus coach Claudio Raniera.  Since the Juventus game, Adu has yet to see playing time and voices his frustration during his Monaco experiences in this blog.

 

Although lacking quality playing time but sounding very upbeat, Freddy Adu sounded excited about the Monaco's recent win against Nice stating "the curse has been lifted ! Last night we beat Nice at home for the first time since 1996 ! The team needed a good performance desperately, and we did just that. The guys looked the best I have seen them look this year maybe. It was a great game and really important for our morale."

 

In addition, Adu noted that  "we have struggled as of late in the championship, so it was so good to continue our run in the Cup. Although I didn’t play, I was thrilled for everyone. It was a great night to be a part of. I am most happy for the fans. They deserved the win after 13 years without a home win against our Riviera rivals.

 

Thanks to modern inventions such as Sling Box and DVRs, Freddy was able to watch the USA defeat Sweden 3-2 in Carson California. Adu stated that he enjoyed watching the game and was happy that coach Bradley allowed him to focus on club duties. Adu wrote that "the US national team also got a great result this weekend against Sweden. We won 3-2. Coach Bob Bradley let me stay in Monaco to focus on my club, so I watched from home. They played great ! It will give us a lot of confidence heading into our first game in the hexagonal against our CONCACAF rivals, Mexico, in February. I am working hard to get back on the field for the Red and White, and I hope this weekend I will able to help keep the momentum from the weekend going "! Allez Monaco !

 

David Mosse of ESPN's soccernet blog recently wrote an article describing Adu's lack of playing time. He states that "Freddy Adu has never been the most sympathetic of figures, but for the first time in his career, I must confess to feeling a bit sorry for his predicament. Back in July, I expressed doubts about the move to Monaco, but even I didn't think the situation would turn out so poorly.

 

It is unfortunate to see Adu's development stunted with a lack of playing time. Freddy Adu possesses charisma and is one of the fan favorites for US Men's National Team fans. After meeting him several times, Adu always seems energetic, willing to sign autographs, sincere when talking with fans, and modest considering he is one of the most highly promoted US soccer players. I must admit that I have my 2006 US Home Jersey signed by Freddy Adu hanging in my closet. LOL!!!

 

On a personal note, I know what it means to suffer playing time on my club team that is comprised of several former Honduran professionals and can be frustrating not being able to earn a full 45-90 minutes. During the last game, we played against a very good team tha tallied a 5-0 score at halftime, and my teammates seemed frustrated and dejected. I gave everyone a pat on the back and told them to lift their heads up (levanta la cabeza). Although we ended up losing 6-4, our team came out determined and scored four goals dominating the whole second half, This first half beating showed that it does not matter how you start but how you finish. Freddy's career just commenced and holds a bright future. All US fans hope that you continue to develop and earn playing time with AS Monaco, and wherever you play next season.  In the spirit of being thankful for what we have and not what we don't have, thanks Freddy! for your recent National team accomplishments with the  U-20, Olympic U-23, and Men's National team. Good Luck and remember to keep your head up. Levanta la cabeza!

 

Included are web logs that reference Ou etre tu Freddy? Where are you Freddy Adu?

 

After the recent resigning of Bobby Boswell to Houston Dynamo, the Dynamo traded central defender Patrick Ianni to the Seattle Sounders for a 2010 conditional draft pick. This trade seems to benefit both parties solidifying roster depth for the Sounders and clearing space for an already loaded Houston Dynamo team. Houston Dynamo possess roster depth at central defense with Eddie Robinson, Bobby Boswell, Julius James, Craig Waibel, and Geoff Cameron has played centrally in emergencies.

 

Although Bobby Boswell did not sign with Turkish side Antalyaspor, a positive can be drawn from this trial. According to Greg Seltzer of No Short Corners, Boswell did impress coach Mehmet Özdilek stating the reason for not acquiring free agent Boswell:

 

"I have now learned why Antalyaspor backed away from out-of-contract Houston defender Bobby Boswell: they couldn't clear a foreign player space for him (Turkish sides are allowed to dress as many as eight foreign players, with no more than six of them starters and and no more than two subs). In addition, it seems coach Mehmet Özdilek would generally prefer to use those slots on attackers, but club spokesman Servet Çavuşoglu told me they may well ring Bobby up again. Apparently, he made a very good impression during his visit."
The Seattle Sounders continue to solidfy its' defensive roster with Pattrick Ianni, Taylor Graham, Tyson Wahl, James Riley, and Jeff Parke. In the 2009 Major League Soccer Superdraft, the Sounders bolstered their defensive depth with the selections of Evan Brown (Wake Forest) and Jared Karkas (Azusa Pacific) who are both attacking wing backs that play at the right and left back position respectively.

 

According to Greg Seltzer at No Short Corners, General Manager Mo Johnston is looking to bring in upcoming and dynamic Trinidadians Keon Daniel(United Petrotin/T&T) and Gregory Richardson(Joe Public/Guyana. If you watched the New England Revolution play  Joe Public in the CONCACAF Champions League, you will remember the hat trick that Richardson displayed against the lifeless Revs who lost 4-0. Originally, the Columbus Crew were really high on Richardson, but it appears that Trader Mo is looking to bolster an already loaded midfield and forward depth chart. Jones and Richardson could provide the additional explosiveness and passing options for DeRosario. It will be interesting to see if these acquisitions take place.

 

This soccer video is a little reminder of Richardson vs NE Revs.

 

 

In a Soccer 365 exclusive, Eric Hort reflects on his decision to sign with Israel's super club Maccabi Tel Aviv who has his services until 2009/2010 season. Hort, a recent member of the Chicago Fire Reserve squad, expressed his feelings on the move stating that "I am very excited to join Maccabi Tel Aviv. It's a very prestigious club In Israel and well known club around the world, I couldn't be happier." In addition Hort commented how his former club Sparta Prague gave him an opportunity to introduce him to Maccabi Tel Aviv. Hort stated that "I was connected with Maccabi through an agent who saw me while I was playing in AC Sparta Praha, and kept an eye on me over the years. Hort added that "the manager, as well as the staff, have been very happy with my performance over the past month-and-a-half. All is positive, I just have to keep working hard and fight for my position as everyone else does."

 

Erik Hort has displayed his versatility playing in several positions and stated that "over the past month I have been positioned at both (center back and right back), as well as center midfield. All is up for grabs, but mainly I have been used in the friendly games as an attacking right back." It is fortunate that some of the MLS fringe and reserve players have had the chance to go to other leagues such as USL and Europe, but Hort is probably in the minority not the majority. Good luck to all those who brave the unexpected and head to Europe to make a name for yourselves.

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A soccer video of Erik Hort in Europe

 

 

 

What do you think of the Ianni trade and Boswell resigning?  With Daniels and Richardson will Toronto FC have the best midfield in MLS? Will Toronto FC make the playoffs?  Are you happy to hear that another player is attempting to make a name for himself in Europe? Share your thought. Let us know how you are doing on this wonderful Tues.

 

Warm up you DVRs or Tivo! Don't forget that Fulham plays Sunderland at 5pm est on FSC. For all Mexican National Team fans Mexico vs Sweden is tomorrow.

 

Included are weblogs that reference Latest soccer news: Wheeling and dealing.