With all of the doom and gloom surrounding the senior seleção, Brazil's U20 side provided some welcome relief this month. Ney Franco's charges saw off Portugal 3-2 on Saturday, sealing a fifth World Cup title in the process. In my latest article for In Bed With Maradona, I argue that the performances of players such as Oscar, Henrique, and Danilo point to a brighter future for the senior side.
The article can be accessed by clicking here.
Showing posts with label U20 World Cup. Show all posts
Showing posts with label U20 World Cup. Show all posts
Tuesday, 23 August 2011
Monday, 15 August 2011
Vasco Close Gap as Leaders Stutter; Brazil U20s Reach World Cup Semi-Final
Série A went goal crazy this weekend, in a (probably doomed) attempt to draw attention away from the big kick-off in Europe; 34 strikes rattled in around Brazil, many of them absolute crackers. With Corinthians, Flamengo, and São Paulo all failing to win, Vasco da Gama closed the gap at the top with a narrow victory over Palmeiras. Further down the table, there were convincing wins for Coritiba and Cruzeiro, but Santos fell to yet another loss. Brazil were also in action in the U20 World Cup, sneaking past Spain to reach the semi-finals.
Brasileirão Gameweek 16 Round-up
The ruthlessness that characterised Corinthians' start to the season has dissipated at astounding speed over the past few weeks. The Timão's crumbling defence was again at fault on Sunday, as Ceará twice came from behind to rescue a point at the Pacaembu; a lack of communication between Chicão and Leandro Castán allowed Osvaldo to cancel out Paulinho's opener, whilst Rudnei scrambled home a late equaliser amidst some lacklustre marking. The scoreline was harsh on Corinthians playmaker Alex, whose 25-yard piledriver was worthy of winning any match. Flamengo also contrived to snatch a draw from the jaws of victory; a brace from Deivid put them in control against Figueirense, only for Somália and Edson Silva to level things up in Florianópolis.
Listen up; Somália initiated Figueirense's fightback.
With glorious (three-way?) symmetry, third-placed São Paulo also drew 2-2; the Tricolor were held by the fast-improving Atlético Paranaense. In truth, Adílson Batista's side were slightly lucky to come away with a point; they needed a wondergoal from Ilsinho (who, incidentally, looks set to depart the club this week) and a last minute intervention from Rivaldo's crotch (true story) to gain parity. Those three results gave Vasco the chance to make up some ground on the leaders, an opportunity they gleefully accepted with a 1-0 win over Palmeiras. Young midfielder Bernardo has obviously been getting dead ball tips from Juninho Pernambucano; his impeccable free-kick would have graced even O Reizinho's highlights reel.
Joel Santana's inconsistent Cruzeiro outfit let off some steam on Saturday, thrashing Avaí 5-0 at the Parque do Sabiá. Argentine playmaker Walter Montillo was again at the heart of everything for the Raposa; he scored a penalty, missed another, and picked up two assists. Quicksilver striker Thiago Ribeiro, meanwhile, netted what is likely to be his last goal in royal blue; a move to Italian side Cagliari looks imminent. Cruzeiro are now level on points with Fluminense, who succumbed to Grêmio on Sunday night. A brace from journeyman midfielder Marquinhos ensured that Celso Roth's stewardship of the Porto Alegre side got off to a good start.
Foxtrot; Cruzeiro's Paraguayan forward José Ortigoza (right) protects the ball.
The post-Libertadores slump that has befallen Santos continued in full effect this week; the seasiders went down to Atlético-GO at the Serra Dourada. After soaking up pressure in the first half, the Dragão took advantage of some laughable Santos defending to bag two late goals and all three points. The loss leaves Muricy Ramalho's charges down in 16th position, only just above the hapless Atlético Mineiro. The Galo, whose permanent revolving door has been spinning even more frantically than usual of late, were well beaten by Coritiba on Sunday.
Botafogo's excellent recent form seemed to be coming to an abrupt end on Saturday; they found themselves two down to bottom club América Mineiro with just ten minutes on the clock. Caio Júnior's side produced a rousing comeback, however, to come away with a 4-2 victory. The pick of the goals came from Elkeson, who thumped an effort home via the underside of the crossbar. The win lifts O Glorioso up to fifth place. Internacional, meanwhile, who have finally appointed Dorival Júnior as permanent coach, could only manage a 1-1 draw with Bahia. The Colorado still have plenty of improving to do.
U20 World Cup Round-up
Brazil faced their stiffest challenge of the competition so far on Sunday night; the seleção came up against much-fancied Spain at the quarter-final stage. After 120 minutes of deadlock, Ney Franco's side would progress following a dramatic penalty shootout. In a nervy first half, it was Brazil who did enough to get their noses in front; Willian José tapped home from close range after Henrique's effort had clattered off the crossbar. Rodrigo's second half header, however, sent the match into extra time.
Brazil super sub Dudu celebrates his goal against Spain.
With both sides tiring, the seleção gained the lead for the second time; Dudu - Brazil's super sub in Colombia - swapped passes with Henrique before slotting joyously past Fernando Pacheco. Spain, though, reacted in style once more; Álvaro Vásquez turned home from Carles Planas' accurate cross. Cruzeiro goalkeeper Gabriel would turn out to be Brazil's penalty hero; he made two fine saves to dump Spain out of the tournament. Brazil now face Mexico, hoping to secure safe passage to Saturday's final.
Results. Série A; São Paulo 2-2 Atlético-PR, Cruzeiro 5-0 Avaí, Atlético-GO 2-0 Santos, Botafogo 4-2 América-MG, Corinthians 2-2 Ceará, Vasco 1-0 Palmeiras, Figueirense 2-2 Flamengo, Coritiba 3-0 Atlético-MG, Grêmio 2-1 Fluminense, Bahia 1-1 Internacional. U20 World Cup; Brazil 2-2 Spain (4-2 on penalties).
(Photo credits; (1) Cristiano Andujar, (2) Célio Messias, (3) Getty.)
Brasileirão Gameweek 16 Round-up
The ruthlessness that characterised Corinthians' start to the season has dissipated at astounding speed over the past few weeks. The Timão's crumbling defence was again at fault on Sunday, as Ceará twice came from behind to rescue a point at the Pacaembu; a lack of communication between Chicão and Leandro Castán allowed Osvaldo to cancel out Paulinho's opener, whilst Rudnei scrambled home a late equaliser amidst some lacklustre marking. The scoreline was harsh on Corinthians playmaker Alex, whose 25-yard piledriver was worthy of winning any match. Flamengo also contrived to snatch a draw from the jaws of victory; a brace from Deivid put them in control against Figueirense, only for Somália and Edson Silva to level things up in Florianópolis.
Listen up; Somália initiated Figueirense's fightback.
With glorious (three-way?) symmetry, third-placed São Paulo also drew 2-2; the Tricolor were held by the fast-improving Atlético Paranaense. In truth, Adílson Batista's side were slightly lucky to come away with a point; they needed a wondergoal from Ilsinho (who, incidentally, looks set to depart the club this week) and a last minute intervention from Rivaldo's crotch (true story) to gain parity. Those three results gave Vasco the chance to make up some ground on the leaders, an opportunity they gleefully accepted with a 1-0 win over Palmeiras. Young midfielder Bernardo has obviously been getting dead ball tips from Juninho Pernambucano; his impeccable free-kick would have graced even O Reizinho's highlights reel.
Joel Santana's inconsistent Cruzeiro outfit let off some steam on Saturday, thrashing Avaí 5-0 at the Parque do Sabiá. Argentine playmaker Walter Montillo was again at the heart of everything for the Raposa; he scored a penalty, missed another, and picked up two assists. Quicksilver striker Thiago Ribeiro, meanwhile, netted what is likely to be his last goal in royal blue; a move to Italian side Cagliari looks imminent. Cruzeiro are now level on points with Fluminense, who succumbed to Grêmio on Sunday night. A brace from journeyman midfielder Marquinhos ensured that Celso Roth's stewardship of the Porto Alegre side got off to a good start.
Foxtrot; Cruzeiro's Paraguayan forward José Ortigoza (right) protects the ball.
The post-Libertadores slump that has befallen Santos continued in full effect this week; the seasiders went down to Atlético-GO at the Serra Dourada. After soaking up pressure in the first half, the Dragão took advantage of some laughable Santos defending to bag two late goals and all three points. The loss leaves Muricy Ramalho's charges down in 16th position, only just above the hapless Atlético Mineiro. The Galo, whose permanent revolving door has been spinning even more frantically than usual of late, were well beaten by Coritiba on Sunday.
Botafogo's excellent recent form seemed to be coming to an abrupt end on Saturday; they found themselves two down to bottom club América Mineiro with just ten minutes on the clock. Caio Júnior's side produced a rousing comeback, however, to come away with a 4-2 victory. The pick of the goals came from Elkeson, who thumped an effort home via the underside of the crossbar. The win lifts O Glorioso up to fifth place. Internacional, meanwhile, who have finally appointed Dorival Júnior as permanent coach, could only manage a 1-1 draw with Bahia. The Colorado still have plenty of improving to do.
U20 World Cup Round-up
Brazil faced their stiffest challenge of the competition so far on Sunday night; the seleção came up against much-fancied Spain at the quarter-final stage. After 120 minutes of deadlock, Ney Franco's side would progress following a dramatic penalty shootout. In a nervy first half, it was Brazil who did enough to get their noses in front; Willian José tapped home from close range after Henrique's effort had clattered off the crossbar. Rodrigo's second half header, however, sent the match into extra time.
Brazil super sub Dudu celebrates his goal against Spain.
With both sides tiring, the seleção gained the lead for the second time; Dudu - Brazil's super sub in Colombia - swapped passes with Henrique before slotting joyously past Fernando Pacheco. Spain, though, reacted in style once more; Álvaro Vásquez turned home from Carles Planas' accurate cross. Cruzeiro goalkeeper Gabriel would turn out to be Brazil's penalty hero; he made two fine saves to dump Spain out of the tournament. Brazil now face Mexico, hoping to secure safe passage to Saturday's final.
Results. Série A; São Paulo 2-2 Atlético-PR, Cruzeiro 5-0 Avaí, Atlético-GO 2-0 Santos, Botafogo 4-2 América-MG, Corinthians 2-2 Ceará, Vasco 1-0 Palmeiras, Figueirense 2-2 Flamengo, Coritiba 3-0 Atlético-MG, Grêmio 2-1 Fluminense, Bahia 1-1 Internacional. U20 World Cup; Brazil 2-2 Spain (4-2 on penalties).
(Photo credits; (1) Cristiano Andujar, (2) Célio Messias, (3) Getty.)
Friday, 12 August 2011
Advantage Independiente in Recopa; Rio Clubs Start Well in Copa Sul-Americana
A slightly different midweek round-up for you this time, reader. With the Brasileirão finally taking a breather from its relentless HERE'S TWENTY GAMES EVERY SEVEN DAYS, DEAL WITH IT rhetoric, some rather more unobtrusive competitions crawled into the spotlight. Firstly, there was the start of the Copa Sul-Americana (the South American equivalent of the Europa League, for all you Europhiles), which pitted a group of not-quite-the-best-but-certainly-not-the-worst-thank-you Brazilian clubs against one another. The first leg of the Recopa Sul-Americana (which involves last year's Libertadores winners facing their Sul-Americana equivalents) between Independiente and Internacional also took place. In Colombia, meanwhile, the Brazil U20 side continued their World Cup campaign. Oh, and for all you stick-in-the-muds, there was a single Série A game to tide us over until the weekend. Deep breath now...
Independiente 2-1 Internacional
Much water has passed under the bridge since Internacional won the Libertadores last year. Twelve months, one Club World Cup disaster and two coaches later, the Colorado travelled to Argentina, hoping to add the Recopa to their trophy cabinet. The hosts, who defeated Brazilian side Goiás to claim the continent's secondary prize in 2010, started strongly; Inter 'keeper Muriel was peppered with shots early on. On a rare foray forward, however, the Porto Alegre side snatched the lead; a cross from Nei was deflected into the path of Leandro Damião, who turned expertly home.
Inter orbit; Andrés D'Alessandro probes for an opening against Independiente.
Independiente quickly reestablished their dominance, equalising through Maxi Velázquez and laying siege to the Inter goal after the break. When Marco Pérez finally bagged the winner with a deflected free-kick, the Avellaneda sighed with relief; a draw would have flattered the visitors enormously. Caretaker boss Osmar Loss (or Dorival Júnior, the man likely to be taking over) will hope for better at the Beira-Rio.
Copa Sul-Americana Round-up
With his Flamengo side setting the pace in the Campeonato Brasileiro, Vanderlei Luxemburgo would be forgiven for taking continental competition with a pinch of salt this year. The 59-year-old duly rested some of his key players for Wednesday's clash with Atlético-PR; Thiago Neves and Renato Abreu were rested, whilst Diego Maurício earnt a rare start in attack. A tight match was eventually settled by Ronaldinho, who came off the bench to convert a late penalty. The Furacão must win the second leg to stand a chance of progressing. Botafogo also have one foot in the next round; goals from Herrera and Maicosuel helped them to a 2-1 win over Atlético Mineiro.
In Fortaleza, an injury time strike from Marcelo Nicácio handed Ceará a narrow victory over São Paulo. The Tricolor, who had led the match thanks to Rivaldo's close range effort, have work to do at the Morumbi. Vasco, meanwhile, completed a good set of results for the Rio de Janeiro clubs, brushing aside Palmeiras at the São Januário. The Gigante da Colina went ahead in fortuitous fashion - Bernardo's corner kick ricocheted in off Diego Souza, who knew little about it - before a second half strike from Élton sealed the win. Vasco and Palmeiras will soon be sick of the sight of one another; they meet in Série A at the weekend, before squaring off again in the second leg.
U20 World Cup Round-up
Brazil sealed their place in the quarter finals of the U20 World Cup, beating Saudi Arabia with some ease on Wednesday night. After an evenly-matched first half, the seleção went ahead through Henrique, who ran onto Willian José's delightful flick and finished with aplomb. Palmeiras leftback Gabriel Silva - whose presence in the side owes much to the injury sustained by Alex Sandro earlier in the tournament - then made it two, sweeping home following another Willian assist. The icing on the cake came in the dying minutes; Oscar showed great vision to find substitute Dudu, whose finish crept under Abdullah Alsdairy in the Saudi Arabia goal. Ney Franco's men will play Spain in the last eight.
Brasileirão Round-up
Santos finally played one of their million games in hand, hosting rivals Corinthians at the Vila Belmiro. The result? A stale goalless draw, about which I shall say no more.
Results. Recopa Sul-Americana; Independiente 2-1 Internacional. Copa Sul-Americana; Atlético-MG 1-2 Botafogo, Flamengo 1-0 Atlético-PR, Ceará 2-1 São Paulo, Vasco 2-0 Palmeiras. U20 World Cup; Brazil 3-0 Saudi Arabia. Série A; Santos 0-0 Corinthians.
(Photo credits; (1) Alexandre Lops, (2) Cleber Mendes.)
Independiente 2-1 Internacional
Much water has passed under the bridge since Internacional won the Libertadores last year. Twelve months, one Club World Cup disaster and two coaches later, the Colorado travelled to Argentina, hoping to add the Recopa to their trophy cabinet. The hosts, who defeated Brazilian side Goiás to claim the continent's secondary prize in 2010, started strongly; Inter 'keeper Muriel was peppered with shots early on. On a rare foray forward, however, the Porto Alegre side snatched the lead; a cross from Nei was deflected into the path of Leandro Damião, who turned expertly home.
Inter orbit; Andrés D'Alessandro probes for an opening against Independiente.
Independiente quickly reestablished their dominance, equalising through Maxi Velázquez and laying siege to the Inter goal after the break. When Marco Pérez finally bagged the winner with a deflected free-kick, the Avellaneda sighed with relief; a draw would have flattered the visitors enormously. Caretaker boss Osmar Loss (or Dorival Júnior, the man likely to be taking over) will hope for better at the Beira-Rio.
Copa Sul-Americana Round-up
With his Flamengo side setting the pace in the Campeonato Brasileiro, Vanderlei Luxemburgo would be forgiven for taking continental competition with a pinch of salt this year. The 59-year-old duly rested some of his key players for Wednesday's clash with Atlético-PR; Thiago Neves and Renato Abreu were rested, whilst Diego Maurício earnt a rare start in attack. A tight match was eventually settled by Ronaldinho, who came off the bench to convert a late penalty. The Furacão must win the second leg to stand a chance of progressing. Botafogo also have one foot in the next round; goals from Herrera and Maicosuel helped them to a 2-1 win over Atlético Mineiro.
Higher power; Diego Souza (second left) celebrates his goal against Palmeiras.
In Fortaleza, an injury time strike from Marcelo Nicácio handed Ceará a narrow victory over São Paulo. The Tricolor, who had led the match thanks to Rivaldo's close range effort, have work to do at the Morumbi. Vasco, meanwhile, completed a good set of results for the Rio de Janeiro clubs, brushing aside Palmeiras at the São Januário. The Gigante da Colina went ahead in fortuitous fashion - Bernardo's corner kick ricocheted in off Diego Souza, who knew little about it - before a second half strike from Élton sealed the win. Vasco and Palmeiras will soon be sick of the sight of one another; they meet in Série A at the weekend, before squaring off again in the second leg.
U20 World Cup Round-up
Brazil sealed their place in the quarter finals of the U20 World Cup, beating Saudi Arabia with some ease on Wednesday night. After an evenly-matched first half, the seleção went ahead through Henrique, who ran onto Willian José's delightful flick and finished with aplomb. Palmeiras leftback Gabriel Silva - whose presence in the side owes much to the injury sustained by Alex Sandro earlier in the tournament - then made it two, sweeping home following another Willian assist. The icing on the cake came in the dying minutes; Oscar showed great vision to find substitute Dudu, whose finish crept under Abdullah Alsdairy in the Saudi Arabia goal. Ney Franco's men will play Spain in the last eight.
Brasileirão Round-up
Santos finally played one of their million games in hand, hosting rivals Corinthians at the Vila Belmiro. The result? A stale goalless draw, about which I shall say no more.
Results. Recopa Sul-Americana; Independiente 2-1 Internacional. Copa Sul-Americana; Atlético-MG 1-2 Botafogo, Flamengo 1-0 Atlético-PR, Ceará 2-1 São Paulo, Vasco 2-0 Palmeiras. U20 World Cup; Brazil 3-0 Saudi Arabia. Série A; Santos 0-0 Corinthians.
(Photo credits; (1) Alexandre Lops, (2) Cleber Mendes.)
Friday, 5 August 2011
'Dedéckenbauer' Halts Santos; Brazil U20s Hit Stride at World Cup
The action continues to flow thick and fast in Brazil; another round this week brought the Série A season one step closer to its halfway point. Corinthians recovered from their two-match blip with victory over hapless América-MG, but Flamengo, São Paulo, and Vasco da Gama all remain hot on their heels. At the bottom, Avaí and Atlético Paranaense continue to show signs of life. Over in Colombia, meanwhile, the Brazil U20 side looks to be finding their rhythm; they picked up two convincing wins since my last post.
Brasileirão Gameweek 14 Round-up
Following two consecutive losses, Corinthians were keen to get their house back in order against América Mineiro on Wednesday night. They enjoyed the perfect start at the Pacaembu; Jorge Henrique put them ahead after just 22 seconds, before the visitors had even touched the ball. The Coelho reacted well with a goal from Kempes, but a second half Paulinho effort handed Tite's side a much-needed victory. Flamengo maintained the pressure at the top, beating Cruzeiro in Sete Lagoas. Ronaldinho was again instrumental for Fla; his pirouette and pass allowed Deivid to net the only goal of the game.
Jorge Henrique celebrates his early goal for Corinthians.
São Paulo finally turned in a decent performance at the Morumbi, beating Bahia 3-0 to remain in third position. The ageless Rogério Ceni broke the deadlock in the opening period with an emphatic penalty kick, before Dagoberto and Lucas sealed the win with breakaway goals. Palmeiras, however, dropped points on the leaders, managing only a 1-1 draw with Coritiba. In truth, the Verdão were likely happy with a point, having had Thiago Heleno dismissed in the second period.
"Dedérminator!" punned Globo. "Dedéckenbauer!" ventured a friend of SKP. Yes, Wednesday evening's clash between Vasco and Santos belonged to one man alone. Up against the considerable collective talent of Neymar, Borges, and Paulo Henrique Ganso, cruzmaltino centreback Dedé turned in a fantastic performance, halting everything the Peixe threw at him and popping up with a goal at the other other end. An honourable mention also goes to Diego Souza, whose glorious opener would have been headline material in any other match. The 2-0 win leaves the Gigante da Colina sitting pretty in fourth place. Santos, however, remain entrenched in the relegation zone.
Dedé cool; the Vasco defender was imperious against Santos.
Fluminense continued their climb up the table, beating Internacional on Thursday evening. With Fred mysteriously missing from the squad (it later emerged that he wasn't in the right state of mind to play... whatever that means), Rafael Moura took full advantage of his moment in the spotlight; contributing to Souza's opener, and tucking away a late penalty. Things are looking up for Abel Braga's side. The same cannot be said for Grêmio; their 2-2 draw at home to Atlético-MG cost coach Julinho Camargo his job, just 33 days after he took the reigns at the Olímpico. New boss Celso Roth, whose CV is already peppered with spells in charge of the Tricolor, has quite a job on his hands.
At the bottom of the Brasileirão, both Avaí and Atlético-PR followed their promising weekend victories in fine style, picking up 3-0 away wins against Ceará and Atlético-GO respectively. Those matches were marked by impressive long-range strikes from near-namesakes Cleverson (for Avaí) and Kléberson (for the Furacão). Things are starting to get very interesting at the foot of the table. One club that continues to defy expectations of a relegation battle, though, is Figueirense; they're back in the top half, following a comfortable victory over Botafogo.
U20 World Cup Round-up
Having started their campaign with a disappointing draw against Egypt, the Brazil U20 side were eager to stamp their mark on the second week of the U20 World Cup. They did just that, picking up two convincing wins over the last few days. Ney Franco's side made short work of Austria on Monday night, securing a 3-0 win in Barranquilla. São Paulo strikers Henrique and Willian José were both on target for the seleção, whilst Philippe Coutinho capped his impressive display with a goal from the penalty spot.
Back in the spotlight; Philippe Coutinho has impressed for Brazil U20s.
Things got even better on Thursday; Brazil produced an excellent performance to brush aside Panama, a result that ensured top spot in Group E. After dominating the early exchanges, the seleçao came up with a double salvo just before the break; Henrique tucked home following a good run from Oscar, before Philippe Coutinho hit a neat second. The Internazionale midfielder went on to bag his third of the tournament in the second half, curling a low shot in at the far post after some bewitching footwork. With the three points safe, Brazil relaxed in the latter stages, but were still able to grab a fourth; Cruzeiro youngster Dudu finished with aplomb in the dying minutes. Ney Franco's side will face either Nigeria or Saudi Arabia in the next round.
Results. Série A; Corinthians 1-0 América-MG, Grêmio 2-2 Atlético-MG, Figueirense 2-0 Botafogo, Ceará 0-3 Avaí, Vasco 2-0 Santos, Cruzeiro 0-1 Flamengo, Coritiba 1-1 Palmeiras, São Paulo 3-0 Bahia, Fluminense 2-0 Internacional, Atlético-GO 0-3 Atlético-PR. U20 World Cup; Brazil 3-0 Austria, Brazil 4-0 Panama.
(Photo credits; (1) Eduardo Viana, (2) Paulo Sergio, (3) Vanderlei Almeida.)
Brasileirão Gameweek 14 Round-up
Following two consecutive losses, Corinthians were keen to get their house back in order against América Mineiro on Wednesday night. They enjoyed the perfect start at the Pacaembu; Jorge Henrique put them ahead after just 22 seconds, before the visitors had even touched the ball. The Coelho reacted well with a goal from Kempes, but a second half Paulinho effort handed Tite's side a much-needed victory. Flamengo maintained the pressure at the top, beating Cruzeiro in Sete Lagoas. Ronaldinho was again instrumental for Fla; his pirouette and pass allowed Deivid to net the only goal of the game.
Jorge Henrique celebrates his early goal for Corinthians.São Paulo finally turned in a decent performance at the Morumbi, beating Bahia 3-0 to remain in third position. The ageless Rogério Ceni broke the deadlock in the opening period with an emphatic penalty kick, before Dagoberto and Lucas sealed the win with breakaway goals. Palmeiras, however, dropped points on the leaders, managing only a 1-1 draw with Coritiba. In truth, the Verdão were likely happy with a point, having had Thiago Heleno dismissed in the second period.
"Dedérminator!" punned Globo. "Dedéckenbauer!" ventured a friend of SKP. Yes, Wednesday evening's clash between Vasco and Santos belonged to one man alone. Up against the considerable collective talent of Neymar, Borges, and Paulo Henrique Ganso, cruzmaltino centreback Dedé turned in a fantastic performance, halting everything the Peixe threw at him and popping up with a goal at the other other end. An honourable mention also goes to Diego Souza, whose glorious opener would have been headline material in any other match. The 2-0 win leaves the Gigante da Colina sitting pretty in fourth place. Santos, however, remain entrenched in the relegation zone.
Dedé cool; the Vasco defender was imperious against Santos.Fluminense continued their climb up the table, beating Internacional on Thursday evening. With Fred mysteriously missing from the squad (it later emerged that he wasn't in the right state of mind to play... whatever that means), Rafael Moura took full advantage of his moment in the spotlight; contributing to Souza's opener, and tucking away a late penalty. Things are looking up for Abel Braga's side. The same cannot be said for Grêmio; their 2-2 draw at home to Atlético-MG cost coach Julinho Camargo his job, just 33 days after he took the reigns at the Olímpico. New boss Celso Roth, whose CV is already peppered with spells in charge of the Tricolor, has quite a job on his hands.
At the bottom of the Brasileirão, both Avaí and Atlético-PR followed their promising weekend victories in fine style, picking up 3-0 away wins against Ceará and Atlético-GO respectively. Those matches were marked by impressive long-range strikes from near-namesakes Cleverson (for Avaí) and Kléberson (for the Furacão). Things are starting to get very interesting at the foot of the table. One club that continues to defy expectations of a relegation battle, though, is Figueirense; they're back in the top half, following a comfortable victory over Botafogo.
U20 World Cup Round-up
Having started their campaign with a disappointing draw against Egypt, the Brazil U20 side were eager to stamp their mark on the second week of the U20 World Cup. They did just that, picking up two convincing wins over the last few days. Ney Franco's side made short work of Austria on Monday night, securing a 3-0 win in Barranquilla. São Paulo strikers Henrique and Willian José were both on target for the seleção, whilst Philippe Coutinho capped his impressive display with a goal from the penalty spot.
Back in the spotlight; Philippe Coutinho has impressed for Brazil U20s.Things got even better on Thursday; Brazil produced an excellent performance to brush aside Panama, a result that ensured top spot in Group E. After dominating the early exchanges, the seleçao came up with a double salvo just before the break; Henrique tucked home following a good run from Oscar, before Philippe Coutinho hit a neat second. The Internazionale midfielder went on to bag his third of the tournament in the second half, curling a low shot in at the far post after some bewitching footwork. With the three points safe, Brazil relaxed in the latter stages, but were still able to grab a fourth; Cruzeiro youngster Dudu finished with aplomb in the dying minutes. Ney Franco's side will face either Nigeria or Saudi Arabia in the next round.
Results. Série A; Corinthians 1-0 América-MG, Grêmio 2-2 Atlético-MG, Figueirense 2-0 Botafogo, Ceará 0-3 Avaí, Vasco 2-0 Santos, Cruzeiro 0-1 Flamengo, Coritiba 1-1 Palmeiras, São Paulo 3-0 Bahia, Fluminense 2-0 Internacional, Atlético-GO 0-3 Atlético-PR. U20 World Cup; Brazil 3-0 Austria, Brazil 4-0 Panama.
(Photo credits; (1) Eduardo Viana, (2) Paulo Sergio, (3) Vanderlei Almeida.)
Monday, 1 August 2011
Avaí and Furacão Beat Paulista Giants; Fluminense Thrash Ceará at the Engenhão
Just when you think you're getting to grips with Série A's runners and riders, things get complicated. Corinthians, the runaway league leaders, lost their second match on the bounce on Saturday, succumbing to lowly Avaí. São Paulo also continue to stutter; they went down to Vasco at the Morumbi. Cruzeiro and Santos, both widely tipped for glory this season, also tasted defeat over the weekend. In Colombia, meanwhile, Brazil's U20 side started their World Cup campaign against Egypt. So, without further delay...
Brasileirão Gameweek 13 Round-up
It's been a tough week for Renan. Since replacing the injured Júlio César in the Corinthians side, the young goalkeeper has let in five goals; the same number his side conceded in their first ten games of the campaign. To make matters worse, it was his former club Avaí that inflicted the damage on Sunday, storming to a 3-2 victory over the Timão. Rafael Coelho scored the pick of the goals at the Ressacada, bursting through a static Corinthians defence to finish with aplomb. That result allowed Flamengo to reduce the gap at the top to just one point; the Rubro-Negro cruised to a 2-0 victory over Grêmio. Ronaldinho was again the star of the show, scoring one and setting up another against his boyhood club.
Rampant rabbit; Rafael Coelho (right) celebrates his winning goal for Avaí.
São Paulo, meanwhile, wasted their chance to gain ground on their bitter rivals, losing to Vasco at the Morumbi. Ricardo Gomes got his tactics spot on against his former employers, selecting Jumar to man mark Lucas, and pushing Juninho Pernambucano into a more advanced position. Breakaway goals from Éder Luís and substitute Felipe ensured that the Gigante da Colina earnt the three points that their disciplined display deserved. Botafogo also battled to an impressive away win, beating Cruzeiro thanks to a powerful strike from returning hero 'Loco' Abreu.
Having thrown away a 3-0 lead against Flamengo during the week, Santos were keen to make amends against Atlético Paranaense. The Furação, however, had other ideas, and turned in an inspired performance on the waterlogged Arena da Baixada turf. Following lovely goals from Cléber Santana and Neymar, it was Marcinho who settled the match with a late header. The Peixe now find themselves in the relegation zone, albeit with three games in hand. Another big side struggling for form is Atlético-MG, who succumbed to Palmeiras at the Canindé. Under fire midfielder Marcos Assunção scored the goal of the game, bending home a trademark free kick from distance.
Pastures new; Rafael Sobis is enjoying life at new club Fluminense.
After weeks of frustration, Fluminense finally came up with a convincing display, brushing aside Ceará at the Engenhão. Rafael Sobis opened his account for the Tricolor with a smart left-footed strike, whilst Fred also bagged his first goal of the Brasileirão season. Internacional, Sobis' former club, could only manage a 0-0 draw with Atlético Goianiense. Maybe a mid-season trip to Germany wasn't such a great idea after all. Elsewhere, there were good wins for Bahia (against Figueirense) and Coritiba (who consigned América Mineiro to last place in the table).
U20 World Cup Round-up
Ney Franco's Brazil side endured a tricky start to their U20 World Cup campaign, battling to a 1-1 with Egypt. Recent Porto signing Danilo put the seleção ahead with a powerful header from a corner, but Egypt reacted immediately, restoring parity through Omar Gaber. With the likes of Casemiro and Oscar unable to recapture their recent club form, Brazil were second best for long spells in Barranquilla, and in the end will likely have been content with a point. Next up for the youngsters; Austria.
Results. Série A; Flamengo 2-0 Grêmio, Cruzeiro 0-1 Botafogo, Palmeiras 3-2 Atlético-MG, São Paulo 0-2 Vasco, Fluminense 4-0 Ceará, Internacional 0-0 Atlético-GO, Avaí 3-2 Corinthians, Atlético-PR 3-2 Santos, América-MG 1-3 Coritiba, Bahia 3-1 Figueirense. U20 World Cup; Brazil 1-1 Egypt.
(Photo credits; (1) Cristiano Andujar, (2) Paulo Sergio.)
Brasileirão Gameweek 13 Round-up
It's been a tough week for Renan. Since replacing the injured Júlio César in the Corinthians side, the young goalkeeper has let in five goals; the same number his side conceded in their first ten games of the campaign. To make matters worse, it was his former club Avaí that inflicted the damage on Sunday, storming to a 3-2 victory over the Timão. Rafael Coelho scored the pick of the goals at the Ressacada, bursting through a static Corinthians defence to finish with aplomb. That result allowed Flamengo to reduce the gap at the top to just one point; the Rubro-Negro cruised to a 2-0 victory over Grêmio. Ronaldinho was again the star of the show, scoring one and setting up another against his boyhood club.
Rampant rabbit; Rafael Coelho (right) celebrates his winning goal for Avaí.São Paulo, meanwhile, wasted their chance to gain ground on their bitter rivals, losing to Vasco at the Morumbi. Ricardo Gomes got his tactics spot on against his former employers, selecting Jumar to man mark Lucas, and pushing Juninho Pernambucano into a more advanced position. Breakaway goals from Éder Luís and substitute Felipe ensured that the Gigante da Colina earnt the three points that their disciplined display deserved. Botafogo also battled to an impressive away win, beating Cruzeiro thanks to a powerful strike from returning hero 'Loco' Abreu.
Having thrown away a 3-0 lead against Flamengo during the week, Santos were keen to make amends against Atlético Paranaense. The Furação, however, had other ideas, and turned in an inspired performance on the waterlogged Arena da Baixada turf. Following lovely goals from Cléber Santana and Neymar, it was Marcinho who settled the match with a late header. The Peixe now find themselves in the relegation zone, albeit with three games in hand. Another big side struggling for form is Atlético-MG, who succumbed to Palmeiras at the Canindé. Under fire midfielder Marcos Assunção scored the goal of the game, bending home a trademark free kick from distance.
Pastures new; Rafael Sobis is enjoying life at new club Fluminense.After weeks of frustration, Fluminense finally came up with a convincing display, brushing aside Ceará at the Engenhão. Rafael Sobis opened his account for the Tricolor with a smart left-footed strike, whilst Fred also bagged his first goal of the Brasileirão season. Internacional, Sobis' former club, could only manage a 0-0 draw with Atlético Goianiense. Maybe a mid-season trip to Germany wasn't such a great idea after all. Elsewhere, there were good wins for Bahia (against Figueirense) and Coritiba (who consigned América Mineiro to last place in the table).
U20 World Cup Round-up
Ney Franco's Brazil side endured a tricky start to their U20 World Cup campaign, battling to a 1-1 with Egypt. Recent Porto signing Danilo put the seleção ahead with a powerful header from a corner, but Egypt reacted immediately, restoring parity through Omar Gaber. With the likes of Casemiro and Oscar unable to recapture their recent club form, Brazil were second best for long spells in Barranquilla, and in the end will likely have been content with a point. Next up for the youngsters; Austria.
Results. Série A; Flamengo 2-0 Grêmio, Cruzeiro 0-1 Botafogo, Palmeiras 3-2 Atlético-MG, São Paulo 0-2 Vasco, Fluminense 4-0 Ceará, Internacional 0-0 Atlético-GO, Avaí 3-2 Corinthians, Atlético-PR 3-2 Santos, América-MG 1-3 Coritiba, Bahia 3-1 Figueirense. U20 World Cup; Brazil 1-1 Egypt.
(Photo credits; (1) Cristiano Andujar, (2) Paulo Sergio.)
Thursday, 16 June 2011
Franco Announces Squad for U20 World Cup
Brazil U20 boss Ney Franco has named his provisional squad ahead of the U20 World Cup in Peru. Plenty of familiar faces have made the cut, including Philippe Coutinho, Casemiro, and Diego Maurício. The involvement of Neymar and Lucas in the Copa América, however, means that they won't play a part.
In the squad; Philippe Coutinho.
The full squad is as follows;
Aleks (Avaí)
César (Flamengo)
Gabriel (Cruzeiro)
Danilo (Santos)
Galhardo (Flamengo)
Alex Sandro (Santos)
Gabriel Silva (Palmeiras)
Bruno Uvini (São Paulo)
Juan (Internacional)
Romário (Internacional)
Frauches (Flamengo)
Allan (Vasco da Gama)
Casemiro (São Paulo)
Fernando (Grêmio)
Dudu (Cruzeiro)
Alan Patrick (Santos)
Felipe Anderson (Santos)
Oscar (Internacional)
Philippe Coutinho (Internazionale)
Roni (Criciúma)
Diego Maurício (Flamengo)
Henrique (São Paulo)
Willian José (São Paulo)
Negueba (Flamengo)
Roberto Firmino (Hoffenheim)
Sebá (Cruzeiro)
The list, then, includes five Flamengo youngsters, three of which (Diego Maurício, Galhardo, Negueba) have featured for the first team this term. São Paulo and Santos are also well represented in the seleção. Coutinho - who was disappointed to miss the South American U20 tournament through injury - will likely attract plenty of interest, as will Casemiro, who is reported to be the subject of transfer interest from Europe. The tournament starts on the 29th of July.
(Oh, and a round of applause for what might be the weirdest name ever. Take a bow, Frauches.)
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