Brazil to the FIFA World Ranking always stay number one ranking in the world because of their times of winning the soccer world cups. Italy won the world cups in 2006 beating France in the finals promoted to second place behind the popular country, Brazil. Argentina the world FIFA world ranking taking third place after the world cup are now the favourite in FIFA world ranking. Staying number one ranking in the FIFA world ranking for the first time beating brazil and Italy having 1616 points.Italy remains in second place with a point of 1592 and Brazil all times number one drops to third place having secure 1557 points
England one of the best country to watch them playing soccer drops from fifth place to six place because of their poor performers during this european match only secure 1339 points, France in forth with 1515 points, Germany in fifth with 1390, follow by Holland 1313, Portugal 1288, Czech rep 1195 and ten place is Spain with 1161 points.
The others evelven sports to twenty are as follows Ukraine 1037, Croatia 982, Greece 961, Romania 919, Sweden 914, Scothland 911, Switzerland 906, Cameroon 893, Ghana 881 and Ivory Coast 875.
Friday, April 06, 2007
Wednesday, December 13, 2006
South Africa 19th FIFA world cup
In the year 2010 South Africa will be the host of 19th FIFA world cup and is the first time that the FIFA world cup is held in a African continent. After one round of voting, the winning bid was announced by FIFA president Sepp Blatter at a media conference on May 15 2004 in Zurich. South Africa 14 votes was awarded the rights to host the tournament, defeating Morocco having 10 votes and Egypt.
Ten venue choosen by FIFA world cup to be held in South Africa is 1) Cape Town African Renaissance Stadium, 2) Johannesburg Soccer City, 3) Durban King Senzangakhona Stadium, 4) Port Elizabeth Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium, 5) Johannesburg Ellis Park Stadium, 6) Pretoria Loftus Versfeld Stadium, 7) Nelspruit Mbombela Stadium, 8) Rustenburg Royal Bafokeng Stadium, 9) Bloemfontein Free State Stadium, 10) Polokwane Peter Mokaba Stadium
Ten venue choosen by FIFA world cup to be held in South Africa is 1) Cape Town African Renaissance Stadium, 2) Johannesburg Soccer City, 3) Durban King Senzangakhona Stadium, 4) Port Elizabeth Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium, 5) Johannesburg Ellis Park Stadium, 6) Pretoria Loftus Versfeld Stadium, 7) Nelspruit Mbombela Stadium, 8) Rustenburg Royal Bafokeng Stadium, 9) Bloemfontein Free State Stadium, 10) Polokwane Peter Mokaba Stadium
Thursday, November 09, 2006
The best player in world in 2006
When coming to select the player of the year all nations, clubs and players will start to think about who deserves to be the sports personality of the year. Ronaldinho is still the best choice to win the awards in 2006.
Always putting a smile in his face when playing soccer, Ronaldinho is still rated the best player in world by FIFA world ranking and admire and support by his fan and supporters with his soccer tricks, clips and passing. Last year voted the best players of the year by FIFA WORLD RANKING playing for Barcelona, his team mate Eto was second runners up while chelsea player Lampard was runners up in 2005.
Always putting a smile in his face when playing soccer, Ronaldinho is still rated the best player in world by FIFA world ranking and admire and support by his fan and supporters with his soccer tricks, clips and passing. Last year voted the best players of the year by FIFA WORLD RANKING playing for Barcelona, his team mate Eto was second runners up while chelsea player Lampard was runners up in 2005.
Wednesday, October 11, 2006
Present ranking do not reflect strengths of the national teams.
The ranking system was most recently revamped after the 2006 World Cup, with the first edition of the new series of rankings issued on July 12, 2006. The most significant change is that the rankings are now based on results over the previous four years instead of the previous eight years. The change is perceived to respond to criticisms that the rankings do not effectively reflect the relative strengths of the national teams.
From today's FIFA world ranking we see alot of changes from positions to positions as point alloted from game their play in the international match, win-3, draw-1 or lose.
Italy after their won the world cups up to second position but now down to fifth spots behind England who never won any international this four years.
Brazil remains number one no dough their are five times world champion but their play less international compare to europe country. Argentina is another country still remains number 3 in the world but not a very good team compare to the time of Diago Maranonia. FRANCE NO 2 taking the place from Italy after the september ranking. Czech is up to 7 place and Spain down to 10th.
From today's FIFA world ranking we see alot of changes from positions to positions as point alloted from game their play in the international match, win-3, draw-1 or lose.
Italy after their won the world cups up to second position but now down to fifth spots behind England who never won any international this four years.
Brazil remains number one no dough their are five times world champion but their play less international compare to europe country. Argentina is another country still remains number 3 in the world but not a very good team compare to the time of Diago Maranonia. FRANCE NO 2 taking the place from Italy after the september ranking. Czech is up to 7 place and Spain down to 10th.
Tuesday, October 03, 2006
FIFA World Ranking for September 2006
Current info about FIFA World Ranking is not always the easiest thing to locate. Fortunately, this report includes the latest fifa world ranking info available.
Since the change to the FIFA World Ranking procedure which came into effect in August 2006 the rankings will no longer take into account the last eight years of results only the last four years of results.
The FIFA World Rankings for September 2006, Brazil remain top, followed by France and Argentina. England are up to the heady heights of fourth. Italy the world champion in 2006 and fifa world ranking number 2 after they won the cup are down to fifth place.
6 Netherlands, 7 Czech Republic 8 Germany 9 Portugal 10 Spain . These are the top ten FIFA World Ranking for September 2006.
Malaysia are in 148th position, Japan are up to 47th position. South Korea occupy 49th position. The USA drop to 29th.
Since the change to the FIFA World Ranking procedure which came into effect in August 2006 the rankings will no longer take into account the last eight years of results only the last four years of results.
The FIFA World Rankings for September 2006, Brazil remain top, followed by France and Argentina. England are up to the heady heights of fourth. Italy the world champion in 2006 and fifa world ranking number 2 after they won the cup are down to fifth place.
6 Netherlands, 7 Czech Republic 8 Germany 9 Portugal 10 Spain . These are the top ten FIFA World Ranking for September 2006.
Malaysia are in 148th position, Japan are up to 47th position. South Korea occupy 49th position. The USA drop to 29th.
Thursday, September 21, 2006
Fifa world ranking- Brazil still no.1
This year 2006 world cup finals are being held in Germany and it promises to be a very exciting and entertaining event. The tournament which only takes place every four years is in my opinion the biggest sporting event which takes place. It means everything to all of the players taking part as well as to the supporters.
Italy won the world cup this year and is Fifa world ranking number 2 behind Brazil.
USA is one disappointing teams losing to Czechs 3-0, drawing to Italy the eventually world chamption 1-1 and finally lost to Ghana 2-1. After the first round exit the American soccer team fell from 5th to 16th in the FIFA World rankings.
England is one best team to watch. They play a very good attacking and defence game
but lack the finish touch and their poor penalty takker.
Brazil is one of the team to watch but lost to France in the semi.
This year world cup we saw all the the European country in the semi and the final.
Italy won the world cup this year and is Fifa world ranking number 2 behind Brazil.
USA is one disappointing teams losing to Czechs 3-0, drawing to Italy the eventually world chamption 1-1 and finally lost to Ghana 2-1. After the first round exit the American soccer team fell from 5th to 16th in the FIFA World rankings.
England is one best team to watch. They play a very good attacking and defence game
but lack the finish touch and their poor penalty takker.
Brazil is one of the team to watch but lost to France in the semi.
This year world cup we saw all the the European country in the semi and the final.
Wednesday, September 13, 2006
FIFA World Ranking : Italy is now world no. 2 in racking
Italy became fifa world ranking numbers two after won the fifa world cup in the year 2006 by beating France 2-0 in the finals. Brazil still remains world ranking numbers one after losing to France in the semi-finals. Germany as a host losing to Italy in the semi-finals and beating portugal for third placing stay in 9th position.
Argentina stays in third placing follows by France 4th, England 5th, Holland 6th, Spain 7th, Portugal 8th, Germany 9th and 10th placing Czech Republic.
U.S.A drop to 23 position and Japan occopy 48th position after friendy match against Tri and Tob.
Argentina stays in third placing follows by France 4th, England 5th, Holland 6th, Spain 7th, Portugal 8th, Germany 9th and 10th placing Czech Republic.
U.S.A drop to 23 position and Japan occopy 48th position after friendy match against Tri and Tob.
Tuesday, September 05, 2006
FIFA World Ranking : Growth follows investment in grassroots
From cannon fodder to credible opponents, Lithuania's reputation as a football nation is growing by the day. Saturday's 1-1 draw with Italy was another benchmark of the dramatic progress they have made, but there are plenty of others.
Three and a half years ago, when Berti Vogts' side lost 1-0 in Kaunas, Lithuania were 97th in the FIFA world rankings compared to Scotland's 59. A steady improvement under Walter Smith has brought Scotland up 19 places to 40, but Lithuania have shown even greater signs of progress, jumping 32 places to 65th.
Liutauras Varanavicius, the president of the Lithuanian FA, welcomed the improvement at national level but feels the most significant work is being done at grassroots in a country where basketball has historically been the main sport.
"People who are working inside football can see the great progress we have made," he said. "The effect has been felt not only in our ranking, but in the standard of coaching and the development of players.
"We have managed to increase participation levels by 40% over the last four years and last year they [participation levels]
reached the same as basketball for the first time.
"Those who are playing in the national team are products of long-term investment which was undertaken before independence. But the products of the work we have done in recent years are seen in our 14 and 15-year-olds, of whom the standard is very high."
Government-funded training facilities and investment has been the bedrock of Lithuania's development and the country has started to make its name as an exporter of talent. Around half of the squad play overseas, including four Hearts players – Saulius Mikoliunas, Deividas Cesnauskis, Marius Zaliukas and Edgaras Jankauskas, who is the country's most famous export, but will miss out tonight through injury.
Copyright © 2006 Newsquest (Herald & Times)
Three and a half years ago, when Berti Vogts' side lost 1-0 in Kaunas, Lithuania were 97th in the FIFA world rankings compared to Scotland's 59. A steady improvement under Walter Smith has brought Scotland up 19 places to 40, but Lithuania have shown even greater signs of progress, jumping 32 places to 65th.
Liutauras Varanavicius, the president of the Lithuanian FA, welcomed the improvement at national level but feels the most significant work is being done at grassroots in a country where basketball has historically been the main sport.
"People who are working inside football can see the great progress we have made," he said. "The effect has been felt not only in our ranking, but in the standard of coaching and the development of players.
"We have managed to increase participation levels by 40% over the last four years and last year they [participation levels]
reached the same as basketball for the first time.
"Those who are playing in the national team are products of long-term investment which was undertaken before independence. But the products of the work we have done in recent years are seen in our 14 and 15-year-olds, of whom the standard is very high."
Government-funded training facilities and investment has been the bedrock of Lithuania's development and the country has started to make its name as an exporter of talent. Around half of the squad play overseas, including four Hearts players – Saulius Mikoliunas, Deividas Cesnauskis, Marius Zaliukas and Edgaras Jankauskas, who is the country's most famous export, but will miss out tonight through injury.
Copyright © 2006 Newsquest (Herald & Times)
FIFA World Ranking : Dominican Republic plan for the future 2
The sport that enjoys huge popular appeal is baseball, unsurprising given that more than a hundred Dominican peloteros are presently lighting up the Big Leagues in the USA. After that comes basketball, volleyball, athletics, and only then football. "Although that's the reality," says Guzmán, "in Venezuela, another country with a huge baseball culture, football has made inroads. I believe it will happen here too."
Support and encouraging signs
Local officials, working tirelessly to accelerate the growth of football in the Dominican Republic, have found an ally and helping hand in FIFA. In 2005, under the auspices of FIFA's Com-Unity Programme, delegates agreed on the need for better marketing and communication initiatives to develop the sport. Speaking at the time, Guzmán said: "This (programme) will mark a watershed in the history of our football."
Early signs of progress can be seen in the development of the national U-20 side, who have just qualified for the second phase of the CONCACAF qualifying tournament for the FIFA U-20 World Cup to be held in Canada next year. Particularly impressive have been Kerbi Rodríguez and Jonathan Fana, two talented youngsters with bright futures. Unfortunately, the team's success has generated little interest in the local media.
Current national team coach Ljubomir Crnokrak is also aware of what the sport is up against. "It's clear that we lack financial resources, but these youngsters have real quality. The potential for Dominican football is enormous. Yet for all of that, the papers give us no coverage. Even one or two lines a week would be an additional motivation for the players," said the Croat.
Despite a lack of friendlies, the Quisqueyanos are confidently looking ahead to the Copa Caribe Digicel 2007, which serves as the qualifying tournament for the CONCACAF Gold Cup USA 2007. In their first-round Group C games, scheduled for 26-30 September, the team will take on Bermuda (http://25worldcountry.blogspot.com/
), the British Virgin Islands (167th) and the US Virgin Islands (193rd). To keep their qualifying dreams alive, they must finish among the top two. Long term, though, their goal remains a historic first appearance at the 2014 FIFA World Cup.
© 2002-2005 NoticiasB2B, S.L.
Support and encouraging signs
Local officials, working tirelessly to accelerate the growth of football in the Dominican Republic, have found an ally and helping hand in FIFA. In 2005, under the auspices of FIFA's Com-Unity Programme, delegates agreed on the need for better marketing and communication initiatives to develop the sport. Speaking at the time, Guzmán said: "This (programme) will mark a watershed in the history of our football."
Early signs of progress can be seen in the development of the national U-20 side, who have just qualified for the second phase of the CONCACAF qualifying tournament for the FIFA U-20 World Cup to be held in Canada next year. Particularly impressive have been Kerbi Rodríguez and Jonathan Fana, two talented youngsters with bright futures. Unfortunately, the team's success has generated little interest in the local media.
Current national team coach Ljubomir Crnokrak is also aware of what the sport is up against. "It's clear that we lack financial resources, but these youngsters have real quality. The potential for Dominican football is enormous. Yet for all of that, the papers give us no coverage. Even one or two lines a week would be an additional motivation for the players," said the Croat.
Despite a lack of friendlies, the Quisqueyanos are confidently looking ahead to the Copa Caribe Digicel 2007, which serves as the qualifying tournament for the CONCACAF Gold Cup USA 2007. In their first-round Group C games, scheduled for 26-30 September, the team will take on Bermuda (http://25worldcountry.blogspot.com/
), the British Virgin Islands (167th) and the US Virgin Islands (193rd). To keep their qualifying dreams alive, they must finish among the top two. Long term, though, their goal remains a historic first appearance at the 2014 FIFA World Cup.
© 2002-2005 NoticiasB2B, S.L.
FIFA World Ranking : Dominican Republic plan for the future 1
For some nations, moving up the FIFA/Coca-Cola World Ranking to position number 171 would be of little significance. But for all those working to help the beautiful game grow in the Dominican Republic, the news is encouraging, particularly for those dreaming of one day seeing their beloved Quisqueyanos at the finals of a FIFA World Cup™.
The President of the Dominican Football Federation (DFF), Osiris Guzmán, has said on numerous occasions: "If Haiti can reach the World Cup, then we can too." It was thus in 2004, after the national team had crashed out of the qualifiers for Germany 2006 at the hands of eventual finalists Trinidad and Tobago, that Guzmán laid the foundation stone of a ten-year plan aimed at qualifying for the 2014 FIFA World Cup.
Teething troubles
One of the main problems with football in the Caribbean nation is that it is a relatively new sport and still to flourish at grassroots level. With the DFF founded as recently as 1953 and only affiliated to FIFA in 1959, it was not until 1965 that football reached the schools and playing grounds of the Dominican Republic, thanks in the main to the efforts of Fortunato Quispe Mendoza. From an infrastructure standpoint, it was also Mendoza who established the various playing categories and set up the country's first division championship.
In spite of these efforts, today football remains the country's fifth most popular sport. As well as being a relatively new discipline for the Dominicans, efforts to nurture the sport have not been helped by the lack of success of the national team, who have still to qualify for any tournament of significance at either senior or youth level, and a national league that struggles to attract a viewing audience or fan base.
© 2002-2005 NoticiasB2B, S.L.
The President of the Dominican Football Federation (DFF), Osiris Guzmán, has said on numerous occasions: "If Haiti can reach the World Cup, then we can too." It was thus in 2004, after the national team had crashed out of the qualifiers for Germany 2006 at the hands of eventual finalists Trinidad and Tobago, that Guzmán laid the foundation stone of a ten-year plan aimed at qualifying for the 2014 FIFA World Cup.
Teething troubles
One of the main problems with football in the Caribbean nation is that it is a relatively new sport and still to flourish at grassroots level. With the DFF founded as recently as 1953 and only affiliated to FIFA in 1959, it was not until 1965 that football reached the schools and playing grounds of the Dominican Republic, thanks in the main to the efforts of Fortunato Quispe Mendoza. From an infrastructure standpoint, it was also Mendoza who established the various playing categories and set up the country's first division championship.
In spite of these efforts, today football remains the country's fifth most popular sport. As well as being a relatively new discipline for the Dominicans, efforts to nurture the sport have not been helped by the lack of success of the national team, who have still to qualify for any tournament of significance at either senior or youth level, and a national league that struggles to attract a viewing audience or fan base.
© 2002-2005 NoticiasB2B, S.L.
Thursday, August 31, 2006
FIFA World Ranking : Player of the Day
Player of the Day
Andrea Pirlo - such cultured skills emanating from midfield
It caused barely a ripple in Italy’s assured stride. Their passes were sticking, their tackles hitting home. Andrea Pirlo and Gennaro Gattuso had established command of midfield while down the right Gianluca Zambrotta and Camoranesi combined impressively.
It was Camoranesi’s persistence and tight control near the touchline that forced the corner that yielded the 19th-minute equaliser. Pirlo’s delivery was inch-perfect and Materazzi powered his header home.
Just at that moment the sun had reappeared from behind a cloud to throw light on Italy’s spirited recovery and stoke up the temperatures inside the arena. Henry began to emerge as a key performer, seemingly impossible to shrug off the ball, and that also brought the best out of the dynamic newcomer Frank Ribery.
France came close on several occasions and in extra time Zidane would have scored with a header had Buffon not denied him. The night was soon to take an even more devastating turn for Zizou, a moment of madness ensuring that his retirement began at least nine minutes earlier than it should have done.
Goal of the Day
Fabio Grosso - such coolness under pressure
Trezeguet’s miss meant that as Grosso stepped up for the long walk from the half-way line the world was in his hands. A no-nonsense left-foot strike into the right-hand corner of the net underlined the contribution the Palermo defender has made to the Italian cause this past month. After a gap of 24 years they were world champions once more.
FIFA World Ranking
Copyright © 2006 FIFA. All rights reserved.
Andrea Pirlo - such cultured skills emanating from midfield
It caused barely a ripple in Italy’s assured stride. Their passes were sticking, their tackles hitting home. Andrea Pirlo and Gennaro Gattuso had established command of midfield while down the right Gianluca Zambrotta and Camoranesi combined impressively.
It was Camoranesi’s persistence and tight control near the touchline that forced the corner that yielded the 19th-minute equaliser. Pirlo’s delivery was inch-perfect and Materazzi powered his header home.
Just at that moment the sun had reappeared from behind a cloud to throw light on Italy’s spirited recovery and stoke up the temperatures inside the arena. Henry began to emerge as a key performer, seemingly impossible to shrug off the ball, and that also brought the best out of the dynamic newcomer Frank Ribery.
France came close on several occasions and in extra time Zidane would have scored with a header had Buffon not denied him. The night was soon to take an even more devastating turn for Zizou, a moment of madness ensuring that his retirement began at least nine minutes earlier than it should have done.
Goal of the Day
Fabio Grosso - such coolness under pressure
Trezeguet’s miss meant that as Grosso stepped up for the long walk from the half-way line the world was in his hands. A no-nonsense left-foot strike into the right-hand corner of the net underlined the contribution the Palermo defender has made to the Italian cause this past month. After a gap of 24 years they were world champions once more.
FIFA World Ranking
Copyright © 2006 FIFA. All rights reserved.
FIFA World Ranking : Moment of the Day
Mauro Camoranesi consoles David Trezeguet There was irony in the failure of Trezeguet whose penalty – France's second - crashed against the crossbar and refused to cross the line. It was Trezeguet who struck the Golden Goal when the sides met in the final of UEFA EURO 2000 and left a scar that Italy had waited six long years to heal.
Trezeguet's pain now mirrored that of the famed Italians, Franco Baresi and Roberto Baggio, who had missed in 1994 and handed the FIFA World Cup to Brazil in the first, and hitherto only, penalty shoot-out in the Final. At the end his Juventus team-mate Mauro Camoranesi went to him and hugged him in sympathy.
What a start we had with Thierry Henry’s first touch resulting in a heavy collision with Cannavaro. As he lay prostrate France wondered if their hopes were about to be stilled as well. The stretcher was called but their three-goal marksman was able to continue.
Henry’s next involvement was to head on Fabien Barthez’s long kick, prompting Florent Malouda to accelerate into the heart of the Italian rearguard where Materazzi brought him down. Zidane’s seventh-minute penalty was nonchalant, a featherweight chip coming down off the underside bar and only just over the line.
At a stroke Zidane joined the list of players to have scored in more than one FIFA World Cup Final - a list that also includes Pele, Vava and Paul Breitner.
FIFA World Ranking
Copyright © 2006 FIFA. All rights reserved.
Trezeguet's pain now mirrored that of the famed Italians, Franco Baresi and Roberto Baggio, who had missed in 1994 and handed the FIFA World Cup to Brazil in the first, and hitherto only, penalty shoot-out in the Final. At the end his Juventus team-mate Mauro Camoranesi went to him and hugged him in sympathy.
What a start we had with Thierry Henry’s first touch resulting in a heavy collision with Cannavaro. As he lay prostrate France wondered if their hopes were about to be stilled as well. The stretcher was called but their three-goal marksman was able to continue.
Henry’s next involvement was to head on Fabien Barthez’s long kick, prompting Florent Malouda to accelerate into the heart of the Italian rearguard where Materazzi brought him down. Zidane’s seventh-minute penalty was nonchalant, a featherweight chip coming down off the underside bar and only just over the line.
At a stroke Zidane joined the list of players to have scored in more than one FIFA World Cup Final - a list that also includes Pele, Vava and Paul Breitner.
FIFA World Ranking
Copyright © 2006 FIFA. All rights reserved.
FIFA World Ranking : Italy hold their nerve to claim fourth crown
THE FINAL DAY REPLAYED: Fabio Cannavaro, a player who has belied his diminutive stature with some giant performances this past month, fittingly closed the 2006 FIFA World Cup™ by holding the biggest prize in football aloft. Fireworks proclaiming a fourth FIFA World Cup for Italy exploded into the black skies above the Olympiastadion as the Azzurri party began, leaving France – and a disconsolate Zinedine Zidane – to their own thoughts.
What an occasion the 18th Final produced with excitement at the start and incredible drama at the end as Zidane, on his farewell to the game he has dignified for so long with his graceful skill, was shown the red card. On it went to a penalty showdown and five unerring Italian spot-kicks delivered them the title of world champions, with David Trezeguet the luckless player to miss. With Fabio Grosso converting, his country edged one Trophy behind Brazil in the pantheon of FIFA World Cup winners.
Zidane will remember this night for as long as he lives. France had promised to repeat their success of 1998 for their retiring captain and only he will know what possessed him when he thrust his forehead into the chest of Marco Materazzi. Zidane had to go, accompanied down the tunnel by the glare of thousands and thousands of flash bulbs and the tears of the legions of French supporters.
“Allez les Blues” they had chorused again and again. The Blues came through all right but it was the blue of Italy that held sway. France were wearing white but what colour they added to the occasion with their stirring comeback after Marcello Lippi’s side had threatened to put a stranglehold on the game.
Copyright © 2006 FIFA. All rights reserved.
What an occasion the 18th Final produced with excitement at the start and incredible drama at the end as Zidane, on his farewell to the game he has dignified for so long with his graceful skill, was shown the red card. On it went to a penalty showdown and five unerring Italian spot-kicks delivered them the title of world champions, with David Trezeguet the luckless player to miss. With Fabio Grosso converting, his country edged one Trophy behind Brazil in the pantheon of FIFA World Cup winners.
Zidane will remember this night for as long as he lives. France had promised to repeat their success of 1998 for their retiring captain and only he will know what possessed him when he thrust his forehead into the chest of Marco Materazzi. Zidane had to go, accompanied down the tunnel by the glare of thousands and thousands of flash bulbs and the tears of the legions of French supporters.
“Allez les Blues” they had chorused again and again. The Blues came through all right but it was the blue of Italy that held sway. France were wearing white but what colour they added to the occasion with their stirring comeback after Marcello Lippi’s side had threatened to put a stranglehold on the game.
Copyright © 2006 FIFA. All rights reserved.
Monday, August 28, 2006
FIFA World Ranking : Brazil named World's Best team by FIFA
Zurich, Switzerland (Sports Network) - At the FIFA World Player Gala in Madrid on December 17, in addition to honoring the three top male and female players of the year, FIFA will once again recognize the outstanding achievements of national teams in the FIFA/Coca-Cola World Ranking.
This year’s FIFA/Coca-Cola World Ranking team awards go to World Champions Brazil (Team of the Year) and Senegal (Mover of the Year) -- one of the surprise packages at the 2002 FIFA World Cup.
As well as winning this year’s FIFA World Cup, the Seleçao have also regained top spot in the world ranking from France and built a clear lead ahead of the chasing pack. Brazil were also named Team of the Year from 1994 to 1999.
Meanwhile, the West Africans, who made it to the last eight at the 2002 FIFA World Cup finals, thus propelling them into the world’s top 30 teams, have gained no less than 100 points (and 40 ranking places) in the last year -- more than any other team at this level. Senegal are the third African winners of the FIFA Mover of the Year title, after South Africa in 1996 and Nigeria in 1999.
The gala will also see the presentation of the FIFA Fair Play Award. This year, the prize will be shared by the football communities of Korea and Japan. With their infectious exuberance, abundant enthusiasm, warm hospitality and above all their extremely fair and amicable conduct, the football fans of the two host nations played a pivotal role in the overwhelming success of the 2002 FIFA World Cup.
©2006 The Sports Network. All Rights Reserved.
This year’s FIFA/Coca-Cola World Ranking team awards go to World Champions Brazil (Team of the Year) and Senegal (Mover of the Year) -- one of the surprise packages at the 2002 FIFA World Cup.
As well as winning this year’s FIFA World Cup, the Seleçao have also regained top spot in the world ranking from France and built a clear lead ahead of the chasing pack. Brazil were also named Team of the Year from 1994 to 1999.
Meanwhile, the West Africans, who made it to the last eight at the 2002 FIFA World Cup finals, thus propelling them into the world’s top 30 teams, have gained no less than 100 points (and 40 ranking places) in the last year -- more than any other team at this level. Senegal are the third African winners of the FIFA Mover of the Year title, after South Africa in 1996 and Nigeria in 1999.
The gala will also see the presentation of the FIFA Fair Play Award. This year, the prize will be shared by the football communities of Korea and Japan. With their infectious exuberance, abundant enthusiasm, warm hospitality and above all their extremely fair and amicable conduct, the football fans of the two host nations played a pivotal role in the overwhelming success of the 2002 FIFA World Cup.
©2006 The Sports Network. All Rights Reserved.
FIFA World Ranking : Iran move up 2 spots
With only 24 'A' international matches played in the past month, August's FIFA/Coca-Cola World Ranking sees no change in the top 15. Brazil lead, with Italy (2nd), Argentina (3rd), France (4th) and England (5th) completing the top 5.
FIFA
Noticeable changes occur further down the ranking; Mexico (16th, up 2) make their mark as top CONCACAF team, whilst rivals USA fall seven places to 23rd. Several other teams from the North and Central American and Caribbean region also slide down the ranking, namely Honduras (81st, down 43), Canada (82nd, down 28) and Panama (98th, down 39), mainly due to the devaluation of significant 2005 Gold Cup matches in the calculation over the past few weeks.
Teams making a welcome return to the top 50 are Norway (49th, up 3) and Guatemala (50th, up 3), the Central Americans marking their best ever ranking position this month. Other noteworthy winners in August, climbing more than ten places, are Qatar (64th, up 12), Guyana (120th, up 11), Namibia (137th, up 30) and the Dominican Republic (171st, up 15).
The revised ranking calculation, introduced for the first time in July 2006, has led to more movement in the ranking table. Key factors having an effect include the reduction in time period evaluated from eight years to four, the weighting of point-laden FIFA World Cup™ matches and the more intense devaluation rate of matches that are more than a year old.
© 1997-2006 Iran Sports Press
FIFA
Noticeable changes occur further down the ranking; Mexico (16th, up 2) make their mark as top CONCACAF team, whilst rivals USA fall seven places to 23rd. Several other teams from the North and Central American and Caribbean region also slide down the ranking, namely Honduras (81st, down 43), Canada (82nd, down 28) and Panama (98th, down 39), mainly due to the devaluation of significant 2005 Gold Cup matches in the calculation over the past few weeks.
Teams making a welcome return to the top 50 are Norway (49th, up 3) and Guatemala (50th, up 3), the Central Americans marking their best ever ranking position this month. Other noteworthy winners in August, climbing more than ten places, are Qatar (64th, up 12), Guyana (120th, up 11), Namibia (137th, up 30) and the Dominican Republic (171st, up 15).
The revised ranking calculation, introduced for the first time in July 2006, has led to more movement in the ranking table. Key factors having an effect include the reduction in time period evaluated from eight years to four, the weighting of point-laden FIFA World Cup™ matches and the more intense devaluation rate of matches that are more than a year old.
© 1997-2006 Iran Sports Press
FIFA World Ranking : FIFA/Coca-Cola World Ranking
For some nations, moving up the FIFA/Coca-Cola World Ranking to position number 171 would be of little significance. But for all those working to help the beautiful game grow in the Dominican Republic, the news is encouraging, particularly for those dreaming of one day seeing their beloved Quisqueyanos at the finals of a FIFA World Cup™.
The President of the Dominican Football Federation (DFF), Osiris Guzmán, has said on numerous occasions: "If Haiti can reach the World Cup, then we can too." It was thus in 2004, after the national team had crashed out of the qualifiers for Germany 2006 at the hands of eventual finalists Trinidad and Tobago, that Guzmán laid the foundation stone of a ten-year plan aimed at qualifying for the 2014 FIFA World Cup.
Teething troubles
One of the main problems with football in the Caribbean nation is that it is a relatively new sport and still to flourish at grassroots level. With the DFF founded as recently as 1953 and only affiliated to FIFA in 1959, it was not until 1965 that football reached the schools and playing grounds of the Dominican Republic, thanks in the main to the efforts of Fortunato Quispe Mendoza. From an infrastructure standpoint, it was also Mendoza who established the various playing categories and set up the country's first division championship.
In spite of these efforts, today football remains the country's fifth most popular sport. As well as being a relatively new discipline for the Dominicans, efforts to nurture the sport have not been helped by the lack of success of the national team, who have still to qualify for any tournament of significance at either senior or youth level, and a national league that struggles to attract a viewing audience or fan base.
The sport that enjoys huge popular appeal is baseball, unsurprising given that more than a hundred Dominican peloteros are presently lighting up the Big Leagues in the USA. After that comes basketball, volleyball, athletics, and only then football. "Although that's the reality," says Guzmán, "in Venezuela, another country with a huge baseball culture, football has made inroads. I believe it will happen here too."
Support and encouraging signs
Local officials, working tirelessly to accelerate the growth of football in the Dominican Republic, have found an ally and helping hand in FIFA. In 2005, under the auspices of FIFA's Com-Unity Programme, delegates agreed on the need for better marketing and communication initiatives to develop the sport. Speaking at the time, Guzmán said: "This (programme) will mark a watershed in the history of our football."
Early signs of progress can be seen in the development of the national U-20 side, who have just qualified for the second phase of the CONCACAF qualifying tournament for the FIFA U-20 World Cup to be held in Canada next year. Particularly impressive have been Kerbi Rodríguez and Jonathan Fana, two talented youngsters with bright futures. Unfortunately, the team's success has generated little interest in the local media.
Current national team coach Ljubomir Crnokrak is also aware of what the sport is up against. "It's clear that we lack financial resources, but these youngsters have real quality. The potential for Dominican football is enormous. Yet for all of that, the papers give us no coverage. Even one or two lines a week would be an additional motivation for the players," said the Croat.
Despite a lack of friendlies, the Quisqueyanos are confidently looking ahead to the Copa Caribe Digicel 2007, which serves as the qualifying tournament for the CONCACAF Gold Cup USA 2007. In their first-round Group C games, scheduled for 26-30 September, the team will take on Bermuda (160th in the rankings), the British Virgin Islands (167th) and the US Virgin Islands (193rd). To keep their qualifying dreams alive, they must finish among the top two. Long term, though, their goal remains a historic first appearance at the 2014 FIFA World Cup.
© 2002-2005 NoticiasB2B, S.L.
The President of the Dominican Football Federation (DFF), Osiris Guzmán, has said on numerous occasions: "If Haiti can reach the World Cup, then we can too." It was thus in 2004, after the national team had crashed out of the qualifiers for Germany 2006 at the hands of eventual finalists Trinidad and Tobago, that Guzmán laid the foundation stone of a ten-year plan aimed at qualifying for the 2014 FIFA World Cup.
Teething troubles
One of the main problems with football in the Caribbean nation is that it is a relatively new sport and still to flourish at grassroots level. With the DFF founded as recently as 1953 and only affiliated to FIFA in 1959, it was not until 1965 that football reached the schools and playing grounds of the Dominican Republic, thanks in the main to the efforts of Fortunato Quispe Mendoza. From an infrastructure standpoint, it was also Mendoza who established the various playing categories and set up the country's first division championship.
In spite of these efforts, today football remains the country's fifth most popular sport. As well as being a relatively new discipline for the Dominicans, efforts to nurture the sport have not been helped by the lack of success of the national team, who have still to qualify for any tournament of significance at either senior or youth level, and a national league that struggles to attract a viewing audience or fan base.
The sport that enjoys huge popular appeal is baseball, unsurprising given that more than a hundred Dominican peloteros are presently lighting up the Big Leagues in the USA. After that comes basketball, volleyball, athletics, and only then football. "Although that's the reality," says Guzmán, "in Venezuela, another country with a huge baseball culture, football has made inroads. I believe it will happen here too."
Support and encouraging signs
Local officials, working tirelessly to accelerate the growth of football in the Dominican Republic, have found an ally and helping hand in FIFA. In 2005, under the auspices of FIFA's Com-Unity Programme, delegates agreed on the need for better marketing and communication initiatives to develop the sport. Speaking at the time, Guzmán said: "This (programme) will mark a watershed in the history of our football."
Early signs of progress can be seen in the development of the national U-20 side, who have just qualified for the second phase of the CONCACAF qualifying tournament for the FIFA U-20 World Cup to be held in Canada next year. Particularly impressive have been Kerbi Rodríguez and Jonathan Fana, two talented youngsters with bright futures. Unfortunately, the team's success has generated little interest in the local media.
Current national team coach Ljubomir Crnokrak is also aware of what the sport is up against. "It's clear that we lack financial resources, but these youngsters have real quality. The potential for Dominican football is enormous. Yet for all of that, the papers give us no coverage. Even one or two lines a week would be an additional motivation for the players," said the Croat.
Despite a lack of friendlies, the Quisqueyanos are confidently looking ahead to the Copa Caribe Digicel 2007, which serves as the qualifying tournament for the CONCACAF Gold Cup USA 2007. In their first-round Group C games, scheduled for 26-30 September, the team will take on Bermuda (160th in the rankings), the British Virgin Islands (167th) and the US Virgin Islands (193rd). To keep their qualifying dreams alive, they must finish among the top two. Long term, though, their goal remains a historic first appearance at the 2014 FIFA World Cup.
© 2002-2005 NoticiasB2B, S.L.
Friday, August 18, 2006
FIFA World Ranking : Biography of Pele
Pele was the greatest soccer player ever, scoring over 1200 goals in a glittering career that also brought World Cup and World Club Championships. The biography of Pele is a tough act to follow for any modern world cup players !
When soccer fans talk about the greatest player of all time you will debate the skills of Pele, Maradona, Best and some other soccer legends but can anyone match the amazing biography of Pele ? Pele scored an amazing 1281 goals in a career that covered 1360 games ! That is nearly an average of one goal per game !
History of Pele
Pele was a nickname from childhood as the Brazilian soccer star's real name was Edson Arantes do Nascimento, the nickname originated from school . Pele was the youngest player ever to win a soccer world cup winners medal when Brazil won the 1958 world cup as a 17 year old. Pele scored 2 goals in the world cup final at the age of 17 , an achivement that is unlikely to be matched ever in world cup history.
Pele was brought up in a poor part of Brazil and was guided by his father who was also a professional soccer player, his father once scored five headed goals in the one match ! . Pele played for Santos of Brazil and was part of the winning 1962 and 1963 Inter Continential championship winning squad ( World Club Championship ) .
Pele was also part of the 1962 world cup winning squad but injury hampered his appearances and this was also the case in the 1966 England world cup as some brutal tactics put him out of the tournament and Brazil also failed to retain their trophy.
Brazil 1970 World Cup winners
However the 1970 world cup in Mexico will always be a special memory for Pele fans as he inspired Brazil to a famous victory. The 1970 world cup was a festival of football with a Brazil team that was a joy to watch. Even many years on you will still see the famous Pele video clips and goals as he sold the keeper that famous " dummy" and also scored with a brilliant header in the 1970 world cup final against Italy. Pele later went on to confirm that this was a special goal as it was also Brazil's 100th world cup goal.
Pele retired from international football but made a comeback to sign a money spinning contract with the New York Cosmos in the American soccer league. Pele was part of the 1977 championship winning side and the average crowds increased by over 80% in the few years that he graced the American soccer scene.
If you study the biography of Pele and watch Pele video clips and goals you will no doubt agree that he was a soccer genius, he could play with either foot and could spring in the air to score headers despite his small size compared to defenders. pele was quick, strong and one of the very best goalscorers.
FIFA World Ranking
By Kevin McNally
When soccer fans talk about the greatest player of all time you will debate the skills of Pele, Maradona, Best and some other soccer legends but can anyone match the amazing biography of Pele ? Pele scored an amazing 1281 goals in a career that covered 1360 games ! That is nearly an average of one goal per game !
History of Pele
Pele was a nickname from childhood as the Brazilian soccer star's real name was Edson Arantes do Nascimento, the nickname originated from school . Pele was the youngest player ever to win a soccer world cup winners medal when Brazil won the 1958 world cup as a 17 year old. Pele scored 2 goals in the world cup final at the age of 17 , an achivement that is unlikely to be matched ever in world cup history.
Pele was brought up in a poor part of Brazil and was guided by his father who was also a professional soccer player, his father once scored five headed goals in the one match ! . Pele played for Santos of Brazil and was part of the winning 1962 and 1963 Inter Continential championship winning squad ( World Club Championship ) .
Pele was also part of the 1962 world cup winning squad but injury hampered his appearances and this was also the case in the 1966 England world cup as some brutal tactics put him out of the tournament and Brazil also failed to retain their trophy.
Brazil 1970 World Cup winners
However the 1970 world cup in Mexico will always be a special memory for Pele fans as he inspired Brazil to a famous victory. The 1970 world cup was a festival of football with a Brazil team that was a joy to watch. Even many years on you will still see the famous Pele video clips and goals as he sold the keeper that famous " dummy" and also scored with a brilliant header in the 1970 world cup final against Italy. Pele later went on to confirm that this was a special goal as it was also Brazil's 100th world cup goal.
Pele retired from international football but made a comeback to sign a money spinning contract with the New York Cosmos in the American soccer league. Pele was part of the 1977 championship winning side and the average crowds increased by over 80% in the few years that he graced the American soccer scene.
If you study the biography of Pele and watch Pele video clips and goals you will no doubt agree that he was a soccer genius, he could play with either foot and could spring in the air to score headers despite his small size compared to defenders. pele was quick, strong and one of the very best goalscorers.
FIFA World Ranking
By Kevin McNally
FIFA World Ranking : The All Time Greatest Soccer Player
The sport of soccer, known as football to most of the world, has produced some great soccer players over the past years. Perhaps the most famous of all is Pelé, who amazed the world with his incredible ability to maneuver the ball in a way it hadn’t been done before. Pelé retired more than twenty five years ago but he is still a household name on the lips of soccer players and fans around the world. His story of rising from poverty in Brazil to soccer superstar is a source of inspiration for young soccer players everywhere.
Another soccer great is Pavel Nedved. Pavel is well known both in his homeland of the Czech Republic and around the world as one of the youngest soccer players of all time to make a lasting impression. Pavel played for Sparta in the 1990’s and scored many goals for the team from 1992 to 1995.
The world has seen many players who have been the focus of extreme soccer skills, but none so well known as Zinedine Zidane. Zidane was born in Algeria in 1972 and after struggling in school for several years he decided that soccer was his main interest. He was spotted at the age of sixteen by a soccer scout and very quickly found himself in Cannes. Shortly after that Zidane was playing for the French Division, scoring goal after goal and becoming the star of the team.
Today one of the most popular soccer players is David Beckham, who is the star of Great Britain when it comes to the game. At sixteen Beckham was playing for Manchester United team and was already attracting the attention of soccer scouts around the world. Beckham’s incredible talent found him on England’s World Cup Team in 1997. His handsome looks and boyish attitude make him one of Britain’s favorite celebrities.
The world of soccer continues to give us up and coming stars, but none can ever rival the status that the above players have earned.
FIFA World Ranking
By James Hunt
Another soccer great is Pavel Nedved. Pavel is well known both in his homeland of the Czech Republic and around the world as one of the youngest soccer players of all time to make a lasting impression. Pavel played for Sparta in the 1990’s and scored many goals for the team from 1992 to 1995.
The world has seen many players who have been the focus of extreme soccer skills, but none so well known as Zinedine Zidane. Zidane was born in Algeria in 1972 and after struggling in school for several years he decided that soccer was his main interest. He was spotted at the age of sixteen by a soccer scout and very quickly found himself in Cannes. Shortly after that Zidane was playing for the French Division, scoring goal after goal and becoming the star of the team.
Today one of the most popular soccer players is David Beckham, who is the star of Great Britain when it comes to the game. At sixteen Beckham was playing for Manchester United team and was already attracting the attention of soccer scouts around the world. Beckham’s incredible talent found him on England’s World Cup Team in 1997. His handsome looks and boyish attitude make him one of Britain’s favorite celebrities.
The world of soccer continues to give us up and coming stars, but none can ever rival the status that the above players have earned.
FIFA World Ranking
By James Hunt
FIFA World Ranking : Ronaldinho the Soccer Player
As the soccer world cup approaches every fan is looking forward to watching the genius knowns as Ronaldinho the soccer player.
Every young boy dreams to be as good as Ronaldinho the soccer player. Ronaldinho is the best player in the world and plays soccer with a smile on his face !
Ronaldinho the soccer player is known as the best soccer player in the world. Ronaldinho video clips and soccer tricks are being sent online as soccer fans marvel at his skills.
History of Ronaldinho
Ronaldinho the soccer player became known as " little Ronaldo " in Portugese in order to distinguish himself from the other famous Brazilian, Ronaldo. Ronaldinho's real name is actually Ronaldo de Assis Moreira and he is widely known as Ronaldinho Gaúcho in his native Brazil.
In his childhood Ronaldinho the soccer player was a star at Futsol and beach soccer and he then moved onto Brazilian club Gremio before moving to Paris SG.
His performance as part of the winning Brazil World cup squad in 2002 attracted the interest of bigger clubs and he moved on to FC Barcelona for £18 million.
Ronaldinho Profile
Club Awards
Spanish La Liga: 2004-05 , 2005-06
Champions League 2005-06
Spanish Super Cup: 2005-06 with Barcelona
International Awards
Under-17 World Cup 1996-97
Copa America: 1998-99 2004-05
FIFA World Cup: 2002
Confederations Cup: 2004-05
Ronaldinho has also won many individual awards including World player of the year and European footballer of the year.
When you watch Ronaldinho movie and video clips you will be amazed at the skill, even his official adverts for Nike are a joy to watch !
Some soccer players earn the respect of opposition fans and Ronaldinho scored two brilliant individual goals for Barcelona away to their closest rivals Real Madrid and the Madrid fans saluted Ronaldinho with a standing ovation despite Real Madrid suffering a 3-0 defeat.
The profile of Ronaldinho is impressive and there is no doubt that Ronaldinho the soccer player will be regarded as one of the greatest ever.
FIFA World Ranking player
By Kevin McNally
Every young boy dreams to be as good as Ronaldinho the soccer player. Ronaldinho is the best player in the world and plays soccer with a smile on his face !
Ronaldinho the soccer player is known as the best soccer player in the world. Ronaldinho video clips and soccer tricks are being sent online as soccer fans marvel at his skills.
History of Ronaldinho
Ronaldinho the soccer player became known as " little Ronaldo " in Portugese in order to distinguish himself from the other famous Brazilian, Ronaldo. Ronaldinho's real name is actually Ronaldo de Assis Moreira and he is widely known as Ronaldinho Gaúcho in his native Brazil.
In his childhood Ronaldinho the soccer player was a star at Futsol and beach soccer and he then moved onto Brazilian club Gremio before moving to Paris SG.
His performance as part of the winning Brazil World cup squad in 2002 attracted the interest of bigger clubs and he moved on to FC Barcelona for £18 million.
Ronaldinho Profile
Club Awards
Spanish La Liga: 2004-05 , 2005-06
Champions League 2005-06
Spanish Super Cup: 2005-06 with Barcelona
International Awards
Under-17 World Cup 1996-97
Copa America: 1998-99 2004-05
FIFA World Cup: 2002
Confederations Cup: 2004-05
Ronaldinho has also won many individual awards including World player of the year and European footballer of the year.
When you watch Ronaldinho movie and video clips you will be amazed at the skill, even his official adverts for Nike are a joy to watch !
Some soccer players earn the respect of opposition fans and Ronaldinho scored two brilliant individual goals for Barcelona away to their closest rivals Real Madrid and the Madrid fans saluted Ronaldinho with a standing ovation despite Real Madrid suffering a 3-0 defeat.
The profile of Ronaldinho is impressive and there is no doubt that Ronaldinho the soccer player will be regarded as one of the greatest ever.
FIFA World Ranking player
By Kevin McNally
Sunday, August 13, 2006
FIFA World Ranking : Portugal have cause for pride
As everyone in football knows, two games do not make or break a team and so it has proved with Luiz Felipe Scolari's Portugal.
After a glorious FIFA World Cup™ campaign, a semi-final defeat by France and a 3-0 reverse against hosts Germany left the Portuguese in fourth place and still waiting for that elusive first Final appearance. A sad homecoming would follow, you might think, but not a bit of it, as the rapturous reception afforded Scolari's returning heroes made only too clear.
Pride and patriotic fervour were the order of the day in Lisbon as the players made their way to the National Stadium to the acclaim of thousands of supporters who lined the streets of the country’s capital. Inside, each of the Portugal players came forward to receive his own personal ovation and the gratitude of the nation.
For the coach, however, the crowd reserved a special request. “Stay, stay,” they chanted, urging the Brazilian to extend his contract. Their pleas may not be in vain since, according to speculation in the media, Felipão could be ready to sign on for two more years at the helm of his adopted country.
For his part, Scolari told his adoring public that the national team could produce an even better showing in four years’ time. But it was the present, not the future, that the crowd wanted to enjoy. “Champions, champions, we are the champions,” they sang. And to an extent, they were, in terms of their endeavour, their determination, and their sheer will to win.
Nobody could have predicted just how far Portugal would go as they set about negotiating Group D in early June. In their opening fixture, a game of huge historical significance against their former colony Angola, it took a goal from Pauleta to seal the points and hand the Palancas Negras their only defeat of the tournament. Scolari’s men then guaranteed qualification for the knockout stages with a comfortable 2-0 win against Iran, and a 100 per cent record was sealed with a 2-1 victory over a dangerous Mexico side.
But fate had conspired to hand Portugal a potentially tough passage through to the semi-finals. Next they faced the Netherlands in the Round of 16. A fiery encounter was settled by a wonder goal from midfield star Maniche, as two players from each side were dismissed. Another familiar old foe in the shape of Sven-Goran Eriksson’s England lay in wait in the quarter-finals, just two years on from their meeting at the same stage of UEFA EURO 2004.
Once again, there was little to separate the sides, and the penalty shoot-out lottery beckoned. As in Lisbon two years earlier, charismatic goalkeeper Ricardo again emerged the Portuguese hero, saving three English spot-kicks as he put his country through to their first FIFA World Cup semi-final for 40 years.
Portugal are now FIFA World Ranking number 8
Copyright © 2006 FIFA. All rights reserved.
After a glorious FIFA World Cup™ campaign, a semi-final defeat by France and a 3-0 reverse against hosts Germany left the Portuguese in fourth place and still waiting for that elusive first Final appearance. A sad homecoming would follow, you might think, but not a bit of it, as the rapturous reception afforded Scolari's returning heroes made only too clear.
Pride and patriotic fervour were the order of the day in Lisbon as the players made their way to the National Stadium to the acclaim of thousands of supporters who lined the streets of the country’s capital. Inside, each of the Portugal players came forward to receive his own personal ovation and the gratitude of the nation.
For the coach, however, the crowd reserved a special request. “Stay, stay,” they chanted, urging the Brazilian to extend his contract. Their pleas may not be in vain since, according to speculation in the media, Felipão could be ready to sign on for two more years at the helm of his adopted country.
For his part, Scolari told his adoring public that the national team could produce an even better showing in four years’ time. But it was the present, not the future, that the crowd wanted to enjoy. “Champions, champions, we are the champions,” they sang. And to an extent, they were, in terms of their endeavour, their determination, and their sheer will to win.
Nobody could have predicted just how far Portugal would go as they set about negotiating Group D in early June. In their opening fixture, a game of huge historical significance against their former colony Angola, it took a goal from Pauleta to seal the points and hand the Palancas Negras their only defeat of the tournament. Scolari’s men then guaranteed qualification for the knockout stages with a comfortable 2-0 win against Iran, and a 100 per cent record was sealed with a 2-1 victory over a dangerous Mexico side.
But fate had conspired to hand Portugal a potentially tough passage through to the semi-finals. Next they faced the Netherlands in the Round of 16. A fiery encounter was settled by a wonder goal from midfield star Maniche, as two players from each side were dismissed. Another familiar old foe in the shape of Sven-Goran Eriksson’s England lay in wait in the quarter-finals, just two years on from their meeting at the same stage of UEFA EURO 2004.
Once again, there was little to separate the sides, and the penalty shoot-out lottery beckoned. As in Lisbon two years earlier, charismatic goalkeeper Ricardo again emerged the Portuguese hero, saving three English spot-kicks as he put his country through to their first FIFA World Cup semi-final for 40 years.
Portugal are now FIFA World Ranking number 8
Copyright © 2006 FIFA. All rights reserved.
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